Obituaries (April 18)

David W. Pettis

Chenango American, December 15, 1864

Soldier's Burial:  The body of David W. Pettis, son of Ralph Pettis, of this village, a soldier in the 114th Reg., who died in hospital some weeks since, was brought to this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY] for interment on Tuesday last.  Hs remains were escorted to their last resting place, by Ocean Fire Co., of which he was a member, and a concourse of citizens.  A funeral sermon was preached at the Congregational church by Rev. H. Garlick.

Hannah Dunn

Died March 4, 1934, Rochester, NY

Mrs. Hannah Dunn,  wife of Homer Dunn and a former resident of Crandall street, died in the Genesee Hospital, Rochester, Saturday night after an illness of several weeks. Besides her husband, Mrs. Dunn is survived by a son, Andrew Horton of Rome, and two daughters, Nelsie Horton and Mrs. C.H. Dibble, and one granddaughter, Una Wheeler, all of Rochester.  Mrs. Dunn had made her home since last October with her daughter, Mrs. Dibble.  The body was brought to Port Crane [Broome Co., NY] for burial, funeral services being held in that place Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock.

Mary A. Thurston Duroe - Died February 1, 1928

Jane Duroe - Died January 31, 1928

Norwich, NY

Falling a victim to the same disease which caused the death of her daughter, Miss Jane Duroe, less than 24 hours before, Mrs. Mary A. Thurston Duroe succumbed to an attack of septic pneumonia at 4 o'clock Wednesday afternoon at the family home, 89 North Broad street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].  Still another member of the family, Miss Eliza Duroe, is ill with the same disease at the Norwich Memorial hospital.  A double funeral service will be held for mother and daughter at the Breese funeral chapel at 1:30 Friday afternoon, Rev. D.G. DeBoer officiating.  Interment of both bodies will be made in the family plot in Norwich Quarter cemetery.  Mrs. Duroe had been ill with pneumonia about two weeks while her deceased daughter was stricken just a week ago. The elder woman who passed her 80th birthday a few months ago, was born near Morris [Otsego Co., NY].  After her marriage to Collingwood Duroe the family moved to a farm in Norwich quarter on the South New Berlin road, where Mr. Duroe became one of the leading farmers in that community.  The home was widely known for its hospitality.  Twenty years ago they moved to a larger farm on Great Brook in the town of New Berlin where Mr. Duroe died 10 years ago.  Three years ago the remaining members of the family returned to Norwich and bought the home on North Broad street.  Besides the daughter ill in the hospital, another daughter, Miss Ruth H. Duroe, resides at home; a son, Vernon Duroe, is a teacher in Brooklyn; and Francis Duroe is a farmer near Morris.  Nowich Sun, 2nd

Dr. Earl A. Linger

Died December 22, 1935

The following is taken from a Wisconsin paper:  Dr. Earl A. Linger, 47, prominent Oconto physician, died in a Green Bay hospital at 5:40 Sunday morning of pneumonia.  Dr. linger was taken ill four weeks ago in Oconto and was taken to the Oconto hospital.  Dec. 12 he was remove to St. Vincent hospital here.  Born in Norwich, N.Y. [Chenango Co.] Jan. 18, 1888, he was graduated from the University of Nebraska and later Rush Medical College Chicago. After serving two years' internship in St. Luke's hospital, Chicago, he went to Rockland, Mich., where he practiced medicine for three years.  During the war he was associated with Dr. I.E. Levitas of Green Bay, at Camp Custer, Battle Creek, Mich., where he was first lieutenant in the medical corps.  in 1919, after the war, he went to Oconto, where he had practiced medicine since. A prominent doctor in Oconto, he was a member of the American Medical Association, Wisconsin Medical Association, and the Oconto County Medical Association, in addition to being a member of the Kiwanis club, of which he was trustee in 1925, American Legion, and Masonic Order.  he was a 32nd degree Mason, and past commander of the Oconto post of the American Legion.  He was also City Health officer there for the past two years, president of the Oconto Golf club for six years, promoter and manager of the Ocoto City basketball team in 1923 and 1928, Commander of the Oconto Commandery, Knights Templar in 1930, and prominent in the Oconto hospital activities. Twenty years ago he was married to Miss Faye Duncan in Oconto, who survives him, together with one son, Dean, a student at Carleton college, Northfield, Minn., his parents, A.M. Linger, Vega, Tex, and Mrs. Jessie Linger, Omaha; two sisters, May and Bertha, Omaha, and one brother, Louis, Vega. The body was taken to the MacQueen Funeral home, Oconto, and later removed to the residence at 1335 Main street.  Funeral services will be conducted at 2 o'clock tomorrow afternoon in the Oconto Presbyterian church by the Rev. S.H. Lloyd and the Oconto Masonic lodge.  Military honors will be accorded by an escort and firing squad.

Death Notices

Chenango American, October 27, 1864

In Strasburgh, Va., on the 10th inst., Mr. Orrin O. Wells, of Co. C, 8th N.Y. Cavalry, aged 46 years.

In Hospital, at Winchester, Va., from wounds received in the battle at the above place, Frank M. Skillman, of Co. E, 114th Regiment N.Y. Vols., son of Joseph Skillman, of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], aged 23 years.  In the death of this young man the regiment, the country and his friends have sustained no common loss. The former a brave and ever faithful soldier, the latter a kind, true and reliable friend.  He will not be forgotten.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st inst., Mary White, relict of Jeremiah White, aged 58 years.

In Hamton Hospital, Va., of chronic Diarrha, Mr. Samuel Manworing, of Co. E, 89th N.Y.S.V.

In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst., Miss Ellen J. Herrick, aged 18 years.

At Iowa Falls, on the 7th inst., Mrs. Elizabeth Raymond, wife of Wm. A. Raymond, aged 37 years.

In New Berlin [Chenango co., NY], on the 17th inst., Mrs. Jennette Warner, wife of George Warner, aged 21 years 7 months.

The Fake Wedding - May 1938

DuMond - Kenyon

Chenango Telegraph, May 27, 1938

Miss Eleanor Elizabeth Kenyon of North Pitcher and Gerald George Dumond of Willett, N.Y., were married at the parsonage by the Rev. D.G. DeBoer Monday night at eight o'clock.  The only attendants were Margaret Verreau and James Willcox of Cortland.

Trial of Mixup Marriage Case Opens in County Court

Chenango Telegraph, November 22, 1938

After Judge Hubert L. Brown, had denied defense motions for separate trials, Norwich's famous mixup marriage case was commenced in county court late Monday morning with the long and tedious task of selecting a jury.  That it will not be easy to find men and women acceptable to both prosecution and defense was indicated by the line of questions asked by the opposing lawyers. when court took a recess for the noon hour only three, two men and one woman were deemed as satisfactory.

The three defendants, Burton Livermore, 26, former bus driver; Miss Marguerite D. Verreau and Miss Eleanor E. Kenyon, both 19, are jointly indicted for falsely impersonating another in a marriage ceremony in violation of section 928 subdivision one of the penal law.  It is alleged Miss Vereau and Livermore were married in this city [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] May 23, last, using a license issued to Miss Kenyon and Gerald George DeMond of Willett, and that Miss Kenyon was a witness to the ceremony.

