Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, January 1875

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, January 7. 1875

Marriages

SHAVER - ESTES:  At the residence of J.B. Sherwood, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 31st, by Rev. W.J. Judd, Mr. Charles R. Shaver of Verona [Oneida Co. NY], to Miss Ella A. Estes of Norwich.

BURLISON - SQUIRES:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 31st, by Rev. W.H. Waldron, Mr. Caleb R. Burlison of Norwich, to Miss Sarah L. Squires of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

ASHCRAFT - BROWN:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 5th, by Rev. W.H. Waldron, Mr. George H. Ashcraft of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Hattie E. Brown, of German [Chenango Co. NY].

BELLINGER - LANCTON:  In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 31st, by Rev. J.W. Barr, Mr. Charles H. Bellinger to Miss Caroline Lancton, all of Otselic.

REYNOLDS - CLEVELAND:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 24th, at the M.E. Church, by Rev. A.F. Brown, Mr. Devillo Reynolds of North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Artlissa M. Cleveland, of Smyrna.

CRAFEY - BROOKINS:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 23d, at the M.E. Parsonage, by Rev. H. Fox, Mr. Wilson S. Chafey of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Almedia L. Brookins, of North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

AVERY - TABER:  In Lenox [Madison Co. NY], Dec. 31st, by Rev. C.H. Bonney, Mr. George Avery, of Columbus [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Jennie Taber of Lenox.

RISLEY - PERKINS:  At Lower Beaver Meadow [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 29th, by Rev. H.C. Wilber, Mr. Orville Risley of New Hartford [Oneida Co. NY], to Miss Adah L. Perkins of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY].

SARLE - LOGAN: In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 24th, by Rev. Mr. Sage, Mr. T. Herbert Sarle of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Libbie Logan of Rochester [Monroe Co. NY].

WILLIAMS - ABBOTT:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 24th, by Rev. H. Fox, Mr. James A. Williams to Miss Mary A. Abbott, all of Sherburne.

ALDRIDGE- DAVISON:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 31st, by Rev. Mr. Loveridge, Mr. Moses Aldridge of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Mary Davison of Sherburne.

BUTLER - YOUNG:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 24th, by Rev. J.C. Shelland, Mr. Asa M. Butler to Miss Ella M. Young.

REED - YOUNG:  At the same time and place, by the same, Mr. Edwin Reed to Miss Emma G. Young.

Deaths

CLARK:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 5th, Bathsheba Clark, aged 77 years.

KNOWLES:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 29th, Eliza [Knowles], wife of Robert M. Knowles, aged 28 years and 6 months.

SPAULDING:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 29th, Mrs. Clarissa Spaulding aged 70 years and 6 months.

TAYLOR:  At the County House in Preston [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 1st, Mrs. Almira Taylor aged 52 years, formerly of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY]

BUMPUS:  On Crumb Hill [Cattaraugus Co. NY], Dec. 20th, Miss Carrie L. Bumpas, aged 22 years.

CARR:  At the residence of her daughter, Mrs. Bacheller in King Settlement [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 26th, Mrs. Esther Carr, aged 67 years.  Her end was peace.  She was a devoted wife and mother, a kind neighbor, and affectionate friend - in truth, a quiet, excellent Christian, and for forty-six years an esteemed member of the Congregational Chruch. The funeral took place on the 29th, and her remains were deposited in the Norwich Cemetery, surrounded till the last by her bereaved husband and family.

BENNETT:  At Fort Abercrombie, Dakota Territory Dec. 23d, Amarintha [Bennett] daughter of Capt. Clarence and Biotha Bennett, aged 3 months.  The body was sent by express and now rests peacefully in the family grounds of the Norwich Cemetery [Chenango Co. NY].

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BABCOCK:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 31st, Mrs. Catherine E. Babcock, wife of John E. Babcock, Esq., aged 52 years.

The announcement of the death of this estimable lady, who from girlhood has been a resident of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], was received with profound sorrow by a large circle of friends.  Her loss will be deeply felt, not only by the home circle, from which she has been so suddenly removed, but by the church of which she was a consistent and beloved member and by the community in which she has so many years resided.  her funeral was largely attended at her late residence on Sunday afternoon last, Rev. Mr. Loveridge officiating. We are indebted to that gentleman for the following merited tribute to her worth.

"We offer a passing tribute to one whose heart and life were an honor to womankind.  The memory of Mrs. Catherine E. Babcock will be long cherished by many fond hearts.  She filled her place in society nobly.  She was a large pattern of womanhood.  She had by nature a gift of true ladyhood, and by grace, that "ornament of a meek and quiet spirit which is in the sight of God of great price."  She had a modest and retiring nature, as true worth ever has, and that endowment which is the fairest jewel in the setting of Human virtues - unselfishness.  She often in beautiful devotion forgot herself.  She seldom forgot others.  She thought of herself last of all.  In her last sickness, under great bodily pain and weakness, she uttered no murmur.  Her great anxiety was lest those who ministered to her should suffer for her sake.  Through all the vicissitudes and sorrows incident to human life, she kept the same cheerfulness and sweetness of mind.  A root of bitterness often grows from life's trials, but none found place in her heart. She retained the same loving truthfulness, the same gladness of heart, in the happiness of others.  Her heart never grew old, save in life's true ripeness. the brave spirit, brave in its tenderness, over the loving, devoted wife, ever the tender and thoughtful mother.  "Faithful in all her house," she was a worthy disciple at the Master, faithful to His commands, active and zealous, working in a quiet, unobtrusive way, that has more in it of true love and duty than of ostentation - that way that pleases Christ so well, but too uncommon.  "There remaineth a rest for the people of God."  We pause here, lest we violate that meekness of spirit she loved so well, or by many words mar her retiringness of soul."

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Suddenly, in Olena, Ill. Dec. 30th, Mr. George R. Day of Norwich, aged 43 years.

At the hour of our going to press on Wednesday afternoon of last week, we had barely time to announce the death of George R. Day, a well-known and highly respected citizen of this place, which occurred at an early hour that morning, at Olena, Ill. whither he had gone a week previous.

His remains reached this village, via the D.L.&W. Railroad on Saturday morning last, accompanied by Mr. William Thompson, of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] who had been his traveling companion throughout his journey. A large number of citizens, including members of the Fire Department, with which he was connected, assembled at the depot upon the arrival of the train, and escorted the remains to his late residence, where his stricken family and relatives awaited them.

On Sabbath morning there was an unusually large attendance at the funeral, members of the Steamer company and others of the Fire Department appearing with appropriate badges and taking part in the solemnities of the occasion. Services were held in the M.E. Church, of which deceased was an active member, and were conducted by Rev. W.J. Judd, the pastor.  The exercises were very impressive and the allusions to the departed, so feelingly made by his pastor and friend, met with many a tearful response form the large audience, evincing their estimate of his worth as a citizen and a brother.

The remains were interred in the village cemetery, in the presence of a large number of sympathizing relatives and friends.

We have been favored with the following particulars of the death of Mr. Day, written by an intimate friend, which will be read with interest by those who knew him:

"The death of him whose name stands at the head of this article, has made a profound impression in this community.  all classes untie in expressions of regret that he is gone.  Its very suddenness has shocked all hearts, while the fact that he died a thousand miles from home has intensified our grief and sorrow.

"He left his home for the west on Tuesday, the 22d of December, to be absent about two weeks.  He reached his friends in the western part of Illinois on Friday morning - Christmas day.  He was well and cheerful that day, and attended a Festival in the evening, where he took cold.  He did not feel well on Saturday, and Sunday he was very sick with pleura-pneumonia.  On Monday night he seemed to be better, but Tuesday was worse, and Wednesday morning at 5 o'clock he died.

"His remains were brought immediately home, accompanied by Mr. William Thomson, of Mt. Upton, who went with him to the west. they reached here on Saturday last.  His funeral was attended in the M.E. Church on Sunday morning at 11 o'clock and though there was services in all the other churches, the house was crowded to its utmost capacity.  Many came in from the country for miles around.  About seventy of the firemen attended in a body, to show their respects to their deceased comrade.  All hearts seemed to be in sympathy with the solemnity and sorrow of the occasion.  At the close of the service he was buried int he Norwich Cemetery. Everything connected with the funeral passed off in the most satisfactory manner, under the direction of Mr. N.B. Watkins.

"Mr. Day was born in this town, and not far from this village, July 25, 1831.  He has always lived in this County, and most of the time in this place.  He leaves a wife and one child to mourn his loss.

"He became a member of the M.E. Church about twenty years ago, and he has always been active, consistent and useful.  He has generally held some office in the church since his connection with it, and at the time of his death was both class leader and trustee.

"He was liberal and generous with his means to support the church, or any other worthy object that was presented.  He was very much interested in the temperance work and was one of the officers of the Union Temperance Association of this village.  He was connected with the Steamer Company, of the Fire Department, and was one of its most efficient members.

