Murder of Sarah M. Fitch, December 1874

Murder of Sarah M. Fitch

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, December 30, 1874

A most terrible affair happened in Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] on Sunday morning last, about 10 o'clock, which resulted in the death of an estimable lady, and has stricken a large circle of friends and relatives with profound grief.  From Dr. McFarland, who was called to attend the victim we learn the particulars.

The murder was committed at the residence of John P. Hall, who resides near Guilford Centre; the victim being Mrs. Fitch, his wife's aunt, who was spending the holidays with the family.  Sometime that morning Hall entered the house with an axe, which he placed by the kitchen stove to warm, as he said at the time.  About 10 o'clock, Mrs. Hall, his wife, arose and left the room, leaving Mrs. Fitch seated in a rocking chair by the stove reading.  Mr. Hall was seated on the opposite side of the stove a little to her left.  Soon after Mrs. H. and the inmates of the other rooms, (another family occupy part of the house), heard a noise as of a blow, and presently Hall came to them and said, "Aunt fitch has had a fit."

On entering the room Mrs. Fitch was found in her chair bleeding from a wound on her head.  Mrs. Hall asked if she was hurt, and she replied that she did not know, and on being asked who did it, meaning the wound, made the same reply. Dr. Clark of Guilford who happened to be in the neighborhood was quickly summoned and he sent for Dr. McFarland of this village.  The lady was passed human aid, and soon became unconscious, dying in her chair in about half an hour after the arrival of Dr. Clark and before the arrival of Dr. McFarland.

It is said that Hall, after informing the family that Mrs. Fitch had a fit, wiped the blood from the axe and went to splitting wood.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, December 31, 1874

On Sunday afternoon last, our community was shocked by the announcement that Mrs. Sarah M. Fitch, an aged and much esteemed widow lady of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] had been killed with an axe by her nephew, John P. Hall at the residence of his family in Guilford on Sunday morning.  The particulars of the sad affair are furnished us by a gentleman residing in the vicinity of the scene of the tragedy and are given below.

Deceased was the widow of Eleazer H. Fitch, formerly a prominent and wealthy businessman of Guilford, who resided upon the farm where the homicide of Sunday was committed and who also kept a country store near the homestead. After his death which occurred about twenty years since, his widow removed to this village where she has since resided, respected and esteemed by the entire community and beloved for her many Christian graces and benevolent deeds.  Her age was seventy-four years and she left no children.

Since the removal of Mrs. Fitch to Norwich, the farm has been occupied by Mrs. Hall, her niece and adopted daughter, with her family, to whom it was deeded.  On Thursday of last week, she went to Guilford for the purpose of spending the holidays at the old homestead.  Her sad and terrible death at the hands of her nephew casts a gloom over a large circle of friends and relatives.

Hall, who was well known in the community, was a passionate and improvident man, addicted to the free use of ardent spirits and quarrelsome in his family.  He had no control of the property and for a time resided away from his home. What induced him to commit the deed may never be known, as he denies all knowledge of the manner of Mrs. Fitch's death, and the general theory is that he was insane at the time he struck the fatal blow.  His family, consisting of his wife, four sons and three daughters, are of the highest respectability, and receive the heartfelt sympathy of all.

Having been placed under arrest soon after the deed was accomplished, Hall was brought to this village e on Monday and lodged in jail.  He still denies any knowledge of the affair and is apparently cool and self-possessed.

Hall is a man fifty-five to sixty years age form New York, where he had failed in business as a merchant.  He was a man of education and good address when sober, and at one time was considerably respected by our townsmen.  After coming to Guilford, he received considerable assistance from his uncle, the late Eleazer H. Fitch and his family, until his increasing intemperance rendered it necessary that restrictive measure should be employed.  Upon the death of Mr. Fitch, his wife deeded the farm now occupied by Hall's family, to Mrs. Hall and her children, and this and similar protective measures, it is supposed, produced an estrangement towards his family and Mrs. Fitch in particular, which by long harboring has resulted in this awful deed.

For some time, Hall has been in poor health and has been comparatively temperate, and at the time of the commission of this deed, was said to have been free from the influence of liquor.  Nothing unusual had occurred of late to awaken his animosity, or lead to the perpetration of such an act.

A Coroner's jury was immediately summoned by Coroner Spencer which rendered a verdict in accordance with evidence as substantially stated above, that Mrs. Sarah M. Fitch came to her death from a wound inflicted by an axe, at the hands of John P. Hall.

Hall was arrested upon the warrant of the Coroner, and taken into custody of officers who have today (Monday) lodged him in our County jail to await the further action of the Grand Jury.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, January 7, 1875

We last week gave the particulars of the sad death of Mrs. Sarah M. Fitch of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] at the hands of her nephew, John P. Hall, in Guilford on Sunday morning, the 27th ult.  The Jersey City Evening Journal give the following history of the persons connected with the melancholy affair.

"About the year 1822(?), Sarah Mead, a young lady of great personal and mental attractions, was married in the city of New York to E.H. Fitch, a young merchant, who settled in Guilford, Chenango County [NY], engaging in mercantile business.  the immediate family consisted of Mr. Fitch and wife, Mrs. Purdy, a sister of Mrs. Fitch and her daughter Sarah Purdy.  

Mr. and Mrs. Fitch, having no children, adopted in 1826 a youth of six years, whom they watchfully cared for during the years of youth to those of manhood.  For this child's welfare they cherished the kindliest feelings through life, the surviving widow regularly paying him a visit, the last in her seventy-fifth year hundreds of miles from home.

About the year 1848 Mr. Fitch died, leaving her a widow, wealthy and possessed of all the elements of a truly noble and Christian woman.  A few years before this Sarah Purdy was married in New York to a young man of culture and refinement, a merchant named John P. Hall.  He was not prosperous in business, failed and came to want.  Mrs. Fitch ever generous, invited them to her home.  This home consisted of nearly 200 acres of well cultivated land and a stately mansion, shaded by trees planted by the fair-haired youth mentioned above, whose head is now frosted by the touch of fifty-five winters.  She gave a deed on this property to Mrs.  Hall and purchased a home for herself nearby and left the home of her married life.

On Sunday last, December 27th, Mrs. Fitch was with her sister and niece and family on a holiday visit.  In the middle of the day the sister and daughter left the room.  Mr. Hall, while professing friendship and without warning, struck Mrs. Fitch on the back of the head with an axe.  She fell to the floor unconscious and died in an hour.  In a few minutes Hall went into the other room and told the sister that Mrs. Fitch had fainted.  He then coolly wiped the blood from the axe and commenced to split wood.  This murdered woman was his guardian angel, his lifelong support and friend.

Reference has been made to the adopted youth.  Thirty years ago, he settled in Hoboken.  He has filled many official positions, such as Superintendent of Public Schools for several terms, Chief Magistrate of the city, Health Commissioner, and various other offices, with fidelity and marked ability.  His early life was not free from obstacles and many temptations which would have diverted and disheartened many a young man.  To Mrs. Fitch he was chiefly indebted for his success i life.  This man is Dr. L.W. Elder, a highly respectable physician now living in Hoboken.

