Vital Records (September 24)

Many friends throughout the County will be pained to learn of the death of Isaac Sterling, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], which occurred at the residence of his sister, Mrs. Patrick, in Gilbertsville [Otsego Co., NY], on Friday night last.  Deceased was for years a prominent citizen of Bainbridge, and enjoyed the confidence and esteem of the community.  In politics he was a Democrat, and frequently represented his town in the conventions of his party.  He has also represented the county in State conventions.  In all the relations of life he discharged his duties faithfully and conscientiously.  A friend in Bainbridge sent us the following brief obituary:  Isaac Sterling died at Gilbertsville, Otsego County, May 6th, 1881.  Mr. Sterling was born in the town of Butternuts, Otsego County, in 1821.  He engaged in farming for many years, and upon his removal to Unadilla Centre established a mercantile business which continued for two or three years, after which he moved to Unadilla, and for four or five years conducted a similar business at that place.  From Unadilla he moved to Bainbridge, about fifteen years ago.  In 1869 he was elected President of the village, and has held various other public positions, discharging every trust with fidelity.  He has been for several years a Vestryman of St. Peter's Church in Bainbridge; holding that position at the time of his death.  He was prominently connected with the Masonic order and was a life long Democrat.  The funeral obsequies took place on Monday, May 9th, at 1:30 p.m. from St. Peter's Church Bainbridge.  Many prominent persons from the surrounding towns were present.  Deceased leaves one child, seven years of age.  Mrs. Sterling died about two years ago.  [Chenango Union, May 12, 1881]

Death of Dr. Timothy M. Mann:  From the Sherburne News of last week, we gather the following facts relative to the sad and sudden death of this gentleman which occurred at his residence in Otselic [Chenango Co., NY] on Sunday afternoon the 20th ult.  It appears that the Doctor had taken a severe cold the week previous and was feeling quite ill on Sunday.  About noon he sent for his partner, Dr. Mason, who called about 2 p.m. and found him lying in bed suffering considerable pain attended by difficult breathing. At the request of Dr. Mann, Dr. Mason made an examination and found congestion of the left lower lung, and prepared some medicine which he left with directions how to take it.  However, knowing that Dr. Mann was acquainted with the medicine, he told him to take it as he pleased. Deceased remarked that he wanted to get about as soon as possible, and wanted to take enough to get the full effect of the medicine.  Dr. Mason then cautioned him against taking too large a dose. Before leaving, at Dr. Mann's request, Dr. Mason prepared some of Tilden's extract of Gelseminoum, a medicine which Dr. Mann was in the habit of taking, placed about sixty drops in a cup of water, and advised him to take it in teaspoon full doses, and after again cautioning about taking too large doses, took his leave.

After Dr. Mason had gone, it appears that Dr. Mann took about one-half of the preparation of gelseminum at one dose, and some little time after, began to experience the symptoms incidental to an overdose of gelseminum.  He than called to his wife who assisted him to bed and applied such remedies as he suggested, which were such as indicated that he was conscious of sinking under the effect of the gelseminum. Dr. Mason was again called, but on his arrival found him in a dying condition and life too nearly extinct to admit of the administering of any effectual remedy, and in a few moments afterwards he expired. As near as can be ascertained, about thirty drops of the gelseminum was taken, a quantity that under ordinary circumstances might not have proved fatal, but on the evening previous he had taken other remedies which had so weakened his constitution that he was unable to bear the extra amount.  

In his youth Dr. Mann attended school in Norwich, studied medicine with Dr. J.J. Wescott, and after being admitted to practice located At Columbus. About nine years ago he removed to Sherburne and followed the profession of dentistry with success. Early last fall he removed to Otselic where he formed a co-partnership and at the time of his death the firm had a very successful and lucrative practice.  Dr. Mann was a gentleman of mild, genial and unostentatious  manners and readily won numerous friends who sincerely mourn his sudden death. He was an honored member of the Masonic fraternity, and his remains were carried to Columbus and buried according to the rites of that Order.  he was also a member of the I.O.O.F., and the I.O.G.T.  He leaves a wife and one child who will receive the sympathies of a large circle of friends in their bereavement.  Coroner Lyman, of Sherburne held an inquest over the remains of the deceased, on the 22d ult. and the verdict of the jury was to the effect that deceased "came to is death by taking from his own hand too large a dose of medicine called Gelseminum (a sedative), he mistaking the quantity his system would safely bear, after having from his own hand taken too large a dose of morphine; that his death was accidental, and wholly without the fault or wrong of any person or persons soever."  Deceased was thirty-five years of age.  he will be remembered as the aeronaut who made a fine balloon ascension from the Fair Grounds in this village, three years ago last fall.   [Chenango Union, Mar. 2, 1876] 

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 12, 1881

Marriages

HOPSON - NEWTON:  At the Hotchkiss House, in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], May 4th, by Rev. L.W. Peck, Mr. Newman G. Hopson, to Miss Mary A. Newton, both of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

MULES - COONS:  In DeRuyter, May 4th, by Elder T. Fisher, Mr. Godfrey C. Mules, of DeRuyter, to Miss Mina E. Coon of Lincklaen [Chenango Co., NY].

THURSTON - WAIT:  At the residence of W.H. Cannon, in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., nY], May 2d, by Rev. D.N. Grummon, Mr. William Thruston, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], to Mrs. Susan Wait, of Bainbridge.

Vital Records (September 23)

A Caton (Steuben county) correspondent of the Corning Journal writes as follows of the death of Mrs. Patience B. Wescott, of that town, mother of James C. Wescott, of East Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:

The community are again shocked to learn the death of one of our oldest settlers, Patience B., wife of George Wescott, Sr., of Caton, N.Y., and daughter of Daniel Cook, of Portsmouth, R.I., who departed this life on Tuesday, October 17th, at 8 o'clock p.m., at the ripe old age of eighty-four years, surrounded by her children, one of whom having been telegraphed for from the east, arrived at the door of the house, just as his mother was breathing her last, but the spirit had departed before he entered the room--just too late for a last look in this life.

She was born at Portsmouth, R.I., August 23, 1792, and was married to Mr. George Wescott, then of that place, in 1812, having now passed sixty-four years with her bereaved husband.  Of the Wescotts, of whom there were five brothers, who moved to Norwich, Chenango County, in 1818; two, Horace and George, removed to Caton, Steuben County, in 1838, with teams (for roads were poor and railroads unthought of in those days) finally stopping in the wilderness of Caton, where the tall pines overtopped their new home; and here raised a large family of children, death having never before visited their home during their residence here.  The thick pine woods, with only here and there a rude opening have been opened until none of the younger generation can see in the fruit-covered hills and grain-clad valleys, the shadow of their fathers' toil and mothers' early privation, in producing the change.  It was aptly remarked by one of the neighbors at the funeral, "She was everybody's mother!"  There was a social, good cheer, the "good old New England" hospitality, which might always have been found at the residence of this respected old couple, all callers being welcome and the needy never turned away empty. Their home was indeed a home to the whole circle of their acquaintance, and while thirty-nine descendants, children, grand and great-grandchildren lose a mother, Caton loses her oldest lady resident, and her husband suffers a loss which cannot be fully expressed in words. The remains were consigned to the grave at Caton Centre, after an interesting and impressive service by the Rev. Mr. Sharp, at the Baptist Church of that place.  [Chenango Union, Norwich NY, Nov. 16, 1876]

Chenango Telegraph & Chronicle, Norwich, NY, January 16, 1867

Married

WILSON - WILCOX:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 1st , S.P. Wilson and Avaline Wilcox, all of Smyrna.

HOPKINS - WARNER:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 1st, by the Rev. W. Burnside, Orson R. Hopkins of Guilford and Jane Z. Warner of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

ORAIN - WOOD:  At Macon, Mo., Dec. 24th, 1866, by Rev. S.R. Rosboro, George H. Crain, Esq., Train dispatcher of N.M.R.R. formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] and Nellie M. Wood, of Macon.

Died

TALCOTT:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY] Jan. 9, Joshua Talcott, aged 98 years.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 2, 1876

Marriages

RYON - PELLET:  At Emmanuel Church, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on Monday afternoon, Feb. 28th, by Rev. D.E Loveridge, Mr. Dennis A. Ryon, of Bridgeport, Conn., to Miss Lilian Pellet, of Norwich.

BROWN - EVANS:  At the residence of the bride's father, Charles Evans, Esq., Feb. 23d, by Rev. J.G. Eckman, Mr. William A. Brown, of Preston [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Emma A. Evans, of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

FOX - CLARK:  At the M.E. Parsonage, in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], FEb. 26th, by Rev. E.W. Caswell, Mr. George W. Fox, of Susquehanna, Pa., to Miss Emeline S. Clark of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]

KENYON - PARKER:  In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], by W.R. Calkins, Esq., Mr. John M. Kenyon, of Woodstock, to Miss Elmore C. Parker, of Otselic.

LOWE - ROWLAND:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], Feb. 20th, by Rev. Mr. Brown, Mr. M.B. Lowe of Corry, Pa., to Miss Myrtle R. Rowland, of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

WARNER - McCULLOUGH:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 23d, by Rev. D.N. Grummon, Mr. Jacob Warner, to Miss Sarah McCullough, all of Bainbridge.

BENEDICK - HUFCUTT:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 13th, by Rev. A.B. Richardson, Mr. Edwin M. Benedick, to Miss Flora F. Hufcutt, both of Afton.

PEARSALL - FULLER:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 23d, by Rev. A.B. Richardson, Mr. Alvin D. Pearsall, to Miss Ella M. Fuller.

