Marriages (March 11)

Dibble - Frink

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1899

William W. & E. Christine (Frink) Dibble

 

A beautiful home wedding occurred at the residence of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Christopher R. Frink, on East Main street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], last Monday evening, when their daughter, E. Christine Frink, was joined in marriage to William W. Dibble, of Elmira.  Only immediate relatives were present at the ceremony, which was performed at 8:30 o'clock by Rev. F.W. Maccaud, of Syracuse, formerly assistant rector of Emmanuel Church here. The home had been tastefully decorated with ferns, daisies and roses by friends of the bride. The bride is one of the most charming of Norwich's young society ladies and the groom is a popular Norwich boy who at present holds a responsible position as superintendent of the book binding department at Elmira reformatory. Together they have a large acquaintance and were the recipients of hearty congratulations from a wide circle of friends.  Many valuable and useful presents were bestowed upon the happy pair.  Light refreshments were served, after which Mr. and Mrs. Dibble left on a two weeks' wedding trip. They will return to Norwich for a brief visit before going to Elmira to reside.

 

Crandall - Blackman

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1899

At noon, Wednesday, June 14, at the residence of the bride's mother, Mrs. Simeon Blackman, in the town of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], Miss  Nettie E. Blackman and Alva A. Crandall were united in marriage by Rev. J.R. Edwards, of Norwich. The bride and bridegroom, with B.S .Blackman, brother of the bride, as best man and Miss Martha A. Barber, of Smyrna, as bridesmaid, stood on the front veranda while the ceremony was being pronounced.  A majority of the 150 guests sat under an arbor of evergreens built out from the veranda. The green arbor, the roses and flowers used in the decorations, and the refreshing showers of the early part of the day, followed by the cheering sunshine and the large company of well-wishing friends joined in making a pleasing home wedding scene.  The beautiful presents and hearty congratulations showed that Mr. and Mrs. Crandall are highly esteemed. After a short wedding excursion the happy twain will make their home in East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY].

 

Marriage Notices

Norwich Journal, January 26, 1820

 

Married--at Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th ult. by the Rev. Joshua Knight, Mr. William Avery to Miss Hannah Dixon.

 

At North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst. by Elder Gilbert, Mr. Ammon Merritt to Miss Trudy(?) Purdy.

Obituaries (March 11)

Dr. William H. Stuart

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1900

 

Dr. William Henry Stuart

1840 - 1900

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Dr. William Henry Stuart died at his home in this village on Sunday morning last, aged 59.  Because of ill health Dr. Stuart gave up his professional practice last January and for two months or more had been confined to his home.  The immediate cause of death was heart failure, following an attack of grippe, which in his weakened physical condition he was unable to overcome.  His mind was clear until almost the last and realizing the near approach of death he revealed his wishes as to his funeral and spoke words of cheer to his sorrowing household.  Dr. Stuart was born in the town of German, Chenango county, November 4, 1840.  His early education was obtained in the academy at Cincinnatus, Cortland county.  In 1858 he began the study of medicine in the office of Dr. A. D. Reed at Cincinnatus.  He afterwards entered the University of Vermont at Burlington, Vt., and after graduation entered the Albany Medical College, where he was graduated December 24, 1861.  In 1862 he began the practice of medicine in the village of Smyrna.  Responding to his country's call he volunteered in the civil war and was appointed assistant surgeon of the Twenty-Seventh New York Volunteers and after that regiment was mustered out he was appointed, in 1863, surgeon of the One Hundred and Forty-Third Regiment.  Later he had charge of the hospital of the first division, Twentieth Army Corps, in which position he remained until the close of the war. After his return from the war he located in Earlville in 1865 and practiced there until he came to Norwich in 1871.  For upwards of a quarter of a century Dr. Stuart filled a conspicuous place in the professional, political and business circles of Norwich.  His life was a very busy one.  For 28 years he occupied the corner office over the Miller drug store, ministering skillfully to relieve the sufferings of humanity, reluctantly relinquishing his chosen calling only when failing strength forced him to retire.  During his long residence in Norwich he had taken great interest in public affairs.  Christened after a staunch old Whig, William Henry  Harrison, who was chosen President of the united States on the very day that deceased was born, Dr. Stuart espoused that political faith and remained steadfast in it until the party passed out of existence.  In 1884 he was elected treasurer of Chenango county on the Republican ticket and filled the office for one term.  He was a loyal member of the G.A.R. and at the time of his death was surgeon in E.B. Smith Post, No. 83.  Dr. Stuart was married November 8, 1894, to Mrs. Julia Fort, daughter of Hon. and Mrs. Charles W. Olendorf.  His widow and two step-daughters, Lillian and Justine, survive him, and also Miss Eunice Stuart, a daughter by a former marriage.  He is survived by one brother, R.L. Stuart, of McDonough, and three sisters; Mrs. Eugene Dye, of Cortland, Mrs. Homer H. White, of Earlville, and Mrs. Leander Beebe, of McDonough. The funeral was attended at 3 o'clock on Tuesday afternoon from the family residence on East Main street, Rev. Dr. W.D. Benton officiating.  Comrades George W. Payne, George W. Brooks, George H. Baldwin, Lucius Crumb, Charles W. Lanpher and Walter C. Walworth, of Smith Post, acted as bearers and about 30 more comrades escorted the remains to their last resting place in Mount Hope.  There were many and beautiful floral offerings.  Many members of the County Medical Society were in attendance including several from other towns.

 

Noyes L. Thompson

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1900

There is a mystery about the death of Noyes L. Thompson which occurred at Georgetown near Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] last week which Coroner Harris and other officials are trying to solve.  On the Saturday previous young Thompson, who is about 25 years old, received in some manner an injury to his head which his family says was not thought to be serious, and he kept up around the house until some time on Monday.  Tuesday morning Dr. Gaus, of Oxford, was called, being told that Thompson had had a chill.  He found his patient unconscious and in convulsions, suffering from a severe fracture of the skull on the top and a little to the left and back of the head, which appeared to have been caused by some sharp instrument. The wound was several inches in length, narrow, and the outer bone of the skull was crushed through. The wound was washed and dressed as best it could be done, and Dr. Gaus returned to Oxford for his surgical tools, he not having them with him on his first visit, because of the statement made to him of the cause of the illness.  He returned in the evening accompanied by Dr Emerson and dressed the wound. Thompson grew rapidly worse, however, and died during Tuesday night.  The funeral was to have been held on Thursday afternoon but was ordered postponed by the coroner until a thorough investigation of the case could be made. Coroner Harris performed an autopsy and removed a portion of the skull. The nature, location and depth of the wound it is claimed look suspicious and throw doubt upon the story told by the family that the young man was intoxicated at the time he received the injury, and fell on the ice near the barn, striking his head upon the upturned edge of a hoe.  He refused to have a doctor called, it was said, and kept about until overcome by convulsions caused by the pressure upon the brain of the fractured bones. The matter has been brought to the attention of the district attorney and a full investigation is underway.  The Thompson family consisted of the father, two sons, Lewis, aged 27, and Noyes, and two daughters.  they are not very well known in the locality where they reside, having moved there only about six months from Preston.

