Obituaries (April 14)

William Peter Sprague

Norwich Sun, January 8, 1929

Friends of our esteemed townsman William P. Sprague will be sorry to learn that he is confined to his home west of this village with a broken hip, sustained on Friday of last week when he suffered two falls on the ice in the streets of Earlville, where he had gone to attend to business matters. After the first fall he managed to get up and get from near the Methodist church to the corner by the Cross meat market, where he again fell and was carried to the office of Dr. Stradling where an examination revealed an injury to his hip.  He was brought to his home by his grandson, Lytle Stowell where Dr. A.K. Benedict of Sherburne was called and found a dislocation and break at the hip. The joint was reset but the break was of such a nature as to make the use of a cast or splint impracticable and he was made as comfortable as possible with the use of packs.

Norwich Sun, February 18, 1929

This community was shocked on Sunday to learn of the sudden death of our respected townsman, William P. Sprague, at his home west of the village [Smyrna, Chenango Co., NY].  For several weeks he has been confined to his home, suffering with a fractured hip, from which he had been making a good recovery, and his sudden passing was a surprise and shock to his family and friends. Funeral services will be said on Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Baptist church in this village with interment in the Willcox cemetery [Smyrna, NY].  

Norwich Sun, February 22, 1929

In the Northup district of this town July 15, 1865, on the old homestead where no building now stands, the eleventh child of Peter and Electa Conkey Sprague, William Peter Sprague was born.  He died February 17, 1929.  He was the last one of the brothers and sisters to answer the final roll call and the first member to break his immediate family circle, being survived by his faithful life companion of forty-nine years and who was his tender nurse, thru much sickness, Mary Maria Ellsworth and three children born to them. Three grandchildren also survive.  He will be remembered by the few remaining members of his generation as a wrestler of fame and a man of unusual muscular strength.  In his younger days and by those and younger ones as an ardent lover of fun and frolic.  His schooling ended in the district of his birth, yet possessed of a high natural musical ability he was a singer somewhat out of the ordinary and a snare drummer of extraordinary dexterity as the remaining members of the Coye martial band, in whose ranks he leaves another gap, will testify.  In religion, although never a member of any church, he had settled the paramount question of life years ago. A faithful husband; solicitous for the welfare of his children, educationally, and otherwise; jovial, truthful and honest; accommodating and generous to a fault and ever militant against the bullying of the weaker by the stronger; William Sprague leaves a sensitive spot in the memory of friends and acquaintances whom he has left behind.

Beatrice Mae (Dennis) Onan

Norwich Sun, March 23, 1934

Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY]:  Beatrice Mae, wife of Ray M. Onan, passed away March 18, 1934 at her home in Smyrna at the age of 40 years, six months and 15 days. After a prayer at the house on Wednesday at one o'clock, services were conducted from the M.E. church in this village, Rev. Clayton W. Hoag, the pastor, officiating. The remains were placed in the vault on Sherburne West Hill to be laid at rest later in the Wilcox cemetery [Smyrna, NY].  Mrs. Onan was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Herbert D. Dennis and was born at Lowell, Michigan, on September 3, 1893.  On March 26, 1913, she became the wife of Ray E. Onan, also of Lowell and to this union were born three sons, Ronley, Jason, and Hugh.  In 1926, with the family, she came to New York state to reside and has since made her home here.  In 1927 she united with the Frist congregational church in Sherburne.  Mrs. Onan was a good wife, a loving mother and always cheerful throughout the past two years of patient waiting.  Her husband, the three sons, her parents, a sister, two brothers and a host of friends survive to morn her untimely passing.

Charles S. Billings

Norwich Sun, July 6, 1920

The funeral of Charles S. Billings who died at his home, 29 Guernsey street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Monday night at 6:30 o'clock, will be held from his late home Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock, the Rev. Wilson Treible officiating, and burial in the Willcox cemetery at Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY].  Mr. Billings had been a resident of Norwich for the past 11 years, and was well known and highly respected.  He had just passed his 75th birthday, having been born in Lebanon, June 4, 1845.  He was one of a family of eight children.  The deceased was a former resident of Smyrna, having lived in that place nearly all his life.  He was united in marriage with Miss Priscilla Willcox of Smyrna, 52 years ago last January. Besides the widow there survive three brothers, Delos of Earlville, Frank of Hamilton and Jay of Lebanon, also two sisters, Mrs. Mary Finch of North Norwich and Mrs. Julius Baker of Hamilton.

