Marriages (May 28)

Cook-Bowers

Married December 16, 1939

Announcement was made today of the marriage, Saturday night, Dec. 16, of Ulricka Louise Bowers of this city to Lyman Albert Cook of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].  The nuptial service occurred at Montrose, Pa., with Rev. Marvin of the Presbyterian church officiating.  Mr. and Mrs. Henry Gibbs of North Norwich were the attending couple.  The groom is a well known cattle dealer.  The couple have many friends here who will extend them wishes for every happiness for the future.  Mr. Cook and his bride will make their home at 92 Mitchel street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].

Cooley - Pearsall

Married August 6, 1938

Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY]:  A very pretty wedding was solemnized at the Baptist church Saturday afternoon, August 6, at 2 o'clock when Miss Ruth Pearsall, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Laverne Pearsall became the bride of Mr. Ansel Cooley, son of Mr. and Mrs. Willis Cooley. The bridal party met at the altar while the wedding march was being played on the church organ by Ward Aldrich of Rockwells Mills and the ceremony was performed by Rev. Louis V.S. Hutton, pastor of the Baptist church assisted by Rev. Robert Wood, pastor of the Methodist church. The bride who wore a white crepe suit and white hat and carried a bouquet of garden flowers, was accompanied by Miss Ruth Fiske, maid of honor, who wore a light blue crepe dress, and Miss Florence Cooley, and Miss Jean Pearsall as bridesmaids. The best man was Everett Sargent of Gilbertsville, and the ushers were Glenn Pearsall, Floyd Cooley, Robert Davis and Donald Albrecht. After the ceremony at the church the bridal party were hurried to the home of the bride's parents where a reception was held at which about one hundred friends and relatives were present. Refreshments of ice cream, cakes and iced tea were served.  The happy couple left soon for a wedding trip to the Adirondacks. They expect to make their home in Mt. Upton.  The couple were the recipients of many beautiful and useful wedding gifts from friends and relatives which testify to the high esteem in which they are held. The whole community joins in wishing them a long and happy married life.

Mr. and Mrs. William C. Coe

60th Anniversary -1941

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mr. and Mrs. William C. Coe of Norwich, today celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with a reception for friends and relatives at the home of their son, Supervisor Leroy B. Coe, on the Chenango Lake Road.  Mr. and Mrs. Coe were married on July 8, 1882, at the First Baptist church, Norwich, by the Rev. Henry Delano.  Both Mr and Mrs. Coe are in good health.  Mr. Coe was for 12 years a constable in the Town of Norwich, a former employee of the Ontario & Western Railroad and a former carrier of a Norwich R.F.D. Route.  Besides the son already  mentioned, there are two sons, Lester B. Coe of Norwich and Charles B. Coe of Malverne, L.I., and a daughter, Miss Marian L. Coe of Indiantown Gap, Pa.

Wedding Announcements

Coe - Cole:  Announcement of the marriage of Miss Catherine Cole of this city to Donald Coe, high school faculty member, January 28, 1938, was made Tuesday. The ceremony was performed in Pennsylvania.  Mrs. Coe is the daughter of Mrs. Letha Cole of this city while Mr. Coe is the son of Mrs. Carl Coe.

Slater - Follett:  Miss Grace Hilda Follett and Homer J. Slater were united in marriage at the First Baptist church parsonage at eight o'clock Monday night [May 21, 1928] by the Rev. W.A. Ashmore. The couple will reside on the Lake Road. 

Salisbury - Cook:  At Newark Valley, July 3 [1931] occurred the marriage of Carrie Cook and Emory Salisbury, both of Greene [Chenango Co., NY] 

Figary - Hadlock:  At the Morrisville [Madison Co., NY] Congregational manse on Saturday, Sept. 22 [1917], occurred the marriage of Clarence V. Figary and Miss Beryl Hadlock of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. John R. Ellis.

Nicholson - Figary:  At two o'clock Saturday afternoon [Dec. 17, 1921] at the Calvary Baptist church parsonage occurred the wedding of Miss Edith Figary of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] and Otto Nicholson of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango American, August 16, 1860

In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., by Rev. Geo. Balcom, Mr. Elisha Keech, of New York, to Miss Nellie A. Swan, of the former place.

Chenango American, August 23, 1860

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], July 14th, by Rev. A.F. Harding, Mr. Nicholas H. Pierce of Colesville [Broome Co., NY] to Miss Carrie L. Elliott of the former place.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., by the same, Mr. James L. McCullor to Miss Harriet J. Judd, both of Colesville, Broome Co.

In Emmanuel Church, in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst., by Rev. R. Whittingham, Mr. Francis G. Clarke, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Clara M. Bockee, daughter of Isaac S. Bockee, deceased.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st inst., by Rev. D.A. Whedon, Mr. W.H. Pellet, to Miss Alice Wilson, all of Norwich.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst., by Rev. D.A. Whedon, Mr. Albert N. Dickinson, of Henry, Ill., to Miss Aruba A. Field, of Norwich, late Preceptress of the Ithaca Academy.

Memorial Day in Bainbridge - 1900

Memorial Day in Bainbridge

Bainbridge Republican, June 6, 1900

Last Wednesday, Memorial Day, was fittingly observed in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] by the H.H. Beecher Post of this village.  The day was partially cloudy, but at other times the sun shone brightly. The order of the exercises of the day began in the morning at 10 o'clock.  The veterans meeting at the Post room, headed by the drum corps, marched to the various cemeteries to decorate the graves of their dead comrades.  The veterans were in full Grand Army uniform and presented an imposing appearance.

At 12 o'clock the veterans again assembled at their Post rooms, and at this time accompanied by the Bainbridge band went in a body to the 12:13 train and escorted the speaker, Hon. Chas. Fuller of Sherburne, to the Central Hotel, after which the old soldiers broke ranks till 1:30 when they again were in marching order and escorted the speaker to Prince Hall, where the chief exercises of the day were held.

At the hall, music was furnished by the band and also by the Grand Army glee club lead by Daniel Banner. The singing was especially fine.  Hon. Chas. A. Fuller then addressed the veterans and the large audience of people who had assembled.

Mr. Fuller's speech was highly commented upon by all who listened to it.  He referred to past events in a touching and sympathizing manner.  He also dwelt upon all the national issues of the day pointing out the course that every honest citizen ought to pursue.  Mr. Fuller certainly pleased the Bainbridge people and there was a general desire that he might speak in Bainbridge again.  Mr. Fuller is a veteran and bears constantly a reminder of his active service in the civil war.  He was a member of the 61st N.Y. Regiment and lost a limb at the battle of Gettysburg.

The camp fire in the evening was also largely attended.  Short speeches were made by Rev.s Reed and Sachett, Hon. Chas. A. Fuller, comrades Perry Rood, A.J. Wilcox and John Fletcher.  All were spicy and well received by the audience.  Music was furnished by the G.A.R. glee club.

Obituaries (May 25)

Ralph Worden Cornell, Sr.

Died May  31, 1935, Norwich, NY

Ralph Worden Cornell, Sr.

1896-1935

Ralph W. Cornell proprietor of Cornell's liquor store on North Broad street, is confined by illness in the Chenango Memorial Hospital, and expects to undergo an operation some time next week.  During Mr. Cornell's illness his place of business will be looked after by Mrs. Cornell and his son, Worden.  While Mr Cornell has been sick, rumors have been flying about the city that he desired to dispose of his business, but interviewed today by a representative of this newspaper he declared such was not the case, and that he will continue to operate the business although his illness will prevent him from giving his personal attention to it.  Instead, Mrs. Cornell and members of the family will care for the trade. The many friends of Mr Cornell hope for his speedy recovery and early return to normal health.  [Chenango Telegraph, May 28,. 1935]

Ralph W. Cornell underwent an operation at the Chenango Memorial Hospital Wednesday morning for a kidney ailment.  His condition was reported as quite serious this afternoon.  [Norwich Sun, May 29, 1935]

Ralph W. Cornell of 12 King street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], well known local business man passed away at the Chenango Memorial Hospital about 5:30 Friday night after a brief illness.  Mr. Cornell who was born in Smithboro, N.Y. [Tioga Co.], January 12, 1896, had been in ill health for about six weeks.  he had been a patient at the hospital for the past two weeks.  News of his death was a shock to his many friends in this city, all of whom will offer sincere sympathy to his bereaved family. The deceased was a graduate of Utica Free Academy and lived in Utica a great portion of his life or until he came to Norwich to reside 16 years ago.  For 14 years he successfully managed the Mathews store in this city and in recent months had been proprietor of the Cornell retail liquor store on North Broad street.  Mr. Cornell was a member of Immanuel Baptist church at Utica and Norwich lodge, 302, F. and A.M.  He was well liked by many friends, and his untimely passing has cast a gloom over those who knew him best.  Besides his wife there survive four children, Ralph Worden Cornell, Jr., Jane Cornell, William Charles Cornell and Frederick Warren Cornell; his mother, Mrs. Carrie Clive of Utica; a sister, Mrs. William MacCarter of Corinth, Miss.; a half sister, Louise Clive of Yonkers and half brother, Robert Clive of Utica.