 

Obituary, Delos L. Atkyns 1900

Delos L. Atkyns

Utica Saturday Globe, February 1900

 

Delos L. Atkyns

1840 - 1900

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Delos L. Atkyns, a prominent Chenango county barrister, died at his home in Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], after an illness of several weeks, last Monday evening.  Deceased was the son of William S. and Eunice Atkyns and was born in the town of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY].  His great-grandfather, Asahel [Atkyns], came from Connecticut to Chenango county, in 1810, and settled on a farm in the town of Smyrna.  A son, William, the father of the subject of this sketch, was then but five years old, and the farm upon which the family settled was covered with dense forest.  With the heroic sturdiness characteristic of those days the work of improving the property was started and sustained until the farm became one of the best and most productive in that region.  When the son, William, became of age, or soon after, he bought the farm adjoining his father's, but which lay across the town line in Pharsalia.  Here on September 30, 1840, Delos L. Atkyns was born.  He was one of four children, only one of whom, a brother, James Calos, survives and is a prominent and prosperous farmer in Pharsalia.  A deceased brother, George H., was a corporal in the war of the rebellion, and the deceased sister, Pluma, was the wife of H.T. Robbins.

 

Mr. Atkyns assisted his parents upon the farm until after he had attained his majority, acquiring the limited education to be obtained in the district schools of the town.  This period of his life gave little promise of the brilliant future that was in store for him.  But he was ambitious and at the age of 22 took up the study of law with Rexford & Kingsley, of Norwich, one of the then leading law firms of the county.  He was admitted to practice in the Supreme Court in May, 1865, and in October of the same year commenced the practice of his profession at Sherburne.  His first half dozen law books he paid for by chopping wood at 30 cents a cord, but in time built up a large library of over 3,000 volumes and won a wide clientele.  He assisted in the prosecution of many murder cases in Chenango county, and except for one acquittal was always successful in securing conviction in the first or second degree.  He had also assisted in capital cases in other counties, and enjoyed a large practice.  While never active in politics he was always a Republican and refused several times to be a candidate for district attorney, giving as a reason for refusal the exacting duties and small compensation which the office entailed.

 

In 1876, Mr. Atkyns married Mrs. Mary C. Sholes, of La Salle, Ind., who, with two sons, Duane L. and Paul W., survives him.  He had been for many years a member of the Board of Education of Sherburne, and had been secretary and president of the body.  He had had an unusual number of bright and promising students in his office, among whom were Robert Kutschback, of New York city;  M. Van Buren, of Denver, Colo.; Delos D. Jaynes, of Detroit, Mich.; ex-District Attorney George P. Pudney, of Smyrna, and the late Ernest C. Dart, of Earlville, N.Y.

 

The funeral services were held at the Congregational Church, of which he was an attendant, on Wednesday.  The church was crowded as it has seldom been.  The exercises were conducted by the pastor, Rev. William A. Trow.  Judge John E. Smith made on behalf of the bar an eloquent and appropriate address, and Rev. Samuel Miller, a former pastor, concluded the speaking in words strongly commendatory of the character and abilities of the deceased. A very able and discriminating letter from Judge Albert F. Gladding, a schoolmate of Mr. Atkyns, was read. The floral offerings were numerous and of the choicest flowers.

 

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, February 24, 1900

 

Of his life and works the Sherburne News of today, Saturday, says:  At the hour of going to press on Friday last, we were informed that Mr. Atkyns was a little better, and it was thought that he might recover from his long and severe illness, but a turn for the worse occurred that day, and from that time to the end, he gradually failed, and on Monday afternoon, at about two o'clock, he breathed his last.  It will be remembered that Mr. Atkyns fell in his office on Saturday evening, December 23, 1899, while lighting the gas and received an injury to his left side.  He was taken to his home and from that time was never on the street again.  The injury, no doubt, was more severe than was at first thought, and he never fully rallied.  He was not a strong man and it did not take much in later years to lay him by.

 

Delos L. Atkyns, the subject of this sketch, was born in the town of Pharsalia, this county, September 30, 1840, and was a son of William S. and Eunice Babcock Atkyns, and a grandson of Asahel Atkyns.  His great grandfather, Joseph Atkyns, served in the Revolutionary war, and came from Farmington, Conn., to this county about 1810, and settled in the western part of the county.  Delos L. Atkyns assisted his parents on the farm, and only had the advantages of a district school education.  He was a studious boy and secured a pretty good foundation for the brilliant career before him, and when quite young entered the law office of Rexford & Kingsley at Norwich, and after close application to the study of law he was admitted to the bar as an attorney and counselor of the supreme court in 1864.  In October of that year he came to Sherburne where he began the practice of his profession and where he has ever since resided.  As years rolled by he became one of the best lawyers in this part of the country, and his clientage was very large and his able counsel was sought in some of the most prominent cases in the state.  He had one of the best law libraries in the county, there being over 3000 volumes.  His first half dozen law books were paid for by chopping wood at thirty cents a cord.  He had a number of students study under him and follow his instructions, some of whom are now able lawyers....

 

In politics Mr. Atkyns was a staunch Republican but never took a very active part in politics.  He had a number of times refused the nomination of district attorney of this county, because of the great duties and the small compensation.  He always took great interest in the welfare of this, his adopted town, and particularly our school, and for more than twenty years had been a member of the board of education and since 1895 had been president of the board.  he was a good friend to the poor and always gave liberally to needed charity.  In 1876 Mr. Atkyns was untied in marriage with Mrs. Mary C. Sholes, of LaSalle, Ill. and two children blessed this union, namely:  Duane L., born September 25, 1877, a graduate of Sherburne High School, and for the past year a student in his father's office, and Paul W., born August 16, 1880, a student in the Sherburne High school.  Mr. Atkyns was a most devoted husband and father and did everything to make those nearest and dearest to him happy and contented.  He will be missed, not only by his family but by all our towns people.  He always had a pleasant greeting for all, rich and poor alike.  The management of The News had lost one of his best friends. 

