Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, 1817 & September 1878

Oxford Gazette, Oxford NY 

February 5, 1817:  Died, In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY] on Sunday last, Mrs. Eunice Hewitt, relict of Gurdon Hewitt, Esq. formerly of this village.

February 19, 1817:  Married, At Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] on Sunday evening last, by Elder Jonathan Ferris, Mr. James Hammond of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Ruby King of Norwich.

March 19, 1817:  Married, In North Brookfield, Connecticut, Mr. David Tayler, a youth of 40 to the amiable and accomplished Miss Nancy Bartlett, AE 19.  I'm weary of a single life, / I'm really glad I've got a wife.  Ct. Courant.

Died, At New Haven, Connecticut, after a short illness, Capt. Abraham Bradley, aged 76.  He was the oldest merchant in that city.  Ct. Courant

March 26, 1817:  Died, At Union (Broome County) [NY], Amos Paterson an aged and respectable inhabitant of that county.

Married, In the city of New York, on the evening of the 22d ult. Philip Jacobs, Esq., aged 80 to the amiable Miss Eliza Brown, aged 18.  

"Son of Venus, little Cupid / Do you think I fear you now? / O no, no, I'm not so stupid, / In vain at me you bend your bow."

At eighty years, thus Philip sung; / But when Eliza's face he saw, / And heard the magic of her tongue, / His cold resolves did quickly thaw.

But what the dickens! some folks ask, / Caused the fair maid to fancy him? / It were, indeed, a hopeless talk, / To answer for a girlish whim.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, September 11, 1878

Deaths

ADAMS:  In Clayton, Iowa on the morning of the third of September 1878, of congestive fever, Lorenzo G. Adams, son of C.G. Adams of Beaver Meadow, N.Y. [Chenango Co.] aged 25 years, 8 months and 10 days.

In another column will be found a notice of the death of Lorenzo G. Adams, con of C.G. Adams, of Beaver Meadow, which occurred in Clayton, Iowa, Sept. 34d.  His remains were brought to his home for burial.  He was a young man who was held in high estimation by all who knew him and his family and friends have the sympathy of all in their bereavement.

HOGAN:  Chenango Forks, Broome Co. NY: James Hogan attended the funeral of his brother at Susquehanna, Sunday.  He was run over and killed by a switch engine in the yard at that place, Saturday morning.

News Item

On Friday morning two young men discovered the body of a man floating on the water by the side of a small railroad bridge, a short distance this side of Killawog depot [Broome Co. NY].  They immediately went for assistance and the body was taken to the riverbank, there to await the action of the proper authorities.  Coroner Richards was telegraphed for, and he immediately came on the excursion train to this place and was thence taken to Killawog by team.  A jury was impaneled with C.J. Wheaton as foreman. The body had evidently been in the water several days and from the appearance of the clothing it is surmised that it was the body of a tramp.  Whether he fell from a train or was thrown from the track by an engine or accidently fell into the stream it is of course impossible to say, as there are only the theories entertained by people who reside in that locality.  Whitney Point Register

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, September 14, 1878

Marriages

KING - NEWTON:  At the residence of the bride's parents in East Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] by Rev. H.G. Barned, Mr. W.O. King of Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss S.L. Newton of the former place.

SHORES - SOULE:  At the Baptist Parsonage, Whitney's Point [Broome Co. NY], Aug. 28th, by Rev. B.T. Davis, Mr. Charles E. Shores of North Colesville [Broome Co. NY] to Miss Cassie A. [Soule] daughter of Ed Soule of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

FARNSWORTH - DEVOE:  At the residence of the bride's father, Sept. 11th, by Rev. N.J. Hawley, Mr. L. Burr Farnsworth and Miss Minnie B. DeVoe.

LARAWAY - WARNER:  At the M.E. Church in Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], on the evening of Sept. 11th, 1878, by Rev. A.M. Colgrove, Mr. J.M. Laraway to Miss Josephine E. Warner, all of Guilford, N.Y.

Deaths

UTTER:  In King Settlement [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 11th, 1878, Samuel Utter, aged about 75 years.

JOHNSON:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 8th, Mary Esther [Johnson] daughter of Thomas and Mary Johnson, aged 30 days.

MOWRY:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 7 of heart disease, Ida [Mowry] daughter of Nelson E. and Mary Mowry, aged 10 years and 4 months.

TEACHOUT:  In Windsor [Broome Co. NY] Sept. 3d, 1878, Suel Teachout, aged 71 years.

Wilkins Settlement, Chenango Co. NY:  The remains of Suel Teachout of Windsor, formerly of this place, were deposited in the cemetery at North Afton [Chenango Co. NY], on Wednesday of last week. [Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, Sept. 12, 1878]

NICKERSON:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 5th, 1878, Mrs. Samaria [Nickerson] wife of George Nickerson, aged 65 years.

VAN TASSELL:  At the County House, Aug. 26th, Mrs. Lucinda Van Tassell wife of Parley Van Tassell, formerly of Oxford, aged 55 years.

TARBELL:  At the residence of Loren Hotchkiss in Smithville Flats [Chenango Co. NY], Sept 9th, Mrs. John S. Tarbell of Montrose, Pa., aged 55 years.

FINOUT:  Mrs. Eunice Finout of Page Brook [Chenango Co. NY], died on Wednesday morning at 11 o'clock.  The funeral is appointed for Friday.  She is a sister of Mrs. R.B. Bennett here [Chenango Forks, Broome Co. NY].

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, September 1878

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, September 12, 1878

Marriages

SHERWOOD - FAIRBANK:  In Beaver Meadow [Chenango County, NY] May 22 at the parsonage, by Rev. S.H. Adriance, Mr. Wallace Sherwood of Otselic [Chenango Co. NY] to  Miss Hattie Fairbank of Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY].

