Obituaries (August 20)

Died--In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], May 9th, of diphtheria, Huldah, wife of Rufus B. Hakes, aged 33 years, 7 months and 8 days; May 12th, Alice L., aged 2 years, 6 months and 1 day; May 15th, Ruetta, aged 6 years, 4 months, and 9 days; May 20th, Dever, aged 10 years, 3 months and 29 days; May 26th, Halbert, aged 3 months and 22 days--all of diphtheria--children of Rufus B. Hakes, who is left alone to mourn this great loss.  [Chenango Union, June 21, 1865]

 

Died--In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], May 19th, of diphtheria, Ellen, daughter of Nelson and Martha Harvey, aged 17 years, 29 days.  [Chenango Union, June 21, 1865]

 

Died--In German [Chenango Co., NY], May 20th, of diphtheria, Mr. David Harvey, aged 36 years, 5 months and 21 days.  He leaves a wife and two children to mourn his loss.  [Chenango Union, June 21, 1865]

 

John Randolph Newton, a well known resident of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], died at his home in that town, Thursday afternoon, aged sixty-four years.  Mr. Newton was one of the victims of the railroad disaster at Jackson, Mich., October 13th, by which an excursion train en route to the World's Fair was wrecked and a number of passengers killed of wounded.  Although injured, Mr. Newton went on to Chicago, but upon his arrival there he grew worse, and immediately returned to his home, where he was stricken with pneumonia, which resulted in his death.  Deceased leaves surviving five children, two brothers and one sister, His wife died about four years ago.  Funeral services were conducted at the Free Methodist church in North Pharsalia, Sunday, by Rev. M.N. Downing, of Binghamton, and were largely attended.  Interment in Mt. Hope, Norwich [Chenango Co., NY. [Chenango Union, Nov. 9, 1893]

 

Willard Leroy Johnson, of Corning, Kansas, died of paralysis at Syrcamore Springs, Friday night, October 6, 1893, to which place he had gone in the hope of regaining his health, accompanied by his wife and brother; but death met him there.  Deceased was born in Bainbridge, N.Y., March 4, 1847, and was at the time of his death aged 46 years, 7 months and 2 days.  He moved to Atchison sixteen years ago last Christmas, and had since made Kansas his home.  He was an active member of the Presbyterian church and a good citizen.  He leaves a wife and two children to mourn his death, and many relatives and friends, of whom many reside in Bainbridge and Afton.  Ex-Sheriff John Robb, of Norwich, is a brother-in-law of the deceased.  At the request of the deceased, he was buried under the auspices of the Masonic fraternity, assisted by the Woodmen of which he was a member. The largest funeral procession ever seen in the city followed his remains to the cemetery.  [Chenango Union, Nov. 9, 1893]

 

Margaret Parsons Foote Williams, wife of Mr. William H. Williams, and mother of Mr. Robert D. Williams, died yesterday in the eightieth year of her age.  Mrs. Williams had been an invalid for five years, but bore her afflictions without murmur and with true Christian fortitude.  Mrs. Williams came from Puritan stock.  She was the daughter of the late John Foote, of Hamilton, Madison county.  Her grandfather was a Revolutionary soldier, a member of the State Senate of Massachusetts, and afterward a Senator in New York State, and also the first judge of Chenango county.  Her great uncle was commissary general on General Washington's staff.  Mrs. Williams had passed the most of her long life in this city [Albany, NY] where she was widely known and greatly beloved.  The funeral services will be held from her late home, No. 203 North Pearl street, to-morrow afternoon--Albany Evening Journal.  Deceased was a sister of Mrs. John Mitchel, and a cousin of Mrs. Elizabeth Turner of Norwich.  [Chenango Union, Nov. 9, 1893]

 

Welcome Johnson, a resident of this place over fifteen years ago, died at his home in Corning, Kas., the 23d day of November.  He was between 80 and 90 years of age, and a brother-in-law of Alonzo Easton, of North Afton.  [The Afton Enterprise, Dec. 29, 1894]

 

