Miscellaneous

Human Skeleton Unearthed

Bainbridge Republican, September 2, 1876

 

N.A. Humphrey, of this town [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], unearthed a full grown human skeleton on Monday last, while grading the yard about his house.  The skeleton was found at a depth of three feet below the surface of the ground, and from indications had lain there a great many years.  Mr. Humphrey's farm is the oldest in town, and was first settled by Gould Bacon, but no one seems to have any recollection of a person being buried in that locality. 

 

Sweet Brothers Photographed

Bainbridge Republican, August 19, 1876

 

Lawrence Newton, our popular artist, on Monday took the photograph, in a group, of the Sweet brothers, six in number.  The oldest of these is 74 years and the youngest in 54 years of age.  These brothers reside, Benj. B. Sweet at Wilmington, Delaware, W.H. Sweet at Rutland, Pa., and Alanson Sweet at Clinton, Pa.  The other three brothers, Cyrus W. Sweet, Nelson Sweet and C.R. Sweet, reside in the adjoining town of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY].  These brothers were born and reared in our neighboring town, but had not all been together before in a half a century. Their reunion certainly must have been one of the most happy and interesting events of their lives. 

 

Carriage - Lumber Wagon Accident

Bainbridge Republican, August 12, 1876

 

On Friday last, as Hon. Joseph Bush was returning home from this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], in company with Dr. Prince, Miss Delia Kepan and Elliot Danforth, Esq., the carriage in which the party were riding collided with a heavy lumber wagon loaded with stone, and a general smash up resulted.  Mr. Bush's horse became frightened and started on a run, the shafts having been detached from the wagon by the force of the collision.  The entire party were pitched over the dash-board, Miss Kepan falling under one of the wheels, from which position in extricating herself her clothes were badly torn.  No serious injury was sustained by any of the party.  Their escape seems almost a miracle.

 



Soldier News continued - 1945

Men Discharged from Service

 

T-Sgt. E.F. McMullen Discharged from Army Air Force

Afton Enterprise October 18, 1945

 

E.F. McMullen, son of Mr. and Mrs. E.P. McMullen, was honorably discharged from the Army Air Force at Fort Dix, N.J. Oct. 11, 1945.  Mr.  McMullen entered the service April 23, 1942 and spent nearly two years in the European Theater having duty in the Ardennes, Central Europe, Normandy, Northern France and the Rhineland.  He wears the Bronze Star medal, Distinguished Unit Badge with one oak leaf cluster, European, African, Middle Easter service medal, good conduct medal and five battle stars.  Mr. McMullen was a Flight Chief with the famous 362nd Fighter Bomber squadron of P-47 Thunderbolts, supervising the work of 14 A.P. mechanics.

 

T/4 Wendell G. Wrench discharged from the Army Air Force

Bainbridge News & Republican, Nov. 1, 1945

 

Kelly Field, Tex., Oct. 23, 1945:  T/4 Wendell G. Wrench, of R.D.1, Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], received his discharge from the Army Air Forces today and has returned to civilian life.  T/4 Wendell G. Wrench last served at the huge AAF supply and maintenance installation of the San Antonio Air Technical Service Command, Kelly Field, Tex.  During his army career he served 38 months in the service, overseas 24 months; European Theatre of Operations.  He wears the following decorations:  Good Conduct Medal, E.A.M.E. Ribbon with 2 battle stars, Meritorious Award.  prior to entering the Army he was employed at the Scintilla Magneto.

 

Cpl. Clifford Sherman Home for Furlough

Bainbridge News & Republican, Nov. 8, 1945

 

Cpl. Clifford Sherman, who arrived in the States from the European Theatre, Sept. 2, is spending an extended furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Sherman, of R.D.2, Bainbridge. Corporal Sherman served 17 months with the 3rd Air Cargo Re-Supply.  He wears the European Theatre ribbon with three battle stars, the Air Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.  his brother, T/5 Alvin L. Sherman, has just been discharged; another brother, Pvt. Clarence Sherman, has just arrived in Italy.

 

T/5 Alvin L. Sherman Discharged form Army

Bainbridge News & Republican, Nov. 8, 1945

 

T/5 Alvin L. Sherman, of Co. A, 358th Infantry, received an honorable discharge at Fort Dix, N.J., Nov. 1.  Corporal Sherman entered the army more than three years ago with 19 months of this time served overseas. He took part in Normandy, Ardennes, Northern France, Rhineland and Central Europe.  He wears the European Theatre ribbon with five battle stars, American Service Medal with Arrowhead, Good Conduct Medal, Purple Heart, Victory Medal, and Combat infantryman's Badge.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Nov. 8, 1945]

 

T/5 Joseph Moore Home After 3 Years in Pacific

Bainbridge News & Republican, Nov. 8, 1945

 

T/5 Joseph G. Moore, who has served with the Armed Forces in the Pacific Theatre for more than three and one-half years, arrived at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.R. Howland, Sunday afternoon after receiving an honorable discharge at Fort Dix, N.J.  Corporal Moore entered the army April 23, 1942, and was assigned to the Amphibian Engineers at Camp Edwards, Mass., the first unit of its kind to be formed by the army.  On Jan. 29, 1943, he went overseas with the 542nd Engineers Amphibian Regt., arriving in Brisbane, Australia.  He was stationed in Buna, Nassau, Tambu, Salamaua, Lae, Finschaven, Saidor, Hollandia, Biak, all in the New Guinea area.  he then took part in the invasion of Leyte, Panay, Negros, Cebu, ending up in Yokohoma, Japan.  He wears the Asiatic-Pacific ribbon with three battle stars and Arrowhead, American Theatre ribbon, Philippine Liberation ribbon with one star, the Bronze Star Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Victory Medal.

 

Sgt. Charles O. Loller Discharged from Army

Bainbridge News & Republican, Nov. 8, 1945

 

Sgt. Charles O. Loller, 36, son of William Loller, of Hancock [Delaware Co., NY], has been honorably discharged from the army.  Sgt. Loller, who entered the service Aug. 29, 1942, was assigned to the Miami Beach area with various installations in November, 1942.  His last assignment was with the post office of the Miami Beach Service Base, Air Technical Service Command, where he was awarded the good Conduct Medal and meritorious Service Unit insignia.  In civil life Loller was employed at the United States post office in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].  

 



 



Marriages (August 30)

Burnett - Shupe:  Mr. and Mrs. Walter Shupe announce the marriage of their daughter, Joyce, to Seaman Clarence F. Burnett on Thursday evening September 27th.  A double ring ceremony was performed by Rev. Clifford Webb in the Presbyterian Church.  A reception for the immediate family and a few friends was held at the bride's home, after which Seaman and Mrs. Burnett left for a brief wedding trip.  Seaman Burnett reported to his ship, the U.S.S. Massachusetts on October 13th.  Mrs. Burnett plans to return to her home in Afton [Chenango Co., NY] until his discharge in February.  [Afton Enterprise, Oct. 4, 1945]

 

Davy - Fisher:  On Saturday eveing at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Louis Fisher, Miss Shirley Fisher, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], was united in marriage with William Harold Davy, of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], by the Rev. Kenneth Kingston, of the Methodist church.  The bride was attended by Mrs. Karl VanSchaick and the groom by his brother, Warren Davy.  The home was very tastefully decorated, the couple standing under an attractive floral arch, in the presence of a few intimate friends and relatives.  After the serving of delicious refreshments, the young couple left on a short wedding trip  On their return they will make their home in Coventry.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Sept. 13, 1945]

 

Brant - Ruteshouser:  Miss Mary Ruteshouser, daughter of Mrs. Mildred Ruteshouser, of Walton [Delaware Co., NY], and Earl Brant, of Hamden [Delaware Co., NY], were married at the Presbyterian Church at Hamden Sunday afternoon, Sept. 2. The Rev. John G. King, D.D., officiated.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Sept. 11, 1945]

 

Marriage Notices

Oxford Times, Feb. 8, 1871
ALEXANDER - MILLARD:  In this village, Feb. 1st, by Rev. T.P. Halsted, Mr. William Alexander of Greene [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Ellen J. Millard, of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY]--Printers kindly remembered.

MERCHANT - ROGERS:  In Christ's Church, Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 1st, by Rev. Geo. Heaton, Mr. M. E. Merchant to Miss Ellen G. Rogers, both of Guilford.

BURLISON - YALE:  In Yaleville, Jan. 25th, by Rev. Lyman Sperry, Mr. Frederick L. Burlison to Miss Ellen L. Yale, all of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

RANDALL - HILL:  At So. New Berlin, Dec. 27th, by Rev. Mr. Chamberlain, Mr. Frederick D. Randall of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Augusta Hill of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY]. 

Chenango Telegraph, Aug. 30, 1871
WESTERGREN - CAULSON:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th inst., by the Rev. Mr. Loveridge, Mr. Charles Westergren to Miss Christina Caulson (Peter Anderson interpreter) al of this village.

