Civil War Letter - 8th NY Regiment - June 1861

 Oxford Times, July 3, 1861

8th Regiment, Arlington Heights, Va., June 20 [1861]

Nothing of very great interest has occurred since my last letter.  We are going on in the same old style, expecting, but not receiving orders to forward march.  This suspense makes days seem as long as weeks.  But the weather, here now being pleasant, we get around the "woods," with which we have become quite familiar. The branches of the stately "Oak and Cedar," bend before summer breeze, and bow with reverence at our approach, while the feather tribe of the Forest are gaily singing, and the very B-frog's sonorous voice seems as if they were crying, "Union, Union, Union."

It is now noon; light nights, and a quiet walk through Gen. Lee's private Grounds down to the Road is very pleasant.

Our boys are making themselves quite happy here.  One of them in my company has a "Banjo," which often suffers, for as he cannot pitch into the Rebels, he pitches into it, and soon makes tears run down our sun-tanned faces, and keeps our tent in a roar of laughter.  Another has a Castanet, and some are good singers, so we manage to pass evenings pleasantly.  I don't know how the weather is up North, but it is getting very hot down here, with a very unpleasant abundance of insect life, but as we keep our Tents and Camps clean, it keeps them down some.  We had a severe storm here last week which lasted three days, and completely washed us out. the rain came through our tents, as through a sieve, and set us all to work, bailing out with our tin cans.  Our tents are made of cotton, and poor quality at that, no doubt sold to "Government," by some Swindling Contractor, for first class linen.  Ours would answer well for a Water Cure Establishment or a shower bath.  I went up to the 60th Reg't camp on Sunday, they have thrown up quite a formidable Earthworks, and have mounted some 32 pounders on them. They are a gallant set of men, and will give a good account of the Rebels if they come across them, and they devoutly wish they may.

We have been reviewed twice by the President and Secretary of War, and have had two parades of Divisions of about twelve thousand men, under General McDowell.  They made a splendid appearance, and were remarkably proficient in Field movements.  I hope the officers will provide equally good when it comes to practice. We have fine soldiers, and good officers will ensure our success.  Things are looking lively here tonight, our battery of 6 guns, have been sent forward, and we have just received forty rounds of ammunitions, and orders to hold ourselves in readiness, to march at a moment's notice. The 69th Reg't have moved, and the 13th Rochester boys and several others are under orders, so you may look for my next to be dated from some other place.  That place, I should like to be  "Richmond."

A poor fellow was brought into our camp the other night mortally wounded.  He was in the affair at Vienna, and received the ball that was aimed at General Tyler.  It struck him above the arm, and passed right through his shoulder, mortification has set in, and the Doctor says he cannot recover.   He was a fine, handsome looking fellow, and came from Connecticut.  He was carried on a litter to Washington today. They caught the Rebel that fired and intend to hang him--a just retribution for his crime.

It is the general feeling here, that we are on the eve of a great battle, if so, may God defend our cause.  One thing is certain, we shall do all that men can do.  Hardships of camp life, and strict discipline in our lines have somewhat altered our nature, strengthened our frames and "Made us all anxious, and ready for the fray, / Be it tomorrow, or any other day. / Our powder is dry, and our Bayonets are bright, / With Pistols at our side, and Belts buckled tight, / We will throw to the breeze, the stars and stripes / And 'neath them firmly we'll stand. / Till we put every traitor and Rebel to flight, / or kill, capture and some of them hang."

W.D.

Vital Records - March 1857

Oxford Times, March 4, 1857

Married:  In the Universalist Church, at East Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 22d, by Rev. C.S. Brown, Rev. S.L. Rorapaugh, of Smithville to Miss Sarah E. Cary, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]. 

Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 5, 1857

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., by Rev. H.W. Gilbert, Mr. Edwin F. Andrews, of Topeka, K.T. (formerly from Maine, Broome Co. [NY]) to Miss Lucy D. Wilson, of Franklin, Delaware Co. [NY].

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th ult., by Rev. L. Wright, Mr. Cyrus L. Clarke, of Iowa, to Miss Adelia S. Evans, of Norwich.

Married:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult., by Eld. M.M. Everts, Frederick Palmer, Esq., of London, Michigan, to Miss Adelia Hall, of the former place.

Died:  At East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., Mrs. Mary Sharp, in her 85th year.  Mrs. Sharp was born in 1772, in the town of Fishkill, Dutchess Co. [NY], where she resided until the close of the American revolution, when she married Bartholomew Sharp and removed to Greenbush, Rens. Co.  From thence she removed to Guilderland, Albany Co., and in 1812, she removed to Greene, Chenango Co., where she resided until her death.  Mrs. Sharp has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Chruch over 20 years, and until her death, which was one of peace, she manifested a firm hope in her Saviour. She was ready to assist the needy and comfort the afflicted.  She was an affectionate wife and mother, and has at length gone down to the grave full of years.

Died:  In Homer [Cortland Co., NY], on the 22d ult., Dollie A. [Bowen], daughter of Ira Bowen, Esq., and sister of Mrs. Nelson Pellet, of Norwich, aged 24 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., James Foote, aged 81 years.

Died:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], Eld. Latha, of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], aged 86 years.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th ult., Dea. Gardiner J. Kenyon, in the 61st year of his age.

Oxford Times, March 11, 1857

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., by Rev. H. Gee, Mr. William T. Mandeville of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Adelia Thurber, of this village.

Married:  In the Baptist Church, in this village [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., by Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. George Bavin to Miss Almira N. Wade, both of Norwich.

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., by the Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. Daniel Holdredge, of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss P.A. Rhodes of Oxford.

Married:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Joseph N. Rathbone of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], to Mrs. Hannah Hill of Preston.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d February, Mr. Isaac Preston, aged 34 years.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., Mr. James Patterson, aged 56 years.

Died:  In Jackson, Miss, on the 12th Miss Louisa Merrill of Oxford, Chenango Co. [NY], aged 23 years.  The deceased came to this State, principally as a teacher about four years ago, since which time she lived in this city, and neighborhood, and was highly esteemed and beloved by all who knew her.  With naturally amiable and cheerful disposition and kind heart, she was not long a stranger in our midst, but soon won for herself many warm and devoted friends.  She made a profession of her faith in Christ Jan. 1853, and continued from that time a consistent, cheerful, growing Christian.  Distrustful at first of her own piety, she hesitated about making a public profession, and did not, until she had tested and had examined well the experience of her own heart.  Thus having given herself to the Saviour, when the dew and freshness of youth was upon her, she was made to realize the truth of that precious promise.  "Those that love me, I will love, and those that seek me early shall find me."  Admonished by disease months before her death, that her pilgrimage would probably be short, the world gradually lost for her its attractions, while she "looked for a city whose builder and maker was God."  She spoke freely and calmly of death, and was willing to be released from the pains and sufferings of earth and time, though she murmured not at her sufferings, which were at times severe.  When passing through the final struggle, conscious that death had come, she remarked: I am going; rapidly going; and in a few minutes fell asleep in Jesus. There was the impress of peace with God,  "Death without a sting, the grave without a victory."

"How blest the righteous when he dies, / When sinks a weary soul to rest, / How mildly beam the closing eyes. / How gently heaves the expiring breast, / Life's duty done as sinks the clay. / Light from its load the spirit flies, / While heaven and earth combine to say / How blest the righteous when he dies."

Jackson, Miss, Witness

Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 12, 1857

Married:  In German [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., by Rev. E.D. Thurston, Mr. Alexander Lewis, to Miss Almira E. Birdlebough, all of the former place.

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., by Rev. James Abercrombie, Dr. Andrew Baker, to Mrs. Sarah M. Fitch, both of Norwich.

Married:  In Christiana, Wis., on the 12th ult., by Elder Z. Campbell, Mr. J. DeMott Crandall, to Miss Annie Maria Crandall, of the former place.

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th ult., Mrs. Margaret Bunnell, daughter of Mr. Wm. Winter, aged 31 years.  A lingering illness proceeded the departure of the friend above named.  Wasted in flesh and strength she lingered in the circle of home and kindred much longer than could have been expected. The disease through which she sank down to the grave was contracted during a residence at the West.  Watched over by tender, sisterly nursing and care, surrounded by family and friends by whom she was warmly loved, trusting to the hopes and consolations of Christ's Gospel she softly breathed out her soul to God.  She has left a bereaved husband and two young and lovely children to lament a loss that can never to them be filled.  Few things are more touching amid the sorrows of life than the bereavement sustained by tender children in the loss of a fond mother's love and watchful care. The more unconscious they are of their deprivation the more vividly we feel for their sad condition.  But "their Angels" in such care as the Saviour says, "do always behold the face of my father who is in Heaven."  From a family which numbered thirteen children to which the deceased belonged, the first severances that have occurred by death have been within two months past, a brother at the West having died only a few weeks preceding the wasting away of her whose decease we now notice.  But a short time previous to the departure of the deceased from life, she sought the comfort of the Holy Communion, knowing in very deed that it was to be the last partaking of that holy Supper until she should taste of that cup anew in the circle of a brighter world.  It was in fact the divine nourishment on which she was sustained and prepared for entrance into the valley of death.  May mourning hearts find in the pledges she had left and in the memory of her virtues, a balm to their sorrows.

