Soldier's Letter, Civil War - July 27, 1861

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, August 1, 1861

Letter from Delos Payne

Washington, July 27, 1861

I am well and safe after the great battle at Bull's Run.  The march and retreat has made my knee worse (He injured his knee while on a visit home from Elmira - Ed)  We have not got a correct account of the killed and wounded.  Men fell to the right and left of me.  We drove two regiments into the woods, and they opened a masked battery on us.  Our Colonel (Slocum) was shot in the thigh.  He was not two feet from me.  I carried him off the field.  There are twelve killed and missing in our company.  I have just heard that there are 94 killed in the regiment.  There are about 150 who are not able to drill, from wounds or sickness.

It was a horrible sight to see men with their legs shot off, their faces mangled and wounded in all different ways.  They shot very careless.  I asked one man who lay down beside me, why he did not get up and use his gun, and before the words were out of my mouth he was shot dead, while I escaped.  When I left the field I carried one fellow off on my back who was wounded in the knee.  After that I got three canteens of water, and returned and gave it to those who were wounded. Their only call was for water. The balls whistled around my head all the time I was doing it.  I did not mind it any more than if they were pop-guns. The fear was all gone.

When anyone fell we were all faster than ever.  I shall live to come home yet, all right.  I shall not be able to do any more service until my knee gets well. We have not got our pay yet.  When I do I shall send it all home.

Yours,  Delos Payne.

Vital Records, Oxford, NY - August 1861

 Oxford Times, August 7, 1861

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult., Mr. Caleb J. Sturges, aged 74 years.

Died:  In Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th ult., Dr. James Secor.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 20th ult. Henry C. Martin, aged 21 years.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 20th? ult., A. Elizabeth [Mariam] wife of Mr. Selah Mariam, aged 31 years.

Died:  In Springfield, Mass., on the 30th ult., Sally [Bemiss], wife of Mr. Amariah Bemis, recently of this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], aged 74 years.

Oxford Times, August 14, 1861

Died:  In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on Thursday, August 8th, after an illness of four months, Ann Eliza Carhart, in the 37th year of her age.

Died:  At Amboy, Ill. July 31, Mr. William Church, formerly of this place [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], aged 46 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., Mr. George Percy, aged 24 years.

Died:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., Mr. Jonathan Thompson, aged 74 years.

Oxford Times, August 21, 1861

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., by Dan H. Robinson, Esq., Mr. Stephen Bolt to  Miss Martha Kelsey, both of Oxford.

Died:  In German [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., Alice Bates, in the 6th year of her age.

Died:  In North  Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., of consumption, Mrs. Mary R. [Mead], wife of Dea. Anson Mead, aged 50 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., Emily Laura [Brooks], daughter of Edwin C. and Helen B. Brooks, aged 9 months and 18 days.

Oxford Times, August 28, 1861

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst., by Rev. W.R Cobb, Mr. Malcrus Randall of  Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Sarah L. Marshall of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst., by Rev. B. S. Williams, Mr. Charles H. Aldrich to Miss Frances R. Barnes, both of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th inst., by Warren Gray, Esq., Mr. George Edney to Miss Charlotte Verrill.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d inst., Miss Margaret Case, aged 84 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 20th inst., Sarah A. [Short], wife of Mr. N.H. Short, aged 34 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., of consumption, Sophia Smith, widow of the late Squire Smith, aged 53? years.

Died:  In Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., Francis Upton Fenno, Esq. aged 40 years.

Soldier's Letter, Civil War, 17th NY Regiment - July 17, 1861

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, July 31, 1861

Headquarters, 17th Regiment, N.Y. Volunteers, Camp Lorilard?, Alexandria, Va., July 17, 1861

My Dear Rice:  'Tis nearly three months since our little band of Chenango Volunteers left your lovely village to go away to uncertain war.  Now, when spring has changed into summer, and we Chenango boys have been transformed into United States soldiers, and are actually treading the "sacred soil" of the "Old Dominion," in the very presence of our enemies, and near the places, perhaps on the ground, that is soon to be dyed in blood and put down in history among the great battlefields of the world.  I will fulfill the promise I made you on leaving, that I would write you a letter.

At 2 P.M., on Sunday, our Colonel received marching orders.  The men at once went to work packing their traps and loosening the pins to their tents.  In twenty minutes from the time the order was received, at a loud tap of the drum, the tents were simultaneously struck. Twenty-five four-horse baggage wagons carried our baggage to be shipped to Alexandria.  At 10 P.M. the Regiment embarked on two steamers and moved down the Potomac to Alexandria.  Arrived there about midnight and slept on the wharf the remainder of the night.  Monday morning we marched through the city to this camp.

Alexandria is a conquered city and is the most desolate looking place that you can imagine.  The people are nearly all secessionists, most of them who could get away having left. The places of business are closed, sentinels are on every corner, and the grass is growing in the streets.  It looks as though the curse of the Almighty rested upon it and it was doomed to rot into ruin with many of its people shut in their houses.  The citizens are not allowed to carry arms.  Our encampment is in a beautiful grove on a hill, about a mile west of the city.  Two companies occupy Fort Ellsworth, which is about a hundred rods in the rear of our camps.  It is a large earthwork, built nearly in the form of a star, the cannon being placed at the angles. Twenty-six sixty-four pounders and a number of rifle cannon open their black mouths over the parapets, ready to speak in tones of terrible warning to Alexandria or an enemy approaching from any other side and shower grape shot on their rebellious heads.  Those grape shot, by the way, are ugly looking things.  I think I had rather be excused from meeting a bag of them.

Manassas Junction is twenty-eight miles southwest of us.  Fairfax is on the road about half way to Manassas.  The troops are moving on rapidly to the latter place.  Seventeen Regiments passed here yesterday. As soon as they arrive there a battle will doubtless commence.  Everybody is expecting a great and decisive fight very soon.

