Bainbridge High School Class of 1959 - part 3

Bainbridge Central High School

Class of 1959

"Echo" 1959

 

Bonnie Ellen Davidson

 

 

Doreen Joanne Day

 

 

Ronald Franklin Decker

 

 

Gordon George Dolph

 

 

Mary Elizabeth Gifford

 

 

Carl Lee Giles

Chenango & Unadilla Valley 50 Years Ago

Chenango And Unadilla Valley Fifty Years Ago

by S.S. Randall

Chenango Telegraph, April 10, 1872

 

Chenango County Congressional Representation

The County of Chenango has been only once represented in the Senate of the United States - in 1809-15 by Gen. Obadiah German, afterwards, in 1819, Speaker of the Assembly - a man of a commanding presence, and marked abilities as a Statesman and politician. The Valley has, however, been long and ably represented in that body, in the State Senate, and Executive Department, by one whom Chenango has a legitimate right to claim as one of her own most distinguished citizens, Daniel S. Dickinson, of Binghamton.  For twenty years, from his earliest boyhood, Gov. Dickinson labored on his father's farm in Guilford, varied only by occasional intervals of teaching, and in that town, or its immediate vicinity, married the amiable and excellent partner of his long and eventful life - a daughter of Dr. Knapp.  With Messrs. Clark and Clapp, of Norwich, he prosecuted and completed his law studies.  At the bar of the Chenango Common Pleas he was first admitted to practice; and there he gained his earliest laurels.  The County of Chenango was a part of the Sixth Senatorial District, which placed him in the Senate, and made him Lieutenant Governor, and constituted, with Broome, the Congressional District in which he resided.  Well, then, may Chenango claim the greatest share in the brilliant and patriotic career of the great Senator, who, side by side with John A. Dix, abandoning all party allegiance, clung determinedly and to the last to the imperiled Union.

 

It was not until the year 1808, that Chenango formed part of a separate Congressional District, with Broome and Tioga.  Previous to that date, it was united with Herkimer and Tioga.  Gen John Patterson, of Broome, represented the County in Congress in 1803-5, and was succeeded in 1805-7, and again from 1809-1813, by Uri Tracy, of Oxford.  Joel Thompson, of Norwich, succeeded Mr. Tracy in 1813-15; James Birdsall of Norwich in 1815-17, John R. Drake, of Tioga in 1817-19; Lot Clark, of Norwich in 1823-25; Elias Whittemore, of Broome, in 1825-27; John C. Clark, of Bainbridge, in 1827-29, and afterwards in 1837-39; John A. Collier of Binghamton, in 1831-33;, Dr. Henry Mitchell, of Norwich in 1833-35; Dr. William Mason, of Preston in 1835-37 Demar Hubbard, Jr. of Smyrna, in 1837-43, Smith M. Purdy of Norwich, in 1843-45; Stephen Strong, of Tioga, in 1845-47; Audburn Birdsall, of Broome, in 1847-49; and Henry Bennett, of New Berlin, during the ensuing ten years, from 1849-1859.

 

To be continued

Obituaries (November 4)

Sarah A. (Stillwell) Updike

Bainbridge Republican, January 13, 1872

The Trumansburg Sentinel last week published the marriage notice of Miss Sarah A. Stillwell of Hector, and immediately after it the death notice of the same lady, the dates of the wedding and death being only two days apart, the first December 26th and the latter the 28th.  She married a Mr. Updike, of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], the wedding occurred in Hector, Schuyler county, and death in Unadilla Otsego county. The lady was in perfect health so far as anyone knew, was young and interesting.  She went to the home of her husband with him and just after arriving went up stairs in a lively manner.  Being absent a long time, her husband followed her and found her lying dead in the room above.  Heart disease is accredited with having been the cause of her death, but it is understood that her immediate sudden demise was brought about by tight lacing.  She ran upstairs in haste, causing, it is thought, an accelerated circulation which impeded by her tight corset, ruptured a blood vessel or overworked her heart, which might not have been absolutely normal.  The case is a sad one.  It is seldom that the shroud so quickly follows the bridal dress--Elmira Advertiser  The Advertiser is mistaken; the verdict of the Coroner's jury is that she came to death by accidental poisoning.

 

Lois O. Lyon

Bainbridge Republican, June 5, 1875

While the memory of a Christian's life is fresh and fragrant long after the actor has removed from the present state, for "the righteous shall be held in everlasting remembrance," yet it becomes a pleasant duty to record the riches which we have discovered in those whose departure may be a source of regret--that we may be induced to admire and imitate those qualities which perhaps have been obscured within the confines of a sick chamber, and only observed by those who have been in immediate attendance.  Prompted by this conviction of duty and as a just tribute to the departed, we present a brief obituary of Miss Lois O. Lyon of this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], who departed this life for Heaven on Saturday, April 24th, 1875.  Miss Lyon was born in Bainbridge in the year 1832, she was therefore in her 42d year.  She was impressed with the importance of a Christian life when but very young, and at the age of 18 she experienced religion during a camp meeting at Bainbridge, and united with the M.E. Church of this palce, which connection she sustained until she exchanged the church militant for the church triumphant.

 

During the past eight years she has been a sufferer with but little intermission.  Consumption often slow, but too often sure, bore her down, yet amid her sufferings she was an example of patience and submission.  The last few weeks of her life she failed fast, yet though the bodily nature weakened the spiritual strengthened and when at the close death dissolved the union, the frame was completely enfeebled, but the soul had become matured and perfected.