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Mrs. Sarah M. Fitch, the victim of the recent tragedy in Guilford, was born in Fairfield County, Conn. in the year 1800, and was the wife of Eleazer H. Fitch. Early in the years of their married life, they came to Guilford and settled at the Centre, near the scene of the terrible murder, committed on Sunday morning, Dec. 27th, 1874. For many years, Mr. Fitch was engaged in mercantile pursuits, amassing a large fortune.  He built the house in which Mrs. Fitch met her terrible fate, it is finely situated and surrounded by trees and in former days was the scene of much pleasure and unbounded hospitality. They were among the earliest members of the Episcopal Church in Guilford and were ever her staunch and liberal supporters. Soon after the death of Mr. Fitch, which occurred in 1852, Mrs. Fitch presented the farm and house to her niece, Mrs. Hall, and removed to Norwich, where she had resided up to the time of her death. She has always manifested a lively interest in Guilford and its Chruch, presenting it only a short time since with a costly Communion Service, and other valuable articles.  On the 24th Dec., she came from Norwich to spend the Christmas tide, among the old friends whom she loved. She was present at the Christmas Eve services and afterward participated in the Sunday School Festival; on Christmas day she attended Chruch and received her last Communion, in the little Church she loved. She was buried form the Chruch on Wednesday the 30th, the burial rites being said by Rev. H.V. Gardner and Rev. Mr. Loveridge of Norwich.  Thus, a Christian woman of wealth, benevolence and intelligence has passed swiftly to her reward, honored, lamented and esteemed, by a large circle of relatives and friends in whose minds the memory of her good life and noble deeds will ever remain.

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Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, November 25, 1875

HALL:  At the insane Asylum, in Auburn, Nov. 10th, Mr. John P. Hall of Guilford, aged 65 years.

A dispatch received in this village on Saturday, announced the death of John P. Hall of Guilford, which occurred in the insane department of the Auburn State Prison on the day previous.

The tragedy which took place in Guilford on the morning of the 27th of December last, is still fresh in the minds of most of our readers.  On that Sunday morning, Mrs. Sarah M. Fitch, of this village, who was visiting with the family of her niece, Mrs. John P. Hall, sat in the kitchen, reading when Hall struck her in the head with an axe making a fearful wound from which she soon after died.  Hall claimed not to know that he had committed the deed.  He was brought to this village and lodged in jail.

In April last, an examination as to the sanity of the prisoner was held before the Commissioners appointed by the court and a number of witnesses were sworn, who testified to his singular conduct during previous years, and at the time of the homicide.  Afte hearing the evidence, the Commissioners reported that in their opinion, Hall was insane.  Subsequently he was removed to the Asylum at Auburn by order of Judge Balcom to await his examination by the court.  A wreck, bodily and mentally, when he was taken to Auburn, he continued to fail, until Death released him from his imprisonment and removed his case to a higher tribunal.

The certificate of the Asylum physician states that he died from exhaustion consequent upon brain disease which confirms the decision of the Commissioners.  His remains were taken to the family residence in Guilford Centre where funeral services were held on Tuesday.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, June 1876 (continued)

 Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, June 24, 1876

Death

A shocking accident occurred at Trout Creek [Delaware Co. NY] on Monday the 12th inst., resulting in the instant death of a young son of Edwin Furman, a resident of that place, while riding upon a load of bark, with a man in the employ of Broughton.  The team ran away throwing the boy off under the wheels, crushing his head into a shapeless man.  

Wilkins Settlement [Chenango Co. NY]:  Once again are we reminded of the insecurity of life, of the frailty of man, and that we are ever journeying in the midst of death.  On Tuesday last, after an illness of several weeks, Benjamin Newton in the 58th year of his age, passed away, trusting we hope in Jesus and a life beyond the grave.  

News Item

A happier gathering is seldom witnessed than the one at the home of Reuben Pearsall of this town [Bainbridge, Chenango Co. NY], on Monday, June 12th, the occasion being the reunion of the family of Amos Pearsall, formerly of the town of Bainbridge.  All the living members of the family (direct) being present with the exception of one son, the family now consisting of six sons, one daughter and the aged mother.  Leaving home at an early age, and having been thrown entirely upon their own resources, they have breasted the storms and adversities of a selfish world for nearly half a century, are once more gathered together to receive a parting "God bless you my boy," from mother.  And as they surrounded the bountifully spread board, and each in turn rehearsed the varied experience through which they had passed during their long years of separation, their thoughts were carried back to the happy days of childhood, when clad in their frocks of tow, and seated upon the floor of the old log house, they together surrounded a pan of samp and milk and passed the old iron spoon from one to the other until nature's wants were fully satisfied, and then free from care and trouble waded the creek or chased the butterfly heartily engaging in those athletic sports which laid the foundation for their iron constitutions of which today they boast.  Of the members of the family present were Hon. Charles Pearsall, of Coventry, occupation farmer; Reuben Pearsall, of Coventry, farmer; Amos Pearsall, Jr., of McGregor, Iowa, wholesale carriage manufacturer and real estate broker; Alonzo Pearsall, McGregor, Iowa, wholesale dealer in saddlery hardware; Oscar Pearsall, traveling salesman, Binghamton, N.Y.; Mrs. Thomas Main, Boone, Iowa, absent; Andrew Pearsall, Memphis, Tenn., steam boiler manufacturer.  There were also present other relatives of the family to the fourth generation.  The average age of the six children present is 51 years 8 months.  Average height, 5 feet, 9 inches. Total weight, 1201 pounds. After visiting relatives and friends of the county and the great centennial for a few weeks they will return to their western home.

Smyrna Citizen, Smyrna, NY, June 24, 1876

Marriage

STOKES - NEARING:  At the residence of the bride in this village on the 22nd inst. by Rev. C.C. Johnson, Mr. C. Dever Stokes and Miss Ellen M. Nearing, all of Smyrna

Death

  We learn that Everett Bliss a young man of Georgetown [Madison Co. NY], was drowned on Sundya last.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, June 1876 (continued)

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 22, 1876

Marriages

COLE - MATTHEWS:  At the Congregational Parsonage in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on the morning of the 19th inst., by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. Oliver Cole of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] and Mrs. Mary Matthews of this village.

ALLEN - CHAPPELL:  At Emmanuel Church in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on the 15th inst., by the Rector Rev. D.E. Loveridge, Mr. DeWitt C. Allen of Washington, D.C. and Miss Nellie Chappell, daughter of Mrs. A. Chappell of this village.

On Thursday afternoon last Emmanuel Church in this village was filled to witness the marriage ceremony of Mr. DeWitt C. Allen of Washington D.C. and Miss Nellie Chappell of this village.  The ceremony was impressively performed by the Rector Rev. D.E. Loveridge.  Mr. W.H. Bishop in response to the usual question, gracefully gave the bride away in behalf of her widowed mother.  During the waiting, Howard York presided at the fine organ, enlivening the occasion with pleasing and well executed voluntaries.  At the close of the services at the church, very many who were present there, attended the reception in honor of the bride at the residence of her sister, Mrs. Post, on Division St., and for an hour joyously mingled congratulations and feasting pleasantly together.  The happy couple left on Monday evening for Milwaukee, thence for Washington.

