Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1880)

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, January 28, 1880

Marriages

WEBB - NIGHTINGALE:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] on Jan. 1st, by Rev. Charles Steere, Mr. Charles E. Webb and Miss Mary A. Nightingale.

STUART - BOSWORTH:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 14th, by Rev. A.W. Barrows, Mr. Robert L. Stuart and Miss Ida Bosworth, both of German [Chenango Co. NY].

WOODRUFF - HASTINGS:  In Colesville [Broome Co. NY] Jan. 15th, by Rev. I.P. Towner, Mr. John B. Woodruff of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Ida E. Hastings of Colesville.

KEELER - PORTER:  In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] by Rev. W. Burnside, Mr. Charles J. Keeler and Miss Henrietta F. Fowler, both of Coventry.

Deaths

WESCOTT:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Jan. 18th, Mr. James Wescott aged 69 years.

LYON:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] Jan. 14th, Mrs. Lois Lyon aged 65 years.

BENNETT:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] Jan. 20th, Mr. Hanford Bennett, aged 67 years.

TINKER:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] Jan. 14th, Miss Emily Tinker aged 67 years.

SAYRE:  In Bainbridge Jan. 20th, William S. Sayre, Esq. aged 77 years.

MATTHEWS:  The remains of Mrs. Frances Matthews of Hoboken, N.J., arrived in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] on Saturday morning last and were buried in Sylvan lawn Cemetery during the afternoon of that day, after burial service in Zion Church.  Mrs. Matthews was a former resident of this village and an aunt of Mrs. John R. Juliand.  Mr. Fred Matthews, son of the deceased, and also a former resident of this village, accompanied his mother's remains here, and saw them beneath the sod of her native valley.  Mrs. Matthews died of pneumonia, after a brief illness. she was a pleasant lady, a kind neighbor, and a firm friend.  Her death will be mourned by a large circle of friends in this locality.  Chenango American

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McFARLAND:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Jan. 21st, Mr. Ira B. McFarland aged 90 years.

Ira B. McFarland, an old and well-known citizen of this town, died on Wednesday last at the residence of his son, Charles A. McFarland, at the advanced age of ninety-one years.  He was the father of Drs. S.F. and H.A. McFarland, of this village [Oxford].  Deceased was born at Kinderhook Landing on the Hudson River in 1769 and came to Oxford in 1816 and settled upon a piece of land three miles below this village, which is now the farm of his son, Charles, where he died.  He devoted his early days to lumbering, clearing the forests here and about Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY] and was known as one of the most skillful pilots on the Susquehanna in running rafts of lumber.  Later he turned his attention to farming, which he followed for many years, he having made the old homestead a fine farm amid the then wilderness of forests.  He retained his mental and physical powers in a remarkable degree, and it was a pleasure to listen to his tales of the times and early history of the pioneers of the Chenango Valley. Through his long life he carried a record for integrity and good purposes, taking an active interest in all public affairs that tended for public welfare and was a kind neighbor and friend to the poor and needy.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, March 5, 1880

Deaths

S.D. Maples head brakeman on Conductor Wiles' train on the Erie railroad, was killed by his own train in the Waverly [Tioga Co. NY] yard Tuesday morning.  He was engaged in coupling cars, and it is supposed fell.  The whole train had passed over his body before the accident was discovered. They were taken Tuesday night on Erie railway train No. 12, to Port Jervis [Orange Co. NY], where the deceased resided.

Thomas S. Purple Esq. well known in Chenango County [NY], died February 14th, at his late residence in Windsor, Broome County [NY] at the ripe old age of 84 years.  He was born in Connecticut in 1796 and removed to Chenango County when a child with his parents.  In 1829, he married Rebecca, daughter of Andrew Race, of Greene [Chenango Co. NY], and about two years later removed to Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] where he lived many years, much respected and often holding positions of trust, being elected Justice of the Peace several terms, and at one time Supervisor of the town.  All of his family, his wife, three sons and three daughters, survive him.  He died of no particular disease, but a gradual decline in old age.

The afternoon express on the Albany & Susquehanna railroad, which left Albany at 3:50 p.m. Friday, met with a narrow escape from being totally wrecked near Richmondville [Schoharie Co. NY], between six and seven o'clock that evening, and the accident which ensued resulting in the death of the engineer.  The train, which consisted of a baggage car, one drawing-room coach and two passenger cars, were drawn by locomotive "Canada," [with] Engineer Ostrander, and at the time of the mishap was under good headway.  When near Richmondville, the driver of the locomotive broke and before the train was brought to a standstill the engine tumbled over on the right side, and buried Engineer Ostrander underneath, who remained at his post. The fireman leaped from the locomotive and escaped with slight injuries.  The sudden stop threw the passengers in the coaches in every direction, but all escaped with slight injuries. The passengers, immediately on discovering what had happened, and learning that Engineer Ostrander was under the debris, set to work to extricate him. Word was sent to Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] for a wrecker, which was instantly dispatched to the scene. Among the passengers who worked energetically to extricate Ostrander was Senator Halbert, and after an hour's hard work the engineer was rescued from his perilous position.  He was carried to a house nearby, where several doctors attended him.  He was scalded in a frightful manner and otherwise injured so badly that his death ensued on Monday.  The track was blockaded for several hours, and the passengers had to be transferred to a train which was dispatched to the scene from Oneonta.

Ransom Wood of East Afton [Chenango Co. NY] who has been sick with typhoid fever for several weeks, was taken with a violent bleeding at the nose last Monday, and it bled form eleven o'clock until four, and was then stopped by the timely arrival of Dr. Wilsey.  Mr. Wood died on Saturday morning.

