It Was Reported in the PRESS
"It now develops that the new house at Seventh street and Garrison avenue is to be built and occupied by Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Hall, and not by their son Ed Hall Jr.
Ed was only joking when he talked to the reporter Saturday. The present Hall home is to be rented when the new house is ready for their occupancy.
The house and lot were sold to make ground available for where Carthage Public Library was built at a reduced price in honor of deceased daughter, Ruth Hall-Vanderford, whose tablet is on the wall across from one honoring Andrew Carnegie."
The homestead was reported by a relative "great niece" to have been an estate called HALLWOOD & that a tragic fire had occurred killing the family.
______________
CARTHAGE EVENING PRESS
SATURDAY APRIL 29, 1916
THREE LOSE LIVES AS RESULT OF FIRE AT HALLWOOD FARM
Mrs. W. E. Hall and Maid Die in Flames, While Former's Son, Ed Succumbs at Hospital This Afternoon to Burns Received in Attempt to Save His Mother
ONE OF BODIES RECOVERED
Impossible to Identify charred Remains Taken From Ruins of $10,000 Home Northwest of Carthage - Search for Other Victim Continues - Origin of blaze, Which Started After Family Retired for Night is Mystery
Mrs. W. E. Hall and a girl in her employ, Miss Alma Shaw, died in the fire which at 10 o'clock last night destroyed the commodious residence at [800 acre] HALLWOOD Farm, five mile northwest of Carthage,[*see footnote for location] and Mrs. Hall's son, Ed M. Hall received burns in an attempt to save his mother, which resulted in his death at the Carthage hospital at 3 o'clock this afternoon.
The only occupants of the house were Mrs. Hall and her son, Ed and Miss Shaw. they had retired early and were asleep when the fire started. Ed Hall was roused from his slumber by the screams of his mother and at the same time he smelled smoke in the room. Without waiting to dress, he rushed to his mother's room, with a view to rescuing her but found her room empty.
He then groped his way through the passages of the house and into certain rooms, hunting for his mother.
Thinking she had probably gone on out of doors, he passed out of the house and hunted for her outdoors and call for her.
Getting no trace of her in this way, he returned to the house seeking his mother inside once more, and it was on this return trip to the house that he received his terrible burns. The fire had been gaining headway in the meantime and, after seeking his mother in all reachable portions of the building and even in some places where he should have not risked going, he had to give up the search. The first arrival of neighbors and of the families of the help who lived on the farm found Ed pacing up and down the west side of the house calling for his mother, unmindful of his surroundings or of other people. He had to be restrained from again entering the house. By the time it was considered impracticable to get into the house for further search. It was Ed Hall's statement made at this time which supplies the story of what happened so far as known.
Search for Bodies Begins
It was thought possible last night that Mrs. Hall and Miss Shaw had escaped the burning building and wandered away in a semi-conscious condition or had fallen unconscious somewhere. But this was only a hope and a diligent search showed that it had no foundation. In fact several parties who later were able to stand near the west foundation after the building had fallen in, were sure they could detect the odor of burned flesh.
Today it was conceded that the bodies of the two women were buried in the burning embers, and a search for them began.
The charred remains of one of the women were found about 10:30 o'clock this morning. Only the trunk of the body was recovered and it was impossible to tell which of the women's body it was. However, the location of the place where the body was lying in the ruins led to the belief that it was that of Mrs. Hall, it being at the front of the house, beneath where the head of the stairway had been. The body was brought to the morgue of the Knell Undertaking Company. The search for the other body continues. No funeral arrangements have been made.
About midnight, Ed Hall was taken to the Carthage hospital for treatment. A physician from Carthage had been summoned and rendered first aid treatment. From the first it was realized that he was in a dangerous condition. His body was black from head to foot, his lips and eyes were swollen and some of his burns seemed severe. However, as he was very scantily clad, wearing only his night clothes, when he was fighting his way through the burning building, there was little on him to burn and make deep wounds. It was hoped for this reason that most of his burns were superficial. At the hospital today it was found that his injuries were much more severe than first thought and his condition was at noon pronounced very grave indeed.
Tom Hall, of this city, son of Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Hall, received word of the fire and reached the burning residence shortly after 11 o'clock, anxious to do all he could to recover his mother or render any aid possible. He was too late, however, to accomplish anything except help look after his injured brother, Ed. This he did efficiently. He returned to the ruins of the farm home for awhile this morning to direct the work designed to secure recovery of the remains of the burned women.
Firemen Rushed to Scene
A large number of Carthage people heard of the fire and drove out in buggies and automobiles last night to watch the fire in progress and render any help possible, but there was nothing that they could do. Chief S. T. Mathews and Fireman James Mealey, of the Carthage fire department, were taken out to the farm in a taxicab, arriving there about midnight. They took with them six of the small chemical fire extinguishers of which the department has a supply, but they could do nothing, as the walls had fallen in and lay in the basement, a mass of glowing coals.
Some garments found in the yard near the house during the fire was interpreted by some to mean that Miss Shaw when roused by the fire, had paused in an effort to save some of the things in the house by throwing them out of a window, and thus waited too long in saving herself.
The HALLWOOD farm is equipped with an elaborate water system, including a supply of water for all parts of the residence, but the falling of the burning walls early in the fire had broken and disabled these so as to incapacitate the whole system. Water was being hauled in wagon today for extinguishing the extensive bed of coals in the basement, so as to recover the bodies of the two women burned in the fire. As the water works system on the farm was so disabled, this was the only way in which it was possible to fight the smoldering remnants of the fire. However, a plumber was busy today repairing the system and installing a pipe to carry water to the fire.
