Obituaries (August 25)

John Bliss Willoughby

October 21, 1821 - November 8, 1908

John Bliss Willoughby, son of David P. and Charlotte McNeil Willoughby, was born on the McNeil farm Oct. 21, 1821.  On Oct. 15, 1840, he married Mary Ann [Race], daughter of  Nicholas and Annie Davis Race of Greene.  They passed their sixty-eighth wedding anniversary Oct. 15, 1908.  He had spent his life in this town, as a farmer, and was a familiar figure on our streets.  Mr. Willoughby is survived by his wife, a daughter, Mrs. David W. Bartle of Buffalo; two sons, Rector W. Willoughby of Howard, Col., and Chester B. Willoughby of Hartford, Me.; two grandsons and one great-grandson.  Mr. Willoughby had been growing feeble for the last few years, and as a result of a shock in August he was taken to the State Hospital in Binghamton, where he died Nov. 8, of acute erysipelas, aged 87 years.  His daughter was with him a few days and brought the remains to Oxford, where the funeral was held at the residence of Romaine Jackson and burial was made in TenBroeck cemetery at South Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Hamilton Yeager

ca 1833 - May 3, 1908

Hamilton Yeager, the aged victim of the Quinnieville outrage of two years ago, died at his home Sunday morning at 11 o'clock.  Death was indirectly due to the brutal treatment the old man received at the hands of the four ruffians who broke into his home and robbed it.  In spite of his age the old man put up a stiff fight with the robbers and it is said would have come off victorious but for his wife, who begged him to give up, fearing the robbers would murder him.  However, since that time the old gentleman's physical condition has been failing.  "Quinnieville" is a little hamlet in the town of Greene [Chenango Co., NY] near the Broome county line.  Details of the crime are familiar to readers of the Times as is the conviction of the robbers, three of whom are in prison and the fourth, a youth, is out on bail, he having confessed and implicated the older members of the gang.  Mr. Yeager was 75 years of age. The funeral will be held tomorrow, burial in Sylvan Lawn cemetery at Greene.

Chenango Telegraph, May 5, 1908

Greene:  Hamilton Yeager died Sunday morning at 11 o'clock.  Dr. W.S. Overton of Binghamton, the attending physician, gave the cause of death as due to the pounding he received in the famous brutal Yeager robbery about two years ago.  Mr. Yeager was 75 years of age.  He is survived by his wife. He had been in failing health since the robbery and had been irrational for the past three weeks. The funeral will be held on Thursday at 11 o'clock from the home in the town of Greene, near Fenton. Rev. C. R. Hickok of New Berlin will officiate.  Interment will be in Sylvan Lawn Cemetery.

Mariette Moon Pearsall

1844 - 1908

The passing away of Mariette Moon, wife of Hon. Edgar A. Pearsall, occurred Monday evening at 6:30 o'clock. Death was caused by an acute attack of paralysis agitans, which had been severe since February 9.  Mrs. Pearsall had been afflicted with the disease for about ten years.  When the first symptoms were obvious, she consulted a noted New York specialist, who held out no hope. Since that time the disease gradually grew worse until culminating in her death.  Mrs. Pearsall was born in Coventry January 31, 1844, and was the daughter of Fletcher and Polly (Dole) Moon.  She was married to Mr. Pearsall October 11, 1865, and they continued to live in Coventry until 1894, when the family moved to this village, where they have since made their residence.  Mrs. Pearsall was of a retiring disposition and her home was her kingdom.  However, while slow to make friendships, they were usually life friends.  As a neighbor she was highly esteemed, and her devotion to her family knew no bounds.  Besides her husband she is survived by two sons, Ernest Pearsall of Port Jervis and Harry E. Pearsall of this village and one daughter, Miss May Pearsall of this village. She is also survived by one brother, James moon of Coventry. The funeral will be held Thursday morning at 11 o'clock at the family residence on Clinton street, and will be in charge of Rev. R.A. Gates of the Baptist church, assisted by Rev. T.W. Harris of the Congregational church.  Interment will be made in Coventry cemetery.

Obituaries (August 24)

Dr. Louis P. Blair

July 8, 1853 - January 1908

Advices were received here Monday announcing the death of Dr. Louis P. Blair of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], at the General Hospital in Buffalo Sunday, from Bright's disease. Dr. Blair had been ill about a year, although he had been more or less a sufferer from diabetes for several ears. The best medical skill was secured, but was only successful in prolonging his life a few months, as it seemed certain that he could not get well from the beginning.  Dr. Louis P. Blair was born July 8, 1853 on his father's farm in the town of Chenango, Broome county, and was the son of A. Edson and Caroline Blair.  In early life he worked on the farm, and after he completed his common school education he taught school for a few years.  he began the study of medicine with Dr. J.A. Pettit of Buffalo, and followed with a course at the Buffalo Medical College, and later at the Kentucky School of Medicine at Louisville, from which he graduated in 1877.  Dr. Blair came to McDonough in 1878 or 1879 from Castle Creek, N.Y.  He was 55 years of age.  As a physician he built up an extensive practice and was known throughout the county.  He leaves a large estate, including several good farms.  In politics he was a Republican, holding the leadership of his town many years.  He has served as postmaster and represented his town on the Board of Supervisors.  He had many strong friendships, and because of an arbitrary ad intolerant temperament, occurred some enmity.  In the practice of medicine he showed a great capacity for sympathy and kindness, but always exacted the utmost loyalty from his friends.  Dr. Blair was married twice, his first wife being Mary Slater of Triangle, NY., who died in 1902.  He was again married August 2, 1907 to Miss Mary Bliven of McDonough.  He is survived by his wife, four sisters, Mrs. Moody of New Haven, Conn., Mrs. W.H. Bristol, Mrs. Stevens and Mrs. H.B. Johnson, and  a nephew, Morris T. Blair of Binghamton.  The funeral service was held yesterday in Buffalo, and was in charge of Rev. W.W. Watrous of McDonough.  The remains were cremated and it is probable that the ashes will be taken to Binghamton, where his wife is buried in Spring Forest cemetery.

