Marriages (May 20)

Mr. & Mrs. J.H. Bump

Norwich Sun, January 10, 1924

The 50th wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. J.H. Bump of Deposit was recently celebrated in the Community Hall, Guilford Center, a central gathering place for the friends and family.  Relatives and friends to the number of thirty-five from Cobleskill, Milford, Unadilla, Whitney Point, Binghamton, Greene and Walton gathered for the festivities of the day, R.K. Teller, an employer for a number of years of Mr. Bump spoke in a happy mood of the earlier days in Unadilla where the family formerly lived.  Readings by Mrs. Ella Slater, letters from absent loved ones and music, by the company made the day pass only too fast.  Mr. and Mrs. Bump were presented with a purse of $50 in gold.

Elopement

Chenango Union, July 8, 1875

Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]:  Elopements are getting to be epidemic in these parts.  The latest of these affairs, that no one can understand, occurred last week, the parties residing in the vicinity of South Oxford.  George Lawton, a church member, and farmer by occupation, and a person heretofore much respected, has left for parts unknown, with the wife of Samuel Hulbert, leaving his wife and five children behind.  The particulars of the affair we learn from a neighbor.  It seems that Mr. Hulbert and his wife worked on the farm for Lawton, and than an intimacy sprang up between him and Mrs. Hulbert. Saturday, the 26th ult., Lawton had his son carry Mrs. Hulbert to the depot at Coventry station, she giving out that she was going to visit a relative in Broome County, we believe.  On the following Monday, Lawton informed his family that he had got to go to Norwich on business of importance, and accordingly took the morning train at this station for that place, then returned on the first train south in the direction of that pursued by Mrs. Hulbert, since then nothing has been seen or heard of either party.  Investigations have revealed the fact that Lawton's best clothes were spirited away, and that Mrs. Hulbert had not been near the relative she started to visit.  Besides his wife and five children Lawton leaves behind his aged parents, the whole without means of support.  His farm is advertised to be sold at Sheriff's sale next month, a fact that may have had something to do with the elopement--Times

Marriage Notices

Chenango Republican, Oxford, NY, April 22, 1829

In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th isn't., by the Rev. Mr. Wells, Mr. Erastus P Smith, son of Samuel A. Smith, Esq., to Miss Betsy Mills

At the same time and place, by the same, Mr. William Hitchcock, to Miss Elsitha Mills.

Norwich Journal, August 7, 1822

 

Married at Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d ult. by Nhlo Hunt, Esq. Mr. Andrew Stafford, of Sherburne, to the amiable Miss Polly Bartlett of the same place.

Norwich Journal, September 11, 1822

Married in this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Spaulding, Mr. Ira Lincoln to Miss Harriet Gibson, both of this town.

Norwich Journal, September 18, 1822

Married on the 12th inst. by the Rev E. Andrews, Mr. John Seymour, of New York, to Miss Lucy Ann Perkins, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].

Obituaries (May 20)

James More
Norwich Journal, August 14, 1822

Drowned, in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on Sunday, the 28th of July, James More.  When he came to Bainbridge, he was from the north part Vermont.  He said was formerly from New Hampshire.  He was about 23 years of age.  On one of his arms the letters J.M. were stamped with India ink.  He was decently interred, by the citizens of that town.

 

James W. Thompson

Chenango Union, July 8, 1875

Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]:  It is with sadness that we are called upon to chronicle the death of Mr. James W. Thompson, a native, and for many years a respected resident of our town, who died, after a lingering paralytic affliction of the throat, while on a visit at his sister's, Mrs. Sheldon, in our town, on the 4th inst, aged about 55 years.  He and his wife removed in the spring of 1872, to Friendship, Allegany Co., N.Y. to be near their only child, the wife of A.H. Ingersoll, of that place.  But they were not permitted to remain long together, for Mrs. Ingersoll died soon after, and Mrs. Thompson, in June, 1874, leaving her husband, then in feeble health, soon to follow her.  He was an upright, industrious member of society, and respected by all who knew him.  His remains will be sent for interment to Allegany County.
 

George W. Heath
Otsego Journal, July 31, 1902

Geo. W. Heath, of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY] who had a leg amputated at the Oneonta hospital early in June, which was afflicted by gangrene, died at that institution last week Tuesday, aged 63 years.  Deceased was well known, having long been identified with the business interests of Unadilla and is survived by a daughter, Mrs. W.P. Mulford, of Unadilla, from whose residence the funeral was held Thursday afternoon, and a son, Thomas, residing in Fargo, N.D.

 

Oscar Jewell Thompson

Otsego Journal, July 31, 1902

Mr. Oscar Jewell Thompson of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], died on Tuesday, July 15th, aged 65 years.  He had been in failing health for a couple of years, but was severely ill for about six months before his death, his malady being cancer of the stomach.  Mr. Thompson was the son of Levi Thompson, and always lived on the home farm where he died.  Indeed, he was born and died in the very same room.  In 1859 he married Mrs. Caroline Gridley Harrison, a daughter of Mr. Willis Gridley of Guilford.  To them was born two children, Mrs. Willis Thompson of Sidney, N.Y., and Mrs. Ellen Albrecht of Guilford.  Mrs. Caroline Thompson died of lingering consumption in 1886.  About eight years after, Mr. Thompson again married, his second wife being Mrs. Frances Shaw of Windsor, N.Y. who survives him.  Mr. Thompson was a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and the local lodge attended his funeral, which was held at his late home on Thursday, July 17th.  He was buried in the cemetery not far from his residence, where lie the remains of his parents and his first wife.  Mr. Thompson at an early age united with the First Congregational church at Guilford Center, and died rich in faith, manifesting throughout his lingering illness a rare spiritual ripeness.  He will be remembered with much respect and esteem, and his family have the loving sympathy of the community--Rev. A.C. Salle, Guilford Centre.

 

Death Notices

 

Norwich Journal, August 7, 1822

Died, at the Lenox (Mass) on Monday, the 23rd of July, Mr. Solomon Jones, aged 67 years.

 

Norwich Journal, September 11, 1822

Died, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], at the residence of her Son, Henry, after a lingering and painful illness, Mrs. Elizabeth Snow, aged 57 years.

Chenango Union, December 3, 1874

The remains of William Spaulding, who was killed by the falling of a tree while chopping in the woods some four miles west of here, were taken by his brother to his home in Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], for burial, on the 23d last.  The deceased was a single man, some 35 years old, and employed at the time of his death in chopping cord wood for Mr. Lewis Anderson.

 

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, October 24, 1903

Mrs. Myra Stockwell who has been cared for the past year by her niece, Mrs. Foster Watkins, passed away Tuesday morning, October 19th, and the funeral was attended Thursday afternoon.  The burial was at Yaleville [Chenango Co., NY] where the most of her life was spent. She had reached and just passed her ninety-second birthday, and because of her long life, old friends and neighbors had all passed away, but Mrs. Stockwell was much respected by all who knew her.