 

Delos L. Atkyns lived a good life.  His transition to a higher estate was calm and peaceful.

"The winds breathe low, the withering leaf

Scarce whispers from the tree,

So gently flows the parting breath

When good men cease to be."

 

Judge Gladding's Letter

Rev. William A. Trow:  My Dear Sir:  Your letter announcing the death of Mr. Atkyns has just reached me.  The sad intelligence was not wholly unexpected by reason of the latest discouraging news of his condition  My sorrow is augmented by an illness which will prevent me from attending his funeral tomorrow, and deprive me of the opportunity you so kindly offer, to express my appreciation of the life which has so sadly gone out from among us. I avail myself of the characteristics of my manly friend, and my sympathy with his bereaved family and friends which I would have hoped to have spoken more fully and fairly, could I have complied with your suggestion.

 

I was born in the same town with my dead friend, and knew of his early struggles, and can look back to them with the sympathy born of common adversity.  In his boyhood he fixed his eyes upon the legal profession and nourished an ambition to become a lawyer, until it became fixed and unalterable. To promote this [obsession, though] small his pay, or shadowy the hope of reward, his attention could not be distracted nor his efforts relaxed by tempting retainers in other cases promising larger fees or more profitable business. 

 

I know of no lawyer who gauged the amount of attention or work which he would give to a case, so absolutely without regard to the amount involved or the compensation expected.  If the case excited his sympathy, or love of justice, or if it contained interesting legal questions, or theretofore unsolved legal problems, it received his undivided attention, his most profound thought, and he would exhaust the midnight oil and his own vitality to his researches for argument and authority to uphold his cause.  With him, the practice of the law was not a business, but a learned profession.

 

His courtesy and desire to kindly accommodate his adversary in all ways not harmful to his client's interests, were unfailing, and, in my opinion, have never been exceeded by any man who has practiced at the bar of this county.  He had the respect and regard of all who knew him at the bar.  I have never heard one of its members speak harshly or unkindly of him.  They were all his friends.  He had not an enemy among them. 

 

He was honest with the judges, true to his clients, sincere with his friends, loyal to his party and his country.  He has left his mark upon the jurisprudence of our county and state, and will long be remembered by the legal fraternity and his contemporaries, while those who are to come after and soon take our places, will find in the legal reports and literature of our state, evidences of his strong grasp of current questions passed upon by the courts.

 

He enjoyed the intimacy and social acquaintance with our county's greatest jurist whose recent and early death was and is so greatly lamented.  And I know that he had the respect and confidence of Judge Follett, who appreciated his legal attainments and honorable practice.

 

Beyond his relation to our profession, it is not my purpose at this time to write to any extent, but I may remark in passing, what everyone knows, that he was a political partisan, but not a political bigot.  He respected the opinions of others though they differed from his own, and he conceded to a political or legal opponent the same honesty of purpose and sincerity of expression which he demanded for himself.

 

In his own town he was a good citizen, a law abiding citizen, mindful of the rights and privileges of others, cautious to condemn, charitable of the short comings of his fellow creatures, while his sympathy with suffering and those in trouble, and manifest desire to alleviate physical or mental pain, often exhibited to us a kindly and tender side of his character, full of much to commend, and drawing about him with closer ties his warm and numerous friends.

 

For such a life the veriest strangers could but wish a wider span.  He is cut off in the midst of his usefulness, at the zenith of his powers.  His friends and neighbors deeply deplore his loss.  His untimely death wrenches from his family a true and tender husband, a kind and indulgent parent, deprives the legal profession of one of its ablest and most useful members, and takes from out this community an honored and upright citizen.

 

His host of sorrowing friends extend profound sympathy to his bereaved and stricken family, and hope that they may have the divine assurance that what we call death only opens to the freed spirit the highway to immortal life.  With this brief tribute to the dead, I subscribe myself, his life long friend.--Albert F. Gladding, February 20, 1900

____________________________________

 

Mary Charlotte (Lawson) Sholes Atkyns

Utica Observer - Dispatch, November 15, 1933

Sherburne [Chenango Co., NYT]:  Funeral services for Mrs. Delos Atkyns, 76, mother of Duane L. Atkyns, Sherburne attorney, were held at her home in South Main Street Thursday afternoon with burial in West Hill Cemetery.  The Rev. C.W. Hilliker, minister of the Congregational Church officiated.  Mrs. Atkyns died after a brief illness Tuesday evening. She was born in LaSalle, Ill. Sept. 14, 1847.  After the death of her parents when she was in her youth, Mary Charlotte Lawson went to reside at the Hotel Hardy with the owners of the leading hotel in LaSalle.  For a time after her arrival in Chenango County, she was a tailoress.  After the death of her husband, George Sholes of Earlville, she again resumed her trade.  Later she was married to Delos L. Atkyns.  She is survived by Attorney Atkyns, and a daughter, Mrs. Carrie L. French of Sherburne, also by two grandchildren, Paul W. Atkyns, son of the late Paul Atkyns...[rest missing].

Obituaries (March 9)

Mysterious Disappearance of Mrs. Timothy G. Donovan

 

 

Mrs. George H. Mahan of Norwich

Whose Psychic Power located the Dead Body of Mrs. Donovan

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1900

Rome Citizen, February 6, 1900

Clinton [Oneida Co., NY]:  The family of Mrs. T.G. Donovan who so mysteriously disappeared Tuesday evening, from her home on College street, has given up hopes of finding her alive.  Mr. Donovan has found the following note pinned on a pillow in her bed room:  "Forgive me, Tim," signed "Mary."  It is the general opinion that Mrs. Donovan either strayed away from her home and perished in the cold from exposure, or else that she ended her life in the Oriskany creek. The sad affair has cast a gloom over the whole community.  Mrs. Donovan was well known and greatly respected by all.  It is a great blow to Mr. Donovan and the children, and they feel it keenly.