 

The week before her decease, when visited by her pastor, she requested singing.  To some it might appear inconsistent, but was in perfect order with her state of mind--all peace, all joy, all hope, trusting in her Saviour, the anchor of her soul was cast within the veil.  About three hours before death, when asked by her aunt if she was conscious that she was dying, replied "No, am I?"  then with almost unnatural strength sang two verses of a familiar hymn, "Is it death?"  A few minutes before her departure she said to those near, "Farewell, I am going home," and thus passed away from a small remnant of her family here to join those who had passed over before.  Happy for all who read this if their end shall be as triumphant.   R.

 

Seth Bartlett

Sidney Record, June 12, 1884

Seth Bartlett, Esq., one of our old and well known citizens, died on the 7th inst.  He was born in Franklin [Delaware Co., NY] about 70 years ago, but has resided in this town since his boyhood.  A large circle of friends and acquaintances regret his loss.  Of an amiable and friendly disposition, he was noted for his prudence and strong practical sense and judgment in the management of affairs.  Naturally considerate and with a mind evenly balanced, he avoided extremes of opinion and action, and without making any pretence or loud profesion he lived a most exemplary and moral life.  Always adverse to strife and contention he cultivated peace and good will among all.  He was one of that class of men who leave the world better for having lived in it, and who give character and credit to the community where they spend their days.

 

Judson Legg

DeRuyter Gleaner, October 15, 1953

Judson Legg, a resident of Holland Patent [Oneida Co., NY], died in a hospital at Rome [Oneida Co., NY], Oct. 7, 1953.  He was born in South Otselic, N.Y. []Chenango Co.] Sept. 24, 1883, the son of Sylvanus and Olive Legg.  Besides nephews and nieces, only one sister, Mrs. Minnie Sanderson, survives.  Funeral services were held at the Davis Funeral home, Saturday afternoon, Oct. 10.  Rev. Willard Ashley officiated.  Interment was in Valley View Cemetery [South Otselic].

 

Death  Notices

Bainbridge Republican, June 5, 1875

 

NEWTON:  In Sidney Plains [Delaware Co., NY], May 20th, Wm. W. Newton, aged 24 years 11 months and 15 days.

 

CLARK:  In Bennettsville [Chenango Co., NY], May 17th, at his residence, Mr. Joseph A. Clark, aged 83 years.

 

FLINT:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], at the residence of her son-in-law, Charles D. Brown, Curence J. [Flint], wife of Wm. L. Flint, of Rockdale [Chenango Co., NY], aged 50 years and 4 months.

 

WOOD:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], May 6th, 1875, Emma Wood, aged 20 years.

 

 

 

 

Obituaries (November 3)

Sarah Gurnsey

Chenango American, Greene, NY, September 25, 1856

In the village of Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst., at the residence of her son-in-law, C.A. Stevens, Mrs. Sarah Guernsey, relict of Samuel Gurnsey of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], deceased, aged 81 years.

 

In the decease of this estimable lady, noticed in the obituary department of last week, something more would seem to be due than the slight reference therein given.  She had attained to advanced age and was one of the earliest pioneer settlers of this valley. As the writer of this sketch stood by the grave in which her mortal remains were to be deposited, a friend stood near him, whose memory of the deceased ran back through a period of over fifty years.  He spoke warmly of her noble qualities of character, which shone out even to the last of her mortal existence.  Through a very long portion of the closing years of her life, she had been a sufferer through pains and infirmities of body, but her intellect retained its clearness unbroken to the last. She bore with meekness the chastening hand of God, but longed to depart to her home in Heaven.  Deep was the interest she felt and manifested in her spiritual welfare.  In her case age had not blunted those religious feelings and affections which look to Christ and the hopes that centre in his cross.  Many and marked were the changes in social life, as well as in the aspect of the natural world in the progress of cultivation, which she had witnessed.  She had seen most of those whom in this early home she had known as neighbors and friends, pass away before her, and the time has come to her, long before her departure that she had realized the Force of the language of the Psalmist, "though men be so strong that they come to fourscore years, yet is their strength then but labor and sorrow."  Her spirit passed gently away beneath the roof of a kind and devoted daughter where every attention had been bestowed upon her that filial love could suggest.  "The hoary head is a crown of glory if it is found in the way of righteousness.     R.

 

Gardner Young

Cortland Democrat, March 23, 1917

Gardner Young died at his home in North West corners, Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], March 17.  This coming April 14 he would have been 83 years of age.  He was the last of a large family.  He leaves two sons Burt B. Young of Syracuse and Frank G. Young with whom he spent the last few years; two daughters, Miss Nellie Young of Mt. Vernon and Mrs. Frank E. Cox of South Otselic; several grand children and six great grand children.  Funeral was Tuesday, Rev. B. S. Bixby officiating, burial in Valley View cemetery [South Otselic, Chenango Co., NY], Mr. Young was a member of the Baptist church and for over forty years a resident of this place.

 

John H. McKee

Norwich Sun, January 14, 1925

South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY]:  John H. McKee died last Thursday night of acute indigestion, being sick less than an hour. He was 73 years old.  He leaves a wife and four daughters, Mrs. Frank Jackson, Mrs. Grace Huttleston and Mae Anna Bush of this place, and Mrs. George Auburn of Utica.  A private funeral was held at his home Saturday, with burial in Valley View cemetery [South Otselic].

