Vital Records (August 22)

 Johnson - Bartholomew:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th, by the Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. DeForest Johnson, of West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] to Ednah J. Bartholomew of Oxford.  [Oxford Times, Sept. 17, 1856]

Huttleston:  Uncle George Huttleston, one of our old pioneers has passed away at the age of ninety-one years and five months.   He leaves a wife and children to mourn his loss.  Rev. Leach officiated in the Divine services both at the church and grave.  [Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, Jan. 9, 1878]  [Rhode Island Settlement - White Store]

Johnson:  In Utica [Oneida Co., NY], Aug. 5, 1900, Polly [Johnson], of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], aged 50 years.  [Oxford Times, Aug. 15, 1900]

Bush - Johnson:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], October 27, 1900 by Rev. G.F. Humhreys, Ira C. Bush of Nineveh [Broome Co., NY] and Miss Lucy M. Johnson of Afton. [Oxford Press, Sept. 9, 1900]

Frank Church, Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, January 3, 1878:  Frank Church, a resident of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] and brother of District Attorney Church, met his death by a shocking accident at Lyon Brook bridge on Tuesday evening.  On Tuesday morning he went down to the bridge on the Midland train in company with James Hancock, who is employed by the Midland Company to watch the bridge and keep it in order. The two spent the day with Jerry Dye at the house of Daniel Fisher, a short distance from the bridge up the brook, and took supper there.  They then concluded that they would return to Norwich, and thought they would try to jump aboard the evening train, which generally slacks speed at the bridge.  For this purpose they stationed themselves some four or five rods south of the bridge, and when the train approached, Chruch, who stood a short distance nearer the bridge than the others, caught hold of the hand rail of the forward passenger car, while Dye caught at the rear end of the last car.  Dye failed in his attempt to get aboard, and was whirled down the embankment some thirty feet, sustaining severe bruises.  When he got up, the train had crossed the bridge and he, thinking the others had been successful in getting aboard, went down the hill to the brook, and stayed over night at the house of Mr. Lindsey, to whom he related the adventure.  Hancock got safely on the train, and not finding his companions, supposed that they failed to get aboard.  Wednesday morning he returned to his duties at the bridge, and the first object that attracted his attention was the dead body of Church, lying at the foot of the south abutment to the bridge, having evidently fallen through the bridge a distance of forty feet or more.  the head and face were shockingly mutilated, one arm was broken in several places, and the appearances indicated that he must have fallen head foremost.  He was doubtless instantly killed.  The body was removed to a place of safety and word sent at once  to Norwich, when Mr. Cary, the undertaker, and others went down to the scene of the accident and brought the body to Norwich.

There are two theories of the accident.  One, that failing to get a foothold when he clenched the rail, he clung fast as long as his strength permitted, and then dropped, falling through the bridge. the other, and a very plausible one, is that he failed at the first attempt, and then ran after the train hoping to catch hold of the rear car, and in his excitement forgot all about the bridge until he plunged headlong down the abyss.

Deceased was a son of the late William H. Church, and was not yet twenty-one years of age.  He leaves a wife and one small child, an aged mother and several brothers and sisters to mourn his untimely death. The accident, following so closely upon the sudden death of Mr. J ohn S Randall, has caused a feeling of awe to pervade the whole community.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, January 3, 1878

Marriages

WAGNER - ROWE:  At the home of the bride's father, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 27th, by Rev. S. Reavill, Mr. Henry J. Wagner, of Cazenovia [Madison Co., NY], to Miss Sarah J. Rowe, of Norwich.

GLYNN - BOYDEN:  At the residence of Charles Newton, in Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY] Dec. 28th, by T.D. Anthony, Esq., Mr. Charles A. Glynn of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Ellen P. Boyden, of Plymouth.

BROWN - DELANO:  At the residence of the bride, mother, Dec. 25th, by Rev. Edson Rogers, Mr. Duane Brown of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Ida Delano of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co., NY].

JONES - FREEMAN:  At the residence of the bride's father in North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 1st, by Rev. G.R. Burnside, Mr. Charles M. Jones, of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Helen A. Freeman, of North Norwich.

BROWN - HEALY:  In Lincklaen [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 25th, by Rev. Charles Steere, Mr. George A. Brown, of DeRuyter [Madison Co., NY] to Miss Vira Healy of Lincklaen.

News Items (August 21)

 Dent Family Farm, Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 15, 1900:  For many years the Dent family has had a representation among the strong contingent of honest farmers of the town of Greene [Chenango Co., NY], and not one of them, to our knowledge, ever belittled the proud title.  They have been as good as the average and the average of the town of Greene is good enough.  They have proved hard working farmers and have aimed to succeed, but success does not come to all farmers, be they honest or otherwise. Farming has its ups and downs and many a farmer with honesty of purpose and years of toil, goes unrewarded in so far as accumulating wealth is concerned and finally passes up higher without leaving to his heirs millions to quarrel over.  Now glancing at the head of these lines you will discover the name of one of Greene's upright, hard working farmers, who is liable to leave to his loved ones, when he drifts from the labors of tilling the soil, a goodly heritage.  

