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

 Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, January 8, 1862

Marriages

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

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

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

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

Deaths

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

News Item

From the South - Gloomy Prospects

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

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

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

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

Unadilla Times, Unadilla, NY, July 30, 1891

News Item

Lives Over a Century

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vital Records, Madison (1854), Otsego (1873) Counties, NY

 Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, June 7, 1854

Death

Mrs. E.C. Judson wife of the late Rev. Dr. Judson, died at the residence of her father in the village of Hamilton, N.Y. [Madison Co.] on the evening of the 1st inst., in the 37th year of her age.  Her disease was consumption.  she is well and favorably known to the literary world as "Fanny Forester."  A talented authoress, faithful friend, a pious and devoted Christian, and self-sacrificing missionary, has passed from the land of the living.  The following touching paragraph was written by her long ago, and now her wish thus beautifully expressed has been realized:

"O, let me die in the country where I shall not fall like a leaf of the forest, unheeded; where those who loved me need not mask their heart to meet the careless multitude and strive to forget me!  Bury me in the country amid the prayers of the good and the tears of the loving; not in the dark, damp vault, away from the sweet-scented air, and the cheerful sunshine; but in the open fields among the flowers that I loved and cherished while living."

[Emily Chubbuck Judson, 22 Aug. 1817 - 1 June 1854]

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, June 14, 1854

Marriage

In the city of Auburn [Cayuga Co. NY], May 31st by Rev. A.J. Dana, Rev. Samuel M. Fish, formerly a student in the Seminary in this village [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY] to Miss Ellen L. Spencer eldest daughter of Hiram W Spencer, Esq., all of Auburn.

Death

Mr. Robert Stewart an old and much respected inhabitant of the town of Fenner [Madison Co. NY], was accidentally killed on Saturday last.  Mr. S. was returning to his home from Canastota, with a load of lime and was met by an individual who wished to ride.  On ascending a hill, in getting out of the wagon, the board upon which they were sitting tipped and Mr. Stewart fell under the wheel which crossed directly over his head, killing him instantly.

Cazenovia Republican, Cazenovia, NY, June 28, 1854

Deaths

At the residence of Mr. Jabez C. Tillotson, on the 25th inst. Mrs. Rachel [Tillotson] wife of Ephraim Tillotson, Esq. aged 70 years.

Her disease was dropsy on the heart.  Long a resident of this town, her acquaintance was quite extensive.  The kind and faithful manner in which she performed her duties as a wife and mother - her good will towards the needy - the propriety of her conduct as a professor of religion, will cause her loss to be widely and deeply felt.

In this village [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY] June 20th, Helen E. [Huckley] only child of George and Mary A.  Huckley, aged 3 years and 8 months.

"Sleep on sweet babe, for thou canst sleep / Thy father weeps for thee in vain; / The tears flow down thy mother's cheek, / Her tortured breast is filled with pain.

"Thy heart that used to thrill so warm, / In death's embrace doth cease to beat, / And every vital spark is gone, / No friends on earth could give relief.

"How beauteous was that gentle form / Enstamp'd upon the infant breast; / How oft I've kissed thy cheek so warm / Where angel love had reared its nest."

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, June 18, 1873

Deaths

Died in Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] on the 7th inst. after a long illness, David T. Clark in the 69th year of his age.  Mr. Clark was a gentleman well known to the older inhabitants of this village.  Since his conversion, when only ten years old, he has been an earnest Christian and a zealous worker in the church.  The Sabbath School is a field in which he was an earnest worker, and to him belongs the honor of establishing the first Sunday School in this village.  His life was one with a purpose and of him it may be truly said that the world is better for his having lived in it.  Oneonta Democrat

Tuesday afternoon about 2 o'clock, Deacon Luke E. March, Postmaster at Bridgewater [Oneida Co. NY], went to his orchard to trim trees.  Not coming home as usual he was looked after and found dead under a tree, his neck being broken (it is supposed) by a fall.  He probably lay from about 3 P.M. till 8 o'clock.  Deacon Marsh was highly respected citizen and a kind husband and father, an earnest and devoted Christian, kind to the poor and ever ready to render assistance to the needy.  His loss will be deeply felt by all who knew him.  Richfield Springs mercury

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, June 25, 1873

Marriages

June 13: At Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY] by Rev. A. Goodsell, R.K. Teller of Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Minnie Biglie of Syracuse.

June 11: At Burlington Flats [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. L. Casler, Dorr C. Chapman to Miss Sarah A. Thompson, all of the former place.

June 11: At the M.E. Church at Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY] by Rev. S.W. Weiss, David S. Peet of Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Jennie S. Timewell of Mt. Upton.

