Reunion of 114th Regiment - 1899

Reunion of the 114th

Recalls the Day the Regiment Returned Over 34 Years Ago

Utica Saturday Globe, October 1899

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The 27th annual reunion of the survivors of the One Hundred  and Fourteenth Regiment, N.Y.S.V., was held at Earlville on Thursday. The day was ideal and the veterans were most hospitably entertained and the exercises were entered into and enjoyed with a zest fully equal to that of any similar occasion.

 

Among the events which the day recalled, none was more vivid in the minds of the veterans than the retune of the regiment from the war and the incidents that accompanied it up to the time of their disbandment in Norwich upon the same spot on which they had been mustered in nearly three years before.

 

On the 8th of June, 1865, the regiment was mustered out at Washington and on the 10th arrived in Elmira, where they were subjected to a tedious delay of several days before receiving their pay and their discharge papers. They do not entertain very pleasant recollections of this part of their experiences.  On Saturday they boarded a train for Binghamton.  As the train was leaving the Elmira depot George Agard, a member of Company B, while trying to get aboard after the train started, fell between the wheels and was instantly crushed to death. After escaping the perils of three years' service he was killed immediately after pocketing his discharge.

 

At 6 o'clock the train arrived at Binghamton.  Although taken by surprise, the citizens hurried about in force to greet and "grub" the returning soldiers.  The night was spent there and after an hour's ride by rail, Chenango Forks, then the nearest railroad point to Norwich, was reached early on Sunday morning. there a delegation from Greene met them and conveyed them in wagons and carriages to Greene, where they arrived about noon amid the booming of cannon and the glad shouts of the populace. They were most enthusiastically entertained until near night, when they embarked upon the waters of the "raging canal" bound for Oxford, where at 3 o'clock in the morning the thunder of cannon announced their arrival.  Oxford had been sleeping with one eye open and was fully prepared to give them a warm and generous welcome. They were fed upon their arrival and again at 9 o'clock in the morning, after which some formal exercises were indulged in. 

 

Vehicles had been provided to bring them to Norwich.  Every mile of the ride was a continual ovation and their entire journey through the valley was a grand triumphal procession. At noon cannon and bells denoted their approach.  Near the cemetery they left the vehicles and fell into line, excepting the wounded and disabled, who remained in the carriages.  Those on foot were supplied with muskets--their own having been turned over to the government at Elmira--by Col. L.A. Rhodes, from the armory of the One Hundred and Third regiment, N.G.S.N.Y., and marshaled by Capt. Robert Stanton and George H. Spry they were escorted by the Norwich Brass Band, Fire Department, teachers and students in the Academy and an immense concourse of citizens. Evergreen arches, appropriately inscribed, spanned the streets and flags and banners waved a welcome.  To the music of the band was added the louder tones of cannon and village bells and the welcoming shouts of thousands of men, women and children.

 

In Dr. Beecher's history of the regiment, from which these facts are gleaned, we find penned this paragraph:  "Fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters, were standing by the roadside, eagerly looking for the long absent soldier boys. There were many fond embraces, hearty hand shakings and familiar words of endearment as that joyous procession moved forward.  But alas! there were many tearful eyes gazing upon the thin and shattered ranks of the regiment.  Sorrowful faces were there which looked in vain for many loved forms that were lying in unmarked graves beneath the southern soil."

 

Arriving at the Public square--now Westside Park--they found it filled with a multitude of people.  The regiment moved forward at double quick to the front of the court House, where arms were grounded, and with uncovered heads the men gave devout attention while Rev. Samuel Scoville offered a prayer of thanksgiving.  Hon. Lewis Kingsley made an address of welcome and Col. Per Lee made a brief response.  During these formal exercises a photograph was taken by Photographer James B. Marquis....

 

The formalities over the regiment reformed and marched out West Main street to the fair grounds and to Floral Hall, where they "sat down to the most gorgeous dinner every spread in Chenango county."  All ceremony was discarded and the boys soon dispensed with the elaborate provisions.  Floral Hall stood near what is now [in 1899] the site of the residence of D.E. Comstock and Mrs. Benjamin Barber.  It had been planned to have a dress parade in the evening, but many of the Norwich men went home immediately after the reception, such was their eagerness to be with their friends. Those from other towns spent the night in Norwich and were breakfasted in Floral Hall before taking their departure.

Obituaries (March 4)

Marvin A. Dimmick

Utica Saturday Globe, January 1900

 

