Tuesday, November 12, 2024

Vital Records, Madison (1872) & Otsego (1878) NY Counties

 Democratic Union, Oneida, NY, May 30, 1872

Funeral (Conrad Betz, Fanny Betz, Genie Tousley)

West Eaton [Madison Co. NY]:  The funeral services of the three unfortunate victims of the Alderbrook casualty were held at the M.E. Church in this place on Wednesday afternoon last and was an occasion the memory of which will never pass from the minds of those present, not only because of its deep solemnity and the manifestations of sympathy for the bereaved relatives and friends, but from the peculiarly distressing circumstances of the accident, the causes of which must, of a necessity, forever remain a mystery. 

Long before the hour appointed for the services, large numbers of people were congregated in and around the church, and hopes were entertained that the services would be held in the open air that all might have an opportunity of listening to the services, as it was very evident that not over one-fourth of the people present could be accommodated in the church. But the objection to speaking in the open air and as no preparations had been made, the change was not effected.  The number of people present was variously estimated at from fifteen hundred to twenty-five hundred, the latter number being, in our estimation nearest the actual number, the number of teams arriving from the east alone numbering three hundred and twenty-three.

The services at the church were conducted by the Rev. B.W. Hamilton of Canastota, assisted by Revs. F.J. Whitney, Judson Davis and O. Tayntor.  The sermon by Eld. Hamilton, from the text "All Thy waves and Thy billows are gone over me," (ps. XLII, 7) was necessarily short, but exceedingly appropriate and eminently worthy of its author.  At the conclusion of the sermon, Rev. Judson Davis addressed the audience in a very affecting and appropriate manner, at the close of which, Lodge 658, F.&A.M. of Morrisville, assumed charge of the services, which were conducted in the usual manner by Geo. F. Burn, H.P. of Cyrus Chapter, R.A.M., No. 50, of Hamilton, of which the deceased, Mr. Betz was an honored member.  

That all present might have an opportuning of looking upon the remains, the bodies were brought out into the open air, and under the admirable management of G.B. Mowry and W.E. Enos, the large crowd of people, without confusion or crowding, passed slowly around, all seeming to feel deeply the solemnity of the hour, while the tear-bedimmed eyes attested their sorrow and their sympathy for the bereaved families.   Owing to the lateness of the hour and the immediate prospect of rain, the services at the graves were shortened and somewhat hurried. 

The following short essay was written by Miss Tousley and read in school, at Hamilton, the day before her death:

Life's Voyage

Our life is one long voyage.  At our entrance into the world, we were placed upon a deep, dark sea, surrounded on every side by dangers, and all are hastening towards one goal.  The waters o'er which our frail barks must pass are at times smooth and bright; but how often does the storm gather and suddenly break upon us, veiling our vision with the dark clouds of trials and sorrow?  Our barks are light, and the current into which we are thrown is strong.   Many, heedless of the danger to which they are hastening, are idly drifting with the tide, grasping at every trifle while they are being steadily but surely borne onward to their ruin.  Their crafts are too fragile to battle the rough waters and their cry for help will come all too late.  Their boats will sink slowly, while the dark waves will break over them, engulfing them in darkness.  This sea upon which we are sailing is dotted in every direction by these frail crafts laden with their precious freight of human life, but if we can truly say "Our Father's at the helm," by-and-by our boats will be safely moored in the harbor of rest beyond.

Oneonta Herald & Democrat, Oneonta, NY, October 4, 1878

Birth

Wells Bridge, Otsego Co. NY:  Mr. and Mrs. Daius Palmer have a visitor.  She weighs 9-1/2 pounds.

Marriages

In Portlandville [Otsego Co. NY] at the house of the bride's father, Sept. 26th, by Rev. J.W. Ainsworth, F.W. Packer and Alice Wellman, both of Portlandville.

In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] Oct. 2d, by Rev. Mr. Bundy, of Otego, Frank Weidman and Lucy A. Brewster.

At the same place and date by the same, Ezra Brewster and Fanny M. Bundy.

In Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. S.S. Cady, Wm. F. Payne and Miss Louisa A. Meeker, both of Edmeston.

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] Oct. 3, by Rev. Geo. Woodworth, George E. Woodworth son of the officiating clergyman and Amanda Mickel.

Deaths

In Portlandville [Otsego Co. NY], Sept. 30th, Elizabeth [Wright] relict of the late Daniel Wright, aged 77 years.

In Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY], Sept. 20th, Milton U. Chase, aged 76 years.

News Item

Biography of Rev. Young C. Smith, D.D.

The following sketch of Rev. J.C. Smith, at present pastor of the M.E. Church in Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] we find in a work recently issued entitled First Fifty Years of Cazenovia Seminary:

Rev. Young C. Smith, D.D., was born in South New Berlin, Chenango County, New York, February 14, 1820.  His early educational opportunities were limited to the common School and to an occasional term in such select schools as a small country town now and then afforded.  With these aids he made sufficient attainments to venture upon the work of teaching and taught his first school when fourteen years of age.  It was during this same year that he gave his heart to the Saviour and sought "first the kingdom of God and his righteousness."  

His first academic privileges were enjoyed at the Oxford Academy during the years 1839-40, when Merritt G. McKoon, an enthusiastic and successful educator, was principal.  In 1841 he spent his first summer in the Seminary in Cazenovia.  Upon leaving the Seminary, the Quarterly Conference of Cazenovia station gave him his first license to preach.  Entered the junior class in Union College in 1846.  The peerless Dr. Nott was president of the college at that time, and no one that ever sat attentively at his feet in his palmy days went away without carrying with him the fragrance of his preceptor's wisdom and new qualifications for the inevitable duties of life.  Mr. Smith graduated with honors in July 1848, with a class of eighty.  He immediately took charge of Deerfield Academy in Knoxville, Pennsylvania, but before the end of the academic year he left that position for a more inviting one in Wyoming Seminary, in Kingston, Pennsylvania.  For nearly thirteen years he was professor of ancient languages in that institution and during that time bore an important part in fitting a large number for college, for teaching, for professional study, or for the duties of business life.  In the spring of 1862, he was chosen principal, but resigned after little more than a year's service in that position, and turned his attention to the work of the ministry in the Wyoming Conference of which he was a member.  For four years he was secretary of that conference.

His style of preaching is plain and direct.  He aims to instruct and lead to Christ by the use of pertinent and convincing truth, rather than by the more pretentious arts of oratory, or by compliance with any of the demands of petted and "itching ears."  During his ministry his services have been in demand for the most responsible class of appointments in his conference and every charge over which he has presided has been faithfully and successfully served.  Three years after graduating, he received the master's degree in course, and in 1868 Dickinson College conferred upon him the degree of Doctor of Divinity.

In 1859 he was married to Miss Mary E. Wood at that time, and for several preceding years, preceptress of Wyoming Seminary.  She was a lady of intelligence and culture and of established and active piety and has always held her qualifications at the disposal of her Master and of his Church.  Dr. Smith is a rare Christian gentleman of a high order of talent, scholarly, genial, charitable, and broadly benevolent.  He is a model professor and a model preacher.  Were his ambition to be in the highest offices of his church commensurate with his qualifications for such offices he would long ago have been placed in them.

Monday, November 11, 2024

Vital Records, Madison County, NY, 1872

 Democratic Union, Oneida, NY, May 23, 1872

Marriages

McCABE - BULGER: In Oneida [Madison Co. NY], May 22, by Rev. Wm. Fennely, Mr. Phillip McCabe of Williamstown, Oswego County [NY] and Miss Eleanor Bulger of Stockbridge [Madison Co. NY].

WARNER - FELT:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] May 8, by Rev. I.D. Pesslee(?), Mr. S.  Judson Warner and Miss Ella L. Felt, both of Hamilton.

MATHEWS - ABBOTT:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY], April 17, by Rev. W.R. Brooks, Mr. E.C.  Mathews and Miss Marion L. Abbott, both of Oriskany Falls [Oneida Co. NY].

AMES - WELLS:  In DeRuyter [Madison Co NY] May 15, by Rev. J. Clarke, assisted by Rev. T. Fisher, Mr. Hartwell B. Ames of Cuyler [Cortland Co. NY] and Miss M. Lou. Wells of DeRuyter.

VROOM - SHERMAN:  In Englewood, N.J., May 1, by Rev. J.D. Morrison, Mr. Aaron Vroom and Miss Carrie Sherman, adopted daughter of Edward Sherman, Esq. of Cleveland, N.Y. [Oswego Co.]

DAKIN - CAULKINS:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] May 7, by Rev. S. Moore, Mr. Edward W. Dakin of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Sarah E. Caulkins of Smyrna.

Deaths

WILLIAMS:  In Buffalo [Erie Co. NY] May 9, Pearl [Williams] son of Geo. H. and Caroline P. Williams, formerly of Hamilton [Madison Co. NY], aged 9 months.

HOLMES:  In Wellsville, N.Y. [Allegany Co.], May 12, William H. Holmes formerly of New Woodstock [Madison Co. NY] aged 47 years.

ALFORD:  In Vernon Centre [Oneida Co. NY], May 6, Anna O. Fay [Arnold] wife of Orson Alford, aged 61 years.

BATLEY:  In Philadelphia, Pa. April 18, of typhoid fever, Merinda [Batley] only daughter of George and Sarah A. Batley, formerly of North Bay [Oneida Co. NY].

