Vital Records, Otsego County, NY, June 1877 (continued)

 Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, June 21, 1877

Marriage

At New Hartford, N.Y., June 14th, by Rev. P.D. Root, Rev. J.A. Rich of Unadilla Forks [Otsego Co. NY] to Lottie E. Root, daughter of S.W. Root, formerly of Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], June 15th, 1877, Mrs. Mary Converse, aged 79 years.

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY], June 11th, Deette [Waldby], aged 17 years 7 months and 16 days.

In Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY], June 13th, 1877, of consumption, Daniel C. Wilson aged 40 years.

At West Winfield, N.Y. [Herkimer Co.], June 12, 18877, Mrs. Amanda M. Hardin, mother of judge George A. Hardin, aged 73 years and 10 months.

Not long before he died, the late Mr. Jarvis, closed a contract for a new hearse, which arrived here the week of his death and was first used at his funeral.  

Memoir of Mrs. Sally Pierce

Mrs. Sally Pierce died at the house of Mr. Menzo Bourne, of Fly Creek [Otsego Co. NY], June 7th, 1877, aged 82 years. The township of Otsego [Otsego Co. NY] loses one of the best and most aged citizens, she having been a resident of it for upwards of 60 years.  For the greater part of the time since the death of her husband, which occurred about 14 years ago, she has been living with her son-in-law, Mr. Bourne, whose exemplary devotion to her comfort and happiness called forth her best blessings in the closing hours of her life.  Her excellent qualities as a true neighbor and friend to all, won for her the highest estimation of the vicinity in which she has so long resided.  A characteristic feature of her life, her patience and fidelity to the right will make her memory redolent for many years to come.  As a faithful wife and devoted mother, she served the highest interests of society, and now, with many others of the fathers and mothers of the past sleeping in the silent home of rest, she is held in sacred remembrance and society rises up with her sons and daughters to call her blessed. The attendance at the obsequies of the funeral was very large, evincing the high esteem in which the deceased was held. She was carried to the family burying ground, there to await the resurrection morn, when they that have done good shall come forth "into the resurrection of life."

Oneonta Herald & Democrat, Oneonta, NY, June 22, 1877

Deaths

In Maryland [Otsego Co. NY], June 15, Helen A. [Tubbs], wife of Geo. M. Tubbs, aged 32 years.

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Entered into rest on the 17th day of June, Dr. William Stewart, at his home in South Worcester [Otsego Co. NY].  Dr. Stewart, at the time of his death, was the oldest physician in Otsego Co. [NY], and one of three oldest in the State Medical Society, of which he had been a member for nearly 40 years.  He was born in Worcester in the last year of the 18th century.  His father, General Stewart, came to this country from Scotland when a young man.  Dr. Stewart devoted his time from 18 to 23 to teaching school, when he commenced the study of medicine with the elder Dr. White, of Cherry Valley, who was then the most eminent physician and surgeon in Central New York.  After three years of hard study, he graduated with honors at Fairfield Medical College in 1820 where he was a classmate of the late Dr. Fitch, of Delhi [Delaware co. NY] and commenced the practice of his profession at South Worcester where he has devoted more than half a century to the elevation of his chosen profession and the relief of mankind, during which time he has witnessed the birth, the growth to man's estate of a large and prosperous community; has seen them pass the meridian of life and watched them in their declining years until they passed off the stage of action.  While he was still in the full vigor of life and health, like the mighty forest oak, he has withstood the blasts of almost four score winters.  He was a man of commanding presence, of pleasing address, a close student of fine and scholarly tastes with a mind capable of grasping and mastering the intricacies of his profession.

He married about the age of 38, Hannah Becker, daughter of Lodwick Becker and sister of the late Abraham Becker, Esq., who died seven years after, leaving three small children to the care and education of which the Doctor devoted the remainder of his life, and the rich harvest of love and honor which they bore him in return has been like the rays of a heavenly sunbeam lighting and cheering the pathway of his declining years.

In his religious belief he was a Presbyterian, having united with the Presbyterian Chruch of Worcester nearly sixty years ago, and his later years seemed to be a continual communion with his Saviour and when his daughter asked him if he felt prepared to die, he said with a smile, "I feel as though there was not a cloud between me and my God."  "Yes", he said, "I have fought the good fight.  I have kept the faith. I have finished my course.  Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness."

