Vital Records, Norwich, NY, May 1864

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 4, 1964

Married:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], April 16th, by Rev. J.H. Mason, Mr. Sidney S. Cox, to Miss Mary K. Draper, both of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY], April 11th, by Rev. G.O. Phelps, Mr. Smith P. Hopson, of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Nancy Strait, of Oneonta.

Died:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], April 29, 1864, Mrs. Clarissa Noyes, widow of the late Col. John Noyes, aged 60 years.  Mrs. Noyes, after an absence of some two years, returned to her home in this village about a fortnight ago, with the intention of arranging her affairs for a permanent removal to the West. But in the providence of God, her plans were overruled, and after a brief and painful illness she left us indeed, but for the rest which remaineth for the people of God.  Her preparation for this removal did not need to be made; she was always ready, her lamp trimmed and burning.  Of this her long life spent in this community furnishes abundant testimony, seen and known of all, testimony not unlike that which Dorcas left behind her, good works, fruits of faith, which He who is to be our Judge has advised us is the evidence of faith which He will require at that day.  And as her faith is seen by her works, so was it tried and her heart purified, as many know, in the furnace of afflictions.  Her body was committed to the grave by the side of her late husband's on Saturday last, at 2 P.M., with the hopeful rite of Christian burial, and her soul, we trust, rests in peace amid the joys of Paradise, and in the company of the faithful who there await the resurrection.

Died:  At the U.S. Hospital, David's Island, April 11th, Mr. Luther A. Johnson, of Co H, 89th Reg. N.Y.S.V., aged 23 years.

Chenango's Losses in the Red River Battles

Capt. George M. Tillson, of this place [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], commanding company K, 161st N.Y.V. has suffered amputation of his right arm as the result of a wound received in the recent Rid River battles.  This is a severe loss to a young man, but there is enough left of Capt. T. now (says the Utica Telegraph) to make one of the very best fellows that ever lived.  He has talent, courage, and almost every estimable quality.  We can speak for one who will be mighty glad to grip his left hand in as warm and heartfelt a welcome as was ever given. We most sincerely hope to hear no worse news from his wound than that already received. The only other casualty report in Capt. T's company is John Lloyd, thigh.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 11, 1864

Married:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], April 20th, by Rev. S. Scoville, Gen. Obadiah G. Rundell to Miss Minerva Devoll, all of this village.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], April 20th, by Rev. E. Curtis, Mr. James Silvernail, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Elizabeth L. Bradley of Eaton [Madison Co., NY].

Married:  In East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], May 1st, by Rev. L.E. Spafford, Mr. Daniel Terrel, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Eliza Pettis, of Greene.

Died:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 6th, Abby [Brown], widow of Jesse Brown, aged 83 years.

Died:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], May 9th, Flora [French], aged 2 years.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], May 7th, Miss Emily F. Atwater, aged 38 years.

Died:  in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], April 26th Frederick Newkirk, twin son of William and Selinda Balcom ,aged 6 months.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], April 25th, Mr. Sherman S. Bartholomew, aged 39 years, 9 months and 20 days.

Died:  In Cannon, Mich. April 8th, Harriet K. [Lownsberry], wife of J. D. Lownsberry, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 32 years.

Died:  In Columbus [Chenango Co., NY], April 30th, Mr. Elijah Fuller, in the 88th year of his age.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, May 18, 1864

Child Drowned:  A daughter of Reuben Case, 12 years of age, was drowned by falling into the canal, at the foot of the Sherburne aqueduct lock [Chenango Co.., NY], on Friday evening last.

Taken Prisoner:  A letter received by Gen. Harris, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], from Lieut. Conover, states that Fayette L. York and James Weeden, two Norwich boys, members of Capt. Vaughan's company, 22d Cavalry, have been taken prisoner by rebel guerrillas.  The 22d had been dismounted for duty at Fredericksburg, and their horses stationed under guard near there, when the guerrillas swooped down on guard and horses and carried them off, among them York and Weeden.  It is to be hoped that they will soon be released.  Another member of Capt. Vaughan's Company, named White, it is reported, has been shot by the rebels, but we are not furnished with any particulars.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 25, 1864

Married:  At the Baptist Church, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 12th by Rev. A.N. Benedict, Mr. Henry Bissell, of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Frances F. Rosebrook, of Norwich.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], April 2d, by O.B. Lord, Esq., Mr. Nathan Palmer, of Sherburne, to Miss Kate Pugh, of Augusta [Oneida Co., NY].

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], May 9th, by Rv. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Charles Fisher, to Miss Delia Vickery.

Married:  In East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], May 17th, by Rev. M.S. Wells, Mr. Henry McFarland to Miss Sarah J. Horton, both of Oxford. [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th ult. by Rev. Daniel Ballou, Zeba L. Drake, of Oxford to Miss Emma Bennett, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 17th, Mr. Rufus Phillips, aged 85 years, 4 months and 20 days.

Died:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], on the 20th inst., John G Smith, aged 74 years. The deceased was the brother of James H. Smith Esq., President of the Bank of Norwich, and the first of a large family of brothers to be called from earth.

Died:  In South Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], May 7th, William Frink, Esq., of Fabius, N.Y. [Onondaga Co.., NY], aged 73 years.

Died:  In East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], May 8th, Louisa [Towslee], aged 34 years and 11 months.

Died:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], April 21st, Mr. Elias H. Randall, aged 60 years.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], May 13th, Amie M. [Brooks], wife of William A. Brooks, aged 32 years.

Died:  In the Hospital at Newport, R.I., May 18th, of typhoid fever, Mr. George L. Tifft, of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], a member of Co. I, 22d N.Y. Cavalry, aged 20 years.

Died:  In Cleveland, OH, May 11th, Mary P. [Balcom], only child or Henry F. and Caroline Balcom, aged 3 years, 2 mos.

Death of John Hicks:  A private letter from the seat of war in Virginia to Mr. Wm. Balcom, of this palce [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY] (says the Oxford Democrat) brings the sad intelligence of the death of Lieut. John S. Hicks, of Co. E, 61st N.Y.V., who was killed in battle during the engagement of Sunday, May 8th.  Mr. Hicks was formerly employed in the store of Mr. Balcom, and his circle of warm and admiring friends was very extensive.  As a citizen, he was much respected; as a friend and companion, much beloved; as a soldier, ever faithful in the discharge of his duties.  He was taken prisoner at the second battle of Bull Run, and for a long time confined in the Libby Prison at Richmond.  He has also suffered much from the disease incident to a soldier's life, and been confined considerable of the time in the government hospitals.  He had just been promoted to Second lieutenant, by Gov. Seymour, through the influence of his friends here, his commission having hardly had time to reach him, ere the fatal shot was fired which put an end to his career, and sent mourning and desolation to his now grief-stricken parents and friends at home.  We had not the pleasure of a personal acquaintance with Mr. Hicks, but those who knew him best here, bear ample testimony as to his noble qualities as a citizen, a companion a friend, upright, honorable, genial and warm-hearted, he lived beloved and respected and dies mourned and regretted. Lieut. Hicks was son of Gurdon Hicks, of Norwich, who in his bereavement has the heart-felt sympathy of the entire community.

Soldier's Letter, Civil War, Major Henry B. Morse, 114th NY Regiment

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, May 13, 1863

Letter from Major Henry B. Morse, 114th NY Regiment

We are permitted to print the following letter, written by Major Morse to a friend in this village.  The description of the conduct of the 114th Regiment will be interesting to the multitude who have friends in its ranks.