If the Rebel forces are routed and driven back, our army will follow them up to Richmond.  If our army is driven back they will retreat to Fort Ellsworth, where they will  be reinforced by the 17th, which forms a part of the rear guard, and we will try and receive the traitors, as Tom Corwin, said he would have received the U.S. Army, in Mexico, had he been a Mexican, "with bloody hands, to hospitable graves."  The force gathered at Manassas during the day will be great on both sides. The enemy are strongly fortified.  The very cannon which battered down the walls of Sumter, are now planted on the fortifications at Manassas. Before this letter reaches you they may be throwing shot again at the American Flag, which, thank God, is now guarded by something more than a feeble band of starved patriots.  

Beauregard is at Manassas Junction, with "theysay," a hundred thousand men.  Our force will be forty or fifty thousand, so you see, allowing the reported number of the enemy to be half true, the odds are against us, and the fight will no doubt be a hard one.  Yesterday, the women and children left Alexandria.  Last night our men had thirty rounds of cartridges given them, their muskets were loaded, and they slept on their arms; most of the Co. was out yesterday on picket guard, to protect various public buildings, roads and the dwelling houses of Union men. They enjoy it finely.  Farmers gave them milk, in which they ate blackberries.  

Three or four of them were stationed in a College, which had been deserted.  "Fost." Sayles stood in the cupola to keep a general look out.  He said that when he came away from home, he didn't intend or expect to go to College, before he got back.  'Tis a capital place out that way to "find" things; one of the Corporals of our Company just made me a present of some nice earthen ware, that he found when he was on picket guard yesterday, else he had them presented to him, I don't know which.  I forgot to ask him.  Some of the houses of the FF.V's are left vacant and open to the weather.  One house, not far from here seems to have bene occupied by a minister, who had a "call" in some other place and went away without taking his library or private papers with him, else he left his library and papers for the benefit of Northern Abolitionists.  Some of the boys don't get as many letters as they want from home, so they appropriate some of these. The library of some 10,000 vols., will fade away before the insidious fingers of literary soldiers, unless they shut the doors soon.  

You must understand that officers of the company punish men severely if they are caught stealing; and if an officer is caught foraging he is court martialed and cashiered. The 17th regiment has the reputation here, as it has everywhere, of being the most orderly and best behaved regiment in the army.  An old gentleman told me this morning that it was a subject of general remark by the union people about here, that not a man of the 17th regiment had been seen drunk or had committed any depredations.

We have a most splendid camp ground overlooking the valley of the Potomac.  We are learning to live in tents and like it more and more every day. There is much of hard labor and much of privation in a soldier's life.  It is now stern reality and no playing soldier.  Company H was never in a better condition than it is today.

Our men who were on picket guard yesterday, have just returned.  They are full of mirth and have lots of stories to tell of their exploits.  Ensign Pellet is now reading a minister's old diary, that Sergeant H. brought in. The minister must have been a very devout and pious man.  Sergeant Hanson was invited to dine with a secession lady, but declined to break bread with an enemy.  The inimitable "Fost."came along the road where the other boys were, dragging a dead dog by the legs.  He said he had a "d---d secessionist"; the cursed dog stole his haversack and beef, and he just tried his musket on him and the dog dropped the haversack and fell down.

Col. L. says the Paymaster is to make us a visit tomorrow. We shall be greatly rejoiced to see him.  We are ready to receive what "Uncle Sam" may see fit to pay us.

Lots of love from Company H, to everybody in Chenango, to the girls especially.  

Truly Yours,  J.O.M.

Vital Records, Norwich, NY - July 1861

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, July 10, 1861

Shocking Accident:  Yesterday about noon, as the accommodation train from this city [Jamesville, Onondaga Co., NY] was running into Milton [Ulster Co., NY], the axle of one of the freight cars broke, throwing this with three others from the track and hurling to the ground Mr. Daniel Foote, baggage man, who was standing upon one of the cars.  He fell between two cars and the wheels of them passed over him, breaking his legs, and one arm and bruising his head. Dr. Treat and Palmer were immediately brought out and under their care the sufferer was conveyed to this city, where he lingered in agony till at a quarter past five o'clock in the afternoon death came to his relief.  Mr. Foote was well known and highly respected for his industry and general good character.  He leaves a wife and three children.  In the baggage car were Mr. Strong, the Division Superintendent, Mr. Hillis, the road master, and a passenger from Milwaukee, and although the car was nearly overturned, strange to say they all escaped without injury except a sprain in the right arm of each.  It was only owing to the uncommon strength of this car that the whole train was not thrown off and probably many lives lost.  No blame is imputed to the company, as the breaking of the axle was entirely unavoidable and inexplicable.  Jamesville Paper.

Mr. Foote formerly lived in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., Y], He was a brother-in-law to Hamilton Phelps, Esq., of this village.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, July 24, 1861

Died:  BOWEN:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], July 16th, very suddenly, James Bowen, aged 75 years.

Died:  PAYNE:  In Guilford Centre [Chenango Co., NY], July 8th, Patty Payne, wife of Rev. Hiram Payne, aged 37 years 6 months and 8 days.  In her life she trusted in and sought to glorify her Savior and in death his grace sustained her, and enabled her to triumph.  "Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord."

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, July 31, 1861

Married:  KNAPP - PEABODIE:  B the Rev. Mr. Thomas, July 4th?, Charles W. Knapp of -?- Ill. to Miss Euphenia Peabodie of Champaign City, Ill.

Soldier's Letter, 17th Regiment, Civil War - July 1861

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, July 24, 1861

17th Regiment N.Y.V., Camp Mansfield, July 14, 1861

We are still in Camp Mansfield expecting [...unreadable...] 

A few nights since the "long roll" was beaten.  The signal which called for this roll was the one decided on as an alarm, and for some time everything had the appearance of a fight.  The men were not "backward about coming forward," and in less than ten minutes the line of battle was formed, and the ammunition was placed in readiness for action. We were not long, however, held in battle array, as notice came that the alarm was created by a band of strollers firing into one of the regiments camped on the right of us.  Our boys were disappointed and reluctantly returned to their quarters. The alacrity with which they seized their arms and hastened to the line, showed plainly that they are actuated by the right spirit.

