Advertisement - Mt. Upton Woolen Factory - 1861

Advertisement

The Chenango Telegraph, July 3, 1861

 

WOOL! WOOL! WOOL!

Wanted at the

MT. UPTON WOOLEN FACTORY,

 

in exchange for goods, or to manufacture by the yard.

 

A Large Stock of Cloths

AT WHOLESALE AND RETAIL!

Kept constantly on hand, consisting of

FULLER CLOTHS,   CASSIMERS,   SATINETTS,

TWEEDS,   and   FLANNELS

 

also

Rolls and Stocking-Yarn

 

WOOL CARDING AND CLOTH

DRESSING done at all times in the best manner,

Customers at a distance wishing to wait for their carding can

be accommodated if they will come at an early hour of the day.

 

Grateful to the public for a liberal patronage conferred

during the past twelve years, the undersigned takes pleasure

in announcing to his customers in Chenango, Otsego and

Delaware, "and the rest of mankind," that he now has facilities

for turning out

1000 YARDS PER WEEK

Having enlarged his mill greatly, improved his machinery,

employed an effective force, fully armed and equipped, and a

water power ample and unfailing.

 

Having been successful in the past, and having refitted,

CAPTAIN and CREW, are all aboard ready for a "General

Action," on the arrival of the

NEW CLIP,

We may not fight, but at such time can always

RUN,

So our friends will know what to expect. We hope that none will be disappointed.

 

I.

On Guilford's eastern boundary line,

Since eighteen hundred forty-nine

The Unadilla's ceaseless flow

Has pressed our wheels and made them go.

Now, in our Nation's trying hour,

Our patriotism awakes with power

II.

Our cards, revolving, can release

And straighten out a tangled fleece;

But never yet, could play nor sing

Secession's tune:  "Cotton is King;"

They chime with strains of Seventy-Six,

No Cotton with their Wool they mix.

III.

Our spindles too, prolong the strain

When marching out and back again;

In two extensive lines they move,

Thus stretching out the wooly rove,

When marshalled on their iron track

They show the way "to freedom back."

IV.

Our looms of course for Union run,

On warps thus made, on woof thus spun,

And while the threads are passing there

Swift as an eagle cuts the air,

They form a fabric firm and strong,

Like Union men, assailed by wrong.

V.

What though success our effort crowns;

Though fortune smiles, or gold abounds

if o'er our land shall cease to wave

The banner of the free and brave;

Our Nation severed--rent in twain

By traitorous hands, by men insane.

VI.

Our constant prayer shall still ascend

That "treason planned," may quickly end,

For country, and for him who fights

"For freedom and for chartered rights,"

Our President and General Scott

While party names may be forgot.

 

Erastus Rockwell, Mt. Upon, June 1, 1861

 

 

 

 



George W. Brooks Honored - 1915

Norwich Veteran Receives Signal Honors

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1915

 

George W. Brooks

1841 - 1928

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Signal honors have been showered upon Comrade George W. Brooks during the past fortnight.  Mr. Brooks attended the 37th annual reunion of the Eighth New York Veteran Cavalry Association in Rochester and was chosen vice president of the organization.  Edward Marriott of Louisville, Ky., was elected president; W.H. Patterson of Rochester, secretary, and James H. Splaine, of Rochester, color sergeant.  Out of 2,800 men who enlisted in the Eighth New York Cavalry Volunteers from 1861 to 1865 only 70 are known to be living. 

 

At the annual reunion of the Chenango County Veterans Association in the Court House Wednesday Mr. Brooks was elected president at the morning session.  Charles A. Fuller, of Sherburne, was chosen treasurer, ad Charles A. Sumner, of Norwich, is the permanent secretary.  Over 70 veterans registered at the morning session and a larger number were in attendance at the camp fire and other exercises in the afternoon.

 

Comrade Brooks bears his dual honors becomingly and is being congratulated upon the worthy preferment shown him.

 

___________________________________________

 



Obituary

Utica Observer - Dispatch, May 2, 1928

Norwich:  George W. Brooks, 87, veteran of the Civil War, 33d degree Mason and life resident of this city, died at his home, 91 North Broad Street, Monday.  Death was due to septic poisoning.   There are few residents of Norwich, who did not know Mr. Brooks.  He was born in Norwich March 3, 1841.  When the Civil War started he enlisted at Rochester in the New York cavalry and served 37 months, winning his honorable discharge at the end of that period.  Upon his return to Norwich he followed his occupation of bridge builder for a time and then took to the management of hotels.  He was proprietor of what was known at that time as the Palmer House and at one time  he conducted a hotel at Oxford.  In recent years, Mr. Brooks had lived a retired life.  Mr. Brooks' was a member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church.  He rose to be a 33d degree Mason and was a life member of Norwich lodge F.&A.M., Harmony Chapter and Norwich Commandery, Knights Templar.  He was a member of Ziyara Shrine at Utica.  He was also a member of Norwich Lodge of Elks.  There survive his widow, a daughter, Mrs. Ada Curtis; two granddaughters, Mrs. Robert S. Wait of Williamsville and Mrs. Bryce Blakeley of Newport, and four grandchildren.

 

 

Obituaries (August 6)

Radzell Aldrich

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1915

 

Radzell Aldrich

1842 - 1915

Norwich [Chenango Co.., NY]:  Radzell Aldrich, who died recently at his home on Piano street, had never fully recovered from an illness he suffered last February, though he had been able to be about and his death was so unexpected as to cause a great shock to his family and friends. Deceased was the son of Seldon and Julia Aldrich and was born in the town of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY] April 9, 1842.  He was educated in the district schools of the township and Norwich Academy.  He remained a resident of his native town until about 10 years ago when he moved to Norwich to make his home.  The larger part of his life had been spent in farming and for many years he was an active and leading member of Plymouth Grange.  When the Borden Condensary opened for business in Norwich.  Mr. Aldrich was the first farmer to attach his name to a milk contract  December 20, 1871, he married Emma E. Johnson, of Ilion, who survives him.  He leaves one daughter, Mrs. E.T. Buell; one son, Mason Aldrich, and five grandchildren, Gertrude and Ray Buell, Gilbert, Wesley and Lawrence Aldrich, all of Norwich.  Rev. Paul Riley Allen conducted the funeral services, which were held from his late residence, the burial being made in the cemetery at South Plymouth.

Mildred Johnson (1878 - 1915)

Utica Saturday Globe, 1915

The announcement of the death Saturday evening of Miss Mildred Johnson, of Division street, brought sorrow to hosts of friends and acquaintances.  A serious illness in the early spring undermined her usual good health and in spite of her great desire to live and the strong and cheery spirit she manifested, death came peacefully after a week's confinement to her bed. She is survived by her mother, Mrs. Adelia Johnson, of this city, and a sister, Mrs. Truman Parker, of South New Berlin.  Miss Johnson had been a valued clerk in the Chapman & Turner store for about nine years and had won for herself many good friends. The store was closed during the funeral hour as a fitting tribute to her loyalty and to give the other employees an opportunity to attend the services. She was a faithful worker in the first Baptist Church and a member of the Monday Evening musical Club. A prayer service was held at her late home Tuesday morning and the body taken to the home of her sister in South New Berlin, where funeral services were held.  Rev. J.A. Monk, of Norwich, officiated, assisted by Rev. Linn Wheeler, of that place.  Interment was made in the South New Berlin Cemetery [Chenango Co., NY].

Howard B. Batchelor

Utica Semi-Weekly Herald, September 3, 1897

Howard B. Batchelor, only son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles A Batchelor of No. 180 Neilson street, died at his parents' home at 10:30 Tuesday morning.  The cause of his death is unknown.  Howard was six years old, and two weeks ago suffered a slight attack of scarletina, but he apparently recovered.  Monday morning the little fellow was taken seriously ill.  He came in from play and exhibited a red arm.  He said he had fallen.  His mother bathed it for him and he sat down in the doorway opening into the yard. He had been there but a little while when he complained bitterly and his mother commenced to undress him.  It was then that she saw that his legs and arms were discolored.  Dr. Pattengill was called about an hour later and examined the child carefully, but failed to find injuries that could be pronounced serious or severe.  There were no bones broken and nothing of an internal nature to cause apprehension.  Howard was dazed and partly unconscious, and talked of having received a fall, also of being caught between the barrels.  he had been at play with other boys about the new house on the corner, but no one had seen him fall, and the first known of such an accident was when he told of it himself. The body after death became completely discolored with the exception of the face and chest.

