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

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

Six Cents Award

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

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

Marriages

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

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

Deaths

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

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

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

_______________________________

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

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

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, April 6, 1836

Marriages

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

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

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

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, April 20, 1836

Deaths

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

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

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, May 11, 1836

Marriages

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

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

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, May 18, 1836

Marriages

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

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

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

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

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

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

Deaths

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

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

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, May 25, 1836

Deaths

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

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

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

Vital Records, Madison County, NY (1867)

 Oneida Dispatch, Oneida, NY, May 11, 1867

Marriages

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

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

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

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

Deaths

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fatal Railroad Accident

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

Civil War Letter, May 1861, William B. Downer

 Oneida Sachem, Oneida, NY, May 9, 1861

Civil War Letter from William B. Downer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yours for Freedom, William B. Downer

____________________________

Sharp Shooters Attention

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

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

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

3rd Ability to learn the necessary rifle practice.

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

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

________________________________

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

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

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

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

________________________________

Obituary, William Bainbridge Downer

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

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

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

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

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

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

 McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, February 7, 1850

Marriage

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

Death

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

Murder at Sangerfield [Oneida Co. NY]

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

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

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

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

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, February 21, 1850

Marriage

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

Deaths

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

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

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, February 21, 1880

Marriages

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

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

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

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

Death

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

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

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY (1808, 1873)

 Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, September 17, 1808

Run Away

From the subscriber, Jonathan Rouse, near 18 years of age, about 5 feet 6 inches high, of a fair complexion; had on a tow shirt, trousers and frock; took away a new long black coat, a light jacket, black striped pantaloons, light fur hat, muslin shirt and handkerchief, two pock do., a pair of cotton socks and a new pair of shoes.  I forbid all persons harboring or employing him. Whoever will bring him back to me, shall have six cents reward, and no charges paid.  Stephen Hague, Otsego [Otsego Co. NY], Sept. 1, 1808

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, November 12, 1808

Marriage

Married by the Reverend D. Nash, at New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY] on Saturday evening last.  Doctor Willis Edson to the amiable Miss Sally Noble, daughter of Elanthan Noble, Esq.

Death

In London, Mr. Henry Ferguson, aged 94, a native of America.  He was found dead near the towers and 15,000 [pounds] in bank notes were discovered sewed in between his ragged, filthy clothes; the produce doubtless of his many years active employment in the asking of alms trade.  But what is more -astonishing, and will be of more consequence to the literary world, is, that a bundle of manuscripts in his own handwriting was found in his pocket, containing a concise, learned and elegant history of the progress of the arts and sciences in Asia, Africa, Europe and America, from the period of the Roman Augustus up to the year 1808.  In his wretched hovel near the city a very valuable library was found, and the antiquarians and booksellers have bid high to obtain it.  He was always very modest for a beggar, and was known to have done numerous acts of charity to orphan poor.  It was remarked of him that when he was out of begging, he was employed either in reading or writing and being the master of the various European languages and always at home with any passer by, his pleasing address and quaint remarks obtained him many friends.  It is not known that he left him any relations in England or in the United States of America.

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, November 26, 1808

Death

Died at Onondaga on the 21st of October inst. Sarah Catharine Hopper, only daughter of Jasper Hopper, Esq. aged three years, eight months and twelve days.  Her death was occasioned by her clothes catching fire while at play.  She lived but about twenty-four hours after the fatal catastrophe happened which terminated her existence.  Thus, died a sprightly and amiable little child and with her the high hopes which her fond parents had formed.  From death's arrest no age is free, and virtue and innocence however spotless, cannot for a moment prevent their possessor from descending down to the grave.

"Such is the state of man, / Today he puts forth the tender leaves of hope; / Tomorrow blossoms / The third day comes a frost, a killing frost; / And then he falls."

