If you’re like me when you start to research a family you find yourself connected in one way or another. I was so pleased to find out through this process that Adolphus Gordy, the son of James and Sallie, grew up to have a family of his own. After the hanging of his father he went to live with his paternal grandmother, Rebecca, until the time of her death. In writing “1897 Hanging of James M Gordy from Delaware“, “The Union of James Gordy and Sallie Pennewell ”and“Gordy Murder Makes Headlines” I tried to shed a little light on the Gordy family and the trial that caught the attention of so many in 1897. When starting this research I came across many who had their own opinions as to who James Gordy really was. Some even thought that maybe Sallie Pennewell wasn’t so innocent.
1900 Census
[1]1900 United States Federal Census
1900 United States Federal Census from Gumboro Hundred in Sussex County in the state of Delaware shows that Rebecca W. Gordy as head of household, white, female, widowed, born May 1828 in the state of Delaware, and both of her parents were born in Delaware. It also shows occupation listed as a farmer, she had twelve children, and eight are still living, she was able to speak English, could not read or write. Her home and farm are owned mortgage-free. She was 72 years of age at the time of this census. Adolphus J. Gordy is listed as grandson to the head of the household, white, male, single, born February 1891 in the state of Delaware, and both of his parents were born in Delaware. It also shows his occupation at school. He was 9 years of age at the time of this census. Mary E. West is listed as a boarder to head of household, white, female, widowed, born Mar 1818 in the state of Maryland, and both of her parents were born in Maryland. It also shows occupations listed as a seamstress, she had six children and four are still living, she was able to speak English, read, and write. She was 82 years of age at the time of this census.
Certificate of Death
[2]Certificate of Death
Certificate of a Death in Sussex County the state of Delaware. The name of the deceased is Rebecca Gordy, age 83 years, white. Occupation listed as household duties, cause of death listed as general debility (old age), date of death May 16, 1906.
[3]Tatnall Tombstone Collection
Tatnall Tombstone Collection, reference in Sussex County on page 223. Rebecca W. Gordy wife of Peter B. was born May 9, 1828, death date listed May 17, 1906. The cemetery is Gordy located 3 miles W. Lowes Cross Roads.
Marriage
[4]Return to Marriage
Return of Marriage in the town of Georgetown in Sussex County the state of Delaware list name of the groom as Adolphus J Gordy, age 21, white, born in the state of Delaware, residing in Sussex County, and occupation as a laborer. The name of the bride is Cordelia M Isaacs, age 18, white, born in the state of Delaware, residing in Sussex County, bride's parents are Mr. & Mrs. Luther Isaacs. The date of marriage is July 21, 1909.
1910 Census
[5]1910 United States Federal Census
1910 United States Federal Census in District 3 in Sussex County the state of Delaware shows Dalpas Gordy as head of household white, male, married, born in the state of Delaware, and both parents born in Delaware. Married for one year, able to speak English, can read and write. Occupation listed as a general farmer, he was 19 years of age at the time of this census. Cordelia A. is listed as wife to head of household, white, female, married, born in the state of Delaware, and both parents born in Delaware. Married for one year, no children, able to speak English, can read and write. No occupation was listed, she was 18 years of age at the time of this census.
WW I Draft
[6]World War I Draft Registration Card
World War I Draft Registration Card for Adolphus James Gordy living in Georgetown, Delaware, date of birth listed February 10, 1891, and a natural-born citizen. place of birth Gumboro, Delaware, occupation listed as a farmer and self-employed. Married with three children, white, no exemptions except for wife and children. Height is medium, stout build, brown eyes with brown hair.
1920 Census
[7]1920 United States Federal Census
1920 United States Federal Census in Georgetown in Sussex County the state of Delaware on Milford Road list Adolphus J Gordy as head of household, white, male, married, born in the state of Delaware, and both parents born in Delaware. It shows he was able to speak English, read and write, he owned his home. Occupation listed as a farmer, general farmer, he was 28 years of age at the time of this census. Cordelia M. is listed as wife to head of household, white, female, married, born in the state of Delaware, and both parents born in Delaware. It shows she was able to speak English, read, and write. No occupation was listed, she was 28 years of age at the time of this census. Sallie C. is listed as a daughter to head of household, white, female, single, born in the state of Delaware, and both parents born in Delaware. It shows she was attending school, no occupation listed, she was 9 years of age at the time of this census. Ava E. is listed as a daughter to head of household, white, female, single, born in the state of Delaware, and both parents born in Delaware. It shows she was attending school, no occupation listed, she was 7 years of age at the time of this census. Martha E. is listed as a daughter to head of household, white, female, single, born in the state of Delaware, and both parents born in Delaware. It shows she was attending school, no occupation listed, she was 6 years of age at the time of this census. Adolphus A. is listed as a son to head of household, white, male, single, born in the state of Delaware, and both parents born in Delaware. No occupation is listed, he was 1 year of age at the time of this census.
Conclusion
Well, this concludes the research that I start after coming across the article that I mentioned in “1897 Hanging of James M Gordy from Delaware”. I’m sure there is much more to this family and the stories that they hold along with members of their community. If you are wanting to learn more about this case, the victims and the family here are a few sites you might be interested in. Thanks to an article in the Middletown Transcript sparked my interest to discover a little more, who knew there was such a story there.
