Saturday, January 23, 2016

Obituaries (January 23)

Rev. John B. Cook
Utica Saturday Globe, January 1907
 
 
Rev. John B. Cook
1861 - 1906

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Rev. John B Cook, who died recently at Colorado City, where he went some two months ago in search of relief from asthma from which he had been a sufferer for years, was born in Norwich and was educated in the schools of this place.  After he entered the Methodist ministry Mr. Cook began his first pastorate at Morris in 1886.  In 1888 he was sent to Whitney Point, and was there for two years.  He then served one year at Walton and for the following three years was at Sidney.  In 1894 he began a five years' pastorate at Newark Valley, at the end of which time he went to Jermyn, where he remained for one year.  In 1900 he began his pastorate at the High Street Church in Binghamton.  He left his pastorate at Owego to go to Colorado for a second time within a few years to secure freedom from his sufferings, having been assigned to a church in Colorado City.  Deceased was twice married, his first wife being Miss Nettie Hoag, of Norwich, who died about six weeks after the marriage.  About the time that he took up his pastorate in Morris, Mr. Cook married Minnie Palmatier, of that place, who survives him, together with a son, John, and two daughters, Helen and Olive.  One sister, Mrs. F. R. Brown, of Milwaukee, Wis., also survives.  Mrs. Sarah Adams and Mrs. Fannie F. Sheff, of Norwich are step-sisters of the deceased and Blin Buell, of King's settlement, is a step-brother.  The funeral was held at Owego, Friday afternoon of last week, Rev. Mr. Dresser, the presiding elder, officiated at the services in the First M.E Chruch.  Many preachers and Masons were present, Mr. Cook being a member of that fraternity.  Prayer was offered by Rev. N.B. Ripley, of Binghamton, who was a classmate of Mr Cook at the Cazenovia Seminary.  The Scripture lesson was read by Rev. C. H. Newing of Lestershire, and the resolutions adopted by the ministerial Association of Binghamton were read by Rev. C.M. Olmstead.  The principal of the High School of Newark Valley read resolutions adopted by the Methodist church at that place, and Prof. Tilbury, a former principal of the Owego High School, paid his tribute.  Rev. Mr. Benedict, from the conference at Montrose, gave an address, followed by an address by Rev. Dr. A.W. Hayes, of Binghamton. The body was taken to Newark Valley, where it lay in state over night.  Services were held from the church Saturday morning and the burial was at 10 o'clock at Newark Valley [Tioga Co., NY].
 
Owego Daily Record, December 31, 1906
Died at Colorado City, Col., Sunday, Dec. 30, 1906, Rev. John B. Cook, aged 45 years.  This brief announcement brings genuine grief and sorrow to many hearts in Owego, in Newark Valley and in many other places where his lines, as pastor of M.E. Churches in the Wyoming conference, have fallen.  He came to Owego from Canon City, Col. in July, 1905, exchanging with Rev. A.F. Chaffee D.D., who had been returned the April previous, after one year in Owego.  From the first, Mr. Cook was popular in Owego, not simply among the members of his church and congregation, but with his brother pastors and the people of Owego.  His failing health caused his departure from Binghamton in 1903 to Colorado, and it was hoped when he returned east that the benefit he had received would prove permanent and that the remainder of a life, that promised still greater usefulness, might be passed in this vicinity.  Last summer the ravages of asthma became so marked that he accompanied Rev. R.A. Vose on a trip to Colorado and they both returned, apparently improved.  Mr. Cook grew worse again and last fall he returned to Colorado, when his condition continued such that it was not deemed expedient or safe for him to return east, even for a temporary stay, and he resigned his pastorate here Dec. 15 to accept the pastorate of the M.E. church in Colorado City, a suburb of Colorado Springs, Col.  The end came on Sunday, the first day that his successor here, Rev. Benjamin Copeland from Buffalo, occupied the pulpit so recently vacated by Mr. Cook.  It is a sad event for the family.  Mrs. Cook and their young daughter, Olive, were with him in Colorado City and the elder daughter, Helen, remained in Owego.  The son, John, a student in Wyoming seminary, Kingston, Pa., is passing his holiday vacation with friends in Newark Valley. Arrangements had been made for C.H. Emens to pack and ship the household goods to Colorado City, but this has been abandoned. The body left Colorado City on the Santa Fe, this morning at 10:30 and should reach Owego about Thursday for funeral and burial.  His Wyoming conference pastoral records is given as Morris, 1886-7, Whitney Point, '88-9; Dallas, '90; Sidney, '91-3; Newark Valley, '94-8; Jermyn, '99; High street Binghamton, 1900-3, (in Canon City, Col., '04-5) and pastor in Owego from July 1905 to Dec. 15, '06.  Rev. Mr. Cook was an active member of the Masonic fraternity, having been initiated in Newark Valley Lodge, no. 614, during his pastorate in that place.  He affiliated with Friendship lodge, no. 153, of Owego, a year ago and has served the lodge as chaplain during the year. A telegram received today by the officers of Friendship lodge from the Masonic officials of Colorado Springs announced that a Masonic burial would be desired.

Milton Rainey
Northern Christian Advocate, November 19, 1851
Milton Rainey, son of James Rainey, deceased, of the town of Crawford, Orange county, N.Y., died of fever, October 15, 1851, at his residence in Guilford, Chenango county, N.Y., aged 39 years.  Brother Rainey experienced religion and joined the M.E. Church while living with his father, in 1838, under the labors of Brother Valentine Buck.  His attachment to the Church of his choice cost him a sacrifice that but few have to make, and we fear too few would be willing to suffer.  His father, observing his growing love for the Methodists, made his endeavors to dissuade him from them; but to no effect. As the last resort, and settled in his purpose, he called his son: "Milton," said the old man, "I have a proposition to make to you."  "Well, Father, what have you to propose?" said Milton.  "It is, that you leave the Methodists, and join the Church to which I belong, and I will make you the second richest son in the town; or, persist in your present course and relation to the M.E. Church, and be disinherited."  Like a wise philosopher, and a man of God, he chose the latter, and ever after remained a faithful and worthy brother in the Church of God.  He was often asked if he did not lament that he had not accepted his father's proposals.  He invariably replied, no.  Without a father's roof, or a parent's affections and prayers, he was driven out upon the cold charities of the world; but he had a constant demonstration of the promise, "I will be with thee."  In the year 1840, he removed to Guilford, and immediately united himself with the Church, of which he became leader, for six years.  His strictly upright character and religious life won for him an enviable position, in society, and endeared him to a large circle of friends.  Brother Rainey was ready for the eventual hour of dissolution.  When approached the cold Jordan of death, he could say, "all is clear--Christ is precious."  We feel truly that a good man is fallen.  He leaves a wife and two children, to mourn his loss; and may heaven answer the prayers of the Church, for grace to sustain, comfort and preserve them, until the coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.     F.D. Higgins, Guilford, October 29, 1851

Margaret (Keiser) Stadler
Utica Saturday Globe, January 1907
 
 
Margaret (Keiser) Stadler
1885 - 1907
 
The recent death of Mrs. Margaret Keiser Stadler, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], which occurred at the home of her mother, Mrs. Mary Keiser, 188 South street, this city [Utica, Oneida Co., NY], caused sincere sorrow among a wide circle of friends.  Deceased was the wife of Charles Stadler, of Norwich, and had come to Utica, December 24, to visit her mother.  She had been ill but a short time.  In both Norwich and Utica Mrs. Stadler was highly esteemed and her demise is genuinely mourned.  Besides her husband and mother, she is survived by five brothers, William, Arthur, Charles, Fred and Louis Keiser; five sisters, Misses Rosa and Emma Keiser, Mrs. Frank Hoffman and Mrs. Arthur Leach ,of Utica, and Mrs. Andrew Cooney, of Locust Grove.