June 5:  At Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. G.E. Flint, F.A. Adkins of Winfield [Herkimer Co. NY] to Miss Emma E. Matteson of Pittsfield.

Deaths

June 8:  In Yonkers [Westchester Co., NY], Laurence Decker formerly of Prattsville, Greene Co. [NY], aged 52 years.

On the 10th inst, a little boy of 19 months, son of James B. Johnson of Toddsville [Otsego Co. NY], took strong hartshorn from a vial, producing such a degree of inflammation of the throat and lungs that death ensued in 36 hours.  The child climbed into a chair, thence upon a stand and reached the vial on a shelf above, in the absence of its mother.  Journal

Mrs. Olive Shutes and her husband, John Shutes, came to this village [Morris, Otsego Co. NY] on a visit to her sister, Mrs. James Pope, Saturday, June 14th; returned to their residence in Milford [Otsego Co. NY] on Sunday and on Monday the 16th she died.  Heart disease cause of death.  She was in the 58th year of her age.

Jacob Holmes a well-to-do farmer, residing in Columbus Center, Chenango County [NY] committed suicide by hanging, June 14th.  He had recently suffered sickness, which seemed to have unsettled his mind and he was taken to the Lunatic Asylum in Utica [Oneida Co. NY] for an examination by Dr. Gray.  He was not kept there long but on being taken home, Dr. Gray cautioned the friends of the deceased to keep watch of him.  Watch was kept, but Saturday deceased succeeded in slipping away and between five and six o'clock Saturday afternoon he was found hanging in his barn, dead. A razor was found in his pocket.  Chenango Union

Vital Records, Otsego (1807), Cortland (1849) Counties, NY

 Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, August 6, 1807

Marriages

Married, in this town [Boston, MA] on the 31st ult. Mr. Andrew Buchanan merchant of Baltimore, to Miss Carolina Virginia Marylanda Johnson, of this town, Boston paper, July 24

At Danvers [MA], Dea. Joseph Putnam AEt 67, to Mrs. Mehitabel Putnam AEt 63.

Deaths

Drowned on Thursday last, Samuel Ward, Jun. son of Mr. Samuel Ward of Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY], a lad of 17 years of age.  He was bathing in the pond at Mudge's mills and got under a shelving bank, from whence he was drawn by N. Gott, Jun. but not till life was extinct.  Every possible method was used in vain to resuscitate him. To the bitter grief of his parents and relations, he was prematurely lodged in the silent grave.

Died, yesterday morning, the Rev. John C. Kunze, D.D. minister of the German Lutheran Church in this city [NYC].  the friends and acquaintance of the deceased are invited to attend the funeral from his late residence, No. 100 Chatham Street at 3 o'clock on Sunday afternoon.  N.Y.W. Tower, July 25.

At Washington City, on the 19th instant, in the 44th year of his age Uriah Tracy, a Senator of the United States from the state of Connecticut; and on the following day he was interred with the honors due to his situation and character, as a stateman, and to his rank as a major general; his pall being supported by the heads of departments and officers of government.  For many years he experienced frequent and severe sickness and his last illness commenced on the 4th of March last, while attending the funeral of Mr. Baldwin, his former fellow student and late colleague in the State.  Nat. Intel. 

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, August 13, 1807

Death 

Died in June last, of a fit of the apoplexy in the town of Catherine, County of Broome [NY], Colonel Luke Bonney a gentleman, highly respected and beloved, as a parent, husband and neighbor.  His charity and hospitality was conspicuous and diffusive.  His loss will be deeply deplored by the public, but more poignantly by a sickly family of which he was director and Protector.

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, June 7, 1849

Death

Aaron C. Hall, Esq. of Catskill [Green Co. NY], died there this morning of the cholera, after an illness of a few hours.

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, June 14, 1849

Marriage

In Homer [Cortland Co. NY] on the 7th inst. by Rev. E.B. Fancher of this village, Mr. E.W. Leonard, Jr. of Port Washington, Wisconsin, and Miss Elizabeth M. Shuler daughter of Jacob Shuler of Homer.

Deaths

At his residence is East Virgil [Cortland Co. NY] on Tuesday June 5th, Mr. William Gray aged 54 years.

The sudden and unexpected decease of Mr. Gray casts a universal gloom on his friends and relatives.  By a rigid adherence to truth and honesty he has won the hearts of the people. The public in general keenly feel this irretrievable loss, especially the town and the village in which he resided.

It is generally known that he was chiefly instrumental in procuring the establishment of a post office and a mail route in East Virgil and many benevolent acts on his part go to prove him a philanthropist in the strictest sense of the word. As a tender and affectionate husand, a kind and indulgent parent, an obliging and influential citizen, his loss will be deeply felt.  Integrity and honesty have always characterized his dealings with his fellow men.

