Vital Records, Otsego (1825), Chenango (1879) Counties, NY

 Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, February 1, 1825

Death

The Republican Monitor of Wednesday last says: We are informed that an event occurred in the town of Nelson [Madison Co. NY] on Monday, by which an individual was deprived of his existence in a manner as sudden to the victim as shocking to his friends.  Mr. Niles Matteson of that town, aged about 21 years, was employed in a grain mill and in stepping upon a cog wheel then in motion in order to arrange some machinery above, was caught by the wheel and crushed through a space but two and a half inches in width!  and instantly killed.  This illustrating the lesson so often taught, that "in the midst of life we are in death."

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, February 22, 1825

Death

Died in Western, Mass. upon the 23d of January last, Mrs. Agnes Blair wife of Mr. William Blair, aged 95 years.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, March 1, 1825

Marriages

At Maryland [Otsego Co. NY] on Thursday the 17th ult by the Rev. Nathan B. Wright, Mr. Reuben R. Fellows to Miss Betsy Goddard, daughter of Edward Gooddard, Esq.

In this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on the 24th ult. by E.H. Brush, Esq., Mr. Peter Darrow to Miss Susanna Cross both of Cherry Valley.

At Washington City on the 14th ult by the Rev. Mr. Hawley, Edward Kirby, Esq. of the United States Army to Miss Eliza A. Brown daughter of Major General Jacob Brown.

Deaths

At his seat near Schenectady [Schenectady Co. NY] on Sunday last, Mr. Thomas Powell aged about 50 years.

On the 21st ult at Whitestown [Oneida Co. NY], General George Doolittle.

At New York on the 22d ult, the Rev. John B. Romeyn, D.D.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, March 8, 1825

Marriages

On Thursday evening the 4th inst. by the Rev. C. Fitch, Mr. Leander Sanders to Miss Mary Hall, both of this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY].

On the 6th inst. by George Clyde, Esq. Mr. Rlijah Eaton to Miss Sylva Stevens both of this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY].

On the 15th ult at New York by the Rev. Mr. Berrian, the Rev. L. Silliman Ives, Rector of Trinity Church, Philadelphia to Miss Rebecca Smith Hobart daughter of the Right Rev. I.H. Hobart, D.D., bishop of the State of New York.

Death

In this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on the morning of the 7th inst. Hannah Maria [Johnson] daughter of Mr. Ezekiel Johnson in the 9th year of her age, much beloved and deeply lamented.

"Deceitful hope / In expectation's fondest dreams had smil'd / On thy fair promise! But thou hast left us! / Like a cold frost that nips the tender bud, / Death, with relentless hand, thy thread hath cut, / And bade affection mourn thy early loss"

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, March 22, 1825

Deaths

In the city of Albany [Albany Co. NY] on the 13th inst. Mrs. Laura Gilchrist wife of Mr. Robert Gilchrist, merchant, and youngest daughter of the Hon. Ambrose Spencer, in the 22d year of her age.  It is not easy to describe the loss which the relatives and acquaintance of this excellent and accomplished lady will experience in her early and sudden death.  With a mind of uncommon powers, early turned and freely devoted to the contemplation of religion and to the discharge of its various offices of virtue and charity, she was a rare example of its great value.  She was held in high estimation also for the gravity of her deportment and for the exhibition of the affections and accomplishments which adorn the female character.  To society, her loss will be great; to her husband and to her immediate friends, irreparable.  Argus

At Hartford, Ct., Col. William Richards aged 81.  He was a veteran of the revolution and worthy citizen.

At Havana on the 15th Feb., whither she had gone for the benefit of her health, Eliza [King] wife of Charles King, Esq. of N.Y. and daughter of Archibald Gracie, esq.

New Berlin Gazette, New Berlin, NY, April 21, 1879

Deaths

Dennis L. Casey died at his home in this village [Norwich, Chenango Col. NY] on Saturday of consumption.  He was a soldier of the 114th Regiment, was wounded in both feet at Winchester and was a pensioner.

Mr. William A. Smith formerly of this village [Morris, Otsego Co. NY] and for a number of years editor and proprietor of the Chronicle which paper he began publishing nearly twelve years ago, died at his residence in Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY] on the 3d inst. aged 61 years.

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

 McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, October 4, 1849

Marriages

In Freetown [Cortland Co. NY] on the 25th ult by Rev. H. Decker, Mr. Amos S. Howard of Clinton [Clinton Co. NY] and Miss Lovisa V. Avery of Eaton [Madison Co. NY].

