Obituaries (September 12)

Nancy J. (Hunt) Aldrich

Utica Saturday Globe, March 1904

 

Nancy J. (Hunt) Aldrich

 

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. Reuben S. Aldrich died at her home, three miles west of the village, Monday morning last, aged 71 years.  Her health had been poor for a number of years but she had been able to be about the house, until attacked by pneumonia a few days before her death.  Nancy J Aldrich was the daughter of Venner and Nancy Burlingame Hunt and was born in Willet, Cortland county, January 12, 1833.  Her mother's death occurred only a few days later and the infant daughter was taken in charge by relatives in Holmesville, with whom her girlhood and early life were spent.  April 10, 1860, occurred her marriage to Reuben S. Aldrich and since that time she had resided at the Aldrich homestead west of the village.  She was a good wife, an affectionate mother and a kind and helpful neighbor, and was loved by all who knew her.  For many years she had been a consistent member of the First Baptist church of this village. She is survived by her husband, two sons, Venner Aldrich, of Cedarville, and Cory A. Aldrich, of Norwich, and one daughter, Mrs. R.B. Evans, who with her husband and family reside on the homestead farm.  One sister, Mrs. J.R. Green, of Norwich, also survives and 11 grandchildren.  Two sons recently died--Philo R. Aldrich, of Norwich and Hiram H. Tucker, of Sherburne.  Funeral services were held from her late home Wednesday afternoon, Rev. John L. Ray officiating.  Interment was made in the Foster Cemetery. 

 

Caroline A. Twist

Northern Christian Advocate, August 1850

Caroline A. Twist, daughter of David Twist, died in Otselic, Chenango county, N.Y., on the 20th of July, aged 23 years.  She was brought to a saving knowledge of the troth in Christ when but 14 years of age, and immediately made a public profession of her faith, by uniting with the Methodist Episcopal Church.  She was a faithful, consistent Christian.  She died in great peace, and after a very painful and protracted illness, which she bore with Christian patience.  May her aged parents, two sisters, and a brother, who are left behind, meet her in the skies.  E.P. Bescher, East Hamilton, Aug. 27, 1850

 

Andrew W. Warren

Chenango Union, July 24, 1873

WARREN:  In Waterville, N.Y., July 14th, at the residence of his father-in-law, Marius Hubbard, of consumption, Mr. Andrew W. Warren, aged 39 years.

 

Mr. Warren was the son of Hon. Romeo Warren, of Coventry, in this county [Chenango Co.], and will be remembered by many of our citizens as a former student of Norwich Academy, and later as a pupil of  Hon. T.H. Matteson, the distinguished artist of Sherburne.  His qualities of both mind and heart were of a high and noble order.  He was endowed with accurate perception, and possessed of great vigor and originality of thought.  In his intercourse with those he loved he was the most genial of men.  Possessing a vast fund of information and a brilliant and cultured intellect, he was always a welcome guest at the fireside of the refined and cultivated.  In all his relations as a man and a citizen, he was fearless, frank, and upright; cheerfully approving whatever accorded with his convictions, and surely rebuking that which conflicted with his perceptions of truth and right.  he was  a positive man. There was no dissemblance in his nature.  he had talent, genius, culture, a remarkable power of application, and his future seemed full of promise.  He was passionately devoted to his profession, and many of the creations of his genius would find an appropriate place beside those of the great painters of the day.  Some years ago, while residing in South America, he contracted a fever peculiar to that region, which impaired an originally vigorous constitution, and laid the foundation for the malady that resulted in his untimely death.  During "the last year of the war" he was employed by the proprietors of Harper's Weekly as one of their corps of artists, and accompanied the Army of the Potomac on its march "On to Richmond."  In 1868 he received the appointment of Assistant Professor of Drawing in the Naval Academy at Annapolis.  He held the position till the spring of 1872, when by reason of failing health he felt constrained to resign the place.  Hoping that a sea voyage and a brief residence under the sunny skies of Southern Europe would reinvigorate his wasting energies, he sailed from New York soon after his resignation was accepted.  The hope of regaining health was not realized. A few weeks since he started upon the return voyage. he reached home on Thursday the 10th inst. to die among his friends and kindred on the following Monday.  Today his hand is cold and still; but the works it wrought endure to gladden our eyes and hearts and keep alive the memories that lie along the path his feet have trod.

 

Memoriam

Chenango Union, August 14, 1873

A few weeks since we chronicled the death at Waterville, N.Y., of Mr. A.W. Warren, and also printed a brief obituary notice of the deceased.  Mr. Warren, though known to but few of our readers, was one of the most distinguished artists Chenango County has ever produced. Although working under many difficulties, he achieved an enviable reputation, especially among his fellow artists.  At the time of his death he was a member of the Artists' Fund Society of New York City.  The object of this Society is to provide aid for the families of deceased artists.  The fund for the purpose is raised by the annual voluntary contribution from each member, of a picture of the value of at least seventy five dollars.  When the death of Mr. Warren was announced, the members of the Board of Control of the Artists' fund Society, who were yet in the city, held a meeting on Wednesday evening, July 23, 1873, at the residence of Mr. D. Huntington, and passed the following Resolution:

 

Resolved:  The Artists' Fund society having heard of the death of their late fellow member, A.W. Warren, would express their deep sorrow for the loss of a highly valued friend and true artist. Having been a member from the beginning, he was always faithful to its interests, and a constant contributor of works of genuine merit. The members have lost an esteemed friend, and the circle of arts an accomplished painter.  We would offer our heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family.  Present, Messrs. R.W. Hubbard, I.M. Falconer, W. Whitteridge, D. Huntington, A. Laurie.

Harmony Chapter

Royal Arch Masons Initiate New and Banquet Old Members

Utica Saturday Globe

 

 

Leander Augustus Knott

 

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At the regular convocation of Harmony chapter, No 151, R.A.M., on Wednesday evening last, five candidates were invested with the mysteries of the Royal Arch degree, the work being conducted by the veteran high priest of Oxford Chapter, L.A. Knott.  Mr.  Knott has been at the head of Masonry in Oxford for many years, having held the office of high priest in the chapter for the past 20 years.  He is distinguished for his oratorical abilities in connection with his work, and those who attended the ceremonies on Wednesday evening were highly entertained.

 

Following the degree work, a banquet was served in the banquet hall adjoining, in honor of William C. Main, the oldest living member of Harmony Chapter, no. 151, R.A.M., and the other old members and new ones who have been made members during the past year.  Edward S Moon presided at the banquet table as toastmaster, and the merits of Chapter Masonry were fully and felicitously discussed. There was a large assemblage of members of Harmony Chapter, augmented by many visitors from other chapters.

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Death Notice

L. Augustus Knott

Chenango Union, February 14, 1918

L. Augustus Knott died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. C.C. McNitt, at 272 North Broad street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] last Thursday, aged 77 years.

 

Obituary

Rose Weeden Knott

Utica Daily Press, October 25, 1906

Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]:  The funeral of Mrs. L. Augustus Knott, who died Saturday will be held tomorrow from her late residence on Washington avenue, and will be conducted by Rev. Charles DuBroughton, rector of St. Paul's Church, of which deceased was a member.  Mrs. Knott's death is sincerely mourned in this community.  She had not been in the best of health for years, and formerly was very active in church and social work, notably at the social functions of the firemen and Masonic fraternity.  Mrs. Knott was born in New York on July 12, 1845.  Her maiden name was Rose Weeden.  Her parents died early, and she made her home with an uncle and came to Norwich to reside.  She was married to Mr. Knott in 1865, and had since resided in Oxford.  Besides her husband she is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Charles C. McNitt of Norwich.  Owing to the death of Mrs. L.A. Knott, her husband being village clerk, the adjourned meeting of the board of trustees Saturday night was further adjourned till Thursday evening. 

