Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, April 1877 (continued)

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 5, 1877

Marriages

At the M.E. Parsonage, Triangle [Broome Co. NY], March 23, by Rev. George C Andrews, Mr. Peter Johnson to Amy A. Eggleston, all of Triangle.

In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], March 22, by Rev. E.T. Jacobs, Mr. D.A. Hyde to Miss Angelia Johnston, both of Afton.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, April 5, 1877

Marriage

On Thursday, March 22d, 1877 in Milford, N.Y. [Otsego Co.], at the residence of the bride's parents by Rev. S.C. Van Camp, Nelson Scott of Milford and Miss Kate L. Goodrich youngest daughter of Chauncey Goodrich, Esq.

Deaths

At Edgewater early Easter morning, Mary Ann [Purpelly], wife of John Purpelly and daughter of the late Surgeon Lyman Foot, U.S.A.

Born at Fort Crawford, Wisconsin, when this was a frontier post, her infancy was surrounded by the rude accompaniments of Indian and early settler life.  Upon the breaking out of the Florida war, Dr. Foot removed his family to Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY], where the subject of this sketch grew up to womanhood.  Passing much of her early life in this village, she was well known to many here, while numerous friendships formed in other places often called her hence.  To all she was known for her sprightliness of manner, for her quick and ready wit, and for her varied accomplishments which served to entertain and enliven all those with whom she was associated.  Had she chosen to make use of her talents for the benefit of the public, a career of successful authorship would have been opened before her.  But frequent and long endured period of ill health, and the many vicissitudes of a somewhat chequered life prevented.

Her characteristics of mind and heart shone forth in the intense sufferings of her final sickness of more than a year's duration.  Of strong and resolute will, of unwonted cheerfulness when all around were sad and of patience under pain and trial, she was an example to many who shrink under the lesser ills of life.

________________________________

In Oaksville [Otsego Co. NY], Saturday night, March 21st, Abel Brooks in the 88th year of his age.

Mr. Brooks was born in this state [NY] and had always lived in this section of the country.  His trade was that of a miller, although he did not follow this occupation continuously through life.  He was an industrious man, and wherever known highly respected for the singleness of his motives and the honesty and uprightness of his character.  No one could impeach his integrity.  Constitutionally strong and strictly temperate in his habits, he lived to the good ripe age of 87, even more than fulfilling the Psalmist's allotment of three score years and ten.  His strength gradually failed, and he died apparently of old age.  Like a shock of wheat fully ripe he was gathered into the Father's great store house, no more to be chilled by the storms of earth or to be burdened by trials and crosses.  Those of his kindred living may justly feel proud of his memory for the cardinal virtues he possessed.  They may rest in the faith that although his deeds were not great, as the world measures greatness, yet in the sight of heaven they will receive their just recognition and reward.  "For a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth."  His funeral was attended from the home where he had lived, on the 3d inst., by Rev. E.S. Peck of Cooperstown, and the remains were interred in the old cemetery at Fly creek.

____________________________

At Schuyler's Lake, March 26th, John Austick aged 66 years.

Mr.  Austick immigrated to this country from England when a mere youth.  By frugality and industry, he rose from poverty and became one of the wealthiest and most successful businessmen in Exeter [Otsego Co. NY].  Although requiring prompt and full payment of all indebtedness, he was by no means oppressive with debtors, and liquidated all claims against himself with equal exactness.  His death leaves a vacancy in the ranks of businessmen not easily replaced.

_______________________________

In Milford [Otsego Co. NY], at the residence of Mr. Newton, Viola F. [Cooper], infant and daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. A. Cooper, aged three weeks.

"Her's was the morning hour, / And she hath passed in beauty from the day, / A bud not yet a flower, / Torn in its sweetness from the parent spray. / The death wind swept her to her soft repose, / As frost in springtime blights the early rose / Not lost, but gone before."

In Worcester, N.Y. [Otsego Co.], After a lingering illness, borne with Christian fortitude, relying entirely on the merits of her Saviour, and supported by His presence, Mary Waterman, consort of H. Waterman, aged 57 years, 11 months and 15 days.

In Otsego [Otsego Co. NY], March 20th, Mrs. Betsey Eddy, wife of David Eddy, and daughter of Col. Joseph Gardner, aged 78 years and 4 months.

At Schenevus [Otsego Co. NY], April 2d, Hon. E.E. Ferrey aged 65 years.

In Toddsville [Otsego Co. NY], March 19th, Mrs. Amy J. Doolittle wife of the late John Doolittle, in the 76th year of her age.

In Plymouth, Ind., March 19th, Lucy May [Wilbur] only child of Leroy and Ophelia Wilbur, aged 2 years and 7 months.

In Roseboom [Otsego Co. NY], March 20th, Mrs. Harmon Howland, in the 70th year of her age.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, April 7, 1877

Marriage

JACKSON -SCOTT:  At the residence of the bride's mother in this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on March 31st, by Rev. James Chambers, Mr. Willard Jackson and Miss Laura Scott, both of this place.

Deaths

ANDERSON:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], March 23, 1877, Mr. Foster Anderson, aged 86 years.

PARKER:  In this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], April 1st, 1877, Gettie Floy [Parker] daughter of H.R. Parker, aged 2 yrs and 5 months.

_____________________________

Hezekiah Gifford, Esq.  (From the Elgin (Ill.) Advocate)

The subject of this notice died at Ottawa, Franklin County, Kansas on March 2, 1877, of congestion of the lungs, aged sixty-six years, four months and twenty-eight days.

Mr. Gifford was really the first white man to locate in what now comprises the bountiful city of Elgin, having come here first in the fall of 1834, from Sherburne, N.Y. [Chenango Co.].  After looking around for a short time, Mr. Gifford returned to New York and induced his brother James T. [Gifford] to remove to the then far west with him. The two brothers left New York in January of 1835 and after a tedious tramp, they arrived at Chicago in March of the same year.  They left Chicago on horseback for Milwaukee and soon after sent their horses to Chicago and started on foot to explore the country.  After a long, weary march of three days and nights, during the greater portion of which time they were without food and obliged to wade deep creeks and rivers, they arrived at what is now Algonquin.  Here the travelers rested overnight, resuming their journey early next morning, they soon reached the ground on which Elgin now stands, and they at once resolved to locate here.   Hezekiah built the first house in this city, and in May was joined by his wife, and they settled upon their farm, remaining there a few years, when they removed to Grafton, Wisconsin.  They tarried in that state about two years, when they returned to Elgin and Mr. Gifford embarked in the commission business and kept a general store, which was about the first of the kind in the place.  He soon after removed to Aurora, where he engaged in the milling business. From that city he removed to Kansas in 1856, and returned to Elgin in 1862, and started business in the mill then owned by Dr Root.  A year later he started in the grocery business and put on the road the first delivery wagon in this city.  In 1866 he moved onto a farm in Cook County, where he remained until 1872, when he again returned to this city, and occupied the large, new and elegant house he had just completed on Villa Street, where he lived surrounded by all the comforts and luxuries of life until January, 1875, when his wife, who shared the toils of life with him, was called home to her rest.  In May, 1876, he started on a business trip to Kansas, when he was overtaken by failing health, which grew worse until death released him from earthly troubles. 

In his last moments, he was surrounded by all his children, two daughters who live in Kansas and one son, S.J., who lives in this city.

It would be almost impossible to write a sketch of the deceased without embracing in it a history of Elgin, and in fact, of northern Illinois.   Mr. Gifford, very early in life, took a decided stand in favor of religion and united with the Baptist church, and was instrumental in organizing a church near St. Charles and later the one here, of which he remained an honored member up to the time of his death.  He was a kind, loving father and husband, a warm and genial friend, a man of deep convictions and always earnest for the right as he understood the right.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, April 1877 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 5, 1877

Marriages

WRENCH - BURDITT:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], March 25, by Rev. H.N. Van Deusen, Mr. John W. Wrench to Miss Hattie Burditt, all of Afton [Chenango Co. NY]

LAMAN - FOOT:  In Coventryville [Chenango Co. NY], March 23d, by Rev. E.G. Wicks, Mr. Henry W. Laman of Waverly, N.Y. [Tioga Co.] to Miss Cornelia A. Foot of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

HOLMES - COON:  In Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY], March 24th, by Rev. J. Clarke, Mr. Daniel M. Holmes of Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Cora M. Coon, of Lincklaen.

FAIRCHILD - TUCKER:  In West Winfield, N.Y. [Herkimer Co.] April 1st, by Rev. J.C. Darling, Mr. Charles H. Fairchild of West Winfield to Miss Ida A. Tucker of Utica [Oneida Co., NY] formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

BOTSFORD:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], March 17th, Olive [Botsford] wife of the late Gideon Botsford, aged 81 years.

