Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, April 1874 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 16, 1874

Marriages

SERGENT - SNOW:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], April 4th, by Rev J.C. Ward, Mr. Herbert F. Sergent of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Libby Snow of Norwich.

WHITMORE - DARLING:  At the residence of Ziba Winsor, near Holmesville [Chenango Co. NY], April 9th, Mr. John E. Whitmore of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Adaline Darling, of Holmesville.

ROBBINS - RICHER:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], April 2d, by W.R. Caulkins, Esq., Mr. Stephen W. Robbins to Miss Cornelia Richer, all of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY].

HALL - PACKER:  At the residence of the bride's mother, Mrs. Amos B. Packer, in this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], April 8th, by Rev. L.M.S. Haynes, Mr. Fred F. Hall, of this village to Miss Mary M. Packer.

Last Wednesday it was our privilege to be a guest at one of those recherche entertainments, where not only the happy pair were radiant with smiles, on account of the great event of their lives, but where all of a numerous company were most delightfully entertained. We refer to the wedding of our popular townsman, Fred F. Hall, Esq., and the accomplished bride, Miss Mary Packer.

Notwithstanding the rain, a large company gathered at the residence of the bride's mother, Mrs. Amos B. Packer.  Many of the guests came from a long distance. Among others we were introduced to Horace Packer, Esq., of Oxford, the Messrs. Hall, from New York, and Mrs. Fitch. The company was well entertained before the wedding examining the beautiful presents which fairly crowded the piano. There was a handsome silver tea set from Mrs. Fitch; an elegant landscape in oil, from Miss Sarah Packer; and well-we might as well stop. You would not remember if we should describe then all.

The ceremony by Rev. Mr. Haynes was brief and was succeeded by a repast that certainly could not have been beaten.  About six o'clock the bridal party left for New York, followed by good wishes and old shoes (one gallant gentleman contributed his boot) happy, doubtless, to escape from the excitements of the occasion to a cozy talk by themselves.  "Go thou and do likewise."  So, say we to all the boys and girls.

Deaths

SQUIRES:  At the residence of her son-in-law, N. Eggleston, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 14th, Mrs. Charity Squires, aged 80 years and 10 months.

KEELER:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], March 20th, Lucy [Keeler], wife of William Keeler, aged 38 years.

RILEY:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], April 3d, Miss Louisa L. Riley, daughter of the late Josiah Riley, of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], aged 46 years.

CUMMINGS:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], April 10th, Mr. Abijah D. Cummings, aged 68 years.

HOVEY:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], April 5th, Julia Wheeler, wife of George Hovey, aged 22 years.

TEACHOUT:  In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], Aprl 2d, Eva L. [Teachout], daughter of Ira Teachout, aged 7 months.

SHELDON:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], April 12th, Mr. Virgil R. Sheldon, formerly of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], and brother of Wm. R. Sheldon of Norwich, aged 26 years.

TRULOCK:  At the Asylum in Preston [Chenango Co. NY], April 13th, Mr. Andrew J. Trulock, aged 55 years.

KING:  At the residence of her son-in-law, C. A. Buell, in Woodcock Township, Pa., March 24th, Mrs Elizabeth kIng, aged 79 years, formerly of North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY]. 

LUDINGTON:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], March 20th, Martha Louise [Ludington], aged 8 days; and April 10th, Mary Elizabeth [Ludington] aged 25 days, twins of M.B. and S.J. Ludington.  "I take these little lambs, said He, / And lay them on my breast; / Protection they shall find in me, / In me be ever blest."

Those of our readers who remember the intelligent, kind-hearted and genial Thomas W. Clark, who a number of years since was head brewer of Messrs. Scott & Conway, then proprietors of the Norwich Brewery [Chenango Co. NY], will be pained to learn of his death, which occurred at St. Joseph's Hospital in Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY], on Wednesday morning of last week, after an illness of two or three days.  The Courier in mentioning his death, says:  "He was a man of sterling character, quiet, unobtrusive manners, and had the friendship of all who knew him.  The Sisters of the hospital speak highly of him, where his last hours were spent in a manner that showed an effort on his part to make the least trouble possible."

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, April 16, 1874

Deaths

William Austin, of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], was thrown from the track by a coal train between Otego and Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], on Thursday, about five o'clock P.M., and died from his injuries soon after.  He was walking on the track.  He paid no attention to the whistle.  The train was stopped as soon as possible, but not in time to save him.

Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY]:  Passed through the dark valley of the shadow of death, April 6th, 1874, April 6th, 1874, Joseph Tefft, in the 63d year of his age.  Deceased was converted some two years ago, since which time he has been an active Christian, always attending the meetings of the Christian Church.  He has been found in all its ordinances and appointments, and in all its work, a most devoted and exemplary Christian.  Surely, he has "passed from Death unto life."  The funeral took place on Thursday last from his late residence. The three pastors of the churches in Smyrna participating - Rev. H.S. Jones preaching the discourse. The remains were interred int he East burial place in this village.

Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY]:  Entered into the life to come April 5th, 1874, in the 31st year of her age, Ellen C. Sprague [Dixon], wife of Mott C. Dixon, of Smyrna, N.Y.  Mrs. Dixon was the last surviving daughter of Mrs. Wm. Sprague, of Smyrna, and sister of C.A. Sprague, Esq., late City Treasurer of Brooklyn, N.Y.  She was married Sept. 24th, 1867, and leaves a daughter - little Lizzie - too young to fully realize the loss of a mother. At the age of eleven Miss Sprague became a member of the Sabbath School at Upperville. She was converted under the preaching of Rev. T.M. Williams. February 1863, baptized March 29th, and received into full communion of the M.E. Church, at Smyrna, Sept. 27th of the same year.  After marriage, that she might walk with her husband, she united by letter with the Congregational Chruch at Smyrna.  She became an earnest and faithful S.S. teacher, winning and holding the love of a large class. Consistent and faithful in all her Christian life, her death was a rich testimony of triumph in the Christian faith.  Her last words, "Is this Jesus?" indicate that the portals of heaven were open for her entrance. The funeral took place from her late residence on Wednesday, where a large concourse of relatives and friends gathered to pay the last tribute of respect to the memory of the departed one.  Pastors Chas. C. Johnson, of the Congregational Chruch, A.F. Brown, of the M.E. Chruch, and H.S. Jones, of the Baptist Church, participating in the ceremony, the former preaching the discourse.  her remains were interred int he Sherburne West Hill cemetery.

The Late Harvey Myers

Editor of Telegraph:  I thought perhaps it might be interesting to many of the readers of your paper to know that the Hon. Harvey Myers, of Covington, Ky., who you mentioned in your paper of last week as having been killed by Col. G.W. Tyrell on the 28th of March, was formerly a resident of the towns of Afton and Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY].

Mr. Aaron Myers, father of Henry Myers, moved from near the mouth of Unadilla River, and purchased a farm three and a half miles north of the village of Afton known as the Joshua Newton farm, when Henry was some two or three years old, and lived there until he was thirteen or fourteen years of age, when, by some means, Mr. Myers, by the reverse of fortune, lost most of his property, and then lived by renting farms in various parts of Bainbridge, Harvey living with his parents until he was nearly or quite twenty years old, when they moved to Great Bend, Pa.; and the next I heard from Harvey he was practicing law in Covington, Ky.

Extracts from a letter received from him the 26th day of Nov. 1872:  

"I have been in Kentucky twenty-two years and in this city nineteen years and have been practicing law here seventeen years.  I have a very large practice and have been quite successful in it.  I have been in partnership with Gov. Stevenson sixteen years.  he has assisted me but little in the practice, he having been in politics nearly all the while.  He is now in the U.S. Senate.  He has been a member of Congress and Governor of Kentucky since I have been connected with him."

Thus, it will be seen that he had worked his way up from a poor boy; thrown upon his own resources like many other poor boys who have made their mark in the world.

He was run for Congressman in the fall of 1872 on the Republican ticket but was not elected, the democrats being in overwhelming forces in his State.

He had become a lawyer of wide reputation and was universally respected.  He was a boy of considerable energy and perseverance, but very much noted for mildness of temper and sound judgment, a boy in stature; in mind a man; and very much respected at an early age for honesty, truth and veracity.

Some years ago, he purchased a place near Great Bend, Pa., for a home for his parents in their declining years.

He was forty-six years of age last February and leaves a wife and six children.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY April 1874 (continued)

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, April 9, 1874

Marriage

BOBBINS - RICHER:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], April 2d, 1874, by W.R. Calkins, Esq., Mr. Stephen W. Robbins and Miss Cornelia Richards, all of Plymouth, Chenango County, N.Y.

