Obituaries (December 20)

Edward Porter

Chenango American, October 30, 1862

In Frederick City, Md., Edward Porter, of Colesville Broome Co., aged 20 years.

Young Porter enlisted in the Windsor co., went out with the Burnside expedition.  He took part in the battle of Roanoke Island; remained there on guard duty until Burnside's return north.  He was wounded in the thigh at South Mountain, had his leg amputated but survived it only four days.  It may be asked what has the Widow Porter done to sustain the Union.  She has given her son!  Yes she has another there to do battle for the flag of his country.  Have we done more.  Shall we complain and grumble for a few paltry dollars in support of the Union.  Let us rather say God sustain the Widow; her son has done his duty, let us do ours.

"Heroic males the country bears,

But daughters give up more than sons;

Flags wave, drums beat, and unawares

You flash your soul out with the guns.

"But we!  we empty heart and home

Of life's life, love; We bear to think

You're gone - to feel you many not come-

To hear the door latch stir and clink,

Yet no more you!--nor sink."

Chester Pope

Died December 7, 1942, Edmeston, NY

Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY]:  Chester Pope, 81, retired carpenter and farmer died Dec. 7, 1942, in his home here, after an illness of several weeks.  He was born in Edmeston, a son of Perry and Sarah Jane Miller Pope, and lived in this village throughout his life.  He was a charter member of Wharton Valley Grange and for many years served as town superintendent of highways. Fifty-five years ago today he married Mary Carleton; who died in 1936.  Surviving is a daughter, Mrs. Floyd Rose. The funeral will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday from the Houk Funeral Home, with burial in Edmeston Union cemetery. The Rev. Winfield Kelley will officiate and members of the Grange will attend in a body.

Charles E. Porter

Died October 16, 1939, Norwich, NY

Charles E. Porter, veteran auctioneer and former Norwich barber,  died suddenly at his home on Locust street at 4:30 Monday afternoon of angina pectoris.  Mr. Porter, who was about to retire from business because of ill health, had been at his auction house on Lackawanna avenue during the early hours of the afternoon.  He returned to his home at 3:45 and complained of severe pains in the heart region.  To Dr. Harry Friedman, who was hurriedly summoned by Mrs. Katherine Spafford, Mr. Porter's housekeeper, the stricken man a sufferer of heart disease remarked "this is my last attack."  Despite all that medical science could do Mr. Porter succumbed a short time later.  For the past two weeks or more Mr. Porter had been feeling better and only last Sunday he went to Oneonta to visit friends.  Mr. Porter had arranged for an auction on Birdsall street this afternoon in his capacity as sales managed, for health did not permit him to "cry" auctions any more.  Mr. Porter was born in New Lisbon, Otsego county, April 12, 1865, but he had been a resident of Norwich for 52 years.  He first came here in October, 1887, and after a year's employment opened his own barber shop in 1888.  He continued that vocation successfully for a period of 32 years.  After 1910, Mr. Porter began to sell real estate, write some insurance and do some general auctioneer work.  In 1920 he opened an auction house on Lackawanna avenue, a business he had followed since.  Only last week he made public announcement that he was making preparations to retire because of ill health.  For 16 years Mr. Porter served the Republican party as city assessor and evidence of the fact he knew the value of real estate is given in his repeated reelection to the office.  Mr. Porter had the distinction of having sold property on every street in the city of Norwich with the exception of one.  He was the builder of six houses on Locust street, the street where he resided and he was the first resident of the street to put down a sidewalk.  Any estimate of the number of auctions Mr. Porter has "cried" would be difficult to make, for his efforts along this line were not confined to Norwich and Chenango county, but he was in great demand in many nearby counties, where his fame had spread.  Mr. Porter was a member of the local Masonic lodge and a frequent visitor of the Masonic Club.  Where he could often be found engaged in a favorite hand of auction bridge.  He never played contract.  There are many residents of Norwich who will learn with deep regret of Mr. Porter's death, and who will extend sympathy to the four daughters and brothers and sister of the deceased.  Mrs. Porter died several years ago.  The four daughters are Miss Gladys Porter, teacher in the Brooklyn schools; Mrs. Willard Olin of Oriskany Falls; Miss Dorothy Porter, teacher of Islip, L.I., and Mrs. Harold Redick, of Syracuse, nurse of Crouse-Irving Hospital.  There also survive a sister, Mrs. Minnie Gardner of Hartwick; two brothers, Abbott Porter of Portlandville and H.O. Porter of Harrisburg, Pa., and several nephews and nieces.  

Death Notices

Chenango American, October 23, 1862

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st inst., Mrs. Lucy Potter, aged 84 years.

In Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY], on the 21st inst., Mrs. Elizabeth A. Silvens, aged 58 years.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., Eugene [Race], only son of Nicholas Race, aged 11 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] on the 18th inst., Mrs. Sarah A. [Marr], wife of George W. Marr, aged 41 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 12th inst., Jane [Van Der Lyn], wife of Gerandus Van Der Lyn, aged 71 years.

