Maydole Hammer Co. Personnel - 1900

Worthy of Their Hire

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1900

David Maydole Hammer Company

Forge Room Employees

 



Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The faithful industry of the founder, David Maydole, is being reflected in the daily work of the men employed in the establishment endowed with his name--the David Maydole Hammer company.  For nearly half a century Mr. Maydole devoted himself to the task of producing "the best hammer that could be made," with what success the thriving industry he left at the time of his death in 1882 furnishes most eloquent evidence.  Its successful history is an oft-told and familiar tale.  The secret of this success is largely faithful, honest labor and a desire to excel.  So strongly were these characteristics developed in the founder that they were assimilated by his associates and actuated in the marked degree the employees, many of whom as a natural consequence have seen long terms of service.

 

John Curley

 

In its forging department, where a score or more of men are employed, starting hundreds of tons of the solid, crucible hammer steel on its way to the finished product, some remarkable records have been made in this respect, the most remarkable being that of John Curley, who until last summer was foreman of the forging room.  He began working for Mr. Maydole in August, 1849, and at the time that he severed his connection with the factory, lacked but a few months of completing a half century of continuous service.  He was succeeded as foreman by William Sutton, who died last March with a record of 47 years in one employ.  After his death, the present foreman, Malachi Scanlon, took charge.  Mr. Scanlon has been in the factory over 25 years.  Among the other men in this department Patrick Foy will have been in the service 39 years in August next, Patrick Kilroe 37 years in July, Patrick Shea 37 years in November, John Casey 32 years, Patrick Condon 30 years, James Bolber 28 years, Michael Bolger 28 years, Michael Kilroe 27 years, John Ivory 18 years, Maurice Hickey 16 years, Dennis Griffin 15 years, Edward Stokes 15 years, Joseph Carr 10 years.  Winfield Cummings began working in the factory 30 years ago, and has been there at intervals since; James Hagan after 7 years has gone back to Ireland; John Ruckteshler after a number of years in the forging room has been transferred to another department.  Ernest Frink had been employed a year or more when the photo reproduced herewith was taken something over a year ago.  Out of the group shown two have died, William Sutton and Michael M. Foy. Three or four new men have since been added to the force and do not appear in the picture. The photograph is the work of Ezra Cook, the machinist in the employ of the company. The Globe hopes to publish in future issues group pictures of employees in the other departments of this pioneer industry of  Norwich.

 

They Temper The Hammers

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1900

 

 

David Maydole Hammer Company

They Temper the Hammers

 

Norwich:  Last week The Globe gave its readers a group picture of the men employed in the forging department of the David Maydole Hammer Company.  In this issue appears a picture of the employees in the tempering room among whom there are several long time service men.  Henry C. Sanford, the foreman of the department has been in the employ of the company for 28 years.  Michael Devine and Patrick Murphy have been employed for 28 or 30 years and John Martz over 20 years. The other men shown in the picture, Frank Cole, Roger Jones and Abram Miller have been employed for shorter periods. There is no more important element in the whole process of making durable hammers than the tempering and the men have acquired the skill that comes with long service.

 

Mr. Sanford, the foreman, holds a diploma from the World's Fair at Chicago he having tempered the hammers shown at the exposition.  The diploma was granted for superior merit in this part of the process, similar diplomas being given to each of the foremen in the several departments who personally handled the hammers which made up the display.

 

 

Obituaries (March 18)

 

 

Myrtina Doyle
Utica Saturday Globe, June 1900

 

Myrtina Doyle

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Miss Myrtina Doyle died at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Doyle, on Adelaide street, last Tuesday morning.  She had been ill for a year or more of consumption, but had been able to be out until a few weeks ago.  For the last fortnight she failed rapidly and her death, though expected is deeply mourned. She was the oldest of seven children and possessed a kind and happy disposition which made her a wide circle of friends and was beloved by all who knew her.  She was a member of St. Paul's Catholic Church and also of the choir.  For several years Miss Doyle was a compositor in the office of the Chenango Telegraph, until compelled by ill health to give up the position about two years ago.  She went to New York city, where she was employed for a time. Returning again to Norwich she became a bookkeeper for several months in the office of the Morning Sun.  She is survived by her parents, three brothers, Fred, Harry and Joseph, and three sisters, Mazie, Florence and Rosa, who have the sympathy of all in their bereavement.  The funeral was held form the house at 9 o'clock on Thursday morning, and at 10 o'clock from St. Paul's Church.  Rev. Father John A. Hart officiating. Burial in St. Paul's Cemetery [Norwich, NY].

Amanda Edmonds

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, January 13, 1892

Mrs. Amanda Edmonds, youngest daughter of Mr. David Pheteplace, died January 2ds, 1892, aged28 years.  A grief stricken husband and three little children, the father and mother, and three affectionate sisters and numerous friends deeply mourn the loss of their loved one, for no one knew her but to love her.  The funeral was held at the home of her childhood, where she had come to spend a few weeks from her Norwich home, and was buried in the Evergreen Cemetery at White Store.

Sure and silent came the boatman,

Come to bear her o'er the tide.

Shall we know her, shall we greet her

over on the other side?

 

Yes, we'll know our dearest loved one,

Though her loss we deeply feel.

Yet 'tis God who wisely chastens.

He can all our sorrow heal.

 

Only just across the river

Waiting for us over there,

Sweeping through the "Gates of Glory"

She a crown of life will wear.

