Miscellaneous, Train off track at Bainbridge, 1873

Off the Track

Bainbridge Republican, July 18, 1873

 

Last Monday evening, as the freight train going west left this station [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], the engine and a number of cars ran off the track, through the unpardonable negligence of a brakeman on a coal train which had just passed, who left the switch open.  The engine ran some distance on the ties, and finally left the road bed, and plowed its way into a slight embankment for several feet.  During the night the freight cars and tender were put on the track in proper shape, and backed up on the switch, and the track laid around the unfortunate engine, so that trains were not greatly delayed.  Through the aid of a large force of men, the engine was placed on a track and started to Oneonta for repairs about noon on the following day.  The employees of the train escaped unhurt. The name of the engine was "Tekaharawa," a powerful six-driver, recently placed upon the road.  The damage done to this was slight, when we consider the position it was in.  Superintendent Morse, of Oneonta, Master Mechanic Jones, General Trackmaster Dorsey, and conductor Taber were among the officials at the wreck.  

Marriages (February 8)

The two notable society events of the week, in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], have been the receptions given in honor of Mr.and Mrs. Alfred M. Welch, who were united in marriage August 28th, of this year.  The first of the parties was at the home of the bride's mother, Mrs. B.P. VanHorne, and was held on the evening of Nov. 3rd.  There had been issued a large number of invitations to the friends of the high contracting parties and of the respective families, and early in the evening the guests began to make their appearance, eager to extend their congratulations to the happy couple and express wishes for their prosperity in the voyage of life on which they had embarked together.  Mrs. VanHorne entertained the company in a highly pleasing manner, and the brilliant assemblage, at a late hour, retired much delighted with the evening's enjoyments.  The absence from town of the Republican's society editor, prevented his presence, much to his regret.

 

The second event was last evening, Thursday, November 10th at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. A.L. Welch, and will long be remembered by the nearly 100 guests who were present.  The bride and groom, in all the attractiveness of the new relationship toward each other, and which also comes with health, happiness and prosperity, received the company and its congratulations with so much of grace and dignity that they won golden opinions for themselves in the estimation of those present.  The host, Mr. A.L. Welch, moved about with the true patriarchal air, attending to the wishes of every guest, so that enjoyment might be full, and the hostess, Mrs. A.L. Welch, was none the less assiduous in her attentions to secure the comfort of all.  The refreshments served were all that could be desired and signs were not wanting that they had marked attention.  The guests, on leaving, expressed their abounding delight at having spent the evening under such attractive auspices, and it was said the only "blue" thing about the whole affair was the atmosphere of an upper room where, at one time, some 30 or 40 smokers did congregate, and by puffing on cigars made a dense blue. The attire of the ladies attending these receptions was a subject for remark, and added much to the general attractiveness, each lady, seemingly, making it her pride to dress and look her best in honor of the occasions.  The very best wishes of the Republican are tendered Mr. and Mrs. Alfred M. Welch, and the hope is expressed that all the joys and but few of the troubles of life may be theirs. The senior of the paper is peculiarly interested in the bride, from the fact of her being a Sunday school pupil of his in the years gone by.  Mr. Welch is well known as an enterprising, business young man, and his hosts of friends.  Again we throw the slipper.

 

DECKER-VANCOTT:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], June 14, 1893, by Rev. R.H. Stearns, Joseph A. Decker, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], and Miss Carrie Van Cott, of Guilford.

 

LEACH-BOSWORTH:  In Oxford, Dec. 29, 1886, by Rev. L.C. Hayes, A.G. Leach of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Alice C. Bosworth of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

 

Mrs. Katherine G. Burnside, formerly of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], but now teaching near Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], has been granted by Justice Abraham L. Kellogg an interlocutory judgment of divorce against her husband, John L. Burnside of East Branch.  The judgment carries alimony and costs.  Hon. Charles c. Flaesch appeared for the plaintiff and the defendant did not appear.  [Bainbridge Republican, Mar. 8, 1928]

Obituaries (February 8)

Wm. H. Douglass died at his home on the East side of the river [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] of cancer trouble, Aug. 29th, 1897.  He inherited a strong constitution from good old Scotch ancestry.  He was socially inclined and although his sufferings were acute they were not discernible to others.  About 20 years ago his physician pronounced him cured, but only three short months elapsed ere the delusion was dispelled, and he fully realized that no human aid could stay the fell destroyer.  Mr. Douglass was born in Speedville, Tompkins Co., April 29, 1826.  He was the second son of James and Flora Douglass.  The father, mother and six children are now deceased.  He was married to Miss Adeline Chandler Aug. 1, 1852, and since 1857 has made his home on the Chandler farm.  His widow, the eldest of three daughters of Lockwood and Mary Ann Chandler, and a son survive him.  Mrs. Chandler is still living at the advanced age of 94 years and retains all her faculties.  He together with his wife united with the Presbyterian church of this village under the pastorate of Rev. Pattengel and was fully prepared to fall asleep on the Lord's day.  He was a member of Susquehanna Lodge, F.&A.M.

 

Judson B. Galpin, proprietor of The Oxford Times for a period of forty-five years, and a printer for about fifty-nine years of his life, died at his residence on Clinton street [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY] at six o'clock, Monday morning February 20th, 1893, after an illness of several months.  Death came peacefully and he passed to that rest of which no man was more entitled.  Deceased was a descendant of Benjamin and Rebecca Galpin, who settled at Woodbury, Conn., in 1680.  He was born in Washington, Conn., May 15th, 1816, and was the eldest and sole survivor of a family that consisted of three brothers and one sister.  At the age of seventeen years he entered the office of the New Haven (Conn.) Palladium as an apprentice, and after a faithful service he, in January 1838, became one of the publishers of that paper, which is still in existence, in partnership with Jas. F Babcock, a leading man of his time.  The partnership continued until October 1839, when he sold his interest in the paper, but remained in the office until May 14th, 1841.  During his residence in New Haven he married Catharine Jane Brownson, a resident of Middlebury, New Haven county, Conn., on the 16th day of May 1841, the fiftieth anniversary of which was quietly observed in 1891.  The fruits of this marriage were four children--Theodore B., Henry J., Florrie G. (Walker) and Jennie H. Galpin, all of whom, with his widow, survive him.  In 1841 he removed to Greene, Chenango county, N.Y., at the solicitations of his brother-in-law, Elisha N. Hawley, who had preceded him, a journey that in those days was called "going west," and as much if not more of an undertaking than it now would be to remove to one of the Dakotas.  There he entered into partnership with Mr. Hawley in the general merchandise business.  This firm continued business some four years.  In 1845 a yearning for his chosen profession induced him to remove to Oxford, and engage upon The Times.  Later he became associate publisher with Waldo M. Potter, who survives him and is now a leading state officer of North Dakota.  On March 4th, 1848, he became sole proprietor and has had full charge of the paper ever since, up to within a few months back, when disease compelled him to lay down the stick and rule and submit the management of the paper to other hands.  During the long years of his management of The Times the paper never failed to be issued on the day set for publication, and was hardly ever behind the usual hour.  He was never absent from his post during his active management but twice on publication day.  That he was faithful to his trusts, true to his friends and conducted The Times for the best interests of the town and its welfare, the readers of the paper are his judges, and the files of the paper his monument.  In connection with newspaper work he had for years, until his sons were able to assist him, the additional burden of the book store upon his hands, which he conducted for about forty years.  At his death he was the oldest business man in town, and had noticed the change of every business place in the village.  Deceased was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and a regular attendant at its services.  He had held the office of Trustee of the church and was clerk of that board for many years.  Public spirited, he gave generously of his means to advance any industry or institution that would benefit the village, and no subscription paper was ever returned unsigned by him that was circulated to help a poor man in distress. Public office he never sought nor ever held.  Of a quiet, retiring disposition, he was never to be found away from his business, yet he had a keen appreciation of good fellowship and enjoyed the companionship of neighbors and old friends who sought him out.  No man was ever more wedded to his trade, or more willing to accommodate a patron.  He had but one fear and that was that someone might be discommoded, and in this often made more and harder work for himself.  So devoted was he to his lifelong work that the hardest task that came to him was the final surrender to disease, and retirement from active business in August last.  To his family there was that devotion that characterized him in his business.  Kind and indulgent, no expressed wish ever remained long ungratified.  He was at all times everything in that one sweet word that is expressed by Father.  The funeral services will be held from his late residence on Wednesday at 2 p.m., the Rev. Mr. Simpson officiating.  Interment in Riverview cemetery [Oxford, NY]. 

