Vital Records, Madison (1821), Broome (1846) & Chenango (1879) Counties, NY

 The Pilot, Cazenovia, NY, January 11, 1821

Six Cents Reward

Ran away from the subscriber on the third inst. Valorus Homes, and indented apprentice.  Whoever will take up and return said boy shall be entitled to the above reward.  All persons are forbid harboring or trusting said boy on my account.  December 13, 1820, Jabez Grodavent.

The Pilot, Cazenovia, NY, February 22, 1821

Marriage

At Pompey hill on Wednesday the 13th inst. by the Rev. Joshua Leonard, Luther Marsh, Esq. sheriff of Onondaga to Miss Margaret Leonard all of Pompey [Onondaga Co. NY].

The Pilot, Cazenovia, NY, March 22, 1821

Death

Died in London, Madison County [OH] on the 23d ultimo after an indisposition of but short duration, Abraham D. Van Horn esq. Attorney at Law, formerly of the state of New York, in the 84th year of his age.  Of the deceased it may be truly said he possessed but few of the frailties incident to humanity.  His deportment through life presented an unvarying scene of kindness and benevolence.  His heart was the seat of the social virtues. Possessing much professional erudition, his mind was enriched with the elegancies of literature and the embellishments of science.  His attainments enkindled our respect - the mild and gentle virtues of his heart engaged our esteem.  If with these distinguishing traits of excellence he possessed a single frailty, let its remembrance be buried with him in the grave.

In paying this humble tribute to his memory, the prepossessions of friendship, with which his amiable and ingenuous deportment has inspired us, have not, we are persuaded, an undue influence in the information of our judgment of his worth.  And when we say the portals of the grave never closed upon a more upright and estimable man, the pen but traces the sentiment which the heart prompts.  All who knew him and duly appreciated his worth, weep for his death and would lighten by their sympathies the sinking spirits of his bereaved relatives.  The reflection however that his sleep is not eternal; that the shade of death which have overcast the noontide of his years will soon be dissipated and he wake to enjoy forever an irradiating morning of immortality, should reconcile his relatives and friends to that dispensation of providence which has deprived them of his society. [Columbus, Ohio Gazette]

Binghamton Courier, Binghamton, NY, September 30, 1846

Deaths

Near Fennimore Grove Grant, Wisconsin on the 4th inst., after a short but severe illness, Giles W. Russell formerly of Erie, Pa., in the 29th year of his age.  The deceased was a young man of estimable character - industrious and kind - he had endeared himself to a large circle of friends who deeply mourn his loss.  During his sickness he received every attention that could be bestowed by medical aid and kind friends.  Lancaster Herald.

_________________________

The Rochester [Monroe Co. NY] papers announce the death in that city on the 23rd inst. of Gen. Vincent Mathews, LLD, aged 80 years.

Gen. Mathews says the Democrat, was a distinguished member of the legal profession and at the time of his death was, as is believed, the oldest practicing lawyer in the state.

Gen. Mathews was born in Orange Co. in this state [NY] in June 1766.  He commenced the study of law in New York with the late Col. Robert Troup, in 1786 and was admitted to the bar in 1790.  He subsequently moved to Elmira [Chemung Co. NY] and was elected to the Assembly in 1793 and to the Senate in 1796.  In 1809 he was elected to Congress.  In 1816 he moved to Bath [Steuben Co. NY] and 1821 to Rochester, where he resided until his death.

The Democrat concludes its article with the following paragraph:  "As a man, he was estimable in all the relations of life, winning affection and esteem by acting from the impulses of a generous heart.  He was in truth profoundly respected and warmly beloved.  An exemplary life was crowned by a Christian faith as he was in the judgment of all, an humble and sincere Christian, giving assurance that a life well spent here will be with him but the commencement of a glorious immortality hereafter."

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, June 11, 1879

Marriages

FISH - WALDORF:  At the home of Peter Waldorf, Esq. the bride's father, June 4, by Rev. D.N. Grummon, Emmet J. Fish of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] and Lovina Waldorf of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY].

HOPKINS - COY:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] June 3d by Rev. A.B. Richardson, Fred W. Hopkins of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] and Phebe L. Coy of Bainbridge.

KEOUGH - KINNIER:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] May 31st by Rev. H.N. VanDusen Mr. John F. Keough and Miss Elizabeth Kinnier both of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY].

FOSGATE - BOLT:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] May 31st by Rev. H.N. VanDusen, Mr. John M. Fosgate of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Mary J. Bolt of Greene.

Deaths

YOUNGS:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY] June 4th, Sally [Youngs] wife of the late Daniel Youngs, aged 69 years.

CROSBY:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] June 2d, Albert L. [Crosby] son of Orrin and Harriet Crosby, aged 5 years.