 

Willis Dexter

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, January 13, 1892

North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Willis Dexter died at his late residence January 5th.  He was in apparently good health Monday morning when he was stricken and Tuesday at midnight breathed his last.  He was a good citizen ever ready to help those who were in trouble and will be greatly missed.  He leaves a widow to mourn the loss of a kind and indulgent husband who has the sympathy of all in her bereavement. The funeral was attended at his late home, Rev. Crydenwise officiating.  Interment at South Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

 

Death Notices

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, January 13, 1892

 

ROBERTS:  The funeral of Miss Hannah Roberts, of Page Brook [Chenango Co., NY], was held Friday afternoon from her residence.  The deceased was a member of the congregational Church, here [Greene, Chenango Co., NY].

 

ALDRICH:  Augustus Aldrich died at his home January 6th, with the fatal disease, consumption.  He leaves a widow and one son to mourn his loss.  The funeral was attended Saturday. Rev. T.G. Case, of Norwich, officiating.  Interment at south Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

 

LLOYD:  Columbus [Chenango Co., NY]:  The family of John Lloyd were stricken with grief by the death of the daughter, Lizzie [Lloyd], on New Year's Day.  Although she has been in poor health for the past two years her death was sudden and unexpected.  Her funeral occurred on Monday, January 4th.

 

CHAMBERLIN:  Afton [Chenango Co., NY]:  An eight months old child, of Mr. and Mrs. Hudson Chamberlin, died last week Friday, after several weeks illness of typhoid pneumonia.  The funeral occurred Saturday.

 

GROVER:  Afton [Chenango Co., NY]:  Deacon William B. Grover died last week, Friday, after a few days illness with the grip. The funeral was held at the late home of the deceased at Middlebridge, Sunday afternoon, and the remains were laid to rest in Glenwood cemetery [Afton, NY], Rev. L.L. Rury officiating. The deceased was sixty-nine years of age.

 

GROVER:  Afton [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. William B. Grover died Monday morning, after several weeks illness.  The funeral will be held Wednesday and the burial will take place at Glenwood cemetery [Afton, NY], Rev. N.B. Ripley officiating. The deceased was sixty-one years of age.



William Alonzo Hoffman, 1878 - 1927

William Alonzo Hoffman

Utica Saturday Globe, November 1899

 

William Alonzo Hoffman

1878 - 1927

Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]:  This village has the distinction of being the home of one of the youngest, if not the youngest, attorneys ever admitted to practice in this State--William Alonzo Hoffman.

Mr. Hoffman was born on a farm in Preston [Chenango Co., NY], one and a half miles from Oxford, October 10, 1878.  He worked on his father's farm during vacations and attended the country school in Preston until he was able to enter the Oxford Academy, where he attended for three years, walking daily nearly two miles, and doing chores on the farm nights and mornings.  He finished his education at the academy in 1896 and began the study of law in November, graduating with the class of '97.  Mr. Hoffman entered the Albany Law School where he was graduated with the class of '99, and was, with one exception, the youngest man in his class. 

 

He passed the examination for admission to the bar, held at Syracuse, October 17, being then seven days over the age of 21.  Full age is required before the examination may be tried. While at Albany young Hoffman had the reputation of being one of the hardest and most diligent workers of his class. which characteristic throughout his school life enabled him to enter upon the practice of his chosen profession at so early an age. 

 

Mr. Hoffman will open a law office in this village.

_____________________________________

 

The Times Union, Albany, NY, November 2, 1927

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:30 p.m. tomorrow from the residence for William A. Hoffman, 49, deputy, county, supreme and recorder's court clerk for many years, who died suddenly yesterday at his home, 20 Hurlbut street.  Surviving him are is wife, Mrs. Ruth Jewell Hoffman; two sons, Harry J. and Allen Hoffman; a daughter, Mrs. W.W. Smith, of 10 Villa road, Menands; a brother, Clarence Hoffman, of Oxford, and a sister, Mrs. Cora Benedict, of East Orange, N.J.

 

The Times Union, Albany, NY, November 4, 1927

 

William A.  Hoffman, for many years a county court clerk and former Albany newspaperman, died suddenly at his home in this city [Albany, NY] on Tuesday.  His death was a distinct shock to his host of friends who sincerely mourn his passing.

Mr. Hoffman was a graduate of the Albany Law school and was admitted to practice law.  He became a court reporter on one of the local newspapers and was considered an authority on court practice and procedure.  Early in his career he served as police justice in Sidney, his native village.  He was appointed a court official on September 12, 1918.  He became a deputy clerk and served in the county, supreme and recorder's courts and also officiated as deputy naturalization clerk.

He was a loyal, conscientious and faithful county official, his invariable courtesy and ready helpfulness endearing him to attorneys and newspapermen.

In his newspaper experience he covered many of the most important trials in the various courts in the last twenty years.  He was a brilliant and accurate writer and won the commendation of his employers.  His knowledge of court procedure and of the law won him his appointment as court clerk.

Personally a man of many high qualities of mind and heart he won friends wherever he went and these friends are now offering his family their heart-felt condolences on their great loss.  He did his work well and he will receive his reward.

 

 

Obituaries (March 17)

Dr. Frank Sumner Capen

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1900

 