Bernice Gertrude Bowers
1913-1935
Bernice Gertrude Bowers, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Roy Bowers of 92 Mitchell street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], died at Faxton Hospital, Utica, about 11 o'clock Wednesday morning, following an operation.  The deceased was born in Columbus Center [Chenango Co., NY] Dec. 31, 1913, but had lived in Norwich about 13 years.  She attended the Norwich public schools and was held in high regard by her school associates.  She had been in ill  health for about five years.  She had consulted New York specialists on two occasions, and about two weeks ago was taken to Faxton Hospital, where an operation was performed for a tumor of the intestines.  Apparently recovering from the effects of the operation her condition took a turn for the worse, her demise occurring Wednesday.  Besides her parents, there survive a sister, Mildred, 17.  Funeral services will be held from the late residence at 92 Mitchell street at 2 o'clock Saturday afternoon, Rev. Scott D. Clarke, officiating, with burial in Mt. Hope [Norwich,  NY].--Norwich Sun

George H. Boyd
1848 - 1918
George H. Boyd of 28 Division St. [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] died very suddenly shortly before noon on Thursday, aged 69 years.  Funeral services will be held at 3 by the clock Sunday afternoon.  Rev. H.R. MacMillan will officiate and interment will be made in Mt. Hope cemetery [Norwich, NY].  Mr. Boyd had been a resident of this city for the past 15 years, and of the town of Norwich since young manhood.  he was born in East Masonville, Delaware county, Dec. 28, 1848, the son of William and Fannie Boyd and was the last surviving member of that family.  In 1879 he united in marriage to S. Caroline Bennett of Norwich who with their only daughter, Mrs. Pearl Boyd Mein, wife of William J. Mein survive.  For many years Mr. Boyd tilled the soil on his farm at East Norwich.  Living close to nature he lived close to God also, and was a consistent member of the First Baptist church, serving as a deacon for 16 years past and having recently been elected a deacon for life.  He was wholly unselfish and thoughtful of others, working and doing often far beyond physical strength to help bear another's burden  He was on his way to call upon a sick friend when death walked by his side and he was welcomed home by the great Friend.  Mr. Boyd's death comes as a shock to a wide circle of friends who join with his household in sorrowing after him.

Clifton J. Bresee
1899 - 1927
The body of Clifton J. Bresee, aged 28 years, whose death occurred in the federal hospital at Tupper Lake Sunday morning, will arrive in this city at 6:30 Monday night.  The remains will be taken to the family home at Holmesville [Chenango Co., NY] by the William Breese Company.  Deceased was the son of  Mr. and Mrs. Floyd L. Bresee of Holmesville, and was a veteran of the World War, having served twenty-six months in the Untied States navy.  Death followed an illness that had been critical for the past year. The late Mr. Bresee was a member of the Methodist church at South New Berlin.  Funeral services are to be held Wednesday afternoon at 1 o'clock with burial at Elk Creek [Maryland, Otsego Co., NY].  Besides the bereaved parents of the young man, there survive two sisters, Mrs. Harold Kennedy of Wolcott and Miss Ruth Bresee of Holmesville; also a brother, Harold Bresee, and a grandfather, Julian Bresee, both of Holmesville--Norwich Sun

Friday, January 22, 2016

The "Old Book Store" & Story of Dr Anson Jones

Local History Scrapbook
The "Old Book Store" Norwich, Chenango Co., NY
P.B. Prindle (from The Daily Reporter, Nov. 27, 1856
 
The small, white building, standing south of Theodore Miller's dwelling house, and fronting the East Green, was sold a day or two ago [in 1856] by the owner, Dr. Pentecost, to our young friend, Ora  N. Hughson, who will remove it unto his lot upon Rexford street.
 
The building has been occupied since its erection for almost every possible use, both fair and foul.  It has been a dwelling house, a school house, a brothel, a bookstore, a shop of all trades and a drug store.
 
It was in this building that Anson Jones, then, we believe, a medical student or young physician, prosecuted for several years the Druggist and Apothecary business.  Mr. Jones found Chenango County too narrow a field for his ambition to have full scope in.  He migrated westward and southward.  he fetched up eventually in Texas, and contributed his full share toward the severance of that province from the authority of Mexico and in the establishment of its independence.
 
The doctor possessed talent and merit and was rewarded for his service by being elevated to the office of President of the Republic of Texas to succeed Gen. Sam Houston.  We believe he was president of the lone Star Republic at the time of its annexation to the Union in 1845.
 
The Doctor was, a few year ago, in the town of Columbus in the county [Chenango Co., NY], upon a short visit to his relatives there.  He came to Norwich and walked about the streets incog for an hour or two.  Perhaps he smelt a public dinner or some other bore being offered to him.  Whatever the cause of his silence and concealment, he certainly kept himself dark, and he went out, as he came in, entirely unknown.  His subsequent history is unknown to us.
_______________________________________________________________
 
Utica Observer, January 13, 1949
 
Dr. Anson Jones, "a remarkable man who refused to be defeated."  Born in Great Barrington in 1798, Jones was successively school teacher in Goshen, a grocer in Utica, a druggist in Norwich, a doctor in Philadelphia, a merchant and doctor in New Orleans.  Later he was one of the important figures of the short-lived Republic of Texas.  He was instrumental in implementing the annexation of the Lone Star State to the Union in 1846.
____________________________________________________________
 
Obituary -Dr. Anson Jones
Mohawk Valley Register, January 14, 1858
 
 
Dr. Anson Jones
1798 - 1858
 
The telegraph today brings report of the death of Dr. Anson Jones, Ex-President of Texas. He committed suicide at Houston, on the 6th inst., by shooting himself.  Dr. Jones has been prominently connected with public affairs in Texas for many years.  He was a native of Louisiana [sic] but emigrated to Texas in 1833, and at once took part in the struggles of the Republic for independence.  He joined the army, raised a company of volunteers, was at the battle of San Jacinto, received the appointment of Judge Advocate General, and held various military positions during the years '36 and '37.  In 1837 he was elected to the second Congress of Texas from Brazoria County.  In the following year he was appointed Minister of Texas to the United States; was recalled in 1839, and elected State Senator in place of Hon. Wm. H. Wharton, deceased.  In 1840 he was chosen President of the Senate, and, in the absence of Gen. Lamer, became ex-officio Vice President of the Republic.  In 1841 he was elected Secretary of State, an office which he filled with marked ability for three years.  He was the last President of the Republic, having been elected to that station in the year 1844.  In February, 1846, the Republic was annexed to the United States, and Dr. Jones relinquished his authority; two years of his Presidential term being yet unexpired.  Dr. Jones was regarded with great affection by the people of Texas, who were unanimous in ascribing to him measures which resulted in the independence of the young Republic.  Like Senator Rusk, of the same State,  he met his death by his own hand.--N.Y. Times.
______________________________________________________
 
 
 
 
 


Obituary (January 22)

Maria T. (Hull) Hickok
Utica Saturday Globe, January 1907

 
Maria T. (Hull) Hickok
1845 - 1907

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At her home on Mitchell street Tuesday night about 12 o'clock, occurred the death of Mrs. George H. Hickok, aged 61.  Deceased had been a patient sufferer for the past seven years during which time she underwent several operations without permanent relief.  Everything that medical aid and faithful care and nursing could do was done for her by her husband and children during her illness.  Mrs. Hickok was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Silas Hull and was born December 6, 1845, on the old Hull homestead in the town of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].  In November, 1866, she was united in marriage to Geroge H. Hickok, of Unadilla, and for a  year following their marriage they conducted a hotel in Afton.  They then returned to Unadilla and resided there until about 20 years ago, when the family came to Norwich and have since resided in this village.  For many years Mrs. Hickok had been a faithful member of the First Baptist Church.  Besides her husband she is survived by one son, Eugene Hickok, of Washington, D.C., one daughter, Mrs. Arnold Wheaton, of Ithaca, and two granddaughters, Miss Marie Benedict, of New York, and Miss Edna Wheaton, of Ithaca.  She also leaves two sisters, Mrs. Augusta Sage, of Elmira, and Mrs. Ira C. Wightman, of Norwich, and one brother, Frank Hull, of Norwich, who is now seriously ill.  Her funeral is being held from her late home this (Friday) afternoon, Rev. J.L. Ray officiating. Burial in Mt. Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY].
 