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Obituary

William C. Main
Chenango Union, February 15, 1918

 

 

William C. Main

1832 - 1918

William C. Main, one of the older residents and oldest active business man in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], died at his home on South Broad street, Tuesday February 12, 1918, aged 86 years.  Funeral services will be held from his home on Friday afternoon at 3:00 o'clock.  The committal service will be in charge of Norwich, Lodge, No. 302, F.&A.M.  William C. Main was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Main and was born in the town of Norwich, on what is now known as the McNitt farm southeast of this city, on July 14, 1832.  He was educated at the district school in his neighborhood and the union school near Mt. Upton and after leaving school he learned the harness maker's trade with Chester W. Carpenter, of Unadilla.  In 1850 he engaged in business for himself at Deposit, removing to Norwich two years later, where he was employed for two years and in 1854 started a business in Norwich which he carried on until his death, having been continuously engaged in business here for nearly sixty-four years.  On June 12, 1854, he married Martha E. Demander, of Deposit.  Their married life together extended over a period of more than sixty-two years and until the death of Mrs. Main in December, 1916.  Mr. Main was the oldest member of Norwich Lodge, no. 302, in which he was raised on October 7, 1855 and of  Harmony Chapter No. 161, R.A.M. in which he was exalted in 1869, and of which he was a Past High Priest.  He was also one of the oldest members of Norwich Commandery, No. 46, K.T.  He was a member of Emmanuel church and for about forty-eight years had served it as vestryman, his term of service beginning before the erection of the present church and when worship was conducted in a building which stood where the Schorn block now stands on East Main street.  He is survived by one daughter, Miss Ida Main of Norwich and also a brother, Chester Main of North Norwich.  For many years Mr. and Mrs. Main were active in the religious, fraternal, and social circles in Norwich. Their home was one of the pleasant centers of social life, particularly for meetings of a literary nature and a cordial hospitality was always to be found there.

 

Marriages (September 11)

Shelton - Bromley

1893

In Guilford, September 12, 1893, by the Rev. M.S. Godshall, assisted by Rev. H.H. Wilber, of Lestershire, a former pastor, Will P. Shelton and Miss Flora S. Bromley, both of Guilford, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], were united in marriage.  The marriage took place at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs Elnathan Bromley, and was witnessed by a large number of invited friends.  The groomsman was Pascal Nash, jeweler at Guilford, an intimate friend of the groom, and Miss Susie Root, of Guilford, an intimate friend of the bride, acted as bridesmaid.  Mr. and Mrs. E.H. Burlison acted as ushers. The happy couple expect to make an extended tour through the west including a visit to the World's Fair. The groom is the only son of an honored citizen of Guilford, and the bride the daughter of one of our most respected townsmen, and a loved and valuable member of the Methodist episcopal church. Both bride and groom are persons of high ideals and good habits, and then many friends wish them a happy and prosperous future.  The day was a perfect one, and a goodly number of friends were present to enjoy a delightful evening. The house was beautifully and tastily decorated, especially the room in which the ceremony took place, forming a canopy of evergreen and flowers over the head of the bridal pair.  Mrs. H.W. Cable, an excellent musician, presided at the piano.  A. Ferris, of Guilford, very acceptably acted as caterer. Soon after the couple were pronounced husband and wife, a telegram was received bringing congratulations and best wishes from Miss Ruth Crandall, of Buffalo, N.Y., an intimate friend of the bride.  During the evening the following beautiful and timely poem from Miss Fannie Crosby, a loved friend of the bride, was received;

 

To Mr. and Mrs. Shelton, on Their Bridal Eve

You have linked your hearts together,

Through the joys and cares of life.

And the pastor with his blessing

 Has pronounced you man and wife.

 

You have linked your hearts together,

At the altar's holy shrine.

May your sky be clear and peaceful,

And your love star n'er decline.

 

If you live for one another,

Trusting each for god or ill,

Though the clouds may sometimes gather,

Love will make you happy still.

Obituaries (September 11)

Eunice Adelaide Newton

Utica Saturday Globe, January 1904

 

Eunice Adelaide Newton

1884 - 1903

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At the home of her uncle, Rev. Alexander Beers, in Seattle, Wash., Wednesday, January 6, occurred the death of Eunice Adelaide Newton, the second daughter of Adolphus and Florence Tucker Newton of this village. She had been critically ill for about three weeks with typhoid fever.  On Christmas day the crisis was believed to be past, and her friends dared to  hope; but she failed to rally and sank until the end came. Everything was done for her that love or skill could suggest. Deceased was born September 6, 1884, in the town of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], removing to Norwich in early childhood. She had been for several years a member of the Free Methodist Church of Norwich.  She was a graduate of N.H.S. Class of 1902, and was a member of the Glee Club.  In August, 1902, soon after her graduation Miss Newton, together with her cousin Earl B. Newton, accompanied her aunt, Mrs. Adelaide L. Beers, to Seattle, Wash., for a year's stay.  This was in fulfillment of a long-cherished desire to visit the Pacific coast, while at the same time completing her education.  She entered Wilsons Modern Business College in Seattle, September 1, 1903, and in those few months attained such standing in her studies as to place her name upon the honor roll instituted by the college.  She greatly enjoyed her school and all the new experiences of her western environment.  Her record may be summed up in one word--faithfulness.  In school, a faithful student; in her home, a faithful helper, especially proficient in housewifely skills, young as she was; a faithful member of the church of her choice.  Eunice Newton's 19 years of sweet and helpful girlhood are to her friends a very fragrant memory, a possession that will abide.  Besides her parents she is survived by three sisters, Clara M., Ethel F., and F. Consuelo, and a brother, Dana A. Newton, all living at home.  Funeral services will be held in Seattle and the remains will be brought to her home here for burial in Mt. Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY].

 

Hannah Wade Graham

Bainbridge Republican, November 26, 1880

On Wednesday night, Nov. 10th, says the Schenevus Monitor, Mrs. C.H. Graham attempted to blow out a kerosene lamp handing in their kitchen, when the lamp exploded, saturating her clothing with the oil, which took fire immediately, enveloping her in flames.  She ran from the kitchen through the dining room, up stairs through the hall 25 feet, to the bedroom, where Mr. Graham  had retired to bed, thus giving time for the fire to do its cruel work.  Mr. Graham wrapped his wife in blankets to smother the flames, and hastened to tear off her burning clothing, but with all the haste the fire had the mastery, and so badly burned Mrs. Graham, that the skin came off from her hands like gloves, and the soles of her feet were left on the carpet.  Mr. Graham was also badly burned about his face, hands, feet and limbs.  An alarm called in the neighbors, who found Mr. and Mrs. Graham lying on the floor in a fainting condition  The carpets, clothing and bed clothes were burning. The fire was extinguished and the parties cared for.  Mrs. Graham died on Thursday at about 10:30 a.m., and Mr. Graham is not likely to recover.  He is a respected lawyer of Schenevus, and his family were much esteemed.

 

Charles Henry Graham

The Otsego Farmer, Cooperstown, NY, February 22, 1895

The Hon. Charles H. Graham, United States Commissioner of the district, was born in Saratoga county in 1836, and comes of Scotch-Irish ancestry. His father, Caleb Graham, Jr., was born near Luzerne, Warren county; and his mother, Rosina (Chafa) Graham, was born in Jefferson county. The subject of this review laid the foundation of his education in the public schools, but subsequently attended the Fort Edward Institute. He taught school several terms and then began the study of law in the office of Judge Cherritree of Luzerne, concluding his reading with the Hon. Abraham Becker of South Worcester. In May, 1862, he was admitted to the bar and entered upon the practice of his profession at Northampton, this State... Mr. Graham was married first to Miss Hannah Wade of South Worcester, whose death resulted from burns received by the explosion of an oil lamp. Mrs. Graham left three daughters, Ida L., Carrie M. and M. Belle, the first of whom is the wife of Melvin E. Baldwin. Mr. Graham's second marriage was to Miss Rosabel Baldwin, a refined lady of Mohawk, N. Y. She is the sister of Mr. Graham's law partner. Mr. and Mrs. Graham are the parents of three children, Leda A., Iva N., and Charles B.

 

Richfield Springs Mercury, January 4, 1900

United States Commissioner Charles H. Graham of the law firm of Graham & Baldwin, Schenevus [Otsego Co., NY], died at his home in that village, after a three days' illness, at 10 o'clock Sunday morning.  He was one of the oldest members of the Otsego county bar and one of the most prominent and capable attorneys of this section.  His prominence was won by a successful professional career and manly qualities which inspired confidence in all who sought his counsel, rather than by political or official associations. the loss is not for his town alone but for the county to bear, and his death will be universally mourned.  Mr. Graham was born in Saratoga county 63 years ago and he was educated in the schools of that county and Ft. Edward Institute.

 

Anna Lally Jones

Chenango Union, January 29, 1885

JONES:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 23d, Anna Lally Jones, Wife of Albert Jones, formerly of Bainbridge, aged 28 years.

