Letter from John G. Stevens - Civil War - January 1862

Letter from John G. Stevens

Civil War Soldier, Ellsworth Avengers

Chenango Telegraph, January 8, 1862

We are permitted to print the following from a letter written by John G. Stevens - son of Capt. S.S. Stevens, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY]- to Guy R. Wescott.  In this place we may say that we are sure that there is not, in the whole Federal army, a young man who is actuated by higher feelings of patriotism than our friend John.  He entered the army because he felt in his heart that our country and its free institutions were in peril--that they needed the protection of such strong arms and firm determinations as he possessed--and he went to their defense in no spirit of bravado, nor because he loved wandering and delighted in desperate adventures, but purely and simply that he might do what he thought his share towards defending the home where a father, mother and sisters, whom he dearly loved, quietly dwelt.  His letter is dated at Camp Butterfield.

"Your letter gave great satisfaction to your friend, who is so far from home and kindred, but I feel that it is right for me to be here, and it necessary to lay down my life to sustain such a great and glorious nation as ours, and restore our time honored flag to its former place as the emblem of liberty.  Look at it, friend Guy, and think, if but for a moment, what destruction and desolation this war has caused--think how many widows and orphans it has made--how many firesides it has stripped of the loved ones who were wont to gather about there--and then unite with me in cursing the rebel politicians, who brought it upon our beloved country.  If you could stand with the soldier here and look over the dreary waste of country that lies under his eye--the scene only enlivened by the tents and armaments of the hosts gathered to repel invasion, and put down this rebellion--you would wonder as all do, at the mad folly of those who brought this state of things upon us.  For my part, I am here to aid in righting the wrong we have already suffered--to do my share of the duty which the Ellsworth Avengers were raised to perform.

"I enlisted to aid in protecting the Stars and Stripes, and to do my part towards avenging the murder of the patriot from whom our Regiment took its name, and if I die in pursuit of these objects, I am satisfied that the cause for which I shall perish is the most glorious of any for which many ever fought.

"Everything is quiet along the Potomac, and our only excitement is an occasional skirmish with the rebel pickets.

"These men are perfect brutes, seeming to be actuated by the most fiendish desire to abuse and torture those of our army whom they take prisoners.  About two weeks ago they took three of the 14th regiment, and a short time afterwards their bodies were found bruised in a shameful manner, and their heads pounded to jelly by the butts of muskets.

""Our regiment is no more nor less than it is represented to be.  It is composed of the very best material, and there is scarcely one in it who is not blessed with good morals and a sincere desire to do his best for the country. We are all in good spirits and are comfortably quartered.  Our tents have been made quite close and warm, and we can get along almost as well as at home.  Our cold weather is not very cold.

"Marvin Sherwood reached here about ten days ago, with two recruits.  One of them, Henry Thompson is now down with the measles.  Our health, generally is good."
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From New York Adjutant-General's Report, 1900 for 44th NY Infantry
"Stevens, John G.:  Age, 20 years. Enlisted, August 8, 1861, at Albany, to serve three years; mustered in as private, Co. D, August 9, 1861; wounded in action, July 1, 1862, at Malvern Hill, Va.; discharged for disability, November 28, 1862, at Philadelphia, Pa."

STEVENS:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], September 3d, of consumption, Mr. John G. Stevens, son of Capt. S.S. Stevens.  [Chenango Union, Sept. 13, 1871]

In Memoriam:  At a Special Meeting of the Norwich league of Friendship, S.M.O.S., at Mechanics' Hall, September 4th, 1871, the following Resolutions were unanimously adopted:

Whereas The Great Architect, through his mysterious ways, having removed from our number our much esteemed Brother, John G. Stevens, while in his youthful manhood, when his hopes of life would seem naturally highest, and prospects and usefulness best known and appreciated:  Therefore,

Resolved, That we recognize in this the hand of the Master Workman, whose wisdom surpasseth our understanding and learn from this forcible illustration that "In the midst of life we are in death."

Resolved, That by his death we lose a worthy Brother, and an earnest friend; that while others may take his place in our League Room, the void space in our hearts occasioned by the loss of a patriotic sympathetic and generous a heart, can never be filled.