By Rev. E.G. Bush on the 25th ult., Mr. Will I.J. Terry to Miss Julia Rose both of Cortlandville [Cortland Co. NY].

In Cortlandville [Cortland Co. NY] on the 26th ult by Rev. T.K. Fessenden, Mr. David Hannum to Miss Charlotte [Hitchcock] daughter of Horace Hitchcock.

In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY] on the 11th ult by Rev. Mr. Davies, Mr. C.H. Browning of Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss H.A. Ufford of the above place.

Death

In Cortlandville [Cortland Co. NY] on the 24th ult. Alvah [Kinney] son of Buel Kinney, aged 3 years.

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, October 11, 1849

Marriages

In Scott, Cortland Co. [NY] on the 7th inst. by N.H. Osborn, Esq. Thomas J. Taft of Spafford [Onondaga Co. NY] and Loucinda C. Mabie of the former place.

In Cortland Village [Cortland Co. NY] on the 10th inst. by Rev. G.K. Clark, Rev. A.K. Strong of Otisco [Onondaga Co. NY] and Miss Medora [Elder] daughter of William Elder of the former place.

In Fabius [Onondaga Co. NY] on the 3d inst. Mr. Stephen N. Peck of Solon [Cortland Co. NY] and Mrs. Clarissa Hobert of the former place.\

Deaths

In Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY] on the 19th of Sept. at his residence on Grange St. of quick consumption, Ammi Persons son of Ephrius Persons of Homer [Cortland Co. NY], aged 27 years.

The wave of trouble, how it pulls / How loud the tempest roars; / But death shall land our weary soule / Safe on the heavenly shores.

In Freetown [Cortland Co. Ny] Sept. 26th Olive Lucinda [Crosby] daughter of George W. and Olive Crosby aged 1 year 1 month and 12 days.

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, October 25, 1849

Death

In Homer [Cortland Co. NY] on the 22d inst. Polly [Merrill] wife of Philander Merrill aged 58 years.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, July 23, 1873

Deaths

We regret to announce the death of our fellow townsman Mr. Luzerne Ward. This sad event occurred in the drawing room car of the 7:20 A.M. train from Albany on Wednesday last, the -- inst. shortly after leaving Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY]. The body was brought on and removed from the train by the undertakers who had been telegraphed for to take charge of it.  Mr. Ward who was fortunately accompanied by his wife had been sick for a long time and had been away for the benefit of his health.  He was on his return home when his death occurred. The deceased was 61 years, 6 months and 2 days of age.  Unadilla Home & Abroad

John Winton one of the oldest inhabitants of this town [Morris, Otsego Co. NY] died on Monday July 21st, at the advanced age of 91 years 2 months and 2 days.  Mr. Winton came to this town with his parents about the time he was 14 years old and settled some three miles below the village on east side of the Butternut Creek and has resided in the town ever since.  For the last few years, he has lived with his son, John L. Winton, in this village.  Sixty years ago, Mr. Winton carried the mails on horseback, starting from this town on Sunday nights went to Cooperstown, thence to Richfield Springs, to Utica, to Norwich, to Oxford, to Unadilla, thence home to Morris, occupying the entire week in carrying the mails to all these places and the post offices between them.  Doubtless there are many aged people along the routes he used to travel who will remember Mr. Winton, when on horseback he entered the villages blowing his tin horn, notifying the country within sound of his horn, that the weekly mail had arrived.  He continued this service for about 12 years and then settled down to a farmer's life.  What changes has there been wrought during the life of this man.  He always enjoyed the confidence and respect of his fellow men.  for the last six years he was a great sufferer in mind and body. Thus, one after another, our fathers are passing over to the other side.  His funeral will be attended from Zion Church on Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, July 30, 1873

Death

In the death of E.R. Ford notice of which appears in another column, the people of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] lose one of their most respected Christian men and one of their pioneers in business. We have known him for twenty years and always found him a safe man to council with.  He had by hard work and strict economy amassed a large fortune which he used liberally for benevolent purposes. But he now has gone to his reward and his labors and works do follow him.

Vital Records, Chenango (1847), Otsego (1880) Counties, NY

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, October 6, 1847

Marriage

In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on the 3d inst., by Rev. J.S. Mitchell, Mr. German Randall of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Charlotte Friedenburgh of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

Death

In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] on the 12th ult. of a lingering and most painful illness, Miss Roxy Lucinda Church daughter of Benjamin Church, aged 21 years.  She suffered with Christian resignation in life and through Christ her Redeemer triumphed in death.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, October 20, 1847

Marriages

In Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY] on the 9th inst. by Rev. J.N. Chamberlin, Mr. Richard Se to Miss Sarah Marsh both of that place.