WATSON - PALMER:  At Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY], Mr. B.E. Watson, of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY] to Miss Alice Palmer.

Deaths

PATTERSON:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 25th, Mr. Lucius Patterson, aged 78 years.

COOK:  At the residence of her daughter, Miss Rebecca Lincoln, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 16th, Mrs. Betsey Cook, aged 83 years.

PHETTEPLACE:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 1st, of pneumonia, Mr. David Phetteplace, aged 71 years.

MANN:  Suddenly, in Otselic [Chenango Co., NY] Feb. 20th, Dr. Timothy M. Mann, aged 35 years.

ROBERTS:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY] (Page Brook), Feb. 22d, Elizabeth [Roberts], wife of Russell Roberts, aged 49 years.

FLANAGAN:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 19th, Maria J. [Flanagan] daughter of Bernard and Ann Flanagan, aged 5 years.

SESSIONS:  In Oakland, Cal., Dec. 27th, Mrs. Sessions, wife of Rev. John Sessions, for many years pastor of the Presbyterian Church in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], aged 77 years.

HAMMOND:  At his residence in Onondaga, N.Y., Feb. 19th, Mr. Benjamin P. Hammond, son of the late Dea. Benjamin Hammond, and brother of John Hammond, of this village, aged 82 years.

CROSBY:  In Viraqua, Wis., Feb. 11th, Mrs. Amanda Allen Crosby, daughter of Apollos Allen, a pioneer of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], and sister of Chester Allen of that town, aged 91 years, 3 months and 4 days.  She came with her father's family, from Gill, Mass. in 1798.  She died in full faith in Jesus Christ as her savior.

HICKS:  In Tavistock, Devonshire, England, Jan. 22d, Mrs. Elizabeth Hicks, aged 92 years.  Deceased was mother of the late John P. Hicks of this place [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY]

In our obituary column will be found the announcement of the death, at her home in England, of Mrs. Elizabeth Hicks, aged ninety-two years.  Many of our citizens will recollect the visit made to this village, a number of years since, by the venerable lady, accompanied by her son, the late John P. Hicks, with whose family she passed several months very pleasantly. when she returned to her native country.  While here, many agreeable acquaintances were made, and friendships formed, between the aged stranger and our towns people; and her death will cause a feeling of sadness among those who knew her best [Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, Mar. 2, 1876]

Vital Records (September 22)

 Preston [Chenango Co., NY]:  A little two year old daughter of Mr. George Coville, of Preston, sat down in a pail of hot water that stood on the floor of his residence on Saturday last, and was scaled terribly.  Death put an end to the sufferings of the little one on Sunday.  [Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, Nov. 16, 1876]

Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]:  In the death of Miss Lois Warner which occurred Monday at the home of William Cartledge, the last member of one of the old pioneer families of Bainbridge was removed.  Miss Warner had reached the advanced age of 78.  Her grandfather, Solomon Warner, was one of the early settlers of the town and one of the founders of St. Peter's Church. The funeral was held Wednesday at 3 o'clock at the home of William Cartledge.  [The Norwich Sun, Oct. 12, 1917]

The people of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], have another sensation.  On Sunday, the 5th inst., the body of an infant was discovered in the river near that village, a few feet from the shore, but was not taken out until Tuesday morning following.  Coroner Hand, of this village, was called on Tuesday, a jury summoned, and an inquest held.  From the evidence it appeared that the child, a female, was newly born, had lived after its birth, but had come to her death, as the jury found, "by reason of probably neglect, either intentional or accidental, on the part of some person or persons unknown to said jury, to properly secure the umbilical cord, in consequence of which said female infant died of hemorrhage at the time of its birth, and after having breathed and lived"--and that after her death she was placed in the Susquehanna River, by some person or persons unknown.  Suspicion rested upon an unmarried lady, a domestic in a family residing near where the body was found, as the probable guilty party; but the jury found, after a careful investigation of the matter, that "all persons, so far as revealed to them, or known from the evidence which they are able to obtain at present, should be entirely exonerated from any complicity in regard to the death of said female infant."  The reputation of the accused was shown to have been good previous to this, to her, most unfortunate affair, and the verdict of the jury should clear her from all suspicion.  There is evidently much feeling in the matter, in Afton and vicinity.  [Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, Nov. 16, 1876]

Utica Herald:  Orislany Falls: This afternoon, Nettie Hicks, aged nine years, youngest daughter of Warren D. Hicks, was instantly killed by engine no. 61 drawing a wild cat train of twenty loaded cars.  About 1:30 p.m. as Engineer Koon was rounding a curve, half a mile south of this village he saw on a trestle fifty yards ahead four young girls, Miss Julia Hazard, Lena Hazard, Helen and Nettie Hicks.  He whistled "down brakes" and reversed his engine hoping to check the speed of the train sufficiently to allow the girls to get across, but finding that impossible, shouted to them to jump into the stream.  Helen Hicks and Lena Hazard jumped and saved themselves.  Miss Julia Hazard made a brave and desperate effort to save Nettie Hicks by pulling her off the trestle but failed.  Julia then dropped through an opening into the stream, miraculously escaping death as the engine struck her head as she dropped taking off her hat and comb and making a slight scalp wound.  Little Nettie's head was completely severed form her body and crushed beyond recognition and her hand was cut off.  No possible blame can be attached to Engineer Koon or the train hands.  It was through their prompt efforts that the three girls escaped death.  Miss Hazard states they heard the whistle for the trestle some minutes before they attempted to cross, and that she advised the party not to go on until the train passed. The three others started and she followed. When about one-third the distance across, she heard the whistle for brakes and saw their perilous position, but it was too late.  Mr. and Mrs. hicks are at the Centennial, and as yet they know nothing of the sadness at their home.  [Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, Nov. 16, 1876]

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, November 16, 1876

Marriages

HALL - AVERY:  In Cazenovia [Madison Co., NY], Oct. 26th, by Rev. Dr. Torry, Mr. Charles M. Hall, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Mary L. Avery, of Cazenovia.

PAGE - TUCKEY:  In Brookfield [Madison Co., NY], Nov. 1st, by Rev. S. Salisbury, Mr. Wilson E. Page, of Brookfield, to Miss Olive E. Tuckey, of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY].

ROWLAND - DARLING:  In Freeport [Nassau Co., NY], Oct. 26th, by Rev. F.A. Hurdin, Mr. A.J. Rowland, of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss C.A. Darling, of Freeport.

Deaths

EDSON:  At Bayonne City, N.J., Nov. 11th, after a lingering illness, Mrs. Ada Wheeler [Edson], wife of Chauncey C. Edson, and daughter of J.B. Wheeler, Jr., formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] aged 27 years.  Her remains were brought to this place and the funeral took place of Tuesday.

DORCY:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 10th, Winnefred [Dorcy], wife of Peter E. Dorcy, aged 45 years.

HADCOX:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 12th, Mr. Wm. Hadcox, aged 41 years.

ARNOLD:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 9th, Mrs. Elcy Arnold, widow of William Arnold, aged 88 years, 7 months and 10 days.

MINER:  In Waterville [Oneida Co., NY], Nov. 12th, Mr. Henry P. Miner, aged 33 years and 5 months, son of Paul R. and Melissa Miner, and brother of Mrs. A.J. Beebe of this village.

SEELYE:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 10th, at the residence of her father, J.Y. Washburn, Antoinette [Seelye], wife of Andrew Seelye, of Thomaston, Conn., aged 31 years.

BENEDICT: In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 11th, Polly S. Benedict, aged 85 years.

OCKERMAN:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 1st, Mr. John Ockerman, aged 77 years.

JOSLYN:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 1st, Blanche [Joslyn] daughter of Charles Joslyn, aged 25 years.

WARNER:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 2d, Mrs. Percilla Warner, aged 76 years.

FOSTER:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 16th, Miss Electa Foster, formerly of Bainbridge, aged 54 years and 8 months.

ANDREWS:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 8th, Dea. Isaac Andrews, aged 73 years and 11 months.

HUNT:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 20th, Nettie J. [Hunt] daughter of Sylvester and Mary J. Hunt, aged 22 years.

MARTIN:  in Hartford, Washington County, N.Y., November 7th, Lydia Clark [Martin], widow of Mason Martin, late of Argyle, N.Y., aged 84 years 2 months and 19 days.

SARLE:  In Pittsfield [Otsego Co., NY], Oct. 28th, of cancer, Mr. Henry Sarle, in the 55th year of his age.

COVILLE:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 12th, Minnie [Coville], daughter of George and Ellen Coville, aged 1 year and 9 months.

Vitals (September 21)

Capt. Stead is Buried with Military Honors:  Full military honors were accorded the memory of Captain George Stead, aviator, at his funeral rites conducted Wednesday morning.  Services were held in Emmanuel Episcopal church at 10o'clock with Rev. L.S. Charters, rector, officiating. There was no singing at the solemn service which was largely attended by throngs of friends, members of fraternal organizations with which the deceased was affiliated, and relatives.  Members of the American Legion and the Knights Templar acted as an escort for the remains to Mt. Hope cemetery, where ex-service men fired a volley of shots over the flower-decked grave, and taps were sounded.  The casket was born by Aviator Joseph Bennett of Hammondsport, Born Arnold of Cortland, S. Aubrey Crumb, Grant J. Balcom and Clifford L. Moulton of Norwich and Arden M. Jones, formerly of this city, but now of Oneonta.  A fine testimonial to the love and affection held for Mr. Stead by his friends was shown in the wealth of beautiful flowers, a fine tribute to his standing in the community.  The floral offering was most profuse, many of the designs being works of art.  Present at the services to pay their last respects were Mr. H.H. Linn of Morris, whose husband was a victim of the same airplane crash which cost the life of Captain Stead, and Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gage of Morris.  Mr. Gage for several years served as private secretary to the late Mr. Linn.  Delegations representing the Elks, Masons, and American legion were also present in a body.  Both the Elks and Masons conducted brief services at the Breese Funeral home Tuesday night in memory of their late member.