COUCH - FAIRBANK:  At the residence of the bride's father in Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 3d by Rev. S.H. Adriance, Mr. Orlow Couch of Cuyler [Cortland Co. NY] to  Miss Josie Fairbank of Pharsalia.

STACK - BERRY:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] Sept 3d by Rev. Father Ludden, Mr. James Stack of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Ella Berry of North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

SQUIRES - COMSTOCK:  At the residence of William Cassels in Earlville [Madison Co. NY] Sept. 4th by Rev. G.R. Burnside, Mr. Collins F. Squires of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Ada A. Comstock of South Hamilton [Madison Co. NY].

COOK - McGEORGE:  In St. Paul's Church, Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] on the evening of Sept. 4th by Rev. R. McDuff, Mr. William Cook to Miss Eva S. McGeorge.

HITCHCOCK - ROBINSON:  In South Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 4th, at the residence of the bride's father, by Rev. J.A. Robinson of Cortland, Dewitt Hitchcock, M.D. of Long Island City and Sarah Linn Robinson daughter of S.M. Robinson._

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On Wednesday evening last, Birdsall Street Church [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] was the center of attraction.  At an early hour, a large and brilliant audience had assembled - it being the first event of the kind ever witnessed in that church - to celebrate the nuptials of one who had long been a member of the choir and whose genial disposition and pleasant ways had attracted to her quite a large circle of friends.  The church was splendidly illuminated and elaborately trimmed and decorated with vines and flowers, while a floral marriage bell was suspended from a beautiful evergreen arch in front of the altar.

The parties most interested were Miss Florence Nettie Blackman, daughter of Cyrus Blackman of this place, and Mr. Alonzo C. Wakefield, of Orange, in the old Bay State.  As the organ pealed forth its glad notes, Miss Amelia Church at the keys, the joyous couple were conducted to the altar, where the ceremony was performed in a happy, yet impressive manner by the pastor, Rev. Mr. Stone.

The ushers were Charles Denslow, Charles Pendleton, George Cole and Ira Dain.  After the ceremony the bride and groom repaired to the residence of Mr. Blackman, where they were the recipients of a large number of presents, valuable gifts likewise having been sent to the church.  The loss to Norwich society in the deprivation of Nettie Blackman and especially to the church with which she was connected, will be others' gain.  Mr. Wakefield left with his prize on Tuesday morning for their home in Massachusetts, carrying with them the best wishes of kindred and friends.  We extend our congratulations to the newly wedded couple and wish them a pleasant and prosperous journey on the voyage upon which they have just entered and a happy termination at the end.

Deaths

WHEELER:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 7th, Lavina [Wheeler] wife of Philip Wheeler aged about 60 years.

THOMPSON:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 3d, Mr. Charles C. Thompson aged 74 years.

WALSWORTH:  In Jones County, Iowa, near Onslow, Aug. 23d of old age, Mr. William Walsworth aged 93 years, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

KELLEY:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] August 27th, Mary Ann [Kelley] wife of Jonas Kelley, aged 54 years.

BOWDISH:  In North Uxbridge, Mass. June 20th, Mary A. [Bowdish] wife of S.P. Bowdish and daughter of the late Chauncy Smith of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], aged 58 years 3 months and 13 days.

RAYMOND:  At Elgin, Ill. Aug. 22, 1878, Mr. George B. Raymond, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] aged 70 years.

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South Plymouth, Chenango Co. NY:  On Friday morning, the 6th inst., a few friends gathered in the cemetery and performed the sad duty of laying away the remains of Lorenzo Adams in the silent tomb.  His father, Giles Adams, of Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], arrived with the body only the night before from Iowa, where he died, and it was necessary to proceed at once to the burial.  Lorenzo went West only about a year ago, and in that short time by hard study had risen to the position of principal of a high school and gave promise of rising still higher in the profession of his choice.  Oh, how severe, how hard to learn, are some of the lessons of this transitory life.  Early in the summer, Death invaded the household where the strong ties of parental affection had entwined around an only child, and with hearts torn and lacerated, they deposition her little form in the graveyard - the light and joy of their home gone.  A few weeks since another grave was dug. and now the venerable Benjamin Sisson is no longer found cheerfully toiling in his little workshop.   He has ceased to toil and is at rest.  And now still another procession comes wending its way to the cemetery.  This time a young man - one who bid fair to rise far up the hill of science and gave every evidence of becoming a blessing to society, is lowered into the narrow house prepared for all the living - a short invocation to Him who holds our destinies in his keeping and the friends go their several ways. This world is often called "The land of the living."  Oh no, it's the land of the dying - the land of funerals - of sickness, disease and death.

Vital Records, Madison County, NY, 1810 & 1872

The Pilot, Cazenovia, NY, April 25, 1810

Death

London, May 12, 1810:  Died last evening of a sudden and violent fit of laughter, the Hon. George Canning, Esq.  This melancholy effect of a merry cause was induced by the receipt of dispatches from America, including "Mason's Bill No. II" which repeals the non-intercourse law and threatens to revive it, unless the British orders in council and French decrees are revoked!  Mr. C. compared America to one of the Prince of Wales's mistresses who gave him three months' notice of her resolution that he must quit her bed and board unless -- but ere he finished his simile, a deadly -?- overspread his features.  He was quickly seized with convulsive spasms; was speedily beyond the power of medicine and laughed and kicked and died.

