Letter from Dr. H.H. Beecher - Civil War Surgeon - October 1862

Extract from a Letter  From Surgeon Beecher

Death of Dr. C.C. Willard

Chenango American, October 9, 1862

Dr. H.H. Beecher, Assistant Surgeon of the 114th Regiment, writes an interesting letter to the Chenango Union in alluding to his passage through Greene [Chenango Co., NY] upon his way to join his Regiment, he used the following remarks in regard to the death of Dr. C.C. Willard:

"I cannot refrain from alluding to a scene or event I witnessed in this place, the like of which I hope I may never see again.  While Dr. Augustus Willard and myself were examining a recruit at the Chenango House, a messenger came rushing up the stairs with the intelligence that his son, Dr. C.C. Willard, was worse, and they were afraid he was dying. We hurried to his dwelling--sad to relate, only in time to see him die.  he was cold and pulseless--a struggle or two, and all was over.

"The Doctor had been complaining for a number of weeks, but up to and on the day of his death, he attended to his business, having rode a distance of several miles.  He left his office for his residence as late as six o'clock and some time after this requested his father--which must have been about the last words he spoke--to visit his patients for the night, as he did not feel able to do so himself.  from the suddenness and manner of his decease, I suspect there was some lurking organic disease.

"Dr. Willard was one of the rising members of the profession, and possessed domestic and social qualities which greatly endeared him to his family and a large circle of friends.  How suddenly, in the fullness of manhood and in the pride of his strength, he has been stricken down!

"It is not necessary to go to the field of battle, and face the cannon's mouth, or be exposed to shot and shell, to learn of the frailty of man, or witness the sudden and eternal separation, by death of the loved and cherished ones of earth.  No position or situation in life, at home or abroad, can afford an immunity or shield us from the attack of this destroyer.  How strong soever and confident we may be today, om the morrow of us it may be said that we too are gone.

"But I have not the heart to write the moral of this sad event--indeed, it teaches its own lesson--nor is this the time and place to eulogize the dead.  The records of the Society of which he was an honored member and an efficient officer, and the grateful remembrance of the community in which he lived, and which loved him so well, will, I desist not, do ample justice to his memory and his worth."

Letter from NY 114th Infantry - September 1862

Letter from the 114th Regiment

Chenango American, October 9, 1862

Headquarters 114th Reg., N.Y.S.V.
Camp Belger, Sept. 28, 1862

Eds Chenango American:  Pursuant to agreement I now send you a few lines.  It is easy to promise to write but very hard while in camp to fulfill.  We are busy from morning to night.  at 5:30 A.M., the reveille; at 6:12 A.M., breakfast; surgeons call 7:30 A.M.; guard mounting, 8:12 A.M.; forenoon drill from 9:12 to 11 A.M.; dinner, 12 M.; drill again from 1:12 to 3 P.M.; dress parade, 4:12 P.M.; retreat, 6 P.M.; tattoo, 8 P.M.; taper, (extinguishing lights) 9 P.M.  Thus you see we are kept busy.

You have seen photographs of Camp Belger.  It is a beautiful place--Baltimore and the bay are in full view from the camp.  The city cars run to within thirty rods of the camp.  the camp is laid out with as much regard to angles, as the "city of Brotherly love," and is kept as scrupulously clean.  There are many fine old oaks on the ground that furnish a most desirable shade.  I have a tree close to my tent on the right and one directly in front. The latter is called the Post Office. The camp at night presents a picturesque appearance.

There is not a better camp in the State.  Our Regiment is in high repute here--it is said by good military men that it is the finest looking Regiment in the service.

I have slept upon the floor ever since I have been here--it comes rather hard, especially for the lean kind of men.  Our bread, pork and coffee is good, but the beef is tough.  The corned beef, by the boys, is called "salt horse."  We have potatoes once a day, beans twice a week, and rice and hominy occasionally.  I have never had better bread.  No one that is well need go hungry.

The 116th New York is just back of us in camp--just across one lot.  It does not compare at all with ours.  Friday night last a man tried to run the guard, and for his temerity had a bayonet run through him, killing him instantly. The guardsman was yesterday promoted.  Lieut. Dannfly[?] of Co. E, is the officer of the guard today and about 4 P.M. although Sunday, a man of Co. K talked back and made some threats, upon which the lieutenant knocked him down and ordered a Corporal to bind him and put him in the guard house.

