Miscellaneous - Afton Resident Recalls Fire of 1884

Afton Resident Recalls Famous "Fire of 1884"

 

Afton [Chenango Co., NY]:  Hobart A. Benedict, 73-year-old resident of Afton and former station agent on the D.&H. Railroad here, has many interesting things to tell of the history of Afton, but the event which he enjoys relating most is the "fire of 1884" which destroyed all of the business blocks on the east side of Main street.

 

Perhaps the reason why Mr. Benedict always likes to recall this fire is because he helped to fight the blaze as a volunteer; also because he summoned aid from Binghamton by means of the telegraph.

 

In a recent interview, Mr. Benedict said:  "The fire started on a Saturday night, shortly before 12 o'clock.  All of the church bells were rung, there being no fire alarm in the village at that time.  A large scene of the fire and the Afton bucket brigade began to try to combat the flames.  It was found that the Willey Block, which was situated in the business section of the village on the site of the present Village Hall, was all ablaze."

 

Continuing, Mr. Benedict said, "All of the buildings from the spot where the dwelling owned by Wesley Handy now stands, north to the site of the present Tabor Block or where the Brigg's Block then stood, burned to the ground.  All of the doomed buildings were of wood construction and were built close together.  The members of the bucket brigade soon found that the entire business section of the village was doomed and concentrated their work on removing the furniture from the buildings.  The furniture and contents of all of the buildings were moved to the opposite side of the street."

 

Mr. Benedict, who was station agent for the D.&H. Railroad at Afton at that time, telegraphed to Binghamton for city fire apparatus.  Mr. Benedict said that he was obliged to telegraph by the long route of Jefferson Junction as there was no telegraph line straight to Binghamton in those days.

 

The Binghamton Fire Department quickly responded by sending the requested apparatus to the railroad yards.  The D.&H. railroad caused a big delay in transporting the much needed fire apparatus by loading it on a slow-moving stock train, which did much switching at Tunnel.  According to Mr. Benedict the apparatus arrived at Afton so late that it was of no use.  All of the business blocks on the east side of Main Street had been destroyed.  The loss aggregated $75,000 and included 20 Buildings.

 

It is no wonder that this great "fire of 1884" stands out as the most vivid picture of Afton's history in the mind of Mr. Benedict as it was undoubtedly a very exciting fire, as well as a pathetic incident.  [MHD notation:  published 1933]

 



Obituaries (July 27)

Mrs. Mabel J. Davis, widow of Abram Davis, died Friday night of apoplexy at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Melvin Herrick of West Bainbridge, aged 76 years.  Mrs. Davis had been in feeble health for a number of years and had just recovered from an attack of pneumonia which was of such serious nature that her physician thought she would not live through it;  but her convalescence was followed by the shock of apoplexy which closed her life..  Mrs. Davis' husband died fourteen years ago.  Mr. and Mrs. Davis were among the foremost families of West Bainbridge, influential, well-to-do and highly respected.  They were attendants of the Union Valley M.E. church, to which they gave strong support.  Mrs. Davis had been tenderly cared for by her children, of whom there are eight, through all her years of illness.  She had spent considerable time at the homes of two residing in Bainbridge, Frank B. Davis, and Mrs. Frank Lyon.  The remaining children are Marcus, Ebenezer, Menzo and William Davis, Mrs. Herrick and Mrs. Andrus Doolittle.  The funeral was held Monday at 1 o'clock at Mr. Herrick's home, Rev. D.H. Sackett officiating.  There was a large attendance of people.  The gentlemen from Bainbridge, Dr. R.D.L. Evans, Dr. C.W. Spencer, D.A. Gilbert, and Daniel Banner sang selections.  The burial was in the Union Valley cemetery.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 17, 1900]

 

Mrs. Mary G. Bliven, only daughter of Mrs. Tirzah G. Mowry of Elmira, died last Saturday at the Binghamton State hospital where she had been an inmate since last June.  She is survived by her mother and a brother, D.C. Mowry, also of Elmira.  The remains were brought to Bainbridge [Chenango Co.,,  NY] Monday afternoon for burial in St. Peter's burying ground.  The family lived in Bainbridge over fifty-five years ago.  The father died when a young man, the result of being hit by a ball by one of a party playing upon the green.  Mr. Mowry died in a few days.  There was a large funeral, as he was well-thought of by the community.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 31, 1900]

 

Dr. Orville S.. Hill, the aged citizen and veteran dentist, died this morning at 10 o'clock, at his home in this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] after an illness of about a year.  The cause of his death was dropsy induced by inflammation of the liver.  Dr. Hill was born May 3d, 1818 in Greene County, this state.  He was admitted to the practice of dentistry when he was 28 years old, and after practicing in Geneva and Great Bend he came to Bainbridge where he has conducted a successful business for the past fifty years.  The deceased was married to his present wife in 1878, who was Amanda Newton Evans and survives him.  Dr. Hill, as well as being a dentist himself, was a parent of dentists.  His second son, Charles Hill, was practicing in Rochester when he died in 1895.  His oldest son, Byron Hill, had an office in Trumansburg when death removed him in 1899.  Two sons, Homer Hill of Rochester, and John Hill of this village survive him, both of whom are successful dentists, also one daughter, Velma Hill, who is at present a student in dentistry.  The deceased was a respected citizen, for the last half century identified with the growth and advancement of this village.  he will be missed from our midst as he was an extremely genial man, always making friends, who will sincerely regret his death.  The funeral will probably be Friday, although the definite arrangements are at present not made.  [Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 14, 1900]

 

Dwight C. Scott of Bainbridge, attended yesterday the funeral of his brother, Treat M. Scott of Choconut Center at the home of the deceased.  The funeral was held at 1 o'clock and burial was in Green Forest cemetery, Binghamton.  Mr. Scott was about 70 years of age and was a resident of Bainbridge until about 25 years ago.  He was the son of Levi and Mary A. Scott who resided in this village until their death many years since.  The deceased had been married twice, his first wife being Miss Ada E. Watson.  One child of this union, a lovely daughter died in early womanhood.  Mr. Scott is survived by his second wife and the only remaining member of his father's family, Dwight C. Scott.  The death of Mr. Scott was the result of a paralytic shock received over a year ago.  [Bainbridge Republican Feb. 14, 1900]

 

Mrs. Phoebe M. Pattengill, widow of Rev. J.S. Pattengill, a former pastor of the Presbyterian church of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], died at her home in Walton [Delaware Co., NY], Friday, Feb. 2d in her 87th year.  The interment was in the Walton cemetery.  Mrs. Pattengill's early history is interesting.  She was the daughter of Joshua Mosher and Sarah Hoag, and was one of ten children, three of whom are still living; William of Binghamton, Mrs. Soloman Mattison, of Minnesota, and Mrs. C.P. Thurber of New Berlin, N.Y., aged respectively 85, 80 and 79 years.  Her parents were formerly of the town of Nine Partners, Dutchess County, N.Y. They were Quakers, and were married, as were also her grandparents, in the noted old Nine Partners meeting house of the Society of Friends at Millbrook, N.Y., which was built in 1780 and which is still standing; and all are lying at rest in the burying ground adjoining.  Mrs. Pattengill was born in Laurens, Otsego County, April 1, 1813.  She left the Society of Friends and married a Presbyterian clergyman, Rev. J.S. Pattengill, in New Lisbon, Otsego Co., on October 8, 1832, and in so doing was disinherited by her parents for a time.  [Notation:  d. 1900]

Our people were painfully surprised yesterday morning to learn of the death of Everett D Jones, which occurred at his father's residence on Union street, Morrisville [Otsego Co., NY], at 7 a.m.  He was ill only a few days and his death comes like a thunderbolt from a clear sky to his family and friends.  A week ago Wednesday, in company with a friend, he went fishing at Hatch's lake, and in some manner contracted a severe cold which terminated the next day in a mild form of diphtheria.  The attending physician succeeded in staying the malady, when the patient was taken with pulso pneumonia and rapidly sank.  Altho' possessing a rugged constitution, the first stage of his illness reduced his vitality to such an extent that he could not stand the ravages of the latter disease.  Everett was born in Utica in 1872 and was 24 years and 10 months old.  In early childhood he removed with his parents to Morrisville, where he has since lived.  After leaving our Union school, he spent a year at Olivet college, Olivet, Mich.  After leaving college, and for several years, he was engaged as traveling salesman for a Utica wholesale gent's furnishing house, and last summer assisted an engineering corps in constructing a system of water works in Afton.  He was of a cheerful disposition and his active and robust frame with his love for athletic sports made him popular with his associates.  he was one of the foremost local baseball players, and until within a week or two was a member of the Norwich team.  The funeral will take place Friday afternoon, Sept 4, at 1 o'clock from the residence.  As Rev. Mr. Powell, pastor of the Baptist church is absent on his vacation, the services will be conducted by the Rev. DeWitt S. Hooker of the M.E. church--Madison County Leader.  While Mr. Jones was employed on water works here, he made many friends in Afton [Chenango Co., NY] who will be pained to hear of his sudden death.

Mrs. Sarah A. Woodmansee wife of William Woodmansee of Masonville [Delaware Co., NY], died last Friday at the age of 57 years.  Thursday afternoon at 3 o'clock she suffered a shock dying Friday at 4 a.m.  The cause by cerebral apoplexy.  Mrs. Woodmansee was born in Masonville and has spent nearly all her life there.  She was a daughter of Stephen Whitman.  A husband and two daughters Mrs. Amon Case of Bainbridge and Mrs. Geo. Avery of Searles Hill, survive her, also seven brothers and sisters, H.W. Whitman, Bainbridge, Rufus Whitman and Mrs. Arnold Dexter, Holmesville, Mrs. Porter Broad, North Sanford, Mrs. :Peter Tiffany, China, Mrs. Peter Couse, Barbourville, Mr. John Whitman Masonville. The funeral was held Sunday at 11 a.m. at her late home, Rev. J. Brundle of Masonville officiating with interment in the new cemetery there. 