In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], on the 11th inst., Mr. Edmund Hayward, of paralysis, aged 60 years.

In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst., of diptheria, Harlan A. [Coville], only son of Joseph A. Coville, aged 11 years.

In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., Miss Roxanna Wood, aged 21 years.

Letter from the NY 114th Infantry - October 1862

Letter from the 114th Regiment

Chenango American, October 9, 1862

On Special Duty
Baltimore, Oct. 6, 1862

Eds. American:  It is troublesome and perplexing to speculate upon things that are hidden from our view by the future.  "Special Correspondents" are apt to think "forward movements" are to be made because they see no reason to prevent, and immediately, through the columns of their "special" papers, long articles on the route of the army, the results and benefits to be secured by such a move, are put forth, and the people who read, await anxiously for the development of their plans until their patience becomes worn out and their confidence in military commanders shaken, if not entirely destroyed.

The policy that once broke up the fine and effective army of Gen. McClellan into separate divisions, under Generals who held different views upon the manner of approaching Richmond, will not again gain a foothold in the Cabinet, and McClellan will probably have the privilege of choosing his own way, and select the time and place for another struggle with rebeldom that may, to him, seem advantageous. There is now, as there has heretofore been, the constant cry of "Why don't McClellan push his advantages?"  and correspondents predict and reporter telegraph startling rumors, and sensation newspapers come out with large headings of "Impending battle!"  and again, as of yore, the public are duped.

There is a host even now fighting a long but terribly sure battle with the enemy--a combatant as remorseless as famine, and as fatally sure of victory--even famine itself, and our General knows that while the rebel army are among the mountains of the Blue Ridge, with only half rations to eat, and poor at that, and scarcely a blanket to keep them from the chilly night air, they are becoming more and more reduced in strength, and their faith in the cause for which they have been compelled to fight, never strong, is completely swept away.

There is yet no change in our regiment, and how near or distant the day when we shall be ordered to move no one can tell.  The daily drill and the monotonous routine of guard duty is becoming "too much of a good thing," and unless we soon have something to vary our every day life, I fear that discontent will be brooded in our camp.  The only thing that seems to interest the "boys" now is the rumor that we were to be brigaded with the 116th N.Y.S.V. and a Connecticut regiment, the number of which has escaped me.

Company E, Capt. MacDonald's company, has lost a member by sickness and death. The name of deceased was Albert Teachout, of West Bainbridge.  He is said to have been in poor health before he enlisted, and the fatigue of drill and guard duty, prostrated him with a fever, and he rapidly declined until death claimed him, another victim of Jeff Davis' Confederacy.

Respectfully, &c,   A.

Marriages (December 19)

Chenango American, October 16, 1862

In New Berlin, on the 7th inst., by Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. Chas. E. Brett, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Celia Lewis, of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango American, April 10, 1862

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., by Warren Gray, Esq., Mr. Daniel Tyrrel, to Miss Mary May, all of this town.

In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th ult., by Rev. A.N. Benedict, Mr. Jesse Inman, to Miss Betsey A. Brewer, both of Plymouth.

In Lincklaen [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult., by Riley Preston, Esq., Mr. Albert H. Burdick, to Miss Laura Mury, both of Lincklaen.

In Hamilton [Madison Co., NY], on the 19th ult., by Rev. M. S. Platt, Mr. George S. Lattimer, to Miss Lois Ryder, both of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th ult., by Rev. John McLiesh, Mr. E.H. Joslyn, to Miss Sarah Banks, all of New Berlin.

Chenango American, October 9, 1862

At the residence of the bride's father, on the evening of the 2d inst., by Rev. Jas. D. Webster, Mr. James A. Skillen, to Miss Lucinda Adams, all of this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY].

Tuesday evening, the 7th inst., by Rev. Ashbel Otis, of Smithville Flatts, Mr. Thos. Lane of Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY] to Miss Martha J. Brown, of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 1st inst., by Rev. A.B. Harvey, Rev. Daniel Ballou, Pastor of the Universalist Church in Oxford, to Miss Betsey M. Webb, of the same place.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 2d inst., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Eli Fredenburgh, to Miss Lucy A. Briggs, both of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult., by Rev. E.W. Allen, Mr. A.D. Harrington, of Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Emma A. [Waldron], eldest daughter of M.N. Wladron of Pharsalia.

In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY] on the 5th inst., by Rev. Mr. Williams, Mr. Eli Merrills, to Miss Mary Wails, all of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

Obituaries (December 18)

Oscar Phelps

Chenango American, October 23, 1862

Oscar Phelps, private, Co. D, 27th Reg., N.Y.V., died of typhoid fever, in the hospital at Philadelphia, August 10th, 1862, aged about 23 years.