As a husband, a father and a friend, he was all that could be desired; always dignified, courteous and kind.  His gentle reproofs, his encouraging advice and his noble Christian example will be to the large circle of friends and relatives, who survive him, like so many beacon lights stretched along the shores of time to guide the weary mariner across the river of life and on through the dark valley and shadow of death to that haven of eternal rest which he so joyously and peacefully entered.

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Davenport [Delaware Co. NY]:  The funeral of Mrs. Willis Sherman at the church yesterday was largely attended.  The Rev. Mr. Wright delivered a very pathetic discourse from 1st Samuel, xx, 3, last clause--"But truly as the Lord liveth and as thy soul liveth there is but a step between me and death."  Mr. Wright is also to speak at the funeral of Dr. William Stewart, of South Worcester today at 2 p.m.  Mr. Stewart is the father of the Hon. James Stewart of Oneonta; was considered an able physician during his lifetime and was highly esteemed as a citizen.  His loss will be deeply felt in the community where he has resided for so many years.

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

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, June 20, 1877

Death

HALL:  In East Lynn, Vermillion Co., Ill., June 10th, Lillie May [Hall] only daughter of Anna E. and F. Marion Hall, aged 6 years.

She is not lost, the treasured darling / Has found a fairer, sweeter home, / And evermore we hear her calling, / "Come papa, Mamma, grand-ma, come."

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 21, 1877

Deaths

In Barker [Broome Co. NY], June 7th, Elizabeth [Hayes] in the 75th year of her age.

At West Colesville [Broome Co. NY], June 9th, Mr. Isaac S. Harding in the 72d year of his age.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, June 23, 1877

Marriage

PRATT - HOPKINS:  At Emmanuel Church, in Norwich, on Tuesday, May 8th, 1877, by Rev. D.E. Loveridge, Rector, Mr. George E. Pratt and Miss Flora Hopkins, granddaughter of the late Samuel Hopkins.

Death

We learn that Wm. F. Allen, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], but for some time a resident of this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], died at the residence of J.M. Jenkins, in Grafton, Nebr., about the first of June.   He was a printer by trade and served in the army as a faithful soldier during the war.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, June 21, 1877

Death

A sad affair occurred on the 8th inst. at the lake on Dry Brook, near Griffin's Corner, Delaware Co. [NY].  It appears that John Edward Brown, of Ulster County [NY] in company with one Haynes, went out on the lake in a log canoe for the purpose of trout fishing.  When but a short distance from shore, in about thirty feet of water, the scow turned over, throwing both men out.  Brown went at once to the bottom.  His body was recovered next day.  Haynes was rescued by a bystander.  Brown leaves a wife and five children.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, June 20, 1877

Deaths

June 11:  In Morris [Otsego Co. NY], Miss Mary Ann Folts, aged 64 years.  Sister of Spelman and Thurlow Folts.

June 11:  In Morris [Otsego Co. NY], on the Factory Ground, Mary Ann Salisbury, aged 33 years.

June 2:  In Mount Vision, Polly Brooks, aged 71 years.

June 2:  In Southington, Conn., of consumption, Elisha P. Coleman, son of Nathaniel and Mary Ann Coleman, formerly of Burlington [Otsego Co. NY].

A little boy by the name of Tommy Welch was drowned in the river at Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] a short time since.

Union News, Union, NY, June 22, 1877

Death

On Friday evening last, Philotas Edmister died at his residence in Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], As Sheriff of Broome County, Mr. Edmister made an admirable record and left the office with the good wishes and praise of all who knew him in his official life.  We can testify to his urbanity and courteous conduct and his visits to the News office always left a pleasant impression on our mind.  The Ex-sheriff had been a sufferer for some months from cancer of the face.  He was born in Lisle [Broome Co. NY] in 1827.  Consequently, was just fifty years old.

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

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 21, 1877

Marriages

WHEELER - BOSWORTH:  At the residence of the bride's parents, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Sunday evening, June 17th, by Rev. S. Scoville. Mr. George Wheeler to Miss Eva T Bosworth, daughter of H.C. Bosworth, Esq.

SILLIMAN - HORTON:  In Coventryville [Chenango Co. NY], June 14th, by Rev. Mr. Reese, Mr. Sherwood D. Silliman of Herkimer County [NY] to Miss Avis A. Horton, of the former place.

