Murder of B,H, Welton - 1888

Brutally Murdered October 1, 1888

B.H. Welton receives Four Knife Wounds

A Tough Takes a Man's Life Without Provocation

Scenes of the Tragedy

 

The details of the brutal murder of B.H. Welton in Bainbridge, Chenango county [NY], last week, were given in the last issue of the Globe.  Mr. Welton, who was about 48 years old, was in the cigar store of Wilcox Brothers, soon after 7 o'clock Monday evening, and was engaged in conversation with one of the firm when William Gilbert, a cigarmaker, who had been employed by the Messrs. Wilcox, entered and passed to the rear of the store where the cigar shop is located.  He turned without entering the shop and approached to where Welton stood talking.  Without saying a word or giving any sign of his intention he thrust the blade of a jackknife into Welton's right side just below the ribs.  This was followed by three more tab wounds, when Welton knocked Gilbert down.  Everything was done for the wounded man, but he expired the Wednesday following.   

 

The store where Welton was murdered.

 

The deceased was well known and popular.  Previous to his death he made an anti-mortem statement saying that he was in Wilcox Bros.' cigar store when Gilbert cam in, passed to the back of the store, and turning ran towards him striking him with the knife as he passed.  Gilbert asked him to see if he bled any, and putting his hand on his hip he felt blood.  Gilbert wanted him to take off his coat and rest and look again and he did, but refused to take off his shirt as Gilbert ask him to do.  After Gilbert stabbed him in the bowels, he knocked his assailant down and walked to Pierce' grocery.

 

B.H. Welton, The Murdered Man

 

The assassin after he did the murderous work left the cigar store, met a constable and gave himself up.  He was handcuffed and placed in the lockup, where during the night he set fire to his cot while he yelled like a demon and came near to destroying the building. 

 

Handcuffing the Murderer

 

On the morning of the tragedy he worked for an hour or so in the cigar shop of Wilcox Brothers, and towards night went to the Central Hotel, kept by I.N. Wilsey, tried to borrow a dollar of the proprietor and to get a drink but was refused.  Afterwards he went to Wendell's hardware store and bought a knife, a two-bladed one, the large blade straight and three inches long.  He returned to the hotel barroom for a few minutes before going to the scene of his deadly attack.

 

George R. Wilcox

 

He was visited by several physicians on Tuesday to judge as to his insanity, which will be the plea when he is arraigned for trial.  His father, Eben Gilbert, a respected resident of Bainbridge, told a reporter that his son had shown signs of insanity on several occasions during the last few years. The father stated that on Monday his son acted strangely all day and did not eat his supper, but left the house suddenly.  It is said that Gilbert had read and brooded over the newspaper reports of the mysterious White Chapel murders in London and it is thought aspired to do something of the sort himself and tried to disembowel Welton after the manner of the foreign freak.  He was intoxicated at the time of making the assault.

 

Our Illustrations

 

The Globe's first illustration represents the cigar store where Welton was killed.  the letter "A" indicates the spot were Welton was standing when stabbed; "B" marks the position of Gilbert when he struck the first blow, and "C" shows where he stood in delivering the three last stabs.

 

Gilbert is 22 years of age and has been known as a "tough."  He was held for the grand jury, which meets next February.

 

George R. Wilcox whose portrait [is provided above], witnessed the murder, and at the time was standing on the opposite side of the counter engaged in conversation with poor Welton.

 

One who also saw the fatal stabs was Frank Aylesworth, being seated only a few feet from Welton.

 

 

Edward B. Kirby was seated beside young Aylesworth and will be an important witness in the coming trial.

 

 

H.D. Copley, the physician who attended the dying man, will be called upon in court to describe the wounds which caused death.

 

 

W.B. Matterson is the attorney who took charge of the case for the people, and he has been retained to assist the district attorney in the trial.

 

 

Master Wheeler is the Globe agent in Bainbridge, and although he will not be 10 years old till next April, he is a hustler.  He secured the portraits from which the Globe's illustrations are made, and he will sell 300 copies of this paper this week.

 

 



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Watertown Times, May 1, 1890

 



The trial of W.G. Gilbert, indicted for murder of B.H Welton at Bainbridge, Chenango county, is finished. in Norwich.  The jury returned a verdict of guilty of murder in the second degree, and the prisoner was sentenced to imprisonment for life at hard labor in Auburn.

 

Welton was an insurance man and a popular resident of Bainbridge.  On the night of Oct. 1, 1888, he was standing in a store when Gilbert came in, and without any provocation fatally stabbed him.  Gilbert is 24 years of age; the defense was insanity.  The jury found that Gilbert had been living a depraved life, drunk most of the time, and had a motive been found the verdict would have been murder in the first degree.

 





 

 

 

 



 

 







Obituaries (May 9)

Mrs. William McQueen

Utica Saturday Globe, May 5, 1906

 

 

Mrs. William McQueen

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY[:  At her home on Court street Wednesday evening of last week, occurred the death of Mrs. William McQueen, aged 59.  Recently  Mrs. McQueen underwent an operation and it was at first thought that she would recover, but owing to her weakened condition she was unable to survive the shock.  Deceased was born in the town of Norwich and since her marriage to William McQueen about 35 years ago had resided in this village.  Mr McQueen died about three years ago.  Mrs. McQueen was a member of the National Protective Legion and leaves many friends.  Her only surviving near relative is an aunt, Mrs. Jane King, of this village.  The funeral was held from her late home on Court street this (Friday) afternoon Rev. J.S. Southworth officiating.  Burial was made in Mt. Hope cemetery [Norwich, NY]

 

Henry M. Ireland

1846 - 1912

Monday evening, June 17, 1912, marked the death of H.M. Ireland, one of West Bainbridge's [Chenango Co. NY] respected citizen's.  Mr. Ireland was born June 6, 1846, in West Bainbridge and was a resident of this neighborhood all his life  In the year 1871, Feb. 27, he was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Sweet of Coventry.  She was a woman of beautiful character and exemplary life but died June 27, 1886.  January 15, 1888, he was united in marriage to Miss Lily Terwilliger.  To this union a daughter was born June 1889, and died January 17, 1896.  Eight years ago Mr. Ireland began to break physically and was unable to follow his vocation. Three years ago L.H. Yetter with his family moved into the Ireland homestead, and faithfully cared for Mr. Ireland until death ended his earthly troubles.  He was a kind hearted man, a good neighbor and is kindly remembered by those who knew him best. The funeral services were held from the Yetter home Wednesday June 19, 1912, where the brother died. The services were in charge of Rev. Frank James, assisted by the choir.  Interment was made in the Union Valley Cemetery.  Mr. Ireland is revived by one sister, Mrs. John Matteson, two  nieces Mrs. LH. Yetter of West Bainbridge, and Mrs. Jessie M. Russell of Orlando, Florida.

