Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, August 1876 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, August 10, 1876

Marriages

HEBBARD - DYE:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], August 2d, by Rev. J.K. Peck, Mr. Frank L. Hebbard to Miss Mary Dye.

BROWNELL - NASH:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], July 27th, by Rev. E.C. Brown, Mr. Nathan E. Brownell to Miss Carrie M. Nash all of Earlville.

Guilford Chenango Co. NY:  Matrimony flourishes notwithstanding the hot weather.  Barrett Jewell is no longer the boy he was, for there is two of him.  Barnum Phipps realizes the joy and solace there is in having a wife to come tripping o'er the meadows green to meet him, when returning from his daily toil.  And soon our legal limb will demonstrate that there is a blind side, even to a lawyer, by becoming a Benedict.  And so, wags the world.

Deaths

DAVIS:  At the County House, in Preston [Chenango Co. NY], August 2d, Mrs. Catharine C. Davis, aged about 55 years, from Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

ALLENDORF:  in New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] August 4th, suddenly, Mr. Charles Allendorf, son-in-law of Hosea Dimmick, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

Our New Berlin correspondent mentions the sudden death of Charles Allendorf, of that place, who was seized with a severe pain in the stomach, on Friday morning last, while working in the hayfield, and died in the evening of that day.

Charles Allendorf, only son of William Allendorf, Esq., died on Friday, August 4th, after a few hours illness. While working in the field at 10 A.M., he was seized with a severe pain in his stomach, and although medical aid was immediately summoned, rapidly grew worse, and expired at 8 P.M.

WATTS:  In Elyssian Fields, Harrison Co. Texas, July 8th, Mrs. Lucy Watts, aged 74 years.

LAKIEHER:  Suddenly, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], August 7th, Frankie [Lakieher], son of Frank Lakieher, aged 13 months.

Frankie, aged thirteen months, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Lakieher, boarders at the Palmer House in this village, fell from a front window in their room, in the third story of the building, between seven and eight o'clock on Monday morning last, striking upon the plank walk, a distance of some thirty feet below.  The fall was witnessed by several in the vicinity who were horror stricken, and the limp and apparently lifeless body was taken up and carried into the hotel parlor, when it was found that life still remained. Dr Avery was called, who found that one side of the head was crushed, which with other injuries must prove fatal. The unconscious little sufferer survived its fall about half an hour. The parents are almost strangers in town, having removed to this place from Ithaca [Tompkins Co. NY] a few weeks since, Mr. Lakieher being employed in the cigar shop of Schorn & Follett. They have the sympathies of the community in this their sudden and fearful bereavement. The remains were interred in the Catholic cemetery on Tuesday afternoon.

FOSTER:  In this village [Norwich Chenango Co. NY], August 5th, Mr. Thomas Foster, aged 27 years.

Our readers will recollect the account published two months since of the fearful runaway of Joseph Arnold's team, on Broad Street June 6th, and the injuries sustained by Thomas Foster, a young man engaged in driving Ralph Wilbur's cart, with which the runaway team collided, throwing him out and bruising his head badly.  For some weeks Foster lay apparently at the point of death, partially unconscious and his eyesight gone, but at last he rallied.  His strength returned slowly, and his eyesight was so much restored that he was enabled to distinguish person's and objects.  Something like two weeks since he walked some distance from his home and upon his return complained of a severe pain in his head, attributing it to the excessive heat.  From that time he continued to fail, inflammation of the brain having set in, and he died on Saturday evening last.  He leaves a wife and one child, in dependent circumstances.

HAYES:  Suddenly, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], August 5th, Mr. James Hayes, aged 73 years.

The community was startled on Saturday morning last, by the announcement that James Hayes, an old and much esteemed resident of this village, was early that morning found dead in his bed.  Mr. Hayes had for several months been in poor health, and was evidently gradually failing, yet his friends did not anticipate that his end was so near.  He had nearly reached his seventy-fourth year, and during his long life he has been a model of industry and integrity.  Unassuming in his manner, pleasing in his intercourse with all, and scrupulously honest, he had won the confidence and respect of all classes.  who sympathize with his daughter, the only surviving member of the family, his wife having died several years since.  His funeral was largely attended on Sunday afternoon, Rev. D.E. Loveridge officiating. deceased was a brother of E.T. Hayes, Esq.

COLBURN:  In our last we mentioned the severe illness of Miss Carrie Colburn, daughter of Mr. A.E. Colburn, of this town, and we are now called to the sad duty of noticing her death, which took place a few days afterward.  Miss Colburn was engaged in teaching the summer school in this place [Guilford, Chenango Co. NY], when stricken down by the relentless hand of disease, which after a duration of six weeks terminated fatally.  In the capacity of teacher, she gave universal satisfaction, and won many friends.  Her funeral was largely attended at her father's residence. The services were conducted by Rev. J.G. Eckman of Norwich.

TICKNOR:  A daughter of the late Mrs. Nancy Ticknor aged about twelve years, set her clothes on fire while making a fire in the stove, and was so badly burned that she died Wednesday morning. The accident was rendered doubly sad by the fact that her father is dead, and that her mother drowned herself last spring while under a temporary aberration of mind. Two children are left, one of whom is under ten years of age. [Broome Co. NY]

BURGESS:  Mrs. Moreau Burgess of Marathon [Cortland Co. NY], met with a fatal accident on Sunday last, from a runaway, while making preparations to attend the funeral of a relative, a few miles distant, accompanied by Burgess Squires. The lady had taken a seat in the carriage, when Mr. Squires concluded to put a fly net upon the ears of his horse, a young and spirited animal.  In doing so, he was obliged to remove the headstall partially, when the horse made a sudden spring and ran up the street.  Mr. Squires clung to the horse's head until he was thrown violently against a tree, receiving considerable injury. The horse continued at a furious rate of speed, turned to cross the river bridge, the carriage striking the abutment, throwing Mrs. Burgess upon the bed of the river below, a distance of twenty or thirty feet. She was taken up in an insensible condition, but soon regained consciousness for a few moments. She lingered several hours before death ensued.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, August 1876 (continued)

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, August 2, 1876

Marriage

They came from the East and from the West, from the North and from the South to the number of one hundred and over to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Geo. W. Root, and they brought of the handiwork of the workers of glass, molded with representations of the Centennial buildings; and of the workers of silver; and the products of the home of yankeedom, both useful and ornamental; and of the makers of wood and cloth, whereupon to rest the weary body and seat the tired frame.