Dr. Frank Sumner Capan

1843 - 1900

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Frank S. Capen, L.L.D., who died last week in Buffalo, is well remembered in Norwich, having been superintendent of the public schools here for two years.  He came here from Cortland, where he taught mathematics in the Normal School.  Twelve years ago he resigned and became principal of the new Normal School at New Paltz, Ulster county, where he remained for 11 years, when he resigned in consequence of differences between him and the trustees of the institution.  For three years there had been almost constant wrangling, until a large element of the village population was arrayed against Dr. Capen.  He insisted that his enemies were seeking his disgrace because he would not submit to their dictation in the management of the school.  He personally provided boarding places for some of the students attending the school and clashed with the keepers of the boarding houses because the students complained that the board was not satisfactory.  He made himself unpopular by making a rule that no young lady student should receive a call from any young man without reporting to him that the appointment had been made, who the caller was and how long he stayed. This made the young people very angry.  The business men of the village declared that he was stingy in buying supplies for the school, while he retorted that he refused to allow any merchant to take advantage of the State just because a Normal School happened to be in the village.  He refused to accept work done by the local printers which did not suit him, and to this he charged the opposition of the village press.  Other teachers in the school refused to remain unless Dr. Capen was removed, but he maintained a vigorous fight until about a year ago, when he suddenly resigned and a few months later removed his family to Buffalo.  There he brooded over his troubles and became despondent.  On Wednesday afternoon, during the temporary absence of his wife, he locked himself in his bedroom and through a rubber tube attached to a jet inhaled gas, after carefully tying a towel about his head to prevent its escape.  When Mrs. Capen returned she found him dead.  Dr. Capen leaves a widow, formerly Mrs. Peck of Lisle, Broome county, three daughters and a son.  He was 56 years of age and was widely known in educational circles, and was famous among teachers as a mathematician.  [Buried in Lisle Village Cemetery, Lisle, Broome Co., NY]

 

The Independent, New Paltz, NY, July 6, 1888

Dr. Frank S. Capen was born in York, Livingston Co., N.Y., December 21, 1843, and is therefore approaching 45 years of age.  His primary education was received in his native place.  Later he prepared for college at the Brockport Collegiate institute, now the Normal School, after which he pursued a classical course of 3 years in Rochester University, graduating in 1868.  In the same year he took the chair of classics in Jamestown Collegiate institute, which he occupied for two terms, teaching Latin, Greek, French and German, when he was called to chair of mathematics in Cortland Normal School, which has just been established.  He remained in Cortland over 15 years, and during the period declined a call to the chair of physics and mathematics of Bucknell University, Lewisburg, Pa., and also to the chair of mathematics of Fredonia Normal School.  In 1884 he became professor physics and astronomy at Colby University, Waterville, Me., remaining two years.  In 1886, desiring to return to his native State, he accepted the position of superintendent of Norwich Academy and Union Free School, which office he has just resigned to take the principalship of the State Normal School at New Paltz, at a salary of $2,500.  During his two years' superior superintendence of the Norwich school, he effected great improvement in the system and management, removing in large degree the reproach into which the school had fallen, and placing it on an efficient footing.  In the summer of 1887 the degree of Ph. D. was conferred upon him by Madison University, and on last Tuesday he was elected a member of a new chapter of the Phi Beta Kappa Society, formed at Rochester, and election to the membership of which is based on scholarship.  During his student life he served a year as private secretary to the Union provost marshal, at Savanah, Pa.  Utica Saturday Globe, June 1888

 

George Taylor

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, January 13, 1892

George Taylor died in Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], December 30th, 1891, aged 80 years 2 months and 10 days.  The deceased was born at Hartford, Conn., October 20th, 1802.  His parents came to the town of Pitcher in 1803, so that he was familiar with the hardships and the history of the first settlers of this locality..  He resided for 87 years upon the same place upon which his parents first located.  He has always been identified with the prosperity, enterprise and anything that contributed to the best interests of the locality where he resided.

 

Flora L. Goodwin

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, January 13, 1892

Mrs. Flora L. Aldrich Goodwin, only daughter of Sylvanus Aldrich, died at her home in Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], Monday afternoon aged about 30 years. She has been an invalid for several years and was prostrated with the grip last week.  She was easily overcome and died from complication of ailments. The funeral services will be held Wednesday at 2 o'clock from her late home, Rev. J . S. Southworth officiating.

 

George E. Pratt

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, January 13, 1892

George E. Pratt died at his home in East Main Street, Monday evening about ten o'clock of pneumonia superinduced by the grip.  He had been ill only about ten days.  Mr. Pratt was thirty-five years of age, a life-long resident of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]  and has been for some time employed as a painter on the Ontario & Western.  He leaves a wife and six children, a mother, Mrs. S.J. Pratt and one brother, Walter Pratt clerk in the Continental Hotel.  His wife and mother are both seriously ill with pneumonia.

 

 

Edwin Morse Mystery Solved- 1899

The Edwin Morse Mystery

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1899

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The mystery which surrounded the disappearance of Edwin Morse, of Holmesville [Chenango Co., NY], was cleared up on Monday by the discovery of his remains in a field within less than 20 rods of his own door.  Mr. Morse disappeared the day after Christmas last December and the most diligent search failed to reveal the slightest clue to his whereabouts. The search was finally given up by his relatives and it was generally believed that he was dead, though there was no evidence to establish the fact. Exactly 95 days from the day he disappeared, his body was found by Delos Wheeler, who recently purchased the property known as the Phelps farm, which adjoins the premises owned by Mr. Morse.  Mr. Wheeler was looking over his line fence about 5 o'clock last Monday afternoon when he came upon the remains lying beside the board fence on his property just off the land belonging to Mr. Morse and within 10 rods of the highway. He notified Alah Morse, a nephew of the deceased and poormaster of the town of New Berlin, in which the hamlet of Holmesville is located.  Coroner Harris, viewing the remains was satisfied that death was due to a natural cause and did not deem an inquest necessary. 

 

When found the body lay on its back in a natural position, the head tipped back and the hat fallen from it.  One hand and arm was resting across the chest and the other was lying naturally by the side of the body. The remains were in a remarkable state of preservation considering the time that had elapsed since death occurred. They were lying on the north side of the fence and had been hidden from view by a huge drift of snow. The fence was partly down a few feet away from the spot and though persons were in the habit of passing that way in taking a short cut across lots the body had never been discovered until Mr. Wheeler found it as described.

