Marriages (November 2)

A very pretty, quiet wedding took place at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Tracy H. Morse, Prospect Avenue, Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], Wednesday evening, June 10th, when their daughter, Edna Mae, was united in marriage to Charles M. Oles, of Unadilla, the Rev. Granville Rathbone, of Oneonta, officiating.  The bridal party consisted of four ushers, Messrs. Ralph D. Morse,  Harry Morse, Ezra G. Rowley and Harry Oles, the little pillow bearer, Master Frederick Morse, the matron of honor, Mrs. Ezra G. Rowley, only sister of the bride, and bridesmaid, Miss Isa B. Hanford, of Walton, cousin of the bride.  [Bainbridge Republican, June 27, 1907]

 

In perfect harmony with the beautiful month of June, was the marriage of Miss Mary Louise Briggs to Mr. John Erle Roberts, which took place Wednesday morning, June 26th, at the First Presbyterian church of this pace [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].  The interior of the church was tastefully decorated with palms, ferns and flowers.  Extending across the entire front was a solid bank of palms and ferns, relieved by bunches of daisies.  The windows were banked with maiden hair ferns and butter cups.  A large number of people assembled to witness the ceremony and promptly at ten o'clock the bridal party entered to the strains of Lohengrin's wedding March.  The bride leaning upon the arm of her father, preceded by the ushers, was met at the altar by the bridegroom.  The ceremony was performed by the Rev. W.A. Carrington using the entire Episcopal service with the ring.  During the ceremony the organist, Miss Janet Juliand, played "Evening Star," from Tannhauser, and Mendelssohn's Wedding March as they left the church.  The bride was charming in a dainty traveling gown of gray French voile and carried a white prayer book.  She is the daughter of Chas. R. Briggs, and is one of Bainbridge's attractive and highly esteemed young ladies.  The bride groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Mitchell Roberts, and is a young man of sterling qualities, possessing firm business talents.  He now holds a responsible and lucrative position with the D.&H. company in Superintendent Kemper's office, Albany, N.Y.  Both Mr. and Mrs. Roberts have always resided in Bainbridge where they are exceedingly popular.  The bride received over 150 gifts, all costly and useful:  A beautiful cut glass salad bowl from the employees at the D.&H. office at this place; an expensive oak dining table and chairs from Mr. Geo. T. Campbell; a large library table, mission style, and drop electric lamp from Mr. and Mrs. W.W. Hovey; a set of handsome cut glass sherbet glasses from Dr. and Mrs. H.E.J. Hammond.  There were many gifts of cut glass, beautiful silver, and choice Haviland pieces.  The cash gifts amounted to about $200, among them being $100 in gold from Mr. and Mrs. J.M. Roberts, and a $50 check from Mr. Ransom Mitchell, Oneonta, an uncle of the groom, The entire value of the gifts received is estimated at $1,000.  A concourse of friends collected at the depot, and Mr. and Mrs. Roberts left on the 10:53 train amid a shower of rice and congratulations for a trip through Canada and the Great Lakes. They will be at home September 1st, 14-15 Broadway, Rensselaer, N.Y.... [Bainbridge Republican, June 27, 1907]

 

Mrs. Ellsworth Ward of this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], has been granted an interlocutory judgment of divorce and the right to resume her maiden name, by Justice Albert F. Gladding, through her attorney, I.J. Tillman, formerly of Bainbridge, on June 22nd, at Norwich.  The grounds for this divorce is the conduct of her husband, who married in November last, Miss Ella A. LeSuer, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], and with whom he has since been living as his wife in various places.  In July, 1904, Ellsworth Ward married Mabel Springstein, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Eli K. Springstein, of Bainbridge.  They were school friends in Binghamton, both parties formerly residing in that city.  Later Ward came to Bainbridge and opened a photograph gallery, where he continued doing a good business until last November. During last fall he met Miss Ella A. LeSuer who came to Bainbridge frequently from Afton.  Presumably she came to have her picture taken and Ward became enamored with her.  His fascination for her was not known or surmised at that time.  Last November he announced he had a position in a studio in Buffalo and would give up business here, consequently he gave up housekeeping in the Duncan Copley house, on North Main street, stored his household goods with his father-in-law, Mr. Springstein, and left his wife with her parents, saying that as soon as he became established in his new place he would return for her and their household effects.  He left Bainbridge for Buffalo stopping at Hornell where he joined the LeSuer girl and they were married at that place.  They lived together in Buffalo until in January this year when Ward returned to Bainbridge and joined his wife, No. 1.  He remained here four weeks, keeping up his husband like relations with her, having announced that he found Buffalo business unprofitable.  His wife, No. 1, did not at all surmise the deception being practiced by him.  He wrote her frequently from Buffalo and appeared devoted to her.  Ward next went to Norwich and was there joined by the LeSuer girl.  They obtained board and rooms in a house on Academy street.  Ward first secured employment in the silk mill, later he changed to the Hammer Factory and finally was employed in the grocery store of Hoffman and Windsor.  During all this time in Norwich he lived with the LeSuer girl and represented her to be his wife.  Frequently he made trips to Bainbridge to see his wife here.  He continued this dual matrimonial existence up till about April this year, when Mrs. Ward, No. 1, was apprised of the situation.  The news came with such suddenness and shock as to cause prostration and she was under the care of a physician for a period.  Early in the winter rumors of Ward's unfaithfulness kept coming to Mrs. Ward's parents but they were loath to believe them as they never had observed in him otherwise than complete devotion.  Mr. and Mrs. Springstein had been exceedingly kind to Ward having provided a home and board that he might get a start in business and concluded for a while that the rumors were idle.  An investigation was finally started and through the Town Clerk they secured from the State Board of Health a copy of the marriage certificate of Ward to the LeSuer girl which told the truth.  Mr. and Mrs. Ellsworth Ward are young people about the age of twenty-two.  Mrs. Ward, proper, was born in Bainbridge; her parents moved to Binghamton some years ago returning to Bainbridge to live about four years ago.  She has lived most of her life in this village and is known as a fine and excellent young lady; pleasant and womanly and is a prominent member of the Methodist church.  Up to the time Ward fell in with the LeSuer girl he bore a good reputation.  He attended the Methodist church and was a man of good habits.  It was a surprise to this community to learn of this crime and the contemptible and shameful desertion of his wife.  About a year ago Ward's father committed suicide in Binghamton, and the son came into possession of $1,000 insurance money. As a result of the testimony brought out at the divorce proceedings a warrant has been issued for the arrest of Ward. He has left Norwich and has not yet been apprehended.  [Bainbridge Republican, July 4, 1907]

Miscellaneous, Wreck on the D.&H. at Bainbridge

Wreck on the D.&H.

Rear End Collision One mile and a Half above the Village

Engineer and Fireman Killed

Bainbridge Republican, June 20, 1907

 



A bad wreck occurred on the D.& H. Tuesday morning about fifteen minutes past seven o'clock, one mile and a half above this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].  In which two men were killed.  The scene of the wreck was just back of the Alvin Hayes farm residence above the Beatty crossing.  A fast freight going east overtook another train going in the same direction, causing a rear end collision, the engine of the second train crashing into the caboose of the first train.  The impact was so great that the engine was thrown from the track down a fifteen foot embankment and rolled over once and a half.  The engineer and firemen were crushed beneath the engine and instantly killed.  It is believed that just before the collision the engineer jumped and the engine rolled onto him, and that the fireman was caught while at work near the tender and went down with the engine.  The caboose of the first train was smashed into splinters and a steel coal car was rendered shapeless.  A coal car next to the derailed engine was thrown across the west bound track and together with the wreckage of the caboose, burned.  The remainder of both trains were left on the track.  It was a terrible accident considering the fact that from the spot where it occurred extended a straight and clear stretch of track for some distance.  The train ahead could have been seen by the engineer of the approaching train and it almost seems that the collision could have been averted.  It was stated at the scene of the wreck that the crew of the engine which caused the collision had been on duty continuously for twenty-five hours and that the engineer had fallen asleep only awaking in time to jump.  It was also said that the air brakes on the train failed to work which was the cause of failure to check the speed of the train.  That the engine struck the caboose with great force was seen by its position afterward, some distance from the track.  Two members of the first train crew who were in the caboose saved their lives by jumping.  The engineer who was killed was Charles Craig, age 25 years, and lived at Carbondale.  He was married and had one child.  His wife and child were in the west on a visit.  The fireman was Morris Keglar, aged 21, who was unmarried and also lived at Carbondale.  The news of the wreck reached this station soon after its occurrence and many people hastened to the scene.  Both tracks were blocked for some time.  The Oneonta wrecking crew arrived and the tracks were cleared at 11 a.m., so as to resume the running of trains.  Coroner Johnson, of Oxford, was sent for and viewed the bodies of the dead engineer and fireman.  They were placed in charge of Undertaker Hastings and brought to this village and shipped to their homes in Carbondale on the evening train. 

