When headlines from the September 9th, 1922 edition of The Washington Post caught my eye, I couldn’t help but delve into the intriguing story that unfolded nearly a century ago. The headline, “Minnie Wiseman Carries Secret Behind Deed to Grave — Love Affair Suspected,” hinted at a haunting and sorrowful tale that resonates with the lost and untold stories of Washington, D.C. Let’s dive into the depths of history and unearth the details surrounding this enigmatic incident.

The Tragic End of Minnie Wiseman: In the tranquil neighborhood of Williamsville, Virginia, Minnie Wiseman, a young and beautiful 18-year-old domestic, found herself at the center of a heart-wrenching event. She had sought employment at the residence of John J. Sligh, located at 1709 Q Street Northwest, in our beloved capital. Little did she know that her life would take a dark turn, leading to a tragic and untimely demise.

On that fateful day, Miss Wiseman was discovered writhing in agony, her frail body succumbing to the effects of carbolic acid poisoning. Promptly rushed to Emergency Hospital, hopes were high for her recovery, but she tragically passed away within an hour of her arrival.

Unveiling the Mystery: In the aftermath of this devastating event, the authorities were left puzzled, as Minnie Wiseman refused to disclose the reasons behind her desperate act. Whispers of a shattered love affair filled the air, suggesting that her romantic aspirations may have ended in disappointment. However, these claims remain speculative, as the identity of the man linked to Miss Wiseman’s alleged affections is yet to be established.

Seeking Answers from History: To truly comprehend the circumstances that led to Minnie Wiseman’s heartrending decision, we must examine the historical backdrop of carbolic acid poisoning and its association with suicide during that era. By understanding the prevalence and accessibility of this toxic substance, we can gain valuable insights into the challenges and despair faced by individuals in their darkest moments.

Unearthing Forgotten Stories: While Minnie Wiseman’s tale may stir feelings of sadness and unease, it serves as a poignant reminder of the many untold stories that lie hidden within the annals of Washington, D.C.’s history. These lost narratives beckon us to delve deeper, to explore the lives and struggles of those who came before us, ultimately breathing life into forgotten voices.

A Glimmer of Light: Amidst the shadows of this haunting account, it is worth noting that the same address—1709 Q Street Northwest—has witnessed moments of happiness and joy. In a separate story, it mentions the daughter of Congressman William A. Jones, offering a glimpse into a more lighthearted chapter tied to this historical residence.

Conclusion: As we embrace the stories that history conceals, we unveil a tapestry of human experiences—both tragic and triumphant. The tale of Minnie Wiseman, forever etched within the fabric of Washington, D.C.’s past, serves as a poignant reminder of the forgotten voices that yearn to be heard. Let us continue our quest to unearth the untold narratives, weaving them into the rich tapestry of our shared history.

Below is the article excerpted from the Washington Post .

Writhing in agony, pretty Minnie Wiseman, 18 years old, of Williamsville, Va., a domestic employed at the home of John J. Sligh, 1709 Q street northwest, was found lying across the bed in her room yesterday suffering from carbolic acid poisoning. Miss Wiseman, was taken to Emergency hospital, where she died an hour after arriving at the institution.

Lieut. Plemmons, night chief of detectives was notified of the girl’s death, and sent word to her relatives at Williamsville. Coroner Nevitt ordered the body removed to the District morgue.

Miss Wiseman refused to say why she had swallowed the poison. It was reported last night, however, that the girl had been disappointed in a love affair. The authorities are endeavoring to establish the identity of a man from whom Miss Wiseman is alleged to have received attentions. Mr. Sligh, could advance no reason to the authorities as to why the girl should want to take her life.

Now that is a sad, creepy and ghostly story. To read a happier story about this same address, check out this one that mentions the daughter of Congressman William A. Jones.