Mexborough and Swinton Times September 20 1919

Mexborough Youngster Fatally Crushed at Kilnhurst.

Mr. Frank Allen held an inquest at the Montagu Hospital, Mexborough, on Tuesday, on John Emmerson (11), horseboy, Stenton’s Yard, 97, Market Street, Mexboro’, who was fatally injured at Kilnhurst on September 5 by being crushed against a barge and the canal bridge, and died in the Montagu Hospital, after amputation, last Friday.

Evidence was given by Walter Emmerson, father of the dead boy, who said that his son and only been at work with the barge five days before the accident occurred. He saw him twice in hospital, but the boy was unable to tell what happened

Aaron Barras, bargemaster, of Stainforth, employed by Beevers, Ltd., canal carriers  and timber merchants, said Emmerson came to work for him about Sept. 1. On the day of the accident, about 9.30 am the barge was lying at Kilnhurst Bridge. Emmerson had been driving the horse, and had stopped it to come on hoard for breakfast. The boat was moving slowly toward the side as deceased attempted to step on board. His foot slipped off the bulwark, and he fell between the boat and the bridge. His right thigh was caught. Witness got him out as quickly as he could, and took him to the Commercial Hotel, Kilnhurst, where he and others rendered first aid, and he was later seen by a doctor, who ordered his immediate removal to hospital. He was taken to the Montagu Hospital in a trap.

In answer to the Coroner, witness said there had been no “larking.”

Sister Wesley, matron of the Montagu “Hospital, said Emmerson was admitted suffering from a compound fracture of the right leg. Dr. Lee examined him, and a week later amputation became necessary. The boy died from exhaustion following the amputation.

Mr. John Thompson, on behalf of the employees, expressed sympathy with the parents.

A verdict of “Accidental death” was recorded.