TOBY:  In Yaleville [Chenango Co. NY] May 1st, Mr. Martin Toby aged 67 years.

CARTWRIGHT:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] May 27th, Mr. Ezra M. Cartwright aged 42 years.

WELLS:  In Gilbertsville [Otsego Co. NY] May 31st, Helen Davis [Wells] wife of James H. Wells, aged 32 years.

ROOT:  In Grand Rapids, Mich. May 30th, Anna M. [Root] wife of Devillo S. Root formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], aged 40 years.

Vital Records, Madison (1866) & Otsego (1879) Counties, NY

 Oneida Dispatch, Oneida, NY, November 3, 1866

Marriages

CAMPBELL - CUTLER:  At the residence of the bride's father, Oct. 17th, by the Rev. A.T. Mattison, Mr. Jas. W. Campbell to Miss Alice M. Cutler both of Smithfield [Madison Co. NY].

SHELL - MUNROE:  At the house of the bride's father, in Kirkville [Onondaga Co. NY], Oct. 26th, by the Rev. Mr. Damon, of Manlius, Mr. J.P. Shell of Tonawanda, Pa., to Miss Alice Munroe of Kirkville.

BOND - NOTT:  In New Woodstock [Madison Co. NY], Oct. 23, at the residence of Mr. Theodore Morse by the Rev. N. Mumford, Mr. Jerome Bond to Miss Lottie Nott both of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY].

BOWEN - DIXON:  In Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] Oct. 29 by the Rev. J.B. Child, Mr. Norman T. Bowen of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Melvina Dixon of Cazenovia.

EDGARTON - GLADWISH:  At the Madison House in Oneida [Madison Co. NY] on the 24th ult. by Rev. J.O. Gifford, Mr. George P. Edgarton to Miss Elizabeth Gladwish all of Bouckville, N.Y. [Madison Co. NY].

VANDERPOOL - BOOTHE:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] on the 17th ult. by Rev. P.T. Hughston, Mr. Allen Vanderpool of Yates [Orleans Co. NY] to Miss Cynthia M. Boothe of Hamilton.

CLARK - BROWNING:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY] on the 16th ult., by Rev. D.D. Brown, Mr. Elmer J. Clark of Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Mary A. Browning of Plymouth.

WELLS - CAREY:  In Augusta [Oneida Co. NY] on the 21st ult. by Rev. R. Todd, Mr. George Wells of Augusta to Miss Margaret Carey of Peterboro [Madison Co. NY].

STEWART - CHAMPLIN:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] on the 23d ult. by Rev. Mr. Patterson, Dr. W.H. Stewart of Earlville [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Amelia Champlin of Norwich.

BROWN - UNDERWOOD:  In Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY] on the 23d ult. by Rev. Mr. Hill, Mr. Edwin T. Brown of Utica [Oneida Co. NY] to Miss Helen M. Underwood of Bouckville [Madison Co. NY].

STOCUM - SMITH:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY] on the 18th ult. by Rev. Mr. Ensign, Mr. William Slocum of Morrisville [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Delphine Smith of Pitcher.

YOUNG - GREEN:  In Verona, on the 23d ult. by Rev. Abel S. Wood, Mr. Frederick V. Young of Madison [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Eliza A. Green of New London [Oneida Co. NY].

Deaths

ELDRED:  In this village [Oneida, Madison Co. NY] Oct. 29th, Mrs. Maria B. Eldred wife of Rufus Eldred, aged 69 years and 10 days.

DOUGLASS:  In Fenner [Madison Co. NY] on the 28th inst. an infant son and only child of James and Fannie Douglass.

TROWBRIDGE: In Skaneateles [Onondaga Co. NY], Oct. 23, Russell H. [Trowbridge] son of M.J. Trowbridge of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] aged 23 years.

NEWELL:  At Ulster, Bradford Co. Pa., Oct. 21, Mr. Albert Newell formerly of Morrisville [Madison Co. NY] aged 60 years.

BARDEEN:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] at the residence of his son, Dr. A.V. Bardeen, Mr. Cyrus Bardeen aged 78 years.

LEWIS:  Harrison Lewis only son of Morgan Lewis, died at Chattanooga, Tenn. a short time since.  He belonged opt the 16th U.S. Infantry and his term of service had nearly expired.

BENEDICT:  Georgetown [Madison Co. NY] Nathan Benedict an old and honored citizen of this town was buried a few days since.  He was over 80 years old and one of the first settlers of this town.

SMITH:  In Weedsport, Cayuga County [NY] Oct. 10, Mr. Joseph S. Smith aged 68 years.

