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

 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 [Chenango Co. NY] 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 Abay 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, 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 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 real 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 from 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 was aging 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.

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

Deaths

In Burlington [Otsego Co. NY] Jan. 7, 1880, Edward W. Hall aged 58 years.

In Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY] Feb'y 18th, Amos F. Wickwire in the 77th year of his age.

At Middleport, Niagara Co. N.Y. Feb. 25, 1880, John ----ing  formerly of New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY].

At Wells Bridge [Otsego Co. NY] Feb. 27, Ellen [Moak] wife of Jacob Moak, aged 71(?) years.

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

In Maryland [Otsego Co. NY] Feb. 13, Mrs. Sophia Staley aged 76 years.

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

At Mt. Vision [Otsego Co. NY], Feb 26, after an illness of twenty-four hours, Paul Hillman [Greene] eldest son and last remaining child of Herman E. and Fannie Hillman Greene, aged 4 years and 3 months.  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. [John Henry] Ostrander the engineer, whose residence is at Oneonta [Otsego co. NY] was so badly injured that he died on Sunday. [d. 29 Feb. 1880, aged 50y]

________________________

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

Freeman's Journal, Cooperatown, NY, March 11, 1880:  Death of John C. Spafard:  This gentleman, a native of Otsego [County NY] and at one time a prominent citizen and local politician--having been Supervisor of Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY], a candidate for County Clerk, Member of Assembly in 1853--died in Utica [Oneida Co. NY] where he had long resided on the 4th inst.  He was a gentleman of most excellent qualities of head and heart.  His wife, a few years older than himself, died only the week previous.  The Utica Herald says:

John C. Spafard, one of Utica's oldest citizens, died in this city yesterday, aged 66 years.  The deceased for many years was an accountant in the Utica Savings Bank.  For some time past he held the office of assistant treasurer of the bank and was a faithful official.  He was a quiet man, who devoted the greater part of his life to his business and took no active part in public matters.  His wife died Sunday of this week.  The death of the husband within a few days makes this a peculiarly sad case.  Two children are left, Mrs. A.D. Barber, Jr. and Charles E. Spafard. They will receive the sincere sympathy of a large number of friends in their double affliction.

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

 Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, April 2, 1808

Death

In Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] the 25th ult. Mr. Asaph Adams, in the 48th year of his age, of a consumptive disorder.  Mr. Adams, through life sustained the character of an honest, useful and valuable member of community.  He was a kind husband, a good parent, a pleasant companion and an obliging neighbor.  A bereaved widow and nine children are left to mourn their loss.  Among the mourners the Editor claims a place.  An acquaintance of nearly thirteen years has endeared the memory of a man who was ever cheerful and pleasant and the circumstance of packing a bundle of papers inscribed "Asaph Adams Class," for about 624 weeks successfully, is sufficient, independent of his numerous good and amiable qualities, to engrave his name on a retrospective and grateful heart.  He died with a confidential though humble dependence on the infinite merits and complete atonement of the Savior of mankind.

His body sweetly sleeps in Earth, / Until the great and second birth; / Then cheerfully, we hope, he'll rise, / And greet his Savior in the skies.

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, April 9, 1808

Deaths

New Orleans, Mar. 4: It is with regret we record the death of John Ward Gurley, Esq. late Attorney General of this Territory, who fell in a duel with Philip L. Jones, Esq. yesterday afternoon.  He was shot dead the first fire & Mr. Jones received a flesh wound in his leg.  His death is sincerely regretted by his numerous and respectable acquaintance and friends.

Died in Burlington [Otsego Co. NY] on the 2d inst, Mrs. Luriama Hubbel consort of Mr. Lemuel, Jun. of a putrid nervous fever, in the 24th year of her age, leaving a disconsolate partner and one child, as a pledge of their mutual affection. She was a daughter of Mr. David Chapin of Richmond, Massachusetts.

Elopement

About two months since, my wife Katy [Wolcott] left my bed and board without any just cause or provocation.  This is therefore to forbid any person, whatever, trusting the said Katy, on my account, as I am determined to pay no debt of her contracting after the first day of February last.  William Wolcott, April 9, 1808.

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, April 16, 1808

Marriage

Married, int he town of Exeter [Otsego Co. NY], on the evening of the 8th instant, Mr. Daniel Smith to Miss Eunice Brown.

Death

At Hebron, Conn. on the night of the 2d inst., Miss Hannah Horton, daughter of Mr. Ebenezer Horton, aged 20(?).  The circumstances of her death are as follow:  In the evening she retired to rest and as is supposed, left a candle burning by her which communicated to the clothes.  Sometime after the family were alarmed by the scent of fire.  Her brother went into the room, found the bed on fire and called her to awake, or she would burn to death. But no answer being given, he rushed into the flames, pulled her out, but she was asleep to awake no more!  It is hoped, that this will prove a serious caution to all against a similar disaster.

