Obituaries (January 6)

James P. Briggs

Utica Saturday Globe, August 1912

 

 

James P. Briggs

1843 - 1912

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  James P. Briggs, who suffered a fractured skull as the result of falling down a hatchway at the Lackawanna house, August 2, died Sunday afternoon from burns received the previous night when he overturned a lighted lamp.  Since August 7, Mr. Briggs had been cared for at the home of his nephew, Fred M. Woodard, on Rexford street.  He was steadily gaining in strength, but his mind was still affected by the fracture to his skull and it was necessary to watch him constantly.  On one or two previous occasions he had escaped from his room while his attendant was absent for a minute, but had always been discovered before he could do himself harm.  Saturday night, his attendant was overcome with fatigue and fell asleep.  When he awoke at 3:45 he missed his patient and calling the Woodard family all through the house and yard, a slight noise attracted the searchers to the cellar and here Mr. Briggs was found lying on his back and his chest, arms and legs covered with burns. The broken parts of a lamp, and partly burned fragments of the man's shirt, were scattered about, showing that he must have broken the lamp in some manner and set fire to his clothing.  Briggs was carried back to his room and Dr. Wilcox summoned. The burns were dressed and it was thought that the injured man might possibly recover, as he was able to talk a little and gave as a reason for leaving his room that he wished to look "at some machinery in the cellar."  Deceased was 69 years of age and resided on a farm on the South New Berlin road, but he had for several years been engaged in teaming, drawing milk to the Borden's condenser, and was later employed by the Bell Telephone Company.  He is survived by his wife; two sons, Howard and Jason; one daughter, Mildred, and two grandchildren.  He also leaves a brother, Lewis Briggs, of New Lisbon and a sister, Mrs. Frank Smith, of Sherburne. The funeral was held Wednesday, in charge of the Phoebus Lodge, no. 82, F.&A.M. of New Berlin of which the deceased was a member.  Norwich lodge F.&A.M., furnished as escort.  Interment was made in Mt. Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY]

 

Albert W. Strong

Northern Christian Advocate, October 3, 1849

Albert W. Strong, late of East Bloomfield, Ontario Co., N.Y. died at his father's residence if Alexander, Genesee Co., N.Y., Aug. 1, 1849, aged 39 years.  Brother Strong was converted in Jan. 1821, after which he joined the M.E. Church of which he remained a faithful and consistent member until death, and in which, for a number of years, he held the responsible office of Steward, with honor to himself and with profit to the Church.  His Christian career was not of a fitful character, but his course was even, uniform, active and consistent.  His illness, which preyed upon him for about three years, was dyspeptic consumption, but he bore all with much patience and resignation. About five minutes before his departure, his brother asked him how he felt; to which he replied; "My trust is in the lord."  Some of his last words were, "Come Lord Jesus, come."  Thus died the Christian.    Wm. S. Tuttle

 

Grace Pearl (Brower) Cobb

1885 - 1940

Mrs. Grace Pearl Cobb, wife of Arthur Cobb, passed away at her late home, 14 Delaware Square, Thursday morning at 11:40.  The deceased was a life long resident of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] and this vicinity and was 55 years of age. She was held in the highest regard by a large number of friends and her demise will be regretted. She was a member of Calvary Baptist church, and was active in the work of the missionary Society and the Philathea class of the church.  She is survived by her husband, Arthur P. Cobb; three daughters, Mrs. Bessie Rathbun of Oxford, Mrs. Margaret Bowers of South New Berlin and Miss Shirley Cobb of 14 Delaware Square, and a son Chauncey Cobb of this city. She also leaves her father, Hiram Brower, of Norwich and a sister, Mrs. Bessie Latham of Norwich. The body was removed to the Robert J. Fahy Funeral home at 16 North Broad street, where friends may call at any time.  A private prayer service will be held at the Fahy Funeral Home at 11:15 Saturday morning followed by funeral services in the Calvary Baptist church at 11:30 with Rev. R.L. Mathews of the Calvary Baptist church officiating. Burial will be made in the family plot at South Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

 

George Lewis White

born 1872

George Lewis White dropped dead in the kitchen of his home about 7 o'clock Thursday night of a heart attack.  Members of his family found him.  Mr. White had been a resident of White's Pond all his life and in recent years had suffered from a heart condition.  He was born in the town of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] Nov. 25, 1872.  He was a member of the rural fire commissioners of the town of New Berlin and was affiliated also with the Dairymen's League. The deceased was a farmer by occupation.  In 1903 he married Lena Roys of Oxford. She survives with the following children, Mason White of Norwich, Frank White of this city, Arvin White of Ithaca, who is in the army air corps reserve; George of Odessa and Benjamin of Sherburne; Ruth White, Mrs. Arthur Farrell and Sally White of Norwich and Mary White of Binghamton.  He is survived also by a brother, Merton White of Norwich and a sister, Bessie White of Norwich. Two grandchildren, Arthur and Jane Farrell also survive.   Services will be held at the Breese Funeral home at 2 o'clock Sunday afternoon with burial in South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

 

Death Notices

Chenango Telegraph & Chronicle, January 10, 1866

 

HALL:  Nov. 30th, of Typhoid fever and Hemorrhage of the Bowels, T.C. Hall, aged 27 years and 11 months.

 

WELLS:  In Delhi, Ingham C.,  Mich., on Dec. 21st, Gad Wells for many years a resident of this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], aged about 79 years.

 

TREADWAY:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 29th, Miss A.E. Treadway, aged 24 years.

 

CADWELL:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 15th, Winfield S. Cadwell, aged 41 years.

Marriages (January 6)

Marriage Notices

Chenango Telegraph & Chronicle, January 10, 1866

MUNSON - HIGBY:  At the Hotel of Henry Brown, in Afton, by Edgar Garrett, Esq., on new Year's Eve, Mr. Hial Munson, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Jane Higby, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY.]

 

RACE - WOOLARD:  At Binghamton, on the 20th ult., by Rev. Mr. Nadal, W.H. Race, of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], and Miss Lina Woolard, of Washington, D.C.

 

KERCH - ACKLEY:  At East Hamilton [Madison Co., NY] on the 17th ult., by Geo. Balcom, Willard Keech, of New York City, and Miss Francelia E Ackley.

 

LYMAN - UPHAM:  At Sherburne, Jan. 1st, by the Rev. Mr. Hobbs, William A. Lyman, and Miss Almedia Upham, all of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

 

LEWIS - LEWIS:  In Sherburne, Oct. 19, by Rev. James R. Haswell, John M. Lewis, and Mrs. D. Lewis, of Madison [Madison Co., NY].

 

HOWARD - CRANDALL:  In Plymouth, Jan. 3d, by Rev. A.L. York, Hoyt E. Howard, of Greenfield, Mass., and Miss Mira Crandall, of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

 

WILLIAMS - NEWBY:  At the M.E. Parsonage in Afton, on the 23d ult., by Rev. B.H. Brown, Mr. Emory A. Williams, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Sarah F. Newby, of Sanford [Broome Co., NY].

 

AYLESWORTH - STEERE:  By the same, at Wildey's Hotel, in Afton, Dec. 25th, Mr. Ransom Aylesworth, of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY] and Miss Sarah E. Steere, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]

 

DEAN - VINCENT:  By the same, at the M.E. Parsonage, Jan. 3d, Mr. Milton V. Dean, of Columbia Co., and Miss Marietta Vincent, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

 

Chenango Telegraph & Chronicle, June 19, 1867

 

OLNEY - STANBRO:  In Columbus, June 11th, by S.L. Brown, Esq., George W. Olney and Frances Standbro, all of Columbus [Chenango Co., NY].

 

SMITH RHODES:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], June 11th, by Rev. H.W.Lee, George A. Smith, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], and Maggie A. Rhodes, of the former place.

 

TREADWAY - SHEPARDSON:  In Bainbridge June 12th, by Rev. L.B. Yale, Charles B. Treadway and Mary M. Shepardson, all of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]

Marriages (January 5)

Marriage Notices

Chenango Union, May 9, 1895

FARNAM - DOWNE:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], April 27, 1895 by Rev. B.D. Peck, Mr. William Farnam and Miss Etta Downe, all of Norwich.

