Saturday, February 4, 1905 Paper: San Antonio Express (San Antonio, TX) Volume: XL Issue: 35 Page: 5
Death of Captain Pitts
Capt. Frank Pitts, ex-State Treasurer and prosptment? in the politics of Missouri, died in his apartments on Alamo Plaza Friday evening of pneumonia. The body was shipped to Paris, MO., Friday night for burial.
(Contributor: Randy Clark)
FRANK L. PITTS
(Ex-Sheriff and Collector, Paris).
Mr. Pitts, a gallant one-armed ex-Confederate soldier, and one of the substantial citizens and most popular and highly esteemed men of Monroe county, was born near Shelbyville, in Shelby county, April 25, 1841. His parents, James P. and Gertrude (Jarman) Pitts, came from Maryland to Missouri as early as 1826. They first located at Hannibal, and from there, later along, went to Shelby county. But in 1845 they returned to Hannibal, where both lived until their deaths. The father was married a second time, and his widow is still living. He was a saddler and harness-maker by trade, and was successfully engaged in that line of business at Hannibal for years. He left a large family of children. Frank L., the sixth of his father's family of children, was reared at Hannibal, and brought up to the saddler and harness maker's trade. In 1860 he and his next eldest brother, Thomas W., came to Paris, and engaged in the saddlery trade and business at this place. The war breaking out soon afterwards, Mr. Pitts promptly enlisted in the Missouri State Guard under Capt. Brace, and while in this service participated in the battles of Lexington and Pea Ridge, and some minor engagements. He then enlisted in Co. G, Second Missouri infantry, under Col. Cockrell, and served until the close of the war, or rather until nearly the close, when, after having his arm shot off, he was taken prisoner and confined at Camp Chase until after peace was declared. We can not take the space to follow him through his four years of campaigning in the South, or to give any idea of the dangers and hardships through which he passed. Suffice it to say, that as a soldier he was distinguished for bravery among as brave a body of men as ever kept step to martial music, or faced death without fear on the field of battle. He participated in all the campaigns and battles in which his command took part, and was ever found in the front rank of his comrades where brave men dared to do and die for the cause that they held dearer than life. After the war and after his release from Camp Chase, Mr. Pitts returned to Paris and began the harness business again at this place. He continued it with success until 1872, when he was elected sheriff of the county. Two years later he was re-elected. At the close of his second term as sheriff, in 1876, he was elected collector of the county, and he was afterwards twice re-elected to that office, serving three consecutive terms as county collector. Since the close of his last term, in January, 1883, Mr. Pitts has not re-engaged in business. He has valuable property interests, however, to which he is giving his attention. He is also a large stockholder in the "Governor" silver mine of Colorado, and has made two trips to the West, looking after his interests in the mine. February 4, 1875, Mr. Pitts was married to Miss Laura F. Boulware, of Monroe county. They have an interesting little daughter, Kittie, now in her third year. One, a promising infant son, Harry E., died when less than a year old. Mrs. Pitts is a valued member of the Christian Church. Mr. Pitts is universally regarded as one of the most estimable men of the county, highly esteemed by all who know him.
From HISTORY OF MONROE & SHELBY COUNTIES, MISSOURI
(Contributor: Pam Witherow)
FORMER TREASURER OF STATE IS DEAD
Capt. Frank L. Pitts Dies of Catarrhal Pneumonia in San Antonio, Tex.
SAN ANTONIO, Tex., Feb. 4. — Capt. Frank L. Pitts, formerly state treasurer of Missouri, who came here three weeks ago to avoid the rigors of a northern winter, died late yesterday afternoon of catarrhal pneumonia, after a week's illness.
Dr. and Mrs. Shobe, son-in-law and daughter of Mr. Pitts, were present at his bedside when death came.
Capt. Pitts was born in Shelby County, Missouri, and later was a resident of Marion County. He was educated in the public schools and in the High School at Hannibal. He learned the trade of a mechanic and spent several years as a harness maker. His wife, who survives him, was formerly Miss Laura F. Boulware of Hannibal. Capt. Pitts was 62 years old.
He was a candidate for state treasurer in 1892, but was defeated for the nomination by former Gov. Lon V. Stephens. In 1896 he was nominated for the treasurership and elected.
During his residence in Monroe County Capt. Pitts held many offices, serving as sheriff for four years and collector for 10 years.
Arrangements for the funeral have not been made, but it is probable that it will not take place earlier than Sunday.
~~~~~~~
Judge Upton M. Young, formerly of Gen. Cockrell's staff, says:
"Capt. Pitts was one of the best soldiers in Cockrell's brigade. At the battle of Franklin, one of the bloodiest battles of the war, Capt. Pitts was severely wounded and lost an arm."
St. Louis Post-Dispatch, St. Louis, Missouri, 04 Feb 1905, Sat • Page 2, Column 5
(Contributor: Pam Witherow)
Monroe County's Distinguished Citizen Passed Away
Frank L. Pitts, one of the best known men in Monroe county died of pneumonia at San Antonio, Texas, last Friday. His health had been on the decline a year or more and in the early part of the winter he went South in the hope of receiving benefit.