Luther Clayton Wakeman

May 1908

On Saturday afternoon Mrs. Watrous and grandchildren while in a piece of woods about a mile from Bainbridge village [Chenango Co., NY] in search of wild flowers, discovered the body of a man.  The lady immediately went to the nearest house and notified the occupant, Mr. Deforest, who is turn notified the undertaker.  Coroner Johnson of this village was summoned by telephone and after giving directions for the removal of the body to the undertaker's rooms, went to Bainbridge to determine the cause of the man's death.  The body was badly decomposed, having evidently lain where found several days. The body was identified as that of Luther Clayton Wakeman, and more fully so by Mrs. Hutchinson, a sister, who had been summoned from Afton. Wakeman was a single man, 30 years of age and of intemperate habits.  He was a man of all work about farms and in the village and was in the habit of taking a by--path through the woods where his body was found in going to places where he worked.  He was last seen alive on Monday, the 11th inst., which is supposed to have been the day of his death.  The body was on the knees beside a tree with the heard partly under, and there was every evidence that Wakeman had stumbled and fallen, striking his head against the tree. The blow broke his neck and death occurred instantly. There were no indications of foul play, and the coroner decided that death was due to an accidental cause.  Besides the sister above mentioned, deceased is survived by his mother who resides in Oneonta and two brothers who reside in Lestershire.

Middletown Daily Argus, May 25, 1908

Luther Wakeman disappeared form his home at Bainbridge on Tuesday and his whereabouts were not discovered until Friday, when his body was found on Pruyn Hill near the cemetery.  The Coroner was called and after examining the body found the neck was broken. The Coroner attributed the death to an accidental fall. Wakeman was about 30 years of age and was not married.  He had worked at various occupations about Bainbridge and was well known. The inhabitants consider his death a mystery and not everybody believes that it was possible for him to have broken his neck by falling.

Philo S. Mead

February 1908

A McPherson, Kansas paper in mentioning the death of Philo S. Mead, which occurred in that city February 10th, of inflammation of the bowels of which malady he had suffered several previous attacks, says:  "Mr Mead's death marks the end of a life that has been interwoven with the history of McPherson almost from its beginning.  He came here over thirty years ago, and in modest quarters, engaged in the loan business which he continued until the time of his death.  He was modest in his habits, almost to the point of eccentricity and although he owned a great deal of property in McPherson county and was rated as one of the wealthiest men in the country, his life was very common.  Although he at no time permitted the facts of his charitable works to be made public, it was known that he contributed large sums of money to philanthropic work.  He was  a faithful member of the Presbyterian church and took an active interest in religious and especially in missionary work.  Philo S. Mead was about sixty-five years old.  He is survived by his wife and only daughter, Miss Grace Mead, who is attending college at Colorado Springs.  Mr. Mead had several cousins in the east but no closer relatives.  Mrs. Ward Kinney of this city is a sister of Mrs. Mead."

William Allen

July 21, 1908

William Allen was found dead in his home in Bainbridge village [Chenango Co., NY] Tuesday afternoon, July 21.  Mr. Allen had been ill with Bright's disease since last December.  Mrs. Allen is employed at the Park hotel, going to her work in the morning and returning at night. The dwelling in which they lived is a double house, a Mrs. Neff and her son occupying the other part.  Mrs. Neff not seeing Mr. Allen about the house as usual sent word to Mrs. Allen who, thinking that something serious had happened, had Mr.  Hall, her employer, accompany her home. They found Mr. Allen on the floor dead. Dr. Evans, Allen's physician pronounced death due to Bright's disease.  Mr. Allen was 38 years old and his sole surviving relative [is his wife].

Bainbridge Republican & Express

July 23, 1908

Will Allen, a young man about 30, residing on the upper end of Bixby street, was found lying dead on the floor of his room Tuesday afternoon.  His wife is engaged as a domestic at the Park hotel in this village.  Monday night she was not at home and Tuesday when Mr. Allen did not appear about the house as usual the neighbors notified Mrs. Allen who came to the house and made the discovery.  A physician was summoned and the cause of death was pronounced to be due to acute Bright's disease.  Mr. Allen had been a suffered from kidney malady and was in very poor health.

Nellie Williams

March 13, 1908

Nellie Williams, 25 years old, employed as maid in the family of Samuel A. Marshall in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] disappeared from his home Friday night and is thought to have taken her own life. Tracks were found leading from beneath a window at the Marshall home, across the fields to the banks of the Chenango river, swollen with the spring floods. There were no return tracks.  Friday night, instead of going to her room upstairs, Miss Williams told Mrs. Marshall that she thought that she would sleep on the lounge downstairs.  Going to her room she got a pair of work shoes and placed them at the head of the lounge.  Saturday morning the family found no breakfast awaiting them.  Miss Williams had mentioned going to visit her relatives in Madison county and it was first thought that she might have left early in the morning to go there. After dinner, however, Mrs. Marshall became thoroughly alarmed and telephoned to police headquarters.  Investigation showed tracks leading from beneath the window of the room in which the girl had slept to the banks of the river. Then it was recalled that the window had been found open that morning.  Outside was found a sidecomb which belonged to the girl. The tracks were evidently made by a person walking in stocking feet.  Search developed the fact that Miss Williams had left her hats, coats and practically all of her clothing.  Sunday morning and afternoon parties dragged the river below the point indicated by the tracks from the Marshall house.  Dynamite was also used to cause the body, if in the river, to come to the surface, but without avail.  Search of the river banks failed to reveal any trace of the missing girl.  Miss Williams, whose parents live in Madison county [NY], and who has a sister living in Cazenovia, was a bright attractive young woman. At times it is said that she had appeared melancholy, but that she had always appeared brighter and more cheerful afterward. So far as it is known there is no reason for her to have taken her life.

Body Recovered

May 1908

The body of Miss Nellie M. Williams, who disappeared from the home of S. A. Marshall in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] on the night of March 13, and who was believed to have been drowned, was found lying on some driftwood on the north end of a small island in the Chenango river, about a mile below the village Friday morning.  The discovery was made by two young men while fishing, the one who first discovered the body being named Crook. The remains were badly decomposed and were not easily recognized as those of the missing girl, but close examination of the clothing and other means of identification established the fact that it was Miss Williams. The coroner was notified and the body removed to an undertaking establishment and made ready for burial.

The dead woman was the daughter of Humphrey Williams of Cazenovia and had made her home in Norwich for several years. She had been in the employ of Mr. and Mrs. Marshall for the past year, and retired on the night of March 13, sleeping in the parlor on a couch. She had removed her outer clothing and her shoes.  Her watch, pocketbook, ring and other valuables were found on the table the next morning, as she had laid them down, but the room was vacant. A window was open and beneath the window the prints of a stockinged foot was plainly discernible.  The tracks were traced to near the bank of the river, which runs about thirty rods from the house, and there all trace of her was lost. Search was made up and down the river, but owing to high water, no clue was found, and it was believed by some that she might not have bene drowned after all.  Her father and sister were notified and spent many anxious days in searching for her body. A reward of fifty dollars was offered by her father for the recovery of the girl and many men entered into the search.