 

Addie Louise Woodruff

1878  - 1913

Addie L. Woodruff died at her home in Yaleville [Guilford, Chenango Co., NY] Tuesday morning, May 20th 1913, at 6 o'clock, and was the only daughter of Lewis J. and Laviona M. Woodruff.  She was born June 8th, 1878, on her grandfather's old homestead which is known as the Beriah Bradley farm.  When about two years of age her parents removed to the place where they now reside.  Her funeral was held from her late home Friday, May 23d at 1:30, the Rev. Mr. Little of Christ Church, Guilford, officiating.  There was a profusion of flowers contributed by loving friends, which were only true symbols of her pure life and character.  She had been in failing health for some time, but her condition was not thought dangerous until Sunday, when there was a slight change, and at Monday noon she grew rapidly worse and in spite of medical skill she passed away at 6 o'clock Tuesday morning.  We can no better portray her departing hours than in the following lines:

 

We watched her breathing through the night,

Her breathing soft and low,

As in her breast the wave of life,

Kept heaving to and fro.

 

So silently we seemed to speak,

So slowly moved about,

As we had lent her half our powers

To eke her living out.

 

Our very hopes belied our fears,

Our tears our hopes bellied;

We thought her dying when she slept,

And sleeping when she died.

 

For when the morn came, dim and sad,

And chill with early showers,

Her eyelids closed; she had

Another morn than ours.

 

As review her past life from the cradle to the grave, as we have known her and seen reflected in it those beauties of daughterly love and devotion to her parents, it was her sweetest thought and wish to ever bring sunshine and good wishes into her home with all its loving sacredness to her, and with all its tender ties and associations in her mother's never failing love and devotion to an only daughter which never failed, and grew stronger and more ... in the advance of years.  Never in all the work of truth and fiction has there ever existed such a picture, so  beautiful and so expressive of loyal love between parents and daughter, and it never failed until in that Golden Sunset in death, when the dear one passed out of sight and behind the twilights "Purple hill of the New Jerusalem" where the same love will blossom forever.  Her life was full of those beautiful traits of character and a mind bright and blessed with those noble and inspiring energies of womanly nature and beauty that made her companionship sweet, and her presence everywhere was like a ray of sunshine that diffused and warmed the hearts of those who were blessed with her acquaintance.  She in her early years gave her heart to God and her church, and lived in the sunlight of that faith and hope of a blessed immortality. She was a member of Christ's Church of Guilford and was for many years a faithful member of the church choir and whose voice was so sweet in song and chorus, as we know it will be in the Heavenly choir with the angel voices singing with her Heaven's sweetest melodies. She has left behind a wealth of golden deeds.  Oh, how sad the parting and severing of the ties on earth, and yet how sweet and tender are God's promises and assurance, "that though we die, yet shall we live again in that higher life and in that supernal love and reunion with God and her dear ones.  And so she has left us just at the dawn of Spring, when all the world has turned its face and thought toward a new resurrection, bringing anew to our minds of a Risen Saviour, and so in nature's springtime we lay her away to sleep beneath the smiling face of mother earth, and to wait the glad resurrection morn, for Jesus makes us understand that we must take the parting hand.

Irma Winchell

Bainbridge News & Republican, November 9, 1944

Mrs. Irma Winchell, 53, of Windsor [Broome Co., NY], R.D.1, died Friday at the Binghamton City Hospital.  She is survived by her husband, Laurence L. Winchell, and three sons, Claude and Jack, of Windsor, R.D.1, and Lee, of Binghamton; a sister, Mrs. James Lane, and two brothers, George and Lewis Burgher, all of Endicott; three grandchildren and nine nieces and nephews.  The body was removed to the chapel of Clinton E. Wood Windsor.

 

Earl H. Friend

Bainbridge News & Republican, November 9, 1944

Earl H. Friend, 53, popular Delhi [Delaware Co., NY] florist and mail carrier, passed away very suddenly at his home in that village Wednesday, Nov. 1, after an illness of only four days.  Death was caused by coronary occlusion.  He was born Oct. 11, 1891, at Davenport [Delaware Co., NY], the son of Lena Cargil and M. Jay Friend.  The family went to Delhi in 1906 and for the past 27 years Mr. Friend had operated Friend's Greenhouses. The past 25 years he has been rural mail carrier and was soon to have been retired.

 

Howard Moore

Bainbridge News & Republican, November 9, 1944

Howard Moore, aged 52, died recently at Goshen Hospital of injuries sustained in an accident at the New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad Co. at Maybrook [Orange Co., NY].  A resident of Walden [Orange Co., NY] for three years, Mr. Moore was employed as a switch tender at the Maybrook yards.  The injuries which resulted in his death, described in the health officer's report as accidental, occurred as a motor car used in the yards to push freight engines and to switch cars struck him while he was at work. Besides a wife, one son and two daughters, he leaves three brothers, one of them at Hancock, and a sister, Mrs. Fred Turner of Deposit.

Bainbridge Central School Faculty - 1939

Bainbridge Central School Faculty

"Echo" 1939

 

 

1st Row: 

Mabel Smith:  Science, dynamic, A word to the wise is sufficient.

Ralph Corbin, Jr.:  Music, cosmopolitan, Don't put off till tomorrow what you can do today.

Anna Naylor: 1st grade, beneficent, Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.

Francis Casey:  Principal, Equable, Weary is the head that wears the crown.

Florence Bliss:  Grade Teacher, Natural, Be yourself.

Orris Coe:  Industrial arts, Agriculture, Dexterous, A stitch in time saves nine.

Mildred Petley:  English, Busy, Join the navy and see the world.

 

2nd Row:

Janice Pratt: 5th grade, Winsome, A friend in need is a friend indeed

Florence Elberson :  Junior High School, Public Speaking, Felicitous, Laugh and the world laughs with you.

Louise Lewis:  5th grade, Energetic, All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.

Emil Best:  Coach, Junior High School, Robust, Play the game.

Frederick Stutz :  History, Loquacious, People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones.

William Baker:  Commercial, Junior High School, Debonair, Clothes make the man.

Ruth Benjamin:  Music, Jocular, Music makes the world go around.

Margaret Wilcox:  Librarian, Industrious, A watched pot never boils.

Dorothy Adams:  Commercial, Resolute, Silence is golden.

 

3rd Row:

Lula Jones:  6th grade, Dignified, It's an ill wind that blows nobody good.

Mildred Evans:  Mathematics, Petite, Great things come in little packages.

Mary Burdick: Physical Education, Gracious, Help yourself to happiness.

Carolyn Casson: Latin, Graceful, See yourself as others see you.

Ruth Hager: Nurse, Sagacious, Be prepared.

Helen Pratt:  Art, Chic, Better late than never.

Katharine Flynn:  Home Economics, Companionable, A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.

 

4th Row:

Mrs. Claude Butler

Louise Whitman:  4th grade, Idealistic, All's well that ends well.

Frances Kentfield:  Junior High School, Practical, Rome was not built in a day.

Elizabeth Finch:  2nd grade, Poised, Don't count your chickens before that are hatched.

Dolores Lloyd:  3rd grade, Ambitious, A rolling stone gathers no moss.

Phyllis Palmer:  1st grade, Modest, Don't lock the barn door after the horse has been stolen.

