Obituaries (August 3)

Susan (Knowles) Stone Bartlett

Norwich Sun, June 20, 1911

Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY]:  The funeral of Susan Bartlett, wife of Seth Bartlett of Smyrna, was held at her late home on the Earlville Hill road Sunday.  Mrs. Bartlett was a woman slightly past middle age and her death occurred suddenly Thursday evening.  She was most highly esteemed by all who knew her and a large circle of friends extend to her husband and daughter, Gertrude, their sympathy in their bereavement.

Seth M. Bartlett

Chenango Telegraph, August 5, 1924

Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY]:  Seth M. Bartlett, one of the best known and most highly respected residents of this town, passed away at his home in this village on Saturday, Aug. 2, aged 77 years, after an illness covering a period of several months.  Mr. Bartlett was born in the town of Masonville, N.Y. [Delaware Co.] on July 18, 1847.  In the year 1878 he came to this town to live and has since that time been a resident here, living all the time within about one mile of the village and taking an active part in the affairs of the town, always found on the side of right and ready and anxious to stand for that which was for the betterment of the community both in social and church circles.  He was a member of the Congregational church and a trustee at the time of his death.  On November 29, 1876, he was united in marriage to Susan Knowles Stone, who passed away June 15, 1911.  Funeral services were held from his home on Tuesday afternoon at two o'clock, the Rev. C. V. Slocum officiating and interment made in the Willcox cemetery.  Besides one brother, E.C. Bartlett of Franklin N.Y. he is survived by a step-daughter Miss Gertrude Stone, who has faithfully and lovingly cared for him during his declining months and a host of friends who will cherish the memory of having been among his acquaintances.

Bert Dutcher

Norwich Sun, April 1, 1946

Funeral services for Bert Dutcher, 92, whose death occurred Friday night at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Clara Slater, Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY] were held Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Smith Funeral Home in DeRuyter.  Burial was made in the Cortland rural cemetery [Cortland Co., NY].  Mr. Dutcher was born in Union, the son of Milton and Mary (Gager) Dutcher.  Most of his life was passed in Chenango county where he was engaged in farming until several years ago when he retired.  Mrs. Dutcher died eight years ago.  Mr. Dutcher passed away after an illness of several months.  Two sons and three daughters survive. They are:  Maude Eaton of Cortland; Will Dutcher of Cortland; Clarence of Lincklaen, Clara Slater of Plymouth and Mary Marble of Cortland.

Death Notices

Chenango American, May 9, 1861

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult., Amanda [Mead], daughter of Richard Mead, aged 8 years and 6 months.

In Hornellsville [Steuben Co., NY] on the 28th ult., Mary B. [Gray] daughter of Elijah R. and Mary B. Gray, aged 4 years and 4 months.

In Jersey City, N.J. on the 6th inst., suddenly, of convulsions, Mary Hester Pell [Youlin], wife of Dr. J.J. Youlin, in the 20th year of her age.

In Columbus [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th ult., Mrs. Mary J. [Alcott], wife of Enos Alcott, aged 47 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., Isabel Ann [Wescott], daughter of James F. and Thankful M. Wescott, aged 10 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th isn't., Mrs. Lucretia Levee, aged 84 years.

In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult., John Finch, aged 15 years.

Different perspectives at outbreak of Civil War - 1861

Southern Perspective

Chenango American, May 2, 1861

The Atlanta (GA.) Confederacy of the 15th ult., is an article on "Our War Policy," says:

In less than thirty days from this time, if peace is not sooner declared, the seat of war will be changed from Charleston and Pensacola to Washington City and from thence northward and northwest.  Under letters of marque and reprisals, a thousand privateers will be fitted out, which will sweep the seas of Northern commerce.  There are over two millions of men in the North, engaged in commercial, agricultural and manufacturing pursuits, who are opposed to Lincoln's admission.  The conservative force will organize and arm for the purpose of overthrowing the Lincoln Government.  Thus a destructive civil war will be inaugurated in the North.  The Lincoln Government cannot long continue such a policy.