 

Bruchausen Park, Norwich, NY - 1900

Bruchhausen Park

Utica Saturday Globe, July 1900

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:   movement is on foot to adorn the plot devised by the late Dr. Casper Bruchhausen for a public park. The success of the movement is assured by the fact of its having been undertaken by the ladies.  A meeting of those interested was held at the home of Mrs. James Packer on Division street on Wednesday evening and was largely attended.  An organization was formed to be known as the Bruchhausen Park Association, officers being chosen as follows:  President, Mrs. James Packer; Vice Presidents, Mrs. H.D. Mallory, Mrs. C.H. Zeorb, Miss Sarah l. Packer, Mrs. Dwight McNitt, Mrs. Jerome Sherwood, Mrs. H.N. Marenes, Mrs. Jonas Haynes, Miss Mary J. Griffin; Secretary, Mrs. W.J. McCaw; Treasurer, Mrs. Henry Hewitt.  At another meeting to be called by the president, it is expected that a large number of members will be enrolled and definite plans adopted.  Membership is not confined to any locality, but is open to all ladies in the village, who wish to lend their aid to the good work.

 

Dr. Bruchhausen, the donor of the property, died December 28, 1891.  Among the provisions of his will drawn February 4, 1888, and probated March 7, 1892, was one which the document relates he had had under consideration for a number of years--the establishment of a park in the lower portion of the village, a place for health, exercise, recreation, refuge and rest, and for that purpose he offered the plot, containing 188 square rods, running through from Division to Hale streets, a distance of 26 rods, and fronting eight rods on each street.  He suggested that the dwelling and barn on the northwest corner of the plot be removed and the whole area leveled, ploughed up and sowed with grass; that walks be laid out, the main path to be 10 feet wide and to run straight south from the middle of the north fence on Division street to the middle of the south fence on Hale street, with double iron gates at either end.

 

For the fences and gates he contributed the sun of $200.  The other fixtures he referred to the village treasury and private generosity and "particularly to the ladies who are always willing to lend their wits and hands to any good enterprise."  A further plan of ornamentation which he suggested provided for the laying out of paths and flower beds, the setting out of native trees and the erection in the midst of the park a Roman pagoda 16 feet in diameter and supported by iron pillars, roofed with tin and supplied with stone seats.  In time he thought there might be added to the decorations of the park the statues and busts of meritorious citizens.  Ball playing and bicycle riding was not to be permitted in this quiet retreat for weary mothers and children, tired laborers, mourners returning from the cemetery or others who sought rest and recreation.

 

Two years' time was allowed the trustees of the village to set the plan of the devisor in operation at the end of which time no essential measures appearing, the property should revert to the principal heir under the will, Mrs. Mary Ellen Burchard, and children. An appropriation was valid by the citizens and improvements made on the property which satisfied the heirs, who have promptly paid the bequest in accordance with the will.  A portion of the amount appropriated by the citizens still remains in the village treasury and it is understood is available for further improvement of the park.  The Park Committee of the Board of Village Trustees will co-operate with the ladies in their efforts to carry out the plan of the donor. The plot has been graded, seeded and fenced and the main path laid out through the middle four rows of maples set out and four iron benches placed within its borders.

 

A plan for the further adornment was prepared by the late Thomas Doughty, a local landscape gardener, several years since which provides for the laying out of paths and flower beds, etc., in accordance with the will and is viewed with favor as not entailing an excessive expense.  It is probable that a fountain in the center of the park will be substituted in place of the pagoda and the number of statues and busts of meritorious citizens to be added to the adornment will likely depend upon the individual contributions of the aforesaid meritorious citizens at least for some time to come. The present plans, which are indefinite as yet, will be simple and sensible enough so that all interested will be glad to lend a hand.

____________________________________________

 

Dr. Casper Bruchhausen

Obituary

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, December 30, 1891

 

 

Dr. Casper Bruchhausen

1806 - 1891

Utica Saturday Globe, July 1900

 

Monday morning, this venerable and widely known physician passed away.  His illness was brief.  Thursday he was up town and around the streets as usual.  Christmas Day he started to go to Oxford to visit his daughter.  He was too late for the train.  Returning home, he complained of feeling ill.  His ailment increased in severity and Sunday found him very sick. Suddenly Monday morning, the end came.

 

Casper Bruchhausen was born in Frankfort on the Main Prussia, August 25th, 1806, and was educated in Frankfort college.  His parents intended him for the priesthood and therefore he was thoroughly grounded in Greek, Latin and Hebrew.  He also spoke French and English beside his native German.  After graduation, he found himself in doubt about certain theological dogma and turned aside from theology to medicine.  Coming to the United States in 1839, he stopped in Philadelphia and entered upon the study of homeopathy with the eminent Dr. Charles Fredrick Hoffendahl, a graduate of the University of Berlin.  In 1840, his teacher removed to Albany and Dr. Bruchhausen went with him.  Later he studied with Dr. George W. Clark, of Hudson, and subsequently in New York was under the instruction of Drs. Fredrick Gray and A. Jerald Hull, who were then the principal practitioners of the homeopathic school in New York City.

 

In 1841, George W. Roberts, who through Dr. Hoffendahl had become acquainted with the homeopathic system of practice, removed from Troy to Greene.  He brought with him a case of homeopathic remedies.  He was frequently appealed to by his neighbors to administer his new medicines to them.  He saw an opening for a physician and wrote to young student Casper Bruchhausen and invited him to come to Greene.  In 1842, the latter accepted the invitation and in August of that year located in Greene.  Nine months later he removed to Oxford, where he remained for five years, and from there in 1848, he came to Norwich, where he has practiced his profession ever since.

 

He was a successful practitioner and though in the early years of his practice here he had to fight against the prejudice with which the then comparatively unknown homeopathic system had to contend, he successfully overcame all opposition and became a recognized and much sought after medical authority.  In manner he was always courteous and retiring but self-assertive.  He delighted in his books and spent hours in study. As a recreation, he took up poetry.  Many of his poetical productions were published in the local and other papers.  About twenty-five years ago he published "Georgikon, a Eulogy on Farming."  Subsequently he collected his poems into a volume which he printed under the title, "Rhymes for The Times."  Last year, he put forth another volume of later poems with the name, "Iduna."  Beside his poetical productions, he was a frequent contributor in prose to medical journals and contributed many learned articles to McClintook and Strong's encyclopedia.

 

In 1845 he was married to Miss Mary Leonard, of Coventry, and lived with her happily till August 15, 1883, when she departed this life.  He is survived by his adopted daughter, Ella, who is the wife of Mr. Fred Burchard, of Oxford.

 

His funeral will be attended from his late residence, Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock.  Rev. E.W Colloque, of Oxford, will officiate, assisted by rev. H .D. Stebbins.

 

 

Obituaries (May 19)

S.W. Smith

Chenango Telegraph, February 10, 1876

On Tuesday last S.W. Smith met his death in the following singular manner.  He was uncle to, and for the past five years, made his home with William Smith, on the Great Brook.  On the day mentioned in company with William he went to the woods for the purpose of drawing out hop poles, and was riding upon the bob sled, when William jumped off and ran a short distance ahead to pick out the road, and had not been gone over two minutes when returning he found his uncle with his head doubled down upon his breast under the sled, the team having stopped.  William pulled the sled over and got his uncle out, and bathed his head with water, but with the exceptions of one or two gasps, he showed no signs of life.  Upon examination it was found that his neck was broken.  He was 68 years of age.  How he came to get under the sled or in what manner his neck was broken is a mystery, as there was not a scratch or mark upon the body--New Berlin Gazette.