In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on the 14th inst. by Rev. J.S. Mitchell, Mr. George Hopkins of Norwich to Miss Rebecca Hall Union Vale Dutchess Co. [NY].

Deaths

In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] on the 5th of October, Benjamin R. Havely aged 18 years.

In Westmoreland, Oneida Co. [NY] on the 7th inst. of typhus fever, Miss Anay M. Marr, sister of George W. Marr of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], aged 19 years.

With painful feelings we announce the death of this estimable young lady.  She was a resident of our village [Norwich] and at the time of her death was on a visit to her relatives in Westmoreland, where she was overtaken by the disease that snatched her from the embrace of her friends and hurried her to the grave.  All who knew her, will bear testimony to her amiable character and her many virtues and will unite in deeply mourning her untimely death.  She was known only to be cherished with feelings of the most ardent friendship, and esteem. A uniformly kind and gentle disposition strongly endeared her to all. The friendship that was felt for her was read and unaffected.  It was a silent tribute paid to her virtues and her worth.  To her numerous kindred and relatives her loss is irreparable. The most cherished and beloved of their number in the morning of life has been suddenly taken form them forever.  A shining ornament has been stricken from the circle in which she moved, and a place made vacant which she alone could fill.  In contemplating her death, we feel in all its force, the truth of the saying "that death loves a shining mark" and may well exclaim, what shadows we are, and what shadows we pursue.

At his father's residence in Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY] on the 24th ult. William N. Billings aged 22 years.

He was a youth of more than common talents, of a kind disposition and engaging in his manners. He had just entered the study of law under favorable circumstances and was held in high estimation by all who knew him.  He has left a father, mother and two sisters to mourn his early death.  He descended to the grave calmly and with a firm hope of eternal life through the merits of the Redeemer.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, October 27, 1847

Marriage

In Warren, Ct. on the 28th ult. by the Rev. Mr. KLeep, Erasmus Bowen, Esq. of Homer [Cortland Co. NY] to Miss Hannah C. Howardi of the former place.

Death

In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on the 24th inst. Hezekiah Brown Esq. aged 69 years.

He was one of the earliest inhabitants of this town and performed the labors and endured the privations incident to the settlement of a new country.  Possessed of a strong and vigorous constitution, an excellent judgment, an ardent temperament with an indomitable perseverance and unbending integrity of purpose, he was admirably qualified to share the responsibilities which over devolve on the pioneers of a new country.  Though he had never enjoyed the advantages of what would now be regarded as a common school education, he was for many years honored by his fellow citizens with some of the most important trusts of the county and performed the duties imposed by the various offices which he held, with fidelity.  He was constant in his attachments to his friends and if he was too strong in his prejudices against those whom he regarded as enemies, it should be attributed to human infirmity.  Though a portion of his life was embittered by conforming to a custom which, when he entered upon public life, prevailed among all classes of men and is still conformed to by a great many individuals, yet for the last five years, he has carried out the letter the principle of total abstinence from all kinds of intoxicating liquors as a beverage. when, as a last resort, his physician and friends tho't it necessary to make use of a alcoholic stimulus, he obviously received it as a medicine only, and one of the most touching incidents of his sickness was undoubtedly designed to express what he found it impossible to embody in words, his dying testimony in favor of cold water as the appropriate drink for man. After he had become fully satisfied that he could not recover, the writer of this imperfect tribute to his memory proposed to him to take some spirits.  He hesitated a moment and then said he wanted some water from a spring a little distance from his house.  His request was complied with.  He drank for the last time from his favorite spring, while his condition indicated the peace and satisfaction he felt within.  Through life he manifested as unwavering devotion to the interests of his family and to secure the prosperity of two sons residing in Illinois that he visited that distant region and exposed himself to the miasma which floats abundantly in the atmosphere.  He returned, bringing in his physical system the seeds of death. Though everything was done for him that kindness and medical skill could suggest, he has relinquished his hold on life and left a numerous family and a large circle of relatives and friends to mourn his loss. The general tenor of his life was a practical comment on the sentiment expressed in the following lines.  "A wit's a feather, and a chief a rod, / An honest man's the noblest work of God."

Freeman's Journal Cooperstown, NY, March 4, 1880

Deaths

In Burlington [Otsego Co. NY] Jan. 1, 1880, Edward W. Hall aged 60(?) years.

In Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY] Feb'y 18th, Amos F. Wickwire in the 57th year of his age.

