On July 16, 1852, a significant and sensational crime occurred in Fall River, Massachusetts, involving the death of Gideon Manchester, a former constable. The events of that morning were marked by a series of burglaries and a subsequent pursuit that led to Manchester's fatal encounter.
Early on the morning of July 16, 1852, several houses on Rock Street in Fall River were burglarized. The homes of Israel Buffinton, Artemas Willard, Samuel Brown, Elijah Almy, and Rev. A. P.
Mason were among those targeted by the burglar. Two young men witnessed the burglaries and followed the suspect, eventually pointing him out to Gideon Manchester.
Manchester, recognizing the importance of apprehending the burglar, engaged in conversation with the suspect and accompanied him down Pine Street toward the shore. As they approached the corner of Elm and Central streets, the burglar, later identified as James Clough, began to run northward on Elm Street. Manchester pursued Clough, who, realizing he was being overtaken, turned and fired a shot that inflicted wounds on Manchester. These wounds would prove fatal, leading to Manchester's death three days later.
Following the shooting, Clough took refuge under a barn at the corner of Pine and Durfee streets. He was subsequently captured, identified, and placed in a cell. During his incarceration, Clough nearly escaped by opening his cell door and donning clothes belonging to one of his guards, but he was quickly discovered and prevented from escaping further.
James Clough was tried, convicted, and eventually executed for the murder of Gideon Manchester. The trial and execution took place in Taunton, highlighting the severe consequences of Clough's actions. Manchester's funeral was held in the Town Hall, with services conducted by ministers from various denominations, including the Baptist, Congregationalist, Methodist, and Presbyterian churches, reflecting the community's respect and mourning for the former constable.
