Civil War Letter - from Zeke Slow, October, 1861

 Union News, Broome County, New York, October 17, 1861

Camp Dickinson, Alexandria, Va., Oct. 8th, 1861

Mr. Benedict:  I have been to visit the oldest city but one in Virginia!  Last Monday, "Reuben" and I, by a singular streak of fortune, got a pass.  "Reuben" is my roommate and a good fellow is "Reuben."  Well Reuben and I, after a walk of ten miles (or less) entered the city of Alexandria, said city, situated on the Western bank of the Potomac, and which according to History, in 1795, "posseseth ye large population of 5,190 souls."  I was astonished at the grandeur of the architecture displayed in the most ancient of the buildings, and it was as much as I was able to do to persuade myself that I was not in Corinth or Rome itself.  Here was a large mausoleum, high in its proportions which I judged, could be nothing more nor less than an amphitheater.  I felt perfectly sure it was so, and concluded I would ask the permission of a grand looking functionary at the door the privilege of entering.  Did so, and was informed there were plenty of negros there without me.  Such language astonished me, and I tried to reason him into the belief that "all men were created equal," and that according to Hoyle, or somebody else, I had as much right to enter as the King of Greece himself!  Man in doorway laughed, and wanted to know if I had the "dockiment."  Couldn't for the life of me tell what he meant, and so answered in the negative.  Man in doorway said something about "fixing mo" and bawled out "Sergeant of the Guard, No. 1."  Remembered to have heard such a cry as that between guards at Camp, and concluded I had better be somewhere else.  Poked "Reuben" in the ribs and suggested the idea of buying some candy at a stand near by.  Man in doorway aimed gun at me, and told me to halt.  Sergeant of the Guard came up, and wanted to know what was up!  Told him I wished to explore ancient architecture, and man in doorway had objected.  S. of G. seemed puzzled at first, and then wanted to know if I had a pass?  Showed him that and he told us to pass on. Asked him what building that was, and was told it was the "slave pen," where they kept disobedient soldiers.  Felt cheap and wished I'd never come to war.

Downtown saw a building like unto the other, full of men.  Asked Guard if that wasn't a slave pen too?  Guard looked savage, and told me it was the Marshall House.  Had heard of the place before, and was afraid perhaps Jackson's or Ellsworth's ghost might show itself.  (P.S. My great-great-grandfather said he seen a ghost once, and I guess the disease "rune in the family.")  Saw a lot of folks in the second story window of a big house, and thought I'd go up there and see what was up, did so, and was told I was in Green's Daguerrean Rooms.  Had heard of that place, and told Green he might take me, provided he did not take me to the slave pen.  Green, put my head against a "thing.", and told me to look without winking  Tried the operation; but not liking it rubbed my eyes. Green took a box from a box (I had been looking at the biggest box) and went into a dark room.  Presently returned with the satisfactory information, that I had copied on plate seven heads and thirteen hands.  Thought he was joking, but said nothing.  Green set me in a chair, and told me to look again, and not move.  Tried it without winking, but couldn't make out and Green showed me plate no. 2 and asked opinion of it. Told him it looked some like a Baboon I had seen in a caravan tent up in York State. Green laughed, and told me it was myself.  Wanted to hit him; but didn't dare to 'cause I saw he had a powerful big fist.  After trial No. 6, Green got mad, and said something about losing money.  Didn't know but what somebody had picked his pocket, and ventured to ask him if it wasn't so. Green threatened to kick me if I didn't leave, and as I didn't want him to exert himself, I left.  Told "Reuben" Alexandria was a "mighty fine place," and I intended marrying here after war was over.  Next went to some other place, and told old lady to get me something to eat.  Old lady was tickled, and fried me one egg, and a piece of ham. Swallowed 'em in double quick and asked old lady how much I owed her,  Was told, after much calculating on her part, that I was a debtor for the sum of 25 cents.  Hunted in pocket book and found two ten cent pieces, and 3 pennies. Asked old lady if that wouldn't do and told her I hadn't another cent.  Old lady got madder than Green, the Daguerrean, and threatened to hand me over to the guard. Begged her on my knees not to do so cruel a thing and she let me go. Found "Reuben" in Green's Daguerrean Room, and, as I felt sick, told him I wanted to go home.  He consented to go with me and after being striped by every guard on our way, we reached camp.  Haven't got over being sick yet and as long as we stay in the vicinity of Alexandria don't intend to.  Bull Run is preferable to going a sight seeing in Alexandra.  I might talk of other hair breath escapes that happened to me while there if I chose, but I don't chose.  Love to everybody but Daguerreians and old women.

Zeke Slow

Vital Records - October 1856

 Oxford Times, October 1, 1856

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th ult., by the Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Austin Hamilton to Miss Polly G. Smith, all of Oxford.

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], 24th ult., by Rev. W. Bixby, Mr. James E. Brooks of Oxford, to Miss Isabella S. Farrand of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY].

Died:  In Prarie Du Chien, Wis., Aug. 15th, John Cary [Bradley], infant son of E.A. and H.M. Bradley.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 2, 1856

Married:  In Bridgewater, Oneida Co. [NY], on the morning of the 23d ult. by Rev. Mr. Cutter, Mr. G.M. Cole, of Clinton [Oneida Co., NY], to Miss M. Eliza Denison, of the former place.

Married:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], by Rev. E.D. Thurston, Mr. Cyrus W. Hamilton, of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Mary  Jane Dunning of the former place.

Died:  In Candis, N.H., on the 28th inst., Moses S. Emerson, Esq., of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], aged 51 years.

Died: In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY]  on the 30th ult., Mrs. Laura [Cushman], wife of Mr. Ugcnior Cushman, aged 51 years.  Most sudden and startling is the bereaving Providence embraced in this record.  But a few days since, this departed friend was among us in the seeming enjoyment of wonted health and it is most difficult to realize that she is gone.  The work of disease was indeed brief and rapid and compete.  Among the sad remembrances of their fearful bereavement is the fact that she was not conscious during the last two days of lingering life.  But her character in all the endearing relationships of life was too well [-?-] own to require the [-?-] of death bed [-?-] that she  was very ready to depart.  For many years she had been a communicant of the church to which her affections strongly clung, and she was a simple hearted, true and faithful disciple of her Lord and Saviour, kind and affectionate in the domestic circle, faithful and devoted in her friendships, beloved by many who so well knew her character and feel acutely her loss. There are features of this dark dispensation that make it gloomy to contemplate. A husband mourns the loss of a beloved and devoted wife.  Children just at the age to need a mother's counsel and care are stricken with orphanage.  An aged mother who was in a few days to make this departed daughter's house her abiding home during the remainder of her pilgrimage, is made most touchingly to feel her desolation and bereavement.  "But God's ways are not as our ways."  We have but to bow before Him and say, "thy will be done."  Among those who "through the chances and changes of life" will also miss her that is gone, are the sick and the needy. She was ever ready to minister as far as her power extended to those who need the kindly offices which these conditions and relations demand.  But she was too well known in our midst during a residence of many years to require extended notice here and her virtues are written imperfectly with the pen. They are traced more vividly and abidingly on the tender tablet of the heart  "Oh tis well with her; but who can tell, what the future, thick robed in darkness, may bring to us."

Oxford Times, October 8, 1856

Died:  In Preston, on the 24th ult., Mr. Asa Sheldon, aged 70 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on 22d ult., Col. Zadock Adams, of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], aged 76 years.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on 2d inst., Rosina T. Lamb, aged 15 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 9, 1856

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., Diana A. [Dibble] wife of Roderick R. Dibble, aged 26 years.

Oxford Times, October 15, 1856

Married:  In Poughkeepsie, Oct. 9th, in the first Dutch Reformed Church, by A. Mann, D.D., Mr. Augustus Cole of Oconto, Wisconsin, to Miss Frances M. Davis of Poughkeepsie [Dutchess Co., NY].

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., nY], on the 7th inst., Mr. Stephen Turner, aged 54 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 16, 1856

Married:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst. by Rv. E.D. Thurston, Jonathan C. Jones, of German [Chenango Co., NY] to Lucinda F. Emerson, of the former place.

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst., by Rev. E.D. Thurston, Anthony H. Lloyd, of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], to Jenette White, of Greene.

Married:  In Clarkville, Madison Co. [NY], on the 12th inst. by Rev. Eli S. Bailey, Mr. Paul Cheesebro, of  Leonardsville, N.Y. [Madison Co.], to Miss E. Jane Denison, of the former place.

Died:  In Willet [Cortland Co., NY], o the 18th inst., Parley Pember, aged 59 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 23, 1856

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d inst., by Rev. H.W. Gilbert, Mr. Lucius T. Darby, and Mrs. Mary S. Maynard.

Married:  At Morris, Otsego Co. [NY], on the 20th inst., by the Rev. Lyman Fisher, Alfred Borden, to Caroline Wiswell, both of South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst. by Rev. J. Chamberlin, Rufus Wells, to Eliza Tanner, both of Norwich.

Married:  In St. Peter's Church, Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst. by Rev. John Bailey, Thomas Evans, of Wilmington, N.C. to Addie Ford, of the former place.

Married:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] on the 5th inst. by Rev. S.A. Douglas, Charles J. Biggs, to Cynthia E. Wilbur.