Marvin A. Dimmick

1820 - 1900

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Another pioneer resident of Chenango county has gone over to the silent majority.  At the residence of his son-in-law, William Crandall, in South Plymouth, on Monday January 13, 1900, Marvin A. Dimmick died in his 80th year.  He was the son of Joseph and Mary Dimmick, who came to this county in the early years of the century and settled in the town of Plymouth, where they arrived on the last day of February, 1807.  They were married in Massachusetts the first day of February and started overland in a sleigh, but finished their month's journey in a wagon, enjoying the experiences common to those primitive days. They came from sturdy New England stock and waged life's battles successfully amid all the hardships and deprivations that beset them and acquired quite a large farm property.  Nine children were born to them, six sons and three daughters.  One of the daughters died in infancy and another passed away at the age of 41, but the remaining daughter and all the sons lived out their allotted space of three score years and ten.  Mr. Dimmick, the father, died at 81, and the wife and mother lived to be 94.  Marvin A. Dimmick was the sixth son and was born September 23, 1820.  He succeeded his father upon the farm where he was born and which continued to be his home the larger part of his life.  He took a great interest in politics and was an unswerving Democrat, priding himself upon his opinions and his party.  It is said that he never but once failed to vote his ballot, and then when absent on a visit in the west.  In the spring of 1852 he was made keeper of the county house in Preston, where he remained for five years.  He was later nominated for supervisor of Plymouth and came within a few votes of being elected in that strong Republican town.  As a candidate for collector he fared better and was elected and served two terms, showing that he was personally popular.  He was regarded by all as an honest man, a good neighbor and an excellent citizen.  He was one of the oldest members of the Norwich lodge of Masons, and was made a master Mason December 24, 1863.  Mr. Dimmick was married January 1, 1846, to Sarah A. Heady, who died July 31, 1879.  Three daughters were born to them, of whom Mrs. Theron N. Holmes, of Norwich, and Mrs. William B. Crandall survive. The third daughter, Ellen A. Dimmick, died May 4, 1883.  Two brothers, Dwight, of Owosso, Mich. and Elijah, of Missoula, Mont., and one sister, Mrs. Mary C. Heady, of Norwich, also survive. The funeral was held Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock, under Masonic auspices, Rev. Albert Clark, of Plymouth officiating.  The remains were laid at rest in the Dimmick Cemetery, the site of which originally formed a part of the Dimmick homestead farm.  [South Plymouth, Chenango Co., NY].

 

Henry O. Southworth

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, August 2, 1879

Henry O. Southworth, formerly and for many years a lawyer of distinction and promise, living at New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], in the county, died at Bridgewater on Tuesday last, in his sixty seventh year.  The prominence of Mr. S. while a resident of this county, calls for more than a passing notice.  He was born in Bridgewater in March 1813, his father being Rev. James Southworth, then a Presbyterian clergyman of considerable popularity in that locality. At the age of nineteen, Henry entered Hamilton College.  When he entered the senior year he commenced the study of law, with Willard Crafts, then a leading lawyer in Utica.  He was admitted to the bar in 1839, just forty years ago.  He soon settled to practice at New Berlin, and entered at once upon an extensive career in Justice court practice in this county [Chenango], Otsego and Madison.  His fame extended beyond the borders of his own town, and in 1853 he became the nominee of his party for District Attorney. The power of the Democracy had even then began to waver in old Chenango, and he was beaten by Hon. Isaac S. Newton, of this village, who was the Whig candidate by a majority of a bare baker's dozen.  Mr. Southworth felt his defeat bitterly, and did not hesitate to denounce his partisan associates for suffering him to be thus sacrificed, and finally in 1855, he left the county, and took up his residence in Rome, where he formed a partnership with the late D.C. Pomeroy which continued for about fifteen years, embracing within its limit a practice seldom accorded to any firm.  In 1874, Mr. Southworth 's health failed him and with the hope of relief that change of practice and climate would bring him, he went to New York.  His expectations were realized, his health improved and established a business more congenial to his declining years.  His early habits, however, clung to him and he continued his characteristic hard work in his profession, which eventuated in February last, the breaking him down, and disabling him from the further active duties of life.  He returned to the home of his nativity, at Bridgewater, which had always had unusual attractions for him, to die, amid the friends of his youth, to be buried at the home of his childhood, with those of his kindred who had gone before.  He leaves a widow, one son ad three daughters.  Mr. Southworth was a good lawyer, the peer in many respects of any in Central New York.  In his practice he often measured strength with our own B.F. Rexford, Bown of Otsego, and Nye, of Madison, and those able jurists who associated with them at that period, standing out conspicuously as advocates.  Socially, he was a man of great power and an universal favorite, and his pleasing manner and laughter provoking stories, have often whiled away the tedium of the passing hour.  Many of the older citizens of this county will unite with us in this passing though imperfect tribute to the worth and memory of Henry O. Southworth.

 

Sullivan Reynolds

Chenango Union, May 31, 1883

Sullivan Reynolds died in Butternuts, Otsego Co., N.Y., May 15th, 1883, aged 74 years.  The subject of this sketch was born in Guilford, Chenango Co., N.Y., where his parents moved some eighty-four years before from Rhode Island.  He belonged to a family of five sons and two daughters, only one of whom survives him, the Widow Burdick, of Guilford Centre, N.Y.  He was a man of stern integrity, and of a meek and quiet spirit, which made him a good neighbor, a good citizen, a kind husband, a loving father, and won for him many friends who will greatly miss him as time goes by.  It became evident to his children that for some time before his death, he thought his end was nigh, for he seemed to be carefully arranging all his business matters, by sorting all of his papers, and repacking and labelling them, throwing unimportant ones away, so that all matters pertaining to his estate might be clearly understood by his children who might survive him.  He read his Bible much during this time, which is evidence that while he was arranging his earthly concerns, he was also preparing for that world to which he was so soon to go.  This all done, he laid his glasses by his papers, and soon after took a fever, which ended in a disease of the lungs, which terminated his life on earth.  His three sons will greatly miss him, but they will find great comfort in the fact that they can think of nothing but good towards them in the long life of their father who has left them behind, and gone on to join his companions, and their mother, on eternity's shore.  The floral display seen in his beautiful home, on the banks of the Unadilla, and the ripe sheaf of wheat which laid on his casket, were emblematical of his mature life, and the ever green shore to which we have no doubt all who knew him believe he has gone.  Plains, Pa., May 26, 1883   N.S. Reynolds

 

Death Notices

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, August 2, 1879

 

FRENCH:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on Friday, July 25th, Ebenezer French, in the sixty-second year of his age.