Deaths

TEFFT:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], April 5th, Mr. Joseph Tefft, aged 62 years, 4 months and 7 days.

TERRY:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on march 3d, Edna May [Terry] daughter of Kinyon Terry, aged 4 years.

TERRY:  Died in this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on the 5th inst., suddenly, Thomas K. Terry, aged 74 years.

The death of Mr. Terry calls for something more than a passing notice at our hands.  Mr. Terry was born in Rhode Island, and seventy years since moved from that State with his father and settled upon the farm upon which he died, and which he occupied during the long period of his residence here.  His life, though not characterized by official station, yet was one of usefulness, performing well his part in life's drama at all times.  He was a consistent Christian, and in his daily walks gave evidence of his profession.  He was one of the earliest subscribers to the Telegraph, and his son informs us that he always looked with interest for its appearance and never missed the reading of it for a single week until the last, and that only by reason of his severe illness.  In this connection we can bear willing evidence to his promptness and cheerfulness in the performance of his duty as a patron to the publisher.  He always took great interest in political affairs and never missed voting but at one fall election.  His vote was always conscientiously cast in favor of freedom.  Mr. Terry had many friends, all of whom were warmly attached to him.   He was an honest upright man and has gone to his reward.  He leaves five daughters, and one son, Kenyon Terry, who succeeds to the occupancy of the old homestead, now in the hands of the third generation, a worthy son of an honored sire.

Henry Towslee, a worthy citizen of Brisbin, Chenango County [NY], fell from the peak of his house on Thursday afternoon last, and received injuries from which he died in about two hours.  He was building the house for himself and was at work on the roof when the fatal fall occurred.  Mr. Towslee was between forty and fifty years of age and leaves a wife and several children.  Binghamton TimesI

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, April 8, 1874

Death

WOOD:  In Seward, Nebraska, on March 17th, Mamie Estella [Wood], daughter of Sprague K. and Cecilia C. Wood, aged 5 years and 4 months.

Sad Accident:  Last Monday two little boys, Charlie and Orrie, sons of Mr. C.O. Watrous of North Chapin Street, were playing in the yard with another boy named Dunning.  The latter had taken up a pickaxe to loosen up some frozen ashes and in raising it over his head to strike, he accidentally hit Charlie Watrous, a boy about six years old who had run up behind him.  The point of the pickaxe struck him in the corner of the eye penetrating to the brain and felling him instantly.  He died from the effects of the injuries on Saturday morning.  He was attended by Dr. Orton who carefully dressed the wound. The little sufferer remained unconscious up to the time of his death, recognizing no one, and talking incoherently.  Binghamton Times

Roswell Tracy, formerly of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], died suddenly at his residence in Big Flats, Chemung County [NY] one day last week.  His remains were brought to this village and the funeral held on Sunday. Deceased was a member of the -?- N.Y. Cavalry during the rebellion.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 9, 1874

Marriages

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], April 2d, at the residence of the bride's parents, by Rev. Jas. O. Nightingale, Mr. Samuel R. Harrison to Miss Eliza Wilson, both of Smithville.

At the residence of W.H. Wheeler, Bluffton, Kansas, March 26th, by Rev. O.NB. Mason, Mr. E.D. Cranston, of Rockford, Ill., to Miss Carre L. [Allen], daughter of A.F. Allen, of this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].

At the Baptist Parsonage, in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], March 25th, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Owen H. Carnegie to Miss Mary Sanders both of North Colesville, Broome Co., N.Y.

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], at the residence of A.D. Turner, March 24th, Miss Fidelia Hoyt, aged 62 years.

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], suddenly, April 6th, Henrietta [Day], daughter of the late Henry A. Day, aged 9 years, one month and eighteen days.

In Eaton, Madison Co. [NY], March 25th, Lottie Belle [King], aged 9 years and 7 months, only daughter of Leonard B. King, of Brisbin [Chenango Co. NY].

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], suddenly, on the morning of April 6th, Mr. John Kinnier, aged 46 years and 2 months.  "A goos man hath died."

In Triangle [Broome Co. NY], March 24th, Deacon John S. Morse, aged 76 years.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], April 5th, Mary [Burns], daughter of Miles and Eliza Burns, aged 3 years, 4 months.

In Brisbin [Chenango Co. NY], April 2d, Minnie Fulmer, aged 3 months.

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] at the residence of H.G. Crozier, Esq., April 7th, Mrs. Eliza Preston, aged 48 years.  Funeral on Thursday at 3 o'clock P.M.

In Brisbin [Chenango Co. NY], April 2d, Mr. Henry L. Towslee, aged 47 years and 3 months.

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], April 4th, Mrs. Rhoda Handy, aged 35 years and 6 months.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, April 11, 1874

Deaths

IRELAND:  In this town [Bainbridge, Chenango Co. NY], on the 7th inst., Electa M. [Ireland], wife of Jacob B. Ireland, aged 71 years.

MOODY:  In VanEttenville, Chemung Co., N.Y., on the 30th ult., Charles Moody, formerly of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], aged 87 years.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, April 1874 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 9, 1874

Marriages

MOSHER - BUNNELL:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], March 25th, by Rev. J.C. Ward, Mr. Joseph W. Mosher, of Aurora to Miss Emma B. Bunnell, of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

CHAMBERLAIN - SAGE:  At the residence of the bride in Holmesville [Chenango Co. NY], April 1st, by Rev. Wm. R. Stone, Rev. J.H. Chamberlain to Mrs. Eliza A. Sage.

HOAG - PERKINS:  March 15th, by Rev. W. Burnside, Mr. Charles Hoag of Columbus [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Esther Perkins, of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].

DREW - FOX:  March 22d, by the same, Mr. Andrew R. Drew, of Otselic [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Alice Fox, of DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY]. 

THRASHER - WETHERILL:  March 29th, by the same, Mr. William Thrasher, of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Magarette Wetherill, of Oxford. [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

WINSOR:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], April 1st, after a short illness, Mr. John W. Winsor, aged 57 years.

MARQUIS:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], April 6th, Nellie [Marquis], daughter of J.B. and Della A. Marquis, aged 10 months and 20 days.

STANBRO:  At Beaver Meadow, N.Y. [Chenango Co.] March 28th, of black measles, complicated with inflammation of the brain, George H. [Stanbro] oldest son of Dr. -?- and Helen Stanbro, aged 17 years, 2 months and 28 days.

HARRIS:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], April 5th, Mrs. Nancy Harris, aged 76 years.

MARSH:  In Richford, Tioga Co.  N.Y., March 23d, Mr. Burr Marsh, aged 78 years, formerly of North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], and brother of the late Hamilton Marsh of this village [Norwich].

DYE:  At Leon Center, Cattaraugus Co. N.Y., March 17th, of lung fever, Mr. Henry Dye, aged 63 years, formerly of Pitcher, this County [Chenango Co.], and youngest brother of Mrs. Phebe Edwards, of Pitcher.

__________________________

DIXON:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], April 5th, 1874, Ellen C. [Dixon] wife of M.C. Dixon, aged 30 years 7 months and 16 days.

The members of Pleasant Brook lodge, I.O. of G. T. met on Monday evening and adopted the following Resolutions:

Whereas, it has pleased God to remove from our midst our beloved sister, Ellen C. Dixon, it is with feelings of sorrow that we, the members of our lodge, pay this last tribute of respect to her memory.

Resolved:  That in the dispensation of Divine Providence, we have been deprived of a kind and loving sister, one who by her genial disposition and sympathetic feelings won many friends, who sincerely lament her sudden departure.

Resolved:  That we bow with humble submission to the will of our Heavenly Father and trust that our departed sister has found rest and happiness in that better and brighter world above.

Resolved:  That our charter be draped in mourning for thirty days and that we tender the bereaved family and friends our heartfelt sympathy.

Resolved:  That these Resolutions be published in the Chenango Union, Telegraph, and the Sherburne News, and a copy of the same be given to the friends of the deceased.

Committee:  G.A. Munson, Emons Wilber, Miss M.E. Cook

___________________________

Melvern A. Everts, who has been engineer of engine No. 16, on the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad, between Utica and Norwich, for the past three years, died in Utica [Oneida Co. NY] on Friday last, of congestion of the lungs.  He was on duty on the Saturday previous but failed rapidly after the attack.  He is spoken of as an excellent mechanic and a promising young man.  His parents reside in Binghamton and Superintendent Thompson kindly tendered a special train to the family and friends of the deceased, and his associates of the Company, to attend the funeral on Sunday, in that place.  On Sunday morning the special train bearing the remains, with the friends of deceased, and an escort of some thirty engineers, passed through this place.  It was composed of two coaches and the locomotive, the latter of which was appropriately draped.  The funeral services at Binghamton were very impressive and were largely attended. The train passed this station about five o'clock P.M., on its return.

