On This Date in Minnesota history: January 10

January 10, 1905 – A shocking tragedy, with jealously as the motive, was committed in Virginia, Minn., this morning. John Philips, a woodsman, shot and killed Miss Ruth Philips and then turned the weapon on himself. The murderer and his victim were distant relations. Mr. Philips sought to court the girl, but she declined to receive his attentions seriously. He was 33 years old and she 16 years old.

The mother and sister of the victim were present and were afraid they would suffer the same fate, but Philips, after making sure the girl was dead and could be the bride of no one else, placed the revolver to his head and blew his brains out.

The Bemidji Daily Pioneer; “Kills Girl and Himself. Shocking Double Tragedy Occurs at Virginia, Minn.”; January 10, 1905; p. 1.

Photo taken by Pamela J. Erickson. Released into the public domain Nov. 12, 2012,
as long as acknowledgement included. 

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If you are interested in finding out more about your family history in Minnesota, I specialize in researching  genealogical and historical records in Minn. and western Wis., including: census records,  birth records,  death certificates, obits, grave site photos, ship passenger lists, marriage records and declarations of intent/naturalization records.  I will visit locations to research local history and county records, as well as take photos. Quick turnaround on MNHS records. Both short searches and family history reports available.

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