BCHS Students of Years Ago Meet - 1946

Bainbridge Central  High School Students

of Years Ago Meet

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 18, 1946

 

 

Front row (LtoR):  Alfred Winston, Lee mills, Louis Stevens, Howard R. Fuller, Sidney R. Bennett, Floyd E. Anderson, Irving D. Tillman and Edwin Jacobson

Back row (LtoR):  Charles H. Peckham, Ward Loomis, Joseph Herrick, Leigh Evans, Vernon F. Hovey, Dr. Ralph H. Loomis, Harold l. Payne

 

A group of men, former students of Bainbridge High School, met Sunday evening, July 7, at DeCumber Hotel, Sidney, for dinner.  The occasion was the revival of the Refugees, a club organized in 1905 by some of the boys on vacation from college and those still here at home.  They met annually for several years at a banquet, then the interests of many took them to homes away and no more meetings were held. 

 

The night of the Old Home Day celebration in 1939 found a group of them assembled on the Central Hotel porch talking over old times till the "wee sma' hours,"  and saying goodbye to each other firmly resolved to meet the next summer, but other affairs, worldwide, diverted their attention, for either they, or their sons, or other members of their families were called into war service.  But two weeks ago, when Lieut. Col. Howard W. Fuller, better known to Bainbridge folks as Dick, came to call on old friends, thoughts reached out to fellows not seen in many years, and a wish was expressed that the Refugees might gather again for an old time conclave.  The wish was no sooner expressed than it was put into action by some of the home men, invitations posted, and prompt answers received, with the result that 16 of them were at the dinner.

 

Sid Bennett, acting as master of ceremonies, called on Vern Hovey, Lee Mills, Dill Tillman, Alf Winston, Dick Fuller and Floyd Anderson, who responded with reminiscences, and a gladness to be able to meet the old gang again, some of whom had not seen one another in 40 years.

 

Messages were received from Clay Wilcox, Ward Redfield, Aug Jacobson, of New York City; Prof. Harry VanCott, of Schenectady; Rex Randall, of Adams; and Earl Westcott of Oneonta, regretting their inability to come and with greetings to all the fellows.

 

It was an unanimous vote that they meet next year and thereafter make it an annual affair.

 

Leon Loomis, Louis Hartmann, Harry Humphrey, Frank Williams, Howard Whitman and Jesse Wicks were spoken of with feeling as five who have died.

 

In attendance were:  Dr. H. Lee Mills, of Burlington, Vt.; Vernon Hovey, of Schenectady; Alfred Winston, of Herkimer; Irving D. Tillman, of Norwich; Dr. Ralph Loomis, of Sidney; Edwin Jacobson, of Sidney; Lieut. Col. Howard W. Fuller, of Binghamton; Senator Floyd Anderson of Binghamton; Sidney Bennett, Joseph E. Herrick, Charles Peckham Perry Teachout, Ward Loomis, Harold Payne, Louis Stevens, Leigh Evans, all of Bainbridge.

 

 

 



 



Marriages (January 3)

Juliand - Coan
Afton Enterprise, January 30, 1880

JULIAND - COAN:  Married in Guilford, Conn., January 28th, 1823, by the Rev. David Baldwin, Mr. Richard W. Juliand and Miss Lucretia Coan.

 

When a husband and wife have seen their fifty-seventh wedding day, they may well be said to have reached the golden age of matrimony.  The venerable host and hostess who received a few friends at their hospitable home "on the hill" last Wednesday evening, have arrived at that period, and with the mellow light of life's declining sun shining upon their heads, they stood before the assembled guests implying by their actions that they were ready to repeat the pledge of mutual affection which they exchanged more than half a century ago. Time has not chilled their hearts, though it has scattered its snows of many winters in their hair, and with its rough hand traced here and there, its furrows on their brows.  It was truly refreshing to look upon their bright, genial faces when we consider how many years have passed from Time into Eternity since they first plighted their troth at the altar.  Within the period of time which has elapsed since our dear friends were made one, nations have been divided, empires overthrown, kingdoms set up, and the very face of nature in many parts of the world has changed.  But there has been no change in the bridal couple who entertained us so handsomely the evening of their recent anniversary, save that which years produce on the outer shell of humanity.  In soul and spirit the bride and bridegroom of that evening were the bride and bridegroom of fifty-seven years ago.  This is an age of improvements; but there are some things which cannot be improved.  One of them is old fashioned affection  It is most beautifully illustrated in the forms of the two esteemed friends of whom we are speaking.  Though one, from infirmity and age, is deprived of a great deal of his own self-dependence, yet the other watches over him most tenderly and affectionately, and administers to his every want.  We see in them the picture of love triumphant over time, which Burns doubtless had in his mind's eye when he wrote that most touching of all ballads; "John Anderson, My Jo."  For more than fifty years they have traveled together the pathway of life, through storm and sunshine trusting and clinging to each other, and though they are now old in years, yet they are young in heart, and are happy in the love of one another.  In the name of the guests present at their fifty-seventh anniversary, we wish them a safe and pleasant journey to the end of their earthly pilgrimage.  We trust that the remainder of the sea of life over which they may, by God's providence, be permitted to sail, will be tranquil and placid as an inland lake surrounded by mountains, and that, as they draw nearer and nearer to the haven where they would be, and to which we are all bound, may "the peace of God which passeth all understanding" be theirs.  E.L.J.

 
Oliver - Mahon

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 11, 1946

Miss Anna G. Mahon, daughter of William A. and the late Mrs. Mahon, of Lake Delaware [Delaware Co., NY], and James M. Oliver, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Oliver, Delhi [Delaware Co., NY], were married at the home of the bride's father, Wednesday evening, June 26.

Stevens - Hurlburt

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 11, 1946

Miss Melba Hurlburt, daughter of Mr and Mrs. Harry Hurlburt, of South Nineveh [Broome Co., NY], became the bride of Robert Stevens, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Stevens, of Baldwinsville [Onondaga Co., NY], on Friday, June 28, 1946.  The wedding ceremony was performed in the First Baptist Church at Baldwinsville.

Howe - Barnes

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 11, 1946

The Rev. Robert D. Mahaffy, pastor of Downsville Presbyterian Church, officiated at a ceremony at 7 Thursday evening, June 27, uniting Miss Marjorie E. Barnes, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hobert L. Barnes, of Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], and Raymond A. Howe, son of Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Howe, R.D.1, Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY].  The wedding took place in the church manse.  Mr. and Mrs. Howe will make their home in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

Beers - Haynes

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 11, 1946

Miss Dorothy Anne Haynes, a former Army  nurse, daughter of Mrs. Henry G. Haynes, Walton [Delaware Co., NY], and Lt. Rex. W. Beers, Jr., U.S.N.R., son of Mr. and Mrs. Rex W. Beers, Beerston [Delaware Co., NY], were united in marriage Sunday afternoon, June 30.  The Rev. J.M. Findley Brown performed the double ring ceremony at Walton United Presbyterian Church.  A reception for 80 followed at the home of the bride.  Among the out of town guests were Mr. and Mrs. Harland Alberta and family, of Deposit.

