The Newspaper Life of
WILLIAM EDWARD BLAIR
(14 Apr 1847 - 19 Feb 1894)
The Continuing Story
[page 2]

Contributed Dec 2006
by Amy L. Flumer

per The Florence Herald January 11, 1890 - Mr. Ed. Blair is having Chestnut street graded in front of his new residence at his own expense. Mr. W.F. Williams has charge of the work and is pushing it through rapidly. Such enterprise as displayed by Mr. Blair is commendable and worthy of note. With a few more such citizens we would soon have all the city streets in perfect condition.

per The Herald March 15, 1890 - A HEAVY GRADE - The Dummy line is being graded at the Foster works. The line was changed from the rear of the Butter Dish Factory to run out Terrace street. The grade is very heavy and it will cost $800 to cut down the hill, so that it can be used. Mr. W.E. Blair has the contract and will be engaged several weeeks yet in the work, which has been seriously delayed by the incessant heavy rains.

per The Banner - April 17, 1890 - BEAT MEETINGS - A meeting of the Democratic party of Florence Beat, was held in the Court House last Saturday at 2 0'clock, for the purpose of selecting 19 delegates to attend a County Convention to he held here on Saturday next, the 19th inst. On motion of Emmet O'Neal, Capt. Jas. Wm. Morgan was called to the chair, and the editors of the Herald and Banner, were elected secretaries. the chairman stated the object of the meeting after which a motion prevailed for the chair to appoint a committee of five to select 19 delegates and as many alternated to the county convention. This committed consisted of J. B Weakley, Jr., Wm. M. Jackson, Emmet O'Neal, Thos. R. Powers and Jos. Button. ...................................................At this the committee returned and reported the following named gentlemen as delegates and alternates: W. E. Blair........................

per The Herald April 23, 1890 - STREET IMPROVEMENTS
Mr. Ed Blair is pushing the grading of Tennessee street with a large force of hands. The street is being graded down between Seminary and Walnut streets, and the dirt used to fill in the depression between Walnut and Poplar. The street will be widened at these points to its proper width, and the sidewalks cut down to the last established grades. These improvements are watched with a great deal of interest by the property holders on this important throughfare. The policy of the city should be to press this kind of work as much as possible, in order to keep the streets torn up as short a time as possible.

per The Banner April 24, 1890 - Mr. Blair, one of the leading figures of Flo. enterprises was in Attalla prospecting Mon. Attala New Age-Herald, 17th inst.

per The Florence Times July 11, 1890 - EIGHT MILLION BRICK. Mr. Ed Blair, for whose judgement all our people have great respect, says there will be 8,000,000 brick laid in Florence this year, including those going into the buildings now in course of erection. The Reeder building which is to be a fine structure, will consume 340,000 and the McCluskey-Young buildings, adjoining, probably over 500,000.

May 24, 1890 per The Florence Herald - Aleck Johnson, a colored laborer, working on the excavations going on for the foundation of the new Reeder building on Tennessee street near Seminary, must have put on his socks, if her wears any, wrong side out on Thursday, as he was lucky enough to find $55 in greenbacks while running his scraper. It is supposed they must have been carried away by a rat, who had a fancy for an expensive bed, into one of the many holes in the ancient flooring of the old building. The money when found was in good condition, one of the bills, only, being slightly torn. Aleck has not lost his head over his find, but has handed $50 of it over to Mr. Ed Blair for whom he is working, only keeping $5 with which to celebrate the event.

per The Banner June 16, 1890 - Mr. W. E. Blair, after protracted illness, is able to be up, but not yet able to attend to business.

per The Banner July 3, 1890 - Mr. W.E. Blair sold a portion of the lot known as the Wm. Linder lot, on the corner of Seminary and Tennessee street, last week for $170 a front foot. A banking house is to be built on it. It is predicted by some of the knowing ones that property will sell at $500 a front foot on Tennessee street in the next two years.

per The Florence Times - July 11, 1890 - Marshal Blair was instructed to take a policeman from the central part of the city and place him at Sweetwater, if he deemed it necessary.

per The Florence Times - July 11, 1890 - Mr. Ed Blair's horse became frightened on Court Street, last Saturday, and ran away, turning the buggy over and damaging it considerably. Mr. Blair and his son, Eddie were thrown from the buggy, but not hurt.

per The Florence Times - July 25, 1890 - HIT ON THE HEAD - A MIDNIGHT ROW IN BLAIR'S QUARTERS. On Friday night of last week, the clear, ringing cry on "murder!", "murder!", coming from the south-eastern part of the city - "Blair's quarters," aroused the denisons of that section and quickly brought to the scene of trouble the whole night force of police, Messrs. Morrison, White and Benham, and a crowd of neighbors. The cause of the excitement as presented to the police on their arrival was a 200-pound colored may lying apparently dead on the ground with an ugly gash in his head over the eye. The wounded man was Sanford Jones and the man who did the wounding was Randolph McVay, both of them citizens of color. It appears that Jones, who it is said was drinking, had gone to McVay's house and told him that he had come to "do him." He forthwith proceeded to beat Randolph, who was physically unable from sickness, to properly take care of himself. After they were separated Randolph hurled a missile, a stone probably, at his assailant; laying him out; and then the hue and cry followed, Randolph made no effort to get away and the police escorted him to jail, while Dr. Kernachan attended to Jones.

per The Florence Herald July 26, 1890 - Mr. Wm. L. Reeded desires the Herald to state for him and Messrs. Brown and Blair that the excavation of their lot on Tennessee Street next the Hearld office, was paid for by them and the dirt used in leveling up the street for some two blocks.

per The Florence Times August 1, 1890 - MR. W. E. BLAIR, WHAT AN ENTERPRISING CITIZEN HAS DONE FOR FLORENCE - A HANDSOME RESIDENCE. The leading object of placing in The Times the cuts of various public buildings is to demonstrate in the strongest manner possible the splendid, and substantial character of work which is being done in the city of Florence. But beautiful business houses and handsome public structures fail to give to a place that air of comfort and happiness which is portrayed in elegant and imposing residences. "Tis home where the heart is", and the above is a cut of one of the handsomest and most comfortable homes in all the city of Florence.
It is the property of Mr. Wm. Ed Blair and was completed in the early part of this year. It is a beautiful three-story wood building with mansand slate roof. The grove of large oaks surrounding the residence gives it at once a handsome and homelike appearance. Containing in all 15 rooms, it is completely finished throughout. The finishing touches were put on by Mr. J. A. Connell and his artistic work; especially in the parlor, shows up beautifully. The building with all its finishing is after the latest ideas of architecture and art, which adds largely to its modern appearance. Many of the rooms are handsomely frescoed and the ornamentation in this respect and in the painting is very fine. It is a handsome house, handsomely located and one of the finest in North Alabama. Mr. Blair has been one of our most successful business men. Ten years ago his worldly possessions were meager; his is now safely rated at over $75,000 and his future is very satisfactory, as he owns, some of the most valuable real estate in the city, which is certain to enhance in value. Whilst-- thus attending to business on his own account, Mr. Blair has served the city well. Besides having been until recently a member of the board of directors of the Old Land Company, and now an efficient member of the board of directors of the Railroad and Improvement company, he has used his money and his influence largely in putting on foot other enterprises looking to the upbuilding of our city. Through unostentatious in manner, he is a very progressive and public -spirited gentleman and in the commencement of the new life at Florence, he was an efficient co-laborer with Judge Wood and labored faithfully to set the difficult and complicated machinery of the Land Company in motion, being one of the appraisers of land put into the company previous to the first public sale. He has led a most active life and has built in the city about 50 houses, over 40 of which he now owns. His faith in Florence is great and his services are properly appreciated by those who know the valuable work he has done.