 

Cut off in the best and brightest days of her life, sinking to her final rest with intellect unclouded, but with soul resigned to the will of her Creator, we are permitted for our consolation to accept the sweet assurance that she has but exchanged the toils, pains and sorrows of the world below for the joys and glory of the Heaven above, promised unalterably to the faithful and to the pure in heart.

God's ways are not as our ways,

His thoughts are not as ours;

He wounds us sore with cruel thorns,

When we have stooped for flowers;

But oh! 'tis from the oft pierced heart

Those precious drops distill.

Then teach us still to smile, O Lord,

Though sharp the thorns may be,

Remembering that they bring us near

To thee, dear Lord, to thee.

 

Maranda Johnson Wagner

Chenango Union, January 18, 1885

WAGNER:  At her home in Waukesha, Wisconsin, April 26th, Maranda Johnson, wife of John Wagner, aged 59 years.

 

Mrs. Wagner was the daughter of Col. Smith Johnson, of Preston, this county [Chenango Co., NY], and her husband, John Wagner, was born in the town of Norwich, in 1818, and went with his father, to Waukesha, Wis., nearly forty years ago.  He soon after married Miss Johnson, who is well remembered here as a most estimable woman.  Her funeral took place at the family residence, April 30th, 1885, and was largely attended.



Charles L. Russell, 1844 - 1910, Medal of Honor Recipient

Charles L. Russell

Inmate of Soldiers Home at Oxford

Holds Medal for Heroism

Utica Saturday Globe, October 1904

 

 

Charles L. Russell

1844 - 1910

 

The Soldiers' Home at Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] contains at least one man who for a single act of bravery during the civil war was given a vote of thanks by the Congress of the United States, and by that same body was presented with a medal for his heroism.  the recipient of this recognition is Lieut. Charles L. Russell, who at the age of 60 reticently refers to his daring exploit of 40 years ago, when the incident occurred which brought him such distinction.  It was at the storming of the confederate works at Spotsylvania.  It was Gen. Hancock's intention to attack the enemy's works, which were in their lines, just at the break of day.  Mr. Russell was a corporal in Company H, Ninety-third New York Infantry.  There was considerable rivalry among the different regiments engaged in the charge as to which one should be the first to reach the line of earthworks.  Before the charging line reached the first line of entrenchment the Confederates fled.  The Union line was reformed in the abandoned trenches preparatory to an attack on the second line of earthworks, behind which the fleeing southerners had taken refuge and were strengthened by comrades, who held the third line farther back.  It was evident that behind the second line the confederates intended to make the stand of the day.

 

The charge on the trench was made and the Union line again halted in the ditch on the outer side, confronted by an eight-foot earth embankment behind which the enemy swarmed.  This position was held for a short time.  The remainder of the story is graphically told in the published history of the Ninety third New York Volunteer infantry.

 

The wind blew from their side towards us.  The flag of the Forty-third Virginia was directly opposite ours, partly covering it.  It was too much.  Corp. Charles L. Russell, of the color guard resolved to capture that flag or die.  He did it.  Stripped to his shirt, he jumped the works right into the rebel line, knocking men right and left, grabbed the colonel of the regiment, who was holding the colors, and pitched him headlong, flag and all, over into the ditch and the Union line.

 

The men were wild with enthusiasm on witnessing this daring deed, and from end to end of the line cheers echoed and re-echoed.  The charge began, and the entire division clambered over the works, capturing 600 prisoners.  For this act Russell received the thanks of Congress, and was presented with a medal in the presence of the whole division.  He also received a lieutenant's commission from the Governor of the State of New York and was declared the hero of Spotsylvania.  Another instance of his heroism occurred when the army was lying before Petersburg.  The commanding general wished to ascertain the position of the rebels and the distance from the Union lines, and chose Russell and a comrade named Oliver A. Platt to obtain the information.  The men were requested to remove their coats and carry no arms, but to take with them a few newspapers, so that in case of capture they could give as a pretext for their presence within the enemy's lines that they wished to exchange newspapers, which were scarce and hard to get at that time.

 

"After leaving their own camp the men entered the thick woods and coming forth found they had passed the rebel pickets without realizing it.  From the shelter of a large tree they could see the Confederate camp and gained the information they sought.  Instead of retreating in good order Russell proposed that they should advance near enough to exchange newspapers and thus be able to convince their commander that they had carried out his instructions to the letter. They advanced within plain view of the rebels who were scattered about in groups playing cards and reading.  They called to them and invited an exchange of papers, but a rebel officer picked up a gun and others followed his example.  He called to the two men to surrender, at the same time leveling his gun.  Thirty or forty more guns were pointed at them, but Russell and his companion by agreement ran only a step or two and fell on their faces to escape the first volley, then up and took to their heels in earnest.  Though the rebels followed them and the pickets closed in on them, they escaped unhurt and returned in safety to the camp.

 

Mr. Russell with his wife came to the W.R.C. Home at Oxford last November from the Soldiers Home at Marshalltown, Ia., in the hope that the change would be of benefit to Mrs. Russell, who was injured by a bolt of lightning.  The change is proving beneficial.  He was a member of the Grand Army post at Cedar Rapids while a resident there and was employed as janitor at the public library.  The accompanying illustrations picture Mr. Russell as he appears today and also at the time of his daring adventures.

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Medal of Honor

Awarded for actions during the Civil War

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Corporal Charles L. Russell, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on 12 May 1864, while serving with Company H 93d New York Infantry, in action at Spotsylvania, Virginia, for capture of flag of 42d Virginia infantry (confederate States of America)

Date of Issue:  December 1, 1864

Afton History: Daniel Hyde, Peter Betts, Cornelius Atherton

Afton History

Afton Enterprise, May 20, 1887

 

Daniel Hyde came in from Claverack, Columbia county, in 1801, and settled two and one half miles north of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], at what is known as Ayrshire or North Afton, on the farm now occupied by Edward Wilkinson, where he died.  His children were:  Edward, who married Lydia, daughter of Nathan Beatman, and settled in the same locality, but afterwards removed to Masonville, where he died; Daniel, who married a woman named Graham, and settled in Ashtabula county, Ohio, where he died; Chauncey G., who married Lucretia, daughter of Amasa Newton, and settled and died near the old homestead; Elijah, who, for his first wife, married Jemima, daughter of Amasa Newton, and for  his second wife, Harriet, daughter of a Mr. Chase, and also settled and died near the homestead; Sophia, who married a man named Martin, and removed with him to Paris, Canada, where she died; Polly, who married Leighton Joyce, and settled in Greene county, and died in Brooklyn; Cynthia, who married Dr. Archibald Welch and settled and died in New Haven, Conn.; and Olive, who married Wells Newton, and settled in Bainbridge and died there.  The grandchildren living in the county are:  A.C. Hyde, only surviving child of Chauncey G., a druggist in Afton; and Daniel A. Hyde, Rosina, Wife of James M. Olendorf, Wm. E. Hyde, Aruba L., wife of G.W. Knight, C.G. Hyde, and Harriet, wife of J.H. Carr, children of Elijah, also in Afton.

 

Judge Peter Betts moved to Afton in 1803 and settled at Bettsburg, to which place he gave his name.  He was a large land owner, and opened there in 1805 the first store in the town, which he kept till his removal to Bainbridge, about 1820-'25, where he also engaged in the mercantile business.  He represented this county in the Assembly in 1804-05, again in 1808, and again in 1811.  He was born in Norwalk, Conn., January 17, 1772 and died in Bainbridge June 19, 1849.  Eliza, his wife, died February 9, 1819, aged 40.  His children were:  Peter, Sally, who married a man named Kassam, Pamelia, who married Robert Harper, Eliza, who married a man named Rathbun, all of whom are dead.

