From the Lawrence Daily Journal-World for Aug. 10, 1912:

• “A serious accident that nearly proved fatal occurred late yesterday afternoon on West Warren [Ninth] street, when a small boy came in contact with some live wires. As it was the boy was severely burned and it was remarkable that he escaped with his life. Lincoln Smith, aged about nine years, had climbed an electric light pole at the corner where the line turns from Warren street to the Stubbs home. He had reached the box containing the meter and was investigating it, when he touched the live wires. One of his legs came in contact with one wire and his hand with another. The current passed through his body and caused a short circuit, burning his hand and leg badly. When the boy received the shock, he lost his hold on the pole and fell backward into a ditch at the side of the road. Here he lay stunned for a short time until he was picked up by one of the neighbors…. Lincoln is getting along as well as could be expected at present. He has to remain in bed.”
• “It is believed that hog cholera has made its appearance in two sections of the country within the past ten days. In one instance it was detected when two pigs became infected and they were promptly killed in order to give a post-mortem examination. This examination showed cholera in a severe form…. Another case was reported from south of the city and Dr. McClelland is watching it closely for developments. In cases of cholera prompt vaccination will save the hogs, but if the owner waits until the hogs begin to die then it is a hard matter to save any of them.”