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

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, October 15, 1874

Marriages

SUTTON - CLINE:  At the residence of the bride's mother, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Oct. 10th by Rev. Samuel Scoville, Mr. William Sutton, Jr., to Miss Mary Cline of this village.

ELLIOTT - HOLDREGE:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Oct., by Rev. J. Ward, Mr. Orrin Elliott to Miss Mabella Holdrege, both of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

BURLISON - STILES:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Oct. 8th, by W.B. Gunn, Esq., Mr. Deloss Burlison to Miss Adaline Stiles, all of Norwich.

ROSS - SLATER:  At the residence of the bride's father, in Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Oct. 8th, by Rev. J.W. LaMoine, Mr. Augustus Ross, Jr., of Preston [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Helen M. Slater, of Pharsalia.

BRADLEY - TWIGG:  At the residence of David Bush, in Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], Oct. 8th, by Rev. R.W. Caswell, Mr. Willard D. Bradley to Miss Eliza A. Twigg both of Guilford.

SHAW - CURTIS:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 28th, by Rev. J.C. Ward, Mr. Wallace D. Shaw of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Philina F. Curtis of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY].

WEAVER - BOWERS:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 9th, by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. George O. Weaver of Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Hannah M. Bowers of Oxford.

SMITH - BROWN:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], by Rev. D.W. Bigelow, Mr. John P. Smith of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY] to Miss Mary E. Brown, of Pitcher.

Death

HADLOCK:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Oct. 11th, Mrs. Maria Hadlock, a widow of the late Horace P. Hadlock, aged 75 years.

GRAVES:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Oct. 7th, suddenly, of paralysis of the heart, Roxana [Graves] wife of Lewis Graves, aged 61 years 3 months and 16 days.

BOWDEN:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], Oct. 9th, Annie [Bowden] daughter of Robert and Dolly Bowdon, aged 1 year and 4 days.

WEEKS:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Oct. 5th, Mr. Stephen Weeks, aged 61 years.

OLDS:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Oct. 4th, Mr. Morgan Olds, aged 61 years.

NORTH:  At Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY], Oct. 11th, Mr. George North, aged 50 years.

BARRITT:  In North Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], Oct. 3d, Mr. Thomas Barritt, aged 65 years.

Miss Julia Whitney, aged thirty-seven years was found dead in her bed on the morning of the 2d inst. at the residence of her father, two miles east of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY].  Heart disease.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, October 15, 1874

Marriages

GRISWOLD - BAGG:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], October 12th, by Rev. L.M.S. Haynes, Robert B. Griswold and Helen E. Bagg both of New Berlin.

Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY]:  Mr. and Mrs. Nelson Marsh had a China Wedding party [20th wedding aniversary], Monday evening, the 28th ult.  The display of presents was very fine. We noticed particularly a very beautiful gold band tea set, the gift of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Marsh and daughter.  At ten o'clock the guests sat down to a bountifully spread table, beautifully decorated with fruits and flowers, and judging by the excellence of the viands, we should say that the bride had profited by her twenty years' experience.  The delightful entertainment ended by all the guests joining in singing the lovely hymn "Praise God form whom all blessings flow," followed by an appropriate prayer by Rev. S.W. Weiss."  Morris Chronicle

Deaths

WHITE:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 22, Helen [White] only child of O.H. White, aged 8 months and 18 days.

"Weep not for those / Who sink within the arms of death / Ere yet the chilling wint'ry breath / Of sorrow o'er them flows

But weep for them who here remain. / The sorrowful heritors of pain. / Condemned to see each bright joy fade. / And mark grief's melancholy shade / Flung o'er Hope's fairest rose"

Thomas Barritt, a well-to-do farmer, who came here from Egland, died recently and was buried Oct. 4th at North Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY].

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 15, 1874

Marriages

At the Baptist Parsonage in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Oct. 11th, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Augustus E. Wheeler, of Greene, to Miss Mary E.  Miller, of Woodhull, Steuben Co. N.Y.

Also, at the same time and place, by the same, Mr. Frederick A. Miller to Miss Emma T. Smith, both of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

At the M.E. Parsonage in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 29th, by Rev. W.H. Gavitt, Mr. John W. Reid and Miss Juliette E. Mallory, both of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Oct. 12th, Mr.  Harriet [Robinson] wife of Delos Robinson and daughter of Daniel Rogers, aged 29 years, 8 months and 10 days.

In North Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], Oct. 8th, Mr. Joseph Turner, aged 84 years, formerly of Barker [Broome Co. NY].

In Colesville [Broome Co. NY], Oct. 2d, Susan Martin [Collington] wife of George Collington, aged 50 years.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, October 17, 1874

Marriages

Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], October 14th:  Editor Republican:  Mr. and Mrs. George Bulkley celebrated the 25th anniversary of their marriage at their residence on Friday, October 9th.  though nature withheld her smiles, the affair was one of great enjoyment.  A large number of chosen friends were present and all determined that a merry, good time should not be spoiled by the rain.  The parlors were tastily decorated and over the doors was arranged in large letters of evergreen the number "25."  After the usual ceremony had been pronounced and the ring appropriately placed upon the bride's hand, the company was invited to the dining room, where was a table groaning 'neath its load of luxuries, of which they showed their hearty appreciation. After refreshments two beautiful poems composed expressly for the occasion by Mrs. E. Barstow and Mrs. H. Benedict were read to the admiration of all present.  After numerous sentiments had been exchanged, the company again repaired to the parlors and merrily did the hours pass until the evening wore away.  Among the guests present was Mr. Wm. Pendleton, of Norwich, father of the bride, who, tho' he had breasted the storms of nearly eighty winters, stepped as firm and elastic as a youth of sixteen.  Also, other relatives of the family down to the fourth generation. The presents were rare and costly, embracing a coin silver tea set, forks, knives, spoons, and other articles.  Mr. Bulkley was born and had lived nearly 60 years upon the same farm and under the very roof where he now resides.  

Afton [Chenango Co. NY]:  Mr. and Mrs. Reuben Dean of this place, celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of their marriage at their residence on Monday evening of this week.  Nearly one hundred guests were present and among them several persons from abroad. We noticed Col. W.W. Snow, A.D. Smith and lady, of Oneonta, and two persons who witnessed the original ceremony in 1824.  Many valuable presents were bestowed upon the aged couple, amounting to upwards of $100.  The company was composed of old and young, and the occasion was made one of unstinted merriment. The venerable couple were unusually cheerful and entered into the games with a spirit of youthfulness seldom witnessed, seemingly "just as young as they used to be."  The couple whose Golden Wedding was thus celebrated were among the first settlers here, moving to this place from the "Green Mountain State" when the village consisted of but two or three log houses.  In the course of conversation, the bride remarked that she would be pleased to see all present twenty-five years from that time, as they intended to celebrate their Diamond Wedding, if nothing happened.  our earnest wish is that they may live to enjoy that occasion.

