Obituaries (November 3)

Frank Fosgate

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, June 29, 1892

The first six months of the year 1892 have chronicled more wrecks on the Ontario & Western than any other similar time since the road was started.  Sunday night a fitting climax of the series was reached in a head end collision at Red Hill, about 18 miles north of Middletown, early Sunday evening.  Train No. 10, the milk, which makes the fastest time on the road, was running south at full speed in charge of Conductor Thomas Leddy and with Engineer Andrew O'Neil, of this place, and Fireman John V. Scott, of Carbondale, on the engine.  The train was first-class and had the right of track.  Light engine No. 73, in charge of Engineer Wheeler and Fireman Frank Fosgate, both of this place, was running north "extra."  In running extra, Engineer Wheeler was supposed to look out for regular trains and to his carelessness the accident is probably due.

When nearing Red Hill switch the engines coming around a horseshoe curve met.  Both engineers saw the threatened danger, reversed their engines and jumped.  Probably the firemen did not see the danger in time to save themselves but whether they did or not will never be positively known.  At any rate, if they made the attempt, they were unsuccessful.  

The engines were completely demolished and wreckage strewed on to the sides of the track.  Engineer Wheeler escaped uninjured.  Engineer O'Neil was at first thought to have escaped with a compound fracture of the leg, a crushed rib and several severe bruises, but is now feared that he has sustained internal injuries which may prove fatal.  He is lying in the hospital at Middletown and his wife and family are with him.

Fireman Frank Fosgate was found in what was left of the tender of his engine, apparently instantly killed by a fracture of the skull at the base of the brain, no other injuries being found on him.  Fireman Scott was thrown under the wheels or under the wreckage and was found caught between the engine and boiler and mangled almost beyond recognition.  The remains of fireman Scott were taken to Carbondale and those of Fireman Fosgate brought to this place [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] at 3:30 Tuesday morning.  Undertaker Breese has charge of the deceased in Davis street.  Both of the firemen leave a wife surviving and Fosgate leaves besides three small children.

Frank M. Fosgate

Chenango Telegraph, January 30, 1912

A dispatch from mobile, Ala., January 25th, says that the mutilated body of a white man was found Thursday above the tracks on a fast mail train on the Louisville and Nashville railroad.  Other parts of the body were found at Hurricane Bayou, 17 miles north of that place.  A search of the clothing of the dead body revealed papers which showed that the man was Frank M. Fosgate of Preston [Chenango Co., NY].  It is thought that he was attempting to leave the train and fell under the wheels.  The relatives of Fosgate at Preston were informed of the accident immediately by telegraph.  William Breese, local undertaker, was informed that the body would arrive in Norwich in a few days. Burial will be made in Mt. Hope [Norwich, NY].  According to the statements of the relatives, Fosgate has been traveling in the southern states for the past year.  He was a recent purchaser of land in Baldwin county in Alabama.  

It has been learned that the Frank M. Fosgate mentioned in the telegram from Alabama, was a youth some nineteen years of age, who left his home in Preston last October for a trip south.  The affair is distinguished by a series of coincidences that make it more gruesome than ever.  The lad's father, Frank Fosgate, Sr. was also  killed on the railroad just before the boy was born.  Monroe Fosgate, who, it is believed, committed suicide in the St. James hotel at Oxford Wednesday night, was a cousin of the youth's father.  The unfortunate man is survived by a sister, Mrs. Daniel Downey of Preston, and two brothers, Cecil and Claude Fosgate, who also reside in Preston.
__________________________

Cecil Fosgate of Preston received a telegram yesterday afternoon from mobile, Ala., stating that the body of his brother, Frank M. Fosgate, was found on the railroad tracks at Hurricane, north of Mobile, he having been killed by a train.  Papers in his pocket showed that he had a land deal with the Sibley Land Company. The message asked as to what disposition should be made of the body.  Last October, Mr. Fosgate, who was a young man, purchased a mustang from a drove in Norwich, broke the horse to harness, packed his belongings and started to drive overland to Alabama.  A few weeks later he was reported in the Review as having reached Oil City, Pa.  Previous to departing he had purchased land in Alabama on a contract to the amount of $1000, by paying $10 monthly.  His father, Frank Fosgate worked on the O.&W. railroad 19 years.  Having taken a firemen's place,  he met his death on his first day's work.

Frank M. Mantel

January 1912

Frank M. Mantel, a Madison county [NY] farmhand, lost his life in the bed of the Erie canal near Kirkville, at noon Tuesday, in what doubtless was one of the strangest storm accidents on record in Onondaga county.  Driving home along the towpath, when the wind was blowing at a 40-mile velocity and a blinding snow was coming down with a vengeance, upon the open countryside, Mantel's bobsleigh, horses and all, was blown into the canal bed and the young man with the equipage on top of him was suffocated in the snow.  Death in two forms leered at Mantel before he yielded.  Upon one side he faced being frozen to death.  On the other he faced suffocation.  His body, embedded firmly in the snow bank and with the weight of the sleigh holding him down, there was no escape for the young man, and eventually he gave up.  Suffocation claimed him, but his body was badly frozen before the last spark of life went out.  An hour later after the accident, Mantel was found head first in the snow and the sleigh on top of him. After some work the body was removed, the horses were unharmed.

Sarah E. (Smith) Kendall

1842 - 1912

Mrs. Sarah E. Kendall died in St. Paul, Minn., at 11:15 last Friday evening.  She was the widow of J.P. Kendall, and was born at East Greene (Brisbin) [Chenango Co., NY] in 1842, the daughter of David and Rhoda Smith.  After the close of the Civil War, with her husband, who was a member of Co. E, 114th Regiment, she removed to the west, going first to Wisconsin and later taking up their residence at Akron, S.D., where he died a few years ago.  She then removed to St. Paul, where she has since resided.  She is survived by three daughters, Mrs. R.E. Squires of Westphalia, Kansas, and Miss Celia Kendall and Mrs. F.R. Hotchkiss of St. Paul.  The remains were taken to Akron for interment.

Death Notices

Chenango Union, January 5, 1870

GLEASON:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 23d, Mr. John R. Gleason, aged 55 years.

WILLOUGHBY:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 23d, Mr. Russell Willoughby, aged 65 years.

MILLER:  In South Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 8th, Miss Sarah Miller, aged 18 years, daughter of James Miller, of Woodhull, Steuben Co.

FLANAGHEN:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 26th, Francis [Flanaghen], son of Barney Flanaghen, aged 2 years.

SKILLEN:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 25th, Lucie E. [Skillen], daughter of Hugh Skillen, Jr. aged 9 months, 9 days.

JUDD:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 27th, Mr. Harvey P. Judd, aged 64 years and 6 months.

PORTER:  In Lawrence, Kansas, recently, Electa [Porter], wife of B.B. Porter, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].

