Obituaries (May 30)

Celina Ferguson

Died November 24, 1926, Binghamton, NY

Mrs. Celina Ferguson formerly of Afton, died at the home of her daughter in Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], Thursday November 25th,.  The funeral will be held Saturday, at 2 o'clock at the Methodist church at Bainbridge.  Mrs. Ferguson was a former resident of this place and will be remembered by a large circle of friends. She was a member of Vandenburg Woman's Relief Corps No. 58.

Sarah A. Verguson

Died December 16, 1926, Afton, Chenango Co., NY

Mrs. Sarah A. Verguson widow of the late Riley Verguson died at her home on the East side Thursday evening, December 16th at the age of 88 years after an illness of over two years.  She is survived by her son, Raymond Verguson of this place, two granddaughters, and two great-grandchildren. and several nephews and nieces.  The funeral was held Monday December 20, Rev. D.M. Geddes officiating.  Interment in Glenwood cemetery [Afton, Chenango Co., NY].  

Seth S. Beckwith

Chenango American, May 18, 1865

In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on the 12th inst., Mr. Seth S. Beckwith, late of this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY] aged 79 years.  Mr. Beckwith was born in Watertown, Conn. in 1786, and in early manhood removed to this County.  He has resided a great portion of his life in the adjoining town of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY].  He was emphatically a pioneer in this wilderness country.  He was one of those sterling patriots, who amid suffering and privations of that period, laid the corner stone of our present abode of civilization and refinement.  Few men among us have enjoyed a more enviable reputation.  His high-toned integrity, his elevated Christian Character has made him the observed of his contemporaries through a long and eventful life.  He has been a consistent member of the Congregational Church, and in early life attached himself to the Masonic institution. To his social duties in these relations he was particularly devoted to the last days of his life.  Through evil report and good report he has been the champion in intellectual and moral influence without variableness or shadow of turning.  Like the ripened wheat he has been gathered to his fathers, with the jewels of Faith, Hope and Charity as his breast plate, and died in the hope of a glorious immortality.  His remains were interred in our Cemetery on the 15th inst.  His Masonic Brothers attended in a body to pay the last duty to an aged and honored brother and companion in the rugged path of life.  An eloquent address was delivered by Rev. W.C. White which was listened to by a large and attentive audience, who had gathered to mingle their sympathies with the family of the deceased.

Nancy Ashcraft

Chenango American, May 25, 1865

On Monday May 15th, Nancy [Ashcraft], daughter of James Ashcraft, of German [Chenango Co., NY], was almost instantly killed by the falling of a dry tree. A brother and sister younger than herself were with her, who carried the sad news to their home, only a few rods distant, which they had all left not to exceed twenty minutes before. She was 15 years of age. At the time the tree fell there was no wind.  Her brother saw the tree start, and cried out, "Nancy, the tree will fall on you," but she did not hear him.  The tree fell across her head.

David English

Chenango American, May 4, 1865

David English, an old man about 84 years of age, living in what is called the Sap Bush, in this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], was burned up with his house and all it contained on the 24th ult.,  He had bene living alone for some time, and was quite infirm. Friends were in the habit of going in and helping him at times.  It is supposed that the house caught fire while he was asleep, and thus he lost his life.

William A. Atwater

Chenango American, May 4, 1865

William A. Atwater died this A.M. at 7 o'clock (24th ult.) from the effects of a wound received in the head on the 2d of April, while nobly doing his duty.

The above announcement came suddenly and distressingly upon Mr. John S. Atwater of this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY] for although advised that his son was wounded, it was not considered fatal, nor dangerous even.  Up to within three days of this death, William was upon his feet and suffered by the Hospital Surgeon to roam at will about the hospital grounds, but a sudden prostration came; accompanied with the burning fever and chilling ague, and in three days he quietly passed away, not withstanding every care was given to save his life. he had his right mind till within a few moments of  his death, but did not seem to think that he was so nearly across the river of life, for he left no farewell for friends at home, made no request about the disposition of his effects, nor even pressed the hands of his comrades who stood over him in a silent adieu.

Death Notices

Chenango American, May 4, 1865

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., George W. Westfall, aged 15 years.

At Camp Parole, Annapolis, Md., on the 7th ult. Moses W. Tefft, of Co G., 8th N.Y. Cavalry, son of Welcome, and Lucinda Tefft, of German [Chenango Co., NY], aged 18 years, 10 months and 20 days.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult., Emily E. [Comstock], daughter of Francis and Lucy Comstock, aged 2 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult., Emeline [Beardsley], wife of Orlando Beardsley, aged 30 years.

In Oxford, on the 6th ult., Marietta [Stratton], wife of George Stratton, aged 41 years.