SLITER:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], March 19th, Mr. William Sliter, aged 76 years.

WOOLEY:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], March 24th, Mr. S.W. Wooley, aged 63 years.

The funeral of S.W. Wooley was held at the family residence, last Monday afternoon.  The services were conducted in an interesting manner by Rev. Egberts, of Bainbridge.  The attendance was very large.  Sentinel

AINSWORTH:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], March 18th, Mary H. [Ainsworth], daughter of Albert A. and Helen Ainsworth, aged 1 month and 13 days.

PEET:  In Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY], March 23d, of diptheria, Helen L. [Peet] daughter of Silas and Amelia Peet, aged 17 years 1 month and 11 days.

BARBER:  Whitman Barber, aged about thirty years, a farmer residing in the southeast part of this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], died suddenly on Monday evening last.  He had been at the residence of Mr. Phetteplace, a neighbor, in the morning, and while on his return home about eleven o'clock, he was taken with vomiting.  Reaching his home, diarrhea set in, and he died between nine and ten o'clock in the evening.  Dr. Stuart was called a short time previous to his death, but he was past help.  His death was probably caused by abscess or perforation of the bowels.  Mr. Barber was in the enjoyment of his usual excellent health previous to the attack which so suddenly resulted in his disease.

_______________________________

Hon. Darius C. Jackson, a well-known railroad contractor residing in Middletown, N.Y. [Orange Co.] fell dead of heart disease in that village on Wednesday morning of last week, while hastening to take the Erie train for New York.

He was sixty-three years of age and was born in Farmington, Wayne County, New York, August 24, 1813, of Quaker parents.  In his youth he removed with his family to Lenawee County, Michigan, where he became a prominent man.  He was twice Sheriff, was Sergeant-at-Arms in one of the first Legislatures of that State, was a Whig candidate for State Senator and a Clay elector.  he was one of the founders of Adrian, Michigan, and built large mills at Addison in that State.  He built the railroad from Cleveland to Sandusky in Ohio, now part of the Lake Shore airline.  He removed to Milwaukee, Wis., in 1853, and built the Milwaukee and Lacrosse, and a part of the Land Grant Railroad from Madison to Portage.  He was owner of the Milwaukee and Watertown Railroad.  He was United States Marshal for the State of Wisconsin for six years under the appointment of Abraham Lincoln and was removed by Andrew Johnson.  He removed to Middletown, in 1868 and built the eastern section of the New York and Oswego Midland Railroad, including the Fallsburg tunnel and the Ellenville branch, under a contract of $1,500,000, losing heavily by its failure.  He has since built the Monmouth County Agricultural Railroad in New Jersey, also the third and fourth tracks of the New York Central, from Clyde to Rochester.  He built for the government the Schuylkill Arsenal at Philadelphia and the keeper's lodge on the Antietam battlefield.  He leaves a wife and several children.  He was a man of generous qualities, irreproachable character and orderly life, and was greatly beloved and respected.

News Item

In Coon County, Ky., Friday, Col. W.G. Terrell was convicted of manslaughter in killing Harvey Myers of Covington, March 28th, 1874, and sentenced to eight years in the penitentiary.  Myers was a lawyer of note, and was born and raised in Bainbridge, this County [Chenango Co. NY].

___________________________

Old Residents of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] will recollect Darius McKibbin, who in "ye olden time" was in the employ of the late David Griffing, as a hatter.  Thirty years ago or more, he removed to the West, where he has prospered and where he has held various responsible offices.  It will be seen from the following letter received by us from him, that he is sound politically.   His home is in Geneva, Wis.

"Enclosed find two dollars.  Please continue to send me the Union.  I like to hear from the old home of my childhood, for the first thirty-five years of my life were spent in old Democratic Norwich, when we could count two hundred majority in town, and twelve hundred in Old Chenango.  Then B.B. Andrews, R. Curtiss, D.E.S. Bedford, David Griffing, Abel Chandler, Elisha B Smith, John F.  Hubbard and others of the like, were laborers in the good cause. We have fallen into bad times when bad men rule, and minority candidates are placed in office."

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, March 1877 (concluded); April 1877

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 29, 1877

Marriages

In Harpursville [Broome Co. NY], March 17, by Rev. I.P. Towner, Mr. Chas. W. Seneare, of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Mae Evans, of Union, N.Y. [Broome Co. NY].

In Whitney's Point [Broome Co. NY], March 18, by Rev. C.E. Taylor, Mr. John Dickinson of Whitney's Point to Miss Zadie C. Cook of Barker [Broome Co. NY].

Death

In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] of typhoid pneumonia, Frank [Southworth] son of John Tracy Southworth, aged 10 years, 10 months, and 27 days.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, March 29, 1877

Marriage

KUHN - OBENAUER:  At the M.E. Parsonage, Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], March 27, 1877, by Rev. N.S. Reynolds, Mr. George Kuhn of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Kate Obenauer of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY].

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, March 28, 1877

Marriage

March 14:  At the home of the bride, by W.B. Westlake, Jesse Wilbur of Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] and Miss Anna Smith of Laurens [Otsego Co. NY].

Death

March 20:  In Creek Settlement, Mrs. Elizabeth Garlick, aged 86 years.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, April 4, 1877

Deaths

NILES:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], on March 28, Nathan Niles aged 64 years, 7 months and 19 days.

PABODIE:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on the 2nd inst., Fredie J. [Pabodie] son of Henry C. and May Pabodie, aged 7 months and 22 days.

COLE:  Sir Knight DeWitt C. Cole a member of Norwich Commandery No. 46, K.T., and formerly a resident of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], died recently in Florida, whither he had gone for his health.  In pursuance of his request made some weeks since, his remains were brought to Owego [Tioga Co. NY] for interment, and were buried with Knightly honors under the direction of a detachment of Norwich Sir Knights assisted by the resident Sir Knights of Owego, members of Malta Commandery.  Sir Knight Cole was universally esteemed where he was best known, and the many positions of honor and trust he has held during his railroad service, attest his zeal and fidelity to his employers and the public as well.  He was forty years of age and leaves a wife and one child, a little son, together with a large number of personal friends to mourn his death.  His disease was consumption.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, April 7, 1877

Marriages

INGRAHAM - KEELER:  In Oxford [Chenango Co NY], March 25th, by Rev. R.M. Duff, Mr. George Ingraham to Miss Mary A. Keeler, both of Oxford.

WHEELER - SMITH:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], March 29th, by Rev. J.C. Ward, Mr. John G. Wheeler to Miss Mary A. Smith, both of Oxford.

TARBELL - HOTCHKISS:  At the Universalist Church in Smithville Flats [Chenango Co. NY], on the 1st inst., by Rev. Daniel Ballou of Utica [Oneida Co. NY], Mr. Charles t. Tarbell of Smithbille, to Miss Emma [Hotchkiss] daughter of Mr. George Hotchkiss of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

BROOKS:  At Eau Claire, Wis. March 16, suddenly, Hiram Brooks, aged 85 years

In its proper place will be found the announcement of the death of Mr. Hiram Brooks, a former resident of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] and a brother of Mr. Charles B. Brooks.  Hiram has resided at Eau Clair, Wis., for many years, was highly respected by all who knew him.  He was buried with Masonic rites.  He was a volunteer in the late war and served with credit in the Fourteenth N.Y. Volunteers, enlisting at Clayville, his home at that time.  He returned with a shattered constitution and was illy able to withstand the attack of neuralgia and rheumatism which finally reached the heart and suddenly carried him off.  Many of our people will regret to learn of his decease.

DEFOREST:  At Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], on the 3d inst. Hattie DeForest, aged 2 years.

LYON:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY], March 28, Mrs. Susan [Lyon] wife of George H. Lyon, aged 74 years.

JOHNSON:  At Hesperia, Aciana Co., Michigan, March 19, Henrietta [Johnson] wife of Wm. A. Johnson aged 48 years.  They were both former residents of Chenango County, N.Y. 

Wicked in Chenango County, NY - Murder of Delia (Maloney) Scott (1907)

 Murder of Mrs. James Scott Near Chenango Lake

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, October 25, 1907

The murder of Mrs. James Scott, which was brought to light with the discovery of her dead body in a lonely piece of woods near Chenango Lake, Wednesday afternoon, is one of the most revolting crimes in the history of this section of the country.  William Scott, the stepson of the dead woman is under arrest charged with the murder.  To E.S. Harrington, a lifelong friend of the family, he has confessed that he fired the fatal shot, but even without that admission, the chain of circumstantial evidence pointing to young Scott's guilt is unusually strong.

