31 Mar 1897
Page 1
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Newspaper
Topeka State Journal
Location
Topeka, Kansas, United States of America
Date
Mar 31, 1897
Page
1
Chandler Oklahoma suffered a devastating tornado that killed forty five persons and injured about two hundred leaving only two houses standing in the town of 1500. Buildings collapsed, fires started and rain finally cooled the flames. Rescue efforts began with lines of lanterns and improvised hospitals as residents searched for survivors amid widespread destruction and missing loved ones.
A severe windstorm swept northern Kansas causing extensive damage across Harvey Sedgwick Marion and McPherson counties with shattered buildings uprooted trees and disrupted rail traffic. No fatalities reported though telegraph service statewide was crippled and several towns reported wrecked houses trains and damaged infrastructure.
Severe wind and heavy rain lashed Newton and surrounding towns, with telegraph lines down and extensive property damage suspected. In Burtton, a cloudburst-like downpour toppled freight cars and damaged yards, while residents reported shattered windows and scattered debris across the area.
A severe storm bringing heavy rain wind and hail struck Perry Oklahoma causing flooded creeks and widespread damage. Creeks exceeded banks, several homes and outbuildings were blown down between here and Stillwater. Inmates escaped to safety at White Eagle with no injuries reported. Wires were downed and power disrupted. Local farmland suffered inundation with some structures wrecked.
Report from Santa Fe offices records removals of personnel named Howard and March 21. A reference to rain and wind accompanies the entry. The text mentions movement toward the south rim of the arate and Emporia, with unclear wording and possible transcription errors.
Reports from Abilene Nickerson Emporia Chanute and Wichita describe heavy rains strong winds and telegraph wire damage. Observers in Topeka warn of possible tornado conditions while schools are urged to monitor storms and evacuate if needed.
Weather warnings issued for Missouri and especially southern regions with expected severe storms tonight. Forecasts indicate danger signals in western towns while lake regions remain safer due to cold air from the lake. Northern Illinois faces risk where lake winds do not reach.
Le Mars March 31 The severe windstorms of the past years have spurred Iowa townships to protect pupils from cyclones by building storm caves at school sites. In Fredonia and Preston townships Plymouth county boards have arranged to bulk storm caves and have advertised for bids. The caves measure twelve feet long six feet wide and four and a half feet high.
Turbulent House session marks climax of ten day tariff fight. Mc Mullin of Tennessee denounces traits as Dingley and Trailey lead opposing camps. Quorum questions arise, amendments adopted setting 2 cent per pound and April 1 effective date. Passes after tense votes and maneuvering amid gallery crowd watching.
The president sent ten nominations to the Senate, naming Treasing-Penrose A. McLean of Pennsylvania as collector of internal revenue for the state. Thomas W. Cridler of Wisconsin as U.S. attorney for the eastern district. J Mah Privhur of Arkansas as attorney for the Motted States eastern district. Couper of Arkansas as marshal. Nathan Tedomaaga of South Hor Na Po Jabaunats as agent of the Lulana agency. Albert F Couten of Navy as commander. and several postmasters including John A. Chittle Evanston Joseph Weir Rantoul IL Henry J Chesley Sutherland KP Coryrick Cerad Neb.
A vivid report describes a lightning strike hitting the state home dome last night. Sparks showered briefly as contact caused a dramatic flash, followed by a loud crash and a momentary tremor that locals will recall for years.
The Golden Rod offers a very fit linen collar and cuffs for 40 cents, all goes tomorrow at a fraction of that price. Also one box tall soap with two cakes per box for 6 cents, available tomorrow only.
The Rock Island is selling through tickets and checking baggage to the Orient and intermediate points and will continue to do so. For rates, call Rock Island passenger station at phone 254. An excellent programmer has been advanced for the Woodman benefit Thursday night.
Washington dispatches reveal Cy Leland of Kansas faced unified opposition from Senator Bly and Representatives Broderick C Curtis and others over the Ryan appointment. The Kansas delegation backed Thomas Ryan for assistant secretary of the Interior, overpowering Leland's Warner and Davis schemes. Ryan’s success ends Leland’s bid and signals potential fallout in local Republican factions.
The Iowa arrived at the New York navy yard after a fast run from Philadelphia in preparation for its official trial along the New England coast. A contract speed of 16 knots with a $50,000 bonus per quarter knot over that figure is in play, with three runs made between light ships off the Five Fathoms bank. The trials encountered speeds near 16.20 knots on two runs and 15.75 on the third, drawing satisfaction from Capt Sarzent and the Cramp and Navy officials.
Chicago March 31 audience at the Gaiety theater witnessed a prize fight between two women the Leigh sisters Edna dressed as Corbet and Lithan as Picesummons. In the seventh round the impersonator Fus Simmons was knocked unconscious by a chin blow. stage hands aided and revived her.
Mrs B Lease left Wichita by train for Nebraska and will begin a ten day lecture tour from April 1. After a short rest back in Wichita she plans to stay in New York after her daughter graduates this spring and then sail for Europe in July.
Everett B Farrah a 40 year old man faced a probate court insanity hearing in Topeka. His mother-in-law Mrs P G Humphrey a physician testified he suffered spells and threatened self harm, but Farrah defended himself calmly and the jury found him not insane. He thanked his mother-in-law after the verdict as she refused to shake hands.
Forces encamped along the frontier around Elassona amid strategy shifts as talks stall and soldiers brace for possible escalation. Commanders emphasize readiness as tensions rise between opposing factions and local units prepare defensive positions.
The report describes Greek mobilization aimed at potential war with the Ottoman forces in Macedonia. Christians bombard a Turkish blockhouse near the Indian fort as diplomats debate responses in London and Volos. Public enthusiasm supports immediate action while monarchs pledge readiness to defend the country’s honor if war becomes necessary.
The Finance Committee of the Communities of Fifteen plans to raise ten thousand dollars in subscriptions after a two week delay. They will not set an interest tag and aim to raise sixteen hundred one dollars, dedicating the afternoon to visiting potential donors. Chairman Greinwall, ill, hopes to report later today as efforts center on attracting large financial contributions for the festival.
An eight room house belonging to the Curry estate in Highland Park was destroyed by fire today. Part of the household goods were saved while the building, insured for 50 dollars, was totally lost. Cause given as a ramp explosion in an upper rear where curling irons were used. Unsettled weather forecast with showers then clearing cooler later in the week. Also notes a divorce suit: Wm Geddes sued by wife Feta for drunkenness cruelty and abandonment.
Washington reports the White House may expand intervention in the Cane de Boerrege gang case involving serious charges against Sherri Chaves. In New Mexico, the last respite expires next Friday.
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