Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, January 1878

 Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, January 2, 1878

Marriage

ARMS - HYATT:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], on 18th, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. Edward P. Arms to Miss Georgia T. Hyatt.

Deaths

MILLER:  In Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], Dec. 21, Mr. Riley Miller, aged 71 years.

JOHNSON:  Earlville [Madison Co. NY]:  Saturday the remains of Isaac Johnson were brought from his late home in Webster [Monroe Co. NY] and interred in the cemetery here.  Some two years since, deceased was afflicted with a shock of apoplexy which deprived him of the power of speech and finally resulted in his death.  He will be remembered as one who has done much towards the building up and improving of our village, there being no less than eight houses which will stand as lasting monuments to his name in this place.

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DODGE:  By the Baltimore, Md., papers we learn of the death of Mrs. Margaret Dodge which occurred at that place on the morning of December 14.  Mrs. Dodge was the wife of Dr. A. W. Dodge, formerly well known in this county [Chenango Co. NY], but now a prominent physician of Baltimore and who resided for many years with his uncle, Daniel Dodge of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY].

Mrs. Dodge was a most estimable lady, and greatly beloved by a very large circle of friends and acquaintances.  Her charities and her active participation in nearly all of the philanthropic and charitable enterprises of her native city of Baltimore will render her loss an irreparable one to the poor and destitute of that place by whom she will be greatly missed.  Her bereaved husband and afflicted relatives in this section have our deepest sympathies in their sad bereavement.

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MACK:  We learn from our Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] correspondent the particulars of a sad and fatal accident which occurred on the farm of Lucius Whittemore of that place on Saturday last about 9 A.M..  The particulars of this destressing accident seem to be as follows:

Peter Mack in company with a Mr. Mack and Mr. Bartle were felling trees in company, and one of the trees they had previously cut, lodged against a tree they were falling.  As they were chopping, they heard a noise overhead and looking up saw that the lodged tree was falling and in attempting to get out of its way, Peter Mack was hit by the limbs of the falling tree.  He was struck on the left side of his head and body crushing him in a most frightful manner.  He had an ax in his hand at the time of the accident which cut a severe gash in his arm near the shoulder.  He was conscious for some two hours after the accident, but about 11 o'clock he became unconscious, in which condition he remained until 8 P.M. of the same day when he quietly passed away.  The deceased was aged 36 years, an honest and hardworking man, and his sudden and untimely death casts a gloom over the entire community.  He leaves a wife and two children to mourn his sudden and terrible death.  His funeral was attended on Monday afternoon, the exercises being conducted by Rev. A.M. Colgrove of the M.E. Church.  His widow and fatherless children have the deepest sympathy of the public in their bereavement.

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Sudden Death of John Swan Randall

At about three o'clock Tuesday afternoon, John Swan Randall was found dead in his rooms over T.D. miller's drug store.  Dr. Stewart who occupies rooms adjoining those of Mr. Randall, heard groans in the room of the deceased and soon heard a heavy fall and attempted to enter the rooms, but found them locked, a key was procured, and on entering the rooms he was found lying upon the floor dead.  The deceased had been in poor health for some time, and it is supposed that he fell as Dr. Stuart heard the fall which attracted his attention, and there were several severe contusions about the head and face, and a very severe fracture of the skull over the right eye, the fracture of itself being in the opinion of Dr. Avery the Coroner, fully sufficient to produce death, and under the circumstances the coroner decided that an inquest was unnecessary.

Mr. Randall was formerly a prominent practicing lawyer in Oswego [Oswego Co. NY] and has resided in Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] over twenty years.  Although somewhat eccentric, he was a man of rare intelligence and of a kind and genial disposition and had many warm friends.  He leaves two surviving sisters, one Mrs. Ezra Hewitt of this village and Mrs. M. Birdsall of Greene to mourn his untimely and sudden death, and who have the deepest sympathies of tour entire community in their severe affliction.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, January 5, 1878

Marriages

KING - GEER:  January 3d, by Rev. L.M.S. Haynes at the residence of the bride's father, Nelson Geer, Esq., Tompkins D. King of Oriskany Falls [Oneida Co. NY] and Emma A. Geer.

WILD - JONES:  At the home of the bride, Dec. 25th, 1877, by the Rev. B.B. Carruth, Mr. Edwin L. Wild and Miss Julia L. Jones, both of Butternuts, Otsego Co. N.Y.

Deaths

MATHEWSON:  At East Guilford, N.Y. [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 16, Viola A. [Mathewson] aged 2 years, 1 month, and 10 days.  21st, H. Eugene [Mathewson] aged 11 years, 6 months and 13 days.  26th, P. Sheridan [Mathewson] aged 8 years and 3 months. 27th, Frank H. [Mathewson] aged 14 years, 9 months and 13 days.  All of diphtheria.  Children of P.L. and Mary A Mathewson. [children buried in East Guilford Cemetery]

WOOSTER:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], December 27th, Seneca Wooster aged 27 years.

GILBERT:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 1st, Eunice S. Gilbert, aged 64 years.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, January 5, 1878

Marriages

HYDE - MAINE:  In East Hamilton [Madison Co. NY], Dec. 31 by Rev. Mr. McDonald, Mr. Willie Hyde of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Lillian Maine of East Hamilton.

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The Richmond (Ill.) Gazette contains the following notice of a marriage consummated in that town.  One of the parties formerly resided in Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], and we publish it entire as a matter of local interest.  It shows how things are done in that locality.

MARRIED:  In Hebron, November 21st, at the residence of the bride's by Rev. S. Earngey of Woodstock, Miss Hattie Tryon and Mr. F.C. Sumner.

About fifty relatives and invited guests were present.  everything was arranged with good taste and careful hands; each decoration or design seemed a fitting tribute to the Lady whose associations were about to change for a lifetime.  In the Bridal Parlor a double arch composed of evergreens and flowers was arranged by design of Capt. C.H. Tryon, uncle of the bride.  On the right over the head of the groom, entwined in evergreen was the inscription, Sumner, on the left in like manner Tryon.  From the center of the arch hung a marriage bell of rose and evergreen, all skillfully appointed and beautifully emblematical of the union intended to be consummated.  The ceremony was performed at five P.M.  At six o'clock a bountiful supper was served, prepared for the most part by the bride's own hands and was a choice token of handiwork. The wedding party was happy, some joyous, but occasionally a silent tear involuntarily trickled down a cheek.  Congratulations were earnest and sincere.  Hattie has ever been a true confiding girl - the Ideal Lady. We wish her and her husband the full measure of that happiness which by God's design is theirs to share. 

Death

SPRAGUE:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 29th, Jane [Sprague] wife of Elisha Sprague, aged 61 years.

The wife of Elisha Sprague died very suddenly last Saturday evening while on her way to a neighbor's to watch with a sick lady.  She was taken with a severe pain in her side and lived but a few minutes.  The doctors disagree as to the cause of her death.  One claims it was apoplexy and another heart disease.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, January 1878

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, January 3, 1878

Marriages

GLYNN - BOYDEN:  At the residence of Charles Newton, in Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 28th by T.D. Anthony, Esq., Mr. Charles A. Glynn of Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Ellen P. Boyden of Plymouth.