[1]1900 United States Federal Census Ancestry.com(http://www.ancestry.com: accessed July 2017)Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations Inc., 2004. Gumboro, Sussex, Delaware; Roll:157;Page:4A;Enumeration District:0094;FHL microfilm:1240157
[2]Delaware Death Records 1811-1933 Ancestry.com(http://www.ancestry.com: accessed July 2017) Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2010. Delaware Vital Records, Microfilm, Delaware Public Archives, Dover.
[3]Delaware Vital Records 1650-1974 FamilySearch.org (http:www//familysearch.org July 2017)FamilySearch digital folder 005099543
[4]Delaware Marriage Records 1806-1933 Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com: accessed July 2017) Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2010
[5]1910 United States Federal Census Ancestry.com(http://www.ancestry.com: accessed July 2017) Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations Inc.,2006. Roll: T624_148; Page: 2B; Enumeration District: 0107; FHL microfilm: 1374161
[6] U.S. World War I Draft Registration cards 1917-1918 Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com: accessed July 2017) Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2005. Roll: 1570612
[7] 1920 United States Federal Census Ancestry.com (http://www.ancestry.com: accessed July 2017) Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations Inc., 2010. Roll: T625_201; Page: 1A; Enumeration District: 199
The Murder of James Gordy’s Bride Captured in Many Head Lines
Tried, Found Guilty and Hung for the Murder of Mrs. Mary E Lewis
In viewing the past two posts “1897 Hanging of James M Gordy from Delaware”and“The Union of James Gordy and Sallie Pennewell“, I’m guessing you have just as many questions as I did when I started this quest. The murder of Mrs. Mary E Lewis might not have been the only murder he commented, that is at least what we are led to believe in reading these articles. It appears that he was somewhat of a swindler and played that role very well when it came to the ladies. But it also appears that his mother has another point of view when it comes to her son, he was plagued with illness, injuries and was a thorn of pain and grief.
[1] Mrs. Mary E Lewis
When it comes to Mrs. Mary E Lewis it appears she had difficulties before meeting her untimely death at the hands of James Gordy. Believed to be from Milwaukee also known as Estella Mary Grunert, she married her first husband, Maj Robert M Lewis, against her father's wishes. She did have a sister and opened up a tailor shop at one point after the passing of her husband. After his death, she was left with what appeared to be a nice sum of money and the recipe for a red ink that many were seeking.
Death Certificate
[2]Delaware Death Certificate
State of Delaware Certificate of Death in the town of Milton in Sussex County. Shows name of deceased Mary Gordy (alias Mary Lewis) age 35 years and white, American with last known residence in New York. Occupation listed as ink manufacture, married, female. Cause of death states; head inflicted by some blunt instrument, from wounds upon the head inflicted by some blunt instrument in the hands of James M Gordy with felonious intent. Date of death noted March 10, 1897.
Murder Mystery is Being Solved
[3]March 13th
MURDER MYSTERY IS BEING SOLVED James M. Gordy Suspected of the Broadkiln River Crime.~PLACED UNDER ARREST~Detectives Take Him After a Sharp Race Along the Road.~THE CORONER’S INQUEST~Several Persons Claim They Saw Gordy in Company With the Woman~ Special to The Inquirer~ WILMINGTON, March 13.-The State authorities to-day reached a definite conclusion the Milton murder mystery, and as a result James M. Gordy, 30 years old living at Gravely Hill, a few miles from Milton, is locked up in the Sussex county jail at Georgetown on suspicion of having murdered the woman whose body was found in the Boradklin River, near Milton, on Thursday. Gordy has said nothing to implicate himself, but the authorities believe they have succeed in placing a line of circumstantial evidence about the man. The woman is thought to be a Mrs. Mary Lewis, of New York city. This was found from the addresses on some packages which had been sent to Georgetown in the care of Gordy. State Detective Walter L. Witsil and Constable Lynch, of George town, assisted by the people of the vicinity, looked all night for Gordy, but did not succeed in finding him until this afternoon. The first clue to the murder was obtained form a small son of Harvey Messick, who lives near Milton. On Tuesday the family of Messick received a letter form Gordy saying that he would be there on Wednesday and would bring his wife with him. It was not known that Gordy was married, and the matter caused some comment, which the child heard. Gordy arrived at the house about 2 o’clock on Thursday morning and was alone. He soon left and the matter caused talk, as it was expected that he would bring his wife. The child told some people about it and they in turn told State Detective Witsil and Attorney-General Robert C. White. The Messick family was seen and told the same story. Then they began to look up the movements of Gordy. TRACING GORDY’S MOVEMENTS They found from Brakeman E.C. Harrington, who was running on the train arriving in Milford about 7 o’clock on Wednesday evening, that Gordy was on the train with woman who answered the description of the murdered woman. This was borne out by Mattford Short, a member of the General Assembly, who also saw Gordy on the train. To Robert Speakman,a newsboy on the