Now here we have a Dent that has no dents in his make up.  Early and late he toils on, and if we mistake not, his profits are on the right side of the ledger. Being a progressive, intelligent  farmer, Mr. Dent has an eye open at all times for the dollars that with brain work, accompanied by willing hands, may be found in the resources of a well conducted farm.  He has a good dairy and he keeps them in a profitable condition by giving them the best of care, knowing full well, that the care given will make them more productive and hence from that source will the shining dollars flow.

If you should walk over the Dent farm, which is located about two miles east of this village, in the month of June, when roses bloom, you would see the long grass from his fertile acres jumping into vigorous life, soon to cover the meadows with fragrant hay. This too, comes from care.  Then look at his fields of grain shooting up strong from mother earth, soon to put on their golden hues, and getting ready for the harvest call.  Now take a stroll into Mr. Dent's barns, the home of his stock, hay and grain.  All is in perfect order, cleanliness abounds, and the animals within are happy because of their owner and keeper's care of them.  Mr. Dent, like all successful farmers, employs all the modern machinery made to make farming less laborious and more profitable, and in this too may a source of profit be found. The old style of farming has seen its day, and those who would succeed in this most honorable avocation, must not "mow by hand" in all that they do on a farm.  Mr. Dent understand this, as you will note by looking over his farming implements.

Now the Dent family are making a good record and as the years roll along their accumulations are enlarging, and when the time comes for them to lay the cares of farming aside, we doubt not that they will have a competency that will ensure them ease and a conscience that it was honorably attained.  Good citizens all, helping to strengthen the grand old town of Greene, may the shadows that cross the paths of all mortals be long withheld from them.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 15, 1900:  Last week Chas. R. Potter, a resident of this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], and a veteran of the civil war, received a letter form Philo Birch, who resides in Orleans county, this State [NY], also a veteran.  These old soldiers were captured near Prince George Court House, Va., July 28, 1861, and they were confined in Andersonville prison and suffered all the hardships in that horrible death pen for nine months. These old comrades have not met since they were liberated from prison 35 years ago.

May Cowles, Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 22, 1900:  May, only child of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Cowles, died at her home Tuesday, Feb. 27.  Miss Cowles had been ill for about two weeks and during that time has been a great sufferer.  Within the past few days, hopes were held of recovery.  Her death is a great blow to the bereaved parents and friends.  Funeral services from her home Friday at one o'clock.  [Eva May Cowles, 1881 - 1900, daughter of Arthur & Frances A. (Wells) Cowles, buried in Sylvan Lawn Cemetery, Greene, NY]

Ida May (Shaw) Seeley, Died January 15, 1933, Unadilla, NY:  Mrs. Ida May Seeley passed away Sunday 15th at the home of Mr. and Mrs. George Shaver, Sidney-Unadilla highway, where she had been tenderly cared for almost two years.  Mrs. Seeley suffered a shock 25 months ago, and a few weeks ago sustained a fracture of the hip. The immediate cause of death was pneumonia.  Mrs. Seely was born August 9, 1870, at Sidney Center [Delaware Co., NY], and was the daughter of Harvey and Ellen (Wilsey) Shaw.  On March 21, 1886, she married Worden Seeley.  He passed away many years ago.  Her entire life was spent in Sidney Center, Sidney and Unadilla. The later place has been her home for the past 12 years.  She was a member of the Sidney Baptist church for many years, and united with the Unadilla Baptist upon going to that village. She was a loyal and faithful worker, a woman of pleasing personality, which made her many lasting friends.  A private prayer service was held Tuesday at 1:30 at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Lee Rider, in Unadilla, and a service at the Presbyterian church in that village followed at 2 o'clock, Rev. John T. Lyon, pastor of the Unadilla Federated church, officiated. Burial in Evergreen Hill cemetery [Unadilla, Otsego Co., NY].  Surviving are the daughter, Mrs. Rider; one grandson, Kenneth Edward Rider of Unadilla; three brothers, Fred Shaw and Orrie Shaw of Franklin, and Claude C. Shaw of Sidney.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 15, 1900

Marriages

REYNOLDS - DAILY:  At the M.E. Parsonage in this village [Greene, Chenango co., NY], March 11, 1900, by Rev. Willard H. Alger, Andrew P. Reynolds of Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY] and Miss Mina Daily of Brisben [Chenango Co., NY].

HOVEY - HOVEY:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 6, 1900, by Rev. C.B. Parsons, Hiram P. Hovey of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], and Mrs. Marilla A. Hovey of Oxford.

GOODENOUGH - LORD:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 7, 1900, by Rev. G.A. Starkweather, Fred C. Goodenough of Afton [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Gussie M. Lord of Vallonia Springs [Broome Co., NY].

HINMAN - PRATT:  At the M.E. parsonage, North Fenton [Broome Co., NY], Feb. 25, 1900, by Rev. Geo. L. Williams, Fred Hinman and Miss Maud Pratt, all of North Fenton.

Deaths

LOOMIS:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], March 11, 1900, Caroline R. [Loomis], wife of Henry Loomis, aged 60 years, and 7 months.