_______________________________

The Greene Railway Accident

While getting our paper ready for the press last week, we were informed by R.E. Rindge Esq., the gentlemanly agent of the D.L. & W. Railroad Company at this station, that, a man had been killed on the night previous, on the track near Greene [Chenango Co. NY], and we published the particulars as far as he was enabled to furnish them.  Coroner Hand, who held the inquest, has kindly furnished us with the minutes taken, from which we condense the following account:

The facts connected with the manner of his death are substantially as stated by us last week.  Deceased was about the Greene depot in the evening, somewhat intoxicated. While there he said he wanted to go to Sylvester Dent's below the village, and inquired which was the best way to go.  He was shown the way, by Mr. Boardman, when he left, taking the highway, but soon left it, and got upon the railroad track, which he followed.  He was intoxicated and staggered some; had in his hand a black satchel.  Ezra B. Wheeler testified that he saw deceased get off from the cars on Tuesday afternoon.  He said he got on at Binghamton; was intoxicated; had worked for Wheeler; his occupation was principally boating.  Thomas H. Lansing, while driving to the village on the evening of the accident, found deceased lying in the road, got out of his wagon and picked him up.  Deceased told him to get away from him, or he would "put a head on him bigger than a bushel basket." The deponent left.  Watson Smith was coming up the track near sunrise on Wednesday morning, when he found the body lying between the rails, near the residence of Andrew Upham.  He called Mr. Upham, who went to the spot.  A boy was sent to Mr. Dent, who recognized the deceased.  The body was much mangled, having been shoved along five or six rods.  Mr. Upham saw a man walk down the track, near the spot, on the previous evening, apparently intoxicated. The hands on the morning freight train picked up the remains and took them away on a truck.  Sylvester Dent testified that deceased had worked for him last fall.  His name was Abial C. Herron, his age was about 36 years.  Deceased had told him his parents lived in New York or Brooklyn; that he was a single man; had been married but had no children; had known him for five years, had two letters from him recently; the last dated at Osborn Hollow, Broome County, March 24th. He wanted to work for him again and stated that he would be in Greene that week.  The usual habits of the deceased were good, but he had times of drinking.  His father used to live at Norwich.  Horace D. Root testified that he was engineer on the D.L.&W.  road, on train 21 and 22; ran a train past the village of Greene on Tuesday night; passed the depot at 10:20, going south, but did not stop; when near Upham's saw something lying on the track between the rails, and passed over it.  Did not stop the train until he got about four miles below, to take on wood, took a torch and told the conductor he had run over something.  Found blood and short hair on the pilot, and concluded it was a dog that had been run over.  Dr. M. Johnson testified as to the injuries.  the head was not separate from the body, but the neck was much mangled, the left arm cut nearly off above the wrist, and three fingers on the left hand crushed. The verdict of the jury was in accordance with the testimony and exonerated the railroad employees form blame.

The unfortunate man worked for a time in the shoe factory in this village, last summer, and has relatives residing in town.  

_____________________________________

Murder of Harvey Myers

A terrible tragedy occurred at Covington, Kentucky, on the morning of the 28th ult. which resulted in the death of Harvey Myers, a prominent lawyer of that city, and a former resident of this County [Chenango Co. NY], by the hand of Col. W.G. Terrell, also of that city.

The assassin, who bears an unenviable reputation, had by his brutal conduct compelled his wife to separate from him, and she had commenced proceedings to obtain a divorce, employing Myers as her counsel.  Some questions asked by him, while taking the depositions of the witnesses in the case, have been repeated to Terrell.  He became exasperated and hurried to Myers' office on the fatal morning, where high words passed between them. Terrell using gross and insulting language.  Myers ordered him to leave the room, which he refused to do, when Myers undertook to put him out.  While shoving him towards the door Terrell drew a pistol and fired at Myers, shooting him in the abdomen. The wounded man staggered back into his office, fell upon the floor, and died in twenty minutes.  Terrell was at once arrested and lodged in jail and the coroner's jury found a verdict in accordance with the above facts.

My Myers was born in Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], in this County, in 1826.  His parents were poor, and he had but few advantages in early life, his education being such as the common school of his native town afforded.  He moved to Kentucky in 1851, and taught school for a short time, meanwhile pursuing the study of law.  In 1853 he entered a law office in Covington and was admitted to practice in 1854.  As a lawyer, he was one of the most prominent in the State of Kentucy, having a large practice in the Court of Appeals and in the U.S. Courts.  He frequently acted as Judge pro tem in the Circuit Court when cases were before that tribunal in which the judge of the Court was interested.  He was elected to the State Legislature in 1865, but declined to serve on the ground that the election was not a free one, but that the voters were under the coercion of Federal bayonets.  In 1872 he ran for Congress on the republican ticket and was defeated by Judge Arthur.  In business he was successful, having amassed a considerable estate from a large and remunerative practice, estimated at $65,000.  He leaves a wife and six young children.  

A meeting of the members of the bar was held in Covington on the 30th ult., to express their feelings over the loss of Mr. Myers.  Fifty lawyers were present, besides a large number of citizens of Covington, Newport and Cincinnati.  Never in that part of the country has a bar meeting been held in which more deep emotion was shown by speakers and hearers, that this.  Many a strong man shed tears as the pitiable loss was brought out in the strongest language of eloquent men, and the many virtues of the deceased were enumerated.

We copy from the published proceedings of this meeting, the remarks of C.D. Foote, Esq.:

"I believe I knew Mr. Myers thoroughly.  For a number of years I was in the same office with him. All that has been said of him has not told the whole truth.  I went into that office on his invitation, almost a stranger to him. We were there over a year before I had any further conversation with him, for he was always full of labors and did not rest to talk when it interfered with his duties to his clients. After we were together about a year, he happened to commence talking to me one day and we found that we were born int he same county [Chenango Co. NY].  He said his grandmother was a Foote, and we found that the same blood ran in our veins.  From that time on we have had perhaps a warmer feeling for each other than before.  I never in all my intercourse with him saw him deviate from the truth and the highest integrity.  He would never do anything that he did not believe to be true and right."

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, April 1874 (continued)

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, April 1, 1874

Marriage

MORGAN - MATTESON:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], on 26th March, by Rev. L.D. Turner, Mr. E.S. Morgan to Miss Sarah Matteson, both of North Brookfield [Madison Co. NY].

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 2, 1874

Marriage

At Whitney's Point [Broome Co. NY], March 12th, by Rev. J.W. Hewitt, Mr. Frederick M. Heath and Miss Frances E. Congdon, both of Barker [Broome Co. NY].

Deaths

In Towanda, Pa., Feb. 19th, of disease of the heart, Sarah A. [Mercur] widow of H.S. Mercur, and daughter of the late Samuel Guernsey, of Oxford, N.Y., aged 58 years.

Fatal Accident

On Thursday evening last, John Powers, a resident of Smithville Flats [Chenango Co. NY], was returning from Smithville Flats to his home some three miles from that place.  While on his way he was thrown from his horse and received wounds of a horrible and ghastly nature, supposed to have been caused either by the horse stepping on his face or kicking him.

The unfortunate young man's face was literally crushed in.  His upper jaw was broken in such a manner that it dropped down.  His nose was broken and pushed over on one side of his face, and the roof of his mouth was broken into fragments of eight different pieces.

In this horrible plight he was taken to Mr. Robert Willson's house nearby, and on Saturday morning he was removed to Smithville Flats, where he could have better care.  Physicians were summoned, who did everything in their power to restore the young man, but their efforts were vain.  He lingered along, in an unconscious state, until Saturday evening, when death ended the scene.  Mr. Powers was a large and powerful young man, and his injuries must have been of the severest nature, to have snapped the vital chord in so short a space of time.

His widowed mother, well advanced in years, resides in this village.  This is a terrible blow to her, as this son was her main support in the declining years of her life.