TYLER:  In Waukesha, Wis., Dec. 18th, Mr. John Tyler, formerly of South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

Marriages (November 2)

Greenleaf - Dungay

December 20, 1911

At the  home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Dungay, known as the Davidson farm at Robinson's Mills, South Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Wednesday at 1 p.m. December 20, 1911, occurred the marriage of Miss Mabel Florence Dungay to Iva Edward Greenleaf of Haynes [Chenango Co., NY].  The ceremony was performed by the Rev. R.A. Gates, pastor of the Oxford Baptist church, in the presence of a number of friends and relatives. The wedding march from Lohengrin was played by Miss Nellie Greenleaf, sister of the groom, as the bridal party unattended took their places beneath an arch of evergreens supporting a large white bell and from which white ribbons were suspended. The bride was charmingly attired in a gown of blue messaline with cream all over lace and pearl trimmings.  She carried a shower bouquet of white carnations and maidenhair fern. The house decorations were in green and white.  Following congratulations a wedding luncheon was served.  The bride's table was decorated in gold and white, and the flowers were white carnations.  The bride is a popular young lady, held in high esteem by a large circle of friends and well known in Oxford, who unite in wishing her all happiness and joy in her new life. She is a former student of Oxford Academy and of the training class of Greene High school.  the groom is a prosperous young farmer of Haynes and the son of J.D. Greenleaf of Pharsalia.  On their return from a trip in the west they will reside at Haynes.

Walsh - Stratton

November 29, 1911

Henry W. Walsh of Hartford, Conn. and Jessie L. Stratton of New Britain, Conn., were married Wednesday, evening, Nov. 29, 1911 at their home 81 Edwards street, in Hartford. The bride is a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Eli Stratton of Greene [Chenango Co., NY], and for the past two years has been proof-reader on the New Britain Record.  Mr. Walsh is a prominent business man of Hartford, where they will make their home.

Barton - Parker

February 22, 1911

A very pretty wedding took place Wednesday at the home of Mrs. F. D. Parker, where her daughter, Ruth [Parker], was united in marriage to Mr. Joseph Barton.  The ceremony occurred at high noon, Rev. S.R. Warrender officiating.  Only immediate relatives of the two families were present.  The bride, who is one of Coventry's [Chenango Co., NY] most popular young ladies, was the recipient of some very nice presents. The groom is a well to do farmer.  The happy couple left in a shower of rice and old shoes for a visit in New York city and New Jersey, taking with them the best wishes of a host of friends.  They will be at home to their friends at the Parker Homestead after March 1st.

Hannon - Allen

November 30, 1911

The marriage of Mr. Owen B. Hannon of Canton, Ohio and Miss Emily M. Allen of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY] was solemnized at 137 Hawley street, Binghamton Thanksgiving day. They were attended by Mr. and Mrs. A.L. Jackson, cousins of the bride.  Mr. Hannon was a former resident having spent his boyhood days in Greene and has many friends who extend congratulations.  The bride is a niece of Mrs. John F. Carter.  Mr. and Mrs. Hannon will reside in Canton, Ohio, where  Mr. Hannon has business interests.

Goble - Wyss

Sidney Record, February 15, 1945

Mr. and Mrs. George Goble, Mt. Upon [Chenango Co., NY] residents, recently announced the marriage of their daughter, Ruth Alice [Goble] to Louis G. Wyss, USN, son of Mr. ad Mrs. Bernard Wyss of Riverside.  The marriage was solemnized at the Wedding Bell Chapel, San Diego, California, on Sunday, January 28, 1945.  Mrs. Wyss was attended by her sister, Mrs. Kathleen Baxter.  Mrs. Wyss was employed as a secretary in this village before her marriage.  She is a graduate of the Mt. Upton Central school, class of 1942, and also of the Central City Business school, Syracuse, N.Y.  Mr. Wyss is a graduate of the Sidney High school, class of 1939, and before entering the service was employed as a toolmaker in the Scintilla Magneto plant. The happy couple will make their home at 1801 Bancroft street in San Diego, California, where Mr. Wyss is stationed.

Marriage Notices

Chenango Union, September 9, 1875

CAMPBELL - MERRITT:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], at the home of the bride by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. Reed Campbell of N.Y. City to Miss Mary Merritt.

CRANDALL -BURCHARD:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], July 25 by W.N. Mason, Esq., Mr. Herrick Crandall to Miss Lucy A. Burchard, all of Norwich.

WOOD - WRIGHT:  In Utica [Oneida Co., NY], Sept. 1, 1875, by Rev. A.J. Cowels, Mr. James Wood of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Mrs. Diana Wright.

MILLARD - SOULE:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 2, by Rev. H.W. Talbet, Mr. Frank S. Millard of Ansonia, Conn. to Miss Delia V. Soule of Smithville.

Blog post listing October 14 - November 1, 2018

Listing of blog postings for October 14-November 1, 2018.

Marriages

Posted October 17, 2018

Mary Elizabeth Burchard - Floyd Locke Miner (Norwich / Oxford, 1907)

Maude Ketchum - William H. Purdy (1907)

Inez E. Livingston - Harry G. Kark (1907)
Herbert J. Sherman - Lucy E. Benedict (1907)
Benedict W Scott - Verna a. Hoyt (1907)

Posted October 25, 2018
Rosemary Evelyn Shawler - Donald Robbins Albrecht (Columbus / Mt. Upton, 1941)
Dorothy Prindle Pond - Floyd Linn Shawler (New Hartford / New Berlin, 1943)
Lillian Alice Young - Howard Gould Adams (Norwich, 1939)
Dr. Louis W. Abbamonte - Marion O'Brien (Norwich / Oneida)

Posted October 27, 2018
L. Emilie Cooper - Edgar A. Pearsall (Newark NJ / Oxford, 1910)
Harry Edgar Pearsall - Ursula Hope Devenish (Providence RI / Oxford 1910)
Florence Bryant - Harry Rogers (1910)
Ray Wilder - Dania Handy (1910)
Marriage Notices - 1875
     James Shapley - Alvina M. Farrell (Oxford / Norwich)
     Chauncey Hubbard - Ida M. Campbell (Greene)
     William H.mcNutt - Lillie J. Champlin (Bainbridge / Afton)
     Calvin Johnson - Dora Merrill (Afton)
     Isaac Fuller - Mrs. Sarah M. Taft (Lincklaen / Whitney Point)
     Charles H. merritt - Harriet L. LeBarrow (Afton)

Posted October 30, 2018
Minnie Searles - Christopher Tobey (Bainbridge / Guilford, 1883)
Mr. & Mrs. Chris Tobey (16th anniversary, 1899)
Herman Louis Bolich - Lena Lowman (Sayre PA, 1899)
James n. Wilking - Lois A. Lowman (Sayre PA, 1899)

Obituaries

Posted October 14, 2018

Charles Craig (Carbondale PA, Bainbridge, 1907)  Train wreck

Morris Keglar (Carbonadle PA, Bainbridge, 1907) Train wreck

Emma A. (Waldron) Harrington (Oxford, 1907)