Resolved, That we tender our sympathies to the family of the deceased, whose hearts must be more deeply moved than ours at the loss of so kind a husband and affectionate a father.
[Chenango Union, Sept. 13, 1871]

Memorial Record

The Deceased Soldiers of Norwich

Chenango Union, May 29, 1873

John G. Stevens, son of Samuel S. and Elizabeth White Stevens was born at Whitney's Point, Broome County, April 13th, 1842; carriage painter.  Enlisted August 8th, 1861, in Company D, 44th N.Y.H.V.; wounded at Malvern Hill, July 1st 1862; sent to Washington, thence to Philadelphia where he was discharged for gun shot fracture of the leg, November 28th, 1862.  continued in poor health and disabled for a number of years and died of consumption, September 3d, 1871.  buried in Norwich Cemetery.  Left wife and two children.  This soldier had two brothers in the service:  George F., wounded May 5th in the Wilderness, and Samuel S.,Jr., in the 89th, N.Y, who was discharged at the expiration of term of service.
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John G. Stevens is buried in Mount Hope Cemetery, Norwich, Chenango Co., NY
Tombstone Transcription
John G. Stevens
Died
Sept. 3, 1871
Aged 29 Y'rs
4 Mo's 22 D's
A member of Co. D 44 Regt. N.Y. Vols.

Obituaries (September 26)

Ida M. Jackson

Died July 24, 1932, Norwich, NY

Mrs. Ida Jackson died at 83 Pleasant street at 9 o'clock Sunday night aged 75 years. Funeral services will be held at 2 o'clock Wednesday at the late home, Rev. James K. Romeyn officiating.  There survive the following sons and daughters:  Mrs. John H. Griffiths of Rochester, Nathan P. Jackson of Cooperstown, Mrs. M. Starr Matterson of Seneca Falls, Lewis B. Jackson of Big Moose, Charles H. Jackson of Seneca Falls, Mrs. J. Gibhart of Rochester and Orrin F. Jackson of Norwich. There is also one grandchild, Florence Jackson of Cooperstown.

Charles H. Jackson

Died April 26, 1941, Seneca Falls, NY

Charles H. Jackson died April 26, 1941, at his home in Seneca Falls [Seneca Co. NY].  he was 53 years old and was born in Gilbertsville, N.Y. [Otsego Co.] He moved to Seneca Falls nine years ago.  He was a carpenter by trade and was working for his brother-in-law, Starr Matterson, at the time of his death.  He leaves a wife and three sisters, Mrs. John Griffith and Mrs. Jack Gibheart of Rochester and Mrs. Starr Matterson of Seneca Falls; also three brothers, Louis Jackson, Big Moose, N.Y., Orrin Jackson of Norwich and Nathan Jackson of Cooperstown. The funeral will be held at the Saunders Funeral Home in Seneca Falls Tuesday at 1 o'clock.  Burial will be in New Berlin Tuesday afternoon in Fairview cemetery.

William Henry Jacox

Died February 20, 1933, New Berlin, NY

Monday morning, February 20, 1933, William Henry Jacox, son of the late Warren and Sarah Bagg Jacox, passed away after a brief illness of pneumonia at the home of his sister, Miss Esther Jacox, in this village.  Mr. Jacox was born August 14, 1856, at the Jacox homestead just below this village on the east side and had always lived in this vicinity.  He was a graduate of Colgate university with an A.B. degree and for a short time taught school.  Later he became a farmer and followed that occupation until the time of his death. When a young man he united with the Baptist church in South New Berlin and was a faithful and devout member for over sixty years.  He was clerk of the church forty-seven years and always deeply interested in its welfare, being a Sunday school teacher a large part of his adult life.  Mr. Jacox was a kindly man and an interesting speaker, and those who had the privilege of listening to him realized that he was well informed on many subjects.  He was also a collector and preserver of church and village records which have been valuable and at the one hundredth anniversary of the Baptist church wrote and gave the church history.  He continued his activities until a short time ago when he was forced to withdraw and devote his time and energy to the care of an invalid sister.  Mr. Jacox never married, and the only surviving relatives besides some cousins are two sisters, Miss Esther Jacox and Miss Luella Jacox. Another sister, Frances, died February 15, 1933 after a few days' illness.  To those two surviving sisters the sympathy of all goes out in their affliction. The funeral was held Wednesday afternoon, February 22, 1933 at the Baptist church. Rev. C.H. Skinner pastor of the church, spoke of the many years he had served the church and his faithful work.  He was buried in the family plot in Riverside cemetery.