The History of the Case

Since his release on parole from the Elmira reformatory where he was sent a year ago on a charge of grand larceny in the second degree, William Scott had been contemplating matrimony.  He had an idea of keeping house in the upper rooms of the family residence on Waite Street.  He had talked of this more or less with his father and stepmother, but they had given him little encouragement in the enterprise.

Friday afternoon young Scott came to the family home and told his father that he was going to look at a stove which a farmer near the lake had for sale.  He asked him to come along and look at the stove.  Mr. Scott told the young man that he did not want to do this, as his eyesight was none too good, and he could see but little.  He suggested that Willie take his stepmother along with him.  William agreed to this, and they drove away.

They took the lake road and stopped once or twice to make inquiries for one William Follett.  The last place that they were noticed was the Guile farm.  Soon after they were seen passing there going toward the lake, Willie was seen driving back alone.  Perhaps an hour had elapsed.  When he arrived at the family home on Waite Street, he told his father that he had left his stepmother at Frank Stockwell's and that he need not worry, as he would have someone there to get breakfast for him.  Then he went across the river to the Brown farm where he had been employed.

Soon after he reached the Brown farm, he approached Fred Genung, a farm hand employed on the farm and pulling out a revolver attempted to sell it to him.  Genung took the revolver and examined it.  One chamber contained a loaded cartridge, the others containing empty shells.

Scott Visits the Sheriff

Saturday morning, William Scott came to the county jail and asked to see the sheriff.  After talking with Sheriff Beardsley for some little time, he casually remarked that his father and stepmother had quarreled Friday morning, and that he had taken her driving that afternoon.  He said that they had gone up the lake road after chestnuts and that he had started back home with her.  He said that after passing the Hotel Virgil on the return drive, they had met Frank Stockwell, and that his stepmother had then left the wagon and driven off with Stockwell.

Sunday morning, James Scott, the husband of the murdered woman, and the father of the self-confessed murderer, went to Stockwell's and found that his wife was not there.  Saturday night young Scott had called at his father's home and made certain incriminating remarks, which aroused suspicion that all was not as it should be.  Monday, Mr. Scott and a party of neighbors spent the day searching for the missing woman.  That night they came to the jail and told Sheriff Beardsley all of the circumstances as they then knew them.  The next morning (Tuesday) Willie Scott was located at the Brown farm and brought to the jail.

Suspicions are Aroused

Sheriff Beardsley questioned him for some time and from his replies became suspicious enough to detain the young man in the jail.  That day the sheriff went out with the searching party and from his investigations became convinced that to the best of his judgment, no statement made to him by young Scott was true.

Then entered S.E. Harrington into the case.  Mr. Harrington has been a lifelong friend of the Scott family.  He is a straightforward, honest man, and one who readily gains confidence.  Without his aid it is doubtful if the authorities would have been able to ferret the matter out.

Tuesday evening, Mr. Harrington went to the Scott home and asked to see the wagon which William had used on the drive Friday afternoon.  This he examined carefully without result.  When he asked Mr. Scott if any lap robes had been used, one was produced, and on examination Mr. Harrington found what he took to be blood stains.  The blanket is now in the hands of the authorities who will determine by analysis whether the stains are blood stains or not.

Harrington came to the jail and had a talk with Scott Tuesday night. Scott was non-committal but asked Harrington to call again in the morning.  This Harrington did.  After four or five short talks Harrington gained Scott's confidence and he agreed to take him to the place where he would find the missing woman.

In talking with Scott, Harrington told him that, assuming that Mrs. Scott was dead, the body would be surely found within a few days, and that the guilt would unquestionably be fixed on him.  Harrington intimated to the young man that if he helped him find the body a way for escape might be found.  Harrington told him, that if he had a son who was in trouble as he thought Scott was, he would be glad if someone else would help him to get away where he could make a fresh start and live an upright life.  Young Scott broke down and said that he would lead him to the body. At the same time Scott asked Harrington to fix things so that he could escape and asked him to hurry.

The members of the searching party Wednesday were Sheriff Beardsley, Deputy Sheriff Robbins, Mr. Harrington and William Scott.  They left Norwich about 11 o'clock.  The body was found at 1:30 o'clock.

Harrington arranged matters so that he was handcuffed to Scott.  The plan was understood by Scott to be this:  He was to lead Harrington to the body, whereupon the handcuff was to be unlocked and he was to escape.  To carry out this idea Harrington gave Scott food and money.  On various pretenses, Harrington contrived to unlock and lock the handcuff several times to convince the young man that he had the key which would do it.

When Harrington's house was reached, the team was stopped.  Harrington unlocked the handcuff and went into the house and got an overcoat, leaving Scott in the wagon.  Scott apparently suspected nothing and fully believed that he was to be allowed to escape as soon as the body was found.  While driving along the road, toward the lake, Harrington and Scott talked in low tones about the matter and finally Scott admitted to Harrington that he killed her.  He said that she fell to the ground and died almost instantly when she was shot.

According to agreement, Scott pressed Harrington's hand before the Borland cottage was reached and upon receiving this pre-arranged signal, Harrington had the carriage stopped, and told Sheriff Beardsley that he and Scott were going to look for the body.  Everything worked like machinery. Sheriff Beardsley agreed, and Scott started to lead Harrington through the woods.  It was part of the scheme that the sheriff and Deputy Robbins should ostensibly search in another direction, and they kept in the background.  before leaving the wagon, Harrington had slipped the real key to the handcuffs to the sheriff and had retained a false key which would not unlock them.

Scott lead Harrington directly to the body, showing not the slightest emotion.  the body of the murdered woman was found lying back downward on the leaves.  The head was drawn back, and one arm was under and one arm over the body.  The clothing was disarranged, and the position of the lower limbs was unnatural.

As soon as the body was found Harrington shouted at the top of his voice.  Then he pulled the false key out of his pocket and attempted to unlock the handcuff with it, but of course was unable to do so.  Scott then realized the ruse which had been employed to trap him and at the same time find the body of his victim and called Harrington a traitor.  He struggled to get away, but Harrington was able to hold him until the sheriff an Deputy Robbins arrived.  After he realized that he had been trapped, Scott stated that he did not shoot his stepmother, but that someone else who was in the wood did it.

Delia M. Scott, the murdered woman, was 43 years old.  She was born in Manchester, England, and was a daughter of John and Catherine Maloney.  She came to this country 19 years ago and became the wife of James Scott sometime after that.  For several years the family lived in the vicinity of Chenango Lake, not far from where Mrs. Scott was killed last Friday afternoon.

The alleged murdered is 23 years old and is the youngest son of James Scott and a former wife.  The woman killed was a stepmother.

James Scott, the father, is a man in his sixties, and has an honorable record in the Civil War.  He is a member of the G.A.R.  Mr. and Mrs. Scott had just completed payments on their little home on Waite Street and with Mr. Scott's pension were in fairly comfortable circumstances.  While they are poor people, the Scotts have always been honorable, hardworking and industrious.  Since moving to this village, Mr. Scott had found considerable work in trucking and other similar occupations.

William Scott, or Willie, as the family call him, as a lad was continually getting himself into trouble and only by the efforts of parents and friends was kept out of serious difficulty with the legal authorities many times.  Last year, he purloined a horse and cutter which he brought to this village and disposed of, and for this he was sent to the Elmira reformatory.  His release on parole was procured only recently through the efforts of his parents and friends.

What Was His Motive?

To Mr. Harrington, Scott stated that he did not know why he killed his stepmother, but notwithstanding this statement, his father, James Scott, is inclined to believe that the crime was carefully planned before it was executed.  He believes that the motive was a desire to obtain possession of the family home on Waite Street and that had Willie not been taken into custody when he was, he too would have been a victim of his son's fiendish mind.

Mr. Scott was very bitter toward his son Wednesday night.  He visited him at the jail after the discovery of Mr. Scott's body and it is said that in some respects the interview was a stormy one.  At the Sun office Mr. Scott stated that he had disowned the boy and had told him never again to call him father.

For the purpose of setting himself right with the public, Mr. Scott left at this office a statement signed by Sheriff Beardsley which said in substance that Willim had retracted his previous allegations of a quarrel between Mr. and Mr. Scott on Friday morning last, and that no such quarrel had taken place.

