We very much enjoyed learning about John Simpson’s family tree in last night’s episode of ‘Who Do You Think You Are?’

In particular, we were amazed by the derring-do antics of John’s ‘adoptive’ great-grandfather, Samuel Franklin Cody.

Tragically, Colonel Cody was killed in a flying accident on 7 August 1913.

Included below is the newspaper report of the accident that was featured in last night’s programme, and which greatly moved John while he was reading it aloud.

We’ve also included a photo of Colonel Cody.

Aberdeen Journal – Friday 08 August 1913

Image © D.C.Thomson & Co. Ltd. Image created courtesy of THE BRITISH LIBRARY BOARD.

http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000576/19130808/028/0004

Western Gazette – Friday 15 August 1913

Image © Local World Limited. Image created courtesy of THE BRITISH LIBRARY BOARD.

http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0000407/19130815/070/0009