Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, May 1875 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 20, 1875

Marriages

REDDEN - O'DONNELL:  At the residence of the clergyman in Cortland village [Cortland Co. NY] April 24th, by Rev. F.B. McLaughlin, Mr. Patrick Redden of Preston [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Ellen T. O'Donnell of Solon, Cortland Co. [NY].

FRANKLIN - WYCKOFF:  At the African M.E. Church in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], May 17th, by Rev. J.G. Rokman, Rev. Thomas E. Franklin, pastor of the church and member of the New York Conference to Miss Lottie M. Wyckoff, all of Norwich

The "little church around the corner," on Fair Street, was crowded to suffocation on Monday afternoon last, the bells of the various churches having summoned the people to witness the marriage ceremony to take place there at five o'clock, between Rev. Thomas E. Franklin, pastor of the church, and Miss Lottie E. Wyckoff.  The ceremony was gracefully performed by Rev. J.G. Eckman, Presiding Elder of the M.E. Church, after which Rev. S. Scoville, of the Congregational, and Rev. L.M.S. Haynes of the Baptist churches passed the contribution boxes among the audience for the purpose of raising means for defraying the expenses of the happy couple upon their wedding tour.  A committee had also been in waiting at the church during the afternoon to receive such presents as might be brought in, but we have not learned the amount of donations thus received.  At the conclusion of the exercises, a reception was given in the basement of the church, where refreshments were served, and which was participated in by a large number, both white and black. The bride and groom left for the south on the evening train, and they will attend the annual session of the African M.E. Conference at New York before their return. 

[See additional writeup below from the Chenango Telegraph]

Deaths

THOMPSON:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], May 13th, Mary A. [Thompson] wife of George K. Thompson and daughter of Dan T. Loomis, of Brisbin [Chenango Co. NY] aged 29 years.  The remains were taken to that place for interment.

CARY:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], May 13th, Mr. Palmer C. Cary, aged 77 years.

MURTAGH:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], May 19th, Esther [Murtagh] wife of Owen Murtagh, aged 27 years.

WAIT:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], May 11th, Carrie A. [Wait] wife of Ambrose Wait, and daughter of the late Morgan McNitt, aged 19 years, 9 months and 7 days.

FRANCOIS:  In Scranton, Pa., May 16th, of inflammation of the lungs, Louise V. [Francois] daughter of Alexander, Jr. and Mary Francois, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], aged 2 years 5 months and 9 days.  Her remains were brought to this place for interment.

FOOTE:  In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], March 2d, Minnie [Foote] daughter of Ezra Foote, aged 16 years.

FINCH:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], May 6th, Mrs. Lucretia Finch, aged 77 years and 9 months.

BROCKETT:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], May 10th, Mrs. Marion Brockett, aged 81 years.

CRANDALL:  In Chicago, May 1st, Chauncey D. [Crandall] son of Lieut. Chauncey and Bessie Crandall, aged 15 years, formerly of Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY].

Dr. Perkins of Unadilla Forks [Otsego Co. NY], died of smallpox, Saturday, May 1st.

News Item

Oxford, Chenango Co. NY:  The residences of the East Hill are somewhat exercised over the elopement of John E Rogers with his sister-in-law, which occurred on Thursday of last week.

Young Rogers for two years or more has been agent for the Midland Railroad at this station [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY] and occupied with his family, a wife and three children, the rooms fitted up in the depot for a residence.  His wife's sister, who is a daughter of William Gilbert of this town, has lived with him most of the time since he became station agent.

The neighbors have thought by actions that Rogers was paying too much attention to his sister-in-law, and the subject caused remarks some time ago.  On Thursday Rogers packed a sachet and went to Norwich via the Midland but returned on the D.L.&W. Road at noon and instead of taking the highway for home, struck out cross lots and was seen going over the hill in rear of the Bartle house on the east side of the river.  That was the last that has been seen of him in this vicinity, we believe.  Miss Gilbert was at her parents' residence, and Friday morning on going to her room it was found to be without an occupant, but a note in her handwriting was discovered, which stated that she was going away to work, the vehicle then being read to convey her away, and that her folks might have the clothes she left behind.

It is supposed that Rogers, after leaving this village, skulked around in the woods until nightfall and then went to Mr. Gilbert's residence where he was joined by his paramour, and the two then fled to the nearest station on the A.&E. Railway and are now miles from the scenes of their guilty acts. Rogers' accounts with the Railroad company are thought to be all straight.

Rogers' father and brother were engaged in building him a house on his father's farm, a few rods south of the Midland depot and the frame was raised on the day that he disappeared.

Rogers leaves behind a young wife and three small children, without means of support, and indignation at the cruel desertion is freely expressed in the neighborhood.  Oxford Times

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, May 20, 1875

Marriage

Monday was an exciting day for Zion - we mean Zion's African M.E. Church in Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].  It was then and there that Rev. Thomas E. Franklin drew the largest audience ever assembled within its walls and the like of which he will be fortunate if he ever draws again.  It had been given out on Sunday, that a wedding would take place at the above-named Church on Monday at 5 P.M., the happy parties being the worthy pastor above named and Miss Lottie E. Wycoff a general favorite with many of our oldest and best citizens.  Long before the time which had been announced for the ceremonies, the little church was crowded to a jam - young America in the shape of unruly children counted fully half the number - and still the people came until the anxious crowd extended to the sidewalk.  The officiating clergyman, Rev. Mr. Eckman, was early on the platform ready for duty. Rev. Mr. Haynes also came in and took a seat on the platform. There was a hush and a buzz as the tall form of Rev. Mr. Scoville elbowed his way through the crowd.  He soon found something practical to do and proposed that the hat be passed among the crowd for the purpose of making the pastor bridegroom a little donation. This was done and the result was about $15, which was in addition to a large number of presents for the bride which had been deposited in the basement of the church.  At about half past five o'clock carriages with the bridal party arrived and the crowd again gave way to allow the actors in the important ceremony to make their way to the platform.  Two bridesmaids and two groomsmen accompanied the matrimonial candidates. The bride was tall and graceful with more Grecian than African features.  She was attired in a lavender silk, of fine quality and made in a style that become the figure, and the exceeding good taste of not having a profusion of furbelows and trimming.  The groom was attired in the orthodox black incident to such occasions.  Rev. Mr. Eckman performed the ceremony after the manner of the M.E. Church and the happy pair were soon pronounced husband and wife and they received the hearty congratulations of friends and passed out of the church. The noisy children and boys did not cease their unmannerly confusion during the ceremony.  Neither the fact that they were in a church, the gravity of the ceremony or the solemnity of prayer could induce descent behavior and was evidence that there was a great lack of training somewhere.

After the ceremony at the church, there was a reception at the home of the bride, which was attended by a number of the old citizens.  There were more congratulations and more cake than at the church and the whole affair was pronounced one of the happiest of its kind for many a day.  In the evening the bride and groom took the cars for New York, where they will attend the conference which will decide whether Mr. Franklin returns to this charge for another year.

Deaths

DIED:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], April 25th, '75, after a short illness, Stephen S. Anthony, Esq. aged 79 years 4 months.

Mr. Anthony was one of the well-known and respected citizens of the county, and whose decease requires at our hands something more than a passing notice.  He was born at Portsmouth, Newport Co., Rhode Island, where he resided until he was thirty years of age.  Here he was twice elected to represent his fellow citizens in the Rhode Island Legislature, a trust which he faithfully performed.  Leaving Rhode Island he sought near a half century ago, a home in what was then the wilds of Chenango.  He located in Plymouth, and ever since has lived in that or the adjoining town of Smyrna.  In each he was honored by being elected by his townsmen to the important positions of Supervisor and Justice of the Peace, and in either station he was remarkable for the closeness with which he guarded the interests of his constituents.  Of Quaker origin he carried into all his dealings whither public or private those principles of equal and exact justice which particularly characterize that honest and highly respected class of people.

In politics he was originally a Whig, then believing with many others that the encroachments of the foreign element were too plainly and pointedly marked, he allied himself with the American party, and as such was elected Supervisor of Plymouth, when however, that party became the apologists for slavery he abandoned it and united his strength with the then growing Republican organization, a faith which he kept inviolate until his death.  He was for over forty years a regular patron and reader of the Telegraph.  He was known and respected by all, especially his neighbors and friends.  He was a firm temperance man, a consistent Christian, an honest man and a good citizen.

He leaves surviving him his wife, Eliza H. who accompanied him from Rhode Island, and four sons, James B., Henry C., Thomas E. and Timothy D., all grown to manhood and like their father enjoying the respect of the community.  Two daughters, the wives of Commissioner Luddington and Dr. Day preceded him to the spirit land.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, May 19, 1875

Death

HODGES:  April 18th, Barbara Kirkman Hodges widow of the late Edward D'Arcey Clifford of Ashfield and Castle Annesley County of Wexford, formerly of Dublin, aged 77 years, mother of Mrs. Wm. Lott, of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 20, 1875

Death

Lost at sea:  Among the passengers by the ill-fated steamship that was lost at sea, recently, was Dwight H. Kliuck, of Fruitport, Mich., formerly of Hamilton, N.Y. [Madison Co. NY].  Mr. Kliuck was treasurer of one of the Western railroad companies having its headquarters in Chicago and his proposed trip to Europe was for the purpose of negotiating some of the bonds of the company.  His age was about forty.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, May 22, 1875

Marriages

CALEY - COBB:  In Gilbertsville [Otsego Co. NY], on the 12th inst., by the Rev. J.B. Hughes, Mr. Herman L. Caley, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Alice Cobb, daughter of E.U. Cobb, Esq., of the former place.