Obituaries (August 23)

Nora Ryan
Norwich Sun, February 4, 1907

Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]:  The many friends of Miss Nora Ryan of this village will learn with regret of her death which took place Saturday, Feb. 2, after an illness from pleurisy.  She was [20] years of age.  Miss Ryan was born in Oxford and was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Eugene B. Ryan. Besides her parents she is survived by several brothers and sisters, Merritt, Hubert, Ardell, Thomas and George Ryan and Mrs. Frank Hogan.

Norwich Sun, February 5, 1907

After a long illness and of great distress Miss Nora L. Ryan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E.B. Ryan was released from suffering Saturday evening. Everything had been done including several operations by Dr. Glass of Utica to bring help and relief, but without avail.  She was in her twenty-first year and will be greatly missed in the home circle. The funeral was attended form her late home today at 1 pm.

Eugene B. Ryan

April 21, 1852 - September 1, 1907

Eugene B. Ryan died at his home on the East hill at one o'clock Monday morning.  Death was due to an injury to his head received in an accident in his hay barn five weeks ago Saturday by the breaking of an iron pulley.  His skull was fractured, and although two operations were performed, in one of which eleven splinters of bone were removed, and the best of medical attendance provided, he never clearly rallied from the blow.  His life had been despaired of for the past week, and the chances were not in his favor from the start as the wound was a deep one.  Mr. Ryan was born in the town of Solon in Cortland county, April 21, 1852, and was the son of John and Mary Ryan.  He came to Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] when sixteen years of age, and since that time has been a resident, covering a period of thirty-nine years.  In 1874 he married Ellen [Root], daughter of John B. Root, and had since resided on the Root homestead near the Guilford line.  My Ryan aside from farming was engaged in buying horses and cattle at various times.  In politics he was a Democrat, and had served well the town as highway commissioner several terms.  He was a member of Oxford Lodge, No. 175, F.&A,M. Oxford Chapter, No. 254, and Norwich Comandery, no. 46, K.T.  Mr. Ryan was possessed of a fine genial nature, was always kind and cheerful, and the life of every public and social gathering.  He will not only be greatly missed in the home circle but by his fellow townsmen generally.  Besides the widow, deceased is survived by five sons, Merrit, of Mt. Upton, Hubert, Rod, George and Thomas, who reside at home, and a daughter, Mrs. Frank Hogan, of this village.  Nora, a beloved daughter, died last February, just seven months to a day before her father.  He is also survived by his mother, who resides at Rochester, Minn., four sisters Mrs. Mate Malone, Mrs. Wm. Daily, of Rochester, Mrs. Thos. Lynch of Elmira, N.Y. and Mrs. Wm. Sheehan of Minneapolis, and four brothers, Richard, Michael, and William of Rochester, Minn., and John of Minneapolis.  Funeral services will be held at the house this afternoon at one o'clock.  Interment in Riverview  [Oxford, NY]. Services at the grave by the Masonic fraternity.

Ellen (Root) Ryan

Norwich Sun, February 8, 1933

Mrs. Ellen Ryan, widow of the late Eugene Ryan, died at the home of her son, George Ryan, on Thursday evening, Feb. 2, 1933, after a short illness from pneumonia.  Prior to that she had enjoyed a remarkable degree of good health.  She was the only daughter of John B. and Martha Shapley Root and was born Dec. 5, 1856, on the farm on East Hill where she always resided. She was married on Nov. 17, 1874 to Eugene B. Ryan, whose death occurred on Sept. 2, 1907.  Of a quiet disposition, she was most devoted to her home and family and was held in the highest esteem by all who knew her.  Surviving is one daughter, Mrs. Frank Hogan, and five sons, Merritt, Hubert, Rod, George and Thomas Ryan, all of Oxford.  The funeral was held on Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the home of her daughter, Rev. R.A. Gates officiating.  Burial was made in Riverview cemetery [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], her grandsons acting as pall bearers.

Adelaide (Stratton) Bronson

ca 1836 - December 2, 1907

Mrs. Adelaide Stratton wife of Edward D. Bronson, died in Mexico City, Mexico, December 2, aged 71 years.  Mrs. Bronson was the daughter of Albert G. Stratton, and was born in the town of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].  She lived in this village up to the time of her marriage with Isaac L. Bronson of Amsterdam, October 31st, 1855, where she lived many years.  Mr. Bronson died Sept. 27, 1864, and she was again united in marriage with his brother, Edward D. Bronson. They resided in Philadelphia for a time and later went to Mexico. She is survived by her husband and three sons; two sisters, Mrs. Henry M. Juliand of Greene and Mrs. Rector W. Willoughby of Howard, Col.; one brother, Melville B. Stratton of this town.

A Strange Occurrence

October 1907

The death of James Barton recently occurred at Chenango Bridge [Broome Co., NY].  Mrs. Barton, at the time, was visiting a daughter in Pennsylvania and her son Edward sent her a dispatch regarding the father's death.  The same day he received a telegram from his sister informing him that "Mother's body will arrive on Erie No. 2 Saturday."  He was horrified at the news and never for an instant doubted that he had lost both parents, until Saturday, when he was at the depot with an undertaker ready to receive the remains of his mother, when to his astonishment he saw her getting off the train in the best of health.  An error in transmitting the telegram was responsible for the strange coincidence.

Obituaries (August 22)

Catherine Duffy

ca 1831 - January 1910

Mrs. Catherine Duffy, whose residence was in the southern part of the town, died Sunday from liver trouble, aged 79 years.  She was born in Ireland and came to this country nearly forty years ago.  She was the widow of Patrick Duffy, who died two years ago. She is survived by two sons, Will and John Duffy, and one daughter, Mrs. Thomas Dunne. The funeral will be held at St. Joseph's church this morning, at 10:30 o'clock.

Nancy (Parker) Sage

1842 - May 1910

The funeral of Nancy Parker, wife of R.E. Sage, was largely attended at her late home Sunday afternoon.  Rev. Mr. VanWoert of Bainbridge officiated; burial at Union Valley [West Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].  Mrs. Sage had a shock a week previous and at first hopes were entertained of her recovery but later she had another and only lived a few days. She had spent her whole life of 69 years here and was widely known and highly respected and a large circle of friends mourn her loss. She is survived by her husband and her adopted daughter, Mrs. Grover Scott, who lives on the old homestead.  She was an active member of the M.E. church at Union Valley.

