Saturday, December 2, 2023

Vital Records, Chenango & Otsego Counties, NY (May 1877 continued)

 Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, May 17, 1877

Death

Ives Settlement [Chenango Co. NY]:  Since our last, death has taken from us Mr. Abial Bush, a life-long resident of this place.  Although not permitted to engage in the active duties of life, yet we sadly miss him.  He was a kind friend and neighbor, and much esteemed and respected by all who knew him.  We trust that he is safely at rest in that "home over there."

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, May 17, 1877

Marriages

At the home of the bride in Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY], May 10th, by Rev. Newell Woolsey Wells, Henry Bollman and Marcia Reynolds, all of Cooperstown.

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], May 9th, by Rev. J.F. Parry, George Lippitt and Charlotte Stocking, all of Cooperstown.

Deaths

In Decatur [Otsego Co. NY], April 22, '77, Sarah [Treat] wife of Elisha Treat, aged 81 years.

Near Schenevus [Otsego Co. NY], May 4, 1877, Mrs. Eve Beagle relict of John Beagle, aged 62 years.

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY], April 29, 1877, Ellen [Wyman] wife of William Wyman.

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY], May 8, 1877, Marian [Walby], wife of Delos Walby and daughter of Abel Mann, aged 50 years 4 months 7 days.

Near Worcester [Otsego Co. NY], May 3d, 1877, of heart disease, Mrs. Phebe Bentley, relict of Geo. Bentley, aged 67 years.

In Exeter [Otsego Co. NY], may 4th, 1877, Richard Davenport, aged 40 years.  

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, May 16, 1877

Deaths

May 9:  In South Columbia, Herkimer Co. [NY] of cancer, Joseph R. Fox, brother of Dr. Fox of this village [Morris, Otsego Co. NY], aged 69 years.

New Lisbon, Otsego Co. NY:  Lyman Gregory died at his home at the Centre, Friday, May 4.  He had been in poor health for a number of years but was able to walk about until a few days before his death.  He was a member of the Baptist Church at the Centre and was deacon of the Church quite a number of years, previous to his going west, from which place he returned about a year ago.  Since his return his health has been very poor.  He leaves many friends to mourn his loss.  His sister, Miss Eliza Gregory is very sick at his house.  It will be remembered they are children of Rev. Seth Gregory, who died a few years since, after an active life as a minister of the gospel.

Oneonta Herald & Democrat, Oneonta, NY, May 18, 1877

Marriages

In Franklin [Delaware Co. NY], May 6, by the Rev. W.A. Dunning, Capt. Harry Duel and Miss Serepta Bartlett, all of Franklin.

In Gilbertsville [Otsego Co. NY], May 2,  Howard(?) Freer of Franklin [Delaware Co. NY], and Miss Dell Bedient.

Deaths

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], May 16, Carrie [Figger] wife of Wm. Figger, aged 24 years.

Mrs. Carrie Figger died very suddenly Tuesday afternoon.  She was visiting at her father's, Benj. Beach, in this village [Oneonta, Otsego Co. NY], helped wash the dinner dishes, but at that time complained of feeling bad.  In about an hour thereafter she died, while sitting in a chair.  Buried at Portlandville [Otsego Co. NY], Wednesday.

In Delhi [Delaware Co. NY], Chas. W Reynolds.

At South Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY], April 30, Chandler Taylor, aged 78 years.  He was born in Weston, Fairfield County, Connecticut, Feb. 18, 1799.  Five children are left to mourn his loss; of these all were present at his funeral except one who lives in -?-.  Mr. Taylor was a Congregationalist.

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From the Delhi Republican:  The death of Geo. W. Clark, after a few minutes' illness, on Sunday night, startled the community.  He was born in Berne, Albany County, Dec. 17, 1821; was a student of the Hon. Joseph P. Bradley, of the United Stated Supreme Court; Graduated at Union College when 18 years of age and was admitted to the Bar at Twenty-one.  In 1859, on the Democratic ticket, when there was a Republican majority of 1,500, he was elected District Attorney of this county.  The result was largely due to his personal popularity.

As a lawyer, he was connected with many of the causes that attracted public attention, as the Harrington murder trial and the Kennedy-Lee slander case.  Judge Follett is reported to have said on hearing of  his death: "The Delaware Bar has lost one of its brightest lights;" while Judge Murray said to the writer of this article : "That while I cannot say that Clark was as familiar with the books as some other lawyers, yet such was the character of his mind that he arrived at the correct conclusion without authority, while others, who disagree with him, were hunting the authorities and finding that Clark was right."

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Last week Sexton Brazee removed from the old burying ground the remains of a young man named Raymond, who died in this village thirty-six years ago, and deposited them in the Franklin cemetery [Delaware Co NY].  The bones were in quite natural condition to all appearances and the sides of the coffin were standing although greatly decayed.

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Death of Chester D. Pope

Chester D. Pope of the Havana Magnetio Spring Sanitarium [Schuyler Co. NY] was attacked with a severe pain in one of his upper teeth about three weeks ago. After suffering with it for several days he had a dentist take out a gold filling and after cleaning it out had it refilled. A cavity in a tooth on the lower jaw was filled at the same time. Returning to the Sanitarium he suffered so much pain that he slept but little that night. the pain in his teeth and jaws alternated, first one and then another with only occasionally a few hours of intermitting ease, until his death.  Morphine and Laudanum and chloroform and arnica were used in and about the tooth. After a few days of extreme suffering he had the tooth that seemed to ache the most extracted.  He suffered much at intervals, till Sunday afternoon while eating his dinner, the first warm food he put in his mouth the pain took him again in an upper tooth.  He was nearly frantic with it.  He found temporary relief by holding cold water in his mouth frequently renewing it. This was continued till about midnight. About ten o'clock a large poultice was made and frequently renewed by heating it.  Occasionally he sprinkled a little chloroform on it.  About eleven o'clock, his wife, Dr. Pope, retired with him but as he could not lay quiet for the pain, advised her to retire to another room so that she might sleep.  He urged that he could get along just as well and as no one could bear the pain for him, that neither herself nor the nurse should remain wakened.  Finally, about an hour later the doctor retired to a room close by, where she could be called if wanted.  He expressed his intention not to wait longer than 2 o'clock if the pain continued from his tooth, when he would send for a dentist and have it drawn. The neuralgia about the face, jaw and ear were decided to have proceeded from a tooth.  The Doctor retired and being much worn, slept until awakened early in the morning by the servants passing through the adjoining hall.  She arose and upon entering the room found her husband dead in about the same position he had lain when she retired.  She spoke to him, but although no answer could be made, she could hardly believe him dead.

A postmortem examination was held the following day, Dr. Flood of Elmira, Dr J.W. Thompson of Watkins and Drs. Smelzer, Wager, Ames, Hinman, and Post of Havana being present. The decision rendered was that the deceased came to his death by inhaling chloroform from the poultice.

The funeral took place from the residence, the Sanitarium, on Wednesday afternoon at two o'clock.

