Bruckhausen Park, Norwich NY - 1921

Beautiful Bruckhausen Park May Be Used as a Playground

Utica Saturday Globe, February 1921

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At a recent meeting of the City Council, F. Leonard Burchard appeared in behalf of the heirs of the late Dr. Bruckhausen and presented the matter of the use of the park bearing the doctor's name as a playground for the smaller children of the city.  The plot is located between Division and Hale Streets and was left to the city with the proviso that certain improvements be made and merited care bestowed upon it.

 

A part if not all of the conditions have been met.  The property was enclosed with iron fences fronting the streets and with wire fencing along the sides which now needs to be replaced.  Avenues of shade trees were set out and a fountain and flower beds were added to the adornment.  During the period of the world War, the park suffered somewhat from neglect and had become a mecca for the mischievous children of the neighborhood.  The playground proposition was referred to the park committee.

Death of Gilbert Sage Gibson (December 31)

Gilbert Sage Gibson

Utica Saturday Globe, February 1917

 

Gilbert Sage Gibson

1896 - 1917

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The first death of a Norwich boy in the service came as a shock to the entirety when it was announced at the Junior Red Cross entertainment at the High School, Wednesday evening that a telegram had just bene received telling of the death of Gilbert Sage Gibson son of Superintendent of Schools and Mrs. Stanford J. Gibson, which occurred at Camp Jackson, Columbia, South Carolina.  Late Wednesday afternoon, Supt. Gibson received the telegram from the commandant at the camp, stating that his son had died that day and asking as to the disposition of the remains.  Mr. Gibson wired for the War Department to send the body home and also wired the captain of his son's company asking for information as to the cause of his son's death, but at this writing no particulars have been received.  Tuesday and Wednesday the parents received letters from their son, written on Friday last, to whichrt he said he was well.  Gilbert S. Gibson was the third son of Superintendent and Mrs. Gibson and was born in this city August 10, 1896.  He graduated from Norwich High School in the class of 1916, and was president of the class during one year.  He was taking a course in landscape and architectural art at Cornel University at the time of his enlistment last may, about three months before his 21st birthday.  In September he was called to service in the Signal Corps and was assigned to Company B, Three Hundred and Sixth Field Signal Battalion at Camp Jackson, where he was at the time of his death.  Deceased was a young man of much promise, and was highly regarded among his companions and schoolmates.  He was a member of the First Baptist Chruch and the Y.M.C.A., and his death is the cause of deep regret by all.  Besides his parents he is survived by three brothers, Dr. Edwin F. Gibson, now at Fort Benjamin Harrison in the medical branch of the service; Casson G. Gibson, Ph.D., now doing government work at Washington, ,D.C., and Stanford J. Gibson, Jr. at home.

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Supt. Gibson Has Three Sons in Service

Norwich Sun, September 24, 1917

Gilbert Gibson has just been notified that he is to report for service in the signal corps, October 1.  He enlisted in this branch of the army while at Cornell university last June.  Superintendent Gibson of the Norwich schools now has three sons in the service of Uncle Sam, Kasson in the war problem bureau at Washington, Dr. E.F., a lieutenant in the medical corps stationed at Fort Benjamin Harrison, Ind., and Gilbert who will train with the 308th battalion at Fort Jackson, South Carolina.  Walter Kent, who enlisted a few days earlier than Gibson, expects his summons to go nay day.

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Gives His Life in Cause of His Country

Norwich Sun, December 20, 1917

Norwich's first war tragedy has occurred.  Gilbert S. Gibson, third son of Superintendent of schools Stanford J. Gibson and Mrs. Gibson, is dead and the entire city is in mourning for its first soldier dead in the great world war.

Late Wednesday afternoon Mr. Gibson received a telegram from the commandant at Camp Jackson, Columbia, S.C. stating that his son, Gilbert S. Gibson, had died that day and asking as to the disposition of the body.  Supt. Gibson immediately wired that the war department send the boy's body home and wired also to the captain of his son's company asking for information as to the cause of his death.

The telegram was the first intimation his parents had had as to anything having gone amiss with their son.  Wednesday morning and on Tuesday also they had received letters and Christmas gifts from him and in both communications he had written that he was well. These letters were both written on Friday of last week.  At the hour of going to press, no information had been received as to when the body would arrive or what was the cause of the young man's death.

Gilbert S. Gibson is the third son of Supt. and Mrs. Gibson and was a student in Cornell university when he enlisted in early June, two months before his twenty-first birthday.  In September he was called to service in the signal corps and was assigned to Co. B, 306 Field Signal Battalion at Camp Jackson where he was stationed until his death.

Lovable, active, happy in disposition and friendly toward everyone, Gilbert Gibson was a prime favorite with his elders as well as with his schoolmates and the younger generation  He was a member of the First Baptist church and the Y.M.C.A. here, and everywhere the deepest grief is expressed and felt because of the young man's untimely demise.  True sympathy and heartfelt condolences are extended to the bereaved father and mother and the other members of the young man's family.

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He Was a Friend to Every One

Norwich Sun, December 22, 1917

The body of Gilbert S. Gibson arrived here Saturday morning on board the 6 o'clock Lackawanna train and was accompanied by Sergeant Weller, Corporal Nelson and Private Swanson of the young man's company in the signal corps.

From the young men and the letter from the commanding officer it was learned that Gilbert was taken ill last Monday evening and died Wednesday morning at 11:45 o'clock.  The cause of his death was cerebrospinal fever.  His body was encased in two hermetically sealed caskets, placed on board the train Thursday evening and forwarded to this city.  The seals will not be broken under military orders.  Because of the uncertainty of the hour of arrival there was no crowd at the Lackawanna station and the casket was removed at once to the undertaking rooms of Lawrence & DeVine at 91 South Broad street.

Private services will be conducted at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Stanford J. Gibson at 46 Fair street at 2:30 o'clock Sunday afternoon and public services at 3 o'clock in the First Baptist church of which the young man was a member.  Rev. H.R.  MacMillan will officiate and a full military service will be held. The body will not be taken from the caisson in front of the church during the service, to which the friends of the young man and his family are invited. Every precaution is being taken, in paying the young man the last homage of respect, to keep the services in harmony with military and state health board rules.  The cortege will be escorted to the cemetery by the Home Defense Corps accompanied by Johnson's band and such soldiers and sailors as may be home on leave of absence. Citizens along the line of march are requested to display the national colors.  Judge Ray has requested the members of the board of education to be present.  All members of the school faculty and of the high school are requested to assemble at the high school building at 2:30 o'clock and attend the funeral in a body.  Quasi military organizations of the city, other than the home guards will also be in attendance.  This is the funeral of the first soldier form the city of Norwich in the present war for liberty and democracy who has died in the service, and there should and will be a large turnout, not only out of respect to the deceased, but as an indication of the loyalty and patriotism of the citizens of the city of Norwich.

Much rumor has been rife concerning the cause of Gilbert Gibson's death, but the truth of the sad story is contained in the following letter received by Supt. Gibson on Saturday morning.
U.S. Signal Corps
Co. H 306th Field Signal Battalion
Camp Jackson, S.D.
Dec. 20-, 1917
My Dear Mr. Gibson--
Though it is small comfort that words can give, yet I want to extend to you the sympathy of the officers and men who knew your son Gilbert.  As you know his death was caused by cerebrospinal fever.  It was a great shock to all of us.  He was as well as usual on the 17th, but became sick during the night.  He was taken to the base hospital on the morning of the 18th, where, in spite of the best efforts on the part of the doctors and nurses, he died at 11:45 a.m. on the 19th.

He was always cheerful, willing and obedient.  He was a friend to everyone in the company and everyone was his friend.  he was a good soldier and performed promptly and thoroughly every task assigned to him. He was conscious when I visited him at the hospital on the night of the 18th and he made the Great Sacrifice as a soldier.  I would be pound to be father to such a son.
Sincerely yours,
Robert A. Jones, First Lieut. Sig. R.C., Commanding Co. B.

The above letter and the accompanying messages of the friends who formed the escort brought some comfort to the sorrowing hearts of Supt. and Mrs. Gibson, who even in their sorrow have been mindful of the best interests of the community as a whole and have unhesitatingly complied with the health rules, which even deprive them of the privilege to gaze upon their son's face again in its mortality.  Dr. Kasson Gibson is expected home from Washington, D.C., this evening and it is believed now that Lieut. Gibson who is at the head of the divisional sanitary detachment at Camp Merritt, N.J., will reach home in time for the funeral.

Resolutions of Respect

The following are the resolutions of respect prepared by a committee of teachers in the Norwich public schools and are expressive of the sentiment of all who knew the patriot dead.

