Vital Records (July 18)

Eccleston - Latham

Chenango Telegraph, September 23, 1875

ECCLESTON - LATHAM:  At the home of the bride, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], September 15th, by Rev. W.J. Judd, assisted by Rev. J.S. Eckman, Mr. Hosea B. Eccleston to Miss Laura E. Latham, all of Norwich.

In its appropriate place in today's Telegraph will be found the marriage notice of two of our well known citizens.  Of course we refer to that of Hosea B. Eccleston, Esq., and Miss Laura E. Latham.  The wedding services took place at the residence of the bride in this village on Thursday afternoon last, attended by a few friends, and we are assured it was a pleasant and enjoyable affair.  The knot was quickly tied by Revs. Judd and Eckman, and after an hour's society the happy could left on the evening train for Niagara Falls.  Mr. E. has been one of the producing classes in our town, and we are glad to know that his success in life has been such as to rank him among our solid men. The bride is the daughter of the late John Latham, Esq., formerly of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].  Upon the election to the office of County Clerk he moved to this village, where he continued to reside until taken hence.  The daughter possesses the merits of the father and is one of the worthy few who always seeks other's good rather than their own.  Both Mr. and Mrs. E. enjoy to a great extent the confidence and respect of our community, and all will unite with the Telegraph in good wishes for their continued prosperity and happiness.

Mr. & Mrs. S.W. Smith

15th Wedding Anniversary

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY,  September 23, 1875

North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  How men have mistaken their duties and callings in this life especially, in marrying, if the recommendations, and Scripture quotations or rather misquotations, we heard yesterday and last evening be true.  A goodly company gathered at the fifteenth Anniversary of the wedding life of Mr. and Mrs. S.W. Smith at their residence in North Norwich, Sept. 16th.  There we heard some elderly men, and even women, express the opinion that those who led a life of celibacy were the happiest people.  Well, we didn't just agree with them, that's all.  Do you?  And we thought the couple, whose anniversary we attended were of our opinion, especially, when friends come flocking in from your own village and vicinity, and friends from their home village, and from the "regions beyond," gathered, bringing their gifts, not perhaps of gold and frankincense, and myrrh, but gifts substantial, gifts betokening the kind regards of the donors, until anniversary gifts of nearly sixty dollars were left to cheer and make light hearts for the happy recipients.  Such tokens of friendship are helps over the hard place of life showing more of light than shade, more of substance than shadow, more of love than hate, more of beauty and brightness than unloveliness and darkness in these scenes of our mortal life. Again, another couple of our opinion, for in the midst of this anniversary scene, they thought it not amiss to pligth their faith each to the other in holy wedlock.  Mr. Geo. B. Crandall and Miss Laura I. Russell of your village, here at the festive scene to commemorate fifteen years of the wedding life of the sister of the bridegroom, took upon themselves the vows to love, cherish, and honor each other, until death should break up the happy union.  The services of the marriage over, we sat down to a table loaded with the good things of the season and all went merry as a marriage bell, until the "wee small hours of the morning."  We opine that the majority of the company present would vote with us on this marrying question.  Were all mankind of the opinion of the few, what a world of old bachelors and old maids and tabby cats and poodle dogs.

CRANDALL - RUSSELL:  At the residence of S.W. Smith in North Norwich, September 16th, by Rev. B.B. Carruth, Mr. George B. Crandall, to Miss L. Isabellea Russell, both of Norwich.

Thaddeus S. Monroe

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, September 23, 1875

Mr. Thaddeus S. Monroe of Whitney's Point [Broome Co., NY], employed as a book keeper by the firm Snook, Collins & Co. of that place, and formerly a clerk at the Dwight House, went to the Cafferty House on Saturday last and engaged a room, telling the porter who showed him to the apartment, which was on the third floor, not to call him until Monday.  Mr. Monroe, being acquainted with Mr. L.C. Cafferty, the manager, and having called at the house on the day before, and being somewhat under the influence of liquor, as it is reported he had been for several days past, did not register his name, and his request not to be called till Monday, exerted no surprise.  Entering in this informal manner, little was thought about him, and those who knew of his taking the room supposed that he went away the next morning.  Yesterday morning, however, the night clerk, Mr. Herbert E. Stone, went to the room to open it for a guest of the house, when the door was found locked, with the key inside.  The door was forced open when the party were shocked by the sight of Mr. Monroe's dead body lying in the bed, where it had evidently been since Saturday afternoon.  His head lay on the edge of the bed, with a slop bucket directly under.  A two ounce vial labeled laudanum lay on the floor under a bureau, where ha had thrown it, nearly emptied, and the room was filled with the odor of the drug.  A note was found in the slop bucket, addressed to the manager of the hotel, with the words, "I'm tired of life.  If I owe you anything, E.S. will make it all right."  Mr. Monroe was about thirty-three years of age and leaves a wife and three children, now residing at Whitney's Point.  He was  highly esteemed by a large circle of acquaintances to whom such a terrible act was, of course, wholly unexpected.  He was one of the first to enlist in the late was and served for two years with honor.   Times, Sept. 21.

Death Notices

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, January 17, 1895

VanWARNER:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 7, 1895, Miss Estelle Van Warner, aged 14.

GILMORE:  In West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 5, 1895, Mr. Samuel Gilmore aged 68, a Civil War veteran.

BUCKLEY:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 8, 1895, Mrs. Charles Buckley, formerly of N.Y. City, aged 29 years.

STROHMAN:  In West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 3, 1895, Mary L. [Strohman], daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Strohman, aged 4 years, 7 months.

ROGERS:  In McGrawville, N.Y. [Allegany Co.] Jan. 15, 1895, Hattie [Rogers], wife of Thomas Randall Rogers, aged 51 years and a sister of Mrs. T. Spencer Baker of Norwich.

MOORE:  In Pittsfield [Otsego Co., NY], Jan. 2, 1895, Mrs. Mary W. Moore, formerly of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], aged 66 years.

LILLIBRIDGE:  In Akron, Iowa, Dec. 21, 1894, Ellen Sarah Hoyt [Lillibridge], wife of Walter G. Lillibridge, aged 42 years.  A niece of Mrs. Sarah Edwards of Oxford with whom she had lived.

BACON:  In Southwick, Conn. Dec. 6, 1894, Lucian Bacon, Esq., aged 68 years.  He was a cousin of H.L. Barnes of No. Pharsalia.

Vital Records (July 17)

Hannah Lydia (Hatton) Brown

Afton Enterprise, March 9, 1899

Mrs. Edward Brown died Wednesday at her home in Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], aged 54 years.  The funeral was hedl friday at the Union Valley M.E. church, Rev. C.H. Sackett officiating.  Burial was at Union Valley [West Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].  

Augusta Dutton Eaton

Afton Enterprise, March 30, 1899

The burial services of Mrs. Augusta Dutton Eaton were held at the residence of B.B. Hyde Saturday afternoon, March 25, conducted by Rev. Henry Hill, interment in Glenwood cemetery [Afton, Chenango Co., NY].  Mrs. Eaton died of pneumonia at her home in Willet, Cortland county, Thursday afternoon, aged 74 years.  Beside her husband she leaves three sons and a daughter.  S.D. and Warren Dutton brothers of the deceased are now the only remaining members of this family.  Mrs. Eaton formerly resided here [Afton, NY] and was most highly esteemed.