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, April 23, 1808

Death

On Friday last, as a daughter of Mrs. Bacon of Preston [Chenango Co. NY] was passing through a field where her brother was burning brush, her clothes accidentally caught fire and burnt her in a most shocking manner.  Her brother instantly ran to her assistance and stript off her clothes, with which her skin came also, and led her to the house. She survived about 26 hours when, in the most excruciating pain, she breathed her last.

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, April 30, 1808

Elopement

Whereas my wife Sarah [Babcock] has eloped from my bed & board and wholly refuses to cohabit with me; this is therefore to forbid all persons from trusting her on my account, as I shall pay no debts of her contracting and also hereby forbid all persons harboring or employing her, on penalty of the law.  William Babcock, Burlington [Otsego Co. NY], April 29, 1808.

Otsego Herald, Cooperstown, NY, May 14, 1808:  Whereas my husband, William Babcock, has made this manifest that I fled from his bed and board, I therefore say he had neither of them of his own when I left him.  His house and shop he had disposed of, likewise the cow and heifer, that was lent me by my father, was sold at public sale, to answer his unwise debts; he being in a habit of being from home a great part of his time, and out of his business and drinking strong liquor to excess; and leaving me unwell, with two small children, without wood or fire, money and other necessaries, except what was furnished for me from my fathers' house.  Sometimes, when he was at home, he would be intoxicated by liquor or passion, and threaten to kill himself by night and day, which frightened me and many others, by which means I have greatly suffered, and have lived with him in hopes of a reformation by his promising he would reform and being very unwilling to break up my family and disgrace my children.  I can make appear by many, when I left him, that I told him if he would settle his business and be steady and provide ma a home of his own, I was ready to return to him, if it was his will.  I have resorted to my father's house, upon furtherance, with my two little babes, by my said husband's consent, with what furniture my father had lent me. As to his forbidding anyone employing or trusting me on his account, I think was quite needless.  I have full employ, as unwell as I am, to take care of my two babes, and as I am sure, I could earn ten dollars at my loom and wheel was I well, in less time than I might spend to get trusteed one dollar on his account where he is known; to try to be trusted where he is not known, I should consider it dishonest. I am therefore determined to do the best I can, until such time as I can see a prospect of his doing better. Be pleased, Ladies, to beware of his flattery, lest he should deceive you, as he has me.  Sarah Babcock, Burlington [Otsego Co. NY], May 12, 1808

News Item

We have taken some pains to ascertain the names and ages of those offices now in the army, who were in our revolutionary war, together with the number of years they served their country during and since that memorable event. We apprehend the following to be pretty correct.

Name	Years of Service	Ages
General Wilkinson	25	56
Colonel Burbeck	28	55
Colonel Hunt	25	55
Colonel cashing	25	49
Lieut. Col. Freeman	20	56
Lieut. Col. Kingsbury	31	50
Lieut. Col. Sparks	20	46
Major Pike	25	57
Major Porter	28	50
Major Bissall	20	53
Major Stoddard	16	45
Captain Whittley	19	54
Captain Beall	15	52
Captain Ray	13	48

At least eight of the above named gentlemen entered the revolutionary army as Privates.  Ten of them retired with commissions at the commencement of peace; none higher than the grade of captains, except the general.  Four of them at that period were either non-commissioned officers or privates.  It may be said, that these officers have grown grey in the service of their country.  Natchez Gazette

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, April 19, 1825

Deaths

In this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY], on Wednesday, last, Mrs. Hannah Cannon, consort of Col. James Cannon, aged 71 years.

At Leesville, Schoharie County [NY] on the 11th instant, Miss Joanna Beekman, daughter of the late John Beekamn of that place and granddaughter of the Hon. William Beekman in the 15th year of her age.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, May 10, 1825

Marriage

Married on the 4th inst. by George Clyde, Esq. Mr. Joel Gillet to Miss Charity Finch both of this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY].

Death

Died in this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co., NY] on the 9th instant, Martha [Barnett] daughter of Melancton and Mary Barnett, aged one year and eight months.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, May 24, 1825

Marriage

On Monday last by the Rev. Mr. Tiffany, Mr. Joseph Calder, Jun. to Miss Ellen Keeling, both of this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY]

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

 McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, November 1, 1849

Death

Mr. Gideon Cady of this village [New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY] while chopping in the woods last week, was struck on the head by a falling tree and killed.  His body was not found until Wednesday morning of this week.  The position in which the body was discovered, the appearance of the ground around it, each indicates that he must have struggled hard before death ensued.  About three weeks ago, near the same spot, Mr. Dennison of Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY] had his arm so badly fractured by the limb of a tree as to require amputation.  "In the midst of life, we are in death." New Berlin Gazette

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, November 8, 1849

Marriages

In Cortlandville [Cortland Co. NY] on the 1st inst., by Rev. William NH. Pearne, Mr. George McHallany and Miss Charity Algar all of the former place.