 

HETRICK:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], July 26th, Robert Hetrick, aged 67 years.

 

WINSTON:  In Troy, Bradford county, Pa. July 23d, Lewis Winston, formerly of Greene, aged 98 years 11 months and 6 days.

 

WILLCOX:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], July 9th, Daisy Belle [Willcox], adopted daughter of Samuel and Demis Willcox, aged 8 years.

 

NOWLAN:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], July 22d,  Katie [Nowlan} daughter of Thomas P. and Maggie Nowlan, aged 2 years.

 

ROBBINS:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], July 10th, Mrs. Maria Robbins, wife of the late Myron Robbins, aged 57 years.

 

BANKS:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], July 23d, Willie [Banks], son of John and Sophia Banks, aged 16 years.

 

DIMMICK:  At South Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], July 31, Sarah A. Dimmick, wife of Marvin Dimmick, aged 57 years.  Funeral at the residence of her husband today (Saturday) at three o'clock, P.M.

Chenango & Unadilla Vallys in 1820s

The Chenango and Unadilla Valleys Fifty Years Ago

by Samuel Sidwell Randall

Chenango Telegraph, May 15, 1872

 

Columbus

Columbus, a few miles north of New Berlin village, was formed from Brookfield, Madison county, and a part of Norwich, in 1805 and 1807.  The village, situated near the center of the town, contains three churches, a hotel, tannery, several stores and shops, and some twenty or thirty dwellings.  The original patent for the lands included within its boundary, was granted to John Taylor, in3 1790, at 60 cents per acre.  Col. Converse, according to Mr. Child, was the first settler, in 1791.  In the succeeding year, Henry, Daniel and James Williams, from Rhode Island, removed into the town, and in 1794, Thomas Howard from Rhode Island, Israel Greenleaf, from New Hampshire, Gilbert Strong,  Josiah Rathbone, and Melica Tuttle effected settlements.  Mr. Tuttle was still living in 1869, at the advanced age of 94, with his great-grandchildren, on the farm where he originally settled, and where in 1795 with the aid of his boys and a large dog, he slew a ferocious bear weighing two hundred pounds.  Joshua Lamb came to Columbus from Worcester, Mass., in July, 1804.  At the first town meeting in 1805, held at the house of Jonathan Brownell, Tracy Robinson was chosen Supervisor, Ambrose Hyde, Town Clerk, and Joshua Lamb, Collector.

 

The first birth in the town was that of Sally Williams, the first marriage that of Joseph Medbury to Hannah Brown, in 1794, and the first death that of Mrs. Dorcas Howard, in 1797.  Nicholas Page taught the first school, Col. Converse kept the first inn, and Amos C. Palmer the first store, in 1797.  Job Vail built the grist and saw mill in 1794-5.  the last "wolf's long howl on Unadilla's shore" was heard in 1803 on the birth day of Amos Tuttle.  The entire population of the town is about 1,500 [in 1872].

Obituaries (March 3)

Syrus Buell Merrihew

Utica Saturday Globe, January 1900

 

Syrus Buell Merrihew

1815 - 1900

Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY]:  This town lost one of her worthiest citizens Saturday morning in the death of Syrus Buell Merrihew.  He was born in North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], December 31, 1815, and the 84 years of his life had been spent in Chenango county.  His parents, John and Phoebe Merrihew, were originally from New Bedford, Mass., but moved into this section from Dutchess county in this State. They were very religious people and as all of their eleven children grew up into mature years became members of the Christian Church.  One is still living, Mrs. Esther Ward, of Hudson, Mich.

 

The subject of our sketch was converted when 7 years old and united with the Baptist Church at North  Norwich in 1831.  He continued to be a worthy, consistent, faithful and prominent adherent of the faith until death.  He had also served as deacon in the Sherburne Baptist Church for 22 years.  In 1843 he was married to Abereul Fisher, daughter of Deacon Ezra Fisher, of South New Berlin.  The happy union was broken several years ago by death, leaving three daughters, Nancy, Martha and Anna, who still survive their father.  The departed was a cooper by trade, but in late years he had worked as a carpenter and joiner.  In the latter trade he was especially proficient, skillful and thorough.  In many devices which he worked out he showed that he had inherited a great degree of Yankee ingenuity.  He was a man of some literary ability.  Among his papers are found musical compositions and poems, some of which having in them peculiar merit.  His diary, which was kept at intervals, contained especially reflections on his religious feelings and aspirations, written in fine style.  Many years ago when stenography was little studied and its admirers were few, he had given attention to that art; and had become quite adept in it.  He was also very fond of reading, and even in his declining days was anxious to peruse the latest books from the press.