Died:  In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., after a lingering illness, Naomi Jane [Haight], wife of Elihu Haight, aged 26 years.

Died:  In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst., Benjamin T. Stevens, aged 76 years.

Oxford Times, March 18, 1857

Died:  At the Branch Mills, Manitowoc County, Wis., on Tuesday, the 24th inst., Mrs. Lydia Lenneville, wife of Francis Lenneville, aged 56.  Mrs. Lenneville was born at Oxford, Chenango county, N.Y., and was granddaughter of Gen. Hovey, founder of that town.  She became a resident of this County long before its organization, and was the authoress of some very interesting reminiscences published several years ago in the Green Bay Advocate.  For some years past, she was in feeble health, and the disease which finally consumed her, made sure and fatal progress.  She was an intelligent and agreeable lady, esteemed for her kind and estimable qualities, and the loss to her family and friends, is severe, beyond description.  Manitowoc Herald.

Died:  In Higginsville, Oneida Co. [NY], on the 8th inst., Miss Sarah J. Barnard, in the 20th year of her age.  The sudden death of this young lady give a painful shock to a large circle of friends, by whom she was dearly beloved.  In society she was genial and warm hearted, drawing around her the love and esteem of her associates who are left with bursting hearts to lament her sudden and early death.  She was the picture of beauty and health, until about 14-hours previous to her departure from this world.  Thus are youth and beauty crushed, a parent's fondest hopes lost by the hand of Death.  This scene tells us loudly and with awful emphasis how vain and futile are our hopes of the future.  Father, Mother, Brothers and Sisters bowed down by grief and woe, this loss to you is like the sound of a mighty oak falling in the stillness of the forest, shattering every limb from its parent body. No language can describe the sorrow and anguish you now endure, although she was warm in your hearts. The King of Shadows was deaf to the cries of friends or the charms of beauty.  He has seized with his cold and icy grasp a loved one, and she has gone to the land of spirits.  It is heart rending to part with one so promising and lovely.  But the decree of God must be obeyed, and she now, like the drooping flower, rests among the unnumbered dead.  To her young friends, who associated with her so frequently, and were in her company almost daily, saw her enjoying life, health and happiness and in the short space of a few hours, behold her clothed in the habiliments of death, how pale! how silent! She now cannot rise to welcome you with that natural smiling face. Can you follow her to the open grave and stand among the habitations of the silent dead without there receiving an impression which shall sound in your ears for life?  You there see the narrow house appointed for all  living.  Fix your eyes on that last sad scene, and view life stripped of its beauty an ornaments.  You there must acknowledge the uncertainty of life and the power of death.  While you dropped the sympathetic tear over that friend, did you not think that you too must die.  Then let us improve this solemn warning. Engrave it upon our memories in a manner which will profit us hereafter.  To Miss Barnard's immediate relatives and friends who are most heart stricken at the loss so many deplore, we can sincerely, deeply and most affectionately sympathize with you in this afflictive bereavement and cheerfully leave the dead in the hands of that Being who has done all things well.

Sleep on gentle Lady, / And may the Angels of Heaven / Crown thee with flowers forever.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 19, 1857

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst. by Rev. E.D. Thurston, Mr. George W. Allen, of the former place to Miss Harriet O. Truesdell of Harpursville, Broome Co. [NY].

Married:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., by Rev. Mr. Huntington, Mr. Clark S. Bradley to Miss Harriet Godfrey, all of the above place.

Died:  In King's Settlement [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst. of consumption, Mrs. Maria P. [King], wife of Albert B. King, and daughter of the late Nathan Parker, Jr., of Norwich, aged 24 years.

Died:  In King's Settlement [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., Bennie [King], infant son of Albert B. and Maria P. king, aged 1 year 3 months and 16 days.

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] on the 12th inst., Mr. Matthew Griswold, aged 73 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 10th inst. Mr. James Patterson, aged 56 years.

Died:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY] on the 3d inst. Mr. John Barnes, aged 76 years.

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] on the 25th ult. at the residence of her son, Mrs. Lucy [Hewes] relict of the late Elijah Hewes, aged 82 years and 10 months.

Oxford Times, March 25, 1857

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst., by Rev.  H. Gee, Mr. Eli Willcox of this village, to Mrs. Mary Sawyer of Middlebury, Ohio.

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., by Rev. H. Gee, Mr. Lyman Elder of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Melinda Alexander of Norwich.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., Lucretia Maria Brooks, youngest daughter of Horace and Sally Brooks, aged 12 years.

Died:  In Buffalo on the 16th inst., at the residence of his son Charles E. Noble, Cyrenus Noble, Esq., in the eighty-first year of his age.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 26, 1857

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th inst. by Rev. E. Hoag, Mr. Jacob Vosburgh, to Miss Hannah M. Minshin, both of Norwich.

Married:  In Lansing, Tompkins Co. [NY], on the 11th inst., by Rev. J.R. Burdick, Mr. Alfred W. Avery, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Amadella Head, of the former place.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., by Rev. J.W. Mitchell, Mr. Addison Taylor of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Emily C. [Dimmick], daughter of Ebner Dimmick, Esq., of the former place.

Married:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst. by Rev. J.W. Mitchell, Mr. Benjamin P. Conkey, of Lebanon, Madison Co. [NY], to Miss Clarinda E. King of the former place.

Married:  In Columbus [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst.by Rev. Mr. Row, Mr. Leonard A. Marble to Mrs. Rosetta Blackman, both of the above place.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst. by Rev. J. Chamberlin, Mr. James Foster, of Sherburne, to Miss Caroline Gorton, of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Rockdale [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d ult., by Rev. L.G. Weaver, Mr. Lewis Coon, M.D., of Mount Upton [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Lucia Caragan, of Saratoga Springs [Saratoga Co., NY].

Married:  In Charleston, S.C., on the 5th inst., by the Rev. Wm. Bours, Daniel Gray, Esq., of New York, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Eunice N. [Bours], only daughter of the late Luke Bours, Esq., of Charleston.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., of typhoid fever, Amos B. Packer, aged 46 years.

Died:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., Mrs. Betsey A. [Hickok], wife of Harlow Hickok, aged 36 years.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult., Doct. W.H. Wilbur, aged 42 years.

Civil War Letter - June 1861

 Oxford Times, June 26, 1861

Camp Scott, Staten Island, June 18th 1861

I got back here yesterday, and found that six or eight of the boys of our company had deserted.  Three of those who left us got to Norwich [Chenango co., NY] at the same time I did, and circulated such stories about us that recruiting was about impossible.  At Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], we had eight men enrolled who refused to go, simply because they had heard that Webb and two others had returned, and did not know their reasons for leaving.

When I left for Norwich, we had sixty-one members, and had they all stayed by us, our company would now have been full.  As matters now stand, it is very discouraging.  A large number of the boys have got homesick, and not having been swore in, it is impossible to keep them. We have enrolled 140 members for this company, and since had here at one time only 65 men.  This morning they all left us, but about 50.  A good part of these have been wanting to go home for some time.  I shall not at present mention any names, but I must say that I am very much disappointed in the blood of Old Chenango.  Not in the patriotism of her citizens, but in the manhood and bravery of her sons.  The boys are very fickle, they have no complaints to make about their fare or officers. The novelty of the thing has worn off, and they have determined to go home. Would to God we had never brought them.  I do not wish to say a word against our Captain, but it does seem as though he at least ought to keep up firm determination. When he saw the turn things were taking today, instead of urging the boys with all his influence to keep up good spirits and stay with the company, he has circulated a paper purporting to be his resignation, and the disaffected boys have signed it.  He has gone to New York, whether to come back or not, I do not know.  He has got entirely discouraged. We may as well say it first as last. The company is disbanded by the desertion of the boys.  Bloom and myself with sixteen boys whom we have induced to follow us have consolidated into a company from Steuben County. Albert Neidick, Dwight Adams and James E. Brown from Oxford, are with us, Ed. Mitchell and Tyler Bush are now on the Camp grounds, undecided what to do.  Thomas A. Barber with eighteen or twenty  others from Norwich and vicinity have left the grounds.  I exceedingly regret that matters are in this fix, the few boys who have got this company together feel conscious of having done all we could both to form the company and to hold it together when formed.

With such a state of things you will readily see that we are entirely undeserving the flag which the good people of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] were intending to present us.  What the issue of this affair will finally be, it is hard telling.  It will take only a little time when we shall know for a certainty.

Capt. Tyrrell's company are now encamped on the ground where Willson's men were quartered.  They expected to go to Harrisburgh, Friday of this week.  They have received their uniforms and are in the best of spirits.  

A thousand thanks to the young ladies of Oxford.  Would that all of the young men of Chenango were worthy of their noble efforts.  Remember me to my friends in Oxford.   R.

Vital Records - February 1857

 Oxford Times, February 4, 1857

Married:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th of Dec. last, by Rev. Cyrus Steer, Mr. Ira Johnson of Otselic [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Nancy M. Thompson of McDonough.

