Saturday, December 26, 2015

Early Bainbridge, Letter to Editor, 1875

Letter to Editor from "Tuscarora", March 31, 1875
Bainbridge Republican, April 10, 1875

East Spring Hill, Mar. 31, '75
Editor Republican--In your notice to correspondents you invite contributions upon all subjects of "local interest," holding the writer responsible for his own views.
 
We propose as semi-"local" to put in our five cents, so we begin.
 
The hebdomadary visits of the Republican reminding us of boyhood days, are indeed refreshing.

Then we paused and asked:  Whose name is to bear all this burden?  Why, "Tuscarora!" way down in Pennsylvania, and he may as well talk natural.

Then we begin again, Mr. Editur:  It's mor'n 40 years sens we furst seed the Bisby's, the Warner's, the Redfield's and the Stowell's, that cum from Bainbridge to Tuscarora, and bo't a 400 acre lot of land (covered with awful big pine trees.) and built a saw mill and began to manufacture lumber.  Though less than ten years old we remember them well. They rented a farm of our father, also took us with them to carry troat when they went fishing.  They said "Bainbridge took a puke" when they came away--but there was some folks left.  Biglow kept tavern, and "Peter Betts," "Deck Newel" and "little Dick Grizel" lived in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

There was two meeting houses left, and a bridge across the Susquehanna river.

The "Bainbridge company" hired most of their hands and bro't with them, hence the liability of a company of good, bad, and indifferent.

Though our father was a Methodist class leader, he had to go nearly three miles to attend meeting, and as we did not often go we were not often in company with strangers, hence, when the "Bainbridge company" came we tho't it awful for men to swear, drink whisky, or fish on Sunday.

You see, Mr. Editor, how early in life we became interested in the doings of your place and vicinity.

Our place now may be put down about the same size yours was then.

As the boys from Bainbridge and vicinity took away captives as well as our timber, we have in turn tried to get our pay back.  How we beat or got worsted we may tell you in another letter.

Tuscarora.

Obituaries (December 26)

Martha A. Lippitt
Utica Saturday Globe, May 1912
 
 
Martha A. Lippitt

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  After several weeks of suffering, Mrs. Martha A. Lippitt died at the City Hospital in Cortland, Friday of last week.  Mrs. Lippitt was formerly a resident of Norwich, her deceased husband conducting for many years a jewelry store in the stand now occupied by B.H. Cheydleur.  Mrs. Lippitt was about 70 years of age.  She is survived by one son, William G. Lippitt, proprietor of the Messenger House, Cortland, N.Y.; one brother, O.B. Grant, and a sister, Mrs. Benjamin Lamoreaux, of Ridgeway Pa.  Brief services were held at Cortland Sunday evening, the body being taken to Hamilton Monday, where the funeral services were held in the Episcopal Church.  [Glen Buell Collection, Guernsey Memorial Library, Norwich, NY]
 
Ella Edgett
Utica Saturday Globe, May 1912
A beautiful memorial service was held Sunday evening in Canasawacta Lodge rooms, in honor of the late Mrs. Ella Edgett, wife of Gilbert Edgett, of South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].  The ceremony was conducted by 12 members of Lily of the Valley Lodge, No. 95, Degree of Rebekah.  Mrs. Edgett joined this lodge in 1901 and had successively filled all the official stations in the lodge and had been exalted to the office of district deputy president for Chenango county.  Mrs. Edgett passed away April 18.  [Glen Buell Collection, Guernsey Memorial Library, Norwich, NY]

Frank P. Hakes
Utica Saturday Globe, June 1912
 
 
Frank P. Hakes
1852 - 1912

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The death of Frank P. Hakes, one of the best known and best liked business men of Cortland, brought deep regret to many acquaintances in Norwich where he was well known, having been a leading resident of his native town of Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], prior to locating in Cortland in January, 1894.  His death occurred Thursday afternoon of last week after a long illness.  Deceased was born December 6, 1852, and for a score of years was a merchant in Pitcher and prominent in both town and county affairs.  He was elected supervisor of the town of Pitcher in 1883 and re-elected 10 successive terms, relinquishing the office upon his removal from the county.  He was chairman of the Board of Supervisors for two terms, being elected in 1900 and re-elected the following year.  He became a member of the insurance firm of Davis, Jenkins & Hakes when he first went to Cortland and at once assumed an active part in the business and social life of the place. He was elected a member of the Board of Education in 1900 and at his death was the senior member of the board, having served 12 years.  He was chairman of the Teachers' Committee for six consecutive years and was serving his second term as chairman of the board.  He was a member of all the Masonic bodies of the city; a past commander of Cortland Lodge, No. 470, past commander of Cortland Commandery, No. 50, K.T.; a past high priest of Cortland Chapter, No. 94, R.A.M., and an officer of the Lodge of Perfection.  He was a member of John L. Lewis lodge, No. 587, I.O.O.F., and of Cortland Lodge, no. 748, B.P.O. Elks, of which he was past exalted ruler.  He was one of the trustees of the Cortland Savings Bank and a former president of the Tioughnioga Club.  February 8, 1871, Mr. Hakes married Miss DeEtta A. Wilmarth, who survives him.  He also leaves two daughters, Mrs. Herbert R. Cone, of Cortland, and Mrs. J. Johnson Ray of Norwich; four brothers and one sister, Lucius M. Hakes, Randall Hakes, Emmett Hakes, Haskell Hakes and Mrs. Catherine Blackman, all of Pitcher.  He was buried with Masonic honors at Cortland Saturday afternoon.
[Glen Buell Collection, Guernsey Memorial Library, Norwich, NY]

DeEtta A. (Wilmarth) Hakes
Cortland Standard, March 5, 1925
Mrs. DeEtta A. Hakes, widow of the late Frank P. Hakes of Cortland, died suddenly Wednesday morning at her home in East Park Place at Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].  She was 75 years old February 8.  Mrs. Hakes had been in her usual good health and arose at the customary hour Wednesday morning.  She was stricken while in the act of preparing breakfast, and died in her chair before medical aid could reach her.  Heart disease was given as the cause of death.  The deceased was a woman of fine character and was the mother of Mrs. J. Johnson Ray and Mrs. Viola Cone, both of Norwich, residing with the latter.  Mrs. Hakes was a resident of Pitcher several years and later lived in Cortland.  Following the death of her husband in 1913 [sic] she went to Norwich and she and her daughter, Mrs. Cone, resided together on East Park Place.  She was a devoted member of the Congregational church at Pitcher and Cortland and had many friends who will regret to learn of her sudden demise. The only survivors are the two daughters above mentioned.  The funeral service will be held at the home of Mrs. J. Johnson Ray, North Broad street in Norwich at 11 o'clock Friday morning and the body will be brought to Cortland on the 4:46 train that afternoon, and placed in the receiving vault of the Cortland Rural cemetery, awaiting burial in the family lot in the spring.