Mr. Allen is well known here as a former Norwich boy, who has attained quite a prominence in the Patent office, and later as a patent solicitor at Washington.  Though his bride has resided here but a short time she has won the respect and esteem of all who have made her acquaintance, and all unite in wishing Mr. and Mrs. Allen long life and prosperity and a pleasant home in the Capitol city.

Deaths

RITCHER:  Mrs. Ritcher wife of Fred. Ritcher and daughter of Ira Reynolds died suddenly on the 15th inst.

SEYMOUR:  On Sabbath afternoon, we as a community paid a last tribute of respect to Mr. Samuel Seymour of this town [North Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], one of the oldest men in this section. When he was seven years of age he came with his father to Guilford Centre [Chenango Co. NY], the party cutting their way for over two hundred miles through the forest.  He settled on and cleaned up the Fitch farm there, and afterwards cleaned up the Milo Benedict farm in Plymouth.  He died at the advanced age of 93 years and some months.  He was always looked upon as an exemplary man, a good neighbor, father and husband.  He leaves a second wife who is well stricken in years and of unspotted Christianity.  He was the father of Alfred Seymour, Esq., now of Norwich. The remains were buried in the family ground in Plymouth.  The services were conducted by Rev. B.B. Carruth and were impressive in the highest degree.  He spoke from passages of scripture selected by the deceased some time since, viz:  John 14-2 and the fifth chapter of Corinthians.

A marked feature in the mortality of this vicinity is the death of so many of our aged inhabitants.  On Sunday last occurred the funeral of Mr. Samuel Seymour, aged 93.  He has lived in Chenango County since early youth, when his father came to this section.  They were obliged to cut their own road through the woods.  At the sale of his farm in German Hollow he reserved a spot for the family sepulture and in accordance with his wish he was buried there beside his first wife. [Sherburne News, June 24, 1876]

SNYDER:  Again, the shaft of death has come to our place and taken one of our worthy Christian men from us, Mr. Wm. Snyder, father of Mrs. John Gile.  He was a man with us of unspotted character.  If he had enemies, they were certainly not in our place.  His death was a great loss to his daughters and grandchildren.  Mr. Charles Gile was so overcome by his death that medical aid was called, and he is now quite sick. At the funeral under the direction of Prof. Ludington and L.E. Carpenter, Esq., he was driven to his last resting place, by Mr. Harry PerLee, who is now 83 years old, the horse being one once owned by John Gile, well known as old Charlie, now 24 years old.  At the grave the solemnity was very impressive.  The Choir was led by Mr. J.W. Sturges, who is always ready to lend a helping hand, singing that beautiful hymn "Going Home One by One."  All sympathize with the family, yet it is a comfort to know our loss is his gain.  His age was 77.  While sick he called your correspondent to read to him from the much-loved Book, the fifth chapter of second Corinthians.

Wm. Snyder, father of Mrs. John Gile, died at 11 A.M. yesterday.  Last fall Mr. Snyder had a very severe attack of the nature of cholera, which left his kidneys in a bad condition, and one week ago Sunday he was confined to his bed.  The weakness resulting from the former attack and his advanced age (77), rendered him peculiarly susceptible to death's approach, and though under the best of medical treatment and having during his entire sickness the careful nursing of Mr. Wm. Greene, death claimed him for his own. The funeral under the charge of M.B. Ludington took place today at 2 P.M. at the house of Mrs. John Gile.  Rev. Mr. White preached a very affecting sermon from the text:  "I have fought the good fight; I have finished the faith." the bearers were Almon Cook, L.E. Carpenter, N.S. Gordon, Isaac Titus, Isaac PerLee and O.D. Taylor, Jr.  The large attendance at the house service and the gathering at the grave betokens the esteem in which Mr. Snyder was held by this community.  A peculiar feature of the funeral was the drawing of the corpse to the grave, by a horse which has been in the family 24 years, the horse being driven by "Uncle Harry" Per Lee who is 83 years old.  Owing to over doing and extra anxiety and sorrow consequent to the sickness and death of his grandfather, Chas. Gile is seriously ill.  Dr. Lewis gives encouragement of his speedy recovery. [Sherburne News, June 24, 1876]

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 22, 1876

Marriage

At Whitney's Point [Broome Co. NY], June 12th, by Rev. C.D. Shepard, Mr. George H. Daniels of Whitney's point [Chenango Co. NY] to Mrs. Gillian M. Bradford of Susquehanna Depot, Pa.

Death

At Berkshire, Tioga Co. N.Y. on Saturday, June 10th, Mrs. Caroline Moore, aged 81 years, mother of N.F. Moore, Esq., of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, June 24, 1876

Marriage

TOWNSEND - PRATT:  At the Congregational Church in this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY] on the 21st inst. by Rev. James Chambers, assisted by Rev. Mr. Seeley of Richfield Springs, Rev. Frank W. Townsend of Brooklyn and Miss Mary T. Pratt, daughter of Tallcott Pratt of this place.

The wedding of Rev. Frank Townsend and Miss Mary Pratt in the Congregational church Wednesday evening was an event of unusual brilliancy. The church was decorated with a profusion of flowers, many of the bouquets of the rarest beauty.  The house was filled at an early hour with friends and guests and at the appointed hour the bridal party entered the church and proceeded up the aisles, amid the smiling admiration and approbation of the large assemblage, during which time Prof. Palmer rendered the "Wedding March" on the organ in its sweetest style.  An introductory prayer was offered by Rev. Mr. Seeley of Richfield Springs and the marriage ceremony performed by Rev. James Chambers. The happy couple immediately repaired to the residence of the bride's parents, where a reception was given to their many friends and the usual congratulations extended and received.  The bridal presents were numerous and spoken of as being very beautiful. Thursday morning the bridal party took their departure for Richfield Springs, then they go to Boston, Mass. and thence to Philadelphia.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, June 1876 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 22, 1876

Marriage

KOON - KIRKLAND:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], June 1st, by Rev. B.F. Williams, Mr. Smith H. Koon of Rome [Oneida Co. NY], to Miss Ella Kirkland, of New Berlin.

Deaths

PIER:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], June 14th, Mrs. Mary F. Pier, wife of Dr. W.H. Pier of Scranton, Pa., and only daughter of John Shattuck, Esq., aged 36 years and 7 months.

Among the good and true of the earth there are few who possess and exercise more of the spirit of a sweet and noble womanhood than did Mrs. Pier.  After about two years of married life, she returned to her childhood home to die.  Kindly appreciating all that a loving husband, affectionate parents and kind friends could do, she waited the change which was approaching.  With that calm sweetness which had characterized her entire life, she spoke words of comfort and love to those who mourned; chose a former pastor to conduct her funeral services, and firm in the faith of Universal Salvation through Christ, she rose to the home of her heavenly  hope, leaving the golden luster of an unsullied life as a heritage to all who knew her.  The unusually large attendance at her funeral from the residence of her parents; the floral offerings in abundant profusion, not only from this vicinity, but also from Syracuse and Scranton, all expressed most tender love for "Frank," and sympathy for her mourning kindred.  A service of consolation and faith, appropriate to the occasion, was conducted by Rev. D. Ballou, of Utica. The remains were deposited in the cemetery in this village.