Married:  Also, on the 16th inst. by the same, Abner W. Burlingame to Hannah E. Gage, all of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst., by G.W. Edwards, Esq., John P. Taylor to Losetta Lant, all of Lebanon, Madison Co. [NY].

Married:  In German [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., by G.H. Livermore, Esq., James Allen of Willet, Cortland Co. [NY] to Julia A Storing, daughter of  Hon. Adam Storing, of the above place.

Married:  In Cincinnatus, Cortland Co. [NY], on the 14th inst., by Rev. T.D. Wires, Levi Randall to Adelia L. Eddy, daughter of George W. Eddy, Esq., of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on the 14th inst., at the residence of Lewis Seymour, Esq., by Rev. Amos B. Beach, Lorenzo Seymour of Chicago (Ill), to Frances Seymour, of the former place.

Died:  In Cooperstown [Otsego Co., NY] on Thursday, the 2d inst., Cora Ann [Hewes], daughter of Patrick Hewes, aged 25 years.

 Oxford Times, October 29, 1856

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th inst., by the Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. James Palmer of Oxford to Miss Lucinda Ingram of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th inst., by the Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Isaac A. Simpson to Miss Sally F. Moore, all of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 20th, by Rev. J.B. Hoyt, Mr. Nathaniel V. Eastwood to Miss Mary Ann [Jossleyn], daughter of Mr. Charles Jossleyn, all of Coventry.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th inst., Clara [Willcox], wife of Mr. Eli Willcox, aged 46 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 30, 1856

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] Oct. 20th, by Rev. A.G. Burlingame, C.G. Whitcomb, to Betsey A. Church, both of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], Oct. 22d, by Rev. Chas. Stritt, Alonzo Scarritt, to Avis A. Card, both of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Lebanon, Madison county [NY], Oct. 21st, at the residence of O.B. Gilbert, by the Rev. Bela Palmer, Geo. P. Avery to Cornelia R. Pratt, both of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., Minnie C. [Tubbs], daughter of Moses Tubbs, aged 11 months and 3 days.

D.M. Holdredge, of Bainbridge, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY] was taken very singularly ill at the Girard House, New York, where he was stopping.  He fell asleep on Wednesday night and has not since awoke, though electricity and other stimulants have been applied.  It is thought there is an effusion of blood in the brain.  P.S.  He died on Sunday the 19th int. His remains were brought home for burial.

Civil War letter from O.E. Hine - October 1861

 Union News, Broome County, New York, October 17, 1861

Camp Leslie, Hall's Hill, Va., Oct. 4th, 1861

Friend News:  According to promise not to write very often, I will once more remind you that the Maine boys are still live soldiers, and anxiously awaiting an opportunity to test their ability to cope with the enemies of the flag that floats over our encampment.

The long interval since I last wrote you contains many events of interest to ourselves, and perhaps to friends at home, yet I have not time to give you more than a brief outline of our progress.

From Elmira to New York our journey was pleasant, and as interesting as the hearty congratulations of friends along the line could make it, until tired and worn out, we arrived upon the Battery and there pitched our tents, 'twas said, to rest for a couple of days.  Once more, after two busy days, in which, instead of resting we worked harder than ever, to distribute ammunition and arms, we packed up, and after a pleasant ride across the Bay, arrived at Amboy, and ten minutes after were in the cars for Philadelphia.  Our trip across the Bay was unusually interesting, as many had never had a ride upon the water, while those who had, found plenty of objects with which to entertain themselves. We passed close to Prince Napoleon's little frigate, and the cheers that rose in answer to our shout, told the old story over again, that the true countrymen of LaFayette love the cause of Republican Governments just as well as in the days of '76.

Our ride to Philadelphia was without particular interest.  But our stop there, though short, was as pleasant as a good supper, furnished and served by the ladies of the Quaker city could make it.  Some of the boys promised them that if they escaped "secesh" bullets, they would come right back there to select a partner with which to enlist during life.  When we reached Baltimore, we were greeted by the waving of handkerchief, as we passed through the same streets that were disgraced by the scenes of the memorable 19th of April.

Occasionally, I thought I could detect some scowling countenances among the better classes, but I heard no word of opposition, except from  one woman who hurrahed for Jeff Davis; but she did not do it but once before a policeman stepped up and compelled her to leave the street. The poorer classes seemed to enjoy the sight of Union troops, with a zeal that those who are differently situated can scarcely appreciate.  But the most amusing feature, which is not without its moral, was the broad grinner complacency with which the negroes viewed our transit. Tired and worn, we reached Washington and slept upon the floor of the second story of an old business house, each company occupying a separate room.  I considered myself more fortunate than my neighbors, in procuring a table to sleep upon.  My baggage not having arrived, one of the boys kindly offered me his blanket, insisting that his overcoat was all he needed, and so rolling myself in my blanket upon my novel bedstead, I soon forgot Philadelphia ladies, Baltimore riots and Washington accommodations for soldiers, and knew no more until the day was breaking.

That day we went into camp in the outskirts of the city, where we remained four or five days, and then we were ordered over the river into camp in rear of Fort Corcoran. There we remained two days and then took up our line of march towards the enemy's pickets, and came to our present encampment, where we expect to remain for a week or two.

Our present position is in sight of Hall's House, which it will be remembered was burned by the rebels about ten days ago. We are also near Munson's Hill, from which they were driven last Saturday night.

Our boys all enjoy camp life very much, and they have some jolly times I can tell you.  The most tedious duties are standing guard, our Colonel being very strict in this particular, more so than many encampments near here.  We are almost the only camp that keeps a guard around its own Regiment.  Commanders seem to be somewhat loose in this particular, thinking, I suppose, that it is useless to keep a strong guard around a camp that is in no apparent danger.  This is a great mistake, as troops can never do guard duty efficiently until they have had experience, which can only be safely obtained by constant vigilance when there is no apparent danger.  The teachings of this war prove that some of the most serious accidents have occurred by ignorant sentinels not doing duties which they had never learned.  But the present indications are that ours will soon become a model corps in this particular, as well as in many others.

Yesterday we were assigned to the third Brigade of Gen. Porter's Division. This morning our new Brigadier General, Daniel Butterfield, took up his headquarters with our Regiment, where he will at present remain.  His appointment is of recent date, though his experience is said to be considerable as Col. of one of the first New York Regiments.  We are now within two miles of our old friends, the brave boys of the 27th, who so nobly did their duty upon the fatal field of Bull's Run. We have none of us yet been to see them, nor have they visited us.  Our rules are so strict that we cannot get out, and I presume that they do not know that we are so near.  The prospect of an immediate fight is not very good, and some begin to complain of the delay. The effects of war are plainly discernable there in the ravaged field, the trodden corn, the vacant house, and the desolate plantation. The people of the north may faintly realize the horrors of war, and perhaps feel, to a limited extent, the deplorable condition of a community filled with armed men, but they must see to understand fully what it is to be near a great army.  Often in the night, a farm, with its entire paraphernalia is converted into a huge camp, the fences are piled up by the kitchen fires, the old landmarks are removed to make room for tents and carrals, the fields are covered with white tents, pitched regularly along newly graded streets, ditches and sinks have been digged, and what was an ordinary plantation a few hours before, has become the busy, bustling home of thousands of men, whose glittering arms flash in the light of the rising sun, reminding one of some fairy tale, until he almost imagines that the wonderful lamp of Aladdin has been found, and that the days of the Geull have returned.  But this is all reality.  And now the stirring reveille rouses thousand of armed men from their tents and in an instant the streets are filled with life, and the duties of the day commence.  Some companies go out on "picket guard," others upon camp guard, and still others as working parties and to drill. Every man is armed ready for an instant fight, with two days rations in his haversack, ready to march at a moments notice.  Those who knew this country a few months ago would not now recognize it as the "peaceful Old Dominion" of historic recollections.  But facts are facts.  This rebellion has produced the change, which will last until treason is crushed and peace once more restored.

O.E Hine.

Vital Records - September 1856

 Oxford Times, September 3, 1856

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult., by Rev. H. Callahan, Mr. Leonard Read to Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Mary Ann Torry of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on 27th ult., by Rev. H. Callahan, Mr. Egbert Babcock of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Laura Ann Stanley of Preston.  

Oxford Times, September 10, 1856

Married:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst. by Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. Joseph Pike of Colesville [Broome Co., NY] to Miss Clarinda M. Lyon of West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango American, Greene, NY, September 11, 1856

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst., by Rev. J. Abercrombie, Mr. Daniel B. Bullock to Delta, Oneida Co., to Miss Helen L. Chapel, of Norwich.

Married:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst. at the house of Daniel Dodge, by Rev. A. Queal, Mr. Thomas E. Anthony to Miss Sarah J. Dodge, both of the above place.

Married:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst. at the residence of the bride's father, by Rev. J.A. Davis, Mr. George B. Throop, to Miss Martha Crumb, both of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  Drowned, in the canal, in this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., Horace [Fredenburgh], son of John and Adaline Fredenburgh, aged 8 years, 10 months and 21 days.

When the sun rises in splendor, who may tell if the day shall be light, who knoweth the lurking places of the clouds which in a brief hour may obscure the sky?  If the plant bad, who can tell if it shall blossom?  Who can read in the eyes of a child if he shall tread the dubious pathway of life up to manhood, or if in a few short years a little delay sown turf shall be all that is left "of the little boy that died!"

