Obituaries (February 3)

Jessie Rider Owen

Morning Sun, Norwich, NY, February 18, 1896

Born March 29, 1858, Died February 17, 1896

Jessie Rider Owen died at her home in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Monday morning, Feb. 17, 1896, shortly after 1 o'clock.

"Let the lifeless body rest;

She is gone, who was its guest--

Gone, as travelers haste to leave

 An Inn, nor tarry until eve.

In what gardens of delight

Rest her weary feet tonight."

Three weeks ago, she was hurriedly summoned home from Des Moines, Iowa, where she had gone to visit her sister, Mrs. E.R. Mason, to the bedside of her dearly loved father, Hon. George Rider, who was dying of pneumonia.  But before his death, her husband, Holdridge T. Owen, was prostrated with the same disease and lies now at the point of death. She attended her father's funeral and then in turn she was stricken.  The pathos of this sequence of sorrows appealed to the heart of everyone, and for many days this entire community has watched, as it were, by her bedside and with bated breath, awaited the outcome.  Hope was not crushed till the end came; then it yielded to the inevitable.

Jessie Rider was born in Norwich, March 29, 1958.  She was the eldest daughter of the late Hon. George Rider and Elizabeth Rider.  She grew to womanhood here in Norwich, and was highly esteemed and prominent in social circles.  In October, 1884, she was united in marriage to Holdridge T. Owen, who survives her.  Her mother and only sister, Mrs. Kiefer Rider Mason, also survive.  She early manifested those marked attributes which characterized her as an exceptional woman.  Firm to do what she considered as right, honest as to her convictions, open and frank in her every day intercourse with others, possessed of great tact, generous in thought and indeed, loving and loyal to parents and friends, democratic in feeling and meeting the highest and the lowest on the universal plane of our common humanity; impelled, comforted and sustained by a deep, abiding and childlike faith in her Savior--she impressed all as a strong individuality, which once known commanded respect, and much known, fostered well deserved love.  

She early became a communicant of Emmanuel church.  for many years she was a teacher in its Sunday school, and was deeply interested in the social and religious work of the church.  When some years ago, the parish undertook the work of building the new church edifice it now occupies, she willingly and eagerly pushed on the enterprise and contributed by untiring labor to its accomplishment.  The people of that church know what she became, what she accomplished, what labor she put forth, what a stimulus her efforts were to others, and how great was the reward which came to her in the final success.  Her kind deed among the sick and the poor were done so quietly and unostentatiously that few, except the recipients, knew of them.  Yet she was found in many a home of poverty, blessing it by her presence and by substantial gifts for the alleviation of its distress and needs.  Into the room of the sick and despondent, she came as a sunbeam of light to cheer and uplift; she bore then delicacies to tempt their lagging appetites, she sat by their side and read to them by hours, or lent a sympathetic ear to their tales of sorrow. She bore their griefs and left them comforted.

In her home she was the loving daughter, tender wife and care taker.  Father, mother, sister, husband--they were thought of; the last one to be considered, was herself.  The community sorrows over the early close of such a beneficent and beautiful life.  But though Jessie Rider Owen has gone from us the memory of her will be sweet and fragrant in the recollection of all who knew her.  

"Weep not that her toils are over; weep not that her race is run;

God grant we may rest as calmly, when our work like her's is done;

Till then we would yield with gladness our treasure to Him to keep,

And rejoice in the awe and assurance--He giveth his loved ones sleep."

Bainbridge Republican, February 26, 1896

Last Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the home of her mother, Mrs. George Rider, on South Broad street, Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], occurred the funeral of Mrs. Jessie Rider Owen. The services were conducted by Rev. Henry D. Stebbins, rector of Emmanuel Episcopal church.  Only a few intimate friends and relatives were present. The interment was at Mount Hope [Norwich, NY].  The following acted as bearers:  W.H. Brower, W.H. Sullivan, W.B. Andrews, Geroge N. Barnes, Edward L. Nash of Norwich, James messenger, of Middletown, and William Allen, of Frankfort. The casket was of pure white and was nearly hidden from view by the floral offerings, contributed by sorrowing friends. The flowers consisted of lilies of the valley, roses, Easter lilies and orchids. The grave also was filled with blossoms of every description.

Holdridge T. Owen

Bainbridge Republican, February 26, 1896

Holdridge T. Owen died at the residence of his mother-in-law, Mrs. George Rider on South Broad street in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] at 1:45 o'clock Tuesday afternoon.  Four weeks ago he was stricken with pneumonia and that developed into blood poisoning which caused his death.  Four weeks ago, Mr. Owen's father-in-law, George Rider died of the same disease and but scarcely a week since Jessie Rider Owen, the wife of the deceased died.

Morning Sun, Norwich, NY, February 26, 1896

Born Oct. 17, 1857 - Died Feb. 25, 1896

About two o'clock, Tuesday afternoon, February 26, 1896, Holdridge T. Owen died at the residence of his father-in-law, the late Hon. George Rider, in the thirty-eighth year of his age.  His demise was the culmination of a series of distressing events, which have visited that afflicted family and saddened our community.  His father-in-law, Hon. George Rider, died January 28.  Before the latter's death, Mr. Owen was prostrated by disease.  Later his wife, Mrs. Jessie Rider Owen, was seized and died February 17.  At the time of her death, the shadow of the grave was upon him and it was decided not best to tell him of his great loss.  Now, after eight days have passed away, they are reunited in the great heaven.  Twas one after the other, father daughter and son have layed down the burden of their mortality and sleep side by side the sleep that knows no wakening.  "Because man goeth to his long home and the mourners go about the street."

We pause for the moment, for it is not often that such a sad day comes to the recorder of passing events as comes to us today.  It is rare indeed that death in four short weeks annihilates one household and deprives another of father, daughter and son and removes them from the activities of life to the the unbroken quiet of the grave.  It impresses one and all with the uncertainty of this frail and transitory life. 

Our years are like the shadows

On sunny hills that lie,
Or grasses in the meadows
That blossom but to die;
A sleep, a dream, a story
By strangers quickly told,
And unremaining glory
Of things that soon are old.

Holdridge Owen was born in Auburn, N.Y. [Cayuga Co.] October 7, 1857.  His education was acquired in that place and like many another young man he devoted himself to teaching school.  Becoming tired of that occupation,. he cast about for other business.  In 1878, being in Norwich upon a visit, he was introduced to Superintendent C.W. Lampher and was given a position in the offices of the old Midland railroad. So intelligently did he undertake his new work and so faithfully did he perform the duties entrusted to him, that promotion speedily followed.  He soon became confidential clerk of the superintendent and then chief clerk of the division.  This latter place he held until he retired from the services of the Ontario and Western, into which the old Midland had been reorganized.  Since leaving the railroad about six years ago, he has been engaged in the management of the extensive acid works of the Culosia Chemical Company of Hancock, Delaware County.  At the time of his death he was secretary and treasurer of this company, also secretary and treasurer of the Delaware Land Company and several other similar enterprises in which his father-in-law, Mr. Rider, was a leading spirit and stockholder.

Of his aptness, good judgment and skill in his railroad work, Superintendent Lampher speaks in the highest terms and pays him this distinguished compliment.  "I have been," said Mr. Lampher, "in railroad service over thirty-five years, have hired more or less responsible persons and have had from one to thirteen hundred men under managing from common laborers to corps of clerks, engineers and office men, and have a great deal to do with railroad men, but I must say I never saw a man or had a man in my employ in whom I had possessed greater confidence than Holdridge T. Owen.  I never had one who made less errors. I may say he is the only man I ever had under me, to whom I referred for advice.  Owen understood men and was always fair minded towards them.  He never allowed any personal feelings, even with men who had injured him or did him a wrong, to bias his judgement.  His advice could ever be relied upon in an emergency."

In politics, he allied himself with the Democratic party.  He came on the scene of political action at the time when the Democratic party needed young and fresh blood.  He soon made his influence as a worker felt.  In 1887 he was nominated for and elected supervisor of Norwich.  So well did he perform the duties of the place, that he was successively re-elected in '88 and '89.  In the fall of 1890 he ran for county treasurer on the Democratic ticket, and though unsuccessful, cut down the majority of his Republican opponent more than half.  At the time of his death, he was chairman of the Democratic county committee.