Joseph Dwight VanValkenburgh, Jr. (Greene, 1907)

Charles Snyder (Coventry, 1907)

Posted October 18, 2018
Frank Lyman Jackson (Greene, 1907)
George C. Roberts (Greene, 1907)
Marshall F. Porter (Greene, 1907)
Ben Sherwood (Afton, Carbondale PA, 1907)
Maurice Birdsall (Binghamton, Greene)

Posted October 20, 2018
David Reed (Bainbridge, 1907)
William F. Wells (Newark Valley, 1907)
Eli Watrous (Coventry, 1907)
Joseph Mascovatio (Afton, 1907)
Iva Johnson (Coventry, 1907)

Posted October 21, 2018
Henry Endter (Sherburne, 1907)
Marco E. Merchant (Guilford, 1907)
Eugene Sherwood (Norwich, Binghamton, 1907)
Death Notices - 1907
     William DeLong (Sherburne, 62y)
     Edward E. Caley (Sherburne, 85y)
     Mary Christine Hogan (Sherburne, 1y)
     Albert C. Green (White Plains, 55y)
     Diana S. Richer (Preston, Columbus, 72y)
     Charles M. Purdy (Preston, 83y)

Posted October 22, 2018
Whitman Mowry (Oxford, 1907)
Alanson W. Powers (Oxford, 1907)
Emily (Bartoo) Powers (Oxford, 1914)
Death notices - 1894
     Sabrina Wilcox (Smyran, 52y)
     Mason J. McPherson (Sherburne, 34y)
     Almira Gibson (Mt. Upton, 80y)
     Clyde A. Wavle (Smithville Flats, 5y)
     Mary A. Ludington (Boston, Norwich, 69y)
     L.C. Perkins (Beaver Meadow)
     Grace Fisk (DeRuyter 11y)
     Dwight Byington (Leavensorth KS, Norwich, 63y)

Posted October 24, 2018
Henry Stratton (Smithville, Pharsalia, 1910)
David McMoran (Halstead PA, Greene, 1910)
Minetta "Nettie" (Watrous) Wylie (Coventry, 1910)
Bertha M. Reynolds (Guilford, 1910)

Posted October 26, 2018
Edith R. (Hitt) Burke (South New Berlin, 1943)
George W. Burkett (McDonough)
Lottie S. (Camp) Burlingame (South New Berlin, 1939)
Margaret (Mungle) Burlison (Edmeston, 1938)

Posted October 28, 2018
Esther C. (Hunter) Palmer (Coventry, 1908)
Rodolphus A. Race (Greene, 1908)
Diana C. (Canfield) Landers (Whitney Point, 1886)
Lola Landers (Whitney Point, 1886)
Mary Smith (Afton, 1885)
Emily Merrifield (Norwich, 1894)
Death Notices - 1894
     John C. Tilyou (Masonville, 58y)
     Mrs S.A. Thompson (Sidney, 72y)
     Frank Church ( Mason City IA, Afton)
     Elizabeth Cady (Eaton, New Berlin, 78)

Posted October 29, 2018
William B. Race (Kansas, Oxford, 1910)
Mary Jane Miller (Coventry, Oxford 1911)
John F Carter (Greene, 1911)
E.J. White (Bainbridge, 1886)  Train/pedestrian accident
Death notices - 1894
     Julia O'Donnell (Norwich, 21y)
     Grant L. Chase (Norwich, 10y)
     Viola E. Musson (Norwich, 4y)
     Ruth Elizabeth Collins (Sherburne, 55y)
     Olive G. Adsit (Bainbridge, 12y)
     Harriet M. King (Chenango Forks, 76y)

Posted October 30, 2018
Mary Chafee Schrom (Whitewater WI, 1905)
Col. George Downs Wheeler (Deposit, 1906)

Posted November 1, 2018
Lorenzo Moody (Winters CA, Bainbridge, 1907)
Theodore Willsey (Syracuse, 1907)
Anna Temple (McDonough, 1871)
Death notices - 1871
     Daniel Cornell (Guilford, 79y)
     Stephen P. Cady (New Berlin, 62y)
     Charles R. Jacobs (New Berlin)
     Fannie C. Rogers (Greene, 28y)
     Samuel Jamisson (Greene, 74y)
     Jesse Spencer (Greene, 80y)
     Nancy Padgett (Oxford, 95y)
     William Walker (St. Louis MO, Oxford, 54y)
     Joseph Sprague (McDonough, 76y)
     Mr. J.C. Randall (Pitcher, 24y)
     Dencey Staunton (Columbus, 29y)

Miscellaneous

Posted October 22, 2018

Bainbridge Central High School, Class of 1960, part 6

Posted October 24, 2018
Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY Vital Statistics - 1896

Posted October 28, 2018
Strange happenings in Glenwood Cemetery, Afton, NY - 1885

Posted October 29, 2018
Norwich, NY ghosts -1905

Posted October 30, 2018
Halloween at Bainbridge Central - 1950

Obituaries (November 1)

Lorenzo Moody

December 1907

The Republican office is in receipt of a copy of the Winters Express published in California under date of Dec. 27, 1907, containing the obituary of Lorenzo Moody, an early resident of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], whose father lived on the East side, a mile above town. The deceased married Miss Augusta Campbell, the daughter of Daniel Campbell, a near neighbor.  Burr C. Campbell of Bainbridge is a brother of Mrs. Moody.  It will be remembered that Alexander Moody, father of Mrs. R.D.L. Evans of Bainbridge, left the old farm across the river a few years ago to reside at Menands near Albany.  A little more than a year ago he took a trip to California to visit his brother, Lorenzo and, returning by sea, died on the way.  The older residents of Bainbridge who remember well the prominent families of Moody and Campbell of the East side, in the early time, will be interested in the following history:

"After a lingering illness Lorenzo Moody passed peacefully to rest last Friday evening about 6:30.  Judge Moody had been gradually failing in health for several months previous to the time his illness confined him to his home, and for two weeks before his death was almost helpless; yet he did not go to bed and he died in a reclining chair.  He was 82 years, 9 months and 4 days old.  Lorenzo Moody was born at Granby, Mass., and at an early age was taken to New York state by his parents.  He was married in 1848 to Augusta Campbell, and in 1852 came to California by way of Panama, crossing the isthmus on a mule.  Landing in the golden state where mining was the principal occupation, Mr. moody sought the precious metal at Mormon bar, on the Sacramento river, but soon tired of that and moved to Yolo county.  Here he followed farming in the old Buckeye district, and in 1855 bought the farm where his only son, Homer, now lives.  When Winters came into existence, Mr. Moody moved to town, and was appointed postmaster by President Grant, serving in that office eleven years.  He was justice of the peace at Buckeye in 1852, and served in the same office at Winters for two terms.  Several years ago, Judge Moody retired from all business except that connected with the Warehouse Association, to which he was always faithful.  in business Mr. moody was the soul of honor, and in all his walks of life was held in high esteem.  Besides his aged wife, Mr. Moody's only relatives on the coast are his son Homer, and family.  One of his brothers came out from New York a year or so ago, and returning by water, died on the way home.