 

Seeing a notice of the death of Mrs. George Knapp of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] last week greatly saddened me, as we had been life-long friends, she being but one month older than myself.  We became acquainted in June 1822, when we were but twenty years of age.  On visiting an uncle three or four miles east of this village, I found Betsey Lyon boarding there, she being the teacher of their district school, to whom I was introduced.  We seemed to have impressed each other favorably, and soon confided to each other the history of our childhood and youth  She told me she was the oldest child of Col. Lyon, who was killed at the battle of York, Canada, in the war of 1812, by the same explosion of the mine, secretly laid by the British, that killed General Pike, our commander while taking possession of their batteries.  Betsey was then in the twelfth year of her age, and had one sister and two little brothers. Their mother was left on a small new farm, in the north east quarter of this town.  Betsey soon after came to this village, to live in the family of Joseph Fenton, one of our first prominent merchants, that she might have a chance to attend the village schools, and be getting an education.  Mr. and Mrs. Fenton were excellent people, and gave her a good chance. They were members of the Presbyterian Church, and I believe Betsey also became a member in early youth. She acquired an education sufficient to enable her to teach a common school, as soon as old enough, and thus support herself, and help her mother some.  She and I studied together, evenings, while at my uncle's to our mutual advantage, and I found her a noble, high minded young lady, and we became warmly attached friends. During her five years of school teaching, we often met socially, and always with pleasure and profit, on my part at least. The last year before her marriage she taught in this village, in a school house on West Main street, near where her daughter, Mrs. Mandeville, now lives, and boarded with Thomas Steere, who married her aunt. The art to which my life had then become devoted soon led me to the cities and enabled me to form the acquaintance of ladies of wealth and culture; but during my long life I have never seen one that I thought surpassed Betsey Lyon in all the best and highest attributes of woman.  Norwich Feb. 3, 1883 .[Chenango Union, Feb. 28, 1884]

 

Rev. Stephen H. Wood, a retired Methodist minister, died at his home in Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY] last Saturday morning, some years following his retirement from the ministry, a resident of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], and had many friends here who extend sympathy to the bereaved family.  He was a veteran of the Civil war, having enlisted when 16 years of age.  After the war he studied for the ministry and served several charges in the Wyoming conference.  He is survived by his wife, Sarah, two daughters, Mrs. Maud Geer of California. and Mrs. Susie Rose of Oneonta and a son John of Port Dickinson.  The funeral was held in Oneonta on Tuesday and burial in Binghamton.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 19, 1928]

 

George W. Payne, who died at his home in South Broad street Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] Tuesday morning March 6th was born in the town of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], April 5th, 1845, removing at the age of 18 to Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].  On August 31, 1864, he enlisted in Company A of the 114th Regiment.  At the close of the war he returned to Bainbridge and was a traveling salesman until l894 he was elected sheriff of Chenango County.  Later for fifteen years he was deputy internal revenue collector with office in Binghamton.  He was a 32nd degree Mason, an Elk and a member of the Norwich Club.  For several years he was commander of Smith Post, G.A.R. until its dissolution a few months ago.  His funeral was held Thursday afternoon at 1 o'clock with burial in Greenlawn cemetery at Bainbridge.  Mr. Payne was twice married, a daughter Mrs. Thomas Kelleher, of this village being the nearest surviving relative.  Members of S.S. Post No. 806 of American Legion accompanied the body to the cemetery upon its arrival here and conducted service at the grave.  [Bainbridge Republican, Mar. 8, 1928]

Miscellaneous Quarter Century Club - Photo

Borden Employee Quarter-Century Club

New Inductees - Probably in 1960s

 

Borden Company (Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY) employees with at least 25 years of service.

 

Seated Left to Right:  William Turnick, Peter A. Sopko, John Terzo, William Beardsley

Standing Left to Right:  Joseph Turnick, Lawrence Sherman, Nicholas Pangaro, Barton Lorimer, Walter Rose, Lynn Brayman.

 

 



Marriages (February 7)

W.M. Hastings & Son framed a few days ago the marriage certificate of Alonzo Loomis and wife given them by Noah Wilkins of Wilkins Settlement fifty years ago the 20th of January last.  Mr. Loomis was 72 the 8th of March, and his wife, Miss Mary West Loomis, will be 67 the 28th of April [1897]

 

Charles H. Clark, editor of the Bainbridge Republican [Chenango Co., NY], and Miss Bertha Westcott of Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY] were married at the home of the bride on Monday afternoon, Rev. C.C. Pierce performing the ceremony.  Only immediate relatives and friends were present--Oneonta Spy   [June 17, 1895]

 

George Alverton and Mrs. Mary Johnson launched their bark on the sea of matrimony last week.  May their lives be long and happy with troubles small [Sept. 1895]

 

IVES-SMITH:  At the residence of the bride's parents in Guilford, Feb. 3, 1892, by Rev. J.L. Jones, Otto Lewis Ives and Luella Amelia Smith, all of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

 

June 2d a very pretty wedding took place at John M. Cooper's.  The contracting parties were Charles F. LeBarron of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], and Miss Lena M. Burrell, of Otego [Otsego Co., NY].  The ceremony was performed by the Rev. E. Kilpatrick, of Bainbridge.  After congratulations by those assembled a bountiful collation was partaken of.  The bride was attired in a blue dress trimmed with white and wore chrysanthemums.  The groom wore conventional black.  Mr. LeBarron is a promising young man and is chorister in the First Christian church of Binghamton.  The bride is an estimable young lady and beloved by all who knew her.  Mr. and Mrs. LeBarron will make their future home in Binghamton.  Among the guests were the Misses Hattie Yale, Cora Hamilton and Bessie Cooper of Bainbridge, and Messrs. W.C. Hamilton, Merwin Yale and P.F. Cole.

 

Raymond W. Williams, son oj Rev. and Mrs. M.V. Williams formerly of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Lillian I. Perrine of Beaver Falls, Pa., were married in Binghamton, December 24th, 1927 at the home of Mrs. C.M. Blewer an aunt of the groom.  The ceremony was performed by the groom's father and only the immediate family were present.  The young couple will reside in Syracuse where Ray has a lucrative position as sketch artist with the Onondaga Pottery Co.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 12, 1928]

 

 

Obituaries (February 7)

Grace, the eleven year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. S.W. Fiske, died at DeRuyter [Madison Co., NY], October 21, 1894.  Mr. Fiske was a former resident of this town.  The daughter was taken with meningitis some three weeks previous, and for three dyas before her death was unconscious.  She was a general favorite in DeRuyter.

 

A gloom was cast over this community Thursday when it was learned that Hattie, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hovey, was dead.  She had only been sick a few days which makes it doubly sad.  She was only eight years old and a very bright child.  The service was held at the house Sunday, Rev. Mr. Percy of Masonville officiating, burial at Afton [Chenango Co., NY]

In her little narrow casket,

Sweetly little Hattie rests.

Snow white hands are gently folded

On her silent little breast.

Never more will pain or sorrow

Come to cloud our darling's brow,

In lands of saints immortal

She is ever happy now.

How we miss our little treasure

And so lonely seems the day.

Little dresses now are folded

Little playthings laid away.

But we hope in yon bright heaven

With our loved one yet to dwell,

God gave, He took, He will restore,

He doeth all things well.

 

Geo. W. Sexsmith, in the town of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], died Sunday of Bright's disease, aged 42 years.  He leaves a wife and six children.  The funeral was held Wednesday, burial in Yaleville cemetery.  Mr. Sexsmith was a hard working and highly respected man, and his family have the sympathy of all.  [Nov. 7, 1897]

 

On Friday Feb. 14, 1890, Mrs. Cornelia S., wife of George F. Williams, departed this life at her home in this village aged 25 years.  For some time she had been a sufferer from that dread disease consumption, which terminated her life.  The remains of a loving wife and mother were laid at rest in Green Lawn cemetery [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] Sunday, Rev. Wm. Blair officiating at the funeral.

 

Halsey Burlison, an old resident of this place, died in the insane asylum at Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], Friday.  The remains were brought to this place for interment, funeral services were held in the M.E. church at 1 o'clock p.m., Rev. E. Kilpatrick officiated.  [Feb. 26, 1897]

 

James H. VanCott, a wealthy farmer living in the south part of the town, died on February 22d, of pneumonia, at the age of 52 years.  He leaves a wife and three daughters, two of whom live at home, and one, the wife of Jas. Sands, of Vallonia Springs.  The funeral was held on Thursday, at his residence.  [1892]

 

The funeral of George W. Proutey, age 82, who died Sunday morning at 11:30 at his home No. 16 Girard Ave., Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], was held Wednesday afternoon at 2:30 at the home of his daughter Mrs. Homer Hodge, South Main street, this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] conducted by the Rev. R.B. Whitman pastor of the Baptist church.  Mrs.  H.J. Wood sang two appropriate selections.  The floral tributes were numerous and very beautiful.  Mr. Proutey was well known in Bainbridge as he usually spent a week or two each summer with relatives here and spent much time fishing.  He was a stationary engineer by trade.  He was also a member of the Park Avenue Baptist church of Binghamton.  Mr. Proutey is survived by his wife Mrs. Victoria Bennett Proutey, two daughters, Mrs. W.H. Dickinson of Nassau, Mrs. Homer Hodge this village; one son Erle L. Proutey of Binghamton; three sisters Mrs. Florence Smith of Rockdale; Mrs.. Willis Elwell, Binghamton; Mrs. Mary Prince Bainbridge. There are three brothers, Chauncey R. Proutey, Binghamton, William R. Proutey and Charles W. Proutey of this village; also several grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.  Burial was made in Greenlawn cemetery [Bainbridge, NY].  Funeral in Charge of Colwell Bros.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 19, 1928]

