42–1,281

lornajarrettblanchard January 1, 1880

Document created by Wayne Blanchard Feb 2015; revised Dec 2019 for website: Deadliest American Disasters and Large-Loss-Of-Life Events. https://www.usdeadlyevents.com/

–1,281 Blanchard tally based on State and locality breakouts below.^[1]

— 871 Census. “Table VII. Mortality of the U.S. from Disease…June 1, 1880.” 1885, p. 44.^[2]

Summary of State Breakouts below

California ( 27) San Francisco

Colorado ( 2)

Connecticut ( 11)

District of Columbia ( 17)

Georgia ( 2)

Illinois ( 43) Chicago

Indiana ( 4)

Iowa ( 1)

Kansas ( 4)

Louisiana ( 15)

Maine ( 2)

Maryland ( 5)

Massachusetts ( 38) Worcester especially

Michigan ( 3)

Minnesota ( 1)

Missouri ( 1)

Nebraska ( 7)

New Hampshire ( 3)

New Jersey ( 47) Camden especially

New Mexico ( 39)

New York ( 42) New York City especially, also Brooklyn and Troy

North Carolina ( 1)

Ohio ( 2)

Pennsylvania (429) Philadelphia

South Carolina ( 1)

Tennessee ( 2)

Texas (517)

Vermont ( 4)

Virginia ( 5)

West Virginia ( 1)

Wisconsin ( 5) Total: 1,281

Breakout of 1880 Smallpox Fatalities by State and Locality (where known):

California (27) San Francisco

–27 Blanchard tally from breakouts below.

— 2 State. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State Groups…Specified Disease.” 1885, pp. 78, 82[3]

— 1 San Francisco Aug 1-7. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104.^[4]

— 3 “ Sep 12-18. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 1 “ Oct 17-23. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 1 “ Oct 31-Nov 6. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

–13 “ Nov 7-13. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 2 “ Nov 14-20. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 2 “ Nov 21-27. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 2 “ Nov 28-Dec 4. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 2 “ Dec 12-18. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

Colorado ( 2)

— 2 State. U.S. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State Groups…Specified Disease.” 1885, p. 86

Connecticut (11)

— 11 State. U.S. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State Groups…Specified Disease.” 1885, p. 94

Dakota Territory ( 1)

— 1 Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State Groups…Specified Disease.” 1885, p. 110.

District of Columbia (17)

— 3 Week ending Jan 3, 1880. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 102.

— 3 Week ending Jan 10. “ Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 102.

— 3 Week ending Jan 17. “ Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 102.[5]

— 2 Week ending Jan 24. “ Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 102.

— 2 Week ending Jan 31. “ Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 102.

— 2 Week ending Feb 14. “ Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 1 Week ending Feb 21. “ Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 1 Week ending Mar 20. “ Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

Georgia ( 2)

— 2 State. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State Groups…Specified Disease.” 1885, p. 126.

Illinois (43) Chicago

–43 Chicago. U.S. National Board of Health. Annual Report of…1883, 1884, p. 134.[6]

— 1 Chicago, Apr 4-10. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet…Clinic. 1-28-1882, 103.[7]

— 3 “ Apr 10-17. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 4 “ Week ending May 1. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 2 “ Week ending May 8. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 1 “ Week ending May 15. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 1 “ Week ending May 22. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 3 “ Week ending Jun 19. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 6 “ Week ending Jun 26. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 1 “ Week ending Jul 10. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104.

— 2 “ Week ending Jul 17. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104.

— 1 “ Week ending Aug 14. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104.

— 1 “ Week ending Sep 18. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 1 “ Week ending Sep 25. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 1 “ Week ending Oct 9. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 1 “ Week ending Oct 30. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 1 “ Week ending Dec 11. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 6 “ Week ending Dec 25. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

Indiana ( 4)

— 4 State. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State Groups…Specified Disease.” 1885, 158, 162.

Iowa ( 1)

— 1 State. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State Groups…Specified Disease.” 1885, p. 170.

