Marriages (March 25)

Curtis - Lyon

Utica Saturday Globe, March 1903

Lynn B. & Lilla M. (Lyon) Curtis

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The home of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Lyon, at Plasterville, was the scene of a pretty wedding Wednesday evening, when their only daughter, Lilla M. [Lyon], was united in marriage to Lynn B. Curtis, who resides near Wood's Corners. The home was tastily decorated for the occasion and Rev. Spencer J. Ford performed the ceremony in the presence of about 30 relatives and friends. The wedding gifts were beautiful and valuable.  After congratulations, a wedding supper was served and Mr. and Mrs. Curtis left on the midnight train for a brief wedding trip, during which they will visit friends in Fort Plain. The bride and groom are both popular and attractive young people and have the best wishes of a large circle of friends for their future happiness and prosperity.

 

Obituary--Linn B. Curtis

Norwich Sun, October 25, 1918

Linn B. Curtis was born in the town of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on February 12, 1879, and passed into rest at his home in Plasterville on Thursday, Oct. 24, 1918.  The funeral will be held Saturday afternoon, the Rev. R.L. Clark of Norwich officiating. Burial will be made in Mt. Hope cemetery [Norwich, NY].  Linn B. Curtis was one of Chenango county's best known agriculturists.  Practically all of his life was spent in this locality, where his death will be deeply felt, not only by the immediate family, but by a large circle of friends, all of whom mourn the untimely passing of one who was still in the prime of life.  On march 11, 1903 he was united in marriage to Lilla M. Lyon, who survives him.  He was a quiet, home-loving man, and while he had time for many charitable and political enterprises, it was in his home that his chief interests centered.  He had served the town of North Norwich as supervisor, and also as a collector.  He was public spirited and always willing to give of his time and labor in any undertaking for the benefit of the community.  Mr. Curtis was a member of the Maccabees, and of the I.O.O.F.  He also belonged to Galena grange and Pomona grange.  In both of the latter he was a very prominent member, and deeply interested in the agricultural pursuits throughout the county.  In his passing, the town of North Norwich, and the county of Chenango lose a splendid citizen, a man of high principle and noble example.  Besides his widow, he is survived by his mother, Mrs. Byron Gale of Norwich, two brothers, Grove Curtis of Wood's Corners and Glenn Curtis of Norwich, and one sister, Mrs. Howard Christian, also of Norwich.

 

Marriage  Notices

Chenango Union, April 22, 1875

 

ADAMS - WALKER:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], April 17th, by Rev. W.H. Waldron, Mr. Martin Adams to Miss Fannie E. Walker, all of Norwich.

 

SAWYER - SAWYER:  In Cooperstown [Otsego Co., NY], March 31st, by Rev. A.S. Clark, Mr. Henry Sawyer of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Amy Sawyer of New Lisbon [Otsego Co., NY].

 

CADY - COLEMAN:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], April 16th, 1875 by Rev. W.H. Waldron, Mr. Albert Cady of Brisben [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Betsey Coleman of Norwich.

 

DAILY - TYLER:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], April 18th, by Rev. W.H. Gavitt, Mr. William H. Daily of Brisben [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Celia A. Tyler of Greene.

 

WEBB - HOVEY:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], April 13th, by Rev. A.B. Richardson, Mr. George Webb of Bainbridge to Miss Mary E. Hovey of Guilford Centre [Chenango Co., NY]

 

HODGINS - SLITER:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], April 11th, by A.A. Van Horne, Mr. Wm. B. Hodgins to Miss Adelia Sliter, both of Sidney Plains [Delaware Co., NY]

Obituaries (March 25)

Maj. Edwin L. Brand

Utica Saturday Globe, December 1900

 

 

Maj. Edwin L. Brand

1834 - 1900

 

Maj. Edwin L. Brand, a prominent resident of Chicago, expired after a brief illness at is home, 1,918 Michigan avenue, in that city, Tuesday afternoon.  Deceased was well known in central New York, where he was born and where he lived to manhood until his removal to Chicago 52 years ago where he won fame and fortune in his profession.  His affection for the scenes of youth and early manhood were strong and he was a frequent visitor to these parts and was widely known and highly regarded.

 

Deceased was born in Edmeston, Otsego county  [NY], in 1834.  He began life as a farmer and, in his 17th year, associated with a traveling photographer, with whom he learned picture taking.  He opened up on his own account in Leonardsville, near his birthplace, then came to Utica to make daguerreotypes, his office being in the Deveraux Block.  This was in 1854.  Here he remained 18 months.  Then he moved to Norwich where he carried on a photograph gallery two years.  In 1858 he moved to Chicago and from the first, secured a profitable patronage.  The wealthiest families of that city soon found they had a genius in their midst for reproducing faces and he never lacked for patrons.  His studio in Lake street he soon outgrew and then a larger one was occupied on Washington, where the great fire of 1870 found him and reduced is valuable stock of pictures, negatives and other material to ashes.  It was a great blow.  His loss exceeded his insurance by $75,000.  He bravely set to work to retrieve his fortune, and succeeded.  He reopened for business on Walash avenue, made money faster than ever, and was obliged to build farther down the avenue a structure that would give him the requisite room for his expanding patronage.  Last year another gallery was opened on Jackson boulevard which has also proved very successful.  As a photographer Mr. Brand had no superior; even very few equals.  He was a tireless worker and an inventor.  Indeed his death is attributed to overwork in which his nervous system gave out, and heart failure followed. Though not a well man, recently he had worked night and day on an invention for the developing a new style photograph intended to show both a full face and silhouette view and which he described to his wife only the day before his death the process by which such a result might be obtained.  Mr. Brand never had been sick until this winter and presumed on his physical forces, believing he had an iron constitution.  he was an excellent judge of real estate and largely added to his fortune by the advance in price of his property investments in that city.

 

When Col. Elmer E. Ellsworth organized the United States Zouave Cadets in Chicago, in 1858, young Brand was of the first to be enrolled and with it made the tour of the country in 1860.  When Ellsworth resigned in 1861 to organize the New York Fire Zouaves for the war, Mr. Brand was elected captain of the company and remained at its head until its disbandment in 1868.  He organized the Chicago Hussars, was made its commander and made it a famous cavalry battalion.  He was an Odd Fellow and also a Knight of Pythias.  In 1878 he originated the Uniformed Ranks of the Knights of Pythias.  Recently he spent the summers with his family at Richfield Springs, where he had built a large cottage.

 

Besides his wife, one son and one daughter survive, Edwin L., Jr., and Miss Belle Brand.  Three brothers are also living:  James H. of Utica; G. Byron, of Chicago, and Alfred Brand, of Detroit. The funeral services were held in Chicago yesterday and the remains will be conveyed to this city and committal services will be at Forest Hill cemetery.

 

Alice Bennett

Norwich Sun, October 25, 1918

Miss Alice Bennett, formerly of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], died on October 16, in Middleville, Herkimer county, a victim of influenza followed by pneumonia.  For several years she was a teacher in Guilford, Bainbridge and Middleville, and was well known through out the county, where her death will be mourned by many friends.

 

Sidney Enterprise, October 23, 1918

Miss Alice Bennett of Bainbridge, died at Middleville, Herkimer county [NY], where she was teaching, recently from the results of influenza.  Miss Bennett was 36 years of age and had taken up school work at the opening of the fall term.  Her mother Mrs. Howard Bennett was living with her at Middleville.

