Re: David and Mary (Cooper) Dillman/Eaton,Oh
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In reply to:
Re: David and Mary (Cooper) Dillman/Eaton,Oh
3/15/01
Terry: I don't know if this is your David, but it is in the right place. Ran across the article in some very old notes I had on the Dillman family. Perhaps it will give you some clues, if nothing else.
No mention is made of either wife by name, nor any of his children, but perhaps you might find additional information in newspaper archives if they still exist.
June
THE EVENING ITEM
RICHMOND, IND.WEEKLY
June 7, 1879
THE LAST RESORT
One of the saddest occurances which is often in the experience of a newspaper to chronical was the suicide, last Monday, of DAVID DILLMAN, a well-to-do farmer residing near Eaton, Ohio. He was 64 years of age, owned a large farm well stocked and improved, and was well provided for besides.He had a large family, all of whom were married and in good circumstances.
The cause of this sad act is traced to his second marriage. His first wife died many years ago, and about fourteen years ago he married a second time, his second wife having a son when he married her.They lived happily together until a short time since, when trouble arose, it is said from the time of the son's attaining his majority.Although the old man had cared for him as well, and treated him as his own son. he repaid him with the basest ingratitude, continually making trouble until a short time since he induced his mother to seperate from and sue the old man for a divorce, which was done, they fixing their claim for alimony at $8,000 or thereabouts.This so effected Mr. Dillman's mind that after making every attempt at reconciliation, he even offered to give them his farm if they would withdraw the suit.They refused, the son stating, it is said, that they "didn't want the farm. It was money they were after."Mr. Dillman then went home, made all his arrangements, even to buying his coffin and selecting the person (a life-long friend) whom he wished to preach his funeral sermon, and Monday morning, leaving a note telling his family where they would find him, went to the carriage house and shot himself through the heart with his rifle.He was found soon after by one of his children.
His funeral at the little chapel near his house was largely attended.The respects with which he was regarded by his acquaintances may be inferred from the fact everyone, man, woman, and child, at the chapel, wept over the remains.He was buried by the side of his first wife.