Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1878)

 Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, November 20, 1878

Death

At the late meeting of the State Branch of the Woman's Board of Missions, held at Oswego, an essay on "The Claims for Sympathy of the Children of Missionaries," by the late Mrs. Cordelia J. Rexford, of this place [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], was read.  Of Mrs. Rexford's death and facts relating thereto, the Congregationalist has the following: "A sad accident occurred at Sherburne, resulting in the death of a most estimable woman, a member of the church, Mrs. C.J. Rexford, by the explosion of a kerosene lamp.  She was a wealthy and benevolent lady, deeply interested in foreign missions and would have been elected President of the State Branch of the W.B.M.  but for this event.  She suffered severely for several days but exhibited a beautiful spirit of patience and resignation. She will be much missed."

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, November 23, 1878

Marriage

SEXTON - PIER:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 19th, at the residence of the bride's father, by Rev. C.C. Johnson, Mr. Horace Sexton and Miss Millie Pier.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, Nov. 23, 1878:  Smyrna, Chenango Co. NY:  Mr. Horace Sexton of Sherburne and Miss Millie Pier were "made one," at the residence of Augustin Pier, Tuesday.

Deaths

North Norwich, Chenango Co. NY:  Another of our aged inhabitants has been borne on the wings of time from the stage of life to the land of the unknown.  Mrs. Rachel Ladue an aged lady in her ninety-first year, was found dead in her bed on Tuesday morning last.  The deceased had been remarkably active even up to the time of her death and was able to read from her bible without the aid of glasses. She was born in Dutchess County, and fourteen years ago moved with her son, Orville Ladue, to this town, with whom she has since lived.  The funeral was held at the house at 11 A.M., Thursday, Rev. W. White of Hamilton was the officiating clergyman.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, Nov. 23, 1878:  Fallen Asleep:  Mrs. LaDue, better known as "Grandma LaDue," mother of Orville and Alfred LaDue, retired to bed on the evening of the 18th inst. in apparent health, and on the morning of the 19th was found dead in her bed.  Her age was 90 years. She has lived with her son Orville many years and was kindly cared for.  Her faculties remained unimpaired to a remarkable degree.  She was loved by all who knew her and [known] as a kind neighbor and good and consistent Christian.  Thus, another landmark is gone.

_____________________

Coventry, Chenango Co. NY:  The funeral of Morty Tuberty of this town, was attended on Sunday last. 

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, November 13, 1878

Marriage

PARKER - CLOSE:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 6th, by Rev. A. Parker, of Greene, Mr. Merrit S. Parker of Greene [Chenango Co. NY] to Mrs. Emily Close of Norwich.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, November 21, 1878

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 17th, Hubert L. [Porter] son of John M. Jr. and Jennie Porter, aged 3 weeks and 2 days.

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 18th, Mrs. Sarah Ann [Watson] wife of Ira Watson, aged 60 years.

News Item

The Telegraph tells the following about a dog that belonged to the late Capt. Bliven of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

This dog was a favorite of Captain Bliven and wherever he went was his constant companion and was in excellent health and condition.  He saw the accident to his master and when he was borne into the house followed him to his room, and during the captain's sickness of a week, was never known to leave the room but twice, and he would lay his head on the bed and groan as if suffering intense agony, refusing food all the time. Since the Captain's death it has eaten but little, and is gradually wasting away, until now he is a mere skeleton and will in all probability soon die of a broken heart at the loss of his indulgent master.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, November 23, 1878

Deaths

HARRIS:  In this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY] November 20, 1878, Deacon Hezekiah Harris, aged 88 years, 7 months and 5 days.

Deacon Hezekiah Harris died at his residence in this village on Wednesday last at the advanced age of 88 years.  Though the event has been anticipated for some weeks, the passing away of the aged patriarch falls with heavy sadness upon all our citizens who regarded him with a veneration and love rarely accorded to any.  One of the "pillars in the temple" has passed away, but his impress remaineth.

News Item

A very pleasant surprise was given on Tuesday, the 18th inst. at the Reese Homestead, by the daughters of Otto Reese, to celebrate his seventy-eighth birthday.  Among the number present were his two sisters, Mrs. John Youngs and Mrs. Warner Calkins of Earlville, his daughters and their families and Mr. Omer Calkins. The table to which the guests were invited groaned under the weight of numerous luxuries which reminded one of holidays.  Mr. Reese, seated between his sisters over whose heads more than seven decades have passed, and surrounded by his children and grandchildren, presented a happy group.

An old newspaper from 1813, Norwich, Chenango Co. NY

 An Old Newspaper from 1813

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, November 21, 1878

We have been favored by Joseph M Arnold of this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] with the perusal of a copy of The Telegraph, published in this village, Saturday, October 30, 1813, by James M. Miller.  The copy referred to is the eleventh number of the second volume, and consists of four pages, the reading matter on each of which measures nine by fifteen and one-half inches.