SOULE:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], March 7, 1900, Eli Soule aged 74 years.

PURDY:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 28, 1900, Catherine [Purdy], wife of William Purdy, aged 63 years.

DAVIS:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], March 8, 1900, Mrs. Wilber Davis, aged 71 years.

MILLER:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 5, 1900, Mrs. Hannah Miller, aged 84 years.

JOHNSON:  At the home of his daughter, Mrs. John Lee, in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 4, 1900, Stephen B. Johnson, formerly of Afton [Chenango Co., NY]

CARPENTER:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], March 11, 1900, Laura H. [Carpenter], wife of Lewis E. Carpenter, aged 77 years.

Born

COOPER:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], March 2, 1900, to Mr. and Mrs. John Cooper, a son.

HOLCOMB:  In Norwich [Chenango Co.., NY], March 9, 1900, to Mr. and Mrs. Homer W. Holcomb, a son.

Vital Records (August 20)

 Charles W. St. John, Afton Enterprise, July 23, 1914:  Chas. W. St. John was born in Newark, N.J., in 1848, and died at his home in Nineveh Junction [Broome Co., NY], July 18, 1914.  Mr. St. John had been connected with rail roads for 41 years; the D.&H. alone for 34 years.  He had been a member of the I.O.O.F. for 45 years and was a member of the B. of L.E.  Mr. St. John had been ill seven weeks when death occurred.  Funeral was held at the house, Rev. J.J. Francis officiating, and B.Y. McHugh as funeral director.  Mr. St. John is survived by his wife, Mary St. John, to whom he was married 43 years and two daughters, Miss Belle, and Mrs. Emma F. Bushnell.  The pall bearers were: C.E. Currier, Chas. Weller, C.M. Dickenson, and G.D. Hoyt.

Emma H. (Williams) Russell, Afton Enterprise, February 16, 1905:  Early Tuesday morning, Feb. 7, 1905, Mrs. Emma H. Russell entered into the joy of eternal life. She had been a patient sufferer for many years and since November 12, 1904 confined to her bed, lingering in extreme weakness, tenderly cared for by her husband and children in the home.  At the last, suddenly, without a moments warning, her pure soul took its flight to join the throng of redeemed ones in heaven.  Always tenderly solicitous for the welfare of others, loving patient sympathetic, keenly appreciative of even the slightest act performed for her comfort, the memory of her beautiful, self-sacrificing life will be a constant benediction to all who knew and loved her. Early in life she gave her heart to God and united with the M.E. church and was a truly devoted follower of the Saviour, "who came not, to be ministered unto, but to minister." She lived in the immediate presence of God, taking everything to Him in prayer.  To one who thus knew God, death held no terrors.  It was only going home to her Father's house of many mansions, where Jesus had prepared a place for her, with a sure confidence that she would find a welcome there.

"Oh how sweet it will be in that beautiful land;  So free from all sorrow and pain; With songs on our lips and with harps in our hands.  To meet one another again."

She was the daughter of Wm. O. and Harriet Williams, born March 18, 1841, and married to Lewis D. Russell, March 27, 1861.  Besides her husband she leaves a sorely bereaved family of children.  Mr. Gertrude L. Pearce, of Gilbertsville, Rev. O.G. Russell, of Herrick Center, Pa., George W. Russell of Sidney, Minnie A., Mary E. Ernest R. and Edgar J., at home.  Also a large circle of near relatives and friends, who with the immediate family deeply mourn their loss. The funeral service was held at the home at 11 o'clock, Feb. 10, 1905.  Her pastor, Rev. F.A. Matteson, spoke comforting and appropriate words from the text which she had chosen.  "We look for a city which hath foundations.  whose builder and maker is God," Heb. 11:10, Her four sons tenderly bore the beloved form to its last resting place. The burial was in Glenwood cemetery [Afton, Chenango co.., NY]

Pearl Ruso, Afton Enterprise, August 10, 1905:  On Sunday July 31st last, at 3 o'clock in the morning, occurred the death of Pearl, wife of Abram Ruso.  She had been ill less than twenty-four hours, and her sudden and untimely death has saddened many hearts. A husband and little boy less than twenty months old, beside an invalid mother, one sister and three brothers, are left to mourn her loss. The funeral was held the Wednesday following, at 10 o'clock from her late residence on Searles hill.  Rev. Odell of Bainbridge officiating.  Interment was in Glenwood cemetery at Afton [Chenango Co., NY].  The funeral was largely attended by relatives and sympathetic friends who brought a profusion of flowers, wrought in various and artistic forms.

The light of her young life went down; As sinks behind the hill; The glory of a setting star; Clear, sudden and still; Fold her, oh father in thine arms, And let her henceforth be a messenger of love between Our human hearts and thee.

The husband and immediate family, hereby extend thanks to friends and kindness shown in this their hour of affliction  It is sweet to be remembered in the lesser trials inseparable from earthly existence, but when death has recklessly entered our door and snatched from our midst a loved one, and all is dark, with scarcely a rap of light to pierce the seemingly impenetrable gloom, it is then, indeed sweet to be remembered. 