....There has long been a nest of rebels occupying the western part of this State lying along the Teche, called the Atakapa country.  This is the most fertile part of Louisiana and as rich a country as there is in the whole State.  This country has been a great source of supplies for the South, and has been a convenient place to pasture their cattle, sheep &c., before taking them to Port Hudson.  This nest of rebels made their headquarters about sixteen miles west of Brashear City, at Camp Bisland and from thence sent out parties of guerillas who have troubled our forces much during the summer of 1862, and the past winter and spring.  Gen. Banks conceived the plan of surrounding this force of Confederates and bagging the whole party.  For this purpose he combined the commands of Generals Weitzel and Emory at Brashear city. Gen Weitzel's force consisted of five regiments of infantry, two companies of cavalry and two batteries of artillery. Gen. Emory's force was twelve regiments of infantry, two companies of cavalry and two batteries of artillery. This force, under the immediate command of Gen. Banks, was to proceed up the Teche, attack the enemy and drive them from their stronghold while Gen. Grover with a force of thirteen regiments of infantry, cavalry and batteries, was to embark in boats, go through lakes and bayous to the rear of the enemy, and intercept their retreat.  It was then thought combined action from front and rear would compel the rebels to surrender.  I have been on duty in this city for some time, but wishing to share in the dangers and glory of the expedition with our regiment, I procured a leave of absence for ten days, and reported for duty to Col. Smith at Brashear City on the 8th inst. On the 9th inst. we crossed the bay to Berwick City and bivouacked there until noon of the 11th. We were then ordered into line for a forward movement. Gen. Weitzel's brigade taking the lead which position it held every day, and as the 114th is the 2d regiment in his brigade we had a chance to see the whole thing. The first afternoon we marched about eleven miles meeting with but little opposition and bivouacked that night near Pattersonville.  During the day of the 12th there was heavy skirmishing and we made slow progress.  At four in the afternoon we had marched but five miles. At this time we were marching in line of battle, the 75th N.Y. on our right, and 100th N.Y. on our left. The 6th Massachusetts battery of six brass prices, which it was the particular duty of our regiment to support. was immediately in our rear. As we were marching briskly along, a shell came over our heads killing two horses in the battery behind us.  At this instant a perfect shower of shot and shell was sent amongst us.  Our regiments were ordered into a ditch that very providentially was at hand. While our guns were unlimbered and set at work to respond to the enemy.  For an hour and a half we lay in that ditch the shell bursting all around us, and our own guns behind us firing over our heads, and so near that the smoke would blow down into the ditch where we lay, at every discharge.  Our ammunition at length gave out and we were obliged to return about a mile where we took up quarters for the night, and as fires to make our coffee would not be allowed went supperless to sleep.

On the morning of the 13th, we were called early, and after a little time to get breakfast, were ordered to advance again.  Although the enemy contested every foot of the ground, by noon we had driven them to their earthworks at camp Bisland, and our regiment secured a position next to a piece of woods in a cane field overlooking the enemy's works, where our battery, which was on our right, could operate to good advantage on the enemy. The 75th N.Y. was on our left in the woods, and the 12th Connecticut was on the right of our battery. The enemy made several unsuccessful attempts during the afternoon to drive us back, sending bullets among us like hail and wounding several of our boys, but we held our position until dark. The cane that we were in concealing us from view saved us from heavy losses this afternoon as did the ditch the day before.  At dark we were ordered to retire a little distance and part of Gen. Emory's division was placed in advance, giving us an opportunity for a good night's rest, and I think we all slept soundly though we had had nothing to eat since morning. We were called about half past four on the morning of the 14th, and told we might have a few moments to prepare our coffee and eat our hard bread, and then we must carry the enemy's works by storm. We had not had time to build our fires before it was discovered that the enemy had fled during the night, and we were ordered immediately in advance to give them pursuit. We followed them close during the forenoon exchanging shot and shell with them on the way, and by noon reached Franklin where we learned that the main body of the rebels had escaped from Gen. Grover, who not knowing the country had failed to get a good position to check the retreat of the flying enemy. We took up quarters that night about a mile beyond Franklin and the men satisfied their hunger on fresh beef, pork, mutton, chickens, geese, &c.  The next day Gen. Grover with his division fell in our rear and we continued the pursuit, taking many prisoners each day and camping near the enemy every night.  I went with the regiment some five miles beyond New Iberla, and as my leave of absence had expired and there was no prospect of more fighting, I returned to New Orleans.  My duties were such during the fight and the forced march afterward that I could not get a list of the wounded.

George Ballou wounded in the knee and Frank Fish in the shoulder, are all that I know from Norwich.

All that I can say about the action of the regiment is that I am today more proud and glad than ever that I belong to the 114th.  The country up the Teche is very beautiful, much like that around Rochester, N.Y.  The plantations all show wealth, and the government by this expedition will get large quantities of sugar, molasses, beef, pork, &c.  Also mules and horses, which were much needed in this department.  We also get control of the Salt Works of the rebels and if Gen. Banks goes through to the Red River, we shall cut off all their supplies form Texas. Two foundries with quantities of shot and shell, which will be much missed by the Confederates, were also taken by our forces.  I have only written of the part our regiment took in the expedition.  You will receive the daily papers from here, which will keep you posted on the movements of the army.  I last night received a telegraph from Colonel Smith, dated April 28, New Iberia, saying that he had been sent from the front with the 114th, and 159th N.Y. in charge of property enroute, and that he should go into camp again at Brashear City.  He will probably get down Brashear by Monday or Tuesday next, and I hope to see him down to the city soon.

Truly yours,  H.B.M.

________________________________________________

Adjutant's Report, 114th NY Infantry

Morse, Henry B.:  Age 26 years. Enrolled at Norwich, to serve three years, and mustered in as captain, Co. D, August 13, 1862; as major, September 8, 1862; wounded in action, June 14, 1863, at Port Hudson, La.; mustered in as lieutenant colonel, August 26, 1863; wounded in action, April 9, 1864, at Pleasant Hill, La.; mustered out with regiment June 8, 1865, at Washington, D.C.

Death of Col. H.B. Morse

Henry Bagg Morse, formerly Colonel of the 114th Regiment N.Y. Vols., died at Eaton [Madison Co.., NY] on the 20th of June, aged nearly 38 years.  Mr. Morse was the son of Ellis Morse of Eaton.  On the mustering in of the 114th Regiment, he was appointed major; subsequently Lieutenant Colonel; and finally Colonel.  He was wounded in the ankle while leading the assaulting party at Port Hudson, and at Sabine Cross Roads received a gun shot wound in the arm, which disabled him for several months.  He was for a long time on the Board of Prison Inspectors at New Orleans, and for some time was acting Quarter master of the 19th Army Corps. The Colonel was present at the important and sanguinary battles of Bisland, Port Hudson, Sabine Cross Roads and Cedar Creek.  At the latter his brother A.A. Morse of the same regiment was fatally wounded. When the regiment was discharged, after sufficient recreation, he entered the law office of Pratt A. Mitchell at Syracuse, where he thoroughly prepared himself for the practice of the law, which he entered upon in the State of Arkansas.  By close attention to his business and uprightness of character, he became one of the Circuit Judges of Arkansas, a position which he held with honor.  [Cazenovia Republican, July 2, 1874]

Vital Records, Oxford, NY, January 1864

 Oxford Times, January 6, 1864

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Dolphus Burton of Oxford, to Miss Emily E. Holcombe of Colesville [Broome Co., NY].

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 31st ult., by Rev. B. McKoon, Mr. Otis Francisco to Miss Catarine Allen, all of Oxford.

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d ult. by Rev. Mr. Webster, Mr. Jack Chidester of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY] to Miss Mary E. Webb of Greene.

Married:  in Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult. by rev. Mr. Webster, Mr. Henry A. Day to Miss Lucina A. Gray, both of East Greene.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult. of diptheria, Flora Ann [Ford], daughter of Norman and Elizabeth Ford, aged 8 years and 5 months.