McDonald - Fuller

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 11, 1946

In a setting of mountain laurel and peonies at Downsville Methodist Church, Sunday afternoon, June 30, Miss Mary Alice Fuller, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gordon E. Fuller, of Downsville [Delaware Co., NY], became the bride of William L. McDonald, son of Mr. and Mrs. Howard McDonald, East Brook, Walton [Delaware Co., NY].  The Rev. Robert D. Mahaffy, pastor of Downsville Presbyterian Church, performed the ceremony.  One hundred guests attended a reception at the home of the bride's parents immediately following the ceremony.  Mr and Mrs. McDonald will make their home in Sidney.  Guests were present at the ceremony from Oneonta, Delhi, Deposit, Walton.

Marriage Notices

SEARLES - MERRIMAN:  At Afton on the 30th of December 1879, by the Rev. N .J. Hawley, Burton M. Searles of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Viola Merriman, of North Colesville, N.Y. [Broome Co., NY]  [Afton Enterprise, Jan. 16, 1880]

RUDD - WINSOR:  At the residence of the bride's father, Olney Winsor, by Rev. D.N. Grummon, on Wednesday, Dec. 31, Charles E. Rudd, of Waterville, N.Y. [Oneida Co., NY], to Miss Abbie A. Winsor, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].  [Afton Enterprise, January 20, 1880]

BISHOP - NEWTON:  At the residence of the bride, March 10th, by Rev. L.W. Jackson of Hancock, assisted by Rev. G.W. Remington of Trout Creek, Mr. Walter Bishop of Sidney Centre [Delaware Co., NY] to Miss Ida Newton of Masonville [Delaware Co., NY].  [Afton Enterprise, March 19, 1880]

SHAVER - EVERETT:  At the house of Alvin Converse, May 17, 1880 by Rev. D.N. Grummon, C. Franklin Shaver and Harriet M. Everett, both of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]  [Afton Enterprise, May 21, 1880]

 

Obituaries (January 3)

Harriet A. Hecox

Smyrna Press, May 5, 1904

 

Another of the older residents of this village was summoned from earthly cares on Tuesday afternoon, when Mrs. Harriet Hecox passed quietly away at the home of her son, Austin A. Hecox, on East Main street.  She suffered a paralytic shock on Tuesday night, April 19, and did not regain consciousness again, but gradually failed until the end came at 2:00 o'clock p.m. Tuesday, April 24, 1904.  Mrs. Hecox, whose maiden name was Harriet A. Fuller, was born at New Lisbon, Otsego county, N.Y., October 31, 1830, and was therefore in the seventy fourth year of her age.  On November 10, 1850, he was married to Chester B. Hecox, and they went to reside at Bath, Steuben county, where they remained several years.  From Bath they returned in Otsego county and later they came to Earlville where they remained one year before coming to this town 33 years ago where they spent the balance of their lives.  Mr. Hecox died July 15, 1886, while residing on the farm now owned by C.S. Billings and occupied by Dwight Calkins.  During the past twelve years, Mrs. Hecox had made her home with her son at whose residence she died.  Mrs. Hecox was a noble, Christian woman and a faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal church of this village.  She is survived by two sons, Austin A., of this village and Eugene of Brockport, Ida E., her only daughter, having died March 18, 1885.  Funeral services were held from the house at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, Rev. G.W. Crosby pastor of the M.E. church, officiating.  Burial was made by the side of her husband in the cemetery at Earlville [Madison Co., NY]. 

 

Rev. S.M. Keeler

Smyrna Press, June 13, 1912

 

Rev. S.M. Keeler died at Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] Thursday, June 6, 1912, at the age of 76 years.  Mr. Keeler had spent fifty-two years in the ministry, and for four years was pastor of the Congregational church of this village.  During that time the church prospered and the church building was thoroughly remodeled.  He and his family were very much loved by the people of Smyrna.  Not many who attended church at that time are left, but those who do remember him and his family will extend their sympathy to the bereaved family. 

 

Ellen M. Weaver

Smyrna Press, June 13, 1912

 

Died, at the Rome Hospital May 16, 1912, of pneumonia following an operation, Ellen M. Weaver, second daughter of Charles and Rebecca Weaver, deceased, in the forty-third year of her age.  Ellen M. Weaver was born in Cayuga county, N.Y., living there until about eleven years of age when she with her parents and sister moved to this town. She learned and skillfully followed the dressmaker's trade for a number of years. The last few years she had been living with her married sister, Mrs. Lewis N. Benedict, near Rome. She was a member of the Friends church.  Becoming a Christian at an early age she was deeply interested in all Christian work and ever ready with a helping hand and kind word in sickness and need.  No exertion or sacrifice too great, no call unheeded if in her power to grant.  Unselfishness was her crowning virtue. In the last hours she was calm and happy in her Savior's love.  Beloved by all who knew her she will be sadly missed.  Funeral services were held at the home of her sister and the remains were brought to Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY] and buried in the Friends cemetery.  Besides her sister, Miss Weaver leaves a foster brother, Ray C. Weaver of Cortland, N.Y.

"Pilgrimage ended,

Lights and shades blended,

Then I shall see

How thou didst lead me,

How thou didst speed me

Nearer dear Saviour still nearer to thee." 

 

Erastus C. Billings

Smyrna Press, August 3, 1911

 