No radiant pearl which created fortune wears; No gem that twinkling hangs from beauty's ear. Nor the bright stars which nights blue arch adorns.  Nor rising suns that yield the vernal morn.  Shine with so much luster as the tear that breaks for others too, down virtues manly cheek.

Kind friends be assured that the memory of your benevolent deeds and sympathetic tears will ever remain green and be indissolubly linked with that of the loved and lost one who now sleeps in yonder church yard awaiting the coming of an eternal morning.  O.B.I.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 29, 1854

Married

In Poolville, on 6th, by Rev. P.G. White, Mr. Robert T. Gibson of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Ellen L. Smith, of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY].

Died

In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on 20th, Mr. James Goodrich, aged 50 years.

In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on 12th, Naoma Josephine [Rogers], daughter of Decalvus and Diana Rogers, aged 6 months 26 days.

In King's Settlement [Chenango Co., NY], on 24th, Mr. John King, aged 63 years.

In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on 18th, Edwin [Fisher], son of Thompson G. Fisher, aged 18 years.

In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on 18th, Mrs. Leonard, wife of J.B. Leonard, aged 64 years.

In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on 14th, Mr. Brooks, aged 80 years.

In Smyrna (Chenango Co., NY], on 20th, Mr. Wyram Bartlett, aged 77 years.

At Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on 10th, Miss Mary Ann Evans, daughter of the late Rev. Geo. Evans, aged 19 years.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 5, 1854

Married

In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on 4th, by Rev. S.W. Bush, Mr. Ezra B. Barnett to Miss Catharine M. Chamberlain, both of this place.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on 25th ult., by Rev. A.S. Graves, Mr. Webster Graves of Preston [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Betsey Marsh of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY].

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on 23rd ult., by Rev. S. Ripley, Mr. John B. Root to Miss Martha C. Shapley of Oxford.

Died

In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on March 1854, Polly Peters, aged 73 years.

In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on 27th ult., Martha Giles, aged 57 years 11 months.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on 25th ult., Miss Polly Tucker, aged 58 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on 25th ult. Mr. David D. Holmes, aged 48 years.

Vital Records (August 19)

 John W. Doan, Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 28, 1892:  Saturday evening about 6:30 o'clock a fisherman in the raceway near the electric car barns, discovered the body of an aged man near the State St. bank, where the water was scarcely knee deep. The police and coroner Pierce were immediately notified and the body was taken out as soon as they arrived. The drowned man proved to be John W. Doan, who for some time past has lived in the Shepard block on Prospect avenue.  he was about 85 years of age and during temporary fits of insanity had previously attempted to commit suicide.  He was last seen about 5:30 o'clock Saturday evening in that vicinity and it is thought that he was on his way to the scene of his death.  Mr. Doan was well known in this city and will be remembered as a driver of the Montrose stage for a number of years. During the past year his mind has been considerably affected.  He leaves a wife and one son, who is an inmate of the County House.  Binghamton Republican.

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Frank, Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 28, 1892:  The Newark Valley correspondent of the Owego Times has the following to say relative to a young couple, former residents of this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY]:  The home of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Frank was filled on Monday evening with hosts of friends, celebrating the tenth anniversary of matrimonial bliss.  Mr. and Mrs. Frank had left nothing undone to make the evening an enjoyable one.  A busy spider had spun his labyrinthian network throughout the house, each thread terminating in some tiny article symbolizing the nature of the occasion, and many things from the comparatively "greater" to the superlatively "greatest," rewarding the toiling extricator at his journey's end. A nice course of refreshments were served, and the hours passed swiftly under the participation of various games.  It was late when the party broke up--a wandering caravan of American tin.  Mr. and Mrs. Frank were the recipients of a beautiful centre table and rocking chair. We wish many happy returns of the day.

Merritt Thompson, Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 28, 1892:  Cortland, Cortland Co., NY:  As the South-bound coal train on the D.L.&W.R.R., which reaches Cortland at 3:42 p.m. was passing the Hitchcock crossing on Elm street this afternoon, Merritt Thompson, a barber, who has been employed in a shop on Clinton avenue, in the building adjoining Sager's drug store, attempted to board the train while in motion.  Thompson missed his hold and fell under the moving train and was instantly killed.  One arm was smashed, his skull crushed and neck broken.  Daniel Thompson, better known as "Snowball," was with him with the accident occurred.  Coroner Moore was immediately summoned and ordered the body to be taken to Deard & Peck's undertaking rooms.  A jury was called and after viewing the body and listening to the evidence of eye witnesses came to the conclusion that he came to his death by his own negligence and that no blame could be attached to the railroad company.  Thompson was undoubtedly intoxicated at the time of the accident.  Binghamton Republican.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 5, 1892:  Last week we published an account of the killing of Merritt Thompson by the cars, at Cortland.  He was a colored barber, and resided at Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].  Several weeks ago he spent a day or two in this village, going about the streets singing and whistling, seemingly happy under the influence of "most all."  He was an itinerant, and like a great many unfortunate mortals was a diligent seeker after that which "biteth like an adder and stingeth like a serpent," and he laid down his life, full to the brim, with the great destroyer.