Curious Not Allowed on Grounds
Swarms of people drove out to HALLWOOD farm this morning to see the ruins, but the outer gates of the place were locked and a man was stationed at the gate to announce that all visitors would have to be kept out, so that workmen would not be hindered or delayed in their efforts to recover the remains of the two women who were burned to death.
The origin of the fire is unknown, but it is thought probable that it started int he kitchen or at least in the back part of the house, as the rear portion of the building was most in flames when the fire was discovered.
No other of the numerous buildings on the farm were burned. The wind was in a favorable direction, blowing the flames, smoke and embers out over the front lawn and across the road where there were no buildings. There are two or three residences on the place grouped south of the main residence, occupied by the families of men employed on the farm. There were also several barns, sheds and an office building, located at various points on the east and west of the residence. Had the wind been in any other direction than the south, therefore, some of these buildings would have probably burned.
The HALLWOOD home was a large modern, frame building of about 15 rooms, well furnished. The loss is estimated at $10,000 partially covered by insurance.
Daughter of Webb City's Founder
Mrs. Hall, who was the daughter of John C. Webb, the founder of Webb City, was born September 15, 1853 in Overt county, Tennessee and came to Jasper county with her parents in 1857. Her father became wealthy from mines on his lands.
She was married to W. E. Hall in 1871.
About 40 years ago the present HALLWOOD farm was purchased and for a time Mr. and Mrs. Hall resided there. Then they moved to Carthage. This city was Mrs. Hall's home until after Mr. Hall died about nine years ago. Since leaving Carthage she and her son had resided on the farm.
The surviving relatives are the son, C. T. Hall and one brother E. T. Webb of Webb City. One other son, Winston Hall, and a daughter, Mrs. Ruth Hall Vanderford, are dead.
Noted for Philanthropy
Mrs. Hall was noted for her philanthropy, although she made no great show of charity work that she did. Many young people, less fortunate financially than she, were indebted to her for their privileges of attending school. She was one of the most widely and favorable known women of the county.
She formerly was one of the most substantial members of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, of this city, having been active in the work of that church and many of the church organization. She was the organizer of the missionary society of the church and took an active part in promoting other activities. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, of Webb City at the time of her death.
She formerly was active in the Eastern Star Lodge and other clubs and lodges. She was a member of the Rocking Chair Club, the Ianthe-Vincent C.L.S.C. and the Sixth Street.
* * * * *
CARTHAGE EVENING PRESS
MAY 1, 1916
TRIPLE FUNERAL SERVICE HELD FOR FIRE VICTIMS
HUNDREDS ASSEMBLE FOR IMPRESSIVE RITES OVER MRS. W. E. HALL, SON ED
AND MISS ALMA SHAW
THREE MINISTERS CONDUCT OBSEQUIES
One of the largest funerals ever held in Carthage was the triple funeral held at the First Methodist church at 2:30 o'clock over the remains of Mrs. W. E. Hall, her son, Ed M. Hall and her maid, Miss Alma Shaw, who lost their lives in the HALLWOOD fire Friday night. The charred remains of Mrs. Hall and Miss Alma Shaw were in one casket. The remains of Ed Hall, who died Saturday afternoon from his burns, were in a separate coffin. The bodies were laid to rest in the mausoleum in Park Cemetery.
The funeral was characterized by the large number of lodges and societies who attended in bodies.
Floral Offerings Beautiful
A wealth of beautiful floral tributes from societies and individuals were banked on and around the caskets.
Rev. R. N. Allen of Lexington, Mo., who was Mrs. Hall's pastor while in charge of the Methodist church, South, here some years ago, conducted the funeral. He was assisted by Rev. C. A. Powers, of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, at Webb City, and Rev. W. G. Clinton, pastor of the First Methodist church, where the funeral was held.
At the Mausoleum the Eastern Star lodge had charge of the funeral rites over Mrs. Hall, and the Elks Lodge had charge of the services over Ed Hall.
Impressive Church Services
At the opening of the funeral obsequies this afternoon, the preachers met the two caskets at the door of the church and proceeded them to the altar, while Rev. R. N. Allen read the scriptures as supplied by the ritual.
"Lead Kindly Light," was then sung by a quartet composed of Mr. and Mrs. J. T. Wallace, Mrs. Marian Wright Powers and Joseph Stebbins, of Kansas City, with Miss Lua Holiday as accompanist.
Rev. C. A. Powers of the Webb City Methodist church, South, read the ninetieth Psalm.
"Saved by Grace," was sung by the quartet.
Dr. W. G. Clinton, pastor of the First Methodist church, where the funeral was held, read the fifteenth chapter of First Corinthians, following which Rev. Mr. Powers offered prayer.
*FOOTNOTE:
Location of HALLWOOD Farm is from Carthage, driving west out of town on State Highway 96, which is north of the old U.S. Route 66, there is a sweeping curve in the road. At that curve, turn right to the North on County Road 180. Cross a small bridge and go north about a mile and at the intersection of Kafir Road and County Road 180 on the north east corner is what remains of HALLWOOD Farm.
Information below provided by 475261185
Lexington Intelligencer, May 05, 1916
Lexington, Mo.
A Tragic Death
Rev. R.N. Allen received a telegram Saturday morning from C.T. Hall, Carthage, Mo., stating that his mother's country home, "Hallwood," burned Friday night, and that his mother, Mrs. W.A. Hall and the latter's maid, Alma Shaw, burned to death. Ed Hall, a son was so badly injured, that he died Saturday afternoon.
Mrs. W.A. Hall had been a frequent visitor in Lexington, and has many dear friends here who will mourn her tragic death.
