Obituaries (August 21)

Sidney S. Babcock

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1902

 

Sidney S. Babcock

 

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Sidney S. Babcock, a well-known resident of this village, died suddenly Thursday  morning, aged about 32.  An autopsy was performed by Drs. Wilcox, Fernald and Harris and an inquest will be held today (Friday).  Deceased was the eldest son of the late Dr. Linn Babcock and was born in New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] and came to this village with his parents when about a year old.  He was until recently traveling salesman for the firm of L.&A. Babcock, dealers in musical instruments, of which firm his late father was the senior member.  He is survived by his mother, Mrs. Linn Babcock, two brothers, L.H. and Ormond Babcock, of this place, and one sister, Mrs. Frank Rogers, of New York.  The funeral will be held from the home of his mother on East Main street Saturday afternoon.

 

Lucinda Knapp

Northern Christian Advocate, 1846

Lucinda Knapp died in \Cazenovia, Nov. 24th, aged 46 years.  Mrs. Knapp had been a consistent member of our church for thirty years  For more than three months the family has been severely afflicted.  She was the mother of Rev. J.N. Knapp, whose obituary you published not long since.  Her vigilance at his sick and dying bed, was unabated.  Immediately following his death, Br. Knapp, the father, and a daughter, were taken very sick, and lay dangerously ill for weeks; then Mrs. Bierce, Mrs. Knapp's mother, was attacked with sickness; thus were three of her family for weeks very low.  Her anxiety and care at length exhausted her strength, and she gave up as she said, to die.  Four of the family were now very low, and it was doubted by many whether either of them would recover.  At length Br. Knapp and the daughter were permitted to give evidence of recover, but the aged grandmother, after giving a delightful example of Christian patience and resignation, fell asleep in Jesus.  In one week she was followed by her daughter, who died as above.  In the course of her sickness, and in her life of devotion, our departed sister afforded encouraging evidence that she is now entered upon her glorious reward in heaven.  Our Br. Knapp in this severe series of afflictions, has been sustained by the blessed consolations of the gospel, and though himself and daughter are still quite feeble, they murmur not at Divine Providence, but look forward with joy to the time when they shall rejoin their friends who are gone before.--A.J. Crandall

 

Anna (Green) Goit

Utica Observer, June 13, 1902

Mrs. Anna Goit died suddenly in Oswego Tuesday night, aged 53 years.  She had been in her usual health during the day and appeared to be so when she retired that evening.  Wednesday morning her daughter-in-law, Mrs. A.J. Goit, with whom she lived, upon going to the room found her in a chair fully dressed, but lifeless.  The coroner concluded that Mrs. Goit had been dead about 12 hours, that death was due to heart trouble.  Some time ago Mrs. Goit wrote her own obituary notice and requested that it be used in case of her death.  It reads:  "Mrs. Goit was the wife of the late William H. Goit.  She was born in Deerfield, Oneida county, in 1819, the daughter of Henry K. Green and Johanna B. Northrop.  She came to New Haven this county with her parents in 1832, and in 1841 married William H. Goit in Mexico. Soon after she moved to Oswego, which has been her home since.  She joined the First Baptist Church in 1860, and was a member at the time of her death.  She leaves one child, Adelbert J. Goit, and two grandchildren, Mrs. Anna Goit Earl of Oswego, and William G. Goit of Wilkesbarre."

 

Charles Gibson

Bainbridge Republican, December 3, 1880

A fatal shooting accident occurred at the Half-Way House, between Norwich and Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], at a shooting match on Wednesday afternoon of last week.  Charles Gibson, of Norwich, being the victim. The circumstances of the case, are as follows:  Gibson, who resides near Norwich, with his wife and mother, was employed to tend a target at the 100 yard range.  At this range live turkeys were set up and shot at, and a large target was placed behind, and the position in which the shots struck the board was indicated by pins which were placed on the board where the ball entered.  It was the duty of Gibson as soon as the shot was made, to insert the pin and then get out of the way of the target. A shot had been fired, as it appears by D. Hall, of Smyrna, and had hit the turkey, and Gibson went up to the target to mark the shot and stood with his back to the shooting and was inserting a pin, when another shot was fired which struck him about three inches above the hip, and about two inches to the right of the medial line, passing almost in a straight line through the body, severing an intestine and striking his right arm as it passed out of his body, half way between the wrist and elbow shattering the bone.  He started for the stand, but fell before reaching it.  He was taken up and carried to the Half-Way House, and Dr. McFarland of Oxford was summoned, who upon examination of the wounded man, pronounced his wound fatal.  he lived about 22 hours, dying at one o'clock on Thursday following.  It is claimed by most of those present that John Reed, of New Berlin, fired the fatal shot.  Mr. Reed is a veteran of the late war, and lost a leg in battle, for which he now draws a pension from the government.  He is a perfectly temperate man, and feels keenly the part he is compelled to sustain to the said affair. The deceased was about twenty-four years of age, a member of the Baptist church of Norwich, and a poor, but industrious man.  He leaves a young wife, to whom he has been married about a year and a half, in very impecunious circumstances, upon whom the sad blow falls with crushing weight.  As soon as Dr. Avery learned of the death he summoned a jury, who visited the Half-Way House, viewed the body, and an inquest was held, with I.W. Baker as foreman of the jury.  Several witnesses were examined, an autopsy of the body made by Dr. Thorp, of Oxford, and a verdict rendered that the deceased came to his death from a gunshot wound inflicted by John Reed, and that the shooting was wholly accidental.

 

Nathan P. Wheeler

Chenango Union, May 1, 1884

On Wednesday evening last, a telegram was received by Mrs. Nathan P. Wheeler, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] announcing the alarming illness of her husband in Brooklyn.  She left on the N.Y.O.&W. train, Thursday morning, and in the evening a dispatch was received, bearing the startling intelligence that he had died at five o'clock that afternoon, several hours before his wife could reach him.  His eldest daughter, Nettie, was with him during his sickness and at the time of his death.  There was a feeling of sadness throughout the community when it became known that one who had passed his useful life in our midst, and who had long been identified with the interests of our village had thus suddenly passed away.  For the last two years Mr. Wheeler had been extensively engaged in business in Brooklyn, his family most of the time residing here.  On Saturday, the 12th inst., he was called home on account of the severe illness of his venerable mother, returning to the city on the following Monday.  Although apparently in his usual good health, it appears that before his departure he complained of severe pains in his stomach, and that he continued to grow worse on his journey.  Arriving at Brooklyn, he consulted a physician, who prescribed for him, and he was able for the week to, at times, attend to his business.  On Sunday he was attacked with inflammation of the bowels, but on Wednesday was considered out of danger.  In the afternoon of that day he was suddenly taken worse, and in twenty-four hours was a corpse.  Deceased was a son of Jedediah R. Wheeler, of East Norwich, where he was born in 1830.  At an early age he entered the store of Chauncey G. Wheeler, in this village, a clerk, and upon the death of his employer, succeeded him in the business, which he successfully conducted for several years. Retiring from the mercantile business in 1866, he afterwards became agent for the Delaware and Hudson Coal Company; and in 1880 he accepted the position of Superintendent of the Coney Island property of the New York and Sea Beach Railroad Company, which he held for two years.  For the past two years he has been engaged in the manufacture  of oleomargarine in Brooklyn.  In politics he was a Republican, and has held the offices of Town Clerk, Supervisor and county Treasurer, the duties of which he discharged with ability and fidelity.  As a citizen he enjoyed the confidence and esteem of all. Genial in manner, active in business pursuits, and public spirited, he was one whose loss will be deeply felt.  He leaves a widow and two daughters to mourn his sudden departure.  The sympathies of the entire community are theirs in their affliction.  The remains arrived on the early Saturday morning train, via the D.L.&W. road, and were accompanied by Mrs. Wheeler, Her daughter Nettie, and his brother, Jedidiah R. Wheeler, Jr.  Funeral services were held at his late residence on East Main street, Sunday afternoon at three o'clock and there were present a large number of sympathizing friends. The services were conducted by Rev. Dr. Taylor of Binghamton, assisted by Rev. H.A. Delano, and the remains were conveyed to the cemetery, I.S. Newton, A.F. Gladding, T.D. Miller and Peter W. Clarke acting as bearers--followed by a large concourse of citizens.  Mr. Wheeler it appears was at his own request conveyed form his boarding house in Brooklyn, to a hospital, where he died.  A post mortem examination was made, which disclosed the fact that the cause of his death was a stricture of the smaller intestines, of apparently long standing, and for which there was no remedy.