per The Herald August 2, 1890 - Mr. Ed Blair, is putting up another neat cottage, immediately adjoining and west of the cemetery.

per the Florence Times August 8, 1890 - ADMINISTERING JUSTICE - On Monday last, Mr. Ed. Blair, who has suffered very greatly from sneak thieves, caught two negro boys, (John Patton and Buck Williams), stealing his chickens, and he forthwith proceeded to administer due punishment for the offense. the boys were caught in the very act, and the fowls were taken out of their hands, and there was no mistake as to the justice of punishment. While in Mr. Blair's hands these young thieves confessed several other robberies.

per the Florence Times August 8, 1890 - Mr. W.E. Blair lost a valuable horse from sun-stroke last Saturday.

per The Herald August 13, 1890 - Mr. Ed Blair has concentrated his whole force of mules and scrapers on the Maxwell hill. We hope to see this barricade removed at an early day, and Tennessee Street opened up and graveled through to Royal Avenue.

per the Herald August 13, 1890 - Mr. Ed Blair caught two negro boys stealing chickens, Monday night. He locked them up and sent down town for a horse whip and proceeded to administer the "rod of correction" till they were completely worn out. The whipping post should be inaugurated in this section, which would soon diminish the number of such depredations.

per The Banner August 21, 1890 - Chicken stealing by small boys, seems to be on the increase. Mr. W. E. Blair caught two the other night stealing his chickens. He captured them and gave each a sound thrashing and turned them loose. Mr. Spielberger also lost about a dozen chickens the other night. There are a great many idlers about town, and it is well known they have to eat and if they do not work it is evident they steal, and if there is no law that will prevent them stealing one should be framed that would cover the cage. For the time beeing the vagrant law should be strickly enforced, and these worthless characters made to go to work, or leave the town. A brigade of chicken thieves in a town are very annoying, and should be dealt with severely when captured.

per The Florence Times - Oct. 10, 1890 - THE CITY COUNCIL - REGULAR BI-MONTHLY MEETING - .......................Health Sergeant, Fuqua's resignation was submitted and accepted and the city marshal, Mr. Blair, was instructed to take general supervision of the position, and to require the police men alternately to look after the interests involved. ..............................

per The Herald November 8, 1890 - Mr. Ed Blair has put a force of hands at work excavating the Maxwell hill on Tennessee Street, which will be completed in two weeks in accordance with the resolution passes by the Board of Alderman at its session on Monday night.

per The Banner November 13, 1890 - WE learned that Dr. L. F. Duckett, has purchased a lot at Seven Points (Needmore) for which he paid $1,500 cash, and on which he proposes to build a dwelling house and drug store. We have a Hollingsworth at Sweetwater, a Duckett at Needmore. Now give us a progressive man like the two named, in Cannan, on the west side, and our city will continue to grow. On the south-east side W. E. Blair has already done his share of building, and A. W. Porter on the north-west.

per The Florence Times - Nov. 28, 1890 - Mr. and Mrs. H. W. Sample and Mr. Ed Blair attended conference at Birmingham this week.

per The Florence Times - Dec. 12, 1890 - STOCKHOLDERS' MEETING - A meeting of the stockholders of the Florence Stove company is hereby called to be held at the office of the company in the city of Florence, Alabama, on Friday the 2nd day of January, 1891, for the election of officers, and for the transaction of such other business as may be considered proper for the interests of the company. Henry Thoele, President, W. E. Blair, Secretary. Dec. 12 tdm

per The Herald - Jan. 14, 1891 - MAYOR'S REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FLORENCE, ALABAMA - The the Honorable Board of Aldermen and the city of Florence: I hereby tender you my report, as required to Section 20 of the City Charter, for the fiscal year ending December 1st, 1890 as shown in the city records, and per vouchers on file: The City Treasurer's books make the following showing: Bal. on W. E. Blair's note, taken as cash..................$8,325.77. Resources of the city for the next fiscal year: Bal. on Blair's note..................$8,325.77..............................................................................

per The Herald - Jan. 28, 1891 - It is reported that a company had been formed which will apply to the board for a franchise to place a line of boats on Lake Blair, this spring. In case this is done a fine opportunity will be offered our citizens for moon-light excursions on the water. Quiaine free from the Health Department.

per The Herald - Jan. 28, 1891 - CITY FATHERS MEET - The Street committee was instructed to have a sidewalk made from the foot of Tennessee street to Calahan's stable on Royal avenue, the cost having been agreed on by W. E. Blair.

per The Herald - Feb. 4, 1891 - Marshal Jim Blair wishes it understood that Lake Blair should be credited to "bud" Ed. Blair. Mr. Blair's name will go down in history as a "lake builder."

per The Florence Times - Feb. 7, 1891 - MOTRGAGE SALE - Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a mortgage executed by Henry J. Darby, Emily Darby, John A. Darby, Alice Darby and J. B. Darby, on the 12th day fo Feb. 1889 and recorded in deed book No. 5, on page 111, in the office of the judge of probate of Lauderdale County, Ala., we will proceed to see, on the 9th day of March, 1891 to the highest bidder, for cash, in front of the court house door, in said county, within legal hours of sale, the following described real estate, viz: part of lot 403, in the town of Florence, Ala., as shown by W. E. Blair's plat, which is recorded in the office of the probate judge of Lauderdale County, Ala., in plat book for 1887, page 42, beginning at the S. W. cor. of said lot 403 at the intersection of College and Chestnut streets, and running eastwardly with College Street 154 feet and 6 inches; thence northwardly 133 feet to an alley; thence westwardly 154 feet and 6 inches to Chestnut street; thence southwardly with Chestnut street to the point of beginning; with all and singular the appurtenances thereunto belonging. Said lands will be sold to pay two notes described in said mortgage, for $1,125.00 each and the interest. this Feb. 5th, 1891. L. Hudson, W. E. Blair, J. B. White, T. K. Ferguson. Feb. 7-5w


per The Florence Times - Feb. 21, 1891- MORTGAGE SALE- Under and by virtue of a power of sale contained in a mortgage executed to the undersigned by W. A. Hudson, trustee for J. H. Field, and others, and recorded in volume 35 of deeds, on page 117, in the office of the probate judge of Lauderdale county, I will proceed to sell on the 23rd day of March, 1891, in front of the court house in Lauderdale county, within the legal hours of sale, to the highest bidder for cash, the following land: Lots No. 15 and 16 in block 184 in the sub-division of the Samuel Hyde property, situated in Lauderdale county, Alabama. feb 21st Wm. E. Blair.