HEWITT - PER LEE:  At the Congregational church, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Aug. 26th, by Rev S. Scoville, Mr. Wm. S. Hewitt to Miss Hattie PerLee, daughter of Col. S.R. PerLee, all of Norwich.

ROGERS - BROWN:  In DeRuyter, Madison county Aug. 19th, 1871, by Rev. J. Clarke, Mr. Henry J. Rogers to Miss Mary C. Brown, both of Otselic [Chenango Co., NY].

REYNOLDS - SPAULDING:  In DeRuyter, August 10th, by Eld. T. Fisher, Mr. Alvah P. Reynolds of DeWitt, Onondaga county and Miss Sarah A. Spaulding, of Lincklaen, Chenango County.

CALDER - TINKER:  In Sherburne, on the 22d inst. by Rev. J.I. Bennett, Orson M. Calder of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Libbie Tinker, of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

WELCH - HURLBURT:  In Oneida, July 31, by Rev. D. McFarland, H.H. Welch, of Earlville [Madison Co., NY], to Miss Nancy Hurlburt of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]

Obituaries (August 30)

Delbert Smith, a native of the town of Middlefield, Otsego county, [New York] but for the greater part of his life a resident of Schoharie county, died at 4 a.m. Monday at his home in Seward.  He had been ill since October last and for five weeks had been receiving radium treatment at the Fox Memorial hospital in Oneonta.  Two weeks ago he suffered a shock and on Wednesday last, at his earnest request, he was taken home that his last hours might be spent among friends in a town of which for forty years he had been a resident.  Mr Smith was 74 years of age.  In early life he was a teacher, but his occupation for many years was a carpenter which occupation he was unusually skillful.  For several years he led a retired life.  He was a member of the Schoharie Board of Supervisors to 1909.  He was a loving husband and father, an upright Christian man, a member of the Lutheran church and a kind friend and neighbor.  He was fond of out-door life and had made many trips to the Adirondacks in the deer season.  The deceased is survived by his wife, one son, L.D. Smith of Oneonta, and by six grandchildren; also by three brothers, W.C. Smith of East Worcester, Gilbert V. Smith of Schenevus and Edward of Warnerville.  The funeral services were held at his late home in Seward Wednesday, Interment was made in the Seward cemetery.  [Cobleskill Index, July 1, 1920]

 

William Schrieber, who had made his home at Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] for many years, was struck by train 308 at about 7:30 last Monday evening about a mile south of Sidney and was killed instantly.  Schrieber was walking the tracks south of the village of Sidney, when the fast west bound Binghamton express struck him, killing him instantly.  The train was stopped and the body placed aboard the baggage car and taken to Bainbridge, where it was turned over to an undertaker.  Schrieber had lived at Bainbridge for the past 15 years, but had recently left that village, his present address being unknown, although it is thought he was living near Sidney.  A singular fact in connection with the accident as reports reached this office last evening, was that although he had lived in Bainbridge for so long a number of years, no one knew about him or knew of any of his relatives -Star  [Sidney Record, Nov. 22, 1919]

Alfred W. Akerley, a well known citizen of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] was found dead in his bed on Thursday morning of last week.  Deceased was fifty-eight years of age.  [Chenango Union,  Oct. 28, 1880]

Mrs. Augusta Church, widow of Devillo Church, died at her home in Afton [Chenango Co., N Y], October 20.  Mrs. Church had been ill but a few weeks.  Recently she submitted to an amputation of the foot above the ankle from which she did not rally as well as was wished, death finally resulting.  Mrs. Church was sixty-nine years of age and leaves two sons, George and Frederick, both business men of Afton, also two sister, Margaret and Sarah Landers, who reside on the old homestead in that town.  [Oxford Times, Nov. 8, 1905]

Mrs. Emma Lawrence of Windsor [Broome Co., NY], died in the Binghamton Hospital on Saturday of last week and the body was brought to Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] for burial in the St. Peter's cemetery on Monday afternoon.  Mrs. Lawrence formerly lived in Bainbridge and was the widow of the late Andrew Lawrence, a civil war veteran.  She is survived by one son William Lawrence of Windsor and one daughter, Mrs. William Osgood of Walton.  [July 1918]

Died in Margaretville 17 Mar of apoplexy David Ackerly aged 61 years.  He was a pioneer of the village and, up to a year before his death, proprietor of the Ackerly House.  [Walton Chronicle, Mar. 24, 1869]
 

Death Notices

Oxford Times, Feb. 8, 1871

AKERLY:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 30th, Harriet, wife of Mr. R.W.Akerly, aged 47 years.

 

ELWELL:  At East Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 24th, Lucy, wife of Mr. Samuel Elwell, aged 63 years.

 

PURDY:  In Cortland [Cortland Co., NY], Jan. 23d, of apoplexy, Mr. Alfred Purdy, aged 65 years, formerly of Norwich [Chennago Co., NY].

 

Chenango Telegraph,  Aug. 30, 1871

PARSONS:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st inst., John H., son of John D. and Abigal Parsons, aged 4 years and 4 months.

 

PRIEST:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst. infant child of C. Martin Priest.

 

WALKER:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th inst., Mrs. Elizabeth Walker, aged 76 years, 10 months and 25 days. 

 

BEARDSLEY:  In Coventry [Chenango Co.,  NY] on the 17th isn't., Grace Ellen, daughter of Samuel and Harriet Beardsley, aged 7 months and 5 days.

 

BOLT:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY] on the 16th inst. Martha C., wife of Stephen H. Bolt, aged 27 years.

 

SLACK:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst., Minnie, daughter of Henry and Lois Slack, aged 1 year, 1 month.

 

YALE:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 20th inst., Mrs. Olive Yale, aged 81 years.

 

AKERLEY:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., Merton P. son of Alfred and Elizabeth Akerley, aged 13 years.

 

RATHBONE:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., N Y], on the  8th inst., Mr. Allen Rathbone, aged 20 years.

 

MERTHEW:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst. Mrs. Alden Merthew, aged 69 years.

 

WARRINER:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY] (Page Brook) on the 15th inst., Clarissa, wife of Rev. R.L. Warriner, aged 57 years.

 

JOHNSON:  Near Ft. Gibson IT [Oklahoma Indian Territory], July 20th, Mr. Edmund Leroy Johnson, formerly of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 30 years.

 





Bainbridge Power Plant Nearly Complete - 1945

Bainbridge Power Plant Now Nearly Complete

Afton Enterprise, September 13, 1945

 

With construction of the New York State Electric & Gas Corporation's new 44,000 horsepower generating plant at Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] entering its final stages, dedication ceremonies were tentatively set for December 1.

 

Announcement of plans for the formal opening of the giant plant was made by E.M. Cole, local manager of the company, as workmen rushed final work on a myriad of tasks essential to completion of the station.

 

Actual erection of the main building on the bank of the Susquehanna River has been completed.  Mechanical installations have been made except for miscellaneous piping and installations.  Most of the electrical equipment has been installed but considerable electrical work remains to be done including testing of equipment preliminary to operation.

 

The plant at Bainbridge is a part of the company's $10,000,000 construction of outdoor substations, [The project included construction of the] screenhouse, the chlorinating house, track hopper-house garage, intake tunnel, discharge tunnel, deepening of the river bed and laying of 2,800 feet of track.  Part of the double track has been in use for some time with the company's gasoline-powered locomotive operating over it.

 

With one other station, the plant at Bainbridge holds the distinction of having the largest traveling-grate stokers in the world, each measuring 24 feet wide by 28 feet long.  The Bainbridge steam generators are the largest fired with anthracite stokers.



Soldier News continued - 1945

Soldiers Receive Discharges

 

Lt. Col. Carl Cook Discharged from Army Air Forces

Afton Enterprise, October 11, 1945

 

Carl L. Cook, son of Mr. and Mrs. Louis W Cook of Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], and formerly of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], was discharged from the Army Air Forces at the Separation Center at Mitchell Field Sept. 30.  He had attained the rank of Lieutenant Colonel during nearly five years of service and will retain his rank in the Officers Reserve Corps on inactive status.  Before entering the service in February, 1941, Mr. Cook was assistant quality manager at the Scintilla Magneto Division.  He has had duty in nearly all parts of this country and has been overseas for 17 months.  In October 1942 he was sent to the Alaskan Theater for two months and in May 1944, to the European Theater.  In Europe he was stationed in England, France, Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany.  He wears the American Defense ribbon, the Asiatic-Pacific ribbon with one battle star and the European ribbon with five battle stars.  Mr. Cook was a graduate of Afton Central School and attended Cornell University.  His father, Louis Cook was employed as Station Agent at Afton for several years.  Mrs. Cook was prominent in Girl Scout activities and other local organizations.  [Afton Enterprise, Oct. 1, 1945]

 

Pfc. Edward Doupe Discharged from Army

Bainbridge News & Republican, November 1, 1945

 

Pfc. Edward Doupe received an Honorable Discharge from the Army at Fort Dix, N.J., Oct. 23, and has joined his wife, Mary Payne Doupe, in Binghamton.  He has served for two and one-half years in the Pacific area taking part in the Solomon and Philippine campaigns.  He was stationed in Japan at the time he was released and sent to the States.  Private Doupe wears the Combat Infantryman's Badge, Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with two stars, Philippine Liberation Ribbon with one star, and the Good Conduct Ribbon.  He arrived home Wednesday where he was greeted by his two-year-old son, Gary, whom he had never seen.