After visiting a while, baseball and croquet was mentioned, and all who wished to engage in these outdoor recreations repaired to a suitable place and proceeded to enjoy themselves.  The game of ball passed off without any accidents to speak of.  Mr. H.M. had his finger slightly twisted and Mr. B.'s jaw did not match just right until about supper time, and further deponent saith not.

About the time the game of ball was finished, we heard a sound very much like a dinner horn, whereupon there was a general stampede for the house where a scene met our eyes in the way of eatables that fairly made our mouths water; but of these will say no more, to see was to admire, to enjoy was to eat.

In the evening, the young folks of the neighborhood brought in their presents and by their youth, beauty and vivacity helped to while away a very pleasant evening, interspersed with music, more eatables, ice cream, lemonade, etc., that young lads and lassies know just how to enjoy.

After a lively game or two all departed to their various homes, to think and perhaps dream of the very pleasant time they had had, and we hope no night noises disturbed those dreams.

To the host and hostess, we would make our best bow and return thanks for the kind and courteous manner in which we were entertained, and may they long enjoy the many tokens of friendship received upon this happy occasion.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, August 3, 1876

Death

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], July 25th, Mary E. [Smith], daughter of Daniel and Caroline Peck, and wife of Jas. B. Smith, aged 27 years and 8 months.

For a long time, she was a patient sufferer, bearing her afflictions without a murmur, and when the time drew near for her to depart to a better world, she bade adieu to parents, husband and friends, expressing a sweet trust in Jesus, and went out from her beautiful home on earth to one bright and changeless above.  Tokens of her love and skill, adorn many homes of her friends, and she lives with her works, fragrant and blessed in the memory of all who knew her.

New Berlin Gazette, New Berlin, NY, August 5, 1876

News Item

Meeker Hill:  Mr. W. DeForest of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], celebrated his 81st birthday by visiting the place where he was born on Meeker hill, in Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY], on Monday last, July 31st. The land is now owned by William G. Hall, who chanced to be upon the premises and pointed out to Mr. DeForest the exact spot where his father's house stood.  He also stated to Mr. Hall that he celebrated his birthday at this place 41 years ago and took a chestnut -?- that his father had put between the logs of the home with him and had a cane turned out of it that is handsomely ornamental and which he keeps in his bureau drawer.  He also informed Mr. Hall that when a young man he carried his aunt, Olive Hall, to a ball on horseback and, as was the custom int hose days, she rode behind him on the same horse.  He made an agreement to visit her the next Sunday evening, but before that time arrived, he had been drafted and was at Sackett's Harbor.  He said that when he was a boy his father sent him to mill on horseback, and in returning, it being dark, he got lost in the woods, pulled off his bags, hitched his horse to a tree and slept "like a pig" all night.  He also said that he and Gideon DeForest, who lived about one mile above, went to help Mr. Meeker butcher (a sour neighbor) and on his returning home after dark, having a piece of meat in his hand the wolves scented and chased him home.  When asked if he should have thrown away his meat if the wolves had taken hold of him, he said, "No, not as long as he had a butcher knife in his hand."

We should have been pleased to have a good long talk with "Uncle DeForest" knowing that we could have gained much valuable information in regard to the early history of this locality.  We learned that there is but a few weeks difference in the ages of Mr. DeForest and our full citizen Mr. Welcome Arnold, and that when boys they often played together when their playground was a different looking spot from that occupied for the same purpose by the boys of today.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, August 5, 1876

Death

CARPENTER:  In Cleveland Ohio on the 28th ult. Martin D. Carpenter, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].

Historic Sketch - Settlement of the Town of New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY

 Historic Sketch - Settlement of the Town of New Berlin, Chenango County, NY

By John Hyde

New Berlin Gazette, July 22, 1876

Daniel Schribner was one of the first emigrants who settled in the 16th township.  He came with his family into the town in 1790 and settled on a lot on the -?- side of the Unadilla River and opposite the place called Indian Fields, and near the celebrated sheet of water called Shacktown Pond, and  a Jew who had a tract of land called the Jew's Patent, had laid out a city in embryo adjoining the pond which project had it been carried into execution would have made Mr. Scribner's location an important situation in process of time, being on the opposite bank of the river.  But the Jew died and the city advanced no farther in the process of civilization than to become a cow pasture.

Mr. Scribner built a large and commodious log house on a high piece of ground, a short distance from the river, commanding a fine view of the valley up and down the river, and the scenery on the other side.  He kept a tavern several years.  The 16th township at that time was part of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] and town meetings and elections were held at his house part of the time and at Amasa Meads or Hascal Ransfords taverns on the Chenango River at other times.  Mr. Scribner was an industrious, prudent farmer and with the help of his two sons, Samuel [Schribner] and Gamaliel [Schribner], who were nearly grown up, he soon cleared up his farm.

Neighbors were "few and far between" in those days but were kind and friendly.  Among the many inconveniences attendant upon and fully realized by the first settlers was the difficulty of procuring their corn ground into meal, the nearest grist mill being at a far-off distance up the Susquehanna River, and no road but water communication to the mill. To lessen the burden of this domestic grain grinding necessity the neighbors united together and brought their bags of grain to Mr. Scribner's house.  A canoe, dug out of an immense pine tree was duly launched into the Unadilla River and the grists put on board.

Two men, though sometimes only one, took charge of the cargo and away they sped down the crooked Unadilla River into the Susquehanna, and up that river to the grist mill, situated on Oake's creek about two miles from its mouth, where it empties into the Susquehanna River. This creek is the outlet of Schuyler's Lake, and this mill was erected in 1790.  The voyage to and back from the grist grinding expedition took about a week and sometimes longer. In fair weather the voyage was pleasant sailing along the river current under the branches of the overhanging forest trees and, when could be seen on the distant hill side, the antlered deer sporting in their native wilds with their young fawns, or the white lake gulls floating in the air winging their flight from one lake to another, and cheering on their peculiar sounding voices, flocks of wild ducks might be seen in the coves swimming about heedless of the passing canoe, for as yet they had not learned the danger and inhumanity of man. But sometimes adverse weather met the inland mariners and compelled them to take shelter on the shore during the dark and tempestuous night.  Then might be heard the mutter growling of the wolf, and other wild beasts sounded discordant notes on the unwilling ear and too near to permit quiet sleep to the weary travelers.  But escaping "the perils of flood and field" the inhabitants were made glad by the safe arrival of provisions to revive their half-famished families when the voyage was of a protracted length of two weeks duration, as sometimes happened.

