Vital Records, Madison (1854), Broome (1874) Counties, NY

 Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, October 4, 1854

Marriages

In this village [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY] Tuesday morning, October 3d by the Rev. D.W. Bristol, Mr. Joseph Tyler of Buffalo [Erie Co., NY] to Miss Emma S. Greenland of Cazenovia.

On the 28th ult. by the Rev. William Reddy, Mr. C.D. Monroe of Rome, Oneida County [NY] to Miss Jane Parker of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY].

At the Lincklaen House [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 27th, by Rev. William Clarke, Mr. Alphonzo Ray to Miss Frances F. Bailey, both of Pompey [Onondaga Co. NY].

In DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY] on the 24th ult. by Charles H. Maxson, Esq., Mr. Joseph Bailey to Miss Mary D. Tripp, all of that place.

In Sullivan [Madison Co. NY] on the 26th ult. by Rev. C.E. Hewes, of Cazenovia, Henryt D. Burrows of Perryville [Madison Co. NY], to Emily H. [Britt] only daughter of Sargent Britt, Esq of Sullivan.

In Manlius [Onondaga Co. NY] on Tuesday, Sept. 16, by Rev. Mr. Reid, E.C. Fellows of Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY] conductor on the N.Y.C.R.R. to Miss Frank A. Wood of Manlius.

In Fenner [Madison Co. NY], Sept. 12, by the Rev. William M.T. Wadsworth, Mr.k Stephen Chaphe and Miss Sarah White both of Nelson [Madison Co. NY].

Deaths

In this town [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY] on the 17th ult, Lucy A. Jenkins [Robertson], wife of Edwin R. Robertson, aged 21 years.

In New York City on Friday morning Sept. 29th, of consumption, Eliza T. Brroadfield, wife of Robert Broadfield.

In New Woodstock [Madison Co. NY] Sept.  21st, Lorinda [Blair] oldest daughter of Ardath and Lucy Blair, aged 21 year and 5 months.

She was cut down in the bloom of youth, with high anticipations of a life of happiness and usefulness.  Yet during her illness, she was fully resigned to the will of God and could say with the Apostle the "to live is Christ, but to die is gain."  She leaves her parents, two sisters, a brother, and a large circle of relatives and friends to mourn her loss.  May God bless the heart-stricken parents and weeping children.  M.W. Ripley

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, October 11, 1854

Marriage

In Nelson [Madison Co. NY] Oct. 4th, by Rev. William Clarke, Mr. John Tannatt and Miss Amanda A. Hamblin both of Nelson.

Oswego [Oswego Co. NY]:  The body of Alvin Curtiss who has been missing since Thursday last, was found in the Oswego River this morning, and shows evident marks of violence. The physicians at the coroner's inquest swear that his death was not caused by drowning.  The evidence taken goes to show that he must have been murdered and then thrown into the river.

Mr. Adam Thumb, a farmer, residing on the Central Square Plank Road, about half a mile north of Cicero village [Onondaga Co. NY], was killed by a lever while drawing wood on Thursday afternoon last. he was working alone a short distance from his residence and was accidentally found by a neighbor who was crossing the field.  He was doubtless instantly killed as the blow was a very severe one on the back of the head.  Mr. T. was about 58 years of age and leaves a family in good circumstances.  Syracuse Journal

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, October 18, 1854

Marriages

On Thursday, October 12th by the Rev. G.S. Boardman, Mr. D.M. Pulford to Miss Frances Rebecca Greenaldn, all of this village [Cazenovia, Madison Co., NY].  The printer was not forgotten.

On Tuesday, the 17th inst.by the Rev. G.S. Boardman, Mr. Josiah Ballard of Charlemont, Mass., to Mrs. Sylvia R. Warner of this place [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY].

In Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY], on the 12th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Hayes, Mr. Robert Divine to Miss Mary Haley both of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY].

Deaths

In Madison [Madison Co. NY] on Tuesday the 12th of Sept. Bulah [White] wife of Capt. Samuel White, aged 87 years.

In Madison [Madison Co. NY] on Wednesday the 27th ult. Capt. Samuel White aged 91 years.

In the city of Bridgeport, Ct., Sept. 26, John S. Marshall, aged 36.

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, October 25, 1854

Marriage

On the 22d inst. by the Rev. William Reddy, Mr. Cyrenus Ackley of DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY], to Mrs. Amanda Rice of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY].

Deaths

Of Consumption in Fenner [Madison Co. NY] on the 12th inst., Mr. Otis Taylor aged 51 years.

His funeral was numerously attended at Nelson [Madison Co. NY] last Sabbath; a large circle of relatives and acquaintances deeply deploring their loss, in view of his usefulness as a neighbor, his efficiency as a Town Officer and his piety as a Christian.  He dedicated himself to the service of God about two years since, became an ornament in the church and died in the exercise of triumphant faith in the Christian religion.

On the 18th inst. in Fenner [Madison Co., NY] Mr. Guy Hatch aged 86 years.

Mr. Hatch was one of the first settlers in the town of Fenner, where he has resided for over 50 years.  He was widely known and universally respected as an estimable citizen and his death will be deeply regretted by a large circle of friends and acquaintances.

In Erie, Pa., on the 20th inst., Dr, Isaac Lyman aged 85 years.

It is with profound regret that we are called upon to announce the sudden death of Mr. Ransom H. Harmon, one of our most esteemed citizens.  He died of cholera, at Baltimore, Mich., on the 11th inst.  Some three weeks since Mr. H. left our village in high health for a tour through the great West.  "Such is life" and death.  Mr. Harmon was a brother-in-law of Anon Smith and was about 41 years of age at the time of his death.  Madison county Journal

Union News, Union, NY, November 14, 1874

Deaths

In this village [Union, Broome Co. NY] Nov. 6th, 1874, Deacon Nathan Whittemore in the 86th year of his age.

In this village [Union, Broome Co. NY], of scarlet fever on Tuesday Nov. 10th, 1874, Amie [Armstrong] daughter of James E. and Rachel A. Armstrong, aged 6 years, 10 months and 6 days.

She was a lovely child, a beautiful bud, plucked that it might blossom in the gardens of the Lord.  Her illness was short and painful, but she bore it with fortitude becoming an older person.  She will be missed by her little school mates, and all who knew her happy face. The whole community will tender those she has left behind her, a sympathy deep and unreserved.

The Deposit Courier says that near Narrowsburg [Sullivan Co. NY], a short time since, a Mrs. Skinner died aged one hundred and four years. She distinctly remembered hearing the cannons roar at Bunker hill and seeing the red coats of the Britishers pass her father's door.

Union News, Union, NY, November 21, 1874

Death

In this village [Union, Broome Co., NY] of scarlet fever, Nov. 18th, 1874, Chester M. [Mersereau] son of Mark and Belle Mersereau, aged 2 years 1 month and 22 days.

Union News, Union, NY, November 28, 1874

Death

On Saturday last a man by the name of Edward Pease dropped dead on Court Street in Binghamton [Broome Co. NY].  He was from the town of Windsor [Broome Co. NY] and was a meat peddler.  He is spoken of as an industrious man, well deserving citizen.