 

Dead Body Found

Chenango Semi Weekly Telegraph, April 11, 1900

A special from Clinton, N.Y. to the Union Observer of Monday evening said:  The remains of Mrs. Timothy G. Donovan, who so mysteriously disappeared from her home on College street ten weeks ago, were found yesterday about a mile west of the village in the wood lot of Lyman S. Harding.  Donald Risley, a son of A.D. Risley and another lad were passing through the woods, when they made the ghastly discovery of the remains lying at the foot of a large tree that stood by itself some distance from any others on the outskirts of the woods.  From appearances she had wandered here the night of her disappearance, and having removed nearly al her clothing made a bed of a portion of it, and having lain down, drew the rest over her as a protection from the cold.  She had also removed her false teeth and glasses and placed them beside her. It was a very cold night, and she probably never awakened from the sleep or stupor which the extreme cold must have very soon produced.  The position in which she was found indicated that she had not moved after lying down.

 

It will be remembered that Mrs. Donovan stole away from home early in the evening while laboring under a mild form of insanity, and although the most diligent and thorough search was made that night and for days and weeks afterwards, no trace of her could be found.  Harding's woods had been gone over time and again, but it was the denser part of the wood that was searched, under the supposition that if she had gone up there she would seek to hide where the wood was thick.  For several weeks workmen have been engaged in chopping wood near where she lay, and lately sugar making has been in progress, but as the particular tree at the foot of which she had sought shelter was out of the way somewhat, her remains had remained undiscovered.

 

Today's, Tuesday, Morning Sun, says:  Mrs. George H. Mahan of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] has in a quiet sort of way in her own family circle practiced clairvoyance, and Clinton relatives who had heard of these powers, asked Mrs. Mahan's aid about three weeks ago in trying to solve the mystery of Mrs. Donovan's whereabouts.  Mrs. Mahan held a sitting and described every minute detail, giving a lucid description of the Donovan house and a locality she had never seen, and explaining where the body lay and the route the unfortunate woman took in reaching the woods.  This description was sent to Mr. Donovan, but on account of the deep snow the search was deferred and it had been planned to make an investigation yesterday.  Mr. Mahan, the husband of the "medium" received a message from Clinton Monday that the body had been found precisely as described in the former communication to Mr. Donovan.  He left on the afternoon train for Clinton  to verify the report, being somewhat anxious to see for himself whether Mrs. Mahan's first attempt at anything of the kind had been successful.

 

Harriet A. Sholes

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, April 11, 1900

Mrs. Harriet A. Sholes died at her home in Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], Thursday, April 5, 1900, aged 63 years.  The funeral was held Sunday.  The deceased was the mother of Supervisor George L. Sholes of Sherburne.  She had been in fairly good health for some time, although had not been able to be about any since she received a fracture to a leg by failing on the sidewalk in this village some four months ago.  She was sitting by the window playing with her little grandson when she suddenly complained of a severe pain about the heart and in the stomach and before medical aid reached her she was dead.

 

Merlin J. Ford

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, April 11, 1900

The death of Merlin J. Ford occurred at Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], April 3, 1900.  His demise had been expected for several days, he having been slowly failing since taking to his bed nearly three months since.  His death was caused by a complication of troubles that for several years past have gradually broken down his health.  Mr. Ford was one of our oldest and best known citizens, having been born in this village, November 30, 1825.  He was the only son of Russell Ford, and had one sister, Mrs. Caroline Smith, now residing in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  He was married March 15, 1848 in the town of Unadilla to Miss Cynthia Peck, who survives him.  Two children were born to them, both of whom are living, Truman R. Ford of this place, and Frederick Ford of Jamestown, N.Y.  During his active lifetime deceased served the town and government in an official capacity for many years.  He was postmaster of the place under the administrations of Lincoln and Grant, and he also served several terms as justice of the peace, about the time of the civil war, when the enlistment of soldiers and the bounties paid by the towns made that office of considerable responsibility and importance.  For many years he was identified with the Republican party, in the success of which he took an active interest.  Upon all genealogical and questions of local history, he was probably better informed than any of our inhabitants now living. During his lifetime he compiled a very complete genealogy of the Ford and Hyer families, extending back a hundred and0dtwenty-four years.--Otsego Journal.

Obituaries (March 8)

Huse Karr

Utica Saturday Globe, February 1900

 

Huse Karr

1824 - 1900

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Huse Karr, a life long and respected resident of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], died at his home in that village last Tuesday night after an illness of about a fortnight.  Mr. Karr had been a frequent visitor to Norwich and visited his daughter, Mrs. Frank H. Dimmick, here over Sunday three weeks ago.  A few days later he suffered a stroke of paralysis and sank gradually until death came to his relief.  Mr. Karr was born in the town of Smyrna in 1824, his mother being a member of the Quaker sect.  He was carefully reared and educated and became an accomplished musician.  For years he followed the occupation of music teacher but latterly had engaged in selling pianos, organs, and other musical instruments.  He was the father of four daughters, one of whom, Ella, died in March 1893. The mother and wife followed her to the grave a few weeks later in April 1893.  The surviving daughters are Mrs. Frank H. Dimmick, of Norwich, Mrs. L.B. Southworth, of Earlville, and Mrs. W.W. Lyon, of Smyrna.  Mr. Karr was knighted in Norwich Commandery May 6, 1871.  His funeral which took place from his late residence in Smyrna this afternoon at 1 o'clock, was conducted by Sherburne Lodge, F.&A.M., a large delegation from the Norwich Commandery, K.T., acting as escort.  [Sherburne West Hill Cemetery]

 

Edson E. Davis

South New Berlin Bee, January 6, 1923

At his home in Holmesville [Chenango Co., NY], Friday morning, December 29, 1922, Edson Eliot Davis passed away at the age of 91 years.  Mr. Davis was the youngest of seven children of Arthur Davis and Sabra Sheldon, his wife, and was born December 10, 1831, on what is now known as the McNitt farm, three miles east of Norwich, his whole life being lived practically in the town in which he died.  His parents emigrated from Rhode Island over one hundred years ago and were among the pioneer residents of the county; his ancestry on both sides was from Revolutionary fathers and he inherited from them his honest sturdy life and died absolutely fearless of the Great Beyond.  Although advanced in years, he kept an interest in the affairs of the day and in the younger generation until his sickness which was of short duration.  He is survived by three children; Mrs. Lewis N. Gage, Mrs. Henry C. York and Arvin Davis who resided with his father and tenderly cared for him during his illness. There also survive eight grandchildren and four great grandchildren.  His wife died in March, 1912.  The funeral was attended from the house Monday, January 1st, at 1 o'clock, Rev. Mr. Penney of Mt. Upton, having charge of the services.  Burial was in the family plot at White Store [Chenango Co., NY].