Died:  In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 28th, Wealthy [Hall], wife of Alanson Hall, Esq., aged 63 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult. Emeline [Buck] wife of Mr. D.S.H. Buck, aged 47 years and 9 months.

Died:  In Croton, Delaware Co. [NY], Dec. 22d, at the residence of A.H. Prime, Mr. Robert W. Treadwell of Hancock [Delaware Co., NY], and son of the late Herman Treadwell, Esq., of Croton.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 25th, Mr. Benj. B. Hayward, aged 73 years.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst. Elmer [Root], son of Ansel B. and Clarrisa Root, aged 2 years, 4 months.

Died:  In Cohoes [Albany County, NY, on the 23d ult. Mr. Smith E. Ladd, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], aged 64 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY]\, on the 19th ult., Mrs. Betsey Hutchins, aged 76 years.

Oxford Times, January 13, 1864

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co.., NY], on the 31st ult. by Rev. Mr. Webster, Mr. George R. Lewis of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Margaret M. Dunning, of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult. by Rev. Mr. Rubinson, Mr. Albert Johnson of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Adaline Van Ness of Greene.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Miss Harried E. Drake, aged 18 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst., Laura P. [Yeomans], only daughter of P.P. and Laura Yeomans, aged 16 years.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., Emogene [Ingraham], daughter of -?- and Charlotte Ingraham, aged 3 years, 1 month and 6 days.

Oxford Times, January 20, 1864

Arrest of a Deserter:  Constable Selah H. Fish, of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], passed through a series of dangerous and sanguinary experiences, a few days since in the arrest of a deserter in Otsego County.  It seems that Mr. Fish had suspicions that deserters had been concealed, for some time, on Texas Hill, which seems to have been fitly named to indicate the character of the locality as a resort of refugees from military service.  Calling at the house of one Brown, there was a remarkable coincidence between the advent of officer Fish, and the exit through the window of a young man, taking with him sash, glass and all.  Mr. Fish immediately started in pursuit, and discovered the enemy who proved to be Brown's son, making as good time as possible for the woods. The young man was invited to stop in his mad career at the risk of being fired upon, but neither warning or invitation proving of any avail, Mr. Fish fired, hitting young Brown in the arm, but he still persisted in running, and received another ball in the leg, which materially impeded his progress and enabled the constable after a considerable struggle to get him fast and bring him away.  Brown Senior intermeddled more than necessary or profitable in the matter and inflicted a wound upon the face of Mr. Fish, with a knife which was both unseemly and uncomfortable, and if not intended to be fatal was to say the least very careless. We are glad to learn that the deserter was brought to Norwich and lodged in jail, and trust that he will yet verify the truth of the couplet.  He that fights, and runs away, / May live to fight another day.

Oxford Times, January 27, 1864

Died:  in Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th inst. Mr. Joseph Wilson, aged 52 years.

Died:  In Columbus [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Mr. Joshua Lamb, aged 84 years.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 6, 1864

Death of Capt. Paul W. Latham

We are called upon to record the decease of another of our most esteemed townsmen, Capt. Paul Latham.  His death occurred on Monday, at the Noyes House, in this place [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], after an illness of only five days. The disease which terminated his life was typhoid fever, and his age was 70.

Capt. Latham was born in Connecticut in 1794, and at the age of 18 adopted a sea-going life. During the war of 1812-15 he came to this county, where he had friends living, and where he remained about three years, or during the period that our commerce was driven by British cruisers from the ocean. While here he was employed, at least a part of the time, in the county Clerk's office, under David Bright (father of Hon. Jesse D. Bright) who was then County Clerk, and at that time made acquaintances and formed friendships with some of the older class of our citizens, which were cherished on both sides through life.  For thirty-five years he had been Captain of various vessels sailing out of New York, though mostly of vessels engaged in the trade with Antwerp. After undergoing all the perils incident to a life at sea, having been often the sport of the most capricious fortune, he finally acquired a handsome competence in his profession, and about a year since disconnected himself entirely with sea-going affairs, and came to this place to spend with his friends the remainder of his days, and to enjoy the reward of his intelligence and enterprise.  He was a brother of the late John Latham, of this village, to whose family he was greatly endeared.

Capt. Latham was a genial, gentlemanly, kind-hearted man, liberal in his opinions, generous in his habits, honorable and high-minded in his ways and impulses, and devotedly attached to his friends.  He will long be remembered by all who had the pleasure of an intimate knowledge of his heart and character.  He leaves two children, a son and daughter, by whom his loss will be deeply felt.

Soldier's Letter, Civil War, 114th NY Regiment

 Oxford Times, June 3, 1863

Letter from the 114th NY Regiment

Mr. Editor: To know our situation you must go back with me to the 9th of April, when we crossed Berwick's Bay with Gen. Weitzel's Brigade with nothing but 3 days rations and blankets, with one change of under clothes, bivouacked on the south shore until the 11th, when we took our line of march up the Bay towards Palisonville, marching for the battle field, but did not have a long march, not over 2 miles before the pickets engaged each other.  Our cavalry was skirmishing at our head and it became necessary to send out our Olive branch in the form of a shell, our compliments in that shape were sent often during the day. We slept that night on our arms, and at the dawn of day the preparation was making for the march. At seven we were in line and fighting our way up the tash with Capt. Barots and Capt. Perkin's cavalry still skirmishing in advance, and nobler Commanders are not in our army, nor braver men ever sat on saddles than those that followed them. We passed Palisonville without the loss of a man.  We took several prisoners on the road yesterday the eleventh.  

The 12th brought no change until near night when we were drawn up in line of battle and passed our batteries for their support if necessary.  We had not arrived to our position before the rebel batteries opened fire on us.  (I use the word us for the 114th, were in front) The first shot from the Diana (the gunboat that was taken from us a few weeks since)  grounded in front of the 114th, within a few rods of Co. A.  All seemed calm and composed, the line did not break or waver, but at the left of the colors where Co. H was we had not much time to look in that direction as another shot passed over us, killing two horses six rods in the rear.  The piece of artillery they were drawing was a fine, brass piece. We were soon down in a ditch, and the gun seeking revenge.  It is useless to say that the 114th lay very close to the ground, for we do not call it bravery to stand and see a rebel shell burst if we can get out of range.  The battle raged only one hour and twenty minutes, and we retired for the night amid a shower of shells from the rebel batteries not doing much damage, a few only slightly wounded. One shell burst in the rear of our Company, slightly wounding Corporal Wellock in the neck, James Sandell in the foot, slightly, Dwight F. Taylor very slightly in the head.  Perhaps some copperhead will say the Yankees were whipped.  Let me invite him to the field.  

On the next day at an early hour we again took the field in nearly the same order extending the left Wing to the woods. The engagement commenced near the same ground we left the night before, and four guns opened on the Diana for the space of half an hour, and the rebel flag kept up the Bayou tash.  She was in command of a Texan calling himself the Yankee eater, had pledged himself to go to New Orleans with her, but while she bore away the rebel flag she also bore the remains of the Yankee eater, the Diana was silenced.

The engagement became general along the whole line, which lasted during the day, but the rebel batteries were nearly silenced when darkness put an end to the bloody scene. We had but few killed, I was informed by one of our men that was detailed to bury the dead, that they buried only 18 of our men, and he believed there was not more than 36 in all, and to guess off the wounded I should say one hundred.  Gen Grover's division on the other side of the Bayou suffered greater loss.  

Most of the day the 114th lay in a cane field under a heavy fire of musketry, but escaped with the loss of one man.  James hill of Smithville, was shot through the head at 4 o 'clock in the afternoon of the 12th, died on the morning of the 13th at 9 o'clock.  He proved himself a good soldier and left his work well done, and died a death that none need blush for. 