Incidents sometimes occurred among the early settlers partaking of the ludicrous in the development as well as difficult and dangerous in the performance.  An instance of the kind took place on Doctor Dan Foote's farm, about two miles as the river runs below Mr. Scribner's.  Doctor Dan Foote was one of the first settlers, an amiable man, a good neighbor and skillful in his profession, and was possessed of a strong and determined resolution, well calculated to meet and surmount the difficulties and dangers of a frontier and any jeopardy come how it might.

At considerable expense and trouble, he had become the owner of a valuable porker, an animal detested by the Jews but liked by Christians, as well as certain savage roamers of the forest.  This porker was installed in a tenement with a nice litter of pigs almost full grown.  A dense swamp was on one side of the pen and a high steep hill on the other.  This pig family, on one eventful summer's day, gave the alarm that a savage foe had broken in upon them by boisterous loud squealing signs of distress.  It was a favorable opportunity for the pilferer.  The Doctor and his men, Esquire Marvin and Elisha Marvin were absent in a distant hayfield to work and none but women left to guard the premises. The women on hearing the commotion went out to discover the cause and soon found that a huge black bear, the monarch of the forest, who in right of his forest law, had seized and taken possession of one of the best members of the hog family and was in the very act of pulling the unwilling member out of the pen.  The signal horn was immediately blown but before the expected aid arrived the ravenous prowler had dragged his bleeding victim away up the mountain path and into the sheltering woods where undisturbed he could feed on swine flesh, his favorite food, at his leisure. but the avengers were on his track and found him in his lair before he had finished his dinner.

The doctor came armed with a shotgun and immediately discharged it at the bear. As the gun was fired, the doctor's dog rushed in, and the bear pulled him in under. Doctor Foote then struck the bear with his unloaded gun to save the dog. The bear, good at gymnastic exercises, warded off the blow and hauled under Doctor Foote.

Elisha Marvin came to the rescue and was put under, Esquire Marvin followed in to help and shared like fate with the rest.  All under by the supreme strength of the bear.  So far, the "wager of battle" between civilized man and brute force in regard to the question of title to the hog appeared to be in favor of the captor and the bear be allowed to finish his dinner without further interruption. The dog in the confusion had extricated himself and ingloriously fled howling home, covered with blood.  In the meanwhile, the bear had his three assailants down and apparently at his mercy, but Dr. Foote managed to get his pocketknife out, and with one hand and teeth to open it, his other hand being confined, and with a direct and straight edge of a practical surgeon, struck one vigorous blow aimed at the heart.  

The blow was fatal.  The old bear arose off his wounded assailants, left them, staggered down the hill a few rods and fell dead.  Civilized arts of war were victorious over brute force. When the dog arrived home covered with wounds and blood, the women, anxious for the fate of their friends, sent a young man by the  name of Franklin to ascertain, who met the bear in the midst of its last struggle in the agonies of death, and as the bear fell and began to roll downhill, the messenger turned and fled back, supposing the bear to be in pursuit of him and told the women that the men were all dead. He was then sent to ask Elder Camp, who lived on the other side of the river to come over and help them. The young man, when he came to the bank of the river, the canoe being on the other side, yelled to the Elder and told his errand, and said that there were four men dead, Dr. Foote, Esquire Marvin, Elisha Marvin and myself all killed by a bear. Stronger minds than this boy had, have conceived more irrational things by illusion of the imagination than this boy did when he included himself among the number killed because he was chased by a dead bear.

Soon after Elder Camp came over to assist in performing the sad duty the livng owe to the dead, the supposed dead men arrived home from the battlefield somewhat disfigured by the casualties of war, blood stained by wounds, limbs torn and scratched, clothes rent, fingers bitten but all safe from serious danger.

They received the congratulations of friends for the narrow escape and much rejoicing was had over the carcass of the grim, old dead bear, who, while living, had been the pest and terror to the whole neighborhood, as much as was the wolf killed by "old Pat" of Revolutionary memory.  And for this noble, hazardous and perilous undertaking of Dr. Dan Foote, he deserves to go down to posterity with as much credit for killing the ferocious bear as did Gen. Putnam for killing the wolf.  Let their names be associated in the narration and the stories of the wolf and the bear be told on the same page in the future schoolbook editions.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, August 3, 1876

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, August 3, 1876

Deaths

PIKE:  In King Settlement [Chenango Co. NY], July 31st, Phebe T. Pike, Aged 85 years.

COLBURN:  The funeral of Miss Carrie Colburn was attended at the residence of her father, July 19th.  A large concourse of people from all parts of the town, showed their respect for the deceased and sympathy for surviving friends by following the beautiful clay to its last resting place.  Rev. J.G. Eckman, preached the funeral sermon, Rev. E.P. Eldridge made the prayer. The youthful friends with whom she had mingled so recently, bore the precious burden from the hearse to the grave, while fair young girls in white, strewed the casket with flowers, fit emblems of her who slept the long sleep of death.

____________________________

NEWELL:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], on Sunday July 30th, Horace Newell, aged 79 years.

In its appropriate place will be found the announcement of the death of Horace Newell of North Norwich, which occurred at his home on Sunday evening after a brief illness of but one week, caused by paralysis.  Mr. Newell had reached the advanced age of 78 years, most of which, if not all, have been passed within the limits of this county.  He was a pleasant, genial old gentleman, always respected and esteemed by those who knew him for his sterling honesty and worth.  He was for many years a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and his funeral was attempted by Rev. B. B. Carruth of that denomination on Tuesday last, and the remains were interred in the cemetery at Smyrna where his first two wives had preceded him.  Some fifteen years since he married Miss Phebe Cahoon, youngest sister of Stephen Cahoon of this village with whom he has since lived pleasantly and happily and who now survives him. Three sons also survive him one of whom lives at Earlville, Horace Newell who is now Ass't Superintendent on the Chenango Canal.