North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY]:  Rev. E.L. Bennett, formerly of this place, was in town one day last week, to perform a marriage ceremony.  Mr. LaMott Sturges and Miss Alice Huntley were the most deeply interested parties to the transaction.  We trust they will find the state of matrimony preferable to that of single blessedness.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 20, 1877:  On Thursday last at 12 M, a pleasant and cheerful wedding took place at the residence of Mr. Huntley, where a few select guests who were relatives had gathered and witnessed the "coupling up" of Lamott Sturges with Alice Huntley, both of this place [North Norwich].  After the nuptial tie was completed, and they pronounced man and wife by E.L. Bennett, who officiated, a grand dinner was participated of by those present.  The bride was the happy recipient of a few rare and valuable presents, which, no doubt, added to the enjoyment of the occasion.

Deaths

SEELY:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], suddenly, June 17th, Polly [Seely] wife of Henry Seely, aged 54 years.

SAUNDERS:  In this town, [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], June 14th, Mr. Jeremiah Saunders, aged about 70 years.

GATES:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], June 14th, Lucinda [Gates], wife of Lewis Gates, aged 55 years.

WILLCOX:   In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] suddenly, June 11th, Mr. Herrington Willcox, aged 74 years.

WELLS:  In Cambria, Wis., March 22d, Mrs. Betsey Wells, aged 85 years, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

DOUGLAS:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], June 16th, Dr. A.S. Douglass aged 45 years.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 20, 1877:  Dr. A.S. Douglass, of the firm of Douglass & Chapman, died of dropsy at his residence in this village [Earlville], on Saturday afternoon, aged forty-five years.  The funeral services were held under Masonic ritual at his late residence on Monday.  He leaves a wife and three daughters who have the heartfelt sympathy of one community in this their sad bereavement.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 20, 1807

Deaths

North Norwich, Chenango Co. NY:  In our village cemetery are two ancient weather-beaten tombstones, and upon the one is inscribed the name of Jacob Cole, who was born in the 1705, and on the other is that of Stephen Purdy, who was born two years after.  The former died in the year 1800 and the latter 1802.  Can correspondents of other towns bring forth more ancient date of the forefathers in their cemetery grounds.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 23, 1877

Marriages

HAYWARD - TILTON:  At the residence of the bride's mother in South Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY], June 19th, 1877, by the Rev. J.H. Smith, E.D. Hayward M.D. of Columbus, N.Y. [Chenango Co.] to Helen E. Tilton of South Edmeston.

PARCE - WELLS:  At the residence of Warren Thurston, Esq., June 20th, 1877, by Rev. H.M. Crydenwise, Mr. Frank D. Parse of Otselic [Chenango Co. NY] and Adelia C. Wells, of this village [Norwich, Chenanog Co. NY].

____________________________

WHITNEY - WILCOX:  At the residence of the bride's father, H.C. Wilcox, Esq., June 20th, 1877, by Revs. R.W. Van Schoick, pastor of the Providence M.E. Church, Scranton, Pa., and H. Crydenwise, pastor of the Norwich M.E. Church, Mr. W.W. Whitney, M.D. of Union, N.Y. [Broome Co.] and Miss Hattie Wilcox of Norwich [Chenanog Co. NY].

The marriage of Mr. W.W. Whitney M.D. of Union, N.Y. and Miss Hattie E. Wilcox of our village took place at the residence of the bride's father on Wednesday evening the 20th inst. at 8 o'clock.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. R.W. VanSchoick of the Providence M.E. Church, Scranton Pa., and H.M. Crydenwise pastor of the M.E. Church, a large number of the relatives and friends of the contracting parties were present, among whom were several of our prominent citizens as follows:  Hon. H.G. Prindle, Sheriff Hill, Esquire Bosworth, and their wives, J.W. Church Esq., A.F. Cladding and others.

The presentation of silver et cetera to the bride was very fine, making a most inviting and beautiful exhibit.

Following the marriage service, which was briefly but gracefully performed by the reverend gentlemen officiating, and the congratulations to the happy pair which were as deservedly and worthily bestowed, as they were numerously and unstintedly given, the guests were invited to a most sumptuous repast, provided with exquisite taste, as the evident enjoyment of all clearly testified.

Mr. Whitney will hold a reception at his home in Union, on Tuesday evening next, at which time he will introduce his newly wedded wife to his many friends in that place.  We feel that we but express the sentiments of hosts of our readers when we say that none of the fair daughters of Norwich have gone from our midst carrying more of the love and respect of all than Mrs. Whitney. We congratulate the Doctor and the people of Union on their good fortune.

Death

East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY]:  Mrs. Rathbun, an old lady that lived with her daughter, Mrs. Beardsley, died last Thursday. The funeral took place at the Congregational Chruch, Sunday, P.M.

