Vital Records, Otsego (1823), Chenango (1876) Counties, NY

 Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, July 1, 1823

Marriage

In Danube [Herkimer Co. NY], on the 5th inst. by the Rev. Aaron Putnam, Mr. Evan Cotes of Springfield [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Laurania Hawskins of the former place.

Death

In this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on Saturday morning last, Mr. Josiah Grout late of Rome, Oneida Co. [NY] aged about 26 years.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, July 22, 1823

Death

Died in this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on Wednesday last, Mr. Ebenezer Granger, aged 66.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, August 5, 1823

Marriage

Married, at Penn-Yan, Yates County [NY] on the 19th ult. Mr. Eben Smith, merchant, of that place, to Miss Eliza Ellsworth.

Death

In Sullivan, Madison County [NY], on the 17th ult, the widow Martha Page, aged 92 years, formerly of North Branford, Connecticut, where she has left numerous connections and friends, as well as in this state.  Mrs. Page had her senses to her last moments, has been a professor of religion for 70 years, and appeared to have died in the full belief of a resurrection and of the Saint's final perseverance in the world to come.  Her funeral was attended in the village of Chittenango, by a great number of her kindred and of the respectable inhabitants of said village. an appropriate sermon was delivered by the Rev. Mr. Olds, of Lenox, from 2d Corinthians, 5, 1  "For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, a house not made with hands eternal in the heavens."

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, August 12, 1823

Death

At Manlius, Onondaga County [NY] on the 4th instant, after a few days' illness, Capt. James Farquaharson of this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY], aged about 55 years.  Mr. F. was on his return to his family in this town, when taken ill.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, August 19, 1823

Marriage

At Indianapolis, Indiana, on the 11th of July last, Dr. H.G.L. Dunlap formerly of this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Geogiana McDougal.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, August 26, 1823

Deaths

In Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] on Thursday last, Thomas Shankland, Esq. aged 63 years.

In the city of Albany [Albany Co. NY], suddenly, on the 21st inst. Mr. John Cook, State librarian and proprietor of the city reading rooms.  To a life of probity and respectability, Mr. Cook added that of a most useful and obliging citizen. His death is a severe deprivation to his family and a general loss to the public.  Argus

New Berlin Gazette, New Berlin, NY, December 23, 1876

Marriages

CHASE - BLISS:  In Springfield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 13th inst. at the house of Horace Slyter, Esq. Mr. L.H. Chase of Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY] and Miss E.G. Bliss of Schuyler's Lake [Otsego Co. NY].

HORTON - VAN SCHOICK: In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 20th, 1876 by Rev. N.J. Hawley, Mr. Cyrus Horton of Montrose, Pa and Mrs. Van Schoick of New Berlin, N.Y.

Death

Horace (Plim) Thompson died suddenly last Wednesday night of strangulation from bleeding at the lungs.  He was sitting in a chair at Chamberlain's store at about 6 o'clock in the evening, when he commenced coughing, said he was bleeding and expired immediately. He was 57 years old, belonged to a thrifty family, was a master mechanic, and proprietor of the Norwich Foundry [Chenango Co. NY]

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1879)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, October 23, 1879

Marriages

The Minneapolis Tribune has a pleasant paragraph on the ninth anniversary wedding day of J.H. McDermott and wife which occurred in that city on the 3d inst. Several friends gathered at their residence in the evening, when a finely gotten up repast was disposed of, congratulatory remarks were made, and the night spent in a most enjoyable manner generally.  "Mac" will be remembered by friends in this section as a former popular conductor on the Midland, and he now holds the responsible position of Yardmaster of the Minneapolis and St. Louis Railroad.

Deaths

Miss Agnes Harris of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] while visiting the family of Rev. Mr. Loveridge, was taken very sick with diphtheria, which resulted fatally after an illness of only a few days.  Her remains were taken to Norwich on Tuesday for interment.  She had been in our village [Unadilla, Otsego Co. NY] about two weeks and had made many friends among the young people, and her untimely death has cast a shadow over our village - a gloom in the hearts of her young friends that cannot be erased in a long time.  She was a sister of Miss Mary Harris, for several years a teacher in the Bainbridge Academy.

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Rev. Gideon Babcock Perry, D.D., M.D. died at his residence Hopkinsville, Ky September 29, 1879 in his 79th year and was buried from Grace Episcopal Church of which he was rector in this city since 1867, till of late for some time past having been altogether incapacitated from duty by reason of continued and extreme sickness.

The Rev. Dr. Perry was a native of South Kingston, R.I. and particular interest may be particularly noted of the old Perry stock as the last surviving kinsman, contemporary of the battle of Lake Erie's hero Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry.  Their fathers being brothers and the sons born on the same homestead, the two were brought together.  Thus, boy relatives attached to each other from the first, the incipient navy commander in fact at one time so won upon his younger kinsman, that but for parental interference, he had joined him to the American Marine in this country's service, mere youth as he was, yet full of the "fire of 76."  To this Dr. Perry made pointed reference when asked to act as he did some score of years since, Chaplin at the "Perry Statue Inauguration," Cleveland, Ohio with the Hon. George Bancroft, historian, orator of the day.

To resume, however, home persuasions prevailed, and the subject of this sketch having duly prepared, was sent to Hamilton College, New York [Madison Co.].  After his graduation and theological course, as minister taking charge at Brookfield, N.Y. [Madison Co.], in 1823, The Rev. Perry married Miss Abby Brown, youngest daughter of Nathan Stewart, Esq. of that place.  In 1824 Dr. Perry was called to the broader field of Stonington borough, Conn. and officiated there till in 1827, assuming the important charge to which he was chosen in New Bedford, Mass, and thence, three years later to the old Spruce Street Church, Philadelphia, Pa., retiring from his ministry there in 1834, on account of impaired health and seeking the West.