The funeral was held Sunday, Rev. H.C. Culton conducting a short service at the home of the deceased, after which Damocles lodge no. 33, Knights of Pythias escorted the body to the cemetery and laid it to rest with the rites of the order, of which Mr. Moody had been an honored member.

Mrs. Moody is 81 years old and is in poor health. The grandchildren, children of Homer Moody, are Charles, Lloyd, Fred, Ernest and Emma."

Theodore Willsey

September 1907

Bert Wilsey received a telegram on Wednesday morning of this week containing the painful news of the death of his brother, Theodore Willsey, who expired very suddenly at his home in Syracuse [Onondaga Co., NY] the evening previous.  Heart failure was the cause of his death.  Mr. Willsey was a former proprietor of the Central hotel, Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]. He is survived by a wife, two brothers, Austin, of Syracuse, and Bert, of this place, and one sister, Miss Viola, also of Banbridge.  Mr. and Miss Willsey left for Syracuse this morning.

Anna Temple

Chenango Union, April 26, 1871

TEMPLE:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], April 10th, after a lingering illness, Anna [Temple], wife of Robert Temple, aged 37 years, 2 months and 23 days.

The deceased was born in Castleblayney, Ireland, enjoying in her own country privileges of education and society of which few could boast.  She came to this country and made it her home when quite young and in early life gave her heart to the Savior, uniting with the Methodist Episcopal Church.  In every relation of life, as a wife and mother, and as a Christian, she was exemplary, deeply attaching herself to her family, and gaining the love and esteem of all who knew her.  A light has been extinguished in her household that can never be replaced. The deep sorrow that rests upon the heart of the husband, and upon the hearts of the children, the sympathy and kind words of friends may relieve, but can never remove.

"I am weary, oh, how weary,"

Oft would her feeble voice declare;

But now her spirit reigns in glory--

No pain or suffering enters there.

Death Notices

Chenango Union, April 26, 1871

CORNELL:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], April 18th, Daniel Cornell, Esq., aged 79 years.

CADY:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], April 10th, Dea. Stephen P. Cady, aged 62 years.

JACOBS:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], April 20th, Mr. Charles B. Jacobs.

ROGERS:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], April 12th, Mrs. Fannie C. Rogers, aged 28 years.

JAMISSON:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], April 15th, Mr. Samuel Jamisson, aged 74 years.

SPENCER:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], April 17th, Mr. Jesse Spencer, aged 80 years.

PADGETT:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Apirl 15th, Mrs. Nancy Padgett, aged 95 years.

WALKER:  In St. Louis, Mo. April 1st, Mr. Wm. Walker, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 54 years.

SPRAGUE:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], April 11th, Mr. Joseph Sprague, aged 76 years.

RANDALL:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], March 8th, Mr. J.C. Randall, aged 24 years and 9 months.

STAUNTON:  In Columbus [Chenango Co., NY], March 13th, Dencey [Staunton], wife of William Staunton, and daughter of James G Ames, aged 29 years and 11 months.

Obituaries (October 31)

Mary Chaffee Schrom

July 1905

The Gazette of Whitewater, Wis., in its issue of August 3d, announced the death in that city of a former resident of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Mrs. Mary Chaffee Schrom, wife of James B Schrom, son of the late Col. Hiram Schrom of this village, which occurred July 29th, 1905. The father of the deceased, Mr. Chaffee, was, not far from sixty years ago, the landlord of the Central House of Bainbridge, in those times called a tavern.  It was a good public house, excellently well kept by Mr. Chaffee.  His daughter, the deceased, is well remembered by many citizens of this place as a most estimable and attractive young lady. The Gazette says:  "Mrs. Schrom was a woman of many noble qualities, a sincere Christian, a devoted mother and a good friend.  She was especially devoted to her home and children."  She is survived by one son and three daughters.  She was a member of St. Luke's Episcopal church of Whitewater.  Her age was about 70 years.

Colonel George Downs Wheeler

Colonel George Downs Wheeler

1818-1906 

Obituary

Colonel George Downs Wheeler, Deposit's [Broome Co., NY] "Grand Old Man," died at his home in this village Monday night, Jan. 1, 1906, at 10 o'clock, after an illness of about six weeks, due to a weakness of the heart and the infirmities of age.  Mr. Wheeler was born in Deposit, June 24, 1818, and has always lived here, his father, Deacon William Wheeler, having been one of the pioneers of this village.  The Colonel's relation to Deposit has been like that of the landmark.  So long and so well has he been identified with its commercial prominence and substantial prosperity that his departure from this life, notwithstanding his age, will be as the severance of a large limb from a gigantic tree.  In his personal relations Mr Wheeler was a kind, warm-hearted gentleman and a public spirited man.  He was the first to heed the cry of distress and the last to leave the house of sorrow.  His purse was open to every legitimate want and his arm and his time were at the disposal of every good work.  His own advancement was secondary to all else. This man ran the course of life smoothly and without clamor.  His step was light and he passed in and out on his errands of good, public and private, without the herald of notoriety.  Mr. Wheeler was a great Sunday school worker.  He was superintendent of the Presbyterian Sunday school of this village for a quarter of a century and leader of the choir for over thirty years.

Mr. Wheeler was of Welsh descent and an illustrious example of a hardy race of pioneers, possessing all the requirements of primitive times. At his birth there were only twenty-five houses in Deposit, so that he witnessed its development from a very small beginning.  He attended school here, receiving a fair education which was supplemented by a course in the Delaware Academy at Delhi.  While not in school during the years of his boyhood, he assisted his father in the lumbering business and on the farm. After leaving the academy he engaged with his brother, Addison J. Wheeler, in the mercantile business in Deposit, the style of the firm being A.J.&G.D. Wheeler. They dealt in dry goods and general supplies; and Mr. Wheeler was thus engaged in trade at the time of the building of the Erie Railroad, and was present to see the first shovelful of dirt placed which initiated that great enterprise.  Like his illustrious ancestors, he was noted for his agility, strength and courage.

Mr. Wheeler was first married September 17, 1845, to Antoinette Downs, of Colchester.  By this union there was one daughter, also named Antoinette, who is the wife of Robert M. Cannon.  Colonel Wheeler's second wife was Mary Waterbury, of Middletown, Conn., a daughter of Rev. Daniel Waterbury, the founder of the Delaware Institute and a graduate of Union College and of Princeton Theological Seminary, and a sister of Hon. Daniel Waterbury, of Margaretville, Delaware county.  She died leaving one son, George W., who, with his family reside at the homestead.