Mrs. Maria L. (Angell] Brooks
DeRuyter Gleaner, June 20, 1912
The death of Mrs. Maria L . Brooks, wife of the late Freeman N. Brooks, occurred at the home of her youngest daughter, Mrs. B.S. Baldwin, May 26, 1912, at Lincklaen, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY].  She had been in usual health until the last few weeks and was about the house most of the time until Saturday, May 25 at 5 p.m., when she had a severe shock, from which she only partially rallied, passing away peacefully at 11:45 p.m. Sunday night.  Mrs. Brooks was born in Sherburne, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], May 5, 1838, and when a small child with her parents, Allen and Margaret Angell, moved to the town of Cuyler, N.Y. [Cortland Co.]  She was the youngest of thirteen children, only one of whom survives her, Mrs. Mary Allen of Taylor Center.  She is also survived by seven children, three sons and four daughters; Morell A. of Fabius, Mrs. Addie Wright of Cortland, Howard F. Brooks of Center Moriches, Long island, Mrs. Gertrude Chorley of Syracuse, Mrs. Myrtle Brown of Upper Lisle, Harris L. of Counell, Idaho, and Mrs. Lunette Baldwin of Lincklaen.  The youngest son, Harris L., went to Idaho a little over a year ago.  All but the latter were able to attend the funeral which was held May 29 at the home of Mr. and Mrs. B.S. Baldwin. There are also fifteen grandchildren, ten of whom attended the funeral.  Mrs. Brooks had for many years been a member of the M.E. church at Fabius.  Rev. Bacon, M.E. pastor of Cuyler, officiated, taking for his text, "She has done what she could," and the hymns "Only Remembered for What She Has Done," and "Asleep in Jesus," were sung.  Beautiful floral offerings were sent.  She was laid beside her husband in Woodlawn Cemetery, Lincklaen.  Funeral Director I.E. Smith had charge of the funeral.

Melissa Ardell (Westcott) Aspinwall
The Otsego Farmer, October 10, 1941
Mrs. John Aspinwall, who has been ill at her home for nearly four years, passed away at her home at 1 o'clock Friday afternoon, October 3d.  Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Stilwell Funeral Home. The Rev. Edward W. Hargrave, pastor of the Congregational-Christian church, of which Mrs. Aspinwall was a member, officiated.  Interment was made in the family plot at Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY].  The bearers were Philip Lalonde, Alfred Johnson, Grant Lents, Floyd Bresee, MacClennan Bresee, Ted Searles.  The floral pieces were from the Congregational-Christian church, neighbors, friends and relatives.  Melissa Ardell Westcott was born June 30, 1858, in the town of New Lisbon, a daughter of James and Sarah (Allen) Westcott and had spent the greater part of her life in New Lisbon and Hartwick.  On January 10, 1884, she was united in marriage with William Edgett of South New Berlin, who died July 29, 1915.  On July 29, 1923, she married John Aspinwall of Hartwick who survives her and has tenderly cared for her during her sickness.  Other survivors are Mrs. George A. Bresee of New Lisbon, Grover Edgett of Norwich, Mrs. C.H. Wright of Mt. Upton, August Edgett of Rockdale, Paul Edgett of Unadilla and Mrs. Alfred Johnson of Utica; several grandchildren and three great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Friday, December 25, 2015

1933 - America's Most Dramatic Year

America's Most Dramatic Year
Bainbridge News, December 28, 1933

It is the annual custom on New Year's Eve to speed the departing year with quip, song and flowing cup, and to welcome the New Year with hilarity, hope and enthusiasm, but few men now living can recall a year with which most people are willing to more cheerfully part than the year 1933, which will next Sunday night pass into history, going unmourned if not unsung into the past.
 
Nineteen-thirty-three goes down in history as the most dramatic year in American history and, as future historians will record, a year of the most momentous importance politically and socially.  No living man can recall a year in the history of this nation when the horizons were more frequently clogged with clouds of evil portent; no year when the days were fraught with greater possibilities of good or ill.

The year 1933 opened with the nation tasting the bitter dregs at the bottom of the cup of fortune.  Four years of depression had brought all of the people face to face with stern realities.  Marking time between the casting down of one administration and the assumption of power and responsibility by a new administration offering vague promises of a "new deal," the country was in the throes of a destructive negativism which had resulted in well nigh complete industrial and business paralysis.  The people waited for a new hand at the helm in Washington and the uncertainties to come with the shift of political power; a shift mandated by the voters in the polling booths as an answer to the way the situation had been handled or not handled in the years of the depression.
 
Then came March with the new President [Franklin Roosevelt] taking command at the capital just as the economic fabric of the country was torn asunder by further great bank failures and chaos seemed lurking just over the hill.  What a drama!  A new President taking office with the entire banking structure of the country crumbling, and turning from the inauguration ceremonies almost instantly to take pen in hand and order every bank in the nation closed in order to salvage the remnant of credit and save such banks as were worth salvaging, to the end that confidence might not be absolutely destroyed.
 
Did anything ever happen in this or any other land more astounding or dramatic?  And the American people took the blow on the chin and smiled.  No disorder, no disturbances, noise or confusion; just a good-natured acceptance of the fact and a seeming confidence that it was a wise move, that the crisis of the national fever had been reached and that improvement was on the way.
 
Then followed rapidly a series of Congressional actions at the request of the new President, who was determined to lift the nation out of the slough of despond and institute a new prosperity in the land.  These measures earned the support of the people as they were enacted. Business, which had survived a most terrific blow responded to the new feeling.  Then came measures to conserve the banks, to save private homes, to help the farmer, to aid great and small businesses, followed by the industrial Recovery Act, under which it was proposed to put millions to work by shortening the hours of those already employed so that what work there was might be shared by all. Whatever may be one's private opinion of this measure it must be admitted that it is working and that the condition of the worker is better under the act.  More lately, evidencing that he meant what he said when he promised to do what he could to alleviate the condition of "The Forgotten Man," the President instituted the Civil Works Administration, which is charged with the duty of seeing to it that "there shall not be another winter like the last" and discharging that task by opening up civil works throughout the land to put millions of men to work throughout the winter at real wages.
 
All this activity has earned commendation and it has earned criticism.  The year closes with the friends of the President claiming a large measure of success for his endeavors, and pointing to indications that the success is real.  But the President has made enemies as well as friends.  Powerful forces are stirred against his policies, particularly the monetary policy of his administration.  A new Congress will shortly sit in Washington and in all likelihood the administration's activities will come in for discussion and criticism.  Congress will be divided into three camps on the money question; the middle-ground fellows who believe, like the average run of American citizens, that the President has no intention of permitting uncontrolled inflation and who believe with him that a sound dollar evaluated to proper proportions is best; then on the one side the radical inflationist, who want to see the printing presses started and the obligations of the government paid off in fiat money, and on the other side the dyed-in-the-wool conservatives, who want the country returned at once to the gold standard, and decry artificial means of restoring the semblance of life to the near-corpse of American business.
 
In the meantime the depression drags on toward a brighter day.  Better times must come whatever the policy of the government.  Whether the Roosevelt administration is building a sound recovery or whether it is building a house of cards--an artificial and synthetic prosperity--remains to be seen.
 
Yes, 1933 has been a dramatic year!  Most people say goodbye to the waning year without regret.  Few would care to live it over again.  It may be that 1934 will be more dramatic, although that would seem to be impossible.  We shall see what we shall see.  But let us not forget that it is a privilege to be alive in so portentous an age.
 
 


Marriages (December 25)

Bickford - McLagan
1923
At the Emmanuel rectory Wednesday, Miss Milicent M. McLagan and Gorden H. Bickford were united in marriage by the Rev. Frank Dean Clifford.  The bride was attired in white organdie, which was also her graduation dress, she being one of the five who graduated Wednesday night at South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] in the class of 1923.  The bride is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Ban of South New Berlin, who have always cared for her since her mother died. The groom is a promising young man of Greenfield, Mass., son of Mr. and Mrs. O.S. Bickford of that city, where the young couple will reside. The attendants were Mr. and Mts. Sperry Sargent and daughter Marion of Norwich.
 