BROWN - DELANO:  At the residence of the bride's mother Dec. 25th, by Rev. Edson Rogers, Mr. Duane Brown of Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Ida Dulano of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY].

JONES - FREEMAN:  At the residence of the bride's father in North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 1st, by Rev. G.R. Burnside, Mr. Charles M. Jones of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Helen A. Freeman, of North Norwich.

BROWN - HEALY:  In Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 25th, by Rev. Charles Steere, Mr. George A. Brown of DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY], to Miss Vira Healy of Lincklaen.

ROGERS - GAGE:  In Rockdale [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 27th, by Rev W. Scott, Mr. P.A, Rogers to Miss Katie E. Gage, both of Rockdale.

MALOY - PURTTE:  At St. Patrick's Church, Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 1st, by Rev. Father Harrigan Mr. Frank Maloy to Miss Kate Purtte, all of Norwich.

CLOSE - ROBBINS:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 25th, by Rev. C.C. Johnson, Mr. George F Close to Miss Addie E. Robbins, all of Smyrna.

HERRICK - THOMPSON:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 24th, by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. George L. Herrick of Oxford to Miss Jennie Thompson, of Chenango Forks [Broome Co. NY].

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On Wednesday last, a merry party of friends and relatives gathered at the residence of Mr. William Finch in Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] to witness the marriage ceremony of their daughter Kittie [Finch] to Arthur W. Bosworth of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].  The parlor and dining room were beautifully decorated with evergreens, under the supervision of Miss Frankie Finch and Miss Mary Warren.  A large cross presented to the bride, added very much to the charms of the room.

At about half-past three o'clock the bridal party marched in and directly under the marriage bell the ceremony was performed by Rev. A Crocker.  The congratulations that followed were not a few.  The company withdrew to the dining room where nothing was lacking.  The bride and groom were seated in front of their monogram which was tastefully arranged in two large wreaths.  The table glittered with glass and silverware.  In the center was placed a fruit pyramid composed of apples, grapes, oranges, etc. while around it were cakes and many other things too numerous to mention.  The bride received many beautiful presents which may assure her of the warm feelings of a host of friends. 

About five o'clock, part of the guests were obliged to depart, after an affectionate farewell, on the six o'clock train for Norwich. The others soon dispersed. The bride took a farewell of her home and with her husband also left for Norwich, which is to be their future home. they take with them the best wishes of their many friends.

Deaths

SPRAGUE:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], suddenly of heart disease, Dec. 29th, Jane [Sprague], wife of Elisha Sprague, aged 61 years.

GREENE:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 2d, after a painful illness, Maria [Greene] wife of Elisha Greene, aged 73 years.

GREENE:  In East German [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 8th, Mrs. Louisa Greene, aged 85 years.

EDWARDS:  In Dresden, Ohio, Dec. 14th, Mayor O.P. Edwards, aged 59 years, formerly of this county [Chenango Co. NY].

WATKINS:  John Watkins died at his home in the town of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], about two and a half miles east of this place on Wednesday last, after a long illness.  His funeral occurred on Friday following at the Baptist church in the village of Butternuts.

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RANDALL:  Suddenly, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Tuesday, January 1st, 1878, John Swan Randall Esq., aged 60 years.  Funeral services at the residence of S.R. Follett, East Main Street, on Thursday at 2 P.M.

Between three and four o'clock on Tuesday afternoon last - while the New Year festivities were being observed in many households - the announcement of the sudden death of John Swan Randall caused a feeling of sadness among our citizens, and to those who were more intimately acquainted with him, the shock was most painful.

As nearly as we can ascertain the facts, they are as follows:  Mr. Randall, who for many years has been a widower, with no family, has long occupied two rooms over the drug store of T.D. Miller, corner of South Broad and East Main Streets.  In the front room of the two was his library, and here he often received the calls of his many friends. The rear room was his lodging room.  For months past he had been in feeble health, although on Tuesday morning he partook of breakfast at the Stratton House, where he boarded, apparently in his usual health.  About ten o'clock in the morning, Mr. H. DeLong, an intimate personal friend, called upon him, finding him lying upon a sofa in his front room, and suffering from much pain, his face being much flushed.  Mr. D. Remained with him until about two o'clock in the afternoon, when he left for a short time, locking the door at the request of Mr. Randall.  Soon after three o'clock, Mr. Babcock and Mr. Makepeace, clerks in Miller's drug store below, heard a noise in the rooms overhead, which led them to think that someone had fallen.  Mr. Babcock at once went to the door of his room, which he found locked, and called to Mr. Randall, but received no answer.  Thinking that he was unnecessarily alarmed, he went downstairs, but soon returned to the door, again failing to attract attention from its occupant.  But a few moments elapsed before Mr. DeLong returned, who, upon opening the door, found Mr. Randall lying partially upon his face, in the back room, dead.  He at once gave the alarm, when Dr. Stuart - whose rooms are adjoining - with others, hastened to the scene.  During Mr. DeLong's absence, Mr. Randall had moved from the front to the rear room, and it is thought that he had seated himself upon the side of his bed and in attempting to rise, fell forward.  There was a contusion upon his forehead, probably caused by his striking upon the floor, and apparently his death had been instantaneous.  It is the opinion of Dr. Stuart, Dr. Avery, and others who examined the corpse, that apoplexy caused death.  The remains were removed to the residence of S.R. Follett on East Main Street, where funeral services will be held this (Thursday) afternoon at two o'clock.

Deceased was a son of the late Col. John Randall and was born in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], October 1st, 1817.  He read law with S.S. Randall, Esq., and about the year 1835 he left his native place, locating in Oswego, where he married Miss Ellen Eliza Hart in 1838.  In connection with Joseph Neilson (who presided as Judge at the late Beecher trail in Brooklyn), he published at that place the Oasis, a monthly magazine which was conducted with much quality.  About 1845, he removed to Kenosha Wis. where he resided until his return to this place, some twenty-five years since, he having in the meantime lost his wife by death, as also his two children, both of whom died in infancy.  Since that time he has resided in our midst, respected by all, who now mourn his sudden decease.

Mr. Randall was a peculiar man in many respects, but his peculiarities were such as to attract rather than repulse. A man of fine education and literary attainments, he had collected a library of rare works which have often been sought for by his acquaintances and none could be more ready than he to impart the information he was so capable of giving.  Probably no finer or more valuable private collection of ancient and modern coins and currency of all nations was possessed by anyone in this country, and he took especial pleasure in exhibiting them to visiting friends and explaining their history.  A rare collection of insects also formed an addition to this cabinet of curiosities for which he was recently offered a large sum, which he refused.

Deceased was genial in his intercourse with friends, kindly in his nature and his integrity was unquestioned.  He leaves surviving him two sisters, Mrs. Ezra Hewitt of this village and Mrs. Maurice Birdsall, of Greene, who, with other surviving relatives have the heartfelt sympathies of the community in their bereavement and the tears of many personal friends of the deceased will fall with theirs when the last sad rites shall have been performed.