It was the writer's privilege to be intimately acquainted with the subject of this notice for several years, having commenced an acquaintance in the schoolroom as teacher and scholar, that ripened into that better feeling--friendship.  Oscar was a faithful scholar and friend, as he was a faithful patriot and soldier. While a student at the Susquehanna Seminary, in Binghamton, he won the esteem and praise of his teachers and associates, by his studiousness and quiet diligence in every pursuit he entered upon.  When the first call for volunteers was given--when first the thrill of just indignation awakened by the insult to the flag at Sumter, flashed through the North, he felt the insult and nobly resolved to avenge it.  Leaving his temporary employment at Port Jervis, Oscar joined his fellow students in Binghamton, and with them went forth, under Capt. Rogers, to the duties and the trials of the camp and the field.  None of that noble band was more ready for duty--none more brave and true than he. The public will remember the praise he received from his officers for gallant conduct at the Chickahominy.  Both publicly and privately he received honor for his noble bearing, there and elsewhere. After undergoing all the hardships and privations attendant upon the occupation of the Peninsula, till the memorable retreat from before Richmond, he was prostrated by fever at Harrison's Landing, about the middle of July, and after two weeks' sickness in camp was taken to Philadelphia, where he died.  Another gallant soldier fallen--another noble friend departed--another immortal sacrifice laid upon the altar of freedom.  But he died as the Christian soldier dies--died as the patriot hero dies; and while we mourn for a friend, we hope for the eternal triumph of universal freedom, for which he fought and fell.    L.R.E.

Lynn A. Phillips

Chenango Telegraph, February 8, 1938

Lynn A. Phillips of 26 Prospect street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], father of former Alderman Albert Phillips, died suddenly at the family home about 6 o 'clock Sunday night, following a heart attack.  Mr. Phillips was taken ill soon after eating his evening meal and expired almost at once.  Dr. Leslie T. Kinney, coroner, was called.  Mr. Phillips was born in Wisconsin 73 years ago, but for a great many years had been a resident of New York state.  He lived in North Norwich until about 16 years ago when he moved to this city. There survive his wife, a son, Albert Phillips, a daughter, Mrs. Pearl Breed and three grandchildren.  Services are to be held at the late home at 1 o'clock Wednesday afternoon, Rev. L.S. Charters officiating. with burial in the North Norwich cemetery.

Gideon Pierce

Died December 31, 1929, Plymouth, NY

The funeral of Gideon Pierce, who died suddenly Tuesday afternoon at the home of Lamott Aldrich in South Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], will be held Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Breese funeral parlors. Rev. N.S. McPherson will officiate and burial will be made in South Plymouth.  Mr. Pierce, who was 49 years of age, had been employed by Mr. Aldrich for some time.  He was apparently in his usual good health, when he was suddenly taken ill and retired.  He passed away a few minutes later, and Dr. E.W. Wilcox, coroner, was called. The latter ordered an autopsy which was performed by Dr. E.F. Gibson and Dr.  J.C. Lee.  It revealed that death was caused by double pneumonia, with a weak heart as a contributing cause. The deceased was born in the town of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], May 3, 1880, the son of Albertus and Angeline Pierce. He leaves a brother, Benjamin Pierce and several nieces and nephews.

Delia Elizabeth (Fuller) Pike

Died October 20, 1925, Norwich, NY

Mrs. Delia Elizabeth Pike died Tuesday after a brief illness with pneumonia at the Chenango Valley Home [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] where she had resided for the past ten years, having entered the home November 29, 1915.  Mrs. Pike was born in Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY] April 27, 1846, and therefore was in the 80th year of her life.  She was a daughter of the late Nathaniel and Almira Pendleton Fuller.  On November 8, 1871, she was united in marriage with S. Nelson Pike in Sherburne.  Some years later they took up their residence in Norwich, Mr. Pike's death occurring here on March 3, 1906. A daughter, Clara Pike Denny, whose death took place several years ago, was for some time the principal in one of the ward schools of this city.  Surviving Mrs. Pike are a brother, Washington Fuller, and a sister, Mrs. Almeda Fuller Crowell, both of Fonda, N.Y.; a nephew, William Irons, of New York city; a grand nephew, Harold L. Keeler, and a grand niece, Morna Mundy, both of Norwich. The funeral services will be held at the Chenango Valley Home Thursday at 2 p.m. the Rev. Louis D. Palmer officiating.  Mrs. Pike was an interested and consistent member of the Broad Street Methodist Episcopal church, attending its services whenever her health would permit.  Those who knew her best appreciated most the fine qualities of her character and the splendid qualifications of her life. She was artistic in temperament and cheerful in her disposition.  Possessed of a literary mind, she was unusually gifted in the composition both of prose and of poetry.  Her writing was always in the bright vein.  Earlier in life she taught in the public schools.  Thus she rounded out a life worth while as wife, mother, intellectual guide and Christian.

