Civil War Letter from Danville Prison, Va., November 1864

 Oxford Times, January 25, 1865

We understand that eight letters have been received from Capt. Roome, in the Danville Prison, Va., with dates from Oct. 10th to Dec. 18th.  Knowing that his friends and the members of his company are anxious to learn how he fares, we give the following extracts from the letters.

C.S. Military Prison, Danville, Va., Nov. 26, 1864

My Dear Mother:  Knowing you will be anxious to hear from me, and fearing you may not have received the letters I have written you, I will state again that I was taken a prisoner in a charge made against the enemy's works, on the 27th of Sept. while trying to save the colors of the Regt.  I was taken first to Libby, then to Salisbury, N.C., and from thence as could be expected, pressing my nose against the grate of a military prison.  I am not treated as badly as I expected.  My food is very coarse and plain, and I could eat more than they give;  still what I have is sufficient to sustain life, so you need not worry your self for fear that I am starving to death, because I am not.  I am well, and in good spirits, and if I had anything to employ my hands with, prison life would not seem such a great hardship.  I am getting used to it, and try to keep in as good spirits as possible.

We are confined on the two upper floors of a tobacco warehouse.  The weather here is as cold as at the North; but we keep comfortable, except when the nights are chilly.  It makes it harder to bear, as I expected to spend the winter at home, after my three years' service; but fate has willed that our separation should be longer.  Keep up a brave heart, and all will come out right yet.

I want a box of things sent as soon as possible, containing the following articles:  1 under shirt, 1 over shirt, flannel, 2 prs. drawers, 2 prs. socks, 2 pocket handkerchiefs, needles, thread yarn and scissors, buttons, towels, pocket comb, tooth brush, bar washing soap, bar toilet soap, paper of pepper, pepper box, 1 qt. tin cup, 1 two qt. tin pail, knife, fork and spoon, jack knife, bottle of ink, one quire of letter paper, 50 envelopes, lead pencils, diary for 1865, tin plate, 1 pr. shoes, 1 frying pan, 2 lbs. yeast powder for raising biscuit, and any small articles which you think would be useful to me.  Get also some strong cotton cloth, and make me three bags, which will hold about 20 lbs. flour, (I do not want the flour).

The money which was taken from us at Richmond, has been sent here for our use, and as long as mine lasts, I hope to fare better than I have done.  I am very anxious to hear from you, and watch the arrival of every Flag of Truce Boat, which may bring me a dear welcome message from you.  It would come like a ray of sunlight in my prison home, and lighten the darkness of many a dreary hour.

We still continue hoping against hope, that there will be a general exchange this winter.  It would amuse you to hear the rumors which are being continually set afloat about it.  The sick in the Hospital are expected to be exchanged every day, so you see he is a lucky fellow who gets sick here, and yet is not dangerously ill.  When I get home again, I shall know how to appreciate good living, and the comforts of a home.

I shall write every ten days, but you must not expect to receive the letters regularly.  Love to all the family, and a heart full to you, my dear precious mother. Tell Caddie his uncle Henry eats his soup and meat with his fingers.

From the New York Adjutant Report:  89th NY Infantry:

Roome, Henry C.:  Age, 23 years.  Enrolled, September 23, 1861, at Oxford, to serve three years; mustered in as second lieutenant, Co. E., December 4, 1861; as captain, October 16, 1862; captured in action, September 29, 1864, at Chaffins Farm, Va.; paroled, March, 1865; discharged, August 16, 1865, at Richmond, Va.

Vital Records - October 1853

 Oxford Times, October 5, 1863

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 22d, Virginia Rose [Cushman], aged 3 years and 9 months.

Oxford Times, October 12, 1853

Drowned:  The Cooperstown Freeman's Journal [Otsego Co., NY] says the body of Mr. Francis Warren, who resided near Three Mile Point was found in the lake on Sunday morning last.  He left his house about two o'clock Wednesday morning, in rather a deranged state of mind, which was the last time he was seen alive.  He was about 45 years of age and leaves a wife and several children.

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Solomon T. Bolles of Waukesha, Wisconsin, to Miss Maria Smith of this village.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult., Miss Frances A. Read, daughter of Merrick Read, aged 23 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., Mr. Alpheus Dickinson, aged 84 years.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult., Lina F. [Lewis], daughter of Alonzo and Mary B. Lewis, aged 3 months.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., Mrs. Philura [Winchell], wife of Mr. David Winchell, aged 53 years.

Oxford Times, October 19, 1853

Married:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., by Rev. C.E. Hewes, Mr. Wilder Pierce of Deposit [Delaware Co., NY] to Miss Lavina Fuller of Sandford [Broome Co., NY].

Married:  In Lee Centre, Illinois, on the 6th inst., by Rev. D.W. Clark of Ottawa, Illinois, Mr. F.R. Church to Miss M. Louise Noble, both of the former place, and formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., by Rev. F. Rogers, Mr. Richard G. Lewis to Miss Mary Isabella Willard, daughter of Doct. A .Willard, all of that place.

Married:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., by Rev. C.E. Hewes, Mr. George W. Tillotson of South Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Ann Elizabeth June of the former place.

Married:  In East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., by Rev. A. Gibson, Mr. O.S. Hollenbeck of Lisle, Broome Co. to Miss M.E. Barnes of Greene.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., Mr. Stephen Gibson, aged 65 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., Mr. Sylvanus Parker, aged 68 years. 

Died:  In Hubbard's Ville, Madison Co., [NY], Sept. 10th, after a protracted illness, Mrs. Emily Hart [Hubbard], daughter of Calvin Hubbard, Esq., aged 44 years.

Died:  At his residence in Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], Sept. 25th, the Hon. Sherman Page, in the 75th year of his age.  When age, full of honors and head blossoming for the grave, is laid in the narrow house, we bow with reverence to the decree of Providence, and murmur not at the dispensation.  For it is the common lot.  Judge Page has occupied no inconsiderable place in the public mind, as a man of high intellectual powers, and extensive reading and intelligence.  His fine qualities of mind and heart were devoted to the service of his friends and to all who came within the sphere of his association; but that enterprising, restless and soaring intellect, which gave life and animation to everything around him, which always made him the master spirit of the social circle in which he moved, has fled, and nothing remains but a cold lump of clay.  He has suffered a long and painful sickness, and has gone to his reward "in the confidence of a certain faith, in the comfort of a reasonable, religious and holy hope; and in perfect charity with the whole world."

"In this misjudging world, they picture death / A fearful tyrant; O believe it not! / It is an angel, beautiful as light, / That watches o'er the sorrowing spirit here / And when weary of its pilgrimage, / Unbars the heavy gates of everlasting life, / And vanishes forever."  Cooperstown Journal

Oxford Times, October 26, 1853

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th inst., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Daniel S. Smith to Miss Adde Eliza Godfrey, all of this village.

Married:  In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst., by Rev. O. Ketchum, Mr. John Oysterbanks of German [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Eveline S. Ketchum of Pharsalia.

Died:  In Troy [Rensselear Co., NY] on the 15th isn.t, at 9 o'clock and 15 minutes, P.M., Jenny Prindle Brigham, on the same day, at 10 o'clock and 40 minutes, P.M. Julia(?) Per Lee Brigham, twin daughter of Charles D. and Cornelia Brigham, and grandchildren of David Brigham of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], aged 1 year, 1 month and 3 days.