It is with heartfelt sorrow we are called upon to record the decease of an old and valued friend.  But a few short months since we visited him at his home in Cayuga and found him apparently in the enjoyment of health, full of life and energy and meditating plans for the future.  But the great reaper, Death, who respects neither old nor young, has gathered him in and we shall look upon the familiar face of "Uncle Joseph" no more.  He was a native of Sherburne, Chenango Co. [NY], his father having been one of the original pioneers in the settlement of that town.  He passed nearly all the days of his youth and manhood in the place of his nativity, but realizing that old age was creeping on and feeling a desire to spend the remnant of his days where he could enjoy the society of a much-loved twin brother, he removed to Weedsport about one year ago. Shortly after his removal there, his brother died. This sudden bereavement doubtless hastened his progress opt the tomb.  He has left a large circle of relatives and friends to mourn their loss.  possessed of a warm and generous heart, those who knew him best respected and moved him most. A tale of suffering and misfortune ever enlisted his warmest sympathies and the poor and the friendless never appealed to him in vain.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, September 11, 1879

Marriage

On Wednesday September 3d(?), 1879, at the residence of the bride's parents at Schuyler's lake, by Rev. S.R. Ward, Lowell S. Henry and Miss May S. Downs.

Deaths

Near Edmeston Center [Otsego Co. NY] September 3d, Miss Charlotte Doolittle aged 71 years and 11 months.

In Union, Broome Co. NY, Sept. 1st of paralysis, E. Hyde Clark in the 79th year of his age.  Mr. C. was a native of Otsego [Otsego Co. NY] but for the last 16 years has been a resident of Broome County [NY].

At Hope Factory [Otsego Co. NY], September 5th, '79, Franklin Finch aged 35 years.

Vital Records, Chenango (1841 & 1879) & New York (1801) Counties, NY

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, November 3, 1841

Death

At his residence in New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] on the 17th ult.  Mr. Nathaniel Foote aged 45 years.

As a husband, friend and brother he was faithful and kindly affectionate.  He was pious and his piety was of that genuine kind which consists in love to God and all mankind.  His last lingering illness he bore without a murmur and when he died it was with a humble yet confident hope of pure and endless happiness.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, November 17, 1841

Marriage

In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY] on the 4th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Denison, Mr. Orlando Harrington to Miss Hannah Brown all of that town.

Death

In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] on Thursday morning, the 11th inst., Mary [Rexford] wife of Rev. Lyman S. Rexford.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, November 24, 1841

Deaths

In Preston [Chenango Co. NY] on the 21st inst. Mrs. Bridget [Wells] wife of Mr. Ephraim Wells, aged 72 years.

Another Revolutionary Soldier gone:  Died in this village [Jamestown, Chautauqua Co. NY] on the 6th inst., Mr. Thomas Matthews at the advanced age of 93 years and 6 months.  He was a native of Connecticut and at the commencement of the struggle between this country and Great Britain, he sided with his oppressed countrymen and entered the American army, being attached to the regiment of Col. Campbell.  He was in many a hard-fought battle and had many hair breadth escapes.  Five years of the strength of his manhood were expended in his country's service.  Many an interesting tale has he told to the third generation of Old Pat. Mad Anthony, as he used to call Gen. Wayne and of Gen Washington, whose lives have become a part of our national history.  He has gone to join his compatriots who by the bravery, privations and hardships, have left the American people the rich legacy of civil and religious liberty. The last of this noble race of men will soon disappear from among us.  His funeral was held in the Presbyterian Church of this village, whose pastor, the Rev. E.J. Gillet is a grandson of his, and was altered by a numerous concourse of our citizen.  Jamestown Journal

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, July 19, 1879

Death

Fatal Runaway:  On Tuesday afternoon of last week, as Mr. and Mrs. Orrin Carter were on their way home, a short distance above this village [Greene, Chenango  Co. NY], their horse became frightened at the cars, when in the vicinity of Mr. William F. Russell's residence, and ran, tipping the carriage over, throwing the aged couple out upon the ground with great violence.  Mrs. Carter received very bad bruises about the head and face, and Mr. Carter had a shoulder blade and one or two ribs broken, besides being injured otherwise internally. They were cared for by physicians and the neighbors and finally taken home.  Mr. Carter lingered along until Monday morning, when death put an end to his sufferings.  Mrs. Carter is improving.  Mr. Carter was an old and respected resident of this town, and his death will be mourned by a large circle of friends.  Greene American

New York Evening Post, NYC, December 7, 1801

Death

Yesterday morning, Thomas Smellie Esq. a native of Hamilton in Scotland.  He lately came to this city for the recovery of his health.  His death is lamented by those few who had the pleasure of his acquaintance.

New York Evening Post, NYC, December 8, 1801

Marriages

On Sunday evening last by the Rev. Dr. Rodgers, Mr. John Patrick of this city [NYC], merchant, to Miss Sarah Ann Stewart.

At New Gloucester, Mr. Eleazar A. Jenks, editor of the Portland Gazette, to Miss Clarina P. Greenleaf.