Melissa (Landers) Wilkins

Afton Enterprise, November 21, 1901

Mrs. Melissa Wilkins of North Afton [Chenango Co., NY] died at the home of her son, Charles, on Friday.  The funeral was on Sunday from the home.  Rev. H.C. Merrill officiating, and interment was in Glenwood cemetery [Afton, Chenango Co., NY].  Mrs. Wilkins was nearly ninety-two years old, and retained her mental and bodily faculties perfectly until the last.  She has been a life long member of the Baptist church of this place.  Her maiden name was Landers and she was from the east side of the river, hence had lived in this vicinity for nearly a century.  She was married to Lyman Wilkins about sixty-eight years ago, having lived all that time in the old homestead. She was greatly beloved, and her death removes one of the landmarks of the community.

Henry Kirby

Died July 25, 1914, Bainbridge, NY

Henry Kirby, who was operated upon Thursday forenoon for appendicitis, died Saturday evening at about 11 o'clock.  Kirby, who was 16 years of age, was very popular in the village and his sudden death saddened a large circle of friends.  He was a student of the High school and during the past season was chiefly responsible for the good showing of the High school baseball team, winning nearly all the games by his good pitching.  He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ned Kirby, but both his parents having been dead several years, he lived with his aunt, Miss Mary Kirby, on North Main street.

Harriet (Landers) Bond

Died July 24, 1914, Afton, NY

Mrs. Harriet Bond passed away at her late home on Algerine St. [Afton, Chenango Co., NY] Friday evening July 24.  She had been confined to her bed for over a year.  She was born in this vicinity Oct. 22, 1827 and was the daughter of Joseph Landers and Zruaeh Warner.  One daughter, Mrs. Florence Parker and two half brothers and sisters survive; Mrs. Mary Cable and Mrs. Jane Johnston; Asa and Osborn Landers. The funeral was conducted Monday afternoon by Rev. C.O. Fuller. The body interred in the East Side Cemetery [Afton, NY].

The Chenango Telegraph, September 23, 1875

Married

ECCLESTON  - LATHAM:  At the home of the bride in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th[?] inst.  by Rev. W.J. Judd, assisted by Rev. J.G. Rokman, Mr. Hosea E. Eccleston to Miss Laura K. Latham, all of Norwich.

CRANDALL -RUSSELL:  At No. Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] Sept. 16, by Rev. B.B. Carruth, Mr. George B. Crandall to Miss Leeta I Russell, both of Norwich, NY.

PURDY - BOSWELL:  AT Howard Lake, Minn., at the residence of the bride's father, by Rev. Frank H. Newton, W.H. Purdy, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Mary M. Biswell, of Howard Lake, Minn.

WORDEN - VAN TASSELL:  At the M.E. Parsonage in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Aug. 22, 1875, by Rev. K.W. Caswell, Mr. F.H. Worden and Miss U.J. Van Tassell, both of Oxford, N.Y.[Chenango Co.}.

ROBERTS - HARRINGTON:  At the M.E. Parsonage in Sidney [Delaware Co.., NY], Sept. 14, 1875, by Rev. E.W. Caswell, Mr. W.H. Roberts and Miss Eva Harrington, both of Sidney. N.Y.

BREED - HORTON:  At the residence of the bride's father, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Sept 15, by Rev. L.M.S. Haynes, Mr. William R. Breed, Jr., and Miss Flora A. Horton.  

FAULKNER - COOK:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., by Rev. H.S. Jones, Mr. Smith Faulkner and Miss Marta K. Cook, all of Smyrna.

CROWELL - HALL:  In Lebanon [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., by Rev. C.O. Johnson, Mr. Lamott Crowell of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Cornelia Hall of Lebanon.

RATHBONE - WELLS:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 8 at the house of the bride's father, by Rev. Dr. F. Rogers, Mr. Samuel Rathbone to Miss Eva E. [Wells], youngest daughter of Mr. Derrick Wells.

GREENE - RATHBONE:  At the residence of the bride's father in Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 8, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Charles L. Green, of Binghamton, N.Y. [Broome Co.], to Miss Mary [Rathbone], daughter of L. B. Rathbone, Esq.

ENSIGN - DANIELS:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], at the Baptist Church, Sept. 9th, by Rev. Jas. D. Webster, Dr. Lucian P. Ensign to Miss Carrie A. Daniels, all of the above named place.

Died

GRANT:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 21, Lydia [Grant], wife of Francis Grant, aged 55 years.

DRESSER:  In Illinois, Aug. 15, with cancer of the stomach, George Dresser, aged 54 years.  Mr. Dresser was a native of Homer, Cortland County, and for the last twenty years was a resident of Chicago, Ills., and was engaged as law agent in various kinds of business.  He served his country two years, and was honorably discharged for disability; has since been engaged as banking agent.  Was a man upright in business, commanding the respect and esteem of all who knew him.

KIRBY:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 12, 1875, Joseph Kirby, aged 77 years.

HYDE:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 13, 1875, of typhoid fever, Augustus [Hyde], oldest son of D.A. and Violett Hyde, aged 18 years.

JARRETT:  In the town of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], Sept. 12, 1875, Amelia [Jarrett], daughter of Jeremiah Jarrett, aged 8 years.

KERSHAW:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th int., Mr. John Kershaw, aged 71 years and 1 month.

PORTER:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., Mrs. Martha E. [Porter], wife of Mr. Frank Porter, and daughter of Jarvis A. Crosby, aged 22 years and 8 mos.

FISKE:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 21, at the residence of her son-in-law, C.A. Houghton, Mrs. Delany Fiske, aged 76 years.

Vital Records - October-November 1846

Binghamton Courier, October 7, 1846

Married

On Tuesday morning, Oct. 6 by the Rev. Edward Andrews, D.D., Mr. Charles Rogers of this place [Binghamton, Broome Co., NY], to Miss Amelia [Squires], daughter of Henry Squires, Esq., of Conklin [Broome Co., NY].

Tribute to the Lost

Binghamton Courier, October 7, 1846

Messrs. Congdon and Whiting of this place, have been employed by the citizens of  Tunkhannock, Pa., to prepare a suitable monument to be erected to the memory of Nelson G. Harding, and Hiram Harding, brothers, citizens of that place; who were lost in February last, in the ship John Minturn, off Squam Beach, N. Jersey.  The monument is a plain white marble slab, 37 1-2 inches wide by 7 ft 8 in long.  Its only ornament is a tomb shaded by a couple of willows, and beneath are two sunk medallions containing the names and ages of the two unfortunate youths.  Their ages were respectively 25 and 23.  Still below is the following inscription:  "After a long absence, these brothers, returning with high hopes and cheering prospects, to meet fond relations and associates, perished on board the ship, John Minturn off Squam Beach, Feb. 16, A.D. 1846, sincerely lamented by a large circle of affectionate friends and acquaintances."  The stone will remain at the shop of Messrs. Congdon & Whiting until sometime next week; and as a specimen of good workmanship, aside from the melancholy event it is intended to commemorate, is well worthy of the examination of our citizens.

Binghamton Courier, October 14, 1846

Married

In Chenango [Broome Co., NY], Wednesday Oct. 7, by Townsend Bagley Esqr., Mr. Henry Kirk to Miss Fanny M. Osborn, daughter of Mr. Franklin Osborn.

Died

At Truxton, Cortland Co. on the 4th inst., Susan Caldwell [Doubleday], only child of Rev. Wm. T. and Francis M. Doubleday, aged 16 months.

