Ballard, Z, Beeville Bee, Wednesday, 28 Jan 1891:

Mr. Z. Ballard, one of the best citizens of the western portion of this county, 
died of pneumonia Saturday.  In that neighborhood as in many parts of the 
county there is some delay when a death occurs in getting together the 
necessary tools for digging the grave.  A few weeks ago a subscription was 
taken up exclusive for that purpose and Mr. Ballard purchased the tools in 
the city.  He little thought that the tools would be first used in his own burial.