Scott as a prisoner

Scott does not seem to take his confinement in the jail seriously.  Tuesday morning, before starting out to show Mr. Harrington where to find the body of his stepmother, he ate a hearty breakfast and when he returned from the harrowing experience of locating the remains of the woman that had been murdered in cold blood knowing as he must have, that he was a prisoner held on a capital charge, the first thing that he demanded was food.  He laughs, talks and sings.  One favorite song which he sang just before going out with the officers Wednesday morning had as its theme, "My Dear Old Mother."  He spends much of his time pacing up and down the corridor in front of his cell.

Scott Electrocuted Monday Morning

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 15, 1909

Auburn, June 14:  William Scott, who in October 1907 murdered his stepmother, Mrs. Delia Scott, near Chenango Lake, shortly after 6 o'clock this morning paid the penalty of his crime in the death chamber at Auburn prison.  the execution was unusually successful and clean being entirely free from distressing incidents.

In view of the fact that Scott's near relatives are poor, Father Hickey of Auburn will take charge of the remains for a proper burial in St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Cemetery on the shores of the beautiful Owasco Lake.  Undertaker W.H. Meagher will have charge of the burial, which will take place at 3 o'clock this afternoon.

William Scott (unknown-1909) - Find a Grave Memorial

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, March 1877 (continued)

 Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, March 31, 1877

Marriages

BLAIR - TOLMAN:  At the residence of the bride's father in Pompey [Onondaga Co. NY] the 27 inst., by Rev. J. Petrie, Mr. Arthur L. Blair and Miss Celia A. Tolman, all of Pompey.

AVERY - TIDD:  In Morrisville [Madison Co. NY], March 21, 1877, by Rev. Mr. Smith, Mr. J. Dixon Avery and Miss Mary Tidd, all of Morrisville.

On the 16th inst., Mr. Elman Andrews was married to Miss Jennie Mudge, both of this place [Coventry, Chenango Co. NY].  The knot was very quietly tied by the Rev. Mr. Sage of Greene, and contrary to the usual custom of a bridal trip, theirs only consisted in a sleigh ride to the place they were to call their home, and as everything had been prepared beforehand, they began the business of housekeeping at once.  The young couple are highly respected in our community and that they may live long, happy and useful lives, are the best wishes of their many friends.

Deaths

WILLCOX:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], March the 22, 1877, Betsey [Willcox] wife of Paris Willcox and mother of L.J. Willcox, of this place [Norwich Chenango Co. NY], aged 47 years and 6 months.

COON:  In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], on the 24th inst., Wilhelmas Coon abed about 70 years.

MOORE:  In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], March 21, 1877, Mrs. Roby Moore aged 85 years 5 months and 7 days.

ALDRICH:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], on the 27th inst., Libbie M. [Aldrich] wife of George W Aldrich, and daughter of Deacon Elisha Crandall of this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], aged 26 years.

Mrs. George Aldrich died on Tuesday morning, the 27th inst.  Libbie was the daughter of Deacon Elisha Crandall of Norwich.  She has been a great sufferer for the past year, and yet she always manifested a calm, Christian resignation. She appreciated highly the kind attentions of her friends, many of whom will cherish in coming years the memory of her gentle loving ways and wonder at the mysterious Providence that should take her thus early in life from her husband and child.  And yet, we are assured that "He doeth all things well."

___________________________

Friday, March 23, was a sad day for many here in Otselic [Chenango Co. NY].  A mother in Israel, a lifelong devoted Christian, one who so nearly followed her Master that like Him they could find no fault in her, was carried to her last resting place.  Ruby Wightman [Moore] (afterwards called Whitman) was born in Providence, R.I., October 14, 1791.  With her parents she went to Vermont where they lived a year or two, thence to Brookfield, Madison County, N.Y., where she was married to Sebastian Moore, March 14, 1812.  Mr. Moore had already bought a piece of land in the then wilderness of the Otselic Valley, and they at once moved upon it, cleared the land and made in time a pleasant home, where they remained until death.  Mr. Moore was one of the founders of the Free Communion Baptist Church which was established here in 1841. and was a zealous and worthy member of the same until his death which occurred about sixteen years ago.  He held offices of honor and trust in the town, had a large degree of mathematical skill and mechanical ingenuity and with his companions lived to see the wilderness where the red men pitched their tents, blossom as the rose. They had no children and Mrs. Moore came to be familiarly called Aunt Ruby by everyone, and she well deserved the name.  She experienced religion at fourteen years of age.  Many times, when in the house of the Lord in speaking of the love of the Saviour, her small form would seem to tower and expand with the glory that filled her soul.  The relatives at the funeral were few but many others mourned as for a mother whose loss could not be replaced.  Little Dan Brown who had been with Aunt Ruby much of the time cried aloud while looking at the peaceful countenance for the last time. The funeral sermon was preached by Rev. J.W. Barr from the words, "to die is gain."  In the final disposition of her property and effects we think no censure should rest upon Aunt Ruby as she had reached the age of second childhood when the mind had doubtless become incapable of making an equitable disposition of the same.

News Item

The particulars of a revolting double outrage and murder in Otsego County [NY] have just come to light.  It was committed in Decatur on Thursday of last week and resulted in the death of an old woman seventy years of age.  A fiendish brute named George Marclay broke into the house occupied by Harriet Bates aged seventy, and her sister Fanny, aged sixty-three years.  After a violent struggle, Marclay succeeded in accomplishing his fiendish purpose on both of the old women.  Harriet was so badly injured that she died.  Fanny is quite ill from the effects of the treatment received at the hands of the demon.  The authorities have succeeded in apprehending Marclay and he will be held for murder.

Historic Sketch, Settlement of New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY

 Historic Sketch of the Settlement of the Town of New Berlin

By John Hyde

New Berlin Gazette, New Berlin, NY, February 3, 1877

John Ambler in the early time of New Berlin settlement, took up  his residence on the Great Brook at the place now caller "Ambler Settlement," an appellation given to the little hamlet on account that Mr. Ambler was its principal founder and was a man of considerable energy and enterprise in matters appertaining to the organization of new up-country society, the establishment of good order, the establishment of religious institutions and for the intellectual instruction of young urchins, and in all things tending to promote the general welfare of the inhabitants. He was an active member of community.  The Presbyterian church in that place, was the first one built in town, was built under his auspices and chiefly by his individual exertion.  He was a prominent member of that church.

Charles Rich was early a settler on a farm adjoining the Ambler Settlement.  He was a good farmer, a prominent man in town affairs, sometimes a justice of the peace, held other town offices, and amongst all his good qualities, he was a good neighbor, and a good member of society.  He left a good property to his heirs, earned by his honest economical labor.

Jonathan Mathewson settled on a farm near the Ambler Settlement, was an extensive businessman.  Besides farming, he entered largely into lumbering business, erected a sawmill and sawed his own boards and timber from his large pine tree lot.  He left a valuable property to his heirs.

Daniel Sage established his up-country home in a log cabin in the woods on the Great Brook, above the Ambler Settlement.  He was a farmer and peculiarly qualified to endure the difficulties, privations and hardships of a backwoodsman, and was a plain, unpretending cultivator of the land.  Like the Patricians of old, he made the sacred cause of religion and public worship on the sabbath day an indispensable duty, and the outward rite of personally attending Elder Eastwood's Methodist meetings, he being a member, a thing not to be neglected.  The Summer's rains, nor winter's snow quenched his zeal.  He was always a regular attendant at those Sabbath day meetings.  His faith in Divine Providence proved, however, on trial not to have been equal to the faith of the Father of the Hebrew nation, when commanded to sacrifice his son Isaac. The place where Elder Eastwood held his meetings was a few miles down the river through thick woods from Mr. Sage's abode, and a marked tree wood path the line of communication.  On a winter Sabbath day, Mr. Sage, in pursuance to his accustomed practice, was proceeding on the snow path, when in midway, on the beaten track before him, a huge ferocious bear and her cubs, obstructed the passage, standing on her hindmost legs, with body erect and teeth grating, and paws ready to strike.  She presented a formidable barricade for an unarmed Christian to encounter.  On either side too deep snow prevented going around.  No alternative but a combat with the grim savage beast and abide the result or return home. He turned back, and the sin of neglect to attend public worship on that Sabbath was fixed upon the unconscious brute.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, March 1877 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 29, 1877

Marriages

THURBER - BOWDISH:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], March 21st, by Rev. J.C. Ward, Mr. Charles T. Thurber of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Delphine L. Bowdish, of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY].

ELLSWORTH - CONGER:  In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], March 22d, by Rev. A.B. Jones, Mr. Oliver R. Ellsworth of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Alice W. Conger of Otselic [Chenango Co. NY].