Its columns are filled with war news from various points, including:

A "Horrid Detail of the Disaster on the Mobile," in which the whites were badly beaten by the Indians;

An account of the defeat of the Republican army of Texas, on the 13th of August, twenty miles beyond San Antonio, by the army of Arrandono; 

Announcement of the arrival of letter-of-maroue vessels with prizes; 

An account, thirty-five days from Liverpool, of the capture of the U.S. brig Argus, August 14th, by the British vessel Pelican, after the Argus had taken and destroyed twenty-one sail of British vessels;

Promotion by the President of Oliver H. Perry to the rank of Captain in the Navy, after the battle on Lake Erie;

An appeal to the "Old and Young Patriots of the Western District," by George McClure, Brig Gen. Com'g Niagra Frontier, to join his Brigade in defense of their country and right;

Another order by the same General, signed by John C. Spencer, Acting Aid-de-Camp;

A letter from Gen. William H. Harrison, September 30th announcing the reoccupation of Michigan, Proctor's army capture, and the Indians submitting;

Another letter from that General, to the Department of War, dated "Headquarters, near Moravian Town, on the river Thames 20 miles from Detroit, October 5, 1813," confirming the "complete victory over the combined British and Indians and British forces under the command of Gen. Proctor," and mentioning the wounding of "the brave Col. R.M. Johnson";

A receipt for making wine from cider;

The invention of a machine for moulding and manufacturing brick;

Announcement of the death at Fort George, on the 5th, in the U.S. service, of Josiah Miller, a resident of this village, aged 26 years.

___________________

In its advertising columns appears a notice to the "Proprietors of the Norwich library Society," signed D. Buttolph, Librarian;

Loring Warner advertises the loss of a red Morocco pocketbook, containing money and valuable papers;

A.& J.B. Graham notify their delinquent customers that they must pay up, or their accounts will be placed in the hands of a magistrate, "without discrimination";

Asa Sheldon Advertises mortgage sale, by Birdsall & Ely, his attorneys;

C. Beecher made hats and caps, and wanted an apprentice;

Reuben Nichols wished to exchange articles in the saddlery line for any quantity of good bear skins;

J.S. Fenton sold dry goods, groceries, drugs and medicines, hardware, looking glasses, crockery, paints, oils, drums, and would pay $3 per hundred for black salts, in exchange for goods;

Perez Randall had just received from New York a large stock of dry goods, crockery, hardware and groceries, with rum, wine, brandy, whiskey, powder, etc.;

James Birdsall had received the appointment from the US. Marshal to receive reports from all British subjects residing in Chenango, Delaware and Otsego Counties;

Isaac Foote, Jr., advertised Sheriff's sales;

Nathan Pendleton, Administrator of the estate of William R. Randall, gives the usual notice;

Darius Babcock, of Preston, was desirous of recovering his saddlebags, lost between Noah Grant's in Pharsalia and Hugh Smith's in Preston;

David Phetteplace and Thomas Phetteplace, Administrators of Philip Phetteplace, advertise;

J. Birdsall, Secretary, gives notice that the "Chenango Cotton Manufacturing Company" have appointed Hascall Ransford, Peter B. Garnsey, Joseph Richmond, Joseph S. Fenton, John Noyes, Henry Mitchell, Nathan Parke,r James Birdsall and William Munroe, Directors;

Samuel Birdsall had opened a law office "at Lewisville, near Franchote & Van Rensselaer's Store in the town of Butternuts"; 

Monell & Chamberlain, of Greene, published a law card; 

Thomas Smith had rented "the distillery heretofore occupied by Sharp & Milner, one mile north of the Court house," where he would be happy to "exchange six quarts of whiskey for each bushel of good rye or corn, provided five gallons or upwards are applied for, which cannot be calling the grain less than six shillings per bushel, the whiskey to be of the same quality as that which has been retailed by Perez Randall for a year or two past;

Hascall Ransford, Perez Randall and James Birdsall call a meeting of the inhabitants of the Fifteenth Township, at the house of Lot Clark, to consult upon the propriety of selling "The Gospel and School Lots of Land belonging to said Township (Norwich and New Berlin);

The proprietors of The Telegraph kept for sale at his office, "Abaellino, the Bravo of Venice," "Webster's Spelling Book," "the American Preceptor," "The Columbian Reader," "Narrative and Report of the cause and circumstances of the deplorable Conflagration at Richmond, Va.";

and "clean cotton and linen rags" were wanted at that office.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY (1878)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, November 21, 1878

Marriages

DENSLOW - LOWE:  At the Congregational Parsonage in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 16th, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. Frank C. Denslow of Norwich to Miss Anna S. Lowe, of Baltimore, Md.

ATWELL - PIKE:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 12th, by Rev. L.C. Hayes, Mr. Ordello Atwell of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Hattie F. Pike  of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY].

MARVIN - SMITH:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 12th, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. Anson Marvin of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Lizzie Smith of Great Bend, N.Y. [Jefferson Co.]

DeFOREST - NICHOLSON:  At the Baptist Parsonage in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 18th, by Rev. L.M.S. Haynes, Mr. Leonard T. DeForest of East Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Hannah E. Nicholson of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY].

NICHOLSON - ALDRICH:  At the same time and place, by the same, Mr. Frank E. Nicholson to Miss Lucinda A. Aldrich, both of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY].

ZIEMAN - ZOERR:  At the home of the bride's father, Casper Zoerb in Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 14th, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. John Zieman of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Christiana Zoerb of Guilford.

REDINGTON - ABEL:  In North Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 13th, by Rev. H.C. Leach, Mr. Will. D. Redington of White Store [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Ethel M. Abel of North Pitcher.

ATKYNS - SHAW:  In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 16th, by Rev. G.M. Foster, Mr. William E. Atkyns, of Otselic to Miss M.A. Shaw of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY].

HOWLAND - WOOSTER:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 6th by Rev. S.C. Fulton, Mr. Hiram C. Howland of Oxford to Miss Andellutia Wooster of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY]  

SWIFT - FREEMAN:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 6th, by Rev. G.R. Burnside, Mr. Mellville H. Swift of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Mary A. Freeman of North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

SIMPSON:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 16th, Catharine E. [Simpson] wife of Lewis N. Simpson, aged 34 years.