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Death of Lieut. Edward E. Breed , Battle of Winchester, Va. - September 19, 1864

 Oxford Times, October 19, 1864

Killed in the battle of Winchester, Va., on the 19th of September ult., Lieut. Edward E. Breed of the 114th Regiment, N.Y.S.V., in the 22d year of his age.

Lieut. Breed was the son of our townsman [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], William R. Breed, Esq.,  He received a good education at the Norwich and Oxford Academies, and studied law for a brief period with Horace Packer, Esq. of Oxford.  Upon the organization of the 114th Regiment in 1862, he enlisted as a private in Co. A.  He was soon appointed to a Sergeantcy, and following the fortunes of the Regiment in Louisiana, he shared in the battles of Camp Bisland and Pattersonville, in the assault upon Port Hudson, and in the perilous Red River expedition.  In August 1863, he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant and transferred to Co. H.  In October, 1863, he was promoted to the First lieutenancy of the same Company, and was in command of the same in the battle where he met his death, the Captain, York, being absent at the time upon detached service.  In every trust he exhibited a fidelity and capacity adequate to the duty, where resolute bravery was never more needed, and he died, as Christian parents and patriots would wish their sons to die, battling manfully for the liberties of this country, and leaving a name hallowed in the hearts of the virtuous and the good.

The following letter from Surgeon Wagner announces tin fitting words the sad particulars, and pays a deserved tribute to the young and chivalrous soldier:

Office 19th A.C. Hospital, Winchester, Va. Sept 25th, 1864

H. Packer, Esq:  My Dear Friend:  I seize the earliest opportunity to write you a line in reference to the death of your brave nephew.  However great the loss to his friends nod immediate relatives, yet to his country it is irreparable.  He was a hero.  I would be willing to give a thousand lives to die as he died.  After all the color bearers were shot down, he seized the battle flag and flaunted it defiantly at the enemy, before he received his wound.  When brought from the field, the first expression he made to me was that I must take out the ball, that he might "go back and fight them again."  I immediately sent him to a house nearby, where Col. Per Lee had been sent. During the time I was overwhelmed with the wounded brought, to me.  When I returned to him, I told him his wound was mortal.  Then replied the brave boy, "Tell my friends I die just as I wanted to.  I die perfectly happy.  I died for my country."  He was calm, dispassionate, but terribly in earnest, Idolized by the soldiers, no young officer has left a name more imperishable than Lieutenant Breed.  Hereafter his name will be the synonym of all that is true, noble and chivalrous.

Oh, how perfectly inadequate are any words I may write, to do justice to his memory.  When I have leisure, I will write more in detail to his heart-broken mother.  Give his parents and relatives assurances of my deepest sympathy for this bereavement.  Accept for yourself my sincerest regards, and believe me, most truly,  Your Friend, L.P. Wagner.

We learn that Capt. R.A. Stanton of this village, has gone to Winchester for the purpose of obtaining and bringing home lieut. Breed's remains.   Chenango Union.

Since the above was published, we learn that Capt. Stanton has returned with the remains of Lieut. Breed, and that on Sunday last his funeral was largely attended at the residence of his father in Norwich, the Rev. Mr. Scoville officiating, taking for the foundation of his very appropriate remarks on the occasion, the scripture, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith, henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness."  Prof. Barber, now of the Oxford Academy, who had charge of the education of Lieut. Breed at Norwich, and at this place, with swelling heart, spoke at the funeral, bearing testimony to the scholarly and manly life and virtues of the deceased, while under his charge.  Col. PerLee of the immortal 114th, was also present and in fitting words paid a touching tribute to the soldierly conduct, the prowess and the valor of the deceased. Though a lion in the field, the colonel here was as a child, freely mingling his tears of sympathy with the bereaved relatives and sorrowing friends. So with heavy hearts, they gently--gently passed to his resting place, that good and brave young man.  He sleeps in triumph and in honor.

Civil War - Battle of September 19th, 1864 and the 114th NY Regiment

The following is a follow-up to the posting of November 19, with further details of the participation of the 114th NY Regiment in the Battle near Winchester Va.  The author is unknown, but definitely present at the battle.

Chenango Union, October 12, 1864

Harrisonburg, Va. Sept. 27, 1864

For some weeks the armies of Sheridan and Early had confronted each other, each showing a strong front, and neither seeming desirous of an engagement.  On the 18th of September, Sheridan's force, consisting of the 6th, 8th and 19th Corps, with three divisions of Cavalry, was in bivouac on the right of the Berryville Pike, and about two and one-half miles below the town.  Reports had massed Early's force at Bunker hill, a few miles to our front and right.  It was estimated that it numbered forty thousand.  This had been the position of officers for some days, when it was rumored that Gen. Grant was at Sheridan's Headquarters.

As soon as it became known that Grant was at Charlestown, it was talked in circles official and unofficial that a movement was on foot.  It seemed as if by common consent officers and men concurred in the opinion, and no one was surprised when we received news to move at 1 P.M. of Sunday. We were delayed, however, until 2 A.M. of the morning following, when the whole army took up its line of march.  We pushed rapidly on, heavy firing being constantly heard at the front.  At 11 A.M. we halted in the woods, and began our preparations for the battle.

In this account I will hardly be expected to particularize regarding the positions, &c.., of the different Corps engaged, but will endeavor to give a general view, with an eye to the part taken by the 114th N.Y.  The scene of action was about two and one-half miles below Winchester.  The country was a rolling farm, interspersed with woods.  The 1st Brigade formed in a wood in column by Regiments, the 114th in front.  The Second Division of the 19th Army Corps had been in the advance, engaged the enemy, and being outnumbered was falling rapidly back in considerable disorder.  The 114th was now pushed forward out of the wood, and into a clearing of some hundred yards in depth; then a heavy wood in the back ground.  The 114th formed its line in this clearing with nothing on either flank.  In the edge of the skirt of woods in front, we could see the rebel line, and their battle flags.  No sooner had we established our line, and passed the retreating portion of the Second Division to our rear, than we received a murderous volley from the enemy.  Our men now commenced loading and firing rapidly. The enemy's fire was terribly destructive, but our line remained unbroken.  Col Per Lee passed constantly along the line, encouraging the men, urging them to hold the line, and speaking words of cheer to all. Each company commander saw his men falling, one, two and three at a time, until remnants were all that remained.  In this exposed position our Regiment stood for more than a whole hour, amid this incessant rain of lead.  The enemy taking advantage of the fact that our flanks were exposed, got an enfilading fire on us, on the left with musketry, on the right with artillery and musketry.  The other Regiments of the Brigade had deployed in our rear.  Thus you will see that one Regiment, and that our own, singly and alone, was for more than one hour under the fire of at least a whole Brigade of the enemy, and subject in addition to an enfilading fire.  But for all this, not a man blanched, nor a face showed anything but a stern determination to remain until ordered to retire, even though the ground on which that line of battle stood were to be the trench wherein it would be buried The order came to retire our line into the wood, and it was only until that moment that our fearful destruction became apparent.  The battalion, now a handful of men, retired in the best of order, and on its colors.  On nearing the wood, we moved to the right of the 116th and 153d NY., which had now deployed into line, and made across an open field two hundred yards in depth, led by Major Curtis, and subjected to a most scathing fire from the enemy, which was secreted in the woods.  Two color bearers had already been shot down, and the entire color guard annihilated.  