Additional News Item - Smithville correspondent

Eds. American:  On Thursday evening of last week, a fatal accident occurred a little north of this village, the unfortunate man being John Powers.  Mr. Powers left this place late in the evening, with a colt that he had been training for some time previous, a business that Mr. Powers has followed for the past few years, during the winter season.  He left the village on horseback, going north on the McDonough road, until he passed the house of Robert Wilson, when, to use his own language, he thought he would walk, as the grade was descending and the colt light.  Passing the bridle rein over his arm, he went but a short distance, when the colt became frightened, made a sudden lunge, and hit him in the face, completely severing the upper lip from the roof of the mouth, breaking it into several pieces, leaving the face one horrible mass of mangled flash and bones.  Doctors Purdy and Wood did all that medical skill could suggest, but their treatment was of no avail.  He lingered along until Saturday evening, when death put an end to his sufferings.  Mr. Powers was about thirty years of age, of immense stature and iron constitution He leaves an aged mother, who resides in the village of Greene.  She has the sympathy of the entire community.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, April 4, 1874

Death

LOOMIS:  On the 24th ult. in this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], at the residence of E.G. Whitney, of brain fever, Lewis D. [Loomis], son of Dr. D. Loomis of Bay City, Mich, aged 4 years 10 months and 2 days.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, April 4, 1874

Deaths

SMITH:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], on the 1st inst., Pamelia [Smith] consort of Stillman Smith, aged 41 years.

SWEET:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], on the 1st inst. of congestion of the lungs, Hannah [Sweet] wife of James K. Sweet, aged 61 years.

DEMUNN:  In Brooklyn, on the 29th of March, of Bright's disease of the kidneys, Mr. B.M. DeMunn aged about 36 years.

NEWTON:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], on the 29th ult. of congestion of the lungs, Maria L. [Newton] wife of Lawrence Newton, aged 35 years.

Maria L. Smith was born Nov. 25th, 1838.  Since early childhood she has been in delicate health and thereby obtained more attention and affection from the inmates of her home.  In 1865 she was married to Lawrence Newton and has been to him a faithful companion.  She was a loved and a loving member of her home.  Her counsel was sought in matters of interest to the family.  They know her worth - a stranger intermeddieth not with the sacred affairs of the home circle.  Some 18 years since she publicly professed a faith in Jesus Christ the Savior of sinners and her life has been consistent with that profession.  Her voice has often cheered her home with song and has often been heard in the sanctuary of her God.  Less than three weeks before her death she sang at the funeral services of a child, who though young was much loved.  The following hymn was sung:

"A few more prayers, a few more tears - / It won't be long, it won't be long; / A few more months, a few more years / Will hush my song, this earthly song, / And then I shall sleep in the valley."

At the rehearsal she was completely overcome and could not sing.  Yet no one supposed that in less than the shortest time mentioned in the hymn she would be "laid to rest in the valley."  The casket of her soul was deposited in the earth with a well-founded hope that, though it was sown in corruption, it would be raised in incorruption and inhabit a home in the heavens.

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Our community was startled last Friday afternoon by the sudden, although not unexpected announcement of the death of Maria, wife of Lawrence Newton, of this village.  Mrs. Newton was taken sick on Wednesday, the 18th ult., but no danger was at first apprehended by her family.  As she gradually grew worse, Dr. Yale, the family physician was summoned, who pronounced her disease congestion of the lungs.  In spite of all her medical treatment, she rapidly grew worse, and at 4:05 on the afternoon referred to above, she departed this life in the most excruciating agony, with her weeping family and friends at her bedside.  Mrs. Newton was an affectionate and devoted wife, a tender mother, a true and noble Christian woman, and her death falls heavily on her remaining loved ones, as well as upon the community in general.  As a last mark of esteem for the departed, our citizens turned out in vast numbers at her funeral which was attended from the house on Monday of this week, being conducted by Rev. D.N. Grummon, pastor of the Presbyterian Chruch of which she has long been a loved member.  The bereaved family have the sympathies of the community.

A Card:  My heartfelt thanks are due to the large number of sympathizing friends who so kindly and constantly offered their services to sooth the pillow of my beloved and affectionate daughter, while grim disease was wracking her emaciated form so terribly.  That they may, when the Master calls them, be attended by as willing hands and loving hearts is the sincere wish of her bereaved father.  A.B Smith

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Golden Wedding of Aaron Parker & Nancy Minor

Chenango American, Greene, NY, Jan 29, 1874

The 50th anniversary of Rev. and Mrs. A. Parker's marriage on the 22d [January], was an occasion of deepest interest to all who were in attendance.

The delicate condition of Mrs. Parker's health made it necessary to confine the invitations to relatives of the family, and of these, about thirty were present. The family deeply regret the absence of Gideon Minor, only surviving brother of the bride, now seventy-three years of age, and residing in Binghamton.  Of all the guests present, none would have been missed more than this brother; however, while he was detained, he sent a beautiful gift.

The morning of the day appointed came on bright and glorious, and as it had been raining for a day or two previous, this was considered especially encouraging.

The house was appropriately trimmed for the occasion, Mr. Charles D. Parker, of Binghamton, grandson of the happy groom, having come to Greene, the day previous and acted as Superintendent in General of the Decoration Department.  In the front parlor there were beautiful festoons of evergreen, from the chandelier to each of the four corners of the room, each fastened by a wreath and knot, while on the south side wall, were arranged in evergreen work, the dates, 1824 and 1874 - and between them in a half-circle, the name Parker.  In this room, were two prominent points of interest.

On one side, was a small, old-fashioned stand, and on it, a simple white covering, trimmed with old style edging, snuffers and tray - brass candlestick and candle, and a few very old hymn books and a Bible; articles which (with exception of the candle) were the bride's possessions, 50 years ago.

On the opposite side of the room, was a stand of more recent architecture, for the reception of gifts, and among them we noticed a pair of gold framed spectacles, gold lined goblets, gold pan and holder, and a fine, gold headed cane, which was presented by the son, Dea. M.S. Parker, the grandson, Chas. D. Parker and N.H. Short, Esq., of Binghamton, son-in-law of the bridal pair, by his first marriage.  We understand the value of all articles presented to be about $70.00.

In one of the sitting rooms, we noticed on the wall, the two dates, 1824 and 1874, in gold bronze, on a white background, surrounded by a wreath of evergreen, and a bureau and mirror, each more than one hundred years old, trimmed with wreaths.  It is worthy of notice, that the linen spread on the bureau was more than 60 years old, and was spun by the bride, in the far away time.  When to sit at the distaff, with innocent face, and watch the bright spindle, was not a disgrace.

It was deeply regretted by all that Mrs. Parker was not well enough to leave her room, but, during the entire day, was obliged to keep her bed.  Her cheerful face, and pleasant voice, would have added much to the enjoyment.

In the dining room, tasteful decorations on every side met the eye, but, for a season, the greatest interest was manifested in the sumptuous feast, which the son, Dea. M.S. Parker and his estimable lady had spread for the guests.  If, during the day, any one thing failed to receive proper attention, it was not the dinner.

On one end of the table, was a decanter, with the word RUM, in large letters on its side, and over it the date, 1824 and around it stood ready glasses (It was empty).

At the other end of the table, was a large glass pitcher, with the word WATER on its side and over it the date, 1874 on its side, and around it stood ready goblets (It was full).  The groom stated, that at weddings 50 years ago, it was not thought amiss to become a little exhilarated, by strong drink.  Mark the change.  After the bounties had been served, until each guest, felt like exclaiming "It is enough," the company adjourned to the parlor to enjoy reminiscences and historical sketches of the family, and engage in appropriate exercises.

First in order, two old hymns, which were sung at the wedding, 50 years ago - each having something to say about "Aaron's head," or "Aaron's beard," were sung by the entire company, in the tunes that were used then, Northfield and St. Thomas, a sister of the groom, 83 years of age, chiming in with a sweet voice, that could be distinctly heard amid the thirty voices.  The following article, which had been prepared for the occasion, was read by C.D. Parker, and was well received:

There was in Coventry more than 50 years ago, an old log house Mr. John Minor built.  He had a daughter, Nancy, who more than 50 years ago lived at home in the old log house her father built.

It so happened, that about that time, one Aaron Parker, began to call pretty often at the old log house Mr. Minor built.  What attractions drew him there, we do not say, but it came to pass that on the 24th of Jan'y 1824, the said Aaron Parker, and Nancy Minor, were married in the old log house the bride's father built.  And they have lived together to the present today as the bride and groom of 50 years ago.

There are now living one brother and one sister of the bride, and two sisters of the groom, who were present at the wedding, 50 years ago, in the old log house the bride's father built; two of whom are here today.  And there are present, here today six that were guests at the wedding 50 years ago in the old log house.

But the minister, who officiated at the wedding, in the old log house, 50 years ago, with many a loved one, fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters dear, and most of the guests who were there - have gone to their rest, in the Gold City above, to dwell forever in the house their heavenly Father built.

And now may the bridal pair, who were married in the old long house 50 years ago, with all who are here today be permitted at length to walk the golden streets of the new Jerusalem to join with loved ones who have gone before in ascriptions of praise to God and the Lamb forever.