In McGrawville [Cortland Co. NY] on the 7th inst., by Rev. C. Darby, Mr. Storrs Boynton and Miss Sophia Persons all of the above place.  the Printer was duly remembered.

News Item

Boy Lost:  Left the House of his father in Cohoes, N.Y. [Albany Co.], on the 27th of May last, a lad named Archibald Love, aged 12 years, rather small for his age, light hair and rather thin, has a scar on his left cheek, occasioned by the bit of a cat.  The middle finger on the left hand has been cut off on the joint near the hand.  He had on when he went away, a striped and mixed cotton roundabout and pants.  to any person giving information to the editor of this paper, or to his father, Malcom Love, at Cohoes, N.Y., that will lead to the recovery of the boy, dead or alive, a liberal reward will be given.  Editors west, favorable to the cause of humanity, will please notice the above editorially.

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, November 15, 1849

Marriages

In Elliottville, Cattaraugus Co. [NY] on the 3d inst. by Rev. Sylvester Cowles, Mr. Enos Persons of Bradford, McKoen Co., Pa., and Miss Mary Blair of the former place.

In Georgetown, Madison Co. [NY]\ on the 6th inst. by Rev. R. Persons, Jr., Mr. Joseph S. Lawten of DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY] and Miss D. Electa Brown of the former place.

Deaths

In Schenectady [Schenectady Co. NY] on the 25th September, John N. Spour son of Mrs. Homer Greenman, in consequence of being caught between the cars when connecting them together, aged 19 years.  In the midst of life, we are in death.

Oft alas! the tear of sadness / Glistens in the mother's eye, / Yet those tears will change to gladness, / If the Savior, Christ, be nigh.

In Scott [Cortland Co. NY], on the 23d ult. of inflammatory croup, Josephine Louisa [Knight] only daughter of Philander and Electra L. Knight, aged 2 years 10 months and 14 days.

McGrawville Express, McGrawville, NY, November 22, 1849

Marriages

In Edmeston, Otsego Co. [NY], by Elder S.G. Jones, Mr. Hiram Right to Miss Emily Chase.

In the same place, by the same, David Colgrow to Miss Jane Bennett.

In the same place, by the same, Sylvenus Colgrow to Miss Nancy L. Dye.

In the same place, by the same, Warren Colgrow to Miss Mary Bennett.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, September 3, 1873

Deaths

Aug. 29:  In Morris [Otsego Co. NY] of consumption, at the residence of his brother, O.A. Edwards, John Edwards, Jr., aged 42 years.

The funeral of John Edwards will be held from the residence of his brother on Broad Street this Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock under the direction of the Masonic order. Rev. Wm. H. Hiller of Butterntus, officiating.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, September 10, 1873:  Quite a large number of Masons attended the funeral of John Edwards, Jr., on Tuesday, 2d inst.  Laurens and Butternuts Lodges were largely represented.  The occasion was rendered very imposing by the attendance of the Butternuts and Morris bands.

Aug. 31:  In Morris [Otsego Co. NY] of heart disease, John Thomas aged about 75 years.

We, as well as the many friends of Bishop Tuttle, regret to learn of the death of the twin daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tuttle.  It will be remembered that it is but a few months since we chronicled the death of the little boy, under most sad circumstances.   Kittie Tuttle was buried at Salt Lake City, August 20th. the Bishop being absent at the time and unable to reach home.  The family have the sympathy of numerous friends in Morris [Otsego Co. NY].

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, September 17, 1873

Marriage

Sept. 11:  At Morris [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. W.G. Queal, Mr. Henry E. Briggs of West Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Alta S. Burdick of Otego [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

Aug. 5:  In Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY] Miss Emily F. Wright aged 20 years.

Aug. 16:  In Burlington [Otsego Co. NY], Ella Frances Sloan, aged 9 years.

Sept. 1:  In Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] Mrs. Mary A. Sibley aged 38 years.

Sept. 2:  In Sidney [Delaware Co. NY] Jacob Olendorf int he 80th year of his age.

Sept. 5:  In Greensboro, Georgia, Gertrude [Warner] wife of J.B. Warner, and daughter of Richard Franchot, Esq. of Schenectady [Schenectady co. NY].

Sept. 7:  In West Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] Mrs. Polly Stanton, aged 64 years, 7 months and 11 days.

Sept. 9:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Gracie [Hubbell] only daughter of A.R. Hubbell, aged 2 months and 21 days.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, September 17, 1873

Deaths

We learn that Mr. Harvey Strong, an old and well known resident of the village of Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] died at his residence last week, aged about 76 years, and was buried last Sunday.  His funeral was largely attended by the Masonic Fraternity.