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Killed by a Falling Tree

Mr. Peter Mac, residing about two miles north of our village [Guilford, Chenango Co. NY], sustained injures while felling a tree on the 29th ult, from the result of which he died about 8 o'clock of that evening.  the particulars, as we learn them, are that on the morning of the day mentioned, Mr. Mac in company with a Mr. Bartle, was engaged in cutting a tree on the land of Mr. Lucius Whittemore, some two miles west of his home on the road leading to Oxford and when the tree which they were cutting was falling, Mr. Mac, in his endeavor to escape from the danger, became bewildered, as it is supposed, and running towards its top was struck by a limb of the falling tree and thrown to the ground.  Upon going to him he was found insensible from a blow upon the back of the head and badly cut upon the arm by his axe, which he had held in his hands.  He was immediately conveyed to his home and medical aid summoned, but continued insensible either from the concussion produced or from some internal injury which was not ascertained until his death, as above stated.

Mr. Mac was a German, of some 36 years of age, coming among us when a mere boy, and by his industrious, sober habits had accumulated a respectable competency and won the esteem of all who knew him.  He leaves a wife and two children to mourn his sudden death.  He has no other relatives in this section of the country.   His funeral takes place today (31st) at his late residence and the remains will be deposited in our village cemetery.

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY

 Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, June 15, 1853

Marriage

 In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], on the 8th inst. by the Rev. J. Soule, Mr. Wm. H. Scofield of Oneonta to Miss Ema Sturges of Prattsville [Greene Co. NY].

Deaths

The wife of Mr. V. Terpening of Richfield [Otsego Co. NY], was thrown from a carriage at Herkimer [Herkimer Co. NY], on Saturday and so severely injured that she died the same day.

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On Saturday evening about 9 o'clock, a young man whose name is supposed to be George Estell of Jefferson Co. [NY], fell into the lock at Fort Herkimer and was drowned.  An inquest was held on the body by Coroner Hartman and the following facts were elicited:  He came directly from Jefferson County and arrived by canal at the lock a little before dark and stopped for the purpose of visiting some friends he supposed he had in that vicinity.  He went in to a grocery into the lock.  It being so dark, it is supposed that he did not discover the lock.  He was not intoxicated.  Before assistance could be rendered him, he sank to the bottom and his body was recovered about midnight.  He had on a brown Kentucky Jean coat, blue Cassimere checked pants, red vest, straw hat; was about 19 years old, five feet ten inches high, had light hair and light complexion, had 16 cents in money in his pocket, was from all appearances a laboring man.  The following is a copy of the only paper found in his pockets:  "Mr. Daniel C. Rouse - Sir: I am very sorry to disappoint you about work as I intended to have been at your house."  Coroner Hartman of this village will communicate with the friends of the deceased, if they can be found.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, April 16, 1851

Marriage

In Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY], on the 13th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Brown, Mr. Josiah B. Bowman to Miss Fanny [Hannah] daughter of Mr. George Hannah.

Deaths

In this town on the 7th inst. Orville J. [Watrous], son of Mr. Asaph Watrous, aged 19 years.

In Springfield [Otsego Co. NY], on the 12th inst.  Mr. Caleb Stockley, late of Albany [Albany Co. NY] and formerly of this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY], aged 41 years.

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY], on the 11th inst. Gen. Erastus Crafts, aged 71 years.

In Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY], of consumption on the 8th inst. Mrs. Lavantia Henniker, aged 26 years.

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], on the 28th ult.  Sarah Ann [Hopkins] daughter of Robert W. and Catharine Hopkins aged 12 years.

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Another Revolutionary Hero Gone to His Rest 

Obadiah Archer, grandfather of the Deputy Clerk of the Assembly, died at his residence in Marion, Wayne County [NY] on the 7th inst.  He was in the 92d year of his age, was through three campaigns in the Revolution, voted at every Presidential election from the government - first for George Washington and last for Zachary Taylor.  The full enjoyment of his faculties were preserved to him in a remarkable degree.  He felt and expressed a deep interest in passing events until with a few days of his death.  Albany Journal.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, March 7, 1855

Marriages

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY], on the 25th ult. by Rev. S. Douglass, at his residence, Mr. Albert Eddy of Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY], to Miss Antonette Sterling of Morris.

At a hotel in Springfield Centre [Otsego Co. NY], Feb. 22d by Rev. S. Hill, Mr. Bela Armstrong to Miss Mary E. Shawl, both of Warren, Herkimer Co. [NY].

In Minden, Montgonery Co. [NY], on the 15th ult. by Rev. G. Parsons, Mr. Douw B. Diefendorf of Sharon, Schoharie Co. [NY] to Miss Alzina [Diefendorf] daughter of Warner Diefendorf, Esq., of Minden.

In Sharon [Schoharie Co. NY], on the 5th inst. by the same.  Mr. Harmon Pettis to Miss Sarah Whitford, both of Canajoharie, Montgonery Co. [NY].

Deaths

In Otsego [Otsego Co. NY], Feb. 16, Francis Della [Johnson], wife of Francis F. Johnson, aged 31 years.

In Otsego [Otsego Co. NY], Feb. 21, Nelson Russell son of Wm. Russell, Esq., aged nearly 39 years.

At Roseville, on the 19th ult. Dr. Joseph Carpenter, aged 72 years.

At Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY], on the 21st ult. Emma S. [Conklin] daughter of John and Adaline Conklin, aged 5 months and 21 days.

At South Valley, suddenly, on the 27th ult. Stephen A. Maynard, M.D. in the 30th year of his age.

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, April 17, 1847

Death

We regret to learn the death of Orrin Gridley, Esq. an old and respected inhabitant of Clinton [Oneida Co. NY] in this county, and president of the Bank of Kirkland in that village.  He died on Saturday morning, after a short illness.  Union Gazette Monday

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY

 Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, July 21, 1869

Deaths

On the evening of the 16th inst. at Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], Charles B. Musson left the shop of Mr. Cobb for his boarding place (Mr. R.R. Truesdell) near the bridge in the village.  He not being seen the next day; some young men found his clothes under said bridge, immediately informed the neighborhood and search was made.  His body was found some twenty feet from the bridge in about six feet of water in a perfect rigid state, showing that he was undoubtedly taken with a cramp and unable to get out and was drowned.  His remains were taken to Mr. Truesdell's and Coroner Fox summoned to attend the inquest on the 18th.  The verdict of the jury was that he came to his death by accidental drowning.  Mr. Musson was a young man of high respectability about twenty-two years of age, leaving a father and mother and a large circle of many warm friends to mourn his untimely loss.  The father (Burton Musson) of this young man resides in Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY].  Charles was soon to be married to a very amiable young lady of Butternuts.  His funeral took place on Monday, conducted by the I.O. of G.T. of which he was a faithful and useful member.

News Item

Our Aged People

Mr. Jacob Folts, who lives about two miles west of this village [Morris, Otsego Co. NY], with his son Spellman, and is now in his 89th year, last week sheered four sheep one afternoon in about the same time his son Spellman did a like number.  Mr. Folts is a native of Herkimer county [NY], removed to this town some thirty-five years ago.  He can now walk to the village and back and not feel much tired on his arrival home.  He reads without spectacles.

Mrs. Benjamin Draper, who resides near neighbor to Mr. Folts in now in her 91st year, enjoys a good degree of health, so much so, that she can knit a stocking per day and do other work in proportion.