"It now develops that the new house at Seventh street and Garrison avenue is to be built and occupied by Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Hall, and not by their son Ed Hall Jr.
Ed was only joking when he talked to the reporter Saturday. The present Hall home is to be rented when the new house is ready for their occupancy.
The house and lot were sold to make ground available for where Carthage Public Library was built at a reduced price in honor of deceased daughter, Ruth Hall-Vanderford, whose tablet is on the wall across from one honoring Andrew Carnegie."
The homestead was reported by a relative "great niece" to have been an estate called HALLWOOD & that a tragic fire had occurred killing the family.
______________
CARTHAGE EVENING PRESS
SATURDAY APRIL 29, 1916
THREE LOSE LIVES AS RESULT OF FIRE AT HALLWOOD FARM
Mrs. W. E. Hall and Maid Die in Flames, While Former's Son, Ed Succumbs at Hospital This Afternoon to Burns Received in Attempt to Save His Mother
ONE OF BODIES RECOVERED
Impossible to Identify charred Remains Taken From Ruins of $10,000 Home Northwest of Carthage - Search for Other Victim Continues - Origin of blaze, Which Started After Family Retired for Night is Mystery
Mrs. W. E. Hall and a girl in her employ, Miss Alma Shaw, died in the fire which at 10 o'clock last night destroyed the commodious residence at [800 acre] HALLWOOD Farm, five mile northwest of Carthage,[*see footnote for location] and Mrs. Hall's son, Ed M. Hall received burns in an attempt to save his mother, which resulted in his death at the Carthage hospital at 3 o'clock this afternoon.
The only occupants of the house were Mrs. Hall and her son, Ed and Miss Shaw. they had retired early and were asleep when the fire started. Ed Hall was roused from his slumber by the screams of his mother and at the same time he smelled smoke in the room. Without waiting to dress, he rushed to his mother's room, with a view to rescuing her but found her room empty.
He then groped his way through the passages of the house and into certain rooms, hunting for his mother.
Thinking she had probably gone on out of doors, he passed out of the house and hunted for her outdoors and call for her.
Getting no trace of her in this way, he returned to the house seeking his mother inside once more, and it was on this return trip to the house that he received his terrible burns. The fire had been gaining headway in the meantime and, after seeking his mother in all reachable portions of the building and even in some places where he should have not risked going, he had to give up the search. The first arrival of neighbors and of the families of the help who lived on the farm found Ed pacing up and down the west side of the house calling for his mother, unmindful of his surroundings or of other people. He had to be restrained from again entering the house. By the time it was considered impracticable to get into the house for further search. It was Ed Hall's statement made at this time which supplies the story of what happened so far as known.
Search for Bodies Begins
It was thought possible last night that Mrs. Hall and Miss Shaw had escaped the burning building and wandered away in a semi-conscious condition or had fallen unconscious somewhere. But this was only a hope and a diligent search showed that it had no foundation. In fact several parties who later were able to stand near the west foundation after the building had fallen in, were sure they could detect the odor of burned flesh.
Today it was conceded that the bodies of the two women were buried in the burning embers, and a search for them began.
The charred remains of one of the women were found about 10:30 o'clock this morning. Only the trunk of the body was recovered and it was impossible to tell which of the women's body it was. However, the location of the place where the body was lying in the ruins led to the belief that it was that of Mrs. Hall, it being at the front of the house, beneath where the head of the stairway had been. The body was brought to the morgue of the Knell Undertaking Company. The search for the other body continues. No funeral arrangements have been made.
About midnight, Ed Hall was taken to the Carthage hospital for treatment. A physician from Carthage had been summoned and rendered first aid treatment. From the first it was realized that he was in a dangerous condition. His body was black from head to foot, his lips and eyes were swollen and some of his burns seemed severe. However, as he was very scantily clad, wearing only his night clothes, when he was fighting his way through the burning building, there was little on him to burn and make deep wounds. It was hoped for this reason that most of his burns were superficial. At the hospital today it was found that his injuries were much more severe than first thought and his condition was at noon pronounced very grave indeed.
Tom Hall, of this city, son of Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Hall, received word of the fire and reached the burning residence shortly after 11 o'clock, anxious to do all he could to recover his mother or render any aid possible. He was too late, however, to accomplish anything except help look after his injured brother, Ed. This he did efficiently. He returned to the ruins of the farm home for awhile this morning to direct the work designed to secure recovery of the remains of the burned women.
Firemen Rushed to Scene
A large number of Carthage people heard of the fire and drove out in buggies and automobiles last night to watch the fire in progress and render any help possible, but there was nothing that they could do. Chief S. T. Mathews and Fireman James Mealey, of the Carthage fire department, were taken out to the farm in a taxicab, arriving there about midnight. They took with them six of the small chemical fire extinguishers of which the department has a supply, but they could do nothing, as the walls had fallen in and lay in the basement, a mass of glowing coals.
Some garments found in the yard near the house during the fire was interpreted by some to mean that Miss Shaw when roused by the fire, had paused in an effort to save some of the things in the house by throwing them out of a window, and thus waited too long in saving herself.
The HALLWOOD farm is equipped with an elaborate water system, including a supply of water for all parts of the residence, but the falling of the burning walls early in the fire had broken and disabled these so as to incapacitate the whole system. Water was being hauled in wagon today for extinguishing the extensive bed of coals in the basement, so as to recover the bodies of the two women burned in the fire. As the water works system on the farm was so disabled, this was the only way in which it was possible to fight the smoldering remnants of the fire. However, a plumber was busy today repairing the system and installing a pipe to carry water to the fire.