HOWARD:  In Oneida [Madison Co. NY] May 14, John Howard, aged 34 years 2 months and 21 days.

MITCHELL:  In Chicago Ill. May 6, John Smith [Mitchell] son of Milton and Maryettee Mitchell, aged 6 years.

McDONNALL:  In Durhamville [Oneida Co. NY] at the residence of her son, Orson Foster, May 16, Mrs. F..locia McDonnall, aged 86 years.

PORTER:  Near Earlville [Madison Co. NY] May 11, Leroy Porter, only son of Orlando and Leafy Porter, aged 16 years.

ARITY:  In Solsville [Madison Co. NY], May 14 James B. Arity aged 15 years.

BURDWIN:  In Morrisville [Madison Co. NY] May 17, Mrs. Orrinda Burdwin, wife of Dea. John R. Burdwin, aged 84 years.

PERSIVAL:  In Cleveland, Ohio, April 26, Lucy L. [Percival] widow of the late D...ian Persival, formerly of Morrisville [Madison Co. NY], aged 56 years.

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BETZ & TOUSLEY:  Drowned at Alderbrook, near West Eaton [Madison Co. NYU] on Saturday evening, May 18, Conrad Betz aged 38 years and 6 months; Fanny Betz, aged 11 years and 11 months; and Genie [Tousley] daughter of Edwin and Ellen Tousley, aged 16 years and 5 months.

It is rarely indeed that we are called upon to chronicle an accident so sad and heart rending as occurred at Alderbrook, near this village [West Eaton] on Saturday evening last which resulted in the death of Mr. Conrad Betz, superintendent of the Alderbrook woolen mill, his daughter, aged about thirteen years and a daughter of Edwin Tousley, aged sixteen.  They were sailing upon the pond above the mill in a frail boat and were apparently feeling unusually well and enjoying themselves, Miss Tousley, particularly, seeming to feel unusually gay and spirited.  Mr. Betz had rowed the boat to the head of the pond and was slowly rowing homeward and when about opposite the residence of W.L. Fleming, Miss Betz was seen to rise up and in a moment after the boat was discovered to be empty with no traces of its occupants.  The alarm was instantly given and in a very short time tube rafts were constructed and pushed out to the empty boat, but no trace of its recent occupants, except their hats and loose garments, which were floating upon the water, could be discovered.  By this time hundreds of men, women and children were gathered upon the bank, all vainly endeavoring to render assistance, or soothe the agony of the bereaved parents and friends.

The news of the accident soon reached Eaton, and many came from there to aid in the efforts to recover the bodies.  Boats were sent for and drag hooks extemporized and the water shut off above, while the pond was drawn off as fast as possible, and for two long hours the anxious crowd watched the efforts of those in the boats and upon the rafts.  A little after nine o'clock, D.V. Pease and Geo. Dunbar found Mr. Betz, who was taken to the shore and the boat returned to search for the bodies of the young ladies, which were found within a short time and but a short distance from where Mr. Betz was taken out.  Mr. B 's watch, which was in his pocket, had stopped and indicated five minutes past seven, which was about the time they were last seen alive. 

Mr. Betz had lived among us but about one year, yet he had won for himself many warm, earnest friends, and was honored and respected by all with whom he came in contact.  Frank, cheerful, open hearted, just and honorable and in the prime and vigor of manhood, his loss will be severely felt, and the Masonic fraternity of which he was a worthy and honored member, will not soon forget that to be "worthy" they must emulate his virtues.  Miss Betz was generally admired for her modest and retiring manners and had already become a favorite with her schoolmates and companions.  Mrs. Betz, in her double bereavement, is nearly frantic with grief and lies in a somewhat critical condition which kind neighbors and sympathizing friends are vainly endeavoring to ameliorate.  

Miss Tousley was a young lady possessing rare qualities of mind and heart and here, where the days of her childhood and youth have been spent, was she most admired and appreciated.  Gentle in disposition, modest in demeanor and with a keen discriminating mind that recognized true worth in whatever garb, she was greatly beloved and admired. The grief of her school friends as she was taken from her watery grave was uncontrollable, and attested their love for one who, but a little while before, had shared with them the pleasures of the social circle.  The agony of the mother as she looked upon the loved form of her only daughter lying cold and still and the shock to the absent father when he reads the telegram calling him home to look once more upon the form of an idolized child, can only be imagined by those who have experienced like afflictions.

We feel that whatever words of consolation we might offer the bereaved ones would seem cold and selfish and of little use, but we trust they can look with the eye of faith into the bright world beyond the River and behold the forms of the loved ones beckoning them to the joys of the City of light and life.  R.E.F.

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Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY:  Bateman M. Borden, an old and well-known resident of this village died very suddenly last Friday afternoon, at about 2 o'clock.  He had been engaged at some carpenter work at the residence of Miss M. Brush on Centre St. and after piling up some lumber complained of feeling badly and sat down in the woodshed. Shortly after, A.S. Bissell, who had called at the house heard a fall and going out found Mr. Borden lying dead on the floor.  His death is attributed to heart disease in one of its many forms, as he had been subject to attacks of like character previously.  Mr. Borden was 69 years of age (would have been 70 in June) and had been a resident of Cazenovia for about 60 years.  He was one of the original Liberty or Abolition party and has been well known in politics in this section.  He had for many years a good reputation as an officer holding the positions of constable and deputy sheriff.

Sunday, November 10, 2024

Vital Records, Madison (1810) & Otsego (1856) Counties, NY

 The Pilot, Cazenovia, NY, November 7, 1810

Marriages

At Vernon [Oneida Co. NY] on Thursday the 1st inst. by Wm. I Hopkins, Esq. Mr Wm. Jennings merchant, to Miss Lois Perkins both of Lenox [Madison Co. NY].

At Cannan, Con. Mr. Ward Walton, merchant, of lenox, Madison Co., N.Y. to Miss Susan Ensign of the former place.

Elopement

Whereas my wife Betsey [Hart] and the rest of my family have eloped from my bed and board, without any just cause for so doing, I do hereby forbid all persons harboring or trusting them or either of them on my account as I will pay no debts contracted by either of them after this date.  Phinehas Hart Eaton, Madison Co. Nov. 2, 1810.

The Pilot, Cazenovia, NY, November 14, 1810

News Item

One Cent Reward

Ran away from the subscriber on the 22nd day of August, an indented apprentice named Tunis Van Camp, about 19 years of age, dark complexion, about 6 feet 6 inches high; had on and took with him a blue broadcloth coat, a drab colored su...., a green bumbasset short coat, fur hat, sawarrow boots and many other articles of clothing.  All persons are forbid harboring or trusting said boy on any account, if they would avoid the penalty of the law.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, March 26, 1856

Marriages

On the 13th inst. by Rev. E. Westcott, Mr. Wm. Angel Tarbox of Milford [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Mary Yager, daughter of Mr. Michael Yager, of this town [Oneonta, Otsego Co. NY].

At Milford [Otsego Co. NY] on 13th inst. by Elder J. Cooke, Mr. Charles B. Carr to Miss Sarah Jane [Townsend] daughter of Mr. Solomon Townsend, both of Milford.

Death

The Widow of E.B. Marvin died very suddenly at her residence in this town on Thursday night last.  She had been at a neighbor's visiting during the evening and returned to her house between 8 and 9 o'clock, to all appearances in as good health as common, but soon after entering the House, she was taken with a fit and died almost instantly.  She was 44 years of age.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, May 21, 1856

Marriage

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] on the 25th inst. by Rev. E. Westcott, Mr. George Westcott of Milford [Otsego Co. NY], to Miss Rebecca Shepherd of the former place.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, June 11, 1856

Death

We learn that a young man, son of Mr. Josiah Cole of the town of Roseboom [Otsego Co. NY], aged 18 years, while engaged in plowing on his father's farm, on the 28th ult. had occasion to use the whip to his team, when the animal nearest him kicked, striking him in the breast. The young man remarked to a laborer who was at work in the same field, that he was not much hurt; that he should recover in a few monents.  He however found that he was unable to walk, when he was carried to the house.  On examination, his chest bones were found to be completely stove in.  He expired in about two hours.  Cherry Valley Gazette.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, July 9, 1856

Marriages

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] July 2d by Rev. E.C. Hodge, Mr. Amos Tubbs of Maryland [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Marion Utter of Oneonta.

At West Davenport [Delaware Co. NY] on the 29th of June, by Rev. J.W. Smith, Mr. Giles H. Cowley to Miss Diantha Brasee, all of the above place.

Death

In Sharon [Schoharie Co. NY], June the 23d, DeWitt M. [Wild] only son of Willima and Betsey wild, aged 1 year 2 months and 11 days.

Planted bud, we weep thine exit, / Crushed before thou art fully blown; / But we know thou wilt sweetly blossom / By the great Eternal throne.

Father weep not for your darling, / Mother hush each rising sigh; / Your child no more shall suffer, / Your child no more shall die.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, July 16, 1856

Marriage

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] July 3, by Rev. E.C. Hodge, Mr. Squire H . Moon to Miss Harriet Goodrich, both of Davenport [Delaware Co. NY].

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, July 23, 1856

Elopement

I forbid anyone harboring or trusting my wife Adeline Couse on my account, as she has left my bed and board without any just cause of provocation.  Christian Couse, Otsego [Otsego Co. NY] July 4th, 1856.