"In the death of Gilbert s. Gibson, there is brought home to us fully for the first time the realization of the sacrifices that our community and our school will be called upon to make in these times.  Those of us teachers who were privileged to know Gilbert Gibson, well know how great this sacrifice is.  We have known him as a boy of lovable disposition, whom to know was to love and we have seen him grow to be a young man of rare Christian character, guided by the highest and noblest ideals of life and conduct.  The eagerness with which he responded to the call to the young manhood of his country, and the nobility of his death testify to these ideals.  These tender memories and the love and respect which we bear for our superintendent and his family, prompt us, the teacher, of the Norwich school, to extend to them the sincere assurance of our most profound sympathy, and the hope that they may in measure be comforted by the thought of the influence that such a young life will have upon the young manhood of his town and by the nobility of the sacrifice of his death.   Lillian O. Fort, Kate A. Griffin, H.M. Robb, Mary J. Devine

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Last Sad Rites Solemn and Impressive

Norwich Sun, December 24, 1917

The last volley has been fired, taps blow, and the final prayer of the church said over the grave of Norwich's first young soldier to make a glorious sacrifice of life in the war in which his country is engaged for democracy.

Sunday was a solemn day of mourning in every household in Norwich and throughout the county wherever the news had winged its way that the body of Gilbert S. Gibson had been brought home, his casket draped in the colors he loved and died for.  Shortly after 2 o'clock the citizens began to assemble in the center of the city, not out of idle curiosity to see a soldier's funeral but by their grave silent presence to honor the brave lad, who was known and loved by all.  At 2:30 o'clock the Home Defense Corps, the G.A.R., Spanish War Veterans, two score or more soldiers and sailors on furlough, the members of the board of education and Johnson's band, marched to the undertaking rooms of Lawrence & Devine at 91 South Broad street and formed an escort of honor for the funeral cortege which passed through the main streets where the flags were displayed at half mast.  Members of the school faculty and of the student body were drawn up in front of the First Baptist church and there with wet eyes and bowed heads they stood with a great multitude of people as the soldier lads of the community halted before the church and stood guard around the remains of their dead playmate and comrade. Throughout the services they, with the Home Defense Corps and Spanish War veterans kept watch over their friend.

Within, the church which was not half large enough to accommodate all those who would have participated, the service was one of dignity, sorrow and patriotism. A few of the many floral offerings, which had been made in token of the sympathy extended Supt. and Mr. S.J. Gibson and their family were arranged about the pulpit platform, where sat the pastor, Rev. H.R. MacMillan, Rev. R.L. Clark, Rev. W.L. Bennett and Rev. S.T. Harding. Rev. Dr. Clark read the scripture lesson from the sixth chapter of St. Paul's letter to the Ephesians and the Rev. Mr. Bennett invoked divine blessing and comfort upon the bereaved family and friends.  Rev. Mr. MacMillan stated that in view of the signal occasion he had invited every clergyman in the city to be present and assist in the service and read the letter of regret because of his church duties sent him by Rev. Fr. Tiernan.

[Sermon delivered by Mr. MacMillan, published in total in newspaper is not replicated here]

A special meeting of the board of education was held at the office of president, George W. Ray, on Saturday evening, December 22, 1917. Present, George W. Ray, president, William Mason, clerk, W.C. Hartigan, D.B. Cushman, J.O. Hill Reed and Michael Finigan.  The meeting was called for the purpose of taking appropriate action on the death at Camp Jackson, South Carolina, December 19, 1917, of Gilbert S. Gibson, a graduate of our high school, and son of our superintendent of schools, Prof. S.J. Gibson.  He was also the first soldier from the city of Norwich to give his life for his country in the present war with Germany. The following testimonial and resolution as prepared and presented and on motion of Mr. Mason, duly seconded by Mr. Hartigan, unanimously adopted and ordered entered in the minutes of the board.

The board of education of Norwich high school extends to our respected and beloved superintendent of schools, Prof. S.J. Gibson, and to his devoted wife and all the family, its deep sympathy in this their hour of affliction, as does each member of the board.  The death of Gilbert S. Gibson, the first soldier from the city of Norwich to give his life in the present war, is a heavy blow to these devoted parents, and all the family, to our high school and to this community.  He was born in this city but little more than twenty-one years ago, educated in our schools, graduated from our high school and, at the time of his enlistment in the national army in June last, was a first class student tin Cornell university.  He was an honorable, upright, studious, reliable and promising young man of correct habits and clean life.  He was a member of the First Baptist church and Sunday school in this city of Norwich and true to their teachings and principles.  He was a patriotic soldier and citizen and when the war was forced upon us, was ready and willing and anxious to offer his services and devote his life to his country. This was evidenced by his voluntary enlistment when still under the age of twenty-one years and his eager solicitation to be assigned at once to active duty in the field.  His commanding officer says of him "He was always cheerful, willing and obedient.  he was a friend to every one in the company and every one was his friend.  he was a good soldier and performed promptly and thoroughly every task assigned to him.  I would be pound to be father to such a son."  Gilbert S. Gibson was worthy of these words of commendation.  His teachers and associates in our schools, in Cornell university, and those who knew him everywhere sincerely spoke of him when living and speak of him now he is dead, with the highest terms, of praise and commendation.  He had two uncles, Captain Edwin O. Gibson and Dwight T. Gibson who served with honor as volunteers in the late civil war, and has an older brother, Lieutenant Edwin F. Gibson, now in the service of the United States as an enlisted officer and still another brother serving in the war department at Washington, D.C.  He came of and belongs to a patriotic family and in his death the country and the cause of liberty and democracy suffers a great loss.

Resolved, that this expression of our affection and esteem be published, entered in the minutes of the board of education and that a copy be sent to the parents of the dead soldier.




 

Marriages (December 30)

Sumner - Johnston

Utica Saturday Globe, October 1920

Howard A. & Bertha L. (Johnston) Sumner

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  A wedding of special interest to Norwich friends occurred in Morrisville at noon on Monday when Miss Bertha L. Johnston, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Johnston, became the bride of Howard A. Sumner, of this city. The ceremony was performed by Rev. Mr. Sanford, pastor of the Methodist Church at Morrisville.  Miss Louise Johnston, a sister of the bride, was the bridesmaid, and Harry Debatcher, a World War comrade of the groom, was best man.  Following the ceremony a luncheon was served and hearty congratulations were extended.  After a wedding trip to New York, Philadelphia and Atlantic City, Mr and Mrs.  Sumner are making their home on East Main street in this city. The bride in the eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Johnston and  a graduate of the Morrisville high School.  That she has a wide circle of friends in her home town is shown by the generous gifts of cut glass, silver and linen with which she was remembered.  For the past year she has been assistant manager of the Norwich Neckwear company.  The groom is the only child of Mrs. J.G. McCulloch, of Guernsey street, and a graduate of the Norwich High School.  He was preparing himself for a chemist at the University of Pennsylvania when the World War broke out and he abandoned his studies to enter the service.  He was one year overseas with the ambulance corps of the Seventy-seventh Division.  His best man saw service in the same company.  Mr Sumner is now employed as a chemist in the laboratories of the Norwich Pharmacal Company.  His associates there remembered him with a gift of a beautiful mahogany clock. 

Marriage Notices

Chenango Union March 11, 1875

HARRIS BARD:  In New Lisbon, March 1, by Rev. J.H. Bennett, Mr. W.H. Harris of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Emma E. Bard of New Lisbon [Otsego Co., NY].

MATHEWSON - DURFEE:  In Madison, Feb. 20 by Rev. J.A Wood, Mr. Willie E. Mathewson of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Mary L. Durfee of Madison [Madison Co., NY].

Chenango Union, March 18, 1875

ADAMS - RANSFORD:  In Norwich, Feb. 24, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. Horace G. Adams of Nichols, N.Y. [Tioga Co.] to Miss Anna Ransford of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

FERRIS - HICKOX:  In Bainbridge, March 9, 1875, by Rev. A.B Richardson, Mr Benjamin Ferris to Miss Katie Hickox, both of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

BLOWERS - MANN:  In Afton, March 9, by Rev. A.R. Richardson, Mr. Alfred Blowers of North Sanford [Broome Co., NY] to Miss Lavana Mann of East Afton [Chenango Co., NY].

