The New Hampshire Gazette And General Advertiser

The following melancholy accident happened at Hollis, on Monday the 4th instant.—A company of matross, commanded by Lieut. Ralph Emerson, together with the two companies of militia, belonging to that town, assembled for the purpose of military exercise; every thing appeared to be conducted with the greatest good order until they came to firing—the artillery having been once discharged, orders were immediately given to charge a second time, when the cannon, not being sufficiently sponged, while the cartridge was ramming down, went off, and the rammer turning partly round, struck the Lieutenant on his breast, and instantly put a period to his existence. A Mr. Baldwin, the person who was ramming down the cartridge, was very much hurt, having his right hand torn to pieces, and his face badly burnt; but it is hoped he will recover.—As Mr. Emerson was killed while under arms, it was thought proper that his remains should be interred with military honors; accordingly, the Wednesday following, the several companies assembled to perform the rites of sepulture, which were conducted with great decency and solemnity.