 

Sidney Record, October 26, 1918

Mrs. S.A. Williams and Mrs. J.R. Williams, who is a guest of the former in this village [Sidney, NY], on Saturday attended the funeral of Miss Alice Bennett, held in Oxford. The deceased was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Howard Bennett of Bainbridge, a graduate of the school in that village, and at the time of her death was employed as teacher in the schools at Middleville, N.Y.  Her father died at the Binghamton State hospital only a few months ago. She was thirty-six years of age and before locating in Bainbridge the family resided in Oxford, N.Y.

 

Abel Comstock Willcox

Norwich Sun, October 25, 1918

Abel Comstock Willcox passed away at his home in Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY] Sunday night in the full flower of his young manhood.  He was 34 years of age and leaves behind him a wife and three young sons who are now both fatherless and motherless.  Abel C. Willcox was born in Smyrna, the eldest son of Gardner N. and Sarah Comstock.  At a very early age he showed decided precocity in his studies and his easy and brilliant grasp of hard subjects was a source of speculation and wonder to his instructors. At the age of 17 he entered Cornell university and there was known as a "star" student.  He graduated from there with the highest honors and immediately entered upon the study of law in the College of the City of New York.  Before completing this course he was married to Miss Marion Smith of Ithaca who died last March after a year of terrible suffering.  To his wife in her last days, the husband gave tenderly and tirelessly of his time and strength.  He ministered to her needs as a mother would have done and never counted the price.  After being admitted to the New York bar, Abel Willcox practiced for a few years in Norwich then removed to Rochester where he became research lawyer for the Lawyers' Co-operative company there.  His own health broke down several years ago and he was obliged to get out of his confining work in Rochester.  He moved his family to Smyrna two years ago where he sought less arduous professional duties and more outdoor work. The automobile agency of G.N. Willcox and Son was formed and Mr. Willcox became demonstrator for their cars. The illness and death of Mrs. Willcox followed, leaving the three boys.  To them the father gave in the abundance of his beautiful love and affection.  Always kind, always cheery, always strong in the face of cruel adversity--he was the admiration of all those who knew the cross he so patiently bore.  Early in life he had taken the vows of the church and his character in truth seemed ever founded and modeled on that of his Heavenly Father.  Four weeks ago, Abel Willcox was united in marriage to Lydia Bartlett.  He shortly became a victim of the influenza scourge and after a vain but gallant fight, his tired body succumbed. A whole community will miss his quiet, unassuming presence; his family will miss the strong son, the beloved husband, the most understanding of fathers, the dearest of brothers.

Servant of God--well done!

Rest from thy loved employ;

The battle fought, the victory won.

Enter thy Master's joy.

 

 

 

 

William E. Harding, RR Engineer, 1900

William E. Harding

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1900

 

William E. Harding

1845 - 1912

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Everybody along the line of the Ontario & Western Railway knows "Bill" Haring, the oldest in term of service and one of the jolliest engineers on the road.  Mr. Harding completed 30 years in the employ of the company Monday and ever since has been growing fat on the congratulations and well wishes of his myriad of friends.  Only one other engineer on the road contends with Mr. Harding for first palce and that is "Ed" McNiff, of Middletown. They entered the employ of the company only four or five days apart.  Mr. McNiff having the start, but he has since been employed by another company for six months, while Mr. Harding has been with this road continuously since June 11, 1870.  For 19 years his run has been between Oneida and Norwich, first on an accommodation train and later on the milk, running daily between these points.  He has never had an accident of any account.

 

Mr. Harding is a native of England and was born in Somersetshire March 4, 1845.  At the age of 14 he came over to Canada, where he lived for about four years before he dropped down into New York State, and in August, 1863, began braking for the Rome & Watertown road.  Two years later he became a fireman on the Oswego & Rome road and at the end of three years went home to England for a twelvemonths' visit, returning in the spring of 1870, accompanied by his parents.  On June 11 he began firing an engine for the then New York & Oswego Midland, now the Ontario & Western.  On March 7 of the following year he was given charge of an engine. He had several years of interesting experience as an engineman on the old Auburn branch during its palmist days, when wood was used as fuel and locomotives were far from the perfect machines they are today.  His has been a remarkable record, but is nothing more than his faithful skill and jolly good nature deserves.

 

Mr. Harding is a member of the Oswego Division, No. 152, Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers.  He is also a member of Oswego lodge, No. 127, F.& A.M., and a Royal Arch Mason and a Knight Templar.  He is one of the most popular men anywhere on the line of the road.

 

____________________________________

 

Funeral

Oswego Daily Times, September 11, 1912

 

The funeral of the late William E. Harding was held this afternoon at 3:30 from his late residence, the rev. George h. Young conducting the services. The bearers were from Oswego Lodge, No. 1278, F.&A.M. and from the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers of the O.&W. Interment was at Riverside cemetery.

Obituaries (March 24)

John Wager Touey

Utica Saturday Globe, November 1900

 

John Wager Touey

ca 1848 - 1900

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  After a long illness from a complication of diseases from which he had suffered for 10 or 12 years, John W. Touey died at the home of his mother, Mrs. John Touey, in King's Settlement on Saturday last, aged about 52.  Mr. Touey was born in King's Settlement and educated in the Norwich schools.  He learned the printers' trade in the office of the Chenango Telegraph and Chronicle, under Kingsley & Berry, and while a young man went to New York to strike out for himself.  He secured a situation on the Commercial Advertiser, under Hugh Hastings, 32 years ago, but only remained for a few years when with others he organized a stock company and engaged in publishing the Shoe and Leather Reporter, of which he was managing editor for 18 years, or until incapacitated by illness.  He has since made his home with his mother at King's Settlement.  Mr. Touey was a leading member of the famous Typographical Union, No. 6, whose struggles in behalf of the craft are familiar in the minds of many.  He was popular among his fellow craftsmen and numbered among his personal friends many prominent people, among them Gen. Grant. The funeral services were held from St. Paul's Church on Monday morning at 10 o'clock, burial being made in St. Paul Cemetery [Norwich, NY]. The aged mother of deceased survives and three sisters out of a family of seven children, Mrs. Ella Richmond, of Buffalo, and Miss Mary Touey and Mrs. William Tiffany, of Norwich.  A soldier brother, Lieut. Timothy Touey, is buried in Chicago.

 

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, December 1, 1900

The current number of the Shoe and Leather Reporter with which the late John W. Touey was formerly connected ahs the following:

 

Word comes to us from the little hamlet of King's Settlement, near Norwich, Chenango county, N.Y., that John W. Touey, who for a long term of years prior to 1888 was connected with the Reporter in a responsible editorial capacity, ahs passed away.  Mr. Touey has been living in retirement with his relatives at that place for 12 years.  He was a man of remarkable attainments in many ways, which with industry and perseverance should have won for him a very high place in American journalism.  His old associates remember him with feelings of sincere affection, and he was known and highly esteemed by members of the New York leather trade, some of whom have passed away.  Mr. Touey was of Irish extraction and the charm of the wit and naïve philosophy which is so abounding in the Irish nature was extraordinarily developed in him.  He conducted for years the "Phosphorescence" column of The Reporter, which gleamed each week with the kindly, persuasive humor of which he was so thorough a master.  His work was highly regarded.  It was copied extensively into the daily papers, and many of our readers, although they had never met him, felt a personal attraction to our departed friend.  The "Phosphorescence" department, after his departure in 1888, had a precarious existence, and was finally abandoned.  It practically died with him, like the "Easy Chair" in Harper's Magazine, with the death of George William Curtis.  Mr. Touey was one of those "characters" so abounding in originality and hearty good cheer that he was welcome everywhere.  Many of his expressions are yet current in our New York office, where he was once so important a factor.  He enjoyed the cordial esteem and friendship of our late editor, Isaac H. Bailey, who appreciated in no light degree the sparkle, the luminous intellect, that has paid nature's last penalty.

