John Merritt’s residence in Lapeer city was somewhat damaged by fire Feb. 9. It was occupied by a family named Muir.—The dwelling of John Brooks, three miles from Lapeer, burned the same night, with its contents, the family barely making their escape, and with scanty clothing. They were compelled to walk barefoot three-quarters of a mile before shelter could be found, and as the night was extremely cold the feet of the children were badly frozen.—Wm. LaFountain, of Lapeer township, eloped the other day with a Mrs. Bearman, of Attica. LaFountain is 50 and the woman 23. He leaves a wife and six children behind.—The Universalists are to build a church in Lapeer the coming season.—Imlay city has now a paper, the Advance.

The Times Herald (Port Huron, MI) Tuesday, 16 Feb 1875, page 4