At Baltimore [MD] Mr. Richard Price to Miss Phebe Coates.

At Philadelphia [PA] the 3d inst. by the Rev. Dr. Green, Mr. James McKean, merchant, to the amiable Miss Ann Ramsey all of that city.

Deaths

At Boston [MA] Mr. Alexander Mackay, merchant, AEt. 54 years.

Mrs. Mary Adams relict of Capt. Thomas Adams, late editor of the Chronicle.

At Lancaster [PA] Abijah Taylor Esq one of the state representatives from the county of Chester [PA].

At Baltimore [MD] Capt. Samuel Chester.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1879)

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 3, 1879

Marriages

At the parsonage in East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY] June 6th by Rev. H.W.H. Watkins, Mr. R.S. Yeomans of Preston [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Anna Ford of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY].

In Walton [Delaware Co. NY] June 11th, by Rev. Samuel E. Carr, Mr. Willis Bidwell of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Hestella N. Gifford of East Masonville [Delaware Co. NY].

A pleasant little gathering of about fifty met at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. W.T. Pancoast of Page Brook [Chenango Co. NY] on Wednesday eve, June 18th to participate in the celebration of the fifth anniversary of their wedded life.

Deaths

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] June 28th, Mr. Samuel Marriam aged 85 years, 9 months and 14 days.

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] June 23d, Mr. Edwin Atwater aged 75 years.

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], June 25th, Mr. Horace Scott aged 61 years.

In Brooklyn, June 25th, Lottie B. Davidson wife of Dr. Robert T. Davidson, formerly of this village, aged 21 years and 10 months.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, August 14, 1879

Birth

Harpursville, Broome Co. NY:  Mr. Arthur Mudge is about the happiest man in town.  It is a son.

Deaths

Henry O. Southworth a prominent member of the bar in New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] thirty years ago, died at Babcock Hull in the town of Bridgewater, Oneida County [NY], Tuesday of last week, 66 years of age.

At Fairview [PA], Saturday evening, the six-year-old daughter of Edward Ryan endeavored to cross the railroad by crawling under a freight train.  Her nurse, Cassie Laflin, aged 18, started to bring her back, when the train started and both girls were killed.

Patrick Moran a mason of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] fell from a scaffold in the new Catholic church at Towanda, in which he was engaged in plastering, last week and was instantly killed. The distance was thirty feet, and the fall broke his neck.

Elliot Danforth, Esq. attended the funeral of his great uncle, Peter E. Swart Esq. one of the oldest residents of Middleburg [Schoharie Co. NY] on Tuesday.

It is with pain that we record the death of our esteemed townsman, Mr. Peter Z. Swart, which occurred last Saturday morning in the sixty-seventh year of his age.  Perhaps no man was better known or more deeply respected in this part of the county than Mr. Swart and many who knew him only through his kindly acts and honorable manner of dealing, will mourn the loss of a friend.  He has held many local offices in this town [Middleburg] and always filled them with the same marked ability and nobleness of purpose that characterized the management of his own affairs through life. The funeral took place on Tuesday and was largely attended.  [The Cobleskill Index, Cobleskill, NY, Aug. 14, 1879]

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, July 5, 1879

The County Jail and Inmates

Through the courtesy of Sheriff Hill and Keeper Cook we visited the County Jail on Wednesday afternoon last.  The jail now contains only seven prisoners, the smallest number that he been in the institution for a long time.  There are no tramps in the jail, and the people of the county have reason to congratulate themselves on the success of the tramp law recently enacted by the Board of Supervisors.

Esther Mudge, the New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] woman, charged with infanticide has the whole upper floor of the jail to herself, and when we entered the apartment was reading a paper. Her incarceration does not seem to trouble her to any great extent, and she chatted as pleasantly as if oblivious of the terrible crime with which she is charged.

On the first floor, seated at a table enjoying a social game of cards was Fred Jackson, the colored man indicted for the murder of his mother at Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] last winter; Elijah Melius the absconding collector of the town of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], recently brought back from the West; Charles Wood, the burglar who broke into the depots at Earlville, Sherburne, Oxford and stations of the Erie, near Binghamton; Luallen Tyler charged with forgery, and over whom an indictment has been pending since 1874; Edward Cobb for "breaking up" housekeeping in a too abrupt manner and Anthony Gravelin the Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] shoemaker, who, while intoxicated, assaulted his wife.

About the time McCann was executed, [Fred] Jackson was indisposed and very despondent for several days, but under medical treatment has fully recovered and is now looking well and apparently in the enjoyment of his usual health.  He says but little in regard to the tragedy and still stoutly maintains his innocence of the crime.  The story current that he was feigning insanity was entirely without foundation, as we are informed by Keeper Cook.  He is very quiet in his demeanor but is apparently a general favorite with the other prisoners.

