Vital Records, Norwich, NY, April 1871

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 5, 1871

Marriages

SPENCER - FOSTER:  In Rockdale [Chenango Co. NY], March 22d, by Rev. J.H. Morse, Mr. Hiram E. Spencer of Centre Village [Broome Co. NY], to Miss Mary A. Foster, of Rockdale.

BUSH - WOODWARD:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], March 21st, by Rev. Geo. D. Horton, Mr. Charles E. Bush, of Phelps City, Atchinson Co., MO., to Miss Fannie C. Woodward of Bainbridge.

Death

IRELAND:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], April 1st, Clarissa [Ireland], wife of Harvey Ireland, aged 54 years.

Hon. Joel Burdick of Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY], died at his residence in that town on Monday morning, March 27th, of inflammation of the lungs, at the age of sixty-six years.  Mr. Burdick has been for many years one of the leading citizens of his town and county.  As a citizen and neighbor, he drew to him many warm personal friends, and in fact had no enemies.  His influence in his town enabled him to promote the happiness and prosperity of all, by the amicable arrangement of all disputes among his neighbors.  During his long residence in the town, he had filled acceptably the offices of Supervisor and Justice of the Peace, and in 1844 he was elected Member of Assembly from Chenango County and held a seat in the session of 1845.  As a politician, Mr. Burdick was untiring, but thoroughly honest in his political convictions.  Admirably qualified as a political organizer, he was always the leader of the Democratic party in his town.  At the commencement of the Midland Railroad project, he warmly advocated the claims of the great enterprise and aided in bonding the town of Linklaen for it.  He was appointed one of the Railroad Commissioners of his town, which position he held at the time of his death.  His death was sudden and unexpected, but we feel that when the death angel shall summon us hence, if we can point to a life as blameless and well spent as his was, all will be well.  Rev. A.G. Clark, of DeRuyter, preached the funeral discourse to a large congregation at Benedict's Settlement Church, on Wednesday, and the members present testified to the high appreciation in which all held the lamented dead.

As we are going to press, a letter is placed in our hands dated at Saginaw City, Mich. March 25th, containing very painful intelligence from the family of Mr. Horace Dennison, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].  His youngest son Frank [Dennison], met with a shocking and fatal accident about noon of that day.  It seems that the two sons of Mr. Dennison, Charles and Frank, were out in a boat on the river with two other boys on a hunting excursion.  It was known to the parents that the boys were out rowing in a boat but not that they had a borrowed gun. The gun was at half cock, and while one of the boys was preparing to shoot at a mark it was accidently discharged, the charge passing so near Charley's head as to tear off some of his hair and cap and leaving him deaf in one ear.  It then entered Frank's temple, penetrating the skull and letting out his brains, killing him instantly.  Sherburne News

We learn from the Bloomington (Ill.) papers that Mr. Albert Tyrrell, formerly of this place [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], was run over and killed by the street cars, in that place, on the 23d of March.  It seems, from the evidence before the coroner's jury, that he was compelled to hurry in order to get aboard.  The speed is usually slackened at this crossing, but in this case it was not.  He caught hold of the front handle and having a market basket on his arm it struck the corner of the car, when he lost his hold and fell on the track, the truck passing over his body from the shoulder obliquely across.  His coat was torn to pieces and the body, of course, terribly crushed; the skin was not broken as no blood could be seen.  He lived but a few moments and spoke but once. The conductor thought the car was running at the rate of two miles per hour.  Judging from the evidence, there is no blame attached to the railroad employees, the whole thing being purely accidental.  The Leader says, "Mr. T. was honest and industrious, and was very much respected by all who knew him.  His sudden death has cast a gloom over a large circle of friends who feel and deplore his loss deeply.  He was a genial and kindhearted gentleman, an agreeable neighbor and an affectionate husband and father.  The bereaved wife feels the loss keenly and is almost distracted with grief."  Mr Tyrrell was for many years a resident of this place and was much respected by all who knew him.  He left for the west about ten years ago, and as will be seen by the above, had won the confidence of all in his new home.  His sad death is a severe blow to his family and friends.

Mr. Stephen Avery, father of Hosea W. Avery, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], died at North Stonington, Connecticut, on the 16th of March, at the advanced age of 85 years.  Mr. Avery was for many years a resident of Norwich, in fact passed all the active part of his life here.  He was a life-long Democrat, but although attached to the principles of his party, was unobtrusive in his views, conceding to all the right to hold different opinions.  His death marks the removal of another of the old pioneer landmarks and speaks to us of the long ago when he first made his home in the beautiful Chenango Valley.  His many friends and acquaintances unite with the afflicted relatives in mourning his loss.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, April 5, 1871

Deaths

ROOT:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], on 3d inst. Mr. Andrew J. Root, aged 40 years.

CARHART:  In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], March 28th, Mrs. Sarah Carhart, aged 74 years. 

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 6, 1871

Marriages

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], at the house of Mr. J.T. Davidson, on the 29th ult. by Rev. Dr. F. Rogers, Mr. Theodore Hays, of Great Bend, Pa., to Miss Eva A. Loomis of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY].

At the residence of the officiating clergyman, on the 19th ult. by Rev D.T. Ross, Mr. Gilbert Randall to Miss Stella Brown, both of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY].

