Vital Records, Otsego (1871) & Chenango (1879) Counties, NY

 Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, July 5, 1871

Marriages

At the residence of the bride's father in Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] June 25, by Rev. A. Reynolds, assisted by Rev. A. LeRoy, Burt Ireland of Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Alferrettie L. Root of Oxford.

At the residence of the Esq. June 18th, by Myron Yager, Charles E.  Hathaway to Miss Fannie E. Bresee all of Oneonta [Chenango Co. NY].

In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] June 27, at the home of the bride by Rev. Lyman Wright, Peter Johnston of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Jennie Wilcox.

At the M.E. Parsonage in New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] June 21, by Rev. B.W. Van Schoick, John C. Stenson to Miss Eleanor Marsh, both of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

In Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] June 23, Philomelia [Cornell] wife of Elihu Cornell, aged 60 years.

In this village [Morris, Otsego Co. NY] Wednesday morning, June 28, of consumption, Mr. Ambross Stevenson, brother of Nathaniel Stevenson of this village, aged 51 years and 9 months.  The deceased removed to this village from Dover, Delaware last Spring.  His funeral was attended at the Universalist Church on Friday at 11 o'clock.  Rev. Mr. Perkins of Cooperstown, officiating and his remains were buried by the Masonic Order in Hillington Cemetery.

On Saturday the 3d ult. as Edward Hammond of Centreville [Allegany Co. NY] and Charles MacDowal of Colchester, Delaware Co. [NY] were engaged in plowing on the farm of John Hammond of Centreville, a thunder shower coming up they took refuge under a beach tree - one of their parents having told them that beach trees were never struck by lightning which is a prevailing belief with many. While in this place of fancied security, the tree was struck by lightning and young Hammond instantly killed.  He threw his arms above his head and fell to the earth dead. the young man with him was thrown some six feet against a stone wall and though badly injured will probably recover.   Hammond was 25 years of age and was married last winter. A brother of the deceased stood under a hemlock tree a few rods distant and witnessed the terrible calamity.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, July 12, 1871

Deaths

In Garrattsville [Otsego Co. NY] July 4th of consumption, Arthur C. Herrick aged 37 years and 11 months.

Near South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] June 28, Polly Lewis aged 42 years.  To die is gain - she has gone to join loved ones over the river.

At Otego [Otsego Co. NY\] July 4, of consumption, George Cole aged 52 years.

George S. McClune an employee of J.H.&H. Kiersted, at Cadosia Valley [Delaware Co. NY], was drowned in the tannery while at work, by falling into the vat while he was engaged in raising out leather, on Wednesday afternoon last. At the time he fell in, no one was present, and he remained there until his absence was noticed by the watchman, who on examination, found him in the vat.  He was a young man of steady habits about twenty-five years of age and had been engaged there about three months.  Hancock Times

Butternuts, Otsego Co. NY:  Dr. Matteson died July 1st, of consumption, and was buried July 5th. He leaves a wife and children to mourn his loss.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, July 19, 1871

Marriages

At Zion Church in this village [Morris, Otsego Co. NY], July 13, by Rev. T.H. Collen, Charles O. Payne of South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Cornelia Newell of Morris.

At Oneida Community [Madison Co. NY], June 20, by the Rev. Charles Ball, L. George Hall to Miss Rosell Moore both of Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY].

At Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] July 5, by Rev. O.T. Moulton, Alvah R. Mead to Miss Orcelia Swarthout both of Milford [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

Near South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] June 28, Polly Lewis wife of Nelson Lewis, aged 42 years.  To die is gain - she has gone to join the loved ones o'er the river.

In Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY] June 27, Lydia [Harrington] wife of Eber Harrington, in the 68th year of her age.

In Milford [Otsego Co. NY] June 23 of consumption, George W. Sayre aged 59 years.

Near Colliersville [Otsego Co. NY], July 1, Mrs. William Frisbie aged about 50 years. [Abigail Knapp Frisbie]

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] July 7, of cancer, Mrs. Eleanor Ann Loomis wife of Daniel O. Loomis, aged 50 years.

In Rockdale [Chenango Co. NY] July 3, Harriet Spencer aged 65 years 8 months and 3 days.

In Rockdale [Chenango Co. nY] July 6, Seth Crowell aged 80 years.

Lewis Nash who has for the last sixteen years been a resident of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] died on the 5th inst., at the age of 71.  Mr. N. was born in Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] and from there moved to Cooperstown, thence to Forrestville, Chautauqua County [NY]\ where he lived until he removed to Norwich.  During his residence here he has been in feeble health and unable to take an active part in public matters, but as a private citizen he has always faithfully performed the duties devolving upon him.  Chenango Union.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, April 5, 1879

Death

LOWE:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY] March 28, 1879, Mr. Robert Lowe aged 66 years.

In full assurance of a glorious immortality Robert Lowe fell asleep in Jesus.  He was a person of inestimable worth, a good citizen, a kind and loving husband, an indulgent father and a true Christian. As a husband his memory will be cherished long and tenderly by his children who saw his faithfulness to their dear departed mother during the journey they pursued hand in hand together.  He stood nobly and bravely by her through her last conflict.  His ever wakeful and unswerved love cheered her amidst the ravages of disease and the pangs of dissolution.  For twenty-three years the writer has been acquainted with him.  He has seen him in secular and religious prosperity, and when wading through scenes of affliction, in prosperity and in adversity he proved himself a true man.  Nineteen years ago, God laid his afflicting hand upon him and his family, took away from him his first-born son, a young man of respectability just stepping out upon the stage of action.  In a few years an only daughter was called to tread the verge of Jordan.  In a short time, death comes again into his family and takes a mother who declares in her dying moments that Robert never gave her an unpleasant word.  a little over one year ago the Lord visited him once more by death; took away his wife who had toiled on with him for years. She with her dying breath exclaimed, " Robert you have been a kind husband to me."  For some time previous to his death, he seemed to be mindful of his departure from this world.  I saw him last summer.  He then said that he had but a little while to stay.  For the last two weeks of his life, I was with him day and night.  The first day, I saw him after he was confined to his bed (I use his own language now).  He said, "I am a poor sinner ,but I am trusting in the Saviour."  His prayer partook of the nature and spirit of the man that went down to his house justified for asking God to be merciful to him, a sinner.  His whole soul seemed to rest in Christ and his blood to save. When one was asked to pray for him, he said, "Pray for me that my faith fail not in my last hours.  Oh I hope God will give me dying grace."  When one went to his bedside he said, "I am still living. God is very merciful to me."  To his pastor one day he said, "I am almost home I hope," and then added, "God's will be done."  To one of his family, he said, "Bury me in the suit of clothes you think best.  It was said of my Saviour, the birds of the air have nests, and the foxes have holes, but the Son of Man hath not where to lay his head.  The servant is not above his Lord seems to be the spirit that filled his soul.  How often he said when helped, "There, that is all right, I shall soon be through."  When suffering great pain he said "Jesus can made a dying bed feel soft as downy pillows are.  May I lean my head upon his bosom and breathe my life out sweetly there. A few more pains and my weary soul will be at rest."  When once the writer gave him water, he said he wished to thirst for the river of life as he did for the water of this world. To some of his children he said, "Never be ashamed of Jesus."  To others: "Look to Jesus and not to the faults of others."  In his death the town has lost a good citizen, the church on East Hill one of its best members and the society in which he moved a true friend.   W.E. Lewis