 

The above shows the freight engine in Tuesday morning's wreck.  It lies down a steep embankment where it rolled after the collision.  The body of the fireman was dug out from the corner of the tender seen in the picture, and the body of the engineer was found just back of where the three men are standing, having been crushed into the ground by the engine as it went over.

 

 





Obituaries (November 2)

Death of Ira R. Gibson, Dies From Injuries Received at Casein Factory:  Seldom has our community been so painfully shocked, nor can words express the sorrow that fell on many hearts, when it was learned on Thursday last about 3:00 p.m., that "Death had come up into our windows" and this time summoned from among us Ira R Gibson after an illness of only a week, but a week of great suffering, resulting from accident and consequent lockjaw.  Apparently he was gaining nicely and this seeming improvement, though of short duration, served to arouse hopes that he might speedily recover.  How delusive were such hopes was shown when on Wednesday following, alarming symptoms manifested themselves and although best of physicians were almost constantly in attendance, dread lockjaw developed and terminated fatally  less than twenty-four hours later.  At about 3:00 p.m. Thursday, June 13, the release came and his soul passed out into the unknown, away from pain and suffering into the glorious presence of his Master, and the wasted tired body was at rest.  Mr. Gibson was a man of sterling integrity, faithful to the minutest details of his duty.  The company whom he served considered him one of the most painstaking and faithful custodians of their interests and as such he was appreciated far more than can be realized by our readers.  The deceased was born twenty-eight years ago in Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY] and spent his boyhood in that section.  He came to Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] about ten years ago and entered the employment of the Sugar of Milk Company, since which time he has been thoroughly identified with Creamery and Casein interests.  The grief that lies heavy upon the stricken home cannot be dispelled, but nothing can take away the heritage of love and kindnesses which he has left behind.  Actuated by a common feeling the entire community has left no doubt of its profound sympathy which though insufficient, is all that friendly hearts can offer or willing hands perform in such hours of sore affliction.  From long distances and from every side came a profusion of flowers and expressions of sympathy to the sorrowing wife and members of the family.  The funeral services were held at his late residence on Sunday at one p.m.  The day was calm, beautiful and bright and so large a concourse of relatives and friends assembled, the house could not accommodate nearly all.  The services were conducted by Rev. R.S. O'Dell, of Delhi, who but one short year ago united the deceased in marriage to Miss Bessie Pratt, of this town.  Rev. O'Dell founded his remarks upon Jeremiah 9:21, "For death is come up into our windows, and is entered to cut off the young men from our streets."  He also spoke feelingly and his words were replete with comfort and hope.  The floral tributes were especially beautiful, consisting of many pieces, a lyre, a broken column, many wreaths and a great profusion of cut flowers resting upon and about the casket.  Music was rendered by a male quartette consisting of Messrs. Banner, Bentley Gilbert and Smith.  The bearers were:  H.B. Davenport, S. Bennett, F.D. Hoyt, Fred Newman, Robert Banner and Frank Redfield.  The interment was in Green Lawn cemetery [Bainbridge, NY], the remains being escorted to the grave by the Roberts and Danforth Hose companies, he being a member of the Roberts Hose and at one time Asst. Chief of the Fire Department.  The deceased is survived besides his wife, by a mother, Mrs. Anson Davenport, of Guilford, two brothers, Lynn Gibson, of Mt. Upton and C.B. Gibson, of Oneonta, two sisters, Miss Lina Gibson, of Cooperstown, and Miss Fleda Gibson, of Amsterdam.  [Bainbridge Republican, June 20, 1907]

 

Dr. Robert Nathan Parke, for over eighteen years rector of St. Matthews Episcopal church of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], until June of this year, passed away, at the home of his son, Frederick H. Parke, in Pittsburg, Pa., Monday night, after months of ill health due to his advanced age and grief for the loss of his wife, whose death occurred this spring.  Dr. Parke was born in Geneva, on February 12, 1828, and was the son of a prominent lawyer at that place, his father having been at one time district attorney of Ontario county.  Dr. Parke received his education at Hobart college in Geneva, from which institution he graduated in 1848, at the age of 20 years.  Upon his graduation he entered the General Theological seminary at New York, he was ordained a deacon of the of the Episcopal church and in 1853 he was made a priest.  His first charge was at Hammondsport.  For nine years from 1875 to 1884, he served Christ church at Binghamton, and served twelve years at Waterloo, from 1859 to 1871, at which place he built a fine stone church, and built up a flourishing parish.  In 1854 he was united in marriage with Amonette T. Taylor, of Geneva, who died at Binghamton in 1880, and in 1886 he was married to James Ellen Drummond, who died at Binghamton this spring.  In March 1889 Dr. Parke came to Unadilla.  For ten years he was archdeacon of the archdeaconry of the Susquehanna.  The deceased is survived by three sons, Robert Augustus, of Temogmi, Ont., Henry Tillman, of New York city, and Frederick Huntington, of Pittsburg, and one sister, Emma Elizabeth Tillman, of Brooklyn.  The remains were brought to Unadilla and the funeral was held on Thursday at 4:30 at St. Mathew's church.  [Bainbridge Republican, July 18, 1907]

 

From the Adams County Record, Ohio, issue of July 11th, we take an account of the death of H.W.Dickinson, whose interment occurred in the Episcopal cemetery, Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], last week Thursday.  Mr. Dickinson married Miss Anna Juliand of this place.  "After a week's illness of cerebral hemorrhage, H.W. Dickinson was claimed by the messenger of death, Saturday night at ten o'clock.  On the Saturday evening preceding death, while enjoying the pleasures of home, he was suddenly stricken and for a number of hours was in a precarious condition, but later he rallied and his many friends anticipated his early and complete recovery, but in this hope they were doomed to disappointment for on Friday night a second attack of the malady seized the sufferer and the loved ones about his couch soon realized that he was passing into the valley of the shadow of death.  With a vitality characteristic of the patient, the spark of life remained until the eventide when he passed gently from the night of death to the morning of life. 

'And with the morn those angel faces smile,

Which he had loved long since, but lost awhile.'

No death has occurred in our village in many years that has caused a more genuine sorrow than that of Mr. Dickinson.  Active in the business affairs of the village and always ready to contribute to its improvement in every legitimate sense, his loss is indeed a personal one to our people.  Hiram Walter Dickinson was born in Whitehall, Washington County, New York, October 15, 1851, and was reared in the village of his birth. He attended the village schools during his early years and from 1868 to 1870 he attended the Vermont Episcopal Institute at Burlington.  In early life he formed the desire to be a banker and from 1870 to 1879 he was teller of the Merchant's National Bank of Whitehall, N.Y.  During 1882 and 1883 he was a bookkeeper at Ithaca, N.Y.  He then spent two years in touring the West and came back greatly improved in health.  In the Fall of 1885 he settled in western Kansas where he had a bank in Ingalls and business interests in Minneola and Montezuma.  He was married in 1889 to Miss Anna M. Juliand, of Bainbridge, N.Y., a lady of literary mind and scholarly attainment, and to them were born two daughters, Margaret and Dorothy, aged respectively fifteen and thirteen years.  On June 1, 1890, Mr. Dickinson opened the Adams County Bank at West Union, Ohio, and it soon developed into a vigorous financial institution and during its career it has enjoyed the full confidence of the public.  Mr. Dickinson was conservative in his business methods such as is of necessity required in the banking business, but he never failed to accommodate a friend nor even a stranger whom he believed to be worthy. He was a consistent, manly man, intolerant toward all hypocrisy, lenient toward the erring, generous in sympathy and liberal with kindly deeds.  In the business world his word was his bond and his home life was sublimely beautiful.  On Tuesday morning from nine to twelve o'clock the casket was open at the family residence for a final farewell and the hundreds of sympathetic friends that looked upon the familiar face showed the place that the deceased held in the hearts of the people.  The floral tributes were beautiful and of the most exquisite design, representing donors from Cincinnati, Maysville, Columbus, Portsmouth, Ironton, Meadville, Pa., and every village in the county.  Scores of local citizens sent flowers, and the West Union K. of P. Lodge and the Temple of Pythian Sisters contributed splendid emblematic designs, the deceased having been a member of each of these fraternities.  He was for several years a member of the West Union Board of Education and for the past ten years he has been the efficient treasurer of the Adams County Agricultural Society.  The funeral services were held at the residence, Tuesday afternoon at three o'clock, conducted by Archdeacon Edwards, of the Protestant Episcopal church, of Cincinnati, of which the deceased and ,family were communicants.  Business was practically suspended during the hour of the services.  Early Wednesday morning the remains were conveyed to Winchester, by Undertaker O.C. Robuck, accompanied by a number of friends, and the grief stricken widow and her sister, Miss Juliand, of Washington, D.C., started on their sad journey to Bainbridge, N.Y., where the remains were laid to rest by the side of the loved ones that have preceded him in death."  .... [Bainbridge Republican, July 18, 1907]