LEWIS - COON:  In Holmesville [Chenango Co. NY], March 18th, by Rev. J.H. Chamberlain, Mr. Thomas H . Lewis of White Store [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Hattie J. Coon of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY].

WIRE - McLAUGHLIN:  In Taylor [Cortland Co. NY], March 6th, by Rev. B.D. Snyder, Mr. Vernus Wire of Taylor to Miss M. Celia McLaughlin of Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY].

Mr. and Mrs. Albert Garrison, respected people of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], celebrated the tenth anniversary of their marriage at their residence on Tuesday evening last.  The elite of the town were in attendance and the happy couple received many valuable presents, both from those present and from, many who sent their regards in substantial tokens of remembrance.

Deaths

BALDWIN:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], March 14th, Mrs. Elisha Baldwin, aged 84 years.

ROONEY:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] March 10th, Jane [Rooney] wife of Samuel Rooney, aged 46 years.

RULAND:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], March 21st, Mrs. melissa Ruland , aged 49 years.

DYE:  In DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY], March 10th, Mrs. Esther Dye, widow of the late John Dye of Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY], aged 76 years.

GRAHAM:  In South Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY], March 22d, Mr. Erastus Graham, aged 70 years.

RORAPAUGH:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY], March 18th, Mr. Jeduthan Rorapaugh, aged 74 years.

BASSETT:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY], March 18th, Mrs. Charles Bassett.

JONES:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY], march30th, Mrs. Polly Jones, aged 77 years.

STRONG:  In Elmwood, Kansas, Mrs. Catharine K. Strong, aged 46 years.

PENDLETON:  Near Nebraska City, of scarlet fever, Minnie [Pendleton] aged 3 years and 6 months and Carrie [Pendleton] aged 1 year and 6 months, children of Henry and Helen Pendleton, brother of Stanton Pendleton, and sister of A. Cary of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

____________________________

SMITH:  In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], on Wednesday morning, March 21st, after a brief but severe illness, Annette Beecher [Smith] wife of Russel M. Smith, aged 62 years.

Deceased was a daughter of Parson and Margaret Beecher, who were among the earliest settlers of that town, the latter dying some two years ago, in her 91st year, and sister of the Doctor and Harry Beecher, of this village [Norwich, Chenanog Co. NY].

Mrs. Smith was an estimable Christian woman, ever ready to assist and encourage the needy and desponding in the hour of need.  Unobtrusive and unassuming in her manners, she quietly filled her mission on earth, and many there are in the community in which she passed a long, useful and exemplary life, that will rise up and call her blessed.  She leaves a sorely bereaved husband, one son, and a large circle of relatives and friends, to mourn their irreparable loss.

__________________________

WESTCOTT:  At the residence of Nathan Field, her grandparents, in Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], March 26th, Alice F. Westcott only child of Albertus J. and Elpha A Westcott, aged 2 years 2 months and 3 days.

Another little lamb has gone / To dwell with Him who gave; / Another darling little babe / Is sheltered in the grave.

God needed one more angel child / Amid his shining band, / And so he bent with loving smile / And clasped our darling's hand.

_________________________

Our citizens were shocked on Saturday morning last by the announcement that Ruloff T. Beardslee was dead.  the particulars as told us were that Ruloff, being unwell had sometime during the night of Friday, taken an overdose of laudanum and upon going to his bedside at or about five o'clock Saturday morning, he was discovered breathing hard and unnaturally. The doctor was immediately sent for, but Beardslee lived but about ten minutes after his arrival.  A wife and son and many relatives are left to mourn their. loss.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, March 28, 1877

Deaths

STEVENS:  At Dansville, Livingston, Co. N.Y., on the 20th inst., after a lingering illness, Mrs. Sally [Stevens] widow of the late Archliana Stevens, aged 84 years and three months.

Mrs. S. was the eldest sister of Mrs. Ansel Berry of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].  She was a most estimable Christian lady, beloved by many and respected by all who knew her.  In addition to a number of brothers and sisters, she leaves two sons in the distant States of California and Nevada and two daughters at Dansville to mourn the loss of a kind and affectionate mother.  She has gone to her reward.

Earlville [Madison Co. NY]:  Another of our aged citizens has passed off the stage of human life and gone to his everlasting reward.  Foster Anderson who died at the aged of 86 years.

______________________________

LEONARD:  At his residence in the town of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], on the 23d inst., Isaac Leonard, aged 91 years.

The deceased, of hardy Welsh stock, was born April 18th, 1786, in Hoosick, Rensselaer County N.Y.  In the war o 1812 to '15 he served a short period on the Canada frontier, but when subsequently Congress made land grants and pensions for the so-called veterans, he never availed himself of the opportunity, satisfied with having done his duty and received his pay for the time, unlike our modern patriots who overwhelm Uncle Sam with petitions for bounties and other rewards to be held.  He helped himself by work.  Soon after his discharge, he emigrated to Chenango County, then almost a wilderness still visited by Indians, took up a piece of land on the present boundary line of Oxford and Coventry and commenced the toilsome life of a primitive agriculturist, living in a log cabin, clearing the woods and passing through all the hardships and privations generally endured by the early settlers, until he became to own a farm of 110 acres, which he occupied ever since, 63 years, to the hour of his death, and so attached was he to the old homestead that he could with difficulty be prevailed to be absent from it even only a few days.  In 1814 he took to himself a helpmate in the person of Naomi Seely, a spruce comely lass from Connecticut, employed in the neighborhood, now his surviving widow 82 years old and they had a numerous family of children, six of whom are still alive, two only reside in this county, Mrs. Mary Bruchhausen of Norwich and Mrs. Matilda Maria Beecher of Coventry, three sons, Alfred, Janus G. and Riley K. Leonard and one daughter Mrs. Eleanor Squires living away west.  "Uncle Isaac" as he was familiarly called, if not conspicuous by any shining qualities, bore a fair character for industry, truth and honesty, virtues, alas! becoming rarer every day.  In religion he belonged to no sect, but his natural sense and disposition led him to observe the decalogue and the gold rule, and to believe in a higher power which doeth all things well.  To ceremonial worship he was averse.  In politics he started as a Whig and when that organization vanished, voted regularly the Republican ticket, being promptly at the polls at elections, until the two last years when bodily infirmities prevented.  On Sunday March 18th, he had a shock of paralysis, the second since last Summer, and expired on Friday morning.  His remains were followed by a respectable procession and buried in the cemetery of Coventry.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, March 1877 (continued) & March 1876

 Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, March 22, 1877

Marriages

At Fernleigh Farm [Otsego Co. NY], March 14th, by Rev. E.E. Peck Albert Wolcott of Kingston, Pa., and Almeda Barnum of Cooperstown, N.Y. [Otsego Co.].

At the M.E. Parsonage, Sidney Plains, N.Y. [Delaware Co.], by Rev. J.S. Southworth, Levi Barker of Unadilla N.Y. [Otsego Co.] to Miss Julia M. Griggs of the same place.

Deaths

In Garretteville [Otsego Co. NY], March 10th, Mrs. Susan M. Bingham aged 58 years, 8 months and 10 days.

In Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], March 9th, after a short illness, Washington Gardner, aged 51 years.

In Oswego Falls, N.Y. [Oswego Co.] of paralysis, Mr. John D. Stevens in the 79th year of his age.  He was a native of Pierstown [Otsego Co. NY], his father, Josiah Stevens, with four brothers having settled in that locality 90 years ago.  For the last 40 years Mr. S. has resided in Oswego County, where he has been honored with official positions, the duties of which were faithfully performed.  Honesty and uprightness were marked traits of his character and life.

In Sacramento City, Cal., Feb. 28, 1877, William H. Brainard, formerly a resident of Pierstown [Otsego Co. NY], aged 61 years.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, March 29, 1877

Marriages

At the residence of and by the bride's uncle, Rev. J.S. Southworth, at Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY], March 21st, 1877, George R. Morenus, of Sidney Center, N.Y., and Miss Ada H. Smith of the same place.

A letter from Unadilla Forks [Otsego Co. NY], of the 20th, to the Utica Herald, says:  "The numerous descendants of Deacon Elijah Gates of Unadilla Forks [Otsego Co. NY] had a reunion of more than ordinary interest at his residence today, that being the sixtieth anniversary of his marriage.  For 60 years the deacon and his wife Betsey have kept house and farmed it on the same acres. The deacon is in his 83d year and his wife, 79.  He has five children, fifteen grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Deaths

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], March 25th, after a brief illness, Mary Ann [Sharrock] wife of Robert Sharrock, aged 56(?) years.

In East Springfield [Otsego Co. NY], March 21st, Daniel Cook, aged 75 years.

