Obituaries (March 24)

Rebecca (Hunt) Bacon

Chenango Union, May 9, 1889

Died, on Sunday afternoon, April 29th at her home in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Rebecca Bacon, widow of the late Loren Bacon.  With her death, the chapter of life's book, which told the family history of her own house, was ended.  Father, mother and son became an unbroken family in one of the "many mansions" promised and prepared for them, on that Sunday afternoon.  Rebecca Bacon was the daughter of Charles Hunt, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]; of a family of eight children, five brothers and sisters survive her--Andrew, James and Jane Hunt, of Norwich, C.C. Hunt, of Oxford, and Mrs. Joseph Smith of Syracuse.  Mrs. Bacon's married life was spent in Norwich, where her exemplary Christian character endeared her to all who knew her.  She was a faithful wife, a devoted mother, an unselfish and affectionate sister, a good neighbor, a loyal friend.  The Baptist church of Norwich has lost in her one of its most faithful members; the circle of family and friends, one who was dear to them to all her relations. The life on earth is ended, but we believe she entered on that Sunday, when she bade adieu to this world and its shadows, into that broader and more beautiful sphere of existence--the life of eternal blessedness.

Death's Harvest in Bainbridge

The Norwich Sun, August 26, 1907

Rath Sweet

Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]:  The funeral of Rath Sweet, who died on Monday at the home of his parents on Pruyn Hill, was held on Thursday, the Rev. G.E. Van Woert officiating.  He graduated at the Bainbridge High school in 1901 and the following year went to Schenectady where he was employed in the General Electric plant. About six months ago he was taken ill with tuberculosis and so returned to his home in this village.  He regained his health rapidly and in his work in Schenectady, but the climate did not agree with him and in July he was forced to give up his work and return home.  He gradually failed, his death occurring early Monday morning.  He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Sweet, and one sister Mary, of this village. The remains were taken to Afton [Chenango Co., NY] for burial.

Charles Terry

Yesterday morning at 1 o'clock occurred the death of Charles Terry at his home in West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].  After doing a hard day's work on the road, he retired feeling as well as usual, but about midnight his wife was awakened by his hard breathing.  She tried to awaken him but was unable to do so and he died about 1 o'clock.  It is thought that his death was due to heart trouble.  He is survived by is wife and an adopted daughter, Mr.s Frank Hoyt of this village. The funeral will be held at his late home on Sunday at 1:30 p.m., the Rev. G.E. Van Woert officiating.

Charles Sisson

Charles Sisson died at his home on the Abner Searles farm west of this village Thursday evening at 10 o'clock.  His body will be taken to East Sidney [Delaware Co., NY] on Saturday, where the funeral will be held in the afternoon.

Mr. Casler

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 11, 1855

Mr. Casler, a revolutionary veteran, died at German Flats [Chenango Co., NY] on the 18th ult., at the advanced age of ninety-five years.  he was present when Butler, the tory, was shot, by an Indian.  He also helped set the picket about the fort at Herkimer for our country's defense. When such a veteran is brought down to the grave by the weight of years, we all feel like taking the place of mourners.  And as they are fading from our midst, may our prayers be that the mantle of their patriotism fall on their descendants.

Death Notices

Chenango American, October 11, 1855

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst., Mary F. [Yeomans], daughter of Peter Yeomans, aged 11 years.

In Willet, Cort. Co., on the 6th inst., Benjamin H. Sternberg, aged 26 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Thomas Milner, son of Joseph C. Allen, aged 4 months.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., Miss Hannah Cary, aged 53 years.

In Oxford, on the 4th inst., of croup, Anna Glover [Van Wagner], daughter of William Van Wagner, Esq., aged 2 years and 10 days.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 25, 1855

At Willet [Cortland Co., NY], Oct. 24th, Caroline M. [Egleston], daughter of Seth Egleston, aged 13 years.

Marriages (March 23)

Marriage Notices

Chenango American, Greene, NY, September 20, 1855

At St. Mathew's Church, Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], on the 6th inst., by Rev. Samuel H. Norton, Nicholas D. Clapp, Esq. of Chicago, Illinois, to Miss Mary Taylor McMahon, of the former place.