 

DAVID - HERRICK:  In Afton, May 1, 1895, by Rev. B.B. Carruth, Mr. George D. Davis and Miss Alice M. Herrick, both of Norwich, N.Y. [Chenango Co.]

 

LINDSEY- BARKER:  In Oxford, May 1, 1895, by Rev. C.B. Parsons, Mr. L.V. Lindsey and Miss Lucinda Barker, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]

 

HIBBARD - BROWN:  Near Rockdale [Chenango Co., NY], May 1, 1895, by Rev. W.T. Blair, Mr. Bert Hibbard and Miss Edna Brown.

 

PAUL - GRIDLEY:  In Jasper, N.Y., April 11, 1895, by Rev. Charles McCarthy, Mr. John Paul, of East Troupsburg, N.Y. [Steuben Co.] and Miss Rosina A. Gridley, of Guilford, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY]

 

PRATT - HUYCK:  In Oneonta, April 21, 1895, by Rev. A.E. Wilson, Mr. Eugene Pratt, formerly of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], and Miss Libble Huyck, of Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY]

Obituaries (January 5)

Elizabeth J. Thornton

Utica Saturday Globe, August 1912

 

Elizabeth J. Thornton

1862 - 1912

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At the home of her daughter, Mrs. Edward C. Staats, on Wait street, early Friday morning, Mrs. Elizabeth J. Thornton passed away at the age of 50 years.  Deceased had been a sufferer from paralysis since December and although it was realized that her condition was serious, her death, which occurred suddenly, was a shock to her relatives and friends.  Mrs. Thornton was born in the town of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY] and resided there until a few months ago, when she came to Norwich to make her home with her daughter.  She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. George Burke, of McDonough, and Mrs. E.C. Staats, of Norwich; two sons, George and Floyd Thornton, of North Norwich; two sisters, Mrs. Elmer Johnson, of South Oxford, and Mrs. Henry Burdick, of McDonough and three brothers, Leon Graves, of South Plymouth; Clarence and George Graves, of Tunnel, N.Y.  The funeral services, which were held Monday afternoon, were attended by a large delegation of Fern Leaf Camp, Royal Neighbors and the Ladies Loyal Order of Moose.

Matilda Robinson

Northern Christian Advocate, October 3, 1849

Mrs. Matilda Robinson rests from her labors.  She died of dysentery, on the 15th inst., aged forty-five years.  Seldom are we called upon to record the departure of a more amiable person, or a more devoted Christian.  Converted in early life, and connecting herself with the people of God, she maintained to the last, an unblemished Christian character.  The M.E. Church in this place has lost a most exemplary and worthy member, while the Church triumphant is enriched with a jewel of rare excellence.  Her stricken family, whom she ardently loved and faithfully served, are left desolate and sad.  Yet they are comforted in their sorrow by the reflection that she is

"Asleep in Jesus, blessed sleep

From which none ever wakes to weep."

N.S.DeWitt,  Lanesboro, Sept. 19, 1849

Clifford Sherwood Davis

1897 - 1945

Clifford Sherwood Davis passed away at his home in Mt. Upton, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY] on Thursday, May 17, 1945, following an illness of one year, during which time he was a great sufferer.  Mr Davis was the son of Nelson Davis and Alida (Sherwood) Davis and was born in Gilbertsville [Otsego Co., NY] Dec. 31, 1897.  On June 28, 1933 he was united in marriage with Miss Mabel Morrell of South New Berlin.  He was a resident of Mt. Upton for more than twenty years and had many friends who regret to learn of his death.  he acted as Fire Chief of Mt. Upton until ill health compelled him to resign.  Survivors are s wife, one brother, Warren, of New York City, a sister Mrs. Ona Harrington of New Berlin and his aunt, Mrs. Lettie Arnold of Mt. Upton.  The funeral services were held at the Methodist Chruch on Saturday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock with the Rev. David S. Wolfe, pastor of the church, officiating. Burial was at Mt. Upton.  The large attendance of friends and the many beautiful floral pieces expressed the high regard in which he was held.

 

Frank Arnold

1872 - 1944

Frank Arnold, 72, retired O.&W. conductor of 14 Sheldon street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], died at the wheel of his automobile on Polkville hill just before noon Thursday due to a heart attack, after he had become exhausted when his car became stuck in the highway.  Mrs. Arnold was with her husband when he slumped over the steering wheel as the car started to descend the hill.  James Myers was trying to drive up the hill and the two machines collided almost headon causing some damage to both.  Due to the slippery condition of the road the Arnold machine became stalled as it was ascending the hill this side of the Reinhold Anthony home.  Mr. Arnold shoveled a quantity of ashes on the roadbed and with that he started his car so that he was able to turn around with the intention of returning to Norwich for wheel chains. The car had only moved a few feet on its downward climb when Mr. Arnold suddenly was stricken. As he slumped forward over the steering wheel his foot came down on the accelerator and the car began to move forward.  Mr.  Myers also had experienced difficulty in getting up the hill with the result that both cars collided but with no serious damage.  Sheriff Lelan M. Brookins was called to the scene and later Undersheriff Frank J. Machio arrived with Dr. J.C. Lee, who acted in place of Dr. L.T. Kinney coroner, who was out of the city.  Meanwhile Henry Kimball of the William Breese Company, Norwich funeral directors, was notified, and as Coroner Kinnery was not available, Dr E.F. Gibson, health officer, gave permission to remove the body to the Breese Funeral Home.  Mr. Arnold was born June 9. 1872, and had been an employee of the O.&W. railroad for many years up to the time of his retirement.  He became a trainman in October, 1891, and was promoted to conductor in August, 1907.  He retired Oct. 31, 1941.  Mr. Arnold is surviv3ed by his wife.

 

Death Notices

Chenango Union, May 9, 1895

 

CAHOON:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 4, 1895, Mr. Alonzo S. Cahoon, aged 66 years.

SECOR:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 5, 1895, Mrs. Althea Secor, widow of the late Col. J.D. Secor, of Scranton, Pa., aged 86 years.

BENEDICT:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 5, 1895, Mr. John Benedict, aged 81 years.

POST:  At Woods' Corners [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 7, 1895, infant daughter of Hubert and Martha M. Post.

PARSONS:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., nY], May 1, 1895, Nellie C [Parsons]., daughter of Homer B. Parsons, aged 16 years.

Train Derailment as per NY Times - 1966

Train Jumps Rails Near Binghamton, Kills Two in Home

New York Times, January 9, 1966

Bainbridge, N.Y.:  Mrs. Alice Johnson sat and smoked cigarettes, while a freight train box car encased her in her auto.  Wreckage surrounded her and a man and wife lay dead in their crushed and burning home 150 feet away.

 

 This was the scene last night after more than half of a 64-car Delaware & Hudson freight train  jumped the tracks in the center of this village of 1,700, northeast of Binghamton.  It wrecked two buildings, including the home of Anthony Delello, 73 years old, and his wife, Rose, 68. 

 

Mr. Delello, a former D.&H. guard at the crossing where the wreck occurred, and his wife died in their flaming home, apparently while in the living room.

 

Mrs. Johnson, 28, of Bainbridge, who had been waiting in her auto at the crossing, suffered bruises when a box car smashed the roof of her auto.  She was trapped more than an hour.

 

Investigators and crewmen, sought today in snow and cold to learn the cause of the derailment and clear the tracks.  The wreckage included the cargo of propane, naphtha, furniture, sand, canned foods, bottles, lime, bricks, wood pulp and paper.

 

The tragedy at the Delello home might have been worse.  Two of their nine children live at home, but were out at the time.

 

The cars also ripped away part of the Town Hall, housing the Police and Fire Departments.  Firemen saved their trucks.

 

Officials said the train apparently was traveling about 60 miles an hour--the legal maximum for trains through here.

 

A silent witness to the fiery wreck was the Town Hall clock.  It stopped at 6:35 P.M.

__________________________________________________

Everything Combed for Cause of Wreck

Binghamton Press, February 25, 1966

 In the yards at Colonie, the Delaware & Hudson Railroad is seeking to deduce cause of the disastrous derailment at nearby Bainbridge.  Under scrutiny are an estimated 130 feet of track, reconstructed just as they were on that bitterly cold Jan. 7 night in the Chenango County Community.