To watch for death by the bedside of a sick child, to hold its little hand in yours, to listen to its words, to perform tenderly for it the last sad offices, when expectation of death has partially blinded the pang, is agonizing to a parent's heart.  But how much more deplorable the event when unlooked for, unforeseen, when the beloved child, in full health, is suddenly called away, as in the case of our friends who have been called to mourn the loss of their child.

The deceased, though a child, possessed many of the qualities which are common to some of more mature years. General and obliging to his companions, kind and affectionate to his parents, he was a favorite with all.  Little did he think as he repaired to his boat, on the morning which he was drowned, that a ride in it would occasion his death, and so soon!  But such is life, in the midst of which we are in death.

"Little Horace," will be missed by his associates.  They will remember their little companion for many a day.  Often will tears steal to their eyes as they think of his sad fate; but chiefly will the sorrow for his loss fall upon his parents' hearts.  It is a loneliness which makes the heart ache, to miss the dear little child whose presence shall cheer the home no more.  Yet it is an everyday grief.  He who has said "Suffer little children to come unto me," is daily gathering them home to  his arms.  Then weep not and [--portion unreadable--] but how richly fraught with varied incidents which if brought to mind, will be as bright and shining lights to guide the brother and sisters he left.  No more will he be seen on earth, but he is with immortal spirits in that land where sin and death so common to our world can never enter.

How peaceful, how sweet, and how soothing the thought, / To the stricken and mourning, whose minds are full fraught, / With memories of loved ones, who here could not stay, /That in bright worlds above they're with Jesus alway.

Died:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult., Mrs. Louis Hinman, aged 75 years.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult., Mrs. Sarah Fuller, aged 73 years.

Died:  in Willet [Cortland Co., NY], on the 8th inst., Mrs. Abigail Pember(?) aged 64 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., very suddenly in child birth, Ruth K. [Baker],  wife of Dr Andrew Baker, in the 43d year of her age.

Oxford Times, September 17, 1856

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th, by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. DeForest Johnson of West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Ednah J. Barthlomew, of Oxford.

Married:  In Canajoharie [Montgomery Co. NY], Sept. 8th, by the Rev. S. Comfort, Mr. Peleg Ashcraft of Preston [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Mary D. Tillotson of the former place.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY] on the 12tyh inst., Mr. James Purdy, aged 65 years.

Mr. John Jacox of South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], a young man about 22 years of age, was found dead Saturday afternoon in a Buzz Saw Machine Shop in that village, in which he had been employed as a workman.  The balance wheel was found to be broken and, it is supposed the deceased had in some manner received a fatal blow from some part of the deranged machinery.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, September 18, 1856

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., by Rev. E.D. Thurston, Mr. Hiram P Hovey of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Susan C. Gordon, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  At Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY], on the 13th inst., Mr. Horace D. Hibbard to Miss Eunice Hazard, both of Willet, Cortland Co. [NY].

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst., Mrs. Phebe Kendall, aged 64 years.

Oxford Times, September 24, 1856

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., by the Rev. H. Gee, Mr. Israel Burroughs to Miss Lucy C. Warner.

Married:  Also, by the same, Mr. David Sherwood to Miss Rosannah Warner, all of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

"There is a reaper whose name is Death, / And with his sickle keen, / He eats the bearded grain with a breath, / And the flowers that grow between."

Died:  In Buffalo [NY], on Tuesday morning, Sept. 16th, on his homeward journey from the West, Mr. Elias Bolles, aged 72 years.  Mr. Bolles was born in Middle Haddam, Conn., in Jan. 1784, but for many years has been a resident of this State, and for 25 years a much esteemed citizen of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].  The religion he revered was the rule of his daily life, his word was ample security for anything with those who knew him, and his promises were sacred and inviolate.  He leaves to his family that most precious legacy, a name sustained to continuously an example of spotless integrity and honor; while the best and truest memorial love could desire.  "An honest man, the noblest work of God."

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 4th, Mr. Ira Bradley, aged 69 years.

Chenango American, September 25, 1856

Married:  In Clarkville, Madison Co., [NY], Sept. 11th, by Rev. J. Clark, Mr. E. Philo of Half Moon, Saratoga Co., N.Y. to Miss Cordelia S. Clark, of the former place.

Died:  In Willet [Cortland Co., NY], on the 14th inst., Mr. Silas Courtney, aged 50 years.

Died:  In the village of Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst., at the residence of her son-in-law, C.A. Stevens, Mrs. Sarah Gurnsey, relict of Samuel Gurnsey of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], deceased, aged 81 years.

In the decease of this estimable lady, noticed in the obituary department of last week, something more would seem to be due than the slight reference therein given.  She had attained to advanced age and was one of the earliest pioneer settlers of this valley. As the writer of this sketch stood by the grave in which her mortal remains were to be deposited, a friend stood near him, whose memory of the deceased ran back through a period of over fifty years.  He spoke warmly of her noble qualities of character, which shone out even to the last of her mortal existence. Through a very long portion of the closing years of her life, she had been a sufferer through pains and infirmities of body, but her intellect retained its clearness unbroken to the last.  She bore with meekness the chastening hand of God, but longed to depart to her home in Heaven.  Deep was the interest she felt and manifested in her spiritual welfare.  In her case age had not blunted those religious feelings and affections which look to Christ and the hopes that centre in his cross.  Many and marked were the changes in social life, as well as in the aspect of the natural world in the progress of cultivation, which she had witnessed. She had seen most of those whom in this early home she had known as neighbors and friends pass away before her.  And the time had come to her, long before her departure, that she had realized the force of the language of the Psalmist, "though men be so strong that they come to fourscore years, yet is their strength then but labor and sorrow."  Her spirit passed gently away beneath the roof of a kind and devoted daughter where every attention had been bestowed upon her that filial love could suggest, "The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it is found in the way of righteousness."

Civil War Letters - Rev. L. Mersereau & J.C. Mersereau - September 1861

 Union News, Broome County, New York, October 17, 1861

We have been requested to publish the following correspondence, between Rev. L. Mersereau, of Brooklyn, N.Y., to his brother John C. Merserreau who is in the Army in Va., on presenting the latter with a Bible and his reply to it.  Ed. News

My Dear Brother:  As you have taken your sword in hand and have already started for the field of action, allow me one word of encouragement.

Never did man unsheath the sword in holier cause.  The war of the Revolution was a glorious and meritorious conflict, a holy undertaking of our Fathers, and most nobly conducted to its triumphant consummation.  Noble hearts of noble men were they, who fought and gained our cause then. Yes, dear brother, the days of Washington were great and responsible days, the c...ms of the country were riveted upon him.  He felt and confessed the mighty load.  Unborn interests of unborn millions hung on the result of those days, and that result, purchased by the blood of our Fathers, constituted a home for the free, an asylum for the oppressed of all nations and tongues, aye, a home for free institutions.

Under these free institutions, the thirteen original states have [grown] populous and rich--rich beyond comparison.  State after State has been added to the thirteen, until they are almost tripled, each State assisting and assisted by the other, each being cherished by all and all sustaining a grand, unique natural whole, the like of which was enjoyed by mankind.  Yet Rebellion "Mirable dictu," has presumed to raise its hideous head, in the tale of national prosperity, with States each grown rich with State privileges superior to any ever before enjoyed by man, with a national name above every name. For what nation or people did not revel in the [benefits] of our national power.  When had the Stars and Stripes waved in vain?  In what country on the Globe was an American citizen not protected?  Are those days to be bygones?  Is that emblem to cease its power?  Unhallowed is the hand uplifted against it!  Filled with hellish strife is the heart that wishes to see it tarnished!  If ever rebellion was wicked, then that which is now raging to overthrow the power of the Stars and Stripes is the one.  That rebellion shall be crushed, its leaders must be ground to powder, the whole is a monstrosity, and the whole shall be bled and washed out. The Stripes shall remain blazing in the breeze. The Stars shall continue to bespangle our firmament of free institutions.  They united shall continue to wave in triumph over our land from the Lakes to the gulf, from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and our children and children's children shall yet bask under the protecting light of the Stripes and point of the Stars.  O wave on Stars and Stripes, declare thy diction Stars and Strips, and palsied be the hand.

for the preservation of that flag, you have backed on your sword.  May God allow you to see the end of this rebellion.  If, on the contrary, the blood which courses in your veins must be shed in achieving this object, then feel that the cause is just.  Feel that you are called of God to battle for his race, and say, if it be heaven's will, I cheerfully bow.  The sacrifice shall be ready at the appointed time.  My brother with spirit:  Christ is with thee.

Cherishing such sentiments, I know that you will accept this Bible.  I present this Bible to you.  You are now a soldier. This Bible is the true soldier's companion.  It is his Rock, his Refuge.  It is a battery that the enemy cannot take.  It is your hope in the sunshine and in the storm, in life and in death, it never has failed them that trusted in it.  Its pages have been purchased by the blood of God's only son. A book which has never failed to afford solace to the Martyr whose authenticated pages has been oft times moistened by our mother's tears, a Book which breathes life in the midst of death!  For this Bible came the Pilgrim Fathers' to this country, from a home of denied Bibles to a home of Bibles free.  Will you take this book as the great Washington did.  He made it his heart's companion.  He took it as the choice of life, the trust in death, the hope of better worlds, let me deposit in thine own hand.