Sarah Palmer
Northern Christian Advocate, November 19, 1851
Mrs. Sarah, wife of Ajah Palmer, died at Skaneateles, N.Y. [Onondaga Co.], Oct. 22, 1851, aged 66.  She was born in Dutchess county N.Y., but has for several years past resided in this town [Skaneateles, NY].  Although possessed of those traits of character which made her the center of attraction and endearment in the family circle, she never avowedly embraced the Savior until a short time previous to her death.  The writer, in conversation with her, found her evidently "not far from the kingdom of God."  By the presentation of the "exceeding great and precious promises" of Scripture, and prayer, she was strengthened to apprehend the way of faith more perfectly, and expressed to those about her a willingness and desire to depart.  Her last effort at speaking was to articulate the word "Savior" as she passed into the "shadow of death."  She has left a numerous family, several of whom are members of the M.E Church, to mourn her loss.  May they all meet her in heaven.    Wm. N. Coss,  Skaneateles, Nov. 4, 1851.
 
Henry S. Wells
Chenango Union, October 25, 1906
Henry S. Wells died at his home on Pleasant street on Monday, October 22, aged 72 years.  He came to Norwich in 1869 and has made his home here ever since.  His wife died last July and an only son, George H. Wells, died in 1803.  One daughter, Miss Lois Wells, a teacher in the public schools, survives.  Funeral services were held on Wednesday afternoon, Rev. J.L. Ray officiating.
 
Death Notices
Chenango Union, March 19, 1874
MARSH:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], March 14th, Mr. Hamilton Marsh, aged 70
years.
 
STICKLER:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], March 14th, Mr. Jacob Stickler, aged 22 years.
 
BOWERS:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], March 16th, Gurdon Wallace [Bowers], son of Gurdon Bowers, aged 2 years and 7 months.
 
THOMPSON:  At Wood's Corners [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], March 12th, Mary [Thompson], wife of Daniel D. Thompson, aged 63 years.
 
DOTY:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 13th, Almira [Doty], wife of Reuben Doty, aged 74 years.
 
DRAKE:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 10th, Adelle [Drake], daughter of Zebra Drake, aged 2 years.
 
BUSH:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 5th, Ammarilla [Bush], daughter of Lyman I. Bush, aged 40 years.
 
BURLISON:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 26th, Mr. Seth Burlison, aged 63 years.
 
WHEELER:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], at the residence of her son, Phillip Wheeler, March 9th, Mrs. Naomi Wheeler, widow of the late Henry Wheeler, aged 90 years.
 
BACON:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 6th, Mr. Thomas M. Bacon, aged 70 years.
 
SMITH:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 8th, Mrs. Sarah Dickson Smith, widow of the late Rodney L. Smith, of Wolcottville, Ct., and daughter of D.D. McGeorge, of Oxford, aged 35 years.
 
ALEXANDER:  In Baldwinsville, N.Y. [Onondaga Co.], March 10th, Mr. William Alexander, aged 26 years, formerly of Oxford.
 
MINER:  In Coventryville [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 17th, Mr. Warren Miner, aged 45 years.
 
SALISBURY:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], March 8th, Guy Roswell [Salisbury], infant son of George R. and Elizabeth A. Salisbury.
 
JOSSLYN:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], March 4th, Thatcher A. [Josslyn], son of Joseph D. and Helen Josslyn, aged 4 months.
 
SHEPARD:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], March 4th, Mr. Robert McCoy Shepard, aged 74 years and 10 months.
 
WESTFALL:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], March 8th, Mr. Cornelius Westfall, aged 70 years.
 
BROWN:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], March 8th, Sarah Christine [Brown], only child of E.F. and Ulyssa Brown, aged 14 months.
 
PIERCE:  In Solon, Cortland Co. [NY], March 6th, Robert L. [Pierce], son of A. Smith Pierce and grandson of Mrs. Daniel Noyes, of this village, aged 4 years and 6 months.

Thursday, January 21, 2016

Marriages (January 21)

Clark - Neish
Utica Saturday Globe, January 1907
 

Wilford John & Maude Ethelyn (Neish) Clark

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  A pretty wedding took place Tuesday evening at the home of the bride's father, James A. Neish, in Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY] when Miss Maude Ethelyn Neish was united in marriage to Wilford John Clark, of this village.  The bridal party entered the handsomely decorated parlor to the strains of Lohengrin's wedding march played by Miss Beulah Barber, and the ceremony was performed by Rev. Wilson Treible, in front of a bower of evergreens, in which was suspended the marriage bell.  The bride was handsomely gowned in white lace net and ribbon over white silk and carried a shower bouquet of white bridal roses.  Miss Daisy Stebbins was maid of honor and Devillo Neish, brother of the bride, acted as best man.  After the ceremony a bountiful repast was served.  Many beautiful presents of cut glass, china and silver, linen and furniture testified to the esteem of their friends. The bride is a most estimable young woman and has many friends in this village, where she formerly resided.  The groom is the proprietor of the Park livery, in East Main street.  After a short wedding journey Mr. and Mrs. Clark will be at home to their friends at 38 Court street.
 
Noonan - Dwyer
Chenango Union, September 27, 1906
Harry Noonan, formerly a resident of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], and for the past ten years or so manager of the New York office of the Norwich Pharmacal Company, was married in New York Sept. 20th, to Miss Elizabeth Genevieve Dwyer, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Dwyer, of that city.  Mr. and Mrs. Noonan will occupy apartments at the Marconi, 7th avenue and 141st street.
 
Byrnes - Larney
Chenango Union, September 27, 1906
At St. Paul's Church, Wednesday, occurred the marriage of Mary A. [Larney], daughter of Mr. and Mrs. F.B. Larney, to Edward Byrnes of Hornellsville, Rev. John A. Hart officiating.  The bride was attended by her sister, Miss Elizabeth Larney and the groom by Matthew Murphy, the ushers being Harry B. Roberts and Thomas J. Curley.  Following the ceremony a wedding supper was served at the home of the bride, after which the happy couple left on a brief wedding trip.  Upon their return to Norwich Mr. and Mrs. Byrnes will make their home on Front street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].
 
Foote - Donnelly
Chenango Union, October 4, 1906
Announcements of the marriage of Miss Belle Donnelly to Mr. Lewis A. Foote, both of Scranton [PA] have been received.  The bride was a resident of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] from childhood until a few years ago when she accepted a position in the schools of Scranton.  Mr. Foote, who is in the employment of one of the Scranton banks, formerly was a resident of Morrisville, N.Y. [Delaware Co.]  They are taking a trip to the Adirondacks after which they will reside in Scranton.

Obituaries (January 21)

William H Dimmick
Utica Saturday Globe, January 1907
 
 
William H. Dimmick
1881 -1906
 
Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  In Scranton [PA], Wednesday, December 26, after an illness of two weeks of typhoid fever, occurred the death of William H. Dimmick, aged 25.  Deceased was the youngest child of Charles H. and Mary E. Dimmick, former well known Norwich residents, and he was born in this village and had often visited here since the family removed to Binghamton 23 years ago.  Eighteen months ago he went to Scranton and accepted a position as chief of the optical department with the wholesale jewelry firm of Levy Bros.  He at once identified himself with St. Luke's Church of that city and became active in church work, being a licensed lay reader, teacher in the Sunday school, member of the Brotherhood of St. Andrew and Seneschal of the Castle of the Knights of King Arthur, which he was largely instrumental in organizing.  In June of last year he married Miss Julia Hamm, of Scranton, who survives.  He is also survived by his parents, one brother, Charles, of Binghamton, and a sister, Mrs. Henry Schead, of Johnstown, Pa.  He was a nephew of Mrs. Sarah A. Taylor and cousin of Frank H. Dimmick, of this village.  The funeral was held from St. Luke's Church Saturday and was largely attended.  Interment was made in Forest Hill Cemetery.