CROZIER:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], June 19th, John D. [Crozier] son of Harvey H. and Eveline R. Crozier, aged 7 years and 9 months.

WARNER:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], June 17th, Mrs. Sarah Warner, widow of Hiram Warner, aged 61 years and 10 days.

DUTTON:  In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], June 11th, Mr. William Dutton, aged 57 years.

RICHER:  North Norwich, Chenango Co. NY: Mr. F. Richer's wife died on Thursday, the 15th, at about three o'clock A.M.  She lived on the Messenger Ridge; left her husband with four small Children.

OWEN:  Mrs. Hannah Owen, of Oneida Valley [Oneida Co. NY], died recently form injuries received in being thrown from a wagon.

ROCKWELL:  A memorial service for Mr. and Mrs. A.H. Rockwell, whose tragical death occurred on the Pacific Ocean last fall was conducted by Dr. Paddock at the North Fenton Methodist church [Broome Co. NY], on Sunday morning last.

PALMER:  On Friday afternoon the 9th inst., Martin Palmer, of Chenango Forks [Broome Co. NY], was found dead on the roof of the barn of his brother on Dimmick Hill, which he was building.  His death is supposed to have been caused by sun stroke.

DWYER:  A little girl named Dwyer was drowned while wading across the Tioughnioga river at Barker [Broome Co. NY], last week.  Her companion was rescued, but the body of the drowned girl had not been recovered at last accounts.

SNYDER: North Norwich, Chenango Co. NY:  Wm. Snyder father of Mrs. John Gile, died yesterday morning at 11 o'clock.  Last fall, he had an attack which but for prompt medical aid would have proven genuine cholera.  From this attack he seems never to have fully recuperated.  The consequent weakness, with his advanced age, 77, gave death an easy conquest.  Chas. Gile, grandson of Mr. Snyder, was shortly after his death taken with spasms, and now lies dangerously ill.  His sickness is undoubtedly the result of anxiety and extra labor during the sickness of his grandfather.

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ROBINSON:  Drowned, near Wood's Corners, in this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Thursday evening, June 15th, Andrew Robinson, of Delaware County [NY], in the 18th year of his age.

About nine o'clock on Thursday evening of last week, intelligence was received in this village that a young man, named Andrew Robinson, was drowned while bathing near the D.L.&W. Railroad bridge, which crosses the river south of Wood's Corners, about two miles north of this village.  A number of members of Alert Hose Company provided themselves with hooks and lanterns, and accompanied by several other citizens, proceeded to the scene of the disaster.  Upon their arrival there, it was found that the body had a few moments before been recovered.

Deceased was in the employ of Willard Sage, a farmer residing near Wood's Corners and went into the river in company with Edward Brown and Dennis Dunrovan, for the purpose of bathing after their day's work was completed.  He was unable to swim and while his companions were at a distance he slipped or was carried by the current into a place where the water was upwards of twelve feet in depth.  Brown, who saw his struggles for life, attempted to rescue Robinson, and came near losing his own life, having gone down the third time with the drowning man, whose grasp upon him was then released and he was rescued in an unconscious condition by others who were attracted to the spot.

The alarm being given, there was soon a large turnout of neighbors who searched for the body until about half past nine, when it was found below the bridge on the south side of the stream.  Charles and George Brooks, with their skill rendered valuable services and other neighbors present are entitled to much credit for their exertions to recover the body.

Mr. Sage caused the remains to be removed to his residence where Coroner Lyman of Sherburne held an inquest on Friday morning and the verdict of the jury was in accordance with the facts above stated.  In the afternoon the body was removed to Walton [Delaware Co. NY] near which place the mother of the deceased resides and was accompanied by his brother, who is in the employ of Stephen Hubbell of Wood's Corners.

Robinson was in his eighteenth year and had been in the employ of Mr. Sage for the past eleven months.  He is spoken of by all who knew him as a most exemplary young man, who had endeared himself to his associates who sincerely mourn his untimely death and whose sympathies are extended to his widowed mother and other relatives.  To Mr. Sage and family, all credit is due for their kindly offices attendant upon the last sad rites to the unfortunate young man, who was so suddenly removed from their household.

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SEYMOUR:  We buried yesterday, in Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], near North Norwich, the oldest inhabitant of the latter town.  His remains were interred upon the farm where he first settled, seventy-one or two years ago.  Perhaps he has lived in Chenango County longer than any man now living.  His father settled in the town of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], near the Centre, upon what is known as the Fitch farm.  This settlement was begun when Samuel Seymour was but seven years old.

So, for eighty-six years he has lived in our County; for he died on Friday last, June 16th, at the age of ninety-three years.  He has seen great changes in North Norwich and vicinity during his long and useful life.  He went into the forests of this region with strong hands and brave heart, possessing a strong constitution and iron will.  The forests receded before him, and today smiling fields and prosperous farmers are on every side, where was unbroken wilderness seventy-one or two years ago.  He retained his bodily and mental powers in a good degree till the very close of life, though for the past winter and spring confined mostly to the house.

A good man has fallen.  He died in the faith of the Gospel a living Christian man for some sixty years or more.  He said to me once, as I called upon him, "I have seen great changes in my day, many ups and downs; I have been young and now am old, yet have I never seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread."

So, the links that bind us to former generations are being severed one by one.  But while the fathers fall asleep, and we bear our loved ones to the Silent City, all is not dark and sad about us.  The beauty of spring and the glory of summer are upon us. Evil auguries and apprehensions of men do not thwart the grand dealings of God with us.

The fields stand dressed in their beautiful green, and everything at present foretokening an abundant harvest.  Just enough of rain and showers to put our weather prophets to the blush, for their prophesies of drought thus far have failed.  Pity people wouldn't move out of Grumbling Avenue over into Thanksgiving Street.

King Settlement, June 19, 1876, B.B.C.

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DUTTON:  Mr. William Dutton is no more.  His spirit departed from this life, on Sunday, the 11th inst.  About the first of March last Mr. Dutton was [was in a serious accident] and it was then feared fatally injured.  He was driving a yoke of oxen attached to a sled loaded with bark; while going down a hill, the load crowded heavily upon the oxen, and in attempting to slacken their speed he stepped in front of the team, but soon fell.  A runner of the sled struck and pressed him against a stone; fortunately, his calls to the team stopped it in time to save him from immediate death; yet, being so firmly held as to be unable to extricate himself from this impending danger.  But he being so far away from help, could do no more than to lay in this fearful condition, with no other means but words to keep his oxen from drawing the load upon him, and crush him to death.  In this situation he called in vain for help.  His friends becoming alarmed at his long absence, finally came to his assistance; since which time his case has been doubtful, though hopes have been entertained of his recovery.  But Alas!  the seal has been set, and its impress is death.

He was married about the year 1839, to Charlotte French; he purchased a small farm in the town of Otselic, where he has resided since, and where he had secured to himself and family a comfortable home with a competency as a reward for his labor.  He leaves a wife, a son, and a daughter.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, june 1876 (continued)

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 15, 1876

Marriages

In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], June 1st, by Rev. Lyman Wright, Mr. Bion L. Parker of Triangle [Broome Co. NY], to Miss Sarah Hibbard of Chenango Forks [Chenango Co. NY].