Priscilla Willcox Billings

Norwich Sun, January 20, 1926

Following a stroke of apoplexy suffered Monday morning, Mrs. Priscilla Willcox Billings, aged 75 years, died at her home, 29 Guernsey street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Wednesday morning.  Mrs. Billings was the widow of the late Charles S. Billings and for many years resided in Smyrna, where she was born Nov. 22, 1850. She was a daughter of Henry H . and Marrion L. Purdie Willcox.  Her father was of pioneer stock, and erected the first frame house built in Smyrna.  Her mother came from Norwich, England.  Both her parents were members of the Society of Friends.   The deceased was well known in Norwich for she had a wide acquaintance. She was of an especially cheerful disposition, hospitable and loyal to her friends. She attended the Methodist church. The nearest survivors are the following nephews and nieces:  Henry H. Willcox of Earlville, Dr. Hadwin P. Willcox of Central Square, Mrs. Harriet Willcox Briggs of Norwich, Mrs. Henry Kenyon of Smyrna and Mrs. Harvey R. Cook of North  Norwich. The funeral will be held from the late home at 1:30 Saturday afternoon.  Interment will be made in the Willcox cemetery, near Smyrna.

Samuel A. Billings

Chenango Telegraph, April 24, 1861

BILLINGS:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], April 17th, of typhoid fever, Samuel A. Billings, M.D., aged 23 years.  Dr. Billings graduated at the Eclectic Medical College of Cincinnati, Ohio, in May, 1857, with credit, attracting attention while there, as a student of more than ordinary ability.  He opened an office in this place soon after his return, and by his pleasing manners, close attention to business, and diligence in his studies, secured at once the confidence of those who sought his advice. Gentlemanly in his deportment, persevering in the profession of his choice, the future of his career certainly gave abundant promise of usefulness.  His early defiance upon public life, has been followed by an early, and greatly lamented death.  During his long and distressing illness, attendants, were put forth to save him, but death was inexorable.  His protracted sickness was improved in seeking acceptance with God, through Jesus Christ, a work which he most deeply deplored, having neglected until then. The most precious evidences of pardon and justification were enjoyed by him for a number of days before his death.  His end was peaceful "Come Lord Jesus, come quickly, and release me from all pain, Jesus is all, and in all," were the last words he uttered. At his request the services of his funeral were held in Smyrna, among the people with whom his childhood and youth were spent, and where his body now reposes, by the side of kindred dust. The deep sympathy manifested by the large audience which attended his funeral, bore testimony to the high esteem in which he was held by those who knew him best. Being a staff officer in the 41st regiment of N.Y. S. Militia, the company under Captain Tyrrell, kindly tendered their services, and he was buried with military honors. He leaves a heart stricken wife, to mourn his early death.

Obituaries (April 13)

Cora A. (Meade) Scott

Afton Enterprise, October 30, 1902

Mrs. Harry Scott of Woodland township died suddenly Sunday evening at half past six o'clock at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Washington Meade, in this city [Clark SD].  Mrs. Scott had suffered for about five years with consumption and last week was brought to Clark, but it was not thought at that time that her death would occur so soon, although there was little or no hope for her recovery. The funeral was held from the Methodist church Tuesday afternoon, Rev. M. Evans officiating, and the remains were laid to rest in Rosehill cemetery. Cora A. Meade-Scott was born at Afton, Chenango county, N.Y., April 18, 1863. She came to Clark in July, 1882, and was married to Mr. Scott in March, 1888.  Three children were born to them--Flora, Rosabell and Luella.  In 1887 Mrs. Scott joined the Methodist church and was a devoted and faithful wife and mother. The sorrowing husband and children together with her parents and sister have the deepest sympathy of all in their bereavement.  --Clark, SD.

Mary Hoag

Afton Enterprise, April 28, 1910

Miss Mary Hoag died at the home of her nephew, Henry G. Carr on Sunday morning at 10:30, aged 80 years.  She had not been well for several months and her death was not unexpected.  She was born in Laurens, Otsego Co. in 1830, and was one of our oldest inhabitants.  She resided for some years in Morris but has lived for about twenty years in this vicinity.  For 8-1/2 years she has made her home in this village [Afton, Chenango Co., NY].  Her eyesight became poor in her later years, but her other faculties were well preserved. She was a woman of excellent character.  Her brothers and sisters have all passed away and she was the only survivor of the family. The funeral services were held from her late home on Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock conducted by Rev. C.H. Colegrove. The remains were laid to rest in the East Side cemetery [Afton, NY].