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, December 10, 1808

Marriage

Married at Lynchburgh (Virg.) Mr. John Hicks to Mrs. Mildred K. Lucas.  This marriage was attended with some singular circumstances.  The young widow had engaged her hand to Mr. Thomas Cobb, a respectable gentleman aged 72 years.  The day appointed for their marriage had arrived, great preparations were made and many friends, &cc assembled to enjoy the scene, when lo! young Mr. Hicks appeared, made suit to the fair widow, prevailed upon her to discard her old lover and marry him, and the ceremony was immediately performed.  The ladies who witnessed this marriage immediately retired, went into a committee of the whole, passed several spirited resolutions against the shameful conduct of the widow and highly approbatory of Mr. Cobb's fortitude under the conflicting passions of love revenge, &cc. and sent him an affectionate letter of condolence of his melancholy rebuff, to which the good old man returned a very grateful and tearful answer.

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, December 24, 1808

Marriage

Married on Monday evening last, by the Rev. Mr. Bradford, Mr. George Pearson, merchant, to Miss Judith Van Vechten eldest daughter of Teunis T. Van Vechten, Esq. all of this city [Albany, Albany Co. NY].

Death

Died at Boston on the 10th inst., His excellency James Sullivan, Esq. Governor of Massachusetts, aged 63 years.

Deserted

From this rendezvous, Chester G. Wood born in Saratoga County, State of New York, aged about 21 years; 5 feet 8-1/2 inches high; dark complexion, brown hair, blue eyes and by occupation a farmer.  He was dressed in a grey coat, dark vest, blue pantaloons seamed with white and brown hat; had also a pair of olive corduroy pantaloons.  Whoever will apprehend said deserter and lodge him in any gaol or deliver him at any military post, in the United States, or at this rendezvous shall receive twenty dollars reward.  B. Williams, Jun., Lieut, Com. of a detachment of the U.S. Regt. Light Dragoons, Recruiting Rendezvous, Cooperstown, Dec. 1808.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, October 15, 1873

Marriages

Oct. 8:  At the home of the bride in Morris [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. O. Perkins, Mr. W.R. Leonard to Miss Flora A. Wing.  Printers remembered.

Oct. 8:  In Zion Church, Morris [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. C.T. Coer, G. Clayton Peck of New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Eva R. [Holcomb] daughter of Edgar Holcomb, of Morris.  Printers remembered.

Under the proper head will be found the marriage of four of our young people.  They all have the good wishes of hosts of friends for a long, happy and prosperous married life.  May heaven's best gift be theirs to enjoy and when they shall become "old folks," May they have offsprings who will delight to care for and be a comfort to them.

Sept. 18:  By Rev. H. Garlick, Charles A. Johnston of West Exeter [Otsego Co. NY] to Emma Fairchild of Exeter.

Sept. 19:  By the same, George S White of Plainfield [Otsego Co. NY] to Deette Fair of West Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY].

Sept. 19:  By the same, Morgan Coman of West Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY] to Seraphine Gates of Brookfield [Madison Co.  NY].

Death

A little daughter of Jay Eccleston of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] aged seventeen months, on Friday last fell into a kettle of boiled vegetables, which had been prepared for the family dinner and just taken from the stove and was so badly scalded that death ensued on Saturday. [Florine Eccleston d. 8 Oct. 1873, age 1 year, buried Riverside Cemetery, South New Berlin]

Vital Records, Madison (1873), Chenango (1880) Counties, NY

 Democratic Union, Oneida, NY, June 19, 1873

Marriages

COOL - DOYLE:  In Little Falls, June 1, by Rev. J.L.D. Webster, Pastor First Universalist church, Mr. J. Harris Cool and Miss Maggie Doyle both of Oneida [Madison Co. NY].

FULLER - EASTMAN:  At Eaton Hotel, Eaton Village [Madison Co. NY], June 15 by Leander J. White, Mr. Maron Fuller of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] and Miss Mary L. Eastman of Eaton.

NEWTON - PERKINS:  In Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] June 11 by Rev. E.M. Barber, Charles M. Newton and Julia F. Perkins, both of Cazenovia.

LAMB - WEBBER:  In New Woodstock [Madison Co. NY] June 11, at the house of Winthrop Webber, by Rev. A. LeRoy, Calvin A. Lamb and Ellen L. Webber.

