Frank Jenkins, 1910
Madisonville Democrat, (Monroe Co. TN) Thursday, October 6, 1910, Page 5:
“Boone Blankenship Killed---As a result of an altercation, Boone Blankenship was shot by Hudon Griffith on last Sunday about noon, and died at 6 o’clock Monday morning. The tragedy occurred in the main highway in front of the home of John Ridges, known as the Atwood place, four miles east of Madisonville, and there were several witnesses to the shooting, including John Ridges.
From the best information obtainable, the two men became involved in the difficulty over a discussion and charges concerning some women of doubtful character.
Griffith’s friends claim that when the misunderstanding had reached an acute stage, Blankenship put his hand on his pocket as if to draw a pistol, whereupon Griffith pulled a pistol and shot him four times. One bullet passed through his throat just under the chin, another one in the shoulder, another through the bicep muscle into the body, a fourth through the wrist and into the body just above the hip, and all on the left side.
It is said the dead man had no pistol. Witnesses further state that Blankenship was drinking and that Griffith was not; the former having a pint bottle of whiskey in his pocket when shot.
Griffith made no attempt to escape, but gave himself up to the officers and is being held for a preliminary hearing set for Saturday of this week before Esq. Minnis.
Blankenship and Griffith were second cousins and both were married, the former being separated from his wife.”
Madisonville Democrat, (Monroe Co. TN) January 25, 1912:
“Circuit Court Proceedings---Hudon Griffith was charged with the murder of Boone Blankenship on Oct. 2, 1910. The trouble that resulted in the killing was originated over a bond that was signed by Griffith’s grandfather and his sons, for Frank Jenkins. Jenkins skipped and Taylor’s estate and sons were about to have to pay the bond. Griffith was a cousin to Frank Jenkins, and also to the dead man, and his mother was among the heirs who were to pay the bond. The proof showed because Griffith took an active interest in trying for the capture of Jenkins. Blankenship threatened him, and when they met the killing occurred.”