Williard Wells, Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 5, 1892:  Brisben, Chenango Co., NY:  Williard Wells, who has been sick for the past four weeks, died at his home in So. Oxford [Chenango co., NY], about a mile above the village, on Wednesday of last week. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. W.C. Gates on Friday. The remains were interred in the Ten Brook cemetery.  He leaves a wife and three children, Leroy of Coventry, Eugene  of Vernon, N.J., and Mrs. A.E. Benedict, of this village.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 28, 1892

Marriages

WIGHTMAN - BISHOP:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], April 20, 1892, by Rev. H.D. Stebbins, Adney Wightman and Libbie Bishop, all of Norwich.

WORMWOD - PENNER:  in Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], April 11, 1892, by Rev. J.C. Barber, Charles Wormwood, and Minnie L. Penner, all of Sherburne.

Deaths

GROSS:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], April 19, 1892, Mr. James G. Gross, aged 65 years.

SALISBURY:  In Stamford, Delaware Co., April 8, 1892, Mr. Albert Salisbury of Co. E 114th Reg. N.Y.S.V., aged 47 years, brother of Mrs. Wm. H. Spencer of Coventry.

COLEMAN:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], April 18, 1892, Timothy Coleman, aged 80 years.

GIBSON:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], April 18, 1892, Fred A. Gibson, aged 29 years.

LANE:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], April 16, 1892, Rhoda A. [Lane], wife of Rensselaer Lane, aged 47 years.

JOHNSON:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], April 5, 1892, Nicholas Johnson, aged 83 years.

ROBINSON:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], April 7, 1892, George M. Robinson, aged 55 years.

BERGER:  in Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], April 17, 1892, Joseph Berger, aged 64 years.

Vital Records (August 18)

 Three Bainbridge Boys Lose Their Lives When Boat Overturns, Sidney Record, October 18, 1924:  Last Sunday afternoon, Oct. 12th, many were the anxious homes in Bainbridge village regarding the absence from home of three lads, Frank and Edward Johnson, age 7 and 10 years, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Johnson and John Shafer, age 10 years, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Shafer, former residents of Sidney [Delaware Co., NY][, all residing in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].  In the morning the three lads had started out of the village and were last seen walking in the direction of the road leading from Bainbridge to Coventry.  Failing to return to their homes late in the afternoon, a search was at once instituted and the clue along the Coventry road was followed.  On one side of that road is located Roberts Lake, a body of water that in former years was a part of the Bainbridge water works system.  The searchers arriving at the lake at once discovered the fate that had overtaken the three little fellows.  On the shore was their clothing, while on the lake floated an overturned flat bottom boat.  An immediate search was made for the three bodies. State Troopers were dispatched from Sidney to render assistance and the lake was dragged. The body of young John Shafer was first recovered and later on the two Johnson boys were taken out of the water. Dr. Edward Danforth, health officer, viewed the bodies and rendered a verdict of accidental drowning.  No one saw the accidental drowning.  No one saw the accident which probably occurred in the morning of last Sunday.  Wednesday afternoon, 15th inst., every heart in Bainbridge was depressed, the burial of the three little boys seemed to strike into every home as if it was their own family loss. The flowers sent for the occasion, vast in number, beautiful in design, testified to the widespread sorrow and the services at the two homes were largely attended. The two Johnson Lads, Frank and Edward, were buried in the Episcopalian cemetery side by side; John Shafer, age 10 years, was buried in Greenlawn cemetery.  Regarding the last named boy comes to light an unusual incident. The Shafer family always carried a Prudential insurance policy on each member, until a few months ago all of the policies were dropped, except the policy carried on John, who lost his life last Sunday.  Mr. Howard Collar, Prudential agent, promptly paid the amount, $10.

Binghamton Press, October 15, 1924:  ....Besides their parents, Edward and Frank are survived by two younger sister, Mary and Grace, and a baby brother, Donald, and grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Johnson and Mr. and Mrs. Fritz Shofkom.  John Shafer is survived by his parents, and six sisters, Dorothy, Gladys, Florence, Louella, Mildred, Margaret and baby brother, Kenneth, and grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. John Seamen of Sidney.

Betsey Johnson, Died December 25th, 1854, Coventry, NY:  Mrs. Betsey Johnson, wife of Isaac Johnson, departed this life at the house of her son-in-law, in Coventry, Chenango Co., N.Y., Dec. 25th, 1854, in the 74th year of her age.  Sister Johnson has been an acceptable member of the M.E. Church for more than forty years, and was universally beloved for her Christian sprit, and religious integrity.  During her last sickness she often expressed her desire to depart and be with Christ.  Her death was truly happy and triumphant. She has left a companion and a large family to mourn their loss. But their loss is her infinite gain.  Oh that we all may be prepared to meet her in heaven.    Coventry, Jan. 22, 1855.

Chenango Union, June 21, 1865

Married

In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], June 7th, 1865, by Rev. L. Queal, Mr. Franklin Snow, of Ithaca [Tompkins Co. NY], to Miss Mary E. Tracy of North Norwich.

