Vital Records, Otsego County, NY

 Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, January 31, 1878

Marriage

In Milford [Otsego Co. NY], January 29th, 1878, by Rev. A.B. Richardson, Charley Martindale of Otego [Otsego Co. NY] and Emma Sherman of Milford.

Deaths

In Richfield [Otsego Co. NY], Jan. 20th, Mrs. Polly Brown wife of Norman Brown in the 70th year of her age.

At the house of Wm. Rockwell in New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY] Jan. 17, Mrs. Ursula Jenks aged about 71 years.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, Jan. 23, 1878:  Death has again visited our neighborhood and removed Mrs. Jenks, who resided with her brother-in-law, Wm. Rockwell.  She was about 71 years of age.  Some three months since a spot on her tongue which had troubled her very much was pronounced to be a cancer.  Since that time it continued to grow worse and now death has released her form suffering.

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY], Jan. 18, Mrs. Cyntha M. Lull, aged 37 years and 3 months, wife of Mr. Edward Lull, and daughter of Mr. Orrin Moore.

At Session Hill, Jan. 6, Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], Mrs. Louisa Griffis, aged 63 years.

In West Burlington [Otsego Co. NY], Dec. 8, '77 of quick consumption, Harvey E. Bolton aged 22 years.

Mr. B. leaves a wife and three small children to mourn his loss.  His earthly work was early and well done.  His days of suffering are over, and the ransomed spirit now joins in praise with the throng around the throne of God.

A Veteran Gone - Says the Worcester Times [Otsego Co. NY]:  "News came to us from Madison, Ohio, that Mr. Thomas Bates, formerly of the town of Westford [Otsego Co. NY], died Jan. 6th, at the residence of his son John Bates.  He attained the remarkable age of 88 years and had been a member of the Baptist church 72 years.  During the active part of his life, he took deep interest in all that pertained to the upbuilding of the church at Westville of which he led the singing for many years."

Lieut. Frank C. Worden died at his residence in Farmington, Ill., Tuesday morning, Jan. 8, 1878, aged 42 years and 8 months.  Frank C. Worden was born in Otsego County [NY], March 4, 1857.  He was married to Miss Sybil Lull of Morris [Otsego Co. NY] and with her removed to Norwich, Chenango County [NY] where they resided six months and then removed to Illinois, settling at Farmington, where he carried on the furniture business, until the breaking out of the war of the rebellion, when he entered the 11th Illinois Calvary as lieutenant of Company B.  He took an active part in the battle of Shiloh, but on May 22, 1863, he resigned his commission and returned home, his health having failed him.  On his return home he resumed the furniture business, which he continued until the fall of 1873, when he sold out and went into business in Peoria.  He remained in that city but about a year and a half, when he returned to Farmington and purchased an interest in his old business which he retained until with a few days of his death.  Farmington News

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, August 11, 1869

Deaths

In Columbus [Chenango Co. NY], July 22, Prudence [Ames] wife of James Ames, aged 69 years.

On Monday, August 2d, Mr. Morgan Lewis of Sand Hill [Otsego Co. NY] left his house and went to the field to spread hay.  A few minutes later he was found lying upon his back dead.  Mr. L. was about fifty-six years of age.  The cause of his death was probably heart disease.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, September 7, 1853

Marriage

In Burlington Flats [Otsego Co., NY] on the 28th ult. by Elder Rogers, Mr. Sanford S. Shepard of Greene [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Abigail Chapin of the former place.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, February 21, 1849

Connubial Bonds - "The silken tie that binds two willing hearts!"

In this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY], on the 14th inst. by Rev. W.C. Loomis, Geo. E. Hitchcock to Miss Emily Barrs, both of Springfield [Otsego Co. NY].

The Sepulchral Hrn. - "Thou hast all seasons for thine own, O! Death."

In Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY], on the 154th inst. Mary [Burton] wife of Mr. Daniel Burton in the 71st year of her age.

In the death of Mrs. Burton, her husband, children, and friends have met with an irrecoverable loss.  Although not a native of this country, she has been a resident here some twenty-eight years, beloved by all who knew her for her benevolence and Christian virtues.  The stranger in distress, the sick and needy she never passed unaided. She left a large circle of children and grandchildren, who deeply feel her loss and though severely afflicted during her short illness, she bore all with Christian fortitude and resignation, and left us with the full use of her intellectual faculties and could have said with truth "My friends, stand by my side and see how easy a Christian can die!"

Letter from the Civil War, December 1862 (Stall)

 Union News, Union, Broome Co., NY, January 22, 1863

Head Quarters, 137th Reg't. Camp near Fairfax Station, Va., January 12th, 1863

Friend Benedict:  Thinking a line from a soldier boy would be acceptable in your place, I will attempt to give you a few lines from the 137th.  You have undoubtedly ere this heard of our departure from Bolivar Heights and you many be sure that a happy lot of men left the Heights on the morning of Dec. 10th, for we had lost so many comrades there that the very name of Bolivar Heights was enough to make the heart of the strongest man in the army leap into his throat for no one knew what the morrow would bring forth.  If a man was well and hearty one day, he might be on his death bed the next.  We left there with the intention of going direct to Fredericksburgh and after marching seven days, we arrived at Dumfries, within forty miles of Fredericksburgh, when we were ordered to take the back track as far as Fairfax Station and wait for further orders and we are still here waiting, and I have fairly come to the conclusion that there is a screw loose somewhere in this Government Machinery.  

