Funeral at Killymurris

EXTRACT FROM

Ballymena Observer of 4th September 1891

EXTRAORDINARY OCCURRENCE AT A FUNERAL FROM AN EYE WITNESS ACCOUNT.

Information has reached us of a most appalling accident which took place on Thursday last at a funeral near Glarryford. It appears from information obtained, of the most reliable character, that at the funeral of Mrs Reid, of Killydonnelly, a scene was witnessed, the like of which has never been beheld by anyone in this or any part of the country: The funeral, which was very largely attended, started at twelve o’clock for the burying-ground of Killymurris, about fifteen minutes’ walk from the deceased’s late residence. The coffin was carried from the house to the graveyard, the distance being only about half a mile. When about half the distance had been covered an occurrence took place the like of which it is hoped will never occur again in this locality. As the funeral cortege was proceeding along the country road it appears that one of the horses attached to the conveyance, and belonging to a Mr John Smith, came too close upon the machine in front of it, and accidentally rubbed the bridle off its head. The animal then became uncontrollable by those in charge of it, broke past the preceding vehicles and galloped off at a furious rate through the crowd. The machine, which contained three passengers, struck one of the pall-bearers (Mr Matthew Calderwood), knocking him down and causing him serious injury, the wheel of the vehicle passing right over his legs, body and head. The coffin fell heavily to the ground almost immediately, and the wheel of the machine passing over it, when the lid sprung open by the fall, causing the deceased’s body to be thrown out on to the middle of the road. A scene of the most unparalled description took place, every one being completely awe stricken. The Rev Mr Morell, Presbyterian clergyman, who had but a short time previous officiated at the deceased’s residence, and a number of other gentleman in the procession fainted at the extraordinary occurrence. The horse was brought to a standstill after running for a considerable distance. When everything had been quieted down, a messenger was immediately despatched for Dr McKay of Clough, who shortly afterwards arrived on the scene and did everything he could for the injured man, who was taken by everyone as dead. After careful examination of Mr Calderwood, it was found that he had received a very severe wound at the back of his right ear, caused by the wheel of the vehicle passing over his head. He was removed to a neighbouring house, where he was skilfully treated by Dr McKay, have had to get his head stitched. The remains of the deceased lady were again placed in the coffin and the funeral proceeded on the way to the churchyard at Killymurris, which was a short distance from the dreadful scene which took place.

with thanks to Elizabeth Hoy for supplying this story!