Mary A. Peckham

The Rome Daily Sentinel, November 19, 1901

Mrs. Mary A. Peckham, a much esteemed resident of this community [Dix, Schuyler Co. NY], died Saturday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. S.M. H. Gould, aged 85 years.  Mrs. Peckham was the widow of the late Daniel Peckham and was a member of the Friends Church. For many years she was a preacher among them.  Her only child is the above named daughter with whom she lived.  Her funeral was held today from the Friends Church.

James Puride Knowles

The Phrenological Journal & Science of Health, vol 123-124, April 1910, pp 134/5

We regret to note that Mr. James Purdie Knowles, of Smyrna, N.Y. [Chenango Co.] has passed away, at the age of seventy-five.  He had subscribed for the Phrenological Journal for over fifty years.  Mr. Knowles was in New York in December last, and attended our monthly meeting;  he made a few remarks, and advocated the work of the Scientific Christian Association which was outlined at the meeting.  He did much good work where he lived, and was constantly making other people happy.  He recently helped a neighbor to rebuild his house because labor was hard to obtain.  While yet in his teens Mr. Knowles was attacked by a nervous trouble, and in search for help his attention was called to the Health Reform Movement and he carefully read the works of the best writers on the subject, and upon Phrenology and Mental Science.  He became a vegetarian in 1884, as well as prohibitionist, and used his influence at home and abroad on all reform subjects.  Educated as a Friend, he believed in the guidance of the Holy Spirit in all things.

Frank B. Knowles

Chenango Union, April 16, 1885

One of Smyrna's most promising young men died last Saturday, at Kingston, Pa., where he was attending the Wyoming Seminary.  Frank B. Knowles was born in the town of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], twenty-one years ago last October.  He received a district school education, and afterwards attended the Union School at Sherburne, where he took high rank in his studies.  A little over a year ago he took a short course at a Phrenological school in New York, and commenced lecturing at various places in Chenango county upon that subject. About this time a series of revival meetings were in progress at Smyrna, in which he took a deep interest.  Although a member of the M.E. Church for some years, it was at these meetings that his soul was so deeply stirred that he resolved to enter the ministry.  Early in the spring on 1884 he was licensed to preach. During the summer he supplied various pulpits throughout the county in the temporary absence of the pastors.  In August he entered the conference Seminary of his church, at Kingston, where he pursued studies preparatory to entering Drew Theological Seminary.  While at the Seminary he occasionally supplied pulpits of various churches, with satisfaction and was often in demand to supply such places.  He made rapid progress in his studies, and won the hearty approbation of his teachers.  A few weeks ago he came home to spend his spring vacation, apparently healthy, and in the best of spirits.  It was our good fortune to meet our old schoolmate of former day, and to hear of his progress and of his plans for the future, plans destined never to be fulfilled.  He returned to his school and commenced the work of the spring term, but was soon stricken with typhoid pneumonia.  His illness was only of a few days, and on Saturday morning last he died.  Kind friends ministered unto him, the best of medical aid was procured, but of no avail. When the telegram was received announcing his death a deep gloom fell upon the community which knew him from boyhood.  His funeral was held from the M.E. Church, Smyrna, Monday afternoon, Rev. L.B. Weeks officiating.  Many friends were present from adjoining towns, to pay their last respects to him whom they had learned to love.  Clear in conception, concise and fearless in argument, he was a speaker that had but few equals among the young men.  Never possessing what might be termed oratorical gifts, he had a style so forcible and clear that he always won a reputation.  It took a good man to refute his arguments.  His life was an exemplary one, marked by all the traits of a Christian character, conscientiousness, perhaps being the most prominent.   W.S.L.

