Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, March 1877 (continued) & March 1876

 Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, March 22, 1877

Marriages

At Fernleigh Farm [Otsego Co. NY], March 14th, by Rev. E.E. Peck Albert Wolcott of Kingston, Pa., and Almeda Barnum of Cooperstown, N.Y. [Otsego Co.].

At the M.E. Parsonage, Sidney Plains, N.Y. [Delaware Co.], by Rev. J.S. Southworth, Levi Barker of Unadilla N.Y. [Otsego Co.] to Miss Julia M. Griggs of the same place.

Deaths

In Garretteville [Otsego Co. NY], March 10th, Mrs. Susan M. Bingham aged 58 years, 8 months and 10 days.

In Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], March 9th, after a short illness, Washington Gardner, aged 51 years.

In Oswego Falls, N.Y. [Oswego Co.] of paralysis, Mr. John D. Stevens in the 79th year of his age.  He was a native of Pierstown [Otsego Co. NY], his father, Josiah Stevens, with four brothers having settled in that locality 90 years ago.  For the last 40 years Mr. S. has resided in Oswego County, where he has been honored with official positions, the duties of which were faithfully performed.  Honesty and uprightness were marked traits of his character and life.

In Sacramento City, Cal., Feb. 28, 1877, William H. Brainard, formerly a resident of Pierstown [Otsego Co. NY], aged 61 years.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, March 29, 1877

Marriages

At the residence of and by the bride's uncle, Rev. J.S. Southworth, at Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY], March 21st, 1877, George R. Morenus, of Sidney Center, N.Y., and Miss Ada H. Smith of the same place.

A letter from Unadilla Forks [Otsego Co. NY], of the 20th, to the Utica Herald, says:  "The numerous descendants of Deacon Elijah Gates of Unadilla Forks [Otsego Co. NY] had a reunion of more than ordinary interest at his residence today, that being the sixtieth anniversary of his marriage.  For 60 years the deacon and his wife Betsey have kept house and farmed it on the same acres. The deacon is in his 83d year and his wife, 79.  He has five children, fifteen grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Deaths

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], March 25th, after a brief illness, Mary Ann [Sharrock] wife of Robert Sharrock, aged 56(?) years.

In East Springfield [Otsego Co. NY], March 21st, Daniel Cook, aged 75 years.

In Milford [Otsego Co. NY], March 3d, George Risedorph in the 73d year of his age.

In the town of Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY], March 17th, John A. McFee, aged 63 years.

In Canajoharie [Montgomery Co. NY], March 20th, James Milton McFee in the 36th year of is age.

Ashley Hotchkin, quite a noted character in the town of Maryland, died on the 18th, aged 73 years.  He was a man of considerable scientific information and an occasional contributor to the press.

Dr. Charles W. Tallett who was elected Member of Assembly from this county [Otsego Co. NY] in 1856, recently died in Michigan, where he was engaged as a teacher.

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Death of Dr. Tracy Beadle

After a brief illness, this gentleman died suddenly in Elmira [Chemung Co. NY] on the 22d inst. in the 69th year of his age.  He was born in this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], spent his boyhood and early manhood here and was married to a sister of Capt. Worthington.  He studied medicine, but never practiced his profession.  When he removed to Elmira in 1835, he then opened a drug store. The place was then a mere hamlet.  In 1849 he and a few other gentlemen organized the Bank of Chemung which business he conducted until recently and retained a large interest in it during his life.  From an early purchase of land lying near the city, he realized a large profit.  He was active as a public man, was elected to the Assembly in 1862 and to the Constitutional Convention in 1867.  He was a very pleasant, entertaining and agreeable gentleman, of a genial disposition and it was always a pleasure for his old friends and others to meet him on his annual visits to his native village.  He spent some time at the Hotel Fenimore last season.  Dr. Beadle leaves a wife and three sons.  His brothers, Rev. Dr. Elias R. Beadle is still living in Philadelphia.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, March 21, 1877

Marriages

Feb. 19:  At Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY], by Rev. L. Muzzy, Mr. L.N. Potter to Miss Imogene O. Hawkins, both of Edmeston.

March 7:  At the parsonage of the M.E. Church in Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] by Rev. W.G. Queal, Mr. William J. Mitchel to Miss Lucia E. Avery, both of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY].

March 15:  At Otego [Otsego Co. NY], by Rev. J.W. Mevis, Mr. Jason G. Wilsey and Miss Eva M. Mumford, both of Otego.

March 15:  At the M.E. Parsonage in Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], by Rev. J.W. Mevis, Pling R. Place and Miss Emma M. Burrell, both of Otego [Otsego Co. NY.

Deaths

March 8:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Joseph Brooks, aged 77 years.

March 10:  In Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY], John Olendorf, aged 74 years.

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March 13:  In New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY], Rebecca Sheldon.  Death has again found its way into our neighborhood.  We regret to announce the death of Mrs. Rebeca Sheldon, after suffering a long time she is taken away and leaves her family and a large circle of friends to mourn her loss.  It is hard to part with a mother, a child's best friend, but when the Master calls we must go.

It was a sad and mournful day, / For sister, dear, and I. / When there so sick our mother lay, / We knew that she must die.

And now she's gone, that mother dear, /And leaves us here alone, / But when we meet her far or near, /We'll know she is our own.

The wife of Nathan Sheldon died March 13th.  Last Fall Mrs. Sheldon complained of what she supposed to be a hard cold.  After a few weeks a physician was called.  Her lungs were found to be in a bad condition.  All that could be done for her seemed to avail nothing and for many weeks past her friends had watched by her bedside, expecting every hour that death would release her from suffering.  She leaves a husband and three children who will sadly miss her loving care and counsel.  She had been a member of the Baptist Church for many years.  The funeral services were held at the Centre; sermon by Rev. Church.

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Feb. 3:  At the residence of her son, Col. A.E. Adsit, Dearfield, Dane county, Wisconsin, Mrs. Betsy Elizabeth Adsit, aged 85 years.

Like the noble women who have gone before her, whose names are household words in almost every family, she began her early life under the trying circumstances of pioneer life among the hills and forests of the town of Butternuts, Otsego County, New York.  Here she toiled and endured the hardships of that early life, never complaining and reared a large family of children, most of whom are now living and honored wherever they may be.  In 1847, she, with her family, removed to the county of Dane, Wisconsin, on the farm where she died, again enrolling her name among the pioneers, who have made Wisconsin what it is, and today the name of Mother Adsit is familiar throughout the whole county of Dane, among the high and the low, the rich and the poor, as one of God's noble women.  Under her roof and in her presence, care and trouble were forgotten and warmth and sunshine reigned.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, March 23, 1876

Deaths

In Toddsville [Otsego Co. NY], March 16, 1876, at the residence of her son. S.S. Todd, Mrs. Sarah [Todd] (widow of the late Lemuel Todd, aged 91 years and 7 months.  Her children, 7 in number, were all present at her funeral, the oldest aged 71 and the youngest 51 years.

In Exeter [Otsego Co. NY], March 8th, 1870, Mrs. Maria West, aged 62 years and 1 month.

In Richfield Springs [Otsego Co. NY] on the 14th inst. of heart disease, Hiram L. Fay aged 67years.

At his residence in Springfield Center [Otsego Co. NYT] March 6,'76, Oliver N. Sherman, aged 78 years and 9 months.

