Marriages (January 9)

Chadwicks - Stuart

Utica Saturday Globe, September 1912

 

Frank Bradford & Kittie Marian (Stuart) Chadwick

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  On Wednesday afternoon there took place a happy nuptial event at the home of the bride's mother, Mrs. Charles H Stuart, on Elm street, when her daughter, Kittie Marian [Stuart], became the bride of Frank Bradford Chadwick.  On account of the recent death of the bride's father only about a score of immediate relatives and most intimate friends were present.  The home was fittingly prepared for the occasion, being artistically trimmed with clematis, asters, hydrangea, woodbine, ferns and mountain ash. The ceremony was performed beneath an arch from which a white doe descended. The bride was gowned in white batiste and carried bride roses.  Her maid of honor, Miss Ruth M. Scott, of Norwich, wore pink messaline and carried pink roses. The best man was Merton E. Wooster, of Binghamton. The bridal party entered the parlor as the Mendelssohn wedding march was played by John Albert Chadwick, of Binghamton, a younger brother of the groom. The ceremony was performed by Rev. Alfred R. Burke, the bride being given away by J. Cline, a family friend. An abundant wedding feast followed the ceremony. There were numerous gifts in cut glass, silver, china, linen and a considerable sum in cash from the groom's parents and other relatives.  The bride is well known as a musician of exceptional ability. She is a member of the Broad Street M.E. Church and has been a singer in the choir.  She is a member of the Cluga class, the Margaret Battome Circle of King's Daughters and of the Monday Evening Musical Club. For some time she ahs been reception clerk at Hartwick brothers' photo studio. The groom is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Chadwick, of 229 Vestal avenue, Binghamton.  For the past year and a half he has been a stenographer and bookkeeper at the Norwich branch of the Borden Condensed milk Company.  he has been a singer in the Broad Street M.E. Church choir, and is a musician of recognized standing. The last of the month he will join the New York Male Quartet as second bass and violinist and will tour during the entertainment season under the auspices of the empire bureau of Syracuse.  Following a brief wedding journey, Mr. and Mrs. Chadwick will make their home with the bride's mother until spring when they expect to remove to Syracuse to reside. Among the out-of-town guests at the wedding were Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Chadwick and sons, Elbert and Fred, and Merton E. Wooster, of Binghamton.

 

O'Hara - Hartigan

Utica Saturday Globe, September 1912

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Wedding bells rang out right merrily in Norwich Tuesday, when Miss Minnie Conway Hartigan became the bride of Fred H. O'Hara.  The ceremony was celebrated at St. Paul's Church at high noon.  Just as the Angelus heralded the hour, the wedding march announced the approach of the bridal party.  The bride was accompanied by her father and attended by her sister, Miss Jennie C. Hartigan, as maid of honor.  Misses Margaret Burchard and Katherine M. Sullivan, of Norwich, with Nellie O'Hara, of Utica, and Loretta Reilly, of New York, were bridesmaids.  Little 5-Year-old Jennie Conway Sullivan as flower girl scattered pink roses in the path of the bride from the vestry to the altar. The groom was accompanied by Benjamin Malley, of Utica, as best man.  Dr. William E. Hartigan and Warren S. Eaton, of Norwich; Frank Nugent, of Utica, and Harry Honnan, of Elmira, were the ushers. Rev. Edward R. Prendergast officiated and was attended by Masters William C. Sullivan and Raymond O'Hara.  The bride was gowned in white crepe meteor with duchess lace, tulle veil and orange blossoms. The maid of honor wore pale green messaline with overdress of shadow lace, a white picture hat and carried a bouquet of bride roses. The bridesmaids wore pink taffeta with white lace mesh overdress, black velvet hats with plumes and carried shower bouquets of maiden hair ferns.  The church was beautifully decorated with hydrangeas and the home of the bride on Hayes street was elaborately prepared for the reception which followed the ceremony.  In a corner of the parlor the bridal pair stood beneath a wedding bell hung from an arch of evergreens to receive their friends, after which a wedding breakfast was served at the home at the bride's grandmother, Mrs. Michael Conway, adjoining the bride's home. A large and distinguished company of guests were present from out of town. There was a brilliant array of costly and beautiful gifts.  Numerous best wishes attend the happy couple, who left on a brief wedding journey.  A new residence fully furnished awaits their return at 23 Henry street.  The bride is the eldest daughter of Supt. and Mrs. William C. Hartigan. She was born and educated in Norwich and graduated with credit in the musical course of the Norwich High School in the class of 1910.  The groom is the secretary and managing agent of the Norwich Knitting Company, one of the most thriving industries of Norwich.  He is a member of the Norwich Club, the alert Hose Company, the Norwich lodge of Elks, Norwich Council, Knights of Columbus, and is one of our promising business men.

 

Marriage Notices

Chenango American, February 28, 1889

 

RUSSELL - DONLEY:  At Zion Church in Greene, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], on Feb'y 20th, by the Rev. Alexander H. Rogers, Mr. William J Russell, to Miss Ruth E. Donley, both of Greene, N.Y.

 

BURTON - FOOTE:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 21st, by Rev. A. Caldwell, Judson A. Burton, of Coventry, and Minnie A. Foote, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]

 

MARSH - WAGNER:  In Oxford, Feb. 18th, by Rev. A.W. Cooper, Milan B. Marsh of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] and Eliza Wagner of South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY]

 

PARSONS - PHINNEY:  in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 19th by Rev. H.B. Cook, Homer B. Parsons and Lillian E. Phinney, both of Bainbridge.

Obituaries (January 9)

John S. Nedurian

Utica Saturday Globe, September 1912

 

 

John S. Nedurian

1886 - 1912

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  After an illness of more than a year John S. Nedurian died at the Ulster county Hospital in Kingston, August 26, aged 27.  Deceased was born in Egin, Turkey, and in his 11th year, having lost his parents in the Armenian massacre, was received into a missionary orphanage at Bardizag, Turkey, and educated in an American college conducted by Dr. R. Chambers.  In 1904 he graduated from the college and a year later came to America and directly to Norwich.  He had since lived at the home of J. Cline on Henry street.  Soon after locating in Norwich he joined the Broad Street M.E. Church.  He was an earnest Christian, active in all the departments of the church.  He was faithful in his attendance at prayer meeting and until illness interrupted had missed but one such service in six years.  Two years ago he obtained naturalization papers for America citizenship.  He was greatly interested in the effort for an establishment of a county hospital for tuberculosis.  During the period that he was able to work he was employed most of the time by the Norwich Pharmacal Company.  He is survived by a younger brother, Vram, who is pursuing a medical course in the University of Pennsylvania, and by a sister, Miriam, of Battle Creek, Mich., both of whom he assisted during his years of health and by whom he will be sorely missed.  The remains were brought to Norwich from Kingston by Mr. and Mrs. Cline and given a place in their plot in Mount Hope Cemetery.  Funeral services were held on Friday from the Cline residence, Rev. A.R. Burke officiating.  Members of the Wesleyan Brotherhood, in which deceased was a popular and prominent worker, acted as an escort to the cemetery and surrounded the open grave.

 

Lydia G. (Heath) Webster

Northern Christian Advocate, October 3, 1849

September 14, 1811 - September 16, 1849

Mrs. Lydia G., wife of Elias Webster, died in Binghamton, N.Y. [Broome Co.] on Sunday, the 16th inst., aged 38 years.  She was born in Braintree, Vt., and was the daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth Heath, who were among the first Methodists, and whose sainted spirits are now doubtless mingling with those of many of their posterity amidst the glories of the throne.  At the age of eleven, sister Webster experienced religion, in the town of Choconut, Susquehanna Co., Pa., and from that time to the day of her death she was a consistent Christian.  As a wife, mother, sister, neighbor, friend, member of the Church, she was all that could be desired.  The classroom and the prayer circle were sure of her presence, so long as she was able to go abroad.  Wherever she went, she carried a good influence. The sick and afflicted will long remember her.  A protracted consumption occasioned great bodily suffering; but all was borne with unrepining submission.  Heaven seemed to fill her soul with unutterable tranquility.  With hands uplifted, and a countenance radiant with heavenly light, she said repeatedly during the last few hours, "Come Lord Jesus, Come quickly."  Here was just such a death as any one might wish to die.  On the 18th, her remains were taken to a rural cemetery in the very neighborhood where she found the Savior, there to rest in juxta-position with those of her father and mother, four children and other friends, till the morning of the resurrection.  "Devout men and women carried her with great lamentation to the grave."  She loved all, and was universally beloved.   Z.P.   [Buried French & Indian War Cemetery, Choconut, PA, findagrave memorial #37298142]