 

Joyce Church

DeRuyter Gleaner, October 20, 1933

South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY] was deeply grieved over the tragic death of Joyce Church, 14 years old, who was accidentally hit by the automobile of Howard Knapp while walking in the highway at about 11 o'clock Friday night just below the village by the fish hatchery.  She was taken immediately to Dr. Crumb's office and from there rushed to Norwich hospital in F.H. Angell's car, where she died within a few minutes after reaching there from a fractured skull.  Robert Alter, another member of the party who were returning  home from roller skating at Loomis', being also struck received a concussion of the head and was also taken to the hospital but is gaining.  Other members of the party included L.D. Moore who received a bruised leg.  Wilda Angell, who was not hit and Neil Huttleston only a slight bruise.  The party were walking on the right side of the road in the same direction the car was headed. the windshield of the car being frosty prevented Knapp from seeing them but no blame is held against him.  Joyce was a first year high student and will be greatly missed not only by the family but by her many companions and friends as she was well liked by all.  Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon in the Baptist church at 2 o'clock, Rev. J.C. Whitney officiating.  Undertaker Heath of Cincinnatus had charge. The large attendance and abundance of Flowers showed the esteem in which she was held.  Interment was made in Valley View cemetery [South Otselic]. 

 

Bernice Coleman

DeRuyter Gleaner, November 30, 1933

South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY]:  Miss Bernice Coleman, 35, daughter of William Coleman of So. Otselic died suddenly Wednesday night Nov. 22, 1933, at 8:30 p.m. from lobar pneumonia at the United Hospital at Port Chester, Long island, where she taught in the Lincoln school there for the past four years.  She had been a sufferer from heart trouble for several years, thus was under the doctor's care for the past two years.  Being taken ill over the weekend did not seem serious until the day of her death when she was admitted to the hospital at 2 p.m.  Born in this town on October 5, 1898, she became a high school graduate in 1917 and in 1919 a graduate of Cortland Normal thus enabling her to become a teacher in various schools including Manlius, Newburgh, Newfield, Croton-on-Hudson, Bay Shore, L.I., besides Port Chester.  Miss Coleman was also a member of the South Otselic Baptist church.  Private funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Roy Davis with Undertaker Woodley in charge and Rev. J. C. Whitney officiating, interment was made in Valley View cemetery [South Otselic].  Besides her father, she is survived by five sisters, Mrs. Howard Bumpus of Lincklaen, Mrs. Duane Brown, Mrs. Roy Davis, Mrs. Horace Baker of South Otselic and Miss Doris Coleman of Port Chester, L.I.

Obituaries (November 2)

Jay Legg

DeRuyter Gleaner, November 16, 1927

Jay Legg of South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY] lost his life in a hunting accident at Big Rock Lodge Tuesday afternoon.  Mr. Legg had gone out with a party of hunters from Middleville early in the morning and in the afternoon was accidentally shot through the upper portion of the body by one of the members of his party.  Dr. L.L. Kelly of Middleville was called, but the wounded man died before he could be removed to a farm house or any aid administered.

 

DeRuyter Gleaner, November 17, 1927

Our town was greatly shocked by the death of Jay Legg, who was accidentally shot by one of the party Tuesday, November 8th, 1927 while hunting in the North Woods.  Mr. Legg was born May 25th, 1877 in this town.  On June 18th, 1902, he was married to Grace Law of Pitcher, where they lived until five years ago and he came to live with his aged parents.  The deceased was a member of the I.O.O.F. Lodge.  He was fifty years of age at the time of his death.  He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Grace Legg of Cortland, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. S.B. Legg, three children, Asa of Cornell; Dean of South Otselic and Mrs. Alfred Rolls of Sheds; two sisters, Mrs. Ralph Sanderson of this place and Mrs. Lena Allen of Blodgett Mills; one brother, Judson Legg of Holland Patent; also one grandchild, besides a cousin, Mrs. Reynolds Smith of Baldwinsville.

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Ida J. (Cook) Higgins

DeRuyter Gleaner, November 17, 1927

Mrs. Dever Higgins who has been in poor health for the past year passed away Saturday night November 12th, 1927, about eight o'clock.  She was born October 17th, 1857 in this town and on September 22nd, 1875 was married to Dever Higgins who now survives her.  Mrs. Higgins, was a member of the Baptist Church.  Mr. and Mrs. Higgins lived on their farm about two miles and a half out of town for forty-five years.  Then they moved into the village where they have lived for the past seven years. The deceased was seventy years and twenty-six days old.  Besides her husband she leaves to mourn her loss one son, Lynn, of this place and one brother, Judd Cook, of Norwich; two sisters, Mrs. Charles Woodley of this place and Mrs. Etta Ryan of Syracuse; also two granddaughters of this village, besides several other relatives.  Private funeral services were held at the late home Tuesday, November 15th, 1927, at two o'clock.  Burial made in Otselic Valley View cemetery [South Otselic, Chenango Co., NY]

 