train. Gordy introduced the woman as May Brown. It was found that Gordy and the woman had gotten off the train at Milford so the detective turned he attention to that place. S.M. Reynolds the station agent at Milford, saw the woman sitting in the Milford station and it being unusual for any one to remain there after the train had left, he asked her if she was waiting for some one, and she said that she was waiting for her husband and told Reynolds that she had married James M. Gordy and asked the railroad man if he knew him. He said that he did and in a few minutes Gordy returned with a carriage and took the woman away. It was found from William Dickerson a man who keeps a livery stable in Milford that Gordy had hired a team from him about 7 o’clock on Wednesday evening and had not returned it until Thursday morning. Ex-Sheriff Martin, who lived in Milton, also identified the body of the woman as the one who had been seen with Gordy on the train. Then it was found that William Blackstone had been talking with Gordy in Georgetown on Friday, and after he had spoken to him in reference to the matter he had disappeared. Later it was found that Gordy had asked Michael Lockerman to go with him to Cambridge, from which point he could have taken a boat to Baltimore and other points. The authorities thought this evidence was sufficient, so they determined to arrest Gordy. FOUND AT HIS MOTHER’s They searched for him, but did not find him until to-day. They went to the home of his mother,near Little Hill church, and asked if he was there, she said that he was about the houses somewhere, but just then the small colored boy who was driving the team for Detective Witsil and Constable Lynch saw the man go out the back and climb the fence into the road. The Constable started in pursuit, but could not catch him. Then they got into the carriage and drove after him at a breakneck speed. In this way they succeeded in getting near enough to him to compel him to surrender. when taken into the carriage he is said to have remarked: “i did not hurt the woman.” Afterward he denied all knowledge of the matter and refused to talk. He was locked up in Georgetown jail. When searched a diamond ring was found in his possession, together with some money and a bill of lading for some goods which had been shipped to him at Georgetown. There also were found some advertising cards of a Boston ink firm. The goods at the freight house in Georgetown were examined and were found to be a lot of household goods, including a woman’s desk. In one of the boxes was found the name of Mrs. Mary Lewis, 309 West Thirty-ninth street, New York city. In the goods was also found a box in which the sealskin cape worn by the murdered woman had evidently been sent. It bore the name of “C.C. Gunther & Sons, 184 Fifth avenue New York.” In another case wad found the name, “James M. Gordy, 2613 Eight avenue, New York city, care of Mrs. Mary Lewis.” From this it is taken that the woman belonged in New York and that her name was Mary Lewis. THE WOMAN DESCRIBED.~No one has yet been able to identify the body positively, and it is sill at the undertaking establishment in Milton, where it was first taken. The Coroner’s jury will sit in the case on Thursday next. The woman was about 35 years old and was well dressed. Where she met Gordy or how she came to claim that she was his wife is not explained, as Gordy will say nothing in reference to the matter. From the manner in which the woman was dressed and from the fine quality of the household goods, which have been shipped to Georgetown the woman evidently had money. Gordy is 30 years old and a widower. From some time he has been traveling with a patent portrait copingprocess. The people of Sussex county are more stirred over the matter than they have been by anything for years. Mrs. Gordy Left New York to Join Her Husband Last Week. ~Special to the Inquirer.~NEW YORK, March 13.-It was learned at the flat dwelling at No. 2613 Eighth avenue, the address found in the pocket of Mrs. Lewis the woman murdered in Delaware, that she had announced her marriage to James M. Gordy, who was arrested and had left this city to join her husband in Delaware. Mrs. Lewis, according to her own story was the widower of an ink manufacturer of that name and he had left her a prosperous business here, which she managed. She gave this information to the janitor of the flat house, whos name is Thorndyke, on moving into the building five weeks ago. Mrs. Lewis last week told Thorndyke that she had married a man name Gordy, who owned a large farm in Delaware, and that she intended to move there and live with him on his property. “Then I’ll not have to do any work at all.” she said gleefully. She gave him her name as “Mrs. James Gordy.” written on a card, but left no address on leaving the apartments last Wednesday. On the day Mrs. Lewis disappeared she entered Eugene Becker’s drug store, 584 Eighth avenue, in this city, and asked for a postal card. She told the clerk she was gone to live in Delaware., where she had married a farmer and horsedealer. “I want to write a note to my sister in Brooklyn,” she said. The postal card was given to her and she hurriedly wrote something and went out. Thorndyke read a description of the murdered woman and declared it agreed with the appearance of Mrs. Lewis. A telegram was received at the hour to-day form Attorney-General White, of Delaware, addressed to Mrs. Lewis asking if she knew Mrs. [?] and James M. Gordy. Thorndyke replied to the dispatch relating the above facts.