Burton Livermore

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Norwich Sun, November 22, 1938

Considerable headway was made in county court Tuesday morning at the trial of Norwich's mixup marriage case.  Less than an hour after judge Hubert L. Brown pounded the gavel for resuming the trial the remainder of the jury was chosen. Before the noon adjournment District Attorney Lester R Mosher had called two of the prosecution's most important witnesses, Gerald George DeMond, complainant, and James Wilcox, one of the witnesses to the false ceremony performed in this city May 23, last, when Burton Livermore and Miss Marguerite Verreau went through a marriage ceremony, had completed their testimony.  Livermore, Miss Verreau and Miss Eleanor Kenyon are being tried jointly for violating section 928 of the penal law in impersonating another in a marriage ceremony in this city.

Marguerite Verreau

DeMond, 22-year-old senior at the East Carolina Teachers College, Greenville, N.C., was the first witness called after the opening statements of counsel to the jury. The young student testified he first met Miss Eleanor Kenyon, one of the three defendants charged with impersonating another in a marriage ceremony, in June 1937.  They decided to get married after several weeks and on August 31, 1937, the witness said they obtained a marriage license at the town clerk's office in Pitcher where Miss Kenyon lived.  At that time Miss Kenyon was not of age, but her parents gave their consent in writing to the wedding.  He was shown a certified copy of the marriage license by Mr. Mosher.  For some reason the marriage license was never used by DeMond and Miss Kenyon, but the latter obtained possession of it and DeMond returned to his school duties early in September of that year.  He told District Attorney Mosher that he first learned on June 4, of this year, of his marriage.  This was the date he returned home from school for his summer vacation.  His parents were first to inform him of the reported marriage between himself and Miss Kenyon.  He saw newspaper accounts of the wedding, came to this city where he visited Rev. D.G. DeBoer, the clergyman who performed the ceremony between Livermore and Miss Verreau and then complained to the district attorney.

Mr. DeMond was first cross examined by former City Judge Theodore C. Bonney, counsel for Miss Verreau.  He said he was majoring in history at college and was preparing to become a teacher with an A.B. degree.  He said he did not know Miss Verreau until yesterday.  He had seen Livermore at the hearing prior to the time the three defendants were held for action of the grand jury.  To Attorney J. Richard Marshall, counsel for Livermore, DeMond said he attended a dance on the night of his return home from school last June and received congratulations on his marriage from friends who inquired where his wife was.  He lodged his complaint with District Attorney Mosher the day after his return home.

Attorney Edwin Verreau, counsel for Miss Kenyon and brother of Miss Verreau, tried to prove there was a civil action pending between the parties, but an objection by the district attorney blocked this procedure.  Mr. Verreau wanted to show how DeMond claimed to be injured by the using of the marriage license. the lawyer offered to produce a copy of the suit brought by Miss Kenyon and the answer filed by Demond, but this was not allowed by the court.

James Wilcox, next to take the stand, gave his age as 24 years and occupation bus driver.  He now resides in Rochester, but was in Cortland on May 23 last.  He had known Livermore six years, Miss Verreau four years and Miss Kenyon only since May 23 last.  Wilcox recalled the afternoon of May 23 with much detail under the guidance of Mr. Mosher. The three defendants and himself visited the Tavern in Cortland that afternoon, had several drinks together. At the first meeting about noon in the restaurant Miss Kenyon was not present but another girl, Miss Wandell, was in the company.  He told of the quartet buying some groceries, quart of gin and going to Miss Wandell's apartment where more drinks were had.  He declared that Miss Verreau, Livermore and himself did most of the drinking.  Later they left the Wandell rooms to take Miss Verreau to work in the Hollywood restaurant in Cortland. This was about four p.m. on the afternoon of May 23.  Enroute they met Miss Kenyon on the street and all then went to the King Cole, another Cortland restaurant. They remained there an hour or two and did not take Miss Verreau to work.  More drinking followed, said the witness, but prior to the stay at the King Cole he said the subject of marriage was discussed.  He asserted that Miss Verreau and Livermore had expressed a desire to be married.  "Don't be foolish," he said Miss Wandell had advised the parties.  Wilcox also added his bit of advice by informing the couple they could not be married without a license and that under the law three days were required between the date of the issuance of the license and the date of the wedding.

About this time, the witness asserted Miss Kenyon said she had a license.  The question was then discussed among the parties about using this license.  Miss Kenyon at first objected to giving Livermore and Miss Verreau the license fearing, she said, that it would get Gerald DeMond into trouble.  Miss Kenyon was finally persuaded to obtain the license. The party left Cortland at 6 p.m. that day for Norwich, all riding in the Wilcox car.  Miss Kenyon rode with Wilcox and Miss Verreau and Livermore occupied the rear seat of the machine.  Enroute to Norwich the party stopped at a farm home in North Pharsalia, where Miss Kenyon procured the license.  On the ride to this city the quartet discussed whether it would be practical to get married on those conditions and whether to go to the home of a justice of the peace or a minister.

Eleanor Kenyon

Arriving in Norwich the party met Pete Levee on the street, Mr. Wilcox said, and he directed them to the home of Rev. D.G. DeBoer on South Broad street.  Livermore informed the clergyman a couple desire to get married. The parties were all introduced to Mr. DeBoer and the minister asked the usual preliminary questions. Livermore presented himself as DeMond, Miss Kenyon was introduced as Miss Verreau, and Miss Verreau as Miss Kenyon.  Wilcox maintained his own identity.  Livermore produced the marriage license from his pocket and the ceremony was performed, with Mr. Wilcox signing as a witness and Miss Kenyon signing the name of Miss Verreau.  The witness said that Mr. DeBoer, noticing the date of the license and that it had been held so long, inquired about the delay.  He said that Livermore replied that he got laid off from a milk plant at which he was working and was unable to get married at that time, but that he now had a job with a bus company and could now see his way clear to get married.  Mr. DeBoer informed the parties that he would attend to having the marriage notice printed in the Norwich newspapers but that they would have to look after the matter in the Cortland papers for publication.

Leaving the home of the cle3rgyman all then went to the office of Miss Verreau's brother, but he was not at home. They then drove back to McGraw and Cortland, leaving Miss Kenyon at the Tavern. Miss Verreau, Livermore and himself went to the Palm Garden, another Cortland restaurant, where all remained until 1 o'clock the next morning.  The next morning Wilcox said he met Livermore.  the latter remarked  "Do you realize what kind of a mess I am in." Wilcox said Livermore also told him that his landlady had inquired about his bringing a woman into his room for the night, and that Livermore told the woman that it was all right "I am married to Margaret."

After a couple of hours Livermore, Wilcox and the two girls started to come to Norwich to see if there was anyway they could get out of their trouble.  "We had a flat tire about five or six miles from Norwich," said the witness and then returned to Cortland.  "We never did reach Norwich," said Wilcox. The witness said that he had never been promised any immunity by the district attorney in the case.  Wilcox is not under indictment having made a signed statement to the authorities.
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Chenango Telegraph, November 25, 1938

A Chenango County jury of 10 men and two women acquitted Miss Eleanor Kenyon, Miss Marguerite Verreau and Burton Livermore at 4:55 Wednesday afternoon of charges of impersonating another in a marriage ceremony performed here last May. The jury came into court at 4 o'clock and asked for instructions as to intent to injury and intent to commit a crime, after which they resumed their deliberations and within an hour returned a verdict of not guilty.  The trio had faced a possible maximum sentence of 10 years each in state prison if convicted.  District Attorney Lester R. Mosher, who appeared for the prosecution unaided, said the case was the first of its kind tried in his state since enactment of the law.

