In response to the needs of our policyholders, we began offering accident insurance in 1885. This was a drastic departure for a life insurance company at the time, but we recognized that all hazards to human life and health are equally important to plan for. The new accident coverage was popular, and quickly demonstrated its value. The second claim filed (for $50), resulted from an injury sustained while the insured was setting a wagon brake-only fifteen minutes after becoming one of our policyholders.