Scope of the investigation within sight of the State Capitol was revealed yesterday by Peter Naples of Oneonta, assistant trainmaster of the D&H.  "We picked up the track at the point of derailment and reconstructed it in Colonie in an attempt to pinpoint what happened," he declared.  Included in the trackage, he said, is a switch, which led to a siding at Eldred's Feed mill in Bainbridge.  "We also picked up several pieces of equipment, anything that looked suspicious and could help us in finding the cause," Mr. Naples declared.

The investigation, unique in that it is under way more than 100 miles east of the point of derailment, is being conducted by D&H department heads.  "We haven't come up with the cause as yet, but we're trying," Mr Naples said.  "We're going over everything with a fine tooth comb."  He said he was confident the cause ultimately would be determined, at which time the D&H undoubtedly will make its findings public.

Killed when burning and careening railroad cars crashed into their house and set it aflame were Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Delello, Sr., of 8 West Main Street, Bainbridge.  In all 39 [sic] cars of the northbound train were derailed, extensively damaging the Bainbridge Firehouse, the police station, other buildings and several cars parked beside the right-of-way.  Falling freight cars also flattened an auto, operated by Mrs. Leroy (Alice) Johnson, 28, which was waiting at the village crossing for the train to pass.  Mrs. Johnson was pinned to the steering wheel for more than an hour before she could be removed by firemen and volunteers.

The D&H Trainmaster Gilbert Gillette of Scranton, Mr. Naples and Hubert Loucks of Oneonta RD, division general foreman, inspected the wreckage shortly after the derailment.  Mr Gillette, who formerly was stationed in Oneonta, was unable to give an estimate of the loss, but emphasized that is would prove to be "an expensive wreck."  "This is probably the biggest wreck the D&H has ever had in this area," he declared.  Calling it "a humdinger," the trainmaster compared the Bainbridge derailment with the D&H wreck in the spring of 1963 at Starrucca, Pa.

Crewmen of the ill-fated train included George Vincent of Oneonta, engineer; George Laubmeier of Morris, fireman; Ben Hunt of Oneonta, head trainman; and Seymour Davis of Oneonta, swingman.

Last week the D&H announced contributions totaling $1,500 to Bainbridge fire and police agencies in appreciation of their assistance during the tragedy.

__________________________________________________

Bainbridge Still Rebuilding

Binghamton Press, July 20, 1966

The Chenango County community of Bainbridge is continuing its restoration from an early January train derailment that caused several thousand dollars worth of damage, destroyed buildings and took two lives.

Repairs on the Bainbridge Police Department building have begun.  One room of the building still remains boarded up, the last mute evidence of a night most village residents will not forget.

The repairs, being done by Frank L. Lewis & Sons, will include the replacement of a outside wall of a room that was formerly used as a communications and record room.  At this time the door to the room remains closed. The room is used only for storage.  Inside, cracked and chipped bricks and some pieces of ragged plaster remain from the fateful Friday evening.

Police Chief William Payne, whose offices are now located along with the communications and record center just to the east of the heavily damaged room, looked back on the fateful evening and said, "It was the first time I can remember that no one was in that room."  The room was vacant when one of the derailed box cars came smashing into it.

Village workmen were still patching with asphalt, sections of what were once curbing around the old depot that is now used as a police station.  Workmen will make other renovations to the building, located on the north side of the tracks, while they are at it.  These will include the removing of several large doors used when the railroad occupied the building. The space will be filled in with cinder blocks.

The remains of the two-story frame house at 8 West Main Street have long since been removed.  It was this home that took the brunt of the derailment. Anthony Delello, 73, and his wife, Rose, 68, died in the crash and fire than ensued.

The heavily damaged fire station was razed earlier this month and last week the Bainbridge fire commissioners let bids for the construction of the new fire station.  The station, to be located on the site of the old two-story building will be completed within 120 days.  Architects reported that the total construction cost, $124,187, was somewhat less than their original estimates. Contracts were let to Frank Lewis & Sons, general contracting, $88,900, John J. Henehan Co., heating and ventilating; $14,000, John J. Henehan Co., Plumbing, $9,870, and Miske Electric inc., electrical, $10,477.

Bainbridge's forced urban renewal moves slowly, but surely, while residents still cast fleeting glances as Delaware & Hudson Railroad trains continue to move through the center of the village.  Chief Payne, looking out of his office at the then empty but still nearby tracks, said, "The people seem to think the trains are a lot longer these days, but they aren't.  They just move at about half the speed they did before the accident." 


 

 

 

Obituaries (January 4)

Foster P. Sayles

Utica Saturday Globe, August 1912

 

 

Foster P. Sayles

1835 - 1912

At his home in East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], August 18, occurred the death of Foster P. Sayles, one of the best known residents of that section, aged 77.  Deceased was born June 1, 1835, near this village, and was a son of William and Anna Sayles.  He resided here [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] until about 30 years ago, when he took up his residence in East Pharsalia.  Mr. Sayles served with credit during the civil war, as a member of Company H, Seventeenth Regiment, New York Volunteers, and was a member of Smith Post, G.A.R.  During late years he was known as an expert hunter and frequently indulged in the sport of hunting and fishing.  He was a man well liked by all who knew him.  His wife, who was Mary Monroe, daughter of Samuel Monroe, survives him.  He also leaves a number of nephews and nieces. The funeral was held from his late home, Wednesday, Rev. William E. Webster officiating.  Burial was made at Heady's Corners.

 

Dorcas Kingsley

Northern Christian Advocate, October 3, 1849

Miss Dorcas Kingsley died from the effects of a cancer, in Otisco [Onondaga Co., NY], Sept. 5, aged forty-one years.  Though her disease had been of some years' standing, yet she was confined to her bed only a few weeks; during which time her suffering was extreme.  She bore her sufferings with exemplary patience, always trusting in the strength of the Savior for support.  Many years since she became a member of the M.E. Church, and for the last few years of her earthly pilgrimage, her life was a practical proof of the doctrine of holiness.  Her death was peaceful and triumphant.   Z.D. Paddock, Cardiff, Sept. 24, 1849.

 

Caroline A. Scott

Afton Enterprise, December 10, 1914

Mrs. Caroline A. Scott, widow of the late Benedict Scott, died at her home on the East side of the river, a short distance North of Afton, on Tuesday evening, December 1, 1914 at seven o'clock, after a lingering and severe illness, at the age of seventy-five years.  Mrs. Scott was a faithful and devout Christian, a member of the Presbyterian church, and was fully prepared when the call came to her to enter into rest.  Her maiden name was Rusli, she and her husband were both born in Switzerland coming to America when she was 20 years of age.  They lived near Deposit, N.Y., until the death of Mr. Scott which occurred fourteen years ago, soon after which she came to Afton, where she and her devoted daughter, Miss Lucy have since resided together, their home recently being in the part of the house of her son, Frank.  Mrs. Scott has the remarkable record as a mother, of having borne and reared to a useful manhood and womanhood, nine children, three sons and six daughters, all of whom are married except one, and all of whom survive her and all of whom were present at her bedside when she passed away and present at her funeral.  There are also a number of grandchildren.  The names of her children are as follows:  Frank, Carl and Benedict Scott, Mrs. Alice Curtis, Mrs. Leua McCarter, Mrs. Nettie Gifford, Mrs. Flora Daniels, Mrs. Rose Macauley, and miss Lucy M. Scott.  The funeral service was held at the home on Friday afternoon, December 4th, and was conducted by her pastor, Dr. John J. Francis of the Afton Presbyterian church, assisted by Rev. C.O. Fuller pastor of the Baptist church, after which she was tenderly laid beside her husband in Glenwood cemetery [Afton, Chenango Co., NY].