Livermore and Miss Verreau were accused of going through a marriage ceremony in Norwich in May of this year using a license issued to Miss Kenyon and Gerald George DeMond.  Miss Kenyon was charged with being a witness at the ceremony.  The license used by the couple was procured by Miss Kenyon and DeMond from the town clerk's office in Pitcher in August, 1937, but it was never used by them.  After DeMond reutrned to his school studies in Greenville, N.C. Miss Kenyon, who held possession of the license, is alleged to have given it to Miss Verreau and Livermore.  The morning after the ceremony, Livermore and Miss Verreau parted company and have never lived together as man and wife.

At the trial of the case Judge Hubert L. Brown presided, while Richard Marshall appeared as counsel for Livermore, former City Judge Theodore C. Bonney for Miss Verreau and Edwin F. Verreau for Miss Kenyon.

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Jury Finding Wins Cheers at Norwich

A cheer arose from the spectators in the courtroom as Foreman Eaton reported the verdict to judge Brown.  Only once during their deliberations did the jury run in difficulty, and on that occasion they came back into the court for a detailed explanation on the subject of injury to George DuMond, to whom the license had originally been issued, and criminal intent upon the part of the defendants.  Judge Brown instructed the jurors that unless they found DuMond had been injured and that the defendants had a criminal intent they must acquit. Retiring, the jury apparently harkened to the testimony that Livermore and Miss Verreau went through the ceremony merely on a dare, using a license previously issued to DuMond and Miss Kenyon.

The marriage took place at Norwich May 23, and the following June 10 Livermore, responding to a knock on his Midland av. home, opened the door to find an officer awaiting him.  He was hustled off to Syracuse police headquarters and thence to Norwich.  Livermore and Miss Verreau were charged with impersonating others in a marriage ceremony performed by Rev. Dowie G. DeBoer, pastor of  the First Congregational Church at Norwich.  Miss Kenyon was indicted along with them, it being charged she procured the marriage license which Livermore and Miss Verreau used.  The license was issued Aug. 31, 1937.  It was a one-way trial, the defense not calling a single witness to refute any of the evidence offered by District Attorney Mosher.  Livermore and Miss Verreau parted company the morning after the ceremony and never lived together as man and wife.

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Mixup Marriage Taken off Books

Norwich:  The marriage of Miss Margaret D. Verreau of Marathon and Burton J. Livermore, former Syracuse bus driver, performed by the Rev. Dowie G. DeBoer in Norwich on May 23, was annulled by Supreme Court Justice Riley H Heath in his chambers at Ithaca yesterday. The marriage was performed on a license issued in the Town of Preston in August, 1937, for the marriage of Miss Eleanor Kenyon of Pitcher and Gerald DeMond of Willet and resulted in Livermore and the Misses Verreau and Kenyon being charged with a violation of the Penal Code of the state. They were tried before a jury at the last term of Chenango County Court and all three acquitted. The action on Saturday was uncontested on the part of Livermore.  Theodore C. Bonney of Norwich, who defended Miss Verreau in the criminal action presented the evidence for annulment yesterday.

Obituaries (April 16)

Dr. James H. Westcott

Died February 6, 1939, Utica, NY

Dr. James H. Westcott, former well known resident of this city [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], died at the Masonic Home in Utica [Oneida Co., NY] early Monday morning, aged about 93 years. The deceased had been a resident of the Masonic Home for the past nine years.  Dr. Westcott had practiced his profession in this city for a great many years.  Because of ill health and his advanced age he entered the Utica home.  He had been a member of Norwich lodge of Masons for many years. There survive three grandsons, James H. Westcott of Norwich, John of San Diego, California, and Lawrence Westcott of Durhamville.  The body will be brought to Norwich by the William Breese Company and it is likely that services will be held Wednesday afternoon at the Breese Funeral Home.

Services for the late Dr. James H. Westcott, long a resident of this city but who died at the Masonic Home in Utica, will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Breese Funeral Home, with Rev. L.S. Charters officiating. Burial will be made in Mt. Hope [Norwich]. The Masonic lodge will also conduct brief services at the funeral home Wednesday afternoon.

Frank Hervey Ellis

Chenango Telegraph, June 30, 1942

New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY]:  Funeral services for Frank Hervey Ellis whose death occurred Friday at his home, after a critical illness of four days, will be held Tuesday afternoon at 2:30 from his late home.  Rev. Clyde G. Truax, pastor of the Presbyterian Berean church will officiate. Burial will be made in the Huntington cemetery at Morris [Otsego Co., NY].  A well known and highly respected farmer, Mr. Ellis was born in the town of New Berlin, April 17, 1875, the son of Freeman and Angeline (Button) Ellis.  He was a lifelong resident of this community, residing the past 30 years in Pittsfield [Otsego Co., NY].  August 31, 1898 he was united in marriage with Delia M. Peck who survives with one daughter, Mrs. Milburn M. Davis of South Edmeston and one son, Raymond C. Ellis of Sherburne.  Surviving too is a brother, George W. Ellis of this village., also eight grandchildren.  Mr. Ellis was a member of the Methodist church.

Katherine  (McMahon) Welch

Chenango Telegraph, February 13, 1942

Mrs. Katherine M. Welch, 53, wife of Paul E. Welch, passed away at her home, R.D. 2, East Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] at 4:15 Wednesday afternoon.  The deceased had been in failing health for some time.  The end came peacefully, however, amid members of her immediate family.   Mrs. Welch was born in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], the daughter of Peter McMahon and Mary Bault McMahon, on Dec. 12, 1888.  She was untied in marriage with Paul E. Welch on Aug. 9, 1917, Rev. Edward R. Prendergast, then pastor of St. Paul's church, performing the ceremony. Besides her husband she leaves one daughter, Mrs. Thomas W. Ryan and two sons, Richard E. Welch and Gerald P. Welch, also a sister, Mrs. Stephen Flanagan of Preston and two brothers, John McMahon of Rome and Frank of Elmira.  Funeral services are to be held from the late home in East Norwich at 9:15 Saturday morning and at 10 o'clock in St. Paul's church, where a high mass of requiem will be celebrated by Rev. Charles M. Coveney. Burial will be made in the family plot in St. Paul's cemetery [Norwich]. Friends wishing to call at the late home may do so at any time.  Mrs. Welch was a devoted wife and mother.  Her loyalty to friends and her cheerful nature and many acts of kindness in befriending many will long be remembered by those who knew her.  Her Christian attributes and her devotion to church and home have left an impression of high regard among those who were privileged to know her.  She was a member of St. Paul's church, the Mothers' Club of the church and the League of Sacred Heart and was active in these organizations when health permitted.