Married:  On Jan. 1st, by the same, Mr. Samuel B. Crosby to Miss Cornelia West, all of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 14th, by Rev. H. Callahan, Mr. William H. Smith to Miss Mary B. Whittemore, both of Guilford.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, February 5, 1857

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the evening of the 28th ult., by Rev. Jas. D. Webster, Mr. Henry Race, to Miss Ann M. Moore, both of the above place.

Married:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult., by the Rev. B. S. Williams, Mr. I.E.H. Sabin to Miss Harriet Mygatt(?).

Married:  Also at the same time and place, by the same, Mr. Jas. M. Saben to Miss Mary Mygatt.

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult., by Rev. J.O. Bartholomew, Mr. Orrin Wheeler of Morrisville [Madison Co., NY], to Miss Olive A. Basset of Oxford.

Married:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th ult., by Rev. S.L. Rorapaugh, Mr. Jas. J. Noyes, to Miss Eunice F. Clark, both of Preston.

Died:  In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst. at the residence of her son-in-law, Mr. E.G. Kinney, Mrs. Olive Seymour, aged 82 years.

Died:  In Orange Co. [NY], on the 80th ult., Mary Jane [Treat], wife of Platt Treat, aged 27 years.

Oxford Times, February 11, 1857

Married:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. John S. Webb to Miss Mary A. Davis, both of Smithville.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on Sunday evening inst., Ethan Clarke, Esq., aged 67 years, 10 months and 8 days.  Mr. Clarke was born in Hopkinton, Rhode Island, and at an early age removed with his father to Brookfield, Madison County, N.Y. where he remained until the Spring of 1821, when he came to Oxford, and has since resided here.  Mr. Clarke was in usual health on Sunday morning, attended Church in the forenoon and returned therefrom exhibiting so far as could be, or was perceived by his family, no signs of the near approach of death,.  Owing to the sudden rise of the River, the guard bank to the feeder of the Canal, a short distance above the village, commenced giving away about 2o'clock, P.M. on Sunday, and it was thought best to remove a quantity of flour from the cellar of the store house, owned by the deceased, and occupied by the firm of J.W. Clarke & Co., of which firm he was a member.  Mr. Clarke with his usual activity and energy, repaired to the store house to assist as far as he was able in securing the property.  He was found a few minutes before 3 o'clock, lying between the wall of the store house cellar and a cask standing in the cellar, in an insensible state, and was forthwith removed to his dwelling a few rods distant.  His physicians discovered that he had been attacked with a violent fit of apoplexy, in which he remained entirely insensible until about half-past 5 o'clock, when mortality became swallowed up in immortality.  Thus has passed away another of that band of old men, and early citizens of our village, who early became identified with its interests, shared and gloried in its prosperity, who will be remembered by the monuments they have reared by their indomitable energy and activity.  The works they have left are their best praise, their best eulogy the long continued and uninterrupted respect and affection of our citizens.  Among this band none more conspicuous, none more respected, none more deserving than Mr. Clarke.  Always ready and willing to aid with his means, by his counsel and advice, and by his labor in the advancement of all public interests and public improvements, no one has been or will be more missed, no one whose absence will create a greater void.  He was emphatically a useful man, useful to our village as a public spirited and energetic man, useful in promoting the good and welfare of society, and of the Academy of which he was for many years a valuable and efficient trustee, useful in his labor in the giving of his means in his life and his example in building up, sustaining and upholding the Church.  With him "Life was real, life was earnest, / And the grave was not its goal."  And though middle age had passed over Mr. C. ere they were sung, how perfectly in him were exemplified those other words of the poet.  "Act--not in the living Present; / Heart within, and God o'er head." His funeral will be attended at his late residence on Thursday at 2 o'clock P.M.

 Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., Mr. J.F. Gernsey(?), aged 50 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, February 12, 1857

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., Mrs. Sarah Hammond, mother of John Hammond, Esq., of Norwich, aged 84 years.

Died:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., Lyman Hall, aged 54 years.

Died:  In Poolville, Madison county [NY], on the 27th ult. Ellen [Brainard], daughter of Wm. G. Brainard, aged 21 years.

Died:  In Cincinnatus, Cortland country [NY], on the 25th ult. Benjamin R. Kingsley, aged 62 years.

Oxford Times, February 18, 1857

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on 29th Jan., Clark Loomis, son of Mr. Daniel Loomis, aged 20 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, February 19, 1857

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst. by Rev. L. Wright, Mr. Alonzo Benjamin, Esq., to Miss Harriet C. Eggleston, both of the above place.

Married:  In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., by G.W. Edwards, Esq., Mr. Geo. Ward to Cherry Valley, Winnebago Co., Ill. to Miss Laura Kinney of the former place.

Died:  In Hamilton [Madison Co., NY], on the 12th inst., of hemorrhage of the lungs, Mrs. Amelia Dorman, aged 20 years.

Died:  in Toronto, Canada, L.F. Lewis, formerly of Hamilton [Madison Co., NY].

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., of heart disease, Mary D....y [Hayes], daughter of Edward and Diana Hayes, aged 18 years and 2 months.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., Joel F. Gleason, aged 50 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst. Peleg B. Folger, aged 64 years.

Died:  In Hartwick, Otsego Co. [NY], John Luther, in the81st yer of his age.

Oxford Times, February 25, 1857

Another Revolutionary Patriot Gone:  Died:  January 20th, 1857, at the residence of his son, James G. Mersereau, in Tioga, Tioga county, Pa., Joshua Mersereau, aged 97 years, 7 months and 12 days.The deceased was born on the north side of Staten Island, resided a long time at Guilford, Chenango Co., N.Y., and lately near Erwin Center, Steuben Co., N.Y.  His father, Joshua, himself and his brother L. (late of Covington, Tioga Co., Pa.) were devoted and active Patriots in our Revolutionary struggle.  He has voted at every Presidential election and gave his first vote to Washington, and his last to Fremont.  He was descended from Huguenot ancestors who were driven from France by the bloody persecutions which ensued on the revocation of the edict of Nante's and he exhibited in no small degree the virtues justly attributed to the Huguenot character  Tioga Agitator.

Fatal Disaster in Brookfield [Madison Co., NY]:  On Sunday the 9th inst. as two young men, named Main and Hall, were endeavoring to dislodge the ice which threatened the destruction of the bridge and dam near the late residence of Hon. Elisha Randall, one mile south of Clarkville, Madison county [NY], the dam and bridge suddenly gave way, precipitating the young men, togther with the mass of ice and timber that had accumulated above, into the frightful vortex below, crushing young Hall's head in a shocking manner and instantly killing him.  Mr. Main, although severely injured, had sufficient courage and presence of mind to rescue the body of young Hall from the surging element, from which it seems almost incredible he himself should have escaped.  His efforts to save his companion's life were however unavailing, one side of young Hall's head being completely torn away, and his lower jaw crushed. The deceased was 17 years of age, and a son of Jesse W.  Hall, Esq., of New Berlin, Chenango Co. [NY].  Morrisville Observer.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, February 26, 1857

The Sherburne Transcript mentions the sudden death of Levi Gager, an old and highly esteemed resident of that town, on Tuesday last.  He was in the house of a neighbor, and while conversing, fell from his chair and immediately expired.  His death is supposed to have been caused by disease of the heart.  His age was 69.

Married:  In Binghamton, [Broome Co., NY], on the 14th inst., by Rev. A.P. Mead, Mr. Nelson R. Jackson, of Greene [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Eleanor P. Egleston, of Triangle [Broome Co., NY].

Married:  In Poolville, Madison county [NY], Jan. 29th, by the Rev. Mr Starr,  Mr. Richard Evans, Jr., to Miss Amanda B. Pool, of Poolville.

Married:  In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst., by G.W. Edwards, Esq., Mr. Gilbert Tuttle, of Georgetown, Madison county, to Miss Mary Jane Coy, of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on the 12th inst. by Wm. M. Waterman, Esq., Mr. Barney W. Sherwood, of Conklin [Broome Co., NY] and Miss Helen A. Brink, of Windsor [Broome Co., NY].

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult. Clark [Loomis], son of Daniel Loomis, aged 20 years.

Died:  In Olean Point, Cattaraugus county [NY], on the 12th inst., Mr. Caleb Smith, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], aged 76 years.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th inst., Mr. Ebenezer Ogden, aged 21 years.

Died:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on the 27th ult., at the residence of her father, Miss Fanny Alderman, aged 14 years.

Died:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on the 29th inst. Harriet Pamela [Cooke], infant daughter of Geo. H. and Francis A. Cooke.

A Chapter of Accidents:  On Friday last, John Rooney and John S. Carpenter of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], were hunting rabbits, about two miles east of Smithville Flatts, and when about leaving for home, Carpenter proposed to show Rooney the nearest route out of the woods.  After proceeding a few rods on their way, Carpenter in advance of Rooney some 6 or 8 feet.  Rooney's gun was accidentally discharged, either by the trigger being caught on the twig of a tree, or striking the hammer of the lock upon a log.  The contents passed into Carpenter's leg, near and above the knee joint.  He lived only 6 or 8 hours after the accident.