Marriages (July 27)

25th Anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Jas. L. Seaman of Union Valley Occurred Jan. 13.

 



The amount of snow on the ground and the weather of Jan. 13, 1875 was very similar to that of last Saturday.  But inside the house I have in mind, there was a difference.  That day, 25 years ago, there had been a quiet home wedding when Jas. L. Seaman and Mrs. Tabitha Bush Hazen were made man and wife.  This day they two were alone, save for the young man who helps them.  No one had remembered that this was their 25th wedding anniversary, they thought.  About 10 o'clock a sleigh-load of people drove up to the door of the house above, and helped aboard that family, completing an even dozen of jolly folks. 

 

"I do believe they are coming here, they are headed this way!" exclaimed the bride of a quarter of a century ago.  But when the load halted at her door and someone called out, "Come, get your things on and take a ride with us.  Just room for two more!"  Her hope was crushed.  "We can't go.  Mr. Seaman is not able to get out of door at all!  Where are you going?"  "Oh, come on.  It will do you both good to go sleighing with such a crowd as this.  Come on!"  cried the load.  "Well, seeing you can't go with us guess we will stay with you.  Many happy returns of your wedding day, Mr. and Mrs. Seaman," shouted the spokesman.  The load piled out and the Babel of many tongues began.

 

Suffice to say that the surprise planned by their son and daughter was complete in every detail. The long table was soon loaded with the good things brought by the visitors, and the bridal party surrounded by their happy friends sat down to enjoy themselves and silence reigned for a short time.  After the last table full were satisfied, Mr. L.M. Lathrop made a short speech and presented several nice gifts to Mr. and Mrs. Seaman.  Then there were songs, duets and choruses, the closing one being that oft repeated prayer, "God be with you till we meet again."  Those present will long think of he day as one of the pleasantest of the remembrances they cherish.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 17, 1900]

Marriages (July 26)

Fate, or what is quite as inexorable, stringent marriage laws, seem determined to prevent, or at least delay, the marriage of a loving young couple.  The man is Delbert A. Wakefield, and the woman, Emily B. Davis.  They tried to get married in Binghamton, but the fact that on Oct. 2d, 1894, he was divorced in Towanda, this state [PA], and that Pennsylvania divorces are not recognized in New York state, made their effort futile.  Upon encountering this impediment they were not at all discouraged, but jumping aboard a train, came to this city expecting to have easy sailing.  But they had not studied the Pennsylvania Laws, either, and to their great chagrin were refused a license because the girl was only nineteen years of age.  Then they went out of the office, headed towards the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western station, intent on trying their luck in New Jersey, where they were informed the only qualifications for marriage are the desire and the possession of the wherewithal to fee the nuptial knot-tier.--Scranton Tribune.  It will be seen by the following that the marriage of this unlucky but plucky couple was performed in Plymouth, Pa., and that joy again reigns supreme:  Delbert A. Wakefield and Miss Emily C. Davis, of North Sanford [Broome Co., NY], left Afton Thursday morning, Nov. 12, via Carbondale to Plymouth, Pa., where they were united in marriage by Rev. O.L. Severson in the Methodist church at 8 o'clock.  The bride was neatly attired in blue, trimmed with velvet, and carried a bouquet of carnations.  They went as far as Wyoming that evening, where a large number of guests were in waiting to receive them.  As they entered the hall, Baldwin's orchestra played Mendelshon's wedding march, after which refreshments were served to 40 guests.  They remained as guests of their cousin for a few days, then went to Wilkes-Barre, Pittston, Scranton, Hyde Park and Pleasant Valley, thence to LeRaysville to visit the groom's parents, after which they will return to their home.  The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. T.L. Wakefield, of LeRaysville, and the bride is one of North Sanford's most esteemed young ladies.  She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Davis of North Sanford. 

 

A quiet home wedding occurred in Bennettsville [Chenango Co., NY] this afternoon at 2 o'clock at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Teed.  Their daughter, Miss Laura, was united in marriage to Mr. Ralph Corbin, son of D.W. Corbin, also of that place.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. John Carr of Sidney Center.  Only the relatives and a few friends were present.  The bride's home was prettily trimmed for the occasion.  Miss Lena Carrington of Afton was bridesmaid and Julien Corbin, a cousin of the groom, acted as best man.  The wedding party was given an elaborate dinner, after which the bride and groom left for a week's visit in New York city.

 

Mr. Walter H. Carr of Afton [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss S. Jennie Wilson, of Camptown, were united in marriage at the home of the bride's parents, Tuesday, May 26th, by Rev. I.B. Wilson.  The wedding ceremony was performed in the presence of the immediate relatives of the bride alone.  Miss Wilson, who was a former teacher in the Afton academy for several years, is an accomplished and winsome young lady and her many friends in this place will rejoice that she is to make Afton her future home.  Mr. Carr is among the most popular young men of our town and is employed by the D.&H. company as night operator at Nineveh Junction.  The news of the marriage was a surprise ot everyone.  The [Afton[ Enterprise joins with a large circle of friends in wishing them a bright and happy journey through life.

 

 

Miscellaneous - Plane Wreck in Afton, 1926

Two Slightly Hurt When Plane Stalls

Afton, Chenango Co., NY, 1926

 

Aviator Richard "Dick" Bennett's new five-passenger Hess Bluebird is wreckage now.  The plane, purchased by the Binghamton flier in Detroit recently came to the end of a short career in Afton yesterday afternoon.  Two passengers were slightly injured, the aviator escaping unhurt as the plane hit first a fence then shattered itself against a building.  Aviator Bennett was attempting a takeoff from the oval within the race track at the time, his engine going dead just as the plane was about to leave the ground.

 

Paul Michals and Marie Gunther of Bainbridge, the passengers, were attended by a physician following the accident.  The girl suffered slight lacerations to the forehead and a minor leg injury.  Michaels received only a slight leg injury.  "I still think I would like a ride and will go up with you some other time," Aviator Bennett declared Miss Gunter told him, follow the mishap.  "There are but few girls, who would be willing to take a second chance at flying after figuring in one crash." the aviator declared in commenting on her gameness. 

 

The plane, which was reduced to wreckage, has been admired by many residents of the city since its arrival in Binghamton.  It was a five-passenger machine and presented a picture as it soared over the city.

 

The Binghamton aviator has encountered considerable difficulty since opening his air field in Binghamton.  Shortly after he had organized his flying machines at Conklin Field, a heavy windstorm shattered two parked machines.  Early this year Bennett was slightly injured in a fall, in which another machine was wrecked and the Hess Bluebird was purchased to take its place.  No explanation of what caused the ship's engine to stall at Afton was given.



Obituaries (July 26)

Charles Dix of West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] met his fate near Rockdale [Guilford, Chenango Co., NY], about ten miles from Bainbridge on Thursday morning last.  The particulars of the sad affair, a portion of which is furnished us by our Rockdale correspondent is as follows:  Mr. Dix left Bainbridge Wednesday evening, on train No. 6, which arrived at Rockdale at nine o'clock about an hour behind schedule time.  He went to the hotel, where they tried to get him to remain during the night, but despite all efforts of the proprietor and others he left later in the evening for his lumber camp, two miles distant.  The night was a bitter one and the wind was blowing fiercely  His son, Charles, was at the camp and expected his father during the night, but he failed to put in an appearance.  In the morning the son started for Rockdale and had not gone far before he discovered tracks in the snow,, which he followed and found his father about forty rods from the camp, still alive but unconscious, and before help could be summoned he expired.  Tracks showed that he had stopped behind trees and in an open shed to protect himself from the gale.  Mr. Dix had lived at West Bainbridge and vicinity a number of years, being engaged in farming somewhat but his business mostly was connected with lumbering.  He was a kind and obliging man.  He leaves a wife and five children.  His remains were brought here Thursday, and in charge of Undertaker Hastings, were taken to his home.  The funeral service was held Sunday at the West Bainbridge Baptist Church at one o'clock in the afternoon, Rev. J.S. Crompton officiating  Interment in the cemetery at that place.  [Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 26, 1903]

 

Almira E. Porter, aged 73, who was living with her brother Norman Porter, in Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], was found dead in the kitchen Saturday morning.  She was lying on a lounge in the kitchen with insufficient clothing over her, the fire was out, and it is supposed that she got up to rekindle it.  She probably became chilled and fell on the floor and as no one heard her, died of exposure.  When her brother arose in the morning he found her lying dead on the floor.  Coroner, Dr. Hayes of Afton, was called, who decided the death of Miss Porter was the result of the extreme cold night.  Her brother states that she was sitting by the stove apparently comfortable when he went to bed.  She was very feeble and badly crippled from rheumatism and it is probable fell unconscious from a shock and the cold prevented her from surviving  The funeral was held on Monday at the Presbyterian church at twelve o'clock with Rev. Mr. Cody officiating.  Her burial was in Coventry Cemetery.  [Bainbridge Reublican Feb. 26, 1903]

 