MOFFITT - CORBIN:  In New Woodstock [Madison Co. NY], June 11, by Rev. A. LeRoy, George H. Moffitt and Ann Eliza Corbin.

NEWTON - PERKINS:  In Chicago, June 4, by the Rev. Charles Edward Cheney, Mr. Edwin H. Newton formerly of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] and Gertrude [Perkins] eldest daughter of A.H.H. Perkins, Esq. all of Chicago.

BREZEE - SHELDON:  In Chittenango [Madison Co. NY], June 8, by Rev J. Henry Enders, Mr. Herbert E. Brezee of Chittenango Station, and Miss Libbie S Sheldon of East Boston.

WINN - BROOKS:  In Bernhards Bay [Oswego Co. NY], June 10 by Rev. Isaac Turney, Mr. Judson D. Winn and Miss Fanny E. Brooks.

SIMONTON -GIBBON:  In Clinton [Oneida Co. NY], June 1 by the Rev. T.R. Hudson, Arthur Simonton of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] and Maggie Gibbon.

DAVIES - WELCH:  In Madison, Madison Co. NY], June 6(?) at the residence of the bride's father, by Rev. George Hardy, Thomas S. Davies and Nettie B Welch all of Madison.

FAY - STROUGH:  At the residence of the bride's father, at Peterboro [Madison Co. NY] June 18, by Rev. G.T.L. Bontillier, of St. John's Church, Oneida, Fannie [Strough] only daughter of J.A. Strough and J. Otis Fay of Rochester [Monroe Co. NY] son of G.B.W. Fay of Bath, N.Y. [Steuben Co.].

To Mr. and Mrs. J.A. Strough

I thank you my friends for this kind invitation / To witness the wedding Fannie and Fay; / Heaven bless the young pair in that living relation, / In which they'll be bound on their sweet weddign day.

But, sure, am too old any more to attend / Such gay, festive scenes as most weddings display; / So, dear Fanny, in lieu of a kiss from your friend, /Accept box and gloves which be sent you today.  Peterboro, June 12, 1873  Gerrit Smith

Deaths

PARKER:  In Wampsville [Madison Co. NY], June 10, of pneumonia, Mrs. Elizabeth [Parker] wife of O.N. Parker aged about 46(?) years.

SKINNER:  In Madison [Madison Co. NY] June 3, Francis V. Skinner aged 33 years 4 months and 3 days.

McCONNELL:  In Clinton [Oneida Co. NY] June 5, Matilda M. McConnell aged 57 years.

HAIGHT:  In Macedon Centre [Wayne Co.. NY], June 6, Amy Haight [Crosby], wife of Warren Crosby, formerly of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] in the 70th year of her age.

ROWELL:  Hamilton, Madison Co. NY:  Amasa Rowell, one of our oldest citizens died yesterday, aged 86 years.

HUBBARD:  On Wednesday morning of last week, the Wife of Hon. Demas Hubbard died very suddenly at the Messenger House, Oneida Lake.  The day previous, Mr. Hubbard and his wife, with a party of friends, went to the lake to enjoy a pleasant fishing excursion, and that evening, Mrs. Hubbard, who, for many years had been in rather ill health, retired feeling quite as well as usual. About twelve o'clock Mr. H. was awakened by his wife, who seemed to be suffering very severely from a bilious attack, it was supposed, to which she had long been subject. He, with the rest of the house, immediately took every means within their power to alleviate the sufferings of Mrs. Hubbard, but to no effect. She died in the course of a few short hours.  Her death is attributed to heart disease. She was aged fifty-six years, and leaves a large circle of friends. [Caroline Franklin Hubbard, d. 11 June 1873, aged 67 years]

Chenango American. Greene, NY, June 17, 1880

Marriages

At the residence of the bride's parents, in this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], June 9th, by Rev. J.F. Taunt, Mr. Henry Hagaman to Miss Mary [Olin] daughter of Mr. E.C. Olin, all of this town.