Binghamton Courier, October 21, 1846

Married

In Christ's Church, Binghamton [Broome Co.., NY], on the 20th inst., by the Rev. Dr. Andrews, Mr. H.K. Murray, merchant of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Virginia [Dickinson], eldest daughter of Hon. D.S. Dickinson.

Died

On the 7th ult., Mrs. Sophia E. Wheeler, wife of Franklin G. Wheeler Esq., of Windsor [Broome Co., NY].  The deceased was universally beloved by all who enjoyed her intimate acquaintance.  She was an exemplary member of the Old School Presbyterian Church.  Her death was sudden, but they who mourn her departure do it not as those without hope.  A fond husband indeed has been deprived of one who was eminently a "help meet for him," and his young children of a most affectionate and gifted mother--society of a valued member, and the church to which she belonged, of one of its ornaments.  But drops of mercy have been mingled in the cup of bereavement.  Her death bed was one of those scenes "privileged beyond the common walks of life," and many who were permitted to stand around it, a few days previous to his dissolution, will not soon forget the lessons that were there impressed.

"Thus star by star declines,

Till all are passed away.

As morning high and higher shines

To pure and perfect day;

Nor sink those stars in empty night,

But hide themselves in heaven's own light."

Binghamton Courier, November 4, 1846

Married

In Otego, Otsego county, on the 20th inst., by the Rev. M.M. Wakeman, Col. William T. Broadfoot of Conklin [Broome Co., NY], to Miss Lodema [Smith], daughter of Mr. John Smith, of the former place.

In Milford, Otsego Co. on the 22d inst., by Rev. L. Bolton, Mr. Leroy Hollister, of Colesville [Broome Co., NY] to Miss J. Hellon Rose, adopted daughter of Mr. Alvin Lyon of Milford.

In Colesville [Broome Co., NY], Oct. 29th, by the Rev. M. Dyer, Mr. A.S. Vosbury, of Windsor [Broome Co., NY] to Miss Harriet E. [Tyrrell] daughter of Harmon R. Tyrrell, of the former place.

In Orwell, Vt. on the 6th inst., by the Rev. R.S. Cushman, Mr. B.H. Overmiser, of this village [Binghamton, Broome Co., NY], to Lucretia Griswold, of the former place.

In Colesville [Broome Co., NY], Oct. 29th, by the Rev. M. Dyer, Mr. Aaron Willson to Miss Randall, both of Chenango [Broome Co., NY].

Binghamton Courier, November 11, 1846

Married

In Colesville [Broome Co., NY], Nov. 1st, by the Rev. M. Dyer, Mr. Lewis H. Draper of the same place, to Miss Deborah B. Maben of Lysander, Onondaga Co., N.Y.

In Union Village [Broome Co., NY], on the 4th inst., at the residence of Allen Cowdrey, Mr. Chauncey Wade to Miss Hannah Cowdrey, both of Lisle [Broome Co., NY].

In this village [Binghamton, Broome Co., NY], on the 7th inst., by B.N. Loomis, Esq., Mr. Caleb N. Soule to Elizabeth Haynes all of this village.

Died

In this village [Binghamton, Broome Co., NY], on Tuesday last, at the residence of his son, Mr. Isaac Lanterman, aged 92 years and 6 months.

In Hudson, Ohio, Oct. 3d, of chill fever, Mr. Cydus Tenny, aged 34 years.

In Binghamton, Oct. 30th, of consumption, Mr. Joel B. Starkweather, aged 27 years.  The deceased was the second son of Dea. Reuben Starkweather of this village, and a young man of great worth and exemplary piety.  He leaves a wife and one child, and a large circle of friends to mourn his departure; who are consoled however by the reflection that he died in the triumphs of the Christian's faith.

Sad Accident

Binghamton Courier,  November 18, 1846

On Thursday last in the town of Barker [Broome Co., NY], a son of Mr. Elias Newman, five or six years old, was killed instantly by being thrown from a wagon.  He was riding with Mr. Jonathan Strickland, who stopped a moment at Mr. Love's blacksmith's shop, leaving the boy alone in the wagon; when the horses suddenly took fright, whirled around the shop, and the wagon coming in contact with a block of wood, the lad was thrown out with great violence; and it is supposed his neck was broken.  He breathed once or twice only after he was taken up, and expired.

Vital Records (July 15)

Andrew Jackson Boyce

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 29, 1890

Andrew Jackson Boyce, who died at his home in Nineveh, N.Y. [Broome Co., NY], April 27, 1890, of heart trouble, was born in Mt. Upton [Chenanogj Co., NY], April 18, 1834.  He was the son of the late Russell Boyce, of Mt. Upton, being the eighth of a family of twelve children, five of whom survive.  At an early age he showed signs of mechanical genius and at eighteen came to Nineveh to work at blacksmithing for his brother Edwin, then for J.W. Hobbs, and for the past twenty-two years has worked at fancy carriage ironing for Hobbs Bros., the well known carriage builders of that place.  He was a painstaking industrious mechanic, and few men in his line could accomplish so difficult tasks in forging iron.  In 1871, he married Julia E. Olendorf, who survives him.  He had built a beautiful house, and was very pleasantly situated.  His funeral was attended by a large concourse of friends and acquaintances, at his home, April 29th, and his remains deposited in Nineveh cemetery.

Flora Mathewson

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 29, 1890

The friends and neighbors of Flora, wife of William Mathewson, were grieved to learn of her death, which occurred at their home, about one mile above King Settlement, and in the town of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] on Sunday morning, May 18, 1890.  For a week she had been confined to her bed, and bore with true womanly resignation the intense suffering, when death at last came to her relief.  Sad, indeed, is the stricken and desolate home, the bereaved husband and two little ones, (a boy of three and an infant daughter only one week old) who are left to mourn her loss.  With what anxious and solicitous love she had looked forward to the advent of this tiny jewel.  But alas!  the anticipation was soon to be dispelled.  In the beautiful and impressive sermon preached by the officiating clergyman, Rev. L.C. Hayes, how forcibly and with lucidness did he illustrate the death of this beloved wife and mother, by likening it to that of Rachel, who with Jacob had prayed and waited patiently years for the consummation of their dearest hopes, and when at last Benjamin was laid in Jacob's arms, Rachel rendered up her life in return.  In her home the deceased had unfolded those traits of character which made her affable, sympathetic and loving.  "She always made home happy."  What better tribute can be offered to the memory of the loved and lost?  Eloquence with her loftiest eulogy, poesy with her most thrilling dirge, could afford nothing so sweet, so touching, so suggestive of the virtues of the dead, as those simple works:  "She always made home happy."  In her death the husband, children, neighbors and friends have suffered and irreparable loss.  Let us hope that "Our loss is her gain."

Susan Shepard

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 29, 1890

Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY]:  Susan Shepard, generally known as "Aunt Susan," died at the home of Mrs. Fradenburg, on Friday, and was buried on Saturday afternoon.  She was ninety-three years of age, and had been an invalid for the past five years. She was a sister of Trowbridge Shepard, a former owner of the Comstock drug store, and who received injuries' at a fire in this village some thirty years ago, from which he died.  She had no relatives in this vicinity, and none of her relatives from far or near were in attendance at the funeral.

Gladding Family Bible Entries

James C. Gladding, Born Thursday Nov. 12th 1813 in Bristol, R.I.

Mary Ann Fargo, Born Saturday July 3d, 1813 in Pharsalia, N.Y.