In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult., Lewis F. [King], only son of C.L. And N.L. King, aged 3 years, 9 months and 9 days.

Chenango American, May 18, 1865

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], on the 12th ult., Mrs. Ruby Randall, aged 69 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., John T. Holmes, aged 16 years and 10 months.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst., John Skinner, aged 74 years.

Vital Records - April/May 1845

Binghamton Courier, April 10, 1845

Married in Conklin [Broome Co., NY], march 27th, by the Rev. Mr. Darby, Mr. Theron Thompson and Miss Jane W. Potter, both of the former place.

Binghamton Courier, April 24, 1845

Married At the Presbyterian Church, Castle Creek [Broome Co., NY], on Sunday the 13th inst., by the Rev. S.W. Leonard, Mr. Festus E. Dennison to Miss Caroline Cary.

Died, in Colesville [Broome Co., NY], April 21, of consumption, Miss Eunice Matoon, daughter of Davide Matoon, in the 35th year of her age.

Died, In Vestal [Broome Co., NY], on Wednesday last, Mr. John Dunbar, aged about 60 years.  This is the third death in this afflicted family in the period of the last few days, the demise of Mrs. Dunbar, and a son, having been noticed in our last.  The disease, we understand, was bilious congestion of the lungs.  Mr. D. was an unpretending, but intelligent and most excellent man.  The whole community sympathize most deeply with the bereaved friends.

Binghamton Courier, May 1, 1845

Marrried, in Chenango [Broome Co., NY], April 18, by the Rev. C. Darby, Mr. Edward Heald of Choconut, Pa., and Miss Irene Gould of the former place.

Married, In Windsor [Broome Co., NY], on the 21st inst., by the Rev. H.W. Gilbert, Mr. Peter S. Jones of Conklin [Broome Co., NY], to Miss Caroline O. Thompson of Windsor.

Married, in Colesville [Broome Co., NY], on the 22d inst., by the same, Mr. Samuel Perkins of Windsor [Broome Co., NY] to Miss Hannah Ruggles of Colesville.

Binghamton Courier, May 15, 1845

Married, in this town [Binghamton, Broome Co., NY], on Wednesday evening, the 9th inst., by the Rev. Mr. Gregory, Mr. Robert C. Trivett to Miss Louisa G. [Ely], daughter of Col. Oliver Ely, all of this place.

Died, in this village [Binghamton, Broome Co., NY], on Wednesday evening, 9th inst., Mrs. Eliza M. Kinney, wife of Judge Jacob McKinney, aged 64 years.

Died, in this village [Binghamton, Broome Co., NY] on the 4th inst., of scarlet fever, Louisa Adelaide [Brigham], daughter of Elmer W. and Ruth Ann Brigham, aged 3 years.

In Conklin [Broome Co., NY], on Friday last, after a long and painful illness, Mr. Elijah Wood, an old and respected inhabitant of that town, aged 66 years.

In Vestal [Broome Co., NY], April 13, Dolly [LaGrange], wife of Mr. John LaGrange, Esq., aged 47 years.

In Davenport, Scott Co., Iowa, on the 17th April, of a cancer, Ira Cooke, Esq., formerly of Lisle , in this county [Broome Co., NY] aged 66 years.

Binghamton Courier, May 21, 1845

In Windsor [Broome Co., NY], on Friday the 9th ins.t, of scarlet fever, Wm. Sidney [Knox], son of Hezekiah Knox, aged ten years--and on Tuesday the 13th, Neely Stratton [Knox], son of the same and of the same disease, aged eight years.

Binghamton Courier, May 28, 1845

Married, in Greene [Chenango Co., NY], the 29th ult., by the Rev. C. Darby, Mr. Francis Billings and Miss Annah Houghton, both of Greene.

Obituaries (May 28)

James C. Sands

Died January 26th, 1917, Vallonia Springs, NY

After a brief illness, James C. Sands died at his home at Vallonia Springs [Broome Co., NY], Friday evening, January 26th.  He was born in Meredith, N.Y. [Delaware Co.], January 10, 1856.  In his early childhood the family moved to Bainbridge, where he lived until he began the practice of law in Greene in 1880.  After six years of law practice he moved to Vallonia Springs, where he spent the remainder of his life  In 1881 he was married to Nettie C. VanCott, who died in 1909.  He is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Joseph R. Wescott, a son, Orin Arnold, a granddaughter, Jeanette Sands Wescott, and his wife, Harriet Kniskern, to whom he was married in 1912; also two brothers Fred J. and William G. and one sister, Jane Sands. The funeral services were held at the home Monday morning, and burial was in Green Swan Cemetery [sic-should be Greenlawn] in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

Viola (Eldred) Cole

Died August 11, 1917, Nineveh, NY

The death of Viola Cole occurred Saturday, Aug. 11th, after a long illness. She was born May 10, 1895.  The funeral, which was private, was held at her late home in Nineveh [Broome Co., NY], being conducted by Rev. Mr. Wyse.  Besides her husband, Floyd Cole, and one child of 15 months, she is survived by her father, Melvin Eldred, four brothers, and four sister, all of whom were present at the funeral.