Another:  On Saturday last, Andrew Bailey of Smithville, while at work in a saw mill, owned by Bennet & Taylor, in the act of moving some splinters in front of the saw, had his right arm caught by the saw, at the joint of the wrist, and his hand nearly severed from the arm.

We are also informed that a child of Jared Ingersoll, was severely scaled last week.  Also that a son of Benajah White had two of his fingers sawed off, and that a man had his jaw broken in a fight.  All of the parties resided in Smithville.  A chapter of accidents indeed, for one week.

Civil War Letter - NY 8th Regiment - May 1861

 Oxford Times,  June 12, 1861

8th Regiment, Arlington Heights, Va., May 28 [1861]

Since writing to you last from the Relay House, we have been on the advance.  We marched into Washington on the 18th and were quartered at a place outside of the City, called Katoraince Heights.  The first night, as usual, we laid down on the grass, with nothing to shelter us but the broad sky. But as we were tired, and got broke into it, we did not mind that.  Myself and a few others picked out a soft place on the side of a hill, and made ourselves as comfortable as possible under the circumstances. Yet it was a cold night, and our blankets very thin, and was some time before we slept. The stars were shining brightly through the trees, and the little creek at our feet was running silently on accomplishing its destiny like ourselves, while our thoughts were to the loved ones far away, till blessed and welcome sleep came, and drilled all into oblivion. We were all awake, and astir early the next morning.  Putting things to rights, pitching tents, &c.  We named the camp Mansfield Camp, in  honor of the General we were then under. We soon transformed the place into a busy Canvas Town, with streets, and avenues.  It is a delightful spot, the place where the celebrated Admiral Decatur was buried.  His tomb still stands here, and also the house he left on the eventful morning, to fight that duel, which cost him his life.  His Country has raised a very beautiful monument to his memory at Annapolis, which I think I described in a former letter. We had just arranged things comfortable at our camp, had floored over our tents, built a store house, and otherwise fixed up, when order came to strike tents and take the road to "old Virginia."  Our marching day, as usual, was Sunday, the third time since we left home. We started for fresh points on that day. The war unfortunately knowns no Sabbath, so packing up our worldly goods to carry in our knapsacks, we prepared to start on Sunday morning.  We were up and ready at half past 3 A.M., got our knapsack overcoat, blanket, twenty-four rations, and the same of ball, cartridges, and a musket weighing 14 pounds on our shoulder, fell into line (without any hot coffee, as cooking utensils were packed the previous night) and prepared for Review.  It is these necessary ceremonies, which tire men out, as they have to wait and loiter around generally an hour or two before starting. We took up the line of march, through Washington, across the long Bridge (one mile long) and around the base of the heights to this place--a long weary march it was.  Through some mistake, we were taken considerably beyond the place, for although only about four miles in direct line across, yet around the way we came which must have been nine miles.  We arrived here at 12 o'clock noon on Sunday. The day was very hot, and we had been under arms since half past 3 that morning, with no refreshment except a cup of water and a hard biscuit, so you must conclude that we were thoroughly exhausted. We are now encamped on General Lee's private Grounds, it consists of some thousands of acres, situated on, and around Arlington Heights.  We marched up and took possession. The family had left some days previous, and the only persons remaining were an overseer and some 20 slaves. The dark portion, judging from their smiling faces, inwardly bade us welcome.  He has, some 300 slaves, and took them with him. The house is an old style of building, very comfortable and massive. At the front is a beautiful lane, stretching down to a shrubbery of Cedar and other evergreen trees; it is some five hundred feet above the broad Potomac, and commands a magnificent view of the river and the Capitol.  I do not know what style of Architecture you would call this, but looks to me like a Roman Temple, it has a large Portico, and some dozen Pillars six feet in diameter, which gives it a noble appearance.  It belonged to Washington's wife, and contains the room in which he was married, also, the chair he sat on, and table he wrote at.  His portrait hangs there, and if it could speak, it would no doubt, encourage us in the noble cause we have sworn to defend, and for which he consecrated the large portion of his life, the perpetuity of freedom. The Tomb, of white marble, of Mr. and Mrs. Carter, is here, they were the Grandchildren of Mrs. Washington, and the present wife of General Lee, is their daughter.  So you see we are on interesting ground. We are encamped in a grove of oak trees, in the rear of the mansion, which shelters us from the sun. This is our Headquarters, and where artillery was said to be placed, to shell Washington, but we found nothing of the kind, so far.  We are still the advance Guard in this direction, and are with General McDowell's U.S.A. Body Guard, who has his quarter with us. We keep a sharp look out here every night. At dark, 30 infantry, a squad of Texas Rangers and two pieces of flying Artillery are sent out from here to act as scouts and picket guard.  It is reported there are 400 rebels encamped some six miles from here, so you need not be surprised to hear of a brush at any time.  General Lee has ten thousand men at Richmond, and says he will recapture this place if it costs him ten thousand men.  Let him try.  I think it will cost him more men, as we can concentrate thirty thousand men at this point in two or three hours. That useful invention, the Telegraph, advances with us, wires are stretched from Washington to here, so that we can communicate instantly with the War Department. 

Previous to leaving the Capitol, we were sworn into the U.S. Service for three months from the 25th of April last.  The Regiment was formed in three sides of a square, with the colors at the head. The oath was pronounced aloud by a magistrate and then repeating it after him, at the same  time raising the right hand, while the left supported our musket.  Those that refused to take the oath, were then told to step forward.  And out of that 1000 men, there were but three, and that after one month's hard campaigning.  They were recruits, and probably got disheartened. They were marched around and in front of the entire square, with three men with fixed bayonets pointed at them.  The rear brought up by the Drummers beating the Regt's march.  I would rather go through [-?-] engagements than to go through that.  They were drummed out of the camp, disgraced men, and had it not been for [the compassion] of their late comrades, who took up a collection for them, they would have been left destitute.  In the streets of Washington General McDowell was pleased with our proficiency, and stated that he had less men refuse than any regiment he had previously sworn in.  

We have good times here, fresh meat every day.  Steak for breakfast, roast and broiled meat for dinner, and sometimes a slice of bacon for supper.  Our company went down to bathe in the river this morning, under commend of a lieut. left their jackets in their tents and marched down in their red shirts, to the tune of Dixey's land.  This is a beautiful country, and one would think too fine to produce traitors, but as the finest country breeds the most poisonous Reptiles, so I suppose that is the way with this.  The wheat here looks good, and nearly full eared, while the young birds are beginning to move around.    W.D.

Vital Records - January 1857

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, January 1, 1857

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 31st ult. by Rev. E.D. Thurston, Mr. T.J. Lyon to Miss Helen E. Kelley, all of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  The same day, by the same, Mr. Washington A. Wa.. to Miss Cornelia A. Perkins, all of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th ult., by Elder A. Parker, Mr. Franklin A. Williams of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Susan Parker of the former place.

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult. by Rev. L. Wright, Mr. Thos. K. Terry of Norwich to Miss Mary M. Sisson of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult., by Rev. E.L. Benedict, Mr. Stephen Hawley of Earlville [Madison Co., NY], to Miss Mary E. Weaver of the former place.

Died:  In German [Chenango Co., NY] on the 29th ult. Mr. Cornelius Mericle, aged 86 years.

Died:  In Clarkville, Madison Co. [NY], on the 23d ult. Hattie Adele [Clark], only child of Allen and Olivia Green, aged 10 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] on the 14th ult. Mrs. Nancy Preston in the 75th year of her age.

Died:  In Chillicothe, Ill. on the 4th ult. David R. McMaster, formerly of South Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] aged 26 years.

Oxford Times, January 7, 1857

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst. by the Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. Francis E. Willoughby of Linnville, Ogle Co., Ill. to Miss Jennette E. Root of Oxford.

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst. by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Charles A. Graves to Miss Laura Ann Holdredge, both of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].

Mr. L.J. Thayer, while dining yesterday at Harvey's Hotel, Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], grew suddenly ill, and died immediately after being removed from the room.  He was from Mohawk [Herkimer Co., NY], a carpenter, employed in getting timber for the Erie Canal and was somewhat dissipated.  His age was 43, and he leaves a wife and two children.  A Coroner's inquest held upon the body of Mr. Thayer found that he died from a piece of beef sticking in his wind pipe and choking him.  Norwich Reporter.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, January 8, 1857

Married:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th  inst., by Elder A. B. Jones at the house of Jared Page, Mr. Henry L. Jones to Miss Almira C. Page, both of this town.

Married:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th(?) ult. by Rev. H.W. Gilbert, Mr. Lyman H. Hotchkiss to Miss Evelyne Ingersoll, both of Smithville.

Married:  In the Presbyterian Church, Guilford Centre [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst. by Rev. Mr. Huntington, Mr. William G. Mandeville, of Norwich to Miss Jane A. Kraft of the former place.

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst. Mrs. Audria Hotchkiss, wife of Hiram Hotchkiss, aged 47 years and 10 months.

Died:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., Franklin Dwight [Aldrich], son of Smith and Rhoda A Aldrich, aged 4 months and 15 days.

Died:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst. of apoplexy, Mrs. Tabitha [Benedict], wife of Daniel Benedict, aged 76 years.