White Family Tree - 1898

The White Family Tree

by Mrs. E.S. Whitman

Chenango Union, June 30, 1898

 

The White family dates far back into early English history.  Through a long line of ancestry the names that are given below are representative of a branch of the White family tree, of which these are records.

 

In 1620 William White and wife, a daughter of Governor Edward Winslow, came over in the Mayflower, and while in Cape Cod harbor, before landing, Peregrine White was born.  He married a daughter of William Bassett of Danbury.  Captain Peregrine White died July 20, 1704 in Mansfield.

 

His oldest son, Daniel White, married Hannah Hunt of Danbury in 1673. 

 

John White oldest son of Daniel White, was born in 1675.  He married Sarah Howlands, a descendant of the Howlands of the Mayflower.

 

Ezekiel White, a son of theirs, was born August 11, 1707

 

Douglas White, son of Ezekiel White, was born in 1743, and married Ruth Albee

 

Pelatiah White, second child of Douglas White, was born February 22, 1773, and married Eleanor Aldrich and to them were born ten children, namely:  Ruth Phetteplace, Mason White, Sophia Hoag, Rosina Bancroft, Polly King, Perlinia Fellows, Betsy Coats, Abel D. White, Orwin P. White, Vienna Willcox.

 

Mason White, the second child of Pelatiah White, was born March 28, 1808, and married Sally Phetteplace and to them were born four children, Malvina A. Pendleton, Marilla Smith Whitman, Anson J. White, George M. White, now representing the ninth generation of this branch, and of their children, which represent the tenth generation, Rev. Charles S. Pendleton of Oneonta, son of Malvina Pendleton of Norwich; Mason I. Smith, Coldwater, Mich.; Mrs. Eva A. Tillspaugh, Mrs. Mina W. Barre, Mrs. Libbie B. Stratton, Miss Hattie M. Whitman of Holmesville, George R Whitman, Hodunk, Mich.; children of Marilla Smith Whitman of Holmesville; William White, Edwin White, Holmesville; Charles White of Norwich; Miss Jessie M. White, children of Anson J and Addie French White of Holmesville; Cora White, Mason White, Miss Bessie White, Lewis White, Jay White, children of George M. White and Nancy Hoag White of Holmesville; and there are twelve of the eleven generation children, of the different families above mentioned of this branch of the White family tree.

 

We read in the early history that Peregrine White was very reverential toward the aged, especially his aged mother.  In her declining years he visited her daily. We are hopeful that such traits of character have been handed down to the present generation.

Obituaries (August 20)

Ada A. (Clare) Ormsby

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1902

 

 

Ada A. (Clare) Ormsby

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At her home, corner of Court and Henry streets, Wednesday, after an illness of about three weeks occurred the death of Ada A. Clare, wife of Raymond A. Ormsby, aged 23.  Mrs. Ormsby was the daughter of Allen J. and Mrs. Clare, now Mrs. Jennie Self.  She was born in this village and had always lived here except for a few years spent in the west during her girlhood.  In March, 1896, she was united in marriage to Raymond A. Ormsby, of this village.  He survives, together with two children. Mary Louise and James Byron Ormsby.  She also leaves her mother, Mrs. Jennie Self, and one brother, William Clare, of this village. Her funeral will be held from her late home on Saturday afternoon.

 

Amelia F. Case

Chenango Union, September 11, 1890

Amelia F., infant daughter of Frank L. and Ella Case, died at the home of her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Orsman Aldrich, in Norwich, September 5, 1890, aged four months.  The funeral services wee conducted by Rev. Edwin B. Olmstead, and the remains were interred at North Norwich.  For one brief summer did this little one gladden loving hearts with her presence; then the Saviour took her home, ere the touch of earth had stained her pure white soul.

 

Lydia Caroline Neely Buell Hand

1828 - 1894

Lydia Caroline Neely Buell-Hand, wife of Dr. Stephen M. Hand, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], who died Thursday night, was born in Windsor, Broome county, N.Y., October 29, 1828.  She received her education in Windsor academy in her native town, and was married to Dr. S.M. Hand, June 25, 1860 at Windsor, where the first four years of her married life were spent.  In 1864 she and her husband moved to Norwich, where she has since resided, beloved and respected by all who knew her.  When about twelve years of age she was very sick of measles which resulted in what is known as spinal congestion.  Since that time Mrs. Hand has been more or less affected by this congestion, as much so, at times it was almost unbearable.  She awoke about two o'clock on Thursday morning with an unusual severity of pains in her chest and arms and with irregular cardiac action, followed later with vomiting and extreme faintness for a few hours and then a few hours more of partial relief in response to remedies until at six o'clock she had a final paroxysm of vomiting and suddenly expired.  She had been a devoted member of the Protestant Episcopal church since her childhood.  She was a mother of one daughter which was born in September, 1866, but died at the age of four months.  She has one surviving sister, Mrs. Sarah L. Judd, who resides in her native town of Windsor.  The Buells of this town and North Norwich were her cousins.  the funeral took place Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock, from her late residence No. 26 West Main street, Rev. H.D. Stebbins officiating, assisted by Rev. H.M. Crydenwise and Rev. John Bradshaw, also by Rev. E.B. Olmstead, of Binghamton. Burial in Mt. Hope. [Norwich, NY]  

 

Lucinda (Miner) Winsor

Chenango Union, December 16, 1897

"Fallen asleep"--in Guilford, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], Thursday, December 2d, 1897, of pneumonia, Lucinda, wife of Joseph Winsor, aged 64 years.  Mrs. Winsor was born in Guilford, May 28, 1833.  Her maiden name was Miner and she was the daughter of John K. minor and Mary Gridley, both deceased.  Married, February 27, 1860, to Joseph Winsor, of Guilford, she was the mother of three children, Merritt L. and Neeton S. Winsor, both of Guilford, and Mrs. E. C. Field, of Utica, N.Y., all of whom survive her.  For many years Mrs. Winsor has been a consistent and active member of the First congregational Church of Guilford; quiet and unostentatious in manner, she was yet zealous in good works, a friend to the poor and a helper for the needy. She rests form her labors and her works do follow her. The funeral services were held at the family residence, Sabbath, December 5, the Rev. Dr. Ernest l. Tiffany officiating.  Text of address, 2d Tim, 1:5 "The unfeigned faith which was in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Euncie."  A large circle of friends mourn the loss of one of nature's noblewomen, sanctified by grace.

 

Ethel Thelma Anthony Winsor

Norwich Sun, September 25, 1957

Mrs. Ethel Thelma Anthony Winsor, 58, of 26 Plymouth street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], died at the Chenango Memorial Hospital at 1:10 yesterday afternoon. She had been hospitalized for the past two weeks.  Born February 12, 1899, in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], she was the daughter of Louis and Adella Cargele Anthony.  She married Lawrence R. Winsor, April 18, 1917, who survives.  Also surviving is a son, Norman A. Winsor, of Norwich; a grandson, David Winsor, Norwich; three brothers, Reinhold Anthony Guilford; Herbert Anthony, Sidney and Jack Anthony of New Berlin; a sister, Mrs. Hewiett H. Hendricks, Norwich, and several nieces and nephews.  The body is at the Robert J Fahy Funeral Home.  Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at the funeral home, the Rev. Lloyd S. Charters rector of Emmanuel Episcopal Church, officiating.  Burial will be in the Guilford Cemetery. 