J.C.S. of Greene, makes a bully Corporal--a few nights ago he was Corporal of the guard when a Lieutenant of the Regiment being a little excited from frequent libations of Baltimore whiskey put on airs. The little Corporal promptly unarmed him....

A few days since I was introduced to Sergt. Riley of the 8th -?- Cavalry.  He had just returned from the great battle near Harper's Ferry, wounded in the knee slightly.  He goes by the name of the "infant."  He is 6 feet 6 inches, not at all inclined to fat, and weights 230--four of Uncle Sam's horses have yielded to his weight and have gone the way of all horses.  Last Wednesday he was standing upon the docks witnessing the embarkation of some rebel prisoners for Fort Delaware, when a Baltimorian crowded up and cheered them. The crowd cried, "put him in the river."  Man turned to flee, but the "infant" caught him and with one swing threw him ten feet from the dock into the drink, and then offered to lick the man that attempted to help him out.  No one tried it and the disciple of Jeff Davis, departed this life in tears. Baltimore is full of traitors--fear is all that keeps the city quiet. A few days since I was at the Relay House, and while there about 300 rebel prisoners were brought in from the battle fields.

I have read the newspaper accounts and have thought them highly colored, but I am forced to admit that they look full as badly as any representations I have seen.  Not a man had a full uniform, some were barefooted, some stocking footed, some had nothing but drawers.  They were dirty, ragged and lousy--such a Godforsaken looking set of men you never set eyes upon.

We don't know as much here of the movements of the army as you do at Greene.

When we shall move from here no one knows--probably not soon.  Our Regiment may all be required for guard at different places.  Last Wednesday eleven men were taken from each company to guard a hospital in the city. The next day all of Co. I, were taken about 8 miles from the city to guard a bridge. Today the 1st Lieut of Co. H has been ordered to take 50 men several miles off to another hospital.  Co F has been ordered to Prince, George county, md., to assist the enrolling officer in the draft. Thus you see Gen. Wool is day by day detailing us for guard duty in different places. When we shall be called together again as a Regiment, no one can tell.

There are many things whereof I might write pertaining to the Regiment and matters and things about here, but I have not the time. Quite a number of Chenango men have visited us, and among others E.G. Kinney and L.R. Hitchcock, of Greene.  Hitchcock had quite a notion to stay.  Hoping to hear from you soon, I remain.

Very truly yours,   Steel Pen

Obituaries (December 13)

Paul PerLee

Died April 20, 1930, North Norwich, NY

Former Supervisor Paul PerLee of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] died at his home in that place Sunday afternoon at 3:15, aged about 70 years.  His death followed an illness of three months.  Mr. PerLee served his town as supervisor for nine years and made a splendid town official.  He was serving his town as assessor at the time of his demise, having been elected last November.  The deceased is survived by his wife and a brother, Henry PerLee of North Norwich.  Private funeral services will be held from the late home Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, with burial in the North Norwich cemetery.  Friends are asked to omit flowers.

William H. Perry

Died January 17, 1938, Sidney, NY

Sidney [Delaware Co., NY]:  Masonic rites will be held Wednesday night for William H. Perry, 65, former Sidney mayor, who died Monday shortly, after shoveling the snow off his sidewalk.  The Masonic services will be at the home where the members of the Sidney Lodge will march in a body at 7 o'clock. The funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the home with Rev. William E. Elwood officiating.  Burial will be in Prospect hills cemetery [Sidney, NY].  Mr. Perry, an expressman, served three terms as mayor of this village, being succeeded by Mayor William W. Bates on April 1, 1937.  He had served as master of the Sidney Masonic lodge three times and was past high priest of the Unadilla Chapter of Royal Arch Masons.  In 1929 he was district deputy grand master of Masons. 

Mr. Perry was twice married, first to Miss Kitty Hibbard of Cooperstown.  Later he was married to Miss Ella Stoller of Johnstown, who survives him.  Other survivors are his mother, Mrs. Mary Perry of Cooperstown, a sister, Mrs. Lynn Collins of Oneonta, a niece, Mrs. Doris Squires of Schenectady, an aunt, Mrs. Emma Richard of Cooperstown and an uncle, John Pickens of Middlefield,   Howard Murdock of Hartwick and Claude Richard of Cooperstown are cousins. 