per The Florence Times - Feb. 21, 1891 - Mr. W. E. Balir was severely sick the early part of this week.

per The Florence Times - Feb. 28, 1891 - A GOOD INSTITUTION - The fourth annual statement of the Florence Mutual Building, Loan and Savings Association, which we publish to-day, is an interesting paper. This is the oldest institution of its kind in Florence, and it has contributed its full share in enabling our people to build homes. A glance at the list of citizens who have been benefited by this Association is sufficient evidence to indicate the advantages of such institutions to a town. Besides helping others it has helped itself, the record showing its earnings to have averaged each year since its existence over fourteen per cent. The company is in good hands and fine condition. Its officers are Messrs. R. L. Bliss president, Andrew Brown, vice-president, Geo. P. Jones attorney, Jas. K. Powers treasurer, J. B. White secretary. The directors are the above named gentlemen and Messrs. H. B. Lee, H. C. Jones, B. B. Garner, P. A. Patrick, Louis Friedman and W. E. Blair.

per The Florence Times - March 21, 1891- THE CITY FATHERS - INTERESTING MEETING OF THE COUNCIL - The city council convened in regular meeting Monday evening, present, his honor, Mayor Andrews, and Councilmen Morrison, Lee, Young, Allen, Dice and Shelton. An overtax for 1890 of $65 was ordered to be refunded to W. E. Blair................................

per The Herald - March 18, 1891 - CITY COUNCIL - The City Council met Monday night, all the members were present except Mr. Bennie. After the reading of the minutes of last meeting, the City Assessor made a report in regard to over-charge in taxation claimed by Mr. Blair. After considerable discussion, it was decided, upon the recommendation of the Collector, that $65 be refunded to Mr. Blair.

per Florence Times - March 21, 1891 - TENNESSEE BOULEVARD - The contractor, Mr. W. E. Blair, is now pressing the work of finishing up Tennessee street and a good force of hands has been put on the east end of this handsome boulevard. The city has $8,000 or $10,000 locked up on this street, due by the property owners, and they are urging the work with the view of collection the amount due.

per The Herald - March 25, 1891 - Mr. Ed. Blair is pushing the work of grading the Maxwell hill, on Tennessee street.

per The Florence Times - April 4, 1891 - DEED OF TRUST SALE - Under and by virtue of a deed of trust or mortgage executed by W. E. Blair to the Florence Land, Mining and Manufacturing Co. on the 11th day of December, 1888, the undersigned, The Florence Land, Mining and Manufacturing Co., will on Monday, the 4th day of May, 1891, sell at public auction, to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the court house, in Florence, Ala. for following lands, in Lauderdale county, Ala. viz: Lots No. 4, 5, 6 in Block 442. The said lots and block and numbered as above in the plan of the city of Florence, made by Chas. E. Boeckh, C. E. , for the Florence Land, Mining and Manufacturing co. The proceeds of the sale will be applied to the payment of the expenses of the sale, including a reasonable attorney's fee, the amount due the undersigned and secured by said deed of trust, and the residue, if any, to the said W. E. Blair. This the 1st day of April, 1891. Florence Land, Mining and Man'f'g Co. By A. W. Stockell, Pres't.

per The Herald - April 8, 1891 - THE CITY COUNCIL - THE CITY FATHERS COME TOGETHER ONCE MORE. MINOR BUSINESS ATTENDED TO. BUT THE HOSE QUESTION WAS NOT MENTIONED, AND THE PEOPLE'S RESULATIONS WERE DEFERRED. - The City council meeting last night was not as interesting as it was thougth it would be, several questions which were expected to be debated; and acted upon, were not mentioned at all. The following is a brief synopsis of the meeting. - Mr. Blair, who has charge of work on Tennessee street, said that he would be able to turn the street over to the city before the next meeting of the council.

per The Florence Times - May 9, 1891 - THE CITY COUNCIL - SALE OF CITY BONDS. SEWERAGE - FREE SCHOOL TRUSTEES, POND NUISANCES. ET CETERA - It was resolved that the board of trustees for the city free school should consist of the mayor and three other members; and the following gentlemen were elected: W. M. Campbell, John B. Weakley, Jr., and Col. A. W. Stockell. The other gentlemen voted for were Messrs. L. C. Hudson, N. C. Elting and W. E. Blair. .............................

per The Florence Times - June 2, 1891 - CITY COUNCIL - CALLED MEETING - There was a called meeting of the city council Tuesday night for the purpose of receiving reports of committees on the completion of Tennessee Street and accepting the city hall. It was ordered that one of more architects be employed to examine the building and see what it will cost to put it in a first-class condition and according to contract, and also embody in their report their opinion as to the safety of the brick walls, which the committee report out of plumb. The finance and street committees were ordered to make settlement with Mr. W. E. Blair for work done on Tennessee street and all other unsettled business bet

per The Herald - July 8, 1891 - STREET AND ROAD IMPROVEMENTS - Military avenue has been improved and graded from the L. & N railroad to Royal avenue. Heretofore this has been a very rough and bad piece of road. Messrs. Blair & Angel have completed their contract for graveling Tennessee street. The city has settled in full with Mr. Blair for the grading of Tennessee street. The work on the Waterloo road below Stewart Springs bridge has been completed. The bridge was being undermined but has been protected by false works and the channel of the stream confined.

per The Florence Times, Aug. 8, 1891 - Mr. W. E. Blair under a contract with the Old Land Company, is now engaged in grading the grounds around the University.

per The Florence Times - Aug. 29, 1891 - NEXT TUESDAY IS THE DAY - Next Tuesday afternoon at 3:30 o'clock the Athletics of Florence will cross bats, at Florence, with the Town Creek nine in what promises to be the most interesting game of ball of this season.It is said that Town Creek has the best nine along the line of the M. & C. and Florence is in good trim, with the best ball ground in the country. Their lady friends are especially invited to attend. The following are the Athletics who will engage in the game: Wheeler, McFarland, Hooks, Bunting, Coleman, Rice, Ricketts, Blair and Jett. Mr. George Tate, of Sheffield will umpire the game.

per The Florence Times - Sept. 5, 1891 - ANOTHER GAME OF BALL - The lawyers have challenged the newspaper men for another game of ball and it will be played this afternoon. The following are the players: Lawyers Crow, Blair, Rice, Jordan, Simpson, Tatum, Ashcraft, Bacon, Parkins. Newspaper men and druggists Camper, Bunting, Barr, Ashcraft, Mack, Barnes, Austin, Milner, Perkins, Burtwell.