Genegantslet, Chenango Co. NY:  Another one gone.  On Wednesday evening of last week, Mr.  Henry Hagaman was married to Miss Mary Olin at the residence of the bride's parents, at the lower Corners. To the happy couple we extend our joy.

At Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY] June 9th, by Rev. C.G Wood, Mr. John B. Johnson to Miss Frances E. Scofield, both of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] June 15th, Mrs. Lucretia [Gray] relict of the late Warren Gray, aged 76 years.

Mrs. Warren Gray, after a long illness, passed quietly out into the other world on Monday morning, ripe in honor and golden years.  Mrs. Gray was an old resident of this town, and was a perfect type of a modest, unassuming lady.  Kind and gentle, a faithful wife and loving mother, a reliable friend and neighbor, she has gone out from among us, mourned not only by those near and dear to her by the ties of relationship, but by hosts of neighbors and friends, who have known and honored her many years.  Peace to the ashes of the dear friend of our boyhood and riper years.

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] suddenly, June 14th, Mr. Ira Palmer, in the 84th year of his age.

Mr. Ira Palmer, an early settler of this town, died at the residence of his son-in-law, Mr. L.E. St. John, Sunday evening.  Mr. Palmer has been an active businessman in his day, and for 40 or more years of his life was one of the largest dairymen in this section of the State.  In his younger days he was engaged in clearing land and lumbering in this town and up to about fifteen years ago, he was one of our most energetic businessmen.  He reared quite a large family of children, all respected, first-class citizens.  But he has passed away, ripe in years and has left a character for honesty and integrity that his friends may well feel proud of.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. N] June 14th, Mrs. Eliza [Spencer] wife of Elihu Spencer, aged 63 years, 9 months, 12 days.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] June 7th, Phebe D. Shaw [Smith] wife of Edwin Smith, aged 63 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] June 5th, Miss Julia M. Mason in the 39th year of her age.

In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], June 8th, Julia L. [Per Lee] wife of Isaac B. Per Lee, aged about 83 years.

At the County House [Preston, Chenango Co. NY] June 11th, Eugene Padgette, aged 80 years, formerly from Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

In Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY] Juen 16th, Mr. Reuben Davis, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], aged 82 years.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1848)

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, March 15, 1848

Marriages

In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY] on the 12th inst., by the Rev. W.S. Smith, Mr. Benjamin F. Baldwin of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Amy R. Baldwin of the former place.

On the 1st inst., by Rev. J.S. Mitchell, Mr. Phillip A Sweet of Otselic [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Mary Williams of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

Death

At his residence in North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] on Wednesday morning, the 8th inst. of pulmonary apoplexy, Isaac S Bockee, Esq.  in the 61st year of his age.

The sudden decease of our worthy friend, whose obituary is just recorded, sensibly reminds us that "in the midst of life we are in death." Although for some days previous to his departure from the scenes of earth, he was quite indisposed, no serious apprehensions were entertained as to his recovery, until there arose a new combination of symptoms, alike fearful in their nature and fatal in their tendency.  The dead cannot profit by this solemn dispensation, but the lesson to us and to all is of too practical use ever to be forgotten, and the admonitory voice is "be ye also ready," as we have every reason to hope and trust was he, whose mortal remains now lie moldering back to their mother earth.  Of the history of the deceased, the writer of this imperfect tribute knows but little, but from the happiness of a short acquaintance and the information gathered of his character, and his virtues, from an extensive and exalted reputation, we believe we are more than warranted in saying the town in which he has so long resided, the church of which he was a member, as well as others, and the immediate community where he lived, have sustained in him a loss which can never be made up.  Many are the unfortunate sons of adversity, whose hearts have been made glad by the munificence of his benefactions.  He exhibited evidence of a sound judgment, a well-balanced and a well stored mind, and possessed qualifications of a superior order.  Home, with him, was the theatre of his fondest hopes, the domestic circle and the friends he loved, the center of his best affections, the extent of his ambition.  But he is now gone from amongst us and from our midst.  And if missed so much by all, so much by those who knew him least, who can estimate the loss and the loneliness of the bereaved family, of which he was the husband and their head.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, March 22, 1848

Marriages

In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on Wednesday morning last, by Rev. S. Goodale, Mr. Edward Tucker to Miss Eliza Roberts.