[Elijah] Melius does not stand the confinement as well as the other prisoners and looks pale, haggard and careworn.  He is naturally a very active man, accustomed to a plenty of outdoor exercise. When first incarcerated he made overtures for a compromise, but the effort failed and his bondsmen are determined to show him no leniency, and he will probably be compelled to abandon farming as an occupation and learn a trade under the supervision of prison officials.

The station burglar that gives his name as Charles Wood (no doubt an alias) is a mystery to everyone.  He is not at all reticent and talks freely in regard to the crimes he has committed, giving information and details to the officers that could only be known by his own telling.  He is an expert letterer and has his name marked upon the floor in the jail in text letters that in shape or style few painters could equal and stamps his story of being a longshoreman by profession as untrue and it is more than possible that Sheriff Hill has in his prisoner "larger game" than is generally anticipated.

Anthony Gravelin has nearly served his sentence of ninety days imposed upon him for assault upon his wife while in a drunken frenzy and will be liberated on the 8th inst.  When sober, he is a quiet, peaceable and well-disposed man, but rum brings out the devil that is in him, and when on his sprees is a dangerous character.  It is hoped that his ninety days' experience in jail will prove a temperance lecture that he will heed and that he will cease to drink of the poison that makes a beast of him.

Luallen Tyler is in for a forgery committed in this county some six years ago, was arrested at the time, given a hearing before a justice in Greene [Chenango Co. NY] who ordered him committed to jail to await the action of the Grand Jury.  On his way to Norwich, he escaped from the constable having him in charge and has since been at liberty until some six weeks ago when Sheriff Hill got track of him and he was a second time arrested and committed to jail.  His trial will probably take place at the next term of court.

Edward Cobb of Sherburne is serving a sentence of 90 days for drunkenness and disorderly conduct.  Cobb is an inoffensive man when sober, but occasionally takes too much of the "ardent," and at such times is quarrelsome and ugly.  It is to be hoped that he will also profit by his imprisonment and forever abandon his cups.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1879)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, July 3, 1879

Death

Death of Col. Ezra Hewitt

Again we are called upon to record the death of one of our old citizens.  Col. Ezra Hewitt expired at his residence in this village on Saturday morning last, in the eighty-fourth year of his age.  Though not a pioneer in this region, he has been so thoroughly identified with the best interests of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] since before its present generation of businessmen, that very few remember that his residence here covers only the comparatively short period of thirty-six years.  We have chronicled the death of so many of our citizens during the past few years, whose lives took in a much larger part of the history of this village, that his life here, in comparison, seems short, yet so full has it been of activity and power, that to call him one of our old residents is not a name misapplied.

He was born at Stonington, Ct., October 7th, 1795, and was the son of Elias and Desire (Hull) Hewitt.  December 8th, 1829, he married Phebe Esther Randall, a daughter of Col. William and Martha (Cheesbrough) Randall, of Stonington.  Her father and grandfather were noted men in the old nutmeg State, the latter being prominent in the Revolution and the former in the War of 1812 and took an active part in framing the State Constitution.

Mr. Hewitt was two or three times elected to the Assembly of Connecticut and by his great efficiency in drilling a regiment was made Colonel in the State militia.  He was also Selectman several times in his native town.

September 16th, 1839, his wife died.  July 6th, 1843, he married Harriet Augusta Randall, daughter of the late Col. John and Hannah (Snow) Randall, of this village [Norwich].  He went back to Stonington to settle up his affairs and attend a political campaign in which he was a candidate for the State Senate, but was defeated, he having been nominated on account of his popularity, in a district strongly Democratic, he being an old-line Whig.  He very soon removed to this village and the next year bought of Samuel Randall the farm on the north border of the corporation, on which he has since lived.  He moved back the old house and built the present substantial dwelling which he occupied for the first time May 21st, 1845.

March 30th, 1846, himself and wife joined the First Congregational Church of this village - he had been a member of the Church at Stonington - and he immediately took a foremost place in the membership.  July 12th, 1847, he was elected Trustee with Benjamin Chapman; was elected July 10th, 1854, and February 19th, 1856, to fill vacancy, and again March 2d, 1857, and February 14th, 1860, for full term.  February 20th, he resigned and was not again a trustee.  In 1868 he was appointed by the Church a building committee and made quite extensive repairs on the Parsonage at an expense of $4,000 the most of which amount he advanced to the Church.

Outside of his Church relations he has been an exceedingly active man, but his activity has not been in an official capacity. Very seldom has he accepted any public office.  He was Street Commissioner a few years, but further neither his taste nor ambition seemed to urge him.  In 1855 he was president of the Chenango County Agricultural Society and for a long time he took a great interest in the Annual Fairs.  At the one which occurred the year he was President, September 27th, P.T. Barnum delivered the address.  Very many of our readers will remember the large wagon, drawn by twenty-one yoke of fine oxen, with which the President proudly led the long procession and carried the speaker to the grounds.