Renewing his labors in 1837, having removed to Canton, Ill. where a place of worship was established by him, the Rev. Dr. Perry successively ministered also at Alton, Ill. for a number of years and in 1843, was recalled to Philadelphia, remaining in that city till taking residence in the diocese of Ohio.  Admitted to orders by the Bishop in 1846, the Rev Dr. took charge of St. Paul's Parish, Cleveland O., and as its first rector, rebuilding the Church he had just but lost by fire, was in office some ten years up to 1854, from there officiating at Grace Church in the same city, till 1857 when the Rev. Dr. Perry had organized under him as pastor St. James' parish of Cleveland, also now one of its attractive churches of over twenty odd years' steady growth and prominence. As next called to Natchez, Miss, in 1858, he became the rector of Trinity Church and resided there as such till his resignation in 1866, the year subsequent to accepting a call from Grace church, Hopkinsville, Ky. his last parochial charge and place of decease.

More than fifty years in the Christian ministry, it is impossible to enumerate the host of services and offices, baptisms, communions, marriages, burials and the like by him rendered in over half a century's vigorous occupation.  By those tied to him in friendship, as to thousands throughout the land from Massachusetts to Mississippi and Pennsylvania to Missouri, who met and heard him with admiration, the Rev. Dr. Perry was known as a man of marked power, religious culture and ability.  It was the expression of Bishop McIlvaine, himself eminent for golden speech and graceful mien, that the Rev. Dr. Perry, as a natural orator and logician to whom he accorded most hearty attention, was rarely excelled, if equaled.  But few of its divines stood higher in the church, especially for pulpit eloquence, clear commanding gospel exposition and forensic force and notwithstanding his deafness, for energy and influence in almost every variety of work.  He was sought and esteemed for these, aside from love and devotion to him for his many manly virtues in a long, busy life, not devoid of opposition at times befalling many another, and above all one of so positive character for good with executive will that feared not the face of man, nor mere opinion of multitude.  

As noteworthy, at the farewell service, April 19th, 1874 (ere occupying the new magnificent structure) of St. Paul's Church, Cleveland, Ohio, after its first quarter century's existence, the Rev. Dr. Perry was present from a distant diocese and preached the last sermon, as he had the first, within its sacred walls, at the church's express request of its first pastor.  It is instanced as one of the finest of the veteran rector's most interesting efforts so many came to hear and then for the last time in his former home parish of the Forest city.  In addition to customary first degrees, those of D.D. and L.L.D. were conferred upon him by the respective colleges and after due course of study and lectures in medicine and surgery, that of M.D. from Jefferson college, Philadelphia.  Dr. Perry for some years practicing both with success and distinction.

The Masonic Mirror long published in Philadelphia, contains discourses from him, while as Knight Templar he gave the address upon occasions of assembly by the Order in Ohio and for other Masonic bodies at intervals in New England and various places with great acceptability.  Among his most popular efforts were those at institutions of learning and before literary societies, by members of which he was elected to honorary membership and for his interest in behalf of education ever an active work, public spirited and practical in his view.  His life in Fino, was full of earnest for the common good. Through fifty-six mature, eventful years a kind husband, the exemplary citizen, loving father, true man, pastor and friend, pursued his way, and kept the Faith. At his obsequies the Priest of the church (Rev Charles Morris), with him almost daily during final illness, testified to his triumphant death.  "A true soldier of the Cross - I believe if ever one was most fully prepared to meet his Maker and find rest in the bosom of God our Saviour it is the beloved and reverend brother whose form is in the casket before us!"

The attendance was crowded at the funeral services in the Parish Church, which was heavily draped about the chancel and columns and the altar, lectern and pulpit arranged with choice floral designs and emblems appropriate to the high office of the venerable deceased. During the hymns "Asleep in Jesus," and "How firm a foundation, ye Saints of the Lord," and anthems chanted, and at the eulogy, the congregation was visibly affected. Every class and denomination of people were present, a tribute of unfeigned regret for the loss that was felt. The bearers, ten in number, from the best members of the parish and large community, friends, neighbors, and brethren, with their own hands prepared the last rites of the Christian sepulture. At the grave during the committal office, a rainbow of singular beauty appeared in the sunny sky, and, overarching, remained so, resplendent, till, after the concluding services, the cortege left the cemetery.

The Rev. Dr. Perry leaves as sincere mourners, a widow and three children; the Rev. Henry C. Perry of the city Episcopal clergy, Chicago, and a son and daughter residing in Hopkinsville, with their surviving parent.

News Item

Fifty years ago, there were few better-known families in Northern Chenango than those of Chester and George Hammond of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY].  They came to the town in 1808 from the little town of Bolton, Tolland County, Ct. about fifteen miles east of Hartford.  Chester was a farmer, and George a woolen manufacturer whose carding machine and manufacturing establishment was on the south side of Pleasant Brook in Smyrna village.  Such establishments are now almost unknown in the country and this one long since disappeared.  Half a century ago they were common.  The oldest in the town was started by Joseph Collins, father of Levi B. Collins, Esq., in the north part of the town, and there were others two and three miles west of the village, one operated by Montgomery Percival and another at a later day by William Sprague, at Upperville [Chenango Co. NY].

George Hammond buried a number of his children in Smyrna and then followed the others who removed to Sweden and Bergen.  He long since passed away and only one son and one daughter survive; Lemuel who lives in Clarendon, Orleans County [NY] and Mrs. Joseph Staples, of Sweden, Monroe County [NY].

