The normally celebratory atmosphere of Emancipation Day was marred by a violent altercation last night, involving a man who had traveled from Mexico, Missouri, to join the festivities. The incident took place at a house on East Rollins Street, a known gathering spot for Moberly’s African American community.

The visitor from Mexico found himself in a heated argument with an unfamiliar local man. As tensions escalated, the stranger brandished a razor and viciously attacked. The blade sliced through the Mexico man’s throat, starting from a point on his left cheekbone. In a fortunate twist of fate, the razor caught on the point of his chin, preventing a fatal wound. The attacker, realizing the gravity of his actions, fled the scene and has since evaded capture by the police.

The injured man was swiftly provided medical treatment and, despite the severity of his injuries, is expected to recover. The prompt response by the authorities, who were alerted to the house by an emergency call, revealed more than just the aftermath of the assault. Alleged evidence of bootlegging activities was discovered, leading the police to search for Snow Terrill, another local African American resident, in connection with these illicit operations.

The police’s arrival and subsequent investigation have stirred the community, highlighting underlying tensions and the darker side of the festive gatherings. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the volatility that can accompany large social events and the hidden issues that can surface unexpectedly.

As the news spread, the community of Moberly found itself grappling with the dual shock of the near-fatal assault and the revelation of illegal activities. The ongoing search for the assailant and Snow Terrill keeps the local authorities and residents on edge, casting a shadow over the otherwise jubilant Emancipation Day celebrations.

This narrative, reflecting the events of August 5, 1915, captures a moment of violence and subsequent discovery within the African American community of Moberly, as originally reported by the Moberly Weekly Monitor. The preservation of this account by The State Historical Society of Missouri ensures that such historical episodes, with all their complexity and impact, are not forgotten.