Historic Sketch, Settlement of New Berlin, Chenango Co., NY

 Historic Sketch of the Settlement of the Town of New Berlin

by John Hyde

New Berlin Gazette, New Berlin, NY, December 16, 1876

The Arnolds and Medburys came up from Rhode Island and founded settlements for their families in the midst of woods before civilization had made much advance on the west side of the river.  Nathaniel Medbury was the chief and principal leader.  He was reputed to be a man of superior abilities among the class of first settlers and took an active part in the public affairs of the infant settlement.  He purchased the wild lot next adjoining, south of the Thomas Brown farm on the Great Brook, and with the help of his son, Hezekiah [Medbury], a stalwart grown up young man soon transformed the wild woods into well cultivated fields, and made for himself and family a pleasant home on that beautiful trout stream where, in after years, the trout fishing disciples of Isaac Walton on fine spring days found rural amusement to be enjoyed, equal, if not superior to any described by old Isaac himself.

The popularity of Mr. Nathaniel Medbury procured his nomination as a candidate to the office of a member of the State Legislature in the Democratic convention and the ascendency of that party over the Federal or opposite party at that time secured his election. But before he had an opportunity to put in practice his qualifications as a legislator, his public career was suddenly ended.  An epidemic virulent and beyond the control of physicians entered the Hall of the Legislature and Nathaniel Medbury ceased to exist.  His remains were brought home and interred in the cemetery on James Brown's farm.  And the hopes, the honors and the expectations of the young legislator were extinguished forever, and the family and friends left to mourn his untimely fate.  His son, Hezekiah remained on the farm many years after his father's death and occupied the position of a good and influential citizen, taking an active part in public affairs but never held any office in the town.  Finally, he sold the old homestead farm and moved down to the town of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], where he died a few years ago.

Benjamin Medbury, a relative of Hon. Nathaniel Medbury, and co-emigrant with him, settled on next lot south of Nathaniel Medbury's lot.  He became a thrifty, industrious farmer, made large improvements on his farm and also engaged in buying cattle for the Philadelphia and other markets, whereby the inhabitants obtained money to make payments for their lands.  He became generally known as an enterprising cattle drover, if not to his own profit, the inhabitants who had cattle to dispose of realized the advantage of selling their cattle for money, which otherwise they could not have obtained.  He died some years ago, leaving a wife and several children.  The old farm is now [in 1876] owned by Mr. Lysander Parker, who has a large dairy, which he makes the chief business of the farm.

Joseph Medbury, a brother of Benjamin, settled on a lot a short distance north from the James Brown premises, where he remained until his death.  He was a good farmer and held the office of a justice of the peace several years.  He was respected as a kind and obliging neighbor.  He left a large family of children, none of whom are now living. [Note:  See posting of Oct. 19, 2023, for additional information.]

Stephen Medbury another brother, settled on a lot on the hill west of the village.  He was a good enterprising farmer and turned his wild lot into an excellent farm by his industry and the help of his sons.  He also carried on the trade of a cooper with his farming business.  He was esteemed as a man of probity and good judgment and was several terms one of the town assessors and gave general satisfaction for his correct and impartial assessments.  At his decease he left his valuable farm to his children.

Jabez Arnold settled on a lot west of the village which he made into a valuable farm.  He sustained the character of an industrious, prudent, and economical farmer.  He had a large family of sons and daughters who occupied distinguished places among New Berlin's inhabitants.  His farm is now [in 1876] occupied by his children's children.  

The Medburys, Browns and Arnolds were intimately connected by intermarriage and were a numerous class amongst the settlers of New Berlin.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, January 1877 (continued)

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, January 11, 1877

Marriages

WAIT - HINMAN:  On New Year's Day, at the bride's home, by Rev. M.S. Hall, Mr. Ambrose M. Wait, of Norwich, N.Y. [Chenango Co] to Miss Julia A. Hinman, of Hallock, Ill.

The happy pair took their departure on the evening train for their future home in Norwich., N.Y.  Miss Hinman will be missed by a large circle of admiring friends, whose prayers and best wishes go with her to her new home.  Our young men have captured many eastern ladies to charm our western circles of society and it is but fair that eastern young men should now and then make reprisals.  But well, it is our turn now.  M.S.H.

DONAHUE - CONLEY:  In Hamilton [Madison Co., NY], Jan. 6th, by Rev. Father Ludden, Mr. Jefferson Donahue to Miss Mary Ann Conley, all of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].

ACKLEY - CASE:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 1st, by Rev. E.C. Brown, Mr. C.H. Ackley of South Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Emma Case of North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

WELLS - HILL:  In South Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 26th, by S.M. Robinson, Esq., Mr. Dan R. Wells, Jr., of South Oxford, to Miss Susan Hill of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY].

MANWARREN - HACKETT:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 27th, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Samuel F. Manwarren of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Delia Hackett of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

WHEELER - BLAIR:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 28th, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Charles A. Wheeler to Miss Jennie E. Blair, all of Greene.

BOWDISH - ACKLEY:  in Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 25th, by Rev. W.H. Gavitt, Mr. Horace E. Bowdish of Nelson, Pa., to Miss Mary E. Ackley of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY].

ELLERSON - ELDREDGE:  In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], Dec. 21st, by Rev. Dr. Paddock, Mr. D.C. Ellerson to Miss Eveline S. Edlredge both of Chenango Forks [Broome Co. NY].

EDDY - COBB:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 26th, by Rev. J.H. Palmer, Mr. James L. Eddy of Wampsville [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Florence A. Cobb of Sherburne.

VUNK - HARRINGTON:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY], Dec. 26th, by Rev. D. Reese, Mr. Jerome Vunk of Marathon [Cortland Co. NY] to Miss Martha Harrington of Cincinnatus.

Deaths

BAILEY:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 26th, Libbie A. [Bailey] daughter of Julius L. and Mary L. Bailey, aged 17 years, 2 months and 4 days.

Fading, fading day by day, / At last our Libbie passed away; / As gently comes the shades of even, / Her soul took its flight to heaven.

'Mid the cold world's ceaseless strife, / Disease marked thee in early life; / Thy pain and watching now is o'er, / Thy soul has gone to the other shore.

Though sad and lone our hearts may be / Our thoughts shall ever turn to thee, / To those pure realms of bliss and joy, / where we shall meet without alloy.