______________________________

ALLEN:  In Philadelphia at the residence of her sister, Emily L. Allen, youngest daughter of Hon. S.P. Allen, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], aged 21 years.

The community was shocked on Friday evening last by the sad intelligence that Miss Emily Allen was dead.  But few had heard of her illness and her death was wholly unexpected to all.  She had gone to spend the summer with her sister, Mrs. Alfred Smith, at Germantown, Philadelphia, and to visit the Centennial exhibition. The intense heat oppressed her exceedingly and she frequently said she could not endure it much longer - she must go home unless a change of weather came soon.  She attended the exhibition for the last time on Tuesday the 11th inst, and was very much prostrated by the excessive heat.  Soon after this she was attacked with brain fever of which she died on Thursday the 20th, after an illness of only five days.  Her mother and sisters although watching over her constantly and noting every change, were entirely unaware of the approach of the dread messenger until a few moments before she breathed her last.  This sudden termination of her disease, unlooked for alike by physicians and friends, left no opportunity to summon to her bedside her father who was anxiously awaiting tidings concerning her.

Emily was the youngest child of S.P. Allen, long known to the public as editor of the Rochester Democrat.  she was born in Rochester and received most of her education there.  Four years ago, she came to Geneseo to finish her course of study in the Normal school here, and after two years graduated with the confidence and respect of all.  Immediately upon her graduation she was selected to teach in the Normal school - a fact which of itself witnesses to her ability and character, - and she has ever since maintained her position and performed her work with increasing acceptableness.

Very early in life she united with the Brick Church in Rochester and has maintained an earnest Christian life ever since.  And so has passed away one for whom our whole community mourns. She will be missed around the family altar.  She will be missed from her accustomed seat among the "sweet singers."  She will be missed in many a social group and the young men and young women of Geneseo will miss her ready and efficient aid in planning and executing schemes for innocent pleasure and enjoyment.  Her companions will miss her bodily presence, but the remembrance of her integrity and Christian character will ever be influential in restraining them from wrong and in leading them to understand the value of a Christian life.

By none will she be missed more than by those who were accustomed to meet her daily in her chosen employment.  The pleasant greeting, the willing hand, the open heart and the earnest life they cannot forget, and deeply rooted in the memory of pupils and teachers are her numberless deeds of kindness and her words of inspiration and encouragement and as this sad intelligence reaches them the unbidden tears will flow for their departed friend.

The ways of an All-wise Providence are inscrutable to us, and so we can only say, "Thy will be done," but it is sad to see one cut down in the morning of life who gave such promise of usefulness and of a brilliant future. The entire community, we know, mourns her loss and extends its sympathy to the bereaved parents.  Livingston Republican

Miss Allen will be remembered by our citizens as the youngest daughter of Hon. S.P. Allen, for four years the associate of the writer in the editorship of the Telegraph.  Her many friends here will bear cheerful evidence of the truthfulness of the above sketch and unite with the Telegraph in sympathy to the stricken parents in their great bereavement.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, August 1876

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, August 3, 1876

Marriages

JEWELL - MUDGE:  At the Spaulding House, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], July 30th, by Rev. H.M. Crydenwise, Mr. Barrott V. Jewell of Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Augusta Mudge, of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY].

FARGO - VAUGHAN:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], July 23d, by Rev. W.G Queal, Mr. Robert B. Fargo of Sherburne, to Miss Abine H. Vaughan, of Sherburne Four Corners.

Deaths

BRUSHELL:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], July 28th, Mr. Henry F. Brushell, son of Amos Brushell, Jr., aged 27 years.

PIKE:  In King's Settlement [Chenango Co. NY], July 31st, Mrs. Phebe T. Pike, aged 85 years.

COLBURN:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], July 17th, Miss Carrie Colburn, eldest daughter of Amasa and Mariett Colburn, aged 18 years.

PHELPS:  In DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY], July 25th, Nettie [Phelps], wife of Almer H. Phelps, of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY].  Her remains were taken to New Berlin and buried in St. Andrew's Cemetery on the 28th.

FOOT:  In Aylmer, C.W., July 20th, Dr. Ezra Foot, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] aged 54 years.

Dr. Ezra Foot, a brother of Mr. Asa Foot of this town, died at his residence in Aylmer, C.W. [Canada] on Thursday last.  Dr. Foot was a former resident of this town and removed to Aylmer about twenty-eight years ago, where he commenced the practice of medicine and built up a successful practice and resided there until his death.

TERRELL:  In Buffalo [Erie Co. NY], July 26th, Mrs. Esther Terrell, aged 72 years, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

GOODWIN:  "Uncle Nat" Goodwin is dead.  He published a Free-Soil paper in Cortland [Cortland Co. NY] in 1845 and upwards of twenty years ago was appointed Doorkeeper of the Assembly, which position, with a similar one in the Senate, he held for many years.  For the past six or eight years he has served as a trusted messenger in the United States Treasury office in the city of New York where he died a few days since, in the seventy-third year of his age.  He was an honest man and a faithful officer.

BROWN:  It is stated that Joshua Brown who died in Brookfield [Madison Co. NY] recently at the age of seventy-six, was never out of town but once, when he went ot Sherburne.  He left property worth $35,000.

MUGRIDGE:  Charles Mugridge a printer employed in the Binghamton Times office [Broome Co. NY], was drowned while bathing in the Susquehanna River in that city on Thursday last.  He was a single man, aged Twenty-eight years.

TANNER:  Eddie Tanner, aged eight years of Marathon [Cortland Co. NY], was so badly injured by being struck by a runaway team, on the 22d ult that he died eight hours afterwards of internal injuries.

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DAVIS:  Suddenly, in Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], July 29th, Mr. John Davis, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], aged 38 years.

A young man named John Davis, aged thirty-eight years, a resident of this village, was found dead in a berry lot on the farm of his cousin, Charles Davis, in the town of Guilford, on Saturday afternoon last.  It appears that young Davis had been helping his cousin upon the farm for a few weeks past, and on Saturday afternoon went with Mrs. Davis to pick black raspberries in a lot some half a mile from the dwelling.  After a time, the parties became separated and supposing that John had returned to the house, or would do so, Mrs. Davis proceeded homeward.  As evening approached and the young man did not return, the family began to wonder at it, and later, with apprehension that something was wrong, a search was made through the field, and about seven o'clock his lifeless body was found.  He had placed his berry pail upon a stump nearby and as it is thought, feeling unwell, had sat or fallen down where he died, and where his body was found lying with his face downward.  It is stated that another party who were picking berries in the vicinity, saw the pail sitting upon the stump, about four o'clock, but paid no attention to it, not suspecting anything wrong.  This, with other circumstances, indicates that he had been dead some time before his body was discovered.