The Pilot, Cazenovia, NY, May 23, 1810

Death

Mrs. Elizabeth Davenport the consort of the Rev. John Davenport, of Pompey [Onondaga Co. NY] departed this life in an advanced age, May 19th, 1810, and we trust was received to the full enjoyment of the inheritance of the saints in light.  Mrs. Davenport had very serious impressions from her early childhood.  She hopefully tested the sweets of redeeming love about the age of fourteen; soon after which she made a public profession of religion. Through a long life she uniformly shone in the character of a humble Christian. She brought forth in rich abundance the precious fruits of holiness and may be said with the strictest propriety to have walked with God. She bore her affliction with Christian fortitude.  She has finished her course and has, we trust, commenced the joys of immortality.

The Pilot, Cazenovia, NY, May 30, 1810

Death

Drowned on Saturday last, in the waters of the outlet of the lake, L.W. Weed, son of Eber Weed, of this village [Cazenovia, Madison Co. NY], aged five years. This melancholy accident ought to be a warning to parents not to suffer their children to play by the water side, which is too frequently the case.

The Pilot, Cazenovia, NY, June 13, 1810

Death

Died on the 2d inst., very suddenly, Elder Alvin Wales, pastor of the Baptist Church in Smithfield [Chenango Co. NY].

Democratic Union, Oneida, NY, May 2, 1872

Marriages

BAKER - ANDERSON:  In Stockbridge [Madison Co. NY], April 25, by Rev. B.H. Brown, Mr. James S. Baker and Miss Eva Anderson, both of Stockbridge.

BENJAMIN - HAMILTON:  In Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] April 18 by Rev. John C Ward, John F. Benjamin of Cazenovia and Francelia Hamilton of Nelson [Madison Co. NY].

PARISOU - FARGO:  In Canastota [Madison Co. NY] April 22 by Rev. B.W. Hamilton, Mr. Joseph Parison of Chittenango Falls [Madison Co. NY] and Miss Electa Fargo of Bingley's [Madison Co. NY].

KELLOWAY - SCHNIERLE:  In Cleveland, Ohio, April 8 by Rev. H. Strong, Mr. Charles Kelloway of Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] and Miss Mary Schnierle of the former place.

PERKINS - DAVIS:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] April 18 by Rev. P. Field, Mr. Leveritt Perkins and Miss Mary Davis, both of Madison [Madison Co. NY].

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Eaton, Madison Co. NY:  One of those happy anniversaries was held in Eaton Village on the evening of the 8th of April at the home of Jonas White, in remembrance of the marriage of Jonas and Camilla E White, twenty-five years ago.  Some fifty of their old friends, representatives of the families of Wood, Stores, Leach, Morse, Fisk, Spencer, Tabor, White, Clark, Williams, Bacon and others, gathered together, bringing their gifts of affection.  

In value the presents amounted to about one hundred and ten [dollars].  Among the bright array with which the gift table was spread were a heavy silver tea set - teapot, cream pitcher, sugar bowl and spoon - a delicate vase, two costly cake baskets, a pair of heavy goblets, two castors - one a beautiful pickle castor - a rich butter dish, a silver call bell, with the donor's names engraved thereon - Mr. and Mrs. W. Carver - set of silver forks, fruit knives, napkin rings; also silver coins, both of ancient and modern dates. There were other gifts than those of silver, among which we noted a fine tablecloth, pretty tidies and some greenbacks.  Besides all these, a picture of the crucifixion, a rich treasure indeed.  A heavy silver ring lay upon a card whereon we traced this inscription "Made from an American Quarter anciently passed in this country.  Made and presented by L. C, Tabor."  

The hours of this evening passed in social converse, spiced with singing, while refreshments most inviting, made up the interlude.  Rev. W.N. Cleaveland made some pleasing remarks, which he closed by wishing life, health and happiness for another quarter century and a golden wedding to brighten the declining of the wedded couple. They were not remarried as has been done in some instances, for the marital knot had been so firmly tied in the beginning, that it had never slipped a thread.  Consequently, there were no loose ends to gather up and tie anew.  Rev. Cleaveland in a closing prayer, petitioned a continuance of those blessings which had made a home secure and happy, in sunshine and in storm. Two hearts at least responded in thankfulness for the threads of silver woven into the web of life, over which glimmers the peaceful sunshine of their domestic world.

Deaths

LILLIBRIDGE:  In Munnsville [Madison Co. NY], April 28, Nellie M. [Lillibridge] wife of Esquire Lillibridge and only daughter of Hiram Rockwell, aged 27 years and 11 months.

NEMIRES:  Near Hoboken, April 21, John H. Nemires aged 65 years.

BUSHNELL:  In Oneida Lake [Oswego Co. NY], April 10, Ira Bushnell aged 81 years 8? months and 27 days.

POTTER:  In Stockbridge [Madison Co. NY], April 1, Lucinda Potter, wife of John Potter, aged 64 years.  gone but not forgotten.  She bore her sickness with patience and passed away peacefully.  She leaves a large circle of friends and acquaintances to mourn her death.

LITTLEJOHN:  In Oswego [Oswego Co. NY], April 26, Alida M. [Littlejohn] wife of Hon D.C. Littlejohn and daughter of the late Moses Tabbs, Esq. of Washington, D.C. in the 46th year of her age.

We learn with regret that the wife of Hon. D.C. Littlejohn died on Sunday morning last, at his residence in Oswego.  She was a highly esteemed lady, possessing many admirable qualities and was a daughter of the late Hon. Henry Fitzhugh.

HITCHCOCK:  In Madison [Madison Co. NY] April 22, Samuel Hitchcock.

WHEELER:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] April 23, Mrs. Rebecca L. Wheeler, aged 63 years and 4 months.