 

 Daniel H. Sumner

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, October 6, 1900

The body of the late Daniel H. Sumner, whose death occurred in Binghamton on Tuesday, arrived in Norwich yesterday afternoon.  Funeral services will be held from the residence of George W. Sumner on Henry street Friday at 10 a.m., and burial will be made at East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY].  Daniel H. Sumner was born at Butternuts [Otsego Co., NY], May 1, 1824.  He was for many years a prominent business man of this village.  For a time he ran what was called "the packet boat" on the canal, and also engaged in the livery business.  He was last engaged in the lumber business at Canisteo.  He had been gone from Norwich about 20 years.  Failing health necessitated his removal to state hospital at Binghamton, where he died.  He is survived by his widow, a daughter, Mrs. H.J. Felton of East Pharsalia, and son, George W. Sumner of Norwich also three brothers, Sherman of Pharsalia; Albert of Canisteo, and Dr. C.G. Sumner of this village.

Samuel A. Smith

Chenango Telegraph, March 30, 1864

SMITH:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 24th inst. after a lingering illness, Samuel A. Smith, Esq., aged 83 years.
Mr. Smith was an early settler in Fayette Township [Guilford, Chenango Co., NY], from Connecticut, and bore his part of the burden of felling and clearing the wilderness.  His strong good sense and personal integrity gave him the confidence of his fellow citizens and made him the frequent recipient of various town offices of Eastern and Guilford. For many years he was a member of the Board of Supervisors.  In 1816 he represented the county in the Assembly with James Houghtaling and Ebenezer Wakely.  He was again a member in 1820 with Thomas Humphrey and Samuel Campbell, as his associates.  He was elected Sheriff of the county in 1825, and in 1837 was appointed by Gov. Marcy a Commissioner of the U.S. Deposit Fund for this County  In 1848 he consented to stand as a candidate for congress that the friends of Van Buren and Free Soil might have a name to vote for.  Sheriff Smith, like the late Sheriff Robinson, was of the old school with old fashioned manners and old fashioned honesty.  He taught and followed the virtues of economy and frugality.  In all the trusts committed to his charge, whether as a private citizen or a public officer, he was faithful to the letter and scrupulously honest.  He leaves the odor of a good name to his family.

Since the above was put in type, we have received the following:  Mr. Smith was born in Salem, Connecticut, but removed to Guilford (then Oxford) in April of 1805, more than half a century since, and lived upon the farm he then purchased until the time of his death.  He was therefore one of the first settlers and oldest inhabitants of Guilford, and full identified with its early growth and history.  He took a prominent part in the erection of the town of Guilford, which was taken from Oxford in 1813, and was, it is believed, its first Supervisor. During his public life he was justice of the Peace 19 years; Supervisor 11; in 1817 and 1820 a member of the Legislature; was elected Sheriff in 1825; and appointed a Commissioner, in connection with Hezekiah Read, to loan the U.S. Deposit Fund. For the last few years he withdrew himself form the cares of active life, devoting his time to reading and social intercourse, and enjoying that competence which his early care and industry and gained.  It is believed he had the confidence of the people of his town, and of the county, as the above brief record will evidence, and an instance is not known when that confidence was misplaced or betrayed.  Possessed of strong native sense, coupled with honesty of intention, inflexibility of purpose, he seldom erred in arriving at just conclusions, or was swayed from his determination to do and pursue the right, remembering his accountability to his county and his God. But his work is done. He has been gathered to his fathers like a shock of corn fully ripe, leaving behind him the sweet remembrance, and the bright example of his life.

Obituaries (May 18)

Rev. Erastus P. Smith

Chenango Union, February 17, 1876

Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]:  The funeral of the Rev. Erastus P. Smith, who died after a short illness, on the 9th last, at Hamilton [Madison Co., NY], where he was located as pastor, took place in the Episcopal Church in our village, on the 12th, and was attended by a large concourse of relatives and former townsmen.  His remains were interred in the family grounds of our cemetery.  Mr. Smith was about 60 years of age, and for upwards of sixty years a resident of our town, residing during the greater part of that time at Smiths' Corners, a mile north of our village, upon the farm which his father, the late Samuel A Smith, first settled, and where he died.  During this time Mr. Smith occupied a prominent position before our people, and was repeatedly placed in public positions of power and trust by his townsmen.  Upon the death of his father, he relinquished farming, and shortly after entered the clerical profession, at first in the northern part of our State, from whence he went to Whitewater, Wis., and from which place, after a few years, he returned to this State, and was located at Hamilton. though from circumstances, Mr. Smith was prevented until late in life from gratifying a literary desire, he early in life gave evidence, in his numerous addresses and essays, of ability of no mean degree.  Could his life of usefulness have been spared in the full vigor of health and mental faculties, a few years longer, his worth would have been more fully realized.  In his sudden death a large circle of relatives and friends is left to mourn his loss.

 

Sudden Death of a Clergyman

 

Rev. Erastus P. Smith, Rector of St. Thomas Church in Hamilton, died suddenly about noon on Wednesday of last week.  On the day previous he was in his usual health, and at tea he partook of some canned cherries.  About nine o'clock in the evening he was taken with a violent pain in the stomach, and it is supposed that the cherries must have fermented and caused his death.

 

Deceased was a son of the late Samuel A. Smith, one of the pioneers of the town of Guilford in this County, who for many years was one of the most prominent and respected citizens of that town, and who during his long life filled many offices of honor and trust. The son inherited the sterling qualities of his father, and was also at various times placed in office by his townsmen. After the death of his father, Erastus gave up his farm for the ministry, locating at first in the northern part of the State, from whence he went west, where he remained for a few years, when he returned to this State, and took charge of the Episcopal Church in Hamilton.  In announcing his death, the Hamilton Republican says: 

"Mr. Smith's loss will be deeply felt in this community.  He had, during his short residence among us endeared himself to all who knew him.  He was of that peculiar quiet, happy disposition, that did not push an acquaintance so rapidly as some, but so far as he was known, his many virtues, genial temper, Christian spirit, and example, made him universally beloved.  His death is a great loss to St. Thomas' Church, will be mourned by the members of his own congregation and by those who have not sat under his ministry.  All regret his seemingly untimely death, and all sympathize with his deeply afflicted family."

On Friday the remains reached this village, on the D.L.&W railroad, accompanied by a number of friends from Hamilton, and were escorted to their final resting place in Guilford, where funeral services were held on Saturday, at the Episcopal Church, the last sad rites being largely attended by relatives and friends of the deceased.  His age was sixty-nine years.