Deceased was born near Shelbyville, Mo., April 25, 1841. In 1860, he and his brother, Thos. W. Pitts, who preceded him to the other world about two weeks ago, engaged in the harness business at Paris. When the war broke out Frank enlisted in the Company G. Second Missouri Infantry, under Col. F. M. Cockrell, serving until almost the close of the war, after losing an arm he was taken prisoner and held until peace was declared. He then returned to Paris and again took up the harness business which he followed until 1872. That year he was elected sheriff of Monroe county. Two year later he was reelected to that office, serving three consecutive terms.
In 1896 he was elected state treasurer and served four years. In public office, in business and in private life, Frank Pitts was held in highest esteem by all who knew him.
The remains were laid to rest at Paris last Monday.
February 09, 1905
(Contributed by Shelby County (MO) Historical Society & Museum/Posted by Pam Witherow)
Death of Capt. F. L. Pitts.
Born in Shelby county, April 25, 1841; died at San Antonio, Texas, February 4 [sic], 1905; a saddler and partner of Thos. W. Pitts at Paris in 1860; a soldier of the South and a hero on many a hard-fought bettle field, sacrificing his right arm upon the altar of the Confederacy; once more at the saddler's bench, maimed but independent, penniless but full of ex-Confederate grit and self-reliance; once constable of Jackson township twice sheriff and five times collector of Monroe county; once treasurer of the great state of Missouri; trustee for the splendid home of ex-Confederate soldiers; always considerate, courteous, kind and just — brave soldier, successful financier, popular citizens, affectionate husband, indulgent father. This, in brief, is the biography of Capt. Frank L. Pitts.
He died in San Antomio, Texas, last Friday afternoon after a short illness of pneumonia. Accompanied by wife, daughter and son-in-law, Dr. Shobe, the remains were brought back to Paris, Sunday afternoon, and on Monday afternoon were laid to rest. The funeral services were conducted at the Christian church by Rev. E. L. Rutledge, assisted by Revs. Wright and Stuart. The sermon by Rev. Rutledge was one of the tenderest and most beautiful tributes ever heard in Paris. After the service the remains were excorted to the cemetery by a dozen of the old veterans with whom Capt. Pitts served in Cockrell's brigade during the war. As a mark of respect to his memory the stores were closed and business generally was suspended until after the funeral.
Capt. Pitts was one of the large numbe of Monroe county citizens who gave prompt response when the South called her sympathiser's to arms. Enlisting in Judge Theodore Brace's company, he took part in the battles of Lexington and Pea Ridge, and then as a member of Gen. Cockrell's famous brigade he participated in many of the greatest struggles of that greatest of all wars. At Atlanta, Corinth, Shiloh, Franklin, the old brigade of fighting Missourians immortalized themselves, and Capt. Pitts was one of the most daring and dashing soldiers that followed its flag.
A Franklin, Tenn., the brigade was almost annihilated. Eight hundred members answered to the roll before the fatal charge upon the federal breastworks, and six hundred of this number were killed or wounded in the desperate attempt to rout a superior force from its strong position. The company to which Capt. Pitts belonged was all but wiped out of existence, 21 of its 30 members falling within a few minutes. It was in this charge that Capt. Pitts lost his arm and it was here that Gen. Cockrell was badly wounded. Lieutenant Welch, Jo Kennedy Nim Hayden, Charley Lander and others from Monroe county were among the killed. Lieutenant Gillispie, Charley Hanger, Bob Carver, John Morelock, John Horn, Dick Bridgford and others fell just outside the works, while John Hanger fought his way over the defences and continued the struggle until wounded and taken prisoner. Wm. Giddings, James Dye and two others were all that remained of the original Company G, so fearful had been the fire from the seven-shooters of the troops behind the breastworks. While the battle still raged Capt. Pitts crawled into the brush, and there for five long, agonizing days he lay greviously wounded and unattended until finally found by federal troops who sent him to Camp Chase for confinement and treatment. While attending a reunion at NAshville several years ago Capt. Pitts met the Southern woman who nursed him back to health after the amputation of his arm.
Among the old comrades who fought in his brigade Charley and John Hanger; Jas. Lanham, John Morg McGee, Tim Miller, J. L. Pollard, Sam Adams, John Treadway, Gus Bower and several other Monroe county veterans survive him.
To Capt. Pitts, as much as to any one man, is due the credit for the establishment of the splendid home for ex-Confedertes, one of the grandest of all the grand institutions in the state of Missouri.
In 1875 he was married to Miss Laura Boulware, his death lacking just one day of falling on the thriteenth anniversary of his wedding.
A gentleman by nature, Capt. Pitts was invariably courteous and kind. To the boy upon the street or the negro at his woodpile, he was just as affable and defferential as to the man of wealth and position. In his home he was a most congenial, affectionate and indulgent husband and father. Honored and respected by his fellow-men in life, he is in death mourned by old and young, rich and poor, as a friend whose passing means a personal as well as a public loss.