Vital Records, Delaware (1835), Madison (1867) Counties, NY

 Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, September 2, 1835

Marriage

At East Franklin [Delaware Co. NY] on Monday morning 31st ult. by Elder Griswold, Mr. Jairus Burt to Miss Miriam Ogden, daughter of Daniel Ogden, Esq.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, September 9, 1835

Marriages

In Guilderland, Albany County [NY], on Wednesday, the 26th ult., by the Rev. William Davis, Mr. George J. McMurdy of Kortright, Delaware County [NY] to Miss Jane W. Grant of the former place.

In Hancock [Delaware Co. NY], on Thursday the 27th ult., by John Doyle, Esq., Mr. Royal Wheeler, 2nd,  to Miss Sally Jane Miller.

Death

In this town [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] on the 28th ult., Miles Henry [Barlow] son of Mr. Hiram Barlow, aged 2 years and 11 months.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, September 16, 1835

Marriage

At Colchester [Delaware Co. NY] on Wednesday the 9th inst. by the Rev. E.K. Maxwell, Mr. Daniel S. Combs of Hamden [Delaware Co. NY], to Miss Adelia Bogart of the former place.

Death

At his residence near New Haven, Conn., Amos G. Hull, M.D. of the City of New York, aged 60 years, of a short and severe illness.  Dr. Hull was one of the earliest and for many years one of the most extensive practitioners of the healing art in the western part of this state and has become well known to the faculty and the world by his improvements in practical surgery.  In his death the medical profession is deprived of a valuable member, society of a useful and exemplary citizens and a large circle, of a highly esteemed friend, but to an affectionate family his loss is irreparable.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, September 23, 1835

Deaths

At Roxbury [Delaware Co. NY] on the 12th inst. after a severe illness of several weeks, which was borne with extraordinary patience and submission, Reuben Frisbee in the 27th year of his age.  By this afflictive disposition, the community in which he lived, the Church of Christ, to which he was attached, and of which he was a worthy member and office bearer, a large circle of relatives and friends, and especially his youthful companion and little son have suffered an irreparable loss. To those who knew him best, and under different circumstances would mourn the most, this cup of affliction is sweetened by the assurance that their loss is his Eternal gain.

At Bovina [Delaware Co. NY] on Thursday morning the 16th inst. Miss Meritta Stratton daughter of Mr. Jesse Stratton of Roxbury aged 23 years.

In Deposit, [Delaware Co. NY] on Sunday the 13th, Sept. inst., Jopnathan F. [Briggs] son of Capt. George W. Briggs, aged 4 years.  

Also on the same day in Deposit [Delaware Co. NY] Elisha [Tucker] son of Rev. Levi Tucker, of Philadelphia, Pa., aged 5 years.

Also on the same day in Deposit [Delaware co. NY] Helen [Peters] daughter of Henry Peters, aged 3 years.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, September 30, 1835

Marriages

On the morning of the 14th inst. by the Rev. G.L. Kirtland, Mr. Henry Andrews of Meredith [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Sarah Maria [Hollister] daughter of Mr. C. Hollister, of Delhi [Delaware Co. NY].

On the 22d inst. by the Rev. E.K. Maxwell, Mr. Charles C. Fish to Miss Laura Ann Hotchkiss all of Delhi [Delaware Co. NY].

On the 21st ult. by the Rev. Elbert Osborn of Harpersfield [Delaware Co. NY], Mr. David Powers to Miss Abigail Harrington both of Worcester, Otsego County, N.Y.

At Montrose, Pa. on the 22d inst. by the Rev. Mr. Worden, Major Sidney T. Robinson of Catskill, Greene County, N.Y., formerly of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] to Miss Mary L. [Post] daughter of David Post, Esq. of Montrose.

At Union, Broome County [NY] by the Rev. J.M. Rowland, Mr. Ransom Bostwick formerly of this village [Delhi, Delaware Co., NY] to Miss Mary V. [Mersereau daughter of Capt. Lawrence Mercereau, all of Union.

Accompanying the above we received a bountiful slice of the bridal loaf. We congratulate the happy couple on this occasion.  May they enjoy a long life of unalloyed happiness and prosperity and all the blessings of the connubial state.

Oneida Dispatch, Oneida, NY, April 13, 1867

News Item

Our Legislators

The following sketches of our Senator and representatives are taken from "Life Sketches of the State Officers and Members of the Legislature" by S. Harlow and H.H. Boone.

See posting of Aug. 30, 2026, for biography of James Barrett.

Benjamin F. Bruce

Mr. Bruce has, perhaps, more of an air distinguished than any other member of the Lower House.  His tall, finely developed figure, his proud, erect bearing and his well-shaped head, combine to attract the attention of the Spectator in glancing over the gentlemen who compose the Assembly.  Mr. Bruce has a deep, sonorous voice, which has been highly cultivated, and, as an orator, he fully commands the attention of the listener.  Some of his most brilliant speeches were extemporaneously delivered. In fact, he seldom puts his ideas on paper, preferring to trust himself to the impulse of the occasion.  Mr. Bruce is a generous hearted man, and in conversation is easy and entertaining.  He is a native of Lenox, Madison County, New York, and of Dutch and Scotch lineage.  In youth he acquired nothing more than a plain English education and then became clerk in a country store.  From sixteen to twenty-one he was engaged on the canal and then began farming. But, being naturally inclined toward politics, Mr. Bruce early displayed a disposition to engage in State affairs and readily attained a great measure of influence in the Whig party, which he represented in the Constitutional Convention held in 1846.  In that convention, Article two, Section one of the constitution, in relation to the elective Franchise, was originally framed by Gov.. Bouck, chairman of the committee on franchises, so as to commence "Every white make citizen, &c."  Mr. Bruce moved an amendment striking out the work "white" but after an animated debate, in which he defended his idea with a masterly skill, it was defeated.  It required no little moral courage at that time, to advocate negro suffrage without property qualifications, yet it is worthy of note that the congressional district in which Mr. Bruce resided sustained his views.

In those days, the military of this State received no little attention, and there were aspirations as there are now, for bars and stars upon the shoulders and for commissions of high rank.  Mr. Bruce's military merits received recognition at different times and he was looked upon as an officer under the old militia regime, who was worthy of signal recognition.  He received from Gov. Marcy, the appointment of Brigade Major and Inspector of the 35th Brigade and held the office until 1851, when he was appointed Inspector General by Gov. Hunt, holding the place until he was removed by Gov. Seymoru in May 1853.  during the gubernatorial administrations of governors Clark and King, Mr. Bruce again discharged the duties of Inspector General.  In the meantime, after duly inspecting the old arsenal in New York City, situated in the vicinity of the Central Park and finding it in an unsafe condition, and a source of great expense on account of its unfavorable situation, he recommended the sale of it and the ten acres accompanying it, taking the proceeds thereof for the purpose of erecting arsenals and armories in different parts of the State.  His suggestions met with favor in the Legislature, and the property was sold for $275,000 and out of the proceeds without any additional expense to the State, several fine arsenals have been built. The wisdom of this enterprise is perfectly obvious.