 

Julia McNitt Leslie

the Norwich Sun, July 1938

 

 

Julia McNitt Leslie*

December 9, 1869 - July 17, 1938

 

Hosts of friends and acquaintances were deeply shocked and saddened to learn Sunday afternoon of the death of Julia McNitt Leslie.  Since Thursday evening, when she and Mr. Leslie were injured by an automobile, she had been in a critical condition in the Chenango Memorial Hospital.  Her death occurred at noon Sunday.  Born in the town of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], the daughter of Chauncey Morgan McNitt and Frances McNitt, Mrs. Leslie had passed the greater part of her life in the community.  She attended the Norwich academy, later graduating from Utica Conservatory, where she studied public speaking and dramatics.  In 1897, she was married to George Leslie, who survives her.  As a girl she united with the Frist Baptist church, and for many years was a teacher in the Sunday school and a member of the choir.  Mrs. Leslie was probably best known as a teacher of public speaking and dramatics in the public schools, and hundreds of former pupils will remember gratefully her friendly interest, as well as the valuable training they received.  From this work she retired in 1931.  Throughout her life Mrs. Leslie served the best interests of the community in which she lived giving freely of her time and talents.  Possessed of a rich contralto voice and always deeply interested in music and dramatics, she took an active part in local musical and theatrical productions, both as participant and director, and frequently served as judge of speaking and dramatic contests in surrounding communities.  It was most fitting that the last evening of her life, prior to the accident, was spent in a rehearsal of church music.  In recent years much of her time was given to the flowers she loved so much and which she shared so freely.  She was a charter member of The Monday Evening Music Club and was at the time of her death, an active member of The L.V.I.A.; the Captain John Harris Chapter of D.A.R., the Garden Club, and the choir of the First Congregational church.  It is perhaps for her kindness and thoughtfulness that Mrs. Leslie will be best remembered, not only by her friends and neighbors, but also by many who knew her less intimately.  In spite of outside interests, her first thought was always of her home and the small family circle. Besides her husband, she is survived by one brother, Charles McNitt, and by several cousins.  Her funeral will be held at her home on Court street at two o'clock Wednesday afternoon, Rev. D.G. DeBoer is to officiate and burial will be made in Mt. Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY].

*Photo courtesy of findagrave.com memorial #10129085

 

Death Notices

Chenango American, Greene, NY, February 28, 1889

 

BOWERS:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 16th, Clarence D [Bowers]. , son of the late Joseph A. Bowers, aged 3 years, 5 months and 13 days.

 

BOWERS:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 17th, Mary E. [Bowers], wife of Owen Bowers, aged 19 years and 6 months.

 

COOPER:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 19th, Marcus Cooper, aged 72 years.

 

LEWIS:  In Garrettsville [Otsego Co., NY], Feb. 11th, Betsey A. [Lewis], wife of Albert H. Lewis, aged 56 years, formerly of Norwich.

 

McCall:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 23d, John H. McCall, aged 69 years.

 

NIGHTINGALE:  In McDonough, Feb. 16th, Mr. John Nightingale.

 

TINKER:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 18th, Frances I. [Tinker], widow of John Tinker, aged 54 years.

 

WOOSTER:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 7th, Goldie [Wooster], daughter of George Wooster, aged 9 years.

 

UTTER:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 20th, suddenly, Mr. Benjamin Utter, aged 27 years.

 

BLANDING:  At Hawleyton [Broome Co., NY], Feb. 25th, Mr. William Blanding, aged 60 years.

 



Obituaries (January 8)

Lee Stebbins

Utica Saturday Globe, August 1912

 

 -

 

Lee Stebbins

1884 - 1912

Earlville [Madison Co., NY]:  the death of Lee Stebbins, cashier of the First National Bank of this place, occurred August 18, following complications resulting from a slight operation performed a week previous at Faxton Hospital, Utica.  Mr. Stebbins, who was born in this village 28 years ago, was the only son of Mr. and Mrs. Lee Stebbins.  He was a graduate of the local High School, class of 1901, and upon completion of his education entered the bank where his energy and integrity soon brought promotion. August 21, 1911, he married Miss Irene R. Wood, who survives.  He also leaves a mother and three sisters, Lillian and Minnie, of Earlville, and Mrs. D.W. Neish, of Norwich. The funeral took place on the first anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Stebbins wedding and interment was made at Norwich [Chenango Co, NY].

Bert L. Graves

Broome Republican, January 13, 1906

While engaged at his work as brakeman on the O.&W. at New Berlin, Friday afternoon, Bert L. Graves, of No. 10 Coomes street, this village [New Berlin, Chenango Co., NY], was fatally injured, his death quickly following the accident.  A freight car was being placed on the siding at New Berlin, when Mr. Graves started to climb to the [top of the car to set the brakes].  As he reached the top of the [ladder the] sloping roof of the station, close to the tops of the kind of cars he was on, struck him on the head and he fell unconscious to the platform of the station.  He was carried to the hotel and an examination disclosed a fracture of the skull at the base, and a severe wound in the right temple.  The body was brought to Norwich Saturday Morning, and taken to his late residence, from where the funeral will be held Monday at one o'clock p.m., Rev. Wilson Treible officiating. Deceased was the son of Arnold Graves, of New Berlin, and formerly resided there.  he was about thirty years old, and married.  he saw several years of service in the Spanish war, and was with the famous Ninth regiment at Peking, China.

South New Berlin Bee, January 1906

Bert Graves, a brakeman employed on the O.&W. railroad, received injuries while at work in the yard here Thursday afternoon, that are almost certain to cause his death.  He has been employed on the road for some time, but was not regularly working on this branch. While a freight car was being placed on the side track next the station building, he started to climb to the top of it to set the brakes.  The ladder was on the side of the car, instead of the end, and the projecting slope of the station roof is within a very few inches of the top of the freight cars now used, when they are on this track.  The moving car came to this dangerous projection just as Graves reached the top of the ladder and the roof struck him on the right side of the head at the temple.  he fell unconscious to the station platform, striking on his back.  He was picked up and carried to the Cottage hotel, where the physicians who were summoned discovered that his skull was fractured at the base, besides the wound on the side of his head.  He is about thirty years of age, married, and lived in Norwich.  He is a son of Arnold Graves of this place and formerly lived here.  For a number of years he wore Uncle Sam's uniform, and served in Cuba and the Philippines and went through the Boxer uprising with the famous Ninth regiment, only to find railroad life more perilous than bullets or bolos.  LATER:  Mr. Graves died from injuries received, at about 2 this (Friday) afternoon. ---Gazette.

 

Mabelle E. (Burlingame) Graves

Utica Saturday Globe, September 1912

 

 

Mabelle E. (Burlingame) Graves

1883 - 1912

 

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  After an illness of several weeks, Mabelle E Graves, widow of Bert L. Graves, died at the home of her brother, Hiram J. Burlingame, on Hale street, recently.  Deceased was the daughter of Elbert and Lucy Burlingame and was born in Norwich December 5, 1883.  May 13, 1902, she married Bert l. Graves, of New Berlin, who met an untimely death two years later, being fatally crushed at the New Berlin station which about his duties of railroad trainman.  Since her husband's death Mrs. Graves had made her home in Norwich, finding employment, when her health would permit at the plant of the Norwich Pharmacal Company, where she was respected and well liked by her associates.  Deceased is survived by her father and two brothers, Hiram and Clifford Burlingame, all residents of Norwich. The funeral services were held Saturday afternoon, Rev. Dr. John L. Ray officiating, and interment being in Mount Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY].