 

Leafie M. Bennett, wife of Dr. E.L. Bennett, died Friday afternoon at her home in Bennettsville [Chenango Co., NY].  Besides her husband, she is survived by five brothers, Robert F. Mix of Cohocton, Emery C. Mix of Wileysville, Frank B. Mix of Toledo, O., Fred G. Mix of Clay, N.Y., and Curtis Mix of Binghamton and a sister, Mrs. W.H. Cummings of Bennettsville.  The funeral was held Monday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock at her home.  The service was conducted by the international Bible Students' Association.  Burial was made in Bennettsville cemetery.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 19, 1928]

 

News was received here last week from Binghamton, N.Y. [Broome Co., NY], with deep regret, of the death of another former Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] resident, Adelbert Nelson Batterson, who crossed the Mystic Border in the above names place on Sunday, January 8th aged 75 years.  Deceased for many years was a resident of Guilford village and followed the occupation of a painter and paper hanger of which trade at that time it was claimed he was one of the best in this community.  Early in life he was married to Fredericka Schleecke, who was born in 1851 and passed on in 1920.  The fruits of this union was one daughter, Dora, who married Albert Mead, both having been born and reared in Guilford. The funeral services were held on Wednesday at the funeral parlors of J.F. Rice, 150 Main Street, Binghamton, the Rev. Edward Sherwood, rector of All Saints' Episcopal Church, officiating.  The body was brought here and laid in Sunset Hill cemetery [Guilford, NY] beside the dust of his wife and midst a bank of flowers, a mute testimony of love.  Among those who survive are one daughter, Mrs. Dora Mead, of Detroit, Mich., one granddaughter, Mrs. Felma L. Jackson and one great grandchild, Alice Jackson, of Amsterdam, Montgomery county and a brother-in-law George Schleecke, of Sidney.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 19, 1928]

Miscellaneous, Legends of Our Valley, part 4

Legends of Our Valley

Chenango Union, March 27, 1884

 

The old man, with the lines of threescore and ten, sat beside his silver haired wife before the blazing wood fire.  With them the time of labor was past, and in a serene old age they were enjoying the competence which they had acquired in their younger days.

 

"I came from Rhode Island in this country, without a dollar," said the old man.  "All I owned in the world was a fine young horse, but after the Revolutionary war closed, my father, who was an old soldier, and my two brothers, came to the 'far west.' as we then called York State, and I thought I would come too.  I lived for a while in Pittsfield, across the river from New Berlin, and one day I went to Norwich on business.  Norwich was then only a tavern and one or two log houses, and Utica was just about as large.  I started for home late, and the roads were not very plain.  They were just marked by cut trees, and by the time I had reached the top of the hill it was night.  There were plenty of wolves about, and the country was very sparsely settled.  I went on very carefully for a while.  My horse acted as though he could see, though I couldn't and he kept the road till going down a steep pitch, his feet went from under him, and there we were.  I couldn't get him up, for his feet had slipped under a big log, and I could neither lift that or him.  I felt pretty bad, and hallooed for help.  As the hours went by I thought of wolves, and thought I heard 'em.  At last I did hear a halloo, and saw a light flashing through the trees.  I can tell you that was a pretty sight to me, for I thought it must be near midnight, and had eenamost given up.  The man lived near a mile away, and had just come to his door to look out before going to bed, and heard me.  He helped me get my horse up, and he wasn't hurt a mite, and I stayed all night with him.  I can tell you I was thankful to come off so well."

 

"You don't know much about the shifts we had to make in those days," said the grandmother.  "I shall never forget how pleased I was when old Mr. Brown took supper at our house, and helped himself to the second piece of mince pie.  'It seemed so good,' he said, 'to taste a piece of apple mince pie once more.  Nobody could fool him, getting up mince pies made of pumpkin.'  I did not tell him," said the old lady, "that that very pie was made of pumpkin soaked in vinegar, instead of apples."

 

"Well those were pretty good times." said the old man, "with all the hardships.  Plenty of wild game, and after a few years fruit was plentiful enough.  We didn't mind being called out by a squad of neighbors to chase a bear, though we did have pretty close work sometime to get the better of him, and some of us had our clothes torn, and more of a hugging than we cared for before we killed him.  One of our neighbors had a pretty close call from the varmints, which I will tell you about some day."

 

One of grandfather's stories was something pleasant to look forward to, so we wait with patience till he feels inclined to tell it. 

Obituaries (February 6)

The sad news has been received from Mrs. Rena Vrooman Barrows of the death of her mother Mrs. Chauncey C. Vrooman at her home in Greene [Chenango Co., NY] on Dec. 8, 1927.  Deceased was the wife of Rev. C.C. Vrooman, who was a former pastor of the Guilford M.E. church from 1903 to 1906.  Harriet Stickels of Oneonta was married to Rev. C.C. Vrooman June 13, 1888, and lived a happy life.  The funeral service was held Saturday in the M.E. church at Greene.  Besides her husband she leaves a daughter, Rena Vrooman Barrows of Greene and a son Harold Vrooman of Buffalo.  [Bainbridge Republican, Dec. 15, 1927]

 

The many friends of Morris J Walker were saddened by the news of his untimely death last Thursday evening at 9:55, December 8th, 1927.  Mr. Walker succumbed to heart trouble, after a short illness at his home on South Main street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co.,  at the age of 50 years, and was buried Sunday in St Peter's cemetery  He is survived by his wife, mother Mrs. Flora Walker Frace of Binghamton, a brother, Will Walker of Philadelphia, and a sister, Mrs. Lewis Snitchler of Bainbridge.  Mr Walker has long been an example to Bainbridge of the will to overcome bodily afflictions.  Handicapped as he was by the loss of both legs at the hips, given in the service of his Country, he nevertheless made an inspiring, uncomplaining, dignified energetic appearance.  Carrying on his work, his many interests and making friends, he well earned the respectand admiration fo the community for good citizenship.  During the past year, even at the expense of his health, he had devoted his energy to the task fo forming a United Spanish War Veteran's Camp in Bainbridge.  A week before he died he convoked  alarge meeting in the Town Hall, of the military and civil societies at which he presided as Commander of George H Wells Camp, U.S.W.V.  Here was seen the fruits of his year's efforts for a well organized, well disciplined Camp to be of service to the Veterans and the community at large.  On Monday, Commander Walker attentended a County meeting of the American Legion, of which he had been a loyal friend to foster concerted activity between the two organizations.  At the meeting he was stricken with a heart attack, ministered to by the timely aid of the doctor andtwo Auxiliary members present.  The American Legion feel they have lost in  him a true and helpful friend.  Many paid their last respects by attending the funeral Sunday afternoon.  The Reverend Whitman read the service at the home.  Senior Vice Commander, A.B. Young, U.S.W.V. took charge of the military escort to the cemetery where the veterans of two wars buried their comrade-in-arms with full military honors.  Other camps represented were" Barber Camp Binghamton U.S.W.V., in command of Commander E.V. Slocum, and Unity Camp of Johnson City.  These camps had 27 uniform men in parade, and one firing squad.  Slater-Silvernail Post American Legion of Bainbridge, in command of Commander Partridge, with several men in uniform and firing squard wa sin the procession, and took part in the ceremonies at the grave which were in charge of George h. Wells camp U.S.W.V. of which Comrade Walker was the commander at his death.  This camp ws in command of Vice commander Young who also acted as master of ceremonies, compelte U.S.W.V.ritual at the grave.  The Bainbridge Boy Scouts also furnished a drummer and bugler.  The Scout bugler sounded "Taps" in completion of the servicesat the cemetery gate in connection with the buglar of the American Legion. Despite the very bad storm there was a good attendance at the home and grve for services which the camp greatly appreciated. commander Walker, although taps sounded for him in the prime of his life and usefulness, had lvied to fight not only the battles of his Country which he loved as soldiers do but to figut to become a useful, energetic citizen in spite of appalling physical disability; a man than whom no one could have been braver in adversity.  [Bainbridge Republican, Dec. 15, 1927]

 

The remains of Daniel H. Scott of Mt. Vernon, N.Y. were brought here on Wednesday last for burial in Greenlawn cemetery [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].  Mr. Scott was a native of Akran, Ohio, but had frequently visited here.  He is survived by his wife Mrs. Della Cook Scott.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 19, 1928]

Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]:  Patsy Parilla, seventeen, of Bainbridge, was drowned shortly after 6 o'clock Tuesday afternoon while swimming in the Susquehanna river near the bridge in this place.  The young man had entered the water with several other companions and was swimming around the bridge when he disappeared beneath the surface of the water.  His friends made a vain attempt to locate the boy's body, one of the boys managing to catch hold of him before he had gone to the bottom, but the weight of his body and strong current caused the swimmer to lose his grip and the boy was swept away.  A call to the New York state police of Troop C, at Sidney Barracks, was responded to by Capt. Daniel E. Fox and several troopers who searched for the body of the drowned boy for more than an hour before they finally recovered it with grappling hooks.  In the meantime the lad's father and brother had gone into the river in the vicinity where his body was last seen in repeated attempts to locate their son and brother.  They were finally taken away in an exhausted condition and given first aid treatment.  Doctor Danforth, acting coroner, visited the scene of the fatality and after viewing the body, said that death was due to accidental drowning.  The police say the Parilla boy was suffering from a leakage of the heart and that he had been ill most of the winter.  In the doctor's opinion, they said, the boy should not have been in the water at all, and it is probablet hat he was dead before he had been under the water many minutes.  It is doubtful they believe that artificial respiration or the use of a pulmotor, would have revived him had his body been recovered immediately.  This is said to be the first drowning in that particular part of the river ever recorded in the village.  Many boys go there to swim daily, residents day, and it has always been considered a reasonably safe place for water sports.  [Norwich Sun, July 13, 1927]

Herbert C. DeFrees, 34, a line foreman of the Adirondack Power and Light Corporation, was killed yesterday afternoon in the rear of the hollowware factory of the Oneida Community, Ltd., when a charge from a 13,500 volt line passed thru his body.  DeFrees attempted to use a 10 foot pole to turn a switch in a transformer which was equipped with a chain for carrying electricity into the ground.  The charge failed to follow the chain and DeFrees fell lifeless to the ground.  When Dr. Stephen L. Taylro, Sherrill, and Dr. Edmund L. Taylor, Oneida, reached the scene, they found fellow employees of DeFrees working frantically in an attempt to bring back life by means of artificial respiration. Coroner Howard J. Teller, Rome, viewed the body and placed it in charge of an Oneida Undertaker.  DeFrees was born near Oneida and always lived in this vicinity.  He served 17 months overseas in the World War and several months in the front line trenches as an electrician.  His two brothers, Hollis and Harold, are Oneida electricians.  DeFrees belonged to the Oneida American Legion post, Elks and Odd Fellows.  Surviving besides four small children and his wife, who was Marion Tuttle, McConnellsville, are two brothers and two sisters, Mrs. Arthur Lanphere, Oneida, and Mrs. Jennie Tobin, Chittenango.  Coroner teller of Rome will conduct an investigation at his office Saturday afternoon.  [Norwich Sun, July 13, 1927]

 

 

Marriages (February 6)

Searles - Toby:  On Thursday afternoon, Nov. 8th, occurred one of the happiest events of the season, at the residence of Abner Searles, in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], it being the marriage of their daughter, Minnie, to Christopher Toby, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].  At three o'clock the bridal party entered the west parlor, and standing under the arch of evergreens from which hung the lucky horse shoe, they were met by Rev. D.N. Grummon of Bainbridge, who performed the ceremony in a very impressive manner, Prof. C.S. Foote ably presided at the organ.  After the happy couple had received many hearty congratulations, the party prepared to the dining room, where a bountiful repast was spread, from which, after nearly one hundred had partaken, many packages were taken up and sent to the absent ones.  The high estimation this couple hold in the hearts of their many friends was made manifest by the useful and valuable presents.  The total valuation of the presents was about $150.  Guests were present from Afton, Guilford, Oxford, Greene, Unadilla, Binghamton and Cortland.  The newly married couple received a warm reception at Mrs. Toby's, the mother of the groom, and took the 6 o'clock train on Saturday morning to visit friends in Oneida, Utica and Rome. 

 

Searles - Kirkland:  At the home of the bride's parents at Bainbridge, Miss Jennie Lind Searles and John W. Kirkland were united in holy wedlock on Wednesday Feb. 3, 1897 at 7 o'clock.  Rev. W. R. Tamblyn of Windsor officiating.  Miss Grace Kirkland acted as bride's maid and Frank Ireland as best man.  Miss Lilla Hollenbeck of Bainbridge rendered music for the occasion.  The near relatives of the bride and groom were the invited guests.  The home was made very pleasant by tastefully arranged evergreen decorations.  The company also expressed their wishes by giving many useful and beautiful presents.

 

At  high noon, Wednesday, July 31st, Miss Hattie Briggs of Mt. Vision [Otsego Co., NY] and Rev. E. Kilpatrick of Otego [Otsego Co., NY] were married.  They left for Ocean Grove by way of Albany, and after a few weeks' stay will return by way of Carbondale.  [July 21, 1897]

On Thursday Jan 31 occurred a pleasing even tat the home of Mr. and Mrs. John C. Toby, it being the eleventh anniversary of their marriage.  Mr. and Mrs. Foster Watkins, of Guilford arrived the evening before, so that the groom, who was to be surprised the following day, might be at home.  The day was perfect.  The bright sun glinting, sleigh bells jingling, noses tingling.  At 11 a.m. horses came prancing to the door bringing Yalevilleites.  But, where is John!  "Down town with Foster," says his wife who was in the secret.  Soon back he came, and lo! the yard is half filled with cutters and the veranda full of people calling "Hello John!  We thought we would make you a visit."  In due time the tables were steaming with oyster soup and laden with many good things, to which after songs and chatting, about forty-five visitors did ample justice.  Soon good byes were said and all departed wishing the bride and groom and all present might enjoy many such bright happy days.  [1895]

Afton [Chenango Co., NY]:  On Thursday evening December 1st at the home of the groom's sister, Mrs. Edwin Gardner on Caswell st., occurred the marriage of Miss Jennie Mae Becker of this place and Mr. James Oswald Cane of Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY].  The ceremony was performed by Rev. Harry E. Brooks, pastor of the Methodist church.  [Bainbridge Republican, Dec. 15, 1927]

Afton [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. Nettie Pashley and Mr. Raymond B. Hurd of Harpursville [Broome Co., NY], were married at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Decker, in this village on January 1st, 1928.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. Fred J. Davis, rector of St. Luke's Episcopal church at Harpursville.  Mrs. Decker is a sister of the bridegroom.  Following the ceremony, a wedding breakfast was served to twenty-two relatives and friends.  Mr. and Mrs. Hurd left in the afternoon for Pittsburg, Buffalo, and Niagara Falls.  They will be at home in Harpursville after January 15th.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 12, 1928]

Obituaries (February 5)

Without a moment's warning Mrs. Nettie L. Hutchinson died in her husband's arms about 10 o'clock Tuesday evening from water gathered around the heart.  She had been sick nearly two weeks with bilious fever, but just before the end came she seemed very much better and had been laughing and talking with her husband.  Mrs. Nettie L. Hutchinson was born in the town of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] and was 32 years and 10 months old.  She was the only daughter of Chester and Elizabeth Ives of this town.  October 25, 1878, she was married to Theodore C. Hutchinson by the Rev. D.N. Grummon in Bainbridge and always lived within ten miles of the town.  A son, Hayward, aged four, and two daughters, Ruth, aged nine, and Hattie, aged 16, survive her.  She was respected by her neighbors, was very domestic in her tastes  The family have the sympathy of  the entire community.  The funeral will be held today at 10:30 a.m. from her late home on Bixby street, Rev. D.N. Grummon, of Binghamton, officiating, assisted by the Rev. Arthur Spaulding of the Presbyterian church of Bainbridge.  The interment will be in the Yaleville cemetery [Guilford, NY].  [May 18, 1897]

 

The funeral of Mrs. Nettie L. Hutchinson was held last Friday morning at 10:30 from her late home on Bixby street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].  The attendance was very large not only of neighbors but many friends from other towns.  Rev. D.N. Grummon officiated at the house and Rev. Arthur Spaulding at the cemetery.  Lewis Woodruff, Martin Toby, Perry Cole, and D.A. Rhodes of Yaleville, old neighbors of the deceased, acted as bearers.  The floral tributes were large and beautiful.  The interment was in the Yaleville cemetery.  [1897]

 

Mrs. Jennie Nivens Ireland, who died in Binghamton Thursday, was brought here Monday for burial.  Deceased was 48 years of age and a member of the Tabernacle church.  She leaves two daughters and a son to mourn her loss.  Rev. E.B. Olmstead officiated, assisted by Rev. J.J. Henry.  [May 13, 1897]

 

Herman Milo Richards passed away at his home at Guilford Center [Chenango Co., NY] on Wednesday August 31st, 1927.  Deceased was the son of Edward and Betsie Mills Richards, and was born in Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], May 3rd, 1873.  He was a farmer by occupation and has been a resident f Guilford for the past forty-eight years.  the funeral was held in the Guilford Center church on Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock, the Rev. J.W.Bump officiating.  The body was laid to rest in the Sunset Hill cemetery to await the Great Dawning.  He leaves no near relatives, only a wife Jennie Richards who survives.  To the bereaved wife our sympathy flows.  [Bainbridge Republican, Sept. 8, 1927]

 