 

 

Bainbridge High School, Class of 1953, Part 2

Bainbridge Central High School, Class of 1953

Senior Portraits

"Echo" 1953

 

 

Frank John Delello

 

Leola Frances Dibble

 

Shirley Ann Elder

 

Florence Nellie Engel

 

Phyllis Mae Friedenstine

 

Ward Alvin Giles



Obituaries (August 19)

Cyrus B. Martin

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1902

 

 

Hon. Cyrus B. Martin

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Hon. Cyrus B. Martin, one of the most conspicuous and influential citizens of Norwich, passed away at his home on North Broad street, shortly after 7 o'clock on Wednesday evening after an illness of only a few days.  He had been in his usual health until the Friday evening previous when he was prostrated by a sudden illness, at first believed to be due to a cold, but later developed into congestion of the brain, and he sank gradually until the end, though eminent specialists were called in consultation in his case with the family physician, Dr. Robert H . Phelps.  Mr. Martin was born in Argyle, Washington county, in September, 1832, and spent his earliest years in that vicinity.  When a young man he came to Norwich and resided here seven years during which he was associated with George C. Rice in the publication of the Chenango Telegraph.  During this period he married Ann Vernette Maydole, daughter of David Maydole, founder of the Maydole Hammer Company.  Mrs. Martin died a number of years ago.  In 1861, Mr. Martin went to Newburg, where he became editor and proprietor of the Newburg Journal, which he conducted for 14 years and gained a wide acquaintance among the newspaper men of the State.  Disposing of his business interests in Newburg he, in 1877, returned to Norwich and purchased one fourth interest in the hammer factory.  A few years later upon the death of Charles E. Merritt, Mr. Martin succeeded to the presidency of the company, a position he had retained ever since.  Upon the organization of the Chenango National Bank in 1883, he was chosen the first president and had continued in that office until his death.  He was the treasurer of the Norwich Water Works Company and was interested in other business enterprises.  He was a man of large public spirit and generous impulses.  He had taken an especial interest in the project and welfare of the Chenango Valley Home for aged people having donated the site for the building and was one of the largest contributors to the fund for the establishment of the home and was also liberal in his gifts for its maintenance. A year or two ago he donated additional lands adjoining the present property to meet the demands of a larger building in the future.  Many other worthy objects profited by his beneficence.  Mr. Martin had been a power in the Republican party of the county for years and though not officially connected with the party organ, the Chenango Telegraph had directed its editorial utterances for years.  He was a man of deep convictions and pronounced views.  though not a member he was a constant attendant upon the services of the Congregational Church and contributed generously to its support.  His death is a distinct loss to the community and the interests with which he was connected.  Of his immediate family three daughters survive, Mrs.  Howard D. Newton, Mrs. Homer Higley and Mrs. May D. M. Stebbins.  He also leaves one sister, Mrs. David hall, of East Hartford, Washington county.  His funeral will occur to-morrow (Saturday) afternoon at 2 o'clock.  Rev. Daniel W. Dexter will officiate.

Hattie L. Rider
1842 - 1874

RIDER:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on 20th --- [1874], Hattie L., wife of Mr. Nathan Rider, aged 32 years.   Gone home!  How precious the words, how full of meaning to the friends of the departed, when there is unmistakable evidence that Christ was a light to their path, "through the dark valley and shadow of death."  A bright, happy and glorious life, beyond Death's river awaiteth those who "trust in God's promise, abideth in the faith," and "doeth the will of the Master."  In the death of Mrs. Hattie L. Rider of this place (daughter of Wm. Main, deceased) on Thursday, these truths were verified. A little more than a year ago, disease with its unyielding grasp, fastened upon her, and during the twelve long months she was an unusually great sufferer.  the nature of her disease was such that it baffled the skill of the most able physicians.  Resignated, mingled with hope, solaced her many weary and sleepless hours.  Patiently and without murmuring did she meet the wasting away of the casket that was soon to set the jewel free.  All that kind and sympathizing friends could do to alleviate her sufferings was done.  Her every wish was granted.  But how with all human efforts, when the Master calls "come home."  As the taper in the socket goes out, her life sweetly and peacefully passed away.  "Death loves a shining mark"  How truthful the saying in the death of Mrs. Rider, sweetness of disposition, retiring and modest in demeanor, cheerful and buoyant in spirit, kind and generous to neighbors, and loving to relatives and friends, were characteristics that marked her every day life.  Her domestic and social relations were always ennobling and pleasing.  A husband, mother, sister and two brothers sadly mourn their loss, but to her it is infinite gain.  She has gone to her reward where the full fruition of a well spent life shall be hers.

Kate Conkling

Chenango Union, April 10, 1884

Miss Kate Conkling, an amiable lady of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], died at her residence on Saturday morning last, aged sixty years.  Deceased was sister of the late Mrs. David Griffing, who four years since was burned to death, probably from the explosion of a lamp in her room.  Miss Conkling, with her invalid mother, occupied rooms on the second floor of the Griffing residence and she never fully recovered from the shock occasioned by that terrible affair.  For years past, she has been a great sufferer, and her death resulted from a fatal disease. Her aged and invalid mother survives her.  Miss Conkling was a cousin of Hon. Roscoe Conkling, and many friends from Utica attended her funeral, which was held on Monday afternoon.  Rev. T.A. Stephenson, rector of Christ church, Sherburne, conducted the services.

John Wylie

Chenango Union, April 10, 1884

John Wylie, one of the pioneers of this section, died at his home in New Ohio [Broome Co., NY], March 25th, aged 86 years.  he had been one of the hard working men that helped to clear the forest and make this country what it is now.  He settled on the farm where he died, seventy years ago, before there had been a tree cut or any improvements made within several miles, living several years alone.  His wife died about four years ago, after they had lived together fifty-eight years.  Mr. Wylie cleared and improved three large farms, leaving each of his three sons an ample inheritance.--American
 

Eliza Fitch

FITCH:  in Delhi, N.Y., March 31, 1891, Mrs. Eliza Fitch, aged 55 years.  Deceased in maidenhood was Eliza Kelly, and lived in the family of Meritt G. McKeon, an honored principal of Oxford Academy during his residence in this village, and in Meredith and Delhi, Delaware County.

Hon. Nelson K. Wheeler

Bainbridge Republican, October 1, 1880

Hon. Nelson K. Wheeler died at Deposit [Delaware Co., NY] on Tuesday evening, Sept. 21st.  Judge Wheeler was a prominent and influential public man in Del. county thirty years ago, having filled the offices of District Attorney, County Judge and member of Assembly, and was regarded as a man of strict integrity and uprightness.  His history and the circumstances of his illness are given in the following extract from the N.Y. Times:

Police Justice Nelson K. Wheeler died of heart disease on Tuesday night at his farm in Deposit, Delaware county, N.Y.  The news was conveyed to his associates in this city yesterday by a telegram from his brother, and the Court of Special Sessions was at once adjourned out of respect to his memory, the motion of adjournment being made by Police Justice Smith.  Justice Wheeler was in his seventy-third year, but was still possessed of so vigorous a constitution that he seemed much younger.  Six weeks ago he complained of trouble in the region of the heart. The difficulty increased, and soon he was unable either to walk or to ride, and during the past month, was confined to his bed.  His death had been daily expected during the last fortnight, all hope having been abandoned by his physicians.

The deceased was the son of William Wheeler, a respectable and well-to-do farmer in Delaware county.  Although fond of agriculture; young Wheeler choose law as a profession, and studied diligently in his native town, and was admitted to practice over half a century ago, at the age of 21 years. He rose steadily in the ranks of his calling and finally became District-Attorney of Delaware county, and afterward County Judge, serving two terms in the former office.  In the meantime he had taken an active part in politics, identifying himself with the Republican party of which he was always a staunch and loyal member.  He was elected to the Assembly in 1843, and at the close of his labors as District-Attorney was again sent to the Assembly.  At the expiration of his term as County Judge he went West, and with Samuel J. Tilden and the late William B. Ogden, became interested in Western railroad matters, being one of the prime movers in the railroad consolidation of thirty years ago.  he drew up the papers which effected the consolidation of the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad in 1854.  After several years' residence in the Western country he removed with his family to High Bridge, and became actively interested in the scheme for the annexation of Westchester county to the metropolis.  It was largely due to his efforts that the act effecting the annexation was perfected. After the annexation, Mayor Havemeyer, in 1874, appointed him Police justice for a term of ten years, and he filled the office up to the time of his death, generally presiding at the court in Fordham.