Saturday, November 9, 2024

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY, 1847

 Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, August 4, 1847

Marriages

In Decatur [Otsego Co. NY] on the 25th July by the Rev. James H. Richards, Adam Phillips of this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Houck of the former place.

In Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 28th inst. by the Rev. H.A. Smith, Mr. Robert Rouse of Milford [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Matilda Coffin of Middlefield.

Deaths

In Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 27th inst. of apoplexy, Miss Lucia T. [Cory] daughter of Mr. Oliver Cory, aged 41 years.

In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] on the morning of the 27th inst. of disease of the kidneys, Col. George H. Noble in the 44th year of his age.  He was a highly respectable man, and at the time of his death held the offices of Postmaster of the village and Supervisor of the town.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, August 11, 1847

Marriages

 In this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] by the Rev. C.H. Harvey on the 28th ult. Mr. Douw Beekman of Fort Plain [Montgomery Co. NY] to Miss Helen Gray of Cherry Valley.

On the 4th July, by the Rev. Mr. Whiston, Mr. Amos Burnside to Miss Thankful Jane Burnside both of Maryland [Otsego Co. NY].

At Worcester [Otsego Co. NY] on the 29th ult by the Hon. Seth Chase, Mr. Gypson Hartwell of Decatur [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Alvira Johnson daughter of the late Col. Johnson of Worcester.

Death

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] on the 30th ult. Mr. Brown Winsor.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, August 18, 1847

Marriage

In Otsego [Otsego Co. NY] on the 10th of May 1846 by the Rev. Mr. Campbell, Mr. Holden E. Campbell to Miss Charlotte E. Brown, both of Fly Creek [Otsego Co. NY].

Death

In this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on the 3d inst. the Rev. Storyes Gilbert aged 65 years.

Thus has passed away from the Church on earth, another of its long tried and faithful ministers; for is there often to be met within the manifestation of Christian character a more affecting instance of patient submission to the will of God than was presented by him through a long period of sickness and trial.  He had spent the greater part of his valuable life in the service of his divine Master and with the greatest usefulness to the Church and although worn out by his labors in the Christian ministry and with a weight of affliction upon him, which it seemed almost impossible to endure.  Yet he never exhibited a discontented or repining disposition of mind but bore up under all his infirmities and sorrows with a most singular magnanimity and courage and appeared actually to forget at times that he was the subject of such exercises at all under the influence of that glorious hope which he cherished of a blissful immortality.  But he has gone from all his sufferings and trials to the enjoyment of that gracious reward which the blessed Redeemer shall bestow upon his faithful servants, as the token of his eternal approbation and his love and we shall do well, therefore in regard to him, to attend to the exhortation of the Apostle "whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation, Jesus Christ the same yesterday, today and forever."

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, August 25, 1847

Marriages

On 11th inst. by the Rev. G.H. Harvey, Mr. Abraham Vanalstine of Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Catharine Yarden of Canajoharie [Montgomery Col. NY].

By the same, on the same day, Mr. Reuben I. Cross to Miss Jane Vanalstine, both of Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

In Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] on the 20th inst. Miss Mary Ann Campbell, aged 32 years.

In Louisville (Butternuts) [Otsego Co. NY] on the 14th inst. Benajah Davis Esq. in the 75th year of his age.

At West Burlington [Otsego Co. NY] June 21st, Elizabeth L. [Smith] wife of Samuel T. Smith, Esq. aged 19 years.  Also, July 28th, Artemas Byron [Smith] son of Samuel T. and Elizabeth L. Smith aged 6 months.

In Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] on the 8th inst, Mrs. Rachel Kendall wife of David Kendall, Esq. in the 55th year of her age.

A Coroner's inquest was held on the 12th inst. by Abner Graves Jr. on the body of Enos S. Spencer aged 13 years 5 months, son of George C Spencer, late of Maryland [Otsego Co. NY] deceased.  Verdict:  Came to his death by hanging himself with a cord fastened to the top rail of a fence.  No cause known nor blame attached to anyone.  Freeman's Journal

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To the Publisher of the Gazette:  Some time ago, I had occasion to travel to the South part of the State, and on my journey, while at Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], I wrote Col. Prentiss a letter containing an account of the death and funeral of George H. Noble, Esquire which was intended for publication in the Freeman's Journal.  A week or two afterwards, Col. P. stated in his paper that my letter had been accidentally mislaid and was lost.  Yesterday I happened to find the draft of the letter addressed to Col Prentiss, which, although several weeks have elapsed since the death of the lamented subject of my communication, by the request of a particular friend of the deceased, I now send you for insertion in your paper.

Unadilla, July 28, 1847:  On my way to Binghamton, I stopped last night at this picturesque and beautiful place, which I had determined before I left home, to spend a day for the sake of enjoying its fine scenery and of calling on some old and valued friends who reside here; but alas! I found the whole village enveloped in the gloom of grief.  Col. George H. Nobel is no more.  He expired yesterday morning, at 4 o'clock.  Although I was aware he had for a long time been the subject of a chronic disease, I did not anticipate so speedy a termination of his life and I hoped once more to have seen and conversed with him.

Col. Nobel was not a professional man, nor had he occupied any public station except in his own Town and County.  His high grade of talent was not therefore known in the State, beyond the circle of his personal acquaintance.  But such of these as were capable of judging, knows and appreciated the strength and vigor of his intellectual powers, the warmth of his friendship and the benevolence of his heart.

I called this morning to view his remains.  His noble and commanding features, his manly brow, his expanded and highly intellectual forehead were there, but that enterprising restless and soaring mind, which gave life and animation to everything around him, which always made him the master spirit of the social circle in which he moved, was fled and nothing was left but a cold lump of clay.

What a humiliating lesson to human ambition and human pride was this sad sight!  There stood his venerable and affectionate brother and his amiable and accomplished wife (the daughter of Judge Paige, the friend of my youth) weeping over the remains of him they loved.  The impression made on my mind can never be effaced.

I attended the funeral this afternoon.  Although Col. N. has left no children, his mourning relatives were numerous and as all know highly respectable.  The Church was crowded to overflowing, an appropriate and eloquent sermon was delivered by the Rev. Mr. Adams. A funeral dirge composed for that special occasion was sung by the choir and the body was committed to its last resting place in accordance with the solemn and impressive forms of the Episcopal Church.  The whole assembly was deeply affected.  Political and personal animosities (if any personal animosities ever existed) were forgotten and extinguished, and all united in lamenting the loss of a kind neighbor, a valued friend and a patriotic citizen.

Col. Noble was in the 44th year of his age, and when he died was Postmaster of the village and supervisor of the town.  J.D.H.

Friday, November 8, 2024

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY 1869 & 1878

 Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, June 16, 1869

Marriages

In Locust Grove, So. Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY] by the Rev. Mr. Robinson, of St. Andrews Church, New Berlin, E.M. Vosburgh of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] to Clara [DeLancey] daughter of Oliver L. DeLancey.

On Tuesday evening, June 8th, at the residence of James R. Morris, Esq. by Rev. N.S. Rulison, Charles Henry Bishop to Catherine Nugent all of Morris, N.Y. [Otsego Co.].

In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] June 2d, by Rev. H.S. Jones, Mr. Henry C. Holmes of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Annie E. Rose of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY].

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] at the residence of the bride's father, P.C. Burton, June 9th, by Rev. A. Reynolds, Mr. Sylvester Ford  to Mrs. Emma H. Hudson.

Deaths

At Harpersville [Broome Co.  NY] June 5th of apoplexy, Mrs. Harriet Furman wife of James R. Furman, formerly of Morris [Otsego Co. NY] aged about 40 years.  Her remains were interred in the Quaker burying ground in this village [Morris].

At her residence in Mt. Vision [Otsego Co. NY], June 2d, Mrs. Hattie C. [Burnside] and daughter of Nathaniel and Charlotte Appleby, aged 31 years 6 months and 5 days.

At Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] June 8th, Geo. W. Reynolds of the firm of Reynolds & Morris, aged 28 years and 9 months.

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] June 13th, Munson R. Watkins aged 67 years.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, June 23, 1869

Deaths

In this village [Morris, Otsego Co. NY] June 17th of Dropsy of the heart, Worthy Bemas youngest son of Solomon Bemas, aged 4 years and a few days.

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] at his residence, suddenly of heart disease June 13th Mr. John Roberts aged 75 years.

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] of scarlet fever, June 13th, Herbert [Allen] only son of A.S. and J. Allen, aged 5 years.

In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] 16th inst. H.H. Angell, aged 61 years.

William Beach a man about 70 years of age was instantly killed by the locomotive of the evening train west, on Saturday 12th inst., at a creek crossing near Wellsbridge [Otsego Co. NY].  He was discovered in the act of crawling across the bridge, and it is supposed was intoxicated.  He was seen too late to stop the train and so terrible was the blow that he fell dead between the timbers of the bridge.  Mr. B. was a native of Franklin [Delaware Co. NY] but becoming very intemperate he abandoned his family many years ago and has led a forlorn, wandering and homeless life which has come to a tragic ending.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, June 30, 1869

Marriage

At Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY] June 22d, by the Rev N. Palmer, Mr. Norman J. Farmer to Miss Sarah M. Siple both of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY]

Death

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY] June 15th Arthur H. [Birdsall] only son of Smith and Martha Birdsall, aged 9 months.