Harold L. Coy

Died October 5, 1928, Norwich, NY

Harold L. Coy, 29 years old, lies in the Chenango Memorial Hospital, hovering between life and death, as the result of serious injuries sustained Thursday night at the Lackawanna avenue crossing of the D.L. & W. Railroad, when his Dodge coupe was struck by the Lackawanna, south bound passenger train, due at the Norwich station at 10:19 p.m.  Leaving his place of business, the Norwich Auto Parts Co., conducted by himself and Levi Haynes, Coy jumped into his Dodge coupe intent on going to his home at 6 Adelaide street.  Skid marks on the Lackawanna avenue pavement more than 20 feet from the crossing show that Coy must have seen the train bearing down upon him, and that he applied the brakes and tried to stop his car.  His auto was caught on the crossing, however, and carried a little way when it jammed against a water crane.  The car was a total wreck, and how Coy escaped instant death is a miracle.  He was evidently thrown clear of the machine, as his body was picked up a few feet south of the water plug, and taken in the William Breese ambulance to the hospital, where Drs. Thomas F. Manley and Edwin F. Gibson were called to attend him.  He was conscious when taken to the hospital, but because of the broken jaw was unable to talk.  The train, in charge of Conductor Edward Fairchild of Utica, and Engineer William Knauer also of Utica, was traveling at a slow rate of speed as it was preparing to stop at the Norwich station about 150 feet south of the crossing.  Nicholas Fox, baggageman on the train, saw the accident, and is said to have remarked "this is going to be a close one."  Although the police station is just cross the tracks from the scene of the crash, it is reported by those at the railroad station that not a policeman appeared on the scene for at least half an hour afterward, bringing many caustic remarks from the train crew.  The crossing is guarded by gates during the day but after 7:30 at night there is no watchman on duty there. There is much conflicting testimony as to the sound of the bell of the engine.  Witnesses within hearing distance distinctly recall hearing the clang of the bell, while others just as stoutly maintain the bell was not rung.  Because of a city ordinance, no locomotive whistle of any train in sounded at night.  The victim of the accident is a well known young man and has been engaged in business here for some time.  He is married, his wife being the former Miss Madeline E. Kelly.  He is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. Coy of 23 Hickok avenue, and a brother of Gerald Coy, who is a salesman for the J.N. Benedict Company   He also has two sisters, Olive and Bertha Coy.

Harold L. Coy, seriously injured Thursday night when his Dodge coupe was struck by the Lackawanna passenger train due at the Norwich station at 10:18 p.m., succumbed to his injuries just before 5 o'clock Friday afternoon, at the Chenango Memorial Hospital, where he was removed after the fatal crash.  Coy suffered from a compound fracture of the lower jaw and internal injuries which caused his death.  Hopes were entertained earlier in the day that he might survive, but later it was admitted that the shock would probably be too severe for him to withstand.  An autopsy was performed at the undertaking parlors of Lawrence & Devine at 89 o'clock Friday night by direction of Dr. E.W. Wilcox, coroner.  Drs. T.F. Manley, E.F. Gibson and L.T. Kinney performed the autopsy.  The victim of the accident would have been 30 years of age on November 14 next.  He was born in this city and received his education in the local public schools, after which he formed a partnership with Levi Haynes in the Norwich Auto Parts in the Eagle hotel block.  He was enroute from his place of business to his home, 6 Adelaide street, when the accident occurred.  Soon after the crash Officer F.J. Clark appeared at the scene, called the ambulance which took Coy to the hospital and otherwise gave assistance.  Coy was a likeable young man and had numerous friends who will mourn his untimely passing.  His death brings a total of four who have been victims of automobile tragedies in this vicinity in the past 12 days.  Two of there were grade crossing accidents.  Besides his wife, Mr. Coy is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles A. Coy, and brother Gerald; also two sisters, Olive and Bertha.  Funeral service are to be held at 2 o'clock Monday afternoon at the home of W.C. Kelly, 28 Adelaide street, and at 2:30 in Calvary Baptist church, Rev. Norman McPherson officiating.  Interment will be in Mt. Hope cemetery [Norwich, NY].

Nancy A. (Wood) Coy

Died March 21, 1927

Mrs. Nancy A. Coy passed away at the home of her son Will C. Coy Monday p.m. at 2 o'clock, March 21, 1927, following an illness of 21 days. The 1st of March she suffered a severe stroke of paralysis from which she never rallied, failing gradually from day to day.  The deceased was born in the town of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], June 25, 1846, in the house where she had spent the most of her life.  She was one of two children of Henry and Alvira Wood.  January 25, 1867, she was united in marriage to William Henry Coy of New Lisbon.  Unto them were born three children:  Lena, Verna, and Will C.  Since the death of her husband fourteen years ago, she has resided in her own home until about a week before her illness, was moved to the home of her son in this village where she was tenderly cared for. She and her husband united with the Baptist church forty-two years ago and was a faithful member until her health failed.  We realize that any words of ours would fail to do justice to the departed one as she was so well and favorably known by a large circle of friends. She is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Verna A. Wills, of Walton; a son, Will C. Coy, of this place; two granddaughters, Marian and Jean Wills, two grandsons, Kenneth J. Coy and Earl Franklin,; two half brothers, two half sisters and a sister; a daughter, Lena, preceded her in death.

Death Notices

Chenango American, August 30, 1860

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 20th inst.,James H. [Adair], son of John and Mary Ann Adair, aged 2 years.

In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th inst., Mrs. Wilbur, wife of Abraham Wilbur, aged 34 years.

In new Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst, Mr. Alva Whitmore, aged 64 years.

Obituaries (May 24)

George Sharp

Chenango American, August 9, 1860

Capt. George Sharp, of East Greene [Chenango Co., NY] was suddenly killed on Tuesday last in the following manner:  He was riding in a buggy in the vicinity of Alexander Day's, about four miles above this village, on the east side of the river, when his horse became frightened from some cause unknown, while descending a hill, and while running rapidly, overturned the buggy, throwing Mr. Sharp out, his head striking upon a stone, killing him almost instantly.  He was an old resident of this section, and was about sixty years of age.

Daniel B. Cowles

Chenango Telegraph, September 1, 1942

Daniel B. Cowles, for many years an Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] merchant and member of the firm of Loomis & Cowles, who conducted a general store, died at the home of his nephew, George Graves, Chenango Lake road early Monday morning.  Mr. Cowles was 79 years old Aug. 22.  He was born in Smithville Center [Chenango Co., NY] and for many years was in business in Oxford.  He never married.  There survive his sister, Mrs. Emma Graves, Chenango Lake road, a brother, Will Cowles of Smithville Center and another brother, Walter Cowles of Oxford, also several nephews and nieces. Services are to be held at the Breese Funeral Home at 2 o'clock Thursday afternoon with burial in Riverview cemetery at Oxford.

George M. Coss 

Died March 28, 1933

George M. Coss passed away Tuesday p.m., March 28, 1933, at the home of Mr. and Mrs. W.C. Coy, following a stroke which he suffered the Sunday morning previous.  He was born in the town of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], June 28, 1859 and was one of three children born to Peter H Coss and Lemira Fuller.  A brother Orlando and sister Marian passed away some years ago.  He was united in marriage to Laura B. Scott of Masonville December 17, 1884.  Two children were born unto them:  Lena L. and Fred W Coss. At the time of his death he was a emmber of the Broad street M.E. Church in Norwich and a regular attendant of the Baptist and M.E. Churches in this village where he had resided since the passing of his wife three years ago.  Surviving are the son and daughter, two granddaughters, Hazel C and Norma L. Coss, two step-grandchildren Bertha Belle Chapin and Kenneth T. Coy, nephew Frank Coss of Brooklyn, N.Y., two nieces, Mrs. Mary D. Howland of Bainbridge and Mrs. George Culver of Milford, N.Y., other neices, nephews and cousins.  The funeral services were held at the M.E. Church this village, Friday p.m., March 31, 1933, Dr.  J.W. Nicholson officiating, assisted by Rev. Skinner and Rev. Salin.  Burial was in Riverside cemetery.