Were joined in Holy Matrimony by B. Reynolds on the 4th Feb. 1835

Elisa Ann Gladding, Born Monday Dec. 31st, 1835

Squire James Gladding Born Tuesday Feb. 13th, 1838

Mary Jane Gladding, Born Monday March 16th, 1840

Albert Franklin Gladding, Born Friday, Dec. 9th, 1843

Cynthia Anneh Gladding, Born Sunday, July 27th, 1845

Nancy Corlin Gladding, Born Saturday Aug. 28th, 1847

Rose Adelle Gladding, Born Monday July 1st, 1850

Benjamin Fargo Gladding, Born Tuesday March 29th, 1853

John Edward Gladding, Born Monday June 2, 1856

Squire James Gladding, Born Tuesday Feb. 13, 1838

Sallie M. Brown, Born Oct. 31, 1839

Were united in the Holy bonds of matrimony Aug. 28, 1860

Lester Adon Gladding, Born Friday Sept. 30, 1864

Mary M. Gladding, Born Tuesday Nov. 26, 1869

Ralph Gladding Born March 22, 1870

Squire James Gladding, died Aug. 11th, 1874,  at Columbus, Kansas

James C. Gladding, died Aug. 8, 1892

Mary Ann Gladding, died Sep. 15, 1900

Sally M. Gladding, died Apr. 1926

Mary M. Gladding, wife of George Bacon, died June 14, 1953 in Buffalo

Ralph Gladding, died in Lake Como, Florida, May 15, 1944

Vital Records (July 14)

Ellis - Rich

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, December 28, 1882

A large circle of invited friends from this and other towns gathered at the residence of P.C. and R. Rich, last Wednesday (20th inst.) to witness the celebration of the nuptial ties between Benjamin F. Ellis and Miss Angelia E. Rich, the amiable daughter of the late Ira Rich. At the appointed hour, 1 P.M., the bridal pair, supported by the ushers, Messers, George Salisbury and H.H. Barre, entered the tastefully arranged parlor, and took their position, where in an imposing manner, they were joined in Hymen's bonds by Rev. J.N. Berry. After the ceremonies an elegant supper was served, which was bountifully partaken of, reflecting credit "mostly," perhaps, upon the cook. The happy pair started immediately for New York City, on their tour, followed by the "significant shoe," and the best wishes of all.  May they so happily united tread "life's rough way" with confidence and life unshaken.  

Polly Cleveland - 100th birthday

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, December 28, 1882

The one hundredth anniversary of the birth of Mrs. Polly Cleveland was celebrated at the residence of her grandson, Charles Cleveland, near Morrisville, on Saturday last.  About thirty persons, nearly all relatives, were present, and it was a most pleasant reunion.  During her life the venerable lady has attended to all the duties of a housewife, but on Saturday she decided not to do any more work. She retains the use of all her faculties and strength to a remarkable degree.

Desertion

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, December 28, 1882

James E. Jones, for a number of years past the leading machinist in Lyon's Iron Works in this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], deserted his wife on Tuesday of last week, and it is alleged that he has eloped with a young woman by the name of Rosa Hindsman, a former resident of Coventry, but recently employed as a domestic in several families in town, and among the number that of the runaway Jones.  He left his wife in destitute circumstances, his household furniture being heavily mortgaged, and scarcely anything in the house to eat.  He even took $4 belonging to his wife, all the money in her possession.

This girl Hindsman has been living in Binghamton for some time past, with Miss Hill, a dressmaker, and there she claimed that she was married to Jones, and on Thanksgiving day Jones visited her at that place, and that night they roomed together as husband and wife.  It is alleged that Jones has been to Binghamton several times of late, and each time spending the night in her company.  It is also asserted that Jones has been preparing for this elopement for some time, running in debt for many of his household wants, and keeping his earnings in his pocket.  Letters addressed by Jones to the foolish girl he has ruined and run away with have been intercepted, the contents of which were of the usual love sick and dish water sentiment, he calling her his dear wife in each of these sickening, silly and criminal epistles.

Jones is a fine mechanic, and earned $15 per week.  He had no family but his wife, and being a man of good habits - that is as far as drinking or spending money foolishly about town is concerned - must have had quite a sum in his possession.  He was a member of the M.E. choir, and we are told held daily family worship.  We never heard a lisp against the virtue or good character of the wife this man Jones has so cruelly and wantonly deserted; but there are people who say that they did not live harmoniously together.  Be this as it may, Jones had no apparent excuse for deserting the woman he had vowed to love, cherish  and protect, and unlawfully join himself to a weak and foolish girl, and become an outcast in the world and a criminal wanderer on the face of the earth.  With the knowledge that it is said some of his creditors possessed of this affair before it culminated in their elopement, it is strange that this man was allowed to make his escape. We understand that he was seen about Binghamton the day he left here, and his arrest and final punishment for the offences he had committed would have been an easy matter at that time.  Greene American

Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 13, 1884

We understand that James K. Jones, who eloped with Rosa  Hinesman, from this village, some two years ago, is now living in Detroit, Mich., and working in a foundry in that city.  We also understand that Mrs. Jones, his lawful wife, visited him in that city a few weeks since, and had an interview with the gay and festive James.  Jones professed a willingness to return to Greene, and live with wife no. 1, if he could return to his old quarters in Lyon's Iron Works, be restored to the Methodist church, and his creditors keep mum, or in other words have his religious, political and domestic standing restored to him in all its virgin purity. That's fair enough we should say. There is nothing mean about Jim, and if he returns we are in for meeting him at Chenango Forks with a big delegation of citizens, headed by the band.  We never prided ourselves on our oratorical powers, but you can set us down for the speech of welcome.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, December 28, 1882

Marriages

BUSH - WAITE:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on Christmas eve, by Rev. I.T. Walker, Mr. William Bush, of Phoenix Mills, Otsego Co., N.Y., to Miss Martha J. Waite, of Norwich.

STILES - WILCOX:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 13th, by Rev. A.W. Barrows, Mr. Eugene Stiles, to Miss Sarah Linn Wilcox, both of Smithville.

SHERWOOD - CALKINS:  In Beaver Meadow [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 20th, by Rev. A.R. Bancroft, Mr. Lafayette Sherwood, to Miss Myrtle Calkins, all of Otselic [Chenango Co., NY].

BUELL - TITUS:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 20th, by Rev. G.S. Ricker, Mr. Blin H. Buell, to Miss Alice E. Titus, both of North Norwich.

MARSHMAN - ROSA:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 24th, by Rev. L.W. Peck, Mr. Charles H. Marshman, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Ida M. Rosa, of Oxford.

KIRBY - KING:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 19th, by Rev. J.S. Lee, Mr. Charles C. Kirby, to Miss Ettie King, both of Bainbridge.

POPE - SLATER:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], Dec. 7th, by Rev. W.H. Olin, Mr. Frank H. Pope of Boston, to Miss Alice J. Slater, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

BROWNING - SMITH:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 20th, by Rev. J.L. Wells, Mr. William H. Browning, of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY] to Mrs. Elnett Smith, of Smyrna.

GIBSON - LANSDALE:  At the Church of the Messiah, in Baltimore, Md., Dec. 13th, 1882, Mr. George R. Gibson of Summit, N.J., (formerly of Norwich) to Miss Mollie V. Lansdale, of Baltimore.

BEARDSLEE - ALVORD:  In Torrington, Ct., Dec. 13th, by Rev. L. Perrin, Rev. C.S. Beardslee, of DeMarc, Iowa (formerly of Greene) to Miss Emma G. Alvord, of Torrington.

