Sunday, October 11, 2026

Vital Records, Otsego (1862), Chenango (1880) Counties, NY

 Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, April 9, 1862

Death

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] March 26th, of the diptheria, Anna [Clark] daughter of Tompkins & Sarah J. Clark, aged 2 years, 1 month and 15 days.

Beautiful and lovely / She was but given, / A fair bud of earth, / To blossom in Heaven

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, April 16, 1862

Marriage

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] by Milton Gurney, Esq. Mr. Newton Keith to Miss Maria Snediker, of Laurens.

Deaths

In Davenport [Delaware Co. NY] April 12th, Albert J. Evans son of James and Elizabeht Evans, aged one y ear 6 months and -?- days.

We are informed that on Sunday last, James Follett, Esq., an old and respected citizen of Otego [Otsego Co. NY], drowned himself.  He jumped from the bridge which crosses the Susquehanna River at that place.  His body had not been found up to our latest advices.  We understand that it is thought that Mr. F. had not been in his right mind for some time.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, April 30, 1862

Death

In Meredith [Delaware Co. NY] on the 13th inst. Charles Reynolds aged 59 years.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, January 14, 1880

Marriages

ROOT - YORK:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] Jan. 7th by Rev. Dr. Haynes, Mr. Fred W. Root of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Nellie C. York of Norwich.

DRAKE - SANDERS:  At Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY] Jan. 6th by Rev. D. Fradenburgh, Mr. William H. Drake of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Eliza D. Sanders of Colesville [Broome Co. NY].

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1855-1880:  On Saturday last, Mr. and Mrs. James H. Root of this town [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY] celebrated the twenty-fifth anniversary of their marriage.  Scores of invited guests shared the festivities of the joyful occasion, among them many relatives and friends, from neighboring towns.

The earlier hours of the day passed in friendly conversation and song.  Later the company sat down to a rich repast, Miss Alice acting as mistress of ceremonies.  This over, there came a rendezvous in the parlor, the bride and groom occupying conspicuous seats.  Their pastor, Rev. Mr. Baldwin, extended congratulations on behalf of the guests, closing his address, which was frequently interrupted by merry peals of laughter, with the formal presentation of many choice and beautiful gifts to the couple who had completed a quarter of a century of married life.  Dr. Foote, of Franklin, and Mr. E.M. Haynes followed with happy remarks.  Prayer of thanksgiving was offered and the company presented to the worthy pair.

After singing "Praise God from whom all blessings flow," the company began to disperse, but many lingered until a late hour. The day was one of rare beauty, for midwinter.  Nothing occurred to mar the pleasure of the gathering.  Everyone present could but wish that every day of the now quarter century before their host and hostess, if not as fair without, should be as glad and joyful within their comfortable home at the 10th day of January, 1880.

Deaths

EARL:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] Jan. 1st, Julia Earl, aged 76 years.

YALE:  In Yaleville [Chenango Co. NY] Jan 2d, Caroline [Yale], relict of Willis Yale, aged 75 years.

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GALLAGHER:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Jan. 3d, Mrs. Elizabeth Gallagher, aged 59 years.

Mrs. Gallagher came to this village [Oxford] from Co. Leitrim, Ireland, and has ever since resided here, gaining for herself the esteem of all who knew her as a kind neighbor and most devoted mother to her seven fatherless children - five daughters and two sons, all of whom are living and repaid by their tenderness and attention the debt of gratitude they owed her.  She bore her protracted sufferings with the meekness and fortitude of a true Christian.  No murmur of impatience ever escaped her lips.  Her spiritual adviser and friend, Rev. Father Harrigan testified his knowledge of her patience as worthy of imitation.  The funeral services were held in St. joseph's Church, Tuesday morning and a large congregation including many Protestant friends, there paid the lasty tribute of respect to her memory.  Owing to its being a Festival Day, Requiem mass was omitted and the Church was not draped, but High mass was offered.  The Choir of St. Patrick's Church, Norwich, assisted and Miss Bertie Hickey, the organist, also sang the last touching solo.  Father Harrigan proffered the last prayers at the grave and thus a Christian mother was laid to rest. The beautiful cross and wreath were given by the misses Hickey.  

"Our beloved has departed, / While we tarry broken hearted / In the dreary empty house. / She has reached the home of glory, / Over death victorious.

"Hush the sobbing, when more lightly, / On we travel daily, nightly, / To the rest that she has found.  / Are we not upon the river / Sailing fast to meet forever / On more holy happy ground."

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RICHMOND:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 31st, Lizzie J [Richmond] wife of W.L. Richmond, aged 27 years.

Dear Lizzie, thou are gone to rest, / We shall see thy face no more / Until we too are called away / To meet thee on the other shore.

There is a vacant place at home / Which none of us can fill; / And how we have longed to see your face, / there is none but us can tell.

It was but a short time ago, / You in a moment fell; / And had no time to speak a word, / How strange it is to tell.

Yet we shall have to bear the loss / Of one we all loved so well; / But it seems hard for us to think / We have no lizzie now.

But while we feel the loss so great, / We wish her back no more; / But we trust, that Lizzie we shall meet / Where parting is no more.

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Mrs. Payne mother of Rev. H.N. Payne, pastor of the Presbyterian Church, was found dead in her bed at his residence on Tuesday morning, the 6th inst.  She had been in failing health since her residence here, arriving about two months after Mr. Payne was permanently settled.  That morning he visited her room and found her dead.  The body was warm, showing that death had occurred but a short time previous.  A disease of the heart is thought to have been the cause of her death.  Her age was 76 years.  Her remains were taken to Jamesville, Wisconsin and interred beside those of her husband. [Elizabeth Sarah Nelson Payne, d. 6 Jan. 1880, aged 76 years, wife of Dr. John Payne]

The shocking report reaches his friends in Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY] that Charles H. Wheeler formerly of that town, was recently frozen to death upon the plains of Kansas.  He was a partner in Marlon's Market in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. nY], five or six years ago.

Saturday, October 10, 2026

Vital Records, Madison County, NY (1855)

 Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, January 3, 1855

Marriage

On the 1st inst. by Rev. L.A. Eddy, Mr. William S. Bevens, of Springwater, Livingston Co., N.Y., to Miss Catherine A. Smith of this town [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY].

Deaths

In Annsville [Oneida Co. NY], Nov. 27th, Miss Barbara Hall aged 21 years.