A patient sufferer thou hast been,

Here among the haunts of men.

Thy little barque so feeble and frail,

Has been tossed by every passing gale.

But he who calmed storm tossed Galilee

Stills the tempest on life's troubled sea.

Altho' one so young and fair,

Has gone from out this world of care

We cannot wish thee back again.

For we know thou art at rest.

Thou art free from sickness and sin.

Thou canst not hear the noise and din

Of life's fierce battles and conflicts.

Thou art conqueror in the strife,

O'er all the ills and woes of life.

And when at last, the trumpet sounds

Summoning Christ's children the world around,

Just when will be His reign sublime,

Out lord has not revealed the time,

'Til then, weary one, rest.

Albert L. Ricks

Died September 14, 1917, Sanford, NY

A.L. Ricks, for many years a resident of Sanford [Broome Co., NY], died at the home of his son, Charles E. Ricks, in that place last Friday of acute indigestion, aged sixty-five years.  For a few years previous to two years ago, when his wife died, he resided at Afton [Chenango Co. NY], but at this time came back on the old homestead to live with his son.  He has been in failing health for several months, having had Bright's disease.  Mr. Ricks was a man well known throughout the town of Sanford, and leaves many friends who will learn of his demise with sorrow. The funeral was held at the home Monday afternoon at 1 o'clock, Rev. E. Van Horn officiting.  Interment at Hale Eddy [Delaware Co, NY].

Minnie Clark

Died January 8, 1920, Sanford, NY

Mrs. Minnie Clark, wife of George Clark, of Sanford [Broome Co., NY], died of Bright's Disease, Thursday morning, January 8, 1920.  The funeral was held at the Baptist church at Vallonia Springs Saturday afternoon Jan. 19, at one o'clock. The Rev. B.A. Gates of the Afton Baptist church officiated.  Burial was made in the Perch Pond Hill Cemetery. The deceased was born in Sanford, Jan. 1, 1866.  When she was twenty-three years of age she married Edwin Phillips, who died in 1911.  In June 1917 she was married again to George Clark of Sanford.  Four children survive her, Mrs. Harry LeSuer of Afton, Leonard and Frank, of Binghamton, and Irving Phillips of Sanford; also three sisters Miss Edna Saunders, of Windsor, Mrs. Delos Randall, of Guilford, and Mrs. Edward Hatch, of Chenango Forks.

Estella (Pittsley) Terrell

Died September 6, 1920, Afton, NY

Mrs. Garland G. Terrell (nee Estella Pittsley) died at her home in this village, after a long illness, on Monday at 10:40 a.m., aged 59 years.  the funeral was held from the home at 2:00 o'clock Wednesday Rev. B.A. Gates officiating.  Interment was in Glenwood Cemetery [Afton, Chenango Co. NY].

Death Notices

Chenango American, April 27, 1865

In Albany, on the morning of the 17th inst., Emma [Rogers], wife of Henry A. Rogers, of Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY], aged 44 years and 27 days.

But, be still--be still--

If she hath entered first, what then!  Be still,

And let the few brief sands of time roll on,

And keep your armor bright, and waiting stand

For her warm welcome to the realms of bliss.

In Newbern, N.C., on the 3d of Jan., last, of typhoid fever, Augustus St. Amand, Jr., of Battery I., 8d N.Y.S.V. Light Artillery, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult., Mrs. Rhoda Rogers, aged 84 years and 8 months.

In Lansing, Mich., on the 9th ins.t, Helen E. [Wood], only daughter of Abner and Cornelia A. Wood, aged 13 years, 9 months and 15 days, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th ins.t, Julia A. Evans, aged 31 years, 8 months and 2 days.

In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst., Catherine [Reynolds], wife of the late C.Y. Reynolds, aged 88 years, 8 months and 5 days.

In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., Mary Ann [Wade], daughter of Lewis and Mary Wade, aged 21 years.

In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst., Mary Osgood, wife of the late Luther Osgood, aged 53 years.

Marriages (May 27)

Livingston - Teale

Married October 25, 1916, Nineveh, NY

A quiet wedding took place on Perch Pond Hill [Nineveh, Broome Co., NY] Wednesday evening, October 25th, when Minor Livingston, of Windsor [Broome Co., NY], and Miss Ada Teale were united in marriage.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. James G. Rice, of Harpursville, at the home of the bride's parents.