Here we are - officers as well as privates - out of money, out of clothes and to sum the whole thing up, entirely out of patience.  No doubt the people at the North blame the men for deserting from the army, but when they come to know the whole facts and take into consideration that quite a large portion of the army is composed of poor laboring men who have come here and enlisted for the defense of their country, leaving (many of them) large families at home, dependent entirely on the scanty pay allowed soldiers for his support, I say no honest person can blame a man of this kind, when they learn that they receive no pay for four, six, eight and some of them even eleven months and many of them not clothes enough to cover their nakedness, although the northern press are always praising how well the army of the Potomac were clothed.  We have plenty to eat, but there seems to be something wrong about pay and clothing.  

The boys in the Regiment are generally healthy, only about one hundred on the sick list that are now present.  The rest are in Hospitals at different places. We now muster six hundred and sixty officers and privates.  Some officers have resigned, some have gone north on a leave of absence, and some have gone without any leave [-unreadable-].  Our Colonel is on a leave of absence at Binghamton, and our adjutant also started for home this morning, and I understand he has resigned, although I do not tell this for a truth.  But one thing I do know, and that is there is a great deal of dissatisfaction in the army.  

So far as my humble self is concerned, I have been very much favored since I came into Virginia.  I am now occupying the position of Commissary Sargeant which brings me into the non-Commissioned Staff and is rather a difficult position to hold, for I either have to please or displease every officer and private in the Reg't.

We have had the most beautiful weather as a general thing, since we left Binghamton, that could possibly be imagined.  We have had very little or as it might properly be called, no cold weather and not much more rainy weather than cold.  In all the marches we have made we have had one snowstorm that was quite a severe one to the men and on our last march it rained for a few hours one morning.  Since we left Bolivar, there has not been snow enough where we have been to whiten the ground and there is no frost in the ground at all, but citizens tell me it is an exceedingly warm winter here and think they are highly favored by Providence.

More anon.  Stall

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY January 1878 & June 1876

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY,  January 23, 1878

Marriage

BROWN - ARCHER:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY Jan. 9th, by Rev. E.P. Eldredge, Mr. Elijah A. Brown to Miss Sarah Archer.

News Item

Oxford Academy was chartered by the Regents of the University Jan. 27th, 1791.  The present building [in 1878] is the fifth structure erected.  The first stood on Washington Square, near the present residence of W.H. VanWagenen and was the first frame building erected in Oxford.  In 1797 the second was in process of erection on the lot at the corner of Merchant's Row and Greene Street, which was destroyed by fire about two years after.  The third was built under the patronage of the State and stood upon the ruins of the second.  The fourth was erected on Fort Hill, near the residence of G.H. Perkins.  Afterwards it was removed and is the boarding hall now occupied by Rev. F.B. Lewis principal of the school.  The fifth and present building was erected in 1854.  For many years Oxford Academy bore the highest reputation of any Academy west of the Hudson River and its roll numbered many celebrated men of the present day.

In August 1854, the sixtieth anniversary of the institution was celebrated, which was known as the Oxford Jubilee.  It was a great occasion and the crowd and incidents are still fresh in the minds of many of our readers.  In sixteen years its one hundredth anniversary can be celebrated.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, January 24, 1878

Death

The death of Mrs. Martha S Bryan, who died on the 17th day of January 1878, is an event that is deserving of more than a passing notice.  Mrs. Bryan was a daughter of Jeremiah Gilman and born in New Hampshire. She came to Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] with her parents in her childhood.  She married to the late Chester Bryan and was the mother of four children, two of whom survive her - Edgar Bryan and Mrs. J.M. Gager - both of whom are well-known and much respected.  Mrs. Bryan was a woman of more than ordinary intelligence, of deep thought and generous action and her counsel was often sought by many who had confidence in her judgment or yearned for sympathy.  In her later years she embraced the harmonial philosophy and her upright and consistent life evidenced her sincerity of purpose and the correctness of her moral monitor.  Thoroughly devoted to family and friends she was ever ready to extend a helping hand to the needy and the benefit of her experience to the afflicted.  By all of her acquaintances she was beloved and is mourned by them as a loss irreparable.  Her last illness was long and painfully lingering but borne with a fortitude that attested her confidence in the faith she adopted, and she died in the full hope of a bright future beyond the grave.  Her funeral was attended by a large concourse of friends and an appropriate and impressive discourse preached by Rev. D. Ballou.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, January 24, 1878

Marriage

WHITING - BUTLER:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] at the house of Elihu Bennett, Jan. 22d, 1878 by Rev. N.S. Reynolds, Mr. F.A. Whiting of Greene, N.Y. [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Dora G. Butler, of Guilford, N.Y. [Chenango Co.].

UTTER - PARSONS:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 22, 1878, by Rev. D.C. Haynes, Charles Utter of East Bainbridge and Miss Anna Parsons of East Guilford [Chenango Co. NY]

Deaths

NORTHRUP:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 22d of typhoid fever, Lena [Northrup] wife of John Northrup aged 19 years.

CARROLL:  Hon. G.R. Carroll of Camden [Oneida Co. NY] dropped dead at his residence 2d inst. and his brother, Kiron Carroll, of Rome [Oneida Co. NY], dropped dead 5th inst. on his way to his brother's funeral.  They were formerly of Springfield [Otsego Co. NY].

Home Sentinel, Afton, NY, June 3, 1876

Marriage

TERRY - SAUNDERS:  By L.S. Russell, Esq. at his residence in Sanford [Broome Co. NY], May 22d, Orrin W. Terry to Hattie K. Saunders, both of Colesville [Broome Co. NY].

Deaths

Infant son of john and Sarah Skelly on Sunday the 23d ult, aged 19 months.

Card of Thanks:  Mr. and Mrs. J. Skelly desire to tender their sincere and heartfelt thanks and prayer for Divine favor through our columns to their friends for their kind assistance rendered in the sickness and burial of their deceased child.