A few days since, a thief was detected in the regiment, and was forced to parade for two days under guard, being placed in a barrel, with arm holes cut in it, which he wore as a coat, and on it was painted in large letters, "THIEF."  Generally, the rule is this--When a thief is detected in the Regiment he is held responsible for all thefts committed previous to his arrest, and for all following until another thief is detected, the amount being taken from his wages.  This was explained to our men at the assembly for drill one day. A few days after, a negro servant of one of the captains was caught thieving and confessed having stolen various articles--revolvers, money, a watch, &c; in all amounting to much more than the wages due him.  All were in a dilemma how to dispose of the case, when "Fost." Sayles came to their relief and said the only was to get pay for all he had stolen was to "sell the damned ***, and divide the money among the victims!"

On Wednesday last, Charley Ray, of the Chicago Tribune, and well known to you, paid us a visit.  He said he had noticed with great interest the organization of our company, as the proceedings were from time to time published in the Chenango papers, and as he was called to Washington on business, and learning that we were here, determined to see the boys which old Chenango had sent to represent her, even if there was not one among them who was known to him.  He however found several who recollected him, among whom was your scribe.  He declared that nothing made him feel his age as much as to see those "little boys," as he termed them, whom he had left in Chenango, soldiers in the army of the United States.  The interest which he manifested towards us was of the substantial kind, as on leaving he presented us with ten dollars to purchase a dinner for the boys on Sunday, or to be used as we saw fit!  A dinner was procured and arranged under the direction of Corporal Moore, and gave very general satisfaction, and was eaten with the greatest enthusiasm.  God bless such friends as these.  I'll venture the name of Charley Ray will be long remembered by the volunteers of Chenango.

Occasionally a good thing happens in camp.  The following joke I consider of sufficient point to give you.  Capt. G--- of one of the companies of this Regiment owned a very fine dog, at least one which was very valuable to him, named "Etaw,'---a direct descendant of the celebrated dog of that name brought from the Northern Regions by Dr. Kane, and for some time on exhibition at Barnum's.  Well, this "dorg" for some time made the "nights hideous" with his howlings, and one morning, after his yells had been more unearthly than before, Cap. S---, who is a wag, paid Capt. G--- a visit and stated that he wished to purchase half of the dog in question.  Capt. G--- who is a man of "serious inclining" wondered why he made such a request.  Capt. S--- who had collected some around to "see the joke" seemed determined on buying half of the animal for which he offered to pay a good price. After Capt. G--- had insisted on knowing why he wished to make so strange a purchase, Capt. S--- answered if he could make such an arrangement he would "shoot his half of the devilish dog before night!"

Feeling somewhat indisposed last week, I accepted an invitation from Mr. King, the proprietor of the Avenue House in this city to spend some few days at his house.  I did so, and under the ministering hands of himself and family I was shortly feeling in my usual spirits, and again ready for duty.  I passed the time very pleasantly, and met the hon. Henry Bennett.  I would say in this connextion, that should any of the people from Chenango visit Washington, they should not fail to make the Avenue House their Headquarters, as I can assure them they will find everything of the best quality and the house in both a pleasant and convenient part of the city.

I was very much surprised to see the notice in the Telegraph of the 10th, of an affray in Baltimore between some members of our Company and the Baltimore rowdies.  I can assure you that this statement is entirely false, as we met no obstacles in that city, save some "secesher" who from the opposite side of the way called out Jeff Davis' name, nothing in any way opposing to us occurred. Again today I have been shown a private letter from Norwich stating that our friends were very sorry that trouble existed in the Company between the officers and men. This too, is news in this quarter, and if such a statement has gained credence in Norwich, permit me to state that it is totally untrue.  One or two of our Corporals for reported neglect of duty, and for other improper conduct, have been reduced to the ranks, and better men placed in their stead.  If anything from this camp has been written conflicting with this statement, it is from the pens of deposed non-commissioned officers, and was written in the spirit of anger, arising from their deposition, which is unavoidably consequent on the neglect of duty, together with want of due respect and courtesy.

Regarding our Company, I can truly state it was never in a better condition, and the boys are just beginning to really appreciate, and I may day, like a soldier's life.  I would ask the good people of Chenango to put more confidence in us than to believe we would mar the good cause in which we have enlisted, by petty broils and quarrel.  It may not be worth the while for me to say that many errors may arise from crediting all the random reports which may be sent into Chenango by the dubious letters which may be written.  As proof, ‎empty‎ the report of the Baltimore fight, in the Telegraph of the 10th.

We are soon to change our muskets for Rifles.

Since writing the above, that is about twenty minutes ago, we have received orders to march tonight at 4 o'clock. We are to cross into Virginia, and occupy the rear of the right flank of the army in that section.  From the appearance of things now, we can begin to "smell powder." Our boys gave three hearty cheers on receiving the order.  They are good grit!  Please direct papers and letters as heretofore, as I cannot positively give you our next address.

As anything of import occurs, you shall know it, I am yours truly,  E.P.P.

P.S. We have later orders this moment received to go to Alexandria.  Telegraph reports state a terrible fight at Fairfax Court House  Gen. McClelland has also had a battle in which 150 Rebels are killed and 1000 taken prisoners.  His loss is only 10 men.  E.P.P.

Vital Records, Greene, NY - July 1861

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 4, 1861

Married:  At Greenville, Ala., Monday, June 3d, Mr. Horace Smith, Jr., of New York, to Miss Anna [Gregory], daughter of Ossia Gregory, Esq., of the former place.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 18, 1861

Married:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., by N.B. Peck, Esq., Mr. Henry D. Robins, of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Frances L. Ringhea, of North Pharsalia.