In Willet, Cortland Co. [NY], after a short illness, on the 2d inst., Nelson Holmes, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], in the 52d year of his age.

Oxford Times, January 14, 1857

Mr. Elijah H. Mallery, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co., NY], in this county, was instantly killed at Clarksville, Allegany Co., N.Y. on the 31st of December last, by a log rolling upon him while engaged in loading and drawing saw logs.  His age was 30 years and he leaves a wife and six children to mourn his loss.

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 6th, by Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. Justus H. Green of West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Juliette Woods of Oxford.

Married:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th(?) inst. by Rev. Mr. Huntington, Mr. William C. Mandeville of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Jane A. Kane(?) of the former place.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, January 15, 1857

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst. at the residence of [...?...] Mr. William Tracy of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss [?] H. Harrington of the former place.

Married:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] on the 4th inst., by Rev. H. F. Row, Mr. William W. Woodard of South New Berlin to Miss Sarah A. Thomson of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], on the 1st inst. by Rev. S.C. Ainsworth, Mr. S.A. Benton of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Ann Stoddard of Hamilton [Madison Co., NY].

Died:  Suddenly in Utica [Oneida Co., NY], on the 9th inst. of scarlet fever, Willie [Bristol], son of W.J. and Harriet Bristol, aged 11 months and 17 days.

Oxford Times, January 21, 1857

Married:  At St. Paul's Church [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on Thursday, 15th inst., by Rev. S. Hanson Coxe, Dr. L.P. Wagner, and Miss Julia E Sands both of Oxford.

Married:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 18th, 1856, by L. Ingersoll, Esq., Mr. Ransom Hill to Miss Sarah A. Benedict, both of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Portsmouth, Ohio, Dec. 29th, Samuel Miles Tracy, aged 61 years, formerly of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  At Cannonsville, Delaware Co [NY], on the 14th inst., Darius Maples, Esq., aged 72 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, January 22, 1857

Married:  In Columbus [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst. by Rev. J. Olney, Mr. George D. Button to Miss Mary A. Dalton, both of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst. by Rev. JW. Mitchell, Mr. Jerome Simone to Miss Phebe H. Williams, all of the above place.

Married:  in Chenango, Broome Co. [NY], on the 18th inst., by Rev. Mr. Roberts, George C. Rice of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], to Louise M. [Russell], eldest daughter of Calvin Russell, Esq., of the former place.

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst., by Rev. S. Hanson Coxe, Dr. L.P. Wagner, and Miss Julia E. Sands, both of Oxford.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango co., NY], on the 15th inst. John Lamb, aged 76 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st ult. Frederick Salisbury, aged 72 years and 1 month.

Died:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst. Daniel E. Hinsdale, in the 21st year of his age.

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst. Emily Q. [Wightman], daughter of Wm. C. and Juliette Wightman, aged 5 years and 3 months.

Oxford Times, January 28, 1857

Married:  At the house of the bride's father, on the 26th inst., by Rev. .G. Bartholomew, Mr. Orrin Wheeler of Morrisville, N.Y. [Madison Co.], to Miss Olive A. Bassett of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]

Married:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst. by Rev. S.L. Roripaugh, Mr. James J. Noyes to Miss Eunice F. Clark, both of Preston.

Married:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 31st, by Rev. J.G. Bartholomew, Mr. Hiram F. Purdy to Miss Abigail Willcox, both of Smithville.

Married:  In South Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th ult. by Rev. J.G. Bartholomew, Mr. Devilloi C. Church to Miss Ann Augusta Landers.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 30th, Mr. George W. Furman formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 80 years. 

Died:  At Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult. Mrs. Mary J. [Yale], wife of Dr. John Yale, aged 30 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, January 29, 1857

Married:  [....] by Geo. W. Eaton, D.D. President of Madison University, Chas. A. Mott, Esq. of Lansingburgh [Rensselear Co. NY] to Fannie D. Eaton eldest daughter of the officiating clergyman.

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst. at the Baptist Parsonage, by Rev. O. Wright, Chas. A. Rathbunn of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] to Antoinette Dexter of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  Also at the same time and place, by the same, Wm. Dexter to Cynthia A. Reynolds, both of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst., at St. Andrew's Church, by Rev. R. Whittingham, S.L. Morgan of New York city to Sarah E. [Williams] only daughter of E.C. Williams, Esq., of the former place.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d inst. at the residence of his son-in-law, Lewis Juliand, Esq., Mr. Joseph Buttler aged 89 years.  The subject of this notice was for nearly sixty years a resident of New Hartford, Oneida Co. [NY], and was one of the pioneer settlers in that section of the State.  His memory is familiar to all the early residents of that portion of Oneida Co. where he so long dwelt.  For the last ten years he has made his home with the son-in-law, where he departed this life.  As long as his faculties of mind continued unimpaired, he was loved and honored for those kind, amiable and gentlemanly qualities of character which mark the mind of genuine refinement.  And even through the eclipse which gathered for some time past over his intellect there would be an occasional outgleaming of that spirit of elevated kindness and courtesy by which his character had been stamped.  It is a consolation to know that through his long residence in the family in the bosom of which his soul left the fleshly tabernacle, he was watched over and cared for by the tenderest filial solicitude and devotion. The remembrance of what he had been when reason held its throne made it a willing task to those in whose care he was thrown to minister to the comfort and relief of the aged parent, infirm and prostrate more in mind than body.  He was saved from the weariness of a protracted confinement to a sick bed.  having been characterized by regular and simple habits from early years the shrine of the spirit was free from marked ruin and decay even up to the day previous to death, although the light which once illumined it had burnt low in its socket.  He gently passed away from a world to which his vision had grown dim, to access we trust with an enclouded eye, the brightness of that land where the body can never more grow weak or weary, or the soul become darkened or dimmed.

Died:  In Belvidere, on the 15th inst. of consumption, Eliza A. [Stone], wife of Watts G. Stone, formerly of Norwich [Chenango co., NY], aged 21 years.

Died:  In Portsmouth, Ohio, on the 25th ult., Samuel M. Tracy, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 61 years.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., Adine Aldrich, aged 78 years.

Oxford Times, January 28, 1857

Fires in Guilford:  Loss of Life: The house of an old lady by the name of Comstock, living about three-fourths of a mile north of Fayette, was consumed by fire together with its owner, on the night of the 24th.  It was not discovered by anyone until the following morning, when all that remained were a few smoking timbers and a charred and blackened mass of what was once a human being.  The fire is supposed to have originated from the stove while she was asleep, and in her attempt to escape she was probably suffocated and thus burned to death.  She lived alone, having no relatives living, and was supported by the town and through the generosity of individuals.  A few shillings of money, probably all she had, were found near her body.  The School-house at Fayette, was also burned on the 25th.  Owing to scarcity of water, &C. it was impossible to extinguish the flames.

Small Pox at Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY]: We learn from The Sherburne Transcript, that the Board of Health continue to take every suitable precaution against the spread of this disease, and that the citizens, without exception, have shown a commendable regard to the sanitary regulations which have been adopted.  From the first appearance of the disease, all the cases except three assumed a very mild form, and most of them are reported convalescent.  Of the three severe cases, two are progressing favorably, the third, a son of Gen Rowland, fell a victim to the disease, on Wednesday evening.  No new cases of the disease have occurred since tis first outbreak, and we have reason to hope that through the intervention of a kind Providence, its farther progress will be stayed.

Civil War Letter - May 1861

 Oxford Times,  May 29, 1861

Relay House,, Md., May 1 [1861]

I am now writing under difficulties.  Squatting on the ground, under a small tent, which accommodates about six men, comfortable (being very small) and there are eight lying around me now, as I write this.  Some smoking, one asleep, and others reading and writing home.  Sweet home, a place never appreciated so much as when absent from it.  This is a great change for the boys, and pretty difficult to compose a letter, as they are making rather merry in the adjoining tent, and I would like to let you know the movements we have made since writing last, but I get confused as they refrain from "Annie Laurie," which is being sung in the aforesaid tent. The Washington Greys received marching orders on Saturday evening, May 4th to be ready by 4 o'clock the following morning.  Knapsacks were packed, muskets cleaned up.  On the following morning, the 8th N.Y.S.M. five thousand strong, marched out to the tap of the drum, to proceed as we anticipated to Washington. We took the cars at the city of Annapolis to the junction on the same line, where the Bridge had been destroyed, but was thoroughly repaired, and well guarded by the 6th Regt. New York.  We arrived at the junction of the Baltimore and Washington Roads, where the train stopped some little time, and gave as an opportunity of obtaining some refreshment.  Myself and six others, seeing the cars start and being some little distance off, thought, as the train was backing towards Baltimore, it would return, instead of which it did not,  So we were left behind, in a pretty fix, especially as we did not know the destination of our Regiment. We however, guessed they had gone to the Relay house, and the next thing for us, was to get there.  It was ten miles down the Railroad track, five of our lads footed it, myself and a comrade, got a ride in a Huckster's wagon, that was following the troops with wares. We started off and to make it worse, our driver took the wrong road, which made us feel rather suspicious, especially as we were in a strong secession county, Anne Arundel.  Was he playing treacherous? our hands went to our Revolvers; but if so, I had made up my mind he should be the first to suffer.  At last we struck the right road. the worst road I ever traveled over, being very hilly, and ankle deep in mud. The farmers of the surrounding country, hearing of the arrival of Northern troops, flocked out on the road, and we had quite a cavalcade of horsemen, and charlottears, which could easily have captured us, if they felt inclined, as there was only two of us, but most of them seemed pleased to see us, or at least, so they said, and shook us heartily by the hand and asked us to drink.  One would think it customary for them to carry liquor about with them, as they were well supplied.  