Chester Hannond lived upon the hill southeast of the village and from his residence looking north could be seen the narrow valley of Pleasant Brook and the broader and more extensive flats upon the Chenango towards Earlville and Hamilton.  His house and farm were in full view from the village, and while more than half a century has passed away, I remember how delighted were my boy eyes when they looked across the little valley to Deacon Hammond's home.  I suppose his stately form, his godly life and example had something to do with the impressions made upon me, and I used to look over to the spot as almost holy ground and in passing it, as I sometimes did, feel something akin to reverence even for the place, and as for its noble proprietor, I used to think he could not be far from heaven, and this in spite of the fact that the information he felt it his duty to give of my going in swimming on Sunday, between the forenoon and afternoon service, cost me the very last whipping I receive3d from my father.  Dea. Hammond largely aided in building the Congregational "meetinghouse" in Smyrna, was elected a deacon on the organization of the church and continued in the office until his removal to Michigan in 1835.

On Tuesday, October 7th, the oldest child of Deacon Hammond died near Mumford, Monroe County [NY] at the ripe age of seventy-seven.  Many of the older class of people in Smyrna will remember Anna M. Hammond [Brown], although it is forty-six years since she was married to Gen. Theron Brown and went with him to his home in Wheatland, where she died.  It was the sad privilege of the writer to be at the funeral on the 10th.  It took place where all her married life was spent upon an eminence as sightly as that where she lived in her early years and was largely attended by people from Wheatland and Caledonia.  Her oldest brother, Hon. Charles G. Hammond, of Chicago, who was at the meeting of the America Board in Syracuse, when her death took place, was present, together with her two sons and two stepsons and their families. The services were conducted by Rev. Mr. Taylor of Leroy and the remains interred in the Baptist church cemetery where she had long been a worshiper.

Mrs. Brown suffered a fracture of her hip about ten weeks previous to her death and was a great sufferer until death called her away.  From very early life she had been a devoted Christian and throughout the community where her later years were passed, she was universally esteemed.  "The memory of the just is blessed."

In the vicinity where Mrs. Brown so long resided, quite a number of Smyrna people have lived.  Noah and Lewis Hutchinson resided near Mumford, but I do not know that any of their families are now living.  Nathan Sutliff died at Mumford, many years ago, but his remains were taken to Sherburne Hill for interment by the side of his wife.  A daughter, Mrs. Harmon, also resided there, but died in Tennessee.  Mr. Sutliff's only surviving child, Mrs. Lusk, who is now entirely blind, is visiting in Smyrna.  The late Hollom Hutchinson, who represented Livingston County in the Assembly in 1835, was also from Smyrna. Ephraim Finch of Wheatland, married a sister of Hollom Hutchinson, and his son married the widow of Thomas Milner, of Norwich - a daughter of the late Harvey Talcott, of Smyrna.

S.P.A.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1879)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, October 23, 1879

Marriages

SCOTT - SHERMAN:  At the residence of H.C. Rockwell, Rockwell's Mills [Chenango Co. NY], Oct. 21st, by Rev. T.P. Halstead, Mr. Tracy O. Scott of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Alice A. Sherman of the former place.

SCOTT - ROBINSON:  In South Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 16th by Rev. R.M. Duff, Warren Scott, M.D. of Traer, Iowa, to Miss Emogene Robinson, daughter of S.M. Robinson, Esq.

DARLING - ADAMS:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 15th, by Rev. H.N. Payne, Mr. Nelson W.D Darling of Preston [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Cora B. Adams of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY].

MOSHER - BENEDICT:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 8th, by Rev. H.N. Van Deusen, Mr. George H. Mosher to Miss Clara M. Benedict, both of Smithville.

SMITH COOK:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 12th, by Rev. H.N. Van Deusen, Mr. Arthur W Smith of Union [Broome Co. NY] to Miss Sarah Cook of Greene.

SANFORD - JACKSON:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 8th by Rev. A.W. Hood, Mr. George W Sanford of Triangle [Broome Co. NY] to Miss Almira M. Jackson of Greene.

WEEKS - HYDE:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 8th, by Rev. A.W. Cornell Mr. Lewis A. Weeks to Miss Lena Florence Hyde all of Afton.

SYMONDS - AUSTEN:  Oct. 14th 1879, on the platform of the depot at the Tunnel Station [Broome Co. NY] by Rev. A.F. Harding, Mr. George Symonds of South Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] to Mrs. Sarah M. Austen of Colesville, Broome County (NY].

GREEN - SPAULDING:  In Brookfield [Madison Co. NY] Sept. 30th, by Rev. J.M. Todd, Mr. William M. Green of Poolville [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Addie H. Spaulding of Columbus [Chenango Co. NY]

HARVEY - RAYMOND:  In South Otselic [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 7th, by Rev. H.C. Leach, Mr. Emmett Harvey of Georgetown [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Addie Raymond of Otselic.

DELEVAN - GRIFFITH:  In Marathon, Oct. 8th, by Rev. J.H. Harris, Mr. Adelbert Delavan of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY] to Miss Mary Griffith of Marathon [Cortland Co. NY]

Deaths

BUELL:  In King Settlement [Chenango Co. NY], Oct. 21st, after a brief illness of pleuro pneumonia, Julia [Buell] wife of Simon Buell, aged 55 years.  Funeral at her late residence on Friday at 11 A.M.

CLARK:  Killed by the cars, near this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on Friday evening, Oct. 17th, Mr. Abram Clark aged 61 years.

RILEY:  In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 11th Emily [Riley] wife of John Riley, aged 56 years.

GALLUP:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 15th, Mr. R.M. Gallup aged 71 years.

NICHOLS:  At the residence of his brother, Erastus Nichols, in Lincklaen Centre [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 13th of apoplexy, Mr. Estrus P. Nichols of Albion, Wisconsin, formerly of Lincklaen, aged 65 years.

SIONDS:  In Baltimore, Md., Sept 28th Mr. John L. Simonds aged 45 years, formerly of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY].

HOYT:  In Middleport, N.Y. [Niagara Co.], Oct. 9th, Mrs. E. Louisa Hoyt, aged 38 years and 9 months, wife of William D Hoyt, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

ALLYN:  In Potterville, Bradford Co. Pa., Oct. 2d Mr. J. Billings Allyn aged 61 years and 2 months, formerly of Mcdonough [Chenango Co. NY].