In October, 1884, he was married to Jennie Rider, whose untimely death is mentioned above.  He did not know that she had preceded him to a better land.  Let us trust that there has been a joyful reunion "beyond the smiling and weepings."  What Holdridge T. Owen was, the citizens of Norwich and Hancock and the employees of the Ontario & Western railway, with whom he was so long associated, know. We recall his Democratic spirit, his genial and happy disposition, his ever pleasant greeting to acquaintance and friend, his  honesty and loyalty to principle, his trustworthiness, tact and unbiased judgment in his work, and his faculty, only too rare in the hurry of this scheming age, of making and retaining friends.  What more can we add to this eulogy on his character to that which has already been said by his trusted friend, Mr. Lampher, who knew him so long and intimately?  He has died, a young man.  He was on the threshold of larger opportunities.  But the immortelles of his unstained character will mark the place where he sleeps and will keep green his name in memory. The funeral will be held at 2 o'clock Friday afternoon.  Knight Templar service.  Burial in Mt. Hope [Norwich, NY] 

Holdridget T. Owen

Democratic Party Memorial

Morning Sun, Norwich, NY, June 15, 1896

Holdridge T. Owen born October 17, 1857, died February 25, 1896

The absence of the late Holdridge T. Owen from this, the first Democratic county convention held since his death, again renews our grief and more clearly shows to us the irreparable loss we have suffered in his untimely end.  Now, more than ever, do we feel the need of the guiding hand the wise counsel upon which we had long learned to lean and to rely.

Mr. Owen's prominence as a Democratic leader makes it peculiarly appropriate that this convention should voice its sorrow for his sad death and solemnly spread upon its records a tribute of the admiration and respect he had won from the Chenango County Democracy.

He was a man of courage and resources, of foresight and prudence, a skillful politician in the best sense of the term.  Honest, high minded, generous, and undeviating, a pleasant smile and a cordial greeting awaited everyone who approached him.  Our association with him as chairman of the Democratic County committee, brief though it was, soon ripened into a strong and enduring friendship.  His nature was very kind.  His heart went out toward others, and largely without regard to their station in life.  He had as kindly and true an interest in the common people as in the more favored, and the people of Chenango County feel that they have sustained a severe bereavement when he was taken away.  It seems sad indeed that his loving family should be so sorely tried in the crucible of affliction.

He was pre-eminently a brave fighter; when he had once determined that a particular course of  conduct was for the best interests of the party, he battled courageously for that principle regardless of opposition without or within the party ranks. And for this courage, all men admired him, whether or not they believed in his policy.

Today, all bitterness, all difference are forgotten, we only feel, we now more clearly see that Holdridge T. Owen was a true and loyal Democrat devoted to the interests of his party and striving solely for its success.

Today, we say a kindly word and sad farewell to our absent comrade. We who knew him, respected his worth.  We admired his manly and noble character, we appreciated and cherished his warm and generous friendship.  Our farewell does not imply forgetfulness, for our brother will always live in our memory and affection.

Obituaries (February 2)

George Rider

Chenango Union, January 30, 1896

George Rider:  Born, March 31, '25, Died, January 28, '96

Hon. George Rider died at his home on South Broad street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], about nine o'clock Tuesday morning, after an illness which lasted little more than a week.  He took to his bed on Monday of last week, with a severe cold, which culminated in pneumonia and was aggravated by a heart trouble. The best medical expertise in the State were called in consultation, but Mr. Rider's age was against his recovery and, in spite of the best care, death ended his suffering  He was conscious to the last, except when under the influence of opiates, and recognized his wife and daughters who were at his bedside at the end.

Mr. Rider was born at Coventry, this county [Chenango], on march 31, 1825, and was the only son of George L. and Eliza Rider.  His parents afterward removed to Norwich and Mr. Rider was married here on August 28, 1855, to Elizabeth Ann, daughter of the late William Waite. The family home in this village was on the lot now occupied by the handsome residence in which Mr. Rider lived and died.  For about a year and a half after his marriage Mr. Rider lived with his father.  He then purchased the house now occupied by Holdridge T. Owen, and lived there until several years after the death of his father, when he moved the old house and erected the present residence, about 1877.  His most prominent business connections in Norwich were with the firm of Hayes & Rider, in the piano business.  He was a member of the firm of Hayes, Latin & Co., which was succeeded by the firm of Hayes & Rider.  They operated a manufactory in the brick building on East Main street, known as the Piano Block, and also in the property now occupied by the Pharmacal Company.  Later the firm of Hayes & Rider purchased the Norwich gas plant and operated it until Mr. Rider, as surviving partner, sold the business to the Norwich Light and Power Company. Aside from Mr. Hayes, Mr. Rider's most intimate personal and business friend in those days was Mr. Andrew J Avery, formerly of Norwich, and now of Dunkirk, N.Y.  Since the death of Mr. Hayes, in 1889, and the consequent termination of the business of the firm, Mr. Rider's business interests have been largely away from Norwich.  He was largely interested in the natural gas and oil districts at Bradford, Pa., and was a large stockholder in the corporation which laid the pipes conducting natural gas from the Indiana gas fields to Chicago.  He was also largely interested in the chemical and acid business in Sullivan and Delaware counties, of this State.  Upon the death of Walter M. Conkey, who was for many years the president of the old Bank of Chenango, Mr. Rider was elected president and continued as such until the voluntary distribution of the assets of the bank among its stockholders, in 1878.  Later he became a stockholder and director of the National Bank of Norwich, and was a member of the Board of Directors at the time of his death.

He was always more or less active in politics and while he was never an office seeker he frequently allowed his name to go onto the ticket in order to strengthen it.  He was an enthusiastic Democrat and was always ready to give his influence and his money for the support of Democratic principles.  He was prominent in Masonic circles, and did much for the up-building of the order in this vicinity.  He was the first Master Mason made by Norwich Lodge, no. 302, F.&A., on April 20, 1853, and always retained his membership in the Lodge.  He was exalted a Royal Arch Mason in Harmony Chapter No. 15, January 5, 1865.  On September 24, 1869, he was created a Knight Templar in Norwich Commandery, K.T., No. 46, and on April 17, 1874, was elected Eminent Commander.  In 1888 he was elected Treasurer of the Commandery, and was re-elected each year, holding the office at the time of his death.  He was elected an honorary member of Apollo Commandery, no. 15, Troy, N.Y., on January 12, 1873.  He was also a member of Central City Consistory, S.P.K.S. of Syracuse, being a thirty-second grade Mason of the Regular Scottish Rites.  He was also a member of Zira Shrine, of Utica, and of an organization known as the Veiled Prophets, a side issue to Masonry, organized at Hamilton.  He had been until recently an active Odd Fellow, and also belonged to the order of Elks.  Mr. Rider was for many years a member of the fire department and was an enthusiastic fireman. Even after he was not an active ember, he took a deep interest in the welfare of the department and was its generous patron.  His father, George L. Rider, purchased the first hand engine used here.  Mr. Rider was an honorary member of the George Rider Hook & Ladder Company, which was named after him.

There was no hypocrisy about George Rider.  He had his own ideas on every subject, and was nothing loth to make them known, but while maintaining his own opinion he was always ready to acknowledge the right of others to hold a different opinion.  He was of a kindly disposition, very sociable and hospitable, and very liberal in dispersing his hospitality.  Charity seemed an inborn trait, and it found expression in every direction.  Many a deserving family are indebted to the kindly aid of Mr. Rider and his wife, and the extent of their charity was never known from themselves.  It was done quietly and without parade, in an unconscious and unassuming manner, without ostentation, and with no desire for notoriety or reward. There was a righteous justice in his charity, however, and he did not consider it charitable to give to undeserving causes.