How The Widow Met Gordy
[4]March 15th
HOW THE WIDOW MET GORDY~He Answered Her Advertisement for a Purchaser of Her First Husband’s Ink Business~NEW YORK, March 15-Mrs. Mary Gordy, who was murdered near Milton, Del., advertised last January for a purchaser of her ink business and the secret process by which her former husband manufactured ink. Gordy answered that advertisement and then formed the acquaintance with her that resulted in his marring her. She told several persons here that she had married Gordy, and she showed a marriage certificate to her physician. Dr. George C. Kerly, of 118 West Eight-third street. This certificate stated that they were married in a Protestant Episcopal church in Hariem last month. Mrs. Gordy had no confidante other then her sister, Mrs. Blanche Goetz, of 632 Herkimer Street, Brooklyn, who is a dressmaker, and is known as Mrs. Grunert. She quarried with that sister two months ago. Before she married her first husband she was Mary Grunert. Her parents, she said, lived in Milwaukee where her father and brothers are in business. She received a small income,and stated that she inherited a small fortune that had been invested by her father, who allowed her six per cent interest on her money. Her First Husband a Chemist. She and her sister [?] a woman’s tailoring establishment when she married Major Roger M. Lewis, in this city, four years ago. He was a veteran of the civil war and was fifty-four years old at the time of his marriage to Miss Grunert. Major Lewis was on the pension list with the rank of major. He carried a bullet in his body, which caused him to suffer severely from [?]. Major Lewis was a chemist, and soon after his marriage he discovered a process by which he could make a good red ink at small cost. He found no difficulty in selling this ink to banks lawyers and insurance companies. He and his wife lived at No. 489 Columbus avenue two years. The Major died there suddenly November 11 last. A few house after his death his wife said to John Russell, the janitor of the house: “I had my first quarrel with my husband today. He flew into a rage and ran to the bathroom where he had a hemorrhage that killed him. Mrs Lewis telegraphed to her father in Milwaukee for money with which to bury her husband. She did not receive the money and she told her doctor and undertaker that her father replied: “You married an old man against my will and then ceased to be my daughter. I will do nothing for you now.” First Meeting with Gordy. After the death of Major Lewis his widow moved to 305 West One Hundred and Thirty-ninth street and then advertised for some one to buy the secret for making ink, which her husband had given her. Gordy replied to her advertisement. He told her that he and capital to increase the business and offered to buy it. She told no one of his visits of his offer, but early last month she called on Dr. Kerley and informed him that she married a wealthy farmer of Georgetown, Del., and showed the doctor her marriage certificate. Mrs. Lewis stated at the time that she was going to New Haven, Conn., for a few weeks and then to her husband’s farm in Delaware, where an ink manufactory was to be erected. She Had Valuable Jewelry. When her firs husband’s ink business began to prosper be bought her a watch and two diamond rings. She had this jewelry with her when she left the Eighth avenue flat house last Tuesday. A Quarrel that Was Overheard. R.C. Lamplugh, who occupies the flat at joining the vacated by Mrs. Lewis, said that as he was about to retire last Monday he heard loud voices in Mrs. Lewis’ apartments. He stepped into the hall and plainly heard all that was said. Gordy was urging the woman to accompany him to his Delaware farm, of which he gave a [?] description. She told him he was only [?] and that she could not afford to leave New York. Gordy insisted, and when Mrs. Lewis remarked, “Your’re talking through your hat.” he became angry and struck her. Then Mrs. Lewis burst into tears, and soon afterward Gordy left the house. Mr. Lamplugh stated that as far as he and the members of his family knew, Gordy was the only male caller on Mrs. Lewis. Clark Lamplugh, Mr. Lamplugh’s little son, says he saw Gordy abstracting mail matter from Mrs. Lewis’s letter-box, using a long, thin wire. Mrs. Lewis always kept the key in this box.
Dark For Gordy
[5]March 15th
DARK FOR GORDY~Authorities Diligently at Work on Delaware’s Murder.~The Prisoner Apparently Realizes His Position, But Will Not Speak.~Special to The Inquirer~WILMINGTON, March 15~Detectives and constables spent a busy day on the Milton murder case and each new discover caused matters to look darker for James Gordy, the man who is locked up in Georgetown jail on the charge of having committed the murder. Gordy realizes fully that maters are looking badly for him and talks to no one but Charles F. Richards and Charles M. Cullen, the attorneys whom his people have secured to defend him. Mr. Richards said today that the defense had not been outlined. He understood that on Thursday Gordy drew considerable money out of bank. He also says that Gordy is an illiterate man. He cannot read writing and cannot write. Constable Lynch, of Georgetown, this morning searched the house of Gordy’s mother, where he was captured. It is near Whitesville, in Sussex county. Mrs. Gordy said that her son had burned some letters when he came there. The constable secured his overcoat and in it found a pocket handkerchief which appeared to heave been stained with blood, but this can only be positively told after examination by an expert, and the Attorney General will have this work done. The letters, which were sent to Messick, the tenant on Gordy’s farm, were written by a woman. These letters were supposed to be among those burned by Gordy. It was learned today that Gordy is a son of Peter Gordy, a well known citizen of Gumbero Hundred in Sussex County, who died some years ago of heart disease and left his family considerable money. This gave Gordy a start in the business in which he was engaged. His family are all respectable people. Some of the people of Sussex county are afraid that the jail in Georgetown, where the accused man is being kept, is not strong enough. State Detective B.J. McVey was sent to New York to see Mrs. Lewis sister and bring them to Milton if they will come. He is also expected to find out something of the history of the woman and also to find out if her life was insured. NEW YORK, March 15~ A photograph of the woman found murdered near Milford, Del, was sent to this city today by a representative of Attorney General Whites office in Delaware to Thomas B. Thorndyke, janitor of the building in which she supposed to have lived at 2613 Eighth avenue. Thorndyke today found a note written by James M Gordy while he was in the city. It was written on the day he left New York for Delaware and connects Gordy with Mrs. Lewis at the time she left here. On it appeared the address which Gordy wrote: “James M. Gordy, Philadelphia General Del.”
