Hayes Family Diplomats in Spain - 1944

Hayes Family Busy Diplomats in Spain

Bainbridge News & Republican, April 27, 1944

 

The following is from the "Waterbury Republican" published Sunday morning, Apr. 2, 1944 and written by Charles S. Foltz, special correspondent.

 

Madrid:  When President Roosevelt appointed Carlton J.H. Hayes to be ambassador to Spain in 1942 he didn't name just one ambassador, he named four.

 

Boss ambassador is, of course, the one Mr. Roosevelt chose--an author, historian and political theorist of world reputation.  Hayes, a Catholic, seemed a good choice to Spaniards when he arrived five months after Pearl Harbor.  With him came Mrs. Hayes, energetic, capable and modern, a leader in her own right in American Women's organizations; Mary Elizabeth Hayes then 18; and Carroll Hayes, a lithe boy of 16 with all an American youngster's likes, enthusiasms and hobbies.

 

In that spring of 1942, the position of a new ambassador of the United States in Spain was not neutral but nonbelligerent. German troops were on Spain's Pyrenees frontier and the Spanish Blue Legion fought on the Russian front.  Corregidor had fallen and the Axis was boasting about the imminent fall of Alexandria.  The Allied policy toward Spain was designed to do everything possible toward Franco's reported desire to keep this country out of the war.  Spain's position was of tremendous importance to the Allied plans--how tremendous was obvious only after American occupation of French North Africa, the next November.  Hayes went to work on that basis and so did the whole Hayes family.

 

"I am by profession, sir, a  historian" Hayes told Franco when he presented his credentials, and he might had added:  "Neither I nor my family are professional diplomats--we're here to do a wartime job."  Franco said he too was "confident of the benefits to be derived from economic interchanges" between the United States and Spain."  He went further than usual when he offered Hayes "my own and my government's friendship and sincere cooperation."

 

Hayes set out to meet and tell the American story to as many influential Spaniards of all types as possible to make friends where there had been only enemies, to make contacts where there had been none.

 

While the Ambassador organized the embassy, Mrs. Hayes organized the embassy wives.  Save for a small group of Spanish aristocrats, the embassy social contacts with Spaniards were limited.  Mrs. Hayes mobilized the wives of both embassy and colony--there were less than 10 American women in the whole American colony of Madrid--into a team which abandoned its social contacts with each other and set out to know Spaniards and more Spaniards. 

 

Mary Elizabeth helped and so did Carroll.  Before Mary Elizabeth returned to Barnard college in the Fall she had a whole group of Spanish friends her own age.  Through her friends, her parents met their parents.  Carroll stayed in Madrid and went to a Spanish school, the Colegio de Nuestra Senora Del Pilar.  Mary Elizabeth rides horseback with one group, plays tennis with another, goes to the University of Madrid with still another.  Frequently she was hostess at the embassy for her friends and frequently Carroll was host to his friends.  One of Carroll's companions was the young Duke of Veragua, and Christopher Columbus, descendant of the admiral and now a cadet in Spain's naval academy.  Carroll's enthusiasm was aviation and through it he met many a young Spaniard, the sons of high army and navy officers, high government officials, leading aristocrats.  During school vacations, Carroll worked in the railroad yards delivering and receiving embassy shipments.  He worked at the airport on the naval attache's plane with the Spanish mechanic.  He spent several weeks as a working guest in the Monastery of Montserrat near Barcelona, a Benedictine colony will known in Spain.

 

French refugees by the thousands poured across the Pyrenees frontiers into Spain shortly after the Hayes family arrived.  Few had proper clothes.  Not long after the U.S. entered the war, escaped American prisoners, most of them aviators, crossed the mountains too.  Mrs. Hayes organized the women of the embassy and the colony to knit and sew clothes for them.  The summer house in the embassy garden was filled with dozens of sewing machines where American women and their Spanish friends worked for hours each afternoon.

 

The Hayes are seldom alone for lunch or dinner.  But there's always one meal together, breakfast, at which the family--now three because Carroll has returned to the States--pools news and activities of the day before. 

 

Such teamwork spread the Hayes family all over Madrid.  Perhaps the ambassador is busy working nights in the embassy and can't go to this reception or that--Mary Elizabeth will be there.  Perhaps the ambassador should be--but can't call--on one of his Spanish friends--Mrs. Hayes makes the call instead.  Perhaps the ambassador hasn't heard from this Spanish high official in an long time--Carroll calls on the friend's son.  So it went. Spain's policy has changed now, from nonbelligrency to neutrality, and things are better for Americans than they once were.

 

The whole Hayes family, like all the other diplomats of the American embassy, is well aware that the main reason for this change is not diplomacy but military events.  But Spaniards are equally well aware of the importance of the "breakfast table" teamwork of the four American "ambassadors" in Madrid.

 



Obituaries (November 12)

Fred D. Kirkland

The funeral of Fred D. Kirkland was held from Colwell's funeral chapel Wednesday afternoon at 3 o'clock, just one week from the day he was taken to the Bainbridge  hospital.  He passed away Monday morning from streptococcus infection.  Deceased was the youngest son of Lewis L. and Linna Riley Kirland, having been born in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], September 7, 1916.  His death came as a great shock to the whole community as he was quite generally known and liked.  For more than a year he had worked for Moritz Roehlk on his milk delivery route here.  Fred was a member of the senior class of Bainbridge Central High school and was the joke editor of the "Echo," the publication issued annually by the seniors.  By diligent work he had all of his material prepared and ready for publication.  The funeral was largely attended, both the chapel and the furniture-room adjoining were filled.  Twenty-two of his classmates with Professor F.J. Casey attended in a body. There was a profusion of flowers, including many beautiful pieces, among which were pieces from the high school, the faculty, the senior class, and the Bixby street neighbors.  The officiating clergyman was Rev. Clarence Carman, pastor of the first Methodist Episcopal Church, assisted by John H. Fowler, acting pastor of the Baptist Church.   The bearers were schoolmates of the deceased, Clinton Wilcox, Kenneth Davis, Roy Robinson, Rolland Bluler, Max Stevens and Joseph Throop.  The body was placed in the vault at Greenlawn cemetery [Bainbridge, NY].  His parents, one brother, Ward D. Kirkland, and one sister, Miss Irene Linna Kirkland survive.  Among those attending the funeral from out-of-town were friends and relatives from Oxford, Afton, Binghamton, Norwich, Sidney, Utica and Newark Valley.  [1932]

 

Nellie M. (Burns) Ferguson

Nellie M. Ferguson passed away Thursday, Sept. 20, at the old Ferguson homestead, on Searles Hill [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], now occupied by her daughter and husband, Mr. and Mrs. Howard Bliss, and with whom she had made her home for the past seven years since the death of her husband, George Ferguson.  Mrs. Ferguson was born on May 16, 1862, in Carbondale, Pa., the only child of Mr. and Mrs. James Burns.  Her parents came with her to Bainbridge when she was a small child, and a few years later both passed away, leaving her to the care of an aunt, Mrs. Alexander Ireland, of Searles hill.  On Feb. 14, 1883, she was married to George Ferguson and their many years of prosperity and happiness were spent on farms on Searles Hill.  She possessed a fine sense of humor and a genial disposition which made a host of friends who mourn her loss.  Surviving are her daughter and only child, Mrs. Howard Bliss, and one grandson, Newton.  Two cousins, Mrs. Ardell Sweet, of Bainbridge, and Mrs. Carrie Loomis, of Sidney, also survive.  The funeral was held Saturday afternoon in the funeral chapel of Colwell Brothers, West Main street, Rev. M. DeForest Lowen, pastor of the First Baptist chruch, of which Mrs. Ferguson was a regular attendant, was present, but unable to conduct the service on account of a severe cold.  Reg. V. H. Orvis, pastor of the Frist Presbyterian Church, officiated for him, and interment was made in Greenlawn Cemetery [Bainbridge, NY].  The bearers, all nephews of the late husband, were Lewis Kirkland, George Myers and Chauncey Norton, of Bainbridge, and Clarence Smith of Otego.  [1934]

 

Mrs. Orson Thorp

The people of Bainbridge were inexpressibly shocked Tuesday morning to learn of the death of Mrs. Orson Thorp, at the Bainbridge Hospital Monday evening.  Mrs. Thorp had submitted to a major operation at that institution early the preceding week and following the operation her condition was considered very satisfactory and an early recovery was looked forward to.  But complications set in and late in the week it became known that in all probability she could not live.  Mrs. Thorp was one of the most popular of the younger women of this community, an indefatigable worker in the Presbyterian Church, of which she has been an active member since she came to Bainbridge thirteen years ago, and being possessed of a charming personality and great friendliness of spirit she made many friends who sincerely regret her untimely passing.  Mrs. Thorp, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. M.B. Shelton, was born September 11, 1897, in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].  She attended the Sidney High School and was for a number of years employed at the Sidney Department Store in that village.  July 26, 1920, she was married to Orson Thorp and came to live in this village, where her husband was interested in the garage business.  She is survived by her husband, her mother, Mrs. Shelton, and a sister, Mrs. V.N. Killen, of Philadelphia.  Funeral services will be held this (Thursday) afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Colwell Chapel, in West Main street, with the pastor of the Presbyterian Church, Rev. H.G. Orvis, officiating, and interment will be in Greenlawn cemetery [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].

