Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Vital Records, Otsego (1822) & Delaware (1834) Counties, NY

 Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, September 3, 1822

Marriage

In this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co., NY], on Sunday evening last, Capt. Thomas Prentiss to Mrs. Lucinda Bullard.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, September 10, 1822

Marriages

In this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on Wednesday evening last by the Rev. Mr. Fitch, Mr. Eleazer T. Lyons of Geneva to Miss Sarah Wilson of this place.

In this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NYT] on the same evening, by the Rev. Mr. Fitch, Mr. Charles G. Botsford of Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Harriet Andrews of the village.

In this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on the 8th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Fitch, Mr. Jacob Truax to Miss Elenor Starks.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, September 24, 1822

Death

In this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on Sunday evening last, Martha Jane [Johnson] daughter of Mr. Warren Johnson, aged 14 months.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, November 5, 1834

Marriages

At Middleburgh, Schoharie County [NY] on Wednesday, the 29th ult. by William B. Thomas, Rector of Christ's Church, Duanesburgh, Doct. Ebenezer Steele of this village [Delhi Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Harriet [Danforth] eldest daughter of the Hon. Thomas P. Danforth of the former place.

In Andes [Delaware Co. NY] on the 2d ult by Francis Yeoman, Esq. Mr. Abraham Adee son of Mr. Joshua Adee, to Miss Nancy Austin daughter of Mr. Samuel Austin, all of Andes.

In Davenport [Delaware Co. NY] on the 30th ult. by the Rev. M r. Connell, Mr. Frederick Marble to Miss Polly [Banner] daughter of Mr. Jacob Banner.

Deaths

In Andes [Delaware Co., NY] on the 29th ult. Fanny [Kenyon] wife of Richard Kenyon, aged 41 years, who after a short but severe illness with which she bore with noble fortitude, left behind her three of the properties which are most to be desired: an unblemished character, a most engaging family whose activity, candor and good breeding endear them to all, and a lively hope to the bosom of all her friends that God, who has so abundantly crowned her virtuous exertions in this life with Heaven's choicest blessings, has now taken her spirit to Himself in glory.

In Pine Plains, Dutchess County [NYT] on the 17th ult. Mr. Caleb Carpenter aged 30 years.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, November 12, 1834

Marriages

At Owego [Tioga Co. NY] on the 28th ult. by the Rev. Norman H. Adams, of Unadilla, Charles Noble, Esq. to Miss Abagail Camp both of the former place.

In St. Peter's Church, Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] on the 30th ult. by the Rev. Norman H. Adams, Mr. George Juliand, of Greene [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Paulina [Newton] daughter of John Newton, of the former place.

At Meredith [Delaware Co. NY] on the 5th inst. by the Rev. S.B. Jones, Mr. Isaac Seeley of Franklin [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Lucy [Stilson] daughter of Nathan Stilson of the former place.

Deaths

In Harpersfield [Delaware Co. NY] on the 5th inst. Mr. Peter Warn aged about seventy, one of the first settlers of this county.

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At Gadsby's Hotel in the city of Washington [DC] on Saturday morning of last week, Isaac Tompkins Esq, of this village [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY].

The death of this amiable and estimable citizen has cast a gloom over this village, which will not soon be forgotten.  Mr. Tolmpkins had been in a declining state of health for several years and was returning from an unavailing visit to the Red Sulphur Springs in Virginia when death arrested his progress.  He was in the prime of life and in the midst of his usefulness.  Intelligent, liberal and enterprising, his loss will be severely felt by a large circle of friends to whom he was deservedly dear.

He did not relinquish the fond hope of again seeing Binghamton, until a day or two before he died, but finding himself failing rapidly, he, with great composure, completed the arrangement of his pecuniary concerns and the disposition of his property, sank into a quiet repose, from which he never awoke.  Broome County Courier.  [Isaac D. Tompkins, d. Nov. 1, 1834, aged 37 years, buried Congressional Cemetery, Washington, DC]

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, November 19, 1834

Marriages

In Sanford, Broome Co. [NY] on the 11th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Owens, Mr. Alexander H. MacClure to Miss Betsey Luscomb both of Sanford.

At Arbor Hill in this town [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] on the 13th inst., by the Rev. E.K. Maxwell, Mr. William Barnes to Miss Catharine Smith, all of this place.

In Cloves Ville on the 6th inst. by John Beadle, Esq. Mr. Elijah Vanvelsey to Miss Hannah Gordon all of Cloves Ville.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, November 26, 1834

Marriages

At Austerlitz, Columbia Co. [NY] on the 17th inst. by the Rev. Timothy Woodbridge, Mr. Sylvester Wheat of Franklin, Delaware Co. [NY] to Miss Julia Minard of the former place.

At Maryland, Otsego Co. [NY] on the 16th inst. by J. Peaseley, Esq. E. Whitehead Carpenter, Esq. of Davenport [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Alpha [Utter] daughter of Hon. William Utter of the former place.

News Item

Porter Matteson left his house in Edmeston, Otsego Co. [NY] about one mile form DeLancy's Tavern, on the 4th inst. for the purpose of looking for some stray cattle, expecting to return that evening or the next morning.  He has not since returned and no information has as yet been received of his fate.  He is about thirty years of age, middle size, has very dark curly hair, hair cap, green pantaloons, butternut colored broadcloth vest, checked cravat and coarse boots.  He had complained of an unpleasant feeling in his head, and it is supposed that he may perhaps have strayed away in a fit of derangement.  Any information concerning him is earnestly requested to be sent to Warren DeLancy, P.M. Edmeston manor, or S. Medbury, P.M., New Berlin.


Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Civil War Letter - Warren Cutshaw - October 1861

 Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, November 13, 1861

Civil War Letter - Warren Cutshaw - 3rd NY Cavalry

Camp Keyes, Upton's Hill, Va., October 30th, 1861

Friend Carpenter:  Thinking that you would like to hear from our quarters, I take the liberty to inform you of our situation and some facts that have occurred. The weather is rather cold here in Va.  Our quarters are very pleasant, and the boys are in good spirits - ever ready and willing to burn powder.

For a while back, we have been encamped at Arlington Heights, in a beautiful spot, where we have enjoyed ourselves nicely.  Our campgrounds were near the Potomac in full view of Washington.  Here we were what we call "lazy soldiers," having no hard work to do, except an occasional walk of five miles to do picket duty.  The residue of our time was occupied in drilling, both as a Regiment and by Company.  

Saturday Sept. 28th, our Brigade, which consists of the 14th Brooklyn Zuaves, 22d, 24th, and 30th Regiments N.Y.S.V., were inspected by General E.D. Keyes, our Brigadier General.  The inspection occupied nearly the whole day, and after we had finished and were enjoying ourselves hugely over a nice supper, the long desired marching orders came to us, and immediately we left our "grub," shouldered our muskets and fell into line. We had no idea where we were bound, nor did we care. We left camp in excellent spirits, all singing the Star-Spangled Banner.  We marched as far as Ball's Crossroads, where we found a large number of soldiers.  We were ordered to take the advance and marched on towards Fall's Church.  We were preceded by two batteries of artillery.  As soon as we left Ball's Crossroads, we were in enemy's country, at least the enemy were there the day before, so all noise ceased and we wended our way slowly along and marched into a large field and were told that we might consider this our lodging place for the night.

We went to work and built a large campfire from secesh rails.  As soon as the fire was started, we made our bed upon the ground, and we had the sky for a covering.  We found sleeping rather cool, for in our haste we had left our blankets at Arlington.  It was a laughable affair to see the different positions men got into to keep comfortable.  But, at last daylight came.  Never was it more welcome. We then found out that our tents would not come up in some time, and we went to work building shanties with rails, covered with secesh wheat. These answered very well for fair weather. But Virginia skies are not always bright, and one night when we least expected it, we were visited by a heavy rain and hailstorm which lasted all night.  Our shanties afforded us no protection from the storm, and the consequence was that we got good and wet. We then gathered around our campfire and tried to dry our clothes and pass the night as pleasantly as we could, but the rain poured down in what we soldiers would call "double quick time," which completely extinguished our fire, making all as dark as Erebus.  A squad of us got together and serenaded Capt. King and his lieutenants, with home sweet home and could you have been in our clothes, you would have thought with us that there was no place like home.  We found the Captain sitting in the middle of his shanty seated on a wash basin, on each side of him sat his lieutenants on pint cups, each. The floor was covered with water. The Captain came to the window and thanked us for our song, and invited us to walk in and partake of the hospitalities of his mansion, consisting of an empty sardine box and an old chase stand, at the same time cautioning those that could not swim not to enter as the water was very deep and still raising.  We then returned and rekindled our fire and dried our clothes the best we could.  Many were the stockings that came out the next morning minus a toe or heel and some perhaps both, while undergoing the process of drying.  But notwithstanding, the rain kept pouring down.  Many was the joke that passed around, each one trying to pass the night the best they could.  With daylight the storm ceased, and men were dispatched to Arlington to bring up our tents. We have now got our tents and have commenced keeping house in good style.

We are now encamped in a beautiful spot on what is called Upton's Hill, about one mile and a half from Fall's Church, where it is said Washington quartered his army one winter in the days of the Revolution, and about one mile from Muson's Hill.

We work every forenoon on our Fort, which has been called Fort Upton, and it is nearly completed.  A week ago last Wednesday, we mounted the first gun, a 24 pounder. After the gun was put in its place, the Engineer told our Lieutenant that he might name the gun, whereupon he declared it should be called the Black Jake.  We than gave three cheers for our new friend.

Thursday afternoon, General Wadsworth, having learned from scouts that the enemy had fallen back, took a squad of Cavalry and a company of infantry and with them, started on a reconnoitering expedition.  He went as far as Wilcox's brick house one mile from Fairfax.  He met no enemy but could see a Regiment of Cavalry near Fairfax drawn up in line of battle.  He remained there all night and returned in the morning.  He made important discoveries and we have extended our picket about two miles the other side of Fall's Church.  Thursday night we expected that we would move on to Fairfax and made preparations accordingly, but Friday morning found us in camp as usual.

Thursday night, Lieutenants Campbell, Gurney and Potts, accompanied by six privates, went out to ascertain the position of the enemy. They made some important discoveries and returned with a contraband of war and a skeleton of a horse, just able to walk.  He is a noble beast and has evidently seen better days.  This is a valuable trophy and is now on exhibition in our camp.  If Barnum only had this animal with his Hippocampus and the Whales, it would be a most valuable collection.

Kind Providence seems to favor our Regiment with health.  Thus far, we have lost but two out of our Regiment, a Lieutenant and a private.