Robert Hoxie Knowles

Norwich Sun, June 21, 1927

Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY]:  Robert Hoxie Knowles, a native and for many years a resident of this town, passed away at his home in Earlville [Madison Co., NY] on Monday, June 20, aged 81 years.  Mr. Knowles was one of four children of the late Hoxie and Polly Kenyon Knowles, and was born on the Knowles homestead just north of this village, the farm now owned by William G. Clark, on September 21, 1845, and for many years that was his home.  For some years he was successfully engaged in the creamery business at Windsor, Conn., and for a time he was in Kansas City, mo. where he was engaged in the railroad business.  Some 25 years ago he returned to his birthplace and successfully carried on his farm for about ten years, when he sold it to its present owner, moving to this village.  Later he purchased a home in the village of Earlville, where he had since made his home.  Since May 5, 1872, he had been a member of the Congregational church at this place and took an active and earnest part in all branches of the work, holding important offices much of the time.  A man of genial ways, always dependable for good and careful judgment, he was a counsellor and friend to many who will mourn his passing.  He was twice married, his first wife being Miss Eliza Burlingham and his second Miss Hattie Kenyon, both of whom, with an infant son, preceded him to that better land.  Although surrounded and looked after in his declining days by many friends, he is survived by no near relatives excepting cousins or more distant relatives, among whom are J.M. Wilcox of this place, Mrs. G. B. Towner of Norwich, B.E. Willcox of Earlville and Mrs. Alice Anderson of Fenton, Mich.  Funeral services will be held from his late home in Earlville on Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, the Rev. C.V. Slocum, his former pastor, officiating, and interment will be made in the family plot in the Willcox cemetery [Smyrna, NY]

Marriages (April 12)

Marriage Notices

Chenango American, Greene, NY, November 29, 1855

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 18th inst., by Laman Ingersoll Esq., Mr. Lewis McComber to Miss Polly Hall, both of Oxford.

In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th, by the same, Mr. Lucius Hall to Miss Laura Burlisson, both of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

At Whitney's Point [Broome Co., NY], Nov. 19th, by Rev. William Gates, Mr. Theodore S. Winton of Waukesha, Wis., to Miss Emily A. Tilson, of Triangle [Broome Co., NY].

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 6, 1855

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 28th ult., by Rev. Wm. Bixby, Mr. Cortland Carruth of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Valera M. Wells, of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY].

In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th ult. by Elder Woodmancy, Mr. Benjamin Franklin, to Miss Sarah A. Avery, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult., by Rev. F.H. Hill, Mr. Leonard Tuthill, to Miss Mary Bartlett, all of the above place.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 15, 1855

In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY]on the 3d inst., at the house of Mr. Joel Beebe, by Rev. R.O. Beebe, Mr. Adam E. Stanley of Winchendon, mass., to Miss Ellen Beebe, of the former place.

In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on the 19th ult., by Rev. Wm. M. DeLong, Mr. Lyman Buck of South Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Sarah Ann Crane, of Sidney, Delaware Co.

In Pittsfield, Otsego Co., on the 2d inst., by Rev. C. Starr, Mr. Justus Woodard, of Columbus [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Clarissa Persons, of the former place.

In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th ult., by W.H. Brownell, Esq., Mr. Frederick J. Church, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Eliza Crandall of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 20, 1855

At New Ohio [Broome Co., NY] on the 9th inst., by H.L. Miller, Esq., Mr. Jonathan Statts, of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY] to Miss Roena Scouten, of the former place.

In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., by Rev. S.U. Ferguson, Mr. Thomas Swan to Miss Martha C. Harris, all of the above place.

In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., by Rev. O. Ketchum, Mr. Daniel M. Rathbone, to Miss Mary L. Scott, both of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

 

Obituaries (April 10)

Sally Ann (Beecher) Flint

Northern Christian Advocate, Auburn, NY, April 3, 1850

Mrs. Sally Ann Flint, daughter of Hon. S. and Sally Beecher, deceased, and wife of the Rev. C.N. Flint, died March 2, at her residence in Lenox, Madison Co., N.Y., aged 43 years and 10 days.  Sister Flint was distinguished by her mildness of manners, and the prudence of her deportment, warm in her attachment to the service of the Church, at whose altar she had bowed for near thirty years, and firm in her belief of the truths there preached. She was always remarkable for the gentleness of her treatment to all around her, and for the care she exercised never to injure the feelings, or question the motives of those who differed from her.  She died as the righteous die, in peace, hope and triumph. when the last hour had fled, and the last moment came, the angels appeared, and her enfranchised spirit fled to its native abode.   J.P. Newman,  March 31, 1850

A Dark Crime - Murder on the Highway

Robert A. Peaslee shot and Instantly killed by Samuel P. Hill

Sidney Record, September 16, 1886

On Friday morning of the 10th instant, this village [Sidney, Delaware Co., NY] was the scene of a cold blooded and apparently deliberate murder.  Samuel P. Hill, a farmer, who resides in the town of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], shot and almost instantly killed Robert A. Peaslee, a fireman on Nos. 1 and 2, O.&W. road, who lives in Middletown, N.Y. [Orange Co.]. Both parties have numerous relatives residing in Sidney, and are very well known in the vicinage.  The news of the terrible deed spread with lightning rapidity and threw this community into a state of unparalleled excitement.  In a short time the entire population had heard of the tragedy and everyone was on the alert for the particulars.