In early life Justice Wheeler married the sister of the late William B. Ogden, who survives him.  He had five children--a son and four daughters.  He was a man of strict integrity, and was conscientious in the discharge of his public duties.  He was careful almost to a fault, and had methods from which he never deviated.  His personal peculiarities and gruff manners led many to misjudge his character, but those who knew him intimately saw and appreciated his good qualities of heart and mind.  He had a taste for farming, and owned a thriving farm of 500 acres in Delaware county.  Upon it he maintained a fine dairy, in which he took an almost childish pride.  The funeral will take place on Friday from the Presbyterian church at Deposit.

 

Martin Harmon Delivers the Mail (early 1900s)

Martin Harman, Mail Carrier from the Early 1900s

Sunday Press, December 18, 1955

 

Martin W. Harman, who lives in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], is a retired rural free delivery carrier who worked in the days before automobiles and paved roads were in common use.  Mr. Harman started carrying mail over his route on Oct. 1, 1903 when rural service was first inaugurated.  He says he is the only carrier still living in the Susquehanna Valley who started on the first route.  The pay at that time was $50 a month with no allowance made for equipment so that the carrier had to maintain two horses, a wagon for summer and a sleigh for winter driving.  The only two holidays that they had were the Fourth of July and Thanksgiving Day and one thing that they had to be thankful for was that no package heavier than 4 ounces could be sent through the mail.  Parcel Post was not started until later.

 

Mr. Harman recalls that an RFD carrier was often called upon to perform tasks not mentioned in the Book of Rules. At one mail box he found the flag up, but when he reached in to pick up the outgoing letter, he found, instead, a note addressed to himself.  It read, "Mr. Harman, will you please feed the pigs?  We have gone to the Fair."  So he took time out to do the homely task. 

 

It some of the far back roads the carrier was the only person that would go by one's house, perhaps for days.  Mr. Harman remembers an old lady who lived all alone on one of these remote farms.  She always watched for him and came out to talk.  One day she said, "Martin, if you don't see me around when you come by, you open the door and come in.  I might get sick."  Some days later he drove up to the mail box and waited a couple of minutes, but she didn't appear.  Going inside, he called, but there was no answer.  So he pushed open the bedroom door.  There she lay, face down on the floor, her night cap and gown on, ready for bed.  She had been dead since the night before.  So Mr. Harman called a neighbor and waited there until someone came.

 

Another day a blizzard was raging.  the wind was bitter cold and the snow blew across the hill so that Mr. Harman couldn't see the road.  He had to let the horse find the way.  coming out on top of a hill, he caught glimpses of what looked like a hugh tumbleweed blowing along.  It rolled over and over, tossed by the strong wind.  He clucked to his horses and caught up with the object which turned out to be an old lady who used to travel around selling salve.  Her voluminous petticoats blew out so that as she rolled along she resembled nothing so much as a giant tumble week.  he picked her up, put her in his sleigh and carried her to her destination.

 

The U.S. Postal Inspector questioned him one day concerning passengers.  "You don't let anyone ride with you, do you?" 

"Well," Mr. Harman replied, "If I should see a man with a broken leg, don't you think that I ought to give him a ride?" 

"Under those circumstances, it would probably be all right," the Inspector replied. 

"Now suppose a pretty young lady comes out and asks to ride with me," Mr. Harman continued, "What then?"

The inspector grinned, "Have her break her leg and get in."

 

Mr. Harman's 28 mile route often took from early morning until 7:30 at night to cover, if the snow was deep or the mud thick and soupy.  When the going was good he would drive one horse one day, changing to the other one the next day but in bad weather two horses were needed to make the grade.  The roads were not plowed out then; in fact, Mr. Harman says that when he first started carrying mail, there were no paved streets in the village of Bainbridge.  There never was a winter when a carrier could follow the roads all season long; they would drift so full that much of the time they had to drive through the lots.

 

The carrier used to be a sort of handyman along his route, helping out wherever he was needed.  Mr. Harman says he often stopped to help put out brush fires that were threatening to get out of hand.  Once, coming near a house he saw the farmer's wife peering anxiously down the road.  "Martin" she said, when he drove up, "a rough-looking man just went by here and my girls are down the road picking berries.  I'm worried."  Mr. Harman had a buckboard wagon and he sent his horses along at a spanking clip soon overtaking the stranger, "Want a lift?" he asked as he drew up beside him.  "Yes." the man replied, climbing in.  At the next house Mr. Harman said that he made a lot of noise, calling to the people that he had no mail for them today, so that they would be sure to see that he had the stranger with him and telephone back to their worried neighbor.

 

Mr. Harman remembers that when parcel post came, the children of the more well-to-do people received many packages at Christmas time, while the less fortunate ones couldn't afford to send to the mail order houses.  So he sort of played Santa Claus, gathering up sleds about the village and painting them with bright colors.  Good used clothing came in handy, too, and he knew just which children needed it.

 

Mr. Harman, who was 78 years old Sept. 4, figures that during the years he drove horses (before changing to an automobile) that black Dinah and chestnut-colored Prince traveled more than 131,000 miles or more than five times the distance around the earth at the equator.  He was one of 10 children, leaving school when he finished the seventh grade to go to work in Crumps Fiberless Coconut Factory, which was then located in Bainbridge.  He earned ten cents a hundred peeling coconuts and got so he could peel 1,600 a day.  When he was 17, he went to work for C.C. Hovey, a wealthy man who owned some fine horses, including a sister of the great Maude S.  He stayed there three years.  But his lack of education bothered him so one morning he said, "Mr. Hovey, I am going to quit."

"Has something gone wrong?" Mr. Hovey inquired.

"No," the lad replied, "I think I'll go back to school."

"A Commendable idea," Mr.  Hovey said, "If you want to get up early and work late and keep your job, I'll pay you the same wages you are earning now, while you go to school."

Mr. Harman kept the job and also did four years of high school work in two.  He went to the Rochester Business Institute and later studied law with the late Irving J. Tillman.  He never went to law school, however, says he got married instead.

 

When asked what he does now to pass the time, he says that he and Mrs. Harman follow the sun, meaning that they go south in the winter and in the summer enjoy their peasant home in Kirby street, Bainbridge.



Obituaries (August 18)

Lydia McLagan

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1902

 

Mrs. Lydia M. (Sheldon) McLagan

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. Lydia M. McLagan died at the home of her son, George H. McLagan, in the southeastern portion of the town of Norwich on Tuesday, after a lingering illness.  Mrs. McLagan was the widow of Nelson McLagan, who died in 1884.  She was born in the town of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], October 7, 1834, and had always lived in this vicinity excepting for a few years spent in the west when her husband was in business in De Kalb, Ill. She was a woman highly esteemed and greatly loved by those who knew her.  She is survived by two sons, George, with whom she made her home, and Benjamin F., of this village, and one daughter, Mrs. John Jacoby, of Norwich.  Three sisters also survive, Mrs. Philo Shelton and Mrs. Henry L. White, of Guilford, and Mrs. N.A. Bemis, of Odell, Ill.; also by one brother, William Sheldon, of this village.  Her funeral was attended on Thursday from her late home.  Interment was made in the cemetery at North Guilford.

Thomas J. Wilkins

Bainbridge Republican, October 8, 1880

Thomas J. Wilkins, a former resident of this place, died at Leesburg, Va., Sept 29, of fever.  About one year ago he moved to Leesburg where he remained until the time of his death.  He was a true and faithful member of the Episcopal church, a member of the G.A.R., at this place, and but one short year ago, at the reunion of the 114th regiment held at this place, Mr. Wilkins acted as marshal on that occasion.  He was also a member of Afton lodge, no. 800, F.&A.M.  A true and faithful worker, but he has gone to his long home, he has been removed by the Great creator from the cares and troubles of this "transitory existence" to a state of endless duration, and there we must leave him in the hand of Him who has done all things well.

 

Moses Axtell

Bainbridge Republican, October 29, 1880

Barbourville [Delaware Co., NY]:  Moses Axtell died last week.  He was the oldest inhabitant in this vicinity.  He came to this part of the country 77 years ago, when he was a boy of thirteen.  He died at the residence of his son, William Axtell, with whom he has lived some years.