 

Nancy Smith

Chenango Union, September 8, 1881

Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. Nancy Smith, widow of the late Rev. Erastus P. Smith, died at the residence of E.S. Bradley, in this village.  Tuesday morning, aged 65 years.  The funeral was held on Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock.  Revs. Randolph, of Christ's Chruch, Sherburne, and Pearse of Christ's Church, Guilford, officiating.  In June last Mrs. Smith came to Guilford from Hamilton, and from that time until the day of her death her health gradually failed.  Although the ties that bound her to earth were many and strong, she felt for many weeks that it was only a few days and she would be with the loved and departed.  Possessed of fine social qualities, a beautiful Christian character, she was ever living nearer the master. She leaves a large circle of near relatives to mourn her death.

 

Nicholas Smith

Bainbridge Republican & Saturday Review, January 22, 1876

In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 12, 1876, Nicholas Smith, aged 88 years.  The past history of this man deserves more than a passing notice.  Mr. Smith was born in Gloucester, Providence county, R.I., and passed the years of his boyhood in the vicinity of his native town.  Born amid the stormy days immediately following the revolution; his character partook of that buoyancy of spirit, and love of adventure which the times and circumstances under which he was placed, were calculated to develop. With this ardent temperament in full play, we find him in the first flush of manhood, bidding adieu to his native home, and full of confidence in the present and of faith in the future, turning his footsteps toward what was then termed the "far west," where, with his young companion and other friends from the same locality, he selected a house deep in the wilds of this new country and commenced his great life work in sober earnest.  The journey from Rhode Island to this place in those primitive times was one of serious moment, and we find this resolute company accomplishing that journey of two hundred and fifty miles in the short space of fourteen days.  On the 8th day of October, 1813, this enterprising company landed within the present limits of this town, to commence the battle of life ready to meet and overcome every obstacle that opposed their onward march.  A grist mill at East Guilford, was the only resort of the few inhabitants, and the surrounding wilderness was only broken here and there by small openings of the few pioneers who had braved the dangers and deprivations of frontier life, in their voluntary seclusion, while the blazed trees were their guides of communication with each other and the distant settlements.  Of all that grand pioneer host, who thus united in the opening ceremony of our present greatness in this particular vicinity, but one now remains.  Like an aged pine on the mountain's brow, lofty in its altitude, grand in its position, lonely in its surroundings, smitten indeed of its foliage, yet towering in its loneliness above its fellows, a beacon of the glory of the past, the grandeur of the present, and the hope of the future.  Let us then throw the mantle of Charity over the errors and short comings of this noble company, who ere long, will have passed from our sight forever, and let us remember the tolls, the sufferings, and the sorrows of those noble men and noble women, who through their sufferings bequeathed to us the noble inheritance of the love of country, the blessings of liberty and the smiles of Heaven.

Ghosts in Bainbridge (??) 1895

Ghosts in Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY

Morning Sun, Norwich, NY, April 17, 1895

There is a mysterious object which sends cold chills up the backs of pedestrians who happen to be journeying in the vicinity of Pearl and Main streets, evenings, after dark.  It requires many conjectures to understand the mystery of the appearance of this person whose actions are strange and spooky.  A distant and frightened opinion imagines the object to be a woman in male attire, either demented or one desirous to annoy the people.

 

Wednesday evening as "Billy" Eccleston and Nathan Hinman, were walking along Pearl street about 8 o'clock, this person attired in a long overcoat, wearing a slouch hat, drawn partly over the face and with features of a woman, stood motionless in the ditch and then upon the approach of the parties ran out in the road and stood in the deepest mud, staring with huge eyeballs, retreating at an approach of the parties and then followed them when they continued their way.  A number of others, among whom were W. B. Matterson, Joe Spohn, and "The" Hutchinson, saw the person or spook on West Main street and deemed her--as there was no doubt she was a woman--very incomprehensible.

 

Perhaps the mystery would have been solved had the boys more chivalry, and bravery, to have shaken hands with the female spook.  Before a crowd could collect this being vanished.  The mystery of the performance has attracted much talk and speculation. This object has been around before, late at night.  If there are ghosts in Bainbridge it will be known for parties are "watching out" for a capture--Bainbridge Republican.

Obituaries (May 17)

Maryette Ingersoll Sherwood

Chenango Union, March 22, 1883

This long winter has had its harvest in deaths among the infirm and aged, who, like the decayed trees of the forest, yield before the surging tempests.  Each of our severe winters leaves in its trail an additional number of fresh mounds that in the early spring sun mark the resting places of those early pioneers.  It is from among this class that we are called upon to record the death of Mrs. John Sherwood, which occurred at her home near our village, on the 19th ult., from acute pneumonia.  Mrs. Sherwood, during years of patient suffering, had beheld a family grow to manhood, while she with the aged partner of her life toiled on to the end.  When her household cares permitted, she passed many hours of recreation among the flowers in her little garden, which she loved so well to cultivate in summer; and her charitable hand was ever ready to respond to every worthy object in the outside world.  As years moved by, and the infirmities of age, together with the effects of lingering disease, began to leave their sad traces, she sought solace in the quiet of home, and in the consolations brought to one through a consistent Christian life.  Only a year ago she said to her family that a year hence would close her earthly career.  In her death, a husband has lost a faithful partner, and her four sons a kind and affectionate mother.

 

William Sherwood

Chenango Telegraph, April 22, 1875

We announced in last week's Telegraph in the obituary column, the death of William Sherwood, which occurred at the residence of his son, Edmund, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst.  Though Mr. Sherwood was unknown to fame and walked in an humble sphere, still his record was a noble one, and deserves more than a passing notice.  He was born in Connecticut, Jan. 11, 1793.  His father was Asa Sherwood, who was a soldier in the Revolutionary Army, and for seven long years bravely fought for the nationality which we now enjoy. William removed to Guilford in this county, about the year 1805.  In the War of 1812-14, he joined the Chenango volunteers, and was stationed at Sackett's Harbor, and thus did his share towards perpetuating the government his father fought to establish. The war over, he returned to this county, and about the year 1844, took up his residence in this village, where he has since resided.  In his early days Mr. Sherwood was a hardy yeoman, and actively engaged in mechanical and agricultural pursuits.  In other respects he was a wonderful man.  He made the Bible his particular study, and often have we heard him quote in almost endless variety, texts in support of the theological questions he delighted to discuss, showing an entire familiarity with the "good book," as he used to term it, and a memory wonderful in its power to retain quotations, and where they might be found in the Bible.  Mr. Sherwood was, we believe, a sincere Christian, though of late years he has not enjoyed church connection.  His word was always sacred, as much so that it was acknowledged to all who were acquainted with him, and implicit reliance placed upon it.  He was of a genial and pleasing disposition, and always imparted pleasure to his hearers in social converse.  Though not a politician, Mr. S. was a close observer of events, and during the war of the Rebellion his voice was always found in favor of his country.  He gave two sons Eugene and James, to the service in the 114th Regiment, who fought nobly to save the government established by the grandfather, and perpetuated by the father.  His last days have passed in quiet, and for the past two years he has not been able to mingle in society or business.  About twenty-five years since he buried his wife, since which he has patiently awaited the Master's appointed time for the reunion in the better land. At last it has come. A good man has gone to his rest, his reward awaits him; indeed has he not already entered into its possession?  Mr. Sherwood left surviving him one brother and sister, John L. Sherwood, and Mrs. Laman Ingersoll, who both reside in Guilford.  His large family of children also all survive him, and we may be pardoned for mentioning them as follows:  David L., residing at Oxford; Charles, St. Louis; Nehemiah, Greene; Eugene, Union, and Edmund and James living in this village.  His daughters are Sophronia, Susan and Mrs. J.H. Allen, who also all reside here.  All are highly respectable citizens, enjoying the confidence of the communities in which they reside.  May the virtues of. the father descend to the children.