Eliza Jane Pierce
Northern Christian Advocate, November 19, 1851
Sister E.J. Pierce, wife of Osborn Pierce, died in Hannibal, Owego county, in the 37th year of her age, after a lingering illness, and a confinement of about four weeks.  She was an exemplary and consistent Christian.  Of the early part of her life, I have not been particularly informed.  But during the last three or four years her piety shone with increasing luster.  Though her health was delicate, her place in the house of God was always filled, when stern necessity did not forbid.  And though she was no bigot in religion, she was ardently attached to the doctrines and discipline of the M.E. Church.  She was a firm believer in the doctrine of the necessity and importance of the believer's personal holiness in this life.  She sought for it, obtained, possessed and lived it.  This was the theme of her conversations and prayers, both in the public congregation and the more private circle of Christian friends.  With what power of faith and feeling would she plead in prayer, until the Holy Spirit descended to warm and cheer the hearts of a whole assembly.  Never shall we forget our own personal interest in those exercises.  She had an impression, that during the year there would be a special outpouring of the Holy Ghost at Hannibal, and that impression was greatly strengthened in our select meetings, held once a week at the parsonage, as a means of obtaining "perfect love."  And she was permitted to survive long enough to rejoice in the conversion of scores of sinners.  She was a firm and abiding friend of the itinerant ministry, and sympathized with them in their peculiar trials and privations.  Indeed she was a bright ornament of the Church militant.  Her eye surveyed the whole field of Christian effort.  Accordingly, she was an excellent missionary collector.  The last task assigned her in this cause was performed conscientiously, with vigor and commendable success.  In her death, the Church in this place is bereft of a shining light; but she has gone to her eternal reward. The impression that her stay among us would be brief, was verified by her speedy removal.  For to her to die was doubtless great gain.  She has left an only daughter, one son, a husband, and other endeared friends, to mourn her loss.  May they all be partakers of that grace which so distinguished her useful life and peaceful death.   O. Squires, Gilberts Mills, Oswego county, N.Y.

William Peters
Chenango Union, October 11, 1906
William Peters, aged 88 years, died as his home on West Main street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Monday morning.  Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon, Rev. Wilson Treible officiating.  Mr. Peters was well known to Norwich people and for many years was connected with the coal business of C.W. Lanpher.

Death Notices
Chenango Union, October 4, 1906

John Hanrahan died at his home on Auburn street, Wednesday afternoon.  Funeral services were held on Friday, burial at St. Paul's [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].

At the residence of her daughter, Mrs. J.H. Frink, on Friday morning occurred the death of Mrs. Margaret P. Day at the age of 71 years.  Funeral services were held on Sunday at 10 a.m., at the house, conducted by Rev. Wm. D. Benton.  Interment at Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]

A telegram was received here Friday morning announcing the death in Brooklyn of Dr. George F. Hand of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], a relative of Dr. S.M. Hand of Norwich.

 

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Early Story of Afton NY - She Got the Silk Dress

Local History Scrap Book
She Got the Silk Dress - Story from Afton, NY
Rev. E.T. Jacobs
Chenango Union, October 11, 1906

When the white people came into the town of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], they followed the course of the river from the north.  They found little clearings where corn had been raised and apple trees were growing.  Their only means of crossing the river was in canoes.  Two ferries were early established and became somewhat celebrated.  "Harper's Ferry," about opposite Nineveh Junction and "Watsal's Ferry," one mile above Unadilla.  The latter was crossed by my mother with her large family, coming from Dutchess county in 1811.  Between thirty and forty years the inhabitants crossed on the ice in the winter, and forded and ferried in summer.
 
A company was chartered in 1825, for the purpose of building the first bridge in the town.  Not having success in the old town records, I cannot name the officers of that company, but the bridge was built by Lord & Bat--- at a cost of $2,400.  It was a rude structure according to present ideas of bridge structure; but the hills, covered with pine and oak, furnished abundant material for the heavy timbers.  The road sills remain as sound as when they were first laid.
 
An incident is related by the old inhabitants as occurring when this bridge was being built, that shows some daring on the part of a young "school marm."  A Miss Hamlin was teaching on the west side of the river while her home was on the east side.  She was in the habit of crossing in a boat, but one night when she was ready to return home, she found the boat was on the opposite side of the river, and like most of her age she did not care to wait.  The piers of the bridge were up and the chords laid, covering the three spans--nearly 400 feet.  The timbers were fourteen inches broad and she proposed to walk on them.  The three spans with the rise and fall of the chords made it much more perilous than a level surface.  As she attempted it the workmen all stopped.  Not a blow was struck, not a word was uttered, as she passed one man after another till the shore was reached. Turning, she waved her handkerchief in triumph as the men sent up cheer after cheer for the brave little girl. The workmen had agreed among themselves that the first lady that crossed the bridge should have a silk dress, and Miss Hannah Hamlin got it.  We wish we had a remnant of it. 
 
 

Obituaries (January 20)

Edward M. Wilkie
Utica Saturday Globe, December 1906
 
 
Edward M. Wilkie

Like a soldier struck down by a random bullet after the battle was over and the field was won.  thus was the death of Edward M. Wilkie, as conscientious a man, as faithful an employee, as careful a railroad conductor as ever gave the best that was in him to the calling which he had chosen as his own.  Monday evening in his capacity of freight conductor he had set out with his train for Binghamton.  He was due back in Utica Christmas morning.  His regular engineer was W.O. Greenia, but this time the train ran as a double-header and at his own request, Engineer Fred Wilkie was assigned to the second engine.  This was done so that the brothers might both be home at Christmas and especially on the 26th when there was to be a family gathering in honor of a beloved mother's 73d birthday.  The trip was a hard one, for the train was heavily loaded, but it was made without special incident, arriving in Utica about 11 o'clock Christmas day.  Turning in his report, Conductor Wilkie set out for his home at 447 Whitesboro street, his mind dwelling affectionately on the aged mother, the devoted wife and the loving children who would not even open their Christmas packages until papa came.  Ed Wilkie was a careful man.  He appreciated to the full the dangers and responsibilities of his work.  Carefulness, natural to him, he had cultivated to an extreme, and his watchful eye and word of caution had served many a youthful brakeman.  In impressing the value of a steady hand and a cool head upon a brakeman only a few days ago he said:  "If I were coupling cars and the station should fall down behind me I would not look around."  And yet, with all this caution, it was reserved for poor Ed Wilkie to be crushed to death while hurrying homeward to the good cheer of the greatest of Christian holidays.  Exactly how death came to him is not known--may never be known. It is supposed that he was hurrying along the Lackawanna siding near the Hoyt street crossing, when a New York Central flier came by and enveloped him in a cloud of smoke and steam.  Just at that moment a couple of freight cars were shunted onto the siding and the sound of their approach drowned by the noise of the passing train, struck him in the back.  He was thrown forward and doubled up and pushed along until such inward injuries were inflicted that death came almost instantly.  Engineer Fred Wilkie had just telephoned from the station to his wife that his train was in and that he would soon be up to dinner; then the telephone bell rang again and he learned to his horror that his brother was badly injured or dead near Hoyt street.  Hurrying there he found the worst to be true.  The sad news was conveyed to the home on Upper Whitesboro street and joyful anticipation gave way to broken hearts. The body was carried to an undertaker's and thence to the home, where for many years the recurrence of Christmas must bring this saddest of recollections.  Ed Willkie was a home man.  His business claimed his best efforts, his most careful attention when on duty.  The time which was his own he devoted to his family ad his books.  By frugality he had paid for a comfortable home and in its cheer he was happiest. As a husband he remained the lover of 18 years ago; as a father he had the love and confidence of his children; as a son he was a prop on which an aged mother leaned with all confidence in his filial love.  His sister said of him:  "He grew in nobility with every year of his life."  His 16-year-old son said with trembling lips:  :"He was my dad."  What more of eulogy is needed?  Ed Wilkie will be missed outside his family.  He was secretary of Kincaid Division, No. 150, Order of Railroad Conductors and his judgment was considered so sound that his advice was often sought even by railroad men of riper years. From Utica to Binghamton every village, every hamlet contains the friends of Ed Wilkie and the hearts that are saddened by his death are many.
 