 

Pfc. George Arakelian Discharged from Army

Bainbridge News & Republican, November 1, 1945

 

Pfc. George Arakelian has received an Honorable Discharge from the Army after serving for more than four years.  A greater part of this time he spent as a gunner on an Army transport, sailing to ports all over the world.  He wears the American Theatre Ribbon, European-African-Middle East Ribbon, Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon, and Good Conduct Ribbon.

 

T/Sgt. Donald K. Weat Discharged from Army

Bainbridge News & Republican, November 1, 1945

 

T/Sgt. Donald K. Wheat received an Honorable Discharge from the Army Oct. 4 at Camp Gordon, Ga.  Technical Sergeant Wheat was in the service for more than four years, serving part of this time in the European-African-Middle East Theatre, and Trinidad.

 



Obituaries (August 29)

The sympathy of the community is extended to Mrs. Frances Proutey, of Bennettsville, in the loss of her third son in less than 16 months.  Her youngest son, Fred Eugene Proutey, 17, was instantly killed Sunday afternoon shortly after 3 o'clock in his attempt to get out of the way of a falling tree at the Gregory farm, near Harpursville.  Young Proutey was assisting his brother-in-law, Elwood Gregory, cutting down the tree when the accident occurred.  Mrs. Proutey lost her first son, Pfc. Earl Terry, June 20, 1944, in France, and her second son, Pfc. Ralph R. Terry, Feb. 9, 1945, in Germany.  Born in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] Mar. 26, 1928, Fred was the son of Mrs. Frances Proutey and the late Charles Proutey.  He attended Bainbridge High School and was employed at the Casein at the time of his death.  Besides his mother he is survived by a brother Charles Proutey, of Hartford, Conn.; two sisters, Mrs. Elwood Gregory, of Harpursville, and Mrs. Ray Bailey, of Sidney; a half-brother, Wayne Terry, of Bennettsville; and a half-sister, Mrs. Egbert Riley, of North Sanford.  Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock in Colwell's Chapel with the Rev. Leon Lovelace, of Belden, officiating.  Bearers were:  Leo Michel, Charles McPherson, Edward Alcott, and Fred Branham, all of Bennettsville.  Burial was in Greenlawn Cemetery in Bainbridge.  This is the third fatal accident to happen to Bainbridge residents in less than two weeks.  Daniel Conpropst died Oct. 16 as a result of injuries received the day before when a steel beam fell on him while employed by Frank Lewis & Sons and Paul Ahrens lived bout 10 minutes after his truck was truck by the afternoon passenger train of the D.& H. last Tuesday at the Scott street crossing in Bainbridge.  He was an employee of Chas. H. Eldred & Co., Inc.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Nov. 1, 1945]

 

Mrs. Nellie (Caswell) Carruth, oldest daughter of Harry and Ellen (Brooks) Caswell, Afton residents for many years, died at her home in Middletown, Sunday morning, September 16th.  Burial was in Sidney [Delaware Co., NY] Wednesday at 1:30 p.m.  She is survived by her husband Arthur Carruth, formerly of Afton, her daughter Mrs. Grace Harmon, two grandchildren, her oldest brother Albert Caswell who resides in Middletown and several nieces and nephews.  Mr. and Mrs. Carruth celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Sept. 18th, 1938.  [Afton Enterprise, Sept. 20, 1945]

Frank L. Carr, 75, of Cadyville [Clinton Co., NY], son of the late Henry G. and Mary A. Carr, former well known residents of Afton, died Monday at his home.  He is survived by his wife, Gertrude Tormy Carr; two brothers, William of Afton and George of Brookfield, N.Y., and several nieces, nephews and cousins.  Funeral services will be held at the Tabor Funeral Home, Afton Friday at 2:30 p.m.  The Rev. James E. Wolfe will officiate with burial in Glenwood Cemetery [Afton,, Chenango Co., NY].  Committal services will be conducted at the grave by the Afton Masonic Lodge.  [Afton Enterprise, Sept. 13, 1945]

The funeral of William G. Olds, well known resident of Youngs [Delaware Co., NY], was held last Thursday from the Joyce funeral home.  Burial was in Evergreen Hill cemetery [Unadilla, Otsego Co., NY] where the committal service was in charge of G.L. Halsey lodge of Odd Fellows, of which Mr. Olds was a member.  Rev. George Youngs of Athens, a former resident of Unadilla and Youngs, officiated.  Mr. Olds was born in Burlington [Otsego Co., NY] February 19, 1869, a son of Gilbert and Mary Fairchild Olds.  Forty-eight years ago this August he married Miss Lillian Berner of East Worcester.  They established their home at Youngs and have always resided at Youngs.  For many years he was employed in the creamery at Youngs.  He is survived by his wife and three sons, Lynn and Clayton, who reside at home, Clyde, Guilford and four grandchildren.  [Sidney Enterprise, July 12, 1945]

 

Marriages (August 29)

Nineveh [Broome Co., NY]:  The tenth anniversary of the wedding of the Rev. Wm. H. Sawtelle and wife was celebrated at the Parsonage on the evening of the 11th inst., in the form of a surprise and tin wedding, by the members of the Presbyterian church and society.  They first met at the residence of Mr. Franklin Edgerton then moved in procession to the Parsonage with their tin supplies and made a grand rush into the abode of the quiet home of the Dominie, where the evening was spent in a very sociable and agreeable manner by all, old and young.  In the course of the evening the tin ware, with other valuable presents were arranged and an appropriate and well-timed speech was made by Mr. G. Root, to which the groom of ten years made a pleasant and fitting reply.  With the tin ware and other presents, which were all useful and valuable, was a well filled purse of greenbacks.  Aside from the members of the Society were Mr. E.C. Smith, wife and family, Mrs. E.A. Smith, Mr. Corry Beadsley and wife, Mr G.W. Edgerton, wife and family, Mr. A. Manderville and wife all from South Coventry; W.E. Newton and wife from Coventryville, and Mr. A.B. Smith and wife from Greene.  As the hour of departure drew near all were invited to the lower room of the Parsonage and united in prayer with Mr. G.W. Edgerton, after which the company were entertained with singing and music from the piano.  On the whole it was a very pleasant and satisfactory surprise and no doubt will result in cementing the bond of union between pastor and people.  [Bainbridge Republican, Dec. 16, 1876]



 

 

\\

 

Mr. & Mrs. Carl Olson

 

Married:  Mr. and Mrs. Carl Edward Olson cut the cake at a reception following their recent marriage in new Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].  She is the former Barbara Ann Bartlett, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Bartlett of New Berlin, and he is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Thage Olson of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]..  Miss Mary Lou Bartlett of Sidney, sister of the bride, was maid of honor. [Binghamton Press, July 31, 1954]

 

Moran - Mange:  Miss Elsie Mange, daughter of Mrs. and Mrs. G. William Mangs, Ritton street [Sidney, Delaware Co., NY], was married Saturday afternoon to Pfc. George H. Moran at the Methodist church by the Rev. William J. Dubrick, in the presence of the immediate families.  The maid of honor was Miss Leatrice Kenyon and the best man was Robert Rosenstein, seaman, stationed at Sampson.  The bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Moran of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY].  He has been overseas for two years and is at a hospital at Cleveland, Ohio where they will make their home.  A reception was held at the home of the bride after the ceremony.  Mrs. Moran attended Sidney Central School and was a member of the senior class.  [Sidney Enterprise, July 12, 1945]

 

Mr. and Mrs. Jacob A. Storm will celebrate their golden wedding anniversary at their  home, 3 Clinton street [Sidney, Delaware Co., NY], on Friday, July 13.  the only recognition of the day will be a family dinner at Hotel DeCumber, with their son-in-law, and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Sweeney, as host and hostess.  Besides Mr. and Mrs. Storm as guests of honor, their son Cpl. Frank Storm of Troop C, and Mrs. Storm and their small son, Fred, the only grandchild of the couple, and Miss Dorothy Dodge Storm, a foster daughter, will attend the dinner.  Miss Ada Blenis and Jacob A. Storm both of Sidney, were married at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Blenis, in Cartwright avenue July 13, 1895, by the Rev. T.A. Carlson, minister of the First Congregational church of Sidney.  With the exception of seven years' residence in Ohio, they have been residents of this village.  He was a glass blower in the old glass works of Sidney.  Mr. Storm has been active in civic affairs of the village holding a number of village offices, and both are active in affairs of the village holding a number of village offices, and both are active in the Congregational church of which they are members and in the church Sunday school.  [Sidney Enterprise, July 12, 1945]