Olive (Hutchings) Legg

DeRuyter Gleaner, April 24, 1930

Mrs. Olive Legg, 77 years of age, passed away at her home on Sunday, April 20th, 1930, after many months of illness. She was the daughter of David and Jerusha Hutchings, born at Northwest Corners in a log cabin, April 6, 1853.  On August 18th, 1873, she was united in marriage with S.B. Legg in the town of Truxton by Rev. George Trunbull.  Soon after their marriage they lived on what is known as the Swayle place, where Frank Smith now resides.  Forty-four years ago they moved into the town of Wilmert in the Adirondacks, where they home was only a log cabin situated about four miles into the woods.  Mr. Legg was a lumberjack during their abode there.  Here two boys were born to their union, Adna and Eben, both dying in infancy and within eleven months another son, Walter, was also born and he lived until fourteen years of age.  From Wilmert they moved to Grant, N.Y., residing there only two years and then moved to South Otselic and have lived at their present home for sixteen years.  At Grant, Mrs. Legg joined the Baptist church and faithfully lived up to her confession.  On December 13, 1929 she suffered a fall, being almost totally blind and since then had been confined to her bed where she was an ideal patient praying for the end to come, as she felt her place was needed by others.  During her many hours of terrible suffering from cancers and being unconscious for forty-eight hours she was soon relieved of her pains and troubles.  Four more children were born to this union, Jay Legg who was killed two years ago while deer hunting in the Adirondacks, Mrs. Ralph Sanderson of South Otselic and Mrs. Oral Huttleston of Blodgett mills, who tenderly cared for her and Judson Legg of Holland Patent.  Her husband S.B. Legg also survives her; a sister, Mrs. James Rogers of Norwich; five grandchildren, Mrs. Gerald Reynolds of Cortland, Elbert Sanderson of South Otselic, Asa Legg of Cornell, Dean Legg of Cincinnatus and Mrs. Alfred Rolls of Otselic Center; also five great grandchildren, Robert, Richard and Rosemary Reynolds of Cortland, Marie and Gladys Rolls of Otselic Center.  Funeral services were held Wednesday at 1 o'clock at the home of Mrs. Ralph Sanderson with Rev. J.C. Whitney officiating and Undertaker Woodley in charge   Interment was in Valley View cemetery [South Otselic, Chenango Co., NY]

 

Sylvanus B. Legg

DeRuyter Gleaner, February 4, 1932

The passing away of Sylvanus B. Legg occurred at 6 o'clock Monday morning, February 1, 1982, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Ralph Sanderson.  He was the son of Adna and Catherine Legg, born on January 27, 1850, in the town of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].  During infancy, his parents moved from Sherburne to South Otselic where they took up their abode in a log house which at that time was located near Harvey's Corners.  While residing there, occurred the death of his father.  Then with his mother moved to the Swayles place now owned by Frank Smith.  On August 18, 1873 Sylvanus was united in marriage to Olive Hutchings of Otselic, living with the former's mother until her death.  Then they moved to Herkimer county, residing in the towns of Wilmert and Grant for eight years. Seven children were born to their union, three of whom survive. Again Mr. and Mrs. Legg moved back to South Otselic.  In later years he became noted for making fish poles until his health began to fail.  In 1930 occurred the death of his beloved wife, Although his physical health was rugged, his mind failed fast and on Jan. 25th, suffered a slight shock, partially paralyzing his throat. The end came as a result of the second shock.  Two daughters, and a son survive him, Mrs. Ralph Sanderson of South Otselic, Mrs. Oral Huttleston of Blodgette Mills and Judson Legg of Holland Patent; also five grandchildren, Mrs. Gerald Reynolds of Cortland, Elbert Sanderson and Asa Legg of So. Otselic, Dean Legg of Cincinnatus and Mrs. Alfred Rolls of Otselic Center besides five great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.  Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Sanderson, with Undertaken Woodley in charge and Rev. J.C. Whitney officiating.  Interment was made in Otselic Valley View Cemetery [South Otselic, Chenango Co., NY]

Guilford High School Class of 1954 Part 2

Guilford High School Class of 1954

 

 

Neal Harrington

 

 

Albert Ives

 

 

David Ives

 

 

Joanna Miles

 

 

Patricia Pendlebury

 

 

Ken Ryan

Obituaries (November 1)

Samuel R. Beckwith

Sidney Record, April 15, 1899

In the death of Mr. Samuel R. Beckwith, Sidney [Delaware Co., NY] loses its oldest inhabitant in point of continuous residence, having been a permanent resident of Sidney since 1833.  For over forty years he was employed as a village blacksmith, and was known as a steady, reliable and hard working man and by his industry he acquired considerable property.  Mr. Beckwith's loss is very much regretted by a large circle of mourners.  He expired in the 75th year of his age and the funeral which was held from the family residence on Willow street last Tuesday, was attended by many sincere mourners who felt that they were bidding adieu to an old, life long friend.  He leaves two children, Henry and Samuel Beckwith, the former resides in New York and the latter is a resident of Sidney.  In 1871 Mr. Beckwith's son, Milton, was killed by the accidental discharge of a gun. The family wish to express their thanks for the kindness of many good friends during the illness, death and burial of their aged parent.

 

William Wallace Hastings

Sidney Record, April 15, 1899

Last Monday afternoon the mortal remains of William Wallace Hastings were consigned to the grave.  Death after many years of suffering came to his relief.  In spite of his long illness, his appearance was the sublimity of calm.  He apparently rested as one might at the close of a long journey, peacefully and quietly. The beautiful casket in which he reposed and the exquisite floral tokens lent impressive luster to the scene.  A magnificent floral pillow was sent from Albany by Mrs. S.S. Cole, of Des Moines, Iowa.  Mr. and Mrs. Willard Hastings contributed a wreath; a pretty basket of flowers was sent by Mr. and Mrs. S.F. Cumber; callas by Mrs. Myron Bundy, violets by Mrs. Wright and palms by Mrs. W. Wall Hastings.  The services were conducted at the residence of ex-postmaster Wood on liberty street by Rev. W.T. Edds and Rev. E. Melville and the interment services were held in Prospect Hill cemetery [Sidney, NY].  Of the immediate family, but two now remain, Mrs. Hastings and her young son Claude.  May they be spared to one another for many years to come is the earnest wish of many friends.  Mr. Hastings died in his 48th year.  Of the parent family, children of the last William Hastings, there are two surviving members namely, Willard M. Hastings, of Bainbridge and Mrs. S.S. Cole, wife of the eminent jurist of Des Moines, Iowa.

 

Electa Chase

Sidney Record, April 15, 1899

During the early hours of last Saturday, Death beckoned into its fold one of the gentlest and purest souls that ever tenanted the human tabernacle.  In the death of the venerable Mrs. Electa Chase a shining light is removed and the world loses a choice beloved spirit. The power of love was never better exemplified.  By gentleness and true loving kindness, she firmly welded her heart to that of others, binding them with the silken threads of a mother's warm love more firmly than bands of steel.