_____________________________

In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], May 29th ult., Daniel Bond, aged 55 years, 4 months and 27 days.

He has gone to his rest, / His labor is done. / He now dwells with the blest / Through the Father and Son.

About 8 o'clock, last Monday, train 12 going east struck and fatally injured Daniel Bond, a workman on this section of the road.  It seems the men were repairing the track about 2-1/2 miles of this place and as the train came near, they all stepped off the track.  Mr. Bond seeing some tool left behind reached for it just as the engine came up to them, when the cross beam or cylinder struck him on the side of the head, crushing the skull.  He lived probably 60 minutes and expired.  Dr. Hayes was summoned and was prompt to attend the call, but the poor man breathed only a few moments after he arrived.  He was about fifty-five years of age and leaves a family to mourn his loss.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY January 1878

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, January 24, 1878

Marriages

CROOK - BURDICK:  In Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY] at 111-1/2 West Fayette St. on Wednesday, Jan. 17th, 1878, by Rev. J.E. Pratt, Rector of Trinity Church, Mr. Arthur J. Crook to Miss M. Louise Burdick daughter of J.H. Burdick, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

ROCHE - NORMILE:  At St. Patrick's Church, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 14th, by Rev. Father Harrigan, Mr. Daniel Roche of Mcdonough [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Maggie Normile of Norwich.

PEASE - LEET:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 15th, by Rev. G.R. Foster, Mr. George W. Pease to Miss Viola L. Leet, both of Smyrna.

ALLING - STEWART:  In Stockbridge [Madison Co. NY], Jan. 6th, by Rev. W.B. Heard, Mr. John N. Alling of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Flora H Stewart of Stockbridge.

RAPELYE - SLOAN:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 6th by Rev. H.N. Van Deusen, Mr. George H. Rapelye of Afton to Miss Sarah A. Sloan of Carbondale, Pa.

VAN DEUSEN - LAMB:  In Beaver Meadow [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 10th, by Rev. S.H. Adlamer, Mr. Jerome Van Deusen to Miss Nettie Lamb all of Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY].

SKINNER - BAILEY:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 15th, by Rev. W Scott, Mr. Linn A. Skinner of New Berlin Centre to Miss Frankie J. Bailey of South New Berlin.

WARD - McCUNE:  In Marysville, Cal. Jan. 7th, Mr. Wm. W. Ward of Smartsville [Oswego Co. NY] to Miss Lizzie McCune of Sutter Co. and formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

FRINK:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 16th, Mr. Randall Frink, aged 78 years.

JOHNSON:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY] Jan. 21st, Mr. John J. Johnson aged 59 years, father of Mrs. George W. Ray of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

HANSON:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], Jan. 12th, Hortense M. Hanson, aged 30 years and 9 months.

NORTHRUP:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 21st, Mrs. John Northrup.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, January 23, 1878

Deaths

CASTLE:  In Otego [Otsego Co. NY], January 14, 1878, Helen [Castle] daughter of Warren Castle.

MESSENGER:  Aunt Ann Messenger an old lady well known in this vicinity, died at Preston Poor House [Chenango Co. NY], and was buried at Rhode Island Settlement [White Store], on January 9th.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, January 26, 1878

Marriage

WHITBECK - HAIGHT:  At the residence of Mr. Gerry Rice in Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 15, 1878, by Rev. E. P. Eldredge, Mr Cornelius Whitbeck to Mrs. David L. Haight all of Greene, N.Y.

Deaths

BARTON:  At the residence of Mrs. J.B. Wheeler, in Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 18th, Mr. Samuel Barton, aged 63 years.

SPEAR:  In Hamilton N. Y. [Madison Co. NY] Jan 19th, of pneumonia, Esther J. Spear aged 61 years, wife of Dr. P.B. Spear of Madison University.

WILCOX:  Edward Wilcox a son of Dudley Wilcox of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] who was at work in a tannery at Hamilton [Madison Co. NY], was caught in a shaft on Thursday and instantly killed.  He had been at work in the tannery for about a year and had no doubt become careless about the machinery.  He was caught in the shaft which was revolving very rapidly, and one arm and one leg torn off and his body otherwise fearfully mangled. The deceased was 22 years of age and a sober and industrious man who was esteemed by all who knew him.

Vital Records, Otsego & Broome Counties NY

 Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, March 21, 1855

Marriages

In Milford [Otsego Co. NY], by Elder J. Cooke, on the 13th instant, Mr. Charles B. Card to Miss Sarah Jane [Townsend], daughter of Mr. Solomon Townsend, both of Milford.

In Jordanville [Herkimer Co. NY] on the 11th inst. by Rev. L. Bolton, Mr. Carpenter Shaul of Stark [Herkimer Co. NY] to Miss Helen E Jewel of Warren [Herkimer Co. NY].

In Richfield [Otsego Co. NY] at the Pine Grove House, on the 13th inst. by the same, Mr. Orville P. Watson to Miss Calista A Swift, both of Richfield.

Deaths

In this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY], on the 5th inst. Mrs. Martha Baker aged 77 years.

In this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY], on the 20th, of Feb., Mary Ann [Hill] daughter of Harvey B. and Sarah M. Hill, aged 8 years and 16 days.

In Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] on the 8th inst. Mrs. Loraine Gage, wife of Erastus G. Gage, aged 25 years.

At East Springfield [Otsego Co. NY], on the 11th inst. Almira Gray wife of Clark Gray, in the 34th year of her age.

In this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY], on Saturday evening last, Mrs. Sally Rudd consort of Mr. Jonathan Rudd in the 81st year of her age.  Mrs. Rudd although a native of the State of Connecticut has with her husband resided in this village for the last -?-.  She was highly esteemed by all who knew her for her quiet social and domestic virtues and for her morality and piety.  She has borne and brought up a numerous and respected family of children, who together with her aged husband survive to lament the loss of a tender parent and affectionate wife.

