Alex Swanson, Obituary/Death NoticePorter County obituaries and death notices . . . .
Alex Swanson
FATAL ACCIDENT.
A Lake Shore Freight Train Ends the Life of Alex Swanson.
Last Wednesday about fifteen minutes to nine o'clock the station men at the Lake Shore depot, at this place, were notified by some trainmen that a dead man lay on the track between here and Porter. The body was brought to the freight house and identified as the remains of Alex Swanson, better known as "Pullman," a young man living at Porter. Previous to his death Swanson had been in Chesterton, and during the day drank some, but was not supposed to be drunk. He started for home about seven o'clock in the evening, and jumped a freight going west at this place. It seems that he attempted to ride on the bumpers, and when just beyond the organ factory, he fell between the cars, and was cut to pieces. His death must have been almost instantaneous for the car wheels passed over his body and legs, crushing him. The Coroner was notified, and held an inquest on the following day, giving as his verdict, "Accidental death." The remains were taken to August Strans' at Hageman, where the unfortunate man boarded, where they were washed, dressed, and prepared for burial. The young men, who had been Swanson's associates, determined to see him buried decently, and raised money among themselves to buy him a neat coffin. The funeral services were preached by Rev. Simpson at Stran's house, after which they were escorted to the grave by a large procession of friends.
Alex Swanson was a young man about 28 years of age, born in Sweden, and coming to America about five years ago. He worked in New York State about a year, and then came to Chesterton, working on the brick yards ever since. He was well liked by all who knew him, and his sad end is regretted by all his friends.
Newspaper: The Tribune
Date of Publication: February 12, 1885
Volume Number: 1
Issue Number: 46
Page: 1
Column(s): 2
Key to Newspaper Publication Locations:
Newspapers Published in Chesterton, Porter County, Indiana
Chesterton Tribune
The Tribune
Westchester Tribune
Newspapers Published in Valparaiso, Porter County, Indiana
Porter County Vidette
Practical Observer
Valparaiso Practical Observer
Vidette and Republic
Western Ranger
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Obituary/death notice transcribed by Steven R. Shook