The officers behaved like brave men, and the 114th Regt. will never make the Empire State blush for their nots on the battle field.  Gen. Weitzel was heard to say the 114th is the best new regiment he ever saw under fire. The coolness of the men astonished me, although I have often wrote that I had arrived at the point where nothing astonished me.  Chenango and Madison Co's may well be proud of the noble sons they have sent here to crush out this unholy rebellion, and Bainbridge may have the honor of furnishing some noble young men that would not like to have their names mentioned in praise here, but will be remembered by the writer while life lasts. Also DeRuyter has done her share, and Oxford need not blush for any from there.  There was many of Co. H, left sick at Brashear City.  

On the 13th we renewed the attack and found the enemy leaving us on a forced march after 3 days fight. The enemy undertook to make a stand at Franklin, but only had time to throw one shot and a few charges of railroad iron and left. We drove them to Vermilion river, 40 miles toward Red river from New Ibera. There the 114th was ordered to return to Brashear City and relieve the country of what cattle, mules, horses they had, and of all droves this excels.  We found no trouble on the way back. After we arrived at New Ibera, Co's F and H were detached from the Regiment to take charge of 159 prisoners. The uniforms and shoes of the rebels are as has been described, clothes of all kinds and colors, shoes like Hen's teeth, rather scarce. I would give more of the particulars of this march if time would admit. Suffice it to say 80 miles of the best part of Louisiana is stripped by the 114th and the army still moving on to Red river and the rebels are universally whipped.    J.

Vital Records, Greene, NY

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 30, 1864

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th inst., Libbie [Duryea], aged 25 years.

Died:  In Brashear City, La., Feb. 16th, Mr.  Henry Morgan of Co. B, 114th Reg. N.Y.V., aged 21 years, son of D.B. Morgan, of German [Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 14, 1864

Married:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst., by Warren Gray, Esq., D.S.H. Buck, to Miss Elida Benedict, all of this town.

Married:  In Cazenovia [Madison Co.., NY], on the 1st inst., by Rev. W. H. Olin, Rev. L.C. Queal, Pastor of the M.E. Church Norwich, to Miss Sarah J. Hall.

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Mrs. Betsy Peck, in her 85th year.

Died:  At Division Hospital, Cold Harbor, Va., on the 3d ult. James H. Roby, of Co. C, 140th Reg. N.Y.V., aged 17 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Mr. Geo. W. Harkins, aged 21 years.

Died:  At the Chenango House, in norwich on the 11th inst. Mr. Peter Quackenbush, of Otego [Otsego Co., NY], aged 32 years.

Died:  In Liberty Township, Clinton Co., Iowa, on the 4th of May, Mr. George Manwarring, formerly of Chenango Co. [NY], aged 53 years.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst. Amis M. [Brooks], wife of William A. Brooks, aged 32 years.

Vital Records, Norwich, NY, April 1864

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 6, 1864

Married:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], March 13, by Rev. Wm. Burnside, Mr. Wm. M. Babee of King's Settlement [Chenango Co., NY], to Mrs. Jane M. Tyler, of New Berlin.

Married:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], March 27th, by Rev. Wm. W. Andrews, Mr. Charles H. Pope, to Miss Elizabeth H. Thomas, all of New Berlin.

Died:  At the Noyes House, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], April 4th, 1864, Capt. Paul W. Latham, aged 70 years.

Died:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], March 27th, Mr. Jacob Woolard, aged 77 years, 3 months and 3 days.

Died:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], March 24th, Homer Winner, aged 9 years 10 months and 9 days.

Died:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], April 3d, Mr. Marenus Gamet, aged 21 years.

Died:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], March 14th, of consumption, Julia A. [Bosworth], wife of Jeremiah Bosworth, aged 31 years, 2 months, 2 days.

Died:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], March 28th, Charles Rich, Esq., aged 83 years.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], March 22d, Sarah [Robinson] wife of J.O. Robinson, aged 23 years, 9 months and 9 days.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], march 21st, Mrs. Alvira Robinson, wife of Daniel Robinson, Esq., aged 60 years.  

Died:  Also March 23d, at the house of her son-in-law, Mr. D Robinson, Mrs. Sally Robinson, aged 78 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 21st, of consumption, Melvin S. [Morse], son of Hezekiah B. and Clarissa Morse, aged 17 years and 10 months.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], March 21st, Mrs. Amy Dibble, aged 84 years.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], March 21st, Mr. Charles Wilcox, aged 83 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], march 27th, Mr. Charles H. Barnard, aged 32 years.

Died:  On board of transport, bound for Folly Island, S.C., March 15th, Ira S. [Atwater], son of John S. Atwater, of Greene [Chenango Co., NY], aged 15 years.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 13, 1864

Died:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], April 7th, of consumption, Mrs. Mary Pellet, wife of Hezekiah Pellet, aged 34 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], April 3d, Sarah [Gray], wife of the late Enoch Gray, aged 73 years.

Died:  In Franklinville, Cattaraugus Co [NY], on the 26th ult., Mr. Seth E. West, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co., NY], aged 67 years.

Died:  At the residence of her son, Youngs Stowell, near Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], April 5th, 1864, Mrs. Anna Stowell, aged 83 years.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] March 28th, Arthur [Knapp], of Dwight and Cornelia M. Knapp, aged 4 years and 9 months.

We regret to record the death of Alfred Nichols, Esq., a well-known lawyer of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], which occurred at that place on Sunday last of diptheria.  He was last fall elected Special County Judge and the office becomes vacant by his death.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 20, 1864

Married:  In Columbus [Chenango Co., NY], March 31st, by Rev. H.S. Hobbe, Mr. Ambrose R. Fenner, to Miss Ruth L. Gillmore, both of Columbus.

Married:  In South Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY], April 11th, by the same, Mr. A. Gray Raymond, of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Laura A. Phelps of the former place.

Married:  In Brooklyn, April 6th, by Rev. M.R. Tompkins, George A. Truesdell, Esq., of Rockdale [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss A. Louisa Hyall, of the former place.

Died:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], April 18th, Harriet Ann [Johnson], daughter of Homer Johnson, aged 15 years.

Died:  in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] April 18th, Mr. Ezra Gibbs, aged 67 years.

Died:  At the residence of her son, Y.E. Stowell, near Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], April 5th, 1864, Mrs. Anna Stowell, formerly of Richfield, Otsego Co. [NY], aged 83 years.

Died:  In King Settlement [Chenango Co., NY], April 10th, 1864, of scarlet fever, Horace G. [Buell], youngest son of Elijah K. and Susan B. Buell, aged 2 years, 2 months and 7 days.

Died:  in North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], April 4th, Daniel F. Bissell, Jr., son of Daniel F. and Jane Bissell, aged 4 years, 1 month and 17 days.

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], April 6th, George Curtis, aged 18 years, 8 months and 4 days.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], April 10th, Mrs. Maria Baker, aged 66 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], April 6th, Jane [Harrison], wife of Andrew Harrison, aged 31 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], April 13th, Mr. Charles King, aged 22 years.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], April 4th, Eva Belle [Carpenter], daughter of Thomas and Ordelia Carpenter, aged 2 years, 8 mos. 

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 27, 1864

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], April 17th, by Rev. J. Ransom, Mr. D. H. Van Antwerp of Afton, Wis., to Miss Adda Cooley of Oxford.

Married:  In Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], April 6th, by Rev. S.S. Goodman, Mr. Lucius Cumber, to Miss Louisa M. Gage, both of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], March 30th, by Rev. T.M. Williams, Mr. Robert B. Knowles to Miss Emily L. Rice.

Married:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], April 10th, by Rev. J.L. Jones, Mr. Charles R. Young, of Rutland Co., Vt., to Miss Sarah Ellen Roberts of the former place.