"As a businessman, Mr. Day was very correct.  He carefully met all of his obligations.  His word was as good as his note, and he stood high int he estimation of the reliable businessmen of this community.

"He was warmly attached to his family and friends.  His last words were "I wish I could see Hattie," meaning his wife, and expressed a longing desire to see her face once more.  

"His death is a great loss to the cause of morals and religion in general, and to the M.E. Church in particular.  May that mysterious Providence which has removed him from us so suddenly, raise up someone else to take his pace."

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, January 7, 1875

Marriage

BENNETT - SEACORD:  At the residence of the bride's father, in Truxton, N.Y., Dec. 30, by Rev. L. Lawton, Mr. George Bennett of Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], and Miss Eva M. Seacord, daughter of Dea. Wm. R. Seacord of Truxton.

Death

Joseph Walker, formerly a conductor upon the Midland Railroad, died at Oswego on Monday morning last.  He has had a lingering sickness, induced by injuries received while in the discharge of his duties as Conductor.  He is spoken of as always kind, courteous and affable in the discharge of his duties, and as a favorite with the traveling public.  He was a member of Norwich Commandery and enjoyed the confidence and respect of his brother Sir Knights.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, January 6, 1875

Deaths

NICHOLS:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], at the residence of Mr. Anson L. Cary, Mr. Jacob Nichols, aged 73 years, formerly of Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY]

HAYNES:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], ca Jan. 1st, Mr. Jonas Haynes, aged 78 years.  Mr. Haynes has spent the greater part of his life in Guilford, in the prime of life he united with the Episcopal Chruch, and for many years has filled the office of Senior Warden.  A man of sterling worth, respected and esteemed by all, honest and upright in the extreme, discreet in his judgment, firm in his friendship, he has stood as a pillar of strength in this community, in the Church and in his family, he has passed away, and we shall know his place no more, but the sweet remembrance of the just, shall flourish when he sleeps in dust.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, January 7, 1875

Marriages

At Triangle [Broome Co. NY], Dec. 23d, by Rev. H. Lyman, Mr. Cassius M. Parker, of Versailles, N.Y. [Cattaraugus Co.] to Miss Adlla Day of the former place.

In Barker [Broome Co. NY], Dec. 24th, by Rev. Wm. Palmer, Mr. Julius C. Lewis to Mary Kenyon.

In Sherburne, Dec. 31st, at the residence of the bride's father, Charles Davidson by Rev. Mr. Loveridge, Mr. Moses Aldridge of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Mary Davison of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, January 2, 1875

Deaths

WEAVER:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 12th, 1874, Mr. Jehial Weaver, aged 63 years.

BRIGGS:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 6th, 1874, of scarlet fever, Ada [Briggs] daughter of Mrs. R. Briggs, aged 4 years.

HOLMAN:  At Sargents Bluff, Dec. 19th, 1874, Meda Cole [Holman] wife of Jerome Holman and sister to Mrs. Dr. M.H. Fish of this place [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], aged 29 years.  The subject of this notice was destined to unite in her life the extremes which fall to the lot of but few.  A year ago, she came to Utica and had removed from her tongue what appeared to be a tumor.  In June last she journeyed across the State to look once more upon the features of her mother who was dying of cancer at the residence of her son-in-law, Dr. M.H. Fish, but arrived to learn that her parent had been buried two days. She again sought relief from the malady which afflicted her at the hand of the surgeons of this State but received no encouragement. She returned, finally, to yield up her breath in her new and distant home.  She was a person with pleasing manners, which made her many friends to whom the news of her early removal from their social circles, in which she was a favorite and an ornament will being sadness.  But they have the consolation that she died happy in the Christian faith.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, January 9, 1875

Marriages

LOW - BALCOM:  At the residence of the bride's father, in this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 31st, 1874, by the Rev. Stephen Wood, Mr. Luke Low and Miss Lois B. Balcom, daughter of Mr. Francis Balcom.

DECKER - GODFREY:  At the parsonage of Emanuel Chruch in Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], on the 6th inst. Mr. James A. Decker of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Minnie Godfrey of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

SHIPMAN:  In this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 7th inst., Julius Deloss Shipman, aged 18 years.

HENRY:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], on the 5th inst. Nettie [Henry] daughter of Mr. Myron Henry, aged 10 years.

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

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, December 31, 1874

Marriages

BOWKER - STANTON:  At the residence of the bride, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 23d, by Rev. W.J. Judd, Mr. Nelson Bowker of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] to Mrs. Martha J. Stanton of Norwich.

ROGERS - BATEMAN:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 20th?, by Rev. W.H. Waldron, Mr. Euclid? B. Rogers and Jennie Bateman, all of Norwich.

SLATER - CLARKE:  At the residence of the bride's mother, Dec. 11th, by Rev. J.W. LaMoine, Mr. Augustus P. Slater of Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Helen L. Clarke of Preston [Chenango Co. NY].

GALE - CLARKE:  At the residence of the bride's mother, Dec. Dec. 23d? by Rev. J.W. LaMoine, Mr. Byron G. Gale of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Adelia J. Clarke of Preston [Chenango Co. NY].

FLAGG - LOOMIS:  At the residence of the bride's father, Dec. 23d? by Rev. J.W. LaMoine, Mr. Adelbert Flagg to Miss Emma Loomis all of Smithville, N.Y.

DWIGHT - BANKS:  At the home of the bride in Willet [Cortland Co. NY], on 23d? inst. by Rev. B.B. Carruth, Mr. Emory A. Dwight to Miss Hattie Banks both of German, N.Y.

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On the afternoon and evening of the 24th inst., a party of relatives and friends of Mr. and Mrs. George Aldrich met at their home in Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], to celebrate the anniversary of their twenty-fifth nuptial day.  the number that participated in that long to be remembered event exceeded one hundred, including twelve relatives of Mrs. Aldrich from Pennsylvania.

The presents numbered about thirty, costing in the aggregate upwards of one hundred dollars, and when placed upon the table prepared to receive them, exhibited a brilliant and shining token of friendship. The whole party seemed to enjoy themselves exceedingly well, especially when they came to surround the table spread with the richest viands that heart could wish.  Rev. Mr. Nevis, of Plymouth, in behalf of Mr. and Mrs. Aldrich, tendered their sincere thanks to the visitors for the presents received, not for their intrinsic value alone, but as presents coming from friendly and endearing hearts, that will remain fresh in their memories through the journey of life.

Music seemed to flow from every mouth as nearly all participated in it.  Some played upon the piano, while others sang and joined in the chorus.  So well did they enjoy themselves that it was two o'clock in the morning before they thought of bidding their host and hostess "good night," and retiring to their respective homes.

Deaths

FITCH:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 27th, Mrs. Sarah M. Fitch of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] aged 71? years.

CARR:  At the residence of her son, Mr. Samuel B. Bacheller, in King Settlement [Chenango Co. NY], on Dec. 26th, Mrs. Esther Carr aged 67 years, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

SHERMAN:  At the County House in Preston [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 27th, Mrs. Samantha Sherman aged 102 years 3 months and 15 days.

COMSTOCK:  In St. Joseph, mo. Dec. 14th, Mr. Aleander A. Comstock aged 61 years, formerly of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY]

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DAY:  Suddenly in Olena, Ill on Wednesday morning Dec. 30th Mr. George M. Day of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] aged 43 years.

A telegram from R.P. Randall of Olena, Ill, received on Wednesday, the 30th inst., announces the sudden death of George R. Day, of this village, which occurred in that place at ten o'clock on the morning of that day.  A dispatch was received on Tuesday evening stating that Mr. Day was ill, but not dangerously, and requesting that his wife join him there, which she was making preparations to do when the second message brought the sad tidings of his death, with intelligence that his remains would be forwards to this village.

Mr. Day left on Tuesday of last week for a trip through the Western States, as we learn with a view to purchasing a farm upon which to locate.  Although no particulars are received, it is supposed that his death was caused by apoplexy, he having heretofore experienced symptoms of such an attack. While robust in appearance, he had not enjoyed good health for some time past.

Deceased was one of the firm of Day & Ashcraft, marble dealers of this village, and a much-respected citizen, whose loss will be felt both in social and business circles.  He leaves a widow and one son, who will receive the sympathies of a large circle of relatives and friends.

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Last week we made a brief mention of the death of David Milne, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], which occurred at Corning [Steuben Co. NY] on the 17th inst.  The papers of that village contain the particulars of his death and burial, together with sketches of his life, from which we condense the following.