In three months from this time, Lincoln and his Government will have removed from Washington City to Boston; the fifteen slave States will be united under the Constitution of the Confederate States; the middle and Northwestern States will have formed a separate and distinct Government of their own, and Lincoln will be left alone in his glory, with the Capitol of his Government in the Yankee city of Boston, and the extent of his territory will be composed of the six States of Puritan New England.  We predict the utter disgrace, overthrow and annihilation of the whole batch of abolition conspirators who planned this "infamous revolution," and plunged a free, happy and once united people, in all the horrors of civil War.

Northern Perspective

Chenango American, May 2, 1861

The war feeling continues to grow in intensity, and the tangible proof given that the North is determined to sustain the Government, and bring back to their allegiance recusant traitors, is highly encouraging.  It is difficult to glean from the mass of communications which reach us, a correct synopsis of all which is transpiring, but we will endeavor to keep our readers posted up upon the general news:

Our advices from Washington are interesting and important.  The city is without doubt secure from any attack -- indeed we hear no more of any intention to attack it.  Notwithstanding these assurances, however, it is not the intention of the Government to desist from its preparations for any emergency which may be precipitated upon it by the Secessionists, but under the direction of the veteran Gen. Scott, everything is being put in the most complete order.  The number of troops now at the Capital cannot number less than 20,000, among which are the 7th and other New York regiments.  13,000 were there on Friday night, and Saturday 8,000 men were on the road from Annapolis. This condition of affairs is having a calming effect upon the Secessionists on each side, in Virginia and Maryland, which has exhibited itself in assurances from the former that no attack upon the Capital from her soil would be permitted.  This assurance comes both from Gen. Harper Commanding the Virginia forces at Harper's Ferry, and from Gov. Letcher himself.  Probably by the time a few more thousand troops arrive in Washington, it will be made to appear that no attack was ever intended.

Obituaries (August 1)

Deborah Ann (Lyon) Doolittle

August 25, 1828 - January 9, 1911

Mrs. Deborah Ann Doolittle died on Monday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Mary Morey, in Earlville [Madison Co., NY], aged 82 years.  Mrs. Doolittle, who for several years had been a resident of this village, went to Earlville last fall to spend the winter with her daughter, Mrs. Morey, and although in poor health, her condition was not considered serious.  Her death was the result of heart disease.  Mrs. Doolittle is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Mary Morey, Earlville, Mrs. Allen Grannis, Binghamton, and Mrs. George Lyon, Bainbridge, and two sons, Andrus and Arthur Doolittle, Bainbridge. The funeral was held in Earlville Wednesday, following which the body was taken to Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] for burial [Riverview Cemetery].

Jennie Smith

Died January 7, 1911

Mrs. Jennie Smith died at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Lyon at West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Saturday January 7, after a brief but severe illness.  Mrs. Smith was born in the town of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY] and was 59 years of age. She buried her husband, Lyman Smith, several years ago and after his death she remained on their farm at West Bainbridge. When her last illness came she was living alone, but was taken to the home of Mr. and Mrs. Lyon, relatives of her deceased husband, and tenderly cared for until death came. Deceased was for many years a faithful and consistent member of the West Bainbridge Baptist church and was deeply interested in his welfare.  Funeral services were held Monday at noon from the home which she passed away. There was a large attendance,  Rev. H.T. Hill officiated.  Interment was at the West Bainbridge cemetery.  [Note:  unmarked burial]