 

Adaliza Scott

Bainbridge Republican, November 27, 1875

Died on Saturday, Nov. 20th, 1875, Adaliza, wife of Treat M. Scott.  Mrs. Scott was born Sept. 6th, 1827, in the town of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] and here she died.  In 1849 she was married and has been a faithful wife and fond mother. She has long been an invalid, denied the privileges of mingling in society.  On this account she passed a retired life, but a patient one.  Home was her province and here her good qualities were known.  In early life she professed her faith in the Savior of sinners, uniting with the Presbyterian Church of this place, and we trust, with her faith resting in that Savior she departed from this world of sin and of sorrow. The silver cord is loosed, the golden band is broken, and her spirit has gone to God who gave it. We trust to hear him say to her, "Enter thou into thy rest."

 

Prudence Ruth Scott

Bainbridge Republican, October 21, 1909

Monday morning at 6 o'clock, occurred the death of Prudence Ruth Scott, aged 15 years, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hubert Scott of Newton Hollow [Chenango Co., NY].  Her death was due to typhoid fever, after an illness of nearly three weeks.  There was a short private service held Wednesday, at 1 o'clock at the house, after which service was held at the North Afton Methodist church, Rev. I.J. Smith of Afton officiating.  Burial was in the North Afton cemetery.

 

Earl F. Scott

Afton Enterprise, December 13, 1900

Earl F. Scott, infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Scott, died quite suddenly on Tuesday of last week of infantile paralysis. The eleven weeks of the little one's life were filled with suffering, yet there seemed latterly every promise of better health and growth. The funeral was held on Friday at 11 o'clock, conducted by Rev. H.C. Merrill.

 

Post Listing December 28, 2015 - January 3, 2016

Post listings for the week of December 28, 2015 to January 3, 2016.

Marriages

Posted December 29, 2015

Marriage Notices 1878

     Frank J. Barre - Bertha B. Greene

     Hiram H. Tucker - Jennie E.Crumb

     John Norton - Estelle Gray

     Cornelius Whitbeck - Mrs. David L. Haight

     Orello E. Frink - Etta Peckham

     Henry Howes - M. Delphine Baker

     George Merritt - Lovina Nhare

     Harry Nichols - Mary Burnap

     F.A. Whiting - Dora G. Butler

     Charles Utter - Anna Parsons

     Lewis H. Tyrell, Jr. - Mildred E. Jones

Posted December 31, 2015
Marriage Notices
     William H. Pattengill - Nellie Candee (1874)
     Charles Dickinson - Lizzie Edler (1874)
     William A. Snyder - Maria L. Holcomb (1874)
     Homer VanCott - Anna Tyler (1874)
     Charles F Nolton - Mary Pattengill (1874)
     Frederick Hill Stambro - Jennie E. Gregory (1890)
     James  N. Roys - Edith W Potter (1890)
    Henry J. merritt - Cora Gifford (1890)
     Wallace G. Swan - Florence A. Van Wagner (1890)
     Walter S Whipple - Cora B Wilson (1890)

Posted January 3, 2016
Marriage Notices - 1867
     Lewis D. Blackman - Lucy Rowland
     S.T. Church - A Blanchard
     DeWitt Case - Irene Foote
     Philander Parker - Phebe Bennett
     Leonard D Philips - Mary I. Combs
     B.F. Sheldon - Hattie A Faucett
     Albert W. Padgett - Hattie R. Bennett
     Norman C. Booth - Lovisa Bush
     Calvin Day - E.E. Gilbert
     Orris Lothridge - Ann Eliza Parsons
     H.C. Lewis - Emma C. Norton


 

Obituaries

Posted December 28, 2015

E. Birney Crandall (Norwich, 1912)

Helen Lincklaen (Cazenovia, 1847)

Nathaniel R. Hyer (Guilford, 1847)

Abijah Cornwell, Sr. (Guilford, 1847)

Death Notices - 1847

     Cornelius William Hunt (Potsdam)

     George Porter Nelson (Kingston)

Posted December 29, 2015
Henry P. Macksey (Norwich, Newark, NJ, 1912)
Henry Welch (Watertown, 1847)
Emeline Minerva Lobdell (Victor, 1847)
Helen M. (Parsons) Sweet (Guilford, Afton, 1919)
Death Notices - 1892
     Mabel G. Stead (Guilford)
     Mrs. Nelson Parsons (Bainbridge)
     Chauncey Francisco (Guilford)

Posted December 30, 2015
David H. Knapp (Norwich, Asbury Park, NJ, 1912)
Fanny Huckins (Watertown, 1847)
Henry Clayton Watson (Franklinville, 1847)
Eleanor Van Etten (Cayuta, 1847)
Abraham Barnes (Cayuta, 1847)
Horace Holcomb (Coventryville, 1904)
Death Notices - 1852
     William A. Robinson (Norwich)
     Ellen MIner (Preston)
     Lois Bixby (Bainbridge)
     Leroy E. Holcomb (Geneva, Norwich)
     Mr. R.S. King (Sherburne)
     Euncie E. Warriner (Preston)

Posted December 31, 2015
Charles H. Stuard (Norwich, Horseheads, 1912)
William Bown (Elkland, PA, 1849)
Catharine Bell Diefendorf (FreyBush, 1849)
Minnie May (Allen) Baldwin (Hubbardsville, Utica, 1946
Death Notices - 1886
     Kathleen Purdy Hall
     Sally Davis (Norwich)
     Dyer D. Bullock (North Norwich, Bainbridge)
     Mrs. Alfred Willcox (Earlville)
     Lorenzo D. Sutton (Lincklaen)
     Eunice Grover (Afton)
     Curtis C. Cannon (Bainbridge)
     Gilbert Bowers (Oxford)
     Grover Ives (Guilford)
     David Nelson (Smithville)
     Oliver P. Rose (Smithville)
     Asahel Peck (Greene)
     William D. Rice (Greene)
     Alvin Gray (Barker, Greene)
     Jennie Brown (St. Louis MO, North Pharsalia)

Posted January 1, 2016
Nancy (Avery) Ferry (Norwich, Oil City, PA, 1912)
Nathan Geer (Plymouth, 1849)
Francis Marion Hammond (Evans 1849)
Joseph James (Vienna 1849)
Ada A (Bisbe) Albright (Eaton 1946

Posted January 2, 2016
David Wicks (Norwich, 1912)
Eliza Kerr (Ira, 1849)
Daniel D. Van Allen (Chicago, IL, 1849)
Sally Wright (Evans, 1849)
Maye Turner Doolittle (Norwich, Albion, 1901)
Harvey Woods (Norwich, Guilford, 1901)
Alfred Woods (Norwich, 1932)

Posted January 3, 2016
Berthier  J. Mathewson (Norwich, 1912)
Grace M. (Baldwin) Bliven (Preston, 1912)
Rev. James Barnard (Rome, Lima, 1849)
Jane A. Hamlin (Bainbridge, 1932)
John Jacobson (Bainbridge, 1932)
 



 

Miscellaneous

Posted December 30, 2015

Bainbridge High School Class of 1956, Senior Portraits - Part 3

Posted December 31, 2015
Wayne Benedict becomes Norwich High School Principle, 1912

Posted January 1, 2016
Letter from England, 1944
Norwich NY Seventy Years Ago, reminiscences of George W. Denslow - 1906

Posted January 2, 2016
Centennial Observed by Congrgational Church at Guilford, NY - 1907

Posted January 3, 2016
Train Runs Wild in Bainbridge, NY, January 1966


Bainbridge NY Train Wreck - January 1966

Train Runs Wild in Bainbridge

The Sidney Record & Bainbridge News, January 12, 1966

 

 

Overhead view of Train Derailment, Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY

 

Cars on top of each other created a horrible mess at the West Main Street crossing.  The photograph was taken looking toward Railroad Avenue  (R-N photo)

Delello  home at 8 West Main Street, Bainbridge, was shattered by the railroad cars which smashed through the house and the home soon caught fire.  Firemen (center) are attempting to contain the blaze.  The fire station, which was once the Village Hall, is on the right  (R-N photo)

Mrs. Alice Johnson was practically unable to move when she was pinned in this automobile by the freight car shown on top of her vehicle.  Dexheimers of Guilford, a firm that specialized in moving houses, was called to the scene and they raised the freight car so that the automobile could be freed.  Workers of the Bainbridge emergency Squad are shown on the right.  Mrs. Johnson was pinned in the car for 2 hours and 5 minutes, but miraculously she suffered only minor injuries.  (R-N Photo)

 

Flammable Cargo was contained in many of the railroad freight cars, also many of the cars were constructed of wood and were themselves flammable.  A car containing newsprint created a special hazard when winds carried the sparks over the roofs of many homes.