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY (1822)

 Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, January 1, 1822

Elopement

Whereas my wife Susanna [Wood] has eloped from my bed and board, this is to forbid all persons harboring or trusting her on my account, as I will pay no debt of her contracting after this date.  Thomas B. Wood, Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY] Dec. 17, 1821

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, January 8, 1822

Marriage

In Richfield [Otsego Co. NY] by the Rev'd D. Putnam, Mr. James Hyde Jun. merchant to Miss Frances Beardsley daughter of O. Beardsley, Esq.

Death

In this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on Saturday last, Mr. Hugh Mitchell aged one hundred and one years and nine months.

The deceased was a native of Carrickfergus in Ireland and emigrated to this country about the year 1764 with the little Irish colony who came out with the Rev. Mr. Dunlap, who were the first settlers of this town.  At the time of the Indian massacre in this place in Nov. 1778, Mr. Mitchell was compelled to witness a scene the recital of which excites all our sympathies.  A party of savages burst into his house and in a most barbarous and shocking manner murdered his wife and four children and after setting fire to the house, carried off his then only remaining child* into captivity.  He himself only escaped death or captivity by running up a ravine near his house, in which the bushes were so thick that he was enabled to elude his pursuers.

After the enemy withdrew from the place, he was compelled alone to put the bodies of his wife and children upon a sled and to draw them a mile to the fort for interment.

The next year, while here to see to his property, he was walking through the woods unarmed, an Indian with a drawn knife chased him a great distance, but he was enabled by his swift running to escape from him.

He endured all these afflictions with Christian fortitude and has through life preserved a fair and unblemished reputation.

He had long been a professor of the Christian religion and gave good evidence by his purity of life that his profession was sincere.  As long as his health would permit him, he was always found on the sabbath in the house of God.  He now sleeps with his fathers and let us all be in readiness to follow him.

*This child was recovered from captivity and survives him, as does his second wife and several children of the second marriage.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, January 15, 1822

Marriage

In this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY], on Sunday evening 29th ult. by the rev. Mr. Putnam, Capt. Pacifer G. Dutcher to Miss Johannah Frink daughter of Mr Stephen Frink.

When friends like these unite to mingle cares, / May wealth and love and prosperous days be theirs.

Deaths

In this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on Saturday last, Mr. James Farqueharson, Jun.  aged 29 years.

At Greenwich, Washington County [NY] on the twenty-second of December last, Mr. David Sprague, who had nearly completed his ninetieth year.  He was the father of twenty-one children, 10 by a first and 11 by a second wife - 8 sons and 13 daughters; all of whom married and were all, at one time, the living heads of 21 families.  In September last, 420 of his descendants were enumerated.  When alive, his families showed five generations on the earth at the same time.  Mr. Sprague had never used spirits and very little tea or coffee and was always a great enemy to tobacco.  His death was sudden - when at dinner and apparently about half through, he rose quickly from the table and soon settled into a chair, when placing his hands and feet in an easy posture, he instantly, without a struggle, ceased to breathe.  In early life, Mr. S. embraced the Baptist persuasion and adhered to the same through life.  He was a native of Rhode Island.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, January 22, 1822

Deaths

In this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on Thursday last, Harriet Newell Truair daughter of the Rev. John Truair, aged 6 years 4 months and seventeen days.

Same day, Caroline [Goss] daughter of Mr. William Goss, aged 15 months.

"Yes, thou stern death! art, after all, the best / And truest teacher, an unflattering one, / And yet we shun thee like some baneful pest / In youth we fancy life is but begun.

Then active middle age comes hurrying on, / And leaves us less of leisure; and, alas! / Even in age, when slowly, surely run / The few last sands which linger in the glass, / We mourn how few remain, how rapidly they pass."

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, January 29, 1822

Death

The following lines were occasioned by the death of Harriet Newell Truair daughter of the Rev. John Truair of Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY] who died the 17th inst. aged 6 years and 4 months and 17 days.

The writer persuades himself that there are but very few pious minds who will doubt the salvation of children who die at the age of the deceased, and in addition to these impressions, his own mind was farther satisfied by his frequent visits to the deceased (in the absence of her father at New York) during her protracted sickness, who in answer to his frequent enquiries whether she did not wish to recover her health and remain with her parents, invariably replied "No I am not afraid of the grave" - 'I wish to go to heaven." Who will you see Harriet when you get to heaven? "I shall see Angels" - and sometimes replied, "I shall be an Angel."

The stoical Christian will probably complain that the writer of these few lines has indulged his imagination improperly - while the tender and ingenious Christian will regret, because he has not taken a much more rapid and expanded flight.

Come gentle muse with golden Lyre, / (An Angel's bliss who lov'st to sing,) / Tune thy soft harp - brace all its cords; / And gently touch each melting string.

"Sing how dear Harriet fled from earth, / And upward borne on Cherub's wings; / The pearly gates of Heaven has pass'd / With Angels - She an Angel sings.

But stop my muse - suspend thy lyre; / My Harriet sweeter notes can bring; / Her harp by Angel's hands was made; / She softly strikes each golden string.

I heard her notes, and sweet they were; / To me how sweet an Angel's voice! / I heard her play, and chant, and sing, / And in her heavenly themes rejoice.