Amelia Butts Wetmore

1826 - 1911

Mrs. Amelia Butts Wetmore of South Main street, this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] died early Monday morning last, while in her 86th year, from heart disease, after an illness of over a year.  She was the widow of the late James K. Wetmore, president of the First National Bank of this village, and for a long time a prominent and influential citizen of this village, who died suddenly August 1, 1899, at the advanced aged of 80 years.  Mrs. Wetmore lived with her only daughter, Angelia W Winsor, and they were inseparable companions, the latter giving her mother the most affectionate attention and care, administering to her during the period of her illness and suffering in a manner which softened the shadows of death as they crept upon her.  The deceased was a most highly esteemed lady, and had been a prominent resident of Bainbridge since the year 1866, when she moved here with her husband, occupying ever since the home which Mr. Wetmore built that year on the lot situate on the corner of South Main and Scott streets. She was born January 11, 1926 at Kortright, Delaware county, and was one of nine children,  all of whom have died.  her parents were Harry and Sally Butts. She was married in 1847 and previous to coming to Bainbridge, resided at Davenport Center and Oneonta. She is survived by an only daughter, Mrs. Angelia W Winsor, whose husband, George l. Winsor,, Esq. died in 1878.  Others who survive are nieces, Mrs. A.J. Corbin, of New York city, Mrs. J.W. Kelsey and Miss Virginia Butts of Orange, N.J., Mrs. Wm. E. Hill of Oneonta, and nephews, Charles R. Briggs of Bainbridge, Geo. M. Butts of Bloomville, and E. J. Brownell of Delhi. The funeral services were held at the home Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, conducted by Rev. J.S. Crompton of Binghamton, who was a former pastor of the Methodist church of this village, of which the deceased was a member. The services were also assisted by Rev. L.L. Weller, rector of St. Peter's church, who sang a beautiful selection. The interment was in St. Peter's cemetery in the family lot.

Death Notices

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, December 15, 1900

BROOKS:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], December 11, 1900, Leroy J. Brooks, M.D., aged 50 years.

LYON:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], December 12, 1900, Mrs. Julia F. Lyon, aged 75 years.

BUELL:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], December 13, 1900, William K. Buell of King Settlement [Chenango Co., NY], aged 54 years.

DYE:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], December 7, 1900, John L. Dye, aged 77 years.

MOORE:  In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], December 7, 1900, Charles Moore.

BARBER:  Near DeRuyter [Madison Co., NY], December 10, 1900, Cora Belle [Barber], wife of Luther Barber, aged 29 years.

SMITHERS:  In West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], December 11, 1900, Mrs. William Smithers, aged 30 years.

McFARLAND:  In Bennettsville [Chenango Co., NY], December 8, 1900, Mrs. Eliza T. McFarland, aged 74 years.

DORMAN:  In Rome [Oneida Co., NY], December 6, 1900, Eva Dorman, aged 20 years, formerly of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

ALCOCK:  In Paris, France, December 2, 1900, Mrs. Florence Chapman Clark, aged 53 years, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

MATHEWS:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], December 6, 1900, Charles Mathews, aged 85 years.

CAMPBELL: In Bonney [Chenango Co., NY], December 11, 1900, Mrs. Ella Campbell, aged 48 years.

Obituaries (July 31)

Ebenezer Augustus Davis

1847-1924

Ebenezer A. Davis whose death came March 2nd at his home in the village of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], was a son of Abram and Mabel Davis, who moved from Saratoga County in 1844 and settled on a farm in the town of Oxford, Chenango county in the neighborhood of Searles Hill, where they spent the remainder of their life.  They raised a family of nine children, there being but three now living.  Ebenezer A. Davis was born April 3rd, 1847 in the town of Oxford Chenango county.  He remained home until the fall of 1868, he was then married to Ada Davis of Bainbridge.  From the following spring he spent his whole life a farmer within a radius of four miles of the village until three years ago he sold his farm and retired.  He was a kind and obliging friend and neighbor, always ready to lend a helping hand. A man of few words, a mind once decided was unchangeable.  Always knew where to find "Ebb."  He is survived by the widow, Mrs. Ada Davis, a son Fred Davis; three grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.  Three brothers, Mark Davis and Will Davis of Bainbridge and Frank B. Davis of Binghamton.  A nephew Harry Searles of Amsterdam, N.Y.  Harry was taken into the family when an infant and the same care and affection that could be given an own child was given him.  He remained with them until grown up.  He has always been claimed a member of the family by them, and also by the friends and relatives of the family.