In Niles, Cayuga Co., N.Y. on the 27th of November, Mrs. Maria P. [Partello] wife of J. Bishop Partello, Esq., aged 42 years.

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, January 10, 1855

Marriages

In Nelson [Madison Co. NY] on the 1st inst. by Rev. William Clarke, Mr. Joseph C. Mason of Wayne, Erie Co. Pa, and Miss Fanny H. Booth of Nelson.

In Bethel [Sullivan Co. NY] on the 26th ult. by Rev. L.A. Eddy, Mr. Elijah T. Clark to Miss Julia A. Chilson both of this town [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY].

In Syracuse [Onondaga Co., NY] at the Syracuse House, Dec. 21st by Rev. C.E. Hewes of Cazenovia Cilas T. Brown of Eaton [Madison Co. NY] to Alzina Harp of Oneida [Madison Co. NY].

Death

Mr. Conrad Bush of Pompey, Onondaga County [NY] died at his residence on the 21st ult at the advanced age of 102.  Mr. B. served in the American Army throughout the war of the Revolution, as we learn from the Syracuse Standard and was personally acquainted with Washington and many other leading spirits of the Revolutionary period.  At the time of his death, he resided on land which he received from the Government for services rendered his country.

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, January 17, 1855

Death

At Antioch, Ill., on the 4th inst. Mrs. Laventia Lincoln wife of Horace Lincoln, Esq. aged 31 years.

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Anson W. Spencer

The sudden and awful death of this gentleman last Thursday has created an unusual feeling throughout the whole community.  Amid so many conflicting rumors, it has been difficult to learn the particulars with complete accuracy.  It appears that while descending the hill near Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY] it being slippery and the plank on the road slanting toward the ditch, the wheels of the omnibus slipped off the road, throwing the drier from his seat.  The horses then ran some fifty rods, when one of the wheel horses fell, suddenly upsetting the coach.  Mr. Spencer received such frightful injuries as to cause instant death, although no one else in the stage was badly hurt.  Four or five leaped from the omnibus before it upset, and they all were severely injured.  A Coroner's jury was immediately summoned, and we copy from the Syracuse Journal a portion of the evidence given.

Lyman De Lyne:  sworn; Lives in Bridgeport; came from Fayetteville this morning; came on the omnibus belonging to Mr. Barney; sat on the driver's seat on the outside of the omnibus; there must have been as many as 12 inside; the omnibus was upon wheels; saw the dead body after the accident.  when we were coming down a hill, about a mile and a half east of Syracuse, the driver hauled off toward the north, off of the plank on the ground, and the omnibus kept sheering toward the south, and crowding the horses off, and the omnibus got into the ditch; the omnibus was nearly upset; I jumped off to the south, toward the bank; I looked and saw the driver on the ground, on the same side with me, and had hold of the lines; horses were trotting, and soon started off on a run; the omnibus had not yet turned over; saw a gentleman open the door and jump out; three others did so; at this time the team had got into the road; looked and saw two persons lying on the side of the road, hurt; was frightened; went and picked the man up and tried to get one of them into a house nearby; and another omnibus came along, and took them up; I got into the second omnibus and came along up to the first one, which was about 50 rods off.  

Several other witnesses were here sworn, but their testimony did not change that already adduced.  They all appear to exonerate the driver from any blame.

Rufus Stanton, sworn: Live near where the accident happened.  Mr. S. proceeded to described the condition of the road.  He considered the road in a dangerous condition and that complaints had been made to the Plank Road Company.

Other witnesses were sworn, which corroborated the statements of Mr. Stanton.  

The following verdict was given by the jury:  "That Anson W. Spencer came to his death on the 11th day of January 1855, by the upsetting of the omnibus owned by James Barney, caused by the bad and unsafe condition of the Fayetteville and Syracuse Plant Road, between the premises of Rufus Stanton and Elizabeth Smith, on Gonessic Street and the inexperience of the driver of the omnibus."

The Journal says:  "The above was signed by all but two of the jury.  We understand that seven of the Jury were opposed to giving a verdict censuring the driver, but a majority of them signed the above in order to allow the friends of the deceased to take the body,"

His remains were brought to this village [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY] on Friday, and his funeral took place last Sunday.  Mr. Spencer has been a resident of this village for a number of years and well known as a successful merchant and enterprising businessman.

The Rome Sentinel, pays the following deserved tribute, which we readily insert in our columns:  "Mr. Spencer is known to our citizens generally, having been much among us for several years past.  He was a brother of Archelaus Sspencer and son-in-law of Henry Tibbitts, of this place [Rome, Oneida Co. NY].  Mr. Spencer had taken a deep interest in the improvement of and growth of Rome and has recently erected buildings in our principal streets.  His loss will be severely felt, not only at the place of his residence, where he has many friends, but also in this community."

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, January 24, 1855

Marriage

In Perryville [Madison Co. NY], Jan. 17th, by Rev. C.E. Brown, Mr. Orson C. Fay of Fenner [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Mary E. Sears of Perryville.

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, January 31, 1855

Marriage

In Chittenango [Madison Co. NY], the 25th inst. by the Rev. James Abeil, Mr. S. James Cobb, editor of the Chittenango Herald to Miss Josephine [Barron] daughter of the late Fletcher Barron, of Dansville, Lawrence County [NY].  Another printer's "form" "locked up" and gone to "press." Peace and joy be with him and his happy bride.

Death

At Detroit [MI}, Jan. 20, Cornelia H. [Newbould] wife of Alexander H. Newbould and only daughter of A. Wales.  Mrs. Newbould was born at Smithfield in this county [Madison Co. NY].  She moved to Detroit with her father's family when quite young, where she has since resided.

Friday, October 9, 2026

Vital Records, Broome (1838) , Otsego (1880) Counties, NY

 Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, December 6, 1838

Marriage

Married on the 28th Nov. last, at silver Lake, Susquehanna County, Pa., by the Rev. Charles E. Pleasants, William Main of this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] to Ann [Rose] daughter of Robert H. Rose, Esq. of the former place.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, December 13, 1838

Marriage

In Windsor, Broome County, N.Y. on Thursday, Dec. 5th, by the Rev. James Keeler, of St. Paul's Church, Harpursville, Horatio S. Pierce, Esq. Merchant of the firm of Gillespie & Pierce of Carbondale, Pa., to Miss Sophronia A. Rexford of Windsor.