 

Mrs. John Ray Clarke

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, December 6, 1902

Mrs. John Ray Clarke, who formerly resided at Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] and was well known to many Norwich and Chenango county friends, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Charles M. Stone No. 55 Main street, Binghamton, Sunday evening, November 30, 1902, at 8:30 o'clock.  The Binghamton Republican says Mrs. Clarke who was seventy-five years of age, has been a resident of this city since 1874 when she moved here from her birthplace in Oxford.  Since the death of Mr. Clarke, several years ago, Mrs. Clarke has done much for church and charity work in this city, having given liberally for many benevolent enterprises many of which acts she has modestly kept from becoming public, the gifts being announced as simply coming form "a friend."  It was largely due to her contributions that the beautiful Trinity Memorial church was built. She has always been one of the most active and liberal members of that church.  Mrs. Clarke has been troubled for some time with heart difficulty, and to this is attributed her death.  The Oxford Times says Deceased was born in Oxford, September 11, 1827, and was the only surviving child of the late James A. Glover. Aside from four years' residence in Buffalo, where Mr. Clarke was in business for a time, she spent her life here until their removal to Binghamton. She kept up her acquaintance through visits here and hospitalities extended at her own home, to an extent that her loss will be felt by a large circle of relatives and friends. She loyally co-operated with her lamented husband in laying out his philanthropic plans and was permitted to live to carry them out after death had relentlessly deprived him of that high privilege.  Oxford Memorial library has a testimonial of her thoughtfulness and bounty in the beautiful upright clock which adorns its walls. The funeral of Mrs. Clarke was held Wednesday afternoon from Trinity Memorial church, Binghamton. The church was crowded with friends and relatives. The Rev. Dr. J.H. LaRoche officiated assisted by Rev. J.M. VanIngen of Millburn, N.J., a  nephew of the deceased.  Mrs. Georgia Moore Doughty sang "The Holy City" and "These are They Which are Arrayed in White Roses."  Various religious and benevolent organizations with which Mrs. Clarke had been identified during her long and useful life, sent flowers. These were the Charity Aid, the Women's Auxiliary, the King's Daughters and the Sunday school, also the King's Daughters of Lestershire, and the City Union of King's Daughters. The Secure Mutual life insurance company sent a wreath, as also did the employees of the John Ray Clarke company.  Besides these there were many beautiful floral pieces from individuals.  Bishop Frederick D. Huntington was in attendance at the funeral and took a part in the service.

 

Frankie Sweet

Otsego Journal, September 21, 1887

Frankie Sweet, whose serious illness we mentioned last week, died on Tuesday last.  the cause of his death being said on Wednesday attended by Drs. Jacobs of this place, and Winans and Allaben of Gilbertsville.  The disease was found to have been acute peritonitis.  He died at the house of Geo. Cornell, where Mr. Sweet has made his home for some time past and where he had the best of care during his illness.  The funeral was largely attended from the Baptist church on Thursday, the officiating clergyman being Rev. Mr. Remington, of the Mills, assisted by Rev. L.B. Weeks. The burial was at Morris [Otsego Co., NY].

 

 

 

 

Obituaries (March 23)

Alice Ryan

Utica Saturday Globe, November 1900

 

Alice Ryan

ca 1866 - 1900

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  There are many who will miss the kindly salutation, sunny disposition and ready wit of Alice Ryan, who died at the residence of Frederick Mitchell in Mitchell street on Friday of last week after a brief illness of pleura-pneumonia.  Miss Ryan was born in County Tipperary, Ireland, about 34 years ago and came to America 12 years since.  She lived with her grandparents at Lamb's Corners until their death and later at the home of Daniel Reidy in Preston for about a year before coming to Norwich about 10 years ago to make her home at the Mitchell residence.  She was highly esteemed by her employers and by a host of friends.  She was a devout adherent of the Catholic faith.  Her funeral was held from the residence of her brother, John H. Ryan on Rexford street, Monday at 7:30 and from St. Paul's Church at 8 o'clock, Rev. Father Hart officiating.  Besides her brother, Miss Ryan leaves a sister, Mary Ryan, residing in Norwich, and two cousins, Kate Ryan, of Norwich, and Cornelius Ryan, of North Norwich.  Her parents, six sisters and a brother reside in Ireland. The bearers, who accompanied the remains to Binghamton for burial, were James Griffin, William Ryan, John Scanlon, John  Reddin, Cornelius Ryan and James Gallagher.  Among the out-of-town friends in attendance were an aunt, Mrs. Matterson, of Cortland, Mrs. Mary Ryan and daughter, Mame, of Lestershire, Miss Nellie Dwyer, Mrs. John Devitt and Miss Winifred Hogan, of Binghamton.  One of the many beautiful floral tributes was a pillow from the ladies' auxiliary of the A.O.H. of which Miss Ryan was a faithful member.

Willis Eugene Richmond

Chenango Union, July 17, 1879

The remains of Willis Richmond, who departed this life Monday morning of last week, were interred in our village cemetery on Tuesday afternoon last.  Mr. Richmond was a young gentleman, respected, and well liked by all who knew him.  Some six or seven years since he traveled in the west, where he remained about a year, and where he contracted the disease which, after several years of patient suffering, called the weary traveler home.  He was prepared to go at any moment, having dreamed a few nights before his death at what time he would die, and strange to relate, his death occurred exactly as he had dreamed.  He dreamed he would die upon the noon of the 7th and be buried on the 11th; but owing to the state of the weather, and other causes, his remains could not be preserved longer than the 8th.  The funeral took place from the residence of his father, Joseph Richmond, and was well attended.  A long procession followed the remains to their last resting place, and paid the last tribute of respect to the honored dead, departing for home a sad and solemn people. trusting the departed one is now with his kindred and friends who have preceded him to that better land.

Benjamin J. Rowe

Chenango Union, June 28, 1888

B.J. Rowe died at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James Rowe, in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], June 17th, after a short but painful illness frthat dread disease, consumption.  He was about to complete a course of study in the State normal School at Cortland.  He was a young man of more than ordinary culture, a successful teacher and most earnest student. The one great study, of his useful life was the improvement of schools, and he hoped by incessant study one dya to occupy a high position in an institution of learning; but he was called to a higher and nobler work.  He lived a pure, upright life, one which could admit of no reproach.  He was one of those few who have no enemies.  The death of such a person is keenly felt by many relatives and  a large circle of friends.  His last hours were those of peace.  God had filled his soul with wonderful peace, joy, holy triumph and visions of immortal life.  Those who witness such a death can but say reverently "Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord."  Funeral services were held Tuesday at 11 A.M.  A large assemblage of mourning friends and relatives gathered to pay their last tribute of respect to the beloved and honored dead.  Rev. L.C. Hayes spoke words of comfort and consolation to the bereaved parents, who have truly lost a noble son.