 

Mrs. Chase's death at the advanced age of 90 years was not unexpected.  For some time it had been apparent that the inevitable end could not be very remote. As in the seasons so we find it in the human life; there is an autumnal equinox when after the sun crosses the line, nature begins to decline. There is an unmarked line in all lives which once traversed leads to decline, death and decay.  Mrs. Chase passed that line ten years ago when a serious accident befell her while residing in Windsor.  One dark night she was found lying in the yard unconscious from a severe fall.  from that period was marked her decline.  But no accident could rob her genial, sweet disposition. The sun may be occasionally obscured but still it remains the sun.  So did this venerable mother warm all hearts with her genial sunshine of love, which death alone could blot out.

 

The funeral services were of a most simple, brief yet deeply touching character and were conducted at the residence of Mr. T.G. Smith last Monday at 12:30 p.m.  Rev. W.T. Edds conducted the services.  Many friends were gathered to pay their tribute of respect to the exalted memory of the deceased.  The interment was held in the family burying ground near North Afton [Chenango Co., NY], where Mrs. Chase now rests by the side of her beloved husband, Nathan B. Chase, who died in 1866.  Mrs. Chase leaves five devoted and exemplary children of middle age to mourn her loss, namely, James W. and Jarius Chase, of Windsor, N.Y., Mrs. T.G. Smith and Mrs. Garlick, of Sidney, N.Y. and Prof. Nathan B. Chase, of Cornwall, N.Y. The great grief of this family is shared by the deeply stirred hearts of many friends, who pour forth their condolences to these sorrowing ones.

 

Emma H. (Williams) Russell

Afton Enterprise, February 16, 1905

Early Tuesday morning, Feb. 7, 1905, Mrs. Emma H. Russell entered into the joys of eternal life.  She had been a patient sufferer for many years and since November 12, 1904 confined to her bed, lingering in extreme weakness, tenderly cared for by her husband and children in the home.  At the last, suddenly, without a moment's warning, her pure soul took its flight to join the throng of redeemed ones in heaven.  Always tenderly solicitous for the welfare of others, loving patient sympathetic, keenly appreciative of even the slightest act performed for her comfort, the memory of her beautiful sale-sacrificing life will be a constant benediction to all who knew and loved her.  Early in life she gave her heart to God and united with the M.E. church and was a truly devoted follower of the Saviour "who came not to be ministered unto, but to minister."  She lived in the immediate presence of God taking everything to Him in prayer. To one who thus knew God, death held no terrors.  It was only going home to her Father's house of many mansions, where Jesus had prepared a place for her, with a sure confidence that she would find a welcome there.

 

"Oh how sweet it will be in that beautiful land,

So free from all sorrow and pain;

With songs on our lips and with harps in our hands

To meet one another again."

 

She was the daughter of Wm. O. and Harriet Williams, born March 18, 1841, and married to Lewis l. Russell March 27, 1861.  Besides her husband she leaves a sorely bereaved family of children, Mrs. Gertrude L. Pearce, of Gilbertsville, Rev. O.G. Russell, of Herrick Center, Pa., George W. Russell, of Sidney, Minnie A., Mary E., Ernest R. and Edgar J., at home.  Also a large circle of near relatives and friends, who with the immediate family deeply mourn their loss. The funeral service was held at the home at 11 o'clock, Feb. 10. 1905.  Her pastor, Rev. F.A .Matteson, spoke comforting and appropriate words from the text which she had chosen, "We look for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God," Heb. 11:10.  Her four sons tenderly bore the beloved one to its last resting palce. The burial was in Glenwood cemetery [Afton, NY]

 

Pearl Ruso

Afton Enterprise, August 10, 1905

On Sunday, July 31st last at 8 o'clock in the morning, occurred the death of Pearl, wife of Abram Ruso.  She had been ill less than twenty-four hours, and her sudden and untimely death has saddened many hearts.  A husband and little boy less than twenty months old, beside an invalid mother, one sister and three brothers, are left to mourn her loss. The funeral was held the Wednesday following at 10 o'clock from her late residence on Searles Hill, Rev. Odell of Bainbridge officiating.  Interment was in Glenwood cemetery at Afton [Chenango Co., NY].  The funeral was largely attended by relatives and sympathetic friends who brought a profusion of flowers, wrought in various and artistic forms.

 

The light of her young life went down,

As sinks behind the hill

The glory of a setting star

Clear, sudden and still.

 

Fold her, oh father, in thine arms,

And let her henceforth be

A messenger of love between

our human hearts and thee.

 

The husband and immediate family, hereby extend thanks to friends and neighbors for the manifold acts of kindness shown in the their hour of affliction  It is sweet to be remembered in the lesser trials inseparable from earthly existence, but when death has recklessly entered our door and snatched from our midst a loved one; and all is dark, with scarcely a ray of light to pierce the seemingly impenetrable gloom, it is then, indeed sweet to be remembered.

 

No radiant pearl which created fortune wears,

No gem that twinkling hang from beauty's ear,

Nor the bright stars which night's blue arch adorns

Nor rising suns that yield the vernal morn,

Shine with so much luster as the tear that breaks

For others too, down virtue's manly cheek.

 

Kind friends be assured that the memory of your benevolent deeds and sympathetic tears will ever remain green and be indissolubly linked with that of the loved and lost one who now sleeps in yonder church yard awaiting the coming of an eternal morning.  O.B.I.