Thomas Tifft

July 7, 1829 - November 26, 1910

Coventry [Chenango Co., NY]:  Thomas Tifft died after a long illness at his home in this place on Saturday, November 26, 1910.  He was born in Littleton, N.H. July 7, 1829.  He has been a resident of Coventry the greater part of sixty years.  He was a lifelong member of the Baptist church, and was firm in the faith.  Mr. Tifft was married to Elizabeth A. Parker September 9, 1851 at Millbury, Massachusetts, and immediately moved to Coventry where they have resided ever since.  He is survived by his wife and three children, Frank H. of Greene, George of Brisbin and Mr. F.A. Kelley of Coventry. The funeral was held from his late home on Tuesday at 1 p.m., Rev. S.R. Warrander officiating; burial was in Coventry cemetery.

Theron Sharp

ca 1838 - March 1910

The death of Theron Sharp, aged 72 years, occurred at the home of his stepson, Walter McCullough, Saturday morning.  The funeral was held this afternoon at 1 o'clock at the McCullough home and at the Methodist church at 2 o'clock.  Burial was in Sylvan lawn cemetery [Greene, Chenango Co., NY]

Melvin A. Macomber
1836-1910

Melvin A. Macomber died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. T.L. Terry, at Port Dickinson [Broome Co., NY], Saturday morning, aged 73 years.  Mr. Macomber was a former resident of Greene and during his residence here was traveling salesman for the firm of Stone, Goff and Company of Binghamton, serving in that capacity for 25 years. The funeral was held at the home of his daughter at Port Dickinson at 1:30 o'clock this afternoon. The body will be brought to Greene for burial in Sylvan Lawn Cemetery [Greene, Chenango Co., NY]

Obituaries (August 21)

William Morrell Ketchum

October 4, 1858 - April 12, 1910

W. Morrell Ketchum died at his home on Scott street about 1:00 o'clock Tuesday morning, after an illness extending over six weeks.  Mr. Ketchum was taken with a convulsion Monday noon and never rallied.  Mr. Ketchum was born in Smithville [Chenango Co., NY] October 4, 1858, and was the son of Egbert and Martha Starkey Ketchum.  He was married January 27, 1883, to Hattie Race of Brisbin, daughter of Austin and Sarah Race.  For many years they lived on the old homestead in Smithville, but in 1901 came to this village where the family has since resided.  He was an industrious and genial man and well known in this section.  Several years ago he suffered sunstroke, and it is believed that he never fully recovered.  He is survived by his wife, two daughters, Queenie and Maude, and one son, Leland.  Funeral will be held at the house Friday morning at eleven o'clock and will be conducted by Rev. R.A. Gates.  Burial will be made in Sylvan Lawn cemetery, Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

Janette Elizabeth Kinsman

ca 1829 - April 16, 1910

Mrs. Janette Elizabeth Kinsman died at her home at Lower Page Brook [Chenango Co., NY], Saturday, April 16th, 1910, aged 81 years.  Mrs. kinsman had been in feeble health for some time, and her death was not unexpected by her many friends.  She was esteemed and loved by all who had the honor of her acquaintance.  She is survived by her husband, Austin D. Kinsman, and three nephews, George S. and Merrit W. Betts of Greene, and Frank N. Betts of Chester, Va. The funeral was held Monday, Rev. Lee Warren officiating.  Interment in Sylvan lawn [Greene, Chenango Co., NY]

Ellen (Wedge) Smith

Sept. 22, 1851 – Feb. 9, 1910

Mrs. Eugene Smith (Ella Wedge) entered into rest, Wednesday, February 9th, aged 58 years, after having suffered from heart trouble for some time, and a few days before her death had a shock and did not speak again.  The funeral was held from her late home Saturday.  Rev. I.J. Smith pastor of Afton Methodist church, officiating, and interment at Afton [Glenwood Cemetery, Chenango Co., NY].  Mrs. Smith's former home was in Church Hollow, but since her marriage, 33 years ago, she had resided nearly all the time in the neighborhood where she died.  She and her husband were for a number of years active members of the Congregational church here, but they moved to Afton a few years ago, and while there joined the M.E. church, and had not changed their membership since returning to their farm. the deceased is survived by her husband and two brothers, Frank Wedge of Binghamton and Hibbard Wedge of Pennsylvania.  Mrs. Smith was highly esteemed by a large circle of friends and was a devoted wife and kind neighbor, and her bereaved husband has the sympathy of the community in his bereavement and loneliness.

Sarah Eliza (Rathbone) Race

ca 1842 - March 13, 1910

Sarah Eliza, widow of Austin W. Race, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. B.F. Sanford, in Morrisville [Madison Co., NY], Sunday, March 13, 1910, aged 68 years.  She was the daughter of Amos and Eliza Rathbone, old residents of McDonough, and was united in marriage to Mr. Race, who was a native of Greene, in 1852.  His death occurred in 1902.  They commenced housekeeping on a farm in Brisbin, where they remained during their married life.  Mrs. Race was a prominent member of the Baptist church in that place a greater part of her life. She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Sanford, of Morrisville, and Mrs. W.M. Ketchum of this village, and a son, Arthur W. Race, also of this village. The funeral was held in Morrisville Tuesday evening at 7:30, Rev. George Bower, pastor of the Baptist church officiating.  The interment was made in the family plot at Sylvan Lawn cemetery, Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Wednesday, Rev. O. Lee Warren, pastor of the Baptist church of that village officiating at the burial--Oxford Review, March 19.

Emily (Wheeler) Bartoo

November 1876 - Feb. 23, 1910

Emily Wheeler, wife of Dwight W. Bartoo, died Monday morning at the home of Dr. Jesse E. Bartoo, where she had been staying since returning from the South, after a long and suffering illness.  She was the only daughter of William D. Wheeler of this village, and with the exception of a few years had always lived in Greene, where she had many true and loyal friends who mourn her early death, being only 33 years old.  Besides her husband and father, the deceased is survived by two brothers, Jerry Wheeler of Greene and Henry B. Wheeler of Seattle, Washington. The funeral was held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, the Rev. Percy T. Olton of Zion Church, saying the service for the dead. The bearers were Fred H. Beals, Wm. J. Duntley, Dr. C.N. Guy, Elbert P. Eaton.  Interment in Sylvan Lawn [Greene, Chenango Co., NY].

