Vital Records, Chenango (1847, 1880) County, NY

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, August 4, 1847

Death

Died in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on the 29th ult., Rufus A. [Utley] only son of Mr. Rufus Utley, aged 11 months and 18 days.

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, August 11, 1847

Deaths

In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY] on the 3d inst. Isaac Slater aged 82 years.

In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on Saturday last, Nelson Brooks, aged 9 years.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, August 18, 1847

Death

In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] on Thursday the 12th instant, Joseph Augustus [Lyon] infant child of Mr. S.V. Lyon of Greene.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY August 25, 1847

Deaths

In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on the 19th inst. infant son of L.H. Clogston of Boston [MA] aged two months and fourteen days.

In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] on the 19th inst. Mr. Gordon Weaver aged 61 years.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, January 3, 1880

Marriage

GIFFORD - STEVENSON:  In this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 31, 1879, by Rev. Mr. McAnulty, Mr. Alvah Gifford of Groton [Tompkins Co. NY] and Miss Annie Stevenson of this place.

Deaths

WYMAN:  In this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 30, 1879, Miss Susan Wyman aged 16 years.

BRIGGS:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 30, 1879, Mrs. Minnie E. [Briggs] wife of William P. Briggs, aged 19 years.

BROWN:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY] December 31, 1879, Mr. Frank Brown, son of N. Brown. [aged 22 years]

_________________________

BALCOM:  Last week we copied a notice from an Elmira daily announcing the sudden death from heart disease of Rev. Benjamin F. Balcom near Corning, Steuben County, N.Y.  A letter from his brother confirmed the sad intelligence and was followed in a few hours by a postal card announcing that on the next morning Rev George Balcom of Cawker City, Kansas, had died from hernia after a protracted illness, so that Dec. 20th and 21st, 1879, must be a day of sad memories to the relatives and friends.

Benjamin F Balcom was born at Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Jan. 10th, 1810, and spent his early years in this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY] and Greene [Chenango Co. NY], but the great pine woods of Steuben County offered strong inducements to all lumbermen, and he with his family, left here to make a home in an almost unbroken section of that county, and his strong right arm and indomitable industry soon cleared the way, and he lived to see beautiful homesteads taking the place of the woods which fell swiftly before the axe of the pioneers, while the wolves and panthers were driven to seek safer localities out of range of unerring marksmen.

George Balcom, the youngest of nine children, was born at Oxford, in February 1822, and lived in this county most of the time until within the past fifteen years.  Neither of these brothers in early life evinced any desire to enter the ministry, but both of them entered upon the work soon after conversion.  Benjamin was not a settled pastor but widely and favorably known, was often called to attend funerals or officiate at weddings and kindred occasions among his townsmen and carried the same earnestness and will to do good to the service of his Master. George took a wider field and traversed a great portion of the North and West in his mission as an evangelist.

Hon. Ransom Balcom, late Justice of the Supreme Court, died Jan. 6th, 1879, in Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] and was brought to Oxford for interment.  Mrs. Calvin Cole, sister of these three, died April 1st, 1879, in Oxford and is buried near her brother and Benjamin is buried in Steuben County, while George sleeps the last sleep in  the historic soil of Kansas, where he leaves a widow and the three younger children, a son residing in New York.

Two brothers, Lyman of Painted Post, and Uri T. of Chicago, and two sisters, Mrs. Pearsall of Owego and Mrs. Rhodes of Fond du Lac, Wis. are the survivors of this family and may truthfully say:

"And we on divers shores now cast, / Shall meet when life's dark storm is passed / Safe in our Father's home at last."

Civil War Letter, January 1862 - Benjamin B. Comstock, 12th Wisconsin Infantry

 Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, January 22, 1862

Civil War Letter from Benjamin B. Comstock, 12th Wisconsin Infantry

Camp Randall, Wis., Jan. 8th, 1862

Many long and anxious weeks have passed since I wrote you.  Rainy and chilly November has given way to December snows and December in turn has swept by on the blast and in her train has come a new month and a new year, and still the 12th Wisconsin Regiment remain in Camp Randall, wasting their strength, lounging away their time, and nursing and reserving their wrath for rebels in Secessia, but pouring it out without stint or reserve upon the powers that be, for detaining them here in a forty acre lot, in a land of peace. We are spending the winter in tents and find them very comfortable in all weather, nevertheless, we regard the "tented field" as a very good joke.

After many promises, and equal number of privations and long delay, we received our pay on the 3d inst. in bright new Treasury notes and on the following day, thousands of dollars and many New Year's gifts and tokens of affection were speeding on their way to absent friends, while many little comforts and luxuries were cheering the tent of the soldier.  And how little of worldly cheer it takes to make him happy while waiting and watching for his country's weal!

There are at present in Camp Randall about two thousand and five hundred men, comprising the 12th, 15th and 16th Regiments.  The 12th and 16th are fully armed and equipped and ready for service. The 15th, a Scandinavian Regiment is recruiting rapidly.