Mr. Bruce was removed by Gov. Morgan in 1850.  We should mention in this connection that in March 1851, he was made Inspector of Railroad Tolls, resigning, however, when he was appointed Inspector General.  In January 1861, he was chosen Canal Commissioner by the Legislature to fill the vacancy occasion by the death of William H. Barnes, who had been elected in November 1860.  Mr. Bruce was nominated for the same office in the fall of 1861.  The Republican convention indorsed and adopted the ticket made up by the People's Convention, except the nomination of F.A. Talmadge, for Canal Commissioner, in whose place Mr. Bruce was substituted, being the only Republican nominee on the ticket.  This division of the Republican Union vote resulted in the election of William W. Wright, the Democratic candidate, by a small plurality.  In Nov. 1863, Mr. Bruce had the satisfaction of again running against Mr. Wright and of defeating him by a majority of nearly thirty thousand.  He now represents the Second district of Madison County in the Assembly, having been elected by a majority of 798.

In the appointment of Committees, the Speaker selected Mr. Bruce as Chairman of the Committee on Federal Relations.

To be continued with Bushrod E. Hoppin

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1880)

 Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, January 30, 1880

Marriage

JULIAND - COAN:  Married in Guilford, Conn., January 28th, 1823, by the Rev. David Baldlwin, Mr. Richard W. Juliand and Miss Lucretia Coan.

When a husband and wife have seen their fifty-seventh wedding day, they may well be said to have reached the golden age of matrimony.  The venerable host and hostess, who received a few friends at their hospitable home "on the hill" last Wednesday evening, have arrived at that period, and with the mellow light of life's declining sun shining upon their heads, they stood before the assembled guests implying by their actions that they were ready to repeat the pledge of mutual affection which they exchanged more than half a century ago.  Time has not chilled their hearts, though it has scattered its snows of many winters in their hair, and with its rough hand traced here and there, its furrows on their brows.  It was truly refreshing to look upon their bright, genial faces when we consider how many years have passed from Time into Eternity since they first plighted their troth at the altar.

Within the period of time which has elapsed since our dear friends were made one, nations have been divided, empires overthrown, kingdoms set up, and the very face of nature in many parts of the world, has changed.  But there has been no change in the bridal couple who entertained us so handsomely the evening of their recent anniversary, save that which years produce on the outer shell of humanity.  In soul and spirit the bride and bridegroom of that evening were the bride and bridegroom of fifty-seven years ago.  This is an age of improvements; but there are some things which cannot be improved.  One of them is old fashioned affection.  It is most beautifully illustrated in the lives of the two esteemed friends of whom we are speaking.  Though one, from infirmity and age, is deprived of a great deal of his own self-dependence, yet the other watches over him most tenderly and affectionately and administers to his every want.  We see in them the picture of love triumphant over time, which Burns doubtless had in his mind's eye when he wrote that most touching of all ballads, "John Anderson, my Jo."  For more than fifty years they have traveled together the pathway of life, through storm and sunshine, trusting and clinging to each other, and though they are now old in years, yet they are young in heart, and are happy in the love of one another.  In the name of the guests present at their fifty-seventh anniversary, we wish them a safe and pleasant journey to the end of their earthly pilgrimage.

We trust that the remainder of the sea of life over which they may, by God's providence, be permitted to sail, will be tranquil and placid as an inland lake surrounded by mountains and that, as they draw nearer and nearer to the haven where they would be, and to which we are all bound, may "the peace of God which passeth all understanding" be theirs.       E.L.J.

Deaths

Shortly before noon Thursday, Mr. Alpheus Finch, an elderly gentleman living on Oak Street in the First ward, and an employee of the Erie Railway, was struck by an engine about three and a half miles east of the city, thrown from the track and so severely injured that he died soon after he had been carried to his home.  Leader, Binghamton, [Broome Co., NY]

Bennettsville, Chenango Co. NY:  It is with pain I report the death of Mrs. Eli Seely this week.  She was one of those persons whom God had endowed with the kindliest of dispositions and was loved and respected by all who knew her.  Through her illness, which was an aggravated form of inflammation of the lungs, she bore all the suffering without murmur. She died with all her children around her. [Charlotte Cossaart Seely, 8 Jan. 1818 to 19 Jan. 1880, Aged 62y]

South New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY: Mary Robson was taken sick Saturday and died Monday morning.  The doctor was unable to decide what the disease was.

South New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY:  Mrs. Alice Owens buried her little daughter here Sunday.

South New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY: Albert Phelps died Saturday after a short illness. The funeral was held Tuesday.

Mt. Upton, Chenango Co. NY:  Mrs. John Coon died Sunday afternoon. The funeral was held Tuesday at 1 o'clock, at her late residence. [Rose M. Spaulding Coon, d. Jan. 25, 1880, aged 36y]

Mrs. Hiram [sic] Place died at the residence of her son, Jarris Place, Monday morning, Jan. 20th.  she had been sick some time with dropsy of the heart. [Betsey Thayer Place, d. Jan. 26, 1880, aged 71y]

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, Feb. 12, 1880:  As the proper names in the notice of the death of Mrs. Place have so far appeared in all the papers mangled almost past recognition, we esteem it almost a duty to attempt getting it in straight.  She was the relict of Huron [sic Huram], whose death occurred about six years ago, and died on Monday morning, January 26th, at the home of her son, Jarvis Place.  Her funeral was largely attended at the Union Church on the Wednesday following, after which her remains were taken to White Store [Chenango Co. NY] for interment.

Mt. Upton, Chenango Co. NY:  Gracie [Owens] a little child of Mrs. Alice Owens, died Friday night with scarlet fever. The funeral was held at the Baptist church Sunday, at 11 o'clock, and the remains taken to South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] for interment.

________________________

SAYRE:  Entered into eternal life at Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] very suddenly of apoplexy, Tuesday, January 20th, 1880, William Strong Sayre, Esquire, in the 77th year of his age.

Although several notices of the death of Mr. Sayre have been given to the public, in which were mentioned some of the principal historical points of his early life, yet we deem that a few more words in regard to his character and long life of usefulness in our midst will be acceptable and appropriate at this time.

Mr. Sayre was one of our oldest and most esteemed citizens, as the large attendance at is funeral testified. After graduating at Hamilton College in 1824, he began immediately the study of law at Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], and in 1827 was admitted to the bar as a practitioner.  In the same year he selected Bainbridge for his home and entered upon the practice of his profession in partnership with the Hon. John C. Clark, at one time a Member of Congress from this congressional district.  By a close application to business and a faithful discharge of all trusts committed to him, he soon won the confidence of his fellow citizens and built up quite a remunerative practice.  On the 9th of September 1829, he was united in marriage, by the Rev. Norman A. Adams, to Miss Leaphe Bush, sister of the Hon. Joseph Bush, of this village, and for more than twenty years he was blessed with the companionship of a delicate, but true and devoted wife. She brought to him eight children, five of whom died in infancy, and three now remain to mourn the great loss so suddenly brought upon them in the death of their honored father. After a lingering and painful illness, this faithful wife and loving mother bid farewell to the dear ones of earth and entered into the paradise of the saints gone before.

