Vital Records, Chenango (1879) & Otsego (1880) Counties, NY

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, December 5, 1879

Birth

Sidney Plains, Delaware Co. NY:  Mr. and Mrs. Albert Smith are rejoicing in the possession of - O, my! what little fists - and what little tiny feet - all belonging to one little girl not weighing over 8-1/2 pounds.  Uncle "Handy" looks sedate.

Marriage

Mr. O.D. Merchant, Republican correspondent at Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], was united in marriage on the 25th inst. to Miss Mary Harris of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], formerly a teacher in Bainbridge Academy [Chenango Co. NY].  The announcement appeared among our marriage notices last week, but through inadvertence on our part was not especially referred to.  It demands more than a passing notice.  Mr. Merchant is one of those whole-souled intelligent gentlemen that make good husbands and parents, and his chosen companion is highly esteemed both as a teacher and socially.   May their union be a long and happy one as they float down the matrimonial stream and may no waves buffet their bark of love, nor squalls occur save those indispensable to a happy home, until they enter that peaceful realm where [neither] mother-in-laws nor divorce suits disturb not the tranquility of conjugal affection.

Deaths

A son of Oliver Hager of Masonville [Delaware Co. NY] a student of Bainbridge academy [Chenango Co. NY] last term, died at his home of typhoid fever, Monday. [Frederick Hager, age 17y]

Mr. Fred Hager, whose sickness we mentioned last week, died Sunday morning last.  Funeral services at the house Tuesday morning, and was buried in the cemetery in the Whitman district.  He was a young man for whom every one that knew him had a good word to say.

Michael Whalen, a man about sixty years of age, dropped dead on Clinton Street, Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] Wednesday.

Miss Sally Spickerman died at James K. Spencer's last week, and her remains taken to Sidney [Delaware Co. NY] for interment.

Republican, Binghamton:  A terrible accident occurred at Central Bridge [Schoharie Co. NY] on the A. and S. Railroad yesterday by which John Enders, a wealthy citizen was instantly killed.  Mr. Enders and three or four men were loading a thresher on a wagon nearly opposite the post office. The horses took fright at something and ran away.  The reins caught under Mr. Ender's arms and around his neck and the team in their mad flight dragged him along.  He fell under the wagon and was dragged across the five tracks and switches of the  yard directly toward the post office.  Here the horses took a sudden turn westward.  The unfortunate man was dragged one hundred and fifty rods before he became detached from the reins.  His neck was broken and the head almost completely scalped.  Mr. Enders was fifty years old, unmarried, and a wealthy farmer.  he lived one mile east of Central Bridge, near Schoharie Junction.  he was highly esteemed and his death is regretted by the entire community.

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 Mrs. Dr. E.S. Lyman died in Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] Monday last, aged 63 years. [Mercy (White) Lyman, d. 1 Dec. 1879, wife of Dr. Elijah Smith Lyman]

She was a sister of Mrs. William Corbin of Bennettsville [Chenango Co. NY].  She had been in feeble health for two or three years past and had known that the disease which was upon her (a lung difficulty) would in time prove fatal; but the immediate cause of her death was pneumonia, which, in the state of her health was incurable.  

Mrs. Lyman was highly esteemed by all in Sherburne and surrounding towns where known and has resided in Sherburne since her birth.  She was the youngest child of Dr. Asa White, of whose family there are now living three sons and three daughters, all over sixty-five years of age.  The deceased was a member of the Universalist church and a staunch believer and supporter of its doctrines and has done as much as anyone person, if not more, to build up that church in Sherburne.  She was a highly intelligent and well-educated gentlewoman and one of those who are missed, not only in the family circle, but by the entire community.  always at the head of public enterprises, wherein ladies' assistance was required and ready at all times to assist the needy. She will be sadly missed and happily remembered.  She leaves a husband and two sons to mourn her departure, besides a great many other relatives and friends who join in their grief.  The funeral obsequies were held Thursday, and the remains interred in the family burial ground at Sherburne.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, February 5, 1880

Marriages

At the residence of Mr. and Mrs. J.H. Shaul in Otsego [Otsego Co. NY] Jan. 29 by Rev. S.M. Cook, Deloss M. Harrington of Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] and Cora A. Robinson of Otsego.

In Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY] Jan. 28 by Rev. C. Venton Patterson, Everett Simmons and Miss Ida V. Ray, both of Edmeston, N.Y.

Deaths

In Fly Creek [Otsego Co. NY] Jan'y 27, Clara May [Decker] child of Thomas and Elizabeth Decker, aged 1 year 11 months and 5 days.

In Richfield Springs [Otsego Co. NY] Jan. 25th, of consumption, Mary A. [Schooley] wife of Albert Schooley, aged 43 years and 4 months.

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY] Jan. 20th Ann Eliza A. Tillson daughter of Cephas S. Tillson, aged 35 years.

In New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY] Jan. 18, Mrs. Mahala Abbey aged 80 years 8 mos. and 22 days.