Mae (Brown) Weaver

Died May 1, 1925, New Berlin, NY

Mrs. Weaver was born near South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY] and spent her girlhood days in New York State.  Later she moved with her parents to the State of Indiana where she met and married M.R. Weaver, March 28, 1900.  From Monticello, Indiana, Mr. and Mrs. Weaver moved to North Dakota where they lived for four years, going form there to the State of Oregon where Mr. Weaver entered the ministry, moving to Boise City, Idaho, where they took up the duties of their first charge, remaining for three years and then moving to Omaha, Neb., where they remained for ten years after which they came to New York State, locating with her parents Mr. and Mrs. C.S. Brown at Marathon where they supplied the Baptist church for three years and then came to South New Berlin.  Mrs. Weaver was a true helpmeet to her husband in his minister's labors.  Of a very retiring and modest nature, unselfish to the extreme, even to the extent of her own personal disadvantage; well balanced in judgment ,always looking for the best in people.  She had a strong winning personality, so that she always had a large host of friends, wherever she went. She was especially fond of children, and was an indefatigable worker among them, and always gathered large groups around her on every field in which she labored.  In her home and family life she was even more devoted than in her public life always mindful of every little detail that would add to the comfort of each member of the family outside of herself, and was one of those particularly gifted persons who could make a happy, cheerful and comfortable home no matter what the surroundings or how meager the materials.  In her religious life she was even more deeply devoted than in all others. A careful reader and student of the Bible, which she could readily transform into interesting narratives and stories by which she could hold the interest and attention of even the smallest child.  But in all her traits of character it can be truthfully said of her that she transformed more of her Christian faith into actual life and living than into verbal teaching, she lived more than she talked. In her last sickness she stood solid on the promises of God and up to her last consciousness was looking forward to her reward, and got sufficient glimpse of the future, that in trying to arouse her for the purpose of taking nourishment made her last statement in this life which was "Oh, I do not want to wake up."  The funeral was held Sunday, May 3rd when a large assemblage of people gathered at the Baptist church to pay to her their last tribute of respect.  It is less than three years since Mr. and Mra. Weaver came among us, but by her friendly manner, her kindly acts, and her noble Christian character she had endeared herself to all who knew her.  Long before the appointed hour the people began to arrive.  Members of Good Fellowship Sunday School class acted as ushers. Every seat in the auditorium, the gallery and the south room in the annex was filled and all were mourners. The flowers were many and beautiful consisting of a blanket, wreaths, a pillow, and anchor, a cross, flat pieces, and bouquets.  Rev. Galen B. Royer of Huntington, Penn., a close friend of Rev. and Mrs. Weaver, officiated and spoke words of comfort, help and sympathy. The choir sang, "Asleep in Jesus" and the orchestra, she so dearly loved, and in fulfillment of one of her last requests, softly played.  The trustees of the church acted as bearers and in the bright sunshine of a beautiful spring day the beloved dead was laid to rest in Riverside cemetery.  The sympathy of the entire community goes out to Mr. Weaver in his loneliness and sorrow and also to the parents.

Death Notices

Chenango American, October 13, 1864

At Castle Creek, Broome County, on the 11th inst., Judson V. [Boardman], son of Eli Boardman, of this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], aged 14 years, 10 months and 25 days.

In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst. at the residence of E. Shaw, Mrs. Ruth Ray, aged 83 years, 3 months and 17 days.

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co.. NY], on the 29th ult., Mr. Asa W. Rhodes, late of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 59 years.

In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., Mr. Clark Smith aged 82 years.

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., Miss Nancy Gilland, aged 17 years.

In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., Alfred B. Handy, aged 3 years and 7 months.

Letter from the 114th NY Infantry - October 1864

Letter from the 114th New York Infantry

Chenango American, November 10, 1864

Middletown, Va.
Oct. 21, 1864

We have had another great battle and another victory greater than both the others.  On the 19th, before daylight, the enemy attacked the 8th corps on our left--they came on them both front and rear having previously captured the pickets.  So sudden was the attack and the fact of the enemy being on the flank and rear, induced the said corps to give way with hardly any resistance. The 2d Division 19th corps; and 2d Brigade of our Division, were driven back and our right double quickened up on a knowl where we received a withering fire from front and rear and flank.  We lost some 13 killed and 60 or 70 wounded on this line, where we finally gave way; the enemy were within 20 rods of us and nearly in our rear.  I dodged behind a stone chimney to give them a few parting rounds, but I staid too long and was surrounded and taken prisoner.  I was hurried to the rear and marched with a squad of about 20, across Cedar Creek and joined a large body of our men (prisoners).  I found several of our Regiment--Capt. Underhill, Lieut. Thompson, and 10 or 12 men, none of Co. E.  On the way here the Rebels took my boots and hat, giving in exchange some worn out articles.  One of the guards rifled my pocket book, but there was nothing of consequence in it; some 40 cents in specie, five or six stamps, my steel pens, thread, needles, &c.

We lay here until nearly sundown, squads of our men continually coming in, until they had about 2000 of us.

The Rebels drove our men to Newtown some six miles, when Gen. Sheridan arrived, he having killed his splendid black horse riding from Winchester. The boys said he rode among them swinging his hat and very quickly brought order out of confusion, formed the lines and charged the Rebels.

We prisoners kept our ears wide open and several times thought the cannonading grew nearer. About an hour before sundown the stream of Rebel stragglers were coming back and about sundown we took up the line of march. Before we reached Strasburg, we looked back and could see the Rebel line of battle on the retreat. We were doubled quicked and the enemy's wagons, ambulances, some captured artillery and lots of stragglers, formed a gay sight (to us) hurrying to the rear. Visions of hard marches, Libby or Linchburg prisons, starvation, &c stared me in the face, and I determined to escape or get shot in the attempt.  Just as we got to the bridge near Fisher's Hill I slipped through the guard unperceived and joined some stragglers who were starting to cross the creek above the bridge.  My Reb. Hat and rubber blanket which I had slung over my shoulder Reb style, deceived them and I passed for a genuine Reb.  I hid along in the bushes laying low when anyone came along until I gained the woods about one mile from the road; I marched till about midnight and laid down and slept till daylight; the night was cool but I picked up a woolen blanket on the battle field and so kept pretty comfortable.  yesterday I marched most all day making a detour of nearly 20 miles to avoid the enemy, and finally reached the 6th corps pickets about dark.  I came to our old camp and staid last night and this morning our Regiment came back--they had been to Strasburg.  I was some glad to get back to old Co. E, for I know something about the fare our prisoners got, having been there before.

Sergt. Wm. W. Johnston and Wm. A. Fuller were killed, and Corps. Andrews, Geo. Fitch, Jas. Dennis, Theo. Cables, Chas. Pittsley and Sergt, Kendall, wounded; the last four slightly, Fitch received a flesh wound in thigh and is not dangerously wounded.  I had my cheek grazed by a ball which was the closest call I received.

The cavalry have pursued the enemy beyond Woodstock and are capturing them by thousands; there are 56 pieces of artillery out by Sheridan's headquarters in a line, and the cavalry today brought in 9 battle flags and 4500 prisoners. The enemy at first got about 20 pieces of cannon and quite a number of our wagons and ambulances.  Also a large quantity of tents, camp utensils, clothing, &c,but I hear the cavalry have taken the prisoners and wagons, &C, back.  Considerable of the artillery captured was new and just from Richmond.  If Jeff Davis has any more cannon to spare I hope he will send it to us.