I have had the good fortune to see most of the boys from Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], in the different Regiments and they are all looking fine and seem to enjoy the best of health.  Oneonta has done well for a place of its size.  "Bully" for Oneonta.  yesterday I went over on Hall's Hill to see the Ellsworth Avengers. They are a fine lot of fellows as I ever come across. I saw Homer Brewer, among others that I knew.  They are encamped about one mile from here. They were feeling fine, but perhaps they will find out that all that glitters is not gold sooner or later. We expect to have a fight before long and if we do, you will hear a good report from the old 30th.

I have often thought of you since I become a soldier and of the many times that I have sat in your sanctum and perused your exchanges and then after I had got well posted as regards the news, I would go down and spend a little time with friend Morey.  Those were gay times for me and I hope that the day is not far distant when the present difficulties will be disposed of and peace will again be restored throughout the whole union, so that I can be with you again. But I must close, as I am about as drowsy as if I was about to sleep like the old fellow in the Arabian Stories, or even like the seven sleepers of Christendom, who fell into a doze some centuries back and will come to life again. The Lord knows when, for I don't.  

Yours, &c.   W.C.

___________________________

Adjutant General's Report, 3rd NY Cavalry

CUTSHAW, WARREN J.:  Aged, 25 years, Enlisted December 31, 1863 at Troy [Rensselaer Co. NY]; mustered in as private, Company G, January 20, 1864, to serve three years; transferred to Company A., July 12, 1865; to Company F, First N.Y Mounted Rifles, July 21, 1865.

Born in Oneonta NY, Occupation, mechanic, Physical description:  Blue eyes, light hair, light complexion, 5 feet, 6 inches tall.

Death notice, 1884:  Mr. Warren Cutshaw died at his home in this village [Oneonta] on Monday morning from consumption.  He was forty-eight years of age.  Mr. Cutshaw served as a soldier of the rebellion and was a member of E.D. Farmor post, G.A.R. of this village. [Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, Jan. 17, 1884]


Vital Records, Cortland (1848) & Otsego (1873) Counties, NY

 McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, October 5, 1848

Marriage

At Homer [Cortland Co. NY] on the 4th inst. by Rev. S.J. Decker, Mr. Seth Dodge of Dryden [Tompkins Co. NY] and Miss Betsey C. Dodge of McGrawville [Cortland Co. NY].

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, October 12, 1848

Death

We learn that a fatal accident occurred near Canastota [Madison Co. NY] on Saturday last.  A boy aged about 16, whose name we did not learn, was riding on a load of grain, when one of the bags on which he was sitting slipped from it place, precipitating the lad under the horses' heels. The wagon wheels passed over his neck crushing it badly and he was otherwise injured.  He died almost instantaneously.  Syracuse Star.

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, October 19, 1848

Marriages

On Wednesday Sept. the 27th by the Rev. E.T. Ball, Mr. Charles Nichols and Miss Rhoda C. Jones all of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY].

On the 10th inst., Mr. Milton Palmer and Miss Cynthia Darby both of Cortlandville [Cortland Co. NY].

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, October 26, 1848

Death

In Glastinburg, Conn., august 14th, Julia [Whipple] wife of Francis W. Whipple and daughter of Sepinneus and Betsey Burnham, aged 22 years.

"Sister thou wast mild and lovely, / Gentle as the summer breeze, / Pleasant as the air of evening, / When it floats among the trees.

Peaceful be thy silent slumber, / Peaceful in the grave so low, / Thou no more wilt join our number, / Thou no more our songs shall know."

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, March 19, 1873

Deaths

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY] on the 9th inst., W.S. Williams in the 44th year of his age.

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY] March 8th of congestion of the lungs, Malinda [Lamb] infant daughter of W.C. and Julia I. Lamb, aged 1 year, 4 months and 2 days.

In Clarksville [Allegany Co. NY] on the 4th inst. Hannah [Snyder] wife of the late Philip Snyder, aged 83 years.

In Fly Creek [Otsego Co. NY] March 6th, 1873, Catherine Hathway int he 80th year of her age.

In Hope Factory, March 4, 1873, Maria [Berry] youngest daughter of John and Elizabeth Berry aged 11 years, 4 months and 10 days.

In Hartwick Seminary [Otsego Co. NY], March 11th, Clark Davison aged 78 years.

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] March 2nd, Chadler Bergin aged 40 years.

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] March 5th, Michael Yager aged 65 years.

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] March 8th, Mrs. John M. Ferrel aged 45 years.

We have just learned of the sudden death of Mr. J.N. Holt an old citizen of the town of Columbus [Chenango Col. NY].  It seems that evening meetings are being held at South Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY] and that Mr. Holt who resided something over a half mile from that place, attended on Wednesday evening last, and after the close, walked home, in apparently good health.  He entered his house and his wife asked him if it was not pretty cold.  He answered her and stepped in front of the looking glass and combed the ice and frost from his whiskers and had hardly turned around when he fell to the floor and immediately expired.  Mr. Holt was somewhat advanced in years, and was rather a spare, thin built man, Still we believe he had usually enjoyed good health.  New Berlin Gazette

News Items

Mr. Editor:  I notice in your issue of the 5th inst., the following item:  "In and around Garrattsville [Otsego Co. NY] reside nineteen persons between 65 and 87 years of age, twelve of them are over 80 years of age."

