"The family of William H. Verken, a farmer residing 2 miles south of Norwalk Monroe County, has had a great deal of hard luck the past year. On Easter of last year, Mr. Verken's mother died, and a short time afterward he lost $100 worth of sheep. A valuable colt fell dead later on. A month later, his 8 year old son died after an illness of 4 weeks. Last fall, another horse broke his leg and had to be shot, and a week afterward, a 2 year old boy, the only remaining child broke a leg. A few days ago, the residence was destroyed by fire, the insurance policy having expired a week previous. Mrs. Verken, who was confined to her bed with newly born twins, was obliged to leave the burning house during a severe snow storm. . . . Recently , Mr. Verken lost his entire lot of pigs." [4/12/1894]
"Gov. Schofield will take steps to provide, if necessary, for the care of Mary Sweeny who has caused so much trouble. . . by smashing plate glass windows. This woman. . . once taught school in Marqeutte, Michigan, and Stevens Point in this state. . . Mary says she doesn't know why she breaks windows and only does it when the craze seizes her. She uses cocaine liberally on such occasions, saying it quiets her nerves." [4/1/1897]
Selections from Michael Lesy's Wisconsin Death Trip.
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