 

Extracts from an article written shortly following the derailment

(Sidney Record & Bainbridge News, January 12, 1966)

 

Bainbridge:  Tragedy struck in the Village of Bainbridge on Friday evening at 6:35 when a northbound D&H freight train jumped the tracks in the heart of Bainbridge.  A total of 42 cars were derailed from the 64-car freight train.

 

The freight cars smashed through the home of Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Delello, Sr., at 8 West Main Street and the couple was killed instantly....The Delello home was completely smashed apart. The Emergency Squad and others arrived on the scene almost immediately. Within a very few minutes a serious fire was raging both in the Delello home and in the wreckage of the train.

 

Mrs. Alice Johnson was pinned in her car--she had been waiting for the train to clear the crossing and when the derailment occurred one of the freight cars landed on top of her automobile.  At first it appeared that she was almost certainly crushed to death in the car.  Dexheimer's house moving crew was summoned and when they arrived they were able to jack up the freight car so the automobile could be moved and Mrs. Johnson could be released.....

 

The freight cars, evidently with one car riding on top of another, crashed through the Bainbridge Fire Station and inflicted severe damage on the part of the building used for storage of fire department vehicles....

 

The worst of the fire was in the Delello house and the wrecked freight cars in that area behind the fire house. Beams and debris were moved to enable the firemen to back the fire trucks out of the station.  Their fire fighting task was made especially difficult because water was in short supply--the electricity was out at the pump stations for the first 35 minutes of the fire and the only water pressure available was from the reservoirs.  In addition the water standpipe in the fire station had been knocked out by the freight cars.

 

Firemen immediately concentrated their efforts on the dangerous task of keeping two LP gas tanks cool.  Each of those large tanks contained 33,000 gallons of liquefied propane gas and the danger of explosion was a constant possibility.  The firemen directed their water onto these tanks in an effort to keep them from exploding....Thomas F. Curry, supervisor of the U.S. Bureau of Mines office in Albany, was summoned to help in dealing with possible explosion threats. He stated that through proper handling of the emergency the danger of explosion had been held to a minimum. An explosion of these LP gas tanks could have damaged an area of one-half mile radius.

 

A tank car containing 20,000 gallons of naphtha leaked and fed the fire.  Some of this naphtha was washed away by the water and found its way into the basements of Jerry's Inn and Demeree's Chevrolet Sales.  The United States Bureau of Mines furnished special meters which were used to measure to threat of explosion from naphtha fumes in these buildings....

 

The Bainbridge firemen battled the fire all Friday night and all day Saturday until 7:00 p.m. when they pulled their last hose line.  A standby detail was maintained for a longer time.  Many of the firemen fought the fire for 18 hours straight without rest....

 

F.A. (Mike) Demeree said he was in the automotive showroom when he herd the crash.  "I dashed into the street and when I saw the train wreck it looked like we might have lost our fire department.  I telephoned the Sidney Fire Department immediately."  Mrs. Reno Smith called the Sidney Fire Department and the Afton Fire Department.  She also telephoned individual firemen (The Bainbridge siren was destroyed).  Oneonta and Norwich helped by supplying additional fire fighting foam and other supplies and some of their men came to Bainbridge to help fight the blaze.

 

Firemen courageously battled the flames that lapped the sides of the LP gas tankers.  These 30,000 gallon tankers could have had the explosive force of small bombs. The Bainbridge firemen knew the risks they were taking by standing in close to those tanks to get their water where it could cool the tanks and reduce the danger of explosion.  The knowledge that these firemen had of how to deal with the LP explosion hazard, and their courage in fighting this dangerous fire, may have saved the village of Bainbridge from a true disaster.....

 



 



Marriages (January 3)

Marriage Notices

Chenango Telegraph, February 27, 1867

BLACKMAN - ROWLAND:  In Sherburne, Feb. 18th, by Rev. J.L. Burrows, Lewis D. Blackman, of Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], and Lucy Rowland, of Sherburne  [Chenango Co., NY]

CHURCH - BLANCHARD:  In Sherburne, Feb. 18th, by Rev. Mr. Wadsworth, S.T. Church and Miss A. Blanchard, all of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

CASE - FOOTE:  In Sherburne, Feb. 20th, by Rev. J. L. Burrows, DeWitt Case of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], and Irene Foote, of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

PARKER - BENNETT:  In Sherburne, Feb. 21st, by Rev. W.R. Cochrane, Philander Parker, Esq., of Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], and Phebe Bennett, of Plymouth [Chenango Co.,  NY].

PHILIPS - COMBS:  In Plymouth, Feb. 17th, by Rev. W.R. Cochrane, Leonard D. Philips and Mary I. Combs, all of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

SHELDON - FAUCETT:  In Mt. Upton, Feb. 19th, by Rev. S. Moore, B.F. Sheldon, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], and Hattie A. Faucett, formerly of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY].

PADGETT - BENNETT:  In Guilford, Feb. 6th, by Rev. W. Burnside, Albert W. Padgett, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] and Hattie R. Bennett, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

BOOTH - BUSH:  In Guilford, Feb. 20th, by Rev. W. Burnside, Norman C. Booth, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], and Lovisa Bush, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]

DAY - GILBERT:  In Guilford, Feb. 20th, by Rev. N. Ripley, Calvin Day, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss E.E. Gilbert of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

LOTHRIDGE - PARSONS:  In Guilford, Feb. 20th, by Rev. J.L. Jones, Orris Lothridge, of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co., NY] and Ann Eliza Parsons, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

LEWIS - NORTON:  In Preston Feb. 6th, by Rev. L. E. Spafford, H.C.Lewis, of German [Chenango Co., NY] and Emma C. Norton, of Preston [Chenango Co., NY]

JONES - MURRAY:  In Lincklaen, Feb. 21st, by Rev. E.W>Allen, Thomas W. Jones and Elizabeth Murray, both of Lincklaen [Chenango Co., NY]

Obituaries (January 3)

Berthier J. Mathewson

Utica Saturday Globe, August 1912

 

Berthier J. Mathewson

1833-1912

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Death came suddenly to Berthier J. Mathewson, a well known resident of this village, Wednesday afternoon.  He was working about the garden at his home, corner of Elm and Piano streets, when he was stricken with heart failure and died in a few minutes.  His age was 79.  Mr. Mathewson was a son of Waterman and Freelove Jackson Mathewson and was born March 2, 1833, at Chenango Lake.  His father came to this section from Rhode Island and at one time owned much of the land around Chenango Lake which was formerly known as Mathewson's pond.  In his early life the deceased was for a time employed in the piano factory of Lattin & Rider, then a thriving industry here.  Later he engaged in farming in the town of Pharsalia, where he resided until about 17 years ago, when he retired and had since lived in this village.  Mr. Mathewson was twice married.  His first wife, Annette Holden, of Pharsalia, died in 1865 and April 13, 1873 he married Mrs. Jerusha Wells, of Pharsalia, who survives.  He also leaves one son, Holden B. Mathewson, of South Otselic, and a sister, Mrs. Nancy Stearns, of Iowa Falls, Iowa.  [Glen Buell Collection, Guernsey Memorial Library, Norwich, NY]

 

Grace M. Bliven

Utica Saturday Globe, August 1912

 

 

Grace M. Bliven

1874 - 1912

 

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  After an illness of several months, Grace M., wife of Owen R. Bliven, passed away August 19, at her home in Preston [Chenango Co., NY], in her 38th year.  She was born in the town of Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], November 29, 1874, and was a daughter of Willis and Frances Baldwin.  Her father died when she was two years of age and soon after her mother took up her residence in Preston, where they have since resided.  April 4, 1894, she was united in marriage with Owen R. Bliven, who survives.  She also leaves six sons, Ivan, Glenn, Earl, Lawrence, Paul and Ward, the last named and youngest being but 4 years of age.  She is also survived by her mother and step-father, Mr. and Mrs. W.H. Packer, and one sister, Mrs. William Evans, all fo Preston.  Mrs. Bliven was a woman always ready to lend a helping hand in times of need and her cheerful smile and helpful presence will be missed by a large number of friends and neighbors. The funeral was held from her late home Thursday. Rev. L.L. Vaught, of Orville, Pa., a former pastor, officiated, and burial was made in the Lewis Cemetery at Preston.  [Glen Buell Collection, Guernsey Memorial Library, Norwich, NY]