 

Marriages (May 8)

Mr. & Mrs. C.H. Smith

A pleasant surprise was given Mr. and Mrs. C.H. Smith of South Hill near Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Saturday, March 21, the occasion being the 20th anniversary of their marriage.  Relatives and friends to the number of fifty gathered with them at eleven o'clock and all showed by their smiling faces they anticipated a happy time.  A bounteous dinner was served after which a purse of money was presented to them as a slight token of the love and esteem in which they are held.  The day will long be remembered by all who were there as a most joyous occasion.  These lines were written by Mr. Smith's father, who recently celebrated his eighty-eighth birthday:

 

To Mr. and Mrs. C.H. Smith, on the 20th anniversary of their marriage:

 

Though twenty fair years have passed over your head,

Since you traveled together as one;

Accept this true greeting from friends that have met

To help you observe its return.

If your friends are assembled to greet you today,

Just pleasantly ask them to dine,

And tell them if ever the chance should occur.

Most surely you'd pay them "in kind."

"Come again" is the motto you surely will use.

As you bow them good bye at the door;

As you think of the pleasure you shared,

As you turn to your duties once more.

That I cannot be with you I sincerely regret,

As this token will surely express

But I'll think of you often and wish you good luck,

Yours truly,  J.W.S. [James Wheeler Smith]



 

Wolf - Webb

Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944

The marriage of Miss Helen June Webb, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fern Webb, of Crofton, Ky., to Russel Henry Wolf, of Dushore, Pa., son of Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Wolf, Sr., of Susquehanna, Pa., was solemnized, Sunday, Oct. 8, in the Windsor Methodist Church.  The ceremony was performed by the pastor, the Rev. E.G.W. Estlow. The bride attended Windsor Central School, having graduated in 1937, and for several years has been employed at the New York State Electric and Gas office in Binghamton.

 

Hall - Mee

Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944

Mr. and Mrs. William D. Mee, of Windsor R.D. [Broome Co., NY], announce the engagement of their daughter, Kathleen Hanora, to Private Lawrence E. Hall, U.S.Army, son of Mrs. Eva Furney, of Williamstown.  Miss Mee is a graduate of Windsor Central School, class of '41.  Private Hall is a graduate of Morrisville A.&T. College, class of '41.  He has just returned to this country after serving 19 months combat duty in the European theatre of war.  He is now stationed at Westhampton Beach, L.I.  The wedding is planned for early November.

 

Mr. & Mrs. Henry Frey

Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944

The 50th wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Frey, of Windsor R.D. [Broome Co., NY],was Oct. 5 and was celebrated Sunday, Oct. 8, with a party at their home, given by their eight sons.

Obituaries (May 8)

George A. Brossway

Utica Saturday Globe, May 5, 1906

 

 

George A. Brossway

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  After an illness extending over a period of seven months, George A. Brossway died at his home on Columbia avenue Wednesday afternoon, aged 32 years.  Although his death was not unexpected for several days, it was a shock to his family and many friends.  Deceased was born in St Albans, Vt., January 21, 1874, son of Mitchell and Mary Legrand Brossway.  Fourteen years ago he came to Norwich with his parents and soon after he entered the O.&W. machine shops and learned the machinist's trade which he has since followed.  For three years he had charge of the night force at the shops.  He was a good workman and enjoyed the respect and esteem of all of his associates.  About seven months ago he suffered a shock and since that time had been confined to his home most of the time.  On Easter Sunday he was taken to the home of his parents adjoining his own to spend the day and during the afternoon was taken worse and gradually failed until the end.  He was a most patient sufferer during his illness.  A kind husband, a loving son and brother and a good friend, he will be greatly missed in the family circle and by a host of warm friends.  He was a past sachem of Whaupaunaucau Tribe of Red Men, a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Machinists' Union.  In June, 1904, he married Miss Anna Brouilette, of St. Albans, Vt., who survives, with his parents, two brothers, Edward and William, and eight sisters, Clara, Anna, Emma, Sarah, Nellie, Mary, Gertrude and Mrs. Albert Bowker, all of Norwich.  The funeral will be held from St. Paul's Church Saturday morning at 10 o'clock.  Rev. Fathers Hart and Curtin officiating.  Burial will be made in St. Paul's Cemetery [Norwich, NY].

Mrs. Charles Pearsall Sweet

A great shock occurred to the neighbors of Mrs. Charles Pearsall Sweet of Searles Hill, Monday morning, Jan. 31st, when they heard of her death which was unexpected to all.  She only lived three days after she was taken violently ill, last Thursday afternoon of gall stones.  Her age was 53 years and five months.  She was born and had always lived on the farm where she died.  Beside her husband she is survived by her sister, Miss Eveline Pearsall.  She was a faithful member of the Methodist church and a kind and loving neighbor, ever ready to help in time of need.  The funeral services were conducted by Rev. G.E. Van Woert at the home on Wednesday, at 11 o'clock and burial was in Green Lawn cemetery, Bainbridge.

 

Nancy J. (Hovey) Bradley
Jan 24, 1837 - Nov. 27, 1897

Nancy J. Hovey, wife of David Bradley, died at her home in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] Saturday, Nov. 27th, aged 61 years.  After a long year's suffering and weariness the death angel came and bore our loved one far away beyond the cares and trials of life.  As we look back through the changing years we see her as a faithful wife, loving mother and true friend.  Loving friends have gathered often during her sickness and striven faithfully to check the hand of the spoiler, but God knew best.  he saw what we could not, that beyond it all unseen hands were beckoning her away and some way it needs God's chiseling hand to bring out the beautiful patient life that is now forever at rest, in that land where sorrow and suffering are unknown.  She was a faithful member of the M.E. church and always in her place of duty. Though she suffered great pain she ever seemed hopeful and cheerful.  In her own words she said, "I could not bear it in my own strength." but she found the grace of God sufficient and in Him she trusted.  Our hearts are filled with love and sympathy for him who for many years has walked close by her side, and for the son and daughter who have lost the truest of earthly friends, a mother. There are brothers and sister also who mourn a link lost form their childhood's home.  Her funeral was held at her late home Wednesday, Dec. 1st, at one p.m., her pastor, Rev. Mr. Williams, conducting the services.  Many friends followed her remains to the cemetery at Yaleville where all that was mortal was laid to rest.  The friends have shown their love and sympathy for the departed and the family in every way possible, both during the sickness of Mrs. Bradley and after death..

Clara B. Stanton

Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944

Mrs. Clara B Stanton, 82, died Sunday at the home of her daughter Mrs. Harry C. Anson, Nineveh [Broome Co., NY].  She is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Floyd E. Webb, of Center Village; Mrs. Harry C. Anson, of Nineveh, and Mrs. C.E. Warmuth, of Detroit, Mich.  Two sons, Walter C. Stanton, of Binghamton, and Guy C. Stanton, of Unadilla; one sister, Mrs. Madge LaTourette, of Honesdale, Pa.; one brother, Guy Robinson, of Meriden, Conn.  Funeral Services were at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Harry C Anson, Nineveh.  The Rev. Douglas, of the Afton Baptist church, officiated.  Burial was in Chenango Valley Cemetery [Binghamton, Broome Co., NY].