The deceased leaves a wife, Elizabeht D. Pope, M.D. and two daughters to mourn his loss, which comes like a thunderbolt from a clear sky upon them.

From our acquaintance with the deceased and the general estimation of him by the people of our village, no man can be more missed than he.  Always active in business, he was likewise foremost in every good work and had a kind word for everybody he met and this we regard as one of the highest tributes that can be paid to his memory of any man.  He was a kind and indulgent partner, and an exemplary husband. The marriage relation was an exceptionally pleasant and happy one and surrounded with every comfort and free from all financial embarrassment. No man could hardly have had more to make life desirable than he.

Since the above was put in type we have received a paper published at Havana and find that in main facts the two articles substantially agree.  Below we print what the Havana paper says of the general character of Mr. Pope.

In the death of Chester D. Pope, not only his family have met with a grievous and irreparable loss, but this village and society in general suffers the deprivation of a personal friend, who was foremost in every good work. A kind husband, a generous and indulgent parent, a good neighbor and an upright, active and honorable citizen, he has passed away with no cloud upon his memory, but one of sorrow because of his departure.  He always had a kind word for everybody.  He was sociable and hospitable to a rare degree and people stopping at the Sanitarium were always made to feel the warm welcome of a home.  He took a broad and liberal view, holding his mind ever in readiness to receive light, upon subjects of moment to man.  He made the world brighter and better and happier, for his living and laboring in it.  He loved labor and was never so contented as when building or beautifying something useful.  falling in the prime and flush of his manhood and usefulness, while surrounded with all the comfort of a pleasant and happy home, free from all financial encumbrances, with a loved and intelligent family about him, there was certainly every reason for him to look, as he doubtless did, as lightly and gladly into coming years as anyone who walked the streets today.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, May 16, 1877:  Mr. Pope was for several years a resident of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], where he was engaged in the commission and feed business, his wife being a practicing physician.  He had many friends and acquaintances in this village, and also in Burlington [Otsego Co. NY], where he resided previous to his removing to Oneonta.

Friday, December 1, 2023

Wicked in Chenango County, NY, Shooting of Lizzie Booz (1895)

 Shot His Paramour!

Morning Sun, Norwich, NY, July 9, 1895

At 7:25 last evening Joshua W. Chamberlain fatally shot his paramour Lizzie Booz in the neck and abdomen.  He then turned his weapon upon himself, the bullet taking effect in the brain and killing him instantly.  The woman is still alive.  The crime occurred in front of the residence of Mrs. Julia Casey, a house located upon the street which runs south from Piano Street to Hickory Street.

The Crime

William Sweenburg, an employee of H.G. Parsons, lives at No. 18 Hickory Street, about ten rods distant from the residence of Mrs. Casey.  After tea, Sweenburg and his son John, were in front of their house for some three quarters of an hour and during that time noticed Chamberlain and Lizzie Booz talking in front of Mrs. Casey's, where she boarded.  Suddenly they saw Chamberlain seize the woman by the shoulder, draw a revolver and fire directly at her.  She screamed, staggered away and as she fell, he fired again.  Instantly Chamberlain turned the weapon toward his head and shot himself in the mouth.  When Sweenburg arrived, Lizzie Booz lay writhing on her face while the murderer was already stark in death.  Timothy Galvin who was in Mrs. Casey's house at the time rushed up town and notified the police.

Judge Albert F. Gladding and William Merrifield were the first to arrive and at once took measures to assist Miss Booz.  After partly staunching the blood which flowed from a wound in her neck, they procured a couch and carried the victim into the house.  Meanwhile the coroner, T.B. Fernalld and Dr. W.H. Stuart had come and by their orders, Chamberlain's body was brought into a front room in the same house.  Outside a great crowd had gathered and with the exception of the physicians, three or four prominent citizens and a Sun reporter, admittance was refused to all.  The first care, of course, was directed to Miss Booz.  She was muttering faintly, and her limbs twitched convulsively.  Her clothes were partly removed, and two bullet wounds were discovered.  The first and most dangerous was in the left side of the neck and extended up and backward. The bullet lodged in the skull and evidently cut a vein or artery.  The other wound was on the right side of the lower abdomen and extended downward toward the leg. The woman's vitality was wonderful and though the physicians thought she would die almost instantly, their skillful work and liberal use of stimulants revived her so that she could be carried to a bed.  There after half an hour she recovered consciousness and hope was entertained of her recovery.  But she soon sank again.

Meantime in the front room in a thin stream of blood trickling on the floor lay Chamberlin, the murderer.  A short investigation proved him dead and apparently the shot had taken effect in the right eye, but it turned out, however, when a more thorough examination was made, that he had shot himself in the mouth and the blood had oozed out from the eye socket.  Coroner Fernalld then removed from the person of the murderer his belongings.  They consisted of the revolver, a five-shot, bulldog, 32-calibre, with two chambers full and three empty; two half pint bottles, one empty, the other nearly full of brandy, four dollars and thirty-five cents in change and a notebook. The body was then removed to Breese's undertaking rooms, where a coroner's jury was summoned, consisting of the following men:  Silas Berry, foreman, Whitman Stratton, Fred Weiler, George Aldrich, S.A. Jones, Ira Wightman, Joseph Winsor, E.A. Lally and Edward Steele.  After viewing the body, the inquest was adjourned until 10 o'clock in the forenoon of today at the American Hotel.

The Circumstances of the Case

So few persons were eyewitnesses of the tragedy and those who did were so shocked and alarmed that it was difficult to learn the exact details.  Mrs. Casey said that the woman came to board with her about two weeks ago and that she was in evident fear of Chamberlain.  Sunday night, she said Chamberlain met Lizzie at the house and had a long talk with her in an attempt to induce her to come back to live with him.  That last night, supper was a little late, about half past six, and just before it was served Chamberlian called Lizzie out to the front door, where they talked so long that she called out to Miss Booz to call Chamberlain inside as supper was ready.  Almost immediately afterwards she heard a shot and saw Lizzie trying to crawl into the door.  Jerome B. Lewis told a reporter that Sunday night Chamberlain spoke to him in the National hotel; told him he was going to leave town and tried to hire Lewis to shadow her during his absence.  It is known that Chamberlian and his mistress lived on bad terms much of the time.  She hated and feared him and often deserted him for other lovers.  Mad jealousy is undoubtedly the impulse which prompted him to his double crime.

The Woman

Lizzie Booz first came to Norwich about two years ago as a cigar maker and working in different manufactories at her trade.  She was a good worker and made plenty of money.  Shortly after, Chamberlain appeared and the woman often told her friends that he followed her first from Philadelphia to Oneonta and then from there to here.  She also often said that she hated her "husband" because they quarreled and fought continually, and only lived with him through fear.  Later, in a lawsuit, both of them swore that they were married to one another, but this is false unless a common law marriage could be assumed.  She did most of the work and earned most of the money, and even when not living with Chamberlian, is said to have given him much of her earning.  It is said that Miss Booz has cousins in Oneonta in the cigar business who are persons of worth and respectability.