 

Had he lived until January 7 last, Mr. Morse would have been 67 years of age.  He was born in the town of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] and had spent his life in farming.  His sole surviving brother is William Morse....  Mrs. Morse died about 30 years ago.  For several years Mr. Morse occupied the little house and plot of ground he owned at Holmesville, and worked for farmers in that vicinity.  For several months prior to his disappearance he made his home with his brother.  One daughter, Mrs. James Bronson, of Edmeston, survives and their grandchildren.  His funeral was held at 1 o'clock on Wednesday afternoon. Burial at White Store [Chenango Co., NY]

Obituaries (March 15)

Sally (Dimmick) Thompson

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1900

 

Sally (Dimmick) Thompson

1805-1900

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. Sally Thompson, or as she was familiarly known to many Norwich people, "Aunt Sally" Thompson, passed peacefully into rest at her home on Court street on Tuesday afternoon,.  Mrs. Thompson was nearly 95 years of age, having been born in Tolland, Conn., July 17, 1805.  When she was 9 years old her father, Matthew Dimmick, brought his family to Plymouth, in this county, where he engaged in farming, and his eldest daughter, Sally, attended school and at the age of 18 became a teacher.  She engaged in teaching for 25 years, from the summer of '23 to the winter of '47, first in the town of Plymouth and afterwards in Norwich, where for a time she conducted a select school in the basement of the old wood Methodist Church. There are quite a number of people still residents here who remember those days. She afterwards taught in the Norwich Academy.  Among her records she leaves a complete enrollment of names of the pupils who came under her charge during the different terms she taught. There are 1.424 names on these lists, among which appear many that are familiar today in many spheres of usefulness.  With her earnings from teaching she bought the property on Court street where for over half a century she had made her home.  November 30, 1848 she was united in marriage to Dr. James Thompson, a prominent physician, who died in 1872.  Their union was childless, but Mrs. Thompson became a loving and fond mother to a family of seven children of Dr. Thompson from a former marriage.  She was the eldest of 12 children, one of whom died in infancy. Three brothers, Asael Dimmick, aged 91, of Norwich; Matthew Dimmick, of Pitcher, Harvey Dimmick, of Plymouth, survive her, and also one sister, Mrs. Minerva Corey, who lives in Iowa.  Of six sisters five were school teachers.  Mrs. Thompson's life was remarkable for its earnest Christian effort. She was one of the first members of the W.C.T.U. and among the foremost in the work. Converted at the age of 21 she became a member of the Methodist church in Norwich at its organization in January, 1827, and was the last survivor of the original membership. She was very active in the work of the church until about seven years ago, when she suffered a fall which confined her to the house much of the time since. But her interest in Christian work was unabated and her home became the meeting palce of many religious gatherings.  A meeting for the promotion of holiness  was held there weekly until about a fortnight ago.  It was just at the hour of its meeting that she closed her eyes upon the scenes of this world Tuesday afternoon.  So beautiful was her character that her memory will be cherished by all with whom she came in contact during her long life. The funeral was held on Thursday afternoon at 1 o'clock from the Broad street M.E. Chruch, the pastor, Rev. Wilson Treible, officiating. Burial in Mount Hope [Norwich, NY]

 

Martha A. Benedict

Utica Saturday Globe, January 1900

Mrs. Martha A. Benedict passed away Tuesday at the home of Lewis Shaw on Fair street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], where she made her home.  She was 80 years of age and was the widow of Titus Benedict, a former well known farmer of the town of North Norwich. She was a devout Methodist and had a large circle of friends. She is survived by a sister, Mrs. Elizabeth Moore, of Le Raysville, Pa.  Her funeral will be held this (Friday) morning at the home of her daughter-in-law, Mrs. George Benedict, on Cortland street, Rev. Samuel Moore officiating.  Interment will take place at North Norwich.

 

Nancy U. (Jones) Doolittle

Chenango Union, February 11, 1886

DOOLITTLE:  At Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], suddenly, Feb. 3d, Mrs. William Doolittle.

 

One of our most respected citizens, Mrs. William Doolittle, was suddenly stricken with paralysis on Wednesday afternoon, and died within a few hours, without recovering consciousness.  The large attendance at her funeral, which occurred on Saturday at Union church, showed the estimation in which she was held. Rev. J. Bradshawe, her pastor, preached a sermon of great excellence on the occasion. The family have the deep sympathy6 of all in their bereavement.

 

Rockwell's Mills:  Mrs. William Doolittle died very suddenly, Wednesday evening, February 3d, of paralysis. She was stricken at the tea table, and died the same evening. A Christian wife and mother has gone. The family have the sympathy of the entire community in their great sorrow.

 

Isaac Thornton

Chenango Union, February 11, 1886

On Thursday last Coroner Avery was summoned by telephone to McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], to hold an inquest in the case of Isaac Thornton, who was found dead in bed at his residence about one and one-half miles west of the village.  It appeared that one Henry Brigham, a shiftless character, had for some months past made his home with the Thornton family, and that there was not the most friendly feeling existing between the two men, although they occupied the same bed on Wednesday night.  Upon arising on Thursday morning, Brigham discovered that Thornton was dead; and as he had frequently been heard to remark that the Thornton family would be all broke before spring," an inquest was considered necessary.  Upon the arrival of the Coroner, a jury was empaneled at the house of the deceased and witnesses sworn.  An autopsy was made by Dr. Blair, and nothing found to confirm the suspicions of foul play. The jury found that Thornton came to his death by ossification of the valve of the heart.  Deceased was a working man, about forty-five years of age and leaves a wife and four children.

