When was it published?

August 26, 1863 in The Ashland Union

Story August 26, 1863

The Ashland Union

Q: What sub-type of article is it?

Crime Story, Deception Fraud, Curiosity

Q: What keywords are associated?

Steamer Fire, Government Funds Theft, Mississippi River, Patriotic Thieves, Boat Arson

Ashland, Ashland County, Ohio

View full issue View on Library of Congress PDF Page 2

What is this article about?

The steamer 'Ruth' burned on the Mississippi River below Cairo on the night of the 4th inst., with several lives lost. Initially thought to have lost $2,500,000 in government funds, later suspicions point to theft by 'patriots' who burned the boat to cover it up. An investigation is underway, with ironic speculation that the thief might be promoted to Brigadier General.

Clipping

OCR Quality

98% Excellent

Full Text

Patriotic Thieves.-The steamer "Ruth" was burned on the Mississippi River, a few miles below Cairo, on the night of the 4th inst. Several lives were lost, and it was thought, at first, $2,500,000 government funds were lost; but, later developments give color to the probability, that the funds were never put on board, and that the boat was burned to cover up the guilt of certain "patriots" who had stolen it. An investigation is to be had; and if the thief is discovered he will probably be made a Brigadier General.

What sub-type of article is it?

Crime Story Deception Fraud Curiosity

What themes does it cover?

Crime Punishment Deception

What keywords are associated?

Steamer Fire Government Funds Theft Mississippi River Patriotic Thieves Boat Arson

Where did it happen?

Mississippi River, A Few Miles Below Cairo

Story Details

Location

Mississippi River, A Few Miles Below Cairo

Event Date

Night Of The 4th Inst.

Story Details

The steamer Ruth burned, several lives lost; suspected theft of $2,500,000 government funds by patriots who burned the boat to conceal the crime; investigation pending, with ironic note on potential promotion for the thief.