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY] June 10th Treat Smith aged 87 years.

Mr. Edward Loomis was found dead in his bed at the residence of his son in Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Monday morning, June 21st.  He retired at night as usual and was heard to get up at about 4 o'clock.  At 5 o'clock on going to his room he was found dead.  Deceased was 92 years of age and was one of the first settler of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] where he had resided until within a short time.  Oxford Times.

Mrs. Mary Countryman died at the residence of her daughter in Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] on the 19th inst., aged 102 years.  For sixty years she was a resident of Springfield [Otsego Co. NY]. She retained in a remarkable degree her mental and physical powers and it was just before her death that her hair began to turn gray.

The Rev. Lorenzo Bolton one of the best men and most faithful ministers in the Baptist denomination in this county, died at Mohawk on the 11th ult, having resided there since April 1864.  He was born in Burlington [Otsego Co. NY] in 1818 and was once settled over the Baptist church at Milford [Otsego Co. NY].

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, October 3, 1878

Marriages

At the Central Hotel, Richfield Springs [Otsego Co. NY] Sept. 24th, 1878, by Rev. S.R. Ward, Allen Taylor of Fly Creek, N.Y. [Otsego Co.] and Miss Fannie S. Nelson of North Litchfield, N.Y. [Herkimer Co.].

At the home of the bride's parents, Sept. 25th, '78, by Rev John M. Chase, A.L. Emmons and Miss Carrie Thomas, all of Worcester [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] Sept. 26th, Catharine [Allen] wife of David Allen, aged 40 years.

At Fly Creek [Otsego Co. NY] at the residence of Mrs. Jefferson Prosser, Sept. 26th, Jesse Prosser in the 99th year of his age.

In Schenevus, N.Y. [Otsego Co.] Sept. 24th Stephen R. Slingerland aged 57 years.

__________________________

On Tuesday evening of last week, the regular train up on the O.&S.V. RR due at this station at 7:20, ran over and instantly killed Simon C. Ames a young man about 23 years of age, son of Jothan Ames of Phoenix Mills [Otsego Co. NY], near the Beaver Street crossing in this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co NY].

It is supposed from all the particulars that can be learned of the accident, that the deceased had been under the influence of liquor in the afternoon of that day and had evidently started for home, fell upon the track and being stunned by the fall, remained in a semi-unconscious state.  Indications are that the unfortunate man fell face downward upon the east rail and was first struck on the head by the pilot of the engine, cutting the skull completely away and throwing it some distance from the track.  One leg was fearfully torn in pieces and severed from the body while other parts were shockingly disfigured. The remains were found three or four rods from where the man was first struck and all along the track intervening were to be found fragments of the shattered frame.  The sight that there presented itself was a shocking one to behold.

The engineer, Lew Wesserbach, who was running the engine at the time of the accident, did not know he had run over the man until sometime after the train had arrived at the station.  He said he had been keeping a sharp lookout, especially that night, as there were many strangers in town, lest someone might be upon the track.  It being after dark, he had the headlight burning and thinks if the man was lying on the track in the position supposed he would have been an object difficult to distinguish from the planks inserted between the rails at all crossings.

The body was found by B.F. Austin of this village who was going from the depot down the track and when in the rear of Judge Harris's house saw the train approaching, but did not notice anything on the track. After the train passed, he had walked but a short distance when he stepped upon something at first, he thought to be a pile of cinders, but stooping he felt the clothing of the victim to this terrible death.  He immediately went to a house nearby, obtained a lantern and assistance and then they recognized the person of the deceased.  President Shaw of the railroad was informed of the accident, and he sent a man to take charge of the body until the arrival of Coroner Parshall, who was notified and took charge of the remains, summoned a jury, who viewed the body, after which they adjourned until Friday evening last when they rendered a verdict of accidental killing.

Thursday, November 7, 2024

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY 1849 & 1869

 Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, March 17, 1849

Marriages

In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] on the 27th ult. by the Rev. J.S. Mitchell, Mr. William W. Burwell to Miss Mary C. Guile, both of N. Berlin.

In Toddtown, Otsego County [NY], on the 4th instant, by the Rev. R.G. Toles, Mr. Arbra Light of N. Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Marsha Lake of the former place.

In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] on the 22d ult by Rev. J.T. Goodrich, Mr. George W. Medbury of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Adaline Wedge of the former place.

In Burlington [Otsego Co. NY] on the 25th ult. by the Rev. Russell Wheeler Mr. Andrew White of New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Emeline Garner, of the former place.

Death

In the town of Milford [Otsego Co. NY] on the 7th inst. after a lingering illness, Mrs. Martha Ovitt aged 57 years.

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, March 24, 1849

Marriages

In Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] on the 14th inst. by the Rev. L.C. Pattengill of Laurens [Otsego Co. NY], Mr. Leroy R. Sergents of Milford [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Louisa M. Wright of Hartwick.

In Worcester, Otsego County [NY] on the 24th January, by the Rev. Hugh Carlisle, Mr. J.G. Bigelow of Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY] to Miss Henrietta Maria Bigelow, youngest daughter of Dr. U.G. and Henrietta Bigelow, of the former place.

Death

On the 9th inst. at the residence of her father, Dr. U.G. Bigelow, in Worcester, Otsego County [NY], Mrs. Henrietta Maria [Bigelow] wife of J.G. Bigelow, aged 23 years 5 months and 9 days.

"The memory of the just is blessed."  And truly, in her case, Nature and Grace combined in the harmonious productions of a personage the most lovely and of a character the most amiable, sweetly yielding to the force of truth and the influences of the Holy Ghost.  At eleven years of age, she embraced the Savior and his sacred religion publicly professed.  Her pathway was that of the shining light and as every Christian grace became more matured and more developed to all with whom related and associated, she became but the more lovely, interesting and endeared.  Thus, she reached the prime of youthful womanhood, the endeared and beloved of all - yes, and as of the community, so of that church and of that choir, wherewith she stood connected.  She appeared preeminently the flower of the flock.  Her maiden love was yielded and her faith plighted to one not altogether unworthy of her  most sincere affection, and the time hastened on apace when in closest dearest and most permanent bonds their hearts and hands and destinies congenial were to be united.  But ah, there came a blight, a deadly blight, over all their prospects and delightful imaginings - yes, midsummer's heat sent throughout her system a chill, that proved the chill of death, and as fades the beauteous snow flaks neath an vernal sun, so from day to day did Henrietta Maria fade away. Thus, for ten long months upon a dying couch, all that was mortal wasted.  But tho' life was dear and nature strong, yet all was humble, holy, happy, resignation to Heaven's will supreme.  The 24th of January 1849, witnessed those nuptials consummated, which to the dying, the living united, and who can conceive, much less express the sighs, the tears, the sympathies, which since have been so freely interchanged between the parties, still death slept in and closed the mournful scene, nor need we say, what an affectionate daughter and lovely sister and loving and beloved wife, &c, she would have been!  Nay, while her memorial is on earth, her record is in Heaven.  On the 11th inst. her remains were deposited in the silent tomb, while from the bleeding hearts and tearful eyes, and mournful lips of that large funeral assemblage, but one responsive wail arose on high - Thy will, O Lord, be done.

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, March 31, 1849

Marriages

In Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 25th instant, by Reichard H. Denton, Esq. Mr. James A. Newton and Miss Julia Smith, all of Middlefield.

In Burlington [Otsego Co. NY] on the 22d instant, by Rev L. Hutchins, Mr. William M. Johnson and Miss Maria Marcy, both of Burlington.

Elopement

Whereas my wife Sibrano [Baldwin] has left my bed and board without my consent and without good cause, I hereby forbid any & all persons from harboring or trusting her on my account and give notice that I shall pay no debts contracted by or for her, or such of my children as she has taken with her, as ample provisions are made for them all at my residence in Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY].  Dated Middlefield, March 29th, 1849, German Baldwin.

Deaths

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] on the 28th instant, Frances [Henicker] youngest daughter of Edward and Lavantia Henicker, aged 11 months and 4 days.

Could friends but see their Frances there / Where all are happy - free from care; / They could not wish her back again / In this dark world of sin and pain.

In Garrattsville [Otsego Co. NY] on the 20th instant, Catharine Alice [Bingham] youngest daughter of Henry and Lovina Bingham, aged 11 months and 4 days.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, June 2, 1860

Marriages

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY], May 24th, by Rev. O.K. Crosby, Francis F. Page of So. Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY], to Alice D. Pascoe of Garrattsville [Otsego Co. NY].

In Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] May 5th by Rev. C.N. Livingston, James H. Thorp to Miss Armarilla D. Hurd all of Butternuts.

Death

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY] May 30th, Mrs. David Wakelee aged 70 years.