Sarah Fletcher Jacobs

Died November 18, 1940, Oxford, NY

Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. Sarah Fletcher Jacobs, wife of United States Marshal Jesse Jacobs, died at the Jacobs homestead in Oxford at 6:30 o'clock this morning following a long illness.  A woman widely known and respected throughout Chenango County and the Southern Tier, the loss of Sarah Jacobs in the Chenango County community will be hard to fill, friends said tonight. She was secretary of the Board of Visitors of the Women's Relief Corps Home at Oxford, an office to which she was appointed by Alfred Smith when he was governor of New York State. Two days before the recent election she was remembered by President Roosevelt in a personal telegram which the Chief Executive sent to her husband.  Born in Williamsport, Pa., Nov. 15, 1881, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George B. Fletcher, Mrs. Jacobs came to Oxford with her parents when she was seven years old.  For many years the Fletcher grist mill and feed store was well known in Oxford and Chenango County. A former chairman of the Chenango County Red Cross, Mrs. Jacobs was a member of St. Paul's Episcopal Chruch and the Incognito Club of Norwich.  On Aug. 18, Mr. and Mrs. Jacobs celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary.  Besides the husband, a cousin, Dorothy Cone of Port Dickinson is the only survivor.  A prayer service will be held at the Jacobs home Wednesday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock with the funeral at St. Paul's Chruch at 2 o'clock.  The Rev. James E. Mahagan, rector of St. Paul's will officiate. Burial will be in Riverview Cemetery.

Death Notices

Chenango American, December 8, 1861

In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., of typhoid fever, after an illness of five weeks, Mr. Hiram Tyler, aged 23 years and 7 months.

In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d ult., Mr. Jefferson Adams, aged 54 years and 7 months.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st ult., Ellen May (Westcott], only daughter of Dr. J.J. and M.M. Westcott, aged 10 months and 11 days.

Chenango American, December 26, 1861

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st inst., Mr. Gideon Wetmore, Sen., in the 92d year of his age.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst., David E. [Bedford], youngest son of David and Clara Bedford, in the 7th year of his age.

In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY] on the 19th inst., Elcy [Justus], daughter of George Justus, aged 11 years.

In Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY], on the 11th inst., Robert O. Edwards, Esq., aged 76 years.

In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst., Mason C. [Gale], son of Mason S., and Celia n. Gale, aged 16 months.

Chenango American, January 23, 1862

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th inst., Lottie M. [Squires], only daughter of Gen. Charles Squires, aged 19 years.

Obituaries (September 25)

John H. Laden

Died October 29, 1915, Norwich, NY

The funeral of John H. Laden, who died at his home at 45 Maydole street Friday, will be held from the residence Tuesday morning at 8:30 o'clock and from St. Paul's church at 9:30 o'clock, Rev. E.R. Prendergast officiating and burial will be made in St. Paul's cemetery [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].  Mr. Laden, who was but 25 years of age, was well known throughout the city and had been a popular employee of the New York, Ontario & Western railroad company.  For the past four years he has been in failing health but was able to work until last February.  He was a member of the Holy Name society of St. Paul's church and in his youth had been an altar boy.  He is survived by his wife and two small children, Margaret and Mary; his father and mother, one sister, Miss Mary Laden, and two brothers, Martin J. Laden and Leo Laden all of this city.

Rachel Anna LaDue

Died March 8, 1926, Norwich, NY

Miss Rachel Anna LaDue, aged 75 years, died at her home at 57 1/2 North Broad street Monday evening, March 8, 1926.  Miss LaDue was born in Dover, Dutchess county, N.Y., but had spent the greater part of her life in Norwich.  The funeral will be held from the Lawrence and Devine undertaking chapel on Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock, the Rev. W.A. Ashmore officiating, and the body will be placed in the vault in Mt. Hope cemetery awaiting burial in the spring in the family plot at North Norwich. Surviving Miss LaDue are one sister and one brother, Mrs. Rilla L. Reynolds, of Norwich and Seymour LaDue of Sherburne.  Another brother, Webster, died a little over a year ago.  Orville L. Reynolds of Norwich is a nephew of the deceased, and other nieces and nephews, residing out of town also survive.