Nineveh, Broome Co. NY:  Emory Ruland was taken with pneumonia last week and died Sunday.  His funeral was held Tuesday.

Afton, Chenango Co. NY:  The funeral services of one of Mr. Joel Ruland's sons [Emory Ruland] took place at his father's residence, last Tuesday afternoon, after which the remains were conveyed to the cemetery on the east side of the river.

Barbourville [Delaware Co. NY]:  On Friday Erwin Axtell's little boy [Harry E. Axtell, aged 2y] was buried, who died with the scarlet fever.  

Vital Records, Broome County, NY (1875)

 Union News, Union, NY, April 9, 1875

Marriages

LAYCOCK - ATCHINSON:  At Union, N.Y. [Broome Co.] on Sunday, March 28, by Rev. C.S. Dewing.  Mr. Joseph Laycock of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] to Miss Tobia Atchinson of Chenango [Broome Co. NY].

GASTON - MANLUFF:  At Union, N.Y. [Broome Co.] on Friday April 2d, 1874 [sic], by Rev. C.S. Dewing, Mr. Andrew Gaston of Havana, N.Y. [Schuyler Co.]to Miss Kate Manluff of Union, N.Y.

HARRISON - FLANAGAN:  On Sunday, April 4th, 1875, at Union Mills, Ind., by Rev. Mr. Smith, James E. Harrison, Esq. of Union, N.Y. [Broome Co.] to Mattie Flanagan of Union Mills, LaPort Co., Indiana.

Deaths

On March 26th, Avery Olmstead, residing two miles east of Apalachin [Tioga Co. NY], died aged 19 years.  He is spoken of by his neighbors as a good neighbor and friend and an excellent businessman.  He leaves behind him a wife, an estimable lady, and a daughter, who sincerely mourn his loss.  Mrs. Olmstead is a sister to General Catlin of Brooklyn.

A lamentable accident occurred on Sunday afternoon at Port Dickinson [Broome Co. NY].  A party of young men from Whitney's Point [Broome Co. NY] rowed up the Chenango to the above place.  The current was very strong and carried them over the dam turning one boat upside down and throwing the men into the water.  All were rescued except Charles B. Beach of Whitney's Point.  He was drowned.  He was a son of Franklin Beach of Whitney's Point, aged 28 years and leaves a wife and one child.  He was formerly a traveling agent for George Q. Moon, of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY].

The Funeral of the late Henry R. Mygatt took place at Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] on Monday from St. Paul's Church and was largely attended.  Six clergymen took part in the services.  The church was beautifully decorated with flowers.

Mr. Henry Turner of Maine [Broome Co. NY] died very suddenly of heart disease at his residence on Monday March 20th.  Mr. Turner was a man very highly esteemed and his loss will be sincerely mourned.

Union News, Union, NY, April 16, 1875

Marriage

Sheriff Holme of Montrose was married to Miss Jessie Bissell of Jessup on the 24th ultimo.  He razed the siege of Susquehanna Depot, executed Irwin and O'Mara, and led a bride to the altar all in one year.

Deaths

Three children of James E. Wait in the town of Windsor [Broome Co. NY] died of scarlet fever last week Annie [Wait] aged four years and eight months, died Thursday; Gracie [Wait] aged six years and ten months died Saturday; and on Sunday, Henry [Wait] aged one year and five months died.

The death of Miss Emma J. Stewart the lovely and accomplished daughter of Mr. William Stewart, of this city which occurred yesterday morning, creates a profound feeling of sorrow among a numerous circle of friends.  Republican.

On Tuesday morning of last week, Clarence Taft, a nine-year-old boy of Mr. C.H. Taft, of Deposit [Delaware Co. NY] while playing in the garden, dug up a root of which he ate a piece about as large as a hen's egg, supposing it to be parsnip.  He soon told his mother that he felt sick, informing her that he had eaten the root and wondered if it was that that made him sick. His mother told him to take off his boots and warm his feet, not thinking that the root he had eaten was a poison.  He had scarcely taken off his boots when he was thrown into convulsions of the severest kind. Physicians were immediately sent for and everything possible was done to save the little sufferer's life, but without avail, as the poison had quickly done its work and his jaws were set and could not be opened.  It was about eleven o'clock when the poison first affected him and death ended his suffering about two o'clock.  Dr. O.T. Bundy pronounces the root which caused the child's death the poison hemlock and informs us that there are many cases on record of children being poisoned by it.  It tastes like parsnips and is a quick and deadly poison.  A large quantity of the root was found in the garden and removed.  Courier

Union News, Union, NY, April 30, 1875

Marriage

EWELL - ROUNDS:  At the Methodist Parsonage in this village [Union, Broome Co. NY] on the 22d inst. by Rev. William N. Cobb, Mr. J. Ewell to Miss Cornelia Rounds, both of Vestal [Broome Co. NY].

Death

Mrs. Timothy Wood, who formerly resided in Union [Broome Co. NY] and who died in Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] Saturday, was buried on Monday at the cemetery, this village. [Lamira Wood, d. 24 Apr. 1875, aged 59y, buried Chenango Valley Cemetery, Binghamton NY]

News Item

Recovery of the Body of C.B. Beach

The body of Charles B. Beach was found in the Chenango River at about half past two o'clock Friday afternoon, upon the bar a few rods below Noyes' dam or brush dam as it is called, near Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] and not far from the west band of the river.  The bar consists of four or five small islands clustered at this point and filling up the greater portion of the breadth of the river.  Between the islands run narrow and shallow water channels and in one of these the body was found.  The channel was not over eight feet in width, while the water where they body lay was estimated to be not more than from four to six inches deep.  