The Paris Appeal, Paris, Missouri, February 10, 1905
(Contributors: Shelby County (MO) Historical Society and Pam Witherow)
Death of Captain Pitts
Capt. Frank Pitts, ex-State Treasurer and prosptment? in the politics of Missouri, died in his apartments on Alamo Plaza Friday evening of pneumonia. The body was shipped to Paris, MO., Friday night for burial.
(Contributor: Randy Clark)
FRANK L. PITTS
(Ex-Sheriff and Collector, Paris).
Mr. Pitts, a gallant one-armed ex-Confederate soldier, and one of the substantial citizens and most popular and highly esteemed men of Monroe county, was born near Shelbyville, in Shelby county, April 25, 1841. His parents, James P. and Gertrude (Jarman) Pitts, came from Maryland to Missouri as early as 1826. They first located at Hannibal, and from there, later along, went to Shelby county. But in 1845 they returned to Hannibal, where both lived until their deaths. The father was married a second time, and his widow is still living. He was a saddler and harness-maker by trade, and was successfully engaged in that line of business at Hannibal for years. He left a large family of children. Frank L., the sixth of his father's family of children, was reared at Hannibal, and brought up to the saddler and harness maker's trade. In 1860 he and his next eldest brother, Thomas W., came to Paris, and engaged in the saddlery trade and business at this place. The war breaking out soon afterwards, Mr. Pitts promptly enlisted in the Missouri State Guard under Capt. Brace, and while in this service participated in the battles of Lexington and Pea Ridge, and some minor engagements. He then enlisted in Co. G, Second Missouri infantry, under Col. Cockrell, and served until the close of the war, or rather until nearly the close, when, after having his arm shot off, he was taken prisoner and confined at Camp Chase until after peace was declared. We can not take the space to follow him through his four years of campaigning in the South, or to give any idea of the dangers and hardships through which he passed. Suffice it to say, that as a soldier he was distinguished for bravery among as brave a body of men as ever kept step to martial music, or faced death without fear on the field of battle. He participated in all the campaigns and battles in which his command took part, and was ever found in the front rank of his comrades where brave men dared to do and die for the cause that they held dearer than life. After the war and after his release from Camp Chase, Mr. Pitts returned to Paris and began the harness business again at this place. He continued it with success until 1872, when he was elected sheriff of the county. Two years later he was re-elected. At the close of his second term as sheriff, in 1876, he was elected collector of the county, and he was afterwards twice re-elected to that office, serving three consecutive terms as county collector. Since the close of his last term, in January, 1883, Mr. Pitts has not re-engaged in business. He has valuable property interests, however, to which he is giving his attention. He is also a large stockholder in the "Governor" silver mine of Colorado, and has made two trips to the West, looking after his interests in the mine. February 4, 1875, Mr. Pitts was married to Miss Laura F. Boulware, of Monroe county. They have an interesting little daughter, Kittie, now in her third year. One, a promising infant son, Harry E., died when less than a year old. Mrs. Pitts is a valued member of the Christian Church. Mr. Pitts is universally regarded as one of the most estimable men of the county, highly esteemed by all who know him.
From HISTORY OF MONROE & SHELBY COUNTIES, MISSOURI
(Contributor: Pam Witherow)
FORMER TREASURER OF STATE IS DEAD
Capt. Frank L. Pitts Dies of Catarrhal Pneumonia in San Antonio, Tex.
SAN ANTONIO, Tex., Feb. 4. — Capt. Frank L. Pitts, formerly state treasurer of Missouri, who came here three weeks ago to avoid the rigors of a northern winter, died late yesterday afternoon of catarrhal pneumonia, after a week's illness.
Dr. and Mrs. Shobe, son-in-law and daughter of Mr. Pitts, were present at his bedside when death came.
Capt. Pitts was born in Shelby County, Missouri, and later was a resident of Marion County. He was educated in the public schools and in the High School at Hannibal. He learned the trade of a mechanic and spent several years as a harness maker. His wife, who survives him, was formerly Miss Laura F. Boulware of Hannibal. Capt. Pitts was 62 years old.
He was a candidate for state treasurer in 1892, but was defeated for the nomination by former Gov. Lon V. Stephens. In 1896 he was nominated for the treasurership and elected.
During his residence in Monroe County Capt. Pitts held many offices, serving as sheriff for four years and collector for 10 years.
Arrangements for the funeral have not been made, but it is probable that it will not take place earlier than Sunday.
~~~~~~~
Judge Upton M. Young, formerly of Gen. Cockrell's staff, says:
"Capt. Pitts was one of the best soldiers in Cockrell's brigade. At the battle of Franklin, one of the bloodiest battles of the war, Capt. Pitts was severely wounded and lost an arm."
St. Louis Post-Dispatch, St. Louis, Missouri, 04 Feb 1905, Sat • Page 2, Column 5
(Contributor: Pam Witherow)
Monroe County's Distinguished Citizen Passed Away
Frank L. Pitts, one of the best known men in Monroe county died of pneumonia at San Antonio, Texas, last Friday. His health had been on the decline a year or more and in the early part of the winter he went South in the hope of receiving benefit.