 

All these characteristics made Mr. Merrihew a very interesting man and a pleasant conversationalist.  He was a man much beloved by all classes and ages, and of excellent reputation for his cheerful disposition, integrity, and neighborliness. The town of Plymouth, South  New Berlin, Smyrna and Sherburne knew him as noted for these good qualities.  The last 24 years were lived in Sherburne, in which his genial features and ways were known to everybody.  In politics he was a staunch Republican and always informed himself on the issues of every campaign.

 

His death was due to hemorrhages following an epileptic shock.  The funeral took place on Tuesday afternoon and was attended by a large concourse of people.  The service was conducted by his pastor, Rev. J.W. Griffith, in the Sherburne Baptist church, the deacons acting as bearers.  In the address Deacon Merrihew was spoken of as a man of active, bright and intelligent Christian faith. Burial was at North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].  He will be missed as an upright citizen and an exemplary Christian man.

Horatio A. Curtis

Norwich Sun, December 20, 1939

The death of Horatio A. Curtis, well known resident of this city and county occurred at 7 o'clock Wednesday morning at the Chenango Memorial Hospital.  Mr. Curtis was admitted to the hospital Tuesday.  Born in White Store April 28, 1868, he was the son of Charles and Amy Shippey Curtis.  Mr. Curtis was a graduate of the Boston Conservatory of Music.  He was in business in this city until about 1912 when he became associated with the Hadley Company of Charleston, West Virginia.  continuing with that company until his retirement in 1931.  For a time Mr. Curtis was a director of the Norwich city band.  He was a member of the Masonic lodge in this city and Norwich Commandery.  Mr. Curtis is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Robert S. Wait of Syracuse and Mrs. Bryce D. Blakeley of Bainbridge.  Four grandchildren also survive. 

Norwich Sun, December 23, 1939

Funeral services for Horatio Curtis were held Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Breese Funeral Home. Rev. Lloyd S. Charters, rector of Emmanuel Episcopal church officiated.  Burial was made in the White Store cemetery [Chenango Co., NY].  The services were largely attended by former associates, relatives and friends.  Serving as honorary bearers were George Crane, W.A. Baldwin, Charles H. Hunt, R.D. Case and James Lucas.  Active bearers were Harry S. Hunt, Frank Hunt, Larry Johnson, F.L. Burchard and Judge T.C. Bonney.

Fremont E. Benedict

Daily Press, Utica, NY, December 1939

New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY]:  Fremont E. Benedict, 77, retired, died at his home in N. Main St., Dec. 18, 1939, after an illness of two months.  He was a son of Caroline Dart and Jared Hawley Benedict, and was born in Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].  When 18, he went West where for several years, he worked in the dairy business.  He was also associated with the Moseley Stoddard Co., for nine years in Rutland, Vt. later he was employed by the De La Val Separator Company of New York for 15 years. 

Norwich Sun, December 20, 1939

He was united in marriage with Martha Louden on September 17, 1902 who survives with two sons, Fremont of Upper Darby, Pa. and William, at home.  Also surviving are one sister, Mrs. Lilla Sholes of Columbus, two nephews, Floyd and Jay Sholes, and two grandsons, Robert and Walter.  Mr. Benedict retired from business about 22 years ago.  He returned with his family to the scenes of his boyhood where he resided for some years on what is now the Walter Page farm, removing 16 years ago to his present home on North Main street.  A well read man and one who possessed a rare philosophy of life, a brilliant and interesting conversationalist, he will be greatly missed by a large circle of friends.  The funeral will be held on Thursday, Dec. 21 at 2 o'clock from the Daken home, the Rev. nelson F. Parke officiating. Bearers will be Mr. Benedict's two nephews, Floyd and Jay Sholes, and Messrs. Kirk Thompson, Walter Page, Paul Southern and Sidney Coats.  Interment will be in St. Andrew's cemetery [New Berlin, NY].

Joanna Curtis

Otsego Journal, August 16, 1894

The sudden death of the bright little daughter of Joseph Curtis, of White Store, on Sunday evening was one of the most distressing events that has agitated that quaint community in a long time.  She with her mother were calling at the residence of Sidney Skinner, near Holmesville, when the little one was suddenly seized with a choking fit and died shortly after being conveyed home by the agitated mother.  Dr. Smith was hastily summoned, but arrived too late to be of any assistance.  Opinion is divided as to whether her death was caused by a bean, a quantity of which she had been playing with, or from some internal cause. The doubt can only be settled by an autopsy which will occur on Tuesday morning.  Her age was two and one-half years.  The funeral will occur on Tuesday at 8 p.m.