 

Nellie (Parsons) DePugh

Mrs. Nellie DePugh, wife of Eli H. DePugh, died February 4th, at her home 11 Hall avenue, Somerville, Mass., aged 62 years.  Mrs. DePugh was born in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], the daughter of John D. Parsons and Abigail White Parsons.  She is survived by her husband, two daughters, Mrs. A.W. Davis, of Sharon, Mass., and Mrs. A. Frank Green, Somerville, Mass. and two sisters, Mrs. Emma Green, of Sidney, and Mrs. C.T. Waters, of Oneonta.  The funeral service was held at her home in Somerville, Mass. Saturday February 6th, Rev. William H. Dyas, officiating.  The committal service was held in the chapel at Greenlawn cemetery, Bainbridge, Sunday at 12:30 o'clock.  Rev. John Fowler, assistant pastor of the Baptist Church this village, officiating.  This service was largely attended by relatives and friends.  A profusion of floral tributes from  her church, friends, relatives and various organizations, of which she was a member.  [1932]

 

Margaret Emily (Davidson) Youngs

Mrs. Margaret Emily Youngs, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Davidson, of this village, passed away early Saturday morning at the Binghamton State Hospital, following a short illness and an operation.  Mrs. Youngs, who had been employed at the hospital for some time, was taken ill about two weeks previously and medical aid was unable to save her.  Mrs. Youngs was born on Feb. 20, 1906, in Scotland, and at the age of 2 years, with her parents and family, came to this country, and in 1918 they took up their residence in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]. A private funeral was held Monday afternoon in the funeral chapel of Colwell brothers, West Main street, with the Rev. G.H. Orvis, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, officiating, and interment was made in Greenlawn cemetery [Bainbridge, NY].  Besides her parents, she is survived by three brothers, William and Thomas, of Bainbridge and John, of Troy.  [1934]

Kenneth Westfall

Kenneth Westfall, 38, of Nineveh [Broome Co., NY], died Saturday night in the Binghamton City Hospital.  He is survived by his widow, Doreen; two sons; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Westfall, of Nineveh; a brother, Leon Westfall, of the Armed Forces; and a sister, Miss Mary Westfall, of Nineveh.  Funeral services were held at Colwell's Chapel, Bainbridge Wednesday afternoon.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Dec. 23, 1943]

Emily (Davis) Wakefield

Emily C. Wakefield, wife of Adelbert Wakefield, passed away at her home in Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], on Tuesday, Dec. 14, after a brief illness.  She was born 66 years ago May 23, 1877 , at Masonville [Delaware Co., NY], daughter of Lettie A. Shear and Eugene S. Davis.  The past 12 years of her life had been spent in Mt. Upton.   Final rites were held Thursday at 2 o'clock, with Colwell Bros. of Bainbridge, in charge.  Burial was at Afton [Chenango Co., NY].  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Dec. 23, 1943]

Gilbert Palmer

Saturday, Dec. 18, occurred the death of Gilbert G. Palmer, oldest resident in Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY].  Born on Jan. 31, 1857, nearly 87 years ago in the town, where he had spent his entire life.  He was the son of Rebecca R. Winn and Gilbert R. Palmer, Sr.  Final rites were held on Tuesday, Dec. 21, with Paul D. Mortican, of Gilbertsville, in charge.  The Rev. Charles W. Dempsey, pastor of Guilford and Mt. Upton Methodist Churches, had the service.  Burial in Mt. Upton. [Bainbridge news & Republican, Dec. 23, 1943] 

George Fellows

George Fellows, a former Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] resident, passed away at the home of his son in Vestal [Broome Co., NY] on Friday, Dec. 17.  He had been in ill health a long time, and had reached the age of 79 years.  Services were held from the Seymour Funeral Home in Oxford on Sunday, Dec. 20, at 2 p.m. with the Rev. J.W.Bump of Guilford, officiating.  Several children survive besides the widow.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Dec. 23, 1944]

Soldier News continued - 1944

Lt. Stephen Simpson Prisoner of War

Bainbridge News & Republican, April 20, 1944

Mr. and Mrs. G.A. Simpson, of Lakewood, Pa., have received word from the War Department that their son, Lieut. Stephen J. Simpson, is a prisoner of war in Germany.

 

Pvt. Burdette Davie Killed in Action

Bainbridge News & Republican, April 13, 1944

 

News of the death of Pvt. Burdette H. Davie, paratrooper serving in Italy, has been received in a telegram to his father, Harold Davie, of Sidney Center [Delaware Co., NY].  The telegram stated that Private Davie was killed in action in Italy Feb. 27.

 

Douglas Swift Killed in Action

Bainbridge News & Republican, April 20, 1944

 

Douglas E. Swift, 20, son of Mr. and Mrs. Avery E. Swift, Montrose [PA], was reported this week killed in action in Italy Feb. 15.  Private Swift was a native of Castle Creek, where he was born May 17, 1923.  When a small boy, his family moved to Whitney Point and he attended the public school.  The family moved to Montrose in 1939 and he completed his high school education there, graduating in the Class of 1940.  Nov. 4, 1941, he enlisted in the U.S. Coast Artillery, and later he joined the paratroops.

 

Pvt. Herbert Brigham Expert in Infantry Warfare

Bainbridge News & Republican, April 20, 1944

 

Headquarters, European Theatre of Operations:  A group of United States soldiers who learned about land mines and booby-traps the hard way--by bucking them in the deserts and mountain passes and captured towns of North Africa--have arrived in England to help train other troops.  The soldiers are experts in all phases of infantry warfare, particularly in reconnaissance missions.  Some of the men were in the African campaign from the very start; the others were in the thick of battle only a few weeks after the initial landings.

 

A few of the men were on detached service from their regular units and assigned to the Atlantic Fleet Amphibious Corps just before the invasion of Africa.  They crossed the Atlantic in a tiny submarine, transferred to a rubber boat several miles off shore, and paddled under cover of darkness to the entrance of the harbor at Safi, French Morocco, where they lighted flares to guide the attacking destroyers into the harbor.  "Messerschmidt Lane" was the name the soldiers gave to one sector in which they had the job of removing mines and booby-traps impeding American progress while enemy planes bombed and strafed them incessantly.

 

Reconnaissance men are the eyes and ears of a main body of troops, and it is their primary function to learn the strength and disposition of enemy units.  These men, therefore, are the "Indian scouts" of a modern army, trained in stealthy movements and in dealing sudden and silent death to enemy outpost guards.  Often, to accomplish their missions, the reconnaissance troopers had to infiltrate behind enemy forward lines, through unfamiliar territory and heavily mined fields.

 

In the group of these African-trained men who have come to Great Britain to impart their knowledge to troops, is Pvt. Herbert W. Brigham, 20, of Rockdale [Chenango Co, NY]

 

Sgt. Amos Hill Achieves Record

Bainbridge News & Republican, April 12, 1944

 

Sgt. Amos Hill, airplane mechanic stationed in England is proud of the record of the 8th A.A.F. Flying Fortress "Hard Luck" for the bomber's record-breaking performance of 503 combat hours without an engine or supercharger change during 41 attacks on Nazi Europe, according to reports from his base.  A former automobile racer, Sgt. Hill was employed at Demeree's Garage in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], before he became a member of the fort's proud ground crew.

 

Lt. Edward Luckenbach Awarded Wings

Bainbridge News & Republican, April 20, 1944

 

Edward A. Luckenbach, son of Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Luckenbach of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], received his wings as a pilot in the U.S. Army Air Forces at the graduation exercises at Frederick Army Air Field, Okla. Saturday.  Lieut. Luckenbach received his training at Victory Field, Texas; Majors Field, Texas; and Frederick Army Air Field.  The B-24 pilot, served in the regular Army 1935-36-37, and was living in Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY] at the time he entered the Air Corps a year ago.  he will report at Fort Worth Air Base, Fort Worth, Texas, on April 27.  Lieut. Luckenbach and his wife and little daughter, of Oneonta, are spending several days at the home of his parents. 

 

Guilford Roll of Honor Dedicated

Bainbridge News & Republican, April 27, 1944

 

At a very impressive service, the Roll of Honor bearing the names of Guilford's young men and women in the armed forces of the United States was dedicated, Sunday afternoon at 3 o'clock.  the dedication service was scheduled to take place on the green beside the Roll of Honor, recently placed, but stormy weather made it impossible to have the service out of doors so Christ church was chosen and all quietly passed into the church and paid honor to the American youth whose names are on the Roll of Honor.  Opposite the name of Roland McPherson there is a gold star showing one of our own boys has already made the supreme sacrifice.  Walter Thielke, in a very capable and sincere manner, presented the program. The Boy Scouts, under their leader, George Sherman, presented the colors; the Rev. J.W. Bump offered an opening prayer; this was followed by the reading of the  81 names on the Roll of Honor.  During the service the first verses of the Star Spangled Banner and Onward Christian Soldiers were sung.  County Judge Frank Barnes, of Norwich, was chosen speaker on this occasion.  His message was well chosen.  A man who served as a lieutenant in the AA.F. in World War I, he knew whereof he spoke.  As a father, who has a son serving somewhere in New Guinea, his message reached the parents, whose sons' names appeared on the roll.  The Rev. J.W. Bump offered a closing prayer, taps were sounded by the bugler.  Pictures were taken and, together with the account of the dedication service, will appear in certain papers, and a copy will be forwarded to each of our boys and one girl in whose honor this roll was placed, and so dedicated.

