The Fort Dodge Chronicle: July 2, 1907

Letter Tells of Sad Drowning

Miss Nellie Boland Receives Communication Telling How Brother Lost His Life

Miss Nellie Boland is in receipt of a letter from B.F. Spry, one of the fellow workmen of Miss Boland’s brother, James Boland, who was drowned in Little Beaver creek, North Dakota, June 22.

The letter gives a clear account of the result of a flood or cloud burst the result of a flood or cloud burst which descended on the camp about 8 o’clock that evening. It seems the camp was situated on low ground and the water came with such a rush that they were entirely cut off from high land. The men in the camp all worked with all their strength to save the camp but to no avail.

They waded in water four or five feet in depth, their heavy clothing making it impossible to swim in the strong current. Many of the men had narrow escapes and the escape of (M)ichael Quinlan was almost miraculous. James Boland and Patrick Quinlan were the two unfortunate ones to meet death. The bodies were easily recovered and were tenderly laid to rest the following day. Mr. Spry writes that Michael Qu8inlan will bring the bodies of Mr. Boland and his brother to this city in October where they can be laid in the family burying grounds.

James Boland was born in 1882 and was the youngest of a family of eight children. Much sympathy is being extended the relatives here by their many friends. Expressions of sorrow and regret have been offered to the bereaved family which has helped them bear their loss with a greater fortitude.

Tags: 1907, Boland, Quinlan, Spry