The funeral services of Lansing Light took place at the M.E. Church in this village [New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY] on the 21st inst.  Mr. L. was formerly a resident of this place and removed to Morris [Otsego Co. NY] a few years since at which place he died.  His remains were placed by the side of his friends in our village cemetery. New Berlin Pioneer

News Item

On the 24th ult. as Milo Kelley of Schenevus [Otsego Co. NY] was conveying the remains of Mrs. Pierce to South Worcester [Otsego Co. NY] for interment and while going down a steep hill near the Simpson Factory, one of the iron braces holding the tongue gave way, throwing Mr. K. from his seat and turning over the hearse.  He succeeded in stopping the team.  The hearse was badly damaged, breaking the glass, smashing the forward wheels and otherwise injuring it. The corpse, strange to say, was not thrown from the hearse.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, June 9, 1869

Marriages

At Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] May 30th, by Rev. L.B. Yale, Caleb Batterson Esq. of Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] to Lydia A. Hale of the former place.

At the residence of John Rockwell, Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] May 29th by Rev. G.M. Peck, Mr. Chester Shaver of Meredith [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Mary Hubbell of Sidney [Delaware Co. NY].

In South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] May 1st by Ira P. Rich, Esq. Mr. George Bice of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] to Mrs. Lydia Wrench of the former place.

Deaths

In Garrattsville [Otsego Co. NY] May 29th, Mrs. Uriah Gregory, aged 82 years.

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY] June 2d, of scarlet fever, Alice  Hollister in the 17th year of her age.

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY] May 7th, with tumor on his neck, William Baker, aged 61 years.

At his residence in Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] May 31st, S.C. Fenton aged 72 years.

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY, 1849

 Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, February 3, 1849

Death of Wells B. Hammond, Esq.

We are called to the painful duty of announcing the sudden death of Wells S. Hammond, Esq. of Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY], son of the Hon. Jabez Hammond, whilst on a professional visit to this city.  He expired on Sunday morning at Stanwix Hall under a paralytic attack with which he was seized early in the morning, whilst in bed - or immediately on rising - which left him in a state of partial insensibility, form which no attention or treatment could avail to relieve him.  He survived but a few hours.

It is seldom that death comes in a form more harrowing to the feelings of relatives and friends, or so well calculated to move in their behalf the public sensibilities.  A friend who knew Mr. Hammond well and who is among those who deeply deplore his untimely death, sends us the following account of the painful circumstances attending it, with a brief tribute to his sterling qualities, professional attainments and personal worth.

"Mr. Hammond came to this city [Albany, Albany Co. NY] last Thursday on professional business and stopped at Stanwix Hall.  He retired on Saturday night about 11 o'clock, apparently in good health. At about 6 o'clock in the morning, the gentleman who slept in the adjoining room (Hon. Gideon Hard) heard some person groaning as if in distress.  Mr. Hard knocked on the door which led from his room into the one occupied by Mr. Hammond, but receiving no response and the groaning having ceased, he retired.  But soon he heard the same sound of distress again.  He then rang his own bell and called a waiter and sent for Mr. Rogers, the proprietor, who immediately forced the door and found Mr. Hammond lying on the floor and almost speechless.  Doctors McNaughton and Cogswell were immediately called in and every effort made to restore him to consciousness, but in vain.  He lingered about an hour and expired."

"It is supposed that he had a paralytic fit which nearly deprived him at once both of speech and the use of his limbs.  He was heard to speak several times, though quite indistinctly.  One half of his body, or rather one side, and also his tongue, seemed to be perfectly paralyzed.  He died about 10 A.M."

"Mr. Hammond was about 32 years old and was the only son of the Hon Jabez D. Hammond, the well-known author.  His death will be severely felt, not only in his native town and village, but throughout that county in which he was extensively known and highly esteemed.  He was a young gentleman of the highest order of talents and of great promise in his profession and he will long be remembered for his many virtues and amiable qualities by those who knew him best."

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, February 10, 1849

Marriages

On Thursday, the 8th inst. in Christ Church [Cooperstown, Otsego co. NY] by Rev. Stephen H. Battin, Henry Frederick Phinney to Caroline Martha [Cooper] daughter of James Fenimore Cooper.

In Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] on the 24th ult. by the Rev. J.A. Bartlett, Mr. Lewis L. Bundy of Port Byron, Cayuga County [NY] to Miss Cynthia A. Luther of Hartwick, youngest daughter of Moses Luther Esq. of the former place.

In Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] on the 6th inst. by the Rev. Seth Gregory, Mr. Geo. Weatherspoon to Miss Catharine Van Horn both of the former place.

In the same place on the 7th inst. by the Rev. R.G. Toles Mr. Edwin Luke to Miss Lucretia Stone all of Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY].

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, February 17, 1840

Marriage

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] on the 14th instant, by Rav D.C. Tomlinson, F.B. Carpenter Esq. to Miss N. Loraine Gunn both of Maryland [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] on Tuesday evening 13th inst. in the 48th year of her age, after a lingering illness, Nancy W. [Phinney] wife of Elihu Phinney.

In Springfield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 9th inst. Miss Maranda Genter aged 22 years.

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, February 24, 1849

Marriage

In Milford [Otsego Co. NY] on the 14th inst. by Rev. J.T. Wright, Mr. J.D. Chaffee of Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Maria L. Wilcox of Milford.

Death

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] on Thursday, the 22d inst. Mrs. Parmelia Bingham, relict of King Bingham, deceased, in the 63d year of her age.

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, March 3, 1849

Marriages

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] on Tuesday, the 30th ult. by the Rev. D.W. Bristol, Mr. Henry Elwell of Otsego to Miss Angeline Martin of Milford [Otsego Co. NY].

By the same, on the 27th inst. Mr. Theodore Marvin to Miss M.E. Stewart, both of Otsego [Otsego Co. NY].

At Schuyler's Lake [Otsego Co. NY] on the 22d inst. by Rev. Mr. Bartlett, Mr. James P. Downs of South Columbia [Herkimer Co. NY] to Miss Mary B. Austie of the former place.

Death

In Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY] of lingering consumption, Mrs. Wealthy [Deming] wife of colonel Eri Demming, on the morning of the 5th inst. in the 49th year of her age.

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, March 10, 1849

Marriages

In Maryland [Otsego Co. NY] Feb. 8th by Rev. Judson Davis, Mr. S.C. Boorn of East Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Laura Brooks of Westford [Otsego Co. NY]

Also, in the same place, by the same, Feb. 28th, William P. Kingsley of Otsego [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Harriet Milks of Maryland [Otsego Co. NY].

Death

At Burlington Flats [Otsego Co. NY] on the 3d inst. of consumption, Abby [Arnold] wife of Benjamin Arnold in the 56th year of her age.

Tuesday, November 5, 2024

Vital Records, Delaware (1827) & Broome (1839) Counties, NY

 Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, November 14, 1827

Death 

In Andes [Delaware Co. NY] on the 27th ult. Mrs. Sally Vaughn wife of Mr. John Vaughn, in the 28th year of her age.  The death of Mrs. Vaughn is one of the many instances of mortality which should be considered not only as a private but a public loss.  In her the engaging qualities of a wife, a companion, a mother, and a neighbor, were blended with the utmost harmony.  But the most distinguishing trait in her character was her firm and unvaried attachment to the cause of her Divine Master. She bore her long and painful illness with a calmness and submission which the Christian only knows. She ever manifested the most cheerful willingness to depart and be with Christ, and with the most perfect composure resigned her spirit into the hands of her Redeemer. 

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, November 28, 1827

Death

In Meredith [Delaware Co. NY] on the 19th inst. Mrs. Sarah Stewart consort of Mr. Nathaniel Stewart, Sen. in the 35th year of her age.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, December 5, 1827

Marriage

In New York on the 28th ultimo by the Rev. Mr. Hart, Mr. M.M. Noah to Miss Rebecca Jackson all of that city.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, December 12, 1827

Elopement

Whereas my wife Orilla [Lowden] has left my bed and board without my content and without any cause or provocation on my part.  I therefore forbid all persons harboring or trusting her on my account as I shall not pay any debts of her contract after this date.  James S. Lowden, Davenport [Delaware Co. NY] Dec. 6, 1827

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, December 19, 1827

Death

In this village [Catskill, Greene Co. NY] on Sunday the 9th inst. Mr. Richard Field joint editor of this paper, aged 26 years.  An industrious citizen, a good citizen, and an honest man, he was universally respected while in the more private walks of life he discharged the offices of an affectionate relative and a faithful friend.  His character was of that unobtrusive kind which makes no very bold impression upon the casual observer, but which endears itself to the hearts of those more intimately acquainted with its excellencies  He died with full confidence in that Redeemer whose blood washes away the sins of those who trust in him, and in the hope of a brighter resurrection he has gone to that land where the wicked cease from troubling and the weary are at rest.  Catskill Recorder.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, December 26, 1827

Marriage

At Tompkins [Delaware Co. NY] on Sunday the 30th by Darius Smith Esq of Masonville, Master Peter Smith aged 17 to Miss. Be... Evelsion both of the former place.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, March 11, 1839

Marriages

On the 31st ult by the Rev. Solon Stocking, Mr. Jeremiah Wilber to Miss Joanna Wilder.

On the 9th inst. by the same, Mr. Anson Pope to Miss Saphronia Brown all of this town [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY].

Death

At Wilmington, Delaware on the 2d instant, Hezekiah Niles, Esq. Late of Baltimore and well known as editor and proprietor for many years of "Nile's Register."

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, March 14, 1839

Marriage

At Owego, Tioga County [NY] on the 28th ult. by the Rev. Mr. White, J.K. Rugg Esq., of this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] to Miss Stella A. [Platt] daughter of Wm. Platt, Esq. of the former place.