Hodge - Haskins

Married August 21, 1916, Afton, NY

Married at the M.E. parsonage, Afton, N.Y., Monday evening, Aug. 21, 1916, Eugene Hodge and Mrs. Cassie Haskins both of Coventry, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], Rev. I.L. Bronson officiating.

Smith - Goodnough

Married October 3, 1916, Afton, NY

Married at the East Side Homestead on Tuesday afternoon, October 3rd, 1916, by the Rev. C.E. Sweet, C. Eugene Smith and Mrs. Constantia E Goodnough both of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY].  They were unattended and will be at home to their friends at the Smith Homestead at once.

Seeley - McCroy

Married February 6, 1916, Afton, NY

A very quiet wedding ceremony was performed at the home of Dr. P.A. Hayes, Sunday morning Feb. 6, 1916, by Rev. C.O. Fuller, at which time Mr. Albert Seeley and Miss Hattie McCroy were united in marriage.  Miss McRoy has been a member of Dr. Hayes household for several years. She is a well known and popular young lady. She had been very active in the work of the Baptist church, being Supt. of the primary department of her Bible School, at one time being President of the C.E. Society and the Philathea class. She is also a member of the Woman's Relief Core of Vanderburg Post and a member of the Amber Rebeccah lodge.  In both organizations she has held offices of honor and trust.  Mr. Seeley is well known young man of excellent habits.  Socially is a member of the Odd Fellows lodge and the Presbyterian church. A host of friends will wish these young people many years of happiness together.  Mr. and Mrs. Seeley have gone on a trip to New York City to visit Mrs. Seeley's relatives. They have taken the Earl Thurston farm and expect to be at home about the middle of February.

Littell - Hamlin

Married August 28, 1916, Afton, NY

Married at the M.E. parsonage at Afton, N.Y [Chenango Co., NY], Saturday morning, August 26th, Miss Lena A. [Hamlin], daughter of Mr. and Mrs. A.L. Hamlin, of Sanford [Broome Co., NY] and Rev. Clair F. Littell, pastor of the Freeman Avenue M.E. Church at Solvay, N.Y. [Onondaga Co.]  Rev. L.I. Bronson, their former pastor, officiated at the ceremony.  The bride is a graduate of the Deposit High School training class and has been for a number of years a successful teacher.  The groom, who is the son of Mr. and Mrs. F.J. Littell, of Dean St., is a graduate of the Lanesboro, Pa., High School, the Mansfield, Pa., State Normal School, and of Syracuse University. After completing his normal training course he acted as principal of the LeRaysville, Pa., High School for two years and held the same position at Rush, Pa., for one year.  He entered the ministry in 1912 and served the McClure charge for one year.  During his college course he was pastor of the Brick Church at Weedsport, N.Y., receiving his appointment at Solvay, N.Y., June 1st of the present year.  He is a member of the Acaria Fraternity, Syracuse University Cosmopolitan Club, the National Honorary Oratorical Society and of the Phi Beta Kappa. After a short honeymoon spent at their cottage at Sidney, N.Y., they will take up their residence at 134 Freeman Ave., Solvay, N.Y., where they will be at home to their friends after October 1st. The young couple have many friends in this vicinity who united in wishing them a happy and prosperous journey through life.

Jeffers - Church

Married September 8, 1917, Afton, NY

Married at the Methodist parsonage on the afternoon of September 8th, 1917, J. Berton Jeffers of Afton, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], to Lorena Blanch Church of Greene, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], Rev. Ira L. Bronson officiating.  The happy couple started immediately for a week's trip by auto.

Marriage Notices

Chenango American, April 13, 1865

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] on the 4th inst., by Rev. E.Z. Lewis, Mr. Chas. H. Graves, of Norwich, to Miss Laura L. Brown, of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango American, April 27, 1865

In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., by Rev. Geo. P. Turnbull, Mr. S.B. Watrous, of Port Crane [Broome Co., NY] and Miss Eunice C. Parker, of Coventry.

On board steamer Adriatic enroute from Morganea to New Orleans, Feb. 25,by Rev. S. Gardner, Capt. H.M. Crydenwise, 78d U.S. C.I., to Miss Sarah W. Hickox, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango American, May 4, 1865

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult., by Rev. L.E. Spafford, Mr. Henry Kinney and Miss Frances M. Rowley, all of Oxford.