LADUE:  At the residence of her son, Orville Ladue, in North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 19th, Mrs. Racael/Rachnel Ladue aged 90 years.  

TALLETT:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY] at the County House Oct. 20th, Louise Tallett, aged 50 years, formerly of Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY].

WINSOR:  In Bennettsville [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 5th, Freddie [Winsor] only son of Ellsworth and Delpha Winsor, aged 9 years and 6 months.

TRAVIS:  In Walton [Delaware Co. NY] Nov. 9th, Mrs. Sarah Travis aged 22 years, formerly of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY].

SEYMOUR:  In Chicago, Nov. 5th, Jennie [Seymour wife of Z.L. Seymour, aged 35 years, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY]

FISHER:  In Utica [Oneida Co. NY] Nov. 11th, Mr. Martin V.B. Fisher aged 44 years and 6 months, brother of E.G. Fisher of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

CARR:  In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] Nov. 13th, Dr. Royal R. Carr aged 65 years, formerly of East German, Chenango Co. [NY].

Oxford, Chenango Co. NY:  Dr. Royal R. Carr who died in Binghamton last week, will be remembered by our older residents as a student with Dr Wm. G. Sands of this village.  He was a native of German.

CHURCH:  The funeral of Mrs. John W. Church was largely attended at the residence of her mother, Mrs. S.H. Barnes, on Friday afternoon last.  The Court and Board of Supervisors adjourned to attend the funeral, and the services were most impressively conducted by Rev. S. Scoville.  The expressions of sympathy for the bereaved husband and family were general and heartfelt.

_________________________

New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY; The wife and children of Charles Reed have all been very ill with the scarlet fever.  The youngest child is still very sick and not expected to Live.  [Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, Nov. 14, 1878]

REED:  New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY:  The little daughter of Charles Reed of whom we spoke in last week's Union, died Tuesday night, after many days of pain and terrible suffering.  It did seem hard to see the sweet "baby face" bearing the traces of deep and bitter pain, yet we know that our Father "doeth all things well," and someday in the great life to come, we shall understand why she suffered so long, with the dark death shadow hovering over her.  But the silent "angel" at last in mercy touched the sinless brow, and the little one slept the sweet sleep of eternal blessedness.  At the midnight hour the freed spirit went up among the shiny stars to that holy life that never known anything of the pain and shadows of this wintry world.  The little baby life of a few months is ended here, but a grand, holy existence begun in the presence of God and the glorified ones.  A strange, sad silence may dwell in the vacancy of an earthly home, but here is a new place filled in heaven, and a new, sweet face, and a new angel voice joins the great melody.

Rev. Mr. Shelland conducted the funeral services of the little one and preached a short sermon from these words:  "Is it well with the child?"  The tiny casket that held the little white form was borne to the most beautiful part of the cemetery, a slight eminence among the evergreen trees, and buried from our sight.  So little Flora [Reed] escaped the long, cold winter that already is settling down upon us, as well as the "life winter," with its blight and chill.  yes, it is well with the child.

________________________

Binghamton's Dead

Within the past week, Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] has been called to mourn the death of four of its prominent citizens.

Hon. Sherman D. Phelps, one of the most public spirited and wealthy men in the city, and at one time its mayor, died on Wednesday afternoon of last week, aged sixty-four years.

Dr. Royal R. Carr a much esteemed and skillful physician, died at his residence on Wednesday, aged sixty-five years.  When a lad he resided in East German, this county [Chenango Co.].

Col. Walton Dwight, formerly proprietor of the Dwight House, died at the Spaulding House in that city, on Friday last, after an illness of six weeks of gastric fever.  he was Colonel of the Second "Bucktail" Regiment, from Ohio and was with his command in the battles of Chancellorsville, Fredericksburg and Gettysburg.  After his removal to Binghamton, he was made mayor, and his brilliant career and subsequent financial embarrassments are well known.  He carried an insurance of $258,000 upon his life, the largest amount in any one company being $30,000. His age was forty-five years.

D.C. Pugsley one of Binghamton's best-known citizens and formerly a leading merchant there, died on Sunday morning last, aged sixty-seven years.

The Crime of Myron H.C. Grant (1879)

 The Work of Myron H.C. Grant

Oneonta Herald & Democrat, Oneonta, NY, January 3, 1879

The man whose remarkable name appears at the head of this article was named for ex-Governor Myron H. Clark.  The name itself never made him very great, but recent actions have given a public character to the man, quite as disgraceful as extended.  During the summer and winter of 1877, Myron H.C. Grant worked in this office, and again in the spring of 1878.  He came here a forlorn tramp.  Appearing to be a likely young fellow and knowing that he had previously occupied a very good situation, we gave him work.  He at once manifested much Christian fervor and commended himself to the public in more ways than one.   He went in society to some extent and was quite a favorite among a certain lot of young people.