The Rome Daily Sentinel, September 26, 1906
 
Utica [Oneida Co., NY]:  Edward M. Wilkie, aged 45, a freight conductor on the D.L. & W. Railroad, living at 447 Whitesboro street, was instantly killed in this city yesterday.  He returned from Binghamton with his train at 11 a.m. and started for his home.  Half an hour later he was found dead on the D.L. & W. Tracks near the Hoyt street crossing.  He had taken a short cut home along the Lackawanna tracks, and was walking along the siding which immediately adjoins the Lackawanna main track through the yards.  On the other side of this main track is New York Central track No. 1, along which the fast east-bound passenger trains are run.  At just about the time the accident must have happened a fast through passenger train on the Central went east.  It is supposed that the big passenger threw up a cloud of snow, dust, steam and smoke, and this cloud enveloped Mr Wilkie so that he could not discern what went on about him.  While he was wrapped in this cloud, two steel gondolas came upon him on the siding, shunted along by a switch engine.  Struck down he fell upon the rail and the wheel crushed him so terribly that he must have died almost at once.  Mr. Wilkie had planned long for his Christmas holiday and Monday he spent with his three children decorating a tree that was to be one of the features of their celebration.  And while the children waited for the father's coming he was killed.  Besides his children, he is survived by his wife, his mother, a brother and two sisters.  Conductor Wilkie was very popular with all who knew him, and no employee of the railroad had a better record than he.  He was a man of rare carefulness and in his quarter century of railroad service had never met with an accident.
 
Elvah (Hillard) Lucas
Chenango Union, September 27, 1906
The sad news reached this place on Sunday of the death of Mrs. Elvah Lucas.  She has been a great sufferer for several weeks and although two physicians were called to see her they could not arrest the disease, she passed away on Sunday, the 23d.  She resided in Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY] at what is known at "The Spring house."
 
Sadness again has reached our midst.  The death of Mrs. Charles Lucas, daughter of John and Lisa Hillard occurred the 23d.  The deceased has been sick for a long time.  She leaves a husband, father, two brothers, Adelbert and Elmer of Norwich, one sister, Iva Hillard, of Norwich, one sister, Mrs. Mertie Frink, of this place, and many friends to mourn her loss. The deceased was 35 years of age and loved by all who knew her.

Chenango Union, October 4, 1906
North Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. Elva Lucas aged 37 years, after a painful illness, departed this life September 23, 1906.  Funeral at the house by Elder Chapman, an unusual large concourse of friends and mourners being present.  Burial at Northwest Corners. The deceased was much admired and esteemed by all.  She leaves behind to mourn her loss, a husband, father, two brothers and two sisters besides three stepsons.  She will be greatly missed in her circle of acquaintances.
 
Death Notices
Chenango Union, January 10, 1872
 
GRIFFEN:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 5th, Thomas H. [Griffen], son of Thomas and Mary Nealon Griffen, aged 2 years and 10 months.
 
YALE:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] Jan. 3d, Miss Sarah Yale, aged 14 years.
 
KING:  In East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 3d, Jennie, wife of L.B. King, aged 34 years.
 
EDDY:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 3d, Mr. George W. Eddy, aged 73 years.
 
BUSH:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 31st, Charles W. [Bush], son of Richard and Lydia O. Bush, aged 13 years.
 
COLEMAN:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], suddenly, of bilious colic, Mr. Joseph Coleman, aged 63 years.
 
BURNHAM:  In Utica [Oneida Co., NY], Jan. 3d, Mrs. Fanny Burnham, widow of the late Hon. Clark Burnham, and mother of O.C. Burnham, of this village, aged 63 years.
 
PHILLIPI:  In New London, Conn., Dec. 31st, Helen P. [Phillipi], wife of Charles P. Phillipi, and daughter of Rev. J.S. Swan.
 
RANDALL:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 29th, of scarlet fever, Charlie H. [Randall], only son of Simon and Amelia Randall, aged 2 years, 3 months and 14 days.
"How we loved him"
 
FINKS:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 3d, of scarlet fever, Charlie O. [Finks], son of Perry and Almira Finks, aged 5 years, 8 months and 14 days.
 
These little cousin Charlies were much together on earth, but now in heaven.  Our loss is their gain.
 
 

Tuesday, January 19, 2016

Early History of Bainbridge Central School

Early History of Bainbridge Central School
Chenango County, New York
Bainbridge News & Republican, July 27, 1939


After some controversy regarding sites for a Union Free School, the site selected and adopted March 8, 1873, was the one in present use, viz., one acre of land situated on Richard W. Juliand's farm and bounded on the east by highway called Juliand street, on southwest by highway running near the house of Rufus and Samuel Bennett, and on the northwest and northeast by lands of said Juliand being ten rods on Juliand street and sixteen rods on the other street.  Price paid was $400.
 
A warranty deed for same was given March 27, 1873.  At a school meeting held March 22, 1873, the sum of $800 was voted to build a new schoolhouse and for necessary fixtures and furniture.  July 19, 1873, the building of the schoolhouse was let to O.C. Lattimer, our fellow townsman of Bainbridge, for $7,800.  October 14, 1873, the Board of Education was instructed to furnish seats, procure the necessary library which was done by soliciting, the people giving gladly and to establish an Academic Department.
 
January 19, 1874, a stormy, cloudy, rainy day, the building was dedicated.  Dr. -?- of the First Presbyterian Church of Binghamton preached the dedicatory sermon.  Everything was completed and school opened with EW. Rogers as principal, the Misses E.H. Gilbert and Addie Baldwin as assistants.  The students of the academic department were workers and burned the midnight oil to prepare for next day's lessons.
 
District No. 11 had one rule endorsed by the Board of Education.  There was to be no going out evenings without permission during school week until Friday night.  There were no joy rides, no card parties or dances until Friday night.
 
No graduating work was prepared during the administration of Professor Rogers.  His resignation as principal was received and accepted by the Board July 14, 1876.
 
He was succeeded by Prof. A.G. Kilmer of Cobleskill who remained until the close of the summer term of 1879.
 
A graduating course was laid out and adopted, and the first graduating exercises were held in the year 1878.  Misses Ann Juliand (Dickinson) and Lina Freiott (Copley) were the first graduates of the school.  The standing of the Bainbridge school among the High Schools of the State was third according to Bardeen's School Bulletin.
 
In 1899, a part of the building was destroyed by fire and, when that part was rebuilt, an addition was made. In the succeeding years a house and barn were bought to accommodate the increasing number of pupils.
 
In the fifty years following the founding of the school the number of the pupils gradually increased from about 175 in the first year to 344 in 1924.
 
The course of study was also enlarged.  In the beginning there were no courses in German or French, but Greek and Latin were both taught.
 
The new centralized school, with modern equipment and a more comprehensive course of study was built in 1935.
 
Following in the footsteps of other principals, Francis J. Casey, "Prof." to his pupils and the townspeople, came in the Fall of 1920 to act in the capacity of adviser and friend as well as principal of the school.  This Fall [1939], in the sixty-fifth year of the Bainbridge School, he begins his twentieth year as principal.
 
 

Obituaries (January 19)

William A. Raymond
Utica Saturday Globe, December 1912

 
William A. Raymond
1822 - 1912

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  William A. Raymond, for many years a well known and respected resident of Norwich passed away Wednesday at his boarding place with the family of P.J. Letterman, on Diamond street, after a brief illness, aged 84.  Mr. Raymond was born in McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], September 19, 1822, and came to this village during his early life.  For about 15 years he conducted a general store on North Broad street and for the past 16 years he had been a traveling salesman during which time he had become well known throughout this and adjoining counties.  He was twice married, his first wife being Elizabeth Wells, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lyon G. Wells, of Pitcher.  He married for his second wife Ustacia Crain, daughter of Gen. H. Crain, of Norwich.  She died about 22 years ago.  Mr. Raymond was a member of the First Baptist Church with which he united many years ago.  he is survived by three sons, George B., of Indiana; William C., of Hoboken, N.J., and Harry R., of Brooklyn, and two daughters, Mrs. D.D. Raymond, of McDonough, and Mrs. J. Plumb, of Norfolk, Va.  His funeral will be held Saturday forenoon at 11 o'clock, Rev. J.J. Ray officiating.
 