 

John McNulty

Chenango Union, April 24, 1884

On Friday morning the body of John McNulty, who had been missing since the Tuesday evening previous, was found in the Chenango river, near the residence of C.A. McFarland, about three miles below this village.  The body lay partly on its side near the bank in shallow water, and a short distance down stream floated a whisky bottle about half filled.  McNulty resided on a farm in Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], owned by Miller & Perkins, and on Tuesday he went to Greene and back home, and at five P.M., hitched up hi horse, against the wishes of his family, and came to this village to see Mr. Perkins.  He drank some liquor, purchased a half pint of whisky, did his business with Mr. Perkins, who noticed that he was intoxicated, and about nine o'clock started for home, and that was the last seen of him alive. Not returning home, his family became alarmed, and Wednesday his son started out in search of him.  He found his horse and wagon at the Loomis farm, several miles below where the body was found, where it was discovered standing by the watering trough that morning.  Nothing was heard of the owner until late on Thursday, when his cap was found in the old canal bed near McFarland's and a fence showed marks of a wagon running against it, and a place also showed where a horse had stood for some time.  Further search by men in that vicinity on Friday revealed the body as above related.  The supposition is that McNulty's horse ran into the fence and threw him out of the wagon, or that he fell out, and in a confused condition wandered across the old canal bed and into the river close by, where he became exhausted and was drowned  Tracks showed that he had wandered some distance, and it is evident that had the night been otherwise than a very dark one, he could have seen where he was going.  The body was only covered by an inch or two of water.  McNaulty was a man about 65 years of age.  He came to this section from Canada, we believe, at the time the midland railroad was building, on which he had sub contracts.  He was given to occasional drinking to excess.. He leaves a wife and eight children and was a man of considerable intelligence.  Coroner Avery commenced an inquest at the St. James Hotel in this village on Friday, which was concluded on Saturday, the jury finding that deceased came to his death by asphyxia from drowning; that he was under the influence of liquor, and that his death was caused accidentally by his own act.  His funeral was held on Sunday.--Times.   Deceased formerly resided in Norwich, and was sub-contractor on the Midland and D.L.& W. roads at the time they were building.

 

Martha (Baldwin) Babcock

Chenango Union, April 24, 1884

Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. Martha Babcock, widow of Elias Babcock, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Perkins, at No. 153 Eat 124th st. New York city, April 14th, 1884.  She was born November, 1788, near New Haven, Conn., in what is now the town of Woodbridge.  Her maiden name was Baldwin.  Her husband, Elias Babcock, was the most successful business man in the early history of Sherburne.  He died June 10, 1833, aged 55 years, the richest man in Chenango galley at that time.  His house was at or near where the Stephen Medbury house now stands. At first he had a store connected with his house.  Afterwards he had a store near where now is the gas tank of the Congregational church.  After her husband's death Mrs. Babcock bought the house where Mrs. Harvey now lives, and occupied it until all of her children had found new homes.  About 1852 she left Sherburne and resided with one and another of her children until her death.  Her remains were brought to Sherburne and interred in the congregational cemetery on the 17th inst.  Rev. Mr Teller officiating.  The deceased was a member of the congregational church at Norwich.  Her surviving children are Elvira P., widow of Benjamin F. Rexford Esq., of Norwich, N.Y.; Charles W. Babcock, Esq., of Cuyahoga Falls, O.,; John E. Babcock, Esq., Towanda, Pa.; Cynthia N., wife of John DeWitt Rexford, of Janesville, Wis., and Adaline S., wife of James W. Perkins, of New York city--News

Death Notices

Chenango Union, August 28, 1872

JONES:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] August 9th, Nancy A., wife of Fred H. Jones, aged 26 years

JONES:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] August 15th, Mr. Fred H. Jones, aged 28 years.

WATERS:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], July 24th, Mr. Lewis J. Waters, aged 27 years, formerly of Sherburne.

RACKETT:  In East Marion, Long Island, August 15th, of cholera infantum, Lydia Jemima, daughter of A.C. and Caroline Rackett, aged 10 months and 10 days.

QUINN:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], July 11th, Kitty H., only daughter of Francis and Margaret Quinn, aged 9 months. 

Marriages (August 17)

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Beardsley

Bainbridge Republican, October 15, 1880

A large company of friends and relatives of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Beardsley assembled at their residence on Saturday, Oct. 3d, to celebrate the 48th anniversary of their wedding.  Load after load came until the house was filled to overflowing.  All seemed happy and contented.  The tables were burdened with all the good things heart could wish.  This was a day of joy, feasting and gladness, to all present.  Dorastus Greene made some very appropriate remarks for the occasion. the presents were very nice indeed.  It was a day that will be long remembered by Mr. and Mrs. Beardsley.

 

Fuller - Gage

Bainbridge Republican, October 15, 1880

A pleasant company of about forty, gathered at the residence of John Fowler, in Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 6th, to witness the marriage of their adopted daughter, Mary Gage, to Charles Fuller, of Sidney [Delaware Co., NY].  The ceremony was performed by Rev. L.A.Wild, of Rockdale. The bride was the recipient of many beautiful and valuable gifts.  The wise and prudent pair, instead of spending a little fortune on a bridal trip, commenced housekeeping immediately, having everything in readiness, and an abundance of good wishes from warm-hearted friends, who joyfully congratulate the happy bride and groom, and wish them prosperity, peace and love, through all life's changing scenes.

And may their griefs be always light,

Their joys calm and serene;

Their greatest cares, be "little ones,"

But few, and far between.

 

Graves - Wheeler

Bainbridge Republican, October 15, 1880

Geo. Graves, the well-known furniture dealer of this village as will be seen by reference to our marriage notices, was united in the bonds of wedlock on Wednesday with Miss Mary J. Wheeler, an estimable young lady of Greene [Chenango Co., NY]. The Republican office offers its warmest congratulations to the happy pair, and hopes their relations though "Grave" in name, will be jolly in experience.

 

Mr. & Mrs. Leroy Searles

1936

Mr. and Mrs. Leroy N. Searles, of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], former Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] residents, returned Tuesday to the Searles homestead, now occupied by their son and family, Mr. and Mrs. Ward Searles, where they were greeted by their children and families, who had gathered to help them celebrate their Golden Wedding Anniversary.  Their former home presented a gala appearance with the rooms decorated with a profusion of yellow chrysanthemums and pom-pons, and amidst these surroundings, a most enjoyable day was spent.  A four-course dinner was served at noon, following which an appropriate program was presented by the children and grandchildren under the direction of Mrs. Edwin Jocelyn, of Binghamton, which included the following:  Baritone solo by Alfred Buckley; an anniversary greeting by Carol Ann Searles; a poem, " A Happy Golden Wedding," by Emily Searles; an appropriate selection to the tune of "Put on Your Old Grey Bonnet," by a quartet of the children; reading, "From all Your Grandchildren," by Marion Davis; reading "Fifty Years Ago," by Jessamine Davis; reading by Edward Searles; a history of the Searles family by Homer Searles, duet by Alfred Buckley and Homer King, and a piano solo by Mrs. Jocelyn.  Mr. and Mrs. Searles were presented with a purse of money by their eldest son, Ralph Searles, in behalf of the guests. They were also recipients of other lovely gifts.  Mr. and Mrs. Searles were united in marriage in North Sanford, N.Y. [Broome Co.], Nov. 17, 1886, at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Addison King; the ceremony being performed by the Rev. Leach, of Afton, N.Y.  Following they lived in Binghamton until 1907, when they moved to Bainbridge, where they were engaged in farming on the Searles homestead.  About ten years ago they returned to Binghamton, where they still reside.

 

Marriage Notices

Chenango Telegraph, April 29, 1835

At Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on Sunday evening, the 19th inst. by the Rev. L. Bush, Samuel McKoon, esq. to Miss Adelia Perkins, daughter of Capt. James Perkins, all of that place.

 

At Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on Tuesday evening, 21st inst. by Rev. N.H. Adams, Mr. Frederick Juliand, to Miss Jane Cameron Ringer, all of that village.