The body lay with the face downwards in a bed of mud with the feet pointing up the stream.  It was not mangled or bruised and the clothing was entire.  There was very little bloating of the body and scarcely any signs of decomposition.  The friends of the deceased had kept up the search with tireless fidelity for nineteen days, the accident having occurred on the fourth inst.  The same ground has been searched scores of times and up to within a day and a half of the finding of the body.  Frank Burgett, a half-brother, and George Warner started in a skiff to go up to the dam and when they reached the islands they started up through them in this narrow channel, without any purpose of searching here for the body.  From appearances it is thought the body must have lain here several days. 

About an hour after the finding, the body was carried across the river in a skiff to Noyes' Island, where Sheriff Edmister removed the effects of the deceased from the pockets.  These effects consisted of a valuable revolver, a pocketknife, box of steel pens, an order book and a memorandum book, a key, two lead pencils and $4.82 in cash.  From here it was taken in a wagon to the basement of J.S. Frear & Son, undertakers, where it was laid out. The funeral on Saturday was largely attended.  

Vital Records, Madison (1855), Otsego (1880) Counties, NY

 Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, March 7, 1855

Death

In Ithaca [Tompkins Co. NY] on the 2d inst., Mary D. [Williams] daughter of the late John Williams of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] in the 27th year of her age.

Her amiable and modest deportment won the affections of her acquaintances, and her piety gave a charm to her life.  During her protracted illness and severe sufferings, she was comforted and sustained by the Saviour whom she had chosen in her youth.

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, March 21, 1855

Marriage

In Pulaski [Oswego Co. NY] on the evening of the 14th inst. by Rev. A. Oliver, J.B. Watson, Esq. of Pulaski and Mrs. Anna Cole of this village [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY].

Death

In Morrisville [Madison Co. NY] March 16th, of consumption, Mr. Francis Brown, aged 24 years.

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, March 28, 1855

Deaths

In this village [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY] on Thursday morning, the 22d inst., after a few hours' illness, Anna Thomas, youngest daughter of Samuel Thomas, Jr., aged 10 years.

In Peterboro [Madison Co. NY] on the 26th inst. Nehemiah Huntington.  He was born in Connecticut, April 20, 1776.

On the 18th inst. of congestion of the lungs from influenza at the residence of her son-in-law, George Hull, in DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY] of only two days' illness, Mrs. Eunice Barnard, aged 84 years.  Her near relatives were the founders of the city of Hudson [Columbia Co. NY], in which place much of her life was spent.

Also, on the 15th inst. of influenza, at the same place and residence of her son, George Hull, Anna Hull aged 94 years.  

Both these aged mothers have lived in the same family for many years; were taken ill on the Sunday night previous to their death and were "gathered as sheaves fully ripe," beloved by all who knew them.

Freemans Journal, Cooperstown, NY, March 25, 1880

Marriage

On Thursday, March 18, at the residence of the bride's parents, at Cooperstown, N.Y. [Otsego Co.], by Rev. William W. Lord, D.D. Major Charles L. Davis U.S. Army to Margaretta M. [Bowers] daughter of Henry J. Bowers.

The marriage which occurred at the house of Mr. H.J. Bowers on Thursday last and which united his eldest daughter to Major Davis, was a very pleasant social event, conducted much after the good old-fashioned style, the company present comprising many relatives of the happy couple and a few personal friends.  The day was one of the finest of the early spring.  The ceremony was performed with marked grace and dignity by Doctor Lord at 12, then followed congratulations, the wedding feast, an hour or two of social intercourse, during which the elegantly engrossed marriage certificate on vellum was signed by most of those present, the many beautiful presents viewed and admired and the wedding party left for Detroit [MI] where for a time Majro Davis will be stationed, on the afternoon train.  There were three bridesmaids: Miss Mary Cramer of Troy, Miss Susie Cooper and the bride's sister, Martha, and the groom's best man was Lieut. Henry Kirby of the same regiment.  Both were in full dress uniform.  The bride wore white brocade silk trimmed with lace, some of which was worn by her grandmother Bowers at a reception given General Washington in Philadelphia.  Few brides have carried with them from a home in Cooperstown more sincere, good wishes for a happy wedded life, than accompanied our young friend on the 18th.

As this was in part an "army wedding" it is in keeping to mention a few points of personal interest connected with the parties.  Charles L. Davis is Captain in the 10th Infantry, U.S.A. and while serving as Lieutenant during the civil war, was first brevetted Captain and then Major for meritorious services.  His grandfather was Captain John Davis of the Pennsylvania line in the Revolutionary Army.  He was with Washington at Valley Forge during that terrible winter and there took the oath required of all officers.  The parchment now in possession of Major Davis, bearing the signatures of John Jay and Lord Sterling.  After the close of the war, he was commissioned Brigadier General in the Pennsylvania militia.  His wife was the daughter of John Morton, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence and as a member of the first congress, he gave the casting vote of his State in favor of the adoption of that Declaration, the other delegates present being equally divided.  That act gave to Pennsylvania the name of "the Keystone State."

Mrs. Davis, on the paternal side, had for her great-grandfather, Colonel Robert Wilson, who joined the volunteers that accompanied Washington from Philadelphia to Cambridge, served six months under him as Muster Master General, and in '77 as Assistant Commissary General.  He left the service on account of ill health.  He married the only daughter of Col. Charles Stewart, member of the first Provincial Congress of N.J., Colonel of the 1st Regiment of minute men of that State and of the 2d Reg. of the line, and afterwards was one of the staff of Gen. Washington as Commissary General.  He was prominent at the battle of Monmouth.  On the maternal side, Mrs. D. is related to General Israel Putnam, the mother of her grandfather Col. Crain being a Putnam of that family.  Col. C. strongly resembled the portraits of Gen. Putnam, in face and form.  So, there is brought together in this marriage some good Revolutionary lineage.