Mr. Oliver Matteson, who lives in the west part of the town, is now in his 82d year, is son-in-law of Mrs. Draper, is rather decriped, but enjoys a tolerable share of health, and can do a pretty good day's work yet.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, January 2, 1877

Marriage

Dec. 25:  At Harpersville [Broome Co. NY], by A.S. Hobart of Morris, Andrew Landers to Miss Alice D. Aylsworth, both of Vallonia Springs [Broome Co. NY].

Deaths

On Saturday last, Peter Mack son-in-law of James Sweet of this village [Morris, Otsego Co. NY], was chopping in the woods at Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], when in felling a tree, it struck Mr. M. on the head, killing him almost instantly.

50 years ago, last Friday, Dec. 28, Levi Kelley was hung in Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] for the murder of Abraham Spafford and there are some yet living in this town who saw him hung.  It was the only execution that has ever taken place in Otsego County.  Not but that murder has been committed in the county, but three or for murderers have escaped the halter.

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List of deaths in this town [Morris, Otsego Co. NY], published in the Chronicle during the year 1877.  Eleven of the number resided on the corporation.  thirty in all; one over 95 years of age; five over 80 and under 90; seven over 70 and under 80; nine over 60 and under 70; and not one under 21 years of age.

Jan. 8, Mr. J.D. Matteson, aged 88 years

Feb. 9, Mrs. Frances Lewis, aged 44

Feb. 27, Mrs. Laura Light, aged 77

March 1, Miss Emma Niles, aged 21

March 4, Mrs. Sarah E. Moore, aged 71

March 10, Mary A. Webster, aged 89

March 21, Mr. J.M. Lull, aged 69

March 21, Mrs. Lucretia Cook, aged 80

April 3, Mary Ann Young, aged 68

April 10, Mrs. Elizabeth Howland, aged 69

April 13, Mr. Horace Harrison, aged 71

April 15, Mrs. Bourne, aged 75

April 22, Mr. Elisha Tobey, aged 78

May 28, Mrs.  Harriet Lull, aged 79

June 7, Mrs. Mary Ann Salsbury, aged 33

July 11, Miss Mary Ann Folts, aged 64

June 27, Mrs. Nancy Mirick, aged 50

July 11, Mr. Jacob Folts, aged 96

July 25, Mrs. Anna E. Hecox, aged 26

Aug. 13, Mr. Norris Gilbert, aged 66

Aug. 21, Mrs. I.J. Bailey

Aug. 29, Mrs. Melissa Smith, aged 80

Sept. 7, Mr. Samuel Tyler, aged 60

Sept. 11, Mr. Oliver P. Kinnie, aged 61

Sept. 18, Miss Rebecca Harris, aged 52

Sept. 18, Mrs. S.M. Brooks, aged 63

Oct. 6, Mr. John W Weeden, aged 86

Oct. 20, Mr. J.W Stranahan, aged 80

Dec. 18, Mr. Jacob Smith, aged 73

Vital Records, Chenango & Otsego Counties

 Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, December 29, 1877

Marriages

DURAN - MILLER:  At the M.E. Parsonage, Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 25th, 1877, by Rev. J.L. Race, Mr. Willard A. Duran of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Vernette M. Miller, Smyrna.

HITCHCOCK - MURFOOT:  At the M.E. Parsonage, in Canastota, December 20th, 1877, by Rev. M. Foot, Mr. Thomas E. Hitchcock, of Canastota and Miss Minnie M. Murfoot, of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].

HEALY - HEMMINWAY:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], December 12th, 1877, by Rev. Mr. Foster, Mr. B Healy of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], and Miss Esther Hemminway of Smyrna.

Deaths

EVANS:  In Morrisville [Madison Co. NY], December 15th, 1877, Mr. Robert Evans of Jackson, Mich., aged 32 years.  Deceased was formerly a resident of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] and removed to Jackson eight years ago.  He had been ill upwards of a year and went to Morrisville where his father resides last April for rest and in hope of regaining his health, but steadily declined until his death.

RAFFERTY:  In this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], December 24th, 1877, Bernard D. Rafferty, aged 21 years.

The funeral of Bernard Rafferty last Wednesday was one of the most largely attended that has occurred in this place for a long time, showing the estimate in which deceased was regarded by his society and friends.

'Tis sweet to remember, / Those dear ones now fled / To once more recall / The forms of the dead.

We yearn their comp'ny / Which can no more be; / In heaven - we trust, / His Savior he'll see.

Friends and acquaintance, / Around him did call; / Good words of advice / He had for them all.

Turn not a deaf ear, / To counsel so true; / Turn o'er a new leaf, / Enroll 'mong the "few."

No cause we've to grieve, / Our turn may come next; / It is so decreed, / In the Scripture text.

Death calls us but once, / Then must we respond; / More fixed and sure, / Than Jew and his bond.

Bernard was anxious, / Dear Jesus to meet; / Longed for the mansion, / Where joy is complete.

Sorrowful suff'ring, / In anguish and pain; / We trust and believe, / He heaven did gain.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, December 27, 1877

Marriages

IRELAND - WINSOR:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], at the home of the bride, Dec. 26, 1877, by Rev. N.S. Reynolds, Mr. James W. Ireland of Oxford [Chenango Co. NYT] and Miss Katie S. Winsor, of Bainbridge.

CARPENTER - McDONALD:  Dec. 19 in Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. H.H. Allen, Mrs. Jas. W. Carpenter to Miss Jennie I. [McDonald], daughter of Jay McDonald, all of Oneonta.

SMITH - WEDGE: Wilkins Settlement, Chenanog Co. NY:  Mr. Eugene Smith and a Miss Wedge both of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], have taken up their abode in the state of matrimony. We wish them a pleasant and successful journey through life, with joys not a few, and may their troubles be little ones.

Wilkins Settlement, Chenango Co. NY:  We learn also that Homer Parsons has premeditatedly committed matrimony with a lady from Waverly, nNY.  Success to them.

Deaths

NEWTON:  In Masonville, N.Y. [Delaware Co. NY], Dec. 13, Miss Eliza Newton formerly of Bainbridge [Chenanog Co. NY], aged 69 years.

MULTER:  Dec. 14th, 1877, at Schenevus [Otsego Co. NY], Jacob J. Multer, late editor of the Schenevus Monitor aged 60 years.

LEET:  Mrs. Charles Leet formerly of Delhi [Delaware Co. NY], died at Somers, Wis., Oct. 23.  She was a daughter of Matthew Wiard who kept one of the famous stage taverns in Meredith [Delaware Co. NY], when the old Susquehanna turnpike was one of the great thoroughfares of Southern New York.  Mr. Leet kept the old hotel in Delhi, where the Edgerton house now stands [in 1877].

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

Marriages

In the Universalist Church in this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], by Rev. E.E. Peck on Wednesday, Jan. 2d, Julius C. Granger of Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY], to Lottie A. [Field] daughter of Marcus Field, of Cooperstown.

At West Arch St. Presbyterian Church, Philadelphia, Dec. 26th, 1877, by the Rev. Dr Willett, Henry Palmer of Jacksonville, Florida, formerly of Cooperstown, N.Y. and Mary W. [Ambler] daughter of the late H.P. Ambler of Philadelphia.