There is a healthy, moral and religious influence in camp.  A regimental church, composed of members of all orthodox churches, has been formed and numbers seventy-five members and often the Reverend Captain in gilt and broadcloth and the private in his coarse blouse, occupy the same desk and speak to us of the "things that accompany salvation."

A Sabbath in camp is not what it is in country homes or yet in our towns and villages.  In the thousands of men who inhabit our crowded canvas city; every temperament and shade of character are represented and when the Sabbath comes, releasing them from drill and fatiguing duty, each one seeks to enjoy himself in his own way, unrestrained by the customs of society and caring not a fig for "what Mrs. Grundy may say."

But the music of the camp!  How shall I describe it? Or what shall I say of those golden evening hours of song, hallowed to everyone who remembers childhood, the old family Bible and the music of the household; hours when the tired and listless soldier flings himself upon his straw to repose, while his thoughts fly backward, far backward to distant friends and more pleasing associations; hours when memory visits the soul with balm and refreshing, and Hope points forward to a better future.  'Tis then that music is in the heart if ever and it will swell to the lips and pour forth every joy and sorrow, desire and emotion in song.  From one tent swells "The Red White and Blue," and "Dixie for the Union," from another in tender tones comes the trite old song "Do they miss me at home." Here a dozen voices join in some religious hymn, generally with a spirit stirring chorus, such as "Homeward Bound," "Come Sing to me of Heaven," and "Come thou Fount of Every Blessing," while a clear voice in the distance echoes the notes of "Marching along."  As this is our marching song, I will transcribe it for publication, hoping that many soldiers will see it, sing it and take courage.  The words are slightly altered from a hymn in the September number of the "Young Reaper."

The armies are gathering from near and from far / The trumpet is sounding the call for the war: / The conflict is raging, 'twill be fearful and long; / Well gird on the armor and be marching along.

Marching along, we are marching along; / Gird on the armor and be marching along; / The conflict is raging, 'twill be fearful and long, / Then gird on the armor and be marching along.

The foe is before us in battle array, / But let us not waver nor turn from the way; / The Lord is our strength, be this our song; / With courage and faith we are marching along.

Marching along, &c.

We list for the war and we'll camp on the field, / With Right for our watchword, we never will yield, / The sword of the Union both tausty and strang, / We'll hold in our hand as we're marching along.  

Marching along, &c.

Though night thick with dangers hangs over our way, / Soon the morning will dawn on a glorious day; Then onward to conquer and shout the glad song; in God will be triumph while marching along.

Marching along, &c.

On Monday, the Governor elect of this State was inaugurated.  the 12th and 16th were out fully armed and equipped. The inaugural exercises were brief and without ceremony.  The oath was administered by the Chief Justice on the porch of the Capitol.  Then Gov. Randall in a very pertinent speech took leave of the people and the public station he had filled so long and well and introduced his successor, Gov. L.P. Harvey, who made a few remarks to the soldiers, after which the band played the Marseillaise, the cannon roared and we went back to camp, escorting the Governor and suit, who dined with our officers.

On Saturday the 11th inst., we are ordered to strike our tents and start for Kansas, to join Jim Lanes division.  If anything turns up, you will hear from Comstock.  [Benjamin B. Comstock]

_______________________________

Benjamin B.. Comstock, originally from Laurens, Otsego Co. NY, enlisted 21 Sept. 1861 as a private in Company A, 12th Wisconsin Infantry Regiment.  Died of disease in Humbolt, TN 17 July 1862.  Originally buried in Humbolt, TN.  Later buried Corinth National Cemetery, Corinth, Alcom County, Mississippi, findagrave.com memorial #3176278.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, July 30, 1862

Died near Humboldt, Tennessee of fever contracted while camping in a swamp, Benjamin B Comstock of Laurens, Otsego Co. N.Y.

"By feeble hands their shallow graves were made; / No stone memorial o'er their corpses laid, / In barren lands and far from home they lie, / No friend to shed a tear when passing by.

Soldiers Budget, Humbolt, TN

Soldier's Death roll: Benjamin B. Comstock, a member of Co. A 12th Reg't Wis. Vols, departed this life on July 17th inst., and was interred near Humboldt, Tennessee. He was a native of New York, but had spent a few years in the west. Twenty-four years old when he died noble-hearted and patriotic, beloved by his, held as a standard of knowledge and purity he died as the Christian death, calm, peaceful and serene. Long had he been a soldier in the cause of his Lord and Master, and had labored all his life, not for mere selfish ends, but for the good of his fellow men. Murmuring "all is well," he passed away. 22 July 1862.

When he was reinterred, the crew found a looking glass with him and his name was carved into a tree at the head of the grave.

Vital Records, Cortland (1849), Otsego (1862) Counties, NY

 McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, August 2, 1849

Marriage

In Homer [Cortland Co. NY] on the 31 ult by Rev. J.P. Simmons, Mr. Burton B. Hubbell of Lafayett, Onondaga County [NY] and Miss Orclia S. Crandall of the former place.