A thousand blessings on the wedded pair, / Joy courts them on with all her mellow smiles; / May they be happy as the bride is fair, / And constant as old Ocean to her Isles.

With the above the printers received a bountiful fee, together with a flattering notice which we should be happy to adopt as our own, but which we are compelled to omit for want of space.

Death

Died in Vestal [Broome Co. NY] on the 7th Dec. Inst., Mrs. Hannah La Grange, wife of John La Crange, Esq. aged 64 years.

Broome Republican, Binghamton NY, December 20, 1838

Deaths

Died in Harpursville [Broome Co. NY] on Tuesday morning last, Mr. Albert Adams aged about 30 years.

In Homer, Cortland Co. [NY] Dec. 14, at the residence of her son (J.C. margin), Mrs. Mary Marvin aged 73 years.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, December 27, 1838

Death

Died in this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] on the 23d instant. Mrs. Catharine Durkee, wife of Mr. Joseph Durkee.

In this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] on Sunday last, Miss Mary Jane Capron, aged 20 years.

On the 2d November last, near Battle Creek, Calhoun Co., Michigan, Mr. GilesAndrus formerly of this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY]

At Montgomery, Alabama on the 12th inst., after a short illness, Mrs. Augusta [Fuller] wife of William Fuller, of Augusta, Georgia, and youngest daughter of Gen. Erastus Root, of Delaware County, N.Y.

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Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, December 5, 1838:  Died at Peoria Illinois, Nov. 14th, after a protracted and painful sickness, Mr. Aaron Russell, late of Windsor, Broome County [NY].

Peoria Register, Peoria, IL, November 24, 1838:  "And when all the congregation saw that Aaron was dead, they mourned for Aaron thirty days, even all the house of Israel."

It is proper to mourn for the dead, and especially when the church and society have lost one of their ablest pillars and brightest ornaments.

Aaron Russell was born in Cheshire, Connecticut, November 6, 1795.  His mother being a woman of piety, he was early consecrated to God, and when about the age of 20, he publicly acknowledged those vows which bound him to the Lord's.

Living in a new county (Broome County, N.Y.) his early advantages to obtain an education were very limited.  Consequently, he was compelled to rise to a standard of mental culture of more than ordinary attainment by his own energy and perseverance.  For some time, he was a successful school teacher, and for more than eight years, he labored faithfully and successfully in the tract cause.  Ill health compelled him to relinquish the post of usefulness in this department, which he had sustained seven years in Boston, when he sought a home in the west.  While in Boston, his integrity, activity and efficiency in doing good, secured for him the confidence and affection of the Christian community. When afflicted, he also shared in their substantial sympathy.  

On one occasion he was advised by his physician to take a journey, and while deliberating on the question of going alone, the following kind note came to hand:  "Knowing and valuing as I do the society and sympathies of an affectionate wife, the enclosed fifty dollars is an expression of my desire that your dear wife should accompany you on your contemplated journey for the restoration of your health.  Your affectionate brother, in Christ."

When on the eve of leaving Boston, another note was received signed by gentlemen whose praise is in all the churches, enclosing one hundred and fifty dollars, "as an expression of their sympathy and affection."

Such sympathy is worth more than floods of tears from those who feel everywhere but in their pockets.  On coming to the west, he did not leave his religion behind him.  He felt at liberty nowhere under no circumstances to lay aside the badge of his discipleship.  He was a man of Christian decisiion.

Sometimes, perhaps, his manner left the impression that he was a man of iron rigidity and unbending obduracy.  Yet, if Christian decision implies a clear perception of truth and duty, and moral courage to perform duty, though the world should be against him; if it implies trust in God and a willingness to submit to the accomplishment and results of every work to Him - Aaron Russel was a man of decision.

He was not regardless of public opinion, yet the Bible was his standard of right and wrong; its precepts his directory; its principles his rule.  As was said of the late lamented Dr. Bartlett, he also dared to do right.  When such men fall, where shall we look for those who will fill their places?

In the death of Mr. R. a wife is written a widow, a church is bereaved of one of its most active members and elders, a Sabbath school of its devoted superintendent, the cause of benevolence of a warm patron and friend, and society of one of its most efficient men.  His end was peaceful, his life departing like the dying taper.  "And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, write.  Blessed are the dead which died in the Lord."

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, March 11, 1880

Marriage

At Granger's hotel, South Valley [Cattaraugus Co. NY], March 7th, by Rev. W.H. Humphrey Theodore Foster of Worcester [Otsego Co. NY] to Mrs. M.E. Dye of Sharon Springs [Schoharie Co. NY].

Deaths

At Fly Creek [Otsego Co. NY] on the 9th inst., Rufus C. [Doubleday] oldest son of Rufus C. and Mary Doubleday, aged 14 years 5 months and 22 days.

In Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY] Feb. 26, 1880, Samuel Ludlam in the 45th year of his age.

In Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY] March 6, George S. [Robinson] youngest son of H.N. Robinson, formerly of this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] in the 20th year of his age. The remains were interred in Lakewood Cemetery on Tuesday.

At Burlington Flats [Otsego Co. NY] Feb'y 21st of diabetes, Lagrand [Kelsey] only child of Silas L. and Minnie Kelsey, aged 4 years 6 months and 16 days.

In Utica [Oneida Co. NY] March 4, John C. Spafard aged 65 years 2 months and 12 days.

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY] on the 22d ult. William Baldwin aged 62 years.  The deceased was a well-known farmer and occupied a portion of the farm upon which his parents, who were among the early settlers of that section, settled more than eighty years ago.  In all the relations of life he was deservedly respected and beloved, as was attested by the large concourse of mourning relatives and friends who followed his remains to the grave on the 26th ult.  Although for many years an invalid and a great sufferer, he bore his suffering with Christian fortitude and patience and died in peace with the Saviour trusting in His precious promises for a happy immortality.  His immediate family, the bereaved widow and a young daughter, may well cherish the hope that their loss, although irreparable, is his eternal gain.

In New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY] Feb. 20, Maria N. [Peck] wife of George I. Peck in the 60th year of her age.  The Morris Chronicle says of this estimable lady:  "We were surprised on Monday morning last to hear that Mrs. George I. Peck of Noblesville [Otsego Co. NY], had died the night previous.  She had been unwell for a few days, but her illness was not considered dangerous. Thus, has passed away a good woman, one who can illy be spared from her home, the church, or neighborhood. Cause of her death, heart disease."