News Item

The Poole Tragedy - Verdict of the Coroner's jury

The inquisition to find cause of the death of William Poole, closed at 2 o'clock Saturday, when the jury retired.  At 6 o'clock they returned the following verdict.:

We find that the death of Mr. Poole was caused by a gushing wound from a pistol in the hand of Louis Baker at Stanwix Hall in Broadway on the morning of the 25th of February 1855.

We find that James Turner and Patrick McLaughlin, alias Paudeen were guilty of aiding and abetting in the murder of Mr. Poole.

We find John Hyler, Cornelius Linn and Charles Van Pelt guilty as accessories before the fact.

We likewise find John Morrisey guilty of an assault with an intent to take the life of Wm. Poole and that he was accessory to the murder of said Wm. Poole by association on the evening preceding the murder.

We likewise find James Irvin accessory before the fact.

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, May 1, 1847

Deaths

At Rochester, Indiana, on the 7th ult. Lyman Brackett, M.D. aged 28 years and 5 months.

At Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], on the 25th of march, Mr. Ebenezer Gregory aged 50 years.

At Jackson, Mississippi, on the 28th Feb. last, Miss Mary Westcott daughter of Doctor Gardiner Westcott of Springfield, Otsego Co. N.Y. in the 20th year of her age.

Union News, Union, NY [Broome Co.], January 22, 1863

Deaths

In the town of Nanticoke, Broome Co. N.Y. Jan. 7th, 1863, of diptheria, Ida [Cary], daughter of Nathan Cary of Lamb's Corners [Chenango Co. NY], in the 12th year of her age.

In Vestal, Broome Co. N.Y., Dec. 11th, '62, Mrs. Abigail Russell in the 80th year of age, widow of Jeremiah Russell, who died a few years ago.

Sister Russell and her husband moved into the neighborhood of Tracy Creek, where they have lived until they were removed by death.  Sister R. has been a member of the Church of God for a good many years and has always sustained a good Christian character till her death.  I visited her twice during her sickness when she expressed her willingness to leave this world of sorrow for the world of Glory.

Now I have done with earthly things, / And all around is boundless bliss; / My eager spirit spreads her wings, / Jesus says come, I answer yes.

Letter from the Civil War, January 1863 (Henry R. Daniels)

 Union News, Union, NY, January 22, 1863

Owego, Dec. 27th, 1862

Mr. Editor:  Please let these lines have a place in your column for the purpose of informing the people of Union and vicinity of the facts of my so-called desertion from Capt. O.E. Hines Co.  It is known by some that on the 11th day of Feb. last, I went into a hospital near Washington, sick with typhoid fever and after remaining there two months and a half my father (being there taking care of me) we started for home, my father carrying me in his arms, as I was unable to stand up without assistance. We reached home the third day after leaving Washington and it was two weeks after that before I could stand on my feet.

I remained at home nearly five months unable to do work of any kind.  Capt. Hine then sent word to me to come back to my Company and if I was not fit for duty, he would have me discharged from the service.  I should have stated before that they gave me a furlough of thirty days when I left Washington, and said they would send my discharge before the expiration of that time, but it did not come, and I got two certificates of disability from Dr. Sprague of Owego at different times and sent them to the Regiment, one to Col Stuarr and one to Capt. Hine.

On the 18th day of Aug. I started for Washington, but on reaching there I learned that my company was at Alexandria and so to Alexandria I went.  I had been there but a few hours, when Capt. Hine told me he had got my discharge made out and sent it to headquarters at Washington to be signed and that he expected to get it in a few days.  He said that if I had stayed at home a few days longer, I would have got my discharge without coming down there.  He asked me if I want it and I told him I did not think I should ever be fit for duty again.  There was no more said about it, and I went at work doing light duty expecting every day to get my discharge. The Capt. never spoke to me about it again till the 18th of Nov., I think it was, I asked him what had become of my discharge?  "Why," said he, "I thought you did not want it and I burned it up."  He said he got it the second day after my return to the Company.  I thought he had no right to destroy it and went to a Lawyer in the city of Washington and told him my story.  He said Capt. Hine had no business to destroy a discharge and that they could not arrest me as a deserter if I went home.

Now, under the circumstances I contend that I am not a deserter, but an honorably discharged soldier for the reason that I have been discharged and have not enlisted since.

If Capt.  Hine thinks he can make me out a deserter, he can come and arrest me as such and have me punished accordingly.  He will find me in Bennington Co., Vermont till next Spring.  After that he will find me at home.

I do not know as I can say anymore to enlighten my friends concerning my skedaddle, therefore permit me to subscribe myself.  Respectfully yours, Henry R. Daniels.

Vital Records, Otsego Co., New York

 Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, August 4, 1869

Marriage

In Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY], July 25th, by Rev. Gilbert R. Denny, George E. Jennison to Miss Marretta Howe.  

Deaths

In this village [Morris, Otsego Co. NY], July 30th, Mrs. Amarilla Cooke aged 67 years.

In this village [Morris, Otsego Co. NY] July 30th, Mrs. Esther Gifford aged 70 years and 8 months.

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY], Aug. 1st, Mr. H. Russell, aged about 60 years.

Saturday, the 24th of July, Cortland Caruth, who had charge of a gang of hands on the Midland railroad, connected with bridge masonry near Sidney [Delaware Co. NY], was engaged in elevating a stone of seven or eight tons weight, three miles above Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], when he was instantly killed, and two others seriously injured.  The accident was occasioned by the giving way of one of the guys and the falling of the derrick.  The derrick struck Mr. Caruth across the chest and crushed him.