Samuel P. Hill is a man of middle age, and owns a farm on the road between this village and Bainbridge, nearly two miles West of Sidney.  He is a man of short stature, ruddy complexion and wears spectacles.  He has lived on his farm many years and he is very well known about here.

Robert A. Peaslee, Hill's victim, was a young man about 31 years of age, in full flush of health and strength.  He had a well knit frame and was powerfully built.  He was a sober, hardworking young man, and with his frank, open ways readily made friends.  His popularity among his fellow railroad employees is unquestioned, and when they learned of his tragic death curses loud and deep were heaped upon the head of his slayer.

The place where the murder was committed is located about five rods from the Ontario & Western crossing, on the road from this village to Bainbridge, and between the residences of Azor and Albert Smith.  Hill was driving from his farm to Sidney and had just crossed the railroad track and was driving past Azor Smith's when Robert Peaslee got in his wagon.  He staid there only a few seconds and was next seen to fall out of the seat on the ground.  Arthur W. Hill, son of Samuel P. Hill, caught him and help [him] to stand up. Arthur asked him if he was hurt.  Peaslee replied, "I am shot through the lungs." Those were the last words of the unfortunate man.  Blood poured from his mouth and nostrils in torrents and he expired almost immediately.

Samuel P. Hill drove on to the village and stopping at the office of Justice Pierce, he surrendered himself saying: "I've shot Bob Peaslee and wish to give myself up."  Mr. Pierce immediately sent for Sheriff Smith who, after carefully searching Hill, made  him his prisoner. Coroner Bundy, of Deposit, was telephoned for and arrived here at 3 o'clock in the afternoon.  Dist. Attorney Samuel Fancher was also present.

The causes which led to this crime were undoubtedly the outcroppings of family broils, the exact nature of which it is very difficult to establish.  Samuel P. Hill's son, Arthur, married Robert Peaslee's sister, and as between Sam Hill and the Peaslees a feud appears to have always existed dating from that marriage, which he did not approve.  From some cause or other the quarrel between Sam Hill and his son's family broke out a few days ago with unusual violence, and the residence of the latter on Clinton St., was the scene of a most scandalous affair, in which it is alleged that words and epithets of the vilest character was used by S.P. Hill.

Peaslee leaves a wife, daughter of James Kinch, and a three year old child.  His wife had been spending a few days with her relatives here and left for Eaton last Thursday evening.  A telegram was dispatched to her and she returned to Sidney on no. 2, Friday noon.  Her husband was insured in the Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen in the sum of $1,500, and $2,000 in the Equitable of Binghamton.

The following jury was summoned:  S. Thornton, T.G. Smith, H.W. Clark, Wm. Wanzer, Ira E. Sherman, Richard Smith, Delos Fosbury, O.F. Harper, A.V. Strait and Arthur Bird. They immediately proceed to view the body and returned to Hodgin's Hall to hear the testimony.

When the shroud was removed, Robert's fine, muscular body could not have escaped the attention of the jurors.  It seemed very sad to see a man of such fine physique so suddenly cut off in the very flower of his manhood.  A black spot on his right breast revealed his death wound. The bullet penetrated through the right breast and evidently passed through the left lung into the region of the heart, lodging right of spine. Death must have been instantaneous. After leaving the Kinch residence the jury and the officers proceeded to Hodgin's Hall to hear the testimony.

_______________________________________________________

The Sidney Murder

The following additional circumstances connected with the murder of Peesley [sic] by Hill are furnished by Sidney correspondents:

Hill, who lives about two miles below this village [Sidney, NY] on the river road to the town of Bainbridge, was coming to the village with some vegetables which he was going to sell when he met his son, Arthur Hill, near the railroad crossing.  While talking with him, a train was coming from Norwich.  Peesley jumped off from the train and approached Hill and his son.  A few words passed between Hill and Peesley when the latter jumped into the wagon. A scuffle ensued and soon the report of a revolver was heard.  Peesley was seen to jump out of the wagon, walk back a few steps, when Arthur P. Hill took hold of Peesley and laid him down.  Peesley died in a few minutes. The bullet struck him in the right breast going toward the heart.