Civil War Letter, Warren Cutshaw, December 1861

 Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, January 8, 1862

Civil War Letter from Warren Cutshaw

Camp Keyes, Upton's Hill, December 29th, 1861

Friend Carpenter:  Another year has passed and how differently with many of us from that of the previous one.  One year ago, this country was, comparatively speaking, at peace with itself at least.  It was looked upon by other nations as a model Republic for its Free Institutions.  And well might it have been called the Giant of the world.  But how is it today?  The fife and the drum are heard in every State of this union from the pine tree state to the golden state of the west, calling men to arms. They have responded manfully to the call of their country to such an extent that at the present time we have got but little less than seven hundred thousand Federal troops in the field, and I hope that the fife and drum will continue to sound until every vestige of secessionism is swept from our land. Then we shall have peace. But I promised you in my last letter that I would let you know how we passed Christmas and here it goes.

On account of the scarcity of Turkies out here, the friends of the Lansingburgh company, of which I have the honor of being a member, concluded to give the boys a Christmas dinner.  We received a box from them Christmas Eve, containing twenty Turkies and eighty mince pies.  The Turkies were all stuffed and cooked according to the statute in such cases, made and provided.  There was a Turkey for each tent and one for our officers.  It was great sport to see the boys marching down the street with their shares, each party claiming that they were monarchs of all they surveyed and their rights none dare dispute.

The Saints Rest occupied by Bunnell, Simons and brother, entered into a consolidation with the proprietors Longstaff, McNeally, Salisbury, Nobles and your humble servant of Lafayette Place to the effect that both of these ancient and well-known houses should be joined together for the period of one day, and each one should give in his rations to the chief cook, Lew Simons, and said Simons was duly invested with full power to buy such other articles as were needed for the furtherance of the great feast, prepared especially for our invited guests and ourselves.  Whereupon each member of both houses entered into a solemn compact and agreed to share the expenses pro rata. We invited five young men belonging to the 22d Regiment to dine with us.  We have two Turkies, nine mince pies and several kinds of cake, from fruit cake down to fried cake, and some as fine Alderberry Wine as ever need be. We are indebted to Mrs. Simons of Lansingburgh for the box of cakes and wine.

We got our dinner ready at 11 o'clock, but on account of one of our invited guests being on guard, we put off our dinner until 3 o'clock, supposing that we might as well be out of the world as out of fashion.

While we were waiting for our guest, the Col. and other officers gave us a call.  They looked very wishful at our table, but we could not see them, our passes having all been given out earlier in the day.  I do not know but that they would have been tempted to make a scout, but the moment they attempted to step over their bounds, the guard would bring his musket to a charge and cry halt, when they would give it up, and walk off, not however very cheerful. But we could not help it, for you know there is nothing like good discipline in a regiment, especially officers must be kept a little under, or in a short time they will think that they are above the privates and are their superiors. 

At the appointed time our guests arrived and after a few preliminary remarks as to the state of the weather and their health, we repaired to the table to pay our last respects to those venerable Turkies and mince pies. Remarks were made by Simons, Longstaff, and others as to the state of our country, when your humble servant was called upon to make some remarks.  Consequently, he arose and proposed very eloquently for their consideration - Whereas in the course of human events men have been known to get hungry, and taking into consideration that if we expect to walk through what is set before us, we had better get to work as we have got a long journey to travel.  Whereupon by unanimous consent we went to work, our friend Longstaff acting as surgeon and provided us with lots of the needful, and be it said for once that there was no shirking from duty, but on the contrary, each tried to lessen the load for his next friend. The wine was passed around as in days of old and many were the toasts that was offered for the ladies of Lansingburgh, the donors of the Turkies and pies and other friends that we have left behind.

Dinner being over, friend Simons favored us with Vivant America and we all joined in the chorus, making the tent ring.  At nine o'clock we took our tea and made a final disposition of the balance.  I believe we made a clean job of it, for there could be no remains found the next morning. At 11 o'clock in the evening the scene closed and the curtain dropped.  I will say that I have not set down to a better table in many a day.

Last Friday, our Regiment, accompanied by the 24th and three Regiments of Wadsworth's Brigade, headed by Gen'l Wadsworth, went out on a foraging expedition. We had with us one hundred wagons.  We went out as far as Fairfax, loaded our wagons with grain and hay and returned without any difficulty. Two Regiments of cavalry went out ahead and drove in the rebel pickets.

We are still at work wasting powder for Uncle Sam.  Saturday, we fired of forty blank cartridges a piece in a sham battle.  These sham battles are great affairs I can tell you.

Today Homer Brewer and Clinton Ford made me a visit.  I was glad to see them, as I always am any from home.  But I must close, hoping that you have all spent as Merry a Christmas as I have.

I remain Yours Truly, W.C.

Vital Records, Madison County, NY (1867)

 Oneida Dispatch, Oneida, NY, March 23, 1867

Marriages

WHITMAN - WILCOX:  In Clockville [Madison Co. NY], March 20, by Rev. Leander Hall, Allen S. Hall to Mary J. [Wilcox] daughter of A.C. Wilcox, Esq.