Obituaries (May 26)

Iva May (Padgett) Eldred

Died February 6, 1916, Afton, NY

After an illness lasting about four weeks, Iva May [Eldred], wife of Grover Eldred, passed away Sunday evening, Feb. 6, 1916 at 8:30 o'clock at her late home on Main St. [Afton, Chenango Co., NY].  Mrs. Eldred was the daughter of J.B. Padgett and was born at Sanford, Feb. 22, 1887, thus lacking but a few days of being 29 years of age.  Mr. and Mrs. Eldred were married Feb. 3, 1901 and had just passed the twelfth anniversary of this happy event in their lives.  Mrs. Eldred was a member of the Eastern Star of Afton and also a member of the Baptist church. She and her husband were baptized Dec. 20, 1905 by Rev. H.A. Wait, then pastor of the Baptist church.  She was of a happy, cheerful spirit, delighting to be one of those who served at the social affairs of her lodge and her church.  Besides her husband she is survived by her father and mother, one sister, Mrs. Hugh Holcomb and one brother Thayne, all residing at Tunnel, N.Y.  The funeral was held at her late home Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock being conducted by Rev. C.O. Fuller, her pastor, and the Eastern Star.  Interment in Glenwood Cemetery [Afton].

Benjamin W. Pittsley

Died May 10, 1916, Afton, NY

As noted in last week's Enterprise, Benjamin W. Pittsley, died Wednesday morning, May 10, 1916.  Mr. Pittsley was born march 15, 1839 in Oxford, N.Y. [Chenango Co.] being the son of Chas. Pittsley. Aug. 27, 1860 he was united in marriage to Angelia Snell in Coventry.  In August 1862, he enlisted for the defense of his country in Company E 114 Infantry.  Part of the company being enlisted in Afton.  In 1864 being wounded he was invalided home and discharged.  Mr. Pittsley was a resident of Afton for over 40 years.  He is survived by his wife and three daughters, Mrs. Carl Terrel and Miss Maude Pittsley of Afton and Mrs. J.B. Eaton of Rochester, two sons Merton of Afton and Jerome of Harrisville, also one brother Henry Pittsley and one sister, Mrs. Geo. Shoemaker of Halstead, Pa.,  The funeral was held at his late home Friday, May 12, 1916 at 2 p.m. being conducted by Rev. C.O. Fuller.  Interment was in Glenwood cemetery [Afton], services at the grave being conducted by Vanderburg Post No. 158 G.A.R., of which Mr. Pittsley was a member.

Henrietta C. Johnson

Died February 6, 1916, Afton, NY

Mrs. Henrietta C. Johnson, wife of George Johnson of Algerine St. [Afton, Chenango Co., NY] died at her home Sunday morning, Feb. 6, 1916, aged 69 years, after an illness of several months, though previous to her last illness she had been in feeble health for a long time. She and Mr. Johnson were married Sept. 11, 1866.  She was a faithful and consistent member of the Baptist church of this village with which she united by baptism May 16, 1894.  She was also a valued member of the Vanderburg Relief Corps.  Funeral services were held from her late home Wednesday morning at 11 o'clock, Rev. C.O. Fuller preaching the sermon. Burial was in Glenwood cemetery [Afton]. Besides her husband she is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Isaac Jeffries and Mrs. Alfred Jeffries, and one son, Leonard Johnson.  All of Afton.

Clayton Ireland

Died August 12, 1917, Binghamton, NY

Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]:  The funeral services for Clayton Ireland, who met death in an automobile accident Sunday, was held in the Methodist church Thursday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock.  The Rev. H.D. Smith officiated, assisted by the Rev. R.H. Buck.  Mr. Ireland was the only child of Mr. and Mrs. Arvene Ireland of this village.  For a few years he was in the electrical works in Pittsfield.  Four years ago he returned to Bainbridge and since then has conducted a successful grocery business.  He had a large trade owing to an unusual charm of manner and up-to-date business methods.  All places of business were closed during the funeral and the sympathy of the town is extended to Mr. and Mrs. Ireland.  Miss Rutherford of Sidney, who was injured in the accident Sunday, is still in a critical condition in the Fox Memorial Hospital in Oneonta.