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Death on the Rail

A fatal railroad accident occurred on the Midland, about four miles south of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], a few minutes before six o'clock on Friday evening last.  A gang of bridge men, consisting of Martin Adams, John Flynn, Richard Allen and Abram Clark, were returning on a hand car from their work on the Oxford Trestle and when about a mile and a half this side of Lyon Brook bridge, the whistle of the excursion train returning from New York was heard and the train was seen rounding the curve some thirty rods behind them.  Flynn and Allen at once jumped form the car and rolled down the bank, while Foreman Adams attempted to get Clark from his seat on the forward end of the car, but was compelled to leave him, having barely time to leap and save his own life.  In the meantime efforts were being made on the train to check its speed, but as it consisted of four well filled coaches and the grade being heavy, this was almost useless.  When the car was struck, Clark was thrown several feet in the air, and in falling his head struck the end of a tie, crushing the back of his skull in a horrid manner, the brains oozing upon the ground.  One of his legs was also badly broken and his death was instantaneous.  The train was stopped, the body brought to the depot and an inquest held by Coroner Avery. Conductor Coburn and engineer Finch, of the excursion train, Superintendent Laupher, Train Dispatcher Hankins, John Flynn and Martin Adams, were sworn and the jury found that Clark "came to his death by a wound received on the back of the head, by a collision between the locomotive of an excursion train and a hand car upon which he was riding."

Deceased came to this village [Norwich], from Newark, N.J. about the year 1853, and worked for Goodrich & Brown, at silver plating, three years, and for E.&E.L. Brown, their successors in business, thirteen years, and what is a little remarkable, during the thirteen years he was in the employ of the last named firm, he lost but three days and that on account of sickness.  For some years past he has worked as a laborer, on the railroads and elsewhere and was a faithful, hard-working man, well-disposed quiet and inoffensive in his manner. A widow and five children - two sons and three daughters - survive him.  His funeral was held at the residence of his son-in-law, Henry C. Hughson on Sunday afternoon.  His age was sixty-one years.

News Item

The following soldier's tribute to Rev. Samuel Scoville by a member of the 114th Regiment, written directly after he left Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], with his family for his new field of labor, was unavoidably crowded out of our last week's issue by the pressure upon our columns.  It has lost nothing by standing over and will be read with interest by the multitude of Mr. Scoville's friends.  (Editor)

Now that everybody, as it would seem, have voiced their praises, their regrets and sorrows, and now that the dearest of pastors has gone, so that he will not be likely to feel "like a first class funeral," or know what it is to be "an unresisting corpse" anymore, by anything further that might be said, I desire to give expression to a sentiment which is shared by a large and not unimportant class in whose behalf, I am sorry to say, not a word has been publicly uttered among all the many good things that have been said - I refer to the veteran soldiers.

Mr. Scoville's residence in Norwich runs nearly parallel with the writer's - that is, in respect to time.  Beyond that, the analogy ends.  I remember his coming to this place, an enthusiastic young man fresh with college honors and some theology in his brain, whose advent, it appeared to me, was fortunate to the church and society for which he came to minister, and to the community at large, if not to himself.  It was my fortune to hear some of his first sermons preached in a small apartment in the old furniture building on South Broad Street, when I discovered, or thought I did, traits and qualifications for a minister, which in the end would tell.  How nearly the prediction then or subsequently made upon a certain occasion, when the writer chanced to be present, when the young preacher was up for discussion and when some of the elders "wagged their heads," has been verified, I leave for those to answer who used to sit upon the straggling benches in the little room in Close's building, or on the naked seats in Concert Hall, who were present Sunday evening in that elegant edifice, with its every appointment the very height of perfection and who were of that vast assemblage who came to do homage to the retiring pastor.

Soon the sound of battle from afar, and the call for more men took me with hundreds of the bravest and best of the community to the front, and for nearly three years I never saw Mr. Scoville's face again.  Although lost to sight he was not lost to sense. The boys of the army, and particularly of the one hundred and Fourteenth Regiment read the local newspapers as never before, till the print became blurred and the worn and wrinkled sheets almost as black as the camp kettles in which they cooked their mess and knew what was going on at home, who were their friends and sympathizers in the many dangers and hardships to which they were exposed.

Mr. Scoville had spoken noble words for our dear dead Colonel, borne home upon his shield from that pen of fearful slaughter at Port Hudson, three thousand miles away, to be buried in this beautiful valley and among his kindred.  We all loved him for that.  He had spoken noble works for others, brought home to sleep in the graves of their fathers, beside their loved ones, or who had been hid away upon the battlefield, laid to rest in hospital grounds, or borne from the loathsome prison cell. We all loved him for that.  He had spoken earnest, encouraging, patriotic words for the living, during those times which tried men's souls. We all loved and honored him for that.

Mr. Scoville was among the first and foremost to welcome our noble Regiment, when, with thinned ranks, its bronzed and scarred veterans came back one lovely June day fourteen years ago, bearing aloft their tattered, bullet-riddled banners, begrimed with the smoke and dust of battle, and we have never forgotten him for that.  My first genuine acquaintance with Mr. Scoville - having met only casually before - and the first time I ever felt the warm pressure of his friendly hand, was when introduced to him at the table of the banquet prepared by the patriotic ladies of Norwich on the occasion of that glad "Welcome Home." There may have been - I know there was - much in the magnitude and thronging memories of the event to produce and intensify impression.  Sure it was, while the hands and thoughts of noble women were busy serving their royal feast, the genial opened-souled pastor took possession of many a veteran's heart.  In one, verily, the possession having never been disputed, he "Holds the fort."

