Rensselaer Journal, Volume 10, Number 48, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 9 May 1901 — MET A WATERY DEATH. [ARTICLE]

MET A WATERY DEATH.

Forra Baxter Drowned In a Dredge Ditch. Forra Baxter, foreman of the Otis ranch, near Rose Lawn, was drowned in a dredge ditch Sunday evening. With a companion he was returning home in a single buggy and had to cross a bridge over a dredge ditch. The bridge had been weakened by the high waters and was marked dangerous. It was leaning to one side and Baxter’s companion got out of the buggy and crossed on foot. Baxter, however, decided to drive over. Owing to the shaky condition of the bridge the horse became frightened and jumped from the bridge into the water. Baxter was thrown under the buggy and was not seen again until his body was recovered a short distance below the bridge Monday. The horse tried to reach the shore, but was drowned in sight of Baxter’s companion. Baxter was 25 years of age.