 

 

 

 

Marriages (November 11)

Grotsinger - Harrison

Mr. & Mrs. Harry Grotsinger

Grotsinger - Richardson

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Grotsinger

A Double Wedding - Twice Happy Nuptial Event Which Occurred in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The Broad Street M.E. Church was the scene of a twice happy event on Saturday, when the pastor, Rev. Wilson Treible, celebrated a double marriage ceremony, uniting in close harmony four human hearts.  One of the couples was composed of Harry J. Grotsinger, of Norwich, and Blanche P. Harrison, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Merlin L. Harrington, of South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], formerly of Norwich, and the other was the groom's brother, Joseph Grotsinger, and Maud E. Richardson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Richardson, of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].  The grooms are sons of Mr. and Mrs. August Grotsinger, who reside a short distance south of this village on the Oxford road, and they and their brides are highly respected.  Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Grotsinger will reside at the Grotsinger family  homestead for the present, and Mr. and Mrs. Harry J. Grotsinger will make their home with the bride's parents, near South New Berlin.  [about 1905]

Peck - Dean

A pretty nuptial ceremony took place Friday afternoon at 4 o'clock in the First Methodist Episcopal church at Amsterdam [Montgomery Co., NY] when Charlotte Alberta Dean, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. Homer Dean of that city, was united in marriage to Charles Wellington Peck of Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY], son of A. Wellington Peck of Peck's Park, Gloversville.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. Ernest Franklyn Tripp, pastor of the church, in the presence of a large number of relatives and friends.  The church was attractively decorated with palms and cut flowers.  the "Bridal Chorus" from "Lohengrin" was played as the bridal party entered the church.  Throughout the ceremony Mrs. Foster Heaxt, organist, played "I Love You Truly," and "Oh Promise Me."  The bride, who was given in marriage by her father, wore a long gown of white point d'esprit over crepe and satin.  Her veil of tulle had a lace cap embroidered in pearls and was caught with orange blossoms.  She carried a bouquet of white Angelus roses and orchids with showers of swainsona and sweetheart buds.  At the conclusion of the ceremony Mendelssohn's wedding march from "Midsummer Night's Dream" was played.  Miss Dorothy M. Warner was maid of honor.  Her gown was of yellow point d'esprit, with picture hat to match.  She carried a bouquet of Mrs. Coolidge roses. The best man was Albert T. Peck, brother of the bridegroom.  The ushers were:  Frank E. Dean and John C. Gordon, cousin and brother-in-law of the bride.  The bride's mother was attired in a gown of tan georgette and lace, with corresponding hat and slippers. She wore a shoulder bouquet of pink roses.  The bride presented her attendant an aquamarine dinner ring, and the bridegroom gave his best man a fountain pen, while the ushers received billfolds and the bride a white gold wrist watch.  Following the ceremony a reception for the immediate families and relatives was held at the Plymouth at Cranesville.  Later Mr. and Mrs. Peck left by automobile for a wedding trip through the New England states and to New York city.  After August  10 they will be at home at their newly furnished apartment at 25 Higlin street, Oneonta.  The bride is a graduate of the Amsterdam High school class of 1926, and was a member of the K.E. sorority.  In 1929 she was graduated from the Coblekill Training School for Teachers.  Since then she has been teaching at Switzer [-?-] The bridegroom attended Gloversville Business school.  He is now connected with the Jerry B. Wilson Roofing company of Oneonta.  The bride was the recipient of many gifts of gold, silverware, glassware, electrical appliances and the like and was also the honor guest at numerous prenuptial affairs.  [1931]

Death Notices - Bainbridge Republican

January 27, 1877
SEELEY - POST:  At the house of the bride, in Coventry, by Rev. N.S. Reynolds, Jan. 24th, Mr. Francis T. Seeley, and Miss Ida E. Post, all of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY].

February 10, 1877
RAMSDELL - FLETCHER:  At the home of the bride in East Guilford [Chenango Co., nY], Feb. 6, 1877, by Rev. E.G. Cheesman, Mr. Chauncey Ramsdell, of Hamilton and Miss Sarah A. Fletcher.

LEONARD - STEVER:  At the home of the bride, Feb. 8, 1877, by Rev. DN. Grummon, John M. Leonard and Miss Hattie Stever, both of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

March 3, 1877
SMITH - BURTON:  At the M.E. Parsonage, Bainbridge, Feb. 14, 1877, by Rev. N.S. Reynolds, Levern Smith and Miss Florence E. Burton, both of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]

CHRISTIAN - LYON:  In Bainbridge, Feb. 25th, 1877, by Rev.  N.S. Reynolds, Madison E. Christian of Afton [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Emma Lyon, of Union Valley [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].

LANDFAIR - BROOKENS:  At the M.E. Parsonage, Bainbridge, Feb. 25th, 1877, by Rev. N.S. Reynolds, Amsa A. Landfair and Miss Lisetina P. Brookens, both of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

KNEFF - FRENCH:  In Guilford, Feb. 18, 1877, by Rev. T.P. Halsted, Mr. Samuel J. Kneff of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], to Mrs. Betsey French of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

ALLEN - INGERSOLL:  At the residence of D.W. Ingersoll, Constantia, Oswego county, N.Y., Feb. 27, 1877, by Rev. Geo. D.  Horton of Bainbridge, Mr. Norman C. Allen and Miss Alice L. Ingersoll, both of Constantia.

Obituaries (November 11)

Miss Zilpha Bruce

The going of Miss Zilpha Bruce is deeply felt by the members of the W.C.T.U. in which organization she has always been ready to serve in any way she could.  For several years she carried the responsibilities of president, secretary and treasurer and so saved the life of the union.  At the last meeting, the following tribute to her memory was read by Miss Ensworth and it was voted that copies of the same be sent to Miss Bruce's sisters and to the Bainbridge Republican. 

Zilpha Bruce is dead.  No, she is not dead; only her earthly abode has passed its day of usefulness.  The prison bars have been broken and the spirit is set free.  And while we can no longer look into her face and feel the clasp of her hand, still we can hear her challenge, "Carry on!"  "She hath done what she could" and we can pay her no higher tribute than to grasp the torch from her Master and ours.

We sought to express in some measure our feeling of loss and appreciation with flowers.  But the flowers will wither and die, even as the earthly body we had learned to love because of the soul which it housed.  They must all pass away, but the deeds we do shall bear fruit and live even as the soul.  And so we can pay her no greater tribute than to promote the work which was so close to her heart.  Nothing would give her greater joy than for us to erect to her memory a living monument of membership in the W.C.T.U., in this union which owes its life to her in the years when there was no one else willing to shoulder the responsibility necessary to keep it alive.  Surely we can, we will each one of us step forth with willingness to do our little part of that work which she has more than once attempted to do alone.  [March 7, 1929]

Emma Cole Fosbury

Emma Cole was the eldest daughter of Albert and Hannah Bentley Cole.  She was born September 18, 1841, at the Cole homestead in the town of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], now owned by Walter Weeks.  She was married Oct. 12, 1864, to Franklin B. Fosbury, of Bainbridge, who passed away January 17, 1920.  Their entire wedded life, except one year in Charles City, Iowa, was spent at West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the F.B. Fosbury farm.  Since his death, she had lived with the two daughters, who tenderly cared for her in her feeble health and declining years.  Besides the two daughters, Mrs. Ransom Herrick and Mrs. Walter Hamilton, she is survived by one sister, Mrs. G.L. Pratt, of Cooperstown, besides nieces, nephews and cousins.  her last sickness was of short duration, but severe--grippe, pneumonia and at last the heart.  She passed away October 26, 1929, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Walter Hamilton.  Funeral services were held at the home of Mrs. Ransom Herrick Wednesday, October 30th, with burial at Union Valley cemetery [West Bainbridge, NY], beside her husband.  Services were conducted by her pastor, Rev. Ernest Colwell, assisted by a former pastor, Rev Arthur Landmesser, of Crescent, N.Y.  She was a member of the Union Valley Methodist church for many years.  Her faith was strong in her Saviour, who doeth all things well.  Since the death of her husband, she had just been waiting the summons to meet the loved ones.  The large attendance at the funeral and the beautiful floral tributes showed the esteem in which this aged lady was held. 

Diana Sulley Priest

Mrs. Augustus Priest, oldest resident of this village, passed quietly away on Monday morning, November 5th [1934], at her home in Kirby street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], at the advanced age of 96 years.  Diana Sulley Priest was born on Oct. 6, 1838, in Madison county, and when she was a young girl her parents moved West, leaving her in the care of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Neff, of Hamilton.  As a young lady, she went to live at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Stiles Curtis, of Solsville, and it was there she met and married Augustus Priest, of Masonville, in the year 1861.  Mr. and Mrs. Priest then lived for about a year with his parents in Masonville, coming to Bainbridge in 1865, and since that item Mrs. Priest has been a resident of this village.  To Mr. and Mrs. Priest were born three sons, Charles, Herbert and Curtis.  Both Charles and Curtis passed away several years ago, leaving Herbert, with whom she had always lived, the only survivor of the family.  Mrs. Priest was known by her friends as a kind neighbor, always willing and ready to serve in times of need, and to her family she was a devoted wife and mother, her chief interest in life being the care of her home.  While during the past few months she had failed in health, she was always pleased to receive the calls of her close friends and was interested in the happenings of the day.  A kind and worthy citizen has completed her life, leaving behind friends and family to mourn their loss.  The funeral was held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock at her late home, Rev. Jesse Dickerson, pastor of the Methodist Episcopal Church, officiating.  Interment was made in Greenlawn cemetery [Bainbridge, NY]

Harvey Westcott, Jr.