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY, June 1877 (continued)

 Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, June 14, 1877

Deaths

In Exeter [Otsego Co. NY], on the 29th of May at the residence of his father, O.C. Hinds, of consumption, Dennis C. Hinds, aged 31 years 1 months and 9 days.

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In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], June 7th, of consumption, George Dunavan, aged 29 years.  For six months he had been unable to work at his trade as a printer.  Funeral this Wednesday P.M. at 4 o'clock.

Died in this village on the 7th inst., George Dunavan, a grandson of the late Daniel Peck.  Mr. D. was a printer, having learned his trade in the Republican office, and after reaching his majority, worked most of the time, and till last November, in the Journal office.  He was an industrious, upright and amiable man, and a good workman whose early death we record with regret.  He was one of those men who could be fully trusted with any task given him and in any place he occupied.

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In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], of heart disease, June 12th, 1877, George Jarvis, aged 67 years.

Mr. George Jarvis died very suddenly early Monday morning last.  He was out as usual on Sunday and attended the Universalist Church, his accustomed place of worship, in the evening.  During all the spring he appeared in feeble health and had complained of palpitation of the heart.  Mr. Jarvis was born in the city of New York in 1810 and came to Cooperstown in 1840.  He was in the employ of E.&H. Cory from that time until the firm dissolved in 1864; for the three years following with E.P. Cory; and for the last ten years he has been at the head of the firm of Geo. Jarvis & Co.  Mr. J. was an industrious, intelligent and useful citizen, a kind-hearted and obliging neighbor and an ingenious and accommodating mechanic.  As such he will be greatly missed by the citizens of this place to all of whom he was known and by all respected.

Oneonta Herald & Democrat, Oneonta, NY, June 15, 1877

Marriages

At West Laurens [Otsego Co. NY], June 6th, by Rev. A. Hayward, Warren Weatherly and Miss Mattie T. [Thorp], adopted daughter of David Thorp.

The marriage of Warren Weatherly and Mattie Thorp was attended by a number of friends. The bride was elegantly attired.  many valuable presents were given them.  Both of the young people are to be congratulated.  They are much esteemed in this locality and all wish them happiness an dprosperity.

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], June 11th, by Justice Nelson, Chas. Saxton and Mrs. Brandow.

Deaths

In Maryland [Otsego Co. NY], June 5th, Broocksana Johnson, relict of the late Andrew Johnson, aged 69 years.

In Elk Creek [Otsego Co. NY], June 6th, Hannah Perry aged about 75 years.

At Westford [Otsego Co. NY], on the 11th inst. Mrs. Snyder, wife of the Rector of the episcopal church at Walton [Delaware Co. NY].

Hon. James M. Elwood died in Florida, a few days since.  He was a brother of Hon. A.R. Elwood, of Richfield [Otsego Co NY], educated at Oxford and Clinton and served in 1848 and 1849 in the Legislature.

The little daughter of Elbridge Signor of Hamden [Delaware Co. NY], aged three years, fell sidewise into a kettle of hot water and was so badly scalded that she died.

Mrs. Michael Brand of Roxbury, fell backward ad expired almost instantly while dining.  She was upward of 80 years old.

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

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 14, 1877

Marriages

DEVALLANT - TAYLOR:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], June 7th, by Rev. L.C. Hayes, Mr. J. Devallant o Miss E.A. Taylor, all of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY].

BERRY - HOYT:  In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], June 7th, by Revs. A. Crocker, S.T. Berry and I.P. Hopwood, Mr. Stephen Hl Berry of Dover, N.J., to Miss Alice L. Hoyt of Coventry.

DILLWORTH - JONES:  In Sangerfield [Oneida Co. NY], June 6th, by Rev. W.F. Tooke, Mr. J.R. Dillworth of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Cora A. Jones of Sangerfield.

CLARK - MAYCUMBER:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY], June 3d, by Rev. E. Rogers, Mr. Albert Clark to Miss Rosanna Maycumber, both of South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY].

GATES - HAYES:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY], June 5th, by Rev. Daniel Reese, Rev. Fred H. Gates of Etna, N.Y. to Miss Nellie L. Hayes of Cincinnatus.

Deaths

KEYES:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], June 9th, Mr. Stephen Keyes, aged 80 years.