Ivan L. Stevens

Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944

Ivan L. Stevens, 32, of R.D. 2, Harpursville [Broome Co., NY], died in the Binghamton City Hospital Sunday morning.  He is survived by his widow, Alene; three daughters Roberta, Ellen and Sandra; his mother, Mrs. Mary Stevens, of Kirkwood; three brothers, Floyd, of R.D.1, Great Bend; Benjamin, of Binghamton, and Dannie, of Afton; one sister, Mrs. Charles White, of Binghamton. The body was removed to the Kark Funeral Home.  Harpursville.  Funeral services were held from the Methodist church in Sanitaria Springs Wednesday afternoon, the Rev. Newton Cooper officiating.  Burial was in Riverside Cemetery, Windsor [Broome Co., NY].

William Webb

Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944

William Webb, of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], died Saturday after being in poor health for four years. The funeral was held Tuesday with burial in Evergreen Hill Cemetery [Unadilla, NY].  Mr. Webb was born Apr. 24, 1864, in Rugby, North Hampshire, England.  He came to this country with his parents when he was six years of age, locating in Unadilla, which has since been his home.  Fifty-seven years ago he married Miss Delia Matteson in Unadilla.  Mr. Webb was a much respected farmer, retiring from active work several years ago and moving into Unadilla village.  Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Charles Fiske; two sons, William T.A. Webb, of Sidney, and Richard Webb, of Unadilla; a brother, Frank Webb, of Unadilla.

Sidney Enterprise, October 12, 1944

William Webb of Unadilla died Saturday at 9:30 p.m. after being in poor health for four years. The funeral was held Tuesday at 2:00 from the Joyce funeral home at Unadilla with burial in the family plot in Evergreen Hill cemetery, beside his wife who died June 24.  Rev. Clayton Hoag, pastor of the Unadilla Methodist church, officiated.  Mr. Webb was born April 24, 1864, in Rugby, North Hampshire, England, son of John A. and Sarah (Larbum) Webb.  He came to this country with his parents when he was 6, locating in Unadilla, which has since been his home.  Fifty-seven years ago he married Miss Delia Matteson in Unadilla.  Mr. Webb was a much respected farmer, retiring from active work several years ago and moving into Unadilla village.  He served as constable for 20 years, and was a member of the Methodist church.  Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Charles Fish; two sons, William T. A. Webb of Sidney, and Richard Webb of Unadilla; a brother, Frank Webb of Unadilla; five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
 

Stephen Winsor Renounces Freemasonry - 1829

Stephen Winsor Renounces Freemasonry
Antimasonic Telegraph, April 8, 1829

In calling attention of our readers to the following letter to the editors, from Mr. Stephen Winsor, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], absolving himself from all connexion with the masonic fraternity, we have but a single remark to make--and that is this:  As a man, a citizen and a Christian, whose word can be relied on, he is so far above reproach, that nothing short of masonic malice has, we believe, ever ventured to whisper aught against him--and even then has laboured in vain to find materials to do him an injury where he is known, and his probity and uprightness are duly appreciated.

 

Renunciation of Freemasonry

To the editors of the Telegraph:

Ever since the abduction and probable murder of William Morgan, I have been led seriously to meditate on the subject of freemasonry.  About twenty years since, I became a member of the fraternity, and remained so nearly ten years; at which time having, as I verily believe, experienced a change of heart, freemasonry became burdensome to my mind.  I found that religion and freemasonry were at variance with each other and for that reason, I withdrew from the institution.  I have gone no farther than the three first and am convinced from information that religion has no connexion whatever with higher degrees.  Some of the order pretend that masonry is of Divine origin and hold it out as a benefit to mankind.  We are assured from scripture that God has no respect of persons.  If it be a religious institution, why do not persons receive benefit from it before they arrive to the age of twenty-one years!  A minor, at the age of twelve or fourteen years, is in many instances admitted in our courts of justice, under oath, to give evidence in matters of great importance; but freemasons cannot place sufficient confidence in a person to administer an oath to keep their secrets, until he arrives to the age of twenty-one.  There is no scripture to prove that a man can derive advantages from an institution, while at the same time his wife and children are deprived of the benefits thereof. 

 

All men who join the fraternity are bound by the strongest oaths to keep inviolate their secrets, even before they know their import.  If the reader has any hesitation as to the propriety of forswearing, I would refer him to Leviticus V. 3,4,5, where it can be read in plain words.  Under all these circumstances, and a number of others which I have not mentioned, I feel it my duty to publicly renounce all fellowship with the institution of freemasonry.

Stephen Winsor

Guilford, March 18, 1829

[Note:  information about the abduction and presumed murder of William Morgan mentioned above can be found at the following link:  http://www.murderbygaslight.com/2009/12/william-morgan-revenge-of-freemasons.html ]

Obituaries (May 7)

Ida M. Lewis

Utica Saturday Globe, May 5, 1906

 

Ida M. Lewis



Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. Ida M. Lewis, wife of Jerome B. Lewis, died at her home on West Main street Wednesday morning aged 43.  She had been ill for more than a year and during that period had been a great sufferer, but had borne all with a cheerfulness that faded only at death.  Mrs. Lewis was born in the town of German, Chenango county, in 1863, but with her husband had resided in Norwich for the past 17 years.  She became a member of Lily of the Valley Lodge, Daughters of Rebekah, in 1897 and had filled in succession the various offices in the lodge. She was elected vice grand in 1901 and noble grand in 1902; in 1903 she represented the lodge as delegate to the assembly at Hornellsville and in 1905 was appointed district deputy by president of the assembly, Sister Agnes Lloyd, an appointment she held at the time of her death.  For eight years she had been an attendant of the Broad Street M.E. Church. She was a member of the N.P.L. and by her social qualities had drawn to herself a large circle of warm friends who deeply deplore her death.  She is survived by her husband, Jerome B. Lewis and two children, a son, Bert E. Lewis, and a daughter Grace Lewis; by a sister, Mrs. Corey Hubbard, of Coventry, and by a brother, William Galliland, of Binghamton.  Funeral services were conducted this afternoon from her late residence, 71 West Main street.  Rev. Wilson Treible officiating and the Daughters of Rebekah having charge of the ceremony, which was largely attended.

Sarah M. Fitch

1800 - 1874

Mrs. Sarah M. Fitch, the victim of the recent tragedy in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], was born in Fairfield county, Conn., in the year 1800, and was the wife of Eleazer H. Fitch.  Early in the years of their married life, they came to Guilford, and settled at the Centre, near the scene of the terrible murder, committed on Sunday morning, Dec. 27th, 1874.  For many years, Mr. Fitch was engaged in mercantile pursuits, amassing a large fortune.  He built the house in which Mrs. Fitch met her horrible fate.  It is finely situated, and surrounded by trees, and in former days was the scene of much pleasure and unbounded hospitality.  They were among the earliest members of the Episcopal Church in Guilford, and were ever her staunch and liberal supporters.  Soon after the death of Mr. Fitch, which occurred in 1852, Mrs. Fitch presented the farm and house to her niece, Mrs. Hall, and removed to Norwich, where she had resided up to the time of her death.  She has always manifested a lively interest in Guilford and its Church, presenting it only a short time since with a costly Communion Service, and other valuable articles.  On the 24th of December, she went from Norwich to spend the Christmas tide among the old friends whom she loved.  She was present at the Christmas Eve services and afterwards participated in the Sunday School Festival; on Christmas day she attended Church and received her last communion, in the little church she loved.  She was buried from the church on Wednesday, the 30th, the burial rites being said by Rev.  H.V. Gardner and Rev. Mr. Loveridge, of Norwich.  Thus a Christian woman of wealth, benevolence and intelligence, has passed swiftly to her reward, honored, lamented and esteemed, by a large circle of relatives and friends, in whose minds the memory of her good life and noble deeds will ever remain.  --Oxford Times