Eugene Doolittle

Otsego Journal, February 1, 1917

No similar event could come with more startling suddenness than did the death of Eugene Doolittle, which occurred shortly before midnight of Monday night last.  Mr. Doolittle retired to rest as usual, but awoke at the time mentioned, suffering severe pain in the region of his heart.  He succeeded in getting up and seating himself in a chair in the kitchen but almost immediately expired.  Mrs. Doolittle was alone with him at the time and her own state of health made the circumstances of the case just so much more sad and regrettable.  The difficulty she experienced in securing assistance at that time of night by telephone, was considerable and necessarily some time elapsed before help arrived.  Dr. Helmer was summoned, but of course, could render no professional aid.  We understand that deceased had suffered previously from cardiac trouble but believe he had been usually well up to the time of the fatal seizure.  Mr. Doolittle was one of the good citizens of the valley, he was a quiet and unassuming man by nature.  As a neighbor all that the word implies, and in his family unexceptional as husband and father.  He is survived by his wife and one son, William, of Auburn.  One son, Nelson, died a few years ago at the family home.  He also leaves one brother, Lewis, who resides East. The funeral will be held from the house on Thursday at 1:30 p.m.

Nelson Eugene Doolittle

Otsego Journal,  April 27, 1905

Nelson, youngest son of Eugene Doolittle, of Latham's Corners [Chenango Co., NY], died on Friday evening, April 21st, at seven o'clock.  He suffered from tuberculosis which he contracted about six months ago, and his death for several days had been hourly expected.  He was a young man of exemplary life and studious habits and no better evidence of the possession of qualities calculated to win and retain the respect of others could be adduced than the exceptionally large attendance at his funeral which occurred on Monday at 1:30 p.m.  He was a graduate of our Union School and up to the beginning of his illness had been for a year or more a student of the Sidney High School, where he had hoped to graduate at the coming commencement.  About twenty of his fellow students attended his funeral, including members of the graduating class who acted as bearers.  Professor James M. Glass, Principal of the Sidney school was also present.  Rev. Clark Callender of Sidney officiated and spoke briefly but pertinently of the unexceptionable character of the deceased and of his pleasant social and personal relations with himself and others during his residence at Sidney.  Mr. Callender was followed by Prof. Glass in a feeling and eulogistic tribute to the scholarly habits and praiseworthy ambition of Nelson as a student and of the feeling of friendship and esteem with which he had inspired both the faculty and members of the Sidney High School by the uniformly courteous and considerate nature of his association with them.  A quartette of young lady students rendered "Nearer My God to Thee" as the second hymn of the service. The floral offerings of friends and relatives were many and beautiful.  Deceased is survived by one brother William Doolittle, of Sidney Center.  Other relatives from a distance were present as follows:  Lewis Doolittle and son, Belleville, N.J., Mrs. Fields Place, Mrs. Birdsall, Mrs. Nelson Place, Miss Eggleston, Newton and Leon Place, Miss Hattie Place, Sidney.  Dr. John Place and daughter and two sons, Edward and Howard Place.  Mrs. Payne, Binghamton, Mrs. Rounds, New Berlin, Smith Doolittle, Afton.  Interment was in the family plot in Evergreen Cemetery, White Store [Chenango Co., NY].  Mr. and Mrs. Doolittle wish to give expression to the deep sense of gratitude which they feel for so many kindly assurances of sympathy and acts of kindness during the sickness of their son and their late bereavement.

Obituaries (March 7)

Hudson R. Parker

Utica Saturday Globe, February 1900

 

Hudson R. Parker

1835 - 1900

Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY]: Hudson R. Parker died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Albert E. Baxter, Saturday evening. He was born in the town of Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], June 12, 1835, and came to Sherburne in 1864 or 1865. He was a photographer and exceled in field work. Several years ago, finding that his health suffered, he rented his gallery and engaged in school teaching, in which he was very useful. He has been a piano tuner for several years.  Mr. Parker was a public-spirited man, and for more than 30 years a member of Torrent Fire Company.  He was a Republican. He is survived by his daughter, Mrs. Mary L. Baxter. The funeral was held Tuesday afternoon.

 

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, February 24, 1900

PARKER: In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], February 17, 190. Hudson R. Parker of Sherburne, aged 64 years.

 

John Mudge

Chenango Telegraph, February 26, 1898

Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY]: John Mudge whose illness was mentioned in our last, died on Monday morning, after an illness of only five days, and his funeral was largely attended on Thursday p.m. from his home here, Rev. William Blair officiating. For nearly 70 years he, with his brother, Rensselear resided on a farm 1-1/2 miles below the village, and in 1889 moved to a place next the M.E. church. He was married in 1891 to Miss Mary Barker, who survives him. Mr. Mudge by strict economy, industry and honesty, accumulated a large property. No nearer relatives than nephews survive him except his brother and wife.  A nephew of Rock Island, Il., was in attendance at the funeral.

 

Erasmus Smith

Chenango Union, July 19, 1883

Erasmus Smith was born in the town of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], three miles east of the village, October 13th, 1808, and died at his home, one mile west of his birth place, July 9th, 1883. He was married December 26th, 1830, to Sally N. Sherman, who was the mother of five children, three of whom are living. She was a devoted wife, and died May 12th, 1879. Mr. Smith was a superior mechanic and inventor. The early and middle part of his life was principally devoted to modeling and building mills, often using a water wheel of his own device. Since then his mind has been devoted to more comprehensive work, and, a few years ago, he secured the patent of a dredging and excavating machine, suitable for clearing and widening navigable rivers.  In 1881 he was one of the competitors for the "Improved Cattle Car" award, given by the American Humane Association." His religious belief was that of a Spiritualist.  He was one of the first investigators in this vicinity, and died a firm advocate of the faith.  He was always generous, and his life has been characterized by honesty and purity of purpose. His example will go down to posterity as well worthy of emulation.