Mrs. Thankful Pattengill, widow of the late Deacon Horatio Pattengill, lives but five miles from Garrattsville in the town of New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY], was ninety years of age the 24th of last February.  On that occasion her descendants made her a birthday visit.  But for the inclemency of the season more would have gathered at the old home.  As it was, three sons were present:  Mr. William Pattengill, residing at the homestead, Rev. J.S. Pattengill of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Rev. H. Pattengill, of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] and Mr. Parker Scott of Milford [Otsego Co. NY] whose first wife was Paulina Pattengill.  Two grandchildren and one great-grandchild were also present.  If all the living with their wives could have been present there would have been three sons with their wives, two sons-in-law, whose wives are both dead, 21 grandchildren, including husband and wives, and 18 great-grandchildren.  Three grandsons were the tribute of death in the last war.  Eight of the grandchildren are married and 5 are single.  In religious profession 17 are connected with Presbyterian church, one with the Reformed and one with the Episcopal church. The mind of this aged Mother is as good apparently as fifty years ago, and she has much less bodily infirmity than many of those many years younger. She has a ripe old age, while the pilgrimage of ninety years has given a mellow to her Christian character.

__________________________

We are grieved to learn that our esteemed citizen, Elakaim R. Ford is in a very low condition.  During Monday of this week the family, friends, and Dr. Case had but little hopes of his living the day through.  Mr. Ford is an old citizen and loved by all who have the honor of his acquaintance and each day his health is enquired about by the old who have for quarter and half a century associated with him, and the young who, like the writer, have listened to his kindly and practical counsels. Though his "way of life" may have "fallen into the sear, the yellow leaf, " yet we are glad to know that he has all "that which should accompany old age, as honor, love, obedience, troops of friends."  And since it is appointed unto all men to die, we hope and believe that when his ---

"Summons comes to join, / The innumerable caravan which moves / To that mysterious realm where each shall take / His chamber in the silent halls of death,"

he may "approach his grave like one that wraps the drapery of his couch about him and lies down to pleasant dreams."  Herald

Monday, May 11, 2026

Vital Records, Otsego (1806), Madison (1822) & Chenango (1875) Counties, NY

 Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, August 14, 1806

Elopement

Whereas my wife Polly [Pettice] has eloped from my bed and board, this is therefore to forbid all persons harboring or trusting her on my account, as I will pay no debts she may contract after this date:  Cogswell Pettice Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY] August 6, 1806

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, August 21, 1806

Deaths

Died in the town of Pittsfield in this county [Otsego Co. NY] on the evening of the 28th July last, James D. Whitford in the 25th year of his age.  He performed his day's work as usual, the day of his death, and after eating his supper, retired to bed, apparently well and in good health and in ten minutes after was a corpse!  He has left a wife and one child to bemoan his loss.

Died at Burlington [Otsego Co. NY] on the 1st inst.  Mrs. Nabby Chapin consort of Mr. Gad Chapin, in the 39th year of her age, leaving a disconsolate husband and five children to deplore her irreparable loss.

______________________

Found dead in Attleborough (Massachusetts) on Saturday the 14th ult (near the turnpike road, northward of Israel Hatch's tavern) a man by the name of John Welch supposed by certain papers to have wrought in the business of printing.  A coroner's jury of inquest was held on the body, whose verdict from evidence produced on examination was that he died in consequence of fatigue, ill health, want of rest, and falling asleep on the ground; after which the body was decently interred. The clothes, papers, and some money found on the deceased are left with John Richardson, Jun. in said town.  Dedham paper.

Alas! Poor Welch!  He was a faithful, industrious journeyman in this office, from 1794 to 1797.  Amongst his numerous good qualities, he had one failing which injured none so much as himself.

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, August 28, 1806

Death

Died in Reading, Jonah Freeman supposed to be 107 years old.  When he was upwards or 40 years of age (a slave) he married a free woman of color, with whom he lived upwards of 60 years, by whom he had 5 children; two of them engaged in the American War and died defending the freedom of that country which had enslaved their father.  Previous to that, one of them, by his industry & economy, accumulated property, with which he purchased his father, took a bill of sale of him, and gave him his freedom.  Soon after this uncommon proof of filial affection, this benevolent son died and left the whole of his little property to his aged father; by which means the father, as heir to the son, had a legal Bill of Sale of himself.  A singular incidence!  perhaps the only one ever known.  Jonah has been an exemplary professor of Christianity nearly 40 years.  He died in exercise of an unshaken hope, through Christ, of eternal life.  "If the son shall make you free, then shall you be free indeed.:  Salem Gaz.

The Pilot, Cazenovia, NY, September 12, 1822

Deaths

In DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY] on the 31st ult. of the dysentery, Mrs. Polly Shed consort of Jonathan Shed, Esq.

In Woodstock settlement [Madison Co. NY] on the 5th instant, Lansing [Eager] son of George Eager, Esq. aged one year & three months.

In this village [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY] on Monday morning last, an infant son of the Rev. J. Brown.

The Pilot, Cazenovia, NY, September 19, 1822

Death

Died, in this village, on the 15th inst., an infant of Mr. Elisha Allis.

The Pilot, Cazenovia, NY, September 26, 1822

Death

In this town [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY] on Wednesday morning last, George Turner, son of Mr. S. Turner, aged 10 years.

New Berlin Gazette, New Berlin, NY, September 18, 1875

Death

In South Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY] August 30th, Mrs. Edna [Lloyd] wife of William Lloyd in the 71st year of her age.

News Item

Last Saturday we noticed on our streets Mr. Jonathan Brown.  He is 91 years old; had walked from his residence in Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY], three miles, to this village [Morris, Otsego Co. NY] and said he should walk back again.  Pretty good walking for a man 91 years old.