West Davenport Murder

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, December 2, 1868

On Tuesday morning, November 24th, about 2 o'clock, the inhabitants of the quiet little village of West Davenport were startled from their repose by the discharge of a pistol, and upon proceeding to the spot where the firing took place, they were surprised to learn from E.B. Fero, Esq., (one of the leading citizens of the village) that his house had been entered by the burglars, who had inflicted upon him serious, if not dangerous injuries. The neighbors who had flocked to the house found Mr. Fero lying upon the floor of his kitchen, complaining of kicks ad bruises received about the back and stomach.  A light was procured and upon entering the bedroom usually occupied by Mr. Fero and his wife, the latter was found lying dead in her bed. Fero stated to the by standers that his house had been entered; that he was aroused from sleep by feeling a strange movement beneath his pillow, and throwing out his hand to ascertain the cause, it came in contact with a pistol held by the burglar, which he grasped, and in the struggle with the intruder the pistol was discharged, and from that it was supposed Mrs. Fero received her death wound. The husband stated that upon the flight of the burglar, he fired his revolver from the door for the purpose of sounding the alarm through the neighborhood.  As soon as possible Dr. Meigs Case, of Oneonta, was summoned to the scene of the tragedy that his well known surgical skill might be brought into requision.  Dr. Case describes the scene that met his eye upon entering the room as horrible to behold.

The victim of the murder, Mrs. Fero, was reclining upon her face, the bed clothes carefully drawn over the upper portion of her body, her hands resting upon her breast clutched together as sometimes seen in cases of painful cramps, and the pillows an other portions of the couch drenched in blood.  Upon examination, Dr. Case discovered that the bullet entered the cranium one inch above the left ear and passed transversely across the brain, lodging in the right half. The skull was twice broken. The principle fracture was on the right side of the head, extending forward and circularly eleven inches, the other was in the frontal region, beginning over the left eye and crossing the forehead, thence passing backward and terminating at a point opposite the right ear. Either of these fractures, which appear to have been made by some flat substance as a board, would have proved fatal.  After the discovery of the murder, it was reported that the supposed robbers had succeeded in making off with two or three hundred dollars, but the money was found in a memorandum book elsewhere and untouched.

Tuesday afternoon Coroner Maharg summoned a jury to investigate the circumstances attending the perpetration of this horrid crime. The community in whose midst this bloody affair has happened, regard the murder as one veiled in the deepest mystery. The ball extracted from the brain of Mrs. Fero fits the chambers of her husband's revolver; that robbers should have fractured the skull of the wife in such a manner while she was on the farther side of the bed, and that the husband should escape without showing upon his person only slight bruises, seems too strange for comprehension.

The blankets covering the victim were arranged with the same scrupulous care around the person as would be manifested preparatory for a cold winter's night, which seems inconsistent with Fero's story that he was hauled from the bed by clinging to the pistol of the burglar.  How a pistol short fired in a downward direction by a person standing over the bed, after entering the cranium should take an upward course was unintelligible to the jury.

The evidence adduced was deemed sufficient to cause the jury to bring in a unanimous verdict to the effect that Mrs. E.B. Fero came to her death from the effect of wounds and a pistol shot fired by her husband, E.B. Fero.  Upon which the Coroner issued a warrant for his apprehension.

Fero has heretofore been regarded by the community far around as a trustworthy man, having held the office of Justice of the Peace in his own town for a long time, and for many years had been, together with his wife, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Chruch, in which society he was looked upon as a leading and influential member.  Mrs. Fero was a woman of estimable character, and universally respected as a pattern of modesty and of the Christian virtues.  Mr. Fero was immediately arrested and taken before the Coroner and jury, and hear their verdict with composure.  His examination is to take place on Friday.  Oneonta independent, Nov. 27th.

Chenango Telegraph, December 2, 1868

Married

BLOSSOM - MARTIN:  In Bergen, N.J., November 24th, by Rev. Mr. Arudt, Everett E. Blossom, of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], and Frank Martin of the former place, and daughter of the late Crowel Martin, Esq., of New York.

SMART - MARTIN:  At the same time and place by the same, Thomas L. Smart of Bergen, and Annie T. Martin daughter of the late Crowel Martin, Esq., of New York.

WILLCOX - CALDWELL:  In Pern, Iowa, Nov. 19th, by Rev. G.R. Davis, Mr. H. Willcox, of Brownwille, Nebraska, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], and Annie H. Caldwell, of Inland, Iowa.

ORMSBY - ANTHONY:  At the home of the bride's father, in Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], November 24th, by S.S. Anthony, Esq., the bride's grandfather, Byron S. Ormsby, M.D. and Mary E. Anthony, only child of James B. Anthony. 

LAW - TINKER:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], November 22d, by Rev. A. Brown, Daniel P. Law, of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], and Frank Tinker, of Plymouth.

WARNER - SABIN:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], November 18th, at the bride's residence, by Rev. D.D. Brown, William D. Warner and Rzilda M. Sabin, both of Plymouth.

KETCHUM - McLAIN:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], November 4th, by Rev. Geo. P. Turnbul, John F. Ketchum of Colesville [Broome Co., NY] and M.A. McLain of Coventry.

SHAW - MINOR:  At the same time, by the same, Justus Shaw and Josephine E. Minor, both of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY].

BENNETT - ROUSE:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], November 23d, by Rev. Dr. Rogers, A.B. Bennett and Maggie B. Rouse, both of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

VAIL - TUTTLE:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 25th, by Rev. A.M. Bennett, Lester W. Vail, of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], and Emma Tuttle, of Sherburne.

JORALEMON - PHINNEY:  in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 24th, Egbert Joralemon, of Coyemans, Albany Co., and Sarah E. Phinney, of Bainbridge.

Died

NELSON:  In This village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], November 21st, John Nelson, aged 24 years.

MARTIN:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], November 17th, Luther Martin, aged 46 years.

RACE:  In Greene [Chenango Co., ,NY], November 19th, Mrs. Urania Race, aged 62 years and 8 months.

Obituaries (September 20)

Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]: The many friends of Rev. Joseph Hunter, formerly Rector of Christ's Church, are deeply saddened to hear the announcement of his death, after a very short illness, at his home in New York City. during his residence among us as Rector, and also in his pleasant summer visits, he endeared himself to all with whom he came in contact.  He leaves a wife and one son, who is a physician in St. Luke's Hospital.  [Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, Apr. 6, 1882]

Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY]:  The remains of Edward McKanna were brought to this village for interment Tuesday morning.  "El" will be remembered as the unfortunate fellow who fell from an apple tree a year and a half ago and who since that time was confined to his bed.  He was tenderly cared for at home until a few months ago, when he was removed to the Soldiers' and Sailors' Home at Bath, N.Y.  He wrote that there he received every attention he could wish for.  Poor "El" is gone and no words of ours can now relieve his suffering or ease his troubles.  They are ended.  [Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, Apr. 6, 1882]

Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY]:  John Anglum a former resident of this place, and brother of Mrs. David O'Connor, of North Norwich, met with a horrible death on Tuesday the 21st ult. near Amsterdam.  He was run over by the cars and literally ground to pieces and parts of his corpse were strewn along the track for over half a mile.  Samuel McKay a W.S.R.R. laborer, called upon Coroner Graves and left with him the naturalization papers of the man who was killed. They were issued October 23d, 1880, in Chenango County, by W. Merrifield, Deputy Clerk, and contain the name of "John Anglum, late of Tipperary in Ireland, at present of Earlville [Madison Co.] in the State of New York."  Mr. McKay found these papers in a satchel belonging to the missing man, who had left the key with him.  [Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, Apr. 6, 1882]

Believe Crash Victims Dead Before Airplane was Ablaze

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, July 9, 1937

Belief that Captain George Stead of this city [Norwich, NY, Chenango Co., NY], his employer, H.H. Linn of Morris [Otsego Co., NY] and Mrs. Dorothea Hansen of Endicott [Broome Co., NY], who lost their lives in an airplane accident at Morris airport Saturday afternoon, met death before the four-cabin passenger plane burst into flames, was expressed Tuesday by those who visited the scene of the wreckage Monday.  Those who viewed the ruins of the fatality are of the opinion that the victims were killed when the ship crashed to the ground just a moment before it burst into flames.

Captain Stead, Mr. Linn and Mrs. Hansen died instantly, but the latter's husband, Arthur Hansen, 34, escaped death and was taken to the Bassett Hospital at Cooperstown, where his condition is reported serious.  Mr. Hansen was badly burned, but hopes are held out for his recovery.  Both Mrs. Linn and Mrs. Stead were eye-witnesses to the accident that cost their husbands' lives.  Mrs. Stead, standing at the field to watch the take off, collapsed when the plane's wing tip hit a tree and the machine fell to earth and burst into flames. She was treated for shock at the Oneonta Hospital, but later came to her home in Norwich.  Mrs. Linn was driving from Morris to her home when she saw the take off and the crash.  She drove to the field, and then, because "There was nothing I could do" went on to her home.