per The Florence Times Oct. 10, 1891 - CITY COUNCIL - STRICTLY A BUSINESS MEETING: Report of Officers and Committees - Tax Declared Delinquent Jan. 1st - Assessments for Street Work Must be Paid at Once. - Other Important matters...............................................
The committee appointed some months ago to make a settlement with Mr. W. E. Blair, reported that after having been credited with all street work done, Mr. Blair was still due $229.97, which amount had been settled by Mr. Blair's one day note. ...........................................

per The Florence Times - Nov. 28, 1891 The West Point Mining and Manufacturing company, whose chief members, Messrs, McGarry, Allen and Blair, are residents of Florence, is now mining and shipping 150 tons of ore per day. They ship to Sheffield and Cowan.

per The Florence Times Dec 24, 1891 - PHILADELPHIA FURNACE! TO GO INTO BLAST IN JANUARY! The Great Plant Making Ready for Work, The Times is able to report upon the highest authority that the Philadelphia furnace, the finest plant of its kind in all this section, will go into blast in January! Orders have been given from headquarters to make ready for the turning of the wheels, and the superintendent of the iron department of the Cotton and Iron company, Mr. Dan King, is bending every energy in that direction. Coke in large quantities is now on its way here, and will soon be dumped in a continuous stream on the ground; workmen are engaged in preparing dumps for the slag, and arrangements have been made with Mr. W. E. Blair to construct a switch from the south side of the bridge to the lime stone quarries a few hundred yards south of that point with conditions that, if necessary, he is to work a double force, night and day, to complete the work. The managers of this great plant have been feeling their way carefully, and have determined to commence operations on a sure foundation. They have ample capital behind them, they have a complete furnace, their ore supplies are inexhaustible and of the finest quality, and they will, in the opinion of our best judges, demonstrate the wisdom of the men who have put their money down at Florence. The effect of the "blowing in" of this furnace will be substantial and immediate; and the indirect benefits will be even greater, reaching as they will, into every department of business. Let us all rejoice and take coverage!
per The Herald - Feb. 3, 1892 - LAUDERDALE COUNTY THE FIRST TO ORGANIZE A HILL CLUB IN THE SOUTH. A Permanent Organization Effected Over one Hundred Staunch Democrats in Ranks. A number of leading citizens of Florence met in the office of W. P. Campbell, Esq. Thursday night for the purpose of organizing a David B. Hill Democratic Club. ..........................The following names have been enrolled as members since the last meeting: W. E. Blair........................................

per The Florence Times March 26, 1892 - SHERIFF'S SALE - Under the virtue of sundry executions in my hands from the district court of Lauderdale county, Ala., in favor or W. E. Blair and others vs. The Florence investment company, a corporation organized under the laws of Alabama. I will proceed to sell on Monday, the 14th day of March, 1892, at court house door in the city of Florence, Alabama, to the highest, best and last bidder, for cash, during the legal hours of sale, the following described personal property, viz 55 shares of stock of the Central Land company, a corporation organized under the Laws of Alabama; and 15 shares of the capital stock of the Florence Railroad and Improvement company, a corporation under the laws of Alabama, and on Monday, the 28th day of March, 1892, of the court house door in the city at Florence, Alabama to the highest, best and last bidder, for cash, during the legal hours of sale, the following described real estate, to wit: Lots 1, 2, 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10, 12. 13. 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, of Hudson's Plat of part of lot 374; also lots 1 t0 9 inclusive, and lots 12 t0 38 inclusive, in Mrs. V. F. Irvine's plat of certain triangular tract of land lying between Wood and Royal avenues and Lelia street, in Florence, Alabama. Also lot No. 160, according to the plan of the town of Florence, as made by the Cypress Land company; all of said lands being in Lauderdale County, Alabama, all of said property, real and personal, levied on as the property of the Florence Investment company, and in favor of W. E. Blair and others. Geo. W. Porter, Sheriff Feb 27, 5th

per The Florence Times -Apri 2, 1892 - BASE BALL - The base ball season is about to open. The Florence Athletics who won distinguished honors on hand fought fields last summer, have about completed their team and are prepared to meet any club in North Alabama. The Athletic team is as follows: Wheeler c., McFarland, p., Hooks, 1st b., Simon, 2d b., Lines, 3rd b., Jett, s.s., Chapin, r. f., Blair, c.f., Welsh, l.f., Morrison.

per The Florence Times April 25, 1892 - The Times regrets to learn that Mr. W. E. Blair has been confined to his home this week by serious illness.

per The Herald April, 28, 1892 - FOR THE GOVERNOR. A Majority of the Delegates Instructed for Governor Jones. The Beat Meeting largely attended and very exciting. Florence Fights Over Hill and Cleveland and the Ex-President wins the day. Mr. Emmet O'Neal moved that the chairman appoint a committee of five to select delegates to the county convention. ..............................W. E. Blair...................

per The Banner May 5, 1892 - Mr. W. E. Blair who has been dangerously ill of late is much better.

per The Banner - June 16, 1892 - Mr. W. E. Blair, after protracted illness, is able to be up, but not yet able to attend to business.

per The Banner (Florence Gazette) Sept. 1, 1892 - BASE BALL - FLORENCE WINS A MOST INTERESTING AND EXCITING GAME- The base ball fever seems to be epidemic in cities, towns, villages, hamlets and cross roads, all are infested with it. While speaking of base ball, we will remark, that we witnessed a very stubbornly contested game on the diamond here last Saturday evening, between the Sheffield team and our home team. The game was called about 4 p.m., the visitors taking the field, and the home team going to the bat. The game was hotly contested on both sides, only one run being made, and that by our team up to the 6th inning. During this inning the home tean seemed to be "getting rattled" and by two or three bad errors, allowed the visitors to cross the home plate three times. Our boys seeing their mistake, immediately got to work, and never let the visitors make another score. In the 7th inning the visitors seemed to get demoralized, and let our boys make two runs, (and that, too, when two men were out,) which game them four scores, against three on their side of the score sheet. Thus the game stood till the 9th inning, when the home team made two more scores. Outside of the errors made by the home them n the 6th inning, they played ball in earnest. There is one thing visitors must remember, if they want the ball they knock to the field to hit the ground, they must not knock them in a mile or two of the two Ed's - Blair and Jett - for they are sure to get them. Wheeler and McFarland, were the Florence battery, and they played it to perfection. Wheeler would sit flat on the ground behind the batter, and catch the "bullet-like" balls from McFarland, with as much ease as if he was holding a basket for it. To say that Hays Hooks was on first base, is enough to know that it was well supported. Herbert Kendrick, played in right field, kept up his side handsomely. Ed Jett played 2nd base, and did his usual amount of good work. Bester Coleman played short stop. Naomia Morrison 3rd base, Tom Crow left field and Ed Blair center field. These players kept up their side, and made it un-interesting to the visitors, - but very interesting to our people. Tom Crow's catch of a fly in left field, was good. All-in-all, it was the best game of ball we have seen played here for many a day. At least two hundred people were present, a great many being ladies, all anxious of course, to see their own team win the game. Below we give the score by innings: Florence 1-0-0-0-0-1-2-0-2---6 Sheffield 0-0-0-0-0-3-0-0-0---3