After the shooting Hill drove immediately to the office of William H. Pierce, Justice of the Peace, and said to him:  "I have shot a man and I want to give myself up."  The justice asked Hill whom he had shot.  Hill replied Robert Peesley, and related the facts as follows:

"I was coming to town to deliver some potatoes and sweet corn which I had sold.  When near the crossing my son stopped me and we were talking when this train came along.  Peesley jumped off from the train and coming up to my wagon asked me if I had said certain things about his mother.  I replied I did.  Peesley then said, 'I will take it out of your hide if I have to take your hearts blood to do it' and he jumped in my wagon and taking me by the throat pushed my head backward.  I thought he was going to choke me to death and getting my revolver, pulled it out and shot him.  I could not tell Peesley to let go because he had his hands around my neck and was choking me so that I could not speak. What I did, I did in self defense.  I am very sorry it had to happen."

Justice Pierce called Deputy Sheriff Leroy Smith and put Hill in his charge. Peesley was a fireman on the Ontario & Western railroad, and had lived here [Sidney, NY] until quite recently.  He moved to Middletown a short time ago.  He was married, and had one child.  His wife was daughter of James Rinch [sic], of this place. Arthur P. Hill, the son of the homicide, married Eva Peesley, a sister of Robert, the man who was shot.

A telegram was sent to Samuel Fancher, the district attorney, who replied that he would come on the first train. Coroner Bundy, of Deposit was also telephoned to and authorized the justice to impanel a jury.

The railroad men are greatly excited and talk of lynching Hill is freely expressed. An inquest is being held at Hodgein's hall.

The Middletown Argus has the following in its Saturday issue:  "A coroner's inquest on the body of Robert Peesley was held Friday afternoon.  Hill was placed on the stand, and claimed that he shot Peesley in self defense, stating that the latter attacked him, but as the affair was witnessed by several persons who saw no attempt made by Peesley upon the person or life of Hill, and as he had no pistol upon his person, this statement is not believed.  Even Hill's own son testified that his father and Peesley met and both appeared friendly, and his father asked Mr. Peesley if he was going up town and invited him to ride, and that Peesley had no sooner settled himself in his seat than his father pulled out the pistol and without the slightest provocation, shot him twice. The young man regretted the necessity of testifying against his father, but remarked that the crime committed by him was uncalled for and inexcusable, and therefore he told the story of the crime as it occurred.

"There was no family quarrel as we were informed Friday, but it is said that Hill has always disliked Peesley and all his family since one of his son's married Peesley's sister.  But this, of course, was no excuse for the crime, and Hill will doubtless suffer the penalty unless he finds a lawyer who can prove him to be insane, which some of the more charitably disposed people of Sidney believe him to be."

Obituaries (April 9)

Jerusha Briggs

Northern Christian Advocate, April 3, 1850

Jerusha Briggs departed this life with cheering prospects of a blissful immortality, Feb. 27, 1850, aged 78 years.  She was the last but one of those who joined the first class in this place, at the time of its organization in 1791. She had consequently been a member of this church for the extended period of 56 years.  Through the infirmities of age, she had been, for some time, deprived of the public means of grace, but at her dwelling she was always found confiding implicitly in the merits of the Savior, and waiting his call to retire from the scene of conflict, and possess her eternal reward. She lived and died in the affections of the Church and confidence of the community.   H.F. Row, Sanquoit [Oneida Co., NY], March 25, 1850

Giles Crittenden

Northern Christian Advocate, April 3, 1850

Giles Crittenden, died in Cincinnatus [Cortland Co., NY], January 13, aged 20 years.  During the few last days of his life, God by the grace of Christ, enabled him to do a great work.  His attention was first directed to a clear and reliable evidence in himself, that his peace was made with God, and that he had a house, a home in heaven, where he was going, to dwell forever with the Lord. This obtained, his next effort was for the conversion of those of his friends who had no hope in Christ. We have the assurance that those labors were not in vain, inasmuch as his affectionate and amiable young widow, a brother and others, for whom he labored, have since given good evidence that they have passed from death unto life.  J. Soule   Cincinnatus, March 20, 1850

John Latham

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 20, 1855

Death of John Latham:  We are pained to announce the decease of this estimable citizen, at his residence in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on Thursday evening last.  His death was not wholly unexpected, as he had been in very feeble health for a year or two past; but notwithstanding, the news fell upon our citizens, as such events always do, however protracted, with painful surprise.  Mr. Latham has borne a prominent part in the history of this County.  He removed from Guilford to this town on his election to the County Clerkship, in 1842, where he has since resided.  His loss is universally regretted by the community in which he lived, who knew him to be an honest man, a good citizen, and a faithful and a sincere Christian.   Chenango Union.