Sunday, May 10, 2026

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY (1879 & 1891)

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, October 30, 1879

Marriage

At the house of the bride's mother, Middlefield, N.Y. [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. T.F. Hall, Oct. 22d, 1879, Burdett Guy of Schenevus [Otsego Co. NY] and Carrie E. Griffin of Middlefield.

Death

In Elk Creek [Otsego Co. NY], Sept. 28th, Anna Laurie [Page] youngest child of John and Jualdine Page, aged about 3 months.

Among the patriotic young men of Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] who entered the service of their country in the war of the rebellion was Robert C. [Wood] oldest son of Jerome B Wood, Esq.  He was soon stricken down with fever and died in camp at Washington on the 1st of January 1863, aged 18 years.  His father went to his bedside, brought his remains home for interment, took the same fever and died on the 13th day of the same month.  Both were victims to the war.  Application for a pension in favor of the mother was made, and the case put in charge of Charles T. Brewer, Esq. of this village, by whom it was successfully prosecuted.  Mrs. Wood receives pension arrears amounting to $1,600 and $96 a year during her life.

Unadilla Times, Unadilla, NY, June 4, 1891

Marriage

Invitations are out announcing the marriage of Miss Belle Tingley and D.H. Loomis.  The happy event will occur Thursday, June 18th.

Death

Wells Bridge, Otsego Co. NY: George Kelley, one of our oldest inhabitants, died last Thursday.  He was taken to Afton [Chenango Co. NY] for burial.  Mr. Kelly has done much in building and making improvements in our little village and was a man that will be greatly missed.

News Item

Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] is not without her sensations and among those that have recently occurred is a midnight marriage which was solemnized at that hour in the office of Judge Nash.  the ceremony was performed by Judge Nash, who was called from his slumbers to officiate.  The bridegroom was Warren H. McVittie of Oxford, N.Y. [Chenango Co.] and the bride gave her name as Miss Flora A. Eccleston of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], and age as 18 years and certified to it.  It appears today that it was a runaway match, and it was suspected last night that there was something unusual about a wedding occurring at that time of night.  It appears on investigation that the father of the girl is a farmer and McVittie was in his employ as a farm laborer. The girl, his daughter, is between 15 and 16 years of age. Today the father swore out a warrant for McVittie and he was arrested and taken to Oxford, where an examination was held.  Mcvittie was held to await the action of the grand jury for abducting the girl.  He is now in jail here, and before the grand jury meets, he will have ample time to reflect and consider that marriage is a serious question and should not be contracted unadvisedly.

We learn that the father, Devillo Eccleston, of Guilford, is a respectable man and enjoys the confidence of his neighbors.  His daughter has always borne a good reputation.  It is also learned that McVittie's reputation if clouded.  Binghamton Republican.

Saturday, May 9, 2026

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1879)

 Bainbridge Times, Bainbridge, NY, October 9, 1879

Deaths

CARPENTER:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 28, 1879, Mrs. Esck Carpenter aged 84 years. [Lucy Ann Warner Carpenter].

BENNETT:  In Masonville [Delaware Co. NY] Sept. 28, 1879, Mrs. R. W. Bennett aged 48 years.

VAN DYKE:  The funeral of Mr. Wilson Van Dyke was largely attended by the Masonic fraternity.  Members being present and participating from the following lodges:  Oneonta 466; Norwich 802; Franklin 562; Moscow 506 of Pa., Benevolence of Mason City, Iowa and a large number of the members of Freedom Lodge No. 224. The Unadilla Cornet Bank attended in a body and led the procession from the Presbyterian Church to the cemetery playing a mournful funeral dirge.  The services at the grave were very impressively rendered by assistant grand lecturer, W. Hiram Edgerton of Franklin Lodge, assisted by Rev. Bro. Homan of Moscow Lodge of Pa. Br. Van Dyke had been a mason sixty-three years, having joined Union Lodge of Towanda Pa. in 1816.  He was a man well beloved and respected by all with whom he came in contact; was always a zealous mason and a true Christian.  His death, like his life, was calm and peaceful, his last request was to be buried by the Mystic Brotherhood, of which he had so long been an honored member.  Upon receiving the assurance that his wishes should be faithfully carried out, he seemed content and faded away and has gone to that rest for which he had so long been prepared, and which had no terrors for him.  The friends he leaves behind to mourn his loss have the cordial sympathy of the fraternity, who have also lost a dear brother and with the hope that the supreme Architect of the Universe who looks down from his throne in infinite mercy upon his children here below will grant us a reunion in this better land, we leave our brother, with this simple epitaph, "An honest man, the noblest work of god."

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, October 10, 1879

Marriages

BAKER -BADER:  At Ft. Madison, Iowa, Sept. 23, by Rev. W.G. Gunn, Charles D. Baker, M.D. formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Mary J. Bader of the former place.

COLLINS - REESE:  At the residence of the bride's father, Mr. DeWitt C. Reese, near South Hamilton, N.Y. [Madison Co.], on Thursday, Sept. 23, 1879, by Rev. W.F. Purrington of East Hamilton, N.Y., Mr. Charles F. Collins of Brookfield, N.Y. [Madison Co.] and Miss Clara M. Reese.

WHITE - STUART:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY] on Wednesday, October 1st, at the residence of the bride's mother, H.H. White, M.D. and M. Louise Stuart both of Earlville.