Then, the Rev. Groom, was called upon to read a portion from his autobiography, touching upon his courtship and marriage, which was timely and heartily enjoyed.  Then followed the reading of a letter from a brother-in-law and family, in Minnesota, who could not be present, but who sent kind words and beautiful gifts.  Next came the reading of an obituary, written at the death of Luman Parker, a brother of the groom, who died 40 years ago, in the triumphs of a living faith in Christ.

Rev. J.E. Sage, Pastor of the Baptist church in Greene, having consented to write a poem, for the occasion, next read his production.

During all these exercises, a deep religious feeling - profound, thankfulness to God - and the manifest presence of the Divine Spirit - were prominent.  And when with the singing of Coronation and the Doxology, called for by two of the guests, and with earnest prayer, the anniversary exercises were closed.  It was understood by all, as one of the most delightful occasions, over enjoyed.

J.H. Sage

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, April 1984

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 2, 1874

Marriages

LINDSAY - SMITH:  At the residence of the bride's mother, in Watertown [Jefferson Co. NY], March 24th, by Rev. LM.S. Haynes, of Norwich, Rev. A. Lindsay, pastor of the Baptist Church in South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Mary E. Smith, of Watertown.

KENDRICK - HILL:  At the residence of Hiram Adams, Esq., in Flint, Mich., March 4th by Rev. J. Horton, Mr. A.C. Kendrick of Monroe, Mich., to Miss Cornelia E. Hill, of New Berlin, N.Y. [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

WOODS:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 27th, Sarah A. [Woods], wife of John Woods, aged 47 years.

PERTILLA:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 26th, Charlie [Pertilla] son of William H. and Betsey Pertilla, aged 1 year and 2 months.

SALSMAN:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 31st, Henry Adelbert [Salsman], son of John H. and Luzina Salsman, aged 3 years and 5 months.

ROBERTS:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 26th, Clifford [Roberts] son of John C. and libbie Roberts, aged 19 days.

McNITT:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 26th, at the residence of her brother-in-law, Alpheus Smith, Miss Prudence McNitt, aged 63 years.

LANE:  In Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY], March 23d, John A. [Lane], son of Daniel W. Lane, aged 10 years, 8 months and 9 days.

THORNTON:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], March 16th, Catharine [Thornton, wife of Thomas Thornton, aged about 40 years.

ADAMS:  In East Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], March 26th, Ruth [Adams], wife of Chauncey Adams, aged 45 years.

ROOME:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], March 28th, Mrs. Phebe Roome, aged 63 years.

SWIFT:  In Beaver Meadow [Chenango Co. NY], March 16th, of congestion of the lungs, Ida L. [Swift], daughter of Ethan S. and Cornelia B. Swift, aged 1 year, 6 months and 10 days.

This little bud, so young and fair, / Called home by early doom, / Just came to show how sweet a flower / In paradise could bloom. 

The little form we loved so well, / Grew like the marble, cold and white; / But round her lips there lay a smile, / After the spirit took its flight.

Newell D. Whitney, formerly a young and promising lawyer of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], died of consumption at Jackson, Pa. on the 24th ult.

Michael Atwood died in Georgetown [Madison Co. NY], on the 21st ult. aged ninety-seven years and six months.  He settled on his farm in 1805 and built the first sawmill in town in 1806.

H.C. Babcock, of Chittenango [Madison Co. NY], died at the hospital in Troy [Rensselaer Co. NY], Tuesday.  His body was taken home for burial.

Reuben Crumb, aged about seventy years, who resides one mile south of DeRuyter village [Madison Co. NY], died suddenly on Monday morning of last week, supposed to be from heart disease.

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Nicholas J. Sliter, closed his earthly pilgrimage in hope of a glorious immortality, at Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY], March 13th, 1874, aged 86 years, 7 months and 22 days.

Mr. Sliter opened his eyes for the first time to the lights and shadows of this inconstant world, at Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY], July 21, 1785.  His mother was granddaughter of Rev. Mr. Johnson, a Presbyterian divine, who was the first settler in that village.  In 1778, just seven years previous to his birth, the famous Indian chief, Joseph Brandt, made a raid up the valley from Oquago, drove off the inhabitants, and made his headquarters for a time at what he called "Tunadilla."  His mother fled with the inhabitants to Cherry Valley for safety.

At the time of his birth, there was not a single inhabitant within the present limits of the town of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY].  The whole country was an unbroken wilderness in which wild beasts and savage Indians roved at large.  What wonderful changes have come over the face of nature, within the circle of his vision, since that day, and what changes have occurred among the different nations of the earth!  Then Washington, Napoleon, and George III, were alive and famous together with many other celebrities who live now only in history.

In those days, boys were accustomed to toils and hardships, which imparted to them great strength and good health, and this may account in a great measure for the good constitution and long life of the departed octogenarian.

Mr. Sliter and his bereaved companion were united in marriage in 1819, almost fifty-five years ago, but as the closest unions must be broken up, and the strongest ties be severed, so they are separated at last by the cold river of death - but not long, for she will soon follow him to the land of spirits, where we fondly hope they many dwell in a union that shall never be broken up, and where partings never come. She may truly say in the words of another--

"My latest run is sinking fast, / My race is nearly run; / My strongest trials now are past, / My triumph is begun."

Mr. Sliter embraced the religion of Christ in his nineteenth year or nearly seventy years ago, and united with the Presbyterian Chruch at Sidney Plains.  He was a true and faithful member of that Church until about twenty-five years since, when he changed his relation, and became a member of the M.E. Church at Rockdale.  He remained in this Chruch until death released him, and now has joined the Church triumphant in Heaven.  He was a faithful Christian at all times and in all places. For a few years past he has not been able to take as active a part in public worship, as formerly, increasing infirmities rendering it necessary for him to tarry at home except in most pleasant weather.  But he found God at home and served him most faithfully.  Several weeks since, learning that he was quite feeble, I called upon him, and in conversation found he was trusting fully in the grace and mercy of God, and he maintained this trust to the last moment.

When I saw him again, he was so weak as to be unable to converse even with his dearest friends, but when I sang and prayed with him, he lay quiet with the exception of an effort to raise his hands as if in devotion to God.  He no doubt had his reason to the last, and the last words he uttered to his son, William Sliter, were, "I'm happy!"  His feelings could he have expressed them, would doubtless have been - 

"I'm happy, I'm Happy, O wonderous account, / My joys are immortal, I stand on the mount; / I gaze on my treasures and long to be there, / With Jesus and angels, my kindred so dear."

Thus, the aged "man of God" lived and died, and now dwells in that "house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens."

For the last thirteen years he has resided with his son, William Sliter, where he found a pleasant home and kind treatment.  His wants were all supplied and during his last illness he received all the attention and care that a faithful son could bestow upon a parent.  God will bless and honor the love and care of children for their aged parents.  May his blessing rest upon the son and his family.

An affectionate husband, a kind father, a good neighbor, and a devoted Christian man has gone from us.  May those that weep remember that their loss is his eternal gain.  May we all meet him again on the other side of the cold river.

Mt. Upton, March 13, 1874, S.W. Weiss

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Killed by the cars:  The through freight train south on the D.L.&W. Railroad, which left this station at 9:30 on Tuesday evening, ran over a man a short distance below Greene [Chenango Co. NY], about midnight.  The engineer thought at the time that there was some obstruction on the track but did not stop his train.  Upon reaching the Chenango Forks station, he left word to have the engineer on the morning train north keep a lookout for whatever there might be upon the track.  the body of a man was found by those on the morning train, at the point indicated, the head having been cut completely off by the car wheels.  from what little we can learn, it appears that the name of the deceased was  Abram Herron; that he was a stranger in Greene; that he had been lounging about the depot in that village on Tuesday evening, and was ordered to leave when the time for closing came; and that he started down the track, evidently intoxicated, and probably had lain down upon the track when the engine struck him. the body was brought to Greene on Wednesday morning, and Coroner Hand summoned to hold  and inquest.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, April 2, 1874

Marriage

HALL - ANGELL:  At Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], March 26, 1874, by Rev. D.W. Bigelow, at the parsonage, James Hall and Maggie Angell, both of Cuyler, N.Y. [Cortland Co.].

Deaths

Mr. Justus Ackley, died in Rome [Oneida Co. NY] on Sunday last, aged nearly 103 years.  Mr. Ackley was for twelve or fourteen years a resident of Peterboro, Madison County, where he assisted in building the Smith mansion for the father of Gerrit.  For the last several years of his life, Mr. Ackley has been accustomed to take long walks almost daily, often extending them to two or three miles.  He died of putrid erysipelas.

