John R. Edgar - Captain John Edgar Obituary

Obituary from July 12, 1845 Columbia Democrat reports on this drowning.

A MELANCH0LY ACCIDENT We regret to learn that Capt, JOHN EDGAR, of Espytown, while attempting to get on board his boat, at the wharf Philadelphia, on the evening of tin? 3d insi. fell into the water and was drowned, Mr. Edgar was a good mechanic and a good citizen. He built the first boat that run upon tho North Branch Canal, and laid the rails upon the Mauch Chunk Rail Road which was about the first Rail Road built in the United Stales. He leaves a widow and a large family of children lo mourn their loss. After the above was in type, or. Thurs day afternoon, we received the . following letter from Judge Donaldson, which was publish for the gratification of the friends. - Merchant' Hold, Philadelphia, July "7 COL. H. WEBB, I have been absent for several weeks to New England, and on my return to this City, I learned that Captain John Edgar, of Espytown, was drowned on Thursday evening last, at Bolton's Wharf, on the Delaware, at this place, and that his body was found yesterday. As Capt Edgar was from our County, I went down lo the Wharf this morning to learn what disposition had been made of his body & was gratified to learn that Major J .M. Bolton had made all necessary arrangements for his burial. He had his remains taken to Ronaldson's Cemetery and there interred in his family vault. I attended his funeral this morning, and while I regretted a casualty which had deprived our community of a useful citizen, and an interesting family of an affectionate husband and father, I was pleased with the kindness and attention of Major Bolton, to an unfortunate stranger in a strange place. Such disinterested conduct so seldom exhibited, merits and should receive our highest commendation. While the kindred and friends of Capn Edgar mourn his untimely departure, they will have much consolation in knowing that his body reposes quietly in Ronaldson's Cemetery, one of the great and beautiful Cities of the dead. Very respectfully yours. "W. DONALDSON"

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