Albert Page

ca 1843 - May 8, 1910

Albert Page died Sunday night, May 8th, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Frank Willis, at Hartford, Conn., aged 67 years.  Mr. Page left his home in Greene about three weeks ago on a business trip to New York and other places and the news of his death was a great shock to his friends here.  He was vice president of the Greene Manufacturing company, and deacon and trustee of the Central Baptist church, of which he had long been a faithful member.  Mr. Page is survived by his wife and two daughters, Mrs. Frank Willis of Hartford, Conn., and Breta Page of Greene.  The funeral was held at the home on Washington street, Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. O. Lee Warren officiating.  Burial in family plot in Sylvan Lawn [Greene, Chenango Co., NY].

Obituaries (August 20)

Frederick Hubbard Burchard

1855 - 1910

Frederick H. Burchard died at his home on Hayes street, Norwich [Chenango Co.], Tuesday evening, February 8th, as announced in The Times last week.  His death was a great shock to his friends in Norwich as well as the people of Oxford, where his boyhood days were spent.  Mr. Burchard was born in New York city, August 1, 1855, and with his parents removed to Preston in 1857.  In 1865 he moved to Oxford, where he remained until January 1, 1902, when he went to Norwich.  For 28 years he was interested in the hardware business in Oxford.  First he entered the employ of William A. Martin, later going with the firm of Vanderlyn & Company.  In 1888, he formed a partnership with his brother Albert S. Burchard.  In 1902 the firm purchased the business of Daniel P. -?- of Norwich and F.H. Burchard went there to take charge.  The Burchard Brothers company was organized in 1908 and incorporated to take over the interest of the firm.  Mr. Burchard was for nine years, before going to Norwich, chief of the Oxford fire department.  He was village assessor and a vestryman of St. Paul's Episcopal church.  In Norwich he was one of the directors of the Ireland Machine & Foundry Co.; of the Young Men's Christian association and a vestryman of Emmanuel church, a director of the hospital association and an officer of the Business Men's Association.  He was a master mason in Oxford lodge, transferring his membership to Norwich lodge, no. 302.  He was also a member of Harmony chapter, No. 151, Royal Arch Masons and of Norwich Commandery, No. 46, Knights Templar. December 23, 1879, he married Mary Ellen Bruchhausen, daughter of the late Dr. Casper Bruchhausen.  Four children, Elizabeth, wife of Floyd Miner, Leonard, Florence and Margaret, with the wife, survive.  He is also survived by two brothers, Albert S. and George B. of Oxford and by a sister, Miss Prudence Burchard, of New York city.  The funeral was held Friday morning.  Private services were held at the house on Hayes street, followed by services in Emmanuel Episcopal church. The floral offering was large and beautiful, showing the high esteem in which he was held. There was a large attendance of representative citizens of Norwich and Oxford, more than seventy-five attending from this village.  Burial was made in Mount Hope cemetery [Norwich, NY], commitment at the grave by the Knights Templar ritual service.  During the funeral the business places in Norwich were closed as well as here in Oxford.  The citizen bearers were Millard D. McNeil, Frank T. Corbin and Peter V. Newkirk of Oxford and R.D. Eaton, Edward L. Nash and W.C. Hartigan of Norwich. The bearers from Norwich Commandery were Henry Slater, Edward S. Moore, Charles G. Nash, George W. Nagel, W. Brad Doane and Walter C. Case, all past commanders of Norwich commandery.

Alice C. (Squires) Burchard

1854 - 1910

The friends of Mrs. George B. Burchard of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY] were shocked to learn Thursday night that she was stricken with cerebral hemorrhage at the home of her sister-in-law, Mrs. F. H. Burchard of Norwich, and died in a few hours.  She had left Oxford on the morning train, and in company with Mrs. S.S. Stafford expected to return at 7 o'clock.  Mrs. Burchard had just finished supper with her sister-in-law and family and had stepped away from the table, when she exclaimed, "How queer my head feels!  I'm afraid I'm going to have a shock."  She immediately became unconscious and remained in that condition until death ensued. A singular fact is that her death was similar in nearly every detail to that of Frederick H. Burchard three months previous in the same house.  Mrs. Burchard suffered a partial shock three years ago, caused by a growth near the ear.  Mrs. Burchard's maiden name was Alice C. Squires, and she was born in Smithville [Chenango Co., NY] fifty-six years ago, the daughter of Willis and Harriett Chapman Squires, who reside on Scott street in this village.  She was married to Mr. Burchard, December 2, 1874. Given to hospitality and neighborly kindness she was beloved by all her acquaintances.  Her natural kindness and affection worked out through social channels.  She was a member of St. Paul's church, Phoenix Legion, No. 136, N.P.L., the Thimble Club, and other social organizations.  She is survived by her parents and husband.  The funeral was held Sunday afternoon at her late residence and was largely attended. The service was conducted by Rev. Charles D. Broughton of St. Paul's church and interment was made in Riverview [Oxford, NY]. 

Harriet A. (Smith) Sphon

1845 - 1910

Harriet A. Sphon, the eldest of the children of Monson A. and Lauretta Dodge Smith of Oxford, died in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] September 12, 1910.  For more than four years she was a great sufferer from the disease that she only found relief from in death.  Through the long months of suffering, devoted children and kind friends did all that could be done to ease the weary hours of pain.  Mrs. Sphon was born in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] November 23, 1845.  For many years she was a successful teacher in the district schools of this town.  She united with the Free Baptist church of East Oxford in November 1872, and after her removal to Bainbridge united with the Presbyterian church, whose pastor conducted the funeral services.  She married Joseph F. Sphon of Bainbridge, November 18, 1874, and since that time has resided there most of the time.  She was a woman of great determination, strong force of character and though quiet in her ways, her influence was always felt on the side of right and many who confided their troubles to her were comforted by good counsel.  Of the five children, Mrs. James Purvis, Frederick and Milton reside in Bainbridge, the latter giving up his work in Binghamton and returning home to be near his mother during her sickness; Mrs. Warren Gunderman resides in Endicott and Homer is in the United States navy.

Ethel (Ogden) Tompkins

1882 - 1910

The death of Mrs. Ethel Ogden Tompkins, wife of Patrolman Carl Tompkins of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], occurred at their home in that city Saturday evening, and her twenty-two months old son, resulting from her turning on the gas.  Mr. Tompkins went to Syracuse Saturday to play with the Binghamton police in their ball game in that city.  He said nothing had happened to indicate that his wife contemplated suicide and it was a shock to him when he arrived home at midnight to find the rooms filled with gas, and his wife and child dead.  Coroner Hooks declared the deed was caused by puerperal insanity.  She had remarked that "She never would or could go through the same thing again."  Both husband and wife were highly esteemed by their neighbors, and in evening, Mrs. Tompkins was wheeling her child on the sidewalk in a gocart, and nothing indicated that she had anything on her mind to disturb her.  But results showed that she had made preparations for the terrible deed.  Blankets were placed over the door and windows to prevent the escape of the gas and it was conveyed to the pillow on which she and the child were lying through a rubber hose attached to a gas jet, and the hose was pinned to the pillow close to their faces so that it could not get away.  Mrs. Tompkins was 28 years of age and had been married four years. She and her husband were very devoted to one another. She was the daughter of Irvin I. Ogden of Bainbridge, and resided in this village with her parents about twelve years ago. The sympathy of the friends of the family is extended to them in their terrible bereavement.  Mr. Ogden was in town last week, and while in The Times office referred to his daughter with a tender fatherly pride. The funeral will be held in Bainbridge today.

