On September 10, 1852, Third Ward Watchman Stowder left the stationhouse at 3 a.m. after roll call and was headed toward his home on East Front Street.  Later in the morning, he was found dead in the street near his residence, stabbed through the heart. 

Initially, a man identifying himself as William F. Chaffee and another man were arrested on suspicion of the killing.  By September 13, 1852, police had determined that Watchman Stowder was actively investigating Chaffee for counterfeiting and that he and others were due to meet Chaffee on the next morning. We do not yet know if Chaffee was tried.

If you have further information, artifacts, or pictures of this officer, please contact the Museum Director at Director@GCPHS.com.