Norfolk Landmark, February 3, 1876

MURDER IN ACCOMAC.

reprinted from Eastern Virginian, January 28.Moral -- Murder

Onancock and neighborhood was startled late in the afternoon of Saturday last, by the news of the finding of the dead body of a woman lying in a small thicket in a field located about a mile and a half from here, and belonging to Mr. P. A. Leatherbury, of this town. On examination, it proved to be the remains of Miss Nancy Scott, who had evidently been murdered elsewhere and subsequently dragged to the place where her body was found. Four ugly wounds made by some blunt instrument were discovered, as follows: One just below and another above the right ear; about two and a half inches from the neck was another wound, and still another on the temple. The body laid on the right side, head to the North. She had on a slat bonnet, which was drawn well over the face, a plaid shawl, and a light purple calico dress, all arranged smoothly, the situation bearing no evidences of a struggle, but proving conclusively that the deed had been done elsewhere.

Miss Scott was about 46 years of age, had been considered handsome, and seems to have enjoyed the favor of many of the opposite sex. She was, at the time of her death, residing with her sister Mrs. Allen, at the mouth of Deep Creek. She was last seen on the morning of Friday, the 21st inst., by Captain W. S. Custis, crossing in the field of William Drummond, (colored,) and going in the direction of Thomas Holden's house, also colored, whose wife Melvina Holden, is now in jail awaiting further examination. Several surmises are abroad as to the probable cause of the murder. But no evidence has been gained as to their authenticity, or who is the assassin. A mask made of a newspaper was found near the body. It is believed that the woman Holden now in jail knows more than she professes; indeed it is reported that she has said she dare not tell all she knows. The matter is wrapped in mystery at present, and we forego giving at this time any speculation about the tragedy.

Norfolk Landmark
Norfolk, Virginia
February 3, 1876