Having successfully charged across this field, we halted in rear of a rail fence, and opened our fire on the enemy.  All this time the artillery was making fearful havoc in our ranks.  This position was still in rear of our first and fatal line, and we held it until every round of ammunition was exhausted, and then fell back to the woods.  Re-supplying ourselves with ammunition, we again showed as bold a front as our thinned ranks would allow, and again a steady fire checked the advancing line of the enemy, and forced him again under cover of the woods.  We knew the importance of holding this position; it must be held at all hazards, in any event.  It was held.  Had it been yielded, the enemy would have massed his forces in that wood, and the day would have been lost to us.  For three hours we held their line, and were then relieved by the 8th corps. The process of reorganization now began, and we found we had lost eight officers and one hundred and eighty-two men.  Thus in a few hours our Regiment had been reduced in its effectual strength over one-half.  We lost more than any other three Regiments in our Corps, and nearly twice as much as the rest of our entire Brigade. As a compliment to the 114th, I heard a staff officer say that the result of the day rested in checking the enemy in its pursuit of the broken portion of the Second Division, and the General wished to put forward a Regiment which he knew would stay where it was put!

The enemy, which had not only been checked, but seriously whipped by our Corps, now began flight before the 8th Corps, and we joined in pursuit.  We followed them to Winchester, having fair sight of our cavalry charge over the hill in front of the town.  This was a splendid affair. The cavalry continued to push the enemy forward and the infantry bivouacked for the night.  Of the scene after the battle I will say nothing, for at the North you know as much of war as a "Nicholdemus did of the new new birth," and no more.  Would that the good, quiet people of Chenango, all, young and old, could have marched over that field of death.  "None linger now upon that plain, Save those who ne'er will fight again."  

Darkness drew a curtain over the scene, and tired, hungry and thirsty, we lay down to think of the day, and march on the morrow.

Early on the following morning, we moved forward after the flying enemy, pursuing his rear closely.  But he must have some rest; and taking a strong position on Fisher's Hill, near Strasburg, he made a stand, but was flanked and charged out of the position, the natural advantages of which can hardly be excelled.  From that time until our arrival at Harrisonburg, the evening of the 26th, we have closely pressed the rear of the enemy annoying and scattering him.  The veteran army of Gen. Early now a disorganized mob, throwing away arms, and making shelter in woods and mountains.

The result is a most splendid victory, a victory followed up which makes it doubly so.  The dead and wounded were left in our hands. We have taken over six thousand prisoners, 26 pieces of artillery, and the effectual strength of armed men lost to Early cannot be less than ten thousand.

Approval of Our Conduct

Headquarters, First division, 19th, A.C., Near Harrisonburg, Va. Sept 26, 1864

Maj. O.H. Curtis:  Sir:  I am directed by the Brig. General commanding the Division to express to the officers and men of the 114th N.Y. Vols., his high appreciation of the noble conduct displayed and signal service rendered by the regiment on the 19th inst. during the engagement at Winchester.  The loss sustained but too clearly attests the peril of the position held, and the devotion shown by the regiment on that day, exposed as it was for three hours to a heavy cross fire of musketry and artillery.  

The general, while regretting the severity of the loss, rejoices that so gallant a body of men is attached to the Division under his command.

You are requested to publish this to your commend.  Very respectfully your obedient servant.  I.G. Leefe, Acting Assistant Adjutant General.

Suffice to say, this is glory enough for one day.  Our regiment, that is, the remaining remnant, is in the best of spirits, all rejoicing over the great victory, but few of which will bring us  lasting and honorable peace.

Vital Records - September 1853

 Oxford Times, September 7, 1853

Died:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., Miss Lefa Balcom, aged 83 years.

Oxford Times, September 14, 1853

Coroner I.C. Bourne of Masonville [Delaware Co., NY] was called upon, on Tuesday of last week, to hold an inquest on the body of a man found in the barn of John Cole in Hancock, Delaware Co., about 9 miles from this village [Deposit, Delaware Co., NY].  The following facts elicited by the jury have been kindly furnished us by Dr. S.D. Higgins of this village, who was called upon by the coroner as a witness:

On Sunday last, Mr. Cole was in his barn and found on the mow a straw hat nearly new and a pair of boots, but supposing them to belong to a brother, no suspicion was excited.  On Tuesday morning of this week going into the barn after a cradle and having to pass over this mow, his nose was assailed by an intolerable stench and on looking for the cause, he saw a large quantity of flies in the hay, and flying about and on going there became alarmed from appearances and immediately went out and called in some neighbors (James M. More and C. Cannon)  They went on to the mow and removed the hay about one foot, when they found the body of a man that had apparently lain there for a number of days.  (The coroner was immediately sent for, who called a jury).  The body was that of  a man rather of medium size apparently 30 to 35 years old.  On removing the  neck cloth they found his throat cut across the front and right side, the large artery on the right side being severed, there were two wounds, apparently caused by a dirk, one in the breast in front, and the other on the left side, neither of which was fatal and a bruise on the right side, the right ear was cut or torn off, the head was in such a state of decomposition, that it was impossible to tell whether there were any other wounds on it.  From appearances the body had lain there 5 or 6 days.  The dress consisted of satinett pants of a mixed reddish drab color, a blue mixed satinette or cashmere vest, a shirt of hickery cloth, or blue and white cloth, lined with white, a black cravat and coarse boots.  The right pocket of his pants was cut or torn off.  In his pocket were found two letters, directed to Thomas Burke, one dated at Pond Eddy, no signature to it; the other written August 15th 1853, requested an answer to be sent to Ripley, Chautauqua Co., NB.Y. signed James Clark.  Inside of his hat was written with a pencil, Thomas Burke and James McCarthy.  On the mow was found a part of a razor case, and in the river, some ten rods from there, a razor, which had apparently been there but a few days. Verdict of the jury in accordance with the facts.  As hearing on the above case, and giving some clue to his death, are learn that a man by the name of Thomas Burke, who had heretofore lived with Mr. Fuller, of this village, called at his house on Thursday last in company with another man that he called James McCarthy or McGuire.  Mr. Fuller's people were not certain which. Mr. Fuller says Burke, when he lived with him, was in the habit of carrying considerable money about his person, and always carried it in his right pocket.  They were inquiring for work.  Burke had in his hand a pair of boots and a bundle, the other man had on blue overalls, and I believe a hickory shirt; was rather under the medium size.  They were both Irish. Two men, bearing the above description were seen by Mr. H. Travers, about half way from here to where the body was found on Thursday, just before night.  Burke was evidently murdered and robbed and appearances are very strong against his companion.  Deposit Democrat. 

Married:  In this village on the 13th inst. by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. William Alcott to Miss Maryette Norton, both of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., by Willis Gregory, Esq., Mr. Edward W. Nickerson of Oxford [Chenango co., NY] to Miss Mary Foot of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY].

Died:  In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], after a short illness, Mr. Simeon Miles, aged 83 years.  Thus has passed away the last of three brothers, who emigrated form Connecticut, at an early period in the history of Chenango County, when most of it was a howling wilderness, enduring at times the severest hardships, but with moral courage, a strong arm, and a determined purpose, the stately trees fell before them, and the solitary places were made to rejoice and blossom as the rose.  Mr. M. was a man of decision, of character, a member of Christ's visible Church; and as he had lived, so he died the death of the Christian.  His end was peaceful, he met the king of terrors firm and undismayed.