Another of our old and respected citizens, Stehen Keyes, died at his residence on Saturday morning last, from the effects of a paralytic shock, aged eighty years.  He was father-in-law of Hamilton Phelps, Esq.

SHEA:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], June 7th, George [Shea] son of Patrick and Catharine Shea, aged 5 years, 2 months and 14 days.

WOOD:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] June 11th, at the residence of her brother, Nelson O. Wood, Miss Sarah Wood aged 64 years.

BLISS:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], June 4th, of diphtheria, Emma R. Bliss aged 18 years; and June 7th, Ella Bliss, aged 5 years.

GARLICK:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], June 7th, Isabella [Garlick] daughter of Walter Garlick, aged 4 months.

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From the Chicago Inter-Ocean of June 4th, we copy the following mention of the death of a former resident of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], who left his native town while young and became identified with the interests of the growing city of Chicago which has since been his home and where he leaves surviving him a large family.

"The burial of the late Captain B.F. Davison took place last Saturday afternoon, with Masonic ceremonies at Graceland, Rev. H.G. Perry officiating as Chaplain, under the auspices of Cleveland Lodge, of which the deceased was a member.  Captain B.F. Davison was born at Norwich, Chenango County, N.Y. in 1816 and commenced sailing at an early age.  He first came to Chicago with Captain Whittaker in 1836, the vessel bringing a cargo of supplies for the fort here.  He made Chicago his home in 1856, since which year he has resided here.  For many years he was Marine Inspector for the Underwriters in Chicago, but of late years has been in the ship chandlery.  He expired at his residence in the city of Chicago at 1 o'clock Thursday afternoon, 31st ult.  Having sailed for many years, having been an owner, and having been connected all his life in one way or another with our lake marine, no man was better known all over the chain of lakes. The deceased had hosts of friends and acquaintances, as also have his grown-up family, which is a numerous one."

News Item

The personal property belonging to the estate of the late Amasa Burrows of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], deceased, will be sold at auction, by H.A Bradley, Administrator, on Tuesday, June 19th, commencing at 10 o'clock in the forenoon at his late residence near Rockdale [Chenango Co. NY].  Five Dairy Cows, two Yearlings, a Bay Mare, a five-year-old Gray Horse, with Wagons, Sleighs and Farming Tools generally, will be sold.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, June 13, 1877

Marriage

Mr. and Mrs. Marcus Cooper received a most complete surprise on the evening of May 26th, it being the 25th anniversary of their marriage.  A large number of elegant pieces of silver were presented by some of their many friends, a fine collation was served, and a merry time enjoyed by all present, who hope to surprise them on their golden anniversary also.

Death

ALLEN:  In Grafton, Nebraska, May 31st, of consumption, Mr. William F. Allen, aged 53 years, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], and for a number of years employed in this office.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 14, 1877

Marriage

In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], May 29th, by Rev. G.M. -?-, T. Johnson and Miss Sarah Gale, both of Binghamton.

News Item

We understand that Cornelius Whitbeck of this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], was recently married to a lady living near Albany [Albany Co. NY].  We also learn that said wife died in some kind of a fit about three weeks after her marriage.  It will be remembered that Mr. Whitbeck lost his second wife in this village about four or five months since, and the sudden taking off of his third wife must fill the old man's heart with unbounded sorrow.  Verily, this is a fast age we live in and Cornelius is one of the b-hoys.

Historical Sketch of New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY (1877)

 Historical Sketch of the Settlement of the Town of New Berlin

By John Hyde

New Berlin Gazette, New Berlin, NY, May 19, 1877

Aruna Welch, another early settler in New Berlin village had his dwelling house on North Street now owned [in 1877] and occupied by Widow Howard, and he occupied the same shop where Augustus C. Welch made nails, for his paint shop he being a house painter by trade.  He was a sociable and genial man and enjoyed the blessings of a happy disposition.  About the year 1820 he moved into the Ohio country, as it was then called.  He sold his homestead to Dyer Tracy who afterwards sold it to a gunsmith by the name of Jackson who acquired the name of "Stub and Twist" Jackson, for making stub and twist rifles, as he termed them, because he manufactured old nail heads and nail points procured from blacksmith shops into rifle barrels.  Mr. Jackson had a numerous family of sons and daughters.  Some of his sons worked with him in his gun making trade.  He was industrious and a good gun maker.  He sold his house and lot to Orsemus Clarke, a blacksmith, and moved back to Louisville.  Mr. Clarke occupied the place some years, was an industrious worker at his trade, built a new dwelling house on the site where the Aruna Welch dwelling house stood.  His wife was Thomas Steere's daughter.  He sold the place to Widow Harris and purchased the corner lot opposite the Blakeslee premises, on Geneseo Street, built the house now on the premises, lived there some time and finally went over into Pittsfield to a place where he carried on farming and hop raising the remainder of his days, leaving to his widow and his son, Charles, his property, acquired by prudent, economical habits and honest labor.