 

Cornelius Atherton moved to Afton from Pennsylvania in 1803-'04.  He was born in Cambridge, Mass.., in 1736, and was the fourth in descent from the late Gen. Humphrey Atherton, of Boston, form whom all the Athertons in America are descended.  He married Mary Delano and with her removed to Amenia, Duthcess Co., N.Y., in 1763.  He was a blacksmith by trade, and having discovered the process of converting iron into American steel, in 1772 he entered into a contract with the Messrs. Reed, merchants of that place, to superintend the erection of steel works, to be constructed by them, and to instruct their workmen in the art.  The works were erected and were in successful operation during the war of the Revolution.  from Amenia he returned to Cambridge, where he superintended an armory belonging to John and Samuel Adams and John Hancock, which was burned by the British soldiers during the Revolutionary war.  Then in 1776 he removed to Plymouth, Luzerne Co. Pa., where he worked at his trade.  He was drafted at the time of the Wyoming massacre, but his place was filled by his eldest son, Jabez, who volunteered to become his substitute, and was accepted and mustered in.  The youthful patriot fell in the sanguinary engagement, and his name heads the list on the Wyoming monument.  Atherton's wife, by whom he had seven children, died soon after the Wyoming massacre.  He afterwards remarried and had seven children by his second wife.  After  his removal to Afton he continued to work at his trade till his death, December 4, 1809.  Humphrey, his oldest son by his second wife, was a miller.  He married a widow named Wicks, but had no children, and died in Afton, December 11, 1849, aged 62.  Charles, his second son was a blacksmith.  he married a lady named Bramhall, with whom, a few years later, he removed to Friendship, Allegany Co., where he worked at his trade several years, till the death of the wife, when he sold his property and went with a friend to Emporium Cameron Co., Pa., where he died May 13, 1869, aged 76.  He had no children.  Miram, the third son, married Miss Lovina Sisson of Plymouth, and followed his trade of wagon maker a few years in Afton and subsequently for several years in Norwich, from whence he removed to Greene, and engaged in the cabinet business, which he pursued till his death, March 18, 1870, aged 73.  They had five children. William the fourth son, was a shoemaker.  He married Miss Jane E. Hamlin, by whom he had two children, both dying in infancy. They finally removed to Paterson, N.J. where both died. Cornelius the youngest son, died in Afton in Oct. -?- aged 75 years.  he had one son who is now employed as telegraph operator in Indianapolis.  His widow is still living [in 1887] and resides in Afton.

Obituaries (September 10)

Chandler P. Hunt

Utica Saturday Globe, October 1903

 

Chandler P. Hunt

 

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Monday, occurred the death of Chandler P. Hunt, a highly respected resident of that place, aged 78 years.  He was born in the village and had resided there all his life.  Deceased was one of a family of 11 children, five sons and six daughters, of Charles and Lucy Preston Hunt, and of whom but one, Andrew J. Hunt, of this village, now survives.  He married Catherine Carpenter, of Oxford, who died some years ago.  Of this union two sons survive, Henry A. Hunt, an employee of the Borden's milk bottling works, of Oxford, and Charles W. Hunt, timekeeper in the O.&W. shops in this village.  The funeral was held from the home of his son in Oxford.  Wednesday afternoon.  Burial was made in the Oxford Cemetery.

 

Andrew Jackson Hunt

Binghamton Press, February 28, 1908

Norwich [Chenango Co. NY]:  Andrew Jackson Hunt, one of the oldest residents of Norwich and for more than 45 years a prominent business man in this community, died at the home on Henry street on Thursday morning, aged 74 years.  Andrew J. Hunt was a son of Charles and Lucy Hunt and was born in the town of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 29, 1834.  He was one of a family of 13 children.  In 1855 he engaged in the manufacture of harness, saddles and other leather goods at Oxford, continuing there about six years, and in 1861 removed to Norwich where for many years he carried on an extensive business.  In May, 1858, Mr. Hunt married Miss Mary Ransford of Norwich.  Three children were born to them; Miss Hattie Hunt of Norwich, Mrs. R.B. Baird of Brooklyn and Miss Mary J. Hunt.  The death of his wife and the long illness and death of his youngest daughter weighed on Mr. Hunt and his health has been failing for some time. He was a Democrat of the old school and for many years was prominent in the councils of his party.  He was a member of Norwich Lodge, No. 302, F.A.M.; of Harmony Chapter No. 151, R.A.M.; of Norwich Commandery, No. 46, K.T., and of Chenango Consistery No. 31, S.P.R.S. he was also a member of Canasawacta Lodge, No. 206, I.O.O.F.  Funeral services will be held from the home Sunday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock.  Rev. W.D. Benton, rector of Emmanuel Church will conduct the services at the house.

 

Julia Maria Steere

Chenango Union, July 21, 1902

Julia Maria Steere died at her home on West Main street, Friday afternoon, July 25, 1902.  In her death Norwich loses a representative of one of the pioneer families of Chenango valley.  The Steeres located here in the early days of our village and at one time owned large tracts of land.  The grandfather of the deceased donated Eastside part to the county of Chenango at about the time Colonel Guernsey gave the Westside park.  Julia Maria Steere was born in Norwich and lived here nearly, if not quite, all her life.  A sister, Miss Betsey Steere, lived for many years at the corner of East Main and Silver streets.  Many of our older citizens attended in their younger days the select school, which was taught for many years by Betsey Steere and the deceased.  Miss Steere was of a retiring nature, but a refined and old time gentle woman.  She had reached an age of upwards of 80 years.  Her surviving relatives are a niece residing in Scranton, and cousins residing in South New Berlin, Addison and Sidney. The funeral was on Monday.

 

Mary A. (Hunt) Smith

Chenango Union, July 21 1902

Mrs. Joseph L. Smith, sister of A.J. Hunt of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], died at her home, 234 Seymour street, Syracuse, Friday evening, July 25, 1902.  Funeral services were held Sunday at 4:00 p.m., at her late home, and interment was made in Mt. Hope cemetery, Norwich, upon arrival of the 10:00 O.& W train Monday forenoon.  Her age was 71 years.  Deceased was born in Oxford, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], and was one of a family of eleven children, of the late Charles A. and Lucy Hunt, all of whom are now deceased but two, Andrew J. Hunt of this village, and Chandler P. Hunt of  Oxford.  She was married to Joseph L Smith at Oxford, in 1849.  Mr. and Mrs. Smith resided in Norwich for about 23 years, moving from here to Buffalo about 30 years ago, and about seven years later to Syracuse were they made their home until his death in March, 1901.  During the past year Mrs. Smith has spent a considerable portion of the time in Norwich, where she had many friends.  An only son, Charles H. Smith, who died about six years ago, is buried in Mt. Hope cemetery.--Telegraph

Mahala Winsor Phetteplace

Chenango Union, July 21, 1902

At the residence of her son, Clark E. Phetteplace, East Norwich, July 25, 1902, Mrs. Mahala Winsor Phetteplace, widow of the late Easton Phetteplace, died, aged 84 years.  Funeral Monday afternoon at 12:30.  Burial at White Store [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].  Deceased was born in the town of Norwich on the Winsor homestead about one and one-half miles this side of Latham's Corners. She has resided here practically all her life.  Of a large family she was next to the oldest daughter of fourteen children. A rather remarkable circumstance in this connection is that there were six members of the family, including herself, that were over 70 years old and whose combined ages averaged 77 years.  deceased is survived by two sons, Clark E. and Edgar Phetteplace, and one daughter, Mrs. Herbert Hunt of this town, four brothers, Richard Winsor of Norwich, Joseph Winsor of Guilford, Edson and Zenas Winsor of Mt. Upton; two sisters, Mrs.. Almeda Shepard of Mt. Upton and Mrs. Nancy Gibbs of Princeton, Ill.--Sun

Nathan Randall

Chenango Union, June 19, 1872

We copy the following particulars of the death of Nathan Randall, Esq., from the Syracuse Courier of Wednesday last.:

"We announced a few days ago the death, on board a steamer between Panama and San Francisco, of Nathan Randall, Esq.  We are now enabled to give some particulars concerning this sad event, from which, it will be seen, Mr. Randall's death was the result of injuries sustained by a fall through the vessel's hold.  Mr. Randall was en route to San Jose, between which city and Guatemala, a distance of 65 miles, he was contemplating a railroad.  On the 10th of May he sailed from Panama, in company with his grandson Nathan, about fourteen years of age, on the Steamer Honduras, bound for San Jose. The steamer reached La Libertad, in Central America, stopped for coal and freight.  Meanwhile the Steamship Constitution, the regular through steamer for San Francisco came along, and Mr. Randall, for the sake of meeting some New York friends, as well as the excursion, thought he would take the Constitution as far as the port of Acajulta, and there await the coming of the Honduras.  Reaching Acajulta, he was ashore exploring that strange old Spanish town for two or three hours, when the Honduras came along, but did not enter the harbor.  Mr. Randall had expected that a small boat would be sent ashore for him, but a rough sea prevented.  Accordingly, he went aboard a "lighter," which carried him to the Honduras.  In endeavoring to reach the cabin with his grandson, it being nearly dark, he fell in the hatchway, a distance of thirteen feet, striking a lot of railroad iron in the lower hold, carried for ballast.  By the fall every rib in his body was broken, and his back was broken. There was also a severe contusion of the brain and chest.  Everything possible was done for him, but he died on the 18th of May, twenty-three hours after the fall. he was of course, not conscious for a moment, and the physicians said that it must have been an iron constitution to have resisted death so long.  Before death he was transferred to the Constitution and the body arrived at San Francisco on the 31st.  The remains were expected here last night.  The funeral will take place from St. Paul's church at 3 o'clock Thursday afternoon.  The grandson, a lad of about fourteen, who was so suddenly left alone thousands of miles form home, arrived here yesterday, having left San Francisco on the 4th.  Mr. Charles Randall, of New York, the only son of the deceased, has also arrived, and is at the Vanderbilt.  Mr. Randall's age was sixty-five.  He was in early life a printer and editor. At the Franklin dinner, in New York, Mr. Randall was the oldest printer present.  When James Gordon Bennett started the Herald, Mr. Randall was to go in with him, but was induced finally to decline.  It was while living at Cortland that he began his career as a stage proprietor, subsequently so extensive. From stages he drifted into railroads, and to him is due the credit of having effected the original consolidation of the New York Central railroad."