Earth has lost a true and earnest Christian,

Heaven has gained a saint

One who has led a life true and noble,

Free from sin's dark taint.

When death's dark angel came

It found him waiting to receive the crown of life

At the blessed Savior's throne above.

The victory won, for ended now is life's great strife.

We hope to join the ransomed army

When the storms of life are o'er.

And then to clasp his hands rejoicing,

And praising God on that eternal shore.

Guilford, N.Y., June 23, 1888                    Lulu R. Shelton

 

John B. Rogers

Chenango Union, June 28, 1888

John B. Rogers died at Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY], Tuesday evening of last week, in the ninety-third your of his age.  He was born at the Forks, where he spent his whole life and died.  For many years he was the merchant of the little hamlet and was a noted raftsman, commencing when fifteen years old, running lumber to Baltimore and walking all the way back.  He held the office of postmaster for many years.  His wife died twelve years ago, but they celebrated their golden wedding before her decease.  Mr. Rogers was highly esteemed by his neighbors.

 

Obituaries (March 22)

Lavina (Baker) Gibbs

Utica Saturday Globe, November 1900

 

Lavina (Baker) Gibbs

1801 - 1900

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. Lavina Gibbs, whose death occurred at North Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] on Wednesday, November 7, came of a long-lived race.  Her father and mother each lived to be 94 and a brother died at 96.  Her father, Joseph Baker, was born in Marlborough, Eng., October 21, 1755.  In 1774 he enlisted in the British army, before the revolution and after the uprising of the American colonists was sent to America under Burgoyne, with whom he surrendered at Saratoga in 1777 and at the close of the war cast in his lot with the victorious patriots.  In 1788 he married Lavina Keyes and made a home at Princetown, Mass., where five children were born, of whom the subject of this sketch was the last.  She was born October 10, 1801, during the latter part of John Adams' administration and before the election of Thomas Jefferson, when the United States consisted of the original 13 colonies.  The limits of her life very nearly covered the years of the 19th century.  In 1825 Lavina Baker became engaged to marry John Gibbs.  He drove from Massachusetts to North Guilford in this county, cleared a space in the woods and built a house near Van Buren's Corners.  Returning the way he came to Princetown he claimed his bride and drove back with her to their new home. The marriage occurred September 17, 1826, and the romantic honeymoon trip covered a distance of nearly 300 miles from Princetown, near Boston, by way of Albany to North Guilford.  Here, 74 years ago, her married life began when the friendly Indian roamed at will through the country and here she lived while three generations grew up about her.  She survived her husband and saw six of her seven children laid away after they had reached manhood and womanhood, married and presented her with grandchildren.  Mr. Gibbs died February 11, 1884, after 58 years of happy married life, aged 86.  During her declining days she made her home with her only surviving son. She displayed remarkable activity even until the day of her death. She knew no disease, but wearied at last, her life's long day ended, she sank into sweet and restful sleep.  Her funeral took place on Saturday at 11 o'clock in the morning at Congregational Church at Van Buren's Corners.

 

Morning Sun, Norwich, NY, November 14, 1900

The life of Mrs. Lavina Gibbs whose death was noted in our last issue, was almost exactly coincident with the beginning and ending of the nineteenth century. She was born October 10, 1801, and died November 7, 1900, at the age of 99 years and 28 days. 

 

Hiram A. Reynolds

Otsego Journal, April 9, 1908

Hiram A. Reynolds died at his home across the river from Rockwell's Mills, on Monday, April 6, after an illness of about ten days.  He was the oldest of three brothers, sons of Sullivan Reynolds, and was born in Rockwell's Mills, December 15, 1841.  In 1852 the family moved upon the farm, which has since been the Reynolds homestead and the home of the subject of this sketch.  Surviving he leaves his wife and one brother, E.S. Reynolds, of Norwich, the other brother, H.W. Reynolds, died a few years since in Chicago and was brought here for burial on the family lot at White Store [Chenango Co., NY].  Mr. Reynolds was highly esteemed as a citizen and had many friends whose sympathies are with the family in this bereavement. The funeral will occur from the house on Thursday at 1:30 p.m. 

Seth Richmond

Chenango Union, June 12, 1879

Seth Richmond, one of the pioneers of the town of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], died on Saturday last, upon the farm near Rockwell's Mills, where he had resided for seventy-five years past.  he was born in Rhode Island, in 1790, and in 1804, when he was fourteen years of age, his father removed to Guilford, locating upon the farm where he spent his long and useful life. Deceased was a good citizen, having the confidence and respect of the community in which he had so long resided, and his memory will be cherished by a large circle of relatives and friends.  In politics, Mr. Richmond was a staunch Democrat, and for many years his name was upon the subscription books of the Norwich Journal, and later upon those of tis successor, the Union.

Seth Richmond died on Saturday night, June 7th.  He has been in failing health for some time, often saying, "I am ready to go any minute."  His long life of nearly ninety years became almost a burden at the last, though he retained his faculties perfectly.  A good man has fallen.

Death Notices

Chenango Union, August 12, 1875

WELLS:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], July 20th, Mrs. Betsey Wells, widow of the late Reuben Wells, aged 60 years.

BANCROFT:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], August 9th, Rev. Allen Bancroft, aged 61 years and 18 days.

ORMSBY:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], July 24th, James B. [Ormsby], son of Dr. Byron J. and Mary L. Ormsby, aged 1 year, 10 months and 22 days.

BURKE:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], August 1st, Mr. Richard D. Burke, aged 64 years.

MARSHMAN:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], August 3d, Mrs. Gertrude Marshman, aged 79 years.

HOYT:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], July 27th, Eliza Ann [Hoyt], widow of the late Rev. John B. Hoyt, aged 79 years.

 

 

Archie D. Gibbs, 1875 - 1948

Archie D. Gibbs, of Norwich

Utica Saturday Globe, November 1899

 

Archie D. Gibbs

1895-1948

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  A late addition to the bar of Chenango county is Archie D. Gibbs, who successfully passed the bar examination at Syracuse on October 17 last and was sworn in before the Appellate Division, Third Department, in Albany, November 14.  No young man in Norwich has entered upon his chosen calling with brighter prospects or with a larger share of well wishes for his success.

 

Mr. Gibbs was born October 16, 1875, on his father's farm in North Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], and first attended school in district No. 16, in the "little red schoolhouse," which is the counterpart of so many such school houses in Chenango county.  In 1890 he entered the ninth grade of the High School and in 1895 he graduated in the Latin, English and German course. He acquired a reputation as a humorous speaker and took third prize in competition in '94 with a humorous selection. At the class day exercises in '95 he was class humorist.  In the fall of 1895 he entered Cornell University in the scientific course, and after completing one year's work in that course entered the College of Law, graduating in 1898 with the degree of L.L.B.  In the summer of 1898 he entered the law office of Howard D. Newton and remained there until January, 1899, when he went to Albany as one of the general Assembly stenographers assigned to Hon. Jotham P. Allds.  Since the close of the last Legislature he has been clerk and private secretary to Mr. Allds, in whose office he has taken up quarters to practice his profession for the present.  Last February he was elected justice of the peace to succeed William  H. Sullivan, and will assume the duties of the office January 1, 1900.