John C. Stoughton
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From Adjutant General's Report - 114th NY Infantry
STOUGHTON, JOHN C.:  Age, 21 years. Enrolled, August 11, 1862 at Greene, to serve three years; mustered in as private, Co. E, August 13, 1862; promoted corporal, September 3, 1862; sergeant, February 1, 1863; captured in action, June 13, 1863, at Port Hudson, La.; recaptured with fort, no date; promoted first sergeant, October 19, 1864; wounded and captured in action, same date, at Cedar Creek, Va.; escaped, October 20, 1864; mustered in as first lieutenant, March 2, 1865; mustered out with company, June 8, 1865, at Washington, D.C.  Commissioned first lieutenant, March 23, 1865, with rank from march 2, 1865

Marriages (April 14)

Wild - Dyer

Married April 12, 1925, Mount Upton, NY

Married, Sunday afternoon, April 12, 1925, by Rev. Silvernail, in the Methodist parsonage, Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], James A. Wild, of this village and Miss Mina A. Dyer, of West Exeter, N.Y. [Otsego Co., NY].  They are now at home to their friends at their residence on North street, this village.  The […] joins other friends in extending our congratulations.

Swenson - Webster

Married January 9, 1937

Miss Dora Webster and Fred Swenson of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] were united in marriage by the Rev. Raymond Lawrence of Sherburne on Saturday evening, January 9th. they were attended by Mr. and Mrs. Robert Cole. They will live in South Edmeston.

Wild - Phelps

Married June 30, 1925, Sidney, NY

At high noon, Tuesday, 30th inst., occurred at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Fred A. Phelps, River street, a marriage of much social interest in which two of our highly esteemed young people, Mr. Harvey Luzerne Wild and Miss Frederica Mae Phelps, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred A. Phelps were united in the holy bonds of matrimony, Rev. J. William Davies, pastor of the Congregational church, officiating.  Invitations had been issued to relatives and immediate friends of the contracting parties to the number of twenty-five.  The ceremony was held in the parlor beneath a large bower of evergreens and roses, the single ring service was observed and a charming little lady, Miss Dorothy Bloor, acting as the ring bearer.  The bride was dressed in powder blue Georgette, carrying a fine bouquet of pink roses, the groom wearing the conventional black for wedding occasions. At the close of the ceremony the happy pair received the cordial congratulations of all present. The entire party proceeded to Hotel de Cumber where dinner was served. The bride for many years has always commanded the sincere good will of all who retain the pleasure of having her acquaintance, while the bridegroom is widely known in Sidney and locality as an upright ad reliable young man.  After a motor trip in the Northern part of the State, Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Wild will return to Sidney to make their home and will receive cordial congratulations held in reserve by their many warm friends. The bridal presents were numerous and useful for their new Sidney home now ready for their reception.

Mr. & Mrs. Roscoe Wightman

Norwich Sun, January 10, 1931   

Sunday, January 5, was the 50th anniversary in the happy married life of Roscoe and Anna Wightman of this village.  They had decided to let the day slip quietly by but their many friends in the Baptist church, of which Mr. Wightman has been deacon for more than thirty years and Mrs. Wightman a faithful, earnest member, planned differently.  Paul Smith, superintendent of the Sunday School, and Mrs. Smith, invited Deacon and Mrs. Wightman and Rev. and Mrs. Woodward to their home for dinner Saturday at 6 o'clock .  After dinner, Mr. Smith brought them to the Annex where about one hundred members of the church and congregation were waiting to welcome and congratulate them. The other deacons and their wives received them.

Nearly all had been busy during the week preparing for this happy event, but no little bird had whispered to Mr. ad Mrs. Wightman and they were completely surprised, but were soon their genial, kindly selves.  they were seated at the north end of the annex with Dr. and Mrs. Woodward, and a short but pleasing appropriate program was given consisting of several selections by the orchestra, vocal solo, "Fifty Years Ago," by Mrs. Hile; vocal duet by Mrs. Coy and Mrs. Coss; reading, "That Old Sweetheart of Mine," by Mr. Hovey; quartette, "The Old Gray Bonnet," by Mrs. Camp, Mrs. Coy, Mrs. Coss and Mrs. Bailey; reading, "Shelling Peas" by Mrs. Frances Bagg; an extract from the records of the Baptist church was read, that stated on November 11, 1871 during the pastorate of Rev. H.O. Rowlands, the following young people related their Christian experience and asked for admission into the church.  They were Agness Darroch, Fanny Gage, Lucy Tyler, Emma A. Babcock, Cora Wheeler, and Mrs. Hiram Camp.  They were baptized at the same day or during the same pastorate with Emogene Crosby, Nettie Arnold, Nettie Gorham, Catie Gage, Esther Jacox, Almeron Camp, Ira J. Bailey, Stephen Bailey, Eugene Bailey and Adelbert Wightman.  Following this, Rev. Dr. Woodward in a happy pleasing way presented to Deacon and Mrs. Wightman a purse of gold and a beautiful basket bouquet of yellow snap dragons and green, the basket being tied with gold ribbon, as a small token of the love and respect their friends and co-workers in the church have for them.  Mr. and Mrs. Wightman responded thanking their friends. The program was closed by prayer by Rev. Simons.  A delightful social hour followed during which ice cream and cake were served.  Besides the home folk we had with us William Wightman and Merritt Wightman of Wallace, Steuben county, Mr. and Mrs. Will Evans, Merton Evans and son Hubert Evans, of Norwich, and Mrs. Ruth Southern, of New Berlin.  May Father Time deal kindly by this worthy couple and grant them many more years of usefulness and Christian influence.

Marriage Notices

Chenango American, October 6, 1864

At the residence of the bride's father, in this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., by Rev. Wm. M. Robinson, Mr. Ezra B. Wheeler, and Miss Mary A. Delamater, all of this town.

At the M.E. Parsonage, in this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., by Rev. M.W. Wells, Mr. Elias Hayes, of this town, to Elizabeth Lawrence, of Lewisborough, N.Y. [Westchester Co.]

In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 20th ult., by Rev. Wm. A. Smith, Mr. T.D. Parker, to Miss Addie E. Smith, all of Coventry.

In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th ult., by Rev. Mr. Pierce, Norman P. Hitchcock, to Betsey Havens, both of Pitcher.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., by Rev. D.H. Macurdy, Cyrus A. Bacon, Esq., to Mrs. Catherine Kinyon.

Chenango American, October 13, 1864

In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst., by Rev. E. Puffer, Mr. Henry Davis, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Libby Wild, of the former place. Also by the same, Mr. Francis Harrington, of this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Fida Leach, of Willet [Cortland Co., NY].

It Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th ult., by Rev. Mr. Haskins, Mr. C. Morrell Gray, to Miss Lois I. Barber, both of Otselic.

In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., Mr. Edward H. Purdy, to Miss Carrie E. Foote, of Sherburne.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., at the residence of the bride's father, by Rev. L.C. Queal, John Reynolds, of Canada, to Mary Lemley.

At the residence of the bride's father, in Lebanon [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., by Rev. Samuel Miller, Henry H. Wilcox, of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY] to Betsey E. Ladd, of Lebanon.

At the Congregational Parsonage, in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] on the 27th ult. by Rev. S. Scoville, Merritt Thomson, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Ella Brusshell of Norwich.

Chenango American, October 20, 1864

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th inst., by Rev. W.C. Bowen, Mr. Henry A. Bradley, to Miss Emily Beebe, both of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. David W. Bartle to Miss Marcia S. Willoughby, all of Oxford.

