Rogers - Joseph - Montgomery InGenWeb Project

Darlington, Ind Nov 27 – Joseph Rogers, age 22 son of the late Dr. S.C. Rogers was found dead in bed about 7 o’clock this morning. The discovery was made by his mother, who having called the young man and gaining no response made an investigation with the above results. The body was in a normal position but a cloth was over the nostrils, indicating the young man had placed it there. Later in the day the coroner was called and investigated the case thoroughly and his verdict will no doubt be that death was due to inhalations of chloroform but that it was not taken with suicidal intent.  Young Rogers was of exemplary habits and was one of the leading young men in the community. For some months past he had been suffering severe paints over his eyes and in order to gain rest he had on frequent occasions inhaled chloroform to induce sleep.  On Wednesday evening before retiring he complained of the pains and suggested that he would use a little of the remedy to alleviate the pain.  He was cautioned not to do so but only laughed.  It is evident however that he did use the drug and fell asleep before removing the cloth.  As stated Joseph Rogers was one of the rising young men of Darlington. He had been giving his attention to the care of his farm north of town all summer and was very enthusiastic in the occupation.  He had no faults and commanded the respect and admiration of all who knew him.  He leaves his mother and one brother, Wilbur who is a resident of Brazil, but who was home for Thanksgiving and was present when the awful calamity was discovered.  No definite arrangements have been made for the funeral – kbz