James Longton, 1820-18/12/1870. "entangled between the spokes"

A severe accident occurred on Monday, to Mr James Longton, of the National Hotel. Aylmer-street, Ross. He was sitting in his dray when the horse bolted, and in endeavoring to catch hold of the reins he slipped, and his foot got entangled between the spokes of one of the wheels. The horse must have continued his career for about half a mile before he was pulled up, and Mr Longton's foot for several inches above the ankle was found to be completely smashed. The fracture, says the Guardian, was so utterly complicated as to cause amputation necessary, and this was successfully performed by the Surgeon-Superintendent of the Hospital, Dr Zurhorst, and Dr Hoskins.  -West Coast Times, 15/12/1870.

We notice by the Ross Guardian that Mr Longton, who had to suffer amputation of his leg, just below the knee, in consequence of a recent accident, is progressing as favorably as could be expected under the circumstances.  West Coast Times, 17/12/1870.

Mr Longton, who met with an accident at Ross a few days ago, is reported to have died yesterday, from the effects of the injuries he received.   -West Coast Times, 19/12/1870.

In its notice of the death of Mr J. Longton, from the effects of an accident and amputation, the Ross Guardian says: — For two or three days after the operation had been performed, the patient seemed to be in a fair way of recovery, but after that, he gradually sunk, and expired as we have stated above. Mr J. Longton was one of the earliest arrivals in Ross, and, during his term of residence amongst us, gained the respect and esteem of all who knew him. As a kind and affectionate husband and father, those of his family whom he leaves behind can best testify; as a man, straightforward, honest, and industrious; and as a friend, warmhearted and invaluable. He was one of that class of men that can be ill-spared in any community. His widow and a large family are left to deplore his loss. The funeral took place yesterday afternoon at the Cemetery. The cortege left the National Hotel at a little past 5 p.m., headed by the band playing the Dead March in Saul, and was followed by a very large number of people to the grave. The burial service was read by the Rev. D. O. Hampden. Out of respect to the memory of the deceased, all places of business were closed during the afternoon.   -West Coast Times, 22/12/1870.

Ross Historic Cemetery.