HEWIT - AVERY:  In Merrillsville [Franklin Co. NY], March 17, by the same, Nathaniel Hewit to Mrs. Elizabeth Avery.

ANDREWS - EGGLESTON:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY] March 6, by Rev. Mr. Ismond. Mr. George Andrews of Eaton [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Sarah Eggleston of Buffalo [Erie Co. NY].

TOPLIFF - WILBER:  In Morrisville [Madison Co. NY] March 12, by Rev. M.S. Hard, Mr. Elisha O. Topliff to Mrs. Frank B. Wilber, both of Morrisville.

BURDICK - SNOW:  In Poolville [Madison Co. NY], March 2 by Rev. L.V. Ismond, Mr. George A. Burdick to Miss Clara L. Snow both of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

CORMICK - HAUGHTON:  In Morrisville [Madison Co. NY] March 3 by Rev. E.D Reed, Mr. William Cormick of Baldwinsville [Onondaga Co. NY] to Miss Emogene A. Haughton of Eaton [Madison Co. NY].

FARGO - FOLAS:  In Manlius [Onondaga Co. NY] on the 5th inst by Rev. Mr Phillips, Mr. Henry Fargo to Miss Sarah Folas both of Chittenango [Madison Co. NY].

RANDALL - HUNT:  In DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY] on the 13th ult. by Rev. Mr. Brown, Albert Randall to Miss Vashti A. Hunt, all of DeRuyter.

ELLINWOOD - CUMMINGS:  In Augusta [Oneida Co. NY] on the 10th ult. at the residence of Mr. F. Cummings by Rev. T.H. McClenthan, Mr. Reuben A. Ellinwood to Miss Mary T. Cummings, all of Augusta.

HURLEY - DALEY:  In Knoxboro [Oneida Co. NY] at the M.E. parsonage by the same, Mr. John Hurley to Miss Annorah Daley all of Augusta [Oneida Co. NY].

GARDNER - CARPE$NTER:  In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY] on the 20th ult. by J.H, Stanbro, Esq. Mr. A.D. Gardner to Miss Adelia A. Carpenter both of Shed's Corners [Madison Co. NY].

CLARK - KING:  In Washington D.C. ont he 19th inst by Rev. T.R. Howlett, Mr. Frank B. Clark of Earlville [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Olivia J. King of Washington.

Deaths

HACKLEY:  In Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY], on the 10th inst. of consumption, Mr. J.C. Hackley aged 44 years.  He was a life long resident of Cazenovia and esteemed by all who knew him.

BREWSTER:  In Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY], on the 10th inst. Edwin Burr [Brewster] son of W.G. and Phebe Ann Brewster, aged 1 year and 9 months.

THOMPSON:  In Brookfield [Madison Co. NY] on the 17th inst. of brain fever, Miss Mary [Thompson] daughter of William Thompson, aged 14 years.

WITHEY:  In Oneida Valley [Oneida Co. NY], on the 15th inst. of consumption, Mr. James S. Withey, aged 36 years 11 mos.

BRIGHAM:  In Penn Yan [Yates Co. NY] on the 3d inst. Mary A. [Brigham] wife of Rev. S.P. Brigham, aged 34 years.

BISHOP:  In Greene, Chenango Co. [NY] on the 11th inst. Mr. Thomas Bishop, formerly of Morrisville [Madison Co. NY] aged 58 years.

RODENHURST:  In East Saginaw, Mich. Sarah A. [Rodenhurst] wife of Richard Rodenhurst and daughter of Hiram Knickerbocker of Pecksport, Madison Co. [NY] aged 35 years.

Vital Records, Broome (1838, 1874) & Chenango (1879) Counties, NY

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, February 1, 1838

Marriage 

On the 30th of January by the Rev. Mr. Haws, Mr. Ansel Phinney of Lee, Mass., to Miss Abigal Piersall of North Bainbridge, Chenango Co. [NY].

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, February 22, 1838

Marriage

Married in this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] on the 15th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Row, Mr. Lewis Seymour to Mrs. Aurelia Newel both of this village.

Union News, Union, NY, August 1, 1874

Deaths

In Union [Broome Co. NY] Thursday morning, July 30th, 1874, William J. Stephrnson aged 43 years.

In the town of Owego, Tioga Co., N.Y., july 23d, 1874, Albert R. Adriance in the 52d year of his age.

Union News, Union, NY, August 22, 1874

Marriages

At the residence of Mr. Rockwell, Esq. in this village [Union, Broome Co. NY] August 19th, 1874, by Rev. C.S. Dewing, Mr. Daniel J. Palmer to Miss Ida May Cafferty all of Union, N.Y.

In Milford, N.Y. [Otsego Co.], August 13, 1874, at the house of J. Shute, Esq. by Rev. H.N. Van Dusen, Mr. Walter R. Place of Maine, Broome County, N.Y. and Mrs. Emolene Wilcox of Milford.