Kansas ( 4)

— 4 State. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State Groups…Specified Disease.” 1885, p. 178.

Louisiana ( 15)

— 15 State. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State Groups…Specified Disease.” 1885, p. 202.

Maine ( 2)

— 2 State. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State Groups…Specified Disease.” 1885, p. 214.

Maryland ( 5)

— 5 State. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State Groups…Specified Disease.” 1885, p. 222.

Massachusetts (38) Especially Worcester

–38 State. Sec. of Commonwealth. Thirty-Ninth Report…Year Ending Dec 31, 1880. P. 59.^[8]

–38 State Boston Medical and Surgical Journal. Vol. CIX, July-Dec 1883, pp. 498-499.[9]

— 1 Boston Week ending Oct 16. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 2 Fall River. Week ending May 8. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 1 “ Week ending May 15. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 1 Lowell Week ending May 15. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 6 Worcester Jan 1-Jan 20. Fitchburg Daily Sentinel (MA). “County,” Jan 20, 1880, p. 2.

— 5 “ Week ending Jan 24. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 102.

— 1 “ Week ending Jan 31. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 102.

— 2 “ Week ending Feb 07. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 2 “ Week ending Feb 14. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 2 “ Week ending Feb 21. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 1 “ Week ending Apr 23. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

Michigan ( 3)

–6 State. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State Groups…Disease.” 1885, p. 238, 242.[10]

–3 Smallpox. MI Sec. State. 19^th An. Rpt. Deaths…Michigan…1885. 1887, p. 143.^[11]

–2 Grand Rapids. ~ Feb 16. Marshall Daily Chronicle (MI). “State and County,” 2-17-1880.

–1 Ypsilanti. Month of March 1880. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

Minnesota ( 1)

— 1 State. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State Groups…Specified Disease.” 1885, p. 246.

Missouri ( 1)

— 1 State. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State Groups…Specified Disease.” 1885, p. 270.

Nebraska ( 7)

— 7 State. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State Groups…Specified Disease.” 1885, p. 294.

New Hampshire (3)

–3 State. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State Groups…Specified Disease.” 1885, p. 310, 314.

New Jersey ( 47) Camden especially

–47 Blanchard tally based on sources below.

— 3 State, by June 1. US Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State…Disease.” 1885, 318.

— 2 Camden^[12] Aug 1-7. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, p. 104.

— 3 “ Aug 8-14. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104.

— 9 “ Week ending Aug 21. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104.

— 5 “ Week ending Aug 28. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104.

— 3 “ Week ending Sep 4. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 4 “ Week ending Sep 11. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 1 “ Week ending Oct 2. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 1 “ Week ending Oct 9. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 1 “ Week ending Oct 16. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 2 “ Week ending Oct 23. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 3 “ Week ending Oct 30. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 2 “ Week ending Nov 6. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 1 “ Week ending Nov 13. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 1 “ Week ending Nov 20. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 3 “ Week ending Dec 4. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 2 “ Week ending Dec 11. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 1 “ Week ending Dec 25. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

New Mexico ( 39)

–39 State, by June 1. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State…Disease.” 1885, pp. 326, 330.

New York ( 42) New York City especially

–42 State Blanchard tally based on breakouts below.

–29 State, by June 1. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State…Disease.” 1885, pp. 338, 346, 350.

— ? Albany. Cases reported. NY Times. “Small-Pox Appears in Troy.” 9-5-1880, p. 7.

— 1 Brooklyn, July 11-17. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 28 Jan 1882, 104.

— 1 “ Sep19-25. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 28 Jan 1882, 105.[13]

— 1 “ Nov 7-13. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 28 Jan 1882, 105.[14]

— 3 Kingston, Jan 11-17. Minor. “Smallpox” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 102.

— 1 Lansingburgh, Oct 3-9. Minor. “Smallpox” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

–31 New York. Annual Rpt. of Dept. of Health of the City of [NY] for Years 1911-1912., p. 227.