Mr. Rider was for many years a vestryman of the Episcopal church and a very liberal contributor to its support.  In the early struggles of the church for existence he stood nobly by it and on one occasion contributed a large sum which freed it entirely from debt.  Of late years his most intimate business and personal friend has been Mr. T.D. Miller, and for the last 30 years the families have annually exchanged Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.    Mr. Rider leaves a widow and two daughters, Jessie, wife of Holdridge T. Owen, and Frances Kiefer, wife of Edward R. Mason of DesMoines, Iowa.  He was a kind husband, in indulgent father and a valuable citizen. The entire village sympathizes with the family in their bereavement and realized its own great loss in his death.  The funeral will be held at 2 o'clock, Friday afternoon.  The Episcopal service will be read at the house, after which the services will be in the hands of Norwich Commandery.  Norwich lodge will act as escort to the Commandery, and the Hook & Ladder company will also do escort duty.  

Memorial from Democratic Party of Chenango County

Morning Sun, June 15, 1896

Hon. George Rider, born March 31, 1825, died, January 28, 1896

In the death of Hon. George Rider, the Democratic party of Chenango County loses one of its most steadfast friends, one who was always earnest and sincere in the advocacy of Democratic principles, and undeviating in his devotion to Democratic interests.  For many years prominent in the counsels of his party in this county, he never sought place or preferment for himself.  But his time, influence and wealth were ever enlisted in behalf of the cause which he espoused, and have been ever liberally bestowed.  Loyalty to political and social friends was his chief characteristic, and his sympathy and aid were never withheld from worthy subjects.  He lived not for himself alone, but always with a thought for the pleasure, comfort and welfare of those about him.

Such is a simple statement of his life and character as it is impressed upon his associates.  He was the highest and best type of the American gentleman; brave, generous, open, direct and unsuspicious, abhorring hypocrisy, despising fraud, false pretense and double dealing of every character, full of charity for the faults and mistakes of others, thoughtful and considerate of the feelings of all with whom he came in conduct, devoted to his country, his party and his friends, he lived and died a true Democrat, and a true man.

Epitaphs

Some Queer Epitaphs

Chenango Union, February 19, 1891

As the Union and Telegraph have given us some curious epitaphs, of late, I thought it would not be out of place to furnish some others.

 

In the Episcopalian burial ground in my native country, I read what three sons had inscribed on the tombstone of their father: 

"The faults you have seen in us,

take care to shun,

Look well at home:

enough there's to be done."

 

Another:  A man about seventy-five years of age, who died before I left England, requested that a tombstone be erected at the head of his grave, and that the following curious epitaph be inscribed upon it:

 

"Who lie here?  Who do you think?

Poor old Sam, who liked a little drink.

Remember him when you pass by,

Because, when he was alive he was always dry.

Where he is now, and how he fares,

Nobody knows: nobody cares."

 

The following is copied from the works of Thomas Watson, M.D., the great physician of London, Eng., President of Middlesex Hospital.  A lady who died of ovarian dropsy ordered that, for information of posterity, the following lines be inscribed on her monument:

 

"Here lies Dame Mary Page,

Relict of Sir Gregory Page, Bart.

She departed this life, March 4, 1728,

In the 56 year of her age.

In 67 months she was tapped 66 times.

Had taken away 240 gallons of water, without ever

repining at her case, or ever fearing the operation."

 

When Alexander the Great visited the tomb of Cyrus, he found the following inscription:

 

"O, man, whoever thou art, and whenever thou

comest, (for some, I know, thou will), I am Cyrus,

the founder of the Persian empire.  Envy me not

the little earth that covers my body."

 

Alexander, the conqueror of the world, has no epitaph.

 

Thomas Doughty

 

 

Obituaries (February 1)

Hattie Moore

Chenango Union, February 19, 1891

On February 12, 1891, at 9:30 P.M., Miss Hattie Moore finished her earthly career in the home of her parents in East McDonough, N.Y.  She was twenty-three years of age.  For the past year she has been a most intense sufferer from cancer of the throat. Through her entire sickness she has exhibited the most patient resignation.  The end was a glorious triumph of Christian fortitude. She was an exemplary member of the F.B. Church. The funeral services held February 15, 1891, were under the auspices of Union Grange, of which the deceased was a member  Rev. O.L. Cooper acted as Chaplin, and Rev. F.J. Jones preached the sermon.  The large assembly proved the warm place she held in the hearts of the community.  Sister Moore leaves a large circle of relatives and friends to mourn her loss.     F.J.J.

East McDonough [Chenango Co., NY]:  Miss Hattie Moore, who for a long time has been universally known as a long and terrible sufferer from a cancerous tumor, bade adieu to her many friends and passed to the better land, on the 13th inst.  Hattie was a young lady much esteemed, and exemplary in all social apartments, valuable as a church and grange member.  She was a shining light, and when that light became extinguished the elements which it lighted seemed to be in darkness.  Indeed his influence was marked and impressive.  She leaves a void which will be hard to fill, and her life work should be a pattern for all young people.  The funeral was conducted on Sunday by the beautiful and impressive ritual of the Patrons of Husbandry. 

 

Elmer Comell

Chenango Union, February 19, 1891

Unadilla Valley:  A telegram from Sand Coulee, Mon., brings to Leroy Comell, tidings of the death of his son Elmer, on the 5th of February, at the home of his brother Edgar, at that place.  Such tidings are usually sad, but to the many friends of Elmer, who knew his upright Christian character, and his constant suffering from disease, it seems like a release from the "prison house of clay."  No one doubts that he is safe home in heaven, where sorrow and death come nevermore.  His wish was that his body should be brought home, and his funeral should be in his old church home at Union, and the interment at Evergreen Cemetery, but he cheerfully gave up the idea when convinced that it was impractable.  He dictated messages to all his friends just before his death, and calmly fell asleep in Jesus.  He leaves a wife and little daughter in Masonville.  Mrs. E.J. Richmond.

Frederick VanDerLyn

Chenango Union, February 19, 1891

It is with deep regret that we are compelled to record the death of Frederick VanDerLyn, only son of our respected townsman Mr. Ward VanDerLyn, which occurred on Friday last after an illness of only one week.  Death always leaves sad hearts even after the allotted three score and ten, but when he strikes down a young man with life all before him, our hearts are still more sad in the presence of the dread visitor.  Frederick had just entered upon his twenty-seventh year, and few young men had better opportunities before him. With his father he had but recently purchased and fitted up a portion of the Fort Hill Block, and was engaged in the clothing business to which he gave his devoted attention.  In his home he was a loving son and brother, constantly doing little acts of filial devotion and affection, thereby knitting more closely the cords of love which had been given to him without measure and had bound him to the hearts of its inmates.  May the kind Father above "who doeth all things will" send comfort to these sad hearts in their deepest sorrow. ---Times

Ophelia Ives

Chenango Union, April 23, 1891

The funeral of Mrs. L.D. Ives was largely attended on Tuesday, the beautiful day enabling the crowds who could not gain an entrance to the house to gather around.  The beautiful flowers were a small tribute to her who for many years had cut her flowers so lavishly for the sick, and for the burial of the dead.  The remarks of Rev. E.N. Sabin were consoling and appropriate, and tears fell plentifully, for Ophelia was universally beloved, and will be sadly missed.  Providentially the services of Miss Hulda Mallory, a lady of excellent character and capacity had been secured for the lonely home.

 

Obituaries (January 31)

Louie M. (Brooks) Johnson

Chenango Union, July 31, 1890

JOHNSON:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], July 25, 1890, Louie M., wife of Melvin L. Johnson, aged 28 years.