In appearance Lizie Booz is a fine looking, well-formed blonde, apparently about 25-to-30-years of age. She dresses stylishly but quietly and is of modest demeanor and is popular with her fellow workmen.

The Man

J.W. Chamberlain came to Norwich from Oneonta about two years ago and for a time worked as bartender for George H. Smith in the Central Hotel.  Later he was employed in the same capacity in the Eagle and National, and part of the time he did not work at all.  The Booz woman alias Mrs. Chamberlain worked at the cigarmaker's trade, and the two during last summer boarded at the National and later at the Eagle, she paying the hotel bills when he was out of work or had not sufficient funds to meet them.  During this time, it is said a quarrel ensued about once in a fortnight between the two, after which they would appear upon the street apparently as loving as ever, sometimes one, sometimes the other wearing an eye shaded in deep mourning as a result of the fracas.

During the present summer, Chamberlain has been working for C.H. Beasley upon the farm of J.D. Reed, just north of the village and the woman had taken her meals and roomed there, driving back and forth at morning, noon and night in a carriage.  About two weeks ago, the two had another serious brawl and she left him again, never to return, so she said, and since then has been boarding at the home of Mrs. Casey, where the tragedy occurred. Chamberlain gave up his job on the Beasley farm last week and sold his horse to J. Wiley Case, saying that he proposed to go to Philadelphia, where he has a wealthy brother, a doctor at 825 Columbia Avenue, and remain.  He went away but returned again and has since stopped at the National.  Landlord Case thought he acted strangely yesterday.  He appeared nervous and did not eat any supper but said he would return to the hotel to room.  During the afternoon he borrowed the revolver with which the crime was committed of Lysander Brooks, the gunsmith.

Chamberlain was a man of good appearance and always well dressed, but unpopular.  He never drank to any extent except when undergoing one of these fights with his mistress.  He was about 35 years of age.

Later:  2:30 A.M.

Lizzie Booz has recovered consciousness and rallied wonderfully. She showed good pluck and asked her nurses if she could recover. She also inquired after Chamberlian and seemed relieved to hear he was dead.

The physicians now say the neck wound is not fatal and if the lower shot did not pierce the abdominal cavity, she may survive.

She Still Lives

Morning Sun, Norwich, NY, July 10, 1895

The terrible double crime of Monday evening was the absorbing topic of conversation in Norwich yesterday.  Public opinion ran strongly in favor of Miss Booz and the universal expression was voiced in the hope that she would recover. A singular feature of the case was that not a word was uttered in favor of Chamberlain, the suicide.  His bullying methods and ugly temper seems to have left him with few friends in Norwich.

Miss Booz was resting quietly last evening and as The Sun prophesied yesterday, unless the bullet which struck her in the body, pierced the abdominal cavity she has a good chance of recovery.  Her vitality is remarkable, and her courage will go far in helping her to recover.

At 10 a.m. yesterday the coroner's jury met at the American hotel.  Mr. Sweenburg was first sworn and detailed his version of the shooting, substantially as detailed in The Sun of yesterday.  Timothy Galvin testified that he was in Mrs. Casey's house, repairing a stove grate just before the shooting.  He heard a shot fired and ran to the door; then he heard the second report and as he looked out, he saw Lizzie Booz on the ground.  He ran up town and notified the recorder.  Miss Booz had previously told him she was in fear of her life from Chamberlain and had gone down to Mrs. Casey's to escape from him.

Mrs. Emma Taylor, who lives opposite the Casey house, saw Chamberlain and Miss Booz talking in front of the house for about half an hour.  She detailed the shooting as told by the previous witnesses.

Lysander Brooks swore that he knew Chamberlain by sight and on the 8th of July let a revolver to him.  He said he was going to travel on the road and would have need of one.

Maggie Casey swore that she lived in the same house at which Lizzie Booz boarded.  That last Sunday Chamberlain came to the house and tried to induce Lizzie to come and live with him, but she refused.  She next saw Chamberlain Monday night, when he called Lizzie out during supper.  She noticed no loud talk until the shots were fired.  This happened shortly before 8 p.m.  She ran out and found Miss Booz on the ground. Then Miss Booz walked toward the kitchen door and fell.  Miss Booz had often told her about her family troubles and said Chamberlian had threatened her life on several occasions.

Charles Ford saw Miss Booz lying on the ground and then ran for a doctor.

Lena Sweenburg also saw Miss Booz fall and heard her cry out.

The jury decided that J.W Chamberlain came to his death by a pistol shot wound inflicted by his own hand on the 8th of July 1895.

In response to a telegram from the coroner, Dr. Chamberlain of Philadelphia telegraphed yesterday morning:  "Are you sure of what you dispatch me?  Please answer giving particulars and I will come at once."  Later he wired to have the undertaker embalm the body.  At 8:55 p.m. last evening Dr. Chamberlain telegraphed:  "I will be there early in the morning."

At a late hour last night Dr. W.H. Stuart, the attending physician, told a Sun reporter that the wounded woman was resting comfortably and her chances of recovery becoming more favorable.  She has  a mother, Mrs. Kate Booz and a married brother Jacob Booz living at Trumbanersville, Pa.  She does not wish them notified of the tragedy unless she dies, as her mother is aged, and an invalid and Miss Booz fears the shock would be too great.

It is evident that both parties to the tragedy were of respectable families and this but adds to the horror of the affair.  Truly a life of sin cannot prosper.

Lizzie Booz Dead

Last Chapter of the Sensational Shooting Tragedy of July 8

Morning Sun, Norwich, NY, September 9, 1895

Lizzie Booz died at the residence of Mrs. Julia Casey on Pill Street at 10 A.M. yesterday, aged 24 years. Death was caused by pistol wounds inflicted by Joshua W. Chamberlain on the evening of July 8.

Everyone in Norwich remembers the excitement of the evening of July 8, when Chamberlian went to the boarding place of Miss Booz, his paramour, and after shooting her twice with a 32 calibre revolver, ended his own life by sending a bullet from the same weapon into his brain.  Chamberlain died instantly and Miss Booz's injuries were of such an alarming nature that it was surmised that she could live but a few hours.  One of the bullets had lodged in the neck and another in the thigh, having entered the lower part of the abdomen and taking a downward course.

Since the day of the tragedy Miss Booz has been confined to her former boarding place and has received the best of attention from Mrs. Casey and Cigarmaker's Union No. 125 of this village, of which she was a member, and under the medical care of W.H. Stuart, who has had wide experience in treating such injuries, had constantly improved until about a month ago, when by overexerting herself, an artery in the upper part of the thigh gave way and she has since been unable to leave her bed. The bursting of the artery caused an internal hemorrhage.  Death was due to exhaustion probably induced by blood poisoning.  An autopsy will be held this morning at Breese's undertaking establishment.

The relatives of Miss Booz in Lancaster County, Pa. have been informed of her death and the remains will probably be removed there for interment.