BUNDY - NICHOLS:  At the Congregational Parsonage in Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 11th, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. B.B. Bundy of Rock Rift, Delaware County, N.Y. to Miss Parnie Nichols of Buffalo, N.Y. [Erie Co.].

HILLS - OWENS:  At the home of the bride's mother, Sept. 16, by Rev. A.B. Jones, Mr. Charles S. Hills and Miss Hattie E. Owens all of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY].

CLARK - ELLIOTT:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 12th, by Rev. G.R. Burnside, Mr. G.A. Clark of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Alice Elliott of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

DREW - WHEELER:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY] Sept. 17th, by Rev. A.C. Smith, Mr. Frank L. Drew to Miss Mary Wheeler all of Cincinnatus.

ESTUS - PRATT:  In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] Sept. 25th by Rev. I.T. Walker, Hermon Estus of Brisbin [Chenango Co. NY] and Mrs. Emma Pratt of Binghamton.

MERRELL - ABBOTT:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 30 by Rev. William R. Baldwin, Ira Merrell of Oxford and Mrs. Irene Abbott of Hinsdale, Cattaraugus County [NY].

OSTERHOUT - SLOAN: At the home of the bride, October 1st by Rev. W.M. Howie, assisted by Rev. A.J. Adams, Mr. Jacob Osterhout and Miss Jennie Sloan both of Walton [Delaware Co. NY].

SPENCER - VAN AKINESS:  In Downsville [Delaware Co. NY], Oct. 4th by Rev. G.M. Janes, Mr. Thomas N. Spencer and Miss Mary E. Van Akiness.

Deaths

CARPENTER:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], September 28th, 1879, Mrs. Esck S. Carpenter, aged 84 years.  

She was an estimable member of the Baptist Church in Guilford; a professing Christian for more than half a century.  Five children are now living to mourn her loss and are following out in daily life their early teaching.

FINN:  In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 29th, Mrs. Sarah Finn aged 87 years.

VAN DYKE:  In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] Sept. 29, Wilson Van Dyke aged 84 years.  Mr. V. was a soldier in the war of 1812 and had been a Mason 63 years.

HOTCHKISS:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 22d, Sybil [Hotchkiss] wife of Loren Hotchkiss, aged 83 years.

FISK:  In Atchison, Kansas, Sept. 14th, James V. B. Fisk aged 23 years, son of Horace Fisk, of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

PAYNE:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 21st, Mrs. Ira Payne.

SWEET:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 19th, Mr. Albert Sweet aged 26 years.

WELLS:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 17th, Eliza S. [Wells] wife of Rufus Wells, aged 63 years.

LOTHRIDGE:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 23d, Mr. Erastus Lothridge.

WELLS:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 19th, Charlotte E. Wells only daughter of the late Matthew O. Wells, aged 37 years.

SKILLMAN:  In Mazeppa, Minn. Sept. 6th, Julia A. [Skillman] wife of Francis Skillman, aged 63 years, formerly of German [Chenango Co. NY].

LENDERSON:  In Brisbin [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 28th, Mrs. Mariah Lenderson aged 74 years.

PAGE:  At Chicago, Ill., Sept. 25th, 1879, after a painful illness of two years and eight months, E, Zina Page wife of G.M. Page, aged 56 years, 7 months and 11 days.

SMITH:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 5th Harriet E. [Smith] wife of Eleazer Smith, aged 36 years.

MILLER:  In Brisbin [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 2d, 1879, Mr. Loren B. Miller aged 72 years.

TERWILLIGER:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] Aug. 29th, Orlo May [Terwilliger] daughter of David and Elizabeth Terwilliger.

BARNARD:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] at the residence of B.P. Barnard, Aug. 31st, Mrs. Catharine E. [Barnard] wife of William O. Barnard of Mason City, Iowa, aged 54 years. 

BULLOCK:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] August 31st, Rev. Daniel Bullock, aged 77 years.

NORTHRUP: In Masonville [Delaware Co. NY] Sept. 30th, George H. Northrup aged 73.

WEBSTER:  At Fort Plain N.Y. [Montgomery Co.] on Sunday evening, October 5, Charles W. Webster aged about 66 years.

DERBY:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 2d, 1879, Samuel Derby aged 59 years.

BENNETT:  On Wednesday, October 1st, Jesse Bennett who lives on Murphy's Hill about one and one-half miles west of Walton [Delaware Co. NY], came to the village in the forenoon.  After his return home, he went to the woods to cut some small sled runners.  He did not return when expected and a person went after him.  The sled runners had been cut and carried out of the woods.  Mr. Bennett had evidently returned for his axe and was found dead in the woods near it.

KINNEY:  William Kinney, a foreman in Weed's tannery, Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], died Monday morning at the Park Hotel in that city from the effects of morphia poison, taken in a fatal quantity to induce sleep. The deceased had been on a protracted spree and used the fatal drug to cure nervousness and cause sleep.  Kinney's domestic relations were known of not having been of the happiest character, he having separated from his wife about two and a half years ago.  Shortly before this he was reported to have attempted suicide by taking bed bug poison.  He had then been on a spree very similar to the one which has terminated fatally.  Latterly, however, he had been very steady and had not been seen intoxicated since December last. At the inquest it was divulged that he had taken about six grams.