— 1 “ week ending May 15. Minor. “Smallpox” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103

— 1 “ week ending May 29. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 2 “ week ending July 31. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104.

— 1 “ ~Sep 8. Child at No. 215 East One Hundred and Twelfth Street. NYT, 9-18-1880.

— 2 “ week ending Sep 25. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 1 “ week ending Oct 16. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 1 “ week ending Oct 23. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 1 “ week ending Nov 20. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 3 “ week ending Nov 27. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 7 “ week ending Dec 11. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 2 “ week ending Dec 18. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 3 “ week ending Dec 25. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 6 “ week ending Jan 1, `81. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 106.

— 1 Troy March. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, p. 103.

— 1 “ Sep 3. Thomas Graham. NY Times. “Small-Pox Appears in Troy.” 9-5-1880, p. 7.

— 2 “ Sep 4. Ephraim Aston and unidentified man. NYT. “Small-Pox…Troy.” 9-5-1880,

North Carolina ( 1)

— 1 State, by Jun 1. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State…Disease.” 1885, p. 362.

Ohio ( 2)

— 2 State, by Jun 1. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State…Disease.” 1885, p. 374.

Pennsylvania ( 429) Philadelphia

–429 Philadelphia. Blanchard tally based on date breakouts below.

–424 “ City of Philadelphia. Annual Report (Vol. III), 1907, 100.^[15]

— 3 “ Dec 28-Jan 3. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 102.

— 1 “ Week ending Jan 10. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 102.

— 3 “ Week ending Jan 17. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 102.

— 4 “ Week ending Jan 24. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 102.

— 2 “ Week ending Jan 31. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 102.

— 2 “ Week ending Feb 7. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 102.

— 3 “ Week ending Feb 14. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 5 “ Week ending Feb 21. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 5 “ Week ending Feb 28. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 2 “ Week ending Mar 6. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 4 “ Week ending Mar 20 Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 1 “ Week ending Mar 27 Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 1 “ Week ending Apr 3. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 3 “ Week ending Apr 17 Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 1 “ Week ending Apr 24 Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 1 “ Week ending May 1. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 2 “ Week ending May 8. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103.

— 3 “ Week ending May 15 Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103

— 3 “ Week ending May 22 Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103

— 1 “ Week ending May 29 Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 103

— 3 “ Week ending Jun 12. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104

— 1 “ Week ending Jun 19. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104.

— 2 “ Week ending Jun 26. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104.

— 1 “ Week ending July 3. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104.

— 1 “ Week ending July 10 Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104.

— 1 “ Week ending July 24 Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104.

— 2 “ Week ending Jul 31. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104.

— 7 “ Week ending Aug 7. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104.

— 3 “ Week ending Aug 14. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104

— 3 “ Week ending Aug 21. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104

— 5 “ Week ending Aug 28. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 104

— 8 “ Week ending Sep 4. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 7 “ Week ending Sep 11. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 6 “ Week ending Sep 18. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 7 “ Week ending Sep 25. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 5 “ Week ending Oct 2. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 9 “ Week ending Oct 9. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 13 “ Week ending Oct 16. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 11 “ Week ending Oct 23. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 10 “ Week ending Oct 30. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 22 “ Week ending Nov 6. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 18 “ Week ending Nov 13. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 20 “ Week ending Nov 20. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 25 “ Week ending Nov 27. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 32 “ Week ending Dec 4. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 26 “ Week ending Dec 11. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 40 “ Week ending Dec 18. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 38 “ Week ending Dec 25. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 105.

— 53 “ Week ending Jan 1, `81. Minor. “Smallpox,” Cincinnati Lancet. 1-28-1882, 106.

South Carolina ( 1)

— 1 State, by Jun 1. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State…Disease.” 1885, p. 398.

Tennessee ( 2)

— 2 State, by Jun 1. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State…Disease.” 1885, p. 410.

Texas (517)

–517 State, by Jun 1. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State…Disease.” 1885, pp. 426, 430, 434.