Dr. Lewis Rutherford Morris

Died December 9, 1936, New York City

Dr. Lewis Rutherford Morris, 74, Morris and New York philanthropist and physician, died of cerebral hemorrhage at 5:45 yesterday morning at his apartment in New York City.  Funeral services will be held at St. Thomas church in New York at 11 o'clock tomorrow morning and the committal will be made on his estate, Morris Manor, sometime tomorrow afternoon following brief services at All Saints' chapel which his father helped to build with his own hands.  Dr. Morris was widely known for his generous gifts not only in Morris, which was named for his family, but in Oneonta, to which he donated Neahwa park, and Norwich, where he contributed largely to the remodeling of the hospital there. The central school at Morris, which bears his name, was made possible by the generosity of Dr. and Mrs. Morris, who contributed half of the original cost.  Dt. Morris had spent the past summer, as usual, at the Manor house in Morris, except for a few weeks in Canada fishing for salmon in the Ristigouche river.  He and Mrs. Morris returned to New York shortly after election day, and intended to pass the cold months at their winter home, Pleasant hill plantation, at Harnett, S.C.  About five years ago, Dr. Morris underwent a serious operation and his health had never been robust since, although in his uncomplaining way he called himself well.  On his arrival in New York, he took a turn for the worse and the southern trip was cancelled that he might have expert medical attention.  His reserve strength had been spent and this time he failed to respond to skillful ministrations.  Born in Morris 75 years ago September 27, he was the third and youngest child of James Rutherford and Ellen Elizabeth (Howe) Morris. The other two children were daughters who now reside in California.  They are Mrs. Anna (Morris) Pomeroy and Mrs. Laura (Morris) Hartmann.  The family was one of rare culture, and all its members were leaders in their communities.  They were noted also for their exceptional memories.  Dr. Morris was named for his ancestor, Lewis Morris, a signer of the Declaration of Independence from the colony of New York.  In his early and middle life, Dr. Morris was a well known physician of exceptional ability in New York city, and his list of patients included members of the most prominent families of the city.  He had traveled widely about this country and abroad and was an interesting conversationalist.  He married Miss Katherine Clark, a daughter of the late Senator William R. Clark of Montana and New York. To them was born one daughter, Katherine Elizabeth Clark Morris, now the wife of John Hudson Hall, Jr., of Scarsdale.  Dr. Morris was a man of strong convictions and attachments.  He was devoted to his home and family, including his three grandchildren, who were his especial love and pride.  He was loyal to his God, his country and his friends.  people whom he had helped were legion.  In addition to aiding in the building ot the Lewis Rutherford Morris central school at Morris, Dr. and Mrs. Morris made many gifts to Zion Episcopal church at Morris and All Saints' chapel ont he Manor estate.  He was a member and vestryman of Zion church.  With his wife, he also contributed to the erection of the chapel at south New Berlin as well as the remodeling of the hospital at Norwich.  ….[Regarding Neahwa Park, he rejected] the suggestion that it be named Morris park, and asked that Willard Yager, noted Indian authority, select a name. He offered Neahwa, which means "meadows by the river."  Dr. Morris wanted no elaborate reminder of his gift and asked that only a simple marker be placed at the gateway. The right hand pillar there now bears the inscription, "Presented to the city of Oneonta by Dr. and Mrs. Lewis R. Morris of Morris, N.Y."  and on the left says simply "Neahwa park."  In addition to Dr Morris' many local benefactions, he extended much help to students.  His generosity to the Salvation Army, Red Cross and to churches, hospitals and schools in New York and elsewhere were known only to Dr. and Mrs. Morris' intimate friends.  A trustee of the Corcoran art gallery in Washington, D.C. he had many other interests, but loved his native Butternut valley and often said that in all his travels, no place could be found that held a greater appeal of beauty.  He had attended services many times in the little chapel by the roadside between Morris and Gilbertsville which was built in part by his father's own hands. The loving sympathy of hundreds of friends will be extended to the devoted wife, and daughter in their grief.--Oneonta Star

Death Notices

Chenango American, December 8, 1861

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th inst., Jane Eliza [Foot], youngest daughter of Robert E. and Susan R. Foot, aged 8 years and 10 months.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d ult., Mary [Conant], daughter of Rufus and Sarah Conant, aged 4 years and 9 months.