The Colonel continued in business with his brother about six years, when he sold out and took up farming and dairying.  He was prominent in military circles in Broome county and throughout the state, having the finest physique and the most attractive military bearing of any man in any company or regiment with which he was connected.  He joined the state infantry of the state militia, under the appointment of quartermaster of the 261st Regiment, August 7, 1839.  June 24, 1840 he was appointed adjutant by Governor William H. Seward, who, realizing his ability, commissioned him Lieutenant Colonel on April 10, 1841, and on April 18, 1844, he was commissioned Colonel by Governor William C. Bauck.  He continued as Colonel of the regiment until the militia was disbanded.  He was active in raising the first company organized in Delaware county for service in the Civil War.  Mr. Wheeler was supervisor of the town of Deposit, and a member of the state Legislature in 1876; a life member of the New York State Dairymen's Association, and a frequent contributor to the leading agricultural journals of the state.  Thus it will be seen that Colonel Wheeler was a man of excellent endowments, the possessor of many talents faithfully improved, an example of a rounded nature, well developed physical, mentally and spiritually.

Surviving him are his two daughters, Mrs. Robert Cannon, of Deposit, and Mrs. H.K. Wilcox, of Middletown; also his son, George, of this village. The funeral will be held at the Presbyterian Church tomorrow (Thursday) afternoon at 3 o'clock.  Burial in the family plot in laurel hill cemetery.

Funeral

At four o'clock last Thursday afternoon, the mortal remains of our respected townsman, Col. George D. Wheeler, were borne to their last resting place on the sunny slope of "Laurel Hill," overlooking the village of Deposit and the beautiful Delaware valley which he so loved. A short prayer service was held in the home at 2 o'clock.  By 3 o'clock the Presbyterian Church was filled by a large concourse of friends and townsmen to pay their last tribute of love and respect. The entire community felt that they had a claim on Mr. Wheeler, so it was most fitting that the leading ministers should assist in the services.  Rev. W.L. Bates read the 91st Psalm and Rev. J.S. Tredinnick offered prayer. Rev. J.H. Colelough, his pastor, made most appropriate remarks; taking for his central thought Isaiah's words,"Precious in the sight of the lord is the death of his saints;" and John's words, "Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord," lifting the thoughts of all to the great joy of this heroic spirit, "God's soldier going home," entering into his reward and receiving a crown of glory. Then in a beautiful eulogy telling of the places left vacant in the home, in the village, and in the church by the death of Mr. Wheeler; and that only love can fill these vacant chairs.

Mr. Wheeler's Bible class, which he loved and taught so faithfully, was represented by twelve ladies who were able to be present out of the whole number.  They occupied seats near the friends, and about fifty elderly men occupied seats of honor in the body of the church. The floral tributes were many and beautiful.  The pall-bearers were C.S. Minor, Charles E. Mastin, of Chicago, a brother of F.E Mastin, C.E. Scott, Ezra Miles, George W. Demoney, A.E. Lovejoy. The ushering was in charge of J.S. Minor and S.B. Isaac.

Sleep on! Sleep on! ye toilers of the past,

Heeding not summer's heat or drifting snow,

Nor village lights as through the night they glow,

While the grand old river flows on below.

O, noble ancestry of Deposit!

Potent forces to shape her destiny,

Of future civilization the key,

Generations will pay homage to thee.

Halloween at Bainbridge Central - 1950

Halloween Celebrations - 1950

Bainbridge Central School

Bainbridge News & Republican, November 9, 1950

Kindergarten

Halloween brought many ghosts, witches, clowns and story book characters to kindergarten.  The morning children paraded in the cafeteria before three judges, Mrs. Kenneth Parker, Mrs. Alan Black and Mrs. Vincent Benjamin.  They had a difficult time selecting the winners but they finally chose Richard Tripp as a red headed bride, the funniest, Shirley Engle, a pumpkin, as the prettiest, Shirley Wilcox, a drum majorette, the cutest, Jeanne Rosa, as Little Red Riding Hood for the best story book character, Kenneth Mott dressed as an old witch and Faye Bliss dressed as a scary ghost, won the prizes as the most gruesome. The most original was Stanton Knapp dressed as a Chinaman. The best likenesses were Mary Ellen Morris as a hobo and David Martin as a monkey.

The parade visited all the lower grade rooms and then returned to the kindergarten room for refreshments.

Our room mothers, Mrs. Carl Hovey and Mrs. William Rosa served orange coconut pudding decorated like jack-o-lanterns and Halloween cookies.  Each child's place was decorated by a lollypop resembling an old witch.

The afternoon kindergarten joined in the school parade.  Several of the children were happy to win prizes.  Dennis and Judy Wilcox were dressed as a ring bearer and flower girl, Gary and Roger Hutchinson were Peter Pumpkin Eater and his wife, Dave and Gale Meek were Dutch twins.

The children were delighted by the candy apples and popcorn that were served by Mrs. Tracy Day and Mrs. Carl Hutchinson.

Mrs. Hohreiter

We are proud of the four students in our grade who won prizes for their Halloween costumes. They are, Lola Talcott who was a sailor, Roger Felske, our Scarecrow, Jimmy Rosa, our cowboy, and Tobey Klinetob who was a "Tin Man."  We were very surprised when a "witch" came in our room last Monday with candy in her witch's kettle for each of us, but we were also very pleased to welcome Mrs. Lane in her masquerade costume.

Miss Costello

Our Halloween party last Monday was a great deal of fun.  Kenneth and Lee Thoms as Jack and Jill, Patricia Sherman and her brother as a "knife and fork" won prizes this year.  There were a number of us who dressed up, however, Little Bo Peep," a princess, a chinaman with a real queue, a Japanese girl and many others were among us.  Out class mothers, Mrs. Thoms and Mrs. Sherman, had charge of our party for which we are very grateful to them.  In art this past week we have been working with clay. Bertha Haynes, Gladys Ruling and Raymond Brewer are our best artists.

Grade 2 - Miss Hoffman

A number of us won prizes for our Halloween costumes.  Among them were:  Vickie Johnson, "Light House"; Sam Delassio our "Caught in Perch Pond Fisherman"; Kent Fargo, who was "King Arthur"; Bonnie Loker an "Old-Fashioned Girl"; Dawn Terry as our Halloween "Witch"; Pat Yenson as "Raggedy Ann," and Dedra Day with her sisters as the "Three little Pigs."  Mrs. Best, Mrs. Partridge and Mrs. Hovey, our grade mothers, brought us cookies and chocolate milk for our party.  Many other mothers were also here.

Marriages (October 30)

Tobey - Searles
Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, November 17, 1883

On Thursday afternoon, November 8th, occurred one of the happiest events of the season at the residence of Mr. Abner Searles in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], it being the marriage of their daughter, Minnie [Searles], to Christopher Tobey, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].  At three o'clock the bridal party entered the west parlor and standing under the arch of evergreens, from which hung the lucky horseshoe, they were met by Rev. D.N. Grummon, of Bainbridge, who performed the ceremony in a very impressive manner.  Prof. C.S. Foote ably presided at the organ. After the happy couple received many hearty congratulations, the party repaired to the dining room, where a bountiful repast was spread, from which after nearly one hundred had partaken, many packages were taken up and sent to absent ones.  The high estimation this couple hold in the hearts of their many friends was made manifest by the useful and valuable presents.  The total valuation of the presents was about $150.  Guests were present from Afton, Guilford, Oxford, Greene, Unadilla, Binghamton and Cortland.  The newly married couple received a warm reception at Mrs. Tobey's mother of the groom on Friday and took the six o'clock train on Saturday morning to visit friends in Oneida, Utica and Rome.