Floyd R. Phetteplace

Died February 19, 1940, Norwich, NY

Floyd R. Phetteplace, 55, died at 1 Turner street about 5:10 Monday afternoon after a long illness.  Mr. Phetteplace was born in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], March 22, 1889.  He was a veteran of the World War.  There survive his wife, and father, Orson Phetteplace of Manlius; two sisters, Mrs. Lawrence Cleveland of Norwich and Mrs. Clinton Button of Sherburne, also several nephews and nieces.  Private funeral services are to be held at the Breese Funeral home at 2 o'clock Thursday afternoon, with Dr. G. Edgar Wolfe officiating.  Friends are asked to omit flowers. Burial will be in Mt. Hope cemetery [Norwich, NY].

Floyd R. Phetteplace, who died at 1 Turner street Monday afternoon, is survived by his mother, Mrs. Lizzie Phetteplace of South Broad street [Norwich, NY], as well as the survivors mentioned in Tuesday night's obituary.  

Jennie B. Hawley

Died May 7, 1924, Norwich, NY

Mrs. Burt Hawley died at her home on the South New Berlin road Wednesday morning, following a long illness.  She leaves to mourn her loss a husband and three children, Raymond, Clara and Ralph, of Norwich and one granddaughter, Virginia Hawley; also four sisters and one brother and several nephews and nieces.  Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock from her late home, the Rev. Palmer officiating and burial was made in Mt. Hope [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].  The floral tributes were large and beautiful.

Garry Kimball Phetteplace

Died December 14, 1939, North Norwich, NY

Following a lengthy period of ill health, the death of Garry Kimball Phetteplace occurred early Thursday night at his home in King Settlement [Chenango Co., NY].  A World War veteran, Mr. Phetteplace was born September 5, 1897.  He was a successful farmer and his passing is a loss to his community and brings sorrow to many friends.  he was a member of Norwich Post 189 of the American Legion.  Besides his wife, Bessie Follett Phetteplace, two children survive, Edward and Marion Phetteplace.  Other immediate survivors are his mother, Mrs. Lizzie Phetteplace of Norwich and his father, Orson Phetteplace, who resides in Manlius; also a brother, Floyd, of Norwich and two sisters, Mrs. Clara Cleveland of Norwich and Mrs. Bertha Button of Sherburne.  Funeral services will be held Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Breese Funeral Home. Rev. George B. Callender, pastor of the Broad Street Methodist church will officiate. burial will be made in Mt. Hope cemetery [Norwich, NY].

Jesse D. Phetteplace

Died August 24, 1940, Norwich, NY

Jesse D. Phetteplace died Saturday at 11 a.m., at his farm home in the town of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], after a short illness.  He was born in the same house in which he died October 22, 1863, and had been a lifelong resident in that part of Norwich.  He is survived by his wife, Mary A Hotaling Phetteplace; a son, Paul of this village; a daughter, Mrs. Edrena Magee of Washington, D.C.; four grandchildren; a brother, Dennis, of Cincinnatus; two sisters, Mrs. Sarah Edmonds and Mrs. Ceruah Grant, both of Norwich, and several nieces and nephews.  The funeral was largely attended from the late home on Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. C.H. Skinner officiating, with burial in the cemetery at White Store [Chenango Co., NY].  The bearers were Rufus Wells, Frank Jones, Melvin Curnalia, Clayton Sisson and Merton Winsor.

Marriages (December 12)

Phelps - Brookins

Chenango Telegraph, August 4, 1942

At a quiet wedding in Emmanuel Episcopal church [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Miss Gertrude A Brookins of 8 Northrup avenue, daughter of Nelson H. Brookins of South Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], was united in marriage with Lieutenant Theodore B. Phelps, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles L. Phelps of 10 Maple street, Rev. Lloyd S. Charters, rector of Emmanuel church, performed the ceremony.  The attendants were Miss Helen M. Wilcox of 8 Northrup avenue and Lewis W. Phelps of 6 Terrace street, brother of the bridegroom.  Immediately after the ceremony, the couple left for a wedding trip to Bridgeport, Conn. After returning to Norwich for a few days, they will go to Jackson, Tenn., where lieutenant Phelps is stationed with the quartermaster corps of the U.S. army.