Frank L. Wilkins died at the home of his brother,, George Wilkins, on Saturday last, March 14, at ten o'clock, p.m. of pulmonary tuberculosis, aged thirty-two years and twenty-five days.  Mr. Wilkins was formerly a resident of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], having lived here the greater portion of his life previous to going to Cambridge, Ohio, about five years ago, where he was engaged in the insurance business.  His health becoming impaired, he was obliged to relinquish his duties and two months ago accompanied by his wife, whom he married at Cambridge, he returned to Bainbridge, and has since gradually failed, until the end came, as stated above.  The funeral was held at the M.E. Church on Tuesday at 2:30 p.m., Rev. J.S. Crompton, officiating and his remains laid to rest in Green Lawn cemetery [Bainbridge, NY]. Besides his wife he is survived by his mother, Mrs. Lydia Wilkins, one sister, Mrs. Robert Banner, and two brothers, George Wilkins, of this place, and Bert Wilkins of Clearfield, Pa.  [Bainbridge Republican, Mar. 19, 1903]

 

The remains of Pliny K. Scofield, who had been a resident of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] for many years until twelve months ago when he went to Earlville to reside, were brought to this village last Friday afternoon and conveyed to Bennettsville for burial.  The funeral party were met at the station by Bainbridge friends of Mr. Scofield who attended the services at the grave which were conducted by Rev Charles D. Reed, former pastor of the deceased.  Mr. Scofield was obliged to give up business in Bainbridge because of failing health and upon going to Earlville he grew no better.  His ailment was heart trouble with some complications, and having experienced some benefit as he thought, a while ago from hospital treatment, he was induced to try it again and was conveyed to St. Joseph's hospital, Syracuse, one week before his death  he died there suddenly on Wednesday morning of last week.  Mr. Scofield was born near Bennettsville, in the town of Bainbridge, sixty-four years ago.  His parents moved later to Masonville where they began the management of a hotel, followed by removals to other places engaging in the same business.  The Central house in Bainbridge was one of their locations.  This was many years ago and when that hotel, which was the only one in the village, was called a tavern and was the stopping place for stages and was considered a place of note in this section as being a rendezvous for cattle buyers.  Mr. Scofield's father was largely interested in the purchase of cattle for a good portion of his life and became well-to-do therefrom.  He was celebrated for the handsome droves he collected and which he had bought with critical knowledge.  And so the son, Pliny, followed the calling to some extent, but after a time opened a tin and hardware store in Masonville.  Mr. Scofield came to Bainbridge about the year 1871, and conducted a flour and feed store which business he closed up and took a position as foreman in tin work and plumbing connected with the hardware store of the late Charles S. Hynds.  After Mr. Hynds' death he opened a tin business in the Clark block and then moved to the premises now occupied by the C.C. Hovey Supply Co.  Mr. Scofield's health became so impaired that he sold his business to Jesse Whitman a short time before going to Earlville to live.  Mr. Scofield was a social genial man, one of the most cheery of men to meet.  He was a fine musician, paying upon several instruments, the violin being his favorite.  He, with his three brothers, S. Augustus, George W., and Phineas B., formed a quartette that for years was famous over a large territory for their music.  Mr. Scofield was a member of the Baptist church in Bainbridge and was a great aid with his fine musical talent.  Mr. Scofield had been married twice.  His first wife was Clarissa, daughter of Arnold Bennett, deceased of Bennettsville.  His second wife, who died a few years ago, was Mrs. Martha Loomis, mother of Mrs. Fay Sawdy of Earlville and Mrs. Adelbert Rice, of Hamilton.  The deceased is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Eugenia Johnson, and one granddaughter, Mrs. Henry Fields, the former of Herkimer, and the latter of East Syracuse.  [Bainbridge Republican, Mar. 19, 1903]

 

Menzo Odell a well-known stock dealer of this village, died very suddenly at his home on Freiot avenue [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], last Saturday night about ten o'clock, of heart trouble.  On the day previous he went to Binghamton on business, returning Saturday night on train six at 7:21.  He was seen about town during the evening, apparently as well as ever.  He returned to his home shortly before ten o'clock.  The family had retired for the night.  He had been in the house but a few minutes when his daughter heard a noise down stairs.  Mistrusting something wrong she awakened her brother and went to the kitchen, where the father was found dead. He had, evidently, been reading a newspaper and had fallen from his chair to the floor.  The physician who was summoned stated that the man was dead when he fell.  His sudden demise was a shock to the community and was received with regret, for he was a good man at heart, and had many friends.  His funeral was held at the house Tuesday morning at half-past ten o'clock, Rev. J.S. Crompton officiating, and his remains were taken to Gilbertsville [Otsego Co.,, NY], in charge of Undertaker Hastings, and buried in the Shaw cemetery.  The deceased is survived by an invalid wife, two sons, Cory of Rockdale, and Charles, of Schenectady and one daughter, Miss Lillian, who resides at home.  [Bainbridge Republican, Mar. 19, 1903]

Miss Susan Post, a former resident of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], died at the home of Wm. H. Kirby in the town of Bainbridge, on Tuesday, aged 84 years.  The funeral will be held from her late residence today at 1 o'clock.  Funeral Director Emens has charge of the remains, which will be interred in the cemetery at Bennettsville.  [Note:  d. 1896]

Mrs. Willis Aylsworth died at her home in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] yesterday morning of quick consumption, aged 46 years.  Deceased formerly resided in Afton but moved to Bainbridge several years ago.  The funeral will be held from her late home Friday morning, Rev. B.B. Carruth officiating.  She leaves a husband and three daughters.  [Note:  d. 1896]

Duncan Parker died at his home at North Afton [Chenango Co., NY] early Sunday morning, aged about 65 years.  Mr. Parker has been in poor health for the past few months.  Sunday, Drs. Evans and Copley performed an autopsy and found a cancer on the liver, which caused his death.  The funeral was held Tuesday and the remains taken to Coventry for burial.  Mr. Parker was widely known in connection with the celebrated North Afton horning affair.  [Note:  d. 1896]

After an illness of several weeks of pneumonia, Melvin C. Lyon died at his home in the town of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY] Tuesday, aged 32 years.  Deceased was a young man honored and respected by many friends.  He leaves a wife and two small children.  He was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Lyon of Afton, and brother of George and Frank Lyon and Miss Carrie Lyon.  The funeral was held from his late home, Wednesday, and the remains laid to rest in the No. Afton cemetery, Rev. J.L. Thomas officiating.  Funeral Director Emens had charge of the arrangements.  The sympathy of the community goes out to the afflicted family.  [Note:  d. 1896]

Wednesday noon Theodore Clark died of pneumonia in the house on Pleasant street belonging to S.M. Young, after an illness of about one week. The deceased removed to Sidney from Bainbridge some months ago.  They were in extremely destitute circumstances, and a few days ago application was made to the town authorities for their support.  The neighbors provided most generously for the family during the illness of the deceased, furnishing both food and clothing together with bedding and other necessities.  As the family had not lived in Sidney long enough to gain a residence, Bainbridge has been called upon to look after the matter.  After the interment, the authorities of that town will remove the surviving members of the family to the Chenango county home--Sidney Advocate.  Theodore Clark, referred to above is better known in Afton as "Dutch" Clark. 

Miscellaneous - Erastus Whiting Loses Arm in Accident, 1872

Horrible Accident

Erastus Whiting Loses Arm

Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 24, 1872

 

A horrible accident occurred at Guilford Center last Tuesday evening by the means of which Erastus Whiting, 19 years of age, loses his right arm.  After the canvass of the votes, so jubilant were the members of the so-termed "license ticket" in electing their candidate for supervisor, that the old cannon--an unsafe institution for a number of years past--was brought out, to speak in thunder tones of the joy of the aforesaid.  The old cannon was placed in position and filled to the muzzle.  At the touch of the match it exploded, some of the pieces striking young Whiting, lacerating his arm to such an extent that amputation was necessary, Others were hurt, though not seriously.

Compiler note:  Erastus Whiting was a resident of Guilford Center, Chenango Co., NY and son of Edwin and Emaline Whiting.  He married Emma Payne, daughter of William and Lucy (Ferris) Payne,   He died Dec. 12, 1911 and was buried in Guilford Center Cemetery.  

Marriages (July 25)

Wilkins Settlement [Chenango Co., NY]:  One of the most pleasant and enjoyable occasions which it has been our good fortune to attend, occurred at the pleasant home of Wallace A. Wilkins as a surprise to him on Tuesday, February 17, commemorative of his sixtieth birthday and also of his marriage with Miss Jennette Handy thirty-four years ago.  Although the weather was cold and disagreeable outside, the inside was rendered warm and cheery by the presence of more than forty friends and neighbors who had assembled.  Rev. and Mrs. McIntyre of Coventryville, braved the cold and bad going to be present.  The day was spent socially.  A very excellent letter and piece of poetry written in honor of the occasion by Mrs. Ann Cummings of Detroit, a sister of Mr. Wilkins, was read by Mrs. B.W. Parsons as was also one befitting the occasion from Mrs. S. Burr Wilkins of Rockford, Ill.  Mrs. Addie Hodge read a fine production from the able pen of Mrs. Augusta Williams; another sister living in Quasqueton, Iowa, and Horace Shephardson favored the company with a very able letter written by S. Burr Wilkins of Rockford, Ill.  A parody on the "Old Oaken Bucket", written by Mrs. Jeffery, daughter of Mrs. Cummings, was sung by Mr. and Mrs. H.H. Smith, with Miss Lina Smith at the organ.  Mrs. Jeffery in her childhood days occasionally visited with her parents at the home of her uncle here and in a childlike way would substitute the "Old Oaken Wash-Bench,"  still in use in the family and the subject of this parody, for a table, and would gather the cat and the dog, Jim, around the festive board there to partake of the sumptuous repast which she furnished.  At the proper time Mr. Webb was called upon and with a few well chosen words in behalf of the company he presented Mr. Wilkins with a fine rocker, and Mrs. Wilkins with a purse of money as tokens of respect and esteem, which was responded to by Mr. Wilkins.  Rev. Mr. McIntyre also made some very suitable remarks.  They were also the recipients of several boxes of hose from S. Burr Wilkins of Rockford, Ill.  A bounteous dinner was enjoyed by all present.  The violin, guitar and organ served to make musical the occasion and at a seasonable hour the happy party returned to their several abodes feeling well paid for their visit and wishing Mr. and Mrs. Wilkins many happy returns of the day.  [Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 26, 1903]