In 1851, he was married to Miss Sarah McMurray of New York City, a most estimable lady, and one who, for nearly thirty years, has been all that any husband could expect of a wife.  Loving, gentle, kind and forbearing, a solacer in his troubles and sorrows, and a sharer in his joys and pleasures, she now remains in her widowed loneliness, to mourn the sad loss which has fallen with such a shock upon her.  May the Father of All Mercies send His holy spirit to comfort her in her bereavement with the assurance that He is ever the widow's God!  As "in each life some rain must fall, some days be dark and dreary," so Mr. Sayre's life was no exception to this general rule or sentiment.  But after he had passed the meridian of life trouble came upon him, and yet, through it all he carried himself like a Christian gentleman, and finally emerged into the sunshine of a quiet life, broken in earthly fortune, it is true, but with a character "unspotted" from contact with the world and worldly things, and filled with the "unsearchable riches of Christ."  The highest eulogy which can be paid to him is to describe his character in the plainest terms.  His whole life, private and public, was marked with modesty, purity, unblemished integrity, a firm and sound judgment, and an unostentatious hospitality.  He possessed a highly cultivated mind and was a faithful and judicious expounder of the law.  He never encouraged one neighbor to go to law with another for the sake of getting a case; but always, if he saw no just cause for action being brought, advised them to settle the differences between each other without the aid of the law; and the confidence with which he inspired men, by his noble and unselfish advice and counsel was unbounded.  

For more than half a century, he was not on an humble communicant of the Episcopal Church, but was also for all those years, a true and faithful officer, either as a warden or a vestryman, in St. Peter's parish in this village and was the junior warden of the parish at the time of his death.  He was an earnest, zealous churchman, and was always ready and willing to do the duty of a Lay reader when the Rector happened to be absent, or when the parish was without a clergyman.  Faithful in every trust, constant in his attendance upon the services of the church and the holy communion, and in all his duties as a churchman, he leaves behind him the memory and example of one who "showed his faith by his works."

All classes and all denominations loved and honored the church in him.  For such sons the church may well rejoice and give thanks, even while she mourns that her earthly courts shall know them no more.  His loss and absence we must lament deeply, and yet, when we consider his eternal blessedness in the translation, for such it surely was, from this world to a life of never ending joy and peace, it seems almost a selfish mourning, for, like the good Cornelius, his prayers and his alms have gone up for a memorial before God, and while his name was echoed with sorrow here, it was whispered and carried upward by angels, embalmed and kept ever fresh in that realm of eternal day.  He has gone to join an innumerable company of angels and the spirits of the just men made perfect; and above all he sees His face, and His name is written upon his forehead by whose most precious blood he has been redeemed.

Knowing so well the true Christian life our dear departed friend led while on earth; yea, that he was almost snatched from his knees (while kneeling around the family altar pouring out his soul in prayer to God) up into paradise, can we mourn as those who have no hope?  No1 No! Far from it! On the contrary we confort ourselves with soul-comforting words: "They which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him."

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY (1808, 1824, 1825)

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, January 2, 1808

Marriage

On the 26th inst. in the town of Milford [Otsego Co. NY], Mr. Andrew Johnson to Miss Abigail Ellis after the following courtship:

On Friday evening, the bride sent to the bridegroom, for a pair of shoes with a promise that if he would make them, she would marry him.  He accordingly made the shoes on Saturday and carried them to her and claimed her promise.  She declared she was ready, and in less than two hours they were married by the Rev. Mr. Dodge.  We wish them much happiness in their new connection but beg the liberty of applying the following stanza from that excellent Poet, Doctor Wyatts.

"Not the wild herd of Nymphs and Swains, / Who, thoughtless fly into the chains, / As custom leads the way; / If there be bliss without design, / Ivies and Oats may grow and twine, / And be as blest as they"

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, January 16, 1808

Death

Died suddenly at Cherry Valley [otsego Co. NY] on Friday the 8th instant, of a painful and torturing illness, in the 22d year of her age, which she bore with unexampled patience and resignation, Miss Susan Mills, daughter of Capt. Roger mills, of Canajoharie [Montgomery Co. NY].

"The voice said, cry.  And he said, what shall I cry? All flesh is grass, and all the goodness thereof is as the flower of the field; / The grass withereth the flower fadeth; because the spirit of the Lord bloweth upon it; surely the people is grass. / The grass withereth, the flower fadith; but the word of our God shall stand forever."  Isaiah XL, 6, 7, 8.

News Item

Ran Away from the subscribers on the 25th instant, an indented apprentice boy, named Anson Parsons, about 18 years and an half old.  All persons are therefore hereby forbid harboring, trusting or employing him after this date.  Cyrenus & Elnathan Noble, jun. Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY], dec. 30.

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, January 23, 1808

Death

Died in the town of Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] on Sunday last, Mrs. Bethiah Jacobs, relict of Mr. Jacobs of Hingham, Mass. in the 73d year of her age.  Her funeral was attended on Tuesday last and an appropriate sermon delivered by Elder Bostwick. She has left an only child, Mr. Ezekiel Jacobs, and six grandchildren to bemoan her loss.

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, January 30, 1808

Death

Died suddenly in Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] on Wednesday evening, the 20th instant, Mrs. Ann Hall consort of Mr. Thomas Hall, in the 71st year of her age.  Her funeral was attended on the Friday following and an appropriate sermon delivered by Elder Bostwick.  She has left a large number of relations and friends to bemoan her loss.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, December 28, 1824

Marriage

On the 23d instant, by the Rev. C. Fitch, Captain Oren Thompson to Miss Nancy Hutchinson, both of this town.

Death

At Springfield [Otsego Co. NY] on Thursday last, Mr. Daniel Rathbun aged 50 years.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, January 11, 1825

One Dollar Reward

Ran away from the subscriber, the beginning of October last, a black boy, aged about 21 years by the name of Tom.  Whoever will return said boy, shall receive the above reward, but no charges paid.  All persons are forbid harboring or trusting him on my accord,  John Minckler, Jun., Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY], Dec.  18. 1824

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, January 18, 1825

Marriages

On the 10th inst. by the Rev. C. Fitch, Mr. James Hetherington late of Derbyshire (Eng.) to Miss Rachel Sherman of this place [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY].

At Danube [Herkimer Co. NY] on the 11th inst. by the Rev. Andrew Oliver, Mr. Ten Eyck Van Horne to Miss Mary Canter.

At Utica [Oneida Co. NY] on the 4th inst. by the Rev. S.W. Brace, Mr. John Burtis, formerly of this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Mary Ann Bell, all of that place.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, January 25, 1825

Marriages

In this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on Tuesday evening the 18th instant by the Rev. C. Fitch, Mr. Samuel Stickney to Miss Elsie Johnson both of Fort Edward [Washington Co. NY].

On Sunday the 16th inst. at Cobleskill, Schoharie Co. [NY] by Elder Julias Beeman, Mr. Thomas Gifford of Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Eliza Butler of the former place.

Deaths

In this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on the 20th inst. Mr. David Goodell aged about 75 years.

