On This Date in Minnesota History: February 15

February 15, 1896 – After leaving Mankato on Jan. 30 with his sample case and a number of bills, traveling salesman Rueben Pickett has finally been heard from. His sample case with a letter attached addressed to his wife, came by express today to his employer, wholesale candy manufacturer Rosenberger & Currier. The letter indicated that he had deserted his wife for another woman.

It was also reported that Pickett’s accounts are short $500. His parents live in Minneapolis, his father being head miller at the Washburn plant, and his relatives say they will make good the shortage. Last Sept. Pickett was arrested on a charge of embezzlement, but made a settlement.

Daily Globe; “Gone With Woman and Cash.”; St. Paul, Minn.; Feb. 18, 1896; p. 1.

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