Entered into the life to come at his home, 314 Kellogg St., Syracuse, N.Y. [Onondaga Co., NY], Erastus C. Billings, age 72 years.  The youngest son of John F. and Lucretia C. Billings, he was born in Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], April 10, 1839.  He was married June 16, 1875 to Miss Sarah Dixon, a sister of the Dixon brothers in Smyrna.  Two sons were born to them, John Dixon in 1878 and Charles Walter in 1880, the latter and his mother being the only surviving members of the family.  Both sons received preparatory and college training at Colgate university, and later obtained further degrees, John from Cornell and Walter from Syracuse.  While on the way to his daily chemical duties at the Halcomb Steel Plant of Syracuse, John met an untimely death by railway accident, Sept. 22, 1909;  Walter is with the Brown Lipe Chapin Co., extensive manufacturers of automobile gears in Syracuse.  Commencing as drug clerk in New York city, Mr. Billings afterwards purchased a drug business at Eaton, N.Y., where he remained four years; then became for several years a successful representative in New England of Reed & Carnick of New York.  On marriage, he again, at Boonton, N.J., purchased a drug store, remaining there three years; then removed his business to Smyrna, N.Y., where he continued in it seventeen years, winning the esteem of the entire community by his skill, painstaking care of details, real love for the work and square dealing.  In 1896, he again engaged as pharmaceutical salesman, traveling in New England for the Norwich Pharmacal Co. six years, and in Central New York for The National Drug Co. of Philadelphia, Pa., the remaining years of his life.  As a traveling representative among physicians, his intimate knowledge both as to the manufacture and application of drugs, together with his sterling manhood, secured for him respect and often close friendship among his customers.  He was a member of the Smyrna Congregational church and as treasurer was for years active in the affairs of the church.  He was a member of Smyrna Lodge No 116, I.O.O.F.  Rev C.C. Johnson, who was for ten years a pastor in Smyrna, and in 1875, at the wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Billings performed the marriage ceremony, officiated at the funeral services at Syracuse, Thursday evening, the 27th inst., assisted by Dr. Ethan A. Curtis of Syracuse, and at Smyrna on Friday, the 28th, with interment by the Lodge I.O.O.F., at West Hill cemetery, Sherburne, N.Y. [Chenango Co.].  A man of spotless integrity, of warm sympathies and domestic tastes, he gave his family a wealth of affection and devotion, and drew to himself a large circle of friends, who sincerely mourn his sudden departure.

 

Death Notices

 

PELLET:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] on Wednesday last, Mrs. Frances, wife of David Pellet, aged 38 years [Chenango Telegraph, May 25, 1835]

 

BLIVIN:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st ult., Mrs. Irena, wife of John Blivin, aged 32 years. [Chenango Telegraph, June 1, 1836]

NICHOLSON:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 31st ult., Mr. Allen Nicholson, aged about 40 years.  [Chenango Telegraph, June 17, 1835]

EGAN:  In Rochester [Monroe Co., NY], of consumption, November 3, 1836, Mrs. Lydia A., wife of John Egan and sister of J.S. Bell of New Berlin.  [Norwich Journal, December 8, 1836]

WILSON:  Wilkin's Settlement [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mr. Orville Wilson's infant daughter was buried Sunday the 21st.  [Bainbridge Republican, May 9, 1878]

ADAMS:  Horace Adams of Triangle [Broome Co., NY], aged 82 years, died on Monday, May 27th.  He served during the War of 1812, and was a pensioner.  His wife, with whom  he had lived 65 years died last August, aged 86.[Bainbridge Republican, June 6, 1878]

PEARSALL:  David Pearsall, a respected resident of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], and at one time Supervisor of the town, died at his residence on Tuesday morning of this week, aged 56 years.  His funeral took place on Wednesday, and was attended by a large concourse of relatives and friends.  [Bainbridge Republican, June 6, 1878]



Obituaries (January 2)

William H. Havens
Chenango Republican, Oxford, NY, May 6, 1829

At the residence of his father in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] on Wednesday last of a consumption, William H. Havens, aged 25 years.  Among the numerous victims selected by the grand destroyer, few there are whose last sad exit cause more universal gloom.  Mild and generous in his disposition; gentle and conciliating in his manners; and correct and manly in his deportment, he gained the friendship of all who knew him.  With a mind naturally fertile and elevated, strengthened and refined by education, he disregarded all minor considerations and humbly sought with a becoming devotion to be useful to his fellow men.  Through a long and painful illness he manifested the fortitude and resignation of a Christian, and when the long expected summons come he calmly resigned himself to the cold embrace of the ruthless messenger.  If the bitter anguish of fond and doting parents, the tears of tender brothers and affectionate sisters, or the entreaties of friends could have turned aside the envenomed shafts of death, he had not died--but alas!  On Friday the last mournful rites were paid to his mortal remains.  A most strikingly solemn and impressive discourse was delivered on the occasion by the Rev. Mr. Bush, of Oxford, to the most numerous congregation ever recollected to have assembled in this town on a similar occasion.  Farewell dear youth--beloved companion--the fond recollection of thy virtues shall long remain entwined around the hearts of thy acquaintance, and the remembrance of thy worth be affectionately cherished in the bosoms of thy friends, when the monuments of art shall have long been consumed by the ravages of time.--Guilford, May 2, 1829.

 

Oleavia Ingersoll

Chenango Union, August 22, 1878

 

In the death of Mrs. Oleavia Ingersoll, wife of Eathan Ingersoll, which occurred on the 12th ult., in the sixty-seventh year of her age, our community has lost one of its most estimable citizens.  For several years the infirmities of increasing age have been gathering upon her, and about four years since she had the misfortune to fall and fracture her hip with added greatly to her burden.  Under all these afflictions, however, she bore up with cheerful resignation, and continued to attend to her domestic cares until some eight weeks since when she was stricken with partial paralysis and which was followed about nine days since with an apoplectic shock with its fatal attendant result as above stated. For many years Mrs. Ingersoll, with her husband, has been a resident of our neighborhood--either upon their farm near there in our village--meantime earning and retaining the universal respect of all who knew her for her combined qualities of intelligence and kindness of heart.  She was a Christian in the true sense of the word, and her large circle of relatives and friends will sincerely mourn her death.  It has been a great consolation to her during the past few months that her only daughter, Mrs. S.W. Nott, who came from his distant home in Colorado, was with her to receive her counsel, and equally so now to the daughter to have been enabled to administer the last wants to a devoted mother.  A husband and an only son, after doing all in their power to sooth the pillow of the dying wife and mother, are left to mourn her great loss. 

 

Harriet A. Humphrey Jewell

Bainbridge Republican, September 21, 1888

 

JEWELL:  Died in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], September 13th, '88, Harriet A., wife of E.L. Jewell, in the 71st year of her age.

 

Harriet A. Humphrey was born at Norfolk, Connecticut, in May 1818, and was brought to Guilford, in this county [Chenango Co.].  when six months old.  This county has been her home ever since.  In 1837 she was married to Mr. E.L. Jewell, and for fifty years has been a devoted wife.  In 1844 she and her husband together united with the Presbyterian church at Guilford, and she has always taken an active interest in the church, and in the cause of Christ.  Some ten years since they moved to this village [Bainbridge, NY], united with the Presbyterian church here, and made hosts of friends.  For many years her health has not been good, and for many months past, she has been very feeble, but tenderly cared for by her companion.  Her tribulation was for the profit of her soul.  On the thirteenth inst. she quietly fell asleep in Jesus, and on the fifteenth a multitude of relatives and friends met at her late home to pay their last tribute of respect.  Her remains were carefully laid away in a beautiful spot in Green Lawn Cemetery [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].