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

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 17, 1877

Marriages

LATIMER - LEACH:  In Detroit, Mich., May 5th, by Rev. Mr. Pardington, Mr. Sperry Latimer to Miss Jennie B. Leach, daughter of Nehemiah Leach, Esq., both formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

JOHNSON - HARRINGTON:  In Saratoga [Saratoga Co. NY], May 8th, by Rev. W.H. Hughes, assisted by Rev. H.C. Sexton, Mr. John Johnson of Troy [Rensselaer Co. NY], formerly of this village [Norwich Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Emma J. Harrington, of Saratoga.

Deaths

SHAW:  In this village [Chenango Co. NY], May 15th, Mrs. Rachel M. Shaw, aged 41 years.

GRAY:  In Oxford [Chenango Col. NY], May 6th, Mr. John Gray, aged 82 years.

BARTOO:  In Brisbin [Chenango Co. NY], May 6th, Solon W. [Bartoo] son of Eli Bartoo aged 11 years and 8 months.

YORK:  In Wayzata, Minn., April 29th, of consumption, Mr. Theron L. York, aged 29 years.,

HARRINGTON:  In Philadelphia, April 22d, very suddenly, Mr. P.J. Harrington, formerly of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] in the 42d year of his age.  His remains were taken to Detroit, his home, for burial.  Deceased was a brother of Mrs. N. Leach, of Preston [Chenango Co. NY] and Mrs. William Brown of this place [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

HAIGHT: New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY:  Mrs. B.J. Haight died quite suddenly on Monday last.

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Awful Tragedy at Little York

One of the most awful tragedies ever occurring in this part of the State was witnessed yesterday morning at Little York, Cortland County [NY] a station on the Syracuse to Binghamton Railroad, about fifty miles north of this city.

The depot building, a story and a half structure, was in charge of Frank Dunnigan, a trackman, who lived in a part of it with his family.  Dunnigan started a fire in the stove downstairs yesterday morning between five and six o'clock and then went to the barn, across two tracks, his wife accompanying him.  Their children, five in number, were left asleep in the upper story.

They had been at the barn but a few minutes before they discovered that the upper portion of the depot was in flames.  Both rushed to the building and attempted to go upstairs and rescue the children, but the flames had gained such headway that they were obliged to retreat.  Mrs. Dunnigan was severely burned in the face, and it is reported that her husband was obliged to hold her back to prevent her from perishing with the children in a hopeless endeavor to save their lives.  Where they stood, they could hear the little ones calling for help and the situation was heart rending in the extreme.

At about half-past eight o'clock yesterday morning, when the passenger train from Syracuse passed Little York, the depot had burned down, and the bodies of four of the children, shockingly burned, had been removed from the ruins. The eldest of the five was but eight or nine years of age.  Binghamton Times, 16th.

News Item

Pardoned:  Among the list of persons who, having been convicted of crime, have been pardoned by Governor Robinson since he has been in the gubernatorial chair, we find the following:

Asel Sweet, Chenango County, bigamy, three years.

Edward W. Gage, Otsego County, receiving stolen goods, three years.

George E Warner, Cortland County, grand larceny, four years.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, May 16, 1877

Death

COBB:  In Jamestown, Chautauqua Co. N.Y., April 30, 1877, of dropsy of the heart, Eddie B. [Cobb] oldest son of Marvin W. and Mary F. Cobb and grandson of Joseph and Hannah Reid aged 7 years, 10 months and 23 days.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, May 19, 1877

Marriages

STEWARD - SKINNER:  At the home of the bride, May 16th, by Rev. J.H. Barnard, Mr. Marvin Steward and Mrs. Mary A. Skinner, both of Plymouth, Chenango Co. N.Y.

THOMPSON - DALRYMPLE:  At the residence of the bride's father, C.C. Dalrymple, Esq., May 15th, by Rev. Frank Harris, Mr. Milton Thompson to Miss Ella V. Dalrymple, both of Otselic [Chenango Co. NY]

Death

By a dispatch received in this village on Thursday morning we are informed of the death of John A. Gladding, which occurred in Albany on Wednesday evening.  Mr. Gladding was at the time of his death proprietor of the City Hotel at Albany.  For years he has been well and favorably known in this connection, having kept a hotel st West Troy [Rensselaer Co. NY], and other places.  He was well-known in this village where he has often officiated in the same capacity.  He was a genial whole souled gentleman, and though he has been for years in poor health he always bore up bravely under it and was proverbial for his pleasant cheerful disposition, which ever made him a pleasant and attractive host.  John was a younger brother of Mr. James O. Gladding, of Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY] and uncle of A.F. Gladding, Esq., and Mrs. Silas R. Hill, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].  His annual return visits will be missed by his many friends in this county, and all will regret his decease.  His age was fifty-four.  Mr. Gladding and Mrs. Hill left for Albany on Thursday evening to attend his funeral.

Thursday, November 30, 2023

Vital Records, Otsego Co. NY, May 1877 (continued)

 Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, May 10, 1877

Marriages

On Monday, May 7th, at Christ Church Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY], by Rev. Wm. W. Lord, D.D., Hon. Miles C. Comstock, of Utica, N.Y. [Oneida Co.] and Helen Marnorth [Parshall], daughter of Clark D. Parshall, of Middlefield, N.Y. [Otsego Co.].

At the home of the bride, in Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY], May 2d, by Rev. W.W. Lord, D.D., Albert Gorringe of Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] and Miss Emmer D. Gates, of the former place.

It came to the knowledge of some of the friends of Doct. and Mrs. Lathrop that the 25th anniversary of their wedding occurred on Sunday last, and the next evening a number called to tender their congratulations.  Among the very pretty and appropriate presents shown, which reflected the kindly wishes and sincere friendship of the donors, was one from the Teachers of the Union School which must have been specially prized and not mainly because of its beauty and intrinsic value.  It was a solid silver vase of elegant design and fine workmanship from the store of C.R. Burch, as were also several other of the handsome articles presented our friends on this occasion.  It was presented in a neat speech by Prof Wight.  May they live to celebrate their Golden Wedding and still enjoy health and prosperity.

Deaths

In Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY], April 20, Abram Fling in the 76th year of his age.  Mr. F. was perhaps the oldest native of that town, having been born and always lived upon the farm where he died.  He was a member of the methodist Church, and a citizen much esteemed by those who knew him.  He leaves a widow and eight children.

At Toddsville [Otsego Co. NY], May 5th, 1877, Mrs. De Ette [Finch, aged 36 years.

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], May 6th, Ellen Flansburgh in the 70th year of her age.

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In the town of Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY], May 5th, 1877, Jacob Van Nort, of this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], aged 48 years.

On Friday last, P. Curran of Troy, who had been engaged for a short time in selling crockery at auction in this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], hired Jacob Van  Nort and Mr. Gray, teamsters, to take him and a quantity of his goods to Cherry Valley.  Mr. C. rode with Van Nort, both sitting on a box which had been placed on top of some barrels.  When near the Stanley school house, about three miles from Cherry Valley, on the top of the hill, the wagon was jarred on passing over a ditch in the road. The box on which the two men sat gave way and both fell directly in front of the heavily loaded vehicle.  The forward wheel passed over the body of Van Nort, inflicting internal injuries from which he died the next day.  It is a question whether the severe injuries received by Curran, and which were at first thought to be fatal were inflicted wholly by being struck by a crate of crockery which fell from the wagon, or whether he too was run over.