After some three hours, going ten or twelve miles, we arrived at the Relay, and felt greatly relieved when we came  in sight of a halting place.  They quietly took possession of this place, being a very important point, as it commands the road from Baltimore to Washington, and Harpur's Ferry. Every train is stopped and searched and supplies for the enemy captured. Earthworks and entrenchments are thrown up and artillery placed to command all approaches, so that it would take a strong force to dispossess us. We have had several night alarms, and had to turn out under arms as often as twice in one night. We have to sleep on our arms, and have not had our clothes off (but to change) since we left New York, part of the 8th has been to Baltimore, and met with a good reception.    W.D.

Vital Records - December 1856

 Oxford Times, December 3, 1856

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. David Evans to Miss Eliza F. Crandall, both of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  On the 28th ult. by the same, Mr. Charles S. Sheldon to Miss Ruth M. Rathbone, both of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult., by David Fisk, Esq., Mr. Sylvester Hurlbert to Miss Rebecca Ingraham, all of Oxford.

Married:  At Caton, Steuben Co. [NY], on the 16th ult., Mr. Allen B. Woodworth, formerly Student of Oxford Academy to Miss Etta Smith of the former place.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d ult., Mrs. Ruth Soles, aged 59 years.

Died:  In Sparta, Monroe Co., Wisconsin, on the 13th, inst. Elijah Winsor, formerly of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 41 years.

Died:  In Oswego [Oswego Co. NY], Nov. 14th, Caroline Mygatt [Bundy], daughter of Philo and M.A. Bundy, aged 7 years.  Carrie's sudden death will grieve many friends, for all loved her, who knew her earnest, thoughtful character and affectionate disposition.  Oswego Times

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 4, 1856

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult., by Rev. E. Hoag, Mr. James M. Sisson, of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Ruth A Gates of Norwich.

Married:  In Leicester, Wyoming Co [NY], on the 5th ult. by the Rev. Mr. Bellamy, Mr. W.D. Ranger, of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Martha M. Ranger, of the former place.

Died:  In German [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th ult., Mrs. Asenah Bronson, aged 73 years.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st inst., Nathan Webb, aged 84 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst. of constipation of the bowels, Mrs. Mary Knapp, aged 80 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th ult., Vidella [Winsor], daughter of Henry V. and Eliza Winsor, aged 8 months.

Oxford Times, December 10, 1856

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., by Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. James W. Thompson of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Mary E. Root of Oxford.

Died:  Suddenly, at Phillipsville, Allegany Co., N.Y., on the 26th ult., Rev. Leverett Bush, D.D., of disease of the heart.  Dr. Bush was for twenty-three years the loved and honored Rector of St. Paul's Church in this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], and the intelligence of his sudden demise, will be received by his former parishioners and many others with profound regret. Throughout his long continued ministry, he won universal regard and respect by his Christian urbanity and affectionate kindness to all who came within the sphere of his influence.  He was ever zealous in his official labors, and ardent in the cause of the Master whom he served. The Parish, under his care and guidance, was peaceful and prosperous, and when, at length, in consequence of failing health, he felt constrained to relinquish its charge, the regret was general, and he left only friends, when he departed from the scenes of his long and faithful toil.  Though Dr. Bush's health had for a series of years been impaired, he felt better than usual on the morning of his decease.  After his accustomed walk, and an hour's repose, he conversed with more than his wonted cheerfulness. Mrs. Bush left him for the discharge of some domestic affairs, and on returning after an absence of only ten minutes, she found him silent in death.  His attitude and appearance indicated that he died without a struggle, his face wearing the serene expression of peaceful slumber.  But the coffin'd sleep of the good and just, / Is a sure and blissful waking.

Died:  In Homer [Cortland Co., NY], Nov. 25th, Mrs. Damoris Robinson, wife of Philo Robinson, formerly of Sherburne, Chenango Co. [NY], aged 54 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on 1st inst., at the residence of John Shattuck, Esq., Mrs. Mary Knapp, aged 80 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 11, 1856

Married:  In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst., by Rev. H.W. Gilbert, Mr. Jame Adair of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Eliza Stuart, of the former place.

Married:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY] on the 4th inst., by Rev. H.W. Gilbert, Mr. Robert Keough, to Miss Mary Kinnier of this place [Greene, Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th ult., by Rev. J.D. Webster, Mr. Daniel Owen, of Newark [Wayne Co., NY] to Miss Eliza M. Alexander of Greene.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult., by Rev. A. McDougall, Mr. Thomas T. Steer, of Columbus [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Mary Foster, of the former place.

Married:  In Cortland [Cortland Co., NY], on the 20th ult., by Rev. A.S. Graves, Mr. Charles Bliven of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Sarah M. Allen of Willett [Cortland Co., NY].

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2th inst., after a lingering illness, Chas. M. [Sherman], son of Harvey Sherman, aged 20 years.

Died:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Mrs. Rebecca Evans, aged 25 years.

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult., George M. Williams, aged 38 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th ult., John [Gillman], son of Wm. and Mary Gillman, aged 2 years.

Oxford Times, December 17, 1856

Died:  At Farmington, LaCross Co., Wis., Mrs. Abigail Metcalf, widow of Luke Metcalf, a former resident of South Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 90 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 18, 1856

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst., by Rev. H. Doane, Mr. Harmon Wood, to Miss Edina Dickinson, both of that place.

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., by Rev. E. Hoag, Mr. Charles H. Loop, of South Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Olive E. Pangburn, of this place.

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., by Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. James W. Thompson, of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Mary E. Root, of the former place.

Married:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., by Rev. E.L. Benedict, Mr. Amos Green, of Lebanon, Mad. Co. [NY], to Miss Fidelia Lord, of the former place.

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th inst., Hannah Gould, wife of Samuel Gould, aged 64 years.

Died:  In East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., Miss Emily Safford, aged 80 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., Bridget Ryan, aged 24 years.

Died:  In Addison, Steuben Co. [NY], on the 25th ult. Mrs. Catharine Day, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], aged 88 years.

Oxford Times, December 24, 1856

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst., by Rev. J.G. Bartholomew, Mr. William W. Baker to Miss Lucretia M. Baker, both of Triangle, N.Y. [Broome Co.].

Married:  In Butternuts, Otsego Co. [NY], on the 17th inst., by Rev. Mr. Spinning, Mr. John M. Green of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Maria E. Townsend of the former place.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 25, 1856

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., by Rev. E. Hoag, John N. Gridley to Miss Judith A. Phetteplace, both of the above place.

Married:  In Plasterville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., by Rev. L. Wright, Morris Gardiner, of this place [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Hannah M. Coney, of the former place.

Died:  At New Ohio [Broome Co., NY], on the 20th inst., Violet [Watrous], daughter of Samuel Watrous, aged 6 years.

Oxford Times,  December 31, 1856

Amos G. Smith, a son of the late D.F. Smith, hotel keeper at East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], was suddenly killed, on the afternoon of Saturday last.  He was, with other boys, playing in a large shed, and while running about on the beams overhead about eight feet from the ground he hit his head against a rafter and fell to the ground breaking his neck.  He was about 20 years of age.  Chenango American.

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d inst., by Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. Alonzo Phetteplace to Miss Catharine Barber, both of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  also, at the same place and time, Mr. John A. Day of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Luthama A. Barker of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th inst. by Rev. H. Callahan, Mr. John R. Borden to Miss Almeda Aldrich both of Norwich.

Civil War Letter - October 1861

 Union News, Broome County, New York, October 17, 1861

Camp Dickinson, Near Fort Lyon, Alexandria, Va. Oct. 6, 1861

Friend B.:  I have another spare moment and will improve it by dropping a line to you.  We had a visit yesterday from a couple of your townsmen, Serg't Milton C. Cafferty and Mr. Elisha B. Ralyea, who informed me he had enlisted in the same company with Mr. Cafferty (one of the Lincoln Cavalry) as a farrier.  It did me good to see Elisha's familiar face down here in Virginia, and I almost fancied I was home again.  It was about 12 o'clock and I invited them to dinner and soon had my table spread in front of my tent (that is, we have a rough board nailed to the top of a couple of stakes which served as table) and we stood up to partake of a soldier's meal.  Our board was not very clean (as water at present is scarce), but judging from the quantity of provisions that soon vanished from sight, I think we all did justice to the meal.  Mr. Ralyea was the bearer of quite a number of letters and packages for the Union boys from friends at home, and made a few light hearts at least.  Shortly after dinner, they returned, however not without promising us another visit soon.