George C. Odell

Otsego Journal, August 16, 1894

An event daily expected for some weeks was the death of Mr. Odell, which occurred on Friday night, at his residence on the Guilford road [Chenango Co., NY].  For nearly sixty years he had resided upon the place where he died, near which he was born, nearly eighty-two years ago.  As a quaint inoffensive Christian man through his long life he bore an enviable reputation, and as was pertinently remarked by a friend escaped to a remarkable degree the shafts of calumny that it is the lot of most mortals to encounter.  Nearly all his life he was connected with the church and nearly sixty years ago was a class leader in the church at Rockdale. At the age of fourteen years he lost his father, his death creating a profound sensation at that time, having been at the hands of an assassin near Mt. Upton cemetery.  The body was thrown into the river from a bridge then spanning the river a short distance below.  It was one of the murders that did not out, as the guilty party, although his identity was suspected, was never apprehended. At about the age of twenty-one Mr. Odell was married to the eldest daughter of Heman St. John, who survives him.  He also leaves two children, Marvin Odell and Mrs. Wm. Burrows, all of whom sincerely mourn his loss, with many other relatives and friends.  The burial occurred from his late residence on Sunday, Rev. L.A. Wild, of Sidney, officiating.

 

 

Obituaries (March 2)

Michael M. Foy

Utica Saturday Globe, January 1913

 

Michael M. Foy

1840-1913

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Michael  M. Foy, of this village, died at a hospital in Wilkesbarre, Pa., on Tuesday afternoon.  For some time he had been a sufferer from Bright's disease and only Friday of last week left his home here for Wilkesbarre for treatment.  Upon his arrival at the hospital he sank rapidly and the attending physician pronounced his case hopeless.  His remains were brought back on Wednesday afternoon.  Mr. Foy was 43 years of age and leaves a wife and several children.  He had been for many years an employee of the Maydole Hammer company and was formerly a member of the Maydole Hose Company.  He was popular among a large acquaintance.  Funeral services were held from his late home on North Broad street at 9 o'clock this morning and from St. Paul's Church at 10 o'clock, Rev. Father John A. Hart officiating. Burial in St. Paul's Cemetery [Norwich, NY].

 

James E. Macksey

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1899

James E. Macksey, who had been confined to his home for two years with locomter ataxia, died at his home on Turner street Thursday morning, aged 39.  Mr. Macksey was born in Ireland and came to this country with his parents when 5 years of age. At the age of 17 he entered the employ of the late Charles H. Merritt as coachman and had the general care of the horses and oversight of the grounds at the Merritt residence since that time.  He was one of the original members of Maydole Hose Company and a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians and for several years held a responsible position in Norwich Fire Department.  He is survived by his wife and one son, his mother, Mrs. Ellen Macksey, two brothers, John F., of Dannemora, and Thomas H., of Norwich, and one sister, Mrs. Michael Finnegan, of this village.  His funeral will be held Saturday morning from St. Paul's Church, the Norwich Fire department and the A.O.H. attending in a body.

 

Mary A. Smith

Utica Saturday Globe, November 1899

Mrs. Mary A. Smith, widow of James Henry Smith, died on Wednesday at the home of her niece, Mrs. M.H. Sullivan, aged 82.  She was born in North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], where she married in 1840, Isaac Bockee, of that place, and after his death some years later she was married to James Henry Smith, then a prominent business man in Norwich and the first president of the National Bank of Norwich.  Since the death of Mr. Smith in 1872 she has made her home in Norwich during the summer, and in the winter has usually visited in warmer parts of the country.  She was a member of the First Baptist Church and was among the most liberal contributors of its support. She leaves one son, Jacob Bockee, of Louisville, Ky.  Her funeral will take place at 11 o'clock Saturday morning, Rev. Robert N. Martin officiating. Burial in North Norwich. 

 

Reuben C. Klock

Utica Saturday Globe, November 1899

Reuben C. Klock, father of Rev. E.J. Klock, pastor of the Congregational Church in this village , passed away at his home in Canajoharie [Montgomery Co., NY], on Thursday, aged 71.  He had been in failing health for some months and about wo weeks ago he had the misfortune to fall down stairs, sustaining injuries which hastened his death.  He is survived by his wife and four sons, Rev. Edwin J. Klock, of  Norwich; Dr. A.V. Klock, of Ames, and Willard G. and Albert M. Klock, of Canajoharie.  Rev. Mr. Klock left Thursday for that palce and will remain until after the funeral, which will occur on Saturday morning.

 

Marriages (March 1)

Babcock - Whitmore

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1899

Linn Horatio Babcock - Marion Olive Whitmore

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], June 16--For weeks social circles here and at Sherburne and throughout the county have been agog over the approaching wedding of two prominent and popular young society people.  The event has been looked forward to as one marking an era in matrimonial matters not only binding as it did two hearts in happy union but bring into close and lasting relationship two of the first families in central New York. A large number of invitations were issued and the brilliant nuptial event was fittingly celebrated at Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] last Wednesday evening.  The contracting parties were Marion Olive Whitmore, only daughter of Hon. George B. Whitmore, of Sherburne, and Linn Horatiio Babcock, son of Dr. and Mrs. Linn Babcock, of Norwich.

