Saturday, October 16, 2021

Vital Records, Greene, NY, October, 1865

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 5, 1865

Marriages

At Zion Church, in this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th ult. by Rev. F. Rogers, Mr. John B. Juliand, to Miss Cecelia L. [Read], youngest daughter of the late Merrick Read, all of this village.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], on the 3d inst. by Rev. F. Rogers, Mr. Lewis St. John of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY] to Miss Augusta C. [Palmer], youngest daughter of Ira Palmer.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th ult. by Rev. W.C. Bowen, Mr. George B. Foote of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Katie A. Ford, of this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY].

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult., by Rev. E.Z. Lewis, Mr. Wm. Crozier, of Norwich to Mrs. Rowena A. Waters, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

In Pittsfield [Otsego Co., NY], on the 24th ult. by Rev. E.D. Thurston, Mr. James R. Bartholomew of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]\ to Miss Delia Persons of Pittsfield.

Deaths

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst. Henry VanDerLyn, Esq., aged 81 years 5 months and 9 days.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult. Randolph B. Chamberlain, aged 56 years.

In Willet [Cortland Co. NY], on the 20th ult. of consumption, Maurice M. [Dyer], son of John S. Dyer, Esq., aged 21 years and 11 months.

In Ripon, Wis., on the 5th ult. Mrs. Betsey Wheeler, formerly of this town, aged 80 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 12, 1865

Marriages

At the residence of the bride's father, in Nanticoke [Broome Co., NY], on Thursday evening, the 5th inst., by Rev. Wm. Gates, C.A. Van Vradenburg of the Broome Gazette office, Whitney's Point [Broome Co., NY] to Miss Fannie J. [Griggs], daughter of F.S. Griggs, of the former place.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th ult. by Rev. L.E. Spafford, Mr. N.E. King, of Hamilton [Madison Co.., NY], to Miss A.E. Houghton of Oxford.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst. by Rev. L.E. Spafford, Mr. Madison Sayles of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Elcy C. Nicholson, of Preston [Chenango Co., NY].

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst. by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Francis M. Harrington, to Miss Julia E. Porter, both of this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY].

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Seymour S. Taft, of Triangle [Broome Co., NY] to Miss Lottie A. Mallory of Smithville.

In Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], on the 17th ult. by Rev. S. Smith, Mr. John G. Wheeler, to Miss Sarah M. Lamphere, both of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst. by Rev. Samuel Scoville, Mr. Francis M. Buell to Miss Fannie E. Ransford, both of North  Norwich.

In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst. by Edgar Garret, Esq., Mr. Watson L. Wilsey, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Mary E. Wilsey, of Cooperstown [Otsego Co., NY].

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st ult. by Rev. L.E. Spafford, Mr. Samuel Daily to Mrs. C.J. Benedict, both of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY].

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst. Edmund L. Carter, son of Jeremiah Carter, aged 22 years and 6 months.  He was a member of Co. E 114th Reg. and was a brave soldier.  The disease which shortened his life was contracted through the exposure and hardships of camp life.

In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., Mr. Ira S. Beardslee, aged 77 years and 8 months.

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., Frances [Dimock], only daughter of Brown and Ursula Dimock, aged 20 years, late of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 19, 1865

Marriages

In New Lisbon, on the 12th inst. by Rev. E. M. Blanchard, Mr. L. Augustus Knott of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Rosa Weeden, the adopted daughter of Samuel Weeden, Esq., formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

In Mount Upton [Chenango  Co., NY], on the 12th inst., by Rev. W.W. Andrews, Mr. C.S. Graves to Mrs. A. C. Greene.

Deaths

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst. Charles H. [Hall], son of Henry Hall, aged 13 years.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst. Mary [Jamison], wife of Samuel Jamison, aged 67 years.

Sudden Death of a Canal Boat:  A woman named Fonsberry, on board the canal boat Round Hill, met with a sudden death at this place on Saturday last.  On coming through the lock below the village, she complained of feeling ill, and soon after the boat reached here, dropped down dead.  It is supposed she had heart disease.  Her remains were taken to Binghamton.  Norwich Union

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 26, 1865

Marriages

\At the Chenango House, in this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst. by Rev. H. Garlick, Mr. Harvey A. Gray of Barker [Broome Co., NY], to Miss Octavia A. Spencer, of Chenango [Broome Co., NY].

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th inst. by Rev. L.E. Spafford, Mr. Hiram Rorapaugh, to Miss Frank Norris, both of Smithville.

In Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY], on the 20th inst. by Miles Johnson, Esq., Mr. John H. Wilson of Amboy, Ill., to Miss Nettie Chamberlain, of Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY].

In Afton [Chenango Co., NY]\, on the 15th inst. by Rev. B.H. Brown, Mr. Charles David of Bradford Co. Pa., to Mrs. Esther L. Hamlin of Afton.

Deaths

In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst. Mr. Ira Manning, aged 68 years and 8 months.

In Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY], on the 24th inst., Mrs. Lura Lake, aged 24 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., Emma [Breed], daughter of Abel Breed, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 17 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th inst. Mary [Wheeler], wife of Billings Wheeler, aged 24 years, 4 months and 24 days.

Friday, October 15, 2021

Vital Records, Afton, NY, 1883

 Weekly Press, Afton, NY, January 17, 1883

Married:  Miss Nora Whitaker was married to Will Jenkins of Trout Creek [Delaware Co., NY] this Wednesday afternoon.

Died:  Henry Judd, a well known resident of Centrevillage, recently died at the residence of his daughter in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged about 87 years.

Died:  Sylvester Thomson died at Harpersville [Broome Co., NY], Saturday, of heart disease, aged 84 years.  Mr. Thomson was one of the pioneers of the Susquehanna.   His reminiscences of the early days of this vicinity were very interesting.  He will be greatly missed.

Died:  Vander Odell M.D. died at his home in Unadilla, N.Y. [Otsego Co.], on Saturday the 13th inst., aged 74 years.  Dr. Odel was an able and experienced physician, having been engaged in active practice for about fifty years past, and all but about ten years of that time in Unadilla.

Arrest:  H.J. Fox, who was arrested several months ago for attempted arson at Willett, Cortland county, [NY] and was released on bail, to await trail, was rearrested at his residence in Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on Wednesday of this week.  His case is to be tried at this term of court, now in session at Cortland, and as he failed to put in appearance to answer the charge preferred against him, Sheriff Bostwick was sent to ascertain his whereabouts.  Bostwick went to Binghamton, and in company with Sheriff Black and under sheriff Berry proceeded to the residence of Mr. Fox and were informed upon inquiry that he had just gone out.  Immediately a scuffle was heard at the rear of the house, and on investigation, Fox was discovered endeavoring to escape, but was prevented by Berry.  On seeing Black he "wilted."

Afton Weekly Press, April 13, 1843

Died:  Coventry [Chenango Co., NY]:  Melancthon Mandeville died April 8th.  He has been a great sufferer for a long time from a cancer on his face.

Died:  Mr. Appleton, father of John Appleton, of this place [Afton, Chenango Co., nY], died last week, aged 77 years.  His funeral was held Sunday.

Died:  Mr. James Slocum, of Susquehanna, had both legs cut off by the cars Friday morning last.  He died the same evening.

Died:  Miss Georgia Johnson, a ten-year-old daughter of Geo. Johnson, who resides just above this village, died Wednesday night of diphtheria.

Item:  Geo. Nichols, of Ayrshire [North Afton}, has a rifle in his possession that was made in 1800.  This ancient piece of artilery was the property of his grandfather Luke Nichols, who had killed just two thousand deer with this rifle.  A powder horn which belongs to the gun was made in 1797, which is also in the possession of Mr. Nichols.

Died:  Mrs. Welch, mother of Walter Welch, of this place, died last week.  Her funeral was held Sunday, and her remains were interred in the cemetery in Bennettsville [Chenango Co., nY], Her age was 53 years.