Death

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], suddenly, on the 3d inst., Mr. Theron Grant, aged 56 years.

Vital Records, Chenango Co. NY, March 1871 (concluded)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, nY, March 29, 1871

Marriages

WETMORE - POLLARD: In Utica [Oneida Co. NY], March 21st, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. Charles A. Wetmore, of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Addie S. Pollard, of Seneca Falls [Seneca Co. NY].

CHAPMAN - TAYLOR:  At the Congregational parsonage, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 6th, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. Levi H. Chapman to Miss Betsey Taylor, both of Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY].

BRADLEY - BEARDSLEY:  In Oxford [ Chenango Co. NY], March 28th, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. Henry M. Bradley, of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Anna M. Beardsley, of Oxford.

BLACKMAN - ALDRICH:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], March 15th, by Rev. L.W. Kemper, Mr. Simon Blackman, of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Lorinda A. Aldrich, of Smyrna.

FLINT - MATTHEWS:  In McGrawville [Allegany Co. NY] Jan. 3, by Rev. L.D. Turner, Mr. Lysander Flint of German [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Sarah Matthews, of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY].

BAILEY - BOWEN:  In German [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 26th, by Rev. L.D. Turner, Mr. John C. Bailey to Miss Mary G. Bowen, both of German.

SMITH - SMITH:  In German [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 23d, by Rev. L.D. Turner, Mr. Harry H. Smith of Willet [Cortland Co. NY], to Miss Frances A. Smith, of German.

HOLLENBECK - TORRY:  At the same time and place, by the same, Mr. George R. Hollenbeck of Greene [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Ann E. Torry, of German [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

GIBSON:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 12th, Mrs. Mary Gibson, aged 86 years.

SMITH:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], March 16th, of cancer, Mrs. Nathaniel Smith, aged 45 years.

LIGHT:  In Morris [Otsego Co. NY], March 28th, Lucinda P. [Light], wife of William B. Light, aged 40 years.

HUGHSON:  In Three Grove, Nebraska, March 7th, of typhoid fever and congestion of the lungs, Maria A. [Hughson], wife of Amos Hughson, aged 40 years and 5 months, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

SMITH:  In Scranton, Pa. Dec. 10th, of whooping cough and inflammation on the lungs, Willis Emery [Smith], youngest child of Charles V. and Jane E. Smith, aged 2 years, 2 months, 1 day.

SEXTON:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], March 14th, Mr. Frederick Sexton, aged 90 years and 3 months, one of the early settlers of Sherburne.

The venerable Frederick Sexton, one of the early settlers of Sherburne, died on the 14th, at the extraordinary age of 90 years.  Mr. S. during the first years of his residence on West Hill kept the Inn of the destined village.  He was an intelligent citizen and took a lively interest in passing events.  He was an ardent friend of those veteran journalists Thurlow Weed and the late Elias P. Pellett, and was a patron and reader of the Albany Journal and the Chenango Telegraph, from their origin until his death.  He was a zealous advocate of the old Whig party, and a live man at elections, never failing to cast his vote.  He enjoyed uniform good health, and up to the week previous to his death was as sprightly as any young man, and he never required the aid of a physician until his last sickness, the result of regular and temperate habits.  He was respected as a good man, and many tears were dropped as his remains were consigned to their final resting place.

Mr. Sexton was about the last of the early residents of West Hill.  He was the contemporary of Deacon Adams, Judge Tilly Lynde, Dr. Farrell, Rev. Joshua Knight, the Guthries, Sanford, Hubbard, Maj. Dixon, and others.  The children of some of these are living, but the original pioneers have all either removed or died.  James Thompson, now in Ohio, is the only one we now remember as living.  Mr. Sexton lived to a greater age than any of his early associates, and now he is gathered to his fathers.  Telegraph, last week

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, March 29, 1871

Marriages

SPAULDING - COVILLE:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], on 31st ult, by Rev. T.P. Halsted, Mr. E. Judson Spaulding of Owego [Tioga Co. NY], to Miss Libbie Coville of Oxford.

ALBY - STOWELL:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], on 22d, by the same, Mr. Allen Alby, of Eaton [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Josephine M. Stowell, of Madison [Madison Co. NY].

Deaths

DANIELS:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY], on 6th, Phebe [Daniels], wife of Alfred Daniels, aged 75 years.

WOOD:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 22d, Mr. Ehraim Wood, aged 67 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 30, 1871

Marriage

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], on the 23d inst. by Rev. Jas C. Nightingale, Mr. Thomas Gordon of Brooklyn, N.Y. to Miss Jennie Graham, of Smithville.

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], on the 20th inst. Freddie M. [Olin], son of Frederick Olin, aged 10 months and 20 days.

In Triangle [Broome Co. NY], on the 17th inst. Sophronia H. [Olmstead], aged 38 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], on the 18th inst. Mr. Reuben Davis, aged 90 years.

Children Kidnapped

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, March 29, 1871

We are informed that late Monday morning, while two of Mr. Jacob Arver's children, aged about eight and ten years, and two young sons of Mr. Styles were on their way to school, they were met at corner of Walnut and Main Street, by a four-horse team of the Gypsie style, which contained three men, two women and a little girl.  These men hailed the boys and asked them to come to the wagon.  The boys being timid did not go but being coaxed and offered money if they would go near the wagon, did so, and were immediately seized, one by each man, and one by the women, and forced into the tightly covered wagon.  The boys' arms and necks show marks made in their attempt to get away.  The team was then driven at full speed toward Owego [Tioga Co. NY], which place it reached just as the Day express east, reached the depot.