Deceased was born near Shelbyville, Mo., April 25, 1841. In 1860, he and his brother, Thos. W. Pitts, who preceded him to the other world about two weeks ago, engaged in the harness business at Paris. When the war broke out Frank enlisted in the Company G. Second Missouri Infantry, under Col. F. M. Cockrell, serving until almost the close of the war, after losing an arm he was taken prisoner and held until peace was declared. He then returned to Paris and again took up the harness business which he followed until 1872. That year he was elected sheriff of Monroe county. Two year later he was reelected to that office, serving three consecutive terms.
In 1896 he was elected state treasurer and served four years. In public office, in business and in private life, Frank Pitts was held in highest esteem by all who knew him.
The remains were laid to rest at Paris last Monday.
February 09, 1905
(Contributed by Shelby County (MO) Historical Society & Museum/Posted by Pam Witherow)
Death of Capt. F. L. Pitts.
Born in Shelby county, April 25, 1841; died at San Antonio, Texas, February 4 [sic], 1905; a saddler and partner of Thos. W. Pitts at Paris in 1860; a soldier of the South and a hero on many a hard-fought bettle field, sacrificing his right arm upon the altar of the Confederacy; once more at the saddler's bench, maimed but independent, penniless but full of ex-Confederate grit and self-reliance; once constable of Jackson township twice sheriff and five times collector of Monroe county; once treasurer of the great state of Missouri; trustee for the splendid home of ex-Confederate soldiers; always considerate, courteous, kind and just — brave soldier, successful financier, popular citizens, affectionate husband, indulgent father. This, in brief, is the biography of Capt. Frank L. Pitts.
He died in San Antomio, Texas, last Friday afternoon after a short illness of pneumonia. Accompanied by wife, daughter and son-in-law, Dr. Shobe, the remains were brought back to Paris, Sunday afternoon, and on Monday afternoon were laid to rest. The funeral services were conducted at the Christian church by Rev. E. L. Rutledge, assisted by Revs. Wright and Stuart. The sermon by Rev. Rutledge was one of the tenderest and most beautiful tributes ever heard in Paris. After the service the remains were excorted to the cemetery by a dozen of the old veterans with whom Capt. Pitts served in Cockrell's brigade during the war. As a mark of respect to his memory the stores were closed and business generally was suspended until after the funeral.
Capt. Pitts was one of the large numbe of Monroe county citizens who gave prompt response when the South called her sympathiser's to arms. Enlisting in Judge Theodore Brace's company, he took part in the battles of Lexington and Pea Ridge, and then as a member of Gen. Cockrell's famous brigade he participated in many of the greatest struggles of that greatest of all wars. At Atlanta, Corinth, Shiloh, Franklin, the old brigade of fighting Missourians immortalized themselves, and Capt. Pitts was one of the most daring and dashing soldiers that followed its flag.
A Franklin, Tenn., the brigade was almost annihilated. Eight hundred members answered to the roll before the fatal charge upon the federal breastworks, and six hundred of this number were killed or wounded in the desperate attempt to rout a superior force from its strong position. The company to which Capt. Pitts belonged was all but wiped out of existence, 21 of its 30 members falling within a few minutes. It was in this charge that Capt. Pitts lost his arm and it was here that Gen. Cockrell was badly wounded. Lieutenant Welch, Jo Kennedy Nim Hayden, Charley Lander and others from Monroe county were among the killed. Lieutenant Gillispie, Charley Hanger, Bob Carver, John Morelock, John Horn, Dick Bridgford and others fell just outside the works, while John Hanger fought his way over the defences and continued the struggle until wounded and taken prisoner. Wm. Giddings, James Dye and two others were all that remained of the original Company G, so fearful had been the fire from the seven-shooters of the troops behind the breastworks. While the battle still raged Capt. Pitts crawled into the brush, and there for five long, agonizing days he lay greviously wounded and unattended until finally found by federal troops who sent him to Camp Chase for confinement and treatment. While attending a reunion at NAshville several years ago Capt. Pitts met the Southern woman who nursed him back to health after the amputation of his arm.
Among the old comrades who fought in his brigade Charley and John Hanger; Jas. Lanham, John Morg McGee, Tim Miller, J. L. Pollard, Sam Adams, John Treadway, Gus Bower and several other Monroe county veterans survive him.
To Capt. Pitts, as much as to any one man, is due the credit for the establishment of the splendid home for ex-Confedertes, one of the grandest of all the grand institutions in the state of Missouri.
In 1875 he was married to Miss Laura Boulware, his death lacking just one day of falling on the thriteenth anniversary of his wedding.
A gentleman by nature, Capt. Pitts was invariably courteous and kind. To the boy upon the street or the negro at his woodpile, he was just as affable and defferential as to the man of wealth and position. In his home he was a most congenial, affectionate and indulgent husband and father. Honored and respected by his fellow-men in life, he is in death mourned by old and young, rich and poor, as a friend whose passing means a personal as well as a public loss.