PRATT - MINER:  In Sidney, March 10 by Rev. J.B. Morse, Mr. James Pratt to Miss Ettie Miner, both of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

Obituaries (December 30)

Judson B. Galpin

Chenango Union, February 23, 1893

Chenango Union, March 2, 1893

 

Judson B. Galpin, proprietor of the Oxford Times for a period of forty-five years, and a printer for fifty-nine years of his life, died at his home on Clinton street [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY] at six o'clock, Monday morning, February 20th, 1893, after an illness of several months.  Death came peacefully and he passed to that rest of which no man was more entitled.  Deceased was a descendant of Benjamin and Rebecca Galpin, who settled at Woodbury, Conn., in 1680.  He was born in Washington, Conn., May 15th 1816, and was the oldest and sole survivor of a family that consisted of three brothers and one sister.  At the age of seventeen years he entered the office of the New Haven (Conn.) Palladium as an apprentice, and after a faithful service he, in January, 1838, became one of the publishers of that paper, which is still in existence, in partnership with James V. Babcock, a leading man of his time.  The partnership continued until October, 1839 when he sold his interest in the paper, but remained in the office until May 14th, 1841.  During his residence in new Haven he married Catharine June Brownson, a resident of Middlebury, New Haven county, Conn., on the 16th day of May, 1841, the fiftieth anniversary of which was quietly observed in 1891.  The fruits of this marriage were four children--Theodore B., Henry J., Florrie G. (Walker), and Jennie H. Galpin, al of whom, with his widow, survive him.  In 1841 he removed to Greene, Chenango county, N.Y., at the solicitations of his brother-in-law, Elisha N. Hawley, who had proceeded him, a journey that in those days was called "going west,"  and as much if not more of an undertaking than it now would be to remove to one of the Dakotas.  There he entered into partnership with Mr. Hawley in the general merchandise business.  This firm continued business some four years.  In 1845 a yearning for his chosen profession induced him to remove to Oxford, and engage upon the Times.  Later he became associate publisher with Waldo M Potter, who survives him and is now a leading State officer of North Dakota.  On March 4th, 1848, he became solo proprietor and up to within a few months back, when disease compelled him to lay down the stick and rule and submit the management to other hands.  During the long years of his management of the Times, the paper never failed to be issued on the day set for publication and was hardly ever behind the usual hour.  He was never absent from his post of [manager] during his active management but twice on publication day. That he was faithful to his trust, true to his friends and conducted the Times for the best interests of the town and its welfare, the readers of the paper are his judges, and the files of the paper his monument.  In connection with newspaper work he had for many years, until his sons were able to assist him, the additional burden of the book store upon his hands, which he conducted for about forty years. At his death he was the oldest business man in town, and had noticed the change of every business place in the village.  Deceased was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and a regular attendant at its services.  He had held the office of Trustee of the church and was clerk of that board for many years.  Public spirited, he gave generously of his means to advance any industry or institution that would benefit the village, and no subscription paper was ever returned unsigned by him that was circulated to help a poor man in distress.  Public office he never sought nor ever held.  Of a quiet, retiring disposition, he was never to be found away from his business; yet he had a keen appreciation of good fellowship and enjoyed the companionship of neighbors and old friends who sought him out.  No man was ever more wedded to his trade, or more willing to accommodate a patron.  He had but one fear and that was that some one might be discommoded, and in this, often made more and harder work for himself. So devoted was he to his lifelong work that the hardest task that came to him was the final surrender to disease, and retirement from active business in August inst.  To his family there was that devotion that characterized him in his business.  Kind and indulgent, no expressed wish ever remained long ungratified.  He was at all times everything in that one sweet word that is expressed by Father. The funeral services will be held from his late residence on Wednesday at 2 P.M., the Rev. Mr. Simpson officiating.  Interment in Riverview cemetery--Oxford Times

 

Cora Webb Tucker

Chenango Union, March 2, 1893

Departed this life, on the evening of February 25, 1893, at her home at Pharsalia Centre [Chenango Co., NY], after a short illness, Mrs. Cora Webb, wife of George A Tucker, aged about twenty-three years.  She was a daughter of the late Daniel and Elizabeth Webb, of Beaver Meadow.  She leaves surviving her a beloved husband, three small children and a sister, Mrs. Nora Dresser, of Edmeston, and a host of friends to mourn her sudden departure from an earthly to a heavenly home.  In early life she made a profession of religion, and ever lived the life of a consistent Christian.  She well and faithfully performed every duty as wife and mother, neighbor and friend, and was greatly beloved by all of her associates. She will be greatly missed, not only by her family and friends, but by the entire community .  Her pure spirit has left its earthly home, and has gone to dwell with God and the angels above.  The bereaved husband and family have the sympathy of the community in their affliction.  May the consolation of divine grace sustain the husband in his deep affliction, and enable him to so live that he may meet her in heaven.  The funeral was held at her late home, and the services were conducted by Rev. J.C. Kennedy.

 

James Clapp

Chenango Union, February 23, 1893

James Clapp, of Luzerne, Warren county, died suddenly February 16th, at Cairo, Egypt.  Mr. Clapp was the son of James Clapp, a distinguished lawyer of Central New York, and was born in this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY] in 1823.  We believe that Mr. Clapp was the last survivor of an illustrious and distinguished family that were famous in Oxford in the early days of its history. The family residence was where St. Paul's church now stands.  We understand that it was the wish of the deceased to be buried in his native place, and that his remains will be brought here for interment--Oxford times.

Amanda L. (Burlingame) Eldredge

Norwich Sun, October 31, 1921

Mrs. Amanda L. Eldredge, widow of Frederick Eldredge, died at her home on East Main street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] Sunday, Oct. 30, 1921, aged 82 years.  Mrs. Eldredge was the daughter of Charles and Abigail Burlingame, the eighth of ten children, only one of whom survives her.  She was born in the town of Norwich on Feb. 13, 1840, on what is still known as the Burlingame farm, a mile south of this village, where her father was also born, the farm having been in the possession of the Burlingame family for more than 100 years.  For nearly 10 years Mrs. Eldredge had lived on East Main street in the home where she died.  She had been a member of the First Baptist church for about 70 years, having joined that church when she was ten years old.  Although there are others now in the church older than Mrs. Eldredge, she has been a member of the church longer than anyone in the present church membership.  Aside from the children who survive her, two other sons were born, Frank, who died at the age of four years, and Charles l., who died about twenty years ago at the age of 18.  Surviving her are six children, the Misses Harriett, Jennie, Mary, Lillian and Florence and W..F. Eldredge, all of Norwich, four granddaughters, two grandsons, one great-granddaughter and one brother, Truman Burlingame of little Rock, Ark. The funeral which will be private will be held from the late home on Tuesday afternoon, the Rev. J.H. MacConnell officiating. Burial will be made in Mt. Hope cemetery [Norwich, NY]. 

Emogene (Hopkins) Hart

Norwich Sun, October 31, 1921

The body of Mrs. Emogene Hart, widow of the late Theodore Hart, was brought to this city from West Pittston, Pa., for burial on Monday afternoon.  Mrs. Hart was 70 years of age and for many years a resident of this city [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], where she was a member of the First Baptist church. She had been in failing health for a number of years and passed away at the home of her step-daughter, Mrs. W.J. Peck, in West Pittston on Friday.  Mr. Hart died about 15 years ago.  She is survived by two brothers, Arvine Hopkins of Kalamazoo, Mich., and William Hopkins of Detroit, Mich. The Rev. S.T. Harding will officiate at the funeral to be held in Mount Hope Chapel following the arrival of the afternoon passenger train from Binghamton at 4:50-

Elsie L. Arnold

Norwich Sun, October 31, 1921

Elsie L. Arnold, aged 73 years, died suddenly Sunday night, following a stroke of paralysis which she suffered on Sunday morning.  Her death occurred at the home of Mrs. Josephine Hamilton of Henry street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] where Miss Arnold had made her home for the past several years.  She is survived by three brothers, Lewis F. of Norwich, Roscoe Z., of Mt. Upton, and Delos E. of Preston, two nephews and two nieces.

Obituaries (December 29)

William D. Allen

Utica Saturday Globe, July 1921

 

William D. Allen

1857 - 1921 

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The death of William D. Allen, a prominent resident of Frankfort [Herkimer Co., NY] on Saturday last after a week's illness, is deeply regretted in this city where he was born and grew to young manhood.  He is still well remembered here although he left Norwich more than 40 years ago.  He was for several years active to the affairs of the Fire Department as a member of the Qui Vive Hose Company and afterwards of the Alerts.  He was likewise a leader and favorite in the social life of the community.  Deceased was the son of James H. and Nancy E. Allen and was born November 25, 1857.  After completing his studies in the old Norwich Academy he learned the trade of watch repairing in which he engaged for a number of years.  After his departure from Norwich he held positions with the New York, Ontario & Western and West shore railways and more recently became interested in manufacturing.  While retaining his residence in Frankfort where he was director of one of the banks he had business in St. Johnsville and in other places and became a prominent figure in the industrial life of the Mohawk valley.  Mr. Allen had never married.  He is survived by three brothers, Charles E., of Indianapolis, Ind.; Howard, of Frankfort, and Eugene J., of Norwich; one sister, Miss Maude Allen of Frankfort, and an uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. James W. Sherwood of Oxford, as well as a number of nieces, nephews and cousins.  The funeral services were held from his late home in Frankfort on Tuesday morning at 10 o'clock.  The body was brought to Norwich, and services conducted at the chapel in Mount Hope Cemetery at 1 o'clock on Tuesday afternoon.  Rev. Frank W. Young officiating, the remains being laid at rest in the family plot.