But a change came.  Recently a young lady died in this village [Oneonta, Otsego Co. NY], a bright, active, intelligent girl, against whose purity of character not a thought had been entertained until within the past few months.  For twenty-four hours, from the first moment of her illness, she lay unconscious, with occasional convulsions, and then died.  Not a word was she able to utter.  Not a friend did she recognize.  Parents were unknown to her.  After death, a diary, letter and medicines indicated that the girl had, under advice furnished by Myron H.C. Grant, attempted to produce an abortion.  Two lives were hurled into eternity through the devilish work of this man.  Two murders he committed.  On the evening of the 21st of last month, he confessed to the family of the dead girl that he "committed a terrible sin and then asked God to pardon them."  Soon after, he commenced the treatment for abortion. This young girl, pledging Grant that the matter should remain a secret between them kept all from her mother (even to the moment when deception could be carried no further), remained loyal to her seducer and he, like the worst of villains, entirely abandoned her.  He supplied medicines and all that, for he could not do less and retain the girl's confidence.

M.H.C. Grant said on the 21st that he loved the girl, and intended to marry her after a time.  He talked of his love, hoped God would sustain him and the parents in their great grief, etc. etc.  That he lied is proven by the fact that he told responsible parties even while the young lady was pregnant, that he cared nothing for her, that they were not engaged and that he did not intend to marry her.  If the girl could have lived, successfully fighting poisons and witnessed the disregard of Grant, it probably would have been established that an awful pressure was brought to bear upon her, and that the solicitations of this villain were not acquiesced in willingly.  But to the gratification of Myron H.C. Grant, the girl is dead, her child is dead, and he, unfortunately for a decent community, is alive.  Twice he has been arrested and as many times, owing to defective warrants, has been discharged.  Justice Nelson, who is usually a very careful, safe and discreet officer, made out the third warrant, which would undoubtedly have held, and Sheriff Emmons telegraphed to Binghamton for Grant's arrest, but he had flown and, as we are assured, upon advice of his counsel.

Not in years has this community been so stirred up on account of social scandal and the murderer of two persons, though technical phraseology has been allowed to save his own life.  While there is no legal punishment adequate to the enormity of the crime, Myron H.C. Grant will suffer the remainder of his days in a degree that hanging or imprisonment could furnish no comparison.

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY (1879)

 Oneonta Herald & Democrat, Oneonta, NY, January 3, 1879

Marriages

In Sidney [Delaware Co. NY] Dec. 17 by Rev. J.W. Mevis, George A. Hall of Otego [Otsego Co. NY] and Ella Van Woert of the former place.

In Kortright [Delaware Co. NY] Dec. 25, by Rev. IP. Bayles, W.T. Heudrichson and Sarah E. Henderson, both of Meredith [Delaware Co. NY].

In Croton [Westchester Co. NY], Dec. 23, by Rev. Mr. Davis, Albert Squares and Mary E. Blanchard, both of Croton.

In Hamden [Delaware Co. NY] Dec. 21, by Rev. Mr. Robinson, Wm. Bell of Delhi [Delaware Co. NY] and Mary Jack of the former place.

In Delhi [Delaware Co. NY] Dec. 24, by Rev. Mr. McAllistere, Griffin Peaster and Ellen H. Bell, both of Delhi.

In Hancock [Delaware Co. NY], Dec. 25, by Rev. H.C. Leach, Chas. H. Griffis of Delhi [Delaware Co. NY] and Ada A. [Allison] of the former place.

In West Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], Dec. 24, by Rev. T.A. Stevens, Orrin Barr of Oneonta and Annie M. Hanes of Davenport [Delaware Co. NY]

Also, Charles C. Hanes of Davenport [Delaware Co. NY] and Clarissa Walling of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY].

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] Dec. 18, by Rev. H. Brotherton, Aaron F. Enos and Laura R.  Niles.

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] Dec. 31, by Rev. H. Brotherton, Stephen R. Miller and Rhoda I. Fox. 

In Franklin [Delaware Co. NY] Dec. 25, by Rev. F.C. morgan, Marcus J. Ford and Phebe A. Bedient, both of Gilbertsville [Otsego Co. NY].

At the home of the bride on Wednesday, Dec. 26th, by Rev. A.B. Richardson of Milford, David Colwell and Annie Fox both of Colliersville, N.Y. [Otsego Co. NY].

At the residence of George Shepherd, Otego [Otsego Co. NY], by Rev. B. Bundy, Aaron Shepherd and Miss Kate Kniskern both of Otego. 

Invitations are out for the marriage of Charles Smith and Miss Lottie Bissell to occur at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.D. Bissell, Tuesday evening, Jan. 7th.

Deaths

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], January 1, Mrs. Fitch Parish.

In Hancock [Otsego Co. NY], Dec. 23, Martin Wheeler, aged 74 years.

In Meredith [Delaware Co. NY], Dec. 25, Aaron Bouton, aged 81(?) years.

In Hobart [Delaware Co. NY] Dec. 27, Mrs. C. Caroline Grant, aged 62 years.

In Roxbury [Delaware Co. NY], Dec. 25, Mrs. Sally Sherwood, aged 96 years.

A little son of Thomas McDonald, aged seven years, living about a mile and a half east of Middlefield Center [Otsego Co. NY] was kicked by a horse so severely that he died a few days since.

The widow of the late Hon. John F. Hubbard of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] died on the 29th ult.  She was a daughter of Gen. Thompson Mead, prominently connected with the early history of Chenango Co.  Ex. Senator Hubbard is the only surviving member of this family.