Rev. George Bowler

Syracuse Herald, July 21, 1931

The Rev. George Bowler, 71, for more than 40 years a Baptist minister in Northern and Central New York and one-time worker with William E. (Pussyfoot) Johnson in the Anti-Saloon League, died last night in the private sanatorium at Geneva, after several years illness.  Mr. Bowler was a native of Leicester, England.  He attended Oxford Divinity School after completing his early education in that country.  He served his first pastorate in his birthplace, Leicester, after he was ordained into the Baptist ministry.  As a young man he came to the United States and took charge of the pastorate at Coventry [Chenango Co., NY].  During his service as a Baptist minister, he was pastor of churches at Homer, Georgetown, Genesee Street Church, Rochester, South Otselic, Canton, Morrisville, Hartwick and Fabius.  Six years ago he retired at Hartwick and went to Minetto to make his home.  He met Pussyfoot Johnson while a resident of Homer.  He went to Long Island for Johnson to Lecture for the Anti-Saloon League in early 1900.  Mr. Bowler is survived by his wife, Mrs. Mary Jane Thirdborough Bowler; two daughters, Mrs. Florence Ackler and Mrs. Lucy March, all of Minetto; four sons, John H. Bowler, of Taunton, James S. Bowler of Cazenovia, C. Leonard Bowler of Geneva and Archie F. Bowler of Lyons; a brother, James Bower of Utah and 10 grandchildren.  Funeral services will be conducted at 2 o'clock Thursday afternoon at the family home in Minetto to where Carl E. Welter, undertaker, took the body.  Burial will be in Minetto Cemetery [Oswego Co., NY].

Jennett Harris

Chenango Telegraph, September 12, 1860

HARRIS:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the morning of the 21st of Aug., Jennett, wife of Philip B. Harris, aged 19 years, 4 months and 13 days.  Mrs. Harris was born in Sherburne, and was beloved by all who knew her.  About 18 months ago she was a bride.  so her life seemed full of promise, but "Death loves a shining mark," and a cheerful and happy home is soon by him converted into a scene of deepest sorrow.  In her death, a young husband is suddenly bereft of an affectionate wife--a father and Mother of an only daughter, and a brother of an only sister.  She was calm and self possessed, and closed her eyes in death expressing her faith in Jesus, the Savior of sinners. This blessed hope seemed to rob Death of its sting, and prepare the Spirit to ascend to God who gave it.  "Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord."

Death Notices

Chenango Telegraph, September 12, 1860

WHITBY:  In South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., Orlo W. [Whitby], infant son of Flexman and Sara A. Whitby, aged 5 months and 3 days.

BEACH:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., Julia Beach, aged 59 years.

STOWELL:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Aug 23, Willard P. Stowell, aged 11 years.

MOORE:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], Aug. 25, Floyd Moore, aged 8 years.

NORRIS:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], Aug. 28th, Amanda Elizabeth Norris, only daughter of Isaac H. Norris, aged 10 years and 10 months.

EDMONDS:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Aug. 28th, Nelson Edmonds, aged 30 years.

CHENEY:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., after a severe and protracted illness, Mrs. Phila Cheney, wife of Russel Cheney, aged 59 years.

 

Mr. & Mrs. William C. Main - 60th Anniversary - 1915

Wedded Life of Sixty Years

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1915

 

William Carpenter Main

1832 - 1918

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The celebration of 50th wedding anniversaries has become a rather common occurrence, but instances are rare where the couple have reached the 60th milestone of wedding felicity and with the family circle still complete.  Mr. and Mrs. William C. Main, of South Broad street will reach their 60th anniversary on Saturday of this week. The event will be quietly recognized by relatives and friends, Mrs. Mary Smith, a sister of Mrs. Main, and her daughter Miss Louise Smith, of New York city, being among the guests.

Mr. Main has the distinction of being the veteran business man in Norwich, which is his native place.  He was born on what is now known as the McNitt farm on the southeast section of the town, July 14, 1832, the son of Mr. and Mrs. William F. Main.  His father followed the occupation of farming until his death at 65.  The son was educated at the union school near Mt. Upton and learned harness making with his uncle, Chester W. Carpenter, at Unadilla.  In 1850 he set up in business on his own account in Deposit, remaining there for two years during which he met among his acquaintances, Miss Martha E. Demander, who was destined to become his life partner.

 

Leaving Deposit, Mr. Main came to Norwich in 1852 and worked at his trade until 1854, when he again embarked in business for himself.  In the summer of 1855 he brought  his bride to Norwich, following their wedding, June 12.  They made their home on South Broad street in the residence recently remodeled by Judge John H. Hicks, removing later to the residence at the corner of South Broad and Division streets, which Mr. Main erected and where they have spent so many years together in the cheery companionship of each other and their only daughter, Miss Ada R. Main, and have drawn to themselves so many friends.

 

Both Mr. and Mrs. Main enjoy exceptional health and excellent spirits.  They maintain a lively interest in the affairs of Norwich in which they have seen so many changes during its evolution from an isolated village to a live, enterprising city.  They are deeply interested in the welfare of Emmanuel Church, of which they have been members so long.  Mr. Main recalls his first visit to Norwich as a boy.  It was during a political rally in the campaign of 1840, a young lad came with his father to see the sights.  he recalls that another visit was during the time when the First Baptist church was being erected. 

 

Mr. Main first carried on his harness business in Norwich in a wooden block on South Broad street that was razed to make room for this modern Turner building.  His business prospered and four years later he built the block where he is now located, but which he sold to Whit Stratton in 1874 and moved to the Summer store on the other side of South Broad street.  In 1877 he returned to the old Hill Block on the site of the present Turner building and has since been located in the Porter Block on South Broad and the Schneider building on Birdsall street before returning to the block he built about 1858 and now owned by John Storch.  From 1874 to 1892 he had as a business partner Henry F. Weeden, deceased, conducting the business alone during the other years. 

 

Mr. Main joined Norwich lodge, No. 302, F.&A.M. October 7, 1855, and in length of membership is the oldest Mason in the lodge.

_________________________________________________________

William Carpenter Main was born 14 July 1832 in Norwich, Chenango, NY the son of William and Submit (Carpenter) Main.  He married Martha E. Demander 12 June 1855 who died in December 1916.  Mr. Main died 12 February 1918.  They are buried in Mt. Hope cemetery, Norwich, NY.

The obituary of William Carpenter Main was posted to the Local History Notes blog on September 12, 2015.

Obituaries (August 5)

John Dorman

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1915

 

John Dorman

1867 - 1915

Norwich [Chenango Co, NY]:  John Dorman, the well-known Ontario & Western Railway conductor, who died at his home on Birdsall street late last Friday night, had been in the employ of the company for 26 years, during which he had made his home in Norwich.  For the last 15 years he had been a conductor.  Mr. Dorman was the son of John and Catherine Huntly Dorman and was born in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], November 16, 1867.  September 7, 1891, he married Miss Mary H. Coy, of East Pharsalia, who with two daughters, Ruth O. and Florence M. survives him.  He also leaves two brothers, Joel and Curtis W. Dorman, both residents of Norwich, and four sisters, Mrs. Homer Delevan, of Rockwell's Mills; Mrs. Lola Wells, of Norwich; Mrs. Robert Rockwood, of Guilford, and Mrs. Ada Loomis, of McGraw.  Deceased was an attendant of the Congregational Chruch and a man highly esteemed by all who knew him.  Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon, Rev. Paul R. Allen officiating and the Brotherhood of Railroad Conductors having charge of the services at the grave.  [Buried Mt. Hope Cemetery, Norwich, NY]

