Thomas Nathaniel Browning

Dec. 1, 1869 newspaper: Nathaniel was badly injured at the Otis & Squire Planing Mill in Normal on Nov. 30, 1869 while assisting to move a steam engine, and it was left standing upon a platform that gave way and the engine fell directly upon him, crushing him to the ground. A bar of iron was thrust through his leg, the spine was crushed and he had minor bruises on his body and limbs. The lower part of his body is paralyzed and injuries are such that he cannot possibly recover. June 25, 1870 newspaper: Nathaniel died on June 24 and had been an invalid since his accident. Fireman of the Young America Engine & Hose Company No. 9, of whom he was one, held a benefit for him at Schroeder's Opera House on Wed, Dec. 15, 1869. They draped the engine house in mourning and the bells tolled at his death. Accompanied by the band, they attended his funeral in a body on Friday afternoon.* Reference: Find A Grave Memorial - SmartCopy: Aug 28 2022, 2:06:00 UTC