One of the most sad accidents in the history of Whatcom occurred at about noon Sunday when Lewis Mayhew, in company with his wife and a party of friends, was drowned near Deadman's point in the bay. The merry party were in a naptha launch and had started for Cottonwood Island to spend the day. All went well until they rounded the point, when a party in a sail boat near shore asked Mr. Mayhew for a tow farther into the Bay as they were becalmed. This he consented to do and stepped to the front of the boat near his wife who was steering. As he stood clinging to the railing, it gave way, throwing him backwards into the water. The launch was going at full speed and before it could be stopped had left Mr. Mayhew several rods behind. Mrs. Mayhew launched a small boat and rowed to her husband's assistance, but he sank when she was within about 30 feet of him. He did not come to the surface again. Mr. Mayhew was 35 years of age on the day of his death. He had resided on the Bay for about 23 years and was well and favorably known throughout the county. He was engaged in the plumbing and tinning business with his brother, under the name of Mayhew Bros. He leaves a widow, parents, brother, sister and a host of warm friends to mourn for him.