 

The solemn ceremony occurred at 8 o'clock at Christ Episcopal Church, which had been appropriately and beautifully prepared for the occasion.  Two evergreen arches spanned the main aisle, at the head of which stood an arbor of evergreens.  White and pink ribbons stretched from the arches to the arbor, beneath the canopy of which white doves nestled holding in their bills white and pink ribbons running to the marriage bell of pink roses suspended from the chancel arch. The chancel and front of the auditorium were made beautiful with palms, hydrangeas, large bouquets of pink and white roses and carnations.  The pews for the guests were marked with bouquets of pink and white carnations.  Pink and white were the wedding colors.

 

For an hour before the ceremony Miss Kate Fowler, organist of the First Presbyterian Church, of Binghamton, rendered an organ prelude including among other selections the overture to Lohengrin by Wagner, Nuptial march by Guilmant, Air et Rigandon of McDonnell, Pilgrim's chorus by Tannhauser, extract from Persian Garden by Lehmann, March Militaire by Shubert and the Norwegian Bridal Procession.  In the midst of the prelude program, Miss Juddena Clark, of Elmira, sang Sancta Maria by Foure.

 

The bridal party entered the church to the soft, sweet strains of the Bridal Chorus from Lohengrin, the ushers, Messrs. Herman Herring, of Walton, Fred Delavan and Orman T. Babcock, of Norwich, and George L. Shepard, of Sherburne, leading and, followed by the bridesmaids, Miss  Mary Jane Robinson, of Madrid, and Mabel Franklin Greenman, of Norwich, attired in white silk mull over white taffeta and carrying shower bouquets of pink carnations.  The maid of honor, Miss Lena Belle Babcock, followed attired in pink taffeta with chiffon trimmings and carrying a shower bouquet of white carnations.  Then came the bride, unattended, radiant in a gown of ivory white satin with duchess lace and pearl trimmings, and diamond ornaments.  She wore a veil of duchess lace fastened with an aigrette of orange blossoms from which sparkled a diamond sunburst, the wedding gift from her mother.  Never did a bride look more beautiful and charmingly prepossessing.  At the arbor she was met by the groom, who advanced from the chapel at the right accompanied by the best man, his brother, Adrian P. Babcock, of Norwich.  Here the party paused while the bride and groom, accompanied by the maid of honor and the best man advanced to the altar and the ceremony was performed by Rev. F.B. Keable, rector of the church, the beautiful and impressive Episcopal service being employed, the bride being given away by her father.

 

At the close of the ceremony as the bridal party turned from the altar the strains of Mendelssohn's grand wedding march pealed forth from the organ.  The party and guests at once repaired to the spacious and elegant residence of the bride's parents on State street, where a royal reception was held.  Here as at the church the hands of the floral artists had been busy and under the direction of Decorator Shaw, of Utica, the rooms had been transformed into bowers of beauty.  Palms, Hydrangeas, smilax, pink and white roses and carnations being used in profusion.  Nothing that artistic sense could suggest or taste arrange was lacking.  The ample porches were enclosed with large flags and the hours swiftly passed in congratulations, merriment, dancing to the music of Rath's Orchestra, of Utica, and viewing the costly and splendid arrange of wedding presents which were arranged in the upper hall.  Conspicuous among these was a $10,000 United States Government registered bond, the market value of which is over $13,000.  This was the gift of the bride's father, Hon. George B. Whitmore.  Among the other gifts were a solid silver tea set, server and water service from the parents of the groom, set of solid silver spoons from Adrian Babcock, uncle of the groom, set of solid spoons and forks from Mrs. Olive Bassett, the bride's grandmother, onyx table from the bride's uncle, D.W. Whitmore, of New York, onyx stand from Alert Hose Company, Norwich, and pieces of cut glass, china and other gifts almost without number. The gift of the groom to the bride was a gold watch and chatelaine, and to the ushers pearl stick pins.  The gift of the bride to the groom was a diamond stud and to the maid of honor and bridesmaids pearl crescents.  During the reception delicious refreshments were served by Caterer Owens, of Utica.

 

Mr. and Mrs. Babcock will enjoy a wedding journey of two or three weeks, after which they will reside in Norwich.  Shortly after their return they will be given a reception by Dr. and Mrs. Linn Babcock, parents of the groom.

 

Many people from Norwich and other places were in attendance at the wedding.

Obituaries (February 27)

Hiram Hale

Utica Saturday Globe, January 1900

 

Hiram Hale

1817 - 1900

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At the residence of his son, H. Oscar Hale, Wednesday, January 17, 1900, Hiram Hale died at the advanced age of 82.  He had been ill for a long time and for more than a year had been confined to his room.  Mr. Hale was born in New Lisbon, Otsego county, N.Y., September 27, 1817, his parents having come from Connecticut into the then wilds of central New York, several years before.  About the year 1840 he moved to Pharsalia, in this county, where on November 2, 1842, he married Abigail Newton.  After residing in Pharsalia 10 or 12 years he came to Norwich and settled on a farm northwest of the village and just off the corporation limits, which continued to be his home for 44 years until four years ago next April when he retired and since had made his residence in the village.  He became a leading member of the First Baptist church which he joined in 1854, and was later elected one of the deacons. Throughout his long life he engaged in faithful, consistent Christian service.  Politically he was a staunch and loyal Republican and held to the tenets of that party as faithfully as he did to his religious creed.  His aged widow survives him and one son, H. Oscar Hale, of this village, and two daughters, Mrs. Eliza Brown, of  Norwich, and Mrs. Maria Foster, of Omaha, Neb.  A son died in infancy.  An only sister, Mrs. Eliza Slater, of Norwich, also survives.  One remaining brother, Samuel, resides in California.  Five brothers had passed on before. The funeral services will be held from his son's residence, 74 South Broad street, Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock, rev. Robert Martin officiating. Burial in Mount Hope [Norwich, NY].

