From the March 23, 1903 New York Times:

“Findlay, Ohio–On his way from school eight-year-old Clarence Hummell, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Hummell of East Front Street, was captured by five schoolmates, forced to accompany them down the Blanchard River, outside the city limits, and there, in a secluded spot, was tied to a stake.

Preparations for his cremation were being made when the little fellow’s cries attracted the attention of men who were employed in the vicinity, and he was rescued by them. Young Hummell’s captors had witnessed the production of ‘Tracey,’ a play in which the hero was the outlaw, and in talking it over made plans for the capture of a victim and his burning at the stake.”