 

Eliza Wager

Northern Christian Advocate, October 3, 1849

Mrs. Eliza Wager died at Millers Corners, town of West Bloomfield, Ontario Co., N.Y., Aug. 17, 1849, aged 37 years.  Sister Wager experienced religion at the early age of 14, and soon united with the M.E. Church.  Having thus early made religion her choice and heavenly wisdom her guide, she was enabled to form her habits by religious principles, and to gain a character that will continue to speak, though she is dead.  From her conversion until deprived of the privilege by indisposition, she gave a clear, practical demonstration of her regard for the ordinances of the house of God.  Her religion admitted of no circumscription, but a clear exhibition of all the graces of the Spirit was uniformly manifested in sickness and in  health.  Her latest moments were, as had long been anticipated by those who knew her, without a cloud. And when her lips refused to say, as they had done, "Most home!  not a cloud intervenes," she raised her head in token of victory--victory compete.    R. Hogobson

Mrs. Maesto Pietro

Broome Republican, January 13, 1906

Mrs. Maestro Pietro, wife of the Italian who was taken to Utica last week under indictment for robbing the mails at Owego, was found dead on the Erie tracks near Griswold street on Saturday morning. ....No details of the fatality could be learned as no one knew of it until the body was found. The coroner's opinion of the matter was that Mrs. Pietro met death from an early morning train, either by design or accident.  The woman escaped from the State hospital, where she has been an inmate for two months, on Friday evening.  From the statements of staff physicians, who viewed the body, it is not doubted that the woman is Mrs. Pietro.  Her absence was noted shortly after nine o'clock on Friday evening and a search of the buildings was at once made.  No trace was found however and the officials learned nothing of her until word came that she had been found dead.  It is thought that she was trying to make her way back to her home in Owego.  It is stated that when Mrs. Pietro became insane over misfortunes.  She made statements which led to the arrest of her husband on the charge of robbing the railroad mail bags at Owego.  Following Pietro's arrest, his wife was placed in the State hospital. The body was taken to Owego for burial.  She is survived by her husband and four children who are living with relatives in Owego.

 

Norwich, 70 years ago, memories of George Denslow in 1906

Seventy Years Ago

Reminiscences of Early Days in Norwich Related by

George W. Denslow, Who was Ninety Years Old on Sept. 19, 1906

Compiled for the Union by Leonard W. Cogswell

Chenango Union, October 4, 1906

 

Perhaps many of the readers of the Union do not realize how much of the comfort and luxury of life has come about within my memory. When I was a boy stoves and furnaces were unknown;  all the cooking and heating being done by means of huge fireplaces with their "pot and trammel hooks."  There was no water in the houses, no turning of faucets and an unlimited supply of hot and cold water running into marble basins and porcelain bathtubs.  Water was obtained from a well by means of a bucket at the end of the old well-sweep, and then later by means of a wooden pump which was thought to be a great invention.  Hay was cut by hand with a scythe and raked by hand-rakes.  Now it is cut, turned, loaded and unloaded by horse-power, one man with two horses doing the work of a dozen men. Grain was reaped by sickle or grain-cradle, bound by hand, threshed by hand-flail with laborious slowness, winnowed by holding grain and chaff up to a strong breeze.  Now it is reaped and bound by horse-power as fast as horses walk.

 

The use of ice for cooling or refrigerating purposes was unknown.  Milk and butter were often hung at the end of a rope down in the big well where it kept sweet and cool.  Sometimes the bucket, in going down for water, would hit the pail, overturn it, and then we would have milk mixed with the water. Boys slept in unheated rooms where often-times the snow drifted onto the bed or pillows in the night, and the temperature of the room was but little higher than that outdoors.  But what did the boy care?  Snuggled in woolen sheets upon soft goose-feathers, he was as warm as toast with his lungs full of pure air.

 

There were no matches, all the light being obtained from the flint-and-steel and tinder, or from a coal from the ashes.  We used to blow ourselves red in the face trying to light a tallow candle from a coal held against the wick.

 

Meat was roasted in a tin kitchen which stood before the fireplace in which the meat revolved on an iron spit slowly before the heat, the gravy being caught at the bottom. These went out of use after stoves were invented, but we are slowly going back to it, for planked steak and shad are now luxurious tidbits in small hotels.

 

There were no fires in churches, and we used to nearly freeze to death in cold weather.  The pews were warmed a little by foot-stoves about a foot square, filled with coals.  But they only warmed the person who sat over them. The church seats were on hinges, and they were turned up when the congregation stood, and then when they sat down, the seats were let down with a slam that used to nearly deafen you.  I suspect the boys sometimes used unnecessary force in slamming down the seats. In those days of sermons an hour or two long, we welcomed any sort of a diversion.

 

What changes I have seen come about in every department of business and social life.  I have seen the railroad and steam engine succeed the stage-coach canal and rail boat, the invention of gas and electric lighting, when, at the turn of a little button, the whole house is flooded with light, the telegraph and telephone supplant the post boy and mail coach, and I expect, if my life is spared for a few more years, that flying machines will be as common as automobiles now are.

 

I came here [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] in 1837 by means of the stage-coach and boat.  A few weeks ago I took my first ride in an automobile through the kindness of the editor of the Union.  It was a new experience.

 

I knew intimately the men who were the leaders in this county in 1838 and since then, and who played such an important part in the development of Norwich and vicinity.  A few of them are Drs. Mitchell and Harris, the three Hubbards, the Pellets, George Rider, Gen. Henry DeForest, the Chapmans, Abel Chandler, the Guernseys, Dea. Ralph Johnson, the Randalls and many others.  Down in Oxford I knew John Tracy, Lieut. Governor in 1832, Gen. Anson Cary, grandfather of Mrs. W.N. Mason, and the Mygatts. They were all of the best type of men, and came from that good old Connecticut stock which furnished so many men to build a beautiful settlement in this wilderness of 1780. Connecticut has played an important part in opening up, settling and developing new country in the last 100 years, and I am glad to have been born in the good Nutmeg state, but I have never regretted coming to Norwich, for I have spent many happy years here.  Here was where I was married in 1842, and where my children were born and have grown up. 

Obituaries (January 7)

Robert B. Ingraham

Utica Saturday Globe, August 1912

 

Robert B. Ingraham

1847 - 1912

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At his home on East Main street, Saturday, occurred the death of Robert B. Ingraham, a well known resident of this village, aged 65.  Deceased suffered a shock three weeks previous to his death and failed gradually until the end.  Mr. Ingraham was a son of Samuel and Harriet Randall Ingraham, and was born in Greene [Chenango Co., NY], August 29, 1847.  He had resided in Norwich most of his life and was for some years employed by the firm of L.&A. Babcock.  During recent years he had been engaged in the teaming and carting business.  January 12, 1869, Mr. Ingraham married Miss Antha Owen, of Oneida, who survives, with one daughter, Mrs. Maude Stafford, and a granddaughter, Mrs. Lena Holliday, both of Cleveland, Ohio.  He also leaves two sisters, Mrs. Mary Merrill, of Montrose, Pa., and Mrs. Frank Butts, of  Norwich. The funeral was held from his late home, Monday afternoon, Rev. Alfred R. Burke officiating, and interment was made in Mount Hope [Norwich, NY].

Polly Taylor

Northern Christian Advocate, October 3, 1849

Miss Polly Taylor, daughter of Stephen and Hannah Taylor, died of consumption, Sunday, July 1st, 1849.  Sister Taylor experienced religion in 1831, and about that time united with the M.E. Church, of which she remained a worthy member until her death.  Much might be said of the consistent life and triumphant death of this much lamented sister, but her record is on high.    David B. Smith  Cleveland, Sept. 18, 1849

Nellie Newton

Sidney Record, June 8, 1895

We regret to announce the death of Miss Nellie, the daughter of Mr. George Newton, who died Wednesday in the 20th year of her age at the home of Mrs. Pratt, where the family resides.  Peritonitis was the cause of death.  The funeral will be held on Friday at 10 o'clock a.m., Rev. T.A. Carlson officiating. The interment will take place in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]

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 '04, Bainbridge Union school, and had a host of friends in Bainbridge, upon whom her untimely death casts a deep and lasting sorrow and the heartfelt sympathy goes out to the bereaved parents in their sad affrication.  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:  Burial in St. Peter's is unmarked.

Jennie Monroe

d. 1 May 1896

Mrs. Jennie Monroe died at her home May 1st, after an illness of about four weeks. Although her death was expected, it was quite a surprise.  The funeral was held form her home Sunday, Rev. D.W. Sweatland officiating.  She leaves a husband and two small children to mourn her loss. They have the sympathy of the entire community.  She will be buried in Binghamton [Broome Co., NY]. 