Mr. Herman L. Caley and bride arrived in town Thursday morning.  So, it will be seen that our young friend has very sensibly and, we judge, fortunately, donned the robes of the Benedicts.  They were united in the holy bans at the residence of the bride's father in Gilbertsville on the 12th inst., and pass this way on their return from the wedding tour which they have been making through Pennsylvania, and to Buffalo, etc.  They make a fine-looking couple. We congratulate the happy pair and wish them an abundance of connubial felicity.

Amid the hearty congratulations of a host of friends and relations, Mr. A.H. Goodwin and Miss Nellie Beebe were married at the Episcopal Church, Wednesday evening.  The young couple are well known among Norwich people and the event was a noticeable feature and attracted together a very large concourse to witness the ceremony, which was very impressively performed.

Deaths

CASE:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], on the 17th inst., Mrs. Roby Case, aged 80 years.

FULLER:  In this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 17th, inst., Nettie [Fuller], daughter of Charles A. Fuller, Esq., aged 20 months.

AMES:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 20th inst., Mr. John Ames, aged 51 years.

MOORE:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], April 30th, Mr. Alanson Moore, aged 71 years.

WELCH:  In Middleport, Madison County [NY], on the 7th inst. Mr. Augustus Welch, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], aged 62 years.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, May 22, 1875

Deaths

RUCKTESHLER:  In Yaleville [Chenango Co. NY], May 1, 1875, of scarlet fever, Mary [Ruckteshler], daughter of john and Libbie Ruckteshler, aged 1 year 11 months and 22 days.

NASH:  In Yaleville [Chenango Co. NY], May 7, 1875, from effects of measles, Mamie [Nash] second child and only daughter of Martin and Lucinda Nash, aged 4 years and 11 months.

HEAD:  In Masonville [Delaware Co. NY], Sunday morning, May 16, 1875, Mrs. Henry Head, aged 35 years.

News Item

Remarkable Revelations of a Notorious Thief

The notorious Burr Deming, whose death we announced last week, say the Oxford Times, as occurring in Troy, while under arrest for stealing a horse and buggy from a Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] livery man, was an inmate of the County Poor House last summer.  He was taken to that institution from Norwich, where he suffered from chronic diarrhea and a severe attack of rheumatism, and supposing he was going to die, called one of the superintendents of the poor and said he had some revelations to make before he died, and would so if the superintendent would pledge himself as a man that no part of the confession should be made public while he lived.

The pledge was given, and Deming's statement was written down, from which we have been permitted to make the following extracts.

I was born in Litchfield Co., town of Sharon, in Connecticut.  In early life was in the theatre and circus business.  Traveled with Barnum seven years as Dr. Vancouver, the No-Haired Man of Vancouver's Island.  In the latter part of my life, I turned my attention to all kinds of rascality.  I have been married eight times and seven of my wives are now living.  I was sentenced to State Prison by Judge Boardman at Buffalo in 1870 for five years, for complicity with Dan Noble in a bond robbery of $196,000.  Served two years and four months in prison and was then pardoned out by Governor Hoffman.

Then I went to Canada, planned and helped to crack a bank in St. Catherines, was arrested and proved an alibi by one Mary Washburn, an accomplice, and was discharged.  A reward is offered for this robbery.  Part of the spoils of this robbery were secreted in Delaware county, in a particular spot.  I know all about the robbery of the United States mail of five bags of matter at Utica, in May last. Was in the Comstock robbery at Utica, but we did not get enough to buy a newspaper, besides what belonged to the Old Ladies' Home Fund.  I know about the Cooperstown murder.  Know who that hat belongs to; they did not arrest the right men at Norwich.

[A portion of the confession in relation to the murder is omitted for good reasons.  A gentleman named Edwards was murdered and robbed in his residence in Cooperstown and in their flight the murderers left a hat behind.]

There is no doubt but what the Hairless Man was a great rascal, but whether he was as great a one as his confession and his statements make out remains to be proved.  Deming recovered his health somewhat, and one day left the Poor House, after borrowing a watch of Wm. Shapley, promising to return in one week.  He went to Norwich and hired a livery rig, which he drove to Binghamton and sold. That was the last heard of him until his death in Troy.  He said his business in going to Norwich before he was sent to the Poor House, was to examine the banks there and if he had not been taken sick, they would have heard from him.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, May 1875 (continued)

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, May 13, 1875

Deaths

HENRY:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], May 6th, 1875, Stephen Henry, in the 85th year of his age.

FAUSETT:  At Rockwell's Mills [Chenango Co. NY], April 18th, Mr. William Fausett, aged 64 years.  Faithful hands have ceased to labor, / Weary feet have stopped to rest.

"That less is common does not make / My own less bitter, rather more; / Too common. Never morning were / To evening, but some heart did break.  R.E.F.

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DIXON:  In Westfield, Chautauqua County, N.Y., April 19th, 1875, centenary of Lexington and Concord.  Hon. Abram Dixon, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], aged 97 years.

His great grandfather came from the north of Ireland and settled in Pomfret, Conn, Where Putnam killed the wolf.

His grandfather, Archibald Dixon was born in Pomfret.  He married a Miss Miller, and settled in Bethlehem, Conn.  At about the commencement of the revolutionary war he moved to Rutland Vt.  Two of his sons, Joseph and David enlisted and served during the war, till its close in 1782.

Joseph having been mustered out at West Point, as lieutenant, in a few weeks married Miss Mercy Raymond, of Kent, Conn. and removed to Manchester, Vt, where most of his children were born.  In the year 1795, he removed with his family to Sherburne, and died in Smyrna, May 18, 1839 and was buried in the cemetery on Sherburne Hill.  He was familiarly known as "Major Dixon" and a Christian man of Sterling character.  After his death, his wife removed to her son Abram's, in Westfield and died there Oct. 4th, 1847, aged 86 years.  A letter written by her to one of her nieces in Smyrna is yet in existence, bearing date of February 11th, 1848.

Two of the sons, Raymond and Abram, were graduates of Yale college. The former became a clergyman and preached some years in Mexico, Oswego County, N.Y.  His last labors were in Michigan, as general agent for the Tract Society.

One of his sons, Joseph R. Dixon, graduated at Hamilton college, and is at present Editor and proprietor of the Cortland County Republican at Homer, N.Y.

Abram, having graduated at Yale college, in 1813 studied law and was for a year or more in the office and family of Judge Foot of Hamilton, who yet survives him.  They kept up correspondence till his death.

In 1817 he married Miss Caroline Pelton of Westmorland, Oneida County [NY] and removed to Westfield and practiced law.  From 1840 to 1844 he represented his people in the State Senate.  In 1868, he attended the semi-centenary of his class at New Haven.  In connection with this he made his last visit to our county in company with this eldest daughter, the only surviving child of his first wife, she having died September 10, 1837.

He married for his second wife Eliza Higgins, daughter of Gen. Holt of Buffalo, who died March 10, 1858, leaving a daughter and son.  The former married Edmund Whitney of Westfield.  The son, George Holt, served in the Union army of the war of the rebellion over three years. Enlisted as private and came out as captain.  Was afterwards complimented with a brevet captain.  He has resided for some time in Evansville, Indiana.  

A few weeks before his death, he wrote an article on his early recollections of Chenango County, to send to Judge Foot of New Haven, to be published in the Chenango Telegraph, but it had not been forwarded.

The Westfield Republican says, "In the death of Hon. Abram Dixon, the bar of Chautauqua County has lost one of its most honored members, and the people of Westfield have lost a citizen whose interests have been identified with them for the past 58 years, and his death has left a vacancy in our society which cannot be easily filled."

The members of his profession say, "In the death of our deceased brother we have lost a dear friend and a wise counsellor, one whose example through a long life of honest and honorable practice in the law, has been a sure and safe guide to the younger members of the profession, and that while we deplore his loss, we shall ever cherish and venerate his memory."

He retained his faculties to the last, and "In this last year says his Pastor, his heart's interests have been seen in conversation, and in his support of the Bible, against Tyndal and other skeptical scientists."

His favorite Hymn, "Rock of Ages" was sweetly sung at his funeral, which took place at Westfield, April 23d.  All places of business were closed during the hour of the funeral services.

______________________________

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 13, 1875

Deaths

In Felton, Delaware, May 4th, 1875, Mr. Aaron Carter, in his 84th year.  He was a brother of Heman and Orrin D. Carter, of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], and moved with the family to the town of Greene in 1802.

At Delphi Indiana, April 26th, in the 68th year of her age, Hannah [Beach], wife of the late Walter Beach, formerly of this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, May 15, 1875

Deaths

ABBOTT:  At the residence of his brother, near Center Village, Broome County [NY], May 11th, 1875, Rev. Pittson J. Abbott, pastor of the Presbyterian Church in Cannonsville, Delaware County [NY] in this 43d year of his age.

FOSTER:  In Brooklyn, Friday evening, May 7, 1875, of congestion of the brain, Maggie M. [Foster] only daughter of John K. and Lizzie Dygert Foster, aged 7 years and 10 months. The remains were taken to Ilion, N.Y. [Herkimer Co.]

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DIED:  At the residence of his son in Nineveh [Broome Co. NY] May 3d, 1875, Deason John Beers Peck in the 74th year of his age.

The deceased was born in Woodbury, Litchfield, Co. Conn. July 17, 1801, and was married to Miss Polly Percy, of the same town, September 25th, 1823.  In the year, 1827, he came to the town of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], where he resided a number of years.  He was converted in the great revival of 1832, which swept over this part of the State, reaching, it is said, nearly every family in Coventry.  He immediately united with the 2d Congregational Chruch in that town, became an earnest and zealous Christian worker, and was soon chosen one of the deacons of the Church.  In the spring of 1836 he removed to Triangle, Broome Co. [NY] identified himself with the Congregational Church there, and continued a member and officer of the same until his death.  His wife died in Triangle Oct. 18th, 1847.  In 1866 he went to Nineveh to live with his son, at whose house he died.  He had four children, two sons and two daughters. Three of them survive him, viz.:  Messrs. F.F. Peck, of Smithville Flats, R.T. Peck of Nineveh and Mrs. A.P. Doubleday, of Binghamton.

Deacon Peck was one of the noblest and best of men - a true Christian gentleman. The impressions he received in the old New England home of his childhood and the struggles and hardships he endured in settling in a new country in early manhood, combined to make him a man of well-defined principles, warm affection, and earnest in the discharge of duty.  As a citizen, friend and neighbor, he was faithful, kind and generous.  His heart and hand were ever open to the needy and suffering.  As a Christian he was devoted and conscientious.  His profession was no sinecure to him; when he gave himself to Christ the consecration was complete.  Where duty called, he was ever ready to go.  For more than forty years he lived to show the dept and sincerity of his religious convictions, by an humble and consistent life.  None ever doubted his piety, and in the large circle of his acquaintances everyone recognized in him the true Christian and reverenced him as the faithful follower of his Saviour.  His presence was a constant sunshine, and he was a welcome guest in every household, and had a warm place in every heart.  His life and character were of rare purity and loveliness.  He leaves the record of a well spent and beautiful life behind him.  His name will long be cherished as a precious household treasure.  His deeds are not recorded among those of the world's celebrated ones, but they are written in loving hearts where time cannot efface them.

He lived to honor and glorify God, and now God has exalted and glorified him.  He lived to bless his fellow men, and now that he is dead, multitudes rise up to call him blessed, and shed tears over his grave, weeping because they shall see his face no more.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, May 1875 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 13, 1875

Marriage

BURR - COCKET:  In Poolville [Madison Co. NY] April 17th, by Ason C Brooks, Esq., Mr. George W. Burr of Poolville to Mrs. Betsey J. Cocket of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

BAINES:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], May 11th, Jane [Baines], wife of Edward Baines, aged 24 years.

KENYON:  At Pitcher Springs [Chenango Co. NY], April 30th, Mrs. Elizabeth Kenyon widow fo the late Manson Kenyon.

STRATTON:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], April 29th, Nettie [Stratton] daughter of Charles E. and Marion . Stratton, aged 2 years 3 months and 13 days.

BACON:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], April 12th, Dell Vera [Bacon] youngest daughter of Hendrick and Lucinda Bacon, aged 1 year 1 month and 2 days.

Alfred Brockay died in Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] April 17th, aged 91-1/2 years.

Hon. Jason C. Osgood a prominent citizen of Troy [Rensselaer Co. NY] and a former resident of Chittenango [Madison Co. NY], died on the 28th ult.

The body of Charles Ludwig, formerly of Oneida [Madison Co. NY] was found in a grove in Geddes, Onondaga Co [NY] a few days since, by some boys.

A son of Sidney White, aged ten years of Windsor [Broome Co. NY], was crushed to death by logs on the log way of a sawmill on the 30th ult.

Thomas A. Sedgwick a well-known citizen of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY] died on Sunday last, aged 56 years.

______________________________

HICKS:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], May 6th, Mr. Gurdon Hicks, aged 75 years.

Colonel Gurdon Hicks:  Of him whose honored name heads this article, and whose loss we mourn, much good may be truthfully said.  Born in that land, then in reason called "the land of steady habits," whose early boast was that her offspring were "by no -?- parental defiled," he came to this County in 1810, aged eleven years, the youngest of four brothers, who with their parents and a sister settled on the turnpike south of the Collins Gate, and about two miles below the village of Norwich.  The family brought with them the wealth of New England culture, sobriety, integrity, industry, and prudent enterprise. They built the first sawmill on Gillmore Brook, at the foot of the gorge and helped on in many similar works.

When approaching manhood, Gurdon is remembered as having the blushness of health upon his cheek, with strong and willing muscles, ready for any feat of bold and manly daring offering itself, to which a kind, just and generous nature, were ever inciting him.  School children struggling through the drifting snows always found a sympathizing hand to lift now one, then another, on his brawny shoulder for a ride, and himself going before with shuffling feet, making a path for the smaller scholars to follow after.  Rudeness in the larger boys towards the smaller hid its ugly head when "good Gurdon" was near or within call.

Milton says, "The boy shows the man, as morning shows the day."  So in this instance.  Hence, and with his manly form, came the Colonel's great popularity with the earlier military.

Coming to years, to him came also the paternal acres.  Here he built a modest home, not spacious, but large enough to lodge content.  Here he lived "Free from the bonds of credit and of debt," passing peaceful years - the summer, watching the friendly flocks grazing upon the green hillsides - the winter, in care for them in the pleasant plain below.  Later came the generous kine, bringing golden gains. Hence diminishing coffers were replenished, and balances over common wants were used to educate well and start in useful life grateful sons and daughters.  Here, too, the patriot offered up his first-born son, a brave and noble boy, a willing sacrifice to the god of war.  Here a fond father burthened himself with woes unutterable for his country's weal and through meekness and a high sense of duty wrung repose from suffering.

Though few men have greater equanimity of soul than had Mr. Hicks, yet with greatly waning years, night vexing day more and more, and still, day vexing might not the less, the greatest fortitude yields, and no power can stay the soul.  It hastens whence to the pure in heart a glad escape is given.  It is so ordained.

So, this good man departed by the same way which the great and good have taken in all ages and under all conditions, on Thursday, the 6th inst.; and in the quiet and calm of the latter part of the following sabbath, was followed to this rest by a large concourse of sorrowing and sympathizing friends.

Requiescat in pace.  H.P.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, May 12, 1875

Deaths

WOOD:  In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], on 4th, Mrs. Wood wife of Henry Wood, aged 28 years.

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STRATTON:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], April 29th, Nettie [Stratton] daughter of Charles E. and Marion L. Stratton, aged 2 years, 5 months and 13 days.

In Earth's wide spreading garden, / God is cultivating flowers, / they share His richest sunlight, / They drink soft summer showers, / They brighten countless places / With beauty in its bloom. / Till death, the reaper, calls them / And lays them in the tomb.

The Rose whose precious fragrance / Filled the household with delight, / The Lily, fair and spotless, / Are taken from our sight; / Then hearts are torn with anguish, / Joy seems forever fled, / Till they find the consolation / Faith and hope undying abed.

The ministry of children; / Soon finished and well done. / Lifting heavenward bereaved exes / When their earthly race is run; / Ere the winds of rains had blighted / Through the skies they swiftly passed, / Still sweet with lingering fragrance / and beauteous to the last.

Death, then, is not destructive, / Death, is not for them decay, / Death is harvesting our treasures / For a holier, happier day; / God strengthen faith, to see them, / Through the veil transparent made, / Where in His heavenly garden / The blossoms never fade.

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INGRAHAM:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], April 28th, Hattie E. [Ingraham] wife of George Ingraham, aged 26 years and 7 months.

Dearest sister, thou has left us, / Here thy loss we deeply mourn. / Still we feel that He has called thee / To a higher, happier home.

Thou hast left a lone companion, / Who for thee dost sadly mourn; / But we trust ere long to meet thee / Where sad parting is unknown.

O, thy three lonely little children, / Could'st thou to them have been spared we say, / For we feel a mother's care is needed / To guide them on this worldly way. /T

Thou has left a lone, and stricken mother, / Here thy worldly cares to maintain; / Still with all our deep afflictions, / We trust ere long to meet again.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, May 15, 1875

Death

DONALSON:  At Canastota, N.Y. [Madison Co.], April 15th, of pneumonia, Mrs. Polly A. Donalson, sister of the late Dea. Williams Avery of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] and mother of Oliver A. Benedict of Lebanon [Madison Co. NY].

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, May 1875 (continued)

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, May 6, 1875

Deaths

FULLER:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], April 25th, Mr. Thos. A. Fuller, aged 62 years. 

KIRKHUFF:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], April 26th, Sarah M. [Kirkhuff] wife of John W. Kirkhuff, aged 26 years.

BROOKSBANKS:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], April 23d, Emerson G. [Brooksbanks], son of Robert and Ursula Brooksbanks, aged 6 years.

Little Emerson, art thou gone? / You, whom all did love so well! / Little rose bud -?- / Hast thou bid the world farewell?

Even now, I seem to hear / Thy little footsteps near me, / And thy gentle voice of sweetness, / Full of innocence to cheer me.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 6, 1875

Deaths

In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], April 29th, Mrs. Mary [Moon] wife of J.D.W.F. moon, aged 51 years.

In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], April 30th, April 30th, Mr. William Tuckey, aged 71 years.

In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], April 30th, Mrs. Betsey [Waters] wife of Uri Waters, aged 51 years.

In this town [Greene, Chenanog Co. NY], April 30th, Mrs. Phebe Ann Canniff, aged 67 years.

In Nineveh [Broome Co. NY], May 3d, Deacon John Bears Peck, aged 74 years.

On Thursday last, death put an end to the terrible sufferings of the little daughter of Mr. Chas. Stratton, of this town, who was scalded, as mentioned by us last week. The parents have the sympathy of the entire community in this, their sad bereavement.  Times

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In Smithville Flats [Chenango Co. NY], April 30th, Mr. George Kinnier, aged 36 years.

Eds. American:  It becomes our painful duty to announce through the columns of your paper, the death of a true friend, a worthy, enterprising and respected citizen.  George Kinnier died at his residence in this village on Friday afternoon, after a long and painful illness of four month's duration.  He bore his sufferings without a murmur.  It was not until a few days previous to his death, that hopes of his recovery were abandoned, and then it was that the true man appeared.  Cool, calm and collected to the last, he passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family and relatives.

In the death of George Kinnier, this community has suffered an almost irreparable loss.  His voice and purse were always ready to aid in any and every project that was beneficial to the place.  No more will his pleasant and genial face be seen by a host of personal and political friends throughout the county.  Some of the latter, particularly, Senator Thompson, he frequently inquired after during his illness.

His funeral took place on Sunday and was largely attended.  He was buried by the Masonic Order, of which he was an honored member, Eastern Light Lodge, of Greene, being largely represented.  We also noticed gentlemen of the fraternity from Chenango Forks and McDonough. The scene was very impressive, and one not soon to be forgotten.   D.K.

Another one has gone. / Friend of our earlier days, / If something to condemn / There's very much to praise.

We always found him kind, / A friend in time of need; / That is as far as man / Can be a friend indeed.

We mourn his early death. / Cut down in manhood's prime; / His memory revered, / By friends he left behind. 

His Brethren from Greene, / They kindly did attend, / And laid the mortal part away, / A mystic brother, friend.

His body lies in the grave, / But George he is not there; / His spirit has gone above, / And is in the Saviour's care.

A mother has gone before, / She beckoned him the way, / And with his latest breath / A mother's name did say.

He spoke of brother John, / Who preceded him a year, / And as the vail is lifted, / Did these dear friends appear.

We are tending to the grave, / And time is marching on, / God grant we may gain the victory, / And sing the victors' song.

Oh death, where is thy sting; / Thy victory, oh where; / The grave shall yield the dead, / We gave unto its care.

For Gabriel's trump shall sound, / And we shall mount on high, / To meet the Saviour in the clouds, / And never, never die.            J.R.

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Death of Elijah R. Haynes:  We clip the following from the Port Huron (Mich.) Times of April 27th.  Mr. Haynes was a son of Eli Haynes, who once resided here [Oxford Chenango Co. NY] and built the Chenango Valley Mills and the Tillotson Mills.  He was 55 years of age.

The death of this gentleman took place at the residence of James Beard, in this city, where he had been lying ill for the past three weeks, this morning.  He had been sick for several months past, his disease being an affection of the liver, brought on, originally, it is believed, by a severe cold.  Mr. Haynes became a resident of Port Huron some thirty years ago, and remained here until 1865, when he removed to Alcona to take charge of the lumbering business of Johnston, Haynes & Co. of which firm he was a member.  Three years ago, a change in the firm took place, all the partners retiring except Mr. James Beard and Mr. Haynes, and the firm name was changed to Haynes & Beard. A year since Mr. Frank E. Beard was admitted as a partner and the firm name changed to Haynes & Beards.  Mr. Haynes was formerly in the lumbering business in this city,m the old mill of Haynes & Beard being located on the river front where Mr. Beard's residence now stands.  He was twice elected sheriff of the county on the Republican ticket, was subsequently deputy U.S. marshal, and still later deputy collector of internal revenue.  Since his removal to Alcona, he has been continuously supervisor of the township.  Mr. Haynes was never married.  He was of a genial and generous disposition, and universally popular in the places where he lived.  His death will be deplored among a large circle of friends and will prove an almost irreparable loss to the people of Alcona, which place he was largely instrumental in building up.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, May 1, 1875

Deaths

Thomas A. Fuller died in this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], April 25th, 1875, in his sixty-third year.  He was born in Columbus [Chenango Co. NY] Sept. 6, 1812, and was son of the late Elijah Fuller.  He was educated in the common schools of Columbus and engaged in teaching when a young man.  He taught in Sherburne one winter, in a district west of the river.  He had been brought up a farmer but finding his strength unequal to the severe labors of that calling, he decided to change it for one in which diligence and integrity might serve in place of bodily strength.

In December 1841, he removed to Sherburne and commenced the business of a merchant which he pursued for more than thirty-three years, leaving it only upon a total failure of his strength about a fortnight before his death.  In 1850 he purchased the house formerly occupied by Mr. Burnham, in which he ever after resided.  For several years he had for a partner Mr. Archibald Whitford, who, after the dissolution, was his next-door neighbor in business.  Mr. Fuller was for many years agent for the sale of the publications of the American Bible Society.  His business was one of many departments; drugs, books, provisions, notions, etc. in short to supply the multitude of small wants. He dealt largely with the poor and a better friend the poor could not have had.  He was incapable of oppression and yet careful to protect his own interests.

He early became a member of the Congregational Church at Columbus, and after removing to Sherburne joined the Congregational Church here in which he continued until his death.  In all the relations of life "He kept the noiseless tenor of his way."

He had his trials.  In 1863, his only daughter died at the age of twelve, and the same year his sole remaining child received at the battle of Gettysburg, injuries of which death long seemed the probable result.  Mr. Fuller set out at once to the assistance of his son but was himself taken sick at Baltimore and obliged to turn back.  In the fall of 1865, he went with a party to visit the field of Gettysburg.  He attended to business very closely taking very little time for recreation.  He had made a good use of his powers.  He could give a good account of the strength which had been given him.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, May 8, 1875

Deaths

HAYWARD:  In this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 2d inst., Mr. Josiah Hayward, aged 58 years.

BENNETT:  In West Edmeston, Otsego Co. N.Y., April 29th, 1875, suddenly of paralysis, Mrs. Clara P. Bennett, wife of J.E. Bennett, aged 58 years.

Daniel Newton died at Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], April 17, 1875, aged 68 years.  He was born in Colchester, Conn.  He was a member of the M.E. Church for about 40 years.  He was faithful and true to the last.  He was for many years a steward and a zealous worker for the interest of the Church.  He was a cheerful giver, always ready to do his part, and then fill up where others failed to do.  Everyone loved him and had confidence in him. The people will unite in the comforting eulogy:  "He was a good man."  In his death the Chruch suffers a great loss, and to the world a clear light has gone out.  His widow who has shared his love from youth, worthily mourns him. Those little nephews will miss him.  His memory will be precious to all who knew him.  He rests from his labors and will reap the reward of the righteous.  May sustaining grace be the present portion of his afflicted widow.   H.F.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, May 1, 1875

Deaths

RUSSELL:  In North Sanford [Broome Co. NY], April 18, 1875, Mr. Russell, father of Legrand Russell, Esq.

KIRKHUFF:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], April 26, 1875, Sarah M. [Kirkhuff] wife of John W. Kirkhuff and daughter of Noble Buck, all of Afton.

Death has again visited our community and taken one of our fellow citizens.  Edward W. Scott of Nineveh [Broome co. NY] died at his residence (the Nineveh hotel) on Friday morning, April 16th, 1875.  His illness was short, but very severe.  He leaves a wife and two children to mourn his loss, besides a host of friends who learned to love and respect him for his genial ways and manly qualities.  While we sympathize with those that mourn, we can but point them to Him who promises to be a father to the fatherless and who tempers the wind to the shorn lamb.  It is a lamentable fact the moment we begin to live, that moment do we also begin to die.  Death is certain and it behooves all to be prepared for that event at a moment's warning.

In Memoriam:  Grim-visaged Death seems ever active in search of the fairest. This time he has stricken a most lovely type of maidenhood by removing from earth Viroqua Higley, daughter of Walter Higley, Esq.  Suffering for several months from a complexity of diseases, she has at last been called from the pains of the flesh to that place above for which she was so thoroughly prepared.  Possessed of an amiable disposition, sweet temper and gentle manner, she won the affection of all with whom she came in contact by her winning ways.  She possessed traits of character rarely found in young ladies of the present day, and it seems doubly sad to lose one who, while so young, gave promise of proving an ornament to her class in whatever capacity she was found.  She was a studious pupil of Bainbridge Academy up to the present term and was beloved by teachers and classmates alike.  She was an active member of St. Peter's church, Sabbath School and choir, and proved herself to be a devoted follower of Him to whom she early gave her heart.  Her exemplary Christian character is worthy of emulation by all.  We bow in humble submission to this divine summons, although hardly reconciling ourselves to the shock.  The grief stricken parents have universal sympathy in this trying ordeal.

Leaves have their time to fall, / And flowers to wither at the north wind's breath, / And stars to set; but all, / Thou hast all seasons for thine own, oh, Death!

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Afton [Chenango Co. NY]:  Again, we have to report that the hand of death is at work in our midst.  April 25th, Mrs. Eliza Miller, widow of Philander Miller, died of measles, aged 57 years.  on the day following Mrs Sarah M. [Kirkhuff] wife of John Kirkhuff, formerly of Montrose, Pa., died of consumption. She was a daughter of Nobel Buck, Esq. of this village. She leaves a large circle of relatives and friends to mourn her loss.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, May 8, 1875

Deaths

BENNETT:  In Ives Settlement [Chenango Co. NY], April 8, 1875, of scarlet fever, Nora Belle [Bennett] daughter of Samuel Bennett, aged 1 year, 10 months and 21 days.

To Heaven our white winged dove has flown, / To the juniper city with streets of gold; / Death's angel took in his starry flight, / Our angel, our Nora, our life, our light. / We saw not the angels who met her there; / The gates of the city we could not see, / But we know she is safe on the further side, / Where all the ransomed and angels be.

Where the song of the river is glad and triumphant, / And dimpled the waves with the kiss of the willows, / We left her alone, our glorified one. / Gray mosses her bed, and lilies her pillow, / Lent to us only, but not to us given, / Early the lamb was recalled to the fold; / But the dear little feet of sweet little Nora, / Joyously passed through the gateway of gold.                   M.R.J.

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Coventry [Chenango Co. NY]:  Ours is a sad record this week.  Death the grim messenger has been merciless in his demands upon our people the past week.  For three successive days the death knell of the bell was sent booming upon the air, bringing surprise, sorrow and bitter anguish to our hearts, reminding us that another, another and another of our town's people had paid the last debt, and crossed the dark river. Three heads of families have been taken, three happy homes made desolate, three different families are broken, father and mothers are gone. We record the deaths in the order they came.  On Thursday, April 29th, Mrs. J.W. D.F. Moon on Friday, Mr. Wm. Tuckey, and on Saturday Mrs. Uri Waters, Mrs. Moon and Mrs. Waters died of paralysis and Mr. Tuckey of typhoid pneumonia. The deceased were among our influential citizens and all of them old residents of the town.  While writing we learn of the recent death of Mrs. Henry Wood, daughter of John Brown, of this town.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, May 5, 1875

Death

In this village [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY], on Saturday, May 1st Miss Nancy Gilday.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, May 1875

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 6, 1875

Marriages

GODFREY - BENEDICT:  At the residence of the clergyman in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], April 26th by Rev. G.W Foster, Mr. Richard Godfrey to Miss Mary Benedict all of Norwich.

BROOKS - WESCOTT:  At the Baptist Church in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Thursday evening, April 29th ult by Rev. L.M.S. Haynes, LeRoy J. Brooks M.D. to Miss Adella P. Wescott, all of this village.

The large audience room of the Baptist Church was well filled on Thursday evening last, the occasion being the marriage of Dr. Leroy J. Brooks to Miss Adella P. Wescott, daughter of Paul L. Wescott, Esq.  The church was elegantly decorated with flowers, a work of love performed by the many friends of the fair bride, who were all anxious to testify their good wishes for her prosperity and happiness. As the bridal party passed to the church, they were greeted with music from the 103d Regiment Band, stationed in the pagoda; and as they approached the altar they were welcomed by joyous music from the organ.  The ceremony was performed by the pastor, Rev. Mr. Haynes, and was brief but impressive. As the party left the church, the organ again filled the spacious room with sweet music, this time tuned to the "Wedding March."

The services at the church being over, the happy couple repaired to their rooms, accompanied by their friends, where congratulations were offered.  Later in the evening they were greeted with a serenade by the Handel and Haydn Society; and on the following evening, the 103d Regiment Band repaired to the front of their residence and played some of their choicest pieces.  Altogether the affair was a pleasant and graceful one and hosts of friends join in the wish that the happy couple may have a pleasant and prosperous voyage over the sea of matrimony.

Deaths

AYLESWORTH:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], suddenly of scarlet fever, May 4th, Mary A. [Aylesworth], daughter of Nelson and Phebe A Aylesworth, aged 3 years.

MILLER:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], April 25th, Eliza [Miller], widow of the late Philander Miller, aged 57 years.

LYON:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], April 24th, Lois O. Lyon, aged 42 years.

HIGLEY:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], April 28th, Miss Viroqua Higley aged 20 years.

BALDWIN:  In South Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], April 24th, Mr. Orrin Baldwin, aged 67 years and 9 months.

ROGERS:  In German [Chenango Co. NY], April 21st, Mr. Richard Rogers, aged 70 years.

MARCY:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], April 18th, Mrs. R.J. Marcy, aged 75 years.

INGRAHAM:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], April 28th, Hattie E. [Ingraham] wife of George Ingraham, aged 26 years. 

PERRY:  In Tuscola, Mich., April 1st, Mr. EW. Perry, son of the late Dea. John Perry of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], aged 68 years.   m

LASELLE:  In North Plains Mich., Jan. 20th, Mrs. Roxana Laselle, aged 67 years, formerly of Earlville [Madison Co. NY].

ROWLEY:  At the residence of his son-in-law, R.D. Gulle, in Yaleville [Chenango Co. NY], April 17th, Mr. Seth Rowley in the 91st year of his age, formerly of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY].

BLINEBERRY:  At the County House in Preston [Chenango Co. NY], May 1st, Mrs. Blineberry, aged 82 years, one of the original members of the M.E. Church in Norwich.

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COLE:  In Marietta, Ga., April 18th, Mr. Henry G. Cole, formerly of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], aged 59 years.

The Marietta (GA) Journal announces the death of Henry G. Cole, a prominent resident of that city, which occurred on the night of the 18th ult., after a long and painful illness from heart disease.  Mr. Cole was born in New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], in this county, and when but a lad was adopted by the late Samuel Kent, of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], by whom he was reared to manhood.  Upwards of thirty years ago he removed to Marietta, where he acquired a large amount of property. During the war he was an ardent Union man and since its close he was a candidate for Congress.  He was a man of his own peculiar views, but consistent in his principles and a useful citizen.  His age was fifty-nine years, and he leaves a wife and several children to mourn his loss.

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EGGLESTON:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], April 27th, Mrs. Sidney Eggleston, aged 67 years.

Guilford:  Again has our community been called upon to mourn the loss of another of its aged and highly respected citizens in the person of Mrs. Sidney Eggleston, who died about 5 o'clock, Monday afternoon, aged about 67 years.  Mrs. Eggleston became a resident of our village at an early day - coming from Connecticut after her marriage to the late Sidney Eggleston, since which time she has lived to witness the growth and prosperity of our village and its surrounding country. She and her husband many years ago untied with the Methodist denomination and were instrumental in founding its first church here, of which they continued prominent and influential members till their deaths.  Some years since, Mrs. Eggleston became disabled from a paralytic stroke, from the effects of which she gradually grew worse until her decease.  In her death we have lost a good citizen as well as a sincere and consistent Christian. Besides a large circle of friends, she leaves an adopted son and daughter, Rev. A.G. Eggleston, of New Haven Connecticut, and Mrs. Edwin Hunt of our town, to mourn her departure. the funeral on Friday was attended by a large number of old friends and acquaintances.

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CHAPMAN:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY, May 3d, Miss Hattie S. Chapman, only daughter of Benjamin Chapman, Esq., aged 33 years.  

With the fading twilight of Monday evening, Hattie S. Chapman passed peacefully into the Silent Land.  The tortures of her sickness had been so long and so severe that death was not an unwelcome visitor.  Without a struggle, like one fanned by the wing of the Angel of Sleep - by the poets made twice brother of Death - she sank away. Thus ended a life that was incomplete in the number of its years, but all complete in the harmony of its aim and of tis attainment - a life very beautiful in all its promises, very loveable in all its benefactions, but all too brief in its duration.

She grew up here in our midst and her life was characterized by all the [benefits] that wealth and culture can give.  Yet they had no power to warp the nobler impulses of her gentle heart.  She was ever the devoted Christian, the faithful Sunday School teacher, the steadfast friend to the poor and friendless, the wise counsellor and helper on to those who were seeking that better life, which comes of self-sacrifice. She was a zealous member of the church in which she belonged, but no bigoted spirit ruled her. She ever rejoined in the prosperity of the cause of her blessed Savior, forgetting as unworthy of her Christian womanhood what church roll, ever working that the ingathering might increase. She was never indifferent in the demands of society, but always subordinated those demands to a higher scene of duty. she may have had some premonition that her life on earth was to be a short life, and so valued every hour of the day, giving it to good works rather than to idleness.

She has died in the springtime.  Through the perfume of the budding flowers she is borne out from her home forever; but the fragrance of her gentle life will linger in perennial sweetness, long after those flowers have blossomed and perished.  May those to whom she was nearest and dearest find consolation in the word of God, which was her comfort as the green familiar earth was shut out from her eyes and the angel of Death led her through the dark waters to the land of eternal morning.

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News Item

The Albany Argus of the 27th ult. publishes the following item, which has something of a local interest:

"George Greenwood, alias Burr Denning, "the hairless man" died on Saturday.  In the early part of last week, Constable Wheeler of Norwich Chenango County, went to Troy for the second time to arrest Greenwood on a charge of horse stealing.  He took his prisoner [to the] depot, when Greenwood was taken suddenly ill, and Wheeler left him lying in the depot, and took the train for home.  Late at night Greenwood was found by officers from the Second Precinct, and taken to the station house, from which place he was removed to the Marshall infirmary, where he died of chronic diarrhea at an early hour Saturday morning.  It having been alleged that the conduct of Wheeler in leaving him in the depot had accelerated his death, Coroner Defrness investigated the matter, but decided an inquest unnecessary."

The "Hairless man" was a former occupant of the County House in Preston [Chenango Co. NY] from which place he came to this village about the first of October last and stole a horse and buggy from Hial G. Hickok. The property was soon afterward recovered in Binghamton, the thief having disposed of it, and the next that was heard of him, he was an invalid in a Troy almshouse.  Upon learning of his whereabouts, officer Wheeler visited that institution, and found that the man without hair was too ill to be removed and the officers in charge promised to telegraph Wheeler when he had sufficiently recovered to undertake a journey to Norwich. A few days afterward the officer received a telegram from the officials of the Troy almshouse, notifying him that this man was then able to travel, and Wheeler at once went to Troy. When he reached the almshouse, he was informed by the officials that Greenwood was "playing sick," and that it would be the correct thing for the officer to leave without seeing him, the officials of the institution offering to send the man to the depot.  This was done, and soon a hack drove up at the depot, and the invalid was removed to the building.  Wheeler then discovered that the man was too ill to travel, and refused to take charge of him, believing that it was the intention of the Troy officials to throw upon his hands one of their dying paupers. When he left, the sick man was in charge of a city officer.

We publish this statement in justice to Mr. Wheeler, from whose account of the transaction it appears that there are two sides to the story.  The "hairless man" was from his birth destitute of capillary covering, not having even an eyelash to boast of.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, May 6, 1875

Deaths

ROSS:  In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], April 8th, Mary M. [Ross, wife of William Ross, aged 20 years.

LEVISEE:  In Beaver Meadow [Chenango Co. NY], April 20th, of Scarlet Fever, Walter [Levisee], son of JW. and M.J. Levisee, aged 5 years and 4 months.

MARCY:  At the residence of J.C. Marcy, of Greene [Chenango Co. NY], April 18th, 1875, Mrs. R.J. Marcy, relict of A.L. Marcy, aged 75 years.

Mrs. Marcy was remarkable for qualities both of mind and heart.  With aesthetic tastes, she was keenly practical in all the affairs of life.  With sympathies deep and refined, her presence became the sphere of blessed influences. To her children she was the embodiment of that which is most dear and sacred in "love," "home."

Vital Records, Norwich, NY, April 1875 (concluded)

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, April 29, 1875

Deaths

FULLER:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], April 25th, Thomas A. Fuller, aged 62 years.

BAILEY:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], April 22d, Eunice V. Bailey, aged 58 years.

FREEMAN:  At the residence of her son, in Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], April 17th, 1875, Betsey Freeman, wife of the late Wm. Freeman, aged 75 years.

NEWTON:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], April 20, suddenly, Charles E. Newton, aged 31 years.

On Friday, April 16th, about noon, a little son of James H. Dean, of Bovina [Delaware Co. NY], together with one William Herkimer who has been at work for Mr. Dean for some time, went into the chamber of Mr. Dean's house to cut off a string from a piece of leather.  While there, Herkimer was on his knees in the act of cutting the leather, when in some way the boy fell over onto the knife in Herkimer's hand.  The blade of the knife penetrated the boy's left side immediately under the heart.  He lived only fifteen minutes.  The boy was in his 5th years.

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Hon. James W. Farr died suddenly in New York City on Sunday last, at the ripe age of sixty-three years.  Mr. Farr was a son of Bela Farr; well known by our older citizen, and was born in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY]. His early youth was passed here, and in this office or that of Mr. Thurlow Weed, who was one of its early predecessors, we believe he was apprenticed to the printing business.  At the expiration of apprenticeship, he went to New York City, where he worked for a number of years as a journeyman printer.  He subsequently abandoned his trade for an appointment as Searcher in the Tax Office, which position he filled until his death.  In 1860 he was chosen School Commissioner by the citizens of the ninth Ward and was repeatedly elected to the same office until the abolishment of the elective system of members of the Board of Education by the legislature.  Mr. Farr, however, although not officially connected with the educational interests of the city did not cease to promote its welfare with commendable disinterestedness.  In recognition of his ability and experience, the late Mayor Havemeyer appointed Mr. Farr to the Board of Education for the term ending December 31, 1876.  He was Chairman of the Committee on Normal Schools, and a member of the Committees on Course of Studes, of By-Laws, Nomination of Trustees, and Salaries and Economy.  He was remarkable for his energy in attending to the various details of his manifold duties and was very popular with the children attending the public schools in the vicinity of his residence.

During the late war he was appointed and held the office of Provost Marshal for the 9th district, and it was about his office that many of the desperate acts which attended the draft riots were committed. Capt. Farr, however, never for a moment faltered in his duty, and to his fearless promptness in official matters the administration was greatly indebted.

He was an honest man, an ardent Republican, cheerful and pleasant in social life, and always a welcome visitor to our sanctum upon the occasions of his semi-annual visits to the village of his nativity.  He was buried on Tuesday from his residence in St. Luke's Place, at Woodlawn Cemetery.

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James W. Farr, father of Henry L. Farr, of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], died suddenly, in New York City, at the residence of Senator Booth, on whom he was calling, on Saturday evening.  Mr. Farr has long resided in New York, and for years has been connected with the educational interests of the city in an official capacity.  He was born in Norwich, in this county, and in early life was connected with the printing business in this village and Norwich.  Mr. Farr was a prominent and influential Republican, and a genial and well-informed gentleman.  His sudden death will cause deep grief among his numerous friends in his native county. We, too, shall miss his annual visits to our sanctum where he was ever a welcome and much prized visitor.  A good man has fallen by the way; one of God's noblest works, an honest man, has passed away, going out with his harness already on, and passing over to that unknown shore with a record of spotless integrity, and leaving behind a name and character worthy to be emulated by the young of our generation.  peace to his ashes.  [Chenango American, Greene, NY, Apr. 29, 1875]

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 29, 1875

Marriages

At the residence of the bride's father, April 21st, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Albert H. Shapley, of Lebanon, Madison Co. [NY], to Miss Jennie A. [Harris] of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].

At the house of the bride's father, April 13, by Rev. Jas. D. Webster, Mr. John Holl of Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Flora L. Marvin, of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY].

In Barker [Broome Co. NY], April 20th, by Rev. R.A. Clark, Mr. Amos F. Taft of Triangle [Broome Co. NY] to Mrs. Kate Hatch, of Barker.

Deaths

In Ogdensburg, St. Lawrence Co. [NY], April 17th, Mr. E.W. Benedict, aged 62 years, formerly of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY].

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], at the residence of J.C. Marcey, April 18th, after a long and painful illness, Mrs R.J. Marcey, aged 75 years.

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In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], April 22d, Mrs. Rosetta Lyon, aged 74 years.

This aged communicant of Zion Church, has after a lingering illness, passed from a couch of suffering to that hallowed rest for which she had so earnestly longed.  With a pulmonary disease of many year's continuance, she was called through the latter portion of her life to suffer from a harassing cough which prostrated her strength and involved continued weariness and exhaustion of body.  With a firm trust in the divine dealings, she was submissive under her trying allotment, feeling that God's will must be fully done.  By the death of a husband in the early vigor of manhood, she was left in the care of her three children, and by a wise government she was granted the blessing of seeing these children reaching positions of respectability and usefulness in life.

With strong attachments to her old home among us, and to the association of old friends and neighbors, she clung to the spot where her early years were passed.  A devoted sister and a loving son were ever ready to minister to her relief and comfort.  She was cheered in all the wastings of disease by strong Gospel hopes.  Her memory ran back to the very earliest days of the formation of the Chruch, with which in this community, she was linked by the strongest ties of attachment.  A large attendance of warm friends, numbers of whom were her equals in years, gathered at the funeral solemnities.  "Blessed are the dead who die in the lord, their works do follow them."

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, April 1875 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 29, 1875

Marriages

SEXTON - HUNT:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], April 8th, by Rev. C.C. Johnson, Mr. Wells Sexton to Miss Dency Hunt, all of Smyrna.

SMITH - HOYT:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], April 6th, by Rev. Charles Shepard, Mr. Frederick Smith to Mrs. Eliza Hoyt, all of Greene.

SEELY - CLAPP:  In Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY], April 15th, Mr. Israel W. Seely to Miss Polly D. Clapp, both of Afton [Chenango Co. NY].

MUDGE - PIPER:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], April 18th, by Rev. G.P. Turnbull, Mr. John P. Mudge of Taylor [Cortland Co. NY] to Miss Ida M. Piper of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY].

PERKINS - BLAIR:  In Erieville, Madison Co. [NY], March 31st, by Rev. W.S. Smith, Mr. Judson V. Perkins of Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY] formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Eva Blair of Erieville.

Deaths

SAGE:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], April 5th of typhoid pneumonia, Mr. William D. Sage aged 61 years.

SHAPLEY:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], April 14th, Delilah [Shapley] wife of James Shapley, aged 53 years.

HOLMES:  In the County Home in Preston [Chenango Co. NY], April 21st, Mr. Frederick W. Holmes aged 59 years.

HILL:  At the County Home in Preston [Chenango Co. NY], April 21st, Eli Hill, aged 61 years.

VINTON:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], April 19th, Mr. Ferris S. Vinton aged 24 years and 9 months.

ROOSE:  In Cortland [Cortland Co. NY], April 24th, Hattie L. [Roose] daughter of Prof. J.H. Roose, aged 8 years, 9 months and 9 days.

HOLMES:  In Taylor, Cortland co. [NY], April 16th, Mr. Leonard Holmes, aged 60 years, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

SCOTT:  In Minnesota, April 17th, Mr. Alonzo Scott of Owego, aged 48 years, son of Horace Scott, formerly of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY].  His remains were brought to his home for interment.

John Bennett died in Oneida [Madison Co. NY] on the 15th inst., aged nearly ninety years.

Thomas Cain was found dead in the road near his residence in Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY], on Wednesday morning of last week.  Drinking and exposure caused his death.  He was forty years of age and leaves a wife and four small children destitute.

Leonard Holmes of Bangall (Taylor) [Cortland Co. NY], died suddenly on the 16th inst.  During the recent fire in that village, the dwelling of Mr.  H. caught fire a number of times, and Mr. H. labored hard to save his home, which was done.  Since that time, he had not been well, and on Friday afternoon he went to the post office, a short distance.  Before reaching the store, he was in severe pain, and as soon as he deposited his letter, he returned home, his pain increasing, and in fifteen minutes he was a corpse.

Death of Mrs. Byron Marks: The Binghamton Times mentions the sad death of an estimable lady of that city and a former resident of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] as follows:  "Somewhat over two years ago the wife of Mr. Byron Marks, a prominent merchant of this city, was seriously injured in a railway collision on the D.L.&W. R.R. near Port Dickinson.  Since that accident she remained an invalid until her death, which occurred suddenly on Wednesday evening last, at the residence of her brother in Goshen, Orange County, N.Y.  Mrs. Marks was a very estimable lady, and her loss will be deeply regretted by a large circle of friends."

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At a meeting of the Vestry of St. Paul's Church, Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], held on the 1st inst., the following deserved tribute to the memory of one of Oxford's old and honored citizens was unanimously adopted:

The decease of Thomas Gansbeck Newkirk, on the 25th of March, 1875, at the age of 76 years, removes from our Parish another of its oldest members, and from our community one of its most upright and excellent citizens.  Mr. Newkirk came to this village form the city of Kingston, on the North River, about 60 years ago, intending to enter upon the study of law; but soon made up his mind to engage in the mercantile business in which he continued until the close of his life.

For many years he served our Parish as Vestryman and Warden and contributed freely and generously according to his abilities towards its welfare and its wants.  He gained, as he deserved, the utmost respect and confidence of the community in which he lived, so that his word and his name were identified with integrity, honor and truth.  His upright Christian character and life will long be cherished by those who knew him best, and we shall all sadly miss his familiar form and presence.

The sweet remembrance of the just / Shall flourish when he sleeps in dust.

G.H. Perkins, Clerk of the vestry.

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The body of Charles B. Beach of Whitney's Point [Broome Co. NY] who was drowned on the 4th inst., while passing the dam at Port Dickinson, by the capsizing of the boat he was in, was found on Friday afternoon last on a bar or bush dam in the upper part of the city of Binghamton.  Since the time of the accident, hundreds have at different times been engaged in searching for the body; the river has been dragged, hooks and lines set, a cannon fired over the river, but in vain and when he was found by his father and three other men, he lay in a channel between two islands, not more than eight feet in width, while the water at that point was only from four to six inches in depth.  The body lay face downwards in the mud with the feet up the stream.  It was not mangled or bruised, the clothing was entire; there was very little bloating of the body, or signs of decomposition; and a revolver, knife, order book, etc., was found in the pockets.  The funeral was attended at Whitney's Point on Saturday afternoon and was attended by large numbers. Deceased was a general favorite in that community.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, April 1875 (continued)

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, April 21, 1875

Deaths

We copy the following obituary on the death of Mr. Mayes, a respected former resident of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], from an Osceola, Iowa paper:

Josiah Mayes peacefully departed this life on the 10th inst. at the residence of Mr. H.E. Mintonye, his nephew by marriage in the 69th year of his age.  

He was born near Gettysburg, Pa.  In early life he removed to the State of New York, where he married Miss Mary Lee with whom he lived in happy companionship for forty years.

Mr. Mayes has not been among us much, not being in active business, and having very feeble health, he was not brought into very close contact with many of our citizens.  Still, he made many friends, who have learned to love him for his gentle deportment, his general intelligence, and benevolent heart.  He retained his mental faculties in vigor to the very last moment of his life, speaking and making minute arrangements for his departure and funeral, manifesting the highest appreciation for all that his friends were doing for him to solace his last hours of suffering.  His religious sentiments were what are known as liberal; yet he seemed to have implicit faith in God's Word and expressed himself as relying on the provisions of the Gospel alone, as the ground of his hope of a please immortality.  J.O.

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Death of Miss Jennie Stowell:  The Elmira Advertiser published the following notice on the death of Miss Jennie Stowell, aged 18 years, daughter of James H. and Mary T. Stowell, who died in that city on Oct. 219th.  "By the death of Miss Jennie Stowell, has gone from us a dutiful daughter and a fascinating friend.  She was a lovely girl, a most estimable woman, a beautiful bud, plucked that it might blossom in the gardens of the Lord.  A numerous host of friends, by their presence at the last rights of the dead, testified their loss and sympathy with the grief-stricken relatives.  The obsequies, conducted by the Revs. Dr. Knox and Mr. Beecher were very impressive.  Her Sunday School classmates sang the songs of her love, and many friends bestowed most beautiful floral offerings.  The remains were interred at Woodlawn, six of our city's most prominent young men, and her intimate friends doing the last sad offices of respect and love.  Mr. Stowell may be sympathized with in the loss of an only daughter by a large circle of friends."

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 24, 1875

Marriage

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], April 6th, by Rev. Charles Shepherd, Mr. Frederick Smith to Mrs. Elia Hoyt of Greene.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, April 24, 1875

Marriage

HEBBARD - WHITNEY:  In this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 14th inst. by Rev. S. Wood.  Mr. Charles Hebbard and Miss Addie Whitney, all of this place.

Deaths

MARKS:  In Goshen [Orange Co. NY], on the 22d inst. Mrs. Harriet Marks, wife of Mr. Byron Marks of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], aged about 36 years.

Mrs. Harriet Marks, daughter of Mrs. Asa Foot of this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], and wife of Mr. Byron Marks of Binghamton, formerly of this village, died in Goshen on Wednesday last.  Mrs. Marks had been suffering from precarious health for a long itme and was on her way to New York to obtain the services of an eminent physician of that city, but was unable to proceed further than Goshen where she was taken worse and died.  Mrs. Foot and Mrs. Wm. E. Davis went to Binghamton Thursday and will be present at the funeral services which take place in that city today (Saturday) at 2 o'clock P.M.

Oxford [Chenango Co. NY]:  Mrs. Cole, widow of Charles Cole, who was injured by the running away of a team on the 11th inst. and suffered the amputation of her right leg, died on Friday morning last.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, April 24, 1875

Deaths

EDGERTON:  In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], April 16th, 1875, of dropsy, Calvin Edgerton, aged 76 years.  Deceased was an old inhabitant of the town and greatly esteemed by all who knew him.

SMITH:  The hand of death has again saddened our hearts by the removal of Olivia Smith, of Masonville [Delaware Co. NY].  she was esteemed and beloved by all who knew her, being lovely in person, amiable in temper, and in her death a strong cord has been broken which had been thrown around the circle in which she was surrounded.  Whilst we may not be able to sympathize with the bereaved family circle, we feel that there is a circle broken which comes very near to us, and when we think of the many pleasant hours we have spent together as teacher and pupil, and the strong ties thus entwined around us, a pang of sadness strikes to our heart; and still when we realize that it is the hand of God, we would not murmur or complain, but feel that He doeth all things well, and that another jewel had been placed in God's diadem to draw our minds from earth to Heaven.

JONES:  In Ives Settlement [Chenango Co. NY], on the evening of April 6th, 1875, of scarlet fever, Hubert Marion [Jones] only child of Charles and Dora Jones, aged 1 year, 7 months and 13 days.

Let the full grief-tide flow / In one unbroken strain, / We've covered up the snow white breast./ We hope to meet again, / O yes, we've closed the sunny eyes, / While tears like summer rain / Fall o'er the waxen clay of him / We hope to meet again.

The last farewells are given, / Death has broke the golden chain / But in yonder starry heaven / We hope to meet again. / The little mound is made / Which holds our sacred claim, / And there our Hubert's laid / We hope to meet again.

The lily there we plant, / The roses there we train / Above the silken curls of him. / We hope to meet again.  / O will it not be sweet / On yonder shining plain / With all the happy host to meet / Our loved one there again.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, April 1875 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 22, 1875

Marriages

ADAMS - WALKER:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], April 17th, by Rev. W. H. Waldron, Mr. Martin Adams to Miss Fannie M. Walker, all of Norwich.

SAWYER - SAWYER:  In Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY], March 31st, by Rev. A.S. Clark, Mr. Henry Sawyer of norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Mrs. Amy Sawyer of New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY].

CADY - COLEMAN:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] April 16th, by Rev. W.H. Waldron, Mr. Albert Cady of Brisbin [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Betsey M. Coleman, of Norwich.

Rev. Mr. Nash of Harford Mills [Cortland Co. NY] whose wife ran away with the village blacksmith a short time since, precured a divorce on the 9th inst. and in less than an hour afterwards was married to a young lady whom he had seen but a few times.

Deaths

MARR:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], April 17th, at the residence of his brother, George W. Marr, Mr. John Marr, aged 69 years.

SANNICK:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], April 30th, George  H. [Sannick] son of Peter H. and Ann Sannick, aged 7 years.  

CHAMBERS:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], April 18th, Joseph [Chambers] son of William H. and Meralin Chambers, aged 10 months.

McKINLEY:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], April 19th, Francis James [McKinley] son of James A. and Jane McKinley, aged 8 years.

NEWTON:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], April 18th, Mr. Daniel Newton, aged 78 years and 3 months.

WELLS:  In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], April 17th, Mr. J.H. Wells, aged 76 years.

HACKET:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], April 13th, Mr. Daniel Hacket, aged 88? years.

WALLACE:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], April 12th, Cora B. [Wallace]  oldest child of M.M. and D. Wallace, aged 8 years and 10 months.

SCOTT:  In Nineveh [Broome Co. NY], April 16th, Mr. Edwin W. Scott, aged 35 years, son of the late Wiley H. Scott.

BEARDSLEY:  In Willett, Cortland Co. [NY], March 14th, Rebecca [Beardsley], wife of Dr. Bela Beardsley, aged 80 years.  She was one of the pioneers of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], and though refined and educated, she endured a life of hardship and trials without complaint.  Thus perish the ties that bind us to the past.

Patrick Burns, aged eighty-nine, dropped dead while standing by a stove after returning from early mass at the Catholic Church on Sunday morning last.  He had been three times married, and is said to have been the father of thirty-four children.

Francis H. Hibbard, one of the most respected citizens of Cortland [Cortland Co. NY], died at his residence on the 10th inst.

The widow fo the late Dr. A. G. Purdy of Oneida [Madison Co. NY], died on Tuesday afternoon of last week, a few hours less than eight days form the death of her husband.

John A. Brown, sentenced from Otsego County [NY], Sept. 23d, 1874 for burglary, 2d degree, for two years, died in the Prison Hospital, in Auburn [Cayuga Co. NY], March 19th.

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Death of a Veteran:  Last week we published in our obituary column, a brief mention of the death of William Sherwood, which occurred at the residence of his son, Edmund T Sherwood, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on the 9th inst.  His decease deserves more than a passing notice.

Mr. Sherwood was born in Connecticut, June 11th, 1793 and removed to Guilford in this County [Chenango Co. NY], about the year 1805, from which place he came to this village some thirty years ago and has since resided here.  He accompanied the Oxford Volunteers, as musician, in the war of 1812, and was stationed at Sackett's Harber.  His father, Asa Sherwood, served seven years in the war of the Revolution, and two of his sons, Eugene and James, went out with the 114th Regiment from this place, and served during the late rebellion.

Enjoying the respect and esteem of all who knew him, deceased has gone to his rest, mourned by a large circle of relatives and friends.  Nine children survive him: David L., of Oxford; Charles, of St. Louis; Nehemiah, of Greene; Edmund T., of Norwich; Eugene, of union, Broome Co.; James, of Norwich; Sophronia, of Norwich; Mrs. James H. Allen, of Norwich; and Susan C., of Norwich.  Of a family of seven brothers and sisters, but two survive him: John L. Sherwood of Guilford, and Mrs. Laman Ingersoll, also of that town.

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Rufus N. Mills and family of Guilford Centre [Chenango Co. NY], has been subjected to one of those heart-rending bereavements in the death by scarlatina of their only two sons, that sooner or later invades the quiet and happiness of every family circle. These two promising lads, one nine and the other ten-years of age, were the life and hope of their parents, and now that they have been removed in their tender years by a Higher Power for some inscrutable reason, their death and its sorrow fall upon the disconsolate father and mother with crushing sadness.  One was sick about three days, and dying on the 8th, and the other some ten or twelve days, and dying on the 14th inst.  In their severe affliction, the family have the sympathy of many relatives and friends.

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DIED:  In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], at the residence of her daughter, Mrs. Sarah A. Yale, on Thursday evening, the 15th inst. Margaret Porter, relict of the late Parson Beecher, aged 90 years and 5 months.

The death of that venerable woman, whose name stands at the head of this sketch, which occurred in Coventry on the evening of the 15th inst. in her ninety-first year, is deserving of something more than mere mention.  Mrs. Beecher was among the pioneers of this County, and especially of Southern Chenango.  Early in 1808, she came with her newly married companion, Parson Beecher, from Salem, now Naugatuck, Connecticut, and took up her abode in a log cabin her husband had prepared the previous year, in their wilderness home.  the hardships, deprivations and trials of a new settlement were theirs to endure.  Neighbors, roads, mills, schools, churches, if not wholly unknown, were few and far between.  With industry and economy came a measure of prosperity and a degree of contentment and happiness in palaces often sought for and seldom found.

The first framed house in the western part of Coventry, and the first, we believe, on the Catskill and Ithaca turnpike as subsequently laid out, between Bainbridge and Greene, was built by the late husband of the deceased.  In it, town and also religious meetings were frequently held, the place being reached by single paths or the marks of the woodman's ax upon the forest trees.  From that household,  from that house, which, with some additions still remains, a family of ten children, six sons and four daughters have been sent out into the bustling world.

In 1819, on the 4th of July, as the records show, Margaret Beecher with three or four others, connected herself with the first congregational Church of Coventry, located at East Coventry, or Coventryville, that portion of the town having been settled nearly simultaneously, perhaps a little earlier than the western.  In December 1822, the Second Congregational Society of Coventry was organized, with Parson Beecher, Timothy B. Bidwell and Samuel Porter as Trustees.  In 1824 the Society commenced building the church edifice, which was dedicated in the beginning of 1825.  In June of the last-named year the Second Congregational Church, of Coventry, was organized with a membership of fourteen, all being regular members of the First church of Coventry.  Prominently on the roll appears the name of Margaret Beecher.  She lingered longest, most of the original number having crossed the river long before.  In her death, the last of that noble company of fourteen, who there planted the seeds of a glorious fruition, nurtured by their prayers and watered by their tears, has entered into rest.

In every department and relation in life did Mrs. Beecher nobly fill her allotted sphere.  As wife, mother, sister, companion and friend, she was sincerely cherished and beloved.  In her daily walk, by precept and example she exemplified the religion she professed.  Of strong memory and sound mind, every faculty strengthened by much reading and by the contemplation of serious and substantial things, it is not perhaps so surprising that she should maintain so deep an interest in passing events, as well as be able vividly to recall scenes and occurrences of three-quarters of a century ago.  Gifted with rare conversational powers and pleasing address, all classes were attracted to her and made glad in her presence.

Her patience was only equaled by her fortitude.  Not a complaining word during the long and tedious winter of illness and suffering escaped her lips. The comfort and welfare of others and the happiness of her own family, rather than considerations of self, was often the burden of her mind.  Having outlived nearly four generations, retaining in a remarkable degree her mental powers till the ebb of life, like one falling to sleep she passed away.

The influence of such a character and life, reaching into the last decade of a hundred years, can never be estimated or measured by the duration of time.

The Funeral was largely attended on Sunday last, from the residence of her daughter, Mrs. Yale, Rev. William Crocker of the First congregational Chruch, assisted by Rev. Mr. Horton of the Second, officiating. Deceased leaves three daughters and five sons, all but one, Mr. Hoyt of Pittston, Pa., being present at the solemn service.  She was mother to Dr. H.H. and Harry Beecher, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, April 22, 1875

Deaths

JOHNSON:  In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], April 19th, of scarlet fever, Edwin D. [Johnson], son of Marvin and P Johnson, aged 3 years and 8 months.  the angels have taken our sweet brother / Away from privation and pain, / And we know when our sorrows are ended / In heaven we will meet him again.

Friday morning, the 9th inst. Charley Allen, aged about ten years, son of Trowbridge Allen, residing near DeRuyter village [Madison Co. NY], died with scarlet fever, after a sickness of only thirty-six hours.  It was only the day but one previous to his death that he was in town at four o'clock, P.M. for a doctor for his father, who was sick of the same disease.

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We announced in last week's Telegraph in the obituary column, the death of William Sherwood, which occurred at the residence of his son, Edmund, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on the 9th inst.

Though Mr. Sherwood was unknown to fame and walked in an humble sphere, still his record was a noble one, and deserves more than a passing notice.  He was born in Connecticut, Jan. 11, 1793.  His father was Asa Sherwood, who was a soldier in the revolutionary Army, and for seven long years bravely fought for the nationality which we now enjoy.  William removed to Guilford in this county, about the year 1805.  In the war of 1812-14, he joined the Chenango volunteers, and was stationed at Sackett's Harbor, and thus did his share towards perpetuating the government his father fought to establish.  The war over, he returned to this county, and about the year 1844, took up his residence in this village, where he has since resided.

In his early days Mr. Sherwood was a hardy yeoman, and actively engaged in mechanical and agricultural pursuits.  In other respects, he was a wonderful man.  He made the Bible his particular study, and often have we heard him quote in almost endless variety, texts in support of the theological questions he delighted to discuss, showing an entire familiarity with the "good book," as he used to term it, and a memory wonderful in its power to retain quotations and where they might be found in the Bible.

Mr. Sherwood was, we believe, a sincere Christian, though of late years he has not enjoyed a church connection.  His word was always sacred, so much so that it was acknowledged by all who were acquainted with him, and implicit reliance placed upon it.  He was of a genial and pleasing disposition, and always imparted pleasure to his hearers in social converse.

Though not a politician, Mr. S. was a close observer of events and during the war of the Rebellion, his voice was always found in favor of his country.  He gave two sons, Eugene and James, to the service in the 114th Regiment who fought nobly to save the government established by the grandfather and perpetuated by the father.

His last days have passed in quiet, and for the past two years he has not been able to mingle in society or business.  About twenty-five years since he buried his wife, since which he has patiently awaited the Master's appointed time for the reunion in the better land.  At last, it has come.  A good man has gone to his rest, his reward awaits him, indeed has he not already entered into its possession?

Mr. Sherwood left surviving him one brother and sister, John Sherwood and Mrs. Laman Ingersoll, who both reside in Guilford.  His large family of children also all survive him, and we may be pardoned for mentioning them as follows:  David L., residing at Oxford; Charles, St. Louis; Nehemiah, Greene; Eugene, Union; and Edmund and James living in this village.  His daughters are Sophronia, Susan and Mrs. J.H. Allen, who also all reside here. All are highly respectable citizens, enjoying the confidence of the communities in which they reside.  May the virtues of the father descend to the children.