Curious Not Allowed on Grounds
Swarms of people drove out to HALLWOOD farm this morning to see the ruins, but the outer gates of the place were locked and a man was stationed at the gate to announce that all visitors would have to be kept out, so that workmen would not be hindered or delayed in their efforts to recover the remains of the two women who were burned to death.
The origin of the fire is unknown, but it is thought probable that it started int he kitchen or at least in the back part of the house, as the rear portion of the building was most in flames when the fire was discovered.
No other of the numerous buildings on the farm were burned. The wind was in a favorable direction, blowing the flames, smoke and embers out over the front lawn and across the road where there were no buildings. There are two or three residences on the place grouped south of the main residence, occupied by the families of men employed on the farm. There were also several barns, sheds and an office building, located at various points on the east and west of the residence. Had the wind been in any other direction than the south, therefore, some of these buildings would have probably burned.
The HALLWOOD home was a large modern, frame building of about 15 rooms, well furnished. The loss is estimated at $10,000 partially covered by insurance.
Daughter of Webb City's Founder
Mrs. Hall, who was the daughter of John C. Webb, the founder of Webb City, was born September 15, 1853 in Overt county, Tennessee and came to Jasper county with her parents in 1857. Her father became wealthy from mines on his lands.
She was married to W. E. Hall in 1871.
About 40 years ago the present HALLWOOD farm was purchased and for a time Mr. and Mrs. Hall resided there. Then they moved to Carthage. This city was Mrs. Hall's home until after Mr. Hall died about nine years ago. Since leaving Carthage she and her son had resided on the farm.
The surviving relatives are the son, C. T. Hall and one brother E. T. Webb of Webb City. One other son, Winston Hall, and a daughter, Mrs. Ruth Hall Vanderford, are dead.
Noted for Philanthropy
Mrs. Hall was noted for her philanthropy, although she made no great show of charity work that she did. Many young people, less fortunate financially than she, were indebted to her for their privileges of attending school. She was one of the most widely and favorable known women of the county.
She formerly was one of the most substantial members of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, of this city, having been active in the work of that church and many of the church organization. She was the organizer of the missionary society of the church and took an active part in promoting other activities. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, of Webb City at the time of her death.
She formerly was active in the Eastern Star Lodge and other clubs and lodges. She was a member of the Rocking Chair Club, the Ianthe-Vincent C.L.S.C. and the Sixth Street.
* * * * *
CARTHAGE EVENING PRESS
MAY 1, 1916
TRIPLE FUNERAL SERVICE HELD FOR FIRE VICTIMS
HUNDREDS ASSEMBLE FOR IMPRESSIVE RITES OVER MRS. W. E. HALL, SON ED
AND MISS ALMA SHAW
THREE MINISTERS CONDUCT OBSEQUIES
One of the largest funerals ever held in Carthage was the triple funeral held at the First Methodist church at 2:30 o'clock over the remains of Mrs. W. E. Hall, her son, Ed M. Hall and her maid, Miss Alma Shaw, who lost their lives in the HALLWOOD fire Friday night. The charred remains of Mrs. Hall and Miss Alma Shaw were in one casket. The remains of Ed Hall, who died Saturday afternoon from his burns, were in a separate coffin. The bodies were laid to rest in the mausoleum in Park Cemetery.
The funeral was characterized by the large number of lodges and societies who attended in bodies.
Floral Offerings Beautiful
A wealth of beautiful floral tributes from societies and individuals were banked on and around the caskets.
Rev. R. N. Allen of Lexington, Mo., who was Mrs. Hall's pastor while in charge of the Methodist church, South, here some years ago, conducted the funeral. He was assisted by Rev. C. A. Powers, of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, at Webb City, and Rev. W. G. Clinton, pastor of the First Methodist church, where the funeral was held.
At the Mausoleum the Eastern Star lodge had charge of the funeral rites over Mrs. Hall, and the Elks Lodge had charge of the services over Ed Hall.
Impressive Church Services
At the opening of the funeral obsequies this afternoon, the preachers met the two caskets at the door of the church and proceeded them to the altar, while Rev. R. N. Allen read the scriptures as supplied by the ritual.
"Lead Kindly Light," was then sung by a quartet composed of Mr. and Mrs. J. T. Wallace, Mrs. Marian Wright Powers and Joseph Stebbins, of Kansas City, with Miss Lua Holiday as accompanist.
Rev. C. A. Powers of the Webb City Methodist church, South, read the ninetieth Psalm.
"Saved by Grace," was sung by the quartet.
Dr. W. G. Clinton, pastor of the First Methodist church, where the funeral was held, read the fifteenth chapter of First Corinthians, following which Rev. Mr. Powers offered prayer.
*FOOTNOTE:
Location of HALLWOOD Farm is from Carthage, driving west out of town on State Highway 96, which is north of the old U.S. Route 66, there is a sweeping curve in the road. At that curve, turn right to the North on County Road 180. Cross a small bridge and go north about a mile and at the intersection of Kafir Road and County Road 180 on the north east corner is what remains of HALLWOOD Farm.
Information below provided by 475261185
Lexington Intelligencer, May 05, 1916
Lexington, Mo.
A Tragic Death
Rev. R.N. Allen received a telegram Saturday morning from C.T. Hall, Carthage, Mo., stating that his mother's country home, "Hallwood," burned Friday night, and that his mother, Mrs. W.A. Hall and the latter's maid, Alma Shaw, burned to death. Ed Hall, a son was so badly injured, that he died Saturday afternoon.
Mrs. W.A. Hall had been a frequent visitor in Lexington, and has many dear friends here who will mourn her tragic death.