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, August 9, 1849

Deaths

In Homer [Cortland Co. NY] 24th, Magdalene [Hanks] wife of Zebina Hanks, aged 56 years.

In Homer [Cortland Co. NY] on the 28th of July after a short illness of three days, Joseph Newton [Van Hoesen], only son of George and Mariah Van Hoesen, aged 2 years 2 months and 9 days.

So faded the lovely blooming flower, / Frail smiling solace of an hour, / So soon our transient comforts fly, / And Newton only bloomed to die.

In Cortlandville [Cortland Co. NY] on the 4th inst. Jane Hellon [Darby] daughter of Edwin and Hellen Darby, aged 1 year and 21 days.

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, August 16, 1849

Marriage

In McGrawville [Cortland Co. NY] on the 1`4th inst. by Rev. S.J. Decker, Mr. Thomas W. More and Miss Eliza Ann Gross all of the above place.

The fair Eliza is so fleet, / She makes e'en Thomas own he's beat / Did ever race end thus before? / He caught a Gross but she caught More.

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, August 23, 1849

Death

In Solon [Cortland Co. NY] on the 9th inst. Caroline M. Bullock, after a long and painful illness, aged 31 years.

"Dearest daughter, thou hast left us, / Here thy loss we deeply feel; / But 'tis God that hath bereft us / He can all our sorrows heal."

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, August 30, 1849

Death

In Pompey [Onondaga Co. NY] on the 24th inst., Adaline M. [Bull] wife of Calvin S Bull in the 39th year of her age.

In her death the bereaved family and the society in which she moved have sustained an irreparable loss.  The disease which terminated her life was consumption.  Her sufferings for a year past have been great, but she bore them with Christian fortitude and looked with calmness on her approach to the bright world of disembodied spirits.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, January 29, 1862

Marriage

At the residence of the bride's father on the 27th inst. by Rev. David L. Pendell, Mr. Harvey J Wescott of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] and Miss Adaline A Pearsall of Bainbridge, N.Y. [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] Jan. 25th, Ira Whitmarsh aged 23 years 9 months and 27 days.

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] on the 17th inst. Orpha Jane [Houghtailing] daughter of Elias and Mary Ann Houghtailing, aged 10 years.

Dearest daughter, though thou hast left us, / And thy loss we deeply feel. / But tis God that has bereft us, / He can all our sorrows heal.

Vital Records, Chenango (1880), Otsego (1891) Counties, NY

 Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, January 16, 1880

Birth

Wilkins Settlement, Chenango Co. NY:  Mr. and Mrs. James Laman were presented with a valuable Christmas gift.  It was a girl.

Marriages

CLARK - BLULER:  At the home of the bride's parents in Harpersville [Broome Co. NY] Jan. 14th, 1880, by Rev. A.W. Cornell, Mr. Luman B. Clark of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Nancy Bluler.

Under our marriage head will be found a notice of the nuptials of Luman B Clark, the popular grocer of this village [Bainbridge] and Miss Nancy Bluler, of Harpursville.  They were married at the home of the bride's parents about a mile from Belden Station.  The ceremony was happily rendered by the Rev. A.W. Cornell of Harpersville. After the ceremony, which was attended by several from Bainbridge, among whom were Mr. B.L. Sherwood and wife, the friends present sat down to a fine collation and enjoyed a merry feast. The newly wedded pair have our heartiest congratulations for a happy future. We now see why "Lume" has been enlarging and beautifying his store and surroundings - that he might have a pretty cage for his bird.  May her imprisonment be a happy one.

SHERWOOD - ESTERBROOKS:  January 11th at the residence of the bride's parents in Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] by the Rev. L.E. wheeler, Mr. Charles W. Sherwood of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Annie Esterbrooks of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

SEARLES - MERRIMAN:  At Afton [Chenango Co. NY] on the 30th of December 1879, by the Rev. N.J. Hawley, Burton M. Searles of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Viola Merriman of North Colesville, N.Y. [Broome co.].

BURGDOFF -BLISS:  Afton, Chenango Co. NY:  On Wednesday of last week, Mr. George Burgdoff and Miss Mary Bliss both of Afton, were united int he bonds of matrimony by Rev E.T. Jacobs. 

Deaths

HIGLEY:  In Gurnee, Illinois, December 29th Luther B. Higley aged 58 years, brother of Truman Higley of this place [Bainbridge, Chenango Co. NY].

NEWTON:  At Sharon, Potter Co. Pa. January 6th, 1880, Ellen [Newton] youngest daughter of Alonzo S. Newton, formerly of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], aged 15 years of diphtheria.

LYON:  In this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co. NY] Wednesday, Jan. 14th, 1880, Mrs. Lois Lyon, aged 65 years.

CHAMBERLIN:  At Dalton, Berkshire County, Mass., Friday, January 9th of pneumonia, Sally C. Chamberlin aged 64 years.

