Spirit of Democracy July 27, 1899 Sardis Theodore Coffield, a highly respected young man of this place, was drowned off the tow boat Sam Clarke at Martin's Ferry Wednesday morning, July 19th. He had accepted a position on the boat which had been tied up here during the low water. On Tuesday the boat was able to leave her moorings on the rise and Martins' Ferry was reached where the sad accident occurred. The body was recovered Friday afternoon near Moundsville, and was brought to this place where the funeral services were conducted by Rev. J.M. Goddard. The deceased was 29 years of age. He leaves a widowed mother and many relatives and friends. Among the relatives and friends who attended the funeral from a distanced were : Mrs. Rice, Hill, Collins, Aspin and Stewart, Sistersville, W.Va; Jess Coffield, Bellaire; Mrs. Kessel, Wellsville; Mrs. Williamson and children Cochransville, and Rev. J. Martin of Cadiz. Mrs. James Bowen and son John returned home Friday from Titusville, Pa., where they have been the guest of her parents. Dr. S. C. Griffith returned for Chicago Wednesday where he has been attending college. Miss Clara Litten of Wellsville, Ohio, visited her sister Della and Grandparents Sunday. Mr. and Mrs. William Berkle were visiting relatives here a few days last week. Miss Graham and Mrs. Sayre of Sistersville spent Sunday with Eva Nesbitt. Charles Hall and bride were in town Sunday the guest of his parents. Miss Leta Paden of Wheeling is visiting friends in town. Maggie Hofer is visiting at Hannibal. transcribed by Sara Richardson Kelly re: Richardson, Suter, Griffith, Nesbitt, Deiter