It Was Reported in the PRESS
"It now develops that the new house at Seventh street and Garrison avenue is to be built and occupied by Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Hall, and not by their son Ed Hall Jr.
Ed was only joking when he talked to the reporter Saturday. The present Hall home is to be rented when the new house is ready for their occupancy.
The house and lot were sold to make ground available for where Carthage Public Library was built at a reduced price in honor of deceased daughter, Ruth Hall-Vanderford, whose tablet is on the wall across from one honoring Andrew Carnegie."
The homestead was reported by a relative "great niece" to have been an estate called HALLWOOD & that a tragic fire had occurred killing the family.
______________
CARTHAGE EVENING PRESS
SATURDAY APRIL 29, 1916
THREE LOSE LIVES AS RESULT OF FIRE AT HALLWOOD FARM
Mrs. W. E. Hall and Maid Die in Flames, While Former's Son, Ed Succumbs at Hospital This Afternoon to Burns Received in Attempt to Save His Mother
ONE OF BODIES RECOVERED
Impossible to Identify charred Remains Taken From Ruins of $10,000 Home Northwest of Carthage - Search for Other Victim Continues - Origin of blaze, Which Started After Family Retired for Night is Mystery
Mrs. W. E. Hall and a girl in her employ, Miss Alma Shaw, died in the fire which at 10 o'clock last night destroyed the commodious residence at [800 acre] HALLWOOD Farm, five mile northwest of Carthage,[*see footnote for location] and Mrs. Hall's son, Ed M. Hall received burns in an attempt to save his mother, which resulted in his death at the Carthage hospital at 3 o'clock this afternoon.
The only occupants of the house were Mrs. Hall and her son, Ed and Miss Shaw. they had retired early and were asleep when the fire started. Ed Hall was roused from his slumber by the screams of his mother and at the same time he smelled smoke in the room. Without waiting to dress, he rushed to his mother's room, with a view to rescuing her but found her room empty.
He then groped his way through the passages of the house and into certain rooms, hunting for his mother.
Thinking she had probably gone on out of doors, he passed out of the house and hunted for her outdoors and call for her.
Getting no trace of her in this way, he returned to the house seeking his mother inside once more, and it was on this return trip to the house that he received his terrible burns. The fire had been gaining headway in the meantime and, after seeking his mother in all reachable portions of the building and even in some places where he should have not risked going, he had to give up the search. The first arrival of neighbors and of the families of the help who lived on the farm found Ed pacing up and down the west side of the house calling for his mother, unmindful of his surroundings or of other people. He had to be restrained from again entering the house. By the time it was considered impracticable to get into the house for further search. It was Ed Hall's statement made at this time which supplies the story of what happened so far as known.
Search for Bodies Begins
It was thought possible last night that Mrs. Hall and Miss Shaw had escaped the burning building and wandered away in a semi-conscious condition or had fallen unconscious somewhere. But this was only a hope and a diligent search showed that it had no foundation. In fact several parties who later were able to stand near the west foundation after the building had fallen in, were sure they could detect the odor of burned flesh.
Today it was conceded that the bodies of the two women were buried in the burning embers, and a search for them began.
The charred remains of one of the women were found about 10:30 o'clock this morning. Only the trunk of the body was recovered and it was impossible to tell which of the women's body it was. However, the location of the place where the body was lying in the ruins led to the belief that it was that of Mrs. Hall, it being at the front of the house, beneath where the head of the stairway had been. The body was brought to the morgue of the Knell Undertaking Company. The search for the other body continues. No funeral arrangements have been made.
About midnight, Ed Hall was taken to the Carthage hospital for treatment. A physician from Carthage had been summoned and rendered first aid treatment. From the first it was realized that he was in a dangerous condition. His body was black from head to foot, his lips and eyes were swollen and some of his burns seemed severe. However, as he was very scantily clad, wearing only his night clothes, when he was fighting his way through the burning building, there was little on him to burn and make deep wounds. It was hoped for this reason that most of his burns were superficial. At the hospital today it was found that his injuries were much more severe than first thought and his condition was at noon pronounced very grave indeed.
Tom Hall, of this city, son of Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Hall, received word of the fire and reached the burning residence shortly after 11 o'clock, anxious to do all he could to recover his mother or render any aid possible. He was too late, however, to accomplish anything except help look after his injured brother, Ed. This he did efficiently. He returned to the ruins of the farm home for awhile this morning to direct the work designed to secure recovery of the remains of the burned women.
Firemen Rushed to Scene
A large number of Carthage people heard of the fire and drove out in buggies and automobiles last night to watch the fire in progress and render any help possible, but there was nothing that they could do. Chief S. T. Mathews and Fireman James Mealey, of the Carthage fire department, were taken out to the farm in a taxicab, arriving there about midnight. They took with them six of the small chemical fire extinguishers of which the department has a supply, but they could do nothing, as the walls had fallen in and lay in the basement, a mass of glowing coals.
Some garments found in the yard near the house during the fire was interpreted by some to mean that Miss Shaw when roused by the fire, had paused in an effort to save some of the things in the house by throwing them out of a window, and thus waited too long in saving herself.
The HALLWOOD farm is equipped with an elaborate water system, including a supply of water for all parts of the residence, but the falling of the burning walls early in the fire had broken and disabled these so as to incapacitate the whole system. Water was being hauled in wagon today for extinguishing the extensive bed of coals in the basement, so as to recover the bodies of the two women burned in the fire. As the water works system on the farm was so disabled, this was the only way in which it was possible to fight the smoldering remnants of the fire. However, a plumber was busy today repairing the system and installing a pipe to carry water to the fire.