In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 4th, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. Ansel McIntyre, of Pittsfield [Otsego Co., NY] to Miss Ellen McIntyre, of Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY].

At the same time and place, by the same, Mr. Alonzo Van Sternberg, of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Helen McIntyre, of Pittsfield [Otsego Co., NY].

In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], June 5th, by Rev. E.W. Allen, R.B. Landon, M.D., of Fredonia [Chautauqua Co. NY], to Elizabeth Taylor, M.D., of Pitcher.

In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], April 30th, by the same, Mr. Andrew M. Dickerson to Miss Anna Maria Smith.

Died

In this village, June 10th, 1865, Minnie Merritt [Porter], daughter of B.B. Porter, aged 10 months and 27 days.

In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], June 15th, Rosa M. [Powell], daughter of Isaac T. and Eliza Powell, aged 14 years.

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], May 28th, Mrs. Mary Johnson, aged 78 years and 4 months.

In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], June 5th, Capt. Asa Beach, aged 17 years.

In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], May 9th, of diptheria, Huldah [Hakes], aged 33 years, 7 months and 8 days.  May 12th, Alice L. [Hakes], aged 2 years, 6 months and 1 day; May 15th, Ruetta [Hakes], aged 6 years, 4 months and 9 days; May 20th, Dever [Hakes], aged 10 years, 3 months and 29 days; May 26th Halbert [Hakes], aged 3 months and 22 days--all of diptheria--children of Rufus B. Hakes, who is left alone to mourn this great loss.

In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], May 19th, of diptheria, Ellen [Harvey], daughter of Nelson and Martha Harvey, aged 17 years, 29 days.

In German [Chenango Co., NY], May 20th, of diptheria, Mr. David Harvey, aged 36 years, 5 months and 21 days.  He leaves a wife and two children to mourn his loss.

Afton Enterprise, February 20, 1896:  Asa Johnson of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], and Miss Nellie Barr, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY] were joined in marriage by Rev. C.B. Personeus at the M.E. Parsonage, Afton, Jan. 22.

Afton Enterprise, August 3, 1893:  Married at the residence of the bride's parents, July 31, 1893, by Rev. Henry Hill, Ida B. Johnson, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY] and Isaac B .Jeffers, of Charlotteville, NY [Schoharie Co.].

Vital Records (August 17)

 Samuel Johnson, Afton Enterprise Harpursville Budget, July 4, 1935:  Samuel Johnson, aged 78 years, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], died at the Binghamton City Hospital last Sunday June 30.  The funeral was held Wednesday of this week at two o'clock from the Presbyterian church, Rev. Webb officiating.  Surviving Mr. Johnson are two daughters, Mrs. Myrtle Spencer of Harpursville and Mrs. Bertha Fuller of Guilford.  

Mary A. Johnson, Afton Enterprise Harpursville Budget, September 1, 1932:  The funeral of Mrs. Frank Johnson, who died August 27, at her home, was held Monday afternoon in the Colwell brothers Funeral Chapel, the Rev. G.H. Orvis, pastor of the Presbyterian Chruch officiating.  Burial was made in St. Peter's cemetery [Bainbridge Chenango Co., NY].  Mrs. Johnson was 83 years of age and for more than 50 years had lived in Bainbridge.  She was born in the town of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Uriah Benedict. She is survived by her husband, a daughter, Mrs. Alice Thompson of Binghamton, and a son, Charles Johnson of this village [Bainbridge].

Welcome Johnson, Afton Enterprise, December 29, 1894:  Welcome Johnson, a resident of this place over fifteen years ago, died at his home in Corning, Kas., the 23d day of November.  He was between 80 and 90 years of age, and a brother-in-law of Alonzo Easton, of North Afton.

Willard Leroy Johnson, Afton Enterprise, November 9, 1893:  Mr. Willard Leroy Johnson, of Corning, Kas., died at Sycamore Springs, Kas., Oct. 6, 1893, aged 46 years.  Deceased was a native of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., nY] and a brother-in-law of ex-Sheriff John Robb, of Norwich, who formerly resided in Afton [Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, November 9, 1893:  Willard Leroy Johnson, of Corning, Kansas, died of paralysis, at Sycamore Springs, Friday night, October 6, 1893, to which place he had gone in the hope of regaining his health, accompanied by his wife and brother, but Death met him there.  Deceased was born in Bainbridge, N.Y., March 4, 1847, and was at the time of his death aged 46 years, 7 months and 2 days.  He moved to Atchison sixteen years ago last Christmas, and had since made Kansas his home. He was an active member of the Presbyterian church and a good citizen.  He leaves a wife and two children to mourn his death, and many relatives and friends, of whom many reside in Bainbridge and Afton.  Ex-Sheriff John Robb, of Norwich, is a brother-in-law of the deceased. At the request of the deceased, he was buried under the auspices of the masonic fraternity, assisted by the Woodmen of which he was a member. The largest funeral procession ever seen in the city followed his remains to the cemetery.