per The Herald - Sept. 1, 1892 - FLORENCE ATHLETICS VS SHEFFIELD - The Athletics and the Sheffield nine crossed bats on Saturday afternoon and the result was that every body in attendance got his money's worth. The visitors were in good form, considering that it was their first game of the season, while the Athletics played a much looser game than was expected of them, allowing the boys from the Steel Crowned City three runs in one inning. Superb running catches in the field by Blair and Crow for the Athletics are especially worthy of mention, while both batteries did excellent work, as shown by the number struck out. A fairly large crowd of spectators was present, among which were a number of ladies, who seemed fully as interested and enthusiastic as the masculine element. Appended, is the score:
Florence Athletics-
TB R BB PO A E
Wheeler c 4 0 2 17 1 0
Jett, 2d b 4 0 1 2 2 1
McFarland, p 4 2 2 0 1 0
Crow, lf 5 0 2 1 0 0
Morrison, 3b 5 1 1 0 0 1
Coleman, ss 5 0 0 0 2 2
Hooks, 1b 5 0 2 4 0 1
Kendrix, rf 4 2 0 0 0 0
Blair, cf 4 1 1 3 0 0
TOTAL 49 6 11 27 4 5
Sheffield -
TOTAL 36 3 3 27 10 5
Struck out by Copeland, 7; wild pitches, 1.
Struck out by McFarland, 16, wild pitches, 4.

per The Florence Times Sept. 3, 1892 - FLANIGEN'S CASE - On Friday night last Mr. Joseph R. Flanigen, who had been in the hands of the law on the charge of embezzlement for over a week, previously, having been bound over by Judge H. D. Smith, in the sum of $500 for his appearance at court, made his bond, and departed for Philadelphia. The bond was made through the assistance of his brother, who lives in Philadelphia, he having sent the necessary aid here on Friday. Flanigen had sued out a writ of habeas corpus before Judge Chitwood of the district court week before last and in the early part of last week he began the hearing of the case and after the evidence had been taken, the hearing of argument of counsel was postponed because of court being in session in Colbert. Mr. Flanigen's bondsmen are Messrs. W. E. Blair and B. P. Joiner.

per The Herald Sept. 29, 1892 - SUCCESSFUL NIMRODS. A party of five hunters spent two days in the bottoms near Gravelly Springs last week and killed 132 squirrels and one wild goat. The party consisted of W. B. Brown, Ed Blair, Jno. Hooper, Jas. Hill and Will McFarland. The boys camped out in the bottom.

per The Florence Times Oct. 22, 1892 - Democratic Club Organized. A meeting was held in the courthouse at Florence October 15th and a "Young Man's Democratic Club" was organized. Mr. M. B. Shelton was selected temporary chairman and Mr. R. G. Banks, temporary officers were elected. ........................On motion of Dr. Kernachan the chair appointed a committee of five to select a committee of twelve to formulate a plan to work for the impending campaign. The committee immediately retired, and returned in a few minutes, announcing the following committee: R. G. Banks, chairman, W. E. Blair, B. B. Garner...............

per The Herald Dec. 8, 1892 - A BIT OF HISTORY - The Fate That Overtook Three Bold Robbers in 1872 - They Visited Several Florence Houses, But Pail for Their Fun at the End of a Rope. The recent robberies which have occurred in this city call to mind an incident of 1872 which is still fresh in the minds of many Florentines. In the year 1872 a number of bold robberies occurred in various North Alabama towns. That the work was done by professionals was evident from the systematic manner in which they carried out their designs. At Athens, Ala., they made a wholesale haul and were compelled to leave that town in a great hurry. They came toward Florence, and that fact being known, the authorities at Athens telegraphed to this city to be on the lookout for them. The afternoon before the Florence robberies occurred everyone was on their guard. It was known that the gang was headed for this place and it was confidently expected that they would reach the town that night. As the shades of night gell over the city the merchants double locked their stores and loaded their pistols. Nearly every man in town slept that night with his pistol under his pillow and many were the dire threats that were made against the expected robbers. Darkness enveloped the city and the robbers came. There were three of them and they traveled in style. Their buggy was of the newest and handsomest pattern. Fleet horses, covered with goldmounted harness, drew them thither and fine wines and good cigars helped them beguild the hours enroute. Arriving in the city, they hitched their team and went immediately to the jail where they helped themselves to the best the larder afforded. Our present efficient city marshal, Hope Morrison, was jailor at the time, and so quiet were the visitors that he knew nothing of their being there until the next morning. After leaving the jail the thieves visited a dozen or more houses and relieved a number of citizens of money and jewelry. One citizen considered himself particularly well prepared for them. He had his pistol loaded and lying on a table near the head of his bed. His watch he placed under his pillow and the lamp on the table was turned low but was convenient for him to reach and turn up should occasion require. That night the robbers called on him. They took his watch from under his pillow and put his pistol there instead. They then took everything they wanted, turned the light very high and left him sweetly slumbering. Other parties were treated in a like manner. In fact, nearly everyone in Florence was robbed. In the morning, people began gathering on the street corners. As every new comer would draw near, he would relate how he had been robbed. Presently a posse was formed and pursuit given to the theives. They were caught near town and brought back to the scene of the exploits.
From jewelry found about them, their identity was established and all three were promptly hung. Their bodies were then riddled with bullets. One of the robbers was named Mat Dudley. The names of the other two are not know. There was no more stealing in Florence for a number of years after the hanging bee.