After his late return from the city of New York, he was seized with that infectious and fatal disease, the cholera, which terminated his earthly existence in the space of three days.  But recently he was enjoying the inestimable blessings of health and prosperity. Today he is suddenly struck down by the ruthless hand of death.

He has left an affectionate wife and an interesting family who deeply mourn his loss.  Of the lonely hours of the bereaved wife and those fatherless children, God, indeed, has put forth his hand and touched their hearts. The deep waters of their souls are troubled, their dearest earthly friend is suddenly snatched away in an unexpected moment.  Yet, he who tempers the wind to the shorn lamb, will not fail in His great mercy to send His protecting angel to guard faithfully the widow and the fatherless.

Some conversation was had with him in respect to the future.  He expressed a willingness to go, if it was the will of his father, and also believed he was in the hands of a just God. The placid and composed appearance of his countenance, together with the little he was able to utter, is sufficient proof to convince us, beyond all doubt, that he died fully in the faith of his Redeemer, and that he has gone to enjoy unending rest above.

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, June 28, 1849

Marriage

In this village [McGrawville, Cortland Co. NY] on Sabbath morning, 24th inst. by Rev. E.B. Fancher, Mr. Dewitt C. McGraw of the firm of Kinney and McGraw, and Miss Harriet Austin all of this place.

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

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, December 3, 1879

Marriages

HOPKINS - COOK:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 10th, by Rev. S.C. Folton, Mr. Jay D. Hopkins and Miss Mary L. Cook, both of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

RAABE - OBENAUER:  At the home of the bride's father in Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 27th, by Rev. S.C. Folton, Mr. George Raabe of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Christina Obenauer of Guilford.

CRANNELL - PARVY:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 27th, by Rev. M.H. Abby, Mr. Georbe Crannell and Miss Ida S. Parry both of Oxford.

DILLENBECK - BARBER:  In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] Nov. 6th by Rev. L.D. Turner, Mr. Ray Dillenbeck of German [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss V.A. Barber of Triangle [Broome Co. NY]

CRANDALL - EVANS:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 18th by Rev. J.B. Santon, Mr. Harrison Crandall of Truxton [Cortland Co. NY] and Miss Flora A. Evans of Preston.

BUNNELL - HUBBARD:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 29 by Rev. H.N. Van Deusen Mr. Charles G. Bunnell and Miss Frankie Al. Hubbard.

MERCHANT - HARRIS:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 25th, by Rev. L.M.S. Haynes, Mr. O.D. Merchant of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Mary E. Harris of Norwich.

Guilford, Chenango Co. NY:  Mr. O.D. Merchant, having become weary of the smooth, monotonous waters of celibacy, has embarked upon the matrimonial sea, Miss Mary Harris, of Norwich, being chosen by him as his mate.  May their course be marked by sunshine and fair sailing is the wish of [the] Recorder

Deaths

McNEIL:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 25th(?), Philura [McNeil] wife of Mr. Charles McNeil aged 73(?) years.

BETTS:  At the County Home in Preston [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 18th(?), Mr. Lyman Betts aged 59(?) years, Formerly of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 22, 1880

Marriages

At the house of Mr. A.A. Van Horn, Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], April 1st, by Rev. D.N. Grammon, Mr. Samuel M. Thornton of Rockwell's Mills [Chenango Co. NY] to Mrs. Jeanette A. Wells of Masonville [Delaware Co. NY].

In Oneida [Madison Co. NY] April 6th, by Rev. G. Hibbard, Mrs. Peter Dorsy to Mrs. Kate F. DeLancy both of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] April 13th, by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. James H. Wells and Miss Martha A. Gensee both of Gilbertsville [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] April 20th, Mrs. Matilda [Ackerman] wife of Edward Ackermann, aged 53 years.

In Colesville [Broome County, NY] april 16th, Mr. Larkain Packard aged 85 years.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] April 17th, Mrs. Lucy Beardsley mother of Edmund Beardsley aged 90 years.

In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY] April 10th, Maria [Totman] wife of Edsel Totman and sister of David Maydole, aged 68 years and 25 days.

At his residence in Brooklyn on Sunday evening, the 11th last, Charles N. Wheeler, aged 51 years.  He was the brother of Mrs. B. Gage Berry of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Eunice Wheeler.  His remains were taken to North Stonington, Conn. for interment.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] April 14th, Carrie M. [Brown] daughter of George W. and Hattie Brown, aged 19 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] April 10th, Mr. Charles S. LaHatt aged 53 years.