The Paris Appeal, Paris, Missouri, February 10, 1905
(Contributors: Shelby County (MO) Historical Society and Pam Witherow)
Saturday, February 4, 1905 Paper: San Antonio Express (San Antonio, TX) Volume: XL Issue: 35 Page: 5
Death of Captain Pitts
Capt. Frank Pitts, ex-State Treasurer and prosptment? in the politics of Missouri, died in his apartments on Alamo Plaza Friday evening of pneumonia. The body was shipped to Paris, MO., Friday night for burial.
(Contributor: Randy Clark)
FRANK L. PITTS
(Ex-Sheriff and Collector, Paris).
Mr. Pitts, a gallant one-armed ex-Confederate soldier, and one of the substantial citizens and most popular and highly esteemed men of Monroe county, was born near Shelbyville, in Shelby county, April 25, 1841. His parents, James P. and Gertrude (Jarman) Pitts, came from Maryland to Missouri as early as 1826. They first located at Hannibal, and from there, later along, went to Shelby county. But in 1845 they returned to Hannibal, where both lived until their deaths. The father was married a second time, and his widow is still living. He was a saddler and harness-maker by trade, and was successfully engaged in that line of business at Hannibal for years. He left a large family of children. Frank L., the sixth of his father's family of children, was reared at Hannibal, and brought up to the saddler and harness maker's trade. In 1860 he and his next eldest brother, Thomas W., came to Paris, and engaged in the saddlery trade and business at this place. The war breaking out soon afterwards, Mr. Pitts promptly enlisted in the Missouri State Guard under Capt. Brace, and while in this service participated in the battles of Lexington and Pea Ridge, and some minor engagements. He then enlisted in Co. G, Second Missouri infantry, under Col. Cockrell, and served until the close of the war, or rather until nearly the close, when, after having his arm shot off, he was taken prisoner and confined at Camp Chase until after peace was declared. We can not take the space to follow him through his four years of campaigning in the South, or to give any idea of the dangers and hardships through which he passed. Suffice it to say, that as a soldier he was distinguished for bravery among as brave a body of men as ever kept step to martial music, or faced death without fear on the field of battle. He participated in all the campaigns and battles in which his command took part, and was ever found in the front rank of his comrades where brave men dared to do and die for the cause that they held dearer than life. After the war and after his release from Camp Chase, Mr. Pitts returned to Paris and began the harness business again at this place. He continued it with success until 1872, when he was elected sheriff of the county. Two years later he was re-elected. At the close of his second term as sheriff, in 1876, he was elected collector of the county, and he was afterwards twice re-elected to that office, serving three consecutive terms as county collector. Since the close of his last term, in January, 1883, Mr. Pitts has not re-engaged in business. He has valuable property interests, however, to which he is giving his attention. He is also a large stockholder in the "Governor" silver mine of Colorado, and has made two trips to the West, looking after his interests in the mine. February 4, 1875, Mr. Pitts was married to Miss Laura F. Boulware, of Monroe county. They have an interesting little daughter, Kittie, now in her third year. One, a promising infant son, Harry E., died when less than a year old. Mrs. Pitts is a valued member of the Christian Church. Mr. Pitts is universally regarded as one of the most estimable men of the county, highly esteemed by all who know him.
From HISTORY OF MONROE & SHELBY COUNTIES, MISSOURI
(Contributor: Pam Witherow)
FORMER TREASURER OF STATE IS DEAD
Capt. Frank L. Pitts Dies of Catarrhal Pneumonia in San Antonio, Tex.
SAN ANTONIO, Tex., Feb. 4. — Capt. Frank L. Pitts, formerly state treasurer of Missouri, who came here three weeks ago to avoid the rigors of a northern winter, died late yesterday afternoon of catarrhal pneumonia, after a week's illness.
Dr. and Mrs. Shobe, son-in-law and daughter of Mr. Pitts, were present at his bedside when death came.
Capt. Pitts was born in Shelby County, Missouri, and later was a resident of Marion County. He was educated in the public schools and in the High School at Hannibal. He learned the trade of a mechanic and spent several years as a harness maker. His wife, who survives him, was formerly Miss Laura F. Boulware of Hannibal. Capt. Pitts was 62 years old.
He was a candidate for state treasurer in 1892, but was defeated for the nomination by former Gov. Lon V. Stephens. In 1896 he was nominated for the treasurership and elected.
During his residence in Monroe County Capt. Pitts held many offices, serving as sheriff for four years and collector for 10 years.
Arrangements for the funeral have not been made, but it is probable that it will not take place earlier than Sunday.
~~~~~~~
Judge Upton M. Young, formerly of Gen. Cockrell's staff, says:
"Capt. Pitts was one of the best soldiers in Cockrell's brigade. At the battle of Franklin, one of the bloodiest battles of the war, Capt. Pitts was severely wounded and lost an arm."
St. Louis Post-Dispatch, St. Louis, Missouri, 04 Feb 1905, Sat • Page 2, Column 5
(Contributor: Pam Witherow)
Monroe County's Distinguished Citizen Passed Away
Frank L. Pitts, one of the best known men in Monroe county died of pneumonia at San Antonio, Texas, last Friday. His health had been on the decline a year or more and in the early part of the winter he went South in the hope of receiving benefit.