As the wire workers are flocking to Washington (though but few have yet crossed the Potomac) either to court favor for themselves or friends in the coming elections, a word or two from your friend, Blockhead, on the subject may or may not be out of place.

It seems (judging from what I hear from various sources) that the Democratic party of your State is divided into three distinct classes.  First, those who use all the means and influence they can command in sustaining the president and Cabinet.  Second, a class that have pretended peace proclivities and the third the out and out "secesh."  Now as to the first class (among whom I see many familiar and distinguished names) they should be given the reserved seats, as they have already declared by their acts that they belong to the only [-?-] party (that is the Union party).  All old names should be forgotten, and a ticket selected from among Union men, whatever name they formerly bore, and such a ticket should be sustained by every Union man.  One man that I shall support will be Daniel S. Dickinson. 

Now, as to the second class, the peace croakers, they cannot expect much [-?-] at my hands.  Men who, as a class, put on a long face, and talk of the sacrifice of human life, and all that sort of thing, when they hear of our success.  In severe cases, I'd apply the [-?-] of the vegetable vulgarly known as hemp, while for milder cases perhaps a liberal application of tar and feathers would check the disease.

I would suggest that a black list be made in every Township and the names of the men who come under either of the last two classes be therein registered for future use, and never (during their natural lives) permit them to hold any office in the gift of the people.

Keep secession out of power and it will die of old age in its youth.  My sheet is full and I'll stop for the present.   Blockhead.

Vital Records - November 1856

 Oxford Times, November 5, 1856

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th ult., by The Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. Andrew B. Olds, to Miss Caroline M. Holmes, all of Oxford.

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on 29th ult., by Rev. W. Bixby, Mr. Isaac H. Rathburn of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Adelia Rathburn of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], Oct. 30th, by Rev. E. Baldwin, Mr. Wm. H. Chamberlin of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss M.E. S. Larabee of Dorset, Ohio.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY] on the 31st ult., Eliza A. [Locke], wife of Mr. Charles F.T. Locke, aged 38 years.

Died:  in this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th inst., Mr. William E. Tyrrell, aged 29 years.

Died:  In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 31st ult., Mrs. Marilla Furguson.

Died:  At Toledo, Ohio, Oct. 26th, Mary E. Van Pelt, of consumption, aged 23 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, November 6, 1856

Married:  in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult. by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Isaac A. Simpson to Sally F. Moore, all of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th inst., Clara [Willcox], wife of Eli Willcox, aged 46 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th inst., Mr. William E. Tyrrell, aged 28 years.

Oxford Times, November 12, 1856

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. William Baker of Triangle [Broome Co., NY] to Miss Melissa R. Hunt of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., by the Rev. W. Bixby, Mr. Clark H. Wood, to Anna W. Felter, all of Oxford.

Died:  At Manchester, Boon Co., Ill. Oct. 20th, 1856, Mr. David Willson, aged 65 years.  Mr. Willson's family resided in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] about thirty years, where he left many warm friends who remember him affectionately.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, November 13, 1856

Married:  in Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], on the 30th ult., by Rev. H. Doane, Mr. Orange Spencer, to Miss Margaret DeForest, both of the above place.

Married:  Also by the same, at the same time and place, Mr. Alfred DeForest of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY] to Miss Susan Foote, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  Suddenly, on the 7th inst. at Peterboro, Madison Co., [NY], of disease of the heart, George Klinck, aged 67 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., of congestion of the brain, Mrs. Celia . Thompson, aged 57 years.

Oxford Times, November 19, 1856

Died:  In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th, Maryette M. [Doty] daughter of Charles W. and Eunice M. Doty, aged 11 months.

Died:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 3rd, Mrs. Eunice Ford, aged 67 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, November 20, 1856

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst., by Rev. J. Abercrombie, Mr.  Henry H. Babcock, of Homer, Cortland Co. [NY], to Miss M. Frank Moore, of Norwich.

Married:  In Croton, Delaware Co. [NY], on the 6th inst., by Rev. W. Corey, Mr. Delos Pierce, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss S.J. Satterla, of Franklin [Delaware Co., NY].

Married:  At the residence of the bride's father in Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], on Thursday, Nov. 6th by the Rev. E. Benedict, Mr. Nathan R. Baldwin, of German [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Martha [Warner], daughter of Mr Ashel Warner.

Married:  At Wellsburg, N.Y. [Chemung Co.] on the 6th inst., by Rev. M. Murdock of Elmira, Mr. William W. Pardee of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Susie M. Wells of the former place.

Died:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] on the 5th inst., Mrs. Fanny [Harris], relict of the late Levi Harris aged 70 years.

Died:  In New York, on the 9th inst., Miss Kitty H. [Randall], second daughter of S.S. Randall, Esq., aged 18 years.

Died:  in Masonville, Delaware Co. [NY], on the 14th inst., Mrs. Marian Robbins, aged 75 years.

Oxford Times, November 26, 1856

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango co., NY], on the 7th inst., John [Gillman], son of Wm. and Mary Gillman, aged 2 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, November 27, 1856

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst., by Rev. L. Wright, Mr. Seth B. Chapin to Miss Helen French, both of Norwich.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th inst., by Rev. A. Burlingame, Mr. Charles H. Race to Miss Mary Abbott, all of the above place.

Married:  In Preston [Chenango Co.., NY], on the 6th inst., by Rev. E. Benedict, Mr. Nathan R. Baldwin of German [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Martha Warner, daughter of Ashel Warner, of the former place.

Married:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st inst. by Rev. Benj. Shove, Mr Wm. R. Cline to Miss Edna Hilliard both of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 31st ult. Mrs. Eunice F. Clark, aged 97 years 7 months and 19 days.

Died:  In Sparta, Monroe Co., Wisconsin, on the 18th inst., Elijah Winsor, formerly of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 41 years. 

Chenango American, Greene, NY, November 6, 1856

We learn from the Norwich Reporter, of the 6th inst., the following account of a murder in Sherburne [Chenango co., NY].

Mr. John Kelly of Sherburne was committed to jail last night upon a charge of murdering James Kelly, his brother. As represented to us, the brothers, resided in Sherburne, and on Monday, the 4th instant, the deceased and the wife of the prisoner were in a quarrel at the prisoner's house. The prisoner took a clothes pounder and beat James until he broke it. The prisoner then procured an axe with which he struck James several blows and beat in his skull.  When James was discovered by the neighbors, he lay upon the ground outside the house.  He was taken into the chamber where he died on Tuesday, the prisoner not going near him. After a full examination of the case yesterday by Justice Briggs, John was committed to prison to answer the charge of murder.  He is 58 years of age and the deceased was four years older.  Both are Irish. the prisoner, on entering the jail found one of his sons, a lad 12 years of age, confined there upon a charge of burglary and theft.

Civil War Letter - from Zeke Slow, October, 1861

 Union News, Broome County, New York, October 17, 1861

Camp Dickinson, Alexandria, Va., Oct. 8th, 1861

Mr. Benedict:  I have been to visit the oldest city but one in Virginia!  Last Monday, "Reuben" and I, by a singular streak of fortune, got a pass.  "Reuben" is my roommate and a good fellow is "Reuben."  Well Reuben and I, after a walk of ten miles (or less) entered the city of Alexandria, said city, situated on the Western bank of the Potomac, and which according to History, in 1795, "posseseth ye large population of 5,190 souls."  I was astonished at the grandeur of the architecture displayed in the most ancient of the buildings, and it was as much as I was able to do to persuade myself that I was not in Corinth or Rome itself.  Here was a large mausoleum, high in its proportions which I judged, could be nothing more nor less than an amphitheater.  I felt perfectly sure it was so, and concluded I would ask the permission of a grand looking functionary at the door the privilege of entering.  Did so, and was informed there were plenty of negros there without me.  Such language astonished me, and I tried to reason him into the belief that "all men were created equal," and that according to Hoyle, or somebody else, I had as much right to enter as the King of Greece himself!  Man in doorway laughed, and wanted to know if I had the "dockiment."  Couldn't for the life of me tell what he meant, and so answered in the negative.  Man in doorway said something about "fixing mo" and bawled out "Sergeant of the Guard, No. 1."  Remembered to have heard such a cry as that between guards at Camp, and concluded I had better be somewhere else.  Poked "Reuben" in the ribs and suggested the idea of buying some candy at a stand near by.  Man in doorway aimed gun at me, and told me to halt.  Sergeant of the Guard came up, and wanted to know what was up!  Told him I wished to explore ancient architecture, and man in doorway had objected.  S. of G. seemed puzzled at first, and then wanted to know if I had a pass?  Showed him that and he told us to pass on. Asked him what building that was, and was told it was the "slave pen," where they kept disobedient soldiers.  Felt cheap and wished I'd never come to war.