 

An interlocutory decree of divorce was duly granted Marion Strain Becker against her husband, Frank H. Becker, both of Unadilla, N.Y. [Otsego Co., NY], by Hon. A. Lindsay O'Connor, J.S.C., at Special term, Oneonta, N.Y., on the 23rd day of June, 1945.  Mrs. Decker resumed her maiden name, Marion Strain.  Harold C. Vrooman, attorney, represented Mrs. Becker.  [Sidney Enterprise, July 12, 1945]

 

In a simple ceremony held July 14 at the Air Transport Command's European Division base in Valley, Wales, Technical Sergeant John B. Sornberger of Windsor [Broome Co., NY], was married to Pfc. Dorothy M. Saunders, of Newcastle, Ind.  The ceremony was performed at the Parish Church by the Rev. R. Banks, rector.  The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Goebel Saunders, of Newcastle, Ind.  She entered the service in April, 1944, and went overseas in February, 1945.  the bridegroom son of Frank G. Sornberger, of Windsor, has been overseas since January, 1944.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Sept. 13, 1945]

 

The marriage of Miss Mary Ava Shaw, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Shaw, of Troy [Rensselaer Co., NY], and Lt. Frederick Alexander Siemicki, son of Mr. and Mrs. Siemicki, of Franklin [Delaware Co., NY], was solemnized recently at Post Chapel No. 1, Maxwell Field, Montgomery, Ala.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Sept. 13, 1945]

 

Mr. and Mrs. Cheater Smith, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], announce the engagement of their daughter, Lorena Smith, to Gaston Isliker, Jr., of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], son of Mr. and Mrs. Gaston Isliker.  No date has been set for the wedding.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Sept. 13, 1945]

 

Marriage Notices - Bainbridge Republican, April 1, 1876

 

SNYDER - COURTNEY:  At the home of the bride in Sidney Plains, March 28th, 1876, by Rev. N.S. Reynolds, George M. Snyder and Miss Mary Courtney, all of Sidney Plains [Delaware Co., NY].

 

FRANK - SALISBURY:  In Nineveh, March 22d, 1876, by Rev. W.H. Sawtelle, Mr. Nicholas Frank to Miss Ella A. Salisbury, both of Sanford [Broome Co., NY].

 

HEATH - SEWARD:  In Nineveh, March 22d, 1876, by Rev., W.H. Sawtelle, Mr. Isaac W. Heath, of Onaquago [Delaware Co., NY], to Miss Flora C. Seward, of Doraville [Broome Co., NY].

 

LYON - FOSBURY:  In Afton, March 21st, 1876, by Rev. E.T. Jacobs, Mr. Henry Lyon, of Belvidere, N.Y. [Allegany Co., NY], to Miss Jane Fosbury, of Bainbridge [Chennago Co., NY] 

 



Soldier News continued - 1945

Gordon Perry Awarded Posthumous Purple Heart

Sidney Enterprise, July 12, 1945

Guy E. Perry, 11 Union Street [Sidney, Delaware Co., NY], recently received the Purple Heart which has been awarded posthumously, to his son, 1st Lt. Gordon F. Perry.  Lieutenant Perry was reported missing on May 29, 1944, while returning from one of his missions not far from the coast of England.  The letter from Henry L. Stimson, secretary of war, was as follows:

 

"At the request of the President, I write to inform you that the Purple Heart has ben awarded, posthumously, to your son, 1st Lt. Gordon F. Perry of the Air corps, who sacrificed his life in defense of his country.  Little that we can do or say will console you for the death of your loved one.  We profoundly appreciate the greatness of your loss, for in a very real sense the loss suffered by any of us in this battle for our country is a loss shared by all of us. When the medal, which you will shortly receive reaches you, I want you to know that with it goes my sincerest sympathy and the hope that time and the victory of our cause will finally lighten the burden of your grief."

 

Lieutenant Perry was born June 5, 1910, and graduated form Sidney High School in 1939.  He entered service in the infantry in January, 1942.  After ten months, he was transferred to the Air Corps and received his basic training at Macon, Ga., his primary at Arcadia, Fla., and his preflight at Maxell Field, Ala.  He graduated from Spence Field, Moultrie, Ga., in October, 1943, and received his silver wings and was assigned to overseas duty in March, 1944.  He married Miss Madeline Deegan of Endicott on January 3, 1944. She now resides in Endicott. 

 

Winfield MacPherson Participates in Several Campaigns

Afton Enterprise, August 30, 1945

 

Fifth Air Force Service Command W. Pacific:  Winfield S. MacPherson son of Mr. and Mrs. Winfield S. MacPherson, 17 Broad St., Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY], has been awarded the drivers qualification badge.  He is assigned to an airdrome squadron under the Fifth Air Force Service Command now in the West Pacific.  Pfc. MacPherson was a truck driver of the Eastern Hay and Coal Company of Binghamton before he entered the service three years ago.  Overseas 18 months, Pfc. MacPherson participated in three major campaigns, New Guinea, the Netherlands, East Indies and the Philippines.  He is authorized to wear the Asiatic Pacific ribbon with two campaign stars, the Philippine Liberation ribbon with one campaign star and the Good Conduct ribbon.  [Afton Enterprise, August 30, 1945]

 

T/Sgt Ralph Walling Discharged

Bainbridge News & Republican, Sept. 13, 1945

 

T/Sgt. Ralph Walling was discharged form the Army Aug. 28 at Fort Dix, N.J., after serving for more than four years, three years of this time in the European Theatre of Operations.  In June, 1942, he landed in Iceland and later went to Scotland and England.  He went into Normandy during the invasion and served in France, Luxembourg and Belgium.  During the Battle of the Bulge he was confined to a hospital with an injured back, and has been confined to the hospital several times since then because of his back.  He also was in Frankfort and Eisenoch, Germany. Technical Sergeant Walling holds the Bronze Star Medal, the European Ribbon with five battle stars, and the Good Conduct Medal with two. 

 

Memorial Service for Alfred Corgan

Sidney Enterprise, July 12, 1945

 

Pfc. Alfred G. Corgan, who was killed in action April 12, was honored Sunday afternoon at a memorial service in the Unadilla Methodist church at 2:30 o'clock.  The service was largely attended by relatives and friends.  Pfc. Corgan was a paratrooper in the Screaming Eagle division.

 

Joyce-Bell post, American legion, attended in a body, accompanied by Pvt. John Franklin Van Cott, who had just arrived in this country.  He was a member of the 104th (Timberwolf) division and is home on furlough.

 

Rev. Clayton Hoag, pastor of the church, conducted the service reading the same Scripture from the same Bible which was read at his mother's funeral eight years ago.  The Bible was one that the boy worked for and earned when 13 years old.  Miss Pauline Cooper and Walter Bacon sang a duet, "Beyond the Sun When Day is Done."  At the close of the service a flag was presented to the family and the service was closed by the sounding of taps by Dale Chamberlin. 

 

 

Marriages (August 28)

One of the prettiest of early fall weddings occurred Wednesday morning, Sept 5 at 11 o'clock at Christ Church, Guilford, when Miss Katherine Anne Koot, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Frank F. Koot, became the bride of Douglas Wilson Anthony, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], son of Mrs. Myrtle I. Wilson, of Guilford, and Reinhold D. Anthony, of Norwich.  The Rev. Philip C. Pearson, rector, officiated.  Beautiful baskets of autumn flowers filled the chancel and white gladioli and the three-branch lighted candlesticks symbolizing the Holy Trinity graced the altar.  As the strains of Lohengrin's wedding march began to sound, the bride entered the church on the arm of her brother-in-law, Leroy B. Coe, of the Chenango Lake road, Norwich.  She was met at the altar by the groom, and joined by the bride's sister, Mrs. Leroy B. Coe, acting as matron of honor, and the groom's uncle, John E. Hicks, acting as best man.  The impressive marriage service of the Episcopal Church was read.  The church organist, Mrs. Stuart B. Ives, rendered an interlude of appropriate music prior to the wedding. The bride choose a costume of sheer gray wool with matching hat and wore a corsage of white roses.  Her matron of honor's dress was identical with the bride's, only in beige with green hat and her corsage was of Talisman roses.  The men in the wedding party wore boutonnieres of white rose buds.  The bride and groom took their places in front of the church and received congratulations, mid a shower of rice. The happy couple and the immediate relatives of both families of the bride and groom left for oxford where a reception and luncheon took place at the Oxford inn.  Very soon after Mr. and Mrs. Anthony left for a two weeks' honeymoon to be spent in the North Woods.  The bride's going away costume was brown with matching accessories.  The bride was guest of honor at several pre-nuptial events, one held at the Sherburne Inn, another at the Hotel Chenango. Mrs. Vivian Deery and Mrs. John E.  Hicks also gave variety showers.  The bride has been a valued employee of the New York State Electric & Gas Corporation for some time. The groom has received his honorable discharge from the U.S. Army, having served nearly three years of the seven he was in the service in the Pacific Theatre of War. He held a rating of Technical Sergeant when  he was discharged.   [Bainbridge News & Republican, Sept. 13, 1945]