Also by the same, on Thursday evening, Mrs. Levi Brown to Miss Elizabeth Dyke, both of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].

Death

In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], on the 12th inst. Mrs. Mary A. [Chase] wife of Lester Chase, Esq. aged 21 years.

The deceased fell a victim to Consumption, and although suffering the debility and -?- which usually accompany that gradually wasting disease, yet she was -?- in an -?- degree by the power of Christian patience and fortitude. [rest unreadable]

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, March 29, 1848

Marriage

On the 23rd inst., by the Rev. S. Goodale, Mr. Charles L. Thompson of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Elizabeht A. Wait daughter of Dr. W.C. Wait, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

At his residence, in Ithaca [Tompkins Co. NY] on Sunday afternoon the 19th inst. Ben Johnson, Esq. in the 65th year of his age.  Another of our distinguished citizens has departed!

He was stricken with paralysis on the Monday morning preceding his death and lingered almost wholly unconscious until the afternoon of the Sabbath.  In the midst of his family and in apparent health, without warning or anticipation, the bolt of Death found and suddenly prostrated him.  Mr. Johnson was extensively known as an eminent lawyer.  The energies of his life had been devoted with great fidelity to his profession.  He was an early resident of Ithaca and for kindness of heart, for unostentatious philanthropy, for active enterprise, and a uniform interest in the prosperity of the place, no man was more respected and beloved.  This was well illustrated by the anxious interest manifested by all our citizens when they learned that he was struggling with the great conqueror, Death,  But he was deeply imbued with those principles which would insure to him the final triumph.  He was a Christian, humble and trusting and has gone to his reward.  Ithaca Daily Chronicle, March 21.

________________________

At Cincinnati, Ohio, on the 25th Feb., Joseph B. Fenton, Esq., son of J.S. Fenton, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], in the 33rd year of his age.

Mr. Fenton had established himself in that city in the practice of the law, and although a young practitioner, had acquired an enviable reputation for his critical understanding of the philosophy of legal science.  Among the prominent lawyers of longer practice than himself in Cincinnati, he was recognized as one of their number.  He has fallen in the springtime of life, amid ardent aspirations for the future in the immaturity of his fame.

Civil War Letter, May 1862

 Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, June 11, 1862

Civil War Soldier's Letter

Lexington, Mo., May 30th, 1862

Dear Herald:  Although I have headed my letter "Lexington," yet, in reality, I am on board the steamboat Sioux City, from Fort Leavenworth to St. louis, and probably to Pittsburg Landing, Tennessee, and now taking on coal at the place indicated in the date of my letter.

When I wrote you last, I was on my way to New Mexico.  Our forces were being concentrated at Fort Riley, and everything seemed to bid fair for a pleasant though unnecessary journey across the plains.  Immense quantities of provisions, clothing and other stores were provided.  Nothing was spared to render the expedition effective and their equipment complete.  Our forces consisted of 3500 men, exclusive of artillery. We had a train of 500 wagons, 3000 mules, and about thirty ambulances.

On Saturday, May 17th, all arrangements were completed and orders issued.  The Kansas troops were to march on Monday, the Wisconsin troops were to follow on Tuesday.  On Sunday at 9 A.M. a courier arrived with orders, which, on being opened, countermanded our previous orders and directed us to report at once at St. Louis.  So, on the following Monday and Tuesday, the various regiments, with the exception of the Kansas 2d, began their countermarch down the valley of the Kaw, in the order above indicated, instead of across the plains.  We had a pleasant time on our march to Leavenworth. The distance is one hundred and thirty-five miles.  The first seventy-five miles lay down the valley of the Kaw, by the same road which we travelled from Lawrence to Fort Riley.  If this valley was beautiful when first we saw it in early spring, while yet bare and brown, it is now lovely beyond description when the first fresh verdure covers every rough hillside and a wealth of foliage hides every gnarled and blasted branch in the forest.