At the conclusion of the marriage ceremony, the Rev. Mr. Wells read the following very happily expressed and quite characteristic poetic note from the bride's uncle, Mr. Lee:

To Major Charles L. Davis, U.S.A.

While no man two masters can serve, / Yet Cupid and Mars may combine / To claim hand and heart united, / And bonds of devotion to sign.

Though two fields of glory invite you, / Yet a husband a hero may be / While it sheds brighter sunshine on a good soldier's life / When he folds in his strong arms a dear loving wife.

Then keep bright your armor, / And give Mars his due; / Nevertheless to Cupid be true. / "Keep step," if you can, with the matrimonial drum, / And hang all your garlands by the fireside at home.

To the "United States" is now added another / May the Lord of the commonwealth bind it together.

 Accept these few lines from an absentee, with cordial greetings from Frederick A. Lee

"Willow Brook, " March 18, 1880

Deaths

In Fly Creek [Otsego Co. NY] March 14, at the residence of Alex Taylor, Mrs. Joann Taylor Preston in the 84th year of her age.

At Toddsville [Otsego Co. NY] on the 14th inst. Mrs. Susan Gallup aged 76 years.

In Otsego [Otsego Co. NY] on the 14th inst. at the residence of his brother, Walter Van Horne, Abram Van Horne of Utica, N.Y. [Oneida Co.], in the 70th year of his age.

In Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY], March 21, Aaron B. North aged 66 years.

In Chicago, suddenly of pneumonia on the 18th inst. Mr. Joseph Cary of Milwaukee in his 73d year.  Mr. C. was a brother of Mrs. George B. Wood of this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY].

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] March 12, Mrs. George H. Yager aged 61 years.

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY] March 14, William Bailey aged about 60 years.

At Windsor [Broome Co. NY] March 12, Thomas Williams of Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY].

In Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] March 13, Mary A. [Damon] wife of Rev. A. Damon, aged 70 years.

In Middlefield Center [Otsego Co. NY], March 18, Mrs. Agnes Church aged 83 years.

In Plattsburgh [Clinton Co. NY] on Sunday the 21st inst. I. Platt Foot, M.D.. eldest son of the late Surgeon Lyman Foot, U.S.A., in the 65th year of his age.

In Bennettsville [Chenango Co. NY] March 12, Orlando Coats in the 68th year of his age.

At Corning, N.Y. [Steuben Co. NY] March 20, 1880, of disease of the heart, Jane C. [Pier] in her 61st year.

Mrs. P. was a native of the town of Otsego [Otsego Co. NY] for several years a resident of this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], and 30 years ago was quite widely known as the kindhearted and energetic landlady of the "Empire House."  A letter addressed to a friend here says:  "Her death occurred very suddenly on the morning of the 20th.  She had been feeling as well as usual until 7 o'clock the previous evening; was dressed and ready for church when stricken down and after a night of intense suffering, passed away."

Killed at Poughkeepsie [Dutchess Co. NY] on Tuesday, it is supposed on the railroad, a man reported as "Benjamin L. Benson of Cooperstown." [Otsego Co. NY]  We know of no man by that name.  He may have belonged to Cooperstown, Pa.  P.S. It is said a man by that name lived at Toddsville [Otsego Co. NY] at times working in the factories there.

Vital Records, Broome (1839), Otsego (1862) Counties, NY

 Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, February 7, 1839

Deaths

In this town [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] on Sunday last, Mr. Timothy Cross aged 80 years, a soldier of the Revolution.

On Saturday evening last about ten o'clock, Mr. Abram Cortright while in a state of intoxication, left this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] with the intention of going to his place of residence, about a mile and a half north of this village.  The next morning, Mr. C., not returning, his son, about eight years of age, suspecting some accident having happened to his father, went in search of him.  After going about twenty rods from the house, the son discovered his father lying upon the snow frozen to death!  From the appearance of the track in the snow, Mr. Cortright must have fallen down several times and the night being extremely cold, he became chilled, and after falling the last time he was unable to rise and then "slept the sleep that knows no waking."

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, February 14, 1839

Marriage

On Thursday last, by the Rev. Mr. Gregory, Mr. William P. Castle to Miss Margaret Shipman all of this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY].

Death

In this town [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] on the 4th inst. Mrs. Susanna Rose, wife of Col. William Rose, in the 76th year of her age.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, June 4, 1862

Marriages

In Maryland [Otsego Co. NY], May 28th, by Elder J. Cooke, Mr. S. E. Butler of Milford [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Mary Ann [Gurney] daughter of Jesse Gurney, Esq. of Maryland.

In West Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] May 13th by Rev George Foote, Mr. LeRoy Tucker to Miss Rhoda Wing all of Laurens.

Deaths

On Sunday, 18th ult., George L. Benedict, son of Caleb St. John Benedict, of Sidney Center [Delaware Co. NY] hung himself in his father's barn.  Mr. Benedict was a member of Captain Jacobs' Company, Van Allen's Cavalry, and was discharged on account of ill health.  Mr. E.A. Smith went after him a few weeks ago, and he reached home apparently a little better, but still partially ro wholly insane.  In this state, he continued until his melancholy death.  He was in his twenty-first year, was a young man of excellent character and highly esteemed by his friends and acquaintances.