Dr. C.A. Young

Chenango Union, 1882

We published, recently, a brief mention of the drowning of Dr. C.A. Young, in Oregon.  He was a former resident of Guilford Centre, this county [Chenango Co., NY], and the following letter to his brother, A.J. Young of that place, gives additional particulars of the sad event:

Tillamock, Oregon, Feb. 25, 1882
A.J. Young, Guilford Centre, N.Y.
Dear Sir--Your letter of January 24th is received, and in reply I will say that the report you received is only too true.  Dr. Young was drowned while crossing the Nehalem river, about twenty miles from where I live.  He was drowned when starting to come to our settlement to visit a patient.  It will never be known how it happened, but it is thought they (he was in company with C.A. Lamb) had reached the shore, and were attempting to get out of the boat.  It was an Indian canoe.  They are made of logs, and are very easily turned over, if a person does not understand them, and where they landed the bank is very steep--that is, goes right off into deep water, and is right at the mouth of the stream, where it empties into the Ocean.  As it is very swift, it is supposed, when they arose to get out of the canoe, it turned over, as their bodies were found only a few feet from the shore, close together.  I saw the Doctor a few days before his death.  He was at my father's house, was well and jolly, and full of fun, little thinking how soon he would be called on to travel that road from which none ever return.  The Doctor had resided here but a short time, but during that time he had gathered around him a large circle of friends, composed of our best citizens.  I never met a better hearted man.  he was drowned January 7th, 1882.  His body was recovered on the 11th, in a good state of preservation, was brought to Kilchis on Tillamock Bay, and buried in a respectable manner.  Yours with respect.---Charles H. Miller, Postmaster.

 

Reuben Fosbury

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, March 26, 1890

The funeral services of Mr. Reuben Fosbury, whose death occurred on Friday, were conducted at the Baptist Church by Rev. N. Ripley on Sunday at 12 pm.  Mr. Fosbury has always been a highly respected citizen and for many years held the office of Justice of the Peace.  In his death the Baptist society loses one of its strongest and most faithful members, his family a kind and affectionate husband and father. 

 

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, March 29, 1890

The funeral of R.C. Fosbury, who died Thursday, March 20th, was held at his home at West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] last Sunday, Rev. Mr. Ripley, pastor of the Baptist Church, at Masonville, officiating. The deceased was 82 years of age and was a deacon of the Baptist Church.  Mrs. M.D. Lane of this place [Afton, NY], was a daughter of the deceased.  The burial took place in the West Bainbridge Cemetery.

 

Mary Fisher

1902

Mary, wife of John Fisher, late of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], died December 1, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Fred Burton, residing on the Yaleville road.  She was sixty-four years old.  Her disease was an affection of the heart.  Funeral was held at the home Wednesday afternoon at 1 o'clock, Rev. Arthur Spaulding officiating and burial as in Green Lawn cemetery [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].  The deceased is survived by her husband and one son, Michael Fisher, and two daughters, the Mrs. George and Fred Burton.

Oh mother, they gentle voice is stilled

Thy warm, true heart is still;

And on thy pale and peaceful face

Is resting death's cold chill.

Thy hands are clasped upon thy breast.

We have kissed thy marble brow,

And in our aching hearts we know

We have no mother now.

 

 

Bainbridge High School Class of 1950 Part 2

Bainbridge Central High School, Class of 1950

Senior Portraits

"Echo" 1950

 

 

Joyce Eggleston - "Egg"

Loads of fun and full of pep,

Always ready to get in step

 

Hopes never to be:  An old maid

Can you imagine her not eating

Will miss most:  Eating last period with Arlene

Ambition:  Get a job

 

Robert Garrison -- "Basil"

His ability goes from sports to anything.

But most of all, makes our class with laughter ring.

 

Voted Most Popular, Class Wit, Best Natured, and Class Wolf

Hopes never to be owner of an oil-burner like Landre's car

Can you imagine him as Romeo

Will miss most:  Mr. Dunne and Mr. Blythe

Ambition:  Own a motorcycle

 

Doris Gorton -- "Dorie"

When ever there's work to be done,

She's always helping till the goal is won.

 

Voted Best Student

Hopes never to be penniless

Can you imagine her as a chorus girl

Will miss most:  The Seniors

Ambition:  To be a good accountant

 

Beatrice Green - "Bea"

A new addition to our class,

She is a very pleasant lass.

We wish to say we're glad she came

And hope that she, too, feels the same.

 

Hopes never to be:  An old maid

Can you imagine her tall

Will miss most:  Friendliness of the kids

Ambition:  To be Dick's wife

 

John Hohreiter -- "Johnny"

Progressive in every sport and F.F.A.,

in real life John will be O.K.

 

Hopes never to be a housewife

Can you imagine him stout

Will miss most:  Basketball

Ambition:  To travel

 

Gary Holman -- "Angus"

Gary is recognized as nobody's fool,

Is found in every corner in our school.

 

Hopes never to be a milkman

Can you imagine him being 5'2" tall

Will miss most:  The Seniors

Ambition:  Fly a jet plane

 

Marriages (May 6)

Doing - Rath

Utica Saturday Globe, September 22, 1906

 

Floyd and Kate (Rath) Doing

 

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The marriage of Miss Kate Rath and Floyd Doing was solemnized at St. Paul's rectory Tuesday evening at 8 o'clock, Rev Father John A. Hart officiating.  The attendants were Miss Allie Hare, a niece of the groom, and John Ryan.  Both young people are well known in Norwich. The bride is the daughter of Mrs. Mary Rath and for a number of years has been employed in the Marquis telephone office. The groom is a son of the late Loren Doing and is a painter by occupation.  After a brief trip to Binghamton and other places Mr. and Mrs. Doing will return to Norwich to reside.

 

Davis - Perry

Bainbridge News & Republican, September 21, 1944

Floyd R. Davis and Dora Bell Perry, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], were united in marriage on Wednesday, Sept. 6, by the justice Gerald T. Caffrey at his residence in Lanesboro.

 

Landers - Humphrey & Young  - Humphrey

Bainbridge News & Republican, October 12, 1944

Mr. and Mrs. E.A. Humphrey, of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], have announced the engagement of their daughters, Miss Dorothy E. Humphrey to David G. Landers, son of Erford Landers, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], and Miss Helen Humphrey to Sgt. Edwin K. Young, son of Irvin Young, of Los Angeles, formerly of Norwich.

 

Sibley - Reinhard

Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944

A pretty autumn wedding was solemnized at the home of Mr. and Mrs. George Reinhard, of Nineveh [Broome Co., NY], Friday evening, when their daughter, Edith Arms, was united in marriage to Pfc. Charles Sibley, a veteran Marine recently returned from Guadalcanal and other theaters of war.  He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Sibley, of Binghamton.  After a short wedding trip, Pfc. Sibley will return to Philadelphia, where he is now stationed and Mrs. Sibley will remain at the home of her parents and resume her work at the Scintilla for the present.