I have said the days of Washington were great days.  The cause of our Fathers in the Revolution was a holy cause, yet they fought and bled for prospective.  They possessed not the fruit, only the small seed, the blossoms.  It remains for us to live under the tree which they planted, whose blossoms they saw, but whose rich and delicious fruit we have eaten.  They planted the corn which we have harvested.  They trod the fields in their wild condition.  We have them in their best cultivated state. they fought and bled for the privilege of experiment, we for an inheritance, a demonstrated, blood bought, and long possessed inheritance.  Had they failed, there would have been a delay of great blessing, our cause failing, then the liberties of this Continent are crushed, and the promise of our world rolled back for ages, the hopes of philanthropists are blotted out, and the unwelcome truth, the motto of selfish beings and despots, must be admitted "that man in incapable of self-government."  But this is a libel on the words of God; it never will be true, it never shall be admitted.  The hopes of philanthropists are the inspirations of God and shall not be blotted out, but shall be read in beautiful lines over this continent. The promise of the world shall not go back, the liberties of this Continent are not to be crushed, but greatly enlarged.  I feel that our cause is in the hands of God.  In his hands the true soldier is safe.  Go forth then, armed with the whole armor of God. Take this Bible and with it heaven's best protection. Take it and with it a brother's most ardent prayers.  Take this book and with it remember a mother's dying request.  Take this Bible and with it receive God's richest boon to man, to yourself.

Your brother, L. Mersereau.

___________________________________________________________

Headquarters 43d Reg., Co. H, N.Y.SV., Camp Hancock, Oct. 4, 1861

My Dear Brother:  I shall ever remember your kindness to me, especially in this last but most delightful remembrancer.

This beautiful Bible is indicative to me of what is truly great and good, and especially, at this very opportune time, do I esteem it.

In it, the gift of his Son sought the good of the human race. When Christ shed his blood for man, he did it to make man better.

The Bible inculcates the doctrine of human progress, man's destiny seems to be onward and upward. I feel with you, that in drawing my sword, it is done for preservation of divine privileges.

We fight for human prosperity. We feel that our Government is the best ever devised by man, hence we strive to maintain it.  Who can read the Holy Bible, and not find his heart inspired with sentiments of interest in behalf of freedom and free institutions.

I have drawn my sword for my country, my whole country, and nothing short of my country.  I go forth not to devastate, but to defend, not to tear down, but to build up.

We seek to save our country and nothing more.  I love the Stars and Stripes, and I hope to see them wave over thirty-four States still.

Willingly have I drawn my sword, and willingly will I sheath it, when the last foe of our glorious country has laid down his weapon of hostility, and has taken the oath the allegiance to the home of the free.

But as I am now a soldier and not a public speaker like yourself, you will please accent these few words in acknowledgement of my many obligations to you, and remember me.

Your brother, J.C. Mersereau, Co. H, 43d Reg. N.Y.S.V.

Vital Records - August 1856

 Oxford Times, August 6, 1856

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., by Rev. J.G. Bartholomew, Mr. David A. Brown to Miss Maggie McGuire, all of Oxford.

Died:  In Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., Mr. Garret E. Cornell, aged 33 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, August 7, 1856

Married:  In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., by Geo. W. Edwards, Esq., Mr. William J. Cozier of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Lucy L. Payson, of Lebanon, Madison Co.

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Mrs. Catharine Preston, aged 44 years.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th ult. of heart disease, Mrs. Frances Ann [Hill], widow of John F. Hill, aged 52 years.

Died:  In Fentonville, Michigan, on the 10th ult., Hon. James Birdsall, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], aged 73 years.

Oxford Times, August 13, 1856

We were shocked this morning with intelligence of the death of Mrs. Sophia M. Wilcox, the wife of our fellow citizen, Mr. Eli H. Wilcox.  Mrs. W. was yesterday in usual health and had been out, calling in the afternoon and evening, and making some arrangements for a social visit today.  From over exertion, she was attacked with a nervous headache and toothache, complaints not uncommon with her.  She retired between 9 and 10 P.M. with her husband and her infant child, about ten months old, which slept in the bed with them.  Near midnight, her younger sister heard the cries of the babe and upon listening and hearing no voice form the mother to hush its wailing, came down stairs to learn the cause.  She found Mrs. W. in a stupor from which no effort could awaken her.  Mr. Wilcox instantly summoned medical aid, but without avail.  She lingered until 3 o'clock this morning, when she breathed her last.  Mrs. W. had been for some time in the habit of occasionally taking morphine powders to allay nervous pains and restlessness and of administering them herself.  On the present occasion, she undoubtedly rose after retiring to see relief in the customary opiate, and by unconsciously taking an overdose, was suddenly removed from this world.  May the mournful result of her imprudence warn the multitudes who indulge in the use of this powerful narcotic from ever touching or tasting it without competent medical advice.  The deceased was a woman of many engaging and lovable qualities which endeared her to a numerous circle of relatives and friends who will long deplore her melancholy fate.  Her age was 30.  Norwich Reporter.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, August 14, 1856

Married:  In West Burlington [Otsego Co., NY], on the 27th ult. by J.W. Richardson, Esq., Mr. Peter Hecox, of Marshall, Oneida Co., and Mary Reynolds of Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY].

Died:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on the 9th inst. of consumption, James Squires, aged 40 years.

Died:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., Mrs. Margaret A. [Thompson], wife of James W. Thompson, aged 28 years.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., of consumption, Mrs. Mary J. [Matthewson], wife of Charles Matthewson, aged 20 years.

Oxford Times, August 20, 1856

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst., by the Rev. H. Geo, Mr. Hiram Howland to Miss Mary Ann Daniels of Oxford.

Died:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst. Mrs. Ruhamah Birge, at the advanced age of 97.  This venerable mother was born in Colchester, Conn. Oct 15, 1759, and consequently was familiar with the scenes of the American Revolution, and since the decease of her husband about 18 years ago, has received a pension for his services in that great conflict.  Soon after its termination they moved into the town of Franklin, Del. Co. N.Y.  There amid the privations incident to the settlement of a new country by the peaceful toils of agriculture, they reared their family in the habits of industry and virtue.  Advancing in age about 20 years ago they moved into Coventry, and occupied a small tenement built by Mr. M.B. Smith, her son-in-law, and close to his own residence.  Her husband dying about two years after, she has ever since continued to occupy this endeared abode and there breathed her last.  the deceased was a remarkable person of extraordinary endowments and achievements.  She was possessed of great independence of spirit of wonderful energy of singular vivacity and the most amiable social qualities. Accustomed to laborious pursuits she could not relinquish them even in old age.  She continued to card, spin and weave her hundred yards a year, till she was 90 years of age, an achievement which it is presumed has not its parallel in our country, if in the world.  Although the deceased never made a public profession of religion, she afforded decisive evidence of christen character and attainment.  Her trust in the redeemer was cordial and constant, her faith was evinced by her works. She said it was her prayer that she might not outlive her usefulness, and that she might die as her sainted mother had died before her, closing her own eyes  Her request in these respects was granted.  She retained her reason and breathed a fragrance of piety to the last, and as she sunk into her long slumber, put forth her hand closing her own eyes.  Just as the orb of day was rising above the horizon, her emancipated spirit ascended to the invisible glory.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, August 21, 1856

Married:  In New Haven, Conn., on the 31st ult., by Rev. J. Churchill, Mr. William D. Badger, formerly of this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], to Mrs. Alma B. Clark, of Waterbury, Conn.

Married:  At Augusta, Oneida Co [NY] on the 14th inst. by Rev. P. Fields, Mr Wm. A. Martin, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Eliza A. Barker, of the former place.

Died::  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., Mrs. Betsey Smith, wife of Nathan Smith, aged 71 years.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst., Mary J. [Packard], infant daughter of Charles and H.A. Packard, aged 1 year and 4 months.

Oxford Times, August 27, 1856

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th ins.t, Mr. Thomas G. Nichols, aged 50 years.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 20th inst., Frederick C. [Decker] son of W.D> and D.E. Decker.

Civil War Letter - from Alexandria VA, October 1861

 Union News, Broome Co., NY, October 10, 1861

Camp Dickinson, Near Fort Lyon, Alexandria, Va., Oct. 1st, '61

Friend B.:  There is more than usual activity today among the troops in this section.  Day before yesterday, a portion of this division made an advance and the rebels retired as they approached, and now the lads are in possession of Fairfax again, and the troops are moving on by thousands.  The (supposed to be) strong fortifications of the rebels at Munson's Hill, turned out to be slight earth works thrown up with some logs, and stove pipe mounted to resemble sixty-four's and rifle cannon.  They painted them up in style, and on the whole they were very good likenesses.  But 'tis a pretty good sell, I fancy, on some of our knowing ones. Well, everything is clear to Fairfax, and the "secesh" think (I suppose by falling back into their strong hold) to draw us into their trap again, and have the Bull Run tragedy played over a second time.

Well, I'm satisfied with the arrangement, as I'd like to assist to whip them on the same ground, as we all know is better now.  Troops are arriving daily, and everything points to some important move soon, but of course, I can't tell when. There has been (in the neighborhood of) twenty Regiments passing today. We are getting along as well as could be expected with the Fort, which has been called Fort Lyon after the heroic general, who has sacrificed both life and fortune in the defense of the Union.