In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] March 30th, Mr. Alexander E. Dean aged 64 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] April 10th, Mrs. Ann Comstock aged 85 years.

In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], April 14th, Mr. Mason Whipple aged 84 years.

In Preston [Chenango Co. NY], Ap[ril 18th, Mr. Edward Doolan aged 24 years. 

News Item

Reminiscences of Fifty Years Ago

Thanks, Messrs. Editors for your kindly notice of my former communication.  My future letters, by the way, are not intended so much to describe "Men and things" of fifty years ago, as to recall simple events which occurred among the boys and girls of that period.  In this paper I propose to speak of my school days.

My first recollections of school life were going to school in the old red schoolhouse, which stood at that time on the ground, or near to the ground, where the Episcopal Church was afterwards built.  It was afterwards moved by ox power to grounds where the M.E. Church was afterwards built. The name of my first teacher, I cannot recall. But while yet a small boy, we had a lady teacher named Gaylord. A part of every Saturday's program was repeating the catechism. We little ones used to think it a bore, but it was required by the authorities.  I remember perfectly the day that my brother J. first went to school.  He was dressed in a suit, jacket and trousers, made of fire red flannel with brass buttons.  He was rather a pretty boy and created quite a sensation.

Our teacher used to give us as rewards of merit, tickets which she herself painted.  At one time she had no pencil [paintbrush] and a friendly cat coming in, teacher caught her, and clipping off a little of her fur, manufactured a pencil, which answered every purpose.  Oh! those tickets were beauties.  Afterwards, a lady name Beckwith taught us; but of her, my recollections are indistinct.

The one whom I most distinctly remember and undoubtedly the best teacher of all was Gideon B. Miner of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY].  As I remember him, he was rather short, but well built, and decidedly a handsome man.  He had a faculty of making the scholars love him.  He offered at one time, a prize of fifty cents to anyone who would write one line across the page, as good as the copy.  He was a splendid penman, but there were those among us who boldly competed for the prize.  It is hardly necessary to say that none of us got it.  Mr. Miner had a habit of conferring titles upon the boys.  There was Commadore Chauncey (Marvin), Capt. Joyn (Hoyt, son of Rev. J. B Hoyt) Dr. Charles (Clarke), Schoolmaster John (Little) and others whom I forget.  Among my schoolmates, I distinctly remember two sons and two daughters of the Hon. Robert Monnell, Eugene and William Barnard, a daughter of Mr. Anthony Squires, Henry Hoyt and one or two sisters, my cousins Uriah Chauncey, James and Emiline Marvin, Benjamin, M..., and Emiline Birdsall, George Juliand, Philip and John Lansing, Henry and Antoinette Smith, William Cameron, Fred Lyon and others.

We had one teacher named Thompson, rather a poor stick.  At the close of one term [--?--] in the forepart of the spelling book to commit to memory, appointing the next Saturday to meet him and the one who could repeat the most of it correctly, was to receive a present.  On the day appointed, we went, some of us, myself among the number, prepared to repeat the whole lesson perfectly.  He pleaded poverty but gave us each a small coin.  I received a quarter.  I afterwards learned that Thompson went around and begged this money of our parents. To say that we were disgusted, is putting it very mildly.  It was rumored moong the boys that he played cards nights and got asleep in school next day.

The old methods of teaching were simple in the extreme and would hardly be countermanded in these days of improvements.  But simple as they were, some of the most solid men in Greene laid the foundation of their education and prosperity in the school, kept in that same old red schoolhouse.

With the exception of one month's "schooling" while an apprentice in Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], my education was finished the winter I was 15, in that same dear old house.

In my next letter - possibly my last - I propose to speak of incidents among the men and boys of my time, not connected with school.

I had not intended Messrs. Editors that my name should be appended to my communications, but it should savor of egotism.  But all right.  Lewis Hoyt, Hammonton, N.J., April 15, 1880.

Vital Records, Otsego (1821) & Chenango (1847) Counties, NY

 Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, June 19, 1821

Marriage

Married at Springfield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 11th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Putnam, Mr. Thomas Cook to Miss Catherine Chaugo both of that town.

Death

Died in this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on the evening of the 13th inst. Nancy W. Ripley daughter of Ebenezer and Sarah Ripley of Covington Pennsylvania, aged 16 years.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, July 3, 1821

Marriages

Married in this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on Tuesday evening last, by the Rev. Mr. Tiffany, Mr. Jacob Livingston of Middleburgh, Schoharie County [NY] to Miss Levantia White daughter of the Hon. Joseph White, Esq.

At Springfield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 25th ult. Mr. Moses Franklin to Miss Hannah Basinger.