Lee Brant, an Oneonta salesman, was an eye-witness to the fatal crash, and he gave this version of the accident to state police.  He was driving past the private Linn landing field about 2 o'clock, saw the plane flying low and stopped to watch it, as he thought it might be stunting.  He saw the nose go up suddenly and the ship drop off into a hollow at one side of the field, as though the pilot were trying to pick up speed.  Then a wing hit a small tree and the ship leaped cruelly.  It crashed about 100 feet from where the wing struck.  At the take off the machine was flying just about the top of the brush growth, it was said.  When it hit it burst into flames and the Oneonta man saw Mr. Hanson thrown from the blazing wreck.  He ran to his side and found him staring dazedly at the wreckage.  By this time, others attracted by the crash ran to the scene.  Persons tried valiantly to rescue the three pinned in the heap, but were driven back by the fierce heat.  Firemen from Morris were unable to get their apparatus near the scene until a tractor was pressed into service to haul it through the brush.  After investigating with state police, Coroner Norman W. Getman of Oneonta declared the death of Mrs. Hanson, Captain Stead and Mr. Linn accidental.

Friends related Tuesday that Captain Stead had had two ships burn under him prior to the one of Saturday. Ten or 12 years ago, just after he landed on his father's farm in Guilford, his ship burst into flames.  Neither he nor his brother Kenneth, who was with him at that time, suffered any injury.

In 1933 while flying over Mitchell field in an army plane, Captain Stead and another pilot had a thrilling experience when their plane burst into flames and they were forced to "bail out" over New Brunswick.  He was on active duty at Mitchel field at that time. 

Captain Stead was a close friend of Jack Wright, Utica aviator, and had been closely identified with aviation at the Norwich airport with the late Warren E. Eaton, gilder enthusiast.  Linn, a native of Washburn, Me, went to Morris in 1917, and subsequently established his trailer manufacturing business.  Several years ago he constructed a hangar and field in "Patrick's Hill" near his home to facilitate his use of airplanes in business trips.  He was 60 years old and vice president of the American Tractor company of Morris.  He owned four airplanes and made all his business trips in them.  His private field had one runway.  Funeral services for the late Mr. Linn were held from his home Tuesday afternoon at Morris.   

Services for Mrs. Hanson, whose father, Charles Stone, was superintendent of the Linn Tractor plant at Morris, were held at Morris Tuesday morning, and the body will be taken to Dexter, Me., for burial.  With her husband she had gone to Morris to visit her parents, and with him and Captain Stead had started to fly to Syracuse with Mr. Linn, who was going on business.  

The funeral of Captain Stead, private pilot for Mr. Linn since 1935, were held Wednesday morning at 10 o'clock in Emmanuel Episcopal church.   Mr. Hanson, for whom hopes are held for recovery, is a foreman in the plant of the International Business corporation at Endicott. 

John Somers of Buffalo, department of commerce inspector, tested the Hillside airport at Morris Sunday in an effort to determine the cause of the crash.  He made several landings on the field, after making a long inspection of the terrain from the air, but released no statement of his opinion and will report his finding to government officials. 

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 6, 1882

Deaths

CRAIN:  In Scranton, Pa. April 2d, Mrs. Harriet L. Crain, widow of the late Luther Crain, of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], aged 60 years.

MALLOY:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], March 29th, Mr. Edward Malloy, aged 52 years and 5 months.

WARNER:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], March 29th, Mr. Martin Warner, aged 61 years and 3 months.  He was a much respected citizen and leaves a widow and three children to mourn his loss. 

McKENNA:  At the Soldiers' Home in Bath, N.Y. March 27th, Mr. Edward McKenna, of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].  [See obit above.] 

BOSWORTH:  In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 9th, Mr. Timothy P. Bosworth, aged about 60 years. 

BAILEY:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], Mr. Bert Bailey, aged 35 years. 

BUTTON:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], March 24th, Mr. Blewit Button, aged 80 years, 1 month and 7 days.

GRISWOLD:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], March 21st, Mr. Erford Griswold, late of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], aged 76 years.

JOHNSON:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], March 24th, Mary A. [Johnson], wife of Henry Johnson, aged 46 years.

WILCOX:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], March 24th, Hannah [Wilcox], widow of the late Samue Wilcox, aged 69 years.

SMITH:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], March 21st, Miss Electa Smith, daughter of the late Dea. Israel Smith, aged 74 years.

LOTRIDGE:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland co., NY], March 27d, Mr. Malden Lotridge, aged 71 years.

FORD:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co., NY], March 22d Mr. Chauncey Ford, aged 79 years.

WILSON:  In Jackson, Mich, March 27th, Mrs. Miranda Wilson, widow of the late Joseph Wilson, of Greene [Chenango Co., NY] aged 70 years.

BREWER:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], March 23d, Sally [Brewer], wife of Ira Brewer, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co., NY] aged 73 years.

JEWETT:  In Auburn [Cayuga Co., NY], March 24th, Mr. James C. Jewett, aged 66 years, father of Irving C. Jewett of Norwich.  

Vital Records (September 19)

Stephen Prentice Turner, the oldest resident of this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], died Monday, December 24, 1900, at the residence of his son, Nelson J. Turner, at the advanced age of ninety-four years.  Mr. Turner was born in Gilbertsville, [Otsego Co., NY], and came to this town with his parents when seven years of age, which has since been his residence.  He was a thrifty and prosperous farmer, and commanded the universal respect of his fellow citizens.  He is survived by three sons, Simeon A., Richard N., and Nelson J., and two daughters, Mrs. Frances Williams and Mrs. Martha Post, who reside in Coventry  -- Oxford Times.  Deceased was grandfather of J.B. Turner of this village. [Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, December 29, 1900]

Died:  TURNER:  In Oxford, December 24, 1900, Stephen Prentice Turner, aged 94 years.

Margaret, wife of L. Gilbert Sanford, died at her home, the Park hotel in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Sunday morning after an illness of about twenty-four hours.  The cause of death was eclampsia.  Mrs. Sanford was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Martin O'Donnell of Norwich and was married to Mr. Sanford in 1888.  Besides the parents she is survived by the husband, a three-year-old daughter, two brothers and two sisters, Mrs. Murphy of Norwich, and Miss Ella O'Donnell.  Her age was thirty-six years, Funeral services were held from St. Joseph's church, Oxford, Wednesday morning at 10:30 o'clock.--Times  [Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, December 29, 1900]

Newton - Yeaw:  "Santa Claus" reindeer wore their wedding bells when they called at "The Evergreens," Christmas morning. They rang most joyously, when "Santa," through Rev. H.W.H. Watkins, gave Fred Newton the most valuable and precious gift he ever possessed, Miss Lulu Yeaw.  Mr. Newton is the son of Mrs. Ellen Grant, and Miss Lulu, the only child of one of the merchants of East Pharsalia.  Both are universal favorites with old and young.  All wish them bon voyage through life.  [Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, December 29, 1900]

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, Apr. 6, 1882

Married

TALBOTT - ROGERS:  In McDonough  [Chenango Co., NY], March 30th, by Rev. A.W. Barrows, Mr. M.M. Talbott, to Miss R.L. Rogers, both of Binghamton, N.Y.  

BURHYTE - CREGO:  In Columbus [Chenango Co., NY], March 29th, by Rev. E. McWarren, Mr. Augustus E. Burhyte of Brookfield [Madison Co., NY] to Miss Jennie A. Crego of Columbus.

HOLMES - MAINE:  In Lincklaen [Chenango Co., NY], March 23rd, by Rev. L. Lawton, Mr. Julius Holmes to Miss Eliza Maine, both of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, December 29, 1900

Died

HARRINGTON:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], December 18, 1900, Dr. S.H. Harrington, aged 71 years.

MORSE:  In White Store [Chenango Co., NY], December 25, 1900, William T. Morse, aged 83 years.

GRAVES:  In Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], December 25, 1900, George Graves.

HALLSTEAD:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], December 24, 1900, Mrs. T.P. Hallstead, aged 66 years.

MOREY:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], December 24, 1900, Mrs. Polly Morey, aged 84 years.

BELDIN:  In Holmesville [Chenango Co. NY], December 22, 1900, Mrs. Manley Beldin, aged 56 years.

BRASEE:  In Brooklyn, December 27, 1900, Mrs. Electa Brasee, aged 72 years, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

WARNER:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], December 21, 1900, Mrs. Elidia Warner, aged 64 years.