Death

Afton [Chenango Co. NY], October 15th, Editor Republican:  A sensation was caused in this community last Tuesday night by the startling announcement that the body of an unknown woman had been discovered lying in the water near the Bettsburgh dam on the Susquehanna River.  Indications proved that it had been in the water some time.  The wearing apparel of the deceased compared so well with the description in the Binghamton Times of an insane woman who had left her home and family in Lanesboro, Pa., and who was last seen at Nineveh Junction, that a messenger was immediately dispatched to inform the supposed husband, Mr. Botts, of the facts here given.  Mr. D.P. Steward kindly offered to perform this service. After the discovery of the body it was drawn up into a boat and left until the coroner could also be acquainted with the circumstance. This officer failing to appear by the following morning, a party composed of the Overseer of the Poor, Mr. Wilcox, Justice Hill, Jas. L. Green, Esq., Dr. P.A. Hayes, and the unfortunate husband repaired to the scene, where Mr. Botts recognized the body as that of his wife, Lora [Botts]. A jury was then empaneled, and the investigation commenced.  The following verdict was rendered:  The deceased came to her death by drowning while laboring under a fit of insanity.  The deceased was about 50 years of age. The husband procured a coffin, and the remains will be conveyed to Lanesboro tomorrow.

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

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, October 8, 1874

Marriages

BRYANT - CRUM:  At the residence of the bride's father, in Bath, Steuben Co. [NY], Sept. 29th, Dr. Joseph Bryant of New York, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Annette? A. Crum, all of the former place.

SHEPHERD -JAQUAY:  In West Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY], Sept. -?-, by Rev. D. Murey, Mr. Horace Shepherd to Miss Ellen M. Jaquay, both of Columbus [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

NOYES:  At Steamboat Hook, Iowa, Sept. 27th, Mr. William Noyes formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], aged 50 years, brother of Daniel and Thomas Noyes, of this place.

DUNNING:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 2d, Ellen [Dunning], wife of John Dunning aged 64 years.  Deceased was in feeble health for several years, and being assured that she must die, she gave parting advice to her children and bade goodbye to her friends around and trusting in the promises of her Savior, calmly and peacefully passed away.  'Our mother, how we miss her."

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The funeral of Edward Childs, who was killed on Tuesday of last week at the collision on the D.L.&W. Railroad, took place on Thursday afternoon last, the services being held at the residence of Mrs. B. Harris, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Rev. D.E. Loveridge officiating.  There was a large attendance of Knights Templar and Odd Fellows, of which organizations the deceased was an esteemed member, and of citizens generally, and the services were very impressive.

The remains of the boy Hickey, who was killed at the same time, were also buried on Thursday afternoon.

Orange W. Emmons, who was riding in the cab of the engine, and who was severely bruised and burned was removed from the residence of Mr. Rhodes, near the scene of the accident, to his home in this village, on Wednesday of last week.  Although his injuries are severe, hopes are entertained of his recovery.

Mrs. Faulkner, of Fish Creek, who left the Midland at this station, and took the valley road, fearing to cross Lyon Brook bridge, and who was badly injured, is still at the Chenango House in this village and recovering.

So far as we can learn, all others who were more or less injured by the collision are doing well.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, October 8, 1874

Deaths

DRAPER:  In Granby, Oswego County [NY], Sept. 25th, 1874, after an illness of five weeks, Mrs. Mary L. Draper, wife of John D. Draper, and daughter of Ambrose and Lucretia Thomson, formerly of Plymouth, Chenango County [NY], aged 20 years and 6 months.

________________________________

Died:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on Tuesday the 6th inst., after a lingering illness, Mrs. Hannah [Brown], widow of the late Eleazer Brown, aged 74 years.

Mrs. Brown was really a pioneer in our midst, for she was born in this town, just across the river and but a short distance from the house in which she died.  Her parents were Mr. and Mrs. Hascal Ransford, Sr., who it will be remembered were the first couple married in this town.  Mr. and Mrs. Brown lived here during their entire married lives, enjoying the respect and confidence of the entire community.  Since her husband's death, Mrs. B. has resided with her son-in-law, Hon. Russell A Young, upon the old homestead and during her long sickness has received from him and his family unremitting kindness and attention.  But she has passed away, gone to join the companion of her youth and the children that have gone before.  She leaves a memory cherished by all that knew her, and her Christian virtues and we believe she is now in the possession of the reward of the just.

Her funeral will take place today at 2 o'clock P.M., from the residence of Mr. Young.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, October 7, 1874

Death

The death of Fitch Ford, Esq., of this village [Franklin, Delaware Co. NY], was very sudden, on Friday night last.  He took tea with the family after which he laid down on the settee and went to sleep.  After some time, he awoke and went to his bedroom, undressed himself and retired.  He made no noise whatever, with the exception of coughing once or twice, which his daughter, Mrs. Edward Abell, heard.  Just before Mrs. Abell was to retire, she went to his room and spoke to him twice, and receiving no answer, touched him, when it was discovered he was dead.  What caused his death is not known but is supposed to be a second stroke of paralysis, the first one of which he had some years since.  Franklin Register

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 8, 1874

Marriage

In German [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 8th, by Rev. J.K. Desarest, Mr. Joseph Gilliland to Miss Eliza? E. [McKee] daughter of Joseph McKee, Esq., both of German.

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Miss Nellie [Fitch], daughter of Mason Fitch, aged 19 years 7 months.

In Nineveh, Broom Co. [NY], at the residence of her son James W. Oliver, Mrs. Catherine Oliver, aged 59 years, mother of Thos E. Oliver, of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].

In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], at the residence of J.C. Philley, Sept. 23d, Ann [Utter] widow of Samuel? Utter, late of Colesville [Broome Co. NY].  Her disease was consumption.  Slowly she wasted away and was ready to depart and be with Christ.  Only waiting for the call to bear her over the river of death, there to meet with loved ones on the other shore.