In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., by Rev. W.G. Queal, Mr. Hiram Davis to Miss Eliza Parsons, both of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 20th ult., by James Ferguson, Esq., Mr. Crystal Fanning to Miss Mary E. Trayford, all of the above place.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, September 27, 1855

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., by Rev. H. Callahan, Henry B Wilcox, of Utica [Oneida Co., NY] and Harriet R. [Chapman], daughter of Wm. E. Chapman, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

At the Parsonage, in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst., by Rev. D.W. Thurston, Mr. Robert B. Crandall to Miss Kezia Elizabeth Sayles.

Also, at the same time and place, by the same, Mr. William B. Crandall, and Miss Hannah M. Wood, all of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th of June, by Rev. R.I. Benedict, Mr. Asa Baldwin, to Miss Harriet M. Park, all of the above place.

In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], by Rev. C. Starr, Mr. Lorin C. Edmunds, of Exeter [Otsego Co., NY], to Miss Julia A. Backus, of Pittsfield [Otsego Co., NY].

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 4, 1855

In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 2d, by Rev. Z. Paddock, D. D., Mr. George M. Lyon, to Miss Eliza C. Lewis, all of this town.

In South Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d ult., by Rev. Geo. Balcom, Mr. Levi Seward to Miss Chloe Burtch, both of the above place.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 28d ult., by Rev. H. Gee, Mr. Joseph Willson to Mrs. Eliza Ann Odle Brown, both of the above place.

In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 27th, by Laman Ingersoll, Esq., Mr. Warren B. Decker to Miss Desiah Martindale, both of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

In Hamilton [Madison Co., NY], on the 20th ult., by Rev. M.S. Platt, Mr. Cornelius L. Durfee to Miss Amanda P. Simmons, both of the above place.

In Clarkville [Saratoga Co., NY], on Wednesday evening, Sept. 19th, by Rev. J. Clark, Mr. Geo. W. Holman of Clayville [Oneida Co., NY], and Miss Barbara M. [Clark], daughter of Hosea B. Clark, of the former place.

In Lyons [Wayne Co., NY], Sept. 19th, at the Presbyterian Church, by Rev. G.R. Rudd, Mr. O.K. Klinck, to Sophia J. [Rozell], daughter of David R. Rozell, of that village.

Obituaries (March 23)

S.P. Davis

Chenango Union, October 16, 1879

Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]:  S.P. Davis, for several years a resident of our place, and at the time of his death residing at South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], died quite suddenly at his mother-in-law's here, on the night of the 10th inst.  Mr. Davis had been in poor health for a number of years, but Thursday came to our place to obtain work at his trade, that of a blacksmith.  Friday he was about the village, but feeling no better, called on Dr. Spencer.  He retired early Saturday night, and when the family retired was apparently sleeping soundly.  Saturday morning his daughter, who was visiting at her grandmother's, went to call him, and found him dead. He had evidently been dead some hours.  He was fifty-three years old, and leaves a wife and three daughters.

Thomas Rooney

Chenango Union, February 28, 1878

Monday afternoon last, a message came to Coroner Avery, of this village, to the effect that the body of a man had been found in a lot on the farm of Albert Davis, in the North part of the town of Guilford, near the Oxford line [Chenango Co., NY].  Dr. Avery at once visited the spot, accompanied by A. Cary, undertaker. The body was found lying upon its left side, in a "swail" in a pasture lot, frozen and had to be cut from the ice before its removal.  An inquest was held at the Court House, on Tuesday forenoon, where the evidence showed that the deceased was named Thomas Rooney; that he resided in Guilford, and had been until recently remployed as section hand on the Midland Railroad; that he visited this village on Monday of last week, with a friend; that he drank while here, and had a bottle with him, from which he imbibed while on his way home in the afternoon; that the two became separated in the evening, the friend going to his house a short distance off, and returned soon after to search for his missing companion; that he failed to find him; and that for days afterwards the search was kept up by neighbors, until the body was found about noon on Monday, having lain for nearly a week in an open lot, near where teams had daily passed in the usual business of the farm.  At the inquest on Tuesday, Dr. H.H. Beecher, D.R. McDonald, John Slocum, Albert King, Harry F. Hickok, Ed Tiffany, Hosea W. Avery, W.A. White, H.B. VanCott and W.K. Packer were called as jurors, with Dr. Beecher as foreman. Having viewed the remains at Cary's undertaking rooms, the jury repaired to the Court House, where testimony was taken.

The jury after deliberation, rendered the following verdict:  The jury do say, upon their oath aforesaid, that the said Thomas Rooney came to his death on a field in the rear of a house belonging to Albert Davis, in the town of Guilford, on the evening of February 18th, 1`878, by Freezing, and in no other way.