Lena Beeman

d. 3 May 1896, AE 16y 10m 10d

There is a fresh mound in New Ohio cemetery [Broome Co., NY].  The remains of Lena, the oldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Beeman is buried there.  The funeral was held Tuesday from the home of the bereaved parents, D.W. Sweatland officiating.    Six young ladies who were Lena's intimate friends acted as flower bearers, while four young men acted as bearers.  It did not seem as though she were dead, but only sleeping, as she lay in her beautiful white casket, which was gracefully draped with flowers contributed by friends.  Lena was a kind and affectionate daughter, and was very patient in her last illness.  She seemed to realize that she was near the end of life's journey.  Her age was 16 years and 7 months.  She leaves a father and mother and brother and sister, who have the sympathy of all.

Dearest Lena thou hast left us,

And our loss we deeply feel;

Bur 'tis God that has bereft us,

He can all our sorrows heal.

 

Henry A. Yarter

1904 - 1944

Funeral services for Henry A. Yarter, son of Mrs. Edith Yarter and the late Alexander Yarter, Avery street, were held at the Carr & Landers funeral chapel on Tuesday, December 12, 1944.  Rev George A. Parmelee, pastor of the Sidney Baptist church conducted the services and the body was placed in the Prospect Hill vault to await burial in the spring.  Mr. Yarter resided in Sidney until a few months ago when he went to Albany where he was employed as an expressman on the railroad.  He passed away suddenly on Saturday, December 9.  He was born in North Adams, Mass., July 23, 1904, the oldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Yarter and came to Sidney with his parents several years ago.  He is survived by his wife, his mother and three brothers, Andrew, George and Robert, all of Sidney.  he was a member of the Masons.

 

Hannah Cooper Memorial

A Monument with a Love Story

How the Tragic Death of J. Fenimore Cooper's Sister is Commemorated

New York Tribune, August 17, 1902

Memorial to Hannah Cooper
  located on NYS Route 51
two miles south of Morris, NY*

There stands in the beautiful Butternut Valley, near the Village of Morris, N.Y. [Otsego Co.], a shaft of marble erected more than a century ago [in 1902] under somewhat unusual circumstances.  Around it clusters a love story filled with interest and pathos.  The monument marks the scene of the tragic death of Miss Hannah Cooper, a sister of James Fenimore Cooper.  The story is little told, and the monument has been seen by comparatively few--only those who have strayed from the beaten paths or have chanced to pass it in journeying cross country. The site of the monument is near the famous old Morris Manor, the estates of the Morris family since that section of the State was first visited by the white man.

 

The family of Cooper, the novelist, and the Morris family, although living twenty-five miles apart, were intimate, and the young people visited often back and forth, in Cooperstown and at Morris Manor. These visits brought on an attachment between John Cox Morris, third son of General Jacob Morris, and Hannah Cooper, resulting in an engagement.

 

Miss Cooper was visiting at the home of her betrothed, and on the fatal morning formed one of a merry party of young people out horseback riding.  Her horse was a spirited animal, and it is said that when the party started out old General Morris jokingly remarked to Miss Cooper, "I shall expect to see you ride to glory on that beast yet."

 

When less than a mile away from the Morris home a little dog ran out from a log cabin beside the road and Miss Cooper's horse jumped to one side quickly and threw the young lady to the ground.  She was instantly killed.  Her body as taken to her home in Cooperstown.

 

Probably "the friend" who put up the monument was John Cox Morris.  He afterward became a side judge of the county and practiced law some.  He never married, and died about 1860.  It is said that the iron fence which encloses the monument came from ore found in the hillside nearby. The fence is all hammered out by hand, the pickets being about an inch square and spiked-shape on top; the corner posts are two inches square--all hand made on the forge in a shop near the spot where they now stand.  The monument is about seven feet high and eighteen inches square.  It is surmounted by an urn, and has the following inscription lettered in quaint old style, with the long "s": 

 

"Sacred to the memory of Miss Hannah Cooper, daughter of the Hon'ble William Cooper and Elizabeth, his wife.  In the bloom of youth, in perfect health and surrounded with her virtues, on the 10th day of September, 1800, she was instantly translated from this world, thrown from her horse on the spot on which this monument is erected.  Sensible, gentle, amiable, in life beloved, in death lamented by all who knew her.  Unconscious of her own perfections, she was a stranger to all ambition but that of doing good.  By her death, the tender joys of an affectionate father, the fond expectations of a delighted mother, in an instant were blasted."

 

"Passenger Stop! and for a moment, reflect that neither accomplishments of person, nor great improvements of mind, nor yet greater goodness of heart, can arrest the hand of death.  But she was prepared for that immortality in which she believed, and of which she was worthy." 

 

"To departed worth and excellence this monument is erected, this tribute of affection is inscribed, by a friend, this 1st day of January, 1801."

 

On the front side are the following verses:

"The sculptured marble,

The recording tomb,

Shall mouldering perish

In the hand of time;

Thy weeping friends

Be gathered to their home,

And Memory cease to mark thy shrine."

 

"Some Hoary moss,

Some drooping willowed shade

Or decent sod,

Or still more humble dust,

Shall guard the spot

Where thou are laid

In long

Oblivious silence lost"

 

On the north side are these lines:

 

"For thee, sweet maid!

Resplendent beams of thought,

Wisdom's rich lore,

By Seraphs' hands were given;

Thy spotless soul.

The pure effulgence caught,

it sparkled--was exhaled--

And went to Heaven."

 

"Twas thine

To animate life's swift career,

Mild, modest, artless,

Innocently gay;

Twas thine to fill an higher

Nobler sphere

With sainted spirits

In the realms of day.

 

Thy native worth

With diamond pen enrolled,

Beyond this sculptured

Monuemtn shall live,

And Charity

Of fair ethereal mould

A lasting tribute

To thy memory give."

 

*www.flickr.com, Photo by Kellsboro, Hannah Cooper Memorial

 

 

Obituaries (January 6)

James P. Briggs

Utica Saturday Globe, August 1912

 

 

James P. Briggs

1843 - 1912

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  James P. Briggs, who suffered a fractured skull as the result of falling down a hatchway at the Lackawanna house, August 2, died Sunday afternoon from burns received the previous night when he overturned a lighted lamp.  Since August 7, Mr. Briggs had been cared for at the home of his nephew, Fred M. Woodard, on Rexford street.  He was steadily gaining in strength, but his mind was still affected by the fracture to his skull and it was necessary to watch him constantly.  On one or two previous occasions he had escaped from his room while his attendant was absent for a minute, but had always been discovered before he could do himself harm.  Saturday night, his attendant was overcome with fatigue and fell asleep.  When he awoke at 3:45 he missed his patient and calling the Woodard family all through the house and yard, a slight noise attracted the searchers to the cellar and here Mr. Briggs was found lying on his back and his chest, arms and legs covered with burns. The broken parts of a lamp, and partly burned fragments of the man's shirt, were scattered about, showing that he must have broken the lamp in some manner and set fire to his clothing.  Briggs was carried back to his room and Dr. Wilcox summoned. The burns were dressed and it was thought that the injured man might possibly recover, as he was able to talk a little and gave as a reason for leaving his room that he wished to look "at some machinery in the cellar."  Deceased was 69 years of age and resided on a farm on the South New Berlin road, but he had for several years been engaged in teaming, drawing milk to the Borden's condenser, and was later employed by the Bell Telephone Company.  He is survived by his wife; two sons, Howard and Jason; one daughter, Mildred, and two grandchildren.  He also leaves a brother, Lewis Briggs, of New Lisbon and a sister, Mrs. Frank Smith, of Sherburne. The funeral was held Wednesday, in charge of the Phoebus Lodge, no. 82, F.&A.M. of New Berlin of which the deceased was a member.  Norwich lodge F.&A.M., furnished as escort.  Interment was made in Mt. Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY]

 

Albert W. Strong

Northern Christian Advocate, October 3, 1849

Albert W. Strong, late of East Bloomfield, Ontario Co., N.Y. died at his father's residence if Alexander, Genesee Co., N.Y., Aug. 1, 1849, aged 39 years.  Brother Strong was converted in Jan. 1821, after which he joined the M.E. Church of which he remained a faithful and consistent member until death, and in which, for a number of years, he held the responsible office of Steward, with honor to himself and with profit to the Church.  His Christian career was not of a fitful character, but his course was even, uniform, active and consistent.  His illness, which preyed upon him for about three years, was dyspeptic consumption, but he bore all with much patience and resignation. About five minutes before his departure, his brother asked him how he felt; to which he replied; "My trust is in the lord."  Some of his last words were, "Come Lord Jesus, come."  Thus died the Christian.    Wm. S. Tuttle

 