Curious Not Allowed on Grounds
Swarms of people drove out to HALLWOOD farm this morning to see the ruins, but the outer gates of the place were locked and a man was stationed at the gate to announce that all visitors would have to be kept out, so that workmen would not be hindered or delayed in their efforts to recover the remains of the two women who were burned to death.
The origin of the fire is unknown, but it is thought probable that it started int he kitchen or at least in the back part of the house, as the rear portion of the building was most in flames when the fire was discovered.
No other of the numerous buildings on the farm were burned. The wind was in a favorable direction, blowing the flames, smoke and embers out over the front lawn and across the road where there were no buildings. There are two or three residences on the place grouped south of the main residence, occupied by the families of men employed on the farm. There were also several barns, sheds and an office building, located at various points on the east and west of the residence. Had the wind been in any other direction than the south, therefore, some of these buildings would have probably burned.
The HALLWOOD home was a large modern, frame building of about 15 rooms, well furnished. The loss is estimated at $10,000 partially covered by insurance.
Daughter of Webb City's Founder
Mrs. Hall, who was the daughter of John C. Webb, the founder of Webb City, was born September 15, 1853 in Overt county, Tennessee and came to Jasper county with her parents in 1857. Her father became wealthy from mines on his lands.
She was married to W. E. Hall in 1871.
About 40 years ago the present HALLWOOD farm was purchased and for a time Mr. and Mrs. Hall resided there. Then they moved to Carthage. This city was Mrs. Hall's home until after Mr. Hall died about nine years ago. Since leaving Carthage she and her son had resided on the farm.
The surviving relatives are the son, C. T. Hall and one brother E. T. Webb of Webb City. One other son, Winston Hall, and a daughter, Mrs. Ruth Hall Vanderford, are dead.
Noted for Philanthropy
Mrs. Hall was noted for her philanthropy, although she made no great show of charity work that she did. Many young people, less fortunate financially than she, were indebted to her for their privileges of attending school. She was one of the most widely and favorable known women of the county.
She formerly was one of the most substantial members of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, of this city, having been active in the work of that church and many of the church organization. She was the organizer of the missionary society of the church and took an active part in promoting other activities. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, of Webb City at the time of her death.
She formerly was active in the Eastern Star Lodge and other clubs and lodges. She was a member of the Rocking Chair Club, the Ianthe-Vincent C.L.S.C. and the Sixth Street.
* * * * *
CARTHAGE EVENING PRESS
MAY 1, 1916
TRIPLE FUNERAL SERVICE HELD FOR FIRE VICTIMS
HUNDREDS ASSEMBLE FOR IMPRESSIVE RITES OVER MRS. W. E. HALL, SON ED
AND MISS ALMA SHAW
THREE MINISTERS CONDUCT OBSEQUIES
One of the largest funerals ever held in Carthage was the triple funeral held at the First Methodist church at 2:30 o'clock over the remains of Mrs. W. E. Hall, her son, Ed M. Hall and her maid, Miss Alma Shaw, who lost their lives in the HALLWOOD fire Friday night. The charred remains of Mrs. Hall and Miss Alma Shaw were in one casket. The remains of Ed Hall, who died Saturday afternoon from his burns, were in a separate coffin. The bodies were laid to rest in the mausoleum in Park Cemetery.
The funeral was characterized by the large number of lodges and societies who attended in bodies.
Floral Offerings Beautiful
A wealth of beautiful floral tributes from societies and individuals were banked on and around the caskets.
Rev. R. N. Allen of Lexington, Mo., who was Mrs. Hall's pastor while in charge of the Methodist church, South, here some years ago, conducted the funeral. He was assisted by Rev. C. A. Powers, of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, at Webb City, and Rev. W. G. Clinton, pastor of the First Methodist church, where the funeral was held.
At the Mausoleum the Eastern Star lodge had charge of the funeral rites over Mrs. Hall, and the Elks Lodge had charge of the services over Ed Hall.
Impressive Church Services
At the opening of the funeral obsequies this afternoon, the preachers met the two caskets at the door of the church and proceeded them to the altar, while Rev. R. N. Allen read the scriptures as supplied by the ritual.
"Lead Kindly Light," was then sung by a quartet composed of Mr. and Mrs. J. T. Wallace, Mrs. Marian Wright Powers and Joseph Stebbins, of Kansas City, with Miss Lua Holiday as accompanist.
Rev. C. A. Powers of the Webb City Methodist church, South, read the ninetieth Psalm.
"Saved by Grace," was sung by the quartet.
Dr. W. G. Clinton, pastor of the First Methodist church, where the funeral was held, read the fifteenth chapter of First Corinthians, following which Rev. Mr. Powers offered prayer.
*FOOTNOTE:
Location of HALLWOOD Farm is from Carthage, driving west out of town on State Highway 96, which is north of the old U.S. Route 66, there is a sweeping curve in the road. At that curve, turn right to the North on County Road 180. Cross a small bridge and go north about a mile and at the intersection of Kafir Road and County Road 180 on the north east corner is what remains of HALLWOOD Farm.
Information below provided by 475261185
Lexington Intelligencer, May 05, 1916
Lexington, Mo.
A Tragic Death
Rev. R.N. Allen received a telegram Saturday morning from C.T. Hall, Carthage, Mo., stating that his mother's country home, "Hallwood," burned Friday night, and that his mother, Mrs. W.A. Hall and the latter's maid, Alma Shaw, burned to death. Ed Hall, a son was so badly injured, that he died Saturday afternoon.
Mrs. W.A. Hall had been a frequent visitor in Lexington, and has many dear friends here who will mourn her tragic death.