Died:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th inst., of consumption, Mr. Lorin Benedict, aged 32 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 25, 1861

Married:  In Triangle [Broome Co., NY], on the 29th ult. by I.J. Dings, Esq., Jeremiah Mead, to Miss Maria [Verrill], oldest daughter of Johnny Verrill, both of this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst., son of Caleb Brown, aged 6 years..

Died:  At Rathboneville, Steuben Co. [NY], on the 17th inst. Gen. Ransom Rathbone, aged 81 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th inst. of consumption, Miss Juliette Ward, aged 26 years.

Vital Records, Oxford, NY - July 1861

 Oxford Times, July 3, 1861

Married:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], on the 22d ult., by Rev. D. Ballou, Mr. Noyes B. Pettyplace to Miss Cordelia S. Brown, both of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Hobart, Delaware Co. [NY], on the 5th inst., by Rev. W. Curtis, Mr. Erastus P. Smith of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], to Mrs. Nancy F. Hauford, of the former place.

Died:  At Houston, Texas, on the 7th of June, Eunice B. [Perkins], wife of Erastus S. Perkins, formerly of this village.

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st inst., Russel B. Burch, M.D., aged 55 years.

Died:  In Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th inst., Mr. Thomas T. Hayes, aged 25 years.

Died:  At Austin, Texas, April 25, 1861, Ruthven [Perkins], son of Harriet B. and the late L.S. Perkins, aged 13 years and 9 months.  A widowed mother, relatives and friends mourn the loss of an only son and dear child, whose short life exemplified a depth of thought and purity of soul worthy the imitation of graver years and truly nothing in life became him like the leaving it.  Death lies on him like an untimely frost.  "Early, bright, transient, / Chaste as morning dew, / Sinless he was exhaled, / And went to Heaven."  Houston Paper

Oxford Times, July 10, 1861

Died:  In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Mr. William Hollenbeck, aged 77 years.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], on the 7th inst., Jane [Willcox], widow of Thurston Willcox, aged 60 years.

Oxford Times, July 17, 1861

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., by Rev. J.D. Webster, Mr. Eli Webb to Miss Clara L. Race, all of Greene.

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co.., NY], on the 4th inst., by the same, Mr. Samuel W Sackett to Mrs. Julia Frances Leonard, all of Greene.

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult., by the Rev. W. Peck, Mr. David Rice of Norwich, to Miss Mary McLagan, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., by Rev. J.D. Webster, Mr. Stephen W. Davis to Miss Elizabeth  M. Wagner, all of Greene.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., Hannah Isabella Thompson, aged 9 years.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY}, on the 6th inst., Mary McCray, aged 44 years.  When her husband, the late James G. McCray, in the pride of his manhood, was suddenly laid in the arms of death, a loving wife and two little children were left without a protector.  One of those children soon faded like a flower, and was carried out to sleep by the side of her father. The mother driven by the iron mandate of earthly law from the home of her happy years, became a poor, wearied and crazed sufferer, has at last found a refuge in the grave.  "There the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary are at rest. They hear not the voice of the oppressor."

Death of Wm. D. Beattie:  This esteemed citizen, formerly Principal of the Oxford Academy during several years previous to 1830, died in New York on the 7th inst.  Mr Beattie had gone temporarily to the latter city from Cleveland where he had resided for more than twenty years, to secure the advantages of climate and superior medical advice for invalid members of his family.  His disease was pulmonary, and his age about sixty years.  Mr. Beattie was formerly known here as a ripe scholar, an intelligent gentleman, and a highly respected citizen.  The following just tribute to his memory, which we copy from the Cleveland Herald,  will find a ready response from all who knew him while a citizen of our village:  Mr. Beattie was a man of much intelligence, great purity of life, took a warm interest in the cause of popular education, and enjoyed the confidence and respect of the whole community.  when a young man he resided in the then small village of Cleveland, and was clerk in the store of the lately deceased Elisha Taylor, Esq. He subsequently went East, and returned to this city with his family twenty years of more ago.  His residence on Euclid street was made the pleasant home of the father-in-law of Mr. B., the Hon. John W. Taylor, formerly Speaker of the house, of Congress, for a number of years previous to the decease of that distinguished gentleman.

Oxford Times, July 24, 1861

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., by Rev. F. Rogers, Mr. Charles Henry Barnard to Miss A. Elizabeth [Gray], youngest daughter of Warren Gray, Esq.

Married:  In Harpersville, Broome Co. [NY], on the 16th inst., by Rev. Mr. Wright, Mr. Benj. F. Cowan to Miss Hannah F. Johnson, both of Greene.

Married:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., by Rev. G.G. Connelly, Mr. Charles R. Bump to Miss Sally J. Shaw, all of Afton.

Died:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d inst., Sophia M. [Foote], wife of George Foote, aged 41 years.

Died:  In Guilford Centre [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., Patty [Payne], wife of Rev. Hiram Payne, aged 37 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., Mr. James Bowen, aged 73 years.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on Wednesday, July 24th, after a protracted illness, Mary Delia [Johnson], daughter of Seth and Jerusha Johnson, aged 10 years.

Soldier's Letter, Civil War - NY 17th Regiment, June 1961

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, July 3, 1861

Headquarters 17th Regt. Camp Mansfield, Washington, D.C., June 27, '61

My Friend Rice:  On Thursday afternoon, June 21st, we were all agreeably surprised by the order to march for Washington, on the day following at 1 P.M.  The excitement and eager hurrying to and fro, preparing for our sudden march can better be imagined than described.  All were at once set work, and the officers were busily engaged in superintending the packaging of the men's knapsacks and in providing themselves with the necessaries for the journey.