In this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on Sunday evening last by O. Judd, esq. Mr. James Fisher to Miss Mary Powell.

Death

Died in this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on Sunday morning last, Mrs. Agnes Johnson consort of Mr. Benjamin Johnson, aged 60 years.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, July 10, 1821

Death

Died in this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on Saturday last, Jonathan Treadwell [Hodson] aged five months, son of Mr. John Hodson.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, July 17, 1821

Marriage

Married at Buffalo [Erie Co. NY] on the 2d inst. by the Rev. Mr. Squier, Dr. Lucius H. Allen to Miss Eliza Diell.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, July 24, 1821

Marriage

Married at Otsego [Otsego Co. NY] on the 22d inst. by the Rev. Mr. Tiffany, Mr. Luman White to Miss Mary Carey, both of that place.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, July   31, 1821

Deaths

Died in this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on Wednesday last, Mr. William Davidson aged 56 years.

[Died], Mrs. Sarah Coats consort of Mr. Salmon Coats, aged 42 years.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, April 14, 1847

Death

A lad six or seven years of age, a son of Stephen(?) Hall residing in the eastern part of this town [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY] was accidentally killed by his uncle, William Padgett last week.  Mr. P. was carrying a heavy green pole upon his shoulder, followed closely by the boy, a fact of which he was not aware, and when the pole was thrown down, it struck the boy upon the back part of the head, and so seriously injured him that he did not live an hour. Oxford Times

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, April 21, 1847

Deaths

In Hamilton, Madison Co. [NY] on the 13th inst. Mrs. Amelia B. Slocum daughter of Deacon Charles Randall of this town aged 32 years.  In the death of Mrs. S., a parent is called to mourn the loss of an endearing daughter, a husband a fond, affectionate companion, a son a tender and sympathizing mother and society an inestimable member.  Consumption's ghastly visage was productive of no terror and Death's messenger was welcomed with a smile that tells the peace and quiet of a soul that rest with God.

Vital Records, Delaware County, NY (1835)

 Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, May 6, 1835

Death 

In Harpersfield [Delaware Co. NY] on the 19th ult. of inflammation of the lungs in the 24th year of her age, Mary K. [Lockwood] wife of the Rev. S.R. Lockwood.  

Mrs. L. had been on a long visit to Cambridge, Vt., her native place; had but just returned to the bosom of her family when she was unexpectedly called at the close of an earthly Sabbath to an "everlasting habitation," and to the enjoyment of an eternal Sabbath.

Her mental as well as bodily constitution was extremely delicate.  She was therefore retiring and unobtrusive.  But those who knew her best, esteemed her most. "Many daughters have done well;" but there have been few more affectionate mothers, more faithful and devoted wives; few, in whom the mild virtues of patience, sincerity and tenderness were more conspicuous.

Disease was insidious in its attacks.  Death came very unexpectedly, but she was not unprepared.  In life and health she had remembered her closest.  She expressed a reluctance, during her sickness to leave her two little children motherless. But she was generally calm and submissive and occasionally joyful. and, as she descended into the dark valley, when the cold sweat of death was gathering upon her brow; when her voice was nearly lost, and she could speak only in faint whispers, the exclamation, "Precious Redeemer I" was upon her lips.

An appropriate, affecting, and solemn funeral discourse was delivered on Tuesday by the Rev. Mr. Harrington.

"Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord." "Be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think not, the son of man commeth."

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, May 20, 1835

Marriage

In Ithaca [Tompkins Co. NY] on the 11th inst. by the Rev. Mr. --ear, Mr. Henry Bailey formerly of this place [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Mariet [Raymond] daughter of James Raymond of that place.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, May 27, 1835

Marriages

In this village [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] on Sunday the 24th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Bassett, Mr. Jesse Easton of Bainbridge, Chenango Co., to Mrs. Elizabeth Moore daughter of Mr. Joel Easton.

In Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] on the evening of the 13th inst. by the Rev. F.T. Tiffany, Mr. Julius Hale of Newburgh [Orange Co. NY], to Miss Caroline H. Johnson, formerly of this village [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY].

In Stamford [Delaware Co. NY] on the 20th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Harrington, Dr. B.B. Dales to Miss Janet Newell.

Deaths

Suddenly, in Sidney [Delaware Co. NY] on the 22d inst. Miss Maria Hawes daughter of the Rev. Mr. Hawes, aged 22 years.

In Meredith [Delaware Co. NY] on the 13th inst. Miss Almira Porter aged about 20 years.