In Barker [Chenango Co. NY], June 4th, by Rev. Wm. Gates, Mr. Giles E. Phelps of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], to Miss Lora Pease of Barker [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

In Hall county, Nebraska, May 2d, Marion A. [Morse], formerly of North Fenton [Broome Co. NY], aged 30 years and 6 months.

___________________________

Passed to the Spirit Land, April 6th, 1876, Mrs. Julia Wylie, wife of Floyd Wylie, of Greene [Chenango Co. NY], aged 35 years.

Her maiden name was Babcock; her former residence was in Tioga Co. Pa.  Having friends in the vicinity of her late home, she came here some twelve years ago and about a year previous to her marriage lived in his father's family, in which position she won the respect of the parents and also the love of him who afterwards became her husband.  The circumstances attending her departure and for a short time previous, were somewhat different than those that attend all who are called from this life to that better land beyond.

About 4 years ago, a brother residing in Pennsylvania, was stricken down with typhoid fever and lived but a short time.

In the fall of 1875, her sister (Lucretia) having a cancer passed on to the spirit land.  In February last, she was called to her former home to attend her sister Dollie who was very sick with Typhoid fever.  While there, her mother contracted the same disease and lived but a short time.  Dollie lived, but a few hours after her mother's burial.  Aunt (Mrs. Geo. Miller of Fenton) attended the funeral of Mrs. Babcock and lived but a short time after her return home, her disease being the same.  Mrs. Wylie feeling that she was threatened with the fever, returned home in March.  She kept gradually failing until in answer to the divine command of the loving Father, which with the jeweled key of death, unfolded the door of the prison and permitted her to go out into the grander, brighter and holier sphere of life, better fitted for the culture and development of her individual powers.  During Mrs. Wyle's sickness, her sister Eliza was taken with the fever and soon passed on to meet those gone before.  Shortly after Mrs. Wylie joined the departed ones, her sister having contracted the same fever joined the circle there to wait till those who mourn their loss join them in their onward and upward course through the cycles of time.  No words of mine can justly speak her worth. The vast numbers who attended her funeral and the sorrow there expressed, speak in plainer words than pen can write.  A word she had for everyone, a lending hand in sickness, a Christian in principle, a loving companion, as such she will ever be held in memory by everyone who knew her.  She fully realized her situation during her sickness and her last words fully expressed her faith when she said, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit."

She requested one of her friends to sing "Hold the fort, for I am coming," at the close she requested her husband to raise her up, and passed away as an infant goes to sleep upon its mother's breast.  She leaves a husband who doubtless feels that of all the bereavements of this life, there is none sadder than the loss of a young and loving companion.  May He who holds the destinies of the world in His hand, comfort and sustain him in this trying bereavement; also, his aged father and mother who looked for Julia to help smooth their remaining steps to the grave.

News Item

Brief Honeymoon:  In January last, we published a notice of the marriage of a wealthy farmer residing in Broome County [NY], who had arrived at the mature age of seventy-eight years, to a young lady of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], upon whom but seventeen summers had smiled.  A cash wedding gift of $5,000 from the groom to the bride, was an interesting feature at the ceremony.  Now the bride of five months is advertised as having left the bed and board of her venerable companion, "without just provocation," and he forbids all persons from harboring or trusting her on his account, as he pays no debts of her contracting.  It is but the old story, too often repeated.  Union

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, June 28, 1876

Marriages

HALE - SHERWOOD:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], on 20th, by Rev. A.W> Snyder, Mr. Charles N. Hale of Chicago, Ill., to Miss Mary A. Sherwood of Greene. 

ALLEN - CHAPPELL:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], on 15th by Rev. D.E. Loveridge, Mr. DeWitt C. Allen of Washington, D.C. to Miss Nellie Chappell of Norwich.

The many friends of Andrew Dickinson and wife prepared a pleasant surprise for them on the 19th inst., in the shape of a glass wedding, it being the 15th anniversary of their marriage.  The house was filled to overflowing with a gay throng, bringing well filled baskets, whose contents vanished like dew before the morning sun, not so, however, the many choice and beautiful gifts left behind as mementoes.

Dr. R.M. Clark and wife were also taken by surprise on the 21st inst., being their fifth anniversary. The Dr. and wife have hosts of friends who poured in upon them "thick as leaves in Vallombrosa," bringing wooden ware, cake and congratulations.  Two elegant easy chairs were among the handsome presents bestowed.  These two gatherings stand first among the pleasant parties ever held in town and may the two couples thus surprised live long and prosper.

Deaths

CLARK:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], on 14th, A. Romaine Hadly [Clarke], twin son of Charles and J.M. Clarke, aged 2 years and 7 months.

The sweet bud, broken by the storm of the morning, will, we trust, bloom in an unfading realm. [Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 22, 1876]

MEAD:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], on 22d, Emmett C. [Mead] son of Wm. B. and Adelia Mead, aged 5 years.

NEWTON:  In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] on the 20th, Mr. Benjamin Newton, aged 68 years.

HYDE:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], on 18th, Mr. Ira Hyde aged 75 years.

WATERS:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] on the 16th, Mr. Elmer W. Waters, aged 74 years.

SEYMOUR:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] on 16th Mr. Samuel Seymour, aged 93 years.

SNYDER:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] on the 19th, Mr. Wm. Snyder, aged 77 years.

____________________________

JEWELL:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] on 24th, Mr. Gilbert Jewell, aged 81 years.

About four o'clock, in the afternoon of the 24th inst., at his home in Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], where he had passed an honored life, Gilbert Jewell quietly sank to his rest, in the 82d year of his age, after an illness of some twenty days, borne with great fortitude and placid resignation.  Of English descent on the father's side and Dutch upon the mother's he brought from New Jersey, his native State and scene of his youthful years, certain antique traits of character, which, by time and elevating intercourse with the world, attended with much reading and thought, were matured and ripened into graces and virtues of no cheap or ordinary kind; but marked - sincere and heartfelt in all his social intercourse - exact and honest in his business relations.  Sham and artifice and double dealing he put far away, always showing capacity of the gentleman, and in many ways truly such.

His slight eccentricities, casting little shades of singularity here and there, may be regarded as heightening and harmonizing the picture of his life; showing as they often do, a benevolent background, rich in much of that which makes the dramatist, the Poet and the Statesman, when brought out by culture.

The many and vigorous and healthful years and his great activity and many industries in good and useful ways show the man has not only had care to cherish the blessings of life, but has had respect unto the recompense and reward, "Well done good and faithful servant."  Nor has he come to the solemn Road, heaving only these worthy "footprints on the sands of time;" but mindful of the sublime law of dependance, reaching from God the Father to the lowest thing, this man nearly halved his fine fortune, leaving one part to be divided among his domestics and the boys and girls whom he has brought up, in shares of $1,200 down to $200; and the other part to his relatives as the law directs. Hence departing with bright hopes.     H.P.