Col. Hewitt was a man of great energy, and whatever he undertook was sure of success, but he never did anything under handedly.  His whole life was open and frank - known and read of all men - and he never feared to denounce any kind of sin, whether of high or low degree, yet he had a tender heart and many a poor and burdened and sorrowing soul has been cheered by his sympathy and substantial aid.  His hospitality, good nature and sociality were unbounded, and he was always ready with a joke or pleasant story and a hearty laugh on all occasion.  It will be impossible for anyone that knew him to forget him, for there were very few such men as was Col. Hewitt.

He leaves surviving him his stricken widow and the widow and little daughter of his only son, William, who was buried one year and one week before his father.  The funeral of the Colonel was largely attended at his late residence on Monday afternoon, where the services were conducted by his beloved pastor, Rev. S. Scoville, and his remains were followed to the grave by many sympathizing neighbors and friends.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, July 2, 1879

Birth

The wife of G.W. Adams, of South Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY] presented her husband with three boy babies on the 7th inst. Afton Sentinel

Death

The funeral of George Griffin of whose death we made mention in our last, was largely attended from the residence of Anson Gorham, on Mitchell Street [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

News Item

From statistics furnished by Thomas A Dye we gather the following information.  He came to this village [South New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY] and established the undertaking business in April 1846, and in the 33 years, ending April 1st, 1879, 960 were conveyed by him to their silent resting places.  The first burial was for Mrs. Lucretia Davis, mother-in-law of our esteemed neighbor Harry Bagg.  One person lived to be 104 years of age, Josiah Stedman of Guilford, who died February 1st, 1856.  Ten came to their death by drowning, four by cutting the throat, three by hanging, and one with poison.  The greatest mortality is shown to have been in the year 1862.  Eleven were buried in the month of April that year, 63 during the year.  Mr. Dye has kept a correct record of the names and ages of the deceased and other information which friends can refer to at any time.

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

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, September 17, 1879

Deaths

Last Sabbath, just before the close of the morning service at the Baptist Church, a messenger arrived with the announcement of the death of Mrs. W.J. Quincy.  The congregation was taken by surprise, although some knew that she was quite sick.  She died at about three o'clock Sunday morning at her father's residence in Columbus, Chenango County [NY].  some three weeks since she went from here with her mother, then ill, but it was supposed that she would soon recover under the tender care of her mother, but it seems she has been gradually failing, until she died as above; disease, inflammation of the stomach.  It is but a few weeks since she was a young bride and with her husband were welcomed to this village [Morris, Otsego Co. NY] by the church and society, he as pastor of the Baptist church and she as his helpmate, and how soon has his house, to which he so fondly looked forward to enjoy, been broken up.  Although Mrs. Quincy had been a resident here but a few weeks, yet by her kind and affectionate manner and her Christian deportment, she had won a warm place in the hearts of those who had become acquainted with her, who are saddened by her sudden death.  Our brother has the sympathy of his church and the entire community in this great affliction.  But let him find consolation in the words from which but a few weeks since he preached a sermon, "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."  The funeral of Mrs. Quincy will be held today, Tuesday, from the residence of her father in Columbus. [Ida E. Brown Quincy, 26 May 1858 - 14 September 1879, age 21 years]

Dr. A.C. Bunn who has been absent from our village [Morris, Otsego Co. NY] five years, returned with his three children, all boys, on Tuesday, Sept. 9th.  Everybody is pleased to grasp the Doctor by the hand and welcome him back.  But what sadness is brought to the minds of the friends of the dead mother, as they look into the faces of those three motherless children.  Only five years ago the mother left her friends here with a cheerful smile, willing to go and brave with her husband, the hardships of a foreign home, there to bring up her family and do what good she could.  But death claimed her as his victim and in a foreign land her remains repose, peacefully awaiting the call to come forth "ye blessed of the Lord."  But in this, his native village, the Doctor finds sympathizing hearts and warm friends and a fond mother and father, who will ever do what they can to make life pleasant for him and the little ones.

A Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] man named A.J. Ryan was shot and killed at Lee's Summit, Missouri by a man named R.W. Macafee on Saturday night, Sept. 6th. they had been drinking and were quarreling about money. The deceased was section boss on the Missouri and Pacific Railroad.  He has friends living in Norwich.