During the entire journey the boys were closely watched, and the whole wagon being covered in the usual Gypsie style, there was no chance for escape, and frequent threats were made to kill them or tie their hands and feet, if they attempted to make noise or get away.  They were asked if their parents used them well.  When they answered in the affirmative, they said they would use them just as well as their parents.  On the way to Owego one of the little Aryer boys displayed his shrewdness by spending his time, when not watched in cautiously picking off the buttons that held the canvas cover to the wagon box, hoping when the wagon should stop, to have made an opening large enough to get out.  On reaching Owego, the man and one woman got out to get some provisions at a store, and the other woman was left to watch the boys.  This was the chance and the boys all jumped through the hole in the canvas and made for the depot.  The woman gave the alarm, but before the men could come to her assistance, the boys had reached the depot, and the kidnappers were probably afraid to pursue. The boys were allowed to ride home on the train, reaching here on the express. the children not returning from school at the dinner hour, the school was visited, when it was discovered they had not been there.  Just as the search commenced, the boys came running home, not yet over their fright.

They said the men were dark complexioned, and were dressed, we should judge from the description, in something of the old Continental style.  The women were also very dark, and wore long, straight, black hair.  They were probably Indian gypsies.  It is to be regretted that the miserable wretches were not captured.

It is indeed a narrow escape, and we congratulate the parents on the successful return of their young.  It should put children and parents on their guard against these suspicious persons.  It is very probable the little girl they had with them was kidnapped, as the boys said she looked sad and frightened, and was a very pretty little white girl, with light hair, while all the men and women were very dark with black hair.  Binghamton Leader

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, March 1871 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 22, 1871

Marriages

MEAD - STANLEY:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], March 14th, by Rev. Mr. Thurston, Mr. Henry Mead, of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], to Mrs. Elizabeth Stanley, of Oxford.

CARD - MERRIHEW:  In Utica [Oneida Co. NY], March 15th, by Rev. A.M. Bennett, Mr. John Card of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Martha A. Merrihew, of Sherburne Four Corners [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

STEARNS:  At the residence of her parents, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Sunday morning, March 19th, Emma N. [Stearns] wife of Royal Stearns of Canisteo, N.Y. [Steuben Co.] and daughter of Warren Thurston, of this village, aged 19 years 8 months 18 days.

DANIELS:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY], March 8th, Phebe [Daniels], wife of Alfred Daniels, aged 75 years.

GOULD:  In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], March 11th, Mr. Thomas Gould aged 89 years.

TORREY:  In East Greene [Chenango Co. NY], March 1st, Luretia A. [Torrey] wife of W.W. Torrey, aged 40 years.

TAYLOR:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 28th, Freddie P. [Taylor] son of Charles and Ellen Taylor, aged 8 months.

PERCIVAL:  In Mt. Morris, Livingston Co. [NY], March 1st, Catherine [Percival] relict of the late John Percival, aged 81 years, formerly of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY].

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, March 22, 1871

Marriages

SLATER - HALL:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], on 16th, by Rev. T.P. Halsted, Mr. Melvin Slater to Miss Emily M. Hall, both of Norwich.

BLANCHARD - ROBERTS:  In New York, on 5th, by Rev. A.H. Wyatt, Mr. Leon N.F. Blanchard, of Newark, N.J., to Miss H. La Vin Roberts, of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 23, 1871

Marriages

At the M.E. Parsonage, in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], on the 22d inst. by Rev. W. Burnside, Mr. John H. Webb, of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Henrietta Finch, of Wellsboro, Pa.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], on the 15th inst. at the residence of the bride's parents, upon the 50th anniversary of their wedding day, by Rev. A. W. Benedict, Mr. Jas. E. Chase to Miss Ellen [Wheeler], youngest daughter of J.R. Wheeler, Esq.

Golden Wedding:  Mr. and Mrs. J.R. Wheeler of this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of their marriage on Wednesday of last week, on which occasion a large circle of relatives and friends congregated at their residence to unite in the proper observance of the happy event.  The interest of the occasion was enhanced by another wedding, which we sincerely hope may prove golden in every sense of the word--the marriage of the youngest daughter of the venerable couple, one of the fairest of the many beautiful young ladies of whom Norwich can boast, to Mr. James E. Case, a young gentle man esteemed for his many excellent qualities of head and heart.  Altogether the occasion was one long to be remembered by all who participated. [Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 22, 1871]

In German [Chenango Co. NY], at the residence of the bride's father, December 26th, 1870, by Rev. L.D. Turner, Mr. Jerome Goetchens of Upper Lisle [Broome Co. NY], to Miss Ella Burnap, of German.

Deaths

Mrs. Chaity S. Blackman, who died recently, at the age of 100, in Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY] left 50 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild.

Vital Records, Chenango County, New York, March 1871 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 15, 1871

Marriages

WARNER - CLARK:  In Oneida [Madison Co. NY], March 6th?, by Rev. D. McFarland, Mr. Loran Warner to Miss Emily E. Clark,, both of Otselic [Chenango Co. NY].