Milford, Otsego Co. NY:  Our village has again been visited by death.  Our much-esteemed friend, Stephen Boorn after a few weeks' sickness, has been removed and gone to join his companion and children "over there."  He was a member of the M.E. church, sustained the office of sexton, and by it had become well known and intimately related to our citizens.  His funeral was largely attended at the church Saturday, Dec. 21st, the sermon being preached from a text of his own selection.  He was a strong temperance man, a member of the Good Templars, and in view of his death the following resolutions were adopted by the lodge that:  "Whereas our beloved Brother Boorn has been removed from our society by death, therefore, Resolved, That we bow submissively to the all wise providence of our Heavenly Father and in this loss to our number recognize an incentive to still greater diligence in seeking to fill his vacant place and help forward the cause that lay near his heart.  Resolved that the lodge room be draped in mourning for thirty days and that we tender our condolence to his bereaved children.

Gilbertsville Otsego Co. NY:  Mrs. Maurice Hoag of this village, died last Sunday afternoon.  She was quite an old lady, and a member of the Presbyterian church. The funeral at the residence of her son-in-law, Henry Donaldson.  [Lovina T. Millard Hoag, d. Dec. 29, 1878]

________________________

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], December 30, Aaron Brewer, aged 95 years.

Aaron Brewer, who died in this town Monday afternoon, at the residence of his son-in-law, William Hackett, was born in Cambridge, Washington, on October 23, 1783, and was consequently 95 years of age.  With his parents, he came to this town when eight years old, and always lived near the present residence of Mr. Hackett, across the river.  He was our oldest citizen, and during a busy life had formed many strong friendships.  In Politics, Mr. Brewer was a Democrat, voting consistently and conscientiously.  He had no ambition for office and never held any.  To the last his mind remained clear and intelligent, and he dropped away as a man worn out.  He leaves three children, Mrs. Hackett, Ransom Brewer of this town and Ira Brewer of Pennsylvania.  His funeral was attended Wednesday forenoon, Rev. H. Brotherton officiating.

News Item

On the last day of the year just closed, it was our privilege to participate in a very pleasant though rare occasion.

At the residence of Rev. Allen Hayward in West Laurens [Otsego Co. NY], on the day before mentioned were gathered a small company of friends to celebrate the ninetieth anniversary of his aged mother's birthday.  A few hours were spent in social intercourse during which time several pleasing and characteristic anecdotes were related, and many incidents and facts interesting to us all were rescued from oblivion.  As we gathered about the sumptuously spread board to partake of the bounteous repast, we observed that five of the most aged ladies present were seated side by side, the aggregate of whose ages amounted to 400 years.

We afterward adjourned to another room to listen to the reading of communications from the four absent children, the oldest of whom is 72 years of age.  One of the communications was from Canada, one from Minnesota, one from Michigan and one from Delaware.  They were all of interest and all filled with love and gratitude to their aged parents, only regretting their inability to be present.  Among them was a very appropriate and touching little poem written by one of the daughters and addressed to her mother.

Mrs. Hayward, though ninety years of age, is smart and able to get about and wait upon herself and remains to a wonderful degree the use of all her faculties.  After a few remarks and prayer by Rev. T.A. Beebe the company broke up probably never more all to meet on earth again.

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY (1870)

 Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, February 9, 1870

Marriages

 At the home of the bride, Tuesday evening, eight o'clock, Feb. 1, 1870, by Rev. Jno. Pilkinton, Mr. Jno. W. Brownell of Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Maryett Chase of Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY].

At the residence of Edson Wheeler, Justice, Jan. 30th, Dr. Wm. Jacox of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] to Mrs. Ann Harris of Morris [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

Thursday morning, Feb. 3d, W.R.B. Wing was found dead in his bed, at the residence of his mother in this village [Morris, Otsego Co. NY].  Mr. Wing retired the night before at about 9 o'clock, in his usual health, and not appearing at breakfast, his sister on going to his room found him dead.  He was 42 years of age and had been in business in this village quite a number of years.  He had a good business talent and was considered one of the best druggists in the county, but his indiscretion ended his days in the prime of his manhood.

On Monday January 24th, three children of Michael Farley residing back in the country a few miles from Utica [Oneida Co. NY] were burned to death by carelessly playing with kerosene while their mother was absent from the house.  Their ages were respectively two, five and eleven years old.  One died in fifteen minutes after the accident, one in two hours and the other in three.  An infant in the cradle escaped unhurt.  The accident was caused by pouring kerosene from the can upon the stove, when a terrible explosion ensued.

Clark Stanton, who resided about one mile and a half from West Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] was found dead on the hill opposite his house, on Tuesday Feb. 1st.  He had gone on to the hill for the purpose of getting wood Monday afternoon and failing to appear at evening, a search was instituted, and his remains were found Tuesday morning.  He was a man of intemperate habits which it is said was the cause of his death.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, February 16, 1870

Marriage

At the M.E. parsonage in Laurens [Otsego Co. NY] February 3d, by Rev. J.W. Mevis, Sheldon L. Getter of Masonville [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Florilla A. Lent of Laurens.

Deaths

At Harpersville [Broome Co. NY] February 2d, Anna [Marsh] formerly of Morris [Otsego Co. NY] aged 73 years.  The funeral was attended at Friends' meeting house in Morris, and sixty relatives were present.

On Friday, Feb. 4th, while Peter Thomas and George H. Ebbard, residents of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] were rabbit hunting near the residence of Sylvester Pike in North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], the former was suddenly killed by one of those unfortunate accidents which sometimes occur.  It happened in this way:  Thomas, while passing through a cleared field adjoining the wood in which the two had been hunting, slipped upon some ice.  the gun hammer in the fall struck in such a manner as to cause both barrels to be discharged, their contents passing through his head, entering near the right eye and coming out at the back of the head, blowing portions of the skull some distance from where he was found.  His comrade hearing the report, supposed he had fired at his game. After waiting a few moments and not hearing any call, he went to where the shot was heard and found the unfortunate man lying upon his face still breathing but entirely unconscious.  A few hours later and he was dead.  Chenango Telegraph

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, February 23, 1870

Deaths

At Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] Jan. 29th, at the residence of his grandfather, Hon. Wm. C. Bently, William Calvin [Leet], only child of Dr. N.Y. and Cornelia A. Leet, aged 11 years and 5 months.