On Friday, May 9th, the wife of James Bronk, in South Worcester [Otsego Co. NY], met with an accident which resulted in her death.  She had previously had a paralytic stroke which deprived her of the use of her right arm and while bathing her lame arm in a liniment, her cloths caught fire from the stove.  She attempted to smother the flames by wrapping herself in a woolen shawl but failed.  When she rushed out of the door and threw herself into a small puddle of water and attempted to extinguish the fire by dipping water with her left hand.  Her husband being at work near by, hearing her scream flew to her aid, but too late.  Her clothes were nearly all burned from her body.  She survived but a few days.  Bloomville Mirror

The body of James Follett Esq. was found in the Susquehanna River about two miles below the village of Otego [Otsego Co. NY] last Saturday, having lodged in about six feet of water against a log.  It was found by a Mr. Crandall, who was searching for the body. The place where the body was found had been looked over several times. The body was nearly covered with sand and rubbish and was considerably decomposed.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, June 11, 1862

Marriage

In Afton, Chenango County [NY], June 2d, by Rev. G.G. Donnely, Mr. L.S. Nye of Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Lenora E. Pollard of Afton.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, June 18, 1862

News Item

Co. I, 76th Reg't, N.Y.S.V. in his correspondence with the Schoharie Republican, says:  "We were paid last week for the four months ending April 30th.  The amount the Company received was $4,096.  Out of this I forwarded $1,600 by express and by draft to the friends of the soldiers.  Many of the men sent home money by mail, which is not included in the amount I sent.  The day after we were paid, we gave three men a pass to go outside the lines and they deserted.  their names are Henry Waggoner, of Fulton [Oswego Co. NY]; Stephen V. S. Sweet, of Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] and Abram Breeze of Summit [Schoharie Co. NY].  Their friends will accordingly receive them as such, but we don't want them if they are not true enough to stick to the Stars and Stripes.  If they can derive any enjoyment from the name and reputation of a deserter, they are most certainly welcome to it.  Our men have been just enough exposed to make them hardy and robust and ready for a little rougher services than they have had heretofore."

Vital Records, Otsego (1825), Delaware (1836) Counties, NY

 Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, August 16, 1825

Six Cents Award

Left the employment of the subscriber on the 12th inst., an indented boy named Isaac B. Tallmadge about 11 years of age, without my consent.  Whoever will return said boy shall receive six cents reward.  All persons are forbid harboring, trusting, or employing him, on penalty of the law. John B. North.  Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY], Aug 15, 1825

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, September 27, 1825

Marriages

On Sunday evening last, by the Rev. Mr. Ambler, Mr. William Davis of Black Rock to Miss Deborah Dutcher, daughter of Mr. John Dutcher, of this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY].

At Carlisle [Schoharie Co. NY] on the 8th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Rexford, Mr. Jacob Taylor to Miss Margaret Swartwout daughter of Mr. Aaron Swartwout, Carlisle.

Deaths

In this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on Sunday morning last, Mrs. Sally Miller consort of Mr. Lewis Miller, aged 20 years.

In this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on the 10th inst. Mrs. Lydia Ball consort of Mr. Jesse Ball, in the 29th year of her age, formerly from Wendell, Mass.

In Springfield [Otsego Co. NY], Mrs. Mary Gilchrist, widow of the late Mr. William Gilchrist, aged 76 years.  She has left a numerous circle of relatives to deplore her loss, and her memory will long be cherished by all who knew her.

_______________________________

The following particulars of the melancholy and afflicting event which occurred on Tuesday evening the 13th inst. are given in the Madison Observer:  "It appears that Mr. Ira Clark, with his two sons, one about 18 [Orsemus S. Clark], and the other about 13 [Edward Clark], together with Mr. Jacob Graves of Colrain (Mass.) a half-brother of Mrs. Clark, who was here on a visit to his friends, went to Leland's ponds, in the town of Eaton [Madison Co. NY], for the purpose of taking fish.  They all four ventured into the pond in a small skiff, very unfit to be managed by unskillful hands, and Mr. Clark becoming alarmed, the three young men set him ashore, at the same time deriding him for his timidity.  Mr. C. immediately went by land to the lower pond and left his two sons and young Graves to row the skiff there also.  After waiting about an hour for their arrival, and feeling anxious lest some accident had befallen them, he returned to the upper pond, and near the same spot where he left them, but his feelings can neither be realized nor described, when instead of finding his sons and brother-in-law, he beheld the skiff upset and the hats and fish poles of the young men floating upon the water, conveying to his mind the awful assurance that they had all three found a watery grave.  The alarm was immediately given and a thorough and vigilant search was made for the bodies, which proved ineffectual until about ten o'clock the next morning, when they were all three found, but a short distance from each other.

Thus, in a moment, three interesting youths, in the morning of their days, full of hope and expectation, by the hand of a mysterious Providence, are snatched from time into eternity and a father's heart, which, but a moment before, was full of joy and gladness is turned into sorrow and mourning."

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, April 6, 1836

Marriages

In this town [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] on the 31st ult. by A.M. Paine, Esq. Mr. John Wilcox of Lexington, Greene county [NY] to Miss Anna Maria [Reynold] daughter of Capt. Elisha Reynold.

In Delhi [Delaware Co. NY] on Wednesday evening, 30th ult. by the Rev. Stephen Jones, Mr. Ira Park to Miss Freelove Kilmore.

At the same place, on Thursday morning, 31st ult. by the same, Mr. Milton Frisbee of Meredith [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Angeline Park of Delhi [Delaware Co. NY].

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, April 20, 1836

Deaths

In this town [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] Mrs. Jane Orwin, wife of Mr. John Orwin, aged 67 years and 7 months.  Mrs. Orwin was a native of England and emigrated to this country in 1801.  The last 29 years she resided in this county.  She was much respected while living and departed this life in the comfortable hope of a happy immortality.