Deceased was born near Shelbyville, Mo., April 25, 1841. In 1860, he and his brother, Thos. W. Pitts, who preceded him to the other world about two weeks ago, engaged in the harness business at Paris. When the war broke out Frank enlisted in the Company G. Second Missouri Infantry, under Col. F. M. Cockrell, serving until almost the close of the war, after losing an arm he was taken prisoner and held until peace was declared. He then returned to Paris and again took up the harness business which he followed until 1872. That year he was elected sheriff of Monroe county. Two year later he was reelected to that office, serving three consecutive terms.
In 1896 he was elected state treasurer and served four years. In public office, in business and in private life, Frank Pitts was held in highest esteem by all who knew him.
The remains were laid to rest at Paris last Monday.
February 09, 1905
(Contributed by Shelby County (MO) Historical Society & Museum/Posted by Pam Witherow)
Death of Capt. F. L. Pitts.
Born in Shelby county, April 25, 1841; died at San Antonio, Texas, February 4 [sic], 1905; a saddler and partner of Thos. W. Pitts at Paris in 1860; a soldier of the South and a hero on many a hard-fought bettle field, sacrificing his right arm upon the altar of the Confederacy; once more at the saddler's bench, maimed but independent, penniless but full of ex-Confederate grit and self-reliance; once constable of Jackson township twice sheriff and five times collector of Monroe county; once treasurer of the great state of Missouri; trustee for the splendid home of ex-Confederate soldiers; always considerate, courteous, kind and just — brave soldier, successful financier, popular citizens, affectionate husband, indulgent father. This, in brief, is the biography of Capt. Frank L. Pitts.
He died in San Antomio, Texas, last Friday afternoon after a short illness of pneumonia. Accompanied by wife, daughter and son-in-law, Dr. Shobe, the remains were brought back to Paris, Sunday afternoon, and on Monday afternoon were laid to rest. The funeral services were conducted at the Christian church by Rev. E. L. Rutledge, assisted by Revs. Wright and Stuart. The sermon by Rev. Rutledge was one of the tenderest and most beautiful tributes ever heard in Paris. After the service the remains were excorted to the cemetery by a dozen of the old veterans with whom Capt. Pitts served in Cockrell's brigade during the war. As a mark of respect to his memory the stores were closed and business generally was suspended until after the funeral.
Capt. Pitts was one of the large numbe of Monroe county citizens who gave prompt response when the South called her sympathiser's to arms. Enlisting in Judge Theodore Brace's company, he took part in the battles of Lexington and Pea Ridge, and then as a member of Gen. Cockrell's famous brigade he participated in many of the greatest struggles of that greatest of all wars. At Atlanta, Corinth, Shiloh, Franklin, the old brigade of fighting Missourians immortalized themselves, and Capt. Pitts was one of the most daring and dashing soldiers that followed its flag.
A Franklin, Tenn., the brigade was almost annihilated. Eight hundred members answered to the roll before the fatal charge upon the federal breastworks, and six hundred of this number were killed or wounded in the desperate attempt to rout a superior force from its strong position. The company to which Capt. Pitts belonged was all but wiped out of existence, 21 of its 30 members falling within a few minutes. It was in this charge that Capt. Pitts lost his arm and it was here that Gen. Cockrell was badly wounded. Lieutenant Welch, Jo Kennedy Nim Hayden, Charley Lander and others from Monroe county were among the killed. Lieutenant Gillispie, Charley Hanger, Bob Carver, John Morelock, John Horn, Dick Bridgford and others fell just outside the works, while John Hanger fought his way over the defences and continued the struggle until wounded and taken prisoner. Wm. Giddings, James Dye and two others were all that remained of the original Company G, so fearful had been the fire from the seven-shooters of the troops behind the breastworks. While the battle still raged Capt. Pitts crawled into the brush, and there for five long, agonizing days he lay greviously wounded and unattended until finally found by federal troops who sent him to Camp Chase for confinement and treatment. While attending a reunion at NAshville several years ago Capt. Pitts met the Southern woman who nursed him back to health after the amputation of his arm.
Among the old comrades who fought in his brigade Charley and John Hanger; Jas. Lanham, John Morg McGee, Tim Miller, J. L. Pollard, Sam Adams, John Treadway, Gus Bower and several other Monroe county veterans survive him.
To Capt. Pitts, as much as to any one man, is due the credit for the establishment of the splendid home for ex-Confedertes, one of the grandest of all the grand institutions in the state of Missouri.
In 1875 he was married to Miss Laura Boulware, his death lacking just one day of falling on the thriteenth anniversary of his wedding.
A gentleman by nature, Capt. Pitts was invariably courteous and kind. To the boy upon the street or the negro at his woodpile, he was just as affable and defferential as to the man of wealth and position. In his home he was a most congenial, affectionate and indulgent husband and father. Honored and respected by his fellow-men in life, he is in death mourned by old and young, rich and poor, as a friend whose passing means a personal as well as a public loss.