Thursday, October 8, 2026

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1847, 1879)

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, November 3, 1847

Marriage

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] on the 28th, ult. by Elder J. M. Crandall, Mr. Randall Hunt to Miss Phebe Skinner.

Death

On the evening of Friday, the 15th ult. at the residence of his father, Amos Gregory of Mount Upton [Chenango Co. NY] Arvine Gregory aged 20 yrs.

Cut off in the prime of life, he has left his father, mother, brothers and sisters to mourn a fate that might be called untimely, were it not an order of an All wise Providence that the kindest and most devoted, like him, are those often taken away at the time when they are most endeared to their friends and most useful to lighten and cheer the hearts of parents when age seems most to require it.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, November 10, 1847

Marriages

In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] on the 2d inst. by the Rev. J.T. Goodrich, Mr. Joseph Yale to Miss Sarah Root, both of that place.

In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] on the 13th Oct. by the Rev. F. Rogers, Mr. William Betts of Oshawa, Canada West, to Miss Ellen M. Archer of the former place.

Death

In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on Friday evening last, Mrs. Ann R. Clark, aged 49 yrs.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, November 17, 1847

Death

On the 10th inst. at the residence of his grandfather, Darius Adams, in Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY] John Q. Adams aged 13 yrs. son of Darius C. Adams, deceased.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, November 24, 1847

Death

In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on Wednesday evening last, of consumption, Samuel Thorp, Esq. aged 30 years.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, December 4, 1879

Births

Triplets were born to Mrs. Frank May who resides on Front Street, early on Thursday morning last, all boys. The first born died soon after its birth, but the others, with their mother, are doing well.

Marriages

MOELLER - NAGEL:  At the residence of the bride's father, George Nagel, on Tuesday afternoon, Dec. 2d, 1879, by Rev. J.O. Woodruff, Mr. Theodore C.L. Moeller to Miss Katie M. Nagel, all of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

COLE - CHESEBRO: At the Free Baptist parsonage, Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 26th, by Rev. B.F. Marsden, Mr. Francis J. Cole to Miss Anna M. Cheesebro, both of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

LEWIS - VAN SLYKE:  At Pratt's Hollow, Madison Co. [NY], Nov. 19th, by Rev. A.D. Webster, Mr. Henry T. Lewis of White Store [Chenango Co. NY] (Norwich) to Miss Minnie E. Van Slyke of the former place.

RAABE - OBENAUER:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 27th, by Rev. S.O. Fulton, Mr. George Raabe of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Christina Obenauer of Guilford.

CRANNEL - PARVY:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 29th, by Rev. M.H. Abby, Mr. George Crannell to Miss Ida E. Parvy, both of Oxford.

BUNNELL - HUBBARD:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 19th by Rev. H.N. VanDeusen, Mr. Charles G. Bunnell to Miss Frankie A. Hubbard all of Greene.

SMITH - TICKNOR:  In Upper Lisle [Broome Co. NY] Nov. 12th, by Rev. M.O. Williams, Mr. George Smith to Miss Hattie Ticknor, both of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

HARRIS - COON:  In DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY] Nov. 25th, by Rev. J. Clarke, Mr. Thomas Marble of DeRuyter to Miss Mattie A Coon of Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY].

PITTS - HAMILTON:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 25th, by Rev. Frank W. Townsend, Mr. Emmett S. Pitts of Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Ella Hamilton of Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY].

BUNNELL - HENDRICKS:  In San Francisco Cal., Nov. 19th, by Rev. C.V. Anthony, Mr. Rufus P. Bunnell, formerly of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Mary Hendricks formerly of Stevensville, Pa.

MERCHANT - HARRIS:  News has just reached us of the marriage on the 25th ult. of Mr. O.D. Merchant of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Mary E. Harris of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], by the Rev. L.M.S. Haynes.  Miss Harris was a former teacher in our Academy, an accomplished lady, and beloved by all her students.  Her marriage with so estimable a gentleman as Mr. Merchant will be hailed with hearty approval.  May they grow younger in each other's affections, and live to hear the old clock "tick, tick, tick, tick, ninety years without slumbering."

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DOING - BLACKMAN:  At the home of the bride's father, Clark Blackman, in South Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 25th, by Rev. J.B. Santee, Mr. Charles D. Doing to Miss Evangeline Blackman, 

A very interesting wedding party convened at the house of Clark Blackman, Esq. in South Plymouth, November 25th, 1879.  The chief interest centered in the marriage of his youngest daughter, Miss Evangeline, to Mr. Charles D. Doing, of the same place.  Rev. J.B. Santee, pastor of the Preston M.E. church officiated.

Plymouth and the adjoining towns were well represented and some even from an adjoining County were present.  All seemed to enjoy the occasion and especially the sumptuous entertainment provided by our liberal host and hostess.  Nature, Art and means in liberal measure were put in requisition to furnish the festive board.  Feasting and hilarity were the order of the day.

The guests manifested their regards for the bridal pair, by many costly and valuable gifts of silverware and other valuable articles, amounting to about $70.  A large bridal bell, wrought of evergreens and decked with flowers was suspended over the heads of the bride and groom, while the ceremony was being performed. A livery was in waiting to convey the happy pair to the cars, whence they departed southward on a tour of observation.

May all their "Doings," small or great, / Prove blessings to their married state.

Deaths

LYMAN:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 1st Mercy [Lyman] wife of Dr. E.S. Lyman, aged 63 years.

CASEY:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 26th, Mrs. Bridget Casey, aged 85 years.

SALEY:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 8th, Mrs. Marinda Saley aged 70 years and 8 months.

NORTHUP:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 27th, Willie [Northup] son of Henry and Lucy A. north up, aged 2 years and 8 months.

PARSONS:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 27th, of apoplexy, Mrs. John D. Parsons. [Abigail White Parsons, aged 51y]

Bainbridge, Chenango Co. NY:  Mrs. John Parsons, an aged lady residing a few miles out of town, died very suddenly last Thursday morning, of apoplexy.  she was interred in the cemetery at this place on Saturday.

SMITH:  In Bennettsville [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 24th, Mr. John Smith, aged 92 years.