William H. Johnson, Afton Enterprise, February 27, 1913:  William H. Johnson died suddenly last Tuesday morning while drawing wood.  The coroner was called and pronounced death to be due to heart trouble.  Mr. Johnson was born in Afton [Chenango Co., NY] in 1850.  He is survived by three children, who live in the western part of this state; also by three brothers, George and Samuel of Afton, and Nelson of Bainbridge.

John Randolph Newton, Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, November 9, 1893:  John Randolph Newton, a well known resident of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], died at his home in that town, Thursday afternoon, aged sixty-four years.  Mr. Newton was one of the victims of the railroad disaster at Jackson, Mich., October 13th, by which an excursion train enroute to the World's Fair was wrecked and a number of passengers killed or wounded. Although injured, Mr. Newton went on to Chicago, but upon his arrival there he grew worse, and immediately returned to his home, where he was stricken with pneumonia, which resulted in his death. Deceased leaves surviving five children, two brothers and one sister.  His wife died about four years ago.  Funeral services were conducted at the Free Methodist church in North Pharsalia, Sunday, by Rev. M.N. Downing, of Binghamton, and were largely attended.  Interment in Mt. Hope, Norwich.

Margaret Parsons Foote Williams, Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, november 9, 1893:  Margaret Parsons Foote Williams, wife of Mr. William H. Williams, and mother of Mr. Robert D. Williams, died yesterday in the eightieth year of her age.  Mr. Williams has been an invalid for five years, but bore her afflictions without murmur and with true Christian fortitude.  Mr. Williams came from Puritan stock. She was the daughter of the late John Foote, of Hamilton, Madison county.  her grandfather was a Revolutionary soldier, a member of the State Senate of Massachusetts, and afterward a Senator in New York State, and also the first judge of Chenango county.  Her great uncle was commissary general on General Washington's staff.  Mrs. Williams had passed the most of her long life in this city, where she was widely known and greatly beloved. The funeral services will be held from her late home, No. 203 North Pearl street tomorrow afternoon.  Albany Evening Journal.  Deceased was a sister of Mrs. John Mitchell, and a cousin of Mrs. Elizabeth Turner of Norwich.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, October 25, 1888

Death Notices

SQUIRE:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 18th, Mr. Oriel Squire, aged 90 years.

BASSETT:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 17th, Marium Ellen [Bassett], wife of Judge P. Bassett, aged 38 years.

KEYES:  In Rockdale [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 7th, Mrs. Clarissa P. Keyes, aged 85 years.

BUTTS:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 16th, Miss Fannie Butts, aged 18 years.

SKILLMAN:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 16th, Mr. James C. Skillman, aged 58 years.

GRAY:  In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 10th, Mr. Daniel P. Gray, aged 71 years.

CHAMPLIN:  In Ludden, Dak., Sept. 8th, Mr. Lyman A. Champlin, aged 47 years, formerly of Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY].

RUDDOCK:  In Cuyler, Oct. 5th, Mrs. Esther M. Ruddock, widow of the late Samuel Ruddock, of Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], aged 76 years.

BRACH:  In La Fayette, Ind.., Oct. 10th, Mr. Isaac L. Beach, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

THURBER:  In Upper Lisle [Broome Co., NY], Oct. 9th, Mr. Gurden H. Thurber, aged 21 years, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]

Vital Records & News Item (August 16)

 William H. Johnson Insane, Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, September 27, 1883:  Last Saturday William H. Johnson, son of Andrew J. Johnson, of this place, returned from the hop yards at Milford, Otsego County.  Shortly after his arrival here he began to show queer signs, and in a short time he began to talk continually on temperance and the Bible.  He grew rapidly worse and by Monday afternoon he was walking the streets continuously swinging his arms and flourishing a Bible and talking religion to everyone he met.  Doctors were called to examine him who pronounced him insane, but were unable to get him to take medicine of any kind.  Tuesday morning, his brother, Charles, living in Franklin, who is his guardian, was telegraphed for but did not arrive until Wednesday morning.  During Tuesday he seemed worse and his mind gradually turned from religion to other matters, but he still clung to the Bible.  On arrival, his brother immediately took steps to have him removed to the asylum at Utica, but while he was procuring the necessary papers had him removed to a quiet place thinking, perhaps, this would benefit him, but it did not have the desired effect, so he was removed to the asylum Friday night.  No cause has been assigned for his actions as he has always been a steady, hard working fellow, and always respected.  Afton Press

Lewis Brimmer, A Minstrel's Sad End, Chenango Union, September 27, 1883:  Many of our readers remember Lewis Brimmer, a minstrel performer of high rank a few years ago.  He was a native of Cooperstown [Otsego Co., NY], and after a brilliant career of a few years as the champion banjoist, died an outcast in the jail at Fonda [Montgomery Co. NY], a few days since. A dispatch from that place, dated September 15th says:

"The first death that has occurred in the new jail took place today, the case being that of Lewis Brimmer, formerly of Cobleskill, aged 46.  The deceased was a banjo player, and at one time held high rank among such performers. A few years ago he was often seen in Broadway, driving a fine establishment and elegantly dressed, but he reached the lowest degree of debasement, this being the usual end of a fast life.  He was arrested at Canajoharie as a tramp and was committed to jail, being then in a drunken condition from delirium tremens, suffering from foul disease, and his personal appearance was utterly loathsome.  He died three days after committed and was buried by the authorities.  All he left was his banjo, which he gave to the turnkey."