In Milford [Otsego Co. NY], March 3d, George Risedorph in the 73d year of his age.

In the town of Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY], March 17th, John A. McFee, aged 63 years.

In Canajoharie [Montgomery Co. NY], March 20th, James Milton McFee in the 36th year of is age.

Ashley Hotchkin, quite a noted character in the town of Maryland, died on the 18th, aged 73 years.  He was a man of considerable scientific information and an occasional contributor to the press.

Dr. Charles W. Tallett who was elected Member of Assembly from this county [Otsego Co. NY] in 1856, recently died in Michigan, where he was engaged as a teacher.

_________________________

Death of Dr. Tracy Beadle

After a brief illness, this gentleman died suddenly in Elmira [Chemung Co. NY] on the 22d inst. in the 69th year of his age.  He was born in this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], spent his boyhood and early manhood here and was married to a sister of Capt. Worthington.  He studied medicine, but never practiced his profession.  When he removed to Elmira in 1835, he then opened a drug store. The place was then a mere hamlet.  In 1849 he and a few other gentlemen organized the Bank of Chemung which business he conducted until recently and retained a large interest in it during his life.  From an early purchase of land lying near the city, he realized a large profit.  He was active as a public man, was elected to the Assembly in 1862 and to the Constitutional Convention in 1867.  He was a very pleasant, entertaining and agreeable gentleman, of a genial disposition and it was always a pleasure for his old friends and others to meet him on his annual visits to his native village.  He spent some time at the Hotel Fenimore last season.  Dr. Beadle leaves a wife and three sons.  His brothers, Rev. Dr. Elias R. Beadle is still living in Philadelphia.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, March 21, 1877

Marriages

Feb. 19:  At Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY], by Rev. L. Muzzy, Mr. L.N. Potter to Miss Imogene O. Hawkins, both of Edmeston.

March 7:  At the parsonage of the M.E. Church in Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] by Rev. W.G. Queal, Mr. William J. Mitchel to Miss Lucia E. Avery, both of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY].

March 15:  At Otego [Otsego Co. NY], by Rev. J.W. Mevis, Mr. Jason G. Wilsey and Miss Eva M. Mumford, both of Otego.

March 15:  At the M.E. Parsonage in Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], by Rev. J.W. Mevis, Pling R. Place and Miss Emma M. Burrell, both of Otego [Otsego Co. NY.

Deaths

March 8:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Joseph Brooks, aged 77 years.

March 10:  In Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY], John Olendorf, aged 74 years.

______________________________

March 13:  In New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY], Rebecca Sheldon.  Death has again found its way into our neighborhood.  We regret to announce the death of Mrs. Rebeca Sheldon, after suffering a long time she is taken away and leaves her family and a large circle of friends to mourn her loss.  It is hard to part with a mother, a child's best friend, but when the Master calls we must go.

It was a sad and mournful day, / For sister, dear, and I. / When there so sick our mother lay, / We knew that she must die.

And now she's gone, that mother dear, /And leaves us here alone, / But when we meet her far or near, /We'll know she is our own.

The wife of Nathan Sheldon died March 13th.  Last Fall Mrs. Sheldon complained of what she supposed to be a hard cold.  After a few weeks a physician was called.  Her lungs were found to be in a bad condition.  All that could be done for her seemed to avail nothing and for many weeks past her friends had watched by her bedside, expecting every hour that death would release her from suffering.  She leaves a husband and three children who will sadly miss her loving care and counsel.  She had been a member of the Baptist Church for many years.  The funeral services were held at the Centre; sermon by Rev. Church.

______________________________

Feb. 3:  At the residence of her son, Col. A.E. Adsit, Dearfield, Dane county, Wisconsin, Mrs. Betsy Elizabeth Adsit, aged 85 years.

Like the noble women who have gone before her, whose names are household words in almost every family, she began her early life under the trying circumstances of pioneer life among the hills and forests of the town of Butternuts, Otsego County, New York.  Here she toiled and endured the hardships of that early life, never complaining and reared a large family of children, most of whom are now living and honored wherever they may be.  In 1847, she, with her family, removed to the county of Dane, Wisconsin, on the farm where she died, again enrolling her name among the pioneers, who have made Wisconsin what it is, and today the name of Mother Adsit is familiar throughout the whole county of Dane, among the high and the low, the rich and the poor, as one of God's noble women.  Under her roof and in her presence, care and trouble were forgotten and warmth and sunshine reigned.

Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, March 23, 1876

Deaths

In Toddsville [Otsego Co. NY], March 16, 1876, at the residence of her son. S.S. Todd, Mrs. Sarah [Todd] (widow of the late Lemuel Todd, aged 91 years and 7 months.  Her children, 7 in number, were all present at her funeral, the oldest aged 71 and the youngest 51 years.

In Exeter [Otsego Co. NY], March 8th, 1870, Mrs. Maria West, aged 62 years and 1 month.

In Richfield Springs [Otsego Co. NY] on the 14th inst. of heart disease, Hiram L. Fay aged 67years.

At his residence in Springfield Center [Otsego Co. NYT] March 6,'76, Oliver N. Sherman, aged 78 years and 9 months.

_______________________________

Died at Hartwick Seminary [Otsego Co. NY], March 13th, 1876, Orange Todd aged 78 years 6 months and 25 days.

We are called upon to chronicle the death of another or our oldest and most respected citizens.  The last one of the old men who have lived for many years in the vicinity of Hartwick Seminary has heard the summons which we all must sooner or later obey.

Mr. Orange Todd was born on the 18th of August 1802.  He had, therefore, passed the age of three score years and ten, and verily we can say of him "Thou hast come to thy grave in a full age, like as a shock of corn cometh in his season."  The last 23 years of his life were spent in our midst, in the home from which his body was carried to the grave.  During all these long years he followed one after another of his neighbors, those of his own age, to their last resting place, till at last, he stood alone, like a solitary pine in the forest, conspicuous for its loneliness. Eighteen years ago, he united with the Lutheran Church of this place, and since that time he has been a faithful and devoted member and for a greater portion of the time an officer of that church.

Mr. Todd was pre-eminently a Christian, one who carried his religion into all his business affairs and relations.  Without being disagreeably forward, he was always ready to converse upon and suggest topics of religious interest and those who knew him best know that it was not for effect, but from the promptings of a pure heart.  He displayed the same readiness to speak for his Master, whether in his family, among his neighbors, or with his pastor.  We know of no better tribute than the testimony of one of his sons;  "We think he has been a good father to us."  To this we would only add, that from a quite intimate acquaintance of about twelve years, we are prepared to bear our testimony that his walk has been consistent and his conversation godly.

As the end approached, we received his last humble confessions and when prayer had been offered, he seemed at peace.  "I am now ready to be offered," said he, and so on the 13th of March, 1876, his emancipated spirit returned to God who gave it.  These words from 2d Timothy 4-6 were used on the Thursday following as the text for a funeral discourse preached by Rev. James Pitcher.  A large congregation of friends and neighbors assembled to pay their last tribute of respect to the dear departed.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, March 1877 (continued)

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 22, 1877

Marriages

At the Baptist Parsonage in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], March 14, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Elman L. Andrews of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Jennie W. Mudge of Coventry, formerly of this village.

In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], at the house of the bride's parents, March 15, by Rev. Jas. D. Webster, Mr. Jas. H. White of German [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Alice C. Kenyon of the former place.

In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], March 8, by Rev. L. Pitts, Mr. G.S. Graves of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Hattie T. Price of Binghamton.

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY] March 10, of dropsy, Jane [Rooney] wife of Samuel Rooney, aged 46 years.

Mrs. Furgerson of New York, sister of the late Mrs. Samuel Rooney of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] received a letter on the evening of the 10th inst., that her sister was not expected to live but a few days.  The next day, the 11th, she packed her satchel and was in readiness to take the 7 o'clock train.  At twenty minutes before six o'clock she received a dispatch that her sister (Mrs. Rooney) was dead, and such was its effect upon her that she lived but twenty minutes.

At Farmer's Valley, McKean Co., Pa. suddenly, March 11, Mr. J.B. Babcock, formerly of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], aged 51 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], March 12, Mrs. Achsa Thompson, mother of B.L. Thompson, aged 73 years.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], March 13, Carrie [Bullis], wife of Albert Bullis, aged 26 years and 5 months.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, March 24, 1877

Marriages

KOON - HILL:  In West Eaton [Madison Co. NY], on the 16th inst. by the Rev. F.F. Stark, Mr. Nicholas Koon of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] and Miss Frank Hill of West Eaton.