"It now develops that the new house at Seventh street and Garrison avenue is to be built and occupied by Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Hall, and not by their son Ed Hall Jr.
Ed was only joking when he talked to the reporter Saturday. The present Hall home is to be rented when the new house is ready for their occupancy.
The house and lot were sold to make ground available for where Carthage Public Library was built at a reduced price in honor of deceased daughter, Ruth Hall-Vanderford, whose tablet is on the wall across from one honoring Andrew Carnegie."
The homestead was reported by a relative "great niece" to have been an estate called HALLWOOD & that a tragic fire had occurred killing the family.
______________
CARTHAGE EVENING PRESS
SATURDAY APRIL 29, 1916
THREE LOSE LIVES AS RESULT OF FIRE AT HALLWOOD FARM
Mrs. W. E. Hall and Maid Die in Flames, While Former's Son, Ed Succumbs at Hospital This Afternoon to Burns Received in Attempt to Save His Mother
ONE OF BODIES RECOVERED
Impossible to Identify charred Remains Taken From Ruins of $10,000 Home Northwest of Carthage - Search for Other Victim Continues - Origin of blaze, Which Started After Family Retired for Night is Mystery
Mrs. W. E. Hall and a girl in her employ, Miss Alma Shaw, died in the fire which at 10 o'clock last night destroyed the commodious residence at [800 acre] HALLWOOD Farm, five mile northwest of Carthage,[*see footnote for location] and Mrs. Hall's son, Ed M. Hall received burns in an attempt to save his mother, which resulted in his death at the Carthage hospital at 3 o'clock this afternoon.
The only occupants of the house were Mrs. Hall and her son, Ed and Miss Shaw. they had retired early and were asleep when the fire started. Ed Hall was roused from his slumber by the screams of his mother and at the same time he smelled smoke in the room. Without waiting to dress, he rushed to his mother's room, with a view to rescuing her but found her room empty.
He then groped his way through the passages of the house and into certain rooms, hunting for his mother.
Thinking she had probably gone on out of doors, he passed out of the house and hunted for her outdoors and call for her.
Getting no trace of her in this way, he returned to the house seeking his mother inside once more, and it was on this return trip to the house that he received his terrible burns. The fire had been gaining headway in the meantime and, after seeking his mother in all reachable portions of the building and even in some places where he should have not risked going, he had to give up the search. The first arrival of neighbors and of the families of the help who lived on the farm found Ed pacing up and down the west side of the house calling for his mother, unmindful of his surroundings or of other people. He had to be restrained from again entering the house. By the time it was considered impracticable to get into the house for further search. It was Ed Hall's statement made at this time which supplies the story of what happened so far as known.
Search for Bodies Begins
It was thought possible last night that Mrs. Hall and Miss Shaw had escaped the burning building and wandered away in a semi-conscious condition or had fallen unconscious somewhere. But this was only a hope and a diligent search showed that it had no foundation. In fact several parties who later were able to stand near the west foundation after the building had fallen in, were sure they could detect the odor of burned flesh.
Today it was conceded that the bodies of the two women were buried in the burning embers, and a search for them began.
The charred remains of one of the women were found about 10:30 o'clock this morning. Only the trunk of the body was recovered and it was impossible to tell which of the women's body it was. However, the location of the place where the body was lying in the ruins led to the belief that it was that of Mrs. Hall, it being at the front of the house, beneath where the head of the stairway had been. The body was brought to the morgue of the Knell Undertaking Company. The search for the other body continues. No funeral arrangements have been made.
About midnight, Ed Hall was taken to the Carthage hospital for treatment. A physician from Carthage had been summoned and rendered first aid treatment. From the first it was realized that he was in a dangerous condition. His body was black from head to foot, his lips and eyes were swollen and some of his burns seemed severe. However, as he was very scantily clad, wearing only his night clothes, when he was fighting his way through the burning building, there was little on him to burn and make deep wounds. It was hoped for this reason that most of his burns were superficial. At the hospital today it was found that his injuries were much more severe than first thought and his condition was at noon pronounced very grave indeed.
Tom Hall, of this city, son of Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Hall, received word of the fire and reached the burning residence shortly after 11 o'clock, anxious to do all he could to recover his mother or render any aid possible. He was too late, however, to accomplish anything except help look after his injured brother, Ed. This he did efficiently. He returned to the ruins of the farm home for awhile this morning to direct the work designed to secure recovery of the remains of the burned women.
Firemen Rushed to Scene
A large number of Carthage people heard of the fire and drove out in buggies and automobiles last night to watch the fire in progress and render any help possible, but there was nothing that they could do. Chief S. T. Mathews and Fireman James Mealey, of the Carthage fire department, were taken out to the farm in a taxicab, arriving there about midnight. They took with them six of the small chemical fire extinguishers of which the department has a supply, but they could do nothing, as the walls had fallen in and lay in the basement, a mass of glowing coals.
Some garments found in the yard near the house during the fire was interpreted by some to mean that Miss Shaw when roused by the fire, had paused in an effort to save some of the things in the house by throwing them out of a window, and thus waited too long in saving herself.
The HALLWOOD farm is equipped with an elaborate water system, including a supply of water for all parts of the residence, but the falling of the burning walls early in the fire had broken and disabled these so as to incapacitate the whole system. Water was being hauled in wagon today for extinguishing the extensive bed of coals in the basement, so as to recover the bodies of the two women burned in the fire. As the water works system on the farm was so disabled, this was the only way in which it was possible to fight the smoldering remnants of the fire. However, a plumber was busy today repairing the system and installing a pipe to carry water to the fire.
