Mrs. Gus Erickson is in a critical condition at this time. She and her two small daughters were returning from the Children’s Day program at Maple Hill, Sunday evening, when the buggy tongue came down. The horses became frightened and ran away. Mrs. Erickson held to the lines and was dragged quite a distance. She finally had to let the horses go, as she became paralyzed and unable to move, although she was conscious all the time. The little girls jumped from the buggy and were unhurt. Their cries soon brought help and Mrs. Erickson was taken to Mr. Ruef’s place until a doctor could reach her. There proved to be no broken bones, but she is so badly bruised, and still paralyzed. We hope she will recover soon. (Estherville Enterprise, Estherville, IA, June 16, 1915)

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Mrs. Gus Erickson Dies
Victim of Runaway Accident Near Maple Hill Three Weeks Ago

Mrs. Gus Erickson of Maple Hill but formerly of Marseilles, Illinois, died at her home near Maple Hill Sunday [July 4, 1915] evening. Mrs. Erickson and two children were returning from Maple Hill when the tongue of the buggy dropped down which frightened the team and caused a run away, throwing all occupants out. The buggy passed over Mrs. Erickson’s spine, which caused paralysis. Since the accident she has been in a very critical condition until death relieved her from her suffering. (Vindicator and Republican, Estherville, IA, July 7, 1915/ Graettinger Times, Graettinger, IA, July 8, 1915))

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Mrs. Erickson died at her home south of Maple Hill, Sunday evening, from injuries she received in a runaway coming home from Children’s Day program. We extend our sympathy to the husband and children. Funeral services to be held at the church in Maple Hill, Tuesday. (Estherville Enterprise, Estherville, IA, July 7, 1915)

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Estherville Woman Dies From Injuries

Estherville, Ia., July 9 – Mrs. Gus Erickson of Maple Hill died at her home Monday as a result of injuries received three weeks ago in a runaway during which the tongue came down and she was dragged to the ground receiving injuries which brought on paralysis. Every effort was made to prolong or save her life and it was thought that by having her neck set by Dr. C. Gaard, a chiropractor, that she would live. The Erickson family lived at Marseille, Ill. (Emmetsburg Democrat, Emmetsburg, IA, July 14, 1915)

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Mrs. Gus Erickson of Maple Hill who was recently injured when their team ran away, died last week from the effects. (Algona Upper Des Moines, Algona, IA, July 14, 1915)