Vital Records, Otsego Co. NY, October/November 1819

 

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, October 25, 1819

Marriages

At Milford [Otsego Co. NY], by the Rev. Mr. St. John, Mr. James Denniston of Bethlehem [Albany Co. NY], to Miss Mary Donnelly of Milford.

At Northampton (Mass.) Charles Sedgwick, Esquire of Stockbridge [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Elizabeth B. Dwight, daughter of Josiah Dwight, Esq.

At Rome [Oneida Co. NY], Major Charles Larabee of the Army, to Miss Elizabeth Hathaway daughter of Joshua Hathaway, Esq.

At the City of Washington, Mr. Isaac Clarke, aged 67, to Mrs. Ann Goddard aged 65.  This couple it is said were affianced to each other forty-five years ago.  The engagement, however, was broken off, and each party married differently.  In the course of time, the son of one married a daughter of the other.  It having pleased Providence to take from them their respective partners, the two lovers in youth, now friends in age, have joined their fortunes in matrimony.

Deaths

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], on Tuesday morning last, William Cooper, Esq., aged 37.

 On the 2d inst. at Soule's Hill in the Town of Guilderland [Albany Co. NY], Mr. George Rellman at the great age of 112 years, 6 months and 25 days.  He was born in Germany, in the City of Landau in Elsace, on the 8th of March 1707.  He had four children in Germany, three of whom died before his emigration.  He embarked for this country at Holland in a vessel bound for Philadelphia, with his wife and remaining child, who was a son, and is now living at the late residence of his deceased father, at an advanced age.  His wife died at sea, and with his child he arrived at Philadelphia A.D. 1740.  Mr. R. was the patriot and hero, as well as the moralist and the Christian.  He served two campaigns in Germany.  He was engaged int he famous battle of Prague, where he and a fellow soldier escaped by the hand of Divine Providence from a slaughter of 200,000 men by swimming their horses across the adjacent waters.  Albany Gazette

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, November 1, 1819

Marriage

On Thursday evening last, by the Rev. Mr. Smith, Mr. Charles Loomis of East Windsor, (Conn.) to Miss Elizabeth P. May of this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY].

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, November 15, 1876

Marriages

At Richfield [Otsego Co. NY] by the Rev. Mr. Huse, Schuyler Crippen, Esq., Attorney at Law to Miss Sabrina Cook, daughter of Philip Cook, Esq.

In Otsego [Otsego Co. NY], on Thursday evening last, by the Rev. John Smith, Mr. E.B. Crandal, editor of the Watch Tower to Miss Mary Todd, daughter of Mr. Jehial Todd.

In Otsego [Otsego Co. NY], on the 7th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Paddock, Mr. John Fish to Miss Sarah Wykoff

At Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY], on Thursday last, by the Rev. John Smith, Mr. Ezra Eaton, Jun. to Miss Sally Faulkner.

Deaths

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], on Thursday morning last, Mr. James Averell, sen., aged 85 years.

At his residence in Hancock Co. Georgia, His Excellency Gov. Rabun

At Northampton, Mass. on the 7th inst. the Hon. Caleb Strong, late Governor of Massachusetts.

At Bennington, Vt., Jonathan Robison, Esq. for many years Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of that State and for eight years a member of the U.S. Senate.

At Warwick, mass. Dr. Medad Pomeroy aged 83 years.

At Hadley, Mass. Mrs. Sybil Dickinson, relict of the late Mr. Josiah Dickinson.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, November 22, 1819

Death 

At Mobile [AL] on the 17th September last, Mrs. Mary Augusta Lewis, aged 31 years, wife of Capt. Russel W. Lewis of Mobile, and daughter of Mr. Joseph Munn of this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY].  The letter announcing this afflictive intelligence represents the fever as having raged to such a degree as to leave but a ray of hope of surviving an attack.  The town was nearly desolate, between 3 and 400 had died, and the greater part removed for safety.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, November 29, 1819

Marriages

Yesterday, in Zion Church, Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], by the Rev. Mr. Wheeler, Mr. Oliver Somers, Jun. to Miss Susannah Bristol.

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], on Monday last, by the Rev. John Smith, Mr. John Davison of Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] to Mrs. Matilda Spalding of Onondaga [Onondaga Co. NY].

At Portland (Me.) John F. Brace, Esq'r of Litchfield (Conn.) to Miss Lucy E. Porter

Deaths

In Stratford (Con.) ont he 14th inst. Hon William Samuel Johnson, L.L.D. in the 94th year of his age.  He was truly a great man, having sustained through life the veneration of his friends, and the respect of his country.

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY], on the evening of Wednesday last, after a lingering illness which reduced him to mere skin and bones, Capt. Edward Thurstin, aged 79 years.  He is said to have departed with a full belief of the truth of the Christian system, and in the hope of a blessed immortality.

In Brunswick, Mr. Rev. Jesse Appleton, D.D. President of Bowdoin College, in the 47th year of his age.

On the 10th inst. the Hon. Robert Jeskins, Mayor of the city of Hudson [Columbia Co. NY], was knocked overboard in a squall by the boom of the sloop John Hancock, in which he was a passenger; and though picked up immediately died the next day, probably from the injuries sustained form the blow.

At Lyme (Conn.) Mrs. Mary Noyes, aged 51.

In Utica [Oneida Co. NY], Mr. Henry Oudevard(?) aged 55.

At Norwich (Conn.), Mrs. Mary L. Huntington, aged 46, wife of Gen. Ebenezer Huntington.

At Elizabethtown, Gen. A... Gautier ae 102.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, June 1876 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 15, 1876

Marriages

BENWAY - REED:  At Three Mile Bay, Jefferson Co., N.Y. May 31st, by Rev. D.W. Aylesworth of Turin, Lewis Co., Mr. James K. Benway of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Addie H. Reed, of Three Mile Bay.

PARKER - HANLEY:  In Waterville [Oneida Co. NY], June 13th, by Rev. C.W. Brooks, Mr. Charles H. Parker of Otselic [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Maria L. Hanley, of Waterville.

Deaths 

PIER:  At the residence of her father, John Shattuck, Esq., in this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Wednesday morning, June 14th, of consumption, Mrs. Mary F. Pier, wife of Dr. William H. Pier, of Scranton, Pa. aged 36 years.  Funeral services will be held at the residence of her father on Saturday, June 17th, at 2 o'clock P.M.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 15, 1876

Death

DUTTON:  In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], June 11, Wm. Dutton.

Mr. Wm. Dutton died on Sunday the 11th inst.  A large farmer carrying on nearly 600 acres and a very active man, his case has excited a widespread interest since the dreadful accident last winter which finally resulted in his death. The funeral was held on Tuesday at 12 o'clock, at the Baptist church, Otselic Centre.