CHURCHILL:  In Kirkland, Oneida Co. [NY] April 24, Ellen M. Churchill, aged 31 years, 8 months, 16 days.

ROGERS:  In Canastota [Madison Co. NY] April 22, Rev. L.C. Rogers aged 70 years.

We sincerely regret to learn of the death of Rev. L.C. Rogers, which occurred at his residence in Canastota on Monday morning of last week.  He was on the street Friday apparently in as good a state of health as usual.  He was taken suddenly ill on the next evening and continued to fail rapidly until his death.  He leaves a family and many warm friends to implore his loss and regret his untimely death.

DRAKE:  In New Woodstock [Madison Co. NY], April 14, Alfred Drake aged 55 years.

BEEBE:  In Fenner [Madison Co. NY], recently, twin babes of Nelson and Nettie Beebe, aged respectfully 3 and 10 days.  The afflicted parents have the sympathy of their kind neighbors in this their sad bereavement.  As tiny angels flown to Heaven upon the throne of grace. 

PARKER:  By a letter lately received by his friends from Wm. Parker, who moved from here [Bouckville, Madison co. NY] last fall to Nauvoo, Illinois, we are sorry to learn of the death of his little son Milton [Parker]. The cause of his sudden death was by being kicked on the head by a mule which he was riding to water.  It appears that he dropped the halter and slipped off to regain it, when the mule gave him a terrible kick, from which he never recovered.  He was a bright little lad of some thirteen years of age, who, in everyone he became acquainted with, found a friend.  But little Milton is now in Heaven, sweetly sleeping the sleep that known no waking.  Many are the little ones around here as they learn the sad news, that will drop a tear of sorrow to the memory of their dear departed friends and late schoolmate, little Milton  The family have the sympathy of this whole community in their great affliction.

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY, 1848 &1878

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, October 7, 1848

Death

Died in Springfield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 28th ult. Mrs. Eunice Keyes relict of Lester f. Keyes, deceased, aged 62 years. 

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, October 14, 1848

Marriages

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY] on the 5th inst. by Harvey hunt, Esq. Gilbert Dayton to Mary Coon both of Milford.

In Westford [Otsego Co. NY] on the 11th instant by the Rev. Mr. Wadsworth, Robert R. Jackson to Gracia [Skinney] daughter of George Skinney, Esq. both of Westford.

Death

Died, At Fly Creek, Otsego County [NY] on the 25th ult. of inflammation of the lungs, Dr. E.B. Ingalls aged 37 years.

This last illness was of short duration, confining him only eight days, but his sufferings were extreme.  This blow of a wise and good Providence is a heavy one, not only to the lone widow, the now fatherless children and surviving relations, but to the whole community in which he lived.  The departed was an ornament and an honor to his profession.  The kindness of his heart, with his untiring diligence in the discharge of the duties imposed upon him, has embalmed his name in the memory of those he was called to serve, and while they deplore their own severe loss, they cannot fail to give a generous sympathy and affectionate attention to those he left behind.  While his early departure from the circle he adorned, cannot fail to remind all who survive him of the changeless truth that "in the midst of life we are in death."

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, October 21, 1848

Marriages

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] on the 12th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Bristol, Charles W. Mason to Caroline Clarke, both of Cooperstown.

In Burlington [Otsego Co. NY] on the 1st inst. by H.G. Hardin, Esq. Addison Byum to Eliza Smith, both of Burlington.

At Exeter [Otsego Co. NY] on the 17th inst. by the same, David Purple of Allegany County [NY] to Miss Lucy Baldwin of Exeter.

Death

In Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 25th ult. Mrs. Sally Ann [Still] wife of Mr. Joseph L. Still, aged 35 years.  The deceased was a devoted member of the Baptist Church and died in the full faith of a happy immortality.  She has left a large circle of friends to mourn her loss.

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, October 28, 1848

Marriage

In Burlington [Otsego Co. NY] on the 11th inst. by D. Fisk, Esq. Orson Benjamin to Caroline Gardner, both of Otsego [Otsego Co. NY].

Oneonta Herald & Democrat, Oneonta, NY, September 13, 1878

Marriages

At the M.E. church, Exeter Centre [Otsego Co. NY] Sept. 4th by Rev. W.B. Thomas, Prof Arthur Moore Parke and Lucie Amelia Donaghe all of Exeter.

In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] Sept. 10, by Rev. W.G Galpin, Fred R. Lines and Ida M. Hatch, all of Unadilla.

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY] Sept. 3d, by Rev. J.S. Southworth, Wm. BN. Garratt of Goodrich, Canada and Anna E. Brown of Morris.

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] Aug. 28th, by Rev. W.H. Humphrey, Edward Soper of Humboldt, Neb. and Miss Lucy Hurlbert of Laurens.

At the residence of the bride's father, Sept. 4th, by Rev. F.F. Rice, Wm. J. McMurdy of Stamford [Delaware Co. NY] and  Miss Addie V. Jones of Addison [Steuben Co. NY].

Deaths

At Phoenix Mill [Otsego Co. NY] Sept. 2, Eugene [Bennett] son of Solomon Bennett, aged 14 years.

At Gilbertsville [Otsego Co. NY] Sept. 7, Harry Hobart Blackman youngest son of J. Russell Blackman aged 7 months.

In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], Sept. 6, Mrs. Jane Bryant of Gilbertsville [Otsego Co. NY] aged 84.

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY], Sept. 4, after a long and painful illness, Mrs. Mary Rathbun wife of Jonathan F. Rathbun in the 60th year of her age.

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY] Sept. 9th, Mrs. Geo. N. Goodrich aged 61 years.