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Died at Hartwick Seminary [Otsego Co. NY], March 13th, 1876, Orange Todd aged 78 years 6 months and 25 days.

We are called upon to chronicle the death of another or our oldest and most respected citizens.  The last one of the old men who have lived for many years in the vicinity of Hartwick Seminary has heard the summons which we all must sooner or later obey.

Mr. Orange Todd was born on the 18th of August 1802.  He had, therefore, passed the age of three score years and ten, and verily we can say of him "Thou hast come to thy grave in a full age, like as a shock of corn cometh in his season."  The last 23 years of his life were spent in our midst, in the home from which his body was carried to the grave.  During all these long years he followed one after another of his neighbors, those of his own age, to their last resting place, till at last, he stood alone, like a solitary pine in the forest, conspicuous for its loneliness. Eighteen years ago, he united with the Lutheran Church of this place, and since that time he has been a faithful and devoted member and for a greater portion of the time an officer of that church.

Mr. Todd was pre-eminently a Christian, one who carried his religion into all his business affairs and relations.  Without being disagreeably forward, he was always ready to converse upon and suggest topics of religious interest and those who knew him best know that it was not for effect, but from the promptings of a pure heart.  He displayed the same readiness to speak for his Master, whether in his family, among his neighbors, or with his pastor.  We know of no better tribute than the testimony of one of his sons;  "We think he has been a good father to us."  To this we would only add, that from a quite intimate acquaintance of about twelve years, we are prepared to bear our testimony that his walk has been consistent and his conversation godly.

As the end approached, we received his last humble confessions and when prayer had been offered, he seemed at peace.  "I am now ready to be offered," said he, and so on the 13th of March, 1876, his emancipated spirit returned to God who gave it.  These words from 2d Timothy 4-6 were used on the Thursday following as the text for a funeral discourse preached by Rev. James Pitcher.  A large congregation of friends and neighbors assembled to pay their last tribute of respect to the dear departed.

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

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 22, 1877

Marriages

At the Baptist Parsonage in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], March 14, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Elman L. Andrews of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Jennie W. Mudge of Coventry, formerly of this village.

In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], at the house of the bride's parents, March 15, by Rev. Jas. D. Webster, Mr. Jas. H. White of German [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Alice C. Kenyon of the former place.

In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], March 8, by Rev. L. Pitts, Mr. G.S. Graves of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Hattie T. Price of Binghamton.

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] March 10, of dropsy, Jane [Rooney] wife of Samuel Rooney, aged 46 years.

Mrs. Furgerson of New York, sister of the late Mrs. Samuel Rooney of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] received a letter on the evening of the 10th inst., that her sister was not expected to live but a few days.  The next day, the 11th, she packed her satchel and was in readiness to take the 7 o'clock train.  At twenty minutes before six o'clock she received a dispatch that her sister (Mrs. Rooney) was dead, and such was its effect upon her that she lived but twenty minutes.

At Farmer's Valley, McKean Co., Pa. suddenly, March 11, Mr. J.B. Babcock, formerly of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], aged 51 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], March 12, Mrs. Achsa Thompson, mother of B.L. Thompson, aged 73 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], March 13, Carrie [Bullis], wife of Albert Bullis, aged 26 years and 5 months.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, March 24, 1877

Marriages

KOON - HILL:  In West Eaton [Madison Co. NY], on the 16th inst. by the Rev. F.F. Stark, Mr. Nicholas Koon of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Frank Hill of West Eaton.

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Twentieth Anniversary

Mr. Editor:  As most of the news from our place has been of broken bones and shattered limbs, and as we have pleasant things, just as our lives are made of clouds and sunshine, I write you of a very enjoyable affair which took place at L.A. Marble's March 17th in the shape of a China wedding.  About fifty guests were present and all passed off as merry as a "Marriage Bell."  A number of friends clubbed together and presented them with a set of dishes, six large spoons and a lamp.  Other presents were given, the most noticeable of which was a pair of beautiful vases.  A very nice lunch was served of pie, pressed chicken, cakes and ice cream.  good music and lively converse made the time pass pleasantly and it may well be termed one of the green spots in memory.

At the presentation of presents three essays were read, one of which I send for publication.  In one an idea was advanced that Mr. and Mrs. M's affection for each other is stronger now than at the beginning of their married life.  It was also hoped that they might always eat in the harmonious state of "Jack Sprat and wife" and live to enjoy a silvery old age.

Mr. and Mrs. Marble:  We congratulate you upon the happy termination of the twentieth anniversary of your marriage.  That the twenty years in the main have passed happily with you we have ample evidence in your still youthful appearance and contented and happy smiles.  We also see that you have been blessed with three intelligent children, a blessing that is becoming rare in these modern times.  How have the twenty years passed with us?  Have we spent the time profitably to ourselves and others?  Have we done one single act that we can feel proud of?  As our anniversaries come around do we pause in the hurry of life to take a retrospective view of the years that have passed and take an inventory of our good and bad deeds?  Strike the balance and see how our account stands.  I am afraid that it would come out like most other accounts, the balance on the wrong side of the ledger.  Let us see to it that for the coming year we may have the balance on the right side.  Now how stands your account?  That you have your balance on the right side we can but believe, as your example and influence have done great good in this community.  That you have open hands and liberal hearts is also evident.  If in the future you should have reverses, the clouds gather thick around you and the world seems cold and dreary, stand firm as a rock, let not your faith be shaken in the right. The clouds will soon pass over and you will be stronger and better for the contest.  It is labor that gives strength.  It is disappointment that tries our faith.  Our happiness or unhappiness in a great measure is in our own hands.  Let us look on the bright side of life, think everything for the best, be cheerful and contented, then we shall be happy.  We feel like making a covenant with you tonight to help each other in sickness and health in prosperity and adversity, to lift up, not to pull down, to spread the mantle of charity over our errors, and I think we shall be the happier for it.  We shall all have our marriage anniversary, but we know not when the "bridegroom" will come.  Let it be sooner or later, may we be prepared for that event, and at last may we all meet on the other shore where there is no sorrow or pain, but perfect happiness.  Then we will take seats at the "bridal feast" to part no more.

A Guest.

Death

CARTER:  In this city [New Orleans, LA], at St. Charles Hotel, on Tuesday, 6th inst. Lavinia C. Carter aged 20 years, daughter of John A. and A.C. Carter, of Louisville, Ky. [The Times-Picayune, New Orleans, LA, Mar. 7, 1877]  

The Louisville Courier-Journal [Kentucky] contains the following touching tribute to Miss Lavina Carter, a name dear to many hearts in this community [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY].