Lowe - Clark

Chenango Telegraph, August 4, 1942

The marriage of Miss Mary C. Clark, granddaughter of Mrs. Miller of Hayes street, to Vincent Lowe of Brooklyn, occurred Saturday, July 25, at 2 p.m. at St. Peter's Rectory Washington, D.C.  The U.S.N. chaplain officiated at the ceremony.  Attending were Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Brooks of Washington D.C.  Mr. and Mrs. Lowe are at present residing at 3315, 12th street, S.E. Washington, D.C.

Haynes - Peeler

Married June 30, 1938, Norwich, NY

At St. Paul's rectory [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], at 8:45 Thursday morning occurred the marriage of Miss Elizabeth M. Peeler, daughter of Mrs. Earl Peeler, of Cleveland, O., and Levi G. Haynes, son of Mr. and Mrs. Will Haynes. The ceremony was performed by Rev. Charles M. Conseney. Attending the couple were the bride's sister, Miss Ruth Peeler and Warren Dayton, of Delhi, N.Y.  Following the ceremony the bridal party enjoyed a wedding breakfast at Mrs. G.W Elliott's tea room.  Mr. and Mrs. Haynes left for a trip through the New England States and White Mountains. They will be at home upon their return at 77 Sheldon street, Norwich.

Mr. & Mrs. Albert J. Payne, 50th Anniversary

South New Berlin Bee, June 14, 1940

The Editor of the South New Berlin Bee and wife celebrated their golden wedding on Tuesday, June 11.  They were assisted in doing so by their friends who planned and carried out a very successful party at the Methodist Church, of which Mr. and Mrs. Payne had been members for nearly forty years.  It was an informal affair, no invitations were issued and everyone was free to come, and did they come.  Every available seat in the little church being occupied and all seemed in a happy frame of mind.  The church was very prettily decorated with flowers by a committee selected for the occasion and they did their job well.  When the friends had nearly all arrived and were seated, at about eight o'clock the "bride and groom" made their appearance.  They were ushered to seats inside the altar rail at the front of the church They were assisted in receiving by Rev. and Mrs. Clinton Skinner.  Rev. Skinner made some interesting and timely remarks, followed by the groom who then commanded the bride to say a few words.  One of the happy features of the occasion was the presentation of a golden colored box, which upon opening was found to contain about $40.  Other gifts was a box of beautiful gladiolas and some beautiful roses.  Punch and cookies were served.  Thus ended one of the brightest happenings in the lives of your humble servants, Mr. and Mrs. A.J. Payne.   Mrs. F.L. Matterosn, our neighbor across the road, composed some poetry which she read and which is being published in connection with this article:

Our Printer Thru the Window

The proud little printer stands in front of the mirror.

He brushes his hair, and cocks up one ear.

Then starting for home, he puts the key in the door,

Turns around, goes back, and looks once more;

Our worthy little printer comes striding down the street.

The dear little fellow always looks just so neat.

With a double quick step, he gets to his duty,

And as I see him thru the window,

He certainly is a beauty.

He works away diligently from morn till night

To make our "South New Berlin Bee turn out just right.

There is one thing certain that can be seen very plain.

That there's quite a lot of credit coming to Editor Payne.

Inasmuch as the Mrs. knows this better than the rest,

let's have her share the credit for coming thru the best;

For fifty years of patience is a long time to go,

And she deserves great honor as we all here do know.

Now, to you both together,

I sincerely wish my best.

And may your life-long pleasure be pure happiness

We are the reciients of many anniversary cards containing beautiful expressions.  Mr. and Mrs. Payne were married at a farm home about three miles south of Edmeston village, June 11, 1890, by Rev. Stephen H. Wood.  There was one person, a cousin, Frank E. Payne, present at the anniversary party Tuesday night, who attended the wedding fifty years ago.

Obituaries (December 11)

Albert K. Peet

Died July 22, 1939, Edmeston, NY

Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY]:  Albert K. Peet died Saturday, July 22, 1939, of a heart attack.  He had been ill since Monday.  He was born in Edmeston, June 3, 1858, a son of Silas and Louisa Rubey Peet.  He was the last of his family.  He was twice married, first to Miss Ella Dickson of South New Berlin, who died in 1925.  He married Miss Alice Webster of Burlington in 1928.  She survives with one son, Renwic, of Syracuse, and four grandchildren. A son, Glenn, died in March, 1938.  Mr. Peet had always lived in Edmeston and in the vicinity of South New Berlin.  He was a meat dealer and conducted the Central Market in Edmeston until 1921.  He attended the Baptist church and was an active member.  Funeral services were held Monday at 2 o'clock from his late home, Rev. Daniel Harold Dunbar officiating.  Burial was made in Edmeston Union cemetery.