A young man, George Evans, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], shot and killed George Shapely in the hop yard of George Brownell in Hamilton [Madison Co. NY], on Monday, Sept. 8th.  Shapely was an inoffensive old man, telling the fortunes of the hop pickers.  He was considerably deaf, and the boys got up behind him and fired pistols to see him jump.  Evans, while standing in front of Shapely, cocked his pistol and pointed it as thought, over the old man's shoulder, not thinking it was loaded with a ball.  He held it too low.  The ball penetrated the lung, and the old man died in a few moments. Evans was arrested and is now confined in the Morrisville jail [Madison Co. NY].  the shooting was in the presence of a number of persons, and all agree as to the circumstances of the sad affair.  Under the law, there is a severe punishment for carrying concealed weapons and for pointing a weapon at another, whether loaded or not.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, July 3, 1879

Marriages

BIDWELL - GIFFORD:  In Walton [Delaware Co. NY] June 11th, by Rev. S.E. Carr, Mr. Willie Bidwell of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Hostella N. Gifford of East Masonville [Madison Co. NY].

SEEBER - GARDINER:  In Freetown [Cortland Co. NY], June 18th, by Rev. G.A. Place, Mr. Willima L. Seeber of German [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Eunice M. Gardiner of Freetown.

QUINCY - BROWN:  At the residence of Dea. S.L. Brown in Columbus [Chenango Co. NY], June 10th by Rev. T.A. Batson, Mr. W.J. Quincy of Morris [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Ida E. Brown of Columbus.

SHEPARD - BRADLEY:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] June 19th by Rev. J.C. Shelland, Mr. A.J. Shepard of Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Julia Bradley of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

HEWITT:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] June 26th, Col. Ezra Hewitt in the 84th year of his age.

NEWMAN:  Near Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY] June 29th, Mr. Alpheus C. Newman of South Addison, Steuben Co. [NY] aged 84 years, brother of A.D. Newman of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

WING:  In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] June 30th, Mr. Amos Wing aged about 80 years. Deceased was a brother-in-law of A.D. Newman of this village.

MINER:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] June 25th, Mr. Philip Miner aged 84 years.

LAMPHERE:  At Rockwell's Mills, Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] June 23d, Mrs. Lyman Lamphere aged 79 years.

Mrs. Lyman Lamphere, aged 79 years, died on Monday, June 23d.  Her funeral was attended on Wednesday by a large circle of friends and neighbors.  Rev. T.P. Halstead conducted the services.  She was interred at South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY].

TEFFT:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY] June 23d, Mrs. Jemima Tefft aged 76 years.

GOSHAW:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY] June 26th, Mr. Frank L. Goshaw aged 22 years and 11 months.

MARIAM:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] June 2ith, Mr. Samuel Mariam aged 85 years, 9 months and 13 days.

DAVIDSON:  In Brooklyn, June 24th, Lottie B. [Davidson] wife of Dr. Robert T. Davidson, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co. NY] aged 24 years and 10 months.

ATWATER:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] June 23d, Mr. Edwin Atwater aged 75 years.

SCOTT:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] June 25th, Mr. Horace Scott aged 67 years.

Bainbridge, Chenango Co. NY:  We are pained to announce the death of two of our old and respected citizens - Edwin Atwater who departed this life on Monday afternoon last, and Horace Scott who died suddenly during the extreme heat on Monday afternoon.  Mr. Atwater had been confined to his house for a long time, and his demise was not unexpected.  He made full preparations for his funeral and disposal of his property by will.  Mr. Scott sat in his porch and conversed pleasantly with friends but a short time before he died, and although not in his accustomed good health, his death was sudden and unexpected. Thus, the old landmarks of our village are one by one passing from our midst.  Republican

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MORGAN:  Drowned in New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] June 28th, Eddie [Morgan] son of S.L. Morgan, aged 18 years.

On Saturday last the people of our village were startled by the report that Eddie Morgan was drowning in the river just above the north bridge.  A number rushed to the place, only to see Eddie upon the bank, dead.

The facts of the case, as we have been able to gather them are these: Eddie was upon the east side of the river, gathering water lilies.  there were two other boys upon the west side of the river, and they observed Eddie suddenly disappear from the bank into the water.  Not quite understanding the truth, they watched him disappear the third time beneath the water and not seeing him appear again, they became frightened and quickly gave the alarm.  But it being quite a little distance to the village, and as people were obliged to cross the bridge before reaching the place, and as there was some delay in getting the body, as the water was deep, it was too late to do anything for the unfortunate boy.  Fred Nichols dove into the water and obtained the body, and Drs. Dye and Noyes made every effort possible to restore him to consciousness. Reluctantly they gave up the task, as they became convinced that Eddie was really dead.

Eddie was the youngest son of S.L. Morgan, Esq. of this village, upon whom the blow falls heavily.  His funeral occurs today.

Upon the bank were found the water lilies that he had gathered and the theory is that he stepped down into the water to wash off the mud that had got upon his person while gathering the lilies.  the beautiful fact softens the sad event, that Eddie lost his life in trying to gather something that was pure and beautiful.  He was not even engaged in the innocent sports of boyhood, by which life is sometimes lost, but only gathering the sweetest and purest of flowers.