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J. Cleveland Putnam a promising young gentleman of Cortland [Cortland Co. NY], died on the 28th ult.

L.D. Burch, lately deceased at the age of seventy-eight years, has been a resident of this place [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY] for the last thirty years.  he came here from Eaton [Madison Co. NY], where he was in the foundry business with others, casting and patenting some plows, and the farmers' "Burch Stove."  Doing a large business, he soon became famous and wealthy.  He visited the world's Fair at London and presented the Queen with one of his patent stoves, her Majesty afterwards eating victuals cooked upon it.  He was granted an audience with the Queen, when, refusing to take off his hat, and observe other court ceremonies, he was locked up, though afterwards liberated by command of the Queen.  His son, "Lew" Burch, is appointed as executor.  His funeral sermon was preached at the Universalist church by Rev. Dr. Ballou of Utica, and his remains carried to Waterville for interment.  Though rough in deportment, he will be missed by the people of Sherburne.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, January 1877 (continued)

 New Berlin Gazette New Berlin, NY, January 6, 1877

Deaths

Deacon Z.S. Hall has been carried to his last resting place since our issue of last week.  Mr. Hall had been a resident of this village [New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY], for a number of years and was much respected as a citizen.  He leaves a wife and family to mourn their loss.

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Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 30th, Eunice Russel, aged 71 years.

"Aunt Eunice" has left us at last.  We shall not see her again walking up and down our streets, or welcome her again into our homes.  The death angel came just as the old year was leaving us with its slow departing footfall.  She passed the "Happy New Year" day in the sweet land of sunshine and song.  We that were left upon the "oathwild" were not all happy, but the friendless beggar who has walked our streets for so many years was supremely happy.  friendless did I say?  No, we were all friends to "Aunt Eunice," and there were many tears shed as we bore her away to the grave.

She might have been called ignorant and uncultured here, but somehow, I think that "Aunt Enice" now known a thousand times more than any of us, and that she now has a form of grace and beauty.

Happy "Aunt Eunice?"  She does not now feel the storms and cold of our wild winter.  It was nothing but the old, unlovely casket that we laid away in the grave, while the beautiful spirit passed silently up to the great "home of many mansions."

Will "Aunt Eunice" forget those who were so kind to her, while she wandered among us as a sojourner?  In the brightness and glory of the spirit life, will she remember the storms and sunlight that clustered around her pathway here?  We know not the great mysteries of eternity, we only cling more closely to our loving Father, believing that we shall meet "Aung Eunice" in the great company of the redeemed.  M.A.H.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, January 6, 1877

Marriages

BISBE - AUSTIN:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], Dec. 28, 1876, by Rev. G.R. Burnside, Mr. Cyrenus A. Bisbe of Lebanon, N.Y. [Madison Co.] to Miss Alice S. Austin of Earlville, N.Y.

BEERS - REYNOLDS:  At the residence of the bride's father, in Deansville [Oneida Co. NY], Dec. 29, 1876, by the Rev. Mr. Wolson, Mr. Norman S. Beers and Miss Addie Reynolds, all of Deansville.

A very brilliant and enjoyable affair took place Dec. 27 at the house of Mr. Henry Reynolds of Deansville at the marriage of their daughter, Addie, to Mr. Norman S. Beers of the same place at which a hundred or more guests assembled.  The bridegroom was formerly a resident of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].  After the ceremony and congratulations were over the Deansville Band of which the groom was a member, discoursed some of their choicest music, after which viands both rich and rare were served in great profusion.  Among the many presents we noticed a very nice night-day clock from the band as a token of their regards to the happy pair.  The evening being spent very pleasantly we took our departure, hoping the future might be as pleasant to them as the present seemed to be.

Deaths

BURCH:  In this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 1st inst., Lyman D. Burch, aged 78 years and 5 months.

Mr. Lyman D. Burch died at his residence in this village on Monday, January 1st, 1877.  Mr. Burch was a man of prominence and well known to most of the businessmen in this and adjoining counties. He came to this village nearly thirty years ago and engaged extensively in the foundry business which he conducted for many years with distinguished success.   He invented, we believe, a number of stoves and ploughs which he patented and devoted some time to placing them upon the market.  During the time he visited the World's Fair in London, and it was his boast that Queen Victoria had eaten food cooked upon his stove.  In dealings with his fellow man, he was scrupulously correct and prompt and those who knew him best, pronounced him equally honest and conscientious.  His roughness of manner, or exterior, not unfrequently prejudiced men against him, but we have heard many kind words spoken of his generous heart and uniform kindness to the sick and those in trouble.  In religious faith he was a Universalist, and several years ago he made the acquaintance of Rev. Mr. Ballou of Utica, and his attachment led him to exact a promise that he would attend and preach his funeral sermon.  He selected the text:  "Because I live ye shall live also."  The funeral took place at the Universalist church on Thursday and Mr. Ballou was present to fulfill his promise.  He spoke of the eccentricities and peculiarities of deceased and asked all to throw over them the charity of Christian love, and then proceeded to deliver a most powerful argumentative and eloquent discourse from the test illustrative of Universal faith, the wisdom and goodness of God and His purpose to save whatever He creates.  At the close of the services the remains of deceased were carried to Waterville [Oneida Co. NY] for interment.

WILBER:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 30, 1876, Clarissa [Wilber], wife of the late Thompson Wilber, aged 82 years.

Clarissa, wife of the late Thompson Wilbur, expired at the residence of her son, C.C. Wilbur, last Saturday at the advance age of 82 years.  she has been a resident of the town for many years.

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KNOWLES:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 1st, 1877, Henry Knowles, Esq. aged 92 years.

Uncle Harry Knowles, our oldest citizen, and for many years the leader of the Quaker Society in this town, died on new year's morning at the ripe age of 92 years.  He was a noble-hearted, kind, Christian man, and won the esteem of all who knew him.  His death will deprive the town of an honorable citizen who for the past sixty years has done much for its welfare.  He was the first temperance voter our town contained, and also did much to advance the cause of Anti-Slavery.  By his death the Friend Society will miss an experienced leader who, when health permitted, was always found at his post.