Laura B. (Scott) Coss

Died May 12, 1930

Mrs. Laura B. Coss passed away at her late home Monday, May 12, 1930, following a stroke which she suffered a few hours previous.  She was born in Masonville, N.Y. [Delaware Co.] March 26, 1868.  She was one of four daughters of Willis and Sarah Scott.  December 17, 1884, she was united in marriage to George M. Coss also of Masonville.  Two children were born unto them:  Lena L. and Fred W. Coss. At the time of her death she was a member of the Broad Street M.E. Church in Norwich, N.Y., an active worker in the societies affiliated with the church to which she belonged.  Surviving are her husband, daughter Mrs. Lena L. Coy, son Fred W. Coss, an aged mother Mrs. Sarah Scott and four grandchildren, two sisters, Mrs. L.C. Benedict of Afton, Mrs. G.R. Smith of Nineveh, several nieces and nephews. The funeral services were held at the M.E. Church, this village on Wednesday afternoon, May 14th, Dr. J.W. Nicholson, of Norwich officiating. Burial was in Riverside cemetery.

Death Notices

Chenango American, August 16, 1860

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., Willie A. [Church], infant son of Wm. and Jane Church, aged 6 months and 16 days.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Miss Betsey Preston, aged 54 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Mr. Elijah Annable, aged 89 years.

In new Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., Julia Ann [Steere], wife of Saml. Steere, aged 30 years.

Obituaries (May 22)

Clayton Tong & Charles Collins, Jr.

Republican Press, Salamanca, NY, November 6, 1939

St. Bonaventure college authorities reported today that Clayton Tong, twenty-two, president of the senior class and a member of the varsity football team, was killed today when the car in which he was a passenger left the highway near Delevan.  Tong was returning here from Buffalo, where he played in the St. Bonaventure-Canisius game yesterday.  A companion Charles Collins, Jr., of Norwich, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], a junior student, was reported injured, He was nineteen years old.  Tong was a graduate of Corning (N.Y.) Free Academy.

Tong died almost instantly of a fractured neck, state troopers reported after investigating the accident.  He was driver of the car, a roadster, several years old, owned by Daniel McCarthy of St. Bonaventure, the troopers said.  Collins was the most seriously injured of the six young people riding in the car. He received lacerations of the face and head.  Others injured were:  Richard Freancy, twenty, Olean, shock and bruises; James McLean, nineteen, Rome, lacerations and bruises about the head;  Jane Seitler, nineteen, Olean, shock; Margaret Root, Olean, lacerations and shock.

The car in which the students were riding was headed south on the Buffalo-Olean highway about a mile north of Yorkshire Corners when the accident occurred, the state police reported. The car crashed into a truck, traveling in the opposite direction, then careened into a parked bus and finally crashed into the ditch.  The bus had been chartered from the Buffalo & Erie Coach company to carry St. Bonaventure students to the football game.  It was returning to Allegany at the time of the accident.  The bus carrying the students is reported to have been stalled on the highway and another bus was sent out by the company.  The second bus had pushed the stalled machine from the highway to the shoulder of the road, and the two busses were standing there when the car driven by Tong came up behind them.  As the car passed the busses, Tong apparently lost control, the troopers said, and the car swerved into the side of a truck driven by Albert Lamb of friendship and headed north. The car then was tossed to the other side of the road and rammed into the side of one of the busses before crashing into the ditch. The damaged bus was driven by Leon Fay of Olean.  Troopers reported that four of the young people were riding in the front seat of the roadster driven by Tong, and two were riding in the rumble seat.

Ambulances from Delevan and Arcade took the injured to an Olean hospital.  Coroner Carl J. Hosmer of Olean is investigating the accident. The highway was wet with rain and melted snow at the time of the accident, troopers said.

The Evening Ledger, Corning, NY, November 6, 1939

Clayton Tong, 1916-1939

Yearbook Photo, Corning Free Academy

Word was received here this morning of the accident which cost the life of Mr. Tong, 377 East Second street, president of the senior class of St. Bonaventure College. The tragedy occurred near Olean as Mr. Tong--guard on the St. Bonaventure football team--was returning from Buffalo to St. Bonaventure after his college's gridiron clash with Canisius.  St. Bonaventure College was plunged in mourning today, saddened by the death of its senior class president, Mr. Tong, who was fatally injured in an automobile accident near Yorkshire early this morning.  Death was almost instant, the Corningite receiving a broken neck and a broken right leg when the car he was driving to St. Bonaventure collided with another machine on Route 16 about 33 miles from Olean, Coroner Carl J. Hosmer said.  Coroner Hosmer said today that the Corningite started to pass two buses which were transporting the St. Bonaventure band and as he swerved into the highway his car was involved in a collision with an approaching vehicle driven by Robert Brennan of Arcade. Charles Collins of Norwich a passenger in the Arcade man's car, received cuts about the face and suffered from loss of blood.  His condition was described as "fair" today at the Olean Hospital.  Visibility was poor and the highway was slippery with sleet and snow, Coroner Hosmer said.  The cars did not strike head on, the machine driven by the Corningite glancing off the side of the Arcade machine and leaving the highway, Coroner Hosmer said. The car did not overturn nor were there any culverts for it to strike according to the Coroner.

Clayton Tong was born in Tioga, Pa., January 24, 1916, the son of Mrs. Blanche Tong Gee of Elkland, Pa. and the late Raymond L. Tong.  He received his early education in the public schools at Elkland, coming to Corning when he was 13 to enter Corning Free Academy.  He made his home here with Mr. and Mrs. George H. Richardson, 377 East Second street.  It was on the CFA Gridiron that he was given the nickname, "Joe Brown," by which he was known to many.  He captained the varsity football squad in his Senior year.  He graduated in June, 1934.

After working a year at Corning Glass Works, Mr. Tong entered St. Bonaventure College to prepare for a career in law.  He was honored in his sophomore year by being elected president of his class, an honor which was again given him as a Senior.  A private in Corning's National Guard unit, Company H, for two years, he continued his military service in the Reserve Officers Training Corps at St. Bonaventure where he was recently given the ROTC's highest honor.  He was elevated in rank to Lieutenant Colonel and named "commander" of his company.

Mr. Tong entered St. Bonaventure on a scholarship.  He was a member of the St. Bonaventure varsity football squad for three years, earning his first letter in his sophomore year.  He had started regularly at right  guard in the St Bonaventure line up this season.

His determination to succeed and his genial disposition won him many friends on the St. Bonaventure campus and in Corning.  He is survived by his mother, four sisters and brothers, Mrs. Ruth Webster, Wellsboro, Pa.; Mrs. Mildred Edmister, Painted Posit, Theodore and Stewart Tong of Coopers Plains and a stepbrother, Arthur Borden of Elkland, Pa.  The body was brought today to the family home at Elkland for funeral services tentatively set for Thursday.

Chenango Telegraph, November 10, 1939

Charles J. Collins, 1918-1939

Yearbook Photo, Norwich High School

Charles J. Collins, 21, son of Jerry and Mae Ganley Collins of 59 Rexford street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], died at 3:05 Wednesday afternoon at St. Francis Hospital, Olean.  Mr. Collins was the second victim of an automobile crash which cost the life also of Clayton Tong of Corning, senior class president and varsity football member at St. Bonaventure college, early Monday morning.

Mr. Collins' death resulted from a fractured skull and internal injuries.  Born in Norwich September 26, 1918, Charles J. Collins was graduated from Norwich high school in 1937 and entered St. Bonaventure college that fall. A member of the junior class he was prominent in campus life  He was a member of the Central New York Club at the college, an officer in the reserve officers' training corps and popular with his associates.  The body was brought to this city where services will be held from the family home at 9:30 Monday morning and at St. Paul's church at 10 o'clock, where the pastor, Rev. Father Charles M. Coveney, will officiate. Burial will be made in the family plot at St. Paul's cemetery [Norwich, NY].  Besides his parents there survive also a brother, Jerry C. Collins, Jr., who is a student at St. Bonaventure; his grandmother, Mrs. Charles H. Ganley, and his grandfather, John M. Collins, besides a legion of friends.