William A. Parsons, a well known citizen of this village died suddenly on Monday afternoon, Dec. 5, 1927 at the age of 73 years.  For about two years Mr. Parsons had been troubled with heart disease.  He was confined to the bed for only a few days, his condition was not considered serious until Sunday night.  Mr. Parsons had lived in the town of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] all his life, having moved to the home where he died in 1884.  He married Ella Patchin in 1881, who with one daughter Mrs. C.H. Odell survive. he was the son of John D. and Abigale White Parsons and three sisters, Mrs. Emma Greene of Sidney; Mrs. E.H. DePugh of Somerville, Mass., and Mrs. C.T. Waters of Oneonta and one brother, Horatio Parsons of Bainbridge survive.  Mr. Parsons had engaged in farming all his life, having bought the Dr. Samuel Banks farm in 1884 and erected the buildings thereon.  Later he purchased the Chapin farm.  The funeral service was held Thursday at the home at 2:00 p.m. Rev. R.B. Whitman officiated and interment was in Greenlawn cemetery [Bainbridge, NY].  [Bainbridge Republican, Dec. 15, 1927]

 

Sidney [Delaware Co., NY]:  The many friends of Mrs. LaSira Boyce, wife of Frank Boyce of Sidney, were saddened Friday morning as they learned of her sudden death.   Mrs. Boyce had not been quite as well as usual for a few days and the doctor was called on Thursday, but her condition was nothing alarming, as she was about her home as usual.  Friday morning Mr. Boyce discovered her breathing was not natural and she lived only a few minutes after awakening.  Mrs. Boyce was born in the state of Illinois September 28, 1872, and had been married 31 years.  She had been a resident of Sidney for the past 16 years and had made many friends here during the time.  She is survived by her husband, one daughter, Ethel, an aged father, Thomas Drake, two brothers, Frank and Merritt Drake, and a sister, Mrs. Dan Davis.  Her death is particularly sad as the daughter, Ethel, is an invalid and has been confined to her bed most of the time for four years past.  Owing to this, the funeral was private, only relatives and a few friends being present. Rev. T.A. Rich officiated at the funeral, speaking words of comfort, and Mrs. Ethel Case and Mrs. Hare sang "In the Garden" at the request of the daughter.  Mrs. Boyce was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church of Sidney and of the Daughters of Veterans.  Burial was in Prospect Hill cemetery [Sidney, NY].  The sympathy of nearly every home in Sidney goes out to the afflicted family.  Miss Ethel Boyce will be taken to the home of her aunt, Mrs. Davis, in Binghamton, where she will be tenderly cared for--Oneonta Star.  Miss LaSira Drake, before her marriage to Mr. Frank Boyce was a resident of this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] and attended school here.  She lived in the family of the late Dr. R.D.L. Evans.  [Bainbridge Republican, Dec. 15, 1927]

BHS Class of 1933, Part 1

Bainbridge High School Class of 1933

Senior Portraits

"Echo" 1933

 

 

Madeline Baird

"Maddie"

 

Velma Banner

"Iggy"

 

Verna Banner

"Peaches"

 

Frederick Birdsall

"Fred"

 

Lucretia Brown

"Lu"

Class Secretary

 

Kenneth Davis

"Ken"



Obituaries (February 4)

After a long and extremely painful illness Miss Mae Wilcox has gone to her eternal rest, the death angel coming about 11 o'clock Tuesday night, relieving her from the terrible suffering and casting a gloom not only over her home but many friends.  It was nearly a year ago when she was first afflicted with hip disease, which gradually developed into the worst and most peculiar form of this malady, which resulted in her untimely death.  Everything that the best specialist in this line could do was done but to no avail.  Mae was 16 years old and was one of Bainbridge's brightest young ladies.  Always at the head of her classes in school, a favorite with her friends for she was full of fun and always entered into every plan of the young people with zest.  She was also a conscientious worker in the Sunday school and Christian Endeavor societies.  After Mae had to be confined to the house her friends did not forget her but made her many pleasant visits which helped make the long hours pass.  The parents gave her every attention and the patience with which she endured her sufferings made her a true hero.  A brother also survives her.  The funeral will be held at 2 o'clock today at the house.  The services at the burial in Greenlawn cemetery [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] will be private.  [Mar. 9, 1897]

 

At 2 o'clock last Friday afternoon the last sad rites were performed over the remains of Miss Mae Wilcox in the presence of many friends and relatives at her late home.  Rev. Arthur Spaulding read passages from the scriptures and offered a touching prayer.  Two hymns were sung by Mrs. C.C. Hovey, Mrs. W. Evans, Saxa Newton and Don A. Gilbert.  Then the family and invited friends proceeded to the cemetery where Mae, who had been through so much suffering, was laid to rest.  Maurice Gilbert, Joe Hirt, Seba Hollenbeck, Clarence Kirby, Louis Lindgren and Wm. H. Fletcher acted a bearers.  The floral tributes were extremely handsome and there were many.  The prettiest and most appropriate was the cross and crown piece, reminding all of the heavy cross their little friend had borne on earth but now she had gone where she would wear the crown, won by her great patience during her long sickness here below.  [1897]

 

Mrs. Elizabeth Wilson wife of Benjamin Wilson, died of pneumonia at her home near West Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], Tuesday, March 30th, at 5:30 p.m.  She was the daughter of Moses and Lucy Earle and was born in Sidney [Delaware Co., NY] and was 65 years and 10 months of age.  A husband and one daughter survive her.  Mr. Wilson has been very ill for a number of weeks and his wife had been his faithful and loving nurse up to a week ago when the dreaded pneumonia set in.  She was one of those women who are an honor to America--a true wife and loving mother, always thinking of the home over which she has presided with such gentle grace.  The funeral was held at the Baptist church. Thursday afternoon at 1 o'clock with interment in the Fairview cemetery.

 

Mrs. Phoebe M. Converse (widow of Alvin) departed this life at her late home on Kirby street, on Tuesday evening, January 12th, after more than two years weakness from paralysis. The funeral will be held at her home on Friday morning at eleven o'clock and the burial will be in the cemetery at Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], in which town she was born some 68 years ago, and where her husband (for several terms the supervisor of this town), was buried.  She was a woman whose "price was far above rubies."  She had a cheerful yet reverent disposition, a musical talent which was consecrated to the service of Christ; she was interested in all matters of charity, and was a devoted member of Christ's church.   Before she was smitten with the disease which ended her days she seemed ripening for the better country and since then she has been but waiting for her Savior's call, "Come up higher."  [1892]

 

Adeline Amelia Pearsall, daughter of Henry and Samantha Norton Pearsall, was born on Searles Hill [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] May 22, 1842.  About 1861 she married Jerome Westcott.  Two daughters were born to this couple.  One died in infancy and the other, now Mrs. Ellen Westcott Parsons, resides in Mannington, West Va.  Mrs. Parsons was with her mother for the last two months of her life and will return to her family before the holidays.  Mrs. Westcott joined the Methodist Episcopal church when she was fifteen years old and has always lived a consistent Christian life.  With the exception of two years she has lived in Bainbridge where she will be very much missed by her host of friends.  For 53 years she has lived in her pearl street residence where she passed to her reward November 29th, 1927.  On December 1st, her funeral was held at her late home at 1:30 o'clock in the afternoon;  her pastor, Rev. L.E. Sanford, officiated.  Her body was laid to rest beside that of her brother, Lewis Pearsall, in the cemetery at Guilford, there to await the summons of her Master whom she served so many years.  [Bainbridge Republican, Dec. 15, 1927]

 

Monday afternoon Henry V. Dunham received a message announcing the death of his brother, Dr. Frank Dunham of Baltimore, Md.  He died after an illness of several weeks at the age of 58.  The deceased was a prominent physician in the city of Baltimore.  He was a lecturer on medical topics at John Hopkins University.  He leaves a wife and three children.  The funeral was held Wednesday at Boston.  Mr. Henry V. Dunham left Monday to attend the obsequies of his brother, returning Thursday noon.  [Bainbridge Republican, Sept. 8, 1927]

Mrs. Frank Dean Victim of "Gentle" Herd Sire:  While assisting her husband to get the milk cows into the barn Monday morning, August 29th, Mrs. Frank Dean who lives on the Masonville-Deposit road about a mile from the Masonville [Delaware Co., NY], was knocked down by a 4-year-old bull, the animal then attacking her as she lay on the ground and crushing out her life with his head before her husband could come to her assistance.  After the animal had knocked her down, he put his head against her chest and pushed her into the ground of the barnyard, crushing in her chest and causing such internal injuries that she was rendered unconscious and lived only about two hours after she was taken to the house.  When the animal knocked her down she called to her husband but before he could get out of the barn, where he was fastening the cows in the stanchions as she drove them in, the bull had caused the injuries which so soon proved fatal.  As soon as the husband could reach her side after driving the bull away, she was carried into the house and Dr. R.H. Loomis of this village was summoned.  The call was immediately answered, but even before his arrival it was seen that the end was near and that the doctor could do nothing to aid the stricken woman, as her injuries were internal and she was then having hemorrhages.  From the time Mr. Dean carried his wife into the home everything was done to ease the injured wife, but without avail.  The funeral services were held at the home Friday afternoon at one o'clock;  the interment in the Masonville cemetery.  Besides the husband she is survived by four small children, the oldest of whom is nine years of age--Sidney Enterprise.  [Stamford Mirror-Recorder, Sept. 7, 1927]