 

Louie M. Johnson was the daughter of Charles and Lydia Brooks, who were old residents of Preston, in which town Louie M. was born in the year 1862.  Her father died when she  was about six years old, and her mother died about three years after.  Soon after the death of her mother she went to live with Mrs. Austin Case, of Preston, and there for a short time with a sister and friends in Hamilton.  When about sixteen years of age she came to live in the family of Marvin W. Tanner of Norwich, where she had a home for five or six years.  In June 1886, she was united in marriage with Melvin L. Johnson of South New Berlin, where they began housekeeping and lived until July 25th when she died after a lingering illness of about two years, consumption claiming her as its victim.  She leaves besides her husband, an infant son, a brother and two sisters.  For a number of years she was a member of the Baptist church of this place.  Near the last days she often spoke of the true and happy years of her married life, and of the faithfulness of him to whom she had given her heart and hand.  She desired very much to live, if it could only be God's will; but if not, she believed that her home would be in that city where only the true and beautiful are.  And so she prayed and asked others to pray that she might be prepared when the Master should come, and near the close said, "I am ready, and long to go."  The funeral service was held at her late home, Sabbath, July 27th, a large number of neighbors and friends being present, showing their esteem for one who had walked a rugged pathway of life, and in their midst had come to its end.  Rev. L.C. Hayes officiated, assisted by Rev. Mr. Jones.  May we not hope that the great love and abundant mercy of God will lead loved ones and neighbors and all to seek Him now, that "where He is they may be also."

 

Wilfred Sannicks

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, August 6, 1890

Oneida:  Wilfred Sannicks, a barber from Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], was jailed Friday morning, being found on the street in a semi-conscious and helpless state.  He claimed he was assaulted in the shop where he was employed, by masked men, who shot him twice in the head and once in the body.  Having the delirium tremens his story was but the hallucination of a diseased mind.  He was allowed to remain in the cell, although medical attendance was provided, until he died at 2:40 P.M.  Mr. Sannicks was twice married, the first wife dying and leaving two children, both daughters, aged 13 and 11 respectively, who reside with their uncle, Charles Robbins, of Norwich, and who have been telegraphed the sad intelligence. The second wife was a Miss Schuyler from near Utica, but she secured a divorce from him ad has a young son by him. 

 

The above is taken from the Oneida Union. Sannicks was thirty-two years old and was the son of Claus Sannicks, who, prior to the war, carried on a saloon in the old Arcade. Claus was better known in his occupation of bell ringer for auctions.  Wilfred, the son, resided here last winter and spring.  He was a good barber, but given to drink.  The first reports received here were to the effect that he had been shot, but the above clipping from the u\Union explains the origin of the rumor.

 

Michael Conway

Chenango Union, July 31, 1890

This community were startled this (Wednesday) morning, by the announcement that Michael Conway, one of our oldest and most respected citizens, was found dead in his bed at his residence on Hayes street. Mr. Conway retired Tuesday evening, apparently in his usual good health, he having appeared in unusually good spirits during the day.  About six o'clock this morning his daughter, Susie, went to his room and called him, when he did not reply, but turned upon his side in bed.  An hour later Mrs. Conway, who had been engaged about her household duties, entered his room and called to him.  Receiving no response, she approached the bed and tried to rouse him, when she found he efforts unavailing.  Calling her son-in-law, William C. Hartigan, who resides near by, he found him apparently unconscious.  Neighbors were summoned, and Dr. Brooks sent for, when it was found that the vital spark had fled.  He had evidently died quietly and without a struggle, probably from heart disease, although it was not known that he had suffered from any difficulty in that direction.

 

Mr. Conway was born March 14, 1820, in Crusheen County Chase, Ireland.  He came to America in 1842, landing at New York, June 27th.  He lived at Friendsville, Pa., one year, after which he removed to McDonough, N.Y., where he worked one year on the farm of Daniel Comstock, father of D.E. Comstock, of this village.  In the spring of 1845 he, with his brother Timothy, engaged in the clothing business,  at the store one door north of the Bank of Norwich.  His brother Timothy died in 1858, since which time deceased has conducted the clothing business in the same building.

 

In 1850, Mr. Conway, was united in marriage with Miss Bessie McGowan, of Smithville, by Rev. Father Stokes.  Their union was blessed with eight children, all of whom survive him as follows:  Cornelius B., John J., William H., Kittie M., (Mrs. Thomas k. Macksey) Minnie E., (Mrs. William C. Hartigan) Jennie, Annie E., and Susie A.  Of his father's family there were eight children, but two of whom are living:  Timothy, died in 1858; Patrick, died in 1880; Thomas, died in 1888; Dennis, died in 1888; Michael, died in 1890; Mrs. H. Harrihill, died in Springfield, Mass., in 1888; Cornelius, now living in Norwich; and Bridget, residing at Springfield, Mass.

 

Michael Conway had by his industry and strict integrity risen from comparatively humble circumstances to a position where he enjoyed the confidence and esteem of the community in which so many years of his long and useful life have been passed, and had secured a competency. Although quiet and unassuming in manner, he was outspoken in his views, and positive in his convictions.  For seventeen years he has been a member of the Board of Education of Norwich, and was an active, zealous member of that organization having the cause of education and the interests of the High School at heart.  His death causes a felling of sadness among his associates on the Board, as it does throughout the entire community.  His surviving widow and children have the heartfelt sympathy of all in their sudden bereavement.  His funeral will be attended from his late residence on Saturday next.

Michael Conway's Funeral

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, August 6, 1890

The funeral of the late Michael Conway was attended Saturday  held in St. Paul's Church, Rev. Father Mahan, of Oxford, officiating, in the absence of Rev. Father Hart.  The attendance of business men and friends of the deceased and family was very large. The Board of Education, of which he had been a member for seventeen years, was present in a body. The Teachers of the school also attended. During the passage of the funeral cortege the business places in town were closed.  By request of the family, no funeral eulogy was pronounced at the church. The music was exceptionally fine, especially the solo, "Salutarius," by Miss Anna Hancock.  The display of flowers was profuse and most beautiful.  Everything connected with the sad event showed the high esteem in which the deceased was held.

Resolutions

At a meeting of the Board of Education, Saturday evening, August 2d, 1890, action was taken relating to the death of Michael Conway, a member of the Board, and the following were unanimously adopted.

Michael Conway, for seventeen years a member of the Board of Education is dead.  He had been spared to reach the ripe age of seventy years.  His life has been one of hard work, usefulness and prosperity.  His character was above reproach, and his influence was always on the side of right and truth.  He was the devoted friend of the young and an earnest laborer in the cause of education, and in all works having for their object the best interests of his fellow man  He was a worthy citizen, a good husband and a worthy citizen, a good husband and a kind, indulgent parent.  He will be missed by his fellow citizens and by this Board, and in the home circle where he was so well loved, his chair will be vacant.  His family has our warmest sympathy and we say to them, your loss is irreparable, yet God, who doeth all things well, will put it in your hearts to say, "it is all right."  Recognizing these facts:

Resolved:  That this expression of our esteem and good will for our departed associate, Michael Conway, be spread upon the records of this district and that a copy be engrossed and delivered to his family, and also
Resolved:   That the same be published in the county papers.
D.M. Holmes, President of the Board of Education
W.F. Jenks, Secretary

 

 

 

 

 

Blog Post Listing January 8 - January 30, 2018

Listing of blog postings for January 8-January 30, 2018

Marriages

Posted January 29, 2018

Marriage Notices

     Rufus Strait - Esther Blanchard  (1850, West Oneonta)

     Dr. Nathan E. Windsor - Sabra Cuase (1850, Otsego)

     George Haight - Sarah M. Chandler (1850, Cazenovia)

     Harvey D. Williams - Celestia M. Rider (1850, DeRuyter)

     James Hempstreet - Mary Jane Adams (1850, Cazenovia)

     Jeremiah DeGroff - Harriet Kinney (1850, Woodstock)

     Ira B. Clark - Maria Fay (1850, Fenner)

     John Crippen - Evelin Jacobs (1852, Cooperstown)

     Francis Mather - Louisa Budd (1852,  Edmeston)

     Henry B. Young - Malina Brewer (1852,  Oneonta)

     Asahel R. Holcomb - Abbie A. Johnson (1861, Norwich)

     Mr. A.D. Smith - Fannie A. Dean (1861, Afton)

     Daniel Shippy - Angeline Edmonds (1861, New Berlin)

