by Laurel | February 5th, 2013
A random tombstone from Forestdale Cemetery.
John Black, 1860 – 1906
October 31, 1906
The Sudden Death of John Black.
John Black, 46, a well known resident of Holyoke and prominent in labor circles died suddenly at his home at 284 Elm Street yesterday afternoon of Apoplexy. He was taken ill Sunday, and had been confined to his bed since that time. Arrangements had been made by him for the celebration of his 25th wedding anniversary at the Caledonian Hall this evening and invitations for his friends to be present had been sent out. Mr. Black was born in Scotland, where he was employed as a carpenter. He came to Holyoke about 25 years ago, when he first located on Main Street. Later he was employed as a bartender, being employed at different times in several of the local saloons. He became interested in the labor question, and had held offices in he bartenders’ union and in the central labor union He was a member of the Foresters, of the Manchester Unity Odd Fellows and of the Caledonia Society. He leaves, besides a widow, two daughters, Mrs. Harry Shearer and Miss Millie Black and one son Robert. He also leaves one sister in Holyoke, one sister in Belchertown, a father, two sisters and a brother in Scotland. The funeral will be held at this late home on Elm Street Friday afternoon. Rev. Dr. E. A. Reed will officiate. The burial will be in the Forestdale Cemetery.
Adapted from The Springfield Republican.