 

___________________________________

 

Obituary

Chenango Union, February 19, 1948

 

Archie Dana Gibbs, lawyer and Chenango county election commissioner since 1911 died early Monday in Chenango Memorial Hospital where he had been a patient since December 26.

 

Attorney Gibbs was born at North Guilford October 16, 1875, the son of Joseph B. Gibbs and Mae E. Westcott.  His birthplace was the farm cleared and settled by his grandfather, John Gibbs, in the early 1820s.

 

Mr. Gibbs' early education was in district school number 16 of the town of Guilford, attending there until the fall of 1890 when he entered the ninth grade of Norwich high school, presided over by the late Mina Blackman.  He was graduated in 1895 and entered Cornell university on a competitive scholarship in the fall of that year.  After a year in general study he entered the law college of Cornell and was graduated with the degree of L.L.B. inn June 1898.

 

In the winter of 1899, Mr. Gibbs accepted a position as stenographer of the state assembly ways and means committee presided over by Hon. Jotham P. Allds.  He continued with the late Mr. Allds, after his election as state senator, through the winter of 1904.  In May, 1904, Mr. Gibbs took the position of stenographer of the Chenango county surrogate's court under the late Judge Albert F. Gladding and held this position until January, 1908.  In February of 1908 he was appointed special county judge by Governor Charles E. Hughes but failed of election in the fall of 1909.  During the legislative session of 1909 Mr. Gibbs again went to Albany as clerk of the senate finance committee and in 1910 served as clerk for Mr. Allds, temporary president of the senate.  In the spring of 1909 Mr. Gibbs and Harry Ingram of Potsdam, were chosen by Andrew S. Draper, state commissioner of education, to prepare an analytical subject and section index of the consolidated laws of the state of New York. The consolidation at that time consisted of 4,547 pates of printed matter and the completed index made up a volume of 875 pages. This index was described as the most complete and comprehensive ever prepared.  However owing to the constant changes made in the state laws, the volume has now become obsolete.  It was in August 1919 that Mr. Gibbs was appointed the Republican member of the Chenango county board of elections and he held that position until this year when his retirement became effective after two time extensions had been granted by the state board of pensions.  Mr. Gibbs was noted as an authority on election laws and his administrative work with the board of elections brought him frequent praise from the New York state board of elections.

 

Mr. Gibbs was a member of Emmanuel Episcopal church and an active participant in the affairs of the parish.  He was a member and past master (1927) of Norwich lodge 302, F. and A.M. and in 1938 prepared a history of the three Masonic lodges which have existed in Norwich since 1804.  This volume of 114 pages contains not only a comprehensive history of the three lodges, but includes also much local history as a background, much of it obtained from original records and never before placed in print.  On June 26, 1901, Mr. Gibbs was married to Anna F. Eccleston, daughter of Charles G. and Minnie C. Eccleston of Oxford.

 

As an attorney-at-law, Mr. Gibbs specialized in titles of real estate and for about 10 years following 1923 was attorney for the Federal Land Bank of Springfield, Mass.  In 1933, he became attorney for the Chenango Cooperative Savings and Loan Association.  In both of these connections he searched hundreds of titles and was considered an authority and expert on the validity of land titles.

 

Besides his wife he is survived by a daughter, Elizabeth, now Mrs. Clark Metzger of this city; also a granddaughter, Miss Sallie Metzger.  Services were held at the Breese funeral home Wednesday morning at 10:30, Rev. Lloyd S. Charters, rector of Emmanuel Episcopal church officiating.  His body was placed in the Mt. Hope chapel vault [Norwich, NY] awaiting burial in the family plot in the spring.

 

Obituaries (March 21)

William J. Cozier

Utica Saturday Globe, November 1900

William Cozier

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  While hunting on East Hill Wednesday afternoon, Irving North discovered the dead body of William J. Cozier, a well-known local character, whose home was in a hut not far from where the body was discovered.  The body was lying face down in the edge of a chestnut grove and beside it lay two bottles, one of them containing kerosene and the other empty, but giving forth the odor of liquor.  Coroner Harris was at once notified and ordered the remains removed to the undertaking rooms of William Breese.  For a number of years Cozier had lived alone in the hut which was his home.  His boon companions were a horse and dog.  The latter was shot a few weeks ago by the Norwich police, having escaped the vigilance of his master while in the village and vented his vicious disposition upon a lady whose skirt he tore and then ruined a bicycle tire and was attacking a buggy top when his career was cut short by the police.  Grief over the death of his dog drove him into deeper dissipation and he was arrested and sent to jail.  He had not been seen in the village for several days and it is believed that while returning home he fell, was unable to rise and died from exposure.  Mr. Cozier was born in Lebanon, Madison county, about 68 years ago and while a young man came to Norwich and followed the life of a boatman on the Chenango canal. At the breaking out of the civil war he enlisted and was with Gen. McClellan in the peninsular campaign.  In 1862 he came home on sick leave and afterwards enlisted in Company H, Seventeenth New York Infantry, for the unexpired term of his enlistment, and then enlisted in Company L, Twentieth New York Cavalry.  For injuries received in the service he drew a pension and with this he purchased five or six years ago a plot of 10 acres of ground upon the top of the East Hill where he erected the hut which he made his home and lived with his horse and dog.  His appetite for liquor was his worst enemy.  The funeral was held from Breese's undertaking rooms on Thursday afternoon at 3, Rev. J.R. Edwards officiating, comrades of the G.A.R. acting as pall bearers.  Burial was made in the soldiers' plot in Mount Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY].  One brother H.H. Cozier, formerly of Norwich, now of Syracuse, survives and one married sister lives in Minnesota.

 

"Billy" Cozier No More

Morning Sun, November 15, 1900

William J. Cozier is no more.  His dead body was found in the edge of a piece of woods on the east hill yesterday afternoon by Irving North, a hunter.  North reported his find to Coroner Harris, who viewed the body and decided an inquest unnecessary. The body was transferred to Breese's undertaking rooms.  Cozier lived the life of a hermit in a hut near where his body was found.  He has been a familiar figure on the streets of Norwich for many years and within the memory of most people he has been known only as "old Billy."  His troubles were many and were mostly the result of his fondness for liquor.  He was an old soldier and has been an inmate off and on of the State Soldiers' Home at Bath.  Of late years he has been looked after by the poormaster of Norwich during the winter months.  "Billy" was last seen alive on election day.  It is presumed that on his way to his hut he fell, and died from exposure.  Two large bottles were by the side of his body.  One was filled kerosene and the other empty....

 

Chenango Union, November 17, 1900

"Billy" Cozier was a familiar figure in Norwich.  He was born in the town of Lebanon, Madison county, and came to Norwich before the war.  He first enlisted in the Eighty third N.Y. Infantry, and later was transferred to Company H., Seventeenth Infantry.  He was discharged from service for disability, but later re-enlisted in the Twentieth N.Y. Cavalry, and served to the close of the war.  He made a good soldier, as many will testify, and drew a pension with which he managed to live his lonely and friendless life.  Away up on east hill, in a little old log hut back in the woods, with no companions but his horse, his hens and his dog, he made his home, he having purchased and paid for out of his pension money some 12 acres of land.  Winters he had lately spent at the Soldiers' home at Bath, or at the county home at Preston.  he was a harmless sold fellow, fond of his cups, to which all of his misfortunes of life could doubtless be traced.  His pleasant salutation of "nice day." with which he always greeted those he met, whatever the weather, will be heard no more.  One brother, H.H. Cozier of Syracuse, formerly of Norwich, and a sister in the west, survive.  H.H. Cozier, while residing in Norwich, had often tried to care for his unfortunate brother, but was met with a firm refusal.  He came to Norwich at once upon learning of his brother's death, and made arrangements for the funeral, which was held from Breese's undertaking rooms Thursday afternoon. Burial was made in Mt. Hope.