The deceased was a son of the late Dea. Charles Randall, of this village [Norwich, NY].  Nearly fifty years ago he was post boy of the Oxford Gazette, at that time published by Chauncey Morgan.  Between forty and fifty years since, he was publisher of the Chenango Patriot, at Greene, and was afterwards connected with the Ithaca Journal, and with other papers in this State.  He subsequently became largely identified with the railroad interests of this and other countries.

Death Notices

Antimasonic Telegraph, April 22, 1829
In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], yesterday afternoon after a long and painful illness, Mrs. Betsey Steere, consort of Mark Steere, aged 61 years.

Antimasonic Telegraph, July 15, 1829
In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult., Amos Randall Jr., aged 5 years.

Antimasonic Telegraphs, May 11, 1831
At Salina, on his way to Lockport, on the 20th ult. Noah Hubbard, brother of the Senior Editor of this paper, aged 49 years.  "Ye men of genius tread lightly upon his ashes, for he was your kinsman." --Norwich Journal

In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] on the 4th instant, Mrs. Mahitable Shattuck, wife of Mr. Leroy Shattuck, aged 34 years.

Antimasonic Telegraph, June 1, 1831
In Monroe, Michigan Territory, on the 9th ult. Mrs. Hannah K. wife of Mr. Lester P. Clark, formerly of this place [Norwich, NY]

Bainbridge High School - Class of 1953

Bainbridge Central High School - Class of 1953

Senior Portraits

"Echo" 1953

 

 

Joseph Junior Poltz

 

George Hulbert Pratt

 

Jane Marion Scheidegger

 

Lola Elaine Severson

Class Secretary

 

Robert John Smith

 

Donald Reeves Wall

Junior Prom King



Obituaries (September 9)

Walter R. Furman

Utica Saturday Globe, October 1903

 

Walter R. Furman

Walter R. Furman, for over 50 years a well-known resident of the town of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], died suddenly Saturday evening, aged 86 years.  Mr. Furman had been in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] visiting his daughter and Saturday morning returned to Sherburne on the 9:28 Lackawanna train.  He rode with a milk team to the residence of Willis T. Hull, about a mile beyond the Spring House, with whom he had made his home for the past 11 years.  He was apparently in his usual health and Mr. and Mrs. Hull attended attended an auction during the day leaving Mr. Furman at home alone.  Miss Van Wagner, the daughter of a neighbor told him that the cows were out of their lot and he started out supposedly to look after them.  That was the last seen of Mr. Furman alive.  Some time after, as he did not return to the house, a search was started and his dead body was found in the Baptist Church yard a short distance from where he lived.  Deceased had suffered for many years with rheumatism and Coroner Wilcox, who was called, decided that his death was due to the hardening of the arteries, caused by that disease, combined with old age.  Mr. Furman's early life was spent in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], where his father was a miller and he had followed that occupation all his life.  Removing to Sherburne over 50 years ago, he for a time conducted the Kirshaw grist mill and later established the Furman mill northeast of Sherburne village and conducted the business until a few years since when he sold out to Mr. Hull, who afterwards sold the mill to a Mr. Howard and the business has since been discontinued.  Mr. Furman was a man of good business ability, strictly honest in all his dealings and enjoyed the respect of all who knew him.  During the height of the gold fever in 1849-'51 he spent two years in California.  He was twice married, his first wife being Arzelia Kershaw, of Sherburne, who died in 1866, and in 1867 he married Hannah Vail of New Berlin, who has been dead about 15 years.  He is survived by two children, Mrs. Marvin A Smith, of Rexford street, this village, and Ambrose Furman, of Victoria, British Columbia; also by one brother, George Furman, who resides in the west.  His funeral was largely attended at his late home Tuesday forenoon.

Thaddeus Newton

Oxford Times, July 12, 1887

NEWTON:  At Afton [Chenango Co., NY], July 2, Thaddeus Newton, aged 90 years, formerly of Bainbridge.

Lorena Newton

NEWTON:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY, Jan. 4, Mrs. Newton, wife of the late Thaddeus Newton, aged 69 years.  [Oxford Times, Jan. 17, 1893]

 



Mrs. Newton, wife of the late Thaddeus Newton, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Smith Doolittle, last Wednesday, aged 69 years.  The funeral was held Friday, Rev. L.L. Rury officiating.  The remains were taken to Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] for interment, Funeral Director Emens having them in charge  [Afton Enterprise, Jan. 12, 1893]  [buried Riverview Cemetery, Oxford, NY]

Lydia Ann Wheeler Newton

1827 - 1896

J.J. Bixby received a dispatch Saturday morning, announcing the death of Mrs. Warren Newton, who has been visiting friends in New York City.  She has been an invalid for several years, but for the past few months has been in better health.  Thursday,  her daughter, Mrs. Bixby, was summoned to New York by the illness of her mother, and Saturday morning brought the news of her death from congestion of the lungs.  Mrs. Lydia Ann Wheeler Newton was born at North Stonington, Conn., in  1827, and was the daughter of Dudley R. Wheeler, of that place. After graduating from Mt. Holyoke Seminary she came to Norwich to visit her brother, the late Chauncey Wheeler, who was engaged in business here ,and while his guest, met her future husband, Warren Newton.  They were married at North Stonington in 1851 and immediately came to Norwich where they have always made their home, which remained unbroken until the death of Mr. Newton in December, 1891.  Mrs. Newton was very active in public affairs and was interested in every movement for the betterment of the village and its people.  She was a member of the Congregational church and a generous contributor to all its departments. She was one of the original members of the Ladies' village Improvement society and for years its President.  The Y.M.C.A. appealed particularly to her and that institution has always been the recipient of her generosity.  Mrs. Newton is survived by her only daughter, Mrs. J.J. Bixby and by a brother and sister in Connecticut. The body was brought to Norwich on Tuesday morning, and the funeral will be held form her late residence on Thursday afternoon t two o'clock.

Henry S. Doolittle

Bainbridge Republican, October 6, 1921

Henry S. Doolittle, 65 years old, residing on a farm bordering the state highway about two miles north of Afton [Chenango Co., NY] dropped dead in his home about 6 o'clock Sunday night.  The immediate cause of his death was excitement over the automobile accident in front of his home at 5:15 o'clock Sunday afternoon in which one man was killed and another injured, according to Coroner P.A. Hayes, of Afton who was summoned.  Doolittle had been suffering from valvular heart trouble.  The accident in which Bert Vrooman, of Otego, suffered fatal injuries resulting in his death shortly afterwards and a man identified as James Harrigan of Binghamton was injured happened not more than 100 feet from the Doolittle residence. It is believed that the man who has been confined to his home for three years saw the Dodge automobile leave the road on a turn in front of the house, crash through a railing at the side of the road and plunge over an embankment turning upside down on the railroad tracks.  Following the accident several excited persons entered the Doolittle residence to use the telephone in summoning aid for the injured men.  The unusual excitement is believed to have taxed Doolittle's weakened heart, causing his death shortly afterward.  His wife who is his only survivor wasn't in the house at the time.  Members of another family living in the house with the Doolittle were also in the house.  Doolittle was a farmer and had lived in the vicinity of Afton virtually his entire life.