Blenis - Haynes
Miss Ellen Grant Haynes, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James A. Haynes of 7 Jones avenue, and Maxwell Elroy Blenis, son of Mrs. DeVer Brooks of Norwich, were united in marriage Friday night at 8 o'clock in Emmanuel Episcopal church.  Rev. Lloyd S. Charters, rector, performed the ceremony in the presence of the immediate families.  The bride was attended by her sister, Miss Grace V. Haynes, while Earl Whitehouse acted as best man.  Immediately following the ceremony, a reception was held for members of the wedding party at the home of the bride's parents.  Mr. and Mrs. Blenis will reside in Norwich.
 
Marriage Notices
Chenango Telegraph, April 13, 1859
 
HAYNES - WINSLOW:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., by Rev. James W. Capen, Henry I. Haynes to miss Marietta Winslow, all of this village.
 
SEXTON - BROWN:  In Bedford, Westchester Co., by Rev. Mr. Parks, on Monday, the 4th inst., George D. Sexton, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Abby Brown of the former place.
 
HOWARD - HUBBY:  In South Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY] on the 3d inst. by Rev. M.B. Cleveland, Sidney Howard, of Columbus [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Harriet Hubby of the former place.
 
SIMMONS - BEEBE:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst. by Rev. M.B. Cleveland, Ervin Simmons to Miss Martha A. Beebe.
 
SCHOFIELD - EDDY:  At the Presbyterian church in Cincinnatus, Cortland Co., on the 6th inst. by Rev. Mr. Lee, Jesse Schofield, Esq., of Lexington, Mo. to Miss Andalusia Z. Eddy of Pharsalia, Chenango Co.
 
JERMY - HARDER:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 3d inst. by Rev. A.T. Matteson, William Jermy to Miss Rosella Harder, both of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].
 
WHITING - VANAUKEN:  In Montague, at the house of the bride's uncle, on the 16th ult., by Rev. H. Dutcher Benjamin Whiting to Miss Helen A. Vanauken, all of Montague, Sussex county, N.J.
 
LAMBERT - SLATER: Also by the same, on the 31st ult., Nathan M. Lambert to Miss Mary Ann Slater, all of Montague, Sussex County, N.J.
 
Chenango Union, December 25, 1873
 
GADSBY - VAN PELT:  In Schenevus, Dec. 2d, by Rev. A.M. Colgrove, Mr. George F. Gadsby, of Butternuts [Otsego Co., NY] to Mrs. Parmila A. Payne, Formerly of Greene [Chenango Co., NY]
 
HALL - PAYNE:  In Wells, Minn., Nov. 8th, Mr. Charles W. Hall, of Wells to Mrs. Parmelia A. Payne, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co., NY]
 
ROUNDS - CARHART:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 17th, by Rev. LD. Turner, Mr. Reuben Rounds, to Miss Mary R. Carhart, both of Oxford.
 
The Oxford Times, November 23, 1886
 
DAVISON - CRANDALL:  In Sherburne, Nov. 17 by Rev. J.W. Mevis, Frank Dayison of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Addie L. Crandall of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY]
 
SEARLES - KING:  At North Sanford [Broome Co., NY], by Rev. H.C. Leach of Afton, Leroy N. Searles of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] to Mary H. King of North Sanford.
 
STANARD - RICHER:  In DeRuyter, Nov.; 11, by Rev. L.R Swinney, Devillo Stanard and Dora Richer, both of Otselic [Chenango Co., NY]
 
TATE - EDDY:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 14, by Rev. Mr. Cook, Olin Tate to Olive Eddy.
 
WEBB - FRINK:  At Beaver Meadow, Nov. 9, by Rev. S.H. Adriance, Reuben Webb of Beaver Meadow [Chenango Co., NY] to Mrs. Eliza A. Frink of North Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY].
 
 
 

Obituaries (December 25)

Josephine Elizabeth Smith
Utica Saturday Globe, 1912

 
Mrs. Josephine Elizabeth Smith
1849 - 1912

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The sudden death of Mrs. Josephine Elizabeth Smith, wife of the late Erwin B. Smith, which occurred Tuesday at the home of her son, Clayton H. Smith, of 15 West street, brought to its close a life of remarkable sweetness.  Age had caused in her no falling off in that graciousness of manner, that kindness of heart, that sweetness of soul, which had been the delight and charm of her friends and which shall long remain a cherished memory.  She had the delightful quality of unselfishness developed to a remarkable degree and the warmest memory of those left to mourn her departure will hover over the many kind and gentle ministrations which her loving heart prompted and her willing hands delighted to perform. To those who enjoyed her loyal friendship her death brought a sense of personal loss, compensated in this, however, that her days had reached their fullness and that beautified with many noble virtues, her soul has reached the haven of Christian rest.  Mrs. Smith was born in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] and had passed almost her entire life in that village until she came to this city nine years ago.  Her husband died three years ago, since which time she had resided with her son Clayton H. Smith.  Early in life she became a member of the Methodist church, at Guilford, and upon her removal to this city, transferred her membership to the South Street M.E. Church.  She was a member of Temple Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, and Jesse B. Anthony Court, Order of the Amaranth.  Besides the son with whom she resided,  Mrs. Smith is survived by a son, Clarence M. Smith, and two grandchildren, of this city, and a brother, William G. Brant, of Norwich.  The funeral services were held from her late home Thursday afternoon, Rev. Mr. Burke, of the M.E.church, of Norwich, officiating.  Interment was made in the family plot in Guilford Cemetery [Sunset Hill Cemetery].  [Glen Buell Collection, Guernsey Memorial Library, Norwich, NY]
 
Roxy Benedict
Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, March 30, 1901
Coventry [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. Roxy Benedict, who has made it her home at J. Thorp's died there March 21st.  She was a sister of Mrs. Thorp, who was recently buried here.  Mrs. Benedict's remains were taken to Sidney Sunday [Delaware Co., NY] for interment.
 
Ida Foote
Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, March 30, 1901
Coventry [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. Apollos Foote died March 17, 1901, at her home here.  She was 41 years old, and a member of the M.E. church.  She was a good neighbor and always willing and faithful in sickness.  Deceased is survived by a husband, two sons, Ray and George, two daughters, Bertha and Sarah, and her father, and leaves also a large circle of friends to mourn her loss. The funeral was held the 20th, with Rev. W. Horton officiating.
 
Death Notices
Chenango Union, December 25, 1873
 
WARNER:  In East Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] Dec. 18th, Mr. Orrin Warner, aged 49 years.
 
REDMOND:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 17th, John [Redmond], only son of Walter and julia Redmond, aged 6 years.
 
ROYCE:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Mr. Loyal Royce, aged 64 years.
 
BROWN:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 21st, Mrs. Candace Brown, aged 71 years.
 
WHITCOMB:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 17th, Mr. Asa Whitcomb, aged 63 years.
 
SMITH:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 16th, Miss Rena Smith, aged 80 years.
 
CLARK:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], Dec. 9th, Hon. David Clark, aged 73 years.
 
HARRINGTON:  In Castile, Wyoming Co., Dec. 11th, Mr. William Harrington, aged 62 years and 11 months, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY]
 
The Oxford Times, November 23, 1886
 
BUELL:  At KIng's Settlement [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 12, Sarah J., wife of Simon Buell, aged 59 years.
 
FRANCISCO:  In Franklin, N.Y. [Delaware Co.], Nov. 16, 1886, Mrs. Polly Francisco aged 86 years and 5 months.
 