PAYNE:  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 Janesville, Wisconsin, and interred beside those of her husband. [Elizabeth Sarah Nelson Payne, wife of Dr. John Payne, buried Oak Hill Cemetery, Janesville]

SEARLES:  Another of the pioneers of the county has passed away in the death Friday last of Reuben Searles.  Mr. Searles was born in Dutchess County [NY] but removed with his parents when about ten years of age to Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] and until the day of his death, for over seventy years, he has resided on the farm on which he died, situated on what is known as Searles Hill.  The old gentleman was a member for many years of the Methodist church and has always been regarded by neighbors and acquaintances as a man of honor, probity and industry, and ever willing to help with work or charity the deserving poor.  He raised a family of five sons and one daughter.  Of the sons, Arvine, Abner and Thomas reside near the old homestead; Burton resides in Iowa; George has been in Deadwood for the past three years, and intends locating in the early future in California; the one daughter, Lephia, the wife of George W. Davis, and resides in Greene. A circumstance that has not happened for years was the fact that all the children and grandchildren of which latter there are nine, were at home at the time of the aged parent's death, as though the old gentleman had waited for a final parting with all his children. There are few men who live to the old age of Mr. Searles with so blameless a character and leaving behind so worthy an example. The remains were taken to the Union Valley Cemetery [West Bainbridge] for interment and were followed thither by many friends.

ELDRIDGE:  David P. Eldridge died of dropsy at his residence in North Pitcher, Chenango County, N.Y., November 29th, 1879, in the eighty-first year of his age.  He was born at Willington, Conn., October 10th, 1799, and came here with his father's family in 1802.  He was married in 1822 to Betsy West, by whom he had eleven children, of whom eight are now living, one son, Rev. Enoch Eldredge, being a member of the Wyoming conference. Brother Eldredge was converted in 1831 and remained until the day of his death a faithful member of the M.E. church.  He retained his mental faculties until the last, and died trusting in the same God who had been his support and abiding strength for nearly half a century.  He leaves an aged companion who expects soon to join him in that home where partings are unknown.  Telegraph. C.D. Smith

YAGER:  James Yager, son of Henry Yager of this town [Oneonta, Otsego Co. NY], resided in Albany [Albany Co. NY], and has recently been employed about the new Capitol as laborer.  On Dec, 22d, he went upon the roof to clear the snow and ice from the gutters.  While thus engaged, he slipped and fell to the pavement below, a distance of ninety feet. when discovered, he was a lifeless mass of bruised flesh. From portions of the skull and brain were found near the building, it was thought he had struck the projecting cornice of a lower story widow in the descent.  He leaves a wife and three children.  This is the first death in a family of eight boys, and the news fell with crushing force upon the aged parents.  Oneonta Press [aged 32 years, buried St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands, Albany Co. NY].

LAKIN:  Gus Lakin, a farmer and lumberman, living between Fish Eddy and Hancock stations [Delaware Co. NY] on the Midland, met with a sad and fatal accident, Friday, December 26th.  He was drawing logs from the woods when accidently one rolled over him and crushed him to the ground, breaking his hip bone and otherwise seriously injuring him.  He had an axe in his hand at the time which by the rolling of the log was forced into his stomach, cutting a gash nine or ten inches long.  His friends wished to move him immediately to his house, but he insisted that he be left on the ground until after death.  He was taken to the house soon afterward, where he suffered terribly until Wednesday, the 30th, when death relieved the agony.  Liberty Register. [Augustus Lakin, aged 44 y, buried Partridge Island Cemetery, Hancock, NY]

BONIAR:  On Saturday last we were compelled to announce a sad accident to William Kirby, who, while slitting some lumber at Rowlingson's planing mill, had a hand taken off by a buzz saw.  Mr. Kirby has a sister residing at Cherry Valley, Otsego county [NY] named Mrs. F. Boniar. They had a beautiful little girl name Essie [Boniar], nine years of age, who met with a horrible accident and death before the sad news had reached there of Mr. Kirby's accident.  Little Essie, we are told, was standing near a wood pile, watching the hired man chopping wood, when the axe slipped in such a way as to nearly sever the child's head from her body.  Binghamton Leader

SEARLES:  Afton, Chenango Co. NY:  The funeral of Mr. Harry Searles, an aged and respected citizen of this village, was largely attended at the Baptist church on Sunday last. The deceased selected as a text for the occasion, Psalms, 23 4.

Unadilla Times, Unadilla, NY, August 6, 1891

Death

Mrs. Polly Gilbert, stepmother to Mrs. R.S. Frear, died at the residence of Mr. Frear, where she has been living for the past fifteen months, about 2 o'clock Tuesday morning, aged 67 years.  Most of her life was spent at Carr's Creek.  Burial at poplar Hill.

News Item

The children and neighbors of Mrs. Frank Palmer to the number of about forty, made her a birthday surprise at her home Saturday evening, August 1, it being the fifty-fourth anniversary of her birth.  Her children presented her with a large willow rocker. The rooms were decorated with vines and flowers. After a social chat, ice cream and cake were served and about twelve o'clock the company returned to their homes having passed a pleasant evening. [Clarinda M. Winans Palmer, b. 1837]

Vital Records, Broome (1838), Madison (1854) Counties, NY

 Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, May 31, 1838

Death

In this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY], on Sunday the 27th inst., Mrs. Dorothy Sanborn, aged 72 years.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, June 14, 1838

Marriages

Married in the town of Lisle [Broome Co. NY] on Wednesday the 6th inst. by James Stoddard, 2d, Esq., Mr. George Setmour of Triangle [Broome Co. NY] to Miss Mary Freeman of the former place.