Sheldon Hopkins

Oxford Times, August 22, 1913  

Sheldon Hopkins, 74 years old, died at the home of his cousin, Frederick Hopkins, in this town last night, death resulting from complications following surgical operations during the winter.  Mr. Hopkins was the son and the youngest of the family of Alison and Polly Dickinson Hopkins, and was born on the old homestead in the exact geographical center of this town.  He married Emma Fosbury of Bainbridge, who died a few years ago  For 25 or 30 years they lived in Coventry.  Late in the winter Mr. Hopkins went to St. Luke's hospital, Utica, where he underwent three operations,  all very severe, which he stood very well for a man of his years. After about six weeks he was brought to the home of Mr. Hopkins, where he remained until his death.  He was educated at Oxford Academy and was deeply interested in agriculture. A man of quiet, home keeping tastes, he nevertheless won many friends by his pleasant friendly spirit and his faithfulness to daily duty.  He was a communicant of St. Paul's Church in this village and when possible was frequently at its services.  He had been prominent in Grange matters and was quite well known by members of that organization.  His nearest living relative is John H. Gifford, a nephew, of this village. The funeral will be held at the residence of Frederick Hopkins on Monday at 11 o'clock, Rev. Theodore Haydn officiating. Burial will be at West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

Dennis Ballou

Chenango Union, October 31, 1872

BALLOU:  In Plymouth, Chenango Co., N.Y., October 20th, 1872, Dennis Ballou, Esq., aged 73 years.

He was born in Richmond, Cheshire Co., N.H., December 6th, 1796, and removed with his parents, when a boy, to Cortland County, N.Y., passing along what is now called the turnpike from Smyrna to Otselic, when it was all a wilderness, with the exception of a very few clearings and log dwellings.  Left fatherless while young, and among strangers, his nobility of character and firmness for the right made him many friends.  He began business for himself by teaching in the public schools, removed to Plymouth about 1824, engaging in the shoe and leather business; was soon elected to a town office, and for a long term of years served the people in some capacity as town officer. Early in life he united with the Baptist Chruch, and lived a faithful member. Although his last illness was long and severe, no work of complaint or murmuring fell from his lips.  He has gone to rest. A family have lost a kind father; the church a faithful worker; society an honored member; the party of freedom and equal rights for all, a firm supporter.

Obituaries (July 30)

Ira Blanchard

Binghamton Press, December 24, 1912

Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]:  Ira Blanchard, a well-known resident of this town, died Friday afternoon in a private hospital in Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], where he had been receiving treatment for the past month for a cancer. The body was brought to Bainbridge Saturday and the funeral was held Monday afternoon at the West Bainbridge Baptist Church, the Rev. Frank James, pastor of the Frist Methodist Church of this village, officiating. Burial was in the Union Valley Cemetery [West Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].  Mr. Blanchard was 68 years of age and is survived by his wife.  He was born in West Bainbridge and had spent his entire life in the town.

Eli R. Lyon

Binghamton Press, December 24, 1912

Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]:  The funeral of Eli R. Lyon, who died at his home on South Main street Thursday evening was held at the house Sunday afternoon, Rev. Frank James officiating. The body was taken to Union Valley for burial [West Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].  Mr. Lyon, who was 88 years of age, lived in Bainbridge for 78 years, coming here with his parents, Israel and Betsey Lyon from Bloomville in 1834, about 62 years ago.  Mr. Lyon married Hannah Green, daughter of Thruston and Rachel Green of West Bainbridge who now survives him.  Mr. Lyon was one of Bainbridge's most respected citizens and for years a very active member of Susquehanna Lodge F.&A.M.

Naomi Wheeler

Oxford Times, March 18, 1874

WHEELER:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], at the residence of her son, Philip Wheeler, March 9th, Mrs. Naomi Wheeler, widow of the late Henry Wheeler, aged 90 years.

Mrs. Wheeler was born in Foster, Rhode Island.  In July, 1812, came with her husband and six children, and settled upon the place where she died. She was the mother of thirteen children--all but one attained the age of maturity, was a faithful wife, a good mother, and a kind neighbor. For many years her husband kept a public house on the new Catskill turnpike, and her name will be remembered by those who called there for entertainment.  Like all wives of pioneers, she nobly endured great hardships and privations in those days when the now pleasant village of Guilford was a collection of ponds, swamps and bustling with tall hemlocks; when the paths to it was by marked trees, and a village undreamed of by any one.  She lived to see the great wilderness changed into fertile farms, the isolated log houses into comfortable homes, and to hear the rushing tramp of the iron horse where wild animals used to roam unmolested.  Finally, having survived her husband eighteen years, and attained a venerable age, strength failed, and she saw herself slowly but surely going to rest.  Her mind remained unclouded to the last, and she died leaving to her children the assurance that to her, death was but the entrance to better and brighter regions beyond the river. Children, grandhcildren, and great-grandchildren, gather to pay their last tribute of love, and her own pastor, Rev. Lyman Yale, officiated at the funeral services.

