Rensselaer Republican, Volume 20, Number 46, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 19 July 1888 — FIFTY-THREE DAYS FAST. [ARTICLE]

FIFTY-THREE DAYS FAST.

John Zachar, of Racine, Wis., the Caledonian, faster, after an abstinence from food of fifty-three days, has at last been induced to eat. His story is a most remarkable one, and although much has been said, the true reason for his wonderful fast was not positively known until Thursday. Some time during last March or April Zachar and his father had some difficulty in reference to wages or a distribution of property. This so worked upon Zachar’s mind that he became morose which eventually led him to undertake to starve himself. The estrangement of father and son was complete, for during the entire time of the fast Zachar’s fathm- never visited him nor inquired after his health. An old friend of’ the family learned the facts and arranged for a meeting between father and son, which took place Wednesday. The two talked long and seriously over their difficulty, and finally matters were settled. Then Zachar declared that he would eat and endeavor to live. Accordingly he was given a few spoonfuls of milk, although he did not retain it, and at intervals during the afternoon took milk with pulverized crackers in it. This did not seem to give him any pain, but he could not retain a particle of the food. He seems unusually bright and feels certain that he will live. Zachar presents a revolting appearance. He has mot shaven since he commenced his fast; and his hair and beard hang down over his face. He is terribly emaciated, being reduced from eyes are dull and heavy, the lids drooping down over them as though there up. He reminds one of a person in the last stages of consumption. His skin

is dry and is like parchment, while his bones protrude prominently from all parts of his body. In reference to the new turn taken by the case, local physicians say that it is probable that with proper care, the patient may live and ultimately recover his wonted health.