Harvey Westcott, Jr., 29, son of Harvey Westcott, Sr., of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], was drowned in the Chenango River, just north of the Court street bridge in Binghamton, early Wednesday morning.  The body was taken from the river at about 10:30.  Face down, his unconscious form was discovered by five small boys who reported it to police, who with firemen worked for some time in a vain attempt to revive him.  Dr. John J. Breivis, of Binghamton, Broome County coroner, pronounced him dead, but gave no verdict as to the cause.  Westcott, almost totally blind, had been living at the Binghamton Y.M.C.A. and working at the I.B.M. plant.  He suffered injuries to his head and right hand when he fell or jumped into the river, but detectives had discounted the theory that he may have been the victim of foul play.  He was not seen as he entered the river.  The body was taken to the Joyce Funeral Home in Unadilla, where services were held Saturday.  He is survived by his father, stepmother, three sisters and two brothers.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Dec. 16, 1943]

Howard Best

Howard Best, 31, was instantly killed Tuesday night near Pittsfield, when en route to his home in Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY] from New Berlin.  the crash was heard by Mr. Medbury, who hurried to the scene, where he found Mr. Best lying in the road.  He breathed his last as Mr. Medbury reached him.  The car was 150 feet from the body and had turned over several times.  The car was badly damaged.  How the accident happened is not known.  Dr. William P. Elliott, new Berlin, and Dr. E.C. Granger, coroner, were called and the coroner said death was accidental, caused by a broken neck.  [Bianbridge News & Republican, Dec. 16, 1943]

Ronald A. Baker

Ronald A. Baker, 35, of Chenango Bridge [Broome Co., nY], employee of the New York State Electric & Gas Corporation, was killed Wednesday afternoon in the collision of the company car he was driving and a 12-ton tractor-trailer loaded with coal on Route 12, in Chenango County, about one-fourth mile form Chenango Forks.  Trooper Heath said Mr. Baker was traveling toward Binghamton, and the coal truck proceeding toward Greene.  Two left wheels of the trailer were ripped off in the crash, he said.  Mr. Baker was pinned in his vehicle and was pulled out by sheriff's men, assisted by Corp. Floyd Allen, Endwell State Police.  Taken to the Binghamton City Hospital in the sheriff's ambulance, the victim was pronounced dead on admission.  Dr. John J. Breivis, county coroner, said injuries include multiple fractures of facial and jaw bones, a broken neck and punctured lung.  He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Jeannette Baker; three children, all living at home, and his mother, Mrs. John W. Baker, of Port Dickinson.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Dec. 16, 1943]

Thomas Ballantyne

Thomas Ballantyne, 83, for most of his life a resident of Walton [Delaware Co., NY) where he was a contractor and builder, died Saturday at a Binghamton hospital where he had been a patient for a month.  Death was caused by lobar pneumonia.  He was born in Hamden [Delaware Co., nY] Sept. 22, 1860, a son of Robert and Christine Ballantyne, and Jan. 20, 1898, married Miss Jennie Ganoung at Hamden.  She died about 15 years ago.  He came to Delhi nine months ago to make his home with his daughter, Mrs. Ellsworth Bell.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Apr. 6, 1944]

Soldier News continued, 1944

S/Sgt Paul Robek Receives Citation

Bainbridge news & Republican, March 23, 1944

 

On left, S/Sgt. Paul J Robek

Mrs. Paul J. Robek has just received the Distinguished Fling Cross which was awarded her husband, S/Sgt. Paul J. Robek, on Feb. 9, 1944.  It was sent to her by Sgt. Robek from somewhere in England.  The citation accompanying the medal reads:  "For extraordinary achievement, while serving as Tail Gunner of a B-17 airplane on 15 bombardment missions over enemy occupied Continental Europe.  Displaying great courage and skill, Sergeant Robek, fighting from his gun position has destroyed two enemy airplanes, warded off many enemy attacks and has materially aided in the success of each of the 15 missions.  The courage coolness and skill displayed by Sergeant Robek on all these occasions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the united States."

 

1st Lt Harry Hill Missing in Action

Bainbridge News & Republican, March 23, 1944

 

First Lieut. Harry H. Hill, Jr., 24, was listed by the War Department Monday as missing in action over Germany since Feb. 25, according to an official notification received by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harry H. Hill, Binghamton  [Broome Co., NY].  A bombardier on a Flying Fortress, he had been stationed at a base in England since October, 1943.  Lieutenant Hill has been awarded the Air Medal and two Oak Leaf Clusters for "meritorious achievement" on bombing missions.  He was promoted to first lieutenant shortly before he was reported missing.  A graduate of the Binghamton Central High School, he was employed by Ansco before entering the service on may 1, 1941.

 

Lt. (j.g.) Roger Banner Awarded Citation

Bainbridge News & Republican, April 6, 1944

 

Lt. (j.g.) Roger H. Banner, U.S. Coast Guard, has been awarded the Legion of Merit medal by Captain J.S. Rosenthal, at a recent ceremony at St Augustine, Fla.  The citation, which is from the Norwest African Theatre reads: 

United States Naval Forces

Northwest African Waters

Award

 

The Commander United States Naval Forces, Norwest African Waters, in the name of the President of the United States, awards the Legion of Merit to Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Roger  H. Banner.

 

Citation

 

For exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services during the amphibious invasion of Italy, September, 1943.

 

As officer in charge of a support boat, Lieut. (j.g.) Banner exercised great skill and courage in escorting amphibious trucks from the transport anchorage to the assigned beaches during darkness to discharge urgently needed artillery and equipment for the assaulting forces.  He continued to navigate his support boat by the stars in traversing this distance of 12 miles between the beaches and the offshore anchorage through enemy mine fields and concentrated shell and mortar fire from shore defenses to expeditiously complete unloading operations.  His excellent judgment and determination were directly accountable for the rapid discharge of assault cargo without casualty which contributed materially to the success of the invasion. 

 

The extraordinary ability, resourcefulness and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Lieut. (j.g.) Banner reflected great credit upon himself and the Naval Service. 

 

Lieut. Banner is a nephew of Robert L Banner, of Bainbridge, and the youngest son of the late Erford and Pearl (Decker) Banner, formerly of this village.

 

Sgt. Julian Wiedmann Missing in Action

Bainbridge News & Republican, April 6, 1944

 

Albert Wiedmann, of Roxbury [Delaware Co., NY], received a government telegram Saturday that his son, Sgt. Julian Wiedmann, had been missing in action over Germany since Mar. 6.  The family had received their last letter form him, dated Mar. 3.  Sgt. Wiedmann is the second Roxbury man to be reported missing.  The first one was Sgt. D. Cantwell, who was in Bataan peninsula, Philippines, and who was found to be a Jap prisoner several months after being listed as missing.  At last reports, Sgt. Cantwell said he was in good health and looking forward to returning home some time.

 

Lt. Richard C. Brown Killed in Action

Bainbridge news & Republican, April 6, 1944

 

Having been listed as missing in action over Europe since Mar. 22, 1943, Lt. Richard C. Brown, of Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY], has been officially recorded as dead by the War Department.  His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Daniel D. Brown, received notice of the listing last week from the War Department.

 

PFC  Douglas Neidlinger Member of Chemical Warfare Service

Bainbridge News & Republican, April 13, 1944

 

A U.S. Army 8th Air Force Service Command Station, England:  Contributing to the all-out effort of this station to keep the essential supplies rolling to the points where they will be used with the deadliest effect against the Axis, is P.F.C. Douglas Leroy Neidlinger, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], one of four brothers in their services.  The Neidlinger brothers have divided equally their allegiance between the two main branches of the service.  With Douglas, on the Army Side, is T/5 Frederick Neidlinger, who has been on duty the longest of the quartet-19 months.  He is still stationed in the States.  For the Navy, there are brothers Mo. M.M. 3/C Earl, at sea with a submarine crew, and S 2/C Otto, who is still undergoing training in the United States.  They are sons of Mr. and Mrs. Otto Neidlinger, of R.D.3, Bainbridge.  P.F.C. Neidlinger is a member of the Chemical Warfare Service at this station.  he entered the Army Jan. 29, 1943. Prior to that, he was employed as a retail feed salesman by the Cooperative G.L.F. Ind. of Bainbridge.  He is a graduate of Bainbridge High School, Class of 1940, and while there played varsity football, basketball and baseball.  His remaining favorite sport is tennis.  He is a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Bainbridge. 

Bainbridge High School Class of 1919

Bainbridge High School Class of 1919

 

 

Class in Bainbridge High School taken many years ago.  Pictured here are (l-r) Walter Barnes*, Mildred Cowell Lord, Katherine Payne, Louella Barton, Philina Dedrick*, and Leroy Copley.