 

Masonville [Delaware Co., NY]:  The funeral of Mrs. Frank Dean who was killed on Tuesday of last week by their big Holstein bull was held on Friday at 1 p.m. at her late home and largely attended.  Rev. R.B. Whitman of Bainbridge officiated.  Burial in the Masonville cemetery.  She leaves a husband and four small children.  [Bainbridge Republican, Sept. 8, 1927]

Miscellaneous, Legends of Our Valley, Part 3, 1884

Legends of Our Valley - Part 3

More of White Store

Chenango Union, Mar. 6, 1884

 

On the marble headstones in Evergreen Cemetery [White Store, Chenango Co., NY] are many names which are only faint memories in the minds of the older portion of the inhabitants of our valley.  Among them are the names of Rev. Daniel Eastwood, and John, his brother, who resided on farms on the east side of the Unadilla, and at whose homes the first settlers met for religious worship before churches were built in the valley.  The inscription on the headstone of Rev. Daniel reads:  "And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament, and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever."  A fitting inscription.  In the fall of 1882 I chanced to meet in a city in the western part of the State, a lady of over four score, yet a bright and active as many at sixty.  She said musingly, one morning:  "Seventy years ago to-day Daniel Eastwood preached in my father's dooryard in Chenango county, and Alice Trask and Jonathan Bush went home singing and shouting.  They were converted at that meeting."  Alice Trask was Mrs. Rev. Dr. John Mitchell, of sainted memory, and the other a minister of the gospel, long since passed away.

 

John Eastwood was the hero of many thrilling adventures among the Indians, having at one time during the Revolutionary war been taken prisoner by them, and dragged to Montreal, from whence, some months later, he escaped with a comrade, and made his way through the dense forests to Schenectady.  All the way, only a few hours behind him, were Indians in pursuit, who were not misled by  the signs which he purposely left in his path to turn aside pursuers.  He reached his home in safety, to find that his friends had long mourned over his death.

 

The plowman on the east side of the Unadilla often turns up the flint arrowheads of the ancient dwellers in the forest, for this was a favorite camping ground for the wandering tribes.  Mrs. J. Reid, of Fredonia, N.Y., a daughter of John Eastwood, related to me an incident which she said would never fade from memory, although when it occurred she was but a mere child.  The children came running into the house, saying that several boatloads of Indians were landing on the river bank below the house.  Were they friends or foes?  That was the question.  "I will go and meet them," said Mr. Eastwood.  "When you see us coming, if they put me in front, run for your lives, and hide away;  but if I am walking around among them, have no fears."  With trembling, the frightened family watched for the coming of the Indians, but no sooner did they come in sight than they saw Mr. Eastwood walking around in the most unconcerned manner, and chatting pleasantly with all.  Then, instead of hiding, the tables were loaded with food, and the dusky visitors entertained in the most hospitable manner.   They soon left in the best of humor, and went on the hunting expedition which was their destination.  The birch bark canoes in which they came were left in the river, as new ones could be made whenever needed.  The red men were frequent visitors at Mr. Eastwood's who always gave them a kindly welcome.

 

Deer were plentiful in those days, and wolves were a great annoyance; and often bears ventured so near the homes of the settlers that they were killed, their flesh being esteemed quite a luxury.  The river did not then occupy its present narrow boundaries, but often overspread the valley.  White Store in those days was larger than Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], which only numbered two or three houses.  The years have not fulfilled the early promise, and the little hamlet remains as it was nearly a century ago.

Marriages (January 31)

Coventry [Chenango Co., NY]:  At the home of the bride's parents Mr. and Mrs. J.E. Harris, on Saturday evening May 16, 1925, their eldest daughter May Harris, was united in marriage to John Roakes of Rome [Oneida Co., NY], the Rev. C.W. Foden performing the ceremony.  They left Sunday for their future home in Rome.  [Bainbridge Republican, May 21, 1925]

Miss Mildred Lounsberry daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Lounsberry, former residents of this village, now of Harpursville [Broome Co., NY] and Mr. Claude Robinson of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], were married at the Methodist parsonage by Rev. Mr. Williams at Harpursville Wednesday evening, June 3, 1925.  They were attended by Mr. and Mrs. Leon Van Buskirk of this village.  Mrs. VanBuskirk is sister of Mrs. Robinson.  After a short trip Mr. and Mrs. Robison will be at home at No. 5, Allen street, Binghamton.  [Bainbridge Republican, June 4, 1925]

The marriage of Frank C. Drachler of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Lulu Lanphere of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] has just been announced.  The marriage was solemnized in Earlville, Friday February 22, 1926.  Rev. Mr. Curay pastor of the Methodist church performed the ceremony.  Mr. Drachler is well known in this place and has a host of friends that offer best wishes.  He is a member of the firm of Shelton & Drachler.  Mr. and Mrs. Drachler will make their future home in Guilford.  [Bainbridge Republican, Mar. 4, 1926]

Sidney [Delaware Co., NY]:  Benjamin L. Wood and Mary C. Fowler of Walton [Delaware Co., NY], were married at the Congregational parsonage by Rev. A.L. Shear on Friday.  [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 15, 1906]

Otego [Otsego Co., NY]:  Mr. and Mrs. N. Cornell, have issued invitations to the marriage of their daughter, Kate, to Joseph Frone, of Schenectady, in St. Mary's church, Oneonta, at 10 o'clock Wednesday morning Nov. 14.  [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 15, 1906]

Hobart J. Darlin and Frances P. Bennett both of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] were united in marriage at Binghamton, Saturday evening, Nov. 10th by the Rev. Mr. Phillips.[Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 15, 1906]

 

Obituaries (February 3)

John H. Post died of congestion of the lungs on Monday of this week, aged 78 years.  Mr. Post was born in Hartford co., Conn., but has spent most of his life in the town of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], moving from his farm to this place seven years ago.  Rev. H.B. Cook conducted the funeral services at the M.E. church on Wednesday, and the remains were taken to Coventryville for interment.  He leaves a wife and two sons, who are both living in Nebraska, and an adopted daughter, Mrs. F.J. Seeley of this town.  [Apr. 11, 1887]

 

Death has again entered a happy home and taken a kind husband and father.  Last fall William C. Gibson's health began to fail but he persisted in keeping at his post of duty even when others would have given up.  He continued going to the creamery, staying a little shorter time each day until it was a great exertion for him to go only for a visit.  At last he was compelled to stay at home.  Gradually he failed but kept up courage.  Those who had worked with him for years and other friends made him daily visits which he enjoyed greatly.  Tuesday morning, May 11th, the end came.  The immediate cause being tubercular ulcers of the bowels and stomach.  During his long sickness his wife has been his constant nurse and companion, being up with him every night and doing everything in her power to make this sickness, which she long ago realized as his last, as easy as possible.  William C. Gibson was born in Smithville Feb. 23, 1859, of Scotch parentage, they having come to this country early in life.  He inherited all the thrift and energy of the Scotch and at an early age won the reputation of being a good butter maker.  The Hull creamery in South Oxford was the first one he managed, being there a year.  Next, at the Winsor Bros. about a mile above Bainbridge.  From this he went to the West Bainbridge factory, thence to the Stone factory, remaining there four years and was acknowledged a master of the business.  Eight years ago when the Hovey & White creamery was started in Bainbridge he was placed in charge of the butter making department and has been there since.  As the business grew Will proved he had the ability to manage his part of the work and he had practically full charge of the departments pertaining to the handling and making up of the immense amount of milk and butter, while the Bainbridge creamery butter has won a high place in this product of the state.  In 1884 William Gibson was married to Miss Nellie H. Cartledge of Bainbridge, who with two daughters, Jessie and Bessie, survive him.  The sympathy of the entire community is extended them in their deep affliction.  Deceased was a member of Susquehanna Lodge, No. 167, F.&A.M., of Bainbridge, Vallonia Chapter, No. 80, R.A.M. of Afton, and Susquehanna Tribe, No. 274, I.O.R.M. of Bainbridge, and was also a member of the Board of Education.  He has filled many offices in the societies with credit and has been one of their hardest working members.  The funeral will be held this afternoon at 3 o'clock, Rev. J.E. Vassar officiating at the house after which the Masonic fraternity will take charge of the remains which will be buried in Green Lawn cemetery [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].  The honorary bearers from the Masonic fraternity are George I. Skinner, Dr. Bullis, Charles S. Stever, C.C. Hovey, Prof. F.W. Crumb and O.L. Crumb.  The bearers are from the Improved Order of Red Men and will be Frank Banner, Frank Redfield, Robert Banner, Edward Heath, William Payne and E.C. Hancock.  [1897]

 