Not by members of the 114th Regiment alone, but by the soldier element of society generally, wherever he is known, is Mr. Scoville especially regarded as "The Soldier's Friend."  He will be missed at our Reunions, on Decoration Day occasions, at the last sad rites at the soldier's grave - everywhere, save in the affections of the people.  For his good cheer, his many kind offices of charity and mercy, beautiful, profuse and varied as the leaves of Autumn, will be the preacher who served eighteen years in Norwich, be long and gratefully remembered.

H.H.B. (Dr. Harrison H. Beecher)

Vital Records, Madison County, NY (1867)

 Oneida Dispatch, Oneida, NY, March 30, 1867

Marriages

BUMPUS - LUMBARD:  March 27th, 1867, at the National Hotel, By Rev. David McFarland, of Oneida, Mr. Augustus H. Bumpus to Miss Eliza M. Lumbard, both of Fenner, N.Y. [Madison Co.].

WHITMAN - WILCOX:  In Clockville [Madison Co. NY] on the 20th inst. at the residence of the bride's father, by Rev. Leander Hall, Mr. Allen S. Whitman and Miss Mary Wilcox all of Clockville.

SHAPLEY - STEWART:  At the residence of the bride's father in Georgetown [Madison Co. NY], March 14th, 1867, by Rev. James H. Sage, Mr. Spencer B. Shapley of Lebanon [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Dora C. Stewart.

WARD - COOK: Thursday, March 21st, 1867, at the residence of the bride's mother, by the Rev A.G. Fargo, Waulatean B. Ward of Madison, N.Y. [Madison Co.] to Miss Lottie A. Cook of Bouckville, N.Y. [Madison Co.].

VEDDER - MAINE:  In Perryville [Madison Co. NY], March 29th, 1867, by Rev. E.F. Maine of Walworth, Mr. Horatio K. Vedder of Oppenheim [Fulton Co. NY] to Miss Marion A.Maine of Perryville.

BARLOW - SHERWOOD: On March 21, 1867, by Rev. Wm. Reddy, Mr. William Barlow of Canaseraga [Allegany Co. NY] to Mrs. Jane Ann Sherwood of Oneida Valley.

HUNT - TUTTLE:  In Georgetown [Madison Co. NY] on the 6th inst. Mr. George H. Hunt of DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY] and Miss Dorlesca Tuttle of Georgetown.

BROWN - BACON:  In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY] on the 12th inst. Mr. George Brown and Mary E. Bacon, all of Otselic. 

McCARTNEY - MIX:  In Sangerfield [Oneida Co. NY] on the 6th inst. by the Rev. C. Morgan, Mr. John McCartney and Miss Ellen C. Mix.

MORTON - WHEELER:  In Georgetown [Madison Co. NY] on the 6th inst. by Rev. Mr. Brooks, Mr. Reuben Morton of Herkimer Co. [NY] and Miss Mary Wheeler of Otselic [Chenango Co. NY].

The relatives and friends of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Clark of Eaton [Madison Co. NY] met at their residence on Wednesday evening, the 20th inst. to celebrate their twenty-fifth marriage anniversary.  It was a pleasant and happy gathering.  Mr. and Mrs. Clark were the recipients of numerous handsome and appropriate presents, amounting in value to $175.  There were about sixty guests present, and they all gathered round a table filled with the good things the worthy hostess knows so well how to prepare.  All united in doing these good things ample justice. Then followed music, song and dancing, till the small hours of the night came round, and admonished all to seek their homes.  And thus, the happy company broke up, pleased and highly gratified with the evening's entertainment and hoping long life may bless the host and hostess, whose house has always been the welcome, cordial home of all callers, whether rich or poor.  that they might live to enjoy their golden wedding, when twenty-five more years have rolled away, was the earnest wish of all.

Deaths

COPPINS:  In DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY], March 20th, George Coppins aged 21 years 10 months and 20 days.

CROSS:  In Georgetown [Madison Co. NY]m, on the 9th inst., Mrs. Betsey Cross aged 76 years

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DENISON:  In Oneida [Madison Co. NY] March 23, at the residence of her mother, Mrs. N.B. Wilbur, Mrs. Mary W. Denison, wife of Lyman Denison, Esq. of New York, aged 40 years.

No brief obituary notice can do justice to the memory of one who possessed such a rare combination of personal beauty with exquisite culture of mind and heart.  Whether we refer to her kind and gentle spirit, by which she won the affection of all who knew her, to intellectual gifts, her perfect taste and fine execution in painting and music, by which she challenged their admiration, or her ardent childish love for all things beautiful in nature, by which the world of beauty in sight and sound was open to the sensitive soul, or to that Christian faith which consecrated and sanctified there gifts and graces, we are embarrassed by the limits of this notice.  In the prime of her life and beauty she fell a victim to disease.  For several years she bravely resisted its inroad, receiving all the loving care which the devoted ministry of her loving family could render, but it becoming evident the past winter that she was failing, she left the city for the quiet repose of the country, to die in her mother's house.  There, in perfect quiet and peace, grateful as a child for every kindness shown her, looking to her Savior with that entire reliance which removed all fear or dread of death, she lay for several weeks, waiting the summons to depart.  And when, in the early watch her Savior called, she, asking for her husband and mother, smiled sweetly saying:

"So fades a summer cloud away; / So sinks the gale when storms are o'er; / So gently shuts the eye of day; / So dies a wave along the shore."

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1879, 1880)

 Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, December 20, 1879

Marriage

PALMER - SIMMS:  At the residence of the bride's parents in Earlville [Madison Co. NY], on the 17th inst. by Rev. G.R. Burnside, Mr. Henry E. Palmer of Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY] and Miss Kate A. Simms of the former place.