Mr. Gray immediately hastened to the assistance of the injured men, and it was some time before either exhibited signs of life.  After a while he succeeded in getting them to the house of William Graham, living near, where they were kindly cared for and Dr. J. M. Stereker was soon in attendance.

When the news of the fatal accident was received in this village, it produced a deep impression of sadness and regret.  Mr. Van Nort was a hard-working man, who had many friends in the village.  For his wife and two children much sympathy is felt in their severe affliction.

On Saturday it was reported that Mr. Curran was also dead; but the latest intelligence from him is to the effect that he is slowly improving though severely hurt.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, May 9, 1877

Death

April 30:  In South Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY], of pneumonia, Chander Taylor in the 79th year of his age.

Oneonta Herald & Democrat, Oneonta, NY, May 11, 1877

Marriages

In Worcester [Otsego Co. NY], May 1, by Rev. T. Simpkins, Christopher C. Mooney and Lucy E. Ridge, all of Worcester.

In Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY], at the home of the bride's parents, April 30, by Rev. Mr. Lord, D.D. Frank D. Page of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] and Miss Ella J. Smith.

In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], April 30, by Rev. E.C. Hardman, Wesley R. Dexter of Otego [Otsego Co. NY] and Miss Belle Wocraft of Unadilla.

At the M.E. Parsonage at Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. W.M. Hiller, April 28, Wm. Ousterhout and Miss Mary Beams, both of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY].

At the home of this bride, in Milford [Otsego Co. NY], May 2 by Rev. E.R. Keith, Charles Houghtaling of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] and Miss Sarah J. Platt.

Deaths

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY], April 29, Ellen ]Wyman], wife of William Wyman.

In Delhi [Delaware Co. NY], Sunday evening May 6, Geo. W. Clark Esq., aged 55 years.

In Davenport [Delaware Co. NY], March 26, Mrs. Nancy [Reynolds] wife of H.G. Reynolds, aged 53 years.

In South Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY], April 20, of pneumonia, Chandler Taylor in the 79th year of his age.

In Richfield Springs [Otsego Co. NY] May 1, Mr. Timothy Green aged 66 years.

Near Worcester [Otsego Co. NY], may 3, Mrs. Phebe Bently, relict of Geo. Bently, aged 61 years.

In Salt Springville, in the town of Springfield [Otsego Co. NY], Jacob Brown, aged 92 years.

In Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY], May 6th, Ellen Flansburgh in the 70th year of her age.

In New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY], May 4, Lyman Gregory.

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In Tioga, Pa., April 20, Mrs. Emma A. Strait wife of G.E. Strait and daughter of Isaac and Caroline Morrell of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], aged 22.

And she hath passed in beauty from the day, / Torn in her sweetness from the parent's spray; / Too kind and affectionate on earth to stay, / The death wind swept her from home away.

The death, to her parents was hard to meet, / Though they trust in heaven she's found a seat; / While with the angels she'll be blessed; / God's will is done, and she's at rest.

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There is only one soldier's grave in the vicinity of Cobleskill [Schoharie Co. NY] - that of Lieut. Geo. W. Snyder, whose remains are to be removed from Warrenville to Cobleskill.  Post G.W. Snyder will duly honor and decorate his grave on Decoration Day.  This will be the first observance of that occasion in Schoharie County. The firemen will also parade and decorate the graves of their comrades.

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

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

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 10, 1877

Deaths

In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], April 18, Mrs. Laura [Chalker], wife of Hiram Chalker, aged 35 years, sister of Geo. A. Chamberlain of this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].

In Brisben [Chenango Co. NY], May 6, Solon W. Barton, son of Eli Barton aged 11 years and 8 months.

In Washington, D.C.   April 25, Miss Maria C. Page, daughter of the late Jared Page of this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].

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This village was startled last Monday forenoon by the news that Mr. F. Martin, father of Mrs. F.D. Fox, had suddenly died.  The deceased had complained more or less of feeling unwell since February, though three or four weeks ago he went on a journey to Ohio, returning on Friday last, and even on the morning of his death he ate his breakfast and went up to the drug store, where he remained for some time.  He spoke of a pain in his stomach several times during the forenoon, and about ten o'clock he went to his room at Mr. Erastus Burghardt's where he shortly after expired.  The physician states that heart disease was the cause of his death.

Mr. Martin was about 67 years of age.  He resided during the most of his lifetime at Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], but in the Fall of 1875 he and his wife removed to this village [Lisle, Broome Co. NY], boarding with their daughter.  Though living but a short time comparatively among us, he had won many friends by his genial pleasant manner, and his loss will be sadly felt by those who had become acquainted with him.  Lisle Gleaner, May 2

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, March 12, 1877

Death

FRENCH:  Near North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], in the town of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], on Saturday, May 5th, 1877, of congestion of the lungs, Charles R. [French] youngest son of Rial W. and Mary French, aged nearly six years and six months.

Although taken from the sight of his parents, it will be a comfort to them to remember that he has passed to a happier place than he could have found on earth.  Where no more trouble will ever touch him, and that he is in the sight of the same merciful Saviour who said:  "Suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not, for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven."

MARVIN:  Richard Marvin, a member of the gallant 114th Regiment, departed this life on Thursday of last week, after a long and painful illness.  His remains were followed to the grave on Saturday by a number of his old comrades of the above-named regiment.  American

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, May 10, 1877

Marriages

Mr. and Mrs. Alanson Bingham celebrated their fiftieth anniversary, or golden wedding, on Thursday last.  The children, five in number, were all present, and a very enjoyable time had. Tears of joy and gratitude filled the eyes of all as they once more gathered around the board bountifully spread, that death had spared every one of them and that the family circle was still unbroken.

Miss Ella Marsh, formerly of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] and daughter of Geo. L. Marsh, was by Rev. H.G. Harned married to Mr. Zach Cable on the 6th inst.  May her life be a happy one.

Deaths

One of the saddest cases of sickness and destitution it has ever been out lot to record, says the Deposit Courier, has come to our knowledge the past week, and is now interesting a number of our people who are ever ready to assist the unfortunate.