"The light of our house has departed, / For he sleeps in quiet Brookside, / And tenderly a mother weeps / For him she never on earth can view; / But memory's garland blooms for him, / Loved schoolmates speak his name with pride, / And eyes that scarce before were dimmed / Wept when my darling Willie died."

Joseph Juliand, a prominent citizen of Greene [Chenango Co. NY] and well known in the county, died at his residence in that village Sunday morning last.  Mr. Juliand went to his room Saturday night at about eleven o'clock, and as his family supposed had retired as usual to rest. The next morning, however, the attention of his son in passing the door of his father's room was arrested and entering the room he found the deceased upon the floor in an unconscious state.  A physician was immediately called, but he was already beyond relief and survived only a few minutes after he was first found. When first discovered the lamp was burning in his room and the bed had not been disturbed, a part only of his clothing was removed and everything indicated that Mr. Juliand had been suddenly stricken down, probably with apoplexy. The decreased was 73 years of age.  Oxford Times, 16th.

A correspondent of the Rep & Dem. says:  Our late Co. Clerk and esteemed fellow citizen, Stephen Estes, Esq. is no more.  He died of consumption at his residence on the 9th inst., after a lingering illness.  Few men have occupied a public position that won the confidence of the people more fully and worthily.  He was devoted and energetic in business ; prompt where duty called; a man of ardent temperament, yet judicious; a strong friend; a patriotic and public spirited citizen; radical when a public evil was to be grappled with; yet conservative when a doubtful policy was proposed; prudent in judgment and counsel, and possessing those qualities that rendered him useful in all the relations and offices he was called to fill.  A man of noble sentiment and impulses has fallen.

Vital Records, Broome County, NY (1848)

 Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, April 5, 1848

Death

In this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] March 28th, Warren C. [De Long] son of Ev. Wm. M. and Martha A. De Long, aged 8 months and 8 days.

_________________________

Died of Chronic Diarrhea in the Military Hospital at New Orleans, 21st February, 1848, John C. Wright, aged 14 years 9 months, son of the late B. Tappan Wright of this city [Cincinnati, OH] and grandson of Editor of the Cincinnati Gazette.

This youth, smitten with the pomp and pageantry of war, was a member of the late Captain Kenneally's Company, Fourth Ohio Regiment, and after several months spent on duty in Mexico, being prostrated by one of the diseases incident to the climate and the service, returned to the United States on the sick list, reaching New Orleans the 17th ult. on his way to this city.  He had enlisted before entering the Fourth Ohio, and proceeded as far as Louisville, from which place he was brought back by friends. But being infatuated with the idea of the service, and seduced from his duty, he re-enlisted and the end has been told.  The penalty is severe, but if this brief record of his error, and its consequences commend itself as it ought, to his former associates, and other youth of his years, his life, short as it was, will not have passed in vain.  The lesson is made the more impressive by the fact that he possessed traits of character which, fully and rightly developed, would have made his career in manhood one of honor and distinction.  Cincinnati Gazette.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, April 12, 1848

Marriage

On the 5th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Darby, Mr. I.G. Brookins to Miss Emily S. Young, both of this town [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY].

Deaths

In this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] on Friday the 7th inst. of consumption, Theodore A. Thayer, aged 27 years.

This melancholy event has cast a deep gloom over a numerous circle of friends, to whom the deceased was endeared by many estimable qualities of head and heart.  Upright in character, kind and amiable in feeling, sincere, honorable and courteous in intercourse, he had won the regards of all who enjoyed his acquaintance.  In his death society has lost an ornament and a member of more than common promise.  Just entering upon the active duties of life, with high hopes, noble resolves, and prospects bright and cheering, his career has been arrested at its commencement, by the destroyer.  But it is our consolation that he was not unprepared for the change - that the hopes and assurance of religion cheered and sustained him in his hour of trial.  Farewell, dear friend, though here below the hopes of thy youth are not to be realized, t though no earthly goal awaits thy race in the struggles of life, a brighter and better race is before thee, thy goal is a home in the mansions of the blest.

"Everlasting days, / Before thee dawning rise, in which to achieve / All glorious things and get thyself the name / That jealous Death too soon forbade on earth."

On Sunday his remains were committed to the tomb, after religious services by the Rev. Dr. Andrews of the Episcopal Church, attended with the imposing rites and ceremonies of the Order of Odd Fellows of which he was a member.  Binghamton Democrat

___________________________

We learn that a son of Mr. Cafferty, of Union [Broome Co. NY] in this county, was killed last Thursday by the kick of a horse upon the head.  He survived but a short time after the injury.  His skull was fractured so badly that his brains ran out.  We understand that he was 14 years of age.  Binghamton Democrat

__________________________

Death of John Apsey:  Many of our readers will recollect that this young man enlisted as a soldier in the U.S. Army some two years ago, under Lietu. Hayden, who remained some months in this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] in the recruiting service.  The following letter, addressed to his brother, by his commanding officer, gives the particulars of his death.   He age was 22 years.