Posted January 30, 2018
William D. Smith - Mary A. Stone (Upper Genegantslet)
Frederick Benjamin - Georgia A. Race (Oxford)
Warren McVitte - young insane bridegroom (Guilford)
Frank E. Coles - Lyde J. Harrison (Cheyenne WY)
Marriage notices - 1875
     Erastus C. Billings - Sarah Dixon (Smyrna)
     Myron D. Case - Fannie Collins (Smyrna)
     Charles C. Field - Ada M. Fuller (Sherburne)
     George N. Hackett - Susan M. Shores (Greene)
     Lyman Watrous - Nina Watrous (Greene)
     Albert S. Preston - Carrie Richmond (New Woodstock)
 



Obituaries

Posted January 8, 2018

Joel Morse Guy (Afton, 1924)

Ralph R. Pomeroy (Sidney, Carbondale PA, 1929)

Merritt Delos Brown (Sidney, 1929)

Clella E. (Manwaring) Rolf (Guilford, 1929)

Charles H. Manwaring (Guilford, Unadilla, 1929)

Posted January 9, 2018
Lewis Drury Taft (Triangle, Jamestown, 1891)
Mary Harrison (Greene, 1891)
John Griffin (Brisbin, 1893)
Lewis A. Gross (Okoboji IA, Greene, 1893)
George Henness (Sidney, 1929)

Posted January 10, 2018
David Graves (Norwich, 1884)
Deacon Hickson Jones (Coventry, 1885)
James H. Bliss (Smithville, 1885)
Death notices - 1863
     Erastus Agard (Smithville Flats, 76y)
     Lucy Agard (Union mills, PA, )
     Harriet Browning (Pharsalia, 34y)
     Mary L. Wells (Pharsalia, 90?y)
     Flora Rathbone (McDonough, 9y)
     Helen Hayes (Greene, 30y)
     Lieut --- Jacobs (Oxford), Civil War Soldier
     Almira C. Page (Greene, 29y)
     William Stewart (Afton, 66y)

Posted January 13, 2018
Truman Higley (Bainbridge, 1900)
Dora (Eaton) Atherton (Indianapolis IN, 1900)
Emma H. (Williams) Russell (Afton, 1905)
Mrs. George Hacker (Coeymans, 1905)
Death notices - 1875
     Charles F. Bunnel (Oxford, 56y)
     Daniel Wall (Smithville, 77y)
     Mrs. Gaylord S. Graves (Bainbridge, 41y)
     Sarah J . Button (Smyrna, 44y)
     Eudora Paddleford (Greene, 7y)
     Dr. William J. Orton (Lisle, Greene, 30y)
     Susanna Bidwell (Solon, New Berlin, 74y)

Posted January 14, 2018
General Erastus Root (Delhi, 1846)
Caroline M. Mead (Nelson, 1847)
Rev. E.S. Barrows (Utica, Cazenovia, 1847)
Death notices
     William Earl Faulkner (Utica, 1847, 24y)
     Peries Beadford (Cazenovia, 1847, 83 years)
     Jacob Lamb (1947, Madison, 71y)
     David Dearborn, (1847, Pitcher, Cazenovia, 82y)
     Jane A. Servick (1849, Louisvile, KY, 30y)
     James Raynor (1849, Cazenovia, 90y)
     Emma Ray (1850, Cazenovia, 28y)

Posted January 15, 2018
John Barber (Cazenovia, 1808)
Dr. Amasa Harrington (Laurens, 1820)
William B. Holmes (Utica, NYC, Cazenovia, 1845)
Erastus F. Loomis (Cazenovia, 1849)
Augustus Porter (1849)
Death  Notices
     Susan W. Dodge (DeRuyter, 1845, 19y)
     Selina Gridley (Elmira, Cazenovia, 1849, 62y)
     Sophia Williams (Otsego, 1820, 24)
     Frederick Pickle (Finsbury NJ, 1820, 100y)

Posted January 17, 2018
Jennie Jones (New Lisbon, 1868)
Dr. Aborn Thornton Bigelow(Worcester, 1868)
Annis Shute (Milford, 1863)
Death Notices
     Daphne Jarvis (Otsego, 1868, 75y)
     Elyhu Phinney (Cooperstown, 1863, 77y)
     Caroline Farrington (Byron, 1863, 43y)
     Kittie May Gilchrist (Canajoharie, 1863, 4y)
     Mercy M. Newton (Westville, 1863, 52y)
     Mary Jane Freeman (Otsego, 1863, 7y)

Posted January 24, 2018
Justin Dwinelle (Cazenovia, 1850)
Elihu Phinney (Cooperstown, 1863)
Lucia Williams (Afton, 1905)
Death Notices - 1852
     Hiram H. Keyes (Laurens, 12y)
     Roe McDonald (Oneonta, 25y)

Posted January 27, 2018
Charles Benjamin Smith (Omaha NB, Greene, NY, 1871)
James Hawkins (Afton, 1886)  drowning accident
Death notices - 1850
     Cynthia Chamberlain (Maryland NY, 24y)
     Gertrude VanSyke (Cazenovia, 27y)
     Hon. Justin Dwinelle (Cazenovia, 65y)

Posted January 28, 2018
Gladys (Tilyou) Krum (Afton, 1933)
Edward Eugene Jones (Afton, Binghamton, 1933)
James LeSuer (Afton, 1933)
Rufus King Teller (Unadilla, 1933)
Death Notices - 1875
     Josephine Wilcox (Norwich, 26y)
     Gerardus VanDerLyn (Oxford, 88y)
     Mary Jane Webb (Greene, 33y)
     Orrin Wright (Greene, 65y)
     Mary Henry (Smithville Flats, 65y)
     Burr M. Allen (Afton, 15y)

Posted January 29, 2018
DeVolson Wood (Earlville, Smyrna, 1897)
Amanda (Billings) Wood (Smyrna, 1882)
Julien C. Scott (Bainbridge, 1933)
Etta (Allen) Wickham (Wellsbridge, Unadilla, 1933)
Death Notices - 1875
     Phebe Loomis (Bainbridge, 70y)
     Flora Emma Rathbone (Preston, infant)
     Fayette Bennett (Pitcher, 28y)
     Myron B. Sackett (Plymouth, 10 months)

Posted January 30, 2018
Dr. D.M. Lee (Oxford, 1890)  However--he's not dead
Ebenezer Bidwell (Smyrna, 1890)
Helen L. (Graham) Palmer (Utica, Norwich, 1890)
Maria (Simonds) Stratton (Norwich, Oxford, 1890)
Death Notices - 1890
     John Tanzy (Oxford, 72y)
     Chester Palmer (McDonough, Milford, 22y)
     Helen L. Palmer (Utica, Oxford, 42y)
     Alice G. Mills (Denver CO, Greene)
     Helenda Foster (Wilcox) Lansing (Manlius, Greene)
     Wilfred Sannicks (Oneida, Norwich, 82y)


Miscellaneous

Posted January 8, 2018

Ghost(?) Mystery in Sherburne, NY - 1884  Part 2

Posted January 10, 2018
Ghost (?) Mystery in Sherburne, NY - 1884 Part 1

Posted January 26, 2018
John C. Stoughton of the 114th NY Infantry - 1863, plus obit from 1891

Posted January 30, 2018
The Mysterious Farm House - 1891

The Mysterious Farm House - 1891

The Mysteries of a Farm House

Chenango American, July 23, 1891

The burning of an uninhabited farm house between the village of Madison and Hamilton, in Madison County, brings to the recollection of a correspondent of the Madison Observer a singular story that, while true, has all the attributes of fiction.  It appears that in this house some years ago resided a man named Anson Brooks, with his wife and a family of nearly grown up children.  His wife died, and in his lonely condition he made the acquaintance of a Miss Satwell, a young woman of the place of respectability and of good appearance, and married her, and nothing was thought improper or unwise in his so doing. They continued living together apparently as happy as other people.