A name too familiar to the people of Louisville to require an introduction.  She has long been known as the brightest star in our public school, distinguished always for an active, strong, reliable intellect, and a character "chaste as ice, pure as snow."  Her life was a master poem, composed of a succession of the most delightful thought, each one surpassing in beauty the one preceding, until we strive to find some flaw; but our study only reveals to us solid truths and Christian virtue clothed in the most beautiful and expressive language.  I have watched her grow from childhood almost to womanhood; always the same guileless child, doing her duty ever and illustrating the sublimest truth, and sometime, in my heart, I have said:  "Surely such loveliness is Heavenbound."  Even as I write memories sweet, but as sad as sweet, flood my eyes with regretful tears, a few short months since June and she graduated, the valedictorian of a large and talented class.  Crowned with every honor and awarded every medal a learned faculty could bestow, I see her now, standing in a sweet simplicity, peculiarly her own, to receive her certificates of superior excellence in every department.  These were to her worthless toys, for often have I heard her say she studied from love of it and a sense of duty to do her best in everything.  As a child I have known her to receive the first honors of her class and never tell even her home loved ones.  Love sprung up in her pathway, ever and especially among her classmates in connection with her they knew none of those usual petty jealousies about "class honors;" each and every one gave a hearty and loving acquiescence to her having the highest and best.  Their presence and beautiful floral offerings on the sad occasion of her funeral told a fond, sweet story of love and devotion.  Surely nothing could speak more directly to our hearts of Lavina than the pure white rosebuds worn by her pall bearers.  The first gem to drop from Love's shining circle, so young, so bright, so beautiful to die.  The fairest flower in "the land of fair flowers" was wafted to heaven on the wings of love.

"Our noisy years are but as moments in / The being of eternal silence"

[daughter of John Allen Carter & Albana Caroline Carson; b. Mar. 1, 1857, d. Mar. 6, 1877]

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

 Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, March 21, 1877

Marriage

On Tuesday of last week, a part of invited guests assembled at the house of Joseph Kenyon to witness the marriage of Miss May Kenyon of South Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], to Mr. Floyd Stillman of Linklaen [Chenango Co. NY].  The house was literally crowded, and each guest seemed to vie with the other in making himself agreeable so that a fresh storm of jokes was kept up until the arrival of the Rev. H.C. Leach.  The knot was tied neatly and tightly.  After this followed the congratulations of the guests.  Each one with a smile kissed the bride and shook hands with the groom.  Then followed another shower of jests and jokes.  But this was at last brought to an end by the announcement that supper was ready.  And as I am told, such a supper.  Our pen refuses to perform its accustomed office as we attempt to describe it, suffice it to say that each guest did ample justice to the viands placed before them.  At a late hour the party separated.  May they long live and happy be is the wish of all.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, March 24, 1877

Marriage

POTTER - HAWKINS:  February 19th, at Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY], by Rev. L. Muzzy, Mr. I.N. Potter to Miss Imozene O. Hawkins, both of Edmeston.

Deaths

DWIGHT:  In German [Chenango Co. NY], March 1st, 1877, Amanda M. Dwight, daughter of Henry and Margaret Dwight, aged 26 years.

HAWK:  In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], on the 20th inst., Polly [Hawk] widow of Israel Hawks, aged 83 years.

ADSIT:  February 3, at the residence of her son, Col. A.E. Adsit, Dearfield, Dane County, Wisconsin, Mrs. Betsy Elizabeth Adsit, aged 86 years.

GUILE:  On Thursday, March 8th, James H. Guile, of Lordsville, N.Y. [Delaware Co] was crushed by falling between the cars on a freight train on the Erie Railroad, near Port Jarvis [Orange Co. NY].  It is supposed that he fell while passing from the caboose to engine.  The wheels passed over his body, cutting him entirely in two, and severing one hand and foot.  His watch was crushed and indicated 7:25, this being the time of his death.  The deceased was a brother of W. Guile of King Settlement [Chenanog Co. NY], was thirty years of age and leaves a wife and one child.

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The Rev. Samuel W. Bush, Chaplain of the Inebriate Asylum in Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], died at the Asylum, about six o'clock, Wednesday evening, at the age of seventy years.  He was for four years pastor of the Congregational Church in this village, from 1851 to 1855.  The following brief sketch of his life and labors we find in the Binghamton Times of Thursday:

"Rev. Mr. Bush passed the earliest years of his life in Berkshire County, Massachusetts.  At eight years of age he came to Albany where he devoted himself to his education.  About the time of attaining his majority he returned to Berkshire.  Here he studied law and edited a newspaper.  A brief sojourn at Albany succeeded.  He next entered the Auburn Theological Seminary where the preparations for his work were made.  His first field of labor was at Binghamton.

"He came to this city [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] in 1839 as pastor of the Congregational Church, at that time situated on Chenango Street.  In 1840 he married Betsey Weed, a member of one of the prominent families of the village and who survives him.  He held the pastorate of the Church for about five years.  He left Binghamton to take charge of a Church at Skaneateles.  After remaining at that place for three or four years he removed to Norwich in which village he was a pastor for a term of years, leaving Norwich for Cooperstown.  In 1861 he returned to this city.  In 1866 he took the office of Chaplain of the Asylum, a place which he has filled for most of the years since and in the duties of which he was engaged when called to his rest.

"He was a man of scholarly attainments and irreproachable character, devoted to his calling, and attaching to him those under his spiritual charge."

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, March 21, 1877

Marriage

WALKER - GORHAM:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] on 18th, by Rev. Walter Scott, Mr. Frank H. Walker of Albany to Miss Hattie A. Gorham of Masonville [Delaware Co. NY].

Deaths

Guilford, Chenango Co. NY:  The funeral of Abijah Shelton was largely attended on the 11th inst. at his father's residence, Rev W. Wilson officiating.  The deceased was a young man of sterling worth and genial manners, beloved by all who knew him.  His health has been declining for the past few years and at the age of 35 he yielded to disease and has left a large circle of friends and relatives to sorrow that he should so soon finish his course.

Guilford, Chenango Co. NY:  Died on the 10th inst., wife of the late Lemuel Jewell and mother of W.B. Jewell of this place, and Mrs. Sorinberger of Chittenango, also of Henry and Truman Jewell of California.  The deceased came to this place from Connecticut in 1822, and was the oldest resident of this village, and of course closely identified with its early history.  She was a devoted wife and mother, a kind neighbor, and a faithful Christian, doing her duty quietly and unobtrusively in the state of life to which she was called.  She was 85 years old, but always had borne her years lightly, retaining to the last her powers of mind and body in a wonderful degree.  Rev. Mr. Scoville, of Norwich officiated at the funeral and made some most fitting remarks in his usual impressive manner. 

News Item

An Elopement in High Life

A dismal wail coming from the Rogers House rent the frigid air Saturday evening.  Our reporter hastened to the spot and found a strong man - strong enough to life one hundred and fifty pounds - in tears.  A sympathizing guardian showed him into the sitting room from whence flowed the excessive moisture, and what a scene met his gaze my fellow countrymen, or words to that effect.

Mr. Bert Lamb was pleading with a fond wife and two children to return to his chateau among the snow-clad hills of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], but the fond wife was as immovable as a brazen image and signified her intention of fleeing to the sunny clime of Cortland with Blind Tom Burt, he of orchestral fame, who has drawn the long bow at several receptions in our village the past winter and aroused the jealousies of the Red Street beaux.  Blind Tom sat at the right hand of the beautiful creature, inhaling her fragrant breath and rocking one of the children, as unconcerned as the boy who put the wasp in the schoolmaster's pocket.  After madame imparted the information that the children were Blind Tom's and that it was her duty to go with him, kind hands dried the tears of the injured husband, and the buss was announced.  The guests of the house, who had divided their sympathies now of one accord assisted the fleeing couple and they with bag and baggage were loaded into the buss and got the "send off" at once.  While waiting at the depot, Tom, who it is supposed was restored to sight for an instant, tried to escape, but was brought back by the woman and the two drew forth their pipes and smoked the pipe of peace, and answered the pertinent questions of "the boys" who has smelled the heart rendering affair from afar.  The train drew up and the soulless wretches departed without one word of comfort for the sorrowing husband who sang "What's this dull town to me! Life's not here!" and immediately departed for McDonough with another woman.  Divorce is to follow.