But list her voice! to earth it comes; / (Angelic accents softly fall) / Weep not for me my parents dear, / My Christian friends, my kindred all.

Weep not that I your world have left, / Your pond'rous earth - your isles, your sea; / If loss to you my early 'scape, / Your early loss, is gain to me.

Your tender hands have gently laid, / Your much lov'd Harriet's mortal dust, / within the gaping tomb - to wait / The resurrection of the just.

There let it lay and softly sleep. / (The sleep of death, how short 'twill be) / Till Gabriel's mighty Trump shall sound, / Give up your dead - ye earth - ye sea.

In Regions of eternal bliss, / Then shall I shine, than stars more bright; / Fill'd with immortal joys within, / Clad with immortal robes of light.

But list ye what my present state, / While here I wait that glorious day, / No Angel's tongue my joys can tell, / No Cherub's voice my bliss can lay.

But let my voice once more be heard, / From heaven it sounds - obey its call; / Stay not on earth my Parents dear, / My Christian friends - My kindred all.

My hand is waiting yours to touch, / (How soft that touch will seem to me;) / It's stretch'd to meet you as you come, / And Angels too - you, then shall be.

Those flow'ry meads we hear will read, / Breathe their perfumes and drink their dew; / And prostrate round the throne of God, / Our hallelujahs here renew.

Our hallelujahs here renew, / While twice ten thousand ages die. / Around the starry throne of God, / We still will hallelujah sing."

The nature of the existence of separate spirits in the heavenly world, waiting for the resurrection of the body, will ever remain an impenetrable secret of Christians while they continue in this world.  our Harriet, though now herself a separate spirit in the heavenly world, declines to give any farther elucidation, than is contained in these two lines above.

"No Angel's tongue my joys can tell / No Cherub's voice my bliss can lay."

___________________

At Canajoharie in the county of Montgomery [NY] on the 15th inst. Nathaniel Conkling, Esq aged 26.

He has left a legacy, rich in its inheritance, and pious in its example - a spotless and enviable reputation that impress which gives this human dross its currency, without which birth has no distinction, station no dignity, age no reverence, nor life a charm.

In the legal profession, which he had but recently completed, his endowments had already afforded an earnest of eminence and usefulness the goal of his ardent aspirations, and amid the rank and genius of his colleagues, a junior in years, he was a senior to many in intellect and promise.  But disease came, its ravages paralyzed all surgical skill and by an all-wise decree, the voyage of this life without any earthly haven in prospect, was closed in harmonious response to the strain of holy resignation.

"Tis but the voice that Jesus sends."

Man is but a pledge in the hand of destiny!  The lien is precarious!  Neither talents, nor virtue, nor youth, can prolong the redemption of life!  God who overlooks not the sleeping tenant of the grave and from whose omniscient eye its sod can never obliterate the remembrance of man, claims the breath of existence as his gift.

Long will the sigh of sorrow be wafted to the place of his sepulcher, and that of anguish bow at his youthful fate.  But to his reflect, relatives and friends there gleams a ray of consolatory light.  There is a solace in solitude.  He died with the Christian's composure and commended his immortal spirit to the care of that great Being, who reigns where other stars glitter on the mantle of night and a more effulgent sun, lights up the blushes of the morning.

"Sic transit youth's aspiring sigh / that fondly dwells on days to come; / Soon the vain wish that sears on high, / Is hush'd to silence in the tomb."

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1879)

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, April 16, 1879

Marriage

WOOSTER - BEARDSLEY:  In Delhi [Delaware Co. NY] April 2d by Rev. F.A.M. Brown, Mr. Moses E. Wooster Jr. of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Alice E. Beardsley of Delhi.

Deaths

HUBBARD:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] April 4th, Mr. Jehial C. Hubbard aged 65 years.

ALCOTT:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] April 3d, Lydia L. [Alcott] wife of Amon Alcott, aged 75 years.

STANBRO:  In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY] April 3d, James Stanbro, M.D. aged 51 years.

_______________________

In Memoriam

The following appeared in the Chenango Telegraph of April 5th, and by request is here republished:

The hour of Sunday School at the Congregational Church last Sabbath bore a deeper and holier significance to those assembled in as usual.  It was occupied with most sad and touching exercises in commemoration of a former member, Charles A. Watson, who was lost by the overturning of a sailboat near the coast of Florida, March 19.  His early youth was spent in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], during which he was a regular attendant upon the Academy and Sunday School.  the members of the class to which he belonged have become widely scattered; one other has died; two links of the golden chain which bound the class together are now broken; two are in Kansas, one in this county, one in New Jersey and only two left.

Superintendent Dr. J.W. Thorp began with reference to this class as a remarkable one in many respects besides their early and distant separation.  He then made some allusions to the boyhood of our friend as affording an example and a model for the young, marking the great importance of childhood's lessons as preparing one for the more serious duties of manhood.  A comparison, drawn from the profusion of bright flowers gracing the platform, indicated the luster of a character in itself radiant.  These emblems of purity were partly the offering of the young men's Bible class.  It was delicately thoughtful on the part of the Lockport Mission School, for whose former superintendent these sad memories wore, to send a basket of flowers as a tender tribute to one so highly prized by them and of so great account through many years of religious intercourse and instruction.  But now the hand which clasped theirs at the last parting is still forever. The voice which then so gayly spoke farewell is hushed. The features which eight long years of companionship had made dear, will soon be hidden away.  Extracts were read from several papers published in Lockport, where Mr. Watson had passed the last eight years in the hardware business.  These articles, besides a brief sketch, spoke with no uncertain sound of a business and social record marred by no blot. During these exercises a solemn stillness filled the church, and no words could be so impressive as the silent tributes which all knew were coming from every heart.  We commit the dear departed to that grateful silence, recalling Lowell['s beautiful lines of consolation:

"Somewhere is comfort; somewhere faith; / They yet in outer dark remain, / One sad, sweet voice enobles death, / And still for eighteen centuries saith- / Softly! Ye meet again."

To those of us who were associated with Charles Watson during his boyhood and have followed him from academy to college and through the brief business career allotted him, the retrospect affords naught save such manifestations of principle and conduct as it is fitting to recognize to honor and to love.  Faithful to every academic duty, steering safely between the Scylla and Charybdis of college life, and afterwards most diligent in business, his was a course where every talent seemed consecrated to the attainments of his own highest idea, his life lived uniformly with reference to a sense of religious obligation. With a frank, unpretentious nature and mind unusually clear and logical he possessed cultured tastes and courteous manners.  In the intervals of business, it was his delight to read and study standard works.  Much time too had been given to travel at home and abroad and his life was finally sacrificed to the charm he found in this pursuit.

