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Story
October 19, 1836
Du Buque Visitor
Dubuque, Dubuque County, Iowa
What is this article about?
In Portsmouth on September 20, 1836, a cannon misfired during a salute for returning President Jackson, killing four citizens: Joseph Tanner, Col. Joseph Bonser, Silas Ward, and a boy named Johnston. Jackson was deeply affected.
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From the Chillicothe Advertiser!
DREADFUL ACCIDENT.
The following is an extract of a letter written by a gentleman in Portsmouth to his friend in this place, dated
"PORTS MOUTH, Sept. 21st, 1836.
"It is my painful duty to relate one of the most shocking accidents--occurring last evening--which our town has ever witnessed. Notice was received yesterday of a prospect of a visit from the "Old Soldier," (President Jackson) who is on his return to Washington. Both parties made the necessary arrangements for firing a salute with a cannon--On loading the third time, the piece fired while ramming--the effect was the almost instant death of 4 of our citizens! Names- Joseph Tanner, who lived some hours after the accident; Col. Joseph Bonser. Silas Ward, a respectable young man formerly of Lancaster; and a boy, named Johnston. You will readily foresee that our rejoicing was changed to mourning. General Jackson appeared much affected, even to the shedding of tears, and remained here several hours."
DREADFUL ACCIDENT.
The following is an extract of a letter written by a gentleman in Portsmouth to his friend in this place, dated
"PORTS MOUTH, Sept. 21st, 1836.
"It is my painful duty to relate one of the most shocking accidents--occurring last evening--which our town has ever witnessed. Notice was received yesterday of a prospect of a visit from the "Old Soldier," (President Jackson) who is on his return to Washington. Both parties made the necessary arrangements for firing a salute with a cannon--On loading the third time, the piece fired while ramming--the effect was the almost instant death of 4 of our citizens! Names- Joseph Tanner, who lived some hours after the accident; Col. Joseph Bonser. Silas Ward, a respectable young man formerly of Lancaster; and a boy, named Johnston. You will readily foresee that our rejoicing was changed to mourning. General Jackson appeared much affected, even to the shedding of tears, and remained here several hours."
What sub-type of article is it?
Disaster
Historical Event
Tragedy
What themes does it cover?
Catastrophe
Misfortune
Tragedy
What keywords are associated?
Cannon Accident
President Jackson
Portsmouth Salute
Fatal Misfire
1836 Tragedy
What entities or persons were involved?
Joseph Tanner
Col. Joseph Bonser
Silas Ward
Johnston
General Jackson
Where did it happen?
Portsmouth
Story Details
Key Persons
Joseph Tanner
Col. Joseph Bonser
Silas Ward
Johnston
General Jackson
Location
Portsmouth
Event Date
September 20, 1836
Story Details
A cannon fired prematurely while ramming during a salute for President Jackson's visit, causing the instant death of four citizens and turning celebration into mourning; Jackson was visibly moved.