The accident which caused fatal injuries to Tong and Collins occurred early Monday morning at Yorkshire Corners near Olean, according to a report by State Trooper Ralph A. Gibson who investigated.  Mr. Tong, the report said, was driving the car which was registered in the name of Daniel F .McCarthy of St. Bonaventure, as owner.  James McLean, 19, of Rome, another occupant of the ill-fated car, suffered a cut over his right eye and Richard Freaney, 20, of Olean, escaped with bruises and shock.  Two other occupants of the car, state police reported were the Misses Jane Seitler and Margaret Root, both of Olean, who suffered minor lacerations and shock. They did not require hospitalization.  Mr. Tong died which en route to the hospital, having suffer a broken neck and right leg.  The party was returning from the Canisius-St. Bonaventure football game,  played Sunday afternoon at Buffalo in which Tong had participated, playing right guard.

Coroner Carl J. Hosmer said the students and the party were riding south on the Olean road when they sideswiped a truck and then caromed against a bus.  The driver of the truck was Albert Lamb of Friendship while at the wheel of the bus was Leon Fay of Olean.  

While his condition was critical from the first and he had failed to regain consciousness, news of the death of Mr. Collins, received here Wednesday afternoon was a shock to all.  At St. Bonaventure, he was working for a degree of bachelor of arts.

Collins Funeral

Friends and relatives and members of the student body at St. Bonaventure filled St. Paul's church to capacity Monday morning for funeral services for Charles J. Collins. Services at the family residence, 59 Rexford street at 10:30 were followed at 11 o'clock by the church service where a solemn high mass was celebrated.  Officiating at the mass were Rev. Father Arthur Brophy, OFM, acting as celebrant; Rev. Father Canisius Connor, OFM, deacon, and Rev Father Aubert Conlon, OFM, as sub-deacon, all from St. Bonaventure college. Rev. Father Francis Murphy of St. Paul's church served as master of ceremonies  In the sanctuary were Rev Father Cornelius Madden, OFM, of St. Bonaventure; Rev. Father A.J Ruppert of Utica; Rev. Father Walter A Sinnott of St. Bartholomew's church and Rev. Father Charles M. Coveny of St. Paul's Chruch.

Music of the service was by the seminary choir of St. Bonaventure with Rev. Father Claude Kean, OFM, as organist.  Mr. Collins, fatally injured in a motor accident a week ago, was a member of the reserve officers' training corps.  Full military honors were paid to him Monday by Norwich Post of the American legion.  Honorary bearers at the rites were David Miner, Joseph Gallagher, John Weiler, William Lyons, Francis McInerney, John Mulligan, Clarence Barnes and Buddy O'Brien.  Active bearers, all classmates at St. Bonaventure, were: Robert Cullings, Joseph Burke, Joseph Nastri, Lawrence Hausher, Daniel McCarthy and William Grace.

Burial was made in the family plot at St. Paul's cemetery where the seminary choir also sang. Rev. Father Murphy officiated at the committal service.  Members of the Legion color guard, commanded by Gordon Ingalls and S.J. Johnson served as an escort. A volley to the dead was fired by the Legion firing squad commanded by Chester Smith and taps were sounded.  In addition to a delegation of ROTC officers from St Bonaventure, a delegation of 40 students also attended the services.

Obituaries (May 21)

William Henry

Chenango American, August 2, 1860

In New Orleans, on the 14th ult., after a protracted illness, brought on by the bursting of a blood vessel, in the 24th year of his age, William Henry, second son of William and Mary Henry, of Smithville Flatts, Chenango County, N.Y., and grandson of the late George Henry, Esq., of Broomfield, and of the late Hugh Jackson, Esq., of Cremorne, House Co., Monaghan, Ireland.  From his childhood up no better son were parents ever blest with, and the stroke has fallen the more heavily on us as we each day looked for his arrival at home, where his amiable and cheerful disposition made every one feel happy, but God had willed it otherwise, and we bow to the decree; thro' faith in Christ, knowing that our beloved Willie "is not dead but sleepeth."  The cold hand of death has laid his body in the grave, but his happy spirit freed from bondage, winged its flight to God who gave it.  

"He is only gone before, We shall meet again,

Oh! that will be joyful to meet to part no more."

Fred Taylor Cummings

Died August 2, 1935, Norwich, NY

On Sunday night, August the 2nd, occurred the death of Fred Taylor Cummings at his home at East Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].  The deceased was the youngest son of Sephen Maxwell and Emily Taylor Cummings and was born at Norwich August 16, 1881.  He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Florence E. Cummings, four sons, Earle G. of Syracuse, Alfred D. of New York, Lee and Bruce of Norwich; one daughter, Mrs. Bessie Burlingame of Norwich; two sisters, Mrs. R.J. Manning and Mrs. William Babcock of Norwich, and four grandchildren.  Mr. Cummings has been employed at the O.&W. for the past twenty years.  He was a member and regular attendant at the First Baptist church when in good health. Besides his family a wide circle of friends mourn his death.  He had a personality which inspired love and respect in all who knew him. His home, his family and his church were his great interest.

"There is a land of pure delight,

Where saints immortal reign.

Infinite day excludes the night.

And pleasures banish pain;

There everlasting spring abides

And never withering flowers.

Death, like a narrow sea divides 

This heavenly land from ours.

Oh! could we make our doubts remove

These gloomy doubts that rise.

And see the Canaan that we love

With unbeclouded eyes.

Could we but climb where Moses stood

And view the landscape o'er,

Not Jordan's stream nor Death's cold flood

Should fright us from that shore."

Millie (Bowen) Cornell

Died July 27, 1927, White Store, NY

Mrs. Millie Cornell died suddenly at her home at Latham's Corners [Chenango Co., NY] Thursday Morning at 12:30, aged 66 years.  Mrs. Cornell had suffered from heart trouble, which caused her death. The deceased was the widow of Edgar Cornell, who died ten years ago and the daughter of Henry Bowen.

Many hearts were sad, many eyes tearful, Thursday morning, July 27, 1927, when the message came to us:  "Millie is gone."  Millie Bowen Cornell was born July 6, 1861, the daughter of Henry and Agness Mitchell Bowen, on the farm where she died.  Early in life she was married to Edgar Cornell, going to Montana, they spent several years there.  At the death of her father, Henry Bowen, they came back East and bought the homestead and there she had spent her remaining years.  After the death of her husband, nine years ago last March, Frank Shampang and family have lived there and worked the farm, Mrs. Cornell occupying rooms in the house with them.  Mr. and Mrs. Shampang and daughter Lottie did everything that could be done to relieve her suffering, caring for her most tenderly until the end.  She was a great lover of nature, always studying the birds, wild flowers, ferns and the trees. She was a valued member of the Home Bureau of which she was chairman for several years; the weather had to be very bad and the roads about impassable if she missed a meeting. She was very much interested in the community, ever ready to lend a helping hand where she could. Being one of the officers of Evergreen Cemetery association, she was vitally interested in the upkeep of the White Store church and cemetery. She was a member of Tianderah Chapter D.A. R.   She was a member of the M.E. church at Mt. Upton, where she always attended when possible. She was a highly respected lady and will be missed by all who knew her.  Mute testimony of the high esteem in which she was held was shown by the large gathering of friends and neighbors that met at the late home Saturday afternoon to show their love and respect for her.  She leaves to mourn her passing one daughter Lila, wife of Harold Phillips, one stepson Frank Cornell, one sister Mrs. Lina Rockwell, and several grandchildren. The Community Club attended in a body.  Millie lay in her beautiful casket surrounded by the many flowers she so dearly loved.  The bearers were Lynn Nearing, Merton Morse, Walter Greene, Will Pearsall, Leon Lewis, Claude Isbell,  She was laid to rest beside her husband in Evergreen cemetery. Rev. N.G. McPherson of Norwich, officiated.

The smile on her face is quiet,

A rose is on her breast,

Her hands are folded together,

The word on her lips is rest.

We can not think of her idle,

She must be a Homemaker still.  

God giveth that work to the angels,

Who best the task fulfill.

Death Notices

Chenango American, August 2, 1860

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 31st ult., Mr. Theodore Miller, aged 65 years.

At Van Buren Corners, in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th ult., Mr. Abner Gilbert, 2d, aged 66 years.

In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th ult., Mr. Clark A. Eaton, aged 24 years.

In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult., Mrs. Lucy Whiting, aged 58 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d ult., Mary W. [Smith], wife of Pardon Smith, aged 56 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult., Arthusa Whiting, relict of Dea. Erastus B. Whiting, late of Guilford, aged 58 years.

Chenango American, August 9, 1860

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on Saturday morning, the 4th inst., Susan [Cowan], wife of B.F. Cowen, aged 83 years.