Reviewing such precious memories and mourning with a bereaved father and mother, still, remembering that blessed hope which enabled him to meet death with a fortitude of a philosopher and the resignation of a Christian, we place the name of Charles A. Watson among our hallowed dead.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 3, 1879

Deaths

In Coventryville [Chenango Co. NY], March 26th, Mr. Joel Parker aged 69 years.

In Afton [Chenango Co. NY] March 18th, Mr. Henry A. Beatman, aged 26 years.

In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] March 23d, son of A.B. Milner, aged 3 years.

In Birley, Kansas, March 18th, at the residence of William Morris, of pneumonia, Mrs. William Birley, formerly of this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], aged 66 years.

Also, at the same place, March 18th, of the same disease, Miss Ida May [Morris] daughter of William Morris, aged 16 years, 9 months, formerly of this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].

Chenango Forks, Broome Co. NY:  While writing I have been informed of the sudden death of Thurston Kenyon which occurred this (Saturday) morning at his son's, Jonathan Kenyon.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, April 17, 1879

Marriage

Bennettsville, Chenango Co. NY:  Mr. Herbert Matteson of this place and Miss Ida Beardslee of Franklin [Delaware Co. NY] intend committing matrimony ont hge 16 inst.  May joy an dhappiness attend them through life. amen.

Deaths

Rev. Lyman Wright, D.D. well known to many of our readers, died at his residence in Binghamton, N.Y. [Broome Co.] on Wednesday, the 2d inst. aged 62-1/2 years.  He was born and brought up in Westford [Otsego Co. NY].  His first pastorate was at Schuyler's lake when he was 22 years of age, at which place he said he "commenced scrambling up the hill."  The last three churches he served were Trenton, Newburgh and Binghamton.

On Wednesday morning the death of Mrs. Walter Elliott, Jr. near Andes [Delaware Co. NY] was announced. She had been subject to aberration of mind for some time and recently declined to partake of food. For twenty-one days, up to Wednesday morning, she refused to take any nourishment except cold water, in spite of the efforts of her friends to induce her to do so and thus died from actual starvation. The deceased leaves a large circle of friends and relatives - Recorder

News Item

Mrs. Charles Parsons of Sidney Plains, Delaware Co. NY

Among the aged residents of our community we would mention the name of Mrs. Charles Parsons [Emeline Miller] daughter of William and Esther Miller, who was born at Glastonburg, Connecticut, June 22nd, 1799.  Her father was a farmer and man of property, and who gave his children good advantages.  She was married in April 1823, and commenced housekeeping at Endfield near Hartford, Conn.  Her husband was a mechanic (Blacksmith) and a soldier in the war of 1812.  After their marriage they resided at Endfield till the year of 1839 when they moved to Yaleville, Chenango Co., N.Y., where her husband worked at his trade until about 1852, when he purchased a farm in East Bainbridge, near the junction of the Unadilla River.  Here he carried on blacksmithing and farming for nearly 13 years, when he sold out and moved to Sidney Plains, where he died July 24th, 1865.  

They had 8 children, 5 of whom are now living.  Mrs. Parsons, since the death of her husband, has lived with her children, 8 of whom were married and lived in the place. She now makes it her home with her son James, who is also a blacksmith by trade and is now carrying on that business.  

Mrs. Parsons belonged to a family of eight children, only three of whom are now living.  Her brother Mathew Miller moved to East Guilford in the year of 1821 and purchased the John Mersereau farm and still resides upon it [in 1879].  Her sister, Fannie, widow of the late Rev. Octavus Fitch, is living with a niece in Sidney Plains. Their father died in Connecticut, in the year 1814.  Their mother died at East Guilford in 1847.  

Mrs. Parsons has long been connected with the Congregational Church and is regarded as a devoted Christian and as one who strives to do right. She, at the present time, is in feeble health, but hopes when springtime has fully come and flowers bloom that she too will feel the invigorating influence of a genial atmosphere and will again be able to take her accustomed seat in the sanctuary where she enjoys the society and friendship of her Christian friends and neighbors.

Death Notice:  At Unadilla Centre [Otsego Co. NY] last Thursday, Mrs. Emeline Parsons aged 92 years.  she was buried in Prospect Hill Cemetery, Sidney [Delaware Co. NY], Sunday afternoon. [Sidney Record, Sidney, NY, Dec. 4, 1870]

Vital Records, Madison (1818) & Otsego (1859, 1879) Counties, NY

 The Pilot, Cazenovia, NY, September 9, 1818

Death

In Nelson [Madison Co. NY] on the 10th of August last, Mrs. Sarah Lord wife of Deacon John Lord, aged 75 years, after a long and painful illness, borne with patience and resignation to the will of her divine Lord and Master.

Mrs. Lord had been a public professor of religion from young life, united herself to the Congregational Church of Lyme (Conn.) of which the Rev. Mr. Minor was pastor in the 23d year of her age.  From the time of her espousal, she maintained unshaken faith in the distinguishing doctrines of grace and great confidence in the perfect government of God and a uniform humble walk with God.

The ignorant found her an able teacher and skillful guide.  The poor found her heart always open for their relief and of her benevolence, many were partakers.  The Bible was her study.  With it she had been so long conversant that every part was remarkably familiar.  She had read the sacred volume in course thirty-five times. She embraced Christians of all denominations as her beloved brethren and sisters and her faith and confidence in the Abrahamic covenant was remarkably strong, even to her dying day. A few days before her death, she appeared to take hold of the covenant by faith, for her posterity, down to the latest generation.  Her death was such as might have been expected. She died as she lived. Death had no terror, the sting was taken away. She waited with patience and resignation for the desired happy moment when she might go hence, be near, and like her God.

All hail, the mandate from on high, / That bids the righteous rise, / Triumphant on archangel's wings, / To dwell above the skies.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, October 5, 1859

Marriages

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] Sept. 22d(?) at the Hotel of John H. Watkins, by Rev. William Baldwin, Mr. Edger Mudge to Miss Susan M. Booth both of Franklin [Delaware Co. NY].