Tuesday morning at a pretty pastel wedding in the Methodist church Carol Louise Nichols, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leo Nichols became the wife of Raymond H. Thielking of Amsterdam.  Rev. George Underwood was the officiating pastor with Rev. Robert Clark, uncle of the bride assisting.  Mrs. Philip Ham, of Schenectady, sister of the bride was matron of honor, Miss Leila Thielking, of Amsterdam, sister of the groom, was bridesmaid and Miss Emily Nichols, young sister of the bride was junior bridesmaid.  Harold Thielking, brother of the groom acted as best man and Kermit Nichols and Philip Ham were the ushers.  The bride was given away by her father.  The single ring service and the Methodist ritual was used.  Mrs. A..C. Wilcox at the organ rendered several selections at the beginning of the ceremony and played Lohengrin's Wedding March for the bridal processional and Mendelssohn's Wedding March for the recessional.  The church was attractively decorated with garden flowers of pastel shades.  The bride's gown was of white lace, redingote style over white taffeta.  To a white tulle halo cap was fastened a finger tip veil of the same material.  She carried white roses and sweet peas.  The matron  of honor and the bridesmaids wore pastel shades of rose, pink and blue lace with picture hats trimmed with the color of the gowns.  They carried matching bouquets of sweet peas and achillea.  The bride's mother, Mrs. Nichols, wore a white flowered navy print with white accessories.  The groom, best man and ushers wore boutonnieres of white roses.  After the ceremony a buffet luncheon was served at the Nichols home to forty out-of-town guests and relatives.  The rooms were decorated with garden flowers.  Mr. and Mrs. Thielking left in the afternoon for New York where they sailed Wednesday on the "Monarch of Bermuda" for Bermuda.  Mrs. Thielking's going away costume was of blue sheer with white accessories.  They will be home to friends after August 14 in their new apartment at 48 Arnold avenue, Amsterdam.  Mr. Thielking is a graduate of Union College and is now employed as chemist for the Schenectady Varnish Company.  He is a Royal Arch Mason.  Mrs. Thielking is a graduate of Oneonta Normal and State Teacher's College.  She has taught for three years in the Bainbridge Central School and has been active in many local social and church organizations..... [LMD notation:  1937]

A pretty little home wedding took place Monday afternoon at the home of the bride on Delaware Street when Miss Doris Mae Drake was united in marriage to Mr. Lawrence Erford Eggleston of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].  The ring ceremony was performed by Rev. F.W. Connell in the presence of the immediate relatives.  The couple were attended by Mr. and Mrs. Clayton C. Wakemen of Bainbridge.  The wedding cake also served as a birthday cake for the groom upon the occasion of his twenty-first birthday.  The newly married couple will make their home in Sidney [Delaware Co., NY]  [MHD notation:  Mar 31, 1936]

 

Obituaries (July 25)

We are informed that John Carrick, of the Reed & Carnrick Co., died in Jersey City a few days since.  There was a branch of their business in this place [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] for a number of years which did a large business giving employment to 100 people.  Later the proprietors established their main plant in Jersey City, and considering the Bainbridge factory too remote from their center, had ceased to use it for manufacturing purposes for some time only as convenience permitted.  The building has lately been sold to the Bainbridge Creamery Co.  The building to the Jersey City plant covers one square block and 500 people are employed.  By the death of Mr. John Carnrick the ranks of the pioneer drug trade in the United States have lost a scientific man and their former leader.  He was born in 1837 and at the age of twenty-four he took up the study of pharmacy in Jersey City, and was among the first to bring out proprietary medicines together with the manufacturing of drugs for the physicians.  [Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 12, 1903]

 

Presson R. Peck died suddenly of heart failure at Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], on Jan. 30.  About three weeks before his death he sustained a fracture of the leg while working in the woods with his steam saw mill.  Although suffering considerable pain the break was mending well and he was intending to return to his home the day following when, on Friday morning, the heart suddenly failed and he expired in a few moments.  The funeral was held from his late residence Monday, Feb. 2.  The services were conducted by Rev. Arthur Spaulding and attended by a large number of friends and relatives.  Mr. Peck was a resident of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], settling there in 1859 and was widely known in this vicinity.  He served three years in the Civil War in the 114th regiment.  In the battle of Port Hudson he was shot in the chest, the ball penetrating one of his lungs.  He was left on the field for dead but was afterward sought out by some of his comrades and carried to the hospital.  He never fully recovered from the effects of this wound for it left his lungs weak; but he did not shrink from trying to do a strong man's work, taking his portable saw mill into the woods and subjecting himself to the hardships of a woodman's life even in the rigorous winter weather.  In politics he was a Republican.  He served his town as supervisor and justice of the peace and was always interested in civil affairs, town, state and national.  His public service was signally free from the questionable practice thought by public men to be necessary and which have brought politics into disrespect.  He was a man of more than ordinary intelligence.  He had a quick, ready mind which was not long in piercing the husks of a question and getting at the kernel of truth.  He was quick at repartee and his sense of humor was keen and he had no mind to dwell on his own misfortune or upon the gloomy side of life.  All this made him a most agreeable and cheery friend and companion.  His character was unimpeachable.  In all his relations with men he maintained that high tone which proclaimed that here was a man that could not be used for unworthy or base ends.  He could not stoop to meaness.  He was lenient with others, far too lenient for his own good, but he was rigorous in his exactions upon himself, demanding of himself the ethics of honesty and integrity.  His neighbors called him a good man and this is the highest encomium that can be passed upon one's character, for it is the judgment of one of the severest critics.  The entire community feels its loss in the death of Mr. Peck, and, filled with a deep sense of its own loss, extends its tenderest sympathy to the home circle which has been so suddenly bereft of husband and brother.  [Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 12, 1903]

 

Lottie Gilbert was born in the town of Sidney, Delaware county, N.Y., Jan. 14, 1881, and died at her home in Butternuts, Otsego Co.,, Feb. 7, 1903.  In her early life her parental home was broken up, but by her mother's efforts the four children were kept together.  At the age of nineteen years she gave her heart to God and united with the Congregational church at Guilford Center.  Two years ago she was united in marriage to James Oscar Shapley of Oxford, who was a member of the same church.  Their happiness was destined to be of short duration.  Within five months of their marriage he was carried away by that dreaded disease consumption.  She did all that a willing and a loving heart could do for him but it was unavailing.  Shortly after his death she made her home with her mother and brothers in Butternuts.  But it was soon evident that she was a victim of the same disease that carried her husband away.  A little time before the summons came she looked up to her friends and said, "Good bye all, it is all for the best."  She was perfectly resigned to her death.  She was possessed with a very sweet disposition and when in health her supreme thoughts were for the happiness of others.  She is survived by her mother, Mrs. Jennie Gilbert and two brothers, Irving and Raymond, of Butternuts, and one sister, Mrs. F.L. Nicholson of Guilford.  The funeral was held from her late home Monday, Feb. 9, at 9:30 a.m., Rev. L.A. Pickett of Mt. Upton, officiating.  Burial was made by the side of her husband in the Riverview cemetery at Oxford [Chenango Co.,, NY].  [Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 19, 1903]

 

Died, in San Francisco, Cal., Feb. 5, Mrs. Martha E. Kentfield, aged sixty-five years.  Martha M. Everest, daughter of Rev. George T. Everest, was born in Peru, Clinton county, N.Y., May 29, 1837.  She was married Nov. 22, 1854, in Masonville, N.Y., to Wm. R. Kentfield, who died in Florence, Arizona, in 1902.  The family resided in Masonville until 1885, when they moved to Balesfield, Cal.  She is survived by three children, George H. Kentfield, of Monroe, Ill., Mrs. Stella Colton, of Florence, Arizona, Mrs. Lottie Peck, of San Francisco, Cal., her brother, George A. Everest of Duluth, Minn., three sisters, Mrs. Sarah Woodward, of Northwood, Iowa, Mrs. Mary Hannah and Mrs. Belle Clark, of Mt. Vernon, Washington.  [Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 19, 1903]

 

Lorin St. John met his death Wednesday night of last week, by being drowned in the Unadilla river at Pine Grove about one and one half miles north of Rockdale [Guilford, Chenango Co., NY].  The particulars are as follows:  He had been helping John Baird, about two and one-half miles north of Rockdale on the east side of the river, on his farm this winter.  About 5:45 p.m., he left to go to a neighbor's, Mrs. George Miller's to get him to go to Mr. Baird's to prescribe for a sick cow; but a few minutes had elapsed when the fearful blizzard of that night began and Mr. Baird thought it nothing strange that he did not return owing to the severity of the storm.  They sat up all night waiting for him and when morning dawned and he had not appeared, immediate search was made and not until Friday about eleven a.m., did they find the least trace of him and then only a few foot tracks and cane tracks were discovered near the river banks.  They began the cutting of ice on the river which had frozen during Wednesday and Thursday night to about four inches; hooks to drag the river with were then procured and not until Saturday noon were their labors rewarded by finding his dead body as above stated.  Mr. St. John has been a life-long resident in this immediate vicinity, a prosperous and much respected farmer.  His eyesight has been poor for several years and it is thought that he was bewildered, lost his way in the storm and met his fate as before stated.  His age was seventy-four years.  He leaves one daughter, Mrs. Samuel Gibson, and two sisters to mourn his loss.  The funeral occurred Tuesday at 12 p.m., at the residence of his daughter with interment in the Mt. Upton cemetery where about a year ago his wife was buried.  [Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 26, 1903]