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

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 22, 1877

Marriage

WEBSTER - BRIGGS:  At the bride's residence in Lower Beaver Meadow [Chenango Co. NY], March 18th by Rev. S.H. Adriance, Mr. L.P. Webster of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Mrs. A.C. Briggs, of the former place.

Deaths

FREEMAN:  At the residence of Mrs. S. Follett in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 16th, of consumption, Miss Ernestine R. Freeman, daughter of the late Charles P. Freeman, of New York and adopted daughter of the late Walter M. Conkey, aged 26 years and 9 months.  

PARKER:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 20th, Sarah Parker, aged 80 years and 8 months.

CLARK:  In Brisbin [Chenango Co. NY], March 14th, Mr. William Clark aged 60 years, brother of E.S. Clarke of Preston [Chenango Co. NY] where he formerly resided.

BALDWIN:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], March 15, Mrs. Patty/Polly Baldwinaged 84 years and 7 months.

KENYON:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], March 14th, Mr. Solomon Kenyon aged 63 years.

TAYLOR:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], March 13th, Mrs. Huldah Taylor aged 82 years.  

FOOT:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], March 17th, Bede [Foot] wife of the late Leonard Foot, aged 88 years.

BUSH:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], March 13th, Mr. Abial Bush, aged 77 years.

Mr. Abial Bush, another of our aged and respected townsmen died at his home east of our village [Guilford, Chenango Co. NY], on the 13 inst., aged some seventy-seven years.  Ever since we can remember, Mr. Bush has resided in our vicinity, and until within a few years taken an active part in public matters. He was of that class of substantial, reliable citizens, who are unfortunately passing away.

TALLETT:  In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], March 14th, L. Jay [Tallett] only child of Merton M. and Minerva m. Tallett, aged 16 months and 17 days.

HARRINGTON:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] March 5th, Hermie D. [Harrington] child of W. Harrington, aged 2 months and 5 days.

PALMER:  On Onarga, Ill. March 11th, Laura L. [Palmer] wife of Hon A.S. Palmer, aged 51 years, formerly of Columbus in this county [Chenango Co. NY].

SMITH:  The remains of Mrs. Smith, widow of the late John P. Smith, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], were brought to this place on Thursday and interred on the family lot in the Norwich Cemetery.  She died in Rome [Oneida Co. NY], where she had resided for years past, having been stricken with paralysis two weeks previous to her decease.  Many will remember her while a resident of this village as an estimable lady, whose memory will long be cherished by those who knew her.

HAIGHT:  In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], suddenly, March 14th, Mr. William Haight of South Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], aged 52 years.

William Haight, a well-known resident of South Oxford, suddenly expired while at work in Coventry, on Wednesday forenoon inst.  Deceased was engaged by Mr. Beardsley of this village in drawing stone for a new building in Coventry, he having a box sleigh, and while passing the Parker neighborhood met Mr. Peter Parker, with whom he had some conversation.  He was on foot, following the team, and soon after Mr. Parker saw him stumble into the sleigh, make an effort and then remain quiet.  The team walked leisurely along a short distance until they came to a little rise in the road where they stopped and Mr. Parker who had been watching all the time, hastened to the spot and found Mr. Haight in the sleigh dead.  The body was removed to Mr. Joel Parker's house and properly cared for until the arrival of friends and here it was that the driver of another team, who had been ahead of Mr. H., but out of sight, was met coming back to see if he had not met with some accident.  Dr. Throop was called and viewed the body, pronounced the cause of death disease of the heart of which Mr. Haight had been troubled lately.  Deceased leaves a wife and four children, two of whom, a son, living in this village, and daughter are married.  For two or three years he had kept the boarding hall on the Sidney camp meeting ground, where he made a great many friends and acquaintances.  His funeral was largely attended from the Methodist Church, in this village, on Saturday.  Times

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JEWELL:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], March 10th, Mrs. Lemuel Jewell, aged 85 years.

In the death of Mrs. Lemuel Jewell on the 10th inst. at the advanced age of eighty-five years, our community lost one of its oldest and most respected citizens.  Coming to this place from the East at an early period, she entered her new field with cheerful courage, soon becoming identified with many benevolent and praiseworthy objects and lived to behold, through the trials and vicissitudes of over half a century, the origin and prosperity of our village, as well as the growth of the surrounding country.  For fifty years she lived and toiled upon the spot where she died and with true motherly solicitude, witnessed a family grow up and go forth into distant parts of the country.  With Christian resignation she meantime endured family afflictions and death, and under the filial care and protection of a faithful son, calmly awaited the sure summons that at last found her ready.  She retained her faculties until the last and was gladdened during the past few months with visits from sons in California, whom she had not seen for many years.  All who knew her will miss Mrs. Jewell, for her many kindnesses in the long years that are past and cherish her remembrance with feelings of the deepest respect.  Her husband died something over two years ago, aged about ninety-four.

News Item

Many of our older citizens will remember "Black Frank," Frank Gilmore, a colored man, who worked and lived in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] some years ago.  Well, Frank recently received $1,100 back pension, by the loss of a son in the army, and is to receive $8 a month hereafter.  Many years ago, Frank was a slave and was the property of Col. Richard Juliand of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], for whom he worked a number of years.  Mr. Juliand subsequently gave him his freedom and finally Frank came to Greene [Chenango Co. NY] and worked for George and Lewis Juliand, alternately, for the space of twenty years.  Frank now resides in Binghamton and his interests are looked after by Dr. Hodge, who, we understand, has bought Frank a comfortable little home with a portion of his pension money.  Frank was an honest and trusty servant, and his friends here rejoice to know of his prosperity in the declining years of his life, even though it comes through a sad source.  American

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

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, March 14, 1877

Death

ROOME:  At Claremont, N.J., on 5th, Freddie [Roome] son of Henry C. and Mary Roome, aged 3 years.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, March 17, 1877