In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 30th(?) by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Hiram L. Gridley to Miss Mary E. Bentley both of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY].

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, October 12, 1859

Marriages

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] at the residence of the bride's father on the 9th inst. by Rev. J. Smith, Jr., Mr. R.L. Ford to Miss Etta Hopkins, both of this place.

Accompanying the above notice, we received proofs that the printer was remembered by the happy pair.  May peace and prosperity be their happy fate in this life and everlasting bliss in the life to come.

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] on the 7th inst. by the Rev. J. Smith Jr., Mr. Francis F. Babcock to Miss Cornelia B. Peet both of Oneonta.

In Franklin [Delaware Co. NY] Oct. 8th, at the house of the bride's father by Rev. E.C. Hodge, Mr. William W. Hern(?) to Miss Mary Alger both of Franklin, Del. Co.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, October 26, 1859

Marriages

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] Oct. 10th, by Rev. E.C. Hodge, Mr. -?- R. Watkins to Miss Susan E Bowen both of Oneonta.

Deaths

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] on the 11th inst. Mrs. Sally Rich in the 22d year of her age.

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY] on the 11th inst. at the residence of her -?-, Mrs. Maria Stafford wife of Keseph -?- aged 73 years.

In Charlotteville, Schoharie County [NY] on the 18th inst., Mr. James H. Van Buren in the 24th year of his age.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, June 12, 1879

Marriages

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. Mr. Hiller, Sunday evening, June 1st, Garrison P. Smith to Mrs. L. Davis Gibson all of this village.

At the home of the bride's parents, in this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co., NY], May 28th, by Rev. Dr. Lord, Edson Benton of North Hamilton, N.Y. [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Hattie E. King of this village.

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] May 29th, by Rev. A.B. Richardson of Oneonta, Frederick W. Hopkins of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] and Phebe L. Coy of Bainbridge.

In the Baptist Church at Springfield Center [Otsego co. NY] June 1, by Rev. L. Casier, Rev. D.D. Odell graduate of Madison University, and Miss Mary Ely of Warren [Herkimer Co. NY].

At the residence of the bride's father at Ellicottville, Chautauqua Co. [NY] May 29th, by Rev. M.B. Benton, John J. McVean of Iona, Michigan and Rachel K. [Shankland]

Deaths

In this town [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] June 5th, Ellen B. [Grover] wife of Henry B. Grover, in the 26th year of her age.

In Worcester [Otsego Co. NY] May 31st, Rose [Bunker] wife of Charles Bunker and only daughter of Fitch Waters.

In Maryland [Otsego Co. NY] June 2d Margaret [Beers] wife of Dexter Beers aged 55 years and 11 months.

In Richfield Springs [Otsego Co. NY] on the 3d inst. John Fish in the 89th year of his age.

Vital Records, Madison (1866) & Otsego (1879) Counties, NY

 Oneida Dispatch, Oneida, NY, November 10, 1866

Marriages

WYMAN - GILBERT:  At Bacon's Hotel, Oneida [Madison Co. NY] by Rev. D. McFarland, Mr. William Wyman to Miss Josephine Gilbert both of Stockbridge [Madison Co. NY]. 

BOLTON - BRAMAN:  In Oneida [Madison Co. NY] Oc.t 28, by the same, Mr. C.J. Bolton to Miss Mary J. Braman both of Verona [Oneida Co. NY].

WRIGHT - MANCHESTER:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] Oct. 30 by Rev. W.A. Smith, Mr. Robert Wright of Vienna, Fairfax Co., Va. to Miss Mary Manchester of the former place.

LASELLE - KETCHAM:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY] Oct. 22, by Rev. L.V. Ismond, Mr. Aylmer Laselle of North Plains, Mich. to Mrs. Roxana Ketcham of Earlville.

HORTON - CHAPMAN; In Earlville [Madison Co. NY] Oct. 18, by Rev. R.D. Pierce, Harvey L. Horton of Stockbridge [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Clara Chapman of Earlville.

BORDWELL - GEER:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 22, by Rev. W. E. Colhrane(?) Mr. Charles Bordwell of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Nettie Geer of Smyrna.

STONE - GREGORY:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 12, by Rev. M.G. Wadsworth, Jared E. Stone of Columbus [Chenango Co. NY] to Cynthia P. Gregory of Brookfield, [Madison Co. NY].

HINCKLEY - BISELL:  In North Brookfield [Madison Co. NY], Oct. 31, by Rev. N.C. Moleay, Mr. Charles H. Hinckley of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Elizabeth Bissell of North Brookfield.

WRIGHT - SHARP:  In West Eaton [Madison Co. NY] Nov. 4, Rev. J. W. Mitchell, Mr. Abel T. Wright of Clayville, Oneida, County [NY] to Miss Mary F. Sharp of West Eaton.

Deaths

PARKHILL:  In Clockville [Madison Co. NY], Oct. 21, Anna [Parkhill] only daughter of Eli T. and Susan A. Parkhill, aged 1 month and 12 days.

CURTIS:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], Sept. 14, Mehitable Curtis.

GRAVES: In Nelson [Madison Co. NY], Nov. 4, of consumption, Nathan Graves in the 88th year of his age.

STRONG:  Hon. Alvin Strong of Stockbridge [Madison Co. NY], died very suddenly last Monday night in a fit.  He was well known throughout Madison County.  He was a fine and upright citizen, a man of integrity and worth.  Two years ago, he represented this district in the State Legislature.  He has left a wide circle of friends and relatives to mourn his loss.

Oneonta Herald & Democrat, Oneonta, NY, May 16, 1879

Marriages

In Richfield [Otsego Co. NY] May 7, by Rev. M.G. Wadsworth, George Tefft of Bridgewater [Oneida Co. NY] and Eliza J. Snedeker.

In Franklin [Delaware Co. NY] April 28, by Rev. T.J. Whitaker, William H. Barnes and Mrs. E.C. Jacobs formerly of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY].

In Fergusonville [Delaware Co. NY], May 7th, by Rev. T. Elliott, Elbert A. Tabor of East Davenport [Delaware Co. NY] and Susie J. Lockwood of Fergusonville.

In Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY] May 4, Hiram Brower of Utica [Oneida Co. NY] and Miss Ada [Sherwood] formerly of this village [Oneonta, Otsego Co. NY]./

Deaths

In Chaseville [Otsego Co. NY], May 7th, Mrs. Susan Palmer relict of the late Stephen Palmer in the 64th year of her age.