The Paris Appeal, Paris, Missouri, February 10, 1905
(Contributors: Shelby County (MO) Historical Society and Pam Witherow)
Death of Captain Pitts
Capt. Frank Pitts, ex-State Treasurer and prosptment? in the politics of Missouri, died in his apartments on Alamo Plaza Friday evening of pneumonia. The body was shipped to Paris, MO., Friday night for burial.
(Contributor: Randy Clark)
FRANK L. PITTS
(Ex-Sheriff and Collector, Paris).
Mr. Pitts, a gallant one-armed ex-Confederate soldier, and one of the substantial citizens and most popular and highly esteemed men of Monroe county, was born near Shelbyville, in Shelby county, April 25, 1841. His parents, James P. and Gertrude (Jarman) Pitts, came from Maryland to Missouri as early as 1826. They first located at Hannibal, and from there, later along, went to Shelby county. But in 1845 they returned to Hannibal, where both lived until their deaths. The father was married a second time, and his widow is still living. He was a saddler and harness-maker by trade, and was successfully engaged in that line of business at Hannibal for years. He left a large family of children. Frank L., the sixth of his father's family of children, was reared at Hannibal, and brought up to the saddler and harness maker's trade. In 1860 he and his next eldest brother, Thomas W., came to Paris, and engaged in the saddlery trade and business at this place. The war breaking out soon afterwards, Mr. Pitts promptly enlisted in the Missouri State Guard under Capt. Brace, and while in this service participated in the battles of Lexington and Pea Ridge, and some minor engagements. He then enlisted in Co. G, Second Missouri infantry, under Col. Cockrell, and served until the close of the war, or rather until nearly the close, when, after having his arm shot off, he was taken prisoner and confined at Camp Chase until after peace was declared. We can not take the space to follow him through his four years of campaigning in the South, or to give any idea of the dangers and hardships through which he passed. Suffice it to say, that as a soldier he was distinguished for bravery among as brave a body of men as ever kept step to martial music, or faced death without fear on the field of battle. He participated in all the campaigns and battles in which his command took part, and was ever found in the front rank of his comrades where brave men dared to do and die for the cause that they held dearer than life. After the war and after his release from Camp Chase, Mr. Pitts returned to Paris and began the harness business again at this place. He continued it with success until 1872, when he was elected sheriff of the county. Two years later he was re-elected. At the close of his second term as sheriff, in 1876, he was elected collector of the county, and he was afterwards twice re-elected to that office, serving three consecutive terms as county collector. Since the close of his last term, in January, 1883, Mr. Pitts has not re-engaged in business. He has valuable property interests, however, to which he is giving his attention. He is also a large stockholder in the "Governor" silver mine of Colorado, and has made two trips to the West, looking after his interests in the mine. February 4, 1875, Mr. Pitts was married to Miss Laura F. Boulware, of Monroe county. They have an interesting little daughter, Kittie, now in her third year. One, a promising infant son, Harry E., died when less than a year old. Mrs. Pitts is a valued member of the Christian Church. Mr. Pitts is universally regarded as one of the most estimable men of the county, highly esteemed by all who know him.
From HISTORY OF MONROE & SHELBY COUNTIES, MISSOURI
(Contributor: Pam Witherow)
FORMER TREASURER OF STATE IS DEAD
Capt. Frank L. Pitts Dies of Catarrhal Pneumonia in San Antonio, Tex.
SAN ANTONIO, Tex., Feb. 4. — Capt. Frank L. Pitts, formerly state treasurer of Missouri, who came here three weeks ago to avoid the rigors of a northern winter, died late yesterday afternoon of catarrhal pneumonia, after a week's illness.
Dr. and Mrs. Shobe, son-in-law and daughter of Mr. Pitts, were present at his bedside when death came.
Capt. Pitts was born in Shelby County, Missouri, and later was a resident of Marion County. He was educated in the public schools and in the High School at Hannibal. He learned the trade of a mechanic and spent several years as a harness maker. His wife, who survives him, was formerly Miss Laura F. Boulware of Hannibal. Capt. Pitts was 62 years old.
He was a candidate for state treasurer in 1892, but was defeated for the nomination by former Gov. Lon V. Stephens. In 1896 he was nominated for the treasurership and elected.
During his residence in Monroe County Capt. Pitts held many offices, serving as sheriff for four years and collector for 10 years.
Arrangements for the funeral have not been made, but it is probable that it will not take place earlier than Sunday.
~~~~~~~
Judge Upton M. Young, formerly of Gen. Cockrell's staff, says:
"Capt. Pitts was one of the best soldiers in Cockrell's brigade. At the battle of Franklin, one of the bloodiest battles of the war, Capt. Pitts was severely wounded and lost an arm."
St. Louis Post-Dispatch, St. Louis, Missouri, 04 Feb 1905, Sat • Page 2, Column 5
(Contributor: Pam Witherow)
Monroe County's Distinguished Citizen Passed Away
Frank L. Pitts, one of the best known men in Monroe county died of pneumonia at San Antonio, Texas, last Friday. His health had been on the decline a year or more and in the early part of the winter he went South in the hope of receiving benefit.