One of the most pleasant and fascinating of all parties - a wedding party - occurred in Earlville last Wednesday, when Mr. Henry E. Palmer of Syracuse led to the altar Miss Kate A. Simms, one of Earlville's most charming belles.  There was a very large gathering of the friends of the bride, and the bridal presents were numerous and elegant.  Miss Ella Simms, sister of the bride, was bridesmaid and A.B. Coats filled the station of groom's best man. The reception was a brilliant affair and thoroughly enjoyed by the many guests who united in wishing the happy couple a happy and prosperous voyage.

Masonville, Delaware Co. NY: There has been no mention in the Republican of the marriage of Henry C. Bartlett and Nettie E Thatcher.  they were married at the residence of the bride, by Rev. HN. Ripley, Dec. 17th.

Deaths

SPENCER:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY] on the 15th inst., Mr. John Spencer, aged 48 years.

McINTYRE:  At New York Mills, Oneida County [NY] on the 11th inst. James H. McIntyre, son of James McIntyre of this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], aged 22 years.  His remains were brought to this pace for interment.  Funeral services were held in the M.E. Church.  Rev. D. Ballou of Utica preached the discourse.

LAMB:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] ont he 16th inst., Mr. Prentice D. Lambb aged 43 years.

FISH:  Norwich, Chenango Co. NY:  On Friday morning last, Charles H. Fish while seated at his bench in G.A. Harris' jewelry store, was attached with a fit, and conveyed to his boarding place, the residence of his sister, Mrs. A.O. Greenman, where he remained unconscious, with frequent convulsions, until half-past ten o'clock on Sunday evening, when he expired. Deceased has resided in this village with the exception of two or three years, since his boyhood.  When quite young he was apprenticed to the late Nelson H. Nash, where he obtained a knowledge of the jewelry business and was a skilled workman, while as an engraver he had no equal in the Chenango Valley.  Union

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, January 2, 1880

Marriages

RUDD - WINSOR:  At the residence of the bride's father, Olney Winsor, by Rev. D.N. Grummon on Wednesday, Dec. 31, Charles E. Rudd of Waterville, N.Y. [Oneida Co.] to Miss Abbie A Winsor of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY].

ROBERTS - POOLE:  At the residence of the bride's father, Dec. 25, by Rev. Wm. H. Sawtell, Edward Roberts of Bettsburg [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Matie Poole of Nineveh [Broome Co. NY].

BUSH - SKINNER:  Dec. 25, Rufus Bush of Nineveh [Broome Co. NY] to Miss [Alice] Skinner of Harpersville [Broome Co. NY].

SAXBY - ADKINS:  Dec. 25, at the residence of the bride's parents by Rev. W.B. Stewart, W.H. Saxby of Windsor [Broome Co. NY] to Miss Fannie E. Adkins of Colesville [Broome Co. NY].

BARSTOW - MATTESTON:  In Masonville [Delaware Co. NY] Dec. 24, 1879 by the Rev. Ripley, Mr. E.S. Barstow of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Grace Matteston of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

Belden, Broome Co. NY:  Burt Bakers child was buried last Friday. Services were held at the house, conducted by Rev. Mr. Segars of Port Crane.

We are pained to announce the death, on Monday, of Louis Ives' youngest boy, about five years of age.  the funeral took place at Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], Tuesday.  [Lewis Ives, 1875 - 2 Jan. 1880, buried Ives Settlement Cemetery]

A disastrous fire occurred in the outskirts of Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY], on Sunday night, Dec. 21st, at about 4 o'clock.  a small dwelling house occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Hawyer, aged respectively 86 and 81 years, was burned to the ground, and Mr. Hawyer was burned to death in it.  His body was burned to a crisp, nothing being left but a few bones.  Mrs. Hawyer was awakened by the flames, but was unable to arouse Mr. Hawyer, he probably being suffocated at the time. She escaped and walked with nothing on but her night clothes and they badly burned to the residence of her son, Mr. James Hawyer, a distance of about twenty rods. The thermometer at the time was below zero.  Her feet and hands were frozen.  Her recovery from the effect of the exposure and excitement is doubtful.  Only two persons reached the scene before the house was burned down, and they too late to do any good. The fire is supposed to have originated in a pan of hot ashes in the woodshed.  Cherry Valley Gazette.

Vital Records, Broome County, NY (1838, 1874)

 Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, March 8, 1838

Marriages

Married, by the Rev. Mr. Row, on the 28th ult. Mr. S.T. Holmes of Morrisville, Madison Co. [NY] to Miss Delilah [Wentz] daughter of Mr. William Wentz, of this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY].

By the same, ont he 1st inst., Mr. Jacob C. Hull to Miss Maria Rosecrants, both of this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY].

By the same, on the 5tgh inst., Mr. Bradford Shumway of Addison, Steuben Co. [NY] to Miss Abigail Park of this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY].

Death

Died, in Plymouth, Richland County, Ohio, on the 30th January last, Mr. James Green, aged 33 years.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, March 15, 1838

Marriages

In Vienna, Oneida County [NY] on Monday, March 5th, Nathan S. Davis, M.D. of this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] to Miss Ann Maria Parker, daughter of John Parker, Esq. of the former place.

In Windsor [Broome Co. NY] on Thursday evening the 8th instant by the Rev. Mr. Richardson, Mr. Alfred N. Brown, to Miss Elizabeth M. Smith, all of Windsor.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, March 22, 1838

Marriage

Married, in Boston, on Sunday evening last, by the Rev. Mr. Peabody, Rev. Edward N. Harris of Malden, member of the House of Representatives, to Miss Sarah George, of Boston.  this hymenial affair is the subject of remark in the city [Boston].  Mr. Harris, who has exhibited many eccentricities as a legislator, as well as a divine, being in a state of widowhood with three children, saw Miss George accidentally through the window of a milliner's shop, and being favorably impressed with her appearance, put his head into the door and popped the question of marriage to her.  She blushed and hesitated. He gave a brief account of himself; said he would give her a week to consider and determine and left the shop.  At the expiration of the week, he again appeared; consent was given, and the ceremony was at once performed.  Mr. Harris resigned his seat in the House and has taken his young bride (only sixteen) off to Methuen, where he has received a call for settlement, over a Universalist Society at $800 per annum.  Boston paper.