Death

William Lees, a switchman in the employ of the Erie Railway Company at Owego was run over and killed on Sunday morning.  Lees was engaged in switching cars and jumped on a train while it was in motion.  His foot slipped and he fell, the wheels passing over his legs near the thighs.  The unfortunate man, after suffering terribly for a few hours, expired.

Union News, Union, NY, august 29, 1874

Death

In the town of Owego [Tioga Co. NY] Saturday, Aug. 22, 1874, Catharine [Davidson] wife of Josiah L. Davidson, in the 75th year of her age.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, December 13, 1879

Deaths

TAYLOR:  In San Francisco, Cal. Nov. 3, 1879, William C.H. [Taylor] son of William C. and Clementina Taylor and grandchild of Mr. and Mrs. William Edmonds, aged 7 months and three days.

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A fatal accident occurred near Clayville [Oneida Co. NY] this forenoon by which John Thomas was instantly killed.  At 8:50 this morning, a special train left Utica for New York.  On board were President Sloan, A.E. Reasoner, Superintendent of the Morris & Essex division, W.F. Halstead, General Superintendent of the main line, and employes to run the train, which was in charge of Conductor Collins, and was drawn by engine No. 7 with Engineer Kuhn at the throttle.  When near S.A. Millard's hoe factory about a quarter of a mile south of Clayville, a man was suddenly seen to appear on the track.  The engine was so close upon him that it was impossible to stop the train in time to save his life, and he was struck by the locomotive and instantly killed.  Coroner Hunt was immediately notified and an extra engine placed at his disposal, which speeded him swiftly to the scene of the accident, leaving here shortly after 11 o'clock.  He is holding an inquest as we go to press.

The victim of the accident was in the employ of Mr. Millaard as coachman and is said to have been driving some cattle across the track at the time.  There is no regular crossing at that point, only what is termed a "farmer's crossing."  Persons acquainted with the road in that locality will remember a sharp curve and a sidetrack.  On the sidetrack stood a number of cars that hid the main track from view. Thomas is said to have come suddenly upon the main track from behind those cars directly in front of the special train and no blame is attached to the engineer in the matter.  

We are also informed that every employee along the line had been notified by telegraph of the coming of the special and every possible precaution taken to avoid accidents.  It is also stated that Thomas had lived some time in the vicinity and was well acquainted with the dangerous curve, on account of which an engineer can see but little ways ahead, or a person on the track see an approaching train but a short distance.  From all particulars that it is possible to learn at the present writing, there does not seem to have been any neglect on the part of the Company, or any blame attaching to its employees.  Utica Observer, 9th

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY (1807, 1861, 1891)

 Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, July 2, 1807

Deaths

Died in Palatine [Montgomery Co. NY] on the 7th of June, inst. of the consumption, Joseph Simonds, Esq. Attorney at Law of Paris, Oneida County [NY], aged 30 years, a man eminent in his profession while living, and his death much lamented by community.

At New Haven [Oswego Co. NY], Mrs. Mary Wooster aged 78.  She was the widow of General David Wooster who fell in defense of his country, between Dadbury and Ridgefield during the American Revolution.  She was a daughter and only surviving child of Dr. Clapp, formerly president of Yale College.

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, July 16, 1807

Deaths

Died at East Hartford [Washington Co. NY] on the 17th inst. Mr. Seth Montague, formerly of Hadly (Mass.) aged 33.\

Suddenly, at Colchester [Delaware Co. NY] on the 15th inst. of an apoplectic fit, Mrs. Rhoda Buckley, wife of Maj. Roger Buckley, aged 56 years.

In Norway, Maine, on the 22d ult. by the split of a rock, William Stevens, aged 19.  When we cry peace and safety, many times destruction is nigh.  He had been fishing with two others. When they had finished, they retired to a large stone of about 27 feet in circumference to rest and refresh themselves, when shortly after, the stone burst and lodged a piece weighing about three tons, on Mr. S's hips, which inflicted a wound that baffled the aid of medicine.  He survived only five hours after sustaining the most excruciating pain.

In England, Admiral Sir Hyde Parker

At Delhi, Shaw Allum, King of Hindollan, aged 78 years, a lineal descendant of the house of Timur.  In the revolution of 1794, effected by Golland Mahomen, he was inhumanly deprived of his eyes.

At No. 4, Plattsburgh [Clinton Co. NY], on the afternoon of the 17 inst. was killed by the fall of a tree, Lieut John D. Fisk, in the 30th year of his age.  The public have to lament the loss of one of its most active and industrious citizens, the wife of the deceased a kind and tender husband, and his infant children their protector and guardian.  His many virtues endeared him to his family and gave him a conspicuous place in the affections of his country.  His usefulness is too well known to require any comment.  His memory, we trust, will not be entombed with his mortal body, but a generous public will revere his virtue when his flesh shall have mingled with its native dust.