Mr. Milne was a native of Forfar, Scotland, and reached his fortieth year in February last.  In 1848 he came to this country, and since that time he had been in the employ of various gas companies in this State as superintendent. June 1st, 1855, at Oswego, he married Miss Catharine McDougal, daughter of John McDougal, Esq. one of the original proprietors of the Norwich gas works, and now an esteemed citizen of Hornellsville.  Ten children were the fruits of this marriage, six sons and four daughters, of whom the six sons and two daughters are still living, the eldest a daughter eighteen years of age, and the youngest a son barely six months old.

His illness was inflammation of the bowels and lasted but ten days, not being considered dangerous until a week after he was attacked.  Every aid that could be given by physicians and friends was rendered, but without avail.

The funeral, which took place on Sunday, the 20th inst. was conducted by the Masonic bodies of which deceased was a member.  Services were held at the Presbyterian Church in Corning, in the morning, where an able and most fitting sermon was preached by Rev. Anson G. Chester.  The Methodist congregation and pastor were present, and the house was crowded with sympathizing friends.  After the services at the church, a special train of three coaches carried the remains, with the family, Masonic fraternity and friends nearly one hundred and fifty persons among whom were many of the prominent citizens of Corning to Hornellsville, where they were met at the depot by nearly three hundred Masons.  Here the procession of Masonic brethren and citizens - a large and imposing one - was formed and with the Hornellsville cornet Band moved to Hope Cemetery, where the last sad rites were performed. Worshipful Master H.A. Balcam of Painted Post Lodge delivering a solemn and impressive address at the grave.  Within the sound of his voice but few dry eyes were to be seen, and among these many unused to tears. After the ceremony the procession returned to the Osborn House, where the Hornellsville Lodges had provided a bountiful lunch.  The party from Corning returned to that place in the evening.

The Corning Democrat in speaking of his decease, pays the following well merited tribute to his worth, which will meet with a hearty response from those of our citizens who knew him best.

"His duties here brought him into contact with nearly every citizen, and by his uniform manliness and honorable conduct he gained a place in the esteem of our people seldom attained in so short a time.  In the home circle he was loved and honored, in his business relations he inspired trust and reliance, and in the social and fraternal gatherings, he was valued for his superior qualities of head and heart.  It was in the latter circles we came to know him, and we found an upright and conscientious citizen, friend and brother.  In culture and education, he evidenced a liberal and practical study, which added to his natural endowments, made him an interesting companion.  In his calling he had few superiors; his mechanical skill was marvelous and his industry proverbial.  His decease has cast a cloud of sorrow over this community, such as we are seldom called upon to chronicle."

It will be a satisfaction to the many friends of Mr. Milne to know that he had provided for his family by a life insurance of $3,000, and that he was also a member of the Masonic Relief Association, from which organization his widow will receive $2,000.  The family will make their future home in Hornellsville, the residence of Mr. McDougal, who, with his estimable wife, devotedly attended to every want of deceased and his family, during his last illness.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, December 31, 1874

Marriages

RICHARDSON - CONGER:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], on the 24th inst. by Rev. J.W. Barr, Mr. Samuel B. Richardson of Otselic [Chenango Co. NY] to Mrs. Elizabeht R. Conger of Smyrna.

GRASSFIELD - MORGAN:  In Willet [Cortland Co. NY], by Rev. Wm. R. Stone, Dec. 23d?, Mr. D.M. Grassfield and Miss Addie Morgan.

TENNANT - DELAVAN:  Byt he same Dec. 24th, Mr. J.M. Tennant and Miss Rhoda A. Delavan, all of Willet [Cortland Co. NY].

Death

William Packer, the pioneer of the town of Preston [Chenango Co. NY], departed this life on December 17th, after an extremely brief illness.  Only the Saturday previous he had visited this village and transacted important business with several of our citizens.  We met him on that afternoon, and though complaining of cold and chillness, he was cheerful and seemed to be good for several years more of usefulness.  We have known him from our early youth, and though his peculiarities were somewhat eccentric, he never failed to impress us as a man of integrity of character and of unblemished reputation.  We learned to regard him as one of those old school gentlemen, who look well to everything they undertake, believing that anything worth doing at all is worth doing well.  Few of them are left, but those who are command and receive the respect of all, as indeed did our venerable friend now deceased.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, December 30, 1874

Marriage

WHEELER - SPERRING:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], at the residence of the bride's parents on 24th, by Rev. Dr. Ayrault, Mr. Ralph B. Wheeler to Miss Emma Sperring.

Death

BURTON:  Mrs. Maria Burton was born in Bethel, Conn. Jan. 7, 1809 and died in Guilford, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], Sept. 3?, 1874.  A mother beloved by her children and respected by all who knew her, has suddenly passed away from the scenes of earth, leaving lonely the home that was made cheerful by her presence. She gave her heart to God more than forty years ago, but did not make a public profession until May, 1872., when she united with the M.E. Church in Guilford.  Words fail to tell of her blameless life, the charity she extended to all, and the kind offices she was ever ready to perform.  But her memory is precious, and as we laid her body down to rest on that beautiful afternoon in early autumn, hope by an eye of faith pointed to that bright land where parting come not, and where there is no need of the sun, "for the Lord God giveth them light, and they shall reign forever and ever."  H.D.F., in Christian Advocate

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 31, 1874

Marriages

At the Baptist Parsonage in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 22d, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Eugene W. Mallory to Miss Adelia C. Hubbard, both of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY].

Also, at Brisbin [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 22d, by the same, Mr. J.E. TenBroeck to Miss Emma G. Skillin, both of Brisbin.

Also, at the house of the bride's father, Dec. 24th, by the same, Mr. Adelbert W. Cole to Miss Dency C. [Wilcox] daughter of Paris Wilcox, all of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY].

Also, at the home of the bride, in this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 29th, by the same, Mr. Halsey F. Northrup, of Ellicottville, N.Y. [Cattaraugus Co.], formerly of this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Mary A. [Lansing] daughter of the late James Lansing.

At the home of the bride in German [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 22d, by Re.v B.B. Carruth, Mr. Emory A. Dwight, of German to Misws Hattie Banks.

At Goodland, Ind., Dec. 17th, at the residence of the bride's father, Rev H. Miner, Mr. H.K. Mosher of Goodland, formerly of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] to Mrs. M.A. Richardson, of Chicago.

Mr. H.K. Mosher, formerly of this village, now of Goodland, Ind. was married on the 17th inst. to Mrs. M.A. Richardson, of Chicago, Ill.  The marriage ceremony was performed by Rev. H. Miner, father of the bride.  Mr. L.H. Mosher, brother of the bridegroom, acting as groomsman, and the sister of the bride, Miss Anna Miner as bridesmaid.  The bride received many beautiful and liberal presents from friends in Chicago and Goodland and after a most sumptuous supper, and with the congratulations of friends, the newly married couple left on the evening train for a wedding visit to their friends in Michigan.  Horatio, we wish you and your beautiful bride, a very happy New year.

Deaths

In Brooklyn, Dec. 15th, Mrs. S. Frankie [Clark] wife of William Clark, and youngest daughter of P.G. Scott, formerly of this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], aged 21 years and 9 months.  In life beloved, / Now dead at rest, / God called her home, / He saw it best.

In Colesville [Broome Co. NY], Dec. 15th, Mrs. Eliza Ann Ketchum, aged 70 years and 11 months.

The "Worthies" of Norwich, Chenango County, NY (Past & Present of Norwich)

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, January 14, 1875

The Past & Present of Norwich

by S.S. Randall

The "Worthies" of Norwich

Among the most prominent reading and influential of those men who fifty years ago, in the prime or Meridian of their usefulness and vigor, directed the political, social, moral and religious counsels of Norwich were Obadiah German, Casper M. Rouse, Edmund G. Per Lee and his brother Abraham, Thompson Mead, James Birdsall, Lot Clark, John F. Hubbard, David Buttolph, Joseph S. Fenton, Henry Mitchell, Jonathan Johnson, Freeman Enos, Jarvis K. and Samuel Pike, Dr Harvey Harris, Charles York, Benjamin Chapman, Perez, John and Charles Randall, Abial Cook, Bela Farr, John Clapp, Cyrus Strong, Elisha Smith, Peter B. Guernsey and Edward Andrews.  These men, most of whom have long since gone to their rest in a green old age, leaving a few only of their contemporaries among us, as honored and revered monuments of the past, were half a century since, to their fellow citizens what your Hales, Thompsons, Beechers, Prindles, Folletts, Newtons, Teffts, Berrys, Johnsons, Rays, Browns, Walters, Chapman, Riders, Slaters, Hughsons, Per Lees, Scovilles, Youngs, Mitchells and many others that might be named are now [in 1875].