Martin William Seeley, a highly esteemed resident of Sidney [Delaware Co., NY] for the past 37 years, passed away at 4:30 Saturday afternoon at  his home on Pleasant street, following several weeks of illness.  Mr. Seeley was born at Coventry [Chenango Co., NY] on June 17, 1858, the son of William and Mary E. (Stork) Seeley.  His death occurred two days before his 82nd birthday.  He was twice married.  On April 12, 1882, he married Miss Isabell Eells of Coventry, who died in 1920.  December 6, 1922, he married Mrs. Ellen A. King of Bainbridge, who died Jan. 10, 1931.  He was a cabinet maker by trade, and during his later years he conducted a repair shop at his home.  For the past 37 years Mr. Seeley has been a member of the First Congregational church of Sidney, where his funeral was held Tuesday afternoon, with Rev. J.W. Davies, assisted by Rev. G.A. Parmelee of the Baptist church, officiating.  burial was made in Prospect Hill cemetery [Sidney, NY].  Three sons-in-law acted as pall bearers.  The survivors are three brothers, Charles Seeley, Guilford; Ray Seeley, Oxford; Ernest Seeley, Johnson City; three sons, Linn Seeley, Endicott; June Seeley, Unadilla and Rev. Geo. Martin Seeley, Sidney; eight daughters, Miss Mary Seeley, Miss Angie Seeley, Mrs. Earl Rutenber, Mrs. Lynn Freiberger and Mrs. Ernest Rutenber, of Sidney; Miss Jennie Seeley, West Englewood N.J.; Mrs. Glenn Tripp, Morrisville Station and Mrs. Edward Cochran, Binghamton.  Eleven grandchildren also survive.  [published June 20, 1940]

Afton [Chenango Co., NY]:  The funeral of Frederick Gibson, age 26 years, whose sudden death early Wednesday morning at the Binghamton City Hospital, following an attack of pneumonia, will be held at the home of his aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Bradshaw, on East Main Street, in this place, at 2 o'clock Friday afternoon.  Rev. Clifford E. Webb, pastor of the Presbyterian Church of this place, will officiate.  Burial will be in Bennettsville Cemetery [Chenango Co., NY].  He had been ill only a few days.  Mr. Gibson was residing at 9 Ashbury Court in Binghamton at the time that he was taken ill.  The deceased was born in Bennettsville [Chenango Co., NY] March 31, 1906.  He was the son of Charles Gibson and Fannie Bradshaw.  He spent most of his early life in the village of Afton.  The late Mr.. Gibson was a graduate of the Afton High School.  He attended Perkins Institute at Watertown,, Mass.  He was a junior engineer with the New York State Highway Department.  The deceased is survived by an aunt and uncle.  Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Bradshaw and another uncle, Claude Bradshaw, all of Afton, and by an aunt, Mrs. Clara Bradshaw of Binghamton.  Fellow students of the Afton High School will be the pallbearers at the funeral.  [MHD notation:  d. 1932] 

Mrs. Mary J. Briggs, 85 years old, died at 3 o'clock Tuesday morning at the home of her daughter, Mrs. M.B. Shelton, 135 Laurel Avenue.  She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Shelton and Mrs. Flora E. Collins of Syracuse; a son, Henry P. Briggs of Afton; a brother James R. Thompson of Deposit and two grandchildren, Ralph Briggs and Keith Shelton of this city.  The funeral will be held at 1 o'clock Thursday afternoon at the Centenary M. E. Church.  Burial will be in Afton.  Arrangements by Roberts & Kelley.  [Compiler note:  Buried Glenwood Cemetery, Afton, NY, inscription "Mary J. Briggs / 1844 - 1929"]



 

Obituaries (July 24)

In Sidney, N.Y. [Delaware Co.]:  July 10th, Mrs. Emily C. Wheat, wife of A.G. Wheat and daughter of Stillman and Betsy Davis, aged 26 years.  She was converted at the age of 20 and soon after united with the Baptist Church in Masonville, the home of her childhood.  Her sickness was short--her sufferings severe.  In 24 hours from the time she was taken, her ransomed spirit winged its way to the God who gave it.

There is a pang for those that live,

When all they love too early die,

Nor can the heart refuse to give

What nature bids it not deny.

 

In the death of our friend, her husband and parents have sustained a great loss.  A large circle of friends and acquaintances gathered July 11th to pay the last tribute of respect to all that was left of one so amiable and exemplary in all her was.  The funeral exercises were held in the Baptist house at Sidney Center, before a crowded audience that deeply felt their loss.  The services were conducted by the Pastor of that Church, and Rev. N. Ripley of Masonville, and were of a deeply interesting nature, and well calculated,, to impress upon the minds of the audience, the importance of being prepared to die.



Sister, rest from sin and sorrow,

Death is o'er and life is won,

On thy slumber dawns no morrow

Rest; thine earthly race is run.

{Bainbridge Republican, July 15, 1871]

 

At his late residence on the West hill, Monday evening, September 7, 1896 Daniel J. Mosher departed this life, at the age of fifty-seven years.  Dr. Mosher was born in Laurens, September 8, 1839, and was a nephew of the late Dr. H.K. Bellows, of Norwich.  During the early years of his professional life he was an assistant surgeon in the United States navy.  Later he removed to Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] and for many years practiced his profession in this place.  Some years ago failing health caused him to retire from active practice, since which time he has resided with his family at their present residence.  June 11, 1872 he married Miss Harriet Randall, of Cortland, N.Y., who survives him, together with his father, William Mosher, and his sister, Mrs. Edward Conklin both of Binghamton, N.Y.  Funeral services were held on Thursday, Rev. Henry D. Stebbins, officiating.  Burial in Mount Hope cemetery [Norwich, NY]

 

A pall was cast over our village, when word was received, last Friday morning, of the sudden death of Oria R. Baker, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. D.J. Baker, of this place, who died at her home after a brief illness, in the twenty-third year of her age.  Miss Baker was born in Sanford, N.Y., removing to this place with her parents about twelve years ago.  She was for some time a student at Bainbridge Academy, and was a young lady of marked ability and much beloved.  She will be sorely missed among us, especially in her home where she was very dearly loved and was helpful to her father in his extensive business.  She leaves, besides her father and mother, one sister and one brother, with a large circle of friends and relatives to mourn their loss.  The esteem in which she was held was shown by the large attendance at her funeral, which was held from the home, Sunday afternoon, at 1 o'clock.  The services were conducted by her pastor, Rev. T.F. Hall.  The floral tributes were very beautiful. The interment took place at Green Lawn cemetery [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].  [Notation:  d. 1894]. 

 

We find in the New York Herald of February 6, the following death notice:  "HARRIS-At Hot Springs, Ark., Monday, Feb. 2, R. Duncan Harris, in the 55th year of his age."  R. Duncan Harris was a resident of New York city and in 1892 was the founder of the Swedish Cream and Butter Separator factory located on East Main street, Bainbridge [Chenango Co.,, NY].  It was finally abandoned in 1895, at a loss to all concerned.  The buildings are now used by the Sugar of Milk Company.  [Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 12, 1903]

 

Peter M. Packard, a former prominent resident of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] died Tuesday, Feb. 10, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. A.B. Strang, in Cowanesque, Pa., aged eighty-three years.  Mr. Packard was the proprietor of all the stage routes in this section for many years and up to the time of the completion of the railroad service between Albany and Binghamton.  He was also a hotel keeper and with his esteemed wife served the public in a very satisfactory manner.  When he left Bainbridge he resumed hotel keeping at Spring Mills, N.Y.  Later he removed to Oxford where Mrs. Packard died in 1895.  Mr. Packard is remembered by many in Bainbridge and was esteemed for his liberality, kindness of heart and honorable life.  He was a plain man, unassuming in manner, but his dry quaint humor made him an enjoyable companion.  He is survived by four children:  two daughters and two sons, Joseph E. of Oxford, and Peter Packard of Elmira.  The remains were brought to Bainbridge on the 11:02 train this morning and interred in the Episcopal cemetery.  They were accompanied by all the children of the deceased.  Rev. Mr. Broughton, rector of St. Paul's church, Oxford, officiated.  [Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 12, 1903]

 

Lester Chase, aged eighty-four years, the oldest lawyer in the country but one, died February 4, at his home in Greene [Chenango Co.,, NY] after a long illness.  He had practiced law in Greene over fifty years, and was honorable, highly esteemed and ever courteous and genial.  He is survived by his wife, one son, L. Elwyn Chase, a lawyer in Greene, and a daughter in Wisconsin.  [Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 12,, 1903]

 

Jerome B. Sands died at  his home in this town Tuesday afternoon after an illness of three weeks from heart trouble.  The funeral will be held Friday at 12 o'clock noon, at his late residence and conducted by Rev. Mr. Broughton of Oxford.  Mr. Sands was of the advanced age of 82.  He had been a resident of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] since 1885, coming here from Franklin, N.Y., his birthplace.  He was a farmer by occupation residing two and one-half miles below this village on the East side of the Susquehanna river.  He was progressive in his methods of farming and sought to improve his products by new and advanced ideas and studied much literature to that end.  He was well read on all subjects, was exemplary, industrious, thrifty and highly respected.  An honored citizen, stable and conservative, he became influential and was closely associated with all affairs of the town preceding the creeping upon him of old age, and even then he did not abandon his interest.  Mr. Sands' wife, a most estimable woman, died several years ago as did the eldest daughter, Mrs.. Emma Seacord.  He is survived by five children:  William, Frederick and Miss Jennie Sands of Bainbridge, James of Vallonia Springs, and Charles Sands of Oswego.  The local chapter of the Masonic order, of which the deceased was an esteemed member of high degree will attend the funeral.  [Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 12, 1903]

