Alliance Historical Society – Olive Poisoning Centennial Commemoration Service

On August 23, 1919, a dinner party was held for returning war hero Col. C. C. Weybrecht at the Lakeside Country Club in Canton. The hostess, Mrs. Helen Sebring Gahris brought a jar of ripe olives to the dinner to decorate the table. Little did she know that the olives were tainted with botulism. As a result, a total of 7 guests, including Col. Weybrecht died over the next several days. Four of the victims are buried in the Alliance City Cemetery. This cemetery tour and commemoration will reflect on the lives of those who died in this tragic Alliance event.