Obituaries (November 1)

Mrs. Martin Church died Tuesday morning, May 28th, aged 63 years.  Mrs. Church was the daughter of Uri and Hannah Buckley Bartle.  She was born December 15, 1843, at East McDonough [Chenango Co.,  NY].  For a number of years she has been a resident of this village and a member of the Congregational church.  She is survived by her husband, one son, Ransom, of Mohawk, one sister, Mrs. Ira Fish, of this place, and two brothers, Philip, of Oxford, and Ransom, of Iowa.  Funeral was held private at her late home, Friday afternoon at 2 p.m.  [Bainbridge Republican, June 6, 1907]

 

Mrs. Huldah Davis died at her home on Hudson street, Lestershire, Saturday, at five a.m., aged sixty-five years.  The funeral was held form her late home, Monday afternoon, Rev. F.O. Belden, pastor of the Main street Baptist church officiating.  Interment was made at the Floral avenue cemetery.  Last December Mrs. Davis, who has been in feeble health for several years, fell breaking her hip, she recovered however and was able to walk.  About one month ago her general health began to fail, resulting in her death.  The deceased leaves a husband, Charles A. Davis, and two sons, Rev. John A. Davis, of Binghamton, and Alonze Davis, of Philadelphia. The greater part of Mrs. Davis' life was spent in Afton [Chenango Co., NY] and vicinity where she became a member of the Baptist church and was esteemed by all who knew her.  [Bainbridge Republican, June 6, 1907]

 

John H. Tator, president of the First National bank of Cobleskill, died at the Invalids' Home and Surgical institute at Buffalo, Thursday, aged about 77 years.  Deceased was born at Mineral Springs and removed to Cobleskill about thirty-three years ago.  He has devoted his time to looking after his various farms and been extensively engaged in the purchasing of hope for export trade.  For a number of years he has been identified with the First National bank, of which he is one of the largest stockholders, first as vice-president and president since the death of Charles  H. Shaver about twelve years ago.  [Bainbridge Republican, June 13, 1907]

 

A pathetic incident in connection with the railroad wreck just came to light to-day.  Fireman Keglas was killed in this town where lived his sister.  The remains were here throughout one day and were taken to Carbondale before the sister had knowledge of his death, and nobody at the time knew that there were relatives living near.   The sister is Mrs. Erwin VanValklenburg and resides in West Bianbridge [Chenango Co. NY] at the home of her aunt, Mrs. Charles Lake.  The first news of the death came when Mr. Van Valkenburg read of the accident in one of the papers and informed his wife.  A telegram had been sent from the deceased home to the sister telling of the death and the hour of the funeral which was at 2 p.m. today at Carbondale.  The telegram was not delivered until this morning, too late for Mrs. Van Valkenburg to make railroad connections so as to reach there in time.  She left however for Carbondale on the 1:30 p.m. train today.  The deceased leaves a mother, four sisters and two brothers.  Mr. and Mrs. Van Valkenburg moved to Bainbridge from Harpursville only a few months ago.  [Bainbridge Republican, June 20, 1907]

Miscellaneous, BHS Class of 1928, Part 1

Bainbridge High School

Class of 1928

"Echo" Senior Portraits

 

Doris Andrews

"My grief lies onward, my joys behind."

Marshall Andrews

"Give me leave to enjoy myself."

Gerald Ford

"Had I been present at the creation, I would have given

some useful hints for the better ordering of the Universe"

Mary Hager

"Blushing is the color of virtue."

Mae Houghtaling

"Her voice was ever soft, gentle and low

-an excellent thing in woman."

Class Vice-president

Helen Howland

"Oh, why should life all labor be?"



Marriages (October 31)

Miss Hazel M. Peck, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Peck, of North Main street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], was united in marriage with Ralph B. Cass of Afton, at the bride's home Wednesday afternoon, at four o'clock, by the Rev. H.A. Walk of Syracuse, formerly of Afton in the presence of relatives and a few friends.  The wedding march was played by Miss Ina Chamberlain of Afton.  The bride and groom were unattended. The bride was dressed in white silk trimmed with white applique and chiffon.  The decorations of the house were exceedingly pretty, ferns and apple blossoms predominating everywhere.  In the dining room the fragrant blossoms added zest to the fine wedding lunch which was served.   Mr. and Mrs. Cass left in the evening for a tour through the western part of the state.  Their residence will be in Afton [Chenango Co., NY] where the groom holds a position in the dry goods store of M.J. Mudge.  These young people have commenced the new life under happy auspices, each being esteemed highly in their respective towns.  The bride gave very efficient service in the Bainbridge telephone office the past year.  The guests at the wedding were much pleased to see the many gifts to the bride, expressive of the esteem in which she is held.  [Bainbridge Republican,   June 6, 1907]

A very pretty wedding was solemnized at the Sidney  Methodist Episcopal Church on Tuesday, July 11, at high noon, when Miss Helen Harper, daughter of Mrs. W.O. Harper, of Nineveh [Broome Co.,  NY], became the bride of Mr. Harold Dorman Westcott, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.S. Westcott, of Norfolk, Va.  The ceremony was performed by the bride's uncle, Rev. R.S. Boyce, of Honesdale, Pa.  She was given in marriage by her uncle, James Hare, of Sidney.  The church was attractively decorated with hydrangeas and delphiniums.  Wedding music was rendered by Mrs. Leona Siver Keeley, Miss Mary Boyce, cousin of the bride, sang the beautiful song, "At Dawning."  The bride was attired in rose beige chiffon and carried a corsage bouquet of sweet-peas.  Following the ceremony a wedding luncheon and reception were held at the Hotel DeCumber.  Mr. and Mrs. Westcott left by auto for a week's stay in the White Mountains.  They will be at home after July 18 at Hartwick, N.Y. [Otsego Co., NY]  The bride has been principal of School no. 3 at Baldwin, L.I., for several years.  Mr. Westcott is a civil engineer of the state highway department.  The bride will be remembered as a former Guilford girl, who together with her parents, resided in the home now owned by Herman Foote, and made many friends while her home was here.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, July 20, 1933]

Coventry [Chenango Co., NY]:  Nelson Aylesworth and Miss Ida Willett, we learn, were recently made one through matrimony.  "Nett" has been in the habit of getting up decidedly early Monday mornings for some time past, and now this accounts for it all.  Well, we wish himself and bride a long and prosperous journey through life, and should any troubles be their lot, may they be little ones.  [Bainbridge Republican, Aug. 10, 1883]

Two members of Rev. Ellsworth A. Snyder's former parish, Mr. Ray N. Margeson and Miss Barbara Hurd, of Painted Post, N.Y., were united in marriage Sunday at twelve o'clock noon at the local Baptist parsonage.  The couple were attended by Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Jacobs, of Corning, N.Y., also formerly in Mr. Snyder's parish.  The bride and groom left immediately after the ceremony for Raquette Lake, where they will spend a two-weeks honeymoon before returning to their new home in Painted Post.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Aug. 17, 1933]

Miss Bessie P. Lamphere, of Deposit [Delaware Co.,  NY], became the bride of Alex W. Smith, of the same place, at eight o'clock Tuesday evening at the home of Mrs. Earl Jones in Bainbridge.  A ring ceremony was performed by Rev. Ellsworth A. Snyder.  Close relatives of the bride and groom were present.  The couple were attended by Mr. and Mrs. W.S. Potter, of this village, Mr. Potter being a brother of the bride.  Mr. and Mrs. Smith motored to New York City where they will embark for a cruise to Halifax, N.S. and will be at home after September first on Star Route, Deposit.  [Bainbridge News & Republican,  Aug. 17, 1933]

 

Miscellaneous, Monument to Lady Upton

Monument to Lady Upton

Bainbridge Republican, May 30, 1907

 

A monument has just been erected over the grave of Lady Upton, a trotting horse which 35 years ago won many races in the middle and eastern states, and in Canada, which died last March at Mt. Upton at the remarkable age of 48 years.  Lady Upton had a record of 2:17 to an old fashioned high wheel sulky.