WOOSTER - STOWELL:  At the First Presbyterian Chruch, Brighton, N.Y., Dec. 20th, by Rev. Dr. J.E. Page, assisted by Rev. G. Copeland, Mr. Samuel C. Wooster, of Albany, to Miss Anna L. Stowell, of Brighton.

LOVE - BROOKS:  In Milwaukee, Wis., Dec. 20th, Dr. Herbert B. Love, of Minneapolis, Minn., to Miss Hattie B. Brooks, sister of Dr. L.J. Brooks, of Norwich.

Deaths

O'ROURK:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co.., NY], Dec. 15th, Mrs. Hannah O'Rourk, aged 58 years, 9 months and 10 days.

TOBIN:  At Lincklaen Centre, Dec. 15th, Mr. John Tobin, aged about 58 years.

CORBLEY:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 20th, Mr. Edward Corbley, aged 83 years.

LANDERS:  in Smithville [Chenango Co., nY], Dec. 23d, Mr. Avery Landers, aged 53 years.

Murder of Robert Peasley - 1886

Murder of Robert Peasley

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, September 11, 1886

Sidney was the scene of an exciting tragedy, Friday.  About 9 o'clock this morning, near the depot, Robert Peasley was shot and instantly killed by Samuel P. Hill. We are informed that the difficulty between the two men originated in the following [manner].  It seems that sometime ago Hill sold and delivered a quantity of potatoes to Peasley's mother.  Since that time Hill, who is noted for his foul mouth and vulgar conversation, had repeatedly made indecent statements which involved her good name, about the transaction. These remarks had come to the ears of Peasley and had justly aroused his anger and indignation. Thursday night Peasley was in Norwich and stayed at the house of Mrs. Eldridge on East Main street, his boarding place.  He was in the employ of the Ontario & Western and was acting as fireman on the mail train which runs from Middletown to this place. Catching a ride on the locomotive attached to through freight, expecting to join his train at Sidney. As the freight train reached the first crossing in that place, Peasley from his seat on the locomotive saw the man Hill in a wagon driving up the street.  Hill's son was with his father.  Peasley hastily jumped from the locomotive and running caught up with Hill and climbed into the seat beside him.  He immediately charged Hill with uttering the vile and slanderous words about his mother and told him if it was true that he said it, he would pound his life out.  

After loud words the two men clinched and began to punch and shove each other.  Peasley grabbed Hill's coat and tore it down the back.  When the fighting had been kept up for some time, Peasley got partly in front of Hill, whereupon the latter pulling a revolver from his hip pocket, reached around Peasley, and holding the muzzle against the former'[s arm shot him dead.  The ball passed through the arm, entered the side and lodged in the heart, producing instant death.  His dead body fell from the wagon.  Hill drove to the village and gave himself into custody.  He was excited and talkative, claimed that the shooting was done in self defense and that he had money to stand a trial and pay his bail. Peasley's body was picked up and carried under a tree, and the coroner summoned.  His wife, who was visiting friends in Eaton, was telegraphed to come home as her husband was sick. She passed through here on the passenger train at 10:40 on her way to Sidney.  She was met here by friends, and though uninformed of his death said she knew her husband was dead.

The principals in this terrible tragedy were socially related, Hill's son having married Peasley's sister.  Hill is a man between fifty-five and sixty years of age and has been notorious in the community for his foul and indecent remarks about women.  He is a farmer and resides within the boundaries of the town of Bainbridge.

Robert Peasley, the victim, was only thirty years old.  He was one of the most trusted employees of the Ontario and Western.  Among railroad men he was famed as an exemplary young man.  He was free from all bad habits, neither drank, smoked or chewed.  His life was insured for $5000, which will [go] to his heart broken widow.  This awful tragedy is but another result of carrying deadly weapons upon the person. The law against concealed weapons ought to be strictly enforced.  Had Hill left his revolver at home--and what need for him to carry such a weapon in a peaceful town like Sidney?--Peasley would not have been mu8rdered and Samuel Hill would not now be a murderer.

The people of Sidney are justly indignant over the high handed crime. They characterize it as a cold blooded and apparently deliberate murder  During the forenoon an excited crowd gathered and threatened to lynch Hill.  He drew his revolver and kept them at bay.  At least five men witnessed the whole transaction.  Coroner Bundy, of Deposit, was summoned and is holding an inquest. The ball passed into Peasley's right lung.

Sidney Record, September 1886

In mid-September the village [Sidney, Delaware Co., NY] was shocked by a brutal act of murder.  A fine young man was shot and killed by a middle-aged farmer right in the middle of River Street near the Camel's Back, Robert Peasley, a brakeman on the Ontario who lived in Middletown and who was moving up in railroading was the victim.  Sam Hill, his assailant, is a farmer residing about 1-1/2 miles toward Bainbridge on the south side of the Susquehanna.  Mr Hill's son, Arthur, married Peasley's sister and there had been a great deal of family trouble between them.  Only a week before there had been a scandalous scene at the younger Hill's house on Clinton Street and pretty vile language had been used.

On Sept. 10th, Mr. Hill was driving to town and had just crossed the railroad when he met his son, stopping his rig to talk with him.  Just then young Peasley dropped off a passing engine and came down to the rig.  Witnesses state that there were words between him and the elder  Hill, then Peasley reached into the wagon and attempted to haul him out.  In this effort he stepped into the wagon and seized Mr. Hill around the neck.  A small exploding sound was heard and Peasley rose up, fell stumbling out of the wagon where young Arthur Hill tried to support him.  In just a few moments he was dead from a gunshot wound.  Sam Hill then drove upstreet to the Justice of Peace, Billy Pierce, and surrendered to arrest.  

After 40 days of confinement in Delhi County Jail, Mr. Hill was indicted for 2nd degree murder.  He was released on bail for $20,000 in November and will be tried by jury in the Spring Term.  The community was greatly excited by this turn of events.  Everyone speaks well of young Peasley.  We are not very proud of such doings in our village, and it seems a bit unjust that neither of the principals, Hill or Peasley, were local residents.  One lives in Chenango County, the other came from Orange County, but they met here to have their trouble.  The whole affair is shocking and terrible.

Trial of Samuel P. Hill

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, October 9, 1890

The trial of Samuel P. Hill for the murder of Robert Peasley, in Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], four years ago, which was before the Court of Oyer and Terminer at Delhi, last week, resulted in a verdict of manslaughter in the second degree, and he was sentenced to Auburn State prison for a term of five years and two months.  Hill immediately applied to the Court and obtained a stay of proceedings to allow an appeal.

Samuel P. Hill is a farmer living in the town of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], about two miles below Sidney. On Friday, September 10, 1886, Hill shot and instantly killed Robert Peasley, in the village of Sidney.  Peasley was a fireman on the O.&W.  Hill was indicted by the Grand jury in October, 1886, for murder in the second degree.  He was tried in March, 1887, and found guilty of manslaughter in the second degree, and sentenced by Judge Arbuckle to ten years hard labor in Auburn State prison.  The prisoner was then 61 years old.  Application was immediately made for a new trial, and Hill was admitted to bail in the sum of $10,000.  In September, 1888, the General Term granted him a new trial.  The decision and the recent trial followed.