Married:  At the residence of Col. E.W. Stratton, in Cortland, April 12th, by Rev. S. Crane, Mr. Richard T. Husted, of Marathon [Cortland Co., NY] to Miss Anglia P. Dodge, of Cortland [Cortland Co., NY], formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], April 13th, Mr. Thomas Sheldon, aged 83 years.

Died:  In Columbus [Chenango Co., NY], March 2, Halbert M. [Booth], son of E. and Philena Booth, aged 1 year and 8 months.

Died:  In King Settlement [Chenango Co., NY], March 26th, Harriet A. [Follett], daughter of Marshall A. Follett, aged 6 months and 10 days.

Died:  On board U.S. transport Helen Getty, near Folly Island, S.C., March 17th, Mr. Henry M. Follett, of the 89th N.Y.S.V., in the 22d year of his age.

Died:  At Coventry, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY], April 5th, 1864, Ruth Martin, daughter of the late Dea. William A. Martin, in the 27th year of her age.  She was the youngest daughter of devoted Christian parents.  The germ of divine grace seemed to have been early implanted in her heart.  She appeared like one who had early caught the sweet cadence of heaven, and would soon be borne away.  It is believed that she experienced a change of heart at the age of nineteen, and without delay joined the communion of her parents, the 2d Congregational Chruch in Coventry, of which she remained till her death a faithful and consistent member.  As a Christian she did not exclude herself from the society of the young, but mingled freely in their harmless and innocent amusements.  So unselfish was her disposition, so warmly affectionate, so full of good cheer, that she was a general favorite in the youthful circles.  there was no one whose sunny face was more welcome, or whose genial presence was more anxiously sought. the happiness of others was her great delight. She was ever ready to do an act of kindness. She never failed to impress her associates with her religious spirit, and it may well be said of her that she always stood up for Jesus.  For more than a year she had been fully impressed with the idea "that she had but a short time to live," but this she only confided to her most intimate friends.  About two weeks previous to her death, her disease (of the brain) assumed an aggravated form, and much of the time she suffered the most intense pain in her head. she gave evidence of consciousness to the last, and finally she passed away without a struggle, triumphant, as we believe, in the Christian faith.  She has left many sorrowing friends to mourn her loss, but the sweet consolation remains that she has gone to a brighter world, and there we may hope soon to meet her again.

Death of John P. Smith

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 6, 1864

We had barely time before putting our paper to press last week, to announce the death of John P. Smith, Esq., one of our most prominent citizens which occurred on Tuesday, the 29th ult., at his residence in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].  Mr. Smith had been confined to his house some four or five weeks, with chronic inflammation of the liver, but was not supposed to be in an unusually dangerous condition, when suddenly the disease took an unfavorable turn, and a few days thereafter reached its fatal termination.  He was buried on the Thursday following the day of his decease in accordance with the ceremonies of the Masonic order, of which fraternity he was an honored member, his remains being followed to the grave by our citizens generally, as well as by his brother Masons.  Mr Smith was so widely known in this community and throughout the State, and so universally respected and esteemed for his generous and manly qualities, that the main events of his varied and interesting life will be acceptable to our reades.

He was born in Rome, this State [Oneida Co., NY], March 12th, 1798, which made him in his 66th year at the time of his death. At the age of 15 he went to Utica and served seven years as an apprentice to a tailor. Form there he removed to Philadelphia, where he remained two years, working at his trade; after which he traveled throughout the Southern States on business for several years.  It was here that the aptitude which he possessed in a wonderful degree for large and speculative enterprises developed itself in his character.  Before leaving the South he obtained a railroad contract in Georgia, which he successfully carried through.  He was afterwards, we believe, deputy Sheriff at Rome, to which place he returned from Georgia.  In 1838 he removed to Lockport, where he remained twenty years, and during that time was extensively engaged in the lumber business and interested in canal contracts.  In 1852 he took a contract on the railroad across the Isthmus of Darlen, where he remained, however, only about a month, having been prostrated with the Isthmus fever, and being compelled to return home. While on the Isthmus, he lost a brother older than himself, Asa T. Smith, who had accompanied him there, and who fell a victim to the fever which so nearly proved fatal to him also.

In 1855, Mr. Smith came to Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to reside, having taken the contract to keep in repair the middle division of the Chenango Canal.  previous to coming here he had a contract for grading on the double track of the Central Railroad through Batavia, Genesee County.  His contract for repairs on the Canal has been once renewed, and does not finally expire until a year from next fall.  How well he discharged his duties to the State under this contract is something, perhaps, upon which we are not called to express an opinion, but we cannot resist saying that we believe he consulted the interest of the State quite as much as his own, and that what he did will compare favorably with what has been done anywhere under the contract system for keeping the canals in repair.

In his political feelings and associations Mr. Smith was a thorough and devoted Democrat, a believer in the right of States under the Constitution to regulate and dispose of their internal and purely domestic affairs in their own way, unrestrained by outside interference or control; but he nevertheless gave sincere and earnest support to the Government in raising men for the war, on the ground, we suppose, of a choice of evils, that volunteering was better for the people than conscription, and that the perversions which had marked the progress of the war could thereafter be redressed and corrected, while the rebellion, if permitted to succeed, would be forever fatal to the Union and to all hopes of permanent peace. With these views, held in common with a large majority of his party, Mr. Smith last fall accepted an appointment from Gov. Seymour, as one of the War Committee of this Congressional District, and was elected Chairman of the committee.  How faithfully and willingly he discharged the duties of this honorable position, will, we think, be attested by his associates.

In all the relations of life, public or private, as citizen, husband, father, friend, Mr. Smith bore the character of an upright, generous, large-hearted man.  His ear was never closed to the cry of sorrow or distress, his heart was ever filled with compassion and tenderness for others' woes, and his hand and purse were always open to alleviate human suffering present in any of its Protean forms.  His worth in this respect, conspicuous even among the most liberal and benevolent, can never be forgotten by those with whom he was associated in life.  His place in the community is one which it will be difficult to supply.

Mr. Smith leaves a widow and a family of five children, mostly grown up, to cherish the recollection of his virtues and to deplore their irreparable loss. We quote from words of consolation tenderly laid by some unknown hand upon their new made sorrow:

Poor bleeding hearts; may God be with you, / In this your trial hour, / And gently on the wounds so painful / His pitying mercy shower.

One who notes the sparrow's fall, sees you / Bowed down beneath the rod; / He will raise you, cheer your weeping hearts; / He is a loving God.

The harvest time is coming, faint not; / Your labor's not in vain; / For those who sow in tears, God says, / Shall reap in joy again.

Vital Records, Oxford, NY, December 1863

 Oxford Times, December 2, 1863

The name of the dead soldier who was found on the battlefield of Gettysburg with his eyes fixed upon a miniature of his three little children, the touching story of which has made everybody in the land who has read it weep, has been discovered to be Hummerton, of Portville, Cattaraugus County, New York.  His wife and the three children reside there.

Oxford Times, December 9, 1863

Died: In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY] on the -?-, Mrs. Hannah Annable, wife of the late Elisha Annable, aged 79 years.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult, Willie H. [Alexander], son of Alfred Alexander, aged 4 years, 8 months and 14 days.  "Our little Willie is gone, / He sleeps beneath the tomb. / Where he can sleep alone / Till the last trumpet shall sound. / And when the lord shall come at last / We trust he'll reign among the blest

Oxford Times, December 16, 1863

Married:  In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst. by Rev. D. Williams, Mr. T.M. Williams of Brookfield [Madison Co., NY], to Miss F.M. Turner of Oxford.

Married:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst. by the Rev. D. Ballou, Mr. Ross Blivin of McDonough to Miss Mary J. Miller, daughter of Samuel Miller, of the former place.