David Lowren Pierce
Northern Christian Advocate, November 19, 1851
David Lowren, eldest son of Abram Briggs and Alice Ann Pierce, of Ira, Cayuga county, N.Y., died of dysentery, Sept. 18, 1851 after an illness of two weeks in the 7th year of his age.
"Fondly we hoped--how vain that hope appears--
Our smiling son would live for days to come;
With filial love would soothe our lengthening years,
And twine a living wreath to grace our humble tomb."
H. Kinsley, Ly7788sander, Nov. 9, 1851

Amanda (Gregory) Merchant
Chenango Union, September 20, 1906
Mrs. Amanda Merchant died Sept. 17th, having reached the age of ninety-six years, five and one-half months.  She was a daughter of Samuel Gregory and was born in Herrick, Susquehanna county, Pa., in 1810.  In 1832 she was united in marriage to the Rev. Seth S Rogers, who was rector of the Episcopal church in this place [Guilford, Chenango Co., NY] at the time of his death in 1838.  In 1857 she was married to Orin G. Merchant, who died in 1880.  She leaves one son, Samuel Rogers, of Montrose, Pa., and many grandchildren.  M.R. Merchant of Guilford, and Mrs. G. H. Baldwin of Norwich, children of Mr. Merchant by a former marriage, also survive her.  She was a woman of great ability and notwithstanding her advanced age retained possession of all her faculties until within a few days of her death.  She will be greatly missed in the community.

Henry A. Olendorf
Chenango Union, September 27, 1906
At the residence of John E. Hurlbut, 54 West Main street in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] Friday morning, occurred the death of Henry A. Olendorf, aged 51 years.  He was a resident of Wrentham Center, Mass., and his body will be shipped there for burial.

Emily (Eldredge) Arnold
Chenango Union, September 27, 1906
Mrs. Emily E. Arnold, widow of the late Otis R. Arnold, died at her home, 52 Henry street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] Friday noon.  The funeral was held at her late home Sunday at 12 o'clock, Rev. Wilson Treible officiating.  Burial at White Store cemetery [Norwich, NY].  Deceased was formerly Emily E. Eldredge of Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY, and was 75 years of age.  She had resided in Norwich about seventeen years and was highly esteemed by her friends and acquaintances.  One brother, John Eldredge and one sister, Mrs. Lucien Blackman of Pitcher, survive.
 

Monday, January 18, 2016

Obituaries (January 18)

Mary Thornton
Utica Saturday Globe, December 1912
 
 
Mary Thornton
1819 - 1912

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. Mary Thornton, who recently died at the home of her son, Mielion Thornton, in East Norwich, was the widow of Alonzo Thornton who passed away a number of years ago.  Mrs. Thornton was born in the year 1819 and had passed all of her long life in her native town, where she came to be highly esteemed and greatly beloved by all who knew her.  She had a smile and a kind word for all and was ever ready to aid in time of sickness or distress.  She is survived by four children, three sons, Adelbert Cook and King Thornton, of Poolville; Mielion Thornton, of East Norwich, and one daughter, Mrs. Palmer Edwards, of Springvale.  Her funeral was largely attended at her late home Tuesday December 4, Rev. Wilson Treible officiating.  Interment was made in Mount Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY].
 
Frances (Harris) Lewis
Utica Saturday Globe, December 1912
 
 
Frances (Harris) Lewis
1823 - 1912
 
Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At the home of her daughter, Mrs. Callie Satterlee, on Pleasant street, on Tuesday, occurred the death of Frances Almeda Harris Lewis, aged 83.  Deceased was born in Norwich, May 16, 1823, and was a daughter of David and Ketwiah Harris.  Her parents were pioneer settlers of this section, coming here from Rhode Island and were among the first to clear a farm on the hills west of this village, still known as the Harris farm.  There survive her six daughters, Mrs. Harriet U. Bard, Mrs. Celia H. Scott, Mrs. Addie M. Lloyd and Mrs. Annie M. Sherman, of Chautauqua county; Mrs. Christine C. Kirkly and Mrs. Callie Satterlee, of this place.  She has also living 22 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.  Her funeral was held on Thursday afternoon, Rev. Wilson Treible officiating.  Burial was made in the Dimmick Cemetery at South Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

Matthew Murphy
Chenango Union, September 13, 1906
Matthew Murphy, aged 96 years, died at his home in Preston [Chenango Co., NY] on Friday, September 7.  He had lived eighty-two years on the farm where he died, and which he purchased from a property formerly owned by Gen. B.P. Butler.  Mr. Murphy was employed on the construction of the old Chenango Canal and had seen practically all of the industrial development of Norwich.  He was a witness of the hanging of George Dennison, in Norwich, in 1833.  Mr. Murphy was married in 1833 to Bridget McGown of Smithville, who died in 1878, and to them was born Mrs. Cornelius Conway, who died in 1890, Edward M. Murphy, who died in 1903, James A. Murphy, who died in infancy, Catherine Guinane, John C. Murphy, Margaret Welch and Mrs. James Quinn, survive him.  Funeral services were held Monday morning, Rev. Nicholas J. Quinn, of Union officiating.  Interment was at Oxford.

May (Abell) Bagley
Chenango Union, September 13, 1906
May Abell, wife of Louis H., Bagley and daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John H. Abell, died at her home on Randall avenue Saturday evening, aged 24 years.  She has been in poor health for nearly two years, but for the past few weeks had been feeling better and on Thursday of last week spent the afternoon at the Fair.  Saturday her condition was complicated by weak heart action which result in death.  Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon, burial being at Mt. Hope [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY]

Grover Edwards
Chenango Union, September 13, 1906
Grover, the thirteen year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Edwards, town of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], died at the home of his parents on Thursday, September 6, of typhoid fever.  There are two other cases of the disease in the family.  He is survived by his parents, three brothers, Frank, George and Leslie and three sisters, Mrs. Frank Conley and Mrs. W.S. Haynes, of Norwich and Mrs. Jay Newton, of Preston.

Sarah Edwards
Chenango Union, September 13, 1906
Another Death in Family:  Sarah, wife of Andrew Edwards, and mother of Grover Edwards, died Wednesday afternoon, in her 49th year.  She had been ill with typhoid fever for four weeks but was believed to be recovering.  Funeral services will be held Friday afternoon.

Death Notices
Chenango Union, September 13, 1906
 
DAVIS:  Mrs. Devillo Davis died at her home at Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY] on Friday, September 7, aged 58 years. Funeral services were held on Monday, Rev. M.H. Kendrick officiating.  Mrs. Davis, who was the mother of M.W. Davis, of Norwich, has been in poor health for several months.

DAVERN:  Mary, wife of James Davern, died at her home at Springvale on Wednesday, September 5, aged 60 years.  Funeral services were held Saturday morning at St. Paul's church.  She is survived by her husband, two sons, Stephen and John, of Norwich, and three daughters.  Mrs. Burdette Tucker, of Oxford, Mrs. Niel Lewis of Norwich and Miss Catherine Davern, of Norwich.

RYAN:  Mary, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Ryan died at the home of her parents, East Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] on Friday, September 7.  Funeral services were held on Sunday, Rev. Wilson Treible officiating.

FRANKLIN:  Mrs. Eunice Franklin, widow of the late Leonard Franklin, of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY] died at her home September 5.  Funeral services were held on Friday, interment being at East McDonough.

FIELD:  Helen Carrie Field, the three year old daughter of William E. and Josie Hawxhurst Field, of Brooklyn, died at the home of James E. Hawxhurst, Westcott street, on Thursday.

TYRER:  Mrs. Lucinda Tyrer died at her home on Crandall street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] Thursday, September 6, aged 73 years. Deceased was the widow of the late James Tyrer.