 

Lana (Patrick) Adams

Norwich Sun, March 14, 1944

Mrs. Selanah Adams died at the Oxford WRC Home [Chenango Co., NY] Tuesday morning at 6:30.  She had been a resident of the home for only a short time.  The deceased was born in Wisconsin 84 years ago, but had lived most of her long life in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] and vicinity.  She formerly lived at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Howard on the White Store road.  In her early life, Mrs. Adams was a school teacher and had taught many years in South New Berlin and vicinity.  She was a member of the Baptist church in Denver, Col., where she lived 10 years.  The only survivors are a niece, Mrs. George Colville of Norwich and a nephew, Merritt Norton of Binghamton, also several cousins.  Services are to be held at the Breese Funeral Home at 2 o'clock Thursday afternoon, with Rev. Clinton Skinner officiating. The body will be placed in Mt. Hope vault, awaiting burial in White Store cemetery later.

Edward G. Arnold

Chenango Union, March 2, 1893

Another of the older residents of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] has passed to his rest. Edward G. Arnold was born in the east part of this town, June 10, 1810, and has resided in that neighborhood during his long and busy life, his occupation being farming.  He was a good citizen, and enjoyed the respect of the community in which he lived.  He leaves six children.  His wife died some six years ago.  Funeral at his late residence Thursday, at 11 A.M.

Anne Fryer Bedford

Chenango Union, March 2, 1893

At the residence of her son-in-law, Henry Miner, at Elkland, Pa., on Saturday, February 25, 1893, Mrs. Anne Fryer Bedford, widow of David E.S. Bedford, a former prominent business man of Norwich, died at the advanced age of ninety-four years and ten months.  She is remembered by the older inhabitants of Norwich as a most estimable woman, and her memory will be cherished by many friends., The remains were brought here Tuesday afternoon, and the interment was in Mt. Hope cemetery [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].

 

Death Notices

Norwich Sun, July 22, 1927

 

MICKLE, CHARLES D. died in Binghamton [Broome Co., NY] Monday evening, July 11, aged 69 years.  Funeral services were held Thursday, July 14 at 2 p.m. from the home of his daughter, Mrs. Lewis Haynes in Guilford, the Rev. Mr. Gates of Oxford officiating.  Burial was made in Godfrey's Corners cemetery [Guilford, Chenango Co., NY].

 

MARTIN, LEROY, died at his home in South Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY] Tuesday night, July 12.  Funeral services were held at the church Thursday, July 14 at 2 p.m.

 

WILCOX, E.W. died at his home in Old Forge [Herkimer Co., NY] Sunday, July 17, aged 54 years.  Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon, July 20 in Utica.  Deceased was a brother of John H. Wilcox of West Main street in this city [Norwich, NY].

 

McNITT, MRS. FRANCES SMITH died Tuesday morning July 19 at her home 39 Court street in this city, aged 81 years. Funeral services were held Thursday, July 21 at 2 p.m., the Rev. W.A. Ashmore officiating.  Burial was made in Mt. Hope cemetery [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].

 

FERNALLD, WILLIAM died at his home in Greene [Chenango Co., NY] Saturday, July 16.  Funeral services were held Tuesday, July 19 at 2 p.m., the Rev. S.H. Boys of McDonough officiating and burial was made in the cemetery at McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].

 

FERNALLD, MONROE died at his home in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] Saturday, July 16.  Funeral services were held Wednesday, July 20 at 2 p.m., the Rev. S.H. Boys of McDonough officiating and burial was made in the cemetery at McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].

 

BARRE, FRANK J. died at his home in Lawyersville [Schoharie Co., NY] Monday, July 18, aged 67 years.  Funeral services were held Wednesday, July 20 at 3 p.m. and burial was made Thursday, July 21 at 10 a.m., in the cemetery at South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

 

COON, WILLIAM died in the Cortland City Hospital Sunday morning, July 17.  Deceased was a brother of Reuben Coon of North Pitcher.

 

ARNOLD, DELOS R died at the home of B.E. Slater in Preston [Chenango Co., NY] Thursday July 21 at 10:30 a.m. aged 81 years.  Funeral services will be held Sunday noon, July 24 and burial will be made at White Store [Chenango Co., NY]

Chenango & Unadilla Valleys 50 years ago - 1872

Chenango & Unadilla Valleys, Fifty Years Ago
by S.S. Randall
Chenango Telegraph, May 15, 1872

Lewis Ebbal

 

I am indebted to an esteemed and valued female acquaintance in New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], for a brief sketch of an eccentric pioneer of this town, calling himself, and known among his neighbors as Lewis Ebbal.  His real name appears to  have been Louis L. Abbe de Roffecourt, born near Verdan, on the Mense.  He was a Commissary in the French army, and having, in an evil hour, been tempted to embezzle a portion of the funds committed to his charge, was under the necessity of flying from his native country, without even the formality of taking leave of his family whom he never again saw.  He left France in the fall of 1787, and emigrated to America and effected a temporary settlement near the present village of Cooperstown [Otsego Co., NY], where he opened a store for the sale of foreign wines and liquors.  "In 1796," observes my informant, "while yet the Indians hunted and fished through the woods, and panthers, wolves and bears still roamed the forests, he found his way to the primitive valley of the Unadilla, a little south of the present village of New Berlin, on the banks of the river, where he purchased a small piece of land, and erected a cabin containing only two small rooms, poorly furnished, with the exception of his library, which consisted of many rare and valuable books, and to which he made frequent additions in subsequent years.  His wearing apparel was extremely elegant--his silken hose and fine linen, ruffled shirt frill and wrist bands, attracting universal admiration among the rude settlers, especially when on "general training" days he proudly marched by the side of the troops, inspirited by the martial strain familiar to his ears in his own native land.  Among his effects was a large ironbound trunk or chest, kept carefully concealed under his bed, and which was supposed by those who caught occasional glances of it, to be his money chest, or strong box--as he was known, in his pecuniary transactions in the neighborhood, to receive only gold and silver, and to require delivery personally at midnight, under an old bridge in the neighborhood.  His doors and windows were heavily barred with iron, he seldom admitted visitors, and never left them for a moment during their stay, frequently receiving and entertaining them in front of his cabin.  He never either invited or encouraged confidence; and from these unsocial habits, and his general eccentricity of behavior, extravagant reports of his wealth were circulated.  Unfortunately, those into whose society he was most frequently thrown, were rude, turbulent, avaricious and uncultivated men, not peculiarly adapted to win either his confidence or regard.  His time during the day was chiefly devoted to business and the accumulation of wealth, but "his night," says my informant, "were given to reading and study, his solitary light burning far into the night, while all around him were wrapt in sleep."  He appears to have been a frequent and welcome visitor of the Franchots, Van Rensselears and Morrises, of Butternuts [Otsego Co., NY], painfully threading his way on horseback, through the dense intervening wilderness, accessible only by a narrow, winding path, and surrounded on every hand by wild beasts, from whose fury he occasionally had a narrow escape. On one of these hazardous excursions, he was pursued, toward night fall, by a bear, whose dismal and appalling howls,  Lewis in his fright he mistook for the deep gutturals of the Indian tongue.  Hastily ascending a tree, he lustily roared for quarter.  "I did beg, he said,--I did pray--I did speak in the English and in the French--but the dam savage would not remove himself, and he was compelled to spend the entire night in vain remonstrances with his supposed "dam savage".  Thus he lived in solitary seclusion until 1813.  He had considerably enlarged his rural domain, and become an agriculturist on quite a large scale--raising cattle for the market, cultivating fruit trees, and devoting much of his time to a large collection of bee hives, from which he was accustomed to supply a great extent of the surrounding country with honey.  His well-fed bees and the fine fruit from his orchards were also in great demand, and as his expenditures were on a very lauded scale, and as receipts extensive, his wealth must have rapidly increased.  He was earnestly advised by his friends in Butternuts, and his legal counsellor in New Berlin, Noah Ely, Esq.,--so to invest his funds as to benefit those whom he had left behind him in la belle France.  but his only and invariable reply was "My money, it is safe, it is safe."  My informant, while a child, was frequently shown by her mother, the retired recess in a garden adjoining the post office, then kept by her father, where the solitary recluse was accustomed to retire, with streaming eyes for the perusal of his letters from home, whither he dared not return, and whence, during the pendency of the long war succeeding the accession of the Emperor Napoleon, he could not bring over his loved ones.  "Time passed, and all prospered well with Mr. Ebbal," continues my correspondent.  "For some time he had been much engaged in planting a vine yard on a ten acre lot near the river, set apart for that purpose, having obtained cuttings from a distance at great trouble and expense.  The climate proved but ill adapted to the purpose, but the poor Frenchman did not live to witness the results of his experiments.  he died after a few days' illness, at the house of a neighbor, to which he had been removed, for such care and attendance as was practicable in the fall of 1826, at the age of sixty-five years."  Mr. Ely, having been appointed administrator upon his estate, proceeded to the examination of his effects, when a little over $600 in specie, and a few small bills, were all that could be found upon the premises, the iron bound trunk, with all its contents having entirely disappeared and no traces of either having ever subsequently been discovered, although diligent but ineffectual search was made in the cellar of the house, in the orchard and under and in the vicinity of the old bridge.  Mr. Ely having, through the politeness of Mons Marchard an attaché of the French Monarch, obtained the necessary letters of attorney from the heirs of the deceased in that country, sold the land, stock, library, etc., and transmitted the avails, amounting in all to some three or four thousand dollars only, out of the forty or fifty thousand, which he was generally supposed to have accumulated.