Deaths

Died at Great Barrington, Berkshire Co., Massachusetts, on the 9th instant, Moses Hopkins, Esq. aged 87 years.  Mr. Hopkins was a native of that town, and excepting a short period, a resident in the town during his whole life.  For sixty years he was Register of Deeds, having been originally appointed in 1778.  In 1797 he was appointed Postmaster and held both the above offices until his death.

Also died at Richford, Tioga County [NY] on the 11th instant, Mr. William Whiting, formerly of the town of Great Barrington, aged 81 years.  Mr. Hopkins and Mr. Whiting were brothers-in-law, the former having married the sister of the latter.

At Houston, Texas in June last, Mr. Samuel McKinney aged 23 years, formerly of this village [Binghamton, NY] and son of Mr. Jacob McKinney.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, March 29, 1838

Death

In Augusta, Michigan, of consumption, Mrs. Creusa [Hill], wife of the Rev. Oliver hill, int he 47th year of her age, formerly of Union, in this county [Broome Co. NY

Union News, Union, NY, September 5, 1874

Death

At State Pine City, Warren Co., Ind. Aug. 25, 1874, Elnora [Layton] wife of James E. Layton, formerly of Vestal [Broome Co. NY] in the 32d year of her age.

In the removal of this loved one, many bright hopes have been blasted and many hearts made sad.  With her bereaved husband and mother she leaves a little daughter only six months old to lament her early death, one brother and a large circle of friends to mourn her loss, but in her own loved family it is felt most upon the husband's and mother's hearts it falls heaviest.

Bright flowers wither in an hour, / And those most loved are first to die, / O'er happy days dark clouds will lower, / and purest pleasures leave a sigh.

A withering blight swept o'er thy form, / And made thy beauty fade away / Twas sickness cold unpitying storm, / That marked thee for its early prey

May heaven stamp on that little one / Her charms, her every virtue share / To cheer thy lonely hearts bereft, / Till freed from all life a cankering care.  

M.L.E.

News Item

It was rumored last Sunday that Mrs. Sally Cafferty had been taken ill Saturday evening at the Mount Carmel camp meeting and on her way home died.  She lives with her son-in-law Payne, keeper of the county House. The report proved true in part.  Mrs. Cafferty was taken ill but happily has quite recovered.

"Aunt Sally" as many call her, is known by old and young in this vicinity and the rumor of her death excited much comment.  We are glad to note her recovery and hope she may yet live many years and be able to labor for the cause to which she has already devoted a lifetime - the building up of Christ's kingdom.

Union News, Union, NY, September 19, 1874

Marriage

In Tracy Creek, N.Y. September 16th, 1874, by the Rev. D.D. Brown, E.D. Underwood, to Miss Ida E. Warwick.

Death

In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], Wednesday morning, Sept. 16th, 1874, Rev. David D. Gregory in the 73d year of his age.

Rev. D.D. Gregory, one of the best known of the more elderly clergymen in this country, died at his residence in the city of Binghamton Wednesday morning 16th inst.

The Binghamton Republican says: "Mr. Gregory was born at Sand Lake in this State [Rensselaer Co. NY] in August 1802 and was consequently a little over 72 years of age.  After engaging for some years in pursuits to maintain and educate himself - part of the time as a clerk in a store at Deposit - he graduated at Williams College and entered the ministry thoroughly qualified for the important work.  On the 11th of September 1817, he was installed pastor over the First Presbyterian Church in this city [Binghamton] and continued to discharge the duties of that position until January 25, 1848.  He then removed to Cincinnati, to become pastor over the Tabernacle Church in that city.  During his ministry in that city, his first wife, Sarah Rose, died. Subsequent to his very successful ministry in Cincinnati he has been pastor of churches in Westfield, Pa., Northeast, Pa. and Prattsburgh, in this state [NY].  Several years ago, he came to Binghamton, the scene of his early ministry to retire, but has since than served the Presbyterian Church in Conklin as a supply.  He remained up to within a few weeks remarkably vigorous for a person of his advanced years and has been enabled by vigorous intellect and bodily strength to do great service in his sacred calling."

Mr. Gregory's services in the ministry had extended over a period of forty-five years.  He was well known in this vicinity, having often supplied the pulpit of the Presbyterian church in this village.  The funeral will take place tomorrow.

Vital Records, Otsego (1862 & 1891) County, NY

 Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, January 8, 1862

Marriages

At the parsonage in this village [Oneonta, Otsego Co. NY] on the 1st inst.  by Reve. George Parsons, Mr. Madison Youngs of West Oneonta to Miss Mary A. Shepherd of Laurens [Otsego Co. NY].

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] Dec. 26th by Rev. F.C. Hodge, Mr. John C. Fish to Miss Sarah Jane Orr, all of Davenport [Delaware Co. NY].