Lyman Bush

Died Dec. 1, 1886

Lyman Bush was born in Guilford, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], and died in the town of Oxford, N.Y. [Chenango Co.] Dec. 1, 1886.  Shortly after the death of his second wife he went to live with Alvin Hollenbeck, with whom he had a home until he died.  Here he had the best of care and a good home.  He was converted when quite young, and for more than fifty years was a faithful consistent Christian and member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.  He was one of the first members of the Methodist Episcopal Society at Union Valley.  During an illness of several years he was patient and uncomplaining.  He cheerfully anticipated the end of his sufferings and looked forward to the rest that remains for the people of God. Two children survive him.  H.B.C.

Samantha (Green) Bush

March 7, 1803 - March 17, 1888

BUSH:  Samantha Green, relict of the late Ozias Bush and daughter of Benjamin Green, was born in Guilford, Chenango Co., N.Y., March 7, 1803, and died in the same town March 17, 1888, aged 85 years and 16 days. She was joined in marriage with Ozias Bush April 18, 1832, by Rev. William Bowdish of precious memory.  Sister Bush was converted at the age of twenty-four, and was until the day of her death an earnest Christian, and was faithful in the support of the church. It was largely through her influence that a few years after their marriage her husband was converted and became, through the remainder of his long life, her helper in every good work. April 18, 1882, they celebrated their golden wedding. She has been a widow since three years ago last August, yet she has been sustained by divine grace and was enabled to say "The Lord gave and the lord hath taken away, blessed be the name of the Lord."  Sister Bush was one of a family of seven, three brothers and four sisters, of whom only one, Mrs. George Ives, survives. She left no children, though an adopted son, E. Bromley, and his wife, were greatly endeared to her by their tender affection and loving ministrations.  Though more than eighty-five years of age, her mind was unclouded until within a few hours of her death. Though in feeble health for many years, she still retained her interest in Christian work until the very last.  None knew her but to love her, while her smile and affectionate greeting cheered the heart of many a pastor and his wife. She was especially pleased to received a few weeks previous to her death, a certificate of life membership from the auxiliary of the Woman's Foreign Missionary Society, of which she was an interested member. Her sufferings for forty-eight hours preceding her death were very severe, yet no word of complaint fell from her lips. The promises of God breathed into her ear by loving friends about her comforted her heart and her end was peace.  "Blessed are the dead which died in the Lord.;"   L. Jennison

Death Notices

Chenango American, May 2, 1861

In Cortland Village [Cortland Co., NY], on the 16th ult. Mary [Reynolds], wife of Hon. Joseph Reynolds, aged 71 years.  Deceased was formerly a resident of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th ult., Chloe [Winsor], wife of Joshua Winsor, aged 76 years. 

In South Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th ult. of consumption, Mr. Woodbridge G. Baker, aged 43 years.

In Elmira [Chemung Co., NY], after a short illness, Mr. Samuel Boss, aged 76 years, formerly of Oxford.

Oxford Times, May 2, 1877

SKINNER:  At Stiles, Onondaga co., April 18, at the residence of her mother, Mrs. Mary Wormouth, Lenora [Skinner], wife of Geo. W. Skinner of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]

RIPLEY:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], April 25th, Lieut. Wm. H. Ripley, aged 36 years.

PECK:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on April 24th, Mr. Horace Peck, aged 72 years.

SMITH:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], April 20th, Mr. Ambrose W. Smith, aged 67 years.

PENDLETON:  In Cuba, Allegany Co., April 12th, Mr. Nathan Pendleton, aged 52 years, son of Wm. Pendleton of Norwich.

BOOTH:  In West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], April 20th, Mr. Aaron Booth, aged 80 years.