Last Sunday, Dr. B.E. Radeker was called to attend the family of Homer Westfall, living about four miles north of this village [Deposit, Delaware Co. NY] on the Sanford Road, the locality being known as Loomis' Hill.  He found several children, ranging from one and a half to thirteen years old, together with the mother, all sick with that dread disease, diptheria.  They were all huddled together in a small room without care, insufficiently clothed, and with only two beds. The poor children were lying about the room, on the beds, on chairs, and on the floor, and presented a scene of the most fearful description. The place was unwholesome in the extreme, their clothing meagre, and their sufferings intense. The Doctor saw at once that nothing could be done for the sufferers until they were removed from the condition of filth in which he found them, provided with fresh clothing and proper care.  He accordingly came back to the village, and after calling on a number of people for aid procured sufficient clothing to help them for the present at least.  He then, with the assistance of Mr. H.T. Smith, Overseer of the Poor, went on Thursday, and with the aid of carpenters, put up a temporary house to which they could be removed. This was completed Thursday evening, but so late that the family could not be moved until the next day.  Friday morning the eldest child died, and the condition of two others was considered hopeless.  Mr. Westfall who up to this time had escaped the disease and had been the only one, with the exception of the doctor, to take care of the family, was taken sick.  It has been impossible to employ anyone to go to the place and nurse the sufferers, though diligent search has been made and abundant pay has been offered.  It is impossible to imagine anything worse than this.  Sickness of an entire family with a dangerous and fearful disease -- one that in its treatment requires promptness, the best of care and the utmost cleanliness -- coupled with abject poverty, uncleanness and helplessness, is one that should excite the sympathy of everyone.  It is to be hoped that the measures on foot for their relief will be successful. Dr. Radeker, who is himself suffering with a severe cold, has been constant in his attention, doing everything in his power, almost unaided, for their relief.

Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Historical Sketch, Settlement of New Berlin, Chenango County, NY

 Historical Sketch - Settlement of the town of New Berlin

by John Hyde

New Berlin Gazette, New Berlin, NY, April 7, 1877

Augustus O. Welch occupied a conspicuous place among the people in the early settlement of New Berlin.  He was in the employment of nail making in a shop on the north bank of the village creek, between the creek and Morgan's Store, where he manufactured nails, shaping and heading them by hand, a slow but profitable business, there being a ready sale at remunerative prices for all of which he could make at hand labor to supply the wants of the settlers, who began to exchange their old log cabins into more commodious dwellings.  But Yankee ingenuity finally invented machinery for making nails by a more expeditious method which took the place of hand labor.  Mr. Welch then changed his business of a nailer and became a merchant and an innkeeper.  He purchased the tavern house on the corner now [in 1877] occupied by Gaskin.  At that time it was a small building and has since been increased by subsequent owners to its present size, and he built a store west of his tavern and during the most active period of his life, he carried on the mercantile business and the business of tavern keeper at that place.  He purchased the building lot and built the house now owned [in 1877] and occupied by J.T. White, where he lived the remainder of his life. The part of the building now occupied [in 1877] by the bank he used for a store awhile, then purchased the premises on the corner, formerly owned by L. Blakeslee, and tore down the old Blakeslee store and built the present store now occupied [in 1877] by Fuller, Ball & Co., where he traded until his last sickness, the better part of the time in company with John T. White, now cashier of the New Berlin Bank, who had been his clerk.  Mr. Welch had the reputation of being a prudent, careful and fair dealer in his mercantile business and he and his wife were respected and esteemed in society.  In official civil service he occupied at different times the office of Justice of the Peace, Town Clerk, Supervisor, Member of Assembly, and Sheriff.  In military service he passed through different grades from a private soldier up to the rank of a Brigadier General.

Charles Medbury, an enterprising emigrant took an active part in aid of New Berlin's early settlement.  By trade he was a cooper, the making of barrels.  His dwelling house was on the south side of the East village street, an old-fashioned two-story building, in which he resided with his wife, an amiable and much respected woman.  They had a large family of sons and daughters, some of whom live in the neighborhood. Others of the family have located in distant lands and the house is now a deserted mansion, although the title yet remains in the family.  Mr. Medbury had a shop on the premises where he worked at his trade for some years, and a part of the time kept tavern.  He finally built a small store house, and leaving the tavern keeping and barrel making business, commenced the selling of merchandise for a while, then purchased the Van Dyke store and dwelling house on the village South Street and entered into partnership with Ebenezer Bivins and commenced the business of merchandise and selling drugs and medicines.  Mr. Bivins was educated as an apothecary and vender of medicines and had established the business at the Van Dyke store when Medbury made the purchase.  They continued in partnership together until Bivins married and went into mercantile business with his father-in-law, L. Blakeslee.  Medbury & Bivins, while they were in the mercantile and drug business also established a potash concern.  Medbury built an ashery on his lot where now [in 1877] stands the red house opposite the schoolhouse on North Street, and they carried on the making of potash during their connection as partners.

Mr. Medbury, at the time of his decease was the owner of considerable real estate in the village.  Besides his homestead place, he owned the red house lot and several acres on the east side of the street next to the schoolhouse, the Van Dyke property, where he and Bivins traded and the Joel Bancroft farm which he purchased of his son Daniel.  Nearly all of the real estate which he owned at the time of his decease yet remains in the ownership of his children or some of them.  Some of his sons have become wealthy and respected farmers.

In town matters Mr. Medbury was an active participant and successfully held differnet town offices; was Constable, Collector, Justice of the Peace, Supervisor, Deputy Sheriff and Member of Assembly at different periods.  His son Samuel [Medbury] married a daughter of Joseph Moss and built the dwelling house now owned [in 1877] and occupied by George Sage.  He owned the store now occupied by Lull, Sage & Co. and carried on the mercantile business for some time, was postmaster a while, Supervisor one term and finally went West and entered into the lumber business in Michigan's wild extensive pine woods.

Vital Records, Chenango Co. NY, May 1877 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 10, 1877

Marriages

HICKOK - FISHER:  At the residence of Luther M. Pike, brother-in-law of the bride in Danbury, Conn., April 25th, by Rev. A.C. Hubbard, Mr. Frank H. Hickok of Norwich, N.Y. [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Jennie R. Fisher of Danbury.

POWERS - COMPTON:  At the M.E. Parsonage, Chenango Forks [Broome Co. NY], May 2d, by Rev. G.A. Place, Mr. William Powers of North Fenton [Broome Co. NY], and Sarah E. Compton of North Fenton, formerly of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

FOSTER:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], May 7th, Mr. John Foster, aged 67 years.  His remains were taken to Truxton [Cortland Co. NY] for burial.

LOINGBECK:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], May 6th, Emma J. Loingbeck aged 25 years, daughter of George F. Brown.

COWAN:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], May 3d, Florence A. [Cowan] only daughter of E.A. and Teresa M. Cowan, aged 18 years and 5 months.

REDFIELD:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], April 25th, Mr. Henry Redfield

MATHEWSON:  In New Berlin Centre [Chenango Co. NY], April 17th, Jason E. [Mathewson] only child of Clarence and Henrietta Mathewson, aged 8 months and 17 days.

THOMPSON:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY], April 28th, Mrs. Henrietta Thompson, aged 72 years.

________________________

 BISHOP:  At the residence of her son, William H. Bishop in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], May 5th, Mrs. Lodema Hawley Bishop, widow of Lyman Bishop, aged 74 years.