Mr. Henry Knowles died at his residence in Smyrna, January 1st, 1877.  He had resided in the town about 60 years, emigrating there from Rhode Island in his early manhood.  He would have been 92 years old had he lived until the 27th inst.  Mr. K. was a man of marked ability, of exemplary character, and always held in the highest esteem by the citizens of the town and all others who made his acquaintance.  He was a farmer by occupation, but served as a minister in the Society of Friends of which he was a member.  He retained his faculties in a remarkable degree until the last and was regular in his attendance at services until within about three months of his death when his health failed him.  He was confined to his bed only three or four days prior to his decease.  He looked forward with much interest to the coming new year, yet passed away like the decay of years, sinking gradually and quietly to his rest like the setting sun of a long summer day.

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Mr. Alfred F. Babcock, whose death we announced last week, died on the 25th of December 1876.  He had been a resident of this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY] for twelve years and was much respected for his worth as a man and integrity as a citizen.  For the last two or three years he has suffered severely from ill health, and during the last year his sufferings have been of the most intense description, but borne them with Christian fortitude and unwavering faith in a final redemption.  For thirty-five years he has been an earnest and consistent member of the Baptist church, and when in health a cheerful participant in its dispensations.  His brethren who witnessed the manner of his death feel to rejoice that he died in the triumphs of a living faith.  He leaves a widow to mourn his loss. To her he expressed his desire to depart and be with Christ.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, January 6, 1877

Marriage

At the residence of the bride, Jan. 3d 1877, by Rev. D.N. Grummon, Mr. Miner Mathewson of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Minerva E. Crandall of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY].

Death

Mrs. George E. Palmer the unfortunate victim of the Ashtabula disaster, was once a resident of Afton [Chenango Co. NY], living with her parents on what is still known as the "Van Valkenburg farm," just outside of that village.  The lady had many acquaintances there, who remember her as being possessed of more than ordinary accomplishments.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, January 4, 1877

Marriages

At the residence of the bride in Morris [Otsego Co. NY] Dec. 21st by rev. S.M. Cook, Caleb Potter of Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] and Mrs. Angeline Yates of Morris, N.Y.

At the residence of the bride's father, Chester Taylor, Esq., Dec. 21st, by Rev. James Ryder, George A. Bailey to Miss Lillie M. Taylor, all of Fly Creek, Otsego Co. N.Y. [Otsego Co.]

At the residence of the bride's father, Dec. 19th, by Rev. James Ryder, Fred'k Worden of Westford, N.Y. [Otsego Co.] to Miss Nettie V. Welden of Upper Fly Creek, N.Y. [Otsego Co. NY]

At the home of the bride's father, James Allen, Dec. 27th, by Rev. F.H. Seeley, Henry A. Seeber and Miss Rosa E. Allen both of Springfield [Otsego Co. NY].

At the residence of the bride's parents, Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY], Dec. 25th, '76 by Rev. Geo. B. Vosburgh, Floyd F. Denton to Mary A. Ottaway.

Deaths

At the residence of his father, at Burlington Flats, N.Y. [Otsego Co.], of hemorrhage, Thos. J. Dignan son of David and Mary Dignan, aged 24 years and 10 days.

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY], Edward Southern a native of England, but for a long time a resident of this town [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], aged 85 years.

In Watertown [Jefferson Co. NY], at the residence of his son-in-law, John H. McKay, Martin Dickenson formerly of Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NJY] in his 78th year.

Gen. James W. Nye died on the 25th ult. at White Plains, Westchester County, New York.  The deceased was born in Madison County, this State [NY] in 1816.  In early life he entered upon the practice of law, was for a time District Attorney, and subsequently held the position of county Judge of his native county.  In 1861 Washoe was created a Territory and Gen. Nye was appointed its first Governor by President Lincoln.  This position he occupied until the new Territory under the name of Nevada was admitted as a State, when he was elected by the legislature as United States Senator for the short term, and in 1867 was re-elected for the full term of six years.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, January 1877 (continued)

 Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, January 6, 1877

Marriages

McDonough [Chenango Co. NY]:  Rev. Charles Morehouse and Miss Amelia Calvert were united in the "Holy Bonds" by Rev. Jos. Clements on the 22d ult.  Several other couples in the town followed the example during the holidays.

OSTELER -THOMPSON:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 22, at the home of the bride, by Rev. W. Burnside, James P. Osteler to Mrs. Ellen O. Thompson, both of Utica [Oneida Co. NY].

MARVIN - CROSBY:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 23, by Rev. W. Burnside, Russel M. Marvin to Miss Charlotte L. Crosby of German [Chenango Co. NY].

SMITH - KNICKERBOCKER:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 26, by Rev. W. Burnside, Daniel Smith to Mary B. Knickerbocker, both of McDonough.

BUTLER - HARRINGTON:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 29, by Rev. W. Burnside, J. Butler to Miss Estella Harrington, both of McDonough.

FRANKLIN - MONEY:  In Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 26, by Darius Davis, Esq., Eldridge Franklin of Preston [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Agnes V. Money of Otselic [Chenango Co. NY].

Last Thursday evening, Dec. 29th, Henry Cook was married to Miss Mary Reynolds.  They have gone to participate in a wedding tour.  May peace and prosperity be theirs to enjoy all through life.

Death

ANDERSON:  At East Avon, Livingston Co. [NY], on the 14th ult., Angeline [Anderson] wife of Erastus Anderson, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], aged about 60 years.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, January 3, 1877

Marriage

WILLIAMS - McALPIN:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], on Dec. 27th, by Rev. W. Del. Wilson, Mr. joseph Williams to Miss McAlpin, both of Guilford.

Note:  Bride's name given as Miss Mary L. McPherson of East Guilford in marriage notices published in Chenango Union Jan. 4, 1877.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, January 6, 1877

Marriages

At the Baptist Parsonage in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 30th, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Frank E. Osborne to Miss Sarah E. [Jackson] daughter of Mr. Oliver Jackson, both of this town.

Also, at the residence of the bride's father, Dec. 30th, by the same, Mr. Frank M. Sage to Miss Addie E. [Rorapaugh] Esq., of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY].

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 22d, by Rev. W.J. Judd, Mr. David B. Phetteplace to Mrs. Rosetta M. Hale, both of Norwich.

At the M.E. Parsonage, in Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 23d, by Rev. W.J. Judd, Mr. James Dibble to Miss Emma Morton, both of Norwich.