Rev. James Barnard

Northern Christian Advocate, October 3, 1849

Rev. James Barnard, a local preacher in the M.E. Church, died at the residence of his brother, Rev. Mr. Barnard, Presbyterian clergyman of Lima, N.Y. [Livingston Co.], Aug. 18, in the 52d year of his age.  He was born at Rome, N.Y. [Oneida Co.], and in that place and its vicinity spent the most of his days in the milling vocation.  It was in the morning of life that he gave himself to God and his Church, and his numerous acquaintance will rejoice to know that the Savior who guided his footsteps in youth, and formed the strength of his manhood, was his gracious support in the trial of death.  In the piety of Br. B., was exhibited much of deep sincerity, humility and brotherly kindness.  His love for souls was great, prompting  him to faithfulness as a local preacher; and it is believed that many, in the day of our Lord Jesus, will point to him as a special instrument in their salvation.  O! how blessed the thought, that our departed friends have not only died in the Lord, but have also been messengers of mercy to others.  The last eighteen months of our brother's life were spent in this section of the work, where he endeared himself to all who knew him. The disease with which he was stricken down was the cholera.  He was seized by it while at work in the city of Rochester. But with painful exertions he succeeded in reaching Lima, just in time to enjoy, in death, the benediction of his amiable brother, and the succor of his own pious companion.  His last hours were, of course, a scene of fearful conflict.  But he patiently endured his master's will, and with full confidence in Christ, bid adieu to the scenes of earth.  "Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his."    J. Copeland, Lima, Sept. 24, 1849

Jane A. Hamlin

Bainbridge Republican, January 7, 1932

Jane A. Hamlin was born September 19, 1873, in Sanford, N.Y. [Broome Co.].  She was a daughter of Adrial E. and Nancy Fuller Hamlin.  For the past twenty years she has lived in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], during which time she has made many friends.  She died Saturday afternoon, January 2, at the home of her nephew, Morell Colwell, where she was being cared for, having been in poor health for several months. The funeral was held at 2 o'clock Tuesday afternoon from the Colwell funeral chapel, Rev. Clarence Carman, pastor of the First Methodist Episcopal church officiating.   assisted by Rev. G.H. Orvis, pastor of the Presbyterian church.  Miss Hamlin has no living relatives nearer than nephews. The body was placed in the vault at Greenlawn cemetery [Bainbridge, nY].

John Jacobson

Bainbridge Republican, January 7, 1932

John Jacobson, a respected resident of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], died Wednesday, December 30, 1931, at Wyckoff Hospital, Brooklyn, where he had been operated upon for gall bladder trouble.  Mr. Jacobson was born in Brooklyn, March 11, 1878.  He came with his parents to Bainbridge when five years of age, and with the exception of several months in service in the Spanish-American War Camp, the remainder of his life was spent here.  He was a member of the Susquehanna Lodge of Masons, F.&A.M., No 167, and the Sidney Canton; the Bainbridge lodge of Odd Fellows, and the Wells Post of Spanish-American War Veterans.  He is survived by two sisters and three brothers:  Mrs. Anna Ireland of Guilford, Mrs. Emma Parsons of Bainbridge, August Jacobson of Brooklyn, Edward Jacobson of Sidney and Clifford Jacobson of Bainbridge. The funeral was held from Cowell's funeral chapel at 2 o'clock Saturday afternoon, January 2, Rev. G.H. Orvis, officiating. The committal service in Greenlawn cemetery [Bainbridge, NY] was conducted yb the Odd Fellows. A delegation from Sidney was also in attendance.

Death Notices

Chenango Telegraph, February 27, 1867

WILLEY:  In Sanford, Delaware Co., Feb. 9th, Mrs. Mary J., wife of Leforrest Willey, aged 22 years.

SEELEY:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 13th, Eddie [Seeley], youngest son of T.B.Seeley, aged 5 years and 6 months.

SEELEY:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 14th, Charlie [Seeley], only son of T.B.Seeley, aged 9 years and 3 months.

BUNCE:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 27th, Elsie M. [Bunce]., infant daughter of Justice and Jane Bunce, aged 3 months and 3 days.

ROBBINS:  In north Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], February 11th, Hannah M. [Robbins], wife of Henry T. Robbins, aged 32 years.

TOWER:  In Oxford [Chenango Co.,  NY], Feb. 16th, Fidelia [Tower], wife of Dea. Obediah Tower, aged 60 years.

SAYLES:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 14th, Roger W. Sayles, aged 55 years.

DOW:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 7th, Susan D. [Dow], wife of Cyrus M. Dow, aged 57 years.

 

Guilford Congregational Church Centennial - 1907

Centennial Observed by Congregational Church

Guilford, Chenango County, New York

Norwich Sun, October 2, 1907

The centennial of the organization of the society of the First Congregational church of Guilford Center held at the church Friday, Sept. 27, was largely attended not only by members and friends of the church in this vicinity, but many of the surrounding towns, Norwich, Oxford, Unadilla, Sidney and Bainbridge being represented. The Rev. R.M. Pascoe of the M.E. church of Guilford conducted the devotional exercises in the morning and was followed by a very able and interesting address, "The Imperishable Church," by the Rev. T.W. Harris of the Congregational church, Oxford.  "A Comparison between the life of a Church and the life of a Man," was presented by Rev. S. McA. Keeler, a former pastor of the church, of Danbury, Conn.  At the noon hour a bountiful feast was provided for the inner man to all. The afternoon session was opened with devotional exercises led by Rev. J.T. Lewis of Christ's church, Guilford.  Rev. A.C. Salis, present pastor of the church gave a historical sketch of the church, showing its marked growth during its early history and its faithful labors in the service of the Master during all the century. Then followed the reading of letters from former pastors and friends of the church and addresses by those present.  Among the latter was Calvin J. Mills of Sidney, a grandson of Deacon Samuel Mills one of the first members, whose address gave pleasure to all. The session was closed by an address, "The Glory of the Church," by Rev. G.H. Robinson, D.D., First Presbyterian church, Delhi, N.Y., which was listened to with much interest, and the whole program interspersed with excellent music was greatly enjoyed by all.  On registry of their names, badges were presented to every one, which will long remind them of the pleasant and interesting event.

Obituaries (January 2)

David Wicks

Utica Saturday Globe, July 1912

 

 

David Wicks

1845 - 1912

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  After a long and trying illness, during which he maintained long suffering fortitude, David Wicks, a civil war veteran and for many years a well known resident of Norwich, died at the home of his daughter in Oxford, Saturday morning, aged 66.  Born in Norfolk, Eng., August 31, 1845, a son of John Wicks, he came to America with his parents when a lad of 6 years. the family found a home in Utica shortly after their arrival in this country.  In early manhood he came to Norwich and studied medicine for two years with Dr. Bailey.  When President Lincoln called for 75,000 volunteers, Mr. Wicks, although he was still in his teens, was one of the first to enlist in the Seventeenth New York infantry.  He served in many battles and was so severely wounded that his health was undermined and he was unable to follow his chosen profession.  In 1869 he married Sarah L. Snow, who survives him, together with nine of the 10 children born to them.  The surviving children are :  Mrs. Grace Roe, of New York city; Mrs. George H. Smith, of Earlville; Mrs. Gilbert S--ford, of Oxford; Mrs. Charles Hemingway, of Ilion; Mrs. William Blos--- and Miss Hazel Wicks, of Norwich, Robert Wicks, of Albany; Edward Wicks, of Pratt's Hollow, and Joseph Wicks, of Rome.  Mr. Wicks was an affectionate husband and father and his love and interest centered in his home and family.  Funeral services were held in the Sheldon Street Free Methodist Church Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock.  Rev. W.B. Roupe officiating.  Comrades in E.B. Smith Post, G.A.R. acted as bearers.  Burial was made in Mount Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY].