Death of Samuel P. Hill

Gone to a Higher Court

Sidney Record, March 9, 1895

In announcing the death of Samuel P. Hill, the great shadowing event of the latter years of his life, with the remarkable legal strife that followed it, comes vividly to mind.  It is useless to harrow the public with the details of a tragedy so minutely known throughout this entire section of country.  The principals are now in the Valley of the Shadow of Death, why disturb their rest?  Now beyond the ken of human strife, they have gone before the Supreme Judge, before whom all deeds in the flesh must be answered for.  It is now into his hands that the case has passed for adjudication, and so mote it be.

Mr. S.P. Hill's death at 12:30 p.m. last Monday, did not take this community by surprise.  It was an event, from the nature of his malady, that had long been anticipated.  Several weeks ago a malignant cancer declared itself under his chin, extending over his neck into the region of the chest. It became a mere question of time when the carotid arteries would be attacked, then the fatal moment would immediately follow.  Mr. Hill suffered great agony from his remorseless malady, and death came in the guise of a friend to relieve his sufferings.  Mr. Hill was 68 years of age.  He was born in the town of Roxbury, on a farm adjoining the Gould homestead.  Jay Gould and young Hill were school mates and boon companions in those days.  He moved to Sidney in the year 1867 and purchased the farm he has owned ever since and known at that time as the Erastus Parker farm.  Mr. Hill was twice married.  His second wife survives him, and three children by his first wife, Arthur W. Hill, Fred Hill and Mrs. James Stewart, of Waterville, Kan.  The funeral was held last Thursday at 1 o'clock, p.m., and the remains were deposited in the receiving vault of Prospect Hill cemetery. [Sidney].

Vital Records (July 13)

Mary Mead Hill

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, October 9, 1890

This estimable lady, widow of the late Theodore Hill, expired at her residence in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] on Tuesday of this week.  It was a death that did not come unexpectedly to herself or others, she and her family and intimate friends having been prepared, through her long illness and suffering, for the sad change that has taken place.  Yet when the fated hour of departure came, it was with a suddenness and a shock that could but tough the hearts and sensibilities of all who knew her.  Mrs. Hill was, in every sense of the word, a lovely and accomplished woman, conscientious and faithful in the discharge of every duty, a worthy exemplar of social and Christian virtues.  Her life was a benison, loving and fragrant in its devotion to the good and happiness of others, as her death is a benediction and an example of the highest fortitude, resignation and faith.  Mrs. Hill was a daughter of the late Allen Mead and wife, and was born in this village in 1832, in the house in which she died, and in which she had always lived.  Her education was mainly acquired in the Norwich Academy, though for a time she was a pupil at Mrs. Willard's famous school at Troy.  In June, 1860, she was united to Theodore Hill, then of McDonough, in marriage.  Surviving her she leaves an only child and daughter, Linda Theodora Hill, to whom is tendered the sympathy of the entire community in her affliction. She also leaves one sister, Mrs. S.N. Ruggles, of this village, and four brothers, residents of the west.  Mrs. Hill, besides being a lady of cultivated taste, was an artist of decided ability and skill.

William Hayden

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, October 9, 1890

William Hayden, of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], departed this life September 22d, 1890.  He had lived to the good old age of 73 years.  He was born in Ludlow, Mass. and settled in McDonough in 1837.  He was greatly beloved by his family and the large funeral of his friends and neighbors was a strong testimony of the esteem with which they regarded him.  He leaves a widow, two daughters and a son to mourn his loss.  His loving faith is best expressed by these lines of Tennyson:

"O yet we trust that somehow good

Will be the final goal of ill,

To pangs of nature, sins of will,

Defects of doubt and taints of blood:

"That nothing walks with aimless feet.

That not one life shall be destroyed.

Nor cast as rubbish to the void.

When God hath made the pile complete."

The funeral services were very acceptably conducted by Rev. Amanda Deyo, of Oxford.  Oxford Times

Abner Wood

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, October 9, 1890

The cloudless blue of the sky, the rich autumn coloring of the leaves, and the green meadows, made of our valley a beautiful picture, as the remains of Abner Wood were deposited beside those of his loved ones in Evergreen Cemetery [White Store, Chenango Co., NY], September 30, 1890. The day was like the Christian life of the sleeper, calm and beautiful.  For many years he has been a citizen of De Kalb, Ill. and a pillar in the large church there.  His funeral was attended by a very large concourse of citizens at that place, and Bishop Merrill of Chicago, assisted in the services.  His only child, Olin J., accompanied the remains east, and they were taken off at Bainbridge, the home of his niece, Mrs. Perry Rood.  From there they were brought in a hearse, followed by many friends and the pastor.  The procession grew as it passed up the valley, many of his old friends wishing to join in the last tribute of respect to one who was universally respected and beloved. At the cemetery several friends were in waiting.  Although the burial was one day in advance of the time understood, friends were there from Tully, Bainbridge, Mt. Upton, South New Berlin, and a large number from the vicinity.  Mrs. Wood, a daughter of the late Daniel Cornell, was not able to make the long journey.  She with her son and family, have the sincere sympathy of all in their bereavement.  Mr. Wood had attained the ripe age of seventy-four years, retaining his faculties to the last.

Julia Thurber

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, October 9, 1890

Greene [Chenango Co., NY]:  The remains of Mrs. Julia Thurber, who died at St. Laurence, South Dakota, September 27th, reached this village on Thursday morning of last week, accompanied by her daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. H.J. Wood.  Quite a large number of old neighbors and friends were at the depot on the arrival of the train and accompanied the remains to their last resting place in Sylvan Lawn Cemetery.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, October 9, 1890

Marriages

RATHBON - LETSON:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], October 4, 1890, by Rev. H. Fox, Mr. Charles Rathbon, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Emma Letson, of Norwich.

JOHNSON - BARD:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], October 1, 1890, by Rev. J.B. Wilson, Mr. Frank L. Johnson and Mrs. Mazada Bard, all of Norwich.

CARNEGIE - McNEIL:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], October 1, 1890, by Rev. Amanda Deyo, Mr. Norris Carnegie, of Greene [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Nellie McNeil of Oxford.

INGRAHAM - WELLS:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], September 28, 1890, by Rev. L.D. Turner, Mr. Charles S. Ingraham, of Oxford, and Miss Jennie Wells, of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY].

KIRBY - CABLE:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], August 19, 1890, by Rev. H.T. Perry, Mr. Edward G. Kirby and Miss Effie L. Cable, all of Afton.

CASWELL - DICKINSON:  In Nineveh [Broome Co., NY], September 27, 1890, by Rev. A.M. Colgrove, Mr. Will Caswell, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], and Miss Annis Dickinson, of Nineveh.

Deaths

PRINDLE:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], October 7, 1890, Hon. Elizur H. Prindle, aged 59 years.  Funeral Friday, at 2 P.M.

HILL:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], October 7, 1890, Mary Mead Hill.  Widow of Theodore hill, aged 58 years.  Funeral, Thursday at 2 P.M.  [See obituary above]

DONNELLY:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], October 5, 1890, Nancy [Donnelly], infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Donnelly, aged 2 weeks and 3 days.

UTTER:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], October 1, 1890, Mr. Martin B. Utter, aged 56 years.

MINER:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], September 27, 1890, Mrs. Harriet M. Miner, aged 70 years.  Formerly of Oxford [Chenango C., NY]

BETTS:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], October 2, 1890, Mr. Ephraim Betts, aged 67 years.

HOGAN:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], September 28, 1890, Miss Lizzie Hogan, aged 21 years and 9 months.

CLEMENT:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], September 18, 1890, Abigail Clement, aged 32 years and 8 months.