Gen. German belonged to the "old regime" of great and distinguished men - to the class of the Canton, Spencers, Livingstons, Suydams and Jays, of the olden time.  He was a power in the State - exerting a controlling influence in the legislature - elevated to the Speaker's chair and deemed worthy to represent the State in the United States Senate.  Dignified and courteous in his manners - of a stately and commanding presence - aristocratic in all his principles and ideas - he towered among his fellow men, as "an eagle in his pride of place."  His intellectual abilities though not of the highest order, were such as to rank him among the "men of mark" by whom he was for so many years surrounded in the political councils of the State and Nation.  During a period of extraordinary political excitement prior to and pending the war of 1812 with Great Britain he ranked among the leading and most trusted Statesmen at the head of public affairs.  His memory and the recollection of his eminent services in the Legislative halls and tribunals of justice, should be faithfully preserved by the citizens of the town from whence he emerged into civic greatness and where in a good old age, in the order of Christianity he sank to rest.

Of Judge Rouse it is quite needful to speak, as tradition, handed down from generation to generation, has rendered his personal characteristics familiar.  Though repeatedly honored with high stations on the bench and in the Legislative halls, and occupying an influential position in the town, village, and county of his residence he could scarcely be ranked among its greatest men.  His personal, social moral and religious character was unexceptionable; his peculiarities and eccentricities harmed no one but himself, and it is due to truth to say that many of these were grossly exaggerated by the careless and reckless humor of his jovial contemporaries.

Edmund G. Per Lee:  and Abraham Per Lee were residents of the same section of the town as their distinguished fellow citizen, Gen. German.  the former, for many years worthily and ably represented the county in the lower branch of the State Legislature.  He was a gentleman of high literary culture - of dignified appearance and manners - and possessed of great personal popularity and political influence.  His brother Abraham, though never emerging or aspiring to emerge from the shades of private life, was equally respected and beloved.  The family escutcheon has recently received additional brilliancy in one of its descendants who nobly sustained his country's flag during the late civil war.

Gen. Mead was also a resident of North Norwich, and although not a man of superior talents or marked abilities, long enjoyed the esteem and confidence of his fellow citizens generally.  In his early youth he led into the field a gallant regiment of volunteers against the British in the well contested field of Chippewa, side by side with the youthful Scott in his first passage of arms and was subsequently repeatedly appointed and elected sheriff of the county.

James Birdsall was one of the most highly polished and highly cultured citizens of the town.  Gentlemanly in appearance - with a flowing and all comprehending courtesy - an intellect equally adapted to grasp the most subtle and complicated mysteries of finance and to "govern men and guide the State" amid the noisy and turbulent warfare of politics, - his personal influence over those who came in contact with him was unequaled.  He represented the district in Congress, and the county in the State Legislature with signal ability, and as Cashier and President of the Bank of Chenango ably and skillfully conducted that institution through some of its most formidable and threatening embarrassments.  He possessed all the essential elements of intellectual greatness and under more favorable auspices could not have failed to take rank among the leading statesmen and financiers of the country.  Perhaps no citizen of Norwich ever did more for the promotion of social amenities and graces of the circle in which he moved or contributed in a greater extent to its social enjoyment.  Owing to a series of pecuniary troubles and ill health he transferred his residence, late in life, to Michigan, where he remained until his death.  His wife was the daughter of Judge Stephen Steere, one of the earliest and wealthiest pioneers of Norwich, and his own eldest daughter became the wife of the late Lieu't Governor Fenton of Michigan.

Lot Clark - his uncompromising and formidable political rival - formed a striking companion figure to the polished and willowy Birdsall.  No two persons could have been more unlike in all outward characteristics.  The one smooth, versatile, gentlemanly, courteous, bland and companionable - the other, ungraceful, unpolished, gnarled, angular, inaccessible, outspoken and unfamiliar to all but a chosen few.  But in a direct hand-to-hand intellectual, political or legal melee, the direct, well aimed, well planted blows of the lank, awkward, heavy jointed giant were more than a match for the glittering and polished weapons of his adversary.  As a counsellor, Mr. Clark was invaluable - as a strategist in the fields of political warfare or legal combat unsurpassed. The magic gift of eloquence was denied him,, but his fertile brain furnished ample resources for every contingency of the forum or the hustings.  He sought not the breath of popularity - possessed none of the sycophant arts of the demagogue - aspired to no official station - resorted to none of the devices of the ambitious office seeker; yet was he implicitly believed in and trusted by the democratic masses of the people. They took him on their broad shoulders and thrust him into the halls of congress, and there he instantly took root and flourished by the side of Henry Clay, William H. Crawford and Martin Van Buren, and became their life-long friend and trusted counsellor and coadjutor.  A rough diamond of the mines!  Or, rather shall we say a gnarled stout oak of the forest - tossing its broad branches hither and thither in response to the fierce winds and storms of heaven - pervious only to the poisonous worm hidden deep in its roots, and slowly but surely sapping and blighting its majestic heart.

The biography of John F. Hubbard remains yet to be written.  contemporary with all these "worthies" herein commemorated, he is yet among us, loved, honored and esteemed.  Intimately identified with all the important movements of the past half century - "quorum pars magna fuit" he remains - and long may he continue to remain, to enjoy his well won reputation, surrounded by "honor, obedience and troops of friend's."  To the same category belong the names of Benjamin Chapman and Doctor Harvey Harris.  

David Buttolph was a learned and astute counsellor in all legal matters - a quiet, modest, retiring citizen - a life-long Christian - an affectionate husband and father.  His first law partner was Mr. Birdsall - his last, Charles A. Thorp - one of the best of men, devoted to his profession - and an ornament to the society in which he lived.

Abial Cook was of the suigeneris species. As an eloquent and successful pleader at the County Court and circuit Bar, he had no rival; as a legal scholar he was sadly deficient - relying too confidently on his own resources and disinclined to close application or exhaustive study.  As a politician he was uniformly unsuccessful, and consequently universally disgusted with party tactics.  In this field he was "everything by turns and nothing long."  But it was as an ever-welcome member of the social circle that he shone conspicuously. There in the full abandonment of his fine intellect and genial appreciation of humanity in all its phases, he poured forth spontaneously his conceptions on all subjects discussed - whether pertaining to literature, politics, science, art or the passing events of the day.  No party ties could bind him - no critical ipsedixit - no platitudes of orthodox divinity - no consideration of policy or prudence.  and thus, he passed through the measure of his days, cordially attached to an interesting family - appreciating far beyond every market standard the value of his possessions - detecting and obsecrating all politicians - and at peace with all the "rest of mankind."

Bela Farr was a genuine philosopher - not certainly of the stoic, nor yet of the epicurean school - rather leaning to the latter - but in the old Greek days of Plato and the Sophists, he would, unquestionably, have been found early and late in the train of Socrates - gravelling all those pretenders to philosophy who ventured to enter the arena against him.  Bela was a poor man, with a large and steadily increasing family around him, dependent upon his labors as a scientific optician inventor and watch maker, but no consideration of sordid gain could for a moment detain him from the social converse of that literary coterie which was wont to assemble in those early days of Byron, Shelley, Coleridge and the Waverley Novels, at the County Clerk's office, or Noyes' store, or other places of public resort.  There he was sure to find the two Hubbards, Abial Cook, "Perez" and perchance some literary visitor, and there he was sure of "good talk," and of audience "fit though few."  There Bathe, Nichol Jarvis, Edie Ochiltree, Rob Roy, The Antiquary, Kenilworth and Ivanhoe were discussed.  Byron's nervous satires and misanthropic complaints appreciated, Dryden's "stalwart line" enjoyed, and ancient and modern literature criticized and sifted. What in comparison with this "Nectar of the Gods" were clocks, watches, spectacles and trusses - the drudgery of labor, and the balancing of weekly accounts with the "grocer the baker, and cabinet maker."  Like his great prototype, he could immerse himself in profound study and reflection for hours, "taking no note of time" or worldly concerns.  Enviable and happy man.  His soul was filled, and expanded and grew apace - and now that fifty years have passed, and his mortal existence with them - was it not as well.

But we must defer the residue of our sketches of the "Worthies of Norwich" to another occasion and for the present take our leave of these kindly remembrances of the long ago past.

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

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, December 24, 1874

Marriages

FOLLETT - WIGHTMAN:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 18th?, by Rev. W.H. Waldron, Mr. Albert Follett to Miss Lorena Wightman, both of South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY].

DIMMICK - MUNSON:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 17th at the residence of the bride's father, A. Munson, Esq., by Rev. Charles C. Johnson, Mr. Frank H. Dimmick to Miss Sarah E. Munson, all of Smyrna.

VAN DUSEN - LAW:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 20th, by William T. Priest, Esq., Mr. John Van Dusen to Miss Ida A. Law, both of Pharsalia.

GARDNER - PARK:  In Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], Dec. 9th?, by Rev. S.H. Moon, Mr. Squire Gardner of Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Fannie M. Park of Butternuts.