 

Some Men of the Hour, Norwich NY 1900

Some Men of the Hour

Utica Saturday Globe, January 1900

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The new year has been prolific in business changes in which young men have figured conspicuously.  Several of these changes are regarded with more than passing interest, as the young men concerned are widely acquainted and their many friends are pleased at their evident prosperity and wish them the full measure of success in their efforts to get to the front.

 

Linn H. Babcock

 

 

Perhaps no local establishment has done more to make the name of Norwich familiar throughout a large section of the State that the firm of L.&A. Babcock, dealers in pianos and organs.  The business was started in South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] in 1862 by Dr. Linn Babcock, the present head of the firm.  In 1865 he took in as partner his younger brother, Adrian, and for 35 years down to the present the partnership has continued with annually increasing sales and success.  In 1870 the firm moved to Norwich and four years later fitted up the spacious warerooms on East Main street, which they have occupied for more than a quarter of a century. The announcement has now been made of the admission of Linn H. Babcock, third son of Dr. Babcock as a member of the firm.  The new member has grown up with the business, and for several years has been actively connected with it, having acted as salesman. To his love of music, in which vocally he has made a reputation as a bass soloist, he adds the winning qualities of a genial young gentleman of sterling integrity and personal worth, who will aid in making the business of the firm even more prosperous in the future, if possible, than it has been in the past.  The new firm style if L.A.&LH. Babcock.

 

Burton E. Reynolds

Burton E. Reynolds, who recently purchased a half interest in the drug store of Sidney E. Smith, is 27 years of age and was born in Oneida, where ten years ago he became a clerk in the drug store of J. Harris Cool.  Two years later he went to New Berlin, and three years later, in 1895, he came to Norwich and entered the employ of Mr. Smith.  Since his residence here, he has by his skill as a pharmacist combined with his social qualities made a large circle of friends.  Owing to the enforced absence of Mr. Smith from the store, Mr. Reynolds has had active charge much of the time, and from the position he held, the step into the partnership was easy and natural. 

 

The drug business now conducted by Smith & Reynolds was started about 25 years ago by Charles Collins in a part of the H.N. Walter jewelry store, now occupied by A.D. Sturges. After conducting it for a few years Mr. Collins sold the business to Charles Chase, who six months later disposed of it to Manley P. Green.  Mr. Green conducted the business for some ten years, during which he bought the book store of Frank Sibley across the street, next south of the present quarters of the drug store, and combined it with his drug business.  In 1888 Sidney E. Smith bought a half interest in the drug business, Mr. Green having in the meantime disposed of the book stock.  In 1890, Mr. Smith bought out his partner and in 1895 moved to the present location which was specially fitted up for him, and is regarded as one of the most richly furnished and best appointed drug stores in the state. The fixtures are of solid mahogany and plate glass, the floor of matched colored tiling.

 

George H. Ruckteshler

 

 

George H. Ruckteshler, having purchased the interest of his partner, Joseph Barbary, in the confectionery and cigar store in the Cook Block, is now sole proprietor.  Mr. Ruckteshler is just past his majority, having been born in Guilford [Chenango Co., NYT] March 14, 1878.  He is the son of Mr.and Mrs. John Ruckteshler and came to Norwich when five years of age and entered the public schools.  For eight years he was a valued employee of the Norwich Silk manufacturing company, with whom he learned the trade of twister and weaver.  A year ago he bought a half interest in the business of which he has now assumed full control.  The store is conveniently located and handsomely fitted up, and that Mr. Ruckteshler deserves success goes without saying, as he is a young man much respected and has the requisite ability to meet the wants of the purchasing public.

Obituaries (March 14)

Arthur C. Lewis

Utica Saturday Globe, February 1900

 

Arthur C. Lewis

1859 - 1900

A telegram was received in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] on Tuesday announcing the death at his home in the borough of Brooklyn on Monday of Arthur C. Lewis, a Norwich printer who joined the composing force of the New York Journal about 12 years ago.  He learned his trade in the office of the Chenango Union from which employ several printers have been drafted by the journal.  About three weeks ago Mr. Lewis contracted a cold which developed into pneumonia and a week later his mother, Mrs. Ann Lewis, was called from her home in this village to his bedside where she has been for a fortnight.  His life had been in the balance for several days and the fatal ending came not unexpectedly. Besides his widowed mother, deceased is survived by his widow, Harriet Foster, daughter of Rev. George W. Foster, formerly of Norwich.  He was 41 years of age.  His father, Calvin Lewis, was a member of the old Norwich piano manufacturing firm of Hayes, Lattin & Co.  The body was brought to Norwich for burial on Thursday morning, funeral services being conducted from the home of Mrs. D.M. Ovialt, an aunt of the deceased, on South Broad street, at 10 o'clock, Rev. R.N. Martin officiating.  Interment in Mount Hope [Norwich, NY].

 

Mercy A. Luther

Utica Saturday Globe, February 1900

Mrs. Mercy A. Luther, widow of Prof. Delos Luther, died at her home in Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], Saturday from the effects of burns received on Thursday. She was 81 years of age and since the death of her husband had lived alone. Thursday morning while engaged in lighting the fire her clothes became in some manner ignited and before help arrived she was horribly burned, her injuries resulting in death two days later.  More than 50 years ago she united with the Baptist Church, she having experienced religion during revival meetings conducted at East Pharsalia by Revs. Levi Peck and G.S. Swan.  Her funeral was held in the Free Methodist church at Pharsalia, Rev.. W.G. Van Arsdale officiating.