At the Parsonage in Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 25th, by Rev. D.W. Bigelow, Mr. Willard L. Pritchard of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY] to Miss Jennie Atwood, of Pitcher.

At the residence of the bride's father in Hamptonburgh, Orange Co. [NY], Dec. 22d, by Rev. S.C. Hepburn, Mr. Benjamin Rose, Jr., to Miss Mary E. Fowler, formerly of Coventry, N.Y. [Chenango Co. NY].

At St. Peter's Rectory, Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 23d, by the Rector, Theodore B. Stone of Well's Bridge [Otsego Co. NY] to Florence B. Tarbell of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 23d, by Rev. G.P. Turnbul, Mr. Joseph Dolan of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss H.M. Smith of German [Chenango Co. NY]

In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], on Wednesday, Dec. 20 by Rev. Jas. D. Webster, Mr. Dwight Hollingworth of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Helen M. Grafit of the former place.

In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 27th, by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. James L. Purrington to Miss Charlotte L. Carr, both of German [Chenango Co. NY].

In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 28th, by Rev. W. Burnside, Mr. Erwin G. Moore to Miss Eliza J. Purdy, all of McDonough.

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 30th, Cida Boughton, aged 2 years and 16 days, daughter of George Boughton.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 29th, Wilson J. [Spencer] son of William Spencer, aged 9 years and 4 months.

In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 26th, Livonia [Lord], relict of David Lord, aged 70 years.  

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, January 1877

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, January 4, 1877

Marriages

JACKSON - DAVIS:  At the residence of the bride's father, Wilber Davis, Esq., in this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 25th, by Rev. L.M.S. Haynes, Mr. Zenas Jackson of Masonville [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss M.E. Davis.

CHASE - KING:  At the residence of Henry Bennett in Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 20th, by Rev. H.M. Crydenwise, Mr. Byron Chase of Earlville [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Libbie M. King of Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY].

BORLAND - BACON:  At the home of the bride, Dec. 27th, by Rev. H.M. Crydenwise, Mr. Thomas Borland  to Miss Lillie L. Bacon, all of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

SHERMAN - WOODMAN:   At the parsonage of the Congregational Church in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 21st, by Rev. S Scoville, Mr. John J. Sherman to Miss Lodema O. Woodman, both of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY].

GRAVES - KETCHAM:  At New Berlin Centre [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 27th, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. Frank O. Graves of New Berlin to Miss Mary A. Ketcham of Nichols, Tioga Co. N.Y.

FRYOVER - LYNDON:  At the Congregational Church Parsonage in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 27th, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. Henry Fryover to Miss Jane Lyndon, both of Eaton, Madison Co. [NY].

TYLER - DIXSON:  In Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 31st, by Rev. I.J. Bailey, Mr. Ormond A. Tyler to Miss Lovinna A. Dixson, all of Morris [Otsego Co. NY].

WILLIAMS - McPHERSON:  At the Rectory in Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 27th, by W.D.L. Wilson, Rector of Christ Church, Mr. Joseph Williams of Guilford to Miss Mary L. McPherson of East Guilford.

CRANDALL - HURLBERT:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 24th, by William T Priest, Esq., Mr. Timothy D. Crandall of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] to Mrs. Mary E.  Hurlbert of Pharsalia.

GAGE - JEFFREY:  In Holmesville [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 25th, by Rev. J.H. Chamberlain, Mr. Leroy B. Gage of Morris [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Mary L. Jeffrey.

COOKE - REYNOLDS:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 28th, by Rev. B.B. Carruth, Mr. Henry A. Cooke to Miss Mary A. "Reynolds all of North Norwich.

NEARING - BEEBE:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 27th, by Rev. E.W. Caswell, Mr. Nearing of Mt. Vision, Otsego Co. [NY], to Miss Nannie Beebe of Guilford.

CLARK - DEAN:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], by R. Peck, Esq., Mr. C.H. Clark of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Jennie E. Dean, of Afton.

GUY - HINMAN:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], by Rev. Mr. Cornell, Mr. Charles Guy to Miss Louisa Hinman both of Afton.

WHITE - BEEBE:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY], Dec. 20th, by Rev. E. Rogers, Mr. Frank White to Miss Nettie Beebe, all of Cincinnatus.

TICE - MEAD:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY], Dec. 20th by Rev. W.D> Pox, Mr. joseph Tice of German [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Ida Mead of Cincinnatus.

BRANNAN -SNOW:  In Marathon [Cortland Co. NY], Dec. 19th, by Rev. B.T. Davis, Mr. Abraham T. Brannan, of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY] to Miss Carrie Snow of Willett [Cortland Co. NY].

Deaths

TIFFANY:  In King's Settlement [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 23d, Lewis M. [Tiffany] son of Lewis Tiffany, aged 26 years.

BROWN:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 29th, Mr. Jeremiah Brown, aged 90 years and 6 months.

WILBER:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 30th, Clarissa [Wilber] wife of the late Thompson Wilber, aged 82 years.

KNOWLES:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 1st, Henry Knowles, Esq., aged 91 years.

On New Year's morning, Uncle Henry Knowles, our oldest citizen, departed this life, at the advanced age of ninety-one years.  He was a prominent member of the Friends' Society and has resided in this town for the past sixty years.  By his death the people of Smyrna lose a most exemplary Christian citizen and must wait many years to find his equal.

BURCH:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 1st, Mr. L.D. Burch, Sen. aged about 70 years.

LYNCH:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 29th, Mr. Thomas Lynch, aged 58 years, 4 months and 17 days.

RUSSELL:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 29th, Mrs. Eunice Russell, aged 65 years.

Mrs. Eunice Russell, well known in this and adjoining villages as "Aunt Eunice," died on Friday, December 29, aged 65 years.  She was born in Milford, Otsego Co. [NY], but for the past thirty years this village [New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY] has been her home, where she has supported herself by running errands and buying and selling rags.  She was so honest in all her dealings, that any of the merchants would trust her to quite a large amount, and "Aunt Eunice" was always selling everything given her to make her comfortable, as she said to pay her debts. For the last year she has been very feeble, but occasionally she would be seen passing through the streets with her bundles.  She will be missed by many, especially those who were very poor, as she would purchase articles for them, and trust them to pay her as they could, in rags, etc.  She has no relatives living.