LEWIS - WRIGHT:  In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], Nov. 27th, by Rev. Dr. Paddock, Mr. Henry J. Lewis of New Milford, Pa., to Miss Mary J. Wright, of Chenango Forks [Broome Co. NY].

Deaths

SCOTT:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 21st, of typhoid pneumonia, after a brief illness, Jerry [Scott] son of Ira Scott, aged 13 years.

DANIELS:  In Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], Dec. 6th, Frederick [Daniels] son of Charles and Delora Daniels, aged 1 year, 2 months and 12 days.

BELLENGER:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], of scarlet fever, Elmer [Bellenger] youngest son of Philip P. and M.C. Bellenger, aged 3 years, 1 month and 11 days.

"This lovely bud, so young and fair, / Called hence by early doom, / Came but to show how sweet a flower / In Paradise would bloom, / He is not dead - he only sleeps! / Not lost, but gone before, / Chide not the stricken heart that weeps, / The tear that falls or love that keeps / His image evermore."

A little girl, four years old, daughter of John Egan of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], fell backward into a tub of boiling water on Thursday, scalding her in a dreadful manner, and causing her death on Monday.

Judson C. Brown a well-known and influential citizen of Richfield Springs [Otsego Co. NY], died on the 15th inst.

Joseph L. Hatch aged sixty-one years, a respected citizen of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY], fell dead while shaving himself on the 4th inst.

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MILNE:  In Corning [Steuben Co. NY], Dec. 18th, Mr. David Milne, aged about 40 years, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

A dispatch from Corning, on Friday morning of last week, announced the death of David Milne, at his residence in that village.  Deceased will be remembered by many of our citizens as a former resident of this village, he having for two years capably filled the position of superintendent of Messrs. Hayes & Rider's gas works.  Three years ago last spring he removed to corning, where he has since resided, in charge of the gas works in that place.  Although we are without particulars as to the cause of his death, we learn that it resulted from a surgical operation for the relief of a painful and aggravated disease from which he at times suffered much while a resident here.

The announcement of the death of Mr. Milne was received with profound sorrow by his many friends in Norwich, but to those who knew him intimately, who had learned to esteem him for his many excellent qualities, the sad news came with painful force.  Courteous in his deportment, gentlemanly in his intercourse with all, a genial companion and a large-hearted friend, generous to a fault, he leaves behind him, here and elsewhere, hosts of friends in whose hearts his memory will be ever cherished.

An estimable widow and a large family of children survive him, who have the sympathy of all who know them.  Funeral services were held on Sunday and the remains were taken to Hornellsville [Steuben Co. NY] for interment.

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PACKER:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 16th, Mr. William Packer, aged 87 years.

At the time of our going to press on Wednesday afternoon of last week, we had barely time to briefly mention the death of the venerable William Packer of Preston which occurred on that day. A friend of the deceased, who has known him long and intimately, has favored us with the following sketch of his life.

Deceased was born in Guilford, Vermont, July 10th, 1787, and moved to Preston, N.Y. in 1804 in which town he has ever since resided.  July 1st, 1800, he married Abigail Mason of DeRuyter with whom he congenially lived until March 24th, 1860, when death separated them.  Two sons and two daughters were born to them, the youngest of the daughters dying in youth and the eldest at middle age.  The two sons yet live to guard the handiwork of the father.

An early settler in his town, the deceased took an active part in the various interests that arose, both public and private.  He was a convivial man with those whom he met, was never without his trite story or pithy anecdote, and had always a good word for every man.  He was never without his plans of business, which he pursued to the day of his death, with such success as attends the man who applies himself to the pursuits of life.  With a clear head, unceasing energy and indomitable perseverance, he had accumulated a competence, which was not hoarded up for private use, as the public well know.  He gave from time to time such sums as were quite acceptable, for the purpose of building churches, the support of the missionary cause, and the spread of the gospel at home.  That he always gave for the cause of Christianity, I may mention the fact stated to me by a well-known clergyman, that he himself had many times called upon him within the last twenty years, for various benevolent and charitable purposes, and that he had only to state distinctly the cause for which he solicited and the contribution was at once forthcoming.

Having embraced the cause of his Redeemer at an early period of life, he was always ready and free to give his views on the subject of Christian religion, which he followed through life according to his own light and understanding of the principles set forth in Revelation, without accepting the dogmatic teachings of any.  He was a man who always did his own thinking.

That he was peculiar is true, yet he was not eccentric.  He was of a family of which a large percentage were consumptives, yet with abstemious habits, strict temperance, and a large amount of outdoor life, he lived to four score years and more.  Having fulfilled his mission in life, the silver cord was at length loosed and he died having full faith in his Redeemer, quietly resigning his soul to God and biding his attendants "Good by-good by."

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, December 24, 1874

Marriage

GARFIELD - CRANDALL:  On the 21st inst. at the Parsonage by Rev. L.M.S. Haynes, Geo. Garfield  of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] and Clara A. Crandall of North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY]

Deaths

RACE:  In Union City, Mich. on 1st, Lucius A. Race son of J.N. Race, formerly of Brisben [Chenango Co. NY].

William Combe, of Jordan [Onondaga Co. NY], a veteran of the war in 1812, well known in central New York, died a few days ago, at the residence of his son, in Arlington, Mich.  He was born at Springfield, Otsego County, N.Y. in the year 1796.  His father, Samuel Combe, was at that period a conspicuous figure on the border and later with his six sons, all giants, mingled in the conflicts of those periods, and left marks remembered for many a year.  William Combe entered Captain Harris' company of United States light dragoons, participated with Scott at Chippewa, Lundy's Lane and Fort George, was at Niagara, Queenston Heights, Sackett's Harbor and Sandy Creek. At the close of the war he settled in Jordon, Onondaga county, N.Y. but always restless he "did not wish to die a natural death, but at the point of the bayonet."  In the late war, his sons entering the army, he, an old man, shouldered a musket, and participated in the great battel of Antietam "to throw his life away," as he said, but the death he desires was not his fate.  One brother only of the band of six survives him (Charles), a resident of Brooklyn, two years his senior.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 24, 1874

Marriages

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 17th, by the Rev. Dr. F. Rogers, at the residence of Mr. S.P. Thomas, Mr. Joseph W. Sturgeon to Miss Mary H. Bunnell.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 28th, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. Homer Brooks to Miss Dellie Brooks, both of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 19th, Mary E. [Marino], daughter of R.J. Mario, aged 5 years.

Daniel Punderson an eccentric old man, well known in this section, died at the Broome County Poor house, a few days since.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, December 26, 1874

Marriage

BROOKS - LATHROP:  At the residence of the bride's father, in this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 23d inst. by Rev. D.K. Bartlett of Albany, Mr. DeForest D. Brooks ad Miss Minnie C. [Lathrop] eldest daughter of G.W. Lathrop, both of this town.

Death

MYERS:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], on the 21st inst. Dr. Charles H. Myers aged 28 years.  His remains were carried to Herkimer [Herkimer Co. NY], his former residence for interment.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, December 26, 1874

Marriages

WRIGHT - HASTINGS:  At the M.E. Church in this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co. NY], by Rev. A.B. Richardson, Dec. 23d, 1874, Mr. J.W. Wright to Miss Carrie E. Hastings all of Bainbridge.

The marriage ceremony of Mr. J.W. Wright and Miss Carrie E. Hastings was performed in the M.E. Church in this village, on Wednesday evening, by Rev. A.B. Richardson.  A reception took place at the Hastings house previous to the nuptial ceremony, at which there was a large number of invited guests. The bridal party will make a week's visit in New York.

BLAKE - BRANDT:  At the residence of the bride's father, Mr. N.F. Brant, December 1, 1874, by Rev. W.H. Sawtelle, Mr. A.P. Blake and Miss Lottie A. Brandt, both of Nineveh [Broome Co. NY].

BLY - LANDERS:  At the residence of the bride's father in Afton [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 12, 1874, by Rev. J. Jones, Albert J. Bly, of Addison, N.Y. [Steuben Co.] to Miss minie A. Landers of Afton.

LYON - SMITH:  At the residence of the bride's father in Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 23d, by the Rev. O.W. Abrams, Mr. Richard G. Lyon to Miss Ellen E. Smith, both of Bainbridge.

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

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, December 17, 1874

Marriages

PETERS - TERWILIGER:  At the Morgan City Hotel on Saturday evening, December 6th, 1874, by Rev. J.H. Lathron, Mr. C.E. Peters formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], and Miss Hattie Terwiliger all of Clay County, Kansas.

The fifth anniversary of the wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Easton was recently celebrated.  A large number of friends assembled and made the occasion glad with their presence as well as presents.  Mr. and Mrs. E. are highly respected by all their neighbors and friends and the gathering was worthy of them.