Married:  Mr. Charles W. Smith, of Waverly [Tioga Co., NY] and Miss Ella M. Huntley, of the same place, but formerly of Afton, were united in marriage at the residence of Dr. P.A. Hayes, April 5th, Rev. C. A. Stone officiating.

Mrs. Benjamin Barber, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] recently witnessed the marriage of her daughter Sarah [Barber], the youngest of a family of 21 children, 18 of whom are living and all but one are married.  They were all at the wedding.

Tragic fire:  On Wednesday night of ast week, the dwelling of John Wilson, in Hartwick, Otsego County [NY] was destroyed by fire, and Mr. Wilson, aged 77, his wife, aged 63, and two daughters, aged 23 and 18 years, were burned to death.  About two o'clock Thursday morning, the fire was seen by some neighbors, who hastened to the scene, but were too late to render any assistance.  At a later hour the four bodies were got out of the ruins, but the heads and limbs were burned off, only the charred trunks remaining.  Four sons who were absent from home at the time are the only survivors of the family. There was in the house $140 in money.  No insurance on building or contents.

The Notorious Loomis Family - June 1866

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 27, 1866

Interesting History of the Loomis Family (From the Utica Herald of June 19)

George Washington Loomis, husband of Mrs. Rhoda Loomis, and father of William, George Washington, Jr., Grove, Wheeler, Plumb and Denio Loomis, who comprise the male portion of this notorious family, came to Sangerfield Center, in the town of Sangerfield [Oneida Co. NY], about the year 1802.  His brothers, Walter and Willard, also made their homes in the same vicinity. At the time of his (George W. Loomis) settlement in Sangerfield Center, and on the same farm where the affair of Sunday last occurred, he was reputed to be worth several thousand dollars.  He married Miss Rhoda Mallett, of Waterville [Oneida Co., NY], a woman said at the time to be handsome and prepossessing, and not without considerable culture and refinement.  Mrs. Rhoda Loomis, the mother of the "Loomises", to say the least, was once much respected. Still, her history since marriage, would hardly assist one to that conclusion.  So far as her father was concerned, however, she comes honestly by the bad character, it must be said, her neighbors ascribe to her.  He was sent to State Prison in 1812, we are told, being convicted of perjury.  

George Washington Loomis, the husband, died long since, but he is remembered as a man whose character was not of the best.  About 1810 he was arrested, with four others, his brother Willard, and men named Reynolds, Howard and Prentiss, upon the charge of passing counterfeit money.  Reynolds, Howard and Prentiss went to State Prison for their crime.  The two Loomis brothers, equally guilty, were never indicted; the reason as given at that time being that a grand juryman was bribed by the worthy couple, to use his influence and vote for them in the jury room - which arrangement was duly and successfully carried out.  

Since the death of the father, George Washington, Jr., Grove, Plumb and Denio Loomis, have laid claim at least to the reputation bequeathed them.  They have resided upon the farm and formed the nucleus of a gang that has spread terror, alarm, and distrust, not only throughout their immediate neighborhood, but in the state at large.  They have a reputation for thieving, cunning, and wonderful shrewdness in evading either the letter or spirit of the law.  The crimes laid to their charge are numerous, and yet, there is much in their manner and habits as neighbors, that is even praiseworthy.  G.W. Loomis, the brother, recently murdered, had a fine address and was much of a gentleman, nor are these characteristics wholly wanting in Grove and the younger brothers.  William Loomis, the oldest brother, resides, we believe, near Higginsville, in this county, and Wheeler Loomis is at Oswego. The two latter named do not appear to be mentioned in connection with the nefarious operations of the remainder of the family.  

A grand feature of the family's iniquity seems to be their readiness to harbor and protect horse thieves and the like. And many a neighbor, we understand, has found his horse in the barn of the Loomises, without being able to tell exactly how the transfer was made.  And so great has been the terror of their name, that those thus imposed upon by the members of this family, of late years, have seldom acted as if they dreamed, much less really intended to apply the "rigors of the law" to the offenders. Sudden destruction of property or swift calamity has inevitably befallen the unlucky wight who made such complaint.

The Loomis Premises - As They Were

The former residence of the Loomis family, and the place where the transaction of Sunday morning last occurred, is situated in the southwestern part of the town of Sangerfield, about four and a half miles form the village of Waterville, and upon what is known as the old "Oxford turnpike."  The house was a two-story wooden one, some forty feet front, extending rearward with the additions perhaps fifty feet.  It was situated upon a slight elevation, and commanded a pleasing view of the country roundabout.  the Loomis farm comprises about three hundred acres, under a good state of cultivation.  Across the road from the dwelling was the hop house, a substantial building and of a respectable size.  It was perhaps twenty-five rods from the house.  In the rear of the main building was an apology for a barn, where Grove, upon the morning of the fire, had his favorite and really valuable horse.  Two years since, the Loomises had a fine barn upon their premises but it was burned, as "Wash" used to say, by La Vern Beebe (who recently escaped from the custody of Filkins).  After that misfortune the family built another barn, but that was burned at the time of the Fracas that resulted in the death of "Wash" Loomis.  The barn, therefore, burned on Sunday, appeared but a temporary structure, at the best.

The Property - As It Is

We reached the Loomis place, yesterday, about 3 P.M.  All the way thither from Waterville, we met people returning from the ruins.  Indeed, whatever rose to the dignity of a vehicle of any kind, at Waterville and vicinity, appeared to be pressed into service. At the place itself, teams were hitched at all eligible places, and the people, full two score at that time, were looking with evident interest at the scene before them.  All that remained of the Loomis house was the charred and blackened cellar walls, a pile of brick in the center, which appeared as if once it might answered for a chimney, and timbers still burning, showing with what intensity the flames raged.  The fence, situated some feet in front, alone remained unscathed.  

Across the way, an equally desolate scene marked the spot where once stood the hop house.  We noticed "Cornelia" Loomis looking about the ruins with commendable activity.  Just outside the front yard, in the corner of the driveway near the road was the maple tree to which Plumb and the Dutchman, John Stone, were hanged until they made confessions.  An Irishman about the grounds, who rejoices in the euphonious, but somewhat common name of John Smith, informed us that he had been working for Grove for some time, and that upon the night preceding the fire, there were in the house among others, the following persons:  Mrs. Rhoda Loomis, Cornelia, Grove and Plumb Loomis, a lad, the son of Wheeler Loomis, John Stone (the Dutchman), John Smith (the speaker), Adelaide Glazier, --- Crandall and Elizabeth Hawkins.

The Loomis property, as it now appears, is a desolate and sorry scene enough, and thus thought, we imagine, all who have visited it.

What Mrs. Rhoda Loomis Thinks About It

This lady we found safely domiciled with her daughter Cornelia, at the residence of a  neighbor, Mr. Welch--said residence being but a few rods from her old abode.  Mrs. L. did not express herself as peculiarly pleased with the affair which deprived her of a home.  Still, her conversation was calm, intelligent, and not particularly vindictive.  That the affair was premeditated she does not allow herself to doubt.  Indeed, a week ago last Sabbath, she stated two men came to their house and informed them that a caucus of citizens had just been held at "--- City," having for its object the destruction of their property, but they gave the news no practical attention.  She stated the family's loss by the affair to be large and said that there was no insurance of any kind upon the property; that they had applied to the agent of the Agricultural Insurance Company of Watertown for a policy, but the agent informed them he was under bond of one thousand dollars not to take risks so dangerous as theirs evidently would be.  Nothing was saved from the fire, she said, except a few articles of inferior value, including some beds, which the crowd did not steal, but allowed them to keep, with the sympathizing ejaculation, "Let the poor cusses have a bed to sleep on."  Among the officials present at the place before and after the fire, Mrs. L. recognized Deputy Sheriff Stone, of Madison county; Sheriff Conger of Madison county; Constable Hess of Hamilton (we believe) and Hibbard of North Brookfield; also an official from Canastota, named Cole.  And this Cole, she stated, informed her that they (the officials) had a bench warrant for Plumb, who stole a cap in Canastota, last winter, and was indicted at the session of the court, Morrisville, Madison county, but who had not recognized his bail, and that they had come to arrest him.  Mrs. L. complained that herself and Cornelia were rudely treated by the officers and put in irons.  Who fired the house, she don't know, but that it was fired in three different places, the cellar, the garret and a closet, she is certain.