In Roxbury [Delaware Co. NY] Sept. 2d, Hon Daniel Rowland aged 83 years.

In Afton [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 5th, Myrta H. [Cable] youngest daughter of Theodore and Mary J. Cable, aged 2 years, 8 months and 23 days.

At Sharon Springs [Schoharie Co. NY], Phillip Streker of Newark, N.J. arrived Wednesday, was found dead in his bed at his hotel Thursday morning of heart disease.

John McRaffeny a drunken tramp was drowned in Otsego Lake on the 4th by the boat upsetting.  Philo Brewer of this place was in the boat but swam ashore.

Tragedy in Coventry, Chenango Co. NY, 1855

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, January 10, 1855

Awful Tragedy in Coventry 

We are enabled today before our readers, this week, the particulars of one of the most awful tragedies which ever occurred in the record of crimes.  The facts we have received from a gentleman residing in the neighborhood of the occurrence and they may be relied upon as furnishing a true statement of this bloody affair.

On Thursday, the 5th inst. David D. Davis of Coventry in Chenango County [NY] who, as it subsequently appeared, had resolved upon the murder of his own wife, and of the family of Mr. Benjamin B. Hotchkiss with whom she was boarding, was at the house of Mr. Harvey Gillmore, a most respectable inhabitant of the town of Greene [Chenango Co. NY] when Mr.  Hotchkiss came in.  Mr. Hotchkiss resided in Coventry; his house being situated about 100 rods from that of Mr. Gillmore.  Mr. Gillmore was the brother of Mrs. Davis.  Mr. Gillmore, Hotchkiss and Davis, conversed for some time, with apparent cordiality, when Davis said to Mr. Gillmore, "I would like to have you send up to Mr. Hotchkiss' and have my wife come down here.  I want to see her."  Mr. Gillmore sent a young man after her.  Mr. Hotchkiss got up about the same time, and Davis said to him, "Are you going home Buell?"  Mr. Hotchkiss replied, "I believe I will."  Davis then said "You can speak to Mrs. Davis about coming down here."  Hotchkiss answered that he would.  Mr. Hotchkiss then went out of the back door and was immediately followed by Davis.  After going out, they stopped a moment, as if in conversation.  Mr. Hotchkiss then walked round the house toward the road, Davis still being a few steps behind him, when the latter drew a revolver and shot Mr. Hotchkiss in the back, the ball passing through his heart and lodging in his vest.  

Mr. Gillmore, who heard the report, ran out immediately and found Mr. Hotchkiss lying upon his back dead, and Davis standing a few steps off, with his pistol in his hand.  Mr. Gillmore said to Davis, "Davis, have you shot Buell?"  Davis coolly replied, "Well, I have and don't you come near me or lay your hands on me.  If you do, I will shoot you through in a minute."  Davis than started on a fast walk for the gate.  The young man who had been sent for Mrs. Davis, seeing or hearing the occurrence, came back and met Davis at the gate.  The latter said to him.  "Keep away from me.  If you lay your hands on me, I'll blow your brains out in a minute."  As Davis started for the gate, Mr. Gillmore said to him "Davis, Don't go to the house." Davis replied, "I shall go."

Davis then walked up the road toward Hotchkiss' house in which were Mrs. Hotchkiss and Mrs. Davis.  Mr. Gillmore following him, while Davis continually warned Mr. Gillmore "to keep his distance or he would shoot him."  When they had got within a few rods of the house, in which the women were, Mr. Gillmore hallowed to them to run.  Mrs. Davis and Mrs. Hotchkiss hearing this noise, the former came to the front door of the house and opened it. As she opened the door, Davis had got over the front fence and was rapidly approaching the door with his pistol in his hand and as soon as it was opened, he fired.  The ball took effect in Mrs. Davis' abdomen.  Mrs. Davis did not fall, but immediately closed the door and fastened it. this door was on the north side of the house. There was another on the east side and Davis started for that.   Mrs.  Hotchkiss attempted to fasten it when Davis burst it open and fired at Mrs. Hotchkiss, but the ball did not take effect.  Mrs. Davis was still standing by a chamber door, nearby facing her husband.  Davis fired again at her, the ball hitting the panel of the chamber door, and glancing off, entered Mrs. Davis' thigh.  Davis then turned around and walked off, about two rods from the house, when he placed his pistol to his right breast and shot himself and was already dead when the neighbors reached the spot.  On searching his person another revolver was found loaded.   Mrs. Davis lingered in great pain for three or four hours, when she also expired.

The following is supposed to have been the motive of Davis in committing this brutal tragedy.  Mrs. Davis, after her marriage, received on the death of her father some $1100 or $1200.  Davis had been to California and returned about a year ago.  Immediately on his return, he endeavored to get possession of his wife's money and succeeded in obtaining $500 or $600.  The means he resorted to, to accomplish this, and his brutal treatment of his wife otherwise, led her to separate from him in July last, and she had commenced proceedings for a limited divorce on account of his bad treatment of her.  The cause was on the Calendar of the Circuit now sitting in this village.  No other motive is assigned by those acquainted with the parties than the effect of the separation and the proceedings for a divorce upon the brutal disposition of Davis.

Davis was about thirty-five years of age and has never borne a good character among his neighbors.  His body was taken by some of his relatives and buried two or three miles below Greene Village.

The funeral of Mr. Hotchkiss and Mrs. Davis took place on Sunday last, amidst a large concourse of citizens - some 3,000 or 4,000 in number - who were drawn together as well my sympathy for the relatives of the victims of this bloody affair, as by the excitement attending such a horrible deed.  The funeral sermon was preached by Rev. Aaron Parker.