Death

Jemima [Pratt], widow of Joshua Pratt, died in Sherburne village [Chenango Co. NY] March 11, 1877, aged ninety-two years, eight months and two days.  Her maiden name was Talcott.  Her father, grandfather, great-grandfather, father-in-law, husband and oldest son all had the name Joshua.  She was born in Bolton, Conn. July 9, 1784, and removed with her parents to Sherburne in 1798 to the farm now [in 1877] owned by Mortimer W. Gardner in the western part of the town.  She was married December 2d, 1803.  Her husband was then Joshua Pratt, Jr., a poor young man who had been in Sherburne a few years, engaged in clearing land by the acre for the owners.  He was born in Spencertown, Columbia Co., N.Y., November 16, 1780. the Pratts were originally from Saybrook, Conn.  Shortly after their marriage the young couple went to living in a small house standing on, or near the site of the brick block, in Sherburne village in which the office of the Sherburne News now is [in 1877].  There was a large garden in the rear and a building for making potash, from which Potash Creek takes its name.  In that house several of their children were born.  About the year 1814, the family moved to the place across the river and near the river bridge, where Talcott Pratt now lives [in 1877].  A tavern had been formerly kept there by Lauren Curtis. The next and last move was about the year 1833 to the Hubbard house in Sherburne village.  Mr. Pratt and Dr. White bought the Hubbard farm for the purpose of allowing the State to construct the Chenango Canal across it, the former owner being opposed to the construction of the canal. The late Joshua Pratt was a man of great energy of character and carried on an extensive business with many branches, as farmer, merchant, potash manufacturer, lumberman.  The hill in North Norwich where he had his steam sawmill is commonly called Pratt's mountain. When a comparatively poor man, he lost a stock of goods which he had bought on credit by the sinking of a sloop on North River and before coming home he went back to the city, bought another large stock of goods on credit and went on with his business as if nothing had happened.  He died July 4th, 1860.  Mrs. Pratt was a member of the Congregational Church of Sherburne for more than sixty-five years and retained her interest in religious matters until the last.  when she could no longer read, she had others read to her.  The great prolongation of her life was doubtless owning in some degree to the faithful attention of Miss Margaret Conley who was with her for the last twenty-eight years.  Of the ten children of Joshua and Jemima Pratt four only survive:  Caroline, wife of Dr. Devillo White, of Sherburne, Joshua Pratt, President of the Sherburne National bank, Talcott Pratt, who lives on the old place on the west side of the river, and Elisha J. Pratt of Evansville, Indiana, who is engaged in mining coal.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, March 8, 1847

Marriage

A Golden Wedding:  On Monday last, Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Seeber (parents of Dr. A.W. Seeber of Milford village [Otsego Co. NY]) celebrated the 50th anniversary of their wedding day at their residence in that place.  about forty persons, the immediate relatives of the honored pair, were present.  During the day when the family were all assembled, Mr. Reuben Lowell (brother of Mrs. Seeber) called their attention to the occasion of interest which had brought them together and in a very affecting manner extended on behalf of himself and relatives the warmest congratulations.  This was followed by an address from their Pastor, Rev. A.B. Richardson during the delivery of which he submitted several facts of family interest.  Mr. Seeber's ancestors were of French descent, born in the province of Alsace.  They left their native country for America during the French Revolution.  His great-grandfather was a Colonel in our Revolutionary war.

Mrs. Seeber is of English descent.  Her maiden name was Lowell.  Her relatives were the first builders of the factories known now as the Lowell factories, Mass. 

The family of the aged pair consisted of seven children, six of whom are living.  There are fourteen grandchildren.  In their circle of relatives are five physicians, five ministers of the gospel, two attorneys at law and several teachers.  The original marriage certificate was read and the old family Bible, which had been in use for half a century, was presented to the company.  After warm congratulations were given to the parents and to the relatives, Mr. Seeber rose to reply on behalf of himself and wife, and with much emotion said he had hoped to see this day and God had granted his desire.  He and his wife experienced religion 48 years ago and have sought to adorn their profession from that time.  He spoke in the highest terms of his children. They had been dutiful and obedient, and he rejoiced at their present position in the church and the world.  Singing and prayer closed a most impressive and interesting ceremony. 

Several valuable golden presents adorned a little table in the center of the room.  Mr. and Mrs. Seeber are in their 72d year and are looking well.  May many happy years yet be theirs on earth and when at length they are removed from us, may the family meet unbroken in heaven.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, March 15, 1877

Deaths

In Morris, N.Y. [Otsego Co.], on the 10th inst. of pneumonia, Jonathan M. Lull, aged 69 years.  Mr. L. was for many years a merchant in Morris, where he was highly esteemed as an upright, obliging and kindhearted citizen and neighbor.

In Springfield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 7th inst., after an illness of six days, Stewart E. Cooke aged 42 years, senior member of the firm of Cooke & Curtis.  Mr. Cooke was a good citizen, a kind neighbor and an affectionate husband and father.

In Utica, N.Y. [Oneida Co.] March 9th, 1877, W. Wood of Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY], aged 71 years.

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], March 5th, Mrs. Chas. Saxton, aged 88 years.

In Springfield [Otsego Co. NY], Feb. 18th, Miss Ann E. McLean eldest daughter of Andrew and Emily A. McLean, in the 20th year of her age.

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], March 1st, Smith Morgan, aged 66 years.

In Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY] March 3d, Daniel Church, aged 72 years.

In Schenevus [Otsego Co. NY], March 8th, after a long sickness, Dr. Peter Simmons in the 47th year of his age.

In East Worcester, N.Y. [Otsego Co.], March 1st, 1877, Mrs. C. C. Dana aged 45 years.

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] March 3d, 1877, Levi Gilbert in the 56th year of his age.

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In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] on the 8th inst., Edwin S. Coffin, aged 65 years.

Another of the older citizens of Cooperstown justly held in high esteem for his many excellent qualities as a man, has passed away.  We met him on New Year Day, "trying to make a few calls and to see, for probably the last time, some of his old friends," as he pleasantly remarked.  He was then an invalid as he had been to a greater or less extent for a long time.  Patiently, cheerfully, industriously, he took up the daily duties of life, discharged them to the best of his ability as a conscientious and upright man and when the summons of the master came, he was ready to obey.

In 1859, Mr. Coffin was chosen a Member of Assembly by the Whigs, as a free-toll Democrat.  On Mr. Lincoln's election to the Presidency, he was appointed Postmaster of this village, which office he held for about ten years.  He was chosen Coroner in 1872 and afterwards Justice of the Peace.  By trade Mr. Coffin was a painter in which he excelled as a skillful workman.  He fully enjoyed the confidence and esteem of his fellow citizens who have sympathized with him in his long illness and regard his death as a loss to the village.

Oneonta Herald & Democrat, Oneonta, NY, March 9, 1877

Marriages

In Milford [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 27th, by Rev. G.E. Flint, Christian Gunner and Mrs. Polly Judd.

At the same place and by the same, March 1st, Elihu Gifford and Mrs. Delia A. Cronkhite.

In the same place, by the same, March 4th, Frank Siver and Elizabeth Townsend.

At the residence of Alvin Clarke, the bride's father in Plainfield [Otsego Co. NY], on the evening of Feb. 23 by Rev. S. Burdick, Chas. A. Jewett and Miss Netta Clarke of Plainfield.

At Richfield [Otsego Co. NY], Feb. 22, by Rev. J.V. Furguson, M.D. Sanford of Camden [Oneida Co. NY] and Miss L.H. Wilcox(?) of Richfield.

At the residence of the bride's father, in New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY] by the Rev. Hobart Cooke, Stephen H. Morse and Miss Mary H. Walters.

Deaths

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], March 5(?) Mrs. Chas. Sexton aged 33 years.

In Schenevus [Otsego Co. NY], Feb. 23, of congestion of the lungs, Lucy [Baldwin], consort of Solomon Baldwin, aged 72 years 11 months and 5 days.

In Toddsville [Otsego Co. NY], Mrs. Sarah Evans aged 82(?) years.

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY], March 5, Thomas D. Smith aged 73 years.

In Davenport [Delaware Co. NY], March 4, Thomas M. Gilchrist aged 57 years.