In Afton [Chenango Co. NY] May 4th, Julia M. [Smith] wife of Samuel Smith, aged 50 years.

At his home i Sheridan, Chautauqua Co. [NY] April 26, Thomas M. McLaury aged 68 years.  Deceased was formerly a resident of Delaware Co. [NY].

In Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] May 11, Amy Cleveland [Moak] wife of Jacob M. Moak and mother of Hon. N.C. Moak, formerly of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] aged 67 years.

In Clintonville [Clinton Co. NY], May 8, Willis C. Matthewson aged 22 years.

In Fly Creek [Otsego Co. NY] May 10, Edward T. [Thompson] son of Lee Thompson, aged 17 years.

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY] Mayh 12, Marion Jennings [Birdsall] wife of William Birdsall in the 27th year of her age.

At Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY] suddenly, S.R. Ballard.

In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] May 8, Levi Beardsley aged 56 years.

In Sidney [Delaware Co. NY] May 13, Hattie Bartlett, aged 19 years 5 months and 25 days.

At South Valley [Cattarrgus Co. NY], May 4th, George Sullivan

May 2nd John Snyder aged 82 years.

In Franklin [Delaware Co. NY] May 9th, Rev. W.H. Beardsley aged 31 years.

The postmortem examination upon the body of Miss Cramer resulted in the decision that she died of congestion of the lungs.  Drs. Hills and Leonard of Cooperstown were sworn and thus testified.  Local physicians corroborated their testimony.  

A Miss Stevens of Walton [Delaware Co. NY] died on Thursday, May 1st of toothache.  An attempt was made to extract the troublesome member, but her teeth were broken off and her face was too sore to permit their removal by the painful process of cutting away the guns.  The girl suffered an entire nervous prostration from the extreme pain and gradually sunk away under it until death ended her sufferings. 

Hartwick, Otsego Co. NY:  The funeral services of Dr. M.E. Jenks took place at his late residence in this village Tuesday, May 6th.  the services were conducted by Rev. Mr. Peck of Cooperstown.  The burial service, which was solemn and impressive was conducted by a large delegation of the brotherhood of Free Masons, Otsego lodge (of which the deceased was a worthy member) having charge of the ceremony, which was managed very gracefully and in a manner showing great respect and sympathy for the deceased brother and his bereaved family.  Mr. Jenks learned the dental art of Dr. Siver, at Cooperstown, and came here and opened an office but a few years since.  He was faithful in the prosecution of his business, pleasant and attractive in manner and during his stay among us had won many warm friends and in his death the community sustains a loss not easily repaired.  he leaves a wife and a large circle of relatives who feel the sad stroke most keenly.

Hartwick, Otsego Co. NY:  A fatal accident occurred near Christian Hill a few days since.  A son of Lee Thompson while drawing hop poles, was thrown from the wagon by a runaway team, breaking his back and producing death in a few days.

Hartwick, Otsego Co. NY:  Fay Doan of this village, died very suddenly last Saturday of liver complaint.

Franklin, Delaware Co. NY:  Rev. W.H. Beardsley, a talented young clergyman of the Episcopal church, died very suddenly at the residence of his uncle, H.S. Edwards, in this town last Friday evening at 11 p.m.  Mr. Beardsley had been ill for some time but preached the Sabbath before and the day that he died was able to be out of the house.  he was found unconscious at 5 p.m. and remained so until his death.  The funeral services were largely attended at St. Paul's church, Tuesday afternoon, Rev. O. Applegate, of Newburg, officiating.

Franklin, Delaware Co. NY:  Mrs. Sewell, a daughter of Capt. Harry Buell, of this village, died in Walton [Delaware Co. NY] on Tuesday evening.

Otsdawa, Otsego Co. NY:  Dudley Emerson died last Thursday.  The funeral services were held at his place on Saturday of last week.  he leaves a wife and three children.

Vital Records, Chenango (1840) & Otsego (1866) Counties, NY

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, February 5, 1840

Death

 In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on Friday morning last, Harriet Platt [Sanford] daughter of Augustus Sanford, aged two years.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, March 25, 1840

Death

In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on Thursday, the 19th inst. of scarlet fever and canker rash, Girard [Smith] the son and only child or James H. Smith, Under Sheriff of this county, aged 8 years and 6 months.

There was an early determination of the disease to the head which deprived him of reason, except at short intervals, after throwing him into a state of frantic wildness.  This rendered his sickness much of the time, heart-rending and agonizing.  Of a sudden, nature sunk, the storm subsided, and he fell quickly into the peaceful slumbers of death, greatly to the relief of his agonizing parents and attendants.  His funeral sermon was preached by Rev. A. Wheelock, Pastor of the Baptist Church in this village from Isa. 52, 7, "Thy God reigneth."  The speaker endeavored to illustrate the doctrine of the wisdom and goodness of God in the dispensation of the darkest and most mysterious Providences.  Thus has died among us another as lovely a child, probably as ever lived.  Girard was comely in his person, possessing one of the sweetest dispositions and in his manners was uncommonly graceful and attractive.  He loved the sanctuary and was always cheerful and glad to accompany his pious parents to the house of God for their sabbath devotions.  A smile of gladness was often seen lit up upon the countenances of the father and mother as they marked the sprightliness of their boy and observed the modesty and gracefulness of his manner in entering the church  He was one of the idols of the sabbath school, full of animation, imparting life and spirit to his class and to the public examinations which are conducted by the Pastor during the sabbath intermissions.  What he was in the sabbath school room, he was also in the domestic circle, constituting a kind of central attraction to all the family and giving a zest to all their enjoyments, especially during the more leisure hours during their winter evenings, when they reckoned upon being [-?-]by Girard and his books.  He vigorously avoided the company of wicked persons and was so shocked at the profanity he occasionally heard in the streets, that he could not be persuaded to repeat the oaths he had heard.  He manifested a deep interest in pious persons and in religious devotions. [rest unreadable]

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, April 8, 1840

Death

William Pike Andrews son of Dorr B. and Lovina Andrews, in this village (Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], departed this life on the 7th instant, of that painful disease Scarlet Fever, after a sickness of five days, aged 1 year, 7 months and 17 days.  Too pure for earth, he has left us for Heaven.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, April 15, 1840

Marriage

In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] on Wednesday evening last, by the Rev. Mr. Backus, Mr. Mathew O. Wells of Preston [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Mary S. Taintor of Colchester, Connecticut.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, April 29, 1840

Marriage

In Oxford, on the 29th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Sperry, Mr. William E. Chapman to Miss Sarah Livingston Lowe all of that place.