BAILEY:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 26th, Libbie A. [Bailey] daughter of Julius L. and Mary L. Bailey, aged 17 years.

BOWERS:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], suddenly, Dec. 26th, Mr. Stephen P. Bowers, aged 57 years.

North Norwich:  During the past week two deaths have occurred in this vicinity, viz: Mr. Philander Bowers and a Miss Bailey, the latter living at the toll gate between this village and Sherburne.

LANDERS:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 24th, Mr. Solomon Landers, aged 78 years.

BABCOCK:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 28th, Mr. Alfred F. Babcock, aged 66 years.

WHITE:  In Columbus [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 21st, Mr. Robert White, aged 84 years.

KELLOGG:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY], Dec. 25th, Caroline [Kellogg] wife of Wilber Kellogg, aged 61 years.

ALLEN:  In Geneseo [Livingston Co. NY], Dec. 21st, Mary P. [Allen] daughter of S.P. Allen, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chennai Co. NY], aged 27 years.

ROLPH:  In Urbana, Ohio, Dec. 21st, of scarlet fever, Reuben B. [Rolph] son of Moses and Eudora Rolph, aged 5 years and 4 months.

ALL:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 30th, Dea. Z.S. Hall.

Dea. Z.S. Hall, an old and respected citizen, died on December 30th, after a painful illness of six months.

SINCLAIR:  Notwithstanding the driving snowstorm which prevailed on Friday afternoon last, the funeral of John H. Sinclair, at his father's residence, was largely attended by neighbors and friends.  A large delegation of firemen was in attendance, who accompanied the remains of their late comrade to the cemetery.  The entire typographical force of the Telegraph office also attended in a body.  The headquarters of the various Companies of the Fire Department were heavily draped in mourning, from the time of Mr. Sinclair's death until Monday morning.  Upon the invitation of Rev. D.E. Loveridge, the members of the Fire Department attended services at Emmanuel Church on Sunday evening, with a large number of other friends, when the Rector preached an eloquent funeral sermon, his remarks to the firemen being most impressive.  The choral and other services were appropriate to the occasion.  The family of the deceased desire to express to their friends and particularly to the members of Alert Hose company, their gratitude for the many expressions of sympathy and the kindly offices so delicately administered during his severe and protracted illness and at the funeral. Their generous self-sacrifice and more than brotherly attention will ever be remembered but can never be repaid.

ROWLAND:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 21st, Mr. Eli Rowland, aged 76 years.   Mr. Eli Rowland, Sen., who died at his residence on December 21st was a devoted Christian, an affectionate parent and a kind neighbor.  His loss will be severely felt.  His age was about 77 years.  Thus, one by one the old pioneers are passing away.

NYE:  Death of James W. Nye: Poor Jim Nye died suddenly at White Plains, Westchester County [NY], on Christmas day.   Mr. Nye was born in Madison County [NY], June 10th, 1815.  He picked up a fair education in the common schools and academies, read law, and was admitted to the bar.  He was County judge of Madison County from 1847 to 1851.  Removing to New York, he was made a police commissioner.  In 1861 he was appointed Governor of the Territory of Nevada and took up his abode in that country. Four years later, the Territory became a State and Gov. Nye was its first Senator in Congress; was re-elected in 1867 and retired from public life on the 4th of March 1873.  From that time his reason gradually failed him, and he has been an inmate of a private asylum near New York, his wants being tenderly cared for by a faithful and loving daughter.  Many in this locality, who remember the deceased when in his prime, as a brilliant stump speaker, first a Democrat and afterwards a Republican, and as a popular lawyer in the Courts, will regret to learn of this sad ending of his eventful life.

Historic Sketch of the Settlement of New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY

 Historic Sketch of the Settlement of the Town of New Berlin

by John Hyde

New Berlin Gazette, New Berlin, NY, November 25, 1876

About the year 1797, Thomas Brown, with his family and household goods journeyed up from Rhode Island, the land of his nativity, unto the land of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], and if it were not "a land of promise, flowing with milk and honey," yet it abounded in the amplitude of wild forest game and hillside streams filled with trout to supply the settlers with food.

One or two years previous, James and Barnabas, his sons, had been sent up to explore the new country, and prepare a dwelling place for the family.  They came with an ox team, bringing some necessary articles for the occasion and fixed the future home of the family on a lot situated on the Great Brook and commenced clearing a place among the forest trees to build a log dwelling house and whilst engaged in this now work, they made a brushwood bower to sleep in and for a canopy to protect them from the storms of rain and snow, whilst resting from their daily labor, the boards which formed the sled box of the expedition were taken to make the covering roof.   These boards were afterwards made into a coffin for a Mrs. Edwards, being the only material which could be procured for such purpose at the time, and Mr. Barnabas Brown, with a few tools bro't with him, made the boards into the proper shape and the rites of sepulture on that occasion, and for the first time in New Berlin's infant settlement, were performed with as much heartfelt mourning and sincerity of purpose as attend the extravagant and costly ceremonial services of the burial of the dead in modern times.

Mr. Thomas Brown died about the year 1814.  His son James brown inherited the homestead estate and, on his death, it descended to his heirs, where the title yet remains, and the place is now [in 1876] occupied by Agrippa Butts as tenant.

Barnabas Brown, in the course of events, went out from his father's house and took to himself a wife.  He married a daughter of Nathaniel  Medbury and settled on the lot next to Samuel Anderson's lot on the west.  He commenced housekeeping in a new log house which he had erected for that purpose near where the old orchard is on the north side of the road, running east to west through the farm.

That orchard was amongst his first works after he commenced clearing up the farm.  The old log house has long since disappeared, but the orchard remains, a monument of labor done in youth's bygone days.  A few years employed in clearing up his farm and he was enabled to build a more commodious dwelling house where yet may be seen the now old red painted one story, steep roof building which was the residence of Judge Barnabas Brown, amidst his happy family of sons and daughters, through a long and useful life spent in private and public employment.