In Utica [Oneida Co. NY] March 1st of pneumonia, Mrs. John C. Spafard [sic, Spaford] formerly of this county [Otsego Co. NY], aged 72 years.  [Mary Hall Spaford]

At Wells Bridge [Otsego Co. NY], Feb. 21, Ellen [Moak] wife of Jacob Moak.

At Maple Grove [Otsego Co. NY], Feb. 22, William Baldwin aged 62 years and 4 months.

In Maryland Feb. 13, Mrs. Sophia Staley aged 70 years.

In New York, at the residence of his sister, Mrs. M.H. Hicks, Benjamin G. North formerly of Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] after a short illness int he 37th(?) year of his age.

At Mt. Vision [Otsego Co. NY] Feb. 25, after an illness of twenty-four hours, Paul Hillman [Greene] eldest son and last remaining child of Herman E. and Fnanie Hillman Greene, aged 4 years and 3months.  This is the last of three interesting children which have been taken from this family within a month past by a singularly fatal disease in which death appeared in the attack.

"Where is the flock that was given thee; thy beautiful flock?"

On Friday evening last, as the Albany and Susquehanna railroad train, which left Albany at 3:50 P.M. was nearing Richmondville [Schoharie Co. NY], one of the forward pony truck wheels suddenly broke, throwing the engine from the track.  Mr. Ostrander, the engineer whose residence is at Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], was so badly injured that he died on Sunday.

Vital Records, Madison (1867), Chenango (1880) Counties, NY

 Oneida Dispatch, Oneida, NY, April 20, 1867

Marriages

BABCOCK - BALCOM:  In Galesburg, Ill., Jan. 17th, by Rev. W.D. Clark, Mr. H.D. Babcock of Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] to Frances F. Balcom of Galesburg.

KINNEY - SUMNER:  In Hamilton [Madison Co., NY} on the 4th inst., by Rev. W.A. Smith, W.B. Kinney to Emma M. Sumner both of Munnsville [Madison Co. NY].

POND - ORMSBY:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] on the 7th inst. Mr. Eli Pond to Mrs. Margaret Ormsby both of Hamilton.

LERCH - LASHER:  In Canajoharie [Montgomery Co. NY] on the 4th inst., by Rev. C.A. Wiesselman, Mr. Jesse Lerch of Oneida [Madison Co., NY] to Elizabeth Lasher of Canajoharie.

ELY - VERNELLA: In Canastota [Madison Co. NY] on the 4th inst. by Rev. L.C. Rogers, Mr. Frederick A. .Ely to Miss Fanny Vernella all of Lenox [Madison Co. NY].

CHOATE - WEST:  At the residence of the bride, near Morrisville [Madison Co. NY] on the 10th inst. by Rev. S.S. Utter, Mr. George L. Choate to Miss Jennie West, daughter of Mr. Charles West, all of the town of Eaton [Madison Co. NY].

TORRENCE - ELMORE:  In Morris, Ill., April 4, 1867, at the residence of the bride's father by Rev. Mr. Borbrige, Mr. E.H. Torrence of Morris to Miss F.M. Elmore formerly of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY].

Deaths

BYER:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] on the 16th inst. Sibil Byer, widow of Nicholas Byer, for many years a resident of the town of Eaton [Madison Co. NY], aged 84 years.

PHILLIPS:  In Oneida [Madison Co. NY] on the 14th inst. of consumption, Bryan G. Phillips, aged 23 years.

MARSHALL:  In Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] on the 17th ult. Fannie S. [Marshall] daughter of thomas S. and Amelia Marshall, aged 2 years.

ISBELL:  In West Eaton [Madison Co. NY] on the 4th inst. Erminnie E. [Isbell] only child of Edward and Issette Isbell, aged nearly 2 years.

WELCH:  Near Earlville [Madison Co. NY] on the 7th inst. after a brief illness, Horace E. Welch aged nearly 50 years.

ALBERT:  In Madison [Madison Co. NY] on the 1st inst. Mrs. Elizabeth Albert aged 83 years and 11 months.

LAWRENCE:  In Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] on the 2d inst. Mrs. Phila Lawrence formerly of Georgetown [Madison Co. NY] aged 94 years.

BUCK:  Near Oneida [Madison Co. NY] on the 16th inst. of consumption Mr. Jonathan Buck aged about 42 years.

RAY:  In Phelps, Ontario Co. [NY] on the 27th ult of Consumption, Harriet M. [Ray] wife of Smith G. Ray and daughter of Eliphalet and Clarisa Vibert of Nelson [Madison Co. NY] aged 36 years.

