Daniel Webster Rundell

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Daniel Webster Rundell
1838-1887

In January 1887 members of the Grand Army of the Republic gathered at the Tonawanda Scott Post headquarters. They gathered for a special meeting to discuss the funeral of Thomas Marling who was to be buried the next morning. Daniel was set to play fife and drum at the service for his late comrade.

However, at some point during the meeting, Rundell began to cough violently and spit blood. The room that had been filled with ordinary conversation turned into chaos. Bright red blood poured from his mouth as he struggled to breathe. His comrades rushed toward him as he choked and gasped. A physician who belonged to the post hurried to help, but there was nothing anyone could do. Within minutes, Daniel Rundell was dead on the floor of the meeting hall.

He was remembered fondly for his music. He played the fife and drum and performed with local groups like the Scott Post Band and the Lumber City Band. Like many veterans, he helped keep the traditions and spirit of the old soldiers alive through parades, ceremonies, and music.

When Daniel Rundell was laid to rest, his fellow veterans honored him with full Grand Army rites.


Sources: Historical Society of The Tonawandas, Newspapers.com, Ancestry.com, Familysearch.com
Fultonhistory.com


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