Frank Robert Quincy

Died November 27, 1917, Afton, NY

In the death of Frank Robert Quincy, which was mentioned last week, Afton has lost a citizen who his sterling character and kindly position had made everybody here a friend.  He was born near Wellsbridge, N.Y. May 23, 1875, where he lived until coming to Afton [Chenango Co., NY] where he has since resided until his death November 27, 1917.  In 1895, Mr. Quincy was married to Miss Emma Lingee, by whom he is survived.  He also leaves to mourn his death one son, Robert E., his mother, Mrs. Mae Quincy, and a sister, Mrs. Mae A. Wood, both of West Winfield, N.Y.  and one brother, Earl W. Quincy of Afton.  The funeral was held from his late residence last Friday afternoon, being conducted by Rev. W.M. Thompson of Herkimer, N.Y., assisted by Rev. C.O. Fuller.  Burial was in Glenwood Cemetery [Afton] and the service at the grave was in charge of the Masons of which order the deceased had been a member since 1910.  Mr. Quincy had been a member of the Baptist church since 1893.  He had served as the superintendent of the Sunday School for three years and for two years previous to his death he served as one of the deacons of the church.  He had also been on the town board of assessors for a number of years and in every position held by him in public or social life he was faithful to duty and considerate to others and the bereaved family have the sympathy of the entire community.  About 30 relatives form Wellsbridge and Unadilla were in attendance at the funeral.  Beautiful floral pieces were sent by Order of the O.E.S., Masonic Order, Maccabees Tent no. 735, Baptist Sunday School., Afton High School, together with many beautiful cut flowers by friends and relatives.

Death Notices

Chenango American, April 13, 1865

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst., Mr. Noah Judd, aged 82 years.

In Willet, Cortland Co., on the 3d inst., Mrs. Marilla Walls, aged 53 years.

At the Naval School hospital, Annapolis, Md., on the 28d ult., Mr. John Dowd, of Co. E, 5th N.Y. Heavy Artillery, aged 25 years, son of Timothy Dowd of this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY].

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 31st ult., of dropsy consumption, Betsey [Dent], wife of Joseph Dent, aged 68 years, 11 months and 3 days.

How many painful days on earth,

Her fainting spirits numbered o 'er;

Now she enjoys a heavenly birth--

She is not lost but gone before.  

In Norwich [Chenango, Co., NY], on the 10th inst., Eliza A. [Williams], wife of Geo. W. Williams, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 24 years.

In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst. Mrs. Gertrude Titus, aged 58 years.

In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th ins.t, Mr. Thos. Seward, formerly of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], aged 49 years.

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., Mr.  Nelson Ireland, aged 47 years.

Obituaries (May 25)

John Skelly

Died Nov. 4, 1915, Afton, NY

Last Thursday night, Nov. 4, 1915, John Skelly, another veteran of the Civil War and a useful and respected citizen was mustered out and passed into the Great Beyond.  Mr. Skelly was born at Lysander, N.Y. [Onondaga Co.], July 6, 1844.  When the civil War broke out he was among the first to enlist serving bravely in the 27th regiment of New York Volunteers. At the expiration of his enlistment he re-enlisted into Co. H., N.Y. Cavalry and was made 1st Sargent.  At the close of the war he came to Afton where he has ever since made his home. He is survived by his wife and five children, one son, Ray Skelly of Schenectady, and four daughters, Mrs. Sweet and Mrs. Gay of Binghamton, Mrs. Olendorf of Syracuse and Mrs. Glenn Morgan of this village.  The funeral was held at the house Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. L.L. Bronson, pastor of the M.E. church preaching the sermon.  The interment was in Glenwood cemetery [Afton, Chenango Co., NY]. Services were conducted at the grave by the G.A.R. Post of which Mr. Skelly was an honored member.

Eugene Montgomery

Died September 6, 1915, Afton, NY

About 4:30 Monday morning Sept. 6, 1915, Eugene Montgomery answered "Here" to the final "roll call" and his spirit passed to the Great Beyond.  He was born in the town of Colesville [Broome Co., NY] Sept. 9, 1839 and thus had nearly completed 76 years of earthly pilgrimage.  May 4, 1864, he was united in marriage to Ameret Thompson who survives him. They had spent over fifty-one years of happy married life together, the last six of which Mrs. Montgomery nursed him with tender care and devotion.  About 34 years ago they came to live at their present home on the west side river road to Bainbridge. About 20 years ago Mr. and Mrs. Montgomery united with the Afton Baptist church, being baptized by Rev. Hill who was their pastor.  Beside his wife, Mr. Montgomery is survived by one brother, Dudley Montgomery of Windsor, N.Y. The funeral services were conducted at his late home by Rev. C.O. Fuller, pastor of the Baptist church, Vanderburg Post G.A.R. of which Mr. Montgomery was a member, attended in a body and conducted the services at the grave in Pratt cemetery.