GORHAM:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 14, Alonzo D. Gorham, aged 59 years.
 
HANRAHAN:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 8, Johanna Hanrahan, aged 17 years.
 
Horton:  In Holmesville [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 11, Henry A. Horton, aged 68 years.
 
PARKER:  In Coventry, Nov. 15, Jane A., wife of  J.S. Parker, aged 67 years.
 
PECK:  In Norwich, Nov. 16, Daniel B. Peck, aged 22 years.
 
RANDALL:  In Sherburne, Nov. 16, Vespasian Randall, aged 68 years.
 
ROMANS:  In Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], Nov. 12, Frank C. Romans of Bennettsville [Chenango Co., NY], aged 28 years.
 
WELLS:  In Scatterwood, Dak., Oct. 26, Newton P. Wells, formerly of North Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY].
 
WRENCH:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 10, Alice B. Wrench, aged 28 years.
 

Judge Ray Threatened - 1912

Threats For Judge Ray
Exposure of Death Plot of Convicted Sicilians
Utica Saturday Globe, June 1912
 
 
Judge George W. Ray and grandson
 
Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Press dispatches early in the week exposed a plot hatched behind the bars of the United States prison in Atlanta, Ga., by several members of the Lupo-Morello Sicilian gang of counterfeiters and murderers to assassinate William J. Flynn, chief of the New York division of the secret service, who ran the counterfeiters to bay, and also to kill judge George W. Ray, of the United States District court, who sentenced the coiners to terms of from 15 to 30 years at hard labor in the United States prison.
 
One of the Sicilians told of the plot which was formed last December, when two Sicilians visited Ignazio Lupo, known as "The Wolf," and were instructed to kill the secret service chief and judge Ray. Even during the trial Ray is said to have received a threat of death in a letter, which read:  "If Lupo, Morello and their companions are not liberated you will die like a dog. We have killed better men than you or Smith or Flynn."
 
The Smith referred to was Abel I. Smith, assistant United States attorney, who prosecuted the counterfeiters.  Chief Flynn believes the gang is seeking his life and that its members know who killed Detective Petrostino in Sicily some years ago.
 
As for Judge Ray, he does not seem to be disturbed by any threats of personal harm, or the exploiting of plots to take his life.  He certainly will not be deterred from doing his duty by any such course on the part of condemned criminals.
 
During the days spent at his home in Norwich, a favorite pastime of the judge is the entertainment of his only grandchild, George W., Ray, Jr., the small son of Postmaster and Mrs. J. Johnson Ray.  Grandfather and grandson are nearly inseparable and each vies with the other in getting the most recreation possible out of the hours they are able to spend together.  Already the youngster gives promise of leading as strenuous a life as his distinguished grandfather.

Thursday, December 24, 2015

Norwich NY 70 Years ago, Reminiscenses in 1906

Seventy Years Ago
Reminiscences of Early Days in Norwich, Chenango Co., NY 
Related by George W. Denslow, Who Was Ninety Years Old on Sept. 19, 1906
Compiled for the Union by Leonard W. Cogswell
Chenango Union, November 8, 1906
 
I remember the founding of the Norwich foundry and machine shop owned by Samuel Chubbuck, Judah Bement, David Griffing, Hiram Haynes and Hiram Weller.  I knew all those men well, and did business with them.  Their shop was near the present one on the west bank of the canal and near the East Main st. bridge.
 
On West Main street, about where Guernsey street now is, there was a brook flowed down through the north side of High school lot, and where the little house now stands in the corner of the library park property where the trout pond was, there was what was called in those days an "ashery" where potash and soda were made from wood ashes.  Water was run through wood ashes, the resulting liqud evaporated, and from the dry residue rough potash was refined.  Then by another process soda was obtained, and quite a business was done.  The leached ashes were used for fertilizer.
 
Opposite the stone mill on West Main st., across the creek, was a sawmill owned by Wm. Guernsey, where logs and timber were cut up.  The old canal which conveyed water to the wheel and cellar walls of the mill is still visible [in 1906].  Sometime in the 50's I cut down a tree in the rear of my lot and took it up there to be sawed.  I didn't think it would make much, but it made a grand good timber, and I got a lot of money out of it. That was the last log ever sawed in that mill.
 
Down by Austin Taylor's there was a wool carding mill which enclosed what is now Locust street. The farmers took their wool there where it was carded, and then taken home where the women of the house made it into yarn which was spun into stockings, or else woven into cloth which was afterwards sent away to be fulled, then brought back home to be cut into clothes.  When I was a boy all my stockings and clothes were made by hand that way, instead of machinery.
 
I remember when David Maydole started in making his adze-eye hammer, and have seen that business grow from a small beginning to the enormous industry it now is [in 1906].  I knew Mr. Maydole very well, and talked frequently with him.
 
I knew Harvey Hubbard, John F. Hubbard and John F. Hubbard Jr.  It would be hard to find three better, more vigorous and independent thinkers and influential men in any community than those three.  They were all at some time identified with newspapers in this town, and their writings possessed a vigorous personality of their own.  They did their own thinking, and I wish we had more democrats nowadays like them. 
 
When I came here in 1937 I was a carriage maker by trade, and I went to work for John Dodge where Will Coe's house is on East Main st. Then, after two years,  I worked for Snow & Warner, and in 1840 formed the partnership of Dodge & Denslow.  The business proving unsuccessful, I soon went to work for Coddington Brown, and remained with him until the panic of '57 swept the country, carrying down so many business houses.  Then I embarked in the carriage business on my own hook, and was burned out three times,--in 1858, 1863 and 1867.  But each time it burned up my own property, for I owed no man a dollar, but I had no insurance.  I remained in business until September, 1902, when I retired from work, having worked continuously for 70 long years.  But work is good for a man.  "It is better to wear out than to rust out" is an old saying, and I am not very much worn out or rusty yet!
 
The stage house stood where the Joe Latham house is, and was kept by George l. Rider. There all the stages which ran between Utica and Binghamton stopped.  On the great thoroughfares the old fashioned stage coaches, called "thoroughbreds" were pretty good vehicles. They would accommodate 9 persons on the inside, and 5 or 6 on the outside.  A seat with the driver was a great treat, because he knew everybody on the road and could talk entertainingly.  He carried all the news and gossip from town to town, and there was more news to be obtained from a stage driver in those days than from a newspaper.  Nowadays newspapers sometimes print things before they happen!  On the back of the stage was the baggage covered with a heavy boot.  When approaching the town the driver would crack his long whip at his four horses, blow his horn, and they would dash through the street to the stage house on a gallop, suddenly pulling the horses up on their haunches in a cloud of dust!
 
There was the stone mill on West Main st., and an oil mill a little ways down the street where they made flaxseed oil.  Then there was a candle mill on Lock st., where tallow candles were made, for all lights were from tallow dips or molds.  I remember when a freshet tore down one end of the mill and let a lot of oil and flax into the brook.
 