Vine Welch owned the next dwelling house and lot north of the Welch lot.  He was one of the first settlers in the village and by trade a maker of spinning wheels, both great and small; the one for making yarn from wool and tow, the lesser wheel to spin flax into thread, or yarn to be woven into linen cloth and quill heals to wind skeins of yarn for the weaver's shuttle.  In the spring season of the year the buzzing spinning wheels made manifest that the farmers' thrifty wives and daughters were busy at their accustomed avocations.  In the days when homespun cloth was made into wearing apparel for the men and women, Mr. Vine Welch found abundant employment in supplying his customers with the means of making their own clothing by hand.  His widow and children remained on the place some years after his decease.  The two daughters married and moved into the western states.  His  son remained on the place and worked at the carpenter's trade some years.  He purchased the hatter's shop belonging to Sylvester Walker which stood on the place where now [in 1877] stands the brick dwelling house owned and occupied by Ira Butterfield and moved it onto the premises and used it for his workshop.  The building is the long two-story part of the dwelling house now [in 1877] owned by Mrs. Thurber.

Vine Welch sold the premises to Mr. Willard, who occupied them several years before his decease, when the title passed to his daughter-in-law by will, who now owns the place and rents it to tenants.

Sylvester Walker, of whom mention has been made, was a hatter by trade, served his apprenticeship with Mr. Worthington at Cooperstown, married a sister of General DeForest's wife, bought the house and lot now owned and occupied [in 1877] by Frederick Furman and bought the lot now owned [in 1877] by Mr. Butterfield, built the hat shop as already mentioned, and carried on the hatter business several years and finally sold out and went into one of the western States.  He came to New Berlin about the year 1817, was one of the prominent citizens while he remained in New Berlin and was a sociable and good neighbor.  Mr. Meacham first owned the premises and built the dwelling house which he sold to Mr. Walker.  He was a chair maker and many of his chairs are yet in being.  In the early days of the settlement, wood was plenty and mechanics made their ware more for durability than for ornament.  Mr. Meacham was an industrious worker at his trade and after selling his homestead to Mr. Walker he departed for the western country.

Mr. Nehemiah Dyer worked in the old cotton factory several years and after accumulating a sufficient sum to enable him to buy a wild lot, he purchased the lot back of the Great Brook which he cleaned up and lived on until his decease, leaving a good property to his wife and children.  HIs wife was a daughter of John Blackman, who worked in the machine shop with Dyer.  This Mr. Blackham was by trade a cabinet and chairmaker and a first-rate workman.

Mr. Dyer was a good farmer and a much-respected citizen.  HIs wife made cheese of a superior quality, and better adapted to the taste of lovers of good cheese than can be found in modern cheese making factories.  Mr. Dyer left his estate to his wife and children.  One of his sons married a daughter of William Jackson, a wagon maker, who was an emigrant from England.

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY, June 1877 (Continued)

 Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, June 6, 1877

Deaths

May 5:  In Norwich, Mrs. Lodema Bishop widow of the late Lyman Bishop, aged 74 years.

May 26:  In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], Adam G. Rifenbark, aged 66 years.

The death of Fletcher Harper, which occurred on Tuesday, May 29, removes from earth the last of a firm whose name has long been familiar as household words all over the land.  From seaboard to frontier "Harper Brothers" has been a legend known and read of and popular with the masses.  Nor has this wide and enviable reputation been due entirely to the fact of the firm's proud position as fathers of New York's publishing business and of book making in America.  From those who knew the four brothers best has gone forth such a testimony to their rare personal worth, that the public at large long ago came to regard the words Harper Brothers as being but another name for the Cherryble Brothers with whom Mr. Dickens put the world in love.  Unless common report is greatly a fault, the four were as thoughtful of others as tender-hearted and generous as they were shrewd, energetic and indefatigable.  A story illustrating the relation subsisting between the four used to be told.  One of them was once asked by an over serious visitor to the publishing house "which of you is Harper and which are the Brothers."  The member of the firm addressed replied with a kind smile, "Either one you please is Harper and the other three Brothers."