OSTRANDER:  Peterboro, Madison Co. NY:  The funeral of Mr. Alexander Ostrander was attended at the Methodist church on Monday last.  Mr. O. was one of our oldest inhabitants, and about 85 years of age. Rev. Mr. Longstreet officiated and Hon. Gerrit Smith also made remarks.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, January 17, 1880

Marriage

The reception given by Mr. and Mrs. M. O'Brien on Saturday evening of last week was a very pleasant affair, in fact one of the finest of the season.  At an early hour the guests began to assemble and at about nine o'clock they numbered upwards of sixty.  Lobdell's String Band, assisted by "Lot" Crosby and Al Buchanan, furnished the music and all who had the pleasure of hearing pronounced it as being particularly fine.  All who wished, had an opportunity and nearly all took an active part in the dance and from eight to eleven the floors were well filled.  In the meantime, a luxurious repast was spread in the dining room, which was served to the guests in splendid style and partaken of in a manner that showed it was duly appreciated. At a seasonable hour the guests departed, leaving with the newly wedded pair their heartiest congratulations and earnest wishes that the new voyage on which they have embarked may be attended with prosperity and happiness.

Deaths

DAVIS:  In Milo, Yates County, N.Y., Jan. 11, 1880, Mr. Orlando Davis, formerly of this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], aged 85 years and 9 months.

ELY:  Rev. Isaac M. Ely pastor of the Congregational Church at Chenango Forks [Broome Co. NY], died at his residence on Wednesday evening of last week, after a brief illness.  His funeral took place on Saturday, Rev. Dr. Taylor with other clergymen officiating. [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY]

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1880)

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 27, 1880

Marriages

At the residence of the bride's mother in this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], May 18th, by Rev. H.W. Gilbert of Binghamton, Mr. Reuben Hills of Verona, Oneida Co. [NY] and Miss Mary Van Ness of Greene.

At the residence of the bride's parents in this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] May 6th, by Rev. J.F. Taunt, Mr. Willie J. Harrison of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Callie [Rathbone] youngest daughter of L.B. Rathbone, Esq.

In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] Feb. 18th, by Rev. Mr. Rawson, Julius Frimont of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Jeanie Wilson of Cleveland, Oswego Co. N.Y.

At the house of Alvin Converse May 17th, by Rev. D.N. Grummon, C. Franklin Shaver to Harriet M. Everett both of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY].

At St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Montrose, Pa., May 10th, by Rev. E.A. Warrenar, John R. Glover Esq. of Oxford, N.Y. [Chenango Co.] to Miss Lillian E. [Henstock] youngest daughter of Mrs. A.M. Henstock of Montrose, Pa.

Miss Crace I. Howland, lately of our school, and Mr. Norman Prentice were married at the residence of the bride's parents at Newark Valley [Tioga Co. NY] recently.

Deaths

At Sherburne Four Corners [Chenango Co. NY] May 16th, Capt. Milton Bentley aged 80 years 7 months and 9 days.

In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] May 6th, Hannah [Breed] wife of Abel Breed, aged 67 years, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] May 24th, Mrs. W.V. Hakes aged 62 years.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] May 12th, Carrington [Winchell] child of Charles G. and Kate M. Winchell, aged 1 year. 

Thurlow Weed's grandfather is buried in a farm burial ground on the farm of W.W. Barnes, in the town of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].  Oxford Times; Thurlow Weed's grandfather, as we are informed by good authority, was buried in the Indian Brook burying ground in this town [Greene], which was regularly laid out and located near Jackson's corners. The ground was originally a portion of the Benjamin Jackson farm.  This is not a farm burial ground as stated by the Times but a public Cemetery where now repose the remains of nearly 200 persons.

Civil War Letter, March 1862

 Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, March 12, 1862

Civil War Letter

Camp Keyes, March 5th, 1862

Friend Carpenter, I am still at the Hospital, where I have been a little more than a month, but am getting better very slow.  There are ten in the hospital besides myself and none of them are dangerously ill, at least at meal times I believe they are on hand to take their rations. There has-been but one death since I come here.  I am not so sick but that I am around the camp when the weather will permit, but I'm not in a condition to do duty and from present appearances, it will be some time before I am.  I have had the best of care or good as one can have with our conveniences. The hospital is not perhaps as comfortable as a wood house would be and you not being used to a soldier's life, might think it a little tough at first right. Still, we manage to get along very well, having become used to them.  No matter if it did come a little rough at first, it is all in the soldiers' program and it must be performed or the recruit would be complaining that they did not perform all he saw advertised and hence he had been deceived.  He must watch the "small bills" and I think he will quickly see the "elephant."  When I think of soldiering, it reminds me of a story I since heard of a sailor, who was advised to do without his grog.  He said, "it was not the rum in it, but the water that done him harm." Now I think that soldiering of itself is not so bad. It is the many inconveniences that grow out of it which makes me dislike the business, and I will venture to say that some of the boys, even from Oneonta, are very well satisfied who stole the suckers.