To be continued

Obituaries (December 24)

Frank D. Hill
Utica Saturday Globe, May 1912
 
 
Frank D. Hill
1856 - 1912
 
Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  After an illness extending over several years Frank D. Hill died at his home on Maydole street Tuesday morning, aged 53.  Deceased was the son of George and Lucretia Hill and was a native of the town of Lebanon [Chenango Co., NY], but the greater share of his life had been passed in this village.  February 22, 1883, he married Miss Albina Harrington, of Norwich, who survives him, together with one daughter, Hazel, of this village; a sister, Mrs. O.E. Marsh, of Peterboro, Madison county, and one brother, Eugene Hill, of Eden, Ala.  For over 15 years Mr. Hill was an employee of the David Maydole Hammer Company, leaving there to accept a position in the New York, Ontario & Western Railroad shops.  He was a member of Empire lodge of Car Workers and was well known.  Funeral services were held from his late residence Thursday morning, Rev. J.B. Wilson officiating.  The remains were taken to Earlville [Madison Co., NY] for interment.  [Glen Buell Collection, Guernsey Memorial Library, Norwich, NY]
 
Edward G. Bowers
1882 - 1942
Edward G. Bowers, aged 59, well known resident of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], died at 7 o'clock Friday morning at the home of his sister, Mrs. Lena Flanagan of 26 Rexford street, following a long period of failing health.  He was born in the town of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], June 19, 1882, and had resided in Norwich for the past three years.  Most of his life was spent in the town of New Berlin following the occupation of farming.  He was the son of Frank Bowers and Mary Malloy Bowers.  Deceased is survived by his wife, Pearl Tilyou Bowers; six children, Merritt L Bowers of South New Berlin, Raymond Bowers of Hamilton, Byron Bowers of New Berlin and Percy W. Bowers, Fenimore Bowers and Gilbert Bowers of Norwich; 10 grandchildren; three sisters, Mrs. Harriette L. Button of South New Berlin, Mrs. Grace Leonard of Norwich and Mrs. Lena Flanagan of Norwich and several nieces, nephews and cousins.   Mr. Bowers was united in marriage with Pearl Tilyou at Deposit by Rev. William Howell on February 16, 1904.  Devoted to his family, Mr. Bowers was a good neighbor and was well liked by a number of friends and associates.  The body will rest at the home of his sister, Mrs. Flanagan, 26 Rexford street,  until Monday morning where funeral services will be held at 9 o'clock, prior to services at 9:30 o'clock in St. Paul's church. Rev. Charles M. Coveney will officiate.  Burial will be made in St. Paul's cemetery [Norwich, NY].
 
Henry Gilbert Bowers
1856 - 1941
Henry Gilbert Bowers passed away at the family home, 17 Tillman avenue, at 9:30 a.m. Friday following an illness of about four weeks.  Immediately surviving Mr. Bowers is an only daughter, Avis M., residing at home, and numerous nieces and nephews.  Mr. Bower's wife, Adelia M. Aylesworth, died six years ago.  Mr. Bowers was born in Whaupaunaucau, Nov. 10, 1856, the son of Gilbert H. and Harriet Pendell Bowers.  His entire life had been spent in this vicinity.  For years he resided on a farm in King Settlement moving to Norwich about 28 years ago.  For 18 years thereafter he was employed by the Maydole Hammer Company but retired about 10 years ago and since has not been regularly employed.  Early in life Mr. Bowers untied with the King Settlement M.E. church and upon moving to Norwich transferred his membership to the Broad Street Methodist church.  Mr. Bowers had no lodge affiliations, all his social activities being confined to church life.  Funeral services will be held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock form the Breese Funeral Home with burial in Mount Hope cemetery [Norwich, NY].
 
Leroy H. Bowers
1888 - 1937
Leroy H. Bowers, native of the Town of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] and for thirteen years an employee of the city street department, died at his home, Mitchell street, January 4, aged 48, following an illness which compelled him to relinquish his position last October.  Funeral services are appointed for Thursday afternoon.  Mr. Bowers is survived by his wife and one daughter, Mrs. Mildred Whiting of this city; three brothers, Reed Bowers and John Bowers of Norwich and Chas. Bowers of South New Berlin.--Chenango Union
 
William Bowers
1841 - 1933
Funeral services for William Bowers, who died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Frank Brooks in North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], will be held Thursday afternoon at 1 o'clock at the home with burial in South new Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].  Rev. W.S. Crandall of Binghamton will officiate.  Mr. Bowers would have reached his 94th birthday anniversary had he lived until July.  He had always been a resident of Chenango county.  Besides the daughter above named he is survived by another daughter, Mrs. Helen Morrell of Chenango Lake and five grandsons; Police Chief Lelan Brookins and Officer Ivon Morrell of Norwich,  Eugene Brooks of North Norwich and Herbert and Edwin Brooks of South New Berlin.--Norwich Sun.
 
 

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Bainbridge Central, Class of 1956 - Part 2

Bainbridge Central High School, Class of 1956
Senior Portraits
"Echo" 1956
 
 
 
Darwin Bethel Bickford
 

 
Richard Edwin Bradshaw
Class President
 

 
Clarke Wilson Bugbee
 

 
Jerome Ernest Butcher
Junior Prom King
 

 
Richard Dennis Collins
 

 
Frank Clement Corbin, Jr.
Class Treasurer


Obituaries (December 23)

Lois E. Wells
Utica Saturday Globe, May 1912
 
 
Miss Lois E. Wells
1866 - 1912

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The remains of Miss Lois E. Wells arrived in Norwich Sunday evening, her death having occurred at Clifton Springs Sanitarium Saturday.  For four years Miss Wells had taught in the intermediate department of the South street school in Utica [Oneida Co., NY], leaving there for the sanitarium at the spring vacation.  Miss Wells was 47 years of age and was born in Syracuse [Onondaga Co., NY].  In her girlhood the family came to Norwich, where for many years her father was the leading photographer.  Miss Wells was educated in the Norwich Academy and later became an efficient teacher in the Norwich High School, severing her connection with that institution after a long period of faithful service to accept a similar but more remunerative position in Utica.  While in that city she was a member of the New Century Club and the Utica Teachers' Association.  She was the last survivor of her family, both parents and a brother having previously passed away.  Brief funeral services were held in the parlors of the First Baptist Church at 4 o'clock Tuesday, burial being made in Mount Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY].  Among the floral tributes was a magnificent contribution from the teachers and pupils in the Utica school, showing esteem in which she was held by them and expressing the sentiment shared by all who knew her.  [Glen Buell Collection, Guernsey Memorial Library, Norwich, NY]

Death Notices
Chenango Union, September 20, 1883

BRUCHHAUSEN:  At her home in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 17th, 1883, Mrs. Mary Leonard Bruchhausen, wife of Dr. Caspar Bruchhausen, aged 60 years, 3 months and 21 days.

WALTER:  In Bath [Steuben Co., NY], Sept. 14th, Mrs. Mary A. Walter, widow of the late Horatio N. Walter, of Norwich, aged 69 years.

MINER:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 12th, Mr. Benjamin Miner, aged 58 years, brother of Paul R. Miner, of this village [Norwich, NY].

LETT:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 15th,  Mr. Thomas Lett, aged 72 years.

McCULLOR:  In Brisben [Chenango Co., NY] Sept. 7th, Mr. Sherman A. McCullor, aged 63 years.

PORTER:  In East Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 8th, Miss Lucretia Porter, aged 72 years.

FREER:  In West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 12th, Catharine L., wife of William Freer, aged 72 years.

WHITE:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], Sept. 13th, Mr. Richmond White, aged 86 years.

HILL:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY] Sept. 11th, Charlotte Amata [Hill], youngest daughter of J.P. Hill.

MILAN:  Killed by the cars, in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 12th, Anna, wife of George Milan, aged about 35 years.

WAGONER:  Killed, near White Store, Sept. 13th, Mr. William Wagoner, aged about 30 years of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

BEECH:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 4th, Mrs. Emilia Beech, aged 95 years.

