The following article appeared in the Upper Dauphin Register in August 1871, and was reprinted in the Harrisburg Telegraph of August 14, 1871:
UPPER END AFFAIRS — The Upper Dauphin Register furnishes us the following item:
Killed in the Mines — John Workman of this place [Lykens] was smothered to death in the mines of Miller and Company at Lorberry, Schuylkill County, on Friday last. His remains were brought home on Saturday, and his funeral took place on Sunday morning, from his late residence. He was a member of the Sons of Temperance and Good Templars, both of which Lodges attended his funeral.
Deceased was extensively known in this place and vicinity, having been a member of a numerous family who were born and raised in this neighborhood. he was a young man universally esteemed for his high moral character and quiet unobtrusive life. His manner was simple and childlike, but his daily walk and conversation exemplified and exalted Christian life, evidence of which manifested itself to all with whom he was brought in contact. He was a zealous and active member of Grace Methodist Episcopal Church. John was the fourth of a family of five brothers who met death by violence — two having been killed during the rebellion in the battles of the Wilderness, and a third in the mines at this place. One brother is still living.
The news of his death, which was received by telegraph, plunged a young family and an aged and infirm mother into deep grief, and was broken with sadness upon the entire community. Mr. Workman had been in the employ of the railroad company off and on for about three years, and only left about three months ago to work for his uncle, Mr. Joseph R. Workman, in the colliery where he met his death. His last visit to his family was two weeks before his lifeless remains were brought home for interment. Grace Church, where funeral services were held, was packed full to hear the glowing tribute to the deceased, which was pronounced by Rev. Potts, and the silent tear was brought to many eyes in the congregation.
The remains of Mr. Workman were followed to the cemetery by an immense concourse of people. He leaves a widow and two small children, who have the heartfelt sympathy of the community in their irreparable loss. His age was twenty-two years.
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From Newspapers.com.
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