Robert F. Hume of West Burlington [Otsego Co. NY] was on a freight train going down the Hudson River Railroad on Wednesday night, Sept 3d.  He had a lot of sheep and was on his way to New York.  On the train reaching Hudson [Columbia Co. NY], he got out of the caboose and by permission of the brakeman, entered a box car, which was attached to the train and laid down.  At Hyde Park he was first missed.  Search was made for him at Poughkeepsie through the line of cars, but no trace of him could be found, save a cane picked up in the box car where Hume was last seen.  Suspicion of foul play was at once entertained, and a reward of $100 offered for any information concerning his whereabouts.  In the search by his friends, the body of Mr. Hume was found in the Hudson River, near Hudson, on Saturday evening, Sept. 6th.  No bruises were found on his body.  It was thought that he was standing in the car near the door and when the train started he was thrown into the river.  His remains arrived at his late residence in Burlington, on Monday the 8th inst.  He was about 37 years of age.

Samuel Brown died at his father's (John Brown) residence in Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] last week and was buried last Sunday, aged 27 years.  His remains were followed to the grave on the farm in the family burying ground by a large family of relatives and by a large number of Masons and neighbors.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, September 24, 1873

Marriage

Sept. 11:  At Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. J.M. Chamberlin, Charles M. Morton to Ella D. Deming.

Sept. 11:  At Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. J.M. Chamberlin, Homer Bilyea to Ida M. Bassett.

Sept. 14:  At Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] by Rev. D.L. Pendell, William Potter of New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Olive E. Barton of Burlington [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

Sept. 3:  In Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] Mrs. Elizabeth Kenyon, aged 46 years.

Sept. 9:  In Colliersville [Otsego Co. NY], Mrs. Emeline V. Wright aged 44 years.

Sept. 13: In Milford [Otsego Co. NY] Mrs.  Hannah Smith aged 92 years.

Sept. 21:  In Garrattsville [Otsego Co. NY] Ansel Tuller, aged 67 years.

Civil War Letter, March 1862 - 1st NY Cavalry - Homer Broadwell

 Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, March 26,  1862

Civil War Letter, Homer Broadwell, 1st NY Cavalry

Head Quarters, 1st N.Y. Cavalry, March 15th, 1862

Since my last, there has been considerable going on in Virginia.  On the 10th inst. we were in the saddle on our way for the Rebel stronghold.  We all felt elated and cheer after cheer rang through valleys, hills and woods at the glorious prospect before them.  Oh! It would have done a patriot's heart good to have seen an Army of 150,000 men march out for battle, with colors flying, bands playing national airs, troops cheering until their throats seemed cracked. We marched to Fairfax that day and encamped just back of the town.  Here we heard that Manassas was evacuated.  

The third day that we were encamped here, we had the honor of acting as bodyguard to Gen. Franklin and staff, to visit Manassas Junction.  The enemy had Centerville well-fortified and everything looked drear and desolate. We reached Manasses about 1 o'clock in the afternoon and such a place.  Everything had been blown up or burned to the ground. There were a few Union men there and they were helping themselves to the stores left by the enemy.  It seemed as if they left in a hurry, for the ground was covered with everything.  One man was drawing away a load of flour, he said that the Rebels had robbed him of everything he had and drove him off his place, and he thought that he was entitled to the flour.  He asked us if we had got the Stars and Stripes with us, but we had nothing but our guide colors. But at that moment, an infantry Regiment came around the bend with their colors flying and band playing.  At the sight, the old man seemed crazy.  He took off his hat and shouted and danced for joy, that he have once more been permitted to look on the Stars and Stripes, the flag of his country.  He said if we would pay him a visit, he would give us all we wanted to eat and drink if it took the last animal he owned.  I can tell you, I felt proud at that moment that I was a soldier. We returned to Fairfax well tired out with our ride.

We remained there until last night, when we received orders to march back to camp.  It is understood that we are going to join Gen. Burnside in North Carolina. We are expected order to march every moment.

Our Regiment, or at least a part of them, has made one of the greatest charges that has been made in Virginia during the war.  Two companies were with Gen. Kearney, at the taking of Fairfax, and fourteen men under the command of Lieut. Hidden was ordered to charge the enemies pickets, which they did, bringing back fourteen prisoners and the body of Lieut. Hidden, who was killed in the charge.  Each man had a prisoner. The enemy were about three hundred strong. Gen. Kearney stood on a hill and witnessed the charge.  He says it was the bravest charge he ever saw made, considering the numbers. The Corporal who took command after the Lieutenant was killed is now appointed Lieutenant.  He was the only non-commissioned officer with the boys.

I learn that we are to march this afternoon and in all probability, you will not hear from me again in some time.

Yours in haste, Homer Broadwell

______________________________

Adjutant Report, 1st NY Cavalry:  BROADWELL, HOMER:  Age, 21 years.  Enlisted July 16, 1861, at New York; mustered in as corporal, Company D, July 16, 1861, to serve three years; re-enlisted (as private) January 1, 1864; mustered out with company June 27, 1865, at Alexandria, Va., as Homer Bradwell.

