N&W in 1912--Death

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Bluefield Daily Telegraph
February 18, 1912

FLAGMAN MEADE MEETS HORRIBLE DEATH
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Chaining up Broken Car on Rear of Train When Life Was Crushed Out by Wheels
    M. D. Meade, a flagman on a Crane Creek freight train, met a horrible death under his train last night at 11:50 o'clock, when the train was backed over him, crushing his life out instantly.
    The unfortunate young man was engaged in chaining up a broken car on the rear of the train, necessitated by a broken drawhead, when without a moment's warning the pusher engine backed the cars down upon him, the wheels passing over him, completely severing the right leg from the body, crushing the left leg and mangling the body.  The accident happened at Flat Top yards.
    Mr. Meade was a most popular young man, not only with railroaders but with all who knew him.  He had been in the service of the Norfolk and Western for four years, filled his position in a most acceptable manner and stood second for promotion.  He had served as extra passenger brakeman a number of times, having at one time what is known as the Gary run.  He is survived by a number of relatives, two of his brothers, Albert and Will, residing in this city and who are also employed by the railroad company, and one sister, Mrs. G. W. Parks, also residing here.  His parents live at Honaker, Va., and are prominent in that section. He was a member of the Elks and Eagles, and carried insurance with his mother as beneficiary.
    The remains were brought to this city early this morning, arriving here about 1 o'clock, and were taken to the Hawkins Undertaking establishment, where they will be prepared for interment.  His parents at Honaker were notified immediately and will arrive today to take charge of the remains which will be taken to his old home at Honaker for interment.
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[Apparently modern journalists have decided that "horrific" is more horrible than "horrible" as used by the above-article's journalist.  Maybe when "horrific" becomes shop worn journalists of the future will switch back to "horrible."]

Gordon Hamilton
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