Perry Tillotson

1829 - 1910

The death of Perry Tillotson occurred at his home in the eastern part of the town of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY] on Sunday.  Mr. Tillotson, owing to his advanced age had considerable stomach trouble for several years, and Friday had a bad spell, which confined him to his bed.  His family had no particular anxiety, as he seemed to rally and Sunday morning he sat up while his bed was being aired and changed.  Just before going back to bed he took a drink of water, got into bed and was dead in five minutes, passing peacefully away. Mr. Tillotson had an extensive acquaintance over this entire section.  For over forty years he had been engaged in buying and selling cattle.  He was a man who endeavored to do at all things a little better than he agreed to do, and was content to let the other man have his share of the fruits of his labor.  He was a good citizen, and while of a nature that did not take active part tin public affairs, always exerted an influence for good.  Mr. Tillotson was born in the town of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY] April 4, 1829, and was the son of David and Sallie Simmons Tillotson.  In 1858 he was married to Clarissa Rorapaugh, daughter of Andrew Rorapaugh of Smithville, who died Nov. 23, 1866.  In 1870 he was again married to Julia Rorapaugh, sister of his former wife.  His residence has been during his entire life in Smithville and McDonough, and for many years his face has always been familiar on the streets of Oxford on the days when he shipped cattle.  For several years his sons, Floyd and Richard have practically succeeded him in the cattle business, but he has nevertheless been active up to the time of his death.  In his family life Mr. Tillotson was greatly beloved, was a good neighbor and friend.  Besides his wife he is survived by four sons, Floyd Tillotson of McDonough, Richard Tillotson of Oxford, and Dr. Clarence Tillotson of Colinga, Cal., (children by his first wife); William Tillotson of Garden City, and one daughter Clare, wife of Frank Brown of Hamilton. The funeral will be held at his late residence today (Wednesday) at 12:30 o'clock, Rev. W.S. Milburn, pastor of the Universalist church of Oneonta, officiating.  Interment will be made in Riverview cemetery, at Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]

Blog posts August 6-19, 2018

Listing of blog postings for August 6 to 19, 2018

Marriages

Posted August 6, 2018

Marriage Notices - 1872

     Harry W. Kittredge - Addie E. Brezee (Oneonta)

     Moses Caswell (Afton)

     Margaret Brabarzon - James Kelley (Guilford/Hamilton)

     George S. Harris - Belle Marvin (Binghamton/Greene)

     Charles Rathbun - Frankie Griggs (Whitney Point)

     Francis A. Blair - Frankie A. Hoadley (Greene/Chenango Forks)

     Alonzo Haynes - Mary L. Castle (Colesville)

     Ferdinand Seabolt - Nancy J. VanAlstine (Guilford/Afton)

     George D. Lobdell - Ellen VanDeWorker (Sanford)

     Charles Lucas - Francis Lice (Cincinnatus)

     J.C. Harrington - Alma Hastings (Butternuts)

     Jerome Covert - Emma Pratt (Afton)

Posted August 9, 2018
Mr. & Mrs. Leo Nichols (50th Anniversary, 1956)
Elizabeth Matild aTaber - Howard Carver Fell (1940)
Marriage Notices
     Stowell Green - Nora Keley (Philadelphia/Afton, 1888)
     Burton Smith - Floy Smith (Afton, 1891)
     Charles Pinney - Winnie Randall (Bennettsville/Vallonia Springs, 1903)
     Earle D. Pinney - Lillie R. Whitney (Bennettsville, 1903)
     Vurla J. Sherman - Robert A. Hitchcock (engagement, 1956)
     Beverly Dawn Foster - Lewis D. Whitney (Engagement, 1956)

Posted August 10, 2018
Mr. & Mrs. A.B. Smith (50th anniversary, 1888)
Mr. & Mrs. Gaylord S. Graves (11th anniversary, 1888)
Marriage notices
     Frank Crandall - Stella Graves (Wilkins Settlement, 1879)
     Mary Gilbert - Frank R. Lyon (1888)
     W.E. Gifford - Minnie A. Landers (Bainbridge/Afton, 1888)
     Fred Zwick - Sophia Spencer (Bainbridge, 1888)

Posted August 16, 2018
Robert Andrews - Mary Chapman Moore (Pittsfield, MA/Mt. Upton, 1894)
Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Ives (25th anniversary, Sidney, 1894)
Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Gilmore (30th anniversary, West Bainbridge, 1881)

Posted August 17, 2018
Rev. George A. Liggett - May Caswell (1900)
Mary Selina Roberts - Will Whiting Hovey (1901)
Edward Hinman - Louise R. Brown (1900)
Madeline Dennison - Stephen H. Barrett (ca 1900)
Mary Gait Stockly - Owen Johnson (1901)
Luella Bixby - William C. Carl (1902)

Posted August 19, 2018
Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Booth (15th anniversary, West Bainbridge, 1882)
Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Willis (30th anniversary, Masonville, 1882)
Marriage abduction (William Bidwell, Laurens, Mt. Upton, 1896)
Marriage Notices - 1875
     Mr. J. H. McKee - Frank C. Miner (South Otselic/North Pitcher)
     Henry Elmer - Sarah Kennard (Coventry)
     Allen Campbell - Susan Jones (Greene)
     Mr. J. Handrahan - Mary Finch (Sherburne)
     Mr. L.E. Hildreth - Hattie Clark (Hoboken/New Berlin)
     

Obituaries

Posted August 6, 2018

Death Notices - 1872

     Flora Belle Taylor (Afton, 3y)

     Ida D. Short (Oneonta, 8y)

     Marry H. Pomeroy (Franklin, 36y)

     Vinnie Jay (Franklin, 19y)

     B.C. Gilmore (Marshalltown IA, Coventry)

     George T. Ireland (Coventryville, 5 mo)

     Emily Chapman Bronson (Great Bend PA, Oxford, 38y)