News Items

One Cent Reward:  Left my employ on or about the first of April last, without my knowledge or consent, an indented apprentice by the name of Jonas Delong, all persons are hereby forbid trusting or harboring said apprentice on my account under penalty of the law in such case made and provided.  Whoever will return said apprentice shall be entitled to the above reward, but no charges.  John A. Grant, Jr., Stamford [Delaware Co. NY] May 16th, 1835.

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Funeral Obsequies of Gen. Leavenworth

[The papers announce the death of Brigadier Gen. Henry Leavenworth of the U. States Army.  He died of a bilious fever on the 21st of July at a place called Cross Timbers, having gone out with an expedition sent by the Government against the Pawnees and Comanches.  See post of April 27, 2026, for obituary.]

The remains of Gen. Leavenworth were brought to this village [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] on Friday last, under the charge of Maj. Belknap of the U.S. Army.  Gen. Sheldon and a few of the officers of the 25th Brigade met the remains on the confines of the county of Delaware, near the Schoharie Kill and joining in aid of Maj. Belknap, followed them to this place.  About two miles above this village, near the residence of the late Judge Frisbie, the remains were met and received with appropriate honors by Capt. Leal's Company of Light infantry and the Delhi Band, which then formed the escort to the village.  Numerous citizens, impelled by respect and esteem for the character of the deceased, here joined the procession and with sad hearts and tearful eyes, the mournful train moved towards the village.  The houses in the upper part of the village were filled with ladies who had gone thither to witness the procession, and as it passed slowly and sadly along, the solemn music, the badges of mourning, indeed, the whole scene brought to the mind of the beholder in rapid succession the incidents of an uncommonly active life and the workings of the heart gushed forth in silent and unbidden tears, speaking a language more truly and eloquently laudatory, than the most finished efforts of the orator of the deeds of noble daring, the many social virtues and the pure and unsullied character of the once gallant and beloved but now lamented and honored Leavenworth.

On Saturday the 23d inst., the funeral obsequies took place, and the remains of the departed Leavenworth were consigned to the grave with military honors. At one o'clock P.M. the remains were taken from the residence of Mrs. Knapp, at which place they had been deposited on their arrival in the village and carried to the Episcopal Church, where the burial service was read in an affecting and impressive manner by the Rev. Mr. Adams, after which an eulogy was pronounced by Gen. Erastus Root, upon the life and character of the deceased.  A numerous and crowded audience listened, with breathless attention for the space of forty or forty-five minutes, during which the orator gave a rapid and eloquent, but faithful sketch of the life and character of the brave and energetic Leavenworth, from his early years to his death.  It was a life of stirring incident and of deep and absorbing interest and was drawn with that fidelity and feeling that frequently affected the audience to tears. We give, by permission, the conclusion of the eulogy description of the closing scenes of the deceased:

"When Col. Dodge with his regiment of dragoons was ordered on an expedition to enforce a peace with the Pawnees and to keep the Comanches in awe, Gen. Leavenworth fired with that ardor in his country's cause which had always inspired him "to deeds of noble daring" could not remain behind, but hastened from the repose of the camp to the fatigues of a long and rapid march, over a wilderness prairie, upon the confines of Mexico, and under the fervid rays of an almost vertical sun. The scarcity of water and the excessive heat and fatigue of the march was more than his constitution could bear.  He was seized with a violent fever while on his march.  He was advised by his surgeon to return to the camp on the False Wachita, but he persisted in proceeding with the troops that as long as he had life he might aid in accomplishing the object of the campaign.

"The day before his death, he was assured by his surgeon and other friends that he could not long survive.  He was perfectly sensible of his approaching fate; gave directions as to the disposition of his private affairs and the care of his family; directed that his body 'be temporarily interred until cold weather and that that a suitable coffin be made of Bois d' arc to receive his remains and that they be forwarded by the way of New Orleans and New York to Delhi, Delaware county. "To the people of Delhi and Delaware county," he said, "he owed all he had ever been.  At the beautiful little village of Delhi, that delightful spot, he wished his bones to rest."  His directions were carefully noted by his aid and his surgeon, and then he ordered his troops to advance.  Himself in a wagon, they marched on that day about twenty miles.  On the 21st of July 1834, while the troops had halted on the prairie, Gen. Leavenworth, lying in his wagon, expired.  The day after his death he was taken by a detachment of his friends to the camp at False Wachita and Temporarily interred according to his dying injunctions.  His remains have been disinterred, placed in a coffin made of the wood he mentioned and forwarded by the way of New Orleans and New York to the place where he wished his bones to rest.