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY], March 1, Miss Emma Niles, grandniece of Rev. A.E. Daniels, aged 21 years 5 months and 13 days.

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY], March 4, Mrs. Sarah E. Moore, wife of Orrin H. Moore, aged 71 years and 6 months.

At E....boro(?), Ia. in Feb. John F. Brett(?) formerly of Harpersfield, Del. Co. [NY], aged 61 years.

At Woodbine, Ia., Feb. 23(?), David A. Bostwick formerly of Noth Franklin, Del Co. [NY] aged 55 years.

Academic Memories, Norwich Academy, Chenango County, NY

 Academic Memories

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, March 24, 1877

"Time is a handbreadth, 'tis a tale; / 'Tis a vessel under sail, / 'Tis an eagle on its way."

Ever on the wind and brings again the close of the term in Norwich Academy [Chenango Co. NY].  The first Monday in the month of December in the year 1842, and the writer of these lines was the first scholar that entered this building.  With a schoolmate, bright and early upon that Monday morning, through banks of snow upon every side, I ran, for in those days girls and boys both ran, being the fastest on the pace, when my friend was at the gate I was at the door, and after two or three hard knocks with my slate the door was opened and away we flew to the top of the building, taking note of the third story, then down to the basement even, then the cellar, and back to the ladie's chapel, when we selected our seats and waited the coming of our dear teachers.

I cannot claim to be the first graduate, for two aspiring youths, one the son of the Presbyterian minister and the other, now the editor of the Telegraph, had gone up in the belfry before the floors had been laid and having then the spirit of Young America to rush things, had slipped upon the ladder and young Sessions brought up in the cellar, while Gage Berry hung to the round, and still adheres to the old watchword, "Excelsior."  The first term opened with Benjamin F. Taylor, A.M., Principal; William W. Robinson, A.B., Assistant; Miss Harriet A. Dillaye, Principal of the female department; Miss Susan Austin, (now Mrs. H. Hubbard) Assistant; Mavia L. Weston, teacher of music, painting and drawing.  It numbered 140 students the first week and increased to nearly three hundred before the year closed.  But Alas!

"Time's an arrow in its flight; / 'Tis a short lived, fading flower; / 'Tis a rainbow on a shower; / 'Tis a torrent's rapid stream, / 'Tis a shadow, 'tis a dream; / 'Tis a bubble, 'tis a sigh"

Of all that band of teachers and scholars, where are they?  and echo answers, "Where?"  One teacher claims Norwich as a home, and a few of my old schoolmates remain in and about the town.  As I enter here after an absence of twenty-eight years, I hear again the same pieces spoken I heard then.  I listen to the same old bell ring out the invitation to come, and the tones revibrate back from the hills of Chenango.  The same blue heavens are above.  The same sun rises in the morning that did when I hurried with my books, to answer "present" in the chapel.  The same moon rises at night that rose so bright when we all came together to "choose sides" and "spell," and a more "momentous time" was that than any Returning Board, Electoral Commission, or Inauguration can ever be.  The same beautiful stars gem the sky that sparkled and twinkled when we met in the Academy yard to find "Old Orion" the "big and little dipper," or "Taums."  Yes, Time ever on the wing, and many a star has fallen, many a bright light has been extinguished by a shroud, many an old comrade has fought his last battle and died as a soldier dies, and the mates of my youth are scattered far and wide.  But shall we not cherish still the hope we fain would think as given, that "those we know and love on earth, will know and love in Heaven."  But I would say one word to those who are climbing the hill of knowledge, and are to separate, perhaps for a few days, it may be forever.  Enjoy the present, make hay while the sun shines, strive to improve the golden opportunities that you now enjoy.  Remember you are upon a broad road, the tracks are laid of the best material, the bridges are built upon a firm foundation.  The President and stockholders are learned and efficient, but you must all run your own engine, when you leave the yard.  You have your choice, whether you will run a "dummy" or genuine steaming, whistling, rumbling, crashing, smashing, fizzing, shining engine.  You may choose freight of passenger, cattle or repairing, Mail or Pacific Express, but you must keep the steam on a lever, not too high, not too low, have the right firemen, and a trusty and strong brakeman, but 'tis you to blow the whistle, to ring the bell, to make the smoke curl in wreaths to the very Heavens, or in a grand smash, shipwreck the train, and with surging waves and the crackling flames run no more.  Remember, keep a close watch, the night may be dark, but lanterns are burning, the signals are up and if an accident will happen, jump for your lives; but bear in mind you alone are responsible for the fire box, and once burned out can never be repaired.  

As I enter these dear old walls once again, all my old schoolmates are here with me.  I am borne back to the days of my early years, and with feelings too deep for utterance, I note the change in all things, aye, even in my own self.  The trees which will soon robe themselves for Spring and Summer, I helped plant and water, and the yard and walks I have swept many a time.  Yes, even the halls and floors of the whole building have been swept and moped by two of us schoolgirls.  The roses have been planted, the grass seed sown, the desks scrubbed, the curtains washed, and the tables set and waited upon by twelve of us girls and boys for one of our closing parties.  Well do I remember the last supper, the Summer of 1850, when the appointed committee thought to treat themselves for the labor of the evening before, and having put the house in order and washing all the dishes, we have just settled ourselves to an extra, when behold the face of the Principal appeared at the window.  But now I look in vain for one of those students.  I think but three of that company remain in town, and the dear Preceptress who was with us, has, with more than half of that merry band, gone to that better land, and now wear the golden crowns, which it is my earnest prayer shall be given to all teachers and scholars who have ever been enrolled upon the books of Norwich Academy.  I look in vain for our library, with its neatly arranged shelves of books, its cupboard for each and everything, even the "words that breathe and thoughts that burn" of those days, had a corner of that cupboard.  But the saw and the hammer have done their work and whoever in their desire to improve, tore up that carpet and desecrated those walls must have strange ideas of reform and improvement.  No wonder the scales have fallen from the hand of the figure of justice upon the dome of yonder courthouse, and she stands looking Heaven ward for mercy to take the place of the long since departed justice.  

Of the twenty-four trustees who planned, protected and watched over the Academy for fifteen or twenty years, I believe but three now are living.  Thus, we see the footprints of time upon everything.  Thus, the old bell now rings, "Passing away, passing away," and with many a sigh for the days of "Auld Lang Syne," I exclaim in the language of the motto now adorning the chapel "That day will never dawn again." Good-bye old Norwich Academy.  

H.A.M.

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

 Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, March 14, 1877

Deaths

Mrs. Thompson, mother of B.L. Thompson, Esq., of our County Clerk's office [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], died on Monday morning last, at the residence of her son in this village under peculiarly distressing circumstances.  It will be remembered that Mr. Thompson was sick last Winter with varioloid in a mild form for several weeks.  The extreme lightness of the attack gave rise to doubts as to the real nature of the disease, though every precaution was taken with person and bedding and clothing that was deemed necessary at his convalescence.  Some six weeks since, his mother came to visit him from her home, we believe, in Watertown [Jefferson Co. NY], and was soon after taken sick.  She has lingered along under what was supposed to be a slow fever accompanied with erysipelas, &c., for several weeks until the last few days, when fears began to be entertained as to her recovery.  On Sunday last, Dr. Prindle who lives near, was out and in several times, and upon his last visit at evening pronounced her disease the smallpox, and that it was in its last stages.  On Monday morning as we have stated, she died, and examination proved that Dr. P. was right.  Though the disease had made but little show in the face, the body was covered with unmistakable evidence of smallpox.  She was quietly buried at midnight of same day, and every necessary precaution taken to prevent the further spread of the disease.