The Brooklyn Citizen, Brooklyn, NY, January 20, 1895:  BROADWELL: Suddenly, on Thursday, Jan. 17, Homer Broadwell.  Funeral from his late residence, 1845 DeKalb Ave Sunday afternoon, 2:30 o'clock.  Perry Post, G.A.R. is respectfully invited to attend.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, Jan. 31, 1895:  Mr. Homer Broadwell, who died in Brooklyn Jan. 17th, aged 54 years, was formerly a valued employee of The Herald, office.  He was also a veteran of the rebellion.  Mr. Broadwell had resided for several years in Brooklyn.

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

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, November 3, 1847

Marriage

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

Death

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

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

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, November 10, 1847

Marriages

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

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

Deaths

In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on Friday evening last, Mrs. Ann R. Clark aged 48 yrs.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, November 17, 1847

Death

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

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, November 24, 1847

Death

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

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, January 24, 1880

Death

TINKER:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY] ont he 14th inst., Miss Emily Tinker, aged 79 years.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, Jan. 24, 1880:  East Hill, Miss Emily Tinker, a beloved Christian lady, who has long lived in this community was buried Saturday.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, January 24, 1880

Birth

Charles Harris rejoices - It's a boy.

Deaths

Mr. Orlando Davis, a former resident of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] died at the residence of his son, O.D. Davis, in Milo, Yates Co. [NY], Jan. 11, 1880 at the age of 85 years and 10 months.  The deceased was a brother of the late George Davis and was formerly well-known in this community.

Vital Records, Madison County, NY (1867)

 Oneida Dispatch, Oneida, NY, April  27, 1867

Marriages

BROWN - CAMPBELL:  At the house of the bride's father in Canastota [Madison Co. NY], March 20, 1867, by the Rev. Mr. Barnes, Mr. D.H. Brown of Bridgeport [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Blinnie Campbell.

SAWDEY - PERKINS:  In Cleveland [Oswego Co. NY] on the 26th ult. by Rev. Mr. Cooley, B.W. Sawdey Esq of Titusville, Pa., to Miss Florence H. Perkins  of Madison, N.Y. [Madison Co.].

FISH - THOMPSON:  In Morrisville [Madison Co. NY] on the 21st inst. by Rev. Samuel Miller, Mr. M.C. Fish of Scriba, Oswego Co. [NY] to Mrs. M.N. Thompson of Morrisville.

GOFF - CLARK:  In Utica [Oneida Co. NY] on the 3d inst. by Rev. O.H. Warren, Mr. James Goff to Miss Mary Clark of Augusta [Oneida Co. NY].

KENYON - ST. JOHN:  In East Homer, N.Y. [Cortland Co. NY] on the 19th ult. by Rev. S.  Hinman, Mr. George A. Kenyon of Brookfield [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Frances A. St. John of Homer.

Deaths

OSTRANDER:  In Smithfield [Madison Co. NY] on the 13th inst. Mr. Alexander Ostrander aged 84 years.

BURGESS:  In New Woodstock [Madison Co. NY] April 11, 1867, Mrs. Burgess wife of Celim Burgess, aged 62 years. [Margaret Maris (Cady) Burgess]

WELLINGTON: In New Woodstock [Madison Co. NY] April 20, 1867, Mrs. Ann J. Barker [Wellingtoin], wife of Erastus Wellington, aged 49 years.

MOSELEY:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] on the 9th inst. suddenly of apoplexy, Miss Betsey Moseley aged 67 years.

NEWCOMB:  In Munnsville [Madison Co. NY], on the 17th inst. after three days illness with inflammation of the bowels, Delos [Newcomb] son of Marcus P. Newcomb, aged about 14 yrs.

LEONARD: In South Brookfield [Madison Co. NY] on the 10th inst. Mr. Rufus Leonard late resident of Clarkville, aged 7 yrs.

SEATON:  At Pine Woods [Madison Co. NY], on the 22d inst. Lenna [Seaton] only child of George Seaton, formerly of Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] aged about 2 years.

Peterboro, Madison Co. NY:  The funeral of Miss Julia Abbott [d. 21 Apr. 1867, age 41y] was attended at this place on Tuesday and that of a little daughter of Mrs. Willoughby [Gerty Willoughby, d. 20 Apr. 1867, aged 7y] at the residence of the child's grandfather, Neal Eastman, Esq. on Monday.  The child died with measles, Miss Abbott with consumption.