Unadilla Times, Unadilla, NY, January 4, 1866

Marriage

At the residence of the bride's father, Dec. 31, 1865, by Rev. S.S. Goodman, Mr. James E. Roe of Franklin, Delaware Co. [NY] to Miss Ella May Kelly of Sidney, Delaware Co. NY.

Death

in this town [Unadilla, Otsego Co. NY] December 29(?), 1865, Samantha [Warriner] wife of Wheeler R. Warriner aged 67 years, 9 moths and 27 days.

Crime in Chenango County, NY - Part 2 - George Dennison

 Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, March 26, 1879

Crime in Chenango County, NY - Part 2

George Dennison

The trial of George Dennison took place January 21, 1833.  the story of the crime briefly told, is as follows:  George Dennison and Reuben Gregory were, in the year 1832, residents of the town of Columbus [Chenango Co. NY] - the latter the son of a respectable tavern keeper on the road from New Berlin to Columbus. Dennison was a young man of dissipated habits, but an intimate friend of young Gregory.  On September 30, 1832, the day of the murder, Dennison visited the Inn, and having already drank freely was refused further supplies of liquor by the elder Gregory.  Upon this he indignantly left, threatening vengeance.  The elder Gregory uniformly wore a slouched hat and was in the frequent habit of smoking.  Upon this day, young Gregory had a severe attack of the toothache and after resorting to various remedies without relief had been advised to try tobacco. Towards evening, taking up, filling and lighting a pipe and seizing her father's slouched hat, he passed into a room which opened upon the woodshed on the north of the Inn, sat down in a chair, pulled his hat over his eyes and began to smoke. Dennison in the meantime had gone home, loaded his gun with a charge of shot and started out "to pepper old Gregory's legs," as he asserted. Stealing along in the deepening twilight to the Inn, and seeing through the window, as he supposed, the elder Gregory, seated in his accustomed seat and smoking, he deliberately aimed and fired. The charge of shot entered the heart of the unfortunate son. The next morning Dennison was arrested.  He was horrified at finding that he had shot his most cherished friend, but this did not avail.  He was brought to Norwich and lodged in jail. Gregory was only twenty years of age. At the term of court commencing January 21, 1833, Judge Monell presiding, Dennison was tried.  John Clapp, Esq. was the prosecuting attorney, and Abial Cook, Henry Van Der Lyn and S.S. Randall, Esqs. appeared as counsel for the prisoner. The trial was held in the old Presbyterian Church, which stood on the site of the present Congregational edifice and consumed only two days. The jury was out one and one-half hours, when they brought in a verdict of guilty.  On the 23d of January the prisoner was sentenced. Every effort was made in his behalf, but to no avail. Governor Marcy refused to interfere with the sentence.

March 18, 1833, Dennison was hung.  The place of execution was at the foot of the hill south and west of the Catholic Church and near where the track of the Auburn branch now runs.  such a crowd of people has never been in Norwich, either before or since. They flocked in from every direction till they numbered upwards of 12,000.  At 11:30 A.M. on the day of execution, Dennison robed in white was conveyed by Sheriff Franklin, in a sleigh drawn by two horses and containing his coffin, to the place of execution.  He exhibited great nerve throughout.  On going out of the jail, he noticed that one of the strings to his shoe was untied, and placing his foot upon a chair, he tied it as unconcernedly as though going on a pleasure trip.  He took his seat in the sleigh, beside the coffin, almost cheerfully, and arriving at the gallows, sprang from the sleigh, and unaided, firmly ascended the stairs and took his seat - his feet resting upon the fatal drop.  On his right sat Deputy Sheriff Brown and on his left Deputy Sheriff Perkins, and on an adjoining platform were seated several clergymen.  

What might be called the ceremonies at the scaffold were opened with a prayer by Rev. Mr. Sprague.  The prisoner then read a written address, in which he warned all young men against the use of intoxicating drinks.  Addresses were then made by Elder Swan, Rev. Mr. Bogue and Rev. Mr. Birdsall.  During one of the addresses the prisoner asked Deputy Sheriff Brown for his tobacco box, took a chew, coolly put it into his mouth and with thanks and a smile, handed the box back to its owner. At the conclusion of the addresses, the sheriff adjusted the rope.  As he did so the prisoner remarked : "I have worn a more graceful necktie than this before now."  [He] took leave of him by a shake of the hand and descended to the foot of the gallows, the prisoner standing firmly on the fatal drop.  Rev. Mr. Bogue was then asked to pray, and he did to the length of three quarters of an hour.  As the conclusion of this lengthy appeal, which under the circumstances seemed much longer, the drop fell. Dennison died without a struggle, holding in his hand a handkerchief.  He was only twenty-seven years of age and left a wife and two children.  Some historians say that on the day of execution he shed not a tear; others, among them his counsel S.S. Randall, Esq. assert he wept during Rev. Mr. Bogue's prayer.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 22, 1883

Fifty Years Ago

On the 19th day of March 1833, just fifty years ago, Jefferson Finch, Orrin Howard and Sidney Howard, then of Columbus [Chenango Co. NY] drive into Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to see the execution of George Dennison, for the murder of Reuben Gregory on the night of September 30th, 1832, in the town of Columbus.  Mr. Finch now lives [in 1883] in New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] and is seventy-nine years old, O. Howard and S. Howard, both of South Edmeston, Otsego Co. [NY] the former sixty-eight, the later sixty-five.

The day of the 19th of March 1833 was clear and warm.  The snow melted rapidly.  The military companies formed a long square in front of the jail about 11 o'clock A.M.  The sleigh containing the coffin in the center; the prisoner sat on the coffin, robed in white, and Grant B. Palmer, late of Columbus, owned and drove the team to the gallows.  Amos A. Franklin was Sheriff.  The band played the death march and moved with slow and solemn tread.

Dennison made a speech on the gallows, attributing the trouble to whisky.  Elder Bouge made a long prayer and the fatal drop fell a few minutes past one P.M.  Ten thousand people were supposed to be in Norwich that day, and more than at any other time before in any one day.