 

Charles Curtis

Otsego Journal, May 17, 1882

Chas. Curtis died at his home in this village today, Wednesday, about 10 o'clock after a severe illness.  He had been gaining from the pneumonia until Monday, when erysipelas set in, and he grew gradually worse.  During the time Charles has lived in this town he has made many friends.  He has been actively engaged in business, buying produce most of the time, and in that capacity has come in contact with nearly all of our people.  He will be missed from the village.  He leaves a wife and one son, Horatio, who in their bereavement have the sympathy of all. The funeral will be held at the house on Friday at 11 a.m.  Charles was a brother of Maj. O.H. Curtis, of Oxford, and J.T. Curtis, of White Store.

 

Joanna Curtis

Otsego Journal, August 23, 1894

The autopsy on the body of little Joanna Curtis, who was choked to death at White Store [Chenango Co., NY] one week ago Sunday, confirmed the diagnosis of Dr Smith who made the post mortem, that her heath was caused by strangulation, caused by some foreign substance being introduced into the trachea.  He found a large bean lodged there, which set at rest the stories which were current that the little girl died of diphtheria.  The funeral on Tuesday afternoon was a large and sympathetic gathering of friends whose sympathy with the grief stricken parents and other relatives was sincere.  Rev. W.T. Blair conducted the services.

 

William Hall

Otsego Journal, August 23, 1894

William Hall, an aged resident of Unadilla Centre [Otsego Co., NY], died at the home of his brother, Isaac Hall, on Monday last.  Years ago he was a resident of this place and was known as a quiet, industrious citizen.  During his last sickness he received the best of care at the home of his brother, who did all that was possible to make his last days comfortable. The funeral occurred on Wednesday, at 10 a.m., Rev. Mr. Homan, of Wells Bridge, officiating.  He was buried by the side of his wife at South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY]..

 

Death Notices

Otsego Journal, August 23, 1894

 

ADAMS:  In Mondamin, Iowa, Sunday, Aug. 12, 1894, Mary Ada [Adams], infant daughter of Lee S. And Ada Adams, aged 4 months and 2 days.

 

HALL:  In Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], Aug. 16, 1894, Mrs. Mary A. [Hall], wife of R.M. Hall.  Interment at Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY]

 

MACDONALD:  In Gilbertsville, N.Y. [Otsego Co., NY], Sunday morning, August 19th, the Rev. David F. MacDonald, D.D., rector of Christ church, aged 57 years.

 

 

Post List February 20-26, 2017

Listing of blog postings for the week of February 20-26, 2017

Marriages

Posted February 25, 2017

Leslie L. Root - Marion Ruth Henderson (1920)

Charles E. Sands - Mayme A. Tanner (1899)

William A. Hughson - Pearl Schnickmann (1899)

Helen P. Squires - Lewis C. Richards (1899)

Minnie P. Haynes - M. DeVer Westcott (1889)

Kelley - Anable Elopement (1898)

 

Obituaries

Posted February 20, 2017

Mary E. Sheldon (North Norwich, 1899)

Kittie (Hoag) Cornell (White Store, 1886)

Lizzie Angell (White Store, 1886)

L.D. Cornell (1919)

Will Carey (Plymouth, 1940)

Posted February 21, 2017
DeWitt E. Northrop (Norwich, 1899)
Nellie Hermons (Binghamton, 1906)
Millie Bowen Cornell (White Store, 1927)
Allen W. Cope (Norwich, 1946)
William Culbertson (Gilbertsville, 1898)

Posted February 24, 2017
Samuel Newton Ruggles (Norwich, Hamilton, 1899)
Ella Mead Ruggles (Norwich, Utica, 1897)
Lucinda (Miner) Winsor (Guilford, 1897)
Mrs. Charles L. Bidwell (Smyrna, 1921)
Orello D. Alcott (Hawthorne, Sidney, 1947)

Posted February 26, 2017
James S. McNitt (Norwich, 1899)
Amy Curtis (Norwich, 1928)
Olin L. Brooks (Pharsalia, 1928)
Ella Sherman Curtis (Syracuse, Norwich, 1928)
Harriet North (Mt. Upton, 1882) 

 

 

Obituaries (February 26)

James S. McNitt

Utica Saturday Globe, January 1900

 