Death Notices

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 15, 1855

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst., Richard [Gaylord], son of John and Ana Gaylord, aged 1 year 5 months and 13 days.

In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on [Nov. 21] Mrs. Mary (Wilcox) Lewis, relict of the late Mr. Clark Lewis, deceased, aged 70 years.

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., of Inflammation of the lungs, Amos J. [Ketchum], son of Isaac Ketchum, aged 27 years.

Bainbridge Republican, January 20, 1872

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 11, Mr. Asa Barnes, aged 62 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 4, Jesse [Marquis], youngest son of James B. and Delia A. Marquis, aged 11 months.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 3d, Frank T. Wilder, aged 2 years.

Bainbridge Republican, January 27, 1872

On Tuesday evening, the 23d inst., at his home in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Mr. David Johnston, aged 59 years, 7 months and 3 days.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 13, Caleb Hoyt, aged 85 years.

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st inst., infant son of John Rhodes, aged 2 months.

At Rondout, NY [Ulster Co.] on the 22d inst, Benjamin Gilbert, father of D.A. Gilbert, of Bainbridge, aged 73 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 20th inst., William J. [Brocket], only son ofj Frederick Brocket, aged 13.

Harpursville [Broome Co., NY]:  While mentioning the deaths I should have noted that of the wife of H.A. Olendorf.  Her disease was dropsy of the heart.  She was the daughter of the late Hon. Grover Buell, of Windsor.

Lester Chase, 1815-1903

Lester Chase

1815-1903

Chenango American, Greene, NY, February 12, 1903

Lester Chase, Esq., for more than a half century, a leading citizen of this town and a lawyer widely and favorably known in this and surrounding counties, died at his home in this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], February 4, 1903, aged 87 years.  He had been in failing health for the last six months, and at the last, death came suddenly, though not unexpected.  His funeral was attended Saturday afternoon.  A large number of our townspeople attended to show their regard and respect.  Rev. Henry E. Hubbard officiated.  Chas. and Eugene Clinton, Esqs. and M.F. Porter, Esq., of Greene, and Hon. C.W. Brown, Hon. S.S. Stafford and H.S. Stratton, Esq., of Oxford, all members of the Chenango County bar, acted as pall bearers.  Interment followed in Sylvan law cemetery [Greene, NY].  He was a communicant of Zion Episcopal Church.

Lester Chase was born at Triangle, Broome county, May 2, 1815.  He was the son of Reuben and Laura Waterman Chase.  His grandfather, Josiah Chase, was a native of Bristol, Massachusetts, but after his marriage settled in Worcester, Otsego county.  Both his father and grandfather were farmers and were solid, substantial and influential citizens in their respective communities.

Like the majority of the successful men of his generation, Lester Chase, after acquiring the first rudiments of an education, became a school teacher and taught district school and boarded around.  He thus gained an experience worth more than book knowledge in after life and obtained means for a course of higher education, which he pursued at Oxford Academy, then the most famous educational institution west of the Hudson.  Upon the completion of his school days, he went to Greene and entered upon the study of law in the office of Robert O. Reynolds, who ranked high as a brilliant lawyer and polished and forcible advocate and, who a few years after Mr. Chase entered his office, was appointed District Attorney.  It is worthy of note, in these days of continuous change, that the law office of  Mr. Reynolds stood upon the same ground in the village of Greene as the office owned and occupied by Mr. Chase for many years and now owned and occupied as a law office by his son, L. Elwyn Chase, Esq.  He also studied with Hon. Robert Monell, a distinguished lawyer of Greene, who successively was to be Member of Assembly, District Attorney, Congressman and justice of the Supreme Court.  In 1840, after a thorough apprenticeship, he was admitted to practice at Albany and a month later admitted in chancery at New York city. He chose Greene for his home, and hung out his shingle, and continued in active practice there for forty-five years.  In 1878, he took his son, L. Elwyn Chase, into partnership, which was continued till Jan. 1, 1885.  Since that time the son has practiced alone, but by his father's request and desire, has conducted the business under the firm name, L & L E. Chase, the father having a pride in his chosen profession and a prejudice against being called retired.

