October 31, 1838 – Two Iowa politicians – Cyrus S. Jacobs (Democrat) and David Rorer (Whig) – face off on a downtown street in Burlington – the Iowa Territorial capital. When Rorer refuses to apologize for remarks made in the local newspaper, Jacobs pulls a gun and then strikes Rorer with his cane. Rorer draws his own pistol and fires, killing Jacobs.
So, you think politics today are intense? During the fall campaign of 1838, David Rorer (Whig) condemned “a damned Pennsylvania faction” within the Democratic Party for his party’s losses – which was taken as a slam against Pennsylvania native and local journalist, Cyrus S. Jacobs. On All Hallows’ Eve in 1838, on the quiet streets of Burlington, Iowa, passion in politics drove these two well-known attorneys to the ultimate battle. And yes, only one came out alive!
Come read the spooky tale of Cyrus S. Jacobs vs. David Rorer. One Democrat + One Whig = One intense encounter!
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