What "Cornelia" Remarked

Miss Cornelia Loomis does not impress a stranger unfavorably.  She speaks with apparent sincerity and candor about the transaction of Sunday morning, indorses the sentiments and account of her mother, filling up the "chinks" of conversation with much fact and success.  She remarked to us, in addition to other things, that she threw her trunk out of the window of the house, while the building was burning; that said trunk, which she forgot to lock and which she intended to go immediately and recover, contained eight hundred and thirty-six dollars in money, but that before she could get it it, the crowd had rifled it of every cent.

Rumors

Madame Rumor was around yesterday.  We met her many times. Those that please may believe her as follows:  that the Loomises were informed previous to the affair that resulted so ruinously for them, that if they would leave the vicinity and take a fair price for their property, it should be paid them.  Again, that Deputy Sheriff Stone of Madison county, said he did not doubt, that the bodies of three dead men, all of them shot by Filkins, were [consumed in the fire] which destroyed the buildings, and once more that "Alvord," who Plumb and Filkins shot a week ago Sunday, was in reality killed, and secretly buried by the Loomises.

What Took the Officials to the Loomises?

What it was that induced the Sheriff and nine officials of Madison county to visit the Loomis house last Sunday morning, is a question which receives but little else than a wise shake of the head in that locality.  Upon this point, however, the story of Mrs. Rhoda Loomis and officer Filkins, as told us yesterday, agree.  And that is the circumstance, as stated above; that they held a bench warrant for Plumb, who had failed to recognize the bail in his case as brought before the last seasion of court at Morrisville. And, it will be remembered that Plumb was actually taken to the Madison county jail, at Morrisville, and locked up.

Who Set Fire to the Loomis Buildings?

We don't know. Whoever does, very like other people in the same circumstances, we ascertained, is not caught informing people about the particulars.  Many of the officials present at the affair, we understand on good authority deprecated the act upon the spot, as one they had not come to perform or one which they sanctioned.  There were from sixty to one hundred persons present at the time.  Who the incendiaries actually were, officers of justice should ferret out, and courts of justice punish.

Grove Loomis

This member of the family  has not been one of the most prominent characters in the affair of which we write.  The crowd who surrounded his dwelling Sunday last, did not for some reason (probably because he signified his willingness to tell what he knew) oblige him to share the hanging process undergone by Plumb. Grove, we understand, went to Hamilton yesterday.

The "Dutchman"

The "Dutchman" John Stone, has gone to Oswego to inform Wheeler Loomis of the Sunday affair, and to pave the way for the removal of Mrs. Loomis to that city.

Public Sentiment

So far as we were able to observe, the majority of the people of Waterville and the town of Sangerfield, do not condemn, in those emphatic terms one would think they should the high-handed proceedings of last Sunday morning.  They do not openly applaud the deed.  What they think about it is an inference each reader may decide for himself.  How the public at large view this latest chapter in the history of the Loomis family and their neighbors, is not so uncertain. The people do not approve of mob law, no matter how long borne or stinging the provocation.

____________________________________________________

Perspective of Grove Loomis

We give on our first page an interesting history of this family who are now the subjects of so much public attention.  Below we print Grove Loomis' account of the recent "cleaning out" operation by the mob in Sangerfield.

"I should think the party, numbering from 60 to 75, arrived at our house about daylight, Sunday morning.  I dressed and went downstairs and found from 10 to 15 persons in the kitchen; some of them spoke and said, "We have no papers for you, you shan't be hurt."  I then passed out and washing myself, and coming in to wipe, the officers produced handcuffs and placed them upon me, as well as irons upon most of the other members of the family including mother, who is 72 or 73 years old.  The house was then searched from garret to cellar.  In the cellar were 8 to 10 barrels of nice cider, some of which I pointed out to the men, and they drew in pans what they wanted and drank.  there was in the cellar two barrels of pork, a large quantity of potatoes and much other valuable property. The house was fired in several places, while we were all still ironed.  I asked to be allowed to go up to my room to save some of my clothing, as well as my sleeve buttons which were worth $16, but was not allowed to do so, they telling me it was of no use, as I had not more than three minutes to live.  During this time a large rope had been procured and the Dutchman, who is a foolish fellow and knows hardly enough to feed cattle and do ordinary farm work, was hung up to a tree, the mob saying they were going to kill him.  Plumb was soon after taken and hung in the same place, the rope tied in a running knot around his neck, and he was held up there until his face was black, and he was seemingly dead.   He was then let down, and after a short time again hung up, both times with his hands ironed behind him.  He was left a long time, until he was perfectly quiet this time, and when let down his face had been severely hurt by drawing him against the limb, and it was a long time before he recovered.

When I wanted to save property out of the burning house, they told me it was of no use, it would do me no good, as I had but three minutes to live.  They told me they would spare my life if I would hold myself responsible if there were any more buildings burned or horses stolen in the State, but I could not do that.  They finally threatened to shoot me if there was ever any of that kind done in the vicinity.  Although we were not allowed to go into the house to get the property out, mother and the girls threw some things out of the windows.  Cornelia's trunk was broken open, and from $800 to $1000 in money taken out, and all her best clothes carried off.  Mother threw out her silver spoons and forks which were all picked up and carried off.  But two of three beds were saved out of some 20 or 25 in the house.  The present value of the property saved from the house could not exceed $50, besides the clothes we had on.  After the Sheriff came back, he said he did not suppose there was going to be any such destruction of property, that it was all wrong, and he sent or ordered some to go and put out the fire which had just started up at the hop house.  I was then released and succeeded in saving a light trotting cutter and some harnesses. The loss by the burning of the house and barns, and what was carried off by those there, is not less than $5000.  I know very who it was that hung Plumb, and who carried off some of the property."

Thursday, October 14, 2021

Mob Law in Oneida County, NY - The Loomises Cleaned Out - June 1866

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 20, 1866

Mob Law In Oneida County - The Loomises Cleaned Out

Waterville [Oneida Co., NY], June 18:

A short time before daylight this morning (Sunday June 17), the Loomis residence in Sangerfield [Oneida Co.., NY] was surrounded by a large number of persons variously stated at from 60 to 100, and the house entered and all the inmates made prisoners and put in irons.  Then commenced a search of the premises.  It is stated that in the house, barn and other buildings, a large amount of property was discovered, supposed to have been stolen.  A close search was made from cellar to garret, and some of the articles found were thrown out of the house, and others thrown around promiscuously.

Mrs. Loomis states that after the search had commenced, she followed the party upstairs and found that the house had been fired in a closet, and that she procured a pail of water and put it out; also that going into another room she saw a bed had been torn open and fired.  She turned that over and subdued the fire. She further states that the fire that consumed the house was kindled in the cellar. The prisoners and some of the contents of the building were removed and the house completely destroyed.

The persons taken prisoners were Mrs. Rhoda Loomis, Miss Cornelia Loomis, and Plumb Loomis.  The above were ironed, and there were several occupants of the house over whom a strict watch as kept, but who were not arrested.

Soon after the party left the house a Dutch boy in the employ of the family was taken and hung up to a tree, in order to make him confess, if possible, what he knew of the doings of the family and others that were there.  Nothing of importance was learned, further than that the man Alvord (who, it will be remembered, the Loomises denied having been at the house Saturday and Sunday, June 9th and 10th-- the latter being the day officer Filkins claims he shot him on the stairs, but who, they say, was not there at all) was at the Loomis residence on Saturday, the 9th, and that he had a gun with him.