 

Anna Douglass

Chenango Union, July 19, 1883

A sad drowning accident occurred in Binghamton [Broome County, NY] on Wednesday evening of last week. Miss Anna Douglass, aged about fourteen years, was out in a boat, taking a pleasure sail with a young man named Albert Manier. They had been out upon the river for some time, when the young lady proposed to take the oars, and in changing positions the boat was capsized and both were thrown into the water. Their cries brought assistance, but too late to save miss Douglas, who, notwithstanding the exertions of her companion to save her, sank, and her body was not recovered until midnight. Young Manier was rescued, clinging to the boat, but much exhausted. The unfortunate young lady was much loved and respected by all.

 

Oliver Dimmick

Chenango Union, July 19, 1883

Between ten and eleven o'clock on Saturday morning last, Oliver Dimmick, one of our old and respected citizens, died suddenly at his residence on Fair street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], in the seventy-third year of his age. For some weeks previous Mr. Dimmick had suffered from a severe attack of erysipelas, but had so far recovered as to be about the streets. On Saturday morning he appeared unusually well and cheerful, and a few moments before his death he was looking at the flowers in his garden, and conversing pleasantly with his step daughter, Mrs. George Morse. She at length suggested to him that it would be better for him to go into the house, as it was very warm, to which he nodded assent, and she turned and entered the house, thinking he would follow. Within five minutes from that time he was found lying upon the ground, unconscious and soon breathed his last. Physicians were called, but life was extinct. They pronounced the cause of his death to be apoplexy. Deceased was born in the town of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], in 1811, and has resided in Norwich some forty years.  he was much esteemed in the community, and for many years was an active member of the Methodist church. A widow, with one daughter by a former wife, Mrs. H.I. Fox, and a step daughter, Mrs. George Morse, are left to mourn his loss. Funeral services were held at his late residence on Monday afternoon, at which there was a large attendance of relatives and friends. The services were conducted by Presiding Elder Thorp, Rev. William Bixby, formerly Presiding Elder, and an old friend of deceased, Revs. Hayes and Delano. The remains were buried in the family lot at south Plymouth.

 

Obituaries (March 6)

Gilbert Bowers

Utica Saturday Globe, January 1900

 

Gilbert Bowers

1818 - 1900

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Gilbert Bowers died suddenly at the home of his son, Henry G. Bowers, in the town of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], January 8, 1900.  For several years he had been in poor health and for a few years had been nearly blind from a cataract on the eye, which owning to feeble health, could not be removed.  On January 1 last he suffered a stroke of paralysis which rendered him helpless.  Mr. Bowers was born in the town of Norwich in a house east of the Chenango river and near the Merton Reese farm, November 21, 1818.  The house still stands.  He was one of a large family of children of Ephriam and Esther Crandall Bowers.  His education was acquired in the district schools and he took up the occupation of farming.  He was a man of marked character, strong in his individuality and his beliefs.  In politics he was a Democrat and never failed to exercise the right of franchise.  He was a consistent Christian and a member of the Methodist church.  His memory was clear and ran back to the time when the century was young and Norwich was only an isolated hamlet.  He loved to talk of those days, but appreciated and admired the progress and improvements of the present.  He was married October 18, 1840, to Miss Harriet Pendell, who survives him.  He also leaves five children, Wallace W., of White Sulpher Springs; Harriet L., wife of H.G. Littlefair, of Holmesville; Frank C. Bowers, of North Norwich; Henry G. Bowers, of New Berlin, and Lewis H. Bowers, of Norwich,. Two brothers, Ephraim, of Norwich, and William, of Chenango Lake, and two sisters, Mrs. Clara Westcott of Preston, and Mrs. Polly Birch, of Munsonville, also survive.  There are 17 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren living.  Funeral services were held January 18, Rev. Robert Martin officiating. Burial was made at Plasterville.

 

Harriet H. (Pendell) Bowers

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph,  October 8, 1903

The funeral of Mrs. Harriet H. Bowers was largely attended from the home of her son, L.H. Bowers, at the Empire house, Wednesday afternoon, Rev. Samuel Moore officiating.  Burial was made in the Plasterville cemetery. The floral offerings were beautiful and profuse, and the music was rendered by a quartette composed of Mrs. Charles Brown and two sons, Dudley and Frank, and Mrs. Roscoe Johnson.  Among the many in attendance from out of town, aside form all of the children, were Mrs. Calvin Bowers, Clayton Baker, John Johnson, wife and son of DeRuyter; Charles Bowers of Sherburne.  Mrs. Bowers was a much beloved and widely known resident of Chenango county in which nearly all her long life was spent, and died at the home of her son, Lewis H. Bowers, proprietor of the Empire house on East Main street, Monday September 28, 1903, aged 79 years.  She was born in Wayne county, December 5, 1824, and was the oldest of the nine children of James T. and Agnes Pendell, four of whom survive; Mrs. Rosanna Case of White Store, Mrs. Lucy Potter of this village, M.R. Pendell of Cleburne, Texas, and Mrs. Wayne Belden of South New Berlin.  Her father was a first class carpenter and was employed in building the docks on the old Chenango canal, and on other public works.  When a young girl Mrs. Bowers came with her parents to Chenango county and resided in the town of Plymouth until she was 12 years of age, when they moved to Plasterville.  October 18, 1840 she was married to Gilbert Bowers, whose death occurred suddenly January 8, 1900.  Her mother died December 15, 1872 and her father, November 16, 1892.  Mr. and Mrs. Bowers resided in Plasterville where Mr. Bowers was employed for thirty years in grinding plaster at the large mill, until 20 years ago, when they went to King Settlement.  Here they purchased and lived on the Clinton place for five years and the Ryan place for nine years, having sold their former one.  At the Ryan place they conducted a very successful grocery business in the front of their residence, Mrs. Bowers having most of the management, until Mr. Bower's failing health compelled them to give up the business.  About five years ago they broke up housekeeping and lived among their children.  About a year ago she came to Norwich and made her home with her son, Lewis, at the Empire house.  Last May she visited her brother and sisters and children, until failing health caused her to return to Norwich and the following Sunday she was stricken with illness which resulted in her death, after two weeks' duration.  Mrs. Bowers was a woman dear to all who knew her, of a gentle, loving and cheerful disposition, which marked her entire life and was beautifully brought out in her last illness.  She retained all of her senses to a remarkable degree for one of her age, and was an intelligent, well read woman.  Deceased is survived by five children, Wallace W. Bowers of DeRuyter, Mrs. Horatio Littlefair of Holmesville, Frank C. Bowers of North Norwich, Henry G. Bowers of New Berlin, and Lewis H. Bowers of this village, 17 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

 

William H. Curtiss

Chenango Union, December 23, 1875

CURTISS:  At the residence of his father, Henry Curtiss, in North Greece, Monroe Co., Dec. 17th, Mr. William H. Curtiss, aged 22 years.

