14 TEACHERS NEARLY DROWN

LAUNCH CARRYING PICKNICKERS HITS PIPE IN THE MOUSE RIVER

Minot, N.D., Sept. 17.—Fourteen school teachers had a narrow escape from drowning yesterday afternoon in the Mouse river when the launch of George Bissel struck an iron pipe under water and started to leak.

The propeller of the boat was knocked off and other damage was done. Bissel believes the pipe was laid under the water for the purpose of wrecking the boat.

The young women were not panic-stricken yesterday following the collision. The boat drifted toward the short and all climbed out.

The teachers were on their way to Wildwood, where they were going to hold a picnic. Following the accident they changed their plans and went to the home of Mrs. John Campbell, 313 Jarvis street, where they had lunch and spent the afternoon.

Williston Graphic, 9/18/1913

Editor: Bissel later sued Olaf Olson for blocking the river; the state denied his claim based on the fact the Mouse river had not been deemed navigable.