Chenango American, December 12, 1861

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] on the 7th inst., Mr. Charles E. Barnes, aged 27 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 6th ult., of injuries received from falling from a Canal Boat , Edmon T. Lawton, of this town, aged 22 years and 6 months.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., of consumption, Mrs. Manetta Waite, wife of the late Ezra J. Waite, aged 21 years and 6 months.

Chenango American, December 19, 1861

In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th ult., of diptheria, Arthur Delos [Foote], eldest son of Thomas B. and Henrietta M. Foote, aged 4 years 6 months.

Marriages (September 24)

Marriage Notices

Chenango American, December 8, 1861

In South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th ult., by Rev. W. Peck, Mr. R.R. Green, to Miss Alexiewna Reynolds, both of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Also at the same time and place, by the same, Mr. Wm. Carnalia, to Miss Lovina Burlingame, both of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango American, December 12, 1861

In Pittsfield [Otsego Co., NY], on the 26th ult., by Rev. Wm. M. DeLong, Mr. Samuel Steere, of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Miranda Risedorph, of Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY].

Chenango American, December 19, 1861

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., by Rev. Jas. D. Webster, Mr. James K. Webster, to Mrs. Cecelia Bump, all of this town.

At the residence of Henry R. Mygatt, Esq., in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., by Rev. H. Callahan, Mr. Pardon Smith to Miss Caroline Adams.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., by B.F. Lownsberry, Esq., Mr. Hezekiah Wheeler, to Miss Louisa Vitoria Adkins, all of Oxford.

Chenango American, December 26, 1861

In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th ins.t, by Rev. J.L. Jones, Mr. Russell Cheney, to Miss Amelia Ann Pratt, all of New Berlin. 

In Earlville [Madison Co., NY] on the 11th inst., by Rev. T.P. Halsted, Mr. Jarvis Close of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Eliza Jane Reynolds, of Lebanon [Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango American, January 16, 1862

In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., by Rev. B.S. Williams, Mr. Benjamin Seymour to Miss Emma E. Janes, both of North Norwich.

In North Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult., by Rev. Mr. House, Mr. George S. Eldredge, to Miss Adelia M. Follett, all of that place.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Stephen J. Eccleston, to Miss Emily M. Preston, all of Oxford.

Chenango American, January 23, 1862

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., by Rev. D. Ballou, Mr. Joseph Corbin, and Miss Polly Tillotson, both of the above place.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 15th inst., by Rev. W.R. Cobb, Mr. Winfield S. Ireland, to Miss Angeline W. Allen, all of Oxford.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 15th inst., by Rev. W.T. Potter, Mr. Chas. A. Tremain, of East Greene [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Helen M. Root, of Oxford.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 18th inst., by Rev. W.T. Potter, Mr. Willis J. Manwarring, of Oxford, to Miss Anna A. Huntley, of McDonough.

In Norwich [ Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst., by Rev. W. T. Potter, Mr. Frank W. Comstock, of Preston [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Lucy J. Brown, of Norwich.

In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th ins.t, by Rev. Mr. Johnson, Mr. Chas. L. Seeley, to Miss Sarah M. Payne, both of Afton.

Letter from John S. Schenck - Civil War Soldier - 1861

Letter from John S. Schenck - Civil War Soldier

Chenango American, Greene, NY, January 2, 1862

Provost Marshall's Office,
St. Joe, Mo., Dec. 17, 1861

Dear Brother Theodore:  I received your last letter about three weeks ago, but have been so busy in the interim discharging the duties of orderly Sergeant and writing in this office, that I really could not think of home and friends in "old Chenango" before tonight.