 

Mr. Brooks owned a good farm, was free from debt, and seemed to be in a fair way of living.  One morning, while Mrs. Brooks was preparing breakfast and Mr. Brooks was at his barn attending to things there, she blew the horn for him to come to breakfast, and, as he did not come, she went to the barn to call him.  On opening the door she was horrified to see him hanging by his neck and dead.  She notified the neighbors living near by; they took him into the house and had Coroner's proceedings.  The verdict was:  "Mr. Brooks took his life by hanging himself, for reasons unknown to the jury."  As this was the first case of suicide in the town, it started many inquiries as to his cause.  And no cause was ever known.  At the funeral of Mr. Brooks, many people were present, all wondering what was the cause of his strange act. Mrs. Brooks continued living on the farm and after a while she made the acquaintance of George Peckham, and soon married him, taking him to her comfortable home.  Nothing was thought improper in her so doing, and they lived seemingly happy and contented together.

 

About two years from their marriage and at the time she was preparing their breakfast, and while he was at the barn doing the morning chores, she called to him to come to his breakfast.  He not coming, she went to the barn to learn the cause, when, lo! she beheld Mr. Peckham hanging by the neck, in the same place she found Mr. Brooks, and dead. As before, she rallied the neighbors, who took him to the house. The same proceedings were had in the case of Mr. Peckham as were had with Mr. Brooks, and with the same results.  The suicide of Mr. Peckham set people to talking more than did the first case, and many were the conjectures as to the cause of two husbands hanging themselves on account of one woman, and so near together, as well as also in the same place in the barn.  Some said, "Nobody will ever dare to marry that woman again."

 

A while after this, Mrs. Peckham made the acquaintance of a Mr. Smith and married him, taking him to her home.  People wondered at the courage of Mr Smith for so doing and some said, "now look for another hanging here."  Mr. Smith continued with his wife, and apparently they were satisfied with such.  But Mr. Smith was annoyed by being inquired, "If he meant to hurry himself as did those other fellows," and many other such suggestions.  One morning and under just such circumstances as on the former occasions, Mrs. Smith had prepared her breakfast, and Mr. Smith not coming in, she ran to the barn,  expecting to find Mr. Smith in the same condition as she had found her other husbands.  Opening the barn door, he was not to be seen, and so sure was she that he was hanging somewhere that she again called the neighbors, begging them to help her find Mr. Smith, dead or alive.

 

The neighbors searched all around, but could not find Mr. Smith. She asked them to search the reservoir, as it adjoined their place, saying she feared he had sunk himself in the water there.  Mrs. Smith made many wonderings as to what had made all three of her husband "cut up such capers" that it was "just her luck;" that she "never would marry again if that was the way they were goin to act."

 

Whatever became of Mr. Smith was never known.  Certain it is he was never seen after, and his wife always insisted he had sunk himself in the big reservoir adjoining their home.

Marriages (January 30)

Smith - Stone

Chenango American, Greene, NY, February 19, 1891

The marriage of Wm. D. Smith and Mary A. Stone, of Upper Genegantslet, occurred at the residence of the bride Tuesday evening, Feb'y 10th.  Owing to the long continued illness of Father Mahon, the pastor, Rev. W. F. Dwyer, of Binghamton, pronounced the words that made them one. After the marriage ceremony, a bountiful repast was served to the many invited guests. The beautiful and costly presents which the happy couple received, showed the esteem in which they are held by their many friends.  After their wedding tour they will reside on one of Mr. A.B. Robinson's farms.

 

Benjamin - Race

Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 2, 1891

Frederick Benjamin, an employee in the office of the F.G. Clarke blue stone company, at Oxford, was united in marriage to Miss Georgia A. Race, at the residence of the bride's uncle, Mr. F.S. Race of this village, on Wednesday evening of last week.  A large number of invited guests were present, and the bride was the recipient of a nice collection of bridal presents. both young people are popular, and have the best wishes of a host of friends. 

 

A Young Bridegroom Insane

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 25, 1891

Our readers will remember the recent elopement of Miss Flora Eccleston, the 14 year old daughter of Devilo Eccleston, a farmer of Guilford, this county [Chenango], with Warren McVitte, one of her father's farm hands, a midnight marriage at Norwich, Judge Nash officiating, and the subsequent arrest of McVitte, charged by the girl's father with abduction, as the bride was under legal age to consent to marriage. The young man being poor, was unable to furnish the necessary bail, and was put in jail to await the trial.  It now appears that he took his separation from his bride of a few hours keenly to heart, became very despondent and is now a raving maniac, and has been taken to the Binghamton asylum for the insane.

 

Coles - Harrison

Chenango American, December 17, 1891

One of the prettiest home weddings which has occurred in Cheyenne within the past year was celebrated at 2:30 p.m. yesterday at the residence of the Misses Walker, no. 1721 Central avenue.  The high contracting arties were Miss lyde J. Harrison and Mr. Frank E. Coles.  The marriage service was beautifully and impressively performed by Rev. Dr. H.E. Lane of the Presbyterian church. The bride was very pretty in an artistic tailor made traveling dress of dark Salambo Bedford cord, with hat and gloves to match.  The groom appeared handsome and gallant in the conventional morning dress.  Though the wedding was quiet, in accordance with the wishes of the bride, it was none the less enjoyed by the few very intimate friends who were present.  After the marriage ceremony the bridal party and guests sat down to a delicious wedding and Thanksgiving dinner at one and the same time.  After receiving the congratulations and well wishes of the assembled friends and the good byes were said,  the happy couple left by the 4:45 p.m. train for Denver, where they will reside for several months before departing for their permanent home in southern California.  Mr. and Mrs. Coles were the recipients of many articles of use and ornament, as an indication of the high esteem in which they are held by their host of friends in Cheyanne--Cheyanne Paper.   The bride spoken of above is the sister of Mr. Jas. E. Harrison, of this village [Greene, NY].

 

Wedding Notices

Chenango Union, June 24, 1875

 

BILLINGS - DIXON:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], June 16, by Rev. C.C. Johnson, Mr. Erastus C. Billings of Boontown, N.J. to Miss Sarah Dixon of Smyrna.

 

CASE - COLLINS:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], June 16, 1875, by Rev. C.C> Johnson, Mr. Myron D. Case of Hamilton to Miss Fannie Collins of Smyrna.

 

FIELD - FULL:ER:  At Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], June 16, 1875 by Rev. B.W. Weles, Mr. Charles C. Field of Smyrna to Miss Ada M. Fuller of Sherburne.

 

HACKET - SHORES:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], June 9, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Geo. N. Hackett of Greene to Miss Susan M. Shores of North Colesville, Broome Co.

 

WATROUS - WATROUS:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], June 8, by Rev. J.P. Towner, Mr. Lyman Watrous, Colesville to Miss Nina Watrous of Greene.

 

PRESTON - RICHMOND:  In New Woodstock, Madison Co., by Rev. J.N. Talman, Mr. Albert S. Preston of Lincklaen to Miss Carrie Richmond of Preston.

Obituaries (January 30)

Dr. D.M. Lee

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, August 6, 1890

The 22d Vol. Cavalry held a reunion in Rochester the other day. Dr. D.M. Lee, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], attended.  On arriving at headquarters he was somewhat astonished to learn that he was dead, and that a lengthy obituary notice had been prepared and was in the hands of the officers to be read at the proper time.  The Dr. demonstrated that he was in the flesh.  It is said the obituary was chuck full of praise, which the Dr. deserves, whether alive or dead.

 

Ebenezer Bidwell

Chenango Union, July 31, 1890

The death of Ebenezer Bidwell, our veteran Democrat, occurred at the home of his son, Alfred Bidwell, in West Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on Friday last, at the advanced age of 87 years.  Deceased was born in 1803, and at six months of age came with his parents to Smyrna, where he has since resided.  He was honest and industrious, and was honored and respected by all who enjoyed his acquaintance. Though an invalid during the last eight years of his life, he retained his mental faculties to the day of his death.  As a good neighbor and kind friend he will be missed in the community where he has so long resided.  He had a strong belief in universal salvation, and in politics was an unswerving Democrat, having voted the Democratic ticket for sixty-one consecutive times, a fact he was always proud to relate.  His funeral was largely attended on Sunday, at his late home, Rev. H.S. Baker officiating.  His sons and grandsons acted as pall bearers, and the interment was in the West Smyrna burial ground.