 

Alvin Hollenbeck

Bainbridge Republican, October 12, 1888

 

Last Sunday morning Alvin Hollenbeck, who lives in the town of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], only a few rods from the line between that and this town [Bainbridge], arose well as usual and went about his morning's work, dressed himself and went down into the meadow adjoining the horse barn and tried to drive the horses into the barn for the purpose of attending the funeral of Sherwood Shapley, at the Free Will Baptist church in the town of Oxford.  The horses were not inclined to go into the barn and Mr. Hollenbeck called to his son Berton and said to him:  "You drive them in for I am all played out."  Mr. Hollenbeck passed along into the barn and sat down while his son drove the horses into the barn, put them into their stalls and was ascending the stairs to the floor above to get some hay for them, when he heard his father fall to the floor.  Descending quickly and calling to his mother, they tried to render some assistance to the stricken man, but they soon discovered that he had (to them so suddenly) passed from life to death. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. Cook of this village, from his late residence, on Tuesday at 10 o'clock a.m., and the remains were referred at the West Bainbridge cemetery. The deceased was born in Broome county, but has been a resident of this county nearly all his life.  He has been one of the leading members of the Methodist church at Union Valley, this town, for nearly thirty years.  His life's acts have been such as to gain the respect and confidence of all who knew him, and to assemble a large concourse of people to pay their last respects on the day of his burial.  He leaves a wife, one daughter, and two sons to mourn his loss.

Dr. Solomon Fenton McFarland

Dr. Solomon Fenton McFarland, one of the leading physicians of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], died at his home, no. 76 Front Street, Thursday morning, April 26, 1900.  Dr. McFarland was the sixth child of Aaron Barber and Polly Fenton McFarland, and was born on July 12, 1828, at Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].  He studied medicine with Dr. George Douglas of Oxford, and was licensed to practice medicine and surgery on April 21, 1854, by the Chenango County Medical society.  He began the practice of medicine at Troupsburg Center, Steuben county.  He was graduated from the medical department of the University of Michigan with the class of 1857, and thereafter began professional work in Oxford.  On August 22, 1862, Dr. McFarland was commissioned assistant surgeon by Governor E.D. Morgan, and as he had requested in passing his examination, was assigned by Surgeon General VenDepoel to the 83rd New York Volunteers, a regiment already in the field.  He was mustered into the United States service by Major lee at Norwich and went at once to the front.  On orders from the surgeon general, U.S.A., he reported to the surgeon in chief of General Banks' corps.  This was directly after the second battle of Bull Run.  He was in active service until severe illness compelled him to return home on October 15, 1862.  He was appointed by the president, surgeon of the board of enrollment of the 19th New York district on April 19, 1863.  The board had headquarters for a time at Unadilla, after which it remained at Norwich until the close of the war. Dr McFarland was determined upon doing his full duty to his country, and it was a great disappointment to him that on July 20, 1864, continued ill  health again compelled him to resign in favor of Dr. George Douglas of Oxford. Returning to Oxford, he resumed private practice.  The value of his services during the war was inestimable.  Dr. McFarland was twice married.  His first wife, whom he married on May 15, 1851, was Miss Hannah Bradford Folger, daughter of Peleg V. Folger, a descendant of the Folgers of the island of Nantucket.  She died on June 24, 1883, the same year with their oldest daughter.  With his son and daughter, Dr. McFarland moved to Binghamton on June 30, 1884, and has since confined his attention to diseases of the eye and ear and attendant troubles.  With him was formerly associated Dr. Brooks, and his associate at the time of his death was Dr. J. Killen, who continues the practice.  In April, 1885, Dr. McFarland married Miss Ada L. Chamberlin of Afton.  She survives, together with a daughter, Agnes P. McFarland, and a son, F.H. McFarland, both of this city; and one brother, C.A. McFarland of Oxford. Dr. McFarland had lived a useful and busy life, and his death will be keenly felt--Binghamton Republican.  [died 26 April 1900]

Albert C. Hovey

Oxford Times, February 13, 1901

Albert C. Hovey, a prominent farmer and citizen of this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., nY], died at 7:30 o'clock Friday night, aged 71 years, 9 months and 21 days, having been in failing health for a long time.  Mr. Hovey was born in the town of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].  At the age of about twenty years he went to West Millbury, Mass., where he resided for several years and was untied in marriage to Mary L. Small, of that place.  Later he removed to Oxford and took possession of the farm on the Guilford road, where he had resided for forty years up to January 2d last.  His first wife died a number of years ago and a few years later he married Mrs. Betsy S. Woodruff, of Guilford, who survives him.  Four children also survive him, Harriet, wife of Gerritt Wheeler, and H. Fred Hovey, of this village, William A. Hovey, of Guilford, and Mary, wife of E.V. Salisbury, who occupy the home farm where the father died. George, another son, died a few years since.  In politics Mr. Hovey was a Republican, and in his early days an enthusiastic worker for the party.  He had held the office of town assessor one or two terms. He was, until his health failed him, an active energetic, hard worker in everything he undertook, and one of Oxford's most successful farmers.  The high state of cultivation to which he brought his farm, and the building improvements he made testify to his work and enterprise.  Funeral services were held form his late residence on Monday forenoon, Rev. J.H. Littell, of the Methodist church officiating.

 

Marriages (January 2)

Elopement -June 1900

 

Fred Graves of Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], was up before Justice W.H. Pierce of that town for examination Monday, accused of abducting his step granddaughter, May Vandebro, last Thursday night.  He was held for the grand jury, and in default of $400 bail was taken Monday night to the county jail at Delhi.  Graves is 25 years old and he came to Sidney last October and boarded with Mrs. Eliza Dean, a widow fifty-five years of age.  In April Graves and Mrs. Dean were married by the Rev. F.C. Barrett, pastor of the First Baptist church of Sidney.  Mrs. Dean's granddaughter May Vandebro lived with them and Dean's attentions to the young lady were so marked that his wife grew jealous. A crisis came Thursday night when Mrs. Dean ordered the Vandebro girl to leave the house.  The girl went at 10 o'clock and Dean with her.  The mother, Mrs. Ida Vandebro, the daughter of Mrs. Graves, swore out a warrant charging Graves with abduction.  It was placed in the hands of Officer Barney Dickinson, who arrested the runaway couple near Oxford.  They were brought to Sidney the next night and Graves was locked up to await his hearing. Graves and the girl swore that they wandered around the country most of the night that they were gone, sleeping part of the time under a large tree.  Farmers near East Guilford claim that they spent the night in a barn near that place.