A few days since, we had a very heavy gale of wind.  It made awful havoc among trees and tents.  It blew down the front part of the hospital.  You can make up your mind that there was one that made his escape from the ruins about as soon as he could.  There was no common time about it, but double quick was the time which suited him best.  Trees were blown up by the roots.  Some of them fell all around the tents, but I believe none got hurt by the falling trees.  It was great sport for the boys in trying to put up their tents.  They would hardly get them up before down they would go.  As a man out your way used to say, I would be "disprised" if that wind did not excel any wind I ever saw.

Our Regiment is under marching orders and are expecting to march every day.  They are all packed up and most of the boys are sending the clothes they do not need to Washington to be kept until their return.  On inquiring, I find that all the Regiments about here are under the same orders.  They are going to have no such times as they did when they advanced before. They are to move sure and safe.  It is thought by some that the Rebels will not make a stand at Manassas, but that they will leave their forts entirely.  But I think they will make a desperate effort to hold their forts.  The moment we get Manassas, it leaves the road clear to march to Richmond.  But there is no use of my writing anything about the war, as you know as much about it as I do and perhaps more. But I do think that when the Rebels are driven out of Manassas and Richmond, that Secessionism is killed in Virginia and this will have a great deal to do with the termination of this war.

Homer Broadwell came to see me last Saturday.  He is looking well and feeling fine.  He prevailed upon me to take his horse and go over to the 43d Regt. and get a blanket which the Relief Society at Oneonta had sent him and having a bundle there also and thinking it would do me good to ride.  I bundled up and went over and got well paid for going.  Besides getting my bundel, Dr. Case loaded me up with things useful.   Homer was well pleased with his blanket. The doctor was well and all the boys of the 43d.  

Yours &c.  W. Custshaw

Vital Records, Broome (1838), Otsego (1862) Counties, NY

 Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, August 9, 1838

Deaths

The last Soldier of the Old French War in Canada is gone!  Died, in Warren County, Tennessee, on the 8th of June, Mr. John Luck (pronounced Lisk in his native Dutch) at the advanced age of one hundred and four years.  He was born on Staten Island, New York, on the 5th of Nov. 1714, and was of Dutch extraction.  Mr. Luck was in regular service for well-nigh 60 years!

Died at his residence in Ithaca [Tompkins Co. NY] on the 27th ult. the Hon. Adrew D.W. Bruyn, member of Congress.

At Philadelphia on the 1st instant, Commodore John Rogers of the U.S. Navy.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, August 16, 1838

Marriage

Married on the 8th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Andrews, Hiram Birdsall of this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] to Mary [Parker] daughter of the late Philip T. Parker, Esq. of Albany [Albany Co. NY].

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, August 23, 1838

Marriage

Married on Tuesday evening, Aug. 21, by the Rev. Edward Andrews, Mr. Henry M. Collier to Sarah [Pierce] daughter of Mr. Marimus Pierce, all of this town [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY].

Death

Died in the town of Conklin [Broome Co. NY] on the 21st ultimo, Mr. Elias Bevier aged 86 years.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, August 30, 1838

Marriage

Married in this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] on Sunday the 26th inst. by George E. Isbell Esq., Mr. Samuel Wagner of Union [Broome Co. NY] to Elizabeth Tracy of Lisle [Broome Co. NY].

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, March 19, 18621

Deaths

At West Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] March 12th, Mrs. Huldah Wakely wife of Noah Wakely in the 74th year of her age.

In Davenport [Delaware Co. NY] Feb. 26th, Mrs. Almira Bixby wife of Samuel Bixby, in the 74th year of her age, formerly of Otsego County [NY].

In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] on the 9th inst. Mr. Abner Gilbert aged 76 years.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, March 26, 1862

Marriages

On the 19th inst. by Rev. J. Smith, Jr., Mr. Theodore Lyon of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Mary G. Pearse of Albany [Albany Co. NY].

On the 20th inst. at the residence of the bride's mother, by Rev. T.F. Babcock, Mr. Benjamin J. Webb to Miss Adelade A. Lathrop all of Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY].