Burdette F. Hubbard

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1915

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The death of Burdette F. Hubbard, senior member of the drug firm of B.F. Hubbard & Son, which occurred Sunday morning at his home on Mitchell street after an illness of several months, removes one of the best known and highly respected business men of this city.  Burdette F. Hubbard was a son of Mr. and Mrs. James Hubbard, one of the leading families of the city, and was born April 9, 1859.  He was educated in the Norwich Academy.  One morning when 18 years of age, while on his way to school he suddenly decided to stop studying and went to work in Mitchell's drug store.  There he stayed for 20 years serving his apprenticeship and becoming a licensed pharmacist.  Later he purchased the drug store and business of George Hill, which was located in the Schorn Block. there he carried on a constantly growing business until the fire of November 16, 1914, when his stock was partly ruined by the fire. The business was immediately moved into the Jewel Block on East Main street, but after seeing it domiciled in its splendid new quarters Mr. Hubbard's health failed rapidly and he was compelled to relinquish the active management in his eldest son Burdette F.  Hubbard, Jr., whom he had taken into partnership February 2, 1912.  Mr. Hubbard was keenly interested in the welfare of the schools of this city and upon the death of dr. Robert Phelps he was appointed a member of the Board of Education of the Norwich public schools March 21, 1911.  At the next school meeting he was duly elected by the taxpayers and had been re-elected regularly since that date, being a member of the board and serving on several important committees at the time of this death.  Mr. Hubbard was a kindly, honest gentleman and a generous and loving husband and father.  He was allied with no fraternal organizations, preferring to spend the larger part of his time at home.  However, he had been a member of the old Alert Hose company, which was reorganized into the present one.  Mr. Hubbard is survived by his wife, three children, Miss Nellie, Burdette F. and Erwin Hubbard; a sister, Mrs. Dorn Dibble of Racine Wis., and two brothers, Erwin and Charles E. Hubbard, both of this city.  Funeral services were held from his late home Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. H.W. Foreman, rector of Emmanuel Church, officiating. Burial was made in the family plot in Mt. Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY]

George Nichols, Jr.

Otsego Journal, July 2, 1908

George Nichols, Jr., an industrious woodchopper, was found dead in the woods near Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY] in what is known as the "sheep-pen".  Mr. Nichols lived in a shack in the woods when working.  He was last seen alive on Wednesday by Charles Ostrander, who was working with him.  On Saturday night Mr. Nichols did not return to his home, and his family started a search, assisted by the neighbors, yesterday morning.  The body was found by Rasmus Nichols and Henry Nichols lying on the ground beside a tree, which he had been cutting on. The axe was beside the body.  Coroner Brownell of Oneonta was called and decided that death was due to heart trouble.  The body had evidently been lying in the position in which it was found for two or three days.  Mr. Nichols leaves his wife and three children.

Laura Hollenbeck

Cortland Democrat, May 24, 1918

Mrs. Laura Hollenbeck of Johnson City [Broome Co., NY] died Sunday in a hospital there after a short sickness with pneumonia. She will be brought here for burial Wednesday.  She is survived by her husband, Mr. Hollenbeck, Mrs. Richard Record of this place and Mrs. T. Hitchman and Mrs. Lottie Williams of Johnson City.  Mrs. Hollenbeck was a former resident here and for several years farmed it successfully on the farm now occupied by Frank Ripley.

Death Notices

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, August 14, 1901

ROSS:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], August 10, 1901, Mrs. James F. Ross, aged 63 years.

YALE:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], August 8, 1901, Laverne [Yale], son of Rev. Luman Yale, aged 35 years.

NICHOLS:  In Belfield, Va., August 6, 1901, Henry Nichols, formerly of West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]

FRASER:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], August 6, 1901, Nancy [Fraser], wife of Henry Fraser, aged 77 years.

BOGART:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], August 4, 1901, Henry Bogart, aged about 17 years.

BARNES:  In Preston [Chenango Co., nY] August 11, 1901, Kara Barnes, aged 78 years.

PALMER:  At the Masonic Home, Utica [Oneida Co., NY], August 10, 1901, John R. Palmer, aged 65 years, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Kathleen E. Sweet - graduates 1915

A Talented Norwich Elocutionist

Utica Saturday Globe,  June 1915

 

 

Kathleen E. Sweet

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Miss Kathleen E. Sweet, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E.E. [Edward Everett] Sweet of Henry street, has returned to her home here after graduating from the National School of Elocution and Oratory at Philadelphia, with the degree of B.E. which she has so well earned.  Miss Sweet possesses such exceptional dramatic ability that it was quickly recognized and her services were frequently sought for evening entertainments outside the school during her course as a student.  She is 19 years of age and a graduate of the Norwich  High School in the class of 1913. Since leaving the High School she has devoted her time and study to perfecting herself in elocution with the prospect of entering upon a dramatic career. She already has several flattering offers under consideration.

Obituaries (August 4)

George H. O'Connor

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1915

 

George H. O'Connor

1867 - 1915

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  After a week's illness of pneumonia, George H. O'Connor died at his home on East Main street recently.  Deceased was the son of David and Mary O'Connor and was born in Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] October 4, 1867,  When he was 11 years old his father died and in 1879, he with his mother came to Norwich to make their home.  After completing a course of study in the public schools he worked for a number of years for the New York, Ontario & Western Railway.  For 13 years he was the brewer at the Riverside brewery under the proprietorship of Thomas D. Scott and remained in that capacity for some time after the death of Mr. Scott.  For eight years he carried on the business of florist and gardener and during the last three years returned to the employ of the railroad company, working in the shops.  He was an industrious workman, an honest citizen, a devoted husband and father whose passing in the prime of his usefulness is sincerely mourned by his many friends.  September 14, 1896 he married Nora J. Hill of Norwich, who survives, with four children, Roderick J., Thomas D., George J. and Anna Mary.  He also leaves one brother, Edward C. O'Connor of Glasgow, Scotland.  Funeral services were held from his late home at 9 o'clock Monday morning and at 9:30 from St. Paul's Church where a high mass of requiem was said by Rev. Edward R. Prendergast.  During the service "Thy Will Be Done" was beautifully rendered by Miss Mary Finigan and Leon Doane sang impressively "Beautiful Tale of Somewhere."  Interment was made in St. Paul's Cemetery [Norwich, NY].   

 

Eva M. (Perkins) Moffitt

Syracuse Herald Journal, September 10, 1945

Mrs. Eva M. Moffitt of South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY] died Sunday in Norwich Memorial Hospital. She is survived by her husband, Ernest Moffitt; a brother, Earl Perkins of Homer, and a sister, Mrs. Minnie Fitzgerald of Syracuse.  Mrs. Moffitt was born Jan. 31, 1885 in Munnsville, daughter of Charles and Ruth Lewis Perkins. The funeral will be Tuesday, at 2 P.M. in the south Otselic Methodist church, the Rev. Guy F. Crawford officiating.  Burial will be in Valley View Cemetery at South Otselic.

 

W.M. Reynolds

DeRuyter Gleaner, February 2, 1933

W.M. Reynolds, 84 years of age, and practically a life-long resident of South Otselic [Chenango Co. NY] departed from our midst at 7:15 o'clock Friday morning.  January 27, 1933, at the home of his daughter, infirmities of old age being the cause of his death.  Having failed rapidly for the past three months, but being able to be around until six weeks ago at which time was the first of his being confined to the bed.  Born in the town of Otselic, March 4, 1848, Mr. Reynolds was the son of Willett and Lucy Ann Reynolds.  On February 7, 1872 at West Eaton occurred his marriage to Elvira Truman of Georgetown who died May 22, 1908 and to their union were born three children, Earl, Ethel and Layton, the latter of whom passed away fifteen years ago.  Besides being a tailor, Mr. Reynolds was also engaged in the carpenter's trade and with Irving Woodley was the leading carpenter in the building of the Cox block in 1890.  Later, he devoted his occupation to the printing business in which he was successful, then for about eighteen years was proprietor of the box factory in connection with the printing establishment then located in what is now F.B. Angell's house, until September 1, 1920, when he sold out of B. F. Gladding & Co.  It may be interesting to mention that the South Otselic Gazette, was printed during that time.  He was a member of the Arrah Wanna Rebekah Lodge for twenty-four years and also the oldest member of the I.O.O.F. Lodge of which he was a faithful attendant.  Surviving him are his daughter, Mrs. G.C. Dutton of South Otselic, a son, Earl Reynolds of Westfield, Mass. a brother Walter Reynolds of Preston, twelve grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren.  Funeral services in charge of Undertaker R.F. Smith of DeRuyter were held Monday at the home of G.C. Dutton, with Rev. J.C. Whitney officiating. Bearers were six of the grandchildren, Audley, Harmon and George Dutton, Gerald, Francis and Whitford Angell.  Interment was made in Otselic Valley View cemetery. 