At Baltimore, on the 14th inst. the Hon. Robert Goodloe Harper a distinguished citizen of that place.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1879)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, November 13, 1879

Marriages

ZELLERS - HARRIS: In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 5th, by Rev. Mr. Todd, Mr. Frank T. Zellers of -?- to Miss Cepha Harris of North Norwich.

GAGE - POTTER:  In Morris [Otsego Co. NY] Nov. 2d, by R.M. Townsend, Esq. Mr. Albert W. Gage of Morris to Miss Carrie Potter of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

ABBOTT - TUTTLE:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 6th, by Rev. O.L. Leverne, Mr. John C. Abbott to Miss Clara C. Tuttle, all of Smyrna, N.Y.

Smyrna, Chenango Co. NY:  There was a pleasant gathering on Smyrna Hill last Wednesday, the occasion being the wedding of John C. Abbott of this village to Miss Clara C. Tuttle.  May happiness and joy always attend them.

NOONAN - McDONALD:  At the Catholic Church in Worcester, Otsego Co. [NY], Nov. 2d, by Rev. Father -?-, Mr. William J. Noonan of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Elizabeth McDonald of Worcester.

HARRINGTON - HUNTER:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 2d, by Rev. J.F. Tauint, Mr. Eugene Harrington of Greene to Miss Libbie Hunter of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY].

BENNETT - JOHNSON:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 5th, by Rev. J.C. Sholland, assisted by Rev. B.F. Marsden, Mr. Frank D. Bennett of Rockdale [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Marie Johnson of Sherburne.

BRYAN - RAY:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 9th by Rev. R.F. Mareden, Mr. Arthur W. Bryan of Sherburne to Miss Minnie Ray of Bridgeville, Delaware.

SPICER - DeMARSE:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] Nov. 5th, by Rev. O.D. Taylor, Mr. Hiram H. Spicer to Miss Carrie DeMarse both of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].

HUMPHREY _ DAVIS:  In Gilbertsville [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 1st, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Oreon W. Humphrey of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] to Miss Anna J. Davis of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY].

SHEARER - STEERE:  At the residence of the bride's parents in Laurens, Otsego Co. [NY] Oct. 19th by Rev. Hiram Lee, Mr. George B. Shearer of Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Carrie Gartsee Steere daughter of the late Henry Gartsee and granddaughter of John M. Gartsee of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

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ALDRICH - BLINCOE:  At the home of the bride in South Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 5th, by Rev. L.C. Hayes, Mr. Christop[her Aldrich to Miss Libbie Blincoe, all of Plymouth.

South Plymouth, Chenango Co. NY:  A very pleasant affair was the wedding on Wednesday evening of last week at Blincoe's fine new residence, the principal parties being Christopher Aldrich and Miss Elizabeht Blincoe, both of this place.  Twas the consummation of a long, old-fashioned courtship, a matter which of course is no concern of ours, but a noticeable fact in these times when so many, as Wesley has it, "marry in haste and repent at their leisure."  At six o'clock the knot was strongly and neatly tied by Rev. Leroy Hayes, and after numerous and repeated congratulations from some sixty invited friends, heaping upon the newly wedded pair, every conceivable blessing of married life, the company engaged in general merry making till ten o'clock, when all sat down to a most inviting repast, The table being loaded with nearly every form of delicacy known to the culinary art.  Of the numerous costly presents of silverware, table linen, etc. we would that we could speak in detail.  A six-dollar castor presented by Joseph Brooks, Theron Holmes and William Crandall, was especially fine.  With scores of others who have long known the bridegroom and bride and learned to esteem them for their many generous, ennobling qualities of mind and heart, we join in wishing them the choicest blessings and most unalloyed happiness, within the reach of transient mortals.

_________________________

Oxford, Chenango Co. NY"  Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Rogers of this town, celebrated the 50th anniversary of their wedding at their residence on the East Hill on Wednesday last. There was a large attendance of friends form home and abroad, Preston, Binghamton, Union, Illinois and Massachusetts being represented.  Many fine presents in gold were given to the worthy and aged couple.  Dinner was served from two until four P.M. after which a poem, written for the occasion was read and the company dispersed, happy in spirit for the honor they had conferred and the enjoyment it brought.  Times

Deaths

WRATTEN - In Smyrna (Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 26th, Mr. William Wratten aged 30 years.

BUTTS:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 9th, Mr. Gardner Butts aged 74 years.

Smyrna, Chenango Co. NY:  Mr. Gardner Butts, one of our oldest citizens, died at his home in this village on Sunday morning last, at the age of 74 years.  He has been a great sufferer for many months past.  Deceased has resided in town for thirty years.  He was always a staunch Democrat and has taken the Union ever since he first came to town.  His funeral was largely attended on Thursday and the remains were taken to North  Norwich for interment.

ADAMS:  In Columbus [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 4th, Sally [Adams] wife of Orris Adams, aged 43 years and 3 months.

BROMLEY:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY] Nov. 1st, Mrs. Levi Bromley aged 33 years.

BURDICK:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 1st, Mr. Samuel Burdick, aged 79 years.

STRONG:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 29th, Mr. Dwight M. Strong aged 25 years.

LENDERSON:  In Brisben [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 25th, Calista [Lenderson] wife of George W. Lenderson, aged 36 years.

PEACE:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 13th, Elisabeth A. [Pease] wife of George Pease, aged 47 years and 4 months.

FRANCIS:  In Newport, Mo. Oct. 20th, Mr. David Francis aged 53 years and 6 months, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co. NY]

SHERWOOD:  In Utica [Oneida Co. NY] Oct. 27th, Mrs. Willis Sherwood aged 75 years, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

TROWBRIDGE:  In a Detroit [MI] paper we notice the death of Mrs. Mary A. Trowbridge.  Mrs. T. was the youngest daughter of the late W.D. Knap of this village [New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY].

HARRIS:  New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY:  Mrs. Harris, wife of the late John Harris, died suddenly on Wednesday inst. aged eighty-five years, it being her birthday.  Up to within a few hours of her death, she had been about the house apparently in her usual health. [Polly Palmer Harris, d. 5 Nov. 1879]

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Alfred D. Cary of Fort Plain [Montgomery Co. NY], a young man some thirty years of age, who was to have been married on Thursday last to Miss Etta Hudson Ward, an estimable young lady of that village, committed suicide at a hotel in Mohawk [Herkimer Co. NY] on Wednesday morning by shooting himself through the head with a revolver.

Without notifying anyone of his intention to go away, deceased took the Tuesday evening train for Mohawk, where he put up at the Mohawk Valley Hotel.  He took an envelope and a sheet of paper with him to his room and requested to be called at six o'clock in the morning.  He was called in the morning, when he responded and said he would soon be down and when, an hour and a half or two hours later, the reason was investigated, it was found that he was in his room but could not be aroused. A porter went through the transom and found him lying on his bed, clothed except as to his coat with his right hand lying across his breast and grasping a seven shooter, one chamber of which he had emptied, the ball entering his brain through his right temple.  The appearance of the bed indicated that he had not slept in it.  In the paper and envelope in his room were from seventy-five cents in money and the envelope was addressed to a stationer in Utica, for whom the amount was evidently intended. There was about $16 in money in his pocketbook.  He left no word of explanation for his rash act.