Fred Graves of Sidney was sent to Auburn for three years and three months for the abduction of his step-granddaughter, Delila May Vandehall, by marriage.  [DeRuyter Gleaner, June 27, 1901]

Size - Schermerhorn

Ruth Schermerhorn, who has lived in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] for several years united her fortunes with Mr. William Size of Ingersoll, Ontario, Canada, and was married at the M.E. Parsonage, Sidney, Sunday evening, April 4th, by Rev. A.D. Decker.  Mr. Size was a musician in the medical troupe that played here a week ago.  [about 1900]

Pixley - Urbanas

Bainbridge News & Republican, June 27, 1946

Miss Julia Frances Urbanas, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Victor Urbanas, 103-28 117th street, Richmond Hill, L.I., was married to Edward G. Pixley, son of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Pixley, of Evans street, Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Saturday afternoon, at 3:30 o'clock in the Church of St. Benedict-Joseph Ladre, Richmond Hill.  The ceremony was performed by the pastor of the church.  Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a street-length dress of white crepe with white accessories and a corsage of white roses.  Miss Patricia Lennox, maid of honor, was attired in a pink dress with pink accessories and a white corsage.  Donald McHugh, of Afton, acted as best man.  Following the ceremony, a reception was held at the home of the bride's parents for more than 100 guests.  The bride is a graduate of King's County Hospital and served on the staff of Rhoads Veterans' Hospital. The bridegroom is a graduate of Afton High School and served in the Army for more than five years.  After a short wedding trip, the couple will reside temporarily at the home of the bridegroom's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Pixley, in Bainbridge. 

Nicholson - Blanchard

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 18, 1946

The wedding of Miss Lillian E. Blanchard, 30 Valleyview street, and Ralph H. Nicholson, Jr., of Los Angeles, Calif., was solemnized in First Methodist church, Sunday at 4 p.m.  Dr. Harold C. Buckingham read the double ring rites, before an altar set with blue delphiniums, red roses, and hydrangeas, and flanked by lighted candelabras.  Parents of the bride are Mr. and Mrs. William J. Blanchard, and the bridegroom is the son of Ralph H. Nicholson, Sr., of Los Angeles. A recital of wedding selections was played by Mrs. Jerry B. Wilson, organist.  Escorted and given in marriage by her father, the bride appeared in white satin, styled with fitted basque waist and midriff, sweetheart neckline, bracelet length sleeves, and full skirt ending in a short train.  A tiara of pearls held her fingertip veil of illusion, and she carried an arm bouquet of white carnations, roses and baby's breath.  Miss Elna Parish, Oneida street, was her maid of honor.  Miss Parish selected baby blue for her gown of taffeta, which was designed with fitted bodice, sweetheart neckline, bracelet length sleeves and overskirt of net.  She wore a Juliet cap of pale blue feathers with tiny half halo of net, and carried pink carnations.  Herbert Blanchard, 30 Valleyview street, brother of the bride, was the best man.  Vincent Benjamin, Bainbridge, and James Catella, 77 Hudson street, seated the guests.  Delphiniums and roses were also used in decorating the bride's home, where a reception for 35 was held, following the ceremony.  For receiving her guests Mrs. Blanchard chose a beige dress with chartreuse accents and brown accessories  Her corsage was of red roses.  After a wedding trip through the Adirondacks.  Mr. and Mrs. Nicholson will live in Bainbridge[Chenango Co., NY] where the bride is director of vocal music in the Central School, and her husband is employed at the Casein Research Laboratory.  Mrs. Nicholson was graduated form Crane School of Music, Potsdam State Teachers College in 1945.  The bridegroom attended Los Angeles City College and participated in the Army Specialized Training program at Clarkson College of Technology. 

Dart - Herdecker

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 11, 1946

Miss Rose Herdeker, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert G. Herdeker, of Rockdale [Chenango Co., nY], and Leon A. Dart, son of Mr. and Mrs. Austin Dart, of Otego [Otsego Co., NY], were married Sunday, June 30, in the Rockdale Community Church by the Rev. Clayton W. Hoag, of Unadilla.  The church was beautifully decorated with peonies, roses and snapdragons.  A reception for 50 guests was held at the home of the bride's parents where wedding cake and punch were served. The bride is a graduate of Mt. Upton Central School and has been employed at the Scintilla as a secretary. The groom served in the Marine Corps and took part in several campaigns.  He is employed at Hotaling's service station in Sidney at present.  They will reside in Rockdale.

Maxson - Moore

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 11, 1946

Miss Elizabeth Moore, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph C. Moore, of Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], became the bride of Sgt. Leland C. Maxson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Maxson, West Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY], in a candlelight double ring ceremony at the Berean Baptist Church at New Berlin on Saturday, June 29, at 3 p.m.  The Rev. Howard C. Meyers officiated.   Mrs. Maxson is a Sidney High School graduate and recently completed her first year at Baptist Seminary in Johnson City.  Sergeant Maxson is a graduate of New Berlin High School and attended the Baptist Seminary in Johnson City, lacking but a few weeks of graduating when he enlisted.  He served in the Philippines for a year and is now assistant chaplain at Fort Dix.  He expects to receive his discharge in November and plans then to continue his studies in the ministry.  The couple will reside at Fort Dix until his discharge.  

Dennison Poetry continued

Poetry by George Dennison

Condemned to Die for Murder in 1833

 

Written After His Trial

 

Hark reader, hark while I relate

The story of my dreadful fate,

Alas I am condemned to die,

By hanging on the gallows, high.

 

The time is set the law doth say,

I think 'tis March, the nineteenth day,

When I must leave this world of wo,

And to an unknown region go.

 

And this is for a horrid crime

That I must quit the scenes of time,

I must be taken hence away,

And lay my body in the clay.

 

Shun my example, one and all,

Who live upon this earthy ball,

You will walk safely all  your days,

If you beware of sinful ways.

 

Must I be taken in my prime,

And thus be hurried out of time?

When thus I think, I greatly grieve,

To think this world I soon must leave.

 

Beware of drinking to excess,

And then the Lord your soul will bless,

Be very prudent in your way,

And you may yet see happy days.

 

Beware of malice, envy, strife

You yet may see a longer life

You yet may live and see good days

if you beware of sinful ways

 

How dark and dismal is the day,

For here in prison I must lay,

Debarred from all that's dear and sweet,

My friends are left to mourn and weep.

 

I have some friends that still are dear,

it grieves me much to leave them here;

I have two babes, I have a wife,

That will lament my loss through life.

 

O may God hear the widow's prayer,

And rid her of a world of care,

And may she cleave unto the Lord,

Ever mindful of his word.

 

May angels round her bed employ

Their deep and holy song of joy;

And may she on her God depend,

Until old age her life shall end.

 

Rest has forsook my weary frame,

And I am sick of my own name,

Because my coming to this place

Brings on my friends a great disgrace.