Died:  In German [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th, Mr. Silas Thomas, aged 61 years.

Oxford Times, September 21, 1853

Married:  In Otego [Otsego Co., NY], Sept. 21st, b Rev. A. Queal, Mr. Edward L. Bennett, of Bennettsville, Chenango Co., to Miss Francis M. Saunders, of Otego.

Oxford Times, September 29, 1853

Married:  In this village [Chenango Co., NY], in the Congregational Chruch, on the evening of the 21st inst. by Rev. H. Callahan, Mr. Charles Meeker, formerly of Redding, Ct., to Miss Anna Maria Seymour of Oxford.

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th inst., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Orlando Smith of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Caroline Holdredge, of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  At the same time and palce, by the same, Mr. Charles H. Holdredge of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Anna M. Smith of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Otego [Otsego Co., NY], on the 21st inst., by the Rev. E. Baldwin, Mr. John Gadsby of Morris, Otsego co., to Miss Mianda Brown of the former place.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango co., NY], on the 27th inst., Mrs. Abigail Holdredge, aged 52(?) years.

Civil War Letter from the NY 114th Regiment - September 1864

 Oxford Times, October 12, 1864

Harrisonburg, Va. Sept. 27th, 1864

Mr. Editor:  It gives me pleasure, after a week of unrest, to find a quiet hour to pass with my friends, in which to tell them the story of our work. The excitement began Sunday the 18th inst.; the whole command being ordered to move at 1 o'clock, p.m.  This order was, however, suspended for the present and the camp was ordered pitched.  None however confidently expected to be allowed to sleep the night through, for the Lieutenant General had just paid Sheridan a flying visit.  That, to the soldiers seemed ominous.  Consequently none were disappointed when the order came to move at 2 o'clock, a.m., on the 19th.  The cavalry led the advance closely followed by the Sixth corps, next 19th, the 8th bringing up the rear. At daylight the column had advanced perhaps five miles on the Berryville Pike towards Winchester, and the cavalry was already engaged with the enemy, strongly posted on the west side of the Opequan, where they had entrenched themselves with a determination to dispute the crossing.  But after a short but spirited skirmish, the cavalry charged, drove them from their intrenched line and dismounting pursued them closely for ten miles through a densely wooded ravine, where a smaller force could have made a stronger stand.  the Sixth corps pushed rapidly forward closely followed by the 19th and 8th.  Beyond this wooded field, and distant about three miles from Winchester, was a large cleared farm extending for three quarters of a mile on either side of the Pike and about half a mile in width.  Here the 6th and 19th corps were deployed in three lines of battle. The 6th to the left, and the 19th to the right of the road during which the enemy was annoying us with artillery.  Our batteries replying briskly.

The question was even then raised shall we have a battle, or is this, simply one of those movements called "A recognizance in Force!"  Bur we had not long to wait for about 11 o'clock the "forward" was sounded, we were the attacking party.  The 19th corps was formed with the 1st Division on the right, in columns by Brigades.  The 2d Division had four, and 1st only two Brigades present, for that reason, I suppose, our Brigade of the 2d Division was deployed in front of the 1st Division.  The Brigades of the 1st Division were not deployed in line, but were in column by Regiment, the 114th holding the right of the 1st, to be deployed either to the right or left of the 114th, as further developments should demand.  In this manner we moved.  Immediately in our whole front was a dense wood, I should think a thousand yards deep perhaps two thousand.  Midway through the wood was a clearing running obliquely through the wood two hundred yards in width. In the rear of this opening in the woods the enemy had massed his forces intending to turn our right.  No sooner had we begun to advance than the enemy opened his artillery upon us, and the woods were indeed hideous with the screeching and bursting shell and the distant musketry. The first line was hotly engaged.  The second line, which in our division consisted of the 1st Brigade in columns by Regiment, pushed rapidly on and had early reached the opening in the wood before the Regts. deployed into line. During the deployment, the 114th marched straight to the front. As the Regt. reached the opening, the line in our front, the 1st line, was repulsed and driven back in confusion.  Many ran thro' our line, some attached themselves to our ranks, but all was confusion and defeat.---As our Regt. became uncovered we found ourselves confronted by at least four Regiments, and were badly unsupported either either on our right or left flanks apparently, although the brigade was forming on our right from fifty to one hundred yards in the rear.--On they came from out the opposite wood, banners flying, and opened on us with a murderous fire.  But our brave men [shrunk] not before that storm of leaden hail, although their comrades fell thick and fast around them.  At this point my horse was shot from under me, and [there were] two apertures through my pants at the knee.  Col. PerLee [..?..].  [..?..] Lieutenants and at least one hundred and fifty men paid the penalty for their firmness.  Twenty of them were killed.  The colors had fallen twice to the ground.  In short the Regt seemed about annialated.  But the men had done their duty.  The Maj. Gen commanding corps, said the position must be held at all hazards and it was held.  The enemy was held in check. The Brigade had time to form its line.  A Battery was brought to be support and the day was saved.  I ordered the Regt. to face back to the rear of the Brigade which it did in good order bringing many of their wounded with them.  Here we stopped.   

[..portion unreadable..]

Here the Brigade remained firing steadily, holding the enemy in check until entirely out of ammunition, when it fell back, under cover of the wood, and then received a supply of ammunition.  From that point they kept up a sharp fire until relieved by the 8th corp.  They soon charged in conjunction with the other corps and cavalry and finally swept the enemy from the field, and as Sheridan had, sent them whirling through Winchester.  I forgot to say however that after we had formed on the right we lost several men, among them Lieut. Breed.  Throughout the entire day he behaved himself splendidly.  I was slightly wounded here in the left fore arm, another piece tearing my right coat sleeve. Thus we fought for three long hours, exposed on every side to a hot fire of musketry and artillery.  In short the 114th did its duty. We took no part in the action of the 22d except that our Regiment held the picket line on the left. But we joined in the pursuit and we enjoyed the victory. Early has been routed entirely from the valley.  He could have spared 15,000 men, and 30 pieces of artillery from his command, and been stronger than he is today. We are now pleasantly encamped, getting up supplies and reinforcements, whether we push on remains to be seen.  It will take a good army to whip us now.

Your, truly,  O.H.C.

Vital Records - August 1853

 Oxford Times, August 4, 1853

Married: In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 31st ult., by Rev. C.E. Hewes, Mr. Hezekiah Simpson to Miss Susan Tyler, both of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Deposit [Delaware Co., NY], on the 11th ult., by Rev. Mr. McKinney, Mr. J.B. Chaffee of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Sarah E. Rogers, daughter of Dr. T.S. Rogers, of the former place.

Married:  At Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th ult. by Gen. W. Somer, esq., Wm. H. Brownell, Esq. of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Lucia S. Groes(?), of New Lisbon, Otsego Co.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] on the 27th(?) ult. Mrs. Annie Ketchum, wife of Eligah Ketchum, aged 55 years.

Oxford Times, August 10, 1853

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 20th ult., Mrs. Emeline Barnett, wife of  Mr. E.B. Barnett, formerly of Morrisville, Madison Co., aged 35 years.

Oxford Times, August 17, 1853

Married:  At East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst., by Rev. A. Gibson, Mr. S.G. Martin of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Clarissa Brown of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY].