 

Grace Newton

Sidney Enterprise, May 3, 1945

The largely attended funeral of Miss Grace Newton, who died in her sleep early Monday morning at her home, 22 Gilbert street [Sidney, Delaware Co., NY], was held at the Methodist church Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock.  The Rev. Roy T. Henwood fo West Pittston, Pa., a former pastor of the Sidney Methodist church, officiated assisted by the Rev. Wilton J. Dubrick, pastor of the local church.  Miss Grace Newton, daughter of George E. and Susan R. (Bixby) Newton, was born in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].  Her early years were spent in Bainbridge and in Sidney where she was employed in the Clark silk mill.  Moved to Binghamton in 1901 where she was associated with Mrs. H.H. Sanders in china painting and artists' supplies, later becoming a member of the firm in their State street store.  In 1913 she left Binghamton for Schenectady where she operated a studio of china and glass decoration.  Due to inability to secure proper china the studio was closed in 1918 and for some time she represented the Mary Cummings gowns, of Louisville, Ky. covering New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania.  In 1822, with Miss Marie Kenny, she opened the Grace-Marie Gown shop in the Press building in Binghamton.  Following a serious illness in 1824-25, she returned to her Sidney home to recuperate.  Later in 1925, with Miss Nita Hanes, she opened the Sidney hospital, corner of River and Patterson streets.  In 1928 she was in charge of  the Community house of the Ballston Lake Improvement society at Ballston lake.  She was called home late in 1929 to care for her father and an aging aunt.  Here she was active in the Methodist church and was a member of building committee of the new church built in 1933.  She was a member of the Official Board, president of the Ladies' Aid and an active member of the Harvester class until her last illness which began in 1943.  Miss Newton was highly esteemed in the community and had a wide circle of friends who extend sympathy to those bereaved.  She is survived by her sister, Miss Alma B. Newton, with whom she resided, of Sidney; two brothers, Alvin W. of Sidney, and Raymond A. of Schenectady; a niece, Dorothy C. Newton of Schenectady, and four nephews, Lt. James R. Newton, Army Air Force; Corp. Roger T. Newton, Ordinance Division of Ari Force, England; Aviation Cadet Raymond J. Newton, Bunker Hill, Ind., and Seaman 2/c Dudley A. Newton, Norman, Okla.  Burial was made in Greenlawn cemetery in Bainbridge.  [Note:  probable burial in St. Peter's Churchyard, Bainbridge, NY where her name is included on the Newton family monument] 

 

Frederick Quimby

Sidney Enterprise, May 3, 1945

Frederick E. Quimby died at his home in Baldwinsville [Onondaga Co., NY] April 18.  Funeral services were held April 21 at his home, Rev. W.H. Anderson, pastor of the Baptist church, officiating.  Interment was in Riverview cemetery at Baldwinsville.  Mr. Quimby was born in Sidney [Delaware Co., NY] Jan. 2, 1868, and for many years was a resident of Unadilla.  he is survived by his wife, Helen (Briggs) Quimby, and two daughters, Mrs. Lucy Belyeau and Mrs. Fay Long, both of Baldwinsville.

Fire, Methodist Church, Oxford, NY - 1892

Fire in Oxford's Methodist Church

Chenango Union,  February 4, 1892

About 7:30 Thursday evening the fire bell sounded an alarm, the streets rapidly filled with people, and soon it was given out that the Methodist Church [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY] was on fire.

 

It seems that the sexton, Thomas J. Stratton, had prepared the church for quarterly meeting services that evening, his last duty being to light the large chandelier which was suspended from the ceiling in the auditorium.  He had lighted the fourteen double-burning lamps in the chandelier and was raising it to its place, when it gave way at the coupling between the chandelier and the reflector, tipped up to one side and fortunately away from Mr. Stratton, and fell with a crash.  The oil from the lamps, several gallons, was instantly on fire, which Mr. Stratton, who was alone, made an attempt to smother, but was unsuccessful, and some ladies arriving at this time, the alarm was given.  By the time help arrived the smoke was so dense in the auditorium that a person could only gain entrance by getting down close to the floor and crawling in on hands and knees.  A few pails of water extinguished the flames, and as soon as the windows could be got open the smoke disappeared, but not before it had ruined the fresco work of ceiling and walls.  In the meantime the steamer had been stationed at the river bridge, a line of hose was laid by the church, and everything was ready for effective service.  The water was wisely kept out of the building, however, as it was apparent that the flames could be easily extinguished as above stated.  The smoke from the burning oil smothered the fire or kept it under.  Had there been any ventilation in the room the whole interior would soon have been a mass of flames. Two pews were burned beyond repair, two or three others  scorched, several cushions burned, and the carpet and floor underneath the chandelier also burned somewhat, but the greatest damage was caused by the smoke which left the fine frescoed ceiling and walls in a black and grimy state.  The chandelier, an expensive one, was or course ruined, the heat form the burning oil melting one side of the large reflector, which was still suspended above.  It was a close call for a serious loss to the society, and they are fortunate in carrying full insurance which will make the loss good. the day previous to the fire was the fiftieth anniversary of the dedication of the church.--Oxford Times.

Marriages (September 8)

Marriage Notices

Chenango Telegraph, December 7, 1859

BARNES - BIRDLEBOUGH:  In Norwich, Dec. 6th, 1859, by Rev. H. Doane, Charles E. Barnes, of Norwich, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Julia E. Birdlebough, of German [Chenango Co., NY].

REED - RANDALL:  In this village, on the morning of the 6th inst., by Rev. L. Wright, J.D. Reed to Miss Hattie A. Randall, both of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].

SMITH - FOSTER:  In Sherburne, Nov. 23, by Rev. A. McDougall, Marvin A. Smith to Miss Sarah Foster, all of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

CHURCH - RICHMOND:  In Oxford, Nov. 2, by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Edwin Church, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Margaret A. Richmond of Preston [Chenango Co., NY].

NEWTON - TOOMBS:  In Guilford, Oct. 26, by Elder M.L. Bennett, Benjamin Newton of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Nancy Toombs of West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]

FOOTE - MAIN:  At the Hamilton House, Chicago Nov. 18, by Rev. M r. Whipple, Geo. L. Foote, of Union Grove, Iowa (formerly of Oxford) to Miss Emily E. Main, daughter of Wm. Main of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

BRAND - RICHARDSON:  In Unadilla, Nov. 22, by Rev., R. Townsend, Alfred E. Brand, of Prattsville [Greene Co., NY], to Miss Francis Richardson, of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY].

Obituaries (September 8)

Daniel P. Skinner

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1903
 

 

Daniel P. Skinner

1832 - 1903

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  On Saturday of last week, at his home about three miles northeast of Norwich, occurred the death of Daniel P. Skinner, aged 70 years.  He was born December 15, 1832 upon the farm where he died, and was the son of John and Mary Stafford. Skinner, both of whom were born in Connecticut and moved to this town in the early years of the 19th century and settled upon the farm where their son, Daniel P. was born and which had always been his home throughout his life of three score years and ten.  Mr. Skinner was a successful farmer, an agreeable neighbor and a man well liked by a large circle of friends.  In 1853 he was united in marriage to Lydia I. Bacon, a daughter of Alonzo and Sally Cutting Bacon of Norwich.  Mrs. Skinner died August 11, 1902.  there survive a son, Miner D. Skinner, who lived with his father and a daughter, Mrs. L.O. Anderson, whose home is on the farm adjoining, and five grandchildren.  There are no brothers and sisters, he being the last of his father's family.  Funeral services were held from his late home on Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. S.I. Ford officiating.  Burial was made in the Quarter Cemetery [Norwich, NY].

Harriett Cornelia Newton

Elmira Star-Gazette, April 5, 1936

Miss Harriett C.  Newton, 306 West Third Street [Elmira, NY], died Friday, April 3, 1936, after an extended illness.  She is survived by a niece, Mrs. Cromwell McIntosh of Kenmore; a nephew, Whitman Newton, New York City; a sister-in-law, Mrs. Fred Newton of Kenmore.  Miss Newton was a member of Trinity Church and the Girls' Friendly Society of that parish.  [Note:  Buried St. Peter's Churchyard, Bainbridge, NY]

Bert E. Newton

Norwich Sun, November 1, 1928

Mrs. Ralph Wilson has received the sad news of the death of her uncle, Bert E. Newton of Los Angeles, Cal., who died on October 11 at the age of 68 years from paralysis.  Mr. Newton was the only brother of Mrs. J.P. Anderson, formerly of Guilford now living in Burlington, Wash.  He is survived by a wife, one son and one daughter and two stepdaughters, Mr. Newton was the son of Philo Newton and was known by many around Afton where he spent his boyhood days.