In the days of the Council of Appointment, Barnabas Brown received a commission as Justice of the Peace for the town of New Berlin and acted in that capacity several years to the terror of evil doers and the satisfaction of the orderly inhabitants. Esquire Brown was elected and performed the duties of Supervisor for many years in succession in which office he has always been reputed, even down to the present day, the best supervisor the town has ever had.  He also held the office of a judge in the Court of Common Pleas for Chenango County in the Clintonian limb of State politics.  Judge Barnabas Brown was a much-respected member of society and like the Patriarch Abraham, "died in good old age, an old man and full of years and was gathered to his people."  And on his tomb may be written the epitaph:  Here lies "an honest man, the noblest work of God."

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, December 1876 (concluded)

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, December 28, 1876

Marriages

LEWIS - GRISWOLD:  At East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 27th, 1876, by Rev. Joseph Clements, Mr. Eay Lewis of Preston [Chenango Co. NY] and Mary Griswold, of the above named place.

MOREHOUSE - CALVERT:  At the parsonage, East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 22d, 1876, by Rev. Joseph Clements, Rev Chas. A. Morehouse of East McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] and Amelia Calvert, of the same place.

Unadilla Valley:  The matrimonial mania has again made its appearance and threatens to depopulate some homes of all their fair daughters.  Since the marriage of John Lynch of the firm of Rood & Lynch, to Miss Libbie Palmer, Mr. Howard North has taken to himself Miss Mary Prentice for better we trust.  Indications in other quarters are threatening, but time will tell.

Deaths

BOWERS:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], on Tuesday, Dec. 26th, suddenly, of strangulated hernia, Mr. Philander Bowers, aged about 65 years.

MUDGE:  In Coventryville [Chenango Co. NY], on the 23d inst. Mrs. Elizabeth B. Mudge, aged 84 years.

GARDENER:  Mr. Nelson Gardener, known for a long term of years throughout this section, died at Oneida Castle [Oneida Co. NY], on the 8th inst. after a brief illness caused by congestion of the lungs.

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SLATER:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Sunday, Dec. 24th, Jerusha [Slater] wife of Benjamin Slater, aged 56 years and 9 months.

Asleep in Jesus.  A mother in Heaven.  Chime on, ye Christmas bells, she heeds you not, for she has joined the Angelic band, and now touches that golden harp whose tones so rich and clear outrival your merriest peels.  Chime on.  A mother has at last broken from the chains of disease, aye, broken from the fond love of husband, yes, from the cords that bind a mother to her children, and on the wings of peace and love soared to the realms of that daughter whose spirit has for months been calling, "Mother come home."  A Christmas in Heaven, how happy the thought. But look in at that household, where now lies the loved one cold in death.  Those eyes of brightness closed forever; the chair vacant; the devoted husband about to part from the chosen one of his youth and the sons from a dear mother.  Can we say, "He doeth all things well."  Chime on your Christmas Carol, for this a bridal, even nature has put on her bridal robes and Angel voices join you singing, I would not live always, / I ask not to stay / Where storm after storm / Rises dark o'er our way.

May the mantle of that mother's love fall so closely around that father and those sons as to protect them from all evil, and in that day when "they too cross that beautiful river one by one," may they in glad reunion meet.  Then shall t heir happy voices ever raise / In rapturous notes, one ceaseless song of praise.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, December 27, 1876

Death

The report was current here Saturday that Conductor Everts, of the D.L.&W.R., had put a man off his train Friday evening and that the man froze to death.  Part of the rumor was true, the man Irving Montgomery of Clayville [Oneida Co. NY], left Utica [Oneida Co. NY] partially intoxicated and after going by his station paid his fare to the next and going by that requested to be let off the train.   Conductor Everts stopped the train, and he walked the length of the car and got off.  Next morning, he was found frozen to death in the woods, half a mile south of Cassville [Oneida Co. NY].  No blame can be attached to the conductor, who, as his acquaintances can testify, is not lacking in humanity.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 28, 1876

Marriages

At the Baptist Parsonage, in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 22d, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Fred H. Crowell of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Nancy Rood of Greene.

At the residence of the bride's parents in Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 20th, by Rev. W. Burnside, Mr. David Edgerton, of German [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Lettie E. [Knickerbocker] only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Camron Knickerbocker.

At the home of the bride in Freetown, Cortland Co. [NY] Dec. 20th, by Rev. W. Burnside, Mr. Samuel L. Leach, of Marathon [Cortland Co. NY], to Miss Esther A. Bowdish.

At the residence of the bride's parents, in Colesville [Broome Co. NY], Nov. 15th by the Rev. Mr. Martin, Martin E. Thompson to Miss Algia Miller, both of Colesville.

Deaths

In Smithville Centre [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 15th, Miss Emma F. Reid, aged 54 years and 6 months, sister of John W. Reid.

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 18th, Mrs. Lydia L. [Bennett] wife of Lewis H. Bennett, aged 57 years.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, December 30, 1876

Death

East Hill [Chenango Co. NY]:  Eli Rowland, a well-known and respected citizen, died at his residence on Sunday.  Mr. Rowland's health has been very poor for a long time.  His funeral was held at the Baptist Church on Wednesday. Rev. Mr. Marsden preached an impressive sermon.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, December 30, 1876

Marriages

BUSH - LILLEY:  At the home of the bride's parents, in Afton [Chenango Co. NY], on the 25th inst. by Rev N.S. Reynolds, Mr. R.D. Bush of Union Valley [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Margaret Lilley.

DAVIS - BARNEY:  At the M.E. Parsonage in Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] on the 28th inst., by Rev. N.S. Reynolds, Mr. Wm. A. Davis of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Jennie E. Barney of Nineveh [Broome Co. NY].

Among the recent pleasant events has been the marriage of one of our industrious upright farmer boys, Mr. S.A. Reynolds to Miss Mary Odell of Mt. Upton.  We hear the lady highly spoken of.  May happy labor, love and social glee ever be theirs!

Deaths

WILSON:  At Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 20, 1876, Mrs. Mary Wilson, wife of Henry Wilson, aged 34 years.

Diphtheria is raging in East Guilford [Chenango Co. NY].  In one family seven of them are suffering with this disease.  On Sunday, 17th inst., the two youngest children of Mr. Samuel Fox, (Alfred and Lillie [Fox], aged respectively five and seven) were taken sick and on the following Friday came their funeral.  Mr. Fox has the sympathy of the entire community in this, his deep affliction.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, Dec. 28, 1876

Deaths

On South Hill, N.Y. [Otsego Co.], Dec. 16th, '76, George W. Brownell aged 66 years and 5 months.