 

Hoke - Cooper:  Miss Norma Mae Cooper, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Otto Ray of 2 Orchard street, Sidney [Delaware Co., NY] and T/Sgt Kendall E. Hoke, son of Mr. and Mrs. Earl I. Hoke of 22-1/2 Pleasant street, Sidney, were married at 5 o'clock Sunday afternoon in the Sidney Methodist church.  The Rev. Wilton J. Dubrick, performed the double ring ceremony in the presence of near relatives and a few close friends.  The bride wore a blue street-length dress with white accessories and carried an arm bouquet of white roses.  Miss Alta Marie Cooper, sister of the bride, was maid of honor.  She wore a pink street-length dress with white accessories and carried an arm bouquet of delphiniums and white flowers.  The bridegroom had for his best man, S/Sgt. George Peck of Unadilla.  Mrs. Cooper, mother of the bride wore a green dress with a corsage of pink roses, while Mrs. Hoke, mother of the bridegroom, was attired in a navy blue dress and a corsage of red roses.  Both wore white accessories.  Traditional wedding music was played by Mrs. Earl Case. The church was decorated with flowers of the season.  A reception was held at the home of the bride's parents where refreshments were served, including a three-tier wedding cake ornamented by a miniature bride and bridegroom.  Mr. and Mrs. Hoke left Tuesday for Romulus, Mich. where he is in the inspection office at the air base. Sergeant Hoke has been in army service six years.  He was in the ground crew of the Air Force of the Pacific area for 37 months.  Mr. Hoke graduated form Sidney Central High school in 1943, and was employed in the engineering department of the Scintilla Magneto Division.  [Sidney Enterprise, July 5, 1945]

 

Mr. and Mrs. Edwin J. Galley of Sidney Center [Delaware Co., NY] announce the engagement of their daughter, Glenda Louise Galley to Private First Class Delvin E. DeForest of Poughkeepsie [Dutchess Co.], N.Y.  [Sidney Enterprise, July 5, 1945]

Miss Bertha Francis Smith, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Emerson Smith of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY] and Cecil T. Laughman, were united in marriage in the Federated church in Unadilla Saturday afternoon at 2:00. The double ring service was performed by rev. Archie W. Benedict pastor.  They will reside with the bride's parents.  Mr. and Mrs. Laughman have been employed by Scintilla, Sidney during the past several years.  [Sidney Enterprise, July 5, 1945]

Joyce - Updyke:  Mrs. Ethel H. Updyke, daughter of Mrs. Charles Hinckley of Royal, Pa. and Lewis S. Joyce, son of Mrs. Walter Joyce of Sidney, both of Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY], were married in Frist Methodist parsonage, Oneonta, Saturday at 12:30 noon.  Dr. Harold Buckingham performed the double ring ceremony.  They were attended by Mr. and Mrs. Harry Bretton of Oneonta.  The bride wore a two-piece linen suit, with white skirt and purple jacket.  Her corsage was of roses and delphiniums.  Mrs. Bretton chose a white print jersey dress and wore a corsage of red roses.  A family dinner and reception followed the ceremony at the Rex.  Mr. and Mrs. Joyce left for Elmira, Rochester and Syracuse on their wedding trip.  On their return they will reside at 45 Main street, Oneonta.  The bride is a graduate of Endicott High school.  She is employed as cashier at the Puritan store.  Mr. Joyce who is a graduate of Gilbertsville High school, is the owner of the Joyce Riding academy, dance hall and roller skating rink.  [Sidney Enterprise, July 5, 1945]

Herdeker - Burnside:  Mrs. Olive Burnside and Albert J. Herdeker, both of Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], were married Saturday night, June 30, by the Rev. Wilton J. Dubrick, pastor of the Sidney Methodist church. they were attended by Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Burnside.  They will reside at 54 Main street, Sidney.  [Sidney Enterprise, July 5, 1945]

Marriage Notices

Chenango Telegraph, April 1, 1835

In Sherburne, on the 18th inst. by the Rev. L .A. Barrows, Jared Chapel, esq. of Pitcher Springs [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Savia Stebbins, daughter of Gaius Stebbins, esq. of Lebanon [Madison Co., NY].

At Hamilton [Madison Co., NY], on the 21st ult.  by the Rev. John Smitzer, Mr. Oliver T. Hammond, late member of the Hamilton Institution to Miss A. Louisa Prentiss, recent Teacher in the Charlestown Female Seminary, Mass. 

Obituaries (August 28)

Funeral services for Edson J. Love, 73, prominent Walton [Delaware Co., NY] farmer, were held at Lyon Brothers Chapel in Walton, Saturday afternoon.  The Rev. Charles H. Jons, pastor of First Baptist church officiated.  Burial was in Walton cemetery.  Mr. Love died Wednesday, last week, at Smith hospital.  He conducted a large farm in Bob Brook Valley, two and a half miles south of Walton.  Surviving are his wife, three daughters, Mrs. Edward Bailey, El Ceritto, Cal.; Mrs. Ralph Condon and Miss Ruth love, Walton, a son Howard Love, Walton, and three sisters, Mrs. Elmer Coulter, Walton, Mrs. Lewis More, Deposit, and Mrs. Lettie St. John, Sidney.  [Sidney Enterprise, July 7, 1945]

 

Sidney joins Unadilla in mourning the demise of the Reverend Yale Lyon who passed away, Monday, at Fox Memorial hospital in Oneonta, where he had been a patient since Friday.  The son of Walter R. and Florence (Smith) Lyon, he was born in Nelson, N.Y., October 3, 1874.  For 31 years he served faithfully as rector of St. Mathews Episcopal church in Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], going to that village, July 13, 1910 .  Ill health forced him to resign. Since then he has been pastor emeritus.  Mr. Lyon married Miss Blanch North, Unadilla, April 22, 1914.  He was much interested in the youth of that community and on Sept. 10, 1910 he founded Boy Scout troop one of Unadilla, which is today the oldest troop with a continuous charter in the United States.  Mr. Lyon served this troop as scout master for 28 years.  For years he was archdeacon of the Susquehanna district and at the time of his death, was serving as town historian.  He is survived by his wife, and a brother, Wayne Lyon, Indianapolis, Ind.  Last rites will be conducted from St. Mathews church Friday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock, the Reverend Francis Blake, rector, will officiate.  Interment will be in St. Mathews churchyard [Unadilla, NY].  [Sidney Enterprise, July 5, 1945]

 

Irving R. Brown, esteemed resident of this village [Sidney, Delaware Co., NY], residing at 35 Cartwright avenue, passed away Sunday evening, July 1st, at the Sidney hospital the victim of a stroke which he suffered in the afternoon of that day.  He was the son of the late John H. and Frances (King) Brown and was born December 11, 1894, in Fair Haven, Connecticut.  He had resided in Sidney during the past ten years and was employed as a machinist in Scintilla Magneto Division Bendix Aviation Corporation in this village, until 10 months ago when he resigned that position.  He married Miss Lena Tibbetts of Lewiston, Maine, who passed away January 2, 1938.  "Brownie" as he was affectionately known in family circle and by close friends, served in the United States Navy during World War 1.  He was a member of Charles L. Jacobi Post No. 183, American Legion. He was also a member of the First Congregational church in Sidney.  The bearers were Guy Perry, Theodore Anagnost, Asa Decker, Oscar Shank, William DePloey, Reuben Davidson.  Left to mourn his demise is a sister, Mrs. Edith M. Purchase of West Springfield, Mass.; a brother, Charles L. of Branford, Conn. also several nieces and nephews.  Funeral services will be conducted from the Carr-Landers Funeral Chapel, Thursday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock the Reverend Wilton J. DeBrick officiating.  Interment in Prospect Hill cemetery [Sidney, NY].  Attending the last rites from away were his sister, Mrs. Edward R. Purchase and Mr. Purchase of West Springfield, Mass.  [Sidney Enterprise, July 5, 1945]

 