 

Nobility? No, Monument to Lady Upton

Honors Mt. Upton's Greatest Trotter

Binghamton Press, Sept. 3, 1950

 

A moss-covered stone monument stands in a corner lot near Mt. Upton depot.  A visitor to the Otsego County [sic] community, investigating its description, might be surprised to find the shaft dedicated to nobility.  The name it bears is "Lady Upton."  Further investigation would clear up the question of the title but make the observer wonder even more about the purpose of the memorial.  For Lady Upton was a horse and the monument is dedicated to her accomplishments.

 

C.R. Richmond, who operates the Mt. Upton hardware store, is one who recalls more vividly than most, the story of the noble mare.  His grandfather, the late Cowell Chamberlain was her owner and the man who erected the monument even before the horse died as a memorial to her record.  Mr. Richmond remembers that his grandfather took the horse known as Lady Upton "on a $50 note" from a man named Cook of Guilford in 1866 and turned her into the greatest trotter the region has ever known. 

 

Although the big mare spent most of her days as a work horse hauling wood and doing chores of various sorts on the Chamberlin estate at Mt. Upton she showed a natural aptitude for the race track.  She became the darling of trotting fans at county fairs throughout the area and set many records of long standing including that of the 2:16 trot for high wheeled sulky at the Whitney Point Fair, according to records in Mr. Richmond's possession. 

 

Lady Upton was entered in 24 harness races between 1877 and 1885, according to the records.  She won them all.  The horse continued to be a favorite at the county fair tracks and earned a nationwide reputation as one of America's leading trotters.  Between race season she took the farm chores with equal efficiency.  She was as faithful a worker as a race horse and her service continued long after she had attained the normal equine's normal span of years.

 

When she died March 12, 1907, at the age of 43, her owner buried her beneath the stone marker which stands in testimonial to her unusual qualities. 

 

 

 

 



Obituaries (October 31)

Two men were drowned in Otsego lake last Friday evening while fishing.  Their names were John Kelly and William Lee and both were unmarried.  they were employed at the place of Mrs. Pell Clark on the upper end of the lake.  They started after super to fish and the boat had a small hole in it which gradually filled with water.  It suddenly began to sink and the young men were unable to swim to safety.  They were seen by other fishermen some distance away but by the time help arrived at the spot there was no trace of the fishermen or their boat.  Kelly was 26 years of age and Lee was 24 years old.  The latter recently came from England and Kelly's home was at Warren in Herkimer county.  Neither have relatives in this section.  The bodies have not yet been recovered but it is thought that they can be found.  [Bainbridge Republican, May 2, 1907]

 

Trainman Maurice E. Murphy, who was one of the crew on Extra 821, Conductor Pratt, was missed from his train Thursday morning when it reached Delanson at an early hour, and the engine went back after him.  He was found dead, with a slight wound on the back of his head, about one mile from North Esperance.  He is supposed to have fallen from the train coming up the Esperance hill.  Deceased is about 22 years of age and was boarding in the Baird block on Main street, Oneonta.  His parents reside at Afton.  [Bainbridge Republican, May 16, 1907]

 

Harvey D. Montgomery died in the prison hospital at Auburn, Sunday night, May 5th, aged 65 years.  His daughter, Mrs. Dell M. Simonson, who lives on the Montgomery homestead at Hobart, received a telegram announcing his death Monday morning, and telling her that she might take charge of the body if she so desired.  Mrs. Simonson immediately telegraphed back to have the body embalmed and sent to Hobart.  Funeral services were held from the Montgomery homestead Thursday.  His former pastor, Rev. A.E. Lord, officiated.  He leaves beside his daughter, one son, George, who is a clerk at Pocantino Inn, Margaretville.  Montgomery was serving a life sentence at Auburn and had been there a little over three years.  He was convicted of the murder of his wife, Amelia B. Montgomery, at Delhi [Delaware Co., NY], June 2, 1902, and sentenced by Judge Seward to be electrocuted.  An appeal was taken, a new trial granted and a change of venue ordered.  Montgomery was taken from Delhi to Cooperstown in March, 1904, found guilty of murder in the second degree and sentenced by Judge miller to Auburn for life.  Mrs. Amelia Brown Montgomery was shot on the night of March 30th,  1901, by a gun in the hands of her husband, Harvey D. Montgomery, as she lay in bed.  The shooting was never denied but Montgomery always claimed to the day he died that the shooting was accidental.  That he was attacked with a fainting spell as he was going to the window to frighten away thieves from his pig pens and as he fell the gun was discharged.  The motive claimed by the prosecution was that Montgomery shot his wife to obtain her money which amounted, it is said, to about $10,000.  The case was strongly contested on both sides. 

In commenting upon the death of Montgomery, the Walton Reporter said:  "The death of Harvey D. Montgomery in Auburn is the last chapter of a peculiar murder case.  Montgomery was convicted largely because he was believed to be guilty rather than on the evidence.  There were very few lawyers in the county who followed the trial that thought he would be found guilty.  There was an entire absence of direct evidence and much of the stuff put forward by the prosecution as evidence had not enough weight to justify the hanging of a cat.  No possible motive was brought forward. In fact every motive of self interest lay in his wife's living.  There is a theory that he killed his wife in a fit of passion, then shot her to conceal the crime.  This was not however in the trial so that it had no part in producing the verdict."  [Bainbridge Republican, May 16, 1907]

 

North Sanford [Broome Co., NY]:  Mrs. William Pierce died very suddenly, only about two hours and a half after she was stricken down, at her home at North Sanford, Wednesday, May 15th, 1907.  Mrs. Pierce was an active member of the M.E. church where it was impossible to estimate her value; as a Christian her example was worthy of imitation; by her influence she had made many dear friends, and she had made a cheerful home for her bereaved husband.  Mr. and Mrs. Pierce were united in marriage about ten years ago.  Mrs. Pierce was a devoted companion and Christian, to which all that knew her are faithful witnesses.  Truly in her was fulfilled the promise, "Her children shall rise up and call her blessed."  Her interest was deep and helpful in the church of her choice.  At the public and social services she was a devoted and regular attendant.  The prayer meeting and communion as well as all other services were to her precious means of grace.  This good woman, neighbor, Christian friend, will never be forgotten by the people of this place and the members of the church altho her accustomed seat is vacant.  Her memory is a blessed inspiration to all.  Neighbors and friends extend their deepest and heartfelt sympathy to Mr. Pierce in his deep affliction.  Mrs. Pierce is survived by her husband, one son, Harry Moore, of Grand Rapids, Mich., and two brothers.  The funeral services were held in the M.E. church, Saturday, May 18, 1907, at 10:30, her pastor, Rev. F.A. Matteson, conducting th eservice.  The floral tribute by the church and many friends and relatives, was beautiful.  Her body now rests waiting the resurrection in the cemetery at Afton [Chenango Co., NY].  Our loss is her eternal gain.  [Bainbridge Republican, May 23, 1907]