Deceased was a most exemplary man, a member of the Methodist church and a devout Christian.  He was a partner with his uncle, Alfred Cary, in the insurance business and was widely and popularly known.  Apparently, he and Miss Ward were perfectly happy in each other's affections.  Nothing unusual was observed in his appearance on Tuesday and he went to the polls and voted as usual.  The deed was committed with a pistol which he had bought recently.  He was involved in no business or financial troubles and the cause for the tragedy is a mystery.

Mr. Cary was a distant relative of Albert Cary, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].  Miss Ward, his intended, is a relative of Mrs. David Griffing, of this village, with whom she spent some days last summer.  Several of the invited guests to the wedding had arrived in the village, among whom was Mrs. Griffing and many beautiful and costly presents had been received in anticipation of the joyous event, which was fixed for three o'clock on Thursday afternoon.  When the unfortunate young lady received the news of his death, she was thrown into convulsions and great alarm was felt by her physician and her friends for her recovery, and her condition since has been very critical.

Vital Records, Otsego (1873), Chenango (1877) Counties, NY

 Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, July 9, 1873

Deaths

Died, at Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], on the evening of Tuesday, July 1st, Dr. Blin S. Sill in the 66th year of his age.  The deceased was a son of the late Andrew Sill of Burlington, Otsego County [NY].  He came to Bainbridge about the year 1837, and in company with Dr. S.W. Corbin commenced the practice of medicine.  Bainbridge Review.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, July 16, 1873

Marriages

June 10: At St. Paul's Cathedral, Ontario [Canada], by the Lord Bishop of Huron, assisted by the Dean of Huron, William Yates of Rochester, N.Y. [Monroe Co.], to Miss Julia Forbes of Paris, France.

Mr. Will Yates has many friends in this city [Elmira, Chemung Co. NY] who will be pleased to read this morning the announcement of his marriage which will be found in its appropriate place in another column.  The ceremony was performed in London, in the Province of Ontario [Canada], the lady being Miss Julia Forbes, daughter of an English clergyman in Paris.  It was a very quiet affair, the bride's friends being in Europe.  No invitations or cards were issued. A Bishop of the church of England performed the ceremony and a General in the English army gave the bride away. The Directors of the Great Western Railway Company placed their car at the disposal of the bride and in it the party came on to Niagara Falls.  Mr. Yates is a resident of Rochester, to which place he came directly with his newly made wife.  Many here send their congratulations and wishes for future happiness and prosperity.  Elmira Advertiser. Mr. Yates was a brother of Mrs. J.R. Blackman of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY]

July 3: At Westford [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. P.C. Bentley, John A. Race of Roseboom [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Minnie A. Baldwin.

July 9: At Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. H. Halstead, R.G. Brown to Miss S. Lemira Crane, both of Unadilla.

At the residence of the bride's parents in Otego [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. J.W. Mevis, Rufus J. Hyatt to Miss Addillah Merithew all of Otego.

July 2:  At Springfield [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. S.J. Douglass, Charles B. White to Miss Malvira E. Hoke.

July 3: At the M.E. parsonage in Otego [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. J.W Mevis, Charles T. Kilpatrick of Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Sarah J. Mevis of Milford [Otsego Co. NY].

July 2: At Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev.. G.B. Burnside, Hamilton D. Carr of Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Mariett Maples of Hartwick.

Deaths

June 2: In Otego [Otsego Co. NY] Mrs. Emily Hale widow of Levi Hale, in the 72d year of her age.

July 7: At her home in Otego [Otsego Co. NY] Mrs. Electa Burdick aged 53 years.

July 5:  In Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] Mrs. Rosey Green aged 41 years.

June 6: In Morris [Otsego Co. NY] after a long illness, Miss Mary Hay daughter of John D Hay, aged 25 years.

John Light, a resident of this town [Morris, Otsego Co NY] died very suddenly at his residence last Saturday morning of heart disease.  The deceased was able to be about his farm the day before his death and give orders as to the work.  He was one of our respected farmers and a good citizen and leaves a large circle of relatives and friends to mourn his sudden departure from this world of care and sorrow.  His funeral was held at the M.E. Church last Sunday, and his remains were taken to New Berlin [Chenango Co NY] for interment.

Mr. T.R. Angell, Esq. is yet suffering severe illness and not expected to live but a short time.  Dr. Bassett and wife from Binghamton, Dr. Cooke and wife from Otego and S.E. Cooke from Springfield and two or three brothers of Mr. Angell and relatives here are administering to his wants and making his last moments as comfortable as possible.  P.S. - Mr. Angell died on Monday evening, just as the sun went down.  He was one of our oldest citizens and long did he enjoy the respect and confidence of his fellow men, having held for a number of years the office of Justice of the Peace. Was a Christian gentleman and died at the advanced age of 80 years.

A boy named Holcomb, aged about 13 years, while boating on the river near Milford [Otsego Co. NY] on Sunday last, was amusing some younger children on shore by rocking the boat, which suddenly capsized and the youth was drowned.  His remains were recovered in a short time.  Let this sad case prove a warning to those who seek pleasure on the waters.

New Berlin Gazette, New Berlin, NY, February 24, 1877

Marriage

DAVIS - BLACKMAN: At the residence of the bride's father in Columbus [Chenango Co NY], Feb. 15th, by Rev. N.J. Hawley, Mr. C. Davis of Philadelphia and Miss Mary E. Blackman of Chicago.

Death

Died in New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] Saturday, February 17th, 1877, Mr. John Harris aged 93 years 1 month and 1 week.

On the 23rd day of December, Squire Harris was born to his last home.  Little did those who stood with the brother beside the open grave amid the sleet and drifting snow of winter think that in eight short weeks, the two who had lived together for fifty-four years in this world would be united in the next.  For six times only had the sun arisen in all its light and glory, when Uncle John met with the sad accident that caused his death, and now after seven long weeks of pain and suffering he has at last found peaceful rest.  Never was a sound of murmuring heard, not a word of complaint was offered, always tho'tful for those around him.  His mind was bright and active to the last.  

Mr. Harris was the oldest inhabitant of our town, a man of sterling integrity and moral worth. Being positive in nature, he dealt with men and things from his convictions of right and justice; was active and energetic even in his old age; social, kindhearted and worthy of the esteem and friendship of all.  He was much respected and liked by all who knew him.  He was a soldier in the War of 1812 and the oldest Mason in the State of New York.  He had lived to bury the bride of his youth and five children, but his last days were blessed with the fond and loving care of the wife of thirty-nine years and the devotion of the last daughter and two grandchildren.  But one brother now remains, Harvey Harris, aged 81 years; the last of eleven children. Father and mother, brother and sister, have one by one, been gathered to the "beautiful home" where the footsteps never falter; where the eye never grows dim and where death never parts the loved ones. Around the life of Mr. Harris there clusters no associations of desolation or ruin, but his memory is rather like some "enchanted temple, unspotted by profane hands." "Like the sun, his life seemed largest at its setting."  Enshrined in the hearts of all who knew him well, his loss is widely felt and most sincerely.  Not a doubt or a fear clouded his last hours, and we doubt not that glad welcome from spirit friends broke upon his listening ear, before his gentle spirit had freed itself from earth.  "Tis blessed to go when so ready to die."