__________________________

Twentieth Anniversary

Mr. Editor:  As most of the news from our place has been of broken bones and shattered limbs, and as we have pleasant things, just as our lives are made of clouds and sunshine, I write you of a very enjoyable affair which took place at L.A. Marble's March 17th in the shape of a China wedding.  About fifty guests were present and all passed off as merry as a "Marriage Bell."  A number of friends clubbed together and presented them with a set of dishes, six large spoons and a lamp.  Other presents were given, the most noticeable of which was a pair of beautiful vases.  A very nice lunch was served of pie, pressed chicken, cakes and ice cream.  good music and lively converse made the time pass pleasantly and it may well be termed one of the green spots in memory.

At the presentation of presents three essays were read, one of which I send for publication.  In one an idea was advanced that Mr. and Mrs. M's affection for each other is stronger now than at the beginning of their married life.  It was also hoped that they might always eat in the harmonious state of "Jack Sprat and wife" and live to enjoy a silvery old age.

Mr. and Mrs. Marble:  We congratulate you upon the happy termination of the twentieth anniversary of your marriage.  That the twenty years in the main have passed happily with you we have ample evidence in your still youthful appearance and contented and happy smiles.  We also see that you have been blessed with three intelligent children, a blessing that is becoming rare in these modern times.  How have the twenty years passed with us?  Have we spent the time profitably to ourselves and others?  Have we done one single act that we can feel proud of?  As our anniversaries come around do we pause in the hurry of life to take a retrospective view of the years that have passed and take an inventory of our good and bad deeds?  Strike the balance and see how our account stands.  I am afraid that it would come out like most other accounts, the balance on the wrong side of the ledger.  Let us see to it that for the coming year we may have the balance on the right side.  Now how stands your account?  That you have your balance on the right side we can but believe, as your example and influence have done great good in this community.  That you have open hands and liberal hearts is also evident.  If in the future you should have reverses, the clouds gather thick around you and the world seems cold and dreary, stand firm as a rock, let not your faith be shaken in the right. The clouds will soon pass over and you will be stronger and better for the contest.  It is labor that gives strength.  It is disappointment that tries our faith.  Our happiness or unhappiness in a great measure is in our own hands.  Let us look on the bright side of life, think everything for the best, be cheerful and contented, then we shall be happy.  We feel like making a covenant with you tonight to help each other in sickness and health in prosperity and adversity, to lift up, not to pull down, to spread the mantle of charity over our errors, and I think we shall be the happier for it.  We shall all have our marriage anniversary, but we know not when the "bridegroom" will come.  Let it be sooner or later, may we be prepared for that event, and at last may we all meet on the other shore where there is no sorrow or pain, but perfect happiness.  Then we will take seats at the "bridal feast" to part no more.

A Guest.

Death

CARTER:  In this city [New Orleans, LA], at St. Charles Hotel, on Tuesday, 6th inst. Lavinia C. Carter aged 20 years, daughter of John A. and A.C. Carter, of Louisville, Ky. [The Times-Picayune, New Orleans, LA, Mar. 7, 1877]  

The Louisville Courier-Journal [Kentucky] contains the following touching tribute to Miss Lavina Carter, a name dear to many hearts in this community [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY].

A name too familiar to the people of Louisville to require an introduction.  She has long been known as the brightest star in our public school, distinguished always for an active, strong, reliable intellect, and a character "chaste as ice, pure as snow."  Her life was a master poem, composed of a succession of the most delightful thought, each one surpassing in beauty the one preceding, until we strive to find some flaw; but our study only reveals to us solid truths and Christian virtue clothed in the most beautiful and expressive language.  I have watched her grow from childhood almost to womanhood; always the same guileless child, doing her duty ever and illustrating the sublimest truth, and sometime, in my heart, I have said:  "Surely such loveliness is Heavenbound."  Even as I write memories sweet, but as sad as sweet, flood my eyes with regretful tears, a few short months since June and she graduated, the valedictorian of a large and talented class.  Crowned with every honor and awarded every medal a learned faculty could bestow, I see her now, standing in a sweet simplicity, peculiarly her own, to receive her certificates of superior excellence in every department.  These were to her worthless toys, for often have I heard her say she studied from love of it and a sense of duty to do her best in everything.  As a child I have known her to receive the first honors of her class and never tell even her home loved ones.  Love sprung up in her pathway, ever and especially among her classmates in connection with her they knew none of those usual petty jealousies about "class honors;" each and every one gave a hearty and loving acquiescence to her having the highest and best.  Their presence and beautiful floral offerings on the sad occasion of her funeral told a fond, sweet story of love and devotion.  Surely nothing could speak more directly to our hearts of Lavina than the pure white rosebuds worn by her pall bearers.  The first gem to drop from Love's shining circle, so young, so bright, so beautiful to die.  The fairest flower in "the land of fair flowers" was wafted to heaven on the wings of love.

"Our noisy years are but as moments in / The being of eternal silence"

[daughter of John Allen Carter & Albana Caroline Carson; b. Mar. 1, 1857, d. Mar. 6, 1877]

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, March 1877 (continued)

 Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, March 21, 1877

Marriage

On Tuesday of last week, a part of invited guests assembled at the house of Joseph Kenyon to witness the marriage of Miss May Kenyon of South Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], to Mr. Floyd Stillman of Linklaen [Chenango Co. NY].  The house was literally crowded, and each guest seemed to vie with the other in making himself agreeable so that a fresh storm of jokes was kept up until the arrival of the Rev. H.C. Leach.  The knot was tied neatly and tightly.  After this followed the congratulations of the guests.  Each one with a smile kissed the bride and shook hands with the groom.  Then followed another shower of jests and jokes.  But this was at last brought to an end by the announcement that supper was ready.  And as I am told, such a supper.  Our pen refuses to perform its accustomed office as we attempt to describe it, suffice it to say that each guest did ample justice to the viands placed before them.  At a late hour the party separated.  May they long live and happy be is the wish of all.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, March 24, 1877

Marriage

POTTER - HAWKINS:  February 19th, at Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY], by Rev. L. Muzzy, Mr. I.N. Potter to Miss Imozene O. Hawkins, both of Edmeston.

Deaths

DWIGHT:  In German [Chenango Co. NY], March 1st, 1877, Amanda M. Dwight, daughter of Henry and Margaret Dwight, aged 26 years.

HAWK:  In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], on the 20th inst., Polly [Hawk] widow of Israel Hawks, aged 83 years.

ADSIT:  February 3, at the residence of her son, Col. A.E. Adsit, Dearfield, Dane County, Wisconsin, Mrs. Betsy Elizabeth Adsit, aged 86 years.

GUILE:  On Thursday, March 8th, James H. Guile, of Lordsville, N.Y. [Delaware Co] was crushed by falling between the cars on a freight train on the Erie Railroad, near Port Jarvis [Orange Co. NY].  It is supposed that he fell while passing from the caboose to engine.  The wheels passed over his body, cutting him entirely in two, and severing one hand and foot.  His watch was crushed and indicated 7:25, this being the time of his death.  The deceased was a brother of W. Guile of King Settlement [Chenanog Co. NY], was thirty years of age and leaves a wife and one child.

_______________________________

The Rev. Samuel W. Bush, Chaplain of the Inebriate Asylum in Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], died at the Asylum, about six o'clock, Wednesday evening, at the age of seventy years.  He was for four years pastor of the Congregational Church in this village, from 1851 to 1855.  The following brief sketch of his life and labors we find in the Binghamton Times of Thursday:

"Rev. Mr. Bush passed the earliest years of his life in Berkshire County, Massachusetts.  At eight years of age he came to Albany where he devoted himself to his education.  About the time of attaining his majority he returned to Berkshire.  Here he studied law and edited a newspaper.  A brief sojourn at Albany succeeded.  He next entered the Auburn Theological Seminary where the preparations for his work were made.  His first field of labor was at Binghamton.

"He came to this city [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] in 1839 as pastor of the Congregational Church, at that time situated on Chenango Street.  In 1840 he married Betsey Weed, a member of one of the prominent families of the village and who survives him.  He held the pastorate of the Church for about five years.  He left Binghamton to take charge of a Church at Skaneateles.  After remaining at that place for three or four years he removed to Norwich in which village he was a pastor for a term of years, leaving Norwich for Cooperstown.  In 1861 he returned to this city.  In 1866 he took the office of Chaplain of the Asylum, a place which he has filled for most of the years since and in the duties of which he was engaged when called to his rest.

"He was a man of scholarly attainments and irreproachable character, devoted to his calling, and attaching to him those under his spiritual charge."

