13 May 1898
Page 1
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Newspaper
Topeka State Journal
Location
Topeka, Kansas, United States of America
Date
May 13, 1898
Page
1
In Topeka, J Collins, a leading real estate figure, was killed at dawn by an unknown assailant. Mrs Collins was wounded in the back as the killer, possibly familiar with the home, fled after firing two close range shots. The crime, discovered in the Collins residence, remains under investigation with Chief Steele and Sheriff Cook pursuing clues and examining the scene.
Mr J H Leonara says he cannot see through the case and suspects a bitter enemy killed Collins not for robbery. Collins, a respected agent for many houses and farms, treated all courteously. He believes two hammerless gun shots were fired at close range then from about 15 feet, creating a three inch wound as the shell scattered.
The report notes the Spanish Flying Squadron seen off Martinique about 600 miles south of Sampson at Porto Rico as naval units engage in maneuvers. The sighting expands the area of Spanish naval activity in the Caribbean theater.
Secretary Long announced official advices from Martinique that a Spanish squadron was sighted west of the island. Admiral Samp son’s American squadron was in action yesterday near San Juan Porto Rico. The Spanish fleet, gathered at Cape Verde, sailed west two weeks ago. Commodore Schley at Hampton Roads was ordered to sea with the lying squadron to pursue the Spanish force. The destination of the new squadron remains unknown.
Washington reports Spanish flying squadron sighted near Martinique, prompting fears of heavy fighting as U S ships like the Oregon Marietta and Ni_the ro y prepare. Navy officials express concerns over cable delays and neutrality laws while Sampson plots potential destruction of the Spanish fleet.
Washington May 13 The Spanish Cape Verde squadron in the West Indies comprises seven first class ships four armored cruisers and three destroyers This is the most exact strength available though reports from Cape Verde and Cadiz have caused doubt about the total strength and torpedo details
Boats returning to Cadiz report a Spanish squadron near Martinique with seven formidable warships. Vizcaya leads with double screws and heavy armor, followed by Ocuendo, Maria Teresa, Cristobal Coton, and the destroyers Terror, Furor, and Pluto. Details include tonnage, armor, guns, and crew counts for each vessel.
A New York dispatch lists casualties aboard the U S fleet during the San Juan bombardment. Seaman Frank Widemark of New York killed, Samuel Felt and four others wounded aboard the New Fork. Marine M G Merkle elbow broken, R C Hill and John Mitchell slightly hurt. Movilé May 19 dispatch notes Mobile port delay due to bombardment with 3,000 tons freight loaded yet awaiting clearance.
Havana dispatch from General Macre as of May 1 reports Shaleven vessels appeared before Porto Rico and opened fire without warning. The port battery replied, heavy cannonading lasted until nine in the morning with insignificant damage and losses.
London May 13 Madrid correspondent says the government has received word that Admiral Cervera’s voyage to Martinique was uneventful. The route to Puerto Rico is unknown here but included in his secret instructions. He was directed to enter a neutral port and likely chose Fort de France for that purpose.
Col Fred Funston sails tonight for Tampa to join General Miles as part of his staff. The telegram orders him to Cuba, signaling the Twentieth Kansas will go to Cuba rather than the Philippines. The detachment is temporary, and Funston will rejoin his regiment once it lands in Cuba. Lieut Col Ed Little will command the regiment tonight until Funston's return.
The coast and harbor lights in the Melaga area have been ordered extinguished with no further orders issued.
London May 13 dispatch says urgent instructions were sent to the commander of the Cape Verde squadron when the bombardment of San Juan de Porto Rico became known.
Washington May 13 Today was the regular cabinet day and knowledge of that kept many away who otherwise would have conferred with the president. Senators Platt New York Fairbanks Indiana Turple Indiana Representative Butler and Bankhead Alabama were early observers and attendees.
A May dispatch from St Thomas reports San Juan de Porto Rico surrendered at 6 p.m. amid immense damage. American ships bombarded the city, firing hundreds of shots. Morro Castle was targeted, and several buildings collapsed. Casualties include one seaman killed and four wounded aboard the New York. the lone was also struck with minor injuries.
Admiral Sampson reports a partial squadron attack on San Juan on May 12 at daybreak. No armed ships found. batteries shelled for about three hours causing damage to fortifications and nearby city areas. One sailor killed aboard the New York. seven wounded. Navy officials surprised by St Thomas dispatch.
Washington May 1 The muster rolls list Marine Sampesa bom bardment victims from San Juan with Frank Widemerk killed Samuel Feltman Joseph Alexander Raymond Hill Join Mitchell and MG Markle named. All are described with birthplaces ages and service lengths. dispatches note no official list yet. Madrid May 13 The official version says the A Meet was beaten.
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