 

Bainbridge Republican, December 10, 1880

BENNETT - WILLIAMS:  In Bainbridge, Dec. 1st, at the residence of the bride's parents, by Rev L. E. Wheeler, J. Howard Bennett of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Frank M. Williams, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

Obituaries (August 17)

Dr. Mary A. (Packer) Case

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1902

 

Dr. Mary A. (Packer) Case

 

Dr. Mary A. Case died at her home in Preston [Chenango Co., NY] Friday of last week.  Dr. Case passed her 83d birthday in December last and had been in feeble health for several years.  She was the daughter of Deacon Elisha and Lucy Mason Packer and spent her early life in Preston.  In the spring of 1854 she graduated from the first medical school opened for women in New York city.  Coming to Norwich in 1856, she enjoyed a successful practice of nearly 20 years, when overwork began to affect her health.  As a reformer in curative methods and as a lady physician she met with the usual opposition, which, instead of discouraging, only urged her to closer study and higher aim and resulted in the kindest appreciation of her brother physicians.  She was the oldest member of the Congregational Church of Preston Center, of which she had been a member over 70 years.  Being a woman of strong Christian character she sought not only to relieve physical pain and suffering, but to bring comfort and cheer to the sick and dying.  In 1890 she fell and broke her hip and since that time had been a great sufferer, and for more than a year was in very feeble health. Her husband, Austin Case, died some years ago.  She is survived by one son, Edwin A. Case, and a daughter, Mrs. Mary E. Wilbur; also one sister, Mrs. Cornelia Kaercher, all of Preston.  [Buried Mt. Hope Cemetery, Norwich, Chenango Co., NY]

Susanna (Haight) Williamson

Northern Christian Advocate, 1849

Sister Susanna Williamson, wife of Garrett Williamson, and daughter of David Haight, died August 19, 1849, in the town of Chenango, Broome co., N.Y., in the 72d year of her age.  She was born in Rye, Westchester Co., N.Y., in 1777--was married in 1798 and emigrated to this place in 1806; and joined the M.E. Church during the labors of the Rev. Silas Comfort on this circuit, some 20 years ago.  Sister Williamson was a faithful child of God, and, as might be expected, she enjoyed the peaceful presence of the Lord in her last moments.  She has gone, we doubt not, to rest in heaven.  She has left to mourn, a large circle of friends and the companion of her youth, full of years, whose head is whitened with the frost of more than seventy winters.  May they all meet her in heaven.---Levi Pitts.

Fred Bullock

Chenango Union, December 8, 1881

On Saturday afternoon, while Fred bullock was at work taking stones out of the old aqueduct south of Sherburne village [Chenango Co., NY],  a large mass of earth fell in, and throwing him against the side of an excavation, crushed him to death.  The ribs were all broken in and other bones of his body were jammed to pieces.  Mr. Bullock was a young man of excellent character and industrious habits and his untimely and shocking death is deeply regretted.

Lewis S. White

Chenango Union, April 17, 1884

Lewis S. White, a prominent citizen of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], died at his residence in that city on Tuesday, of typhoid pneumonia.  Deceased was a son of the late Samuel White, of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].  in 1848 he went to Binghamton, where he engaged in the brewing business, in which he was interested until his death, acquiring a handsome fortune.  He has held offices of public trust, was stockholder and for many years a director of the city National Bank, and for a number of years vestryman of Christ church. He leaves a wife and several children.  His remains were taken to New Berlin for interment.

Albert Noyes

Chenango Union, April 24, 1884

 

"It always thrills me with sadness

To hear of a young life done,

Cut down in its pride and promise

When we count it just begun."

 

East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY]:  The whole community were startled last Tuesday morning, at the unexpected news that Albert, only child of J. Noyes, was dead.  Coming to this place with his parents last winter, a stranger, yet his pleasant, genial manners had won him a place in the hearts of those who had come to know him.  For a few days he had been sick with measles, and being of a delicate constitution, the disease suddenly assumed an alarming aspect, and in a few hours he was gone. The funeral was held Thursday.  Rev. h.W.H. Watkins spoke from these words:  "I pray thee, let me go over, and see the good land that is beyond Jordan. Thou shalt not go over this Jordan."  Subject:  "Unfulfilled Hopes."  The bereaved parents have the sympathy of all in this their deep affliction.  May they realize the truth of that precious promise:  "I will not leave you comfortless; I will come to you."

Marshall Decker

Chenango Union, May 29, 1884

Marshall Decker, who was one of the firm of George Tubbs & Co., contractors for the construction of the Norwich water works, was drowned at Sayre, Pa., on Wednesday of last week, where he was to have superintended the building of a new reservoir.  He was in Oneida on the Saturday previous, where he had been engaged in the building of the water works and ordered his trunks sent to Sayre.  At the time of the drowning, Mr. Decker, in company with a man named Merrill and two others, was on his way back from the water works when the boat was upset by coming in contact with the ferry rope.  The two companions of Decker and Merrill were rescued after making heroic efforts to save themselves, but the former were not so fortunate.  Howard Elmer, President of the water works, has offered a reward of $200 for the recovery of the remains.  The Elmira Advertiser says:  "Decker, the water works boss, was forty-five or fifty years of age, and came here last Sunday night from his home at Irvington, on the Hudson River Railroad.  He engaged quarters for two months at the Hotel Wilbur, intending to make that house his home during his temporary stay in town.  He was a widower, and leaves a son about twenty years old, who is employed in a railroad ticket office at Utica. The unfortunate man was once proprietor of the New England House, in Rochester.  Merrill, the other drowned man, was an Englishman about twenty five or thirty years of age.  His relatives, if he has any in this country, are not known here.  He had just come over from England."  During his residence in Norwich, Mr. Decker made many friends, who learn with regret of his untimely death.  his age was forty-two years.

 

Clarence P. Case

The Guilford News, October 22, 1930

Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]:  The funeral of Clarence P. Case was held from his late home on north Main street, Thursday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock, the Rev. T.J. Collar of Aurora officiating.  Mr. Case was well known not only in Bainbridge but throughout all the surrounding territory because of his love of music.  He played the cornet in Teachout's orchestra and it was he who organized the orchestra and kept it together for many years, until about three years ago it was disbanded because of his failing health.  mr. Case is survived by his wife, one son, Clifford Case, and two grandchildren of this place.

Death Notices

Chenango Telegraph, April 29, 1835

In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on Tuesday, the 21st isn't. after a short illness, Mrs. Jane Farr, widow of the late Bela Farr, aged 53 years.

In Butternuts, Otsego co., on the 6th inst. after a protracted illness, Mr. James H. Preston, formerly of this town, aged about 60 years.

Post listing, August 10 - 16, 2015

Listing of blog postings for the week of August 10 - 16, 2015

Marriages

Posted August 12, 2015

Bert Eugene Lewis - Elizabeth Lucetta Osborne (1903)

Alice R. White - W.A.Taylor (1884)

Mr. & Mrs. John Smith (15th anniversary, 1884)

Mt. Upton Marriages (1880)

     Frank Prentice

     Yale Richmond

     Hattie Ann Hoight

     Calvin Chamberlin - Era Hoag

     Howard Green - Emma Hollis

Posted August 16, 2015
Vital Statistics, Bainbridge, NY, Marriages 1908

 

Obituaries

Posted August 10, 2015

Clarence A. Cary (Norwich, 1901)

Wallace Baker (Cayuga Lake, 1880)  Drowning

Betsey Teachout Adams (Bainbridge, 1907)

Louisa C. Teachout (Bainbridge, 1922)

Lydia Teachout Adams (Bainbridge, 1927)

Posted August 11, 2015
Demmon Wait (Norwich, 1901)
Lydia Ann (Marsh) Waterman (Pembroke, 1848)
Francis Coit Fargo (Hastings, 1848)
Samuel Thompson (Sterling, 1848)
Joseph B. Chaffee (Afton, Binghamton, 1883)
Eliza H. Chapman (Norwich, Guilford, 1884)

Posted August 12, 2015
John J. Curley (Norwich, 1901)
David Fisk (Oxford, 1880)
George Scofield (Walton, 1880)
William Lovee (Preston, 1880)
Edwin C. Brooks (Norwich, 1884

Posted August 13, 2015
Harriet (Root) young (Guilford, 1901)
Charles Martin (Coventry, 1895)
Harriet (Bolt) Lines (Otego, 1929)
Wallace May (Bainbridge, 1938)