Obituaries (April 13)

Dr. Earl Wadsworth Wilcox

Died January 6, 1937, Norwich, NY

Dr. Earl Wadsworth Wilcox

Dr. Earl W. Wilcox, Chenango county coroner for the past 35 years, died at the Chenango Memorial Hospital [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] Wednesday afternoon following a brief illness. Although in failing health for several weeks, his condition did not become grave until a few days ago.  Dr. Wilcox was born in Cedarville [Herkimer Co NY], January 2, 1872.  He practiced medicine in this city for some 40 years.  A past president of the Chenango County Medical Society and many times its delegate to the state conventions, he was held in high esteem by the members of his profession  He was a member of the New York State Medical Society and also of the medical staff of the Chenango Memorial Hospital.  He is survived by one daughter, Miss Cora Wilcox of this city.  Funeral services will be held from the Breese Funeral Home, but arrangements have not yet been completed.

Funeral services for Dr. Earl Wadsworth Wilcox, whose death occurred at the Chenango Memorial Hospital late Tuesday afternoon will be held from the William Breese Funeral home at 2 o'clock Saturday afternoon.  Rev. Lloyd S Charters, rector of Emmanuel Episcopal church will officiate.  Burial will be made in Mt. hope cemetery [Norwich].  A coroner for Chenango county for the past 35 years, Dr. Wilcox ranked high in his profession and was beloved by legions in this city and county.  He was born January 2, 1872 in Cedarville, Herkimer county, the son of Dr. Orrin B. and Lizzie Wadsworth Wilcox.  Dr. Wilcox attended the Earlville schools where the family later moved.  He completed his education at Cazenovia Seminary and West Winfield Academy.  He was graduated in medicine from Albany Medical College in 1894.  After practicing for a few years with his father he moved to this city in 1900 where he has since resided and practiced.  Dr. Wilcox was a lifelong Republican and was held in high esteem in party councils.  Soon after taking up his residence in this city he ran for the office of coroner and was elected.  In successive campaigns he was repeatedly returned to that office with handsome majorities.  Faithful and efficient in his duties as medical officer of the law he won respect from all.  Dr. Wilcox was a member of the physicians' staff of the Chenango Memorial Hospital in this city.  He was a past president of the Chenango County Medical.  Dr. Wilcox was a member of the New York Medical Society and the American Medical Association.  He was long an active member of the Norwich Club and of the Eagles.  Failing health forced him to relinquish some of his activity in recent weeks. Ten days ago he became gravely ill and was admitted to the Chenango Memorial Hospital where his condition remained critical until the end. Surviving is one daughter, Miss Cora E. Wilcox of this city.  His wife died several years ago.  One niece, Miss Gertrude M. Jones of Troy and one nephew, Gerald Jones of Walton, also survive.

Alice G. Wells

Died February 16, 1936, North Norwich, NY

Mrs. Alice G. Wells, 39, wife of Clifford Wells of  North Norwich, died at her home in that place at 5 o'clock Sunday morning, after a six weeks' illness. The deceased was born in Norwich, Oct. 5, 1896, and besides her husband is survived by three children, Jean E. Franklin C. and Kathleen M.  She also leaves two b rothers, Neil T Sullivan and Percy N. Sullivan of Norwich and a sister, Mrs. Stanley Lahr of Wyoming, Pa., also several nephews and nieces.  Funeral services are to be held at the Breese funeral home at 2:30 Wednesday afternoon. Rev. Paul Hulslander of Smyrna officiating. The body will be place in the vault at Mt. Hope.

Fred Allen West

Died May 17, 1936, Norwich, NY

Fred Allen West, 42-year-old farm laborer, was killed instantly about 3:30 Sunday afternoon on the South New Berlin road [Chenango Co., NY], when he was thrown from the rear of a truck after the vehicle figured in a collision with the Cortland-Norwich-Oneonta bus which was traveling in the opposite direction. Adelbert S Barton of South State street operator of the truck in which West was riding, was taken into custody, following the accident, by Deputy Sheriff Frank J. Machio and Sergt. A.E. Young of the state police and charged with driving a motor vehicle while intoxicated.  He was taken before justice H.H. Goodnow at South new Berlin and was ordered committed to the county jail when his arraignment was postponed until Tuesday morning before the justice.  West was sitting on a trunk in the rear of the pickup truck driven by Barton. Riding on the seat with the driver was Loren Voorhis, brother-in-law of West, and Daniel Robbins. Voorhis was sitting between Robbins and the driver. The party was returning from South New Berlin, where they had been for the trunk, owned by West. As the machine approached a small concrete bridge near Washburne's corners, not far from Amberville, Barton pulled the vehicle sharply to the right and it hit a concrete guard post and then the side of the bridge. This caused the rear of the truck to go crosswise of the highway.  The Cortland-Norwich-Oneonta bus driven by Lynn B. McKee of Cortland, was traveling toward South New Berlin, and the driver was unable to bring the bus to a stop in time to avoid a collision. The impact hurled West headfirst to the hard surface of the road.  West was brought to the Breese funeral home, where, at the direction of Dr. E.W. Wilcox, coroner, Drs. L.T. Kinney and N.C. Lyster performed an autopsy. Death was due to a fractured skull.  Voorhis, who was slightly hurt, was taken to the Chenango Memorial Hospital in the Breese ambulance, but the man was discharged from the institution after his slight injuries were dressed.  Robbins, fourth member of the party was not located until about 9:30 Sunday night on Mechanic street.  He told Deputy Sheriff F.J. Machio and District Attorney Glen F. Carter, who was called to investigate the fatality, that he was dazed and hurt in the collision and that he wandered away.  He appeared at the home of friends on Mechanic street Sunday night and was told authorities were looking for him.  About that time officers arrived. Robbins is a farmhand and has been working near White Store.  Miss Hazel McKee, sister of the bus driver, was the only occupant of the bus, and neither she nor her brother were injured. The bus completed its trip to Oneonta and Norwich, but was more than an hour late in arriving here, having been delayed by the accident.  Services for West will be held at the Breese funeral home at 2 o'clock Wednesday afternoon, Rev. N.S. McPherson officiating, with burial in South Plymouth.  The victim of the accident is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Leon Voorhis of South State street, where he made his home when not working on farms in this section, and Mrs. Geo. Doyle of Guernsey and Academy streets. A borther, Perry West of Natoli avenue, also survives. Recently West had been employed by George Brazee on the latter's farm near Kirk.  About 10 years ago he was injured while working in the woods when a tree fell upon him.  It became necessary to amputate the right leg as a result of that accident.  The brother, Perry West was hurt about 10 days ago when he fell from a telephone pole while working at McDonough. He is now confined to his home with his injuries.

Death Notices

Chenango American, October 6, 1864

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Mr. Hiram G. Dunn, aged 42 years.

In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., Mr. Levi Parker, aged 68 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult., of diptheria, Mr. George L. Hopkins, aged 40 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult., Mr. Jeduthan Newton, aged 86 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult., Kitty [Smith], daughter of Willard Smith, Jr., aged 6 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d ult., Cora [Haight], daughter of Horace and Harriet Haight, aged 9 years.

Killed in battle, near Winchester, Va., on the 19th ult., Lieut, Edward E. Breed, of Co. H 114th Regiment N.Y.S.V., son of William R. Breed, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Also, on the same day, Hezekiah Newton, of Co. B, 114th Reg., formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Also, Leonard R. Brown, of Co. B, 114th Reg., son of Russell Brown of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY].