A correspondent writing from Fonda says:  "The remains of the banjo tramp, Lewis Brimmer, who died in jail, were buried by the poormaster.  Only four men were in attendance, just enough to handle the coffin. A sad conclusion for one who a few years ago earned $200 a week and was the crack banjoist of New York.  Such is the result of a fast life."

Jennie Bolt Griffin, Died January 12, 1933:  Mrs. Jennie Bolt Griffin, 81, wife of E.S. Griffin of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], died at her home in that city Thursday, 12th, following a long illness.  Mrs. Griffin was born in Masonville [Delaware Co. NY], May 12, 1852, and was the daughter of Alphaeus Bolt and Jane (Burch) Bolt.  Mr. and Mrs. Griffin were united in marriage about 50 years ago, in Unadilla. Their married life was spent in Halcottville, until about 1890, when they went to Unadilla, and residing there for about 12 years, when they moved to Binghamton, which has since been their home.  Mrs. Griffin was a loyal member of the Unadilla Baptist church, and since her residence in Binghamton, of the Main street Baptist church.  She is survived by her husband; one daughter, Mrs. Percival Powers; two sons, Dr.  H.B. Griffin and E.A. Griffin, all of Binghamton; one sister, Mrs. Fred W. Douglas of Sidney; one brother, Lamont Bolt of Norwich. The late Mrs. Charles A. Castle of Unadilla, was also a sister.

Samuel G. Smith, Died  January 28,  1933:  Private funeral services were conducted from the late home of Samuel G. Smith, on Sunday, 29th, Rev. Edwin R. Holden, pastor of the First Congregational church, Sidney, officiating.  Interment in the family plot in Prospect hill cemetery [Sidney, Delaware co., NY].  Mr. Smith passed away early Thursday morning, January 26th, at the family Willow street home. the infirmities of old age were factors leading to his demise.  He was highly esteemed in this community where he spent practically all his life. The deceased was born in Bainbridge township [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 1st, 1844.  Sixty-one years last April 12th, he married Arminda Olmsted, a daughter of Mr. John Olmstead, vicinity pioneer resident.  For many years they resided on the south road, Sidney-Bainbridge, coming to Sidney about 15 years ago to reside  Surviving are his wife, a son, Fred H. Smith of Delhi; a daughter, Mrs. Fred Burlison of Guilford, and a brother, Bion Smith of Sidney. Several nieces and nephews and grandchildren also survive.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, October 25, 1888

Marriages

NEWTON - WRIGHT:  At the Free Methodist parsonage, Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], by Rev. M. W. Fuller, of North Pharsalia, Mr. Adelbert D. Newton and Miss Flora De Burr Wright, both of Norwich.

 HACKETT - BAKER:  In Oxford [Chenango So., NY], Oct. 17th, by Rev. P.D. Root, Mr. Fred Hackett, of Oxford, and Miss Abbie Baker, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

WINTER - WAGNER:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 14th, by Rev. C. Darby, Mr. Henry Winter and Mrs. Lydia J. Wagner, both of Greene.

BABCOCK - BROWN:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY], Oct. 4th, by Rev. M. Babcock, Mr. Christian Babcock, of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Achsa Brown, of Lebanon [Chenango Co., NY].

GREEN - KELLY:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 15th, by Rev. D.W. Lamphere, Mr. Stewell Green of Philadelphia, and Miss Nora Kelly, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY].

Deaths

RAYMOND:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 24th, Ustacia C. [Raymond], wife of William H. Raymond, and daughter of the late Gen. Hendrick Crain, aged 55 years, and 10 months.  Funeral services will be held at her late residence on Miller street, Friday at 2 P.M.

WAGNER:  At the residence of Elmore Sharpe, Esq., in this village, Oct. 21st, Miss Maria L. Wagner, aged 72 years.

FRANCISCO:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 24th, Miss Maude Francisco, aged 18 years.  Her remains will be taken to Delaware county, Friday, for burial.

BREED:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 24th, Cornelia Ann [Breed], wife of George F. Breed, aged 24 years.

SMITH:  In the town of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 18th, Eva [Smith], wife of Lester P. Smith, Esq., aged 29 years, formerly of Cedarville, Herkimer Co.

TUCKER:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 21st, Mr. Edward Tucker, aged 75 years.

MILLER:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], Oct. 21st, Mr. Lyran Onslow Miller, aged 70 years.

HOLMES:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 19th, 1888, Mr. Franklin H. Holmes, aged 72 years.

KIMBALL:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 10th, Mary Schrier Kimball, daughter of George R. and Mary A. Kimball, aged 21 years.

PLUMB:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], Oct. 15th, Beulah L. [Plumb], wife of Albert Plumb, aged 34 years.