Death

LEVERSEE:  At Saratoga Springs, November 12, suddenly, of rupture of a blood vessel, Peter Leversee, a former resident of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], aged 73 years and 9 months.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, December 16, 1874

Marriages

HOVEY - HEARTWELL:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], on 9th, by Rev. J.C. Ward, Mr. George A. Hovey to Miss Marrilla Heartwell.

BOULLS - DEWEY:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], on 9th, by Rev. J.C. Ward, Mr. Thomas M. Boulls to Miss Martha Dewey, of Platsburgh, N.Y. [Clinton County].

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 17, 1874

Marriage

In Hyde Park, Pa., Nov. 19th, by Rev. R.W. Van Schoick, Mr. George W Milter of Scranton [PA], to Miss Mary J. [Davy] daughter of Rev. J. Davy, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

In Colesville [Broome Co. NY], Dec. 13th, Howard [McCullough] son of James and Harriet McCullough, aged 2 years, 8 months and 16 days.

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 14th Amarilla Terrell aged 92 years and 6 months.

In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], on Thursday morning, Dec. 10th Henry A. [Race] youngest son of Frederick S. and Elizabeth Race, aged 5 years, 10 months and 6 days.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, December 19, 1874

Deaths

MOORE:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 16th inst. Mrs. Lydia Moore aged 54 years, 6 months and 27 days.

PADDLEFORD:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 17th inst. Mrs. Sarah Paddleford, aged 64 years, 8 months and 26 days.

FOSTER:  Mattie A. Foster, granddaughter of R.H. and S. Lee, died Dec. 6th, 1874, aged about 14 years.  Mattie, with one sister older, and one sister and brother younger than herself, was left motherless about six years since.  She with her older sister has lived with their grandparents ever since.  They oved her so dearly that her death to them was like that of her mother, who was their only daughter.  And well do they mourn.  Mattie was like an angel taken from the family circle.  She was unusually sweet tempered.  She seemed to love all good things and pleasant ways.  She was far in advance of her years in real womanhood.  She was dearly loved by all who knew her.  Her sickness was short and severe.  One comfort is that we are sure she is saved by the power of Jesus Christ and lives to die no more.  Yet we sadly inquire "The young, the loved, the beautiful, / Why must they pass away."  That we may all meet, never to part, that we may gain a better, higher life.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, December 19, 1874

Marriage - Brilliant Social Event 

At the last celebration of the anniversary of our National Independence, Elliot Danforth Esq., a promising young lawyer of Middleburgh, Schoharie Co. [NY] was engaged to deliver the oration.  While on the rostrum he discovered in his vast audience the person of Miss Ida Prince, only daughter of Dr. G. Prince, of this place [Bainbridge, Chenango Co. NY], formerly of Brooklyn.  An introduction was sought and obtained, and the acquaintance ripened into friendship and affection, and on Thursday afternoon at precisely two o'clock, the nuptials were celebrated at the residence of the bride's father. The social circles have long been agog with vague prophesies concerning the manner and extent of the festivities and were only partially satiated on the appearance of the elegantly engraved invitations.  Fully six hundred people were invited, and it is estimated that upwards of two hundred availed themselves of that power to be present, among whom we noticed Judge Danforth and lady, and Gen. D. Danforth and lady, of Middleburgh; Judge A.P. Smith and lady, of Cortland; Judge Chas. Holmes and daughter, of Cobleskill; Hon. James Stewart and lady, of Oneonta; Senator Wm. Laimbeer, of New York; Hon. M.W. Stevens, of Schoharie; Hon George Beeker, of Binghamton; H.S. Morse, Esq. of Oneonta, Supt. A.&S.R.R.; J. W. Hutt, Esq. of Albany, Supt. National Express Co.; A.V.V. Dodge, H.C. Van Dyck and John S. Delehanty, Esqs., of Albany; Hon. Joseph Bush, Revs. A.B. Richardson and D.N. Grummond, of this place; Rev. C.P. Whitecar, of Middleburgh, besides others from abroad not mentioned and a large number of our citizens. The ceremony was performed in a very impressive and easy manner by Rev. A. Reynolds, of Binghamton, and the music, the "Nellie Grant Wedding March," was admirably executed by Prof. S.N. Copley.  The bride was dressed in pure, white silk, handsomely ornamented, white veil, with orange blossoms in her hair, and resembled the princess in the Fairy Tale, who had stepped out from the leaves of a flower to charm all who saw her.  She was the cynosure of all eyes, and indeed an eye feast.  The groom appeared in a neat suit of conventional black, with white lace necktie and white gloves. The bridesmaids were Misses Jessie Laimbeer, of New York and Lizzie Bishop, of Jersey City, the former dressed in blue silk and the latter in pink silk. They were peculiarly attractive in person and graceful in manner.  The groomsmen were Messrs. W.C.B. Danforth of Middleburgh and Wm. T. Fondey, of Albany, who were also, of course, dressed in black.  We shall not attempt a description of the ornate toilets of the bride, bridesmaids or the other ladies present, but suffice it to say they were elegant and appropriate. The presents were numerous, rich and valuable, attracting much attention and many favorable compliments, and indeed justly so, for besides the magnificent array of the latest patterns of silver goods, the bride was the recipient of an elegant $600 piano from her mother and a well-lined purse from her father, while the father of the bridegroom made his son's heart glad by the presentation of another well filled purse.  The refreshments were par excellence, and profuse even to prodigality.  Mrs. Ida Danforth was a great favorite in Bainbridge, and her retirement from our social circles is greatly deplored. She is amiable in character and disposition and deserving of a lot in life reserved for the favorites of fortune.  That in her new existence she may obtain the chiefest of blessings that mortals have, and all those that her youthful hopes now paint for her, we know to be the cordial and sincere wish of all who have been fortunate enough to form her acquaintance.  The newly married couple will make a three weeks' tour through some of the southern cities, after which they will return to Middleburgh to reside.  In its every appointment and feature we must pronounce it the grandest wedding ever celebrated in this section. 

Deaths

November 2d, at the dawn of day, fell asleep at his home in Afton, N.Y. [Chenanog Co.], Charles S. Landers, in the 21st year of his age, eldest son of George and Harriet P. Landers.  During a long and painful illness, tenderly watched by his devoted parents and friends, his fortitude and patience were most exemplary, and his death, when at length "the silver cord was loosed" was the blessed release of a peculiarly pure, gentle and noble spirit from a feeble body, of one so good, conscientious, and candid as was the youthful subject of this notice. High hopes were entertained by all who enjoyed his acquaintance.  At school his instinctive and unswerving devotion to whatever was right, his prompt and able defense of the weak, and his controlling manliness of character and conduct ever won for him the admiration and respect of his associates.

In the early demise of one so rich in noble characteristics and consequently so full of the promise of usefulness the adage that "death loves a shining mark" is again illustrated.  His earthly career indeed was brief, but as a baptized and renewed child of the Heavenly Father, death has admitted him to a world where the limitations of this mortal life are unknown.

The fond and well-founded hopes that centered in him have indeed been suddenly and most sadly disappointed and stricken and bereaved hearts mourn his early death.  For us all it only remains, while cherishing his now glorified memory, to bow in Christian faith and submission to the decree of the All-Wise that called him hence, and breathe the prayer "Thy will, O God, be done."

Young Landers' associates at school have sent the following resolutions of friendship and respect to the bereaved family, accompanied by a letter of sympathy and condolence, in which they also record their admiration for their lamented school fellow and companion.

Belles Lettres Hall, Dec. 3d, 1874

At a special meeting of the Belles Lettres Union Society of the Dickenson Seminary, Williamsport, Pa., held yesterday to take action in reference to the death of our late fellow member, Charles S. Landers, the following resolutions were unanimously adopted:

Resolved, That in the death of Charles S. Landers, we have lost not only a kind and devoted friend, but a firm advocate of that which is right.

Resolved, That inasmuch as it has pleased God to remove him from our midst, we, together with the sorrowing parents, can but bow in humble submission to the will of "Him who doeth all things well," with the consciousness that though "He who afflicteth with the one hand can sustain with the other," and to His care would we commend the sorrowing stricken friends of the deceased.

Resolved, That in respect to the memory of our lamented brother we drape our hall in mourning for the usual space of time, and that a copy of these resolutions be published in the Gazette & Bulletin and the Star of Literature, and that a copy be forwarded to the bereaved parents.

Committee:  N. Sarge Ross, F. Asbury Gilbert, J. Emory Gossuck

Dr. Harris H. Beecher, Surgeon, 114th NY Infantry, Civil War

 

Dr. Harris H. Beecher – Obituary

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, July 18, 1889

After a long and painful illness, Dr. Harris H. Beecher peacefully passed from life, at the residence of O.H. Wheeler on Henry Street [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] at seven o’clock Sunday morning last.