The supposition is as we learn that she contracted the disease from sleeping under the bed clothes or some portion of them which had been contaminated during the son's sickness and had been overlooked in the final fumigation.  This is the only exposure that is known that could have happened.

Mrs. Thompson was a woman of rare virtues and was highly esteemed by all who had made her acquaintance.  All will regret her the unfortunate circumstances attending her sad death.  Mr. Thompson and his family will receive the deepest sympathy in their great bereavement made more sad by the unfortunate circumstances attending it.

From the fact that the people of our village were so thoroughly vaccinated a few months since, no spread of the disease is anticipated, though the Board of Health will take every proper precaution to prevent it.

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Mrs. J. Pratt, the much beloved and respected mother of Joshua Pratt of this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], died at her residence, Sunday morning.  The deceased could properly be called one of Sherburne's pioneers.  Her deceased husband, Joshua Pratt, was very prominent in business and agricultural pursuits in the palmy days of Sherburne.  Mr. P. has lived to a good old age and up to the time of her decease, retained her mental faculties in a wonderful degree. We all mourn the loss of a good lady.  Her age was 82 years.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, March 17, 1877

Marriages

STRINGHAM - CADY:  At the residence of Geo. H. Stringham, in Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], March 11th, by Rev. I.P. Nicholson, Mr. Enos Oliver Stringham to Miss Martha E. Cady, all of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

BOSWORTH - FRANKLIN:  At South Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], March 12, by Rev. H.C. Leach, A. Jay Bosworth of McDonough [Chenango County, NY] to Eudema Franklin of Preston [Chenango Co. NY].

On Thursday last, the venerable Jedediah B. Wheeler and wife passed the fifty-sixth anniversary of their wedding day.  It was enjoyed quietly at the old homestead with a few friends.  Mr. and Mrs. wheeler have lived in our town for many years in the enjoyment of the confidence and respect of all who know them.  Coming of good old new England stock their habits have been such through life that though now advanced in years, yet their constitutions are as well preserved, and both give promise of many more years of usefulness.  That their days may long be spared to the community, well as to their family is the ardent wish of their many friends both here and elsewhere.

Deaths

SIMMONS:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], March 12th, Mrs. Emeline [Simmons], wife of Isaac Simmons, aged 67 years.

LULL:  March 10th in Morris [Otsego Co. NY], of pneumonia, Jonathan M. Lull, aged 68 years, 11 months and 21 days.

WEBSTER:  March 10th, in Morris [Otsego Co. NY], Mary A. Webster aged 89 years and 6 months.

BINGHAM:  March 10th, in Garrettsville [Otsego Co. NY], Mrs. Susan M. Bingham, aged 53 years 8 months and 10 days.

O'NIEL:  In Gilbertsville [Otsego Co. NY], Thursday morning, March 8th, Charles O'Niel, aged about 60 years.

GARDNER:  In Gilbertsville [Otsego Co. NY], Friday evening March 9th, Washington Gardner aged 51 years.

SHELDON:  North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Last Tuesday John Sheldon buried his infant child, aged three months.

SMITH:  At Rome, Oneida Co., N.Y., on Tuesday, March 13th, Mrs. Almira P. [Smith] widow of John P. Smith, deceased, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], aged 74 years.

In another column will be found the announcement of the death of Mrs. Smith, formerly well known to most of our older citizens.  Mrs. S. was the widow of the late John P. Smith, and though she has been living at Rome for many years, her remains were brought to this place on Thursday and interred in the Norwich Cemetery by the side of her husband.  They were accompanied by her son J. Van Smith.  Mrs. S. was stricken with paralysis some two weeks since and lingered until her death, alternating between hope and fear, attended by two daughters and other friends, each vying with the others in kind attentions to their aged relative and when the brittle cord was at last broken, they kindly laid her down to rest in her chosen spot.  Mrs. Smith was during her residence here highly esteemed for her many sterling qualities and her memory is sweet to many by reason of kind offices rendered while living here.  All will unite with the stricken children and friends in sympathy for their bereavement and tributes of respect for the departed.

BULLIS:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], at the residence of Wm. Castle, on the 13th inst., Mrs. Carrie L. Bullis aged 26 years.

The deceased with her husband had made all preparations to go to Kansas, their goods were packed, and they were about starting when she was taken suddenly ill.  The physician was summoned and everything which gentle nursing by loving friends could do to arrest the disease was done, but all to no avail, rapidly she went down, only about a week of sickness and the young wife, loving sister, and cherished friend has gone out and up to the other home and many mansions.  She died as the Christian died going down to the mystical river calmly, peacefully, joyously; in faith resting upon Jesus and the light from the spirit world breaking in to cheer the soul at the dying hour.  "So, God giveth his beloved sleep."  May God give special support to the husband and many friends so suddenly and sadly bereaved.

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On Wednesday afternoon, William Haight, a respectable citizen living about two miles below Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], was found dead in his sleigh under the following circumstances:  He was drawing a load of lumber from South Oxford to Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] and was seen by a farmer while passing his house near Coventry.  In a short time the farmer looked in the direction the team was going and saw the horses were standing still.  Mr. Haight not being in sight, the farmer went to the sleigh and found Mr. H. Dead.  It is supposed he died of heart disease or apoplexy.

Mr. Haight was a well-known citizen, a member of the M.E. Church, and highly esteemed by those who knew him.  He will be remembered by many in various portions of the County as keeper of the Campground boarding house at Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY].  He was we believe, a member of the official board of the M.E. Church at Oxford.  He leaves a large family to mourn his sudden death.

Historic Sketch, Settlement of the New Berlin, NY

 Historic Sketch of the Settlement of the Town of New Berlin

by John Hyde

New Berlin Gazette, New Berlin, NY, January 18, 1877 

Job Vail, a pioneer in the first settlement in the Valley of the Unadilla River, took possession of a lot near the Asa Angell farm and commenced the up-country work of clearing and building a log house to live in with his wife and children.  Rumor, with her thousand tongues, proclaimed that during the war of the Revolution, he was a believer in the doctrine that the king could do no wrong, and was not finally convinced of his mistake until the king was compelled to acknowledge the independence of the thirteen old United Colonies.  Howsoever what might have been his opinion, during the stormy period of the war struggle he commenced the work of improvement in the new settlement with the energy and emprise of a faithful and diligent citizen.

After he had provided a place for his family, his next undertaking was to build a mill to grind grain and another mill to saw logs into boards, two conveniences greatly needed in the new settlement, and these two mills were the first mills built in the town with the exception of Herrick's mills which were built about the same time.   His mills were made profitable to himself and beneficial to his customers who were enabled to make more commodious dwellings for their families and places to thresh out their grain and a mill to grind it of which they had been destitute until the enterprising labor of Mr. Vail furnished the means.  He lived to old age and left a valuable property to his children, the descendants of one of them are yet in the ownership of part of the farm.  The mills and the residue are owned by Mr. Skinner.