In South Worcester [Otsego Co. NY] on the 26th ult. of gangrenous Erysipelas and typhus fever, Mrs. Marietta [Strain] wife of James Strain, Jr., in the 29th year of her age.  She was a most amiable and lovely person.  she died in the morning of life lamented by her kindred and all who knew her.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, May 11, 1836

Marriages

At Roxbury [Delaware Co. NY] on the 2d inst. by the Rev. A. Bronson, Mr. Aaron Reed to Miss Jane Buckhout, all of Roxbury.

At Paris, Oneida Co. [NY] on the 14th inst. by the Rev. B.B. Hotchkin, Mr. Martin H. Cooper to Miss Catharine McChesney all of the former place.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, May 18, 1836

Marriages

In this village [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] on Tuesday the 12th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Waterbury, Mr. Gideon Wiest to Miss Clarissa Goodman daughter of Simeon Goodman, Esq.

At Franklin [Delaware Co. NY] on the 3d inst. by Elder H. Griswold of Meredith, Mr. Levi Cook to Miss Emeline [Remington], daughter of Mr. Daniel Remington, all of Franklin.

In Delhi [Delaware Co. NY] on the 15th inst. by Elder J.M. Westcott, Mr. Joseph Flower to Miss Phebe Wood, both of Delhi.

There has lately happened in this town, / A fact that's worthy of renown; / A damsel from a Woody bower, / Has been transformed to a mountain Flower.

If Wood begins to blossom thus, / I advise the fair to keep quite close; / Yea watch with care for every hour, / Else you become a mountain Flower.

But ah! 'tis time the vales should bloom, / And yield to the hills a rich perfume; / But is the blossom sweet or sour! / We cannot tell - it's a mountain Flower.

Deaths

In this village [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] on the 2d inst. Mrs. Sally Moore, wife of Col. John Moore in the 75th year of her age.

On Thursday last Mr. Jeremiah Landt of Hamden in this county [Delaware Co. NY], while descending a hill a short distance below this village, accidentally fell from a loaded wagon in such a manner that the wheels passed over him, which caused his death in a few hours.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, May 25, 1836

Deaths

On the 12th inst. at Worcester, Otsego Co. [NY], Mr. Henry Johnson, aged 25 years.

Quite suddenly at North Harpersfield [Delaware co. NY] on the 13th inst. Mr. Lewis Owens aged 54 years.

At Harpersfield Centre [Delaware Co. NY] on Saturday, the 14th inst. Mr. Julius C. Steward.  Mr. Steward was a young man in the morning of life, aged only 28 years.  In this sudden dispensation of Providence, society has lost one of her most active and industrious young men.

Vital Records, Madison County, NY (1867)

 Oneida Dispatch, Oneida, NY, May 11, 1867

Marriages

SMITH - THORNTON:  At Lenox Furnace [Madison Co. NY], May 4th, by Rev. Leander Hall, Mr. Joseph C Smith of Utica [Oneida Co. NY] to Mrs. Harriet M. Thronton of Lenox Furnace.

PARKER - WHEELER:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] May 7th, by Rev. Mr. Grannis, Mr. N. Wilson Parker to Miss Genevieve H. Wheeler daughter of the late Erastus Wheeler, both of Hamilton.

ANGELL - WILLIAMS:  In Hampton [Washington Co. NY], May 4th, by Rev. A.G. Burlingame, Mr. Thomas Angell to Miss Sophia Williams all of Westmoreland [Oneida Co. NY].

THOMPSON - MILLARD:  In Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] May 5th by Rev. B. Newton, Mr. Rial L. Thompson of Pompey [Onondaga Co. NY] to Miss Ellen R Millard of Cazenovia.

Deaths

DOUGLASS:  In Sullivan [Madison Co. NY], April 15th, Charles G. Douglass aged 64 years, son of the late Col. Zebulon Douglass.

KING:  In Clinton [Oneida Co. NY] May 1, Marshall A. [King] fourth and only child of M.A. and Sophie E. King, aged 11 months.

PALMER:  At Eaton Centre [Madison Co. NY] May 3d, John Palmer aged 90 years.

Says the Morrisville Observer, Mr. John Palmer, who died at Eaton Center last Friday was, if not the oldest man in this town, by far the oldest resident.  He came from Massachusetts into what is now the town of Eaton in the spring of the year 1794, at the age of 17, when it was an unbroken wilderness, containing but three inhabitants, and settled upon the farm where he died.  Mr. Palmer in his prime was an esteemed and useful citizen, possessing that social and friendly disposition which was so eminently characteristic of the early settlers of this region.  For some years past, he has been subject to the bodily and mental infirmities incident to old age, and often expressed his desire to depart to that rest which he has so calmly entered.

WILBER:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY] April 20th, Eliza Wilber aged 41 years.

HUGHES:  In the town of Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] April 6th, John H. [Hughes] youngest child of John W. and Hester J. Hughes, aged 8 months and 7 days.

HUNT:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] May 5th, Albinus Hunt aged 73 years

MANSFIELD:  Clockville, Madison Co., NY:  David Mansfield died at the residence of his son, J.L. Mansfield, on Sunday morning, 5th inst. in the 96th year of his age.  He was formerly an old resident of Westmoreland [Oneida Co. NY], to which place his remains were removed on Tuesday for interment.