Grace Pearl (Brower) Cobb

1885 - 1940

Mrs. Grace Pearl Cobb, wife of Arthur Cobb, passed away at her late home, 14 Delaware Square, Thursday morning at 11:40.  The deceased was a life long resident of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] and this vicinity and was 55 years of age. She was held in the highest regard by a large number of friends and her demise will be regretted. She was a member of Calvary Baptist church, and was active in the work of the missionary Society and the Philathea class of the church.  She is survived by her husband, Arthur P. Cobb; three daughters, Mrs. Bessie Rathbun of Oxford, Mrs. Margaret Bowers of South New Berlin and Miss Shirley Cobb of 14 Delaware Square, and a son Chauncey Cobb of this city. She also leaves her father, Hiram Brower, of Norwich and a sister, Mrs. Bessie Latham of Norwich. The body was removed to the Robert J. Fahy Funeral home at 16 North Broad street, where friends may call at any time.  A private prayer service will be held at the Fahy Funeral Home at 11:15 Saturday morning followed by funeral services in the Calvary Baptist church at 11:30 with Rev. R.L. Mathews of the Calvary Baptist church officiating. Burial will be made in the family plot at South Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

 

George Lewis White

born 1872

George Lewis White dropped dead in the kitchen of his home about 7 o'clock Thursday night of a heart attack.  Members of his family found him.  Mr. White had been a resident of White's Pond all his life and in recent years had suffered from a heart condition.  He was born in the town of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] Nov. 25, 1872.  He was a member of the rural fire commissioners of the town of New Berlin and was affiliated also with the Dairymen's League. The deceased was a farmer by occupation.  In 1903 he married Lena Roys of Oxford. She survives with the following children, Mason White of Norwich, Frank White of this city, Arvin White of Ithaca, who is in the army air corps reserve; George of Odessa and Benjamin of Sherburne; Ruth White, Mrs. Arthur Farrell and Sally White of Norwich and Mary White of Binghamton.  He is survived also by a brother, Merton White of Norwich and a sister, Bessie White of Norwich. Two grandchildren, Arthur and Jane Farrell also survive.   Services will be held at the Breese Funeral home at 2 o'clock Sunday afternoon with burial in South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

 

Death Notices

Chenango Telegraph & Chronicle, January 10, 1866

 

HALL:  Nov. 30th, of Typhoid fever and Hemorrhage of the Bowels, T.C. Hall, aged 27 years and 11 months.

 

WELLS:  In Delhi, Ingham C.,  Mich., on Dec. 21st, Gad Wells for many years a resident of this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], aged about 79 years.

 

TREADWAY:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 29th, Miss A.E. Treadway, aged 24 years.

 

CADWELL:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 15th, Winfield S. Cadwell, aged 41 years.

Marriages (January 6)

Marriage Notices

Chenango Telegraph & Chronicle, January 10, 1866

MUNSON - HIGBY:  At the Hotel of Henry Brown, in Afton, by Edgar Garrett, Esq., on new Year's Eve, Mr. Hial Munson, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Jane Higby, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY.]

 

RACE - WOOLARD:  At Binghamton, on the 20th ult., by Rev. Mr. Nadal, W.H. Race, of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], and Miss Lina Woolard, of Washington, D.C.

 

KERCH - ACKLEY:  At East Hamilton [Madison Co., NY] on the 17th ult., by Geo. Balcom, Willard Keech, of New York City, and Miss Francelia E Ackley.

 

LYMAN - UPHAM:  At Sherburne, Jan. 1st, by the Rev. Mr. Hobbs, William A. Lyman, and Miss Almedia Upham, all of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

 

LEWIS - LEWIS:  In Sherburne, Oct. 19, by Rev. James R. Haswell, John M. Lewis, and Mrs. D. Lewis, of Madison [Madison Co., NY].

 

HOWARD - CRANDALL:  In Plymouth, Jan. 3d, by Rev. A.L. York, Hoyt E. Howard, of Greenfield, Mass., and Miss Mira Crandall, of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

 

WILLIAMS - NEWBY:  At the M.E. Parsonage in Afton, on the 23d ult., by Rev. B.H. Brown, Mr. Emory A. Williams, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Sarah F. Newby, of Sanford [Broome Co., NY].

 

AYLESWORTH - STEERE:  By the same, at Wildey's Hotel, in Afton, Dec. 25th, Mr. Ransom Aylesworth, of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY] and Miss Sarah E. Steere, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]

 

DEAN - VINCENT:  By the same, at the M.E. Parsonage, Jan. 3d, Mr. Milton V. Dean, of Columbia Co., and Miss Marietta Vincent, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

 

Chenango Telegraph & Chronicle, June 19, 1867

 

OLNEY - STANBRO:  In Columbus, June 11th, by S.L. Brown, Esq., George W. Olney and Frances Standbro, all of Columbus [Chenango Co., NY].

 

SMITH RHODES:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], June 11th, by Rev. H.W.Lee, George A. Smith, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], and Maggie A. Rhodes, of the former place.

 

TREADWAY - SHEPARDSON:  In Bainbridge June 12th, by Rev. L.B. Yale, Charles B. Treadway and Mary M. Shepardson, all of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]

Marriages (January 5)

Marriage Notices

Chenango Union, May 9, 1895

FARNAM - DOWNE:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], April 27, 1895 by Rev. B.D. Peck, Mr. William Farnam and Miss Etta Downe, all of Norwich.

 

DAVID - HERRICK:  In Afton, May 1, 1895, by Rev. B.B. Carruth, Mr. George D. Davis and Miss Alice M. Herrick, both of Norwich, N.Y. [Chenango Co.]

 

LINDSEY- BARKER:  In Oxford, May 1, 1895, by Rev. C.B. Parsons, Mr. L.V. Lindsey and Miss Lucinda Barker, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]

 

HIBBARD - BROWN:  Near Rockdale [Chenango Co., NY], May 1, 1895, by Rev. W.T. Blair, Mr. Bert Hibbard and Miss Edna Brown.

 

PAUL - GRIDLEY:  In Jasper, N.Y., April 11, 1895, by Rev. Charles McCarthy, Mr. John Paul, of East Troupsburg, N.Y. [Steuben Co.] and Miss Rosina A. Gridley, of Guilford, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY]

 

PRATT - HUYCK:  In Oneonta, April 21, 1895, by Rev. A.E. Wilson, Mr. Eugene Pratt, formerly of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], and Miss Libble Huyck, of Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY]

Obituaries (January 5)

Elizabeth J. Thornton

Utica Saturday Globe, August 1912

 

Elizabeth J. Thornton

1862 - 1912

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At the home of her daughter, Mrs. Edward C. Staats, on Wait street, early Friday morning, Mrs. Elizabeth J. Thornton passed away at the age of 50 years.  Deceased had been a sufferer from paralysis since December and although it was realized that her condition was serious, her death, which occurred suddenly, was a shock to her relatives and friends.  Mrs. Thornton was born in the town of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY] and resided there until a few months ago, when she came to Norwich to make her home with her daughter.  She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. George Burke, of McDonough, and Mrs. E.C. Staats, of Norwich; two sons, George and Floyd Thornton, of North Norwich; two sisters, Mrs. Elmer Johnson, of South Oxford, and Mrs. Henry Burdick, of McDonough and three brothers, Leon Graves, of South Plymouth; Clarence and George Graves, of Tunnel, N.Y.  The funeral services, which were held Monday afternoon, were attended by a large delegation of Fern Leaf Camp, Royal Neighbors and the Ladies Loyal Order of Moose.

Matilda Robinson

Northern Christian Advocate, October 3, 1849

Mrs. Matilda Robinson rests from her labors.  She died of dysentery, on the 15th inst., aged forty-five years.  Seldom are we called upon to record the departure of a more amiable person, or a more devoted Christian.  Converted in early life, and connecting herself with the people of God, she maintained to the last, an unblemished Christian character.  The M.E. Church in this place has lost a most exemplary and worthy member, while the Church triumphant is enriched with a jewel of rare excellence.  Her stricken family, whom she ardently loved and faithfully served, are left desolate and sad.  Yet they are comforted in their sorrow by the reflection that she is

"Asleep in Jesus, blessed sleep

From which none ever wakes to weep."