 

Peck - Wood

Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944

The marriage of Miss Mildred Alice Wood, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert S. Wood, of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], to Dr. Able Everett Peck, also of that city, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Horace Peck, of Granton, took place Saturday morning in the Chenango Street Methodist Church.  Assisted by the Rev. Joseph Smith, the Rev. Alfred Burke performed the ceremony.  Miss Elizabeth Britton played a program of organ music chosen by the bride, including Schubert's "Ave Maria," selections from Lohengrin and the wedding hymn, "Oh Promise Me."  A reception, followed by a wedding breakfast, was held in the Monday Afternoon Clubhouse for relatives and intimate friends.  The couple left later for Florida and on their return will reside at 3 Mather street, Binghamton.  Dr. Peck, a member of the Endicott Johnson Medical staff, will resume his practice in December.

 

 

 

 

Obituaries (May 6)

Prince A. Brewster

Utica Saturday Globe, November 3, 1906

 

 

Prince A. Brewster

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Death came suddenly to Prince A. Brewster, the well-known barber on Sunday morning.  Mr. Brewster stood talking with a friend on Lackawanna avenue, apparently in his usual cheerful spirits, when suddenly, with a sharp cry, he placed his hand over his heart and fell backward.  The friend sought to assist him and found that he was dead.  Neuralgia of the heart was the cause assigned by the physician who was hastily summoned.  Mr. Brewster was born in Brookfield [Madison Co., NY]about 60 years ago, but his home had been in Norwich for nearly half a century.  For the past 30 years he had conducted a barber shop, his last location being on Lackawanna avenue.  Funeral services were held from the A.M.E. Zion Church on Wednesday afternoon, the pastor, Rev. W.B. Caines, officiating.  Interment was made in Mount Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY].  Two sisters survive, Mrs. Benjamin Tillett and Mrs. Loren Rogers, both of Norwich.  A wife and a married daughter, Mrs. Daisy Wagner, also survive, residing in Oneida.

 

Dr. Lloyd Warren

Bainbridge News & Republican, September 21, 1944

Dr. Lloyd Warren, Franklin [Delaware Co., NY] physician, died suddenly Thursday morning, Sept. 14.  He was 62 years of age.  Dr. Warren had been in ill health the past few years but had continued practice and the added burden of a war time practice doubtless contributed to his death.  He dropped dead.  A Colchester boy, he attended Walton High School, from which he graduated in 1906, and later from the Baltimore Medical College.  Dr. Warren had practiced at Franklin some 30 years and was truly the beloved country doctor.  He will be greatly missed in the community where so much of his life has been spent.  Surviving are his wife and two daughters Jane, at home, and Helen, in Washington, D.C.

 

Eleanor (Kellogg) Palmer

Bainbridge News & Republican, October 12, 1944

Funeral services for Mrs. Eleanor (Kellogg) Palmer, who died at her Grand Gorge [Delaware Co., NY]  home Tuesday, were held at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Kellogg, at Treadwell Friday at 2.  A prayer service was held Thursday evening at the Ouderkirk Funeral Home, Grand Gorge, with the Rev. C.P. Hunter officiating.  Burial was in Treadwell cemetery. Born Mar. 14, 1914, she was a daughter of Charles and Ethel (Wheat) Kellogg, and a graduate of the Kellogg School at Treadwell and Hartwick College.  She taught commercial subjects at Grand Gorge and Unadilla prior to her marriage to Robert N. Palmer July 8, 1939.  Mrs. Palmer was active in community affairs, and treasurer of the Abagail Harper Chapter, D.A.R., until poor health prohibited these activities.  She was a member of the Treadwell Methodist Church.  Her death was caused by a heart ailment.  Surviving are her husband and parents; one sister, Mrs. Frank Lyon, of Hobart; two brothers, Carlton and Gerald Kellogg, of Treadwell; four nieces and two aunts.

Ella McLean

Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944

Miss Ella McLean passed away at her home, 8 Benton avenue, Walton [Delaware Co., NY], Tuesday, Oct. 10.  Death was caused by thrombosis, after an illness of but one day.

Shirley Ann Edwards

Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944

Miss Shirley Ann Edwards, 15-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Edwards, of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], died Thursday of chronic nephritis, from which she had suffered for five months.

Sidney Enterprise, October 12, 1944

The funeral of Miss Shirley An Edwards, 15-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Edwards of Unadilla was held Sunday afternoon.  A prayer service for the family at the home at 2, was followed by the service at the Methodist church at 2:30, which was largely attended.  Burial was in Evergreen Hill cemetery at Unadilla.  Rev. Clayton Hoag, pastor of the Methodist church conducted the service. The bearers were Roger Eldridge, Gordon Webster, Donald Cooper, Mark Batten, Elbert Hotchkin and Robert Gill, classmates of Miss Edwards.  Miss Edwards died last Thursday from chronic nephritis from which she had suffered for five months.  She was born in Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY] Oct. 21, 1929, going to Unadilla with her parents five years ago.  She attended the Unadilla school.  Surviving besides her parents are:  her maternal grandmother, Mrs. Janet Dickinson of Akron, O., her maternal grandparents, Mr.and Mrs. Newton Burton of Unadilla and several uncles and aunts.

George Henry Parks

Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944

The death of George Henry Parks occurred at the home of Raymond O. Sprague in McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], Friday Oct. 6.  Mr. Parks was born May 28, 1882, at Rock Rift, Delaware County, the son of Albert M. and Sarah Davis Parks.  He is survived by a brother, Norman Parks, of Walton, also several nieces and nephews.

Mrs. John Seaman

Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944

Mrs. John Seaman died suddenly at her home in Sidney [Delaware Co., NY] Friday morning of heart ailment.  She had been seriously ill only a couple of days. When taken ill she was about her usual household duties, when she complainedbster of feeling ill and started to fall, her husband catching her before she reached the floor.  She responded to medical treatment only to pass away suddenly as stated

Sidney Enterprise, October 12, 1944

Mrs. John Seaman died suddenly at her home on Grand street last Friday morning at 8 o'clock of heart ailment.  She had been seriously ill only a couple of days.  When taken ill she was about her usual household duties, when she complained of feeling ill and started to fall, her husband catching her before she reached the floor.  She responded to medical treatment only to pass away suddenly as stated.  Mrs. Seaman was born in Colliers May 30, 1858, a daughter of Charles and Catherine (Hillsinger) Burnside.  She was first married to Orrin Greene who passed away a number of years ago.  To them was born one daughter, who also passed away several years ago.  In 1933 she married John Seaman who survives, also one grandson, Richard Stevens in the military service.  Mrs. Seaman was esteemed by all who knew her. The funeral services was held at the Carr & Landers funeral parlors Sunday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock, Rev. Wilton J. Dubrick, her pastor, officiating. The burial was in the Afton cemetery [Chenango Co., NY].