At Indianola, near Topeka, we left the valley and took our way over the rolling prairie.  Here, again, new beauties met our eyes.  Openings appeared here and there on the swells, and groves in all the hollows.  Little streams were numerous, each with its belt of timber enriching the landscape.  All the way you might have heard us exclaiming, "Beautiful," "Lovely," I never saw the like of this before.

As I remarked before, we started on Tuesday, May 19th, and on the following Sabbath we reached Easton, on the Big Stranger River, fourteen miles from Leavenworth.  Nothing of interest occurred on the march, save one day when the Wisconsin 13th attempted to race with us, and we beat them just fourteen miles, making thirty-five miles on a very warm day, and carrying our guns and accoutrements.  Such a march, for the fun of the thing, I do not think was ever made before.  by this days' march we overtook the troops who left Fort Riley one day in advance of us.  On Monday the whole brigade advanced three miles and encamped eight miles from Fort Leavenworth.  The following day we were ordered to the Fort. We marched down in the afternoon and encamped on the Government reserve. That is a charming spot.  From a fortified bluff commanding the fort, you have a view of large fields, each enclosing hundreds of acres, and covered with clover and red top just now in blossom; green lawns, here a grove carefully trimmed, there an impenetrable thicket, cottages half hidden among the trees, the distant city, the fort which is a city of itself, and the many camps with white tents, and a gentle slope now just seen over the crest of some rising ground, pressing outward, or lifting their white forms on the uplands far away to the city.

The following morning, our brigade was reviewed by Gen. Blunt, commandant of the Department of Kansas; preparations meanwhile going on for our departure.  the 1st, 7th and 8th Kansas, left that day.  The next morning, the remainder of the brigade, consisting of the 12th and 13th Wisconsin, 2d Kansas and 8th Wisconsin batteries, embarked on four boats and together steamed away down the Big Muddy, amid the roar of cannon, the shouts of the multitude and the stiring notes of music on boat and shore.

Thus, ended our experience in Kansas.  If I were called upon to give a name to the military operations in that state, I would call it the expedition of the Kansas Relief Committee.  Troops have been scattered in every direction and everywhere the people seemed resolved to make all they could out of them.  Said one man who had been in our camp selling sour milk and other slop: "Sending soldiers out here has been a good thing. It has done us a great deal of good.  We've made sixty dollars out of the little we have sold."  People would come into camp and sell milk to the soldiers for a dime a quart, which proved to be skimmed and sour at that.  It is no wonder that the boys resumed their old habits of jayhawking, though it is to be regretted that they did so.

June 3d, near Caire, Ill. - We had a pleasant trip down the river to St. Louis.  We ran during the day and tied up at night, for the river, though now very high, is full of sand bars and snags, which make navigation dangerous. We saw many manifestations of loyalty all along the river; many of these were no doubt genuine, but of many of them I could but call to mind the old song.  

"When the devil was sick, the devil a monk would be / When the devil got well, a devil of a monk was he."

The scenery along the river for the first half of the trip is monotonous, low bottoms covered with cotton wood being nearly all that is to be seen.  From Ginsgow to the mouth of the river, bluffs are constantly in sight, now sloping and cultivated like our eastern hill sides and again forming for miles a perpendicular wall of rock sixty to seventy feet in height.

Business is everywhere at a standstill. The towns are lonely and the levees deserted.  The prosperity of Missouri for the present is destroyed.

We arrived at St. Louis on Sunday about noon and anchored at Bloody Island, yesterday (Monday), we took on supplies, toward evening we steamed up and were off to the wars again.   Laurens

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1880)

 Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, February 27, 1880

Marriage

FINCH -FINCH: In Masonville [Delaware Co. NY] Feb. 12, by the Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. W.D. Finch of Tompkins [Delaware Co. NY], and Miss Nellie Finch of Masonville.