Afton [Chenango Co., NY]:  George Burghdorf, 75, of Afton, died at the home of Mrs. Frances Graham on South Main Street at 6 o'clock Thursday night.  The late Mr. Burghdorf was born Aug. 21, 1859.  He resided in this village during the past 30 years.  He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Afton.  He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Afton.  He was also a member of the Afton Masonic Lodge, 360, F.&A.M., Vallonia Chapter, 80, R.A.M. and Afton Chapter, 137, O.E.S.  The late Mr. Burghdorf leaves no close survivors.  The funeral service for the deceased will be held at the home of Mrs. Graham, where he lived at 2:30 o'clock  Sunday afternoon.  The Rev. Clifford E Webb and the Rev. George A. .Roberts, pastors of the Presbyterian and Methodist Episcopal churches of Afton, respectively, will officiate.  Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery [Afton, NY]. [MHD notation:  d. 1934]

Deposit [Delaware Co., NY] relatives have received word of the death of Mrs. Mary Ellen Hamlin, widow of the late George E. Hamlin, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Harry F. VanCuren, in Pittsburgh, Pa., Thursday, at the age of 80 years.  Mrs. Hamlin was for many years a resident of Deposit.  Besides the daughter mentioned she is survived by one son, Vaughn L. Hamlin of Bridgeville, Pa.,  Interment at Bridgeville.  [MHD notation: Apr. 27, 1933]

John H. Lee, for m any years a resident of Deposit [Delaware Co.,  NY] and vicinity, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. James Scott, Big Hollow, April 23, aged 80 years.  Funeral services were held at the Mosher Funeral Home Tuesday, the Rev. Charles W Briggs officiating.  Burial was in Laurel Hill Cemetery.  [MHD notation: Apr. 27, 1933] 

Afton [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. Mary Daniels Benedict died at her home on Caswell Street Monday afternoon at 3 o'clock, after an illness of three weeks.  The funeral will be held at her home Thursday at 2 o'clock.  Rev. Lester Huxtable pastor of the Baptist Church, of which she has been a member and a worker for nearly 50 years, will have charge of the services.  The burial will be in Glenwood cemetery.  Mrs. Benedict is survived by her husband and one daughter, Grace, wife of Rev. George Carr, of Binghamton.  Mrs. Benedict was born in McDonough, 71 years ago.  Early in life she married Eli Nichols who died many years ago.  Eleven years ago she married Hobert Benedict, station agent of this village.  Mrs. Benedict had a host of friends who will mourn her passing.  [MHD notation:  Jan. 11, 1930]

 

 

 



Marriages (July 24)

A very pretty wedding took place in the Bainbridge Methodist church Saturday morning, May 3, at 10 o'clock when Miss Margaret Claudine Wilcox, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Nelson E. Wilcox, became the bride of Clinton Stead Wilcox, son of Mr. and Mrs. Albert C. Wilcox.  They were married in the presence of the immediate families of the couple with Rev. George N. Underwood, pastor of the church, officiating.  Mrs. Newton Hovey played the Bridal Chorus from Lohengrin as the couple entered attended by Miss Mildred Wilcox, sister of the bride, and Newton Hovey.  The bride wore a beige suit with navy accessories and a corsage of talisman roses and grape hyacinths and her attendant wore a red suit with navy accessories and a corsage similar to that of the bride.  Following the ceremony the wedding breakfast was served at Aldrich's Garden lodge on the Norwich road.  Mrs. Wilcox is a graduate of the Bainbridge High school, Elmira college and Syracuse university and is the librarian at the Bainbridge free library.  Mr. Wilcox is also a graduate of the Bainbridge High school and the RCA institutes of New York city.  He holds a position with the manufactured products division of the Borden company in Bainbridge.  After their honeymoon in New York city Mr. and Mrs. Wilcox will reside at 45 South Main street, Bainbridge.  There were several prenuptial parties for Mrs. Wilcox at which many nice gifts were received....[LMD notation:  1941]

Miss Ruth Louise Taylor, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Taylor, of East Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] and Conrad William Schlafer, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Schlafer, of Guilford were married Saturday noon at the home of the bride.  The double ring service was performed by Rev. Ralph Gamewell, pastor of the Presbyterian church at East Guilford.  The bride was charming in a white shadow lace dress, floor length, finger tip veil fastened to a coronet of orange blossoms and pearls.  She carried an arm bouquet of Johanna Hill roses, yellow daisies tied with yellow ribbon.  Her maid of honor was Miss Evelyn Schlafer, sister of the groom, and the best man was Clinton Taylor, brother of the bride.  Miss Schlafer chose a long dress of peach sheer and carried an arm bouquet of peach gladiolas tied with peach colored ribbon.  Mrs. Taylor, mother of the bride, wore a blue dress and a corsage of roses.  Mrs. Schlafer, mother of the groom, chose a rose colored dress and a white corsage.  The bride's traveling dress was a navy blue print with white accessories.  In order that the wedding music might be played by the bride's brother, Clinton, whom she also wanted to act as best man, he went to Binghamton where he played an electric organ and records were made of "O, Promise Me." which he also sang.  The Wagner and Mendelssohn wedding marches which were used for the processional and recessional, were also transcribed by Mr. Taylor at the organ.  The bride's gift to the maid of honor was a double string of pearls and the bridegroom gave a tie set to his attendant.  After the reception, a wedding breakfast was served by Ward Aldrich of Rockwells Mills at the home of the bride's parents.  Mrs. Schlafer is a graduate of the Sidney High school, class of '37.  She was given three showers, one by friends in the Scintilla, another by Mrs. Thomas Joyce, and the third by Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Schlafer of Guilford.  Mr. Schlafer is a graduate of the Guilford Central school and is employed in the Scintilla. Returning from a wedding trip they will reside in a new apartment in the house of Mr. and Mrs. John W. Taylor, parents of the bride.  [LMD notation:  June 15, 1941]

Miss Ruth Harriet Hager, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J.F. Hager, of Masonville [Delaware Co., NY], became the bride of Maurice G. Hayes, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], step-son of Mrs. Jessie R. Hayes, of Sidney Center, Friday afternoon, August 22, at 2 o'clock in the Presbyterian Church at Masonville.  The ceremony was performed by the Rev. Harold Hammer.  A violin solo, "I Love Your Truly" and two vocal solos "O Promise Me" and "Sweetest Story Ever Told" were rendered by Archie Wood, a brother-in-law of the bride, accompanied by Mrs. Dransfield Hamilton, of Elmira.  The bride, who was given in marriage by her father, wore a gown of white marquisette with a finger tip veil and carried a bouquet of white gladioli and gardenias.  Mrs. Archie Wood, sister of the bride, who was matron of honor, was attired in blue mousseline de soie and carried yellow gladioli.  The bridesmaids, Miss Grace Hager, sister of the bride, and Miss Elizabeth Finch, a cousin of the bridegroom, were dressed in pink mousseline de soie and carried bouquets of garden flowers.  The flower girl, Barbara Scott, a cousin of the bride, wore white organdy and carried a basket of garden flowers.  Charles Hager Jr., was ring bearer.  Edgar Hayes, brother of the bridegroom, was best man and Dr. O. Kahlenberg and Charles Hager, a brother of the bride, were ushers.  The mother of the bride was dressed in pale green and the mother of the bridegroom chose a green and white sheer print.  They both wore corsages of gardenias.  Following the ceremony there was a reception held at the Hager home after which the couple left on a motor trip through northern New York.  The bride's traveling costume was steel blue with dubonnet accessories.  The bride is a graduate of Bainbridge High School and the Presbyterian Hospital of New York City, and for the past six years has been school nurse at the Bainbridge School.  The bridegroom is a member of the local firm of Thorp and Hayes who operate a truck body and wood working plant.  Following the wedding trip they will reside in Bainbridge.  [LMD notation:  1941]

Miscellaneous - Lyon Family Reunion, 1872

Lyon Family Reunion

Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 3, 1872

 

The family and descendants of Charles and Betsey Lyon, held their annual reunion at the house of Joel C. Lyon, in the town of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult.  The past and present history of this aged couple deserves more than a passing notice.  Mr. Lyon was born in Westchester county, in this State, in 1784, and in company with three brothers, emigrated to this county about the year 1805, and settled on adjoining farms in the western part of this town.  The whole section in which they settled was then a howling wilderness, broken here and there by small clearings, and the log hut of some daring pioneer, who had left the abodes of civilization to share the dangers, the hardships and the excitement of frontier life.  The old house is still standing in which Mr. and Mrs. Lyon went to keeping house--and cooked their food the first season of warm weather by building a fire against a huge stump until stones could be gathered in the woods, and a chimney erected.  In that house (18x19 ft.) they reared a family of twelve children, nine of whom are still living, with their descendants who hold positions of prominence and respectability in community.  Mr. Lyon is the last survivor of the four brothers, and has outlived most of the early settlers around him, and is still living on the old farm on which he first settled, and though nearly eighty-eight years old, and his companion eighty-four, they both retain all their faculties in a remarkable degree, and are apparently well, hale and hearty, and stand at the head of a family of seventy-four; and although a portion of the family are scattered over the different States and Territories of the West, yet a large percentage of them gathered at the house of one of the sons on Christmas day in friendly intercourse, and passed a pleasant and profitable season; and after discussing the merits of the well loaded table of their generous host, departed to their various and distant homes, until the return of the set day brings them together again, to review the memoirs of the past, and strengthen the ties of the present.  J.W.S.