JONES:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 11th, Will Jones, in the 19th year of his age.  His remains were taken to South New Berlin for interment.

CHURCH:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 9th, Cora [Church], only daughter of R.R. Church, aged 12 years.

WILLIAMS:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY] Sept. 9th, Mrs. Thankful P. Williams, aged 83 years.

EASTON:  At Coon Rapids, Iowa, Sept. 12th, Mr. Wallace Easton, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], aged 21 years.

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Heroic Act of Harold Snow - 1912

Heroic Act of Harold Snow
Utica Saturday Globe, May 1912
 
 
Harold W. Snow
 
Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Norwich men, after all, are very much like other men, in spite of some alleged shortcomings.  Perhaps that sentence, now that it is in print, will need some explanation.  Here it is:
 
The terrible tale of the Titanic disaster was under discussion in a Norwich household the other day when a spinster sister remarked that if the male passengers aboard the steamer had been from Norwich fewer women and children would have been saved.  As if in refutation of this reflection upon the valor and self-sacrifice of the male members of our population comes this story from the west showing how a former Norwich boy rendered the stuff out of which heroes are made.
 
Harold W. Snow, son of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence M. Snow, of this village, now a resident of Chicago, stood on the station platform at Jackson, Miss., Friday when he saw an aged negress step onto the railroad tracks, apparently not realizing her danger from an approaching locomotive. Regardless of his own peril, Mr. Snow seized the woman and pushed her out of the pathway of the engine, but failed to get himself clear of the track.  His right leg was crushed so that it had to be amputated a few inches above the foot, his right arm was badly injured and there were severe cuts on his head.  Mr. Snow's wife and her father are with him in Jackson, having gone there, after the accident, from their home in Chicago.
 
It is seven years since Mr Snow left Norwich for the west, where he worked first for his uncle, Charles R. Westcott, of the Chicago, Peoria & St. Louis Railway.  About four years ago he entered the employ of the Illinois Central in the capacity of secretary to the assistant chief engineer of the road.  He is 27 years of age and was married in Clinton, Ill., about two years ago.  The news of the accident was an unpleasant shock to his many friends here, where, before his departure, he was a member of the George Rider Hook and Ladder company, a Mason and a member of the Ramblers.  His father, Clarence M. Snow, has been in the employ of the O.&W. as baggageman on the Delhi Flyer for about 30 years. About 23 years ago he lost his left wrist when he fell between the wheels of a freight car, at which time he was a brakeman.
 
The negro woman whose life Mr. Snow saved was about 75 years of age and was named Annie Merdith.  She was only slightly injured from a fall when pushed from the track.  Mr. Snow would undoubtedly have been killed except for the quick action of an engineer named Walsh, who was standing near and grabbed Snow, thus preventing him from being drawn under the engine, but could not release him until he had been dragged 30 or 40 feet.
 
Mr. Snow is now at the Baptist Hospital in Jackson and it is learned form a letter received by his parents Thursday morning that he is doing well and will probably recover.
 
[Glen Buell Collection, Guernsey Memorial Library, Norwich, NY]

Obituaries (December 22)

Rev. Asa J. Van Cleft
Utica Saturday Globe, April 1912
 
 
Rev. Asa J. Van Cleft
 
Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At his home in Binghamton [Broome Co., NY] Friday occurred the death of Rev. Asa J. Van Cleft, Ph. D., a former pastor of the Broad Street M.E. Church in this place.  For more than half a century Dr. Van Cleft was an honored member of the Wyoming Conference of Methodist Episcopal Churches and had served faithfully and well in some of the leading pulpits of the conference.  Among the parishes in Pennsylvania in which he was pastor were those at Honesdale, Providence, Dunmore, Scranton, Ashley and Dalton.   For four years he was pastor of the Broad Street church in Norwich.  He had been presiding elder over the Honesdale district and later of the Oneonta district. As financial agent of the Preachers' Aid Society he made his home in Binghamton in which city he subsequently served as pastor of the Clinton Street church.  Two years ago he was appointed to the pastorate at Great Bend, Pa., where after nine months' successful work he became ill with blood poisoning and was forced to relinquish his pastoral duties and returned to Binghamton.  Since that time he had been a great and patient sufferer.  He seemed to be recovering when an attack of grip caused a sudden change for the worse and brought about a fatal result.  Dr. Van Cleft was born in Waverly [Tioga Co., NY] about 74 years ago.  He prepared himself for the ministry and became a preacher soon after attaining his majority.  He was twice married, his first wife being Miss Elizabeth B. Wood, daughter of a prominent banker of Wilkes-Barre, Pa., to whom he was married December 10, 1863.  She died March 12, 1906.  His second wife was Alice E. Frear, of Binghamton, who survives him.  He leaves five children, Mrs. Daniel B. Cushman and John B. Van Cleft, of Norwich; Mrs. T.L. Raymond, of South Norwalk, Conn.; Dr. Edgar Van Cleft, of Oneonta, and Mrs. Frederick D. Branch, wife of Dr. Branch, of Binghamton.  There are also seven grandchildren:  Jesse D., Ruth, Elizabeth and Edward Van Cleft Cushman and Margaret B. Van Cleft, of Norwich; Kathleen Van Cleft, of Oneonta; Fred Van Cleft and Priscilla Branch, of Binghamton.  Funeral services were held on Monday afternoon at 1:30 in the chapel of the Chenango Street Methodist Episcopal Church in Binghamton, Rev. Sweet officiating.  A large delegation of pastors from the various churches attended and led by Rev. A.D. Rines sang several selections.  The bearers were Rev. H.M. Crydenwise, Rev. Mr. Floyd, Rev. Mr. Clark, Rev. Mr. Crompton, Rev. Mr. Nicholson and Rev. C.B. Henry.  The body was brought to Norwich for burial in Mount Hope Cemetery.  [Glen Buell Collection, Guernsey Memorial Library, Norwich, NY]
 
Julia A. (Williams) Harris
Utica Saturday Globe, May 1912
 
 
Julia A. (Williams) Harris
1838 - 1912
 
Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At her home on Birdsall street Monday morning Julia A., wife of Arthur L. Harris, passed into rest.  All winter her health had been broken and for a month or more she had been a great but patient sufferer and maintained her cheerfulness until the end.  Mrs. Harris was 64 years of age, having been born in Norwich October 4, 1847.  She was one of seven children of Deacon and Mrs. Samuel W. Williams.  On December 25, 1866, she married Arthur L. Harris, of Williamsport, Pa., where they made their home for a time.  They later took up their residence in Seneca county, New York State, and afterwards returned to Chenango county, Mrs. Harris being a native of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].  For a number of years they have resided in Norwich.  Mrs. Harris was a woman of noble and inspiring character and was greatly beloved in her home and by all who knew her.  She was a member of the Broad Street M.E. Church.  Besides her husband, Mrs. Harris is survived by one daughter, Mrs. George B. Towner, of this place. Another daughter, Mrs. Mary Hitchcock, died two years ago.  There are four grandchildren, Munson and Claude Towner and Justin Hitchcock, of Norwich, and Clifford A. Harris, of New Haven, Conn.  Funeral services were held from the residence Wednesday at 1 o'clock, Rev. A.R. Burke officiating.  The remains were taken to Sherburne for interment in the West Hill Cemetery.  [Glen Buell Collection, Guernsey Memorial Library, Norwich, NY]
 
