Miscellaneous, Sensation in Pharsalia, 1915

Real Sensation in Pharsalia

Bainbridge Republican, Dec. 16, 1915

 

Pharsalia is to be credited with the real sensation of the month in criminal records in Chenango county and the deeds were all perpetuated in one day, Sunday, Dec. 12.

 

The families of Edward Sayles and of Leroy Bush live not very far distant from each other in the town of Plymouth on the road leading from Hady's Corners toward East Pharsalia.  Whatever history antedates the happenings of sundae could not be learned but in the forenoon while Mr. Sayles went to the factory with the milk, the 15-years old daughter, Hazel, who keeps house for the father and 17 year old brother, Clarence, either eloped with or was abducted by Ralph Bush, the 20-year-old son of neighbor Bush.  With them it is alleged went a purse of $60 belonging to Mr. Sayles and which was kept in a dresser.

 

Upon  Mr. Sayles return from the factory as he reached the top of a hill adjacent to the farm upon which he lives he saw that flames were breaking through the roof of his home.  Driving as rapidly as possible he soon reached the house and helped his son, Clarence, save a large part of the furniture which was in the big 12-room house.  The fire started in the attic, presumably from an over heated chimney, and had gained such headway that the entire structure was destroyed although neighbors gathered to help save it if possible. 

 

After the excitement of the fire was over the disappearance of Miss Hazel was noted and soon it was learned that Ralph Bush had come to the house soon after Mr. Sayle's departure and that the couple had gone away together.  Sheriff Holcomb was notified about 2 o 'clock in the afternoon and together with his deputies and the town constables began a search for the missing pair.  They were finally located at the home of Leo Newton in Pharsalia and there constable Leon Miner took them into custory and brought them to Norwich, where Bush is now locked in the county jail and young miss is in the custody of Humane Officer Deuel, awaiting definite action by the district attorney and an examination.