 

Orrin C. Beach

Afton Enterprise, August 10, 1905

Orrin C. Beach of Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY], lost his life in a serious wreck which occurred Friday morning about 3:30 o'clock near Sidney [Delaware Co., NY].  Mr. Beach was the engineer in charge of the east bound sleeper.  The first sign of danger which he received was the explosion of two torpedoes on the rails.  Mr. Beach applied the brakes and had no sooner done so than he sounded two short whistles, indicating that he saw the signal of a flagman and applied the emergency brakes and cut the whistle wide open.  In an incredible short time the train crashed into the rear of an east bound freight that was standing on the main line disabled by the breaking of a draw head.  The engine of the passenger train crashed through the caboose of the freight train. This derailed Mr. Beach's engine and threw it down the embankment at the right of the moving train. The tender followed and pulled the front trucks of the baggage car from the rails. The occupants of the passenger coaches were badly shaken up, but none were seriously injured.  Engineer Beach was found with his lower extremities pinioned beneath the boiler of the engine and badly crushed.  He was conscious about two hours before he passed away. It was not until the engine was raised at about 8 o'clock that the body was freed.  Mr. Beach is survived by a wife and two children.

Obituaries (October 29)

Alice DeEtte (Howe) Zoerb

Norwich Sun, December 27, 1927

Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]:  On Wednesday, December 21, at 11 o'clock the great Reaper visited the home of her daughter, Mrs. Herbert Smith, and the spirit of Mrs. Alice DeEtte Zoerb peacefully passed from the trials and triumphs of this life to the world of no end. She had been in feeble health for several years, although her release from physical suffering was not expected so soon.  Upon returning to her bed, death came instantly and she heard the Master's call.  Her maiden name was Alice DeEtte Howe, having been born in the town of Otsego [Otsego Co., NY] on March 16, 1859.  She was the daughter of James and Mary Howe.  On December 18, 1884, she was married at Sherman, Pa., to John Zoerb of Guilford by the Rev. J.M. Phillips.  Having no children from this union, they adopted a daughter who has most faithfully cared for her in her last days and tenderly closed her eyes as she fell asleep in Jesus.  Deceased was a member of the Baptist church of Mt. Upton and leaves the testimony of a gentle and thoughtful life together with an ever ready smile for her many friends.  On Friday noon the funeral services were held at the family home on Merchant street, the Rev. O.B. Young, pastor of the Guilford Methodist church, officiating. Those who survive are an adopted daughter, Mrs. Grace Smith, three grandchildren, Wayne, Annita and Marjorie Smith of Guilford; one brother, James A. Howe; one nephew, Frank Howe, and one niece, Mrs. Edith Leure of Sidney. The body now sleeps the dreamless sleep of death in the White Store cemetery [Chenango Co., NY] beside that of the husband who passed on several years ago.  Sincere sympathy of friends goes to the bereaved relatives.

 

Mrs. Samuel Stoddard

Chenango Union, April 30, 1885

Letter received here announce the death of Mrs. Samuel Stoddard, at Beloit, Wis., on Thursday, April 16th.  Mr Stoddard was obliged to leave the field of his missionary labors in Indian Territory on account of failing health of himself and wife. They spent some time in Colorado, with but slight improvement, and last fall went tot he home of Mrs. Stoddard's parents at Beloit, where her life on earth has closed.  Mr. S. is suffering from a throat difficulty, which has prevented his speaking aloud for some time.

 

Catherine M. Barnett

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, January 1, 1896

There passed out of life and from much bodily pain, on Saturday morning, a patient sufferer, Mrs. Catherine M. Barnett, at the house of her sister, Mrs. Sarah J. Sawyer, with whom she has made her home for some time past.  Mrs. Barnett was born in Norwich, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY], in 1821, and resided there till her coming to make her home here two years ago.  her funeral was held here yesterday afternoon and her remains placed in the tomb to await the arrival of her son from Nebraska, before deciding upon the place of burial.  Northampton (Mass.) Herald.

 

Viroqua Stork Tight Perry

Obituary Collection, Guernsey Memorial Library, Book 2, p93

Mrs. Viroqua Perry, 91, died Wednesday at her home, "The Pines," Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].  She is survived by a son, Charles Tight of Bainbridge; two daughters, Mrs. Maude Tripp of Endicott and Mrs. Nora Tripp of Binghamton; a grandson, Harry Tripp of Binghamton, and a sister, Mrs. Eva Harper of Colexico, Calif. The Rev. Walter H. Proof will conduct services at the Sherman Funeral home tomorrow at 2 and burial will follow in South Plymouth Cemetery [Chenango Co., NY].

 

Death Notices

Chenango Union, October 21, 1875

 

LYON:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 13, Mr. Samuel V. Lyon, aged 60 years.

 

PHETTEPLACE:  At the residence of his sister, Mrs. Jesse Mathewson in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 18, Mr. Thomas Phetteplace, aged 55 years.  Burial in White Store [Chenango Co., NY].

 

WESTCOTT:  At the residence of his son-in-law, Howard L. York, in Norwich, Oct. 19, 1875 Mr. Daniel K. Westcott, aged 78 years.  He was born and reared on the farm of his father, Amos Westcott in the east part of this town [Norwich, NY]

 

FRINK:  At the residence of her son-in-law, Robert McMinn in Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 6, 1875, Mrs. Delight Frink, aged 78 years 4 months.

 

BURDICK:  In Lincklaen [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 27th, Mrs. Betsey [Burdick], widow of T.H. Burdick, aged 87 years.

 

RUNYON:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 13, Julia [Runyon], wife of Geo. Runyon, aged 25 years.

 

Post listing, October 23 - 29, 2017

Listing of blog postings for the week of October 23-29, 2017.