John Nystrum

DeRuyter Gleaner, February 2, 1933

John Nystrum aged 70 years, a native of Sweden died at his home in Taylor Valley [Cortland Co., NY], Thursday afternoon.  He had been in ill health for the past few weeks following a paralytic shock Monday evening.  Joel and Edwin Nystrum of New York City have been with their father since he was taken ill.  The funeral was held Saturday at 2 at the late home, Rev. H.C. Sears, Cincinnatus, officiated.  Funeral Director G.E. French of Truxton was in charge of the services.  Burial was made in Oak Hill cemetery, Chicago, Ill.  He leaves to mourn his passing seven children, his wife dying a number of years ago. All the children being away from home except one son, Douglas, who stayed with his father.  Deceased was highly regarded and a large circle of friends extend sympathy to the bereaved family.

Death Notices

Chenango Union, October 6, 1887

WINSOR:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 2d, Nancy [Winsor], wife of Albert Winsor, aged 31 years.

FRENCH:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 3d, Mr. James French, aged 87 years.

ROSS:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], suddenly, Oct. 3d, Mr. William Ross, aged 65 years.

ROSA:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 27th, Mrs. Betsey Moore Ross, aged 84 years.

TELLER:  In South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 27th, 1887, Miss Ella Teller.

RHOADS:  In Otselic, N.Y. [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 27th, 1887, Minnie E. [Rhoads] only child of Cyrus G. and Edith E. Rhoads, aged 13 years, 7 months and 11 days.

 

ROCK:  In Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 2d, Vone Estella [Rock], daughter of W.F. and Ellen G. Rock, formerly of this village, aged 7 years, 1 month and 2 days.

 

TOUEY:  At Fort Stanton, New Mexico, Sept. 28th, Lieut. Timothy A. Touey, 5th Cavalry, U.S.A., aged 34 years, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

 

WEBSTER:  In Poolville, N.Y. [Madison Co.] Oct. 1st, Mr. Madison H. Webster, aged 75 years, step-father of Frank H. Dimmick, of  Norwich.

 

FOSGATE:  In Reily Township, N.Y., Sept. 16th, 1887, of diphtheria and membraneous croup Mamie Blanche [Fosgate], daughter of Philo B. and Mary E. Fosgate, aged 1 year, 6 months and 24 days.  Parents formerly of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY]

Dear little Mamie, thou art gone,

And left us sorrowing here;

We hope in heaven to meet thee,

Where falls no parting tear.

 

 

Obituaries (August 3)

Joseph Shampang

Norwich Sun, April 4, 1913

South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY]:  Joseph Shampang, a veteran of the Civil War and a member of Jackson Post G.A.R. of this village, was stricken with cerebral apoplexy at his home at White Store [Chenango Co., NY] Tuesday afternoon and died Wednesday night.  He is survived by his wife and two daughters and four sons.  The burial will be at White Store.

 

Mary Goodnow

Norwich Sun, April 4, 1913

South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY]:  Mrs. Mary Goodnow died Thursday night March 27.  Mrs. Goodnow was nearly 97 years of age but had been in good health with faculties well preserved until stricken with pneumonia three days before her death.  Mrs. Goodnow has made her home with her son, Darwin Goodnow, and his wife where every attention was given her.  The funeral was held Monday afternoon with burial in Riverview cemetery [South New Berlin, NY].

 

Alfred G. Bush

South New Berlin Bee, April 17, 1920

Alfred G. Bush died at his farm home on the east side of the river Wednesday, April 7, 1920, at about the noon hour.  Mr Bush was 71 years of age.  All his brothers are living, in the northern part of the State where he and his sister, Mrs. Joseph Shampang, deceased, always lived until they came here some 25 years ago.  Mrs. Shampang died at White Store in 1915, in the 73rd year of her age.  Mr. Bush was a prosperous farmer, a hard working man; always up in the morning with chores done and started for the creamery at S.N.B. before lots of people would be out of their beds.  He leaves a second wife, Janie White and a son, George, besides his nephews,  Henry, George, Frank, Fred, Archie Shampang, and two nieces, Mrs. George Law and Mrs. Ida Young; and the brothers referred to who live in the northern part of the State.  Funeral was held Saturday April 10 at 1:30, at  his late home--this day being his sister's and one nephew's birthday--Rev. R.O. Tulloch, of South New Berlin, officiating.  Burial at White Store; Linn Gage, undertaker.

Leon Parker

Norwich Sun, October 2, 1930

Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY]:  Leon Parker 23 years old died Thursday morning, September 25, after being sick several weeks with a complication of diseases. he was born April 1, 1907 in this town.  On July 1, 1924 he was married to Rebecca Drew who survives him, also three small children and his father Walter Parker.  The funeral was held at the home Saturday afternoon.  Rev. H.C. Sears officiated.  W.E. Newcomb had charge of the burial which was made at South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY]

Georgia Ethelinda Angell

Norwich Sun,  March 1930

South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY]:  The Heavenly Father ahs called to himself one of his precious jewels, and the sudden passing of Miss Georgia Angell leaves a sense of deepest loss not only to the stricken family but to the whole community.  In school or church, at play or in the home, her vacant place brings tender memories of a young girl whose cheery greeting encouraged older friends and whose wholesome character was a joy and a blessing to all those who shared her life.  In school it was her delight and ambition to cooperate with classmates and teachers in helping heartily to carry on. She was a member of the Sunshine Class of the M.E. church, belonged to the Camp Fire Girls, and will be sweetly remembered for her interest and enthusiasm in these two groups.  She always displayed the innocence of childhood in her love for little children as she bestowed a little mother's care on many youngsters in the neighborhood.  At the death of her father, George B. Angell, which occurred when Georgia was two years of age, she went to live with Dr. and Mrs. J. M Crumb.  To their home she brought the joys of heaven as hearts were bound together by ties of childhood love and affection so freely bestowed by uncle and aunt and in turn as freely reciprocated by herself.  Even though she grew up away from the direct care of her own mother and her own home, it did not detract from her love for them. She loved both homes and both families as her very own.  To her, Dr. Crumb was "the dearest uncle in the world."  His devotion and love began the moment she entered this world and did not end at her departure for, as Rev. Harry L Williams so beautifully reminded, "Love is eternal and never dies."  During the fleeting days of her brief illness, everything that medical skill and tender ministrations could do was of no avail to check the advance of the dread pneumonia which caused her death.  Her loved ones at the bedside were transported to heavenly heights by her sweet appreciation of them and her expressions of love for all.  She was very fond of flowers and loved the sight of the nearby trees and the rush of the little brook.  To all the members of her family and especially to Dr. and Mrs. Crumb who have been as devoted father and mother, the whole community expresses most heartfelt sympathy in this sad hour and earnestly prays and sincerely desires that they may nevertheless meet the duties and trials of coming days with courage and hope, letting the sacred and precious memories of the past be an inspiration to continue their work of helpfulness and blessing to the community as they have for these many years.  Georgia Ethelinda Angell was born in South Otselic on July 3, 1917, the fourth child of George B. and Leora C. Angell and died at the home of her uncle, Dr. J.M. Crumb, march 14, at the tender age of 12 years, 8 months and 11 days. She is survived by a loving mother, Mrs. Leora C. Angell; a sister, Catharine and a brother, Kenyon; also three half brothers, Lynn B., Earl J. and F.B., besides her several aunts and uncles.  private funeral services were held at the home of Dr. and Mrs. Crumb on Monday at 2 p.m., Rev. Harry L. Williams of Tully, a former pastor, officiating with the assistance of Rev. Harold Steer.  Interment was made in Valley View cemetery [South Otselic, NY] under the direction of Undertaker Charles H. Woodley. The profusion of beautiful flowers testified to the affection of many friends at home and away.