Oxford Times, August 24, 1853

Struck by Lightning:  On the evening of Friday, of last week, the barn of Mr. Jackwaye of Brookfield [Madison Co., NY], was struck by lightning and burned, the barn was filled with hay and grain.  Loss about $500.

Another:  On Saturday last, one of the barns belonging to Barnes Skinner of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], was struck by lightning and that with two others and a horse barn standing near were consumed with their contents of hay and grain, and in the horse barn were at the time one horse, some harnesses, sleighs and carriages which were all burned.  This is a severe loss as it took all the hay and grain Mr. S. had raised this season, which he just got secured.  His loss is about $1000.  But this was not enough, in the evening but a few hours after the burning of his barns during another shower, his house was struck by lightning, tearing one of the chimneys to pieces, but not otherwise injuring it.  The family escaped unhurt, except a slight shock.

Still Another:  Capt. Wm. Newton, living about a mile north of Sherburne  village, while standing in his yard in front of his house was prostrated by a stroke of lightning. The lightning struck a gate post about 20 feet from him, splintering that and the other gate, and some of the fence attached to pieces.  A part of the fluid must have struck  Mr. Newton, as it knocked him down, tore his hat to pieces and his pantaloons and leaving a mark down from his thigh on his leg.  He was not otherwise hurt except being pretty badly shocked.  It seems that an iron rod ran from the tap of the post to the ground through the gate, it is probable that the fluid passed off on this rod, which is no doubt all that saved Mr. N's life.  Hamilton journal

Died:  At Fort Wayne, Indiana, on Tuesday, 9th inst., of chronic inflammation of the bowels, Mr. Chas. L. Thompson, aged 31 years, formerly of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY].

Oxford Times, August 31, 1853

Married:  In this village [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th inst., by Rev. A.S. Graves, Mr. Jared D. Wheeler to Miss Mary L. Adams, both of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., by Rev. C. Darby, Mr. Edward Ackerman to Miss Matilda M. Terwileger, all of Greene.

Died:  In this town [Afton, Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th inst., Orril Augusta [Hunt], aged 3 years and 5 months.  On the 26th inst., Gertrude E. [Hunt], aged 6 years and 6 months, children of Charles L. and Mary Hunt.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th, Julius A. Parker, aged 19 years, son of Mr. Sylvanus Parker.

In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th inst., Mr. Arnold D. Conkey, aged 31 years.

Civil War Letters from the NY 114th Regiment - September 1864

 Oxford Times, October 12, 1864

The 114th Regiment:  The General commanding the Division in which the 114th Regiment is a part, has ordered the following letter to be communicated to that now veteran band of heroes, for their gallant and signal service in the battle of the 19th ult.

Near Harrisonburg, Va.,, Sept. 26, 1864

Maj. O.H. Curtis, Commanding 114th N.Y.:  Sir:  I am directed by the Brig. Gen. Commanding the Division, to express to the officers and men of the 114th N.Y. Vols. his high appreciation of the noble conduct displayed, and signal service rendered by the Regiment on the 19th inst., during the engagement at Winchester. The heavy loss sustained, but too clearly attests the peril of the position held, and the devotion shown by the regiment on that day, exposed as it was for three hours to a heavy cross fire of musketry and artillery.  The General, while regretting the severity of the loss, rejoices that so gallant a body of men is attached to the Division under his command.

J.G. Leepe, A.A.A. Gen'l.

Letter from the Surgeon of the 114th Reg.

The following letter from L.P. Wagner, Surgeon of the 114th, enclosing a statement of the honored dead of that Regiment, will be read with interest.  No one can read the feeling tribute paid by Dr. W. to the valor and patriotism of that noble band of heroes, without a mingled sentiment of sorrow and pride. Sorrow for the heroic dead; pride for both living an dead, whose deathless renown consecrates their names in the memory of their native county.

Winchester, Va., Oct. 2, 1864

Editor of Times:  Enclosed I send you a list of the killed and mortally wounded, who have since died from wounds received on the 19th of Sept. There are a number of others who can't survive many days.  Among the number is Lt. Aylesworth.  I have seen many battles, but have never seen such sublime heroism as that shown by the 114th boys on that day.  God bless them.  The best blood of old Chenango was pitted against the "Chivalry" and Stonewall Jackson's best troops at that; but they wavered and broke and fled in confusion. The rebels say it is the first time they ever ran.

Gen. Wenzel once remarked to me that the material of good soldiers of the 114th Reg. was the best he ever saw.  That was nearly two years ago.  They have at the expense of much good blood, earned that compliment given by one of the best military judges of the country.  Honor the heroic dead, good people of Chenango!  and be assured that there is not a single heart throb among their living associates, which does not beat with a determined will, that this war shall only terminate with the overthrow and if needs be, annihilation of treason.

L.P. Wagner

A list of the killed and mortally wounded of the 114th Reg. in the Battle of Sept. 19th, 1864, at Winchester, Va., and have since died.

L.D. Merrill, private, Co. A--killed on the field

James E. Smith, private, A--died in Hospital, Sept. 19, of wounds.

W. Jackson, private, B--died in hospital Sept. 20, of wounds.

H. Newton, private, B--killed on field.

J. Nichols, private, B--killed on field.

C. Carpenter, private, B--killed on filed.

L.P. Brown, private, B--killed on field.

Lyman Duran, private, C--died in Hospital, Sept. 20th, of wounds.

Geo. Cramphin, corporal, D--killed on field.

Patrick Devaney, private D--died in hospital, Sept. 21, of wounds.

G. Collins, private, D--died in Hospital Sept. 21, of wounds.

L. Gifford, private D--died in Hospital Sept. 25, of wounds.

Charles Stever, private, D--died in Hospital, Sept. 29, of wounds.

W.H. Benedict, private, D--killed on field.

W. Horton, corporal, E--died in Hospital, Sept. 21, of wounds.

W. Corbitt, private, E--killed on field.

Stephen Weaver, 1st Sergt, F--died in Hospital, Sept. 21, of wounds.

G.R. miller, Corp. F--killed on field.

A. Davis, private, F--killed on field.

C.F. Sunney, 1st sergt, G--killed on field.

C.E. Thompson, private, G--killed on field.

J. Cahalan, private, G--killed on field.

F.E. Short, private, G--killed on field.

E. Breed, 1st lieut. H--died in Hospital Sept. 19, of wounds.

J. Cooper, private, I--killed on field.

J. Wallace, private, K--died in Hospital, Sept. 20, of wounds.

C.C. Lyman, private, K--killed on field

A. Pangburn, private, K--killed on field

J. McCullough, private, K--died in Hospital, Sept. 25, of wounds.

Vital Records - July 1853

 Oxford Times, July 6, 1853

Andrew McNulty, a young man of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], was drowned in the Chenango River in that place on the evening of the 1st inst.  He was in the act of bathing with two or three others all of whom were unable to swim, when getting into deep water, and no one able tor ender any assistance, he was drowned.  His body was found after a prolonged search in about 10 feet depth of water.

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th(?) ult. by Elder Kennell, Mr. Charles Pearce(?) of Norwich to Miss Lucy Ann Fisk, daughter of David Fisk of Oxford.

Married:  In Triangle, Broome Co., on the 19th ult. by Rev. L. Johnson, Mr. Charles H. Green of Belmont, Penn. to Miss Amey S. Walker of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]. 