Dr. Beecher was born in Coventry, this county [Chenango Co. NY], November 21^st, 1820.  His father, Parson Beecher, was one of the early settlers of that town, having removed from Connecticut in 1806.  While young, the subject of this sketch was incapacitated for manual labor from an injury and at the age of sixteen he was sent to Oxford Academy, where he remained four years, teaching at intervals.  He then commenced the study of medicine with different practitioners in his native town, and subsequently at Binghamton, in the office of Dr. Davis, now Professor in Chicago.  In the latter part of 1847, he was graduated in medicine at Castleton, Vt.

In the spring of 1848 Dr. Beecher located at North Norwich, where he built up a lucrative practice in his profession.  That he was popular in his new home is shown by his election to various town offices, he having held the office of School Superintendent for several years, and represented his town in the Board of Supervisors in 1850.

He removed to Norwich in December 1861, where he has since practiced, with the exception of three years spent in the army, which he entered in 1863, as Assistant Surgeon of the 114^th Regiment, at the organization of that regiment, serving in that capacity till the close of the war and the disbandment of the regiment.  For nearly nine months he was on duty by order of Gen. Banks, at the United States Marine Hospital at New Orleans, and also for several months in charge of a post-hospital at Berwick City, La., containing a large number of wounded from the battlefield of Bisland.  Before leaving the Marine Hospital for the famous Red River campaign, he was presented by the soldiers of that hospital with an elegant gold headed cane and other valuable tokens of their appreciation and regard.  In the Shenandoah Valley, during the closing year of the war, he was most of the time the only medical officer with his regiment in the field.

Dr. Beecher early exhibited a literary taste, and wrote on miscellaneous subjects for the newspaper press, which he continued more or less until ill health prevented.  He was for years the local correspondent of the Utica Herald.  In 1866 he published a “Record of the 114^th Regiment” a work of nearly six hundred pages, dedicated to his lamented Colonel Elisha B. Smith and his fallen comrades.

During his residence in Norwich, Dr. Beecher was a well-known and respected citizen.  Quiet and unassuming, kindhearted and affable, he had hosts of friends.  He was for years a Trustee of Norwich Academy, and President of the Board.  In 1874 he was elected Member of Assembly and served on the Committees on Public Health, Public Education and Joint library.  He held the office of Pension Examiner and was President of the Board until a change in the administration took place.  But a few weeks since he was reappointed to the office.  He was a prominent member of the Chenango County Medical Society, of the State Medical Society, and other Medical Associations.  A ready speaker, he was often upon the platform and gave carefully prepared addresses, embracing medical, agricultural, scientific and political subjects.  He was one of the charter members of Smith Post, G.A.R., and took great interest in the observance of Memorial Day and was at his death Corresponding Secretary of the 114^th Regimental Association, an organization which he first suggested.  For years he took much interest in a proposed soldiers’ monument which failed for want of public encouragement and later he has interested himself in raising funds for a monument to the memory of his deceased Colonel, his efforts ending with his death.  He was popular with the veterans of the war, who cannot forget his tender ministrations in the hospital and on the battlefield.  Many an eye moistened when it was announced that their old Surgeon was no more.  He will be missed at their annual reunions, at the observance of Memorial Day, at their Post gatherings, on the streets.  He will be missed by this community, of which he has so long been a useful and esteemed member.

He was never married.  Three brothers and two sisters survive him:  Daniel Beecher and Hector Beecher of Coventry; Harry Beecher of Norwich, Mrs. Hoyt, of Pittston, Pa and Mrs. Yale of Binghamton.

Funeral

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, July 17, 1889

His funeral was attended Tuesday morning.  Smith Post, G.A.R., and the Chenango County Medical Society attended in a body.  There were also present many representatives of his old regiment, the 114^th, and a large concourse of citizens.  The funeral services were conducted by Rev. W.G. Partridge, with prayer by Rev. C.C. Otis.  A detail of Smith Post accompanied the remains to Coventry, where the interment took place with Grand Army ritual.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, December 17, 1874

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, December 17, 1874

Marriage

JOHNSON - BURDICK:  In Gilbertsville [Otsego Co. NY], Nov. 29th, by Rev. S.H. Moon, Mr. Charles Johnson of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Jennie Burdick of Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

BRIGGS:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 6th, of scarlet fever, Ada [Briggs], daughter of Mrs. R.  Briggs, aged 1 year.

WEAVER:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 12th, Mr. Jehial Weaver aged 86 years.

RACE:  In Union City, Mich., Dec. 1st, of typhoid fever, -?- A. Race, son of J.S. Race, formerly of Brisbin [Chenango Co. NY].

WEBSTER:  In Fort Plain, Dec. 3d, of consumption of the bowels, Julia Follet [Webster], daughter of Charles W Webster, aged 18 years, 8 months and 16 days.  "Earth has one daughter less, / Heaven one angel more."

New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], The Gazette states that William S. Dargavel a highly esteemed member of Typographical Union No. 6, of New York, who was drowned in the San Antonio River, in Texas, on the 20th ult., served an apprenticeship in the Gazette office, something like a dozen years ago. At the expiration of his time, he went to Oneida where he was employed upon the Dispatch about one year, when he went to New York, where, after a few years of arduous toil, he was stricken down with lung disease, and consumption stared him in the face.  He then went south, hoping to regain his health, and was drowned as above stated while attempting to swim the river, to deposit his letter in the Helena post office.

The Otselic Falley Register announces the death of Jesse Bagley, formerly a well-known resident of Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], which occurred at Lanesboro, Pa., on Sunday morning, November 29th.  He left his son's residence where he had made it his home for several years past to attend divine service in the Methodist church and while waiting in the vestibule for the closing of the morning prayer, he dropped down dead.  His age was eighty-nine years.

The Children of Moses Homan, a boatman residing in Oneida [Madison Co. NY] were drowned at Fairport, Monroe Co. [NY] on the 4th inst. while playing upon unsafe ice.

A little son of George Adams of Hartford [Washington Co. NY], aged two years, was scalded to death a few days since, by accidentally falling into a boiler of hot water.

Henry L. Marble a prominent farmer of the town of Maryland [Otsego Co. NY], was found dead in his bed on the morning of the 4th inst.  Heart disease.

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CADY:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 12th, Mr. Nathan W. Cady, aged 68 years.

Nathan W. Cady, who has been confined to his bed for some weeks, from a scrofulous affection, died in Guilford on the 12th inst.  For over thirty years, as has been previously noticed, he held the position of Postmaster or Deputy at that place.  He was born just west of that village, near Root's Corners, and while a boy suffered the misfortune to lose a limb by amputation, from the disease which has now terminated his life.  When elder he taught school and subsequently learned the tailor's trade at Mt. Upton.  About the year 1830, he returned to Guilford, and entered upon the duties of Deputy Postmaster under the late Erastus Dickinson, and soon after under the late Dr. John Clark, continuing with short intervals either in that capacity or as Postmaster until his death.  During a portion of this time, he also discharged the duties of Town Clerk and Justice of the Peace.  In all these positions, as well as a private citizen, he was ever the same intelligent, courteous gentleman, enjoying alike the esteem of all parties and classes, for his strict honesty and integrity.  His habits were the most exemplary.  He was about 68 years old and was never married.  Aside from a brother and sister, he leaves a large circle of sincere friends to mourn his loss. 

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Guilford [Chenango Co. NY]:  One of our old and esteemed residents, Captain Milton H. Root, died after a lingering illness at his residence in our village on the 2d inst.  Born at Great Barrington, Mass. in 1792, he came with his parents at an early age to our township and settled at what afterwards was known as Root's Corners, two miles west of our place.  Here he experienced many of those hardships and incidents so common to the early settlers, that help to discipline the future strong men of worth and integrity.  Among those early trials, his family was obliged to go to Binghamton, in boats by way of the Chenango River to procure their milling.  These trips required several days and were attended with much labor and occasional danger.  He resided upon or adjoining the farm first settled by his father for upwards of sixty years and lived to witness the growth of a prosperous town where once he had beheld a wilderness and the introduction of improvements attendant upon advanced civilization.  At an earlier day he was the recipient of several offices and positions of honor at the hands of his townsmen.  A Democrat in you, he continued a steadfast supporter of that party through life, as well as a subscriber to the Norwich Journal and the Union from an early date.  He leaves a widow by a second marriage, and several sons and daughters by a former one.  Among his sons is George Root, Esq., of Afton.

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Guilford [Chenango Co. NY]:  Another of our old citizens, Rufus O. Smith, a brother of the late Samuel A Smith, Esq., and for many years a respected resident of our village, died December 3d, after a short sickness, aged 74 years.  Mr. Smith was a native of Connecticut and came to this vicinity some forty years ago, since which time he has been an industrious member of society.  About a year ago Mr. and Mrs. S. celebrated their Golden Wedding.  He leaves a wife and a large family of sons and daughters.