We left Staten Island at 1 P.M. and proceeded in a boat to 14th St. where we landed, and marched down Broadway.  The Russ pavement was covered with a thin coating of mud, rendering the footing insecure, and had our Regiment not been proverbial for its temperance, the bystanders might well have thought we were all drunk. But I was informed by several citizens that our marching was a great improvement on that of a Regiment which an hour before marched over the same ground.  We halted in front of the City Hall and received rations, nicely tied up in papers, after which we marched to Pier 3, and took the Red Jacket for Elizabethport, N.J.  Here we arrived at 9-1/2 P.M., and after a delay of two hours took a train for Harrisburgh Pa.  Much delay was made from want of cars, as several regiments had passed over the same route within a few hours previous.  We, however, arrived at Harrisburgh at 6 P.M. Saturday.  Scanty rations were served out to the men on the train, and we were again on our way.

We reached Baltimore, the "mob city," at 9 A.M., Sunday, and marched through the city.  I confess I was greatly surprised at our treatment there.  Instead of receiving unkind treatment, as it had been hinted to us we would, we were most kindly cared for, and as soon as the Regiment came to a halt, men, women, and children, both white and black, were passing ice water among the men, and it was thankfully received, as the day was terribly hot.  Bread, butter, tea and coffee were also furnished for the sick, and the citizens stated their regrets at not being able to furnish the entire Regiment with food.  The New Hampshire Regiment which arrived an hour before us, marched with us through the city.  I had an opportunity to converse with what appeared to me to be prominent citizens, who told me that the Union feeling had always been strong, but the force of the mob for a time kept it down.  I think this may perhaps be true, at least appearances now show that the mob would control if it could!  To substantiate this I will say that regiments passing through by day and by night receive very different treatment.  Two Wisconsin Regiments passed through Washington on Tuesday morning, and the officers informed me that their march through Baltimore at 10 P.M. the night previous, was interrupted by hisses, groans, and that several shots were fired, but the darkness of the night prevented them from discovering from what direction they came.  The Police I was informed were nearly all rabid secessionists.  I was told that only 20 out of the force of 400 were unconditional Union men. This shows that the mob takes the advantage of the night, "where evils are most free."  We however can make no complaint of Baltimore.

We arrived at Washington Saturday night at 4 o'clock, and were quartered for the night, the right wing of the Regiment on Louisiana avenue at the Washington Assembly Rooms, the left in the Congregational church on 5th st., West.  All slept in the pews (as usual when in such a place) and Lieut. Martin and myself occupied the pulpit.  Who ever thought we'd occupy  a pulpit in Washington?  With scanty rations we passed the night and day following till 5 P.M. when the Regiment, except the guard and officer of the guard, who at this time happened to be your respectfully, moved to the heights overlooking Washington from the S.E.  Here we are in camp.  It is very pleasant and the men seem pleased with their quarters.  We do our own cooking and the rations are passable.  The only trouble is with the water.  It is thoroughly impregnated with magnesia and must be used sparingly if used without injury. 

We are within 5 or 4 miles of the enemy, and orders have been given for each regiment to be in readiness for the "long roll" which is liable to be at any moment.  Arrangements have been made [unreadable] to fire these guns and toll the church bells as an alarm.  If this camp is attacked, I think we will be ready.  [...unreadable...] sleeping with one ear open for the "long roll" which summons every man to be instantly ready, and always means battle.  Our company occupies the right of the -?- next to the -?- company.  We are in a good place for the fight, where the battle will be more heavy than in any other place in the regiment.  I saw four Confederate soldiers marched through the streets of Washington on Tuesday last.  Also one man, about sixty years old I should judge, [taken] to prison.  Our men are in good condition and are greatly improving to their camp lives.  We present as good an appearance as any other encampment and much better than some.  [unreadable] in engagement, you may expect to learn a good account form the Chenango boys. We had at Staten Island two stands of colors presented to the regiment, one of which cost $500.  We were not allowed to carry our Chenango flag on the staff, and I took it off and placed it in my trunk. The staff is safely stowed in New York, and we will on our return bear our banner, the remembrance of the fair ones of Norwich, again triumphantly into town!

Our daily routine of Camp life is this:  At 4-1/2 A.M., Reveille, when all in camp must turn out.  Roll is called, and companies dismissed till 5, when squad drill occupies the time till 7.  At this hour "Pess on the trencher" beats.  Dismissed till 10 when company drill sounds.  At 12 dismissed and "Roast Beef" beats at 1 P.M..  From 3 till 4-1/2 company drill.  At 8  Dress parade.  At 7 companies fall in for drill which ends at 8.  Tattoo beats at 9-1/2 when all men are obliged to turn into quarters.  Taps at one, all lights out.  You will see that all the time is occupied, except the few hours between drills.  It is "tremenjus" hot, and the sun comes down at the rate of 90 knots an hour.

Will you be kind enough to send us a Telegraph occasionally.  I hear from friends in New York that they are repeatedly sent, but whether they are intercepted as incendiary documents or not I cannot say; sufficient that we do not receive them.  Even in New York we could not get them, and every letter stated that they were sent. The only one I saw while there was brought by C.W. Oriendorf, esq., who paid us a visit at the Park Barracks.  I saw Mr. Gibbs yesterday.  he was in Norwich last winter.  I also received an invitation from Mr. King, a hotel keeper, formerly from Chenango co., to meet him at his house, but as yet no opportunity has presented itself.  Please send us the files of papers for the last three or four weeks, if you have them convenient.  

I will write you again as soon as anything important occurs.  Believe me to be yours for the flag, and the War till the rebellion is crushed.  E.P.P.

Vital Records, Norwich, NY - October 1841 & June 1861

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, October 6, 1841

Married:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on Monday the 27th ult., by the Rev. J.T. Goodrich, Mr. Brown Tiffany, of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Lovinia Leach, of the former place.

Married:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult. by the Rev. L. Howard, Mr. Lewis Bryant, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Mary Terry, of the former place.

Married:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult., by the Rev. Mr. Chamberlin, Mr. Wm. Johnson, to Miss Mary Ann Randall.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, October 13, 1841

Married:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult., by Eld. Chamberlin, Mr. Lemuel Sawtell, of this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Amy Philips, of the former place.