 

My case is hard you all must know;

Down to the grave I soon must go;

Although to me it seems quite hard,

I hope that I may be prepared.

 

Now I will tell you as a friend,

What brought me to this dreadful end;

Ardent spirits ruined me,

Oft I used them much too free

 

Now take warning everyone,

Let that poison drink alone;

I now feel friendly to you all--

Spirits have produced my fall.

 

While on these things I meditate,

I know my sorrow is too late;

Though death is now my wretched doom

Yet Christ I hope will take me home.

 

As for my wife and children dear,

A thought of them draws forth a tear.

O, may they never quite despair,

But for thy kingdom them prepare.

 

And in the midst of trouble deep

May angels guard them while they sleep

And when from earth their souls arise,

Then may they met me in the skies.

 

On this no longer can I dwell.

I therefore bid you all farewell;

You must with all men live in peace,

Till time and sense with you shall cease.

 

My mournful story now is done;

Farewell to all below the sun;

Perhaps my face no more you'll see,

Until we reach eternity.

 

[Note:  George Dennison was hung for the murder of his friend, Reuben Gregory, on 19 March 1833 in Norwich, Chenango County, NY.  His was the first execution to take place in Chenango County.  The case was the sensation of its time, and hundreds came to Norwich to witness the public execution.]

 

 

 



Old Murder Case from 1832 Recalled

Murder Case from 1832 Recalled

 

Among the papers of Mrs. Nancy Newton, an aged lady, who died recently in West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY[, were found the following verses written by George Dennison a short time before he was hung in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] for the murder of Reuben Gregory at his father's tavern in the town of Columbus [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 30, 1832.  Henry A. Clark, this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], was present at the inquest which took place the next day, not as a lawyer but spectator.  This was 65 years ago, when Mr. Clark was on his way to Hamilton College travelling by stage.  The tavern was on the road from New Berlin to Columbus, one of the wayside inns so common in those days for the accommodation of the farmers and drovers.  Dennison and his victim, Reuben Gregory, were both young men living in the same town and intimate friends.  Young Gregory's father was a respectable man and kept a good house.  He had refused the day of the murder to give Dennison liquor as he had already been drinking to excess, which so enraged the young man that he left the place threatening vengeance.  The elder Gregory generally wore a slouch hat and smoked considerably.

 

It happened on the day in question that the younger Gregory had teethache and towards evening went into the woodshed to try the tobacco cure, wearing his father's old hat.  In the meantime Dennison had been home for his gun and coming back to the tavern was watching for the father.  It was growing dark and in passing the woodshed door, Dennison, supposing he saw the elder Gregory smoking in his slouch hat, fired, killing the son instantly.  Dennison was arrested and placed in jail at Norwich and was brought to trial, Jan. 21, 1833.  The trial was held in the old Presbyterian church, Norwich, which stood upon the site now occupied by the Congregational church.  He was found guilty of murder and sentenced to be hung March 19, 1833.

 

Crowds of people flocked to Norwich to witness the execution.  At 11:30 a.m. on the day of the execution, Dennison, robed in white, was placed in a sleigh, containing his coffin and taken to the gallows.  He was very cool and collected, and arriving at the scaffold made an address. Several clergymen were present and made addresses, during one of which the condemned man asked the Sheriff for his tobacco box, took a chew, put it into his mouth, smilingly thanking the officer.  After the addresses were finished the rope was adjusted about the prisoner's neck and he was placed upon the drop, while standing there a prayer was made by one of the ministers three-quarters of an hour long--then Dennison was launched into eternity.  He was 27 years old and left a wife and two children.

 

The verses were probably published by one of the Norwich papers, though the source is not given.

 

                                                        Behold the murderer's shameful end,

                                                           His wretched, ignominious death

                                                        No one his name shall now defend,

                                                           Though pity heaves in every breath.

 

Here was given a cut of the Gallows and a Coffin

 

Written Previous to His Trial

 

                                                           Behold in prison you may see

                                                           A man deprived of liberty.

                                                           From Columbus once he came,

                                                           Dennison is his wretched name.

 

                                                           Behold thus lonely he doth mourn,

                                                           From his friends he now is torn.

                                                           His gloomy prison rings with pain,

                                                           He mourns and weeps and sighs in vain.

 

                                                          I hope you will a warning take,

                                                         And God's commandments do not break,

                                                         For you may assured be,

                                                         It will ruin you as it has me.

 

                                                         For now my liberty is lost,

                                                        And thus I've sold it at my cost,

                                                        Sorrow and grief must end my days,

                                                        For cleaving unto sinful way.

 

                                                        With a trembling hand and aching heart,

                                                        My friends and I are forced to part,

                                                        Tis grief to me, you may depend,

                                                        The slur I've brought upon my friends.

 

                                                        My aged father still doth live,

                                                        And my conduct doth him grieve,

                                                        My mother now in death doth sleep,

                                                        While he and I are left to weep.

 



                                                        And of his children is bereft

                                                        Out of eleven but seven are left,

                                                        Out of the seven, six are sons,

                                                        Behold I am the youngest one.

 

                                                        Of his daughters there were three,

                                                        Now two are in eternity;

                                                        There is but one now left behind,

                                                        Sorrow and anguish fill her mind.

 

                                                        Thus I have myself undone;

                                                        My time is spent, my race is run;

                                                        It is my fate for Oh! I must

                                                        Resign my body to the dust.

 

                                                       May God forgive unhappy man,

                                                       And kindly lengthen out my span,

                                                       And let me still on earth remain,

                                                       And liberty once more obtain.

 

                                                       But if I must give up my breath

                                                      Into the icy hands of death,

                                                      May I but meet my God in peace,

                                                      And dwell with him when time shall cease.

                                                      Thou steady orb! Supremely bright!

                                                      Just rising from the sea.

                                                      To cheer all nature with thy light,

                                                      What are thy beams to me!

                                                      In vain thy glories bid me rise
                                                     To hail the new-born day;
                                                     Alas! my morning sacrifice
                                                     Is still to weep and pray.

                                                     Oh! what are Nature's charms combined
                                                     To one whose weary breast
                                                     Can neither peace nor comfort find,
                                                     No friend on whom to rest.

                                                     Oh! never, never while I live,
                                                     Can my heart's anguish cease;
                                                     Come! friendly death, thy mandate give
                                                     And set my soul at peace!

[To be continued]

 

 

 

 



Marriages (January 1)

Hoke-Moore

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 11, 1946

On Saturday, June 30, occurred the marriage of Miss Beverly J. Moore, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John T. Moore, of Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], to Gordon Hoke, son of Mr. and Mrs. A. Leigh Hoke, of Rockdale.  The Rev. J/ D. McDanel, of Mt. Upton, officiated  Witnessing the ceremony were Miss Hilda Weis and Ronald S. Webster, Jr.  Mr. Hoke is a recently discharged veteran.