Obituaries

Posted October 23, 2017

Joseph Shampang (South New Berlin, 1913)

Mary Goodnow (South New Berlin, 1913)

Alfred G. Bush (White Store, 1920)

Roy Cummings (Otselic, 1915)

Posted October 24, 2017
Josephine Seeley Coon Marlatte (Vestal, Bainbridge, 1914)
Charles Whitney (Afton, 1919)
Susan Grover (Afton, 1919)
Philetus Shaw (Afton, 1919)  Civil War Soldier
Cora Teller (Otselic, 1925)
Daniel Webster (South Otselic, 1920)  Civil War Soldier

Posted October 25, 2017
Minerva Cox Tallett (Cortland, Otselic, 1930)
Calvin G. Brown (Cincinnatus, 1931)
Leroy Palmer (South Otselic, 1933)
Elijah Cunningham (South Otselic, 1935)

Posted October 29, 2017
Nelson O. Wood (North Norwich, 18879)
James S. Bell (Windsor, Blunt, DK, 1885)  Lynched in Dakota
Joseph Sylvester Thurston (Guilford, 1925)
Maude (Bunnell) Whiting (Guilford, 1956)
Hattie M. (Ferris) Mead (Guilford, 1956)

 

Miscellaneous

Posted October 23, 2017

Chenango & Unadilla Valley 50 Years Ago - by S.S. Randall, written in 1872, Early Courts

Posted October 24, 2017
Class Portraits, 1959 Class of Bainbridge High School - Part 1

Posted October 25, 2017
Chenango & Unadilla Valley 50 Years Ago - by S.S. Randall, written in 1872, Early Courts

Posted October 26, 2017
Sherman Family clippings:  includes obits for Schuyler Sherman, Lydia Olendorf Sherman, Perry Sherman, Ralph Sherman



Posted October 29, 2017
Chenango & Unadilla Valley 50 years Ago - by S.S. Randall, written in 1872, Early Courts
Class Portraits, 1959 Class of Bainbridge High School - Part 2

BCHS Class of 1959 - Part 2

Bainbridge Central High School

Class of 1959

"Echo" 1959

 

 

Gary Norman Budine

 

 

Shirley Ann Calleia

 

 

Larry Lester Castle

 

 

Eleanor Marie Craig

 

 

Nancy Anne Crawford

 

 

 

Bruce Edward Dartt

 

Chenango & Unadilla Valley 50 Years Ago

Chenango and Unadilla Valley Fifty Years Ago

S.S. Randall

Chenango Telegraph, April 3, 1872

Early Courts

Continued from posting of October 25, 2017

The first Sheriff of Chenango, was Uri Tracy, of Oxford, appointed in 1798, on the first organization of the County.  He was succeeded in 1801, by Nathaniel Locke, Esq., who gave place in 1805 to Anson Cary.  Judge Cary was succeeded in 1808 by William Munroe, and in 1810 was superseded by Isaac Foote.  Col. Munroe was re-appointed in 1811, and Judge Foote again succeeded him in 1813.  Samuel Campbell, Esq., of Columbus, succeeded Judge Foote in 1815, and in 1819, Col. Munroe was again re-appointed.  He was succeeded in 1821 by Thompson Mead, of Norwich. These conflicting appointments were the result of political reverses and triumphs, under the regime of the old Council of Appointment, prior to 1821.  Gen. Mead was elected for the official term of three years, immediately after the adoption of the new Constitution, and was succeeded in 1825 by Samuel A. Smith, of Guilford.  In 1829, Gen. Augustus C. Welch, of New Berlin, was elected, and in 1831, Amos A. Franklin, of Oxford, who was succeeded in 1834 by Jabez Robinson, also of Oxford, and in 1839, by William Hatch, of Greene.

 

The earliest records of the County, were kept by S. Sidney Breese, at Cazenovia.  Uri Tracy was his successor as County Clerk in 1806, and transferred the records to his residence in Oxford.  In 1815 he gave place to David G. Bright of Norwich, to which the records were again removed, and where they have since remained.  In 1819, Perez Randall succeeded Mr. Bright, and with the exception of a brief term of occupancy by Nathan Chamberlin, and afterwards Dr. William Mason, held the office of County Clerk, by election and appointment until 1831, when he was defeated by Col. James K. Pike, and in 1834, re-elected, and held the office until his death in 1840--a period in all of upwards of sixteen years.  Cyrus Wheeler became the temporary occupant of the place, and was succeeded by Alfred Purdy in 1839, John Latham in 1842, Burr B. Andrews in 1845, and Nelson Pelett in 1848.  Among the Deputy Clerks were Austin Hyde, Smith M. Purdy, M. Graham Bright, Paul W. Latham, Samuel S. Randall, Philander B. Prindle and James M.D. Carr.

 

The End

Obituaries (October 29)

Nelson O. Wood

Chenango Union, January 2, 1879

Painful Accident:  Our former townsman, Nelson O. Wood, Esq., met with a serious accident on Monday evening last, soon after his return from this village to his farm near Plasterville.  He had put out his team, and while leading one horse from the stable, to water, in passing behind the other the latter kicked, upon which the horse he was leading sprang forward against Mr. Wood, throwing him violently to the floor, and breaking his right hip.  Dr. Lewis, of North  Norwich, and Dr. Avery, of this village, were called, who reduced the fracture, and the patient is comfortable.