Fatal Railroad Accident

A terrible and fatal accident occurred at Canastota [Madison Co. NY] on Wednesday evening under the following circumstances:  As Mrs. Palmer who resided at Quality Hill, about two miles southwest of Canastota was crossing the railroad track on Main Street in a covered buggy, the New York Express train, which passes here a little before 6 o'clock and does not stop at Canastota, ran over her, inflicting injuries from which she died in about half an hour.  The horse and buggy, on being struck by the locomotive which was under full headway, were thrown some three hundred feet and deposited a complete mass of ruins, upon the north side of the track.  The horse was killed outright; the head being entirely severed from the body.  Mrs. Palmer was taken from the ruins mangled and torn in the most shocking manner.  She survived her terrible injuries but a few minutes.  The body was taken to the deceased's former home, and the coroner sent for.  The Water House, together with freight cars, it would seem, so obstructed the view that Mrs. Palmer did not see the approaching train until it was upon her and escape was impossible. On arriving and ascertaining the facts, the coroner did not deem it necessary to hold an inquest.  No blame is attached to the engineer, since he gave the usual signals on approaching and passing through the place and could not by any exertions on his part have prevented the accident.

Civil War Letter, May 1861, William B. Downer

 Oneida Sachem, Oneida, NY, May 9, 1861

Civil War Letter from William B. Downer

Elmira Depot, Barracks, No. 2, 1st Regiment, N.Y. Volunteers, Company G.

Dear Sachem:  Having just been dismissed from Company Drill, I will occupy a leisure moment in writing somewhat of affairs here, for your columns.

We reached our barracks here between 2 and 3 A.M.  last Friday morning, being the 1st Regiment of Volunteers for 2 years, completed.  At all the principal stations on our route, crowds of people cheered us on, evincing the proper enthusiasm in a good cause.

Arrived at the Barracks, tired and hungry, we soon took to our bunks and got some sleep, though the severely cold weather made us uncomfortable in our quarters.  The bunks are made double, one above the other, and each are intended for two persons, though three can occupy them comfortably went the weather is not too warm.  In each bunk, there are 2 narrow straw beds and a blanket to each man, occupying the bunk.  Of course we sleep in our clothes. We have 3 meals daily for which the State pays   42 cents per man, or $2.94 per week, for every soldier.  For this sum, we get boiled fresh beef, poor potatoes, bread, and occasionally beans and boiled eggs with vinegar, pepper and salt, but no butter, sauce or pies. We also have coffee twice a day, or what is called coffee.  Hereafter, we expect to have coffee for breakfast, water for dinner and tea for supper.

The contractor merely furnishes the rations.  Government furnishes table, dishes, &c.  You perceive that the contractor makes money, while the soldiers who have so nobly responded to the calls of their country, fare rather hard.  For myself, I had rather meet the terrors of the battlefield, than be compelled to live on the rations and fare now dealt out to us, for any considerable length of time.

Were the government unable to provide better for us, I, for one, could endure the present and ever worse rations, but when such liberal sums are paid to supply our wants, it is difficult to be patient and not complain of ill treatment.

There are some 4,000 Volunteers, at this depot, and more are arriving daily, so that Elmira is getting pretty well filled with troops.

Quite an excitement was produced here this P.M. by the rumor that one of the soldiers at Barracks, no. 3 was to be shot for stabbing an officer.  It is said that the officer struck him, for insolent words, when the soldier stabbed him with a knife, so that he has since died.  Liquor was at the bottom of it, probably.

As we are only some 15 hours distant from Washington by rail, we shall probably remain here until wanted in the battlefield. We expect to be armed and equipped this week.

Persons writing to members of Captain Irish's Company will be careful to add the heading of this letter to the usual superscription, and then the captain will attend to the delivering of the letters or papers forwarded.

Elmira is a village of some 12,000 inhabitants and very conveniently situated for a Military Depot, in the present war.  Gen. Sullivan and his army passed through this valley on their way to chastise the Indians during the revolution.

Yours for Freedom, William B. Downer

____________________________

Sharp Shooters Attention

Rev. W.B. Downer, having been rejected as a private from Company G, 1st Regiment New York Volunteers on account of age, being a few months over 45, is desirous of forming a Military Company to be known as the "Madison County Rifles," of which he shall be one of the commissioned officers.  From many assurances already given, the undersigned appeals confidently to his numerous friends throughout the county, by procuring members for the proposed Company, in accordance with the terms of enlistment given below, and also by contributions of funds to defray the necessary expenses of organization and extra equipments.

The Terms of Enlistment are:  1st age between 18 and 45.

2sd, Sound health and physical condition, good character and temperate habits.

3rd Ability to learn the necessary rifle practice.

[None need apply for membership who could not perforate the heart of Jeff. Davis, or any of his co-traitors, at 20 rods with an ordinary rifle.]

Persons wishing to enroll their names may apply personally, or by letter to W.B. Downer, Peterboro, stating name, age, place of birth, present residence, post office address, single or married, and occupation, when they will receive such further information as may seem necessary in regard to the formation fo the Company.  [Oneida Sachem, Oneida, NY, May 30, 1861]

________________________________

William B. Downer subsequently enlisted in Company F, 157th N.Y. Volunteers.  

Adjutant General Report:  "DOWNER, WILLIAM B.:  Age 44 years*  Enlisted August 25, 1862, at Fenner, to serve three years; mustered in as private, Co. F, September 19, 1862, discharged for disability, February 11, 1863, at hospital, Washington, D.C.

*He apparently removed a couple years from his age, as in August 1862, being born in December 1815, he would have been 46 years of age.