 

Charles H. Touey

Utica Saturday Globe, February 1900

Word was received in town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] by Mrs. William R Tiffany of the death and burial of her brother, Charles H. Touey, in Chicago.  Mr. Touey's death resulted from appendicitis, for which he underwent an operation.  He was a native of Chenango county, his parents residing for many years near King's Settlement. After attending the old Academy in this village several years he accepted a clerkship with J.B. Merrick and later was head salesman for the Sturdevant Brothers when they conducted a dry goods store in the building now occupied by S.E. Johns.  He went from there to Gilbertsville with Giles Sturdevant when he engaged in business in that place. He was afterwards floor walker for a large dry goods house in Albany for five years, but for the past 12 years has resided in Chicago and was engaged as traveling salesman.  He leaves a mother, three sisters and two brothers.

 

Harriet A. Nichols

Morning Sun, January 28, 1900

Miss Harriet A. Nichols who has conducted a millinery shop in Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] for the past fifteen years or more, was found dead in her bed Wednesday.  She lived alone in rooms connected with her shop and was last seen about the place on Monday.  Her unusual absence from business began to be talked about and a search was instituted. Wednesday the store door was broken open and Miss Nichols' body found as above stated. She had evidently been dead since Monday.  Coroner Harris of this village was notified, who after viewing the remains and inquiring into the circumstances, decided an inquest unnecessary.  Mrs. Nichols was about 55 years old and came to Sherburne from Watertown about twenty-five years ago. The body was sent to Watertown yesterday for burial.

Rev. Henry F. Curtin - 1900

Rev. Henry F. Curtin

Utica Saturday Globe, 1900

 

Rev. Henry F. Curtin

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Rev. Father Henry F. Curtin, who came to Norwich from Rochester to assist in the services of Easter Sunday at St. Paul's Catholic church and was assigned as assistant to he beloved pastor, Rev. Father John A. Hart, at once entered upon his duties.  Rev. Father Curtin was born in Marcellus, N.Y., and was educated at St. Bernard's Seminary.  He was ordained only last month and came to Norwich as his first charge. During the brief space that he has been here he has won his way to the hearts of the people in the congregation and the relations existing between them promise to be very pleasant.

Obituaries (March 13)

Rufus Thompson

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1900

Rufus E. Thompson, for 16 years sexton of the Congregational Church in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], died at his home on West Main street last Sunday afternoon, after an illness of several days of pneumonia.  He was in his 72d year, having been born in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] June 8, 1828.  His mother died when he was but 2 years old and his boyhood was spent in the homes of relatives and friends until he was able to take care of himself.  He afterwards found employment in Smyrna and Norwich and later traveled quite extensively visiting California, and other western States and making two trips across the Atlantic.  December 15, 1870, he married at Oxford Mary A. Williams, third daughter of Deacon Samuel Williams, of Norwich, and shortly after their marriage they went to Williamsport, Pa.  A little later Mr. Thompson engaged in the lumber business at Emporium, Pa., and for several years did a large and lucrative business, but panicky times struck the country, breaking banks and business houses right and left and the West Creek Lumber company as among the unfortunates.  Nineteen years ago Mr. Thompson brought his family to Norwich, where they have since lived. Three years later he became sexton of the Congregational Church, a position he filled faithfully until his fatal sickness.  Earlier misfortunes did not spoil his naturally sunny disposition and though the position he held was humble he will be greatly missed--"for he was a good man."  These words with singular appropriateness were chosen by Rev. Samuel Moore as a text from which to speak at the funeral held in the church on Wednesday afternoon.  Besides his widow he leaves two children, Mrs. Arthur Galloway, of Unionville, N.Y., and Lulu Thompson, of this village.  One brother, John Thompson, of Canton, Steuben county, also survives.

 

Mary A. (Williams) Thompson

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, September 10, 1902

Mrs. Mary A. Thompson died at the City hospital last evening at 6:30- o'clock, after an operation for cancer performed during the afternoon.  Mrs. Thompson had been a resident of this city [Binghamton, Broome Co., NY] for a number of years and lived with her daughter, Mrs. Carrie Galloway, No. 8 Elizabeth street.  She is survived by two children, Mrs. Galloway and Miss Lula Thompson, both of this city.  She formerly lived in Norwich and had many friends living in that vicinity.  prayer service will be held at the residence, No. 8 Elizabeth street, this afternoon, at one o'clock, and the body will be taken to Norwich for burial--Binghamton Republican, 9th.

 

Deceased was the widow of the late Rufus Thompson, who resided on West Main street, and was for many years sexton of the Congregational church.  The body will arrive in Norwich on the 4:44 Lackawanna train this Tuesday afternoon, and will be taken to the home of Mrs. Towner, Fair street, from where the funeral will be held Wednesday afternoon. Burial in Mt. Hope cemetery, by the side of her husband .  [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY]

 

Sarah Doolittle

Sidney Enterprise, December 21, 1921

The many friends of Mrs. Sarah Doolittle were greatly shocked Monday afternoon to learn of her death, which had occurred at 4 o'clock that afternoon, the cause of her death being a shock.  Mrs. Doolittle was apparently in her usual health during the past week, she having been an attendant at the Sunday evening services in the Methodist church.  On returning from there to her home, she complained of a pain in the top of her head and took a tablet and then went to her room for the night.  Miss Katherine Place, with whom she made her home, heard a noise from her room and going there she found Mrs. Doolittle lying on the floor,  She got her into her bed and gave her such aid as was possible until the arrival of the physician.  Mrs. Doolittle was conscious and besides complaining of the pain in her head also spoke of the numbness in her arms and hands. The physician upon his arrival pronounced it a straight case of paralytic shock. She kept growing gradually worse until a short time before her death when unconsciousness came and she passed away at 4 o'clock on Monday afternoon.  Mrs. Doolittle was born at Rockwell's Mills sixty years ago; 42 years ago on new Year's day she was united in marriage to Eugene Doolittle, and to them were born two sons, one of whom, William Doolittle, of Latham's Corners, survives.  Her husband died about four years ago, and she came to Sidney, three years ago to make her home. During her residence in Sidney, by her piety and quiet, unassuming manners and endearing disposition she had made friends of all with whom she became acquainted.  In her girlhood she gave her heart to her Savior and during the remaining portion of her life she was active in the service of her church so long as health would permit.  Besides the son mentioned, she is survived by three brothers, Rev. Geo. F. Place of Dallas, Pa.; Newton Place of Bayonne, N.J.; Leon Place of Montreal Canada, and three sisters, Miss Katharine Place, with whom she made her home; Mrs. Frank Birdsall and Mrs. Mary Hall, and Miss Mary Place. The funeral services will be held at the home on Avery street, Thursday afternoon at 1 o'clock, Rev. A.D. Finch officiating; the interment will be in the cemetery at White Store [Chenango Co., NY]