John Smith, a veteran of the war of 1812, familiarly known in the vicinity of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] as "Bung eye Smith" died at his residence in Bennettsville on Monday of last week, aged ninety-two years.   He was active until a short time previous to his death, and his periodical visits to Bainbridge were noted for his total abstinence from the use of water as a beverage.  He is said to have been once a wealthy citizen of Albany [Albany Co. NY], but he died destitute.

WAGNER:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 22d, Nellie R. [Wagner] daughter of Samuel O. and Lydia J. Wagner, aged 10 moths and 22 days.

WAGNER:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY] Nov. 20th, of diphtheria, Willie [Wagner] son of Charles Wagner, aged 13 years.

HAKES:  In East Gaines, Orleans Co. N.Y., Nov. 3d, Lucy Ann [Hakes] wife of Percz Hakes, aged 70 years, formerly of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY].

BARTLETT:  In Freeville, Tompkins Co. [NY] Nov. 21st, Lottie F [Bartlett] wife of Dr. John L. Bartlett, aged 20 years, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

HAGAR:  Frederick Hagar, a student of Bainbridge Academy [Chenango Co. NY] the past term, a very upright young man, died very suddenly at his home in Masonville [Delaware Co. NY] on Monday.  

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WAGGONER:  Unadilla Valley [Chenango Co. NY]: The friends of Miss Kittie Waggoner, of Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY] who was a few weeks since a pleasant guest of O. Richmond's are greatly shocked to learn of her sudden death.  She was a young lady of great loveliness of character and unviersally beloved, as the crowds of sympathizing friends who attended her funeral attested.

Carthage NY Republican:  Miss Kittie B. Waggoner of Syracuse, well known in Carthage, died at her home last Thursday [Nov. 13, 1879, aged 23y] after being sick only six days. She was a very estimable young lady and the announcement of her death will bring sadness to a large circle of her warm friends in this village.

Wednesday, October 7, 2026

Vital Records, Delaware County, NY (1836)

 Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, January 13, 1836

Marriage

In Sidney [Delaware Co. NY] on the 7th inst.by Elder Simeon Griswold, Mr. Dwight Pomeroy to Miss Sally Menfore daughter of Garrit Menfore.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, January 20, 1836

Marriages

In Middletown [Delaware Co. NY] on the 13th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Scott, Mr. Horace Woolcott to Miss Margaret Roberts.

At the same place on the 14th inst. by the same, Mr. Benjamin W. Baker to Miss Mary Roberts.

In Roxbury [Delaware Co. NY] on the 7th day of January inst. Putnam County, Illinois, [line unreadable] to Miss Eliza Fraunce of Middletown Delaware County [NY].

In Middletown [Delaware Co. NY] on the 11th inst. by the same, Mr. Matthew Hubble to Miss Amanda Wheelor, both of Middletown.

Deaths

We learn that Mrs. Canfield wife of Mr. Elijah Canfield, of Stamford [Delaware Co. NY] came to her death on the 3d instant, by an injury received from the upsetting of a sleigh.  they were returning from a visit to Mrs. C.'s parents, and when near the head of the Delaware, some part of the harness gave way, by which means the sleigh was turned over and Mrs. C. received an injury which she survived only a few hours.  [Laura Cowley Canfield, d. 3 Jan. 1836, age 28y]

Gen. William North, a veteran of the Revolution, aid-de-camp to Gen. Stuben, died in New York on the 3d inst. at the advanced age of 83.  Gen. N. was for many years a member of the Assembly of this State, speaker of the House, and a Senator in Congress.  He is said to have been the only survivor of the revolution of the same rank.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, February 3, 1836

Death

In Franklin [Delaware Co. NY] on Tuesday the 26th ult., Mrs. Emeline [Hart] wife of the Rev. J.A. Hart in the 33d year of her age.  Beloved while living and lamented in death by all who knew her and most, by those who knew her best.  "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his Saints."

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, February 10, 1836

Marriages

In Andes [Delaware Co. NY] on the 21st ult. by the Rev. E.K. Maxwell, Mr. Andrew Cowan of Bovina [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Jenet E. Beardsley of the former place.

In the same place, on the 27th ult. by the Rev. Mr. Laing, Mr. George N. Clinton to Miss Jane Ann Gibbs, all of Andes.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, February 17, 1836

Marriages

In Meredith [Delaware Co. NY] on Thursday the 11th inst. by A.M. Paine, Esq., Mr. Elijah E. Crane of Delhi [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Selina Munn daughter of Mr. Reuben Munn of the former place.

At the Dutch Church in Ithaca [Tompkins Co. NY] on Tuesday evening, the 9th inst., by the Rev. Mr. Mann, H.C. Seymour, Esq. of Deposit [Delaware Co. NY], Engineer on the New York and Erie Railroad to Miss Mary [Sherrill] daughter of Augustus Sherrill, Esq. of the former place.

At Butternuts, Otsego County [NY] on Thursday the 4th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Wheeler, Mr. Nathaniel Stevenson of Hobart, Delaware County [NY] to Miss Esther Holcomb of the former place.

At Martinsburgh, N.Y. [Lewis Co.] on Wednesday the 10th inst. by Dr. Miller, Capt. R.P. Mather, merchant of Hancock, N.Y. [Delaware Co.] to Belinda [Wheeler] daughter of James Wheeler, Esq. of the former place.

Death

In Middletown [Delaware Co. NY] on Saturday the 13th ult. Mrs. Thankful Grant relict of the late John Grant in the 84th year of her age.  Her early history was, for a female's, peculiarly identified with our national struggle for independence in which her immediate family entered deeply and suffered and sacrificed much.  From her youth she was a meek but decided professor of the religion of Jesus Christ.  For 40 years she was a resident of this county and exerted a moral influence of the most firm and benign character.  Ever the devoted friend of religious principle and effort, her house has always been the home of the ministers of Christ and her heart was ever open to the friends of Christ of every denomination.  Her best exercises of mind were peculiarly marked with lively anticipations of Heaven and strong desires to depart and be with Christ.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, February 24, 1836

Marriages

At Butternuts, N.Y. [Otsego Co.] on Wednesday the 3d inst. by the Rev. Mr. Boyinton, Mr. E.L. Benedict of Deposit [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Lamora S. [Shaw] daughter of Samuel Shaw, Esq. of the former place.

In Sidney [Delaware Co. NY] on the 17th inst. by the Rev. Norman H. Adams, Major Silas Scott of Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Ruth Ann Bryan of the former place.