Mrs. John Head, aged 62 years, died at her residence in Lebanon [Madison Co. NY], on Thursday last.  Mrs. Head has been afflicted with a cancer on the breast over two years.  About eighteen months ago, Dr. Bellows, of Norwich, cut it out. The wound thus made soon healed, and for some months the cancer was thought to be permanently cured.  But a little more than a year ago it again made its appearance, since which time she has been gradually failing.  Patiently and calmly she bore her afflictions, until death came to her relief.

The wife of Michael Wall, living about five miles north of DeRuyter village [Madison Co. NY], on a farm known as the Abbott farm, in Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] died suddenly on Saturday last, while riding with her husband in their buggy toward home. The cause of her decease is supposed to be apoplexy.

Story of the Cook Family & Thornbrook Hall by Mary Adaline Cook

 The Cook Family and Thornbrook Hall

by Mary Adaline Cook

Norwich Sun, Norwich, NY, March 10, 1949

Muller Hill Castle near Georgetown [Madison Co. NY] and Thornbrook Hall at South Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], both rich in historical lore, are names well known to residents of this city [Norwich] and county [Chenango Co. NY].  In a paper prepared by Mary Adaline Cook of Thornbrook Hall and delivered before a meeting of the Chenango County Historical Society in her home, she quotes her brother, the late George Cook, as telling her that the man who called himself Muller often visited at Thornbrook Hall.  He quoted their great-grandfather as saying he knew he was Charles the X, King of France.

The paper given by Miss Cook is of wide interest.  It is of the history of Thornbrook Hall and of the antecedents and descendants of David and Alice Cook who built and occupied the original house, "parts of which ingrafted into the present residence. The data given here," writes Miss Cook, "I have gotten by word of mouth from members of the Cook family, from the Wells family antiquity, in which was the genealogy of the Cook family in this country down to the marriage of David and Alice Cook;  Also, the Bradford genealogy.  Both of these books I found in the Boston Public Library, also in Burke's Peerage, the Cook family were noted."  Miss Cook writes as follows:

Right after the War of the Revolution, David and Alice Cook, my great-grandfather and great-grandmother, came to this locality from Washington county, where they first intended to locate. They moved to Washington county from Rhode Island, either Tiverton or Newport, or in that locality.  My grandfather, Abial Cook, was born in Washington county, I see by his obituary printed in the Chenango Union of May 12, 1869.  At one time my Aunt, Maria Cook, my father Walter Cook's oldest sister, gave me the names of all the brothers and sisters of my grandfather, Abial Cook. This record was lost when my large bungalow burned in Southern Pines, N.C., December 1, 1941.  All my genealogical papers were destroyed at that time.

First, I will speak of some of the antecedents of David and Alice Cook.  The first of the family of which I have any records was Edward Coke (pronounced Cooke) the great lawgiver of England.  In the time of his grandson, I think it was, the second "o" was inserted into the name, which was pronounced Cook and spelled C-o-o-k-e.  This grandson of Edward Coke, as I remember, was the first of the family to have the title of Earl of Leicester. When the male members of the Cook family left England, and later when they threw in their fortunes with the Revolutionary forces, the title went back to the English crown.  Later Queen Victoria conferred it on Thomas William Cooke of Holcomb Hall, who was a descendant of the Cookes through the female line, he being the son of Anne Cook Roberts.  A book given my brother, George, by an English lady, when we lived in Palermo, Sicily, entitled "Thomas William Cook of Holcomb Hall", give a most fascinating account of the life of Thomas William Cooke, his magnificent home, Holcomb Hall on the North Sea, and it especially speaks of one granddaughter, the most beautiful of the grandchildren and the most loved by her grandfather.  She was brought up in a very simple manner in the country, as the children of the English nobility are, knowing nothing of the world.  At the age of fifteen her mother took her to London, introduced her in society, and married her, against the remonstrance of her grandfather, to the Lord Ellenborough, a man twice her age, and of a very dissolute character. She was thrown into the company of a very gay and fast set of people. Among those who frequented her husband's home was a young man, an attaché of one of the continental embassies.  He and the Lady Ellenborough fell in love with each other and eloped to the continent.  Her lover deserted her.  She was left alone, young and beautiful, and evidently with plenty of money. She had many adventures and was much sought after.  Louis, the mad king of Bavaria, was deeply enamored of her and had her portrait painted and caused it to be hung in the Munich gallery. At the age of 50, still looking very young and very beautiful, she, with a party of English friends, was crossing the desert.  They were overtaken by a band of Arabs whose leader was a young Arab sheik of 25 years.  He and the Lady Ellenborough fell desperately in love with each other and were determined to marry.  Her English relatives objected so strongly to the marriage that they threatened to incarcerate her if she persisted in her idea of marriage.  So, it was finally agreed she and her Arab sheik would wait a year.  In that time she learned the Arabic language and at the expiration of the year, the couple were married by the Moslem authorities, with the marriage agreement that they were to live six months in Damascus, she living the life of a cultured English lady with her books, her music and her paintings about her, and six months of the year were to be passed in the desert, she living the life of an Arab woman, washing her husband's feet and performing different menial duties.  It was said she lived to the age of 70, still very beautiful and very young looking, adored by her Arab husband, who at her death was inconsolable.  On her tomb was written "He who is without sin, let him cast the first stone."  I think the moving picture "The Sheik" must have been patterned after the true story of the Arab Sheik and the Lady Ellenborough.

Before I leave the story of this branch of the Cooke family in England, the book aforementioned recounts how one time when there was a famine in England, Thomas William Cooke fed all England off his wheat fields.  Thomas William Cooke was a distinguished statesman, a particular friend of Pitt and Fox and much in sympathy with the colonies.  He told King George he would lose his colonies if he continued in his asinine policy.

Now to come to the genealogical records of the Cook family in this country.  The first of the family was Captain Thomas Cooke, who came over some time before the Revolution in the very early days. The Cookes came from Earls Colin in England, according to Wells and Burke's Peerage.  David and Alice Cook aforementioned, were distantly related, both descendants of Captain Thomas Cook.  Cook's father and mother were Abial Cooke and Mary Bradford, she being a daughter or granddaughter of Governor Bradford of Rhode Island, who was a grandson of Governor William Bradford of the Plymouth Colony.  My Aunt Maria said that when David and Alice Cook moved to Washington county, they had much of the Bradford china with them, which was broken in transit.  They must have kept some of the furniture, as the bed in my room belonged to Governor William Bradford of Plymouth, Mass.  This my aunts gave to my brother George when my aunts wished to dispose of the old furniture and get newer style at that time.

When David Cook came to this locality, he engaged to buy three farms, I have been told, this creek farm, another the Brooks farm up above Clark Doing's, and still another perhaps the Hill farm or the Aster lot as they were called.  I am not certain about these farms, I know in my grandfather, Abial Cook's time, the family owned about 500 acres of farmland as well as the Norwich property. This we had until after my father, Walter Cook's death.  David Cook, before he came to these parts, had loaned the Revolutionary government, the bulk of his fortune, about $100,000, and took as security Continental paper money which the government later repudiated. This money was kept in the Abial Cook house on East Main Street, Norwich.  At one time, when my father was going to Washington, D.C., he looked for the money, thinking he might get the U.S. Government to make some adjustment, and upon inquiry found my Aunt Jane had burned it up.  She said she didn't want the old stuff around.

David Cook sent my grandfather, Abial Cook, back to Rhode Island to get the gold to pay for the farms he had bought. Abial went on horseback, by marked trees, and it was found when he returned with the money, an Aldrich had slipped in and gotten one of the farms, so the name of Aldrich was not liked by the family.  One time I said to Florence Aldrich, "Did you know we are enemies?'  She didn't. Then I told her the story.

There were quite a number of the family who lived on the farm here in my great-grandfather's time.  I have heard my Aunt Maria speak of Aunt Polly, whose home was on the flat on the lefthand side of the state road going toward Norwich, after you cross the South Plymouth bridge. Then there was Aunt Alice Benson, and I don't know what others.  There was a brother, Calib Cook who I heard my Aunt Maria mention.  He might have been the father of John P. Cook, who I think I have been told, was born in this house. This cousin, John P. Cook, and my father always kept up a correspondence. At one time I remember they exchanged photographs of their children.  John P. Cook, my father said, went to Michigan when a young man, with a set of carpenter's tools.  I have been told he laid out the village of Hillsdale, started the bank and was a founder of Hillsdale college.  He also laid out other nearby villages, started banks, etc.  A cousin told me he made two fortunes, the second of which the family inherited.  William Cook, one of his sons, went to New York city, married a Miss Ida Olmstead, practiced law, became a distinguished corporation lawyer and wrote a book on Corporation law, a textbook for lawyers.  His first gift to Michigan University was $250,000 for a girls' dormitory, in memory of his mother, Martha Cook. Afterward, while living, he gave a million dollars to the university and in his will left his fortune of twenty million to the university.  Ability for the law was very great in him, as it was in Edward Coke, his ancestor. The profession of the law and the love of the land seem to have come down the generations of the Cooks and the Bradfords.  My grandfather, Abial Cook, was a distinguished criminal lawyer. To quote from his obituary, "A desire to secure for himself a proper education, induced him to seek at Clinton the facilities his own neighborhood was not prepared to furnish.  I have always understood he was educated at Union College, Schenectady.  In the case of Guy C. Clark, who was tried for murder at Ithaca in 1932, I quote, "In this case his eloquent appeal to the jury was said to have excelled anything of its kind ever before heard in this section of the state."  His love for the beauties of nature and natural objects was remarkable and, in his speeches, he was able from this source to draw illustrations with telling effect. 