Obituaries (July 29)

James Tripp

Chenango American, March 7, 1861

We regret to announce the death of Mr. James Tripp, the engineer, who was scalded by the late accident on the N.Y. & Erie R.R. near this place last week.  Mr. Tripp was supposed to be recovering rapidly; during the past few days and until yesterday (the 26th) was not considered to be in much danger, and today (the 27th) died at about half past 11 A.M.  Mr. Tripp was an engineer of much ability and had been in the employ of this road about 9 years, during which time he had narrowly escaped with his life by a collision of trains.  He has a family at Owego, a daughter has been with him at the Lewis House up to the time of his death.  Binghamton Democrat.

Lena (Phetteplace) Dain

Died February 7, 1932

Mrs. Lena Dain, 72, of 13 Chenango avenue, died at the Chenango Memorial Hospital [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] at noon Sunday, February 7, after a very short illness.  Mrs. Dain's unexpected death brings to a close a life of unusual kindliness toward all humankind, and removed from this community one of the sweetest and most loveable characters.  Mrs. Dain was a wise and fond mother, a devoted Christian and a neighbor whose acts of gentle kindness and generosity will be remembered as long as one remains who has known her ministrations.  Born in the town of Norwich, deceased had spent her entire life in the town and city of her birth.  She was the daughter of David and Mandana Harris Phetteplace. Surviving are one daughter, Mrs. Benjamin F. Arnold of Smyrna, and two sons, David C. Dain of Masonville and George P. Dain of New Berlin; one sister, Miss Ella M. Phetteplace of Norwich, who resided with the deceased; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild. The funeral will be held from the funeral home of Lawrence & Devine on South Broad street Wednesday afternoon at 1 o'clock, Rev. N.S. McPherson officiating. Burial will be in Evergreen cemetery at White Store [Chenango Co., NY].

David C. Dain

Died September 1, 1945

David C. Dain of Masonville [Delaware Co., NY], died in the Sidney hospital September 1, after a short illness.  He was born in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] December 9, 1883, son of the late Ira and Lena Phetteplace Dain.  He lived most of his life in Sidney and Masonville and was superintendent of the Masonville highways.  He married Minnie Cheney December 1, 1901.  He is survived by his widow; one daughter, Mrs. Austin Willis of Sherburne; a son, Charles E. Dain, of Berlin; a sister, Bessie Arnold, of Norwich; a brother, George Dain, of Norwich, and several grandchildren.  Funeral services will be held at the Masonville Baptist church at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 5.  Burial at White Store cemetery [Chenango Co., NY].

Linda Louise Dain

Utica Daily Press, October 16, 1945

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  After a month's illness the death of Linda Louise Dain, two-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Dain South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], occurred in Chenango Memorial Hospital here Oct. 10, 1945.  Born in South New Berlin, July 13, 1943, the infant is survived by her parents, two sisters, Betty and Wanda and a brother, Lewis.  Funeral services were held from the Breese Funeral home here Friday morning. Burial was made in the White Store Cemetery [Chenango Co., NY].  The Rev. Glen E. Wilson, pastor of the Calvary Baptist Church, officiated.

Eugene Doolittle

Otsego Journal, February 1, 1917

No similar event could come with more startling suddenness than did the death of Eugene Doolittle, which occurred shortly before midnight of Monday night last.  Mr. Doolittle retired to rest as usual, but awoke at the time mentioned, suffering severe pain in the region of his heart.  He succeeded in getting up and seating himself in a chair in the kitchen but almost immediately expired.  Mrs. Doolittle was alone with him at the time and her own state of health made the circumstances of the case just so much more sad and regrettable. The difficulty she experienced in securing assistance at that time of night by telephone, was considerable and necessarily some time elapsed before help arrived.  Dr. Helmer was summoned, but of course, could render no professional aid. We understand that deceased had suffered previously from cardiac trouble but believe he had been usually well up to the time of the fatal seizure.  Mr. Doolittle was one of the good citizens of the valley, he was a quiet and unassuming man by nature.  As a neighbor all that the word implies, and in his family unexceptional as husband and father.  He is survived by his wife and one son, William, of Auburn.  One son, Nelson, died  a few years ago at the family home. He also leaves one brother, Lewis, who resides East. The funeral wil be held from the house on Thursday at 1:30 p.m.

Death Notices

Chenango American, March 14, 1861

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., Mr. John Sirn, aged 65 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 7th inst., Charles A. [Winchester], son of George and Elizabeth Winchester, aged 7 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]:  on the 6th inst., Jesse E. [Gibson], youngest son of Joseph and Hannah Gibson, aged 6 years.