Deceased was born in Morris, Otsego County [NY], where she resided until the death of her husband, which occurred some twenty-five years ago.  Soon after she removed with her children to this village, which has since been her home.  For the past twelve years, she has been an invalid, and for a long time previous to her death, she was helpless.  Her home was with her son, William H. Bishop, and throughout her life, and in her declining years, she received the untiring care of her children, and every attention which affection could suggest of filial love dictate, was cheerfully bestowed upon her.  She was possessed of an amiable disposition, and quietly fulfilled her mission as a Christian wife and mother, until called to her reward, her departure being mourned by the family circle, with whom many friends sympathize in their bereavement.

Funeral services were held at her late residence, on Monday afternoon last, which were attended by a large number of our citizens, and the exercises were conducted by Rev. D.E. Loveridge, of Emmanuel Church.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, May 9, 1877

Marriage

Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY] has had a wedding in town since our last writing.  B.F. Greenman of East Hebron, Penn., to Miss Emily A. Preston of Lincklaen.  How queer it is that our young men will let Pennsylvania chaps come up here and gobble up our fairest gals, but such is the case, and we will make the best of it.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, May 12, 1877

Deaths

BRADLEY:  Greene, Chenango Co. NY:  Mrs. Sally Bradley died on Friday, May 4, at the house of her son, Daniel D. Bradley, at the advanced age of 88 years. She had resided in this town for the past 50 years.

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TALLETT:  Otselic [Chenango Co. NY]:  A precious little boy [sic] about a month old, son of Merton and Minerva Tallett was buried on Saturday, 20th inst. [Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, Jan. 24, 1877, this is concluded to be the death notice for Belle May Tallett.]

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. [Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, Mar. 22, 1877]

____________________________

In Memoriam:  Lines to the memory of Bell May [Tallett] and L. Jay [Tallett] only children of Mr. and Mrs. Merton Tallett, who of late died, leaving home desolate:

Two beautiful cherubs flitted / Within our happy home. / We clasped them in our loving arms / Such joy--they were our own.

But the days were few and fleeting / That they tarried with us here. / For the angels bore them home / To a bright and happier sphere.

Too sweet a flower to blossom, / Was our lovely little May. / Christ claimed our precious treasure, / She gently passed away.

But hard to say, "Thy will be done," / When death repeats his call. / And bears away from our embrace / Our last fond hope--our all.

We clip form the brow one sunny tress / One curl from the little head.  / Give the cold clay one last caress / Oh, our darling boy is dead.

Take off the little shoes, half worn, / And put them out of sight / Lay off the garments soiled and torn, / For raiment pure and white.

O, we shall miss our loved one / The pattering feet at play. / His whip and sled and empty crib, / All speak of little Jay.

How oft with arms extended wide, / And lips upraised to kiss, / He runs to greet his papa's coming / With heart so full of bliss.

Tis true, death no more can place / His signet on their brow. / Our two sweet infant babes / In heaven are happy now.

Our earth air was for them too cold, / Its chill they could not bear. / But in our Father's chosen fold / They know no fading there.

And we all shall meet again / When the toils of life are o'er, / Around our Father's throne / Where we shall part no more.

Otselic Centre, March 20th, 1877

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, May 9, 1877

Deaths

SYMONDS:  In Franklin, N.J., April 30th, Lillie Belle Symonds, daughter of George W. and Fannie E. Symonds, aged 1 year 8 months and 8 days.

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STEVENS:  In Fort Wayne, Ind., April 28th, Sophia [Stevens], wife of Rufus L. Stevens, aged 49 years, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

Mrs. Stevens was born and married in Oxford, Chenango Co., N.Y., but for 14 years has resided in this city [Fort Wayne].  She was a woman of rare, good sense and loveliness of character.  She was gentle, kind, charitable, conscientious and withal an earnest Christian.  Domestic in her habits, industrious, frugal and cheerful, her home was ever sunny, happy, blest.  Her husband, sister and other family friends mourn their great loss most deeply, but their memories of her are pleasant beyond expression while they are assured that for her "To die is gain."

Mrs. Stevens had been an invalid for many years and for two or three years a frequent sufferer, but always patient, hopeful and cheerful, even though she had come to look upon her end as approaching, she had no fears.  She sleeps in Jesus!

The funeral services took place at the Baptist church, where for ten or twelve years past it was her delight to be found, a careful hearer, a devout worshipper.  Ft. Wayne Daily News

Monday, November 27, 2023

Vital Records, Otsego Co. NY, May 1877

 Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, May 3, 1877

Deaths

At Carr's Hotel in this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], on the 28th ult., Charles W. Hawley,  aged 47 years.

Mr. H. came to Cooperstown in October last, then evidently in consumption, and he gradually failed in strength until he died on Saturday morning.  He was a very patient and uncomplaining sufferer all through his sickness, coming to the general table as long as his strength permitted and was pleasant and agreeable to those with whom he formed an acquaintance.  Mr. Hawley was born in Canandaigua, in this State [Ontario Co. NY], and lived for many years in Milwaukee, which place he called his home.  He had been for some years a resident of Florida and came from there to this village.  He was educated as a lawyer.  A man peculiar in his habits and reticent to all but intimate friends, he won the respect of those who came into intercourse with him, by his genial manners and intelligent conversation.

He was attended in his last hours by his son and only brother.  His remains were taken to Milwaukee and then to Nashotah, Wisconsin, to rest by his wife, with whom he wandered in past times about those sweet waters that he loved so well.

_____________________________

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], April 26th, Owen Kinney, aged 55 years.  He came to this country 27 years ago and was all of that time a resident of Cooperstown.  he leaves a wife and six children.

In South Worcester [Otsego Co. NY], April 21st, John J. [Baldwin] aged 23 years and 7 months.

In Decatur [Otsego Co. NY], April 21st, Jacob Brown, aged 91 years, 4 months, 21 days.

Lindine, Juneau Co. Wisconsin, April 9th, Agnes Robinson, wife of Dea. C. Robinson and daughter of Robert Searle, formerly of Burlington, N.Y. [Otsego Co. NY].

In the town of Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY], April 29th, Ann E. Gifford daughter of Nathan'l Gifford, aged 14 years 2 months and 22 days.

In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], April 16th, 1877, Mrs. Catharine Hunt,  aged 81 years.

In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], April 20th, Mrs. S.H. Fancher, aged 66 years.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, May 2, 1877

Deaths

April 25:  In Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY], Elizabeth [Taylor] only child of Robert and Margaret Taylor, aged 2 years and 8 months.

April 11:  In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], David Fuller, aged 49 years.

Oneonta Herald & Democrat, Oneonta, NY, May 4, 1877

Marriages

In Tipton, Iowa, April 21, at the M.E. parsonage, by Rev. S.A. Lee, Samuel S. Shepherd, formerly of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], ad Miss Kate Van Keusen of Middletown, Delaware County [NY].

In Worcester [Otsego Co. NY], April 21, Ansel C. Bently and Viola C. Griggs all of Worcester.

At the Baptist Parsonage in Franklin [Delaware Co. NY], April 25, by Rev. L. Smith, Hiram Fritts of North Franklin and Mary Earl of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

At Wells Bridge [Otsego Co. NY], April 22, Alanson Brown, aged 87 years.