Married:  At the Lewis House, in Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on the 5th inst. by Rev. Mr. Boardman, Mr. J.C. Deverell to Mrs. Lottie L. Puffer, both of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., after an illness of nearly two years, Mr. Philo Cole, aged 40 years.

Died:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 20th, Nancy [Rich], wife of Charles Rich, Esq., aged 82 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst. of consumption, Deacon Joseph Baldwin, formerly of Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY].

Oxford Times, December 23, 1863

Married:  At Deposit [Delaware Co., NY], Dec. 15th, by Rev. C.H. DeLong, Mr. George C. Leonard of Niagara Falls to Miss Kate Kingsley, of the former place.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th? inst. at the residence of her son-in-law, J.H. Sinclair, Mrs. Sarah Cheesbro, of Cortland [Cortland Co., NY] aged 70? years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th inst., Andrew Baker, M.D., aged 58 years.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 5th, Mr. Sylvester Humphrey, aged 77 years.

Died:  In C...ville, Wis., Dec. 3d, Mr. Horace Catlin, aged 50 years.  Mr. C. was a son-in-law of the late -?- A. Franklin.

Oxford Times, December 30, 1863

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d inst.,by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Thomas J. Rollins of Eppia, N.H. to Miss Harriet A.E. Sprague of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th inst., by the same, Mr. Henry H. Tracy of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Mary D. Rhodes of this village.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY] on the 21st inst. by Rev. Ashbel Otis, Mr. Theodore B. Schenck to Miss Eliza Kennier all of Smithville.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 12d inst. by Rev. W.G. Queal, Mr. James A. Burlison of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Caroline Weaver Isbell, of Guilford.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th inst. Mr. N.R. Merchant, aged 63 years.

Died:  In Delhi [Delaware Co., NY], on the 9th inst., after a lingering illness, Mrs. Hannah S. McKoon, widow of the late Merritt G. McKoon, Esq., and daughter of Sylvester Rich, Esq., of Croton.  We cannot mourn for one whose days were full of suffering, and whose nights were long through weariness and pain.  One after another the ties of earth were loosened, till the weary spirit departed, as we trust into a Paradise of rest.  Having about a year before her death, been baptized a member of the Protestant Episcopal Chruch, and received the  holy Communion, she ever after reverted with -?- to those -?- of her faith and d...ship, acknowledging herself unworthy of her many blessings, and discarding all  [unreadable] of trial, we would fain think of her as a member of that blessed company who wait in peace and joyful anticipation, for a blessed and holy resurrection.  Delhi Rep.

Died:  At Orange, New Jersey, on the 17th inst., Rev. Thomas Towell, aged 53 years, formerly Rector of St Paul's Church in this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY].

Soldier's Letter, Civil War, April 1863

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, May 13, 1863

Letter From Captain Henry C. Roome, 89th, NY Infantry

Suffolk, Va, April 22, 1863

Our regiment did quite a brilliant little thing on the 19th, the anniversary of our battle of Camden.  The rebels had occupied a fort on the south side of the Nansemond river and with this had blockaded the river, and disabled some of our gunboats.  It was desirable to dislodge them and destroy the works, but it was a hazardous undertaking, as it was supported by a Brigade of Alabamians who were lying about a mile and a half back of the fort.  A night attack and a surprise were agreed upon, and 200 volunteers were called for from our Division.  Our whole regiment volunteered, but they would take only 50 men, 1 Captain and 2 Lieutenants. The expedition started on the night of the 16th, and crossed the river in a gunboat. They had not proceeded a half a mile when they came upon some pickets who immediately gave the alarm to the main body, and our force had to retire.

General Getty, our Division commander, did not like to give up in this way, and he asked and received permission to pick out the three best regiments in the command to try it again.  He chose the 18th Indiana, 8th Connecticut and 89th New York.  We started on the night of the 18th, and marched down to the river.  Some of us had embarked when word was received from Gen. Peck, saying the undertaking was too hazardous, and must be abandoned.  We lay upon our arms all night, and marched back again in the morning, in not the best of humor I assure you.  Gen. Getty again asked permission to try it, saying that he had a regiment who were both willing and able to capture the fort in daylight.  He received it, and accordingly about 3 P.M., of the 19th, while the most of the regiment were sleeping off the effects of the fatigue of the preceding night, we were suddenly ordered into line.  A large number of the men, and a majority of the officers had gone to the camp a mile distant (for during this investment by the rebels we are manning a fort) but we could not wait for them, and were forced to go without them, although it sadly reduced our numbers, making our strength about 125 men and 9 officers. We marched down to the gunboat and there found three companies (about 60 men) of sharp shooters belonging to the 8th Connecticut, who were to assist us. The fort is situated on a high bluff on the bank, completely commanding the river in front and down the stream, but could bring but one gun to bear on any vessel coming down until it arrived in front. The plan was to run the vessel ashore a few rods above the fort. the sharp shooters were then to leap off from the boat, rush up the bank, and engage any infantry which might open fire while we were landing. As fast as we landed we were to run up, charge and capture the fort, seize the prisoners, guards &c. blow up what ammunition we could not carry away, and get back to the boat before their main body could come upon us.  all around the boat an awning had been put up to conceal the troops. As we neared the place, all stooped down to avoid as much as possible the volley of bullets which we were sure we should be greeted with, but to our agreeable surprise not a shot was fired until the keel of the boat grated on the bottom. the order was given for the 8th Connecticut [unreadable] for a moment.  Our boys saw this and with a rush leaped form the stern of the boat (where they were stationed in order to land after the 8th), some of them going over their heads in water, trying to keep their muskets dry if possible, although this was not material as our orders were to take the fort with unloaded guns, and the bayonets alone.  As soon as we clambered up the bank, we were met by a volley of musketry and a discharge of cannister, which had the effect of separating the regiment in two bodies, the greater part with two officers turning to the right and the remainder, 28 men and 7 officers, keeping on over an open field exposed to their fire. We kept on over the field gradually obliging to the right until we reached a road in the rear of the fort and leading directly into it.  Here we dropped into a hollow, in order to gain breath and allow all our little squad to come up. We then saw that the other party in attempting to reach the fort had got themselves entangled in a swamp and were retiring. We saw that if the fort was taken it must be by us.  It was a hazardous thing for 80 men to attempt to charge upon 130 defended [by] 5 pieces of artillery, a shower of grape and canister whistling over our heads.  Don't let them load that piece again was the cry, and with a yell we charged. When we were within three rods of the fort a cannon planted in the road and loaded with a 24-pound shot was discharged at us. the aim was bad and it went over our heads, the wind of the ball knocking over three or four. Another 24 pounder stood by its side loaded almost to the muzzle with canister. The lanyard was pulled but the gun missed fire, and the next instant we were upon them.  As we mounted the ramparts our hearts gave a great thump as we saw them throw down their arms wave a white flags and cry for quarters. When we came into the fort and they saw our small numbers, they commenced seizing their guns again, evidently with the intention of using them as clubs to drive us out. We immediately brought our bayonets to a charge and commanded them to drop their guns. they did not like the glistening row of steep in front, and as their guns had no bayonets, and our friends were hastening to our assistance, they sullenly threw them down and the fort was ours, with five pieces of artillery, five tons of ammunition, one company of artillery, and two companies of infantry, in all 125 men and 9 officers. The prisoners were hurried down to the boat, and the guns were being hauled down, when Gen. Getty asked us if we could hold the fort for an hour.  We told him we would try, and he sent across the river for reinforcements.  I asked the Captain of the fort why he had not fired on us when we were coming down the river, and while we were landing.  He replied that he had not the least idea that the gunboat had troops aboard, but supposed that the gunboat was intended to run the blockade, and he had his guns turned so that when she got in front he could blow her out of the water, and added he, "If that cannon loaded with canister had not missed fire, I would have saved the fort and sent all of your party to your long homes." I replied that I was glad he had loaded it so effectually for it would save us the trouble, and if the rebels attack us that night, we would be happy to give the contents to his friends.  My word was made good for that gun was given to one of our officers to work with his company, and in the attack which they made upon us, he let them have the content.  About 9 P.M., a regiment was sent over to assist us, and by throwing up rifle pits, we were in a situation by morning to withstand their attack. During the night they attacked us twice but were easily repulsed with no loss to ourselves.  Our whole loss is four killed and twelve wounded, four of them mortally.  At 10 A.M., the next morning other troops were sent over to our relief and we recrossed and came back to the fort, having laid upon our arms for two nights, and been without food for 24 hours.  The enemy, about 80,000 strong, under Longstreet, are still investing the place, but I do not think that he will dare attack us.  We are all hoping that he will, as we are confident that with our defenses we can pay them back for Fredericksburg.  