 

Eliza Kerr

Northern Christian Advocate, July 24, 1849

Eliza Kerr died in Ira, Cayuga Co., N.Y., May 18, 1849, in the 18th year of her age.  She experienced religion at a camp meeting held in Lysander, about five years ago, and united with the M.E. Church.  Though she had been ill for a few days, they did not consider her dangerous till death's dark curtain obscured her earthly vision. She said to her friends, "I cannot see you."  They asked her if she was going to leave them for a home in heaven, and though she could not speak, she smiled and waved her hand in token of victory; then the spirit took its flight before all the family could be assembled to witness the affecting scene. Surely, death stands at the door.  O that we may be ready.    Wm. Peck

 

Daniel D. Van Allen

Northern Christian Advocate, July 24, 1849

Daniel D Van Allen, Esq., late of Chicago, Illinois, died about half way between Counsel Bluffs and Salt Lake, on the overland route to California, aged 39 years.  He had been induced by medical advisers to join in the expedition, as the last alternative to recover his enfeebled health.  He took leave of his wife, (daughter of the late Samuel Lawrence, deceased, of Penn Yan) and three daughters, March 28th, who soon after returned to their friends in Yates county, where the sad intelligence of the death of the son, husband, and father, was received about the first instant.  On Sabbath, the 8th inst., the occasion was improved at the chapel of the M.E. Church, in Starkey, by the writer, in a discourse founded on Heb. 4: 14, 15; a passage peculiarly dear to the deceased.  The day being favorable, an unusual concourse from different parts of the county united with a large circle of relatives, in testifying the affection and respect which friendship is wont to manifest where its ties are sundered. The bold adventure, which only served to abridge the period of life, was entered upon with the forlorn hope of being longer spared to comfort and provide for those who are now left to mourn, but not as those who have no hope.  Our departed brother professed faith and hope in Christ in the 17th year of his age, when residing with his father, Daniel Van Allen, Esq., in Scipio, Cayuga county.  His literary attainments, chiefly received at Cazenovia, joined with ardent zeal and good natural abilities for investigation and speaking, afforded ground to hope that they would be wholly consecrated to the work of the ministry.  His occasional discourses within a local sphere, gave evidence that had he given himself wholly to the work, he might have occupied a rank of respectability and usefulness.  As a son, a husband, father and brother, he was deservedly endeared.  In his last moments, and through the course of his Christian experience, he manifested his confidence in the Great Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Jesus, the Son of God, "who is touched with a feeling of our infirmities."--Finding that the closing scene was drawing near, he directed his pocket Bible to be brought from his trunk in the camp, and pointed to a portion which he wished to have read, which was done.  And with the word of life to "comfort him," as a rod and staff in the valley and shadow of death, he speedily passed over to an inheritance "more to be desired than gold, yea than much fine gold," leaving a wife and three daughters, with numerous friends, to mourn their loss.   M.T.  Geneva, July 14, 1849

 

Sally (Stephens) Wright

Northern Christian Advocate, July 24, 1849

Mrs. Sally Wright died in Evans, Erie county, N.Y., April 28, 1849, aged 58 years.  She was the daughter of Samuel Stephens.  Was born in New Marlborough, Berkshire county, Mass., Nov. 22, 1790.  Sister Wright united with the M.E. Church by letter from the Congregational Church in 1837.  She lived the life of the righteous, and died a happy and triumphant death.    J.F. Mason, July 16, 1849

Maye Turner Doolittle

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, January 23, 1901

She that was known here as Maye Alice Turner, daughter of Charles L. Turner, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], died at her home in Albion, N.Y. [Oswego Co.], Saturday, aged 23.  In June last Miss Turner was married to Dr. George Pierson Doolittle of Albion, and her death thus early in their wedded life, falls with crushing force upon the bereaved husband as well as other relatives and a large circle of friends in Norwich.  Besides her husband, father and mother, deceased leaves two brothers, Charles B. and Howard Turner, of Steamboat Rock, Iowa, and one sister, Mrs. John D. Daniels of Albion.  Mrs. Daniel E. Comstock and Mrs. John J. Van Allen of this village, are her aunts; Howard Bennett, her uncle and Mrs. James C. Bennett, grandmother.  Mrs. Doolittle was born near this village and lived here with her parents until about six years ago, when she went to Iowa; later she returned to Albion where she became the wife of Dr. Doolittle.  She was a woman of prepossessing appearance, of a kindly, generous disposition and made friends among all classes of people.  Funeral services were held Monday at 2:30 p.m.  Burial at Albion. 

Harvey Woods

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, January 23, 1901

Harvey Woods, after a few weeks illness, died at his home, No. 95 Silver street in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Friday, January 18, 1901, aged 61 years.  The funeral was held Monday at 10:30 a.m., Rev. Wilson Treible officiating, and burial was made at Yaleville, near Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].  Mr. Woods was born in the town of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].  He moved to Norwich from East Pharsalia three years ago.  he had resided in East Pharsalia for about eight years, moving to that place from Guilford.  He was a farmer by occupation, but during his residence in Norwich he had lived in retirement. During the Civil war he was a private in Co. K, Tenth, N.Y. Cavalry, and at the time of his death was a member in good standing of E.B. Smith Post, No. 83, G.A.R., of Norwich.  The deceased is survived by his widow, two daughters and one son--Mrs. Charles D. Furbush, Mrs. Burt Jacobs and Lewis Woods.

Alfred Woods

Norwich Sun, September 19, 1932

Alfred Woods, 76, of 15 Mechanic street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], died at the Chenango Memorial Hospital Saturday afternoon, following a short illness. Deceased was born in Oxford but resided in Norwich for 30 years, and was for several years in the employ of the Clarke-Conroy Company.  Funeral services will be held from the funeral home of Lawrence & Devine Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, with interment in Riverview cemetery in Oxford with Rev J.K. Romeyn officiating. Survivors include one sister, Mrs. Victor Scott of Unadilla, N.Y.; two brothers, Simon Woods of Oxford and Isaac Woods of Choconut, Pa., and several nieces and nephews.

Norwich NY 70 years ago, Related by George Denslow - 1906

Seventy Years Ago

Reminiscences of Early Days in Norwich, Chenango Co., NY 

Related by George W. Denslow, Who Was Ninety Years Old on Sept. 19, 1906

Compiled for the Union by Leonard W. Cogswell

Chenango Union, November 22, 1906

 

Down on Hayes street there was a general training lot, and also one on what is now Henry street.  The old Rider hotel on the Latham lot used to be opposite the Hayes st. training ground. We had great times there general training days.  Gen. Crane, father of Van B. Crane who lives on Court st., was the commander-in-chief when I came here.

 

We used to have great celebrations on "Independence Day," 4th of July.  I remember one particularly on July 4, 1840 here in Norwich by the Democrats and Whigs.  The democrats had their dinner in the orchard back of the Rider hotel where the Latham house stands nearly opposite the Union office.  I think the Whigs had their dinner on the Green.  Long processions marched in from the outlying towns, delegations of prominent citizens going out to meet incoming processions of their political adherents.  I think there were about 40 Democrats, of which I was one, went out on horseback to the top of West Hill and met one of these processions headed by Capt. John Harvey of Preston, a Revolutionary soldier, one of the old Continentals, and he had on his old continental suit of blue and buff. To me it seemed but a step back to "Old Pat" and Bunker Hill.

 

In their ragged regimentals

Stood the old Continentals,

Yielding not;

When the grenadiers were lunging

And like hail fell the plunging

Cannon shot.

 

But with eyes to the front of all,

And with guns horizontal

Stood our sires,

And the ball whistled deadly,

And, in streams flashing redly,

Blazed the fires

 

Each party had a band and they would march in opposite directions up and down Broad street at the same time, hollering and yelling, bands playing, each trying to drown out the other with noise.

 

In 1837 Chenango County had a population of a little less than 40,000, and was a congressional district by itself.  In those days it took three days to complete an election; the first day it was held at White Store, the next day at North Norwich (than a part of Norwich) and the last day here in Norwich.  We had pretty good times, for elections were not conducted then with so much machinery, fuss and feathers as now.  Then we had a plain ballot with nothing but the candidates of one particular party on a ticket, we went up and dropped it into the ballot box and knew we had voted the ticket we desired. We didn't have a ballot as big as a newspaper which must be folded with mathematical accuracy.  Then, if we found a doubtful voter, we could stick a ballot in his hand, march him by force up to the ballot box and see that he dropped it in, and then we knew that "he had delivered the goods."