TUNNICLIFF:  On Saturday, Sept. 20th, between 11 and 12 A.M., George Tunnicliff son of Mr. Tunnicliff at the Five-Mile Point, Otsego Lake, was found in the road near the residence of Mr. Hoke.  He left home that morning in apparent good health and was running when he fell.  When found, he was breathing slightly and, in a few minutes, expired.  He has been subject to heart disease for many years which ultimately caused death.  He was 25 years of age and was a printer by trade.

News Items

About 1802, John Stoddard of Watertown Corner, removed to Coventryville, Chenango County, N.Y.  Six children were then born, and three others were added afterward.  All these nine children married and raised families, and at this time none of the nine are living.  The third child and oldest daughter died November, 1875 aged 85.  The descendants of these nine children conveniently near held a family meeting at the residence of John Stoddard of Coventryville.  Of the oldest son's family six members were present, one of these, Zerah Stoddard, a resident of Little Elm, Texas.  Of the fourth child and third son's family, nineteen members were present, three of these from New Jersey.  Of the seventh child and third daughter's family, Mrs. S.W. Warren, of this village, ten members were present, and all these reside in Bainbridge.  In these nine families, about forty children were born, and at the date not less than one hundred, great-grandchildren of the original settler.  One of the noticeable features of such a gathering is the small number that can be gathered at any one time or place. They are widely scattered and will only be once all gathered. Another feature is the kindly feeling cultivated and maintained by these family gatherings. There is a real unity in heart and life that ought not to be forgotten or neglected.  Pleasant memories, let them often return.

____________________

It is a matter of local interest that Col. Thomas Buford of Owenton, Ky., who in March last shot and killed Judge Elliott of the Court of Appeals of that state, because he had given an adverse decision in a lawsuit for which crime he was tried and convicted of murder in the first degree and sentenced to imprisonment for life, is the same ruffian who, some eight or ten years ago, struck Ulysses Turner, formerly a school teach in Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] and a brother of Dea. Lester Turner, of Norwich, upon the head with a cane; Mr. Turner being the counsel opposed to him in a lawsuit, causing permanent injury and subsequent blindness.  Many of our citizens will remember the unfortunate gentleman.  He died something like a year ago.

Friday, May 8, 2026

Vital Records, Madison County, NY (1873)

 Democratic Union, Oneida, NY, May 1, 1873

Marriages

MOREY - BOILON:  In Oneida [Madison Co. NY] April 28, by Rev. Father Fenelly, Mr. Edward Morey and Miss Jane Boilon.

QUIGLEY - CAHALEN:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] April 21 at the rectory of St. Mary's Catholic Church by Rev. A.P. Ludden, Michael Quigley and Mary Cahalen both of Hamilton.

McCORMIC - LARKINS:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] Ap[ril 22 at the same place by the same, Mr. Peter McCormic and Miss Mary Larkins, both of Hamilton.

McCARTHY - KERNAN:  In Utica [Oneida Co. NY], April 28 at St. John's Church by Rev. Thomas Daly, Thomas McCarthy of syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY and Rosa [Kernan] daughter of Francis Kernan of Utica.

Deaths

PRATT:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] April 23 at the residence of -?- Marhaina [Pratt] widow of -? Pratt, aged 64 years.

LAMB:  In West Eaton [Madison Co. NY] April 11, Miss Kate Lamb aged 16 years.

LOFTIS:  In West Eaton [Madison Co. NY] April 15, Michael Loftis aged 34 years.

PAYNE:  In West Eaton [Madison Co. NY] April 16, Mrs. Eunice Payne, aged 84 years.

Nelson, Madison Co. NY:  Death has visited this vicinity, and Mrs. Payne, mother of Mrs. Ezeklel Wescott, aged 84, is now gone.  

WOOD:  Near -?- April 15, at the residence of his son, Lewis Wood, Levi Wood aged 95 years.

PYNE:  In Vinton, Benton County, Iowa, April 13, David Pyne formerly of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY].

MITCHELL:  In West Eaton [Madison Co. NY] April 29 of paralysis, Jonathan Mitchell, aged 70 years.

JENNE:  In West Eaton [Madison Co. NY] April 21, Ezra Jenne one of the early settlers of the town of Eaton, aged 87 years.

PARKER:  Near Bouckville [Madison Co. NY], April 23 of -?- colic, Clarence Jay [Parker] only child of Charles W. and Lucinda C. Parker, aged 8 days.

HILL:  In Perryville [Madison Co. NY] April 25, suddenly, Ursule B. Hill wife of Webster C. Hill, aged 38 years.

MATHEWSON:  Near Oneida Castle [Oneida Co. NY] April 26, Sylvanus Mathewson aged 55 years.  The funeral will take place from his late residence Thursday at 1 o'clock P.M.  Friends and acquaintances are respectfully invited to attend.

Mr. S. Mathewson, father of J.B. Mathewson of this village, died at his residence, near Oneida Castle, on Monday evening of this week after four- or five-days illness.  Mr. Mathewson had for about twenty years been a resident of the town of Stockbridge [Madison Co. NY] up to the year of 1867, when he purchased and removed to a farm near Oneida Castle, where he has since resided.  He had an extensive acquaintance in this vicinity and in Stockbridge, where he for many years was engaged in the lime business and won for himself a reputation for honesty and integrity.  He leaves a wife and nine children, two of whom reside in Nevada. The other children are residents of this State, the two younger living at home.  The funeral takes place from his late residence today (Thursday) at 1 o'clock P.M.  Friends and acquaintances are respectfully invited to attend.

