Chapter 13
December 1894
Farewell
Munich Times – Monday, December 17, 1894 – Sixteen-year-old Johann Thomas was struck and killed by a southbound electric Städtische Straßenbahnen train on Thursday, December 12, at 11:45 a.m. The accident occurred in central Munich near the town hall. Young Thomas, of Obergiesing, lost control of his bicycle and fell onto the tracks in front of the train. According to Munich County Coroner Hans Gottlieb, he would have died instantly from his wounds. Foul play is suspected, according to the Munich Police Department and Munich County Coroner, though there is no ascertainable motive.
The new bells of St. Luke’s Lutheran Church rang out mournfully, announcing the passing of Johann Thomas. The gray winter skies felt heavy over Munich; all the drearier since