After releasing the Dutchman, the party took Plumb Loomis and hung him up in the same manner, and called upon him to confess. He was served in this manner three times, and the last time upon being let down was found to be perfectly senseless.  Between the hangings he affirmed that he had not seen the man Alvord in five years, and also said that the man who shot Filkins was a brother of Thomas Mott, now in Morrisville jail, who also fired the barn of Mr. Terry, in this place last fall, and Mr. Conger's buildings at Sweet's Corners, some time ago; that he, Mott, was hired by the Loomis family to do it; also that Alvord was on Sunday shot twice of officer Filkins, and that Grove took him away yesterday (Saturday).  He also said that Mott and others, for whom there were papers, were away from here now, but proclaimed his readiness to assist in finding him. Grove also expressed himself in the same manner.

The party then proceeded to remove the horses and other live stock out of harm's way, and then fired the barn and shanties, destroying everything.  The hop house was the last building fired. A small barn or shanty that was up back of the woods, was not destroyed, being the only thing left standing on the premises.

Mrs. Loomis says that the party was composed of persons mostly from Madison county; that she did not know of any from Waterville connected with it.  Others say that officer Stone, of Madison county and a large posse  of aids were present, and that they with a party from North Brookfield were the main movers in the affair.

Plumb Loomis was taken to Morrisville jail in irons.  The others were released on condition that they leave these parts within 30 days; if seen here after that time they forfeit their lives.  Although they had been warned of the intended raid, no resistance was offered by any member of the family, and therefore no shots were fired; but had there been any, the attacking party were prepared to give them a warm return.

The family are now sitting at the roadside, on the fences, with scarcely anything left but what they have upon them.

Vital Records, Norwich, NY, June 1866

 Chenango Telegraph & Chronicle, Norwich, NY, June 6, 1866

Marriages

THOMPSON - HOPKINS:  At the residence of the bride's father on the -?- , E.R. Thompson, of Watertown, N.Y. [Jefferson Co.] to Mary A. [Hopkins], youngest daughter of Henry Hopkins, Esq., of Rutland, Jefferson County, N.Y.

Deaths

CALKINS:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on Monday evening 28th ult. Chauncey Calkins, aged 59? years.

McKOON:  In Columbia, Herkimer County, N.Y., May 12th, Caroline [McKoon], wife of Rev. Benjamin McKoon, aged 59 years.

Death of Dr. A.A. Baker

BAKER:  At Howard, Steuben County, N.Y. on the 19th ult. of consumption, Mr. Austin A. Baker, son of Dr. Andrew Baker (deceased), aged 36 years and 11 days.

We are pained to learn of the death of Dr. Austin A. Baker formerly of this place [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], which took place at Howard, Steuben County, on the 19th ult of Consumption.  The Doctor, it will be remembered was a son of the late Andrew Baker, M.D. of this village.  He was licensed to practice by the Chenango Co. Medical Society, and practiced for a short time with his father in this village, when he removed to Onondaga County where he made for himself a good reputation as a skillful Physician.  His many friends in this village will learn with regret his early demise.  His age was 36 years.

Chenango Union, June 13, 1866

Marriages

At the Chenango House, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], June 5th, by Rev. R.A. Paterson, Mr. Waldo H. Tyler, of Westford, Otsego Co. [NY], to Miss Ella J. Marr of this place.

At St. Paul's Church, Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], June 6th, by Rev. W. Ayrault, Maj. O.H. Curtis to Miss S.E. Van Wagenen, all of Oxford.

In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], May 26th, by Rev. L.B. Hyde, Mr. Theron W. Sharp, of Greene, to Miss Ann English, of Omemee, C.W.

In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], May 25th, by Rev. I.B. Hyde, Mr. Loren W. Lincoln of Groton [Tompkins Co., NY], to Miss Mary F. Main of Dryden [Tompkins Co., NY].

Note:  Deaths for this issue have been previously posted.  Search on June 13, 1866 to locate the posting.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 20, 1866

Marriages

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], June 14th, by Rev. James Douglas, of Pulaski, N.Y. assisted by Rev. E.B. Payson, George Douglas, M.D. to Jane S. [Mygatt], daughter of William Mygatt, Esq., both of Oxford.

In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], June 6th, by Rev. R.A. Paterson, Mr. Charles Heady of Norwich, to Miss Laura A. Barker, of the former place.

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], May 24th, by Rev. S.M. Reeler, Mr. F.T. Nichols, to Miss Juliett N. Hickox.

Deaths

In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], June 2d, Mr. Alanson Green departed this life, in the triumphs of Christian faith, aged 54 years and 5 months.

In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], June 11th, of consumption, Miss Helen Northrup, daughter of N.W. Northrup, aged 16 y'rs.

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], June 12th, Phebe J. [Hotchkiss], wife of Calvin Hotchkiss, aged 42 years.

In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], June 3d, Mrs. Sally Darling, aged 78 years.

In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], June 12th, Mr. John Avery, aged 85 years.

In Laphamsville, Mich., june 3d, Carrie [Vaughn], only daughter of J.S. and C.C. Vaughan, aged 5 years, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Our dear little Carrie has gone to rest, / From sickness and sorrow she is free, / For Jesus took in his arms and blessed / Little ones, and said, Let them come unto me.

Sad and Fatal AccidentMr. Robert Hary, of Rome [Oneida Co., NY], wife and two children, one a boy of some eleven years, and the other a girl two years and three months old, on Saturday were on the way by packet on the Chenango Canal, to Binghamton. At Greene [Chenango Co., NY]\, they were on deck and shortly after leaving there, the boy, as directed, started to take his little sister down into the cabin, and stepping upon the stair took hold of the hatch, which moving caused him to stumble and fall to the bottom of the stairs with the child, falling upon the little creature so as to break her neck and cause immediate death.  Under this sad affliction the parents turned their steps homeward taking the cars at Chenango Forks fo Syracuse, arriving here at 8 o'clock in the evening, and stopping at the St. Charles for the Central Road midnight train which they took for home.  Syracuse Standard, June 11.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 27, 1866

Marriages

At the residence of Cyrus Blackman, June 24th, by Rev. L.D. Turner, Mr. Harrison Phillips to Miss Emma Monroe, both of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

At the residence of the bride's father, May 16th, by Re.v J. Kennedy, Mr. A.M. Wells, of Pharsalia, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], to Miss Gertrude E. Baker, of Howell, Mich.

In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], June 13th, by Rev. L.E. Spafford, Mr. A.A. Skinner, of Brooklyn, N.Y. to Miss L.S. Root, of Preston.

In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], June 14th, by Edgar Garret, Esq., Mr. Seneca Aylsworth to Miss Mary Davis.

In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], June 16th, by Rev. R.O. Beebe, Mr. John J. Kingsley to Miss Martha McDermott, both of Otselic.

Deaths

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], June 25th, Mr. Elnathan Terry, aged 71 years.

In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], June 14th, William [Groff], son of Daniel K. and Christiana Groff, aged 2 months and 2 days.

In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], June 23Id, Mrs. Lephe G. Riddell, mother of Mrs. H.P. Marion, of this village, aged 78 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], June 13th, Mr. Walter Brown, aged 68 years.

In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], Juen 13th, Mr. Roger Kinney, aged 60 years.

In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], June 1st, Mr. Alvin C. Hubbard, only son of Hon. Demas Hubbard, M.C., aged 37 years.

Death of Roswell K. Bourne

In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co., NY], June 23d, of cancer, Roswell K. Bourne, Esq., aged 53 years.