 

Mrs. Charles Parsons of Sidney Plains - 1879

Emeline Miller Parsons

Bainbridge Republican, April 17, 1879

 

Among the aged residents of our community [Sidney Plains, Delaware Co., NY] we would mention the name of Mrs. Charles Parsons, daughter of William and Esther Miller, who was born at Blastonburg, Connecticut June 22nd, 1799.  Her father was a farmer, and a man of property, and who gave his children good advantages.  She was married in April 1825, and commenced housekeeping at Endfield near Hartford, Conn.  Her husband was a mechanic (blacksmith) and a soldier in the war of 1812.  After their marriage they resided at Endfield until the year of 1839, when they moved to Yaleville, Chenango Co., N.Y., where her husband worked at his trade until about 1852, when he purchased a farm in East Bainbridge, near the junction of the Unadilla river.  Here he carried on blacksmithing and farming for nearly 13 years, when he sold out and moved to Sidney Plains, where he died May 20, 1865.  They had 8 children, 5 of whom are now living.  Mrs. Parsons, since the death of her husband, has lived with her children, 3 of whom were married and lived in the place.  She now makes it her home with her son James, who is also a blacksmith by trade and is now carrying on that business.  Mrs. Parsons belonged to a family of eight children, only three of whom are now living.  Her brother Mathew Miller moved to East Guilford in the year of 1821, and purchased the John Mersereau farm, and still resides upon it.  Her sister Fannie, widow of the late Rev. Octavus Fitch, is living with a niece in Sidney Plains.  Their father died in Connecticut in the year 1814.  Their mother died at East Guilford in 1847.  Mrs. Parsons has long been connected with the Congregational Church, and is regarded as a devoted Christian, and as one who strives to do right.  She, at the present time, is in feeble health, but hopes when spring time has fully come, and flowers bloom, that she too, will feel the invigorating influence of a genial atmosphere, and will again be able to take her accustomed seat in the sanctuary, where she enjoys the society and friendship of her Christian friends and neighbors.

Obituary

Sidney Record, December 4, 1890

Mrs. Emeline Miller Parsons, aged 91 years and 6 months, was laid at rest in Prospect Hill cemetery [Sidney, Delaware Co., NY] last Sunday.  The services were held in the Congregational church, conducted by the pastor, Rev. A.S.Wood.  Many relatives from abroad attended the funeral.  Mrs. Parsons died at the residence of Mr. John Henry, in Unadilla Centre.  She was a resident of Sidney many years and was universally esteemed as an exemplary Christian lady.

Marriages (May 5)

Johnson - Willard

Utica Saturday Globe, November 3, 1906

 

 

Frederick Leslie and Nellie (Willard) Johnson

 

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The First Baptist Church was the scene of a brilliant society event on Tuesday evening, at which time occurred the wedding of Frederick Leslie Johnson and Miss Nellie Willard.  The auditorium was lavishly decorated with evergreens and pine.  Graceful arches entwined with running pine and surmounted by white doves spanned the two main aisles.  The pulpit was banked with evergreens and the ceremony was celebrated while the bridal couple stood beneath a canopy of green sheltering white doves.  The effect of the beautiful decorations was enhanced by the brilliant lighting of the room.  While the guests were assembling, Keith L. Brooks rendered two organ soloes:  The Bridal March and Angel's serenade, and Miss Florence Rindge, sage Beloved, It is Morn.

 

At 8:30 the strains of  Mendelssohn's wedding march played by Mrs. A.C. Latham on the organ announced the entrance of the bridal party.  The bride was preceded by the four ushers, Arthur Graves, Mason Aldrich, Charles Barnes and Addison Benedict.  Master Stanley Burdick, a cousin of the bride acted as flower boy and the ring bearer was little Miss Johnson, a niece of the groom.  As the bride and her attendant approached the altar by one aisle her groom accompanied. by his brother, Rev. Frank Johnson, of Syracuse, and by Rev. John L. Ray passed along the opposite aisle and met the bridal cortege in front of the alter.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. Mr. Johnson, assisted by Dr. Ray. The bride was handsomely gowned in Brusseis net over white taffeta and wore a veil caught with roses.  She carried a shower bouquet of roses. 

 

About 150 guests witnessed the ceremony and were present at the reception afterwards in the church parlors which were appropriately adorned in green and white.  An elaborate supper was served by Cateress Hickey.  The wedding presents were unusually numerous and beautiful.  The bride is highly respected by a large circle of friends.  Since her graduation from the Albany Normal College she has taught at Locust Valley and other points on Long Island.  For several years Mr. Johnson has been connected with the Star clothing house and is a popular and promising young business man.  He is  member of the First Baptist Church and a teacher in the Sunday school.  Their friends were fully prepared to give them a hearty send off but by a successful ruse the young couple gave them the slip and started on their wedding trip unmolested.  After a 16 days' absence they will make their home at 47 Birdsall street [Norwich, NY].

 

Whiting - Bunnell

1891

A very pleasant wedding ceremony took place at the family summer home at Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Wednesday evening, when Mr. Hiram Whiting and Miss Maud Bunnell were united for life.  There was a large attendance, the reception was fine, and music by the St. Laurence orchestra and dancing helped to make the occasion a pleasant and memorable one.

 

Barrett - Lewis

Chenango Union, April 28, 1892

Last evening, at the Congregational Church, Miss Alida B. Lewis and J. Wendell Barrett were united in matrimony.  The bride is one of the best known and most highly esteemed of Sacramento's young ladies, and the groom, having lived nearly all his life in Sacramento, has a host of warm friends here, who congratulate him on his good fortune.  The church was filled to its fullest capacity by the friends of the contracting parties. The pulpit and platform were beautifully decorated with flowers and ferns, a very attractive feature of  the decorations being the artistic arrangement of palms that formed a background to the whole.  Promptly at 8 o'clock the wedding march (Tannhauser) was commenced and the bridal party entered, led by Harry H. Eaton and W.H. Delvin, chief ushers, followed by E.D. Olney and H.E. Martin, ushers.  After these came the three bridesmaids, Misses Georgia Spaulding, of Arno, Alice Nixon,, of Sacramento, and Lula Vance, of San Francisco. Then followed M.K. Barrett, the groomsman, with Effie Waite, maid of honor.  The bride was followed by her mother, Mrs. Kate B. Lewis, accompanied by the groom, John W. Barrett.  The bride looked beautiful in her wedding gown of Faille Francais, with pearl trimming.  She wore the customary bridal veil and wreath of orange blossoms, and carried a bouquet of bridal roses.  The wedding party was received in front of the pulpit by Rev. J.B. Silcox, pastor of the church, who performed the Episcopal marriage service in an impressive manner. A reception was given to the happy couple at the residence of Mrs. Lewis, at 726 O street, to which only relatives and immediate friends were invited.  The bride received many beautiful and appropriate presents.  Mr. and Mrs. Barrett left on the 10:50 Portland express for a short wedding trip, and on their return will be at home to their friends on Tuesday at their future home at 115 C street--Sacramento Daily Record Union, April 20th.

 

The bride is a daughter of the late Romeo W. Lewis, a native of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], who served an apprenticeship in the Chenango Union office, forty years ago, and was well known in Norwich.  The bride's mother is a daughter of Charles R. Breed, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], and is remembered as a former popular society lady here.  Harry H. Eaton, one of the chief ushers, was also formerly of Norwich.