A strange affair occurred one night last week near Knoxville [Madison Co. NY], which resulted in the death of Mr. Butler, a resident of that place.  He spent the evening at the hotel of Mr. Hinman in Stockbridge [Madison Co. NY].  During the evening, he drank quite freely and started for his home about 10 o'clock.  As he did not reach home as was expected, search was instituted and about 5 o'clock in the morning he was found dead, suspended by the neck from a high picket fence.  His coat, especially on the back part, was covered with mud, while the hands and face were free from it.  there were a large number of foot tracks on the side of the fence where the remains were found.  It was thought by some that he had committed suicide.  And at the inquest held by coroner Douglass, of Peterboro, the following verdict was rendered:  "That the deceased came to his death by strangulation while under the influence of intoxicating drinks."  There are many mysterious circumstances connected with the case and the friends of Mr. Butler have serious suspicions that he was murdered.  On leaving home, he took with him ten dollars, but no money whatever was found upon him. We understand the body will be taken up and a careful examination made with a view to ascertain whether there was foul play or not in the case.  Mr. Butler leaves an interesting and sadly afflicted family. [Charles Butler, d. 17 Apr. 1867, aged 55y]

News Item

It is stated by the present occupant that the farm, known as the Muller farm, situated three miles west of the village of Georgetown [Madison Co. NY] on the hill road to DeRuyter has been sold by the owner, Mr. James O. Van Houghvenburg of Kingston, Ulster Co. to parties near New York for $25 per acre. There are 735 acres assessed in this farm.  There are some facts which go to make the history of this place quite interesting.

In the year 1810, an individual known at that time by name as Lewis Anathe Muller, and as a French refugee, settled on this tract, then a wilderness more desolate than now and attempted the establishment of a village.  He erected a spacious dwelling, strong and solid walls being constructed of hewn timber, every bent being raised closely against another, making a wall of solid timber twelve or fourteen inches thick.  This fortress like frame was well covered with boards without and most carefully finished within, after a style best fancied by the strange builder.  The walls present a nice finish, and time has proved their durability.  The building is of the European style of architecture of that time, being not far from eighty feet long and of proportionate width, divided into rooms and halls.  Originally there were seven fireplaces.  It is said that in the cellar an apartment, undiscoverable by a stranger, whose secret purposes were never told, was provided.  Large commodious out buildings were erected, two large store houses, numerous fruit trees planted and an artificial pond raised, the dam of which years ago was leveled by subsequent occupants, none of whom to my knowledge have owned it or any part of it.  

Muller brought here with him about one hundred and fifty hands, as stated by some of our oldest men, who knew him and assisted him in his enterprise and $150,000.  Many supposed him to be Louis Phillippe himself, King of France, and that he sought this secluded hill and constructed this house in its peculiar manner as a means of defense in case of danger.  At any rate there was not and is not today any doubt that he was one of the nobility of France, for when Bonaparte abdicated he returned to France leaving his family (wife and children) in New York.  Evidently no pains were spared to make this lonely place pleasant and render the lands, naturally sterile, fruitful, agreeable to the apparently cultivated taste of the exiled Frenchman.  Consequently, forests were leveled and hundreds of acres cleared with particular care.  Money was lavished and labor without stint applied to beautify this wild secluded hill.  

On going to France, he left his property in care of some of his servants who accompanied him here. But after a few years he returned to New York, thence to Georgetown to find his adopted home nearly deserted, everything in a dilapidated state; his valuable and costly furniture carried away or broken and of all the property which he brought, amounting to $150,000, or more, it is related that he did not recover over $150.  He returned to New York, disposed of his lands and immovable estate at a ruinous bargain and sailed for France.  None in this vicinity know to this day who he was, or what was his real character.

The farm has ever since been owned by parties living in New York, or in eastern counties, and has been worked, when worked at all, by tenants who wanted to live bad enough to do it, always at a "poor lay," even if all their own way.  An air of romance has ever since clung around that stern but stately mansion with its lofty poplars and spacious green in front, and until recently reports were rife and frequently believed, that this house was haunted and its occupants have been frightened pale and some have been known to leave, actually believing in the mysterious tales of haunted houses and that this was one.

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

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, December 31, 1879

Marriages

STANTON - JACOBS:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Dec.3d by Rev. R.T. Jacobs, Mr. T.G. Stanton and Miss Alice Jacobs both of Oxford.

HOLLENBECK - MACK:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 24, by Rev. William R. Baldwin, Mr. Luke Hollenbeck of Greene [Chenango Co. NY] and Mrs. Emily C. mack of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY].

BURCHARD - BRUCHHAUSEN:  At the residence of the bride's father, Dr. C. Bruchhausen, in Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 23d, by Rev. L.M.S. Haynes, D.D., Mr. Fred H. Burchard of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Ella Bruchhausen.

A very pleasant event took place at the residence of Dr. Bruchhausen on Tuesday evening, the occasion being the marriage of Miss Mary Ellen Bruchhausen to Frederick H. Burchard of Oxford.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. Dr. Haynes of the Baptist church in the presence of a number of invited guests. At the conclusion of the ceremony the happy couple left for Oxford, where a home was all prepared for the reception for the bride and where they will at once establish housekeeping.  Telegraph

BECKWITH - MORSE:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 10th, by Rev. A.W. Barrows, Mr. Fred D. Beckwith and Miss Ella A. Morse.