Oneonta Herald & Democrat, Oneonta, NY, June 8, 1877

Marriages

At the residence of and by Rev. Dr. Grant, John R. Tyrrell to Miss Anna [Dunham] all of Delhi [Delaware Co. NY].

At Worcester [Otsego Co. NY], in the Baptist Church, June 6th, B. Ames of Albany [Albany Co. NY] and Miss A. Brewster of the former place.

At the bride's home, Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] May 2d, by Rev. W.B. Westlake, Leverne G. Platt of Milford [Otsego Co. NY] and Miss Lynn E. Sargent of Oneonta.

Deaths

In Milford [Otsego Co. NY], June 3d, at the residence of her son, Jasper Woodbeck, Polly [Woodbeck], aged 87 years.

In Franklin [Delaware Co. NY], May 30, Merrick A. Barnes, M.D.,  aged 25 years.

In Franklin [Delaware Co. NY], June 1st, Mrs. John Benedict, aged 65 years.

In South Worcester [Otsego Co. NY], May 30, Lucetta [Pierce], wife of Norman Pierce, aged 42 years.

In Delhi [Delaware Co. NY], May 29, Louis Fitch, aged about 80 years.

In Sidney [Delaware Co. NY], June 3, Geo. B. Niles aged 30 years.

In Sidney [Delaware Co. NY]Juen 2, Thos. Williams, aged 43 years.

A boy named Michael Hayes, aged 16 years, was killed at Duanesburg [Schenectady Co. NY] Tuesday.  He was engaged as a laborer on the A.&S. railroad, and it appears that he got upon a gravel train for the purpose of flagging an approaching train.  When he had arrived at his destination, he went to the rear of the gravel train for the purpose of jumping off but finding the train going too fast he held onto the car for some minutes and then let go.  He fell and struck upon the back of his head, breaking his skull.  He survived his injuries about two hours.

Laurens, Otsego Co. NY:  John Phillips who died last week had been a prominent member of the M.E. church for many years.  By his death, the community loses an upright and useful citizen.

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

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 7, 1877

Deaths

In Barker [Broome Co. NY], May 11th, Mrs. Ruth Harrington, after a long and painful sickness, aged 67 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], June 4th, Mr. John W. Edwards aged 28 years.

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In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], June 2d, Edgar B. [Conklin], son of Thomas and Sarah Conklin, of the town of Kirkwood, Broome County, [NY], aged 26 years.

Death is ever an unwelcome visitor, but it is doubly so when it removes from a community like this one of God's noblest works, an upright, honorable, and worthy young man, as in this case it has.

The subject of these few lines has been a resident of this village only about three years, yet in that brief space of time he has endeared himself to the entire community by his manly bearing and unquestioned integrity.  A life of usefulness and honor was just bursting upon him, when, lo! the messenger came and he bowed to its mandates, and entered into that unknown world, where the spirits of the just are made perfect.

Mr. Conklin commenced the study of the law in the office of E.J. Arnold, Esq., two years and a half ago, and it is here that he has shown to us what his aspirations and character were.  In the capacity of a student, he had exhibited those qualities which in time would have ripened into a full blown and useful career.  Indeed, such was the confidence of his ability and integrity which was reposed in him by Mr. Arnold, that it was his intention, when he should have been admitted to the bar, to have taken him as a partner in his business.  But all these earthly anticipations of a bright future have been dashed to the dust by the workings of an inscrutable Providence, and that young and manly form will no more be seen in our midst and the void occasioned by his death in the office, where he was so well beloved by his instructor and friend, will be hard to fill.

During the last year it has been our fortune to be near him in business, and we have found that he was composed of the material which once developed the world admires.  We always found him an agreeable and genial young man and one who, if he differed with us, did it from an honesty of purpose, and from an opinion founded upon research which it was hard to undermine.  In connection with all his noble characteristics, he was a Christian and when the destroying angel was hovering over his wasted and diseased form, it found him ready, and he exclaimed:  "All is well!"  And now that bright spirit is wandering by those golden shores waiting, yes, waiting for those loved ones he left here.

To the young men of our village, we would point to our departed friend as a character worthy of emulation.  Strive as he did to be a man.  Live as he did for a purpose, not only in this life but in the life to come.

His funeral was largely attended on Sunday, and an able and touching discourse was delivered by Rev. E.P. Eldredge, of the M.E. Church, of which he was a worthy member.  A pleasing feature of the obsequies was the attendance of the large Sunday School, of which he had been Ass't Superintendent. We noticed also that the class of which he was instructor wore the badge of mourning, betokening their grief and deep loss.