Married:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., by the Rev. Mr. Abel, Mr. Nelson E. Murdock to Miss Emeline Cushman, all of that town.

Died:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th ult. Mrs. Mary E. Dodge, wife of Mr. John Dodge, and only daughter of the Hon. Charles York, aged 21 years and about 10 months.  The deceased very early in life, believed the Gospel, and turned to the Lord.  She united with the Baptist Church, in Norwich, and has ever since sustained an excellent character respected and beloved by all her acquaintances.  A general sympathy is felt with her bereaved husband and her father's family in their early loss.  But, though cut down in the bloom of youth and in the midst of prospects the most flattering, her affectionate and afflicted husband and friends have great relief and comfort in the manner of her departure.  "The peace of God which passeth all understanding kept heart and mind through Christ Jesus."  Taking an affectionate leave of the whole family individually, she manifested clear views of the heavenly glory, an unshaken hope, perfect peace, joy unspeakable and full of glory, and sweetly fell asleep in Jesus.  "If we believe that Jesus died and rose again even so them also which sleep in Jesus, God will bring with him."  Thess. 4, 14.

Died:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst., Mr. Seth P. Hart, aged 46 years.

Died:  In New York, on Sunday morning last, Samuel H. [Barnes], only child of Mr. Samuel H. Barnes, aged one year and four months.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, October 20, 1861

Married:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst., by the Rev. Mr. Backus, Mr. Otheniel Arnold of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Sarah Roberts, of Pittsfield, Otsego county [NY].

Married:  In Litchfield, Bradford county, Pa. on the 27th ult. by the Rev. J. Towner, Mr. Alfred Hicks, of Rome [Oneida Co., NY], to Miss Mary P. Baldwin of the former place.

Died:  At Little Valley, Cattaraugus county [NY] on the 3d inst. Samuel Kelsey, Esq., aged 66 years.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 5, 1861

Drowned:  We regret o learn that a little child of Jas. D. Ludington? Esq., of Plymouth [Chenango Co., nY], was drowned in a creek near the settlement on Tuesday afternoon of last week.  He was between four and five years old.   While attempting to walk across a pole from one side of the creek to the other, he fell in and before proper assistance reached him he was dead.  It is said that an old man was at the side of the stream in time to save the child, but he was so decrepit that he feared to enter the water. 

The Lost Body Found:  Our readers will remember that in February we gave an account of an accident which happened to Mr. Emerson Gibbs, on the evening of the 13th of that month while he was driving, with his wife and little girl across the river bridge on the road leading from this village towards Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].  The child was lost, and a long search for the body proved unavailing.  The agony of the parents was, of course, terrible.  The recovery of the body would have been a source of some gratification to them. That search was at last given up. On Friday afternoon of last week, James Wescott was proceeding down the bank of the river on the east shore, and when just near the south line of the farm of T.W. Hake of Polkville, saw what he thought to be clothing floating near the top of the water.  He took measures to ascertain whether the clothing was attached to a body, and finally drew out Mr. Biggs little child. We are glad that this body has been found. The bereaved parents will be thankful for the consolation of knowing where their babe is laid and in place of the aching pain of uncertainty as to the spot where its little bones were bleaching, they can now feel something of joy when they visit the spot which they know to be its resting place.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 19, 1861

Married:  HALL - WOOD:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], June 4th?, by Rev. N. Higley, Charles C. Hall to Miss Permelia Wood, both of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  SPAFFORD:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY] on the 10th? inst. Jehial Spafford, aged 61 years.

Died:  PIKE:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] on Saturday morning, June 15th, of consumption, Carlos King Pike, Esq., aged 49 years.

Mr. Pike was a son of the late Samuel Pike, Esq. of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].  He had been for a good many years a prominent citizen of that town, and upon the separate organization in 1840, was for two successive years elected as its Supervisor.  He was appointed one of the original members of the Board of Commissioners of -?- of the county, and continued to discharge the duties of the trust to the general acceptance of the community, until his decease.  He was frank and upright in business, strong in his attachment to friends and in principles; liberal minded as a citizen and obliging as a neighbor.  His death will prove a loss alike to the public and an interesting family thus deprived of their head.

Soldier's Letter - Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 5, 1861

Headquarters 1st Zouaves, Camp Lincoln, Washington, D.C., May 28, 1861

My Dear Father and mother:  The Regiment is ordered to move across the river tonight. We have no means of knowing what reception we are to meet with.  I am inclined to the opinion that our entrance to the city of Alexandria will be hotly contested, as I am just informed that a large force arrived there today. Should this happen, my dear parents, it may be my lot to be injured in some manner. Whatever may happen, cherish the consolation that I was engaged in the performance of a sacred duty; and tonight, thinking over the probabilities of tomorrow, and the occurrences of the past, I am perfectly content to accept whatever my fortune may be, confident that he who noteth even the fall of a sparrow, will have some purpose even in the fate of one like me.  My darling and ever loved parents, good bye.  God bless, protect and care of you.  Elmer

Vital Records, Greene, NY - June 1861

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 6, 1861

Married:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY] on the 1st inst. by Rev. E.W. Allen, Mr. Joseph E. Bonnet of Hamilton [Madison Co., NY] to Miss Sarah Henderson, of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst. Mr. Albert Jafet.

Died:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., of putrid sore throat, Miss Franka A. Rathbone, aged 9 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 13, 1861

Married:  In Utica [Oneida Co., NY], on the 3d inst., by Elder Thomas Hill, William D. Thurber of New Berlin [Chenango Co., Y] to Libby C. Stafford, of Utica.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 27, 1861

Married:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst., by Rev. D. Ballou, Mr. Noyes B. Phetteplace, and Miss Cordelia S. Brown, both of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Brimfield, Mass., on the 18th inst., by Rev. Jason Moore, Mr. Theodore D. Miller of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Sarah F. Brown, of Brimfield.

Married:  In Union Valley [Chenango Co., NY], May 20th, by Rev. S. Carver, Mr. Henry Hall of Norwich, to Miss Adeline Barber of Lincklaen.