Oxford Times, July 13, 1853

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., Mr. John Randall, aged 75 years.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult., Hannah P. [Corbin], eldest daughter of John and Lavina Corbin, aged 13 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., Mrs. Mercy Darling, aged 82 years.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Harriet E. [Bunnell], wife of Mr. Charles F. Bunnell, aged 23 years.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d ult., Mr. Henry B. Latham, aged 63 years.

Oxford Times, July 20, 1853

Married:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., by Wm. Pendleton, Esq., Mr. Frederick Bigsbee, to Miss Adeline Spencer, both of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., by the Rev. Geo. J. Kercher, Mr. David Rogers to Miss Amelia English, both of Greene.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th inst., after a short illness, Elizabeth [Miller], wife of Mr. Epaphras miller, aged 66 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst., Mr. Robert Gibson aged 70 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Mr. Martin E. Webb, aged 69 years.

Death of Larned:  Abijah Larned, who was convicted and sentenced to State Prison for robbing the Otsego Co. Bank, died of consumption at Auburn on Tuesday last.  He received a pardon from the Governor only the day before.  Letters received from there, say that he denied all participation in the robbery alluded to.  Cooperstown Republican.

Oxford Times, July 27, 1853

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the morning of the 6th inst., Sarah J. [Washburn], second daughter of J.Y. and Sarah A. Washburn, aged 6 years.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on Tuesday morning, 19th inst., Bennie C. Sheldon, only child of Mary and the late Cyrus A. Sheldon, aged 2 years and 9 months.  "Why weep for the young! Better that the light cloud should fade away in the morning's breath, than travel on thro a weary day to gather in darkness, and end in gloom."

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst., of consumption, Mr. Myron M. Smith, aged 26 years.

Civil War Letter from the NY 114th Regiment - July 1864

 Oxford Times,  July 20, 1864

From the 114th Regiment

We take the liberty of publishing a portion of a letter written in pencil, and in haste, by Major Curtis, on board the Crescent. Although probably not written with a view to publication, it contains matter which cannot fail to interest our readers.

On Board Steamer Crescent, Fortress Monroe, Va., July 10 [1864]

But a few days since, and the 19th Corps was quite pleasantly encamped at Morganzia, La., 180 miles above New Orleans, ostensibly for the purpose of keeping open the Mississippi.  Today, even while i write, our noble ship is steaming around Old Point, bearing on her decks the "Advance" of the corps, probably to join the veterans of the Potomac in this last desperate struggle for the Rebel Capital.  At 5:30 P.M., on the 1st, orders came for the 1st Division of the 19th Corps to hold itself in readiness to move to New Orleans by the first transportation that arrived   At 6 P.M. the order came to the 153d and 114th N.Y., to go on board this steamer immediately.  Sooner than I could write all the particulars, the camp was broken, baggage, rations and ammunition loaded, and off we steamed down the River, reaching the city at 11 A.am., on the 2d, where we remained until the evening of the 3d, to coal the ship, and take on 15 days rations.  At 8 P.M., we left the wharf, perfectly in the dark as to our destination.  The majority said Mobile. A few others suggested Fortress Monroe, not however very hopefully.  Let me here state that six companies of the 114th were ordered to go on board steamer Sophia, a small propeller, something like the Thames.  four companies under my command remained.  Col. Davis commanding the ship, was ordered to open his instructions, after discharging the river pilot at the mouth of the river.  Thus it was that at 9 o'clock A.M. of the glorious old Fourth, we knew our destination.

Need I tell you that the news was joyfully received. The veterans of the Army of the Gulf are willing, I need not say eager, to stand side by side with the heroes of so many battles, and if I mistake not, the material and the morale of our little army, they will find that the sunny south has not made us effeminate, and that we are equal to the task set to the sturdy sons of the north.

The 19th Corps now consists of three Divisions, two, the 1st and 2d, I think have been ordered here; about 15,000 men under command of Gen. Emory.  More may come, but further this deponent saith not.

From this it further appears that no means will be spared to make Grant's success certain and decisive.  So mote it be.  Up to the present no more of the troops are in sight.  Our friends will soon know where to look for us, and will expect much of us.  I hope they will not be disappointed.  our Regiment is about 470 strong, and in good condition.  My health is good.

Monday, 14th: Instead of going up the James, as we expected, we are steaming up the Potomac, hastening on to Washington, whither all the troops coming from New Orleans are ordered, I suppose to chase the rebels now disturbing the slumbers of the Pennsylvania Dutch.  Well, they call us Banks' foot Cavalry, and we can march, and very glad of an opportunity of visiting Washington. The ride up the Potomac is indeed delightful, somewhat different from the Bayous of the low lands of Louisiana.

Vital Records - June 1853

 Oxford Times, June 1, 1853

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult., Mr. John Cook, aged 82 years.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult. Mary [Loomis], wife of Mr. Daniel Loomis, 2d, aged 45 years.

Oxford Times, June 8, 1853

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult., by Rev. Wm. Reddy, Mr. John H. Bloom to Miss Mary Marsman, all of this place.

Married:  In Conklin, Broome Co., on the 25th ult., Mr. Nelson Coville of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Margarett Watrous, of the former place.

Died:  In this town [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., Mr. Thomas Root, aged 89 years.

Died:  In Hudson, N.Y. on 23d May, Mrs. Anna Folger, aged 91 years.

Died:  At Columbus [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., Samuel Campbell, Esq., formerly Judge of this County, aged 79 years.

Oxford Times, June 15, 1853

Married:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d ult., by Rev. S.W. Bush, Mr. James Bigelow Packer to Miss Achsar L. Turner of the same place.

Oxford Times, June 22, 1853

Found Dead:  Coroner A. Graves held an inquest on the 13th last on the body of Stephen Colgrove of Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY] who was found dead in the road on Saturday last.  Deceased was about 66 years of age and had been troubled at times with distressed feelings in the region of the heart.  On the day of his death he had two or three of those turns, but had been with his son to wash sheep in the afternoon.  His son left him to drive the sheep home, but when he did not come as soon as was expected, his son went to meet him and found him dead a short distance from his home. The Jury returned a verdict that his death termed Hypertrophic and a rupture of the artery at the bifurcation of the carotid arteries.  Otsego Republican.

Married:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst., by Rev. A.G. Burlingame, of Greene Rev. B.B. Carruth to Miss Hannah C. Leonard.

Married:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., by Rev. Mr. Southworth, Mr. Joseph Corker of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Jane Hartwell of Smyrna.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY] on the 10th inst., at the residence of his father, Demas Hubbard, Jr. of consumption, Franklin Hubbard, aged 21 years.

Oxford Times, June 29, 1853

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st inst., Caroline Elizabeth [Folger], only daughter of Ebenezer Folger, aged 5 years, 2 months and 16 days.

Died:  At his residence in Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], May 26th, 1853, Ozias Yale, Esq., in the 87th year of his age.  The subject of this notice emigrated when 26 years of age with his aged father and mother, and settled in Coventry (then called Jones' settlement).  That section of country was then a wilderness, the stillness of the forest being broken only by the scream of the Panther, the howl of the wolf, and the more terrible whoop of the Red Man.