 

*Identities made using 1927 "Echo" Alumni listing. 

 

In 1927, the status of the members of the class of 1919 was given as follows:

Walter Barnes is in Binghamton, New York

Louella Barton is working in the Casein Office, Bainbridge, New York

Mildred Cowell Lord is working in the America Separator Office, Bainbridge, N.Y.

Leroy Copley is in the Engineering Dept., Kelly Springfield Tire Co., Cumberland, Md.

Philina Dedrick is teaching at Armond Beach, Florida

Catherine Payne is working in Sidney, New York



 



Marriages (November 10)

Babcock - Sweet

A wedding of interest to Bainbridge was performed on Saturday afternoon at four o'clock when Miss Dorothy Ardell Sweet, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clayton Sweet and Mr. Leon Carlton Babcock, son of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Babcock, were married.  The young couple's pastor, the Rev. Clarence Carman, performed the ceremony.  Mrs. Sweet was attended by her friend, Miss Thelma Lyon and Mr. Donald Loudon was best man.  The ceremony took place in the living room of the Sweet home.  The bride wore a flowered georgette dress with picture hat to match.  Miss Lyon was similarly gowned.  After the ceremony a wedding dinner was served to the guests, covers being laid for twenty.  Mr. and Mrs. Babcock left for a short trip.  They will make their home with the parents of the bride for the present.  [About 1935]

Averell - Clark

Saturday at 8 p.m., Miss Helen Mary Clark, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alton L. Clark of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], became the bride of Herbert Leonard Averell, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Averell of Cooperstown [Otsego Co., NY].  The bride was given in marriage by her father, and the ceremony was performed by Rev. Clarence Carman, pastor of the Methodist Episcopal church of Bainbridge.  Miss Charlotte Stevens of Westhampton Beach, L.I., was maid of honor, and Waldo Ellsworth of Cooperstown was best man.  The bride's dress was white net over white satin and she carried a beautiful bridal bouquet of white gladioli.  The maid of honor's gown was of pink embroidered organdy, and she carried a bouquet of pink sweet peas and blue delphiniums.  The ceremony took place out of doors before a natural background of gladioli and ferns.  Frank Walsh of Oneonta sang "I Love You Truly," playing his own accompaniment.  He also played Mendelssohn's Wedding march.  Miss Margaret Springsteen and Miss Mildred Wilcox of Bainbridge, accompanied by Miss Virginia Hirt of Bainbridge, sang "O Promise Me."  After the wedding, a reception was given to about 60 guests. Table decorations consisted of an attractive color scheme of white, lavender, and purple flowers. The bride's table was decorated with white petunias outlining a large wedding cake of white and pink.  Following the reception, Mr. and Mrs. Averell departed amidst the congratulations of their many friends for a two weeks' motor trip to Canada.  Upon their return, they will be at home at a furnished apartment at 6 Franklin street.  Both the bride and bridegroom will receive the good wishes of many friends and acquaintances in this vicinity, since they are well known here.  Mrs. Averell graduated form Bainbridge High School in 1925 and from the Oneonta Normal school in 1928, at which school she was a member of the Agonian fraternity.  For the past two years she has taught in the public schools of Johnson City.  Mr. Averell is a graduate of the Cooperstown High school, class of 1921, and attended Colgate university, where he belonged to the Sigma Nu club.  Since then he has made many friends in this city, while in the employ of the Otsego and Delaware Telephone company.  [1931]

Potter - Bard

Saturday at 12 o'clock noon Miss Virginia Wardwell Bard, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harry C. Bard of 77 Elm street, was married to Pierce Potter, son of Mrs. Anna Potter of Syracuse.  This happy occasion was solemnized at the home of the bride by Dr. George Phillips of the First Methodist Episcopal church of Oneonta in the presence of a few friends and relatives.  Both bride and bridegroom are well known and liked in Oneonta.  Mrs. Potter attended the local schools and was graduated from the Oneonta high school in the class of 1924.  Following, she attended and graduated from the Wyoming seminary of Kingston Pa. where she received a business training.  Since then she has been a valued employee in the stenographical department of the Associated Gas and electric system of Oneonta.  Mr. Potter received public school education in the schools of Utica, in which city he also attended business school   His home for some time was in Bennington, Vt., prior to his residence in Syracuse.  For several years he has been in the construction department of the local Associated Gas and electric system, where he has made many friends.  The single ring service was used, and the bride was given in marriage by her father.  Mrs. LaVern Norris of Oneonta was matron of honor, and LaVerne Norris of this city was best man.  During the ceremony, Miss Mable Thomson of Oneonta sang "I Love You Truly," accompanied by Miss Dorothy McMorris, also of Oneonta, at the piano.  The house was attractively decorated with gladioli in all pastel shades, and with ferns. The bride's gown was of white satin.  She wore white lace mitts and carried a bouquet of white roses, white sweet peas and baby's breathe.  Mrs. Norris' gown was of aqua marine chiffon, with white lace mitts.  She carried a blue and yellow garden bouquet.  Miss Thomson and Miss McMorris wore yellow gowns.  The bride's gift to the matron of honor was a crystal necklace, and to Miss McMorris and Miss Thomson, filigree bracelets.  The gift of the bridegroom to his best man was a leather billfold.  After the ceremony, a wedding breakfast, was served to about 24 guests by Mrs. Lottie Casteline, cateress. Shortly after the happy couple departed for a few days motor trip through the western part of the state.  On their return they will be at home to their many friends at 9 West street, where they have furnished a flat.  [1931]

Obituaries (November 10)

Mrs. Jesse Whitman, well known in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] died at her home in Jamaica, L.I. Tuesday afternoon from a shock.  Her son, Samuel Whitman, came to Bainbridge Wednesday morning and made arrangement for interment in St. Peter's cemetery.  The remains will reach Bainbridge Friday morning and will be taken to Colwell's undertaking rooms.  Services will be held at the grave at 11 o'clock that same morning.  Mr. and Mrs. Whitman left Bainbridge three years ago to make their home with their son.  Mrs. Whitman had been in poor health all summer.  Her maiden name was Helen Corbin.  She was born in Bainbridge 63 years ago and had made her home  here until leaving for Jamaica.  She was a sister of the late Mrs. C.M. Priest.  Beside her husband and son, two nieces survive, Mrs. Frank Barber, of Flushing, L.I. and Mrs. George Whitman, of Morris.  She was a member of the Bainbridge Baptist church.  [1929]

 

Elliott Truman, prominent Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] pharmacist, died at his home Friday evening after a brief illness.  Mr. Truman was born in Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY] Feb. 27, 1862.  His parents were Henry L. Truman and Eunice Ann (Davis) Truman.  As a boy he attended Bainbridge High School for a time, living with his uncle, the late W. Wallace Davis, who was a merchant in this village for many years.  After a few years work as a farmer at the family home, Mr. Truman entered the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and completed his course in 1893.  He came to Bainbridge in the fall of that year.  At first he was a partner of Dr. C.M. Frisbie, but in 1897 bought the drug store of Francis West, and continued in that business until his death.  During the last ten years Nathan Truman had been associated with him as Truman Bros.  Mr. Truman was always deeply interested in the development of the village.  In particular, he had a great part in establishing a municipal owned water system, and also the village telephone system.  His family were democrats and in 1910 he was defeated as party candidate for member of Assembly, but in later years he has been a republican.  He had a leading part in the organization of the Odd Fellows lodge in December of 1908.  He was the second noble Grand and in 1914 was the District Deputy Grand Master for this county.  He was a devoted Christian and has been much interested in religious activities.  For many years he has served as a Deacon of the First Baptist Church, was a S.S. Teacher, and also a member of the Advisory Board.  he was greatly loved, not only by his Church and lodge, but by all who knew him.  In 1881, Mr. Truman married Lena B. Connelly, daughter of Thomas Connelly of Unadilla.  One son, Leon, was born to this union but died at an early age.  After his wife's death, he married in 1897 Ella (Youmans) Truman, daughter of Jerome B. Youmans of Wellsbridge.  Besides the widow and brother already mentioned, Mr. Truman leaves one step-daughter, Mabel Truman, to mourn his loss, and a host of relatives and friends.  The funeral services were held at his late home Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock, his pastor, Rev. R.B. Whitman officiating.  The abundance of beautiful flowers gave tribute of the esteem in which he was held by the community.  Burial at Wellsbridge [Otsego Co., NY].  [1929]

Mrs. Florence E. Fowler, aged 72, died at 6 o'clock last night at her home at 16 Gault avenue, following a week's illness.  She had been suffering from a case of grip for about a week, but yesterday her condition improved and she was up for a little while.  She had also suffered from heart trouble.  The funeral will be held from her late home Monday morning at 11 o'clock, Rev. George H. Phillips, D.D. pastor of the First Methodist Episcopal church, will officiate, and burial will be at the Glenwood cemetery at Afton.  Mrs. Fowler was born August 5, 1861, the daughter of James H. and Fannie (Dow) Redfield of South Franklin.  On Thanksgiving day, 1884, she was married to Corah W.R. Fowler, who died in 1906.  Before her residence here for the past five years, she had lived at Cooperstown, Sidney and Coventry.  She also lived here some years ago, and was a member of the First Methodist Episcopal church of this city.  Many friends here will mourn her loss.  She is survived by a son, Edward l. Fowler of Oneonta; three sisters, Miss Anna M. Redfield of Treadwell, Mrs. Fannie McCammon of Oneonta, and Mrs. Hattie Roach of Appalichia, Va.; a brother, Charley Redfield of Appalachia, Va., and two nieces, Mrs. J.F. Davis and Miss Jessie McCammon, both of Oneonta.  [Buried Glenwood Cemetery, Afton, Chenango Co., NY;  Florence Fowler 1861 - 1933]