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, july 2 3, 1807

Run Away

From the Subscriber, a boy named Comfort S. Nash, about thirteen years of age; had on a brown tow cloth frock, trowsers and vest.  Any person who will take up and return said boy to the subscriber shall receive six cents reward and no charges paid.  All persons are forbid harboring or trusting said boy.  David G. Coburn, Lisbon, Otsego County, July 7, 1807.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, December 25, 1861

Marriages

On the 18th inst. by Rev. J. Smith, Jr. Mr. Wiolliam F. Ford of Davenport [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Hellen J. Couse of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY].

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], Dec. 18th, by Rev. E.C. Hodge, Mr. Andrew Ferguson of Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Hellen Cooke of West Oneonta.

At Otsdawa [Otsego Co. NY], Dec. 19th, at the house of the bride's father, by Rev. M.C. Bronson, Eugene Thayer of Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] to Julia Brisack.

Deaths

In Bennettsville [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 16th, Mrs. Lois Northup wife of Mr. A.S. Northup, formerly of this place [Oneonta, Otsego Co. NY], after a long and painful illness which she bore with becoming patience and Christian resignation.  She has at last found rest.

Editor of Herald, Sir:  The Bloomville Mirror published in Delaware County [NY] contains an obituary notice of the death of George Alger of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], on the 1st of October last, stated that he died "by a blow willfully inflicted by a female with an iron bar."  I was his attending physician for a long time previous to his death and know that statement to be utterly false and evidently communicated opt the Mirror by some evil disposed person for the purpose of gratifying malice and causing sad pain and grief to a large and respectable circle of the mourning friends and relatives of the deceased.  I therefore deem it my duty not only to denounce the obituary statement scandalously false, but to give the cause of his death, which was a scrofulous disease, ending in lumbar abscess.  Please give this one insertion in your paper and oblige many friends and relatives of the deceased.  Samujel H. Case, M.D., Oneonta, Dec. 17, 1861.

Unadilla Times, Unadilla, NY, July 23, 1891

Birth

Born July 22, 1891, to Mr. and Mrs. J. Frank White, a daughter.

Marriages

Married at the residence of Mr. Will Telon in this village [Unadilla Otsego Co. NY], Sunday July 19, 1891, by Rev. C.E. Fay, Miss Emma Ida Brink of Otego [Otsego Co. NY] to William L. Jones of Masonville [Delaware Co. NY].

From the Oxford Times we learn that a very pleasant social event occurred at that village last week Tuesday evening, the occasion being the marriage of Miss Anna Van Wagenen to Mr. Jared C Estelo.  Mr. Estelo has many friends in this immediate vicinity who extend congratulations and who wish for the newly married couple a long life of matrimonial felicity.

Vital Records, Madison (1854) & Otsego (1873) Counties, NY

 Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, May 17, 1854

Marriages

In Eaton [Madison Co. NY] on the 3d inst. by William F. Bonney, Esq. Mr. Benjamin Crawford and Mrs. Philena Tennant both of the former place.

In Stockbridge, on Tuesday evening, the 16th inst., by Rev. E.G. Andrews, Rev. Richard Clark of Morrisville [Madison Co. NY] and Miss Mary A. Horton of the former place.

Death

In this village on Saturday night, the 13th inst., Mr. David Babcock, aged about 53 years.

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, May 24, 1854

Deaths

In the village of Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] May 16th, Dea. Elijah Buell aged 61 years.

In the village of Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] May 12th at the residence of her son, Mrs. Hannah Curry aged 77 years.

At his residence in the town of Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] May 17, Mr. Heman Bonney, aged 65 years.

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, May 31, 1854

Marriages

In this village [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY] on the 28th inst. by I. Leonard, D.D., Mr. John W. Leonard and Miss Sylvia R. Tucker both of New Bedford, Mass.

On the same day, by Rev. William Clarke, Mr. John Lockhan and Mrs. H. Burhans, all of this village [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY].

In West Eaton [Madison Co. NY] on the 18th inst. by Rev. George Bridge, Mr. Philo Walden and Miss Mary Jane Wellington both of that place.

Deaths

In this village [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY] on the 25th inst. at the residence of E.D. Loomis, Allen H. [DeClerco] oldest son of Hendrick and Aseneth DeClerco, aged 9 years.  He was an active, interesting child, ever thoughtful, beyond his years.  During the long and severe illness which terminated his existence, he bore all his sufferings patiently and often wearied himself with thoughts of the trouble he was giving those around him.  His friends can but mourn that they may cherish no more fond hopes of the good he might have accomplished.  Still, they realize that the kind God hath ordered it, and when they remember that their little Allie only slept to awaken amid the angels, they say, the Father loved him best.  It is well.

In Nelson [Madison Co. NY] on the 21st inst. Mrs. Ann E. Hearsey aged thirty years, widow of Sherman Hearsey and daughter of Asa Bumbus.