Vermont ( 4)

— 4 State, by Jun 1. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State…Disease.” 1885, p. 442.

Virginia ( 5)

— 5 State, by Jun 1. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State…Disease.” 1885, p. 450.

West Virginia ( 1)

— 1 State, by June 1. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State…Disease.” 1885, p. 466.

Wisconsin ( 5)

— 5 State, by June 1. Census. “Table VII. Mortality…State…Disease.” 1885, p. 482, 486.

— 1 Chippewa Falls. Daily Free Press, Eau Claire WI. “Genuine Heroism,” Jan 9, 1880, p1, c4.

— 2 Nashotah Station. Oshkosh Daily Northwestern (WI). “Latest News,” May 6, 1880, p. 4.

Chronological Notes:

Jan 1, 1880, Ottawa, Canada: “There is a small pox scare at Ottawa, Ont., and the loathsome disease is spreading rapidly.” (Fitchburg Sentinel (MA). Jan 1, 1880, p. 3.)

Jan 3, 1880, Glenbeulah, WI: “Small pox is reported at Glenbeulah.” (Milwaukee Daily News. “The State,” Jan 3, 1880, p. 2.)

Jan 3, 1880, New York City: “A family sick with small pox were found on board the steamer Westphalia on her arrival at New York, Saturday [3^rd]. The family consisted of Mrs. L. Light, of New York, and her three children, who were returning from Germany.” (Petersburg Index-Appeal (VA). “News and Views,” Jan 6, 1880, p. 1.)

Jan 4, 1880, Petersburg, VA: “To the Public: From information received from the National Board of health we learn that deaths from small-pox, since November 15^th, 1879, have occurred in St. Johns, Canada; New York, Philadelphia, Washington and San Antonio, and the authorities have been unable to trace its origin in either place; therefore, as guardians of the public health, we deem it right and proper that the public should be warned of its danger. For years past we have been exempt from this disease, and our citizens have been lulled into security; hence have neglected to use the protecting influence of vaccination. “Physicians will be supplied with virus on application to the President Board of Health. No case of the disease has, as yet, appeared in this city. The city authorities will vaccinate all indigent persons who may apply…Respectively, C. V. Robinson, President Board Health.” (Petersburg Index-Appeal (VA). “To the Public,” Jan 7, 1880, p.2, c. 3.)

Jan 9, 1880, Chippewa Falls, WI: “Some weeks ago a man came from Nova Scotia to Chippewa Falls, Wis., to visit a relative. Soon after arriving he was taken ill with small-pox and was removed to an out of the way place where he died. It is thought by some that death resulted from neglect and improper treatment. Three of the family with whom he stopped were attacked with the plague – the husband, wife and their little daughter. The girl died, but the others have recovered, and the disease, by careful precaution, has been confined to this one house, which is located in a densely populated part of town…..Of course the clothing will be burned and the premises thoroughly disinfected. It is needless to say that the appearance of the small pox caused great alarm and the citizens generally vaccinated, for which the generous physicians, we understand, charged the moderate sum of one dollar each.” (Daily Free Press (Eau Claire WI). “Genuine Heroism,” Jan 9, 1880, p. 1, col. 4.)

Jan 15, 1880, Washington, DC: “Among the senatorial stories sent westward by telegraph, to occupy the wires and the columns of the newspapers during the holiday recess of congress, was one to the effect that the smallpox was ‘ravaging’ Washington; that there were ‘hundreds of cases’ in the city, &c. Now this city has a health officer, at whose office every physician must report all diseases coming under his treatment; a failure to report subjecting the physician to a fine of $50. At this health office there have been, from the summer months and up to this date, twenty cases of smallpox reported. That this report is correct I have no doubt; for my residence is in East Washington, in the center of what is reported to be the ‘infected district;’ this is a ‘suburb’ about the size of Dubuque; and among their thirty thousand inhabitants we have had six or eight cases of smallpox within the past six or eight weeks. The disease is, to all appearance, completely under control. The health office advertises to vaccinate free of expense all who are unable to pay the expense of being vaccinated; and the principal consequence of the ‘scare’ has been to induce a large proportion of the inhabitants of the capital to become vaccinated.” (Dubuque Daily Herald (IA). “Washington…Smallpox,” Jan 15, 1880. p. 2, col. 3.)

