William Spoelstra ( 9 or 11 years) abt 1915-1924

SPOELSTRA

Posted By: Mary Lou Verburg - Volunteer (email)
Date: 1/16/2014 at 18:35:10

William "Willie" the 9 or 11 year-old son of Mrs. Hattie Spoelstra of Hospers, who was run over by a tractor April 28th died from the results of the accident the following morning.
Gerrit Mouw was driving the tractor and the boy attempted to climb on the drivers platform to get a ride. In doing so he was caught on the lugs of the wheel and pulled under the fender breaking 6 bones of his left leg and the right leg was broken in two places, also he was injured internally. Nurse Vander Weerf and several neighbors assisted to make the lad as comfortable as possible.The boy lived through the dressing of the wounds. At 11:30 the lad was conscious and recognized Dr. Galman and he died at 3 a.m. Mr. Mouw had warned the children to stay away from the machine before the accident happened. The tractor was used to drag the streets of the town. No blame is placed on the driver of the tractor.
He is survived by his widowed mother, who's husband had deserted her and other family, about six years ago when they lived in Minnesota. William is also survived by his two brothers and two sisters. William was one of a pair of twins.
Little Effie is his twin.
Mrs. Spoelstra has our heartfelt sympathy in her hour of sorrow.

Source: Hawarden Independent and Ireton Ledger May 8 and May 15 1924