 

 

Blog Post Listing week of July 22-28, 2013

Marriages

Posted July 22, 2013

Jennie H. Randall - Perry F. Cole (1895)

Posted July 23, 2013
Marion Morse Furness - Rev. Warren Newton Bixby (1917)
Roxa V. Hahn - Irving D. Tillman (1917)
Anna B. Burbridge - E. Armstrong Towne (1899)

Posted July 24, 2013
Margaret Claudine Wilcox - Clinton Stead Wilcox (1941)
Ruth Louise Taylor - Conrad William Schlafer (1941)
Ruth Harriet Hager - Maurice G. Hayes (1941)

Posted July 25, 2013
Wallace Wilkins - Jennette Handy (34th anniversary, 1903)
Carol Louise Nichols - Raymond H. Thielking (1937)
Doris Mae Drake - Lawrence Erford Eggleston (1936)

Posted July 26, 2013
Jas. L. Seaman - Tabitha Bush Hazen (1900, 25th anniversary)

Posted July 27, 2013
Mr. & Mrs. James I. Seaman, 25th Anniversary (1900)

Posted July 28, 2013
Ruby Handy - Minnie Greek (Coventry)
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Thomson, 42nd anniversary (1938)
Iva Mae Crumb - Maxson Sturges Crumb (1938)
Mayfred H. Dildine - Gerald R. Weeks (1938)



Obituaries

Posted July 22, 2013

Bishop John Philip Newman (Saratoga, 1899)

Josephine E. Spencer Whitman (Bainbridge, 1899)

Mary E. Griffin (Binghamton, 1899)

Agnes D. Farrer (Endicott, 1942)

Dorothy M. Hyatt (Endicott, 1944)

Georgia R. Stewart (Johnson City, 1945)

Posted July 23, 2013

Mrs. Jesse Carey (Guilford, 1917)

Josephine M. Card (Bainbridge, 1917)

George E. Green (Binghamton, 1917)

George S. Wells (Morris, 1899)

Martin B. Stapleton (Unadilla, 1899)

Andrew A. Roehlk (Bainbridge, 1899)

John Henry Stoddard (Bainbridge, Coventryville, 1899)

Arthur D. Page (Doraville, 1922)

Posted July 24, 2013
Emily C. Wheat (Sidney, 1871)
Daniel J. Mosher (Norwich, 1896)
Oria R Baker (Bainbridge, 1894)
R. Duncan Harris (NYC, 1903)
Peter M. Packard (Bainbridge, 1903)
Lester Chase (Norwich, 1903)
Jerome B. Sands (Bainbridge, 1903)
George Burghdorf (Afton, 1934)
Mary Ellen Hamlin (Deposit, 1933)
John H. Lee (Deposit, 1933)
Mary Daniels Benedict (Afton, 1930)

Posted July 25, 2013
John Carnrick (Jersey City, NJ 1903)
Presson R. Peck (Afton, 1903)
Lottie Gilbert Shapley (Butternuts, 1903)
Martha E. Kentfield (San Francisco, CA, Masonville, 1903)
Lorin St. John (Unadilla, Mt. Upton, 1903)
Martin William Seeley (Sidney, 1940)
Frederick Gibson (Afton, 1932)
Mary J. Briggs (Afton, 1929)

Posted July 26, 2013
Charles Dix (Bainbridge, 1903)
Almira E. Porter (Coventry, 1903)
Frank L. Wilkins (Bainbridge, 1903)
Pliny K. Scofield (Bainbridge, Earlville, 1903)
Menzo Odell (Bainbridge, 1903)
Susan Post (Afton, 1896)
Mrs. Willis Aylsworth (Bainbridge, 1896)
Duncan C. Parker (Afton, 1896)
Melvin C. Lyon (Coventry, 1896)
Theodore "Dutch" Clark (Bainbridge)

Posted July 27, 2013
Mabel J. Davis (Bainbridge, 1900)
Mary G. Bliven (Elmira, 1900)
Dr. Orville S. Hill (Bainbridge, 1900)
Treat M. Scott (Choconut Center, 1900)
Phoebe M. Pattengill (Walton, 1900)
Everett D. Jones (Morrisville)
Sarah A. Woodmansee (Masonville)

Posted July 28, 2013
Mrs. Charles Terry (Bainbridge, 1903)
T. Jefferson Lyon (Bainbridge, Binghamton, 1903)
John Gaines (Sherburne, 1903)
Peter Healey (Binghamton, 1903)
Daniel W. Lacey (Belvidere, IL, 1903)
Ivan E. Willard (Clinton, 1903)
Lena Barnes Hovey (Guilford Center, 1938)
Anna Pfeil Campbell (Guilford, Norwich, 1938)
Lucy Olmstead Coburn (Otego, 1871)
 

Miscellaneous

Posted July 22, 2013

• Francis A. Demeree, Promoted to Cadet Lieutenant at Manlius, 1926.

Posted July 23, 2013

• Binghamton Clothing Co., Fire, July 22, 2013, Utica, NY Herald Dispatch, July 23,, 2013.
• Unknown Victims of Clothing Co. Fire Interred in Spring Forrest Cemetery, Armenia, NY Times, Aug. 2, 1913.

Posted July 24, 2013

• Lyon Family Reunion, Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 3, 1872

 

Posted July 25, 2013

• Horrible Accident, Erastus Whiting Loses Arm, Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 24, 1872

Posted July 26, 2013

• Two Slightly Hurt When Plane Stalls, Afton, Chenango Co., NY, 1926

Posted July 27, 2013

• Afton Resident Recalls Famous "Fire of 1884"

Posted July 28, 2013

• Postmaster Norton's Spitting Rules, 1900

Miscellaneous - Binghamton Clothing Co. Fire, July 22, 1913

Factory Workers, Trapped, Leap or Burn to Death

When Single Stairway is Blocked by Flames

Utica, NY Herald Dispatch, July 23, 1913

 

The worst fire in the history of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY] broke out yesterday afternoon shortly before 3 o'clock in the plant of the Binghamton Clothing Company at No. 17-18 Wall Street.  One hundred and twenty-five employees, mostly women and girls, were trapped.  Of these 41 were known to have escaped and three are suffering from severe injuries; 16 charred bodies which will probably never be identified are in the morgue.  Twenty-two operatives of the factory have been reported missing by their relatives.  A conservative estimate places the total number of deaths at about 50.  The known dead are:  Nellie Connor, Mary Cregan, Sidney Dimmick, Mrs Thomas Doran, Miss Fulmer, Mrs. Nellie Geason, Louis Hartwell, Louise Hartmann, John Schermerhorn, Mrs. Edwin White.  The total estimated damage by Fire and water in the buildings and stock of five concerns is estimated at $207.000.  A greater part is covered by insurance.  The post office is partly burned although the walls of the building were left intact.  In addition to the loss of the Binghamton Clothing Company severe losses were sustained by Sinon O'Neil the McKallor Drug Company and the Link Piano Company. 

 

The holocaust, the immensity of which is growing hourly, came close upon three alarms sounded from various parts of the city between 11 and 3 o'clock.  Assistant Chief Eldredge and Company No. 2 were engaged in extinguishing a small fire on Highland avenue when the alarm from the Binghamton clothing Company was sounded.

 

The immense loss of life is believed to be due not to the construction of the building, but to the fact that the employees, believing that one of the frequent fire drills was being held, made little effort to flee the building.  Many returned to the dressing rooms on the upper floor for clothing and pocketbooks and were caught in a seething floor of flames.  Women and girls, too weak to go farther, dropped exhausted on a fire escape at the rear of the building and literally roasted to death, their burning bodies slowly dropping into the furnace below.  A veritable rain of human flesh fell from the windows on the [?] side of the building.  The intensity of the heat which prevented the firemen from getting within fighting range of the building until rescue was too late made impossible the recovery of many bodies. 

 

Only the hardest and most efficient work on the part of the Fire Department prevented the spread of the flames to business blocks lining Water street between Court and Henry.  In the building occupied by the McKallor Drug Company was a large amount of highly explosive chemicals.  Iron doors and shutters prevented the fire from reaching this building.

 

Inscribed on the roll of fame which will stand forever in the memory of the city are the names of Nellie Connor and Sidney Dimmick, who stood at their posts until the last, watching the lines that went hurriedly past them.  Their turn came but it was too late.  And it is written "Died at their Post."  Valuable assistance was rendered by the visiting Erie firemen who were assembled in convention and by the Lesstershire Fire Department, whish was summoned as soon as the intensity of the fire was realized.  ....No exact estimate of the known dead or of the persons known to have been in the factory at the time of the fire can be obtained, owing to the loss of the list of employees which was in the company's safe and now lies buried beneath the mass of debris.  This statement is on the authority of Reed S. .Freeman president of the Binghamton Clothing Company and K.J. Lawrence, bookkeeper of the concern.

 

It was just 20 minutes before 2 o'clock when Jared Orr of No. 103 Walnut street, who was employed in the Binghamton Overall Factory on the third floor, went down to the ground floor of the building and sauntered over toward the elevator shaft.  The machines were humming busily and in the spot where the fire was to break forth there was nothing of interest.  He turned back and returned to work on the third floor.  There was apparently nothing on the first floor according to his story, which was in the least out of the ordinary.  .... Five minutes from the time Orr had made his rounds of the first floor of the overall factory the entire building was a mass of flames.  Mrs. Read B. Freeman, the wife of the president of the concern attempted to call Central Fire Station but says that she was unable to get connections.  James Hoyt, who was walking along Water street at the time turned in the box and in a moment the first relay of the department was at the scene.  The entire building supposed to be of fairly fireproof construction was seething in flames and the prostrate forms of women huddled together on the fire escapes gave the department the first indication of the terrible loss of life that was to ensue.