Sidney [Delaware Co., NY]:  The body of an unknown man was discovered lying upon the Delaware & Hudson railroad track at the west end of the Sidney yards by one of the crew of a freight train passing at about daylight Monday morning.  Dr. McKinnon and Undertaker R.E. Carr were summoned and the body after an examination was removed to the undertaking establishment of Carr & Co., Sidney, and the Coroner of Franklin was summoned.  The man was evidently run over by a train as one foot was severed at the ankle, otherwise the body was not greatly mutilated.  the features were of a man between 55 and 60 years of age.  There were no papers or other means of identifying the body.  Railroad men on the O.&W. report that they have seen him several times about the tracks, and near Sidney Centre on Saturday he was discovered walking upon the tracks in front of a train and it was necessary to slow down the train and blow the whistle repeatedly before he would leave the tracks.  Others report that the dead man had been seen in the neighborhood of Guilford recently and on Sunday morning he was seen to come from the woods near the Copley farm between Sidney and Bainbridge and immediately upon seeing people about, he returned up the hills and was seen again Sunday several times during the day near the old Fair grounds, wandering about only partly clothed.  It is believed that the man was demented and was nearly, if not quite, dead from exhaustion when run over by the train, as the doctors stated that he had bled only a very little from the wound.  The Coroner ordered the body buried in Prospect Hill cemetery in Sidney, Tuesday.  Later the body was identified as that of Joseph Emerson, who has been recently employed at the farm of a man named Pickerson near Bainbridge.  Emerson has been considered as unbalanced for  some time past, and has recently been under the delusion that some one was chasing him.  [Bainbridge Republican, May 23, 1907]

The funeral of the late Erastus C. Delavan was held Sunday afternoon from Trinity Memorial church [Binghamton, Broome Co.,  NY] and in many respects [was] the largest funeral held in Binghamton in many years.  The gathering of friends of the deceased filled the church and scores stood in front of the church during the services.  The Masonic fraternity of which Mr. Delavan was an honored member was represented by delegations from all the Binghamton branches of the order and by representatives from the State Commandery, Knights Templar....Erastus C. Delavan, one of the most popular business men of this city, who had been suffering from congestion of the brain since last Friday, died at his home, 64 Hawley street, at 11:35 o'clock Thursday a.m.  Mr. Delavan was stricken suddenly and had steadily grown weaker, although his recovery was not despaired of until Thursday morning, when his strength began to fail, and he sank rapidly until his death.  Mr. Delavan was born in Guilford, Chenango county, on Sept. 4, 1855. and began his career as clerk in the store of Clark & Co., Oxford.  He remained in their employ for nine years, later having charge of the storage and forwarding business.  Afterward he lived three years in Norwich, being employed as a clerk for Chapman & Co., general dry goods dealers.  On Jan. 1, 1882, he came to Binghamton and for the next three years was floor walker in the store of the Sisson Brothers Welden Co.  He then became a partner with T.P. Calkin in the firm of Calkin & Delavan, hatters, furriers and dealers in men's furnishings goods.  J.P.E. Clark was at one time associated with him in this business and he and Mr. Clark were later lessees of the Opera house.  In January, 1888, Mr. Delavan succeeded to that sole proprietorship, and continued in business until 1896, at which time he sold out and entered the service of the Travelers' Insurance Company of Hartford, Conn., in the capacity of local agent.  Up to about four years ago Mr. Delavan, was assistant State agent for the Travelers' Company, and during the last four years he had been the manager for the whole of the Southern portion of New York state.  For more than 20 years Mr. Delavan has been a factor in the business history of Binghamton.  Politically he was a stalwart Republican and had many times been pressed to accept municipal office, which he generally declined to do.  Mr. Delavan was at one time, however, a member of the Police Commission, and his mature judgment was always sought by his fellow commissioners.  Mrs. Delavan married Miss Emma M. Fuller, the daughter of the late Joel Fuller, of Binghamton, in 1895--Binghamton Press.  [Bainbridge Republican,, May 23, 1907]

Mrs. Minnie Belle Greek, aged nineteen, wife of Ervin Greek, died at 6 o'clock Monday night at her home No. 215 Harrison street, Lestershire.  She is survived by her husband and infant child, father and sister, the last two of Walton.  The funeral was held Wednesday at 2 o'clock and burial was in Glenwood [Afton, Chenango Co., NY].  The husband Ervin Greek is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Irving Greek, who were residents of Bainbridge until two years ago.  [Bainbridge Republican, May 30, 1907]

Mrs. Edith Moore, wife of William H. Moore, former residents of this place [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], passed away at her home in Meridale, N.Y., on Sunday afternoon last.  Her death was caused by acute Bright's disease.  She is survived by her husband and three children.  Mrs. Moore is well known in this place, her husband being an adopted son of Mrs. Helen Moore, of South Pearl street. The funeral was held Wednesday of this week at the house and burial was at Oneonta.  Bainbridge friends extend sympathy to the bereaved family.  [Bainbridge Republican, May 30, 1907]

 

Miscellaneous, Odd Epitaphs

Some Odd Epitaphs

Queer Inscriptions Found on Tombstones

 

A symposium of queer epitaphs, contributed by noted women of the United States, was an interesting feature of the annual meeting of a local literary club of Bucyrus, O.  The idea was suggested by a quaint inscription on a tombstone in a local cemetery, and it was determined that each member of the club should secure from some noted woman of the country the most unique epitaph that had ever come under her notice.  The result was interesting in the extreme.  The following are among those secured:

 

Mrs. Cleveland submits an epitaph which is said to be carved upon a stone in the nature of a matrimonial advertisement.  Here is the inscription: 

"Sacred to the memory of James  H. Random,

who died Aug. 6, 1800. 

His widow, who mourns as one who can be comforted,

aged only 24 and possessing every qualification

of a good wife, lives in this village."

 

Mrs. Sherman confines herself to her own locality and sends an inscription which can be found in an old Mansfield cemetery.  It is as follows: 

"Under this sod and under these trees

Lieth the pod of Solomon Pease.

He is not in this hole, but only his pod.

He has shelled out his soul and went up to his God."

 

Mrs. Brice gives two, which properly go together.  The first was the inscription over the remains of the first wife of a Californian and reads:

"The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away,

Blessed be the name of the Lord"

 

The grave of a second wife was embellished with the other inscription, equally appropriate:

"I called upon the Lord, and he heard me and

delivered me out of all my troubles."

 

Mrs. Harrison gives this quotation from a western monument: 

"This yere is sakrd to the mem'ry

of Bill Henry Shraken,

who come to his death by bein shot

with a Colts revolvers--one of the old kind,

brass mounted, and of such is the kingdom of hevin."

 

Mrs. Foraker thinks the accompanying is about as curious as any she has ever heard:

"Here lie I and my two daughters,

Brought here by drinking sedlitz waters.

If we had stuck to Epsom salts,

We wouldn't be laying in these here vaults."

 

This rather peculiar selection comes from a Massachusetts cemetery and is furnished by Mrs. Grant:

"Here lies the best of slaves now turning into dust.

Caesar, the Ethiopian, craves a place among the just.

His faithful soul has fled by realms of heavenly light.

And by the blood that Jesus shed is changed from black to white.

January he quitted the stage

In the 77th year of his age

1780"

 

Mrs. McKinley quotes the only oration over the remains of Tom Paine, the infidel, written by himself and delivered at his request:

"Poor Tom Paine, here he lies;

Nobody laughs, and nobody cries

Where his soul is and how it fares

Nobody knows, and nobody cares."

 

Mrs. Alger contributes a curiosity, but fails to say whether it is to be found in a Michigan burying ground or some place more remote:

"Here, fast asleep and full six feet deep

And seventy summers ripe,

George Thomas lies and hopes to rise

And smoke another pipe."

 

The following, however, does come from a Michigan cemetery at La Pointe and is furnished by Mrs. Stevenson: 

"This stone was erected

to the memory of J-- D--,

who was shot as a mark of

esteem by his surviving relatives."

 

Mrs. Reed quotes the lines of Shakespeare engraved on the stone above his remains:

"Good friend, for Jesus' sake, forbear

To dig the dust inclosed here.

Blest be the man who spares these stones

And cursed be the man that moves my bones!"

 

Mrs. Bryan's contribution comes from a little graveyard near Pittsfield, Mass.:

"When you, my friends, are passing by,

And this informs you where I lie,

Remember you ere long must have,

Like me, a mansion in the grave.

Also three infants, two sons and a daughter"

 

Chicago is represented by Mrs. Potter Palmer, whose selection is as follows:

"Here lies, returned to clay,

Miss Arabella Young,

Who, on the 1st of May,

Began to hold her tongue"

 

Mrs. Hanna quotes from a tomb in Pennsylvania. The inscription reads:

"Sacred to the memory of Charley and Varley,

Sons of loving parents who died in infancy."