Taycubays, near Mexico, Jan'y 26th, 1848:  Sir, it is with much regret, that I am compelled to inform you of the death of your brother, John Apsey, a private in my Company, who after a short illness, died in this village yesterday morning of typhoid fever.

During his service in the Company, he has conducted himself like a man and a good soldier and has given me no trouble or cause for complaint.  He was actively engaged in the battles of the 19th and 20th August and for the storming of Chapultepec he promptly volunteered as one of the "forlorn hope."  For this latter service, I have recommended him to the President for extra pay.

He had due him for pay and clothing about fifty dollars, information in regard to which, as well as to the land allowed by law, you can obtain by addressing the Adjutant General of the Army at Washington.  

I am, Sir, very respectfully, your ob't serv't.  R.W. Wessell, Capt. 2d Infantry

_________________________

Mrs. Charity Berry, the widow of a revolutionary soldier, died at New Prospect, Bergen Co., New Jersey, on the 24th March, at the extraordinary age of one hundred and ten years.  She was married during the Revolutionary war and was the mother of thirteen children, all of whom still survive!  Her eyesight never failed her until the hour of her death.

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, April 26, 1848

Marriages

In Windsor [Broome Co. NY] on the 12th inst. by the Rev. H.W. Gilbert, Mr. Calvin H. Brushy of Great Bend, Pa. to Miss Emeline [Beebe] daughter of Lyman Beebe, of the former place.

Also, in the same place and by the same, Mr. James Blowers, of Sidney, N.Y. [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Sally M. Bates of Colesville, N.Y. [Broome Co.]

In Vestal [Broome Co. NY] on the 22d inst. by the Rev. Mr. Dana, Mr. William La Grange and Miss Deborah Reed all of Vestal.

Deaths

On Sunday the 23d inst. Mrs. McIntosh wife of Mr. J.B. McIntosh, aged 59 years.

In this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] on Tuesday last, Lovina [Rose] daughter of James and Hannah Rose, aged 5 months.

_______________________

In Union [Broome Co. NY] on the 13th inst. Mr. Marverick Jenison in the 68th year of his age.

He was a native of Worcester Co., Ms.  He removed to Berkshire Co in his early manhood, where he resided, first at Stockbridge and afterwards at Bennington, until his removal to this place, eleven years ago.  He long enjoyed uninterrupted good health and retained, in a remarkable degree, down to the day of his decease the vigor and activity of his earlier years.  His death was sudden and violent.  Some men in his employ were using a machine for drawing stumps.  He went out to carry them refreshments and while he was passing near the machine, a detached part of it with a heavy chain, fell on and crushed him.  He lingered awhile without the power of speech and probably without consciousness and expired fourteen hours after the accident.  He has been for many years a follower of the Saviour.  Few, if any, have ever more happily exemplified the quiet, unobtrusive charities of the Christian life.  His purposes were always prudently taken and followed out with persevering industry, yet he labored not for himself alone, but for his family, for his neighbors, for the Church, and for the community.  The Master blessed him in the accomplishment of the designs of his heart.  He lived with the wife of his youth, who survives him, to rear to mature years a family of nine, and to rejoice over them all save one, as the followers of the Saviour whom he had loved from his youth.  A useful man has passed from among us to the spirit world.  May the remembrance of his virtues exert a salutary influence on the character of the living.

___________________________

In this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] on the 21st inst. Ezekiel Ronk, aged 62 years.

The following particulars as to the cause of his death have been related to us:  About a week before his death, he came to this village from his residence, which is about 4 miles out, and stopped at the house of his son overnight.  He lodged in the chamber and arose early in the morning, before it was sufficiently light to see, and walked off the stairway, where there was no railing.  The injuries received from the fall were so serious that he lingered until the 21st and expired.  Binghamton Democrat.

Pioneer Cemetery, Sidney, Delaware County, NY (1905)

 In Honor of Our Dead

A Plea for our Pioneer Graveyard - A Plea that should be Answered by All

Sidney Record, Sidney, NY, April 15, 1905

An effort is being made to put in order the Pioneer Graveyard on the riverbank opposite the silk mill.  In this spot lie the mortal remains of a great number of the noble, hardy and enterprising men and women who in the last quarter of the 18th century brought civilization to the upper valley of the Susquehanna.  The earliest inscription now traceable is 1757.

Here are buried the widow of Rev. William Johnston, the first settler; Col. Witter Johnston and Capt. Hugh Johnston, sons of the Rev. Johnston and Revolutionary War officers; Judge Levi Baxter, and his sons, early settlers and large lumber manufacturers about Carr's Creek; Deacon Israel Smith, first deacon of the Congregational Church and grandfather of President Hayes; Capt. Moses Hovey, the Revolutionary veteran who in 1810-'12 built the State road from Unadilla to Oxford; "Esquire" Avery, whose farm in  the early days covered pretty nearly all our present village lying east of Main Street; William Dovener who gave the land for the 'meetinghouse" and school where now the Congregational church stands [in 1905]; Samuel Rogers the deaf and lame shoemaker-farmer lived in the town of Unadilla, he acted as Sidney's first lawyer, drawing up wills, deeds and surveying farms, his son Hon. Chas. Rogers; Ezra Clark, farmer, father of  Hon. Henry A. Clark of Bainbridge; the Mersereau's, McMaster's, Bacon's, Redfield's, Belnap's, Cotton's, Skinner's and others most of whom have no descendants in this region.

The appeal for funds to defray the expenses of redeeming and putting the old and long disused graveyard in respectable condition has mainly been made to relatives of the pioneers who live at a distance.