The sad though not wholly unexpected intelligence of the death of Roswell K. Bourne, reached this place on Saturday evening last.  He died at his home in Cincinnatus on that day.  The disease that proved fatal to his eminently useful and promising career, taking him off in the prime of life and in the midst of social and professional enjoyments, was a malignant cancer, which had for several years been preying upon his system.  Throughout his long and painful illness, though bound to earth by strong domestic ties and affections, as well as by the varied interests of an active and honorable life, he was remarkably patient and submissive to the will of Him who doeth all things well.  Mr. Bourne was a prominent Mason, and as such, widely known and respected by the Order, as he was by the community at large.  Numerous delegations from the various Lodges of the district attended his funeral, which was held on Monday, when he was buried with the honors and according to the ritual of the Fraternity.  His age was not far from 50.

Wednesday, October 13, 2021

Soldier's Letter, Robert A. Stanton, September 1863

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, September 30, 1863

Letter From Robert A. Stanton, Army of the Potomac

Headquarters at Army Corps Camp near Culpepper, Va. Sept. 18th, 1863

Messrs. Editors:  Day before yesterday the main body of the Army of the Potomac made an advance of about fifteen miles, now holding the country to the Rapidan, the limit of our recent cavalry reconnaissances.  The headquarters of our corps are just outside the village of Culpepper, a very pretty little place.  Although the effects of war are plainly discernible, the works of its cruel hand have apparently injured the village much less than most others through which we have passed. There are a couple of very fair churches and many fine dwellings some surrounded with beautiful hedges.  It must have been a very thrifty place.

In making this advance we have brought within our lines the residence of a very prominent Virginian who, I believe, has ever remained true to the Union.  Hon. John Minor Botts.  As our corps passed near his residence, I took the opportunity to call upon him.  I found him at home, in very good health, and just then in particularly good spirits.  I was very much pleased to be assured by him that he still remains true to his sentiments of yore.  Hale and hearty with a splendid farm and a large family including three comely daughters - very agreeable ladies, by the way - he seems enjoying life as well as possible under the circumstances. The Union army he welcomed right heartily and hoped we would be able soon to end the war.  He thought the visits of this army in this vicinity, had been very fashionable heretofore, and trusted that hereafter we would hold permanent possession of the country.  He was in the city of Richmond about a week since, and is very familiar with the condition of things there.  People in moderate circumstances can with the greatest difficulty procure the necessaries of life, Its luxuries they have long since dispensed with.  Mr. Botts made purchases of groceries, clothing, &c.  he bought 350 lbs of sugar for $700.  For four pair of shoes he paid $200.  He purchased hams, salt, &c, and for what he could buy in 1861 for $64.80, he paid over $1,800.  On my referring to his letters against the right and policy of secession, written about the time of the breaking out of the war he said "The predictions of that time, I believe, to be the realities of today."  The "would be Southern Confederacy" he compared to an apple that has lost so many slices by the Federal knife that nothing but a core remains, which is itself wormy, and is fast being picked in pieces by the Federal arms.  He thinks the majority of the Southern people have still great confidence in Jeff Davis, although many denounce him severely and attribute to his mismanagement all their recent disasters.  Of Alexander H. Stephens he says "He does not amount to a pinch of salt.  He has been unfaithful to every party and every principle he ever espoused.  It is his firm belief that it is the intention of the Southern leaders, if ever a separation should be effected, which he considers an impossibility, to make the South a monarchy of which Jeff Davis shall be Emperor.  He has fearlessly expressed his opinion of the folly and madness of secession and the hopelessness of their struggle to Confederate officers and prominent leaders of the South, and notwithstanding their many threats of hanging and the like, they have not dared to execute them.  He is anxious to visit Washington to see President Lincoln, with whom he is well acquainted, and I doubt not he will be permitted to do so.  To find such a man living near Richmond in the heart of Virginia, if not encouraging is at least very refreshing.

The military movements at this time are hard to fathom.  I cannot believe that the policy is "on to Richmond."  To hold the rebel army of Virginia north of Richmond for the present at least is all I believe that can be expected of the Army of the Potomac.  Unless, therefore, the enemy recross the Rapidan.  I do not think you will immediately hear of any very interesting news from this quarter.

Very truly your, Robt. A. Stanton

___________________________________________________

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, September 8, 1886

Death of Captain Stanton

In its appropriate department in today's Telegraph will be found the announcement of the death of Captain Robert A. Stanton, which occurred at his residence in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] at about ten o'clock on Sunday evening last.  His disease was paralysis.  Some two years since the Captain had a primary shock, from the effects of which he very nearly recovered by rest and a total abstinence from business at the sea side and at the Berkshire hills  He returned to his office and his life work in the fall, and though careful of his habits of labor, he seemed to be as efficient in his practice as before his attack.  In June last he again felt the hand of disease, which, though gradual in its approach, admonished him to again seek rest and seclusion, which he did upon his father-in-law's farm in Oxford.  He grew worse so rapidly, however, that he returned to his home, and from the time he entered it it was apparent to the eye of his physician that it was for the last time, for his disease bore the marks of fatality from that hour.  The best and most distinguished specialists from New York and Philadelphia were called for consultation, and all agreed that there were no hopes of recovery, and the efforts of the attending physician were directed to ward alleviating pain and avoiding suffering. To this end the operation of tracheotomy was performed on Sunday morning by Dr. J.D. Bryant, of New York in the presence of Drs. Avery and Brooks. The operation was a most successful one, and served to allay his sufferings by giving freedom of respiration to the last.  He retained his consciousness fully until a half hour preceding his death, and during the last week he was unusually clear in his mind and gave careful and intelligent thought to business matters of importance, expressing his desires with clearness upon those to whom he entrusted their execution.

Captain Stanton was a native of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], being a son of the late Nathan D. Stanton, one of our earliest and most respected citizens.  He received his education at our academy and other village schools.  The breaking out of the rebellion in 1861 found him a law student in the office of the late Horace Packer at Oxford.  Fired with patriotic impulse he in company with one Captain Baker, Harry Bloom and M.C. Griswold, recruited a company in this and adjoining towns in May of that year, which was to be attached to the Sickles brigade. Baker was sent forward with a detachment of men, but through his incompetency or neglect, the men were allowed to drift away. When young Stanton arrived, he expressed his disgust at the failure to carry his company into service intact, and united himself with those of his comrades who desired to [unite] with the 74th regiment as privates, mustering in July 6, 1861, entering the service he served with such signal bravery as to attract the attention of his superiors and rapid promotion was accorded him, until in December 1862 he was commissioned first lieutenant.  At the second battle of Bull Run he was wounded in the second finger of the left hand which was amputated.  On the 9th of March, 1863, he was commissioned captain of company C, 74th N.Y.V., in which capacity he served until he was mustered out with his regiment, June 26, 1864. During his entire service he was conspicuous for his unwavering loyalty and daring bravery, receiving again and again the commendations of his superior officers.

At the close of the war he returned to this village and resumed the study of the law, and was soon admitted to the bar.  He at once entered upon practice and during the years that followed he was peculiarly distinguished for his zeal and fidelity in the cause of his clients.  In civil as in military life his energy and perseverance was proverbial, and it received deserved recognition in the success that attended him and the confidence bestowed upon him by the entire community.  He had been in practice but a short time when he was elected justice of the peace.  In November 1868 he was elected district attorney, the difficult duties of which office he performed with signal satisfaction to the people.  Three years ago his name was prominently mentioned as a candidate for county judge.  He was a trustee of the academy and union school, and also of the congregational church.  He was  a member of the state bar association, and of the county as well.  In that of common with other soldiers he longed for the touch of elbow in civil life, and helped organize and was the commander of the first G.A.R. post in this county, no. 13, organized in 1868.  In September 1868 he married the only daughter of Nathan Pendleton, of Oxford, a most estimable lady, who survives him with four children, two sons and two daughters.