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st last, of consumption, Melville [Beach], only child of Darius Beach, aged 14 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst., Mr. Calvin Young, aged 43 years and 6 months.

Marriages (May 20)

Cluff - Worden

Married August 1942

Mrs. Pearl Catherine Worden of 124 East Avenue, Minoa, and George Anthony Cluff of Billington's Bay, were united in marriage last Saturday morning in the First English Lutheran Church. The Rev. Dr. Edward L. Keller, pastor, officiating at the full ring ceremony.  Mr. and Mrs. John J. Hayes were attendants.  Mr. and Mrs. Cluff will live at Billington's Bay.

Cobb - Thomas

Married September 24, 1939

Greene [Chenango Co., NY]:  Miss Ruth Thomas, daughter of Volney Thomas of Ithaca and Howard Cobb, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Cobb of Greene, were married Sunday, September 24, 1939, at the home of the bride's aunt, Miss Lena Thomas in Ithaca, N.Y. They were attended by Mrs. Arthur Townly of Ithaca, and Donald Seeley of Mt. Upton, N.Y.  About 20 of the immediate members of the families were present.  Mr. and Mrs. Cobb will reside in Ithaca.

Hardacker - Hutchins

Married September 23, 1939

Miss Ernestine Hutchins, Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Parker Hutchins of Brisben [Chenango Co., NY] and Arnold Hardacker of Lexington, Mass., were married in the Baptist church in New Milford, Pa., Saturday afternoon, September 23, at 2 o'clock by the Rev. E.L. Gould, pastor of the Baptist church in Greene, N.Y.  They were attended by James and Phyllis Hutchins, brother and sister of the bride. The bride was given in marriage by her father, Parker Hutchins.  Mr. and Mrs. Hardacker will reside in Lexington, Mass.

Marriage Notices

Chenango American, June 21, 1860

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], at the Chenango House, on the 14th inst., by Rev. Jas. D. Webster, Mr. Charles C. Durand, of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], to Miss Margaret Swan, of Chenango, Broome Co.

In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., by Rev. B. S. Williams, Mr. John Burnapp, to Miss Jennie Shapley, both of Lebanon [Madison Co., NY].

Chenango American, June 28, 1860

At St. Peter's Church, Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] on the 12th inst., by Rev. S.R. Johnson, D.D., the Rev. N.A. Johnson, Rector of the Parish, to Miss Henrietta A. [Chamberlin], youngest daughter of the late Hon. J.P. Chamberlin, of Afton.

Chenango American, July 12, 1860

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., by P.L. Wescott, Esq., Mr. Peter Phillips, of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Frances Lewis, of Norwich.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., by Rev. L. Wright, Mr. Frederick D. Eldredge, to Miss Amanda [Burlingame], daughter of Charles Burlingame, Esq.

Chenango American, July 26, 1860

At Hyde Settlement, Broome co., at the residence of the bride's sister, on Tuesday the 24th inst., by the Rev. A.G. Orton, D.D., of Lisle, Dr. A Quivey, of Red Creek, Wayne Co., N.Y., and Miss Mary L. [Carter], youngest daughter of J.W. Carter, of this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY].

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., by Rev. A.S. Southworth, Mr. Harvey Wescott of Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY], to Miss Mary A. Norton, of Bainbridge.

Chenango American, August 2, 1860

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 80th ult., by Warren Gray, Esq., Mr. Joseph Smith, to Miss Phebe E. Sackett, all of this town.

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th ult., by Rev. W. G. Queal, Mr. Geo. W. Davis, to Miss Lepha A. Searles, both of Bainbridge.

In King Settlement [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d ult., by S. Buell, Esq., Mr. Benjamin T. Cook, to Miss Angeline Paul, of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Obituaries (May 17)

Carlos B. Crosby

Died December 25, 1938, Norwich, NY

Carlos B. Crosby died Sunday night about 8:30 at his home, 50 Division street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].  The deceased was born in the town of North Norwich, Feb. 20, 1862.  He had been a resident of this city for several years.  Services are to be held at the Breese funeral Home at 2 o'clock Wednesday afternoon, Rev. D.G. DeBoer officiating, with burial in Mt. Hope [Norwich, NY]. There survive a step-daughter, Mrs. Maude Wightman, two step-grandchildren, Mrs. Floyd Foster of Norwich and Mrs. Vesta Somers of Oceanville, N.J., also several nephews and nieces.

Timothy J. Creedon

Died July 18, 1933, Albany, NY

the death of Timothy J. Creedon, a former prominent and well known resident of this city occurred Tuesday in Albany [Albany Co, NY] at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Mary McGuirk.  Deceased was 95 years of age.  The late Mr. Creedon was born in Ireland but came to this country when a young man.  He settled in the vicinity of New Berlin where he operated a farm for over 50 years and brought up his family of two sons and a daughter.  After the death of his wife he retired from the business of agriculture about 25 years ago and since then had made his home with his children, coming back each year, as long as his health permitted, to visit with the friends he had known for years and take a look at the scenes where he had spent the greater part of his life and which were near and dear to him.  Eleven years ago he went to make his home with his daughter, at Albany.  Funeral services will be held Thursday morning at 9 o'clock from the funeral home of George J. Devine and at 9:30 from St. Paul's church of which the deceased was a member Rev. Father Charles M. Coveney, pastor, will officiate and burial will be made in the family plot at St. Paul's cemetery.  Bedsides the daughter mentioned there survive also two sons, Frank J. Creedon and John L. Creedon, both of Albany, also five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.  The late Mr. Creedon leaves many friends in Chenango county who will learn with sincere sorrow of his demise.

Ned W. Crounse

Died April 1937, Oaksville, NY

Oaksville [Otsego Co., NY]:  Ned W. Crounse, 61, was killed early yesterday when he fell over a small railing on a second floor porch of his home here and plunged to the ground. Dr. Floyd J. Atwell, Cooperstown, acting for Coroner Norman Getman, Oneonta, announced a verdict of accidental death.  He was told the railing is less than two feet high.  Mr. Crounse, who had moved to the home only a few days ago, had resided in Cooperstown for 17 years.  He was employed by Otsego county highway department last spring and fall.  Mr. Crounse was a retired member of Cooperstown fire department.  He leaves his wife, the former Lucenia Follett, Middlefield, whom he married July 2, 1902; a son, George, Oaksville; three daughters, Mrs. Robert P. Jones, Mrs. Hugh Gregory, Gilbertsville, Mrs. Levi Rowe, Greene; and two grandchildren.

Attempted Suicide

Chenango American, August 16, 1860

We are called upon to chronicle a painful and distressing affair which occurred in the town of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], on Friday last.  Oscar Pike, a young man residing at Windsor, Broome Co., who has been absent some years, and has recently returned, became enamored of a young and pretty school mistress name Hyde, then teaching at that place, and, after a brief courtship, proposed marriage, and was accepted.  On Saturday previous to the attempted suicide, he took Miss Hyde home to her parents in Afton, near the settlement of Ayshire, and asked their consent to the nuptials, which was refused, mainly upon the ground, as we are informed, that the would be bridegroom was not a "professor of religion."  The young lady being of a proper age to act for herself, returned to Windsor with Mr. Pike, and consented to be married, the time being set for Thursday last.  The announcement was publicly made, groomsmen and bridesmaids selected, and "all went merry." Thursday, while Pike was absent, making arrangement for the forthcoming bridal, the parents of the young lady appeared at Windsor, and by appliances best known to themselves, induced her to return home with them.  Pike, on returning, and finding the bird flown, followed her to Afton, and requested an interview.  This was denied him by her parents, for some time.  He however prevailed so far that a door was partly opened, and the faithless maiden in trembling accents told him that she "didn't want anything more to do with him."  Without speaking a work, he walked out of doors, into the front yard, and placing a pistol to his head, deliberately shot himself. The ball entered his brain, making a serious wound, but not as yet fatal.  Hopes are entertained of his recovery.  He was allowed to lie upon the ground until the neighbors could be summoned, when he was conveyed some distance to a hotel.  Mr. Pike is represented as a talented young man, of correct habits, and is about 26 years of age.  He is a regular contributor to the New York Ledger and other periodicals.  He is connected with the U.S Navy, and is second mate of a man of war.  He was betrayed into this foolish act by the frenzy occasioned by the thought of the publicity which had been and would be given to the affair, his keen sensibilities being seriously affected by the idea that he might become a laughing stock.  He converses freely upon the subject and regrets his attempt upon his life  He says he "Must have been terribly excited or he should have made a better shot."  We learn that he has the sympathy of the whole neighborhood in which the semi-tragedy transpired.