Mr. & Mrs. Chris Tobey
November 1899

Sixteen years ago, on Wednesday, Nov. 8th, Mr. and Mrs. Chris Tobey were married by Rev. D.N. Grummon, then pastor of the Presbyterian church of Bainbridge, at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Abner Searles, of Searles Hill.  There were over one hundred guests present and it was an occasion of pleasant greeting and congratulations that launched the young couple upon life's journey together.  The friends of Mr. and Mrs. Toby had thought to make the wedding anniversary of this year as complete in observance as was the first wedding festival of the years ago.  And to add zest to the entertainment it was the desire to make it a perfect surprise to Mr. and Mrs. Toby and a conspiracy was entered into to consummate plans, to notify guests, to decide upon gifts, to prepare elaborate refreshments and above all to meet Mr. and Mrs. Toby, for special inquiries in various ways, with that harmless air of innocence, which sometimes creates suspicion. The conspirators were quite successful in their efforts of secrecy until two or three days before the anniversary of last week; the bridegroom, Mr. Toby, began to surmise there was something unusual in the air, and finally the plot to surprise him was revealed--and then he too joined the conspiring forces to mystify, surprise and give his bride pleasure.  Some friends of Mrs. Toby's in West Bainbridge were exceedingly anxious that she should visit them on Tuesday of last week, and she went, her house in the meantime being invaded by a party who soon prepared it for receiving on the morrow as many guests as were present at the wedding of 1883.  People began arriving on Wednesday morning, and before noon eighty had assembled and welcomed Mrs. Toby with joyous congratulations as she entered her home, having been sent for to meet unexpected visitors.  It was a glad time for Mr. and Mrs. Toby to receive this spontaneous expression of love and friendship from so many and in such a delightfully warm and hearty manner.  A handsome dinner was served which the kind forethought of friends had provided and the day was a joyous one for Mr. and Mrs. Toby and children and for those who came to wish them many more years of happy wedded life. There were a number of valuable gifts made to emphasize the anniversary meeting.  There were friends from Sidney, Guilford, Harpursville, Norwich and Vermont besides Bainbridge and the surrounding vicinity.

Bolich - Lowman

November 8, 1899, Sayre, Bradford County, PA

Within the sacred walls of the Church of the Redeemer was solemnized last evening the marriage of Mr. Herman Louis Bolich, and Miss Lena Lowman, daughter of Mrs. Francis Lowman, Chemung St.  Shortly after the church clock tolled the appointed hour of six the notes of the Mendelsohn wedding march sounded through the handsome edifice. The vestibule doors were opened and the bridal party entered.  Up the broad aisle, hemmed in on either side by such a vast concourse of relatives and friends, as seldom gathers there on a similar occasion, walked the four ushers, Messrs. F.K. Stephens, Esq., Ray Lowman, James Wilking, of this place, and Claude Thompson, of Towanda, escorting the bride and her attendants.  Following the ushers came the four little flower girls, Misses Eugenia Forsythe, Augusta Bolich, Clara Bolich and Agnes Lowman.  They were prettily dressed in white and carried a flower covered frame.  Then came the maid of honor, Miss Lois Lowman, a twin sister of the bride. She wore a dress of white over pink silk and carried a beautiful bouquet of chrysanthemums. The bride followed attended by her brother, Seymour Lowman, Esq., of Elmira.  At the foot of the chancel they were met by the groom and his best man, Mr. Ward Williams, of Phillipsburg, Pa. The ring part of the Episcopal ceremony was performed at the foot of the chancel by the rector, the Rev. Robert Bell. The bride and groom and their attending couple then entered the chancel where the ceremony was concluded beneath a flower bell and an arch of green.  The groom then led his bride from the church while the Lohengrin wedding march was rendered as a recessional to the happy nuptial.  Immediately after the ceremony a reception was held at the home of the bride's mother on Chemung St.  The bridal party, the immediate families of the bridal couple and the out of town guests were present.  While the wedding supper was served the bridal party was seated at the bride's table, which was handsomely decorated with chrysanthemums and smilax.  The bride's gown was of white silk trimmed with lace and orange blossoms.  The long bridal veil was held with a cluster of orange blossoms.  She carried a bouquet of bridal roses and wore a pretty brooch, which was the gift of the groom. The room, filled with elegant presents bespoke the popularity and the friendship which the bride enjoys.  Mr. Bolich is one of Sayre's most prominent young business men.  He is the junior partner in the hardware firm of Bolich Bros.  He is also a member of the borough council from the first ward, a member of the Wilbur Hook & Ladder company and enjoys a large acquaintance.  His bride, while having lived here but a few years, has made herself highly favored and honored in the esteem and regard of all who know her.  She was engaged in the Kindergarten work.

Wilking - Lowman
December 20, 1899, Sayre, Bradford County, PA

Mr. James N. Wilking and Miss Lois A. Lowman, daughter of Mrs. Fannie S. Lowman, Chemung street, were married at the church of the Redeemer at 10:30 o'clock this morning Mrs. Charles Haupt presided at the organ. The opening of the processional wedding march announced the entrance of the bridal party. The ushers, Messrs. Harry Lowman, Clare Welch, Ray Lowman and George Wilking, entered first followed by the maid of honor, Miss Elizabeth Hovey of Bainbridge.  Lastly came the bride accompanied by her brother, Seymour Lowman of Elmira. At the altar they were met by the groom and the best man, Arch Wilking, brother of the groom.  The Episcopal wedding ceremony was performed by the Rev. Robert Bell.  The bridal party departed from the altar while the Lohengrin wedding march was rendered.  A reception and wedding breakfast was tendered to the immediate relatives and out of town guests at the bride's home immediately after the ceremony.  Mr. and Mrs. Wilking left on No. 4 this noon for a wedding trip in Easton Allentown and vicinity.  Upon their return they will reside at the groom's home on Elmer ave. The bride wore a brown tailor made gown with cream white yoke. She wore a brown hat trimmed with white and carried a prayer book.  The maid of honor's gown and hat were of blue, trimmed with white. She carried a bouquet of red carnations.  The church and residence were trimmed with holy and flowers.  Mr. Wilking is a machinist in the Lehigh Valley shops.  He is secretary of the Wilbur Hook and Ladder company and is well and favorably known throughout the community.