Death

In the town of Union [Broome Co. NY] on the 27th ult. Mrs. Sibyl Niles aged 64 years.

News Item

Election Day Murder

On Tuesday evening last, in the village of Greene, Chenango Co. [NY] after the result of the election was known, the successful party celebrated their victory in a chamber of the public house where the election was held, by drinking and carousing in the most boisterous manner.  Some three or four of the opposite party, it seems, from curiosity or some other motive also went into the room.  As soon as they were noticed, the order was given "out with the Whigs," when the rioters seized a man by the name of Arnold Horton, who in obedience to the order, was in the act of retiring, and threw him head foremost over the bannisters.  His back, and several of the vertebra of the neck were broken by the fall. He was taken up for dead, but afterwards recovered his senses and survived the injuries received three days.  Strange as it may seem, the actors in this tragedy continued their rioting, even after they supposed Horton was dead; marched through the streets, shouting and huzzaing, until a late hour.  As the coroner's jury have not yet rendered their verdict and as the matter ill undoubtedly be investigated by the proper authorities, we refrain for the present, from further remark. The deceased we learn was a respectable, industrious, hard-working citizen and has left a wife and eight small children to mourn his untimely death.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, April 18, 1839: The Courier says, "the murder (as the Whig papers are determined to call it) at Greene, turns out to be a fatal accident and nothing more, with strict adherence to facts, can be made of it."

Now what are the facts? The verdict of the coroner's jury, which we annex, and the testimony of the witnesses, furnish a reply:

The jurors "do say upon their oaths, that a certain person or certain persons to them unknown, on the fifth day of March inst. at the hour of about seven o'clock in the evening of the same day, with force and arms at the house of Philo Calender in the village of Greene in and upon the body of the aforesaid Arnold Horton, then and there feloniously and violently made an assault, and forced him from the ball room of said house so as to cause him to fall over the stair railing upon the stairs into the hall below. which fall occasioned such wounds, injuries and fractures as to cause his death."

Ebenezer McCormick, a witness testified, "that he was in the room during the evening; that someone moved to put all the Whigs out of the room.  Someone clinched Horton who was standing on the east side of the room saying, "you are a damned Whig and must go out of here."  He was forced to the door by a number of persons, rapidly.  Witness heard someone say that "they have thrown him downstairs; he is a damned Whig and hope he is dead."  Witness heard him fall.  The crowd came back and commenced their huzzes."

Several other witnesses made oath to the same facts, and they were corroborated by the dying words of the victim of the outrage.  No wonder then that the Courier wishes to change the responsibility and impute to accident the result of a deliberate design.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, March 21, 1839

Marriage

In Conklin on the 10th inst. by Henry B. Smith, Esq. Mr. George S. Shannon to Miss Electa C. Chamberlain all of Conklin [Broome Co. NY].

Death

Recently in Windsor, Broome Co. N.Y. Capt. James Knox in the 87th year of his age.

Capt. Knox was a soldier during the whole of the Revolution and was for some years attached to the Lifeguard of the Commander in Chief, of which he was a Sergeant.  On retiring from the army, he received the warm testimonials of Gen. Washington for his fidelity and courage.  Capt. Knox was one of the first settlers in the now town of Windsor, whither he came soon after the close of the war.  He was the first Captain of the militia in this section of Broome Co.  Capt. Knox was probably the last survivor of that memorable band who stood around the Commander in Chief in the perilous times which "tried men's souls."  He was a pure republican, a warm patriot, and an honest man.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, March 28, 1839

Death

At Grovesville, Illinois, on the 22d ult. Mr. Alonzo C. Bacon formerly of this village [Binghamton Broome Co. NY] aged about 30 years.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, April 4, 1839

Marriage

In the town of Conklin [Broome Co. NY] on the 27th ult by Josiah West, Jr. Esq. Mr. Perry Heath of Windsor [Broome Co. NY] to Miss Sarah Jane Conklin of the former place.

Monday, November 4, 2024

Vital Records, Delaware (1827) & Chenango (1878) Counties, NY

 Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, September 5, 1827

Deaths

In Walton [Delaware Co., NY] on the 18th ult. of typhus fever, Eleanor [North] wife of Benjamin North, Esquire, in the 40th year of her age.

In Kortright [Delaware Co. NY] on the 30th ult. Miss Margaret M. Stewart, aged 22 years.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, September 26, 1827

Marriage

In Oxford, Chenango Co. [NY] on the 20th inst. by the Rev. Leverett Bush, Benjamin Cory esq. editor of the Chenango Republican, to Miss Leafa Balcom, daughter of Mr. Francis B. Balcom, all of that village.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, October 3, 1827

Marriages

In Blenheim [Schoharie Co. NY], on Sunday evening last, by the Rev. Mr. Paige, Mr. James Smith of Roxbury [Delaware Co. NY], merchant to Miss Eliza Poppeno of the former place.

In Franklin [Delaware Co. NY] on Thursday evening last, by the Rev. Daniel Waterbury, Mr. Edwin Benedict to Miss Eliza A. Phelps all of that place.

At Leesville, New Jersey on the 26th ult. Theodore Shute Esq. of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] to Rachael Ann [Lee] daughter of Adam Lee, Esq. of the former place.

Death

On the 11th ult in the town of Kortright [Delaware Co. NY] Mr. Thomas McClaughry aged 80 years.

At the age of 16, Mr. McClaughry emigrated with his parents from Ireland and settled in Washington County, in this state [NY].  In the Revolution, he took arms against the government of his native country for the cause of liberty.  After peace was concluded, he removed to this county [Delaware Co. NY] then a wilderness and was one of the first settlers in the town where he spent the remainder of his life.  3He was an example to the world so far as religious principles tend to inspire public spirit and a uniform course of virtuous conduct to produce independence of character.  To him the poor have never cried without finding relief.  With him industry has lost an eminent example, public virtue a patron, and religion an advocate.

He had raised and settled nine children around him.  He had seventy-one grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren - of which number, seventy-four survive to emulate his example.  His habits were always temperate and seldom did the morning sun rise on his pillowed head.  Consequently, corporeal debility scarcely in his whole life confined him for a day.  Finally, nature became exhausted without disease, without pian, and in a gentle sleep his spirit departed.  To say more, would be a recapitulation of what many know already - to say less, would be suppressing another evidence in favor of patriotism, virtue and religion.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, October 3, 1878

Marriages

At the residence of Frank Hallenbeck in this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 17th, by Rev. G.A. Pelton, Mr. Charles A. Johnson and Miss Cora D. [Wright] youngest daughter of Mrs. Calista Wright, all of Greene.

At Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY] Sept. 18th, by Rev. Samuel Johnson, Mr. George C. Northrup of Topeka, Kansas to Miss Addie A. Alvord of Sidney Plains, both formerly of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY].

In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 25th by Rev. S.C. Fulton, Mr. Wm. W. Skillin and Miss Ida E. Smith both of Greene.

Deaths

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 15th, Mr. Henry Davis aged 61 years.

In Dowagiac, Mich Sept. 17th, Emma C. [Tower] wife of Prof C.O. Tower, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] aged 30 years.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, September 26, 1878

Marriage

On Monday evening the 23d inst. Mr. and Mrs. Philetus Yale, having been earnestly solicited by kind neighbors to take a ride to an adjacent village, although thinking it a strange freak decided to go with them, and while gone their home was taken possession of by numerous relatives, friends and neighbors, who on their return met them with congratulations and kind wishes for many happy returns of this their 20th anniversary of their wedding.  All having assembled, the Master of Ceremonies, Mr. S.M. Warren, requesting silence, the Rev. Mr. Guy, a brother of the bride, offered a fervent opening prayer, after which the Rev. Luman Yale, the officiating clergyman of twenty years ago, made some earnest interesting remarks to which, by request of the bridegroom, Rev. Mr. Haynes responded, after which Rev. Grummon and Guy also made a few remarks.  China being in order, a beautiful gold banded tea set, with other articles of the same ware, was found upon the table.  Flowers, music, supper and a general social time filled up the very pleasant evening.  No doubt the young and old bachelors present were ardently wishing for their first anniversary, but alas! for the twentieth of some of them, Too late! too late!

Deaths

Clark McMullen died at his residence in Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY] on Sunday last, at the age of about 37 years.

Last Friday, a little two-year-old son of Mr. Shapley, living in the town of Sanford [Broome Co. NY] came to his death by falling into a pail of scalding water that was standing on the kitchen floor.

On Sunday last occurred the death of Elam Yale for a number of years past an honored and respected townsman of Sidney [Delaware Co. NY], but equally as well known in Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] and the surrounding country.  His decease was the result of an illness of several weeks of dropsy.  He was about 50 years of age.

Sunday, November 3, 2024

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY 1817, 1835 & 1878

 Oxford Gazette, Oxford, NY, October 15, 1817

Marriage

On Sunday last, by Mr. Sherwood, Esq. Mr. Charles F.T. Locke to Miss Addeliza Wood, both of this town [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

At Middlebury, Vt. Mr. Solomon M. Allen, professor of languages in the College.  His death was caused by falling from the new college edifice.  

At Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY], Mr. Samuel R. Brown, aged 41, author of a late work, the "Western Gazetteer" &c.

At Ellisburgh [Jefferson Co. NY], Joshua Bealls, Esq. aged 62, a judge of Jefferson County Common Pleas.

