From the Liberty, Missouri, Weekly Tribune, of February 24, 1882:
Mr. Dorris' special mission to his old home, was to remove the remains of his elder brother, John, who died twenty-seven years ago, and was buried in our cemetery. The metallic casket was removed to Mr. Lutes' shop, and many friends looked again on the features of one dead for twenty-seven years. The clothing of the body and the drapery of the casket were well preserved. The flesh and original form were slightly contracted. The face, forehead, chin, nose and lips had the appearance of red wax. The upper lip was drawn, and a splendid set of teeth was exposed. The eye-balls were perfect, but had a death-like stare. His handsome necktie was as perfect as on the day of his burial. His other clothing appeared but slightly changed.John Dorris was the son of a former Missouri legislator, George Poole Dorris.