In social life, he was genial, whole souled and hearty, and as a citizen he never failed to perform his duty as he understood it, oftentimes at the sacrifice of long existing friendships.  In the home circle, however, he was best known and appreciated, and in the midst of his family he was always happy and contented.  For his wife and children no duty was irksome or sacrifice too great.

In the death of Captain Stanton the country has lost a patriotic and brave defender, our village a high minded and upright citizen and well-wisher and liberal contributor to its advancement and progress, the bar a brilliant, earnest and honest advocate, and the family circle a doting and loving father and an affectionate husband.  His example was one worthy of all emulation, and his memory will long remain green in the hearts of all our citizens, who will unite in loving, tender sympathy to the stricken family in their great bereavement.  The funeral will take palce from his late residence today (Wednesday) at 2:30 p.m. and at the Congregational church at three p.m.

Vital Records, Afton, NY, 1880-1882

 Weekly Press, Afton, NY, May 6, 1880

Married:  TARBELL - ROUNDS:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], April 27th, by Rev. D.N. Grummon, Charles E. Tarbell and Ellen J. Rounds.

Weekly Press, Afton, NY, May 20, 1880

Marriage of two mutes:  David Beers of Montana, N.J., and Welthy L. Lyon, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], were united in holy matrimony by Rev. E.T. Jacobs, at his residence on the morning of May 19.

Afton Enterprise, Afton, NY, December 15, 1881

Died:  JONES:  Mrs. Jewett Jones, wife of Henry Jones of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th, aged 53 years.

Died:  YEOMANS:  Mrs. Esther A. Yeomans, of Ouaquaga [Broome Co.., NY], on the 11, aged 58 years.

Died:  SNITHLER:  Mrs. Helen Snithler of North Sanford [Broome Co., NY], on the 7th, aged 58 years.

November 2d, Mrs. A.J. Johnston swore out a warrant for the arrest of her husband on the charge of drunkenness.  He had a hearing before Squire Swift who placed him under $1,000 bail and to appear at the next Court of Sessions held at Norwich [Chenango co., NY].  E.M. Johnston went the prisoner's bail and he was allowed liberty once more.  Last Saturday E.M. surrendered the bail and the prisoner was taken to Norwich where he is at present confined.  Since the above was put in type Johnston has returned home.

Tuesday evening of this week the many friends of Rev. J.F. Williams and his estimable wife made them a very enjoyable surprise party and tin wedding, it being the tenth anniversary of their marriage.  The bride and groom have changed somehwhat during the past ten years and so has the wearing apparel compared with the present day.  Elder Williams is very fond of white vests, and would wear one of them, notwithstanding the urgent request of his friends to "never mind it."  The evening was passed very pleasantly and all went home feeling convinced that Elder Williams' is the place to go to have a good time.  Rev. C. A. Stone made a few remarks which were responded to Rev. Williams.  A sumptuous repast was served which did ample justice to the ladies who prepared the same.  A number of presents were presented.

Weekly Press, Afton, NY, November 29, 1882

Jacob Houck died at the residence of Robert Searles on Friday last, at 11 p.m., of consumption.  Mr. Houck came to this vicinity a few years ago, from Schoharie Co. [NY], and purchased a farm near North Afton [Chenango Co., NY], where he resided until about two years ago, when he disposed of his farm and removed to this village [Afton, Chenango Co., NY].  He has been steadily failing in health for a long time, and his death has been for some time expected.  Mr. H., during his residence among us earned an enviable reputation as an honorable citizen, and he was one whom we could illy spare form our community.  

The trial of the Dutton divorce case before Judge Maynard as Referee, was had at Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, of last week.  Many of our people were in attendance. The evidence was all taken and the matter adjourned till early in Jan. at Sidney, when it is to be argued by the respective attorneys and submitted to the Referee for his decision.

Weekly Press, Afton, NY, December 13, 1882

Died: Mrs. Schrom died at Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Tuesday night and was buried Wednesday.

Weekly Press, Afton, NY, December 27, 1882

Died:  Avery Landers, a prominent resident of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], died last Saturday, from a severe attack of erysipelas.

Jas. K. Jones, of Greene [Chenango Co., NY], deserted his wife Dec. 12, and is alleged to have eloped with a young woman by the name of Rosa Hindsman.  Mr. J. is reported to be in a very destitute condition.

Tuesday, October 12, 2021

Vital Records, Norwich, NY, May 1866

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 23, 1866

Marriages

In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], May 17th, by Rev. L.D. Turner, Mr. John H. Baker, of Oswego [Oswego Co., NY], to Mrs. Roxy A. Baker, of Plymouth.

In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], april 10th, by Rev. A. Ensign, Mr. Edwin Crozier, to Miss Annett Sanford, both of Pitcher.

May 1st, by Rev. J.W. Barr, Mr. Hiland L. Bently, of Sandgate, Vermont to Miss Louisa V. Norton, of German [Chenango Co., NY].

In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], May 8th, by Rev. J.W. Barr, Mr. Alonzo Blackman of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Kate M. Totman, of Pharsalia.

In Desmoines, Iowa, March 28th, by Rev. J.A. Nash, P.F. Bartle, Esq., formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Lide Bausman, of the former place.

Deaths

At the Chenango House, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 21st, of typhoid fever, Mr. Stephen E. Avery, aged 48 y'rs.

In Lansing, Mich., May 18th, Mr. Richard R. Carpenter, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], aged 30 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], May 17th, Mrs. Mercy Wright, aged 78 years.

In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], May 14th, Lizzie [Lyon], only daughter of the late George M. Lyon, aged 4 years and 2 months.

In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], April 21st, Sarah [Post], consort of Dea. Levi Post, in the 68th year of her age.

In Brookfield [Madison Co., NY], May 6th, Jennie [Quivey], only daughter of M. S. Quivey, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], aged 6 years.

In Salem, Oregon, March 28th, Mr. Judson H. Stark, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], aged 32 years.

Telegraph & Chronicle, Norwich, NY, May 30, 1866

Marriages

LAMB - KART:  In Boston on the 21st inst. by the Rev. Wm. H. Babcock, Wm. H. Lamb, of this place [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] to Mattie W. Hart, of Boston, Mass.

WEDGE - TAYLOR:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d May, by Rev. L.E. Stafford, Edgar P. Wedge of Windsor, Broome Co. to Eliza J. Taylor of Oxford.

OGDEN - SMITH:  At the Baptist Parsonage in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] by the same, May 23d, H.B. Ogden of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] to G.A. Smith of Oxford.

BAILEY - SKILLIN:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th of April, at the house of the bride's father, by the Rev. R. Scott, James G. Bailey to Martha J. Skillin, both of Greene.

KNOWLES - RIDER:  In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], May 23d, by J.H. Stanbro Esq., Joseph Knowles of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], to Catharine J. Rider, of Otselic.

WADE - DEMONEY:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 16th, by Rev. R. A. Patterson, Wm. B. Wade, to Margaret A. Demoney, of Masonville [Delaware Co., NY].

Deaths

STARR:  In Salem, Oregon, March 26th, Judson H. Starr, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], aged 32 years.

MYGATT:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst., Caroline [Mygatt], wife of Wm. mygatt, aged 63? years.

LOWNSBERY:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst. Catharine S. [Lownsbery], wife of J.D. Lownsbery, aged 58 years.

CHURCH:  In No. Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], May 12th, Catherine E. Church, wife of A.W. Church, aged 42 years.

HUMPHREY:  In Bennettsville [Chenango Co., NY], May 18, Emeline S. Humphrey, wife of Charles M. Humphrey, aged 49 years.

