The Vermont Tribune, Ludlow, Friday, July 26, 1889 North Sherburne 7/26/1889 The farmers are much discouraged over the weather and scarcity of help. Ira SHAW, who was taken sick at his daughter's in Stockbridge, is so far recovered as to be moved to his home, but he is still under the doctor's care. Mrs. Charles LONGLEY was called to Cuttingsville, las week, by the severe illness of her father, Rev. INGALLS. Mark ESTABROOK of Boston made his brothers here a short visit, recently. Dr. MOORE and wife, of Ludlow were recently guests of Dudley ESTABROOK for a few days. The doctor held two meetings at the school-house, while here. The severe rain last week caused a great deal of damage through Pittsfield and Stockbridge. A dam giving way a short distance above GURNSEY's blacksmith-shop, nearly caused the death of five persons. Fortunately they saw the dam give out, and expecting another "Johnstown flood" rushed out in their night-clothes and soon found themselves wading in three or more feet of water. A fence giving away just as they had passed it, no doubt saved their lives; for if it had gone while they were clinging to it to help themselves along, no doubt they would have been swept into the river near by. One sick woman Mrs. Ed. BROWN, was taken from her bed and carried to a neighbor's Mr. GURNSEY had his pig pen carried away, with his pig in it; but the latter was recovered. Many bridges were washed out and buildings undermined, while much damage was done to grass. Transcribed by Ruth Barton -- Ruth Barton mrgjb@sover.net Dummerston, VT