per The Florence Times Dec. 10, 1892 - A REMINISENCE - A Hanging Bee In Florence Years Ago. The annoying robberies that have taken place in Florence during the past two weeks recalls to the minds of our older citizens an event that occurred in this city soon after the war, in which two bold , bad men paid the penalty of their acts at the hands of the outraged people for offenses similar to those just lately occurred. At the time mentioned the people had been greatly annoyed by robberies and other grave misdemeanors, aggravated no doubt, by the fact that then the machinery of civil government had not yet got into perfect working order, owing to the eruptions and disturbances of the "reconstruction" period. In this condition of things two professional burglars struck the town. Their coming had been heralded from Athens and Rodgersville, where their depredations had been a grievous sin upon the people. Their presence here was not known by the people until the next morning after their exploits, when a number of our citizens awoke to the fact that while they and their families were peacefully sleeping, their houses had been robbed and valuables of all kinds - money, watches, silverware. etc., had mysteriously disappeared. The work of the robbers showed they were experts. They aroused nobody, and "went through" the different houses like old familiar friends, in some instances lighting lamps; and after accomplishing their purposes, leaving them brightly burning, apparently boasting of their skill and dexterity in their nefarious work. The next morning the city was astir early and the mysterious and general robbery of the citizens was the talk of the town. A large number of persons were sufferers. In the meantime two well dressed strangers, dandies in appearance, with stove-pipe hats setting off their hand some general get-up, had been observed in town; and after a brief stay here they departed in a buggy westward, taking the Waterloo road. Upon these men suspicion rested. It was determined to follow them. Mr. Ed Blair with a small posse of brave men undertook the job. They came up with the dandy outfit near Waterloo and their object was made known to the travelers. The latter were very indignant. They threatened damage suits - and their virtuous indignation and shiny silk ties discomfited the posse comitatus. They disclaimed any disrespect and were about to depart (providing their indignant dude travelers would allow them) - when lo and behold, Mr. Blair happened to spy, sticking out from the top of the lining of their buggy a part of the booty, they had captured at Florence. The tables were turned - the thieves were arrested and brought to jail. It may well be understood that excitement run high. The citizens were mad - and some of them mortified, at the slick manner in which they had been robbed. A deep under-current of feeling set in against the robbers, but so far as the general public knew no serious trouble was anticipated. The next morning, however, when the town awoke it found three men hanging dead to the limbs of the trees in the old Masonic Hall lot, on the corner of Court and Tombigbee streets. During the night a large crowd of well organized citizens placed the robbers in a position that gave assurance that they would rob no more houses. And there, hanging beside the two thieves, was the notorious Tom Clark, a man who for years had been the terror of the rural district circumjacent to Florence, and against whom most grievous charges existed. Clark, it was said, in his wild career as a bushwacker, had cut our the tongue of a confederate soldier, and had in the presence of its helpless mother deliberately shot an infant to death, besides doing other things equally atrocious. He had been captured and lodged in jail here; and along with the two well dressed thieves, attended the midnight picnic which for years afterwards had a most salutary effect in preserving order and suppressing evildoers.

per The Herald Dec. 22, 1892 - HE FOUND HER - WHERE SHE LEAST EXPECTED DISCOVERY. A SHEFFIELD DARKEY SHOOTS HIS WIFE'S PARAMOUR. THE TRAGEDY AT BLAIR'S QUARTERS SATURDAY NIGHT. Brooks Clifton, searching for a truant wife, found her with Bert Hinkley. He made Hinkley a Candidate for Obituary Honors. Brooks Clifton, a Sheffield darkey, came to Florence Saturday night in search of his truant wife. He found her in Blair's Quarters in the company of a Florecee darkey named Bert Hinkley and at once proceeded to make Hinkley a candidate for obituary honors. The story as told by those who claim to know is as follows: Clifton had suspected his wife for unfaithfulness for some time. She had been in the habit of making frequent visits to Florence, against the wishes and advice of her husband. Saturday the woman again came to the city and Clifton followed her soon after. He found her in Blair's Quarters in the company of Bert Hinkley. Outraged at his wife's actions and infuriated at the despoiler of his home, Clifton whipped out his pistol and fired several times at Hinkley. Two of the shots were effective and Hinkely died from the wounds Sunday afternoon. Clifton was arrested and lodged in jail. CLIFTON'S TRIAL..............................

per the Florence Times Feb. 11, 1893 - IN THE WRONG BED WITH HIS BOOTS ON - Haywood Jones, a man of color well known around town, on Saturday night last got himself decidedly in the wrong pew. He had filled up on sprits and finally wound up at Mr. Frank Cothran's, near Mr. Ed Blair's. He entered a room adjoining one in which the ladies of the family were sitting, and when the latter discovered the intruder they vacated the premises instanter and called upon Mr. Blair for help. When the latter arrived at the scene he found Jones in bed, sound asleep. He was taken in hand and after a night in durance vile, he plead guilty before the mayor and was fined $5 for disorderly conduct. Jones has the reputation of being a quiet, inoffensive darkey.

per The Herald - Feb. 16, 1893 - CAMP HUNTING - A hunting party of five, Messrs. W. E. Blair, Will McFarland, Hayes Hooks, Chas. Potts and will Powers, returned Monday from a week's camp at Colbert Shoals. The hunters reported a pleasant trip and killed thirteen geese and twenty-five ducks.

per The Herald - July 6, 1893 - BARGE STRANDED - The C. Smith had a barge loaded with lumber stranded Sunday at the hear of Blair's island, below Muscle Shoals, en route to Riverton, where it was destined for Paducah. The barge was lightened by the Smith and floated off without damage.

per The Herald - Aug 24, 1893 - BITTEN BY A RAT - The little five year old son of a man named Crafford, living in Blair's quarters, was bitten nine weeks age by a large gopher rat, on the hand. The little boy has suffered much pain and has now a well developed case of blood poisoning which will probably result in death.

per The Herlad - Aug. 31, 1893 - FISHING AND HUNTING - Messrs, W. E. Brown, John Hooper, Ed Blair, Ed Smith and Will McFarland, are spending a few days in camp at Big Bone cave at the mouth of Colbert Creek, fishing and hunting.

per The Herald - Dec. 14, 1893 - THE OLD AND THE NEW - CALLED AND ADJOURNED MEETINGS OF THE OLD BOARD OF ALDERMEN. - ..........................CITY'S RESOURCES .............................W. E. Blair's note at First National Bank - 206.97............................

per The Florence Times - Jan. 31, 1894 - THE WEST POINT M. AND M. CO.
At a meeting of the stockholders of the West Point Mining and Manufacturing Company held in Florence last week, Mr. A. A. Berger was elected president of the company in place of Mr. W. E. Blair, who had previously disposed of his stock. All of the other officers were re-elected. This company owns some of the best iron ore property in the South.

per The Herald - Feb. 22, 1894 - W. E. BLAIR DEAD - Mr. W. E. Blair died on Monday morning at 5 o'clock and was buried Friday at 10 o'clock from the Methodist church, Rev. Dr. Anson West officiating. A large concourse of friends attended the last rites over the mortal remains of one they admired and loved in days gone by. Mr. Blair was in his 47th year and leaves behind a family of four children. He has been in declining health the past three years - a part of the time a confirmed invalid. Mr. Blair was born and raised in Florence. He was a fine business man and full of energy. He was at one time a large contractor and had amassed a considerable fortune which was very much depleted by the drop in values of city property. Mr. Blair was a warm friend and a friend of the needy. He never refused to aid any one in distress. He was a member of the Knights of Honor and the Knights and Legion of Honor.

per The Florence Times February 24, 1894 - DEATH OF MR. W. E. BLAIR
On Monday morning last in the gray of the dawning day Mr. William Edward Blair, after a long illness, peacefully passed to that bourne whence no traveler returns. Born and reared in Florence, where he had passed an active and useful life, his death evoked general expressions of sorrow and it was the universal sentiment that our city had lost one of its most useful citizens. For many months Mr. Blair's health had been declining, and it was realized that his hold upon life was precarious.His funeral was held in the First Methodist Church on Tuesday morning. Dr. West conducting the service, assisted by Rev. Dr. Heard; and the remains, surrounded by many sympathizing friends, were laid to rest in our silent city of the dead. The pall-bearers were Messrs. Geo. P. Jones, Jas B. White, S.P. Rice, T.K. Ferguson, L.C. Hudson and D.C. O'Steen. Mr Blair had been one of our most useful citizens. Flor many years he had been Chief of Police of the city, in which position he was distinguished for his fidelity to his duties and for his remarkable courage and coolness upon trying occasions. During the late rapid progress of our city, he showed unusual business enterprise and became one of our largest property holders, though in the subsequent decline in prices he lost much that he had gained in judicious investments. He is survived, in his immediate family by five children, three boys and two girls, who fortunately will have the loving care of tender and sympathizing relatives. In Mr. Blair's death our town lost a valuable citizen, and many friends mourn his untimely departure. Peace to his ashes!