In the town of Greene, Chenango County [NY], on the 12th instant by the Rev. Mr. Van Ingen, Joseph G. Masten, Esq. of Buffalo [Erie Co. NY] to Miss Christine Cameron of the former place.

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, August 2, 1854

Death

Mrs. Harriet King, wife of Mr. King, innkeeper at Onondaga Hollow [Onondaga Co. NY], died of cholera at her residence on Wednesday afternoon, after an illness of 7 hours.  She was a sister of the late Mr. Hiram Snow, of this city [Albany, Albany Co. NY] and hers was the third death from the same disease in that family.  Syracuse Journal

E.B. Georgia, a hotel keeper near Meredith Square, Delaware County [NY], was killed by lightning on Monday.  He was in his barn with a Pedler.  The latter was stunned but recovered in time to rescue the dead body before the fire, which communicated to the barn, had reached it.  Albany Journal

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, August 9, 1854

Death

John [Hillis], youngest son of D.D. Hillis, Esq. was drowned in the Onondaga Creek yesterday.  He was swimming with several others and accidentally getting into very deep water, he sank and was drowned.  This bereavement will fall heavily upon the parents and friends of the deceased child.  Syracuse Journal, Aug. 3

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, August 16, 1854

Elopement

Mr. Levi Main, a widower, and father of one small child, eloped with the wife of John Hembery, the mother of two children, from this town last week to parts unknown. The woman took one of her children and some ten dollars in cash, the hard earnings of her husband.  Main is a poor, shiftless coot and a vagabond, but the woman is represented as bearing a good character heretofore; was young and much better circumstanced in life than Main, and why she should have committed such an act is unfathomable.  but there is no accounting for taste, as the old woman said when she kissed the cow. The husband plucks up courage and says "good riddance."

Death

John A. Messinger, Esq. died of cholera at Milwaukee, Wis. a short time since, after an illness of only five hours.  Mr. Messinger was forty-five years of age.  He was formerly a resident of this vicinity and has numerous friends and relatives in Madison County [NY] who will be pained to hear of his unexpected death. We believe Mr. M. was under indictment for alleged participation in the rescue of the Fugitive Slave Glover.  He has now gone beyond the jurisdiction of Courts and marshals where the vindictive animosity of Sharpstein, the District Attorney, can pursue him no farther.  Oneida Sachem

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, August 30, 1854

Marriage

In Watervale [Onondaga Co. NY], on the 23d inst.by the Rev S. Hocking, Mr. George Romeyn Ostrander to Miss Sarah Ann Wright, both of Pompey [Onondaga Co. NY].

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY *(1807, 1880)

 Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, October 1, 1807

Death

Died suddenly at the town of Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY], about nine o'clock in the evening of the 26th ultimo, Mr. Lemuel Cleveland in the 47th year of his age and was decently interred on the 28th.  A discourse well adapted to the occasion was delivered from the first book of Samuel, 20th chapter and the last past of the 3d verse, "there is but a step between me and Death."  Mr. Cleveland went to bed well to appearance.  Mrs. Cleveland in the same room about her work, they were conversing together.  He ceased speaking and in about one or two moments, she heard him breathe like a person that was troubled with what is commonly called the nightmare.  She immediately went to him.  He lay perfectly still, on his side, and breathed two or three times and expired without a struggle.  Mr. Cleveland was a kind husband, a tender parent and a good neighbor and supported the character of an honest and Christian like man.  He has left a widow and nine children to lament his sudden death.

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, October 8, 1808

Elopement

Whereas, Priscilla White the wife of the subscriber, has eloped from his bed and board, all persons are hereby forbid to harbor or trust the said Priscilla on my account as I am determined to pay no debts of her contracting after the date hereto, being ready to support her at my own house when she returns to her duty,  Caleb White Plainfield [Otsego Co. NY], Oct. 2, 1807.

Ran Away

From, or left the service of the subscriber, an indented apprentice named Thomas Jasper Kibbey, nearly eighteen years of age, of middling stature, rather slender - wore away a blue broadcloth coat, vest not recollected, blue nankeen trousers, calfskin shoes and a napped hat.  He is a sprightly active lad, inclined to quarrel with his mates, insolent and fancy to his superiors and uses very bad language.  Whoever will take up said runaway and return him to the subscriber shall receive one cent reward, but no charges paid.  No person is allowed to harbor said apprentice.  Isaac Williams, October 7, 1807

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, October 24, 1807

One Cent Reward

Run away from the subscriber on the 15th inst. an indented apprentice, 18 years old, named John Jurdos.  I forbid all persons from harboring or trusting him on the penalty of the law.  Nathan Dow, Otsego [Otsego Co. NY], Oct. 20, 1807

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, October 31, 1807

Marriage

Married on the evening of the 27th inst. at Pierstown [Otsego Co. NY], Mr. Anson Fuller of Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Lydia Warren of this town [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY].