 

Before the companies had been on the scene a minute the heat had become so intense that it was almost impossible to get within 150 feet of the building.  Bodies came hurtling through the air from the windows of the entire four floors of the building and lay mangled on the earth.  A perfect rain of human flesh came from the south side and from the rear of the building.  Within five minutes after the first alarm of fire had sounded there was not a living being inside or within 100 feet at the Binghamton Overall Factory.  The loss of life had been as sudden as it was terrific.

 

There were just two questions which every man and woman in the seething crowd that passed upon the fire stricken territory for blocks wanted answered.  How did the fire start? Why was it that in a four-story building which was almost completely isolated from surrounding structures there should have been such a terrific loss of life? Why hadn't the 134 girls that were on the payroll of the concern on Saturday night been able to get out?

 

Reed B. Freeman, president of the company, said later in the day that fire drills had been inaugurated in the factory some time ago, and that they had been held at regular intervals with great success.  The entire force of employees had always made their exit to safety in a comparatively short time and there had seemed little danger that life would be lost in case of fire.  The tremendous loss of life was due to just one thing--the girls in the Binghamton Overall Factory yesterday afternoon believed that the gong, which in reality announced the coming of the holocaust was the signal for another fire drill.  They remembered the fire drills of the past and they thought that there was plenty of time to get down into the street.

 

Burned Victims Remains Interred

Armenia NY Times, Aug. 2, 1913

 

Binghamton--Upon the shoulders of exempt firemen and policemen, the twenty-one caskets containing the unidentified dead from the Binghamton Clothing Company fire, were borne to their last resting place in Spring Forest cemetery Sunday afternoon after a public funeral.  It was the most impressive and mournful occasion in the history of the southern tier since Daniel S. Dickson, sage, orator, the friend of Lincoln and leader of the northern "war Democrats" was buried in the same cemetery many years ago.

 

The line of plain, black caskets, each completely covered with flowers, reached from the main entrance of the cemetery to the plot set apart for them.  During the march of the coffin bearers, the thousands of persons in and about the cemetery were silent, and stood with bared heads.  Only occasionally was the silence broken by the groans of those in sorrow or the sobbing of women.  So many families had been affected by the disaster, either through the ties of blood or friendship, that it seemed as it most of those present were directly concerned.  The graves were made in a circle for the erection of a monument later.  The burial was preceded by a most impressive memorial service in Stone Opera House where the leaders of religious denominations, civic officials, head of fraternities, relatives and friends of the deceased and the public generally took part.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Obituaries (July 23)

Mrs. Jesse Carey, aged 73 years, at her home near Guilford [Chenango Co., N Y].  She is survived by her husband Jesse Carey, and twelve children, Mrs. Flora Carey Moffat and Mr. Charles Carey, both of Pittson, Pa., Mrs. Lizzie Wordan of Factoryville, Pa., Mrs. Ella Secrest of Deposit, N.Y., Mrs. Frank Woolbaugh of Bainbridge, N.Y., Clarence of Clark's Summit, Frank, William, Jesse, Nettie, Helen and Grace who are at home.  Messrs. Ross Shapley, Arthur and Myron Sexsmith, Ralph Hinman, Lavern Holmes and Charles Shapley acted as pall bearers.  Mrs. Carey had been in poor health for nearly a year past. Friday, Dec. 22, she suffered a shock and died Thursday morning, December 25, at half past two o'clock.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 4, 1917]

Mrs. Josephine M. Card was born in Rockdale [Guilford, Chenango Co., NY] in 1840.  She was the daughter of Hiram Locke and came to Bainbridge [Chenango Co.,, NY] when a schoolgirl with her parents who purchased the Central Hotel where she married Nelson D. Card in 1860.  Leaving the hotel in 1864 they bought what is now known as the Lilley farm where they made success in farming and the berry business for 24 years.  Retiring in 1888 they came to the village and bought the place where S.R. Floch now resides.  Mr. Card formed a partnership with Daniel S. Bristol in the insurance business which continued several years, retiring on account of ill health, and died in 1899.  Mrs. Card soon tired of living alone sold the place and went to Sidney to live until about three years ago her health failing she went to Philadelphia to live with her son and died of paralysis Jan. 15th, 1917.  She is survived by one son, Dr. Cleland L. Card, and two grandsons, all of Philadelphia.  Mrs. Card was for many years a member of the Episcopal Church, a devoted Christian, and leaves a large circle of friends to mourn her loss.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 25, 1917]

George E. Green, State Commissioner of Excise, died in the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary in New York city at midnight Tuesday, January 15, following an operation for mastoiditis.  He was taken ill during the afternoon at his apartments in the Biltmore and removed to the infirmary where it was decided that an operation was the only hope of saving his life.  He was 58 years of age.  Commissioner Green came to Binghamton [Broomek Co.,  NY] when a young man and had served as its mayor for five years.  He had been in the state senate for years and was a delegate to the last state constitutional convention.  He was appointed excise commissioner by Governor Whitman in April 1915.  [Bainbridge Re;publican, Jan. 25, 1917]

Last week Cashier George Whitman of Morris, wrote to relatives here stating that he had received a letter from the Philippine Islands written by Prof. Green who enlisted in the army from Morris, which said that the report of the death of George Wells that was current here some weeks ago was true.  Green said he stood within ten feet of Wells when he was shot, and that he ran to his assistance.  A bullet struck Wells in the left lung severing an artery, and that he died one hour afterwards.  Wells was conscious when he died, saying to Green, "go and help the others, nothing could be done for him as his time had come."  Wells was a member of Company D, 9th Infantry and had distinguished himself for bravery.  After his death had been published, it was afterwards denied, it being claimed to have been officially stated that Wells was hopefully recovering.  [Bainbridge Republican, Oct. 4, 1899]

Martin B. Stapleton was so badly injured at Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY] in an accident on the D.&H., that he died from the consequences a few hours later.  Stapleton was engaged as an extra brakeman on Conductor Frank Wright's train with Alfred Zeh, engineer.  The train stopped at Unadilla, the engine going to help an east bound train over the grade.  Stapleton was osn the rear of the tender,, signaling the engine in its return trip to the train.  While so signaling the engine struck the cars suddenly in such a manner as to throw the brakeman between the tender and first car.  He received a compound fracture of the right thigh.  His foot was smashed and all the arteries of the lower right limb sere severed.  The injuries were fatal.  Martin B Stapleton was 30 years old and resided at Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY].  He was a member of Company G of the 1st regiment who were stationed at Honolulu during the war, and was a fine young man.  Conductor Frank Wright is the son of Henry Wright of this village.  [Bainbridge Republican, Oct. 4, 1899]

Little Andrew A. Roehlk, the infant son and only child of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Roehlk, died this Wednesday morning at five o'clock, at the parents' home on Front St., aged nine months and twelve days.  The child was in usual health yesterday and was out-of-doors with its mother in the afternoon enjoying the sunny air and seemed sprightly as ever.  At tea time little Andrew began to droop and soon went into convulsions.  Dr. Taylor was sent for and after the second convulsion the child revived and was supposed to be getting better but Andrew's condition grew worse and continued to grow more so through the night until he expired.  Andrew was a handsome child, bright and unusually intelligent, and always ready to receive everyone with childish prattle.  His sorrowing parents have the sympathy of all in their sorrow.  The funeral will probably be Friday. 

"There is no flock, however watched and tended,

But one dead lamb is there!

There is no fireside, howsoe'er defended,

But has one vacant chair."

[Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 22, 1899]

 

John Henry Stoddard, a former citizen of Bainbridge [Chenango Co.,, NY] died at his home in Coventryville [Chenango Co., NY], Tuesday, November 28th, 1899, aged 53 years.  Mr. Stoddard had been a sufferer from Bright's disease for sometime but did not give up business until the past summer.  He was engaged in the grocer's trade and was also postmaster, but was obliged to give up both several months before he died.  He sold his home and store property to Mrs. Jennie Stoddard, and Mr. S.A. Stoddard was appointed postmaster.  Mr. Stoddard is survived by his wife, Eva Chichester Stoddard, whom he married in 1894.  The funeral was held in Coventryville, Thursday, November 30, Rev. A. McIntyre officiating.  Music was rendered by a male quartette from Bainbridge, Messrs. Evans, Banner, Gilbert and Spencer.  The remains were taken to Middleburgh for interment.  The wife will go to Middleburgh to reside which was her former home.  Mr. Stoddard was a nephew of Mrs. Lloyd of Washington, formerly Mrs. Simeon Warren of Bainbridge.  [Bainbridge Republican, Dec. 6, 1899]



Arthur D. Page, known throughout this section as the smallest man in the world, died at the home of his sister, Mrs. Ray Miller, in Doraville, Wednesday night.  Mr. Page was 44 years of age and measured exactly 36 inches in height.  Mr. Page traveled all over the world with various show troops and was well known throughout the United States and abroad.  The funeral will be held from the home of his sister in Doraville at 1:30 o'clock Saturday afternoon.  Burial wil be in Perch Pond Cemetery.  [MHD notation:  Oct. 25, 1922]

 

The funeral of Arthur D. Page, 44, known as the smallest man in the world, was held today at the home of his sister, Mrs. Ray Miller in Doraville, where burial took place.  Mr. Page was 36 inches in height and for more than 15 years traveled throughout the world with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey's circus.  Mr. Page, in circus life, was dressed as a policeman.  [d. 1922]