In Masonville [Delaware Co. NY] March 18th by Rev. G.G. Donnally, Mr. D. Wilmot Scott of Galena, Ill. to Miss Ann Eliza Saxe of Masonville.

Deaths

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] on the 16th inst. Mrs. Sylva Hyde aged 63 years.

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY] on the 19th inst. Mr. Elijah Gilbert aged 86 years.

At Whitesboro [Oneida Co. NY], March 13th in the 16th year of his age, John G. [Pattengill] only son of Lucia G. and Rev. O. N. Pattengill, formerly of Otsego Co. [NY].

In Rochester [Monroe Co. NY] on the 10th inst. Julia Crafts [Little] wife of William S Little, aged 26 years. The deceased was a daughter of the late Gen. Erastus Crafts of this county [Otsego Co. NY].

The telegraphic announcement on Wednesday last, that Lieut. George D. Allen of the 51st Regiment, was slain at the battle of Newbern, N.C., threw a feeling of gloom over our village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY].  Lieut. Allen was a young man of good talent and the most exemplary character, who had won the confidence and esteem of our citizens. We believe he was a native of Westford [Otsego Co. NY]. He taught one of the District Schools of this village several terms. Soon after the breaking out of the war he was actively engaged in raising a company of which he was made 2d Lieutenant and was afterwards promoted to first.  His untimely death will be deeply regretted by a large circle of friends and acquaintances.  F. Journal

Mr. Lester R. Miller of this village [Franklin, Delaware Co., NY], died suddenly on Friday morning last, probably from apoplexy.  He had been complaining somewhat and had a physician during the night preceding his death, who left him apparently better.  In the morning, Mrs. Millelr left the room for a short time, supposing him asleep and returned to his bedside, he was dead!

Mr. Miller was a native of Hartland, Ct., but has resided here most of the time for over twenty years. As a dealer in watches, jewelry ad silver wares, he had become extensively and favorably known in Delaware, Otsego, Greene, Chenango and other adjacent counties.  He conducted a large business on a scale of such fairness and integrity as to secure the public confidence and respect, and he will be much missed in many towns and neighborhoods to which he made his periodic visits.  Mr. Miller was a man of simple habits, unostentatious manners, a kind neighbor and a useful citizen.  He died at the age of fifty-one years.  Franklin Visitor, 19th inst.

Vital Records, Otsego (1862), Chenango (1879) Counties, NY

 Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, March 5, 1862

Marriages

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] March 1st, by Milton Gurney, Esq., Mr. Linson Miller to Miss Annette Green, all of Laurens.

Also, by the same, Mr. Eugene Edson of Milford [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Mary Richardson of Laurens [Otsego Co. NY].

At Milford Centre [Otsego Co. NY] March 2d, by Myron Yager, Esq., Mr. Wesley Clark of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Polly Comstock of Davenport, Delaware Co. [NY].

Deaths

We learn from the Franklin Visitor that Frederick Couse of Davenport [Delaware Co. NY] living in the Houghtaling settlement, was killed by the falling of a tree a short time since.  The tree was about to fall, endangering a yoke of oxen, and in endeavoring to get them out of danger, was too late to save himself.

Sargeant Babcock, of Capt. Murphy's Company, Third N.Y. Cavalry, as we stated in our paper two weeks since, came home on a furlough for a few days, the same having been obtained in consequence of the illness of his wife.  On arriving home, he found his wife in feeble health, and each day growing weaker and weaker.  It was soon too evident that her time was near at hand.  Our friend's furlough about expiring, by the stern rules of war, he must return to camp by the time specified or be deemed a deserter.  True to the honor of a soldier, he bade his wife a long, long farewell, for he knew it was the last time he should ever look upon her face and started for his Regiment.  She lingered along until Saturday night, when He who recruits for eternity summoned her to the Camp of the Almighty, ever after to drill with the Armies of Heaven, Schoharie Rep of the 27th ult. [Catherine Aurelia Kniskern Babcock, wife of Alphonzo Harvey Babcock. d. Feb. 23, 1862, aged 22y]

Schoharie Patriot:  In this village [Schoharie, Schoharie Co. NY], on Saturday evening last, Mrs. Catharine Babcock, wife of Sergeant A.H. Babcock of the Van Alen Cavalry, and only daughter of Mr. John J. Kniskern of this village, aged 22 years.  Mrs. B. leaves two infants, the youngest but a few days old to be nurtured and reared without the fostering care of their mother.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, March 12, 1862

Marriage

The marriages which we published last week, purporting to have been performed by Milton Gurney, Esq., turns out to be a hoax. They were written by some person who had some revenge against the parties to satisfy. A person who would be guilty of such meanness should be despised and shunned by all respectable people.