Jesse Pike

Norwich Sun, February 8, 1926

Funeral services for Jesse Pike, North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] trapper and hunter, whose frozen body was found Sunday by a party of searchers after he had been absent from home four days, will be held Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock at his home in North Norwich.  Mr. Pike, 65 years old, had often expressed the wish that "when my time comes, I hope it will be out on the runway with the dogs running."  He evidently had his wish, for his body was found out on one of his favorite fox runs, as he had slumped down in death from heart disease.  Last Wednesday morning Pike left his home a mile north of North Norwich on the "middle road," taking two hounds with him.  One of the dogs was his old hound that had been his companion on many a hunting. trip. The other dog was owned by his son-in-law, Carey Whaley, of North Norwich.  Pike planned to hunt across country to the home of his brother, Lewis G. Pike, in Smyrna.  When the younger hound returned to the Pike home Thursday morning nothing was thought about it, and still no alarm was felt when the old dog came back the next day, for it was believed Pike was at the home of his brother.  Lewis Pike, the brother, came to North Norwich Saturday night and reported that he had not seen his brother.  It was too late then to organize a searching party, so at daylight Sunday morning a party started out on the fox trail.  Up one ridge down another and so on they climbed and when just over the top overlooking German Hollow and the home of Ivan Bliss a few feet from the line fence they found Pike's frozen body.  Apparently he had been sitting on one or two stumps or standing under a small tree waiting for his hounds to drive out a fox.  His gun cocked and loaded, ready to fire, lay beside him.  There was a light covering of snow over the body, and in Pike's pocket was the untouched lunch he had brought from home.  Dr. E.W. Wilcox, coroner, gave permission over the telephone for the removal of the body to North Norwich, where it was taken in charge by Charles Atwood of the William Breese company and brought to Norwich.  Dr. Wilcox gave it as his opinion that death was due to heart failure.  Mr. Pike was born on east hill in North Norwich, and was considered a great hunter and trapper.  He was employed on highway work in summer, but he made good money hunting and trapping game in season.  He is survived by a widow, and a daughter, Mrs. Carey Whaley, who with her husband and four boys, Kenneth, Edwin, Alvin and Carey, lived at the Pike home.  Besides the brother mentioned another brother, John W. Pike, resides in Fayetteville and a sister, Mrs. Mary Cox, whose home is in Montrose, Pa., is at present in North Norwich caring for Mrs. S.J. Titus.

Death Notices

Chenango American, October 16, 1862

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst., Elizabeth E. [Corbin], daughter of John and Lavina Corbin, aged 20 years.

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst., Mr. Eber Dibbly, aged 83 years.

In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., Mr. T. Chapman Brown, aged 29 years.

In Pitcher Springs [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., Mr. Alonzo Griggs, of Co. I, 114th Reg., N.Y.S.V., aged 23 years.

In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 18th, Sarah [Beach], daughter of Wm. J. and Maria Beach, aged 12 years.

Obituaries (December 17)

Henrietta Sargent

South New Berlin Bee, January 3, 1914

White Store:  Mrs. Fred Shampang received the sad news of the death of her grandmother, Mrs. Henrietta Sargent, of  Morris [Otsego Co., NY].  Her death occurred Dec. 22.  Just eight years ago Dec. 28 Mr. Sargent died, near Morris. Deceased was 74 years old Sept. 22.  She is survived by seven children, thirteen great-grandchildren, also half sisters, Mrs. John Light of Morris, Mrs. John Brownson, Mrs. Frank Wightman, Mrs. Chas. Gibson.  Funeral was held from her daughter's home in Morris, Wednesday.  Burial in the Morris cemetery.

Ettie Pickles

South New Berlin Bee, January 3, 1914

Mrs. Ettie Pickles, wife of Henry Pickles, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], died at the home of the Sampson brothers, in the Wheeler district, east hill, Wednesday afternoon, Dec. 31, 1913, aged 55 years.  She came there a few days previous to her death, on account of poor health. She is survived by a husband, two sons, two sisters and two brothers.  Funeral will occur on Friday, and the body will be placed in the vault at Norwich.

George H. Campbell

Died May 8, 1939, Dunedin, FL

Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY]:  News has been received here of the death of George H. Campbell, 77, in Florida, Monday afternoon at 4 o'clock following a short illness.  Mr. Campbell was spending the winter and spring in the south.  A former Chenango County supervisor and a widely known farmer, news of his passing is a shock to many friends. The body will be brought to Sherburne where funeral services will be held Saturday.

Tampa Bay Times, St. Petersburg, FL, May 9, 1939

Clearwater:  George H. Campbell, 77, winter visitor from Sherburne, N.Y., died at a Dunedin hospital at 4 p.m. yesterday after a short illness.  This was his fifth winter in Clearwater.  He was a member of the local shuffleboard club. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Marion Campbell, and one cousin, Frank Rutherford, Dunedin.  Funeral services will be held at 8 o'clock tonight at Moss chapel in Clearwater.  The body will be sent to Sherburne for burial on Saturday.

Death Notices

Chenango American, April 16, 1862

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY] on the 4th inst., of apoplexy, Mr. John B. Wheeler, aged 55 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 31t ult., Emma [Rood], youngest daughter of Calvin and Electa Rood, aged 1 year and 3 days.

Chenango American, April 10, 1862

In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult., Helon [Rood], daughter of Henry H. and lovina Rood, aged 19 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult., Emma V. [Parker] daugher of Mrs. Sally M. Parker, aged 16 years.