By the sweetly flowing river of life, he will gather the "river lilies," with immortal life crowning his angel face, with no fear of treacherous waters to swallow up the life that shall live forever.

Vital Records, Delaware (1834) & Otsego (1879) Counties, NY

 Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, January 8, 1834

Marriages

In Kortright [Delaware Co. NY] on the 1st inst. by the Rev. Wright Butler, Mr. Ira Wood of Delhi [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Sally Howland of Hamden [Delaware Co. NY].

At Hamden [Delaware Co. NY] on the 26th ult. by the -?- Jabez Bostwich, Mr. William Bear of Westford [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Laura Paige of the former place.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, January 15, 1834

Marriages

In this village [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] on Thursday evening, the 9th instant, by the Rev. Orange Clark, Mr. Jacob D. Clark junior editor of the Delaware Gazette to Miss Mary N. Hobbie.

In the village of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] on the 1st inst. by the Rev. Frederick F. Tiffany, Mr. R.J. Emmons merchant to Miss Elizabeth A. [Mergs] daughter of Edmond Mergs, Esq.

At South Worcester, Otsego Co. [NY] on Tuesday morning, 14th inst. Mr. Barney Wager of Davenport [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Nancy C. Stewart of the former place, youngest daughter of Gen. Stewart of Otsego [Otsego Co. NY].

At Gilbertsville, Otsego Co. [NY] on Tuesday evening 7th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Goodrich, Mr. Jabez S. Fitch, merchant of Bainbridge, Chenango Co. [NY] to Miss Catharine K. Gilbert daughter of Joseph T. Gilbert, Esq. of the former place.

Death

At Harpersfield [Delaware Co. NY] on Sunday morning last, Miss Ann Scofield aged 50 years.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, January 22, 1834

Marriages

In this town [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] on the 15th inst. by the Rev. O.L. Kirtland, Mr. Thomas M. Dennis of Harpersfield [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Louisa Yendes of the former place.

In Schoharie Village [Schoharie Co. NY] on Tuesday evening, 11th inst. by the Rev. Hamilton Van Dyck, of Prattsville, L. Hubbard, M.D. to Miss Evelina [Van Dyck] daughter of C.H. Van Dyck, M.D.

In Franklin [Delaware Co. NY] on the 1st inst. by the Rev. Elbert Osborn, Mr. Henry King to Miss Ann Harby all of Franklin.

At South Worcester, Otsego Co. [NY] on the 14th inst. by the Rev. John Gray, Mr. Barny Weager of Ghent, Columbia County [NY] to Miss Nancy C. [Stewart] daughter of Gen. James Stewart of the latter place.

Death

In this town [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] on the first day of December last, Mr. Jacob Boomhour in the 63d year of his age.  During a confinement of three weeks Mr. Boomhour bore his afflictions with entire submission to the will of heaven and died in full assurance that he was an heir of that rest that remains for the people of God.  He was a subject of early piety and ever adorned his profession by a close walk with his God.  He stood as a pillar in the temple of the new Jerusalem.  He was faithful in warning sinners to repent and flee from the wrath to come.  But alas! he is gone, and society mourns his loss. The weary pilgrim's, travelers through this veil of tears, found a safe retreat beneath the shadow of his roof.  Many a disciple of Jesus has been refreshed of his earthly store and found satisfaction to their soul whilst they have joined around the family altar and there poured out their souls to God.  But ah! why do we mourn for him, better to weep for ourselves, for his troubles are over, the battle is fought, the victory is won, and we have reason to believe that his spirit has joined the blood washed throng and is now singing the son of Moses and the Lamb.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, January 29, 1834

Marriage

In Bovina [Delaware Co. NY] on the 23d inst. by John M. Landon, Esq. Mr. Wright Tuttle to Miss Sally Light all of Bovina.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, September 17, 1879

Deaths

WANZER:  In Morris [Otsego Co. NY] Sept. 10th, Mrs. William Wanzer aged 28 years.

QUINCY:  In Columbus, Chenango Co. [NY] at the residence of her father, Deacon S. Brown, Mrs. Ida E. Quincy wife of Rev. W.J. Quincy, pastor of the Baptist Church, Morris [Otsego Co. NY] in the 22d year of her age.

DOOLITTLE: Near Edmeston Center [Otsego Co. NY] Sept. 3d, Mrs. Charlotte Doolittle aged 71 years and 11 months.

FINCH:  At Hope Factory [Otsego Co. NY], September 5th, Franklin Finch aged 35 years.

WILSON:  In Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] on Sunday afternoon Sept. 7th Mary [Wilson] wife of Mr .E. Wilson, aged about 56 years.

PHELPS:  In Morris, Sept. 5th, James Y. Phelps aged 72 years.