per The Sheffield Standard - Feb. 24, 1894 - LOCAL BREVITIES. W. E. Blair, a prominent and popular citizen of Florence, died on the 16th inst.
Feb 24, 1894 per The Florence Times - Since Mr. W. E. Blair's death, his brother, Mr. J. W. Blair, succeeds to the settlement of his estate as guardian of his children, and in accordance with the will, will not be required to give bond. Mr. Blair's life was insured for $15,000--$5,000 in the Legion of Honor, $2,000 in the Knights of Honor, and $8,000 in an old line company.

per The Florence Times - March 3, 1894 - MORTGAGE SALE - Under and by virtue of a mortgage executed on the 8th day of June, 1891, by W. E. Blair to M. W. Camper, and recorded in Volume 43 of Deeds on page 84, in the Probate Judge's office of Lauderdale county, Ala., I will proceed to sell at public auction, for cash, in front of the courthouse door at Florence, Lauderdale county, Ala., in the legal hours of sale, on Monday, March 26th, 1894; the following described real estate, to wit: Lot No. 8 (eight) in block No. 407 (four hundred and seven) as laid down on the plan of the town of Florence; said lot fronts fifty-five feet and three inches on the south side of College street, and runs south between parallel lines a distance of one hundred and thirty-eight and one-half feet to an alley fourteen feet wide, - all being and lying in Florence, Lauderdale county, Ala. The proceeds of said sale will be applied as directed by said mortgage. M. W. Camper, Mortgage

per The Florence Times - March 17, 1894 - MORTGAGE SALE OF VALUABLE CITY PROPERTY - Under and by virtue of the power contained in a mortgage made by W. E. Blair to the undersigned on the 13th day of January, 1891, I will on Monday, the 9th day of April, 1894, sell to the highest bidder for cash in front of the court-house in Florence, Alabama, the following lands in Lauderdale county, Alabama, viz; Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 13, 15, 16, 17, and 18, in block 407 in the plan of the city of Florence. Sale will be made in lawful hours and to pay the indebtedness in said mortgage mentioned and the expenses of sale. I will also on the said 9th day of April, 1894, in front of said courthouse in Florence, by virtue of the power contained in a certain other mortgage made by said W. E. Blair to me on 27th day of February, 1891, sell to the highest bidder for cash the following lands in said county and State, viz; Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18, in said block 407, in said city of Florence. The sale will be made in lawful hours, and out of the proceeds the indebtedness secured by the mortgage and the expenses of sale will be paid. This the 28th day of February, 1894. S. C. Brown, Mortgage. Camper, Mortgage


per The Florence Times - March 17, 1894 - MORTGAGE SALE - Under and by virtue of a mortgage executed on the 8th day of June, 1891, by W. E. Blair to M. W. Camper, and recorded in Volume 43 of Deeds on page 84, in the Probate Judge's office of Lauderdale county, Ala., I will proceed to sell at public auction, for cash, in front of the courthouse door at Florence, Lauderdale county, Ala., in the legal hours of sale, on Monday, March 26th, 1894; the following described real estate, to wit: Lot No. 8 (eight) in block No. 407 (four hundred and seven) as laid down on the plan of the town of Florence; said lot fronts fifty-five feet and three inches on the south side of College street, and runs south between parallel lines a distnace of one hundred and thirty-eight and one-half feet to an alley fourteen feet wide, - all being and lying in Florence, Lauderdale county, Ala. The proceeds of said sale will be applied as directed by said mortgage. M. W. Camper, Mortgage


per The Florence Times - April 7, 1894 - DEED OF TRUST SALE - Under and by virtu of a deed of trust, or mortgage, executed by W. E. Blair and C. C. Blair, his wife, to the Florence Land, Mining and Manufacturing Company, on the 18th day of December, 1888, and duly recorded in the Probate Office of Lauderdale county, in Deed Book 30, page 290, the undersigned, W. J. Wood, as assignee of the Florece Land, Mining and Manufacturing Company, will on Thursday, the 10 day fo May, 1894, sell at public auction, to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the court house in Florence, Ala., the following lands in Lauderdale County, Ala., viz: - Lots number four (4), five (5) and six (6) in Block 442. the said lots and block are numbered as above in the plan of the City of Florence as made by Chas. Boeckh, C. E. The proceeds of the sale will be applied to the payment of the expenses of the sale, including a reasonable attorney's fee, the amount due the undersigned and secured by said deed of trust, and the residue, if any, to the said W. E. Blair and C. C. Blair, his wife. This 7th day of April, 1894. W. J. Wood, Assignee.

per The Florence Times - April 14, 1894 - DEED OF TRUST SALE - Under and by virtue of a deed of trust, or mortgage, executed by W. E. Blair and C. C. Blair, his wife, to the Florence Land, Mining and Manufacturing Company, on the 18th day of December, 1888, and duly recorded in the Probate Office of Lauderdale county, in Deed Book 30, page 290, the undersigned, W. J. Wood, as assignee of the Florece Land, Mining and Manufacturing Company, will on Thursday, the 10 day fo May, 1894, sell at public auction, to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the court house in Florence, Ala., the following lands in Lauderdale County, Ala., viz: - Lots number four (4), five (5) and six (6) in Block 442. the said lots and block are numbered as above in the plan of the City of Florence as made by Chas. Boeckh, C. E. The proceeds of the sale will be applied to the payment of the expenses of the sale, including a reasonable attorney's fee, the amount due the undersigned and secured by said deed of trust, and the residue, if any, to the said W. E. Blair and C. C. Blair, his wife. This 7th day of April, 1894. W. J. Wood, Assignee.

per The Florence Times - April 21, 1894 - INSURANCE POLICY PAID. - On Monday last Mr. James H. Blair, guardian of the children of the late Wm. Edward Blair, received $9,869 from the Mutual Benefit Life Insurance company and the Knights of Honor - $2,000 from the K. of H., and the balance from the old line company. Mr. Blair's life was insured in the Mutual Benefit for $8,000 and the reduction indicated above was for an amount borrowed from the company. Besides the above Mr. Blair had $5,000 insurance in the Legion of Honor Order, which will be paid at an early day. These facts will be very gratifying to the friends of the beneficiaries. The amount from the Mutual Benefit company was received through Mr. Jas. T. Robinson, agent.