WATSON:  In Rochester, December 19, 1900, Mrs. Caroline Manning Watson, aged 74 years, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

Vital Records (September 18)

 SWEET - SKELLY:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], December 25, 1900, by Rev. C.E. Sweet, Wallace Sweet of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Daisy Skelly of Afton.  [Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, Dec. 29, 1900]

A very pretty home wedding occurred at the home of the bride's parents on South Main street [Afton, Chenango Co., NY] Tuesday, Dec. 25, 1900, being the marriage of Daisy M., the accomplished daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Skelly, to Wallace H. Sweet, a worthy and popular young man of our town.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. C.E. Sweet at high noon in the presence of a few near friends.  After a most bountiful repast Mr. and Mrs. Sweet were driven to the 1:40 train and left for a short wedding tour.  This popular young couple have the best wishes of a host of friends in this place.  [Afton Enterprise, Dec. 27, 1900]

Masonville [Delaware Co., NY]:  Clinton Willis, the eldest son of Frank Willis, died on Sunday.  He fell while playing at school and was injured internally, which resulted in his death.  This boy, who was about thirteen years of age, was very bright, and his pleasant and winning manner won for him many friends. The funeral was held from the Presbyterian church on Wednesday at 1 p.m., conducted by Rev. J.D. Cameron. The heart broken parents have the sympathy of the entire community. [Afton Enterprise, Dec. 27, 1900]

Perch Pond Hill:  Mrs. Angeline Allen, a former resident of this place who has resided in Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY] for the past few years, died December 21 and was brought here Sunday for burial.  The funeral was held at the residence of her brother, Geo. Hulburt. She has many relatives and friends in this place and will be greatly missed.  [Afton Enterprise, Dec. 27, 1900]

The funeral of Washington Pearsall was held on Friday at 2 p.m., in the Baptist church in Harpursville [Broome Co., NY], Rev. O.D. Moore officiating clergyman assisted by the Rev. Mr. Flint of Nineveh. The funeral was under the direction of J.A. Kark of Harpursville.  By the dealt of Mr. Pearsall an honored landmark has been removed form our midst.  He was born in April, 1830.  A good man is gone, one who will be greatly missed in religious meetings. The family have the sympathy of a large circle of friends.  [Afton Enterprise, Dec. 27, 1900]

Ex-Supervisor James M. Philips, a wealthy and philanthropic resident of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], died at his home in that town Tuesday morning of last week after a protracted illness.  His age was seventy-seven years.  He is survived by his widow, an adopted daughter having died about fifteen years ago. The funeral was held Thursday afternoon.  [Afton Enterprise, Dec. 27, 1900]

Mrs. Betsey A. Butler, after suffering for years with cancer died at her home about two miles east of Afton [Chenango Co., NY] on Tuesday, Dec. 18, 1900.  Her funeral was held Thursday, Dec. 20, Rev. B. B. Carruth officiating. Funeral director A.J. Holmes in charge; burial in East Side cemetery.  One son, Adelbert, survives, also two brothers, Levi and Lyman LeSuer.  [Afton Enterprise, Dec. 27, 1900]

Mrs. Benjamin Decker of West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], recently died, and her relatives were in doubt at first whether transition had really taken place or not, the physician applying the tests of death several days after to make sure. The reason for this precaution is explained by the Bainbridge Republican as follows:  The trance spoken of in last week's issue which Mrs. Benjamin Decker experienced some years ago occurred before her marriage. The supposed lifeless body was ready to be placed in the coffin which was in the same room.  When an attendant broke a bottle upon a stand nearby, and the pieces flew, one falling upon the forehead of Mrs. Decker with such force as to cut a gash and the blood began to flow. She revived soon after.  [Afton Enterprise, Dec. 27, 1900]

During the severe storm of last week a Franklin undertaker had to conduct a funeral with burial at Treadwell.  After the funeral the undertaker and the driver of the hearse had seven miles of stormy weather to face, and they began to consider how they might avoid it.  There was the interior of the hearse, and finding that the team could be driven through an opening in front they were soon enclosed comfortably within.  But the spectacle of a driverless hearse going through the country caused some apprehension and two or three efforts to stop it. At each attempt a deep sepulchral voice from within the hearse said "Let the horses go."  They were let go.  [Afton Enterprise, Dec. 27, 1900]

Mrs. Lina M., widow fo former Presiding Eloder T.P. Halstead, passed away at noon on Monday, Dec. 24th, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. C. E. Carrington, with whom she has lived for a number of years.  Mrs. Halstead was sixty-six years of age; she had been a great sufferer having been an invalid for the past sixteen years.  The funeral will be held at the residence of Mr. Carrington this afternoon at 2 o'clock the service to be conducted by Revs., C.B. Personeus of Sanitaria Springs and C.E. Sweet.  Interment in Glenwood [Afton Enterprise, Dec. 27, 1900]

Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]:  The death of Miss Lydia Warner occurred Friday morning, after a lingering illness at her home on Kirby street. The burial was in the Episcopal cemetery Monday afternoon, Rev Arthur Spalding officiating.  [Afton Enterprise, Dec. 27, 1900]

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, December 29, 1900

Married

BOND - TURK:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], December 24, 1900, by Rev. Wilson Treible, Horace R Bond to Norwich, and Miss Hattie E Turk of Sidney [Delaware Co., NY].

SLATER - MONROE:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], December 23, 1900, by Rev. Wilson Treible, Joseph A. Slater of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], and Miss Eva N. Monroe of East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY].

MARSHALL - STRATTON:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], December 22, 1900, by Rev. J.H. Littell, Frank Marshall and Miss Della May Stratton, both of Oxford.

BECKWITH - DAVIS:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], December 20, 1900, by Rev. F.W. Sessions, Henry Beckwith of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co., NY] and Miss Clara B. Davis of Pharsalia.

HOWE - ROSENDAHL:  In Jersey City [NJ], December 19, 1900, by Rev. Walter J. Swahfield, Charles W Howe, formerly of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Martha Rosendahl of Marion, Jersey City.

NEWTON - YEAW:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], December 25, 1900, by Rev. H.W.H. Watkins, Fred L. Newton and Miss Lulu A. Yeaw, both of East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY].

DAVIS - LOOMIS:  Near Smithville Centre [Chenango Co., NY], December 12, 1900, by Rev. J.O. Barber, Ernest A. Davis and Miss Edith M. Loomis, both of Smithville.

PATE - LUCAS:  In Willet [Cortland Co., NY], November 22, 1900, by Rev. D.D. Brown, Charles A. Pate and Miss Jennie Lucas, both of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

BEACH - DICKERSON:  In Oran [Onondaga Co., NY], December 25, 1900, by Rev. Silas Ball, M.R. Beach of Earlville [Madison Co., NY], and Miss J. Helena Dickerson of Oran.

BURRITT - DAVIS:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], December 25, 1900, by Rev. William A. Trow, Horatio Burritt of Spencerport [Monroe Co., NY], and Miss Anna Davis of Sherburne.

BROWN - HOWES:  In Cortland [Cortland Co., NY], December 21, 1900, Arthur Brown of South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], and Miss Mabel Howes of Cortland.

BOORING - CLARK:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], December 25, 1900, by Rev. C.H. Sackett, Charles A. Booring of Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY], and Miss Daisy E. Clark of Bainbridge.

DILGER - COUSE:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], December 25, 1900, John Dilger, of Jersey City [NJ], and Miss  Viola Couse of Binghamton, formerly of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]

SMITH - MURDOCK:  In Hamilton [Madison Co., NY], December 25, 1900, by Rev. Mr. Fairhead, Louis A. Smith of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Lucinda M. Murdock of Hamilton.

FERRIS - STEVER:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], December 25, 1900, by Rev. Arthur Spaulding, Elmer L. Ferris on Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY], and Miss Nellie Stever of Bainbridge.

ANDERSON - ROOD:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], December 26, 1900, by Rev. D.H. Sackett, Jay L. Anderson and Miss Helen M. Rood, both of Bainbridge.

Vital Records (September 17)

 Samuel Downing, Chenango Telegraph & Chronicle, Norwich, NY, February 27, 1867:  On Monday the 18th inst., Samuel Downing, the last of the Pensioners of the Revolution, died at his residence near Amsterdam [Montgomery Co] in this State [NY], at the ripe age of 105 years.  Thus all are gone of that noble old band who achieved our Independence. Their record is closed, but their memory shall endure forever.  Voting first for Washington and last for Lincoln (and never for Buchanan as has been falsely said) this patriot was ever true in his political life to the principals for which he had contended on the field of battle.  1776 and 1864--he was a devoted to his country at the last of these dates as at the first; he was always true to himself and to his country.  Is it not a noticeable coincidence that in the same week which under the reconstruction bill, marks what we believe will be the beginning of a new life to the Republic, the last survivor of those who gave it is original existence should pass away?

Katie Brooks, Chenango Telegraph & Chronicle, Norwich, NY, February 27, 1867:  Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY]:  Out little village has been filled with sorrow and gloom since Saturday evening, by a terrible catastrophe from a kerosene lamp.  It occurred at Chapel's hotel, while the proprietor was absent on business, and Mrs. Schapel lay in another room, sick on her bed.  Miss Katie Brooks, a very pleasant and amiable faced young lady, whose parents reside in Pharsalia, was sitting in a rocking chair, busily engaged on some crochet work when one of the rockers tilted the stand on which the lamp stood, and upset the lamp in her lap, exploding it.  She instantly flew to Mrs. Chapel's door, but the sick woman being unable to render her any assistance, directed her to the bar room, whither she rushed, while the flames enveloped the whole upper part of her person, and went up nearly to the top of the room.  Mr. Ralph Taylor and others tried to smother out the flames with their coats, but to little purpose.  But Mr. John Eaton tore off the clothing from the part of her person to which the burning was confined, and soon succeeded in quenching the fierce flames; not however, till death had done its work.  For, though everything was done, which the medical skill and the kindness of the village could suggest, she expired Sabbath evening at 10 o'clock, a little more than twenty-four hours after the sad event occurred.  Her parents were sent for immediately after the accident happened, and in a few hours were on the spot, only to look upon the poor, distorted face and tortured frame of the dear child of love, while utterly powerless to relieve her sufferings.  Our hearts bled for the parents and the daughter.  But the poor girl could communicate only an occasional work, that was fully rational, either to parents or others.  It was one great, overpowering agony.  We could only commend them in silent sorrow, to the All Sympathizing One for comfort and there leave them.  May we all learn the lessons of wisdom suggested by this painful event, in the prayer of, Yours very truly, C.B. 