One of our recruits had the misfortune to shoot a rebel scout, near Dr. Mason's last night.  He informed us that the rebel scout snapped his gun at him and it missed fired, giving him time to try his piece, which succeeded in bringing down Mr. "Secesh," although it was not a mortal wound he received.

I hear today that Stewart's Engineer Regiment from Elmira, that contains the Maine boys, is in Camp at Meridian Hill, about three miles north of Washington.  My informant said they were all in good spirits. We can't get any of any kind here at present, however, the general health of the Regiment is good.  Hib has been to Alexandria today, having a dozen or two photographs taken, so I suppose you will have one to hang up in our sanctum soon.   No more, as 'tis time for roll call.

Yours as ever, Blockhead.

Vital Records - July 2, 1856

 Oxford Times, July 2, 1856

Married:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Charles Eccleston to McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Rebecca Taylor of Preston.  

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult., Mrs. Julia Ann Randall, aged 66 years.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult., Dolphus [Randall], son of Thos. and Julia Randall, aged 4 years.

Died:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult. Mrs. Sally Keeler, aged 56 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 3, 1856

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th, ult., Stephen H. [Main], son of Aaron Main, aged 20 years.

Died:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d ult. Mrs. Sylvia [Harris], widow of the late John Harris, aged 60 years.

Oxford Times, July 9, 1856

Married:  At Honesdale, Pa. on Thursday evening, June 25th, by Rev. R. B. Deane, Mr. Gerrit H. Perkins of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Fannie Willcox of the former place.

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] on the 3d inst., by Rev. L. Wright, Mr. Otis Henry to Miss Melissa A. Levee, both of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  Also on the 4th, by the same, Mr. Joseph Ferrenbacker(?) of Norwich to Miss Katharina Eucster,(?) of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst. by Rev. G.L. Foote, Doct. James B. Marquis, of Norwich to Miss Delia A. [Haxton], daughter of Andrew Haxton Esq., of the former place. 

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY],  on the 1st inst., Miss Anna Walker, aged 81 years.

Died:  in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 5th inst., Mrs. Susannah Youngs, aged 65 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 10, 1856

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst. by Rev. S.U. Ferguson, Mr. John L. Dalrymple to Miss Amanda M. Coy, of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], on the 4th inst., Lydia Ann [Grant], daughter of Francis and Lydia Grant, aged 2 years and 10 months.

Oxford Times, July 16, 1856

Died:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th of June, Susan [Eccleston], wife of Mr. David Eccleston, aged 57 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 17, 1856

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY] on the 12th inst., Miss Maria Birdsall, daughter of Horace Birdsall, aged -?- years.

Died:  At Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY], on the 13th inst., Mr. William Comstock, aged 50 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] on the 9th inst., after a lingering illness of consumption, James M.D. Carr, Esq., in the 55th year of his age.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] on the 13th inst., of consumption, Mrs. Nancy I. [Spencer], wife of Reuben Spencer, and daughter of Peter Bartle, aged 25 years.

Died:  In Delhi [Delaware Co., NY], on the 3d inst., Mr. Fransis(?)  Beardsley, aged 37 years.

Oxford Times, July 23, 1856

A young man named Patrick Riley, a Irishman, in the employ of LeRoy Shattuck three miles south of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], was killed yesterday by falling from a load of hay to the ground and breaking his neck.  He was standing on the top of the load, when, by the sudden starting of the team, he lost his balance and was precipitated to the ground, and striking upon his head, was killed instantly.  Norwich Rep.

Married:  At Painted Post, Steuben Co. [NY], by George Balcom, Evangelist, Mr. Y.S. Jones to Miss Lana Park(?).

Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 23, 1856

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th by Rev. S.U. Furguson, Mr. E.D. Steel, Esq., of Rochester, N.Y. to Miss Cyrena W. Pollock of Sherburne.

Married:  In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., by rev. W.B. Morey, Mr. Ezra Messenger(?) of Otselic to Miss Harriet M. Newton of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  At Chillicothe, Illinois, on the 26th ult., by Rev. W.M. Haight, Mr. David B. McMaster, formerly of South Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Jane E. Wilmot, formerly of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the morning of the 23d inst., Mrs. Polly Spafford.

Died:  In Keeler, Michigan, on the 10th inst., Andrew Baker, father of Dr. Andrew Baker of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], in the 78th year of his age.

Oxford Times, July 30, 1856

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult, by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. John Wheeler of Garrettsville, Otsego Co [NY] to Miss Julia A Norris of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d int., Delilia [Jones], wife of Mr. Richard Jones, aged 55 years.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], on the 22d inst., James F.R. Godfrey, aged 20 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 31, 1856

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst. by H.G. Prindle Esq., Mr. John McLean, to Miss Adaline Scott, both of Preston [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  At the residence of the bride's father, Clinton, Iowa, on the 16th inst., by Rev. G.W.  Beers, E. Romaine Clark of Utica [Oneida Co., NY], and Miss Annis M. Cole, of the former place.

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th inst., John Allen, aged 75 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., Albert L. [Sherwood], son of David and Susan Sherwood, aged 3 years, 5 months and 14 days.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th inst., at the residence of her father, Mrs. Mary Garen, daughter of Nataniel Brooks, aged 30 years.

Civil War Letter - September 1861

 Union News, Broome County, New York, October 10, 1861

Camp Dickinson, Near Alexandra, Va., Sept. 26, '61

Friend Benedict:  It has been some time since I have written to you, for reasons already stated, and although pressed for time, I'll drop you a few lines.  Hibbie, I suppose, has covered the ground (far as news is concerned) that I have lost, and I'll begin with today.  At the present time, I find myself one of a company of twenty men, stationed about four miles from camp, on the Richmond road as picket, and I have taken my position on a pile of rails, with my overcoat as cushion to my sofa, and a sack of oats (belonging to the cavalry pickets) for a writing desk, scratching a few lines to you. The cavalry scouting party of eight men have just come in, and report a skirmish about three miles from here on the Fairfax road. As they were riding leisurely along, they met a man and inquired if there were any rebel pickets in the neighborhood.  He told them there were none within four miles. But our boys had not gone 200 rods, when turning a corner in the road, they came suddenly upon ten of them, not more than eight rods in advance, that fired a volley upon our lads, who threw themselves from their horses and thus avoided their fire, which they immediately returned with better effect. Our boys were armed with Sharp's Carbines, the ugliest little things to throw a ball I ever saw.  Three of the rebels were killed and two wounded.  Our lads immediately mounted and fell back, as the rebels had retired into the thick pine woods or rather brush, that the sacred sod of Virginia produces so much of.  They also report an advance of a Brigade of the rebels in that direction.  Our Brigade has had an accession to its numbers of another company of Cavalry, 100 strong, and another Artillery company of 160 men and six pieces of cannon is expected soon.

The work on our new Fort goes on with rather more energy than usual. The whole Brigade, with the exception of four companies for picket guard, being employed on the work.  Today there is nothing doing, as the Brigade (with the exception of four companies, and I happen to belong to one of the four, for pickets) is observing the day appointed for thanksgiving and prayer, in different ways, a good share, I believe, in getting moderately sober.

Yesterday, Gen. McClellan and staff, accompanied by a young Russian Prince (the name is a jaw breaker. I'll not try to write it) visited the different camps and works.  As they rode through the Fort all the diggers left the ditches, and climbing upon the half-finished parapet, gave them an enthusiastic cheering.  The Prince and Gen. McClellan uncovered their heads while in the presence of their august slaves.  The Fort is no ordinary affair, as the walls enclose an irregular area of seventeen acres, and 'tis expected to mount one hundred and twenty-five guns of the larger size, 64 pounders, and 'twill stand unrivalled in strength on the West side of the Potomac.

Our boys are unpaid as yet and I hear some murmuring, but as a general thing, all the past insubordinates of the army are at present tractable, owing, I suppose, to the fact of the Tract Society's having distributed some seventeen million of religious brochures among them.  I think 'tis well they should save their strength for a common enemy.  Don't you?  Well, I've got to go to Col. Mason's a half mile from here.

Well, I am here at the Colonel's and after taking a look at the sun dial in the front yard, which said it was four o'clock, I have anchored myself on one of the seats in the veranda, and am ready to commence again. The Colonel's mansion is situated upon a rise of ground, that commands the most beautiful landscape (without exception) I ever beheld.  The valley to the southeast, containing the estates of the different members of the Mason family, is unparalleled in beauty. Stretched away to the distance of nine miles, is seen the waters of the Potomac, with its surface dotted incessantly with various crafts, which are more numerous than ever at the present active time.  The Mount Vernon estate is in sight, but too far to distinguish, with the naked eye, anything.  Col. Mason is now in the Rebel army, and has been in the habit of coming home to visit his wife previous to our stationing a picket at his house.  There is a guard, one dozen strong, kept there now continually, in hopes to capture him on some of his visits home.  Rather a mean way of doing business, I think.  If I was so lucky as to get a wife, I should want to see her occasionally, I conclude. The Colonel's Mansion House was built in 1843 and is now in complete repairs, and everything looks and speaks of good management.  His wife is at home, about 35 years of age, and a very interesting woman.  She has three young ladies from Alexandria staying with her, and an elderly lady, her mother perhaps, that makes up the whites.  Blacks are numerous, of different gender, age and color, around the negro quarters, I must leave again.