Evidence is that he was pensioned for his service.  [Application #11010, Certificate #516971]

________________________________

Obituary, William Bainbridge Downer

Rev. William B. Downer was born in Fenner, Madison County [NY] Dec. 12, 1815, and died in Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] March 24, 1895, from injuries received by a fall five days previous.  At an early age he became interested in religious matters and chose the ministry as his future work.  His labors, which continued during the earlier period of his life, were confined to various parts of his native state.  He was greatly interested in educational matters and was a successful teacher, teaching one term after passing his seventieth birthday.  In 1862, he heeded his country's call and entered the Northern army as a private soldier, serving a part of the time as hospital nurse. While on the battlefield he gave to the great cause for which he was fighting, his eldest son, William Lorenzo.  Becoming disabled, Mr. Downer returned to his father's home, where was his family, but soon after removed to the place which he occupied at the time of his death.

February 26, 1889, Mr. Downer was married to Harriet L. Fay, of Fenner, with whom he lived for more than fifty years.  Of their eight children five are still living.  Mrs. Seymour Spencer, Charles E. and Henry C. Downer reside in Syracuse; William, in Chittenango, while Flora C. Remained at home to cheer the declining years of her aged father.  Besides his children, six grandchildren and one great-grandchild mourn his loss.  Of his father's family only one remains, his youngest brother, Luke W. of Peterboro.

Two weeks ago, the deceased with his children visited Syracuse for the purpose of helping to lay all that was mortal of his youngest sister, Mrs. O.D. Scoville, to rest.  At that time, he expressed the feeling that death is not a time of mourning, but rather, of rejoicing, because life's toils are o'er, life's sorrows done, life's mission finished, immortal life begun.

The funeral of the deceased was held March 27 at the Baptist Church in Cazenovia of which church he was a member at the time of his death, the pastor, Rev. Mr. Keyes, officiating. The G.A.R. Post attended the services in a body.  Many friends and relatives gathered to pay a last tribute to the dead, who was borne by members of the post to his final resting place at the side of his faithful wife.

Oneida Semi-Weekly Democratic Union, Oneida, NY, March 30, 1895

Vital Records, Cortland (1850), Chenango (1880) Counties, NY

 McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, February 7, 1850

Marriage

In Freetown (Cortland Co. NY] on the 29th ult. by Rev. E.B. Fancher, Mr. Joshua Stanton of Virgil [Cortland Co. NY] and Miss Harriet Borthwick of the former place.

Death

In Dryden [Cortland Co. NY] on the 5th inst., Benjamin C. Thomas aged 22 years.

Murder at Sangerfield [Oneida Co. NY]

An affray occurred at Sangerfield on Monday evening last, by which one man came to his death, and another was so seriously injured that his recovery is considered extremely doubtful.  The particulars, as far as we have been able to learn them, are these:

A man by the name of [Benjamin F.] Button and another named [Edward] Locke, had some difficulty at a ball in Brookfield [Madison Co. NY] a few weeks since and separated with the most angry feelings.  About 8 o'clock on Monday evening, Button came into the tavern at Sangerfield, whereupon some of Locke's friends very injudiciously sent for him, and upon his arrival, a fight ensued between the two in which Locke was finally victorious, Button declaring that he had received "enough."  Locke then permitted him to rise, and he quietly seated himself in a chair.  During the fight Bennet, the landlord, who was absent at a school meeting, had been sent for, and upon his entrance, he made some inquiry concerning the disturbance to which Locke returned an exasperating answer.  Immediately thereupon Button drew a knife and rushed upon him. The landlord interfered and ordered him to desist, but was disabled by a severe stab.  Button then struck Locke a furious blow in the abdomen, inflicting a ghastly wound, through which the intestines protruded.

Locke died in four hours.  Bennet still lingers, but his life is despaired of.  The murderer was arrested and committed to jail on the following day.

The deceased was a young man about 22 years of age and is said to have sustained a good character.  Button is represented to be a man some 40 years old, of dissolute habits.  Madison Journal.

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, February 21, 1850

Marriage

In Solon [Cortland Co. NY] on Sunday morning, 17th inst. by Rev. E.B. Fancher, Mr. Perry W. Rowe, Esq. and Miss Sophia Adams, adopted daughter of C.C. Cass, of the former place.

Deaths

In Cortlandville [Cortland Co. NY] on the 19th inst., Leonard Tisdale, aged 74 years.

In McGrawville [Cortland Co. NY] on the 20th inst., Corintha [Cowles] daughter of Russel Cowles, aged 38 years.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, February 21, 1880

Marriages

DORION - GILLSON:  In this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY] Feb. 19, 1880, by Rev. Dr. Smith of Cazenovia, assisted by Rev T.L. Randolph of Sherburne, Mr. Severe Dorion of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] and Miss Carrie W. Gillson of this place.

BACON - HARRIS:  At the bride's residence in Hart [MI], Sunday Feb. 8th, 1880, by the Rev. J.H. Churchill, Mr. L.N. Bacon to Mrs. Almira Harris.  

"Mr. Bacon has been a resident of this section of country for some years and is distinguished for his Christian devotion. The lady removed here from the State of New York with a year or two, having twice been left a widow there.  She is of a very social nature and has felt her loneliness very keenly.  Although somewhat along in years, yet she has shown the spirit, enterprise and determination of a girl.  Having been a faithful wife and devoted mother, may her last days be her best days, and may the couple live long and be happy."

The above, from a Hart, Michigan paper will be read by many friends of the bride, who extend their heartiest congratulations to the newly wedded couple.

Death

BAKER:  In San Francisco, Ca. January 3d, 1880, Mr. Edgar G. Baker aged 45 years.

Mr. Baker was a much-respected resident of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] and a man of energy and enterprise.  His health had been failing for some years.  He went to California last fall in the hope of recovering benefit from the change and atmosphere of the Pacific coast, but as the result shows, the disease was too deeply seated, and he lived but a short time after his arrival in San Francisco.  He leaves a widow and three children.  In the death of Mr. Baker the community loses a worthy citizen and an honest man.