Since my last to you, we have had stirring times in St. Joe, after having had a multiplicity of Brigadiers over us the past seven months (Pope, Hurlburt, Sturgis, Adans and Todd).  The veritable Ben M. Prentiss, who commanded at Carlo all summer, has at last come up alive acting Brigadier, and has come down upon the Secesh in this vicinity with a heavy hand.  I believe that I have told you in former letters how the 16th Ill. was the first Regiment from a foreign State, to tread upon the "Sacred Soil" of Ex-Gov. Jackson's domains--after having camped in every town and beside every bridge of importance on the Hannibal and St. Joe R.R., [surrounding] the country 25 miles on each side of the road, driving Jim Green and his 2,500 ragged "bushwharkers" from Northeast Missouri, making long marches during the sultry weather of July, and ague in the meantime raging almost as an epidemic from drinking the water of the stagnant sloughs, and sluggish, muddy streams that intersect the prairies,--I say after all those hardships (though trifling in comparison with the cause) the 16th at last brought up at St. Joe, travel worn, clothes furnished by ourselves, soiled and worn out, features bronzed, and I might say feelings hardened, having received no clothes or pay for five months, hard service.

Here we arrived during the time the battle was raging at Lexington, seventy miles distant.  After resting one night, the Regiment was ordered to march on to Liberty 30 miles from Lexington, to intercept Green with 4,000 men, who was endeavoring to effect a junction with Price. The boys obeyed the order to march, with sincerity.   At "Blue Mills," a few miles from Liberty the 16th and Iowa 3d, who there joined us, came up with Green, strongly posted, in a thicket occupying both [sides] of the road.  At the first fire the artillery horses of the Iowa 3d, were all killed, and many men killed and wounded.  They fell back dragging the guns out of range by hand.  Our Regiment coming up we drove them from their position, but being all mounted they got away with severe loss, and ultimately joined Price before Lexington. We marched on to Liberty and recovered many muskets and sabers and powder, stolen from the Liberty Arsenal last spring. The object of the expedition being accomplished, we returned to St. Joe. 

On arriving here, Col. Smith found orders three days old to continue on to Lexington, but 'twas too late, the brave Mulligan had surrendered.  It would have been of no use, however, if we had gone on; we would only have been outnumbered and taken prisoners with mulligan.  After resting a few days, we commenced throwing up intrenchments on "Telegraph Hill," a point which commended the city and Missouri river.  This was deemed necessary, as a force from Price's victorious army, flushed with their late success, were marching upon us with the avowed purpose of taking St. Joe, and replenishing their scanty Quarter Masters department, from our full stores, but after approaching to within 12 miles their scouts no doubt reported to the reputed 15,000 Southern chivalry, that their force was inadequate to take the 16th, and returned to Price, and commenced their flight towards "Dixie", we remaining in peaceful occupation of this city.  

The 1st of Nov., a great change came over us.  We then received our first pay and clothes from Uncle Sam, having been in service since April.  Then it was that money, in a measure, compensated for previous hardships, and our absence from the dear ones.  So passed the time until the removal of Fremont, and the return of the Federal army from Southwest Missouri.  This gave the suffering members of Price's army a change to scatter Northward along the Western borders, and plunder the Union people in the counties South of us. They finally became so bold and had collected in such numbers, that more energetic measures were necessary.  The 50th, Ill., 39th, Ohio, 25th and 18th Missouri and 52d Ill. were ordered here, and several battalions of Missouri Cavalry, making in all about 7,000 effective men, and Gen. Prentiss to command them.  Activity was soon visible in all the departments.  Hundreds of men were armed with shovel and pick and commenced making a fort inside the intrenchments.  Strict martial law was enforced, and no one allowed to leave the city without a pass.  Rolled cannon from Pittsburg were brought here, and everything in proportion necessary for war.  

On the 12th day of this month, Prentiss, with 2,500 men, well supplied with artillery and Cavalry, started on an expedition south--to [hunt] up a fight.  In the meantime strong pickets have been posted all around the city. 4,000 passes have been given to those men, women and children who could prove themselves loyal.  A Secesh Major, one Captain and several privates have been caught within our lines, and will according to Gen Hallock's general orders be tried as spies; also a mail carrier from Price's army intercepted.  Among the news items, was one that a portion of them would winter in this city and have a dance in "Corby's Hall" on Chirstmas.  