McDonough, Chenango Co. NY:  Frank Norris and Miss Oresta Lewis broke the monotonous chair of celibacy on Christmas.

Deaths

DIMOCK:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 18th, Ursula V. [Dimock] wife of Brown Dimock, aged 72 years.

DAY:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 20th, Hannah [Day] wife of Mr. Alexander Day, aged 70 years.

ENGLISH:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 18th, May Belle [English][ daughter of John English, aged 8 years.

ECCLESTON:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY\] Dec. 24th, Margaret [Eccleston] wife of Ansel Eccleston, aged 44 years.

_______________________

McNEIL:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 23d, Luman McNeil, Esq. aged 88 years.

Luman McNeil died at his late residence about two miles below Oxford on Tuesday of last week.  Mr. McNeil was born at Hillsdale, Columbia Co. N.Y. on the 31st day of January 1792.  His father, John McNeil, removed from Hillsdale to Oxford in February 1793, the child Luman being then little more than one year old, and first settled near Warn's pond. a few years thereafter John McNeil removed to the farm next below the Lobdell farm, where he died many years ago.\

Mr. McNeil was a blacksmith by trade, which he learned from his father.  He married in the year 1810, Fitche Church, with whom he lived until about three years since, when Mrs. McNeil died, their married life extending over a period of more than sixty-five years.

In 1815 he went with his family to Coventry East Corners, now known as Coventryville [Chenango Co. NY], and there worked at his trade until 1815, when he returned to Oxford and took up his residence in the village.  Here he remained for a period of nearly thirty years, until about 1843, when he retired to the farm where his long life was peacefully and quietly closed.

Not seeking any preferment, he was nevertheless occasionally the recipient of the confidence of the people to being designated by them from time to time for town offices and was in 1849, appointed to the office of Postmaster in this village and held the same until superseded by change of Administration in 1853.

The early life of Mr. McNeil was passed at a time when, but a lodging place had been made in our village and all around it was dense forests in which roamed wild beasts from which at night their roar and angry cries could be heard.  Culture and early education were not in those days open to children and young men in his circumstances.  The rough and tumble of the wilderness and of the sparsely populated and newly settled country, with but few inhabitants possessing little means, were all the advantages open to him.  Of an ardent temperament, strong natural powers and determined will, he was well calculated for an early pioneer.  Opinions once formed, he adhered to them with great tenacity. A Whig during the days of the party by that name, he started as a Republican with the life of that great party, as its warm, earnest and uncompromising supporter, and if we mistake not, never failed to vote for its nominees at any election, his last ballot being given last month, a privilege he could not forego, notwithstanding the infirmities of his advanced age and the effects of a then recent accident.  In all the relations of life he was guided by correct principles and in all his actions aimed to do right.  His long life was uneventful in any public point of view, but he always secured and retrained the respect and esteem of his fellow men, and died with the conviction in the mind of everyone, that a good citizen and honest man had closed his career.

Mr. McNeil was the last survivor of the earliest settlers, and residents of the town and village.  All the others in their time have, one by one, gone the way of all the living, until a representative of the last century and of the struggles, privations and sufferings of the early settlers, he alone remained.  His time also came to depart in the ordering of Providence and in view of his new made grave, those left behind may profitably inquire are we doing our work as well as those fathers have performed theirs?  Are we discharging our duty in the sphere of life in which we are assigned, as thoroughly as did those who braved the forest, the wild beast and privation in fulfilling the duties which circumstances forced upon them?  Nothing is hazarded in saying, it is no exaggeration to say that the living, the present generation may profitably study and well follow the example of many of those early pioneers, in their industry, their sincerity, their simplicity, their integrity and their devotion to duty.

__________________________

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

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

George Balcom, the youngest of nine children, was born at Oxford, in February 1823, and lived in this county most of the time until within the past fifteen years.  Neither of these brothers evinced in early life any desire to enter the ministry, but both of them, entered upon the work soon after conversion.  Benjamin was not a settled pastor, but widely and favorably known, was often called to attend funerals, or officiate at weddings and kindred occasions among his townsmen and carried the same earnestness and will to do good to the service of his Master. George took a wider field and traversed a great portion of the North and West in his mission as an evangelist.

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

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

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

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 3, 1880

Marriages

In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] May 26th, by Rev. R.M. Duff, Mr. Frank Willcox and Miss Ella C. Balcom.

In Evanstown, Ill. May 19th, by Rev. J.M. Hatfield, Mr. John H. Hamline and Miss Josephine J. Mead, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] May 26th, Mrs. Sarah M. [Tracy] widow of the late Capt. Tracy, aged 75 years.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] May 30th, Mr. Samuel Williams aged 80 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] May 24th, John [Fleming] son of John and Margaret Fleming, aged 2 years and 11 months.