Andrew J. Coffee

Norwich Sun, March 1930

White Store [Chenango Co., NY]:  Andrew J. Coffee died, March 18, at the home of his son, George, in Clayville.  Mr. Coffee was a much respected resident of this place for a number of years.  he was born at Barkhamsted, Conn., 88 years ago coming to this community when a young man.  He followed the occupation of farmer. Early in life he was married to Mina Cheney, and to them was born one son, who with his family has most tenderly and faithfully cared for  his father in his declining years.  Mr. and Mrs. Coffee lived a few years on a farm near East Guilford coming from there to the Cheney homestead, where they lived until about seven years ago when they went to Clayville and made their home.  Mrs. Coffee, passed away there years ago since which Mr. Coffee has been very lonely always wishing to go where she was.  He has been very feeble all winter, although he was up and around until the last few days when pneumonia developed.  he went to sleep like a tired child Tuesday evening at 7:20.  Mr. Coffee was a man of splendid character, a good neighbor and friend, always interested in the upbuilding of the community.  He was a member of the M.E. church.  He leaves to mourn his passing his only son George, and wife and three granddaughters, and his many friends.  His funeral was held at the home in Clayville, Friday at 11 a.m., and a short service at the White Store church, Friday, March 21 at 2 p.m. with burial beside his wife in Evergreen cemetery.  The family wish to thank the friends for their kindness and help at the burial of their father. 

Captain James Tyrrell, 17th NY Infantry

A Touching Incident

Parting With His Old Sword to Obtain Bread

New Era Gleaner, December 10, 1885

At Waverly [Tioga Co., NY], a short time ago, Captain James Tyrrell, of Company H., 17th N.Y. Volunteers, disposed of his old sword through necessity.  The captain is aged and infirm and in indigent circumstances, and the fact that the "Republics are ungrateful" was never more truly said or more forcibly demonstrated than in the case of Captain Tyrrell, than whom no nobler citizen soldier ever went forth to battle for his country.  He receives no pension, and being too old and infirm to work, was obliged to part with his treasured sword to obtain bread.

 

Charles H. Turney held the lucky  number that drew the sword.  He gave it back to the brave old captain who received it with trembling hands, and tears falling from his eyes.  "I thank you Mr. Turney.  I shall keep the sword now, and never part with it."  It was all the old man could say, but amidst the tremendous cheering that followed, there was many a tear-bedimmed eye.  Comrade Denel said in behalf of himself and Hull Post, G.A.R., that their brave captain should never want while they had a dollar.

 

On April 10, 1846, Captain Tyrrell received a letter from R.E. Temple, adjutant general, of Albany, to organize a company of volunteers for the Mexican war.  The captain went to work and reported with his full company to General Temple, at Albany, in less than a week afterward.  In April 1861, he issued a call for volunteers, and raised Company H in Oxford and Norwich, called the "Chenango Boys," of which he was captain.  They were in the 17th New York regiment and served with distinction.  Before leaving, the ladies of Oxford and Norwich presented the company with a beautiful silk banner, inscribed "Chenango Boys of New York."  They feared it would meet the same fate in Baltimore as the Massachusetts banner did.  It was then and there that Captain Tyrrell made his famous speech, in which he assured the ladies and friends "that they would carry that banner safely through Baltimore, or through hell if need be."  He has been in ill health and needy for a long time, but too modest to make his wants known.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, December 16, 1885

Capt. Tyrell will be remembered by many Chenango people. The company he organized was the first which went out of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] for the war.  They left Monday morning April 29th, 1861 fourteen days after Sumpter was attacked.  Previous to their departure they paraded the streets, elected James Tyrell, Captain, Joel O. Martin 1st Lieut. and E.P. Pellett 2d Lieut. and then formed upon the west park in front of the court house for a final farewell.  There a committee of ladies presented each man with a copy of the new testament, after which Rev. Lyman Wright offered prayer.  The company then marched up North Broad street to the top of the hill, where they took teams for Utica.  Almost the entire population of Norwich accompanied them up the street and watched them as they disappeared towards the north.

 

Died

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, August 28, 1886

TYRRELL:  At Waverly, N.Y., August 19th, Captain James Tyrrell, aged 69 years, formerly of Norwich.

 

Waverly Free Press, August 1886

Captain James Tyrrell, who has been sick for many months, is near the "dark shore," his death being looked for daily.  He has been a great sufferer, and during the last three years has been unable to do but little manual labor.  He has been suffering with dropsy for some time, and we are informed that the blood was forced through the skin of his limbs, until it run in pools upon the floor.

 

Later:  Mr. Tyrrell died at four o'clock Thursday afternoon.  His remains will be taken to Oxford, Chenango county, for interment.

 

Death of Captain James Tyrell

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, September 1, 1886

On Thursday, August 19th, at his residence in Waverly, N.Y. Captain James Tyrell, formerly a resident of this place, died in the 69th year of his age.  His remains were brought to Oxford by his son and the commander of the G.A.R. post at Waverly, and interred in the cemetery Saturday afternoon.  Edward E. Breed post, G.A.R, of Oxford, acted as an escort from the depot and conducted the ceremonies at the grave according to the ritual of the order.

 

Captain Tyrell was born in Burlington, Vermont, and moved into this state when a young man.  He always had a liking for military matters, and when the Mexican war broke out was one of the first of offer his services to the state.  He received a letter from the adjutant general April 10th, 1846 which authorized him to enlist a company of volunteers for the war.  In less than a week he reported at Albany, with a full company.

 

After the expiration of his term of service, he settled in Oxford, but soon removed to Norwich.  Here he became identified with the state militia and was made captain of the Norwich artillery company, which was attached to the old 41st regiment.  He was very popular with his men and soon had his militia soldiers well in hand and thoroughly perfected in the manual of arms and field evolutions.  In those times when Capt. Tyrell marched at the head of his troops armed with long muskets and glittering bayonets, dressed in gorgeous uniforms, tall hats and waving feathers, having two brass six pounders and cannons drawn by spirited horses, dove tailed among the steady platoons and headed by a full military band under the leadership of Jim Wescott and his famous bugle--Uncle Charlie playing the fife--training days were holidays for the boys, rare and wonderful, from the moment the first uniform appeared with the early dawn till company dismission at the old armory, at set of sun.  The present era supplies the small boy with nothing to fill their places.

 

When the war of the rebellion broke out, Captain Tyrell came immediately to the front.  The news of the attack on Fort Sumpter was received here Saturday, April 13th.  On the 15th it surrendered.  On the 17th Captain Tyrell had opened headquarters at the American  hotel and was enlisting men.  Monday morning, April 29th, he and his company went to the front.  The men were sworn into service at New York and became Co. H of the 17th Regt. N.Y. Volunteers. The circumstances attending the departure of the first Norwich volunteers were detailed in the issue of The Telegraph Dec. 16th, 1885, in connection with the story of Capt. Tyrell's sword which was then printed.

 

After his return from the service, Capt. Tyrell removed to Waverly, where he remained until his death.

"Under rest, Thy warfare o'er"



 

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, April 11, 1891

"Thirty years ago," said an old veteran to the Listener, "one of the most prominent men in Norwich was Captain James Tyrrell.  This was due to the fact that he was captain of the Norwich Artillery Company in the old 41st Regiment of State Militia, and was talking war all the time.  The Captain made good his words by enlisting immediately after Sumpter was fired upon.  He led to the front the first company of Chenango volunteers.  They were attached to the 17th N.Y. or Westchester Chasseurs.  Joel O. Martin, a teacher in the Academy, was his First lieutenant, who after going through four years' service committed suicide by stabbing himself to death with a penknife. E. Port Pellett, now in Barranquilla, South America, went out as Second Lieutenant.  It was as a militia Captain, however, that Tyrrell achieved his greatest laurels.  In the fall of '60 his company had a parade and sham fight, in the open field, which belonged to Tom Henry Lewis, and through which Canasawacta Street now runs.  I was in the ranks. A man named Teale played one of the bass drums in the band that parade day.  While marching around, Teale espied a tree loaded with apples.  Dropping out of the ranks, he picked some of them and began to eat.  Presently Captain Tyrrell saw him.  Angered by such a breach of discipline, he became so excited he could not recall Teale's name, but the way in which Teale was putting down the apples suggested a simile.  'Hey there,' he cried, waving his sword, 'Hey there, you damned old Cider mill, get back into the ranks.'  The recalcitrant musician got, and such was the discipline and solemnity of the occasion, not a soldier smiled."

