WITT, Charley William: Died 1914

WITT

Posted By: Volunteer: Sherri
Date: 10/12/2016 at 22:45:59

**Handwritten: St. Line Dem. Sat. 27 June 1914

VAN BUREN CO. BOY DROWNS
Charley Witt Loses Life While Swimming In Watkin's Pond.

Charley Witt, the 15 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. John Witt, residing in the vicinity of Center Chapel, was drowned about 2 o'clock Sunday afternoon in a pond on the Watkins farm, about three miles south of town. He had gone to Andy Duvall's, who resides on this farm, and in company with two smaller boys and Isky Duvall, older, they went to the pond, which in places is very deep. Young Witt started to cross the pond. He had not gone far when he called for help, which was summoned immediately. It is supposed he began to cramp. Young Duvall, not being a strong swimmer, could not render much aid, but he did all he possibly could.

Help went out from town and Logan Neis, after repeated efforts, found and brought the body to shore.

Witt had been working this season for Will Regur, where by his kind and willing disposition he proved himself of valuable service.

Charley William Witt, the oldest son of John and Lizzie Witt, was born near Berea, Kentucky, Nov. 15, 1898, and died June 21, 1914, being 15 years 7 months and 6 days.

At the age of 6 years, Charley came with his parents to Van Buren county to live and they have resided near Keosauqua during the nine years.

Funeral services were held at the home Monday afternoon, being conducted by H.L. Lewis, pastor of the Christian church. Interment was made in the Fellows cemetery.

Source: Van Buren Co. Genealogical Society Obituary Book G, Page 238, Keosauqua Public Library, Keosauqua, IA