ROGERS - ISBELL:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], March 1st, by Rev. J.L. Bennett, Mr. D.M. Rogers of Sherburne, to Mrs. Mary A. Isbell, of Hamilton [Madison Co. NY].

BOWERS - WATERS:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], March 7th?, by Rev. J.L. Bennett, Mr. Francis E. Bowers of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Nellie E. Waters, of Sherburne.

ROE - SMITH:  In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], Feb. 23d, by Rev. H.S. Smith, Mr. S.E. Roe of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], to Mrs. Mary C. Smith, of the former place.

WARNER - CARDNER:  In Cuyler, Cortland Co. [NY], March 8th?, by Eld. T. Fisher, Mr. James Warner of Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Emma Cardner of the former place.

Deaths

DICKSON:  At the residence of his mother, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 13th, of consumption, Mr. Henry P. Dickson, aged 38? years.

HAMMOND:  At the residence of her son-in-law, J.P. Sawyer, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 14th, Mrs. Eliza Hammond, relict of the late Hiram Hammond, of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], aged 64 years.

TRACY:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 10th, Harriet Tracy, aged 53 years.

LAW:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 20th, Lillie P. [Law], only child of Leander S. and Phoebe E. Law, aged 2 months and 16 days.

MATHEWSON:  In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], March 9th, Mr. Seth Mathewson son of Windsor Mathewson, aged 24 years.

DAVIS:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], March 8th, Mr. John Davis aged 86? years, 8 months and 4 days.

ALDRICH:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], March 11th, Mr. A. Denslow Aldrich, aged 34 years 6 months and 8 days.

BORST:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], March 7th, Frank W. Borst in the 18th year of his age.

IRELAND:  In West Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], March 7th, Justin [Ireland], son of Widow Ireland, aged 13 years.

FERRIS:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Elizabeth [Ferris], wife of I.B. Ferris, aged 64 years.

COPLEY:  In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 2d, Mr. Charles Copley, aged 76 years.

CARTER:  At the residence of her father, in Lisle, Broome Co. [NY] Feb. 24th, Rosetta E. [Carter], wife of A. Lyman Carter, of Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], aged 16 years and 2 months.  But two short months had intervened between the altar and the tomb.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, March 15, 1871

Marriages

WHEELER - HOVEY:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], March 8th, by Rev. A. Reynolds, Mr. Garet R. Wheeler to Miss Harriet F. Hovey, all of Oxford.

MORSE - JONES:  In East Greene [Chenango Co. NY], on 2d, by Rev. W.C. Phillips, Mr. Edgar D. Morse of Greene, to Miss Mary E. Jones, f East Greene.

Deaths

WILLCOX:  In South Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], on the 11th inst. Lovina [Willcox], wife of Mr. Charles F. Willcox, aged 34 years.

HILLER:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 18th, Mr. Prince Hiller, aged 68 years.  He was found dead in his bed.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 16, 1871

Marriage

In New York City, on the 5th inst. by the Rev. A.H. Wyatt, Mr. Leon N.F. Blanchard of Newark, N.JU. to Miss H. La Vin Roberts of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], on the 7th inst. Georgianna [ Hall], daughter of Amos F. and Frances A. Hall, aged 7 months.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], on the 11th inst. Mr. Caleb W. Slawson, aged 47 years, 8 months and 12 days.

In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], on the 11th inst. Mr. Thomas Gould.

In Triangle [Broome Co. NY], on the 13th inst., Rolly D. [Fox], son of Abraham and R...c Fox, aged 12 years 11 months and 13 days.

In East Greene [Chenango Co. NY], on the 1st inst. Luertia A. [Torrey] wife of W.W. Torrey, in the 31st year of her age.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, March 2, 1871

Marriages

FAGAN - LAURENS:  At the Roman Catholic Church, on the 16th inst. by Rev. A.P. Luddon, Mr. Thomas Fagan and Miss Esther Laurens, both of this place [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY].

In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], on the 15th inst. by Rev. M. Jones, of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Mr. Frederick Zimmerman and Miss Margeret Grewelding, both of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].

Death

In this place [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on Friday, 17th inst. Wm. E. Irons, son of Orlando Irons, aged about 25 years.

In Memorium:  With sincere sorrow we record the death of a most estimable lady, Mrs. C.L. Easton, who after a lingering and painful illness, went to her rest on Tuesday afternoon this week.  Her age was 57 years.  The deceased has been a resident of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] for eighteen years, and during all that time, we venture to affirm that not an ill word has ever been spoken of her.  She was a true woman in the full meaning of the term, a faithful friend, a devoted wife and mother, and a consistent Christian.  She will be missed from a large social circle, from the Chruch of which she was an ornament, but above all from the home where she was reverenced for her excellent qualities of head and heart.  The flowers with which affectionate hands profusely decked her remains, were emblematic of the loveliness and purity of her life.  Though this dispensation has been long anticipated, it is none the less afflictive. The sufferings of the departed though at times intense, were borne with Christian fortitude and patience, and the immediate friends who have the warmest sympathies of our whole community, may console themselves with the reflection that after a pure and blameless life, her final passage was peaceful and resigned.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, March 1871

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 1, 1871

Marriage

WILCOX - HUTCHINSON:  In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 2d, by Rev. Mr. Jones, Mr. Charles D. Wilcox to Helen Hutchinson, both of Mcdonough [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

PIERCE:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 10th, after a tedious illness, Miss Mary Pierce, aged 21 years.