At the Parsonage in Pleasant Brook [Otsego Co. NY] on Christmas morning by Rev. M.L. Baker, Millard F. Oliver of Cobleskill [Schoharie Co. NY] to Alvaretta Hoag of Maple Valley [Otsego Co. NY].

At Schuyler's Lake [Otsego Co. NY] Dec. 26th by Rev. L.L. Rury John Wart of Sandy Creek, N.Y. [Oswego Co.] and H. Ziporah Barton of Exeter, N.Y. [Otsego Co.].

In Lentsville [Otsego Co. NY], Dec. 25th, '77 at the residence of the bride's parents, by Rev. Walter Fry, Leon D. Van Patten and Amelia T. Wicks.

Deaths

In Brooklyn, Dec. 27, Catherine [McElroy] wife of Samuel McElroy.  Both formerly of Albany [Albany Co. NY].

In New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY], Dec. 17 of consumption, Charles H. Jaynes, aged 19 years 5 months adn 23 days.

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY], Dec. 13th, '77, Jacob Smith, aged 73 years.

In Westville [Franklin Co. NY], Dec. 27th, 1877, Hubert C. [Robinson] son of Richard M. and Lina E. Robinson, aged two years and six months.

In Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], Dec. 21st, '77, John Watkins aged 50 years.

In Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY], at the residence of Fayette Hinds, Dec. 29th, 1877, Mrs. Abby Card in the 77th year of her age.

The deceased was born in South Kingstown, R.I., May 22d, 1801, her maiden name being Holland.  In June 1827, she was married to Mr. Daniel L. Card and the following year they moved into this county, where she has lived ever since. The disease that caused her death was chronic rheumatism.  For nearly eleven years she was prostrated by this painful malady and much of the time confined to her bed and entirely helpless.  But through all her suffering she manifested great patience and welcomed the day of her death with a large and triumphant faith.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, December 1877

 Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, December 29, 1877

Marriages

DUSAN - MILLER:  At the parsonage, Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], December 25, 1877, Rev. J.L. Race, Mr. Willard A. Dusan of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Berneth M. Miller, of Smyrna.

WAGNER - ROWE:  At the home of the bride's father, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], December 27, by Rev. S. Scoville, Henry J. Wagner of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] to Sarah J. Rowe, of Norwich.

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On December 26th, a very large and happy gathering of friends, and relatives numbering upwards of a hundred assembled at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. William R. Tiffany, at King Settlement [Chenango Co. NY] to witness the marriage ceremony of their daughter Lillie [Tiffany] to Mr. Albert Stratton, of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].  At an early hour the guests began to arrive and at 5 o'clock P.M. the appointed time, all being in readiness the ceremony was performed by the Rev. Mr. Loveridge, of Norwich, William D. Allen, acting as right-hand man for the groom.  While Miss Ora Bancroft, assisted the bride.  Immediately after the ceremony the happy couple adjourned to the dining room, with their friends and sat down to a table laden with all the substantials and delicacies imaginable, to which ample justice was done.  After supper the evening was passed in congratulation and well wishes, interspersed with songs and music, and at a late hour the happy pair repaired to the residence of Mr. Stratton, in Norwich, where their friends gave them a hearty welcome to their new home.  Among the many guests present were: Mr. and Mrs. A.H. Wheeler, Mt. Upton; Mr. and Mrs. C.O. Willcox, Oxford; Mr. and Mrs. Whitman Stratton, Norwich; Mr. and Mrs. Evans, King Settlement; Mr. and Mrs. Melville Stratton, Oxford; Mrs. E.R. Stratton, Oxford; Mrs. G.W. Sholes, Binghamton; M.C.B. Stratton, Oxford;  Mr. and Mrs. Clark, King Settlement.  Among the large array of presents we noticed a great many very useful articles.  As the "wee small hours" drew nigh their friends departed for their homes, each leaving their well wishes for their future happiness, and the hopes that their pathway through life may be strewn with flowers and their house filled with joys.

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Otselic, Chenango Co. NY:  Quite a brilliant wedding took place at the residence of John Lewis on the 18th(?) inst.  The bride was Miss Lucinda Pierce, granddaughter of Mr. Lewis.  The bridegroom was Mr. Frank Armstrong of Lebanon [Madison Co. NY].  The wedded pair received many handsome presents.  They are now about on their bridal tour at Batavia, N.Y. and other places.

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A very pleasant affair occurred at Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], on Wednesday last, the occasion being the marriage of A.W. Bosworth of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Kittie J. Finch, of Coventry.  The ceremony was performed at the residence of the bride's father, by the Rev. A Crocker.  Happy congratulations were bestowed upon the newly wedded couple by all present, and merriment and hilarity pervaded the entire company.  There were several friends of the parties from Norwich present.

Deaths

MOORE:  In Columbus [Chenango Co. NY], on December 25th, of putrid scarlet fever, Rose May [Moore] daughter of Alonzo Moore, aged 3 years 5 months.

BROOKS:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], December 27th, 1877, of scarlet fever, Freddy M. [Brooks], aged 3 years and 4 months.  

HAYES:  Greene, Chenango Co. NY:  The funeral of Mrs. Lucy Hayes was held on Christmas day at the Methodist church.  Her husband died nearly two years since and she has just followed him, leaving three little children to the care of friends.

SPURR:  Columbus, Chenango Co. NY:  The people of the town were shocked a few days since, to learn of the death by drowning of a former resident, Angell C Spurr.  Mr. Spurr settled in Kansas some years since and was the owner of a large farm there.  While riding with two other gentlemen across a bridge spanning the river which runs through the farm, the bridge gave way and precipitated the whole party into the water.  The other gentlemen escaped, but Mr. Spurr and the horse were drowned.  Mr. Frank J. Spurr, brother of the deceased, started from his home here immediately on receipt of a telegram bringing intelligence of the disaster. The young widow, with her two little ones, returned with him, bringing the body, and the funeral services were attended at the Universalist Church on the 17th inst., Rev.  Mr. Ballou officiating.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, December 26, 1877

Death

Mr. Merrit S. Pierpont died at his residence in this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY] on Sunday afternoon last, at an advanced age.  He had an attack of erysipelas in the head, which proved fatal.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 27, 1877

Marriages

At the residence of Addison Hotchkiss, in Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 20th, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Harmon A. Walworth, of Smithville, to Miss Charlotte A. [Hotchkiss], daughter of Calvin Hotchkiss, of this  village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 25th, at the residence of the bride's mother, by the Rev. A.B. Dilley, Mr. Frank D. Truesdell to Miss Mary E. [Hurlburt] daughter of the late M.D. Hurlburt, all of this town.

At Whitney's Point [Broome Co. NY], Dec. 19th, by Rev. C.E. Taylor, Mr. Orrin B. Edmister of Lisle [Broome Co. NY] to Mrs. Sophie Taft, of Barker [Broome Co. NY].

Deaths

In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], Dec. 17th, Grace D. [King] daughter of Hiram King, Esq. of Chenango Forks [Broome Co. NY].

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 22d, Mrs. Lucy Hayes, widow of the late Lorenzo B. Hayes, aged 36 years and 7 months.