In this village [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY], on Sunday afternoon last, Mrs. Cynthia Babcock relict of David Babcock, aged 52 years.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, June 11, 1873

Marriages

June 3d, At the residence of Thomas Hall, Morris [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. L.B. Ford, Mr. A.P. Palmer of Beaver Meadow [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Nettie Hall.

June 3d, At the residence of Samuel Barrett, Morris [Otsego Co. NY], by Rev. W.H. Harrington, Mr. Albert A. Lull of New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss A.A. Barrett.

June 3d, At the residence of the bride's parents in Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. Henry brown, Mr. William F. Wanzer of Morris [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Emily K. Brown, daughter of John Brown, Esq.

June 3d, At New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] by Rev. W. Burnside, Mr. Charles D. Bingham to Miss Abigail A Wheeler both of Garrattsville [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

May 30th, In West Morris [Otsego Co. NY] Mr. Lewis, aged 73 years.

May 19th, In New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY] Mrs. Elsie Young wife of Robert Young in t he 66th year of her age.

June 2d, It Otego [Otsego Co. NY] Mrs. Emily Hale widow of Levi Hale in the 63d year of her age.

June 4th, At Deoevux, Fulton Co. N.Y., Mrs. Mary Bradt aged 94 years 3 months and 13 days.

On Saturday, May 31 st, Mr. Robert Beatty an old resident of this section, started from this village [Morris, Otsego Co. NY] for his farm on the west hill and had gone as far as the hill just this side of Mr. B.F. Waits residence, when the bottom board to the wagon slid against the horse starting it into a run down the hill, throwing Mr. Beatty out upon the ground and so injuring him that he remained in an insensible state till Tuesday when he expired.  We are informed that he was intoxicated to such an extent when he started form the village, that he had to be helped into the wagon and his untimely end speaks in accents that cannot be misunderstood; "touch not, taste not, handle not." The funeral services were held at St. Andrew's church on Thursday and his remains were followed to the grave by a large concourse of relatives and friends.  New Berlin Gazette, We learn that Mr. Beatty owned a farm in Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY] and some part of the time resided there.

When the Saturday five o'clock train (May 31) on the Albany & Susquehanna Railroad was between Unadilla and Well's Bridge, the engineer saw a boy lying on the track fast asleep.  Before he could stop, the engine passed over him, and he was cut to fragments.  The boy was about 10 years of age and had evidently been picking up coal on the track.  His name was John Bray.

Willard Smith was killed by the cars near the Midland Depot at Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], June 3d.  His horse became frightened, ran and tipped him out directly in front of a passing locomotive.  His body was completely severed in two.  The deceased was a well-known businessman, having always lived in that place.

News Item

The Delaware Republican says:  Cook St. John of Walton [Delaware Co. NY] will be one hundred years old the first day of June, and he is now in good health, with mind and memory but little impaired.  He is living with his oldest son, who is 75 years old.  His grandson is 51 years old, his great-grandson is 27 and his great-great-grandson is 7 years old, and each one is the oldest son of each successive family, and all are living within easy call of each other in the same village.  The descendants of the centenarian are one hundred and three living and including his two wives are thirty-two dead.

Vital Records, Cortland (1849) & Madison (1854) Counties, NY

 McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, May 3, 1849

Marriage

In Solon [Cortland Co. NY] at the Baptist Church on the 29th ult. by Rev. D. Pease, Mr. Olney Perkins to Miss Larinda Wheeler, all of Solon.

Deaths

In Hastings, Oswego Co. [NY] March 9th, Alvin [Pierce] son of William S. Pierce, aged 6 mo. and 2 days.

In the same place, 15th April, Fidelia L. [Pierce], daughter of the parents above named, aged 4 years 7 months 5 days.

On the 22 April, William H. [Pierce], son of the same persons, aged 2 years 9 months 18d.

On the 27 April, George G. [Pierce] aged 6y 6 months 9 days.

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Death of Dr. Roberts: We are pained to announce the death of this estimable and very promising young physician.  He was taken two or three days ago with the erysipelas of the head, which, assuming a most aggravating form, ended his life on Thursday night, at the Syracuse House [Onondaga Co. NY].

Dr. Roberts came to this city from Kelloggsville, Cayuga County [NY] and was very rapidly advancing in his profession and securing the esteem and respect of our citizens.  But in the midst of his usefulness and in the flower of his youth, the King of Terrors laid his icy scepter upon his breast, freezing the warm blood and stopping its pulsation forever.

We learn that Dr. Roberts' death was occasioned by touching a pimple on his forehead, which was bleeding with some matter from a vaccine, which he had just removed from the arm of a child.  The poison appeared to operate instantly, as in a few hours, he was delirious.  His remains were taken yesterday afternoon to Kelloggsville for interment.  

[Dr. Elisha Roberts, d. 27 April 1849, aged 30y; buried Kelloggsville Cemetery]

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, May 17, 1849

Marriages

In Preble, on the 9th inst. by Rev. N. Camp of Tully, Mr. Lieurendus B. Dodge of Cortlandville [Cortland Co. NY] and Miss Maria C. Warner of Preble.