 

Charles Whitney, of Bennettsville [Chenango Co., NY], died suddenly at his home early Monday morning, Dec. 6.  A resident of Bainbridge for 33 years, he was a well-known farmer throughout this area.  He was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Orson Whitney, of Sidney Center, born April 30, 1888. He attended school in Sidney Center.  On Jan. 4, 1911, he married Georgiana Williams, of Sidney, at the Methodist parsonage in Sidney.  He is survived by his widow and six children, Mrs. Harry Woods, of West Bainbridge; Mrs. Wilson Gardner, of East Guilford; Leland Whitney, of Bennettsville; the Rev. Andrew Whitney, of Toddsville; Sgt. Kenneth Whitney, U.S. Army; Velma Whitney, of Bennettsville; six grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. George Hard, of Norwich; and one brother Arthur Whitney, of Warwick.  Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock at Colwell's Chapel with the Rev. G. Lewis Jones, of the West Bainbridge church, and the Rev. Jasper Hamm, of East Windsor, officiating.  Bearers were Charles Eldred, Harry Bluler, George Fredenburg, Leon Seversen, Russell Alcott and Abijah Gilbert.  Burial was in Bennettsville Cemetery.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Dec. 16, 1943]

 

Ture Sandin, 48, of 74 Wall street, Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], died at 9:30 in the Binghamton City Hospital Sunday morning.  Besides his widow, Signe Sandin, he is survived by two sons, Sgt. Nells Sandin, of the U.S. Army, serving in England, and Lyle Sandin, of Binghamton; two daughters, Mable and Ruth, also of Binghamton; a brother, Akel Sandin, of South Dakota; a sister, Martha Soderholn, of Sweden.  Mr. and Mrs. Sandin were residents of Bainbridge, R.D.3, before moving to Binghamton.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Dec. 30, 1943]

 

William Augusts Boyes, born in the Township of Colchester Dec. 10, 1850, died at the family home in Margaretville [Delaware Co., NY] last Thursday.  In the 94th year of his age he was the oldest resident of that village where nearly all of his life has been spent and where he is well known for his high ideals and a life of temperance, industry and good works.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Mar. 30, 1944]

Soldier News continued - 1944

Lt. Robert Smith Receives Wings

Bainbridge News & Republican, February 24, 1944

 

 

Lt. Robert F Smith, who was awarded his silver wings as a pilot in the U.S. Army Air Forces Feb. 8 at Blytheville Army Air Field, Ark., left for Westover Field, Mass., Sunday after spending a furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fayette Smith, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]

 

Capt. David Miner Missing in Action

Bainbridge News & Republican, March 30, 1944

 

Capt. David L. MIner, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], has been reported missing in action in a telegram from the War Department received by the young flier's parents, Mr. and Mrs.  Leon D. Miner. the telegram states that Captain Miner, a pilot on a B-17 Flying Fortress, has been missing since Mar. 6, following a raid over Germany.

 

Lt. Cable is German Prisoner

Bainbridge News & Republican, March 30, 1944

 

Mrs. Robert Cable, of Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], has received word form the War Department that her husband, Lieutenant Cable, has been taken prisoner by the Germans.   No details were given.  Lieutenant Cable was one of the first men to leave in the draft, entering the Army in November, 1940.  He was commissioned second lieutenant at Fort Bragg, N.C., and advanced to first lieutenant at Camp Edwards, Mass., where he was attached to the 36th Infantry Division.  Mrs. Cable received her last letter from  her husband in January, when he was near the Rapido River not far from Cassino, Italy.  Lieutenant Cable has an infant son whom he has never seen.

 

Pvt. Burdette H. Davie Killed in Action

Bainbridge News & Republican, March 30, 1944

 

Word of the death of Pvt. Burdette H. Davie has been received by his father, Harold Davie, in a telegram from the War Department.  Private Davie, a paratrooper, is reported killed in action Feb. 27 in the invasion of Italy.  Private Davie was the only son of Mr. Davie and the late Josephine Meredith Davie.  He was born on a farm near Sidney Center [Delaware Co., NY] on Aug. 14, 1920 and spent most of his life in that locality, graduating in 1941 from the Sidney High School.  Enlisting in the service Apr. 7, 1942, he received his training at Fort McClellan, Ala.; Edgewood Arsenal, Md., and Fort Benning, Ga.  On Feb. 3, 1942, he left for overseas where he completed his training and was awarded his paratrooper wings.  Besides his father, Private Davie is survived by one sister, Mrs. Ruth Esposito, an uncle and three aunts.  A memorial service is scheduled to be held at a date to be announced later.

 

Lt. Leonard Baxter Released from German Prison

Bainbridge News & Republican, March 30, 1944

 

Lieutenant Leonard D. Baxter, who has been in the Halloran Hospital, Staten Island, for the past week, after landing from the Gripsholm, arrived in Walton [Delaware Co., NY] on Thursday, says the Reporter.  Lieutenant Baxter was navigator on a Flying Fortress of the Eighth Air Force and on July 25 went out on his 11th mission over Germany, a raid on Hamburg.  During the raid Lieutenant Baxter was wounded in the hip and left wrist and hand.  On the return trip the plane caught fire over the North sea and made a forced landing at sea.  The crew took to rubber rafts and after drifting about for 20 hours the men were picked up by a German patrol plane and taken to Germany as prisoners.  Lieutenant Baxter says the American prisoners in Germany are well treated, but the one thing they all look forward to is the weekly boxes form the Red Cross.  Lieutenant Baxter is in good health and has fully recovered from his wounds, except that he has lost some  freedom of movement in his left hand.

 

Doris Stead Joins Red Cross

Bainbridge News & Republican, March 30, 1944

 

Miss Doris Stead, daughter of Lester Stead, of North Main street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], who has been accepted in the America Red Cross as a Recreational Staff Assistant for overseas duty, will report Apr. 10 in Washington, D.C., for training.  Miss Stead, a graduate of Cornell University, is a member of the high school faculty at Suffern.

 

Post Listing November 3-9, 2014

Listing of blog postings for the week of November 3 - 9, 2014.

Marriages

Posted November 3, 2014

Marriage Notices:

     Hiram Randall (Coventry) - Lucy Tuttle (Bainbridge) 1835

     Jared Chapel (Pitcher Springs) - Savia Stebbins (Lebanon) 1835

     Oliver T. Hammond (Hamilton) - A. Louisa Prentiss (Charlestown, MA) 1835

     Joseph Wait - Mary Ann Wheeden 1835

     David Chace, Jr. - Hannah Dickinson 1835

     James N. Skillen (Springfield) - Alice L. Crandall (Oxford) 1877

     Friend B. Peck (Harford, PA) - Lizzie Lord (Oxford) 1877

Posted November 4, 2014
Mr. & Mrs. Marcus Cooper (25th anniversary, 1877)
Mary Foote - William Pearce (1877)
Florence Annie Emma Austin - Charles Amos Bowers (about 1905)
Marriage Notices, Bainbridge Republican, 1877
     Stephen H. Berry (Dover NJ) - Alice L. Hoyt (Coventry)
     Seth J. Young (Guilford Center) - Hattie E. Law (Ouaquaga)
     George H. Hutchinson - Mertie M. Barnes (Wells Bridge)
     M.J. Morgan (Guilford Center) - Mary M. Easton (Afton)
     Samuel A. Ives - Frances Carhart (Guilford)

Posted November 5, 2014
Claude Newton Ackler - Florence Richer (1920)
Kathryn E Rice - Harold V. Lowe (1946)
Marriage Notices - 1835
     Smith Thompson (Norwich) - Jane Eliza Rathbone (South New Berlin)
     John Monroe (Norwich) - Emeline Palmer (Guilford)
     Alfred Slocum (Hamilton) - Amelia B. Randall (Norwich)
     Theodore Tanner - Susan Snow
     Horace Baldwin Merchant (Norwich) - Penelope Allen (Kingstown, RI)
     Samuel McKoon - Adella Perkins (Oxford)
     Dr. Andrew Farrell (Guilford) - Elvira P. Cady (Butternuts)

Posted November 6, 2014
Agnes C. Brosmer - Virgil C. McLagan (about 1905)
Floyd Lester Andrews - Mattie Ellen Curlhair (1904)
Sadie Hodge - Harry Wolfe (1903)
Charles J. Fisher - Julia McClenon (1900)
Rev. Charles Olsen - Nina Wright (1900)
Charles E. Walling - Nellie Harrison (engagement, 1900)
Wanda Murphy - Richard W. Lewis (1944)