Tuesday, October 6, 2026

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

 Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, May 28, 1808

Death

Died, at Cornwall, Vt., on the 30th ult. Mrs. Rebecca Clark, aged 106 years.  This is the most remarkable instance of longevity which has ever been known, perhaps in this State.  She lived to see the fifth generation in her own family.  Her posterity is supposed to be between two and three thousand.  She retained her intellectual faculties to a degree very remarkable for such an uncommon age.  She could hear, see and converse, although with considerable difficulty.  Her bodily strength continued to the last and she was able to walk across the house the day preceding her death.  Although her death was sudden, it was not occasioned by any particular disease, nor accompanied with any observable pain.  Nature, worn out and exhausted, met without a struggle, the dissolution to which it has been long and gradually approaching.  She had been for a long time a professor of religion and member of a church, and her piety was such that her friends have a well-grounded confidence that an unusual, protracted life will be succeeded by an infinite existence of blessedness and rest.

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, June 4, 1808

Marriages

Married on the evening of the 28th May last, by the Honorable Elijah H. Metsalf, Esq.  Mr. Ashbel Graves to Miss Aroxey Hamlin, all of this town [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY].

At Burlington [Otsego Co. NY] on Sunday evening last, by the Rev. Mr. Henry Chapman, Doctor Abel Morse of Otsego Village [Otsego Co. NY] to the amiable Miss Mary Hatch of that place.

Death

Died in this town [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] on the 30th May last, Mr. William Dowse, in the eighty-ninth year of his age.  He was born in England the 25th day of December 1710, which he left for America in 1762, where he has since resided and for several of the last years of his life, in this county.  If ever strict undeviating honesty was to be found on earth, it was in him.  His heart was the seat of human kindness - unambitious and unaspiring, he fought only for a competency.  during the period of a long, and for many years an active life, and an extensive intercourse, he had never had a legal controversy and it is believed, not a personal enemy.  Ever cheerful, Frank, open & sincere, he conciliated the affections of all that knew him.  To him avarice, duplicity and insincerity, too often the characteristics of others, were unknown, as charity, humanity and gratitude were his constant companions through life.  In his last moments, he breathed peace and benevolence to all.  To say more might perhaps be considered ostentatious, but to say less, would be withholding the tribute due to such rare, though humble, merit to such exalted virtue.  The murderous victor, in his sanguinary course and the gilded trappings of the sceptered tyrant may catch the vacant gaze, yet on virtue like this, contemplation loves to dwell.

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, June 11, 1808

Death

In England in December last, John Ramsay a seaman, aged CXXV [125].  He served in the fleet under Sir George Rooke at the taking of Gibraltar in 1704.  He retained his faculties to the last.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, June 21, 1825

Deaths

At Canajoharie, Montgomery County [NY] on the 14th instant, Doctor William S. Comstock and assistant Surgeon in the army of the United States, aged thirty-one years.

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At his residence on Staten Island, on Saturday the 17th inst. after a long and painful illness, Daniel D. Tompkins, Esq in the 51st year of his age, late Vice President of the United States.

The New York Gazette of Tuesday says "the remains of the late Daniel D. Tompkins, Esq. were yesterday afternoon attended to the place of interment by numerous relatives, friends and an immense concourse of citizens.  The corpse reached the city on board the steamboat Nautilus at about five o'clock.  The flags of our forts and vessels were hoisted half-mast and minute guns were fired form them and from the Revenda Cutter.  The members of the Court of Errors, now in session at our City Hall and indeed all the official characters of the city, including the Mayor and corporation, paid their last respects to the deceased, whose amiable character and public services ill never be forgotten by a grateful people.  The body was conveyed to St. Mark's church, where the funeral services were performed.  It is to be interred in the family vault at Westchester."  

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From the N.Y. Commercial Advertiser, June 13:  Another bright and beautiful star has set forever!  the Reverend & truly beloved John Summerfield breathed his last at eleven o'clock this morning after a painful illness of near four weeks.  Everyone who knew him, loved him and will mourn.  The Christian Church will mourn, and with the numerous denominations to which he was attached and in which he shone like a meteor of heavenly light, his loss will be irreparable.  He was indeed a meteor.  He shot upon us in a twinkling, shone as it were, but for a moment and sunk to rise upon the world no more.  He was a native of the neighborhood of Manchester, England, in the 27th year of his age and the eight of his ministry.  Of his personal appearance, we need not speak.  Who that has seen him, but retains a distinct impression of his graceful form, his comely features, and the sweet benignity of his countenance beaming as it were celestial light!  Of his character we need not speak. Who that has known him, ever knew a being partaking of the frail nature of humanity, more spotless and lovely!  Of his eloquence we need not speak. Who that has listened to the silver tones of his voice, the fervent strains of his manner, and his soul-moving eloquence, but has felt his bosom thrill within him as he wiped the gushing tear from his cheek.  But he is no more.  That form of beautiful symmetry is laid low. The countenance which but a few weeks since beamed with intelligence and grace, is now cold and pallid. That tongue whose every movement was melody is mute.  But after all, we should not grieve too much for==

"In what a brighter world than this his spirit shines. / How very near he is to Jesus. For sure he must be near / To him in heaven who did so love his name on earth. 

And now he's washed his mortal cares and sins away. /And now he drinks the consolations of a Saviour's love. / And now he tunes his voice to angel themes. / And now he joins a band, the rapture of whose song / An Angel's mind can scarce imagine."

Monday, October 5, 2026

Civil War Letter, March 1862

 Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, April 2, 1862

Civil War Letter

Fort Scott, Kansas, March 16th, 1862

Dear Herald:  Since I wrote you last, there have been some active operations in the West.  The public have no doubt been disappointed in their expectations of the Lane expedition, but there are many reasons why the advance had not been made.  Lane and Hunter are on the best of terms and there has been no jar between them to hinder the undertaking which would have been made according to Lane's program, if at all.  The facts are these:  Hallack's brilliant campaign in Kentucky and Tennessee has done away with the immediate necessity for an advance from this quarter.  To carry on his important undertakings, he was obliged to draw heavily on all the Western States for troops and Hunter, appreciating the exigencies of the case, generously and cheerfully transferred to Hallack all the troops on their way or under orders to march to his department.