Since Prentiss left, the whole city has been on the qui vive to hear from him.  Last night a courier came from him saying that he had come upon a body of 3,000 men, this side of Lexington, had driven them across the river into Lexington, and was then shelling the town from this side of the river, and was building floats to cross over, the secessionists having the ferry boats on their side. The enemy are rallying fast, and have now from four to six thousand at Lexington. I expect that reinforcements will hurry on to Prentiss' assistance, and hope the remainder of the 16th will go.  We have Winter quarters built for our Regiment inside the works; have a stove in each mess room and are living as comfortable as people generally so. The measles is raging among the camps to a great extent, but only one or two cases have terminated fatally in our Regiment.  Though we have a comfortable station here, the soldiers are impatient for active service.  They think it nonsense to remain idle all winter.  If fighting is to be done we want to do it, finish the whole job as soon as possible and return home. We are very impatient to hear of something being done on the Potomac, and along the coast.

Our gallant Col. (Smith) is loudly denounced by the "Kansas Jay Hawkers" below here, under Jamison and Montgomery, for not permitting them to indulge in their known proclicitires of plundering both Union and Secesh, and liberating negroes.  As soon as the result of Prentiss' expedition is ascertained I will write you agian, in the meantime believe me,

Your aff. brother

John S. Schenck

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John S. Schenck was born about 1840 in Smithville, Chenango Co., NY the son of Martin Schenck.  During the Civil War he served with the 16th Illinois Infantry, achieving the rank of Adjutant.  He survived the war, being mustered out for the final time 8 July 1865.  He died 11 May 1887 and was buried in Spring Forest Cemetery, Binghamton, Broome Co.., NY.

Obituaries (September 22)

Eva Pike Raymond

Died November 29, 1935, McDonough, NY

After a distressing illness of six weeks, Mrs. Eva Raymond passed away Friday, Nov. 29, 1935.  The funeral services were conducted Tuesday afternoon at the farm home by Rev. E.A.R. Macdonald and burial was made in Union cemetery.  Mrs. Raymond was born Nov. 4, 1866, and was twice married.  Her first husband to whom she was married in 1889, was Lester Pike, who died June 6, 1915.  There were two daughters from this marriage, Miss Helen Pike and Mrs. Hazel, wife of Spencer Aldrich.  There are nine grandchildren.  Miss Helen and Mrs. Aldrich and family are the last remaining members in town of the Gilbert Sanford ad the Daniel Pike lines, two prominent families, who were early settlers in town.  On an. 23, 1924, Mrs. Pike married Devillo Raymond, who survives her.  when a young girl Mrs. Raymond was a member of the first confirmation class of Calvary church and has ever remained a loyal member of the church.

The death of Mrs. Eva A. Raymond, 69, wife of Devillo D. Raymond of the town of McDonough, occurred at 9 o'clock Friday night.  Mrs. Raymond had been ill six weeks.  Besides her husband, two daughters survive, Miss Helen M. Pike and Mrs. Spencer Aldrich of Mcdonough and nine grandchildren, Ray and Florence Aldrich of this city Ruth, Irma, Rena, Olive, Harry, Elmer and Eleanor Aldrich all of McDonough.  The funeral service will be held from the family home Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock.  Burial will be made in the McDonough cemetery. Rev. E.A.R. Macdonald will officiate.

Martha C. (Matterson) Radley

Died April 10, 1928

Martha C. Radley died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Floyd Dexter, April 10, 1928, after an illness caused by a shock eight days before.  She was born in the town of Morris [Otsego Co., NY], near Dimock Hollow, on the farm now owned by Jay Wells, October 22, 1843.  She was the youngest of a family of ten children of Oliver Matterson and Lydia Draper.  All have passed on but one sister-in-law, Mrs. Lucina Matterson.  She was married to Davis Radley January 1, 1863, by Rev. Chamberlain, in the house where she died. The Baptist church had always been her place of worship, but never had been baptized until she was 80 years old; since that time had been very happy.  She was ready to go, and all winter wondered why she was left here alone so long.  She leaves to mourn her loss, beside the daughter above mentioned, one grandson, Raymond Dexter of Norwich. She was laid at rest Saturday p.m. beside her husband in Riverside cemetery, Dr. Gifford of New Berlin, officiating.  The bearers were three grand nephews, Leon, Jay, Clifford Wells and one own nephew, Leslie Matterson. The funeral was largely attended by friends and relatives from North Norwich, Norwich, New Berlin, Afton and Sidney.