My father, Walter Abial Cook, studied law and was admitted to the bar when he was 16.  He, like his father, was a great lover of nature and I once heard him say "Who can doubt the existence of a God when they see all nature about them."  My brother, George, who afterward became an artist and whose paintings fill this house, had marked oratorical ability.  My father was very anxious he should become a lawyer, as he said George could sway any jury with his voice.  However, my brother, George said he did not want to settle other people's squabbles.  It was all he could do to settle his own.  To illustrate his remarkable memory - as a child of two and a half, he recited Marco Boyaris from beginning to end before visitors.  Many things my brother George has told me about this place.  He said there was a moat around the original house and Indian arrowheads were found in the grounds.  He also said our grandfather or great-grandfather knew the man who called himself Mueller, of whom the book "Muller Hill" by Harriet McDougal Daniels was written, and he knew he was Charles X of France, who often came to this house.  when the Cook family left this family home, I don't know, but our grandfather, Abial Cook, established himself in Norwich, where he practiced his profession of the law.

My earliest memory, farm tenants were living on this place.  I heard my Aunt Maria speak of the Giles who lived here in my grandfather's time - "very nice people."  This Mr. Giles' grandson, Rufus Giles, with his wife, were tenants in my time and Mr. Giles now comes and helps me with repairs, etc. on the buildings whenever he can do so.

After my father's death, my brother George proposed the family move "up to the farm" as we called it and restore the place to something of its original idea.  As we were going away winters and were through with the public schools, he saw no object in our further living in Norwich. At that time the tenant occupied a part of this house, the east side, the old part.  My father always came up frequently to see to the farms and sometimes to run them if we had no tenant. When my brother Walter, was a young man he wanted to buy some land to put up a sawmill just below the Stewart store and mill. The land belonged to Giles Sexton, an uncle of Leon Stewart.  Walter and Mr. Sexton had many meetings to talk about the subject.  Finally, Mr. Sexton said, "Walter, I think you are a nice young man and I might like to sell you the land, but probably you will marry and have a batch of young ones and they'll be trampling down my grass and your wife's hoop skirts will be trailing all over my meadows."  However, Mr. Sexton must have decided to take the chance for he sold Walter the land.  

At one time George and our friend Mrs. (Dr.) Mosher came up here to get something out of the house.  They stopped to eat midday meal which the tenant's wife served them.  As they were seated at the table, the woman said to Mrs. Mosher:  "I hear you're a doctor's wife."  "Yes," said Mrs. Mosher.  The woman said, "Do you know anything about tape worms?"  Mrs. Mosher, "I don't know as I do."  The woman disappeared from the room and came back bringing a glass jar which she planted on the table, saying "That's mine."  Before this she was consulting all the men about what to do for the tape worm. and thereon Holmes, who was quite a sport, suggested she send a ferret after it, which perhaps she did before it was shown in the glass can.

To tell a little more of this house and its development into the place it now is, some of the west portion was built on, then, George said, parts that had been taken off the original house and used for farm purposes he added on into parts he was building. A barn across the road was demolished, the present tenant house and the cow and horse barns were built, with work always going on to the farm and the buildings and many other things to do.  

George worked at his painting.  He began by painting on velvet, went to New Hampshire where he had classes and in Boston, and earned considerable money.  In Norwich he had taken some few lessons of Mrs. Theodore Hill, who he considered had a deep feeling for art.  He visited the great artists in Norwich, Mr. and Miss Wagner and was thrilled and inspired by their companionship and work.  In Boston.  He studied with Morgan Reiss, considered the best flower painter of his time there.  Also, with John J., Emmeking, landscape painter.  Then George decided he would go to Europe and in order to accomplish his purpose, he persuaded Dr. Mosher to tell father an ocean trip was the only thing that would restore his health.  So, father raised some money to help him, which, added to what George had earned, financed his trip.  Father said he should not go without introductions, so he procured a letter from President Cleveland to the then American Ambassador.  I think it was Bayard Taylor, who presented George at the Court of St. James, and invited him frequently to the Embassy. At that time in London George studied with the English artist Arthur Pope, instructor in South Kensington and the British Museum and considered by the Royal Academicians the most promising young artist of his time.  After this, George studied at Julian's Studio in Paris, with Harry Russ in London and other artists on the continent.  He exhibited in this country in the Ehrich Galleries, 5th Ave., New York, the New York Academy, Boston Art Club, Saint Botolple Club and other exhibitions.  He also exhibited in the Paris Salon and the World Exhibition in Milan, Italy.  He sold his pictures not only in this country, but in the European countries.  He told me his best markets were England and Germany.  After his death in Southern Pines, July 4, 1930, in the summer I was around the back of the house here, near the court and I thought I heard someone on the front tea porch.  I went around to the tea porch and there I saw a man and a woman trying to peer in at the windows.  They started when they saw me, and the man took out of his pocket quite a lengthy newspaper article of a Syracuse paper describing this place.  Giving the locality saying it was going to decay, was haunted and the artist who owned and occupied it had disappeared and no one ever knew what became of him.

In the last few years, I have brought up two colored boys from North Carolina to work for me.  The first, 15 or 16 years old, turned out to be a criminal.  The second said the "haints" bothered him, they drummed in his head, pulled his toes and pulled the bed clothes off from him, and a big colored woman appeared to him, and she said this was no place for him.  He also said he smelled burnt rubber, which was a very bad sign.  So, I said, "Willie, if you smell burnt rubber again, call across the court to me and my guest and I will get up and come around to your room and see if we smell burnt rubber."  Sure enough, he called about 1 or 2 a.m.  My friend and I got up, put on our dressing gowns and went around to where Willie was.  I declare if we didn't smell burnt rubber.  

I won't take time now to finish all the story about Willie but will recount what I consider a very amusing incident.  George was painting the portrait of Mrs. Egmont Brower of Utica.  His studio then was over the old library on the west side of the house.  It had a fireplace in it in which there was or had been a fire.  Mrs. Brower was sitting on the model stand near the fire.  She suddenly said: "George, I smell smoke."  "Don't move, May, don't move.  You are just in the pose I want you," said George. "But George, I smell smoke.  Flames are coming up around the hearth," and May called her husband, Egmont and together with George, chopping with an axe and pouring on water, they put out the fire.

One more word. There have been many distinguished and interesting people who from time to time have been house guests here.  Among them Mrs. Frank Leslie, Don Giovannie del Drago and wife and Don Francesco del Drago of Rome, Italy; the world-renowned dancer "La Loie" as the French affectionately called Loie Fuller.  

We have been frightened by the project of a dam which would destroy all this locality from down below the cemetery up to half way to Plymouth, the residents losing their homes, which are very dear to many of them and for which they have worked hard and sacrificed much; the village of South Plymouth with the two Stewart homes and their mill and store, their living, this historic place with all its association - for what purpose to build a dam which like the Smithville dam would be liable to break and in consequence all the west side of Norwich would be flooded.  It seems to me God's method of flood control was as good as man's, and He did it with trees to hold back the snows."

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, March 1874 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 26, 1874

Marriage

BROWN - BROOKS:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], March 17th, by Rev. E.W. Caswell, Ira S. Brown to Mrs. Lydia A. Brooks, both of Plymouth.

Deaths

DIMMICK:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 23d, Sophronia [Dimmick], wife of Oliver Dimmick, aged 58 years.

GREEN:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 22d, Mr. Joseph Green, aged 21 years.

EMERSON:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], March 22d, Eliza [Emerson] widow of the late Moses S. Emerson, aged 65 years.

BROWN:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], March 21st, Mr. Oliver C. Brown, aged 84 years, one of the early settlers in that town.

SLITER:  At Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY], March 13th, Mr. Nicholas J. Sliter, aged 89 years.