 

I cast my first ballot for president in 1840 for Martin Van Buren, as good a democrat as there ever was, a much misrepresented man.  I voted here in 1838 for state officers, getting my goods here from New Haven in time, for then we had to have a certain amount of taxable property to vote.

 

In 1851 my wife and I went to Syracuse on business, and while there we heard that wonderful Hungarian patriot and orator, Louis Kossuth, speak.  I remember he wore a cocked hat with the three feathers in it.  He was a fiery speaker and made a great speech.

 

I remember when Horace Greely started the Log Cabin in the campaign of 1840, which was devoted to ridiculing Harrison, and then afterwards when he started the New York Tribune.  I remember when Charles Dana started the New York Sun.

 

Over in Cooperstown I remember when James Fennimore Cooper took the public by storm with his Leatherstocking and Pathfinder and Deerslayer tales.  The Norwich Journal, the Albany Evening Journal, edited by Thurlow Weed, the Tribune edited by Horace Greely, at one time printed a lot of stories relating to Cooper's action in excluding the public from Three Mile Point in Otsego Lake at Cooperstown, and Cooper sued them all for slander, and at one time had a dozen or more suits against Weed, and finally accumulated such a lot of judgments against various editors that Weed and others were forced to retract all they had said.  It was "bitter crow" for Thurlow Weed to eat.  I remember the talk of the time. I  remember the furors over the Morgan-anti-masonic troubles which waged so bitterly for some time caused by the disappearance of a Mr. Morgan who was said to have been secretly killed by the Masonic order.

 

To be continued

 

 

 

Obituaries (January 1)

Nancy (Avery) Ferry

Utica Saturday Globe, July 1912

 

Nancy (Avery) Ferry

1846 - 1912

The death of Mrs. Nancy A. Ferry, which occurred at Oil City, Pa., July 12, removes a woman of fine Christian character who was well known in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] having resided here until her removal to Oil City about four years ago.  She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hosea W. Avery, of Norwich, and a scion of one of the oldest and most respected families in this section.  She had a wide circle of friends both here and in Pennsylvania.  For 30 years Mrs. Ferry was a member of the First Baptist Church in this place and was an earnest and efficient worker in the church and Sunday school.  Her husband, Charles Ferry, former manager of the David Maydole Hammer Factory, died about 25 years ago.  She is survived by a sister, Mrs. John F. Hill of Norwich; a brother, Edward Avery, of Earlville; two nieces, Mrs. D.K. James, of Oil City, Pa., and Mrs. C.C. Norris, of South America, and a nephew, Charles Avery, of Earlville.  The remains arrived in Norwich on the Lackawanna train at 10 o'clock Monday morning, funeral services being held from the First Baptist Church at 3 o'clock in the afternoon.  Interment was made in Mount Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY].

 

Nathan Geer

Northern Christian Advocate, July 24, 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,  Plymouth, July 10, 1849

 

Francis Marion Hammond

Northern Christian Advocate, July 24, 1849

Francis Marion, oldest son of Wm. M. and Almeda Hammond, died in Evans, Erie county, N.Y., on Saturday, the 12th of May, aged 4 years and 1 day.  Little Francis was at the Sunday school the Sabbath before he died.  For some weeks preceding his sickness, an inquiry about heaven seemed to be awakened in his mind, and after having, for a few days, heard of the joys above, little Francis was called away from this world of sorrow, to see that sun-height clime, and to participate in its joys.  May his deeply afflicted parents so live as to meet his happy spirit on that blissful shore.     J.F. Mason   Eden, July 16, 1849

 

Joseph James

Northern Christian Advocate, July 24, 1849

Joseph James died in the town of Vienna [Oneida Co., NY], on the 11 June, in the 73d year of his age.  Father James for many years lived a faithful member of the M.E. Church, and we trust exchanged his relation to the Church on earth, for one to the Church triumphant in heaven.    W.H. Hawkins,  Vienna, June 11, 1849

 

Ada A. (Bisbe) Albright

The Courier, Brookfield, NY, April 11, 1946

Mrs. Ada A. Albright, 67, died Friday evening, March 22nd at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Albro of Hubbardsville where she had been staying a few weeks.  The funeral was held March 25, at 2 P.M. from the home of her daughter, Mrs. I.D. Whitney of Eaton and at 2:30 P.M. from the Congregational Church, Rev. R.T. Campbell of the Eaton Federated Church, assisted by Rev. A. Parker of East Hamilton Church, officiating.  Members of the Willow Glen Rebekah Lodge conducted a committal service at the grave.  Interment was made in Eaton Cemetery [Madison Co., NY].  Ada A. Albright was born September 1, 1878 in the town of Lebanon [Chenango Co., NY], the eldest daughter of Cyrenius and Alice Austin Bisbe. At the age of 16 years she moved with her parents to Eaton. She was united in marriage to the late Andrew J. Albright of Eaton on December 8, 1897.  Mrs. Albright was a member of the Eaton Methodist Episcopal Church for more than 40 years, and a loyal member of the Willow Glen Rebekah Lodge no. 158, and belonged to the Past Nobel Grand's Club of Eaton and Past Noble Grand's Association of Madison County.  She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. C.E. Branan and Mrs. I.D. Whitney both of Eaton; one son, Albert C. Albright of Hubbardsville; five grandchildren, Mrs. Phyllis R. Casadel of Rome, Phillip Alan and Jean Marie Whitney of Eaton and Linda Joyce and Karen Sue Albright of Hubbardsville; and a sister, Mrs. Eva Brown of Norwich.

 

Letter from England, 1944

A Letter from England

January 7, 1944

 

The following letter was written by cousins to Ilah Parker and has been given us for publication.

                                                                                                                        57 High St.
                                                                                                                        Staffordshire, England

Dear Ilah,

Just a few lines wishing you all a happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

I wonder how long we will have to wait before the end of this dreadful war.  We hope before another year ends there will be peace among the nations.  It seems to be tough going in Italy now.

I wonder if you know how horrible it is in Europe.  Thousands from their homes taken to unknown destinations.  Many shot, men, woman and children.  I specially think of the children.  Some nights I can't sleep for thinking about it all.  And we here in England would have had the same thing happen to us if they had got in.  I could never have believed it possible in this a supposed civilized age, for such terrible deeds to happen.

We were so grateful for the newspapers you sent us.  We have only one sheet to our paper now.  One of my sisters works for a man who has spent some time in America.  We let him read the papers and he was delighted with them.

I expect you in America are all lit up for Christmas.  I believe this has been the fifth winter of the blackout.  Boards made to fit in the window frames.  The police are very strict.  I see in our paper London and all of the large cities are getting lamps all in order for when peace comes, Churchill will give the signal for lights on.  Traveling is very difficult.  If a car is used for pleasure, one is liable to a fine.  They must only be used for essential purposes.  Public vehicles are packed, only 12 people are allowed to stand.

Two of my brothers are in the Royal Artillery.  They are stationed near one another.  Have another brother in Italy and another one in Africa.  We see lots of soldiers also Italians, Polish, etc.  American soldiers have wonderful equipment.  We will never be able to repay America for her kindness and helpfulness. We will always be very indebted to you.  We can't thank America enough.  Before Bill died, he said if America goes in the War, it is as good as won.  It is his daughter's wish that some day she will be able to visit you as her dad did. She works in a nursery school in Leeds, has 40 children under 5 years of age.  Their mothers are in war work.  My brothers' farms are mostly on the plough now.  Have to grow enough to feed their own cattle. Wheat is commanded by the Government so they can't have that.  Our hens only have oats. We miss the maize for better egg production.  We get a flat rate all the way around.  Nearly everything is under control.

We don't expect to have luxuries; we are very thankful we can get the essential things.  Now I must really close as it is getting late.  All send love to all our cousins in America.

                                                                                                  Lottie, Mary and Lillian