Posted August 14, 2015
Laura Arthusa (Smith) Mills (Norwich, Guilford, 1901)
Mr. M.J. Loundsberry (Binghamton)
Jabez May (Bainbridge, Penn Yan)
Elizabeth (Loomis) Scott Stever (Bainbridge, 1897)
Dewitt Osborne (Norwich, 1914)
Clarence Osborne (Norwich, 1945)

Posted August 15, 2015
Lydia (Smith) Davis (Norwich, 1902)
May Dickinson (Whitney Point, 1880)
Harriet M. (Bosworth) Chamberlain (Norwich, 1884)

Posted August 16, 2015
Isabella Cowan (Norwich, 1902)
Nathan Geer (Plymouth, 1849)
Henry Champlin (Afton, 1884)
Abby Pixley (Afton, 1884) drowning accident
Eva Porter (Norwich, 1884)
James Casey (Bainbridge, Guilford, 1880



 

Miscellaneous

Posted August 10, 2015

Nursery School Graduation, Bainbridge, NY, 1969 - Photo

Posted August 11, 2015
Rev. Spencer J. Ford, Norwich, NY - 1901
Bainbridge Needs a Pagoda - 1880

Posted August 12, 2015
Ira A. Yale Writes from the West - 1880

Posted August 13, 2015
Bainbridge Central High School Class of 1953, part 1

Posted August 14, 2015
Esther Mudge Accused of Infanticide, 1879

Posted August 16, 2015
Sidney Dimock letter from the West, 1880


Marriages, Bainbridge, NY, 1908

1908 Vital Statistics

Bainbridge Republican, January 21, 1909

 

Marriages -1908

 

                                     January 18          William H. Moore and Anna F. Cook

                                     January 27          Edward Burnside and Mable Baker

 

                                     March 4               George W. Beverley and Martha A. Beach

 

                                     April 20               Lester A. Kilpatrick and Ethel D. Bentley

 

                                     June 3                  Dewitt Thorp and Hazel Winsor

                                     June 10                Fred M Ketchum and Flossie A. Finch

 

                                     August 1              Harry Nelson Beams and Leita Ruth Harper

                                     August 12            George Hoyt and Pearl E. Vanderwalker

                                     August 20            Robert B. Kirkland and  Carrie F. Strong

 

                                     September 26      Wm. Leroy Stethers and Lora Horton Stevens

 

                                     October 28           Fred E. Neff and Harriett E. Allen

 

                                     December 1         John Merrit Ryan and Mabel M. Young

                                     December 29       Samuel Arthur Bramble and Ida Hathaway

                                     December 31       Charlie E. Pettys and Laura Elliott

Sidney Dimock Letter from the West, 1880

From the Far West

Bainbridge Republican, October 15, 1880

 

Leadville, Col. Oct. 3d

Friend Republican:  Since I last wrote you I have been so occupied in mining and prospecting, that I could not find time to write, or even think of past events.  I will now give you a few notes gathered by the way, incidental to the customs of this part of the world.  After a few months skirmishing among the "hills," I pitched my tent at the head of Bear Gulch, and located a claim that now promises to become a paying one.  I will describe the same as a claim, and not as a mine, because it cannot be rightfully called a mine until it produces pay ore; that is, ore that will yield fifty ounces of silver to the ton.  The rock taken from this claim crops to the surface, and carries a small percentage of silver, mixed with base metals, iron, copper and antimony.  It is the theory of practical miners that when the mineral bodies were formed, the base metals being lighter, were thrown at or near the surface, while the heavier and more precious ones, gold and silver, remain at a greater depth.  However true that may be, it often happens that old miners, with all their stories and knowledge of mines, are misled from the path of fortune, and some inexperienced one comes upon the scene and walks off with the precious metal.  Future development will test the richness of the claim mentioned.  The location is  upon the divide, or Backbone of the continent, and presents one of the most inspiring views to be witnessed upon the American continent, with the stately mountains of the Pacific slope to be seen a hundred miles away towards the setting sun; with their lofty peaks, resembling the dome of the National capital, and in point of architecture the New York state capitol, but a thousand times more imposing in appearance and grandeur.  At the same time one experiences the dreadful current of air sweeping across the divide at an altitude of thirteen thousand feet coming as it would seem directly form the Pacific ocean, with all the velocity of a South Sea hurricane.  I will mention some of the trials and pleasures of camp life.  Life in camp can be enjoyed with pleasant weather, but when the storms of the rocky Mountains are raging, then you realize the terrible situation.  Imagine yourself in camp the first of September, and the whole surface of the country about you covered with snow four inches deep, and when you awake in the morning find your tent surrounded with donkeys, and their musical tones warning you to roll out and attend to duties in camp.  In the month of August while riding in the saddle, I encountered one of the most violent snow storms known to any region; and at times during the tempest my horse refused to proceed any further and would plunge into the dense forest and there remain until the storm had abated.  The 20th of August, while proceeding up the mountain, I gathered a handsome bouquet of flowers, and when I had completed my bouquet I was obliged to seek shelter beneath a cliff of rocks, and there secluded myself one full hour from the driving snow storm. A few weeks ago, I had occasion to cross the range, a distance of fifty miles and departed from camp alone, taken saddle passage, with my Henry rifle to protect me from the "Big Ones;"  but the first day out I fell in company with my traveling companion, Smith.  While in camp a friend of his rode in and dismounted.  The friend was a lawyer form Leadville, one of those fellows that growl in the kennel of justice; he was looking after some mining interests near by, and had specimens of gold rock in his possession.  After a few remarks made in regard to his mission, he became very enthusiastic over his discoveries, and stated that the gold exhibited itself upon the surface a distance of nine thousand feet, and the party had located six claims upon the lode.  While describing the same in a manner peculiar to the profession, his mind wandered afar off to the golden fields; and therein was crowned a Bonanza king, in his mind.  We concluded, judging from his description of ore displaced, that the claims were worth about five cents.  I mention this to illustrate how the mining fever pervades the mind while operating in mines.  Upon my return to camp I had the pleasure of camping alone, and to make it the more pleasant, my horse escaped form camp and caused me to travel six miles before securing him.  So you see it is not all sunshine in the Rocky Mountains.  You would be surprised to see how fortunes are made and squandered in this wonderful mining region.  Many make fortunes in a short time, while others struggle along for years without accumulating anything.  Nothing is more uncertain than mining operations.  I have had men pointed out to me that have made a cool million in two years; and others that have lost twenty thousand or more in the attempt to increase their fortune.  It requires years to become familiar with the country and its prospects.  Ere long I will write you concerning Leadville life and adjoining camps.  Two New England clergymen having visited Leadville, in their description of the place, speak of having been to Hell, but admit they had a good time while there. The mystery is how they could enjoy themselves in such a place.

Sidney Dimock

Obituaries (August 16)

Isabella Cowan

Utica Saturday Globe, February 1902

 

 

Mrs. Isabella Cowan

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At the home of her daughter, Mrs. Euphemie Coon, 35 Fair street, Tuesday afternoon, occurred the death of Mrs. Isabella Cowan, aged 85.  Deceased was the widow of John Cowan and was born in Edinburgh, Scotland.  She came to America in 1850 and for 20 years the family resided in New York before moving to Gilbertsville, Otsego county, where Mr. Cowan died 34 years ago.  Mrs. Cowan afterwards came to Norwich and had since made her home with her daughter.  While living in Scotland she joined the Presbyterian Church and after she became a resident of Norwich she became a member of the Congregational Church in 1873, during the pastorate of Rev. Samuel Scoville.  Mrs. Cowan was the mother of seven children.  She had been in strong and vigorous health until last winter.  She was a woman of beautiful Christian character and her life has left a strong impression upon those who knew her well.  She is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Euphemie Coon, with whom she made her home:  Mrs. Susie Paddleford, of North Fenton, N.Y., and Mrs. Clarence E. Kellogg, of Tacoma, Wash. Her funeral was held from her late home this (Friday) afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. D.W. Dexter officiating.  Interment in Mount Hope [Norwich, NY].