I have seen those most loving and lovely / Pass over the death river's tide, / And today by day fully do I see them, / Rejoicing on the opposite side.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, October 10, 1874

Verdict of the Coroner's Jury

The following is the Verdict of the Jury summoned by Coroner Hand to inquire as to the cause and circumstances of the death of Mr. Edward Childs and James Hickey who were killed and burned at the time of the collision on the D.L.&W. Railroad, near Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], last week:

"At an inquest indented and taken this 29th, 30th and 1st and 2d day of September and October, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and seventy four, for the People of the State of New York, in the village of Norwich in said County [Chenango Co. NY], before S.M. Hand, one of the Coroners of said County on view of the body of Edward Childs then and there lying dead upon the oath of Delos Fowlston, John W. Redington, Jedediah R. Wheeler, Jr., Chas. Cox, Ira Spaulding, Michael Conway, Henry L. Morse, James W. Thompson, Wm. G. Mandeville and Levi P. Webster, good and lawful men of said County, who being sworn and charged to enquire how and after what manner said Edward Childs came to his death, do say, upon oath aforesaid, that Edward Childs while in the discharge of his duties as Postmaster or Mail Agent with an express Train of Railroad Cars which was moving south on the Del., Lack. & Western R. Road, on the morning of Sept. 29th, between Norwich and Oxford and when at a place 6-1/2 miles south of Norwich, at a curve of the Rail Road in a deep cut, then and there came to his death by reason of a collision of said Express train of cars with a gravel train of cars which was standing on the track on said curve and within said deep cut in consequence of the inexcusable negligence of Nehemiah A. Smith, who had the charge of said gravel train as Conductor and Engineer to properly attend to the time of his watch, and in consequence of his culpable neglect to obey the order of Rule 22d of the Time Table and printed regulations for the D.L.&W. Railroad which read as follows:  "Trains required to stop between the stations on the Road from any cause must immediately send out signals in both directions to warn approaching trains and the conductor must do so at all times and places having no right to suppose that there are no trains approaching."

And the said Jurors do further say upon their oaths as aforesaid that the evidence in this inquest reveals the fact that said Nehemiah A. Smith has habitually neglected obedience to said Rule 22 since his employment on said Road, and that there has not been that care by the proper officers to require obedience to the rules that is designed to secure the safety of the passengers travelling on said D.L.&W. Railroad.

In witness whereof, as well the said Coroner as the Jurors aforesaid, have to this inquisition set their hands and seals on this 2d day of October 1874."

The coroner issued his warrant for the arrest of Smith, and he was held to bail in the sum of $4000, John Shattuck and Solomon Bundy becoming his bondsmen.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, October 10, 1874

Marriage

Guilford Centre [Chenango Co. NY], Oct. 7th.  Editor Republican:  Last Wednesday evening being the fifteenth anniversary of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Rufus N. Mills, about 80 of their relatives and friends surprised them with their presence and their presents.  Among the guests present we noticed Mrs. Rufus Utley, Mrs. Homer Smith, Drs. Clark, of Guilford, etc., etc.  Among the presents was a beautiful China tea set, from the bride's father, Rev. Erastus P. Smith. The company dispersed before the end of the memorable anniversary, wishing "many happy returns": of the day. The unanimous expression of those present was that they had a delightful time.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, October 1874

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 1, 1874

Marriages

At the residence of the bride's father in South Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 23d, by Rev. George Potter, Mr. Rector W. Willoughby, of Amsterdam, N.Y. [Montgomery Co.], to Miss Rosella H. [Stratton], youngest daughter of Albert Stratton, Esq.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 23d, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Levi Paddleford, of Fenton [Broome C. NY] to Miss Mira C. [Stanton], daughter of Mr. Cephas Stanton, of this town.

The Congregational Church in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], was packed full of people on Tuesday evening of last week, to witness the marriage of Hubert W. Frost, Esq., to Miss Cornelia E. Peck, daughter of Philo Peck of this town. The Church was brilliantly lighted, and the floral display was on a grand and magnificent scale, entirely eclipsing anything of the kind ever attempted in our village.  A large and beautifully arranged floral bower, about eight feet high, was standing in front of the altar, beneath which the happy pair stood when united.  This was a magnificent display of choice flowers, and it was so arranged as to give the best effect possible.  This bower contained the large amount of sight bushels of cut flowers and was admired by all present as being perfect in every detail.  Besides the beautiful bower, there were many plants and flowers in other portions of the Church, and the beautiful blending of all, gave the Chruch, in the vicinity of the altar, the appearance of an extensive flower garden.  Everything spoke well for those who devised and perfected these beautiful adornments.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, October 1, 1874

Marriage

BELLINGER - SMITH:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 20th, by Rev. Frank H. Newton, Mr. Nelson H. Bellinger of North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], and Miss Jennie A Smith of this town.  

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, October 3, 1874

Marriage

Last Tuesday evening, September 29th, the M.E. Church was packed with an expectant throng to witness the nuptial ceremony over George L. Winsor, Esq., a promising young lawyer of the firm of Sayre & Winsor, and Miss Getie Wetmore, the accomplished daughter of Mr. James K. Wetmore, all of this village [Bainbridge Chenango Co. NY].  The desk was adorned with choice and fragrant flowers, while in the north end of the Church were the words tastily arranged in plain letters, "May peace and prosperity attend them."  At fifteen minutes of seven the tones of the organ, skillfully presided over by Prof. S.N. Copley, pealed forth, and soon the bride, supported on the arm of Elliot Danforth, Esq., the groomsman and the groom in company with Miss Ida Prince, the bridesmaid, entered, and proceeded slowly down the aisle to the altar, where Rea. A.B. Richardson, pastor, assisted by Rev. Mr. Bixby, performed the beautiful and impressive ceremony of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The newly married couple then repaired to the depot to await the arrival of the 7:50 train, which was to bear them to Binghamton, thence to the Thousand Islands, where they will remain about a week.  At the depot was the scene of congratulations, and it seemed as though the entire village availed themselves of this opportunity to grasp the hand and lisp a God speed.

But we would not close this article neglecting to mention the happy union of friends at the home of the bride previous to the ceremony. The immediate relatives and a few chosen friends of the couple assembled, by invitation, to exchange courtesies and discuss the ample variety of contents of a table groaning beneath the weight of delicacies. The presents of the bride were numerous and costly and were a reminder of the high estimation in which she was held by her friends.  As they commence traveling life's eventful journey together, may their pathway be as bright and joyous as the company which assembled on their wedding day to bid the star of fortune illumine their way.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, October 1874

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, October 1, 1874

Marriages

BENEDICT - ALDRICH:  At the M.E. Parsonage in Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 24th, by Rev. J.W. Mevis, Mr. Elmer L. Benedict to Miss Mattie E. Aldrich, all of Plymouth.