SCOTT:  In Westfield, Chautauqua Co. [NY], Feb. 10th, Merrick Scott son of the late Daniel Scott, aged 66? years.

KNAPP:  In New Orleans, La. Feb. 15th, Mrs. Emilie A. Knapp wife of James S. Knapp, D.D.S., aged 45 years, formerly of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] in this county.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 8, 1871

Marriages

WATTS - SIBLEY:  At the residence of the bride's parents, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 1st, by Rev. J.D. Pope, Mr. Charles H. Watts an employee of the Union office, to Miss Sarah A. Sibley, all of Norwich.

MANN - HARRINGTON:  At the residence of H.H. Harrington, Esq., in New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], by Rev. Mr. Robinson, Doct. William J. Mann to Miss Sarah J. Harrington daughter of D. Harrington, Esq., all of New Berlin.

ARCHER - ROBBINS: In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 25th, by Rev. J. Storrs, Mr. Willie Archer to Miss Ettie Robbins, both of Otselic.

MORSE - JONES:  At the residence of the bride's father, in East Greene [Chenango Co. NY], March 2d, by Rev. W. C. Phillips, Mr. Edgar D. Morse of Greene, to Miss Mary E. Jones, of the former place.

IRELAND - SWEET:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 27th, by Rev. T.P. Halsted, Mr. Henry M. Ireland, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Elizabeth Sweet of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY].

CUMBER - BRONSON: In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 22d, by Rev. W. Burnside, Mr. Samuel F. Cumber of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Jennie L. Bronson, of Montrose, Pa.

BALDWIN - WINSTON:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] Feb. 23d, by Rev. W. Burnside, Mr. Amos S. Baldwin to Mrs. Lydia M. Winston, all of Greene.

READ - CUMMINGS:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] Feb. 27th, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Henry F. Read of Smithville flats [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Josephine L. Cummings, of Greene.

McLAGAN - PLACE:  In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], Feb. 26th, by Rev. S. Smith, Mr. Cory W. McLagan, of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Emma J. Place, of Unadilla.

FOOTE - ROSS:  At Whitney's Point [Broome Co. NY], Feb. 21st, by Rev. Wm. Gates, Mr. Alph. B. Foote, editor of the Broome Gazette, to Miss Carrie E. Ross, all of Whitney's Point.

Deaths

AVERY:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 1st, Mr. Roswell Avery, aged 79 years.

RAYMOND:  At the residence of her son-in-law, M.P. Vosburgh, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY, March 6th, Mrs. Permelia Raymond, aged 75 years.

CONGER:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 23d? Elizabeth G. [Conger], wife of Charles P. Conger, aged 57 years, 3 months and 16 days.

ENSIGN:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 20th, Betsey Ensign, aged 60? years.

CHENEY:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 26th, Mr. Russel Cheney, aged 73 years.

BINGHAM:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 25th, Mary Jane [Bingham], wife of A.D. Bingham, aged 34? years.

NEWTON:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 27th, Dea. Allen Newton, aged 79 years and 11 months.  also, Feb. 28th, Marcia [Newton], aged 77 years, 10 months and 18 days.

SAWYER:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 25th, Mr. Amos Sawyer, aged 85 years.

YOUNGS:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 27th, Arminda C. [Youngs], wife of James Youngs, aged 35 years 5 months and 13 days 

SPENCER:  At Castle Creek, Broome Co. [NY], Feb. 24th, Mr. William Spencer, of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], aged 75 years.

SCHENCK:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 26th, Jesse Linn [Schenck], infant son of M.H. and Mary Schenck.

PURDY:  At the residence of her son, Edward H. Purdy in Oneida [Madison Co. NY], Feb. 30th, Mrs. Lucina Purdy, in the 77th year of her age.  A large portion of the earlier days of the deceased was spent near the "Old Four Corners," between Smyrna and North Norwich, where she raised a large family of children.  She had been many years a widow and has gone to join the loved ones who went before, while she will be widely missed, and her loss sincerely mourned by those who survive her.  Her remains were taken to Wood's Corners, in North Norwich, for interment by the side of her husband, and two daughters who were cut off in the early bloom of womanhood.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, March 1, 1871

Death

Dr. John P. Farmham, a prominent citizen of Carbondale [PA] died on Monday evening at 7 o'clock, of consumption.  He had resided at Carbondale and Archbald since 1833, removing from Oxford, Chenango Co. N.Y., in that year.  He was for many years a medical practitioner, but afterwards embarked in the mercantile and lumber business, and acquired a comfortable property.  Scranton City Journal, 25th ult., The deceased was a brother of Mr. S.H. Farnham, of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY].

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, March 8, 1871

Marriages

DRAKE -MOORE:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], March 1st, by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Charles M. Drake, of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Orcelia Moore, of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY].

WATERS - MERRELL:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], March 6th, by Rev. T.P. Halsted, Mr. Henry A. Waters of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], to Mrs. Mary J. Merrell, of this village.

