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Story
August 4, 1880
Alexandria Gazette
Alexandria, Alexandria County, District Of Columbia
What is this article about?
On the steamer Mary Washington during a storm from Washington, a man tapped the railing with a knife to 'invite' lightning, scaring passengers more; he claimed it was science and was made to stop. (148 characters)
Clipping
OCR Quality
70%
Good
Full Text
EXCURSION TURN OF MIND.—The steamer Mary Washington on her way to this city from Washington yesterday evening, encountered a storm, and the torrents of rain and sharp lightning compelled the ladies to the upper deck and congregate in the hurricane house during the heaviest of the storm, and the lightning was flashing about the boat. A man from Washington, who occupied a seat starboard side of the steamer in the presence of the ladies, conducted himself in a most gallant manner. Seeing that the ladies were already much frightened, he took a large penknife and commenced tapping the iron railing of the steamer, as if inviting the lightning to strike the boat. This conduct, yet increasing the alarm of the passengers, a gentleman approached the man and asked him why he conducted himself in the manner described, when he replied that he was acting in the line of science. He was then ordered to put the knife in his pocket, which he did after some stumbling.
What sub-type of article is it?
Curiosity
What themes does it cover?
Madness
What keywords are associated?
Storm Encounter
Lightning Fear
Foolish Conduct
Scientific Pretense
Steamer Passengers
Where did it happen?
Steamer Mary Washington From Washington To This City
Story Details
Location
Steamer Mary Washington From Washington To This City
Event Date
Yesterday Evening
Story Details
During a storm, a man from Washington on the steamer frightens ladies by tapping the iron railing with a penknife as if inviting lightning, claiming it is scientific, until a gentleman orders him to stop.