Deceased was apparently nearly forty years of age, and has a wife and four children residing in Guilford.  He was comfortably clothed, and when found had a silver watch in his pocket.  His remains were interred at the Catholic cemetery in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on Tuesday afternoon.

Frank C. DeForest

March 1919

Frank C. DeForest died last Saturday evening, March 22, at about eight o'clock, after an illness of one week of pneumonia.  His funeral will be held this afternoon at 1 o'clock at the Baptist church, his pastor, Rev. V.G. Shaffer officiating, assisted by Rev. A.H. Landmesser.  Interment will be in the cemetery at Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].  Mr. DeForest was born at Sanford [Broome Co., NY] 28 years ago.  On July 5th, 1911, he was united in marriage to Miss Susan Palmer of this village and about two years ago they came from Bainbridge to Sidney Center [Delaware Co., NY] to make their home.  He was an enterprising young farmer, and well liked by his associates, a good neighbor and loving husband and father.  He is survived by his wife and three children, Leona, a little girl of about seven, and two little boys of one and three years of age.  He also eaves his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Watson DeForest of Bainbridge; two brothers, Bert and Ray, and three sisters, Mrs. L.D. Hotaling and Mrs. H. Seeley of Bainbridge, and Mrs. Will Carl of Binghamton.

Carrie (Clark) Ireland

Bainbridge News, October 1933

The funeral services for Mrs. Carrie Ireland, who died October 12 at the home of her son, James Ireland, in Bixby street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], were held Sunday afternoon at the residence.  Rev. G.H. Orvis, pastor of the Presbyterian Church, officiated.  Interment was in the family plot at West Bainbridge cemetery.  Mrs. Ireland had attained the age of 76 years, having been born on May 5, 1857, in the Town of Bainbridge, the daughter of Alvin and Anna Baker Clark. She had lived in West Bainbridge on a farm for 52 years with her late husband, Alson Ireland, before coming to the village to reside with her son, James, the only remaining member of the family.

Death Notices

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 4, 1855

In Albany, Sept. 13th, J. Stacy Phelon, formerly student of Oxford Academy [Chenango Co., NY], aged 29 years.

In Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult., Mrs. Lucretia Blood, wife of Mr. Charles Blood, aged 65 years.

In Delhi Centre, Michigan, Mr. John R. Aldrich, late of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], aged about 36 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th ult., Mr. Lester Eccleston, aged 26 years.

In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th ult., Mrs. Parmelia Nicholson, aged 67 years.

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st ult., Mr. Jared Stiles, aged 16 years.

Obituaries (March 22)

Richard P. Showin

Northern Christian Advocate, October 25, 1848

Richard P. Showin, died of consumption, in Louisville, St. Lawrence county, Sept. 6, 1848, aged 56 [69?] years.  He was born in New Hampshire in 1779.  He removed from thence to Canada, and then to Louisville, New York state in 1815, where he lived until he died.  Mr. Showin was one of the early settlers in Louisville.  He brooked the difficulties and toils of a new country.  He was distinguished for mildness, honesty, and generosity of character, and for kindness and affability of manners, and was highly esteemed and beloved by all his neighbors. We thought he met with a change of heart about nine years ago, and died in tranquility, reposing confidence in the Lord Jesus Christ.  He has left a widowed companion and three children to mourn their irreparable loss.  May the Lord pour upon them the abundant consolations of his grace.    O. Lathrop, Norfolk, Sept. 27, 1848

 

Walter Samuel Clark

The Guilford News, February 25, 1931

Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]:  Walter Samuel Clark died at the home of his son, Arthur Clark, at 1 o'clock Friday afternoon, Feb. 13, following an illness of three weeks.  Mr. Clark was 74 years old, having been born in Brookfield, O., July 9, 1856.  He was married March 19, 1876, to Miss Kate Draper McMullin, and they resided in Brookfield until 1912 when they came to New York state. Mr. Clark bought the Jim Phelps farm near Sidney, but at the time of the World War he sold it and purchased a farm in Bainbridge which in turn he sold about three years ago, since when Mr. and Mrs. Clark have lived with their children.  He is survived by his wife, one son, Arthur Clark of Bainbridge, three daughters, Mrs. W.E. Wheeler of Brookfield, O., Mrs. Elsie Struble of Binghamton and Mrs. McKelvey of Binghamton. Ten grandchildren and twelve greatgrandchildren also survive him. The funeral service was held from the home of his son, Arthur Clark on Pruyn hill, Monday afternoon, Feb. 16, the officiating clergyman being Rev. Cecil Plumb of Guilford Center, assisted by Rev. Orvis of the Bainbridge Presbyterian church.  Interment was in Prospect Hill cemetery, Sidney [Delaware co., NY].