KINNEY - JEFFORDS:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 23d, by Rev. A Reynolds, Mr. Samuel W. Kinney to Mrs. HA. Jeffords, all of Oxford.

Death

STARKEY:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 28th, Amy [Starkey], wife of John Starkey, aged 78 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 2, 1871

Marriage

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], on the 15th ult. by Rev. T. D. Hammond, Mr. Wesley R. Harrington, to Miss Frankie I. [Burroughs, all of Greene.

Deaths

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], on the 26th ult. Miss Alice [Randall, daughter of Mrs. Cynthia Randall, aged 21 years and 8 months.

Family Reunion

A pleasant family party, consisting of about thirty guests and representing three generations, convened at the residence of Mr. Homer L. Smith, on Thursday of last week, to commemorate the birthday of the grandfather, the late Samuel A. Smith, formerly of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], who in his lifetime held prominent positions of public trust, and was well known throughout Chenango County.  He died about seven years since, but the family have since his death continued the custom of always assembling on each anniversary of his birthday which he lived. The birthday occurred on the 22d of February, but as that happened to be Ash Wednesday this year, it was concluded to anticipate the time for the convenience of some friends.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 9, 1871

Marriage

In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], on the 1st inst. by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Chas. M. Drake of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Orcelia Moore, of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], on the 3d inst. Miss Lany [Gross], aged 22 years.

At North Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], on the 16th ult. Mrs. Charity Smith Blackman, in the 100th year of her age.

Soldier's Letter, Civil War, H.H. Beecher, 114th NY Infantry, February 1864

 Letter from Harrison H. Beecher, Surgeon, 114th NY Infantry

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 9, 1864

U.S. Army Marine Hospital, New Orleans, La. Feb. 18

As I write, the air is filled with fleecy snowflakes, which, at this season of the year, or any other in New Orleans, has rarely been witnessed by the "oldest inhabitant."  For many years, at least, I am informed the like has not been seen.  Many people here had formed the idea that snow was black, as all negros are called "Snowball;" but being assured by persons from northern latitudes that it really was snow, soon ceased to cavil at the reality or dispute the fact.  Others judged that the clerk of the weather had filled his pepper box with salt, and hence this unseasonable and unusual visitation. At any rate, it came so plentifully, that by dint of lively scraping considerable sized snowballs were gathered from the steps and from the floors of the galleries about the buildings with which sundry patients and individuals made ineffectual attempts to pelt each other in the face and eyes.

A lady in the institution, who had evidently seen one of the great elements of nature in like form before, and knew at least something of the uses to which it might be applied, gave the visage of your humble servant, as a reminder, I suppose, an effectual rubbing, which made the cheeks tingle, and brought the blush, but whether the glowing effect was from the application of the "snowy flakes," or the blush of modesty and bashfulness, from near proximity to the "tender-sex" which is an occurrence equally rare, deponent saith not.

As I am simply producing, on the spur of the moment, a weather item rather than a newsletter of special interest and importance, I cannot do better perhaps than quote or reproduce a paragraph or two from an article on "Winter, North and South" which appeared a few weeks since in a Southern print, and which you can reprint or not, as suits you best. As winter, at the North, will not be entirely over ere this reaches its destination, the representation may not be entirely out of time or place.

After describing or alluding to the effect and appearance of a northern winter, "bristling with icicles and white with frost," and picturing snowbanks which lie, "Like a silence deep and white," in fields, in the highway, in city and in town, placing an embargo alike upon car and sleigh trave, destroying the irregularity of the mails, &c, and "the snow sill fluttering down," -the subject is discussed upon in this wise:

"Southern readers will not see much comfort or poetry in this state of things.  their thin blood recoils from the surface at such wintry suggestions.  Not so with the men of the North who are here.  At home it may be that they will sigh their dread of the coming winter, and their longings for the more congenial clime of the South.  They come down here and discover even in the winter breezes of the South, an eager and a nipping air. calling for fires, overcoats and gloves.  Surprised to find some of the essential concomitants of winter, they miss that grand redeeming feature, the sleighing, which renders the season at the North the gayest and happiest of the year.  Their longings are reversed.  They sigh for frost pictures on the windows, for sleigh bells, for snow balls, for a swift gliding cutter--in short, for a full blooded winter, such as only the north produces in its completeness. Even a snow blockade is not without its redeeming qualities.  There is much exhilaration in the recollections of the breaking out teams, which every morning after a storm, used to plow through the highway and byways of our district, so that the children could get to school, and the farmers to the mill and store.  Nothing prettier, in its way, than snow shoveling, or the feathery waves thrown up on either side of the road as the cross bar plows the snow in front of the sled, freighted with noisy, rose faced children, in hoods, and mittens and cloaks. The cattle are turned loose from their warm tie-ups to take their breakfast of hay, strewn upon the pure snow which covers the yard, and then to go on their winding way among the drifts to the spring, down in the cedar swale, where they drink and delectate themselves with eating tender twigs and rubbing their sides against the titillating points of stumps and upturned roots.