Deceased was born near Shelbyville, Mo., April 25, 1841. In 1860, he and his brother, Thos. W. Pitts, who preceded him to the other world about two weeks ago, engaged in the harness business at Paris. When the war broke out Frank enlisted in the Company G. Second Missouri Infantry, under Col. F. M. Cockrell, serving until almost the close of the war, after losing an arm he was taken prisoner and held until peace was declared. He then returned to Paris and again took up the harness business which he followed until 1872. That year he was elected sheriff of Monroe county. Two year later he was reelected to that office, serving three consecutive terms.
In 1896 he was elected state treasurer and served four years. In public office, in business and in private life, Frank Pitts was held in highest esteem by all who knew him.
The remains were laid to rest at Paris last Monday.
February 09, 1905
(Contributed by Shelby County (MO) Historical Society & Museum/Posted by Pam Witherow)
Death of Capt. F. L. Pitts.
Born in Shelby county, April 25, 1841; died at San Antonio, Texas, February 4 [sic], 1905; a saddler and partner of Thos. W. Pitts at Paris in 1860; a soldier of the South and a hero on many a hard-fought bettle field, sacrificing his right arm upon the altar of the Confederacy; once more at the saddler's bench, maimed but independent, penniless but full of ex-Confederate grit and self-reliance; once constable of Jackson township twice sheriff and five times collector of Monroe county; once treasurer of the great state of Missouri; trustee for the splendid home of ex-Confederate soldiers; always considerate, courteous, kind and just — brave soldier, successful financier, popular citizens, affectionate husband, indulgent father. This, in brief, is the biography of Capt. Frank L. Pitts.
He died in San Antomio, Texas, last Friday afternoon after a short illness of pneumonia. Accompanied by wife, daughter and son-in-law, Dr. Shobe, the remains were brought back to Paris, Sunday afternoon, and on Monday afternoon were laid to rest. The funeral services were conducted at the Christian church by Rev. E. L. Rutledge, assisted by Revs. Wright and Stuart. The sermon by Rev. Rutledge was one of the tenderest and most beautiful tributes ever heard in Paris. After the service the remains were excorted to the cemetery by a dozen of the old veterans with whom Capt. Pitts served in Cockrell's brigade during the war. As a mark of respect to his memory the stores were closed and business generally was suspended until after the funeral.
Capt. Pitts was one of the large numbe of Monroe county citizens who gave prompt response when the South called her sympathiser's to arms. Enlisting in Judge Theodore Brace's company, he took part in the battles of Lexington and Pea Ridge, and then as a member of Gen. Cockrell's famous brigade he participated in many of the greatest struggles of that greatest of all wars. At Atlanta, Corinth, Shiloh, Franklin, the old brigade of fighting Missourians immortalized themselves, and Capt. Pitts was one of the most daring and dashing soldiers that followed its flag.
A Franklin, Tenn., the brigade was almost annihilated. Eight hundred members answered to the roll before the fatal charge upon the federal breastworks, and six hundred of this number were killed or wounded in the desperate attempt to rout a superior force from its strong position. The company to which Capt. Pitts belonged was all but wiped out of existence, 21 of its 30 members falling within a few minutes. It was in this charge that Capt. Pitts lost his arm and it was here that Gen. Cockrell was badly wounded. Lieutenant Welch, Jo Kennedy Nim Hayden, Charley Lander and others from Monroe county were among the killed. Lieutenant Gillispie, Charley Hanger, Bob Carver, John Morelock, John Horn, Dick Bridgford and others fell just outside the works, while John Hanger fought his way over the defences and continued the struggle until wounded and taken prisoner. Wm. Giddings, James Dye and two others were all that remained of the original Company G, so fearful had been the fire from the seven-shooters of the troops behind the breastworks. While the battle still raged Capt. Pitts crawled into the brush, and there for five long, agonizing days he lay greviously wounded and unattended until finally found by federal troops who sent him to Camp Chase for confinement and treatment. While attending a reunion at NAshville several years ago Capt. Pitts met the Southern woman who nursed him back to health after the amputation of his arm.
Among the old comrades who fought in his brigade Charley and John Hanger; Jas. Lanham, John Morg McGee, Tim Miller, J. L. Pollard, Sam Adams, John Treadway, Gus Bower and several other Monroe county veterans survive him.
To Capt. Pitts, as much as to any one man, is due the credit for the establishment of the splendid home for ex-Confedertes, one of the grandest of all the grand institutions in the state of Missouri.
In 1875 he was married to Miss Laura Boulware, his death lacking just one day of falling on the thriteenth anniversary of his wedding.
A gentleman by nature, Capt. Pitts was invariably courteous and kind. To the boy upon the street or the negro at his woodpile, he was just as affable and defferential as to the man of wealth and position. In his home he was a most congenial, affectionate and indulgent husband and father. Honored and respected by his fellow-men in life, he is in death mourned by old and young, rich and poor, as a friend whose passing means a personal as well as a public loss.
The Paris Appeal, Paris, Missouri, February 10, 1905
(Contributors: Shelby County (MO) Historical Society and Pam Witherow)
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