 

Nathan Geer

Northern Christian Advocate, May 1849

Nathan Geer died in Plymouth, Chenango county, N.Y., at the residence of his son, Wm. R. Geer, May 4, 1849, aged 83 years.  He was converted and joined the M.E. Church about 40 years ago, under the labors of Rev. Charles Giles and father White.  His companion also became the subject of saving grace about the same time and with her husband shared the privileges and responsibilities of the Church until about four years ago, when she finished her course with joy, bidding farewell to earth in full hope of immortality.  Father Geer still continued to trust in the God of Jacob, and though he was the subject of great bodily affliction, yet he endured patiently as "seeing him who is invisible."  He served the Church many years in the capacity of class leader and steward.  In short, he was a Methodist of the old stamp.  His last illness was only of five or six days continuance, but he was prepared for his final change.  He expressed the strongest confidence in God.  ---  E.P. Beecher

Henry Champlin

1794 - 1884

Chenango Union, May 15, 1884

Afton, [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mr. Champlin, an old resident of this place, who has been in feeble health for some time, died at the home of his son, Mr. George Champlin, on Friday of last week.  The remains were taken to Harpersville for interment.  His age was 89 years, and was a veteran of the war of 1812.  [Buried Nineveh Presbyterian Cemetery]

David J. Palmer

Chenango Union, April 10, 1884

Last Friday afternoon a terrible accident occurred on Melondy Hill west of this village [Afton Chenango Co., NY], whereby Mr. David J. Palmer, a blind man, well known in this place, was killed.  Mr. Palmer was at work in the woods assisting Stephen Fredenburg saw wood.  The tree on which they were at work had been sawed into logs and on the stump, which was on one edge, the tree having been blown down, remained a piece about eighteen inches in length which they had just sawed off and stepped back. Mr. Fredenburg started to walk around the stump to give Mr. Palmer his cane, when the stump fell, crushing Mr. Palmer beneath it, killing him instantly.  Deceased leaves two grown up sons, and was a brother of Mrs. D.D. Smith of this place.  His funeral was held Sunday and the remains were interred in the Glenwood Cemetery.  His age was fifty-four years--Afton Enterprise.

Abby Pixley

Chenango Union, April 10, 1884

On Friday afternoon, the 28th ult., Abby, a three-year-old son of Asa Pixley, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], was drowned in a creek near his residence.  He had been playing in the yard, when he was suddenly missed, and search was made by the ladies of the house, which was unsuccessful.  Mr. Pixley, who was at work in the sugar bush, was notified, and the child was tracked to the creek, upon the bank of which the hood worn by the little boy was found.  A few feet distant the body of the little boy was discovered in the water and carried to his home by the distressed father.

Eva Porter

Chenango Union, May 22, 1884

Eva, youngest daughter of William D. and Mary Porter, on Friday evening, the 16th inst., entered into rest.  Fragile as a reed, delicate as a rose, trustful, confiding, as a child, she seemed young indeed for her years.  One could scarcely realize that sixteen summers and more in her life had come and gone.  Vivacious, ever cheerful, with cultivated intellect and a mind not void of useful knowledge, she appeared older than indicated by her pallid face and slender form.  Thus were her associations more than ordinarily extended and enlarged.  She was a general favorite, a fitting and agreeable companion for both those older and younger than herself, and by all who knew her was she universally beloved.  Her happy temperament and cheerful disposition could not fail to win a multitude of friends.  The circumstances attending her sickness and death were peculiarly sad.  A doting father, whom she loved with all the ardor of her affectionate nature, at a public institution from mental derangement; an only sister detained from her bedside on account of sickness; her only brother far away at his chosen labors; and next of kin, her father's only sister, prostrated with disease, she was left almost to the last under the sole care of her devoted mother, except such assistance as kind and sympathizing neighbors and friends were anxious and more than willing to bestow.  Always of a delicate organization, nearly a year since it was noticed that Eva did not appear as well as before, dating from a severe attack of lung disease at that time; yet so cheerful and uncomplaining was she that few, even those most intimate, suspected that she was subject to the least physical suffering.  Some six weeks ago, while absent with her mother caring for an invalid member of the family, she became decidedly worse, from some existing cause, and rapidly declined till at length, in spite of all that could be done, life went out as gently as dies away the summer breath. Eva was emphatically the child of religion, and died as she lived, strong in the faith. The funeral was largely attended on Sunday afternoon at the residence of deceased's parents, corner of Henry and Court streets, Rev. A.G. Upton officiated, and the services were most impressive. The floral offerings were exquisite and profuse, and it was a common remark that seldom if ever had they been so tastefully and appropriately arranged. The beautiful white casket in which Eva seemed to rest so comfortably was literally embedded in flowers, and the gloom and darkness of the tomb dispelled by the emblems of the resurrection life.  Friends were in attendance from Coventry, Binghamton, Munnsville and other places. The Sabbath School class, of which Eva was a member attended in a body. The deep sympathy of the whole community is extended to the bereaved family in their sore affliction.  The following expressions of sympathy but voice the sentiments of all who knew Eva:

From the Union School Teachers,

Academy and Union School,

Norwich, N.Y., May 19, 1884

Mr. and Mrs. Porter--Dear Friends--We wish, as the teachers of your daughter Eva, to assure you of our appreciation of her.  She was faithful as a student, and discharged to the best of her ability all her duties, and was conscientious and sincere in all her relations with us.  We commend you to the care of our Father in Heaven, who causeth all things to work together for good to those that love Him, and who alloweth not a sparrow to fall to the ground without his notice.  Yours in sorrow and sympathy--James H. Shults, Mable E. Dart, Maria W. Bishop, Mary E. Lewis

From Her Sabbath School Class Mates

Norwich, N.Y., May 19, 1884

Mr. and Mrs. Porter--We, as Eva's class mates, wish to express our deep sympathy for you in your great loss.  We shall miss her in our school life, for she was a general favorite with both scholars and teachers.  May you take comfort in the thought that her life was one of gentleness and obedience.  She always tried to do what she thought was right and showed by her life her love for the Savior.  With love and sympathy, Matie Reed, F.H. Kinney, Frank Fitch, Committee.

We are desired by Mrs. Porter to extend to her neighbors and friends, and all who were so kind and sympathetic in her sore bereavement, her sincere acknowledgements and heartfelt thanks.  Words, she assures us, cannot reward them for their many kindnesses and substantial deeds.

James Casey

Bainbridge Republican, October 8, 1880

James Casey, quite well known through this section as a stone cutter, died at the residence of Court Robbins, in this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], on Thursday night of last week, aged about 50 years.  Mr. Casey had, seemingly, enjoyed comparatively good health up to within about three weeks of his decease, when he returned from a business trip to Binghamton and Syracuse complaining greatly of rheumatism, and had to be assisted home from the depot.  From that time on he grew rapidly worse, chronic diarrhea setting in, and other troubles, which for a week or so prior to his death rendered him unconscious the most of the time, though at times he would rally and converse quite rationally.  The deceased was born in Ireland, but had resided in this country for several years, and had become thoroughly Americanized.  He came to this section of country about seven years since and commenced work at Grieg's stone quarry in the town of Unadilla, and since then has been engaged in quarry work the most of the time.  Last Spring he leased, for five years, a right to quarry on the farm of Wm. Seeley, in East Guilford, and succeeded in opening up a very excellent quarry of stone, said all who have seen it  to be one of the best in the country.  He immediately began to do a thriving trade in stone, shipping large orders to Utica, Syracuse and other points and he appeared in a fair way to become quite well off in this world's goods.  But success was his misfortune, for, from having led a sober life for a long while, and being a member in good standing of the Good Templar's Order in this village, he began a life of dissipation, and squandered his money lavishly and foolishly, until his dissipation culminated in the disease which terminated fatally.  The deceased is said to have a brother residing at Saugerties, Ulster county, this State, and also a wife and children residing somewhere on the Hudson.  The small procession of scarce a half-dozen, which conveyed the remains to their last resting place, appeared solemn enough as they passed through the streets, and a short prayer by Elder Houghton at the grave constituted all the ceremony of the interment.  Those who had profited most by "Jim's" liberality, forgot him in his distress and death, and showed how true it is, that a man who squanders his money on drink makes friends but to lose them in adversity.  "Jim" was a liberal hearted, kind dispositioned Irishman when sober, and had he left strong drink alone, might have been an honored and wealthy member of society.  This is an excellent temperance lesson for the young.