Death

Died in full faith on the 13th inst. that truly pious man, Azrikam Pierce of Otego [Otsego Co. NY] in the sixty-sixth year of his age; a professor of the Baptist denomination and in regular standing almost fifty years and never had an accusation alleged against him by professor or non professor.  "The memory of the just is blessed."

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, February 19, 1880

Marriage

Tuesday evening, Feb. 10th was an occasion of joy and surprise at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Gould W. Morehouse just north of this village [Hartwick, Otsego Co. NY], it being the fifth anniversary of their marriage.  According to previous appointment, their parents, William Jester and wife of Franklin, Delaware Co [NY] and Gould Morehouse and wife of this town, together with their families and friends, met in this village at about 5 o'clock P.M. when between 25 and 30 couples, old and young, took up their line of march in procession, and just at twilight, much to the surprise of Mr. M. and wife, about fifteen teams drove into their yard and it was somewhat amusing to see the general stampede that ensued.  Some with pails and baskets containing eatables for the occasion, other with articles of furniture, crockery, etc. most of which had been brought as presents.  Mr. M, though not having been apprised of the visit showed much presence of mind in fitting up accommodations for both guests and their teams.

During the evening, a supper was served, after which the presents were collected together in the sitting room, where they were, in behalf of the donors, presented to Mr. and Mrs. Morehouse by Rev. S. McCook in language befitting the occasion, which met with a hearty response, in becoming modesty and thankfulness in appropriate terms by Mrs. Morehouse. The presents were of a superior quality and had been selected with a view of usefulness and no two alike, amounting in value to over forty dollars. Great pains had been taken by the parents of Mrs. Morehouse and others who had rode nearly all day to be present.  Others of Franklin, who were unable to be present, sent their gifts, for which they as well as all others present on the occasion, have the hearty thanks of the recipients. This was certainly one of the happiest gatherings of the kind ever had in this neighborhood.

Deaths

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] Feb. 1st, Jennie W. [Mevis] daughter of Charles W. and Weltha Mevis, aged 6 weeks and 6 days.

Near this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] Feb. 11, George G. [Adams] son of Jesse and Elizabeth W. Adams, aged 7 years 10 months and 3 days.

At Hope Factory [Otsego Co. NY], Feb. 8, Jennie [Nestle] daughter of Rebecca Nestle, aged 6 years.

At Hartwick Seminary [Otsego Co. NY] Feb. 12, Harris Winsor in the 82d year of his age.

In the town of Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY] Feb. 14th, Ella [Parshall] daughter of G.W. Parshall, aged 10 months.

In Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY] Feb. 16th, Miss Almiora Smith aged 63 years.

In Brookfield, N.Y. [Madison Co. NY] on the morning of Jan. 17th, 1880, Mrs. K.G. Williams aged 72 years and 6 months.  she was mother of Mrs. Dr. Hills of this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY].

In Roseboom [Otsego Co. NY] Feb. 5, Flora A. [Pearson] only daughter of Joseph and Jane Pearson, aged 20 years.

In Schenevus [Otsego Co. NY] Feb. 6, Benjamin Manzer aged 40 years.

In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] Feb. 8, Mrs. Dorcas Sherwood aged 78 years.

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY] Dennis Davis aged 80 years.

In Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] Feb. 2d, Mrs. Lucy F. Thomas aged 68 years.

In Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] February 4th, 1880, Mrs. Erastus Beardsley.  [Phebe A. Wood Beardsley]

Mr. Patrick O'Connell, who had been ill at East Springfield [Otsego Co. NY], died on Wednesday the 11th inst.  His remains were taken to Cherry Valley [Otsego Col NY] for interment.  He was well known as a schoolteacher in this county and Herkimer.  [d. 9 Feb 1880, aged 57y]

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

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, December 17, 1879

Marriages

HAMILTON - KETCHUM:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 10th, by Rev. W.R. Baldwin, Mr. Frank R. Hamilton and Miss Lillie A. [Ketchum] only daughter of Mr. Egbert Ketchum.

MANWARREN - HACKETT:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] on 4th Dec. by Rev. L.M.S. Haynes, Mr. W.L. Manwarren and Miss Fannie Hackett, both of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY\].

PACKARD - BEALE:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 10th, by Rev. J.O. Woodruff, Henry Packard and Rosa A. Beale, both of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY].

CARY - WATROUS:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 10th, by Rev. J.O. Woodruff, George P. Cary of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] and Lois Watrous of Colesville [Broome Co. NY].

Deaths

McNEIL:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 25th, Philura [McNeil] wife of Charles A. McNeil, aged 73 years.  (incorrectly printed two weeks ago)

HOLMES:  In Taylor, Cortland Co. [NY] Nov. 30th, Jane E. [Holmes] wife of Leonard Holmes.