Deceased had for some time complained of a bad feeling in his head, although on the morning preceding his death, he expressed himself as feeling much better than usual.  It is supposed that his death was caused by apoplexy.  No inquest was deemed necessary.  On Sunday his remains were brought to this village, and on Monday afternoon buried from the residence of his brother-in-law, Nelson Aylesworth.  Young Davis was a single man, of good habits, and was well known in this village, where he had many friends, particularly among the young people, by whom he will be missed.

News Item

Neither married nor Dead

Two weeks since, the Cortland Democrat published the obituary of Chauncey D. McElroy of Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], whose death from heart disease was announced as having taken place June 13th.  A similar notice was published about the same time in the Newburgh Journal, McElroy having recently taught school at Blooming Grove, in that vicinity.  About the same time, the papers of this County were publishing a notice of his marriage.  These notices were received by the several editors through the mail and by them published in good faith. Since that time a card over Mr. McElroy's signature has been published in which he says he is not married, and the card bears date June 16th.  We conclude that he is not dead.  Who has been guilty of this contemptible imposition upon the press is what the publishers would be glad to know.  Each probably has his own opinion as to the authorship of the brilliant joke, we have ours.

Historic Sketch, Settlement of New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY

 Historic Sketch of the Settlement of the Town of New Berlin

by John Hyde

New Berlin Gazette, New Berlin, NY, July 29, 1876

The first emigrants who commenced a settlement in the town of New Berlin were often times sorely troubled for provisions before they were able to clear up their wild lands and raise crops for bread.  Many times, had the mother been obliged to send her children supperless to their bed while the husband and after was absent, traveling the forest path to a distant settlement in quest of food to supply the family wants.

Having located his lot, the first important business for the emigrant is to build a log house, a family residence.  For this purpose he selects a place near a spring of water or a running brook and clears it off ready on which to erect his dwelling house and to be composed of materials furnished by his own labor.  With his woodman's axe, he cuts down trees of suitable size and of proper length intended for the dimensions of the building and a sufficient number for the height.  these logs are to form the body of the building.  Poles of suitable size and length are cut for the rafters.  Elm bark supply the place of shingles and basswood logs, split into slabs furnish the floor.

All being ready, the neighbors are invited to a log house raising. The main building is to be made of logs packed upon each other and the ends interlocked by a dovetail process of construction belonging to the ingenuity of a back woodsman in the art of house building.

The building is made without the aid of the square and compass or any other of the carpenter's tools, and without iron or glass and like Solomon's temple, "there was neither hammer nor any tool of iron (except the axe) heard in the house while it was building."  The roof is made of bark pealed from the elms and tied on to the rafters with strings made of the inner rind of the bark and the floor is made of split basswood slabs.

A "housewarming" is considered proper for the introduction of the newcomers into their new abode and to the more intimate acquaintance of their neighbors.  A pastime called a "log rolling bee" was not infrequent amongst the early settlers.  After the "summer follow" has been prepared, the trees felled and cut into log rolling length, and the brush heaps burned, the neighbors are invited to a log rolling bee.  On the day appointed they come with their ox teams, the logs are drawn and rolled into heaps and the united strength of kind neighbors accomplish a work which could not have been performed by one man alone. An agricultural log rolling of former days suited the outward man and his clothes; political log rolling of the present day benefits the inner man and his reputation.

At these social gatherings of the roundabout settlers, mirth and merriment mingled with the labors of the day, and cheerful and national songs enlivened the workmen, resounding in freedoms choicest notes and loud echoing through the woods might be heard, "Hail Columbia, happy, happy land." In the primitive society of New Berlin, the divine command "Love thy neighbor as thou lovest thyself," seems to have bene literally fulfiller in the mutual assistance rendered to each other.

Raising of crops on new land was simple and the tools of husbanddry were equally so.  In planting corn, the turf was turned up with a hoe, kernels of corn tucked under, and the turf turned back, and no farther labor was required but to keep the -?- weeds down until the corn harvest.  Grain was sowed and harrowed in with a two pronged, wooden tooth barrow, and harvested with a reaper sickle threshed with a flail and winnowed with a fan. Grass was mowed by a scythe, raked by hand and drawn on a sled to the stack or barn. Stumps and roots prevented the plough to be used in fixing the land for crops or other machines for gathering them.

Flax was raised for summer clothing for the family for there were no cotton factories.  Frocks of sheep furnished wool for winter garments.  Wives and daughters were good spinners and made fine linen out of flax, and cloth out of the tow, and flannel out of wool which the clothier manufactured into cloth, some for women's wear, and some for men's wear. This kind of family clothing furnished a better protection against the summer's heat or winter's cold than can be had in this age of boasted improvement. Children were allowed to tumble about in coarse, loose dress, unshackled by ge-gaw wrappings, enjoying the freeness of their limbs; no steel spring carriages with stuffed seats to weaken the muscles and enfeeble the body. Girls and boys were early taught in the school of industry, requiring habits of price and economy.  Success in later life was the result.

In that early age of New Berlin's history, the tailer, with his yard stick, shears, needles, amble pressboard, and goose, went from house to house to make up that winter's clothing for the family. The shoemaker did not forget his vocation and with his knife, wax, awls, strap, paste and bench went his rounds to mend, patch and make up the family shoes and boots.  And while the emigrants were engaged in clearing up their lands and providing food and clothing for their families they were not unmindful that tother duties were encumbered on them to perform in aid of civilization and the maintenance of social relations.

Common schools were founded, school districts formed, log schoolhouses provided, and school masters employed during the winter months and school mistresses during the summer season to teach the common school branches of education. The parents paid the teachers wage in proportion to the number of scholars they sent to school.  This early attention to common school education by the first settlers of New Berlin has been the direct productive agent in the growth and prosperity of the people.