 

Schloss - Welton

Bainbridge news & Republican, July 11, 1946

 

In the most unusual wedding of the season, Saturday, June 29, at noon, the twin daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Horace V. Schloss, Walton [Delaware Co., NY], and the sons of Mr. and Mrs. A.M. Welton, of Walton, were untied in marriage.  The Rev. J.M. Findley Brown, D.D., of Walton United Presbyterian Church, performed the double ceremony.  Given in marriage by their father were Miss Jean Harriett Schloss, who became the bride of Ralph Winfield Welton, and Miss June Helen Schloss, who was married to Allen Eugene Welton.  The home of the brides' parents, in which the ceremony took place, was decorated with mountain laurel, ferns and delphinium.  Only the immediate families were present, Mr. Welton having returned for the day from Camp Smith, Peekskill, where he is in bivouac with Company F, 1st Regiment, New York Guard.  Observance of the 25th wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Schloss gave the day a triple significance.  The brides were similarly attired in street-length dresses of embroidered pastel green jersey.  They wore corsages of white carnations and sweet peas.  A wedding dinner followed at the Bryden farm, Hawley Station with Mrs. Ivan Bryden, hostess.  Mrs. Ralph Welton was graduated from Walton High, class of '44 and Mr. Welton is an alumnus, class of '41.  All four of the wedding principals are employed at Kayser silk mill in Walton.  The two couples will make their home after July 8, in Walton.

 

Terwilliger - Juckette

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 4, 1946

 

Mildred Juckette, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], was married to George Terwilliger, of Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], Friday afternoon, June 21, at 2 o'clock, at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Craver, West Bainbridge.  The ceremony as performed by the Rev. Norman Lawton, pastor of the First Baptist Church in Bainbridge.  The couple was attended by Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Craver.  The bride chose a street-length dress of aqua with a corsage of red roses, while Mrs. Craver wore a dress of American Beauty crepe with a yellow corsage.  After a short wedding trip they will reside at Winegard street, Sidney, where Mr. Terwilliger is employed at the Scintilla Magneto Division, Bendix Aviation Corp. 

 

Agar - Chrisfield

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 4, 1946

 

Mr. and Mrs. H. Edward Chrisfield, of Gilbertsville, announced the engagement of their daughter, Helen, to Charles Agar, Jr., at a cocktail party recently in their home.  Hand-painted cards being the news of the betrothal were distributed to the guests by Nona Slaughter.  The wedding is planned for July 20.  Miss Chrisfield is a graduate of Wellesley College, Class of 1944.  Her fiancé, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Agar, Sr., of Delmar [Albany Co., NY], was recently discharged from the U.S. Army Air Corps.

Elliott - Haynie

Bainbridge News & Republican, June 27, 1946

Sidney [Delaware Co., NY]:  Theodore F. Elliott, son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred A. Elliott, of Sidney, was married June 7 to Miss LaRue Haynie at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. L.M. Haynie, Alamosa, Colo.  It was a scene of a double wedding when Mrs. Elliott's former schoolmate, Ruth Udy, became the bride of Douglas B. Dare, of Dallas, Texas.  William Kent, Jr., of Sidney, was the best man.  He and Mr. Elliott drove to Alamosa together for the wedding and Mr. Kent flew back to Sidney.  A candlelight double ring ceremony was conducted by Bishop E. R. Guthrie, of Alamosa, before 30 relatives and friends.  Miss Haynie was given in marriage by her father.  Louise Haynie, sister of the bride, and Katherine Brim, Salt Lake City, Utah, were bridesmaids.  Following the ceremony, a luncheon was served to members of the bridal party and guests. After spending some time at Colorado Springs and in California, the couple will return to Sidney, where they will reside.  Mrs. Elliott graduated form Alamosa High School and attended the University of Utah for two years. She is a graduate nurse and served as an army nurse for two years.  She spent nearly nine months with the 81st Field Hospital Unit in the European Theatre of Operations as a first lieutenant.  She was recently a surgical nurse at the LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City.  Mr. Elliott was graduated from Sidney High School in 1931 and from the University of Rochester in 1936.  He was in the service for three and a half years serving in the Army Medical Administrative Corps and was first lieutenant at the time of his discharge.  he was in the European area for about a year.  He is a practicing optometrist in Sidney and Deposit.  He will be in Deposit July 10.

Devine - Weeks

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 11, 1946

Miss Louella Weeks, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank S. Weeks, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], was married to Hugh A. Devine, son of Mrs. Ray W. Devine, of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], Sunday, June 30, at 4 o'clock in the First Baptist Church, Bainbridge.  The double ring ceremony was performed by the Rev. Norman Lawton, pastor of the church.  The church was appropriately decorated for the occasion with ferns and daisies.  Eugene Houck sang, "Oh Perfect Love," accompanied by Mrs. Lawton at the organ.  Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a gown of white satin made with long sleeves, with the yoke and train of net.  Her finger-tip veil was attached to a crown of seed pearls. She carried a nosegay of white roses and wore a three-strand pearl necklace, an heirloom of the bridegroom's family.  Miss Beverly Nichols, of Oneonta, classmate of the bride, wore a gown of blue satin and net with a blue headdress of net and flowers, and carried a nosegay of talisman roses.  The bridesmaids were Mrs. Lloyd Sipple and Miss Jean Bacon, both of Bainbridge, who wore gowns of pink and blue, respectively, with matching headdresses of flowers and net.  Both carried nosegays of talisman roses.  Albert M. Brown, of Williamsport, Pa., acted as best man.  Donald Patchen; and Roger and Lloyd Weeks, brothers of the bride, were ushers.  Mrs. Weeks, mother of the bride, was attired in a beige suit with brown accessories and a corsage of talisman roses.  Mrs. Devine, mother of the bridegroom wore navy with white accessories and a corsage of red and white roses.    A reception was held at the bride's home following the ceremony, for more than 50 guests.  The bride is a graduate of Bainbridge Central High School and School of Nursing, Wilson Memorial Hospital. The bridegroom is a graduate of Binghamton Central High School and has recently returned from overseas.  he has a position with Link Aircraft corp.  After a short wedding trip to the northern part of the state they will make their home in Binghamton. 

 

 

Obituaries (January 1)

R. Wilbur Foote

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 11, 1946

Word has been received here by Mrs. Arta M. Teachout of the death of her brother, R. Wilbur Foote, who died suddenly Sunday, June 15, at his home in San Diego, Calif.  Mr. Foote expected to visit Bainbridge this month.  He was born Apr. 18, 1892, the son of the late Albert and Frances Foote, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].  Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Aleine Foote, and a son, Bruce, both of San Diego, Calif.; one sister, Arta Teachout, and one niece, Miss Dorothy Teachout, both of Bainbridge.