Norwich NY Ghosts - 1905

Claim That They Have Seen Ghosts

Norwich Sun, November 28, 1905

Exciting stories have been circulating recently concerning a ghostly apparition which is claimed to have been seen at the Henry R. Follett residence in the north portion of the village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].  It is said this ghost appears in the dead of night in the form of a hearse drawn by white horses, which proceeds slowly through the grounds.  Many people have seen it.  It is understood that the residents of the neighborhood are loathe even to step into a neighbor's house lest they may be accosted by this weird spectacle.

The handsome residence of Mr. Follett is situated on the highest elevation of North Broad street at the extreme end of the village, commanding a beautiful view of the surrounding country and it is not unlikely that the ghosts would select such a slightly place for their nightly haunts.

A reporter found Mr. Follett in his office and questioned him regarding the apparitions.  He said, "I can not affirm positively that there are ghosts up at the old place but on the other hand I shouldn't be a bit surprised if there were.  Everybody knows that the old furnace building which used to stand just across the road from there, was literally infested with ghosts.  Since it was torn down, I suppose they have been homeless and waiting for a good chance to find a vacant house.  When I left they undoubtedly saw their opportunity and moved in.  No, the spirits have no lease, they are just squatters--tenants at sufferance so to speak. But if they do not pay some rent pretty soon, I may decide to evict them."

"But how" queried the reporter.

"Get some of my friends, the clergy, to go up there and exorcise them in due and ancient form, with bell, book and candle," said Mr. Follett, "I understand it is easy enough if you have the formula."

"Is it true?" asked the reporter, "that you offer $25 to anyone who will sleep there over night?"

Mr. Follett looked apprehensive.  "No indeed," he hastened to say, "but I will pay that sum for the capture and delivery of the hearse and horses; they are worth it as a curiosity. This offer is open to Merton Holmes, too."

"Do you really believe in ghosts?" was the final question.  

"Sure thing," said Mr. Follett solemnly.

Obituaries (October 29)

William B. Race

December 2, 1823 - December 7, 1910

The remains of William B. Race were brought here from Kansas Saturday and interred in the family plot in Riverview cemetery [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY].  Mr. Race was the son of William B. Race of Oxford and left for Kansas about thirty years ago.  He has not been very actively engaged in business in the West, speculating some, but living for the most part a retired life.  Within a year he moved from Thayer to Ottawa, Kansas.  In her early years he clerked for J.W Clarke & Co., beginning at the time when the old canal went through.  He was actively engaged in business in Oxford before leaving for the west, and with Cyrus Gray and John R. Wheeler conducted the corner store where Baldwin & Mead are now located, under the firm name of Gray, Wheeler & Race.  Mr. Race was twice married, his first wife being Louisa M. Powers, daughter of Myron Powers, and her death occurred in 1885.  Later he married Mrs. Mary Emery, who still survives him; also three sons, Loren D., William B. and Harold D. Race, all of Ottawa; and several nieces living in Oxford, Mrs. B.M. Emerson, Miss E. Christine Race, Charles B., and Harold Race.

Mary Jane Miller
ca 1834 - February 17, 1911

Miss Mary J. Miller, for a number of years a resident of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], died February 17 at the Chenango Valley Home in Norwich, aged 77 years.  Coventry [Chenango Co., NY] was the birthplace of Miss Miller, where she was left motherless when less than a week old.  Her father's death occurred soon after and she was then taken into the home of Underhill Miller of South Oxford, where she adopted their name and remained for a number of years. After the death of her foster parents she resided in different families in town and village until ten years ago when she went to the home for aged women in Norwich.  The deceased was a woman of quiet nature and excellent disposition, and was a member of the Baptist church.  Among her relatives are a niece and nephew in this village, Miss Sarah A. Moulton and George A. Moulton. The funeral services were held from the Chenango Valley Home Monday, February 20, Rev. J.L. Ray officiating, and burial was in Mt. Hope cemetery, Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]

John F. Carter
1840-1911

John F. Carter died at this home very suddenly, of heart trouble, last Sunday afternoon, in the 72d year of his age.  Although subject to the trouble, his death came as a great shock to his family, as he appeared to be unusually bright and happy on that day.  He is survived by his widow, one son, Orrin, two grandchildren, Misses Mollie and Ruth Carter, and by three sisters, Mrs. Frank Gray of this place, Mrs. George Hart of Candor, and Mrs. John Forbes of Texas.  The funeral services will be held at the home Thursday afternoon at 3 o'clock.  Rev. H.L. Hubbard, a former resident of Greene, and a friend of the family, will officiate.  Interment in Sylvan Lawn Cemetery [Greene, Chenango Co., NY].  Mr. Carter has resided in this town since he was about 12 years of age.  He was a man of sunny disposition, an optimist in all the word implies.  His home was always open to the struggling or unfortunate, and many a young man has been carried thro' hard times and helped to better things through his generous nature.  "Uncle John" will be greatly missed by a very large circle of relatives and friends.

E.J. White

Afton Enterprise, October 15, 1886

A shocking accident occurred at Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Monday afternoon at half past one o'clock.  As Mr. E.J. White who had recently purchased the jewelry store of I.P. Hoff, was standing near the depot waiting for a westbound train to pass, he was run over and instantly killed by an extra freight going in an opposite direction.  Mr. White had been a resident of Bainbridge only a short time, and had just returned from New York city, where he had been to order goods, and was on his way to the depot to see about their arrival when the accident occurred.  He was unmarried and of excellent habits.  His parents reside at South New Berlin.  He was 26 years of age.

Death Notices

Chenango Union, November 8, 1894

O'DONNELL:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Miss Julia O'Donnell, Daughter of Martin O'Donnell, age 21 years.

CHASE:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 4, 1894, Grant L. [Chase], son of Edwin and Harriet chase, age 10 years.

MUSSON:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 5, 1894, Viola E. [Musson], daughter of Uri and may Musson, age 4 years.

COLLINS:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 28, 1894, Ruth Elizabeth [Collins], wife of Myron Collins, age 55 years.

ADSIT:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 26, 1894, Miss Olive G. Adsit, age 12 years.

KING:  In Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY], Oct. 26, 1894, Harriet M. [King] widow of Hiram King, age 76 years.

Glenwood Ghosts(?)

Strange Happenings

Afton Enterprise, October 9, 1885

A great many strange things are happening in this place of late.  Why this should continue is a mystery to all.  The school argument, the Old Woman's Gossiping club, and various other subjects have been discussed until the themes, have grown stale, and the eager, craving public want something to satisfy their appetite for news.

The Enterprise strives to keep pace with the time, and to that end has published articles that have hurt the feelings of some. But news is news, and the very latest, up to the hour of going to press is a real live ghost story. We were informed that a ghost was seen coming out of the Glenwood Cemetery, and made its way toward Mr. Harris Briggs' barn near the creek in the vicinity of the burying ground. As the ghost did not make its appearance until after dark, we communicated with the fighting editor and he agreed to "see the thing through."  And he did.