James Simeon McNitt

1834 - 1899

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  James S. McNitt died suddenly at his home on South Broad street on Thursday afternoon, December 28, 1899.  For a day or two prior to his death he had not been feeling well and had spent most of the time in the house, but about 11 o'clock on Thursday morning he came up town, visited several stores and made some purchases, returning home to dinner about 12:30.  In the afternoon he went out to the barn to unload some wood apparently feeling as well as usual. About 3 o'clock he appeared at the kitchen door and called to his daughter, Nettie, who was alone in the house, that he was ill. She hastened to his aid and supported him to his bedroom and summoned assistance but he failed rapidly and soon expired. Death was due to apoplexy.  His death removes another worthy representative of the sturdy yeomanry of Chenango county.  Mr. McNitt was born on a farm in the southern part of the town May 13, 1834, and was one of a numerous family of children.  Early in life he went to Pennsylvania, where, at Wellsboro, Tioga county on March 9, 1854, he married Phoebe Ann Townsend, and brought his bride to Norwich and the old McNitt homestead where they lived for two years and then removed to another farm in the same locality, which Mr. McNitt afterwards purchased.  There they lived for 35 years and reared a family of 12 children.  Upon retiring from the farm Mr. McNitt purchased a property on South Broad street and became a resident of the village.  By his industry and thrift he had earned a competence and spent his last years in retirement.  Mrs. McNitt, a most estimable lady died last July and her death was the first in the family circle of 14.  The 12 children are all living and with the exception of the youngest daughter, Nettie, who made her home with her father, are all married.  The five sons are Frank and James McNitt, of Plymouth;  Andrew, Charles and Eugene McNitt of Norwich.  The married daughters are Mrs. George Carpenter, Mrs. David Harris, Mrs. Edson Davis, Mrs. Judson King, Mrs. George McLagan and Mrs. Sperry Sargent, all of Norwich.  Of 23 grandchildren all but two are living.  Two brothers of the deceased, George McNitt of Greene and Dwight McNitt of Norwich, and one sister, Mrs. Ruth Smith, of this village, also survive. Funeral services were held on Sunday afternoon at 1 o'clock, Rev. R.N. Marlin officiating.  Burial in Mount Hope [Norwich, NY].

 

Amy Curtis

Norwich Sun, February 9, 1928

Mrs. Amy Curtis, widow of the late Charles Curtis and mother of Horatio A. Curtis, who was formerly engaged in business in this city, died at midnight last night at the home of Mrs. Leon Dunckel, 66 Henry street.  Mrs. Curtis was born in White Store [Chenango Co., NY], July 15, 1847, but had resided in Norwich for 30 years.  For the past year and a half she had made her home with Mrs. Dunckel.  She was a charter member of the local Eastern Star chapter and a member of the Broad Street M.E. church. She was held in the highest esteem by many friends who will sincerely mourn her passing.  She is survived by the son above named, who is ill and under the care of a physician at Miami, Florida. She also leaves a brother, Elijah Shippey of McGraw, and two grandchildren, Mrs. R.S. Wait of Williamsville, N.Y., and Mrs. Bryce D. Blakeley of Newport, N.Y., also four grandchildren and several nephews and nieces.  Funeral services will be held at the parlors of Lawrence & Devine at 2:30 Sunday afternoon, Rev. L.D. Palmer officiating.  The service will be in charge of Norwich chapter O.E.S.  The body will be placed in the receiving vault at Mt. Hope awaiting burial in the spring in the family plot at White Store. 

 

Olin L. Brooks

Norwich Sun, February 13, 1928

Following an illness of two and a half years, Olin L. Brooks died Sunday morning at 4:15 at the home of his parents in East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY] aged 18 years.  Funeral services will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock with interment in East Pharsalia, Rev. Ernest Vesley, pastor of the Baptist church, officiating.  Deceased had been a resident of East Pharsalia, all his life, with the exception of two years spent in Norwich, attending the local high school.  He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Brooks. Besides his parents there survive, his brother, Glenn, at home, and a half brother, Reed B. Whitfield of Norwich.  His grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Hudson brooks, also survive.

 

Ella Sherman Curtis

Norwich Sun, February 13, 1928

Norwich friends have learned with regret of the recent death of Mrs. Ella Sherman Curtis, a resident of this city several years ago.  Her demise occurred in a Syracuse hospital at the age of 84 years.  She is survived by a son, Elmer of Syracuse and a sister, Mrs. Emma Sherman White of Utica, also a granddaughter.  Mrs. White is the last of a large family of children.  She also resided in this city at one time.

 

Harriet North

Otsego Journal, May 17, 1882

Harriet North, wife of George R. North, died in Mt. Upton, N.Y. [Chenango County, NY], April 24, aged 62 years.  Sister North was born in Lodi, Otsego county, N.Y.  Twenty-six years ago she, with her husband moved into Mt. Upton, and in the same year was converted to God under the labors of the late Rev. A.G. Burlingame, of precious memory to very many in this region, because through his instrumentality they were brought to Christ.  She very soon joined the Methodist Episcopal church, and identified herself with all its interests, especially with the social meetings from which she was seldom or never absent without an excuse which will stand the judgment of the Great Day.  In prayer she was a host, and in testimony she was always fresh and abundant.  Her experience in the things of the spirit was deep and increased daily.  Eight years ago her husband died leaving her with two daughters to care for, who will greatly miss her counsel, both in temporal and spiritual things.  It will be greatly to their advantage if they heed the instruction she gave them in her life time and wait with God in the church she loved so well, and which will greatly miss her.  Her faith was just what the Christian's always is--triumphant.  N.S. Reynolds.