Obituaries (August 2)

Elizabeth Miner

Brookfield Courier, December 2, 1891

Died, of heart disease, in South Otselic, Chenango Co., Nov. 4, 1891, Elizabeth Miner, aged 64 years.  She married Joshua Miner in 1847.  She also united with the Baptist church, when young, and remained a member of that church until she became satisfied that there was no foundation for Sunday keeping in the Bible or for the conscious state of the dead, and consequently, she embraced views held by the Seventh Day Adventists.  Her strong mind enabled her to obtain a remarkable knowledge of the Bible.  The financial element in her character was such as but few women possess.  It seems as if she knew she was seeing her friends for the last time, as during the past year she visited two of her brothers in Fon du Lac, one in Chautauqua and one in Brookfield, and her daughter in Chicago, and many other relatives.  She leaves two sons and a daughter and four brothers to mourn their loss, but we have laid her away to await the morning of the first resurrection, when the Archangels last trumpet shall sound, and the saints come forth, , clothed with immortality and eternal life, all fitted for a home in the kingdom of God, where parting will never come.     Henry Main

 

Caroline (Brown) Chapel

Cortland Democrat, September 3, 1915

South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY]:  On Friday last, Aug. 27, Mrs. Caroline Chapel, a life-long resident of this village died at her home at the age of 78 years, 4 months, 6 days.  A daughter of Ephriam and Orilla Brown, she was born April 21, 1837, and united in marriage with Lewis Cook in 1854. Four children blessed this union, all of whom are living.  Mrs. Dever Higgins, Mrs. Stephen Ryan and Judson L. Cook of Norwich and Mrs. C,H. Woodley.  She is survived by fifteen grandchildren, also two sisters, Mrs. Jerry Starkweather and Mrs. Emily Rogers, both of Rochester.  In 1881 her husband died and five years later she married Daniel Chapel March 16, who died March 21, 1896.  Mrs. Chapel was a member o the Methodist church and had cultivated a patient Christian disposition which was evidenced especially during her last days and years. She had been in poor health for several years and for the last nine months confined to her bed.  The respect of our community and the loving care of those near to her not only by words of tribute and the large gathering of friends and relatives, but by the love and kindnesses of the past shown during her living days surely prove that her life was filled with love and thoughtfulness. Rev. E.J. Yerden, assisted by Rev. J.T. Phillips officiated and Clayton Heath, funeral director of Cincinnatus attended.  Burial was made in the Valley View cemetery [South Otselic, NY]

Lana (Wright) Hubbard

Afton Enterprise, February 8, 1900

Lana Hubbard died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Robert Searles, in Afton [Chenango Co., NY] Feb. 4th, 1900.  Her maiden name was Lana Wright, and she was born in Seward, Schoharie Co., N.Y., April 8, 1821.  In 1840 she was married to John Houck of Seward.  Mrs. Searles being the only surviving child of that union.  Living a widow several years, Mrs. Houck afterward married Mr. Oliver Hubbard of Elk Creek, Otsego Co. with whom she lived eighteen years.  After his death she made her home with Mr. and Mrs. Robert Searles of Afton.  These were years of suffering for the mother and of care for the daughter and her husband, and well did they fulfill their mission of loving care.  Some of the last of her life were scenes of intense suffering   Oft times in some of her lucid moments she was heard trying to sing snatches of those old hymns which have cheered many a dying Christian:  "Rock of Ages cleft for me, Let me hide myself in thee; "Bring forth the Royal Diadem, and crown His Lord of all; So daughter and loving friends are happy to think at the last, that her thoughts and song laid hold of "The mighty to save" and the "Glorified One."  She was buried from the home of Robert Searles, East Side, Afton, Feb. 6th, Rev. B.B. Carruth conducting the services.  A.J. Holmes, funeral director of Afton, was in charge, and burial in beautiful Glenwood [Afton, NY].

Georgianna (Coy) Searles

Bainbridge Republican, February 12, 1914

Mrs. Georgianna, widow of the late Herrick E. Searles, died at the home of her sister, Mrs. F.W. Hopkins, at South Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Saturday evening, January 31, 1914, aged 72 years.  She had been in declining health for several years.  She was born in Turrin, Lewis Co., Oct. 23, 1841,.  She was the daughter of David and Lucy Coy and was married to Herrick E. Searles in 1863.  They came to Bainbridge in 1873 where they resided about 40 years, then moving to Unadilla Center where Mr Searles died about six years ago.  Mrs. Searles was well known here by the older people in town, she being an experienced dressmaker.  She was a member of the M.E. church in this village for many years and was transferred by letter to the church at Unadilla Center where she remained a faithful worker until her death.  After the death of her husband, she made her home with her sister, Mrs. F.W. Hopkins at South Oxford.  Mrs. Searles leaves an adopted daughter, Mrs. J.B. Williams of this village, one sister, Mrs. F. Hopkins of South Oxford, and one brother, O.W. Coy of Ohio, and several nieces and nephews.  After a prayer at the late home the remains were brought to Bainbridge Tuesday Feb. 3, where the funeral services were held in the M.E. Church at 1:30p.m. and were largely attended.  The Rev. J.S. Crompton, pastor of the High Street M.E. church Binghamton officiated owing to the illness of Rev. Frank James, Interment in St. Peter's cemetery [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] beside her husband.

Freelove Sarles

Northern Christian Advocate, 1853

Freelove, wife of Abner Sarles, died of dropsy and liver complaint, in Bainbridge, Chenango Co., N.Y., Feb. 15th, 1853, aged 73 years.  Sister Sarles experienced religion near thirty years ago, and united with the M.E. Church as the Church of her choice, and has been a worthy member and consistent Christian till her death, which was in great peace and holy triumph. The writer of this notice has been acquainted with sister S. 18 years, all of which, she was uniform in piety.  Two of her attendants say they conversed with her freely relative to her feelings. She told them she saw her Savior, and said to Bro. Sarles, "don't you see him?"  The last few years of her life she wasn't able to sing, but during her sickness, could repeat a good many hymns she had learned. A few days before she died, she sang "Jesus, my all, to Heaven is gone," etc.  Sister Sarles' moral worth was known as an helpmeet, an affectionate companion; a tender hearted mother of 17 children; 9 of whom died when young; 8 are still living, and 7 of this last number are members of the M.E. Church; also the grandmother and great-grandmother of many more.  She has left a large circle of relatives, neighborsand friends to mourn their heavy loss.

 

"Thou are gone to the grave, we no longer deplore thee,

Since God is thy ransom, thy guardian and guide;

He gave thee, he took thee, but soon will restore thee,

Where death hath no sting since the Savior hath died."

John Moon, West Bainbridge, March 13, 1853

 

 

Early History of Afton, Chenango Co. NY - Part 2

Brief History of Town of Afton, Chenango Co., NY

by Hillis Craig

Afton Enterprise, March 4, 1926

 

Continuation of posting of July 29, 2016

 

The Benton family, noted for their great wealth, built up the section of what is now middle Bridge.  Hotels and gristmills sprang up there.  There used to be a bridge across the river at this point, which was later washed out by a flood.

 

In 1790, the first log schoolhouse was built with Nathaniel Church as teacher.

 

Daniel S. Buck was the greatest hunter in the town of Afton.  He was said to have killed many panthers.

 

The Afton newspaper used to be called "The Afton Home Sentinel" which was edited by John Seaman.  Later it changed its name to "The Afton Enterprise."

 

Afton Lake was formerly call Pratt's Pond.

 

The Phelps House was a large hotel which burned to the ground in Afton and was replaced by the Central Hotel, now called the Afton Inn, which is now operated by Mr.  Hill.

 

There used to be an old academy (Union School) in place of the present High School.

 

There used to be five churches, now only four; there being no Universalist church now.

 

One of the chief factories located in Afton was the sash and blind factory which was destroyed by fire about 1908.  there were also three hotels at that time, instead of two.  There were thirteen stores and a population of 700 in the village at that time.