Disciple Of H. H. Holmes
[6] March 16th
DISCIPLE OF H.H. HOLMES~Many Crimes Supposed to Have Been Committed by James M. Gordy~GEORGETOWN, Del., March 16~The state authorities are inclined to believe that James M. Gordy, the man now in jail here charged with the murder of Mrs. Mary Lewis, of New York, last week, is a second H. H. Holmes. Gordy denied that he knew Mrs. Lewis, despite his admission to Detective Witsil that he did. Gordy’s father, Peter R. Gordy, died under mysterious circumstances at his home at Cypress Springs, near the Maryland line, five years ago. It is also learned that one of Gordy’s children died about a year ago and the father was suspected of poisoning her. Gordy has worked various alleged swindling schemes. One of these, it is claimed, was to inveigle women into purchasing the stock of a fictitious photograph copying company. A warrant was issued in Washington for him for working the scheme, and in October he was arrested in Pittsburgh and imprisoned in Allegheny county jail. A friend her helped him out of the trouble. He was also arrested in Boston and Chicago on similar charges. The attorney general and detective have about come to the conclusion that Gordy followed Holmes’s schemes, and induced Mrs. Lewis to take out insurance to get which they believe he took her life. The feeling against him is so strong that the citizens of the town have asked Sheriff Johnson to remove him to a safer cell.
Insecure Quarters
[7] March 16th
INSECURE QUARTERS~Gordy, the Suspects, Occupies a Cell With Other Prisoners. The Prisoner Secured a Knife Which He Secreted Under the Stone Floor – Hunting Evidence ~ WILMINGTON, Del.: March 16 There was some excitement in Georgetown today over the discovery that some one had loaned a knife to James M. Gordy, who is confined in Georgetown Jail, suspected of the murder of Mrs. Mary Lewis. Sheriff Johnson at once went to Gordy for the knife, but he denied having it. It was found under the stone floor, however, and taken from him. It was feared that he would either commit suicide or effect his escape in some manner. There is much dissatisfaction over the manner in which Gordy is confined in the jail. It is asserted that he should be put in a more secure place. As a matter of fact the whole jail is insecure. Gordy is confined in a large cell with a number of other men. This is an unheard of thing in this part of the State, though it is the plan often followed in Sussex County. An additional examination of the goods shipped by Mrs. Lewis to Georgetown was made today. In one of the bureau drawers was found a letter which had been written by Gordy to Mrs. Lewis over a month ago, which contradicts the story told by Gordy, that he had only met the woman the train recently. Some jewelry was also found. Word was received today that State Detective McVey had succeeded in finding Madame Grunert, the sister of Mrs. Lewis, in New York, and that he would leave with her immediately. It is expected now that the plea of Gordy will be insanity. Madam Grunert, sister of the murdered woman,her niece and Detective McVey, arrived tonight. Several hundred persons were at the station to see them. The woman will be taken to Milton tomorrow to view the corpse. Madam Grunert identified the picture of Mrs. Lewis as that of her sister.
Protecting Gordy in Jail
[8] March 19th
PROTECTING GORDY IN JAIL ~The Reported Mob Failed to Arrive~Funeral of the Murdered Woman at Georgetown, Del. [Special Dispatch to the Baltimore Sun.] GEORGETOWN, DEL. March 19-Early this morning the members of the special guard which was selected last night by Sheriff Johnson to protect James M. Gordy, who is accused of murdering his bride, form an expected attempt of lynching, left the jail and went to their homes, after having spent the night waiting for the mob that was said to be coming from Milton. All night Sheriff Johnson kept a watch on every road leading into town. Once or twice persona were stopped by the guards and the guards and their identity was established after which they were permitted to pass on. The feeling against Gordy is bitter, Court will meet April 5 and the case will then come up. Gordy is closely watched, and by order of his counsel, Mr. Charles W. Cullen, no one is allowed to see him. As yet he has not been informed of the result of the inquest in his case. Mr. Cullen said today, “I have not talked with the prisoner for some days, it will probably be several days more before I do so. I have not made any plans for the defense and cannot make them until we have consulted. There are many statements and rumors in circulation which tend to add mystery to this affair. Gordy has been spoken of as a rich man. This is untrue. He is poor. To investigate all the rumors and run down theories requires money and this is what our client hasn’t got. Gordy will be indicted at the April term of the General Session for Sussex county and the case will then be heard before a full bench.” State Detective Witall is still here, and will remain to hunt the missing satchels which the murdered woman is supposed to have left. The prisoner is complaining of being sick, and Dr. William R. Messick was sent today to see him. D. Messick said Gordy had pains in the head. People who have known the accused say this is the beginning of a plea of insanity as a defense. The funeral of Mrs. Goody took place today. Upon the coffin plate was the inscription; “Mrs. James M. Gordy, aged 35 years.” The body was removed form the undertaking establishment of Samuel J. Wilson to the Methodist Episcopal Church at Georgetown, where Rev. G. R. Hodge conducted services. The members of the jury of inquest acted as pallbearers. The church was crowded and when the minister referred to the manner in which Mrs. Gordy had met her death there were many eyes wet with weeping. The burial was in the cemetery of the church.