Charles W. Smith

Died January 13, 1916, New York City

Charles W. Smith of New York City, aged 59 years died very suddenly, Thursday afternoon, January 13, 1916.  The body was brought to Afton accompanied by his wife, Ella M. Smith and Prof. Carlton H. Hayes of Columbia university.  On Sunday at 2:30 o'clock the funeral  was held at the home of Dr. P.A. Hayes, a brother-in-law of the deceased.  Rev. C.O. Fuller, pastor of the Baptist church officiated.  Mr. and Mrs. John Demorier sang two selections. The floral tributes were beautiful.  Burial was in Glenwood Cemetery [Afton, Chenango Co., NY]. The service at the grave conducted by the Masonic Lodge, F.&A.M. No. 360 of which Mr. Smith was a member. Friends of the deceased who were present:  Mother, Mrs. Elvira Smith of Waverly, N.Y., three brothers, A.B. Smith of Buffalo, Fred Smith of Sayre, Pa., John Smith of Waverly, two sisters, Mrs. Henry Austin, of Geneva, Mrs. Edward Crispell of Philadelphia and a niece, Mrs. Joseph Wendell of Waverly, Edwin Huntley, E.E. Huntley, Charles Huntley and their wives.  Mr. Smith was a man of sterling character and ability At the time of his death he held a position of trust and responsibility. He was kind, courteous, obliging and beloved by all with whom he came in contact.  He will be missed by a large circle of friends and especially in his home.

Harriet (Furguson) Moore

Died January 13, 1916. Afton, NY

The death of Mrs. Harriet Moore, widow of the late Oscar Moore (who died Oct. 24, 1915) occurred under particularly painful circumstances last Thursday evening, Jan. 13, 1916.  She resided with her son, George Moore, near Afton lake [Chenango Co., NY].  In some manner not known, as she was alone at the time, her clothing caught fire and she was burned to death.  The accident was not discovered until the return of her son who had been working on the ice.  It is supposed that in lighting a lamp the match may have dropped and thus caught her clothing on fire.  Mrs. Moore was born in Schoharie County, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Furguson.  She is survived by her son, George Moore and a brother, Eugene Furguson. The funeral was held Sunday, Rev. I.I. Bronson officiating.  Interment was in Glenwood  [Afton, NY].

Mable (Cook) Tingley

Died December 25, 1916, Afton, NY

The death of Mrs. Mable C. Tingley, wife of George Tingley, died, Saturday, Dec. 25, 1915.  She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Cook and was born in Afton [Chenango Co., NY], March 9th, 1883.  She had been ill with the grip for about three weeks, but her death was unexpected, and in fact on the day of her death she had appeared to be somewhat better.  She was a member of the Episcopal church. She is survived by her parents and her husband. the funeral was held Tuesday, the 28th Rev. J.J. Francis of the Presbyterian church conducting the service.  Interment was in Glenwood Cemetery [Afton, NY].

Celia (Rowe) Lord

Died January 28, 1916, Afton, NY

Mrs. Celia Rowe Lord, the daughter of Henry and Elvira Rowe was born in Sanford, N.Y. [Broome Co., NY], April 17, 1851.  In 1874 she was married to Rufus R. Lord.  For more than a quarter of a century their home was in Sanford, where they reared their family, removing to Afton in 1901.  Between two and three years ago, Mrs. Lord suffered from a stroke of paralysis from which she afterwards rallied, although never fully recovering. A week or more before her death she received the second stroke which proved fatal. She died on Friday evening, January 28, 1916 at her home on Locust St., from which the funeral took place on Tuesday, Feb. 1 at one o'clock.  The services were conducted by Rev. Dr. John J. Francis, pastor of the Presbyterian church, and were attended by quite a large gathering of relatives and friends. The casket was covered with beautiful floral offerings. The burial was in Glenwood cemetery [Afton, NY] under the direction of funeral director, B.Y. McHugh.  Mrs. Lord is survived by her husband and her three sons and three daughters, viz:  Mrs. Fred Goodnough of Afton, Herbert Lord of Bainbridge, Mrs. Wesley Stevens of Sidney and Henry Lord, Fred Lord and Mrs. Frank Knapp of Afton.

Death Notices

Chenango Union, January 10, 1895

WARD:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 1, 1895, Mr. Jonas Ward aged 85 years.

BENTLEY:  in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 31, 1894, Mr. Charles H. Bentley, about 74 years.

JOHNSON:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 30, 1894, Mr .William Johnson, age 72 years.

NICHOLSON:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 7, 1895, Mr. W. Clark Nicholson, aged 84 years.

WILLCOX:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], Jan. 7. 1895, Orrin B. Wilcox, M.D., aged 56 years.

JACOX:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 27, 1894, Sarah Bagg [Jacox], wife of W.W. Jacox, age 63 years.