Also, in the same place at the same time, by the same, Mr. Timothny Keen and Miss Susan A. Parks, both of Cortlandville. [Cortland Co. NY].

Deaths

In this village [McGrawville, Cortland Co. NY] on the 13th inst. Susan Austin wife of Asa Austin, aged 63 years.

The deceased was born in Leyden, Mass.  She had resided in this county upwards of fifty-three years, and in this village for six years.  

Her family and friends, while lamenting the melancholy providence which has thus afflicted them, mourn not without hope.  For since in life, she was a bright example of Christian excellence, in death they may surely hope that she has met with the Christian's reward.  Death is the Christian's triumphal hour, the hour of victory over the sorrows and temptations of this world.  It is only in such an hour that we can really perceive the excellence of that faith which has taught us that the Christian's death is the dawn of a purer and holier existence; the darkness of nature is pierced by a light from Heaven.

Then, while we mourn the melancholy stroke that has thus afflicted us, let us rejoice with Christian faith that the spirit that dwelt with us, dwells now in a better world.  Let us remember the virtues which crowned her life; her kindness as a friend; her affection as a wife and mother and strive to imitate an example, the remembrance of which in her, is so full of consolation.

"Bright view of death; a sleep and then a dream; / An awful night; a blest unfolding morn!"

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In this village [McGrawville, Cortland Co. NY] on the 16th inst. Mr. Harry McGraw in the 52d year of his age.

Mr. McGraw was one of the most active businessmen in this county and his loss will be deeply felt by all classes of our citizens.  He has been a resident of this town 47 years, having removed from Herkimer, his native county, while quite young.  For about 30 years past he has been engaged in memorable pursuits and has officiated as Postmaster 20 years.  In his business relations, he has sustained a reputation for uprightness, worthy of emulation.

This sudden and afflictive stroke of Providence was quite unlooked for by us.  It is only one short week since the deceased was moving amid the busy scenes of life, to all appearance in his usual health.  But he has sickened; he has died!; and, as we fully hope, has gone to share in the scenes of a blissful immortality.  Mr. McGraw has ever been a believer in the Christian religion, but he manifested, during his illness, regret that he had not publicly professed his faith and exerted greater religious influence over the circle in which he moved.  It must have been a source of great consolation to his family, and the many friends that visited him, to witness the support which he derived in his hour of trial from confidence reposed in his Redeemer. Both under the surgeon's knife and in the agony of death, God was his supporter and his hope.

The funeral will be attended in this Presbyterian Church tomorrow at 10 o'clock A.M.  It is the arrangement among the businessmen of the place to close their establishments during the funeral services.  

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, May 31, 1849

Death

In Homer village [Cortland Co. NY] on the 24th inst. Sally Wilcox wife of Silvenius Wilcox, aged 75 years.

The deceased was born in Sandersfield, Mass.  She had lived in Montgomery County [NY] upwards of fifty years.  For the last two years she had resided in Homer, and had suffered under paralysis, which she bore with patience and resignation. She often expressed her readiness to depart and be with Christ and the redeemed.

When about thirty years of age she obtained hope in Christ, which appeared to grow brighter in view of a blessed immortality.

" tis Finished; the conflict is past, / The heaven born spirit is fled, / Her wish is accomplished at last, / And now she's entombed with the dead.

The months of affliction are oer, / The days and the nights of distress, / We see her in anguish no more, / She has gained a happy release.

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, May 3, 1854

Marriage

In this village [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY] by Rev. L.L. Swan, Mr. P. Collier Wessel and Miss Martha Nichols both of Chittenango [Madison Co. NY].

Deaths

In this village [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY] on Monday morning last, Mrs. Mary Maria Ryan wife of John C. Ryan and daughter of Dr. Stephen M. Potter, aged 31 years.

In Fenner [Madison Co. NY], on the 24th ult. Col. John Needham aged 83 years.  Col. Needham emigrated to Fenner about 1796, when there was but three houses in what is now Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY].

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, May 10, 1854

Death

At Canastota, N.Y. [Madison Co. NY] on the 9th ult. Caroline [Brush] wife of Aaron B. Brush and daughter of Elisha and Betsey Beebe of Cannan, Conn., in her 52d year.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1880)

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 15, 1880

Marriages

In Mason City, Iowa, March 25th, by Rev. E.C. Moulton, Mr. Lucius A. Barnard and Miss Mary E. Doud all of that city.

In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] April 7th, by Rev. William R. Baldwin, Mr. Francis A. Brazee of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Clara E. Potter of Oxford.

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] April 11th, by Rev. H.N. Van Deusen, Mr. David W. Pike of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Alice M. Card of Smithville.

Deaths

In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] suddenly, April 2d, Mrs. Rose [Wedge] wife of George Wedge, aged 32 years.

In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] March 26th, of scarlet fever, Willis S. [Fling] son of Walter and Eliza Fling, aged 2 years, 2 months and 26 days.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] April 4th, Mrs. Susan B. Fifield of Waterloo [Seneca Co. NY], aged 92 years.

In Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY] April 4th, Mrs. Laura Shepard widow of Jerry Shepard, aged 76 years.

In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] March 27th, Mr. Abel Doolittle, aged 54 years.

In Barker [Chenango Co. NY] April 7th, Mrs. Sarah A. Stevens widow of the late Obediah Stevens in the 88th year of her age.

In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] April 1st, Miss Minnie Marvin aged 21 years.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] April 4th, Leroy [English] son of Merritt and Caroline English, aged 6 months.

At the residence of her daughter, Mrs. Samuel G. Courtney, High Bridge, N.Y. [Bronx, NYC], April 8th, Lydia Knapp Dickinson widow of Daniel S. Dickinson, aged 77 years.

Near Guilford Centre [Chenango Co. NY], April 8th of diptheria, Flora [Burlison] wife of Ervin Burlison.

In Brisbin [Chenango Co. NY] April 7th, Mary A. [Wells] only child of Albert and Margaret  Wells, aged 13 years.

Mrs. J.B. Kirkhuff of Afton [Chenango Co. NY] committed suicide on Sunday last by throwing herself into a well.  Her husband was a lawyer of that place.

News Items

Reminiscences of Fifty Years Ago

On the 7th of February in the year of Grace 1814, I first saw the light.  The place of my nativity was in the good old town of Greene [Chenango Co. NY] about 2-1/2 miles southwest of the village on the Genegantslet and near the old "Norton farm."  During my infancy my father bought 100 acres of land on the river, one-half mile below the village and there was where my earliest recollections commence.  The farm was entirely new and heavily timbered, except perhaps an acre or two, and a man of less energy than my father would have hesitated long before undertaking the Herculean task of clearing up, single handed, a farm thickly covered (as was that portion of it lying on the river) with gigantic hemlocks. The boys, two of whom were older than myself, were still too young to be of any service.  But being young and hopeful, and possessing in my now sainted mother, "Heaven's best gift to man," he, nothing daunted, commenced operations. The result was that before I left home at the age of 16, he had under cultivation, perhaps 60 acres of as good land as could be found in the Chenango Valley.  He had also built a substantial house 18x18 with an L attached and a good barn 30x40 feet, both of which I believe are still standing.  Besides this, he had an excellent young apple orchard, just coming into bearing.  At the time of my leaving home to serve the balance of my minority as an apprentice, my two older brothers had already gone from under the dear old rooftree, thus leaving my father still without help, except from a young brother of 14.

But, never discouraged, he labored on, till failing health and a broken-down constitution compelled him to dispose of his farm and pursue one requiring less labor.  He lived but two or three years after leaving this lovely farm.  Consumption had long contended for the mastery with his naturally robust constitution, and at last, in May 1832, he was called to his reward. Before succumbing, however, to the fell destroyer, he had the satisfaction of knowing that by the labor of his own hands, he had created, as it were, one of the most delightful homesteads in that delightful valley.

Here, Messrs. Editors, was where I spent my happy childhood.  Here was where occurred a thousand and one little incidents in my own experience and that of my family and associates which, though trifling in themselves, yet go to make up a series of events, which I love to recall.

It is my purpose (with your approval Messrs. Editors) in perhaps two or three future letters, to recall some of these incidents of half a century ago, hoping that a few, at least of your readers may find something that will remind them of the "Long, long ago."

If I succeed in giving my old friends a tithe of the pleasure I have enjoyed in merely seeing their names in the American I shall feel amply repaid.  Or, if they or others, should peruse these random sketches with half the pleasure with which I write them, I shall not have striven in vain.

There are still living in Greene some of my old schoolmates, by whom I am perhaps long since forgotten, but who are still dear to my memory.  Others, and by far the larger number, perhaps, have crossed the flood.  yet a little while and we too shall have passed away.  Let us therefore try while here to contribute a trifle to the enjoyment of those whom we shall so soon leave behind us.  

Lewis Hoyt, Hammonton, N.J., April 8, 1880

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In his large family of boarders of all classes, he has one who was one hundred years old on Thursday last.  His name is William Lavee, who was born in New London County, Conn., April 1, 1780, and settled in this county in 1814 where he has since resided a period of sixty-six years. By trade he was a shoemaker, but he at one time owned and cultivated a farm in the town of Preston [Chenango Co. NY].  In his old age, reverses came upon him, and he was reduced to want, at last becoming an inmate of the asylum for the poor.  He early embraced the cause of Christ and all these years he has lived an exemplary Christian.  His mental faculties he retains to a remarkable degree.

Mr. Leach has now about one hundred and thirty boarders [Chenango County Poor House, Preston, NY] and the aggregate of the ages of the thirty between 70 and 100 is 2,288 years; of the next twenty-eight, between 60 and 70, they aggregate is 1,797 years.  During these five years, fifty-six have died, of these the ages of twenty-nine aggregated 2,337 years and of the remaining twenty-seven, 1,344 years.  Union