Gordy is Arraigned
[9] April 7th
GORDY IS ARRAIGNED He Pleads Not Guilty to the Charge of Murdering His Bride~TRIAL TO BEGIN NEXT MONDAY~Courtroom at Georgetown, Del, Packed with Spectators. Peculiar Appearance and Actions of the Accused Strengthen the Belief that Insanity Will Be the Plea of the Defense-Witnesses from New York Summoned to Testify. [Special Dispatch to the Baltimore Sun] GEORGETOWN, DEL.April 7-James M. Gordy, who was indicted by the grand jury of Sussex county on the charge of murdering his bride, was arraigned in court here this morning. He pleaded not guilty, and said he wanted a trial by jury. The court fixed Monday next as the day in which the trial is to begin. At no other time since the erection of the courthouse here, in 1837,has such a large crowd gathered in the building, as was present today. The town was visited by a concourse of people not only form Sussex, but from every county in the State,and from the Eastern Shore of Maryland. chief Justice Charles b. Lore presided. Attorney-General White and Deputy Attorney-General Cooper occupied seats at the trial table. Charles W. Cullen, Charles F. Richards and John M. Richardson, counsel for Gordy, sat near the prisoner’s dock. The attorney-general asked that Gordy be brought form the jail and arraigned to plead to the indictment which had been found against him by the grand jury. chief Justice Lore ordered Sheriff John H. Johnson to bring the prisoner from the jail to the courtroom. This was the signal for a rush from the courtroom to the jail, which is but a few yards distant. Men,Women and children became entangled in a struggling mass. The court quickly appointed special deputies, who began to clear the way to the door, but no effort could thwart the object of the crowd, who were determined to see the prisoner. By the time Sheriff Johnson reached the jail several hundred persons were a waiting his arrival. The sheriff, with deputies Robert Short and R.W. Joseph, made a flank movement with Gordy, whom they led from his cell down to the lower floor of the jail and then by a near exit to the jail yard, going thence by way of an alley to a rear door of the courthouse through which the sheriff took his prisoner before the awaiting crowd was aware of his movements. Gordy’s appearance was a shock to his acquaintances. His black hair hung in tangled masses over the collar of a once black coat, but which was now threadbare and dirty. His face was covered with a beard that he had allowed to grow several weeks. His color was ashen and his eyes where kept closed all the time he was in the building. When the dock was reached the handcuffs were removed from Gordy, who sank back into the seat and seemed trying to hide his face from the peering eyes of the crowd that pressed close to him. Upon being told by Chief Justice Lore to stand up he arose and, with eyes still closed, faced the court. John B. Dorman, clerk of the court, then told him to raise his right hand, and the hand was forthwith elevated, with the elbow resting upon the dock rail. When the clerk began to read the indictment Gordy’s hand began to tremble as if stricken with palsy. Before the clerk had gotten half way through reading the paper Attorney-General White noticed that the hand had fallen to the dock rail. He called the court’s attention to the fact, and Justice Lore told Gordy again to hold up his hand. Almost instantly the hand was raised once more, and the began to shake violently. Attorney Charles W. Cullen stood close to Gordy, and when the question as to what plea he desired to enter was asked Gordy replied in an indistinct voice, “Not guilty.” “How will you be tried?” asked the clerk. There was no response from the prisoner. The question was about to be repeated, when Gordy mumbled something which was not heard by many persons close to him, but which was to the effect that he preferred a jury trial. Mr. Cullen said, “He selects trial by his God and this county.” The attorney-general objected to this, and asked that the prisoner plead in person. Chief Justice Lore said: “I understood what the prisoner said, although he spoke indistinctly. Gordy, sit down.” When Gordy heard this he sank back between the deputies, and on his face there came an expression which clearly indicated his relief in the knowledge that the ordeal of the day had passed. Attorney-General White asked that the court appoint next Monday morning as the day on which the trail should begin. Lawyer Richards asked that the court set the hour at noon Monday. This was objected to by the attorney-general, who told the court that he had several witnesses here from New York who were willing to remain until Monday, provided they could leave for their homes that day, and in order to accommodate them he hoped the court would begin the case at 10 o’clock in the morning. Chief Justice Lore said the request made by the prisoner’s counsel was reasonable, and he would set the hour at 12 o’clock. “You may take the prisoner back to jail.” he then said to the sheriff. This caused another rush for the exit. The people so completely blocked the doorway that the sheriff had to wait until they had reached the street, where they collected in squads, some at the rear door of the courthouse and some at the front door. Gordy was taken to jail by the route that had been followed by the sheriff in bringing him into court. All along the route there were crowds, Gordy moved with a quick tread as if he were eager to seek seclusion in the old jail. While there was no attempt at violence, yet remarks form the crowd which, no doubt reached the prisoner’s ears, were sufficient to convince him that there was no sympathy with him in the community. It is generally inferred form his actions in court that insanity will be is plea.