GOODSON:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], September 30, 1890, Maryette [Goodson], wife of  J. Goodson, aged 58 years.

REYNOLDS:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], September 4, 1890, Mr. Stephen V. Reynolds.

WHEELER:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], October 4, 1890, Mrs. Harvey Wheeler, aged 35 years.

VAN DEUSEN:  In Beaver Meadow [Chenango Co., NY], September 28, 1890, Mrs. Daniel Van Deusen.

WALKER:  In Belvidere, Ill, September 30, 1890, Mrs. T.D. Walker, aged 78 years, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

LEWIS:  In Lisle [Broome Co., NY], October 1, 1890, Mr. Alonzo Lewis, aged 75 years, formerly of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY].

COMPTON:  In Yohogany, Westmoreland Co., Pa., September 25, 1890, Mr. John H. Compton, aged 46 years, formerly of Guilford, Chenango Co., N.Y.

Olive J. Kirby - Spanish Flu Victim - 1918

Olive J. Kirby

Bainbridge Republican, October 17, 1918

Miss Olive J. Kirby, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles C. Kirby of this place [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], died Wednesday afternoon at 1:30 at Fort Plain [Montgomery Co., NY], from pneumonia which followed an attack of the influenza.  She was teacher  of English in the Fort Plain High school and had been engaged there since September, the opening of the present school year.  She was 28 years of age and was a most competent and attractive young lady.  Her activity and vivaciousness made her the center of her home and the leader in every circle where she moved.  Her lovable character and unusual talents gathered about her a warmth of admiration and friendship and her death has caused universal sorrow.

She had been sick since Sunday Oct. 6th.  She was then in Watervliet visiting friends when taken.  Returning to Fort Plain that night she began treatment for what was then considered only an ordinary cold.  On the following Wednesday, pneumonia developed.  her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles C. Kirby were summoned and they hastened there by auto. At the first development of pneumonia she was deemed very sick but there were intermittently hopes of recovery and Tuesday at the turning point of the disease she was believed to be better and indications were bright for her return to health. Dr. Jacobs her physician here, who had been called to Fort Plain in consultation twice, was again summoned early yesterday morning and with Rev. R.W. Nickel, Arthur Kirby and Miss Margaret Kirby reached there some little time before her death.

Miss Kirby was born at the "Pillars" the attractive Kirby homestead, situated midway between Bainbridge and Afton. She received her education at the Bainbridge High School, Syracuse University from which she graduated, also at the Leland Powers school of Expression at Boston. There she achieved high merrit for her excellence in elocution.  Miss Kirby gave many readings and recitals and her talents and skill were always highly acclaimed and most favorably noted.  Last year she took up teaching and filled a position in the Hartwick High School.  In September she took a highly lucrative place at Fort Plain, where she won the friendship of the students and the people of that place.

Miss Kirby was an enthusiastic and loyal member of St Peter's church of this village, and was also interested in the activities of the community and gave her services in the promotion and accomplishment of every worthy movement. The ending of this bright and useful life is pathetic for many had built up their spirits and happiness around her personality which radiated queenly virtues and strengthening influences. A beautiful tribute to her memory is the deep sense of appreciation which is felt for the goodness which her life has taught. The remains, accompanied by her parents and friends came by auto today to the house she left only a few weeks ago when at the zenith of life's hope and possibilities. The funeral will be held sometime Saturday.

Norwich Sun, October 23, 1918

The funeral services for the late Olive Kirby were held in her ancestral home, "The Pillars," Saturday afternoon.  The funeral was private, only a few family friends were present.  The bearers were H.E. Collins, Julian Corby, F.J. Fletcher, Charles Clarke, Lee Newell and C.J. Tabor. The rector of the parish, Rev. R.W. Nickel, read the burial service at the house.  A large number of friends who were not permitted by the stringent order of the health officer to attend the service at the house, assembled in St. Peter's churchyard, where the committal service was read and the body of Olive Kirby was laid to rest in the shadow of the church she had served so faithfully.  Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Noff of Syracuse, Mr. and Mrs. Day Smith and Mr. and Mrs. Bodley of Deposit and Prof. Fred Crumb of Watervliet were present from out of town.  Miss Kirby was teaching at Fort Plain and contracted the influenza, which terminated in pneumonia. She lived only a few days after that disease developed.  She was a highly educated and very attractive young woman, full of life and vitality and will be greatly missed by a very large circle of friends. She is survived by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Kirby.

Health Board Takes Action

Bainbridge Republican, October 10, 1918

At a meeting of the Board of Health on Tuesday of this week the local Health Officer was instructed to forbid all public meetings or gatherings of people except such as pertained to the School and industrial life of the village.  This means that for an indefinite period there will be no entertainments, movies, religious services, sessions of lodges, red cross classes or social gatherings of any nature whatsoever.  The public library will be closed and loitering in front of the Post Office is positively forbidden. Citizens are requested to wait until the mails are distributed before going to the post office for their mail and not to remain there after receiving it.

There are at present but two cases of Spanish Influenza in Bainbridge, one coming from Ilion and the other from Oneonta, after the disease was contracted.  No cases have developed from local infection.

The somewhat stringent regulations of the Health Board are taken for the purpose of preventing such a general spread of the disease here as had taken place in many other localities and with full cooperation of the public it is hoped that our schools and factories may be kept open and the number of cases kept within reasonable bounds.  Children should not be kept out of their school work. There are many reasons why they are safer at school for the present that they would be if permitted to absent themselves from their studies.  Should danger present itself, the school will be closed.

Spanish Influenza

Dr. Danforth Gives Information Concerning this Epidemic

Bainbridge Republican, October 10, 1918

In view of the impending prevalence of the so-called "Spanish" influenza the local health Officer submits the following information:

The disease is not definitely recognized as yet as identical with that which caused the previous great influenza epidemics but is probably excited by the same germ.

The incubation period, or time which passes between exposure and the appearance of the first symptoms is from 1 to 4 days.

The first symptoms are usually those of a severe cold in the head, followed by headache fever, pains in the muscles and general prostration. The throat is red and there may be some cough. The course of the disease is, if uncomplicated, short, and the symptoms usually mild lasting about three or four days.  Some people when infected with this disease have vomiting and diarrhea, the cold in the head symptoms and cough appearing after, but this is not the usual method of attack.

The disease is seldom fatal except from its complications. the most dreaded of which is pneumonia.  It is from this complication that so many of the fatalities in the cantonments are due.

The infection is spread through contact with discharges from the nose and throat scattered through coughing and sneezing, use of common eating utensils, kissing, etc.

Strict quarantine is not found to be practical owing to the very great contagiousness of the disease.  Judgment should be used, however by everybody in making visits to homes where there may be cases of sickness, and patients should be isolated from all except their attendants.

Of greatest importance is the avoidance of promiscuous coughing, sneezing, and expectoration in public places. The public is advised to avoid public gatherings, during the presence of the epidemic.

School teachers should immediately exclude from school, children suffering from cold in the head or showing other evidences of illness.