George W. McKee of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], died suddenly Sunday evening at his home just south of the village.  He is survived by his wife, Lillian; two daughters Dorothy L. McKee of Delmar N.Y. and Mrs. Marion M. Cook of Afton; a son Lt. George McKee of the U.S. Army Air Force in Waycross, Ga. and two grandchildren.  Funeral services were held at his late residence in Afton Thursday at 2 p.m.  The Rev. Clifford E. Webb officiating.  Burial was in Glenwood Cemetery.  [Afton Enterprise, Sept. 27, 1945]

The death of Mr. George W. McKee occurred suddenly Sunday evening, September 23, at his home just south of the village of Afton [Chenango Co., NY].  Mr. McKee, who had been a resident of Afton for many years, was born in Pierpont, N.Y., February 22, 1862.  In 1904 he came to Afton and was employed by George Decker as a grocer's clerk, in which capacity he continued for eleven years.  On May 12, 1915 he was united in marriage with Miss Lillian Decker.  The couple moved to a farm at the edge of the village on the South Main Street Highway where the home has been maintained until the present time.  Mr. McKee is survived by his wife, Lillian; two daughters, Miss Dorothy McKee of Delmar, N.Y. and Mrs. Lawrence N. Cook, now at Afton; a son, Lt. George I. McKee, stationed at Saycross, Ga. and two grandchildren, Jack and James Cook.  Mr. McKee had been a member of the Harpursville Odd Fellows Lodge for over forty years and had held the position of chairman of the Board of Assessors of the Town of Afton for twenty-three years.  Funeral services were held from the home Thursday afternoon, September 27, with the Rev. Clifford E. Webb, pastor of the Presbyterian Church, officiating.  Interment was at Glenwood Cemetery in Afton.  Mr. McKee leaves, besides the bereaved family, a host of long known friends and fellow-workers who have been saddened at the loss of one who had so long taken a worthy place in the life of the community.  [Afton Enterprise, Oct. 4, 1945]

 

Mrs. Alice Hafele Place died at her home in Walton [Delaware Co., NY], Wednesday night, Sept. 5.  Mrs. Place suffered an attack of pneumonia about a week ago and due to her advanced age gradually failed until the end came.  Mrs. Place was born at Union Grove [Delaware Co., NY], Nov. 18, 1854.  The greater part of her life was spent there and at Margaretville.  About 12 years ago she came to live with her son, Pleman Hafele, at Walton, and has resided here since.  Her sight failed 10 years ago and in spite of this affliction she remained active and cheerful.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Sept. 13, 1945]

The entire community were shocked last Tuesday afternoon by the announcement of the death of George R. Porter.  Mr. Porter lives about two miles from the village, and after coming to town that afternoon was on his way home.  He stopped a few moments at the door of H.C. Gregory, leaving his horse unhitched, when the horse started off up the road.  Mr. Porter called to the horse, and failing to stop it, ran and got on the hind end of his low spring board wagon and managed to gain the seat and secure the lines.  The horse continued to run, Mr. Porter being unable to check him until they reached the house of Mr. Redfield, across the upper bridge, when the horse came to a halt.  Mr. Porter called for help and Mrs. Redfield came out and asked if he wished the gate to the lane opened.  He replied no, and asked her to hold his horse.  She stepped to the horse's head, and Mr. Sands and others then coming up saw that something was the matter with Mr. Porter, and procuring a chair proceeded to help him out.  As he was lifted form the wagon he remarked that he was dying, and as he was placed in the chair, breathed his last.  It is supposed that he died from heart disease, with which he has long been troubled, being aggravated by the excitement of his horse running.  Mr. Porter was about 73 years of age, a member of the Baptist church, a consistent Christian man, beloved and respected by all who knew him.  His son Wm. Porter and wife were at Philadelphia, and were telegraphed for and returned immediately.--Unadilla Times  [Bainbridge Republican, Sept. 2, 1876]

BCHS Class of 1939 - Part 3

Bainbridge Central High School - Class of 1939

Senior Portraits

"Echo" 1939

 

 

Carl Hutchinson

 

"You're very witty and always gay,

Success is sure to come your way."

 

George James

 

"You are all for the fairer sex,

Now we wonder who'll be next."

 

Grace Johnson

 

"Without you, Gracie, what would we do?

Our dance decorations were all due to you."

 

Richard Lewis

 

"When it comes to cooking, you're the best.

Just keep on trying, that's the test."

 

Evelyn Livingston

 

"You're quiet, brilliant and sincere,

We hope you'll never forget us here."

 

Bert Lord

 

Although you're not a genius born,

We know you're a 'Whiz' on your E flat horn."



Obituaries (August 26)

Philip Bell, of Port Jervis [Orange Co., NY], suffered a heart attack and died at the wheel of his auto in Middletown [Orange Co., NY] last Tuesday.  As Bell Collapsed his car swerved to the right, went over an embankment and came to a stop against a tree at the edge of a brook.  His wife, Ella, who was with him in the car, told police later that she saw her husband slump over the wheel and leaped from the auto just before it went over the embankment.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Sept. 13, 1945]

Mrs. Alice Rhinevault Knapp, 31, of Montrose [PA], died of a broken neck after the convertible coupe which she was driving got out of control near Lake Carey, Pa., between Tunkhannock and Montrose, tore out several posts from a guard rail and overturned several times.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Sept. 13, 1945]

Mrs. Emma Sullivan, 58, of Owego [Tioga Co., NY], was instantly killed Sunday night when she was struck by a freight train at a crossing in Owego.  According to a watchman, who was on duty at the crossing, Mrs. Sullivan had gone under the gates which were down at the time, and ignoring his yells of warning, walked into the path of the on-coming train.  Apparently she then realized her danger and began to run, but was hit and thrown a distance of 90 feet.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Sept. 13, 1945]

The community was startled on Saturday morning last by the announcement that James Hayes, an old and much esteemed resident of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], was early that morning found dead in his bed.  Mr. Hayes had for several months been in poor health, and was evidently gradually failing, yet his friends did not anticipate that his end was so near.  He had nearly reached his seventy-fourth year, and during his long life he has been a model of industry and integrity.  Unassuming in his manner, pleasing in his intercourse with all, and scrupulously honest, he had won the confidence and respect of all classes, who sympathize with his daughter, the only surviving member of the family, his wife having died several years since.  His funeral was largely attended on Sunday afternoon, Rev. D.E. Loveridge officiating.  Deceased was a brother of E.T. Hayes, Esq.--Union  [Bainbridge Republican, Aug. 12, 1876]

Death Notices

Bainbridge Republican, Aug. 19, 1876
HAYES - In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] August 5th, 1876, Mr. James Hayes, aged 73 years.

LLOYD - In Insane Asylum at Madison, Wis., July 14th, 1876, Mr. Thomas S. Lloyd, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]. 

WILCOX - In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], August 5th, 1876, Miss Jemima Wilcox, Aged 63 years.

Bainbridge Republican, Aug. 26, 1876
IRELAND - In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Aug. 16th, 1876, Mr. Jacob B. Ireland, aged 69 years.

INGERSOLL - In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], Aug. 18th, 1876, David Ingersoll, aged 86 years.

BASSETT - In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], Aug. 18th, 1876, Mrs. Sukey Bassett, aged 83 years.

Chenango Telegraph, Apr. 29, 1835
In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Mrs. Jane Farr, widow of the late Bela Farr, aged 53 years.

In Butternuts Otsego co. on the 5th inst. after a protracted illness, Mr. James H. Preston, formerly of this town [Norwich, NY], aged about 60 years. 

 

Soldier News continued - 1945

Lt. Bernard Strait, Former POW, At Home

Sidney Enterprise, July 5, 1945

 

Lt. Bernard Strait, Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY], who was liberated as a prisoner of war at Bargh, Germany, has been returned to the United States and is spending a 50-day leave with his wife at 62 Maple Street.  He was with the 8th Air Force operating from England and was shot down over Frankfort, February 4th, 1944.  He was liberated May 1 by the Russians.  [Sidney Enterprise, July 5, 1945]

 

S-Sgt. Frederick R. Heck Killed in Action

Sidney Enterprise, July 5, 1945

 

An Oneonta soldier who left with Co. G, S-Sgt. Frederick R. Heck was killed in action on Okinawa May 13, according to a War Department telegram received by the parents, Mr. and Mrs. Amand Heck of 14 Telford street Oneonta.

 

M-Sgt. Charles G. Segar Killed in Action

Sidney Enterprise, July 5, 1945

 

Mr. and Mrs. Lynn Segar of Walton [Delaware Co., NY] have been advised by the War Department that their son, M-Sgt. Charles G. Segar, was killed in action on Okinawa, May 21.  The Walton sergeant, with more than 100 points to his credit, had been expected home daily, either on discharge or furlough.  He wrote his parents that he expected to get back to the United States soon.  He would have been 24 years old on June 13.  Sergeant Segar joined C.F.N.Y.N.G. before the unit was mustered into federal service in October, 1940.  With other members he received basic training at Fort McClennan, Ala., before the Jap sneak attack on Pearl Harbor.  He was with the 27th Division when it was rushed across the continent to the Pacific Coast after that attack, and later shipped overseas to the Hawaiian Islands.  Still with the fighting outfit supervising truck dispatching, Sergeant Segar saw action on the Marshall Islands and at Saipan, before Okinawa.  