McGOWAN:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 8th, Mrs. Mary McGowan aged 91 years.

SPICKERMAN:  In Rockdale [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 26th, Mrs. Sally Spickerman aged 71 years. 

THOMAS:  John D. Thomas, a farm employee of S.A. Millard of Clayville [Oneida Co. NY], was killed by President Sam Sloan's special train on the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Road Tuesday morning.  The train consisted of only an engine and the car of the President of the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western railroad, Samuel Sloan.  On board were Mr. Sloan, Superintendents Hallstead, Niver and Reasoner. The unfortunate man was endeavoring to drive some cows across the track and miscalculated the speed of the train, which was running a mile a minute.  He was thrown some distance from the track and was picked up dead.

FISH:  Norwich, Chenango Co. NY:  Charles H. Fish, in employ of George Harris, while working in the store on Friday morning was seized with a fit.  He was taken home and lies in a very precarious condition.  Telegraph.  We learn that he died on Monday, Ed.

SALISBURY:  Jacob Salisbury, aged 70 of Afton [Chenango Co. NY] met with a fall which caused his death on the 9th inst.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 6, 1880

Marriages

In Utica [Oneida Co. NY] April 24th, by Rev. J.L. Humphrey Mr. Solomon J. Titus, 2d, to Miss Isabella Green, both of North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

In Afton [Chenango Co. NY] April 10th by Rev. N.J. Hawley, Mr. Oliver D. Phelps of Afton to Mrs.. Frances Dykeman of Colesville [Broome Co. NY].

At the home of the bride's parents, Afton [Chenango Co. NY], April 27th, by Rev. D.N. Grummon, Charles E. Tarbell and Ellen J Rounds, both of Afton.

Deaths

In Du Quoin, Ill. April 21st, Mrs. Elenor Monk, relict of the late Christopher Monk, formerly of this town [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], in the 78th year of her age.

In Titusville, Penn., April 8th, suddenly, Mr. Thomas J. Squires aged 46 years, formerly of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY].

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], April 27th, Mr. Thomas Tyler aged 85 years.

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], April 28th, Mrs. Daniel Campbell aged 71 years.

In Afton [Chenango Co. NY] April 9th, Roby A. [Davis] wife of Jno. Davis, int he 64th year of her age.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] April 24th, Mr. Newman Gates, aged 74 years.

In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] April 25th, Merton H [Winsor] son of Edson and Mary Winsor, aged 17 years and 3 months.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] April 21st, William J. [Cook] son of Jason Cook, aged 2 years and 9 months.

In Elmira [Chemung Co. NY] April 16th, Mr. William Guthrie aged 79 years, formerly of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY].

News Item

Reminiscences of Fifty Years Ago

As I incidentally remarked in my last letter, there was not much temperance in those days.  Everybody kept his bottle and thought no harm of it.  One man whom I remember well and who was a member of the Congregational Church, and one of its pillars, kept whisky for sale.  This I know, for I have myself been sent there for it and in order to make up the required quart, the daughter was obliged to take some from a custard cup in the pantry. This same man afterwards kept a tavern in the building on the corner, afterwards occupied by Hunt & Rathbone as a store.  I forbear naming him, but this same daughter afterwards married a minister, and the last I knew of them, they were all living together in Lewisburg, Pa.

But why select him from among other church members!  If one sold rum, a dozen other church members bought and drank it.

I well remember the first and only time I was ever intoxicated.  I could not have been more than ten years old.  My father had been butchering a beef in the barn.  Of course, he and his helper had the inevitable black bottle.  After they had finished, something called my father to the village.  The rope by which the beef had been hung up was left hanging, and my brother Jared and myself found that it made a capital swing. After swinging awhile, we discovered the bottle in an old-fashioned cheese press. we soon made its acquaintance and between swinging and imbibing, I was soon in a condition to be put to bed.  My father used sometimes to tell the story and add, "He has never drank any since." But for once he was mistaken; for how could it be otherwise, when the creature was to be met at every turn?  In the hay and harvest field, at raisings, at corn hustings and mynah other places, liquor was as free as water.  I have seen men mix it with molasses and call it "black strap."  Others would mix it with buttermilk and then it was "stone fence."  Even ministers countenanced its use, and a few years later I heard a pastor of the Congregational Church advocating the use of wine and only regretted that he was too poor to indulge.  

How well I remember old Tracy Allen. For one glass of grog, he would lie down and roll through mud and slush from one side of the street to the other.  and creatures calling themselves men (?) enjoyed the sport.  By the way, I think I have heard that "OldTrace" had reformed.  I wish I knew it to be true.

Myself and younger brother were once sent to the store to get the bottle replenished for the harvest field.  Just as we were passing the house of Mr. Charles Cameron, I put the "bottle to my brother's mouth."  Miss Ringer (afterwards Mrs. Dr. Willard) was sitting at the window and saw the performance and reprimanded me severely. She need not to have been alarmed for the bottle was securely corked, but of course she did not know it.