 

Sunday, January 17, 2016

Post Listing, December 11 - 17, 2016

List of blog postings for the week of December 11-17, 2016

Marriages
Posted January 11, 2016
William Fahy - Harriet Southerland (1912)
John Higley - Philena Barnes (1898)

Posted January 12, 2016
Marriage Notices
     Murates Beach - Betsey A. Smith (1858)
     George P Barnard - Anna B. Rensselaer (1858)
     Dr. Blin S. Sill - Jane Ann Chandler (1858)
     George W. Church - Schysdona Gleason (1858)
     Isaac Burket Newton - Mary E. Mitchell (1885)
     Edward W. Murphy - Mary O'Donnell (1885)
     Augustus A. Warner - Addie Fairbanks (1885)
     E.H. Copley - H. Jeanette Campbell (1885)
     Henry Woods - Hattie L. Sweet (1885)
     Homer E. Robinson - Etta A. Shaw (1885)
     Leroy G. Coville - Polly A. Lull (1885)
     J.D. Williams - Hattie Heacox (1885)
     A. Milton - Lizzie C. Godfrey (1885)

Posted January 16, 2016
Arthur Legnard - Katherine Louise Downey (1912)
Marriage Notices - 1902
     John Normile - Carrie Hyland
     Mortimer Winsor - Jennie Brooks
     Earl G. Pudney - Cora Nicholson
     Frank M. Tiffany - H. Pearl Newton
     Everett J. Graves - Flora Wightman
     George Leggett - Carrie Cary
     George P. Jones - Annie J. Moe

Posted January 17, 2016
George William Medbury - Effie c. Thurston (1912)
Otis A Thompson - Theresa Nora Fitch (1906)
Mary Elizabeth Hall - Porter R. Hadsell (1906)
 
Obituaries
Posted January 11, 2016
Lucy V. (Rose) Hyde (Norwich, Pitcher,  1912)
Sylvanus Ames (Albion, 1851)
Walter Higley (Bainbridge, 1896)
Charles Stebbins (Cazenovia, 1898)
Sterling F. Higley (Norwich, 1943

Posted January 12, 2016
Mack Ryan (Norwich, 1912)
John W. Foster (Masonville, 1851)
Sally Sill (Columbus, 1850)
Dr. Blin S. Sill (Bainbridge, 1873)
Clement B. Williams (Afton, 1873)
Death Notices - 1858
     Obadiah Sands (Oxford)
     Julia Hinman Kinney (Defiance, OH)
     Alice Cole (Empire, IL)

Posted January 13, 2016
Daniel Weiss (Norwich, 1912)
Franklin R. Graves (Antiwerp, Cuba, 1851)
Mrs. E.M. Lebicher (Norwich, Philadelphia, 1906)
Frank M. Pendleton (Cuba, 1907)

Posted January 14, 2016
Dr. Sidney E. Smith (Brooklyn, Norwich, 1912)
Barbara Ann Huntley (1851)
Jennie Wilbur (Norwich, 1907)
Waldron Harrington Tinker (Oneonta, Norwich, 1907)
Mary Pauline Robbins (Norwich, 1907)

Posted January 15, 2016
William T. Pancoast (Sherburne, 1912)
Dolly Hobart (Rushville, 1851)
Samuel Mills Foote (Sherburne, 1907)
Ida Waldron Jerome (Minneapolis, MN 1907)
Archibald McConnell (Norwich, Rochester, 1907)
Andrew H. Nichols (Smithville, 1907)  Civil War veteran

Posted January 16, 2016
Charles W. Winsor (Norwich, 1912)
James D. Johnson (Candor, 1851)
Sabra Westcott (Norwich, Minneapolis, MN, 1906)
William H. Sternberg (Norwich, Wichita KN, 1906
Death Notices
     George Miles (McDonough, 1871)
     Hon. Clark Burnham (Utica, 1871)
     Bartholomew Callahan (Oxford, 1902)
     Eliza J. Cashman (Oxford, 1902)
     Mary Richmond (Tyner, 1902)
     Mrs. Porter Sherman (Brooklyn, Norwich, 1902)
     John Niven (Coventryville, 1902)

Posted January 17, 2016
Charles H. Davis (Summit, 1912)
Sophia A. Moore (New Lisbon, IL, Westmoreland, 1851)
Florine M. Pellett (Norwich, 1906)
George A Davis (Middletown, 1906)
Frank Dean (Norwich, 1906)

 
Miscellaneous
Posted January 11, 2016
Linn A.E. Gale, 1892 - 1940

Posted January 12, 2016
Kasson Gibson, Renowned Physicist, 1890 - 1979

Posted January 13, 2016
Bainbridge Central High School, Class of 1956 - Part 4

Posted January 14, 2016
Norwich, Chenango Co., NY of nearly 70 years ago [in 1906]

Posted January 15, 2016
Esther K. Rafferty - Resigns Norwich High to go to Albany College - 1912

Posted January 17, 2016
Judge Michael H. Kiley,1861 - 1928

Judge Michael H. Kiley 1860 - 1928

Hon. Michael H. Kiley
Republican Nominee for Supreme Court Justice in Sixth Judicial District
Utica Saturday Globe, November 1912

 
Michael H. Kiley
1861 - 1928

Hon. Michael H. Kiley, of Cazenovia [Madison Co., NY], is the Republican candidate for judge of the Supreme Court in the sixth judicial district of New York state.  judge Kiley has an enviable reputation as a jurist and is a splendid type of the self made man.
 
Judge Kiley was born in Horicon, Warren county, 51 years ago.  His father, who came to this country from Ireland in early life, followed farming and the son took up this occupation in young manhood.  In the spring of 1881 he went to work on the farm of Charles Peck, in the town of Manlius, Onondaga county, and in the following fall entered Cazenovia Seminary.  he was graduated in the Latin scientific course in June, 1883, as orator of his class, but remained in the seminary for two years longer, acting as steward the first year and later teaching Latin and at the same time studying law with the late Dr. W. Cameron, of Cazenovia, from whose office he was admitted to practice April 23, 1886.
 
After his admission to the bar he formed a partnership with Mr. Cameron under the firm name of Cameron & Kiley, which continued until the fall of 1891, after which Mr. Kiley practiced alone.  As a criminal lawyer, he was highly successful.  He was elected district attorney of Madison county and served for three years. This office he filled in a most acceptable manner, proving a terror to evil doers.  He is now serving his second term as county judge and surrogate of Madison county.
 
Judge Kiley has been a trustee of Cazenovia Seminary, a trustee of the Cazenovia Union Free School, incorporator and director of the Cazenovia National Bank, a stockholder of the Cazenovia Canning Company and in the Cazenovia Realty Company, president of the village of Cazenovia, and also village attorney.  At present he is vice president of the State Bar Association.
 
The sixth judicial district, in which he is a candidate, comprises the counties of Broome, Chemung, Cortland, Delaware, Madison and Chenango.
_____________________________________________________
 
Obituary
Daily Sentinel, Rome, NY, May 19, 1928
 
Judge Michael H. Kiley, 62, justice of the Supreme Court, assigned to the Appellate Division, died suddenly today at noon at his residence in Cazenovia [Madison Co., NY].  He was born in Huricon, Warren county, August 15, 1861.  At the age of 12 he went to Cazenovia with his parents, locating on a farm near Chittenango.  He entered the Yates Union Free School at Clinton and worked on the farm of Charles Peck in Manlius.  In the fall of 1881 he entered Cazenovia Seminary, graduating from there in June, 1883.  He worked his way through the seminary.  Two years following graduation he remained in the seminary teaching Latin and studying in the law offices of the late Delos W. Cameron.  He was admitted to the bar in April 1886, and entered into co-partnership with Mr. Cameron the same year. This partnership lasted until the fall of 1891.  In January, 1892, he opened offices of his own in Cazenovia.  In 1895 he was elected district attorney on the Republican ticket and served nine years.  In 1905 he was elected county judge and surrogate and served two terms.  He was then elected Supreme Court justice and two years ago was assigned to the Appellate Division.  Four years ago he had a severe attack of illness and had been subject since to heart attacks, which was the cause of his death.  He is survived by his wife, Chloe; two daughters, one in China; a son, Nicholas, in New York city; two brothers, Edward A. of Oneida and James of Syracuse and one sister, Mrs. Dr. Coyle of Schenectady.