My fair correspondent thus concludes her interesting recital.  In the small burying ground overlooking the river, and within sight of his own little dwelling, the poor, solitary recluse lies buried.  At the best, how sad and lonely a life he must have passed, how cheerless and desolate to one who had known better days, the amenities of social life, the charm of home, the converse of friends, and the excitement of martial ardor and ambition.  What a humiliating and ignoble ending to a life opening before him with all the advantages that education and high culture could give, in the gayest and most polished capitol in the world  "Peace to his ashes!"

An inexplicable mystery seems to hang over this tragic tale, which now, in all human probability, after the lapse of nearly half a century, will never find its solution.  Was this treasure hermetically sealed up and buried in some secluded nook, so carefully concealed as to evade all other search than his own, and does it still remain there, awaiting some chance accident of discovery?  or--who shall say, until the secrets of all hearts are known.

 

Obituaries (December 28)

Finch E. Lewis

Utica Saturday Globe, July 1921

 

Finch E. Lewis

1891 - 1921

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The sad death by drowning of Finch E. Lewis, who with his wife, formerly Miss Nellie Luther, were both members of the Norwich High School class of 1908, was a great shock to the many relatives and friends of the family in this city.  Deceased was a member of the high school baseball team, filling the important position of pitcher, in which his superior work is well remembered.  Shortly after his graduation in the summer of 1908, Mr. Lewis accepted a position with the United States Leather company in Boston.  Miss Luther also accepted a position in that city and they were married there.  Mr. Lewis took up the study of law and after completing his course became associated with one of the oldest real estate dealers in Massachusetts.  At the time of his death he was legal adviser for Burroughs & Company, large dealers in real estate in Boston.  His home was in Melrose Heights.  Besides his wife, his family consisted of six children, two boys, Kenneth and Finch E., and four girls, Florence, Alma, Eleanor and Alta.

 

Last Sunday with a party of friends, the family went to Hudson for an outing at the seashore.  The father was an expert swimmer and was teaching some of the children to swim, when he was seized with cramps and before he could be rescued was carried into the deeper water and drowned.  One of the children narrowly escaped a like fate.  Deceased was born in Norwich on August 25, 1891, the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Harrison Lewis, of 26 Division Street. Besides his wife and children he is survived by his parents and three brothers, Willard A. Lewis, of this city; H. Ward Lewis, of East Norwich, and R. Oakland Lewis, who is now in Indiana. The funeral was held at 2 o'clock on Wednesday afternoon from his late residence in Melrose Heights, interment being made there.  Among the relatives in attendance were the bereaved father and brothers, Mr. and  Mrs. Willard A. Lewis and H. Ward Lewis.

 

Ella May (Cardner) Stillman

DeRuyter Gleaner, March 13, 1947

Ella May Cardner Stillman, aged 74 years, passed away Friday evening at 10:30 Feb. 28, 1947.  She was a daughter of Benjamin Cardner and Ann York, born March 29, 1872 on Cuyler Hill.  She was married to Arthur Adelbert Stillman Dec. 30, 1891.  She is survived by one brother, Grant Cardner of Canastota, several nephews and nieces and her husband, by five grandchildren, Maybell Contino, Alma Moore, Alice and Beth Crandall of South Otselic, and Elsie Crandall of Montsville, N.Y. and two great grandchildren, John Contino, Joette Moore.  Her funeral service was held in Kenneth Davis's funeral home Monday March 3, 1947 at 2 P.M. Rev. J.C. Whitney officiated.  her body was placed in the vault and burial will be held in South Otselic Valley View Cemetery in the spring.

Clive Reynolds

Cortland Standard, January 9, 1948

Mr. and Mrs. Max Reynolds were called to Lisle Monday by the tragic death of Mr. Reynolds' brother, Clive Reynolds.  Mr. Reynolds met his death in a buzz saw accident on the farm of Mr. Thomas where he was working.  Clive S Reynolds was born April 16, 1904 at New Woodstock, N.Y.  He is survived by three children, Mrs. Lester Simson of DeRuyter, Juanita and Gerald Reynolds of South Edmeston and one brother, Max Reynolds of Taylor Center.  Mr. Reynolds had worked for several years in this locality for different farmers.  The funeral was held Wednesday at the Smith Funeral Home in DeRuyter. Burial will be at Valley View Cemetery at south Otselic in the spring. 

Elihu Thompson

Chenango Union, November 3, 1887

THOMPSON:  In South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 20th, Mr. Elihu Thompson, aged 78 years.

Elihu Thompson, an old and well known resident of South Otselic, died on Thursday, October 20th, aged seventy-eight years.  Mr. Thompson, it will be remembers, was some weeks ago thrown from a load of grain near Delphi, the wagon passing over his leg and crushing the bones.  He was helped upon his load and drove home in that condition, some twenty-three miles, before the limb was set.  He appeared to be getting along as well as could be expected of a person of his advanced age, until Thursday morning, the 14th, when he was suddenly attacked with a shock while sitting at the breakfast table, from which he died a week later.  Funeral services were held at his late residence on Sunday, the 23d, Rev. E. Rogers, of Cincinnatus, officiating.

 

Death Notices

 

HILL:  Mrs. Heman Hill died at the residence of her son, Silas R. Hill, Sunday morning.  The funeral services were held at the house this afternoon at 2 o'clock.  [New Era Gleaner, DeRuyter, NY, April 15, 1886]

 

FULLER:  South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY]:  Miss Lana Fuller, a former resident of here, died at the home of his sister at Otselic Thursday.  Burial was made in the family plot in Valley View cemetery [South Otselic, NY] Saturday.  [DeRuyter Gleaner, Jan. 8, 1925]

Vital Statistics - Norwich, NY

Chenango Union, November 3, 1887

So far as known, there has been for the village of Norwich, N.Y., during the past two months ending October 15th, 1887, fifteen marriages, twenty-two deaths and nine births.  Of the births, four were females.  The causes of death are classified as follows:  Abscess of the spine, 1; consumption, 4; congestion of the lungs, 1; cerebral hemorrhage, 1; cholera infantum, 2; cancer of stomach, 1; dysentery, 2; gastro enteritis, 1; paralysis agitans, 1; peritonitis, 1; typho malarial fever, 1; whooping cough, 1; valvular disease of the heart, 2.                      William H. Brownell,  Health officer.

Chenango & Unadilla Valley, 50 years ago - 1872

The Chenango and Unadilla Valleys, Fifty Years Ago

By S.S. Randall

Chenango Telegraph, May 15, 1872

I now propose, with my readers leave, to take up some few missing stiches in my hasty sketches of New Berlin, Columbus and other towns [Chenango Co., NY]--from materials procured from such authorities as are within my reach, or have been obligingly furnished me by those of my friends in Chenango and elsewhere, who have taken a kind interest in my labors.  I find it impossible to avoid a liberal intermixture of my own personal recollections and remembered legends of many of the personages and events thus recalled to mind, and can only throw myself upon the indulgence of my patient auditors for a few more brief numbers.

 

New Berlin

The first settler in the present town of New Berlin--which was taken from Norwich in 1807--was, according to Mr. Childs, Daniel Scribner, from Ballston, Saratoga county, as early as 1790.  During the first year of his residence, he was obliged to go in canoes down the Unadilla and Susquehanna to the present site of Binghamton, and thence up the Chenango to the Forks, below the present village of Greene, for the purchase of grain for the substance of his family, and having effected such purchase of the raw material, to return by the same route, passing up the Susquehanna to Wattles Ferry, the nearest grist-mill, thence to the mouth of the Unadilla, and up that stream to New Berlin--a trip of nearly two hundred miles and occupying eighteen days. Such were some of the hardships of frontier life eighty years since, in the Unadilla Valley.  His widow died not many years since, at the advanced age of ninety-eight years.