Deaths

In Davenport [Delaware Co. NY] Feb. 29th, Mrs. Almira Bixby wife of James Bixby in the 75th year of her age, formerly of Otsego County [NY].

A man by the name of McDonnell a cancer doctor, was frozen to death on Monday night of last week near Middlefield Centre [Otsego Co. NY].  He passed through this village on his return home from Michigan, where he had been for some time, and stopped at the Centre.  He was urged to stay overnight, but his anxiety to reach home induced him toi refuse the kind offer. The body was discovered on Tuesday, a short distance from home.  C.V. Gazette, 5th inst.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, December 24, 1879

Marriages

HUBBARD - TERRELL: In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 17th, by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. George H. Hubbard of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Mary V. Terrell of Harpersville [Broome Co. NY].

WHIPPLE - PORTER:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 10th, by Rev. H.N. VanDeusen, Mr. Austin R. Whipple of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] and Miss Ella E. Porter of Greene.

PERKINS - WIDGER: In Chicago [IL] Nov. 13th, by Rev. J. Williamson, Mr. George R. Perkins of Chicago and Miss Emma D. Widger, late of Iowa.

KEOUGH - KEOUGH:  At Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY] Nov. 10th by Rev. Mr. Smith, Mr. William Keough of German [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Ann Keough of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY].

GILBERT - BLIVIN:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 10, by Rev. A.W. Barrows, Mr. Lowell K. Gilbert and Miss Lottie R. Blivin.

Deaths

LEWIS:  In Bozeman, Montana, Dec. 5th, of scarlet fever, after two days' illness, Giles Deshon [Lewis], youngest son of the Rev. Frank B. Lewis and Georgia F. Ambler, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] aged 6-1/2 years.

HOLMES:  In Taylor, Cortland Co. [NY], Nov. 30th, Jane E. [Holmes] daughter of Leonard Holmes. (incorrectly printed last week)

FISH:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 14th, Mr. Charles H. Fish aged 41 years.

News Item

Guilford, Chenango Co. NY:  A Post of the G.A.R. was organized in this place Friday evening by H.M. Swift and others of the Afton Post, to be known as Gilbert Post, No. 139.  It receives its name in memory of Lt. Edwin Gilbert who enlisted from this, his birthplace in Co. A, 114th Reg't and was the first to lay down his young life for his country.  His remains were brought home and buried in our cemetery and his memory still lives fresh in the hearts of his many friends and comrades. The following officers were installed as far as we were able to obtain them:  T.G. Ingersoll, Commander, S.A. DeLavan, Adjutant; James Alcott, Quartermaster; W.O. Nash, Senior Commander. The prospects for a large and flourishing lodge are very favorable.

Second Lieutenant James Edwin Gilbert

The name of another of Chenango's honored sons, who yielded up his life in his country's service, heads this brief memorial.

James E. Gilbert was born in Guilford, Chenango County, New York, July 7, 1839.  His parents were Orlando S. and Dorcas Gilbert.  For the last few years previous to the breaking out of the rebellion, he was engaged both as a student and a teacher.  He attended Norwich and Oxford Academies for several terms, and afterwards was engaged as a teacher in both public and select schools and was always beloved by his pupils.  Like many other young men, Lieutenant Gilbert took a deep interest in the great struggle for freedom, and on the 23d day of July 1862, he enrolled himself as a member of Captain Curtis' Company A. On the 6th of August following, he was commissioned its Second Lieutenant, and formally mustered September 3d, of the same year.  As a mark of esteem, his company presented him with a sword, sash and belt, which he wore with honor to himself and to those bestowing the gift.  He proceeded with his company to Louisiana, where early in February 1863, he was attacked with typhoid fever which terminated his life on the 16th of that month.  

A meeting of the officers of his regiment was called, and resolutions were adopted, expressive of their love and esteem for him as an officer, and their grief at his loss.  Lieutnenat Gilbert was a young man of perfect habits, temperate, moral, and of a pure character.  He was one of those few young men against whom naught of error could be said. He was a member of the Episcopal Church and was esteemed and respected by all who knew him.  His remains were sent to his home for interment and a monument erected to his memory by his many friends. [Brevet Major Elias P. Pellet, History of the 114th Regiment New York State Volunteers (Telegraph & Chronicle Power Press Print, Norwich, NY, 1866) pp375/6.