Posted November 7, 2014
Alice M. Godfrey - George M. Tyler (1888)
Vera Beatrice Strall - Leigh Wallace Evans (1925)
Marriage Notices:
     Myron W. Vincent - Emily E. Lamphere (1877)
     Joseph Williams, Jr. - Miss McAlpin (1877)
     Mr. Nearing - Nannie Beebe (1877)
     Miner Mathewson - Minerva E. Crandall (1877)
     Mr. Dan N. Wells, Jr. - Susan Hill (1877)
     C.H. Clark - Jennie E. Dean (1877)

Posted November 9, 2014
Mary Elliott - Fred Gardner (about 1905)
George L. Campbell - Maybelle B. Blair (1901)
George B. Minor - Florence Janet McLeod (1900)
J.W. Cudworth - Emma L. Brooks (1901)
Emma Sarah Hunt - Fred Church (1906)
John Demoney - Ethel Hadley (1906)



 

Obituaries

Posted November 3, 2014

Five children of Frank Dunnigan (Little York, Homer, 1877)
Tommy Pettis Welch (Oxford, 1877)
Mary Van Dyke (Cherry Valley, 1877)
Elma A. Kilpatrick (Bainbridge, 1896)

Alfred Jacobs (Bainbridge, Cobleskill, about 1895)

Charles L. Fairchild (Bainbridge, Ouaquaga,  1895)
Death Notices - Antimasonic Telegraph, 1835
     George Shattuck (Norwich)
     Jabish Howel (Norwich)
     Col. Caleb Seabury (Norwich)
     Jerusha Burlingame
     Jonas W. Ogden (McDonough)
     Bradford Willcox (Norwich, 1877)
     Almira Willcox (Norwich, 1877)

Posted November 4, 2014
Ruth Coe (White Store, 1877)
Alanson Bingham (Bainbridge, 1877)
George W. Davidson (Addison, Bainbridge, 1877)
George Brooks (Cortland, 1877)
Frank Slater (Cortland, 1877)
Johnnie Wilson (1877)
Otto Crooker (Unadilla, 1946)
Ray Dwight Bennett (Windsor, 1946)

Posted November 5, 2014
Lucy Gifford (1877)
Julia Hastings (Bainbridge, 1877)
Mrs. Eliel Burtch (Yaleville, 1877)
Mrs. Lewis A. Ives (Ives Settlement, 1877)
Elijah Hyde (Afton, 1877)
M. Eugene Lovejoy (Harpursville, 1943)
David Orr (Beatty's Brook, Stamford, 1943)
Charles LeSuer (Laurens, 1943)

Posted November 6, 2014
Ransom Yale (Smithville, 1900)
Loren Holdredge (McDonough, 1900)
James Graham (Delhi, 1944)
Melissa Foote (Sidney, Unadilla, 1944)
James N. Laing (Delhi, 1944)
Mrs. Robert L. Harkness (Franklin, 1944)
William Connors (Susquehanna PA, 1944)

Posted November 7, 2014
Julia Kelsey (Binghamton, 1912)
Frank Butler (South New Berlin, 1912)
Bennett W. Morse (Unadilla, 1910)
Asa Tyler (Preston, Guilford, 1910)
Sally M. Lull (Bainbridge, 1885)
William L. Beardsley (Oxford, 1883)
Ozias B. Tyler (Bainbridge, 1883)
LaMott Bissell Tyler (Bainbridge, 1865)
Willie Loveridge (Unadilla, 1885)

Posted November 8, 2014
Zalmon Haight (Smithville, Oxford, 1901)
Eliza B. Webb (Smithville, Tyner, 1901)
Mrs. Leonard Horton (Coventry, 1877)
Laura Miller Keith (Sidney, 1943)
Emily Davis Wakefield (Mt. Upton, Afton, 1943)
Death Notices - Antimasonic Telegraph
     Nancy Hall (Norwich, 1834)
     Lydia Pabodie (Norwich, 1834)
     Charles B. Holcomb (Salina, 1835)
     Esther Wheelock (Delphi, 1835)
     Betsey Pendleton (Norwich, 1835)

Posted November 9, 2014
Anna M. Everett (Harpursville, 1943)
Silas Andy Case (Windsor, 1943)
Henry Nearing (Gilbertsville, 1943)
William Harvey White (Hancock, Scranton, 1943)
Frances Williams Livingston (Newton Hollow, 1943)
Death Notices, Bainbridge Republican
     Nicholas Race (Greene, 1873)
     Robert Fry (Oxford, 1873)
     Hiram Tillotson (Sherburne, 1873)
     Joshua Barber (Smyrna, 1973)
     Henry Mills (Masonville, 1873)
     Jeremiah York (Oxford, 1873)
     David Stiles (Smithville, 1873)
     Isaac s. Marsden (Oxford, 1876)
     Lewis Graves (New Berlin, 1876)
     Sylvanus Smith (Rockdale, 1877)
     Amelia Herrick (Bainbridge, 1877)
     Mary Cole (Bainbridge, 1877)
     Louisa A. Gilmore (Greene, 1877)
     Mr. Newman (Sidney Plains, 1877)


 

Miscellaneous

Posted November 3, 2014

St. Peter's Church, Bainbridge, NY Renovations, 1877

Posted November 4, 2014
Bainbridge Academy Commencement Exercises, 1877

Posted November 5, 2014
Bainbridge Academy Commencement Exercises, 1877 continued

Posted November 6, 2014
Soldier News Continued, 1944
     Cpl. Richard L. Parsons Completes Training
     Milton Spangenberg Killed In Action
     James Duignan Missing in Action
     Carl Sejersen Enters Air Corps
     Everette Herrick Writes from Naval Hospital
Bainbridge High School, Class of 1941, Part 1

Posted November 7, 2014
Soldier News continued - 1944
     George Youngs graduates
     James Riley Completes Training Course
     2nd Lt. Edwin Davidson is German Prisoner
     Sgt. John Hill Awarded Air Medal
     Robert Smith Receives Commission in Air Corps
     Pvt. Richard Bump Lost Seven Hours Behind Jap Lines
Miscellaneous Items
     A Promising Academy in Bainbridge (1877)
     St. Peter's Church Bell (1877)
     St. Peter's Church Threatened by Fire (1944)

Posted November 8, 2014
Soldier News continued - 1944
     Sgt. Otto Bowker Killed in Action
     Sgt. Jack Downes Helps Guard President
     Norman Winsor Instructor in Army School
     Shirley Bradish Enlists in Cadet Nurses Corps
     Louis Beatty, Merchant Marine, Tells of Trip
Lt. George Vicary Tells of Trip to Bou-Saada

Posted November 9, 2014
Bainbridge W.C.T.U. Parade Float
Soldier News continued - 1944
     A/C Myron L. Carl in Advanced Flight Training
     Sgt. Nelson J. Sheppard Killed in Plane Crash
     Sgt. John Nelson Hill Awarded Oak Leaf Cluster
     Gertrude Smith Commissioned Officer
     S/Sgt. Paul J. Robek at Rest Home in England

WCTU Parade Float

W.C.T.U. Parade Float

 

 

Pure White Tribute is paid the memory of Frances E. Willard, founder of the W.C.T.U., whose portrait is displayed on this prize-winning Bainbridge float by, left to right, Juanita James, Esther Hollenbeck, Velma Ballantyne, little four-year-old Roberta Ferguson, Arlene Young and Lillian Moore.



Obituaries (November 9)

Anna M. Everett died Thursday night at the home of her stepdaughter, Mrs. George Baker, of Harpursville [Broome Co., NY].  Besides Mrs. Baker, she is survived by her husband, William H. Everett; two sons, Almon Warner, of Binghamton, and Herald Warner, of Deposit; two daughters, Mrs. Walter Ireland, of Hallstead, and Mrs. Emory Shaver, of Harpursville; another stepdaughter, Mrs. Anthony Lawler, of Nineveh Junction, a stepson, Leon Everett, of Wolcott, and seven grandchildren.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Dec. 16, 1943]

 

Silas Andy Case, 86, died at his home in Windsor [Broome Co., NY], Saturday at 10 p.m.  He is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Ross J. Comstock, of West Oneonta; two sons, Arthur L. Case and Byron L. Case, both of Windsor; seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.  The body was removed to the Clinton E. Wood Chapel in Windsor, where the funeral was held Tuesday afternoon.  The Rev. Charles M. Adams, of Otego, officiated. Burial will be made later in Knox Cemetery at Ouaquaga.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Dec. 16, 1943]

 

Henry Nearing, of Gilbertsville [Otsego Co., nY], who had been in Bassett Hospital, Cooperstown, for several weeks, died Tuesday morning.  He had undergone three operations for prostate gland trouble and appeared to be gaining nicely.  Born in the Town of Butternuts [Otsego Co., NY], Oct. 1, 1868, he was the son of Hezekiah and Amanda (Benedict) Nearing, and 54 years ago in August married Carrie Dixon, who survives him.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Dec. 16, 1943]

 

William Harvey "Wick" White, of Scranton [PA], a former resident of Hancock [Delaware Co., NY], died suddenly from a heart attack Friday afternoon.  He had not been rugged in health in the last three years.  He was a brother of Charles T. White, associate editor of the Hancock Herald.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Dec. 16, 1943]

 

Mrs. Frances Williams Livingston, 52, wife of Archie Livingston, of Newton Hollow [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], died in the Bainbridge hospital last week Wednesday, Dec. 8.  She had been in ill health for some time, having undergone an operation in the Sidney Hospital several weeks ago.  Born in Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], Dec. 14, 1890, she was the daughter of John and Carrie Williams.  On Dec. 28, 1914, she was united in marriage to Archie Livingston, of Bainbridge, and they moved to the farm where they now reside.  Mrs. Livingston was a member of the Methodist church of Union Valley.  The deceased is survived by her husband; two brothers, Henry Williams, of Masonville; Levi Williams of Oxford; and two sisters, Mrs. Evah Sisson, of Oneonta; and Mrs. Charles Whitney, of Bennettsville.  Funeral services were held on Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock in Colwell's Chapel with the Rev. G. Lewis Jones, of Endicott, pastor of the West Bainbridge Church, officiating.  Bearers were Isaac Carl, Gerald Weeks, Ray Stanton and Lloyd Strong.  Burial was in Glenwood Cemetery in Afton.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Dec. 16, 1943]

 

Death Notices

Bainbridge Republican, May 10, 1873

In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], April 24th Nicholas Race, aged 79 years and 9 months.