BROWN - HERRINGTON:  At the residence of the bride's father in McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 15th, by Rev. W. Johnson, Mr Charles Brown, of Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Clara Herrington.

DYKES - ACKERMAN:  At the residence of the bride's parents in Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY], Sept. 23d, by Rev. H. Pattengill, Mr. James L. Dykes of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Emma Ackerman.

McGUIRE - McDONALD:  By the same on the same day, at the residence of Linn B. Kilbourn, Esq., Mr. John McGuire of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Fannie Mcdonald.

JEWELL - WILDER:  In DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY] Sept. 17th, by Eld. P. Fisher, Rev. George C. Jewell, of Parina Centre, N.Y. to Susan E. Wilder, of DeRuyter.

Deaths

THOMPSON:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], Sept 28th, Mr. Hiram C. Thompson, aged 41 years.

McMAHAN:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 23d? at nearly the same hour, Frank M. [McMahan] aged 8 years and Fanny D. [McMahan] aged 2 years and 7 months; Sept. 25th, Elizabeth Ann [McMahan] aged 5 years and 9 months; children of John and Bridget McMahan.

WHITE:  I Preston [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 23d, an infant child of C.H. White, aged 9 months.

ATWATER:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 22d, Polly [Atwater] wife of Orin Atwater, aged 44 years.

SALEY:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], Sept. 23d, Arthur Leon [Saley] only child of M.L. and Emma J. Saley, aged 10 months and 23 days.

BURNSIDE:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], Sept. 20th, Blanche [Burnside] youngest child of Rev. G.R. Burnside, aged 3 years and 6 months.

JACOBS:  In Lansing, Mower County Minnesota, September 10th, 1874, after a long and painful illness, Polly Ann [Jacobs] wife of Hiram D. Jacobs, aged 53 years.

The subject of this sketch will be remembered by many people of this county, especially in New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] where she had resided for many years.  She was a native of Canada West, where she spent the early part of her life, and she always maintained a feeling of pride for the land of her birth. The deceased was a woman of more than ordinary ability having received in early life advantages which fitted her for the position she always so faithfully filled. A devoted and zealous member of Christ's flock, always ready to labor for the cause of her Master and for the good of those with whom she was associated.  How sweet the remembrances of many words and deeds of kindness best wed upon the writer of these few lines.  They will always be cherished in his memory as those of love such as none but a Christian woman can bestow.  Her bereaved husband has the sympathy of many friends in this sad hour of affliction.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, October 1, 1874

Marriage

Elopement:  Domestic circles on New State Street were agitated on Tuesday of last week, to learn that the wife of Ralph Widger had "lit out" with about $75 of her husband's hard earnings and had gone to join her fortunes with a young man named Henry Myers, who departed for the West on Monday.  Young Myers had been hanging around Widger's for some time, and we believe, had been driven away from there by Mr. Widger, who suspected that everything was not right. the injured husband deeply feels the situation in which he is placed by his unfaithful wife.  Ox. Times

Death

William Root, of Delhi [Delaware Co. NY], the only remaining son of Gen Erastus Root, died suddenly in that village, on the 21st, from a stroke of paralysis.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, September 30, 1874

Deaths

David J. Mitchell a leading lawyer and honored citizen of Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY], died at Clifton Springs [Ontario Co. NY] on the 22d inst.  Mr. Mitchell will be remembered by many of our readers as the gentleman who delivered the 4th of July oration in this village at the celebration in 1873.  He was formerly a resident of Hamilton, Madison County [NY].

STONE:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], of consumption, Aug. 12th, Jessie Fremont [Stone] daughter of Joshua B. Stone (deceased) and Ann Stone (now Mrs. Anderson) aged 17 years.

We have often thought that the pure and lovely things of earth were the first to pass away. The pearly dewdrop glistens in the morning sunshine but an hour. The bow that circles the heavens, after a summer shower, vanishes while we are admiring its wondrous beauty. The fairest flowers bloom but a day.  So, Jessie's brief life passed before us in spotless loveliness, and we saw her depart as we would watch the setting of a bright star, or the going out of a clear light, leaving us to mourn in sadness on her transient stay.  She was educated, refined, noble hearted, and a meek follower of Jesus, possessing all the Christian graces, so her life was indeed beautiful.  She gave her heart to God in early childhood and became a member of the Free Baptist Church in this place, at the age of nine years. Her early religious impressions she attributed wholly to the holy influence of her consecrated Christian mother, who she said brought her up so that she did not know as there was any other way only the right way.  May all the dear mothers who read these lines, not only ponder well, but imitate the example here set, so that in after years their children may rise up and call them blessed.  Or if called to part with them early, they may feel as Jessie's mother is now feeling, that it is a sacred boon to know their darling once are angels, safely housed in God's eternal mansion in Heaven.  Jessie's sick room was a sweet spot, friends vied with each other for the choicest flowers to please the eye, and the earliest fruits to tempt the taste, and all that love could invent, or money purchase, was obtained to render her last hours pleasant.  As her strength fled, the love of Jesus, she said, grew more and more precious. The day before she died, she told her pastor it was all she had left.  Her faith was strong and beautiful, spanning so entirely the dark valley of the shadow of death, that she saw only Jesus and her heavenly home in the bright beyond.  It may be truly said of her that death was swallowed up in victory. She had been useful and pure in life, so she was useful and lovely in death.  Loving once brought pale sweet flowers, fit emblems of the dear departed, and willing hands placed them tenderly around the pale angel sleeper.  We said in our hearts, beautiful even in death. The family circle lingered long around the casket that contained their dear one, as though they would forever fix in their hearts the image of her who to them was a very dear.  But they are all Christians and dutiful to their trust will greet her again in glory for we shall know each other there.  May the dear youth -?- she lived, and may her mantle fall on some one of them, is our prayer.  Mrs. C.L.V.

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Shocking Railroad Accident!

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, October 1, 1874

Another of those terrible railroad accidents which so frequently shock whole communities and cast a gloom over society, occurred on Tuesday forenoon on the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad, some two miles north of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].  The Utica and Binghamton Express, with two loaded coaches, a smoking and freight, and a postal and express car, left this station for the south nearly on time, the merry passengers, many of them going aboard for the Oxford Fair, little dreaming of the terrible catastrophe before them  Upon reaching what is known as Rhodes' Cut, on the premises of Isaac Sherwood, in the town of Oxford, the Express ran into a gravel or wildcat train the engine of which was facing the north, causing the death of two persons and the wounding and burning of several others. The gravel train was standing in the cut, which is entered by a sharp curve, the workmen all unconscious of harm till the thundering locomotive hove into view, nearly upon them.  The engines came together with a fearful crash and locked themselves with a death grasp, while the passengers were thrown and jostled about in the utmost confusion.  Nehemiah Smith, of Brisbin, familiarly known as "Cap Smith," was in charge of the gravel train, both as engineer and conductor. Conductor C.M. Ferrell was in charge of the Express going south.