Both Mr. Hotchkiss and Mrs. Davis were among the most respectable and esteemed inhabitants of the locality, and this horrid event, unprecedented in our annals, has cast a deep gloom over the community where it occurred.

Vital Records, Otsego County, Y, 1847 & 1854/5

 Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, April 21, 1847

Marriage

In Milford [Otsego Co. NY] on the 6th inst. by G.W. Howe, Mr. Hudson G. Tracy of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Mary E. Cook of the former place.

Deaths

At his residence in Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] on the 4th inst., Mr. Stephen Field aged 35 years.  

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, nY, April 28, 1847

Marriage

In Otsego [Otsego Co. NY] on the 14th instant by Rev. W. Burnside, Mr. Alexander S. Rose of Richfield [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Charlotte Burke of Exeter [Otsego Co, NY]

Deaths

At Rochester, Indiana, on the 7th inst.  Lyman Brackett, M.D. of a short but severe attack of the malignant fever of that region, aged 28 years and 5 months.  The deceased left a wife and child and numerous friends to mourn his sudden departure.

In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] on the 25th ult. Mr. Ebenezer Gregory, aged 50 years.

At Burlington [Otsego Co. NY] on the 16th inst. Mrs. Elizabeth [Cushman] widow of the late Benj. Cushman, aged 82 years.

In Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] on the 18th instant, Harvey Perkins, aged 37 years.

At Jackson, Mississippi on the 28th Feb. last, Miss Mary Westcott daughter of Docter Gardiner Wescott of Springfield, Otsego Co. [NY] in the 20th year of her age.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, August 16, 1854

Marriage

In Delhi [Delaware Co. NY] on the 2d inst. by Rev. A.F. Selleck, Chauncey Colton of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Matilda M. Sloate of Delhi, daughter of Mr. David Sloate.

Death

In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] on the 14th inst. Mrs. Margaret A. [Cook] wife of Jesse? Cook.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, August 30, 1854

Marriages

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] on the 18th inst. by Rev. Westcott, Mr. Christian Uebel and Miss Cynthia E. Mann both of this village.

In Milford [Otsego Co. NY] on the 21st inst. by Rev. Mr. Southworth, Mr. Wm. Vanderburch of New York to Miss Maria F. Francis of Milford.

On the 22d inst. by Rev. H. Cornwell, Mr. Homer Birdsell to Miss Charlotte B. Ferry, both of Otego [Otsego Co. NY].

Death

In this village [Oneonta, Otsego Co. NY], on the 27th inst. Salina E. [Sullivan] wife of Orlando Sullivan, aged 24 years.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, October 18, 1854

Marriages

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] on the 11th inst. by Rev. E. Westcott, Mr. Sylvanus J. Sohemerhorn to Miss Abigal Smith, both of Franklin [Delaware Co. NY].

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] on the 16th inst. by the same, Mr. James Bundy of Otego [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Emma Coonley of Cobleskill [Schoharie Co. NY].

Death

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] on the 6th inst. Mr. Chauncey Hinckley aged 54 years.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, January 10, 1855

Death

In Milford [Otsego Co. NY], on the 3d inst. Abijah K. Roberts aged 21 years.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, January 31, 1855

Marriages

On the 3d inst. in the Chapel of Perry Academy, Perry, Wyoming Co. N.Y. by the Rev. J.R. Page, Prof. C.H. Dann to Miss Jerrie Waterbury principal and preceptress of the Institution.

At Maryland [Otsego Co. NY] Jan. 16th by Rev. H. Garlick, Mr. Willard Bushnell to Miss Elizabeth A. Boardman, Esq. all of Maryland.

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY, 1847 & 1878

 Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, March 3, 1847

Marriages

At Richfield Springs [Otsego Co. NY] on the 11th inst. by Hary G. Hardin, Esq. Mr. Nathan Burges to Miss Eliza Willys, both of Winfield, Herkimer Co. [NY].

In Canajoharie [Montgomery Co. NY] on the 18th inst. by Rev. David Poor, Mr. Abner Cook of Springfield [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Cornelia Van Alstien(?) of the former place.

In Decatur [Otsego Co. NY] on the 23d inst. by Rev. E. Denison, Cyrus A. Lewis Esq. to Miss Emeline Seaward both of Decatur.

On the 24th by the same, F. Moulton Esq., of Root, Montgomery Co. [NY] to Miss Mary McCollum of Decatur [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

In Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] on the 20th January, Mr. Thomas Craddon in the 71st year of his age.

In Hartwick [Otsego Col. NY], on the 25th ult. Mr. Daniel Olendorf, aged 67 years.

Last Monday evening, Hannah Elizabeth [Dunlap], infant daughter of Mr. James B. Dunlap, Merchant of this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY], and Mrs. Laura W. Dunlap, aged 7 months and 9 days.  The funeral will be attended at 1 o'clock this afternoon from his house in Montgomery Street.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, March 10, 1847

Marriage

On Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], on the 24th ult. by Rev. E.V. Wales, A.G. Shaw esq., to Miss Melissa McDonald, both of that place.

Deaths

In Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 9th ult. Mr. Elijah Hubbell in the 77th year of his age.

At Fly Creek (Otsego Co. NY) on the 4th instant, Emma Amelia [Metcalf] infant daughter of Mr. Charles h. Metcalf, aged 1 year and seven months.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, March 17, 1847

Marriages

In this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY], on the 25th ult. by the Rev. Mr. Harvey, Mr. Levi Wafle of Springfield [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Sally Ough.

Also, by the same, on the 10th inst. Mr. Harris Welch to Miss Nancy Seely both of this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY].