 

In addition to the above there were a number of others which came in without signatures attached.  Among the latter were the following:  The writer has seen with her own eyes the following inscription, which appears on a stone in a little cemetery in Cornwall, England:

"Here lies entoomed one Roger Morton,

Whose sudden death was early brought on.

Trying one day his corns to mow off,

The razor slipped and cut his toe off.

The toe, or what it grew to,

The inflammation quickly flew to.

The parts they took to mortifying,

And poor, dear Roger took to dyeing."

 





 

 







 



 



Marriages (October 30)

Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]:  George Lorrimer and Miss Bertha Carkhuff were married at the home of the bride's parents near Oxford, Monday, Dec. 24, by Rev. C.C. Vrooman.  Mr. Lorrimer is the  highway commissioner of the town of Guilford.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 3, 1907]

 

Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]:  Linn Garrison, of this place, and Ada Brisee, of Centre Village, were married Wednesday, Dec. 19th.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 3, 1907]

 

Sidney [Delaware Co., NY]:  J.E. Potter and Maggie I. Figger were married on Christmas day at the home of Mr. and Mrs. J.G. MacFarland, near this village, by Rev. A. Lincoln Shear, pastor of the Congregational church.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 3, 1907]

 

Mr. and Mrs. Ensign Nichols, formerly of this place [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], announce the marriage of their daughter, Isaloo Clare, to Mr. Floyd B. Clement, which occurred on Wednesday, Dec. 26, 1906, at the parents' home in Sherburne.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 3, 1907]

 

Afton [Chenango Co., NY]:  Two couples were married at the M.E. parsonage Dec. 23, Rev. I.J. Smith officiating.  Laverne Tiffany and Miss Mabel A. Terry and Carleton Tallmadge and Miss Helen E. Terry.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 3, 1907]

 

The marriage of Miss Hallie A. Cartledge and Orlando F.  Howland, both of this village, occurred yesterday at high noon at the home of the bride's aunt, Mrs. George Williams, of Kirby street, Rev. G.E. VanWoert performing the nuptial rite.  The bride and groom attended by the groom's brother, Erwin Howland, and wife, entered the parlor to the strains of the wedding march, played by Miss Lena Williams, and took their places under an artistically arranged wedding bell which was suspended within an arch of evergreens decorated with apple blossoms.  The ushers were the little girls, Bessie Gibson and Norma Cartledge.  The bride was prettily attired in a gown of golden brown mousselaine trimmed with Irish point lace, and carried a bouquet of roses.  The groom wore the accustomed black.  At the close of the ceremony the guests were conducted to the dining room which was elaborately trimmed with evergreens and apple blossoms and a wedding breakfast of four courses was served by Caterer Toby, the young ladies, the Misses Pearl Davis and Lena Williams, assisting in waiting upon the company.  Mr. and Mrs. Howland left their friends early to begin their bridal trip, and upon their return will reside in Hancock.  The bride has many friends who wish her unceasing happiness and congratulate the husband that he has attained so fair a wife. The wedding presents were many. [Bainbridge Republican, June 6, 1907] 

 

 

Obituaries (October 30)

Dr. Maynard and wife and the wife of Ira Carington of Lansingville [Tompkins Co., NY], were drowned while crossing the creek at what is known as "Binnacle's Bridge," on Thursday night of last week.  They had been attending the donation of Rev. W.H. Smith, at Hamden, and started to return home at about 11 o'clock in the evening, and it is supposed that on attempting to cross the bridge which was entirely covered with water, they got below it, and the water being swift, they were carried down with the stream.  The bodies of the doctor and his wife were bound on Friday, about a mile below the bridge.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 25, 1873]

About 2 o'clock Monday morning, Cyrus Dimmick, aged some 21 years, son of Francis K. Dimmock, Esq., of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], died suddenly under the following circumstances:  Near 7 o'clock the previous evening, feeling somewhat indisposed and being nervous and restless, he took a dose of Hydrate of Chloral and retired for the night.  Between 11 and 12 his father went to his room and found his son unconscious, in a deep stupor, and stertorous breathing, apparently in a dying condition.  Medical assistance was promptly called but to no purpose, and he died as above stated.  He was not only an only son, but an only child, and is spoken of as possessing excellent talent, and many noble qualities of head and heart.--Chenango Union [Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 8, 1873]

On Saturday, at about eleven o'clock, Henry Nightingale, of McDonough [Chenango Co.,  NY] went out to a barn near his house to do his chores.  Not coming home, late in the forenoon his family sent out to see what the mater was, when he was found insensible, his extremities considerably frozen.  He was at once removed to the house and died in a few moments.  He was about 75 years of age, and it is supposed he had a fit which incapacitated him from returning to the house.  He had resided in McDonough for many years and enjoyed the confidence and respect of all who knew him.  [Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 9, 1973]

Died--At his residence in Bainbridge, Feb. 10th, Ansel Evans, aged 83 years.  Mr. Evans was a son of Major Henry Evans who came from Guilford, Vt., in 1794, and commenced improvements on lot No. 80 in Bainbridge [Chenango Co.,  NY].  Some three or four years later he removed his family from Guilford to this place, and a majority of his children have resided here.  The descendants are numerous, and a notice of them would constitute, in great measure, the history of Bainbridge.  The deceased ever maintained the character of a good citizen and the respect of a community at large.  For many years he has been a communicant of St. Peter's Church, Bainbridge, and has by his acts illustrated the Christian life. In his death we sustain the loss.  He the greatest gain.  [Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 15, 1873]

Mr. Allen Burlingame of Richfield Springs [Otsego Co., NY] died suddenly on Monday last.  He left the house after dinner and started for his shop as usual.  He stopped at Keller's Hotel and sat down in a chair while talking to a man.  In a few moments it was noticed that he was breathing hard, and Mr. Keller went up to him when he was found to be rapidly sinking.  He was immediately carried to the door, but did not breathe but a few times after getting into the air.  [Bainbridge Republican, March 1, 1873]

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th, Mr. Wallace F. Potter, aged 29 years.  The deceased served his country faithfully for three years during the rebellion, and received an honorable discharge at the end of the war.  He was a corporal in Co. H, of the brave 114th Reg. N.Y.V., and was wounded in his hand at the memorable battle of Cedar Creek, when victory perched on the banner of Phil. Sheridan.  [Bainbridge Republican, March 1, 1873]

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the evening of the 21st. ult., of consumption, Mrs. Sarah Wells, daughter of Mrs. Samuel Palmer and widow of the late Addison Wells, aged 40 years.  [Bainbridge Republican, March 1, 1873]

In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 20th, of consumption, Miss Adelia Hyde, youngest daughter of Elijah Hyde, Esq., aged 19 years.  [Bainbridge Republican, March 1, 1873]

In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th ult., Mr. Almon Blackman, aged 57 years.  [Bainbridge Republican, March 1, 1873]



 

Miscellaneous, The Story of "Charlotte"

The Story of "Charlotte"

A Pathetic and Beautiful Song sung Fifty Years Ago

Bainbridge Republican, July 18, 1907

 

Through the courtesy of our townsman, Mr. Charles R. Briggs, we are able to give the pathetic story of "Young Charlotte" as written and sung over fifty years ago.  At that time this song was very popular.  It was written from facts and the story is true.  The older people remember it well.  The copy which we are permitted to use was made May 1st, 1856, by Mr. Harvey Wright for Mr. Charles R. Briggs' aunt, May L. Briggs, who resided in Bloomville, Delaware county, and was a beautiful singer.  The Republican is endeavoring to ascertain who the real Charlotte was and where the scene of the incident is located.  The story is as follows:

 

Young Charlotte lived by the mountain side,

In a wild and lonely spot.

No dwellings there for three miles round,

Except her father's cot.

 

And yet on many a winter's night,

Young swains they gathered there.

Her father kept a social board,

And she was very fair.

 

Her father loved to see her dressed

As gay as a city belle,

For she was the only child he had,

He loved his daughter well.

 

T'was New Year's eve, the sun was down;  

Why beamed her restless eye?

Then she to the frozen windows went

To see the sleighs pass by.

 

How restless beamed her wandering eye,

When his well known voice she heard;

Then dashing up to the cottage door,

Young Charles' sleigh appeared.

 

At a village inn, fifteen miles off,

There's a merry ball to night;

But the air is freezing cold as death,

Yet her heart is warm and light.