Harry R.

_____________________________________________

Adjutant General Report, 89th New York Infantry

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

Vital Records, Greene, NY, May 1864

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 12, 1864

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on hte 9th inst., Mrs. Polly Campbell, aged 84 years.

Died:  At Fort Schuyler, McDougal Hospital, March 31, of measles, Mr. Joseph Searles of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], and a member of the 5th Heavy Artillery, aged 33.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Mrs. Abby [Brown], relict of the late Jesse Brown, aged 83 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult. Mrs. Clarissa Noyes, widow of the late Col. John Noyes, aged 69 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 19, 1864

Married:  At East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst. by Rev. M.S. Wells, Mr. Henry McFarland, to Miss Sarah J. Horton, both of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Charles Fisher to Miss Delia Vickery.

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst. by Rev. A.N. Benedict, Mr. Henry Bissell, of North Norwich, to Miss Frances F. Rosebrook, of Norwich.

Died:  In East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst. Louisa E. [Towslee], wife of H.L. Towslee, aged 34 years and 11 months.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst. Margaret [Crozier], wife of William Crozier, aged 26 years and 3 months.

Died:  In Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst. Mr. William W. Green, aged 38 years.

Died:  In German [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst. Mrs. Lydia Harvey, wife of the late Cyrus Harvey, aged 79 years, 4 months and 8 days.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 26, 1864

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst. by Rev. Daniel Ballou, Mr. Zeba L. Drake of Oxford to Miss Emma L. Bennett of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Vital Records, Norwich, NY, March 1864

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 2, 1864

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 23d, by Rev. D. Ballou, Mr. Albert Willcox of Oxford, to Miss Frances K. Sanders, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 24th, by Rev. D. Ballou, Mr. Hendrick Houghten to Miss Minnie E. Ingraham.

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 16th, by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Samuel B. Morehouse, to Miss Elizabeth Briggs, both of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  At Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY], Feb. 9th, by Rev. S. Johnson, Mr. Peter Kinyon, of Greene [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Josephine M. Willard, of Chenango Forks.

Married:  In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 15th, by J.H. Stanbro, Esq., Mr. Ambrose D. Parker, of Reedsburg, Wisconsin, to Miss Harriet D. Bartlett of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 27th, by H.J. Locke, Esq., Mr. Warren Stockwell, of Butternuts, to Miss Sarah N. Beardsley, of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 9, 1864

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 1st, by Rev. E.H. Payson, Capt. Henry C. Roome of Co. E, 99th Reg. to Miss Mary Jane [Rouse], eldest daughter of Austin Rouse, M.D.

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 18th, by Rev. M.S. Wells, Mr. Joseph W. Burgess, of La Prairie, Wis., to Miss Mary M. Miller of Greene.

Married:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 27th, by Rev. W. Burnside, Mr. Samuel Hicks, to Miss Celinda M. Boalt, both of Guilford.

Married:  In Morris [Otsego Co., NY], Feb. 17th, by the same, Mr. Lemuel H. Hall, of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Martha M. Sergeant, of Morris.

Married:  By the same, Feb. 25th, Mr. Amos L. Turner, of Morris [Otsego Co., NY] to Miss Sarah M. Sergeant, of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co., NY], Feb. 10th, by Rev. W. G. Dye, Mr. David T. Shattuck, to Miss Sarah Jane Fuller, all of Cincinnatus.

In the list of killed in the late bloody massacre at Olustee, Florida, we notice the name of E.D. Van Camp, a member of Co. B, 8th N.Y. colored troops.  He was drafted into the service last summer from this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], and went to the war with the greatest reluctance, being too poor to pay the $300 commutation.  He was a barber by occupation.  Poor Ed!  It is to be hoped that he "has gone where the good go."

The name of George Robinson, of Co. A, same regiment, is in the list of wounded in the same battle, and it is generally supposed to refer to another colored soldier form this place, of that name.  But the George Robinson from here enlisted in a Rhode island regiment of colored troops which regiment at the last accounts was in Louisiana.  All the drafted negro soldiers from here, however, were in the battle of Olustee.

Death of Jabez Robinson:  Another aged citizen has been gathered to his fathers - another landmark of early days and of primitive simplicity has been removed.  This melancholy event took place at his late residence in this town after a brief and painful illness, on Thursday the 25th ult.  Mr. Robinson was born in Lebanon, New London County, Conn. on the 19th of April 1783.  He removed from his native place to this county, in the year 1808, and settled in Oxford, on the west side of the Chenango river, where, or near the place where his brother Dan. H. Robinson, Esq., now resides.  In the second great struggle of this then infant country to preserve and perpetuate the liberties won in the Revolution, he entered the service of his country in the forces raised by his adopted State, and remained therein until the close of the war.  Mr. Robinson never forgot, and was never recreant to the teachings of his childhood and early years.  Integrity marked and controlled his every dealing with his fellow men.  Rectitude and honesty were a part of the religion in which he believed, and which in all things he ever practiced. A generous hospitality of the New England type ever gave not only to friends and acquaintances a cheerful and hearty welcome to his home, and his fireside, but was also extended to the wayfarer and pilgrim tossed and buffeted on life's varying sea.  He was often in early years the recipient of the favor and confidence of his fellow townsmen in the selection to fill various public trusts, and in November 1834, was elected Sheriff of the county for three years, commencing January 1st, 1835.  In all the various stations which he was called upon to fill from time to time, he was faithful deserving and fully adhering to the tenets of his early education.  A devoted and warm hearted friend, a kind husband and father, a good neighbor, an honest man, he has filled the measure of his days, and now sleeps full of years, honored and lamented.  Oxford Times 

Chenango Union, March 16, 1864

Married:  At the residence of the bride's father, in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] March 9th, by Rev. Wm. Searls, Mr. Martin Calson, of East Hamilton [Madison Co., NY], to Miss Mary C. Marsh, of Norwich.

Married: By the same, at the Parsonage in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], March 9th, Mr. Morgan Pellett of Ill., to Miss Illissie Morse of Norwich.

Married:  By the same, at the Parsonage, in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], March 14th, Mr. A.T. Bidwell of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Orisa Rood, of Norwich.

Married: In Exeter, Otsego Co. [NY], March 8th, by Rev. H. Herrick, Dea. Cyrel Sumner of East Pharsalia, Chenango Co. [NY], to Mrs. Dorthea M . Child, of the former place.

Died:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], March 14th, Mr. John Fisher, (soldier) of Stamford Delaware co. [NY].

Died:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], March 1st, Mrs. Lucy A. [Sibley], wife of Nathaniel Sibley, Esq., aged 32 years 4 months and 7 days.