 

Rev. Oscar R. Beardsley

Oxford Times, May 31, 1905

Rev. O.R. Beardsley, whose serious illness was announced last week, died early in the morning of Thursday, at his residence on Scott street [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY].  He was attacked with pneumonia, other diseases set in and ended a well spent life.  Mr. Beardsley accepted the pastorate of the Oxford Universalist church July 19, 1903, and during his residence here not only endeared himself to the members of his congregation but won the high regard of our people generally.  Liberal minded, companionable, he was a pleasant man to meet in church and out.  His loss to the church and to the societies with which he affiliated will be keenly felt.  During his pastorate here he also had charge of the Universalist church at Tyner and supplied the pulpits at Sherburne and Poolville.  He was a member of Afton Lodge, F.&A.M., Vallonia Chapter, R.A.M.; acting chaplain of Oxford Lodge and chaplain of Lafayette chapter, Order of Eastern Star of this village, and also held the same office to the local and county Grange.

 

Rev. Oscar R. Beardsley was born in the town of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], Aug. 30, 1841.  His parents, Seba  and Rhoda Beardsley, were of New England ancestry and removed from Delaware county to Coventry during the anti-rent trouble in that county.  He in early youth determined to enter the ministry, but the death of his father left the care of the farm in his hands and he was denied the cherished desire of a theological course of study.  However, with a common school education and two or three terms of study at Afton academy, he gained the end sought for and was ordained to the ministry, in the intervals of study working at the carpenter's trade and teaching school.  His first regular charge was at Nicholson and Foster, Pa., Brooklyn, Pa., later being added to his pastorate which he held from 1884 to 1891.  Resigning this charge he for two years was State missionary of Pennsylvania, preaching his faith wherever sent.  Then he held pastorates at Oswego, N.Y., Cicero, N.Y., Scranton, Pa., and Sherman, N.Y., his last charge being Oxford.

 

In March 1846, Mr. Beardsley married Alice Hackett of Colesville, who died in 1898.  Three children were born to them, two of whom survive, Paul D. Beardsley of Afton, and Mrs. Llewellyn Shields of Scranton, Pa.  Deceased is survived by two brothers, George and David Beardsley of Alba, Pa., and two sisters, Mrs. Julia F. Reed of Afton and Mrs. Harriet Kasson of North Colesville.

 

Funeral services were held in the Universalist church Saturday morning.  The church was filled.  the Masonic fraternity attended in a body, a delegation of the Order of the Eastern Star were present, together with representatives of the Grange, members of his congregations here, at Tyner, Sherburne and Poolville, and prominent citizens. The service was in charge of Rev. Charles Kramer, a Universalist clergyman from Nicholson, Pa., all the Protestant clergymen of the village taking part. Rev. Mr. Kramer made the opening address referring to the deceased clergyman's life and character.  Rev. Mr. Shipman of the Methodist church read a passage of Scripture, and was followed by Rev. Mr. Parsons of the Baptist church, who spoke of the work of the late pastor in his charge here.  Rev. Mr. Harris of the Congregational church offered prayer, and Rev. Mr. Broughton of the Episcopal church closed the service with a tender tribute to the deceased as a man and a Mason. The service was a remarkable one in some respects. The unity of the village clergymen was noted by those who attended from a distance, and the large attendance and tributes paid the deceased impressed all.  The body was conveyed to Afton [Chenango Co., NY] for interment, services for better convenience being held in the Methodist church in that village Sunday afternoon.  It was one of the largest attended funeral ever held there. Afton Lodge, F.&A.M., had charge of the commitment at the grave.  A delegation from Oxford lodge was present.

 

Death Notices

Chenango American, Greene, NY, September 27, 1855

 

In Triangle [Broome Co., NY], Sept. 14th, Daniel G. Saxton, aged 32 years 6 months and 20 days.

In Hamilton [Madison Co., NY], after a lingering and painful illness, Charles Parker, aged 63 years.

