St. Clair County Obits

JACOB C. EVANS

Osceola Sun
10 October 1878
A Fatal Accident.
On Saturday last, Jacob Evans, son of Mr. Samuel Evans, aged about nineteen years met with an accident that immediately proved fatal.
It seems that the young man was driving a water cart and in attempting to pass a team coming from the opposite direction lost his balance and fell to the ground. His head came down just under one of the wheels of the cart and was immediately crushed in by the wheel pressing over it. Death must have been instantaneous.
Jacob Evans was of exemplary moral character and the community in his death lose a most valuable member.


Osceola Sun
17 October 1878
Jacob C., son of S.M. and M.A. Evans of Butler Township, died October 5th, 1878, in the twentieth year of his age.
The circumstances which resulted in this bereavement should be published as a warning to all. On the morning of the 5th instant the deceased in company with Mr. G.A. Hillegas and others, was passing along the road in a two-horse wagon when he was overtaken by Mr. M.L. Hillegas in a buggy who attempted to drive around him, in youthful sport he contested the road with him; and in the race his horses became unmanageable and ran away, hurling the deceased from the wagon, which ran over his head and killed him instantly.
The deceased was an amiable young man, and his sudden death has cast a deep gloom over the hearts of a large circle of friends.
His remains were followed to the Mt. Zion churchyard on the 6th instant by a very large concourse of sympathizing friends.
The family has the sympathy of all.
From this mournful occurrence we should learn, 1st. Never to risk our lives nor endanger the lives of others in such hazardous sport. 2nd. To be ready at all times for that change which by the Divine appointment awaits us all.