Mr. Wm. Dutton met with a terrible accident on Tuesday, March 1, which came near costing him his life. While going down a steep hill with a load of bark, he being ahead of the oxen, he slipped and fell, the team passing over him and carrying him to the bottom of the hill, where they stopped with the forward part of the sleigh upon his body.  He lay in this fearful position about an hour and nearly froze to death before he was found by one of the men in his employ.  When taken home, Dr. Purdy was sent for, and his right shoulder was found to be badly crushed and out of joint.  It took a long time to restore animation, and the pain was so intense that chloroform had to be administered before the joint could be set.  Mr. Dutton is one of our most energetic farmers and was preparing to build a large barn the coming summer.  This unfortunate accident will prove a serious hindrance.  [Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, Mar. 9, 1876]

HULBURT:  A correspondent writing from Laurens, Otsego County [NY], gives the particulars of a sudden and singular death which occurred at Butts' Corners, three miles west of that village, on Friday night.  It appears that about three o'clock on the morning in question, a Mr. Hulburt was awakened by the heavy breathing of his wife, but his most strenuous efforts failed to arouse her.  Drs. Strong, of Laurens, and Pomeroy, of West Oneonta, were hastily summoned, but their united efforts failed to bring the woman to consciousness and after lingering in a state of insensibility until seven o'clock, she breathed her last.  Death is believed to have resulted from an overdose of morphine taken to induce sleep. The deceased was a daughter of Harvey Butts, an old and highly esteemed resident of Otsego County.

 STEWART:  Funeral services of Mrs. Marvin Stewart were held at the Baptist church on Tuesday of this week.

DELONG:  A few days ago, a child, four months old, fell from its mother's arms, its head striking a plank, fracturing the skull and causing death.  The mother's name was Clarissa DeLong and their residence, Mill Brook [Dutchess Co. NY].

Nelson T. Brown, a pioneer and prominent citizen of Leonardsville [Madison Co. NY], died last week aged sixty-eight years.  He had been Justice of the Peace 24 years and was President of the Leonardsville Bank at one time.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, June 21, 1876

Marriages

PHELPS - McNEIL:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], at the residence of the bride's parents, on the 15th inst., by Rev. H.P. Collin, Mr. Edward F. Phelps of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] to Miss Achsa McNeil.

The nuptial ceremonies of Mr. Edward F. Phelps of Binghamton and Miss Achsa McNeil were celebrated at the residence of Charles A. McNeil on Thursday at 6 o'clock P.M.  Rev.  H.P. Collin officiated and there were a large number of the friends of the happy couple present, many of whom were from abroad.  Refreshments were served at the conclusion of the ceremony and the bride and groom were remembered with many beautiful and valuable presents.  The Citizens' Band tendered a serenade and escorted the bridal party to the depot where they took the 7:55 train for a tour to other parts of the State amid the hearty congratulations of a large circle of friends.

GILLMAN - RAY:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], on the 15th, by Rev. D.E. Loveridge, Mr. Charles A. Gillman of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Maggie Ray of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

WINCHELL - GARDNER:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] on 10th, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Edwin D. Winchell to Miss Mary E. Gardner.

KELSEY - DAVIDSON:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], on 14th, by Rev. Mr. Snyder, Mr. Wm. T. Kelsey of Binghamton [Broome co. NY] to Miss Belle Davidson of Greene.

Deaths

HOPKINS:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], on 9th, of scarlet fever, George F. [Hopkins] son of James A. and Marie Hopkins, aged 2 years, 8 months and 13 days.

FRISBIE:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], on 8th, Dr. Levi frisbie, aged 93 years.

GRAVES:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], on 18th, an infant son of Charles and Laura Graves, aged 6 mos.

ROBINSON:  Andrew Robinson a resident of Walton [Delaware Co. NY] and in the employ of Willard W. Sage of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], was drowned Thursday evening, while bathing in the river north of the village.  He could not swim and got into a deep hole. Edwin D. Brown attempted to rescue him and was dragged under by the drowning man.  Both were rescued by others; Robinson was dead and Brown insensible for a long time. Robinson was 17 years of age.

BRABAZON:  Mr. Charles Brabazon, whose decease has been noticed, removed from Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] to this town [Guilford, Chenango Co. NY] in '64 or '65, and has resided here since that time.  He has survived his wife but a few months and not a year has elapsed since they celebrated their golden wedding.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY June 1876 (continued)

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, June 14, 1876

Marriage

NOWLAN - LETT:  At St. Patrick's Church, in Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], on the 6th inst. by Rev. J. Harrigan, Mr. Thomas F. Nowlan of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], to Miss Maggie J. Lett of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

SEELEY:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], on the 9th, Mr. Hector Seeley, aged 80 years.

BRABAZON:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], on 9th, Mr. Charles Brabazon.

HOTCHKISS:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], on 4th, Mr. William A.  Hotchkiss, aged 48 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 8, 1876

Marriages

At the Baptist Parsonage in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], May 24th, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Dwight W. Love of Triangle [Broome Co. NY], to Miss Julia E. Dillenbeck of Upper Lisle [Broome Co. NY].

In Sandford [Broome Co. NY], May 22d, by L.S. Russell, Esq., Orrin W. Terry to Hattie K. Saunders both of Colesville [Broome Co. NY].

At Whitney's Point [Chenango Co. NY], May 31st, by Rev. W. Gates, David W. Miller of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] and Mary I. Randall of the former place.

At the residence of the bride's father in Barker [Broome co. NY] May 31st, by Rev. C.E. Taylor, Mr. Henry W. Beals to Miss Ellen L. Ford both of Barker.

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], June 4th, Mr. William A. Hotchkiss aged 43 years.

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], June 1st, Charles M. [Cooper] infant of Charles M. and Lucetta Cooper, aged 7 months and 18 days.

At Newark Valley [Tioga Co. NY], May 27th, Mr. Daniel Rogers, formerly of Whitney's Point [Broome Co. NY] in the 57th year of his age.

In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], May 29th, Mr. Daniel Bond, aged 53 years, 4 months and 27 days.

News Item

Last Thursday, Cook St. John of Walton, Delaware County [NY] celebrated his one hundred and third birthday.  The Union says:  The old gentleman is hale and hearty and is surrounded by one hundred and forty of his descendants who reside within a stone's throw of his dwelling.  He moved from Connecticut to Walton [Delaware Co. NY]  when he was thirty years old, and cleared the farm upon which he made his home.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, June 10, 1876

Deaths

CANNON:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], May 31st, 1876, Mrs. Sally Cannon, aged 72 years.

Mr. J.W. Foster, a cartman at Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], was run into by a runaway team of Joseph Arnold, a farmer, living near the town of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] on Tuesday last, the horses completely mounting the wagon, overturning it, breaking shafts and front, crushing the skull of Foster with hoofs just over the eyes and throwing him to the curb, on which his head struck with such force as to cause a contusion of the brain.  He survived but a few hours.  His face and head presented a horrible spectacle, the eye being forced far out on the cheek and blood flowed from ears and wounds.  Foster is 26 years of age and leaves a wife and two children.

The Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] Journal says:  "We are called upon to record a painful accident which occurred at Beech's Hotel, in Cooperstown on Saturday May 27th, which resulted in the death of Anna L. Beach aged 3 years and 10 months, after suffering for about six hours from the effects of being scalded.  A large pail of hot water had been prepared for doing some mopping and stood on the kitchen floor, the person who was to use it having gone for a mop, leaving the little one and two or three adults in the room.  It is supposed the child was stepping backward and coming in contact with the pail, lost its balance and fell into the hot water, from which it was taken out in an instant more, its clothing removed, and the burned parts properly treated.  The flesh from the shoulders to the feet was literally cooked."