Suddenly at the Hartford Retreat, in Hartford, Ct., on the morning of the 11th inst., Justus M. Masters, Esq., formerly of Hamilton [Madison Co., NY].

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., Elisha B. Smith, Jr., only son of Hon. Elisha B. Smith, aged 1 year and 12 days.

In Cazenovia [Madison Co., NY], suddenly, Nelson R. [Reddy], son of Rev. Wm. B. and E.C. Reddy, aged 1 year and 8 months.

 

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 17, 1855

 

In East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., David F. Smith, aged 46 years.

 

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th isn't., Jotham [Rounds], son of Joseph and Catharine Rounds, aged 14 years.

 

In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., Nathan Phillips, in the 79th year of his age.

Obituaries (March 21)

Catharine (Eaton) Charters

Northern Christian Advocate, October 25, 1848

Catharine E. Charters, wife of Joseph Charters, and daughter of Josiah and Lydia Eaton, departed this life on the 4th of August, aged 37 years.  She experienced religion at the age of eighteen, under the labors of Rev. Henry Halsted, and soon united herself to the M.E. Church, and maintained the fellowship of her God and brethren through her whole Christian course.  her last sickness lasted about ten days, which was very distressing.  She manifested unshaken confidence in God while she enjoyed her reason.  A few of her last days she was not in possession of her reason, but we have every reason to believe that she now is associated with that company where the wicked cease from troubling and the weary are at rest.    Jesse Pomeroy

Anna M. Juliand

Chenango American, Greene, NY, September 20, 1855

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d ult., Miss Anna M. [Juliand], daughter of Col. J. Juliand, aged 20 years.  In the circumstances attending this sad bereavement, there is much to sooth the sorrows of those who have been smitten.  Dreaded as the Consumption usually is, from its deceptive character, and from the certainty, where it is deeply seated, of a fatal issue, there is yet the redeeming feature in connection with it that it does not, like many other diseases, burying its victims to the grave without time for looking the great facts of another world full in the face. Though debility and weakness and the exhausting cough, cause the heart at times to sink, yet there are large opportunities for calm meditation, devout exercises and patient obedience to the Divine will. And when these facilities are embraced, as in the case of the young friend who has left us, they were, the sick room becomes a consecrated spot, a bethel of the soul, where pious hopes gather great strength, and holy thoughts and affections reach their fullest development and scope.  And when the heart has become weaned from the work, when the Christian sees that it is God's purpose to cut the ties of life, and prepared calmly yet earnestly for the great change, there is then a grandeur and dignity encircling the sick room and the couch of wasting and death.  

The great Dr. Young in his brilliant Poem, the Night Thoughts has called "the deathbed the detector of the heart."  If this be so there are the memories that cluster around the closing life of the young Disciple of Christ, replete with all that is grateful and soothing. The sting is extracted from death when that last enemy is met as He was by her whose decease we are now noticing.  In her experience the Christian graces show out the more brightly, as flesh wasted, as exhaustion increased, as death grew near.  Though she was of nervous constitution of body, the hour of dissolution was shorn of its terrors.  While others wept she was tranquil.  No distraction of thoughts, no filmy discernment, no unworthy fears, distressed her mind.  She had thrown her soul upon the bleeding cross of a pardoning Savior and she felt safe, though with no undue confidence in thought that she could do in the task of Salvation.  Calmly and in frequent prayer and in the use of all prescribed ordinances, she awaited the final hour.  It came and found her watching.

Sweetly she bade adieu to the loved that pressed around her.  With unbroken voice she spoke the farewell words.  It was a hallowed scene such as Heaven gazes at with joy.  It seemed as though the world of spirits was very near us then, as though the spiritualized imagination could catch the rustling of angel wings as they waited to bear the parting spirit to the bosom of celestial peace. She has gone. The family circle is broken. The heart of youthful friendship is sad. The tear starts to the eye of loved companions as her name is breathed. But her record is on high, and her rest is sweet.  Soon many of those among us who knew and loved her in life,

"Shall meet her on that peaceful shore,

Where parting words and heard no more."

Death Notices

Chenango American, Greene, NY, September 20, 1855

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst., J. Randolph [Crain], son of Gen. Hendrick Crain, aged 18 years.

At King's Settlement [Chenango Co., NY], on Monday, the 3d inst., Charlotte [Buell], wife of Elijah Buell, in the 64th year of her age.