In Butternuts [Otsego Co., NY], on the 30th ult., Lilly L. [Tyler], only daughter and youngest child of Orville and Sarah Tyler, aged 5 years, 6 months and 15 days.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], residence in Lincklaen [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., Samuel May Phetteplace, aged 22 years.

At the residence of her brother-in-law, Levi Shepard, in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., of consumption, Mrs. Catharine M. Williams, aged 45 years, 5 months and 19 days.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., after a brief illness, Mr. Isaac Crosby, aged 25 years.

In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th ult., Mary C. [Kenyon], daughter of Lewis and Clara Kenyon, aged 1 year and 6 months.

In Truxton, Cortland Co., on the 31st ult, Dr. John Miller, aged about 90 years.

In Washington City, on the 23d ult, Caroline Augusta [McKim], eldest child of Dr. S.A.H. and Caroline McKim, aged 6 years.

Chenango American, October 9, 1862

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., Mary E. [Marvin], wife of Alonzo Marvin, aged 22 years.

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY] on the 8th isn't., Mary [Corbin], youngest daughter of John Corbin, aged about 14 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., Mr. John M. Gurnsey, aged 57 years.

In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., Geo. T., [Randall], son of Stephen and Sophia Randall, aged 13 months.

In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 6th, Mrs. Clarissa [Hyde], widow of Thomas Hyde, aged 62 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., of paralysis, Sophia P. [Cox], wife of S.H. Cox, aged 57 years.

Letter from 27th Regiment - September 1862

Letter from Norman P. Brown of the 27th Regiment

Chenango American, October 9, 1862

Head Quarters Slocum's Division
Barkersvile, MD, Sept. 29, 1862

Eds. American:  Thinking yourselves and our friends would like to hear from the 27th Regiment, I drop you a few lines. After marching and fighting through Virginia, we embarked at Newport News on board the steamer John Brooks (about the 21st of August) bound for Aquia Creek, which place we reached on the morning of the 24th of Aug., where we were ordered to proceed to Alexandria, where we arrived at 3 P.M. same day.  After laying there a day or two we started for Centreville, and on the 30th arrived on the field of battle, a little too late for fighting, but in time to prevent stragglers from leaving the front, where they were very much needed; and on the 31st we took the front and remained there all day and night. On the morning of Sept. 1st we fell back in good order to Centreville, and from there back to Fairfax Seminary, near Alexandria, where we remained for a few days, when we left for Poolsville Maryland, where the enemy were said to be in large force.

After we started for Poolsville, the rebels had changed their position farther to the right, which of course changed our movements, which were to march to the right of Poolsville and follow up the enemy, which we did, until we engaged them on Sunday the 14th ult (At Crampton Gap near Burketsville) where one of the most severe battles of this war was fought. The enemy had a very strong position on the Mountain with plenty of Artillery.  Our, (Gen. Slocum's) division, charged up a very steep and craggy Mountain side, and after about three hours severe fighting, succeeded in completely routing them from their position, and drove them over the Mountain, capturing a large number of prisoners, and several pieces of artillery. This brilliant affair, charging up such a hill, and fighting at such a disadvantage against superior numbers, without the assistance of Artillery or Cavalry, has made for Gen. Slocum's Division a name long to be remembered.  The portion of this Division which was in the heaviest part of the engagement was the 2d Brigade consisting of the 27th and 16th N.Y. Volunteers, 5th Maine and 96th Penn., Regiments. This Brigade was commanded by Col. Joseph J. Bartlett, of the 27th N.Y., acting Brigadier General, whose brave and gallant conduct won him the highest esteem and praise of both officers and men. The gallant 27th was the first on the field, being deployed as skirmishers and supported by the balance of the Brigade, together with Gen. Newton's, and the Jersey Brigades (who did nobly, and whose loss was considerable) and succeeded as I said before, in routing and driving the enemy.  Night then set in and closed the scene of that day's bloody work.  The 27th went into the fight in good order, and have added another to their many brave deeds, and old Broome may well be proud of the 27th, as no troops could have behaved better; many of them fell on the field, and many more are wounded.  I am not able to give you a correct list at this time, of the killed and wounded of the several Regiments, as our wounded were taken to different Hospitals, and it is impossible to find them at present; but I learn that the loss of the Division in 514, but what proportion to each Brigade I cannot say.

On Wednesday morning, (17th) after a rest of two days, at 7 o'clock, we formed in line, and marched on to the extreme right of the battle field, where we were held as a reserve and did not get into the fight. We remained in that position until Friday morning, when we started in pursuit of the retreating enemy, who was flying before us towards the river. They threw away their arms, spiked their guns, and swam the river, and are now entirely out of Maryland.  In passing over the battle field of the 17th, a terrible sight met one's gaze.  Heaps upon heaps of dead rebels (though many had been buried) and men busy in carrying off the wounded.  Our loss at that battle was very heavy, but the enemy's loss much have been much larger.  I have not heard any estimate made of their loss, but have heard that 14,000 would cover the loss of the Union Army. All has been quiet for the past week.  What we are to do, or where we are going when we again move, is yet unknown. Rumor says we go to Hagerstown from here.  But all are willing to wait and trust "Little Mc" to make his arrangements for us.