Our community not only mourn the loss of this promising young man, but they extend to the young and bereaved wife, and all of his near and dear relatives their heart-felt sympathies in this their hour of deep affliction.

And may we all be as fully prepared to enter the portals of another and a brighter world when the messenger comes as he was for whom we mourn.  "All is well!"  Peace to his ashes.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, June 7, 1877

 Death

"Aunt Ruth" Coe died at the residence of her brother-in-law, Dexter Hunt, on the 31st ult.  She was beloved and esteemed by all who knew her.  Her age was 81.  Her remains were taken to White Store [Chenango Co. NY  ] for interment.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, June 7, 1877

Marriages

At the home of the bride's father, May 30th, by Rev. H.H. Fisher, Wallace S. Hathaway of Morris [Otsego Co. NY], to Miss Jessie A. Young, of New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY].

At Gilbertsville [Otsego Co. NY], May 27th, by Rev. S.H. Moon, Wm. D. Babcock and Mrs. E.B. Greene, both of Gilbertsville.

Deaths

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], June 1st, 1877, Mrs. Naomi Lakin, aged 60 years.

In Toddsville [Otsego Co. NY], May 31st, 1877, David Finch, aged 45 years.

At the residence of Luther Goodrich, at Oaksville [Otsego Co. NY], June 2d, 1877, Wm. Northrup aged 69 years.

At Schuyler's Lake [Otsego Co. NY], April 25th, 1877, Mr. James Hayner in the 88th year of his age.

In Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], May 23d, 1877, Wm. Oliver aged 50 years.

The last of the Harper Brothers is dead.  James Harper, the eldest died in March 1869; Joseph Wesley [Harper], the third brother died a year later; John [Harper], the second, died on the 22d of April 1875, and Fletcher Harper the youngest brother died on the 29th ult. after a lingering illness.  The business is now conducted by sons of the old firm.

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Died at Milford, N.Y. [Otsego Co.], May 31st, 1877, of prostration, succeeding pneumonia, and congestion of the brain, Sarah Hamlin [Bissell], wife of George N. Bissell and eldest daughter of David Hamlin of Watertown, N.Y. [Jefferson Co.], aged 28 years.

The funeral was held on the Sabbath of June 3d, at her residence, Milford, and after the burial of the deceased, memorial services were conducted at the Presbyterian church by the Rev. E.C. Van Camp, assisted by the Rev. A.B. Richardson.  The services at the residence were held amidst a profusion of floral offerings which symbolized in their quantity and beauty the depth of affection for her of her friends and acquaintances.  At the church, an assembly gathered filling the auditorium to overflowing.  the exercises were intensely impressive.  Rev. S.C. Van Camp, her pastor, referred eloquently and at length to the usefulness of the deceased, as a member of the church and to the graces of her character.  And the Rev. A.B. Richardson spoke feelingly of the void her loss must cause in the community.

Mrs. Bissell united with the Presbyterian church at Milford in December 1872, by letter from the First Presbyterian Church of Watertown, N.Y.  and has ever since remained an active member thereof.  During most of that time period she has been its voluntary organist.  While she excelled in that position, her especial musical accomplishment resided in singing.  Possessing a pure, rich, soprano voice, completely at her command, and in addition, a rare comprehension which can only insure the proper expression of sentiment, she almost invariably delighted her listeners.  The last time she attended church service was in May, when she sang the melodious solo of P.P. Bliss, entitled, "What Shall the Harvest Be" with an intelligence and sweetness which fairly charmed the audience.  Little thought her listeners that the harvest reaping would contain so rich a sheaf, and one so valuable to the community and to her three children, husband and friends, as herself.

In the Sabbath School of her church, she manifest to an extraordinary interest, extoling that practical piety which nothing but the love of so noble a sphere of work can better call forth.

Nor was she alone conspicuous in the church.  Socially she was such a boon as only an active, cultured young woman can be.  No person of her circle of acquaintance cast a brighter light about her as their painful suspense throughout her illness attested.  

The last words that she uttered were addressed to her husband in admiration of her children as follows.  "George, our children are beautiful children; our children are beautiful."  Though her soul has fled to the realm of light and her voice is silent in the sleep that has no waking, the influence of her intelligent, Christian, earnest life, must long remain as an inspiration to all her friends.