In Ellington, Chau. Co., on the 17th ult., Julia Emeline [Mead], wife of Orvill L. Mead, and daughter of David P. Judson, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 32 years.

In South Ne3w Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], August 21st, Jane A. [Griswold], wife of Mathew C. Griswold, and daughter of Elbridge G. Owens, aged 16 years, 4 months.

In Butternuts [Otsego Co., NY], on the 24th ult, Jacob Walton Morris, aged 63 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Mr. Philip Cook, aged 78 years.

In Shoal Water Day, (Washington Territory)_ on the 21st of March last, by drowning, Mr. Oscar A. Hughston, eldest son of Mr. James Hughston, of East Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 26 years.

At Waterbury, Conn., on the 30th ult., Dea. Hector Porter, formerly of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY]

In Guilford Centre [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst., Samuel Kent, aged 81 years.

In Coventryville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst., Woodward Warren, Esq., aged 64 years.

Obituaries (March 20)

Lydia Caird

Northern Christian Advocate, October 25, 1848

Lydia Caird, wife of James Caird, died at her residence in Antwerp, Jefferson County, N.Y. on Sunday, August 13th, in the 54th year of her age.  Sister Caird was married in 1822.  She soon after experienced religion and united with the M.E. Church, of which she remained a consistent member till called to join the Church above.  From the time she gave her heart to God, and her name to the Church, she ever manifested that the work was of God.  Her zeal, her devoted life, her charity, her love for all who bore the image of her Master, all manifested the excellency of the religion of the Bible--seldom was her seat vacant in the sanctuary of God.  Neither distance nor the inclemency of the weather, nor poor health would keep her from the palce she loved so well, where the saints of God were met for worship.  Her house and her heart were ever open to the wants of the poor.  Her's was always a welcome home for the ministers of the cross, and many of the brethren of the Black River and Oneida Conference, will remember the cheerful welcome and kind attention to their wants.  Her death, as might have been expected, was peaceful, her confidence in her Redeemer unshaken, and her testimony encouraging to all who witnessed her peaceful exit.  She has left a fond husband and an only daughter, and truly a large circle of friends to mourn her loss; yet they mourn not without hope, for they trust in the same gracious Redeemer, and rejoice in the same blessed gospel.  

E.C.C., Antwerp, Sept. 27, 1848.

Sally A. (Odell) Carrington

Afton Enterprise, March 2, 1916

The death of Mrs. A.B. Carrington occurred at the home of her son S.H. Carrington in Binghamton [Broome Co., NY] Monday, Feb. 28th, 1916, at the age of 85 years.  Mrs. Carrington lived with her son, C.E. Carrington, but was making her home temporarily in Binghamton while Mr. and Mrs. C.E. Carrington were in the Southwest.  Mrs. Carrington was born Sept. 23, 1831, and was married to Abijah B. Carrington, Nov. 11, 1850, her maiden name being Sally A. Odell. She is survived by three sons, C.E. Carrington of Afton, S.H. Carrington of Binghamton and W.L. Carrington of Auburn. The funeral services will be held in Binghamton today, Thursday, and the body brought to this place for interment in Glenwood Cemetery [Afton, Chenango Co., NY] this afternoon.

Eva A. (Adams) Lewis

Sidney Enterprise, April 19, 1916

It is with a feeling of the deepest regret that we are called upon to chronicle the death of one of Sidney's most highly esteemed ladies, Mrs. Richard Lewis, the beloved wife of Richard Lewis, who passed to her eternal home Monday morning, April 17, at 10:30 o'clock after a long and painful illness of a cancerous trouble at the age of 53 years.  With her passing away ended a life that has been an example of Christian and cheerful fortitude; a true woman idealized in her home by the loving husband and son and who during the few years that she had lived in Sidney has won her way into the hearts of a host of friends by her good cheer and sympathy which was always readily extended and always appreciated, especially by those in trouble and on whom affliction had fallen.  Her aim in life was to find the virtues of those with whom she came in contact rather than their faults, and by so doing had won the love and esteem of many. She was a true friend and neighbor and her death will be a great loss to the community and especially the section where she lived.  To the bereaved family, the heartfelt sympathy of all is extended.  Her exemplification of the highest Christian ideals will have earned for her a home in the House of Many Mansions.  The family came to Sidney [Delaware Co., NY] from Whitney's Point [Broome Co., NY] nine years ago.  Her maiden name was Eva A. Adams, a daughter of George and Abigail Adams of Whitney's Point.  She was untied in marriage to Mr. Lewis 25 years ago last Christmas, and their united life of a quarter of a century has been one of complete happiness. She is survived by her husband and one son, Paul, both of whom were particularly devoted to their wife and mother, and during her last illness gave her every loving care and attention they could devise.  Her affliction first took form about four years ago, and at that time she underwent a surgical operation which gave relief for a long period.  About one year ago, the malady again seized her and she gradually failed in strength until the end.  She is also survived by one sister, Mrs. Belle M. Waite of Binghamton. The funeral will be held from her late home on Winegard avenue this morning, at 10 o'clock and the remains will be taken to Binghamton on the train leaving Sidney at 11:20 for interment in Floral Park cemetery. Rev. William Barnfather, pastor of the Baptist church, of which she was an active member as long as her health permitted, will officiate.  There will undoubtedly be a large attendance of those who loved her and knew her in life and many beautiful flowers will be mute testimony of that love and sympathy.