 

The announcement of the death of this young man will cause a feeling of sadness in the hearts of many in this community.  His earlier years were passed at White Store, in this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY]; and upon arriving at the proper age, he entered the office of the Chenango Telegraph, as an apprentice, where he faithfully served his time, and afterwards worked as a journeyman.  On the day before Christmas, one year ago, he left for the home of his parents--who had recently removed to Monroe County--for the purpose of spending the holidays, with the intention of returning to his work again.  Immediately after reaching home he was attacked by fever, which prostrated him for months; then an abscess in his hip developed itself, and he was an invalid until his death, which was probably hastened by the opening of the abscess, some three weeks since.  Young Curtiss was universally esteemed for his many noble qualities of head and heart, and among his youthful associates he was a general favorite.  His remains, accompanied by his stricken parents, arrived in this village on the Tuesday morning D.L.&W. train; and Alert Hose Company, of which deceased was an honored member, turned out and met the remains of their late comrade at the depot, and escorted the funeral procession to the outskirts of the village, towards White Store, where all that was left of poor Will was deposited in the family burial ground, on Tuesdays afternoon.  Peace to his ashes!

Blog Postings, February 27 - March 5, 2017)

Listing of blog postings for the week of February 27-March 5, 2017

Marriages

Posted March 1, 2017

Linn Horatio Babcock - Marion Olive Whitmore (1899)  photo

Obituaries

Posted February 27, 2017

Hiram Hale (Norwich, 1900)  photo

Charles Curtis (1882)

Joanna Curtis (1894)

William Hall (Unadilla Centre, 1894)

Death notices - 1894

     Mary Ada Adams (Mondamin IA)

     Mrs. Mary A. Hall (Unadilla)

     Rev. David F. MacDonald (Gilbertsville)

Posted March 2, 2017
Michael M. Foy (Norwich, 1913)   photo
Catharine Foy (Norwich, 1915)
James E. Macksey (Norwich, 1899)
Mary A. Bockee Smith (Norwich, 1899)
Reuben C. Klock (Canajoharie, 1899)

Posted March 3, 2017
Syrus Buell Merrihew (Sherburne, 1900)  photo
Horatio A. Curtis (White Store, 1939)
Fremont E. Benedict (New Berlin, 1939)
Joanna Curtis (White Store, 1894)
George C. Odell (Guilford, 1894)

Posted March 4, 2017
Marvin A. Dimmick (South Plymouth, 1900)  photo
Henry O. Southworth (Bridgewater, New Berlin, 1879)
Sullivan Reynolds (Butternuts, Guilford, 1883)
Death Notices - 1879
     Ebenezer French (Norwich)
     Robert Hetrick (Smithville)
     Lewis Winston (Troy)
     Daisy Belle Willcox (Oxford)
     Katie Nowlan (Oxford)
     Maria Robbins (Oxford)
     Willie Banks (Bainbridge)
     Sarah A. Dimmick (South Plymouth)

Posted March 5, 2017
Samuel S.B. Miller (Norwich, 1900)  Photo
Theresa A. (Dorsey) Miller (Norwich, 1947)
Martha A. Benedict (Plasterville, Norwich, 1900)
Mary A. Curtis (White Store, 1889)
Charles Emmett Crippen (Worcester, 1907)

Miscellaneous

Posted March 3, 2017

Chenango & Unadilla Valleys, Fifty Years Ago [in 1872], by S.S. Randall, Columbus

Posted March 4, 2017
Reunion of the 114th, 1899

Posted March 5, 2017
Chenango & Unadilla Valleys, Fifty Years Ago [1872], by S.S. Randall, Guilford

 



Chenango & Unadilla Valleys

The Chenango and Unadilla Valleys Fifty Years Ago

by Samuel Sidwell Randall

Chenango Telegraph, May 15, 1872

 

Guilford

 

Guilford was formed from Oxford in 1813, under the name of Eastern, and originally constituted a part of the township of "Fayette."  The village situated in the valley of Guilford Pond Creek, contains three churches, a hotel, a foundry and machine shop, several stores, mills and manufactories and about 300 inhabitants.  Guilford Centre contains two churches and some twenty dwelling houses;  East Guilford, a church, a hotel, a mill, and about 100 inhabitants;  Mount Upton, on the west bank of the Unadilla, two churches, a hotel, several mills, manufactories, stores and shops, and about 250 inhabitants, and Rockdale, also on the Unadilla, a church, hotel, several mills, a store and about 100 inhabitants.  Rockwell's Mills a short distance north of Mount Upton, contains a church, a saw mill, and an extensive woolen factory owned by Chester W. Rockwell.

 

The first settlement of the town, according to Child's Dictionary, was made by Ezekiel Wheeler, in 1787, a little north of the present village of Mount Upton on the farm since occupied by his grandson Silas Wheeler [in 1872].  In 1780, Joshua Mersereau, and his brother, from France, settled at the mouth of Guilford Creek, and erected the first mill in the town; in 1790, James Phelps Sullivan Reynolds and a Mr. Button settled near the present Rockdale; in 1791, Robert McL--d, Isaac Fuller, from Guilford, Conn., and Lemuel Cornell; in 1792, Daniel Savage, John Nash and Nelson Robbins, from Ballston Spa, near the Four Corners; in 1793, Daniel Johnson, John Secor, Gurdon and Wyatt Chamberlin, at Mount Upton and William and Nathaniel Hyer in the east part of the town.  Among the other early settlers, were John Dibble, who kept a hotel in 1798, where the Guilford Hotel now stands [in 1872], and died in 1801, Samuel Mills in 1798, Ira Hays in 1795, and Benjamin Yale in 1799.  The latter died only a few years since in the 103d year of his age.  Daniel Cornell, died in 1871 was also one of the oldest settlers, and Mrs. A. Wood, daughter of Daniel Savage, another David Hays, son of Ira Hays, born in 1798, is probably the oldest person in the town born there.  Major Richmond and his sons Joseph and Seth, Asa Haven, Daniel T. Dickinson, father of the later Senator, Caleb Burdick, Paris Winsor, Samuel A Smith, Samuel Ives, and Joel and William Hendrick, came into the town early in the present century [1800s].  In 1805, the Academy at Guilford Centre was built, and placed under the charge of Daniel Mills, as Principal, and in 1812, the Congregational Church in the same place organized with twelve members under the pastoral charge of Rev. John L. Jones.