 
John Ransford Hamilton
Utica Saturday Globe, May 1912
 
 
John R. Hamilton
1833 - 1912
 
Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At the home of his son, Charles W. Hamilton on Henry street, Sunday occurred the death of John Ransford Hamilton, aged 79.  Mr. Hamilton was the son of Orris and Abigail Hamilton and was born on what is known as the Wood farm north of Norwich, March 20, 1833.  He followed the occupation of farming until nine years ago, when he took up his residence in this village.  He was a man of marked integrity of character, considerate in the conduct of the affairs of his home, wise in his counsel in the First Baptist Church of which as a deacon he became an example of constancy and faithfulness.  He will be missed and mourned by the entire circle of his acquaintances.  Deacon Hamilton is survived by his wife, who was Miss Emily R. Winsor, of Otsego county, and whom he married January 1, 1870; by one son, Charles W. Hamilton, of this village, and four daughters, Mrs. Charles Hart and Mrs. Purley Price, of South Otselic; Mrs. Joseph P. Sigler of Smithburg, Md., and M. Belle Hamilton, of Norwich.  Funeral services were held from the residence on Henry street, Tuesday at 2 o'clock, Rev. J.A. Monk officiating. Burial was made in Mount Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY].  [Glen Buell Collection, Guernsey Memorial Library, Norwich, NY]
 

Monday, December 21, 2015

Marriages (December 21)


Marriage Notices
Chenango Telegraph, April 15, 1863
 
WILLIAMS - DAVIS:  In Bainbridge, April 2, 1863, by Rev. A. Ketchum, Mr. George W. Williams, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Eliza A. Davis, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].
 
BISBEE - BROOKS:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co., NY], March 1st, 1863, Prof. B. Bisbee, of East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Ellen Brooks of South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY].
 
RATHBONE - INGERSOL:  In East Pharsalia, March 1, 1863, by Rev. C.S. Marvin, Mr. Daniel S. Rathbone, to Miss Hellen Ingersol, all of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY].
 

Chenango Union, December 9, 1880

TREMMEL - McDONALD:  In Oxford, Dec. 7th, by Rev. Henry N. Payne, Mr. Frank Tremmel to Miss Maggie E. McDonald, both of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]
 
BENNETT - WILLIAMS:  At the residence of the bride's parents, in Bainbridge, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], Dec. 1st, 1880, by Rev. G.E. Wheeler, Mr. J. Howard Bennett, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Frank M. Williams, daughter of Russell Williams, Esq.
 
HODGES - SHELDON:  In Morris, Nov. 24th, by Rev. W.J. Quincy, Mr. Lemott Hodges, of Columbus [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Ella M. Sheldon, of Morris [Otsego Co., NY].
 
BEEBE - COLE:  In Oneonta, Nov. 20th by Rev. H.H. Allen, Mr. Albert W. Beebe, of Curtisville, Mass., to Miss Ella J. Cole of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].
 
MASON - CLINTON:  At the M.E.Parsonage, in Oxford, Nov. 30th, by Rev. LW.Peck, D.D., Mr. John S. Mason, of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Emma A. Clinton, of German [Chenango Co., NY]
 
Chenango Union, December 30, 1886
 
ELLIOTT - CURNALIA:  In this village, Dec. 15th, by Rev. A.G. Upton, Mr. Edward Elliott, to Miss Ella May Curnalia, all of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].
 
CLARK - KING:  At the residence of the bride's parents in Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 25th, by Rev. J.J. Wedge, Mr. George Clark, to Miss Nettie A. King.
 
STILLMAN - CHURCH:  In Otselic, Dec. 18th, by Perle Fitz Randolph, Mr. George R. Stillman, of Cuyler Hill [Cortland Co., NY], to Miss Olive M. Church, of Otselic [Chenango Co., NY].
 
BANNER - WILLIAMS:  In Bainbridge, Dec. 23d, by Rev. H.B. Cook, Mr. Frank D. Banner, to Miss Nellie Williams, both of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]
 
DIBBLE - HUNT:  In Bainbridge, Dec. 21st, by Rev. HB>Cook, Mr. Morritt A. Dibble, of Franklin [Delaware Co., NY] to Miss Mary B. Hunt, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY].

Obituaries (December 21)

William R. Curtiss
Utica Saturday Globe, April 1912
 
 
William R. Curtiss
1843 - 1912

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Funeral services of the late William R. Curtiss were held from the residence of W.P. Chapman Tuesday afternoon.  About  a fortnight ago, Mr. Curtiss was found upon the floor of his room in New Haven, Conn., in a partial stupor and with a blazing oil heater, which had evidently exploded, on the floor beside him.  The flames were extinguished and the patient removed to the New Haven Hospital as quickly as possible.  The severe burns caused an acute attack of nephritis from which he appeared to rally at first, but later succumbed rapidly, his death occurring Saturday.  The remains were brought to Norwich for interment.  Mr. Curtiss was a native of Norwich where he was born in 1843.  He was one of the first pupils of the old Norwich Academy and, after some bookkeeping  experience in his father's warehouse, pursued a course in the Eastman Business college at Poughkeepsie.  He had just become of age when he entered the service of Fiske & Hatch, in their banking house in New York city, where he remained for a long course of years earning steady promotion and enjoying in full the confidence of his employers.  In 1885 Mr Curtiss retired from active business, for a time returning to Norwich to reside.  In 1889 he married Grace R. Hall.  Two children, Roswell Hall Curtiss, and Amy E. Curtiss, with their mother, survive him.  He leaves a sister, Mrs. W.P. Chapman, of this village.  For the past few years Mr. Curtiss had represented different business houses in banking and other lines.  Although he had met with financial reverses, his courage and grit kept him always in the field, a faithful worker for the welfare of his family.  His personal character was one of purity and integrity.  He was formerly a member and active worker in Plymouth Church, Brooklyn, but at the time of his death was a member of the Congregational Church of this village.  Burial was made in the family plot in Mount Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY], Rev. H.W. Foreman, rector of the Emmanuel Episcopal Church, officiating, in the illness of Rev. Paul Riley Allen, pastor of the Congregational Chruch. 
 
Arthur G. Williams
1870 - 1950
Arthur G. Williams, 8 Weir St., died at about 1:30 a.m., Friday, March 31st, after an illness of two weeks.  Funeral services were held at Carr & Landers Funeral Home at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, April 2nd, with the Rev. Robert P. Kellerman, pastor of the Methodist Church, officiating.  The body was placed in a vault for burial later in Yaleville Cemetery [Guilford, Chenango Co., NY].  Pall bearers were the five sons-in-law:  Jay Badeau, Willis Vaughn, Lawrence Haynes, Wesley Brown and Edson Shafer, and his oldest grandson, Robert Pendlebury.  Mr. Williams was born January 18, 1870, at Afton [Chenango Co., NY], son of George and Jennie (Russel) Williams.  He had been a resident of Sidney [Delaware Co., NY] for 56 years.  At one time he operated a tailor shop on Cartwright ave. and then on Main street near the present postoffice.  He was n the automobile business for a time, and later had charge of the Oneonta warehouse for the State Highway department.  For some years before his death he had been a shoe salesman.  Surviving are his wife, the former Maggie Pettys; six daughters, Mrs. Jay Badeau, Mrs. Lawrence Haynes, and Mrs. Willis Vaughn, Sidney; Mrs. Earl Conamp, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; Mrs. Wesley Brown, Cleveland, Ohio; Mrs. Edson Shafer, Binghamton; a brother, Pratt Williams, Bainbridge; seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
 
Death Notices
Chenango Union, December 9, 1880
 
STEVENS:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on Sunday evening, Dec. 5th, Mr. George F. Stevens, aged 37 years.
 
