Nov 21 2024 35 mins
In this episode of "Who Killed...?, I dive into the intriguing tale of a disgruntled mill owner, undersheriff Neil Marshall, and Dr. Frank E. Thurber, who I believe is a distant relative. Set in the picturesque M-22 area near Traverse City, this episode explores the events surrounding a murder that took place on August 10, 1889, revealing the complexities of the case and the historical context behind it. Tune in for a compelling exploration of family history, mystery, and the lingering impact of past events.
The story centers on a violent confrontation in 1889 between mill owner C.T. Wright and law enforcement officials, highlighting the tensions between individual business interests and legal authority. This incident occurred in Otter Creek, Michigan, where the lumber industry thrived. C.T. Wright was a significant player in the local economy as the Otter Creek Lumber Company owner.
Wright's refusal to pay taxes on his mill property had led to a legal dispute with the township, creating a backdrop of tension that ultimately culminated in violence. The situation escalated when Deputy Sheriff Neil Marshall and Dr. Frank E. Thurber confronted Wright about his unpaid taxes.
Sources:
https://www.newspapers.com/image/334063526/?match=1&clipping_id=159421994
https://www.newspapers.com/image/55698272/?match=1&terms=Frank%20E.%20Thurber
https://www.newspapers.com/image/1111729315/?match=1&terms=C.%20T.%20Wright
https://www.newspapers.com/image/1111729315/?match=1&clipping_id=159420734
https://www.newspapers.com/image/33445724/?match=1&terms=Frank%20E.%20Thurber
https://www.newspapers.com/image/301345538/?match=1
https://www.newspapers.com/image/55699420/
https://www.newspapers.com/image/55698272/
https://www.newspapers.com/article/traverse-city-record-eagle/159377240/
Buy Larry Wakefield's books HERE
The excerpts I read on this episode can be found in the book Aral: Ghost Towns of Michigan Volume I by Larry Wakefield, under the title, "Murder at the Sawmill."
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