By the death of Mrs. Lorenzo B. Hayes, three little children are left destitute orphans.  How sad to contemplate!  Three bright little souls left alone in this cold world - no father - no mother!  Who will be a father to them?  Who will fill the place of that dear mother, now gone from them forever?  She longed to live to see the bright Christmas morn, that she might behold the presents that kind friends would bring her dear ones.  But this was not to be, and Christmas saw her moral remains laid away beneath the sod of the valley.  While other children were surrounded by kind parents and all was joy, these dear ones stood by the open grave of their truest friend on earth - their mother!  What a sad, Christmas must this have been to these little ones!  Will not some kind friend of humanity come to their relief?  We sincerely hope so.  [Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, Dec. 29, 1877]

Tragic Accident on Lyon Brook Bridge, Chenango County, NY, New Years Eve 1877

 Shocking Accident on Lyon Brook Bridge

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, January 3, 1878

Frank Church, a resident of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] and brother of District Attorney Church, met his death by a shocking accident at Lyon Brook Bridge on Tuesday evening.  On Tuesday morning he went down to the bridge on the Midland train in company with James Hancock, who is employed by the Midland Company to watch the bridge and keep it in order.  The two spent the day with Jerry Dye at the house of Daniel Fisher, a short distance from the bridge up the brook and took supper there.  They then concluded that they would return to Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] and thought they would try to jump aboard the evening train, which generally slacks speed at the bridge.  For this purpose, they stationed themselves some four or five rods south of the bridge and when the train approached, Church, who stood a short distance nearer the bridge than the others caught hold of the handrail of the forward passenger car, while Dye caught at the rear end of the last car.  Dye failed in his attempt to get aboard and was whirled down the embankment some thirty feet, sustaining severe bruises.  When he got up, the train had crossed the bridge, and he thinking the others had been successful in getting aboard, went down the hill to the brook, and stayed overnight at the house of Mr. Lindsey, to whom he related the adventure.  Hancock got safely on the train and not finding his companions, supposed that they failed to get aboard. Wednesday morning, he returned to his duties at the bridge, and the first object that attracted his attention was the dead body of Church, lying at the foot of the south abutment to the bridge, having evidently fallen through the bridge a distance of forty feet or more.  The head and face were shockingly mutilated, one arm was broken in several places, and the appearances indicated that he must have fallen head foremost.  He was doubtless instantly killed.  The body was removed to a place of safety and word sent at once to Norwich, when Mr. Cary, the undertaker, and others, went down to the scene of the accident and brought the body to Norwich.

There are two theories of the accident.  One, that failing to get a foothold when he clenched the rail, he clung fast as long as his strength permitted, and then dropped falling through the bridge.  The other, and a very plausible one, is that he failed at the first attempt and then ran after the train hoping to catch hold of the rear car, and in his excitement forgot all about the bridge until he plunged headlong down the abyss.

Deceased was a son of the late William H. Church and was not yet twenty-one years of age.  He leaves a wife and one small child, an aged mother and several brothers and sisters to mourn his untimely death.  The accident, following so closely upon the sudden death of Mr. John S. Randall, has caused a feeling of awe to pervade the whole community.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, January 5, 1878

One of the most sad and distressing accidents that has happened in this vicinity for many years occurred at the Lyon Brook Bridge, about four miles below this village [Norwich] on Tuesday evening last, by which Frank Church lost his life.

The particulars of this shocking affair are substantially as follows:  Jerry Dye, a friend of young Church, had received an invitation to spend New Years at Daniel Fisher's near the Lyon Brook, and meeting Church in the village he informed him where he was going that night and invited him to come down the next morning with James Hancock, the bridge watchman at Lyon Brook, which he did, and together Dye and Church spent the day in visiting at Daniel and Charles Fisher's and other places.  In the evening, they arranged to come to Norwich on the Midland train, which does not stop at the bridge, but slacks up sufficiently for an expert railroad man to get aboard.  As the train came along, Dye caught at the rear car but not getting a firm hold, was thrown over the bank and was considerably bruised, but not seriously injured. The stories of Dye and Hancock, the bridge watchman, conflict in somewhat in regard to the accident to Church.  Dye's theory being that he caught hold of the front end of baggage car, but not getting a firm hold enough to get upon the platform of the car was dragged along until his strength gave out and he lost hold and went through the bridge, while Hancock's theory, which is far the more probable is that Church did not get hold of the car at all, but that after the train had passed, he started to run after it to catch it and in his excitement forgot that the bridge was so near and that he went all right until he came to the place near the south abutment where there was a wide space between the ties and then dropped through.  The distance he fell was about fifty feet, and the probabilities are that he never moved after he struck the ground.  His skull was terribly crushed, his face horribly disfigured and his right arm, shoulder, and fingers broken.

When the accident was known, undertaker Cary was sent for the body and it was taken to his rooms, where a Coroner's Jury consisting of the following gentlemen: O.M. Hughson, foreman; W.K. Packer, J.B. Beesley, George A. Wilson, B.B. Colton, C.S. King, Theodore Hill, E. Tiffany, D.R. McDonald, and J. Sibley was summoned by Coroner Avery. After reviewing the body, the Jury returned to the Court House, where an inquest was held, and the following evidence given:

Albert Cary:  Sworn, testified.  Was ordered by J.W. Church to go to Lyon Brook Bridge this morning.  I went there; arrived at 11 A.M.; found the body of Frank Church lying near the south abutment of bridge on his face, upon the ground; he was dead.  His face was very badly bruised and right arm broken; Saw blood under his face, evidently coming from wounds on his face; saw no blood elsewhere; brought the body to my undertaking rooms.

[Answer to ] Question by King:  Found him lying on his face.  I should judge that he fell nearly 50 feet, for it was the distance from the bridge to where he lay.  

John Flinn:  Sworn, testified.  I am an employee of the Midland Railroad as freight auditor(?) and to look after the interests of the road; know the rules of the Company; the timetable of the road states that trains do not stop at that point, Lyon Brook Bridge, to receive or discharge passengers; they do not stop even on special occasions unless by a flag, as train would: engineers are ordered not to stop at that point; do not know rate of speed they are allowed to run; passed over the bridge to [observe] about 11 A.M.; saw body lying face down near south abutment; James Hancock, bridge watchman, informed me that the body was there; did not go down to body where it was laying; was at Oxford when informed by Hancock that the body was there.