Obituaries (March 19)

Betsey Hunt

Northern Christian Advocate, October 25, 1848

Betsey Hunt, relict of Wm. L. Hunt, died at Westmoreland, N.Y. [Oneida Co.] on the 3d inst., aged 71 years.  Mother Hunt experienced religion and united with the M.E. Church in Hillsdale, N.Y., nearly fifty years since, and continued a faithful and worthy member until the hour of her departure.  She removed into this town, thirty-four years since, when Methodism was in its infancy in this part of the world.  But in mother Hunt, the Church has always found a faithful and devoted friend.  She was emphatically a mother in Israel, never satisfied with only the form of religion, or a name in the Church, but she ever contended earnestly and successfully for its life and power, and for many years enjoyed the blessing of full salvation.  The cause of her Divine Master possessed no secondary place in her affections.  While she consecrated herself to God, she willingly yielded two of her sons to the work of the ministry.  Her faith was living and active, productive of good works.  Her home was always a home for the itinerant preacher; and many a toil-worn veteran of the cross will call to mind his cheerful welcome to her hospitable board.  Her departure was such as always follows  a life of obedience to God; it was not only peaceful but triumphant.  Neither age nor disease could fetter the spirit which was struggling for a larger sphere--for a fuller view of him whom she had so long and faithfully served.  She has left the church on earth, but she has joined the Church in heaven.  Her sun has set,

"As set the morning star

Which goes not down behind the darken'd west,

Nor hides peaceful amid the tempests f the sky,

But melts away into the light of heaven."

Isaac Foster

Hugh Cunningham

Chenango Union, May 29, 1890

Hugh Cunningham, aged about sixty-four, died suddenly at the home of Orville Sloat, near Delhi [Delaware Co., NY], May 13th.  An inquest was held, when the testimony brought out the fact that there is a secret society in Delhi of sixty or seventy members, called the "Royal Knobs," of which organization O.B. Sloat is chief officer, with the title of "Royal King."  There was an initiation the night before Cunningham's death, but the members refused to disclose the object of the society, it being a secret organization.  It was proved that five gallons of liquor were brought to the place Sunday, and that drinking had been indulged in by various parties until after the arrival of the deceased at that place on Tuesday, and that the liquor was free for all who came. The stomach and other receptacles of liquids, upon a post mortem examination, were found to be abnormally extended, probably causing death by paralysis of the heart.

Della (Johnson) Dunne

The Guilford News, January 28, 1931

The funeral of Mrs. Della Dunne, which was held from the Baptist church Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, was largely attended and there were many beautiful floral tributes.  Mrs. Dunne was born in Dinwiddle county, Virginia, 45 years ago, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Johnson.  When only 12 years old the family moved to New York.  Early in life she became the wife of David H. Dunne and most of her married life has bee spent in New Jersey and New York.  In April, 1925, Mr. Dunne bought the old Beverly place on the road between here [Guilford, Chenango Co., NY] and Sidney and with his family moved there from Paterson, N.J.  For the past three years Mrs. Dunne has been a patient in the tubercular hospital at Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] where she passed away Sunday morning, Jan. 11.  The officiating clergyman at the funeral was Rev. Mr. Pope of Norwich and he was assisted by Rev. Mr. Williams of Harpursville.  Burial in Greenlawn cemetery [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].  Besides her husband there remain to mourn her loss her father, William Johnson of New York city; one brother, John A. Johnson of Jamaica, L.I., and ten children.