 

Her mother cried, "Oh daughter, dear!

This blanket round you fold,

For it's a dreadful night abroad,

You'll catch your death a cold."

 

"Oh no! Oh no!" Young Charlotte,

And laughed like a gypsie queen,

"To ride in a blanket muffled up,

I never could be seen."

 

My silken cloak is enough for me,

You know it's lined throughout;

Besides I have a satin shawl,

To tie my neck about."

 

Her bonnet and her shawl was on,

She jumped into the sleigh,

And away they rode to the mountainside,

And o'er the hills away.

 

There's music in the sound of bells,

As o'er the hills they go,

What screaking does the runners make

As they leave the drifting snow.

 

And away they rode and silently,

'Till five long miles they passed.

At length Charles in frozen words

The silence broke at last.

 

"Such a night I never knew,

The reins I scarce can hold."

Then Charlotte said, in these few words,

"I am exceeding cold."

 

"How fast," said Charles, "the frozen ice

Is gathering on my brow."

When Charlotte said in feeble voice,

"I'm growing warmer now."

 

And away they rode by the mountainside,

And in the calm starlight,

Until at length the village inn

And the ball room was in sight.

 

They rode to the door and Charles jumped out,

He gave his hand to her.

"Why sit there like a monument,

That hath no power to stir"

 

He asked her once, he asked her twice,

But still she never stirred;

He asked  her for her hand again,

But still she never moved.

 

He took her hand in his, "Oh God!"

T'was cold and hard as stone.

He tore her mantle from her breast,

While the bright stars on her shone.

 

Then quickly to the lightened hall,

Her lifeless corpse he bore,

Young Charlotte was a lifeless corpse,

And never spoke no more.

 

T'was there he sat down by her side,

While the bitter tears did flow,

Said he, "My young and blooming bride,

You never more shall know.

 

He twined his arms around her neck,

And kissed her marble brow.

And his thoughts went back to where she said,

"I'm growing warmer now."

__________________________________________________________________________________

 

W.K. McNeil writes on the ballad "Schaladi" in his Southern Folk Ballads, vol. II (August House, 1998, pp. 99-100) as follows:

....There has been much discussion about the authorship of this ballad, .... Most authorities, however, now agree that it was the work of Seba Smith (1792-1868), a Maine native.   Smith read a story published in 1831 about a Charlotte J--who was found dead in her "bower," all dressed for a ball. That was the source for the heroine's name but the incident that inspired the song was a story that appeared in the February 8, 1840, issue of the New York Observer. Titled "A Corpse Going to a Ball," the article concerned an unnamed young lady who froze to death on January 1, 1840, while on her way to a dance. Smith's ballad, also titled "A Corpse Going to a Ball," appeared in the December 28, 1843, issue of The Rover. From there it went on to widespread popularity.

___________________________________________________________________________________

 

A Corpse Going to a Ball

Long-Islander, Huntington, NY

Feb. 14, 1840

 

You recollect the first day of January, 1840.  It was a bitter cold day.  It was cold as far south as the city of New York, and up here in the country where I am writing it was terrible severe.  You could not ride far against the wind without being exposed to freezing.  I have heard of two cases of death by cold on that day in this region, and of another case in which the sufferer was saved by great exertion, when on the point of perishing.  The night of that day was to be observed, as is usual here, by a New Year's ball.  Invitations had been extended for many miles around, and a great gathering of the young and gay, and thoughtless was expected.  Extensive preparations had been made for an evening of merriment and glee, and merry  hearts beat quickly in anticipation of pleasures of the scene.  None was happier in the thought of coming joy than Miss ----, who took her seat in the sleigh by the side of her partner for the evening, and set out for a ride of some twenty miles to join the dance.  She was young and gay, and her charms of youth and beauty never were lovelier than when dressed for that New Year's ball.  Of course too thinly clad for the season and especially for that dreadful day, she had not gone far before she complained of being cold, very cold; but their anxiety to reach the end of their ride in time to be present at the opening of the dance, induced them to hurry onward without stopping by the way.  Not long after this complaining, she said that she felt perfectly comfortable, was now quite warm and that there was no necessity of delay on her account.  They reached, at length, the house where the company were gathering; the young man leaped from the sleigh, and extended his hand to assist her out, but she did not offer hers;  he spoke to her, but she answered not;  she was dead--stone dead--frozen stiff--a corpse on the way to a ball--Correspondent of the New York Observer.

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Obituaries (October 29)

On Saturday afternoon at 3:15 o'clock, occurred the death of Mrs. Elizabeth A. Bingham, widow of the late George R. Salisbury, at the home of her sister, Mrs. E.M. Warren, of North Main street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].  Her death was due to consumption from which she had suffered for ten years, experiencing in that time all the changes of that delusive disease, being joyous at one phase that she was to be restored to health, and then reduced to gloom that her recovery was uncertain.  And so the years passed on, until within the past fifteen months, there was a radical and acute form in the disease which convinced the sufferer that the end was not far away.  Mrs. Salisbury was 70 years old.  Her native place was Greene, N.Y., her husband coming with his family to Bainbridge to reside in 1868.  After his death which took place a number of years ago, the wife continued to reside with her only son Howard, at their home on East Main street.  Then came, in the spring of 1900, an overwhelming sorrow to Mrs. Salisbury, the death by accident of the son, the one to whom she clung as the only joy of her advanced years.  But the widowed wife and childless mother after the first great shock, bore up bravely under her masterful grief showing a marvelous strength of character developed in her clinging nature.  Mrs. Salisbury was a most estimable woman.  By her long residence in Bainbridge and her sweet womanly qualities she had become endeared to very many. Though unable thro' failing health, to appear prominently of late in social ways, she was interested in the life of her friends, and with cheering words and suggestive schemes could assist in a quiet way to carry out pleasant projects.  That was very often the case in reference to church matters.  She was a devoted member of the Presbyterian church and loved it beyond expression, yet latterly was unable to be present at its services.  Her mind dwelt upon it however and she was zealous to aid in its benefit.  The benign influence of this Christian woman in the church was materially and will be lastingly felt.  Death having left Mrs. Salisbury alone in her home, and her sister, Mrs. Warren, being comparatively alone in her home, it was thought best for the two sisters to join companionship in the latter's home on North Main street, where the deceased received the most considerate care and attention that sisterly solicitude and affection could contribute.  the funeral of Mrs. Salisbury was held at Mrs. Warren's home at two o'clock Wednesday afternoon, Rev. W.A. Carrington officiating.  Beautiful selections of hymns were sung by the quartette.  Interment was made in St. Peter's churchyard [Bainbridge, NY].  The bearers were Fred White, J.M. Roberts, Dormer Evans, George Smith, F.Y. Humphrey, Wm. H Mosher.  The affection of many friends of the deceased was made manifest by the quantity of flowers resting upon the casket.  Two sisters survive, who have the sympathy of a host of friends, Mrs. R.J. Converse, of Springfield, Mass., and Mrs.. E.M. Warren, of this place.  [Bainbridge Republican, April 18, 1907]

 

Mrs. Francis West, whose home was on Main street, Bainbridge [Chenango Co.,  NY], died Monday morning at the home  of her daughter, Mrs. William Bennett, Rochester, complications of grip and heart trouble with a feeble constitution, being the cause.  Her remains were brought to her residence in this village, Tuesday evening, accompanied by her three children, Mrs. William Bennett, Rochester, Mrs. Charles J. Clark, Utica, and son, Francis West, of this village, who had been with his mother through the winter.  Funeral services were held at the home Wednesday noon conducted by the Rev. W.A. Carrington, when the body was taken by train to Waymart, Pa., to be interred beside her husband... [Bainbridge Republican, Apr. 25, 1907]

 