N.S.DeWitt,  Lanesboro, Sept. 19, 1849

Clifford Sherwood Davis

1897 - 1945

Clifford Sherwood Davis passed away at his home in Mt. Upton, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY] on Thursday, May 17, 1945, following an illness of one year, during which time he was a great sufferer.  Mr Davis was the son of Nelson Davis and Alida (Sherwood) Davis and was born in Gilbertsville [Otsego Co., NY] Dec. 31, 1897.  On June 28, 1933 he was united in marriage with Miss Mabel Morrell of South New Berlin.  He was a resident of Mt. Upton for more than twenty years and had many friends who regret to learn of his death.  he acted as Fire Chief of Mt. Upton until ill health compelled him to resign.  Survivors are s wife, one brother, Warren, of New York City, a sister Mrs. Ona Harrington of New Berlin and his aunt, Mrs. Lettie Arnold of Mt. Upton.  The funeral services were held at the Methodist Chruch on Saturday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock with the Rev. David S. Wolfe, pastor of the church, officiating. Burial was at Mt. Upton.  The large attendance of friends and the many beautiful floral pieces expressed the high regard in which he was held.

 

Frank Arnold

1872 - 1944

Frank Arnold, 72, retired O.&W. conductor of 14 Sheldon street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], died at the wheel of his automobile on Polkville hill just before noon Thursday due to a heart attack, after he had become exhausted when his car became stuck in the highway.  Mrs. Arnold was with her husband when he slumped over the steering wheel as the car started to descend the hill.  James Myers was trying to drive up the hill and the two machines collided almost headon causing some damage to both.  Due to the slippery condition of the road the Arnold machine became stalled as it was ascending the hill this side of the Reinhold Anthony home.  Mr. Arnold shoveled a quantity of ashes on the roadbed and with that he started his car so that he was able to turn around with the intention of returning to Norwich for wheel chains. The car had only moved a few feet on its downward climb when Mr. Arnold suddenly was stricken. As he slumped forward over the steering wheel his foot came down on the accelerator and the car began to move forward.  Mr.  Myers also had experienced difficulty in getting up the hill with the result that both cars collided but with no serious damage.  Sheriff Lelan M. Brookins was called to the scene and later Undersheriff Frank J. Machio arrived with Dr. J.C. Lee, who acted in place of Dr. L.T. Kinney coroner, who was out of the city.  Meanwhile Henry Kimball of the William Breese Company, Norwich funeral directors, was notified, and as Coroner Kinnery was not available, Dr E.F. Gibson, health officer, gave permission to remove the body to the Breese Funeral Home.  Mr. Arnold was born June 9. 1872, and had been an employee of the O.&W. railroad for many years up to the time of his retirement.  He became a trainman in October, 1891, and was promoted to conductor in August, 1907.  He retired Oct. 31, 1941.  Mr. Arnold is surviv3ed by his wife.

 

Death Notices

Chenango Union, May 9, 1895

 

CAHOON:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 4, 1895, Mr. Alonzo S. Cahoon, aged 66 years.

SECOR:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 5, 1895, Mrs. Althea Secor, widow of the late Col. J.D. Secor, of Scranton, Pa., aged 86 years.

BENEDICT:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 5, 1895, Mr. John Benedict, aged 81 years.

POST:  At Woods' Corners [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 7, 1895, infant daughter of Hubert and Martha M. Post.

PARSONS:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., nY], May 1, 1895, Nellie C [Parsons]., daughter of Homer B. Parsons, aged 16 years.

Train Derailment as per NY Times - 1966

Train Jumps Rails Near Binghamton, Kills Two in Home

New York Times, January 9, 1966

Bainbridge, N.Y.:  Mrs. Alice Johnson sat and smoked cigarettes, while a freight train box car encased her in her auto.  Wreckage surrounded her and a man and wife lay dead in their crushed and burning home 150 feet away.

 

 This was the scene last night after more than half of a 64-car Delaware & Hudson freight train  jumped the tracks in the center of this village of 1,700, northeast of Binghamton.  It wrecked two buildings, including the home of Anthony Delello, 73 years old, and his wife, Rose, 68. 

 

Mr. Delello, a former D.&H. guard at the crossing where the wreck occurred, and his wife died in their flaming home, apparently while in the living room.

 

Mrs. Johnson, 28, of Bainbridge, who had been waiting in her auto at the crossing, suffered bruises when a box car smashed the roof of her auto.  She was trapped more than an hour.

 

Investigators and crewmen, sought today in snow and cold to learn the cause of the derailment and clear the tracks.  The wreckage included the cargo of propane, naphtha, furniture, sand, canned foods, bottles, lime, bricks, wood pulp and paper.

 

The tragedy at the Delello home might have been worse.  Two of their nine children live at home, but were out at the time.

 

The cars also ripped away part of the Town Hall, housing the Police and Fire Departments.  Firemen saved their trucks.

 

Officials said the train apparently was traveling about 60 miles an hour--the legal maximum for trains through here.

 

A silent witness to the fiery wreck was the Town Hall clock.  It stopped at 6:35 P.M.

__________________________________________________

Everything Combed for Cause of Wreck

Binghamton Press, February 25, 1966

 In the yards at Colonie, the Delaware & Hudson Railroad is seeking to deduce cause of the disastrous derailment at nearby Bainbridge.  Under scrutiny are an estimated 130 feet of track, reconstructed just as they were on that bitterly cold Jan. 7 night in the Chenango County Community.

Scope of the investigation within sight of the State Capitol was revealed yesterday by Peter Naples of Oneonta, assistant trainmaster of the D&H.  "We picked up the track at the point of derailment and reconstructed it in Colonie in an attempt to pinpoint what happened," he declared.  Included in the trackage, he said, is a switch, which led to a siding at Eldred's Feed mill in Bainbridge.  "We also picked up several pieces of equipment, anything that looked suspicious and could help us in finding the cause," Mr. Naples declared.

The investigation, unique in that it is under way more than 100 miles east of the point of derailment, is being conducted by D&H department heads.  "We haven't come up with the cause as yet, but we're trying," Mr Naples said.  "We're going over everything with a fine tooth comb."  He said he was confident the cause ultimately would be determined, at which time the D&H undoubtedly will make its findings public.

Killed when burning and careening railroad cars crashed into their house and set it aflame were Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Delello, Sr., of 8 West Main Street, Bainbridge.  In all 39 [sic] cars of the northbound train were derailed, extensively damaging the Bainbridge Firehouse, the police station, other buildings and several cars parked beside the right-of-way.  Falling freight cars also flattened an auto, operated by Mrs. Leroy (Alice) Johnson, 28, which was waiting at the village crossing for the train to pass.  Mrs. Johnson was pinned to the steering wheel for more than an hour before she could be removed by firemen and volunteers.

The D&H Trainmaster Gilbert Gillette of Scranton, Mr. Naples and Hubert Loucks of Oneonta RD, division general foreman, inspected the wreckage shortly after the derailment.  Mr Gillette, who formerly was stationed in Oneonta, was unable to give an estimate of the loss, but emphasized that is would prove to be "an expensive wreck."  "This is probably the biggest wreck the D&H has ever had in this area," he declared.  Calling it "a humdinger," the trainmaster compared the Bainbridge derailment with the D&H wreck in the spring of 1963 at Starrucca, Pa.

Crewmen of the ill-fated train included George Vincent of Oneonta, engineer; George Laubmeier of Morris, fireman; Ben Hunt of Oneonta, head trainman; and Seymour Davis of Oneonta, swingman.

Last week the D&H announced contributions totaling $1,500 to Bainbridge fire and police agencies in appreciation of their assistance during the tragedy.

__________________________________________________

Bainbridge Still Rebuilding

Binghamton Press, July 20, 1966

The Chenango County community of Bainbridge is continuing its restoration from an early January train derailment that caused several thousand dollars worth of damage, destroyed buildings and took two lives.

Repairs on the Bainbridge Police Department building have begun.  One room of the building still remains boarded up, the last mute evidence of a night most village residents will not forget.

The repairs, being done by Frank L. Lewis & Sons, will include the replacement of a outside wall of a room that was formerly used as a communications and record room.  At this time the door to the room remains closed. The room is used only for storage.  Inside, cracked and chipped bricks and some pieces of ragged plaster remain from the fateful Friday evening.

Police Chief William Payne, whose offices are now located along with the communications and record center just to the east of the heavily damaged room, looked back on the fateful evening and said, "It was the first time I can remember that no one was in that room."  The room was vacant when one of the derailed box cars came smashing into it.