Downtown saw a building like unto the other, full of men.  Asked Guard if that wasn't a slave pen too?  Guard looked savage, and told me it was the Marshall House.  Had heard of the place before, and was afraid perhaps Jackson's or Ellsworth's ghost might show itself.  (P.S. My great-great-grandfather said he seen a ghost once, and I guess the disease "rune in the family.")  Saw a lot of folks in the second story window of a big house, and thought I'd go up there and see what was up, did so, and was told I was in Green's Daguerrean Rooms.  Had heard of that place, and told Green he might take me, provided he did not take me to the slave pen.  Green, put my head against a "thing.", and told me to look without winking  Tried the operation; but not liking it rubbed my eyes. Green took a box from a box (I had been looking at the biggest box) and went into a dark room.  Presently returned with the satisfactory information, that I had copied on plate seven heads and thirteen hands.  Thought he was joking, but said nothing.  Green set me in a chair, and told me to look again, and not move.  Tried it without winking, but couldn't make out and Green showed me plate no. 2 and asked opinion of it. Told him it looked some like a Baboon I had seen in a caravan tent up in York State. Green laughed, and told me it was myself.  Wanted to hit him; but didn't dare to 'cause I saw he had a powerful big fist.  After trial No. 6, Green got mad, and said something about losing money.  Didn't know but what somebody had picked his pocket, and ventured to ask him if it wasn't so. Green threatened to kick me if I didn't leave, and as I didn't want him to exert himself, I left.  Told "Reuben" Alexandria was a "mighty fine place," and I intended marrying here after war was over.  Next went to some other place, and told old lady to get me something to eat.  Old lady was tickled, and fried me one egg, and a piece of ham. Swallowed 'em in double quick and asked old lady how much I owed her,  Was told, after much calculating on her part, that I was a debtor for the sum of 25 cents.  Hunted in pocket book and found two ten cent pieces, and 3 pennies. Asked old lady if that wouldn't do and told her I hadn't another cent.  Old lady got madder than Green, the Daguerrean, and threatened to hand me over to the guard. Begged her on my knees not to do so cruel a thing and she let me go. Found "Reuben" in Green's Daguerrean Room, and, as I felt sick, told him I wanted to go home.  He consented to go with me and after being striped by every guard on our way, we reached camp.  Haven't got over being sick yet and as long as we stay in the vicinity of Alexandria don't intend to.  Bull Run is preferable to going a sight seeing in Alexandra.  I might talk of other hair breath escapes that happened to me while there if I chose, but I don't chose.  Love to everybody but Daguerreians and old women.

Zeke Slow

Vital Records - October 1856

 Oxford Times, October 1, 1856

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th ult., by the Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Austin Hamilton to Miss Polly G. Smith, all of Oxford.

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], 24th ult., by Rev. W. Bixby, Mr. James E. Brooks of Oxford, to Miss Isabella S. Farrand of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY].

Died:  In Prarie Du Chien, Wis., Aug. 15th, John Cary [Bradley], infant son of E.A. and H.M. Bradley.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 2, 1856

Married:  In Bridgewater, Oneida Co. [NY], on the morning of the 23d ult. by Rev. Mr. Cutter, Mr. G.M. Cole, of Clinton [Oneida Co., NY], to Miss M. Eliza Denison, of the former place.

Married:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], by Rev. E.D. Thurston, Mr. Cyrus W. Hamilton, of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Mary  Jane Dunning of the former place.

Died:  In Candis, N.H., on the 28th inst., Moses S. Emerson, Esq., of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], aged 51 years.

Died: In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY]  on the 30th ult., Mrs. Laura [Cushman], wife of Mr. Ugcnior Cushman, aged 51 years.  Most sudden and startling is the bereaving Providence embraced in this record.  But a few days since, this departed friend was among us in the seeming enjoyment of wonted health and it is most difficult to realize that she is gone.  The work of disease was indeed brief and rapid and compete.  Among the sad remembrances of their fearful bereavement is the fact that she was not conscious during the last two days of lingering life.  But her character in all the endearing relationships of life was too well [-?-] own to require the [-?-] of death bed [-?-] that she  was very ready to depart.  For many years she had been a communicant of the church to which her affections strongly clung, and she was a simple hearted, true and faithful disciple of her Lord and Saviour, kind and affectionate in the domestic circle, faithful and devoted in her friendships, beloved by many who so well knew her character and feel acutely her loss. There are features of this dark dispensation that make it gloomy to contemplate. A husband mourns the loss of a beloved and devoted wife.  Children just at the age to need a mother's counsel and care are stricken with orphanage.  An aged mother who was in a few days to make this departed daughter's house her abiding home during the remainder of her pilgrimage, is made most touchingly to feel her desolation and bereavement.  "But God's ways are not as our ways."  We have but to bow before Him and say, "thy will be done."  Among those who "through the chances and changes of life" will also miss her that is gone, are the sick and the needy. She was ever ready to minister as far as her power extended to those who need the kindly offices which these conditions and relations demand.  But she was too well known in our midst during a residence of many years to require extended notice here and her virtues are written imperfectly with the pen. They are traced more vividly and abidingly on the tender tablet of the heart  "Oh tis well with her; but who can tell, what the future, thick robed in darkness, may bring to us."

Oxford Times, October 8, 1856

Died:  In Preston, on the 24th ult., Mr. Asa Sheldon, aged 70 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on 22d ult., Col. Zadock Adams, of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], aged 76 years.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on 2d inst., Rosina T. Lamb, aged 15 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 9, 1856

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., Diana A. [Dibble] wife of Roderick R. Dibble, aged 26 years.

Oxford Times, October 15, 1856

Married:  In Poughkeepsie, Oct. 9th, in the first Dutch Reformed Church, by A. Mann, D.D., Mr. Augustus Cole of Oconto, Wisconsin, to Miss Frances M. Davis of Poughkeepsie [Dutchess Co., NY].

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., nY], on the 7th inst., Mr. Stephen Turner, aged 54 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 16, 1856

Married:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst. by Rv. E.D. Thurston, Jonathan C. Jones, of German [Chenango Co., NY] to Lucinda F. Emerson, of the former place.

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst., by Rev. E.D. Thurston, Anthony H. Lloyd, of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], to Jenette White, of Greene.

Married:  In Clarkville, Madison Co. [NY], on the 12th inst. by Rev. Eli S. Bailey, Mr. Paul Cheesebro, of  Leonardsville, N.Y. [Madison Co.], to Miss E. Jane Denison, of the former place.

Died:  In Willet [Cortland Co., NY], o the 18th inst., Parley Pember, aged 59 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 23, 1856

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d inst., by Rev. H.W. Gilbert, Mr. Lucius T. Darby, and Mrs. Mary S. Maynard.

Married:  At Morris, Otsego Co. [NY], on the 20th inst., by the Rev. Lyman Fisher, Alfred Borden, to Caroline Wiswell, both of South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst. by Rev. J. Chamberlin, Rufus Wells, to Eliza Tanner, both of Norwich.

Married:  In St. Peter's Church, Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst. by Rev. John Bailey, Thomas Evans, of Wilmington, N.C. to Addie Ford, of the former place.

Married:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] on the 5th inst. by Rev. S.A. Douglas, Charles J. Biggs, to Cynthia E. Wilbur.

Married:  Also, on the 16th inst. by the same, Abner W. Burlingame to Hannah E. Gage, all of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst., by G.W. Edwards, Esq., John P. Taylor to Losetta Lant, all of Lebanon, Madison Co. [NY].

Married:  In German [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., by G.H. Livermore, Esq., James Allen of Willet, Cortland Co. [NY] to Julia A Storing, daughter of  Hon. Adam Storing, of the above place.

Married:  In Cincinnatus, Cortland Co. [NY], on the 14th inst., by Rev. T.D. Wires, Levi Randall to Adelia L. Eddy, daughter of George W. Eddy, Esq., of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on the 14th inst., at the residence of Lewis Seymour, Esq., by Rev. Amos B. Beach, Lorenzo Seymour of Chicago (Ill), to Frances Seymour, of the former place.

Died:  In Cooperstown [Otsego Co., NY] on Thursday, the 2d inst., Cora Ann [Hewes], daughter of Patrick Hewes, aged 25 years.

 Oxford Times, October 29, 1856

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th inst., by the Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. James Palmer of Oxford to Miss Lucinda Ingram of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th inst., by the Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Isaac A. Simpson to Miss Sally F. Moore, all of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 20th, by Rev. J.B. Hoyt, Mr. Nathaniel V. Eastwood to Miss Mary Ann [Jossleyn], daughter of Mr. Charles Jossleyn, all of Coventry.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th inst., Clara [Willcox], wife of Mr. Eli Willcox, aged 46 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 30, 1856

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] Oct. 20th, by Rev. A.G. Burlingame, C.G. Whitcomb, to Betsey A. Church, both of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], Oct. 22d, by Rev. Chas. Stritt, Alonzo Scarritt, to Avis A. Card, both of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Lebanon, Madison county [NY], Oct. 21st, at the residence of O.B. Gilbert, by the Rev. Bela Palmer, Geo. P. Avery to Cornelia R. Pratt, both of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., Minnie C. [Tubbs], daughter of Moses Tubbs, aged 11 months and 3 days.

D.M. Holdredge, of Bainbridge, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY] was taken very singularly ill at the Girard House, New York, where he was stopping.  He fell asleep on Wednesday night and has not since awoke, though electricity and other stimulants have been applied.  It is thought there is an effusion of blood in the brain.  P.S.  He died on Sunday the 19th int. His remains were brought home for burial.