07 Jan 1898
Page 1
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This newspaper page contains 18 articles. Subscribers can read the full text of each article.
Newspaper
Topeka State Journal
Location
Topeka, Kansas, United States of America
Date
Jan 07, 1898
Page
1
Judge Shiras and a panel of appellate judges deny the writ in the Durrant case, upholding a lower court verdict. The decision cements the legal fate of the defendant amid ongoing appeals and public interest.
Theodore Durrant was hanged at San Quentin as family and officials watched. The condemned man spoke of innocence and forgiveness, refused to react to crowd pressure, and requested prayers. Attendants, doctors, and clergy gathered, while opponents pressed for inquiry or delay but the court denied any stay.
The condemned man Dur rant chose the Catholic rite, meeting with Father Lagan as authorities prepared the final scene. Doctors and guards noted his calm demeanor, while witnesses described his orderly dress and deliberate conduct as the prison awaited the signal for the death chamber.
Washington January 7 8 Board man attorney for Durrant made an early morning trip to influence the Supreme Court. His plan was to see individual justices to obtain a signature for a writ of habeas corpus to stay proceedings. If that failed he would seek a writ of habeas corpus or prohibition before the noon session.
The parents of Theodore Durrant spent a tense night at San Quentin awaiting news from Washington as the condemned man faced the firing squad. They hoped for a miracle, watching the clock bridge time between California and the nation as the Supreme Court prepared to rule on the case.
History of the crime centers on Willam Henry Theodore Durrant who faced execution at San Quentin today after a sensational case. Convicted of one murder, public opinion linked him to Blanche Lamont and Minnie Williams, both church members, with Lamont's disappearance in 1905 and Williams found murdered in Emanuel Baptist church. Police linked Durrant to the attacks after sightings with Lamont and Williams, leading to his arrest following a late-night home visit and a positive identification as the killer by associates. The report notes Durrant’s past as a pious, industrious student and church worker, contrasting with the brutal crimes. The narrative hints at public sentiment that his death would atone for both murders. The article continues on Sixth Page.
The central Cuban relief committee appointed by President McKinley appeals for aid to suffering Cubans due to famine. Funds and matériel go to United States Consul General Leeth in Havana for distribution under his supervision. Donations should be payable to Treasurer Central Cuban Relief Committee in Temple Court New York and signed by committee leaders including F B Baretom and Charles A Schleren.
Mr John Frey son of Santa Fe general manager J J Frey leaves Topeka mid next month for Klondike. He will be joined by W H Harrah conductor on the M K & T railway from Sedalia Missouri. They expect to reach Klondike about April first and will outfit there. Frey plans to stay at least two years and may pursue mining or commercial work. He carries about 2200 in ready cash and is undaunted by Klondike hardships, citing friends there and reportedly exaggerated crossing tales.
Graham county school commissioners press State Treasurer Heflebower Opee to issue warrants for £9000 in bonds purchased at 8 cents on the dollar. The treasurer refused, citing county indebtedness over 10 percent of assessed value. A prior suit upheld the treasurer, ruling commissioners cannot force bond purchase above market price. The dispute centers on validity of taking bonds under court decision.
Former Chief of Police John M Wilkerson seeks the grave robbery reward claiming dismissal of the Lowe charge followed by grand jury indictment. County Attorney Jetmore opposes the claim as Loewe remains the only convicted individual serving an eight month sentence in Wabaunsee County Jail.
The judge set to try the Hillmon case next month is Johan F Williams though some say Foster would step in. Williams, who has presided at Hillmon before, agreed to return as the ruling authority for the upcoming proceedings despite typical reluctance.
Judge Guthrie, while leaving his office, reacts to word of his appointment with calm relief. He confirms no changes at the post office beyond improvements, vows to serve patrons efficiently, and dismisses partisan plots as unfounded as he plans his future duties.
Jo Guthrie appears before the Senate today to seek confirmation as postmaster of Topeka, facing questions on qualifications and duties. The decision will affect local mail service and federal staffing in the state capital.
Editor Frank Roberts of the Oskaloosa Independent is listed as securing a home post office. Adrian Reynolds is appointed postmaster at Sedan, Washington. The document also mentions nominations including Teddy Bennet to the Senate and various Treasury and land office roles such as Henry K Boyer supervising the Mint in Philadelphia, and a surveyor for Costonia. The list includes roles in Detroit and Para with several other officials named in a fragmented agency record.
The article outlines civil service constraints on appointments under Judge Guthrie and A. K. Rodgers as assistant postmaster, noting Likely postings for OC. P. Relmar and Noney along with a broad list of applicants. It covers Guthrie’s background, bond requirement, and a parade of names across states and offices.
Washington January debate on the civil service question yielded only a weak effort to limit the debt. Representative Gillette of Massachusetts supported the proposal as the session ended, while other members did not advance a decisive action.
The Senate opened with the attorney general's report on the estate resolution urging cabinet members to discuss possible changes in civil service administration. It notes recommendations to exempt department of Justice attorneys and deputy U S marshals from certain rules. Mr Cockrell argues recommendations should go to the President for action.
In New York City on January 7 19XX acting Police Commissioner named Me Cullagh as chief of police for the city pending formalities. The appointment places Cullagh in charge as the department prepares for upcoming operations.
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