Oneonta Herald & Democrat, Oneonta, NY, January 18, 1878

Marriage

At Davenport [Delaware Co. NY] Jan. 9th, by Rev. J.H. Wright, D.R. Sprague of Davenport and Katie M. Wolf of East Meredith [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

In Croton, Jan. 13th, Leroy Williams, aged nearly 5 years.

Ouleout, Delaware Co. NY:  The funeral services of the son of Jonas Williams, aged five years, were held at the M.E. church yesterday.  Disease, scarlet fever.  Mr. W. is sick with the same.

In Davenport [Delaware Co. NY], Jan. 12th, Janet J. Steele, aged 13 years.

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY], Jan. 12th, Hellen [Castle] aged 16 years.

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY], Jan. 8th, Theodocia Thomas aged 58 years.

At Unadilla Centre [Otsego Co. NY], Jan. 12th, Mrs. Ruth Newland, widow of the late Deacon L. Newland of Otego, aged 51 years.

Garrattsville, Otsego Co. NY:  A woman by the name of [Anna] Burdick died at the home of Joseph Neff, of this village of inflammatory rheumatism of the heart.  Her remains were taken to Burlington Flats [Otsego Co. NY] for interment. [Aged 63 years]

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, August 24, 1853

Marriages

At the hotel of John Williams, in the village of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], on the 18th inst. by Geo. W. Sumner, Esq. John W. Root to Miss Amelia Ann Gunn, all of this place [Oneonta, Otsego Co. NY].

In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], on the 7th inst. by Rev. E. Baldwin, Mr. Oscar Strait to Miss Zulen A. Cooke, both of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY].

At the same place by the same on the 11th inst. Mr. Davis Sanders of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY], to Miss Mary Jane Burchard of Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], on the 13th inst. Mr. Henry Hanford, aged 35(?) years.

We learn from the Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] papers that Miss Ophelia Antisdell of Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY] was drowned at -?- Five Mile Point, on Tuesday afternoon the 16th inst.  Miss Antisdell was one of a party of ladies and gentlemen from Middlefield who had gone on a picnic excursion up the Lake.  Miss A. in company with another young lady attired themselves in bathing dresses and proceeded to a retired spot, a few rods below the Hotel for the purpose of bathing.  They joined hands and waded to where the water was some two feet deep when they separated.  Her companion turned toward the shore and when she looked around the unfortunate girl was struggling with her head just above the water, but immediately disappeared and did not raise to the surface again. The most vigilant efforts were made to rescue her before life was extinct but to no purpose.  The body was not recovered till the next day.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, February 14, 1849

Connubial Bonds - "The silken tie that binds two willing hearts!"

In Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY], on the 28th ult. by R.S. Lent, Mr. Pattengill of Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss H. Banmey.

In Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY], on the 8th inst. by the Rev. Stephen H. Battin, Henry F. Phinney to Caroline Martha [Cooper] daughter of J.F Cooper.

In this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY], on the 31st ult. by Rev. W. C. Loomis, Geo. W. Smith to Caroline M. Van Deusen.

Also Feb. 8th, Simeon J. Andrews to Rachel Ann Wigley, all of Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY].

The Sepulchral Hrn. - "Thou hast all seasons for thine own, O! Death."

In Warren on the 27th ult. Mr. Garritt Wikoff aged 76 years, father of Mr. John Wikoff of this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY].

At Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], on the 23 inst. John Cox Morris, Esq., int he 69th year of his age, second son of the late Gen. Jacob Morris and grandson of Lewis Morris, one of the signers of the Declaration of American Independence.

Death of Wells S. Hammond

We are pained to announce the sudden death by a paralytic shock in Albany [Albany Co. NY], on Sunday morning last of Wells S. Hammond, Esq. of Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY], only son of Hon. Jabez D. Hammond.  Mr. H. left home for Albany on Thursday on professional business, which he transacted on Friday and the day following.  On Saturday evening at 11 o'clock he retired to rest in accustomed health, at his lodgings at Stanwix Hall.  On Sunday morning his fellow lodgers in adjoining rooms were awakened by sounds of distress proceeding from the room occupied by Mr. H. and on forcing the door, Mr. Hammond was discovered lying upon the floor, paralyzed and nearly speechless.  He survived only an hour or two after his situation had become known.  Mr. H. was a young man of fine talents, of stern integrity, of courteous and kindly bearing in private intercourse and in his social relations and bid fair to attain high and honorable rank in his profession.  But he has been cut down ere his sun had reached its meridian and at a period when life is full of hope and of promise. Though politically differing with the deceased, our relations were ever of a cordial and friendly character.  His death is a severe blow to his surviving parents and come in a form calculated to inspire the liveliest sympathy in their behalf.

Vital Records, Otsego & Broome Counties NY,

 Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, January 17, 1878

Marriages

At the Baptist Parsonage in Clarksville [Allegany Co. NY], January 8th, by Rev. J.P. Way, Oscar McClinrock to Addie M. Aldrich, both of Westford [Otsego Co. NY].

By Rev. P.V. Finch in Dearer, on the evening of December 31st, 1877, Dr. A. Nelson Beach of Edgerton, Colorado, and Miss Maude L. Elworthy of St. Louis, Missouri.

Deaths

IIn the town of Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY], Feb. Arthur W. [Steere] son of Amasa and Ann Eliza Steere, aged 2 years and 6 months.

In Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY], Jan. 11th, Miss Kate [Brown] youngest daughter of Moses R. Brown in the 18th year of her age.

In Richfield Springs [Otsego Co. NY], January 5th, '78, Mrs. Mary An Gould int he 80th year of her age.

In Westford, on the 16th November last, Louisa Ann [Baker] wife of Morgan Baker, aged 49 years.