News Item

Mr. Editor:  I will borrow from Mrs. H.B. Stowe, the term, "My Wife and I" were married in the Episcopal Church in Southington, Conn., on the fourth day of October 1812.  We had early embraced the offer of our Heavenly Father, as recorded in His holy writings:  "In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct thy paths."  In the spring of 1817 I visited this County, purchased a tract of wild land in the south part of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] where the deer, beaver, wolf and martin had their habitation, the former too beautiful and playful to molest, the latter I have slain with my gun and as soon as convenient moved my family upon it.

We have been carried through the various vicissitudes of life incident to the settlement of a new country, and "have seen the desert blossom as the rose."  We have had five sons, whom we have brought up useful members of society, industrious and frugal - one a mechanic, two farmers, and two physicians - and two adopted daughters, who have respectably settled.  Three of our sons have departed this life, in faith of a glorious immortality beyond the grave, leaving families respectably provided for pecuniarily.  Our ages are eighty-four and eighty-six years.

I might add that my five sons were all true Democrats.  I have always voted that ticket, except that two years ago I voted for Horace Greeley for President.  In 1815 I received my first three degrees in friendship Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons.

Your paper is not a stranger in my family.  Soon after I came into the county, I commenced taking the Norwich Journal, and also the Oxford Gazette and since the two papers were united, the Union has constantly been our family paper.

Respectfully Yours, Leonard Foote, Oxford, Nov. 1874.

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

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, December 10, 1874

Marriages

COOK - FARRELL:  At the home of the bride, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Tuesday evening, Dec. 8th, by Rev. W.J. Judd, Mr. Orwin S. Cook to Miss Dora Helen Farrell.

CRAFT - HOFFMAN:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Monday evening, Dec. 7th, by Rev. W.J. Judd, Mr. Charles Craft to Miss Ida D. Hoffman, both of Morris, N.Y. [Otsego Co.].

PHELPS - SWEET:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 29th by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. James M. Phelps of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Augusta Sweet of Oxford.

LUTHER - WHITE:  In North Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 6th by Rev. J. Olney, assisted by Rev. L.H. Robinson, Prof. Delos Luther to Miss Mercy White, both of North Pharsalia.

BURCHARD - SQUIRES:  In East Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 2d by Rev. Dr. Ayrault, Mr. George B. Burchard of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Alice C. Squires of the former place.

Deaths

BUTTON: In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 3d, Mr. Raphael L. Button, aged 23 years and 10 months.

HALBERG:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 5th, Mr. Joseph Halberg, aged 60 years.

BROWN:  At her residence in Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 4th, Mrs. Maximilla Brown, wife of Parson brown, aged 79 years.

FRINK:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 1st, Mrs. Eunice Frink, widow of the late Nathan frink, aged 75 years.

COSS:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 2d, Mary [Coss], wife of Addison Coss, aged 23 years.

LYON:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 1st, Mr. Spardon Lyon aged 62 years.

NIVEN:  In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 15th, Emily [Niven], wife of John Niven, aged 52 years.

A.J. Henderson, formerly of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY], died suddenly at Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY], on the morning of the 30th ult.

Wilson A. Pierce, formerly of Cortland [Cortland Co. NY], died at Fort Scott, Kansas, on the 21st ult.  His remains were interred at Cortland, on the 27th, the funeral being attended by the Sumner Corps, of Syracuse, and Water Witch Hose Company of Cortland, deceased being at the time of his death an honorary member of both organizations.

Charles Lyman Morse, a former resident of the vicinity of Oneida [Madison Co. NY], was recently killed by the overturning of a dummy engine at Chicago.  His remains have been interred at Oneida.

Stephen Page one of the veterans of the war of 1812, died at his home near Chittenango Springs [Madison Co. NY], recently.

David Shaw, the oldest person in the town of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], died the 27th ult.  He was in his 98th year.

Peter Turrell of Windsor [Broome Co. NY], was run over by a freight train on the Erie Railroad near Gaffney's Crossing, six miles east of Susquehanna station, on Wednesday afternoon and killed.

Edward Dillon of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] while repairing a leak in a street gas pipe, on Monday, fell into the trench which he had dug, and was suffocated by the escaping gas.  He was dead when found.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, December 10, 1874

Marriages

HOLLIDAY - BARD:  At the Baptist Parsonage in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], December 5th, by Rev. L.M.S. Haynes, John Holliday of Middlefield, Otsego Co. [NY] and Ada Bard of Garrettsville, Otsego County [NY].

GIBSON - BROOKS:  Also, by the same, December 7th, Charles A Gibson and Sarah S. Brooks, both of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

MESSENGER - GRAHAM:  In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], December 6th by Rev. J.W. Barr, Mr. N. Lee Messenger of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], and Miss Frances C. Graham, of Otselic.

Death

Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY]:  The M.E. Church has sustained a severe loss in the death of Mrs. Helen Blackman, who although a suffering invalid for years, has been engaged in the service of the church.  The ladies will miss the work of her busy fingers in their efforts to pay for the furnishing of the new church.  Her death was gloriously triumphant, and although her sufferings were unparalleled, she was victorious over the last enemy.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, December 9, 1874

Marriage

KENNEDY - WHEELER:  At the Congregational Church in this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], on Tuesday evening, Dec. 1st, by Rev. H.P. Collin, assisted by Rev. E.H. Payson, Mr. J.H. Kennedy of Des Moines, Iowa, to Miss Alice E. Wheeler, of this village.

The Presbyterian Church in this village was crowded to its utmost capacity Tuesday evening, last week, by our villagers, to witness the marriage of Miss Alice E. Wheeler, daughter of Col. John B. Wheeler, of this village, and Mr. J. Henry Kennedy, of Des Moines, Iowa.  The ceremony was performed by the pastor, Rev. H.P. Collin, assisted by Rev. E.H. Payson, a former pastor, Mrs. Hayes presiding at the organ.  The "happy couple" and their attendants, to use a common expression, looked handsome, and were richly arrayed.  At the conclusion of the ceremony, the party returned to the residence of the bride's parents on Clinton Street, where a reception was held, the bride and groom receiving the congratulations of a large number of our citizens, congratulations were also received by telegraph from the home of the bridegroom.  A fine display of handsome and valuable presents were made, and a list of those made by friends in Des Moines, were numerous and valuable.  Wednesday morning Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy departed for their home in the West, taking with them the best wishes of a large circle of friends in this village.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 10, 1874

Marriage

In Marathon, N.Y. [Cortland Co.], at the residence of the bride's father, Dec. 2d, by Rev. H. Lyman, Mr. Frank P. Merchant to Miss Annie Hunt, both formerly of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 30, an infant child of Jesse and Betsey Ann Tuttle.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] (Page Brook), Nov. 30th, Emma J. [Fineout] daughter of Mrs. Eunice Fineout, aged about 18 years.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, December 12, 1874

Marriage

The friends of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Chase assembled at their residence on the evening of the 26th of Nov. to join with them in celebrating the tenth anniversary of their wedding.  There was about 200 of their friends present who seemed to enjoy themselves hugely.  Presents to the amount of about $100 were carried in.  One thing was demonstrated to a certainty, that is that they know how to fill a table with luxuries and to entertain company.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, December 12, 1874

Marriages

MITTER - DAVY:  At the residence of F.E. Shelton, Hyde Park, Nov. 29th, 1874, by Rev. R.W. Van Schoic, George W. Mitter of Scranton Pa., to Miss Mary J. Davy, daughter of Rev. J. Davy of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY].

Editor Republican:  We had the pleasure of attending one of the most pleasing gatherings a short time since that it has ever been our fortune to take a part in.  We allude to the wooden wedding of Mr. and Mrs. George Easton.  Five years ago, Mr. Easton took from her home and many friends the much-loved daughter of Mr. L. Pollard, to tread with him the checkered path of life. They started in life with the brightest of anticipations, which have so far been realized.  With but little encouragement at first, they have struggled on striving to obtain a home until now they possess one of the pleasantest homes in Coventry [Chenango Co. NY]. The presents were numerous and well fitted for the occasion.  There were about seventy guests present, and all seemed to enjoy themselves, especially Mr. Howard and Mr. Derby, who were the life of the company.  In the evening a beautiful table was spread with the choicest viands, all prepared by the bride's own hands.  After supper the company assembled in the parlor to witness the impressive ceremony of marriage.  After the ceremony was finished all proceeded to take part in those games which are the life of such occasions.  About twelve o'clock the company dispersed seemingly well pleased with the reception.  We can but say it was the pleasantest gathering we ever witnessed.  It is our earnest wish that they may live to enjoy many anniversaries of their marriage.

Deaths

DOOLITTLE:  In this town [Bainbridge, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 8, 1874, Mr. Miles Doolittle, aged 80 years.