 

The first child born in town, according to the same authority, was Prudence Fuller, in April 1791; the first marriage that of Mr. Powell to the widow of Isaac Fuller, in 1793; and the first death that of Isaac Fuller, a few months previous.  The first inn was kept by Ezekiel Wheeler, in 1796 and the first store by Sullivan Reynolds, in 1790.  He also erected the first mill on the Unadilla, in the same year.  The first school was taught by Nathan Bennett in 1794.  The first church, was the Baptist, formed by Elder Orange Spencer, in 1803.  The first town meeting was held at the house of Jehiel Parsons.

Obituaries (March 5)

Samuel S.B. Miller

Utica Saturday Globe, January 1900

 

Samuel S.B. Miller

1852 - 1900

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Samuel S.B. Miller died at his home on Elm street last Monday afternoon at the age of 47.  He had been ill about ten days with peritonitis.  He was one of the surviving members of the original Alert Hose Company and the first to "drop out" of the permanent organization of the old Alerts recently effected.  He had been an active fireman the greater share of his life, first as an Alert, later as a member of the Rough and Ready Hose and later still as a member of the Maydole Hose Company.  His zeal as a fireman and his genial nature won many friends.  His faithfulness in the performance of his duties is shown by the fact that for 30 years he continued in one employ.  In 1870, at the age of 17, he began working in the Greenman bakery and remained until his last illness. his demise in the prime of life is deeply regretted by his employers and the many friends who have known him during his lifelong residence here.  Mr. Miller was born in Norwich December 29, 1852, and was the only son of Richard H. and Lucy Miller.  On November 18, 1885, he married Miss Theresa A. Dorcy, who with one daughter, survives him.  Two sisters also survive, Mrs. Elizabeth Hughes, of Pharsalia, and Mrs. Mary A. Cottrell, of Norwich.  Funeral services were held at his late home, 34 Elm street, Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock.  Many of the members of Alert Hose Company and of the Old Alerts were in attendance. Rev. Dr. Benton officiated. Burial in Mount Hope [Norwich, NY].

 

Theresa A. (Dorsey) Miller

Chenango Union, July 17, 1947

Following a long illness, Mrs. Theresa A. Miller, 80, died late Friday night in Chenango Memorial Hospital.  The widow of Samuel Miller, she was born in Orange county, October 31, 1866, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Dorsey.  Most of her life was passed in this city [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] where for 38 years she was employed by The Norwich Pharmacal Company. She was a member of the Quarter Century Club of that company.  Service were held Monday afternoon at Emmanuel Episcopal church. Rev. Lloyd S. Charters, rector, officiated.  Burial was made in the family plot in Mt. Hope cemetery [Norwich, NY].  Immediate survivors are a granddaughter, Mrs. Vincent Lowe of North Norwich and one grandson, William M. Clark of this city, also one great-granddaughter, Virginia Lowe, of North Norwich.

 

Martha A. Benedict

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, January 24, 1900

At the residence of Lewis Shaw, 36 Fair street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], at 2:20 o'clock this Tuesday morning.  Mrs. Martha A. Benedict, widow of the late Titus Benedict of Plasterville, died suddenly of neuralgia of the heart, aged 80 years.  Mrs. Benedict was one of the oldest residents of Norwich, a devout Methodist, and leaves a large circle of friends.  One sister Mrs. Elizabeth Moore of Leraysville Pa. survives, also two grandchildren, Howard Benedict of Oswego and Mrs. John Person of this village, who is at present in Sweden, children of Mrs. George Benedict of Cortland street.

 

Mary A. Curtis

Otsego Journal, March 13, 1889

The announcement o Wednesday that Mrs. Joseph Curtis of White Store [Chenango Co., NY], had passed away the previous night, was a mournful source of relief to all who had been cognizant of the intense suffering she has so patiently endured for so many months.  Some two years ago she was stricken with cancer of the most malignant type.  The disease advanced so rapidly that by the advice of her physicians she was induced to go to New York and submit to an operation as the only chance for life left to her. This however only afforded a temporary relief from the ravages of the disease, and it soon became apparent after her return that a fatal termination was only a question of time.  Her great patience under all this suffering, the fortitude and calm resignation to the inevitable, with which she waited for the end, have excited the wonder of those who cared for her.  Her sufferings were remarkable, and the patience with which she endured them were no less so.  She has been a much esteemed resident of White Store for many years.  A kind neighbor, a faithful wife and mother, who in all these capacities will be greatly missed. She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Skinner of Holmesville, and Mrs. Russel Babcock, of South New Berlin.  Her funeral occurred from her late residence on Friday at 12 o'clock and was attended by a large concourse of relatives and friends. Rev. L.B Weeks, of this place, officiated, assisted by Rev. L.C. Hayes of Norwich.

 

Chenango Union, March 7, 1889

CURTIS:  At White Store, March 6th, Mary A., wife of Joseph T. Curtis, aged 56 years.  Funeral at her late residence, Friday, at 12 M.

 

Chenango Union, March 14, 1889

The many friends of Mrs. Joseph Curtis of White Store, were thankful when her sufferings ended and she entered into rest. She has taught lessons of Christian triumph over deadly pain, of meekness and patience under excruciating suffering, which can never be forgotten.  Amid the glories of her heavenly home she waits the coming of her loved ones, where pain and death can never enter.

 

Charles Emmett Crippen

Otsego Journal, November 28, 1907

Charles Emmett Crippen, a well known resident of Worcester, was found dead at his home in this village Saturday afternoon, Mr. Crippen had been living alone for some time and Saturday afternoon, when a neighbor went in to call upon him shortly after one o'clock, he was found to be dead, although evidently having just passed away.  He had seemingly been preparing to shave when stricken, and it is thought that he expired instantly on being taken. The body was warm when the neighbor arrived, as was also the water which he had planned to use in shaving himself.  Dr. Ganung was called, who said that death was caused, undoubtedly, by a shock.  He suffered a shock a few months ago and has been failing since that time. Coroner George A Sloan, of Westford, was called, but he decided to leave the case in the hands of Dr. Ganung to issue the death certificate in accordance with the facts. The deceased was 63 years of age.