George Hickox

Died July 21, 1939, Preston, NY

George Hickox, aged 80, died Friday noon at Preston [Chenango Co., NY], following a long illness.  He was born November 17, 1858, in Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY]. There are no immediate survivors, with the exception of a niece, Mrs. Nellie Crawford of Norwich.

Glenn D. Peet

Died March 25, 1938, Utica, NY

Relatives from this place attended the funeral of Glenn Peet, which was held from the Houk undertaking parlors at Edmeston last Monday.  Rev. D.H. Woodward officiated and burial was in the Union cemetery.  Mr. Peet died suddenly from heart trouble at his home in Utica [Oneida Co., NY] where he had lived about three years after moving there from Edmeston.  His wife passed away about ten years ago.  He is survived by four children; Owen of South New Berlin, Raymond and Frances of Utica, and Miriam of Hope Sound, Florida, his father Albert Peet, and one brother Renwic of Syracuse.

Bessie Lydia Phelps

Died April 29, 1933, Norwich, NY

Following a week's illness, the death of Bessie Lydia Phelps, wife of Charles A. Phelps of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] occurred Saturday afternoon at the home of her son, Milton in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].  Mrs. Phelps was stricken ill suddenly while visiting her son here a week ago and she failed rapidly until the end.  Deceased was born in Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY] December 6, 1866, a daughter of Wallace House and Carrie E. Underwood.  Her entire life was spent in New Berlin and vicinity.  Mrs. Phelps was an active member in St. Andrew's church and Tianderah chapter, New Berlin, Order of the Eastern Star. Besides her husband and mother, Mrs. Phelps is survived by four children, Mrs. Budd Peaslee of Langley Field, Va., Gilbert and Travis Phelps of New Berlin and Milton Phelps of Norwich.  Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock at St. Andrew's church, New Berlin, the rector, Rev. Harrison Hadley, officiating. Burial was in St. Andrew's cemetery.

Raymond Everett Peck

Died December 31, 1939, Norwich, NY

Following an illness of two weeks, Raymond Everett Peck quietly passed away at his home, 10 Tillman avenue, early Sunday morning, December 31.  He was born at Jewett, Greene county, New York, March 3, 1878, the son of Brainerd and Sarah Peck, and a descendent of the religious pioneer, John Mason Peck, and also of Theopholos Peck one of the first settlers of Greene county.  On October 31, 1911, he married Carrie Edna Hunt of New Berlin.  Two children were born of this union, a daughter, Evelyn Dorothy, who survives and a son, Leslie D., who died in April 1930.  Mr. Peck was a fond lover of home, placing home ties and fellowships above all others.  He was for many years a member of the First Baptist church and a member of its board of deacons.  His character was exemplary.  he was exceptionally diligent in business and his going will be felt as a distinct loss by all who knew him. Besides his wife and daughter he is survived by a sister Mrs. William L. Mattocks, of Washington, D.C., and by three brothers, Frank B., of Big Moose, N.Y., and Harry A., and Allen A., of Jewett.  The service will take place at the Breese Funeral Home at one o'clock, Wednesday afternoon, January 3, Rev. James K. Romeyn officiating, and the burial will be in Lamb's cemetery, near South Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY].  

Death Notices

Chenango American, September 18, 1862

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., Mr. Thomas Main, aged 89 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Susan E. [Myers], daughter of James G. and Sarah Ann Myers, aged 3 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., of Cholera Infantum, Fanny F. Hughson, only daughter of Oria M. and Fanny Hughson, aged 2 months and 28 days.

In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst., Polly [Willet], wife of David Willet, aged 31? years.

In North Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., of Consumption, Gertrude Adelle Smith, daughter of David and Laura Smith aged 18 years, 9 months and 27 days.

In Syracuse [Onondaga Co., NY], on the 28th ult. of congestion of the lungs, Mr. John H. Morris? formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged -8? years.

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Mary Elizabeth [Pratt], eldest daughter of A.C. and Mary C. Pratt, aged 8 years and 1 months.

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., Mrs. David Bateman, aged 70 years.

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst., a daughter of Mr. Ovid Lines, aged 11 years.