Also, by the same, on the 10th inst., Mr. Orrin Silby of Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Laura Rudd of this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY].

Death

At Norwich, Chenango County [NY] on the 9th inst. Clark Warner a member of Otsego Lodge, No. 103, aged about 28 years.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, March 31, 1847

Marriages

In this town [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] on the 18th by the Rev. Mr. Fulton, Mr. Van Rensselaer Voorhees to Miss Lydia Crounse.

In Richfield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 24th inst. by H.G. Hardin, Esq. Mr. David Z. Curtis to Miss Martha M. Brooks.

In Westford [Otsego Co. NY] on the 10th inst. by Rev. J. Shank, Alfred Brownell to Eliza Ann Reynolds.

Deaths

At Springfield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 16th inst. Hariet Helen [Davy] only daughter of Harvey H. and Eunice Davy, aged 6 years and 9 days.

In Frankfort, Herkimer Co. [NY] on the 1th inst., Rev. Benjamin Harvey aged one hundred and eleven years, a soldier of the Revolution.

Another Revolutionary Soldier Gone:  The late venerable Samuel Short was born in Killingsly, Conn. April 8th, 1765, served some three years in the Revolutionary war, purchased a farm & located himself in the town of Hartwick in this county [Otsego Co. NY] in 1786; was united in marriage with her who is now is widow in 1793.  Became with his wife a member of the M.E. Church in 1807.  Lived a good man in the exhibition of a meek and quiet spirit, and died beloved and respected by all, in great peace, at his late residence, in this village, on the morning of the 21st inst. at the age of 82.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, September 12, 1878

Marriages

At New Lisbon, N.Y. [Otsego Co.], Sept. 3d, '78, by Rev. I.J. Bailey, Geo. W. Hickling and Miss Mary A. Bundy, all of New Lisbon.

In Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] September 6th, by Rufus P. Luce, Justice of the Peace, at his residence, Charley W. Haight and Miss Jennie Hymers(?) both of Franklin, Delaware Co. N.Y.

In New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY] on the 4th inst. by Rev. James D. Webster, Rev. I.J. Bailey, pastor of the Baptist church at New Lisbon, to Miss Lena D. Casprus of Luzerne, Warren County, N.Y.

Deaths

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] Sept. 8th, 1878, Mr. George Franklin [Hecox] son of George and Mary Hecox, aged 13 months and 20 days.

In Clintonville [Clinton Co. NY], Sept. 7th, 1878, Arthur Jay [Clinton] only child of Sidney and Anele Clinton, aged 1 year and 4 months.

In the town of Springfield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 27th ult. Alzoa [Pickens] wife of Horace Pickens, aged 28 years and 5 months.

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] Sept. 2d, Mrs. Maria Comstock relict of the late Gen. Wm. Comstock, aged 74 years.

In Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY] Aug. 20th, '78, Artemisia Goodspeed aged 29 years and 5 months.

Near Burlington Flats [Otsego Co. NY], August 22d, Julia Ann [Brainard] wife of Jonathan Brainard and youngest sister of the late David E. Whitcomb of Morris [Otsego Co. NY] aged 57 years.

In Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY], August 21st Mary [Stevens] wife of Joshua Stevens, aged 43 years and 6 months.

In Brooklyn, Aug. 3d, Jonathan A. Fowler of Englewood, N.J.  Mr. F. was for many years a resident of Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY].

Drowned:  On the 4th inst. a tramp who had given to associates the name of Wm. McCaffrey was drowned in Otsego Lake about a mile from the village.  With two other tramps he had gone up the lake in a rowboat and all three landed on the east shore.  There they took "another drink" from a whiskey bottle and then two of them again got into the boat and it upset.  One was drowned and the other had a narrow escape.  The deceased was about 33 years of age, 5 feet 8 inches high and stout built.  He had in his pocket a prayer book, in which was written the name of Eugene McClaughlin, Conn.  He had said to one of the men with him that he was by trade a chair bottomer and that he had worked in a bolt factory, also that he had lived at some place between Hartford and New Haven, Conn.  An inquest was held by Coroner Dr. Parshall, and a verdict returned of accidental drowning.   He was drunk at the time.

News Item

A female horse thief named Mrs. Della Hill has been arrested at Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].  Last June, she stole a team of horses from a farmer named Hubert L. Rogers living at Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] and in company with a man named Frank Hibbard, ran away.  Although officers were in close pursuit, the two managed to elude arrest at the time. Since then the two have traveled through various counties in the vicinity of Chenango and traded horses not less than three times. The last horse they got died on their hands, whereupon they sold the wagon and harness and proceeded on foot. They were captured while on their way to the hop fields.  Both were taken to Norwich where they pleaded guilty and were committed to await the action of the grand jury.

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY, 1811 & 1846

 Cooperstown Federalist, Cooperstown, NY, January 12, 1811

Deaths

In this town [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], on the 31st ult of the typhus fever, Polly Pier, daughter of Abner Pier, late deceased.

In the town of Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] of the same disease, Mrs. Betsey Aplin consort of Wm. Aplin and daughter of Abner Pier deceased.  It is remarkable that in the course of seven weeks, four members of this family have fallen victims to the typhus fever.

Cooperstown Federalist, Cooperstown, NY, February 2, 1811

Marriage

At Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY], on the 25th inst. Dr. Johnson of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Sally Johnson of the former place.

Death

At Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] on Sunday the 20th instant, Miss Polly Danielson, daughter of Mr. Calvin Danielson in the 19th year of her age.

Cooperstown Federalist, Cooperstown, NY, February 9, 1811

Death

Died at Troy, N.Y. [Rensselaer Co.] on the 31st ult. Mr. Francis Prentiss, brother to the editors of this paper.