Post listing March 6-12, 2017

Listing of blog postings for the week of March 6-12, 2017.

Marriages

Posted March 11, 2017

William W. Dibble - E. Christine Frink (1899)

Nettie E. Blackman - Alva A. Crandall (1899)

Marriage Notices - 1820

     William Avery - Hannah Dixon

     Ammon Merritt - Trudy(?) Purdy

Obituaries

Posted March 6, 2017

Gilbert Bowers (Plasterville, 1900)

Harriet H. (Pendell) Bowers (Plasterville, 1903)

William H. Curtiss (White Store, 1875)

Posted March 7, 2017

Hudson R. Parker (Sherburne, 1900)

John Mudge (Mt. Upton, 1898)

Erasmus Smith (Norwich, 1883)

Anna Douglass (Binghamton, 1883)

Oliver Dimmick (Norwich, 1883)

Posted March 8, 2017

Huse Karr (Smyrna, 1900)

Edson Eliot Davis (Holmesville, 1923)

Eugene Doolittle (Rockwell's Mills, 1917)

Nelson Eugene Doolittle (Latham's Corners, 1905

Posted March 9, 2017

Mrs. Timothy G. Donovan (Clinton, 1900)

Harriet A. Sholes (Sherburne, 1900)

Merlin J. Ford (Mt. Upton, 1900)

Posted March 10, 2017

Delos L. Atkyns (Sherburne, 1900)

Mary Charlotte (Lawson) Sholes Atkyns (Sherburne, 1933)

Posted March 11, 2017

Dr. William Henry Stuart (Norwich, 1900)

Noyes L. Thompson (Oxford, 1900)

Posted March 12, 2017

Theodore F. Brookins (Norwich, 1900)

Mary Fish (Otego, 1905)

Leroy S Corey (Otego, 1905)

Adelbert F. Peckham (Smyrna, 1928)

 

Miscellaneous

Posted March 12, 2017

Norwich, NY Police Force is established, April 1900

 



Norwich's Paid Police Force - 1900

The Paid Police Force

Norwich Now Enjoys This Notable Public Improvement

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1900

 

The Three Finest of Norwich

Policemen John E. Hogan, David Harris and Lewis H. Bowers

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  A paid police force in Norwich is now a fact and has been for a week.  The three members of the force made their maiden appearance last Sunday morning in full uniform, including white gloves.  It must not be inferred form this that they belong in the kid glove class, for nothing would be further from the fact. They are all "sober men and true and attentive to their duty."  Their dignified appearance has been duly impressed from the start, while their usefulness is being proven daily. Three handsomer, more stalwart, specimens it would be hard to find.

 

On Sunday the weather was balmy and spring like and many people were tempted out of doors, partly to enjoy the bright sunshine and partly to see and admire the new policemen who were easily the most admired men in the village for the time being at least.  Their neat-fitting uniforms and snow-white gloves made them rather conspicuous and they were easily distinguished from the common herd of humanity.  They were subjected to the closest and most critical scrutiny but bore up bravely under it and came out without a mark of criticism worth mentioning.  On Monday the weather mood changed and Old Winter, as if in spite because Spring had cracked a smile the day before, took hold with a fresh and furious grasp. The policemen's lisle thread gloves gave place....

 

....of police and he has assigned the men to duty as follows:  Policeman Hogan will be the day man.  He will report for duty at 1 a.m. and remain until 6 p.m,  Policemen Bowers and Harris will come on duty at 6 p.m.  Bowers will have the northern precinct and Harris the southern.  Bowers will remain until relieved by Hogan.  Harris will go off duty at 4 a.m. (daylight) and report at 1 p.m. to relieve Hogan one hour for dinner. The arrangement gives police protection during every hour of the day and double protection at night.  It is possible that a substitute policeman may be appointed to do special duty and relieve the regular policemen when necessary.

 

The good effect of the force is already evident. During Sunday some notorious resorts were closed and loafing on the street corners has been perceptibly lessened.  Policeman Hogan made his first arrest on Sunday, gathering in a drunk on North Broad street.  Probably three better men could not have been selected. Each will vie with the other in doing his full duty and doing it in the right way. The day of observing the law and preserving order in Norwich has dawned.

 

__________________________________

 

Norwich Police Force

Appeared on Duty in Full Uniform Sunday Morning--Hours of Service

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, April 11, 1900

 

At a special meeting of the village trustees held Saturday evening, the resolution adopted at the last charter election, "That hereafter there shall be a paid police force in the village of Norwich, N.Y., was duly adopted and at once became operative.  Other resolutions relative to the rules and regulations governing the department were adopted and the following officers appointed:  Lewis H. Bowers, No. 7; David E. Harris, No. 6; John E. Hogan, No. 5.  The salary was fixed at $45 per month.  After the passage of the above resolutions, the newly commissioned officers were brought before the meeting for inspection, attired in their new regalia, after which final instructions were given them.