 

Helen I. (Graham) Palmer

Chenango Union, July 31, 1890

Just before 12 o'clock last night, at her home No. 99 Steuben street, occurred the death of Mrs. John R. Palmer, after an illness of several months' duration.  Mrs. Palmer was for many years engaged as stenographer and court reporter, and was widely known.  Her maiden name was Helen L. Graham.  She was born in Guilford, Chenango county.  She was an only child and her parents dying while she was quite young, she was adopted by Gilbert Jewell, a wealthy farmer of Guilford. After attending the district schools she entered Oxford Academy, and graduated after a full course. She was married at Oxford in 1869, and removed with her husband to Norwich, where he conducted the Palmer House.  During this time she took up the study of stenography, and soon became very proficient in the art.  There were few good stenographers in those days and her services were soon in demand.  She was appointed by Judge Prindle the official reporter of the Chenango County Court, and soon after was made the official reporter of the courts of Delaware and Madison counties. The terms were so arranged by the Judges that she was able to attend the courts of all the three counties.  In 1877, Mr. and Mrs. Palmer came to Utica and by Judge Bliss Mrs. Palmer was appointed reporter of the Oneida County Court, which position she held during the remainder of his term and that of Judge Sutton.  Mrs. Palmer was also the reporter of the Surrogate's Court during the administrations of Surrogates Van Dreser and Bliss.  Besides the work she did in these official positions, Mrs. Palmer was frequently engaged in taking evidence in reference cases and in other proceedings.  She was at one time stenographer for the State Board of Assessors.  Probably no other woman was so constantly engaged in Stenographic work. At one time she employed a number of assistants in transcribing her notes.  Some of the best stenographers in Utica today were her pupils.  She took notes very rapidly and was able to read them without the slightest hesitation at any time.  There were few stenographers who could equal her, and judges and lawyers were always pleased when she was the person selected to take the report of a trial.  Mrs. Palmer was very pleasant and obliging and made many friends by whom her death will be regretted.  Her husband survives.  Utica Press, Wednesday.

 

Maria (Simonds) Stratton

Chenango Union, July 31, 1890

At 9:30 O'clock this (Wednesday) morning, Mrs. Maria Stratton passed peacefully away, at the residence of her son, Whitman Stratton, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], in the seventy-first year of her age.  Maria Simonds was born in the town of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], in February 1820.  In September, 1839, she married William Stratton, of that town, who died in 1847.  Since 1865 she has made her home with her son in this village, and her life has been one of usefulness and helpfulness.  In the sick room, in the homes of the poor or distressed, wherever there was suffering or sorrow, she ministered to their wants, and by her kindly presence cheered the despondent and brought sunshine to their homes.  For the past ten years she has been in feeble health, and on Thursday last became much worse.  On Friday morning she was stricken with paralysis and gradually failed until Wednesday morning, when she passed over the river.  A loving mother, a good neighbor and a kind friend, she will be missed by many. She was a conscientious member of the Congregational church in this village, and when health permitted was a regular attendant upon its services. She leaves surviving her two children, Whitman and Lottie of this village, who have the sympathies of this community in their loss.  Brief funeral services will be held at her late residence, Saturday, at 8:30 A.M.  The remains will be taken to South Oxford for burial, where services will be held at the residence of George Stratton.

 

Death Notices

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, August 6, 1840

 

TANZY:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY],August 3d 1890, John Tanzy aged 72 years.

 

PALMER:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], August 3d, 1890, Chester Palmer of Milford, Otsego County, aged 22 years.

 

PALMER:  In Utica [Oneida Co., NY], July 30th, 1890, Helen L. [Palmer], wife of John R. Palmer, aged 42 years, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

 

MILLS:  In Denver, Col. July 21st, Alice G. [Mills] wife of Charles H. Mills and daughter of Edmund Gould, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

 

LANSING:  In Manlius, N.Y., July 21st, 1890, Mrs. Helenda Foster (Wilcox) [Lansing] wife of Peter Lansing, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co., NY]

 

SANNICKS:  In Oneida [Oneida Co., NY], August 1st, 1890, Walfred Sannicks, aged 83 years, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]

Marriages (January 29)

Marriage Notices

 

The Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, February 23, 1850

Strait - Blanchard:  At West Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY], Feb. 17, by Rev. E. M. Spencer, Mr. Rufus Strait and Miss Esther Blanchard, all of Oneonta.

 

Windsor - Cuase:  In Otsego [Otsego Co., NY], on the 14th inst., by the Rev. G.W. Gates, Dr. Nathan E. Windsor of Hartwick [Otsego Co., NY] and Miss Sabra Cuase of Otsego.

Madison County Whig, October 16, 1850

Haight - Chandler:  In New Woodstock, Oct. 14th, by Rev. John Fulton, Mr. George Haight, to Miss Sarah M. Chandler, all of Cazenovia [Madison Co., NY].

Williams - Rider:  In DeRuyter [Madison Co., NY], Oct. 15, by V. Bently Esq., Harvey D. Williams of Cazenovia [Madison Co., NY], and Celestia M. Rider of the former place.

Madison County Whig, September 25, 1850

Hempstreet - Adams:  Sept. 19th, by Rev. G.S. Boardman, Mr. James Hempstreet, of Russia [Herkimer Co., NY], to Miss Mary Jane Adams, daughter of Mr. Amos Adams of Cazenovia [Madison Co., NY].

DeGroff - Kinney:  At Woodstock on the 19th ult., by the Rev. Mr. Fulton, Mr. Jeremiah DeGroff, of Cranesville, Montgomery county, and Miss Harriet Kinney of DeRuyter [Madison Co., NY].

Clark - Fay:  In Fenner [Madison Co., NY], on the 10th ult. by Rev. Wm. Clarke, Mr. Ira B. Clark, of Pompey [Onondaga Co., NY], and Miss Maria Fay of the former place.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, July 9, 1852

Crippen - Jacobs:  In Cooperstown, July 1st, by Rev. J. A. Aspinwall, Mr. John Crippen to Miss Eveline Jacobs, both of Laurens [Otsego Co., NY].

Mather - Budd:  At Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY], by Rev. J.J. Miller, Mr. Francis Mather of Burlington [Otsego Co., NY] to Miss Louisa Budd, of the former place.

Young - Brewer:  At Oneonta, July 1st, by Rev. E.M. Spencer, Mr. Henry B. Young to Miss Malina Brewer, daughter of Isaac Brewer, Esq. both of Oneonta [Otsego  Co., NY]

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 4, 1861

Holcomb - Johnson:  In Norwich, on the 27th ult, by Rev. L. Wright, Mr. Asahel R. Holcomb, to Miss Abbie A. Johnson, both of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]

Smith - Dean:  At Otego, Feb. 28th, by Rev. W. Church, Mr. A.D. Smith, to Miss Fannie A. Dean, both of Afton [Chenango Co., NY]

In New Berlin, on the 28th ult., by Rev. B. Woodmansee, Mr. Daniel Shippy, of Eaton, Steuben Co, to Miss Angeline Edmonds of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].



 

Obituaries (January 29)

DeVolson Wood

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, July 17, 1897

We notice in The Telegraph of the 15th, the death of DeVolson Wood of Earlville [Madison Co., NY].  Mr. Wood was a Smyrna man [Chenango Co., NY].  He was born in this town and taught school in several districts in the vicinity and your correspondent went to school to him in 1851.  After teaching here a few years he went to Ann Arbor, Michigan, and was principal of a school there for quite a number of years.  He resigned his position in that place and accepted one in Hoboken, N.J. where he died.  He was one of the ablest scholars Smyrna ever had.  He has a younger brother, Hudson Wood, that is teaching and is called nearly his equal.  Another brother, Pomeroy, lives in this place now.  there were three or four girls.  Their father, Julius Wood was deacon of the Congregational church at Smyrna for quite a number of years.

 

Amanda (Billings) Wood

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, March 18, 1882

Died:  in Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], March 7, 1992, Mrs. Amanda Billings Wood, aged 78 years, widow of the late Deacon Julius Wood. 