In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] May 18th, of diphtheria, Balcom A. [Bradley] only child of Henry A. and Emily L. Bradley, aged 8 years and 7 months.

In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] at the residence of her grandson, Mr. Hamilton Ingersoll, May 12th, Mrs. Hannah Ingersoll aged 84 years.

In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] May 18th, Ellen [Kinyon] wife of Deloss Kinyon, aged 45 years.

Vital Records, Broome County, NY (1838, 1874)

 Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, September 13, 1838

Deaths

Died at Charleston, S.C. on the 29th ult. of yellow fever, Gustavus A. Mills, son of Major P. Mills of this village [Binghamton, Broome Co., NY] aged 23 years.

C. Mersereau, Esq. Coroner, held an inquest on Saturday last on the body of Mrs. Eliza Cagwin of the town of Conklin [Broome Co. NY], who died suddenly on Friday.  A postmortem examination was held, Doctors Brooks, West and Hand present, when a verdict was rendered by the jury substantially as follows:  that the said Eliza Cagwin came to her death in consequence of taking a large dose of the oil of Cedar, administered by some person or persons unknown, for the purpose of producing an abortion.  On Monday, suspicion falling upon a man by the name of George Tompkins, he was arrested and examined before justices Isbell and Finch.  the testimony was so conclusive against him, that he was held to bail in the sum of $1,000, failing to procure which he was committed for trial.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, September 20, 1838

Death

Died in the town of Vestal [Broome Co. NY] on Thursday, the 13th instant, Mr. John Rush, a Soldier of the Revolution, aged 80 years.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, September 27, 1838

Deaths

Died in this town [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] on Thursday last, Mrs. Irena Gould aged about 74 years.

At the residence of his son in this town [Binghamton, Broome Co., NY] on Thursday last, Mr. Joseph Handy a Soldier of the Revolution, aged 80 years.  Mr. Handy was engaged in some of the most prominent battles of the Revolution.  He stood by the side of Washington at the battle of Brandywine in which battle he first shed his blood.  He was also in the battles of Monmouth and Yorktown.  He continued to serve his country until peace was ratified.  His last wish and prayer was that his hard service from year to year, in watching and opposing a well-disciplined and powerful army; in marching and countermarching through the wild forests and bleaching storms of an American climate, might build up a Republic that should continue a flourishing and a happy land.

Union News, Union, NY, December 5, 1874

Marriages

In Hartford, Conn. Nov. 19th, 1874, by the Rev. H.D. North, Chester Cafferty of Union [Broome Co. NY] to Miss Sarah S. Pitkin of the former place.

At the residence of the bride's father in this village [Union, Broome Co. NY] on Wednesday evening, Dec. 2nd by Rev. Dowing, Mr. John Glazier of Hornellsville [Steuben Co. NY] to Miss Nellie E. DeHart of Union.

Deaths

On Monday last [23 Nov. 1874] a little girl [Alice Chaffee], daughter of Calvin Chaffe, was burned to death at her home in Richford in this county [Tioga Co. NY].  The father and mother were both absent, leaving the little girl, eight years old, to take care of the house and a baby about five months old.  The fire not burning very well, she tried to start it up by pouring on kerosene oil from a can. The oil caught fire, exploding the can and throwing the contents all over her.  The neighbors heard her cries, but before they could reach her, she was literally roasted alive.  The baby was burnt severely about the head and face, but will probably live.  Owego Times, November 26.

The oldest man in North America, George LeBarre of Middle Smithfield, near Stroudsburg, Monroe County, Pa., died at his residence last Saturday night, at the extreme age of 112 years.  He was born in Pennsylvania, under colonial rule, has shaken hands with General Washington, seen the gallant Lafayette and the patriotic General Sullivan and was deemed a Tory in Revolutionary days.  He was too old for service in 1812, but he was still a hale old man till within the past two weeks.  Having during the last summer spent some weeks at the Delaware Water Gap, he subsequently visited the State fair at Easton in October. During the last fortnight, he has been so ill as to call in a physician. On Saturday he was able to walk out and was considered improving in health.  In the evening, he rapidly sank and expired without a struggle, sinking apparently into a sleep from which there was no waking this side of the grave. 

Union News, Union, NY, December 19, 1874

Death

In -?- Dec. 17th(?), 1874, Laura F. [Mason] wife of Thomas A. Mason, aged 20 years.

Union News, Union, NY, December 26, 1874

Marriage

At the Ahwancta House in this village [Union, Broome Co. NY], Dec. 21st, 1874, by Rev. C.S. Dewinz, Mr. Fred Dean of Apalachin [Tioga Co. NY] and Miss Ophelia Baird of this place.

Death

Simmon Cortright of Candor, N.Y. [Tioga Co.] was drowned last Monday night.  He had been hunting and as he was crossing the mill pond to go home, the ice broke and let him in.