 

Among the early settler in the town not heretofore enumerated, were Nathaniel and Joseph Medbury, who located themselves on the Great Brook, and Thomas Sarle, Samuel Anderson, and Silas Burlingame, on the site of the present village, where they were joined by Levi Blakeslee, Charles Knapp, Jeremy Goodrich, and Joseph Moss.  Daniel Burlingame, the son of Silas Burlingame, was one of the pioneer Methodist preachers of the country, "and though somewhat eccentric," observes Mr. Childs in his Gazetteer, "was spoken of with veneration, and regarded as a man of great piety, peculiarly impressive in his sermons and exhortations."  He was the grandfather of the Hon. Anson Burlingame, member of Congress from Massachusetts, from 1854 to 1861, subsequently Minister to Austria and China, and more recently distinguished as the first ambassador from China to the United States and European powers, and the negotiator of an advantageous treaty with our government.  He was born in New Berlin in 1822, and his father, Joel Burlingame, soon afterwards removed with his family to Ohio, and from thence to Michigan.  Richard Stoneman, grandfather of Maj. Gen. Stoneman, of cavalry notoriety during the late rebellion, was also one of the early settlers of this town.  Daniel Schribner kept the first inn.  Levi Blakeslee opened the first store and the first blacksmith was Peleg Field, father of George and Orrin Field, who emigrated hither from Rhode Island as early as 1796.  Louisa Bancroft was the first child born in 1797, and the first marriage that of Daniel Williams to Phila Parker in 1794.  Josiah Burlingame taught the first school.  Jeremy Goodrich erected the first framed building in 1798, Charles Knapp established the first tannery in 1802, and Joseph Moss the first cotton manufactory a few years later.  The village was incorporated in 1816, and now contains a population of about 1000, four churches, a flourishing academy, two hotels, and several stores, St. Andrew's Episcopal church was organized in 1814, by the Rev. Daniel Nash, its first pastor, and consecrated in 1816 by Bishop Hobart. The Baptist church in South New Berlin was organized in 1804, with Elder Hosmer as pastor, on 1817 it was removed from the White Store now in Norwich, as original place of worship, to its present location, and remained under the pastoral charge of Elder Windsor, until 1826, when Elder Chamberlin was called to its pulpit, which he continued to occupy for twenty-three years consecutively, and after an absence of fifteen years, returned again in 1864, and still, I believe, remains in charge of his faithful flock.  he was an eminently good, worthy and pious man, of primeval simplicity and purity of life, and an ornament to his profession.

 

 

 

 

 

Obituaries (December 27)

Lyman Marvin

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1921

 

Lyman Marvin

1832 - 1921

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Lyman Marvin, an aged resident of the city, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. R. Morse, on Henry Street, Saturday morning after a severe illness of three months.  Death was due to dropsy and heart trouble.  Deceased was 89 years of age and for a year or more had made his home with his daughter.  He came to Norwich from DeRuyter, where he had been a long time and respected resident.  he is survived by three daughters, Mrs. R. Morse, and Mrs. Luella Mott, of this city, and Mrs. Carrie Burke, of Morrisville; by one son, Lewis Marvin, of South Otselic, and 11 grandchildren.  His funeral was held from the home of his daughter Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. Frank W. Young officiating.  Burial was made in Mount Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY].

 

Blanche Park

Cortland Democrat, June 26, 1942

Virgil [Cortland Co., NY]:  The funeral of Mrs. Blanche Park, wife of Leslie D. Park, was held last Thursday in the Virgil Methodist church where she had been a member for many years.  Rev. Bernard DeGraw, pastor and Rev. H. Carl Steinheimer of Syracuse, a former pastor, officiated.  Mrs. Raymond Hagadorn played "the Elegy" and the hymn "the Old Rugged Cross" was sung by Mrs. Arthur Adams accompanied by Mrs. Hagadorn.  The bearers were former members of Mrs. Park's Sunday school class: Merwin Lang, Rupert Bays, Charles Puderbaugh, Theodore Carrier, Raymond Hutchings and Robert Hutchings.  All the detailed arrangements of the funeral had been previous requests of Mrs. Park while she still lived. The church was filled with relatives and friends.  her grandson, Edward Park, who is stationed in an army camp, had leave to come home for the funeral.  Cortlandville Orange of which she was a member was well represented.  Mrs. Park had lived in the town of Virgil for 35 years. She came here with her family from South Otselic. She and her husband were well known for their work for the public in past years. During her entire lifetime she was an example of cheerfulness and kindness.  As long as it was at all possible she took an active part in the home, church and community. She will be greatly missed but her sweet spirit will linger near those she loved.

 

Ray D. Huttleston

DeRuyter Gleaner, February 27, 1941

Ray D. Huttleston, 71, of 8 Evergreen street, Cortland [Cortland Co., NY], died Tuesday morning in this city after several months' illness.  A native of Preble, Mr. Huttleston was born July 13, 1869, the son of Lewis V. and Hannah Haight Huttleston.  He had resided in Cortland for the last 25 years.  Besides his wife, Mrs. Cora M. Willcox Huttleston, Mr Huttleston leaves one daughter, Mrs. Helen M. Setliff of Cortland; one son, L.L. Huttleston of Binghamton; two sisters, Mrs. L.D. Park of Virgil and Mrs. Glenn Davis of South Otselic; one brother, Ralph S. Huttleston of Blodgett mills, three grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. The funeral service will be held on Thursday afternoon at 2:30 from the Beard Memorial Home with Rev. Bruce Pierce, pastor Homer Avenue Methodist church, officiating.  The body will be placed in the receiving vault at Cortland Rural Cemetery to await burial in Valley View cemetery at south Otselic [Chenango Co., NY] in the spring.

Robert Mettler

DeRuyter Gleaner, October 16, 1941 

Robert Mettler, aged 33 years of Cazenovia [Madison Co., NY], was fatally injured Sunday night on the Cazenovia-Oneida road., after passing a car collided head-on with another car he met.  The accident happened about midnight and he was taken to the Oneida hospital where he died at 6:30 a.m. Monday.  The body was brought here to the funeral parlors by Funeral Director Kenneth Davis and L.J. Warner, Monday.  Mrs. Mettler who is daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ira Sherman of this place was in new York attending a hair dressers' convention, having gone there Sunday, came Monday evening to her parents' home.  Funeral services will be held at the Methodist church in this village, Thursday afternoon.  Burial in Valley View cemetery [South Otselic, Chenango Co., NY].

Silas R. Hill

Syracuse Journal, June 2, 1904

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Silas R. Hill, a prominent citizen of South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], this county, died at his home in that village yesterday, aged 65 years.  He had been ill with heart disease since last fall, and for several weeks, his life was despaired of.  Mr. Hill was elected Sheriff of Chenango county in 1876, and held that office when Felix McCann was executed in June, 1879, for the murder of a neighbor named Hatch, in the town of Sherburne.  Mr. Hill was one-fourth owner in the fish line manufactory business of B.F. Gladding & Co., at South Otselic, one of the most successful industries in the State.  He was the son of Herman Hill, who died several years ago, and had always resided at South Otselic.  He was prominent in Republican politics of the county, and had represented his town more in conventions than any one man, and had also attended on frequent occasions, State and district conventions.

Marriages (December 26)

Smith - Phetteplace

Utica Saturday Globe, October 1920

Willard A. & Clare A. (Phetteplace) Smith

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At the Broad Street M.E. parsonage on Thursday afternoon, October 21, at 2:30, Miss Clare A. Phetteplace and Willard A. Smith were married by Rev. Frank W. Young. They were attended by Miss Grace S. Church and Charles R. Brown..  The bride is the daughter of Mrs. Lizzie Phetteplace of Piano street, and the groom is the son of Mrs. Mary Smith, of Sheldon street.  He is a painter by occupation and both young people are members of the orchestra at the Strand Theater.  Mr. Smith was in service for two years during the great war, one year on this side and a second year overseas. Together they have many friends in the city who extend congratulations. They enjoyed a brief wedding journey and are now making their home at 44 Piano street.

 

Buman - Merrill

October 1936

Miss Thelma G. Merrill of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], daughter of Mr. J. William Merrill of Waverly, and Harold A. Buman, son of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Buman of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], were married on Thursday evening, October 15, 1936, at the home of the bride's father in Waverly.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. Raymond P. Wilson of Waverly.  They were attended by Miss Elouise Norris of Binghamton and Mrs. Charles B. Merrill, brother of the bride.  The bride is a graduate of Waverly High School., and the Groom of Afton High School.

 

Benedict - Swart

October 1936

The marriage of Mr. Hobart Benedict and Mrs. Nora Swart, both of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], was solemnized Wednesday evening, October 14, 1936.  The ceremony took place at the Presbyterian manse in Afton, the Rev. Clifford E. Webb being the officiating minister. The bride and groom were attended by Mr. and Mrs. Randolph C. Guy of Afton. After the wedding Mr and Mrs. Benedict departed for a short trip to the western part of the state. The congratulations and best wishes of a host of friends are with them.