Jerry Dye:  Sworn, testified.  Was at gas station in this village the night before New Years eve, about 5 or 6 o'clock in the afternoon; saw Frank Church there; Mr. Fisher came in and asked me to go come with him to Lyon Brook; Fisher resides one-half mile from bridge; promised to go down with him;  I went over to Smith's store; saw Frank Church after I came back from store; I stated to Church that I was going down to Fisher's to spend New Years; he replied that he should be lonesome; I said, come down, Frank and I advised him to go to the Midland and ride down with the bridge watchman, Mr. Hancock; he replied, I will come on; we then parted and I went home; next I saw him yesterday morning in the road near Lyon Brook bridge about 9 A.M.; was with him the balance of the day till about 8 o'clock P.M.; first we went together to the grist mill of Charles Fisher; staid there about 15 minutes, more or less; went from there to Charles Fisher's house; staid there 3 or 4 hours; we both drank 2 or 3 glasses of cider apiece; when we left there we went to Dan Fisher's and had supper; staid there about an hour; drank no cider there; next went to Mr. Lindsey's, stopping at the mill on the way; staid there one-half hour; drank one glass of cider apiece there; went from there to the shanty at the south end of railroad bridge; James Hancock was at the shanty when we arrived; went to no other places than I have mentioned; stayed at shanty till arrival of train; Hancock said he could slack the train so that they could get on; Hancock advised Frank to catch the train at forward end of baggage car on its arrival; saw Frank Church try to get aboard the train at point advised; saw him grab at car; that was the last time I saw Frank Church alive; I tried to get on the same train at the rear end of rear car and missed and was thrown down the bank; I was bruised some in the fall, injuring my knee, both hands and right side of back above hip; don't know the distance I fell, but it must be 40 feet; after I came to, I went to Lindsay's house and stayed all night; in the morning after breakfast, about 6:30 went to Mr. Lindsey's shop; while I was in the shop, E. Lindsay came in and told us that Mr. Hancock said there was someone dead under the bridge; I went to where the body lay in company with the four Lindsey's; the body was lying on its face; I did not touch the body; I went back to Lindsey and told him to hitch up a horse and go to Norwich and inform friends; I recognized the body by the clothing.

Dr. W.H. Stuart:  Sworn, Testified.  Have been a practicing physician and surgeon in Norwich.  Have examined the body of Frank Church and find the following injuries:  two fingers of right hand broken, wrist broken, right shoulder broken, a fracture of anterior portion of skull.  The fracture extended from eyebrow to near the medial line; the injury to skull was sufficient to produce death and in my opinion that was the cause of his death.

James Hancock:  Sworn, Testified.  My business is bridge watcher at Lyon Brook, on the Midland Railroad; was on duty yesterday; saw Frank Church and Jerry Dye at about 4 or 5 o'clock at the bridge; saw them at Charlie Fisher's and also saw them at Lindsey's a short time before;  they came to bridge about 6 o'clock in the evening; had no conversation with them; had a little talk with them when they first came up; they stayed at shanty for about two hours;  I stated to them that train did not stop; I can get on train, you must take your chances; I lighted a piece of waste and advised Frank Church to get on the forward end of baggage car, Dye the front end of coach and I would get on ahead of coach; I don't know that I saw Church try to get on; that was the last time I saw Church alive; I first saw body when I arrived at bridge; saw the body lying near south abutment of bridge on the ground; should say the distance from bridge to ground was 40 feet; I called to Lindsey and told him there was a body there; I went down to where the body lay as soon as they came up; the body was lying face down with [-?-] his head; I [identified] Church by his clothing; I then went to shanty from the body; I took first train to Oxford and informed the agent at that place of the accident; the parties to all appearances were sober; I knew that Church did not get aboard train for I saw him running after the train, and saw him stop on the track after train passed, about the length of a car behind the train; think when he saw me get aboard train he ran after it, and fell between the ties, as there was a wide space in the ties over where he lay. 

Archibald Lindsey:  Sworn, Testified.  I live at Lyon Brook Bridge; did not see Frank Church yesterday; Mr. Dye came to my house about 8:30 last night; he staid at my house all night; Mr. Hancock informed me about 9 o'clock that there was a dead man under the bridge; have heard evidence of witnesses Dye and Hancock and corroborate same.

Charles Lindsey:  Sworn, Testified.  Live with my father near Lyon Brook Bridge; saw Church and Dye yesterday between 5 and 6 in the evening at our house; they remained there about 20 minutes; when they left, they went to bridge; did not see Frank Church alive after that; heard Dye and Hancock's evidence and fully agree with it; when I saw body it was lying on face, head toward the abutment.

After a brief deliberation the Jury returned a verdict of accidental death.

The deceased was about twenty-one-years of age and leaves a wife and one child.  He was a son of the late William H. Church and a brother of District Attorney John W. Church, and also leaves another brother, two sisters and a mother to mourn his sad and untimely death which has cast a deep gloom over a large circle of his friends, relatives and acquaintances.

Vital Records, Chenango County, December 1877

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, December 27, 1877

Marriages

BOSWORTH - FINCH:  At the residence of the bride's parents, in Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], on Wednesday afternoon, Dec. 26th, by Rev. A. Crocker, Mr. Arthur W. Bosworth to Miss Kittie J. Finch, both of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

STRATTON - TIFFANY:  At the residence of the bride's parents in king Settlement [Chenango Co. NY], on Wednesday evening, Dec. 26th, by Rev. D.E. Loveridge, Mr. Albert C. Stratton of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Lillie M. Tiffany daughter of William R. Tiffany, Esq. 

AUSTIN - JOHNSON:  At the Palmer House, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 24th, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. Pardon Austin to Miss Exava Johnson, both of Otselic [Chenango Co. NY].

HOVEY - GIFFORD:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 16th, by Rev. W.R Baldwin, Mr. Fred Hovey to Miss Carrie O. Gifford, all of Oxford.

PER LEE - HOWE:  In Maltoryville Tompkins Co. [NY] Dec. 13th, by Rev. E.R. Wade, Mr. Fred J. Per Lee of McLean [Tompkins Co. NY] to Miss Edith A. Howe, of Dryden [Tompkins Co. NY].

LOUNSBURY - MOULTER:  In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], Dec. 20th, by Rev. Dr. R.N. Parke, Mr. W.B. Lounsbury of New York to Miss Kate N. Moulter, daughter of the late M. Moulter, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

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COMSTOCK - DANIELS:  At the Baptist Church in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Wednesday evening, Dec. 19th, by Rev. L.M.S. Haynes, assisted by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. Charles E. Comstock to Miss Julia L. Daniels, daughter of A.M. Daniels, Esq., all of Norwich.

NAGEL - COVILLE:  At the Baptist church to this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on Wednesday evening, Dec. 19th, by Rev. L.M.S. Haynes, assisted by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. George W. Nagel to Miss Emma W. Coville, all of Norwich.

A double wedding in Church is quite a rare event, and the announcement drew out a large assemblage at the Baptist Church on Wednesday evening of last week on which occasion the marriage of Mr. Charles E Comstock to Miss Julia L Daniels, daughter of Asa M. Daniels, Esq. and Mr. George W. Nagel to Miss Emma W. Coville was celebrated. A beautiful double arch was erected in front of the altar from which hung an elegant and ponderous marriage bell.  The altar was trimmed with flowers and in front of the organ was a harp constructed of everlastings.  The ceremony took place at eight o'clock and was performed by Rev. Mr. Haynes, pastor of the Church, assisted by Rev. S. Scoville.  As the party stood before the altar with a flood of light streaming upon the rich dresses of the brides and the kindly smiles of the whole audience beaming upon them, a picture was presented that will never be forgotten.  The reverend gentlemen performed the ceremony promptly and effectively and but few moments passed before the whole picture melted away like a dissolving view - the bridal party returning by carriages to the residence of Mr. Daniels, where refreshments were served and congratulations of friends tendered.  We are informed that the bridal presents were numerous and elegant and that the occasion was one of joy and pleasure.  The principals to this pleasant affair are from among our most respected young people, and in their journey together down the river of life they have the best wishes of hosts of friends.  May they live long and prosper.