Yours &c,  Norman P. Brown

http://www.historyofwar.org/articles/battles_cramptons_gap.html

Marriages (December 16)

Hamm - Mundy

Norwich Sun, August 6, 1932

At seventy-thirty o'clock Saturday morning, August 6, Miss Morna Alice Mundey and F. Rowland Hamm, both of this city, were united in marriage at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. A.R. Mundey of Smyrna, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], by the Rev. William W. Sullivan, pastor of the Smyrna Baptist church. The bride, attractively gowned in powder blue crepe, carried an arm bouquet of yellow snapdragons. The ceremony was performed before an altar of evergreens banked with baskets of white and yellow flowers.  Immediately after the ceremony the wedding breakfast was served, following which Mr. and Mrs. Hamm left for a motor trip through western New York. The guests were Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hamm of Woods Corners, Mr. and Mrs. C.D. Jaquay of Columbus, N.Y., Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Howard and Miss Harriet A. Howard of Smyrna.  Upon their return, Mr. and Mrs. Hamm will reside at 54 Cortland street, Norwich.

Phetteplace - Bennett

Married June 19, 1941, Norwich, NY

The residence of Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Bennett of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] was the scene of an attractive wedding Thursday night, June 19 at 9 o'clock when their daughter, Miss Norma Bennett was united in marriage with Richard Phetteplace, son of Mr. and Mrs. Allen Phetteplace of Norwich.  The marriage was solemnized by Rev. R.L. Matthews, pastor of the Calvary Baptist church.  During the service John Thompson sang "Oh Promise Me."  His accompanist was Mrs. Alta Backus who also played the traditional wedding marches.  Mrs. Backus and Mr. Thompson are cousins of the bride.  Coming down a circular stairway, the bride was met by her father who gave her in marriage. The wedding ceremony took place under an archway in the Bennett home, attractive with ferns, mountain laurel and pink and white peonies.  Old fashioned fireplaces in the spacious dining and living rooms were banked with the same kind of flowers.  The bride was attended by Miss Gertrude Phetteplace as maid of honor with Miss Margaret Neish and Miss Wilma Brown as bridesmaids. Serving the groom as best man was Roland Haughtatling with Donald Phetteplace and Leon Aldrich as ushers. The bride was lovely in a gown of white silk embroidered marquisette with a sweetheart neckline, fitted bodice and bouffant skirt. She carried an arm bouquet of pink rosebuds showered with blue forget-me-nots and white fever fern. She wore a tiara of the same flowers.  Her only jewelry was a strand of pearls and a small gold pink borrowed from her maid of honor.  Miss Phetteplace, maid of honor wore a dress of aqua silk brocade. she carried an interesting arm bouquet of pink and white peonies showered with Sweet William and mountain laurel.  Miss Neish was dressed in blue lace and net while the gown of Miss Brown, the other bridesmaid, was of yellow organdy. They carried bouquets of mountain laurel, pink and white Sweet William and white peonies. The mother of the bride chose a navy sheer dress with white accessories.  Her corsage was of white roses. The mother of the groom was dressed in green sheer.  Her corsage was made of tea roses.  following the wedding ceremony a reception was held with 50 relatives and friends of the couple attending. Following their wedding trip to Ogdensburg, Canada and the Thousand Islands, Mr. and Mrs. Phetteplace will reside in their newly furnished apartment on the East River road.

Six Couples Are Guests of Honor at Reception

December 1942

Six couples who have observed their golden wedding anniversary were guests of honor Wednesday  night at an informal reception complimenting them at the Broad Street Methodist church [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].  In the group were Mr. and Mrs. M.D. Aldrich, Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Phillips, Mr. and Mrs. A.L. Weeden, Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Colegrove, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur E. Halbert and Mr. and Mrs. Milton Steward.  All are members of that church.  Headed by the pastor and his wife, Dr. and Mrs. W. Gray Jones who were facetiously congratulated on their anniversary, all of the couples who have been married more than 50 years appeared in the receiving line.  Program of the evening included selections by Mrs. Halbert, Elmer Weeks, Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Rounds and Mrs. Eugene Kirkby. Appropriate remarks to the occasion were pronounced by the pastor, Dr. Jones, in his address.  Refreshments were served, Mrs. L.F. Hotchkin, Mrs. W. Gray Jones, Mrs. Lynn Peterson and Mrs. Sumner Benington poured. The delightful and unusual event was under the auspices of the Woman's Society of the Methodist church of which Mrs. Stewart is president.  In behalf of the honored guests Mr. Aldrich voiced thanks and appreciation to the Woman's Society for the well appointed affair.  Mrs. Kirkby who arranged the program for the reception played the bridal march as each of the six brides went to the serving table and cut a large bridal cake.  Materials from the dresses the brides wore at their weddings were on display.  Each of the brides received a corsage. Pictures were taken of the group.