 

Pfc. Socrates Nellis Honored at Reunion

Bainbridge News & Republican, September 13, 1945

On Sunday, Sept. 9, Mr. and Mrs. Rexford Silvey held a family reunion in honor of their grandson, Pfc. Socrates Nellis.  Those present were:  Mrs. Edna Nellis, James Nellis and fiancé, Miss Birdella Daley, of Oneonta; Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Silvey, of Beaver Meadows; Mr. and Mrs. Lynn Lanfair and family, of Otego; Mr. and Mrs. Harold Miller and family, of Oneonta; Frank Silvey, and Mr. and Mrs. Charles Silvey and family, of Bainbridge.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Sept. 13, 1945]

 

Otto Neidlinger on Bombed Ship

Sidney Enterprise, July 5, 1945

 

AOM 3/C Otto C. Neidlinger, son of Otto F. Neidlinger of Bainbridge, R.D.3 [Chenango Co., NY], was one of the heroes aboard "Big Ben," the now famous carrier U.S.S. Franklin, whose miraculous survival of an aerial bombing in the Pacific has become one of the most dramatic sea stories of the war.  The ship which the Japanese boasted they had sunk is now safely back in New York.  The Franklin was operating 50 miles off Japan with a fast carrier task force on the morning of March 19.  Many of her planes were on desk loaded with bombs, rockets and machine gun ammunition, preparing to take off.  It was at this, her most vulnerable  moment, that a Jap dive-bomber streaked out of the clouds and released two 500-pound bombs.

Marriages (August 27)

On Tuesday, Aug. 28, Mr. and Mrs. T.W. Miller celebrated their golden wedding anniversary at their home in Andes [Delaware Co., NY].  The affair was a surprise made for them by their two sons and their wives.  A turkey dinner was served at noon, and open house was held at their home during the afternoon and evening, when old friends dropped in to congratulate them.  They were married Aug. 28, 1895, by the Rev. James Bruce at the home of the bride.  They began housekeeping in the Heimer house, now the home of Robert Liddle, and lived there for two years. They have lived in their present home ever since.  Mr. Miller and Claud Crawford purchased the Andes Recorder and on Feb. 26, 1894, came to Andes.  Four years later Mr. Miller purchased Mr. Crawford's interest and conducted the Recorder until 1937, when ill health compelled its discontinuation.  Since then he has conducted a job printing office.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Sept. 13, 1945]

Mr. and Mrs. C.H. Oliver, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], announce the marriage of their daughter, Janet Ruth, to Donald L. Scott, S 1/C, USNR, son of Mrs. Daisy Scott, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 6, at 8:30 p.m., at South Mill, S.C.  The ceremony was performed by the Naval Chaplain.  The bride wore a gray wool suit with black accessories and a corsage of red roses.  After a brief honeymoon, they will reside in Ocean View, Va.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Sept. 13, 1945]

On Saturday evening last, at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Louis Fisher of Caswell Street, Miss Shirley Fisher of Afton [Chenango Co., NY] was united in marriage with William Harold Davy of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY] by Rev. Kenneth Kingston of the Methodist Church.  The bride was attended by Mrs. Karl VanSchaick and the groom by his brother, Warren Davy.  The home was very tastefully decorated, the couple standing under an attractive floral arch, in the presence of a few intimate friends and relatives.  After the serving of delicious refreshments, the young couple left on a short wedding trip.  On their return they will make their home in Coventry.  [Afton Enterprise, Sept. 6, 1945]

The engagement of Miss Dorothy Sands to Sanford N. Williams was announced by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Orin Sands of Vallonia Springs [Broome Co., NY] at a party in her home Friday afternoon.  Mr. Williams is a grandson of Mrs. Newell Williams of Harpursville [Broome Co., NY]. The wedding will take place in November.  [Afton Enterprise, Aug. 30, 1945]

Harry A. Dyer of Corinth, N.Y. [Saratoga Co., NY], announces the engagement of his daughter, Miss Annette Dyer, to Staff Sergeant Lewis M. Bartlett, of Palmer, N.Y. [Saratoga Co., NY].  Miss Dyer is at present teaching music in the Corinth Public Schools.  Sgt. Bartlett attended Albany Business College and after two years service in England is now stationed at Romulus Field, Michigan.  [Afton Enterprise, Aug. 30, 1945]

Miss Edna Louise Weeks, daughter of Mrs. William Weeks of Harpursville [Broome Co., NY] and the late Mr. Weeks, became the bride of John T. Golden of Gouverneur [St. Lawrence Co., NY] Saturday noon.  The ceremony was performed by the Rev. John P. Phelan in his home, at Hillcrest.   Mr. Golden is the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Frank Golden.  The couple were attended by the bride's brother and sister, Clarence R. Weeks and Miss Florence J. Weeks.  After a wedding trip to New York City Mr. and Mrs. Golden will make their home in Utica [Oneida Cp., NY].  [Afton Enterprise, Aug. 30, 1945]

In the presence of relatives and close friends, Miss Margaret M. Sheldon, of Norwich [Chenango Co., nY], daughter of Mrs. Harry Hubbell, of Sidney, was married to Paul A. Doolittle, World War II veteran, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jesse R. Doolittle, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Sunday afternoon at 2:30 in the First Congregational Church in Norwich.  The ceremony was performed by the Rev. Dr. G. Edgar Wolfe, pastor.  The bride wore a navy blue wool suit with navy accessories and a corsage of white rose buds.  Mrs. Richard A. Tiffany, sister of the bride, was matron of honor, and she was attired in a rose wool suit with brown accessories and a corsage of Talisman roses.  Frank Doolittle, of Bainbridge, brother of the bridegroom, acted as best man.  Following the church service a reception for the bridal party took place at Fred's Inn.  After a week's wedding trip by motor the couple will make their home at 13 Jones avenue, Norwich.  Mrs. Doolittle is employed in the advertising department of the Norwich Pharmacal Company.  The groom received an honorable discharge in June from active Army duty after four years of service.  He served in the Pacific theatre for three and a half years in Australia, New Guinea and the Philippines.  Both are graduates of the Bainbridge High School.  Mrs. Doolittle was honored at pre-nuptial events in Norwich by Mrs. Fay Morse and Miss Marion Hunt.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Sept. 13, 1945]

 

Miscellaneous

Monster Could End All Civilization

War Becomes a Destructive Force Capable of Make Life and home Unsafe

Sidney Enterprise, August 9, 1945

 

President Truman has clearly indicated that the scientists who made the atomic bomb have done two things:

1.  they have created a monster which could wipe out civilization.

2.  Some protection against the monster must be found before its secret is given to the world.

 

The government has protected its Los Alamos atomic bomb project, west and north of there, with such extreme secrecy that it has almost wiped the community off the map for two and one-half years.  So rigidly was the ban against publicity enforced, that society page and sports from Los Alamos avoided mention of the place.  A one-time exclusive school for boys, Los Alamos was taken over by the government in the fall of 1942.  Newspapermen were warned at once that the project was one of the War Department ranked as extremely confidential.  Reporters never were given an opportunity to visit the project.  But the public knew there was something secret hidden in the hills and conjectured over it. 

 

Hiroshima, first enemy city to feel the American atomic bomb, was a major military target.  Whether it is anything important now cannot be determined until the smoke and dust clear.  The War Department describes it as "an army city," major quartermaster depot and leading port of embarkation.  Principal industries produce large guns and tanks, machine tools and aircraft parts.  Industrial and warehouse construction varied from light and highly inflammable to very heavy and fireproof, providing a good check on the atomic bomb's capabilities.  Population was about 318,000 at the last census with the city proper measuring about three miles by four miles.

 

Some means must have been found to control the effects of the atomic bomb, Dr. Roy K. Marshall, director of Feis planetarium and associate director of Franklin Institute, said Monday night.  "Otherwise, we might drop such a bomb on Japan and find her suing for peace--and ourselves unable to stop the havoc which was being wrought on the enemy's territory," he declared.  Dr. Marshall explained that high-speed particles, parts of the core of the atomic structure of the explosive used, plow into other atoms--such as those in furniture or houses, or the human body itself--to produce explosions.  When these atoms are released they literally bombard other atoms in the area."  he said, adding that without some sort of restraining force such destructive action would "proceed indefinitely."

 

Peacetime developments of the atomic source of energy will make internal combustion engines "a thing of the past within, say, ten years," he predicted.  "We can expect great advances in many fields, including transportation, fuel supplies, electric power and--what may even be more important--medicine," Dr. Marshall declared. 