Mrs. Gordy’s Grief
[10] April 16th
MRS. GORDY’S GRIEF~Stricken Mother of the Murderer Prays for Her Son.~She Sends Him Word to Put His Trust in the Lord and Ask for Salvation~ From a Staff Correspondent. GEORGETOWN, Del., April 16-Tomorrow morning at 10 o’clock James M. Gordy will be sentenced to be hanged for the murder of his wife. The Expected appeal for a new trial was not made and nothing except the death of the prisoner can now prevent his execution. Gordy appeared more cheerful today than at any time since his arraignment. He fully realizes that he must pay the penalty for his crime and seems resigned to his fate. During the day Gordy was visited by his brother, Joseph, and Levan H. Moore, his brother-in-law, and Dr. Missick, his physician. To them he said that he was prepared to die, although he stoutly declared his innocence. During their sojourn there Gordy sang hymns. The prisoner’s relatives came out of the jail with tears streaming from their eyes. Mrs. Gordy, the convicted murderer’s mother, was seen at the home of her son-in-law, Mr. Moore, near Lower Cross Roads, this afternoon. Bowed down by the trouble to which she has been subjected through the actions of her son James during the past twelve years, she appears to be nearly four score years of age, although just 67 years old. She said she received the news of her son’s conviction about 12 o’clock last night, and the news nearly broke her heart. During the interview Mrs. Moore, her two daughters and several other members of the family were present. Mrs. Gordy said that twelve years ago her son was ill with typhoid pneumonia, and from then on he has been a constant source of trouble to her. A year and a half ago he was struck on the head by a wagon sweep and since then has been more queer than even before. “I do not know much about the murder.: the old lady continued. “They have not told me much, but I feel sure he must have been crazy or he never would have committed it. If you see my poor boy deliver this message to him. Tell him to remember that he has a wife and baby waiting for him in heaven. Tell him not to forget to pray and to put his trust in the Lord and to remember that his poor old mother, with a broken heart, prays to God every day for his salvation. If there is a dark spot in his life tell him to ask the Lord to cleanse it, for He alone can forgive him. If the Lord had taken him when he was a boy it would have been better. Ever since his arrest I have been praying for death. I would go to see him, but I am unable to travel in a carriage, as I have heart disease. I will never see him again.” During the interview Mrs. Gordy and her daughter as well as the other relatives present wept bitterly. Mrs. More said: “Tell Jim that his father waits for him too. I know he was a Christian and has gone to heaven.” Despite the efforts of the counsel for Gordy to obtain an interview with the prisoner for the newspaper men, Sheriff Johnson absolutely refused to allow anyone to talk to Gordy this evening.
Gordy’s Story of a Letter
[11] May 23rd
GORDY’S STORY OF A LETTER~A DOCUMENT EXCULPATING HIM SAID TO BE IN THE POSSESSION OF HIS COUNSEL~Georgetown, Del., May 23.-A sensation was created here today when it became rumored that Mr. Cullen, the chief attorney for the defense in the Gordy case, had in his possession a letter which stated that the writer and a companion had plotted the murder of Mrs. Lewis, for whose death James M. Gordy is to be hanged on June 11. The story comes form Gordy’s cell, and he says he has been assured that his attorney has the letter, and that the case is to be investigated. Gordy talks as if he was firmly convinced that the writer can and will be traced, as he says he has an idea who the writer and his associate are. It is in keeping with the theory advanced by him in an interview on Tuesday last,when he stated that he suspected certain persons in Newark, N.J., of having worked up the job and personated him, as they knew all about his private affairs. He says the letter states that there were two in the plot; that they induced Mrs. Lewis to convert everything she had into cash, even her furniture, which was sold to a dealer whose name is given; that one of them married her, then brought her town into Delaware as described at the trial that the accomplice, who had gone before met them at the river and took charge of her after she was placed in the boat,and then finished the murder the other had begun. At the trial the question was argued as to whether one man could have done all it is claimed Gordy did in the time allotted him. Especially was it doubted whether he could have rowed the boat a mile up the creek and disposed of the body in the manner described in the short time the woman’s companion that night is know to have spent o the river. It is also recalled that a mysterious stranger had been in Georgetown and Milton for two days, and that he disappeared on the night of the murder. Gordy claims that this was the accomplice and one of the real murders. Gordy has always admitted that he came down on that train, but insisted that he drove leisurely to his home, and also that the satchels and handbag found, and which it was claimed belonged to Mrs. Lewis, were the property of his wife, who died three years ago. The sensation created by this latest story is widespread, and many are asking if Gordy is guilty. Mr. Cullen could not be seen to verify Gordy’s story of the letter.
Gordy’s Last Day in His Prison Cell
[12] June 10th
GORDY’S LAST DAY IN HIS PRISON CELL~Shows No Sign of Weakening and Is Still Calm and Collected.~NO LYNCHING PROBABLE~The Condemned Murderer Has Asked a Clergyman to Read a Prepared Statement From the Gallows.~Special to The Inquirer~WILMINGTON,Del., June 10-All arrangements were today completed for the execution of James M. Gordy, who is to be hanged at Georgetown tomorrow for the murder of his wife. Gordy is still calm and collected. There was some fear that an effort might be made to get Gordy out of Jail, and some of the officers in charge were frightened. For this reason the number of guards about the jail was increased, and there is now no danger of lynching and so far as is known there is no reason to believe that an effort will be made to rescue Gordy. The report what he would be rescued is possibly due to the fact that the last two men sentenced to death in Sussex county escaped, and were never recaptured. To avoid danger Sheriff Johnson, of Sussex county, to-night sent way his family to remain until after the execution of Gordy, Crowds of spectators are expected to arrive at daylight. Gordy will make no confession. The scaffold was completed this evening. He looked down upon it from his cell window and remarked that he was sorry he did not have a chance to help built it. To his counsel, who saw him in his cell to-night. Gordy laughingly declared that he would walk like a man to the scaffold to-morrow. “I may hesitate a little,” he said, “but if the Sheriff waits a minute or two I can stand firm.” Unless Sheriff Johnson changes his plans Gordy will be hanged at 11 o’clock to-morrow morning. The number of spectators will be limited to thirty, but under a new law just passed, this number don not include the newspaper representatives who are to be admitted. The jail yard is very small, and this crowd will have to be huddled together. Gordy has given a statement to Rev. J.H.S. Ewell, pastor of the M.P. Church at Georgetown, which he wants read on the scaffold. Whether this will be done or not has not yet been decided upon. Gordy has also requested that his body be buried near the town of Gumboro. He has requested the Sheriff to allow no picture of the hanging to be taken. Governor