Marriages (December 10)

Pegg - Evans

Married October 26, 1904, Norwich, NY

Married at the Baptist parsonage in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 26, 1904, by Rev. S.J. Ford, Henry E. Pegg of Morris [Otsego Co., NY] and Grace M. Evans.  The bride is the highly esteemed daughter of Mrs. G.B. Evans, and has lived in this vicinity all her life.  The young couple will for the present reside with Mrs. Evans.  Many friends extend best wishes for a life of unlimited happiness.

Ford - Peet

Married March 23, 1940, South New Berlin, NY

A very pretty wedding took place at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Ford Saturday evening March 23, 1940, at eight o'clock when their daughter, Miss Anita Mae Ford became the bride of Silas Owen Peet, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Glen Peet of Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY].  The ceremony was performed under an arch decorated with ever greens and pink and white sweet peas.  Reverend Clinton Skinner officiated and Mr. and Mrs. Merrill Ford, brother and sister-in-law of the bride, Sandra Ford, as flower girl, attended the couple. The bride wore a gown of light blue crepe and a corsage of pink roses.  Her attendant wore a rose crepe dress and a corsage of white sweet peas. The flower girl wore a light pink dress and carried a bouquet of forget-me-nots.  Members of the immediate families and a few friends were present at the ceremony and reception which followed.  Mr. and Mrs. Peet will live on the Mrs. Ida Dixson farm.

Pfeil - Barr

Married August 1`6, 1938, Norwich, NY

A very pretty all white wedding was solemnized at 10 o'clock Tuesday morning at the Calvary Baptist church when Miss Helen Barr, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Guy Barr, became the bride of Lewis A. Pfeil, son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Pfeil of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]. The ceremony was performed by Rev. Mickael Klinoff in the presence of immediate relatives and close friends.  Miss Barr was attended by her sister, Mrs. Earl Bates, as matron of honor, and Miss Bertha Coy and Leola Kirchbaum as bridesmaids. Roscoe Owens of Guilford was best man. The bride, who was given in marriage by her father, wore a white lace gown with long train. The veil had a lace cap caught with orange blossoms.  It was the one worn by her mother and sister.  Her bouquet was a shower of white roses.  Mrs. Earl Bates, matron of honor, wore a white net redingote over satin with white accessories to match.  Her bouquet was of white gladiolas. The bridesmaids wore white brocaded organdy redingotes with hats to match.  They carried arm bouquets of white gladiolas.  The bride's mother wore a sheer blue georgette dress with white accessories and corsage of sweet peas. The mother of the groom wore navy blue with corsage of sweet peas.  Prior to the arrival of the wedding party, Leland Benedict gave an organ recital.  Miss Dorothy Pfeil, sister of the groom, sang, "Because" and "I Love you Truly."  The church was beautifully decorated in white gladiolas.  Following a double ring service a wedding breakfast was served at the home of the bride. After a week's trip to the dedication of the International Thousand Island bridge and thru Canada, they will be at home to their friends in Guilford.  Those who entertained the bride prior to her marriage are Mrs. Earl Bates, Mrs. Leland Benedict, Mrs. Wilbur Turner, Misses Bertha Coy, Leola Kirchbaum, Lucy Bates, Mary and Eva Barnes.

Marriage notices

Chenango American, September 11, 1862

At the Chenango House, in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th ult., Mr. Chester E. Steward, to Miss D. Newton, both of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

At the M.E. Parsonage, in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th ult., Mr. Milo B. Benedict, to Miss M.E. Phillips, both of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

At the Chenango House, in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult., Mr. George Teed, to Miss Olive Partridge, both of Afton [Chenango Co., NY].

In New Orleans, on the 14th ult., by Rev. Dr. Woodbridge, Col. S.J.N. Smith, to Mary M. [Arnold], daughter of Peleg Arnold, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on the 23d ult., by Rev. W. V. Garner.  Mr. John W. Shear, of Kirkwood [Broome Co., NY] to Miss Phronie Edson, of Colesville [Broome Co., NY].

Chenango American, September 18, 1862

At the residence of the bride's father, in Scranton, Pa., on the 19th ult., by Rev. E.  Newell, Mr. Albert E. Lord of Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Climenia C. Slawson.

Obituaries (December 9)

Richmond Snell

Chenango American, September 25, 1862

A soldier named Richmond Snell, in Company A, Captain Curtis, 114th Regiment, died in Baltimore on the 12th inst., of typhoid fever.  He was a native of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY].