 

Chenango Union, January 16, 1879

On Wednesday evening of last week, Nelson O. Wood expired at his residence in North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], from the effects of injuries received in his horse barn on the evening of December 31st, an account of which we published at the time.  For a few days after the accident it was thought he might recover, but his case took a more alarming turn, pneumonia set in, and notwithstanding the efforts of physicians and friends, death ensued.  Deceased was the only son of the late Newell Wood, who early settled in North Norwich, (then Norwich) on the farm upon which Nelson was born, and upon which he spent the greater portion of his life, acquiring by unceasing toil a handsome property.  In politics Mr. Wood was a Whig, and afterwards republican, and repeatedly represented North Norwich on the Board of Supervisors.  Removing to this village several years since, he was chosen Supervisor of Norwich for one year, and was for one year a Trustee of the village. Reverses came upon him, and within a few years his well earned competency was gone--he was a poor man, and that through no extravagance on his part--and he returned to the old farm, now owned by another, to end his days in toil and hardship, where he had begun them sixty-nine years ago.  Both in public and in private life Mr. Wood discharged his duties faithfully and well, and although stripped of his hard earnings, his integrity was unquestioned and he leaves behind him  a name untarnished, while his memory will be cherished by a large circle of friends, who knew his worth.  Deceased was never married, and leaves one sister, the last of the family.  The funeral was held at his late residence, on Sunday afternoon, and was attended by Masons and Odd Fellows of this village, of which lodges he was a member, as well as of the commandery and Encampment.  Members of these orders from other Lodges were also in attendance, as also a large number of friends and neighbors.  Rev. S. Scoville conducted the services, and the remains were interred in the cemetery east of Plasterville [Chenango Co., NY]

 

James S. Bell - Lynched in Dakota

Sidney Record, April 23, 1885

An Associated Press dispatch from Blunt, Dak. announces that James S. Bell (a former resident of Windsor [Broome Co., NY]), the murderer of Small, was taken from jail yesterday by 25 masked men and hanged to the flagstaff of the court house. After the mob had dispersed, officers cut the man down.  He was alive; but died soon afterwards.  The lynchers had two ropes and also intended to hang Bennett, the accomplice of Bell, but were alarmed by the ringing of the telephone.  The particulars of the crime given in an earlier dispatch from Blunt are as follows:  Some time ago, Forest G. Small, a lawyer, was missing, and a man named Bell, with whom he had some difficulty was suspected.  Ferdinand Bennett has confessed that he was present when the murder was committed, that Bell waited for Small about eight miles north of here; that while Small was drawing his receipt for fifteen dollars in settlement of their difference, Bell killed him with a hatchet and then buried the body, at the same time threating Bennett with a like fate if he revealed the fact.  A party went to the spot indicated by Bennett and exhumed the body and the hat[chet].  An examination of the remains disclosed three cuts and four contusions. The skull was broken in five places, and one of the cuts on the throat severed the jugular vein.

 

Joseph Sylvester Thurston

Sidney Enterprise, December 31, 1925

On December 23rd, Joseph Sylvester Thurston, a well known resident of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], passed away at the age of 76 years, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. George Medbury at Rockdale, where he has made his home for some time.  Deceased was born in Elmira, May 12, 1849.  He was the son of Joseph and Aruby Barnes Thurston. Early in life, he was married to Syntha Alice Dibble and from this union three children were born.  On Saturday last the funeral was held at the home from which he died with burial in the family plot at Maple Wood cemetery, Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY]. Those who survive are one son, Joseph Thurston of Factoryville, Pa., two daughters, Mrs. Effie Medbury of Rockdale and Mrs. Daisy Hyatt of Otego; ten grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and a brother, George Thurston of Maple Grove. The funeral services were conducted by the Rev. E.H. Alger of Otego, assisted by Rev. J.W. Bump.

 

Maude (Bunnell) Whiting

Bainbridge News, September 13, 1956

Mrs. Maude B. Whiting, 85, and widow of Hiram S. Whiting, died at her home in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] Sunday night, Sept. 2, 1956, after a long illness.  Her death occurred on the property owned by the family since 1795.  Maude B. Whiting was born on May 25, 1871, the daughter of Mary E. (Hull) Bunnell and Kossuthe E. Bunnell.  She was born in Guilford and a few years after her marriage in Guilford the family moved to Brooklyn where they lived for 25 years.  She then returned to Guilford to live from that time until her death. She was a member of Christ Episcopal Church, Guilford, and for many years was directress of the Altar Guild. She is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Edward Grabow, Sr., of Guilford; two brothers, Walter E. Bunnell, of Carmel, Calif, and Arthur L. Bunnell, of Riverside, Calif.; two grandsons, Edward Grabow, Jr., of Guilford Lake, and Howard Jeffrey, Jr, Norwich; great grandchildren, Sally and Mary Grabow, of Guilford Lake, and Pamela and Howard Jeffrey, the third, of Norwich; several nieces and one nephew.  Final rites were held from her home Wednesdays afternoon at 2 o'clock with the Rev. Robert Marks officiating.  Burial in Sunset Hill Cemetery [Guilford, NY].  Funeral arrangements were by the Seymour Funeral home, in Oxford.

 

Hattie M. (Ferris) Mead

Bainbridge News, September 13, 1956

Mrs. Hattie M. Mead, widow of the late Fred Mead, passed away Wednesday morning Sept. 5, at the home of her late husband's niece, Mrs. Leland Wade, where she had resided for quite some time.  Mrs. Mead had been confined to her bed for several weeks before her death. A life-long resident of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] she was born on Oct. 23, 1862, and had reached the advanced age of 93 years. She was the daughter of Evaline (Bradley) Ferris and Oliver Ferris. She was a member of Christ Episcopal Church, from which the funeral was held Saturday afternoon, Sept. 8, the Rev. Robert marks officiating.  Burial in Sunset hill Cemetery [Guilford, NY], There were no survivors.