The gentle spirit of Mrs. Francis West passed from its frail tenement to the joys of a brighter world, on Monday morning, April 22, 1907, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. William Bennett, Rochester.  Mrs. West's home was in Bainbridge, N.Y., where she had resided for more than a quarter of a century.  Last fall she went with her only son, Francis R. West, to Rochester to pass the winter in the family circle of Mrs. Bennett.  The days and the months glided along peacefully and pleasantly, Mrs. West with calm serenity enjoying every phase of the fleeting time.  Latterly her frail constitution began to give way to feebleness and she became a prey to the prevailing epidemic, grippe, which with weakened heart action made such inroads as to cause death.  Mrs. West whose maiden name was Anna M. Kimble, was born March 4, 1843, and was married to Francis West October 1st, 1863.  Mr. West brought his family to Bainbridge to reside in 1883, coming from Honesdale, Pa.  He had become a licensed preacher of the Baptist denomination in early life but is health was not strong enough to withstand the demands of the ministry, and so became a druggist, which business he followed in Bainbridge for seventeen years, and then retired on account of ill health.  Mr. West often filled the pulpit of the local Baptist church and his sermons were rare expositions of scriptural truths and intellectual thought.  His death occurred in November 1905, his wife remaining to continue the same devotion to their beloved church.  In the death of Mrs. Francis West a life of practical Godliness, of exemplary Christian service, and latterly of wonderfully brave endurance came to an end.  The loving mother, who for many years was a helper and a counselor, the staunch, loyal friend with her frank cordiality, her clear insight, her sweet spirit of love, has passed form the sight of loved ones, but not from their love or memory.  Her life presented to those who came into her presence, the highest type of womanhood.  In her life was a "holy of holies," best realized by an expression she uttered in the presence of the writer at the time of her husband's death:  "I am viewing the action of the present with its relation to eternity."  Of the inner consciousness of her life, which was one of faith and prayer, only God knew; but the sweetness and beauty thereof influenced all her actions.  She faced her life with an undying reality, and the future held naught but blissful anticipation for her.  As we journey along life's road we pause again and again to bid farewell, one by one from love's shining circle, the gems dropping away until the King of Terrors loses  his power to affright us, and the increasing company on the farther shore make us first willing, then anxious to join them.  It is God's way, "and when through patient toil we reach the land where tired feet with sandals loosed may rest; when we shall clearly know and understand, I think we'll say God's way is always best."---R.S.O.  [Bianbridge Republican, May 2, 1907] 

 

Sophia, wife of C.M. Homes, died April 23, of pneumonia at her home in the town of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 60 years.  The funeral was held on Thursday afternoon of last week at her late home the Rev. P.M. Pascoe, officiating.  The body was brought to Bainbridge and interred in the St. Peter's churchyard, Rev. G.E. VanWoert conducting the burial service.  The deceased is survived by one sister, wife of the late Luman Clark of Guilford, and two brothers.  She and her sister, Mrs. Clark, conducted a milliner shop in the Clark block about twenty years ago, their maiden names being the Misses Bruler.  [Bainbridge Republican, May 2, 1907]

 

The remains of Bradley J. Smith, a former resident of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], were brought to this place from Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], by car Saturday evening and taken to his sister's home, that of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Stever, East Side.  Mr. Smith died at the Eagle hotel, Norwich, on Friday of diabetes, after an illness of but a few days.  He had resided in Norwich for the past year and was engaged in the life insurance business.  Some fifteen years ago he had conducted a clothing store in Bainbridge, located in the Danforth block.  His brother, Herbert Smith, of Binghamton, was associated with him.  Mr. Smith was 45 years of age.  The funeral took place at the Stever home Monday afternoon at 1 o'clock.  Rev. W.A. Carrington officiating, and burial was made in Green Lawn cemetery [Bainbridge, NY]. The singers were Daniel Banner and E.S. Gilbert, and the bearers were C.L. Stever, Herbert Smith, Dr. Marshall Smith and Perry Humphrey.  He is survived by the sisters, Mrs. Stever and Mrs. Marshall Smith, and brother Herbert Smith.  The relatives were all present at the funeral.  [Bainbridge Republican, May 2, 1907]

 

Mrs. Cora B. Hubbard died April 26, 1907, at her home in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 26 years.  Bright's disease was the cause of her death.  On February 7, 1906, she became the wife of Thomas E. Hubbard.  The funeral was held at the home on Sunday afternoon, Rev. R.M. Pascoe officiating., and burial was at Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].  The deceased is survived by her husband and mother, Mrs. Charles Terry, and three brothers, George, Fred, and Clinton Burlison, of Bainbridge, and two sisters, Mrs. John Green, of Guilford, and Mrs. Lillian Bartholomew, of St. Lawrence county.  [Bainbridge Republican, May 2, 1907]

 

Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]:  The funeral of Frederick Young, who died suddenly Monday morning, of last week, was held at the Methodist church Wednesday, April 24, at 2 o'clock, Rev. R.M. Pascoe officiating.  Mr. Young was born in Germany May 24, 1830, but had been a resident of this town for many years.  He was a member of Company F of the 89th New York Regiment, and belonged to the famous Dickinson Guards.  The services were military in character, the casket being draped with the flag, and the old soldiers in town attended in a body.  The bearers were Lieutenant George Baldwin, Rufus C. Smith, James Alcott of the 89th New York Regiment, W.O. Nash of the 114th, Alanson Ferris of the 44th New York and James H. Buckley of the 23d New Jersey.  The music was rendered by a quartet consisting of Arthur M. Turner, Mrs. R.M. Pascoe, Miss Florence Ensworth and Irvin L. Bradley; Miss Jessie Bradley, organist.  The interment took place in the Guilford cemetery.  [Bainbridge Republican, May 2, 1907]

 

 

 

 

Miscellaneous, Bainbridge Emergency Squad of 1967

Members of Bainbridge Emergency Squad

1967

 

Members of Bainbridge Emergency Squad in 1967 included (l-r) John Delello, Donald Johnson, Milford Dyer, Paul Niles, George Mulkins, Donald Pixley, James Bartz, and Donald Warner.  Missing from the photo is Bruce Gorton.

 



Marriages (October 28)

Married, at Gaines, N .Y., Nov. 7, 1906, by Rev. C.H. Burroughs, Mr. Walter Norton, of Columbus [Chenango Co., NY], and Miss Minnie Westmorland, of Dalton, N.C.  The groom is a successful young farmer living on the old homestead.  The bride has made many friends in her stay of several years with the family of Mr. Elias Tuttle, of Columbus.  Both are well known and highly esteemed by a large circle of friends.  They stopped between trains for the wedding ceremony and supper, going on to Niagara Falls and other places of interest.  The good wishes of all go with them--Sherburne News. The groom is a nephew of Postmaster Charles G. Norton, of this village.  [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 29, 1906]

 

Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]:  A wedding took place at Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] Thursday afternoon at the home of  Mrs. Edith Sharpe, the bride being her sister, Miss May Sherwood and the groom Dr. A.H. Evans, both of this place.  [Bainbridge Republican, Dec. 27, 1906]

 

Afton [Chenango Co., NY]:  Miss Hazel J. Hall and J. Hollister Barre were married at the home of the bride's parents, South Main street, Monday, Dec. 17th, 1906, the Rev. J.F. Shaw, performing the ceremony.  [Bainbridge Republican, Dec. 20, 1906]

 

Sidney [Delaware Co., NY]:  Melvin T. Lown and Clarissa M. Spencer, both of Sidney, were married at Unadilla, Nov. 15 by the Rev. A.E. Holmes, pastor of the Baptist church.  [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 29, 1906]

 

Sidney [Delaware Co.,  NY]:  Foster D. McIntyre, of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] and Flora H. Benedict, of Walton [Delaware Co., NY], formerly of Sidney, were married Nov. 21 at Walton by the Rev. E.F.Charles.  [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 29, 1906]

 

Sidney [Delaware Co., NY]:  Mr. Hiram Moore and Miss Myra Seeley, of this place, were married recently at Mt. Upton, by Rev. B.P. Ripley.  Mr. Moore will reside here, and work in the new silk mill.  [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 22, 1906]

 

Sidney [Delaware Co., NY]:  George Kinch, son of Mr. and Mrs. Porter Kinch, of this village, and Miss Bessie A. Burdick, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Burdick, were united in marriage on Thursday evening, Nov. 15, at the home of the bride by Rev. J.H. Little, pastor of the M.E. church.  [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 22, 1906]

 

We understand the announcement of the engagement of Joseph E. Packard, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], and Miss Jane Guild, of Cortland, a popular society woman of that place, was made this week.  The wedding is to occur soon when Mr. Packard will take up his residence in Binghamton where he has purchased a handsome home.  Mr. Packard was a former resident of Bainbridge as was also his last wife, whose maiden name was Miss Sopha Bixby.  [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 22, 1906]