Sept. 27th:  I did not have time to finish yesterday.  When I got back to the picket station, Hibbie had been taken sick and gone back to camp. Today he is better again.  It rained nearly all night, and we were not relieved until past twelve o'clock.  No adventures to chronicle.  The 27th is known out around, and has never been attacked on pickets, while the 26th and 16th N.Y.V. and 5th Maine, have some one shot every few days.  It has got out around among the rebels, that the 27th are perfect demons to fight, and they are very careful not to molest us with anything like equal numbers.  Night before last, the 16th's pickets were drove in on the same road we were stationed last night.  Nothing occurred, however, except one of the cavalry horse got tangled up and had to be cut loose.

Well, I've concluded to let it rain, as 'tis pouring down like suds, and as the sheet is full, I may as well close, and subscribe myself,    Blockhead.

Vital Records - June 1856

 Oxford Times, June 4, 1856

Married:  In Quincy, Mich., on the 10th ult. Elijah Youlin, of Coldwater, Mich. (Formerly of Greene [Chenango Co., NY]), to Miss Phebe Crosby, of the former place.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult., Mr. Hiram Bebee, aged 33 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 5, 1856

Married: In South Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult. by Rev. E.G. Bartholomew, J.B. Church to Miss Sophia P. Landers, both of Bainbridge.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d ult. K[-?-] Hartson, Jr. in the 42d year of his age.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th ult., Mrs. Lucinda [Weatherby], wife of Milton Weatherby, aged 32 years.

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th ult., of disease of the heart, Frank S. [Wetmore], son of Augustus C. and Mellasa Wetmore, aged 11 years.

Died:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], on the 12th ult., Mrs. Esther [Hawley], wife of Stephen S. Hawley, aged 26 years.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult., Mr. Hiram Bisbee, aged 33 years.

Oxford Times, June 11, 18565

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., by the Rev. J.G. Bartholomew, Mr. John H. Smith of Oxford to Miss E. Augusta Felter, of the same place.

Died:  In Oxford, on the 8th inst., Mr. Levi Eggleston, aged 53 years.  The wing of the dark Angel has again o'er shadowed a happy home, and a beloved husband, a fond father, a kind neighbor, and cherished friend, has gone from among us.  The bereavement is to his family of a peculiarly trying nature, but even in this hour of anguish, the faith which he cherished in life, and which guided and supported him through the valley and shadow of death consoles them also.  The sick and sorrowing will miss one whose generous heart would promote more than his willing hand could do, but the God of the widow and the fatherless, can alone support the wife and children, and to that source of consoling love we commend them.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 12, 1856

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 31st ult. by Rev. W.G. Queal, Mr. Harvey Holmes to Mrs. Mary P. Brigham, both of Brookfield, Madison Co. [NY].

Married:  Also, at the same place, by the same, on the 4th inst., Mr. Henry F. Sherman to Miss Celinda A. Adams, both of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY]. 

Died:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst., Mrs. Desire [Babcock], widow of Luke Babcock, aged 84 years. 

\Oxford Times, June 18, 1856

Married:  In Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], on the 11th, by Rev. Mr. Norton, Mr. George L. Humphrey of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Matilda Osborne, of the former place.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., Nathaniel, [Ensworth] Jr., son of Nathaniel and Lydia A. Ensworth, aged 20 years.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., Mr. Daniel A. Rexford, aged 43 years.

Sad Accident:  We are pained to learn of a sad disaster which occurred in this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY] on Thursday morning.  As Mr. Derrick Hollenbeck was crossing the river bridge, near Tillotson's Mills, with a span of horses and a buggy, a portion of the bridge gave way, precipitating him, the horses and the buggy into deep water.  Aid was immediately rendered, but before the unfortunate man could be rescued, he was dead.  he had received a blow in the stomach, while falling, which rendered fruitless any medical aid. the horses were also drowned.  He was 37 years old, a widower, and leaves three young children to mourn his untimely end.  Chenango American.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 19, 1856

Married:  In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th inst., by the Rev. J.D. Webster, Dr. R.B. Prindle to Miss Lib Amelia Marcy, both of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., by Rev. E.L. Benedict, Eneas Fenton, to Miss Nancy Hakes, both of the above place.

Married:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst. by Rev. J. Crandall, Phineas Crumb, of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Sarah T. Aldrich, of the former place.

Married:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on the 8th inst., by the Rev. S.M. Stimson, Mr. A. DeWitt to Miss Orice Miller, both of the above place.

Died:  in Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY], on the 17th inst., Miss Julia E. Waters, aged 17 years.

Died:  In Marshall, Michigan, on the 7th inst., Peter G. Betts, Esq., formerly of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], in the 51st year of his age.

Oxford Times, June 25, 1856

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., Stephen Henry Main, son of Aaron Main, aged 20 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 26, 1856

Married:  In Prospect [Oneida Co., NY], on the 6th inst., by Rev. S. Bullock, Mr. Charles L. Saxe, of South Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Kate M. Bullock, of the former place.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst., by Rev. S.U. Ferguson, Dr. William Oakes, of Chittenango, Madison Co., [NY] to Miss Caroline A. Rees, of the former place.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 20th inst., Thomas Lee, aged 78 years.

Died:  In Triangle [Broome Co., NY], on the 22d inst., Philetus [Vanderwaken], son of Cornelius Vanderwaken, aged 14 years.

Died:  In Chenango [Broome Co., NY], on the 23d inst., Polly E. [Montross], wife of Lockwood Montross, aged 47 years.  

Civil War Letters from William C. Pollard - October 1861

 Union News, Broome Co., NY, October 10, 1861

Camp Lesley, Sept. 27th, 1861

Dear News:  I promised to write and let you know where we are, and will commence by saying, that we are at Washington, D.C.  We arrived here on Sunday last, after a pleasant ride from Elmira via New York city, thence to Philadelphia, thence to the much feared city of Baltimore, the citizens of the latter place were very quiet.  We have no daring adventures to relate there.  The citizens gathered around us in large numbers, but kept still.  The ladies saluted us with their handkerchiefs, but not so warmly as in Philadelphia, for there we had a fine supper which the kind people of the city furnished us, and we did ample justice to it. We arrived in the city about 12 o'clock p.m., and they had fed four full regiments that night before us, and expected two more.

The Railroad from Baltimore to Washington is well guarded by Indiana troops--a fine looking lot of boys, with good uniforms and arms--at the Reley house.  There is quite a camp situated on a high hill beside the Railroad and they have a view of the country far around.

We are encamped 2-1/2 miles from Washington on the side of a little hill, and it is a very pleasant spot, and we have a fine view of the country around us from our camp.  We can see 100,000 men and horses and hundreds of full bands of music.  There is quite a body of troops moving across the river and we expect to go everyday.  The country here is healthy and water good and plenty of it.  Our boys are well pleased with their mode of living. We have the best Quarter master in Washington and have all we can eat and more too.  We see from the sale of rations that we cannot consume less than $25 per week in our company. I have the charge of the cooking in camp E, and by the way, we have got three good cooks.  There is in our Company forty-six men from Maine [Broome Co., NY] and some from Union [Broome Co., NY].  Most of the Union Men are in Capt. Patten's Company, Com I.

It would please you to see Elijah Cafferty and Norm Brigham driving their teams of four horses each before a large Government wagon, and riding the near-side-wheel horse and driving with one line.  Elijah Cafferty is quite sick this morning, but I guess he will be well again in a few days. The boys generally are healthy.  We have not lost but one man from the Regiment yet, and he shot himself in the head in New York city by carelessness and died of the wound. We learn that James McGregor is getting well and will join us in a few days.

The rules of our Camp is more strict than any other in Washington, not even the commissioned officers are allowed to go out, while the streets of the city are full of officers. We are about twelve miles from the 27th Regiment, and I must figure to get there some way ere long.

I have not much time to write, but will keep you posted up on matters in our camp, and you must send the News to my address, one copy will do for us all.

Yours &c, Wm. C. Pollard.

_________________________________________

Hall's Hill, Oct. 8th, 1861

C. Benedict:  Sir:  I promised to furnish you with a list of the boys from Maine [Broome Co., NY] that are in Col. Stewurt's Regiment, and below you will find the same:

From Maine:  Lieut. O.E. Hine, Orderly Ser't Wm. C. Pollard, Ser't John N. Clark, Ser't George Kenyon

Corporals:  Don C. Norton, Warren Moore, Jeremiah Robbins, Anson H. Borden, Charles O. Howard.

Privates:  Eli Crawford, Levi Howard, Amos Howard, Joseph Howard, Albert D. Howard, Jeremiah Howard, George W. Edwards, De Ronds Edwards, Francis L. Newton, Aaron Lushier, Henry D. Dnaiels, Alfred S. Edwards, Horrace D. Butts, James McGrigor, Philo Barden, Wm. H. Pierce, Amos Robbins, James Bailey, Luke M. Hammond, Ormando R. Daniels, Albert Moore, Adelbert G. Councilman, Mason Thornton, William Goodrich, Timothy Rockwell, Joseph D. Decker, W. Herrie Darling, Henry C. Lashier, Stephen Mutterson, George Puff, Charles Ingerson, Seymour Painier, Spencer Ricks, Anson W. Payne.