Married:  In Hobart, Delaware Co. [NY], on the 5th inst., by Rev. Wm. A. Curtis, Mr. Erastus P. Smith, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] to Mrs. Nancy F. Hauford, of the former place.

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st inst. Russell B. Burch, M.D., aged 55 years and 6 months.

Died:  In Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th inst., of consumption, Mr. Thomas T. Hayes, aged 25 years.

Died:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th inst., Mr. John Brown, aged 84 years.

Died:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st inst. John Henry Adams, son of John C. Adams, aged 17 years.

Died:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st inst., Martin Sisson, son of Thos. Sisson, aged about 20 years.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst. Mr. Geo. W. Smith, aged 52 years.

Soldier Correspondence - Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 13, 1861

Quarters Advance Guard, Camp Butler, near Fort Monroe, Va., Sunday, June 2, 1861

Messrs. Ens.:  Reclining under an orchard tree, shaded from the heat of a Virginia sun, I see around me all the signs and incidents of camp life.  Just before, on the greensward, are the snow white tents of the "Advance Guard," and lying around in picturesque attitudes, are groups of Zouaves, singing, laughing, smoking, cleaning weapons and cooking; looking, in their red breeches, blue jackets, and white turbans, contracted with their sun-burnt faces, lie the "red devils" they are called, by the people of the country hereabout.

Privations are ours, indeed; hard fare, short rations, often no rations at all; hard work, and little liberty of any kind; still there never was a body of men more cheerfully disposed.  At night it seems like a carnival; the brilliant camp fires, the roll of the drums, the loud calls of the sentries, the tramp of the Relief Guard, all betoken the presence of a host of men.

We are encamped about two miles outside of Fortress Monroe, and near Hampton, thus occupying the most advanced post of the position. We have about 9000 men in and about the camp, and it is expected that in a very few days we shall move towards Norfolk.  Accessions to our forces are arriving daily, and we expect to move with at least 15,000 men.  our position is a healthy one.  The fine sea breezes, sweeping over the meadows, and the fine sea bathing we enjoy, are highly conducive to our well being.  Encamped near us are the Naval Brigade, 2200 strong; Col. Allen's New York Regiment; a Regiment from Troy, N.Y., and the Third Regiment Massachusetts troops.

Of our own troops I need say but little; you have read of them and I trust will hear a good account of them in the progress of events. We muster 900, and are undergoing about six hours thorough drill every day.  Col. Durea was the means of bringing the famous "Seventh" Regiment to its high state of discipline, and under his auspices this corps is eager to become what he and its able officers promise it shall be, "the glory of the Empire State."  Dear old State, true, ever, to the Union, may we be as true to her; and although many of us may find graves far from home, it will be our joy to give our lives in support of her honor.  Our men say they can forget all causes of discontent, if they are allowed to fight. Every cannon, whose echoes are heard in the distance, sends a thrill of fire through every heart.  Twice, in the night, we have been roused from our slumbers by the "long roll," and the eagerness with which everyone sprang to arms, evidence the will of our men to fight. A tremendous battle is expected at Norfolk, and at Richmond and we do not expect to bring away more than half our number; but we will restore to tis position of honor, that statue of Washington, which recently in Richmond's Capital was desecrated by traitors and make them bite the dust at its pedestal.

This I assure you will be done, though rivers of blood and fire and desolation be necessary to its accomplishment.  Earnest men are here; who left their homes and kindred, for sake of a great principle.  Such men, are not to be driven back.  The war may be bloody but the victory will be ours.  Today is the Sabbath.  Upon the beautiful lawn in front of the Colonel's quarters our soldiers sat down at Divine Service.  The Rev. Dr. Winslow read the service of the Episcopal Church, and delivered an impressive Sermon, and as I listened to his melodious tones, mingled with the gentle sea breeze, and turned my eye upon the broad surface of that River whose banks are now bristling with hostile cannon through which lies our path, I could not help reflecting upon the awful solemnity of our mission here, and wondering how many of us, ere another Sabbath may be lying cold and low, where mortal tones cannot reach us!

These are the issues of Time that we are trying, but they bear us on close to the shores of Eternity.  Think not, friends at home, that the soldier is heedless of the prayers you utter for him. As we gaze upon the stars, through the still watches of the night, we pass many an hour weaving fancies of home, and the joys to which we hope to be restored.

The Cumberland, Minnesota, and one or two other heavy war vessels are lying in Hampton Roads, and awaiting the orders to move up James River, to cooperate with us at Norfolk. We have had large numbers of negroes coming to us, asking sustenance and protection.  A few days since we extended our outposts to Hampton. The long bridge over Hampton Creek had just been partially burnt by the Secessionists. Your correspondent under Lieut. Hoyt, of Company K, with thirty men, took charge of the bridge, by orders, for twenty-four hours, but we found no enemy to contend with.  The place is deserted, almost. We occupied the beautiful garden of Ex-President Tyler, lying adjacent to the creek. We had fine oysters, and "Hoe cake," furnished by the negroes there, but there is great scarcity of flour, corn, and many other necessaries, and the country generally experiences sad effects from the war. We have sent out small parties, who have taken cannon, muskets, drums, secession flags, prisoners, &c, and many of our men have penetrated five or six miles into the heart of the enemy's country, but without any apparent danger to them, as the negroes say the people are afraid of "those red devils."

We are up at 4 1-2 A.M., have six or seven hours drill each day, besides a sunset parade.  We have tattoo at 8 1-2 A.M., and lights out at 9.  I will write more, and more interestingly in a few days, if I am spared to do so.

Yours, Sergt. W.H.A. Company K, Advance Guard.

Vital Records, Oxford, NY - June 1861

 Oxford Times, June 5, 1861

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., by B.F. Lownsberry, Esq., Mr. Hiram Henry Worden of Preston [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Elizabeth Thorpe of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th inst., Mr. Ashael R. Rockwell, aged 73 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult. Willie C. [Thomas], infant son of J.A. and J.G. Thomas, aged 18 months.