LAMB:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], of diphtheria, Nov. 4th, Albert R., aged 7 years.  Also, Nov. 11th, Cora M., aged 3 years, children of Ray and Mary J. Lamb.
 
BIRDSALL:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 24th, at the residence of her nephew, Dr. W.D. Purple, Mrs. Ann Birdsall, widow of the late Maurice Birdsall, aged 87 years.
 
HENDEE:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 27th, Mrs. Harriet Hendee, aged 77 years.
 
JOHNSON:  At Wappinger's Falls, Dutchess Co., Dec. 4th, Rev. Charles H. Johnson, aged 48 years, son of Homer Johnson, of East Norwich.
 
HURLBUTT:  At Gilbertsville [Otsego Co., NY], Nov. 8th, Mrs. Elisha Hurlbutt, aged 47 years, sister of E.H. Gadsby, of Norwich.

Sunday, December 20, 2015

Blog Posting listing, December 14-20, 2015

Listing of blog postings for the week of December 14-20, 2015

Marriages
Posted December 14, 2015
Mr. & Mrs. Michael Foy (Norwich, 50th anniversary, 1912)
Marriage Notices - 1881
     Mr. A.M. Schermerhorn - Frances J. Hubbard
     Clarence Hakes - Miss C.E. Fairchild
     Rev. Franklin Pierce - Jennie Burgher
     Edward E. Keith - Cora L. Kelley
     Lewis P. Goss - Abigail Canston

Posted December 17, 2015
Annie L. Hooper - Edwin R. Belden (1912)
Marriage notices - 1885
     Morris Hickey - Bridget Kilroe (Norwich)
     Robert Harrington - Phebe Williams (Oxford)
     Brownel W. Miner - Mary A. Vroman (Plymouth)
     S.F. McFarland, M.D. - Addie Chamberlain (Afton)

Posted December 19, 2015
Blanche May Adams - Charles Morris (1912)
Marriage Notices - 1865
     Justus Bunce - Sally J. Bump
     Edward H. Hartwell - Mavilda Bentley
     Charles Race - Jennie Cady
     James Darrow - Frances S. Padgett
     Calvin C. Sumner - Sabrina L. Palmer
     George M. Baxter - Rosa Ann Cash
 
Obituaries
Posted December 14, 2015
Jacob Salladin (Norwich, Mexico NY, 1912)
Death Notices - 1881
     Clara Sergeant (Norwich)
     William C. Pell (Norwich)
     Horatio Babcock (Columbus)
     Louise McGraw (Earlville)
     Jasper R. Griffing (Syracuse, Norwich)
     Thomas Kershaw (Sherburne)
     Aden D. Eldredge (Indianapolis, Norwich)
     Infant daughter Fraser (Oxford)
     George Perkins (Oxford)

Posted December 16, 2015
Minnie (Beagle) Cahill (Norwich, 1912)
Hannah M. (Jackson) Shepard (Norwich, 1912
Earl B. Bennett (Norwich, Kattellville, 1939)
Walter W. Billings (Norwich, 1941)

Posted December 17, 2015
Charles W. Potter (Norwich, 1912)
Archie C. Bingham (South Edmeston, 1942)
Gladys May (Fowler) Bingham (New Berlin, 1941)
Charlew W. Bishop (Edmeston, 1931)

Posted December 18, 2015
Josephine (Wierengo) Taylor (Norwich, Minneapolis MN, 1912)
Charles Bissell (Norwich, 1925)
Gertrude May Bissell (Norwich, 1942)
Death Notices - 1885
     Mary A. Hunt (Norwich)
     Henry Prime (Norwich)
     Rosa Samson (Norwich)
     Mary V. Smith (Norwich)
     Mrs. John O'Hollaren (Syracuse, Norwich)
     Agrippa Butts (Smithville)
     Darius Benjamin (Lincklaen)
     Hiley Coon (Mt. Upton)
     Jonathan Bush (Guilford)
     Mrs. Israel Bennett (Guilford)
     Edward R. Warren (Coventry)
     Dr. B.H. Aylesworth (Oxford, Iowa City)
     Mattie Santmier (Wilkesbarre, PA, North Pharsalia)

Posted December 19, 2015
Lilah Adelia Breed (Norwich, 1912)
Elizabeth (Zorn) Albert (Guilford, 1911)
Mrs. Tyler Hovey (Guilford, 1911)
Hiram R. Brown (Pharsalia 1911)
Gilbert Cotton (Sherburne, North Norwich, 1911)
Paige Croswell Stilwell (Afton, Sidney, 1948)
Death Notices - 1865
     Henry M. Watkins (Otselic)
     Mary Fowler (Sherburne)
     James Archer (Sherburne)
     LaMott Bissell Tyler (Bainbridge)
     Mary E. Brown (Preston)
     Elbert Eugene Dodge (Oxford)
     Esther Carpenter (Smithville)
     Jerusha Pratt (Smithville)

Posted December 20, 2015
Frank Coy (Norwich, 1912
Lucy Anna (LaFore) Bloom (Norwich, 1942)
Death Notices - 1890
     William Rath (Norwich)
     Jasan I. Belden (Preston
     Lovana Foot (North Norwich)
     Lavinia Tiffany (Oxford, Norwich)
     William N. Holcomb (Bainbridge)
     Alfred W. Corbin (McDonough)
     Lina Williams (Guilford)
     Henry R.  Hall (Greene)
     Silas Hollenbecfk (Greene)
     Eley Coon (Sherburne)
     Abbey Harwood (Sherburne)

 
Miscellaneous
Posted December 16, 2015
Norwich NY Seventy Years Ago,  Reminiscences of George W. Denslow - 1906, Part 3

Posted December 17, 2015
Bainbridge Central High School Class of 1956, Part 1.

Postee December 18, 2015
Norwich NY Seventy Years Ago, Reminiscences of George W. Denslow - 1906, Part 4

Posted December 19, 2015
Norwich NY Police Force - 1912

Posted December 20, 2015
Henry Hewitt Resigns from Norwich National Bank, 1912

Henry Hewitt Resigns - Norwich NY, 1912

Henry Hewitt Resigns From Bank
Assistant Cashier Will Turn Efforts to Other Fields
Utica Saturday Globe, February 1912
 
 
Henry Hewitt

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  After nearly 19 years of service Henry Hewitt severed his connection with the National Bank of Norwich on February 1.  He became teller of the bank under the presidency of the late T.D. Miller, upon whose death, H.D.Newton, who had been cashier, became the president and Mr. Hewitt was made assistant cashier.
 
The National Bank of Norwich ranks among the oldest and strongest banks in this section of the State and during the period of Mr. Hewitt's employment it has become one of the most enterprising and aggressive.  The old, unattractive and cramped building in which the business sof the bank was carried on during its first half century of its history has been remodeled into a handsome, up-to-date and well appointed banking house.  Mr. Hewitt was the oldest employee and during his long service worked early and late for the successful building up of the institution  His resignation is regretted by all connected with the bank who appreciate his faithfulness and by the business men generally who realize his devotion to the welfare of the village which he has served as trustee and president.  In other positions of trust and responsibility in which he has been tried he has never been found wanting.
 
Mr. Hewitt's plans for the future have not been perfected, but he expects to remain in Norwich and devote his time to other liens of work in which he is already interested.
 
Glen Buell Collection, Guernsey Memorial Library, Norwich, NY