PETTIT:  In Clockville [Madison Co. NY], April 28, Huldah Pettit aged 75 years.

DURKIN:  Chittenango, Madison Co. NY:  On Tuesday morning of last week, James Durkin an Irishman who has resided in this place for many years, died after a brief illness of quick consumption. [James John Durkin, 1820-14 Apr. 1873, AE 53y, Oakwood Cemetery, Chittenango]

THOMAS:  Hugh W. Thomas a young man 22 years of age and formerly residing in this place [West Eaton, Madison Co. NY] was accidentally killed on the eastern division of the Midland Railroad in the State of New Jersey on Wednesday evening, 23d inst.  He was a son of Mrs. Owen Jones, residing near Pratt's Hollow [Madison Co. NY] and nephew of Mrs. Hugh Jones of this place.  No particulars of the sad event have yet been received.  He was temporarily buried near where the accident occurred, but a messenger has gone for his remains for final burial here. [Hugh W. Thomas, 1853-1873, West Eaton Cemetery]

LOOMIS:  John Loomis, an old and highly respected citizen, well-known to most of the people of this vicinity and who for many years resided about midway between Oneida [Madison Co. NY] and Sconondoa [Oneida Co. NY] died at his residence on Thursday of last week in the 84th year of his age.  He was buried form his late residence on Sunday last.  Mr. Loomis was the youngest of a family of four living brothers and sisters. There were at his funeral, a sister, Mrs. Neer, aged 87 years and a brother, Adam Loomis, aged 92 years. But few depart from earth whose virtues are more worthy foo emulation than those so long practiced by Mr. Loomis.

Thursday, May 7, 2026

Vital Records, Broome (1837) & Chenango (1846) Counties, NY

 Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, July 6, 1837

Marriage

In St. Luke's Church, Detroit [Michigan], on Wednesday the 21st June last by the Rt. Rev. Bishop McCostry, Mr. Thomas Evans, merchant, to Miss Nancy Doty, both of this village. [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY]

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, July 13, 1837

Marriage

In this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] on Thursday morning last, by the Rev. Edward Andrews, P.J. Fish, Esq. of New York to Miss Eliza Howland of Barnstable, Mass.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, July 20, 1837

Death

We are pained to record the death by drowning on Saturday the 1st inst. at Greene Village [Chenango Co. NY] of the Rev. Mr. Foote a son of Amasa Foote, Esq. of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], and a recent graduate of the Auburn Theological Seminary.  Mr. F. had but just arrived at Greene upon a visit to the Rev. Mr. Raymond, the Presbyterian clergyman of that place, who was his classmate in college and for whom he intended to preach the next day.  After taking tea together, the two friends went out into the river to bathe, when Mr. Foote, being an indifferent swimmer, was drawn over a rift in the stream into very deep water and before any assistance could be rendered, was drowned.  Chenango Telegraph.

News Item

My wife Sally [Andrews] having, without any just cause, left my house and protection, this notice is to caution all persons against suffering her to contract debts on my account, as no such debts will hereafter be paid by me.  In justice to myself and my children and by the advice of my neighbors and friends, I have been induced to take this course, Peleg Andrews, Vestal [Broome Co. NY], July 12, 1837.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, July 1, 1846

Marriages

In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] on the 28th ult by Rev. Mr. Bixby, Mr. Solomon Bundy of Oxford, to Miss Roxanna Hitchcock, formerly of Connecticut.

At Tallmadge, Michigan, on the 17th ult. by Rev. F.H. Cumming, Charles H. Ray, M.D. formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Jane Yates daughter of Edmond G. Per Lee, Esq. of North Norwich.

In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on Wednesday last by Rev. J. Duncan, Mr. Ezra Barnett, merchant, of Morrisville, Madison Co. [NY] to Miss Martha Emeline [Packer] daughter of Mr. James Packer.

News Item

Two weeks ago, catching up a flying report, we announced the death of S.S. Bowne Esq. late of Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] but now of Rochester [Monroe Co. NY]. We are exceedingly rejoiced to say that that report was unfounded and that Mr. B., although his life was despaired of at one time, now bids fair to recover his health.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, July 8, 1846

Marriage

In German [Chenango Co. NY] on the 5th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Lee, Mr. Seneca Jayne of Cayuga Co. [NY] to Miss Lucinda Flint of the former place.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, July 22, 1846

Death

In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] on the 11th inst. at the residence of her grandparents (Dea. Isaac Foote), Miss Harriet Elizabeth [Foote] daughter of Justin Foote, deceased, aged 20 years.

She was taken sick and died while on a visit at her grandparents with whom she had spent the greater part of her life, till about two and a half years since, when she went to reside with her widowed mother in Batavia.  when she came to Smyrna, far from herself and friends was the thought that her youthful and lovely form was so soon to waste away by disease and to find a grave by the side of her father's sleeping dust.  All that love and skill could do was done to arrest the progress of her disease.  It gradually became evident that death had marked her for his prey; that her time had come.  To her friends it was consoling that she was prepared to meet it.  At an early age she manifested an attachment to Christ and made a public profession of her faith in Him.  By her life she adorned her profession; on the bed of sickness she was meek, patient and submissive.  She had a desire to live, but wished above all, the will of the Lord done.  Till the last hour, she confessed herself to be a sinner and if saved it must be by nothing she had done, but all through the merits of Christ.  She peacefully fell asleep in Jesus (as we trust) having many to weep over her early grave.