 

Gladys Sands Gifford

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 11, 1946

 

Mrs. Gladys Sands Gifford, 36, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] R.D.2, widow of the late Harvey Gifford, died Saturday at the Sidney Hospital.  She is survived by three children, Jean, Sandra and Donald Gifford; her mother, Mrs. Mamie R. Sands, all of Bainbridge, R.D.2; two brothers, Howard Sands, of Sidney, and George Sands, of Masonville; a sister, Mrs. Rose Smith, of Masonville; her grandmother, Mrs. Jennie Tiffany, of Windsor, also several nieces and nephews.  Services were held at the Fisher Funeral Chapel Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock.  The Rev. Norman Lawton officiated.  Burial was in Prospect Hill Cemetery at Sidney [Delaware Co., NY].

 

Francis A. Zagata

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 11, 1946

 

Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY]:  Francis A. Zagata, 29, Oneonta war veteran, was drowned in Gilbert Lake last Thursday afternoon within sight of about 1,500 persons on the lake front at the state park.  Two physicians who were in the park at the time worked on the Oneonta man after his body was pulled form the lake about 10 minutes after the accident.  Park officials called the Oneonta Fire Department and two firemen responded with a resuscitator.  Mr. Zagata was about 10 feet from the south float in the lake and about 50 feet from a life guard on duty in a rowboat when he went under the water.   According to park officials, none of the persons near the drowning man heard an outcry. 

 

Oneonta:  Francis A. Zagata, 29 Oneonta war veteran, was drowned in Gilbert Lake yesterday afternoon within sight of about 1,500 persons on the lakefront at the state park.  Two physicians who were in the park at the time worked on the Oneonta man after his body was pulled form the lake about 10 minutes after the accident.  Park officials called the Oneonta Fire Department and two firemen responded with a resuscitator.  Mr. Zagata was about 10 feet from the south float in the lake and about 50 feet from a life guard on duty in a rowboat when he went under the water.  According to park officials, none of the persons near the drowning man heard an outcry.   Miss Agnes Mumford, a companion, who was sitting on the bank said that she saw Mr. Zagata suddenly lift his arms and go under the water.  She shouted to a life guard in the boat near him.  The life guard began diving into the water which is about 15 feet deep at that point, and the body was found at about 3:55 p.m. by Donald St. John of 5-1/2 Columbia Street.  Park officials said that yesterday's drowning was the first since the park opened 20 years ago.  Dr. A.M. Skinner of Homer Folks Tuberculosis Hospital who was in the park at the time was called and a Utica doctor, who was swimming in the lake, attempted to revive Mr. Zagata until the fire department crew arrived.  A former Oneonta athlete, Mr. Zagata was a competent swimmer according to friends.  He recently had passed his physical examination for appointment to the city fire department and was third on the civil service eligibility list.  Veteran of four years' service in the army airforces, Mr. Zagata had served as a staff sergeant in the Pacific theatre as a gunner and an engineer on a Flying Fortress.  He is survived by his parents Mr. and Mrs. Michael Zagata of 30 Gilbert Street; five sisters, Miss Helen Zagata and Miss Aileen Zagata who were at Gilbert Lake with their brother at the time of his death; Mrs. Joseph Zarnsky, Mrs. Raymond Camp, and Mrs. Hugh MacNeil; and two brothers, Michael Zagata, Jr., and John W. Zagata, all of this city.  [Binghamton Press, July 5, 1946]

 

Oneonta:  Funeral services for Francis A. Zagata, who was drowned July 4 in Gilbert Lake, will be conducted Monday morning at his home, 30 Gilbert Street, at 8:45 and at 9:30 o'clock in St. Mary's Church here.  The body was removed form Rothery's Funeral home here to the Gilbert Street residence today. Friends may call at the home tonight and tomorrow. Mr. Zagata, 29-year-old veteran of the Army Air Forces, served for four years in Dutch Guiana, Panama, Puerto Rico, South America and Trinidad.  He was a graduate of Oneonta High School and Attended State Teachers College here.  He was a member of Sergt. Elbert N. Patten Post, Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American legion Post here.  He also was a member of St. Mary's Church and the Holy Name Society. Two days before his death he was employed with Lina Coach and Truck Corp., this city.  [Binghamton Press, July 6, 1946]

 

Rev. Ralph W. Carr

Bainbridge News & Republican, June 20, 1946

 

North Plainfield, N.J.:  The Rev. Ralph W. Carr, pastor of the Hydewood Park Baptist Church here for the last 14 years, died today in his home at 157 Westervelt avenue, at the age of 59.  Mr. Carr was born at Nineveh Junction [Broome Co., NY], and before entering the ministry was engaged in evangelistic work.  He attended the Bible School Park, Binghamton, and the Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, and was ordained in the Angelica Baptist church.  He came here from Cenlands, N.J., where he served as pastor for seven years.  He was a member of the board of the African  Christian Mission of Paterson, and the Bolivian Indian Mission of Plainfield.  Mr. Carr leaves a widow, Mrs. Elsa L. Sawyer Carr;  two daughters, Mrs. Raymond Davis, a missionary at Kano, Nigeria, West Africa, and Miss Doris P. Carr; a son, Ralph W. Jr., of  Milwaukee; a brother, Harry, of Afton; and three sisters Mrs. John A. Davis, of Bible School Park, Mrs. R. Clay Wilcox, of New York, and Mrs. Fred Chamberlin, of Afton--New York Times. 

 

 

Soldier News continued, 1946

C.A. Wilson In Army

Bainbridge News & Republican, June 27, 1946

Pvt. C.A. Wilson

 

Pvt. C.A. Wilson, former employee of the America Plastics Corp. [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], is now stationed at San Antonio, Texas.

 

Ardo Thomas Jr., Discharged from Army

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 4, 1946

 

T/5 Ardo K. Thomas, Jr., of the 347th Infantry, was discharged at Fort Dix, N.J., June 27.  Corporal Thomas served six months with the 3rd Army in Germany and Czechoslovakia and, after returning to the States, he was assigned to Fort Dix where he remained until his discharge.  He holds the European Theatre Ribbon with two stars, Victory Medal and American Campaign Medal.

 

Andrew Sejersen Jr. Discharged from Navy

Bainbridge News & Republican, July 11, 1946

 

Andrew J. Sejersen, Jr., AOM 3/C, was discharged June 20 at Lido Beach after 26 months of service with the Navy, the past seven months being spent in the Pacific Theatre.  He holds the American Theatre Ribbon, Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon and Victory Medal.