Elmira (Snyder) Reynolds

Norwich Sun, November 1, 1928

Elmira, wife of Hiram Reynolds passed away Tuesday, October 23 at her home where she had lived for the past fifty-three years.  Mrs. Reynolds was the daughter of John and Mary (Smith) Snyder having been born in Howes Cave, Schoharie county, September 24, 1849.  The funeral service was held on the following Saturday with burial in White Store cemetery.

Mark Boyes

Chenango Union, July 13, 1893

On the hills of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], within a radius of less than a mile, six boys passed their childhood, youth and a large portion of their manhood, all born in the year of 1820.  Their names were Mark Boyes, Joseph Winsor, Epenetus Winsor, Warren Mosher, John Hurlburt and Sylvanus Shumway.  John Hurlburt died in Oxford about thirty years ago.  The remaining five passed the life limit of three score and ten over three years ago, when on the 21st of June, Mark Boyes, seemingly in the full vigor of health and activity, engaged in his work, was stricken down.  The large artery going from the heart had burst, and if his death was not entirely painless the agony must have been very brief.  He was born on the Boyes homestead in the town of Guilford, and lived on that and in the immediate neighborhood until 1872, when he moved into the village of Norwich, and after a residence of two years he bought a farm in DeKalb, Illinois, on which he spent the rest of his days.  A true and faithful friend, honorable and upright in all of his dealings, a level head well balanced over a kind heart, he commanded the respect of all that knew him.  Four of the six yet remain.  Warren Mosher lives in the town of Oxford, enjoying the competency his labors have brought, and the respect due to a useful member of society. Joseph Winsor, a successful farmer, a deacon in the Congregational church at Guilford Centre, is worthy of the confidence he commands.  Epp. Winsor may be found in Sidney, and his genial nature does not stem to be lessened by the weight of years.  Sylvanus Shumway lives in the town of Stockbridge, Madison county, blest with sufficient health for the labors and activities of life.  One by one their names will find a place in your death column, but who shall be first or who shall be last is known to Him who notes the sparrow's fall.

Grant Grover

d. June 29, 1874

A cloud of sadness was thrown over the people of Afton [Chenango Co., NY] on Monday of this week by the drowning of Grant, youngest son of Deacon Wm. B. Grover. Grant was a noble and promising boy, aged nine years.  While at school, he, in company with one or two other boys of his age, went to the river at the mouth of the cove on Corbin's flat to bathe.  Grant, by some mistake, fell in where the water was several feet deep, and before help could be summoned he was past recovery.  His funeral was attended on Wednesday, and the services were conducted by Rev. J. Jones, pastor of the Baptist church, assisted by Revs. T. P. Halsted and E.T. Jacobs, and were very solemn and impressive.  Grant will be missed in the family where he was much loved, as well as in the school and Sabbath School, where he was an attentive and faithful pupil.  We would sympathize with the family in this great bereavement.

Obituaries (September 7)

William McQueen

Utica Saturday Globe, September 1902
 

 

William McQueen

1839 - 1902

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At an early hour Monday morning William McQueen, a long-time and well-known resident of Norwich, died at his home on Court street, aged 63.  He had been about the house as usual the day and evening before he died and retired at the regular hour without any complaint.  About 5 o'clock in the morning he asked for a drink of water and Mrs. McQueen arose and gave it to him. An hour later, when she arose, she noticed her husband lying just as he did after drinking the water but he did not appear to be breathing.  A physician was immediately summoned but death had intervened.  Mr. McQueen, was born in Catskill [Greene Co., NY] February 24, 1839.  he had lived in Norwich for nearly 40 years. For many years he was one of the old stage coach drivers on the route between Binghamton and Utica, his section being between Binghamton and Greene.  Of late years his occupation was keeping a hitching and feed stable, which he continued to maintain up to about four years ago, when he suffered a stroke of paralysis, and although he partially recovered, was unfitted for active work.  He was a good horseman and everybody felt safe in entrusting teams to his care.  Deceased is survived by his wife and one sister, Mrs. Frances Goodwin, of East Brookfield, Vt., and one brother, Dwight McQueen of Catskill.  Funeral services were held at 3 o'clock Wednesday, Rev. J.S. Southworth officiating.  Burial in Mount Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY].

Frederick R. Newton

The Niagara Falls Gazette, February 13, 1925

F.R. Newton passed away at his home in Johnson Creek, N.Y. [Niagara Co.], on Tuesday morning February 10th.  Mr. Newton had been in poor health for some time but he was not considered dangerously ill until Saturday when he suffered a stroke of paralysis.  Mr.  Newton was born in Bainbridge, Chenango County, N.Y., on August 14, 1859.  In 1883 he was united in marriage to Caroline Somers of Portlandville, Otsego County, N.Y.  In 1884 they took up their residence in Corning where Mr. Newton was connected with the auditing department of the Fall Brook railroad until 1898 when that road was merged with the New York central system.  In 1898 Mr. and Mrs. Newton moved to Buffalo where Mr. Newton had a prominent part in the organization of the Central Railway Clearing House which was the first attempt to apply the clearing house idea to the operation of our large railway systems.  With the reorganization of the New York Central offices in 1924 and the enlargement of the clearing house idea the offices were then moved to Cleveland.  Mr. Newton remained with the office in Cleveland until -?- when he gave up his railroad job and moved to Niagara county.  Mr. Newton was a member of Hartland lodge F. and A.M.  Hartland grange 1190 and a senior warden in Trinity church, Middleport, N.Y.  He is survived by his wife, Caroline Somers Newton, one son, Frederick W. Newton of New York City, one daughter Mrs. Cromwell McIntosh of Kenmore.  the funeral services were held from his late home on Thursday morning at eleven o'clock.  Rev. Shaw of Middleport officiating.  Interment in Forest Lawn at Buffalo, at 2:30 p.m.

Cornelia S. Newton

Elmira Telegram, February 12, 1905

Mrs. Cornelia S. Newton expired Friday morning, at her home, No. 357 West First street.  Frederick R. Newton, of Buffalo, is a son, and Miss Harriet C. Newton, stenographer at the Second National bank, is a daughter of the deceased. A prayer service will be held at the house at 10 o'clock tomorrow morning.  The remains will be taken to Bainbridge for burial.

George E. Newton

Sidney Enterprise, October 29, 1931

George E. Newton died at his home on Gilbert street in this village [Sidney, Delaware Co., NY] Wednesday morning after being in feeble health for the past year, at the age of 82 years, he having been born in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] on August 8, 1849.  Mr. Newton was a mechanic by occupation and had lived in Sidney since 1909, but previous to that time he had also spent eight years a resident of the village.  In 1872, he was united in marriage with Miss Susan Bixby of Bainbridge, and to them were born five children:  James Newton of Syracuse, Raymond and Alvin newton of Schenectady, and Misses Alma and Grace Newton, who live at home and have made a home for their father since the mother passed away in 1902.  In the big fire which destroyed the old Novelty Works, their home was one of those burned down, and at that time many valuable documents of family history were also destroyed.  Mr. Newton was a member of Sidney lodge, No. 801, F.&A.M., and also of the Improved Order of Red Men, and during his days of activity took a great deal of interest in the work of these organizations.  He was a member of the Sidney Methodist Episcopal church, and as long as his health permitted was an attendant of that church.  During the past fifteen years he has led a retired life, due to the encroachments of age, and has been tenderly cared for by his children, who gave to their father the loving thoughtfulness which made his declining years so peaceful.  Mr. Newton was a man of quiet manner, well liked and respected for his many fine traits of character.  A large circle of friends will extend their sympathy to the surviving members of the family.  The funeral service will be held at the home on Gilbert street Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock.  Rev. Frederick Connell, pastor of the Sidney Methodist church officiating.  The interment will be in the family plot in the Episcopal cemetery at Bainbridge.

