Jonathan Bell, former slave owner and once one of the wealthiest men in Oglethorpe County, Georgia, passed away at the age of 80, having predicted his own demise just days before.
Bell, whose fortunes were devastated by the Civil War, made headlines by testing his custom-made, waterproof coffin filled with water to ensure it met his unique specifications.
Particular About His Coffin
Jonathan Bell, a prominent citizen of Oglethorpe County, Georgia, is dead, aged 80 years.
Before the war [Civil War] he was vert wealthy, owning considerable property in the county and hundreds of slaves. The war completely ruined him.
He had his coffin made a number of years ago.
He told his friends a few days ago he would soon die, and to send for his coffin.
He then ordered it made waterproof, and he had the makers fill it full of water, screw the lid on and turn it over and over.
They did so in his presence, and was satisfied.
He died the next day and was laid away to rest.
Source: Daily independent. (Elko, Nev.), 08 Sept. 1887.