The gravel train had been partially loaded in a cut some rods further north and was backed down to complete the loading.  The cause of the accident came from the stoppage of the timepiece of Captain Smith, his watch indicating 10 o'clock and two minutes, when the true time was 11:30 as shown by Conductor Ferrel's watch immediately after the collision.  Thus deceived, the Captain and his men leisurely continued their work, supposing they had ample time to complete their load and back down to Oxford before the express came along.  The colliding engines were completely wrecked, and the postal and express freight, the baggage and smoking cars were set on fire.

The mail agent, Mr. Edward Childs, of Utica [Oneida Co. NY] formerly of this village, was crushed in the crash, and as no earthly power could rescue the body, it was burned to a crisp in the debris.  A boy named Charles Hickey whose parents reside in this village [Norwich, Chenanog Co. NY], who got into the postal car at this station, shared the fate of Mr. Childs, by being burned to ashes.

Charles Lewis, the Engineer with difficulty made his escape with a collar bone broken.  He was taken to the St. James hotel, at Oxford, and medical and all other needed assistance promptly rendered. The fireman barely had time to save himself by jumping from the train.

Orange Emmons, of this village, who has been somewhat extensively engaged in railroading, took passage upon the engine for Oxford, and was very badly burned about the hips and loins, and lower extremities, by being crowded against the door of the furnace.  He received, it is feared, internal injuries, and his condition is considered precarious indeed.  It was some time before he could be extricated and while in his perilous condition, he exhibited much courage and fortitude of mind.  He was taken to the residence of Mr. Rhodes, and every possible assistance rendered.

Captain Palmer, also of this village, who was in the drawing room car, was bruised in the face, but not severely, and an aged lady, Mrs. Wm. Faulkner, from Fish Creek, in the same car, was quite severely injured.  Mrs. Faulkner, in company with her daughter, was brought to the Chenango House, and medical assistance called. She will doubtless recover.  Several other persons were injured, some quite seriously, but none dangerously.  John McGowen, of this village was considerably bruised about the face and shoulders, and a young man named Frank Eggleston also of this town, received a severe cut in the forehead.  A  man named Rice, of Hamilton, was injured in the knee, but not seriously.

A fire engine at length came from Oxford, and extinguished the flames, not however till nearly all the combustible material had been well-nigh consumed. The mail bags were all burned, and most of the express freight, comprising a quantity of butter, destroyed.  The expressman's safe was pulled from the burning car, but the money and valuables therein contained were more or less scorched and damaged.

Upon reaching the scene, there was presented a sight which beggars description. The banks were lined with hundreds of people from Norwich, Oxford and vicinity, all anxious to render every assistance, but they were powerless to save, for the work of destruction and death had been accomplished.

The Oxford physicians were promptly at the scene, and one or two from this village, and all were active in rendering every possible medical and surgical aid.

Mr. Childs was well and favorably known in this County, for many years his home, and in this portion of the State where he had a host of friends.  He was at one time Sheriff of this County and served the people faithfully.  His shocking death creates a profound sensation in this community, and all unite in extending their deep sympathy to the sorely bereaved widow and the family of his only son, who resides in Norwich.  The Hickey family have the sympathy of the community, as have all in any way injured by the sad calamity.  An inquest is being held when all the fact of the case will be elicited, and the blame, if any, we trust placed where it properly belongs.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, September 1874 (concluded)

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, September 24, 1874

Marriages

The Congregational Church, on Tuesday evening, Sept. 22d, by Rev. George Porter, Hubert W. Frost, Esq., to Miss Cornelia E. [Peck] eldest daughter of Mr. Philo Peck, all of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].

At Whitney's Point [Broome Co. NY], Sept. 15th, by Rev. W. Gates, Mr. Charles M. Mack to Miss Caroline E. Ticknor, all of Triangle [Broome Co. NY].

Deaths

In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 16th, Mr. Cyrus Smith aged 53 years and 6 months.

At the residence of his son-in-law, Sherman Page in Triangle [Broome Co. NY], Sept. 17th, Mr. Z.D. Butts, aged 76 years.

In Knoxville, Pa., Sept. 19th, James Sherman [Sigston], infant son of Rev. W.H. Sigston, aged 8 months and 28 days.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, September 26, 1874

Death

BENTON:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on Saturday, Sept. 19th, 1874, of brain fever, John Winship [Benton], youngest son of J. Nevine and Christine Benton, aged 2 years 7 months and 18 days.  "A father's pride and mother's joy" has thus suddenly been transplanted to that happy land where sorrow is unknown.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, September 26, 1874

Marriages

PATTENGILL - CANDEE:  At Holland Patent, on the 16th ult. by Rev. J.B. Pattengill, Wm. H. Pattengill to Miss Nellie Candee.

SNYDER - HOLCOMB:  At the parsonage, Coventryville, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], on the 22d inst. by Rev. George D. Horton, Mr. William A. Snyder, of Seneca Co. Ohio to Miss Maria L. Holcomb, of Coventry.

NOLTON - PATTENGILL:  At Holland Patent [Oneida Co. NY], on the 16th inst. by Rev. J.S. Pattengill, Mr. Charles F. Nolton to Miss Mary Pattengill, daughter of the officiating clergyman.

Deaths

LAWTON:  In Sidney [Delaware Co. NY], on the 2d inst. Mrs. Nellie Bailey [Lawton], wife of George Lawton, aged 28 years.

KELLOGG:  In Sidney [Delaware Co. NY], on the 13th inst., Orville Kellogg, aged 24 years.

In the death of our esteemed fellow townsman, Mr. William L. Partridge, Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] loses a valuable citizen.  He was ever to be found on the side of virtue, temperance and morality, and the village can illy afford to lose such a man.  His untimely demise is universally deplored.  His funeral took place on Sunday morning last from his late residence, and notwithstanding the inclement weather, was largely attended by our citizens generally and the civic societies of the village.  The body was interred in the cemetery at Bennettsville with Masonic honors.  Requiescat in pace.

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Died, in Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] on the afternoon of September 16th, 1874, Cyrus Smith, aged 53 years.  