 

Marriage Notices

Chenango Union, February 26, 1868

 

In Sherburne, Feb. 18th, by Rev. A.M. Bennett, Mr. Franklin Wilcox to Miss Melinda G. Beene(?), all of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

 

In Greene, Feb. 18th, by Rev. I.B. Hyde, Mr. Wm. B. Cole of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Elizabeth Hayes, of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

 

At the same time and place, by the same, Mr. Frank Corser, to Miss Ellen Rogers, all of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

 

In McDonough, Feb. 19th, by Rev. A.C. Smith, Mr. Milo V. Case to Miss Margaret Reouge, both of German [Chenango Co., NY].

 

In New Hartford, Feb. 18th, by Rev. T.D. Cook of Utica, Mr. A.S. Bamford of Plymouth, Chenango Co., to Miss Phebe K. [Prescott], youngest daughter of Hon. Olin Prescott, of New Hartford.

 

 

Obituaries (December 26)

Charles Greenwood Brooks

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1921

 

Charles Greenwood Brooks

1849 - 1921

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Charles G. Brooks, who died at his home on South Broad Street on Easter Sunday afternoon, was a direct descendant, eight generations removed of Capt. Thomas Brooke, one of the original colonists who settled in Concord, Mass., in 1636.  Deceased was born in Worcester Mass, in 1849, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Moses Brooks.  When 12 years of age the family came to Oxford, Chenango County, to reside.  Charles was educated in the public schools of Oxford, Norwich and New Berlin.  For 30 years Mr. Brooks was a resident of Mt. Upton where he engaged extensively in the wholesale lumber business.  For 12 years he was president of the Board of Education and for several terms represented the town of Guilford in the Chenango County Board of Supervisors.  Upon taking up his residence in Norwich six years ago, Mr. Brooks easily identified himself with the civic and commercial interests of the new city.  He early became a candidate for mayor but largely through lack of acquaintance was defeated.  he had since served in many important public posts.  For three years he had been a member of the Board of Education and was one of the most conscientious and conservative members.  Throughout the World War, at large personal sacrifice, he served as food administrator for Chenango County and gave unselfishly of his time and means to every patriotic effort.  Closely interested in the cause of education one of his last official acts was to pay a visit to the new ward school building on East Main Street.  Apparently in excellent health and the best of spirits he visited the building on Saturday morning and expressed great pleasure at the thorough and complete manner in which the building has bene constructed.  At about 10 o'clock the same evening he suffered an acute attack of heart trouble, his heart having been weakened by a recent critical illness of pneumonia from which he was believed to be on the road to rapid and complete recovery.  In the death of Mr. Brooks Norwich loses an enterprising and public-spirited citizen, one who always kept the best interest of the community at heart.  On March 2, 1898, Mr. Brooks married Miss Emily Cornelia Axtell, of Deposit, who survives him.  He leaves one daughter, Miss Ether S. Brooks, a student in St. Agnes' School, Albany; one brother, Jonas H. Brooks, of Albany, and a nephew, Charles Barnes, of Norwich.  Funeral services were held form his late home at 1:30 on Wednesday afternoon, Rev. J.H. MacConnell officiating.  Burial was made in the family plot in Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY].

Adeliza O. Greene

Afton Enterprise, September 7, 1899

Mrs. Adeliza O. Greene, wife of Truman L. Greene of Afton, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], died on Sunday morning, Sept. 3, 1899, aged 78 years.  Her sufferings were long and severe, yet borne with Christian patience. She had been a member of the Methodist episcopal church for over fifty years, and always in her place in church as long as health permitted.  her last service attended was at the Quarterly meeting in June last.  It was a beautiful sight to see that Christian woman, with the trembling frame tottering to the rail remembering her Savior in this holy communion, taking the emblems of His suffering and death from the hand of an old pastor who had so often been welcomed to her home in his early ministry and now again as the older years are coming on.  While the bells of the churches were ringing out their welcome to the worshipers of earth, the bells of heaven rang out their glad welcome to her happy freed spirit.  And she attuned her voice to the melody of a bright world.  "Friend after friend departs."  She leaves to mourn their loss, a husband, Truman l. Green, and two daughters, Mrs. VanWoert and Mrs. Chruch, who kindly, tenderly, lovingly cared for her in her severe bodily infirmity, and many loving friends.  Her funeral was attended at the home Sept. 5th, Rev. B.B. Carruth officiating, assisted by Rev. C.D. Personeous and C.E. Sweet.  The burial was in the cemetery at North Afton, where the remains of many of her kindred have been laid awaiting the resurrection of the just.  May family and friends so follow the personal, living, divine Christ that when their summons comes to go hence to be no more, they many enter into rest, "Through Him who came to prove that God is love."  "Asleep in Jesus, O how sweet."

Truman L. Green

The death of Truman L. Green occurred at his late home Thursday September 28, 1905, aged 85 years.  Mr. Green was born in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], August 28, 1820, but had been a resident of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], nearly all his life.  August 13, 1846 he married Mrs. Adeliza O. Camp and they went housekeeping on a farm near North Afton.  Mrs. Green died, September 5, 1899, and since that time Mr. Green has been at the home of his daughter Mrs. Delos VanWoert, where he was tenderly ministered to in his last illness by his daughters, Mrs. VanWoert and Mrs. N.B. Chase, who with two granddaughters, Mrs. J.T. Bird and Miss Anna Mary Van Woert, survive him. The funeral was held from the late home Saturday September 30, Rev. B.B. Carruth officiating.  The remains were laid at rest in the East Side cemetery [Afton, NY] with the thought.  "That friend after friend departs, Who hath not lost a friend."

Eliza (Curtis) Angell

Chenango Union, February 26, 1868

At White Store [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 30th, 1868, of typhoid fever, Eliza [Angell], only daughter of George Curtis, and wife of Horatio P. Angell, deceased, aged 25 years.

Our sympathies were deeply moved when, a few months since, the bereaved wife came from her western home, to the home of her childhood, with all her bright hopes hidden under the coffin lid.  Kind friends gathered around her, and performed the last sad rites to the departed; and when all was over, all that love and sympathy could suggest to cheer the lonely one was done, but it could not avail to stay the hand of the Destroyer.  A beautiful little daughter came to her arms to win her back to life and hope, but the same dread disease through which she had watched her husband fastened upon her, and she went down into the dark valley in triumph, leaning upon the Savior, to whom she had given her young heart. She cheerfully gave up her darling child, and all the friends who loved her, and fell asleep in Jesus   E.J.R.

The Voyage Over

The bridegroom and the bride went forth

Upon life's varied sea.

And the sky was blue, and the sun shone bright,

and kindly voices from the shore

Sang "a safe and happy voyage o'er"

 

All day around the bridal barque

Sweet birds of joy and love

Carolled their songs, and yet their notes

Seemed the echoes of those above,

And angel hands from the other shore

Were beckoning the voyagers o'er.

 

One happy year, and a chilling breath

Swept over the barque so fair;

It was the chill of the angel Death,

And the gentle bride so fair.

All alone, all alone, was plying the oar,

Making her way to the farther shore.

 

Not long the strife--the Master's voice

Said to the angel Death.

"Call the weary one home to the land of rest,

Breathe again with thy chilling breath."

Now the voyage of life is safely o'er

And the barque is moored to the heavenly shore

                                                                                             Effie Johnson

 

Death Notices

Chenango Union, February 26, 1868

 

In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 24th, Mr. Chas. R. McCullum, aged 52 years.

 

In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 23d, Mrs. Catharine Emma Fisher, wife of Russell Fisher, aged 17 years, 6 mos.

 

In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 15th, Rebecca [Brower], wife of William Brower, in the 60th year of her age.

 

In Mount Carroll, Ill., Feb. 7th, Mr. H.L. Emmons, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co., NY], aged 60 years.

 

In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 21st, Lucy [Barrows], wife of Mellen Barrows, aged 74 years, 5 months and 18 days.

 

 



 

Blog Postings, December 19-25, 2016)

Listing of blog postings for the week of December 19-26, 2016.