 

Charles Henry Evans

Norwich Sun, October 18, 1928

Charles Henry Evans, an aged and highly respected citizen, passed away Sunday, October 14 at the home of his son, Bert M. Evans.  Mr. Evans was born in Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY] December 12, 1846, the son of Albert and Deborah (Cooper) Evans.  He was married in Guilford, July 8, to Miss Ella Mills by the Rev. J.L. Jones, then pastor of the Guilford Center Presbyterian church. Three children came to bless this union, two now living, one son, Bert M. Evans of this place and a daughter, Mrs. Laura Gadsby of Oneonta.  One daughter, Mrs. Grace Johnson preceded him across death's sea.  For the past six years he has been confined to his room with rheumatism having been affectionately cared for by a loving son and daughter-in-law in all these years of severe suffering. Through all he was a patient child of God trusting in the Father of all. As a father, his sweet home life and indulgence to loved ones will long linger in their hearts.  Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock at his late home by the Rev. Cecil Plumb, pastor of the Guilford Presbyterian church. Burial was in the White Store cemetery [Chenango Co., NY] beside loved ones. Those who survive are the son, Bert Evans and a daughter, Mrs. Laura Gadsby, above mentioned, and five grandchildren, Myrtle and Russell Evans of Guilford, Edna Gadsby of Oneonta, Theodore Johnson of Batavia and Rose Johnson.

 

Zoa Louise Evans

Norwich Sun, June 4, 1936

Mrs. Zoa Louise Evans died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Henry D. Morse, in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], about 4 o'clock Wednesday afternoon.  She was born in Riverdale, Ohio, in 1855  The deceased spent her girlhood in Wilmington, N.C., but was united in marriage in Brooklyn and lived there for many years.  Her husband died in Guilford in July 1925.  Mrs. Evans was an accomplished artist and was active in charitable work. She had been ill three months.  Besides Mrs. Morse she is survived by three other children, Alfred Evans of Riverside, Conn., Dr. John N. Evans of Brooklyn and Geo. C. Evans of Crenford, N.J., also six grandchildren. The remains will be taken to Brooklyn for funeral services and burial in Evergreen cemetery at Brooklyn.

Harold C. Brooks of Norwich, NY - 1900

Harold C. Brooks

Utica Saturday Globe, November 1900

 

Harold C. Brooks

1881 - 1929

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  His many Norwich friends are pleased to know that Harold C. Brooks, who less than three months ago entered the National Conservatory of Music in New York, is scoring unwonted success in his chosen work.  Harold, who is an only son of Mr. and Mrs. P.L. Brooks, and is just approaching 19 years of age, has always shown a love for music and an especial fondness for the violin. Two years ago he took a brief course in instruction under Prof. M.C. Griswold and showed such readiness in reading and aptness in rendering difficult selections that his extraordinary talent was evident and was considered well worthy of higher cultivation. September 1, he was admitted to the conservatory, and in addition to his study of harmony and composition and the history of music took up courses in German and French.  His exceptional talent was soon recognized, and for several week she has been a member of Horner's orchestra, which plays regularly at the Star Opera House.  Last Saturday night he made his first public appearance in solo in a concert given at the Metropolitan Temple before an audience of 2,000, and was most enthusiastically received and rapturously encored.  His second selection was received with even more favor than his first and he was applauded to the echo.  On Sunday following he assisted at the evening service in one of the city churches.  He writes home modestly of his success, the extent of which was more fully described in a letter from a friend residing in the city.  It is apparent that a brilliant future lies before him.

_______________________________

 

Obituary

Norwich Sun, May 27, 1929

 

Funeral services for Harold C. Brooks, of Henry Street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], who died at Chenango Memorial Hospital at 6 o'clock Saturday night, will be held from the Breese funeral parlors at 2 o'clock Tuesday afternoon, Rev. J.R. Beckwith of Greenridge, Pa. cousin of the deceased, officiating.  Interment will be made in Mt. Hope cemetery [Norwich, NY].  Mr. Brooks had been a patient at the hospital for more than two weeks and less than 24 hours before his death was said to have improved.  He was best known as an engraver, and in this line of work he had few equals.  The deceased was born in Norwich Jan. 15, 1881 and this city had always been his home, aside from brief periods of time spent in New York city, Ithaca and elsewhere when he was employed at his trade. Mr. Brooks was an expert engraver, and soon after his education had been finished in the local schools he took up the study of designing and engraving.  For a time he was employed by the Norwich Pharmacal Company, and later he became one of the staff of engravers employed by Tiffany in New York city.  He also held like positions in Ithaca and elsewhere but more recently had conducted a studio for himself.  Mr. Brooks was also a violinist and had studied in Italy.  he was best known for his workmanship as an engraver, and there are many pieces of jewelry and silver engraving in Norwich that are testimonials to his skill and art.  His death removes the last member of his family, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. P.L. Brooks, long residents of this city, having passed away. There survive an aunt, Mrs. Ida Beckwith of McDonough and a cousin, Rev.  J.R. Beckwith of Greenridge, Pa.

Obituaries (March 20)

William Edmond Reed

Utica Saturday Globe, July 1900

 

William Edmond Reed

1843-1900

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  William Edmond Reed, a prominent citizen and former leading merchant, died at his home on Hayes street at an early hour Thursday morning, after a protracted illness.  In 1867 Mr. Reed came to Norwich and entered into partnership with John O. Hill and Theodore Hill in the dry goods business, under the firm name of John O. Hill & Co., which for years conducted one of the leading mercantile establishments between Binghamton and Utica.  The firm began business in the old wooden store on the east side of Broad street, now occupied by William Smith's shoe store, and in 1875 moved into the large and substantial brick block which they built at the corner of Broad and West Main streets.  Mr. Reed survived both of his partners.  He retired from active business in 1886, but had since maintained an office, attending to his many and varied business matters.  For the past year or more, illness had confined him to the house much of the time.  Mr. Reed was born in northeast, Dutchess county, N.Y., May 6, 1843.  He was a son of William B. Reed, who had business interests in Norwich many years ago.  His mother was Mary Ann Dakin.  He was educated at Amenia Seminary.  He left the family homestead in 1867 and came to Norwich at the age of 24.  In the same year he married Mary Bushnell, of Salisbury, Conn., who, with two daughters, Mrs. J.B. Turner and Mrs. R. Curtiss Chapman, and one grandson, Master William Reed Turner, survives him.  Mr. Reed was for many years a trustee of the First Congregational Church and was a director of the National Bank of Norwich at the time of his death.  He was a prominent Mason.  His funeral will be held from his late home, on Hayes street, at 4 o'clock on Saturday afternoon.