Mary A. Johnson, wife of Frank Johnson, Pearl street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], died at her home August 27th, at the age of 83.  She was born in Coventry June 6, 1849, the daughter of Uriah Benedict.  The funeral was held Monday, August 29th, at the Colwell funeral chapel, Rev. G.H. Orvis officiating.  Burial was in St. Peter's cemetery [Bainbridge, NY].  She is survived by one son, Charles Johnson, of this village, a daughter, Mrs. Alice Thompson, of Binghamton, and a number of grandchildren.  [Bainbridge News, Sept. 1, 1932]

 

Samuel Johnson, aged 78 years, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], died at the Binghamton City Hospital last Sunday June 30.  The funeral was held Wednesday of this week at two o'clock from the Presbyterian church, Rev. Webb officiating.  Surviving Mr. Johnson are two daughters, Mrs. Myrtle Spencer, of Harpursville and Mrs. Bertha Fuller of Guilford.  [Afton Enterprise, July 4, 1935]

 

Mrs. Hattie Darling Johnson (Mrs. William Johnson) passed away at her home in Syracuse, N.Y., on Sunday, September 27th, 1936, after a short illness.  The funeral which was largely attended, was held at the Presbyterian Church on Wednesday afternoon and was conducted by Rev. Leon Bouton of Oxford, assisted by Rev. C.E. Webb of Afton, pastor of the Nineveh Church.  Burial was made in the family plot in the Nineveh Cemetery.  Mrs. Johnson was a faithful member of this church for many years and even after moving to Syracuse, she retained her membership here and was a regular contributor to the church.  She had many friends here who sincerely mourn her loss.  [Afton Enterprise, Oct. 1936]

Miscellaneous, Drowning Tragedy at Bainbridge, 1924

Triple Tragedy, Bainbridge Mourns

Three Bainbridge Lads Lose Their Lives When Boat Overturns

Sidney Record, Oct. 18, 1924

 

Last Sunday afternoon, Oct. 12th, many were the anxious homes in Bainbridge village [Chenango Co., NY] regarding the absence from home of three lads, Frank and Edward Johnson, age 7 and 10 years, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Johnson and John Shafer, age 10 years, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Shafer, former residents of Sidney, all residing in Bainbridge.

 

In the morning the three lads had started out of the village and were last seen walking in the direction of the road leading from Bainbridge to Coventry.  Failing to return to their homes late in the afternoon, a search was at once instituted and the clue along the Coventry road was followed.  On one side of that road is located Roberts Lake, a body of water that in former years was a part of the Bainbridge water works system.  The searchers arriving at the lake at once discovered the fate that had overtaken the tree little fellows.  On the shore was their clothing, while on the lake floated an overturned flat bottom boat.  An immediate search was made for the three bodies.  State Troopers were dispatched from Sidney to render assistance and the lake was dragged.  The body of young John Shafer was first recovered and later on the two Johnson boys were taken out of the water.  Dr. Edward Danforth, health officer, viewed the bodies and rendered a verdict of accidental drowning.  No one saw the accident which probably occurred in the morning of last Sunday.

 

Wednesday afternoon, 15th inst., every heart in Bainbridge was depressed, the burial of the three little boys seemed to strike into every home as if it was their own family loss.  The flowers sent for the occasion, vast in number, beautiful in design, testified to the widespread sorrow and the services at the two homes were largely attended.  The two Johnson lads, Frank and Edward, were buried in the Episcopalian cemetery side by side; John Shafer, age 10 years, was buried in Greenlawn cemetery [Bainbridge, NY]

 

.Regarding the last named boy comes to light an unusual incident.  The Shafer family always carried a Prudential insurance policy on each member, until a few months ago all of the policies were dropped, except the policy carried on John, who lost his life last Sunday.  Mr. Howard Collar, Prudential agent, promptly paid the amount, $10.

 

Triple Funeral of Drowned Boys

Trio Who Met Death in Roberts Pond Buried in Bainbridge

Binghamton Press, Oct. 15, 1924

 

Bainbridge:  The funerals of Edward and Frank, aged 10 and 8, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Johnson and of John, the eight-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. George Shaver, who were drowned while swimming in Roberts' Pond Sunday afternoon, were held this afternoon from the Johnson home at 1:30 and from the Shaver home at 4 o'clock.  Burial of the Johnson boys was in St. Peter's Episcopal cemetery, the Rev. R.B. Whitman officiating, and of the Shaver boy at Greenlawn, the Rev. M.V. Williams officiating.