It is judged necessary to raise $2,000. Less than $1,000 is in hand and promised.  Will not our local population find it in their hearts to give liberally to this good cause?

The plot is 200x175 feet.  In the northeast corner next to the river a triangular space 70 feet on Clark Street and 23 feet on west line, there are no graves.  In this space are the Congregational Church sheds, but little used in late years and badly dilapidated.  In old days these were between the church and the river.  It is believed they are simply trespassers where they are. Shell they not be taken away.  That space neatly graded and decorated would give our village a needed embellishment.  We have not an inch of park,  This spot could be made a joy forever.

Respectfully yours, one of the grandchildren of the pioneers.  P.K.

Vital Records, Delaware (1830) & Otsego (1849) Counties, NY

 Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, June 23, 1930

Marriages

In this village [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] on the morning of the 17th inst. by the Rev. E.K. maxwell, Mr. Daniel Abel, merchant of Cincinnati, Ohio, to Miss Julia Goodman, daughter of Simeon Goodman, Esq. of the former place.

At the joyous wedding festival, the Editor is too often forgotten, though always called on to perform his part by announcing the happy event to the world.  On this occasion, However, an innovation has been made upon the established custom, and we have been presented not only with a liberal share of wedding cake, but also with a bottle wine.  We take this opportunity of acknowledging the favor and tendering our thanks to the donors with the assurance that they have our best wishes for many a year of uninterrupted happiness.

In Kortright [Delaware Co. NY] on the 21st inst. by Elder David Millard, Mr. Jerome Putnam to Miss Harriet Kiff both of that town.

News Item

Epitaphs:  Next to the famous epitaph on the tomb of Leonidas at Thermophylae, that to be seen over the grave of Push-ma-ta-ha, the Indian chief who died at Washington a few years ago is to our taste felicitously simple, characteristic and expressive.  That of Leonidas, "Stop Stranger! You tread on the ashes of a Hero!" was the fruit of a philosopher's study.  Poor Push-ma-ta-ha is simply the last words he ever spoke - "When I am gone, fire the big guns over me."  Had learning and genius been invoked to the task, we question if they could have acquitted themselves so happily.  Richmond Whig.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, June 30, 1830

Death

At his residence in the village of Unadilla, Otsego County [NY] on the 26th of June instant, Roswell Wright, Esq. aged 44 years.  Mr. W. has been a long time afflicted with illness but has continued to be an active and prosperous man of business until a late period.  He was a most worthy citizen and highly esteemed through an extensive circle of acquaintance.  His death is indeed a loss to the community he belonged to and an afflicting bereavement to an interesting family.

Elopement

Whereas my wife Roxy [Skinner] has left my bed and board without just cause or provocation; this is to forbid all persons trusting her, as I will pay no debts of her contracting after this date.  Anson Skinner Franklin [Delaware Co. NY] June 9, 1830.

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, November 3, 1849

Marriages

In Clarksville [Otsego Co. NY] on the 21st ult, by Rev. H.A. Smith, Mr. Theodore Slauson of Clarksville to Miss Anna V. Parshall of Flint, Mich.

In Springfield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 21st ult. by John W. Brandow, Esq. Mr. David Doolittle Jr. of Springfield to Miss Eliza Taylor of Warren, Herkimer County [NY].

In Clarksville [Otsego Co. NY], on the 14th ult. by the Rev. Mr. Picksly, Mr. Julius P. Thayer of Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Tacy Bates of Waterville [Oneida Co. NY].

Deaths

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] on the 29th ult. Catharine [Peck], daughter of Mr. Daniel Peck, aged 19 years.

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] on the evening of the 31st ult.  Mr. William H. Smith aged 19 years.  Our young friend was cut down in the midst of his years, and of the hopes of those who loved him.  His character for steadiness and candor, combined with his strictly religious habits, gave an earnest to all who knew him of a life of usefulness.  He gave much time to the improvement of his own mind and the interest he took in the religious education of those younger than himself formed a worthy example for the imitation of very many of more years than he numbered.   His uniformly devoted life, as well as his truly peaceful death, warrant us in the conclusion that our loss is his endless gain.  We hope the language of this Providence will prove an effectual warning to the living and especially to those of his years to prepare to meet their God. Then his early departure from the scenes of earth and sorrows which attend bereavement will not have been in vain.  

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, November 10, 1849

Marriage

In Christ Church in this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY] on the 7th inst. by the Rev. S.H. Ballin, Mr. W. A. Comstock to Miss Lousia Bourne all of this village.

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, November 17, 1849

Marriage

In Milford [Otsego Co. NY] on the 4th inst. by the Rev. J .T .Wright, Mr. David Petrie to Maria Van Slyke both of Hopeville.

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, November 24, 1849

Marriage

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], on the 18th instant by the Rev. G.W. Gates Mr. John C.  Hunter to Miss Harriet Wickham, both of Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY].

Death

In Pierstown [Otsego Co. NY] on the 21st instant, Ann Adelaide [Warren] daughter of Russell and Jane Warren, aged 8 years and 16 days.  During the last hours of her illness which were extremely painful, she displayed unusual brilliancy of mind and affection to the family who mourn her loss, and it is believed that:

She died before her priceless soul / Had burnt with wrong desires / Had ever spurned at Heaven's control, / Or ever quenched its sacred fires.

She died to sin; she died to care; / Bur for a moment felt the rod; / Then, rising on the viewless air, / Spread her light wings and soared to God.