"Here are those bones, consecrated in the affections of his military comrades and borne by their love more than three thousand miles to this "beautiful little village," this "delightful spot," to rest beside the sacred ashes of the loved partner of his youthful affections.  Twenty-four years ago, I saw the tears stream down his cheeks when assigning his Electa and her newborn babe to the same spot where his bones are now to rest.  To that sacred spot where his bones are now to rest, awaiting what I hope in God may a long time be deferred, the deposit by their side of an amiable, widowed consort and her well educated and highly accomplished daughter. To that consecrated spot, rendered truly delightful by being made the resting place of the virtuous, the brave, and the illustrious dead."

The ceremonies at the church being through, the remains were escorted to the family burying ground of the deceased, by Capt. Leal's company of Light Infantry, and the Delhi, Unadilla and Walton bands, followed by the pall bearers, mourners, Rev. Clergy, Committee of Arrangements, Officers of the 26th Brigade and citizens of the county.  The procession was formed by and proceeded under the command of Gen. Sheldon, assisted by Major N.K. Wheeler.  Half hour guns were fired from sunrise till the moving of the procession, after which minute guns were fired until the closing of the ceremonies.  An immense crowd of people had assembled to pay the last sad tribute of respect to their departed friend and fellow citizen, and as the lengthened procession moved slowly along, clad in the habiliments of woe, rendered still more solemn by appropriate music, tolling of bells and discharging of cannon, the whole formed a scene really affecting and truly imposing - alike honorable to the living and the dead.

Arrived at the grave, the remains were committed to the earth according to the rites of the Episcopal Church and the discharge of three vollies of musketry announced to the inhabitants of the quiet valley of the Delaware, that all that was mortal of the gallant and honored Leavenworht, had found in "the beautiful little village of Delhi," its final earthly resting place.

Vital Records, Otsego (1823) & Chenango (1876, 1879) Counties, NY

 Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, May 27, 1823

Marriages

Married, in this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on Sunday evening last by Oliver Judd, Esq. Mr. Leonard Knowlton to Miss Angeline Coleman all of this village.

At Herkimer [Herkimer Co. NY] on the 21st inst. by Alfred Putnam, Esq. Doctor Abel Millington of Warren to Mrs. Abigail Schuyldes widow of Benjamin Schuyldes.

Deaths

In Sharon [Schoharie Co. NY] on the 19th instant, Mr. William H. Blass aged 45 years.

In this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on the 21st inst. Mrs. Hannah Vooris wife of Mr. Abraham Vooris, aged 37, after a lingering illness of about two years.

News Item

Elopement

Whereas, my reputed wife Sally [Swift] has left my bed and board without my knowledge or consent - This is to notify the public, neither to harbor or trust her on my account, as I shall pay no debts of her contracting after this date.  She left my house the day of the date hereof, in my absence.  Thomas Swift Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY], May 21, 1823.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, June 3, 1823

Marriage

Married in this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on Thursday last by George Clyde, Esq., Mr. Thomas Hagadorne of Sharon [Schoharie Co. NY] to Miss Mary Odle of Guilderland [Albany Co. NY].

Death

Drowned in Otsego Lake [Otsego Co. NY] on Wednesday night last, Mr. Jedediah Story of the village of Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] aged 44 years.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, June 10, 1823

Deaths

In this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on the 2d instant, after a long and painful illness, borne with true Christian fortitude, Mrs. Margaret Taylor aged 45 years, wife of Mr. John Taylor, formerly a resident of New Scotland [Albany Co. NY].  The death of Mrs. Taylor is deeply regretted by a large family and a numerous circle of friends and acquaintance.  She was a tender mother, a virtuous wife, and of a pious disposition.

At Buffalo [Erie Co. NY] on the 28th ult. Asa Rice, Esq. Councilor at Law, of a pulmonary disease, aged 35 years.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, June 17, 1823

Marriage

In Sharon [Schoharie Co. NY] on the 10th instant by the Rev. Henry Bellinger, Mr. Jacob Hopper to Miss Sylvia Van Valkingburg all of the above place.

Death

Suddenly in this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on Thursday evening the 12th inst. Mrs. Eleanor May in the 39th year of her age.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, June 24, 1823

Death

Gen. Samuel Wyllys died in Hartford, Conn. on the 16th inst. aged 85 years.  He was born in Hartford, January 15th, 1739.  He was educated at Yale college and was graduated in September;1759.  In 1771 he raised the first company of Governor's Foot Guards and was the first commander.  The Legislature of the State in 1775 appointed him Lieut. Colonel of Gen Spencer's Regiment and in January 1776, Congress appointed him Colonel of a Regiment in the Connecticut line on the Continental establishment in which capacity he served with reputation through the war of the Revolution.  After the peace, his services were found necessary in the several capacities of Town Clerk, Alderman, Justice of the Peace and Representative of the town of Hartford.  He was appointed Brigadier and afterwards Major General in the militia of the State.  He was deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the State and a member of the Connecticut Academy of Arts and Sciences.  He succeeded his father and grandfather as Secretary of State and continued in that office until the year 1809 when a paralytic affection induced him to resign it.  He was buried last Thursday with military and Masonic honors. The Foot Guards, under major Olmsted, paid those decent and solemn attentions to the remains of their first commander which their miliary connection with him made so peculiarly proper.    His Masonic brethren testified to his worth by their attendance at his funeral and in the service at the grave by the Rev. Dr. Flint, a very large collection of the old and the young was deeply impressed with the reflection that all the honors and dignities of life must end there.