In the arrangement for the general welfare, religion was not overlooked. Religious meetings were held in schoolhouses, in barns or in dwelling houses, as convenience directed. The ministers were usually supported by contributions, seldom by salaries.  Occasionally there might appear one, who, like the apostles of old, preached without money and without price, and his doctrine was considered to be orthodox and sound in the case of Christianity.  Missionaries sometimes found their way into the infant settlements and at such times large, gatherings from every quarter of the neighborhood came forth to hear the glad tidings of the gospel preached and with a sincerity and honestly of purpose equal to the well-dressed congregations of the present time.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, July 1876 (concluded)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, July 27, 1876

Deaths

RICHER:  Otselic center, Chenango Co. NY:  Mr. Fred Richer's little girl about three years of age, died the night of the 15th inst.  His wife was buried four weeks previous.

A little daughter of Fred Richers, died suddenly of Cholera infantum the 18th inst. [Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, July 27, 1876]

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, July 27, 1876

Marriage

The Pitcher Register [Chenango Co. NY] of last week publishes a card form Chauncey D. McElroy of that place who pronounces the marriage notice published in the County papers, in which his name appears as one of the parties, a hoax.  He treats the matter philosophically, however, and does not fly into a passion, as we have known people to do under similar circumstances.  We will be most happy to make the amende honorable, so far as we are concerned, by publishing a notice of his marriage when that event does occur, and the sooner the better, as we venture to say that so good natured a gentleman as he proves himself to be, deserves a good wife.

Deaths

Rev. Father Oderich Vogt died at the residence of the Franciscan Fathers in Utica [Oneida Co. NY] on Monday morning of typhoid fever.  He was born at Czarnikan, Posen, Dec. 3, 1831.  He was a highly educated and talented clergyman speaking the Polish, English, Latin and Italian languages.  His death is regarded as a great loss to his denomination.

Delaware County, NY:  On Saturday afternoon of last week, Mr. John Kinmouth while approaching his barn on a load of hay, fell from the load to the ground, so falling as to break his neck.  His death was almost instantaneous.  Mr. Kinmouth was a Scotchman by birth, a citizen of this county for about forty years.  His age was 65 years.  Few men had to a greater extent the respect and confidence of the community.  He was County Superintendent of the poor for several years.

'Mr. Andrew Daggett died suddenly at Oneida [Oneida Co. NY] on Sunday morning of last week, Mr. Daggett had been slightly indisposed for two or three days, though not us severely as to interfere with his being about the village up to and during Saturday evening.  On Sunday morning he arose as usual and was about previous to the morning meal of which he partook.  Arising from the breakfast table he removed his chair to another room and had either taken his seat or was in the act of sitting down, when he was heard to fall.  Members of the family immediately sprang to ascertain the difficulty, when he was found lying upon his face on the floor.  Being raised up he gave two or three gasps and expired.  he was an active businessman and much esteemed by the community.

Rev. Dean W. Smith, President and proprietor of Dean College in Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] died at his home in that city on Saturday evening last, of paralysis, after an illness of one week.  Deceased was father-in-law of Rev. R.A. Paterson, the revivalist, and former pastor of the Baptist Chruch in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].  The death of Mr. Smith will not interfere with the opening of the school in September, Rev.Mr. Paterson and wife assuming charge of the institution.

__________________________

BOYCE:  At his home in New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] on Friday the 21st inst, Christopher Boyce  in the 61st year of his age.

Mr. Boyce was stricken with paralysis in March last, an account of which we published in the Telegraph at the time.  Soon after, he began to improve and was in a short time able to move about and converse easily. About the first of June he visited this village and was warmly greeted by many of his old friends who were thus encouraged as to his ultimate recovery and the announcement of his death in the midst of his manhood and usefulness a sad disappointment not only to friends [in his immediate community] but throughout the county as well.

Mr. Boyce was born in Spencer, Worcester Co., Mass., in 1815 and in 1831 came with his parents to Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] and soon learned his trade.  In 1836 he moved to New Berlin and after working at his trade for one-year began farming in connection with it.  In 1841 he purchased the farm upon the Great Brook where he has ever since lived.  In 1841 he married Miss Betsy Corbin, of Sherburne, who survives him.  He also leaves four children as follows:  Frank Boyce who owns a farm nearby the homestead, Lion L. Boyce, of this village, a young and rising practicing lawyer, Mrs. Susan Amsden, wife of Joseph Amsden, of Columbus, and Wallie, a young son of sixteen.

Mr. Boyce notwithstanding he followed the quiet profession of a farmer was a positive man, possessed of fixed principles and the spirit to advocate them.  In his political action he was always a Republican and firmly and constantly advocated the principles of that party. In business matters he was always honest and upright and everyone who knew him placed implicit confidence in his word. In social life he was genial and companionable always ready to extend a hand of welcome to all who entered his hospitable homestead.  He was often honored by his fellow townsmen with positions of trust and never failed in the performance of the duty delving upon him.  In county politics he also took a prominent part and was relied upon as one of the strong men of the party in the fierce contests it has passed through.  But he has passed away and we cheerfully pay our tribute to his worth and excellence.

His funeral was attended from the Methodist church at South New Berlin on Sunday afternoon, Rev. W.H. Barnard preached a forcible and impressive sermon.  Rev. Mr. Chamberlin also united in the services of the occasion, and the funeral cortege embraced hundreds of friends who were anxious to mete out a word of praise and recognition to the departed.

All will miss Mr. Boyce from the circle to which he has been accustomed to move. We shall miss his pleasant countenance and familiar voice from our sanctum.  Society will miss him.  May his mantle worthily fall upon his sons, and each one of them strive to emulate the example and virtues of the father.  In common with the entire community, we would tender our sympathies to the family of the deceased in their great bereavement.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, July 26, 1876

Death

A young lady by the name of Smith was drowned while bathing in the river at New Berlin Centre [Chenango Co. NY] on Saturday last.  she was an excellent swimmer and amused herself and friends by swimming in deep water, and not heeding their entreaties, remained in a long time and suddenly sank.  Her parents resided some 15 miles from the scene of the accident.  Gazette

Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 27, 1876

Death

In Morrisville, N.Y. [Madison Co.], July 16th, Mrs. Ann Josephine [Spring][ wife of Wallace B. Spring, aged 31 years and 9 months.