 

Nicholas J. Sliter

Chenango Union, April 2, 1874

Nicholas J. Sliter closed his earthly pilgrimage in hope of a glorious immortality, at Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], March 13th, 1874, aged 88 years, 7 months and 22 days.  Mr. Sliter opened his eyes for the first time to the lights and shadows of this inconstant world, at Sidney Plains [Delaware Co., NY], July 21, 1785.  His mother was granddaughter of Rev. Mr. Johnson, a Presbyterian divine, who was the first settler in that village.  In 1778, just seven years previous to his birth, the famous Indian Chief, Joseph Brant, made a raid up the valley from Oquago, drove off the inhabitants, and made his headquarters for a time at which he called "Tunadilla."  His mother fled with the inhabitants to Cherry Valley for safety.  At the time of his birth, there was not a single inhabitant within the present limits of the town of Guilford. The whole country was an unbroken wilderness, in which wild beasts and savage Indians roved at large.  What wonderful changes have come over the face of nature, within the circle of his vision, since that day, and what changes have occurred among the different nations of the earth!  Then Washington, Napoleon, and George III, were alive and famous, together with many other celebrities who live now only in history.  In those days, boys were accustomed to toils and hardships, which imparted to them great strength and good health; and this may account in a great measure for the good constitution and long life of the departed octogenarian.  Mr. Sliter and his bereaved companion were united in marriage in 1819, almost fifty-five years ago; but as the closest unions must be broken up, and the strongest ties be severed, so they are separated at last by the cold river of death--but not long, for she will soon follow him to the land of spirits, where we fondly hope they may dwell in a union that shall never be broken up, and where partings never come.  She may truly say in the words of another--

"My latest sun is sinking fast,

My race is nearly run;

My strongest trials now are past,

My triumph is begun."

Mr. Sliter embraced the religion of Christ in his nineteenth year, or nearly seventy years ago, and united with the Presbyterian Church at Sidney Plains.  He was a true and faithful member of that church until about twenty-five years since, when he changed his relation, and became a member of the M.E Church at Rockdale, He remained in this Church until death released him, and now has joined the Church triumphant in Heaven.  He was a faithful Christian at all times and in all places. For a few years past he has not been able to take as active a part in public worship, as formerly, increasing infirmities rendering it necessary for him to tarry at home except in most pleasant weather.  But he found God at home, and served him most faithfully.  Several weeks since, learning that he was quite feeble, I called upon him, and in conversation found he was trusting fully in the grace and mercy of God, and he maintained this trust to the last moment.  When I saw him again, he was so weak as to be unable to converse even with his dearest friends, but when I sang and prayed with him, he lay quiet with the exception of an effort to raise his hands as if in devotion to God.  He no doubt had his reason to the last, and the last words he uttered to his son, William Sliter, were, "I'm happy!"  His feelings, could he have expressed them would doubtless have been--

"I'm happy, I'm happy.  O wondrous account,

My joys are immortal, I stand on the mount;

I gaze on my treasures and long to be there,

With Jesus and angels, my kindred so dear."

Thus the aged "man of God" lived and died, and now dwells in that "house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens."  For the last thirteen years he has resided with his son, William Sliter, where he found a pleasant home and kind treatment.  His wants were all supplied, and during his last illness he received all the attention and care that a faithful son could bestow upon a parent.  God will bless and honor the love and care of children for their aged parents.  May his blessing rest upon the son and his family.  An affectionate husband, a kind father, a good neighbor, and a devoted Christian man, has gone from us.  May those that weep remember that their loss is his eternal gain.  May we all meet him again on the other side of the cold river.   Mt. Upton, March 13, 1874--S.W. Weiss

 

Obituaries (May 16)

Mrs. L.D. Sherwood

Unadilla Times, February 3, 1933

Friends and relatives in Guilford were very shocked to hear of the death of Mrs. L.D. Sherwood of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], at the Chenango Memorial hospital.  Mrs. Sherwood passed away on Thursday, death being due to pneumonia.  Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock from the residence and at 2 o'clock from the Episcopal church.  The Rev. H.C. Whedon officiated.  Mr. Sherwood is a brother of Mrs. A. H. Evans of Guilford and we extend to the entire family our sympathy.  Surviving besides the husband is a daughter, Helen, and a son Kenneth.

 

Samuel G. Smith

Unadilla Times, February 3, 1933

S.G. Smith of Sidney [Delaware Co., NY] passed away at his late home Thursday morning at 1:15 o'clock.  He had attained the age of 88 years.  For many years he had been a collector of Indian relics.  His rare collections on many occasions he had been offered large sums for them.  Funeral services were private, due to the ill health of Mrs. Smith and were held from the late home on Willow street Sunday afternoon, the Rev. E.R. Holden officiating.  Interment in Prospect Hill cemetery [Sidney, NY].  Mr. Smith is the father of Mrs. Fred Burlison of Mt. Upton, and grandfather of Mrs. Richard Goodwin of Guilford.

  

Sidney Enterprise, January 26, 1933

Mr. Samuel G. Smith died at his home on Willow street, this Thursday morning at 1:15 o'clock, at the age of 88 years.  Mr. Smith had not been in the best of health, due to the infirmities of age, which was the cause of his death.  He had been in bed for a week only.  Mr. Smith was born on the homestead farm, about two miles below this village, which his parents settled in the early days of this country, being born on November 1, 1814.  He was united in marriage to Miss Mina Olmsted on April 12, 1871, and to them were born a son, Fred H. Smith, of Delhi, and one daughter, Mrs. Fred Burlison of Guilford.  Besides these two children and the aged wife, he is survived by nine grandchildren, three great grandchildren, a brother, Bion Smith of this village, and a niece, Mrs. Lelia Guyer of Hillsdale, Mich. and a nephew, Shiloh Smith of Traverse City, Mich.  Mr. Smith spent all of his life before coming to this village to live about thirteen years ago, on the farm just below Sidney.  He was a collector of Indian relics, and his collection was the envy of many a collector, in fact, on many occasions he has been offered large sums for them.  Owing to the poor health of Mrs. Smith the funeral will be private and the family request that no flowers be sent.  The funeral will be held at the home on Willow street Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. Edwin R. Holden, pastor of the Sidney Congregational church, officiating .  The interment will be in Prospect Hill cemetery.

 

E. Clark Lyons

Chenango Union, August 24, 1882

LYONS:  In Milwaukee, Wis., on Sunday, August 13th 1882, Mr. E. Clark Lyons, formerly of Pitcher, Chenango Co., N.Y., in the 66th year of his age.