Cooperstown Federalist, Cooperstown, NY, February 23, 1811

Marriage

In Boston [MA] Dr. Moses Holbrook of New York to Miss Maria Prentiss of the former place.

Deaths

In Waterford (Ireland) the Rev. J. Dickson.  He was in his desk and had just given out as his text "We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ," when he fell down in his pulpit and instantly expired.

At Cork [Ireland) Nov. 3, eighteen persons, men, women and children killed, and a number of others dangerously wounded by an explosion of gun powder which blew up three dwelling houses.

At Richmond (Va.) the 19th ultimo, Mr. George F. Strass, an old inhabitant of that place.  He was, as we are informed, a native of Germany, and by profession a Gamester.  He was regular in his life and honorable in his profession.  He presided with great dignity and success at the principal Pharaoh Banks in this city for more than 20 years, branches of which (under his patronage) were extended far and wide through this and some of the adjacent states. Indeed, we believe he is entitled to the honor of introducing and systematizing Gaming as a profession in this state.  The influence of his example and the countenance which was afforded him, the success of his practice and the impunity with which it was carried on, induced many of the profligate, licentious and desperate to put themselves under his auspices; some of whom having taken their regular degrees (as we judge) have established independent banks and among the rest, we are informed is one mulatto president.  So that Mr. G.F.S. had the pleasure of witnessing the prosperity of the institution of which he was the founder and the satisfaction before his death of seeing his labors in every sense crowned with success.  He professed not to believe in a future state, and the whole of his life evinced the sincerity of this profession, or more correctly, the tenor of his conduct thro' life made it necessary to profess infidelity to support a character of inconsistency.  But he is gone to his long home and all lovers of religion, all the friends of morality, all who have a regard either for the laws of God or man, have to lament not that he is dead, but that he ever lived.  Virginia Argus.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, April 18, 1846

Marriages

In Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY] on the 12th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Lush, Mr. Thomas H. Pitts to Miss Ann E. Shipman, both of Clarksville [Allegany Co. NY].

In Decatur [Otsego Co. NY] on the 12th inst., by the Rev. Edwin Dennison, William H. Day, Esq. formerly of Albany [Albany Co. NY] to Miss Emily Parker of Decatur.

At Springfield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 15th inst. by the Rev. S.W. Gates, Mr. J.L. Hardy to Miss Anna Maria Tracy all of Springfield.

In Milford [Otsego Co. NY] on the 16th inst. by the Rev. L. Bolton Mr. Geo. Schermerhorn to Miss Plyana Cummings, both of Milford.

Deaths

At the residence of her daughter (Mrs. Botsford) in this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] on the 4th inst. Mrs. Alice Scott aged 57 years.

In Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY] on the 10th inst. George Washington Rudd in the 35th year of his age.

___________________________

Another Revolutionary Soldier Gone

Died in Richfield, Otsego Co. [NY] on the 1s t inst. Mr. Daniel Patchin aged 85 years.  The deceased was a native of Connecticut and came to Richfield about thirty years ago where he had since resided, honored and respected by all that knew him.  But to give our fellow citizens a more correct idea of the character of Mr. P. and to bestow upon him that respect and approbation which we think belong to one so worthy, the following extract is made from the sermon delivered on the 4th inst. by the Rev. J.H. Tuttle on the occasion of the funeral obsequies:

"When we look back on the history of our country and remember the oppression that once bore so heavily upon us, the struggles of our fathers to secure their freedom, their victory over cruelty and wrong, a feeling of gratitude warms our bosoms, as we think of those who labored so arduously in so glorious a cause. When we remember that the freedom which is now ours to enjoy and of which we are so proud to speak, was purchased by the sacrifice of comfort and peace - the warm blood of many an honest heart, - by the endurance of heart rending trials and sleepless nights - by making the cold damp ground the pillow of slumber and the wide curtain of heaven a covering - when we remember that such was the price of liberty, we cannot but venerate those who were subjects of such trying scenes, and one of those, my friends, was the deceased, whose remains are now before us. Scare sixteen summers had smiled upon his youthful days, when he enlisted in the army of Washington, to labor for his country' peace and protection.  He afterwards enlisted in the Cavalry and was finally made one of Washington's personal guards.

"Never could he speak of the immortal Washington without being deeply affected.  The bare mention of his name would cause the tear to conglobe in his eye; his aged energies would seem to be awakened to a new impulse, and his patriotic soul seemed to beat in unison with earlier days.  Many of us have listened to his rehearsals with a feeling of pleasurable pride, and have been animated with a sense of patriotism, as we have heard him speak of what has formed so conspicuous a part of the annals of our country.

"But alas! he is gone! His aged form has at last bowed to the mandate of death.  Those cheeks that braved the storms of so many winters are now cold and pale.  Those eyes that watched while on guard the secret movements of the enemy are now closed forever. That heart, once warmed by a love of peace, a love of freedom, beats no more.  But we could not reasonably expect him to stay longer, and we may wonder rather that a harp of a thousand strings should keep in tune so long.  He died in the bosom of his peaceful country. the cannon's dismal roar - the shrill clarion of war - the groans of the dying - disturbed not his last moments.  He had lived to behold the banner of liberty floating honorably and peacefully over his head.  May his name be long honored and remembered and around his silent resting place may there ever linger a halo of a glorious departure.

"Thus, might we dwell long upon his character and the circumstances of his life or in pronouncing an eulogy which we think would be justly due; but it will suffice to say that he lived long and died honored and respected by all that knew him - a lover of freedom, a pattern of honesty, an admirer of virtue."