I remember the first temperance raising I ever attended.  It was gotten up by Mr. James Burroughs, familiarly known as "Uncle Jim Burroughs."  Invitations were given out, far and wide, with the express understanding, that there would be no liquor. The almost invariable reply was "Yes, I will come, but you won't get men enough to raise the house."  "Then." said Uncle Jim, "the timber may lie on the ground."  The result was that one-half the men who were there, could have raised the frame with ease.  Everything passed off pleasantly, with an occasional call for the "bottle," and after all was done, the horn sounded for supper. This was indeed a surprise.  Nothing of the kind had been expected. We all went in, of course. The order was given out, "old men first table."  A better meal I never set down to, and all went home satisfied and sober.  By the by, this was but forty-five years ago.  Shortly after that, Mr. Lot had a temperance raising, which was equally successful. For refreshments, he had crackers, cheese and small beer.

You will see Messrs. Editors, that I have occupied my accustomed space and all on the subject of "drink." I must beg you to indulge a little longer, and I will send you one more letter, in which I propose to sketch, in my disconnected manner, some of our boyish pastimes "fifty years ago."

By the way, your compositor made me say that we used to call Rev. J.B. Hoyt, "Birt Hoyt."  this was incorrect.  It should be "Priest Hoyt." A little colored boy, living at Judge Monell's would have it "French Hoyt."  But call him what we might, he was one of God's noblemen and has now gone to receive the reward of the faithful servant.

Lewis Hoyt, Hammonton, N.J., April 30, 1880

As Mr. Hoyt speaks of "Old trace" in the above letter, for his information we would state that the poor old man never reformed.  A number of years ago he was found in a dying condition, by the roadside in Page Brook and taken to a house nearby, where he shortly afterwards died, through the effects of old age and rum.

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY (1823)

 Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, September 2, 1823

Death

At Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] on Saturday morning last, the Rev. Henry Chapman for many years pastor of the Presbyterian Church in that town.  The deceased was in perfect health until within a few minutes of his dissolution.  His life has been one of great usefulness and his loss both to the people of his charge and the Christian public in general will be severely felt.  It is presumed that some of his friends will favor the public with a sketch of the life of this truly worthy and pious man.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, September 9, 1823

Marriage

At Sharon [Schoharie Co. NY] on Wednesday evening last, by Elder Marsh, Mr. Zachariah Keyes of Sharon, to Mrs. Nancy Whitaker of Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY].

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, September 16, 1823

Marriage

In Canajoharie [Montgomery Co. NY] on Thursday last by the Rev'd. A. Welton, Mr. John H. Casler to Miss Clarisa Stansell of the same place.

Death

It has seldom fallen to our lot to record a death which has created a deeper sensation in the public mind on which will be more universally and sincerely lamented than that of John Wells, Esq., who died yesterday morning at his country residence on Brooklyn Heights.  The circumstances attending this event are peculiarly afflicting.  Mr. Wells was in perfect health on Wednesday last and attended to his professional business in court.  On Thursday he was attacked with a violent bilious remittent fever which terminated his earthly existence on Sunday morning, after an illness of less than three days.  He has fallen at the meridian of his fame and in the midst of his usefulness, being at the age of 52.  His premature death has created a void in our community which will not soon be supplied.  By the force of his talents and the integrity and firmness of his character, he has risen to the head of his profession, and by common consent, he held the first rank at the New York Bar.  His modest and unassuming manners disarmed others of that envy which the superiority of his intellect, the splendor of his genius, and the extent of his legal attainments were calculated to excite.  But it does not belong to us to attempt to portray his character.  Some abler pen will do justice to his merits. We can do no more than mingle our regrets with those of his friends, is professional brethren and indeed every class of our citizens.  In almost every department of society, his loss will be severely felt.

There is one circumstance connected with Mr. Wells' life, which is peculiarly interesting.  He was a native of the county of Otsego [NY].  In the Revolutionary War, the whole of his family were massacred by the Indians.  He was then a boy and providentially escaped by being from home at a school in Schenectady. At an early age he was therefore deprived of his parents and relatives and has reached an eminence so distinguished by his own unaided efforts.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, September 23, 1823

Marriage

Married in Warren [Herkimer Co. NY] on the 13th September by the Rev. John Bowls, Mr. Reuben Fox to Mrs. Martha Wright all of the same place.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, September 30, 1823

Marriages

In this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on the 21st inst. by the Rev. W. Deafendorff of Sharon , Mr. Ebenezer Cross to Mrs. Elizabeht Swain both of Cherry Valley.

On the 24th inst. by E.H Brush, Esq. Mr. Joseph Flint to Miss Sophia Peeso both of this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY].

Death

In this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on the 22d inst. after an illness of five weeks, which she bore with Christian fortitude and resignation, Mrs. Fanny Richards the wife of Mr. Aaron Richards, aged 33 years much lamented by all who knew her.

Happy the change to leave a world of woe / To join in songs which ne'er cessation know, / Glory to God resounds the Heavenly train, / While saints and angels shout a long Amen.