Lena D.H. Ray

Died October 26, 1940, Norwich, NY

Mrs. Lena D.H. Ray, widow of J. Johnson Ray, who was a son of the late Federal Judge George W. Ray, died at the Chenango Memorial Hospital at 5 o'clock Saturday morning, after a protracted illness.  Mr. Ray, who had been a hospital patient for about 12 weeks, suffered a cerebral hemorrhage, only a few hours before her demise.  The deceased was born in Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY] the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Frank P. Hakes, but had been a resident of Norwich for about 40 years.  She was united in marriage with Mr. Ray 35 years ago.  He died in 1930.  During all of her long residence in this city, Mrs. Ray held a prominent and active part in the civic life of this community.  She was a woman of rare ability and foresight, and her talents were such that she was always in great demand by groups and organizations with which she became affiliated.  She was a highly capable woman, and in whatever she undertook to do people could depend on that task being well and faithfully performed. She was held in the highest respect and admiration by a legion of friends, and her passing will be learned with genuine regret and sorrow.  She will be greatly missed in every walk of life and her activity and talents for good will be cherished by a wide acquaintance and many friends.  Mrs. Ray was a past regent of Capt. John Harris chapter, D.A.R., and was serving in the office of registrar at the time of her death. She also was affiliated with the State Officers Club of the D.A.R.  Mrs. Ray was one of the founders of the Chenango County Red Cross chapter. She and the late H.W. Clarke were the instigators in the formation of this chapter in 1917.  She was elected as its first secretary, an office in which she has seen continuous service since that date, having this week being honored with reelection.  Despite her illness Mrs. Ray displayed much interest in the work of the Red Cross, particularly at these critical times.  Only recently she assisted the other officers in making plans for the annual meeting of the Red Cross held last Wednesday.  Mrs. Ray was a member of the F.V.I.A. and at the time of her demise was serving her 12th year as treasurer of that organization.  She was formerly president of the Chenango Valley Home board and is a former member and secretary of the Norwich Garden Club.  Mrs. Ray is Chenango county's member on the Republican state committee, an office she has held for many years. She was greatly interested in politics and expressed keen regret when her condition did not permit her to leave a hospital bed to go to the polls to register.  For a great many years Mrs. Ray had been a member of the First Congregational church and the various societies connected therewith.  In religious work as in other fields of endeavor, Mrs. Ray was always ready to give a helping hand.  Training which she received in early life was valuable to her in latter years, for she was a woman who possessed much executive ability and her influence and advice was welcome in every group with which she was identified.  In early life she served as stenographer for the late Judge Ray during his several years in Congress and she was secretary of several of those committees of which Judge Ray was chairman.  Although she never served on the official board, Mrs. Ray was greatly interested in child welfare work and lent her aid whenever possible.  In all of the organizations in which she held membership, Mrs. Ray was a worker.  No job or duty she was called upon to execute was neglected, and her gifts and ability were recognized in every circle in which she moved.  Her passing leaves a gap in the civic life of this community which will be difficult to fill.  There servive a son, George W. Ray of Norwich, three grandchildren, Geo. W. Ray, third, Margaret Nicholson Ray and John W. Willmarth of Trenton, N.J., and the following cousins:  A.D. Hakes, Bur and Claude Hakes of Pitcher, Mrs. Howard Shaw of Gilbertsville, Ward Wells of Oneonta and James Wells of Cortland.  Funeral services are to be held at the late home, 123 North Broad street at 2 o'clock  Monday afternoon, Rev. Dr. G. Edger Wolfe, pastor of the Congregational church, will officiate, and interment will be made in Mt. Hope cemetery beside her late husband.

Death Notices

Chenango American, November 7, 1861

In this village [Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult., Mary E. [Cowan], aged 5 years and 2 months.

This lovely bud, so young and fair,

Call'd hence by early doom,

Just came to show howw seet a flower

In Paradise would bloom.

In Washington, D.C., on the 3d inst., Mr. Smith E. Slocum, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co.,  NY

In Columbus, on the 11th ult., of consumption, Uri T. [Holmes], son of Henry Holmes, in the 20th year of his age.