 

There was a beautiful suspension bridge laid across the Susquehanna River which was blown away by  a fearful tornado and was later rebuilt by the bridge company.  The latter was very unsafe and was carried away by an ice floe in eighteen months.  The bridge company then agreed to replace it by a good substantial bridge. This was done and the bridge lasted for a considerable length of time until it was torn down and the present structure was built. 

 

A saw and gristmill was located near what is known as Pixley's Glenn and was operated by Asa Pixley.

 

The first store was operated by E.M. Johnson on the present site of Gregg's barn at Bettsburg.  Later the store was operated by Charles Seeley who is now living [in 1926].

 

Joseph Smith, the author of Mormonism, spent much of his life in what is now the dining hall of the Afton Fair grounds.  He was married there.

 

Afton suffered two serious fires.  The first or great fire burned all of the east side of Main street, which included most of the business section.  Later, after these wooden structures were rebuilt with brick, the west side of the street suffered loss by fire, which included buildings on the land where the Morgan Bros.' block now stands.  This of course was rebuilt with brick.  Although these were terrible fires, they caused Afton to have as fine structures in the business section as are found in any village of its size. 

 

About thirty years ago, the village was incorporated and was improved in many ways. The village water system was put into play and is considered one of the purest water systems in new York state.  The water is carried from Vallonia Springs to Afton through pipes.  Electric lights were introduced in 1917.

 

The Union School or Academy was changed into a High School in 1899.  It was replaced with the present High School in 1908.

 

In 1918, plans were made for a factory for the manufacture of Anaro films in connection with the plant in Binghamton.  Until June 1924, there were two dairy plants in operation in Afton.  "The Borden Plant" and "The Dairymen's League." Later the former was bought by the non-pooltrs.  This plant was partly burned in July of that year.  It was bought by the poolers (Dairymen's League), and the old one was closed and is now used as a feed store.

 

The End

 

 

 

Marriages (August 1)

Brown - Goodsell

DeRuyter Gleaner, August 12, 1909

Mott D. Brown and Miss Esther Goodsell were married by Rev. J. C. Whitney Aug. 6, 1909.  congratulations.

 

Baldwin - Maine

Cortland Democrat, January 18, 1962

Mr. Neal C. Baldwin and Mrs. Estella Maine were married at the home of the bride on new Year's Day. Rev. William Wilkinson performed the ceremony.  The newlyweds are in New York.

 

Bunnell - Haynes

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, January 4, 1890

Miss Caroline Haynes was married on Wednesday evening last at her residence in this place to Bradley Bunnell of Pen Yan.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. J.H. Lynch.  An elegant supper was served under the management of Alanson Ferris, the celebrated caterer.  Numerous friends and relatives were present, among whom were David Bunnell and family from Washington. The bride and groom have the good wishes of all for their future happiness and prosperity. 

\

Grant - Bresee

Afton Enterprise, January 28, 1915

On Thursday, January 21, 1915, at the home of Mr. and Mrs. C.J. Bresee in South Main street, their daughter Aurelia [Bresee] was married to Daniel Grant, Rev. A.A. Bresee, Bishop of Reading, Lehighton, Pa., an uncle of the bride, was the officiating clergyman.  Mrs. Grant has been supervisor of drawing in the public schools of Mechanicsville for the last three years, and Mr. Grant is Postmaster of Afton.  The happy couple took a brief wedding trip, returning to Afton Tuesday night, where they will in the future make their home.  The Enterprise joins their many friends in extending hearty congratulations. 

 

Decker - Bisbee

Afton Enterprise, April 16, 1925

The home of Mr. and Mrs. James Bisbee of Jackson Avenue, Susquehanna, was the scene of a pretty wedding Saturday morning at 10:00 o'clock, when their daughter, Miss Mildred Bisbee, became the bride of Bernett H. Decker of Afton.  The double ring ceremony was performed by Rev. Webster Bouton of Syracuse, assisted by Rev. W.M. Watrous of the Susquehanna M.E. Church.  The bride was charmingly attired in white crepe and carried a shower bouquet of white carnations, and was given away by her father, Mr. Bisbee.  The wedding march was played by Miss Sylvia Bisbee, and preceding the ceremony a very appropriate solo was sweetly sung by Miss Marion Bisbee, both young ladies being sisters of the bride.  Many friends and relatives were in attendance.  Mrs. Decker is one of Susquehanna's highly accomplished women.  She is a graduate of Syracuse University and has been teaching history and English in the Afton High School.  Mr. and Mrs. Decker left for a wedding trip to Washington, DC., and on their return will reside in Afton.  They received many costly wedding presents.

 

W.W. Bassett Accused of Abandoning Family

Chenango Union, September 9, 1897

The Sunday Syracuse Herald says:  "W.W. Bassett is locked up at police headquarters and tomorrow he will have to confront his wife who, with their two children, it is alleged, he abandoned at Smyrna, Chenango county, a year and a half ago.  Mrs. Bassett, it is declared, was unable to locate him until recently, when she heard he was in this city [Syracuse, Onondaga Co., NY].  It is alleged that he has been passing himself off as an unmarried man and that he was engaged to marry a young woman of this city in July last, but for some reason or other the wedding did not take place.  It is asserted that there were two other  young ladies whose hearts he had captured, and that he is a gay Lothario.

 

"All of which he, however, denies, although he will not discuss his case and the police, when bail was offered for him last night, thought bail ought not to be accepted.  So Bassett will have to spend Sunday in the tanks.  And it is said that Bassett rented two farms near Jamesville, that he stripped them of everything he could sell and then refused t pay the rent.  But this is probably a civil matter and must be disposed of in a court other than the police court.  Bassett intimates that he will be able to meet all the charges when the proper time comes."

 

 

Obituaries (August 1)

Jennie McMillian

DeRuyter Gleaner, March 28, 1946

She suffered a stroke a few hours previous to her death.  Mrs. McMillian was 84 years of age.  She was a member of the local Methodist church which she attended as long as she was able.  A step-daughter Mrs. Anna Brown of Norwich and a niece, Mrs. Melissa Northup of Chenango Forks are the nearest surviving relatives.  Mrs. McMillian has been tenderly cared for by a neighbor Mrs. Louise Higgins during her illness.  Funeral services were held at the home Monday afternoon Rev. G.F. Crawford officiating.  Funeral Director Kenneth C. Davis in charge.  Arkley Baldwin, Clayton Miner, Fred Peak and Lewis Brown acted as bearers.  Burial by the side of her husband James McMillian in Valley View cemetery. [South Otselic, Chenango Co., NY]

 

Frank E. Jackson

DeRuyter Gleaner, May 21, 1931

Born in Preston [Chenango Co., NY], June 6th, 1870 and died at South Otselic, N.Y. [Chenango Co.] May 15th, 1931, aged nearly 61 years.  Frank Jackson was a son of Andrew and Mariah Jackson.  His early life was spent in Pharsalia where he attended school and worked for one of Pharsalia's prominent farmers, John Luther.  His reliability as a young farmer brought him into the employ of Berthier Mathewson and other successful agriculturists.  His experience with many of such men gave him a valuable background. At the age of 22 he was married to Elizabeth Brown who died five years later.  On October 22nd, 1898, he was married to Gertrude McKee of South Otselic and one child blessed the union.  Nearly all of the later years of life of the deceased were spent in this vicinity.  In addition to farming he drove the Norwich-South Otselic stage for four years and was employed for about fifteen years by the B.F. Gladding co., until nearly a year ago when failing health caused him to retire.  He was ambitious and illness caused him much uneasiness when he was unable to work.  For a year prior to his death he was under the doctor's care and obliged to remain in bed.  The last days brought much suffering and the end came as a relief to a body and mind sore distressed.  Interment was made in Valle View Cemetery [South Otselic, NY] under the direction of Chas. F. Woodley.

Augusta Swailes

DeRuyter Gleaner, February 14, 1907

Mrs. John F. Swailes died on Wednesday last at the home of her brother, Fred Raider, who also died Saturday morning.  Mrs. Swailes funeral was held at the home of her adopted daughter, Mrs. Charles E. Wilbur.  Interment was made in Valley View cemetery [South Otselic, Chenango Co., NY] by the side of her husband who was buried the Tuesday previous.  Thus a husband and wife and a brother were buried within a week, the cause of death in each case being pneumonia.  Mr. Raider's funeral was  held at his late home Monday afternoon.  Rev. Benjamin Rowe officiating.  Undertaker Woodley conducted the burial in Valley View cemetery.  Deceased is survived by a son, John, and a daughter, Mrs. Ira L. Sherman, all of this place.