 

Mr. Lyons was traveling from a firm in Chicago, Ill, and while on the street of Milwaukee, on Monday, August 7th, was fatally sunstruck, paralyzing his right side, and he was unconscious, or unable to speak until his death.  He was taken about 10 o'clock A.M. on Monday, August 7th, and was found by the police and taken to the station, where he remained until 1 P.M.  The police found in his pockets papers containing his name and the address of his employers, as also the number of his boarding house.  Inquiries were made at the latter place, and a description given of the person, when he was identified, removed to the boarding house, and a physician called, who pronounced it a fatal case, saying there was no help for him.  Upon examining his papers it was found that he had a son, F.F. Lyons living in Chicago, to whom a telegram was dispatched, when he hastened to Milwaukee, and was with his father until his death.  His remains were buried in Forest hill Cemetery, Milwaukee.  Deceased leaves a wife and daughter surviving him, living in Cortland, Cortland Co., N.Y., and two sons, F.W. and F.F. Lyons, residing in Chicago.  Mr. Lyons was one of the earliest settlers in Pitcher, he having resided there for upwards of forty years.  He was the first postmaster in that town, he having held the office for more than twenty years, he also held the office of Commissioner of Excise for a number of years.

 

Death Notices

Chenango Union, August 24, 1882

 

BLANCHARD:  In Cleveland, Oswego Co., August 17th, Mr. Edward H. Blanchard, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], aged 24 years.

 

WHEELER:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], August 14th, Mrs. Olive C. Wheeler, widow of Benson H. Wheeler, aged 85 years.

 

MEAD:  In McPherson, Kansas, August 12th, Mr. Sylvanus Mead, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 80 years.

 

MUDGE:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], August 14th, Mr. David Mudge, aged 72 years.

 

WHEELER:  In Garrettsville, Otsego Co., August 6th, Julia A. [Wheeler], wife of John Wheeler, aged 50 years, formerly of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY].

 

BEEBE:  In Virginia City, Nev., August 7th, Mr. Doddridge Beebe, aged 62 years, son of Daniel Beebe, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

Burt Hyde Nominated for Chenango Co., Sheriff - 1903

Burt B. Hyde

Well-Known Afton Man Nominated by Democrats for Sheriff

Utica Saturday Globe, October 1903

 

Burt B. Hyde

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At the county convention held Saturday last in this village Burt B. Hyde, a prominent resident of Afton, was the choice of the party for candidate for sheriff.

 

Mr. Hyde was born in Afton [Chenango Co., NY], October 26, 1865 and has always lived there.  He grew up in the drug business, his father, Albert C. Hyde, having for many years conducted a drug store in that village and he succeeded his father in the business which he now conducts under his own name.  He was assistant postmaster of Afton under Cleveland's first term and was postmaster under his second term, serving from November 9, 1893, to January 22, 1899.  He was for two years treasurer of the High School and served two years as treasurer of the village and is now serving his third year as its president.

Obituaries (May 15)

Hon. Fitch Phelps

Chenango Union, April 10, 1890

From a copy of the Big Rapids, (Michigan) Current, of January 29, we receive the announcement of the death of Hon. Fitch Phelps.  Mr. Phelps was a native of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], and at an early age removed to the western part of this State, from which he went to California, remaining there some five years.  Later he returned and located near Big Rapids, in Michigan, engaged extensively in the lumber business.  He soon amassed a large fortune, and became one of the prominent men of that State.  In politics he was a Republican, and served in both branches of the Michigan legislature with distinction.  We enjoyed a pleasant chat with Mr. and Mrs. Phelps, the past autumn, when they were in Guilford, visiting the scenes of Mr. Phelps' childhood.  His benevolence was commensurate with his wealth, and unostentatiously bestowed among the needy and deserving.  He leaves a widow, an estimable lady, but no children, to mourn his loss.

 

Asaph Phillips

Chenango Semi Weekly Telegraph, December 12, 1877

PHILLIPS:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 19th, 1877, at the residence of Charlton Phillips, Asaph Phillips, aged 82 years, 4 months and 11 days.

Asaph Phillips was born at Ashfield, Mass., July 8th, 1795.  He moved to the town of Guilford, when only three years of age, at this time there were no roads, and they traveled by what was called marked or blazed trees.  He was married to Hannah Hoyt, Dec. 1st, 1819, and has lived at the place of his death ever since.  He has always voted the Whig and Republican tickets and attended every election except the one this fall, for sixty-one years.  He has been a subscriber to the Telegraph ever since it has been printed.   He leaves a wife and four children to mourn his loss.  His funeral was held at the house of Charlton Phillips, Wednesday, Nov. 21st, 1877, and was largely attended by relatives and friends.  Sermon was preached by Rev. P. Griffin, of Guilford Centre.  He was buried in burying ground near Clark Bradley's.

 

Rev. E.J. Bickford

Chenango Semi Weekly Telegraph, December 12, 1877

BICKFORD:  In Marash, Central Turkey, Oct. 19th, 1877, Rev. E.J. Bickford, in the 34th year of his age.

Mr. Bickford, the husband of the lady whose occasion "Letter from Turkey" has appeared in the Telegraph, left this country three years ago to join the Central Turkey Mission.  He had acquired a fine command of the language and was just entering fully upon his work as instructor in the Theological Seminary at Marash, with every prospect of usefulness, when he was seized with smallpox of a malignant type, and lived but two weeks. To human reason, it would seem as if these three years of preparation for a work which he was never to do, were lost, and his life given as a useless sacrifice; but God's children know that he never makes mistakes and we feel that this is only a part of his plan, the wisdom of which, though the reasons are not given, we cannot doubt.  Mrs. Bickford, with her two little ones, will return to the home of her father, Mr. Charles Williams of Columbus.

 

Hannah (Dorman) Pratt

Guilford Mail, February 1899

Mrs. Hannah Pratt died at her home in Mount Vision, Otsego Co., N.Y. Dec. 24th, 1898 in her 71st year.  Hannah Dorman was born in the town of Smithville, Chenango Co. N.Y on Much 27th, 1828, she with her father's family moved to Guilford in 1834.  She gave her heart to God when a child and lived a true Christian life to the time of her death.  She united with the M.E. Church of Guilford of which she was a member while she lived in Guilford.  Her kindness and help in times of sickness and death are well remembered by many in Guilford.  Her father and oldest brother Philo died in Guilford in 1843 and her mother after being blind twelve years died in 1872.  She was united in marriage in 1864 to William H. Pratt and with him moved to Mount Vision, Otsego Co., N.Y. in 1868 which was her future home.  She leaves a large circle of friends there and in other places where she was known. She united with the Presbyterian Church at Laurens, Otsego Co., of which her husband was a member.  She leaves a husband, William H. Pratt of Mount Vision, two brothers ant one sister, John and David Dorman and Mrs. Charles C. North, all of Guilford. Services were held at her late home in Mount Vision on Sunday, Dec. 25th, by her pastor from Laurens and on the following day her remains were brought to Guilford to the home of her brother David Dorman where funeral services were again held at 1 P.M. Tuesday Dec. 27th, the Rev. E.L. Tiffany officiating. A large number of friends and acquaintances were present to pay their last tribute to the memory of the deceased.  The interment took place in the family plot on the bank overlooking the beautiful Guilford Lake.  "She is not dead but sleepeth."  St. Luke, 8:52.