 

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] April 23d, Robert Fry, aged 84 years.

 

In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] April 21st, Hiram Tillotson, aged 76 years.

 

In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY] on the 30th ult. Joshua Barber, aged 92 years.

 

In Masonville [Delaware Co., NY] April 23rd Henry Mills, aged 96 years.

 

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] April 24th, Deacon Jeremiah York, aged 79 years.

 

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], April 30th, Mr. David Stiles, aged 66 years.

 

Bainbridge Republican, September 30, 1876

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Mr. Isaac S. Maraden, aged 53 years

 

In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] Sept. 19th, Mr. Lewis Graves, aged 65 years.

 

Bainbridge Republican, January 27, 1877

SMITH:  In Rockdale [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 19th, 1877, Mr. Sylvanus Smith, aged about 72 years.

 

Bainbridge Republican, March 3, 1877

HERRICK:  In Union Valley [West Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 26, 1877, Miss Amelia Herrick, aged 34 years.

 

COLE:  In Bainbridge, Feb. 23, 1877, Miss Mary Cole, aged 15 years and six months.

 

Bainbridge Republican, July 12, 1877

GILMORE:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], July 4th, 1877, Louisa A. wife of Willard Gilmore and daughter of C.W. Barnett aged 31 years.

 

NEWMAN:  In Sidney Plains [Delaware Co., NY], July 9th, 1877, --- Newman aged 43 years.

 

 

Marriages (November 9)

Gardner - Elliott

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At the home of the bride's mother, Mrs. Belle Elliott, on Cortland street, Sunday evening, Miss Mary B. Elliott was wedded to Fred S. Gardner, of South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], formerly of Norwich.  Rev. D.W. Dexter officiated in the presence of the immediate relatives.  The bride, who is popular and well known to many Norwich people, was for several years employed in the sealing room of the Borden Condensery.  The groom was formerly a clerk in the dry goods store of S.E. Johns until recently he became a partner of W.J. Wildman in a large general store at South Otselic, where, after a brief wedding trip to Binghamton and other places, Mr. and Mrs. Gardner will take up their residence.  Both young people have many friends who wish them abundant prosperity and happiness.  [About 1905]

 

Campbell - Blair

Geo. L. Campbell of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], and Miss Maybelle B. Blair of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], were married in Sidney Sunday evening by Rev. Wm. Frisbie.  Mr. and Mrs. Campbell will reside in Bainbridge. [1901]

 

Minor - McLeon

Relatives in Deposit [Broome Co., NY] have received invitations to the wedding of Mr Geo. H. Minor, a Deposit boy, now of Buffalo, to Miss Florence Janet McLeon, April 17, at Buffalo.  [1900]  

 

Cudworth - Brooks

J.W. Cudworth, the Cortland optician who is well known in Chenango county, was married at Cortland last week to Miss Emma L. Brooks of that city [1901]

 

Church - Hunt

Wednesday noon April 25 [1906], at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Hunt, occurred the marriage of their daughter, Emma Sarah, to Mr. Fred Church, of Afton, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY]  The ceremony was performed by the Rev. F.S. Campbell, pastor of the Presbyterian Church, in the presence of the immediate families.  A pleasing simplicity marked all the appointments of the wedding.  The bride is a graduate of the Cortland Normal School.  Mr. Church is a member of the firm Church & Hill bankers.  Mr. and Mrs. Church will make their home in Afton.  The above is from the Cato, N.Y., Citizen and has reference to a young lady much loved in Deposit.  For eleven years the bride was a teacher in the Deposit High School, and by her kind disposition and winning ways made friends with all whom she met.  A host of firm friends will join the Courier-Journal in congratulations, with the wish that her married life may be one of continual bliss.  We were all in hopes Mrs. Church would make Deposit her home, but inasmuch as he has chosen a nearby village instead, we content ourselves with the anticipation and expectation that she will visit us often.

 

Demoney - Hadley

Mr. John Demoney and Miss Ethel Hadley were married at the Presbyterian parsonage yesterday afternoon at 1 o'clock and left on no. 2 for Newburgh, where they will reside. The groom is a son of Mr and Mrs. A.H. Demoney, and is employed by the Erie railroad as a bridge-builder.  The bride is a daughter of Mrs. Fred Webb, of this place, and is a young lady respected by all who know her.  Deposit friends will join the Courier-Journal in congratulations and best wishes.  [May 15, 1906]

 

 

 

Soldier News continued - 1944

A/C Myron Carl in Advanced Flight Training

Bainbridge News & Republican, March 2, 1944

A/C Myron L. Carl, son of Mr. and Mrs. I.L. Carl, has reported at Carlsbad,  N.M., Army Air Field, where he will receive advanced flight training in high-level bombardiering and dead-reckoning navigation.  The Carlsbad Army Air Field is the newest bombardier school in the Army Air Force Training Command.  During the 19 weeks training course Cadet Carl will study bombardiering and dead-reckoning navigation under simulated combat conditions.  On graduation he will be awarded his silver bombardier's wings and will be ready for active duty as an officer in the Army Air Forces.  He is a graduate of Cornell University.

 

Sgt. Nelson Sheppard, Killed in Plane Crash

Bainbridge News & Republican, March 6, 1944

 

Sgt. Nelson J. Sheppard, 22, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Sheppard, of Otego [Otsego Co., NY], was killed last week Tuesday night in an airplane crash 14 miles southeast of Rock Hill, S.C.  The Otego youth returned the previous Friday to his base at Charlotte, N.C., after visiting his parents on an eight-day furlough.

 

Sgt. John Nelson Hill Awarded Oak Leaf Cluster

Bainbridge News & Republican, March 6, 1944

 

By direction of the President the Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of an additional Air Medal was awarded on Feb. 14, 1844, by Lt. General Millar F. Harmon Commanding United States Army Forces in the South Pacific Area, to John Nelson Hill, Technical Sergeant, Air Corps, United States Army, as aerial engineer gunner from 18 December to 31 December 1943.  Home Address:  Bainbridge, New York.

 

Oak Leaf Clusters in lieu of an additional Air Medal are awarded to AAF members by direction of the President for meritorious achievement while participating in sustained combat operational missions, and when fights are of a hazardous nature during which there was traversed an area where enemy anti-aircraft fire is effective, or where enemy airplanes or exposure to enemy fire is habitually encountered.

 

Numerous Air Medals and Oak Leaf Clusters have been awarded to members of the 13th AAF, who wage a tireless fight against the Jap air and ground forces.  Their efforts exhibit courage and reflect the highest credit on the military forces of the U.S.

 

Gertrude Smith Commissioned

Bainbridge News & Republican, March 16, 1944

 

Gertrude Smith, registered nurse, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harold A. Smith, of Walton [Delaware Co., NY], has been commissioned a second lieutenant in the army nurse corps.  She reported for duty at Atlantic City on Mar. 1. 

 

Sgt. Paul Robek At Rest Home in England

Bainbridge News & Republican, March 16, 1944

 

Mrs. Paul Robek, of Bainbridge, East Side [Chenango Co., NY], has received word that her husband, S/Sgt. Paul J. Robek, of the 8th Air Force, has been spending eight days at a rest home "somewhere in England."  These rest homes are run by the Red Cross for the purpose of giving tired fliers and gunners a few days of rest and relaxation and a chance to forget about the war for the time being.  They are sent to these homes after they have completed approximately 15 missions over enemy territory.  The boys are issued "civies" for their use while there.  Also, each boy is issued a bicycle.

 

All meals are served to them.  Meal time is a different scene from even the very best of combat messes, and all the elemental luxuries can be found, rugs on the floor, pictures on the walls, white linen and napkins on the table with a butler hovering around the table.  Red Cross girls living and working at the homes are distributed one to a table at meal time and they are very effective.  They manage to dodge the main danger of such a job but at no time try to act like matrons at a boys' boarding school.  Good looking, good humored, at all times completely themselves they assure you that their assignment is one of the best the ETO Red Cross has to offer. 

 

S/Sgt. Robek says the home in which he is staying reminds him of "The Pillars" near Bainbridge only that it is about twice the size.  It is located near three large lakes.  S/Sgt. Robek has completed 16 missions over enemy territory.  He is the holder of the Air Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters and also the Distinguished Flying Cross.