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, March 21, 1877

Marriage

WALKER - GORHAM:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] on 18th, by Rev. Walter Scott, Mr. Frank H. Walker of Albany to Miss Hattie A. Gorham of Masonville [Delaware Co. NY].

Deaths

Guilford, Chenango Co. NY:  The funeral of Abijah Shelton was largely attended on the 11th inst. at his father's residence, Rev W. Wilson officiating.  The deceased was a young man of sterling worth and genial manners, beloved by all who knew him.  His health has been declining for the past few years and at the age of 35 he yielded to disease and has left a large circle of friends and relatives to sorrow that he should so soon finish his course.

Guilford, Chenango Co. NY:  Died on the 10th inst., wife of the late Lemuel Jewell and mother of W.B. Jewell of this place, and Mrs. Sorinberger of Chittenango, also of Henry and Truman Jewell of California.  The deceased came to this place from Connecticut in 1822, and was the oldest resident of this village, and of course closely identified with its early history.  She was a devoted wife and mother, a kind neighbor, and a faithful Christian, doing her duty quietly and unobtrusively in the state of life to which she was called.  She was 85 years old, but always had borne her years lightly, retaining to the last her powers of mind and body in a wonderful degree.  Rev. Mr. Scoville, of Norwich officiated at the funeral and made some most fitting remarks in his usual impressive manner. 

News Item

An Elopement in High Life

A dismal wail coming from the Rogers House rent the frigid air Saturday evening.  Our reporter hastened to the spot and found a strong man - strong enough to life one hundred and fifty pounds - in tears.  A sympathizing guardian showed him into the sitting room from whence flowed the excessive moisture, and what a scene met his gaze my fellow countrymen, or words to that effect.

Mr. Bert Lamb was pleading with a fond wife and two children to return to his chateau among the snow-clad hills of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], but the fond wife was as immovable as a brazen image and signified her intention of fleeing to the sunny clime of Cortland with Blind Tom Burt, he of orchestral fame, who has drawn the long bow at several receptions in our village the past winter and aroused the jealousies of the Red Street beaux.  Blind Tom sat at the right hand of the beautiful creature, inhaling her fragrant breath and rocking one of the children, as unconcerned as the boy who put the wasp in the schoolmaster's pocket.  After madame imparted the information that the children were Blind Tom's and that it was her duty to go with him, kind hands dried the tears of the injured husband, and the buss was announced.  The guests of the house, who had divided their sympathies now of one accord assisted the fleeing couple and they with bag and baggage were loaded into the buss and got the "send off" at once.  While waiting at the depot, Tom, who it is supposed was restored to sight for an instant, tried to escape, but was brought back by the woman and the two drew forth their pipes and smoked the pipe of peace, and answered the pertinent questions of "the boys" who has smelled the heart rendering affair from afar.  The train drew up and the soulless wretches departed without one word of comfort for the sorrowing husband who sang "What's this dull town to me! Life's not here!" and immediately departed for McDonough with another woman.  Divorce is to follow.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, March 1877 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, March 22, 1877

Marriage

WEBSTER - BRIGGS:  At the bride's residence in Lower Beaver Meadow [Chenango Co. NY], March 18th by Rev. S.H. Adriance, Mr. L.P. Webster of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Mrs. A.C. Briggs, of the former place.

Deaths

FREEMAN:  At the residence of Mrs. S. Follett in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 16th, of consumption, Miss Ernestine R. Freeman, daughter of the late Charles P. Freeman, of New York and adopted daughter of the late Walter M. Conkey, aged 26 years and 9 months.  

PARKER:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], March 20th, Sarah Parker, aged 80 years and 8 months.

CLARK:  In Brisbin [Chenango Co. NY], March 14th, Mr. William Clark aged 60 years, brother of E.S. Clarke of Preston [Chenango Co. NY] where he formerly resided.

BALDWIN:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], March 15, Mrs. Patty/Polly Baldwinaged 84 years and 7 months.

KENYON:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], March 14th, Mr. Solomon Kenyon aged 63 years.

TAYLOR:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], March 13th, Mrs. Huldah Taylor aged 82 years.  

FOOT:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], March 17th, Bede [Foot] wife of the late Leonard Foot, aged 88 years.

BUSH:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], March 13th, Mr. Abial Bush, aged 77 years.

Mr. Abial Bush, another of our aged and respected townsmen died at his home east of our village [Guilford, Chenango Co. NY], on the 13 inst., aged some seventy-seven years.  Ever since we can remember, Mr. Bush has resided in our vicinity, and until within a few years taken an active part in public matters. He was of that class of substantial, reliable citizens, who are unfortunately passing away.

TALLETT:  In Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], March 14th, L. Jay [Tallett] only child of Merton M. and Minerva m. Tallett, aged 16 months and 17 days.

HARRINGTON:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] March 5th, Hermie D. [Harrington] child of W. Harrington, aged 2 months and 5 days.

PALMER:  On Onarga, Ill. March 11th, Laura L. [Palmer] wife of Hon A.S. Palmer, aged 51 years, formerly of Columbus in this county [Chenango Co. NY].

SMITH:  The remains of Mrs. Smith, widow of the late John P. Smith, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], were brought to this place on Thursday and interred on the family lot in the Norwich Cemetery.  She died in Rome [Oneida Co. NY], where she had resided for years past, having been stricken with paralysis two weeks previous to her decease.  Many will remember her while a resident of this village as an estimable lady, whose memory will long be cherished by those who knew her.

HAIGHT:  In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], suddenly, March 14th, Mr. William Haight of South Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], aged 52 years.

William Haight, a well-known resident of South Oxford, suddenly expired while at work in Coventry, on Wednesday forenoon inst.  Deceased was engaged by Mr. Beardsley of this village in drawing stone for a new building in Coventry, he having a box sleigh, and while passing the Parker neighborhood met Mr. Peter Parker, with whom he had some conversation.  He was on foot, following the team, and soon after Mr. Parker saw him stumble into the sleigh, make an effort and then remain quiet.  The team walked leisurely along a short distance until they came to a little rise in the road where they stopped and Mr. Parker who had been watching all the time, hastened to the spot and found Mr. Haight in the sleigh dead.  The body was removed to Mr. Joel Parker's house and properly cared for until the arrival of friends and here it was that the driver of another team, who had been ahead of Mr. H., but out of sight, was met coming back to see if he had not met with some accident.  Dr. Throop was called and viewed the body, pronounced the cause of death disease of the heart of which Mr. Haight had been troubled lately.  Deceased leaves a wife and four children, two of whom, a son, living in this village, and daughter are married.  For two or three years he had kept the boarding hall on the Sidney camp meeting ground, where he made a great many friends and acquaintances.  His funeral was largely attended from the Methodist Church, in this village, on Saturday.  Times

_____________________________

JEWELL:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], March 10th, Mrs. Lemuel Jewell, aged 85 years.

In the death of Mrs. Lemuel Jewell on the 10th inst. at the advanced age of eighty-five years, our community lost one of its oldest and most respected citizens.  Coming to this place from the East at an early period, she entered her new field with cheerful courage, soon becoming identified with many benevolent and praiseworthy objects and lived to behold, through the trials and vicissitudes of over half a century, the origin and prosperity of our village, as well as the growth of the surrounding country.  For fifty years she lived and toiled upon the spot where she died and with true motherly solicitude, witnessed a family grow up and go forth into distant parts of the country.  With Christian resignation she meantime endured family afflictions and death, and under the filial care and protection of a faithful son, calmly awaited the sure summons that at last found her ready.  She retained her faculties until the last and was gladdened during the past few months with visits from sons in California, whom she had not seen for many years.  All who knew her will miss Mrs. Jewell, for her many kindnesses in the long years that are past and cherish her remembrance with feelings of the deepest respect.  Her husband died something over two years ago, aged about ninety-four.

News Item

Many of our older citizens will remember "Black Frank," Frank Gilmore, a colored man, who worked and lived in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] some years ago.  Well, Frank recently received $1,100 back pension, by the loss of a son in the army, and is to receive $8 a month hereafter.  Many years ago, Frank was a slave and was the property of Col. Richard Juliand of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], for whom he worked a number of years.  Mr. Juliand subsequently gave him his freedom and finally Frank came to Greene [Chenango Co. NY] and worked for George and Lewis Juliand, alternately, for the space of twenty years.  Frank now resides in Binghamton and his interests are looked after by Dr. Hodge, who, we understand, has bought Frank a comfortable little home with a portion of his pension money.  Frank was an honest and trusty servant, and his friends here rejoice to know of his prosperity in the declining years of his life, even though it comes through a sad source.  American