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., Alvira [Hill], daughter of Erastus and Harriet hill, aged 1 year.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th ult., Mr. John Bulkley, aged 90 years.

War! War! War! --April 1861

War!  War!  War!

Chenango American, April 18, 1861

CIVIL WAR! with all its nameless horrors, is full upon us!  The Stars and Stripes have been stricken down by members of our own household.  The "flag of the free heart's hope" trails in the dust. Secession is rampant; foul and causeless rebellion struts proudly on Southern soil. A lone and beleaguered American fortress has been compelled to strike her color's to an overwhelming band of traitors.

One question must now be answered--Have we a Government?  Is this Republic to be saved or is it forever lost?  Shall these bonds, cemented by the blood of our forefathers, be torn asunder by ruthless and bloody hands, or shall they be preserved, even at the price of the blood of their children?  Time only can lift the veil from the dark future.

From the pine clad shores of Maine to where the echoing axe of the settler swings, the sharp roll of the drum is heard, summoning to arms the brave, the resolute, and the patriotic. Even now the steady tramp of the citizen soldier may be heard in nearly every section of this country where treason is not held to be a virtue. The problem is about to be solved. The stain upon our National shield will be wiped out, or that shield, which has been the light and the hope of struggling Freedom in the Old World, and a sure safeguard to all who enjoyed its protection, must inevitably be broken into fragments--The dreadful alternative is thrust upon us, and mournful though it be, it must be accepted. It is now no time to ask why this state of things exists.  It is not for us to waste our energies in denouncing those who may have erred in policy; nor in lamenting over the follies of this or that political party--it is sufficient for us to know that rebels are banded together to overthrow our Republican form of Government--a Government under which we have lived so happily, and which was purchased at such a fearful price.  Let no lover of his country fail her in this crisis!

All efforts at conciliation have failed.  Forbearance has been exercised until patience was well nigh exhausted, and just as our degraded position was beginning to be keenly felt as too grievous to be borne, there comes to our ears the booming of rebel cannon, rousing every spark of patriotism, and firing with zeal every true and loyal lover of his country.  Party lines are rendered obsolete, and party issues are forgotten. The only question now is who are the friends of their country, and who are its foes!

Obituaries (July 28)

Maria (Sherman) Musson

Otsego Journal, May 19, 1910

Mrs. Maria Musson died Wednesday May 4, at 3:20 p.m. at the home of Dr. J.S. Boyers, in Decatur, Ind., where she had been spending the winter with her daughter, Mrs. Boyers.  The funeral was held Friday afternoon at 2:30 from her late residence, No. 312 West Columbia avenue.  Maria Sherman was born July 29, 1821, in the town of Langdon, Cheshire county, New Hampshire, being the youngest of nine children of Elijah and Sally Bachelor Sherman.  When ten years old her parents moved to Lewis, Essex county, New York, where she grew to womanhood.  In 1850 she moved to Manitowoc, Wis., where she was married to Richard B. Musson, in 1852, coming to the town of Champaign in 1857, where she has since made her home. There survive her all her children and her step-son, Willard Musson, of Elk City, Kan.  Her children are Lewis F., of Spokane, Wash.; Richard F., of Champaign; Bertha M. Luckey, of Lincoln, Neb.; Eva E. Boyers of Decatur, Ind.; Josie Hitt Townley of Champaign, and Fred I., of Rantoul -Champaign, Ill, Daily Gazette

Zida M. (Barse) Bidwell

Otsego Farmer, June 21, 1895

BIDWELL:  In Butternuts, N.Y. [Otsego Co.], June 9, 1895. Mrs. Charles Bidwell, aged 29 years. 

Gilbertsville, [Otsego Co., NY]:  Zida, wife of Charles Bidwell and daughter of Alonzo Barse, died June 9th, after an illness of five days, aged 29 years.  Four little children and a most devoted husband are left to mourn her early death.