James H. Davis, Chenango Telegraph & Chronicle, Norwich, NY, March 6, 1867:  Quite an unfortunate and singular accident, happened in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] on Saturday afternoon, last, at the funeral of James H. Davis, who had died a day or two previous.  The corpse had been laid out in an upper room of the house, and upon the day for the funeral, the undertaker found upon going to the premises that it would be impossible to get the coffin, with the body in it, down the stairs, so narrow was the passway, and insisted that the body and coffin should be carried down separately to a lower room.  In this he was overruled by those having particular charge of the matter, they deeming it perfectly safe to lower the body and coffin to the ground, from a small roof which covered the entrance way to the house.  The funeral services having been concluded, four men stepped out upon the roof, to receive the coffin, and lower it by means of ropes, when just they were about to do so the roof fell, precipitating them, together with the coffin and contents violently to the ground, a distance of about ten feet.  All of the men were more or less injured by the fall, and Mrs. Ames, who was standing in the doorway below was seriously injured by being hit with a portion of the roof.  In the fall the head piece of the coffin was broken and the body partially slid out.  It was badly bruised and decomposition having partially set in, presented a horrid and repulsive sight.  The coffin was soon fixed and placed in the outer box and carried to the grave.  We don't know, indeed we think that no blame for the accident attaches to anybody; but the advice of the undertaker, who is a thorough practical man should have been taken.

Chenango Telegraph & Chronicle, Norwich, NY, February 20, 1867

Married

GREENLEAF - DAVIS:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst., by Rev. D.D. Brown, Dr. L.D Greenleaf, of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY] and Elizabeth Davis of Plymouth.

TORRY - BROOKS:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], Feb. 9, 1867, by Rev. L.J. Ismond, Normon W. Torry, of Earlville, and Hellen A Brooks.

WILES - LIVERMORE:  In German [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 3, by Rev. J.W. Barr, David A. Wiles, of Willett [Cortland Co., NY],and Jane H. Livermore of German.

GILLILAN - PECK:  In German [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 5th, by the same, James R. Gilliland of German, and Jane E. Peck of the same place.

BROWN - SISSON:  In Columbus [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 10th, by A.L. Tuttle, Esq., Alvin H. Brown, of Boulder, Linn Co., Iowa and Mary A Sisson of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

KNOWLES - HUNTINGTON:  At Adrian, Michigan, Jan. 9th, Benjamin Knowles of the Society of Friends, Smyrna, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], and Mrs. Anna Huntington, of the former place.

Died

HOPKINS:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 10th, Mrs. Sarah M. Hopkins, wife of the late George K. Hopkins, aged 42 years.

PABODIE:  Suddenly, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 13th, Aldin Pabodie.

WARNER:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 30th, 1866, Asa Warner, aged seventy six years, nine months, and eight days, and for more than 50 years a subscriber to this paper.  Father rest from sin and sorrow / Death is o'er and life is won; / On thy way dawns no tomorrow / Rest! thine earthly race is run.

HALBERT:  In Butternuts [Otsego Co., NY], Feb. 8th, James [Halbert] son of Asa and Mary Halbert, in the 5th year of his age, Feb. 12th of Dyptheria, Eliza Myrick Halbert, and on the 13th, Mary [Halbert], wife of Asa Halbert.

WILLIAMS:  In Buffalo Oct. 22d, 1866, Mrs. Julia [Williams], wife of George Williams, aged 34 years.

RAYMOND:  In Elgin, Ill., Feb. 6th, after a painful and lingering illness, Augustin Raymond, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], aged 64 years.

Looking Backwards - Harvey-Lawton families

 Looking Backwards - Harvey - Lawton Families

by George T. Harvey

Norwich Sun, October 4, 1932

I have always been interested in the work of the pioneers who laid the foundation of the present day development of Chenango county [NY].  I have the keenest interest in the lives and labors of the early missionaries who braved the perils of the wilderness to preach and organize churches among the scattered groups of Indians and the early settlers, but none more so than John Calvin Harvey.  We can safely add his name to the list as a builder of character.

The early life of John Calvin Harvey is enshrouded in much obscurity, and the records of the churches he served as we have been able to obtain will show a most interesting career during the period of his labors in central Chenango county.

John Calvin Harvey was born near Stanford, Conn. He was a chaplain in the American Continental Army.  He and Jonathan M. Lawton, went as missionaries into what was called the Hair Lots, in central New York working with the Oneida Indians, sometime about [1780?], and named the place Pharsalia, a Biblical name.

The few settlers who had preceded him and settled around the sulphur springs in Pitcher, were mostly from New England, yet of various religious opinions, and was immediately accepted by all.  His religious zeal and gracious manners eminently fitted him to meet spiritual needs of the people of all classes and conditions.  His log cabin became the central point of his ministerial labors, which was located at the health giving springs and people from far and near came to him for advice.

Several years after these two manly men returned to Boston, Mass., and got together several families, including John H. Lawton, the son of Jonathan M. Lawton, who was born near Stanford, Conn., on October 8, 1757 and John Calvin Harvey (my great grandfather) who was born in Mass. in 1760 and with five families, twenty souls and five ox teams and carts, loaded with two dressed pigs and other provisions started back to Pharsalia in central New York (now Chenango county).

After crossing the Hudson river, near Troy N.Y. and following an old Indian trail, they came to a deep forest and swamp and were surrounded with howling, starving wolves.  To save themselves from death, they cast part of one of the dressed pigs over to the starving wolves.  These animals jumped at the meat with vengeance and the little group was saved.  They arrived back at the springs safely.

On October 2, 1797, a son was born to John Calvin Harvey, whose name was Noyce Harvey (my grandfather) and on June 10, 1799, a daughter was born to John H. Lawton who was named Vesta Lawton.  On the 16th of December, 1824, Noyes Harvey and Vesta Lawton were married at Pitcher Springs, N.Y. and on October 4, 1832, just one hundred years ago today [in 1932] a son was born to Noyes and Vesta Harvey, who was named Rodney A. Harvey (my father).  He was born in South Pitcher on the Brackle creek between Cincinnatus and Pharsalia, the location of the log cabin I am unable to find.

In 1854, Rodney A. Harvey married Miss Mary Brown, a young maiden of Pharsalia and was residing in McDonough, N.Y., up to 1860 when he enlisted in the army, joining the 89th New York Volunteers, serving nearly five years with Uncle Sam, wounded three times, died at Scranton, April 7, 1927.

Vital Records (September 16)

Mrs. Joshua Wilkins, Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, August 17, 1882:  Mrs. Joshua Wilkins of North Afton [Chenango Co., NY] whose severe illness we mentioned in our last issue, died last Wednesday.

Wilkins - Mudge, Oxford Times, April 27, 1886:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], April 25, 1886, by Rev. Dr. Bradford, Edward L. Wilkins of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY] to Estella S. Mudge of Oxford.

Lyman L. Wilkins, Oxford Times, March 4, 1890:  Lyman L. Wilkins departed this life Feb. 18, in the 80th year of his age.  HIs funeral was observed the 20th, Rev. Mr. Stone, of Auburn officiating.  The remains were laid to rest in Glenwood Cemetery in Afton [Chenango Co., NY].

Wilkins - Caswell, Oxford Times, February 14, 1893:  Charles F. Wilkins and Mrs. Melissa Caswell were made one, through matrimony, by Rev. Mr. Berry, of Afton January 26.

Mrs. Edward Brown, Afton Enterprise, March 9, 1899:  Mrs. Edward Brown died, Wednesday at her home in Coventry [Chenango Co., NY] aged 54 years.  The funeral was held Friday at the Union Valley M.E. church, Rev. C.H. Sackett officiating.  Burial was at Union Valley [West Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].

Augusta Dutton Eaton, Afton Enterprise, March 30, 1899:  The burial services of Mrs. Augusta Dutton Eaton were held at the residence of B.B. Hyde Saturday afternoon, March 25, conducted by Rev. Henry Hill, interment in Glenwood cemetery.  Mrs. Eaton died of pneumonia at her home in Willet, Cortland county, Thursday afternoon, aged 74 years.  Beside her husband she leaves three sons and a daughter.  S.D. and Warren Dutton brothers of the deceased are now the only remaining members of this family.  Mrs. Eaton formerly resided here [Afton, Chenango Co., NY] and was most highly esteemed.  

Melissa Wilkins, Afton Enterprise, November 21, 1901:  Mrs. Melissa Wilkins of North Afton [Chenango Co., NY] died at the home of her son, Charles, on Friday. The funeral was on Sunday from the home.  Rev. H.C. Merrill officiating, and interment was in Glenwood cemetery.  Mrs. Wilkins was nearly ninety-two years old, and retained her mental and bodily faculties perfectly until the last.  She had been a life-long member of the Baptist church of this place.  Her maiden name was Landers and she was form the east side of the river, hence had lived in this vicinity for nearly a century.  She was married to Lyman  Wilkins about sixty-eight years ago, having lived all that time in the old homestead. She was greatly beloved, and her death removes one of the landmarks of the community.

Oxford Press, November, 1901:  Wilkins Settlement Loses a Well known and Aged Resident:  Mrs. Melissa Wilkins, or as she was known throughout the vicinity, "Aunt Melissa," died Friday Morning Nov. 15, aged nearly 92 years. Nearly 70 years of her life had been passed on the farm where she died.  Her husband Lyman L. Wilkins died nearly 12 years since.  She leaves a son, Charles F., one grandson G.B. Wilkins and one granddaughter, Mrs.  Henry Smith.  Besides three great grandsons and one great granddaughter. She had been a member of the Baptist church at Afton for many years and the funeral service which was held at the house Sunday was conducted by her pastor, Rev. H.C. Merrill and was attended by a large concourse of friends.