"One by one / We too shall come to the river side/ One by one/ We are nearing its shores each even tide. / One by one"

Good Old times, by Effie Johnson (1868)

 Telegraph & Chronicle, Norwich, NY, April 8, 1868

Good Old Times

by Effie Johnson

About the time - we have not the exact date - that the south part of Guilford was thus being settled, the valley of the Unadilla River, which forms its eastern boundary began to attract attention.  People in general were shy of the valley with its enormous pines, its low flat lands, and its river, which during the Spring freshets overflowed its banks even worse than it now does, and therefore purchased farms at a safe distance back upon the hills.  Mr. L. Cornell, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], and Mr. Pettengill of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], were of this number.  Mr. Ezekiel Wheeler purchased a farm directly upon the river and built a large house, famous in the days of our grandfathers for its honey parties.  Emboldened perhaps by his example, or about this time, we hear the names of Hayes, Richmond, Winsor, Chamberlain and Smith, mingled with the stories of "good old times." A log tavern kept by Mr. Smith was the forerunner of the present old Latham stand [in 1868]. A log schoolhouse across the street was the first schoolhouse in the town. Religious services were often held here, so this may be considered the first nucleus of a church, in a town which now contains 14 church edifices in most of which weekly services are held. 

We must believe that the young people of those days were rather gay by their own showing, for we hear of the merry husking bees and quiltings and dancing parties held in the old Richmond house which contained the only dancing hall for miles around. They tell us of the rare old current wine, which never maddened people as the poisoned liquors of today do; of the famous mince pies made of the great yellow apples which grew in the corn field, yet so skillfully seasoned that the good old Connecticut settler smacked their lips rejoicing that they were once more permitted to taste the old fashioned apple mince pie.  It seems strange to us, to think of the dear old silver haired people so serene and good and maybe a very little intolerant of youthful follies to think of these same old people, skipping around in the very lively dances of those days, cutting the pigeon wing, dancing the Virginia reel, the country dance, &c, &c.  Well, it must be that wisdom comes with riper years.  

Rafting in those days was an exciting employment.  Thousands of feet of the grand old pine lumber which this section of country produced, were lashed together into enormous rafts, a cabin well stocked with provisions, was built and then when the river was very high, during the spring freshets, these rafts were started for Baltimore, each raft carrying men enough to manage it.  It was rapid riding enough, even if steamboats were unknown.  

Norwich was not much like the wide-awake thriving village it is now [in 1868]. A small "settlement" consisting of a few houses was all of Norwich and the "highway" between the valleys of the Chenango and Unadilla, was only a bridle path. The same mode of communication existed between Norwich and New Berlin.  People might ride on horseback or walk, as best suited their inclination.  Ladies might be permitted to ride behind their liege lords upon the same horse if they chose to, or they might ride alone. 

A lady belonging to one of the families whose names I have mentioned, started on horseback, in company with a lady friend to visit an acquaintance who lived some five or six miles distant. They were rather late on their return, and the shadows of the old forest were pretty dim long before they had reached the clearing in which their house was situated.  Mrs. R. became conscious that they were pursued and the stealthy pattering of the footfalls which now and then reached her ear, she knew too well. She was aware also of the excessive timidity of her companion and knew if she should tell her a wolf was following them, she would perhaps faint and fall from her horse, thus rendering her doom certain.  So, laughing gaily and speaking very loud, she challenged her for a race, and no one would have imagined from the manner of the gay laughing girl, that her heart was quaking with mortal fear.  It was only after they had reached the clearing around their home, and she turned and pointed to the dim figure of a hugh black wolf, who, with fiery eyes stood watching them just within the wood, that her friend knew of the fearful peril they had escaped.

"I had a little adventure which I did not care to have repeated," said old Mr. R., whose reminiscences of the olden time had beguiled many a weary hour.  "Do let us hear it," said his auditors, for Grandpa R's stories were always worth the hearing.  "I was a young man in those days and my chief and almost my only possessions consisted in a fine young horse, which I was riding across the hills from Norwich to New Berlin. It was late and I hurried on fearing the night would overtake me, and a knew that to pick my way down the hillside in the narrow path I was riding would be almost an impossibility.  My fears were realized.  Night came on dark enough while I was yet far from any dwelling.  What could I do?  Wild beasts were plenty; even now I could hear the distant howl of the wolf and without a light, with no means to build a fire to frighten them away, camping out was not to be thought of.

So, I gave my horse his head, and for a while he carried me on safely.  When just as I began to hope, his feet went from under him, and I found, on trying to get him up, that he had slipped partly under a large log, which I could not move anymore than I could the mountain.  Poor fellow, he tried hard to get on his feet again, but it was of no avail.  I began to fear he was fatally injured.  I had not much faith but thought I would try the power of my lungs, as it was my only resort.  How long I had halloed, I cannot tell, but it seemed a long time, when I fancied I heard an answering shout.  Then I shouted with redoubled energy and heard an answering halloa.

Soon after, a light appeared in the distance and help, yes, surely was coming, two strong men with a lantern, who helped me get up my horse, which was unhurt and took us to their hospitable home.  It certainly seemed like a providence that this man whose home was almost a mile away, should open the door of his house and stand awhile looking out before retiring for the night, which he was about to do, and it seems providential too, that he should have heard my voice which was not the loudest (though I did do my best) calling for help just at that moment.  Altogether, I felt very grateful and happy.  Grateful to my heavenly Father as well as to my earthly friends, as I laid my head upon a soft pillow, instead of the frozen ground and enjoyed one of the best night's rest of my life."

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1880)

 Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, January 10, 1880

Marriages

BUCHANAN - GILADETT:  At the M.E. Parsonage, Nov. 22, 1879, by Rev. O.H. McAnuity, Mr. Charles Buchanan and Miss Emma A. Giladett.

O'BRIEN - BULGER:  At St. Malachi Church in this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY] on the 6th inst. by Rev. Father Ludden, Mr. Michael O'Brien and Miss Bridget Bulger, both of Hamilton [Madison Co. NY].

O'BRIEN - GANLEY: In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] on the 7th inst. by Rev. Father Ludden, Mr. Michael O'Brien and Miss Mary Ganley, both of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].