Betty Manwaring Rolfe

Norwich Sun, January 10, 1924

Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]:  Little Betty Manwaring Rolfe was born in Guilford, February 5, 1922.  She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Rolfe. Throughout her long illness beginning early in October, her mind remained entirely clear.  During her illness she kept learning new words and playing with her dolls and toys.  On Friday December 28th less than two hours before the change came she sat up in bed alone and played. She kept her unfailing good temper.  in the Crouse-Irving Hospital at Syracuse during the last five weeks of her sickness, the nurses and patients said she was the only baby they ever knew who never cried. She is survived by her parents and one brother and one sister,  Funeral services were held at the late home Monday, December 31st, the remains being laid in the family plot at Sunset Hill cemetery [Guilford, NY] to await the dawning of the Great Day. To the bereaved family sympathy flows.

Blog Post Listing, May 8-14, 2017

Listing of blog postings for the week of May 8-14, 2017

Marriages

Posted May 12, 2017
Mr. & Mrs. Edward D. Jewell (50th anniversary, Guilford, 1877)
Elopement (1877)

Marriage notices

     Joseph Chapel - Phebe Wood (1821)

     Buckley Mather - Experience Spencer (1821)

     Charles Thorn - Martha Spencer (1821)
     Nathaniel W. Hughston - Demeras Morgan (1822)
     Mason W. Hughston - Anne Hunt (1822)

Posted May 13, 2017
Franklin L. Ives - Martha Queal Briggs (1912)
Marriage Notices - 1866

     Eleazer Smith - Harriett Webb 

     James E. Bristol - Frances A. Roe

     Norman Bowen - Melvina Dixson

     Merritt Breed - Chloe C Coy

     Reuben Weed - Arminda Fisher

     Adelbert I. Reed - Nellie M. Pratt

     Matteson Webster - Emily L. Hunt

     Morris P. Newton -Jennie M. Collins

Posted May 14, 2017
Charles C. North - Sally Dorman (30th anniversary, 1883)
 

Obituaries

Posted May 8, 2017

Rosa May Knowles (Smyrna, 1885)

Dr. Oliver E. Noble (Dundee, 1885)

Paris Ives (Guilford, 1880)

Minnie Briggs (Smyrna, 1880)

Roxy Ives (Ives Settlement 1888)

Mrs. Lemuel Jewell (Guilford 1877)

Posted May 9, 2017
Tompkins Jewell (Mt. Upton, 1893)
Mrs. Tompkins Jewell (Mt. Upton, 1876)
Charles Mills (Guilford, 1875)
Edward Samuel Mills (Guilford, 1875)
Margaret Porter Beecher (Coventry, 1875)

Posted May 10, 2017
Annah Campbell (Columbus, 1821)
John Pabodie (Providence RI, Norwich, 1821)
Pomona (Dickinson) Johnson (Afton, Guilford, 1887)
Mary & Julia Sherburne (Monroe MI, New Berlin, 1884)
John Swan Randall (Norwich, Oswego, 1878)

Posted May 11, 2017
Chittenden H. Rogers (Binghamton, 1885)
Frank Church (Norwich, 1878)
Kenneth Jay Hickok (Norwich, Rochester, 1902)
Marriage Notices (1879)
     Ann Brown (Masonville)
     Isilton Mead (Yaleville)
     Levi Church (Afton)
     William Benedict (Afton)

Posted May 12, 2017
Maria Merchant (Guilford, 1878)
Orrin G. Merchant (Guilford, 1880)
Joshua Mersereau (Tioga PA, 1857)

Posted May 13, 2017
Mrs. Frank Miner (Guilford, 1910)
Mrs. John K. Miner (Guilford, 1885)
George Morse (East Guilford, Unadilla, 1912)
Harry Hughes (Norwich, 1912)
Fitch B. Gross (Greene, 1912)
Jonah Moses (Guilford, 1912)
Death Notices - 1866
     Thomas Root (Oxford)
     Electa Beardsley (Coventry)
     Jonah Moses Sr. (Guilford)
     Frances Augusta Barre (Roscoe, IL, Norwich)

Posted May 14, 2017
Julia (Fry) Norwood Halberg (Norwich, 1916)
Catherine Ann Vergason (Binghamton, 1916)
Hattie (Fargo) Northup (Smyrna, 1916)
Death notices
     Susan Campbell (Afton, 1879)
     Mary J. Willey (Sanford, 1867)
     Eddie Seeley (Afton, 1916)
     Charlie Seeley (Afton, 1916)
     Elsie M. Bunce (Afton, 1916)
     Hannah M. Robbins (North Pharsalia, 1916)
     Fidelia Tower (Oxford, 1916)
     Roger W Sayles (Norwich, 1916)
     Susan D. Dow (Sherburne, 1916)
    



 

Miscellaneous

Posted May 14, 2017

Emeline (Miller) Parsons, 1879

Obituaries (May 14)

Julia (Fry) Norwood Halberg

Norwich Sun, March 28, 1916

Many friends in this city and in other places throughout the country were grieved to learn of the death of Mrs. Julia Norwood Halberg, the wife of Joseph Halberg at their home on Cortland street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] on Saturday, March 18.  Mrs. Halberg was born in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], November 14, 1856, the daughter of Robert and Ann Fry and when a young woman was united in marriage to William Norwood who died a number of years since.  On Nov. 28, 1914 she was married again to Joseph H. Halberg who with two sons by the first marriage, William T. Norwood, of Kingston and Byron R. Norwood of this city survive her.  Mrs. Halberg was a member of the First Baptist church and for many years was active in church work, but of late years has devoted most of her energies and time to her home and family, where her loving care will be greatly missed.  She was also a member of Lily of the Valley lodge, Degree of Rebekah and was a past grand of the local lodge.

 

Catherine Ann Vergason

Norwich Sun, March 28, 1916

Mrs. Catherine Ann Vergason died at 6 o'clock, Monday evening at her home, no. 21 Seminary avenue, Binghamton [Broome Co., NY].  She is survived by her husband, Frank Vergason, two daughters, Mrs. Fred Conway of Binghamton and Mrs. Fred Green of Auburn and three sons, Newell Vergason of Auburn, Herbert Vergason of Norwich and Ralph Vergason of Johnson City. The funeral will be held at the home in Binghamton Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock and burial will be in Floral Park cemetery [Binghamton, Broome Co., NY].

 

Hattie (Fargo) Northup

Norwich Sun,  March 28, 1916

Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY]:  Hattie, wife of Jay Northup, died at her home in the village of Smyrna Monday night, March 27, after an illness of many months, aged 26 years.  She is survived by her husband and little son, Franklin, her father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Fargo of this town.  and two sister's, Mrs. Bert Northup of South Otselic and Mrs. George Willcox of Smyrna. The funeral services will be held at one o'clock Thursday.  Burial at Sherburne Hill [Sherburne, Chenango Co., NY].