The deceased was the eighth child, and sixth son, of the late Clark Smith, one of the early settlers of Coventry.  Cyrus was born on the farm where his father long lived, and he spent his whole life upon the old homestead, or within a few rods of it.  Thus, he was in the strictest sense a native and citizen of that town.

Words seem inadequate to describe such a man as he was.  He could be appreciated by those who knew him, but we cannot delineate his character.  As a man he was of the noblest and purest type, strictly upright and conscientious in all his dealings.  As a friend and neighbor, he was generous and faithful, careful not to offend, and ever ready to forgive, a peacemaker and conciliator among his associates.  As a companion he was genial and happy, always having a kind, cheery word for those he met.  As a brother, son, husband and father, he was most tender and affectionate.  As a Christian he was sincere and earnest, his piety showing itself in everyday life.  He had from youth been a member of the second Congregational Church of Coventry, and no one who knew him ever doubted the purity and sincerity of his piety.  But he was so retiring and unassuming in his manner that he never made a show of his religion nor intruded his views on any subject upon others.  On account of this peculiarity in him the community in which he lived was doubtless not conscious of his full worth and influence.  He was like some of those great blessings which we often enjoy but do not fully realize their value until they have gone from us.  Such was he.

His death has made a great void in the circle where he moved, and his loss will be long and sorely felt.  the day of his burial was a sad one for the community.  Although the day was stormy, yet  a large concourse of people assembled to testify of their loss.  His pastor spoke tender, comforting words, yet also words of sorrow and sadness, which showed that deep in his heart he felt that he had lost a strong friend and supporter.

Devout men carried him to his burial place in the beautiful cemetery on the hilltop.

Ten years before he was one of six sons who lowered the body of their honored father into his tomb, in this same beautiful spot.  Now the four remaining brothers lowered his remains to their last resting place.  It was a beautiful and touching scene, to witness those brothers, whose heads are well sprinkled with silver, preform this last office of affection to the companion of their childhood.  But they can do no more for him; he has gone.  And as the clods have covered his coffin many feel that they will miss him.  All feel that a good man has gone to his grave, and to his reward.  The Church of which he was so long a member will miss him; the neighborhood in which he lived will miss him; the large circle of relatives in which he was a ray of sunshine, will miss the cheery voice; his aged mother has received yet another sorrow to her heart, and misses another from her treasures upon earth. The house will feel that its great light has gone out.

But while he is missed so much here, the throng of the redeemed has gained one more of its number.  Another soul is at rest.  That mother can feel that another has been called to meet her on the evergreen shore, and the widow and the fatherless may trust the God who "doeth all things well."

"Bury the dead and weep / In stillness o'er the loss; / Bury the dead; in Christ they sleep, / Who bore on earth his cross."

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

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, September 24, 1874

Marriages

McCALL - ALEXANDER:  In Walton [Delaware Co. NY], Sept. 8th?, By Rev. S.J. White, D.D. Mr. Roswell J. McCall of Preston [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Alice Alexander, of Walton.

VAN COTT - TYLER:  In Prattsville [Greene Co. NY] Sept. 9th, by Rev. S. Merchant, Mr. Homer P. Van Cott, of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Anna R. Tyler, of the former place.

KENNEDY - WEBB:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 5th, by Rev. H. Pattongill, Mr. Earl M. Kennedy, of Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY] to  Miss Ellen Webb, of New Berlin.

HENDERSON -CRITTENDEN:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY], Sept. 10th, by Rev E.C. Weber, Mr. Mason H. Henderson to Miss Mary Ann Crittenden, all of Cincinnatus.

RORAPAUGH - LORD:  At Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY], Sept. 17th, by Rev. J.B. Morse, Mr. Davidson Rorapaugh of Liberty [Sullivan Co. NY] to Miss Hattie Lord of Parksville [Sullivan Co. NY].

BURNSIDE - GUNN:  At the residence of the bride's parents, in Colliersville, Otsego Co. [NY], Sept. 17th, by Rev. J. Flint, Mr. Charles Burside to Miss Libbie Gunn, both of Colliersville.

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DICKINSON - EDLER:  In South Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 16th, by Rev. R.V. Talbot, Mr. Charles Dickinson to Miss Lizzie Edler, both of this place [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

Miss Lizzie Edler completely surprised nearly every one of the guests which she invited to her croquet party, which was to have taken place last Wednesday, the 16th, had not the rain interfered with her arrangements.  As it is, we somewhat blame Lizzie for not having her party sooner, as we might have been spared from the drouth and the County Fair could not have shared the glory of causing the rain.  Miss Edler had invited some seventy of her relatives and most intimate friends to spend the afternoon with her, promising to furnish several croquet sets with which to entertain them.  But Miss Lizzie, although unsuspected by her guests had plans laying deeper down and reaching farther out than mere croquet parties.

The very wet rain of Wednesday seriously interfered with her guests, only about thirty being present.  It entirely smashed up her game of croquet but did not in the least interfere with her sumptuous dinner, comprising every delicacy of the season (chicken, nuts and candies not excluded) nicely arranged and bountifully served.  No! nor did the rain, wet as it was, interfere with the rung with which Charles did Lizzie wed, and that is the way in which Charlie Dickinson and Lizzie Edler fool people and strange to say, would you believe it the minister said, " I don't care, it is a good job for me.  Let it rain, who cares."  So, you see the rain can beat Lizzie's croquet, but Charlie's ring can beat the rain.    Guest. [Oxford Times, Sept. 23, 1874]

Deaths

SMITH:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 16th, Mr. Beebe Smith, aged 83 years.  Mr. Smith was one of the first settlers of the town and has resided continuously upon the farm where he died for nearly seventy years.

STEERE:  In East McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 20th, Katy [Steere] wife of Rev. Cyrus Steere, aged 77 years.

GOODRICH:  At the County House in Preston [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 7th, Mr. Isaac Goodrich, aged 66 years.

BAXTER:  At the County House, in Preston [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 13th, Mrs. Clarissa Ann Baxter, aged 75 years.

CRITTENDEN:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY], Sept. 10th, Miss Mary Annie Crittenden, aged 78 years, 9 months and 10 days.

Charles L. Strong an old and respected citizen of Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] was fatally injured by a bull which he was leading home from the Fair Grounds on the 10th inst. The bull became unmanageable and tossed Mr. Strong several times before he could be rescued.  The unfortunate man was picked up in an insensible condition, and taken to the residence of Dr. Sweet, where he lingered until the evening of the 15th, when he died.

J.N. Drew of Laurens [Otsego Co. NY], was accidentally drowned in a creek a few days since.  It was first thought to have been a case of suicide, but further examination into the circumstances has confirmed to his friends and neighbors that his death was a result of accident.