 

Carlton Tallmadge

Afton Enterprise & Harpursville Budget, May 22, 1952

Carlton Tallmadge, 68, of Bainbridge R.D. [Chenango Co., NY] died last week Thursday in the Bainbridge Hospital.  He is survived by is wife, Mrs. Helen Tallamdge, a son Graydon, both of Bainbridge, a daughter, Mrs. Egbert Riley, of Afton; 10 grandchildren, a sister, Mrs. Sidney Simmons of Rock Royal, several nieces and nephews. The funeral service was held Sunday at the fisher Funeral Home in Bainbridge.

Abner Sarles

Northern Christian Advocate, 1854

Abner Sarles died in Bainbridge, Chenango county, N.Y., April 2d, 1854, in the 80th year of his age.  Br. Sarles experienced religion in Dutchess county, about 56 years ago, and united with the M.E. Church.  Br. Sarles moral worth was most developed in his uniformity.  He was always at his post, as far as practicable, at preaching, and the other public and private duties.  The family altar was early erected; his worthy companion was truly a help, but the Lord gave her, and took her away a year ago, blessed be his name, yet the altar remained.  He read the Bible, as long as he could see to read. When he could see no longer for he gradually failed from the death of his wife till he died, he would kneel and pray; when he could kneel no longer, would sit in his chair and pray; when he could sit no longer, would pray on his bed, and prayer and praising God he seemed to delight in.  We trust he has gone where "prayer is sweetly lost in praise, and faith in sight is swallowed up."  May the surviving relatives improve and profit by this ---ictive providence.   John Moon, West Bainbridge, April 27, 1854.

Alvin Searles

Chenango Union, May 17, 1906

Alvin Searles died Sunday night at the home of his brother, Thomas E. Searles, on West Main st., of thrombosis and old age.  He was 79 years old, and is survived by two brothers, Thomas E., of Bainbridge and Berton M., of Iowa.  Mr. Searles was a well to do retired farmer and was one of the first settlers of Searles Hill [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].

Lester B. Searles

Cooperstown, Otsego Farmer & Republican, April 1916

Lester B. Searles, for many years a leading, respected resident of the town of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], died Saturday at the home of his brother-in-law, Gaylord Church, in Unadilla.  He had not been in the best of health for several years, but the immediate cause of his death was a shock which he suffered only a few minutes before his death.  Mr. Searles was born in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], October 27, 1839, and was twice married, his first wife being Celestia Prindle of Harpursville and his second, who survives him, Miss Addie A. Hallock.  He enlisted in the rebellion as a member of Company A, of the Fifty-first New York volunteers and after serving one and a half years and receiving a gun shot wound in the left arm, was honorably discharged.

Arthur Elwyn Searles

Guilford Mail, October 1894

On February 8, 1894 a black eyed boy came to gladden the home of Homer A. and Mary Manwaring Searles in Binghamton, N.Y.  Two and one half years ago their little girl Florence Marion an only child was taken, only 22 days old, and so when little Arthur came he was loved all the more, but in spite of tender care, brain trouble developed as the result of teething and baby closed his beautiful eyes on earth after intense suffering Friday 2 a.m. Aug. 17, to open them in that heavenly home where sister Florence and Grandpa and Grandma Manwaring were awaiting him.  Physician and nurse remarked on the wonderful patience of the little sufferer and this seems to prove the sustaining power of God to even the smallest.  Services were held at their home in Binghamton Sunday, Aug. 19, the house was filled with flowers loving hands had arranged to brighten the gloom. The empty bed and carriage were by his side, one mass of flowers, "Gates Ajar" of white roses and smilax were at the head, the dove hovering so lovingly over the little white casket. Remarks were made by Rev. Wm. Frisby who had stood by the family to bury Grandpa and Grandma Manwaring from the old home in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].  He tried to direct the thoughts of the heart broken parents to the "New Heaven and New Earth" promised in Revelations, and that they again should see the same baby now lying in the casket only more glorified.  That night loving hands lowered the little body beside his sister in Green lawn Cemetery at Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] to await the resurrection day.  

 

Post Listing, July 26-31, 2016

Listing of blog postings for the week of July 26-31.

Marriages

Posted July 25, 2016

Esther M. Westcott - Claude I. Mallard (1915)

Jesse Spencer - Charles Gilbert (1887)

Marriage notices - 1875

     Morris F. Lyon - Eliza Bisbe

     Albert b. Clarke - Emily K. Bissel

     Emerson A. Gale - Ida M. Beardsley

     Charles Howard - Hattie Gould

     Harry Lyon - Mary F. Martin

     McHenry Lamb - Vavilla Russel

 

Obituaries

Posted July 25, 2016

Fred Asa Secor (South Plymouth, 1941)

Mary Spencer Coleman (North Pharsalia, 1943)

Fred Leonard Willcox (North Pharsalia, 1942)

Hubert A. Steere (Norwich, 1941)

Adrian W. Tallett (Cortland, 1934)

Floyd Brown (South Otselic, 1935)

Posted July 26, 2016
Mrs. Charles S. Butler (Binghamton, 1925) accidental asphyxiation
Grace (Green) Stevens (Afton, 1925)
Leslie T. Brown (South Otselic, 1935)
Warren H. Woodward (South Otselic, 1935)
John A. Murray (South Otselic, 1935)

Posted July 27, 2016
Milton Eugene Reynolds (South Otselic, 1933)
Clara Brown (South Otselic, 1933)
Harley D. Priest (Cortland, South Otselic, 1935)
Mary E. (Sliter) Kelly (Bainbridge, 1914)
Robert Sliter (Norwich, 1907)  Civil War veteran
Charles Hodge (Bainbridge, 1894)

Posted July 28, 2016
William W. Higgins (Otselic Center, 1904)
Angie Pike Bush (South Otselic, 1951)
Elnora m. Bassette (Interlaken, 1951)
Jennie E. Lamphere (Norwich, 1934)
Andrus Doolittle (West Bainbridge, 1925)
Susanna Ruth Avery Mumford (Starucca PA, 1926)

Posted July 29, 2016
Albert J. Wildman (South Otselic, 1883)
Joseph A. Tice (Cincinnatus, 1929)
Addie E. Doolittle (Afton, 1932)
Deborah Ann Doolittle (Bainbridge, Oxford, 1911)
Maude Wykes Doolittle (Bainbridge, 1926)
Death Notices - 1899
     Eliza J. Doolittle (West Bainbridge)
     Emily M. Baker (North Colesville)
     Ellen M. Peck (Oxford)
     DeWitt E. Northrup (Norwich)

Posted July 30, 2016
Chester Wentworth (DeRuyter, 1933)
Max Eugene Reynolds, Jr. (Pleasant Ridge, 1933) accidental shooting
Hannah Huttleston (South Huttleston, 1934)
Fred Brown Sanford (Nineveh, Harpursville, 1926) accidental drowning
Death Notices - 1875
     E.W. Benedict (Smithville, Ogdensburg)
     Roxana LaSelle (North Plains, Earlville)
     Emerson Brooksbanks (Oxford)
     Henry Cole Marietta, GA, Guilford)
     James W. Farr (NYC, Norwich)
     Seth Rowley (Yaleville, New Berlin)

Posted July 31, 2016
Harriet Flowers Russell (North Norwich, 1892)
Mrs. J.H. Burdick (Syracuse, 1892)
Mrs. Paul R. Miner (Norwich, 1892)
Benjamin Z. Colton (South New Berlin, 1892)
Charles Anable (North Afton, 1926)
Dr. DeWitt Crumb (South Otselic, 1908)
Charlotte M. Fisher (South Otselic, 1909)



 

Miscellaneous

 

Posted July 26, 2016

Reminiscences of Early "Jericho," as told by Melissa Landers Wilkins.

Posted July 29, 2016
Early History of Afton, Chenango Co., NY - Part 1