Jan 19, 1880 San Francisco: “The steamer City of Peking has just arrived from Hong Kong and Yokohama and has been sent to quarantine having two cases of smallpox on board. A special meeting of the board of health has been called for this afternoon and until their decision is reached no communication will be permitted between this ship and the shore.” (Morning Oregonian (Portland). “Smallpox in San Francisco Bay,” Jan 20, 1880, p. 1, col. 4.)

Jan 20, 1880, Worcester, MA: “The small-pox is on the increase at Worcester, six new cases and two deaths having been reported since Saturday noon. Of the 15 cases thus far reported six have died. The disease is confined to the suburbs.” (Fitchburg Daily Sentinel (MA). “County,” Jan 20, 1880, p. 2.)

Jan 22, 1880, Benwood, OH: “Small-pox has appeared at Benwood, opposite Wheeling [WV] on the B & O road.” (Cambridge-Jeffersonian (OH). Jan 22, 1880, p. 3.)

Jan 1880: Smallpox makes first fatal appearance in Worcester, MA. Deaths also recorded in Kingstown, NY, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC. (Minor 1882, 102) Also Wisconsin.

Feb 4, 1880, Grand Rapids, MI: “A case of small pox was discovered at the Eagle Hotel, Grand Rapids, on the 4^th . After exposing a good many more the patient was removed to the pest house and the hotel quarantined.” (St. Joseph Traveler-Herald (MI). “State News.” 2-7-1880, 2)

Feb 25, 1880, Canton, Dakota: “Canton Dakota has the small-pox and vaccination is a popular pastime among the boys and girls.” (Iowa Liberal, Le Mars. “Local Shorts,” Feb 25, 1880, p. 1.)

Feb 1880: Deaths in Philly (15), Washington, DC (4), Worcester, MA (6). (Minor 1882, 103)

March 10, 1880, Rio Grande City, TX: “At Rio Grande City small-pox is doing its deadly work among the natives….” (Galveston Daily News. “Texas News Items,” March 10, 1880, p. 5.)

March 12, Southwest TX: “The Rockport Transcript says reports from the frontier towns indicate the appearance of numerous and fatal cases of small-pox, and as travel is unrestricted from that section, the disease is liable to spread over the west.” (Galveston Daily News. “Small-Pox in Southwestern Texas.” 3-12-1880, p. 12.)

March 17, 1880, El Paso, TX: “Several cases [of smallpox] are reported in El Paso.” (Las Cruces Thirty-Four, NM. “Locals,” March 17, 1880, p. 3.)

March 1880: Deaths in Philly (3), Ypsilanti MI (2), Troy, NY (1) and DC (1). (Minor 1882, 103)

April 7, 1880, Chicago: “Chicago…Three cases of well-defined smallpox were reported in this city to-day….” (Lebanon Daily News (PA). “Small Pox in Chicago,” April 8, 1880, p. 1.)

April 19, 1880, Fall River, MA: “A case of small pox is announced at Fall River.” (Fitchburg Daily Sentinel (MA). “Miscellaneous,” April 19, 1880, p. 3.)

April 1880: Deaths: Chicago (4), Cincinnati (1), Philly (5), and Worcester (1). (Minor 1882, 103). (Minor 1882, 103)

May 3, 1880, MA: “There are six cases of small-pox at the hospital in Fall River [MA], the disease having been introduced by a family of French Canadians, who lately came to reside at Flint Village [MA]. The authorities are actively engaged in causing vaccinations among the French community.” (Fitchburg Sentinel, MA. “Local Matters,” May 3, 1880, p. 3.)