New Berlin Gazette, New Berlin, NY, july 29, 1876

Death

The remains of Mrs. Phelps wife of Almer H. Phelps were brought home for interment on Wednesday last. Mrs. Phelps had for the past few weeks been under a physician's care in Cortland County where she died. The bereaved ones have the sympathy of this community. The funeral services were held on Friday afternoon.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, July 1876 (continued)

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 20, 1876

Marriages

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], June 21st by Rev. D.E. Leveridge, Mr. George S. Merritt to Miss Alta Bonney, all of Norwich.

In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], July 3d, by Rev. Lyman Wright, Mr. Oliver B. Cook of North Colesville [Broome Co. NY], to Miss Ella A. Stevens, of Binghamton.

In Binghamton Cal., June 28th, at the residence of Mr. J. Tuck, by the Rev. S. Snyder of Dixon, Mr. Albert B Caniff, formerly of this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Anna C. Engle of Paw Paw, Mich.

Deaths

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], July 9th, Amelia B. [Wales], aged 2 years, 6 months and 14 days, daughter of Geo. Wales.

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], July 11th, Mr. Jay Dailey, aged 65 years.

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], July 9th, Mrs. Ira B. Payne, aged about 60 years.

In Owego, July 11, Clara [Saxton] wife of Edward A Saxton and daughter of Alfred Thurston, of Whitney's Point [Broome Co. NY], aged 34 years.

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], July 17th, Fannie [Smith], daughter of Elias Smith, aged 1 month and 4 days.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, July 22, 1876

Deaths

PRATT:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 16th inst. Joshua B. [Pratt] son of Dwight C. and Mary B. Pratt, aged 11 months and 2 days.

BABCOCK:  Elmore Babcock son of Alonzo Babcock of East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], was a member of company L., which was with Geo. Custer and he fell in the fight with the Indians.  He enlisted about a year ago and was about 21 years of age.

___________________________

Biographical Notice of Dr. F.W. Root

By F.D. Beebe, M.D. of Hamilton, N.Y.

Franklin Washington Root was born in the town of Poultney, Rutland Co. Vt., on the 29th day of January 1820.  HIs father, Ashley Root, was one of the old residents of Poultney, having emigrated from Benson, Vt., shortly after his marriage.  Franklin W. Root was the youngest of six children.  He was educated at Poultney Seminary.  He studied medicine with Dr. Mitchell of Poultney and attended medical lectures and graduated at the medical college at Castleton, Vt., at the age of 24 years.  He was married shortly before receiving his diploma and in December following moved to New Woodstock, Madison County, N.Y., and commenced the practice of medicine.  In 1847, he removed to East Hamilton, N.Y. [Madison Co.], taking the practice and office of David T. Foot, M.D.  Dr. Root continued to live in the same place until February 1875, when during his absence from home attending the State Medical Society at Albany, his house and office was entirely destroyed by fire.  He then moved to Hamilton village and continued practice as before.  He was admitted as a member of the Madison County Medical Society on the 8th day of July 1862, was elected delegate from this society to the N.Y. State Society in July 1870, and was made eligible to permanent membership in February 1874.  In January 1852, Dr. Root was stricken with acute articular rheumatism, from which he suffered severely for several months and from the effects of which he never seemed to have fully recovered.  He seemed to be aware that he was not entirely to recover from this disease and that it would probably be the cause of his death or at least shorten his life.  On the 23rd day of April 1876, he was taken with a violent chill which was accompanied with severe pain in the head and shoulders. The Doctor at first thought his old enemy neuralgia and rheumatism was all he had to contend with, but very soon symptoms of typhomalarial fever was developed, proving fatal the 8th day of May 1876.

Dr. Root leaves a wife and one daughter, the wife of Charles W. Underhill, Esq., of Hamilton, N.Y.  Dr. Root was a large, muscular man, of fine physique, and commanding presence.  As a man, those who knew him best are well aware and of course not disposed to deny that he was strong, hearty and persistent in his attachments and on the other hand as determined and earnest in his prejudices.  His friends he always attracted and those for whom he entertained a dislike he uniformly repelled.  One distinctive characteristic was the power possessed by him of infusing with almost absolute faith, confidence in all he might recommend. These qualifications which ought to be possessed by all in this the noblest of all professions, our own, except only that of the minister of Christ, winning confidence in order to help, it is conceded that our friend in a good degree possessed.

At the Annual Meeting of the Madison County Medical Society, held at Earlville, July 11th, 1876, the following resolutions of respect to the memory of F.W. Root, M.D. were unanimously adopted:

Whereas: It has pleased Divine Providence to remove from earth our late brother Dr. F.W. Root of Hamilton, therefore,

Resolved: That we bow in humble reverence to His visitation and receive it with sincere regart.

Resolved: That we cherish the memory of our deceased brother as that of a faithful and upright member of our profession and an honorable and conscientious citizen.

Resolved:  That we sympathize with Dr. Root's family in the great bereavement and loss which they have sustained.

Resolved: That a copy of these resolutions be sent to the family of the deceased and to the County papers.

A.L. Saunders, M.D.; F.D. Beebe, M.D.; W.M. Carpenter, M.D.; L.A. Van Wagner, Sec.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, July 22, 1876

Marriage

PHIPPS - LAMPHERE:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], July 4th, 1876, by Rev. D.C. Haynes, Mr. D.B. Phipps to Miss Edna Lamphere, both of Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY].

Death

Mr. Joseph Throp, who has lived in this town [Nineveh, Broome Co. NY] for the past sixty years, died June 18th, aged 88 years.  He had lived with his wife, who is still living, sixty-four years, and he was dressed for the grave in the identical shirt that he was married in sixty-four years since.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, July 1876 (continued)

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, July 20, 1876

Marriages

Last Monday morning, Mrs. Charlotte Bennett was in high expectation of that day being the bride of Mr. Miles Brown of Taylor [Cortland Co. NY].  But alas!  how soon her fond hopes were blasted.  There seems to have been a slight misunderstanding about the appointed time for the wedding to take place.  Mr. Brown came to town Monday morning, as he says, with the express intention of taking Mrs. Bennett back home with him, not as Mrs. Brown, but that she might by staying a few days get acquainted with his family and then decide whether she was willing to make the place her home.  Imagine, if you can the disappointment she must have felt, after she had sold her fowls, rented her house, packed her goods, and sat, robed in her best gown, momentarily expected the arrival of Mr. Brown, after which would follow the tying of the nuptial knot.  Mr. Brown comes, dressed in his everyday attire, and after the accustomed salutes she asked who he was going to have tie the knot.  He, of course said, no one yet, which led to an explanation followed by some words which resulted in "bustin" the whole affair.  Mr. Brown returned home with deep sorrow depicted upon his countenance, feeling that he had been euchured in this little game.  She unpacked her goods with a heavy heart, thinking how vain are the promises of man.  Pitcher against the world for trouble about marrying.  Register