This was the first execution in the County.  Cook and Van Der Lyn were attorneys for the prisoner.  Dennison was buried at Columbus Quarter.  No stone or monumental cross tells where his ashes lie.

A half century with her fleeting years has passed away, and scores that were living then have passed away also, but these three men have stood the shock of time, to see a new generation, and note the great change in Norwich, in the County, and in the country at large.

Vital Records, Broome County, NY (1855)

 Union News, Union, NY, September 9, 1858

Deaths

In this village [Union, Broome Co. NY] on the night of the 1st inst. Daniel Hebard son of William Henry and Hannah M. Galior(?), aged 7 months and 7 days.

Lay the turf lightly over his breast, / Calm be his slumbers, peaceful his rest. / Beautiful, lovely, he was but given - / A fair bud to earth, to blossom in heaven 

_______________________

At the house of Charles N. Wheeler in Fulton City, Illinois, on the 31st of Aug. of congestion of the brain, Julia [Fanning], only child of Franklin and Sarah L. Fanning, aged 1 year 7 months and 12 days.

Mr. F. left his home in Iowa with his family, all of them enjoying good health, for the purpose of visiting their relatives and friends in this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] and Waverly, N.Y. [Tioga Co.], and on arriving at Fulton City, their "precious jewel" was taken sick, where in a few days it died.  The corpse was brought to this village and the funeral attended from the house of its grandfather, Mr. Asa Fanning, on Friday last the 3d instant, and a very appropriate and excellent discourse delivered by Rev. Mr.. Bacon, from Mark x:16, "And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them."

The parents of little Julia, brought their blighted bud from the far West where she died, to lay her beside kindred in the Union churchyard where the shadow of the old church almost falls upon her little grave in certain hope that on the morn of the resurrection it will bloom in beauty in the Paradise of God.  It is well so, "well with the child" - 

safe, eternally safe / are in the bosom of her God / Thy darling's sleeping now. / she needs no more a mother's hand / To cool her burning brow. / No pain, her tears all wiped away / She lives with God in endless day.

Union News, Union, NY, September 16, 1858

Marriage

On the evening of the 6th instant at the Parsonage in Union Center [Broome Co. NY] by the Rev. Mr. Gaylord, Leonard F. Bancroft Esq. to Miss Rebecca Brigham.  The youthful pair have the warm congratulations of a numerous circle fo friends.

Union News, Union, NY, September 23, 1858

In Vestal, N.Y. [Broome Co.], at the residence of Epenetus Platt, September 18, 1858, Mrs. Rachel Alloway in the 80th year of her age.

Seldom are we called upon to chronicle the death of one so widely and universally loved as "Grandma Alloway"

For twenty-one years has she been a widow, and for over thirty years a resident among us, smiling at our bridals, weeping at our burials and always radiating the light and purity of a Christian life.  During the last years of her pilgrimage, with no home of her own, she has found a most welcome one in the hearts and by the hearths of a few families who have thereby "entertained an angel unawares." With no means of support save the charity of friends to whom it was a privilege to give, her history is a striking exemplification of the truth that "the righteous shall never be forsaken."

Her path had often led against driving misery and through stormy sorrows, but she always came up from the white heat of the furnace of affliction with spotless garments. the close was peaceful and happy, slowly ripening for the Reaper, Death. She is gathered at last - triumphantly, happily gathered to her God.

At the noon of a Sabbath day, when we of the earth were only looking heavenward, she cast off the mantle of mortality, the shining hands of angels let down the immortal's starry crown and God took her.

What a prospect must she have had that sabbath morning!  Who of us would not be glad to have it insured to us?  Standing upon the shores of two worlds, she might have looked back with sadness over the wearily wept years of earth - over the trials and afflictions, the crosses and perils, and all the evils escaped; but she must have looked forward with joy to the other shore, where the friends of her youth, the angels and her Saviour were gathered, and where the glory won was already in view.

Passing out from under an archway of mingled tears and joy to the gates of pearly whiteness!  Her feet weary and worn with the lifepath should now walk peacefully the Ivory Floors of the Palace Beautiful; her eyes heavy with weeping should close on earth and open upon the green pastures and beside the still waters of the Better Land!

It is not sad to die as Grandma Alloway died.  It is only passing from a low narrow room into a more glorious and spacious temple.  It is only closing dimmed eyes, folding weary hands and hushing a restless heart, for a moment to sleep - then awakening with eternal beauty, vigor and youth in the Golden City!

May her mantle fall upon those who have shown her so much kindness and may they at last be gathered as happily and peacefully home!  M.D.

___________________________

In the town of Owego [Tioga Co. NY] on the 17th instant, Mrs. Polly Brown, aged 82 years.

The subject of this brief notice was born in Boston, Mass., on the 10th of June, in the memorable year of 1776.  With her companion, who died ten years since, she moved into this country in 1818 & during a residence of forty years formed an extensive circle of admiring friends.  The uneasiness and impatience so common to age, seemed to have had no pace in her mental constitution; hence, her society continued to be pleasant and desirable.  She loved her Bible and when by the failure of her sight, she found it difficult to read it herself, a generous and piously inclined grandson, who loved her as he loves his mother, performed the grateful task of reading the precious volume to her.  Until about a week before her death she enjoyed her accustomed health and occupied her place at the family board. But then she began rapidly to decline, and on Friday made, as we believe, the great ascent, and received a joyous welcome to the skies.  She leaves to embalm her name two sons and three daughters, thirty grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren.  Her funeral was attended at the Presbyterian church in Apalachin, by a large assembly on Sunday last, expressive of the high esteem with which our aged friend was regarded by the entire community.  E.W. Breckenridge

Union News, Union, NY, September 30, 1858

Marriage

At the residence of the bride's father in Binghamton [Broom Co. NY] on the 27th inst. by Rev. S.M. Johnson, Mr. J.W. Stratton of Stratton's Falls, NY [Delaware Co.] to Miss Marie E. Minkler of Binghamton.

Deaths

At Colesville, Broome County, N.Y. Sept. 18, 1858, Mr. Harvey Bishop in the 74th year of his age.

In Kalamazoo Mich. at the residence of her son's on the 6th instant, Mrs. Amy Ladd wife of the late Jehiel Slosson of Maine, Broome County, N.Y. in the 70th year of her age.