Wilkins - Carpenter, Oxford Review-Times, August 18, 1916:  Alton Wilkins, son of Mr. and Mrs. G.B. Wilkins, and Miss Clara Carpenter of Union [Broome Co., NY], were married in that place, Wednesday, August 2nd.  

Charles Jenks, Afton Enterprise/Harpursville Budget, February 20, 1936:  Mrs. Ralph Wilkins and son, Maynard, of Wilkins Settlement were called to Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY] last week by the death of her father, Mrs. Charles Jenks.

Vital Records (September 18)

 Wilkins - Francisco, Oxford Times, October 10, 1860:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., by Rev. J.W. Hills, Mr. Silas D. Wilkins of Coventry to Miss Caroline A. Francisco of the former place.  

Toombs - Benedict, Bainbridge Republican, April 27, 1872:  Married, in Afton [Chenango Co., NY], April 24th, at the residence of the bride's mother, by Rev Mr. Jacobs, Mr. Jonas Toombs of Coventry, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Adalaide F. Benedict, of Norwich, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY].

Committed to the Toombs for life.  Rev. E.T. Jacobs joined Mr. Jonas Toombs and Adalaide F. Benedict in holy matrimony at Afton, on Wednesday last.  [Bainbridge Republican, May 4, 1872]

Landers - Kelley, Bainbridge Republican, September 7, 1872:  By Rev. B.B. Carruth on August 18th, Mr. Osborne E. Landers, to Miss Rhoda E. Kelley, both of Afton, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY].

Wood - Brown, Bainbridge Republican, September 28, 1872:  Married in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] Sept. 17, by Rev. C.F. Janes, Henry Wood to Miss Emma Brown, both of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY]

Joshua Wilkins, Bainbridge Republican, November 2, 1872:  In Wilkins Settlement [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 17th, Joshua L. Wilkins, aged 73 years.

Smith - Wilkins, Oxford Times, April 10, 1878:  In Afton, Mar. 28th by Rev. J. Jones, Mr. H. Henry Smith of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Nettie A. Wilkins of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY].

Ezra Wilkins, The Weekly Press, Afton, NY, July 20, 1880:  After a short illness from dropsy and other diseases, Mr. Ezra Wilkins departed this life on July 6th at the advanced age of 86 years.  The funeral was held from his residence on Thursday, the Rev. Mr. Williams of Afton officiating  The remains were deposited in the cemetery at North Afton.

Orlie Purdy, The Weekly Press, Afton, NY, July 20, 1880:  Tuesday afternoon, about 2 o'clock, as Dr. J.L. Purdy, of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], was returning home from a professional visit on what is called the "ridge road," accompanied by his little son, Orlie, aged about seven years, and as they were crossing the Hazelton bridge the horse (which was blind) was frightened by a passing bird which struck him on the ear, causing him to jump from the bridge, throwing the carriage and occupants clear over him.  Little Orlie struck on the top of is head on the stones in the bottom of the creek, a distance of about twelve feet, crushing the whole top of his skull, and his father struck on top of him.  He was immediately picked up and carried to the nearest house, where he lived until eleven o'clock the same evening.  Dr. Johnson and Dr. Wood, of Greene, were called, but could do nothing for him.  His father sustained no serious injury.  His parents are almost crazy over the terrible death of their only son, who was a very brilliant child and respect by all who knew him. the funeral was held at 1 p.m. Thursday, at the home of his parents.  Bainbridge Republican

Mrs. Wilkins, Chenango Union, August 17, 1882:  The funeral of Mrs. Wilkins was attended at her home, the residence of her son, Wallace Wilkins, on Thursday afternoon of last week.  Her death was sudden, being usually well until the evening previous to it.  Though quite an aged lady, she has never been idle, as the numerous bedquilts, spreads, and varied pieces of fancy work show what her busy fingers have done in the past few years.  But the Master she loved bade her "come up higher," and she rests from her labor.  Two sons resided in Rockford, Ill, one of them, Mr. Burr Wilkins, was present at her funeral.

Polly Storks, Chenango Union, August 17, 1882:  Coventryville [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. Polly Storks, eighty-four years of age, was buried in our cemetery on Sunday morning, the 6th inst.  Though formerly, since her youth, a resident here, she has since the death of her husband, Ethan Storks, for a number of years made her home with her daughter Mrs. Ichabod Seeley, of Oxford. She suffered greatly for a long time with a broken hip, and for some months past with dropsy, but she patiently waited while "daily drawing nearer to home, sweet home."  Services--Rev. W. Warner officiating--were held at this place in the Congregational church, of which she had been a member of sixty-three years.

Vital Records (September 14)

 David Wilkins, Bainbridge Republican, November 21, 1879:  David Wilkins, after a few day's illness, died at the residence of Mr. Lyman L. Wilkins, on Monday night last, at the advanced age of 82 years.  The funeral was held at the house on Wednesday, and the remains were deposited in the cemetery at North Afton [Chenango Co., NY].

Mrs. Davenport Wilkins, Bainbridge Republican, December 10, 1880:  The funeral service of Mrs. Davenport Wilkins, of German [Chenango Co., NY], was held at North Afton [Chenango Co., NY] on Tuesday of last week, and the remains were deposited in the cemetery at that place.  She died from the effects of typhoid pneumonia, being sick only a few days.  She was 72 years of age.

John Brown, Bainbridge Republican, December 10, 1880:  John Brown, an old resident of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], died a few days since from the effects of dropsy.  His funeral was held on Tuesday last, and the remains deposited in the cemetery at Coventry.

Wilkins - Handy, Broome Republican, February 24, 1869:  Married 17 February at Afton, NY [Chenango Co.] by Rev. Wm. W. Andrews, Wallace A. Wilkins to Janette M. Handy.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 10, 1871

Married

HULL - BROWN:  At the residence of the bride's father, in Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], May 2d, 1871, by Rev. E.W. Allen, Mr. Seth Hull of Margaretville, Del. Co., N.Y., to Miss Frances O. Brown, daughter of Charles D. Brown, Esq.

BOYD - HARRISON:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], April 26th, by Rev. Jas. C. Nightingale, Mr. Robert Boyd, to Miss Maggie J. Harrison, all of Smithville.

Ezra Wilkins, Bainbridge Republican, July 16, 1880:  Wilkins Settlement: After a short illness from the effects of dropsy and other diseases Ezra Wilkins departed this life on Tuesday, of last week, at the advanced age of 86 years, being in nearly the full possession of his mental faculties.  The funeral was held from his residence on Thursday, the Rev. William of Afton, officiating, and the remains were deposited in the cemetery at North Afton [Chenango Co., NY].

Fred C. Wilkins, Bainbridge Republican, October 16, 1919:  Fred C. Wilkins died at the hospital in Austin, Texas, Tuesday evening September 23 at the age of 53 years.  Mr. Wilkins was the son of Silas D. Wilkins and was born in Coventry, N.Y. [Chenango Co.,] Jan. 17, 1866, and has been a resident of Austin since 1897, and has been an employee of the H.&T.C. railroad since 1888.  He is survived by his widow, one daughter Miss Corrine and one sister Mrs. P.O. Endt of Huffsmith, Texas.  He also has relatives residing in Coventry and Bainbridge, Mrs. C.F. Bentley being one of his cousins.

Wilkins - Caswell, Afton Enterprise, February 2, 1893:  Married at the Baptist parsonage Jan. 26, by Rev. L.L. Rury, Mr. Charles Wilkins of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY] to Mrs. Celia Caswell, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY].

Amelia Butler, Afton Enterprise, March 15, 1934:  Mrs. J.B. Butler, 85, one of Afton's oldest residents, died at 4 o'clock Monday morning, March 12, 1934, at her home on Sand Street, following a long illness.

Afton Enterprise, March 22, 1934:  The late Mrs. J.B. Butler was born in the town of Sherburne, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY], Aug. 20, 1848.  She was one of three children born of Gilbert Prentice and his wife Fanny Harris.  Very young in life, Mrs. Butler was adopted out to Lyman Wilkins and his wife of Wilkins Settlement.  There she spent her childhood days.  It was at Mr. Wilkins house the all the neighbors used to gather to hear the Civil War news read from the papers. That was one of the duties that Mrs. Butler had to do.  At the age of 17, Mrs. Butler, then Amelia Wilkins was baptized in the Baptist church.  She and George Woods, later her husband, were both baptized in January, a hole having been cut in the ice in order to perform the ceremony.  After the war, in 1867, they were married.  From Wilkins Settlement they followed Horace Greeley's advice, "Go West, young man, go west." So in the spring of 1868, Mr. and Mrs. Woods went west to wrest their living from the prairie, leaving Afton by stage coach for Binghamton. They arrived in Iowa, where the early settlers had to build dugouts and sod houses.  It was in one of these dugouts that they lived 25 miles to any near neighbor.  More than once she has told of having to stand in the door of her dugout many times to protest a spring of water and even their very existence. There was also a camp of Sioux Indians, not five miles away, which five years before, had participated in the terrible Minnesota massacre.  It was in this dugout that her husband had to have his leg amputated as an after effect of the war. Then it was up to Mrs. Woods to provide for her family.  In spite of the strict school laws she was the first lady to secure a first class teacher's certificate in Plymouth County, Iowa.  Mr. and Mrs. Woods came back east again and settled in Afton.  In later years, Mrs. Woods opened a millinery shop in the old Hyde block later destroyed by fire.  Then came the big fire here in Afton, but that did not daunt her courage, even though she lost her stock in the fire.  she re-established her business and became well known both in this village and in Bainbridge where she later established the same trade.  In the month of January 1892, Mr Woods died leaving her a widow.  Eight years she remained a widow.  In April 1900, she was married to J.B. Butler of Canton, Pa.  From Afton Mrs. Butler moved to the latter place.  It was at this place that Mrs. Butler learned of her sister's whereabouts (although the sisters were separated from each other in childhood).  She wrote her sister a letter and she was very pleased to receive an answer from her.  It was to this place that she brought the writer of this and brought him up.  Mrs. Butler was at one time Junior vice President of the Department of Pennsylvania W.R.C.  She was also Past Regent of the Cunahunta Chapter D.A.R. and at different times a member of the W.C.T.U. and the Order of Good Templars. She was also the oldest in membership of the Afton Baptist Church. The funeral services were held from the home of the deceased on Thursday of last week. Rev. Lester D. Huxtable officiated assisted by Rev. Clifford E Webb.  Mrs. Harry Horton sang Mrs. Butler's favorite hymn "Sweet Hour of Prayer," accompanied by Kathleen Camp.  Mrs. Butler is survived by her sister Mrs. M.B. Sayre of Trenton, Mich. and a niece Nantie, a nephew, his wife and children.  A daughter Mrs. Carrie Pierce Cronin, Grandsons, Leon Pierce of Afton; Ivan Pierce of East Meredith, Granddaughters, Alura Pierce of Rockville Center, L.I.; Dorothy Pierce, Schuyler lake, and Sylvia Pierce of Afton, and one great-granddaughter, Annogene Pierce, child of Mr. and Mrs. Leon Pierce.  

Died

TICE:  In German [Chenango Co., NY], April 27th, Mr. Joseph Tice, aged 62 years. 

DAY:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], April 30th, Louisa [Day], daughter of James Day, aged 15 years. 

WILKINS:  At his residence, in German [Chenango Co., NY], April 19th, Rev. Noah D. Wilkins, in the 65th year of his age.

KING:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], April 27th, Mary Elizabeth [King], only child of Cornelius O. and Mary King, aged 13 years.

WOOD:  In South oxford [Chenango Co., NY], April 23d, Mrs. Anna E. Wood, aged 38 years.

COBINE:  In Ensley, Nervago Co., Mich., April 13th, Mr. Geo. W. Cobine, formerly of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

SHERWOOD:  in Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], April 29th, Mr. David Sherwood, aged 78 years, father of Mrs. James C. Bennett, of Norwich.

Reminiscences of early "Jericho" - 1925

 Reminiscences of Early "Jericho"

Afton Enterprise, April 16, 1925

As told by Mrs. Melissa Landers Wilkins, a daughter of Isaiah Landers, one of the early pioneers of Jericho [Bainbridge/Afton, Chenango Co., NY].  She would now [1925], if living, be over 115 years old.  She was drawn on hand-sled to school mornings most of the winter of 1815, when she was five years old, by an old Indian named Kunkerpot, one whom the other Indians considered their chief; at least he was the one who settled their differences.  They lived in the winter in wigwams in a dense woods back of the Landers home, which is the same house no long occupied by a son, Hial Landers, and then by his son, Willard Landers.

A huge fireplace was in the large old kitchen and half of the time, on cold winter evenings, she said, there would be from three to six or seven Indians and Squaws lying on the hearth in front of the fireplace with their feet to the fire, and the only way to get them to leave at the end of the evening was to treat them to apples and cider of which they were very fond, then they would file out saying, "Good night, good woman, good night, good man; good fire, warm much plenty."

One old Squaw, Lispat by name, was overly fond of the cider, and used to come in the daytime and beg for it till she was considered a nuisance.  so one day, when she came begging cider, Mrs. Landers gave her some from the bottom of the barrel that had yeast put in it to keep it sweet, and consequently what remained in the barrel was rather thick.  She drank it without any remark, but when she came again, she said to Mrs. Landers, "Good woman, I like some more your emptens and cider," She was also given to helping herself to anything she wished if she had the chance.

Isiah Landers, who by the way always went by the military title of "Major" had a daughter, Clara, who married John Stevens, and went to housekeeping on what has been known as the Carr farm.  One day in March, having workmen to provide for, she cooked a boiled dinner, taking it all up on a large pewter platter, setting it on a shelf in the pantry near the window and partly raising it to let the steam escape.  Upon returning to the kitchen she caught a glimpse of this squaw passing the corner of the house towards the window with a basket on her arm, she thought nothing of it; only wondered why she did not enter the house.  But when she went to place her platter on the table, she found not a scrap of her boiled dinner.  The old squaw had deftly slid it from the platter into her basket, and was on her way to her wigwam with it.

On a portion of Major Landers farm, later owned and occupied by his grandson, Daniel Landers, is an Indian burying ground.  I once saw a half bushel basket full of Indian arrow heads that were picked up on the site of that old burial place, and a short distance this side of it is a space of quite a size where, on many evenings in summer, a dense fog arises reaching from the river up across the road, and the Indians said that bad spirits came there to do evil to passing people, both whites and Indians, and that the Great spirit sent the fog to baffle their efforts.

There used to live near Major Landers, all alone in a little long house, a widow of a Revolutionary soldier, called "Granny Catlin," who was very punctual to attend church services when held in a nearby school house, always wearing her only good dress, a black bombazine.  She might once have been an excellent housewife, but it seems with age she had deteriorated in that respect.  As she had not attended church in several Sabbaths, a couple of the neighboring women went in to inquire if she was sick or what was the cause of her absence.  "La Suz," she replied "I've lost my bombazine dress and I can't come.  I can't find it anywhere, I fear it's stolen and I never can get another to wear to church."

Her bed, with a valance around it, stood in the one living room.  About a year after, the old lady came out to church wearing her bombazine.  After services, the women gathered around her inquiring where she found her dress.  "La Suz," she replied, "I'd never thought to look under the bed till tother day and there I found it good as ever."  Shortly after this, when she was between 90 and 100 years of age, the government granted her a pension of $8 per month.  When she received her first check she bought herself a gold ring and turkey-red calico for a dress.  Some of her neighbors thought that was not just the right thing for her to do and told her to that effect.  "La Suz," she replied, "I can't remember the time when I did'ent want a gold ring and a turkey-red dress and I just thought I would get 'em and take a little good of 'em before I died."

Mrs. Wilkins commenced to teach school in 1827, when she was 17 years of age.  In the winter time the scholars brought raw potatoes which at about 11 o'clock, she had to put in the ashes at the corner of the fireplace and cover with coals that they might be baked by noon, and if their corn bread, Johnny cake, or cold meat was frozen, she had to take it from their dinner baskets and lay it on the warm stone fireplace hearth, to thaw out to go with their potatoes.

Teachers then only had every other Saturday to themselves, boarding around the district during the week, and in one place where she taught, the girls of the neighborhood used, on those Saturday afternoons, to meet at the place where she would be for a visit with her.  A foolish fellow in the neighborhood thought it fine to come and sit with them, which pleased him much more than it did them.  So Mrs. Wilkins told the girls one day that if he ever came again they would have some fun, for she would ask him to marry her and see what he would say.

For all that this happened over a hundred years ago, I think girls were about the same as at present; fond of a joke, and sometimes get the joke turned on themselves, as in this case.  When he again came, she took a chair and sat down close to him and began talking with him for a little time, then leaning toward him, speaking in a confidential tone, she said:  "I am tired of teaching and would like to marry.  Will you marry me?"  "Boy ask Gal, not Gal ask Boy," he said.

No little girl of the present time would think of playing with a stone for a doll, as Mrs. Wilkins did when a child, more than a century ago.  She was in the habit of playing by the side of a brook that ran near the house, under a tree up which ran a wild grapevine.  In the edge of the water she spied this stone.  So she would take it out of the water and dry it in the sun, wrap it in a little blanket of her own, and there under the tree play with it, not daring to carry it to the house for fear the other children would laugh at it.  But one day old Kunkerpot surprised the "Little missy," as he always called her, with it and the next she knew he had whittled her out a fine wooden doll with black eyes and hair burned in, nice red lips and nose  colored with berry juice and for which her mother made a dress and "wasn't I happy with it," she said.

Many many years after, she dreamed of playing again by that brookside, and told her dream in the following lines:

Last night, in my slumbers I had a strange dream;

In my vision I wandered down by the stream

Where in childhood's fair morning I sported so free.

Nor dreamed one sorrow e'er waited for me.

I saw the wild grapes as they hung on the vine.

The ivy and woodbine around them entwined;

The very same bluebird sang in the elm tree,

The robbin and lark and the sweet chickadee.

My friends of my childhood were smiling around,

We gathered wild flowers, then sat on the ground;

We talked of past friendships with hearts light and free,

As the sweet little warblers that sang in the tree.

How dear to my heart was the brook and the grove,

The orchard and meadow, the friends that I loved

As I entered my home with what transport I see

My brothers and sisters all smiling at me.

My father sat smoking, old "Watch" by his side,

My mother looked happy as our wants she supplied;

On the old dining table a potpie did smoke;

We were all seated around it and then I awoke.

I awoke, and how sadly my heart seemed to say;

"My parents, the friends of my youth, where are they?"

That home, Oh, how lonely, many loved ones are gone,

In the cold grave they slumber never more to return.

Since earthly enjoyments are passing with time,

Let us place our affections on things more sublime,

And when, with life's sorrows and cares we are done.

We'll rest with our Saviour in the Heavenly home.

                                                                                                                     Mrs. Butler