 

Mrs. Wood lived and died in the town of her nativity.  Her father, Joseph Billings was one of the first settlers of the town, having moved from the State of Connecticut, and settled on the farm where he afterwards lived and died  Amanda was the seventh of eight children, of whom two are still living:  one, Laura Billings, aged 81 years, lives at Gaines, N.Y., the other, Harlow Billings, aged 77, now lives in his native town of Smyrna.  The deceased was married to Julius Wood May 15, 1831, of the same town.  They had ten children, one of whom, Emmons, died in infancy.  Of the others, DeVolson Wood, Boonton, N.J. is professor in Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, N.J., Pomeroy B. Wood lives on a farm joining the old homestead; Helen A. married to O.L. Munn, settled in Chicago, and has taken care of her mother in Smyrna for the past five years; Amelia married David L. Buell, settled at Union, Mich., and died 1880, Hudson A. Wood is professor in the School of Languages, New York city, Abi E. married Ira B. Buell, and settled in Kansas, and died soon after, in 1872.  Celia A. married Norman A. Beecher of Flushing, Mich., where they now reside, Genie H. married Warren I. Hicks, settled in Wainego, Kansas, where they now live.  Frank F. Wood is in business at Created Butte, Colorado.  All except Mrs. Hicks and F.F. Wood were present at the funeral.  The surviving children are witnesses of the worth of the deceased as a mother, friend and counsellor, with all those words imply.  They miss her.  The church of which she was a member have been witnesses of her faithfulness and activity. She was ever present with her family at the church and Sabbath school, and ready to share the responsibilities devolving upon its members.  Even after she became too weak to be trusted to walk into church alone, she went, assisted by her eldest daughter, Mrs. Munn.  The church will miss her.  To the needy in society she had a cheery word and a helping hand.  Many to whom she has ministered will miss her encouraging words and her kind and friendly smile.  During her younger years she was very vigorous, but has been declining for years.  She had no particular disease, but the physical nature gradually wore out, until during the last two years of her life she was entirely helpless.  She simply breathed her life out and passed away as quietly as a child goes to sleep.

 

Julien C. Scott

Sidney Enterprise, May 18, 1933

Julien C. Scott, 67, Bainbridge attorney died at his home in that village early Tuesday morning of a heart attack.  His sudden death was a great shock to a wide circle of friends.  Mr. Scott was for years president of the village Board of Education.  He served as member of the State Assembly in 1908 and prior to that served as a special county judge, filling that office for three years.  His funeral will be held Friday morning at 10:30 o'clock in Bainbridge. The members of the Chenango Bar Association will attend the funeral in a body.  Besides his widow he is survived by a step-daughter, Mrs. H.C. Landon of Bainbridge.

 

Etta (Allen) Wickham

Sidney Enterprise, May 18, 1933

Mrs. Etta Wickham wife of Hiram B. Wickham, passed away Saturday morning at 8 o'clock.  Mrs. Wickham has been in poor health for some time but was only confined to her bed the past ten days.  Etta Allen Wickham was born Aug. 6, 1860, in Thompkins, and was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Otis Allen.  On April 12, 1885, she was united in marriage to Hiram B. Wickham. Their entire married life was spent in Wellsbridge, until 15 years ago when they left their farm and purchased a home in Unadilla. The funeral was held Monday at 1 o'clock from her late home, Rev. Harold C. Buckingham pastor of the Methodist church officiating.  Burial was made in Evergreen cemetery [Unadilla, Chenango Co., NY].  She is survived by her husband, one sister, Mrs. Jessie Sweeney of Schenectady, one brother, Edward O. Allen of Kinston, and a nephew, Edward Sweeney of Schenectady.

 

Death Notices

Chenango Union, November 18, 1875

 

LOOMIS:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 6, Phebe [Loomis], wife of Philander loomis, aged 70 years.

 

RATHBONE:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 12, Flora Emma [Rathbone], infant daughter of Lyman and Susan Rathbone.

 

BENNETT:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 9, Mr. Fayette Bennett, aged 28 years.

 

SACKETT:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 30, 1875, Myron B. [Sackett], only son of Wm. N. and Mary J. Sackett, aged 10 months.

Obituaries (January 28)

Gladys (Tilyou) Krum

Afton Enterprise, May 16, 1933

On Monday evening, My 15, 1933, occurred the death of Mrs. Gladys Krum, aged 32 years, wife of Garry Krum, well known in Afton [Chenango Co., NY], at her home on Caswell Street, following a brief illness.  Mrs. Krum was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H.H. Tilyou of this place, and besides her parents and husband, she is survived by two sons by a former marriage, Spurgeon and Lloyd Shillabeer, one sister, Mrs. Vern Wiley of Binghamton, two nieces and two nephews.  The funeral was held his Thursday afternoon from the Baptist church of Afton at 2 o'clock, Rev. L.D. Huxtable, officiating, with burial in the Masonville Cemetery [Delaware Co., NY].  Funeral arrangements were by Colwell Brothers.

 

Edward Eugene Jones

Afton Enterprise, May 16, 1933

Edward Eugene Jones, 72, former resident of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], died at the home of Charles C. Harris on Algerine Street, Afton, Saturday afternoon, May 13, where he had been residing for the past year.  Death was due to heart disease.  The deceased is survived by one daughter, Miss Mina Jones of Brooklyn; by two brothers, Lewis and Clarence Jones of Philadelphia; and by one sister, Mrs. Mildred Tyrell, of Binghamton.  The funeral was held at 2 o'clock, Wednesday afternoon, at Tabor's Funeral Parlor, the Rev. Clifford E. Webb of the Afton Presbyterian church, officiating.  burial was made in Glenwood Cemetery [Afton, Chenango Co., NY].

 

James LeSuer

Afton Enterprise, May 16, 1933

James LeSuer, a life-long resident of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], passed away Sunday night, May 7th, 1933, at the home of his sister, Mrs. B.F. Davis, at the age of 61 years.  He had been in ill health for the past year and, during the last few weeks, failed very rapidly.  The funeral was held Wednesday, May 19th, at the Colwell Bros. Funeral Chapel Bainbridge, Rev. Orvis, pastor of the Bainbridge Presbyterian church, officiating.  Burial was made in the East side Cemetery at Afton.  He is survived by two sisters and several nieces and nephews.

 

Rufus King Teller

Sidney Enterprise, May 18, 1933

Rufus King Teller, a successful business man of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], passed away at his home early Tuesday morning, his death being caused by complications and the infirmities of age.  He was born in Davenport [Delaware Co., NY], September 16, 1847 and was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Teller.  The year following his birth, his parents moved to Unadilla and almost his entire life was spent in this village.  He has had interest in several business concerns in the village, latterly in the coal business.  He was prominent in the activities of the Presbyterian church and in G.L. Halsey lodge, I.O.O.F.  Mr. Teller is survived by his widow and a son and two daughters of a former marriage: S.J. Teller of West Hartford, Conn., Mrs. Lillian Snodgrass of Rochester and Miss [Lois] Teller of Washington D.C., two granddaughters Evelyn and [Ida] Snodgrass of Rochester and a grandson, Henry Teller of West Hartford, Conn.  The funeral will be held from his late home Friday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock Rev. John T. Lyon pastor of the Federated church, officiating.  The burial will be made in Evergreen Hill cemetery [Unadilla, NY].

 

Death Notices

Chenango Union, November 18, 1875

 

WILCOX:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 15, 1875, Josephine [Wilcox] daughter of the late Wm. W. and Alta Wilcox, aged 26 years.

 

VANDERLYN:  in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 8, Mr. Gerardus VanDerLyn, aged 88 years.

 

WEBB:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 6, Mary Jane [Webb], wife of Geo. W. Webb, aged 33 years.

 

WRIGHT:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 3, Mr. Orrin Wright, aged 65 years.

 

HENRY:  In Smithville Flats [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 3, 1875, Mary [Henry], wife of Wm. Henry, aged 65 years.

 

ALLEN:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 8, 1875 Burr M. [Allen], son of B.G. and H.E. Allen, aged 15 years.