May 5, 1880: “A Chicago dispatch states that Dr. A. A. Demars, who has been attending small pox patients is down with the disease. The physician’s wife and daughter are expected to follow. The rush in all directions for vaccination seems to increase and sufficient supply of vaccine matter cannot be procured. It is estimated that about 1,000 ‘points’ are being used in the city daily, and twice that number could be if it were possible to get them.” (Algona Upper Des Moines, IA. “General Notes,” May 5, 1880, p. 2.)

May 6, 1880: “The small pox has appeared at Lowell on the Ohio river.” (Cambridge Jeffersonian, OH. “Ohio News,” May 6, 1880, p. 2.)

May 6, 1880: “Two cases of small-pox have occurred at Nashotah Station [WI], in Oconomowoc County. Peter Everson lately returned from Chicago sick, and died Tuesday afternoon. His brother Lewis took it in the meantime and died the same day.” (Oshkosh Daily Northwestern (WI). “Latest News,” May 6, 1880, p. 4.)

May 11, 1880, DC: “Washington, D.C., May 11.—The annual meeting of the national board of health closed to-day….A resolution was adopted, urging the importance of properly vaccinating European immigrants at United States ports, to prevent the introduction of small pox, and other diseases, into the several states, and directing the executive committee to ascertain from quarantine authorities to what extent such vaccinations are made at present, and to adopt such measures as will accomplish such object. Referred to the committee now engaged considering means and measures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.” (Galveston Daily News. “National Board of Health,” May 12, 1880, p.1.)

May 1880: Deaths: Chicago (8), Fall River MA (3), Lowell MA (1), New York (1), Philadelphia (10). (Minor 1882, 103) Nashotah Station, WI (2). (Oshkosh Daily Northwestern,” May 6, 1880.) “During the month cases were also reported at Orange Court House, Virginia.” (Minor 1882, 103)

June 1880, Springfield, IL: “The small-pox has broken out in the Springfield, Ill. Jail…” (Dubuque Daily Herald, IA. June 23, 1880, p. 2.)

Sep 3, Troy NY: “Troy, N.Y., Sept. 3. – There are 50 cases of small-pox reported in this city to-night. Two deaths have already occurred and another patient is dying.” (NYT. “Small-Pox in Troy.” 9-4-1880, p. 2.)

Sep 4, Troy NY: “Troy, N.Y., Sept. 4. – Something of a panic exists in the lower part of this city, owing to the appearance of small-pox in epidemic form. Some residents of the infected region say that several isolated cases have appeared there during the past year. In every instance, it is alleged, the disease was contracted in Albany, where last Spring it raged with so much violence and where it is reported there is now a large number of cases. The disease first began to spread here last week. Thomas Graham, who had been employed for some time in Albany, died last night. To-day Ephraim Aston died of the disease. Five or six persons were removed to the pest-house to-day. One person, name unknown was buried to-night; the grave-differs said he was a small-pox victim. Active measures to stamp out the disease were not taken until Thursday [Sep 2]. The Health Officer claims that Dr. Prefontaine, who attended most of the persons living in the infected district, did not report the cases promptly, and that thereby the disease has been permitted to spread and cause apprehension. All told there have ben reported since Thursday 15 cases. These are all quarantined. The schools will be closed and steps be taken by owners of iron working establishments in that region, to furlough all employes who have been exposed to contagion…”(New York Times. “Small-Pox Appears in Troy.” 9-5-1880, p. 7.)

Nov 3, San Francisco: “San Francisco, Nov. 3. – On Monday [Nov 1] 36 cases of small-pox were discovered in this city and taken to the pest-house. The Health Officer has been granted extraordinary powers.” (New York Times. “Small-Pox in California.” 11-4-1880, p. 5.)

Nov 4, San Francisco: “San Francisco, Nov. 4. – Thirty-four additional cases of small-pox were reported here yesterday.” (New York Times. “Small-Pox in San Francisco.” 11-5-1880, p. 5.)