Benedict - Holcomb

South New Berlin Bee, January 3, 1914

A pretty home wedding was celebrated at the home of Mr. and Mrs. C.E. Holcomb at Tunnell [Broome Co., NY] on Thursday of last week, when their daughter, Hazel M. [Holcomb] was united in marriage to Archie W. Benedict of Port Crane [Broome Co., NY]. The ceremony was performed by Rev. E.H. Patterson of Vestal Center.  Only the immediate relatives of the contracting parties were present.  Mr. and Mrs. Benedict will be at home to their friends, in Port Crane after January 1st.  -- Afton Enterprise.

Marriage notices

Chenango American, October 2, 1862

In New York, on the 16th ult., by Rev. Dr. Tyng, Hon. Adsburn Birdsall of Binghamton, to Eliza R. Montgomery, daughter of A.G. Montgomery, Esq., of New York.

In Triangle [Broome Co., NY], Mr. Jerome Harvey, of Potter county, Pa., to Miss Cyntha M. Green.

At the Exchange Hotel, Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on the 13th ult., by Rev. Arthur T. Pierson, Mr. Rufus J. Cornish, of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], to Mrs. Mary J. Eastwood, of the same place.

At the Rogers House, Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY], on the 22d ult., by Rev. Samuel Johnson, Mr. Charles B. Wylie to Miss Ellen Cornish, both of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY].

Obituaries (December 15)

Louisa Eliza (Laduo/Ladne) Phetteplace

Died October 24, 1912, New Berlin, NY

Mrs. John Phetteplace died at her home on Genesee street in this village Thursday, October 24, 1912, aged 67 years, 5 months, 26 days.  She had been ill for about a year with arteriosclerosis.  Her maiden name was Louisa Eliza Laduo [sic] and was born at Dover, Dutchess county, a daughter of Alfred Ladue and Esther Cooper, his wife.  Most of her life had been passed in this county, at Norwich and for the past ten or twelve years in this town.  It was at Norwich on Nov. 24, 1870 that she was married to Mr. Phetteplace, who survives her, with three children, Mrs. Josephine Hollenbeck of Kenwood, Arthur Phettepalce of Norwich, and Mrs. Ida Smith of this village. She was a good wife and kind mother, quiet and contented in her home life, and intensely interested in the welfare of her family.--Gazette

Sarah I. Philley

Chenango Telegraph, April 25, 1941

The death of Sarah I. Philley, widow of William H. Philley, occurred at 1:20 Thursday afternoon at the home of her son, Fred T. Philley, 30 Division street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], following an extended period of ill health.

The funeral of Mrs. Sarah I. Philley was held at the Breese Funeral home at 2 o'clock Saturday afternoon, with Rev. L.S. Charters officiating.  Interment was made in Mt. Hope cemetery [Norwich, NY].  Acting as bearers were Ivan Harrison, Wilson Harrison, Raymond Smith, Myron Dennison, Ward Shapley and Ira Watson, all nephews of the deceased.

Lettie Phillips

Died April 6, 1927, New Berlin, NY

Lettie Phillips, youngest daughter of Harris Phillips and Caroline Bowdish Phillips passed away at her home in this village [New Berlin, Chenango Co., NY] April 6, 1927, after an illness of only ten days duration.  Lettie Phillips was born in South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] January 22, 1864 and her entire life had been spent in this vicinity.  She was quiet and unassuming in her life and very devoted to the loved ones of her family circle. She was always a faithful attendant of the Baptist church and interested in its activities.  Miss Philips was held in high esteem by all who knew her and had many friends. She is survived by one sister, Estella Phillips, to whom the sympathy of all their friends goes out.  Funeral services were held at the home, Saturday, April 9th, Rev. M.R. Weaver officiating.  He spoke words of helpfulness and consolation from the text, "And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of Hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels."  Malachi 3:17.

Ralph Pickens

Died November 20, 1935, Morris, NY

Ralph Pickens, who resided above Morris near Pickens' pond, died at the family home Wednesday evening, November 20, 1935, at 6:30 o'clock from the effects of pneumonia.  Ralph Pickens, oldest son of Albert and May (Youmans) Pickens, was born in Morris [Otsego Co., NY] September 29, 1903.  Being unqualified for the actual duties of life, he always remained at home, where he was tenderly cared for by his parents, brothers and sisters, by whom he will be greatly missed.  He contracted a severe cold, which terminated in pneumonia.  Immediate surviving relatives are the parents; six brothers, Earl, Walter, Harold, Harry, James and Kenneth Pickens; and two sisters, Mrs. Stanley Foote and Mrs. Robert Stafford, all of whom reside in Morris.  Funeral services, conducted by Rev. F.G. Leonard of the Universalist church, were held at the family home Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock.  Interment was in the new part of Hillington cemetery.