The Otsego Journal, June 20, 1895

The death of Mrs. Charles Bidwell which occurred Sunday night is peculiarly sad.  She was the daughter of Alonzo Barse, and was only twenty-nine years of age.  Se had been ill but five days, and, as we understand it, her physicians are not quite decided as to the cause of death. She leaves a devoted husband and four small children to mourn her loss. Their condition is such as to excite the warmest sympathy of all. The funeral was held on Tuesday from the house on the Gibson farm, with interment at White Store Cemetery [Chenango Co., NY]

John Blackman

Otsego Journal, January 6, 1892

John Blackman departed this life on Saturday, December 31, 1891, at the good old age of 84 years, 3 months and 1 day, ready, resigned, and surrounded by friends.  He was born in the town of Columbus N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY] April 4, 1807.  In early life he married Helen J. Place, of Mt. Upton.  To them were born several children, all of whom Mr. Blackman outlived.  Mrs. Blackman died seventeen years ago. After this, Mr. Blackman came to live in Sherburne, and for the remainder of his life made his home with Mrs. W.H. Walker, who made his declining years comfortable by providing for his every need.  He came to Sherburne from Gilbertsville, N.Y. where for many years he followed the occupation of an undertaker, at which he earned enough to make his old age happy and independent.  When about twenty-four years of age he was converted from sin to Christ, and at once united with the Methodist Episcopal Chruch to which he was loyal and faithful for sixty years. Being a man of deep religious conviction, clear mind and executive ability, for many years he sustained official relations to the Chruch at Mt. Upton and Gilbertsville.  He was well known throughout the town and vicinity, and esteemed as one who carefully endeavored to live according to the principles of truth and righteousness.  He retained a lively interest in the affairs of the Chruch and the world to the last--his mental faculties being wonderfully retained through old age and his last sickness. During a long life he served his day and generation and was helpful spiritually and financially to the church he loved; always in his place at the means of grace till infirmity kept him at home.  He loved the house and the hour of prayer and was a constant attendant.  he possessed a reliant and beautiful faith.  With clear vision, in public prayer his mind swept out and up to God, the Father, grasping the promises. The memory of his voice in prayer will be an inspiration and help to many, remaining with them until, like him, they reach the end of earth's wonderful but providential pilgrimage.  As a Christian Mr. Blackman was unassuming, reverent, devout, intelligent, charitable, and practical. A man of reliable character, one of the salt of the earth.

The funeral service was held at the Methodist church, on Wednesday, December 9, where a large and representative audience assembled to pay respects to his memory and mortal remains.  A large number of surviving relatives in attendance, looked worthy representatives of a worthy ancestor.  His funeral was in charge of his pastor, Rev. J.C. Hogan, who spoke briefly of the deceased, after which Rev. O.H. McAnuity, of Oneonta, a former pastor, preached an appropriate sermon from the words of the Psalmist.  "What is man that Thou art mindful of him?"  etc.  Rev. H. Fox, of Norwich, a former pastor of the Sherburne church, also assisted in the service. The interment took palce at White Store, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], Rev. C. H. Sackett, of Mt. Upton officiating.  In death our brother was gentle, resigned and hopeful.  His departure was peaceful.  Thus, one by one, the fathers fall asleep, and are "gathered unto their people." None realized more than h , that

"We live in deeds--not years; in thoughts, not breaths;

In feelings, not in figures on a dial.

We should count time by heart throbs. He most lives,

Who thinks most, feels the noblest, acts the best."

"Say ye to the righteous, that it shall be well with him."  Isa. 5:10

George Bowen

Chenango Union, December 28, 1893

We are pained to learn of the alarming illness of George Bowen, one of our most respected citizens.  His wife also lies in a very critical state, and does not know of the dangerous state of her husband.  DeCalvus Bowen, and wife, of Norwich, are with them. They have the deep sympathy of the entire community.

Chenango Union, January 4, 1894

BOWEN:  In Mt. Upton [Chenango County, NY], December 29, 1893, Mr. George Bowen.

After days of intense suffering, which were borne with perfect patience, a must respected citizen, George Bowen, entered into rest December 29.  He often said during his last hours, "I'm all ready, only waiting."  It seemed a singular coincidence that the same day he was laid to rest, the 31st, Mrs. David Westcott, of Norwich, a friend and associate of childhood and youth, was consigned to the "narrow house."  There will be many glad recognitions on the other shore.