At Elk Creek, N.Y. [Otsego Co. NY], Dec. 18th, Emma [Palmer] wife of Fred Palmer, aged 30 years and 6 months.

In East Worcester, N.Y. [Otsego Co.], Dec. 14th, of consumption, Carrie Campbell, aged 17 years.

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

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, December 28, 1876

Marriages

LYNCH - PALMER:  At the home of the bride's father in Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 14th, by Rev. E.P. Eldredge, Mr. John Lynch to Miss Libbie Palmer, all of Mt. Upton.

NORTH - PRENTISS:  At the home of the bride's father, Dec. 20th, by Rev. E.P. Eldredge, Mr.  Howard North of Troy [Rensselaer Co. NY] to Miss Mary Prentiss, of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY].

BURDICK - BROWN:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 19th, by Rev. D.W. Bigelow, Mr. Morris Burdick to Miss Ida S. Brown, all of Pitcher.

KENYON - MERICLE:  In Taylor [Cortland Co. NY], Dec. 13th, by Rev. Mr. Snyder, Mr. Elias Edwin Kenyon of Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Celia Mericle, of the former place.

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China Wedding:  Editor Chenango Union: Please allow me a brief space in your valuable paper to give an account of a very agreeable social party, held on Saturday evening, December 23d, at the house of F.A Williams of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of his marriage to Susan Parker.  On our arrival at the place we found the house illuminated and most beautifully decorated with pictures, mottoes, and evergreens, and the guests arriving, until the house was literally filled with at least one hundred and fifty invited friends and relatives.  the evening was sent very agreeably in pleasant conversation, interspersed with most excellent music on the piano by several of the ladies present, among whom were Mrs. Silas Martin, the Misses Hoyts, Mrs. J.H. Phillips and others, assisted by Harry Griswold and Frank Miles with violins, all of whom acquitted themselves with great skill and to the entire satisfaction of the appreciative audience.

At about half-past nine, Mr. Williams and his estimable lady marched into the parlor, escorted by David Shattuck and wife and groomsman and bridesmaid, where they found in waiting the Rev. Mr. Crocker, who welcomed them with a congratulatory address full of cheer and kindness and wishing them a long and happy life, hoping the balance of their lives would be as agreeable and pleasant to themselves and their friends and neighbors as the past had been. At the close of the address the Rev. Mr. Jacobs, of Afton, made a very appropriate prayer for the occasion, and after congratulations by the friends, the party were invited to the tables, which were set in nearly every room in the house, and loaded with every variety of viands to tempt the appetite, all of which showed very fine taste on the part of those having the arrangement of the same.  And it also showed there was no lack on the part of Mr. and Mrs. Williams in providing bountifully in every possible respect for the comfort and happiness of their guests on the occasion. They were very thankful for the many valuable presents received which consisted of a very fine China tea set and many other China dishes, silver ware, &c., to the amount of one hundred dollars, or upwards, all of which Frank acknowledged in a very neat and appropriate speech, which closed the ceremonies for the evening.

Now, in conclusion, allow me to say it was the most agreeable party, all things considered, that I ever attended, and if I ever thought of getting married again, I think now I should go to Coventry to have the ceremony performed.

And now, Mr. and Mrs. Williams, allow me to congratulate you upon living in so pleasant a neighborhood, where all seem to vie with each other to see who shall do most to make your  home pleasant and happy on this anniversary of your wedding, and I would mention specially Mrs. Martin and Miss Finch, who I understand had the superintendence of decorating the house, also of arranging the fruits and delicacies of the tables in great beauty.  Hoping you may live on to the golden period, enjoying the same confidence, love and good will of your friends and neighbors, that you have for the past, is the wish of your friend, John Shattuck.

Deaths

SLATER:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Sunday, Dec. 24th, after a lingering illness, Jerusha [Slater], wife of Benjamin Slater, aged 58 years 9 months and 15 days.

JUDSON:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 21st, Mrs. Hannah Judson, aged 85 years.

HINMAN:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 19th, Mr. Amos L. Hinman, aged 52 years.

HEWETT:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 7th, Mrs. Caroline Hewett, aged 54 years.

FARGO:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 19th, Charlie E. Fargo, aged 2 years and 6 months.

BRIGGS:  In DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY], Dec. 18th, Lydia [Briggs] wife of Lemuel Briggs, aged 36 years, formerly of North Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY].

_____________________________

MUNSON:  In Knoxville, Iowa, Dec. 22d, Mr. M.M. Munson formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

The following letter to Mr. W.H. Bishop, tells of the death of M.M. Munson, a former resident of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], who was well known by all our citizens.  He was much respected here and the announcement of his death will cause a shock to all who knew him:

Geneseo, Ill. Dec. 22, 1876, Mr. W.H. Bishop:  Dear Sir:  I have to announce the death of M.M. Munson, at 3:45 this morning, at Knoxville, Iowa, where he was engaged building an engine house for the C.R.I.&Pacific R.R.  He was taken sick some four weeks since with inflammation of the bowels, but got about over first attack, when he exposed himself, took cold, and the result was his death.  Please report his death to both papers for next week and oblige.  Yours, Wm. Jones

_____________________________ 

SINCLAIR:  At the residence of his father, James H Sinclair, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Tuesday afternoon, December 26th, of typhoid fever, Mr. John H. Sinclair in the 27th year of his age.  Funeral services will be held at his late residence, on Henry Street, Friday next, at 2-1/2 o'clock P.M.

"Thou hast all seasons for thine own, O Death."  In the bright season of flowers, in the full ripeness of autumn, in summer, in winter, in seasons of sadness or seasons of joy and festivity, thy dreadful approach cannot be barred - thy hand is laid upon our loved and best.  Thou hast invaded our circle in the holy Christmas time, and thy deadly shaft has left many bleeding hearts.  May that Sanctified One whose birth gave us a Christmas day and pointed the way to victory over death, give consolation to those who now suffer sore affliction.