I must correct here a wrong impression I may have given in my last letter concerning our noble General Hunter.  He is not at all afraid of setting negroes loose.  There is not a Regiment and hardly a company in his department, but has one or more fugitives, who are always received, fed and protected when they come among us, and this is the more remarkable, as these people are fugitives from professedly loyal masters in many cases and not contrabands.  There are many of these fugitives in Leavenworth and they come over daily and nightly in small squads.  I have known as many as seventy-five to arrive in a single night.  I was told that Dr. Bowlby of Weston, who lost a valuable woman while we were in that place, went over to the fort and asked General Hunter to return her, pleading that he was a good Union man.  His reply was worthy of being made a text for the management of the war.  "Good Union men don't own slaves," and that is true of Platte County at least.

We left Weston on the 15th of February and took up our quarters in Leavenworth City and remained there two weeks. Never perhaps was there greater rejoicing in Ruffiandom than on that bright Saturday morning when with colors flying and the mellow silver horns making music, we marched forth and left the blighted and accursed land.  We felt joyful too for we had done our duty and made ourselves a terror to evil doers. War and rebellion are no child's play to the hardy sons of the Northwest, and we showed no favor to the criminals who have aided and abetted treason. and so they were very happy to part company with us.  On the contrary it was a day of sorrow to the poor negroes.  They shed tears as they saw us move off, for they knew we were their friends and they felt that the day of their deliverance was now gone.

We did not do all our work in Weston. A mile from that place lives a Mr. John Wells, owning a large property in land and negroes.  When Phillips was mobbed in Weston, tarred, rode on a rail, and sold at auction by a negro, it was John Wells, who furnished and carried the rail and bid him off, and when afterwards this Phillips was shot by a gang of ruffians in Leavenworth, John Wells was among them.  The circumstances of that murder are known to all who are familiar with the history of the outrages in Kansas.  Perhaps your readers have heard too, of a mob that attacked the house of a Free State man during the troubles and took two little children and dashed their brains out against the wall.  Well, John Wells was one of that party, and never did we see him swaggering about the streets of Weston, but we wanted to take summary vengeance on him.  But he had taken the oath, though rotten at heart, and a guard of Missouri troops protect his house.  But this is not to be wondered at. Even in loyal Kansas the sins of some Ruffians seem not to have been remembered. The infamous Lecompte practices law at Leavenworth and Stringfellow lives in security at Atchison

We had a pleasant time at Leavenworth.  It was joy to us to be once more on free soil and among loyal people, to have the privilege of going about wherever we chose, to go once more into the sanctuary on the Sabbath and hear words of life and peace, to mark the happy, contented looks of the fugitives from whose brows the clouds had vanished and from whose souls the iron that had entered so sharply, had been taken away.  We had two hours drill daily and the rest of the time was our own.  But the evening was our time for amusement.  Then the contrabands thronged our quarters, and original Ethiopian melodists entertained us by the hear with their wild music.  Now it would be Dixie with all sorts of comic additions and variations and again it would be some low plaintive melody accompanied by the  -?- and dance, excited shouts of merriment arose over the nimble movements of long heeled Samson as he shuffled a hoe down or jump Jim Crow.

On the afternoon of Friday, Feb. 25th, as our pay rolls were being made out and we were rejoicing in the prospect of Uncle Sam's green backs, we were ordered to march at once to Fort Scott, 180 miles distant.  Our rations were -?- that night, the sick provided for and at 5 A.M. we were packed and ready for a start.  The morning of the 1st of March dawned on us gloriously and with indications of a storm.  -?- we went forward regardless of wind and weather and reached our destination about noon on the 5th inst.  The 5th Wisconsin accompanied us as far as -?-, then took another road. They arrived here on the 8th. The winds were very fierce on the prairie and the weather cold.

Seventeen miles south of Leavenworth, we entered the timber on the Delaware Reservation and travelled through it a distance of twenty miles.  The roads in the timber were in bad condition.  Our heavy loaded wagons broke through the frozen surface, and we could have been tracked during our second day's march by the blood which oozed from the feet of the mules. After leaving this timber we entered the boundless prairie and many a weary mile we travelled without bush or tree in sight, nothing but the monotonous rolls and swells of the prairie stretching before us, and when we had gained them nothing was to be seen on the far horizon but other rolls and swells stretching away till in the distance, they could hardly be discerned from the blue sky.

We generally commenced our march by sunrise and travelled all day, camping at nightfall near some stream where we could get wood.  Out tents were soon pitched, we boiled our coffee, ate a slice of raw ham and a basswood cracker, perhaps a musty one with a few worms in it.  Then we cut brush, not evergreen boughs but rough scraggy brush, spread our blankets on it and sleep.  Sometimes some of the large quill feathers would hurt, but there is nothing like getting used to it.

We camped one night at Osawatomie, a more desolate, cheerless place I never saw. We passed few villages on our route.  The whole country is still in a state of nature. Timber is very scarce.  Along the water courses there is generally a narrow belt of seared and shapeless trees that have been scorched and blasted by a hundred fires. We often kindled fires in the rank grass as we marched along, and the fierceness of the flames accounted for the entire absence of timber.  The soil seems to be rich and small streams of water abound, but these will probably be dry in summer.

Fort Scott, like Fort Leavenworth is not a fort but a collection of stone barracks.  Price intended to take this in his march on Lexington and came as far as Drywood, twelve miles from here.  Lane had but two thousand half armed troops, but he gave out that he had a large army, well-armed and equipped.  Four hundred and fifty of his irregular cavalry made a desperate charge on Price's whole army and retreated with a loss of two killed and three wounded.  Price acknowledged a loss of sixty killed and thinking Lane's force superior, took another route.  There are some earthworks on the bluffs commanding...[rest unreadable.]

Author unknown.

Vital Records, Cortland (1849), Otsego (1873) Counties, NY

 McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, December 6, 1849

Death

In Cortlandville [Cortland Co. NY] Nov. 25th, Major Aaron Day, aged 83 years.  The deceased was a soldier in the Revolutionary War.  He enlisted at the age of 12 years, and served three years and six months, was in the army under Sullivan and also under Washington at Valley Forge, through that winter of suffering that has few parallels in the annals of war.

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, December 13, 1849

Deaths

In Spencer, Tioga County [NY], Nov. 6, of quick consumption, Harriet Newel Loring, daughter of William Loring, Esq. late of Spencer, aged 20 years.

In Solon [Cortland Co. NY], on the 10th inst. Mrs. Marilda Warren consort of Mr. Seamans Warren, aged 44 years.