New Berlin Gazette, New Berlin, NY, November 18, 1876

Marriages

CLARK - BIGGS:  In Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 1st inst. by John S. Woodard, Esq. Mr. William H. Clark of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Fanny C. Biggs of Riverhead, L.I. [Suffolk Co., NY].

ELLIS - BURR:  In this village [New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY] Oct. 30th, by Rev. B.F. Williams, Mr. C.A. Ellis to Miss Angelia Burr all of New Berlin.

SCOPTT - BANCROFT:  In Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY] Nov. 4th by the same, Mr. Henry Scott to Miss Jennie Bancroft both of Pittsfield.

Death

SARLE:  In Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY] Oct. 29th, Mr. Henry Sarle aged 32 years.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, October 16, 1879

News Item

The surviving children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren met at the old homestead in the town of Coventry, Chenango County, N.Y. on Saturday the 30th day of September 1879 to celebrate the ninetieth anniversary of Mrs. Lois Smith, their venerable mother.  Mr. Clark Smith, the father of these children and the husband of this venerable mother, departed this life fifteen years ago in his eighty-second year.

Mr. and Mrs. Smith were blessed with twelve children, all of whom they consecrated in their infancy to their covenant keeping God by their prayers and at the baptismal font and had the satisfaction of seeing them gathering with them from day to day "like olive plants round about the table." and around their family altar and all, except one, growing up to maturity of years.

Six of these children, four sons and two daughters, are still living and are heads of families, useful members of the church and respectable citizens.  All the surviving children of this venerable mother, except one daughter, whose home is in Nebraska, were present on this interesting occasion of their mother's ninetieth anniversary.

One son, Harvey [Smith], became a minister of the gospel, in connection with the Presbyterian denomination and was pastor at Triangle, Masonville and South America at which latter place he died in the year 1873, in the midst of his usefulness and greatly lamented by his people.  

The family is not left, however, without a minister of the gospel, for a grandson, Mr. Clark Beardslee and a graduate of Amherst College, Mass. and of the Theological Seminary at Hartford, Conn., and who has just been appointed assistant professor in his Theological Alma Mater, is a licensed minister of the gospel and not only so, but a granddaughter, and the mother of five great-grandchildren, is the wife of the pastor of the Presbyterian Church of Nineveh [Broome Co. NY], Rev. William H. Sawtelle, who was present at this anniversary and added much to the interest of the occasion especially by his able prayer and appropriate remarks. This venerable mother greatly enjoyed the privilege of sitting down with her children, grand and great-grandchildren and their friends, about forty in number and partaking of a rich repast prepared unitedly by the different families represented. After this bountiful and most enjoyable repast, this interesting celebration was closed with appropriate remarks from a  number present, singing and prayers.

Mrs. Smith and her late husband came of a pious ancestry and, having full faith in the Abrahamic covenant, they carefully trained up their children "in the nurture and admonition of the lord," and had the great satisfaction of seeing all of them who arrived at the years of discretion, recognizing their covenant relations and privileges by making the personal consecration of themselves to the love and service of the God of their fathers.

Like their Puritan and pious ancestors, they were strict and conscientious observers of the Lord's day and faithful attenders with their children at the Church of which they were members.

The business of the farm and of the household was, habitually, so arranged during the six working days of the week, that each Lord's day was left free from secular cares and employments.  No unnecessary labor was performed on the Sabbath, not even in harvest, and no crops were damaged or lost in consequence of their conscientious observance of that day according to the commandment.

Mrs. Smith, whose maiden name was Kelsey, and whose ninetieth anniversary was celebrated on the 20th ultimo, still enjoys the proper use of her mental abilities and appears to have health and strength sufficient to carry her even to her one hundredth anniversary.

But whether she shall be spared to see her centennial or not, may her last days be her happiest days, and her last end be one of peace.

[Lois Kelsey Smith, 20 Sept. 1789 - 26 Dec. 1882, aged 93y, buried Coventry Union Cemetery]