 

Marriage Notices

Antimasonic Telegraph, July 29, 1829

In Columbus [Chenango Co., NY] on Sunday, the 12th instant, Mr. Charles Greenleaf, to Miss Mary Ann Thorington, both of that town.

 

Antimasonic Telegraph, September 30, 1829

In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on Monday the 28th inst. by the Rev. L.S. Rexford, Doct. P.H. Hard, of Oswego (formerly of this village) to Miss Eliza M. Randall, daughter of col. John Randall.

Obituaries (May 5)

Mary Hill

Utica Saturday Globe, November 10, 1906

 

Mrs. Mary Hill

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At the home of her son, John Hill, on the road to King's Settlement, recently occurred the death of Mrs. Mary Hill, aged 80 years.  For the last nine years Mrs. Hill had been an invalid, as the result of a broken hip, and during that time she had been a constant sufferer.  She was able to get about the house to some extent with the aid of two canes, until about a week before her death, when she fell backward, breaking the other hip and one shoulder.  Her advanced age made it impossible for her to rally from the shock of these injuries and she passed to rest Tuesday, October 3.  Deceased was born in Ireland and had resided in this country about 40 years. For 15 years she was in charge of the cooking department of the county house in Preston.  She is survived by two sons, John and William, the former of whom she had made her home with during recent years, and two daughters, Mary  Hill,  who resided with her mother, and Mrs. William Hamilton, of New Berlin.

 

Sarah A. (Bunnell) Bowen

1840 - 1890

BOWEN:  Sarah A. Bunnell, wife of James Bowen of Oxford, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], died in N.Y. city Feb. 10, 1890.  She was born Sept. 16, 1840.  For 20 years she was an invalid, and during the last ten years of her life her suffering was great.  Under the advice of her physician and with her own consent she was taken to the hospital on the 30th of Jan. hoping that a surgical operation would afford relief and prolong her life.  In this emergency her faith in God was touching and beautiful.  Before leaving home she made all arrangements for life or for death.  For nearly 30 years she had walked with God and knew whom she had believed.  Living or dying she was the Lord's and in her life of suffering patience had accomplished its perfect work.  The writer visited her the afternoon before her departure from Oxford and the brief interview will never be forgotten.  Perfectly resigned it can be truthfully said that she was "in a strait betwixt two."  Prolonged suffering had created "a desire to depart and to be with Christ, which is far better," nevertheless, for the sake of the loved ones she would gladly continue to "abide in the flesh" if that should be the Lord's will concerning her.  The exceeding great and precious promises were upon her lips and her heart was full of praise.  Being asked for any passage of scripture which had been the source of special comfort to her she repeated Romans 8, 18, For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. Reference was also made to the 23d Psalm.  Arrived at the hospital, her serenity was undisturbed.  Her Bible was her cherished companion.  Other reading matter was offered by kind friends, for which she thanked them but said that the word of God was all that she cared to read as her strength permitted.  On the morning of Feb. 8th she was informed at that the operation would be performed at two o'clock.  She replied that she had come for that purpose and should be ready at the appointed time, and then proceeded to write to her brother.  The physicians and others who were with her state that they had never witnessed such perfect composure under similar circumstances.  The operation was apparently successful, but peritonitis set in and at 5 a.m. Feb. 10th she passed from "the sufferings of this present time" to "the glory which shall be revealed."  Her remains were brought to the home of her mother, Mrs. Abigail Bunnell, Guilford, N.Y., where the funeral services were conducted Feb. 18th, Rev. W. Frisby officiating.  Mrs. Bowen was for many years an honored member of the Methodist Episcopal church.  She is at rest, and still as wife, daughter, sister, friend, she speaks to us, for her works do follow her. [Note:  buried in Gospel Hill Cemetery, Guilford, Chenango co., NY]

Amanda Wildey

June 18, 1815 - June 14, 1891

On Sunday morning Mrs. Alexander Wildey died at her residence on Front street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], after a long illness with heart trouble, at the age of seventy-six years.  The funeral services, conducted by Rev. T.F. Hall, were held at the house on Tuesday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock, and at the M.E. church at 2:00.  Interment at Bennettsville.  Mrs. Wildey has been a prominent member of the M.E. church for many years.

Betsey (Pearsall) Bill
1818 - 1891

On Tuesday morning, June 16th after a sickness of many months, Mrs. Betsey Bill, wife of Warren Bill, died at her home on Kirby street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], aged seventy-three years.  Mrs. Bill was the daughter of Smith Pearsall, was born in, and has been a life long resident of Bainbridge.  The funeral was held at the residence at 2 o'clock Thursday afternoon, and the interment was made at the family plot in Green Lawn cemetery [Bainbridge, NY].  She leaves an aged husband and one daughter, Mrs. Wm. B. Main, of Abingdon, Ill., to mourn the loss of a true wife and a kind mother.

Eunice Lucretia Smith

1822  - 1895

Died, March 21, 1895, Eunice L. Smith, wife of Dea. J. Wheeler Smith, aged 72 years, 6 months.  She united with the church at fifteen and until her death was an ornament in society, a treasure in her loving family, and a mother in Israel.  She was married at nineteen and for fifty-three years has walked before her family a model mother.  Twelve years ago she received a paralytic shock which incapacitated her for labor and in all those years not a murmur has escaped her lips.  Having buried three children she quietly folded her hands in death, leaving a husband and six children to mourn her irreparable loss.  Thus:

"One by one earth's ties are broken;

Step by step age come apace;

One by one farewells are spoken;

And the one last fond embrace."

 

Her funeral was conducted by her pastor, Rev. F.E. Benjamin, Text, Proverbs 31:28  [Compiler note:  Buried in West Bainbridge Cemetery, Chenango Co., NY]

Paulina Cooper

Dec. 15, 1824 - Sept. 15, 1893

On Friday morning, September 15th, 1893, after a long sickness, Mrs. Paulina Cooper, wife of Curtis Cooper, departed this life at the home of her daughter, Mrs. O.A. Sands, at Windsor, N.Y., at the age of 69 years.  The remains were brought to the home of Mr. Cooper in this village, and on Sunday at 2 o'clock, at the house, the funeral services were conducted by Rev. A.W. Ashley, assisted by Rev. R.H. Stearns. The burial was in the Cooper family's private yard at Yaleville, N.Y. [Guilford, Chenango Co., NY].  The high esteem in which Mrs. Cooper was held by the community was demonstrated by the large attendance at the funeral to pay their last respects to one who had lived so long among them.

Harriet (Ireland) Sweet

1859 - 1893

Mrs. Harriet Sweet, wife of Charles Sweet, died of typhoid fever at her home in this town Monday, Oct. 23, 1893, at the age of 33 years.  The funeral was held at her late home on Wednesday, Oct. 25th.  The burial was in the West Bainbridge cemetery [Chenango Co., NY], Rev. Hall conducted the funeral services.  Mrs. Sweet was a daughter of Alexander Ireland and she leaves five young children who will often miss the guiding hand of a kind and affectionate mother.