________________________

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], on the morning of the 15th inst., John R. Worthington aged 74 years and one month.  Funeral from the Episcopal Church, Friday, at 3 P.M.

Death of John Richard Worthington:  Of the 38 "old residents" mentioned in the "History of Cooperstown" published in 1862, as then living here and who had been permanent residents of the village fifty years and over, only 9 survived on the 1st of January.  On that pleasant winter day one of them, who had been for several months in rather failing health, quite surprised his family by cheerfully announcing that he wished a carriage at noon, as he intended "making calls on some of his old friends," and yet it was characteristic of the veteran yet young-hearted subject of our sketch whose death on Tuesday morning last again broke the ranks of that small circle of "old residents."  Unable to enter their dwellings where his presence on so many previous New York anniversaries had always been most welcome, he left his card for those to whom he desired once more to pay his respects.

Captain Worthington was born in this village [Cooperstown] in December 1804, in the dwelling forming a part of the house in which he continued to live and from which he will be buried.  We know of but one or two older native residents of Cooperstown.  He entered early into active business as a manufacturer and merchant in which he was successful beyond most country dealers and in March 1855 he established the "Worthington Bank" with a nominal capital of $50,000, but in which he employed considerably more means.  He continued it as the "Worthington National Bank" until 1871, when he sold the charter to an association in Oneonta.  A private banking house was continued by him until his health began to fail about two years ago.  As a banker Mr. W. was always very accommodating to those who needed aid, and he would often accept inadequate security from such as fully enjoyed his confidence which habit finally entailed heavy losses upon him.  He undertook large business ventures late in life, as special partner in a wholesale dry goods house in New York and in banking at the west, and like almost every other capitalist so engaged since the war, met with losses which few men of his slight physique could have stood with such cheerful courage.  But it was in such trials that the nerve and real force of character of the man were shown.  For half a century a capitalist of large ready means, his aid was sought by near relatives and others to whom it was freely extended, often as a token of his friendship and confidence and by means of which some very large fortunes were amassed by those to whom he gave a start in business life.

Capt. Worthington was first a Whig and then a Republican in his political views, but during the time we knew him he made it a rule in voting for local candidates for office to select those for his suffrage whom he deemed most capable and worthy.

It was in the home and social circles that Mr. W. was known to the best advantage.  He was himself most excellent company; always kind-hearted, cheerful and lively, and ready at any proper time to enter heartily into the innocent amusements of the young.  Surrounded by a large family of children, his house was for a long series of years the pleasant resort of their associates and those older, whose enjoyment it was the pleasure of our friend to promote.  The writer was privileged to know him most intimately for twenty-five years during most of which time our places of business were directly opposite each other, and a friendship sprung up which lasted without a ripple to disturb its pleasure or intimacy until the hour on Monday evening when slowly falling into his final sleep, he said he knew the old friend who for the last time grasped his hand.  He recognized those tenderly ministering to his comfort for some time after 3 o'clock with an occasional remark that evinced some of his old-time quiet humor and as the day broke passed away.  His place in the business mart, in the family and social circles, in the church where he held the office of Warden, are all vacant now.  He has sooner than was expected "passed on before" those who will miss the tender-hearted relative and friend, the agreeable and companionable associate.  Those who knew him best, will most feel the loss of the cheerful, pleasant, companionable "old resident." 

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, January 16, 1878

Marriages

Jan. 8:  At Zion Church, Morris [Otsego Co. NY], by the Rev. Hobart Cooke, Charles H. Dixson to Miss Mary A. Munroe of Burlington [Otsego Co. NY].

Jan. 10:  In Gilbertsville [Otsego Co. NY], by Rev. J.V. Nellis, Geo. W. Pardoe of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], to Miss Hattie L. Kellogg of Gilbertsville.

Deaths

Jan. 14:  In Morris [Otsego Co. NY], Mr. Orrin Roberts aged 69 years.

Jan. 11:  At Burlington Flats [Otsego Co. NY], Mrs. Eunice Bunn aged 79 year, 8 months and 2 days.

On Friday morning last (Jan. 11th), Mrs. Eunice Bunn, sister of Mr. David E. Whitcomb, of this town [Morris, Otsego co. NY] who resided at the house of L.C. Burdick, in Burlington, died very suddenly.  She retired to her room the night previous in her usual health and for several days previous had been quite cheerful.  About 4 o'clock in the morning she told Mrs. Rathbun, her sister, who had got up to build a fire, that she did not feel very well, "there was such a fluttering of her heart," and she raised up in bed and lit a lamp. She soon laid down again.  After a few moments Mrs. Rathbun went to her bedside and she was just breathing her last; having quietly without a grown or a struggle, been "gathered to her people."  Mrs. Bunn was the widow of Mr. Scott Bunn, who formerly resided in Laurens [Otsego Co. NY].  She had been a consistent member of the Baptist Chruch for a great number of years and died believing in the Lord Jesus Christ.  She was in the 80th year of her age.  Her funeral was attended from the residence of David E. Whitcomb on Sunday last, and her remains were taken to Laurens for burial.

Union News, Union, NY, January 8, 1863

Death

Died on Dec. 7th, 1862, at the Camp of the 89th Regiment N.Y. S.V. near Falmouth, Va. Sergeant Asa L. Howard  of Maine in this county [Broome Co. NY] aged 22 years, 10 months and 20 days.

In the death of Sergeant Howard, the Army has lost one of its best soldiers and our Country one of its earliest and bravest defenders.

Sergeant Howard volunteered as a soldier to do battle for the Union in our "gallant 27th" on the 6th of July, 1861, and although fresh from the peaceful walks of private life, he distinguished himself for coolness and bravery on the ever memorable field of "Bull Run," where he had received a severe injury by being struck in the breast by a fragment of a shell, in consequence of which he was honorably discharged from the service on the 2d of August following.

