Murder of Michael Guckion

Michael Guckion was born May 11, 1860, in Davenport, Iowa, to Terrence and Ann (Heeney) Guckion. He was raised in Davenport. He was a rope maker, by trade. He died on Dec. 9. 1887, as a result of the brutal beating he received at the hands of Tobias "Toby" Alexander, about 2 weeks earlier, on November 27. At the time of his death he was the only surviving son of his parents. He is survived by his widowed mother, Ann, who lived at 2132 Farnum and 2 sisters: Bridget Guckion and Mrs. John (Mary) Cinadr. Michael was buried in St. Margeurite's (Mt. Calvary) Cemetery in Davenport, Iowa.
His killer was found guilty of manslaughter and was sentenced.

Nov. 28, 1887 Democrat & Leader
"Yesterday afternoon Mike Guckyon, while under the influence of some of Davenport's celebrated prohibition beverage, attempted to enter a negro dive on Second between Iowa and Rock Island streets. The negress in charge refused to let him come in and knocked him down, when Tobe Alexander, one of the inmates of the place, jumped on Guckyon and pummelled him in a most brutal manner. Officer Howard appeared on the scene and arrested Alexander and took him to the station house. Guckyon was taken home and a physician called. He was unconscious and at first appeared to be dead. Alexander is a negro of the most brutal type and gives his place of residence at St. Joseph, Mo., which fact would be sufficient in other cities to send him down the road. Of all the worst type, St. Joseph takes pre-eminence. The worse the negro, the more likely he is to hail from St. Joseph."

Dec. 10, 1887 Messenger
"Michael Guckeon who was brutally assaulted by the negro on Second Street last week lies seriously ill at his mother's residence 2132 Farnum Street. It is improbable that he will recover."

Dec. 10, 1887 Democrat & Leader
Last evening at a few minutes after five o'clock occurred the death of Michael Guckyon, who was so brutally pounded by Tobe Alezander two weeks ago to-morrow. The coroner held a post mortem examination this morning, and this afternoon is engaged in holging the inquest. The jurors are John McSteen, Joseph Gimble and Walter Chambers. The witnesses summoned are Molly Smart, at whose house the affair occurred, and her sister, Nellie Johnson, Sylvester Houer, Thomas Shaughnessy, Mrs. John Swindle, Mrs. Glass, Chris Monroe and Frank Fisher. The post mortem examination was conducted by Drs. Cantwell and Grant.

March 17, 1888 Messenger
"The trial of Toby Alexander for the murder of Michael Guckeon took place, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday in the district court. County attorney Ficke and E. M. Sharon presented and George Gould defended the prisoner. After hearing the evidence the jury brought in a verdict of manslaughter. The judge has not as yet sentenced the prisoner. "