Last Monday the 10th, Mr. and Mrs. L.D. Thompson celebrated the fortieth anniversary of their wedding.  Nearly seventy of their relatives and invited guests were present.  Their house was trimmed in festoons of American flags which were all distributed to the younger members of the company at the close of the day. A table was spread in the "new barn" to accommodate the entire party and laden with a sumptuous dinner.  A good number of gifts were bestowed on the worthy couple in grateful acknowledgement of the event and as a testimonial of personal regard.  As they sat at the head of the table, they seemed in the fullest vigor, with the prospect before them of many years.  Among the guests outside of the relatives were Aunt Robie Moore, aged 96, Revs. J. Allen and George Foster.  All but three years of their married life have been spent where they now live. The original part of their farm was purchased second from the government with little or no improvements on it. Beginning without a dollar, their course illustrates what can be done with industry and a prudent economy; having now one of the best farms in Center Otselic. Their eldest son, The Rev. George L. Thompson, stationed for the last three years at New Haven, Conn., is with his family spending a vacation at his father's. One interesting fact in connection is there has not been a death in the family during the forty years.  

Deaths

Jessie Tyler, a lovely and beautiful child of three years, daughter of Delos Tyler, died at Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY], of dropsy on the brain, on the 10 inst.  A number of sympathizing friends attended the body to its burial in the cemetery at South New Berlin. The sweet child, only survived for a little time on this unfriendly earth, to woo her parents to her home in heaven.

A young man named Andrew Nix was killed at the R.R. Depot in Prebble [Cortland Co. NY], July 5th.  He was attempting to get into a moving train, fell under and was crushed.

______________________________

WESCOTT:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on Friday the 14th inst., Charles Wescott aged 83 years.

Under its proper head in today's Telegraph will be found the announcement of the death of Charles Wescott, another of our veteran pioneers, at the advanced age of eighty-three years.  He came to Norwich from Killingsly, Conn., when a mere boy, and with one or two trifling exceptions resided here until his death.  He was passionately fond of music, the fife being his favorite instrument, and the man must be full three score and ten who can remember when Mr. Wescott did not play the fife at training or other public doings where music was needed.  He joined a military organization when quite young, and always maintained his connection with the military until he was four score years of age when he was dropped from the rolls.  His regret at this summary treatment was so deep that by permission of the Adjutant General of the State, he was again enlisted and was borne upon the rolls as a musician until the day of his death.  He was one of the oldest, if not the very oldest Mason in the county, being a member of the first lodge formed within its limits.  His funeral was attended with military honors by Company E, 103d Regt., Captain Sholes, and by a large number of the Masonic brotherhood.  Rev. D.E. Loveridge conducting the services at the deceased's residence in the East part of the town.  "Uncle Charley" was a most universal favorite and though his long life had been an active one, we never heard of his having an enemy and do not believe he ever had one.

Deceased leaves a wife somewhat younger in years surviving him, also a daughter, the wife of E.T. Hayes, Esq., of this village, also three sons, Dr. G.R. Westcott, Paul L. of this village ad Charles, of California.  His death was the result of a stroke of paralysis received a few weeks since.

News Item

Spirit Rappings at Mt. Upton

Perhaps in rebuke of the unbelieving multitude, who honestly believe that there is no "spirit" more to be dreaded and feared than the ardent.  Our parsonage has been visited for months past by what seemed to be veritable spirit rappings.  Of all places it the world, why the spirits should select the parsonage was a wonder.  For nearly half a century the old parsonage has been the home of the very best of people but the "rat tat tat" came as regularly as ever was heard.  This was about three months ago. The Rev. E.P. Eldridge who lives in the parsonage sought diligently to find the source of the disturbance.  He cut into an unfinished attic, he uncovered a post, hoping to find mischievous rats at the bottom of the mischief.  The hired girl and the children came down repeatedly from the haunted chamber, trembling with fear, and still the knocking went on.  Neighbors were called in, but the "rat tat tat" continued with the regularity of clock work. Then commenced a rattling noise on the roof.  Large stones were picked up, thrown by an unseen hand. The little girl declared she heard whispering voices in the attic; that she saw a man running around the house at midnight; that the cow was milked repeatedly by unknown hands.  Threatening letters were pick up in the yards.

Weeks and months rolled by, and the family suffered on in silence, only the one neighbor's family being aware that anything unusual was going on.  The girl and the entire confidence of the family and seemed to suffer more from fear than any of the rest.  Night after night, for months until the pastor grew haggard and nervous for lack of sleep, the disturbances went on.  One night at midnight the girl called Mr. Eldridge just after a large stone had rattled down from the roof, declaring that she saw a man who threw it.  He ran out rifle in hand, followed by his wife with a revolver.  He fired into a maple tree and his excited fancy conjured the falling twigs and leaves into dropping blood.

A week or two ago, the girl returning from church before the family, declared she found the house broken into and all in confusion.  She was coiled upon a sofa when they returned, the image of terror.

The Monday night following, Messrs. Bacon and Bosworth, carpenters at work upon the church, and Messrs. Graves and Wheeler, came to the relief of the beleaguered family.  So well laid were their plans that their ghostships were caught in the very act.  It proved a very human ghost, none other than the hired girl who had apparently suffered so much from terror. When charged with the deed the following morning she stoutly denied the facts, but those who saw her throw the stone could not be persuaded that she was innocent.  She was sent home bitterly lamenting her folly in losing so good a home and begging forgiveness. She assigned no motive for her actions only that "the devil was at the bottom of it all."  No doubt of that, but he found too willing an instrument to do his bidding.  But alas for our "haunted house."  Not a ripple of excitement has moved since the girl was carried away.  No doubt some envious man will say "I was sure that there was a woman at the bottom of it."