 

Besides their parents, Edward and Frank are survived by two younger sisters, Mary and Grace, and a baby brother, Donald, and grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Johnson and Mr. and Mrs. Fritz Shofkom.

 

John Shaver is survived by his parents, and six sisters, Dorothy, Gladys, Florence, Louella, Mildred, Margaret and baby brother, Kenneth, and grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. John Seamen of Sidney.  

Miscellaneous, North Colesville Country Store, 1950

Country Store :  North Colesville Boasts Real One

At the Crossroads in Peaceful Valley

Binghamton Press, July 23, 1950

 

Did you ever wish that you could get away from all the talk about war and atom bombs, the rush and noise of city traffic and the yakity-yak of a lot of people that you don't know talking all at once?  Do you long for days on your grandfather's farm when time seemed endless? 

 

At the foot of a long, steep hill, a few rods off Route 79 lies Peaceful Valley, known to the more prosaic as North Colesville.  The unpaved road crosses at one end of a little mill pond and at the edge of a deep and rocky glen is an old fashioned crossroads store kept by Henry (Hank) Paddleford and his sleek black and tan foxhound, Major.  The store, which has been in operation for more than 50 years, occupies the first floor of the North Colesville Grange Hall.  At first it was run by the Grangers and opened only on Grange night:  then a Grange Mercantile Co. was formed which took over for a number of years.  Mr. Paddleford has been there since 1923 and although the store lacks some attributes of early times, it still retains the flavor of an old country store. 

 

The cracker barrel has given way to packaged products, but men still gather around to talk.  Hank, 72, is an old-time hunter and trapper and during the deer season it is not unusual to find 15 or 20 hunters sitting around the store eating their lunch at noontime.  Until last year when a serious illness took its toll, Hank used to get some obliging neighbor to take over while he joined the hunt and he can still break his share of clay pigeons, when a gang come up and gets out his old trap. 

 

Hank has lived all his life within a stone's throw of the store.  He was born in the homey little house just across the spillway where he and Major keep bachelor's hall.  The sawmill which his father, Hanford Paddleford, built when he came back in 1865 from serving with the First New York Cavalry in the Civil War, is gone now and the log yard is a soft carpet of green grass with graceful trees framing the house at the back.  A white picket fence and roses blooming in front give the place such an idyllic setting that cars occasionally stop and their drivers ask if the place is for sale.

 

The first mill was build by John Wylie about 150 years ago.  He used to walk over from Coventry on the Ithaca Turnpike to cut and hew out logs for his house and mill.  The first mill dam was an earthen one which used to wash out in time of high water.  Wylie sold out to Watson Watrous, whose descendants still live nearby. 

 

A few rods farther on is the location on which Hank's grandparents settled.  The house is gone now but the barn still stands.  When Hanford was done with fighting and returned home, he married Sophronia Burrows, and built him a house and the sawmill all at about the same time.  The mill was built on solid rock and the dam made of huge stones which in later years have been reinforced with concrete.  "Hanf" is said to have been a real sawyer, able to saw out lumber to the exact measurements.  The story is told that when Charlie Holcomb built his house up on the other road, he took a load of lumber away to be sized.  The carpenter said, "Don't you know that if old Hanf sawed that it is right; It isn't two inches at one end and three at the other. No sir."  So Charlie carted it right home again. 

 

When Hank was a boy his first job helping at the mill was to pile shingles and to work the gate which conserved the flow of water.  In those days North Colesville was a bustling little village with a post office, cooper shops to make butter firkins, a cheese factory, blacksmith shop and Red Man's Hall.  Then the store bought sugar and crackers by the barrel, good "squirtin" tobacco was five cents a hunk, coffee beans had to be ground by hand and there were lamp wicks where the electric light bulbs are now.    When the store first had a telephone there were 15 or 20 parties on the line so there was no need for a local newspaper; people just listened in to find out what was happening.

 

The store carries a great variety of articles; everything that you expect to find in a country store.  On the wall are hunting pictures and an unusual bird's nest that someone brought in.  A few years ago Hank gave the old showcase that Watson Watrous used to the Museum in Cooperstown.  When the creamery was running, the hitching rail out front used to be full of horses--almost every farmer could think of something he needed for an excuse to stop and "set for a spell" and talk over the weather, crops and politics with his neighbors.

 

From one end of the store porch there is a view of the glen with its waterfalls and moss-covered stones.  All around the pond black and yellow swallowtail butterflies hover over buttercups and red clover blossoms.  As the shadows lengthen a half-dozen cars often coast down the hill and shortly fishing lines are dangling in the water as their owners sit and smoke and wait for a bullhead to bite.  For the time being the H-bomb is forgotten and Peaceful Valley is all they want.

 

 

They Also Serve--Hunting friends wait in the North Colesville store, coaxing Hank Paddleford, left, to shoot clay pigeons.  Left to right seated, Sam Watrous, Binghamton; Earl Holcomb, Greene; Nelson Watrous, North Colesville, and Undersheriff Ross Cooley, Binghamton.  In back is Vinson Quinn.

 



Marriages (August 19)

Saturday evening at 5:30 a quiet but pretty wedding took place in Christ Church [Guilford, Chenango Co., NY].  The contracting parties were Miss Eva Brown and Duane Eddy of Sidney [Delaware Co., NY].  The wedding march was played by Miss Laura Choate and the ceremony was performed by Rev. William Rogers.  the bride is a member of the Sidney orchestra and the groom is night yard master at the Sidney station.  Mrs. Eddy has been pianist at Mr. Cone's dancing school here this winter and a "snow ball" dance was given in her honor Saturday evening, at which her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Erwin Brown, Miss Grace Sprague and Miss Laura Choate, of Sidney, and Fred Godfrey of Norwich, also Cone's orchestra, of Sidney, were present.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 14, 1909]

 

The most enjoyable social event of the season was the marriage of J.B. Judson of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], and Miss Mamie Pearsall, which was solemnized at high noon, Wednesday, Jan. 6, at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. F.C. Pearsall.  The parlor was attractively decorated with wedding bells and evergreens, in honor of the happy event, and at the appointed hour the bridal party entered the room to the strains of the wedding march, played by Mrs. Paul Pierce of Schenectady.  The matron of honor was Mrs. Paul Allen of Norwich, cousin of the bride, and the ceremony was beautifully and impressively performed by Rev. Paul Allen of Norwich, in the presence of over twenty five relatives and friends from Coventryville, Oxford, Norwich, Cannonsville and Schenectady.  After congratulations and best wishes had been extended, a tempting wedding luncheon was served.  There was a beautiful collection of wedding gifts consisting of silverware, china, glassware, table linen, paintings, bedding, etc.  After a short social time had been spent, the bridal couple left amid the usual showers of rice, and took the train for Binghamton.  After a short honeymoon trip they will be at home at Unadilla, where the groom has a position in a jewelry store.  The bride is the only child of Mr. and Mrs. F.C. Pearsall, an active member of the Congregational church here, an accomplished musician, and has always made her home here, though she was been elsewhere at various times engaged in teaching, and has a large circle of friends who will miss her and who wish for her a long and happy married live.

On Wednesday morning, January 20, at the home of the bride's mother, Mrs. I. Adele Peck, at Middle Bridge, occurred the marriage of her daughter, Marjorie, to Frank E. Davis of Bainbridge.  The ceremony was performed under an arch of bells and greenery, by Rev. B.A. Gates, of Afton.  After the ceremony those present, consisting of the immediate family and a few friends of the contracting parties, enjoyed a delicious wedding breakfast.  Mr. and Mrs. Davis took the 10:46 train from Afton for Albany.  Both bride and groom are estimable young people and a large circle of friends will join in wishing them happiness and prosperity.  In a few weeks they will go to Idaho to make their home.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 21, 1909]

Staff Sgt. Curtis H. Pratt and his bride, the former Marie Connie Rizzi, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dominic Rizzi, Endicott, are pictured following recent wedding [published June 3, 1947]

 

Obituaries (August 19)

Andrew P. Merchant, proprietor of the Guilford Iron Works, Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], died at 8 o'clock, Tuesday afternoon, after a week's illness, aged nearly 78 years.  Mr. Merchant had been connected with the Guilford Iron Works for about half a century, and its proprietor since 1882.  He never held public office, yet exerted a quiet influence on public questions.  He was Senior Warden of Christ Episcopal Church.  His wife died many years ago, and he is survived by one son, Purley A. Merchant, and two sisters, Miss Jane Merchant and Mrs. May Burt, all of whom lived together with him in the old Merchant homestead.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 7, 1909]

 

Sunday afternoon, about 5:30, the neighbors of Charles Brabason found him dead in front of the stove in his home, about a mile and a half from this village [Guilford, Chenango Co., NY].  He had evidently been dead several days.  The body was frozen, the coal fire out and water on the stove was frozen solid.  the horse had gnawed himself loose and was clamoring for attention.  Dr. A.H. Evans was called and Coroner Wilcox, of Norwich, was summoned.  The cause of death was supposed to be heart disease.  The body was removed to the home of his sister, Mrs. Wade.  The funeral services will be held Wednesday and the body taken to Norwich for interment.  Besides Mrs. Wade he is survived by his sisters, Mrs. Kelley and Mrs. Odell, of Afton.  Mr. Brabason had lived alone since the death of his wife some years ago.  He was 73 years of age, and served as a sailor in the U.S. Navy during the Civil War.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 7, 1909]

 

Mrs. Ellen Jewell died at her late residence, Tuesday morning, Jan. 5.  She had been in poor health for several years and for the past few months her friends observed that she was gradually becoming more feeble.  Monday night, she retired feeling as well as she usually felt, but at 3 o'clock, the next morning, she suddenly and peacefully passed away.  Mrs. Jewell was a woman highly esteemed and dearly beloved by all who knew her.  In early life she became a follower of Jesus, uniting with the First Baptist church of Norwich.  Her faith in Christ was always strong and her life was in harmony with her profession, pure, upright, consistent.  After moving to this village, nearly 20 years ago, she identified herself with the Baptist church here and was a faithful and devoted worker, taking a lively interest in all the affairs of the church, until, on account of poor health, she was obliged to give up.  Mrs. Jewell was born Dec. 29, 1831, and celebrated her 74th birthday two weeks ago, friends and neighbors gathering at her home unexpectedly, bringing brightness and good cheer.  The funeral service was held Thursday afternoon at her late residence, her pastor, Rev. H.T. Hill, officiating.  The burial was at Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], where she spent a large part of her life.

The funeral services of Samuel A. Delavan, who died Sunday at 1 a.m. were held at his late residence Wednesday at 2 o'clock, the Rev William Rogers, rector of Christ's church, officiating.  The committal service at the grave was in charge of the Oxford Masonic chapter.  Mr. Delavan was the son of Nathan and Abigail Delavan and was born in this village, July 14, 1840.  He enlisted in the Civil war in August 1862, as a member of the 114th regiment Company A, and passed through the Red River campaign.  At one time he served in running recruits from Elmira to Chattanooga.  After his discharge from the hospital, he accepted a clerkship at New Orleans, and was also a member of the Board of Registration in Louisiana, under General Longstreet, during the reconstruction period.  Mr. Delavan gave many interesting reminiscences of his trips through the Red River country at that time.  Just before his departure for the South, he joined the Oxford Masonic chapter and was given three degrees in one night, for which a special dispensation was granted. In point of membership Mr. Delavan was the oldest Mason in this town. In 1878 he was married to Miss Maria Bunnell, who survives him.  Under Harrison's administration he received the appointment of postmaster here, and, with the exception of the Cleveland administration, held that position until July 1, 1908, when he was obliged to resign on account of ill health.  In the discharge of his duties as postmaster he was ever faithful and efficient.  He has suffered from diabetes for several years.  Saturday morning he was taken severely ill and the end came in less than 24 hours.  He has been a member of Christ's church here [Guilford, Chenango Co.., NY], many years and will be greatly missed in the community.  He was a devoted husband and father, a kind neighbor and friend.  Beside his wife, he is survived by his son, S.A. Delavan of Ithaca, a daughter, Mrs. Conrad Klee of Binghamton; a sister, Mrs. Lucy Heady of Binghamton and one brother, G.H. Delavan of this town.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 21, 1909]

On Sunday, January 10th, at the home of his son, D.C. Merithew, in Brooklyn, occurred the death of Lyman Merithew, aged 86 years.  Mr. Merithew had lived nearly all his life in this vicinity and was honored and respected by all.  Mr. and Mrs. Merithew were spending the winter with their son.  Besides his wife and son he leaves, to mourn his loss, one daughter, Mrs. Ellen Thompson, of Norwich, and several grandchildren.  The body was brought to Norwich and the funeral was held from the home of his daughter on Wednesday.  Burial was made in Mt. Hope cemetery [Norwich, Chenango Co., N Y].  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 21, 1909]