Village workmen were still patching with asphalt, sections of what were once curbing around the old depot that is now used as a police station.  Workmen will make other renovations to the building, located on the north side of the tracks, while they are at it.  These will include the removing of several large doors used when the railroad occupied the building. The space will be filled in with cinder blocks.

The remains of the two-story frame house at 8 West Main Street have long since been removed.  It was this home that took the brunt of the derailment. Anthony Delello, 73, and his wife, Rose, 68, died in the crash and fire than ensued.

The heavily damaged fire station was razed earlier this month and last week the Bainbridge fire commissioners let bids for the construction of the new fire station.  The station, to be located on the site of the old two-story building will be completed within 120 days.  Architects reported that the total construction cost, $124,187, was somewhat less than their original estimates. Contracts were let to Frank Lewis & Sons, general contracting, $88,900, John J. Henehan Co., heating and ventilating; $14,000, John J. Henehan Co., Plumbing, $9,870, and Miske Electric inc., electrical, $10,477.

Bainbridge's forced urban renewal moves slowly, but surely, while residents still cast fleeting glances as Delaware & Hudson Railroad trains continue to move through the center of the village.  Chief Payne, looking out of his office at the then empty but still nearby tracks, said, "The people seem to think the trains are a lot longer these days, but they aren't.  They just move at about half the speed they did before the accident." 


 

 

 

Obituaries (January 4)

Foster P. Sayles

Utica Saturday Globe, August 1912

 

 

Foster P. Sayles

1835 - 1912

At his home in East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], August 18, occurred the death of Foster P. Sayles, one of the best known residents of that section, aged 77.  Deceased was born June 1, 1835, near this village, and was a son of William and Anna Sayles.  He resided here [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] until about 30 years ago, when he took up his residence in East Pharsalia.  Mr. Sayles served with credit during the civil war, as a member of Company H, Seventeenth Regiment, New York Volunteers, and was a member of Smith Post, G.A.R.  During late years he was known as an expert hunter and frequently indulged in the sport of hunting and fishing.  He was a man well liked by all who knew him.  His wife, who was Mary Monroe, daughter of Samuel Monroe, survives him.  He also leaves a number of nephews and nieces. The funeral was held from his late home, Wednesday, Rev. William E. Webster officiating.  Burial was made at Heady's Corners.

 

Dorcas Kingsley

Northern Christian Advocate, October 3, 1849

Miss Dorcas Kingsley died from the effects of a cancer, in Otisco [Onondaga Co., NY], Sept. 5, aged forty-one years.  Though her disease had been of some years' standing, yet she was confined to her bed only a few weeks; during which time her suffering was extreme.  She bore her sufferings with exemplary patience, always trusting in the strength of the Savior for support.  Many years since she became a member of the M.E. Church, and for the last few years of her earthly pilgrimage, her life was a practical proof of the doctrine of holiness.  Her death was peaceful and triumphant.   Z.D. Paddock, Cardiff, Sept. 24, 1849.

 

Caroline A. Scott

Afton Enterprise, December 10, 1914

Mrs. Caroline A. Scott, widow of the late Benedict Scott, died at her home on the East side of the river, a short distance North of Afton, on Tuesday evening, December 1, 1914 at seven o'clock, after a lingering and severe illness, at the age of seventy-five years.  Mrs. Scott was a faithful and devout Christian, a member of the Presbyterian church, and was fully prepared when the call came to her to enter into rest.  Her maiden name was Rusli, she and her husband were both born in Switzerland coming to America when she was 20 years of age.  They lived near Deposit, N.Y., until the death of Mr. Scott which occurred fourteen years ago, soon after which she came to Afton, where she and her devoted daughter, Miss Lucy have since resided together, their home recently being in the part of the house of her son, Frank.  Mrs. Scott has the remarkable record as a mother, of having borne and reared to a useful manhood and womanhood, nine children, three sons and six daughters, all of whom are married except one, and all of whom survive her and all of whom were present at her bedside when she passed away and present at her funeral.  There are also a number of grandchildren.  The names of her children are as follows:  Frank, Carl and Benedict Scott, Mrs. Alice Curtis, Mrs. Leua McCarter, Mrs. Nettie Gifford, Mrs. Flora Daniels, Mrs. Rose Macauley, and miss Lucy M. Scott.  The funeral service was held at the home on Friday afternoon, December 4th, and was conducted by her pastor, Dr. John J. Francis of the Afton Presbyterian church, assisted by Rev. C.O. Fuller pastor of the Baptist church, after which she was tenderly laid beside her husband in Glenwood cemetery [Afton, Chenango Co., NY].

 

Adaliza Scott

Bainbridge Republican, November 27, 1875

Died on Saturday, Nov. 20th, 1875, Adaliza, wife of Treat M. Scott.  Mrs. Scott was born Sept. 6th, 1827, in the town of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] and here she died.  In 1849 she was married and has been a faithful wife and fond mother. She has long been an invalid, denied the privileges of mingling in society.  On this account she passed a retired life, but a patient one.  Home was her province and here her good qualities were known.  In early life she professed her faith in the Savior of sinners, uniting with the Presbyterian Church of this place, and we trust, with her faith resting in that Savior she departed from this world of sin and of sorrow. The silver cord is loosed, the golden band is broken, and her spirit has gone to God who gave it. We trust to hear him say to her, "Enter thou into thy rest."

 

Prudence Ruth Scott

Bainbridge Republican, October 21, 1909

Monday morning at 6 o'clock, occurred the death of Prudence Ruth Scott, aged 15 years, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hubert Scott of Newton Hollow [Chenango Co., NY].  Her death was due to typhoid fever, after an illness of nearly three weeks.  There was a short private service held Wednesday, at 1 o'clock at the house, after which service was held at the North Afton Methodist church, Rev. I.J. Smith of Afton officiating.  Burial was in the North Afton cemetery.

 

Earl F. Scott

Afton Enterprise, December 13, 1900

Earl F. Scott, infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Scott, died quite suddenly on Tuesday of last week of infantile paralysis. The eleven weeks of the little one's life were filled with suffering, yet there seemed latterly every promise of better health and growth. The funeral was held on Friday at 11 o'clock, conducted by Rev. H.C. Merrill.

 

Post Listing December 28, 2015 - January 3, 2016

Post listings for the week of December 28, 2015 to January 3, 2016.

Marriages

Posted December 29, 2015

Marriage Notices 1878

     Frank J. Barre - Bertha B. Greene

     Hiram H. Tucker - Jennie E.Crumb

     John Norton - Estelle Gray

     Cornelius Whitbeck - Mrs. David L. Haight

     Orello E. Frink - Etta Peckham

     Henry Howes - M. Delphine Baker

     George Merritt - Lovina Nhare

     Harry Nichols - Mary Burnap

     F.A. Whiting - Dora G. Butler

     Charles Utter - Anna Parsons

     Lewis H. Tyrell, Jr. - Mildred E. Jones

Posted December 31, 2015
Marriage Notices
     William H. Pattengill - Nellie Candee (1874)
     Charles Dickinson - Lizzie Edler (1874)
     William A. Snyder - Maria L. Holcomb (1874)
     Homer VanCott - Anna Tyler (1874)
     Charles F Nolton - Mary Pattengill (1874)
     Frederick Hill Stambro - Jennie E. Gregory (1890)
     James  N. Roys - Edith W Potter (1890)
    Henry J. merritt - Cora Gifford (1890)
     Wallace G. Swan - Florence A. Van Wagner (1890)
     Walter S Whipple - Cora B Wilson (1890)

Posted January 3, 2016
Marriage Notices - 1867
     Lewis D. Blackman - Lucy Rowland
     S.T. Church - A Blanchard
     DeWitt Case - Irene Foote
     Philander Parker - Phebe Bennett
     Leonard D Philips - Mary I. Combs
     B.F. Sheldon - Hattie A Faucett
     Albert W. Padgett - Hattie R. Bennett
     Norman C. Booth - Lovisa Bush
     Calvin Day - E.E. Gilbert
     Orris Lothridge - Ann Eliza Parsons
     H.C. Lewis - Emma C. Norton


 

Obituaries

Posted December 28, 2015

E. Birney Crandall (Norwich, 1912)

Helen Lincklaen (Cazenovia, 1847)

Nathaniel R. Hyer (Guilford, 1847)

Abijah Cornwell, Sr. (Guilford, 1847)

Death Notices - 1847

     Cornelius William Hunt (Potsdam)

     George Porter Nelson (Kingston)