Died:  In Pittston, Pa., on the 24th ult. William Jeffords, formerly a student of Oxford Academy, aged 29 years.

We learn that the child of Emerson Gibbs, which was thrown from a bridge and drowned while passing over the Chenango River near Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], in February last, was recovered on Friday afternoon about a mile below where the accident occurred. The remains were found partly embedded in the sand and in a remarkable state of preservation.

Burned to Death:  The Binghamton Republican [Broome Co., NY], says that on the 24th a man named Thomas Jefferson was burned to a crisp, by falling into the lime kiln, near the Lewis House, belonging to Richard Mather.  He placed two boards across the kiln, and lying down went to sleep.  It is supposed he was intoxicated, or overcome by the gas from the coal below.

Oxford Times, June 12, 1861

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., Mr. Ezra Wells, aged 75 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst. Axey [Carter], wife of Aaron Carter, aged 64 years.

Died:  In East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., Mr. Andrew Japhet.

Died:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th lt., Mr. Nathaniel V. Eastwood, aged 33 years.

Died:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th ult., Mr. Alfred Brown, aged 67 years.

Oxford Times,  June 19, 1861

Married:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., by Rev. W.G. Queal, Mr. J.F. Hazen to Miss Tabitha Bush, both of this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst., Mr. Artemus G. Preston, aged 58 years.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on 12th inst., Richard Thompson, aged 25 years.

Died: In this village [Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th inst. Alice R [Jackson], daughter of Henry and Sylvia Jackson aged 23 months.

Died:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst., Carlos K. Pike, Esq., aged 49 years.  Mr. Pike was a leading citizen of that town, and at the time of his death, was one of the commissioners of Excise of this Co.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst., Mr. Jehial Spafford, aged 61 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst. Mr. Benjamin I. Burroughs, aged 81 years.

Died:  In Tioga, N.Y. [Tioga Co.] on the 10th inst., Miss Maria Ford, aged 60 years, lately a resident of Greene [Chenango Co., NY, and sister of Mrs. Levi Farr.

Died:  In Watertown, Jefferson Co., N.Y., Tuesday June 4th, Benjamin Cory, Esq., aged 66 years.  Mr. Cory was for several years Editor and Publisher of the Oxford Gazette and People's Advertiser, and as such, will be remembered by many of our citizens.

Oxford Times, June 26, 1861

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th inst., by B. Lownsbery, Esq., Mr. George W. Lewis to Miss Olive A. Brooks, all of Oxford.

Married:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst., by Rev. W. Peck, Mr. Andrew H. Ingersol of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Susan L. Thompson of Guilford.

Married:  At the same time and place, by the same, Mr. Andrew M. Dickinson to Miss Maggie L. Thompson of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]

Died:  In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], May 16th, Hesler L. [Herrick], daughter of Jonas and Malinda Herrick, aged 25 years.

Died:  In South Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], on the 3d inst. of consumption, Sarah A. [Whitby], wife of F.M.  Whitby, aged 36 years.

Died:  in McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst, Mr. George W. Smith, aged 52 years.

Death of Wm. H. Jeffords:  It is seldom that we are called upon to perform a duty so painful as this, which records the death of one, in a high degree respected by large circles of acquaintances, dearly loved by associates and friends about the hearth stone.  But so it is and so it must ever be.  Here is not man's abiding place; yet a little while and it is said of him---he was.

Mr. Jeffords died at his place of residence in Pittston, Luzerne Co. Pa., on Thursday, May 30th, aged 29 years.  He had formerly lived in the town of Triangle [Broome Co NY] where his parents still reside.  Consequently from his long residence in this section, together with a wide felt influence, he was known to very many citizens of Chenango, Broome and Cortland Counties.  In early life he formed an attachment for books and sought the pleasant paths along which the wise and good have traveled. From the district school he made his way, yes emphatically made his way (for his hands were hard by toil) to Oxford Academy, at which place, with the exception of one term at Owego, he received a thorough academical education  During this course of study he was an instructor as well as student.  All over Broome and Chenango counties are weeping eyes today because a loved Teacher has gone from earth.

When about 24 years of age, having reached a full maturity of years, he was admitted into the Junior Class of Union College where he graduated in 1857 with high honors.  From College he went forth well prepared for the great work of teaching which up to the time of his last sickness, has been his constant employment.  It may be said of him, he died at his post.  In April, 1857, he married Miss Huldah Seeley of Oxford.  For the past three years Mr. Jeffords and family have resided in Pittston, and he had there become justly noted as a teacher, highly valued as a citizen, a Christian and a friend. He occupied the first rank among educated men, and had shown himself worthy of all confidence as an educator.  he was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, was superintendent of a large Sabbath School and was there too, highly prized for his many virtues.

But by a mysterious providence all this usefulness is suddenly checked; the curtain is fallen; a good man is removed from earth and people mourn.  His last hours found him calm, peaceful and content, only desiring to live for the sake of his wife and little child.  Requesting a favorite song to be sung, his pure spirit took its flight way to that "Beautiful Land."  The funeral services were held in Upper Lisle, Broome County, June 1st. A very large number of people were present to perform the last act on earth for a dear friend.  Rev. Mr. Wells,(Methodist) preached .... People's Journal 

Happenings of the Times - Oxford Times, June 12, 1861

The Seceded States

Eleven States have up to the present time, formally withdrawn from the Union,  The following table shows the date of the ordinance of secession:

1.	South Carolina	December 20
2.	Mississippi	January 9
3.	Alabama	January 11
4.	Florida	January 11
5.	Georgia	January 19
6.	Louisiana	January 26
7.	Texas	February 1
8.	Virginia	Aprl 17
9.	Arkansas	May 6
10.	Tennessee	May 6
11.	North Carolina	May 21

The secession of the four States last enumerated was caused by the promulgation of the coercion doctrine.