Mr. Yale's first wife, a most amiable and inestimable woman, bore him two sons, which were taken from him in their boyhood, and two daughters who are still living.  The loss of his sons, rendered to Mr. Yale more difficult the task of clearing and improving his new farm.  Oft has the writer of this heard him recount his sorrow with tears, for the loss of his children, and the still deeper grief for the loss of his excellent wife, who a few years after followed her sons to the silent grave. But he was a man of determined mind, a strong body and excellent constitution and the difficulties and hardships of a new country all vanished before him like the early dew.  By steady industry, economy and perseverance he worked out for himself an early competence, always providing abundantly the luxuries of good living for himself and family.  Soon after the death of his wife he married Agnes, eldest daughter of Rev. H.T. McGeorge, by whom he was blest with a family of eight children, three sons and five daughters, most of whom with other friends, stood around his death bed "to point the parting anguish."  Long will that family mourn the loss of a kind husband and affectionate father.  Long too, will a large circle of friends and neighbors mourn, that a man in every sense of the word, has passed from among them.  He ever evinced great fondness for reading and could even till late in life, converse fluently on matters of history and general intelligence. He was a man of correct morals and strict integrity, and was highly respected by the community in which he resided, who selected him as early as 1801, as a Justice of the Peace, and subsequently at different times he was elected to most of the various town offices.  Mr. Yale was among the few who first opened the road to the villages of Greene and Oxford, the latter at that time containing but one framed dwelling.

There is now but one man living in Coventry who settled in that town as early as Mr. Yale.  He always contributed cheerfully and largely to the support of the gospel, but it was not until about 20 years since, that he became hopefully converted to Christianity, and to use his own words "nothing but the power of God could have wrought so great and important a change in his mind."  Since that time he has been a regular and consistent member of the first Congregational Chruch, and he died as he lived, trusting in God for eternal salvation.

Died:  In Watertown, Jefferson Co., N.Y., June 17th, Mary F. Corey, niece of Henry Balcom of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], aged 25 years.  "There is no flock however watched and tended / But one dead lamb is there, / There is no fireside however soe'er defended / But has one vacant chair."

Civil War Letter from NY 114th Regiment - May 1864

 Oxford Times, June 15, 1864

From the 114th Regiment:  We learn by a letter from Major Curtis, that the headquarters of the 114th were at Marganzen, La., on the 24th May, the date of the letter and that the Regiment were in good spirits, but much wearied by the Red River campaign. The 10th Corps to which the 114th is attached is to be brought together again, and their duty will be to protect the river and keep it open, liable to be drawn on by Companies, Regiments, Brigades and Divisions as the case may require. Gen. Polk is said to be somewhere on the East with 30,000 and Dick Taylor on the West with 20,000 men, and it is thought that the latter will attempt to cross the river and join Polk, and both together try to obstruct the river. The 19th army corps is in command of Gen. Emory, and the following general order addressed to the 1st and 2d Divisions of that corps, including the 114th Regiment shows that the General appreciates the courage and soldierly qualities of that regiment, and that in the Red River campaign as upon former occasions, they were found true to themselves, true to their country, and fearlessly fighting and suffering for the right.

Headquarters 19th A.C., Simnsport, La., May 18, 1864

Gen'l. Orders, No. 48:  Soldiers of the 1st and 2d Division 19th A.C.:  It is my duty to express to you my high appreciation of your uniform good conduct throughout the late eventful campaign. This duty is rendered more imperative by the false reports of your operations which had met you at this point.  On the 8th of April at the first notice that our troops were engaged, the 1st Div., the only troops of the 19th A.C. then present, marched in double quick time seven miles to the front, formed line of battle under fire of the enemy, checked him and drove him back under circumstances the most trying that could befell troops. The whole advance composed of 8 or 10,000 troops was thrown back upon you in utter disorder and confusion, pell-mell with the enemy.  You formed line of battle under the enemy's fire, and amidst the frightful disorder with the regularity of forming for parade.  You drove the enemy from before you, and held the ground until ordered to fall back. The next day at Pleasant Hill, you of the 1st Div. bore the brunt of the enemy's furious attack, and only one Brigade, that on the left, gave way, because its left was unsupported, but they soon rallied and joined in the final charge, which drove the enemy from the field.  On the 23d at Cane River, you supported by the 13th A.C. found the enemy strongly posted to dispute the crossing of the river.  Led by the 3d Brigade of the 1st Div., you turned their flank and drove him at the point of the bayonet from the hills he occupied. At Alexandria, you contributed your labor by day and night, for 17 days, under the engineering skill of Lt. Col. Bailey, to the great work which relieved the fleet form its perilous situation above the falls, and restored it to the country. This in brief, is a summary of your services for the last two months. And I know when it becomes known to the country, the judgment will be that you, at least, did your duty faithfully.

W.H. Emory, Brig. Gen. Commanding.

Vital Records - May 1853

 Oxford Times, May 4, 1853

Married:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on March 31st, by Rev. W.N. Pearne, Mr. Nathaniel Drummond of German [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Harriet Burrows of McDonough.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], April 3d, Mr. Henry Van Ness, in the 51st year of his age.

Died:  At White's Corners, Potter Co., Pa., on the 13th ult., Melissa [Elder], wife of Mr. Wm. R. Elder, aged 36 years.

Oxford Times, May 11, 1853

Murderous Assault:  Smith Green, of Middletown, was lodged in jail last week, on a charge of shooting Milton Bushnell of the same town with intent to kill.  The gun with which Green shot was loaded heavily with buck shot, which took effect in the arms, hands, breast and face of Bushnell.  Both Green and Bushnell are said to be men of dissolute habits.  The outrage was committed during an attempt of Bushnell and some others to oust a notorious family from a tenement owned by Green.  Green was examined before N. Dimmick Jr. Esq., and folly committed; Mr. Murray dist. Att'y appearing for the prosecution, and J. Griffin, Esq., for the prisoner.  Not the slightest hope is entertained for the recovery of Bushnell, in the event of whose death within a year, from the shooting will make the case in law and of willful murder.  Delhi Express.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., Mrs. Clarissa F. Preston, wife of the late Ro... Preston, aged 40 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY]on the 7th inst., at the residence of her son, after a brief illness, Mrs. Thankful Burlingame, aged 72 years.

Died:  At Van ....'s Corners (Guilford) [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst. very suddenly, Florence C. [Sheldon] daughter of Wm. R. and Mary Sheldon, aged 4 months.

Oxford Times, May 18, 1853

Sad Accident:  A young man, by the name of Abraham Huginer of this village [Deposit, Delaware Co., NY], aged 20 years, came to his death very suddenly on Saturday last.  He was in the employ of the Railroad company in the capacity of brakeman upon a freight train, and while the train was passing over the bridge which crosses the Oquaga creek a short distance above the Depot, his head came in contact with some of the upper timbers of the bridge, and he was knocked into the stream below a distance of some fifteen feet.  His body floated down the stream fifteen rods before being recovered, and when taken up life was extinct.  Deposit Courier.

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst. by the Rev. W.W. Meech, Mr. Elam S. Barstow of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Hannah W. Walker of Oxford.

Married:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., by Rev. J. C. Ransom, Mr. Chas. C. North to Miss Sarah Dorman.

Died:  In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., Ann Jeannett [Justice], wife of Mr. Wm. A. Justice, aged 26 years.

Died:  In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., Mrs. Patience Blackman, aged 92 years.