Posted December 29, 2015
Henry P. Macksey (Norwich, Newark, NJ, 1912)
Henry Welch (Watertown, 1847)
Emeline Minerva Lobdell (Victor, 1847)
Helen M. (Parsons) Sweet (Guilford, Afton, 1919)
Death Notices - 1892
     Mabel G. Stead (Guilford)
     Mrs. Nelson Parsons (Bainbridge)
     Chauncey Francisco (Guilford)

Posted December 30, 2015
David H. Knapp (Norwich, Asbury Park, NJ, 1912)
Fanny Huckins (Watertown, 1847)
Henry Clayton Watson (Franklinville, 1847)
Eleanor Van Etten (Cayuta, 1847)
Abraham Barnes (Cayuta, 1847)
Horace Holcomb (Coventryville, 1904)
Death Notices - 1852
     William A. Robinson (Norwich)
     Ellen MIner (Preston)
     Lois Bixby (Bainbridge)
     Leroy E. Holcomb (Geneva, Norwich)
     Mr. R.S. King (Sherburne)
     Euncie E. Warriner (Preston)

Posted December 31, 2015
Charles H. Stuard (Norwich, Horseheads, 1912)
William Bown (Elkland, PA, 1849)
Catharine Bell Diefendorf (FreyBush, 1849)
Minnie May (Allen) Baldwin (Hubbardsville, Utica, 1946
Death Notices - 1886
     Kathleen Purdy Hall
     Sally Davis (Norwich)
     Dyer D. Bullock (North Norwich, Bainbridge)
     Mrs. Alfred Willcox (Earlville)
     Lorenzo D. Sutton (Lincklaen)
     Eunice Grover (Afton)
     Curtis C. Cannon (Bainbridge)
     Gilbert Bowers (Oxford)
     Grover Ives (Guilford)
     David Nelson (Smithville)
     Oliver P. Rose (Smithville)
     Asahel Peck (Greene)
     William D. Rice (Greene)
     Alvin Gray (Barker, Greene)
     Jennie Brown (St. Louis MO, North Pharsalia)

Posted January 1, 2016
Nancy (Avery) Ferry (Norwich, Oil City, PA, 1912)
Nathan Geer (Plymouth, 1849)
Francis Marion Hammond (Evans 1849)
Joseph James (Vienna 1849)
Ada A (Bisbe) Albright (Eaton 1946

Posted January 2, 2016
David Wicks (Norwich, 1912)
Eliza Kerr (Ira, 1849)
Daniel D. Van Allen (Chicago, IL, 1849)
Sally Wright (Evans, 1849)
Maye Turner Doolittle (Norwich, Albion, 1901)
Harvey Woods (Norwich, Guilford, 1901)
Alfred Woods (Norwich, 1932)

Posted January 3, 2016
Berthier  J. Mathewson (Norwich, 1912)
Grace M. (Baldwin) Bliven (Preston, 1912)
Rev. James Barnard (Rome, Lima, 1849)
Jane A. Hamlin (Bainbridge, 1932)
John Jacobson (Bainbridge, 1932)
 



 

Miscellaneous

Posted December 30, 2015

Bainbridge High School Class of 1956, Senior Portraits - Part 3

Posted December 31, 2015
Wayne Benedict becomes Norwich High School Principle, 1912

Posted January 1, 2016
Letter from England, 1944
Norwich NY Seventy Years Ago, reminiscences of George W. Denslow - 1906

Posted January 2, 2016
Centennial Observed by Congrgational Church at Guilford, NY - 1907

Posted January 3, 2016
Train Runs Wild in Bainbridge, NY, January 1966


Bainbridge NY Train Wreck - January 1966

Train Runs Wild in Bainbridge

The Sidney Record & Bainbridge News, January 12, 1966

 

 

Overhead view of Train Derailment, Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY

 

Cars on top of each other created a horrible mess at the West Main Street crossing.  The photograph was taken looking toward Railroad Avenue  (R-N photo)

Delello  home at 8 West Main Street, Bainbridge, was shattered by the railroad cars which smashed through the house and the home soon caught fire.  Firemen (center) are attempting to contain the blaze.  The fire station, which was once the Village Hall, is on the right  (R-N photo)

Mrs. Alice Johnson was practically unable to move when she was pinned in this automobile by the freight car shown on top of her vehicle.  Dexheimers of Guilford, a firm that specialized in moving houses, was called to the scene and they raised the freight car so that the automobile could be freed.  Workers of the Bainbridge emergency Squad are shown on the right.  Mrs. Johnson was pinned in the car for 2 hours and 5 minutes, but miraculously she suffered only minor injuries.  (R-N Photo)

 

Flammable Cargo was contained in many of the railroad freight cars, also many of the cars were constructed of wood and were themselves flammable.  A car containing newsprint created a special hazard when winds carried the sparks over the roofs of many homes.

 

Extracts from an article written shortly following the derailment

(Sidney Record & Bainbridge News, January 12, 1966)

 

Bainbridge:  Tragedy struck in the Village of Bainbridge on Friday evening at 6:35 when a northbound D&H freight train jumped the tracks in the heart of Bainbridge.  A total of 42 cars were derailed from the 64-car freight train.

 

The freight cars smashed through the home of Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Delello, Sr., at 8 West Main Street and the couple was killed instantly....The Delello home was completely smashed apart. The Emergency Squad and others arrived on the scene almost immediately. Within a very few minutes a serious fire was raging both in the Delello home and in the wreckage of the train.

 

Mrs. Alice Johnson was pinned in her car--she had been waiting for the train to clear the crossing and when the derailment occurred one of the freight cars landed on top of her automobile.  At first it appeared that she was almost certainly crushed to death in the car.  Dexheimer's house moving crew was summoned and when they arrived they were able to jack up the freight car so the automobile could be moved and Mrs. Johnson could be released.....

 

The freight cars, evidently with one car riding on top of another, crashed through the Bainbridge Fire Station and inflicted severe damage on the part of the building used for storage of fire department vehicles....

 

The worst of the fire was in the Delello house and the wrecked freight cars in that area behind the fire house. Beams and debris were moved to enable the firemen to back the fire trucks out of the station.  Their fire fighting task was made especially difficult because water was in short supply--the electricity was out at the pump stations for the first 35 minutes of the fire and the only water pressure available was from the reservoirs.  In addition the water standpipe in the fire station had been knocked out by the freight cars.

 

Firemen immediately concentrated their efforts on the dangerous task of keeping two LP gas tanks cool.  Each of those large tanks contained 33,000 gallons of liquefied propane gas and the danger of explosion was a constant possibility.  The firemen directed their water onto these tanks in an effort to keep them from exploding....Thomas F. Curry, supervisor of the U.S. Bureau of Mines office in Albany, was summoned to help in dealing with possible explosion threats. He stated that through proper handling of the emergency the danger of explosion had been held to a minimum. An explosion of these LP gas tanks could have damaged an area of one-half mile radius.

 

A tank car containing 20,000 gallons of naphtha leaked and fed the fire.  Some of this naphtha was washed away by the water and found its way into the basements of Jerry's Inn and Demeree's Chevrolet Sales.  The United States Bureau of Mines furnished special meters which were used to measure to threat of explosion from naphtha fumes in these buildings....

 

The Bainbridge firemen battled the fire all Friday night and all day Saturday until 7:00 p.m. when they pulled their last hose line.  A standby detail was maintained for a longer time.  Many of the firemen fought the fire for 18 hours straight without rest....

 

F.A. (Mike) Demeree said he was in the automotive showroom when he herd the crash.  "I dashed into the street and when I saw the train wreck it looked like we might have lost our fire department.  I telephoned the Sidney Fire Department immediately."  Mrs. Reno Smith called the Sidney Fire Department and the Afton Fire Department.  She also telephoned individual firemen (The Bainbridge siren was destroyed).  Oneonta and Norwich helped by supplying additional fire fighting foam and other supplies and some of their men came to Bainbridge to help fight the blaze.

 

Firemen courageously battled the flames that lapped the sides of the LP gas tankers.  These 30,000 gallon tankers could have had the explosive force of small bombs. The Bainbridge firemen knew the risks they were taking by standing in close to those tanks to get their water where it could cool the tanks and reduce the danger of explosion.  The knowledge that these firemen had of how to deal with the LP explosion hazard, and their courage in fighting this dangerous fire, may have saved the village of Bainbridge from a true disaster.....