Oxford Gazette, Oxford, NY, December 17, 1817

Marriage

At Elmira, Tioga County [NY] on Friday evening the 5th instant, by the Rev. Mr. Woodruff, Mr. Erastus Shepard of Ithaca [Tompkins Co., NY] one of the printers of the American Journal, to Miss Eliza M. Carpenter daughter of Gen. Matthew Carpenter of the former place.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, October 21, 1835

Marriages

In Butternuts, Otsego County [NY] on Tuesday morning, 13th instant, by the Rev. Mr. Warren, Mr. George Wells of Preston [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Frances Donaldson of the former place.

In Solon, Cortland County [NY] on Wednesday last, by the Rev. Mr. Johnson, Mr. Thomas Rockwell of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY] to Miss Lucia Holbert of the former place.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, October 28, 1835

Marriage

In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on Monday morning last, by Elder J.S Swan, Mr. Elias Breed to Miss Susan Enos, daughter of Mr. Roswell Enos, all of this town.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, September 25, 1878

Marriages

SEELEY - NEWTON:  In Morris [Otsego Co. NY] Sept. 16th, by Rev. W. Scott, Mr. Henry Seeley of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Lucia C. Newton of South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY].

LARAWAY - WARNER:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 11th, by Rev. A.M. Colgrove, Mr. J.M. Laraway to Miss Josephine E. Warner, all of Guilford.

CALE - DOUGLASS:  At the residence of the bride's parents in Jamestown, N.Y., Sept 11, by Rev. A.A. Horton of Randolph, Mr. Wallace T. Cale and Miss Emily C. [Douglass] eldest daughter of Edwin Douglass, Esq. of Jamestown.

Deaths

UTTER:  In King Settlement [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 11th, Mr. Samuel Utter, aged 75 years.

BRETT:  In Holmesville [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 2d, Mrs. Lydia A. Brett, aged 81 years.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, October 5, 1878

Deaths

Christopher C. Foster

FOSTER:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY] on the 3d inst. C.C. Foster, aged 76 years, 4 months and 18 days.

Mr. Foster died at the residence of his daughter, Mrs. Charles Bowen in Columbus [Chenango Co. NY] on the 3d inst. of paralysis, after some six months illness, at the advanced age of 76.  He was a graduate of Union College at Schenectady. This end he attained, without any aid, by his indomitable perseverance, which enabled him to overcome obstacles, before which, most young men of the present day would utterly fail.  An ardent desire for an education soon found him qualified and employed as a Common and Select School teacher.  In this department he was very successful and taught a number of terms in the same district.  The writer of this, attended three terms under his instruction and today, with many others, are feeling the value of the attainments received form him and can attest with them that his life has not been without its good fruits.  His sympathies were always identified with educational matters and his townsmen honored his attainments by placing their schools for a number of years under his supervision.  His energy in early life in attaining the qualifications of usefulness is worthy the emulation of the young of the present day.  Six children, one son and five daughters survive him.  T.J. Lamb.

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Diphtheria has been doing its deathly work in the eastern part of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY] commencing at the sadly broken household of John Flowers.  It first attacked Smith Flowers, who is now convalescing.  Its next victims were a sister of S. Flowers, daughter of John Flowers and wife of Wm. Russell of this place.  The latter was sick only three days when death entered.  The next was one of the same household a twin sister and wife of Phelinas Wilkes, who, we are glad to hear, is recovering.  Mr. Russell leaves children who are well cared for by Peter Russell.  This is the fourth time the family of John Flowers has been called to attend the death messenger in a very short time.  Both John Flowers and his son Smith have lost their wives.  Mrs. Russell was there to keep the household together. The friends have the entire sympathy of the community.  It looks hard to say God is love in such cases and where the yellow fever is taking whole communities; but when we remember what God has done for us that the real may live in a better world, we can surely say He is Love. and exclaim, "Oh death, where is thy sting? Oh, grave, where is thy victory?"

Saturday, November 2, 2024

Relics of the Revolution - the DeForest Brothers

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, October 7, 1835

Relics of the Revolution - The DeForest Brothers

We have materials before us from which we think we can sketch a brief little tale that shall be interesting to all - a tale of incidents connected with the Revolution.

Four brothers by the name of DeForest met in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] last week at the Eagle Tavern on a visit.  They were all born in the town of Stratford in the State of Connecticut.  The eldest Mr. Samuel DeForest was born July 18, 1758; Mr. Abel DeForest (father of Gen. DeForest of the Eagle) April 28, 1761; Mr. Mills DeForest May 24, 1763, and Mr. Gideon DeForest, September 14, 1765 - making the first named 77 years of age, the second 74, the third 72 and the fourth 70.  Mr. Samuel DeForest is a resident of Ballston, Saratoga County [NY], Mr. Abel DeForest of Edmeston, Otsego County (NY] Mr. Mills DeForest of Lemington, Essex County, Vermont; and Mr. Gideon DeForest, also of Edmeston, Otsego County.

These four brothers were all Soldiers in the Revolution!  While they were mere boys, they rallied to the field in defense of their own parental roof and of their country's rights.  the oppressive exactions of a proud and haughty Tyrant, who demanded the submission of the Colonies to his decrees, fired their souls with indignation and energy and moved their arms for conflict.  They disdained submission and with the heroic spirits of that day, determined to strike a bold stroke for Liberty.

Mr. Samuel DeForest was in the service two years and six months.  He was in the battle at the burning of Fairfield and was one who had charge of a boat on the night of Gen. Washington's well-planned and memorable retreat from Long island to New York in Aug. 1776.  Mr. Abel DeForest was in the service three years and three months and although he had not the good fortune to meet the enemy in battle array, he was constantly on duty and saw hard service.  Mr. Mills DeForest was in the service three years and seven months.  He was in several battles and skirmished, as also was Mr. Gideon DeForest, who served two years and two months. During the years 1778 and 1780, Mr. Abel DeForest and his brother Mills, served together in the same regiment in the old Continental Army and on the 2d day of Oct. 1780 (55 years ago last Friday) they both stood by and witnessed the execution of Maj. Andre.  They saw the last sad end of that unfortunate man and related to us and to others some of the circumstances connected with it.

Besides the periods during which these brothers were in actual service, as before related, they were repeatedly called out on sudden alarms and engaged in various skirmishes with the enemy.

They have all seen Gen. Washington and are able to relate even the minutiae of many interesting incidents in the life of that great and good man - "The Father of his Country."  They also knew many of the leading men of that time, and most of the officers who led on our armies to victory and immortal honor.

We have said that the brothers rallied to the field while they were mere boys.  They did so, stimulated and encouraged by her who gave them birth.  Often has their mother, when an alarm has bene sounded in the dead hour of night, sprung from her bed and cheered her sons on to battle - and while they have been engaged in preparing their guns for the onset, she was preparing food for their knapsacks to sustain them in their absence!  At one time, just as they were about to take their departure in haste, perhaps from her forever, she addressed them thus:  "My sons!  If you meet the enemy, I hope you will do honor to yourselves and your country!"  What an instance of female bravery - of heroic firmness was this!  The fullness of her hope was realized. They did honor  to themselves and their country; and though they endured all sorts of hardships, they yet live.  Thank Heaven! to enjoy that liberty which their own arduous labors aided to procure.

The Brothers have all resided at their present places of residence upwards of 40 years, and until their recent meeting, they had not all been together for more than half a century.

We have now to add one more fact to complete the singular coincidence of circumstances which we have related; and that is all the brothers have been allowed pensions by the Government for their Revolutionary services, and the amount of each is the same as the others - $80 per annum.

While they remained in this village - a period of nearly three days - the greatest respect and attention were shown them by our citizens.  All classes were highly pleased with them, and when they told how battles were fought and "fields were won" it seemed more like romance than reality.  For the kindness with which they were treated, they desired us to return to the citizens of our village in their behalf, their most heartfelt acknowledgements, which we do with pleasure.

The brothers have a strong family resemblance.  They are upwards of six feet in height, strongly built, and have seen the day when it would not have been prudent for three times their number of red coats to come in contact with them.  With one exception, they still walk with a firm step.  That exception is the eldest, who is evidently failing.  They are all men of extraordinary intelligence - able to converse freely and sensibly, not only upon long past events, but upon more recent and the present occurrences of the day.

We always love to listen to tales of Revolutionary daring and danger.  We can never look upon a little group of old Soldiers with ordinary feelings of emotion; but we can truly say that we were never so delightfully entertained by the recital of such scenes and the appearance of those who participated in them, as were by the four brothers - those interesting and venerable relics of the Revolution.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, 1835 & 1878

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, October 7, 1835

Deaths

At South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] on Wednesday last after a short but painful illness, Mrs. Patience Dexter wife of Peleg Dexter, aged 43 years, 3 months and 25 days.

In the death of this amiable and pious woman, the husband has lost a valuable companion, her children a kind and tender mother and the church a worthy member.  We trust she died as she had lived for more than 18 years - an exemplary and devoted Christian.  In the spring of 1817, as she frequently expressed it, the Lord for Christ's sake pardoned her sins.  She soon after united with the Methodist Episcopal Church in which she remained much respected and beloved until she was called to join the Church triumphant where congregations never break up nor Sabbaths ever end.