The death of John H. Sinclair, one of the most estimable young men in our community, has cast a deep gloom over our village.  Three weeks ago, last Saturday he was taken ill, the disease finally taking the form of typhoid fever and resulting in his death on Tuesday afternoon of this week.  Most of the time during his sickness he was delirious and so was denied the consolation of intercourse with friends.  He suffered intensely during his illness and needed constant watch and care.  He has, in fact, for years suffered much from sickness and nervous prostration and at times his life has been despaired of.  It is not improper to say here that some six years ago, as he was going into his father's house one evening, some wretch threw a stone which struck him in the groin causing great pain and producing a severe shock to his nervous system. ever since that time he has been subject to severe attacks of a nervous character, and his last sickness commenced in that manner.  His untimely death, therefore, is directly traceable to the dastardly attack made upon him in the dark.

For nearly seven years he has been employed in the office of the Chenango Union, as compositor and during all that period deported himself in a manner that won the love and respect of all with whom he was associated.  Ever ready and willing to perform his duties, he was also courteous and pleasant in manners. The vacant place at his case can never be filled by anyone more worthy of respect and confidence.  He was a member of Alert Hose Company, and his death will be deeply mourned by all its members, who will turn out in a body to attend his funeral.

Deceased was the only son of James H. Sinclair, associate editor of the Union and was in his twenty seventh year.  Four years ago last spring, he married a daughter of the late A.J. Carpenter and she with one child survives to mourn his loss. The afflicted friends have the heartfelt sympathy of the entire community in this hour of great trial.  May He who tempereth the wind to the shorn lamb, be kind.

The funeral will take place at the residence of his father on Henry Street on Friday afternoon, at half-past two o'clock.

______________________________

The Sherburne News alludes to one of our old and respected citizens as follows:  Dr. Harvey Harris, of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], was in town Friday, on his way to New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] to attend the funeral of his brother, Squire Harris, who died on Wednesday of this week, at the advanced age of 91 years.  The Doctor is now 81 years old and the youngest of the three brothers, the eldest being John Harris who now resides at New Berlin at the age of 93.  Dr. Harvey Harris and wife are the oldest married couple now living in the town of Norwich, having been married 54 years.  They reside on the place where the Doctor was born, his father settling there in 1789.  Squire Harris, deceased, resided in this town a number years and removed to New Belin about eight years ago.

__________________________

ASHCRAFT:  Suddenly, in Preston [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 20th, Mr. Peleg Ashcraft, aged 51 years.

By the death of this most worthy and Christian man, this kind and indulgent parent and faithful husband, the community in which he lived have sustained a loss which is painfully felt and plainly expressed by those with whom he sustained the position of neighbor and friend.  He had always been a farmer and by industry and untiring labor had secured for himself and his children a competence and a pleasant and attractive home.  He was a member of the M.E. Church at Preston, and by his generosity and benevolence helped sustain it and endeared himself to his brethren.

The family and friends of deceased feel that the hand of God falls heavily upon them in removing from their midst this friend in the strength of manhood and whom they could not well spare; but knowing that "He doeth all things well," and that He alone can bind up their wounds and give them hope of a reunion hereafter, are constrained to bow to this sad dispensation.  He leaves a wife and four children who were wont to look to him, for support and loving kindness.  His aged mother, three sisters and an only brother, Henry M. Ashcraft, Esq., of this village survive him.

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

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, December 21, 1876

Deaths

White Store [Chenango Co. NY], The remains of the late Dennis Phetteplace, which were interred in the family burying ground, situated upon the farm of Milton Hoag and John Phetteplace, were last week removed and reinterred in the new cemetery here.

Otselic [Chenango Co. NY]:  Charles Mack, only child of Orville Mack, and son-in-law of Mr. E.D. Parker, died of typhoid fever Saturday, the 9th inst.

On Thursday, Mrs. Atwell, aged about 75 years, living at her son's, Geo. Atwell's, near the lower factory ground, Morris [Otsego Co. NY], was prostrated by a fit and died in about an hour.

A letter recently received by a citizen of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] announces the death, by sunstroke, last summer, in New York City of Mr. Rufus Clark, who labored there two years ago in the revival with Rev. Mr. Parker.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 21, 1876

Marriages

At the Congregational Parsonage, Dec. 14, by Rev. A.B. Dilley, Mr. Frank Ashley to Miss Ada Hollis, all of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].

In Fenton [Broome Co. NY], Nov. 29th, by Re.v A.C. Sperry, Mr. Thaddeus A. Taylor, of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Alice E. Tyler, of Fenton.

In Fenton [Broome Co. NY], Dec. 6th, by Rev. A.C. Sperry, Mr. Charles T. Ousterhout of Liberty, Pa., to Miss Olive A. Porter, of Fenton.

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 10th, Edmond A. [Skinner], infant son of George and Adelia Skinner.

In Chicago, Ill., Dec. 11th, Mr. Darwin S. Roe, aged about 45 years, formerly of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].

New Berlin Gazette, New Berlin, NY, December 23, 1876

Marriages

CHASE - BLISS:  In Springfield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 13th inst., at the house of Horace Slyter, Esq., Mr. L.H. Chase of Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY] and Miss E.G. Bliss of Schuyler's Lake [Otsego Co. NY].

HORTON - VAN SCHOICK:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 20th, 1876, by Rev. N.J. Hawley, Mr. Cyrus Horton of Montrose, Pa and Mrs. Van Schoick of New Berlin, N.Y.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, December 21, 1876

Marriages

At the M.E. Parsonage, in Sidney Plains, N.Y. [Delaware Co.], Dec. 14th, 1876, by Rev. J.S. Southworth, Zimri P. Mead of Hartwick, N.Y. [Otsego Co.] to Mrs. Emeline Hand, of Laurens [Otsego Co. NY].

In Worcester, N.Y. [Otsego Co.], Dec. 13th, by Rev. J. Evans, Lewis H. Utter and Miss Violet Platts, both of Worcester.

Deaths

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], December 15th, 1876, Lieut Robert Russell Jr. aged 35 years.

At her residence in Westfield, Chautauqua Co. N.Y., September 28th, 1876, Miss Lucretia Hudson, in the 80th year of her age.

In Cherry Valley, N.Y. [Otsego Co.], at the residence of Capt. A.L. Swan, December 19th, 1876, Miss Debora H. Hudson, in the 78th year of her age.

The deceased were the youngest daughters of Judge Ephraim Hudson, one of the earliest settlers in the village of Cherry Valley, who died in 1805.