Having, in a manner, recovered from his injuries, he, in December following, re-enlisted in the '89th" where he served with honor to the time of his death, especially at Roanoke Island, Camden, Newburn, South Mountain and  -?-.  At Camden he won the distinguished honor of first planting the Glorious old Flag on the works of the enemy.

When but a lad, Serg't Howard manifested that desire for knowledge which always characterized his actions.  Having prepared himself for the purpose by attending several terms in the Seminary at Binghamton, he Spent a year of earnest, unwearied study in the State Normal School at Albany where he graduated with high honors, before he was twenty years old.  This early training and mental discipline seemed to prepare his mind and fit him to judge correctly of the ultimate value of our system of popular Governments and the institutions of our Country and enabled him freely and voluntarily in the line of his duty to offer up his life in their maintenance.

To his comrades in the army, as well as to the numerous friends and relations at home, the American People owe their warmest sympathies.

Letter From the Civil War, December 1862

 Union News, Union, NY, Broome Co. NY, January 1, 1863

We have been handed the following private letter, written shortly after the battle of Fredericksburgh, which we give our readers:

Camp Near Falmouth Station, Sunday, Dec. 14th, 1862

My Dear Mother and Friends, I now take a little time to write, but by so doing I deprive myself of rest, that on almost any other occasion I should think I could not get along without, but as it is, I think it my duty to write, if possible, although I have not but little of good news.  I hope you will not start when you read the bad part of it!  I will commence back to last Wednesday the 10th, when we started out about 3 o'clock p.m. with the pontoon train, calculating to lay some bridges across the Rappahannock somewhere, we did not know where.  Well, as it was quite muddy, we had a very hard night's work to get the train up the hills and through the mud holes, but however, 3 o'clock the next morning found us on the bank of the river right opposite Fredericksburgh, and we immediately had orders to lay a bridge.  The river is about 300 feet wide at this point and the city of Fredericksburgh lays on the bank of the river, and the banks of the river are very high on both sides.  Well, according to orders, we went to work unloading the bridges from the wagons and began to lay it across the river.  We got the bridge just about halfway across and O, horror! how the blue pills flew (and how we pontooners flew too).  We ran from the bridge to the shore and lay down, and then there came another volley of balls, which killed our Captain.  The last words he was heard to say was "Boys, take care of yourselves to the best you can, I am a dead man."  The balls continued to fly, so we all got away from them the best we could.  There was none of our boys wounded this time as I know of but Hughson Gardner.  He got run over by one of the teams which hurt him pretty had.  This was about daylight, and the artillery immediately began to play from our side.  It played about three hours and then it stopped, and we went down and made another attempt to lay the bridge, but we were driven from it again by the rebel sharpshooters, which was secreted in the cellars and the brick buildings on the opposite side.  Our artillery then renewed their fire, and in about three hours more we could see white flags waving from the windows in different places in the city, and we could hear women and children scream.  Oh! was it not horrible?  But you know war is horrible if you make the best of it, so I will go on.  About 3 o'clock p.m. Gen. Burnside and Gen. Woodbury came down near the bridge and had a little talk.  Burnside told Woodbury that the bridge must be laid, and if the 50th could not lay it, he would find a Regiment that would.  Gen Woodbury told Burnside that the 50th could lay it, if anybody so set us to work or made out the details to lay the bridge, and also made out a detail of seven boat squads to take infantry across the river to drive the rebs away, while the rest of the boys lay the bridge. Well, as it happened, I was one of the boatmen, so down I went with the rest of my squad, which consisted of two boys of our company, and got into a boat, and the infantry came right along and got into the boat like men, and across we went amid a storm of bullets.  Now I do not want to brag, but I will say here, that I was the first man that stepped on the shore of the Rappahannock opposite Fredericksburgh.  You understand there was seven boats and twenty-one in each boat, and they all landed immediately after I did.  There was only one man shot going over and one of our boys took his gun, but when we started to go back, one of my boat squad was shot dead - his name was Hanson Champlin - he belongs to our company.  Well, the infantry we took over made a charge on the rebs and drove them from the buildings opposite our bridge, so our men did not suffer quite so badly while engaged finishing the bridge.  The bridge was soon finished, and troops soon began to cross.  The first prisoners taken were taken by the men from our company.  There was one that took the man's place that was shot while crossing.  His name is Martin V. Mathews.  He is a new recruit.  I have no more paper, so I will finish on this.  Yesterday there was an awful fight - our men have suffered awfully.  Today there has been no firing.  The two armies lie close by one another and seem to be resting.  I expect we will have lively times tomorrow.  I hope Providence will overrule it all for the best.  I have not had any rest to speak of since the day was started with the pontoon train, nor has any of the rest of the boys, but I guess we will stand it if the fight does not last too long.  I like to forward to you the sum of our killed and wounded.  There was seven killed and -?- wounded in our Regiment while laying the bridge.  Our Captain killed and two wounded in our Company.  The two that are wounded will recover, I think.

From your son.  S.H.M.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, January 1878 (Continued)

 Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, January 19, 1878

Marriages

LEDSON - MURPHY:  At Norwich, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], January 14th, by W.R. Gunn, Esq., William Ledson and Maggie Murphy of Norwich.

NEWTON - BROOKS:  At the parsonage East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 15th, by Rev. Jos. Clemments, Devain Newton to Miss Lucy L. Brooks.

ROACH - NORMILE:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], January 14th by Rev. Father Harrigan, Daniel Roach and Miss Maggie Normile, all of Norwich.