"Suggestions of well-remembered winter pictures crowd upon us as we regale ourselves with the weather paragraphs of the northern papers.  How can a candy party attain the highest success unless they have a snow drift whereupon to pour the bubbling syrup, thereby giving it the coolness and waxiness of perfection?  What like a moonlight sleigh ride and fur robes can stimulate young hearts to the unspeakable joy of love?  Not the magnolia, or the orange grove, not the Mimic snow of the cotton, the rich plantations of the rustling cane, nor the golden robes of the rice field."

The 29th and 30th Maine infantry (veterans) with other infantry recruits, have recently arrived in this department; also, the 1st Delaware, the 2d Connecticut, and the 7th Massachusetts Batteries.  Active operations are on foot. A portion of the Federal troops have been withdrawn from Texas and Mobile, probably, will be the next place of attack.  An expedition, it is believed, is likewise being fitted out for the Red River country.

Gentlemen brim full of patriotism, from Northern and Eastern cities, with their pockets well lined with greenbacks, as is necessary and highly proper for the purposes of doing good, are rapidly pouring into the "Crescent City."  These men surely are not the fomenters or abettors of this bloody strife for the attainment of political ends nor are they here for the purpose of conquest or cotton.  Of course, they do not come to speculate, and certainly, persons so highly respectable in character, will not steal, or join hands with that terrible King Cotton, or raise Cane!

If they cultivate at all the acquaintance of this formidable King, it will be with the laudable object of despoiling him of his locks and appeasing his wrath.  Like most other good people, they do not like the smell of powder, else their love of country, which is great, would irresistibly impel them, in all advances to lead the van.  Sometimes, even in the face of imminent danger, they send their emissaries, or rather missionaries, to posts of peril, as advance guards, carefully to remove or protect all valuable property, of whatever kind, that might possibly afford "Aid or comfort" to the enemy, or by any means fall into the hands of desperate Federal soldiers or irresponsible Union men.  Discretion being the better part of valor, and that their valuable services and disinterested lives may be spared to the country and the cause they love so well, they generally deem it prudent to keep their precious persons well to the rear.

The Free State party, or parties--as there are two of them, upon the supposition, I suppose, that there cannot be too much or too many of a good thing, hold an election for State officers within a few days. The Conservative Union party also have a ticket.  The "Iron-clad" oath, as it is termed, prescribed in the Presidents proclamation, in addition to the oath of allegiance, as a test of the qualification of a voter, being distasteful to a considerable number, will have the effect, it is feared, of keeping many really Union men from the polls.  Of the result you will in due time be informed.

As to the trip into the country which I was on the point of making in my last, I will add it was highly satisfactory--most delightful!  We made a drive of some 30 miles up the coast, visited several plantations containing from 500 to one and two thousand slaves.

In regard to the operations of the "free labor" system, some thought it would prove a complete success--all that could be desired--while others, particularly old planters, appeared to think it could not be made to work, especially in their hands.

This in many respects is indeed a beautiful section of country.  The sun never shone upon a richer soil, and fruits and flowers more exuberant and of superior richness and beauty, rarely grow.  How foolish, even to madness, to leave such homes, surrounded by all the comforts, luxuries and elegancies conducive to a happy and prosperous life, to be occupied by foreigners, and their lands overrun by the feet of strangers, to follow the fortunes of war, either to dissolve the Union, or try to make it better than it was.

Much to my surprise but none the less gratifying, I have received a call from Dr Homer Newton, of Sherburne, lately appointed Asst. Surgeon of the 131st N.Y.  He recently joined the Regiment at Brashear and came down to the city to be mustered into service.

I read with pain of the death of Dr. Blin Harris, as I did of my esteemed friend Dr. Baker. Two worthy citizens and distinguished members of the profession at home with but a brief interval intervening, have passed away. Whether at home or abroad--whether enjoying the pursuits or peace in  the midst of families and friends--or where the battle most does rage--thus we go!  Such is life.    H.

Vital Records, Chenango Co. NY, February (concluded)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, February 22, 1871

Marriages

PER LEE - KINNEY:  At the residence of the bride's sister, Mrs. J.F. Le Ferre in Tiskilwa, Ill. Feb. 2d, by Rev. Mr. Webb. Mr. Isaac R. Per Lee of North Norwich [Chenango C o. NY] to Mrs. Julia A. Kinney, of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].

BRIGGS - WILBUR:  In Deansville [Oneida Co. NY], Feb. 8th? by Rev. A.C. Smith, Mr. D. Briggs of Earlville [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Nettie E. Wilbur, of Lebanon [Madison Co. NY].

POOLE - HARD:  In Cuyler [Cortland Co. NY], Jan. 29th?, by Rev. L.H. Van Valkenburg, Mr. Franklin P. Poole to Miss Nila S. Hard, both of Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY].

SHOALES - CHRISTIAN:  In Vernon, N.Y. at the residence of the bride's father, Feb. 8th by Rev. L. Eastwood, Mr. Frank H. Shoales of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Gertie C. Christian, of the former place.

Deaths

CHAPEL:  At the residence of her son-in-law, C.S. La Hatt, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 15th, of paralysis, Mrs. Phoebe Chapel, widow of Joseph Chapel, aged 77 years and 1 month.

DAVIS:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 18th, Mr. Reuben Davis, aged 90 years.

WELLS:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 4th, Beatrice [Wells], infant daughter of Judson H. and Elma S. Wells.