Adelia Adelaide (Sergeant) Sage Pike

Died November 10, 1926, Morris, NY

Mrs. Adelia Sage Pike died at her home on East Side in this village Nov. 10, 1926. She was nearly 88 years of age.  Although she had not been very strong for a year past, she has been comfortably well up to Wednesday, Oct. 27 when she was confined to her bed.  It was thought she would soon recover, but she slowly failed in strength and passed away very quietly at 12:30 Wednesday morning.  She leaves four children, Adolphus Sage of N.Y. City, Mrs. Jane Camp of this place, Mrs. Gertrude Gibson of Norwich, N.Y., and Mrs. Lottie Pike of Los Angeles, Call.  In addition to these she leaves eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.  Funeral services will be held at the Baptist church Friday at 2 p.m., Nov. 12.  Interment will be in the family lot in Riverside cemetery.  Adelia Adelaid Sergeant was born April 4, 1839 on the farm on the west side of the Unadilla river opposite the Bailey flats. The old house, now long since gone to decay, stood in the clump of maple trees now seen on the west side of the road where the highway crosses the RR track. She was the daughter of Hiram Sergeant and his wife, Myranda, daughter of Charles Bailey.

Hiram Sergeant was a son of Samuel [Sergeant] who with his brother Thomas came from Boston about 1798 and became pioneer settlers in the valley. Thomas settled on the farm now owned by Linn Camp [in 1926] and this farm has been in possession of some descendant of the Sergeant family ever since.  Samuel came here a single man and went to work for Enoch Marvin, a pioneer in the valley.  Marvin then occupied the farm referred to above as the birthplace of Adelia Sergeant.  Later, Samuel Sergeant married Marvin's daughter Catherine [Marvin] and bought the old homestead and lived and died there, leaving the farm to his son Hiram.  In 1849, when Adelia was ten years old, her mother died and the home was broken up. Adelia went to live with her aunt Rhoda Sergeant, wife of Stephen Bailey Sr., and during the next four years was permitted to go to school which, with two years schooling before this time, constituted the sum of her formal education.  When Adelia was fourteen she went out to earn her own living and worked in the homes of neighboring farmers for seventy-five cents per week.  Later on she received a little more for her services, the highest wages being $1.50 per week the year she was eighteen years old. The writer has heard her tell of the frugality and economy with which she provided the silk dress and flower-trimmed bonnet for her wedding in the autumn of 1858.  In 1857 she united with the Baptist church of this place and has remained a steadfast and faithful member for the seventy eventful years that have intervened.

She was married to Gilbert S. Sage Nov. 17, 1858.  She was 19 and Gilbert 22.  They bought the farm on which Linn Camp now resides and there her family of six children were born.  Gilbert died in 1871 and Adelia with her children came to the home of Gilbert's mother, Deborah Holmes Sage in the house where she has lived with her daughter Jane Camp for many years.  In 1892, her children all having married and left home, she was married to Ensign M. Pike of Norwich who resided with her in the old home here until his recent death.

Adelia Sergeant Sage Pike has lived nearly ninety years in this community. She has seen it develop from its original log cabins and timbered hills to comfortable modern homes and cultivated farms. She has lived through two great wars in which her own loved ones, with those of her neighbors, gave their lives for their country . She has brought up a family no one of which has ever heard from her lips a harsh work, or a word of scolding or ill temper.  Left a widow at thirty-two, young and beautiful, she refused known advantageous overtures of marriage and sacrificed the most precious years of her life to her children. When her children were in school she took the deepest interest in their studies. With only the simplest elements of a common school education at her command she studied grammar with her children at home and surpassed all of them in the mastery of that subject.  In the same way she gained a good knowledge of geography and history and of much in the fields of literature and the fine arts. She was especially fond of poetry and during the last thirty years of her life had made an almost endless collection of choice poems which she arranged from year to year in neat scrap book form. She was fond of music and taught all of her little ones to sing before they were seven years of age as she said her mother had taught her before. The writer can hardly be blamed for calling her an uncommon mother and a remarkable woman for he owes about all that has been worth while in his life to the inspiration of that mother.  It is difficult to say how much one owes in life to one's ancestors.  But it is generally conceded that distinguished ancestors give more promise to future generations than Hotentot ancestors could do. Adelia Adelaid Sergeant had a long line of noteworthy ancestors.  More than a dozen distinguished ministers, two governors of states and a large number of magistrates and other civil officials graced her family tree. Through her grandmother Catherine Marvin she is credited with a recorded line of ancestry in Europe running back for more than a thousand years and through her great grandmother Tracey, she finds authoritative records tracing her lineage direct to Edward the first of England, to Henry II of France and to one of the middle age Emperors of Austria. But it was not the royal blood of kings but the royal blood of worth that ran strongest in her veins.    S.

Death Notices

Chenango American, October 2, 1862

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., Lester Grosvenor [Reynolds], infant son of John C. and Catharine W. Reynolds, aged 7 months.

At the residence of S.S. Breed, in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th ult., suddenly, Miss Patty Randall, aged 91.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th ult., Thomas Francis [Milner], twin son of Thomas and Charlotte Milner, aged 10 months.

In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th ult., by falling from a ladder, Mr. Joe Slater, aged 72 years.

In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st ult., Frances S. [Freeman], son of Simon and Phebe Freeman, aged 29 yrs.