Willie Becker of Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY], aged twelve and one-half years, was burned to death by an explosion of naphtha.

Patrick McHugo of Delancey's Corners, in the town of Brookfield [Madison Co. NY], fell from a wagon on the evening of September 14th and was killed.

Rev. D.D. Gregory a Presbyterian clergyman, aged 72 years died at his residence in Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], on the 16th inst.

Mrs. Chas. Morey of the town of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], died very suddenly on the morning of the 12th, aged 50 years.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, September 24, 1874

Marriages

HUBBELL - BELDIN:  In Harpersville [Broome Co. NY], September 15th, by Rev. I.P. Tower, Mr. A. Ransom Hubbell to Miss Mary E. Beldin, of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

COLLIER - WILKES:  By Rev. G.W. Foster, at his residence in Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], September 17th, Mr. Chas. Collier and Miss Sarah Wilkes, both of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY].

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Golden Wedding

On the Nineteenth day of September 1824, Adna [Warner] and Lucia Carter, were married at Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY].  On Saturday last (Sept. 19, 1874) the home of our aged friend was made joyful and happy by the presence of about seventy relatives and friends of that worthy man and his estimable companion, who assembled to do honor to them on the occasion of the fiftieth anniversary of their marriage.  The occasion was one of much interest, congratulations were bestowed without stint and a goodly number of valuable presents were bestowed upon the aged couple. There were in attendance the following children:  Lucius A. now residing in Pennsylvania, Fred A. of Iowa, now and for the past six years Deputy Secretary of State, Lucean D. of Naugatuck, Conn., embracing all the sons but one, Doric G., who resides in Montana. Both of the daughters were present as follows:  Mrs. Julia Bowen, wife of M. D. Bowen now of Litchfield, Minn., Mrs. Emily Halbert, wife of Dr. H. Halbert of Pitcher.  Mrs. Warner's twin brother Lucius Carter, of Painsville, Ohio, was also present.

Mr. and Mrs. Warner are each 78 years of age, there being but two weeks difference in their ages, the former was born in Naugatuck, Conn., and the latter in Buckland, near Springfield, Mass.  Their lives have been more than usually free from unpleasant incident, and we believe we but re-echo the general sentiments of the community in which we live, when we say they have been full of usefulness, and that they bear the respect and confidence of their many friends and acquaintances.  The children too, in this respect, follow in the footsteps of their parents, and devote themselves to deeds of usefulness and honor and are cherished as good citizens in the localities in which they respectively reside.

We are glad to record the pleasant gathering and trust the annual recurrence of the Nineteenth of September may be again and again celebrated, even until the Diamond date shall come around, and especially that the last days of the aged pair may be their best, full of joy even as their long-spent lives have been full of usefulness.

Deaths

GOODSIL:  In Presto Poor House [Chenango Co. NY], September 7th, Mr Isaac Goodsil, aged 69? years.

LEMLEY:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], August 25th, Mrs. Marinda R. Lemley, aged 41 years.  

Gone, and the world to go on as before, / Gone with a smile from the old homestead door, / Dear faithful heart to come back nevermore; / On and nevermore.

Sleep, sister sleep, with your hands on your breast; / Poor weary hands they needed this rest. / Well have we loved you but God loved you best, / Dear heart He's given you rest.

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

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, September 17, 1874

Marriages

YOUNG - HANN:  In Andover, N.Y. [Allegany Co.], August 20th?, by Rev. O.LO. Gibson, Mr. Julian S. Young of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Lottie E. Hann, of the former place.

HOAG - SARGENT:  At the residence of the bride's parents in South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 10th, by Rev. A. Lindsay, Mr. Ira hoag of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Ada Sargent of South New Berlin.

Deaths

PADGETT:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 8th, Melissa E. Padgett, aged 14 years.

SYMONDS:  In South Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 11th, Julia A. [Symonds] daughter of George and Sarah A. Symonds, aged 15 years.

PALMER:  In Columbus [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 10th, Annis [Palmer] widow of the late Hon. Grant B. Palmer, and mother of Mrs. Jerry Medbury, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], aged 72 years.

HYER:  In Rockdale [Chenango Co. NY], August 2d, Mr. William G. Hyer in the 80th year of his age.  Dear father, we miss thee at home, but our loss, we trust, is thy unlimited gain.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, September 17, 1874

Marriages

DWIGHT - BURNAP:  In German [Chenango Co. NY], September 8th, by Rev. J.W. Barr, Mr. John G. Dwight of German and Miss Frances Burnap, of the same place.

PAUL - BACKUS:  In Providence, R.I. September 8th, by the Rev. H.T. Arnold, Mr. Andrew J. Paul of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Jennie Backus of Providence, R.I.

Death

FULLER:  In Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY] September 2d, Sylvia Fuller, wife of Dea. Isaac Fuller, aged 57 years.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, September 16, 1874

Marriage

SHERWOOD - KATHAN:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], on the 7th, at the residence of Henry Balcom by Rev. Dr. Ayrault, Edwin C. Sherwood of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] to Cora E. Kathan of this village.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, September 17, 1874

Marriages

At the Baptist Parsonage in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 8th, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Eugene Cline, of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Esther M. Gilliland, of German [Chenango Co NY].

At Sault Ste Mary, Mich. Aug. 10th, by Rev. Mr. Easterday, Mr. W.C. Cohoon, formerly of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Carrie Cole, of Detroit, Mich.

At Steamboat Rock, Iowa, at the residence of her uncle, H.P. Halenbeck, Sept. 1st, Mr. D.W. Turner to Miss Frank Race, formerly of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].

Paper Wedding:  some time ago, it was arranged by Seeley Merriam and wife of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], to celebrate the 3d anniversary of their marriage in an appropriate way, and, in looking over the law and customs, they found that the way appropriate must be a paper wedding. At first, they were filled with sorrow, because it could not be a silver or a golden wedding, for then what presents might come in.  But soon they began to consider that greenbacks, bonds and mortgages, bank notes, &c., &c, could be given, at a paper wedding.  So, the invitations were sent out, to those who would be most likely to respond favorably in addition to the large circle of relatives.  The time appointed was Friday, Sept. 4th, at 6 P.M., and about that time, loads of invited ones, from every point of compass, were pointing toward the hospitable mansion of the expectant family and soon, their house, was literally filled with happy guests, and their ample barns and yards with horses and carriages.  A competent corps of ostlers and waiters, were in attendance, at every point, where assistance was required and "all went merry as a marriage bell."