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In Cortlandville [Cortland Co. NY] at the residence of his father on the 7th inst. Mr. Sandford Buchanan aged 21.

The circumstances attending the death of this young man are of most painful and melancholy interest.  Himself and father were in the woods, on the farther side of their farm, waiting while two others were felling a large ash tree.  The tree commenced falling quite slowly and, when at an angle of about 30 degrees, it struck the top of a large and very tall basswood.  It carried the basswood along slowly with it in its course for a little way and there, being disengaged, fell to the ground, while the basswood, returning with an elastic spring, snapped off, like a pipe stem, in the middle of the trunk and threw a large bushy top, 50 feet in length, in the opposite direction toward the father and the son, who had retired a little from the stump of the ash.  the father escaped by a few feet, unharmed, but the son, who was hindered in his progress somewhat by a crosscut saw which he bore upon his shoulder, was struck by a large limb and crushed to the earth by the side of a log upon which the limb itself was dashed into fragments.  He was borne to the house 3/4 of a mile, in an unconscious state, bleeding profusely.  They were met in the door yard by the mother who, with all that heroic fortitude, prompted by a mother's love, assisted in bearing her dying son into the house, supporting his bruised head, while the blood in a stream poured its crimson tide over her hands and dress.  He remained unconscious for two or three hours and died without any recognition of friends or uttering a word.

But though thus suddenly called away, his friends mourn not for him as those who mourn without hope. When quite young (about 12 or 13), Mr. Buchanan, after much anxiety concerning his spiritual state, expressed hope in Christ as his Savior, and all sufficient portion.  About 4 years since, when 17 years old, he connected himself with the Congregational Church in this village, by a public preference of his faith in Christ.  His life has since corroborated the sincerity of that profession.  His Christian principle has been evinced by a correct moral deportment and a sincere attachment to the cause and friends of the Redeemer.  Whilst, therefore, we mourn his early departure, we cannot but be comforted with the thought that the exchange is of infinite gain to him.  Nor can we regard that end as untimely though it be in the morning of life, since ordered by the counsel of Infinite Wisdom, and is to form a part of that amazing scheme of His providence concerning His people which is yet to fill the heavens and the earth with His praise.

We cannot but hope that this dispensation of Divine Providence will be blessed to those of the young, particularly those who are without hope in Christ.  Youthful reader, whoever you may be, dangers attend you in your journey through life.  Your feet are upon slippery places. "They will slide in due time."  Had this young man stepped one step farther, in two seconds of time, he would have been beyond the reach of harm. Death may be hastening in your path with a quickening pace.  With all your foresight and prudence, you may be a step too late. Death may come, yea will come, unexpectedly, but Oh! be not too late with regard to the sincerity of the salvation of your soul. Be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think not, the son of man cometh.  E.B.F.

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, December 27, 1849

Marriage

In Lyan Co., Iowa, on the 25th of Nov. by Elder Blanchard, Mr. Edward Pierce and Miss Romelia Peet, both formerly of Solon, Cortland co. N.Y.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, October 1, 1873

Marriages

Sept. 23:  At the residence of the bride's father, Mr. Nathan Cook, in Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. J.W. Mevis, of Otego, Mr. William L. Wightman of Franklin [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Romelia A. Cook of the former place.

Sept. 23:  At Morris [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. L.B. Ford, Mr. Edward Hargrave to Miss Josephine Head.

Sept. 17:  At Utica [Oneida Co. NY] by Rev. R.S. Southworth, of Schuyler's Lake [Otsego Co. NY], Mr. W.B. Light to Miss Hannah A. Trumble, both of Utica.

Deaths

Sept. 27:  In New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY] Miss Emily A. Nearing daughter of Henry nearing, aged 47 years and 5 months.

Butternuts, Otsego Co. NY:  Mrs. Foster of New York, died on Wednesday at the residence of Harmen Norton, Esq of consumption. She has been boarding with Mr. Norton the past summer in company with her two daughters, who have done all they could to make her comfortable. Her remains were taken to New York or Boston for interment.

Butternuts, Otsego Co. NY:  Mrs. Henry Stebins died on Tuesday Sept. 23d of typhoid fever and was buried the 25th.  She was a sister of Dr. Cox of Albany and respected by all who knew her.  This community sympathized with Mr. Stebins and his family in this their great loss of a kind wife and affectionate mother.  May God comfort them in their sad bereavement.

News Items

Uncle Sol Marsh's 82nd birthday was celebrated at the residence of his son S.S. Marsh, a few days since by a large number of relatives and personal friends.  Uncle Sol. and his wife have lived together 60 years.  He is the oldest man living in Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] born in the town.  We hope he may live to enjoy many a birthday. [Solomon Marsh, 1791-1876]

On Friday morning last, at about 3 o'clock, three men broke into the house of Mr. Edward Edwards with the intention of robbery and plunder.  Their noise awoke Mr. Edwards, when he discovered one of the men in an adjoining room. He at once drew a revolver and fired at the burglars, when the pistol was knocked from his hand and two shots fired at him, each of which took effect in his body.  The assassins then fled with over $200 and a watch.  Mr. Edwards' daughter was awakened by the noise and at once gave the alarm, and the whole village was aroused and every effort to catch the villains made, but without success.  Mr. Edwards and his daughter were the only occupants of the house at the time.  Mrs. Edwards was in Brooklyn visiting friends.  Mr. Edwards had but recently sold out his Cabinet shop and was about to take up his residence in Ohio, where he was going into the cabinet and chair business on a large scale. We have known Mr. Edwards for many years, as a neighbor and friend.  He first started business in this county, some thirty years ago, at the village of Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] and removed to Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] some twenty-five years ago, engaging in the manufacturing of chairs.  He is a respected citizen and a hardworking man, about 50 years of age. This cowardly attack on his life has aroused the whole community to almost desperation and no effort will be omitted to ferret out and bring to jussive the guilty parties.  Mr. Edwards had, we learn, a day or two before he was shot, taken out an accident insurance policy of $3,000 for ten days, as he contemplated starting for Ohio on Saturday, his wife to meet him at Syracuse and together proceed to their western home, having everything packed up the day before. We learn the $1000 reward is offered for the arrest of the parties concerned in this dastardly attempt at murder and robbery. We heard from Mr. Edwards on Sunday afternoon.  He is not dead, as has been reported and his symptoms are improving.  It is thought he will recover.