Vital Records (July 12)

Frank Church

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, January 10, 1878

Last week we gave the particulars, so far as we could obtain them, of the shocking death of Frank Church, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on New Year's night, by falling through the Lyon Brook Bridge, while, in company with two others, he attempted to jump aboard the evening train while in motion.  An inquest was held on Wednesday afternoon, by Coroner Avery; and after viewing the remains at Cary's undertaking rooms, the jury convened at the Court House, where the evidence of Jerry Dye and James Hancock, the companions of deceased on the fatal night, was taken, together with that of John Flynn, a Midland employee, Charles Lindsey, Archibald Lindsey, Dr. W.H. Stuart and Albert Cary. The evidence of Hancock, who was the only one of the party who succeeded in boarding the train, is accepted as the most plausible theory.  He testified that he knew that Church did not get aboard the train, for he saw him running after it and saw him stop on the track after the train passed, about the length of a car behind the train; he thinks that when he saw him (Hancock) get aboard the train, he ran after it, and fell between the ties, as there was a wide space between the ties over where he lay.  A. Cary, undertaker, testified in finding the body about eleven o'clock on Wednesday morning, lying near the south abutment of the bridge, on his face, on the ground, dead;  judged the distance he fell to be nearly fifty feet.  Dr. Stuart testified that he had made an examination of the body, and found two fingers on the right hand, the wrist and right shoulder broken, and the skull fractured.  In accordance with the facts elicited, the jury returned a verdict of accidental death.  Funeral services were held on Friday afternoon, at the residence of the mother of deceased, on North Broad Street, where there was a large attendance of sympathizing friends.  Rev. Messrs. Scoville and Crydenwise officiated.

Mrs. V. P. Clawson

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, January 10, 1878

Died, In Pitcher [Chenango co., NY], January 6th, Mrs. Clawson, wife of V.P. Clawson, aged 25 years.  Mrs. Clawson was taken with a severe headache on Sabbath evening, and life terminated Monday morning.  She leaves three small children to the care of her bereaved husband.

William P. Andrus

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, January 10, 1878

Died, in Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], December 29th, William P. Andrus, aged 64 years.  His remains were taken to DeRuyter for burial.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, January 10, 1878

Marriages

KING - GEER:  At the residence of the Bride's father, Nelson Geer, Esq., Jan. 3d,, by Rev. L.M.S. Haynes, Mr. Tompkins D. King, of Oriskany Falls [Oneida Co., NY], to Miss Emma A. Geer, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

HILLMAN - LEE:  In Greenville, Conn., Jan. 1st, by Rev. Welcome E. Bates, Mr. Roscoe S. Hillman, of Waverly, R.I., to Miss Julia A. Lee, daughter of W.H. Lee of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

RICHARDS - SHERWOOD:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 2d, by Rev. W. Scott, Mr. E.E. Richards, of Kent, Ohio, to Miss Emma A. Sherwood, of South New Berlin.

WILBUR - TITUS:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 8th, by Rev. J.L. Race, Mr. Wesley D. Wilbur, of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Kate Titus, of North Norwich.

TAFFT - TEW:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 1st, by Rev. R. M. Duff, Mr. William Tafft, to Miss Libbie Tew, all of Oxford.

RANDALL - SEELY:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 31st, by Rev. D.C. Haynes, Mr. Charles Henry Randall, to Miss Emma Seely, both of Afton [Chenango Co., NY].

HYDE - MAINE:  In East Hamilton [Madison Co., NY], Dec. 31st, by Rev. Mr. McDonald, Mr. Willie Hyde, of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Lillian Maine, of East Hamilton.

HORTON - ALEXANDER:  In Triangle [Broome Co., NY], Dec. 25th, by Rev. G.C. Andrews, Mr. Stephen Horton of Greene [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Maria A. Alexander, of Triangle.

KELLOGG - COLE:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 1st, by Rev. G. P. Turnbul, Mr. Wilbur Kellogg, of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co., NY] to Miss Cynthia Cole, of Pitcher.

ROGERS - KINGSLEY:  In Preble, Cortland co., Dec. 22d, by Rev. J.E. Long, Mr. Frank E. Rogers of Lincklaen [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Ada M. Kingsley, of Preble.

BACKUS - BROWN:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 23d, by Rev. F.W. Townsend, Mr. Francis M. Backus, to Miss Cora S. Brown.

HALBERT - WARD:  In Georgetown [Madison Co., NY], Dec. 26th, Mr. Eugene Halbert, of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co., NY] to Miss Hannah Ward, of Georgetown.

LIVINGSTON - HI(TCHCOCK:  in Cincinnatus [Cortland Co., NY], Dec. 28th, by Rev. D. Reese, Mr. John Livingston to Miss Percey Hitchcock, both of Cincinnatus.

HATCH - LOWNSBERY:  In Jamestown [Chautauqua Co., NY], Dec. 27th, by Rev. S. Burford, Mr. Charles W. Hatch, to Miss Henrietta Lownsbery, only daughter of Capt. B.F. Lownsbery.

Deaths

DALMAN:  At the residence of Hon. A. Shepardson, in Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 7th, Mrs. Mary Dalman, aged 71 years, mother of Mrs. Shepardson.

SHEPARDSON:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 8th, of pneumonia, Emma [Shepardson], wife of Hon. A. Shepardson, aged 47 years.

SWIFT:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 7th, from injuries received in playing ball, Frank Swift, aged 16 years.

EDWARDS:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 4th, of diphtheria and croup, Alice [Edwards], only child of Mr. and Mrs. George Edwards, aged 2 years and 6 months.

CLAWSON:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 6th, Mrs. Clawson, wife of V.P. Clawson, aged 25 years.

ANDRUS:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 29th, Mr. William P. Andrus, aged 64 years.

LAUNT:  In North Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 8th, Mr. Henry Launt.

MATHEWSON:  At East Guilford, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], Dec. 16, Viola A. [Mathewson], aged 2 years, 1 month and 10 days.  21st, H. Eugene [Mathewson], aged 11 years, 6 months and 13 days. 26th, P. Sheridan [Mathewson], aged 8 years and 3 months. 27th, Frank H. [Mathewson] aged 14 years, 9 months and 13 days.  All of diphtheria. Children of P.L. and Mary A. Mathewson.

GILBERT:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 1st, Mrs. Eunice Gilbert, aged 66 years.

KIRBY:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. ?, Plyna Kirby, aged 65 years.

WOOSTER:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 27th, Mr. Seneca Wooster, aged 27 years.

ATWATER:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 31st, Mrs. Aaron Atwater, aged 80 years.

McMASTER:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 29th, Mrs. Electa McMaster, aged 71 years.

FLETCHER:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 2d, Sarah M. [Fletcher], wife of Joseph H. Fletcher, aged 36 years.

HARRIS:  in Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 31st, Mrs. Minerva Harris, wife of the late Solomon Harris, aged 86 years.

OCKERMAN:  At Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY], Dec. 29th, Almira [Ockerman], wife of Peter Ockerman, aged 35 years.

PRENTICE:  In Port Dickinson, Broome Co., Dec. 29th, Miss Hattie A. Prentice, sister of Mrs. Dr. S.L. Guion, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

MERITHEW:  In Jasper, Steuben Co., Nov. 10th, Mr. Amara Merithew, aged 64 years, formerly of this County.

MORSE:  In New haven, Conn., Dec. 31st, Ellen [Morse], wife of Bennett Morse, and daughter of Thomas Dickinson, Esq., of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 47 years.  Her remains were brought to Guilford for interment.

MESSINGER:  At Oneida Laker, Dec. 2d, Lydia Electa [Messinger], daughter of Osbert E. and Sarah H. Messinger, aged 8 years, 8 months and 4 days.

Now I have done with earthly things,

And all to come is boundless bliss;

My eager spirit spreads her wings

Jesus says "Come", I answer, "Yes."