Case of Robert Spriggs-1870

SPRIGGS

Posted By: CHERYL MOONEN (email)
Date: 6/18/2018 at 13:25:11

Dubuque Daily Times, Sunday, Nov 13, 1870, Dubuque, IA, Page: 1

Nothing could be sadder than the case of Robert Spriggs, of Vandalia, Jasper County. Two years ago he became insane, and growing more and more dangerous, finally killed his mother. He was sent to the Asylum at Mt. Pleasant, where after several months treatment, he recovered, and went home to his family. For a year he has been an industrious workman, and a good husband and father. Two weeks ago his old trouble reappeared; and he threatened all his family with death. Of course there was no safety except to take him again to the Asylum. He knew that it was best for him to go; but when the officer came for him, the poor man clung to his wife and wept in the bitterness of despair. His wife was scarcely less moved. His child too had to be taken from him by force, as the little fellow insisted on accompanying his father.