His son Frederick Vail married a daughter of James Smith, who was one of Tarleton's soldiers at the battle of Cowpens and was taken prisoner by Morgan's squadron and brought north and finally became a citizen of New Berlin.

Nathan Taylor owner the lot whereon is now the South New Berlin village.  He was an honest, industrious and respectable farmer, and took an active part in the management of town business.  He held town office from time to time, was a Justice of the Peace under the old Council of appointment, and sometime a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, also a member of the assembly to revise the laws and it may be declared that he faithfully and honestly discharged his duty in the several offices entrusted to him and sustained the character of a good citizen.  He left a goodly heritage to be enjoyed by his children.

Mathew Calkins owned a farm a short distance below Judge Taylor's farm on the river.  The Calkins farm is one of the most pleasant and beautiful locations on the river and in value has no superior of the same number of acres.  Mr. Calkins understood the art of surveying and in the early settlement of the town, spent much of his time in surveying the different lots in the town which enabled him to become acquainted with their particular value and make his selection understandingly. His choice warranted the goodness of his judgment.  He was influential and active in the town business, held the office of Justice of the Peace by commission from the council of appointment of olden times.  He was a member of the Methodist church.  A Methodist camp meeting was sometimes held in his sugar maple orchard grove, a beautiful place for such meetings and of an evening when all nature seemed hushed in silence, the gentle breeze scarce riffled the green leaves on the overhanging treetops and lights innumerable shining bright from lamps suspended from sides of trees, made visible all the vast multitude within the encampment listening to the words of the speaker, standing on a high raised platform, or to the vocal sounds of praise resounding in harmonious cadence all around, and echoing throughout the woods, presented a scene from which no one could withdraw without being convinced of the reality of religion and the sincerity of its worshipers, whither in the field or in the temple. 

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

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 15, 1877

Marriages

PUDNEY - RECORD:  In Smyrna [Chenanog Co. NY], March 3d, by Rev. Mr. Jones, Mr. John Pudney to Miss Julia E. Record, both of Sherburne.

SHAPLEY - LYON:  In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 16th, by Rev. L.A. Wild, Mr. Keeler E. Shapley of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Sarah Lyon of Coventry.

Deaths

THOMPSON:  At the Residence of her son, B.L. Thompson, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Monday morning, March 12th, Mrs. Achsa Thompson, formerly of Jefferson County [NY], aged 73 years. 

Our citizens were startled on Monday morning last, by the announcement that Mrs. Achsa Thompson, mother of B.L. Thompson had died at his residence on Hayes Street of smallpox.  But a few weeks since Mrs. Thompson came from Syracuse to visit her son and family and had been suffering from erysipelas and fever, but not until Sunday evening was it discovered that she was in the last stages of smallpox, and her death took place on the morning following.  She was buried on Monday evening.  It is supposed that she contracted the disease form sleeping upon a mattress which had been in her son's sick room and used by him during a mild attack of varioloid in December last.  The mattress had for weeks after his recovery been buried in the snow and other precautions taken to prevent any exposure thereafter.  Many friends, who had made the acquaintance of the deceased regret her death and sympathize with the surviving relatives.  Her age was 73 years.  No fears are entertained of the spread of the disease.

BULLIS:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 13th, Carrie [Bullis] wife of Albert Bullis, aged 26 years and 5 months.  Her remains were taken to Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] for burial.

PRATT:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], March 11th, Mrs. Joshua Pratt, aged 83 years.

ROOT:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], March 5th, Betsey [Root] wife of the late Thomas Root, aged 74 years.

LAWTON:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], March 12th, Mr. Edward Lawton, aged 80 years.

WEST:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], March 6th, Mr. William West, aged 77 years.

TAYLOR:  In Saline, Mich., Feb. 27th, Rev. Orson Dwight Taylor, aged 60 years.  Deceased was the father of Prof. O.D. Taylor, of Smyrna [Chenanog Co. NY] and a native of Chenanog County.

YOUNG:  In Utica [Oneida Co. NY], March 5th, Mr. George A. Young, aged 37 years.  Deceased was, until recently, a workman in Ashcraft's Marble Works, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

ROWE:  Utica papers [Oneida Co. NY] chronicle the death of Mrs. Elizabeth Rowe, widow of Amasa Rowe, at Elizabeth, N.J., last week.  She was born at Deerfield Corners [Oneida Co. NY], or the hamlet which is now called by that name, March 13th, 1787, and was the first white child born in that section which subsequently became and now is Oneida County.

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ROBINSON:  The Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY] papers announce the sudden death on Wednesday of last week of William A. Robinson after a few hours' illness of heart disease.  He will be remembered by many of our citizens, as a brother of the late Mrs. William C. Wait, and his genial countenance on his visits to our village was always welcome.  His funeral was attended on Sunday by Mr. and Mrs. George Rider of this place.

Mr. Robinson was born in Devonshire, England, town of Chagford, October 16th, 1803, and came to this country in 1820.  He was for many years in the dry goods and manufacturing business in Madison County [NY].  In 1826 he was married in Syracuse, on Church Street to Emeline Leach and removed to Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], where also for many years he was engaged in the dry goods business.  In 1832, the year of the cholera excitement, he removed with his family to Syracuse, and opened the old Eagle Hotel, situated where now stands the Clinton Block, opposite the First Baptist church, of which latter for many years he was an active member.  For many years he was proprietor of the Onondaga Temperance House and was universally respected.  Six children survive him.

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SHELTON:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], March 8th, of consumption, Mr. Samuel Abijah Shelton, son of Lucius Shelton, aged 35 years.

On Wednesday of last week, Samuel Abijah Shelton, second son of Lucius Shelton, Esq., died at the residence of his father, in Guilford, aged thirty-five years.

Five years ago, he was attacked with a bronchial difficulty which slowly but continually increased.  Two years ago last October, he, in company with Merritt Shumway, of this village, who was also similarly afflicted, left for Santa Barbara, California, hoping to receive benefit from the mild climate of that country, but failing in this, he returned to his home in the following January.  His traveling companion also returned to the home of his father Sylvenus Shumway, Esq., in this village, where he gave up his young life in February 1875.

After his return from California, Mr. Shelton's health continued to fail, until he too was compelled to yield to the destroyer.  He was a gentleman of intelligence of high moral character and universally esteemed.  No pains or expense had been spared by friends to alleviate his sufferings and his death is mourned by a large circle of relatives and friends.  He was unmarried.

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We learn that Emil Timm, of Preusen, Germany, who was in the employ of White, Smith & Co., in this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], last summer, is supposed to have been murdered in Philadelphia.  He left here the 16th of October with a view to visiting the Centennial, having about $60 with him, and intending to go to New York where he had money deposited with the German Consul, or was expecting to receive remittances.  We do not learn that he visited the Consul, but that he proceeded to Philadelphia, and stopped at a house at which a murder is reported to have been committed at about that time.  A body has recently been discovered near the Centennial Gounds, the description of which leads to the impression that it may have been the remains of Timm.  His father has been in correspondence with Mr. Bickert of this village; also White, Smith & Co. and the consul, but no trace of Emil has been found since his arrival at Philadelphia, hence the conviction that he was murdered.  He was a young man of unusual intelligence, courteous in his manners and very much esteemed by those who made his acquaintance.  It is to be hoped that the mystery of his disappearance may yet be unraveled.  News