Died:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 9th, of diptheria, Ralph L. [Smith], aged 6 years 2 months and 9 days; and Feb. 24th, of the same disease, Tommy T. [Smith], aged 4 years 8 months and 4 days, children of John L. and Hannah M. Smithy.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], March 1st, Mrs. J. Hannah Race, aged 87 years and 5 months.

Died:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], March 6th, Mr. Andrew Cohoon, aged 55 years.

Died:  In German [Chenango Co., NY], March 4th, Mrs. Susannah Bonesteel, aged 100 years.

Died:  In Brooklyn, N.Y., Feb. 18th, Mr. Reuben F. Perry, son of the late Dea. Perry, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] aged 40 years.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co.., NY] March 3d, Martha [Simpson], daughter of John C. and Harriet A. Simpson, aged 2 years and 3 months.

Died:  In Lisle, Broome Co., [NY], March 7th, Mr. Theodore Wade, formerly of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 84 years, 2 months and 24 days.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 23, 1864

Married:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on Wednesday evening, March 16th, by Rev. A.N. Benedict, Mr. Dyer M. Thompson to Mrs. Sarah M. Carr, all of Norwich.

Married:  In Hamilton [Madison Co., NY], Feb. 23d, by Rev. W. Peck, Mr. J.F. Place, of Mount Upton [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Amie Newton, of Hamilton.

Married:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], March 13th, by Rev. L. Latimore, Mr. Floyd Brooks to Miss Mary E. Lawrence, all of Smyrna.

Married:  In Cuyler [Cortland Co., NY], March 7th, by Rev. E.N. Ruddock, Mr. A.J. Parce of Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Lucinda M. Brown, of Cuyler.

Married:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY] March 7th, by Rev. E. Holroyd, Mr. Lewis Huntly, to Miss Harriet E. Elwood, all of McDonough.

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], March 7th, by Warren Gray, Esq., Mr. Joseph Verill of the 89th reg. to Miss Lucy Widger, of Greene.

Died:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], March 18th, Mr. Harvey H. Bloom, aged 25 years.

Died:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 20th, Mr. Heman Johnson, aged 82 years 3 months and 20 days.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 9th, Mr. John Miller, aged 79 years.

Died:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], March 5th, Mr. Abraham Reed, aged 77 years, formerly of Otselic [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 8th, Mrs. Ada E. [Douglas], wife of George Douglas, M.D., aged 31 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 15th, Mrs. Julia McMahon [Clarke], widow of the late Wm. H. Clarke, aged 29 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 11th, Henry M. [Clarke], only child of Mrs. Julia M. and the late Wm. H. Clarke, aged 3 years 10 months and 6 days.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], March 10th, Salmon [Beach], son of Alvin Beach, aged 19 years and 9 months.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], March 15th, Runsell Horton, Esq., aged 65 years.

Died:  At Little Rock, Ark. Dec. 26th, Sergt. James S. Noble of the 1st Illinois Cavalry, aged 21 years, son of Rev. James H. Noble, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In the General Hospital Franklin, La. Jan. 13th, 1864, of chronic diarrhoea, Mr. Nathan W. Steere, of Co. H, 114th Reg. N.Y.S.V., formerly of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], aged 25 years and 7 months.  He lies where the orange tree blossoms, with other comrades who have given their lives for their country, where the drum and the roar of cannon they heed no more.

Died:  In Rochester [Monroe Co., NY], March 14th, Sergt, Charles R. Foote, aged 21 years, a member of Capt. Vaughan's Company, 22d N.Y. Cavalry, and son of Col. Charles Foote, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Lisle [Broome Co., NY], March 7th, 1864, Mr. Theodore Wade, aged 84 years, 2 months and 24 days.  The deceased was born at Gloucester, Providence Co., Rhode Island, on the 13th of December, 1779.  He removed from his native place to Guilford, Chenango Co., .Y. in 1818.  In 1843, (being then in his 64th year), he met with a change, which he found to be no less than that described by the Savior: "Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life."  His death will long be lamented by all who were so happy as to enjoy his friendship.  His age rendered his death not unexpected.  But what is their loss is his gain; for he died as the Christian should die.  Calm and collected in his last moments, he committed with pious resignation his body to the earth, and his "spirit to the God who gave it."  Like the Patriarchs of old, his name will be remembered for his virtues, and his virtues served as a bright example to the rising generation.  "The righteous hath hope in his death." "And I heard a voice form heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord from henceforth' yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works so follow them."  

"Then rest, sweet saint, thy duties done, / Thy battles fought, the victory won; / And they who mourn, and miss thee here, / Must strive, and pray, to join thee there." 

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 30, 1864

Married:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], March 17th, by Rv. J.H. Chamberlin, Mr. Daniel W. Irons, to Miss Betsy M. Arnold, all of New Berlin.

Married:  In Walton, Delaware Co. [NY], March 17th, by Rev. J.S. Pettingill, 1st Lieut, George A. Colton, 114th Reg. N.Y.V. to Miss Charlotte M. [Mead], only daughter of Hon. John Mead, of Walton.

Married:  At Grand Rapids, Mich., March 6th, by Rev. J. Morgan Smith, Lieut. David B. Sage of the former place, to Miss Julia E. Beasley of Pharsalia, N.Y. [Chenango Co.]

Died:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], March 25th, Mrs. Adosha Smith, mother of the late Col Elisha B. Smith, aged 78 years.

Died:  In this village [Chenango Co., NY], March 25th, Mrs. Harriet [Harkness], wife of James Harkness, aged 51 years.

Died:  In norwich [Chenango Co., NY], March 12th, Lizzie [Hall], only child of Cortland T. and Emily M. Hall, aged 1 year and 10 days.

Too pure and tender for the storms of earth, / Our little Lizzie, so young and fair, / Was called away by an early death, / To sing above with the angel choir. 

And from the eternal world we hear /Sweet whispers calling, calling; / "Come, Father, Mother, come up here, / for you are fading, failing."

Died:  In St. Mary's Hospital, Rochester [Monroe Co., NY], March 20th, of small pox, Mr. William D. Hughson, aged 18 years, a member of Capt. Vaughan's Company, 22d N.Y. Cavalry, and brother of Orra M. Hughson, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], Mrs. Mary Champlin, aged 72 years 10 months and 13 days.  'Blessed are the dead who die in the lord."

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 1st, Elizabeth [Casey], aged 2 years and 9 months; also March 7th, Margaret [Casey], aged 5 years and 6 months, children of Michael Casey.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult. Charles Newell [Hall], son of Aaron and Lucy Hall, aged 1 year, 4 months and 2 days.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 18th, Amelia [Hall], wife of Henry Hall, aged 41 years.

Died:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], March 20th, Dea. Ebenezer Stowell, aged 82 years.

Died:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 26th, Miss Emeline Bacon, daughter of Alonzo and Sally Bacon, aged 17 years, 10 months and 26 days.

Died:  In Woodstock, Ill, March 2d, Miss Sally Preston, aged 61 years, late of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], March 18th, of whooping cough, Menzo DeForest [Touslee], son of H.L. Louisa E. Touslee, aged 6 months and 14 days.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], March 21st, George [Buck], son of D.S.H. Buck, aged 7 years.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], March 24th, Hon. Samuel A. Smith, aged 82 years.

Death of Hon. Samuel A. Smith:  The Hon. Samuel A. Smith of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], died at his residence in that town on Thursday last, full of years and honors.  Mr. Smith for a long period was prominent in the affairs of this County, having at one time been Sheriff and at other times having represented the county in the legislature.  He was a man of more than ordinary mind of social and benevolent disposition, and always maintained a high character for probity and Christian virtue.  With these characteristics, he could not otherwise been a man of mark and influence in the community where he lived and such he was throughout his days. This makes three of the prominent citizens of Guilford, who, within a few months, have been followed to the grave.--Humphrey Ingersoll.