Last evening the spacious farmhouse of Mr. and Mrs. Leroy S. Wilcox above Ridge Mills, was filled with people who had gladly come together in response to an invitation to join in celebrating the fifteenth wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. W.  The occasion proved a very pleasant one for all present, and their number was, not exactly legion, but over two hundred.  As the guests entered, they were heartily received, and in evergreen letters, suspended from an arch, they were bid a "welcome" that was mute, but as full of meaning as if it had been a thousand times orally repeated.  The company included, besides neighbors, a large number of persons from the city and the surrounding country.  Among those present were Mr. and Mrs. E.W. Walker, of Sherburne, parents of Mrs. Wilcox.  They were accompanied by sixteen others from Chenango County [NY]. Camden was also largely represented.  In social converse, at the festal board, and with vocal and instrumental music the time was passed in pleasure until the smaller hand of the clock began the approach to the smaller figures on the dial.  A sumptuous feast was spread, under the experienced leadership of Mrs. D. Wallace. The tables accommodating sixty at each sitting, were filled a third and partly a fourth time.  The bride and groom of fifteen years were made the recipients of numerous valuable presents, including an elegant set of parlor furniture, a China tea service, articles of silver ware, etc.  Thus was friendship affirmed on both sides, and all were glad of it.  the good wishes of their many friends will always be with Mr. and Mrs. Wilcox, not simply by a large majority, but by a unanimous vote.  Rome Sentinel Jan. 6.

Death

WILLIAMS:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY] January 3, 1880, Mr. Oscar Williams, aged 54 years.

The decease of Mr. Oscar Williams which we are compelled to record this week leaves a vacuum in our community that cannot be easily supplied.  Mr. Williams was an honest, industrious and intelligent farmer, a good citizen and kind and obliging neighbor.  He had filled several offices of public trust with satisfaction to his constituents and credit to himself.  He had been in poor health for some months but was thought to be recovering, when seized by a second attack about a week preceding his death which suddenly terminated his earthly existence.  He leaves a widow and two daughters (the eldest Mrs. Walter Pudney) who have the earnest sympathy of a large circle of friends in their bereavement.  His funeral was held at his late residence on Tuesday, Rev. Mr. Ballou conducting the services and the large concourse of friends who attended and followed the remains to their last resting place attested the esteem in which the deceased was held.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 20, 1880

Marriages

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], May 16th, by Rev. C.E. Brockway, Linn L. Biggs and Carrie May Watts of Norwich.

On Thursday evening of the Free Methodist, General Quarterly Meeting at Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] May 13-16, by Chairman Moses N. Dunning of Rome, Mr. O.A. Pratt of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Emily G. Stearns of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY].

In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY] May 16th by Rev. A.B. Jones, Jesse E. Trumtic of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] and Flora M. Wright of Pharsalia.

Deaths

In this town (Page Brook) [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] May 7th Mrs. Esther Scott mother of Mrs. john Wilson, aged 73 years.

In Kansas May 8th, Mrs. Antoinette [Beardsley] wife of Bronson Beardsley, formerly of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] aged about 65 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] May 10th after a lingering illness, Sarah M. [Sinclair], wife of James H. Sinclair, in the 55th year of her age.

Mrs. James H. Sinclair, the wife of the associate editor of the Chenango Union, died in Norwich on Monday of last week.  Mrs. Sinclair was a noble woman and highly respected and very much beloved by a large circle of personal friends.  We extend to Mr. Sinclair, the bereaved husband, our heartfelt sympathy in this hour of deep affliction.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] May 10th, Mary O. [Clary] wife of Michael Clary, aged 70 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] May 8th, Marcie E. [Wilson] daughter of William and Ann Wilson, aged 3years, 8 months and 10 days.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] Cynthia L. [Bushley]\ daughter of Norman and Thankful Bushley, aged 19 years.

In Preston [Chenango Co. NY] May 6th, Mary L. [Brewer] wife of Byron Brewer, aged 20 years.

In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] May 4th, of cancer, Mrs. Celinda Rogers, widow of the late Dea. Sanford P. Rogers of Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY] aged 65 years.

In Smithville Flats [Chenango Co. NY] Saturday May 3d, Mrs. Malinda Partridge aged 66 years.

Deceased was born in the town of Triangle [Broome Co. NY] in the year 1814 and passed her entire life in this vicinity.  In the year 1838 she was married to the late Avery B. Partridge, formerly from Connecticut and since that time she was for the most part a resident of this village.  She was a person of excellent character in all the relations of life, respected by her friends and neighbors and now leaves a good reputation behind her to testify to her worth.  One son, Mr. Ell T. Partridge of this place, survives to mourn her loss.

Vital Records, Chenango (1847), Cortland (1849) Counties, NY

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, September 1, 1847

Deaths

In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY] on Friday last, George Oliver [Bement] aged three years, and Charlotte [Bement] aged one year, children of Mr. George Bement.

The Springfield Republican reports that Charles O'Brien, an assistant Conductor on the Western railroad, fell between the cars while the train was in motion near Palmer [Saratoga Co NY], and one of his legs was severed from his body near the hip.  He was conveyed to Springfield [Otsego Co. NY] and his wound was dressed int he hope that his life would be preserved.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, September 15, 1847

Marriage

In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] on the 7th inst., Mr. Asa M. Wilber, to Miss Mary R. [Dimmick] daughter of Eber Dimmick, Esq. all of Smyrna.

Deaths

In Sempronius, Cayuga County [NY] on Wednesday morning, the 8th inst., Mrs. Eliza K. [Robbins] wife of J.W. Robbins, M.D. and daughter of B.B. Kingsley of Triangle, Broome co. [NY] formerly of Cincinnatus, Cortland co. [NY].

In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on the 7th inst. after an illness of 22 days, Henry M. [Hurlbut] eldest son of Dr. H. Hurlbut, aged 14 years.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, September 22, 1847

Marriages

On Monday, 20th inst. by Rev. C.P. Jennings, Mr. William Eaton to Miss Amarinthe E.T. Carr all of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

At Geneva, W.T. by the Rev. Mr. Henson, Mr. Sidney Buell formerly of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Mary L. Maynard of the former place.

Deaths

In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on the 6th inst. Mrs. Anna Wagner wife of Fredrick Wagner, in the 70th year of her age.  Mrs. W. had for many years been a communicant of the Presbyterian Church and died in the triumphant hope of a glorious immortality.

In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on the 11th inst. Lucinda M. Holmes of Moscow, Genesee Co. [NY] aged 21 years.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, September 29, 1847

Marriage

On the 23d inst. by Rev. J.S. Mitchell, Mr. James Mahan of Pine Grove, Warren Co., Pa., to Miss Catharine Brooks of Guilford [Chenango Co, NY].

Death

On the 6th inst. at his residence in Cambridge City, Ia., Leander Hurd formerly of this place [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], aged 25 years.

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, September 6, 1849

Marriage

In McGrawville [Cortland Co. NY] on the 1st inst. Mr. William R. Stephens to Miss Dorcas E. Seacord, both of Solon [Cortland Co. NY].

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, September 13, 1849

Deaths

In Cortlandville [Cortland Co NY] on the 11th inst., Mrs. Rebecca Case aged 64 years.

In Cortlandville [Cortland Co. NY] on the 12th inst., Mrs. Lucy Gilbert, aged 85 years,

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, September 27, 1849

Marriages

In McGrawville [Cortland Co. NY] by Rev. E.S. Bush, on the 19th inst. Mr. Lafayette Tripp of Floyd, [Oneida Co NY] and Miss Orrilla Rowe daughter of Mr. Rufus Rowe of the former place.

In Homer [Cortland Co. NY] on the 23d inst. by Rev. Hezekiah Harvey, Mr. Olive Root of Toledo, Ohio, and Miss Mary Roberts of the former place.