Obituaries (May 16)

James Benjamin Cope

Died February 10, 1940, New Berlin Center, NY

Following a long illness James B. Cope died early Saturday night at his home near New Berlin Center [Chenango Co., NY].  The youngest son of James and Elizabeth Dixon Cope, he was born 75 years ago in Mersia, Canada.  A resident of this vicinity for the past 50 years, Mr. Cope was united in marriage with Josephine E. Housman of Gilbertsville, Dec. 8, 1896.  Her death occurred in May, 1926.  One son survives, Charles W. Cope of Sonyea and one daughter, Miss Hattie Cope, residing at home and who tenderly cared for her father through his long illness.  Several cousins in this vicinity also survive with a legion of friends.  Mr. Cope was engaged in agriculture throughout his lifetime.  Funeral services were held at the Dakin Funeral Home Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. Roger K. Powell, Baptist clergyman of New Berlin, officiating.  Burial was in Riverside cemetery at South New Berlin.

Howard D. Coon

Died April 14, 1935, Norwich, NY

Howard D. Coon, youngest son of the late Albert and Gertrude Crosby Coon, died suddenly at his home, 2 Academy street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], late Sunday.  Deceased was born in new Berlin, January 12, 1888.  For the past 20 years he had been a resident of this city. Two brothers survive, J. Foster Coon of Norwich and Edwin J. Coon of Morris. The funeral service was held Tuesday afternoon at 1:30 from the George J. Devine funeral home on South Broad street, Rev. Scott D. Clarke, pastor of the Broad Street M.E. church officiated. Burial was in Mt. Hope cemetery [Norwich, NY].

Elizabeth V. Cook

Died September 23, 1938, Norwich, NY

Mrs. Elizabeth V. Cook, aged 63 years, of 25 Berry street, died about 3:30 o'clock Friday morning at the Chenango Memorial Hospital. She was born June 23, 1875.  Besides her husband, Elvin G. Cook, deceased is survived by two nephews, Ralph and Guy Beckwith of Poughkeepsie, and one niece, Mrs. Myrtle Tucker of Pine Plain, N.Y.  Mrs. Cook was a member of the Calvary Baptist church.  Funeral services will be held Sunday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock from the Calvary Baptist church, Rev. Mickael Klinoff, pastor, officiating.  Interment will be made in Mt. Hope cemetery [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].

Carl D. Coe

Died July 5, 1937, Norwich, NY  

Serious burns suffered June 25 by Carl D. Coe caused by an explosion of gas while engaged at work on a pump at his home on the Chenango lake road, resulted in his death Monday afternoon at 4 o'clock at the Chenango Memorial Hospital.  Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon at 2:30 from the home of his father-in-law Charles J. Hart, 70 Mitchell street.  Rev. Lloyd S. Charters, rector of Emmanuel Episcopal church, will officiate. Burial will be made in Mt. Hope cemetery [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].  The unfortunate accident resulting in the death of Mr. Coe occurred in the evening while he and his son Walter J., were engaged in working on the pump. The son, in a five-foot pit, struck a match.  Gas of an unknown nature had accumulated and an explosion followed immediately. The father, standing at the brink of the driven well was the more seriously burned. The son, still a patient at the Chenango Memorial Hospital, remains in a serious condition.  Mr. Coe was the son of Mr. and Mrs. William C. Coe and was a native of Norwich where he was born February 25, 1888. Educated in the Norwich public schools he was for many years affiliated with his father in the livery and garage business in this city.  He was later engaged in railroading but for the past six years had been an employee of the Aldrich Transportation Company of this city.  He was a member of the Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen.  His son, injured with him, is an employee of the Charles G. Nash plumbing company.  Mr. Coe was extremely popular and leaves many friends who will extend deepest sympathy to his family in their bereavement.  Possessed of a happy disposition Mr Coe was quick to make friends and all are grieved over his untimely passing.  Surviving are his wife and two sons, Walter J., and Donald C. Coe; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. William C Coe, also one sister, Mrs. Marion Lunney of Cortland, and three brothers, Lester E. and Leroy B., of Norwich, and Charles of Flushing, L.I.

The funeral of Carl Coe was held from the home of Charles J. Hall, brother-in-law of the deceased, at 70 Mitchell St., Norwich, Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock., the Rev. Lloyd S. Charters, rector of Emmanuel Episcopal Chruch, officiating. Burial was at Mount Hope cemetery. The bearers were Frank Boyce, Clifford M. Sprague, Hartwell G. Sherman, M.R. Snow, Edward Clark and Carl T. Snover, all fellow workmen of the deceased. The attendance was large, and there were many floral tributes.

Death Notices

Chenango Union, December 6, 1894

FOSGATE:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 28, 1894, Mrs. Bertha Fosgate, aged 31 years.

BENEDICT:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 1, 1894, Lucy A. [Benedict], infant daughter of Charles S. and Mary E. Benedict.

CRUMB:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 3, 1894, Florence A. [Crumb], daughter of Lucius and Harriet Crumb, aged 12 years 5 months.

MUNSON:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] December 5, 1894, Albert Earl [Munson], son of Uri B. and Mary A. Munson, aged 7 years 7 months 26 days.

FEEHAN:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 1, 1894, Mr. William Feehan, age 60 years.

SHAW:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 28, 1894, Mr. Clarence E. Shaw, aged 23 years.

The Chenango Canal

The Chenango Canal

by Marjorie Bingham

Norwich Sun, March 14, 1931

The antiquity of canals is very great, dating back as far as six hundred years before the Christian era.  However, the history of American canal navigation does not extend very far back.   The Erie canal was the first work of importance completed and soon after work was undertaken, the citizens of Chenango valley suggested expedients for forming a canal junction with the Erie.

In November 1823, ten years before its construction was authorized the following reference to it appeared in the Oxford Gazette:

"Few counties can approach the Erie canal with so much ease and facility as Chenango, that are situated so far from it. We may therefore justly consider Chenango as destined, at some future period, to become an important branch of that vast inland navigation which secures to New York a proud pre-eminence among states of the union.  The Chenango river can be made boatable to its source, and by a short canal, the expense of which would be comparatively trifling, may be united with the waters of the Oneida creek, which leads directly to the Erie canal.  This has been pronounced by competent judges practicable and safe:  and at no distant day will engage the attention of our enterprising citizens."

In 1824, John F. Hubbard, member of the assembly from Chenango, presented a petition to the legislature setting forth the views and wishes of the community.  The committee to whom it was referred made a favorable report, but it was not acted upon.

In 1825, a survey was made by direction of the legislature, and the following year a bill for the construction of the canal was introduced but the legislature fearing the survey had not been made with sufficient accuracy, rejected it.

In 1826, the residents of Chenango valley at their own expense employed an engineer from Utica to survey a route through the valley connecting with the Erie, and to make an estimate of the cost of its construction, but he was suddenly taken ill at Norwich and died before the survey was completed.

In 1827 a bill passed the assembly, but was rejected by the senate.  During the summer of that year the citizens at great expense procured another survey.  In 1828 a bill for its construction was again passed by the assembly and was a second time rejected by the senate.

In 1829 an act was passed by the legislature authorizing the canal commission to survey the route and commence work upon it, if upon examination it was certain that there was an adequate supply of water; that the cost of construction would not exceed one million dollars; and that when completed it would produce to the state in connection with the increased tolls on the Erie canal, for the first ten years after it construction, tolls equaling in amount the interest on its cost together with the cost of repairs and the expense of attendance.

January 21, 1830 the commission made an elaborate but adverse report, which states that an adequate supply of water might be procured by a resort of reservoirs for the summit level, without taking any of the waters of Oriskany and Sauquoit creeks; that the cost would exceed one million dollars and that it would not produce tolls equal to the interest of its cost and the expense of repairs and superintendence, or of either of them.

During the four succeeding years of legislative inactivity Hon. John F. Hubbard did not allow the project to lose interest, but composed every argument in favor of the immediate construction of the canal.  On Feb. 23, 1833 the legislature authorized the construction of a canal from Utica to Binghamton.  Work was commenced in July 1834 and was completed October, 1836.

Various history books on Chenango county differ as to the actual cost of construction but a statement was made in "Messages from the Governor," by William l. Marcy, to the fact that Chenango canal cost about $2,250,000.  Smith's history of Chenango county stated that the engineers estimate was $1,960,450, and that of the contractors was $1,859,849.

