John Nelson |
| Posted 2015-08-28 by Judy Wight Branson |
| Weekly Journal Miner, Prescott, Arizona Territory Wednesday, November 9, 1910, page 3, column 6 White Plague Victim Dies A Suicide (From Friday's Daily) Keenly realizing that it was futile to combat longer the ravages of the white plague, and not desiring to fare the future in financial distress or to be a burden on his friends, John Nelson, yesterday morning, chose the suicide method of ending his earthly existence. He used carbolic acid, swallowing almost the entire contents of a four ounce bottle of the deadly liquid. That he contemplated self destruction for several days was known only to a few of his acquaintances, his mind being burdened in realizing that he was in the early stages of tuberculosis, on which subject he frequently conversed. He stated that it would be better to go than to stay and suffer, and particularly so with limited finances to still further harass his existence. Under these conditions he went to his cabin on North Granite street, at about 12:30 o'clock Thursday morning and retired for the night. Between 3 and 4 o'clock he arose and dressed himself, according to a statement made by his companion, who occupied the room with him, but who had his bed on the floor. At that time Nelson committed the deed, and so carefully did he plan his death, that it was not known until his body was found lying on the bed, later in the morning. Nelson even took the precaution to recork the bottle after he had drained it of all the acid desired, and in his death he experienced none of the usual convulsions or agonies that ordinarily are associated with violent methods. His body was found lying on the side with the features as placid as though death resulted from natural causes. He was well known in this city, and followed the vocation of a gardner. He was an expert in this line, and was constantly employed in East Prescott, particularity, where his services were highly appreciated. In addition to his ability, he bore a splendid reputation due to his genial personality and generosity to many acquaintances. He had been a resident of this city for the past ten years and was about forty-three years old. He was a native of Sweden, and is said to have several relatives residing that country, but none here.. The remains were taken in charge by the Ruffner undertaking establishment, to be prepared for interment. Transcriber's note: Mr. Nelson is buried in an unmarked grave at the Citizens Cemetery in Prescott, Arizona. |
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