Clay Weddel

WEDDEL, MOREHEARD

Posted By: Beverly Gerdts (email)
Date: 5/24/2026 at 09:17:09

Columbus Safeguard, Columbus Junction, IA
Thursday March 24, 1881
Page 3

On Tuesday last our town was the scene of the worst tragedy in its history. In the morning, a young man by the name of Clay Weddel, came down from Wilton, as it afterward transpired with the express purpose of committing suicide. He passed the forenoon with acquaintances here who failed to notice anything peculiar about his manner and he appeared to be in his usual spirits. About half past twelve he started for the depot, speaking to several on his way down. Reaching the east side of the deport building, he drew a 32 caliber Smith & Wesson revolver and pointing it toward his head fired, the ball entering about an inch above the right ear and remaining lodged in the brain.

The report attracted the attention of several persons in the immediate vicinity who saw him fall and went to his assistance, but life was extinct in a few moments. He was carried to the Hedrick House and his body placed in a casket and sent home on the six o'clock passenger. Upon his person was found a gold watch and chain and $130 in money. In his pocket were two letters, on addressed to his friend, Nash Morehead; a second to his brother.