Belden, Broome Co. NY:  Hiram Bingham was married last Thursday to Miss Alvira Remington of Wells Bridge [Otsego Co. NY].  the ceremony was at Binghamton [Broome Co. NY].

Guilford, Chenango Co. NY:  On Monday evening last, about fifty friends of Supervisor Baldwin and wife, gave them a genuine and agreeable surprise, it being the fifteenth anniversary of their marriage, leaving many valuable tokens of their regard.  After a supper, such as only Guilford ladies can furnish, and an evening spent in social enjoyment, all parted, wishing they might celebrate their golden wedding.

Mt. Upton, Chenango Co. NY: We have to chronicle the marriage of Steve Crain and Miss Libbie Bailey at the house of H.L. Crain, Thursday evening, Feb. 12th, by Rev. I.J. Bailey. But what is most surprising is that they kept it secret for two whole days, something rare. But when it leaked out, Steve set them up for the boys (cigars, I mean).

Deaths

Mrs. Ziba Saunders, formerly of this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co. NY] died at the residence of her daughter in Owego [Tioga Co. NY] last week.  Mrs. S. was the mother of Oscar F. Saunders, of Corning Steuben Co. NY]

By reference to our death notices, it will be seen that Oscar F Evans died on Monday last.  Mr. Evans has resided in Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] nearly all his life and made many friends.  He had been suffering with a disease of the lungs for nearly a year prior to his death, but at the last, his death was quite sudden and unexpected.  The deceased was well informed on the general topics of the day and enjoyed a friendly discussion with his neighbors.  he will be greatly missed by his associates.

Mrs. Abbott, the seven times married woman of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], has died at the age of eighty-eight years.  Her seventh husband, to whom she was married last year, survives her.  Her maiden name was Williams and she always lived in that neighborhood.  She first married a man named Truax, and then she was successively wedded to Messrs. Riggs, Farrow, Wallace, Berry, Pratt and Abbott.  Her widowhood seldom exceeded a year.  She never became a mother, but many of the best citizens of Chenango County called her such, six of her seven husbands being widowers, with children ranging in number from two to a dozen.  There is not half a score of families in the county but can trace some marriage relationship to her.  She was a good woman and a consistent member of one of the orthodox churches. The majority of her husbands were well-to-do farmers and it is said that she leaves a snug fortune, received form her deceased husbands.

We record this week the death of one of our oldest inhabitants, Mr. Hiram Chase, aged 77 years.  His illness was long and severe.  He was a former resident of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY]

Mr. Wiley, of New Ohio [Broome Co. NY] has been greatly afflicted of late.  About three months since he buried his wife, who left him a pair of twins.  Last Sabbath, one of them was buried, and the other is sick and will probably die.  Mr. Wiley, after his marriage, went to Ohio and located, expecting to make it his permanent home, but his wife died and he returned to New Ohio with the little ones. Death effects great changes in our circumstances.

Unadilla Valley, Chenango Co. NY:  H.M. Gates was sadly afflicted by the death of his child, on Friday, and his wife is low with the same disease - diphtheria.

Harpursville, Broome Co. NY:  Mrs. Latham, of Connecticut, who has been visiting at Mr. Jesse Brown's at this place, and who was seriously injured at Belden [Broome Co. NY] some time since, an account of which was published in the Republican at the time, died suddenly last Sabbath morning, of heart disease. She had just taken breakfast and was having her hair combed, when she exclaimed, "How my heart flutters," and instantly expired.  Her friends were telegraphed for, and she was taken to her late home for burial.

News Item

Card of Thanks:  Unadilla, Feb. 23d, 1880:  To the Hon. Joseph Bush and many other personal friends and strangers, we tender our sincere thanks for kindness and sympathy shown us on the occasion of the burial of our mother at Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] in St. Peter's churchyard, last Friday.  May the last words of one who was born, married, and buried in your midst, be each of yours in death, "Happy - happy - heaven." On behalf of her family.  Dexter Newell Owens, J. Evans Owens [Patience E., wife of A.G. Owens, Died Feb. 18, 1880, Aged 57 years 3 m's & 16 d's]