Marriages

Posted December 21, 2016

Hildred l. Powell - Willard Ralph Root (1920)

Mr. & Mrs. Victor Josiah Haynes (1920)

 

Obituaries

Posted December 19, 2016

Edward S. Johnson (Norwich, 1921)  photo

George Cole (Bainbridge, 1925)

Archibald Pellet (Flint MI, Norwich, 1871)

Death Notices - 1871

     Betsey Brooks (Oxford)

     Roxana Fradenberg (Plymouth)

     Elen A. Packer (Preston)

     Ida Howe (Pharsalia)

     George Barnes (East Greene)

     Lucy Elwell (East Guilford)

Posted December 20, 2016
James Nixon (Norwich, Los Angeles CA, Cincinnati OH, 1921)  photo
Frank A. Dolan (Norwich, Oriskany Falls, 1921)
Death Notices
     Viola Cole (1917)
     Lewis Walton Bolles (1932)
     Iva M. Eldred (1916)
     Lewis L. LeSuer (1926)
     Eli C. Makley (1922)
     Herbert Donahe (1920)
     Mildred T. Howe (1931)
     Chauncey W. Harrington (1916)
     Sarah A. Vergason (1926)
     Martha ingalls Bresee (1938)
     Permelia M. Hayes (1922)
     Lydia Sherman (1932)
     Ralph Bresee Thorp (1917)
     Electa Hamlin (1917)

Posted December 21, 2016
Adelia E. Nelson (Norwich, 1921)  Photo
Cordelia S. (Brown) Phetteplace (Norwich, 1916)
Mary Haggerty Kilroe (Norwich, 1908)
David B. Phetteplace (Norwich, 1908)

Posted December 22, 2016
Celia Ann (Scott) Sayles (Norwich, Preston, 1921)  photo
Randall Wheeler (Guilford, 1923)
Edwin C. Wheeler (Oneonta, Guilford, 1885)
Asa Willey (Guilford 1885)
Death Notices 1875 - Guilford
     Nelson Willey (Atchison, KN)
     Mrs. C.J. Westcott (Milford)
     John Thackery
     Mrs. Aaron Wooster
     Mrs. Elverton Mead

Posted December 23, 2016
Ellen A. (Pudney) Reed (Norwich, 1921)  photo
Maria Winston (Bainbridge, 1886)
George Wright (Guilford, 1873)
William Harrington (Sherburne, Castile, 1873)

Posted December 24, 2016
William P. Briggs (Norwich, Smyrna, 1921)
Emmett Phetteplace (Holmesville, White Store, 1928)
Harry H. Phetteplace (White Store, 1904)
John Latham (Franklin, Melondy Hill, 1929)
Walter Cowden (Afton, Delmar, 1929)

Posted December 25, 2016
Cornelius Ryan (Norwich, 1921)
Edwin A. Kingsley (Norwich, Ballston, 1883)
Laurinda A. Miles (Warren KN, Coventry, 1886)
Donald Powers (White Store, 1931)
Death Notices - 1875
     Mrs. C.D. Abbott (Smyrna)
     Hattie E. Walker (Sherburne)
     William A. Thompson (Preston)
     Annie May Tyler (Pharsalia)
     Sylvia A. Jackson (Cheshire MA, Afton)
     Andalusia Schofield (Lexington MO, Pharsalia)


 

Miscellaneous

Posted December 20, 2016

Hayes St. Norwich, NY after a snow storm, 1921   photo
Birth Notices from scrapbook of Louise Marie (Donahe) Fenderson
     Richard L. Johnson (1945)
     Frank Russell Alger (1939)
     Glenn Raymond Lanfair (1937)
     Daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Elmer Archer (1933)
     Richard Winthrop Hoyt (1933)
     Douglas Hinds Grow (1936)
     Earl Charles Reiling (1936)
     Sherill Jean Alger (1938)
     Son of Mr. & Mrs. Cameron Collins (1934)
     Clayton Douglas Wakeman (1934)
     Jeanne Marie Burlison
     Daughter of George and Hattie Macumber Blankley (1933)
Chenango & Unadilla Valleys, 50 Years Ago, 1872

Posted December 23, 2016
Norwich NY Soldiers 1917 - Photos
     Otis Fredenberg - Machine Gun Corps
     Francis Clark - Mosquito Fleet
     George Phillips Ellsworth - Infantry
     George Story - Infantry
     Ralph F. Deuel - Infantry

Posted December 24, 2016
Frank Wood Inherits Fortune - 1929


Obituaries (December 25)

Cornelius Ryan

Utica Saturday Globe, February 1921

 

Cornelius Ryan

1872 - 1921

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Cornelius Ryan, who died at the Norwich Memorial Hospital on Monday evening, had been a resident of Norwich for more than 20 years, coming here form Ireland, where he was born 49 years ago.  He found employment at the Ontario & Western shops where he remained until six or seven years ago since which he had been with the David Maydole Hammer Company.  Throughout his residence here he had enjoyed the confidence and esteem of a large circle of acquaintances.  Fifteen years ago Mr. Ryan married Miss Anna Clohessy, of this city, who survives him with one daughter, Hannah.  He also leaves two brothers, John, of Chicago, and William, who with two sisters, Alice and Catherine, live in Ireland.  Funeral services were held from his late home at 9 o'clock on Thursday morning and in St. Paul's church at 9:30, Rev. Joseph S. Tiernan officiating.  Interment was made in Mount Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY].  Friends were present at the funeral from Binghamton, Utica and other places.

 

Edwin A. Kingsley

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, January 6, 1883

Edwin A. Kingsley, formerly a resident of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], died at the home of his parents at South Ballston [Saratoga Co., NY] on Thursday of last week.  Mr. K. came to this village soon after graduating at Union College, and entered upon the study of law with one of our village lawyers.  After he was admitted he went to Syracuse and entered upon the practice of his profession.  Failing health compelled him to give up all business two years ago, since which time he has gradually declined.  He was held in high esteem by his associates of the Onondaga County Bar, and many of our own citizens bear him in pleasant remembrance.

 

Laurinda A. Miles

Chenango Union, January 28, 1886

At Warren, Cloud county, Kansas, at the home of her niece, Mrs. C.N. Hughston, on Wednesday evening, December 30, 1885, after a few days illness, Miss Laurinda A. Miles passed quietly, peacefully to the "rest" that "remaineth."  Though for some time in declining health, those who felt the genial influence of her presence in their home thought not of her departure until a few hours previous to her death, when all unlooked, for the commissioned angel touched her, and falling into tranquil sleep she passed the portals opening to a higher life.  She was born in the town of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], (the part since annexed to Coventry), Chenango county, N.Y., and while young united with the Congregational church at Coventryville.  Her life was passed in her native town, excepting a few years in Unadilla, Otsego county, previous to the removal of Mr. Hughston's family to Kansas, in 1873, when she accompanied them.  She was a daughter of Moses Miles, an early pioneer from Cheshire, Ct., to this place. But the large family have gone "over the river one by one," till only the youngest remains--Mrs. W.H. Benedict, of Coventryville.  No more truthful or fitting tribute to her memory can be recorded than that already penned by one who from her saddened heart and lonely home sent the message of her death, when she says:  "Always here--always ready--always willing to share in privation or prosperity--cheerful, and trying to lighten the burdens of others, was her life.  Self was nothing, only as she lived to do good for others.  her life was one long preparation.  She was ready to go at any time.  What a memory she has left.  But oh! the lonely, aching hearts of those who knew her best."  Coventryville, January 1886.

 

Donald Powers

South New Berlin Bee, October 15, 1931

White Store [Chenango Co., NY]:  Donald, son of Mr. and Mrs. H .G. Powers, died Monday morning, aged two years and eight oaths.  He suffered an attack of whooping cough, and being a frail little fellow, could not throw it off as a stronger child might have done and so little Don, as he was fondly called, fell asleep.  The funeral, which was held from the home Wednesday was private.  The family wish to thank every one who in any way assisted them, for the beautiful flowers, use of cars and many acts of kindness.

With the light there came an angel,

Whispering "Donnie" go with me,

To a land of song and flowers,

Where form pain you're ever free.

May the mourners in their sorrow,

Look to Him who ruleth all,

Gaining strength from unseen power,

To accept the Master's call.

 

Mr. and Mrs. George Page attended the funeral of Mrs. Page's grandson, son of Mr. and Mrs. H.G. Powers, at White Store, Wednesday.  The little fellow was 2 years, 8 months old, a frail little body and he could not stand the dread disease of whooping cough, so he passed away Monday, Oct. 5th, at 11:30 a.m.  We feel that God's will has been done and our loss is little Donald's gain.

 

Death Notices

Chenango Union, July 8, 1875

 

ABBOTT:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], June 25, Mrs. C.D. Abbott, aged 45 years.

 

WALKER:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], June 30, Hattie E. [Walker], daughter fo Elhanan Walker, aged 15 years, 6 months.

 

THOMPSON:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], June 23, 1875, William A. [Thompson], son of Lewis and Mary Thompson, aged 7 years.

 

TYLER:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], June 30, Annie May [Tyler], daughter of John B., and mary E. Tyler, aged 3 years 6 months 20 days.

 

Chenango Union, July 15, 1875

 

JACKSON:  In Cheshire, Mass., July 7, 1875, Mrs. Sylvia A. Jackson, widow of the late Merlin Jackson of Afton [Chenango Co., NY].  Services held at the home of her son, J.B Chaffee in Binghamton.

 

SCHOFIELD:  In Lexington, Mo., on June 1st, Andalusia [Schofield], wife of Judge Jessie Schofield, and daughter of G.W. Eddy, aged 47, late of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY]