Vital Records, Otsego & Broome Counties

 Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, November 27, 1847

Marriages

In Springfield [Otsego Co. NY], Sept. 28th, by the Rev. H.A. Smith, Rev. G.W. Gates, Pastor of the Baptist Church, Westville [Franklin Co. NY], to Miss Amanda H. Reed of Springfield.

In Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY] on the 14th inst. by the same, B.A. Sheldon, M.D. of Albany [Albany Co. NY], to Miss Elizabeth Ann Pitts of the former place.  

At the same time, Mr. F.B. Shipman to Miss Ann Pitts both of Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY].

In Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY], on the 21st inst. by the same, Mr. John Holliday to Miss Elizabeth M. Page, both of Middlefield.

In Colliersville [Otsego Co. NY], on the 14th inst. by the Rev. C. Champaugh, Mr. Stiles Silliman to Miss Martha [Burnside] daughter of Thomas Burnside, esq. all of Colliersville.

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] on the 16th inst. by the Rev. N.D. Wilkins, Mr. George R. Whitney of Meredith [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss  Mary M. Wing daughter of Rev. A. Wing, of Oneonta.

Deaths

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], on the 16th inst. of consumption, Mary A. []Hutchins] eldest daughter of the late Rev. Stephen Hutchins, aged 17 years.

In Maryland [Otsego Co. NY], on the 6th inst. Mrs. Ruth Carpenter aged 60 years.

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, March 15, 1848

Marriage

In Seward, Schoharie Co., NY on Wednesday last by Rev. Mr. Bogardus, Mr. Charles Eldredge to Miss Elizabeth [Pinder] eldest daughter of Mr. John Pinder.

Deaths

The Argus of yesterday announces the death at his residence in Lyons, Wayne County [NY] at 10 o'clock, Monday morning, of the Hon. Ambrose Spencer at the advanced age of 83.

In this city [New York City] on Friday morning, 10th inst., after a short but severe illness, Charles Fitch [Hall], only son of John O. and Ann Eliza Hall, aged 1 year, 5 months and 11 days.

His remains will be deposited in the vault of the Reformed Presbyterian church, corner of Prince and Marion Streets, this day (Saturday) at 2 o'clock, there to remain until the opening of navigation, when they will be taken to Cherry Valley, Otsego County, New York, for burial.  New York Daily Globe.

"As fades the lovely, blooming flower, / Sweet, smiling solace of an hour / So soon our transient blessings fly, / And loved ones only breathe to die!"

____________________________

Another of our old and most respected Citizens has done down to the grave.  William McLean, Esquire, after a long and lingering illness which he bore with fortitude and Christian resignation, died last Sunday morning in this village [Cherry Valley, Otsego Co. NY] in the seventy-fourth year of his age.  He was formerly a Citizen of Oneida County [NY] and printed and edited the first newspaper which was published in that county. The first number of this paper made its appearance, we believe, about the year 1795.  It was called The Whitestown Gazette and Cate's Patrol.  How wonderful, that the man who printed the first newspaper published in the great, rich, and populous County of Oneida, was buried yesterday!  In 1818 he came to this village and commenced printing The Cherry Valley Gazette which he continued until the year 1831, when the management of it was transferred to his son, Charles McLean, esq., the present Clerk of this county.  when Gen. Harrison was elected president in 1840, he was appointed postmaster of this village which office he held for four years.  About eighteen years ago, he was elected Town Clerk of Cherry valley and was, not withstanding all the changes and fierce collisions of parties, unanimously re-elected by his neighbors and townsmen until the last Town meeting, when the state of his health did not permit him to be a candidate.  He was literally a working man, and was, when he commenced his career in life, a Federalist of the Washington School.  He never changed his principles.  It is remarkable that though during the most bitter political controversies he conducted for many years a party newspaper, he has not left behind him a single personal enemy.

"A Wit's a feather, and a Chief's a rod / An honest man's the noblest work of God."

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, April 13, 1853

Death

John F. Perkins, Coroner, held an inquest on the 2d inst. on the body of Daniel Doliver who was found dead in the road about half a mile from West Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] on the Mill Creek Road.  The deceased resided in the town of Otego [Otsego Co. NY].  The jury returned a verdict that he came to his death by the too free use of ardent spirits. 

Broome Republican, Binghamton, NY, September 20, 1832

Marriages

In this village [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] on Sunday evening last, by the Rev. Mr. Lockwood, Mr. Jesse Orcutt to Miss Catharine Sawtell, all of this village.

In this town [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY], on Thursday evening last by John Munsell, esq., Mr. Erasmus D. Hall to Miss Betsey Bevior, all of this town.

In this town, [Binghamton, Broome Co. NY] on Sunday last, by John Munsell, Esq. Mr. Sampson Merchant to Miss Emily Temple daughter of Captain James Temple, all of this town.

In St. Luke's Church in the village of Harpersville [Broome Co. NY] on Monday morning last by the Rev. Mr. Adams of this village, the Rev. David Huntington Rector of St. Luke's Church, to Miss Lydia Allen, both of Harpersville.

Death

In the town of Vestal [Broome Co. NY] on Tuesday last, John Seymour son of Lewis Seymour, Esq. aged 11 years.  This is the third child of Mr. Seymour's whose death we have recorded in the space of three weeks.

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY, 1878 & 1809

 Oneonta Herald & Democrat, Oneonta, NY, June 28, 1878

Marriages

In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], at the M.E. parsonage, June 20th, by Rev. J.W. Mevis, James O. Richardson and Miss Mary Richardson, both of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY].

In Utica [Oneida Co. NY], at Cavalry Church June 19th, by the Rev. Dr. Goodrich, Major T.D. Everts formerly of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] and conductor on the A.&S.R.R. and Miss Ella L. Williams, all of that city.

In Delhi [Delaware Co. NY], June 25th, by Rev. Mr. Post, Rev. Orson C. Sargent of Jewett City, Ct, and Miss Phidelia Sears.

Deaths

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY], June 25, Wm. Fleming, aged 52 years.

In Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY] May 25, Ada [Davis] only daughter of Adelbert and Mary Davis, aged 11 months.

In Hamden [Delaware Co. NY], June 23, Mrs. Elizabeth A. Sanford in the 45th year of her age.

In Hamden [Delaware Co. NY], June 21st, James Taylor aged about 86 years.

In Abington, Ill, May 31, J Wesley Melfinn aged 40 years.

In Stamford [Delaware Co. NY], Marshall Crowley aged 78 years.

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY], June 22, Freddie [Brown] infant son of Harvey Brown, aged 1 year.

In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] June 21 , John Fisk in his 90th year.

Hartwick, Otsego Co. NY:  Alonzo Axtel's funeral services took place at his late residence in the Field neighborhood last Sabbath afternoon.  A large concourse of people were present to sympathize with the bereaved family.  Mr. Axtel had not lived in town but a few months but during the time had made many friends, and those who knew him had learned to love him.  He leaves a wife and three small children to battle with the ills of life.

_______________________

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], June 25th, Timothy Sabin, aged 75 years.

Another of the pioneers of Oneonta has died.  During the night of June 24th, the spirit of Timothy Savin took its flight, just how and at what hour, God only knowns.  The evening before he was in usual health, and Tuesday morning dead.  From the appearance of his features and body when discovered, it was evident that he died without a struggle.  His life went out, yielding to the circumstance of old age and a finished course.

Timothy Sabin was born at Pauling, Dutchess Co. [NY] in 1803 and was consequently 76 years of age.  He came to Oneonta in 1811.  In 1823 he married Willmet Van Dyke of Mayfield in this State [Fulton Co. NY]. She died May 17th, 1827 aged 20 years.  February 14th, 1828 he married Harriet Mann, daughter of Daniel Mann of Franklin [Delaware Co. NY].  She died June 15th, 1865.  During his early residence here and for a few years in Davenport [Delaware Co. NY], Mr. Sabin pursued the avocations of farmer, clerk, hotel keeper and merchant.  In 1849 he retired from the mercantile business and from that date until about 1875, conducted an extensive commission business, his son, Egbert T., being a partner during considerable of the time.  Mr. Sabin built the store now owned by George Reynolds and one or two houses.  He was more instrumental than any other Oneonta person, excepting only the late E.R. Ford, in promoting the Albany and Susquehanna Railroad project.  Although never holding any official connection, his energy, good management and encouragement had much to do with its building.  Mr. Sabin was converted under the ministrations of Rev. Augustus Little John, became a member of the Presbyterian church in 1833 and was made an Elder two years later, which position he held until some eighteen months ago, at that time of choice, becoming merely honorary.  In church Mr. Sabin has been a zealous worker and as a Christian gentleman, prayerful and constant in religious duties.

In the esteem of his neighbors and fellow townsmen, Timothy Sabin might properly have been regarded our first citizen.  During the years of his strength, he was with the first in everything that pertained to the welfare and prosperity of his town.  Without a particle of selfishness, he devoted time, work and money to promote public enterprises and Oneonta is the better and more prosperous because of his living in it.  His exalted Christian character, his charity, his kindness, his devotion to all things good, made him a man to be missed by those who cherish Christianity a high condition of public morality and good order.  His name will ever be associated with the noblest of our dead and it is strange indeed if there are not those yet living who are endeavoring to emulate his virtues and are pressing on to a better life because of his example.

The Impartial Observer, Cooperstown, NY, February 18, 1809

Marriage

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], on Wednesday Evening last, by the Rev. Mr. Neil, Mr. Joseph Swetland to Miss Sybil Beadle.

The Impartial Observer, Cooperstown, NY, April 1, 1809

Marriage

At Fly Creek [Otsego Co. NY], on the 26th ult by the Rev. Daniel Nash, Mr. William Jarvis Edson to Miss Polly Fairchild both of Otsego [Otsego Co. NY].

May Hyman now propitious prove, / Bestowing naught but you and love! / Long may they live and love most true, / And taste the joys ordained for few!

But should their wayward fate ordain, / that they should suffer grief and pain; / True Love will brighten every woe, / And give its flames still brighter glow

Thus they will solace find in each, / More than e'or Wealth or Power could reach.

Deaths

On the 18th ult at Halfmoon [Saratoga Co. NY], Mr. Isaac S. Irish in the 24th year of his age, late of the firm of Smith and Irish of the town of Worcester [Otsego Co. NY] in this county.

In Otsego [Otsego Co. NY] on the 21stult.  Mrs. Julia Tanner wife of Mr. Ira Tanner, leaving a family of 11 children to deplore her loss.

The Impartial Observer, Cooperstown, NY, April 15, 1809

Marriages

At Cherry Valley [Otsego Co. NY] on the 9th instant, Mr. Erastus Johnson to Miss Jerusha Holt eldest daughter of General Elijah Holt.

At New Bedford (Mass.) Master G. Lloyd, aged 16! to Mrs. Evans aged 60!!!

The Impartial Observer, Cooperstown, NY, April 22, 1809

Marriage

At Warren on the 28th ult. by the Rev. Daniel Nash, Mr. Noah H. Coleman of Otsego [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Polly Tunnicliff, daughter of John Tunnicliff, Esq. of the former place.

Deaths

In Otsego [Otsego Co. NY] on the 28th ult. Mrs. Fitch wife of Mr. Stephen Fitch.

On the 15th inst. Miss Catharine Fitch daughter of Mr. Stephen Fitch.

On the 13th inst. Mrs. Esther Stephens wife of Mr. William Stephens.

Vital Records, Delaware County, NY, Oct. to Dec. 1824

 Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, October 13, 1824

Death

On the 24th September last, Mr. Ebenezer Silliman of Stamford [Delaware Co. NY] in the 57th year of his age.  His death was occasioned by a fall from the side of the house of Mr. John Griffin, while he was standing on a ladder at the height of about twenty-three feet from the ground.  He spoke but once or twice and died almost instantaneously.  He was employed at the time in painting, which has been long his favorite occupation, pursuing it from choice rather than from necessity.  He had lived fourteen years in Stamford, whither he emigrated from Fairfield, Ct., greatly respected by all his acquaintance and sustaining emphatically the character of an honest man.  His neighbors and numerous relatives mourn his loss.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, October 20, 1824

Marriage

In this town [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY], on the 13th inst. by Jabez Hitchcolk, Esq. Mr. Thomas J. Tiffany to Miss Louisa Church.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, November 3, 1824

Elopement

Whereas my wife Betsey [Whitlock] has eloped from my bed and board without any just cause or provocation.  I hereby forbid all persons harboring or trusting her on my account, as I am determined to pay no debts of her contracting after this date.  Platt Whitlock.  Stamford, October 21, 1824.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, November 17, 1824

Marriage

In Hancock [Delaware Co. NY], on the 3d inst. by Edward Doyle, Esq. Mr. George C. Twaddell to Miss Perazinda Lanfield, daughter of M. Lanfield, Esq. all of Hancock.

Death

In Bovina, on Thursday the 28th ultimo, Mr. Robert Summers, aged 81 years.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, November 24, 1824

Death

At Franklin [Delaware Co. NY], on the 19th inst. with the diabetes after a lingering illness of ten months.  Eliza Miriam [Douglass] youngest daughter of Amos Douglass, Esq. aged 6 years, 3 months and 10 days.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, December 1, 1824

Marriages

At Harpersfield [Delaware Co. NY] on Wednesday the 24th ultimo by the Rev. Stephen Fenn, Mr. Samuel Mulford to Miss Alma Gaylord.

On the 1st ult. at Richmond, U.S. the Rev. John Byrne, Rector of that place, aged eighty-four years to Miss Ann [Eyneuf] daughter of Mr. Eyneuf, late schoolmaster of Richmond, in the 12th year of her age!!!

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, December 22, 1924

Marriages

At Kortright in this county [Delaware Co. NY], on Monday the 13th inst. by Elder Mayble, Mr. Edward Graves, aged eighty-five to Miss Aurenah Whitcomb aged thirteen years!!!

In the same town, by the same, Mr. Reuben McCallum to Miss Polly Smith.

In the same town, on Sunday the 12th inst. by Zachius Smith, Esq., Mr. Jehiel Gregory to Miss Cynthia Osborn.

In Stamford [Delaware Co. NY], on Tuesday the 14th inst. by the Rev. Robert Forest, Mr. Isaac Squires to Miss Susan Peters.

In the same town, by the same, on Wednesday the 15th inst. Mr. Sutton Peters to Miss Susan Squires.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, December 29, 1824

Marriage

In this town [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] on Wednesday the 22d inst. by the Rev. E.K. Maxwell, Mr. Joshua Simmons to Miss Polly Millard daughter of Mr. Amasa Millard, all of Delhi.

Deaths

At his residence in Walton [Delaware Co. NY] on the 15th Dec. instant, Mr. Benajah McCall in the 82d year of his age.  The deceased was one of the first settlers of this County.  He passed through a long and arduous life, with the deserved reputation of strict integrity and unblemished morals and displaying a spirit and habit of industry beyond the ordinary capabilities of advanced life, he continued to the last as useful member of the society his enterprise aided in founding.

At Kingsbury, Washington County [NY] on the 12th inst. Col. Adiel Sherwood in the 75th year of his age, a soldier of the Revolution.  He commanded the post at Fort Ann which was besieged by a superior British and Indian force under Carleton to whom he, with his fellow compatriots were compelled to surrender.  They were taken prisoners to Quebec and treated with every indignity and severity.  The Sandy Hill Herald in an appropriate obituary notice observes, "That his political life has always been marked with uniformity and integrity as a citizen, his dealings have been just; as a neighbor he was kindly and charitably disposed, and the indigent have ever found him a friend and benefactor."

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY 1878

 Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, June 27, 1848

Marriage

In Davenport [Delaware Co. NY], June 5th, 1878, by Rev. E.P. Crane, E.H. Conine of Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] and Miss Josie F. Dibble of the former place.

Deaths

In Milford [Otsego Co. NY] on the 18th inst. Gertrude [Mevis] daughter of J.W. Mevis, aged 18 years, 5 months and 18 days.  Miss M. was a lovely character, cut down in her early womanhood to the regret of her afflicted relatives and a circle of loving friends.  Her sickness was a brief one, as only a week before she had come home from Lowell, Mass.  She will be missed in the family circle, but she has gone to join the circle of the redeemed.

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] June 18th, Samuel Smith aged 72 years.

In Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY] June 7th, Sallie Slocum, aged 88 years.

In Otego [Otsego Co. NY], June 10th, Ursula C. Buckley aged 4 years and 18 days.

In Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY] June 10th, Chas. Burlingham in the 72d year of his age.

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY], June 15th, Mrs. Erexena Lull wife of Ezra Lull, Sr., aged 78 years, 8 months and 26 days.

At Phoenix Mills [Otsego Co. NY], June 22d, Fannie [Coss] daughter of Elbridge and Sarah Coss, aged 1 year, 1 month and 25 days.

At Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY], June 20th, Alonzo Axedell aged 28 years.

Deacon Timothy Sabin aged about 80, one of the most respected citizens of Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], was found dead in his bed on Tuesday morning of this week.

Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, July 3, 1878

Marriage

Last Wednesday several of our citizens went over to Portlandville [Otsego Co. NY] to attend the wedding of George Yates, 2d of New Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Crandall of Milford [Otsego Co. NY].  A delightful time is reported.  Long life attend the pair and filled with days as calm, and bright and beautiful as the day of their union in wedlock.

Death

June 28: In new Lisbon [Otsego Co. NY], of consumption, Alonzo Van Steinburgh, aged 86 years and 1 day.

______________________

News Item

At Plainfield Center [Otsego Co. NY], Tuesday, Catherine M. Richards a fourteen-year-old daughter of William C. Richards was killed by a bull.  The animal was fastened in the barn and the little girl went into the barn for the purpose of feeding the calves.  At milking time when the hired man went to the barn, he found the little girl on the floor dead and the bull at large in the lot.  [Oneonta Herald & Democrat, Oneonta, NY, June 28, 1878]

A Murder in Plainfield

From the Utica Daily Republican

West Winfield [Herkimer Co. NY], June 27, 3:20 A.M.:  The account published in yesterday's Republican about the death of Catherine m . Richards of Plainfield, Otsego County was correct in all but one thing.  Miss Richards was not gored to death by a bull but was murdered by someone.  An examination of the girl's wounds today showed that they could not have been inflicted by a bull.  Suspicion is excited against Myron Buell, a man employed on her father's farm, as he had on a previous occasion attempted such improprieties as amounted almost to rape.

The story, as nearly as can be ascertained is as follows:  Buell and a man from Florence, named Daniel Bowen, were at work in the hopyard.  About three o'clock, Buell left the field and started toward the house leaving Bowen, as is supposed, at work.  The people were away from home, but Hannah Jones and John L. Davis were at the house, the former being engaged in sewing.  At about the same time that Buell left the hopyard, Miss Richards, who was but fourteen years of age, was seen to leave the house and go toward the barn where she was afterwards found dead.  Buell was also seen in the barn by Davis, who left the house to go into the field.  This was at three o'clock, and Davis had returned to the house before four.  On his way back he passed by the barn and there saw the bull and calves standing docile and well.  At this time the girl was in the house alive and well.  At 4 she left the house and immediately went into the cheese house. When last seen alive she said that she might possibly go berrying.

Soon after, Buell returned to the field and remained there at work until forty minutes past four, when both hands returned to the house.  They found the bull out of the stable and behind the cheese house, where he was never kept.  Buell then passed down to the door of the stable, while Bowen drove the bull into the barn.  Bowen then stepped into the barn and exclaimed: "Catherine is here killed."  Upon this, Buell stepped into the barn and saw the body.  He immediately notified the people in the house of what had occurred. The body of the unfortunate girl lay resting on the left side with a straight wound on the right cheek three-fourths of an inch long.  The temple was crushed in, probably by some blunt instrument.

Buell passed by, paying no attention to the body, going into the house quietly.

The girl's clothes were undisturbed, and it seems that the body must have been placed where it was found by some interested persons.  The body was in the stable in the position which had been previously occupied by the bull, with its head towards the feed trough.

There are three narrow doors in the stable through which manure was thrown out.  All of these were open at noon.  Now two of them were shut.  The other could not be closed except with infinite labor.

A three-legged milking stool was found by Lawyer Aylesworth which was plainly marked with blood on one corner.  It is thought that this was used to inflict the blow on the temple. this blow probably settled the business.  

A strap was also found which corresponded exactly with a bruise mark about the poor girl's neck.  On the right shoulder there is the mark of a thumb nail, as though the girl had been forced down.

The theory resulting from these facts is briefly stated that an attempt was made to ravish the girl and that she resisted. The strap was used to choke of her despairing cries, and when this failed the milking stool was brought into requisition. There are many evidences of a struggle, but there are no marks of blood on the bull's horns, and it certainly is not possible that the latter could have strangled the girl.

Buell says that he came to the house and returned to the meadow to secure a horse and that he was there at the time when Miss Richards' death must have occurred.  In this connection he made some statements as to a fence which had been knocked down, and other circumstances which lawyer Aylesworth, having examined carefully, find to be false.

Dr. W.M. Spencer of Edmeston, Coroner of Otsego County was notified Wednesday, but did not arrive on the scene till the evening, when a jury was selected and after they had viewed the remains, the inquest was adjourned till 9 A.M. Thursday, the 27.

The Richards residence is on the highest part of Plainfield township, Otsego County, some half-a mile from the Welsh Congregational church at Plainfield Centre.

Later:  Buell has been put under arrest, but the death of Catherine Richards is still a mystery and is likely to remain so, despite the earnest efforts of the detectives, the reporters and the neighbors to discover the criminal. The case against Buell is strong, though purely circumstantial and any jury will be liable to hesitate over the two queries:  Was there a murder?  Did Buell commit it?

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY June 1878 & 1880

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 20, 1878

Marriages

At the home of the bride, June 5th, by Rev. J.L. Race, Mr. Edward Daniels to Miss Ettie S. Harrington, both of Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY].

At Pitcher Springs [Chenango Co. NY], June 9th, by A.F. Smith, Esq., Lewis I. Weeks to Miss Laura Ann Eaton of Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], June 13th, Mrs. Desire Driscall, aged 91 years.

In Chenango Forks, N.Y. June 16th, Hannah M. Roos aged 46 years.

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], June 17th, Mr. David L. Davis, aged 51 years.

At Wood's Corners [Chenango Co. NY], June 7th, Theresa J. [Waters] wife of Amos Waters of North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], aged 27 years.

In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY] June 2d, Mr. Justin M. Gager aged 49 years.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, June 22, 1878

Death

HARRIS: In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on Tuesday the 18th inst., Mrs. Smith Harris, aged 51 years, 8 months.

News Item

An Interesting Reunion

Thursday June 18th, 1878, the residence of A.W. Church, about 2-1/2 miles south of Sherburne village [Chenango Co. NY] was the scene of a pleasant gathering of the friends and neighboring relatives of Col. Benjamin Church for the purpose of celebrating his 90th birthday.  The weather was fine, and a company numbering thirty-five were early assembled to offer their congratulations.  This venerable gentleman was born in Stonington, Connecticut, June 18th, 1788.  His parents soon removed to Norwich of the same state [Connecticut], the family consisting of five boys and two girls.  At the age of ten years, he was "bound out" for a year to do work in the summer and attend school three months in winter.  There he remained until the fall of 1801, then thirteen years of age, when he in company with some cousins by the name of Stafford, in the month of November started for Chenango Co., N.Y., taking a route nearly direct to Albany, thence to Cooperstown, New Berlin and to Sherburne "Landing," as they termed it on what is now known as "Buell Hill."  They were about 20 days in making the trip, the road not being as nice as it is now, being obliged to ford streams and encounter all the difficulties of traveling a wood through hundreds of miles of unsettled territory.  At that time Sherburne village consisted of one "Log-house" situated where Elsbro & Co's large store now stands [in 1878], pretty much the whole of the surrounding country being covered by dense forests.  This house was owned and occupied by one Mr. Gray, who then held a contract for turnpiking the road from Sherburne to Smyrna.  To Mrs. Gray the venereal subject of this communication hired and began work immediately at the river bridge west of Sherburne.  He has lived in this vicinity since then, being engaged in various kinds of labor and most of the time hard labor, such as our forefathers who settled and cleared our beautiful valleys only understood.  At the age of 21 he became united by the holy bonds of matrimony to one Miss Coy of DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY] who continued his cherished companion and helpmate until March 1867 when she died.  Sixty years ago, they removed to what is now known as "Church Hill," then in the town of Norwich, now in North Norwich, and settled on the farm where the birthday party assembled last Tuesday.  He reared a family of ten children, five only of whom are now living.  He has now living five children, seventeen grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

He enjoys excellent health, is active, in fact it is very seldom we see persons of his age retain their memory and other faculties so well.  According to our tables of mortality, he has lived out three generations.  Indeed, it was a pleasant sight to see him surrounded by three generations of posterity, his countenance beaming with delight, bespeaking the kind nature by which we have always known him, answering congratulations with kindly wishes that a like experience could safely be vouched for all.  It was an occasion of rare occurrence and one long to be remembered by those present.  We could but notice the contrast between the faces of a baby grandchild and that of its grandparent.  The countenance of the one was marked by a thousand little creases, which in the other, busy time had taken pleasure in wearing away with the flat part of his scythe leaving in their stead the well-worn furrows of his deeper operations  The brow of one manifesting no sign of thought, while on that of the other, the same deceitful time and his brother care had set their well-known marks.  The one just beginning, the other seemingly near the end of the journey of life.  And so, amid contemplations and exchanging friendly communications we passed the day, and the time gradually approached when we should part again.  In behalf of this venerable gentleman, his grandson B.A Church thanked the company for their kindness towards his aged grand sire.  At the same time paying due respect to the absent living relatives, and a tribute to those who have from time to time been called to their final homes "not made with hands eternal in the heavens."  And thus ended one of the pleasantest birthday celebrations, if so it may be termed, that it has ever been my lot to participate in and ere we had all departed.

"The day was done, and darkness had fallen / From the wings of night, / Like an eagle wafted / Downward in his flight."

Weekly Press, Afton, NY, July 20, 1880

Deaths

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

News Item

Five Times Married

A very remarkable case was developed at the police court on Tuesday, when Zachariah Butcher was arraigned on the charge of bigamy.  The complainant is Ellen Sanders Butcher who lives on Third avenue, New York.  The prisoner was sent to jail to await an examination.  Strange to say, the accused looks upon himself as something of a romantic hero.  He apparently delights in a rehearsal of connubial exploits.  He is sixty years old, and according to his own statement has enjoyed the associations of five wives.  Wife No. 1 was Sarah Debman an English woman, whom he married in England in 1846, and lived with three years, when she died.  He then came to America.  Wife No. 2 was a widow, Mrs. Maria Costello whom he married in 1851.  In January 1852, she died suddenly while at the supper table.  Wife No. 3 was Miss Pattock aged 36, whom he married in 1856.  He says she did not like his style of living and left him.  Wife No. 4 was Mrs. Sanders the complainant who he married in 1867.  They lived together until a daughter was born to them, when he became dissatisfied and in 1876 went to Providence, R.I.  From there he came to this city [Albany, NY], bringing his daughter along.  Wife No. 5 was Miss Mary Jones living on Clinton Avenue in this city to whom he was married November 20, 1876.  Three months afterwards she left him and proceeded to England.  His marriage with Miss Jones he says could only have recently reached the complainants knowledge.  He says they agreed in 1872 to separate and if he has committed any offense, he is willing to suffer.  The daughter, of which wife No. 4 is the mother, and which has been with its father for four years, was sent to the house of shelter by Justice Nott until the  case has been disposed of.  Mrs. Butcher, wife No. 4, left for New York Tuesday evening to obtain the necessary proof of her marriage.  Albany Press

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, June 1878

 Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 22, 1878

Deaths

HEWITT:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on Friday morning the 21st inst. William S. Hewitt, only son of Col. Ezra Hewitt, aged 29 years, 6 months and 14 days.

On Friday morning soon after the hour of midnight, William Snow Hewitt quietly - peacefully entered into the spirit land.  Though not unlooked for, the announcement comes upon our community with fearful suddenness.  Mr. Hewitt was born in this village in December 1848 and was at the time of his death twenty-nine years, six months and fourteen days old.  His early boyhood and youth were spent at our academy where he obtained a liberal education.  He afterwards entered the Eastman Business College at Poughkeepsie and by a thorough course there he abundantly fitted himself for that business prominence which characterized him in after life.  Leaving college he entered the law office of Isaac S. Newton, Esq., and after close study and application was admitted to practice law in 1872.  He entered into practice and bid fair to attain distinction at the bar.  In May 1872, however, he was tendered the position of Teller at the Bank of Norwich, which he accepted, an occupation much more congenial to him than the practice of the law.  He continued in this position until forced to resign it in April 1877, on account of failing health.  At that time he visited the Southern States with the hope of finding permanent relief, but on his return in June, it was too painfully apparent that consumption had marked him for its own.  From that time to this, he has rapidly declined until as above stated, his disease terminated fatally, and thus has passed away one of the most promioung men it was ever our good fortune to know.

Mr. Hewitt was an active worker in all the interests of the community as well as the church.  He was the first County Chief Templar, an office which he held for years, throwing his every influence upon the side of Temperance.   He was one of the founders of the Norwich Circulating library Association and was its first President, an office which he held at his death.  To his endeavors more than all else is that institution indebted for its success, and we believe the energy and life he infused into it, will cause it to long survive, a monument of his energy, public spirit and far sightedness.  He was also for a long time Librarian of the Congregational Sunday School, and for many years a Trustee of the society.  In all good works he was zealous and seemed happiest when engaged in some labor which should ameliorate or elevate the condition of his fellows.

He was the only son of Col. and Mrs. Ezra Hewitt, and the shaft of death deprives them of the stay and help which they vainly hoped would be accorded to them in their old age.  A number of years since he married the daughter of Gen. PerLee, who with his infant child survives him.  To all of the stricken, the loss is a great tone, and the warmest sympathies of our entire people mingle with their grief.  The loss is a great one to the community as well, and his death teaches anew the lesson to our youth, that a virtuous, Christian life meets with its reward here as well as hereafter and that his life emulated and followed will lead them to the dark waters without fear and enable them as it did him to pass over with the full consciousness that "it is well with him"

His funeral will be attended on Sunday afternoon at four o'clock from his father's residence on North Broad Street.

BURLINGAME:  Holmesville, Chenango Co. NY:  The funeral of Mrs. James L. Burlingame was attended at the F.B Church on Monday last, Rev. J.H. Boyce of South New Berlin, officiating, assisted by Rev. C.A. Morehouse.  Mrs. B. has been an invalid for years and a great sufferer.

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News Item

Unadilla Valley, Chenango Co. NY:  We are sorry to state that diphtheria still prevails, cases scattered here and there through the valley and on the hills on either side.  Mrs. Barber, wife of George Barber, Esq., died on the 14th inst.  Mrs. D. Phetteplace is very ill with the same disease.  A little son of Frank Bowen has been very sick but is now recovering.  Miss Leona North who has been prostrated for several weeks by this disease is recovering.  

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, June 19, 1878

Marriages

UTTER - FOOTE:  At the home of the bride, June 5th, by Rev. H.G. Harnard, Mr. W.E. Utter of Bennettsville [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Ella R. Foote of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY].

East McDonough, Chenango Co. NY:  On Thursday, the 6th, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Ingraham celebrated the 20th anniversary of their wedding.  The day opened fair, an emblem fitting for the full enjoyment of the affair.  The spread was arranged beautiful and tasty, several cakes were trimmed with mottos and inscriptions justly appropriate to the occasion.  Mr. and Mrs. Ingraham were the recipients of many valuable presents, including an abundance of silver ware.  The day was pleasantly passed, the young people played various games, while the older ones recalled bygone days and the happy times enjoyed.  The parties received the congratulations of many friends upon their success in life and the best wishes for future prosperity.  May they live to celebrate their golden wedding was the sentiment of all present.

Guilford, Chenango Co. NY:  Married, June 4th, at the residence of the bride's father, by Rev. W. DeL Wilson, Mr. Bennett of Morrisville [Madison Co. NY] to Miss Julia [Bradley] youngest daughter of Augustus Bradley.

Deaths

SMITH:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], June 2d, Carrie O. []Smith] wife of Wm. A. Smith, aged 22 years.

CHAFEY:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], June 8th, Mr. Elisha Chafey aged 79 years.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, June 1878

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 20, 1878

Marriages

CASWELL - BLIVEN:  At the residence of the bride's father, by Rev. A.P. Merrill, Mr. E.M. Caswell of Brockport, N.Y. [Monroe Co.] to Miss Nettie A. Bliven of Preston [Chenango Co. NY].

WILBUR - WINCHEL:  In Cincinnatus [Cortland Co. NY], June 5th, by Rev. A.C. Smith, Mr. G.R. Wilbur of Triangle [Broome Co. NY] to Miss Philena Winchel of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

CORBIN - KELLOGG:  At Elizabeth, N.J., June 12th, by Rev. W.C. Roberts, D.D., Mr. William H. Corbin to Miss Clementine Kellogg all of Elizabeth.

Deaths

BARBER:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], June 15th, Ella A. [Barber] wife of George Barber, aged 29 years, 4 months, and 7 days, daughter of Henry Wheeler and granddaughter of Aaron B. Gates of this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

Death by diphtheria(?) occurred to the wife of George Barber at her residence near this place [Guilford] on Saturday morning of last week.  She leaves a husband and three children, the eldest hardly more than three years old, to mourn her loss.  The funeral will occur today (Monday).  Mr. Barber and little ones have the sympathy of the entire community in their great affliction.

BILLINGS:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], June 14th, Frederick P. [Billings] son of Burdette and Ella Billings, aged 5 years and 6 months.

Burdette Billings family met with a sad bereavement on Friday in the death of their oldest child, Freddie, the result of stepping on a tack about a week before. Freddie was an unusually attractive child and was beloved by all. The family have the sympathy of the entire community in this their hour of sad affliction.

WINSOR:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], June 4th, at the residence of her son-in-law, Glover Ives, Mrs. Lovisa Winsor, aged 92 years.  Deceased became a resident of Guilford when but seventeen years of age and at the time of her death was the oldest woman in the town.

CORBIN:  At Saratoga Springs, June 2d, Lydia H. [Corbin] wife of Henry J. Corbin, aged 69 years, formerly of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY].

The funeral of Mrs. Corbin of Saratoga Springs occurred in this village [New Berlin] last week.  She was the only remaining sister of Mrs. Joseph Arnold who has been with her during the last months of her sickness.  She was a great sufferer, but bore it all with meekness and patience, until the dim shadows of this life were changed to eternal day.  She was laid away to rest in the quiet little cemetery just below our village, where the murmur of the silvery Unadilla never disturbs the ear of its silent sleepers.  Mrs. Arnold and her excellent family feel the sad affliction deeply.

ROSE:  Chenango Forks, Broome Co. NY:  Mrs. Hannah Rose died on the 16th inst. of consumption.  The funeral took place from her late residence on Tuesday morning, at 10 o'clock.

LEWIS:  Chenango Forks, Broome Co. NY:  Ellis Lewis of Fenton [Broome Co. NY] died on Sunday night at 12 M, aged about 70 years.  Cause of death was typhoid pneumonia. The funeral we understand, is appointed for Wednesday.

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CONWAY:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], June 14th, after a lingering illness, Katie [Conway] only daughter of Corneilus Conway, aged 29 years.  Her funeral was largely attended at St. Patrick's Church on Sunday morning and many sympathizing friends followed her remains to Oxford [Chenango Co. NY] where they were interred in the family lot in the Catholic cemetery.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 19, 1878:  The above announcement is not an unexpected one, for after years of pain and sickness and seeming oscillation between life and death, the announcement has been looked for at any time.  Katie was an only daughter, but not as such alone was she the pet of the household.  Her gentle manners, kind disposition, and real goodness of heart endeared her to all, so that whether in the family circle, in the Sunday or day school, or with her youthful companions, she was universally beloved and esteemed, and when at last the final blow fell, it struck not only her immediate relatives and friends, but all who knew her, as well.  This was particularly apparent at her funeral at St. Patrick's Church on Sunday morning, which, notwithstanding the driving storm, was filled to its utmost capacity with sympathizing friends and acquaintances who came to mingle their grief with the stricken parents and brothers.  The beautiful and feeling remarks of the pastor, Rev. Father Harrigan found a ready response in the hearts of all present. and as each one filed past the casket and gazed upon the face of the dead, the oft noticed tear attested how well she was beloved.  The burial took place in the family yard at the Catholic ground in Oxford, where other children of Mr. C. have been buried before, and the remains were accompanied by a large number of friends. We would mingle our sympathies, with those of our entire community, with the afflicted family in their bereavement.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 19, 1878

Marriage

LAMB - CASTLE:  At the Unadilla House in Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], May 29, 1878, by Rev. J.W. Mevis, Mr. Eliott Lamb and Miss Eliza M. castle, both of Otego [Otsego Co. NY].

GATES - EVANS:  At Centerville [Allegany Co. NY] June 15th by Rev.  H.G. Harned, of Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY], Mr. Addison Gates of Madison Co. [NY] to Miss Ada Evans, of Centerville, N.Y.

Deaths

Smithville, Chenango Co. NY:  There has been quite a number of cases of diphtheria in town, causing the death of two persons, one, a daughter of George Kinnier aged six years and a son of Wm. Gipson.  We are glad to state that it is abating.

Smithville, Chenango Co. NY:  George Taylor's wife was buried last Friday.  She was taken with typhoid fever some weeks ago and was recovering, when inflammation of the lungs set in, causing her death. She leaves one daughter, aged five years.  She was twenty-six years of age.

Vital Records, Delaware County, NY, July to September 1824

 Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, July 28, 1824

Marriage

At Westford, Otsego Co. [NY] on the 15th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Caldwell, Amasa Thayer Esq. Attorney at Law of Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Waity Smith of Westford.

Deaths

In this town [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] on Wednesday the 21st inst. Mr. John B. Phelps in the 66th year of his age.

In Andes [Delaware Co. NY] on Tuesday the 7th inst. Mrs. Anne Barlow consort of Mr. Samuel Barlow in the 72nd year of her age.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, August 18, 1824

Marriage

In this town [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY], last evening, by the Rev. John Bangs, Mr. David R. Slotte to Miss Polly Hawkins, both of Delhi.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, September 8, 1824

Marriages

In this town [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] on Thursday last by Elder Mabie, Mr. John Blanchard to Miss Polly Dibble.

In Meredith [Otsego Co. NY] on the same day by Elder Tuttle, Mr. Levi Dutton to Miss Abby Benedict.

Deaths

In this town [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] on the 2d inst. Mr. George Mason, aged about 53 years.

In the town of Walton [Delaware Co. NY], on the 6th inst. Mr. Jonathan Smith.

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In this village [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY] on Thursday evening last, in the thirtieth year of his age, Ozias S. Decker, Esquire, Counselor at Law.

The afflicting dispensation which so early exacted from him the debt of nature, has wrung the hearts of an attached circle of friends and deprived the profession to which he belonged of one whom native talents and correct habits eminently qualified for success.  Among his professional brethren none beheld fairer prospects of eminence and usefulness, for none attracted a more lively regard, or enjoyed more cordial and general esteem.

In testimony of their respect for his memory, the following resolutions were adapted by the Members of the Delaware Bar at a meeting held at the court House on the 4th inst. of which General Erastus Root was Chairman and Levinas Mosson, Esq. Secretary.

Resolved, That while assembled to pay the last tribute of respect to our deceased friend, Ozias S. Decker, Esq. our feelings prompt us to say, that in him the Bar is deprived of one of its most worthy members.  The fine talents with which nature had enriched him had been cultivated in a manner to ensure distinction to himself and usefulness to his fellow men. The high hopes of his friends, formed from those presages which he had evinced of future eminence as a lawyer, have been blasted by his untimely death.  But not his merits only as a member of that profession which he adorned claim our regard.  Society is called to mourn the loss of an upright and public spirited citizen.  His social virtues will long endear him to our fond recollections.  Amiable in his manners, frank and generous in disposition, sincere in his friendships, he won the love of his friends and the esteem of his acquaintance.

Resolved, As a faint testimonial of our respect for his virtues we will wear crape on the left arm until the expiration of the term of our County Court in October next.

The funeral solemnities took place on Saturday, and were rendered edifying and impressive by an appropriate discourse delivered at the Court House by the Rev. E.K. Mainsil, after which the remains of the deceased were interred with military honors by the Company of Infantry late under his commend joined by the Officers of Col. Foote's Regiment, the Members of the Bar, and a numerous concourse of citizens.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, September 15, 1824

Marriage

In Walton [Delaware Co. NY], on Tuesday the 7th inst.. by the Rev. Isaac Headley, Mr. Caleb S. Benedict of Walton to Miss Eliza Annis Hoyt late of Wilton, Connecticut.

Deaths

In Middletown [Orange Co. NY] in the 71st year of his age, John Grant, Esq.

In this town [Delhi, Delaware Co. NY], on Monday last, Morris F. [Fitch] son of Dr. Cornelius R. Fitch, aged two years and six months.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, September 22, 1824

Marriage

In Catskill [Greene Co. NY] on Wednesday the 15th inst. by the Rev. Mr. Prentiss, Edwin Croswell Esq., Editor of the Albany Argus to Miss Catharine Adams daughter of John Adams Esq.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, September 29, 1824

Marriage

In Walton [Delaware Co. NY] on Sunday the 26th inst. by the Rev. Isaac Hadley, Mr. Smith St. John to Miss Melissa Coleman daughter of Daniel Coleman, Jun.

Delaware Gazette, Delhi, NY, September 22, 1824

News Item

Trial for Murder

At a Court of Over and Terminer, held at Montrose, Pa. last week by the Hon. Edward Herrick, Jason Treadwell was tried on an indictment for the murder of Oliver Harper, in May last.  The trial commenced on Wednesday morning, and was very ably conducted by Messrs. Eldred, Mallory and Read, on the part of the Commonwealth, and Messrs. Case and Williston for the prisoner.  After argument of counsel and a clear and lucid charge, the case was submitted to the jury on Saturday evening.  On Sunday morning the jury returned a verdict of Guilty.

The testimony, although principally circumstantial, was clear and pointed; irresistibly establishing the prisoner's guilt, and exhibiting in him a depravity of heart, seldom evinced in cases of equal magnitude. Treadwell, no doubt, had meditated the murder of Harper for several days previous to carrying his designs into execution.  He had ascertained, as near as possible, the time Mr. Harper would return from Philadelphia to which place Mr. Harper had been with lumber.  Having blacked and disguised himself, he lay in wait nearly two days in an unfrequently tract of woods adjoining the road Mr. Harper would necessarily travel, a few miles distant from his residence. It does not appear that Mr. Harper was in any way appraised of the approach of the murderer.  He was shot through the head and instantly expired.  Treadwell then rifled his pockets of about $400 and fled to the woods.  On the day the murder was committed, he was seen with his rifle by a Mr. Welton, blacked and secreted by the way, near the spot where Mr. Harper was found.  He was subsequently recognized by Mr. Welton.  This, with other circumstances led to his detection and finally to his conviction.  Early on Monday morning last, sentence of death was passed upon him.  He appeared quite unconcerned. During the whole trial and on the judge' pronouncing the awful sentence of the law, he remained unmoved, as if unconscious of his fearful situation or the deep depravity of the crime he had committed. The time of execution is, by the laws of that state, to be fixed by the governor.

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY, 1809, 1947, 1848 & 1853

 The Impartial Observer, Cooperstown, NY, January 7, 1809

Death

On the 15th ult. in Otsego [Otsego Co. NY] Mrs. Abigail Mathewson in the 59th year of her age.

The Impartial Observer, Cooperstown, NY, January 14, 1809

Death

On the 15th ult. Col. Jacob Hochstrasser of Trenton in the County of Oneida [NY].  He was an officer in the patriot army of our revolution, and for several years after the war, was a member of the Legislature for the respectable County of Albany.

Otsego Democrat, Cooperstown, NY, November 20, 1847

Marriage

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], on the 18th inst. by H.S. Babcock, Esq., Mr. Robison Carr to Miss Caroline Eldred both of Laurens [Otsego Co. NY].

Cherry Valley Gazette, Cherry Valley, NY, March 8, 1848

Marriage

In Louisville [St. Lawrence Co. NY], on the 16th ult by the Rev. Mr. Dodge, H.J. Ball of Oswego to Miss Ruth Ann Blend of Middlefield [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

In Edmeston [Otsego Co. NY] on the 24th ult. Mrs. Martha Deming, relict of the late Col. Adin Deming in the 79th year of her age.

In Worcester [Otsego Co. NY], on the 25th ult. Mr. Nathan Adams aged about 43 years.

In Decatur [Otsego Co. NY] on the 21st ult., Mrs. Nancy [Thayer] wife of Mr. Jonathan Thayer, aged about 61 years.

In South Valley [Cattaraugus Co. NY] on the 22d ult. Mr. Noah Adsitt, aged about 80 years.

In Worcester [Otsego Co. NY], on the 10th ult., Mr. Charles Wait, aged about 50 years.

In Westford [Otsego Co. NY] on the 16th ult, Miss Abigail Washburn, aged 23 years.

In Worcester [Otsego Co., NY] on the 19th Jan., Mrs. Nancy Campbell aged 30 years.

In Worcester [Otsego Co. NY], on the 13th Jan., Mrs. Asenith Thompson aged 65 years.

At Buffalo [Erie Co. NY], on the 12th ult. Mr. Alanson Pierson, aged 43 years, formerly of Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY].

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, February 16, 1853

Marriage

In Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], on the 7th inst. by Rev. J.N. Adams Mr. Ransom B Quimby to Miss Caroline Arnold both of Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

In Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY] on Saturday morning the 5th inst. John C. Doubleday son of Seth Doubleday Esq. in the 32d year of his age.

In Morris [Otsego Co. NY], Jan. 27th, Wm. C. Matterson, youngest son of Joshua D. Matterson, aged 21 years.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, March 16, 1853

Marriage

At Milford Centre [Otsego Co. NY] on the 9th inst. by Rev. J. Soule, Mr. Theodore Marvin of Fly Creek [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Minerva Soule of Milford Centre.

Oneonta Herald, Oneonta, NY, March 23, 1853

Marriage

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], March 16, by Rev. E.C. Hodge, Mr. George Figger of Oneonta to Miss Rebecca Wilson of Davenport, Del. Co. [NY].

Death

In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], Dec. 31, 1852, of Consumption, Mrs. Jane E. [Scofield] wife of Mr. William H. Scofield aged 34 years.

She bore her sufferings with Christian fortitude and in the darkest, saddest hour, triumphed over man's last enemy, death, by exhibiting a faith in the soul's immortality clear, bright and glorious.  She has left husband, children and friends to whom she had endeared herself by many amiable dualities of heart and acts of kindness during her life.

At a special meeting of the Oneonta Tent, No. 562, I.O. of R. of which Mr. Scofield is a member, it was resolved that we drebly sympathize with our afflicted brother and that while he remembers with grief the irreparable loss he has sustained, we hope he will not forget that he has a band of brothers who will rally around him, willing each and all to share his grief and lighten his burthen, until called hence by the high Chief Ruler, to meet the glorified spirit of her he loved in the Tent of everlasting peace.

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY, 1878

 Morris Chronicle, Morris, NY, June 26, 1878

Deaths

June 25:  In Morris [Otsego Co. NY], William Fleming aged 52 years.

May 25:  In Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY], Ada [Davis] only daughter of Adelbert and Mary Davis, aged 11 months and 12 days.

Four little ones has Christ taken from these stricken parents, but safe are they within the enclosure of heaven.  May the parents thus sadly bereaved greet them in the sunny land.

"I take these little lambs says he / And fold them in my breast; / Protection they shall find in me, / In me be ever blest."

News Item

On Thursday last, Charles and Freddie Day, aged respectively thirteen and nine years, sons of James H. Day of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], were out in a field with a rifle trying to shoot crows and squirrels.  The younger of the two was just recovering from a severe illness and was hardly able to be out.  While going through a field they were attacked by a ferocious bull and endeavored to run and thus escape the infuriated animal.  It would have been an easy matter for the older boy to escape, but Freddie was soon exhausted by his efforts which was noticed by his brother, and as he began to lag and could run no longer, Charles placed himself between the pursued and pursuer, just as the hot breath of the bull could almost be felt, and seeing that he could not turn the animal, drew his rifle and with wonderful nerve and coolness fired, killing the beast instantly and thus saving his brother. 

Oneonta Herald & Democrat, Oneonta, NY, june 21, 1878

Marriage

At Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], June 13, by Rev. L.M. Purlington, A.W. Banker of Great Bend, Pa. and Mrs. Mary E. Butler, of Unadilla.

Deaths

In Walton [Delaware Co. NY], June 13, Clark [Launt] son of P.P. Launt, aged 18 years.

In Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY], June 10, Ester [Parsons] wife of Lucius Parsons, aged 25 years.

In North Harpersfield [Delaware Co. NY], June 13 Oscar Ellsworthy aged 32 years.

In Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY], June 18th, Orra Peabody in the 79th year of his age.

News Item

Family Reunion

Tuesday, the 11th inst. was a most joyous and happy day to many of the descendants and their immediate friends of William Stevens, one of the pioneers of the town of Milford [Otsego Co. NY].  The occasion was the annual reunion of the numerous and honored living posterity of their worthy progenitor at the "old homestead" now occupied by Ezra Stevens, the younger son of the pioneer.

Prospectively the day was unpropitious, but before the sun had passed the meridian, brighter skies had dawned, and members and friends of the family had assembled to the number of one  hundred.  It was indeed a harmonious and happy reunion, one long to be remembered by all who participated.  The aged seemed to live in the golden past once more and the young listened with unwonted interest and delight to the thrilling reminiscences of their grandfather's days.

Here on the identical spot where William Stevens, the esteemed ancestor more than eight years before first set foot and braved the dangers and hardships of a wilderness home, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren join in happy greeting and in honoring the name of one that was as noble as he was brave, one in whose veins coursed "That blood of honest fame, / Which no tyranny could tame / By its charms."  Of the hardy New England stamp he was one of those to whom we owe so much for our glorious civilization.

A bountiful repast came in its order, after which the chairman, Alvin Lyon announced that the hour set apart for the intellectual feast had arrived.  Ezra Stevens than presented briefly an interesting genealogy which he had prepared of the family, dating several generations prior to the time of his father's family.  The history showed that the family had ever been marked for giving to the world men and women of sterling worth.

Of the immediate descendants of William Stevens, about one hundred and thirty are now living and are every way worthy to perpetuate the name and virtues of him whom they love to remember with veneration.

Rev. A.S. Clark spoke briefly of the lessons to be drawn from the occasion, while we admire the noble spirit of our fathers, we should pay our obligations to posterity in full.

Alvin Lyon, a son-in-law of the elder Stevens, for more than eighty years a resident of the town, spoke of his intimate acquaintance with the family for the greater part of his life.  He also related some of the stirring experiences of the early settlers.  A most interesting old man he is, apparently good for another decade or two.

The history of the Stevens family possesses a new interest just now, as we are on the eve of the one hundredth anniversary of the massacre of Wyoming. William Stevens, our hero, and the father of a numerous family, eight of whom are still living, was one of the survivors of this ill-fated hour.  Though only six years of age, he remembered to the day of his death, twenty years ago, the bloody scene there enacted.  In company with other survivors, he went to New England from whence he subsequently came to give the vigor of his manhood and the glory of his age, and better still, a noble posterity to bless the age in which we live.  

A.S. Clark, Laurens, June 17, 1878

Vital Records, Otsego County, NY, June 1878

 Freeman's Journal, Cooperstown, NY, June 20, 1878

Deaths

In this town [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], June 13th, Orra Peabody in the 79th year of his age.  He was born in Pierstown at Leatherstocking Falls [Otsego Co. NY] and has always resided in Otsego [Otsego Co. NY], He has ever borne the character of an industrious, honest and upright citizen and was an exemplary member of the Presbyterian Church.

In Richfield Springs [Otsego Co. NY] June 10th, Anna Conkin [Hinds] wife of Charles J. Hinds and only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ezra Conklin in the 20th year of her age.

At Phoenix Mills [Otsego Co. NY], June 17th, '78, Martin [Coss] son of Eben and Sarah Coss, aged 4 years, 11 months and 12 days.

At East Worcester [Otsego Co. NY], June 8th, Nancy M. Felter [Rockerfellow], wife of John Rockerfellow, aged 69 years, 7 months and 2 days.

In Laurens [Otsego Co. NY], May 10th, Samuel Derby aged 73 years.

In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] May 20th, Mrs. Betsey Silver aged 77 years. 

In Elk Creek [Otsego Co. NY], May 31st, Charles Brownell aged 51 years and 4 months.

In this village [Cooperstown, Otsego Co. NY], June 7th, John H. Bartlett of Natick, Mass., aged 54 years.

At Worcester [Otsego Co. NY], june 11th, Benjamin Millias, aged 61 years, 2 months and 2 days.

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Whereas it has pleased our Grand Master to remove from among us our esteemed Brother Henry Fitch and 

Whereas, We desire to put upon record our regard for him as a man and a Mason; therefore

Resolved, that in the death of brother Fitch, Farmers' Lodge has lost a valued and useful member. and each individual brother a friend.  We sincerely mourn his loss, yet believe that the Masons' God is a God of justice and that his tender mercies are over all his works.  Mourning not as those without hope, we fondly trust that our loss is our brother's eternal gain. We rejoice that our Supreme Grand master has given Him Divine promise that He will be a father to the fatherless and the widow's God and to Him we commend the stricken widow for that consolation which is beyond our power to impart.

Resolved, That our Lodge Room be draped in mourning for thirty days.  That these resolutions be entered in the minutes and published in the Freeman's Journal and Otsego Republican and a copy thereof be presented to the family of the deceased with the assurance of our warmest sympathy.

Committee: William Joslyn, S.B. Ackerman, William Talbot; West Burlington [Otsego Co. NY], June 12, 1878.

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At a regular communication of Evergreen lodge, No. 363, held at their rooms at Springfield Center [Otsego Co. NY], May 2, 1878, the following preamble and resolutions were adopted:

Whereas It has pleased the Ruler of the Universe in His wise providence to remove by death out worthy brother, Hiram R. Wood, therefore

Resolved, That in his death this Lodge has lost an exemplary, worthy member, the community an upright citizen, his family an indulgent father and loving brother.

Resolved, That we deeply sympathize with the relatives in this severe affliction and although their loss is irreparable, his memory will long survive, enshrined in the hearts of those who knew and loved him well.

Resolved, That the above be published in the Cooperstown papers, a copy be presented to the family of the deceased and entered upon the minutes of this Lodge.

Committee:  J.A. Greegs, A. Tillon, D.C. Curtis.

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On Monday evening last, as the train on the Cooperstown Road was nearing Phoenix Mills [Otsego Co. NY], engineer Sith saw a man ahead, walking on the track.  He gave the usual warning, sharp and repeatedly, and then seeing that he did not step off the track as expected, Mr. S. Whisted "down breaks" and reversed his engine, but the distance was too short in which to stop the train, and the man was taken up by the cow catcher, thrown back upon the bumper, breaking his right leg and arm and inflicting a severe bruise upon the back of his head.  Fatal injuries were inflicted, and he has remained in a comatose condition from the time he was struck until 10 Tuesday A.M.  His death is hourly expected.

The name of the unfortunate man is Daniel Cahoone, 66 years of age and deaf and dumb.  He is a resident of Herkimer County [NY] and was on a visit to his brother-in-law Mr. Reynolds at the Phoenix.  A few years ago, he sustained severe injuries in the same manner, while walking upon the railroad track near Richfield [Otsego Co. NY].  He was taken to Mr. R.'s house and the R.R. Co. sent Doct. Hills immediately to see him on the arrival of the train, but nothing could be done for him.  He was so badly injured that he seemed entirely unconscious.

No blame attaches to the engineer in this case.  It is his almost daily experience to see people walking on the track ahead of the approaching train and many of them will refuse to leave it until the engine is almost upon them.  This man's condition was of course unknown and unsuspected, and he was expected to step aside in time as others do, until it was too late to prevent the collision.

P.S. Mr. C. died about 11 o'clock A.M.

News Item

Four generations of the family of Mrs. Sally W. [Steere] relict of James Steere of Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY] celebrated her eightieth birthday on Friday last, at the old homestead in that town.  Between fifty and sixty persons were present and an enjoyable time was passed with the usual picnic, songs and speeches.  "Aunt Sally Steere" has lived a long, busy and useful life.  She began her married career at the head of about thirty persons, many of them being in her own immediate family, and though she always had the care and supervision of a large household, yet her energy and management have enabled her to  find time and means to help the poor, to assist her neighbors in sickness, to entertain her large circle of friends, to cultivate her rare and beautiful house plants and flower garden, and still keep her home as a model of neatness, economy and convenience, and the finished specimens of her industry and handiwork, in the shape of extra fine homemade linens are the admiration of all her loving guests - yet, proudest thought of all, she is the mother of eleven children, of whom five sons and two daughters remain to bless her in living the Christian lives she has ever impressed upon them by both precept and example.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, June 1878 & 1880

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, June 12, 1878

Marriage

On Monday evening last week, it being the fifteenth anniversary of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. M.V.B. Winsor, a number of their friends surprised them with their presence, presents, congratulations and refreshments.  The bride and groom of fifteen years seemed loth to submit at first, but later they escorted their guests up to the Hall where the ever ready Mead, with fiddle in hand, made music that brought the fantastic toe to the mark.  Mr. and Mrs. Winsor, if older than fifteen years ago, were young enough, and Miss Callie, their only child, whose bright pleasing manner and intelligent conversation are so well known, surely ought to compensate them for any evidences of age that those years have brought.  The presents were many, varied, useful and beautiful, the refreshments were such as the Guilford ladies always furnish. None can say more, I speak advisedly, and the evening was pleasantly passed by all.  May this most worthy couple never have less friends than now and may their ways be ways of pleasantness always.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, June 15, 1878

Marriages

DEYO - DURKEE:  At the M.E. Parsonage in Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], May 25th, by the Rev. W.G. Queal, Mr. David Deyo of South Plymouth, NY to Mrs. Allince A. Durkeek of Salem, Mass.

TAYLOR - EDMONDS:  In Grace Church, San Francisco, May 30, 1878, by Rev. F.O. Barstow, Mr. William O. Taylor and Miss Clementine [Edmonds] daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Edmunds all of that city.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, June 13, 1878

Marriages

WALDORF - TREADWELL:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], May 22d by Rev. J. Jones, Mr. Berliu H. Waldorf and Miss Nellie A. Treadwell, both of East Worcester [Otsego Co. NY].

WARNER - LORD:  In Sanford [Broome Co. NY], May 22d by Rev. A. Lord, Mr. Howard Warner of Windsor [Broome Co. NY] and Miss Vinnie Lord of Sanford.

Deaths

Sidney Plains, Delaware Co. NY:  Mrs. L. Parsons died Monday morning.  She leaves many sorrowing hearts.  Her Christian example and her kindness to all won the respect and love of all who know her.  She expressed herself as ready and willing to go to a better home.  We trust she is now where sorrow and death never come.  Funeral services at the house Wednesday morning by her special request.  Rev. Mr. Johnson officiated and preached from words of her own selection.

Weekly Press, Afton, NY, May 20,1880

Marriage

David Beers of Montana, N.J. and Welthy L. Lyon of Afton [Chenango Co. NY] were united in holy matrimony by Rev. E.T. Jacobs, at his residence on the morning of May 19. (Marriage of two mutes).

Deaths

Died in Afton [Chenango Co. NY], May 20th, at the residence of her son-in-law, N.B. Stowell, Mrs. Clarissa Patrick aged 85 years and 3 months.  Her remains were taken to Cuyler, Cortland County, N.Y. and buried by the side of her husband, the late Henry Patrick, one of the oldest inhabitants of that town.

Henry Cook of Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY] while attempting to cross the track in front of an advancing train, was struck and killed by the locomotive.  He was working on the highway and not hearing the whistle had passed nearly across with a load, when the engine struck the hind end of the wagon and threw him violently against the front of the engine which carried him some distance before they were able to stop.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, June 1878

 Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 12, 1878

Marriage

TIFFANY - TURNHAM:  In Round Rock, Williamson County, Texas, April 4th, by Rev. J.F. Battaile, Mr. Frank A. Tiffany, of Mexico, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Mrs. Zoe Turnham daughter of Gen. Hazard P. Hale.

Under its appropriate headings in today's Telegraph will be found the notice of the marriage of Frank R. Tiffany, well-known as a former Norwich boy, and son of John M. Tiffany of this village [Norwich].  Frank now resides in Texas and though far away, his many friends here wills be glad to hear of his good fortune and tender congratulations accordingly.  Ye typhos of the Telegraph office unite in good wishes to their old companion.

Deaths

Just now the family of Oscar Gager of this village [Mt. Upton, Chenango Co. NY] is a sadly bereaved one.  On May 26 a daughter aged 19, wife of Egbert Lamphere, died on Tuesday; following another daughter died on her 14th birthday; also, the infant of Mrs. Lamphere on the same day; and on the 2nd day of June their daughter Carrie, wife of Wilber Smith, was borne by sorrowing friends to her last resting place; all victims of that terrible disease diphtheria.  Only one more death has occurred here from the same cause, a son of Levi Lamphere aged 3 years, all the other cases are rapidly improving.  There is something remarkable in the fatality of this disease.  It has been confined almost entirely to families closely related.  It will be remember that Norman Nichols of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] lost several children a short time ago, and Mrs. Nichols is a sister of Mrs. Gager and Mr. Lamphere.  Can learned doctors explain.

Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY:  Justin Gager a much respected farmer residing two miles east of this village, died very suddenly at his residence last week.  The cause is attributed to heart disease.

Chenango Forks, Broome Co. NY:  Horace Cornelius lost a child aged nine months with inflammation on t he lungs last Saturday.  Funeral on Monday at 10 o'clock A.M.

Chenango Forks, Broome Co. NY:  Mrs. Irene Stowell daughter of Harmon B. Terwilliger, died on Saturday last.  Obsequies took place at her late residence at Smithville [Chenango Co. NY] on Sunday.

North Norwich, Chenango Co. NY:  Friday afternoon, when the sad and painful message reached this village, of the sudden and untimely death of Mrs. Amos Waters, the wife of one of our citizens. It spread like wildfire and was soon known to all.  Sometime during Wednesday, Mr. Bissell, the father of the deceased, came to this village, and took her to his own home, thinking perhaps that the change might possibly be beneficial to her feeble health and better care could be given her although at that time she was not considered dangerously ill, but rather on the gain.  She was about the house, until almost up to the hour of her death.  The funeral was held at the house of Mr. Fitch Bissell at Wood's Corners, Sunday afternoon. Rev. Samuel Scoville of Norwich officiated. The remains of the deceased were brought to this village for interment.  Opportunity was given at the grave for those assembled to look for the last time upon the remains of one who had been a true wife and devoted mother.  The deceased leaves a husband and four small children who have the sympathy of a large circle of friends in their sad affliction and bereavement.  The age of the deceased was 29 years, 10 months, and 13 days.  G.S.T.

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 15, 1878

Marriages

MOON - THORNTON:  In Whitney's Point [Broome Co. NY], June 1st, by Rev. B.T. Davies, Mr. Edwin Moon of Newark Valley [Tioga Co. NY] to Miss Rosa Thornton of Whitney's Point.

BURDICK - MORSE:  In New Woodstock, Madison Co. [NY]\ May 15th, by Rev. E.P. Brigham, Mott R. Burdick to Allie I. Morse all of New Woodstock.

TREADWELL - MARTIN:  At the M.E. Parsonage, Port Crane [Broome Co. NY] June 2nd by Rev. E.L. Bennett, Mr. Wellington L. Treadwell and Miss Lizzie Martin both of Chenango, N.Y. [Broome Co.].

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Silver Wedding

June 7th, 1853, Rev. B.B. Carruth, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], was united in matrimony with Miss H. Elizabeth Leonard. The Rev. gentleman is now stationed at Gilbertsville [Otsego Co. NY] and the good people of that locality generously remembered their pastor on the occasion of the twenty-fifth return of the wedding anniversary.  The Otsego Journal gives the following particulars:

Preparations had been made at the parsonage for a few invited guests from the different localities in which they had lived, especially their earlier friends remembered, and at an early hour they began to assemble.  There were representatives from Mt. Upton, North Norwich, Willett, Cincinnatus, East Pharsalia and Butternuts and a silver proxy from the State of Minnesota.  About fifty sat down to the sumptuous repast provided.  Three only of the number were present at the nuptial ceremonies of twenty-five years ago.  These were Mrs. M.W. Edminister, of Guilford, a sister of Mrs. Carruth, and Mr. and Mrs. Berthier Herrick, of East Pharsalia, Mrs. H. a sister of Mrs. Carruth.  One brother, Mr. W.S. Carruth, of Cincinnatus, was present.

After the dinner was served, all repaired to the parlor, where in behalf of the friends assembled Rev. T.P. Halstead, of Mt. Upton, in a neat and appropriate speech presented the gifts of the friends, and all joined in singing: "Praise God from whom all blessings flow."  A fervent, feeling, prayer offered by Bro. H. and again they sang, "How sweet it will be in that beautiful land."

Just as the company was about to disperse, the friends from the immediate locality, having got wind of the affair began, uninvited, to throng the house so that soon after eight o'clock it was well filled, and kindly greetings and congratulations were again the order. Then the newcomers adjourned to the church where a brilliant scene greeted the company.  Flowers in profusion and glittering silverware, and rich cakes graced the table in the altar.  Exercises at the church consisted of a song by the choir, prayer by Rev. J.V.C. Nellis of the Presbyterian Church.  Music by the Butternuts Cornet Band.  Then Fred N. Winans, M.D., introduced Rev. T.P. Halstead to represent the kind people of Gilbertsville, which he did in his most felicitous manner, presenting the gifts of self-invited guests consisting of a silver table set of four pieces, cake basket, castor, butter dish, spoon holder, etc.  The pastor's only response was simply thanks, for the heart was too full for utterance, but he called out the Rev. Mr. Nellis to respond for him who made acknowledgement in a most happy and felicitous manner.  Ice cream and cake was passed by willing hands and "all went merry as a marriage bell."

The aggregate of gifts from invited and self-invited guests of the day and evening reached the sum of seventy-five dollars.  At a late hour the company separated, all wishing Mr. and Mrs. C. long life and happy days in the future, in which we know their many friends in this county will heartily join.

Deaths

CADY:  In Greene [Chenango Co. NY] June 10th, Mrs. Lois N. [Cady] wife of Ira Cady, aged 48 years.

SWART:  At East Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], of diphtheria, May 16th, 1878 Jessie May [Swart] aged 10 years, 2 months 5 days.  Also May 22d, A.J. [Swart] aged 11 years, 6 months and 19 days, children of Samuel and Julia Swart.