Obituaries (May 24)

Clarence R. Miner

Died October 4, 1908, Oxford, NY

Clarence R. Miner, a former Supervisor and one of the best known business men and farmers in this section of the county, died at his home two miles north of this village early Sunday morning.  Mr. Miner in the past year had several paralytic strokes which weakened him but he had recovered sufficiently to be able to be about and attend to business. About two weeks ago he was again stricken and it was at once apparent that the end was only a question of a few days.  Mr. Miner did not regain consciousness again. Bright's disease was the primary cause of the paralysis.  Mr. Miner was born in the town of Preston [Chenango Co., NY] February 4, 1856 and was the only child of Amos and Emily Miner.  Mr. Miner married Helen Catherine Locke January 2, 1875.  Mr. Miner followed farming and stock raising most of his life   For a few years he was engaged in the west, and on returning here was engaged in lumber enterprises.  He served the town as Supervisor in the years 1901 and 1902.  He was a member of Oxford lodge, No. 175, F.&A.M., and Oxford Chapter, No. 257, R.A.M., and a member of the Congregational church.  He made many friends during his lifetime who regret his early death.  He is survived by his wife, two sons Floyd L. and Benjamin B. Miner, and one daughter, Mrs. C. Ernest Munyan.  One daughter, Emily, died in June, 1904. The funeral was held at the family residence yesterday afternoon, the service being conducted by Rev. Theo. W Harris. The Masonic commitment service at the grave was performed by Oxford lodge, F.&A.M., at Riverview cemetery [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY].

Harry Thompson

Died November 30, 1907, Andes, NY

Another fatal accident occurred Saturday morning last at the Howard & McNair saw mill, Pleasant Valley, about two miles or so from Andes village [Delaware Co., NY].  The mill is a large one and there are several saws and usually a number of men are about, but at this time, Harry Thompson, a employee, was running one of the smaller saws in one end of them all alone.  No one knows just how the accident happened, but the pulley holding the saw was broken.  It is supposed Thompson was leaning over at the end of the saw to push away a pile of slabs, when the rope broke, pulling the saw against him.  It struck him at the front of the left shoulder, cutting through his lungs, heart and ribs almost to his waist.  After the accident, he ran the length of the mill, stepped over a shaft eighteen inches from the floor, muttered something about being hurt by the saw and fell dead near Mr. Howard, one of the proprietors who was in his office.  Mr. Howard immediately secured help, and carried the injured man to the house nearby. A physician was summoned but any one could see the terrible nature of the wounds and that medical aid was useless.  Coroner Keator was notified and viewed the scene of the accident and the remains but decided that the cause of death was apparent and plainly accidental.  No inquest was held. The deceased was 25 years of age and leaves a wife, both parents, a brother and three sisters. The funeral was held Monday from the M.E. church at Andes, Rev. Bookhout officiating.

Evalena (Myers) Knickerbocker

Died August 17, 1912, Dunraven, NY

Eva L. Knickerbocker, wife of Postmaster Brink Knickerbocker of Dunraven [Delaware Co., NY], died at her home in that place Saturday evening of pneumonia after an illness of several weeks.  Mrs. Knickerbocker was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Myers of Dunraven and was well and favorably known in this section. Besides her parents, she is survived by a husband and a young daughter. The funeral was held from the Methodist church, this village, Tuesday, and was very largely attended.  The services were conducted by Rev. James Douglas, assisted by Rev. L.E. Long.  interment in the Margaretville cemetery.

Harriet Ruth Nichols

Died November 12, 1915, Bainbridge, NY

Ruth Nichols, the daughter of George E. Nichols of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], formerly of North Afton, Miss Nichols died at her home near Bainbridge Nov. 12.  Burial was at North Afton, Sunday afternoon.  She was a Christian girl, always cheerful, well liked by all. She leaves to mourn her loss, her father and mother and two brothers and one sister. The family have the sympathy of all in their great sorrow and loss.

Chenango American, April 6, 1865

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th ult., Mr. Stephen A. Race, aged 69 years.

At the Naval School Hospital, Annapolis, Md., on the 22d ult., George Taft, of Co. B, 114th Reg. N.Y.S. Vols., aged 18 years, 4 months and 21 days.  Son of Stephen Taft of this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY].  George was taken prisoner on the 19th of October, at the battle of Cedar Creek, and sent to Salisbury Prison, North Carolina, where he remained till within a few days of his death.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st ult., Sally M. [Bunnel], wife of Charles F. Bunnel, aged 29 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult., Francis E. Root, aged 80 years and 10 months.

In rebel prison, Salisbury, N.C., Jan. 17th, Frederick Per Lee, of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], aged 21 years.

In Salisbury Prison, N.C., Feb. 18th, Charles E. Curtis of Co. B. 90th N.Y.V., late of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], aged about 30 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., Mrs. Mary L. [Wicks], wife of Milton Wicks, aged 22 years.