A Disgraceful Affair

From the Pine County News, October 14, 1876:

Mr. J.W. Mills, who has been a resident of Rock Creek, Pine County, for the past two years, or at least his family has, has been in the habit of abusing his wife and children in a most shameful manner. Last spring he left home for the purpose of a final separation, but after staying away all summer, he drifted back last week and visited his wife, who lives at that place, and commenced his abuse upon her. She sent one of her children to the neighbors to inform them of her treatment, and several men called, took Mr. Mills by the ear, led him out, and told him to depart from town and not show himself there again. He left on the first train. In the evening, the citizens held a public meeting, and, after discussing the subject fully, signed the following paper, which effectually shows the feelings toward the family.

THE RESOLUTION

We, the undersigned, citizens of Rock Creek, have resolved ourselves into a committee to assist and aid Mrs. J.W. Mills and her two children to live comfortably through the coming winter, as far as we are able, in the way of clothing and provisions.

Chas. Gill, President
W.H. Gray, Clerk
O. Hewson
May Hewson
Cecil B. Burger
C.W. Gill
A.C. Burger
Fred L. Sherburn
S.M. Hewson
Mrs. M.E. Gray
Mrs. F.A. Webber