Friday afternoon the last sad rites over the mortal remains of William C. Gibson were performed and in spite of the rain a large number of relatives, neighbors and friends gathered to pay their respects.  The services at the house were held at 3 p.m. conducted by Rev. J.E. Vassar, after which those bound by fraternal ties passed through the house to view the remains of their brother.  The Masonic body then took charge of the services with the assistance of the Red Men, Frank Redfield, Edward Heath, William Payne, E.C. Hancock, William Teachout, and Silas Stillman of that order acting a bearers, with the following Masons as honorary bearers:  Geo. I. Skinner, C.C. Hovey, O.L. Crumb, Prof. F.W. Crumb, Charles S. Stever and Dr. Bullis.  There were about 60 Masons and 30 Red men when the line formed for the march to Green Lawn cemetery, A.L. Bevier acting as marshal.  At the cemetery the services were brief owning to a pouring rain, but the ritual of the Masonic order was very impressive nevertheless, N.D. Card filling the office of Worthy Master and Geo. I. Skinner chaplain.  The floral tributes were extremely beautiful, among them being the Masonic, a bank of flowers with the "G", square and compass, and the Red Men's, with a tomahawk. Also one from Hovey, Clark & Co., American Separator Co. and the men who had worked with Mr. Gibson was very handsome.  A harp from Mr. and Mrs. L.C. Redfield and a pillow with the word "papa" from the little daughters of the deceased.  There were many others including wreaths and cut flowers all testifying the love and respect William C. Gibson had won in his friends' hearts.  [1897]

 

At the advanced age of 73 years Aaron E. Loomis died at is home on Mt. Pleasant [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] at 6 o'clock Saturday morning, June 5th.  Death came as the immediate result of a shock he had some three and a half months ago.  Aaron Loomis came to this town when about five years of age from the state of Connecticut and has lived in the towns of Oxford, Afton and Bainbridge since.  He was a carpenter by trade, but devoted much of his time to farming, being an energetic and industrious man, treating all with honor and respect he had won a high place in the regards of his fellow men.  He was a kind and loving husband and father, and his departure from earthly scenes is sincerely mourned.  He was married in 1860 to Mary J. Burditt of Afton, who, with three sons.  Arvine, Miles and LeVene survive him.  The funeral was held at the house at 1 p.m. Monday and was very largely attended by relatives and the friends.  The floral tributes were tasty and quite in keeping with the life of the man in whose memory they honored.  Rev. C.H. Sackett officiated.  The interment was in the North Afton cemetery [1897]

 

At her home in Afton [Chenango Co., NY] Thursday, April 1st, Mrs. Harriet Loop, wife of Charles Loop, died of pneumonia after a lingering illness.  A husband and two children, Mrs. John Lilly of this village and E.J. Loop of Springfield, Mo., survive her.  She was 68 years of age.  The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday [1897]

 

BARSTOW:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], May 24, 1897, Marcia Alcott, wife of Frank Barstow, aged 21 years. 

 

BARSTOW:  In Guilford, May 26, 1897, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Barstow.

 

The funeral of Mrs. Frank Hinman 58 years old was held at her home Thursday.  The Rev. Mr. Lathrop of Afton officiated.  Interment was in the vault at Greenlawn cemetery [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].  Mrs. Hinman was the mother of the late Norman Slater, who was killed in the World War and for whom the Slater-Silvernail Post of the American legion of this village is named.  She is survived by her husband and two sons, Grant Hinman and Otis Slater, a sister Mrs. Eliza Lyndecker and a brother Otis Sweet of Kirkwood.  [Bainbridge Republican, Mar. 4, 1926]

 

Susanna Ruth, wife of Clarence G. Mumford of Starrucca, Pa., died Friday morning at the home of her sister, Mrs. Marshall G. Hill of Afton, where she and her husband were spending the winter.  Her age was seventy-seven years and seven months.  She is survived by her husband and two sisters, Mrs. Hill of Afton and Mrs. W.A. Lee of Thompson, Pa.  also by several nieces and nephews.  Susanna Ruth Avery was the daughter of David and Lavina Avery of Ararat, Pa.  On September 21, 1871 she was married to Clarence G. Mumford, a son of Judge James Mumford of Starrucca.  She was a member of the Presbyterian church at Ararat, also of Cunahunta Chapter, D.A.R., of Afton.  A prayer service was held Saturday evening at the home of Mrs. Hill in Afton, by Rev. D.M. Geddes of the Presbyterian church.  the funeral, in charge of a nephew, Louis Mumford was held at Starrucca Monday at 11 a.m.  Rev. Butler officiating with burial at Starrucca.  [Bainbridge Republican, Mar. 4, 1926]

 

Blog listing, January 27 - February 2, 2014

Listing of blog postings for the week of January 27 to February 2, 2014.

Marriages

Posted January 27, 2014

Georgianna Roberts - George T. Campbell

Lydia O. Axtell - Herbert M. Ramsdell (1895)

Frank T. Barber - Helen Priest (1891)
Verna Porter - Henry Hall (1924)
Robert J. Fraiser - Olive A. Rice (1924)
Mildred Mae Foote - Wilfred Lee Mead (1924)
Geraldine Weaver - Arthur Davis (1924)

Posted January 28, 2014
Charles S. Hynds - Jessie Corbin
Verna Luther - Winn Barnes (1924)
Ethel G. Butts - Lee W. Crawford (1924)
Terressa M. Burton - Maurice F. Gardner (1924)

Posted January 29, 2014
Jerome J. Green - Jane A. Grover (1893)
Earl Murray - Nettie Kniffen (1896)
Marjorie Milliken - Frank Turk (1924)
Edith V. Porter - Harrison H. VanCott (1924)


 

Obituaries

Posted January 27, 2014

Nellie Newton (Sidney)
Seba G. VanKleek (Guilford, 1924)
Rev. John Milton Wolcott (Binghamton, 1924)
William Aaron Priest (Masonville, 1924)
Anna Frances Miller (Guilford, 1924)
Cora B. Stever (Sidney, Bainbridge, 1924)
Theodore C. Hutchinson (Bainbridge, 1924)

Posted January 28, 2014
Sarah Elliott (Bainbridge, 1924)
Laura Kelley (Coventry, 1924)
Emily J.R. Deal (Philadelphia, 1924)
Sarah Whitehead Elliott (Bainbridge, 1924)
James Burnside (Masonville, 1924)
Mrs. H.E. Bartlett (Masonville, 1924)

Posted January 29, 2014
Mrs. Jerome Green (1892)
Leroy Burlingame (West Point, WI, 1896)
Minnie Sawyer - Zeph Thorp (1924)
Edna Burnside (Masonville, 1924)
Elizabeth (Kirkland) Metcalf, Barber, Gilbert (Bainbridge, 1924)
Wealthy Blake Horton (Coventryville, 1924)
Thomas Dunne (Coventry, 1924)
Mrs. James Ireland (Bainbridge, 1924)

Posted January 30, 2014
Bradford G. Greene (Oxford)
Rev. Orrin J. Sands (Buena Vista, CO, Bainbridge, 1896)
Andrew A. Dunham (Bainbridge, 1925)
Joseph Hyatt (East Guilford, 1925)

Posted January 31, 2014
Phoeby Sliter (West Bainbridge)
William Banner (Guilford, Bainbridge, 1890)
Judge George W. Ray (Norwich, 1925)
James L. Hyde (Bainbridge, 1925)
Carolyn Rowe-Reeve (Newburgh, NY, 1925)
Charles Phillips (Afton, Nineveh, 1925)

Posted February 1, 2014
Rev. Elliott Ketcham (North Fenton, 1895)
Leon W. Weeks (West Bainbridge, 1895)
George P. Cushman (Plymouth, 1894)
Albert A. Hornshu (Bainbridge, 1925)
Floyd Sigsbee (Sidney, 1925)
Mary E. (Sheldon) Stead (Yaleville, 1925)

Posted February 2, 2014
Joseph Bush (Bainbridge, 1897)
Charles S. Hynds (Bainbridge, 1897)
Richard Bush (North Afton, 1897)
Grace Andrews (1896)
Margaret E. Dibble (Plymouth, Greene, Bainbridge, 1926]
Margaret Shapley (NYC, Oxford, 1926)
Olive M. Hamilton (Guilford, 1926)



 

Miscellaneous

Posted January 27, 2014

Nominated on State Ticket, Seymour Lowman Started Life in Bainbridge, Lived and Attended High School Here, Bainbridge Republican, Oct. 2, 1924.

Lowman for Lieutenant Governor, Elmira Star-Gazette.

Family of State Senator Seymour Lowman - Photos.



Posted January 28, 2014

Mount Upton Depot Burns, Chenango Union, June 8, 1882.

Posted January 29, 2014

Bainbridge High School, Class of 1932, Part 3 

 

Posted January 30, 2014

Legends of Our Valley - Part 1, White Store, Norwich, Chenango Co., NY, Mrs. E.J. Richmond

Chenango Union, Feb. 14, 1884

Bainbridge High School Teaching Staff, 1933 (Photo)

Posted January 31, 2014
Madison County widow victimized, Chenango Union, Feb. 14, 1884

Posted February 1, 2014

Legends of Our Valley - Part 2, Chenango Union, Feb. 21, 1884

Posted February 2, 2014
Room Collapse in Guilford, Chenango Union, Feb. 7, 1884.