POOLE:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 5th, Mary H. [Poole] wife of James Poole, aged 55 years.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, February 22, 1871

Marriage

KING - WESSEL:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], on the 15th, by Rev. A. Reynolds, Mr. Wm. E. King to Miss Mary Wessel, both of East Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

HALL:  In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], on 13th, Charles [Hall], son of James and Roxanna Hall, aged 8 years.

STRONG:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY], on 17th, Minerva . [Strong], daughter of Wm. and Mary A. Strong, aged 20 years.

Two weeks since Mrs. Betsey Brooks, mother of Supervisor Brooks of this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] met with a painful accident which we regret to say has resulted fatally.  She was at the residence of her son-in-law, -?- Barns, in Oxford, and in moving through a -?- met with a fall which badly fractured her hip.  The shock was a severe one for a person of her age, 78 years, and her death followed in a few days.  Telegraph 

Chenango American, Greene, NY, February 23, 1871

Marriages

At the residence of the bride's father, in South Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], on the 15th inst. by Rev. Geo. Porter, Dr. C.C. miller, of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Ellen L. [Stratton], daughter of Mr. John Stratton.

At the residence of the bride's father, in this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], on the 8th inst. by Rev. Dr. Bristol, of Binghamton, Mr. A.L. Patterson of Barreville, Ill. to Miss Mary [Lewis], daughter of Mr. Ellis Lewis.

At the residence of the bride's father, in this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], on the 16th inst. by Rev. H. Sage, Mr. Stephen B. Galloway, of Waverly, N.Y. [Tioga Co.] to Miss Flora M. [Robinson] daughter of Loren Robinson.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, February 1871 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, February 15, 1871

Marriages

POST - BROOKS:  At the residence of the bride's father, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 8th, by Rev. W.A. Wadsworth, assisted by Rev. T. Harroun, Mr. Charles H. Post to Miss Jennie A. Brooks, daughter of Charles B. Brooks, all of Norwich.

SKINNER - DODGE:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 1st, by Rev. Z.M. Kemp, Mr. Daniel Skinner, of North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], to Mrs. Mary Ann Dodge, of Plymouth.

CUSHMAN - WELLS:  In Troy, Feb. 7th, by Rev. H. Farr, Mr. Loring Cushman, of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Alzina Wells, of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY].

GIBSON - BEAL:  At the home of the bride, Jan. 18th, by Rev. McK. Shaw, Mr. Abel Gibson to Miss Grace M. Beal, all of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY].

GRAVES - MOULTON:  At the home of the bride, Jan. 25th, by the same, Mr. C.H. Graves to Miss Ella J. Moulton, both of Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY].

ADAMS - ALLEN:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], Feb. 4th, by Rev. R.A. Warner, Mr. Nelson Adams, to Miss Samantha Allen.

Deaths

BROOKS:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 8th, from injuries received by a fall, Mrs. Betsey Brooks, mother of Silas Brooks, Esq., of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], aged 78 years.

FRADENBERG:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 2d, Mrs. Roxanna Fradenberg of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], aged 75 years.

PACKER:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 8th, of consumption, Elen A. [Packer], daughter of Jotham Packer, aged 45 years.

HOWE:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 8th, Ida [Howe], daughter of Adelbert Howe, aged 4 years.

BARNES:  In East Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 4th, of consumption, Caroline [Barnes], wife of George Barnes, aged 23 years.

PELLET:  In Flint, Michigan, Aug. 18th, 1870, while visiting at the residence of his son, Mr. Archibald Pellet, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], in the 87th year of his age.  In 1791, Mr. Pellet moved from Canterbury, Ct., to Norwich, with his father.  He was married to Miss Lovina Gibson, in 1820, and settled on the Borden farm, east of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], where he continued to reside until 1854, when he moved with his family to Murray, Orleans, Co., where he continued to reside, much respected by both his old and new friends.  Mr. Pellet was a brother of John Pellet, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY]

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, February 15, 1871

Marriages

GIBSON - BUNNEL:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], on the 7th, by Rev. T.P. Halsted, Mr. Joseph S. Gibson, of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Jennie A. Bunnel, of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY].

FRANCOIS - HAWKINS:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 18th, by Rev. A. Reyolds, Mr. Alexander L. Francois to Miss Mary E. Hawkins, both of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

Death

BARNES:  In East Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 3d, Caroline Sheeler [Barnes], wife of George Barnes, aged 28 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, February 16, 1871

Marriages

At the bride's home, in North Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], on the 11th ult. by Rev. S.C. Van Camp, Geo. Hicks, of Cortland [Cortland Co. NY] to Amelia Kenyon.

At the bride's home, Wednesday evening, the 8th inst. by Rev. S.C. Van Camp, Frank Hakes to De Ette Wilmarth, all of Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY].

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], on the 1st inst., by Rev. W. Burnside, Mr. Rufus Conant to Mrs. Betsey D. Bixby, all of Greene.

Deaths

In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], on the 30th ult. Noah Ely,, Esq. aged 87 years.

In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], on the 11th inst. Mrs. Betsey Johnson, wife of Mr. Ralph Johnson, aged 78 years.

In this town (Page Brook) [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] on the 12th inst. Mr. Thomas Ward, aged 52 years.

In Barker [Broome Co. NY], on the 14th inst., Clark Alexander, aged 46 years.