JONES - BENEDICT:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], on the 17th of January 1878 by Rev. G. Parsons, Mr. Warren Jones and Miss Nellie M. Benedict, Both of Plymouth.

TERILL - JONES:  Coventry, Chenango Co. NY:  A very pleasant wedding occurred at the residence of C.L. Jones, on the 2d inst.  The daughter of the house, Miss Mildred Jones was married to Lewis Terrill of Centreville [Alleghany Co. NY], by Rev. Mr. Sawtell of Nineveh.  After the usual festivities the young couple took the cars enroute for Limestone, Alleghany Co. NY. where they propose to make their abode.  It is needless to say the happy pair take with them the best wishes of a host of friends.

PEASE - LEET:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], January 15, 1878, by Rev. G.R. Foster, Mr. Geo. W. Pease and Miss Viola L. Leet, all of Smyrna.

On the 15th inst. a very pleasant gathering was enjoyed by nearly forty who were the guests of Mr. and Mrs. George Leet of West Smyrna.  The occasion being the marriage of their daughter, Miss Viola L. Leet to Mr. Geo. W. Pease.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. G.R. Foster.  After the congratulations and the presentation of presents the company were invited to a seat at the tables where a sumptuous repast was spread and to which ample justice was done.  After which pleasant and some very spicy conversation was indulged in. Beautiful hymns, from the Sankey and Bliss collection, were sung and Mr. Mott C. Dixon, of the firm of Dixon Bro's sung a very fine solo to the entertainment of all. The party separated each pronouncing the gathering a very enjoyable one.  The happy couple were accompanied by a number of their friends to the train, on which they left for Binghamton for a brief visit to friends, carrying with them many wishes for long life and happiness.

Deaths

HICKS:  In Guilford Centre, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], John P. Hicks, Company F New York Volunteers, 89th Reg., son of Thomas P. and Lucy M. Hicks, aged 30 years.

WRENCH:  Wm. Wrench who was killed by a dynamite explosion at Baltimore, Md., a few days ago, is supposed to be a brother-in-law of S.R Brooks of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] and Mr. B. is now corresponding with the Chief of Police of Baltimore with a view to establishing proof of the identity of the remains with that of a long-lost brother of his wife.

______________________________

SISSON:  At his home in Norwich, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], January 17, 1878, Humphrey Sisson, aged 66 years.

Mr. Sisson was born in Plymouth, Chenango County, Oct. 22d, 1811.  For about forty-five years has been a resident of this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].  He was converted to God at the age of twenty-two, and for more than forty years has been a most zealous, useful, honored class leader in the Methodist Church.  Mr. Sisson was a Christian man in all the full, high sense in which the word Christian is understood.  Men of all classes who knew him believed in him, trusted him, honored and loved him.  His death is a common loss and a general bereavement.  In his death the family have lost a loving, gentle, exemplary husband and father.  The church has lost a leader and pillar whose place will be extremely difficult to fill.  Society has lost one who though reserved and unobtrusive was among its purest, best and most worthy members.  A star of high magnitude has gone out from the earthly firmament, the world is poorer and the whole community is bereaved.

It was not his to amass wealth and leave it to family, to friends or the world, but he has left to this a richer and better inheritance.  Dying, he leaves behind him a half century of faithful devoted Christian work; a half century of correct unsullied Christian example, a memory which should long endure as a high and powerful inspiration, leading upward to that which is true, worthy and divine.  "The memory of the just is blessed."  "Blessed are the dead which died in the Lord form henceforth, yea saith the Lord the Spirit that they may rest from their labors and their works do follow them."

The funeral services will be held at the Methodist Church this Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock.  The family have they sympathy of the entire Church and Community in this their great bereavement.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, January 17, 1878

Marriages

At the residence of the bride's father, in this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 9th, by Rev. A.B. Dilley, Mr. Albert R. Mead to Mrs. Jennie E. Mead, daughter of Thos. W. Harrington, all of Greene.

In Grand Rapids, Mich. Jan. 6th, Mr. Thomas W. Harrington of this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Anna Murtough, of the former place.

In German [Chenango Co. NY], by Rev. W. Burnside, Mr. C.E. Keough of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Flora E. Nichols of Mcdonough [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 12th, Mrs. Cornelia A. [Morse] widow of the late Drury Morse, aged 67 years.

In Harlem, N.Y., Dec. 31st, Mr. H.W. Ripley aged 82 years, brother of W.C. Ripley of this village [Greene, Chenango  Co. NY]

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, January 19, 1878

Marriages

LOBDELL - WICKS:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], Jan. 12th, 1878, by Rev. Mr. Brown, Mr. Wm. W. Lobdell to Miss Ophelia Wicks, both of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].

HARTWELL - JAYNES:  At the residence of the bride's father, January 16th, 1878, by Rev. G.R. Burnside, Mr. Edward F. Hartwell to Miss Alace A. Jaynes all of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

BRYAN:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], January 17th, 1878, Martha S. [Bryan] wife of the late Chester Bryan, in the 73d year of her age.  The funeral will be held at the residence of her daughter, Mrs. J.M. Gager, Saturday at 12 o'clock; Rev. D. Ballou officiating.

GUSTIN:  At the house of her daughter, Mrs. Wood, in Albany [Albany Co. NY], on the 15th inst., Mrs. Almira Gustin, wife of Jabel Gustin, aged 77 years.  Deceased was formerly a resident of this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY] and her remains were brought here for interment.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, January 17, 1878

Marriages

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

BLINCO - NORTHUP:  At the residence of Mr. J.H. Butler of Tompkins Del. Co. [NY] by Rev. A. Brown, Jan. 10, 1878, Fredrick Blinco of Masonville [Delaware Co. NY], and Miss Mary Northup of Tompkins.