 

The uniforms are dark blue, regulation style, and the wearers present a very attractive and dignified appearance as they pass along the streets.

 

Mayor Hewitt, who under the charter is also chief of police, has assigned the policemen to duty as follows:  Policeman Hogan will be the day man.  He will report for duty at 1 a.m. and remain until 6 p.m,  Policemen Bowers and Harris will come on duty at 6 p.m.  Bowers will have the northern precinct and Harris the southern.  Bowers will remain until relieved by Hogan.  Harris will go off duty at 4 a.m. (daylight) and report at 1 p.m. to relieve Hogan one hour for dinner.  All have provided Marquis phones in their residences and may be called at any time when not on duty.  The above arrangement gives police protection during every hour of the day and double protection at night.  It is possible that a substitute policeman may be appointed to do special duty, and relieve the regular policemen when necessary.

 

 

Obituaries (March 12)

Theodore F. Brookins

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1900

 

Theodore F. Brookins

1874 - 1900

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Theodore F. Brookins, second son of W.H. Brookins, died at the home of his brother, Lee Brookins about four miles east of Norwich on the road to South New Berlin, last Wednesday, April 11, 1900.  Mr. Brookins was but 26 years of age and until about two months ago, when compelled by failing health to give up the position, was principal of the Au Sable Forks Academy, where he was very successful and was doing a work which reflected much credit upon himself and the school, and which gave promise of a bright future for him as an educator. When forced to retire he came to the home of his brother here, his own former home, in the hope that a short rest would enable him to recuperate, but his disease, consumption, had too strong a hold upon him and he was forced to succumb.  Mr. Brookins was highly respected by all who knew him.  He was of a refined and intelligent nature and was graduated from Norwich High School and later from Colgate University.  He was married to Miss Mable Paul, a teacher in one of the Norwich ward schools, about two years ago.  Besides his widow, his parents and five brothers survive him.  One of the brothers, Linn, is with the Forty-third Regiment in the Philippines; another, Lewis, is night operator at the D.L.&W. station in this village.  Funeral services were held in the church in North Norwich, this afternoon at 1 o'clock, Rev. J.R. Edwards, pastor of Calvery Church, Norwich, officiating. Burial was at North Norwich.

 

Mary Fish

Otsego Journal, April 27, 1905

Otego [Otsego Co., NY]:  Mrs. Mary Fish died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. R.G. Cornell, on West Branch Friday evening at eight o'clock at the advanced age of 91 years.  Deceased has been a resident of this town nearly all her life as far as the writer knows, at least fifty years. She was a highly respected lady and much loved by her near friends.  She was the wife of the late Earl Fish, who died nearly forty years ago.  Mrs. Fish is survived by one son, Liberal Fish, who resides at South Dakota, who visited her a few months ago, and the daughter above mentioned; also one sister, Mrs. Kate Barr, of Gilbertsville.  The funeral was held Monday afternoon from the house, the Rev. C.O. Brown officiating and the remains laid at rest in Evergreen Cemetery.

 

Leroy S. Corey

Otsego Journal, April 27, 1905

Otego [Otsego Co., NY]:  Leroy S Corey died Tuesday evening at ten o'clock at his home on River street, where he has resided nearly all of his life time with the exception of about six years in his early life when he resided with his parents in New Lisbon.  Deceased was an honest, industrious mechanic, following the occupation of cobbler and always found at his post.  Mr. Corey, who was about seventy years of age, was stricken about two years ago with heart trouble and his long illness brought him down very thin and weak at his death.  he was the son of the late Benjamin Corey, who will be remembered by many of the older inhabitants of this town, and is also remembered by the writer although he died many years ago.  He is survived by a wife and an adopted son and one sister, Mrs. Nancy Seeber, of Richfield Springs. The funeral will be held Friday afternoon at the house with Rev. I.J. Smith officiating, and the remains laid at rest in Evergreen Cemetery.

 

Adelbert F. Peckham

Norwich Sun, October 9, 1928

Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY]:  The death of Adelbert F. Peckham of this place which occurred at the Chenango Memorial Hospital on Thursday evening October 4, following an accident on Wednesday, when he was struck by a passenger train on the Ontario and Western railroad crossing near his home, removes from the town one of the most valued and best loved citizens, and from the family a husband and father whose one thought was for their welfare.  In the home, he will be missed as a wise and careful counsellor for every material and spiritual need of the family, in the community as an ever obliging friendly neighbor, always interested in the progress of the better things of his town, state and nation, and in the church as a dependable help and inspiration in the various departments, always willing to take his part and more to make the work a success and further the work of the Lord whom he trusted and obeyed.  Of Quaker parentage, he was born September 7, 1891, at White Rock, Kansas, the son of the late Henry Knowles and Sarah Babcock Peckham.  His early home training made a lasting impression on him and wherever he went he affiliated himself with that church and became active in its every interest.  In the year 1901 he came to New York state to reside and since then Smyrna, the home of his parents, has been him home.  For many years he has been a member of the local Methodist Episcopal church where he will be greatly missed.  On December 29, 1907, he was united in marriage to Louise Barber who, with two daughters and one son survives.  He is also survived by three brothers and three sisters, Harry of Rantoul, Kansas; John of Newark, New Jersey; Roy of Hardy, Nebraska; Mrs. Edith Vinson of Rantoul, Kansas; Miss Ada Peckham of Springfield, Ohio and Mrs. Estella Weaver of Smyrna. Funeral services were conducted on Monday afternoon from his home, Rev. Harry Brooks of Afton, his former pastor officiating with interment in Sherburne West hill cemetery [Chenango Co., NY].