     Emily J. Arnold (Greene, 23y)

Posted August 10, 2018
Leapha A. Davis (Bainbridge, 1888)
Maria M. (Nichols) Fisher (Bainbridge, 1899)
Death notices
     Mrs. John Parsons (1879)
     Leonard Cole (Guilford, 1888)

Posted August 11, 2018
Joel Guy (Afton, 1899)
William Barr (Afton, 1899)
Dilla Scott (Unadilla, 1955)
Death Notices - 1880
     Frances E. Manning (Norwich, 35y)
     Genie Sanford (Norwich, 2 mo)
     Stoddard Brookins (Norwich, 58y)
     Sarah Church (Otselic, 42y)
     Byron B. Shoales (Plymouth, 15 mo)
     John Moore (Oxford, 75y)
     Susan Bowers (Preston, Oxford, 67y)
     Gracie Owens (Binghamton, Bainbridge, 3y)
     Lyman B. Corbin (Hart MI, Bainbridge, 66y)
     Julia Newton (Lafayette IN, Sherburne)

Posted August 12, 2018
Frederick Young (Guilford, 1907)  Civil War Veteran
Mary E. Griffing (Norwich, 1880)  House fire
Orrin Merchant (Guilford, 1880)
Death notice - 1876
     Alfred Fox (Ives Settlement, 5y)
     Lillie Fox (Ives Settlement, 7y)

Posted August 13, 2018
Flora Burlison (Guilford, 1880)
Eliza Bradley (Guilford, 1880)
Homer T. Nichols (Bainbridge, 1880)
Charles S. LaHatt (Norwich, 1880)  Civil War Veteran

Posted August 14, 2018
Nancy Smith (Guilford, 1881)
Zeruah (Gilmore) Yale Burtch (Coventry, 1882)
Anna Jackson (1883)
Charles Jackson (1883)
Mrs. Darius Jackson (1883)

Posted August 15, 2018
Ruth Holdridge (Coventry, about 1883)
Rev. W.G. Queal (Norwich, 1888)
Gertrude I. Brown (Norwich, 1929)
Silas Brown (Norwich, 1941)
Grace M. (Phillips) Brown (Norwich, 1946)
Death Notices - 1894
     Abigail A. Wightman (Norwich, McDonough), 31y)
     Mrs. M.A. Spurr (Columbus, 88y)
     Mrs. Theodore C. Avis (Oxford, 38y)
     Albert O. Johnson (New Berlin, 13y)
     Polly Dickinson (Oxford)
     James Colton (Oxford, 14y)
     Mrs. Albert Wells (South Oxford)
     Mrs. Glover Dwight (Cincinnatus, 74y)
     Andrew J. Reymore (Otego, Bainbridge, 74y)
     Mrs. Seth Marvin (Sidney, Greene)
     Louisa Carr (Bradford Co., PA, East German)
     Clementia Van Dyke Bacon (Binghamton, Mt. Upton, 71y)

Posted August 16, 2018
Charles Hodge (Bainbridge, 1894)  drowning
John Snay (Sidney, 1894)  Train/pedestrian accident
Linn D. Barrows (McDonough, 1894)
Death Notices - 1891
     Eunice J. Keyes (Norwich, 89y)
     Harry Beecher (Norwich, 70y)
     Job N. Stafford (Oxford, 79y)
     Polly Searles (Bainbridge, 91y)
     Ralph S. Baird (Coventry, 68y)
     Lydia Sears (Columbus, 78y)
     Fitch Beebe (Sherburne, 46y)
     Maria Hart (South Plymouth, 84y)
     Albert Chase (Jersey City, NJ, New Berlin, 43y)
     George T. Knapp (Fisher IL, Norwich, 58y)
     Carlos L. Shepard (Joplin City MO, Smyrna, 47y)
     Laura Matthewson (King Settlement, Canandaigua, 71y)
     Eliza Fitch (Delhi, Oxford, 85y)
     Libbie E. McLane (South Solon, Pharsalia, 21y)

Posted August 18, 2018
Elijah Chamberlain (Lincklaen, 1838)
Emily E. (Parker) Davis (Norwich, New York, 1898)
Emma P. (Davis) Worman (Norwich, New York, 1896)
Stephen H. Redfield (Oxford, 1927)
Virgil A. Scott (Norwich, Syracuse, 1934)
Death Notice
     Joseph Hart (Norwich, 10mo, 1838)

Miscellaneous

Posted August 9, 2018

Bainbridge-Guilford HS Freshman 1960

Posted August 10, 2018
Bainbridge Central High School, Class of 1960 - Part 1

Posted August 13, 2018
Lydia (Knapp) Dickinson, A Belle of Former Days - 1880

Posted August 16, 2018
90th birthday celebration - Lois Smith wife of Clark Smith of Coventry - 1879

Posted August 19, 2018
Bainbridge Central High School, Class of 1960 - Part 2

Bainbridge High Class of 1960 - Part 2

Bainbridge Central High School - Class of 1960

"Echo" 1960

Terry Lee Davis

Beautiful and bright, Working girl, Actress

Senior Class Secretary

Jerry Allen Doolittle

Humor galore, Enjoys life, Casual artist

Stephen Floyd Graham

Transfer from Afton, Smiling, Devilish

Arthur Williams Hager

Wisecracks, Sports, Fashion plate

Paul Alcott Hager

Born leader, Purposeful, Golfer

Junior Prom king

Janet Ruth Hayes

Co-operative, Witty, Dependable

Senior Class Treasurer

Marriages (August 19)

Mr. and Mrs. Carlos Booth

15th Wedding Anniversary

[Union Valley, Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY]:  There was a large gathering of relatives and friends at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Carlos Booth on Monday last, and one of the happiest of times enjoyed.  The occasion was the fifteenth anniversary of their marriage.  With more than ordinary pleasure their many well wishers rejoiced with them in commemorating an event in their past lives over which they have no regrets after fifteen years of mingled experience, but only sincere thankfulness and delight.  Many were the expressions of hearty congratulation, and especially as the attention was fixed upon two fine and pretty little girls, twin sisters, the very counterpart of each other, whose lives, like gems of immortal beauty, embellish the crown of their united love. The refreshments served were both rich and abundant, and the business like disposition made of them by all proved the high appreciation felt. After dinner Rev. James Ryder being called upon, returned the thanks of Mr. and Mrs. Booth to their friends for their kind expressions of good will; also, on behalf of the company, wished them in return the best prosperity for future years, closing his remarks with an earnest hope of a blissful reunion of all broken links of affection in the higher world of perfect joy and love.