The smiling groom and his accomplished wife were fully equal to the occasion, meeting each of the guests with a true and hearty old time welcome, while a suggestive table, in Mrs. Merrian's best style, stood, literally loaded, in the dining room, with the choicest dainties.

At about ten o'clock, Mr. E. Haynes, of Oxford, passed through the rooms, with a well laden cake basket, in one hand and ringing a bell, with the other, as a sort of hint, that the eating hour was close at hand.  The large company was then called to order, and was addressed in a few well-chosen words, by the one who married them three years before, and prayer was offered. Then came the eating, and oh! what satisfaction reigned throughout the hungry multitude.

The whole evening was enlivened by appropriate music, excellent singing, good wishes, well expressed, and the fine display of gifts, arranged in the spacious hall: chromos, books, photograph albums, toilet boxes, engravings, photographs, paintings, paper pails, &c., in almost endless variety, and better than all, the good wishes that accompanied each gift.  Altogether, it was an enjoyable affair, and a perfect success.  May they live to celebrate their silver and golden weddings, was the wish, of all present and the writer would add to this, may all the years of their married life be as full of happiness as have been the three, since Sept. 4th, 1871.  J.H. Sage.

Deaths

At the residence of Henry Elliott, in this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], July 20th, Mrs. Susannah [Elliott] widow of the late Charles R. Elliott, aged 82 years.

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In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 12th, Mr. John Stoughton, aged 62 years.

Suddenly was this esteemed Christian friend and brother summoned away from the associations of life.  On the first Sunday of this month, he was in his place in the Sanctuary as was his wont and participating in the Communion of the body and blood of Christ, and the next Lord's day his spirit had gone to join another, higher, holier Communion of the "saints in light."  It is an inexpressible comfort to know, that as God's Providence orders the departure of those who have served him faithfully here, they are so well prepared for the change, sudden though it be, which takes them out of life.  This departed Christian brother was remarkable for his consistency and faithfulness as a disciple of the Saviour, always in attendance on the means of grace, and most correct in habit and life.  We are not aware that he left an enemy behind him in the world.  He was a man of few words, careful of speech, gentle and modest in bearing, quiet and retiring, yet with a well-informed mind, devoted to reading and with a discriminating judgment in what he read.  A person must have known him well as the writer of this sketch did to know the decided literary taste which marked his mental habits and the case with which, when the subject was well opened, he could follow out a line of interesting and profitable discourse.  A man of strict integrity and conscientiousness in all his ways and dealings we shall miss the example of true Christian character exhibited in his life.  It seems like a dream that he has passed away, and it was a painful sadness that the power of speech was wholly lost in the paralysis with which he was smitten. The body began to die at once under the sudden summons but the spirit lives and grows bright and happy forever in the Paradise of God. There may we meet him again beneath the Redeemer's face.

Death of John Stoughton:  On Wednesday of last week, Mr. John Stoughton of this village, while at work in Morrell's shop, was suddenly seized with a paralytic stroke.  He was removed to his residence by friends and gradually sank until Saturday night, when his gentle spirit passed out and over the river.

Mr. Stoughton was an old resident of this place, and one of our most respected and honored citizens.  He was a man of quiet and reserved habits of strict integrity and his character stood out in his daily life a perfect monument of purity and goodness.  He was a man of extensive reading and well conversant with the literature of the day.

We shall miss his quiet figure on our streets and in our office which he frequently visited, but there is a consolation in the thought that this good man is now enjoying the reward of the honest Christian soldier, and that his pure spirit is now winging its flight amid the balmy air of the celestial paradise above, and his feet can rest when weary, upon the golden street of the New Jerusalem.

To the young in our midst, we would hold up the character of John Stoughton as worthy of emulation, for he was one of God's noblest works, an honest, Christian man.

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Death of John M. Mason:  It is a sad duty that we are obliged to record the death of John M. mason, of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], who expired Sept. 6, in the 33d year of his age, after a protracted and painful sickness.  He came to this place some four years ago a perfect stranger, and very few men in so brief a time made so many friends. All who knew him remember well his kind and amiable disposition, his modest and unassuming deportment, and his friendly manly bearing won the respect of all.  Mr. Mason in the early stages of the rebellion volunteered as a private in the army, and after three years of honorable service returned dangerously wounded, for which he has ever since received a pension.  He leaves a wife and one child. A kind and loving husband and father, a social and friendly neighbor has gone, and while we mingle our tears and sympathy with the bereaved family and friends, we can but feel that a good man has passed away.  "A good man is better than riches" is as true now as when uttered by the lips of inspiration.  "May he rest in peace."

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, September 19, 1874

Deaths

SABIN:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 7th, 1874, S.D. Sabin, aged 68 years and 3 months.

CONGER:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 11th, Mr. Charles P. Conger, aged 65 years.

In Memorium:  This week is imposed upon us the sorrowful duty of recording the death of one of our highly esteemed residents.  Mrs. Martha C. Swan, wife of Mr. Thomas Swan, died at her residence, about two miles east of Sherburne village on Monday, Sept. 14th.  The funeral took place at the house on Tuesday afternoon, when a large concourse of friends assembled to pay their last tribute of respect to the virtues of the deceased. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. J.L. Burrows.  Mrs. Swan was born in this town in the year 1832, where she has resided during the greater part of her life and was married in 1855.  She was baptized in the P.E. Church, April 12th, 1872, and confirmed in May of the same year. She has been an invalid for several years but was only confined to her room a few weeks before her death.  During all her sickness she exercised great patience, bearing her affliction with submissiveness and without complaint.  Her trust never failed her in Him who "Can make a dying bed, feel soft as downy pillows are."  The bereaved family have the warmest sympathy and regards of the entire community.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, September 19, 1874

Marriage

On Tuesday evening, Sept. 8th, Miss Rosalie Finch, of Rockwell's Mills [Chenango Co. NY], a deaf mute, was united in marriage to Mr. O.W. Evans, also a mute, which certainly forms a matrimonial tie extraordinary.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. S.W. Weiss, of Mt. Upton.  A daughter of the bridegroom by a former marriage acted as interpreter. The young lady, whose parents were deaf mutes, has all her senses perfect and converses readily in the deaf mute language. The bride received several handsome presents from Mr. C.W. Rockwell and other friends. The best wishes of the community attend the happy pair.

Death

Charles Skinner, son of Amasa Skinner of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], was accidentally killed at Bangor, Me., on the 1st inst.  He was a conductor on one of the many railroads leading out of that city, and much respected.  He was 26 years of age.