Nellie Newton

Miss Nellie Newton, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Geo. E. Newton of Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], died yesterday morning at about 7 o'clock, aged 19 years.  Miss Newton was a very highly esteemed young lady, a graduate of the class of '94, Bainbridge union school, and had a host of friend in Bainbridge, upon whom her untimely death casts a deep and lasting sorrow, and their heartfelt sympathy goes out to the bereaved parents in their sad affliction.  The funeral will be held at the late residence in Sidney, Friday, at 10 o'clock, interment in St. Peter's cemetery, this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].  [Note:  unmarked burial]

Agnes Bunnell Griffiths

Norwich Sun, November 1, 1928

Mrs. Agnes Bunnell Giffiths, 53 years old, passed on at her home in White Plains, Westchester county, Saturday, October 30.  The deceased was the daughter of K. Eugene and Mary (Hull) Bunnell having been born in Guilford, May 31, 1875.  She was married in Brooklyn, September 11, 1900 to Dr. A.F. Griffiths and to them was born one son Phillip who is still living.  Her early girlhood days were spent in the family home at Guilford a place which was always held in love and reverence by her.  In early life she was confirmed in Christ Episcopal church, Guilford, but upon her removal to Brooklyn she was transferred to the Holy Trinity church in Brooklyn where she was a loyal and faithful attendant.  The body was brought here the first of the week from White Plains and Tuesday afternoon the funeral services were held at her mother's home, the Rev. E.B. Doolittle officiating.  Burial was made in Sunset Hill cemetery, Guilford, beside kindred.  Mrs. Griffiths is survived one son Phillip, her mother, Mrs. Mary Bunnell, two sisters, Mrs. Maude Whiting, of Guilford and Mrs. Grace B. Foote of Bayside, L.I., two brothers, Arthur Bunnell of Pelham and Walter Bunnell of New York; four nieces, Mrs. Ethel Grabow of Guilford.  Mrs. Agnes Jeffrey of Norwich, Marjorie Snyder of Bayside and Margaret Bunnell of Pelham.

Adolphus Newton 1858 - 1910

Adolphus Newton

Elected Secretary of the Chenango Savings & Loan Assoc.

Utica Saturday Globe, July 1903

 

Adolphus Newton

1858 - 1910

 

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At a special meeting of the shareholders of the Chenango Cooperative Savings and Loan Association on Tuesday evening to choose a secretary to succeed Philo R. Aldrich, who was removed by death, about 350 shares of stock were represented.  Of this number Adolphus Newton received a majority there being but one other candidate, Scott R. Donaldson.  Edward J. Elliott was elected a trustee to fill the vacancy caused by the withdrawal of Mr. Newton to accept the position of secretary.

 

It was also voted by the shareholders to procure a large portrait of the late secretary, Mr. Aldrich, and hang the same on the wall of the association meeting room.  This latter action was taken as a slight but appropriate expression of the appreciation in which Mr. Aldrich's services to the association are held.  His tireless zeal in behalf of the organization coupled with his ability and thoroughness found fruit in the vigorous growth the association enjoyed during his secretaryship.  He was full of plans for the future in the work when death called him from his unfinished labors.  Nobody is more familiar with the duties involved or better fitted from his close association with Mr. Aldrich than Mr. Newton to take up the work where the late secretary laid it down and it is believed that under his charge the association will continue to thrive and prove to be in the future even more than in the past "a friend in need and a friend indeed" to many who are seeking to own a home of their own.  His choice was the most natural one under the existing circumstances and it is believed that coming days will demonstrate that no mistake has been made in the selection of a new secretary and virtual manager of one of the most important local industrial and financial institutions.

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Returned From the West

Former Secretary of Loan Association Indicted on Four Counts

Rome Daily Sentinel, October 6, 1909

 

Adolphus Newton, who resigned his position as secretary of the Chenango County Savings and Loan association at Norwich and went West, returned to Norwich this week and the grand jury now in session has indicted him on four counts, charging grand larceny, second degree.  he appeared before justice Stratten and entered a plea of not guilty to the indictments.  he is accused of appropriating several thousand dollars of the loan association's money.  His indictment and subsequent arrest have caused great surprise in Norwich.

Binghamton Press, October 6, 1909

Announcement was made yesterday afternoon of the indictments handed up by the Grand Jury which reported this week.  Included in the number were four against Adolphus Newton, formerly secretary of the Chenango County Savings and Loan Association of this village, by which indictments he is accused of the crime of grand larceny in the second degree.  At the time Mr. Newton resigned his position as secretary of the loan association and sent West, there were persistent rumors of a misappropriation of funds.  Subsequently it was rumored that a settlement had been made, and interest in the case dropped.  Mr. Newton returned to town a few months ago and has lived quietly here since.  He was taken before County Judge Stratton and entered pleas of not guilty on all four indictments. 

Insisted on Going to Prison

Utica Herald Dispatch, November 3, 1909

Norwich:  Adolphus Newton former secretary of a loan association here, was sentenced to a term in prison this morning for misappropriating funds belonging to the association.  After his crime Newton left town and sent to the State of Washington, but his conscience troubled him and he came back.  On his return he stopped off at Auburn and asked the prison officials to lock him up, which, of course, they could not do.  He wanted to be punished and he was indicted at the last session of the Grand Jury on three counts. This morning he was brought before Judge Stratton and sentenced to Auburn Prison for a maximum of one year and 10 months and a minimum of one year.  Newton was charged with, second degree.  Two other charges were withdrawn.  The judge and district Attorney and defendant talked the matter over a few days ago and they offered to give Newton a suspended sentence, but he insisted that he be sent to prison and today his wish was granted.

Commutation for Newton

Auburn Citizen, April 26, 1910

Adolphus Newton, 53 years of age and a physical wreck, this morning received a special commutation from Governor Charles E. Hughes commuting his sentence of not less than one year not more than one year and 10 months to five months and 22 days which made his sentence expire yesterday.  Newton pleaded guilty at Norwich, Chenango county, in November last to grand larceny in the second degree and on the same day was received at the prison.  Almost from the start he has been confined to the hospital  and was unable to walk to the clerk's office to sign his release and other necessary papers. he was carried in a chair by three attendants.  Then so feeble was he that it took him many minutes to make the motions to make his signature....His sister, Mrs. Davids, and daughter, Mrs. Cross, were at the prison to greet him.  They left on the 11:47 o'clock train for Norwich but Newton was taken back to the hospital to await the arrival of some friends who will help him back home where he will spend his remaining days.

Adolphus Newton Pardoned

Chenango Union, April 28, 1910

Adolphus Newton, the former secretary of the Chenango County Savings and Loan association, who was last spring sentenced to served a term in Auburn Prison following his plea of guilty to an indictment charging larceny, has been pardoned by Governor Hughes and this afternoon will leave the prison a free man.  Messrs. John H. White, L.H. Babcock and Louis Glasgow went to Auburn to bring him home today.

Mr. Newton probably enjoys the distinction of being the only man in New York state who has served time in the prison at Auburn of his own free will and accord.  He was offered a suspended sentence but refused to accept  this, saying that he wished to serve time.

He was indicted by the September, 1909 grand jury for misappropriating Loan association funds.  November 3, 1909, he appeared before Judge Stratton and changed his plea of not guilty to one of guilty.  Sentence of not less than one year not more than one year and ten months was imposed.  Newton volunteered to take his commitment papers and go to Auburn prison alone.  Although the officers had no doubt that he would do this, they did not accept the offer and he was taken to Auburn by Sheriff Beardsley.  Three other indictments pending against Mr. Newton at that time were dismissed.  Judge Stratton and the county officials stated at the time that they would have consented to a suspended sentence believing that the ends of justice would have been as well conserved in that case.  The accused,  however, insisted that he be sent to prison and his request was granted.

His health was then poor, and he has been failing continuously since.  His pardon by Governor Hughes was due largely to his physical condition.  It is not believed that he can long survive.

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Death Notice

Utica Herald Dispatch, May 21, 1910

Adolphus Newton, formerly secretary of the Chenango Savings Association at Norwich, recently pardoned from Auburn Prison, where he was serving a term for taking association funds, is dead at Norwich.  Newton was the man who refusing a suspension of sentence, insisted on serving a prison term in expiation of his crime.

Obituary - Wife of Adolphus Newton

Broome Republican, September 5, 1908

Mrs. Florence K. Newton, wife of Adolphus Newton of this village [Norwich, NY], died at her home on East Main street, Wednesday night, after a long and painful illness.  She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Abner Tucker of Pharsalia and was a woman of the best ideals and perfect character.  her life in this community, where she had resided for many years, is her best eulogy.  Her husband, four children, her father and mother, and three brothers and one sister survive.  Funeral services will be held from the Free Methodist church, of which she was a devoted member, Saturday afternoon at two o'clock, Rev. W.H. Clark of Rome officiating.