"It is true the cost of the canal almost doubled the original estimates, but what of that?" Hiram C. Clark said, "In the end it has enriched all southern New York and given an impetus to enterprise in the Chenango valley, which would never have been attained without it.  The canal undertakings in the state, begun by Clinton, were the forerunners of the steamboats and railroads on this continent. The general utility or public expediency of works of internal improvement are not to be determined wholly by the amount of annual tolls they will yield, but it is necessary to look at the indirect advantages, such as increased value of land, the increased profits of other work connected with or affected by the ones proposed."

The canal was 97 miles long, 40 feet wide at the top and 28 at the bottom and was 4 feet deep.  There were 114 locks, each 90 by 15 feet.  There was 1,015 1-3 feet of lockage.  The greatest lift was 13 feet and the lowest was 5 feet.  It was supplied by the Chenango river and six reservoirs, Madison brook, Woodman's pond, Leland's pond, Bradley's brook, Hatch's lake, and Eaton brook reservoir.

Both the commencement and the completion of this great work occasioned rejoicing along its route and was the subject of elaborate celebrations.  For years it continued to be a great convenience to the section, but the revenues failed to meet the rising expense and it soon became a leech upon the public treasury.

Toll charges from 1833 to 1858 averaged from $940 to $21,444 per year.  The gross amount of income for tolls and other sources for the year ending the 30th of September 1876 was:  Gross income $3,717.38 and deficiencies $4,602.03.  The year had been one of disaster to the boatmen and to all others engaged in the navigation of canals.  In addition to the great depression in every branch of labor, there was a great amount of competition between railroad lines which directed trade from the canals.  It was soon abandoned after forty years of service.

The report of the commissioner on lateral canals was presented to the assembly on the 19th of January 1877 and the commission recommended the sale or other deposition of the Chenango canal.

Obituaries (May 14)

Minnie (Hooker) Chesebrough

Died November 7, 1930, Edmeston, NY

Minnie Hooker Chesebrough, daughter of the late Hiram C. and Katherine Piper Hooker, was born in South Edmeston [Otsego Co., NY] September 28, 1862 and died at her home on Friday, November 7, 1930, after a long and painful illness, borne with a fortitude and patience which reflected her true character.  For the past two months she has been confined to her bed, rapidly failing until she fell into a long and peaceful rest last Friday.  Mrs. Chesebrough lived her entire life in this locality receiving her early education in the public school at South Edmeston and New Berlin and later attending the Whitestown Seminary.  On January 10, 1883 she was united in marriage with Clarence Henry Chesebrough at South Edmeston.  One daughter, Florence J., was born to them.  Mrs. Chesebrough was a member of the First Baptist church of this village and until ill health prevented, took a very active part in all its affairs. She taught a class of young girls, now grown to womanhood, who revere and love the memory of her kindly, sincere guidance and upright teachings.  Her unselfish and untiring efforts for the comfort and happiness of others made a place in their hearts which can never be filled. The funeral was held Monday afternoon from her late home, and was conducted by the Rev. D.H. Woodward of South New Berlin, her former pastor.  Interment was made in Union Cemetery.  There survive the husband and daughter above mentioned, to whom the sincere sympathy of the community is extended; a sister, Mr.s E.N. Morgan of South New Berlin; and a brother, Leslie Hooker of San Mateo, Florida.

Jerry C. Collins

Died December 4, 1940, Norwich, NY

Jerry C. Collins, well-known Norwich citizen, died at his home 59 Rexford street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], about midnight, following a brief illness.  Mr. Collins was born in Ireland Dec. 18, 1893, and came to the United States and to Norwich when 11 years of age.  He had been a resident of this city for 35 years. The deceased was a son of John Collins and the late Mary Barrett Collins.  His untimely death will be keenly regretted by a wide circle of friends.  Mr. Collins had been engaged in the automobile business for about 28 years.  He first began this vocation under Charles H. Latham and was the first paid fireman in the Norwich department.  He drove the first motor chemical this city ever owned.  Jerry Collins was an expert automobile mechanic and his services were always in great demand when owners needed someone to look at their cars.  In recent years Mr. Collins had been a partner in the firm of Collins & Murphy, operators of the Nash Auto Sales and garage on American avenue. The deceased was a member of Norwich council, 211, Knights of Columbus, and Norwich lodge, 1222, B.P.O. Elks.  He was also a member of the Holy Name Society of St. Paul's church, the A.O.H. and the Maydole Hose Company.  Mr. Collins was united in marriage in 1917 with Mae L. Ganley, who survives with one son, Jerry C. Collins, Jr.., student at St. Bonaventure; his father, John Collins; two brothers, John Collins, Jr., of Syracuse and Patrick Collins of Frankfort, also one niece and four nephews. Another son Charles, also a student at St. Bonaventure, died November 8, 1939.  Funeral arrangements await the arrival of the son who is on his way here from St Bonaventure college, but services are to be held at the late home on Rexford street.

Death Notices

Chenango American, July 19, 1860

In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., Miss Catharine M. Clark, in the 21st year of her age.

In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th isn't., Mr. D.L. Davis, aged 58 years.

Chenango American, July 26, 1860

At Page Brook, in this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d inst., Mrs. Sara Carter, aged 64 years.

At Page Brook [Chenango Co., NY], on the 20th inst., Epharaim E. Gardner, aged 79 years.

In Owego [Tioga Co., NY], on the 19th inst., Mrs. Melissa Markham.

Marriages (May 13)

Chapin - Mety

Married January 1944

New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mr. and Mrs. Elwyn Chapin have received announcement of the marriage of their son, S/Sgt. Harlem Chapin and Miss Margaret Mety, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles P. Mety of Denver, Colo. The ceremony was performed at St. Barnabas Episcopal church with the Rev. Brady officiating. A reception followed the ceremony at the Hotel Olin for relatives and friends. The couple is residing at 1080 Logan avenue, Denver.

Figary - Woodworth

Married January 12, 1924

Miss Viola M. Woodworth, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Woodworth of Maydole street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], and Donald F Figary, son of Mr. and Mrs. Myron Figary of Taylor avenue, were united in marriage Saturday evening at the home of J. Roberts, pastor of the Sheldon street church. The bride is a student at Norwich high school and the groom is a well known local young man. They will reside at 15 Maydole street.

Christison - Crandall

Married January 25, 1943

North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mr. and Mrs. Lewis M. Crandall of North Norwich announce the marriage of their daughter, Miss Betty Jane [Crandall] to Corp. Wilbert Christison of Schenectady, January 25, at 6:30 p.m. in Schenectady.  Corp. Christison and his bride arrived in North Norwich Tuesday and were dinner guests Wednesday night at the home of Mrs. Everett Adams in Norwich. The affair was also a farewell party in honor of Junior Crandall who left this week for training as an air cadet in Tennessee.  Mr. Crandall has been employed at the W.J. Mein Company in Norwich and also at the Norwich Pharmacal Company.  On the 28th Corp. and Mrs. Christison were tendered a reception at the home of his parents in Schenectady.  He returned to camp January 29.  Mrs. Christison is now residing at 917 Vischer avenue, Schenectady.

Chapin - Parker

Married October 1942

New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY]:  St. Andrew church was the scene of a beautiful autumn wedding Saturday evening at 8:15 o'clock, when Miss Frances Louise Parker, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Eri Parker of Pittsfield, became the bride of Robert Lowe Chapin, son of Ray Chapin and the late Mrs. Chapin.  Rev. Nelson F. Parke, rector, performed the ceremony in a setting of bronze and yellow chrysanthemums against a background of autumn leaves.  proceeding the ceremony, Mrs. H.J. Miller of this place sang "O, Promise Me," accompanied at the organ by Harold Oakley.  Mr. Oakley also rendered the traditional wedding marches.  Entering the church on the arm of her brother, Ray Parker, who gave his sister in marriage, the bride was most attractive in a gown of white ververay satin, made with a basque, with sweetheart neckline and long sleeves which came to a point over the hands.  her full skirt ended in a long circular train and her hand rolled veil was caught to a tiara of satin flowers. She carried a shower bouquet of white roses and stephanotis.  Miss Janet Miller of this place was maid of honor.  Miss Miller were a gold velveray gown made on lines similar to the bride's. She wore a sequin Juliet cap which was trimmed with gilded flowers and carried an arm bouquet of bronze and yellow chrysanthemums.  Mrs. Ray Parker, sister-in-law of the bride, was attired in a green wool dress with brown accessories and wore a corsage of baby mums.  Mrs. Chapin, step-mother of the groom, was attired in blue with blue accessories and also wore a corsage of baby mums.  Donald Chapin, served his brother as best man and ushers were James Naas and Ivan Barkley of Pittsfield.  A reception followed at the home of the bride where the decorations were yellow and bronze chrysanthemums. The bride's table was centered by the wedding cake which was surrounded with white roses.  The young couple left for a short trip after which they will be home at the Chapin farm in Pittsfield. For traveling the bride wore autumn green with luggage tan accessories.  Mrs. Parker is a graduate of New Berlin central school.  Oneonta normal and the Utica School of Commerce. For some time she has been employed by the Bossert co. of Utica.  Mr. Parker is a graduate of the New Berlin central school and is engaged in farming.  Pre-nuptial events included a dinner at the Yahnindahsis Country Club, given by the bride's business associates at the Bossert co., two showers one given by the bride's sister, Mrs. Ray Chapin and one by Mrs. John Jones of New Hartford.  