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] Dec. 31st, by Milton Gurney Esq. Mr. Edwin Alger to Miss Lucretia Pratt both of Burlington [Otsego Co. NY]

Also, at the same time and place by the same, Mr. P. Gardner to Miss Melitta Pratt both of Burlington [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

In Portlandville [Otsego Co. NY], Jan. 5th by Elder J. Cooke at his residence, Mr. Warren Elliot to Miss Mary Jane Houghtaling both of Milford [Otsego Co. NY]A terrible accident whereby three men lost their lives occurred near Nineveh [Broome Co. NY] Thursday afternoon.  A large number of men are employed sawing lumber at a mill owned by A. Lee, about two miles east of the village.  About three o'clock, while the machinery was in motion, residents in that vicinity were startled by a load detonation which broke the glass in surrounding residences and fairly shook the ground.  Women and children, imaging that an earthquake or the crack of doom had happened, rushed into the village streets, which presented a panic stricken spectacle.  Soon it became noised abroad that the boiler in Lee's mill had exploded and a crowd quickly collected at the scene of the accident.  Here a fearful spectacle met the gaze.  The mill was badly wrecked, the roof having been blown off, while that portion of the building used as an engine room was fairly splintered.  Three unfortunate individuals, Fred Wheeler, James Shaw, and Thomas Markham all of Doraville [Broome Co. NY] were instantly killed and their bodies horribly mutilated.  Pieces of flesh and fragments of human anatomy were hurled many yards away.  In one spot could be seen a post spattered with blood, while to a jagged timber clung an unrecognizable portion of human flesh.  Further along a pile of logs were stained with the brains of an unfortunate victim who had been killed by the concussion.  It was a sight that caused strong men to shiver and turn pale with horror. the remains of the unfortunate victims were removed to Nineveh and from there to their homes. The cause of the accident is not known, as the boiler was considered perfectly safe.  Binghamton Republican, July 24.

News Item

From the South - Gloomy Prospects

Baltimore:  One of the prisoners has an editorial from the Richmond paper, which he cut out and secreted in his boot.  It gives an awful picture of the condition the Rebel army on the Potomac, saying that the entire army is utterly demoralized.  Regimental drills have ceased entirely.

The men spending their time with cards, great numbers are offering large sums for substitutes, one offered as high as $1,500.  the editor urges the government to do something to remedy the evil.  Such is the condition of the army that enlistments cannot go on.  Thousands who would enlist being deterred by the discouraging situation of the army.

A New Orleans dispatch of the 29th says that the powder mill opposite the city exploded last night. The guard had inspected the premises only half an hour before.  It is attributed to an incendiary.

The prisoners say their clothing and boots were looked upon with longing eyes by the Rebels, especially their boots.  Many men offered as high as $25 per pair for their boots.  Coffee is held in Richmond at $1.50 per lb.

Unadilla Times, Unadilla, NY, July 30, 1891

News Item

Lives Over a Century

John Brooks of Waldron, Mich, recently celebrated the 105th anniversary of his birth.

Mr. Brooks was born at Hancock, N.H. June 17, 1786.  He is thought to be of Scotch-Irish descent, although his ancestry had not been definitely traced beyond New England.  The first twenty-six years of his life were spent with his father on the farm.  His education was only such as the average farmer boy of that day received - a few months in winter at the old log schoolhouse.  His parents were strictly Christian, and he was trained in all the rigidity of the Puritan doctrines. Tobacco he never used in any form and an oath was never heard to escape his lips.  The worst language he remembers using was when he charged a crow with the devil, and he had always regretted that he did not speak of her instead as a bad crow, which he thinks would have answered just as well.

Shortly before the War of 1813, Mr. Brooks left the farm and at the village of Milford in the same state [NH], engaged as an apprentice in the blacksmith shop of an older brother.  Near the close of the war, his brother was drafted and to obey the summons must leave a dependent family.  Young Brooks, who was still single, promptly offered to go as substitute.  Enlisting, he served for three months in the capacity of cook, and the war having closed was honorably discharged.  He has forgotten his company and the number of his regiment but remembers Col. John Steele as the commander.  He returned to Hancock, where two years later he was united in marriage to Miss Deidamia Brooks, of that village. The venerable wife died in 1869.  From this union came nine children, five of whom, three sons and two daughters, are now living; John at Lickley's Corners, William at Reed City, James at Waleron, Deidamia at Jackson and Charlotte at Harrison.  

Soon after his marriage Brooks emigrated to Unadilla, N.Y. [Otsego Co.]. There, after a few years at farming, he resolved to come still father west and again fixing up his emigrant wagon pushed out.  He was headed for northern Ohio or southern Michigan, but meeting at Cattaraugus [Cattaraugus Co. NY], a returning party from the west, he was so discouraged by their report of the country that he settled in Cattaraugus and remained for twenty years while in a sawmill.  In 1848 he put into execution the resolve to come to Michigan, settling in Pittsford township, where he worked a farm for twenty-eight years and then removed in 1871 to the homestead in Wright township, where he now resides with his son James.  

Five years ago, his 100th birthday was publicly celebrated in a grove near his home, where there were over 1,000 people assembled in honor of the occasion.  Three brass bands, several G.A.R. posts and various other organizations were in attendance.  Antioch News

Mr. Brooks is remembered by the older inhabitants of the town [Unadilla] and formerly lived where Charles L. Earl now lives near the Sisson Hill schoolhouse.

Obituary, 1891: Waldron, Mich June 20:  John Brooks, undoubtedly the oldest man in Michigan, if not in the United States, is dead.  He had for a long time been troubled with gangrene in his foot and it was only a question of time how long he could hold out.  The celebration of his 105th birthday Thursday was a source of great pleasure to him, and he became greatly excited over it.  This brought on a mental relapse and seemed to accelerate the general collapse that has been near for so long.  He was seen to be dying yesterday morning, but that wonderful vitality that had enabled him to hold out so long against the grim reaper stayed death until nearly noon, when he breathed his last. The funeral services will be held this afternoon.  [Sunday Times, Bay City, MI, June 21, 1891]

Obituary, 1891:  John Brooks of Waldron, Hillsdale County, Michigan's oldest resident, celebrated his 105th birthday recently, and the next day died suddenly of gangrene.  Mr. Brooks was born in New Hampshire, June 18, 1786.  He spent his early life after the manner of the thrifty New Englanders and when the war of 1812 offered an opportunity to serve the country he enlisted and served faithfully to the end.  He started west in the 20's, but stopped in New York state, not reaching his home in Hillsdale County until 1843.  His wife died in 1869 and since then he had lived with his children.  [Midland Daily News, Midland, MI, July 2, 1891]