Mr. Chase was well fitted by nature to be a lawyer.  He had a natural and superior legal mind, which he aided and cultivated by extensive reading, hard study and close thinking.  He was a man of remarkable energy, could express himself with great clearness, and was indefatigable in the prosecution of any matter he undertook.  In argument he was logical, forcible and convincing.  Of irreproachable private character, honest and open in his business methods; he quickly won the confidence of the public and gathered about him a large clientage, which he never disappointed, and retained through his long and honorable legal career.

He was twice married.  On March 30, 1842, he was united to Mary A. Ringer, daughter to John Ringer, of Geneva.  Of this union there was born one daughter, Catherine W., who is now the wife of John C. Reynolds, and resides at Stevens Point, Wisconsin. After the death of his first wife, he was remarried to Catherine E. [Hollenbeck], daughter of David Hollenbeck, of Greene, on Dec. 26, 1848.  There was born to them one son, L. Elwyn Chase, Esq., who with his mother, survive.

Lester Chase was a lawyer of the old regime.  He entered upon the study and practice of his profession when the old traditions were yet strong and believed in.  A legal career then stood for a long life of study and of earnest and careful thinking. The legal profession was then a real profession.  To be a true lawyer and achieve an enviable success in the calling meant for a man to "live like a hermit and work like a slave;" but once admitted to the select circle, it classed him among the cultivated and influential men of his community. He had for his contemporaries and met in forensic contest such men as Balcom, Mygatt and Rexford of the earlier generation, and Glover, the Prindles, Stanton, Newton, Bundy and Merritt of the later generation.  He survived them all, and lived to see his life span a period in our history, which has seen the professional lawyer lost in the business man.  Chase, Rexford, Mygatt, Monell and their earlier and later contemporaries were engaged in "the practice of the law;" today their successors are simply "in the law business."  But he never laid aside the polished manners, the urbane courtesy and the self respecting dignity that distinguished the lawyer among her fellow citizens in the days of his youth.  He was true to his ideal to the last.  His fame as a lawyer will soon pass away, for the fame of a lawyer is evanescent.  It needs must be so, for he ranks with evanescent material.  He makes "the supreme effort of his life" in the trial of a cause today; tomorrow that cause is of no utility or present interest to the community at large.  His effort sinks into forgetfulness with the occasion that brought it forth.  Nevertheless the lawyer knows, when the shadows of life grow long, that if he has been true to the traditions of his profession, he has served his day and generation to better purpose than he could have done in any other path of life.

Lester Chase leaves to his family the precious legacy of a devoted husband and loving and indulgent father.  There was always between him and his only son, who was also his law partner, a strong bond of attachment.  During their intimate relations of over a quarter of a century, nothing ever interrupted their continuous confidence, sympathy and mutual affection.  He leaves to his village and fellow townsmen the memory of a true, honorable and patriotic citizen; and to his legal brethren the example of an honest, painstaking and reliable lawyer.  It is such men as Lester Chase that preserves the unity of our great nation and presages hope for its future.

Remembrance

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 30, 1903

For many years my ever beloved and venerated parents were near neighbors of the late Lester Chase, Esq., and when a boy I was intimate with him, for he made much of his neighbor's children.  When he passed away a few weeks ago, an obituary appeared in these columns, which treated more especially on his triumphs as a lawyer, and as a man of high honor among his constituency, but not fully covering his social, neighborly qualities.  Lester Chase was one of the most genial, polished and kindly hearted neighbors I ever know.  He always had a kindly, pleasant greeting for the children in his neighborhood, and it was always a great pleasure to receive his attentions.  When I was a lad he never passed me without a cordial salute, and often he would stop and inquire about my people, and perhaps relate some pleasing story, or anecdote, that impressed my youthful mind, and encouraged me to look upon the sunny side of life.  The sweet impressions he made upon my mind linger there after all those years, and the encouragements and advice he gave were beneficial in after life.  Mr. Chase was always solicitous for his neighbors' welfare, and any assistance they desired, if within his power, was always freely granted.  His kindly greetings and genteel presence were ever apparent throughout his long and honorable life.  But a few weeks before his death, I met him on Genesee street, and although enfeebled by the weight of years, the same bright spirit and cordial hand shake were extended me as in the days of youth.  It has been correctly remarked that Lester Chase was an old time, polished gentleman. Greene boasted of quite a number of citizens of this class during those years, but none more so than the old friend of whom I write.  Peace to his ashes, and an immortal crown, is the wish of---The Man About Town.