per The Florence Times - May 26, 1894 - DEED OF TRUST SALE - Under and by virtue of a deed of trust, or mortgage, executed by W. E. Blair and C. C. Blair, his wife, to the Florence Land, Mining and Manufacturing Company, on the 18th day of December, 1888, and duly recorded in the Probate Office of Lauderdale county, in Deed Book 30, page 290, the undersigned, W. J. Wood, as assignee of the Florence Land, Mining and Manufacturing Company, will on Thursday, the 10 day of May, 1894, sell at public auction, to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the court house in Florence, Ala., the following lands in Lauderdale County, Ala., viz: - Lots number four (4), five (5) and six (6) in Block 442. the said lots and block are numbered as above in the plan of the City of Florence as made by Chas. Boeckh, C. E. The proceeds of the sale will be applied to the payment of the expenses of the sale, including a reasonable attorney's fee, the amount due the undersigned and secured by said deed of trust, and the residue, if any, to the said W. E. Blair and C. C. Blair, his wife. This 7th day of April, 1894. W. J. Wood, Assignee.

per The Florence Times - June 2, 1894 - June 16, 1894 - June 23, 1894 - DEED OF TRUST SALE - Under and by virtue of a deed of trust, or mortgage, executed by W. E. Blair and C. C. Blair, his wife, to the Florence Land, Mining and Manufacturing Company, on the 18th day of December, 1888, and duly recorded in the Probate Office of Lauderdale county, in Deed Book 30, page 290, the undersigned, W. J. Wood, as assignee of the Florence Land, Mining and Manufacturing Company, will on Thursday, the 10 day fo May, 1894, sell at public auction, to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the court house in Florence, Ala., the following lands in Lauderdale County, Ala., viz: - Lots number four (4), five (5) and six (6) in Block 442. the said lots and block are numbered as above in the plan of the City of Florence as made by Chas. Boeckh, C. E. The proceeds of the sale will be applied to the payment of the expenses of the sale, including a reasonable attorney's fee, the amount due the undersigned and secured by said deed of trust, and the residue, if any, to the said W. E. Blair and C. C. Blair, his wife. This 7th day of April, 1894. W. J. Wood, Assignee.

per the Florence Times - Nov. 3, 1894 - MORTGAGE SALE - On Monday, the 26th of November, 1894, in front of the court-house in Florence, Alabama, we will sell to the highest bidder for cash, lots number 249 and 252 as laid down in the plan of the town of Florence, by the Cypress Land Company, on which there are sixteen small houses, under and by virtue of the powers conferred by a mortgage executed by W. E. Blair to William T. Price, guardian, on the 30th day of July, 1890, and recorded in the office of the Probate Judge of Lauderdale county, Ala., in Deed Book No. 40 on pate 435. J. K. Hines, as guardian of Maggie Wesson and Thomas Wesson, and Mary Wesson, Mattie Wesson.

per the Waterloo Tribune Sept. 24, 1897 - FIRE IN FLORENCE -Last Monday afternoon at four o'clock, the Florence fire alarm was sounded and every one rushed out to see the work of the flames. The fire was found to be in Blair's Quarters, between the cemetery and Patton School Building. Three small houses belonging to the heirs of Ed Blair were afire. There was a high wind raging and but for the promptness of the fire company, the entire row of houses would have burned. These houses are occupied by working people and are controlled by M. J. Dillare & Co. The Tribune man was there elbowing the crowd, as well as the representative of the Florence papers.

per The Florence Times - May 11, 1900 - VALUABLE PROPERTY SOLD - Mr. Jas. H. Blair, trustee for the heirs of the late Ed Blair, last week sold to Mr. J. E. F. Westmoreland the valuable residence East of the Patton School building. Mr. Westmoreland will make his new purchase his home.

per The Florence Times - June 14, 1912 - SOLDIERS' GRAVES - LIST OF THOSE INTERRED IN THE FLORENCE CITY CEMETERY - The ladies of the Florence Chapter of the Daughters of the Confederacy have furnished The Times with the following list of Confederate soldiers interred in the Florence cemetery, and requests us to say that any name omitted from the list will be promptly enrolled upon proper information. They also request the friends of these veterans to furnish sketches of these soldiers to file in the archives of the Chapter: - W. E.

Cornelia (Snellgrove) Blair

per The Florence Times Journal March 5, 1873 - Married lately at Memphis, Tennessee, Mr. Wm. E. Blair, of Florence, Ala. and Miss Cornelia Snellgrove, of Memphis. Ed is a gallant fellow and deserves the pretty and charming bride with which he is blesses.

per The North Star June 26, 1884 - Mr. and Mrs. John A. Thompson, of Clarendon, Ark., are visiting her sister, Mrs. W. E. Blair.

per The Gazette June 28, 1884 - Mr. John A. Thompson and wife, of Arkansas, are visiting her sister, Mrs. W. E. Blair.

per The North Star July 24, 1884 - Mrs. John T. Thompson of Clarenden, Ark., died at the residence of her sister, Mrs. W. E. Blair last Friday night. She had been in feeble health for a long time, and her husband brought her here only a few weeks ago, with the hope that the change of air might benefit her. Her remains were carried to Clarendon for interment.

per The Gazette July 26, 1884 - Mrs. Lottie M. Thompson, of Arkansas, who had been in very feeble health, for some time past, died last Friday night, at the residence of her sister Mrs. W. E. Blair. Her remains were carried home for burial.

per The Banner Aug. 1, 1889 - Mrs. W. E. Blair, is in very feeble health, and has been for some time, and but little hope is entertained of her recovery.

per The Banner Aug. 22, 1889 - Mrs. W. E. Blair is still very low.

per The Herald August 28, 1889 - DIED - Mrs. Cornelia Blair, the wife of Mr. W.E. Blair, a well know citizen, passed away on Sunday at 11 a.m. after a lingering illness, on consumption. the deceases was well know in Florence, and will be mourned by a large circle of friends, who regret her untimely death, being in the prime of young womanhood. The funeral took place in the Methodist Church on Monday, and a large concourse of friends accompanied the remains to the cemetery.

per The Banner Aug. 29, 1889 - DIED - At her home, in this place, on Sunday morning last, the 25th, Mrs. W.E. Blair, after an illness of several months. Mrs. Blair had been afflicted with that deceptive but none the less fatal disease Consumption - for several months, and while all that medical skill and kind friends could do for her restoration to health, that onward march of the destroyer could not by stayed, and she breathed her last, surrounded by her interesting family of little children, a sorrowing husband and weeping friends, as mentioned. The ways of Providence are past finding out, by poor frail mortals, here on earth, hence the great mystery, why the Mother should be taken and the children left without her watchful and guiding care along the rough and rugged path of life. As we bow submissively to His decree, in all things, we commend Him to the stricken Husband, and orphan children, as their guiding star, and when they go hence, they will meet with their mother on the shores of bright deliverance, where parting will be no more and sorrow can never come. Her remains were followed to their last resting place in the silent city of the dead, on Monday, by a long line of sympathizing friends, there to remain until the trump of God shall call her forth to the skies. Her grave was bedecked with beautiful flowers, by tender and loving hands.

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