News Item

A Soldier's Unclaimed Deposit:  We observe among the advertised "unclaimed Deposites" of money in the State Bank of this city [Albany,  Albany Co. NY], $100 by the late Gen. Zebulon Montgomery Pike, the gallant soldier who "fell in the arms of victory" at the battle of Little York. This amount was deposited by Gen. Pike, in 1812 when on his way to the frontier.  But he did not live to claim his money.  His widow has since died, and the only surviving member of his family is that daughter whom he so affectionately and touchingly mentioned in the letter written to his wife just before he went into the battle and committed to his Aid-de-camp, Maj. Frazer, to be sent if he fell.  That orphan daughter is now both a widow and an orphan.  She married the son of Gen. William Henry Harrison, who was the friend and soldier brother of her gallant father. Young Harrison whose virtues and talents promised to reflect honor upon the two illustrious names which had been thus appropriately associated, found an early grave at Vincennes, Indiana, where the most honorable public testimonies were paid to his memory.  His widow, in her last and saddest bereavement, found a home under the parental roof of Gen. Harrison, who like her own lamented father, after devoting his life to his country, finds no other reward than the consciousness of having done his duty.  Should this paragraph meet the eye of any of the friends of Mrs. Harrison, they will take pleasure in communicating the fact that she can obtain this small legacy for "A Soldier's Daughter" by applying to the State Bank at Albany.  Albany Journal

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, September 25, 1878

Marriages

MILLS - BROWN:  In DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY], Sept. 11th, 1878, by Elder T. Fisher, Mr. James H. Mills and Miss Rachel E. Brown, both of Cuyler, N.Y. [Cortland Co.].

WOOD - DANIELS:  In Georgetown [Madison Co. NY] Sept. 15th, 1878, by Elder T. Fisher, Mr. Levi Wood of Georgetown, N.Y. and Miss Mary M. Daniels of DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY].

BILLINGS - SIMONS:  At the bride's residence in Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] Sept. 19t6h, 1878, by Rev. J.M. Stiffler, Mr. Bradley Billings and  Mrs. E.C. Simons.

Deaths

INGERSOLL:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on Tuesday morning, Sept. 24th after a brief illness of heart disease, Helen M. [Ingersoll, aged 52 years, 8 months.

In our obituary columns today, announcement is made of the death of Mrs. Helen M. Ingersoll, wife of Fred W. Ingersoll of this village.  Mrs. I. was the daughter of the late James M.D. Carr, one of the pioneers of our village.  Born in our village, she spent her early youth here, and was always foremost in good works and deeds of kindness.  After a long absence she returned here to reside a few years since, and was warmly received by all who were fortunate enough to have been her associate in former days. The new commers found in her a genial hearted lady, always ready and willing to enter into any good work. Wherever suffering was, she was found as a good angel, ready to relieve if in her power.  Some six weeks since the malady which she long had feared took definite shape and prostrated her upon what proved to be her dying bed and calmly and peacefully on Tuesday mornign she exchanged her earthly crown for a more enduring one, "over the river."  She was in her fifty-third year.  In her death, Mr. Ingersoll loses an affectionate wife, the daughter a loving mother, the community a pains taking, worthy citizen, zealous of good works.  In the church, the community and home circle she will be greatly missed.  [-rest unreadable-]

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Unadilla Valley [NY] Diphtheria which appeared on the hills around us in its usual malignant form two weeks ago, has not carried off any more victims.  In the family of Mrs. Williams, a young daughter and an infant granddaughter have died.  All the other cases are recovering.

Coventry, Chenango Co. NY]:  Hon. Charles Pearsall, recently received intelligence of the death of his brother Andrew Pearsall at Memphis Tenn, a victim to yellow fever.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, September 28, 1878

Marriages

WILLIAMS - HEARN:  At the residence of the bride's parents, Sept. 18th, by Rev. J.F. Taunt, Mr. Charles L . Williams to Miss Kate A. Hearn, all of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

PECK - LEWIS:  At the residence of the bride's parents in Smithville Flats [Chenango Co. NY], Thursday evening. Sept. 19 by Rev. Daniel Ballou of Utica, N.Y. Mr. Clarence F. Peck of Greene [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Josie [Lewis] daughter of J.B. Lewis, Esq.

DAVIS - LEWIS:  At the same time and place by the same.  Mr. Nathan E. Davis of Greene [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Sybil [Lewis] daughter of J.B. Lewis, Esq.

Smithville Flats, Chenango Co. NY:  A double wedding took place in our village last Thursday evening at the residence of the brides' father, J.B. Lewis, Clarence Peck of Green to Josephine, and Nathan Davis to Sybil Lewis, ceremony by Mr. Ballou of Utica.  After the connubial knot, the guests were entertained by a splendid table of refreshments.  They have congratulations and well wishes of host of friends.  May their days be happy.

WAITE - ADAMS:  At Greene [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 20th, by the Rev. H.N. VanDeusen, Luther I. Waite and Belle M. Adams both of Whitney's Point [Broome Co. NY].

HOWARD - ANTHONY:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY] at the M.E. Church Sept. 25 by Rev. W.G. Queal, Mr. Eugene Howard to Miss Hattie E. [Anthony] daughter of Thomas Anthony, all of Plymouth.

Plymouth, Chenango Co. NY:  On Wednesday evening the M.E. Church was densely crowded to witness the marriage of Miss Hattie E. Anthony the accomplished daughter of Thomas Anthony to Mr. Eugene Howard a worthy your farmer of this place.  The happy couple were tastefully arrayed and presented a grand appearance as they marched to the altar to the music of the wedding carol as played upon the organ by Miss Alice Queal. The ceremony was performed by the M.E. paster, Rev. G.W. Queal in the quiet and tasty manner peculiar of him. After the ceremony, bride and groom were congratulated by their many friends and all joined in wishing them a pleasant and prosperous voyage through life, and such doubtless their voyage will be as we have rarely seen a couple start out whose prospects were better.  Accompanied by Parker Newton and wife on Thursday morning they joined the Niagara excursion and will be absent several days.  May happiness and prosperity always attend them is the wish of all.

AGARD - NOYES:  Smithville Flats, Chenango Co. NY:  John T. Agard from Oakland, Cal. made a flying visit to his sister's, Mrs. J.L. Grant; was married to Lucretia Noyes of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] last Wednesday evening and started with his bride for Cal. the same evening.

Deaths

BREWSTER:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] suddenly, Sept. 23d, Mr. Alvin Brewster, aged 75 years.

FRISBIE:  In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 20th, Mrs. Romelia [Frisbie] widow of the late Dr. Levi Frisbie, aged 41 years.

BARBER: In Portville, Cattaraugus Co. [NY] Sept. 7th, Mr. Moses Barber, aged 84 years, formerly of Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY].

PAYNE:  In Holmesville [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 25th of paralysis, Arthur D. Payne, aged 70 years and 6 months.

NICHOLSON: Preston, Chenango Co. NY:  William Nicholson, better known as Uncle Bill, died at the County House the 22d aged about 90 years, and was buried in the Lewis burying ground the 24th.  He was born in Connecticut and came to this town when a boy and helped to clear the land and build the roads.  He was the first man that rode in a wagon the length of what we call Roger Street.

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Death of Capt. Bliven

The subject of this brief sketch died at the American House, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on Wednesday evening last, never having regained consciousness since the injuries he received from an accident eight days previous, an account of which has appeared in our columns.  The deceased, Capt. Wm. C. Bliven, who was personally known to many of our readers in Chenango and adjoining counties, was born in Westerly, R.I. in November 1818.  Early in years he manifested a desire for the life of a sailor, accordingly at the age of 12, he shipped in a whaler as cabin boy, and for nearly 20 years thereafter he followed the seas either in the whaling or merchant service, until he had been promoted to the position of master of a vessel.  Some thirty years since he came to this county and settled in Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] where he lived for many years and buried his first wife and two children and continued to reside until nine years since when he purchased the American Hotel and assumed its management which he continued up to the time of the accident which caused his death.  The deceased was a kindhearted though eccentric representative of the old school gentleman, a connecting link between the past and present generation, and though a man of positive convictions and ready at all times to maintain them, yet he was a kind neighbor, a loving husband and an indulgent father and his loss is a bereavement to the community.  He has for a long time been a member of the Masonic and Odd Fellows lodges and was buried under their auspices at Smyrna on Friday afternoon.  a large number of our people attending the funeral.

A Sad Accident

On Wednesday morning last, a painful and distressing accident occurred to Capt. W.C. Bliven, the old and well-known proprietor of the American Hotel in this village [Norwich, NY].  He had been out driving and was returning, when driving into the lane that leads to the hotel stables, he called to Mr. Clark, the clerk of the hotel, and was in the act of giving him some money, when the horse suddenly sprang forward; and the Captain, not having hold of the reins, was thrown over the back of the low seat, turning a somersault into the rear end of the wagon from which he turned another somersault, striking upon his head and shoulders on the ground.  He was taken up unconscious and carried into the house and Dr. Purdy and other physicians quickly summoned.  A careful examination showed no fracture but owing to his weight and the distance and manner in which he fell he must have sustained a very severe concussion of the brain and it is also thought that his spine is injured.  Since the accident he has remained in a comatose state and attending physicians consider his recovery impossible. [Chenango Semi-=Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, Sept. 21, 1878]