Oxford Times, May 25, 1853

Married:  At the Baptist Church in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., by Rev. M. Stone, Mr. Romeo W. Lewis, of West Meriden, Ct., to Miss Mary S. Brooks, daughter of Lyman Brooks, Esq., of Norwich.

Married:  In Newburgh, Orange Co., on the 9th inst., by Rev. Mr. Sing, Col. Stephen L. Avery of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Mrs. Milliscent Topping, of the former place.

Died:  In Unadilla, Otsego Co., on the 19th inst., Mrs. Maria H. Woodruff, daughter of J.C. Foote, in the 29th year of her age.

Sister, though art resting now, / Happy in thy Savior's love; / Oh! may we prepare to meet thee-- / In those shining courts above. / We will check the scalding tear, / We will hush the rising sigh, / For we feel thou art rejoicing; / With the loved beyond the sky.

Civil War Letter from the 10th N.Y. Cavalry - May 1864

 Oxford Times, June 8, 1864

From the 10th N.Y. Cavalry:  We are permitted to extract the following from a letter lately received from Thomas C. Pettis, by his wife. It contains the sad intelligence of the death of Sheldon Bolles, by lightning, after having well and valiantly withstood the shock of shot and shell, and the death dealing rain of rebel bullets.

May 31st, Within 10 Miles of Richmond.

We have had some hard battles.  Ten days ago, we had the hardest cavalry battle that was ever fought; we drove them after some hard fighting, our loss was large, but the rebs was a good deal more.  One man in Co. K, was killed, his name was A. Martin.  Two were slightly wounded, one was George Booth, but the worst of all is that Sheldon Bolles is dead, he was struck by lightning and killed instantly.  I was a few rods from him.  I thought it struck close.  It killed 2 horses and there were several knocked down. We had a battle yesterday and they are fighting now a few miles from  here. We are now within 10 miles of Richmond, and we are waiting for orders. The infantry is ahead of us this morning, but I think we will have to get out on the flank in a little while.  If we can get Richmond, we will have them whipped, then we can come home.  Don't worry about me, I have plenty to eat and that the rebs can't say. They eat raw corn, that was all they had in their haversacks, for I saw over one hundred and fifty of those that were shot, and all they had was from one to two quarts of corn. They are hard up, and they will be harder up before Grant gets through with them.

Civil War Soldier News Items - 1863-1864

 Oxford Times, November 25, 1863

Death of Addison Beardsley:  With regret we record the death of Addison Beardsley.  He was one of that noble few who was willing to endure the perils and hardships of war, and if necessary to die for his country. At home he was always a dutiful son, an affectionate brother, and was much esteemed and respected by all. When about to enlist, he was reasoned with and the gloomy picture of a soldier's life set before him to dissuade him from his purpose. But his reply was that somebody would have to die, and it might as well be him as anyone.  His object was to serve his country, and well and faithfully he performed his duty.  All the information received from his officers, friends and fellow soldiers adds luster to his character.  In camp life he was ever laboring for the comfort of his associates, and on the battle field his powerful arm and determined spirit dealt horror to the foe.  In the engagement at Shepherdstown (while bearing dispatches) in July last, he was captured and taken a prisoner to Richmond.  He sleeps on Belle Island, where he died, and was respectfully buried.  Entombed in the sacred soil he gave his life to defend, no monument marks his resting place.  But when treason is banished from the land and Patriotism shall rear a monument worthy of her noble sons, his Epitaph will be written.  His funeral will be attended at the Universalist Chruch in Oxford, next Sunday, November 29th, at one o'clock. the Rev. C.E. Hewes of Hamilton will officiate.

Oxford Times, March 30, 1864

Death of George Lamphere:  With melancholy regret we so often record the death of someone of our brave soldiers.  It is no common event when one of our country's noblest sons falls a Martyr in the glorious cause of freedom; when one of the powerful arms which was raised against rebellion becomes nerveless and a heart that beat with patriotism ceases to throb.  George Lamphere was a soldier of the illustrious 10th N.Y. Cavalry, who have so nobly earned a reputation and so generously given their lives for the accomplishment of their object. And there was no one of their number who more faithfully performed his duty, or better secured the favor of his officers, and fellow soldiers. After an absence of 14 months in which time he endured the hardships and shared the glory of many battles, he received a furlough and returned to share with his loved ones the pleasures of home and then return to the field of duty.  But--  "He sleeps his last sleep / He has fought his last battle, / No sound can awake him to glory again."  On rising ground near his own dwelling surround by trees whose fragrant blossoms perfume the air, is a gentle mound which marks his resting place. And here will his countrymen oft times repair and shed the pious tear in holy reverence for his heroic virtues, and kindle anew the fire of patriotism in their hearts.

"Awake not his slumbers, tread lightly around, / 'Tis the grave of a freeman--'tis liberty's mound! / Oh! wake not the hero, his battles are o'er, / Let him rest, calmly rest, on his dear native shore, / While the stars and stripes of our country shall wave. / O'er the land that can boast of a Washington's grave."

His funeral will be attended at the Free Will Baptist Church in the east part of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], next Sunday, April 3d, 1864.   B.

Oxford Times, June 15, 1864

Soldiers at Home:  Orson Crumb of the 10th Cavalry who was very seriously wounded at Sulphur Springs last fall, and taken a prisoner to Richmond, and subsequently in hospital for many months, returned last week, and is doing well.  He has a fair prospect of comfortable health, if not entire recovery from his wounds.  John Raynor of the same regiment is also at home, and although suffering from a hip disease, is full of pluck and startling experiences of the soldier's life.

Vital Records, April 1853

 Oxford Times, April 6, 1853

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult., by the Rev. Mr. Gibson, Mr. Hezekiah Knickerbacker of Walton [Delaware Co., NY], to Miss Susan Ingraham of Oxford.

Married:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], in the Baptist Church, on the 27th ult., Mr. Harlow Bliven of McDonough, to Miss Julia Fener of German [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., Miss Hannah Symonds, aged 54 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., Maria [Seeley], daughter of Mr. Silas Seeley, aged 25 years and 10 months.  This gentle unpretending young lady has passed away, withering gradually as the lily of the valley, on whose hill her earthly remains are deposited.  Though not a member of any Church, she lived a life spotless and pious, and realized on her dying couch the hope of a better world and immortality, as warranted by Christian religion.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 31st ult., Mrs. Lucinda A. Gibson, wife of Mr. Stephen Gibson, Jr., aged 21 years, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Dix, Chemung Co., on the 16th ult., Mr. Daniel Tracy, aged 74 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st ult., of bilious fever, Andrew E. [Cohoon], son of Andrew and Hannah Cohoon, aged 19 years.

Oxford Times, April 13, 1853

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., by Rev. C.E. Hewer, Capt. J. Thompson of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Clarissa Green of Smithfield, Madison Co. [NY].

Died:  In Marion, Wayne Co. [NY], on the 28th March, Mr. Nelson J. Bartle, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 44 years.

Oxford Times, April 20, 1853

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst., by Rev. C.E. Hewes, Mr. Isaac J. Stratton to Miss Margaret M. Bartle.

Oxford Times, April 27, 1853

Married:  At Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., by Rev. Mr. Puffer, David L. Kelley, Esq., of Harpersville [Broome Co., NY] to Miss Eliza Ann Carter of Greene.