Lovina Baker

Chenango Telegraph, April 27, 1859

BAKER:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst., Mrs. Lovina Baker, aged 94 years and 13 days.  Aged puritan, thou art gone from these shores of trial, trouble, sin and sorrow to a better home.  Peacefully and happily hast thou lived during thy long pilgrimage, because thy every duty has been religiously done.  Deceased was a native of Massachusetts, and at an early day was married to Joseph Baker. they resided in Massachusetts until their family had grown up around them and were settled in life, but believing that they could better their circumstances by so doing, they removed to Guilford, Chenango Co., where Joseph Baker died the 2d day of Jan. 1850, aged 94 years.  And now she who is the subject of this notice is taken at the same age (nearly) and by the same disease--making a remarkable coincidence. They both lived a practical example of vital piety striving to do their whole duty as husband and wife, as father and mother, as members of society at large and as members of the Congregational church.  Deceased was always sought as a companion by old and young and middle aged because of the kindness and amiability of her nature and because the likeness of Christ was reflected in her every act, thought, and word. We sorrow because we shall not have her example or counsel more, yet we rejoice when we reflect hat at last she has arrived at the realms of eternal bliss and that she has left her example and precepts behind that we may profit thereby. We trust that all who knew her will be better for having lived within the light of her holy example and presence.  Joseph and Lovina Baker both retained their mental vigor until the last. 

Death Notices

Chenango Telegraph, April 27, 1859

MILLARD:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 16th inst., Harriet L. Millard, aged 2 years and 9 months.

COMES:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., John McKenne Gomes, aged 17 years.

BECKWITH:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., Judson Beckwith, aged 18 years.

TILLOTSON:  In Columbus [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst. Reuben Tillotson, aged 63 years.

LEWIS:  In Marathon [Cortland Co., NY], on the 14th inst., John H. Lewis.

Chenango Telegraph, April 20, 1859

GREEN:  In Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], Mrs. Abby Green, aged 73 years.

FERRIS:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst., [E]llen A. [Ferris] wife of Alanson Ferris, aged 21 years.

HOTCHKISS:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th? inst., Mrs. Laura Hotchkiss, aged 36 years.

FOOTE:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th? ult., Charles O. Foote, aged 33 years.

GALE:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th ult. of consumption, Mrs. Margaret Gale, aged 67 years.

McMASTER:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., Cyrus McMaster, aged 18 years.

Chenango American, June 19, 1862

In this village [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th ins.t, Lewis [Lyon], son of George M. and Eliza Lyon, aged 6 years and 8 months.

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., Mrs. Elizabeth McBirney, aged 48 years.

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., Eva A. [Baxter], daughter of Augustus Baxter, aged 2 years.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., Lucy P. Tillotson, aged 3 years, 2 months.

In German [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., Mr. W. Oysutebbanks, aged 70 years.

In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th inst., Mary Jane [Taylor], wife of Wm. Taylor, aged 30 years.

In Puna, Ill. on the 10th inst., Mr. Henry Brown, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], aged 54 years.

At Union Grove, Racine Co., Wis., on the 21st ult. Mr. Liver Heneny, formerly of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], aged 80 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., Mr. John Havens, aged 72 years.

Letter from the NY 114th Infantry - September 1862

Letter from the New York 114th Infantry

Chenango American, October 2, 1862

On Special Duty
Baltimore, Sept. 27, 1862

Editor American:  Since writing to you on the 11th inst., there has been no material change in the Regiment, excepting the withdrawal of a detachment of ten men from each Company for special guard duty at the Depot for Hospital stores, and also of Company I as guard at the Camden st. Hospital.  Your humble servant was favored with the confidence of his officers, and together with other trusty men we are now guarding United States property in a semi-accession city, where every opportunity to aid rebellion is eagerly seized upon, and where all property belonging to Uncle Sam is readily "confiscated" unless a strict guard is kept over it.  The disloyal feeling here has been manifested in various ways since the last great battle towards prisoners captured by our arms, and in one instance resulted in a miserable death to the sympathizer.  On the 25th a boatload of prisoners arrived here on their way to Fort Delaware, and on coming to the wharf, a man, well dressed and respectable looking, stepped aboard and entered into conversation with them.  While there he was heard to make use of language encouraging the captives to revolt, or if paroled or exchanged, to again take up arms against Federal authority.  He was at once ordered from the boat, and with a malediction upon all Union men and especially upon the soldiers, he left, remarking that he could and would whip the first soldier he met.  It so happened that a strapping fellow, in the cavalry uniform, heard this, and laid hold of secesh's collar, and said, "I am your man!"  A few blows were exchanged when the Union boy, thinking to cool off the fire of rebel blood, seized Mr. --- by the collar and launched him far out into the water.  He sank as if a stone, and after two hours search his body was recovered.  At the coroner's inquest the verdict was that "deceased came to his death in some manner unknown to the jury," one of the soldiers of our Regiment testifying that when he touched water there was no person within several feet of him.  The death of this man created much ill blood among his friends, who swore vengeance, and pistols and knives were handled very carelessly, until a guard ordered them away.