Nov 5, San Francisco: “San Francisco, Nov. 5. – Seventeen new cases of small-pox were reported to-day up to noon.” (New York Times. “Small-Pox in San Francisco.” 11-6-1880, p. 5.)

Nov 6, San Francisco: “San Francisco, Cal., Nov. 6. – Five new cases of small-pox were reported to-day.” (New York Times. “Small-Pox in San Francisco.” 11-7-1880, p. 2.)

Jan 22, 1881: “Not since the winter of 1871-73, when the ravages of small pox continued for months and carried hundreds to the grave, has Philadelphia been so seriously infected with the dreaded disease as it is at the present time.

“From January 1 to Saturday last, a period of only fifteen days, 95 deaths were reported at the health office. The serious proportions which the disease has assumed is best shown in the fact that of the 525 deaths that have occurred from November, 1879, to the 15th inst., fully 250 were reported during the past eleven weeks, showing a weekly average of over 31 deaths for a period of nearly three months. During the week ending December 4 last, 32 deaths occurred; week ending December 11, 26; week ending December 18,40; week ending December 25, 38; week ending January 1, 53; week ending January 8, 55; week ending January 15, 40,

“Thus, during the past seven weeks, 284 deaths have been officially recorded. Last week alone nearly 200 new cases were reported, and during the past two days over 80 new cases have been discovered by physicians and the health authorities., At the present time there are 120 small pox patients in the municipal hospital. Since the winter set in cases of small pox have occurred in the alms house, house of correction, Girard college, the southern home, insane asylum, St. John’s orphan home – in fact nearly every large public institution in Philadelphia.” (Lebanon Daily News, PA. “Extent of the Plague in Philadelphia.” 1-22-1881, p. 4.)

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[1] The explanation for difference between the Census figure and our tabulation is that the Census report is for first 5 months of 1880, whereas our sources include later months.

[2] “Table VII. Mortality of the United States and of Each State Group, From Each Specified Disease and Class of Diseases…During the Census Year Ending June 1, 1880.” In: U.S. Dept. of Interior, Census Office. Report on the Mortality and Vital Statistics of the [US] as Returned at the Tenth Census (June 1, 1880), Part I. 1885.

[3] The Census covered June 1879 to end of May 1880 (or the first five months of 1880).

[4] From the Bulletins of the National Board of Health.

[5] The New York Times (“Small-Pox in Washington,” Jan 21) also notes nine DC smallpox deaths by Jan 20.

[6] “Table of mortality from small-pox in the city of Chicago from 1851 to 1882, inclusive.” p. 134.

[7] A NYT article out of Chicago April 7, noted “Three cases of well-defined small-pox were reported in this city to-day. The disease is said to have come from Richton and Monee, two small stations on the Illinois Central Railroad.”

[8] Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth. Thirty-Ninth Report to the Legislature of [MA] Relating to the Registry and Return of Births…and Deaths in the Commonwealth, for the Year Ending December 31, 1880. 1881.

[9] “Registration Report of Massachusetts for the Year 1882.”

[10] Since the Census reports includes deaths during June 1, 1879 to the end of the year, we will rely on MI report.

[11] Table 69. Deaths in Michigan from some of the Prominent Zymotic Diseases during…Twelve Years, 1874-1885.

[12] “Early in February a negro who had been white-washing a house in Philadelphia that had been infected by smallpox was stricken down with the disease at Camden. Neighbors visited him during his illness and in this way spread the disease. In July it became epidemic.”

[13] Probable reference to Clara Spiegel, 12, found dead in bed Sep 23. (NYT. “Small-Pox…Brooklyn.” 10-1-1880, 8.)

[14] Probable reference to child of Frederick Kraft, 56 Flatbush Ave., about 4, on Nov 8. (NYT. 11-9-1880, p. 1.)

[15] Table entitled “Deaths from Smallpox from 1807 to 1907, inclusive, and Rate per 1,000 of Population.” Notes death rate of 0.5 per 1,000 population. Previous year was 0.006.