A Christian mother.  She lived beloved and respected, and died lamented.  On her tombstone could truthfully be inscribed, "The heart of her husband confided in her."  The Church loses a faithful member, who always filled her place and never gave them cause to mourn.  The family looses a wife and mother who lived to make home happy.  The S. School a faithful teacher who lived as well as taught.  She suffered much in her last sickness but endured patiently as seeing him who is invisible. The parting scene was one that surviving friends will long remember.  It was the "chamber where the Christian meets his fate, quite on the verge of heaven."  Thus star by star declines, / Till all are passed away, / As morning high and higher shines, / To pure and perfect day / Nor sink those stars in empty night, / But hide themselves in heaven's own light"  E.T.J.

Lieutenant Edwin O. Gibson Honored

Of the many favors bestowed by the War Department on deserving soldiers, none is more merited than the conferring of the rank of Second Lieutenant in the 17th U.S. Infantry on Edwin O. Gibson.  He is the son of Dr. Stanford C. Gibson, of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], and entered the 114th Regiment in 1862, as Second Lieutenant.  He was soon advanced to the grade of First Lieutenant, and afterwards commissioned Captain, but being absent on detached service on account of disability from wounds received, he was never mustered in that grade.  He was a passenger on the ill-fated John Warner, captured by the enemy on the Red River in 1864.  the boat was destroyed, and he wounded and a prisoner, remained in Confederate hands until the general cartel restored him to liberty.  From that date until his muster out, he was on detached service at Hart's Island, New York. A few weeks ago he received his commission from the President as Second lieutenant in the Regular Army, and from what we know of his sterling worth, we congratulate the people of Chenango on his preferment, and feel assured that their representative officer in the standing army will serve them with credit in war as well as in peace.  In speaking of Lieutenant G, the History of the 114th Regiment says, "He was a general favorite among the officers of his regiment and in fact, his open hearted manliness will win him friends wherever he goes."  He is at present on recruiting service at Syracuse, N.Y.

Monday, October 11, 2021

Vital Records, Norwich, NY, May 1866

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 2, 1866

Marriages

At the residence of the bride's uncle, Chas. E. Brown, in New York, on Tuesday, April 24th, by Rev. Joseph T. Duryea, Mr. Winfield Poillon, of New york, to Miss Harriet P. Barnes, daughter of the late Hon. Samuel H. Barnes, of Norwich, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY].

In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], April 14th, by Rev. E. Curtis, Mr. Wesley Washburne, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Melunter C. Baker, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

In Susquehanna Co. Pa., April 13th, by Rev. G.H. Blakeslee, Mr. Alonzo S. Cahoon to Miss Orrilla J. Tucker, both of Norwich, N.Y. [Chenango Co.].

In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], April 26th, by Rev. E.N. Ruddock, Lieut. Lucius Crumb, of Preston [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Hattie E. [Powell], only daughter of Maj. L.T. Powell, of East Pharsalia.

In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], April 11th, by Rev. J. Storrs, Mr. Philip Belenger? to Miss Amelia Finom, both of Otselic.

In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], April 24th, by Rev. H. Garlick, Mr. Charles H. Watrous to Miss Mary M. Allen, all of Greene.

Deaths

In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], April 16th, Betsey [Medbury], wife of Harris Medbury, aged 73 years and 1 month.

In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], suddenly, April 29th, Mr. Urian D. Bassett, aged 62 years.

In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], April 24th, of consumption, George W. Chamberlain, Esq., aged about 40 years.

In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], April 17th, Lucy [Odell], wife of James A. Odell, aged 61 years.

In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], April 19th, Mrs. Hester Ketchum, aged 14 years and 7 months.

In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], April 21st, Mr. Everett Baldwin, aged 76 years.

In Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], April 19th, Dr. Edward Brooks, son of Moses Brooks, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 28 years.

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], April 9th, Mr. William Webb, aged 79 years.

In German [Chenango Co., NY], April 18th, Netty [Phillips], daughter of Frances M. and the late Peter J. Phillips, aged 4 years.

In Unionville, Lake Co., Ohio, March 21st, Julia [Dickinson], wife of B.W. Dickinson, aged 53 years, formerly of Preston in this County [Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 9, 1866

Marriages

In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 8th, by Rev. W.N. Cobb, Mr. Justin W. Beebe, of East Hamilton [Madison Co., NY], to Miss Emma J. Durham, of Norwich.

In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], April 20th, by Rev. R. A Paterson, Mr. Peter Banks of Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY], to Mrs. Mary E. Waters of Norwich.

In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], May 6th, by John S. Baldwin, Esq., Col. David B. Wakeley to Olive [Johnson], only daughter of Kimball Johnson, Esq., of Otselic [Chenango Co., NY].

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], April 26th, by Rev. E.H. Payson, Doct. William H. Tanner, of Quebec, La. to Miss Arsa M. York, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], April 26th, by Rev. E. Curtis, Maj. F Leinate Briggs of Eaton [Madison Co., NY], to Miss Jennie V. Combs of Sherburne.

Deaths

In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], April 17th, Ann Maria [McCall], wife of James A. McCall, aged 50 years.

In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], May 4th, Charles H. [Smith], son of Frederick H. Smith, aged 3 years.

In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], April 6th, Mary Blanche Shepard, aged 5 years and 11 months.

In Vineland, N.J., April 29th, of consumption, Mrs. Leonora Clitz Sexton, wife of Dea. Luke Sexton, formerly of Plymouth, N.Y., aged 58 years.

In Washington, D.C., April 29th, James [McKim], youngest child of Dr. S.A. H. and Caroline L. McKim, aged 1 year.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 16, 1866

Marriages

In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], May 8th, at the residence of the bride, by Rev. D.D. Brown, Mr. Heth Young to Miss Mary Brown, both of Plymouth.

In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], May 2d, by Rev. J. Storrs, Mr. Dwight Hall of Earlville [Madison County, NY], to Miss Hattie Boynton of Smyrna.

In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], April 28th, by Warren Gray, Esq., Mr. George W. Stringham of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], to Miss Lovina W. Webb of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY].

In South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], May 1st, by Rev. D. V. Bowen, Mr. William C. Potter to Miss Mary E. Warner, both of South Otselic.

Deaths

In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 2d, Mrs. Mary Parker, widow of the late Sylvanus Parker, aged 77 years.

In New Berlin [Chenango co., NY], April 19th, of diptheria, Mr. John W. Mathewson, aged 37 years, 8 months and 11days.

In South Macon, Ill., Aril 10th, Lizzie A. [Warner], wife of Henry O. Warner, formerly of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], aged 30 years.

The remains of Dwight Parce, who went out with the 114th Regiment, as Sutler, was taken prisoner at Brashear city, and died in Texas, in the fall of 1863, have been recovered, and were last week brought to Otselic [Chenango Co., NY] where his family resides and re-interred.

Sunday, October 10, 2021

Vital Records, Afton, NY, April 1880

 Home Sentinel, Afton, NY, April 9, 1880

Miss Mary A. Swift died at O.K. Swift's residence, in Nineveh [Broome Co., NY], last Saturday, in the 75th year of her age.

At the residence of Wm. S. Landers, Esq., on he 31st of March, 1880, Fred Grover and Emily P. Landers were joined in the holy bonds of wedlock by Rev. E.T. Jacobs. The citizens of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], from an intimate acquaintance with these two young peoople, will join us in the decision that this is a happy union, and we all wish them much joy.

On April 2d, 1880, Homer T. Nichols died in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], of inflammatory congestion aged 8 years.  After the death of the child, it was thought best to hold a post-mortem examination, as he had met with a severe bruise from being run over by a wagon about six months ago.  Upon examination, it was found that the heart case had adhered to the anterior to the ribs and also to the lungs, and that a part of the heart was found to be apparently perished away. The lungs were found to be badly congested and but a small part of them that would float.  From all the showing of the case, no doubt the little boy was a great sufferer and found a blessing in the rest of death.

On Friday morning of last week, W.G. Nearing, of New Lisbon [Otsego Co., NY], was killed by a tree which he had cut, falling and striking him on the head and crushing him to the ground.