The appearance of the rebel prisoners beggars all description. All the printed reports that your readers have ever read cannot convey to the mind the accuracy.  Far best picture, and one that comes nearer the truth than any I have ever seen, is given by a Surgeon who was captured at Harper's Ferry.  He had an opportunity of seeing the whole rebel army as they crossed the Potomac into Maryland.  He had heard the usual accounts of the costume, appearance and condition of the rebel army, and like most of us supposed them exaggerations.  But he now says than no description he has seen approached the truth. There never was beheld such a gang of ragged, rowdy looking men.  It was like an army of rag pickers.  There was no uniform or attempt at uniform.  Officers and men were equally dirty and dingy.  The hats were commonly old "Wide Awakes," stained by a long campaign often with the tops gone and the hair streaming out. The trousers were of all colors, and generally in tatters up to the knees. The coats, if they had nay, were dirty and ragged, and often well greased by the pieces of bacon which each man carried on his bayonet. The shirts were black with long use.  Their blankets were of all colors and materials--often bits of carpeting and old bed comforters.  Nearly one half of the men were barefooted. They carried their crackers and bullets and caps all together in their pockets.  Both Officers and men were excessively lousy, and the stench from the passing columns was almost unbearable. The whole rebel army had, in the eye of this medical gentleman and his associates, a worn out, exhausted look. The physique was inferior to that of our men, and they evidently suffered from want of food and overwork.

The above compares perfectly with the appearance of prisoners that I have seen marching through this city.  The same gentleman, in another letter, gives reasons too plain and true to be contradicted, why and how it is that the rebel armies fight so persistently and furiously.  He says:  "The bodies of the rebels, within a few hours after death, became nearly black.  Decomposition begins at the moment pulsation ceases.  In the canteen of every dead rebel, tho' his knapsack was empty, remained a quantity of whiskey. At the bottom of each canteen, a precipitate that is nothing more or less than gunpowder.  The men are stimulated to the ferocity of tigers, by whiskey in which gunpowder is dissolved.  It is served to them when forming line of battle, in sufficient quantity to craze but not intoxicate. Thus semi-demonized, they rush to the very mouth of the Union cannon, and fight like wolves raging for their prey. The hasty decomposition of their bodies is ascribed to this maddening drink, and partly to the absence of all salt in their food, except in the salted bacon that forms their only other luxury beside the whiskey."

There are many places of interest in and around Baltimore to one who takes an interest in Revolutionary memories and improvements of more modern days. The first point of interest to the patriot is the Washington monument.  Its history is too familiar to your readers for me to enter into a rehearsal of it. The only wonder to me is how a people who live constantly under the benign countenance and outstretched hand of a Washington, can cherish treason in their hearts.  As I gazed at the pure white column that rose up so gracefully before me, I felt that if my hand or heart was set against the liberties that our country's Father gave to us, it would crumble and crush me in its fall.

The Forts, the Shot Tower, the Water Works, the Hospitals, the Camps and the Arsenals, all claim the attention of the soldier who is fortunate enough to be permitted to leave camping ground for an afternoon's recreation and many a lad who had scarcely ever breathed the atmosphere outside his own town or county, is astonished at the sight of so many houses and people, and open their eyes with wonder at the creation of men's hands.

This afternoon, as I write, there are half surmised rumors in town that an expedition against Richmond has been successful,--how true they may be, or how false, you will earn by telegraph before this reaches you.  Another rumor in town is that the rebels have sent Commissioners to Washington to negotiate for a peace.  There is no reliance to be placed in the latter rumor, in my opinion. 

With the assurance that our health and the health of our Regiment is good, I am yours, &c,  A.