The company present was as follows:

Elnathan Bromley and wife

Jasper Post and family

Frank Sweet and Wife

Miles Hartwell and wife,

Samuel Gilmore and wife

Frank Fosbury and family

Duncan parker and wife

Rufus Ives and wife

Chester Ives and wife

Lucius Hale and family

Daniel Johnson wife and mother

George Smith and wife

Mrs. M. Reynolds and son

Mark Johnson and wife

Josiah Lyon and daughter

C. Burlison and wife

Lyman Redfield and family

Charles Petley and family

Ransom Sage and wife

Wm. H. Ireland and wife

John Ireland and family

Mrs. J.D. Ireland

Melvin Herrick and wife

Mark Davis and wife

Lela and Ida Davis

D.B. Easton and family

Frank Seeley and wife

Ed. Loomis and wife

Hull Bush and wife

D. Francisco and wife

C.F. Bentley and wife

H.P. Hovey and family

W.A. Hovey and wife

Will Miller and wife

A. Lyon

Richard Bush and family

Rev. and Mrs. j. Ryder

Mr.a nd Mrs. mason and son, of Binghamton

The presents given were a fancy parlor stove, earthenware bedroom set, whole set of dishes, glass set, silver milk pitcher, five different sums of money, silver fruit spoon, majolica soup dish and mustard cup, set of silver tea spoons, two glass bread plates, crochet tidy, corner bracket, glass dish, silver and glass sugar bowl, fruit basket, one napkin ring, set of vases, two towels, two china mugs.

[Note:  Nelson Carlos Booth and Lovisa Bush were married February 20, 1867]

Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Willis

Thirtieth Wedding Anniversary

[Masonville, Delaware Co., NY]:  A pearl wedding is an occasion of rare occurrence, still one in which the participants take great delight.  We are glad that we are able to furnish your readers with a report of the large and pleasant gathering which congregated at the house of Joshua Willis on the evening of Feb. 11th inst.  It was the thirtieth anniversary of his wedding, and his friends determined to honor the glad return of the day by a very choice and well selected number of beautiful presents. the knowledge of this surprise was kept form Mr. and Mrs. Willis. We are all capable of keeping a secret in Masonville, therefore it was no hardship. The weather seemed to endorse al our efforts, and we gave a vote of thanks to the original movers of well laid plans.  The house is one that looks well with a hundred people in it, freely enjoying themselves with ample room for license and comfort.  Mr. and Mrs. Willis are good looking people and characterized by prudence, industry and good religious principles.  Hon. Alpheus Bolt presided and Rev. Ripley congratulated the happy couple upon the friendship of their neighbors and friends and the prosperity that had accompanied all their efforts in building up their home and character in society.  Mr. Whitman alluded to the goodness of God in bestowing health and happiness upon them and theirs, while many homes had been dismembered by death.  Mr. Brown, a neighbor one of the fathers amongst us, related a few early incidents, which were quite amusing.  He gave them an orange, and requested that it be cut in halves so as to give no cause for complaint.  He also stated that Mr. and Mrs. Willis attended the same school in their youthful days, and he did not recollect that there was at any time a variance between them. These exercised concluded with the singing of the doxology.  The presents were numerous and beautiful, and now we wish our good friends a safe and happy way to the golden wedding day.

"There is beauty all around,

When there's love at home.

There is joy in every sound,

When there's love at home."

[Note: Joshua Willis and Elizabeth Ann Whitman were married 11 February 1852]

Marriage Abduction

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, January 25, 1896

William Bidwell was arrested Tuesday evening, at the home of a relative named Wales, near Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], on a warrant issued by Justice Hoye, charging him with abduction, by officer O'Brien, and brought to Oneonta on a late train and will be arraigned this morning.  The warrant was issued on information laid by Rev. O.O. Pierce, who officiated at his marriage a few days since, but who, as soon as he learned the facts in the case, realized that he had been imposed upon and was anxious to do all that could be done to bring the young man to justice.  The unfortunate girl who became infatuated with the young fellow was only 15 years of age last September and is the daughter of one of the most highly esteemed families in the village of Laurens [Otsego Co., NY].  She met him about a year since and, for a long time, the parents of the girl knew nothing of their acquaintance.  When it came to their knowledge, she promised to have nothing more to do with him.  On Thursday last she started for church with some lady friends in that village, and on the way she caught sight of him and when the others entered church she dropped behind and joined Bidwell, who brought her to Oneonta and was married to her by Mr. Pierce.  Bidwell informed the clergyman that she was 18 years of age.  An account of the marriage was sent to this office saying that they had departed on a wedding trip to Philadelphia. The family of the young lady has been heartbroken since the affair and her mother has not closed her eyes in sleep since the news reached her.  All friends of the family of the young lady, and they are many, both in Laurens and Oneonta, and in fact wherever known, will rejoice that the young scoundrel will now be punished for his villainy.  All who have been imposed upon can be relied upon to do what they can to assist.--Oneonta Star

Chenango Union

January 30, 1896

Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY]:  Our community has been somewhat excited by an event which brings sorrow to a very worthy and respected family of Laurens.  A lovely young girl, a mere child, daughter of Mr. David Peet, of Laurens, who often visited relatives here, fell under the fascinations of a young man named Bidwell and eloped with him, returning to his uncle's below this place, with a marriage certificate.  It turns out that Bidwell was a page in the Legislature at Albany, and was arrested for purloining overcoats.  he was out on bail, when he purloined his young bride. The young criminal was arrested here Saturday night and it is hoped that his career will cease for the present. The afflicted family has the sympathy of this community where they have many friends.

Marriages Notices

Chenango Union, July 29, 1875

McKEE - MINER:  In Perryville, July 7, by Rev. A.A. Smith, Mr. J. H. McKee of South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Frank C. Miner of north Pitcher ][Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango Union, August 5, 1875

ELMER-KENNARD: In Preston, June 2, by Edwin Kelsey, Esq., Mr. Henry Elmer to Miss Sarah Kennard, both of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY]

CAMPBELL - JONES:  In Greene, July 25, by Rev. W.H. Gavit, Mr. Allen Campbell to Miss Susan Jones, all of Greene [Chenango Co., NY]

HANDRAHAN - FINCH:  In Sherburne, July 11, by Rev. Ludden, Mr. J. Handrahan to Mrs. Mary Finch, all of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY]

HILDRETH - CLARK:  In New Berlin, July 28, by Rev. L.A. Wild, Mr. L.E. Hildreth of Hoboken to Miss Hattie Clark of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].