From Union [Broome Co., NY] and in Camp E:  Teamster Elijah D. Cafferty; Private, William Anthony.

In our Company we have forty-three from Maine and two from Union.  There is some ten or more from Union in Capt. Patton's Company.  Patten's Co is the ninth in the Regiment.  Capt. Spaulding's the fifth (letter E).  We have eighty-three men in our Company after letting eight go into another to fill it up. The other thirty-eight are from Savannah, N.Y. and they are large and good men.

There is no news of importance to write today. The weather is very hot in the middle of the day, and shade trees come quite acceptable, which we have plenty of.  We are encamped within two miles of the 27th Regiment.  The troops keep rushing in and the woods are full of the soldiers as well as the cleared lands. We have been formed into a Brigade with two other independent Companies, one from Erie Co. Pa and the other from Wisconsin.  We are the third Brigade of Porter's Division.  

Yours.  Wm. C. Pollard, Com. E 60th Reg. N.Y.S.V., Washington, D.C. 

Vital Records - May 1856

 Oxford Times, May 7, 1856

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Worden Holdrege to Miss E. Almeda Eddy, both of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d ult., by Rev. A. Parker, Mr. S.V. Bryant of Fulton, Oswego Co., [NY], to Miss J.E. Parker of Coventryville.

Married:  In East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., by Rev. Mr. Stockwell, Mr. Augustus B. Sannick of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] to Mrs. Jane Randall of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY] on the 1st inst., Mr. Seth Stratton, aged 84 years.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY] on the 3d inst., Augusta J. [Owen], wife of Mr. Marcus S. Owen, aged 32 years.

Died:  In East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th ult., Mr. Andrew Leach, aged 45 years.

Died:  At Delhi [Delaware Co., NY], April 25th, Sylvester R. McKoon, late student in Oxford Academy, aged 18 years.

Died:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 31st ult. Sophia [Vantassel], wife of Mr. Parley Vantassel, aged 54 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 1, 1856

Married:  In [-?-] Brad. Co. Pa, on the 23d ult, by the Rev. J.D. Webster, Mr. A.F. Corbin to Miss E.S. Lynd, both of the above place.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th ult., Mrs. Miriam Eggleston, aged 86 years.

Died:  At Smyrna Centre [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult. of consumption, William West, aged 74 years.

Died:  In Guilford, [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th ult., Jane [Humphrey], aged 34 years.

Died:  At Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, on the 27th of March, Wm. Henry [Smith], son of Wm. H. Smith, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Oxford Times, May 14, 1856

Married:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., by Rev. M. Thatcher, Mr William Taylor of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Mary J. Allen of the former place.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 8th inst., William U. [Allen], son of Sheldon and Nancy B. Allen, aged 11 months.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult., Albert Daniel [Beebe], son of D.D. and Amelia G. Beebe, aged 2 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 8, 1856

Married:  At the Baptist Church, in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst. by Rev. L. Wright, Mr. Peter W. Baldwin of Kent, Putnam Co. [NY], to Miss Nancy O. Wells, daughter of Jonathan Wells, Esq., of Norwich.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult. by Rev. A. McDougall, Mr. Henry D. White to Miss Malvina E. Stafford, both of the former place.

Married:  In Auburn [Cayuga Co., NY], on the 15th ult., by Rev. J.B. Condit, D.D., Rev. John D. Lawyer, Chaplain of the State Prison, to Miss Frances H. Coonley, of Ledyard, Cayuga Co. [NY].

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult. Mrs. Nancy Mathewson, wife of Noah Mathewson, Esq., aged 81 years.

Oxford Times, May 21, 1856

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th inst., by Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. Andrew J. Keys of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Hannah L. Shapley of Oxford.

Married:  In Upper lisle [Broome Co., NY], on 24th April, by Rev. Mr. Cady, Mr. Edward Adams to Miss Nancy C. Wade, all of that place.

Died:  At the residence of her father, in this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on Thursday, the 15th inst. Emily N. [Mygatt], daughter of William Mygatt, Esq, aged 32 years.  A gentle spirit has passed away, too soon for all save its own immortal happiness.  Her daily life distilled the dews of love, friendship, and Christian charity, and her decline and death illustrated that fortitude of soul, anchored upon a sure hope, which extracts its sting from death, and plucks from the grave its victory.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 15, 1856

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst. by Rev. L. Wright, Mr. Charles Mead to Miss Mary E. Moak(?), both of that village.

Died:  Suddenly, in New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst., Doct. Royal Ross, aged 68 years.

Died:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on the 5th inst. Mary [Sales], widow of Daniel Sales, aged 32 years.

Oxford Times, May 28, 1856

Married:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst., by Rev. D.W. Thurston  Mr. Porter Wood of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Sabra G. Brown of Plymouth.

Married:  In South Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th inst., by Rev. J.G. Bartholomew, Mr. L.B. Church to Miss Sophia P. Landers, both of Bainbridge.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 22, 1856

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 14th inst. by Rev. N. Ripley, Mr Andrew J. Keys, of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Hannah L. Shapley, of Oxford.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst., by Rev. S.U. Ferguson, Mr. Charles P. Congee(?) to Miss Elizabeth Garley, all of the above place.

Married:  In Auburn [Cayuga Co., NY], on the 7th inst. by Rev. B.I. Ives, Mr. Albert A. Denslow, of New Haven Conn., to Miss Katharine D. [Lawyer], daughter of Rev. J.D. Lawyer, Chaplain of Auburn Prison.

Married:  In Mexico, Oswego Co. [NY], on the 14th inst. by Rev. W.A. Rundell, Mr. Samuel S. Breed of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Julia E. Bennett of the former place.

Died:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., after a severe and protracted illness, Cyrus Case, aged 84 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 29, 1856

Married:  In Quincy, Mich. on the 10th inst., Elijah Youlin, of Coldwater, Mich, formerly of this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Phebe Crosby, of the former place.

Married:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst., by Rev. D.W. Thurston, Mr. Porter Wood, merchant of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Sarah G. Brown, daughter of Pardon Brown, Esq., of the former place.

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., by Rev. L. Wright, Mr. Graydon G. Maynard, of New York city, to Miss Phebe A. Band(?) of the former place.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] on the 18th inst., by Rev. S.U. Ferguson, Mr. William Smith to Miss Eliza Welton, both of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst., Mrs. Mabel Hotchkiss, relic of Jeremiah Hotchkiss, deceased.

Died:  In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th inst., Abel Hanford, aged 19 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th inst., after a short but painful illness, Mrs. Jane [Loaden] aged 24 years.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d inst., after an illness of only two days, Charles Hyde [Foote], infant and only son of Isaac and Jerusha Foote, aged 11 months.

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th inst., of disease of the heart Elisha S. Wetmore, aged 11 years.

Died:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], on the 12th inst. Esther [Hawley], wife of Stephen S. Hawley, aged 36 years.

At Colesville, Broome Co. [NY], on the 18th inst., Doct. Charles Josslyn in the 76th year of his age.  Doct. Josslyn was a native of Otsego county [NY], and settled in Oxford about 1804.  In a few years he removed to this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], and was professionally the pioneer of the "Chenango Triangle,"  He filled a conspicuous place in the work of converting a wilderness into the abode of civilization and occupied many prominent positions among his fellow men.  He held the offices of County Judge, Village Magistrate, and Post Master for many years, and was highly esteemed for his official and profession character.  In his social characteristics he had few superiors, and the older inhabitants of our county will revere his memory and commend the virtues he possessed.  His failings, whatever they many have been, were such as injured himself only, and for many years he has heroically resisted the temptations that assailed him, with a fortitude worthy of praise and imitation.  At a good old age he has departed from among us, and those of his contemporaries who survive him will best cherish his memory by imitating his virtues and avoiding the rocks on which he may have wrecked.

Civil War Letter - Alexandria, Va. - October 1861

 Union News, Broome County, New York, October 10, 1861

Camp Dickinson, Near Fort Lyon, Alexandria Va. Oct. 5, 1861

Friend B.:  I have just returned from Alexandria where I have been on business, and for the first time since I left Old Broome, I have sit down to eat at a table like a human being, and upon trial, I found I had not entirely lost the use of a knife and fork, although tis some time since I have practiced using them.  I called at the old "Marshall House," the scene of the Ellsworth tragedy and find it is now used as quarters for a part of the Provost Marshall's Guard.  The building is sadly torn to pieces inside and the staircase on which Ellsworth fell has been literally whittled to pieces.  There is scarce enough left to support a man in ascending.  Every visitor managed to get his chip as a relic before leaving. We have now a new road made to the camp from the valley below as the old one will have to be filled up as it goes through the grounds of the fort.  The new road is built to the west of a little water course in the rear of our camp and it shortens the  distance to Alexandria three-fourths of a mile and is not as steep as the old one.  Our camps on the west and south are protected by the pit and in case of an attack by a superior force our telegraphic facilities could report the fact at the Headquarters of the commander-in-chief.  [portion unreadable]

The first news that greeted my ear yesterday upon my return from the city was that one of our men was shot and [..?..].  I found that one of the men of Co A (from White Plains, Westchester County) by the name of Thomas Hawkins, a tailor by trade, had been accidentally shot through the head, the ball entering the forehead and just [-?-] itself in the back of the head. [--portion unreadable--].  today the most impressive funeral service  which was ever my lot to hear was held over the remains.  The body was placed in a first class coffin and escorted to the depot by the remaining members of the Company accompanied by the Band of the 6th Maine Regiment to be sent home to his friends.  He leaves a wife and four small children to mourn the sudden call of companion and father from earth. To mourn a noble soul departed.