 

Death Notices

Bainbridge Republican, April 17, 1879

 

CAMPBELL:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], April 7tyh, 1879, Mrs. Susan Campbell, aged 22 years.

 

Chenango Telegraph & Chronicle, February 27, 1867

 

WILLEY:  In Sanford, [Broome] Co., Feb. 9th, Mrs. Mary J. [Willey], wife of Leforrest Willey, aged 22 years.

 

SEELEY:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 13th, Eddie [Seeley], youngest son of T.B Seeley, aged 5 years and 6 months.

 

SEELEY:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY] Feb. 14th, Charlie [Seeley], only son of T. B. Seeley, aged 9 years and 3 months.

 

BUNCE:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY] Jan. 27th, Elsie M. [Bunce],. infant daughter of Justice and Jane Bunce, aged 3 months and 3 days.

 

ROBBINS:  In North Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY] February 11th, Hannah M. [Robbins], wife of Henry T. Robbins, aged 32 years.

 

TOWER:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 16th, Fidelia [Tower], wife of Dea. Obadiah Tower, aged 60 years.

 

SAYLES:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 14th, Robert W. Sayles aged 56 years.

 

DOW:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 7th, Susan D. [Dow], wife of Cyrus M. Dow, aged 57 years.

 

 

Emeline (Miller) Parsons - 1879

Emeline (Miller) Parsons

Bainbridge Republican, April 17, 1879

 

Among the aged residents of our community we would mention the name of Mrs. Charles Parsons, daughter of William and Esther Miller, who was born at Glastonburg, Connecticut, June 22nd, 1799.  Her father was a farmer, and a man of property, and who gave his children good advantages.  She was married in April 1825, and commenced housekeeping at Endfield near Hartford, Conn.  Her husband was a mechanic (Blacksmith) and a soldier in the war of 1812.  After their marriage they resided at Endfield till the year of 1839, when they moved to Yaleville, Chenango Co., N.Y., where her husband worked at his trade until about 1852, when he purchased a farm in East Bainbridge, near the junction of the Unadilla river.  Here he carried on blacksmithing and farming for nearly 13 years, when he sold out and moved to Sidney Plains, where he died July 21t, 1865.  They had 8 children, 5 of whom are now living.  Mrs. Parsons, since the death of her husband, has lived with her children, 3 of whom were married and lived in the place.  She now makes it her home with her son James, who is also a blacksmith by trade, and is now carrying on that business.  Mrs. Parsons belonged to a family of eight children, only three of whom are now living.  Her brother Mathew Miller moved to East Guilford in the year of 1821, and purchased the John Mersereau farm, and still resides upon it.  Her sister, Fannie, widow of the late Rev. Octavus Fitch, is living with a niece in Sidney Plains.  The father died in Connecticut, in the year 1814.  Their mother died at East Guilford in 1847.  Mrs. Parsons has long been connected with the Congregational Church, and is regarded as a devoted Christian, and as one who strives to do right,.  She, at the present time, is in feeble health, but hopes when spring time has fully come, and flowers bloom, that she too, will feel the invigorating influence of a genial atmosphere, and will again be able to take her accustomed seat in the sanctuary, where she enjoys the society and friendship of her Christiano99 friends and neighbors.

___________________________________

 

Obituary

Sidney Record, December 4, 1890

Mrs. Emeline Miller Parsons, aged 91 years and 5 months, was laid at rest in Prospect Hill cemetery [Sidney, Delaware co., NY] last Sunday.  The services were held in the Congregational church, conducted by the pastor, Rev. A.S. Wood.  Many relatives from abroad attended the funeral.  Mrs. Parsons died at the residence of Mr. John Henry, in Unadilla Centre. She was a resident of Sidney many years and was universally esteemed as an exemplary Christian lady.

Marriages (May 14)

North - Dorman

Chenango Union, May 10, 1883

Charles C. North and Miss Sally Dormdedan, of Guilford, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY], were united in the bonds of matrimony, May 4th, 1853, by Rev. Ransom, and although thirty years have passed since then, the event is not forgotten.  Some of the good friends of this couple thought the event worthy an anniversary, and so we witnessed a novel scene last Wednesday, May 4th.  We were requested to be at the house of David Dorman, the old homestead, hard by, at ten o'clock in the morning.  The hour found us there, and strange as it may seem, several of our thrifty farmers and their wives were there already, and others put in an appearance shortly, until the company numbered fifty or more, and the scene opened thus:  An instrument of music was placed upon a sled, and a musician took her place on the stool.  "Uncle Henry" had the reins in hand, and led the way, followed by a giggling company, and as they turned from the street into the said C.C. North's yard, Minnie struck up "Marching through Georgia."  We are not certain that the choir kept time with the instrument, but we are sure that about this time Mrs. Sally and Miss Jennie came to the door, suddenly, we judge, as their sleeves were rolled up, and although Charles was in a distant field sowing oats, we saw his hat lift as the company shouted to him.  Realizing his condition the Doctor hastened to him, and soon he was in our midst, panting and sweating, and gasping "I am still alive."  The scene was called "a surprise."  If it was, it was a good one, if not, it was well played.

 

While the ladies made their toilet, and Charles changed his boots, the rattle of pots and kettles was heard.  Extension tables were extended, baskets were unloaded, and thirty of us were comfo6rtably seated by heavily loaded tables a few minutes past noon, while thirty others said to themselves, "Second table always comes cheaper;" but if they added, as a little fellow did once, "there is never half so much on it," they were mistaken, for they had more than a sufficiency.  At 3 o'clock the scene changed.  The company filled the parlor and sitting room, and the porch, and the pair was escorted into the room by gallant groomsmen and fair bridesmaids, when the matrimonial vows were renewed, and a congratulatory presentation speech was made by their pastor, Rev. P.R. Tower, for the friends had brought with them other than table luxuries.  The pair were congratulated on their prosperous married life, as evidenced by their family of children, and he on the peaceful tenor of his ways, as shown by his full head of hair, and they on the high esteem in which they are held, as demonstrated by the gathering. 

 

A fine hanging lamp, a silver caster, a set of chairs and a rocker, and other presents to the amount of $30, were duly presented.  If the coming failed to surprise, this scene did not.  The pair were too much surprised for many words, to Rev. L.A. Wild, of Rockdale, came to the rescue, in a neat little speech responsive.  "Father North," who has walked the earth for four score and nine years, expressed the great pleasure the occasion had given him; he was glad to know his children had so many friends, and then he seemed to bring heaven down, as he offered thanksgiving and prayer to the Giver of all our blessings.  The singing interspersed was soul stirring.  Altogether the affair was pleasant and profitable. 

 

Beside the relatives and friends of the vicinity of this honored pair, there were present A. Converse and wife, of Gilbertsville; Howard North and wife, of Troy, N.Y.; Miss Hattie Chamberlain, of Iowa; H.L. White and wife, of North Guilford; and Rev. L.A. Wild and wife, Harry Brown and wife, Erastus North and wife, and Charles Manwarren and wife, from Rockdale.---P.R.T.

 

C.C. North and wife wish to express their heartfelt thanks to their many friends who so kindly remembered them on the 4th of May, it being the thirtieth anniversary of their wedding.