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DALTON - PORTER:  At the residence of the bride's parents, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Saturday evening Dec. 22d, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. M. L. Dalton of East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Bell Porter, daughter of William D. Porter.

A pleasant party assembled at the residence of William D. Porter in this village, on Saturday evening, to participate in the marriage ceremony of their daughter, Miss Bell Porter to Mr. M.L. Dalton.  Rev. Mr. Scoville officiated in his usual happy manner, discharging the responsible clerical duty of binding together "two souls with but a single thought, two hearts that beat as one."  A number of fine bridal gifts were presented by their friends and the congratulations were most hearty.  We wish the young couple much joy in their new relation, and that their journey in life may be pleasant and prosperous to the end.

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DENNISON - HOLCOMB:  At the residence of I.H. Follett in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 20th, by Rev. D.E. Loveridge, Mr. D. Spencer Dennison of Albany [Albany Co. NY] to Miss Ella M. Holcomb of Norwich.

The following pleasant notice of a wedding which took place in this village on Thursday last, we clip from the Albany Argus of Saturday.

Mr. D. Spencer Dennison, manager of the Albany branch of the publishing house of Johnson & Miles, was united in marriage with Miss Ella May Holcomb, of Norwich, Chenango County, on Thursday.  The ceremony was performed at the residence of the bride by Rev. Mr. Loveridge.  Mr. Dennison is one of our energetic and highly respected young businessmen and has certainly drawn a prize in the hymeneal lottery, for the bride is an estimable young lady of many endearing qualities and in every respect worthy of the gentleman with whose fortunes her own are linked.  The presents were numerous and costly and were accompanied, it is needless to say, with the best wishes for the prosperity of the worthy couple.  Mr. and Mrs. Dennison will take up their residence in Albany.

Deaths

GROSS:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 21st after a long and painful illness, Mr. Alphonso Gross, aged 62 years.  Alphonso Gross, for many years a resident of this town, died at his residence on Plymouth Street, on Saturday morning last, after months of terrible suffering from cancer in the face, aged sixty-two years.  he was an upright, industrious citizen, unassuming in manner and respected by all.  His funeral was largely attended on Sunday afternoon, Rev. Mr. Crydenwise officiating.

RAFFERTY:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 24th, Mr. Bernard D. Rafferty, aged 21 years.  D.B. Rafferty aged 21 years, after a long and lingering sickness, passed from earth Monday at 3:15 A.M.  He suffered much but died resigned to the will of his Maker.  As an excellent workman and a kind-hearted young man, he will not soon be forgotten.  His funeral will occur tomorrow (Wednesday) at 11 A.M.

RAPELYE:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 20th, Mr. Peter Rapelye, aged 66 years.

LAMB:  In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], Dec. 13th, Mrs. Ann Lamb, aged 73 years, formerly of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY]

McCULLOR:  In Colesville, Broome Co. [NY], Dec. 18th, Mr. Harvey McCullor, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], aged 84 years.

HUBBARD:  "Father" John Hubbard who died at Brookfield [Madison Co. NY] on the 15th, aged 79 years was one of the old residents of that place, having lived in that town nearly all his life.

MOORE:  Anson Moore and old and respected citizen of Milford [Otsego Co. NY] was instantly killed on the 11th inst. by the falling of a tree, at Edson Corners.  O. Rathbone, who was assisting him, was also quite seriously injured.

MOORE:  In Columbus, dec. 24th, of scarlet fever, Elizabeth, daughter of Alonzo Moore, aged 5 years.  Since our notice of the death of the mother, Mrs. Ella Moore last week, two of the children have been taken away by the same disease, scarlet fever.  Only one child remains.

HART:  A little daughter of Charles Hart living near Southwick's mill in Homer [Cortland Co. NY], was fatally burned a few days since.  Her mother had left her with two other children, while she stepped into a neighbor's house for a moment.  The older one played with some loose paper, lighted it at the stove and set the child's dress on fire.  She died in thirty-six hours.

SPURR:  We learn that the late Angel C Spurr, of whose death we made mention last week, was a former resident of Columbus [Chenango Co. NY] and brother of F.J. Spurr, of that town.  A number of years ago he left for Kansas, where he has since been engaged in farming.  It seems that a creek or stream ran through his farm, over which he was accustomed to ford, and the water being high, the team got off from the usual course and were swept into deep water, and he was drowned. The two men that were with him made out to get to shore. They say that they saw him come to the surface once and cry for help, and then all was over. The remains were brought to Columbus for burial and a large concourse of friends followed him to the grave on Monday last.  New Berlin Gazette

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KANE:  In Hartford, Conn., Dec. 20th, by drowning, John Denison [Kane] son of James H. and Lucy M. Kane aged 5 years and 5 months, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

A sad drowning accident occurred in Hartford Conn., on the 20th instant, which will make many hearts in this vicinity sad.  Johnny, the little five-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. James H. Kane, formerly of this town, came to his death on that day by falling into a well.  He was a bright little fellow, and his shocking death is a terrible blow to his fond parents and friends.  Deceased was a nephew of Mr. and Mrs. Edward S. Clark, of Preston [Chenango Co. NY].

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CANNON:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 19th, Benjamin Cannon, Esq., aged 59 years.

Many hearts were made sad on Wednesday last when it was known that Benjamin Cannon had died.  Mr. Cannon was born in Cannonsville, Delaware County [NY] in 1818.  In 1835 he became a student of Oxford Academy, graduated from Union College in 1840, completed his law studies in the office of the late Henry Van DerLyn, in this village [Oxford], was admitted to the bar in 1843, commenced here the practice of the law and remained until 1850 in the meantime having been appointed Examiner in Chancery and thereafter removed to his native town.  He was elected Clerk of Delaware County in 1853 and once re-elected, and returned in 1860 to Cannonsville, where he remained until about five years since, when having purchased the homestead of the late Ira Willcox, on Fort Hill, he removed to this village.  Times

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WARDWELL:  In North Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 22d, Mr. Myron Wardwell aged 48 years.

Myron Wardwell, son of the late Benjamin Wardwell, died last Saturday night about 11 o'clock, from injuries received by the fall of a limb, while engaged in cutting logs for Erasamus Brown, Esq., on the farm owned by Emery Barnes.  Mr. Brown and his son, Lu, and another hired man, were with Wardwell at the time of the accident.  It seems they had cut a maple tree, and while the tree was falling, some of the party saw a limb falling directly over Wardwell's head and called loudly to him to get out of the way of its descent, but for some unknown cause he gave no heed to the call.  The limb struck him upon the right portion of the head, thence, glancing off, striking his shoulder and crushing him to the earth.  he was taken to the residence of Mr. Brown, where he received the care of kind friends, and medical treatment, but of no avail.  He having no relatives hereabouts, the neighbors have given him proper care and attention through his troubles and death.  The funeral services will be held from the Methodist Church, at North Pharsalia, at 12 o'clock today.  He was the only mourner at his father's funeral, and now there is no relative here to bear a part in the funeral obsequies today.  He was forty-eight years of age.  He leaves no family relatives except a younger brother, who resides in Oregon.