"Was the child murdered?" is the general query upon hearing the story that Mr. John Van Loan is telling to his neighbors.  It seems that Mr Van loan, who resides between Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] and Sidney Plains [Delaware Co., NY], was called away from home one day last week and was prevented from returning till along towards midnight. The night was very dark, and just after he had ascended the hill near the residence of Milton Johnstone, and when near the town line that divides Bainbridge from Sidney, his horse shied at something and on turning his dark lantern in a opposite direction, he beheld a woman very shabbily dressed, with a young infant in her arms beneath her tattered shawl. The child screeched and made such a noise at this instant that he stopped his horse and watched the retreating figure for some distance until it vanished in the darkness.  His surmises were that no woman would be carrying a babe at that time of night along the street unless for some evil purpose.  He has learned nothing more concerning the strange incident nor who the woman could have been.

Weekly Press, Afton, NY, April 22, 1880

Allen - Doolittle:  At Harpursville [Broome Co., NY], Wednesday, April 14th, by the Rev. A.W. Cornell, Bennett B. Allen and Miss Nancy Doolittle, both of Harpursville.

Phelps - Dykeman:  At the M.E. Parsonage Saturday, April 10th by the Rev. N.J. Hawley, Mr. Oliver D. Phelps of Afton [Chenango Co., NY] and Mrs. Frances Dykeman of Colesville [Broome Co., NY].

Mrs. J.B. Kirkhuff

The tragic death of Mrs. Kirkhuff has cast a gloom over the whole community, and all hearts sympathize with the afflicted family in their great distress.  Mrs. Kirkhuff was a cultured and refined lady, modest and unassuming in her manners.  Her loss will be deeply felt in the family, where she was a faithful and affectionate wife and mother  and in the church, of which she was a consistent and devout member.  But it is our comfort that we sorrow not as those who have no hope. She sleeps in Jesus. The weary head and aching heart are forever at rest.  Her ransomed spirit is in joy and felicity in the Paradise of God.  Cheered by this hope, our grief for her loss loses its sting, and it is not so hard for us to say "God's Will be done."

Vital Records, Oxford, NY, November 1865

 Oxford Times, November 1, 1865

Marriages

At Gospel Hill [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 20th, by Rev. P. McNulty, at the residence of the bride, Mr. Chauncey Wade to Miss May Ann Brabazon, both of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult., by Rev. L.E. Spafford, Mr. Gurion E. Grannis of Preston [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Mary E. Sackett of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 18th, by Rev. W. G. Queal, Mr. Harvey V. Schenck, of Cherry Ridge, Pa., to Miss Laura Smith of Guilford.

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th Oct. b Rev. L.E. Spafford, Mr. Hiram Rorapaugh to Miss Frank Norris, both of Smithville.

At Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY] on 22d ult. by Rev. P.S. Worden, Mr. Henry Winton to Miss Harriet Gross, both of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

Deaths

In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on 18th ult. Mr. Ira Manning, aged 58 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th ult. Mary [Wheeler], wife of Mr. Billings Wheeler, aged 24? years.

Oxford Times, November 15, 1865

Marriages

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY] on the 1st inst. by Rev. R .Scott, Mr. Charles S. Barre of Norwich, to Miss Frank A. Hotchkiss of Smithville.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] Oct. 4, by Rev. S. Scoville, Adam Mower of Greene [Chenango Co., NY] to Elizabeth Martin of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].

Deaths

In Guilford[Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 20, Mary [Hovey], wife of Mr. Ransom Hovey, aged 25 years.

In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst. Mary E. [Brown], daughter of Mr. Dudley Brown, aged 18 years.

In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on 28th Oct. Mrs. Olive Briggs, aged 86 years.

An Octogenarian

We had a pleasant call one day last week from Mr. Gamaliel Scribner, of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], now 82 years of age, who for the first time in his long life witnessed the operation of steam printing.  It is 75 years ago last May since Mr. S. passed through this place with his parents, to seek a home in "the West."  They came from Ballston, Saratoga co., and passed down the Susquehanna to Unadilla and up the Unadilla river ot New Berlin in a canoe, and there Mr. S. has resided ever since, on the same farm.  Some of the apple trees, planted by the Indians, found growing there in 1790, budded and blossomed last season.  Th first flour obtained by the family after they arrived at New Berlin, was from wheat taken by boat to a mill at Binghamton.  There were no roads or dwellings at that time between the two places. A few families settled about the same time at Butternuts, and a Frenchman named De Ville built a mill there. The Scribners spent three or four days in cutting a road through to that mill.  Mr. S. may live to see a train of cars pass near the same road,  Cooperstown Journal

Oxford Times, November 22, 1865

Marriages

In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst. by Rev. I.B. Hyde, Mr. Geo. W. Payne to Miss Mary Jane Copley, both of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

In Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], on the 11th ult. by Rev. F. Kidder, Mr. L. Frank Miles of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Mary E. Bump of Unadilla.

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult. by Rev. A.S. Yale, Mr. Lawrence Newton to Miss Maria Smith, both of Bainbridge.

Deaths

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst. Mr. Oliver Jennison, aged 71 years.

In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst. Mr. Henry M. Watkins, aged 34 years.

At Martinsburg Hospital, Va. Loren D. Newel, Member of Co. B, 114th Reg. aged 23 years.

In Bainbridge, Oct. 28th, LaMott Bissill [Yale], son of Ozias B. Yale, aged 17 years.

Killed by a Tree

Leonard Ingham, aged 59 years, while employed Thursday last in felling trees on the lands of Edwin Patterson, on Fitch Hill, about four miles above this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], was struck and killed by a falling tree.  The tree had lodged in its fall upon a smaller one, and in the efforts to trim and dislodge it, the tree struck Mr. Ingham, breaking some of his bones, causing internal injuries from which death ensured in about an hour.  Mr. Patterson immediately called assistance, and removed the sufferer to the nearest house, but his injuries were too great for medical relief.  The family of the deceased, desire us to express on their behalf, their thanks to their neighbors and friends, for their thoughtful kindness and sympathy in their sudden affliction.

Oxford Times, November 29, 1865

Marriages

In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY]. on the 21st inst. by Rev. J.L. Jones, Mr. Adin Deming to Mrs. Helen A. Talman, all of New Berlin.

In Ripon, Wis. on the 2d inst. by Rev. F.W. Cook, Mr. Wm. H. St. John of Cohocton, N.Y. [Steuben Co.] to Miss Elizabeth Bishop, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th inst. by Rev. E. Curtis Mr. Charles H. Ingham of Rome [Oneida Co., NY], to Miss Julia E. Balcom of Sherburne.

Deaths

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st inst. Mrs. Elizabeth Maynard, wife of Capt. Silas Maynard, aged 76 years.  Mrs. Maynard was born in Richmond, New Hampshire, but most of her life was spent in this and adjoining counties.  Amiable in her disposition and kind in her deportment, she seemed the confidence and esteem of all who found her acquaintance.  Retiring and domestic in her habits, her virtues and her influence were most manifest within the circle of her own family.  For more than half a century, she has been a consistent and exemplary member of the Presbyterian Chruch.  Her last sickness, which was painful and protracted was borne with Christian patience and fortitude. To her, death was disrobed of its terrors. she watched its approach with that calmness and composure which is the legitimate result of a true and living faith.  After a season of most excruciating suffering, she quietly fell asleep in Jesus, to be awakened no more until the morning of the Resurrection.  "Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.".

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], suddenly, on the 18th inst., Miss Mary R. Phelps, aged 47 years.

In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., Mrs. Eliza Rathbone, aged 33 years.

In Lansingburg, N.Y. [Rensselear Co.] at teh residence of James Wood, Esq., Mrs. Lucretia Balcom, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]\, aged 60 years.

In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst., Mr. Heman Hill, aged 65? years.

In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th inst., Sarah [Coates], wife of Mr. Harris Coates, aged 71 years.