Marriage Notices

Chenango American, July 19, 1860

In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., by Horace L. Barnes Esq., Mr. Charles Widger, to Miss Catharine C. White, both of Pharsalia.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., by Rev. Jas. D. Webster, Mr Albert Z. Taylor of Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Phebe E. Allen, of this town.

In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst. by Rev. L. Wright, Mr. Joseph U. Child, of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], to Mrs. Olive A. Eccleston, of Norwich.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th isn't., by Rev. H. Callahan, Mr. James O. Clarke, of Oxford to Louise M. Rouse, daughter of Dr. A. House, of Oxford.

In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., by Rev. W.R. Cobb, Mr Abram Smith, of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Loretta B. Johnson, of Sandford [Broome Co., NY].

In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., by Rev. E. Holroyd, Mr. Senaca B. Harrington, to Miss Corlista M. Scranton, both of Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY].

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst.,by Elder Jones, Mr Clark L. Pittsley, to Miss Hannah M. Davis, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Norwich School District No. 14

School District No. 14, Norwich, Chenango County, New York

Mrs. G.W. McNitt

Chenango Union, September 7, 1893

In writing the history of our School District, we labor under difficulties; especially, is this true of the earlier times. They evidently did  not think it necessary to keep a record, or perhaps they have been lost.  Consequently we have nothing to guide us but the memories of the older people, and but very few remain who can remember as far back as the "Old Log School house," or can tell us very much concerning the early settlers of the district.  

Among the earliest pioneers I find the names of David Newton, Mr. Fuller, Philetus Maine, Judge Rathburne, Abner Spencer, William Arnold, Sylvanus Parker, Zepheniah Holcomb, Andrew Webb, Charles Randall, Ezekiel Shippey, James Merithew, Mr. Everett, Bliss and King; and coming down to a later date, those of which some of you are more familiar--Peleg Arnold, Stephen Keyes, Robert Holcomb, Martin and Charles Webb, Arthur Davis, Nathan Parker, Philip Phetteplace, Mr. Harrington, Samuel and Oliver Jennison.  And while we mention the men, let us not forget the women who helped to make up the homes of that day--women of which any generation might feel proud, and whose very names are sacred:  Aunt Polly Parker, Aunt Elsie and Armenia Arnold, Maria Holcomb, Aunt Ruth Webb, Mrs. Stephen Keyes, Aunt Leafy and Mary Jennison.  Kindest hearts and brains of worth long shall live in story. 

The first school house we have any knowledge of in the district was a log one which stood at the foot of the hill on the right hand side of the road, between the farms then owned by William Arnold and Sylvanus Parker, now owned by Esek Phetteplace and Jonas Parker [in 1893].  I have learned the names of but two teachers who taught there; Mehitable Holcomb and William Arnold. The next school house was a frame building which stood on the same site this now occupies, having been built about the year 1820, or previous. We find the names of some of those early teachers in the following list:  Asa Sherwood, Amasa Ballou, Euphemia Griswold, John W. Longyear, George M. Smith, Daniel Arnold, John A. Randall, L.G. Pierce, Rosina Keyes, Eunice Keyes, Thomas Shelton, Abigail S. Wood, Merlin J. Ford, Joel Hendricks, Robert Burgess, J. Burlinham, Cynthia Shippey, Orinda Arnold, A.D. Gates, Isaac Stafford, H.B Willcox, M.P. Arnold, Cal. D. Holcomb, Frank W. Cornish, C. Day, Kate L. Holcomb, T.S. Ward, Ellen Winsor, Amanda Wells, Philurah, Amanda Melvina Pangburn, Sarah McGeorge, Orpha Eldridge, Walter B. Norton, Lydia Ballard, Nancy Hoag, M.W. Shippey, Lovina Phetteplace, George W. Adams.

This brings us down to 1861 and 1862, at the time of the civil war. Governor Flower said in his speech at Bainbridge:  "The $10,000,000 which we spend for schools every year is not lost when it is used to educate the boys and girls in the foundation principles of our government. When the confederates came up into Pennsylvania and surrounded Washington, before they were stopped at Gettysburg by my friend Slocum, they thought they had us. We hadn't thought much about the war before that.  We didn't think it was going to amount to much, but when our national capital was threatened the educated men of this government founded on educational principles began to ask why.  And then we drove the enemy back to Atlanta and from Atlanta to the sea. The school is the bulwark of the nation.  It took us through one great war, and if we continue to maintain it, it will make the State and country as firm as the rock on which it rests."

General Slocum also said, at the same time and place: "I owe my reputation to the brave men who fought in the ranks.  It is the common soldier who makes the reputation of the commander.  Grant, Meade, Hancock, and all the generals of the war, would never have earned their honored reputations but for the bravery of the soldiers who fought under them."  And can we not look back with pride, at this time, when we think that our school district furnished five brave men who went to make up the "rank and file?"

In looking over the old record we find among the scholars and teachers those who are filling all ranks in life--ministers, doctors, teachers, and one that went as a missionary, Miss Keyes.  Yes! we have a right to be proud of our school district and its record; and speaking of its records reminds me to mention the fact that for over thirty years Mr. Parker has kept our records, and so well and faithfully that future generations will not have a difficult task in writing our history.  Here we may find a lesson of patience and perseverance worthy of imitation.  We are proud of our record of the past; we are proud of our scholars of today.  As they leave our district to attend higher schools we find them far in advance of those of the same age.

But there is one thing in which we cannot take much pride in this day of progress and improvement, and that is our school grounds, which at present are overrun with berry bushes, thistles, etc. When Arbor Day was first instituted in 1889, a good beginning was made by planting of trees, thirteen in number, the most if not all of which are alive. Shall we not continue the good work begun?  Plow and grade the grounds so that they will be suitable for setting out plants and shrubs. But methinks I hear someone say this will be useless; they will not be long preserved.  Let me tell you what will preserve our school grounds.  Not long ago. while making an afternoon's visit, in viewing the grounds of the owner, I made this remark to him:  "What a thrifty rose bush you have here!"  "Yes," he answered, "I had this moved from the back yard last spring.  As long ago as I can remember it stood by the old house.  Mother was very fond of this bush, so I had it moved here that it might not be destroyed; " and as I looked at him, a man over seventy years of age, I thought--

"Men are only boys grown tall;

Hearts don't change much, after all"

Permit me to read to you this old poem which will further illustrate the spirit which will preserve our school grounds.

Woodman Spare That Tree

George Pope Morris

WOODMAN, spare that tree!
Touch not a single bough!
In youth it sheltered me,
And I ’ll protect it now.
’T was my forefather’s hand	5
That placed it near his cot;
There, woodman, let it stand,
Thy axe shall harm it not.
That old familiar tree,
Whose glory and renown	10
Are spread o’er land and sea—
And wouldst thou hew it down?
Woodman, forbear thy stroke!
Cut not its earth-bound ties;
Oh, spare that aged oak	15
Now towering to the skies!
When but an idle boy,
I sought its grateful shade;
In all their gushing joy
Here, too, my sisters played.	20
My mother kissed me here;
My father pressed my hand—
Forgive this foolish tear,
But let that old oak stand.
My heart-strings round thee cling,	25
Close as thy bark, old friend!
Here shall the wild-bird sing,
And still thy branches bend.
Old tree! the storm still brave!
And, woodman, leave the spot;	30
While I ’ve a hand to save,
Thy axe shall harm it not.

You need not fear but the same spirit which prompted that man to care for the rose bush and the petition to the woodmen to spare the tree will preserve every bush or tree that another father or grandfather will take the pains to plant on our school grounds. Everyone takes more interest in whatever he has a personal interest.  Let each of us see to it that we have a personal interest in this.  Make home and its surroundings beautiful and young people will not be in so great haste to leave it.