Also Isaac Weaver, of Co. F, 114th Regt., and William Cashdollar, of the 5th N.Y. Heavy Artillery, both from Smyran [Chenango Co., NY].

At the U.S. General hospital, at Glasysville, Md.,. Eugene [Blanchard], son of George and Susan Blanchard, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], aged 17 years.

At Copper Falls Mine, Lake Superioer, on the 3d inst., Samuel J. Redfield, M.D., aged 31 years.  He was an only son of the late Chester Redfield of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., nY].

Delaware Gazette Vitals - 1820

Delaware Gazette, NY Vitals

Anna Maria Young

Delaware Gazette, January 20, 1820

On Anna Maria Young, a truly pious and benevolent recluse, who lived nearly 30 years alone on a small farm, the home of her ancestors, situated almost on the summit of one of the Oley mountains.  Her cottage was the picture of neatness and of comfort, and was visited by strangers from every direction, who never failed to depart without imbibing the highest opinions of the meekness, the piety, and the benevolence of their lonely, yet happy hostess.  She died November 17, 1819, aged 70 years.

By a Lady of Philadelphia

Here, underneath this mountain stone,

Lies Mary Young, who lived alone

High on the lofty mountain's side,

Belov'd and Honor'd till she died;

Lov'd and honor'd by the few,

Who give to virtue, virtue's due.

Stranger, she that's buried here,

Was humble, pious, and sincere;

The even tenor of her days,

She pass'd in grateful pray'r and praise,

Her heart was like the gentle dove,

That came from Heav'n with promis'd love--

Her heart, her hands, her cottage door,

Were open to the rich and poor.

Her faith confirm'd, her will resign'd,

So sweetly calm, so pure her mind,

The God of mercy from his Throne

Look'd down and claim'd her as his own.

                                                                                                 Schuylkill Journal (Philadelphia, PA)

Tisdell Daggett

Delaware Gazette, June 15, 1820

On Friday the 9th inst., a young man by hte name of Tisdel Daggett about 23 years of age, was drowned in a mill pond in the town of Stamford. The circumstances relating to this affliction of Providence, are these:  He attempted to swim a horse across the pond and when about in the center, was thrown off, and as is supposed, the horse struck him with his feet--he immediately sunk to the bottom.  He was shortly after taken out, and every exertion to bring him to life, proved ineffectual.  From the best information that can be obtained, the deceased has some friends residing in the County of Niagara, having left that place about two months ago.  

Death Notice

Delaware Gazette, January 13, 1820

DIED:  at Ithaca, Tompkins co., on the 21st of Dec. last, Mr. David B. Beers, formerly, and for many years a respectable merchant of this county [Delaware, NY]

Marriage Notices

Delaware Gazette, January 13, 1820

In Harpersfield, on the 19th Dec. last, by the Rev. Mr. Fenn, Mr. Isaac Wilcox to Miss Harriet Dayton.

On the 3d inst., by the Rev. O. Mack, Mr. James Treadwell, to Mrs. Catharine Ellarson, widow of the late Wm. Ellarson, of Broome, Schoharie County.

On the 4th inst., by the Rev. Seth Williston, of Durham, Green Co., Mr. Abraham C. Bogardus of Stamford to Miss Fanny M. Pendell of the former place.

On the 5th inst., by H.R. Phelps, Esq., Mr. John Maxwell to Miss Malinda Chase, daughter of W. Chase, Esq., both of Delhi.

Delaware Gazette, January 27, 1820

In Delhi, on Sunday evening last, by the Rev. Mr. Scoville, Mr. William Baker, aged 62 years, to the widow Elizabeth Braughton, aged 61.

On the same evening, by H.R. Phelps, Esq., Mr. Anson Tiffany, to Miss Polly Rich, of Walton.

In Walton, on the 20th instant, by the Rev. Mr. Scoville, Mr. John W. Denniston, of Cairo, Greene co., to Miss Phoebe Heath.

In Stamford, Mr. William Bakeley, to Miss Polly Cooley.

In Roxbury, Mr. Liberty Preston to Miss Betsey More.

Also, Mr. Jacob Keator, to Miss Betsey Smith.

Also, Mr. Henry Leonard to Miss Huldah Hull.

Letter from Atlanta -September 1864

Letter from Atlanta

Chenango America, October 13, 1864

Headquarters, 16th Ill. Inf. Vet.
Atlanta, Ga, Sept. 11, 1864

Dear Father:--At last I have the pleasure to write from the noted city of Atlanta.  Yes, Atlanta is ours, with its forts, big guns and scores of miles of earthworks, which encircle it on three sides, its broad streets, and fine buildings (though somewhat dilapidated by our shell), are all, all ours, and Sherman's grand old army is now encamped in shady groves around its suburbs, resting and reorganizing from its unparalleled campaign of just four months duration.  We are all conscious of the magnitude of the work so well done, and do not lightly esteem the prestige we have attained as an army. We left Hood, terribly beaten and cut up, at Lovejoy's Station, thirty miles south of Atlanta, on the 6th inst., and fell back slowly by column of divisions.  In the battle of the 1st of September, at Jonesboro, the gallant old 14th corps, under command of Gen. Jeff C. Davis, had the honor of giving the finished touch to Hood and the campaign, capturing 2,000 prisoners, 16 pieces of artillery, several stands of colors, 3000 stands of small arms, and Brig, Gen. Govans, of Arkansas, of Cleburn's famous rebel division.  Our loss was quite severe as we assaulted and carried the enemy's works.  But, to be more intelligible, I will give a few details of our movements, commencing August 27.  Though I suppose ere this reaches you that you will have obtained elaborate details, through the newspapers and by means of maps, &c, and can understand the "situation."  Since the battle of the 28th July, two miles northwest of Atlanta, Sherman had been gradually extending his lines to the right and front, until about the 25th August when our […] east of Atlanta, and making a curve around the north and west of the city, extended to the A.&W,P.R.R. near Eastpoint, where rested our right length of lines about 20 miles.  The intervening four weeks had been very hard on us, constant shelling going on and severe skirmishing between the main works of the opposing armies; and in the meantime we had advanced our parallels to within 200 yards of those of the Johnnies, so near that we held conversation, and oftentimes venturesome Yanks and Johnnies traded coffee and tobacco.

Everywhere we advanced the enemy met us with heavy fortified works and batteries in position.  Every private in the army knew it were madness to charge them, nor did they believe Sherman to mature his plan of operations, which we were to execute.