 

Mary Bushnell Reed

Norwich Sun, February 14, 1934

Mrs. Mary B. Reed died early Wednesday morning at the Chenango Memorial Hospital where for the last six months she had been a patient.  Mrs. Reed was born at Salisbury, Conn. on Feb. 29, 1844. She was the daughter of Albert Bushnell and his wife, Ann Lee.  Descended from old New England colonial families, her ancestry gave her membership in the Mayflower Society of the state of Connecticut, as well as the Captain John Harris chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, of which chapter she was a past regent.  On Oct. 9, 1847 Mary Bushnell was married to the late William Edmond Reed, well remembered as one of the prominent merchants of this city.  The marriage ceremony was performed on Iona Island in the Hudson river.  Immediately after the wedding the couple came to Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] where Mr. Reed became a member of the firm of John O. Hill and Co., merchants.  Mrs. Reed, altho for the past years an invalid, was during the active years of her life prominent in many good works in this community.  She was for many years a member of the board of directors of the Chenango Valley Home for Aged People, also for many years an active member of the board of women managers of the Chenango Memorial Hospital. She brought her church membership from the historic old Congregational church of Salisbury and became an active worker and teacher in the Congregational church of this city.  Her husband, William E. Reed, died in 1901 [sic].  Mr. and Mrs. Reed were the parents of two daughters, both residents of the city. The elder daughter Mary Bushnell Reed, wife of J.B. Turner of this city, recently died in June, 1933.  Mrs. Reed thus leaves two grandsons W.R. Turner and John B. Turner, both residents of this city.  Mrs. Reed's younger daughter, Fanny, is the wife of R.C. Chapman of this city, and her daughter, Mrs. Clark Belden of Cambridge is the third grandchild of Mrs. Reed surviving. Six great grandchildren survive, the children of W.R. and John B. Turner of Norwich.  Funeral services are Friday at 2:30 p.m. at the residence of her daughter, Mrs. Chapman, 48 South Broad street, committal at Mt. Hope cemetery.  Service will be private and friends are requested to omit flowers.

 

Emily (Wells) Edwards

South New Berlin Bee, January 30, 1897

In this town, Mrs. Emily Wells, wife of Aaron Edwards, died at her home Sunday morning Jan. 17th, in the 51st year of her age, of consumption.  Funeral services conducted by Rev. Mr. Clark of Norwich. Burial in Evergreen cemetery at White Store [Chenango Co., NY].  Mrs. Edwards leaves a husband, two sons and five daughters to mourn the loss of a very affectionate wife and mother.  She has been a great sufferer for several months and has been very tenderly cared for by her family; her eldest daughter, Mrs. Edwin R. Curtis, South New Berlin, was with her much of the time during the last of her sickness; also her only sister, Mrs. Martha Stratton.  Her gentle unassuming ways and kindness to all with whom she had dealings will always be remembered.

 

Josephine Edwards

Otsego Journal, July 11, 1918

The funeral of Mrs. Edwards occurred from her late home at Rockwell's Mills [Chenango Co., NY] on Friday last at 2:30 p.m.  It was attended by many of her old friends and neighbors and a considerable number of relatives. The family had resided at the Mills for fifteen years, during which deceased had formed many friendships.  She is survived by her husband E.C. Edwards, to whom her loss is hard indeed to bear, also by one son Ivan and one daughter, Mrs. Frank Johnson.  One daughter, Mrs. Edith Bailey, died in 1912. She is also survived by several grandchildren. The service was conducted by Rev. W.D. Lathrop, assisted by Rev. W.D. Clough, of the Baptist church. The burial was in Evergreen cemetery, White Store [Chenango Co., NY], by the side of her daughter, Mrs. Bailey, mentioned above.

 

Rockwell's Mills:  The wife of E.C. Edwards, of Rockwell's Mills, died July 3rd, of cerebral hemorrhage at 4 o'clock a.m., aged 66 years.  She was a woman of vivacious and social nature which won her many friends by whom she will be sincerely missed.  Her sympathy and aid for the sick or needy will be remembered by many.  Not in rugged health for years, yet her best efforts were used in planning and working for the interest and welfare of her family.

 

 

Post Listing March 13-19, 2017)

Listing of blog postings for the week of March 13-19, 2017

Marriages

Posted March 19, 2017

Dr. & Mrs. Lewis A. Rhodes (50th anniversary, 1900)

Marriage notices - 1875

     George T. Griffin - Ida M. Hadcock

     Edwin B. Clark - Joanna Hughes

     George W. Wooster - Mary Gaffney

     Charles Sticle - Addie Post

     C.M. Huntley - Arvilla F. White

     Terrence O'Riley - Margaret O'Neil

 

 

Obituaries

Posted March 13, 2017

Rufus E. Thompson (Norwich, 1900)

Mary A. (Williams) Thompson (Norwich, Binghamton, 1902)

Sarah Doolittle (White Store, 1921)

Posted March 14, 2017
Arthur C. Lewis (Norwich, Brooklyn, 1900) Photo
Mercy A. Luther (Pharsalia, 1900)
Charles H. Touey (Norwich, Chicago, 1900)
Harriet A. Nichols (Sherburne, Watertown, 1900

Posted March 15, 2017
Sally (Dimmick) Thompson (Norwich, 1900)  photo
Martha A. Benedict (Norwich, 1900
Nancy U. (Jones) Doolittle (Mt. Upton, 1886)
Isaac Thornton (McDonough, 1886)

Posted March 17, 2017
Dr. Frank S. Capen (Norwich, New Paltz, Buffalo, 1900)  photo
George Taylor (Pitcher, 1892)
Flora L. Goodwin (Plymouth, 1892)
George E. Pratt (Norwich, 1892)

Posted March 18, 2017
Myrtina Doyle (Norwich, 1900)   photo
Amanda (Phetteplace) Edmonds (Holmesville, 1892) 
Willis Dexter (North Norwich, 1892)
Death Notices - 1892
     Hannah Roberts (Greene)
     Augustus Aldrich (North Norwich)
     Lizzie Lloyd (Columbus)
     Hudson Chamberlin child (Afton)
     William B. Grover (Afton)
     Mrs. William B. Grover (Afton)

Posted March 19, 2017
Charles Ellsworth Levee (Norwich, South Plymouth, 1900)   Photo
Thomas F. Redmond (Utica, 1900)  Train accident
William Simpson (Carbondale, 1910)  Train accident
Dacre Kinnier (Smithville Flats, 1900)
 

 

Miscellaneous

Posted March 13, 2017

Rev. Henry F. Curtin of St. Paul's, Norwich, NY, 1900

Posted March 14, 2017
Some Men of the Hour, Norwich NY 1900:  Linn H. Babcock, Burton E. Reynolds, George H. Ruckteshler

Posted March 15, 2017
Edwin Morse Mystery Solved, 1899

Posted March 18, 2017
David Maydole Hammer Co. Employees, 1900

Posted March 17, 2017
William Alonzo Hoffman, 1878 - 1927,  young lawyer from Oxford, NY

Marriages (March 19)

Dr. & Mrs. Lewis A. Rhodes

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1900

Dr. Lewis A. & Martha E. (Wait) Rhodes

 

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Dr. and Mrs. Lewis A. Rhodes passed the 50th anniversary of their wedding on Thursday, May 31.  The event was fittingly celebrated by a reception arranged for them by their daughter, Mrs. J.C. Taylor, at her home on Hayes street.  A dinner was spread for the immediate relatives at 1 o'clock and from 2 o'clock to 6 an informal reception was held to which all friends were invited.  A large number called to extend greetings, many bringing gifts. Dainty refreshments were served. An appropriate poem was contributed by a lady friend who was prevented by illness from being present.  Among the guests were Mr. and Mrs. James Gifford and two daughters, Mrs. Burton and Mrs. Sharpe, of Oxford, Mrs. Emma Brant and Mr. and Mrs. Victor Winsor and three children, of Guilford.