The property of the late Col. John A Washington has been seized by the Government.  Three companies from our regiment being detained for the work of seizure.  Eight or ten horses, one pair of mules, eight hundred bushels of wheat and some other grain, barrels of fish, bacon, &c, &c were among the contraband goods.  I happened to be one of the company of operators.

Virginia now begins to feel (with a vengeance) the horror of this war.  Thousands of acres of valuable timber have been thrown down and destroyed.  Union men are having their houses burned down over them, and on the other side many forsaken dwellings belong to secish have been torn to pieces. Desolation marks the path of both armies, and those citizens who are so unlucky as to be between the line of pickets of the two armies, their condition is truly lamentable. They can purchase nothing either way for love or money, and many of the poorer, who depended on the sale of wood and fruits in their season, have had nothing to eat but vegetables for months, and not even salt to season them.  Negroes are coming into camp every day to get something to eat.  Inside of the rebel lines provisions are plenty, but the prices out of reach of many that are needy.  Peaches are worth at Alexandria six dollars a bushel, outside the lines I have bought them for six shillings.  Enough for the present.  I remain as ever, a Blockhead.  

Vital Records - April 1856

 Oxford Times,  April 2, 1856

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult., by Rev. H. Callahan, Mr. Stephen A. Sheldon of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Sarah E. Haynes of Oxford.

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult., by Rev. H. Callahan, Mr. Christopher C. Foote to Miss Sarah A. Allen, both of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult., Mrs. Elizabeth Smith, aged 57 years.

Died:  In Scott's Valley, Liskiyon Co., California, Jan. 25th, of dysentery, Mr. George G. Wade, formerly of Preston [Chenango Co., NY], aged 22 years and 8 months.  The deceased leaves a bereaved mother, brothers, sisters, and a large circle of friends, all who deeply mourn his premature death, but hope that their loss is his gain.

Died:  In Lincklaen [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st ult., Mr. Andrew Breed, formerly of McDonough, aged 66 years.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on 4th ult. Mary [Reynolds], wife of Timothy Reynolds, aged 68 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 3, 1856

Married:  At Sempronius, Cayuga Co. [NY] on the 25th ult. by Rev. A. Boughton, Mr. Frederick Storing, of German, Chenango Co [NY] to Seraphine H. Smith of Summerhill, Cayuga Co.

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], at the Eagle Hotel, on the 13th ult. by Rev. D.W. Thurston, Mr. Orlando Harrington to Miss Jane Knowles, both of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY]

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult. by the same, Mr. George W. Foster of Masonville, Delaware Co. [NY], to Miss Harriet A. Hopkins of Norwich.

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult., Mrs. Nancy Elliott, relict of Joab Elliott, aged 81 years.

Died:  In Triangle, Broome Co. [NY], on the 28th ult., Deac. Nehemiah Spencer, aged 92 years.

Died:  At Fort Des Moines, Iowa on the 29th ult., Sarah L. [Ransford], wife of Wm. P. Ransford and daughter of H..call Ransford, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], aged 28 years.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th ult., Mr. Jeremiah White, aged 62 years.

Oxford Times,  April 9, 1856

Another Revolutionary Soldier Gone:  Died, at Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY], on the 26th ult., Simeon Rogers, aged 94 years.  Thus has another link which connects us with our early history been severed by the departure of this worthy veteran.  After serving as a faithful soldier in the War of the Revolution, Mr. Rogers took up his residence at the Forks at the early age of 24 (seventy years ago) where he has ever since continued, an enterprising, exemplary and prominent citizen.  When he first came to the county, there was but one house between Binghamton and the Forks, 31 miles apart.  He participated heartily in the improvements of the country, assisted in the division of towns, and in all useful enterprises. As early as the 25th day of August 1802, over half a century ago, he was appointed Postmaster by the Postmaster General, Gideon Granger.  He held the office without interruption, through successive administrations, until, by reason of advanced age and infirmities, he recently resigned.  He has seen his beloved country, for whose liberties and glory he gave his youthful strength and periled his early life, ascend to the present rank amid the nations of the earth, and surrounded by a numerous line of descendants, children and grandchildren and by the smiles of peace and prosperity with the openness of nearly a century of years, he could exclaim with Simeon of old "Lord, lettest now thy servant depart in peace, for mine eyes have seen thy salvation."  The deceased was grandfather of Mrs. Dr. Donne(?) of this village.  Binghamton Republican 

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst., Uri Tracy, Esq., aged 56 years.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Miss Margaret Smith, aged 23 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 10, 1856

Married:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., by Jeremiah Tillotson, Esq., Mr. Amos Wade to Miss Adelia Knickerdocker, all of this town.

Married:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th ins.t, by Lewis E. Carpenter, Esq., Mr. Chauncey Isbell, of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Mary Ann VanWagner of this place [Greene, Chenango Co., NY]

Married:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., by Rev., E.D. Thurston, Mr. Horace Lyon of West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Mary M. Doolittle of the former place.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], at the Universalist Parsonage, on the 27th ult. by Rev. R. Queal, Mr. DeWitt W. Wales to Miss Daucilla Leonard, both of north Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  Also by the same, at the residence of the bride, on the 30th ult., Mr. John Reynolds to Mrs. Polly Baldwin, both of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  At South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], on the 20th ult. by Rev. H. Turner, Mr. Smith Hebbard of Earlville [Madison Co., NY] to Miss Estella Gillespie, of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Earlville, Madison co., [NY] on the 27th ult., by Rev. A. McDougal, Mr. James Andrews, to Miss Almira Loudell all of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., Mrs. Julia A. Mack, wife of Wm. A. Mack, aged 22 years and 5 months.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th ult., Ellen Bryan, aged 23 years.

Died:  In Jersey City [NJ], on the 27th ult., Mrs. Elmina E. Myers, wife of Derick Myers, and daughter of Corrington Lamb, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], aged 22 years.

Oxford Times, April 16, 1856

Died:  In Delhi [Delaware Co., NY], on the 7th inst., J. Lathrop [Cannon], son of Benjamin and Anna M. Cannon, aged 4 years, formerly of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 17, 1856

Married:  In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., by Rev. J. D. Webster, Mr. George J. Dent, to Miss Sarah A. Birley, all of this town.

Married:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst., Mr. Wm. R. Barnes, to Miss Mary L. Plumb, both of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst., Emma M. Walker, daughter of Simeon Walker, aged 5 months.

Died:  At Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY], on the 11th inst., Reuben Hollister, son of Myron Hollister, aged 16 years.

Died:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY] on the 15th inst, Mrs. Mary A. Wilkins, daughter of James Burrows, Esq., of this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], aged 25(?) years.

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst., Mrs. Mary Eaton, aged 42 years.

Died:  In South Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 31st ult. Mr. Eber Barker, aged 85 years.

Oxford Times, April 23, 1856

The body of Edwin T. Riley, whose disappearance was noticed last week, was found on Wednesday, lying on Harrington's flat below the village, near the River bank.  It was out of the water when found, but had the appearance of having been carried there by the current, during the late high water.  Coroner Theodore Miller was summoned, and with a jury held an inquest on the body.  The verdict of the jury stated that the deceased came to his death by drowning, but whether by accident or purposely, was to them unknown.  Riley was evidently insane.  When found his body was clothed in two entire suits of clothes and portions of his garments were three and even six deep.  He was a single man, 31 years of age, and in easy circumstances.  The cause of his insanity and self-destruction (if it was a suicide) was undoubtedly spiritualism.  For several years he had given his attention to the theories and phenomena of Spiritualism, and had even been himself a medium.  His thoughts were much occupied with the Spirits, and he often longed for a spiritual abode, free from the gross care of earth, and so, "shuffled off this mortal coil," and launched to "the undiscovered country, from whose bourn no traveler returns."

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th inst. by Rev H. Gee, Mr. George N. Rector to Miss Sarah Roome, both of this village.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., Jane Humphrey, wife of Lewis Humphrey, Esq., aged 34 years.

Died:  In Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, on 27th March, Mr. Wm. Henry Smith, son of Wm. H. Smith formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 24, 1856

Married:  At the American Hotel, Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on the 7th inst. by Rev. Wm. M. Delong, Mr. Charles A. McFarland to Charlotte A. Webb both of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on the 8th inst. by Rev. P.W. Gorham, Chas. D. Payne, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Maria M. [Nichols], daughter of Israel Nichols, of Smithboro [Tioga Co., NY].

Died:  In Triangle [Broome Co., NY] on the 8th inst., Mr. John Page, in the 82d year of his age.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., of consumption, Delora Wilcox, aged 16 years.

Died:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst. Ard R. Watson, aged 58 years.

Oxford Times, April 30, 1856

Died:  in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th inst., Mrs. Miriam Eggleston, aged 86 years.