Mt. Upton:  Nicholas J. Sliter, an aged and highly respected citizen of this village, died the 13th inst.  He was born at Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY], in the year 1785, two years before the present town of Guilford contained a single inhabitant.  His parents were among the fugitives from the incursions of the celebrated Indian chief Brandt, on his raid up the Susquehanna Valley.

SEELEY:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], March 17th, Eliza [Seeley] wife of Hector Seeley, aged 74 years.

 COY:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], March 13th, Sally [Coy], wife of James Coy, aged 81 years, 3 months and 21 days.

VINTON:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], March 14th, Mrs. Florinda Vinton, aged 63 years and 3 months.

SEXSMITH:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 27th, Mr. Thomas Sexsmith, aged about 80 years.

HEAD:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], March 12th, Mrs. J.C. Head.

AKERLY:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], March 16th, Mary E. [Akerly], wife of A.M. Akerly.

SMITH:  Suddenly, in Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], March 14th, Mary [Smith] wife of Clark B. Smith, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], aged 75 years.

Mrs. Mary Smith, wife of Clark B. Smith, of Binghamton, formerly of this village, died very suddenly on Saturday morning, the 14th inst., from heart disease.  She was found by her husband in the bed, dead, the body being still warm.  She was an estimable lady, whose sudden decease will be mourned by a large circle of relatives and friends.  her age was seventy-five years.

MOULTER:  In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], March 19th, Mr. Michael Moulter, aged 74 years, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY]

The Binghamton papers announce the death in that city, on the 19th inst., of Michael Moulter, aged 74 years.  Many of our citizens will remember the deceased, as proprietor of the Eagle Hotel in this village [Norwich], something like twenty years ago.  He removed from this place to Binghamton in 1856, and was a different times connected with the Lewis House and American Hotel (now Cafferty House) and at the time of his death was keeping a boarding house.  Mr. Moulter was a soldier of the war of 1812, having entered the army at the early age of thirteen, as a substitute for his father.

Edith Wilson, the "child mother," eleven years of age, of Otego [Otsego Co. NY], has lost her baby, aged seven weeks and one day.  It departed this life on the 17th inst., after a brief but severe illness of congestion of the lungs.  Verdict of the Coroner's jury - "Died from natural causes."

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BARTOO:  In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], March 13th, Ida May [Bartoo], daughter of William and ruth Bartoo, aged 2 years, 4 months and 24 days.

On earth no mortal eyes / E'er shall behold her; / No more shall loving arms / Ever enfold her.

Tired were those little hands, / Clasped on her breast; / Voices we could not hear / Called her to rest.

Useless those falling tears, / With grief why repine? / Her lot is far happier, / Mourner, than thine.

Cherish her last good bye, / And bless the kind Giver, / Who'll call you to meet her / Far over the river.

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BROWN:  At East Troy, Wis. on the 11th inst., Mrs. J.S. Brown, aged 61 years, 5 months and 20 days.

Miss Julia Ann Riddell was born in Preston, Chenango County [NY], July 19th, 1812, and was the third child of a family of ten children, among whom are Mrs. H. P. Marion of this village [Norwich, Chenanog Co. NY], and Mrs. J.D. Marion of Preston.

In December 1830, she was married to John S. Brown, and commenced housekeeping at Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].  They afterwards moved to East Troy, Wis., where she remained until her death.  She possessed an extraordinary mind, and was a woman of marked and acknowledged ability, a leader in all good works in the community where she lived.  She was naturally of an amiable and cheerful disposition, and friends, neighbors and children all bear testimony, that never in a single instance was she known to show anger or malice. A lifelong follower of Christ, she had no fear of death, and during her last illness, she talked of death as calmly as of life, and said she only wanted that her children should feel willing that she should go and await their coming.  She said "she was standing on the brink of death," and twice called to her children to know whether "they could not hear that heavenly music and see that bright angel band."  Truly it does seem that she could look across "The River."  Her trust in the Saviour overcame all bodily suffering, and she passed away with a smile on her countenance, retaining her reason to the very last. S.S.R.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, March 26, 1874

Marriages

KOHN - HOPKINS:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], February 28, by Rev. D.E. Loveridge, Mr. A.E. Kohn, of Davenport, Iowa, to Miss Jennie Hopkins of this place [Norwich], formerly of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY].

CLARK - CURTIS:  At the house of Thomas Baldwin, in Lincklaen, Chenango County, N.Y., March 12, 1874, by Rev. A. Barrous, Jas. Clark of South Otselic [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Ardella Curtis, of Lincklaen.

Death

BOWERS:  In King's Settlement [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 26, 1874, Eva Bell Bowers, daughter of Wellsome and Cora Bowers, aged one year.

News Item

We last week gave to the readers of the Telegraph an account of the arrest of two young men of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], who were charged to have been principals or accessories in the murder of Mr. Edwards, at Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY], in September last. We also gave the facts upon which the officers alleged to have based their action, as they were given to us. We are to be able to say this week that the officers were wholly upon the wrong track, and that the young men are home again in the enjoyment not only of their liberty but of a perfect discharge not only from arrest but from all suspicion of any complicity in that horrible crime.

As we stated last week, Charles and Henry Montgomery were taken to Cooperstown, on Tuesday.  On Wednesday they were examined.  The hat relied upon as a clincher in the link of evidence was produced and tried on Charley, and behold it was three sizes too big for him.  The other matters relied upon also had no more foundation and were easily disproved.  Indeed, so convinced were the officers and the magistrate, of the erroneousness of their suspicions that the boys were examined, and so straightforward and truthful were their statements that they were discharged at once without the necessity of calling other witnesses. They returned to this place, and in an interview with them on Friday, they seemed well pleased with their treatment while in the hands of Sheriff Benedict, though not a little chagrined (and justly, too) that they had been subjects of suspicion, and that the reported evidence existing against them placed them in such a false position before the community.

We congratulate the boys upon their perfect vindication, and regret that we were the instruments of giving publicity to the suspicions and pretended evidence which caused their arrest, and we haste to make the amend honorable by giving them the benefit of this full contradiction.  The boys we understand have been industrious during the entire winter and during that time at least, as well as heretofore, as far as we know, have been guilty of no impropriety which should cause unjust suspicion to attack to them.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, March 25, 1874

Deaths

Wm. Brown, a farmer residing about four miles north of Otego village [Otsego Co. NY], was instantly killed on Thursday, March 5th, while at work in the woods.  Mr. Brown, with his hired man, had cut two trees, which lodged and were prevented from falling to the ground.  He (Brown) took his axe and reached under one of the trees to cut a sapling, and just at that time the trees gave way and fell to the ground, striking him and causing him to fall, face downward, with the tree on top of his head. The tree sprang back, so that the hired man released the victim, but life was extinct - death having evidently been produced instantly.

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BROWN:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], on 8th, Sarah Christine [Brown] daughter of Edwin F. and Ulyssa Brown, aged 14 months.

Lines addressed to Mr. and Mrs. E.F. Brown, on the death of their children:

Oft when we think the storm is past / And all seems calm and clear, / There follows yet another blast / More sudden and severe, / E'en like to this the storms of life / Your Dellie bore away / One trial passed another came, / No love of yours could stay.

In the dark silence of the tomb / Thy first and last born resteth now, / Their lives they yielded while its bloom / Was fresh upon their brows; / Though short the summons yet it came, / As comes the welcome home, / When wearied out with toil and pain / He could no longer roam.

Their spirits now from sorrow free / In realms of bliss they soar, / And in full light and liberty / Their Maker adores / Then, O, fond parents do not weep / Their absence here below; / In Jesus now they sweetly sleep / With glory on their brows.

May he who called them thus away / To realms of glory bright, / Be your support while here you stay, / And guide your minds aright, / And when with your life's work is done, / Your cares and toils are o'er, / May you with those before you gone, / Meet on the heavenly shore.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 26, 1874

Deaths

In this town (Page Brook) [Chenango Co. NY], March 18th, Mr. Moses Tuttle, aged 72 years, 7 months.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], March 20th, Mr. Hugh Skillen, aged 78 years and 7 months.

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], March 17th, Mr. Harmon Brooks, aged 72 years.

In Chenango Forks [Broome Co. NY], March 20th, wife of David Terwilliger.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, March 28, 1874

Marriage

NEFF - RANDALL:  In Masonville [Delaware Co. NY], on the 19th inst. by Rev. S. Manderville, Mr. Edward Neff, of Bennettsville [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Fannie E. [Randall] daughter of Robert Randall, esq., of Masonville.

Deaths

BURDICK:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], on the 22d inst., Mrs. Ruth Burdick, aged 36 years.

DAVIS:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], on the 21st inst. of consumption, Miss Sabra I. Davis.