 

Dr. Rhodes and Miss Martha E. Wait were married on the morning of May 31, 1850, at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel B. Wait, on Fair street, by Rev. Charles D. Burritt, then pastor of the Methodist church. After a wedding breakfast they started on a brief journey.  Returning to  Norwich they have ever since made their home here.  Four children have been born of the union of whom two daughters have died.  Besides the remaining daughter, Mrs. Taylor, an only son, Frank L. Rhodes, is living in Buffalo.

 

At the time of their marriage, Dr. Rhodes was studying dentistry with Dr. Summer.  He came to Norwich from Guilford two years before.  He was born in Ulysses, Tompkins county, 73 years ago.  Mrs. Rhodes came to Norwich with her parents in 1810 from North Adams, Mass.  She was born in Granville, Steuben county, N.Y., 72 years ago.  Mr. Rhodes is a prominent Odd Fellow and a 33d degree Mason and recently received one of the highest appointment in Scottish Rite Masonry.  Mrs. Rhodes has long been conspicuous in church and religious work. For 25 years she conducted a weekly meeting for the promotion of holiness, until her declining days made the tax upon her strength too severe.  In their different spheres they have become widely known and made many friends who congratulate them on their auspicious anniversary.

 

Marriage Notices

Chenango Union, April 15, 1875

 

GRIFFIN-HADCOCK:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], April 11, 1875, by Rev. W.H. Waldron, Mr. Geo. T. Griffin to Miss Ida M. Hadcock of Norwich.

 

CLARK - HUGHES:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], April 8, 1875, by A.F. Gladding, Esq., Mr. Edwin B. Clark of Hamilton [Madison Co., NY], to Miss Joanna Hughes of Norwich.

 

WOOSTER - GAFFNEY:  In Sidney Plains [Delaware Co., NY], April 6, 1875 by Rev. J.B. Morse, Mr. George W. Wooster to Miss Mary Gaffney, both of Guilford Centre [Chenango Co., NY]

 

STICLE - POST:  In East Afton [Chenango Co., NY], March 31, by Rev. A.B. Richardson, Mr. Charles Sticle of Masonville [Delaware Co., NY] to Miss Addie Post of Afton [Chenango Co., NY].

 

HUNTLEY - WHITE:  In German [Chenango Co., NY], March 24, 1875 by Rev. Webster, Mr. C.M. Huntley of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Arvilla F. White of German.

 

O'RILEY - O'NEIL:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], by Rev. Leudden, April 8, 1875, Mr. Terrence O'Riley to Miss Margaret O'Neil, of Sherburne.

Obituaries (March 19)

Charles Ellsworth Levee

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1900

 

Charles Ellsworth Levee

1867 - 1900

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Charles Ellsworth Levee died at his home on Plymouth street on Wednesday morning.  For nearly eight years, from July, 1891, to May, 1899, when he was obliged to give up his position, he was a bookkeeper for the David Maydole Hammer Company and was esteemed as a valued employee.  He had been confined to the house much of the time since, gradually failing.  The cause of death was consumption.  Mr. Levee was the son of John G. Levee, of Plymouth, and was born February 5, 1867.  He attended the Norwich High School and afterwards took a course in an Elmira business College.  February 8, 1888, he married Jesse Terrell, who with two sons, aged 9 and 3, survive him.  He also leaves a brother, Hayes C. Levee, of this village, and a sister, Caroline Levee, of Plymouth.  He was of a quiet, genial disposition and had a great many friends.  He was a prominent member of the Free Methodist Church.  His funeral occurred from his late residence this (Friday) afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. T.C. Givens officiating.  Burial was made at South Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

 

Thomas F. Redmond

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, June 1900

Thomas F. Redmond, a brakeman on the O.&W. railroad, fell from a car and was killed Monday night.  Redmond belonged to Conductor Keefer's crew, who has charge of the way freight between Utica and Randallsville.  The accident occurred about 6 p.m. while the train was running full speed near Solsville.  Redmond was walking on top of a freight car, when in some manner he fell or was thrown off.  Conductor Keefer happened to witness the accident and stopping the train, picked Redmond up and took him to the Solsville station.  He was apparently injured about the head and one of his feet.  He had fallen to one side of the track and consequently the cars did not run over him.  At the suggestion of a Solsville physician, the injured man was put aboard a special car and started for the Utica hospital; he died however as the train reached Clinton.  Redmond's home was in Utica [Oneida Co., NY].  He was unmarried and about 22 years of age.

 

William Simpson

Norwich Sun, April 1910

Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]:  William Simpson of Carbondale, 23, running as extra brakeman on a Delaware & Hudson coal train, was struck and instantly killed by a southbound freight train above this village at 5:25 o'clock Thursday morning.  His train, northbound, had taken the siding to let a fast northbound freight pass.  When the latter train had passed Simpson stepped over to the southbound track and was hit by the freight.

 

Dacre Kinnier

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, June 2, 1900

Dacre Kinnier, postmaster at Smithville Flats [Chenango Co., NY], died on the 25th day of May, 1900, at his home in that place.  He had been confined to the house for a little more than a month.  The last time he was away from home was to attend the Republican county convention, held at Norwich, April 13, 1900.  Heart trouble was the cause of his death.

 

Mr. Kinnier was born on the 28th day of May, 1838, in county Armah, Ireland, and came to this country with his parents in about the year 1854, and had since resided in Smithville, this county.  In the early part of the war of the rebellion he volunteered his services for the defense of his adopted country and entered the Twelfth regiment of New York Volunteers.  He was with McClellan in the "Peninsular campaign" until his capture by the Confederates at the battle of Gains' Mills.  For some time he was held within the walls of the old Libby prison at Richmond, Va., but was finally exchanged and returned to the Union forces.  For a long time after the war he was actively engaged in life and fire insurance business.

 

In Politics Mr. Kinnier was a strong Republican and a great party worker and was well known not only in Chenango county but throughout a large part of the state.  He figured in many political contests both in conventions and at the polls and was recognized as a shrewd and farsighted politician whose zeal for his friends and unbounded, and who faithfulness and fidelity to them was never questioned.  he had his faults like all other mortals, and was inclined to be somewhat harsh when dealing with his opponents or enemies and they were pretty sure to feel the full force of his political strength and influence.  With his friends, however, there was no limit to his kindness.

 

Socially, Dacre was a great man to meet and visit with.  He was a great reader, and well informed generally, and had almost an unbounded knowledge of history both ancient and modern.  He was kind hearted and liberal beyond his means and died a poor man.  All in all, he was a noble fellow.  he was never married and is survived by two brothers and a sister.  His funeral was held Sunday, May 27th, and was largely attended by people from Greene, German, McDonough, and other towns, including Hon. J.P. Allds, Silas W. Berry, John Bingham of Norwich, George I. Skinner of Albany and Charles Norton, postmaster at Bainbridge.