This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: cathabes1 Surnames: Classification: death Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.vermont.counties.rutland/4819/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Boston Globe Oct 21, 1888 Deacon Putnam's Death Falls Dead on the Stage During a Church Entertainment Rutland. Vt., Oct 20 - Deacon John R. Putnam died instantly while taking part in a harvest home festival at the Universalist church. He was impersonating Farmer John, and was the central figure in a large gathering of young men and maidens representing the extensive family of a farmer of the olden times. The gayly-costumed children had just finished a lively chorus. He responded in a song he had remembered from his boyhood days. Responding to an encore, he was telling a story, when he stopped suddenly, staggered a moment, and then fell dead. He was 77 years old. Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.