In Deposit [Delaware Co. NY], April 21, Mrs. Polly Burrows, aged 73 years.

In Richfield [Otsego Co. NY], April 22, Lula [Colwell], infant daughter of John L. and Martha A. Colwell.

In Hamden [Delaware Co. NY], April 24, A.A. Mayham, aged 47 years.

In Delhi [Delaware Co. NY], April 25, Duncan Dysart  aged about 72 years.

In Schenevus [Otsego Co. NY], April 21, Ida L. [Martin] wife of John Martin aged 20 years and 9 months.

Sunday, November 26, 2023

Wicked in Chenango County, NY, Death of Samuel Robinson (1860)

Horrible Affray!

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, June 27, 1860

 On Monday night of this week, some persons unknown, assaulted the dwelling house occupied by Horace Burlison and his family, situated about a mile east of this village, near the old turnpike gate, bursting in the doors and tearing off the roof from the house.  A man by the name of Samuel Robinson, one of the rioters was shot in the affray by the occupant of the house. The particulars of the affray are not yet known but will be given as soon as ascertained by the coroner's jury which is about being summoned and the matter is undergoing investigation as we go to press.

The Late Homicide in Oxford [Chenango Co. NY]

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, July 4, 1860

The deceased, Samuel Robinson, was a resident of the State of Wisconsin, where he has a mother and two sisters left to mourn his untimely doom.  Deceased came to this state a short time since and at the time of the happening of his death, was working for John S. White who keeps the old Bush stand about a mile east of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY].  Deceased was a sober, industrious young man of good habits, but like poor dog Tray, he got into bad company.  The Coroner, Dr. B.S. Sill of Bainbridge held an inquest on the body of the deceased on Tuesday, the 26th ult. and a number of witnesses were sworn in the matter.  It appears from the evidence taken at the inquest by the coroner's jury, that John S. White, Orlando Utter and Samuel Robinson, the deceased, in the night time, on Monday the 25th, ult. having previously blackened their faces and disguising themselves went to the dwelling house occupied by Horace R. Burlison and his family, situated about a mile east of this village, near the old turnpike gate and opening the door of the house, ascended to the chamber floor and commenced tearing the roof off the house, working away with the evident intention of razing the house to the ground.  White using an iron bar, prying and knocking off the roofboards, Robinson had an axe and Utter held a lantern for them to work by. While they were at this work, the occupant of the house, Horace R. Burlison, shot deceased through the body killing him almost immediately. The gun used was loaded with a bullet and forty-two shot.  It appeared on the examination before the coroner that John S White had said the house of prisoner should come down.  It further appeared that prisoner was asked if he could see to take deliberate aim.  He said no, I have shot the wrong man.

It is alleged that Burlison, who is a poor man with a large family and lives from hand to mouth, kept a house of ill fame, which was a nuisance and a pest to the neighborhood. That persons of bad character were in the habit of visiting there.  The coroner's jury brought in their verdict that deceased was murdered by Horace R. Burlison.  After rendition of the verdict by the jury the coroner issued a warrant against Burlison, who was brought before him, by virtue thereof and an examination of the prisoner was held before the coroner the 27th ult., and after hearing the evidence given in the matter and due deliberation thereupon the coroner committed the prisoner to the common jail, there to wait the action of the Grand Jury. The prisoner did not call any witnesses, only cross examining the witnessed produced by the people.

On Friday last in the daytime, the neighbors collected together to the number of about 14 and razed the house to the ground, destroyed the barn, filling up the well, leaving not a vestige to mark the place that once there was a dwelling.  We understand that the 14 have been sued in the Supreme Court in action of trespass and the end is not yet.

Grand Jury Results

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, September 12, 1860

Horace R. Burlison was discharged from custody, the grand jury having failed to indict him for fatally shooting a person who was engaged with others in demolishing his house in Oxford.

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

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, May 2, 1877

Death

SKINNER:  At Stiles, Onondaga Co. [NY], April 18, at the residence of her mother, Mrs. Mary Wormouth, Leonora [Skinner] wife of Geo. W. Skinner of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 3, 1877

Deaths

In Lisle [Broome Co. NY], suddenly, April 30, Mr. Frederick Martin in the 68th year of his age, formerly of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY].

A telegram was received here on Monday announcing the sudden death at Lisle, N.Y of Mr. Frederick Martin, father of A.D. Martin of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].  We understand that Mr. Martin died of disease of the heart.  He formerly resided in Coventry and was an honored and respected citizen.  His funeral will take place at the Congregational Church in Coventry, at 2 o'clock P.M. today (Wednesday).  Mr. Martin died Monday forenoon and the news came to his friends here like a thunderbolt out of a clear sky.

At Whitney's Point [Broome Co. NY] April 22, Frank Hyde Eldridge, only son of col MIlo B. and Alice C. Eldridge, in the sixth year of his age.

Died at Union, Broome County [NY], Mr. James Hayes, aged 70 years.  He was formerly a resident of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] and was well and favorably known in this part of the county.  His remains were consigned to mother earth at Smithville Centre [Chenango Co. NY] on the 26th ult.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, May 5, 1877

Death

SUMNER:  In Hebron, McHenry Co., Ill., April 21, 1877, Mrs. Harriet Ann [Sumner] widow of the late John B. Sumner aged 49 years.

Mrs. Sumner was born in Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] in 1827 and married to John B. Sumner in 1843.  They removed to Illinois about twenty-five years ago.  They travelled by way of the canal to Waukegan and thence took their own conveyance to Hebron where they settled on improved lands and resided until death.  They accumulated a handsome property and were very highly esteemed in the community.  Mrs. Sumner is affectionately remembered by a large circle of friends in this vicinity and her visits were always the occasion of much enjoyment.  She will be long remembered and sincerely mourned. She leaves four children, viz:  John G., Lorenzo, Fernando and Charles.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, May 3, 1877

Marriage

BARTHOLOMEW - MARBLE:  In Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY], April 30, 1877, by C.T. Alverson, Esq., Chauncey Bartholomew of Sidney Plains and Mrs. Conrad Marble of Masonville [Delaware Co. NY].

Deaths

LYON:  In West Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], April 25, 1877, Joel Lyon, aged 61 years.

GORHAM:  In Masonville [Delaware Co. NY], April 27, 1877, Mr. Oscar Gorham, aged 45 years.

Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY]:  The funeral of Oscar Gorham was held at the Congregational Church in this village on Sunday last. The deceased was a good citizen and a worthy member of the Masonic Fraternity.  the Masonville Lodge of which he was a member, conducted the ceremonies and the services, always solemn and impressive, seemed doubly so on this occasion. The procession was composed of members of the Masonville, Unadilla, and Bainbridge lodges, with a few from other lodges and numbered from seventy-five to one hundred persons.  Deceased was 45 years of age and leaves a wife and three children to mourn his loss.  The sermon was delivered by Rev.  Mr. Ripley of Masonville.