Miscellaneous, Room Collapse in Guilford, 1884

Appalling Accident in Guilford

Chenango Union, Feb. 7, 1884

 

As the delegations of Masons from Bainbridge, Unadilla and Oxford were preparing to attend the funeral of the late E.S. Bradley, at his residence in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], from the rooms of the Ancient Order of United Workman, on the third floor of the Erkson building in that village, on Sunday last, the floor gave way, precipitating over fifty members of the fraternity to the main hall below, a distance of some ten feet.  The scene was at once one of the wildest confusion, for with this struggling mass of humanity was commingled the debris of the demolished floor, together with tables, chairs, desks, and the burning stove and a quantity of wood.

 

For several moments the dense and suffocating atmosphere, arising from the dirt and crumbling plaster, was so great that scarcely anything could be seen.  During this the greatest apprehension prevailed from the fear of fire, and that the second floor might also give way, as it had settled some inches.  As soon as the citizens outside, who responded nobly, could gain entrance, they began caring for the injured.  It was found that no one had been killed, but that several had sustained considerable injuries, and they were conveyed to their homes and to the residences of friends and provided with medical attendance.  Among the injured was Epenetus Winsor, of that place, who sustained a fracture of the lower bone of leg; L.R. Scott, of Bainbridge, returned home, but found to have a fractured leg; Mr. DeForest, of Unadilla, injured internally and dislocated ankle; Charles S. Hyatt, of Unadilla, injured generally; A.R. Brown, of Guilford, Leg seriously injured and burned; M. miller, also of same place, ankle sprained; E.C. Beardsley, of Oxford, injured chest; and a number of others more or less bruised and injured.

 

Considering everything, it was a miraculous escape.  Had the accident taken place the preceding evening, when the lower hall was packed with people in attendance upon Capt. Thomas' entertainment, and the Ancient Order of United Workmen, of nearly the same number of persons, were holding their regular meeting above, more or less loss of life must have ensued. At last accounts the injured were comfortable, and no serious consequences are anticipated.  Mr. Charles S. Hyatt is still at the hotel at Guilford, but is improving and will soon return home.

Obituaries (February 2)

After nearly two years of suffering, death claimed Hon. Joseph Bush, Monday, Jan. 25th [1897].  At different periods in his illness he has rallied and his strong constitution would assert itself only to sink back again.  The last few years of his life he received every care and attention.  A brief  sketch of Hon. Joseph Bush's life would be of interest to those acquainted with the history of Bainbridge.  Joseph Bush was born in Bainbridge in the house in which he died, Feb. 23, 1823, and was nearly 84 years of age....Joseph Bush was the youngest of seven children, only one of whom is left, Jabin S., of Tioga, Pa.  He received a good education in the common and select schools in this section and was greatly assisted by his brother, a graduate of Hamilton college.  Until he reached manhood he was surrounded by all the best influences of a home life which was the foundation of a long and successful career.  Inheriting energy and adaptability to business he was not satisfied to remain quiet, but pushed out among his fellows.  From 1852 to 1857 he engaged in lumbering in Upper Canada.  In 1859 he was nominated as member of assembly, and elected, all but 16 votes being cast for him in Bainbridge.  In the assembly he was on the ways and means committee, and took an active part in obtaining assistance from the state for the construction of the Albany & Susquehanna railroad, materially aiding the project with his wealth and influence.  After his term in the legislature he resided in New York city, dealing with success in real estate until 1870, when he returned to Bainbridge to live and personally conducted the farm. He was of fine presence, a good judge of character, which peculiarly fitted him for all affairs of life.  He was a zealous Republican, belonging to that organization since its inception.  Prior to that time he was an ardent Whig, but repelled all suggestion of office.  He was one of the founders of the First National bank of Bainbridge, and his wealth and influence helped many enterprises in Bainbridge. Deceased was never married.  The funeral was held at his late residence Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. Walter E. Bentley of Deposit a former rector of St. Peter's church, officiating.  The attendance was large, not only many of our townspeople going but a large number came from other towns, all to pay their respect to the honored dead.  The floral tributes were handsome and very numerous.  The honorary bearers were, John Banks, Dr. Evans, Lewis Taylor, Edgar Hayes, Burr Campbell and Joseph Juliand' acting bearers, Ho Parsons, John McGinnis, Carl Samuels, Thomas Pettley, Wallace May and Jacob Warner.  The interment was in the family cemetery.

 

Tuesday morning occurred the death of Chas. S. Hynds, once a prominent business man of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].  He had been in poor health for some time caused by nervous prostration.  Mr. Hynds was born in Hyndsville, Schoharie county, and when about 25 years old came to Bainbridge and took a position as clerk in Dr. Gervase Prince's hardware store.  In 1880 he bought out the business, enlarged it and commenced a career of trade on his own account.  Three years ago he sold out to Barlow & Clark.  He was a Mason and a Knight Templar, a member of Malta Commandery of Binghamton.  Mr. Hynds was married in 1882 to Miss Jessie Corbin, daughter of Devillo Corbin of Bennettsville.  Besides his wife, two children and an aged mother survive him.  He also leaves a brother, Sanford Hynds, of Hyndsville.  Rev. T.F. Hall of Binghamton officiated at the funeral which was held Thursday at 2 p.m. with burial in Greenlawn cemetery [Bainbridge, NY].  The bearers were P.K. Scofield, A. Vervalen, E. Whitman, George Woodruff , J.M. Roberts, J. Clark.  A quartet composed of Daniel Banner, George A. Ives, Don A. Gilbert, George A. Smith furnished music.  [Apr. 27, 1897]

 

After a lingering illness caused by a complication of diseases, Richard Bush died at his home on the Yaleville road Tuesday afternoon.  Mr. Bush was a good neighbor and a respected citizen.  A wife and five children survive him.  The funeral will be held at the house this morning at 11 o'clock with interment in the North Afton cemetery [Chenango Co., NY].  [Apr. 13, 1897]

 

Miss Grace Andrews, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Elmon Andrews, died at the home of Rev. F.E. Benjamin Monday morning, after a week's illness of pneumonia.  The funeral was held Wednesday noon.  Deceased was about seventeen years of age.  [Feb. 10, 1896]

 

Margaret E. Dibble, formerly of Plymouth, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], died Monday morning after a short illness, at the home of B.D. Stanton, 38 Guernsey street, Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].  Deceased was born in Greene, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 29, 1850, and resided there for many years and also in Bainbridge, N.Y.  She is survived by one nephew Warren N. Stanton, of Toledo, O., and her brother-in-law, B.D. Stanton of Norwich.  Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at her late home at one o'clock, the Rev. Oscar Meyer of Christ church, Sherburne, officiating.  Burial at Plymouth cemetery.  Miss Dibble was a member of St. Peter's church, Bainbridge for more than twenty-five years.  She was employed as a domestic by the late Joseph Bush at Harmonie Farms.  Her sister, Mrs. Stanton died December, 4, 1925.  [Bainbridge Republican, Apr. 15, 1926]

 

Margaret Shapley, 28 years old, a clerk in the Grand Central Postoffice Branch was drowned in the bathtub of her home, 102 West 152d Street, New York, on Sunday, April 4th.  It is believed that she fainted while in the tub.  The accident was discovered when Mrs. Margaret Slack, with whom Miss Shapley lived, returned home and found the door locked and Miss Shapley's room vacant.  The body was brought to Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 4:30 train Tuesday afternoon and taken to the funeral parlors of F.W. Saymour & Son where funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at one o'clock, conducted by Rev. C.A. Winters.  Burial in Riverview cemetery.  The deceased is survived by five brothers, Ward, Howard, Charles, Benjamin and Everett Shapley and three sisters, Mrs. William Merrill, Mrs. Frank Johnson, and Mrs. Ellis Ingersoll. [Bainbridge Republican, Apr. 15, 1926]

 

Olive M. Hamilton, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Cyrus Salley, departed this life March 29th, 1926.  She was born in Embden, Maine May 30th, 1838 one of fifteen children.  She was married to Isaac Hamilton, Nov. 27, 1867 a veteran of the Civil war.  They came to Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] purchasing a large farm, which was her home for 59 years.  Four children were born to them, one of whom died in infancy, another the only daughter lived until she was thirty-three years of age.  The husband and father died December 19th, 1883.  She has been a very active woman in her earlier years, the care of the farm in a measure falling upon her.  She had been in feeble health for several years, but her last illness of bronchial pneumonia was of short duration.  She is survived by her two sons Charles and Walter; two sisters Mrs. Clymenia Hilton and Mrs. Fred Getchell; two brothers Fred and Mendum Salley and several nieces and nephews of Maine and a niece Mrs. Will Hawkins of Valonia Springs.  She was a member of [Christ] church of Guilford.  The funeral was held at the home at 1:30 o'clock Thursday.  Rev. Thomas J. Collar officiating.  Several beautiful floral selections gave expression to the affection which was felt for this esteemed lady nearly 88 years of age.  Burial to be in Sunset Hill cemetery in the family plot at Guilford.  [Bainbridge Republican, Apr. 15, 1926]