Marriages (January 17)

Medbury - Thurston
Utica Saturday Globe, 1912
 

George William & Effie C. (Thurston) Medbury

George William Medbury, of Rockdale [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Effie C Thurston, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] were quietly married at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.S Thurston, Wednesday, November 28, at 9:30 a.m.  Rev. C.C. Vrooman, pastor of the M.E. Church of Guilford, performed the ceremony, only the immediate relatives being present.  Mr. and Mrs. Medbury left New Berlin Junction on the 11:20 train for New York city.  They will also visit Paterson, N.J. and Scranton, Pa.  The young couple are well known and their many friends extend heartiest congratulations.
 
Thompson - Fitch
Chenango Union, September 13, 1906
Otis A. Thompson, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Theresa Nora [Fitch], daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph H. Fitch, of Rochester [Monroe Co., NY], were married at the home of the bride on Tuesday, September 4, 1906, Rev. H.C. Peepels, officiating.  After October 1, Mr. and Mrs. Thompson will be at home to their friends at No. 16 Conkey avenue.  The bride was a former resident of Norwich and has many friends here. The groom has been employed in the Chenango National Bank for a number of years and a few weeks ago was elected teller.  He is clerk of the Congregational church, one of the directors of the Y.M.C.A. and active in the religious work of the village.
 
Hadsell - Hall
Chenango Union, September 13, 1906
At the Foote homestead on Cortland street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Wednesday evening, under an arch of clematis and green foliage, in the east parlor where her mother stood as a bride, Miss Mary Elizabeth Hall was married to Mr. Porter R. Hadsell, of Worcester, N.Y. [Otsego Co., NY].  The ceremony was performed at eight o'clock, by Rev. Daniel W. Dexter, pastor of the First Congregational church, in the presence of about 100 relatives and friends.  The bride received her own guests, assisted by the groom, Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Foote, of Binghamton, and Miss Margaret Foote, of Orange, N.J.; and at the altar was attended by her nephew, master Donald Hall, as ring bearer and master Henry Donaldson, as page. The bridal gown was of embroidered Persian Lawn and the bridal bouquet of white bride's rose buds.  As the final word of the benediction was pronounced a cornucopia of confetti, concealed above the arch, was overturned and while the bride and groom were receiving the congratulations of their friends the bright colored tokens of love and best wishes showered upon them. A wedding luncheon was served in the dining room, which was decorated, in white and green.  Miss Hickey catered and Miss Parsons, of Earlville, Miss Buell of Earlville, and Misses Mitchell and Christenson, of Norwich assisted in the dining room. A large number of friends escorted the bridal couple to the Lackawanna station and saw them safely on their wedding trip.  The bride is the only daughter of the late Henry C. and Amelia Foote Hall and has lived the greater part of her life in Norwich. She was educated at Norwich High School and Mt. Holyoke college and for a few years taught at Earlville, Sherburne and Worcester.  After the death of her mother she returned to Norwich ot make a home for her widowed brother,  Harry C Hall and since his death has devoted herself tenderly to the care of his only son, Donald.  For the past year she has held an important clerkship in the Norwich post office. She is a member of the First Congregational church and has been president of the King's Daughters circle of that church, and active in the Sunday school.  She is a member of the local Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution and Schenevus Chapter, Order of the Easter Star.  Her circle of acquaintances in Norwich is very large and the love and best wishes of all her friends follow her to her new home, whither she also takes many handsome and substantial tokens of esteem and affection.  The groom is a contractor and builder and lumber manufacturer, at Worcester and is prominent in social and Masonic circles in that vicinity.

Obituaries (January 17)

Charles H. Davis
Utica Saturday Globe, November 1912
 
 
Charles H. Davis
1840 - 1912

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Charles H. Davis, for 30 years an engineer on the New York, Ontario & Western Railroad, running between Norwich and Middletown, succumbed to a severe attack of pneumonia, at his home at Summit [Schoharie Co., NY] on Thursday evening of last week.  Mr. Davis retired from active service as a locomotive engineer six years ago, went to a farm at the Summit and took charge of the railroad pumping station located there.  He entered the employ of the Ontario & Western Company more than 30 years before and became one of the most trusted engineers in the passenger service.  Mr Davis was born at Chenango Bridge [Broome Co., NY] 66 years ago, in 1840, being the son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Davis.  In 1860 he was united in marriage to Laura Tyler, of Chenango Bridge, who survives him.  His mother, 90 years of age, is still living at Chenango Bridge.  He is survived by two children, a daughter, Mrs. Hattie A. Ellenberger, of Middletown and a son, Fred H. Davis, of Ellenville.  He also leaves two brothers, George H. Davis, of Lisle, and Oliver H. Davis, of Norwich, and a sister, Mrs. Jennie Lee, of Killawog.  The funeral was largely attended Saturday afternoon at 1 o'clock, the remains being taken to Lisle, Broome county, for interment Sunday.  For the accommodation of the many friends who attended the funeral services trains 1 and 2 stopped at the Summit Saturday.
 
Sophia A. Moore
Northern Christian Advocate, November 19, 1851
Mrs. Sophia A., wife of J.B. Moore, died October 22, 1851, at New Lisbon, Granby county, Illinois, in the 32d year of her age.  At an early period of her life she was the subject of religious impressions, and at the age of thirteen, under the ministrations of Rev Albert D. Peck, at Vernon Centre, she was converted and united with the M.E. Church of which she remained a worthy member to the day of her death.  Sister Moore was born in Westmoreland, Oneida county, N.Y., and, in company with her family, about seven years ago, came to Illinois.  She was a woman of more than ordinary mind, of great firmness and moral integrity. She was amiable in her disposition, friendly in her intercourse, and highly esteemed by all with whom she was acquainted.  Her life was like an even spun thread.  Her death was calm and peaceful.  Had Providence permitted, it would have been her pleasure to have lived long enough to have "trained up" her little boy and girl; but her language, while commuting these to the especial care of her deeply afflicted companion, was "the will of the Lord be done."  Her bereaved husband, her motherless children, the large circle of relatives and friends, deeply mourn her sudden removal.  But they "sorrow not as those who have no hope."  She "sleeps in Jesus."    S.P. Denning
 
Florine M. Pellett
Chenango Union, September 6, 1906
Miss Florine M. Pellett died at the home of her sister, Mrs. John Hall Friday evening, August 31, aged 62 years.  She had been in her usual health and death, which was the result of heart failure, came very suddenly.  Miss Pellett was a daughter of the late Nelson Pellett, who was editor of the Telegraph from 1840 to 1851.  She was born and has always lived in the house where she died.  Funeral; services were held Monday afternoon, Rev. W.D. Benton, D.D., officiating.  Burial was at Mt. Hope [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].  She was a woman of strong character, exceptionally thoughtful of the feelings of others, not demonstrative but by daily acts of kindness and helpfulness testifying to her devotion to those around her.  She was a member of Emmanuel church and while health permitted was active in all of its endeavors.
 
George A. Davis
Chenango Union, September 13, 1906
George A. Davis, formerly employed as baker by M.W Cox was found dead in his room at the Oriental Hotel, Middletown [Orange Co., NY], Thursday morning, September 5.  Davis left Norwich September 5 to visit his brother at Middletown and meet his mother, Mrs. E.H. Harford, of Paterson, N.J.  He visited his brother whom he had not seen for four years on Wednesday and Wednesday night went to the Oriental Hotel, took a room and left a call for seven o'clock.  He was called at that hour, but not appearing several hours later the room was entered and Davis' body was found, fully dressed on the bed, which had not bee occupied.  The gas was turned on ant the room filled with gas.  Mrs. Harford reached Middletown about the time the body of her son was found.  Funeral services were held on Saturday.
 
Frank Dean
Chenango Union, September 13, 1906
Frank Dean, known as the "Belfast Spider" and a pugilist of considerable repute, died Friday evening at his home on Pleasant street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].  He got up as usual Friday morning and ate a hearty breakfast.  Very soon he complained of pains in his stomach and lay down.  He was feeling about the same at noon and his wife went to the Fair.  Returning about 5:30 she found him in a comatose state and sent for Dr. Roper.  Dean died about 6:30 before the arrival of her physician. Coroner Manley was called and ordered an autopsy which was performed by Dr. Brooks, assisted by Drs. Roper, Phelps and Fernald.  No report of the autopsy has been made but it is believed that acute indigestion was the cause of death.