Death Notices

Chenango Union, December 23, 1875

ROSS:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 21, 1875, Mr. Augustus Ross, aged 84 years.

PALMER:  In north Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 14, 1875, Dr. Chauncey Palmer, aged 57 years.

CURTISS:  In North Greece, Monroe Co., [NY], Dec. 17, 1875, Mr. Wm. H. Curtiss, aged 22, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

BELL:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 27, 1875, Mrs. Prylina Bell, aged 63 years.

DEXTER:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 7, 1875,  Mrs. Sally Dexter, widow of Sheldon Dexter, aged 73 years.

WILCOX:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 14, 1875, Mr. N. Ray Wilcox, aged 55 years.

Obituaries (March 18)

Hannah Hall Sperring

Northern Christian Advocate, October 19, 1853

Hannah Hall Sperring, daughter of George and Loueza Sperring, died of typhus fever, in Binghamton [Broome Co., NY] on the 12th of Sept., 1853, in the 20th year of her age.  Sister Sperring was converted to God in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], some time last winter, and united with the M.E. Church.  Her last illness of about three weeks continuance, was endured with Christian fortitude and resignation.  Though from the nature of her disease she was much of the time deprived of reason, in her lucid moments she seemed full of expectation of soon reaching a better world.  A little before her departure, having already stepped into the death stream, her reason seemed perfectly restored, and for a time, she conversed upon her future prospects, greatly to the comfort of surviving friends.  To a sister in the Church she said, "I am happy."  When unable to speak, being requested if happy, to press the hand of the sister, it was repeatedly done, with almost the strength of one in health.   E. Owen.

John Wilson

Northern Christian Advocate, October 19, 1853

John Wilson died in Sardinia, Erie Co., N.Y., August 19th, 1853, after a short illness in the 66th year of his age.  Father Wilson was born in the eastern part of this State.  He made a public profession of religion at the age of 25, and sustained the relation of class leader in the M.E. Church upwards of 20 yeas, in which capacity he closed his earthly pilgrimage, and obtained a transfer from the Church militant to the Church triumphant.  The religion of Christ which he had so long professed, was his support during his last illness.  His end was peace.  He was permitted to live to see most of his children converted to God and in fellowship with the M.E. Church. Both the parents and part of the family are now in heaven.  May God help the children who yet remain, so to run the Christian race, that they also may finally lay hold on eternal life.   Springville, Sept. 5th, 1853

Lyman N. Sackett

Northern Christian Advocate, October 19, 1853

Lyman N. Sackett died in Lisbon [St. Lawrence Co., NY], at his residence, August 6th, in the 52nd year of his age.  His disease was inflammation on the kidneys.  He was converted to God when about twenty-one, since which time he has been devoted to the service of God. As a Christian he was persevering, and ever inquiring, Lord what wilt thou have me to do.  His hand was ever open to sustain the temporal interests of the Church.  As a husband and father, he was kind and affectionate; as a leader, he was beloved, and in his last moments, while surrounded by Christians and unbelievers, he said to them, "this is the place to enjoy the benefit of religion".  He met death with composure, and passed quietly across Jordan to the land of rest.  May the blessing of God rest upon his surviving friends, that they may meet him in glory.  M.R. Pierce.  Lisbon, Oct. 1853

Hannah (Bent) Williams

Northern Christian Advocate, October 19, 1853

Mrs. Hannah Williams, wife of Jeremiah Williams, and daughter of Elijah and Susannah Bent, finished her sufferings of this life at her residence in the town of Shelby, Orleans Co., N.Y. on the 9th day of July, 1853, in the 39th year of her age.  She has left a husband and three children to mourn her loss.  The main cause of her suffering, a little over seven months, was the enlargement of the liver, which terminated in her death.  She sought the Lord at the age of fifteen or sixteen, after which she joined the M.E. Church, and remained a faithful member of the same until her death.  She made the Bible the book of her choice in her youthful days, which she took as a light to her pathway through life.  When she was told by her friends she was dying, she embraced her two youngest children in her arms, and gave them a parting kiss, with calm resignation, evidently trusting all in the hands of the Lord, that he would care for them, while she left them behind, and her spirit soon took its departure from the clay tenement, and no doubt has been carried by angels to the Paradise of God.  J. Williams,  Shelby, Oct. 9th, 1853