James Gordy is Hanged
[13] June 11th
JAMES GORDY IS HANGED~Executed at Georgetown for the Murder of His Wife.~DIED DECLARING HIS INNOCENCE~Convicted on Circumstantial Evidence, Money and Jewelry of Dead Woman Found in His Possession~First Wife Who Died Suddenly Was Heavily Insured.~Georgetown, Del., June 11-James M. Gordy was hanged at 10:25 o’clock this morning for the murder of his wife. He protested his innocence to the last. The murderer had prepared a rambling statement, which he read on the scaffold, impugning the evidence of those who testified against him. A portion of the statement is as follows: ” In regard to the newspapers, I’m sorry people believe all they say. They are the greatest falsifiers that I ever heard of and are largely responsible for people thinking so ill of me today, I thank God, though, that a day will come when newspaper men will have to give an account for the deeds done in the body. They say I killed my dead father, My people known that is false. I was not at father’s house when it is alleged that I gave him something that killed him. I was miles away at my own home. I’m also charged with killing my dear wife, who died about two years ago, I’m said to have caused the death of my sweet little child. It is hard to hear these things. I thank God that my conscience is clear of all these charges, and that God and I know that I never, directly or indirectly, killed anyone.” Gordy’s Crime~The murder of Mrs. Gordy was one of the most brutal and deliberate in criminal animals. All circumstances in connection with the woman’s death tend to show that the crime was calmly premeditated and that the murder was committed for no other apparent reason than the murderer’s insatiable greed for money. The body of Mrs. Estelle E. Gordy was found in Broadkill Creek, near Milton, Del., March 11 the woman had lived at 2013 Eighth Avenue, New York city, and was known there until a few days before as Mrs. Estella M. Lewis, widow of Maj. Robert M. Lewis, a former prominent ink manufacturer. Two days previous to the woman’s disappearance from New York city she told some of her friends that she had married James M. Gordy, a planter and horsebreeder living in Delaware. The woman disposed of the business which had been left her by her former husband and accompanied by Gordy, left New York city for Delaware. That was the last seen of her by her New York friends alive. Her body was found in the Broadkill Creek by two fishermen. There were three wounds on the head, any one of which would have caused death. A boat that had been stolen further up the creek, was found drifting near the body, in the boat were some hairpins and near it a broken oar. Suspicion was directed toward Gordy. When taken into custody, Gordy said: “I didn’t hurt that woman.” He had not been told why he had been arrested. In his pockets were found a woman’s pocketbook, containing $300 and a diamond ring. The ring was afterwards identified as the property of the dead woman, by her sister, Mrs. Blanche Goetz, of Brooklyn. In the room occupied by Gordy at Hessick’s house, was found secreted between the feather bed and mattress, a woman’s shopping bag containing a nightgown and a kid glove. The mate to this glove was found o the woman’s hand when her body was discovered in the creek. In the shed where Gordy’s carriage stood was found an old claw-hammer, partly broken, with hair and what appears to be blood stains upon it. With this evidence to work upon the detectives redoubled their efforts and soon had collected an overwhelming mass of circumstantial evidence against the prisoner. Gordy was placed on trial on April 18, and two days later the case was brought to an abrupt and somewhat sensational close by the defense refusing to call but a single witness. Link by link the state forged a chain of evidence about Gordy that could not be broken. The most damaging testimony, however, against Gordy was that of Harvey T. Messick and his wife. They testified that Gordy reached home about midnight on the night of the murder. He was greatly excited, and his trousers were soaked with water and were muddy. Mrs. Mersick testified that Gordy had asked her to clean them. When Gordy became aware that he was suspected of the crime he immediately left Georgetown, going direct to his mother’s house, where he was subsequently arrested. After Gordy’s arrest for murder of his wife, numerous stories were put into circulation regarding his past career. It was recalled by his neighbors that his first wife, who died suddenly, had been heavily insured in favor of her infant child. The child also died suddenly soon after it’s mother’s death, in convulsions, and Gordy collected the insurance. A barn belonging to Gordy upon which there was a heavy insurance was set on fire and burned. This insurance was also collected by Gordy shortly after his wife’s death Gordy eloped with a 15-year-old girl and after living with her a short time abandoned her. It also developed that Gordy during one of his escapades swindled a Washington woman out of several hundred dollars through a photographing scheme, and a Baltimore woman cam forward with a statement that Gordy and she were married but a short time after his first wife’s death.
Death Certificate
[14] Death Certificate
Certificate of death in Sussex County in the state of Delaware shows James M Gordy, male, white, an American citizen residing near Georgetown, Delaware. Peter Gordy is listed as his father, cause of death is listed as hanged. He was 30 years of age at the time of his hanging that took place on the 11th of June in 1897.
[15] Tatnall Tombstone Collection
Tatnall Tombstone Collection, Reference in Sussex County on page 223 shows that James M Gordy son of Peter B. was born August 19th, 1866, and date of death June 11th, 1897. Cemetery listed Gordy, 3 miles W., Lowes Cross Roads.
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[15]Delaware Vital Records 1650-1974 FamilySearch.org (http:www//familysearch.org July2017)FamilySearch digital folder 005099543