Curious Not Allowed on Grounds
Swarms of people drove out to HALLWOOD farm this morning to see the ruins, but the outer gates of the place were locked and a man was stationed at the gate to announce that all visitors would have to be kept out, so that workmen would not be hindered or delayed in their efforts to recover the remains of the two women who were burned to death.
The origin of the fire is unknown, but it is thought probable that it started int he kitchen or at least in the back part of the house, as the rear portion of the building was most in flames when the fire was discovered.
No other of the numerous buildings on the farm were burned. The wind was in a favorable direction, blowing the flames, smoke and embers out over the front lawn and across the road where there were no buildings. There are two or three residences on the place grouped south of the main residence, occupied by the families of men employed on the farm. There were also several barns, sheds and an office building, located at various points on the east and west of the residence. Had the wind been in any other direction than the south, therefore, some of these buildings would have probably burned.
The HALLWOOD home was a large modern, frame building of about 15 rooms, well furnished. The loss is estimated at $10,000 partially covered by insurance.
Daughter of Webb City's Founder
Mrs. Hall, who was the daughter of John C. Webb, the founder of Webb City, was born September 15, 1853 in Overt county, Tennessee and came to Jasper county with her parents in 1857. Her father became wealthy from mines on his lands.
She was married to W. E. Hall in 1871.
About 40 years ago the present HALLWOOD farm was purchased and for a time Mr. and Mrs. Hall resided there. Then they moved to Carthage. This city was Mrs. Hall's home until after Mr. Hall died about nine years ago. Since leaving Carthage she and her son had resided on the farm.
The surviving relatives are the son, C. T. Hall and one brother E. T. Webb of Webb City. One other son, Winston Hall, and a daughter, Mrs. Ruth Hall Vanderford, are dead.
Noted for Philanthropy
Mrs. Hall was noted for her philanthropy, although she made no great show of charity work that she did. Many young people, less fortunate financially than she, were indebted to her for their privileges of attending school. She was one of the most widely and favorable known women of the county.
She formerly was one of the most substantial members of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, of this city, having been active in the work of that church and many of the church organization. She was the organizer of the missionary society of the church and took an active part in promoting other activities. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, of Webb City at the time of her death.
She formerly was active in the Eastern Star Lodge and other clubs and lodges. She was a member of the Rocking Chair Club, the Ianthe-Vincent C.L.S.C. and the Sixth Street.
* * * * *
CARTHAGE EVENING PRESS
MAY 1, 1916
TRIPLE FUNERAL SERVICE HELD FOR FIRE VICTIMS
HUNDREDS ASSEMBLE FOR IMPRESSIVE RITES OVER MRS. W. E. HALL, SON ED
AND MISS ALMA SHAW
THREE MINISTERS CONDUCT OBSEQUIES
One of the largest funerals ever held in Carthage was the triple funeral held at the First Methodist church at 2:30 o'clock over the remains of Mrs. W. E. Hall, her son, Ed M. Hall and her maid, Miss Alma Shaw, who lost their lives in the HALLWOOD fire Friday night. The charred remains of Mrs. Hall and Miss Alma Shaw were in one casket. The remains of Ed Hall, who died Saturday afternoon from his burns, were in a separate coffin. The bodies were laid to rest in the mausoleum in Park Cemetery.
The funeral was characterized by the large number of lodges and societies who attended in bodies.
Floral Offerings Beautiful
A wealth of beautiful floral tributes from societies and individuals were banked on and around the caskets.
Rev. R. N. Allen of Lexington, Mo., who was Mrs. Hall's pastor while in charge of the Methodist church, South, here some years ago, conducted the funeral. He was assisted by Rev. C. A. Powers, of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, at Webb City, and Rev. W. G. Clinton, pastor of the First Methodist church, where the funeral was held.
At the Mausoleum the Eastern Star lodge had charge of the funeral rites over Mrs. Hall, and the Elks Lodge had charge of the services over Ed Hall.
Impressive Church Services
At the opening of the funeral obsequies this afternoon, the preachers met the two caskets at the door of the church and proceeded them to the altar, while Rev. R. N. Allen read the scriptures as supplied by the ritual.
"Lead Kindly Light," was then sung by a quartet composed of Mr. and Mrs. J. T. Wallace, Mrs. Marian Wright Powers and Joseph Stebbins, of Kansas City, with Miss Lua Holiday as accompanist.
Rev. C. A. Powers of the Webb City Methodist church, South, read the ninetieth Psalm.
"Saved by Grace," was sung by the quartet.
Dr. W. G. Clinton, pastor of the First Methodist church, where the funeral was held, read the fifteenth chapter of First Corinthians, following which Rev. Mr. Powers offered prayer.
*FOOTNOTE:
Location of HALLWOOD Farm is from Carthage, driving west out of town on State Highway 96, which is north of the old U.S. Route 66, there is a sweeping curve in the road. At that curve, turn right to the North on County Road 180. Cross a small bridge and go north about a mile and at the intersection of Kafir Road and County Road 180 on the north east corner is what remains of HALLWOOD Farm.
Information below provided by 475261185
Lexington Intelligencer, May 05, 1916
Lexington, Mo.
A Tragic Death
Rev. R.N. Allen received a telegram Saturday morning from C.T. Hall, Carthage, Mo., stating that his mother's country home, "Hallwood," burned Friday night, and that his mother, Mrs. W.A. Hall and the latter's maid, Alma Shaw, burned to death. Ed Hall, a son was so badly injured, that he died Saturday afternoon.
Mrs. W.A. Hall had been a frequent visitor in Lexington, and has many dear friends here who will mourn her tragic death.
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