 

4th and 5th Generation Will Visit Miller Homestead

Sidney Enterprise, July 5, 1945

 

Fifteen grandchildren of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick S. Miller are expected to visit the Miller Homestead this summer.  The Miller Homestead which is located at East Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], in the beautiful Unadilla Valley on the banks of the Unadilla river has been in the Miller family for a number of years and the home of some generations of the Miller family.  The youngest who carries the traditional Austin L. Miller the 3rd with his father and mother are expected Wednesday, July 4th; Fred'k S  Miller, Jr. and son William; Mr. and Mrs. Don A. Kilburn and two children; Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert McNamara and with her daughter, Mary Lou Lyon and Mark are all expected for the first 3 weeks in July.  All the above children comprise the 4th and 5th generation of the Miller family that will have visited Mr. and Mrs. Frederick S. Miller, present occupants of the homestead.

 

 

 

 

 

 



Obituaries (August 26)

The funeral services of Mrs. Mary Webster Fisher, seventy-three, whose death occurred Tuesday, September 4 at Newtonville, Mass., will be held at the Nineveh Church Friday afternoon September 7, at three o'clock, with Rev. Clifford E. Webb, minister of the church officiating.  Burial will be at Nineveh [Broome Co., NY].  For many years a resident of Nineveh until ill health lately made it necessary to give up her home there, Mrs. Fisher had taken an active part in the affairs of the community.  She served for a long period of time as Librarian of the Nineveh Public Library and for many years was treasurer and organist of the Nineveh Presbyterian Church where she was a member.  [Afton Enterprise, Sept. 6, 1945]

Mrs. Mary E. Webster Fisher, daughter of the late Sidney S. and Jane S. Webster, died Tuesday, September 4, at twelve o'clock noon, at a nursing home in Boston, Mass., where she had been for the past year and a half.  The funeral was held at the Presbyterian Church in Nineveh on Friday, September 7, at three in the afternoon, with the Rev. Clifford E. Webb, pastor of the church officiating.  The pall bearers, all of whom were sons of old-time friends of the Webster family, were:  Arthur Wasson, Arthur Fowler, Leo Pixley and Floyd Bunce.  Burial was made in Nineveh [Broome Co., NY].  With the exception of her school years when she graduated from the Gilbertsville Academy, all of Mrs. Fisher's life was spent in Nineveh.  She was an active member of the Presbyterian Church there, having been church treasurer for a period of over twenty years, church organist for over thirty years, and for an equally long time a teacher in the Sunday School.  She is survived by three nieces and two nephews:  Mrs. Minnie Corbet and Mrs. Emma Youngs of New York City; Mrs. Helen Stuart of West Newton, Mass; Sidney Webster of Los Angeles Calif. and Charles Webster of Maplewood, N.J.  [Afton Enterprise, Sept. 13, 1945]

 

Funeral services for Fred A. Smith, state road patrolman and a resident of Rockdale [Chenango Co., NY] for more than 40 years, were largely attended Thursday afternoon at Colwell's Chapel at Bainbridge, with the Rev. Clayton W. Hoag, Methodist pastor of Unadilla, officiating.  Serving as bearers were Foster Beach, R.D. Ryan, Samuel Arden and Max Whitney, all of Oxford, Harley Moffatt, of New Berlin, and Niles Palmer, of Rockdale.  Burial was in the Mt. Upton Cemetery.  The death of Mr. Smith occurred Monday, Sept. 3, at the family home.  Although in failing health for several years his condition did not become serious until over the week-end.  He had followed his usual duties as late as last Thursday.  For the past 32 years he had been employed as a state road patrolman.  Born Aug. 17, 1890, at Elmwood, Mich., he was the son of the late Morrell A Smith and Mary M. Sutton Smith.  Since the age of 12 years when the family came to Rockdale, Mr. Smith had resided there.  He was educated in the Mt. Upton school.  A devoted father, Mr. Smith was held in deep affection by neighbors and friends.  His associates in his employment held a high regard for him and he marked his life by loyalty to his friends.  His passing finds a large circle of friends uniting with the family in sorrow over his death.  His marriage to Jessie Hackett, of Norwich, occurred Jan. 10, 1921.  She survives with three sons, Richard, Carl and Harry Smith; his mother, Mrs. Mary Sutton Smith, all of Rockdale; three brothers, Harry and Clarence, of Rockdale, and Ray, of Mt. Upton; also two sisters, Mrs. Clara Carnahan and Mrs. Jessie Howland, both of Norwich.  Several nephews and nieces also survive.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Sept. 13, 1945]

 

On Friday, Aug. 31, 1945, at his late residence on Kirby street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], occurred the death of William Adelbert Davis, for more than 25 years a resident of Bainbridge village.  Mr. Davis was born in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] on Jan. 9, 1860, the son of Abram and Mabel Davis.  He was united in marriage to Aliph C. Lyon on Dec. 5, 1888.  For many years the couple occupied a farm in the Union Valley section of the township, moving to this village somewhat over a quarter of a century ago. They had no children.  They both united with the local Methodist Church by letter from Union Valley in 1919 under the pastorate of the Rev. O.L. Buck.  Mrs. Davis passed away Oct. 30, 1934 leaving the husband in a lonely situation.  His quiet and sudden passing away without protracted illness brought him that release which he often longed for.  His faith in the future life was firm and the hope of a reunion with his deceased loved ones was confidently anticipated.  The funeral services were held at the Colwell parlors on Tuesday afternoon, Sept. 4, at 2 o'clock, the Rev. Harry E. Brooks, of the Methodist church, officiating and preaching on the text found in St. John's Gospel, Chapter 8, verse 29:  "The Father hath not left me alone."  Burial was made in Greenlawn Cemetery [Bainbridge, NY] in the family plot, Mr. Davis being laid beside his wife.  Mrs. Davis was survived by eight nephews and six nieces, Fred Davis, Mrs.  Mable Doolittle, Joseph Herrick, Earl Davis, Mrs. Pearl Luckenbach, all of Bainbridge; Mrs. Bertha Rhodes and Mark Doolittle, both of Binghamton; Frank Davis and Floyd Doolittle, both of Sidney; Howard Davis, of Cohoes; Perry Doolittle, of Cooperstown; Mrs. Ray Weeks, of Afton; and Mrs. Alta Lapp and Mrs. Ina Steinmetz, both of Schenectady.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Sept. 13, 1945]

 

Undeterred by the fatal accident which cost the life of Jack Perry Saturday night at the Afton Fair, when the car he was attempting to "leap frog" over other machines, lost a wheel and nosedived 50 feet, his fellow troupers will stage the same show at the Delaware County Fair this week.  The same stunt will be tried again with others jumping an automobile completely over a bus and landing on four cars parked on the race track.  Other troupers in the outfit are Sgt. Joseph Montford on leave from the army and for 10 years with the show, and Ray Stone.  Stone went on with the stunt after Perry was extricated from the wreckage in Afton and taken to the Binghamton City hospital where he died early Sunday morning.  [Afton Enterprise, Aug. 23, 1945]

 

Miss Alura Pierce, 42, formerly of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], and recently of Escabana, Michigan, died suddenly on August 9th at her home in that place.   Funeral services were held at the Tabor Funeral home Tuesday afternoon with Rev. Alan Douglas of the Baptist Church officiating.  Burial was in Glenwood Cemetery [Afton, NY].  Survivors are her mother, Mrs. Carrie Pierce Cronin, Benjamin E. Pierce, and family, Ivan Pierce and family, Mrs. Fred Young and Mrs. Clyde Swarner.  [Afton Enterprise, Aug. 23, 1945]

 

Funeral service for Jesse Burgess, 60, of Brisben [Chenango Co., NY], a victim of a tractor accident Saturday night, was held at the Root Funeral Home Greene, at 2 p.m. Wednesday with the Rev. Halsey Morgan of the Central Baptist Church officiating.  Burial was in the Sylvan lawn Cemetery in Greene.  Mr. Burgess was killed when he was pinned by a tractor which overturned on an embankment throwing him underneath the vehicle.  At the time of the accident Mr. Burgess was riding the tractor with his wife Bessie.  Mrs. Burgess, also caught under the overturned tractor, suffered minor bruises.  The deceased had been a justice of the peace in Greene for more than 20 years although he resided in nearby Brisben.  In that village he attended the Brisben Central Baptist Church where he was a deacon.  He was a member of the Green Lodge F.&A.M. and a former member of the central school board.  Mrs. Burgess was reported recovering from her injuries.  She also suffered shock in the accident, seeing her husband fatally pinned under the heavy machine.  Mr. Burgess was a brother of Mrs. Hugh Swart of this place [Afton, Chenango Co., NY]  [Afton Enterprise, Aug. 23, 1945]