Smyrna Citizen, Smyrna, NY, June 10, 1876

Death

WILCOX:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], June 5th, of pneumonia, Mattie D. [Wilcox], only daughter of Deforest A. and Theresa Wilcox, aged 13 years.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, June 1876 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 8, 1876

Marriages

SWAN - DYE:  On Wednesday, May 17th, at the residence of the bride's parents, by Rev. W.D. Fox, Mr. Julius A. Swan, of Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Yelette Dye, only daughter of Amos Dye, of Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY].

CONNELLY - WILLARD:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] May 25th, by Rev. A.W. Snyder, Mr. George W. Connelly of Edenburg, Pa. to Miss Anna H. Willard of Greene.

Death

PRATT:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], June 4th, at the residence of her brother, N.B. Hale, Mrs. Diana Pratt, aged 73 years.

GARTSEE:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], June 4th, of typhoid pneumonia and brain fever, Freddie [Gartsee], son of James and Martha Gartsee, aged 6 years and 5 months.

WOODING: At the County House, in Preston [Chenango Co. NY], June 5th, Mary Wooding, aged 38 years.

PRENTICE:  In Little Falls [Herkimer Co. NY], May 30th, Genevieve Whittemore wife of Rev. A.M. Prentice, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], aged 27 years.

YOUNG:  Frank H. Young, of Bridgehampton, Suffolk Co. [NY], a Cornell University student, was drowned while bathing in Six Mile Creek, near Ithaca, on Monday evening of last week.  His body was recovered after being in the water for two hours.  He was a young man of great promise and was President of the Christian Association of the university.

WAIT:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], June 3d, Mrs. Mary A. Wait, widow of the late Dr. William C. Wait, aged 74 years, 4 months and 21 days.

At six o-clock on Monday afternoon last, there were followed to the cemetery the remains of one whose name has been a household word in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], since men and women now growing gray were children.  Mrs. Mary A. Wait, widow of the late Dr. William C. Wait, breathed her last at her residence on Saturday after years of patient suffering as an invalid, although the more immediate cause of her death was a paralytic shock a short time previous.  Mrs. Wait had been a resident of this village for about fifty years, and her many unostentatious acts of kindness as a neighbor, her tender ministrations in the sick room, and her quiet but sincere charity in relieving the wants of those in poverty and distress, have endeared her to all classes in this community in whose hearts her memory will be kept ever green.  She died in the seventy-fifth year of her age, and leaves surviving her a daughter, Mrs. George Rider, and a son, Charles C. Wait, both residents of this village.

______________________________

Letters received in Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] on Monday, announce the death of George Dwyer, of the firm of Smith & Dwyer, of that city, who, in company with his father-in-law, Clark B. Smith, sailed from New York, May 13th, for a visit to Ireland, the place of his nativity, which he left twenty-five years ago.  He was prostrated by a severe cold on the second day of the voyage, which was combined with sea sickness and died on the 19th ult.  It was the opinion of the physician on board that his death was occasioned by heart disease, caused by the sea sickness and cold.  the shop reached the harbor on the 23d ult., and the remains were interred at Queenstown, Ireland, from which point his friends will undoubtedly bring them back to this country.

Deceased will be remembered by many of our citizens, he having formerly visited this place frequently, while his father-in-law resided here.  He has enjoyed the reputation of an upright businessman and was universally esteemed.  His bereaved wife and afflicted relatives have the sympathies of a large circle of friends.

________________________

Jabez N. Breed died at his residence in McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] on the 16th of May, at the age of 55 years.  His disease was putrid erysipelas, originating from a slight scratch upon his left hand, which was so rapid in its progress as to result in his death in four days.  Physicians inform us that so malignant was its action, that no medical aid could probably have been employed, even at the earliest period, to his benefit.

Mr. Breed was highly esteemed by everyone.  He was a noted farmer and carried on a creamery connected with his premises in the valley where he lived.  HIs attentive zeal in the duties of home and society comforts endeared him not only to his own domestic circle, but to all his social surroundings.  He was a man of industry. while a world of usefulness lay before him.  Indolence was his enemy.  Called away mid the active season of seed time, fields that he had just prepared today for grain, on the morrow were left to be sowed by other hands.  He laid down the implements of industry only for today but did not take them up on the morrow.  Plans that he had devised for his own industry were destined to be executed by other persons.  He retired to his dwelling only for a few hours, until the pain of a seemingly trifling malady should subside, but never returned to resume his labor.

Mr. Breed was a practical man, whose superior tact and judgment elevated him to those very qualities which his vocation required.  Scrupulously honest and forbearing in all his dealings, there was a precision and exactness actuated by the golden rule.  Few were possessed with a kinder heart or more generous nature; we have seldom known one who could more humanly sympathize with a friend.  He was an ardent lover of peace and during all his business transactions has never expended a shilling at law.  As a lover of rural pleasure, the changing scenery of farm life had attraction to bear him company and cheer his daily labors.  Although our friend is gone, these scenes will continue.  The varied years will roll around, the winter frosts retire and vernal spring return and the spring where he was wont to quench his thirst on a sultry day, will ripple on its pebbled way as merrily as before.

Murmur not, friends, that a loved one should be taken away, just at the happy season of springtime for Paradise is better still with more enduring joys and scenes celestial adopted.  There are flowers unfading; cherubs whose song is accompanied by the fairy touch of golden harps, crystal fountains flowing from the water of life, where the infirmities of age come not, but all shall wear the bloom of an immortal youth and await with enraptured anticipation a future time to walk the golden streets in full fruition of a glorified state.

For many years our brother was a faithful and devoted member of the Baptist church in McDonough, in the prosperity of which he was deeply interested, and aided liberally in its support, being its most able member.  The Redeemer's kingdom was the cause nearest his heart and though active in business he was fervent in spirit, serving God.  Always a prompt attendant at the devotional exercises and festivities of the church, we shall miss his aid and counsel at all its gatherings.  He bore his illness with peaceful composure, and seemed to be conscious and willing to depart and be with Christ which is better, and lisping the words, "All is right," quietly passed to his reward.

Mr. Breed leaves a wife, and only son and heir, who, having attained his majority, is well qualified to manage the material affairs and we trust to follow his parent's useful example. The funeral was numerously attended, and the kindred friends of the deceased would hereby extend a word of thanks to his pastor and other friends, for their kindly offices shown on that occasion.    A.D.

News Item

Holmesville, Chenango Co. NY:  Decoration Day was not observed here.  Many of our citizens seem to forget the heroic and fallen braves who so manfully sacrificed all, home, friends, and life, even all that was held dear on earth, went forth at the call of arms to fight and protect those who were so fortunate as to stay at home; and now the war is over, have not manhood or zeal enough to decorate the soldier's lonely grave.  O. for shame!  There are two buried in our cemetery, George Agard, of the 114th N.Y. Vol.s who was killed by the cars at Elmira [Chemung Co. NY], while returning home, after being discharged from the services in July 1865; and Delevan Burlingame, 114th N.Y. Vols. died in 1866, with a disease contracted by hardship and starvation, while a prisoner at Andersonville.