After stationing himself at a safe distance from where the supposed ghost was reported to have been seen, he waited rather impatiently for its appearance.  He was not obliged to wait long, however, for in a short time a person appeared in the shape of a gray haired man.  The scribe thought, of course, that the gentleman, who is a married man, was there to visit the last resting place of some dear friend--or perhaps to see the ghost.  Not wishing to make his presence known, the fighting editor kept mum, and in about ten minutes another person appeared on the scene. This person was dressed like a woman, but as she was not enveloped in a white outer garment, as ghosts generally are, the scribe thought that perhaps she, too, had come to the village of the dead out of respect to some departed friend.  And such proved to be the case, although the friend was alive instead of being buried, for no sooner had she made her presence known than the gray haired gent went to where she was, and after a loving embrace the two departed together.

"Great Scott!" almost screamed the man of the pen, and having come to the conclusion that these persons were the ghosts he was after, he gathered "unto himself" his possessions and departed, his puzzled brain thinking what will be the next on the program. We presume the "next" would have been exceedingly interesting if the gentleman's wife had been out looking for the "ghost" the same evening.

Obituaries (October 28)

Esther C. (Hunter) Palmer

September 1908

The death of Mrs. Daniel Palmer occurred Thursday at her home in the southern part of the town.  Death was caused by shock.  Mr. and Mrs. Palmer had been calling at Ward Gifford's on Wednesday evening and started for home about 9:30 o'clock.  On the way home she was stricken and death came about 7 o'clock Thursday evening.  Mrs. Palmer's maiden name was Esther C. Hunter.  She was the daughter of Marcus Hunter of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], and was born in that town in 1859.  She was married to Mr. Palmer in 1877, and had since resided in that neighborhood.  She is survived by her husband and two daughters, Mrs. Ray Seeley of Walton, and Mrs. Roselle Haskins of Coventry.

The funeral of Mrs. Daniel Palmer was largely attended at the Congregational church Sunday afternoon, Rev. S.A. Warrender officiating.  Interment in Coventry cemetery.  Mrs. Palmer was one who was loved and respected by all who knew her, especially in the home.  She leaves to mourn her loss a husband and two daughters, Mrs. Grace Seeley of Cooperstown, and Mrs. Cassie Haskins of Coventryville.

Rudolphus A. Race

1855 - 1908

R.A. Race, one of the best known insurance men in this section of the state, died at his home on South Chenango street, Tuesday night at midnight.  Mr. Race had been in poor health for several months but had only been confined to the house for a few days and his death comes as a shock to his many friends.  He was prominent in masonic circles and a man who was always looking to the advancement of his home town. The funeral arrangements have not been completed as we go to press.

The funeral of R.A. Race, who died at midnight on Tuesday of last week, aged 52 years, was held from his late home on South Chenango street, on Friday afternoon at 3:45 o'clock, and was one of the largest attended obsequies held in Greene [Chenango Co., NY] in a long time, in which the deceased was held in a long time, which goes to show the high respect in which the deceased was held by his townsmen. The service at the house was conducted by Rev. Percy T. Olton of Zion Church. At the grave the beautiful Masonic burial service was delivered by Rev. Charles DuBois Broughton of Oxford, District Deputy Grand Master of the 28th Masonic district. About thirty Knight Templars from Malta commandery of Binghamton, of which Mr. Race was a member, were present and acted as an escort.  Many beautiful floral tributes were received which evidenced his high standing among his friends.  The bearers were H.F Whittenhall, Dr. C.N. Guy, Dr. E.S. Walker, Fayette Seeber, John Hanford and D.L. Hotchkiss.  Mr. Race is survived by a wife, three sons, Earl F., Leo and Clyde Race, and two daughters, Mrs. C.S. Juliand and Ruth Race, all of this village.

Diana C. (Canfield) Landers & Lola Landers

Afton Enterprise, March 26, 1886

Saturday afternoon as the express train which passes through Whitney's Point [Broome Co., NY] at 2 o'clock, was nearing the Pease crossing below the village, a horse drive by Mrs. Philo Landers, became frightened and ran into the engine just as it reached the crossing. The occupants of the carriage, Mrs. Landers and daughter, Lola [Landers], a little girl about ten years of age, were thrown against the side of the cars and carried along some yards.  Mrs. Landers was instantly killed and the girl lived a few moments. The bodies were taken to the house of Alonzo Pease and coroner S.P. Allen summoned.  Mrs. Landers lived in Hyde Settlement about five miles from the Point and has a husband and three sons living - Binghamton Republican.

Mary Smith

Afton Enterprise, October 9, 1885

Miss Mary Smith, died at her home in this village Tuesday evening of this week, aged 65 years.  Her funeral will be held form her late residence Thursday, and the remains will be interred in the Baptist Cemetery [Afton, Chenango Co., NY].

Afton Enterprise, October 16, 1885

Miss Mary Smith, whose death was announced in a previous issue of the Enterprise, filled a large place in the hearts of those who knew her best.  She joined the Baptist church in this place under the pastorate of Rev. Geo. Balcom, and for more than thirty years was loyal to the teachings of the bible, and true to her covenant vows. Faithful unto death she has gone to receive the crown of life.  Naturally timid and retired, her character might seem wanting in courage and firmness, but in the long and painful illness, when brought face to face with the last enemy, her patience, fortitude and Christian heroism, made her death a triumph. The peaceful ending of a beautiful life. She arranged all of her affairs and gave directions concerning the details of her burial as if it were a business, leaving directions that special thanks be rendered to all who had kindly ministered to her in her sufferings. To this the lonely surviving sister wishes to add her heartfelt thanks for sympathy and kindness in her great sorrow.

Emily Merrifield

Chenango Union, November 8, 1894

MERRFIELD:  In this village, Nov. 2, 1894, Emily [Merrifield], wife of Wm. Merrifield, age 60 years.

At 5:30A.am. Friday, Nov. 2, 1894, Mrs. Emily Merrifield entered into rest. She was born in Bristol, England July 4, 1834, and married William Merrifield Dec. 24, 1854.  They came to Franklin Delaware county, N.Y. in 1855 with an aged uncle and aunt who had a daughter in that place. After a short residence in Gilbertsville they moved to Norwich in 1856.  Her husband is the only surviving relative.  Funeral held from the home on Piano St. and burial in Mt. Hope [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY]

Death Notices

Chenango Union, November 8, 1894

TILYOU:  In Masonville, N.Y. [Delaware Co.] Oct. 21, 1894, Mr. John C. Tilyou, age 58 years, formerly of North Norwich.

THOMPSON:  Killed near Sidney [Delaware Co., NY] at the Railroad crossing Oct. 18, 1894, Mrs. S.A. Thompson, age 72.  She was the mother of Dr. R.A. Thompson of Norwich.

CHURCH:  Killed by the cars at Mason City, Iowa, Mr. Frank Church, formerly of Afton [Chenango Co., NY].

CADY:  At the county house in Eaton, Madison County, Oct. 12, 1894, Mrs. Elizabeth Cady, age 78, formerly of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY]