Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, January 1876 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, January 20, 1876

Marriages

HUMPHREY - HART:  At the residence of the bride's father, in Iowa City, Iowa, Jan. 15th, by Rev. D. Brown, Mr. William L. Humphrey to Miss Minerva L. Hart daughter of Eugene Hart, all of Iowa City.

ALVERSON - LOTTERIDGE:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 12th, by Rev. S.W. Weiss, Mr. Willie A. Alverson to Miss Martha A. Lotteridge, all of Earlville [Madison Co. NY].

LOTTERIDGE - CROWELL:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 12th, by Rev. S.W. Weiss, Mr. Charles H. Lotteridge of Columbus [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Lucitta M. Crowell, of Sherburne.

ORWEN - MORTON:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 9th, by Rev. D.C. Haynes, Mr. John Orwen of North Sanford, Broome Co. [NY], to Miss Minnie E. Morton of Bainbridge.

JUDD - MINOR:  In Coventryville [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 12th, by Rev. G.D. Horton, Mr. Joel L. Judd to Mrs. Amanda M. Minor of Coventryville.

BEACH -SWIFT:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 13th, by Rev. H. Fox, Mr. Theodore Beach to Miss Cora Swift, all of Smyrna.

TAINTOR - CHURCH:  In Owego [Tioga Co. NY], Dec. 8th, by Rev. F.S. Peck, Mr. Phineas E. Taintor, of Harford [Cortland Co. NY] to Miss Ella S. Church, of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].

BOWDISH - DELAVAN:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY] Dec. 28th, by Rev. H.C. McDermott, Mr. Charles W. Bowdish, of Freetown [Cortland Co. NY] to Miss Nettie V. Delavan, of Cincinnatus.

BRIGGS - GARDNER:  In Freetown, Cortland Co. [NY], Dec. 31st by Rev. H.C McDermott, Mr. morris Briggs of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY] to Mis Sally M. Gardner, of Freetown.

Deaths

SMITH:  On the Great Brook, in New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 30th, Francis E. [Smith] wife of William Smith.

TILYOU:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 14th, Mrs. Mary Tilyou mother of Albert Tilyou, aged 71 years, 9 months and 13 days.

CRANDALL:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 1st, of typhoid pneumonia, Mrs. Phianna Crandall in the 65th year of her age.  widow of Caleb Crandall.

WOOD:  In Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], Jan. 8th, Abby Ann [Wood], wife of Leonard Wood, aged 44 years.

REED:  In Salisbury, Conn., Jan. 7th, at the residence of her son, Marvin Reed, Mrs. Mary Ann Reed aged 88? years, mother of J.D. and W.R. Reed and Mrs. J.O. Hill of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

Mrs. Ruth Cadogan, aged 73 years of Little York [Cortland Co. NY], who had been suffering from partial paralysis for some years, while attempting to rise from her chair, during the temporary absence of her daughter, on the 7th inst. fell upon the floor breaking her hip bone, and fracturing the tibia, besides sustaining internal injuries, which resulted in her death on the following Sunday.

A young man named Edward Behan died of smallpox in Oneida [Madison Co. NY], on the 11th inst.  There was no other cases int he village, and every precaution has been taken by the authorities to prevent the spread of the deisease.

Owen Matthews, aged 77, a respected citizen of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY] died of heart disease while eating his Christmas dinner.

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SCHORN:  In St. Paul, Minn., Jan. 10th, of paralysis of the brain, Mr. Jacob Schorn son of S. Joseph and Matilda Schorn, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] aged 27 years.

Deceased will be remembered by a large circle of acquaintances in this vicinity, as an estimable young man, and his early death will be sincerely mourned.  The St. Pual Dispatch of the 10th inst. makes the following mention of his death:

"Jacob Schorn a tobacconist at No. 74 West Third Street, died this morning of paralysis of the brain.  Mr. S. was born in Cologne, Prussia; came to this country in 1857, became a citizen of St. Paul in 1868.  Married a daughter of J.S. Phillsbrook, Esq., of Minneapolis.  Has been sick for nine weeks and leaves a wife and three children.  Funeral tomorrow, and the body taken to Minneapolis.  Mr. Schorn was a good man, a member of the German Society, amiable in the business walks of life, a kind friend and a devoted husband."

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SMITH:  In Cincinnati, Ohio, Jan. 17th, of smallpox.  Mr. Frank M. Smith, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], aged 22 years.

The announcement of the death of young Smith, which was received by his father, C.A. Smith, Esq., of this place on Monday evening last, caused a feeling of sadness among the relatives and friends of the deceased.  he will be remembered as a former resident of this village, and a genial companion and warm-hearted friend.  In the summer of 1874 he married Miss Jennie Milner, of this village and soon afterwards removed to Ohio. At the time of his death, he was employed in a clothing house in Cincinnati.  His friends have received no particulars of his death, with the exception of the dispatch received on Monday evening, from Mr. Thomas G.  Harron of Cincinnati.  His brother, John Smith, left on Tuesday morning and will accompany the stricken widow to the home of her friends in this village.

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ROGERS:  Suddenly on the cars in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Monday evening, Jan. 17th, Rev. Dr. Ferdinand Rogers, Rector of Zion Church, Greene [Chenango Co. NY], aged 60 years.

Death, always a dreaded visitor, is doubly unwelcome when the Messenger comes suddenly in an unlooked for moment and in a least expected manner.  The announcement of a sudden take off is more than ordinarily startling and the shock proportionately severe.  Such a shock has been experienced in this community and which will extend as the sad event is made known in the sudden death on Monday evening last of Rev. Ferdinand Rogers, D.D., late Rector of Zion Church, Greene. The shock is especially severe in the present instance because the one suddenly removed has spent a long and useful life, honored and beloved, among the people of this County.

Dr. Rogers left his parish on Saturday evening last, in the fullness of health and strength, and came to Norwich to officiate on Sunday in Emmanual Church for Rev. Mr. Loveridge, who is absent from town.  Morning and evening he conducted most acceptably the services of the church and delivered two most able and eloquent discourses which were received with universal commendation for their marked power and effectiveness by the large congregations present.  Sabbath afternoon, several of the vestry and others waited upon the Rector at the residence of Mrs. Griffing, whose house was his home during his brief sojourn in Norwich and were comforted and cheered by the words which he uttered. On Monday he made and received numerous calls, among others visiting Rev. Mr. Scoville at his study, with whom he had a most delightful interview.

In the evening he was joined by his wife, who came on the Utica Express to attend with him Gough's lecture, desirable sittings having previously been secured by a friend.  After the lecture, which both seemed greatly to enjoy, as did all, and with which the Doctor especially expressed himself a number of times as exceedingly well pleased, with others they left the church for the train in waiting, exchanging many pleasant words as they passed along.  On the way, Mr. and Mrs. Rogers called for a moment at Mrs. Griffing's, nothing unusual being observed on the part of the doctor, excepting a slight indication of dizziness and weakness, but which would never have been thought of more, except for the startling change which so quickly followed.

Upon reaching the train at the Lackawanna depot, the Doctor made a remark which indicated to Major Everts, the conductor in charge, bewilderment of mind and loss of recollection, that convinced him that there was something the matter.  He stepped into the baggage car, where were J.W. Glover, Esq., and other Oxford gentlemen, and the train moved on.

Scarcely had the swing bridge been passed at the lower part of the village, before he sank into the arms of those near him, and in a moment, before his wife and friends could reach him from an adjoining car he was dead.  The cause, whether apoplexy or heart disease, doubtless will forever remain a mystery; judging from his own impressions, probably the latter.

The matter was talked over, we learn, that very day at Mr. Scoville's, and Mr. Rogers rather came to the conclusion that his convictions in regard to heart troubles were unfounded.  In any event, he expressed his entire readiness and willingness to depart, suddenly if it might be, firmly believing that all would be well with him.

His discourse on Sunday morning was peculiarly suggestive and impressive, portraying in a masterly manner the imperfections and perishableness of earth, and full of the richness and glories of Heaven.  His text was in these words as recorded in the First Epistle General of John:  "And the world passeth away and the lust thereof; but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever."  It was such a sermon as a minister of the Gospel might well preach who expected the next day or at any moment to exchange the dross and fading things of this world for the the bright and enduring, the pure gold of the City of God.,

Twenty-nine years ago, the subject of this sketch came from Brownville, Jefferson County [NY], to Greene [Chenango Co. NY], a widower, with one son.  That son, it may be remembered, died in Utica some two years ago, from disease of the brain, brought on by excessive study in his preparation for the ministry, which we believe, with great promise he had already entered. A few years after his settlement in this County, Mr. Rogers married his present wife, an intimate friend of his former companion, by whom he has had six children, two of whom only are living, a daughter perfecting her musical education in Philadelphia, and a son eighteen or twenty years of age.  For twenty-nine years through many trials and vicissitudes did Mr. Rogers continue the Good Shepherd of one flock, cherished, reverenced and beloved, not only by his immediate charge, but by all with whom he was brought in contact.  He stood high in the Church, and his opinions were held with great weight.  Genial in his social relations, able in the ministry, without bigotry, faithful to his friends, forgiving his enemies (and these must have been few), he went down to his grave, his work done and well done, like a shock of corn fully ripe in its season. Well did the Revelator write "Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth; yea saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them."  The funeral of Dr. Rogers was held in Greene, this (Wednesday)Afternoon.  His aged was 60.

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VAN EMBERGH:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 12th, Mrs. Nancy Van Embergh, wife of Thomas Van Embergh, aged 80 years.

When one who has lived so long and so well as she whose name stands at the head of this article, passes away from earth, it seems fitting that a somewhat extended notice should be given of her life and character and death.

Mrs. Van Embergh was born in Lynn, Conn., in February 1795, and hence at the time of her death, on the 13th inst. she was nearly 80 years of age.  when about fourteen years old, she went on a visit into Albany County, in this State [NY].  There she was married, at the age of sixteen, and there she lived with her family till she was forty-two.  For the last thirty-eight years she has lived in this town where she and her husband at first settled, and where she at last died.  It is a pleasant, comfortable home, about two miles below the village.

Mrs. Van Embergh was converted to God and joined the M.E. Church when but fifteen years of age. At the time she became a Methodist. This denomination was very weak and uninfluential, its members poor and scattered, its church edifices few and inferior, its ministers many of them illiterate and by the masses of the people it was considered almost disgraceful to be connected with this church.  But, notwithstanding all these disadvantages, she felt that this was her home and hence she cheerfully united with this despised people and for sixty-five years was a consistent member and a faithful Christian. She loved the house of God and was always there when it was possible. Frequently she attended amid difficulties that would have discouraged those less persevering.  She loved to do for the church financially and always did in this direction to the full extent of her ability.

But she manifested her religion at home as well as in the church. She was the mother of ten children, five of whom survive her.  Towards her children she was a true mother, making every possible effort to teach and train them for the service of God, and for lives of usefulness.  Her success may be seen in what they are today.  They are all prosperous in regard to this world, while they cherish a reverence for their mother and their mother's God.

She was a remarkably intelligent woman. She read many books, both old and new, besides the religious and secular papers, that she might keep up with the times; and being blest with a wonderful memory, was able to converse upon a great variety of subjects and impart instruction to others who either had not the time or inclination to read.  But her desire for intellectual culture did not cause her to neglect the everyday duties of home.  She was industrious, energetic and persevering in all of her undertakings, making home pleasant for husband and children, and continually exerting a salutary influence.  Moreover, her influence was extended beyond home in the community where she lived.  She was beloved by old and young, and middle aged.  All enjoyed visiting at her house, because of her social qualities, and the kindness of her heart.  She was ever looking after the poor, the sick and the suffering, thereby following the example of her Savior. Eternity alone will reveal how many she has thus relieved and comforted.

Of course, such a life always ends well.  She was patient and joyful during her last sickness, which lasted more than two months, often expressing confidence in her Redeemer, and hope in regard to the future.  At the last her life went out so quietly that the exact time of her departure was not known. She was left alone for a short time to rest, her friends supposing she was asleep; when they went to her couch again, to minister to her wants, they found she was no more.

"So fades a summer cloud away. / So sinks the gale when storms are o'er. / So gently shuts the eye of day. / So dies the wave along the shore."

Her funeral was attended on Saturday last, from her late residence, being followed to the grave by weeping and loving children and other friends.  On Sunday morning her pastor, Rev. Mr. Judd, preached a memorial sermon upon her life and character from the 37th verse of the 37th Psalm:  "Mark the perfect man and behold the upright, for the end of that man is peace."

The aged companion of the departed, now eighty-four years old, and very feeble, still lingers on this side of the tomb.  May the sympathies and prayers of this community be extended to him, in this time of his great sorrow.

It is due to the children of the deceased to say, that during the sickness of their mother, and at all other times, they have shown her every possible attention; doing their utmost to alleviate her sufferings and make her happy. And as further evidence of their genuine devotion, they furnished for the funeral a large number of beautiful wreaths, crosses and stars, exquisitely arranged in tin foil, with japonicas and evergreens.  Some of these were placed on the coffin during the services on Saturday and after the interment upon the grave.  Some of them were in the Methodist church, on the table in front of the pulpit, on Sunday morning, and afterwards given to friends of the deceased.

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Death of Hon. W.C. Thompson

We copy from the Watertown Daily Times [Jefferson Co. NY], of the 13th inst. the following mention of the death of Hon. W.C. Thompson, formerly a resident of this County [Chenango Co. NY], who died at his residence in that city on the night previous.  Judge Thompson was born in Burlington, Otsego County [NY] and removed to Otselic [Chenango Co. NY] when a young man, where he resided for several years, teaching school and reading law.  From Otselic he removed to Hamilton [Madison Co. NY] and then to Auburn [Cayuga Co. NY].  He leaves four brothers and three sisters - three brothers residing in Otselic, and one in Hamilton: two sisters in Otselic, and one in New Libson, Otsego County. Deceased will be remembered by many old residents of this County:

"Judge W.C. Thompson died at his residence in this city last night. An old affliction was aggravated by a trip to Ogdensburg about three weeks ago and resulted in his death at the age of about 66 years.  He had been a resident of the County since 1837, having come to Adams [Jefferson Co. NY] from Auburn, where he studied law. While in Adams he married the daughter of Hon. Thomas C. Chittenden, then Member of Congress from this District.  He practiced law in Adams until 1852 and then moved to Watertown, having been elected County Judge on the Democratic ticket the fall previous.  He succeeded Judge Lansing on the bench, and after serving one term of four years, was re-elected, served four years longer and was succeeded by Judge Wright. Since then, he has practiced law in Watertown.

"Judge Thompson had an extensive acquaintance and many warm friends.  He was a good lawyer and a good advocate.  He was ardent, enthusiastic, sympathetic, cheerful and genial.  He excelled as a conversationalist, and at time was really eloquent at the bar and on public occasions.  He joined the Republican party during the war and returned to the Democratic party after the Cincinnati convention of 1872.  He has done much effective campaign speaking for both parties.  He was a good citizen, a good neighbor and a good friend, and his unexpected death will cause much sincere sorrow in this community.  He leaves a wife and one son, the latter being a young man of high promise and one of the State Engineers on the canal."

News Item

 An Afflicted Family:  The family of our friend, Mr. C.P. Hyde, seems to have affliction after affliction.  Asa P. when only three and one-half years old, had his arm broken; when seven and one-half years old, had his leg broken, and three years ago dislocated his elbow.  Edwin A. when ten years old, was thrown from a load of lumber and broke his arm and caused several bruises.  Mr. C.P. Hyde, broke her left arm, and dislocated her wrist, January 25th, 1875, and on the 8th of this month, broke her right arm, and put her wrist out of joint.  Pitcher Register.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, January 1876 (continued)

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, January 13, 1876

Marriages

BRADLEY - LYNDE:  On Thursday evening, Dec. 30, 1875, at the residence of Mr. M.T. Lynde, Brooklyn, N.Y., by the Rev. Dr. John M. Buchanan, Henry C. Bradley of Milwaukee, Wis., to Clara B. Lynde, daughter of the Hon. William P. Lynde, of the same place.

BURTON - WAKELY:  In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 4 at the residence of Sidney Johnson, by Rev. J.W. Barr, Philander L. Burton of DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY], and Mrs. Olive W. Wakely, of Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY].

WEBSTER - WICKWIRE:  At the residence of the bride's parents at Smith's Valley [Schuyler Co. NY], Dec. 29th, 1875, by Rev. R.T. Cross, Edmund D. Webster of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] and Jennie L. Wickwire of Smith's Valley, N.Y.

Deaths

Pitcher, Chenango Co. NY:  Last Friday morning Mr. Joseph Burdick, near the Brackel, went out to harness his team, while doing so, he dropped down dead, instantly.  He was about 40 years of age and died, it is supposed, of heart disease.

Holmesville, Chenango Co. NY:  Miss Louise Rood, the young lady burned so seriously about two months ago, was buried on Sunday last, aged twenty-seven years.  Her death was sudden as her buns were supposed to be healing rapidly.  She has for years been subject to frequent spells of unconsciousness which were at last the cause of death.  The funeral services were held at the Baptist church, sermon by her pastor, J.H. Barnard of South New Berlin.

Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY:  Albert Lobdell, formerly of this village, died in Aylmer, Canada, January 6th.  The remains were brought to this place for interment.  The funeral services were conducted by the Masonic Order of which deceased was an honorable member, at Christ Church, on Saturday afternoon.

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Andrew Reynolds aged 10 years, a son of Mr. Thomas Reynolds, butter merchant whose place of business is under the First National Bank of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], and for some time a newsboy engaged in selling the Times upon the street, was run over on the Erie Railway, at the Front Street bridge, at about half-past twelve o'clock on Saturday, and so seriously injured that he died soon after.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, Jan. 12, 1875:  Andrew Reynolds, aged ten years, son of Thos. Reynolds, of Binghamton, was killed by the cars in that city on Saturday last.  He attempted to get onto a moving freight train and was struck by a bridge and thrown under the wheels.  He was a bright, promising lad, and a nephew of Wm. H. Doane, of this village [Oxford. Chenango Co. NY].

News Items

A Single Bridal Tour:  A veritable case of the bride's making her marriage tour alone, is brought to our notice, the incident transpiring in this immediate vicinity.  The knot, as it appears, was tied at Hamilton [Madison Co. NY], the happy groom residing in that section, the bride being, formerly at least, of Durhamville [Oneida Co. NY]. In accordance with arrangements planned previous to the nuptial rites, an uncle of the bride, living near the latter place had made provisions for a grand reception of the newly married pair, having not only put the house in order for a marriage feast, but going to the extent of inviting some twenty-five relatives and friends to the said merry making.  The day arrived and the party gathered.  In due time the bride made her appearance, but to the great astonishment of the house, and those assembled, she came alone!  Upon being questioned as to the meaning of this, the bride blushingly explained that she had left the groom, to whom that day united in the blest and blessful ties of wedlock, at home threshing!  Uncle W. the host, says this beats all the notions of wedding trips.  Just here it may be noted that the husband had promised that in the event of sleighing by New Year's he would come on to claim his better half.  Under present conditions it looks very much as though the bride would be compelled to remain away upon her wedding tour, or otherwise return as she came, alone.  Oneida Dispatch

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A family gathering took place at the house of J.S. Smith in Earlville [Madison Co. NY], on New Year's Day and evening, to celebrate the birthday of their mother, Mrs. John G. Smith, whose age was ninety years on that day.  She was born at cold Rain, Mass., and came to this town in 1806, where she married and has lived since.  She has four children living, three sons and one daughter; the oldest, Wm. G. Smith, resides in North Norwich, J.S. Smith and O.N. Smith in Earlville, and the daughter, Mrs. John S. Pratt in Port Byron, N.Y., who were all present with some of their children and grandchildren and other relatives and friends, who numbered forty that sat at the tables bountifully laden with baked turkeys, chicken pies, etc. and to all appearances it was met with a warm reception by all that surrounded the board. the mother Mrs. J.G. Smith, is now in usual health, so as to be about the house.

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A correspondent of the Utica Herald, sends the following account of a bloody transaction which took place at the village of Clockville, Madison Co., [NY], New Year's morning:

"This morning about one o'clock Christopher Van Slyke came home with his son, badly intoxicated, and thought he would celebrate the opening of the Centennial by firing a few guns.  He loaded his gun at first with blank cartridges and went outdoors and fired it off a few times.  Then he put in balls thinking it made a louder noise.  He then came into his house, loaded the gun again with a ball and asked his wife if he should fire it off in the house.  The gun was pointed towards her.  She had previously had some words with him about  a small canon he could not find.  He charged her with having sold it, and for that reason she thought he intended to shoot her.  she told hm not to fire the gun in the house.  He turned it then towards the bedroom door.  One of his older daughters (deaf and dumb) had retired, and another daughter, Emma [Van Slyke], 17 years of age, was sitting on the side of the bed, holding her little sister, four years old and facing the open bedroom door, where she could plainly see her father. As the father turned the gun from the mother towards the door, it was discharged, the ball passing through the left breast and heart of his daughter, Emma, who fell dead on the bed. The father claims that when he put the cap on the lock the hammer would not go down, and in trying to push it down, the gun went off; that it was an accident; that the stock of the gun was new, etc.  It is a sad and horrible affair. Emma, was a bright, intelligent girl, and her death, whether caused by accident or murder was directly chargeable to whiskey and drunkenness.  It is the first death of the kind in our community.  Hundreds have already visited the scene of the tragedy.  Mr. Van Slyke was immediately arrested.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, January 13, 1876

Marriages

 In New York City, Jan. 6th, by Rev. Geo. Nixon, Mr. A. Andrus of Poultney, Vt., and Miss Hattie Rogers of Whitney's Point [Broome Co. NY].

At Port Crane [Broome Co. NY], Dec. 30th, Mr. Avery Dart of Osborn Hollow [Broome Co. NY], to Miss Elizabeth Bunnell of Port Crane.

At Pleasant Hill [Broome Co. NY], Dec. 30th, Mr. H. Buney of Osborn Hollow [Broome Co. NY] to Miss Loretta Randall of the former place.

At Chenango Forks [Broome Co. NY], Dec. 25th, by Rev. G.A. Place, Mr. Albert Adams of Castle Creek [Broome Co. NY], and Miss Alice Cole of Chenango Forks.

In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], Jan. 1st, by Rev. Dr. Padlock, Mr Charles E. Darling of Colesville [Broome Co. NY] to Miss Mary Carter of Fenton [Broome Co. NY].

Death

In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], Jan. 10th, Mr. Gideon B. Miner, in the 77th year of his age, brother-in-law of Rev. A. Parker of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, January 1876

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, January 13, 1876

Marriages

VAN DUSEN - MAXFIELD:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 30th, by Rev. H.G. Meeker, Mr. Manzo Van Dusen to Miss Olive Sophia Maxfield all of Pharsalia.

ATKINS - LAMB:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 31st, by Rev. H.G. Meeker, Mr. Carlos Atkins to Miss Amelia M. Lamb, all of Pharsalia.

MONROE - SLATER:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 31st, by Wm. T. Priest, Esq., Mr. Israel Monroe to Miss Alice M. Slater, all of Pharsalia.

DAVY - YOUNGS:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 1st, by Rev. J. Davy, Mr. William H. Davy of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Sarah M. Youngs of Oxford.

COE - TOUEY:  In Christ's Church, Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 29th, by Rev. W. De. L. Wilson, Mr. Charles Coe to Miss Mary Touey, both of Guilford.

GREENE - PARSONS:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 3d, by Rev. A.B. Richardson, Mr. Ulysses T. Greene, of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Emma S. Parsons, of Bainbridge.

WAGNER - DEMING:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 1st, by Rev. Dr. Pattengill, Mr. William L. Wagner to Miss Cora A. Deming, all of New Berlin.

WILTSIE - PHILLIPS:  In South Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY], Jan. 2d, by Rev. O.K. Crosby, Mr. Lyman Wiltsie of Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Esther Phillips of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY].

SPICER - BUTTON:  In Columbus [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 31st by M.L. Jaquith, Esq., Mr. Edwin Spicer to Miss Philena A. Button, both of Columbus.

WOOD - FULLER:  In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], Jan. 10th, by Rev. Dr. Paddock, Mr. Azor Wood of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] to Mrs. Hannah M. Fuller of Binghamton.

MUSSON - SERGEANT:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 5th, by Rev. A. Lindsey, Mr. Uri B. Musson, of Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Mary A. Sergeant of South New Berlin.

MOODY - PHILLIPS:  In Schenandoah [Dutchess Co. NY], Jan. 1st, by Rev. L.I. Wells, Mr. Charles O. Moody, of Guilford to Miss Emma J. Phillips of the former place.

THOMAS - GREEN:  At the residence of the bride's father in Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], Dec. 29th, by Rev. EF. Eldredge, Mr. Augustus A. Thomas, to Miss Catharine L. Green, both of Butternuts.

Mt. Upton, Chenango Co. NY:  Mr. and Mrs. John Prentice celebrated their wooden wedding on Monday night of last week, it being the fifth anniversary of their marriage. They received a large number of fine presents, both ornamental and useful, and in return extended a generous hospitality to their guests, which was appreciated and enjoyed by all present.  All departed highly pleased with the entertainment, and wishing the happy couple many returns of the occasion.

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Silver Wedding:  The friends and relatives of William Smith and wife, of Preston [Chenango Co. NY], celebrated the twenty-fifth anniversary of their marriage at their residence, January 3d 1876.  Early in the day the friends began to assemble, and at noon the house was well filled, about one hundred guests being present, among whom were H.E. Howard, General Freight Agent Connecticut River Railroad, of Springfield, Mass. and M.M. Howard, Station Agent at Greenfield, Mass., brothers of Mrs. Smith; and A.N. Harrington and wife, of Orange, Mass., the latter a sister of Mrs. Smith.

At two o'clock P.M. the tables were spread with the choicest viands, including confectionery and tropical fruits, of which the guests made a sumptuous repast; while with the organ and splendid singers, beautiful music was kept up during the exercises at the table.  After which, Rev. J. Hurlburt, in a neat and appropriate address, presented by the happy couple with the elegant and costly present which the friends had selected, valued at about $125.  His remarks were responded to by the recipients, with feelings of the deepest gratitude.

To Mr. and Mrs. William Smith, on Their Twenty-Fifth Wedding Day

Dear Neighbors and friends, on this festive occasion, / Please accept our good wishes and congratulations. / That midlife's sorrows and joys, its trials and pleasures, / Hand in hand you have journeyed in such equal measure. / With love's labors unwearied, Till the peace that's perennial, / Till you've safely arrived to your Quarto-centennial.

May the years that remain pass as those gone before, / Rich in love and fidelity - who could ask for you more? / And when the pathway of wedlock you no longer rove, / May your souls reunite in the Eden of Love.  M.S.W.

[that the "printer was remembered," amidst the abundance of good cheer at the festive board on this occasion, the receipt of a generous loaf of cake was substantial evidence; and that the happy couple may live to celebrate their diamond wedding, is the wish of the Union, Ed.]

Deaths

BARBER:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 1st, Cynthia [Barber] wife of Horace Barber, aged 57 years.

DEITZ:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 5th, Edwin G. [Deitz] son of Irving W. and Antoinette N. Deitz, aged 3 years and 7 months.

WILLIAMSON:  In New Hartford, Jan. 7th of diphtheria, Myra Heaton [Williamson], daughter of C.H. Williamson, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], aged 14 years and 8 months.

LOBDELL:  In Aylmer, Canada, Jan. 6th, Mr. Albert Lobdell, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].

SCOTT:  In Chicago, Dec. 29th, of brain fever, Bertha [Scott] daughter of Henry C. and Lovica Scott, aged 6 years.

From the two bright little faces, one is gone, / Leaving all familiar traces here to mourn, / With their warm and best affections badly torn; / But 'twas Jesus came to take her to his home.

Weep not for your child departed!  She is free; / Evermore a shining angel she will be. / And no sickness, pain or sorrow ever see. / For in heaven she will ever wait for thee.

Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY]:  James Dunlap, son of John Dunlap, died last week, of consumption, at his home on Dunlap Hill.  He, with his brother David, about two years since went to California hoping that the change of climate would benefit them.  It failed to do so, however, as David died there, while James returned home to mingle his ashes with those of his other relatives who had already succumbed to the same terrible disease.

__________________________

RICH:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 28th, 1875, Mr. Ira P. Rich, aged 65 years, 10 months and 19 days.

If life is only a preparation for death, and that preparation consists in living uprightly, and leaving behind an unspotted character, then the subject of this memoir did not live in vain.

Ira P. Rich was born in Worcester County, Massachusetts, February 9, 1810.  When he was only a year old, his parents moved to South New Berlin, in this County, and purchased the farm south of Ambler's Settlement.  Here his father lived and died and here he grew up from childhood and passed his entire life.  In 1841 he married Fannie F. Freeman, of Cooperstown, Otsego County.  Five children were the fruit of this union, two sons and three daughters. Two of the daughters died before the age of womanhood; his wife died in 1864; and the remaining three children- Palmer C., Ransom and Angelia E. - still live together in possession of and occupying the homestead their grandfather purchased over sixty years ago. Thus, far nothing has separated the family but death.

Mr. Rich was highly esteemed in the community, as a Christian, upright and benevolent man.  He was particularly a friend to the poor and pecuniary assistance from him was never sought in vain.  As a public officer he had the confidence of all who knew him.  All objects of public interest received his attention and support.  He met nothing with brawling opposition, but everything like ostentation and parade he shunned with instinctive abhorrence.  All his acts had the charm of simplicity and his words the merit of truth.  He will ever be remembered by his fellow townsmen, as a man who was always faithful to his responsibilities, and true to his public trusts.  He was a man of but few words, but modest and unassuming in all his actions and bearings, yet he imposed no restraint on the sociality of those about him; on the contrary, he entered into it with genial humor and quiet enjoyment, and his native goodness of heart expressed itself in the few words he spoke.

Her health has gradually failed for the past year, yet he continued t go about the farm as usual, until the 25th of November; from that time he was obliged to keep to the house, his chair, and last his bed; and although he was encouraged some by his physicians, he well knew that the final hour was about to come, and he waited with calm, Christian resignation, and passed peacefully away, December 28th.

In his death his family have suffered an irreparable loss, and the community a man of sterling worth; but believing as we do in the immortality of the soul and justice meted out to us in another world, we feel that a good man has gone to his reward, and that his spirit is now where a tear is never shed, and a sigh never heard.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, December 1875 & January 1876

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, January 6, 1876

Marriage

TRACY - FRENCH:  At the M.E. Parsonage in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 4th, by Rev. W.J. Judd, Mr. Henry G. Tracy to Miss Ida E. French, both of North Norwich.

WEBSTER - WICKWIRE:  In Smith's Valley, Madison Co. [NY], Dec. 29th, by Rev. R.T. Cross, Mr Edward D. Webster of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Jennie L. Wickwire of the former place.

DENTON - PUTMAN:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 27th, by Rev. Pattengill, Mr. John R. Denton of Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Sarah J. Putman of New Berlin.

STONE - TARBELL:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 23d, by the Rector of St. Peter's Church, Mr. Theodore B. Stone of Wells Bridge [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Florence B. Tarbell of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

HOTCHKISS - GALE:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 22d, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Orange E. Hotchkiss to Miss Delett C. Gale, both of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY].

LEONARD - NICHOLSON:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 23d, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. James H. Leonard to Miss Ida S. Nicholson, both of Greene.

PORTER - HAIGHT:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 22d, by Rev. W.H. Gavitt, Mr. John M. Porter to Miss Jennis H. Haight, both of Greene.

BARNET - WARNER:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 27th, by Rev. W.H. Gavitt, Mr. George A. Barnet to Miss Carrie L. Warner, all of Greene.

PURRINGTON - CARR:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 27th, by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. James L. Purrington to Miss Charlotte L. Carr, both of German [Chenango Co. NY].

MOORE - PURDY:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 28th, by Rev. W. Burnside, Mr. Erwin G. Moore to Miss Eliza J. Purdy, all of McDonough.

____________________________

Twenty years ago, Daniel Beecher, Esq. of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], was united in marriage to Miss Betsey Parker, only daughter of the late Levi Parker, Esq. of that place.

On New Year's Eve, the twentieth anniversary of the wedding, their friends and neighbors of the Congregational Church and society came in upon them without previous warning, and in great numbers. Their surprise was still further increased, when they were presented with a beautiful set of China, numbering a hundred and twenty-one pieces, and a ten dollar note with which to purchase a pair of gold spectacles. The presentation was made by Rev. A. Crocker, pastor of the Chruch, in a neat and appropriate speech, which was feelingly responded to by Mr.  Beecher on the part of the recipients, in words which betokened how deep the emotions struggling for utterance within.

Mr. Beecher has been a member of the choir for over thirty years and most of the time its leader.  This is not the first substantial ...nifestation of the high esteem in which Mr. and Mrs. Beecher are held by the community in which they reside, nor are these the only tokens from the same course appreciative of their efficient aid in the services of church worship and sabbath school with which they are connected. May the lives of the useful and happy couple long be spared to enjoy many such "Happy Surprises."

Deaths

RATHBUN:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 1st, Mrs. Eliza Rathbun, aged 71 years.  Her remains were taken to McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] for interment.

NICHOLSON:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 1st, Mr. Martin Nicholson, aged 20 years.

TERWILLIGER:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 22d, Annie P. [Terwilliger] wife of Daniel S. Terwilliger, aged 58 years.

LASCHER:  In Columbus [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 5th, Mr. William Lascher, aged 86 years.

WHITTEN:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], of scarlet fever, Dec. 24th, Mary R. [Whitten] aged 6 years and 5 months; Dec. 25th, Andrew K. [Whitten] aged 4 years; Dec. 26th, Clara H. [Whitten], aged 16 years and 6 months, children of Andrew D. and Clarissa J. Whitten.

Greene, Chenango Co. NY:  Scarlet fever of a very malignant type, prevails in our midst.  Mr. A.D. Whitten, who resides on Capt. Lewis Juliand's farm, a short distance southeast of this village lost two children last week by this fearful disease.  The children were taken very violently and died very suddenly.  While these children were being buried on Sunday, an older sister, a young lady about 17 years of age, died of the same disease. this young lady was well on Friday and did the washing for the family.  At this writing, (Monday morning), Mr. Whitten has two more children lying at the point of death.  This is indeed an afflicted family.  Chenango American

Guilford, Chenango Co. NY:  It is with sadness that we record the death of one of our most estimable ladies, Mrs. A.P. Merchant, which occurred on the 29th ult.  Mrs. M. came among us upon her marriage with Mr. Merchant some eight or nine years ago and since then has endeared herself through her intelligence and kindness of heart to a large circle of friends and acquaintances.  For several years she has been a patient sufferer and not until recently has she given her earthly cares into the hands of others.  She was a sincere Christian and a devoted and affectionate wife and parent.  Thus, at an early age she is called from earth, leaving a husband and one child, together with many near friends to mourn her loss.

Otselic Center, Chenango Co. NY:  On Tuesday of last week, a venerable father of eighty-one years, Harris Coats, Esq., was borne to his grave.  He had resided at North West corner for many years preceding his death.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, January 6, 1876

Marriage

A very pleasant but rather uncommon affair took place in Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 7th.  Mrs. A. Stewart gave in marriage her two remaining daughters, Ida E. [Stewart] to Francis M. Gifford of Missouri, and Millie J. [Stewart] to Darius Davis of Lincklaen.  About ten o'clock of that day the friends began to gather in from the surrounding country and at 12 o'clock, the ceremony was performed by the Rev. Mr. Harroun, of North Pitcher, after which the tables were prepared and rich viands brought forward, which were freely partaken of by about sixty relatives.  Many fine presents were given by the friends on both sides, which consisted largely of silver ware.  Register

Deaths

BARBER:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 31st, Mrs. Horace Barber aged 56 years and 8 months.

DAVIS:  In So. New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 27, of extreme old age, Samuel Davis.

RICH:  In South New Berlin {Chenango Co. NY], Ira Rich aged 65 years and 10 months.

RICKARD:  At Beaver Meadow, Jan. 1, 1876, of inflammation on the lungs, Delancy A. [Rickard], son of Adam and Harriet Rickard, aged 4 months.

Another sinless one gone home / To the arms of the Heavenly Giver, / From ours, too weak to hold him here, / But we'd meet beyond the river.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 23, 1875

Marriage

At the residence of her sister, Mrs. R.A. Clark, in Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 13th, by Rev. R.A. Clark, Mr. A.E. Olmstead of Otego [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Julia A. Mason, of Westford, Otsego Co. [NY].

Death

In Marathon [Cortland Co. NY], Dec. 13th, Minnie A. [Cunningham], infant daughter of H.S. and A. Cunningham aged 1 month and 13 days.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 30th, 1875

Deaths

In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], suddenly, Dec. 27th, of malignant scarlet fever, Alice L. [Newton] daughter of Helam H. and Almira C. Newton, aged 13 years and 4 months.  Gentle, loving, patient and believing, she has gone to Christ in whom she trusted. We miss her but feel that our loss is heaven's gain.

In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 16th, Mr. Marvin Bennett, aged 75 years.

In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 22d, Mr. Aaron B. Main, father-in-law of Thomas Miller, of this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], aged 72 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, January 6, 1876

Marriages

At the Baptist Parsonage in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 30th, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Frank E. Osborne to Miss Sarah E. [Jackson] daughter of Mr. Oliver Jackson, both of this town.

Also, at the residence of the bride's father, Dec. 30th, by the same, Mr. Frank M. Sage to Miss Addie E. [Rorapaugh] daughter of Charles Rorapaugh, Esq. of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY].

In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], on Wednesday, Dec. 29, by Rev Jas. D. Webster, Mr. Dwight Hollingworth of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] to  Miss Helen M. Grant, of the former place.

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 30th, Cida Boughton, aged 2 years and 16 days, daughter of Geroge Boughton.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 29th, Wilson J. [Spencer] son of William Spencer, aged 9 years and 4 months.

Smyrna Citizen, Smyrna, NY, January 8, 1876

Marriage

BEERS - STAFFORD:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], Dec. 25th, at the residence of J. Rowley, by Rev. H.S. Jones, Mr. Charles Beers and Miss Calsina Stafford.  All of Earlville.

Chenango County in 1825 - by P.S. Norris

 Chenango County Half a Century Ago

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, December 30, 1875

Editors Chenango Telegraph:  In the fall of 1825, just fifty years ago, my father moved with his family from the county of Chenango to what was then called the "West," though it was only into Steuben County, about one hundred miles, the journey being made with his own team and a lumber wagon.  There were no buggies in those days; nor had such a thing as a railroad been heard of, or even imagined, anywhere in this part of the country.  Indeed, by far the largest part of Western N.Y. was still a wilderness, with a few remaining Indians and many wild bests in possession of the soil.  The Erie Canal was finished that same fall, though very few of the people in the southern tier of counties, or in the counties adjoining, knew or could imagine what sort of a thing a canal (or "canawl," as it was then more commonly pronounced) was.  I was then the only son of my parents, and a small boy at that; though I can distinctly remember the "make of the ground" in the vicinity where I was born and had lived until that time, and also many of the people, especially those who were relatives of both of my parents of whom there were quite a large number, including my grandparents on my father's side, and uncles, aunts and cousins on both sides. There were then six brothers, including my father, living in the county, most of them in the town of Smithville.  I had only visited Chenango once since we left there, until this fall - 1875.  That visit served to refresh my memory and renew my acquaintance with quite a number whose names and faces were thus indelibly impressed upon my mind, and I felt almost as if it was my home.  Some of my relatives, including my grandparents had been called from earth, while the number of relatives had greatly increased.

When I again visited the county this fall, the number of my relatives were indeed numerous, though most of my uncles and other old acquaintances had gone to the "land beyond the river."  Quite a number, however, still remain, whose names are almost as familiar as those of my own family.  This fall I found a host of friends, so many, indeed, that my limited time was too short to visit them all.  The fact that so many had gone, was a source of sadness.  But the great number whose friendship and hospitality I enjoyed, the beautiful scenery, the growth of villages, the railroads, the numerous improvements, &c., which attracted my attention and admiration, left but little time for sadness, or anything but pleasure, the memory of which will be fondly cherished until reason shall be dethroned.

Fifty years ago [1825], Chenango was, of course, a comparatively new country.  The inhabitants were then "clearing" their land, many farms being not more than half cleared, and considerable quantity of land was still unoccupied.  Norwich, Oxford and Greene were then small villages, thought the principal ones in the county.  Most of the other towns were without even a hamlet.  Now, the villages named have grown in population, wealth and business, to such dimensions that they would not be recognized by anyone who had not seen them between the above mentioned dates, and a large number of villages have sprung up in various parts of the county, until most of the towns have each a village, and some two or more.

The shade trees which now ornament and beautify the villages and some of the farms had no existence when I left your county, except in a very few instances.  It seems hardly possible that those trees now so large and beautiful, could have been planted and grown to their present size in what seems to me so short a time.  I have not seen in any part of the state villages that have received so much attention by way of planting shade trees.  I visited one farm in Smithville, upon which along the road, there is the most beautiful row of maples that I ever saw and judging from their size, I should say they are more than fifty years old.  If every owner of a farm or village lot had thus early planted a similar row of trees, what a beautiful country it would have made.

When I left Chenango, a large proportion of the farmers had but partially cleared their farms, while many others were just commencing.  Sugar making and "getting out flax" were then two branches of industry not to be neglected in the early Spring, and buying sugar was scarcely thought of by farmers.  If they failed to make sufficient for the use of their families, they were obliged to go without.  Now, at the end of half a century, few farmers have sufficient timber for the use of their farms, still fewer have any to spare. Many of the "sugar bushes" are long since in ashes and scarcely a family thinks of getting along without sugar, or most of the other luxuries, even when they have all to buy.  Now none but the older portion of the people know anything of "getting out flax." and that would be an unprofitable business now that cotton goods, thanks to our protective policy, are so abundant and so unparalleled low in price. Then, almost every dwelling possessed its spinning wheels, for both flax and wool, and most of the clothing, for winter and summer was manufactured by the family, from raw material produced upon each farm.  Few of those wheels, especially the wheel for flax, can now be found in the country, and few persons are there who know how to use them.  And not the least to be admired are the excellent sidewalks which prevail extensively in the villages made of large smooth stones taken from the quarries that abound in many of the towns.

I am so well pleased with the beauty and excellence of the farms and villages, the magnificent buildings, both public and private, the intelligence, friendliness, refinement and hospitality of the people, that I am almost tempted to return and again take up my residence in Chenango.  Respectfully, P.S. Norris

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, December 1`875 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, December 30, 1875

Marriages

PHETTEPLACE - HALE:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 23d, by Rev. W.J. Judd, Mr. David B. Phetteplace to Mrs. Rosetta M. Hale, both of Norwich.

DIBBLE - MORTON:  At the M.E. Parsonage, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 23d, by Rev. W.J. Judd, Mr. James Dibble to Miss Emma Morton, both of Norwich.

CHURCH - SHERWOOD:  At the residence of the bride's father, Dec. 21st, by Rev. C.H. Reynolds, Mr. Zenas S Church of Norwich [Chenanog Co. NY] to Miss Edith Sherwood, of Homowack, N.Y. [Sullivan Co. NY]

PRITCHARD - ATWOOD:  At the parsonage in Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 25th, by Rev. D.W. Bigelow, Mr. Willard L. Pritchard of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY] to Miss Jennie Atwood, of Pitcher.

IRELAND - GLYNN:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 26th, by Rev. J. Clark, Mr. William Ireland of Oswego [Oswego Co. NY], to Miss Olive S. Glynn  of the former place.

COATS - NORTON:  In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 24th, by Rev. A. Harroun, Mr. Harris Coats to Miss Helen Norton, all of Otselic.

HAZEN - FLETCHER:  In Sidney [Delaware Co. NY], Dec. 15th, by Rev. W.W. Curtis, Mr. William K. Hazen of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Cora E. Fletcher of Sidney.

WATROUS - BARNET:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 21st, by Rev. W.W. Gavitt, Mr. John H. Watrous of Winsor, N.Y. [Broome co. NY] to Miss Flora F. Barnet of Greene.

ROSE - FOWLER:  At the residence of the bride's father in Hamptonburgh, Orange Co. [NY], Dec. 22d, by Rev. S.C. Hepburn, Mr. Benjamin Rose, Jr., to Miss Mary E. Fowler, formerly of Coventry, N.Y.

Deaths

COOK:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 22d, Anna [Cook] wife of William Cook, aged 43 years.

LORD:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 24th, of pneumonia, Mrs. Livonia Lord, widow of David Lord, aged 70 years.

BENNETT:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 16th, Mr. Marvin Bennett, aged 75 years.

MAIN:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 23d, Mr. Aaron B. Main, aged 75 (?) years.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, December 30, 1875

Marriages

KENYON - GOODRICH:  At East Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 24, 1875, by W.H. Gunn, Esq., David Kenyon to Mrs. Elizabeth Goodrich, of Norwich.

DOLAN - SMITH:  In Pitcher, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], Dec. 23d, by Rev. Geo. P. Turnbul, Mr. Joseph Dolan of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss H.M. Smith, of German [Chenango Co. NY].

MACK - PARKER:  In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 23, 1875, at the residence of the bride's father by Rev. J.W. Barr, Mr. Charles W. Mack, of Georgetown [Madison Co. NY] and Miss Edna M. Parker, of Otselic.

Deaths

George Healey, who died at Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY] a short time since was a young man of great promise and was well known in this town, having many relatives residing here.

Many hearts were pained to learn of the untimely death of Samuel McDonald who was drowned on Lake Ontario the 30th ult.  For a year or more he was conductor on the gravel and wood train on the DeRuyter Branch and was a genial whole souled fellow.

Wm. Cowen, for a long time a resident of Hamilton [Madison Co. NY], died at the house of Leroy Clark on Wednesday evening of last week at the age of 88 years.  He was a veteran of the war of 1812.  He was buried in the cemetery at Hamilton on Friday.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, December 29, 1875

Death

SMITH:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], Mrs. Abigail Smith aged 75 years.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, December 25, 1875

Marriage

Married:  At the Delaware House, on the evening of the 18th inst. by C.T. Alverson, Esq., Prof. Erwin Malette of Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Mary Fellows of Quaker Street.  They are married, God bless them / Let no questions be asked.

Death

BENNETT:  In Portage Dec. 19th, 1875, Andrew B. Bennett, well known in this vicinity.

Vital Records, Norwich, NY, December 1875 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, December 23, 1875

Marriages

JOHNSON - JOHNSON:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 5th, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. Jonathan D. Johnson of Norwich to Miss Ellen M. Johnson of Guilford Centre [Chenango Co. NY].

ALLEN - MARSHALL:  In Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 6th, at the residence of the bride's parents, by Rev. Ira Day, Mr. Jay D. Allen to Miss Elsona E. Marshall, both of Lincklaen.

BOWEN - LOVEJOY:  At the residence of O.S. Huffman, Esq., in Mt. Upton [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 21st, by Rev. E.P. Eldredge, Mr. Adelbert C. Bowen of Mt. Upton, to Miss Olivia J. Lovejoy of Deposit, Pa.

RICHMOND - ROCKFELLER:  At the home of the bride's father, in Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], Dec. 7th by Rev. E.P. Eldredge, Mr. Leroy H. Richmond, to Miss Almira Rockfeller, both of Butternuts, Otsego Co.

WELLS - WILLMARTH:  At the residence of James D. Willmarth in Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 16th, by Rev. D.W. Bigolow, Mr. Herert H. Wells to Miss Emogene H. Willmarth all of Pitcher.

OGDEN - WHITCOMB:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] Dec. 21st, by Rev. R.W. Caswell, Mr. Irvine Ogden to Miss Amelia Whitcomb, both of Guilford.

HARVEY - PARKER:  At the residence of Delos Hicks in Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 21st, 1875, by Rev. L.H. Robinson, Mr. Franklin Harvey to Miss Adelia D. Parker, both of Pharsalia.

Deaths

PALMER:  In North Norwich, Nov. 14th, Dr. Chauncey Palmer, aged 57 years.

BELL:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] Nov. 27th, Mrs. Pyrtina Bell aged 63 years.

WILCOX:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 14th, Mr. N. Ray Wilcox aged 55 years.

George H. Steele, a rinter, formerly of Utica [Oneida Co. NY] and son of George l. Steele formerly of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], died in New york on the 13th inst.

_______________________________

CURTISS:  In North Greece, Monroe Co. [NY], Dec. 17th, Mr. William H. Curtiss aged 22 years, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

The announcement of the death of this young man will cause a feeling of sadness in the hearts of many in this community.  His earlier years were passed at White Store, in this town; and upon arriving at the proper age, he entered the office of the Chenango Telegraph, as an apprentice, where he faithfully served his time, and afterwards worked as a journeyman. On the day before Christmas, one year ago, he left for the home of his parents, who had recently removed to Monroe County [NY], for the purpose of spending the holidays with the intention of returning to his work again.  Immediately after reaching home, he was attacked by fever, which prostrated him for months; then an abscess in his hip developed itself, and he was a invalid until his death, which was probably hastened by the opening of the abscess some three weeks since.

Young Curtiss was universally esteemed for his many noble qualities of head and heart, and among his youthful associates he was a general favorite.  His remains, accompanied by his stricken parents, arrived in this village on the Tuesday morning D.L.&W. train, and Alert Hose company, of which deceased was an honored member, turned out and met the remains of their late comrade at the depot, and escorted the funeral procession to the outskirts of the village, towards White Store, where all that was left of poor Will was deposited in the family burial ground, on today afternoon, Peace to his ashes!

____________________________

ROSS:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 21st, Mr. Augustus Ross in the 84th year of his age.

Deceased was born in Burrillville, R.I. December 31st, 1791.  In 1797(?) he came with his mother to this County, and settled on the farm called the Gideon Cook farm, in what was known as "Rhode Island Settlement" in the east part of the town of Norwich.  There he remained for three or four years, when, with his mother and step-father (Nathan Aldrich) he moved to the farm now occupied by Christopher Frink, in Norwich, where he made it his home until June 3d, 1819, when he married Miss Lois Slater of Preston, and commenced housekeeping on the farm adjoining the one where he first lived in this County.  Here he resided until the spring of 1835(?). when he removed to Preston upon the farm where his wife's father (Isaac Slater) first settled.  January 6th, 1844, his wife died leaving nine children, the youngest being at that time five years of age.  He still remained on that farm until 1871 when he and five of his children moved upon the farm joining the old one where he died.

Mr. Ross may well be called a self-made man.  Born of poor parents, he struggled with the hardships incident to the early settlement of the country and by patient toil and careful management he became the possessor of hundreds of broad acres on the Preston hills, whose well-kept fields were dotted with some of the best stock ever raised in Chenango County, as those who have attended our County Fairs in years gone by will well remember.  He was a modest, unassuming man, genial in his intercourse with the world, of the strictest integrity in all his dealings and while his labors were blessed with plenty, he did not forget those who were less favored, but was ever ready to help those in affliction and distress.  He lived to see grow up around him manly sons and affectionate daughters, and he goes peacefully to his rest, after a long and well-spent life, mourned by his family and friends, and respected by the entire community.

Deceased was a soldier in the war of 1812 and was in the battle where Gen. Brock was killed.  He was a lifelong Democrat and has filled many offices of trust in his town.  He leaves surviving him nine children:  Mrs. Blin Harris, of this village; William Ross, who resides upon the home farm in Preston; James M. Ross, of this village; Ely Ross, of South Plymouth; Isaac Ross, Almira Ross, Mrs. Lydia Noyes, Lois Ross, and Augustus Ross, Jr.  A half-brother and three half-sisters also survive him; Nathan Aldrich, Greene; Mrs. John Gross, Greene; Mrs. Benjamin Evans, Norwich; Mrs. William Gross, Norwich.

Although his health had been poor for some time, he suffering from a kidney complaint, it was not until within the past two weeks that his symptoms were alarming.  While he endured much pain during his illness, he was evidently conscious to the last and passed away without a struggle.  His funeral will take place on Friday, at 11 o'clock A.M.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, December 23, 1875

Deaths

RAYMOND:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], on the 17th inst. of a protracted illness, Miss Emma A. [Raymond] daughter of Daniel L. and Clarrisa Raymond, aged 14 years and 6 months.

Emma's death-veil hath gathered at last, / The chilling seal has stamped her brow. / Her tender heart's mournful dream is past, / The golden chords are severed now.

The spirit of the heavenly throne / Received her with angelic light, / And mercy, on love's wings, hath flown / to guide the soul's mysterious flight.

DAVIS:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 9, of consumption, John R. Davis aged 31 years.

In Memory of Mattie Clark

We miss thee, Mattie, every week, / As we gather Sabbath morning / We love that smiling face to greet, / As each their classmates love to meet, / With hurried steps and willing feet, / To the Chruch on Sabbath morning.

We miss thee, Mattie, every day, / At our public hall of learning / Just budding like the rose in May / A transient beauty of a day / A blight has come, She's passed away, / from this class in the hall of learning.

We miss thee, Mattie, every hour, / In the house you've left forever / The mother's cherished lovely flower, / A help in every shadowed hour, / Death, with unrelenting power, / Broke love's tender cord forever.

We will meet thee, Mattie, by-and-by / At your dying last request. / Where we'll hear no mourner's sigh. / No breaking of the tender tie / Where we shall never, never die / But ever be among the blest

Written by Marilla Whitman

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

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, December 16, 1875

Marriages

GIFFORD - STEWART:  In Linklean [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 7th, by Rev. A. Harroun, Mr. Francis M. Gifford of Edina, Mo., to Miss Ida E. Stewart, of Linklean.

DAVIS - STEWART:  In Linklean, Dec. 7th, by Rev. A. Harroun, Mr. Darius Davis to Miss Millie T. Stewart, both of Linklean.

Deaths

DEXTER:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 7, suddenly, of apoplexy, Mrs. Sally Dexter, widow of the late Shelden Dexter, aged 73 years.

VAN VLEET:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Friday, dec. 10th, Mrs. Ann VanVleet, aged 55 years.  Mrs. Ann Van Vleet was the mother of Mr. James Van Vleet of this village and had resided in our midst for many years.  She was an estimable lady and form her occupation was most invaluable in our community.  wherever there was sickness or suffering she was at its side, administering with a gentle, loving hand to it.  How many families in our village will miss her kind offices.

HALL:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Thursday, the 9th inst., Warren Hall, aged 77 years.

Warren Hall died on Wednesday Dec. 8th, after a lingering illness at his residence in this town.  Mr. Hall was one of the pioneers who early settled the County, having located upon the farm on which he died when he first came to this country.  We are not familiar with his early history and hence cannot speak in regard to it.  Within our remembrance, however, Mr. Hall has been one of the strong men of our town.  Possessed of a more than ordinary intellect, he had accumulated a fund of information which never failed him, and which stamped him as one of the few men who amid the toils of farm life, found time to enrich his mind with useful knowledge aside from that pertaining to his avocation.  Socially, Mr. Hall was a favorite, while in his business affairs he was uniformly correct and upright.  Thus, one by one the pillars of the past are crumbling and the young crowd forward to fill their places.  Mr. Hall had reached the extreme age of 77 years.  He was a brother of Mr. C.M. Hall, of this village.

____________________

CLOSE:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on the 9th inst., by accident, Rawson Close, aged 53 years.

In another column of today's Telegraph, we give the sad particulars of the awful catastrophe which resulted in the horrid death of Mr. Rawson Close.  From his position in the community, his long residence among us, and his standing socially as well as a businessman, something more is called for from our hands.

Mr. Close was born at Amsterdam, in this State, and went early to Cortland where he learned the Cabinet Maker's trade.  At the conclusion of his apprenticeship, having shortly before attained his majority, he came to this village in company with Mr. Albert Carey and formed a partnership in the furniture business with Mr. David Barber, the firm being Barber & Close.  In a year or two that firm was dissolved and Mr. Close went to Syracuse with the intention of establishing himself in the Piano manufacturing business.  Soon, however, he abandoned that and returned to this village and again embarked in the furniture business with Mr. Cary, and at once entered upon a large and successful business.  In a few years he bought Mr. Careys interest, and up to within a year or two has, with the aid of one of his sons, carried on the business alone, being succeeded about a year since by his son Henry in partnership with Mr. Rathbun.

During his long residence here, Mr. Close has been a good citizen, always ready to take upon himself his full share of the burdens of community, and as his business success increased, this disposition did not dimmish with him.  Whatever he could do to advance the interests of our village he was always ready to do, and his business dealings were characterized by an honesty and integrity which we never heard brought in question.  In his social life he was genial and pleasant, and had strong power of attraction for his associates and friends.  Later in life disease of a nervous nature fastened itself upon him, and under its influence, he was prone to look upon the dark side of the picture, and at times appear downcast.  He was a kind and affectionate father and husband, and leaves surviving him his wife, a daughter of the late Lyman Brooks, who enjoys the respect and sympathy of the entire community in her great affliction.  Three sons and one daughter are bereft by this sad stroke of the advice and counsel of a father, the daughter being of young and tender years, who, as well as the mother, is in feeble health.

The funeral was attended on Saturday afternoon from his late residence, Rev. Mr. Scoville officiating.  The large attendance of our businessmen at the funeral attested the high appreciation in which the deceased was held by them as well as their sympathy with the family in their affliction.

__________________________

On Wednesday, Dec. 1st, Mr. Allen Halbert of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY], started in the morning for Weaver's Mill, about 1-1/2 miles from home, apparently in good health.  When he arrived at the mill, he did not reply to any question asked him.  After waiting a short time, he started homeward and when near the Cheese Factory, Mr. Colegrove spoke to him asking him if he wanted to buy some pork.  He stopped, dropped him head, but made no reply.  Mr. Colegrove asked other questions, and receiving no answer thought all was not right and he got into the wagon and accompanied him home.  His brother, Dr. Halbert of Cincinnatus, was summoned and it was found that he was suffering from a stroke of paralysis and was failing fast.  His sons in Binghamton were notified and have been at his side to minister to his wants, but he died on the morning of the 8th instant, being int he 69th year of his age.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 16, 1875

Marriages

At the residence of Mr. A. Boyce, in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 9th, by Rev. A.B. Dilley, Mr. J.G. Limberger to Miss Susie Boyce, all of this village.

At the residence of Henry Marvin, in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 8th, by Rev. W.H. Gavitt, Mrs. Adolphus Hubbard to Miss Amelia Baldwin, all of Greene.

Death

The Binghamton Times, of Saturday says"  Fred'k Mead, proprietor of the spring house at Vallonia Springs [Broome Co. NY], was instantly killed by the cars yesterday at 4:40 p.m. at Afton [Chenango Co. NY].  Mead, in company with two men named William Page and Laverne Sanders, attempted to cross the Albany and Susquehanna track with his team, ahead of extra coal train No. 18, Spencer conductor and Spaulding engineer. The engine struck the team and threw Page and Mead upon the track, instantly killing Mead and seriously injuring Page.  Sanders saved himself by jumping from the wagon.  One of the horses was killed the other was uninjured.  Mead lived three miles below Afton, on the opposite side of the river.  Mr. Mead formerly lived in this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] and married a daughter of Thomas W Harrington.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, December 18, 1875

Marriages

SOULE - BRESEE:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 15th inst., by Rev. G.R. Burnside, Mr. Edwin E. Soule of Otselic [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Eva M. Bresee of this place.

MAIN - WHITMORE:  At the M.E. Parsonage, in this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 14th inst. by Rev. S.W. Weiss, Mr. Edwin R. Mian and Miss Nora Whitmore, both of Columbus [Chenango Co. NY].

FOOTE - WESTCOTT:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 15th inst., by Rev. Dr. G.L. Burrows of Oswego, Mr. Jay Foote ad Miss Ida F. Westcott of th is place.

Wednesday morning, the 15th inst., Mr. J. Foote led to the altar Miss Ida F. the accomplished daughter of Mr. Eli Westcott of this town.  The occasion was one of unusual brilliancy.  Rev. Dr. J.L. Burrows of Oswego officiated, and a choice circle participated in the festivities.  A large number of gifts were presented the bride by her numerous friends as testimonials of their regard and admiration; among them were a beautiful set of furs, an elegant chamber set and a variety in gold and silver, both useful and ornamental.  Mr. F. and his bride took their departure immediately after the ceremony for New York city and New Jersey, on a bridal tour, and will be absent during the holidays.

____________________________

Crystal Wedding:  One of those happy events known as Crystal Weddings transpired at the residence of Mr. William Skinner, on the 7th inst.  Over sixty guests assembled, some of them from Delaware and onondaga Counties, to pay their respects to Mr. Skinner and wife, Alvira C., who were united in marriage fifteen years ago, and congratulate them on their journey.  Many of them were acquaintances from youth, and liberal presents of silver and glass were left with Mr. and Mrs. Skinner as a seal of continued friendship.  The reception was in every way characteristic of the freedom and generosity of the host and hostess, The table being spread with every procurable luxury, gotten up in the most tempting style of epicurean art, and thoroughly enjoyed by the participants.  The following poem contributed by one of the guests was no slight addition to the enjoyment of the occasion:

There was a house standing on a knoll, / Where William often took a stroll; / He was bound not to get beat, / So he would often stay a week; He took her tiny white hand so true, / And thought to himself that would do. / Fifteen years ago, there is those that can remember, / That Bill and Tent were married on the fifth of December / 

For she could wash and do the mopping, / And, if necessary, do a little chopping; / And she is a good hand at baking and mending.

So Bill has invited his friends to his crystal wedding.  / There is his nephews and his nieces, / They are bound to tear everything to pieces; / They are bound to have a good time, / And make everything come in a rhyme.

We have all eat our fill of oysters and cakes, / Which any good judge would say are well baked; / So, Good-bye ladies, good-bye, gents, / We are all glad that we came down to Tent's. / Poetry, you know is not raised like corn, / So you can't expect much from a greenhorn.  S.B.A.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, December 18, 1875

Marriage

OLENDORF - SMITH:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 4th, 1875, by Rev D.C. Haynes, Mr. James H. Olendorf and Miss Bertha F. Smtih, both of Afton [Chenango Co. NY].

Death

On Tuesday morning, about daylight, Mr. Martin Olds, in company with Del. Woods and Chauncey Wilsey, left town for the purpose of chopping wood about two miles distant.  About 11 o'clock, by some means, Mr. Olds, while chopping, let his axe slip and striking the instep of his foot cut a deep gash and severed the main artery. The other men not knowing what to do, and instead of sending immediately for physician, they put him on a wagon and conveyed him to the house of John Shaver, about a mile distant, and then sent for Dr. Meacham.  During his ride in the wagon so much blood escaped form the wound that he died a short time after entering the house and before a physician could arrive.  His remains were conveyed to his home in this village on the evening of the same day.  He leaves a wife and one child.

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

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, December 16, 1875

Marriages

HAIGHT - SALSMAN:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 8th, by Rev. W.J. Judd, Mr. John A. Haight to Mrs. Eliza E. Salsman, all of Norwich.

BRONSON - FOOTE:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 8th, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. LaFayette Bronson to Miss Lucinda A. Foote, both of North Brookfield, Madison Co. [NY].

COY - GATES:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 8th, by Rev. A.B. Jones, Mr. Henry F. Coy to Miss Adelia H. Gates, all of Pharsalia.

KENNIER - CLINE:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 30th, by Rev. R.A. Clark, Mr. Andrew J. Kennier to Miss Matilda Cline both of Smithville.

Deaths

CLOSE:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Thursday evening, Dec. 9th, Mr. Rawson Close, aged 53 years.

ROGERS:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 9th, Mr. Watson W. Rogers, aged 28 years.

VAN VLEET:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 10th, of paralysis, Mrs. Ann Van Vleet, aged 55 years.

"Farewell!  A little time, and we / Who knew thee well, and joyed thee here, / One after one shall follow thee / As pilgrims through the gate of fear, / Which opens on eternity."

HALL:  In this town, Dec. 9th, Mr. Warren Hall, aged 77 years.

Mr. Hall was born in Stonington, Conn., March 14th, 1796.  In the fall of 1808, he moved to Pharsalia, in this county, about two miles east of the Centre Road, where he resided three years. At that time the nearest neighbor lived three miles distant.  He removed to the farm in Norwich, east of the village, in 1811, and for the period of sixty-four years, until his death, he remained upon the place.  He was an honest man, respected by the community in which he has passed the most of his life, and his death is mourned by many relatives and friends.

Frederick L. Mead, proprietor of the Vallonia Springs Hotel [Broome Co. NY], was instantly killed by the cars, at Afton [Chenango Co. NY], on Friday afternoon of last week.  He, with William Page and Andrew L. Sanders, all of Vallonia Spings in the town of Colesville, Broome County [NY], was crossing the railroad track with a team and a light spring wagon belonging ot Mr. Page when they were struck by an extra coal train.  Mead was instantly killed, his head being badly crushed.  Page was seriously injured.  Sanders escaped by being thrown from the wagon, and one of the horses was killed.  Coroner Hand held an inquest on Monday and the verdict of the jury censures Mr. Page for culpable carelessness in driving towards the railroad crossing, while the train was approaching.

William K. Race keeper of the Race Place Hotel, Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], was found dead in his bed about nine o'clock Sunday evening.  He had been upon the street until after eight o'clock. when he returned home, and feeling unwell, lay down.  He had been in poor health for several years.  We believe Mr.  Race was a son of the late William Race, who resided some four miles up the river.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, December 16, 1875

Terrible Casualty! Rawson Close Burned to Death!

Between five and six o'clock on Thursday evening last, an alarm of fire was given, when the firemen with their apparatus proceeded to the point indicated, on East Street.  It proved to be the barn of Rawson Close, which was enveloped in Flames before the arrival of the firemen.  Deluge hand engine was placed at the well on the premises and did good execution towards extinguishing the fire, while the steamer was located at the canal bridge and soon sent a powerful stream upon the burning building.

When it was stated that Mr. Close was undoubtedly in the barn, he having but a few moments before entered the building with a lantern for the purpose of putting out his horse which he had been driving, the large assemblage present were thrilled with horror, and the efforts of all were redoubled to extinguish the flames, and if possible rescue the remains of the unfortunate man from the ruins.

From the roof of the carriage house on the west side of the barn, some of the firemen saw lying upon the hay on the second floor of the barn, what was believed to be the remains.  At that time the inside of the building was one sheet of flames.  Ed Greenman, foreman of Alert Hose Company, procured a hook, and drew the charred remains from the building, when they were taken in charge by Albert Cary, undertaker, who at once conveyed them to his rooms, where they were properly cared for.

On Friday, Coroner Hand called an inquest at Mr. Cary's rooms, on East Street, and the following gentlemen composed the jury:  Nathan P. Wheeler, George A. Wilson, Edwin Smith, Milton Wicks, Frank Buell, Joseph Morse.....the verdict of the jury was that "Rawson Close came to his death casually, accidentally, and by misfortune, and not otherwise."

From the evidence given, and the circumstances attending this most heart-rendering calamity, there can be no doubt that the verdict of the coroner's jury is correct, that it was the result of an accident.  While there are several theories as to how this accident occurred, which will probably forever remain a mystery, the most rational view of the case is, that Mr. Close went into the hayloft, with a lantern, for the purpose of feeding his horse, and that the lantern came apart, setting fire to the hay and straw, in attempting to extinguish which he was suffocated, and was past help before it could possibly have reached him.  Another theory is, that he was taken with a fit, he having on one or more previous occasions been thus attacked, and that he fell helpless among the combustible material around him, which was fired by the lantern breaking or separating.

Nothing within our recollection has caused such a gloom in this community as the shocking death of Mr. Close, who was one of our most respected citizens, and whose untimely and tragic death comes close home to a large circle of friends and acquaintances.  Deceased was a native of Amsterdam, Montgomery Co., [NY] which place he left at an early age and served an apprenticeship in the cabinet making business in Cortland, from which place he came to Norwich, nearly twenty-eight years since, and with D.N. Barber, also of Cortland, established himself in the furniture trade, which, with but slight intermission, owing to ill health, he had successfully continued until his death.  His close attention to business and his uprightness and integrity in all his dealings were rewarded by a competency.

Deceased leaves surviving him, an invalid widow and daughter with three sons.  The sympathies of the community go out to the afflicted family, in this their hour of terrible bereavement.

Funeral services were held at the late residence of the deceased on Saturday afternoon last and were conducted by Rev. S. Scoville.  A large number of our citizens were in attendance, as were also two brothers of the deceased, one from Amsterdam, and one from Schenectady.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, December 15, 1875

Marriages

KINCH - BURKETT:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 30, by Rev. J.C. Ward, Mr. Horton E. Kinch of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Matilda Burkett of Oxford.

Variety Wedding:  Mr. and Mrs. Wheaton J. Race celebrated the tenth anniversary of their wedding at their residence, in the south part of this town, on the afternoon and evening of Dec. 4th.  A bountiful supper was served, to which ample justice was done by the company, which consisted of upwards of eighty invited guests, friends and relatives of the family.  It is unnecessary to say that a very pleasant time was the result.  We regret however to record the unfortunate, yet we hope it will prove brief, illness of Mrs. Race at the time, but feel assured that when she comes to take a peep into her parlor, literally filled with presents both useful and ornamental, which speak better than words of the kind regards of true friends, it will "do good like a medicine."  Prosperity to the happy pair, and may they live to see many happy returns of their wedding anniversary.

Death

Mr. John Griggs, well known throughout the Chenango Valley, died suddenly at the Park House in this village [Hamilton, Madison Co. NY], Wednesday morning with hemorrhage of the lungs.  He retired Tuesday night in his usual health but when he came downstairs in the morning he was bleeding at the lungs and was very weak.  He was found lying at the foot of the stairs in a helpless condition and before medical aid could reach him, he was dead.  He had been bleeding in his room, and the hallway and stairs were covered with blood.  Mr. Griggs had been a resident of Hamilton for about 35 years.  His wife died a number of years ago and is buried at Columbus, Chenango County [NY], where his two daughters reside.  Hamilton Vol.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, December 1875

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 2, 1875

Death

One of the passengrs on board the ill-fated steamer Pacific, which was lost a few days ago between Victoria and San Francisco, with all on board, was Mr. J.D. Cowles, of Greene, Chenango Co., N.Y.  Only those who in their schoolboy days have had a companion they loved as a bother can imagine our feelings when we learned the startling intelligence.  "Dallie" was one of those with whom we formed a strong attachment in our boyish days, and although years have passed since last we met, that attachment was never weakened.  His untimely end has cast a gloom over us; it calls up the boyish face and laughing eye, the last impression he left on our mind.  Ah well, such is life. Who knows which of us will be called next.  New London (Wis.) Times.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, December 2, 1875

Marriage

At the residence of the bride's parents in Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 20th, by Rev. R.A. Clark, Mr Andrew J. Kanier to Miss Matilda Cline, both of Smithville.

Deaths

In Texas Valley [Cortland Co. NY], Nov. 25th, Frankie [Borden], youngest son of George W. and Ann Eliza Borden aged 1 year 9 months and 15 days.

In Chenango Forks [Broome Co. NY], Dec. 1st, Mr. Edwin F. Chamberlain, aged 79 years.

In German [Chenango Co. NY], Dec. 1st, Mrs. Ocelia [Bolt] wife of Merrick Bolt, aged 29 years.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, December 11, 1875

Marriage

BLANDING - RHODES:  At the residence of the bride's father in Earlville [Madison Co. NY], on the 8th inst., by Rev. G.R. Burnside, Mr. Lucian Blanding, of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], and Miss Alice M. Rhodes, of Earlville.

A brilliant wedding occurred in Earlville on the 8th inst.  Mr. Lucien Blanding of this town was united by the "golden bonds" to Miss Alice M. Rhodes of the former place.  The Rev. G.R. Burnside officiated.  The invited guests who assembled to witness the ceremony and extend their congratulations speak in the highest terms of admiration of the appearance of the bride, the bearing of the bridegroom and the courteous and luxurious reception given them.  Many and various were the elegant tokens of affectionate esteem showered upon the bride.  A magnificent Steinway piano, valued at $600, was presented by Mr. Isaac Andrews; a splendid set of mink furs was presented by Mrs. French, an elegant gold watch and chain was presented by the bridegroom, and a large variety of silver articles were presented by other friends of the bride, all of which were rich devices emblematic of the estimation in which she is held by those who know her best.  The festivities were enjoyable in every respect, the whole affair being most auspicious of a pleasant voyage on the matrimonial seas.

Death

REXFORD:  In this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 5th inst., Mr. Allen Rexford, aged 84 years.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, December 11, 1875

Marriage

Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY]:  Married on Wednesday evening at 7 o'clock at the Delaware House in this place by C.T. Alverson, Esq., John N. Dunlay to Hannah Shearn, both of this place.

Deaths

Sidney Plains (Delaware Co. NY]:  We lament the loss of one more of our old citizens.  Last Friday morning Deacon W.A. Hutchinson breathed his last.  He leaves a great many friends to mourn his loss.  His remains were taken to Columbia County for burial.

On the 14th ult. at midnight, Joseph W. Freiot, M.D., a venerable citizen of this place, suddenly departed this life on the 74th anniversary of his birth.

Dr. Freiot was born in Pittstown, Rensselaer County, N.Y., Nov. 14th, A.D. 1801, and died at his home in Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Nov. 14th, 1875, his mortal days consequently numbering more than the three score and ten years which the Psalmist mentions as the limit beyond which but few men pass.

Dr. Freiot studied medicine and graduated under the distinguished Dr. Valentine Mott, of New York city.  He entered upon his professional career in New Orleans, and afterwards established himself in the practice of his profession in the city of Troy, N.Y., where he remained until he removed to Bainbridge. At Bainbridge, agriculture chiefly engaged his attention.

Dr. Freiot outlived six of his children, and died leaving a widow, a son and daughter, and several grandchildren to mourn his loss.

During the latter years of his life his mental powers were impaired by disease, but his affections remained as strong and active as ever.

In the year A.D. 1859 Dr. Freiot received the Rite of Confirmation at the hands of Bishop DeLancey, and became a communicant of St. Peter's parish, Bainbridge, and on the 16th day of last month, by the present rector of that parish, and in the presence of his brethren and neighbors, his mortal remains were committed to the earth in St. Peter's Church cemetery, in the hope of a coming resurrection unto eternal life.