On the 25th Aug. we saw troops, (the 4th, 15th, 16th, and 17th corps which had been on our left) moving in rear of us and to the right.  We were then assured that the last grand movement for the reduction of Atlanta had began, and impatiently waited for orders for us to move out. The orders came on the 26th, and at 2 A.M. of the 27th, we moved out of our works in front of Atlanta. The enemy suspected something was going on, though it were dark as one would wish, for they shelled us vigorously, but luckily not a man was struck. We proceeded on the Sandtown Road in a southwest course, about 4 miles where we halted and entrenched, fronting to the north.  Two days ago we were on the right of the army, now we are on the left and rear.  On the 28th the army moved forward to Red Oak Station on the Atlanta and West Point R.R., 14 miles southwest of Atlanta. We destroyed the road for several miles. The enemy followed us, but could not reach our trains as they moved in the centre of our columns.  We had 20 days rations.  On the 29th our corps rested at Red Oak, while the other corps moved into position the 15th, 16th and 17th corps (or army of the Tenn.) going to our right, while the 23d corps (Schofield's army of the Ohio) went to our left, the 4th and 14th corps, comprising the army of the Cumberland taking the centre.  I will say here that the 20th corps under Slocum, and belonging to the army of the Cumberland, did not march with us, but fell back from its line north of Atlanta to the R.R. Bridge over the Chattahoochie, thus holding the bridge and guarding our line of communications north of the river, thus leaving one corps at the river 8 miles north of Atlanta, while the other six corps marched around to the south.

On the 30th and 31st of Aug., our lines were advanced towards the Macon R.R., the Army of the Tenn. being thrown forward near the town of Jonesboro.  General direction of our lines north and south, fronting east. The enemy have become aware of our intentions to either cut off his means of supplies by getting this road or making him evacuate Atlanta, in the attempt to hold it has moved down his army or a large portion of it, and the afternoon of the 31st charged on the army of the Tenn.  A severe battle was fought, our troops holding their ground and piling the rebel dead in heaps before them. The same night our division commanded by Gen. Jas. D. Morgan was marched 4 miles to the right, as a support to Gen. Howard, in case of a night attack, which was apprehended, as our men were not entrenched, and to guard the thousands of army wagons parked in that vicinity.  The enemy did not attack, and early the next morning, Sept. 1st, we retraced our steps of yesterday, then moving to the east and front about 10 miles, joining the other division of the corps at 4 P.M., near the headwaters of Flint River, and 1-1/2 miles northwest of Jonesboro. Severe skirmishing was going on, and as the head of our column merged in sight of the enemy's position, two rebel batteries opened upon us, at a range of only 600 yards, killing and maiming several in our ranks.  Our two division batteries, "Barnett's 2d Ill, Co. I," and "Gardner's 5th Wis." gallantly and rapidly came into action, and soon made it too warm for the rebel artillerists, though other batteries away to our left stirred us up occasionally.  We lay here about 1/2 hour waiting orders, when we left flanked about 3/4 of a mile and formed line of battle 700 yards in front of the batteries which had first annoyed us.  The 14th Mich. Infantry and 6th Ill. formed the first line of the brigade being supported by the 10th Mich., 60th Ill, and 17th N.Y.  At 5 P.M. the charge was sounded, and away we went, over the open field to the enemy's line.  Shell came […] missiles known were sent screeching and howling through our ranks; it seemed as though no men would live to reach the enemy's works, but we were bound to go forward, knowing that Atlanta depended upon this one charge.  In another instant we gained the works, mounted them, took 300 prisoners, two 4 gun batteries, mules, horses, and battery wagons and nearly all the artillerists, besides Brig. Gen. Govans. The men eagerly pursued the dumbfounded enemy, but were recalled and reformed behind the captured works, which were immediately reused.  My regiment turned two of the guns upon the enemy; the battle raged till after dark, the enemy drawing off, we holding everything. The 3d division on our right gained the works the same time we did, they also capturing a battery. The 1st division on our left were repulsed in the first attempt, but finally took the works in their front, thus at dark the whole of Jeff, C. Davis 14th corps, occupied the enemy's works, having achieved a decisive victory. The 14th corps done all the fighting on the 1st Sept., the other corps holding their lines and cheering while we went in. The next morning Gens. Thomas, Davis, and Morgan, congratulated the division upon its signal success.  Gen. Davis said the charge of the 2d division was witnessed by 20,000 men, and was one of the grandest feats of the war.  Our regiment receives credit for having captured the colors and two guns of Swett's Miss. Battery from Vicksburg, 119 stands of small arms and 100 prisoners. We lost in the charge only 2 men killed and 8 wounded, which seems almost miraculous, as other regiments in our brigade lost 75 and 80 men.  The 17th N.Y. from the city, lost its colonel (Gower) a gallant young fellow and 90 men.  Maj. Barnett Comdy 10th Mich. infantry, was also killed. The brigade lost 200 I believe and lost no general officers. The rebel Maj. Gen Anderson is reported killed; they must have lost at least 3000 men in this action with the 14th corps.

Sept 2d we advanced and found the enemy had retreated down the R.R.  The 4th, 15th, 16th, 17th and 23d corps, pursued them to Lovejoy's Station ,taking many prisoners, &c, while the 14th corps remained at Jonesboro to rest, after the battle of the day previous.  The 3d Sept., we received official notice that Gen. Slocum with the 20th corps occupied Atlanta at 11 A.M. of the 2d, just four months from the time we left Rossville, Ga.  It come to light that Hood was completely outgenerald by Sherman, and the result is, he has been defeated and lost Atlanta besides. When we left the works in front of Atlanta we supposed we had all returned north, there was great rejoicing in Atlanta, and the people from Macon and other towns below came up to celebrate the occasion. When the 20th corps fell back to the Chattahoochie they were closely followed, Hood supposing the whole Yankee army had gone that way.  So that when the head of our columns made their appearance at Jonesboro and vicinity, the rebels supposed it was some large raiding party, and sent forces from Atlanta by rail to meet us, and continued doing so, until the whole rebel army was at Jonesboro, except S.D. Lee's corps which was at Atlanta during the battle, while our 20th corps was at Chattahoochie river, 8 miles north of Atlanta during the same time.  Lee upon hearing of Hood's defeat, at Jonesboro, destroyed the public stores, spiked the siege guns around Atlanta, blew up 80 car loads of ammunition, and retreated on the right of the 1st, going south east towards McDonough. Thus for 12 hours Atlanta was owned by no one and all Gen. Slocum had to do was to march down from the Chattahoochie bridge and take possession.

Our army remained at Jonesboro and Lovejoy's until the 6th when, having driven the enemy south of the Ocnulger, we slowly came back to Atlanta with bands playing and colors flying, the enemy not daring to follow. Arrived at Atlanta on the eve of the 8th going into camps. We are now encamped in a beautiful grove just outside the city limits on the south side.  The locality is called "Whitehall."

Before the advance of our army into Georgia, Atlanta had a population of 30,000; there are now not more than 3000 and these have to leave within fifteen days; those having friends and relations in the south and rebel army, are to go farther south, the other portion are to go north of the Ohio river.  There are many fine buildings and the city is in a clean conditin.  None of the rebel soldiers were allowed to be […] here because […] of the town are badly damaged by Yankee shell.  The citizens generally had holes in the ground and bomb-proof, […] out of their reach.  The stores and business houses are empty; but a few weeks of Federal ocupation will fill them.  Wheeler's cavalry has interrupted our mails, &C., for some days, but now that we have finished Hood it will receive attention.

I am well and thank God have safely passed through the thousand dangers which have attended our every step the past four months.  I have been and am now, very busy attending to business of the Adjutant's office, which has inevitably been neglected.  Yesterday I made a detailed report of the whole campaign. We expect pay in a few days, not having received any since Jan. 1st.  I perceive the rebel concern at Chicago, has nominated "Little Mac" the Chickahominy humbug.  He probably promised the Vullandigham clique more than is known to the public.  I am very respectfully your son.

John G. Schenck