Funeral services for the late Otis A. Ives were held from the family home on North Main street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] Wednesday afternoon, Jan. 21, at 2 o'clock, the Rev. Charles G. Cady officiating.  The body was placed in the vault in Greenlawn cemetery to await burial at Yaleville in the spring.  Mr. Ives died on Monday morning after a week's illness, from leakage of the heart.  He is survived by his wife, one daughter, Mildred, a nephew, Hayward Hutchinson, of this place and a niece, Mrs. Harry White, of Philmont.  [Norwich Sun, Jan. 28, 1925]

Word has been received in town of the death of Mrs. Leslie Waldorf at her home in St. Petersburg, Fla., Jan. 9.  Her immediate survivors are her husband and two sons, Kenneth of St. Petersburg, and Leon of Scranton, Pa.  Mrs. Waldorf will be remembered by many as Grace Brigham, a former student of Bainbridge high school.  [Norwich Sun, Jan. 28, 1925]

Funeral services for the late Charles D. Thomas were held from the home on North Main street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, the Rev. Charles G. Cady officiating with interment in St. Peter's cemetery.  Mr. Thomas, who was 76 years of age, had lived in Bainbridge nearly all his life and for the past 20 years had  been a member of the clothing firm of J.E. Hirt and Company.  He is survived by his wife, one son, William D. Thomas and one daughter, Mrs. Joseph E. Hirt, also two grandchildren.  Mrs. Howard Cornell and Miss Virginia Hirt, all of Bainbridge. [Norwich Sun, Jan. 13, 1925]

Blog Post Listing, week of August 12-18, 2013

Listing of blog posts for the week of August 12-18, 2013

Marriages

Posted August 12, 2013

Butler Payne - Mrs. Ella Lindsley (1938)

John W. Eckler - Marie A. Dodge (1931)

James B Cass - Lottie Belle Yaple

Charles C. Swart - Candace L. Hamlin

Frederick A. Lewis - Jessie Frances Knott (1917)

Orange Fisher - Mrs. Phebe Wilson

Posted August 13, 2013
Josephine Martha Priest - George Euclair Whitman (1896)
Leona Snow - Rae L. Ellis (1943)
Mr. & Mrs. Vernon Eldred, 50th Anniversary (1956)

Posted August 14, 2013
Harvey B. Ferry - Matie J. Foster (1881)
Harley Keith - Laura Miller (1881)
Britton H. Norton - Mina Ferguson (1881)
Edwin Q. Dutton - Laura E. Bunt (1881)
Elbridge Boice - Anna Bennett (1881)
William Boyden - Emma J. Hendrickson (1881)
Evelyn June Robbins - Mickael Klinoff (1935)
Fernia S. Foster - Maurice W. Johnson (1937)
Grace Knox - Russell Evans (1939)
Margaret Watts - Clinton Taylor

Posted August 15, 2013
Nettie Redfield - John M. Sheperdson (1903)
Lulu Briggs - Robert Thomson (Afton)
Martha Carr - Fred Chamberlin (Afton)
Edward C. Hatch - Libbie Saunders
Mr. and Mrs William M. Merrill, 50th Anniversary (1952)

Posted August 16, 2013
Mabel A. Springstein - E. Beecher Ward (1904)
Leda Wright - Claud Miner (1904)
Homer F. Yale - Lillian Winans (1904)
Pearl Winans - George E. Williams (1904)

Posted August 17, 2013
Mrs. Sarah E. Barber - Eben S. Gilbert (1903)
Amie Lyon - Cory D. Thornton (1903)

Posted August 18, 2013
Morell Colwell - Edith Garlick (1913)
Griswold A. Thompson - May Van Alen (1913)
Laura Teed - Ralph Corbin (Bennettsville)
Mrs. Julia Dennison - William Grange (Binghamton)
Charles H. Davis - Marie H. Fagan

 

Obituaries

Posted August 12, 2013

Gaylord S. Graves (Bainbridge, 1903)

Lucy Jane Whiting Hovey (Guilford, Bainbridge, 1903)

Posted August 13, 2013
William Cooley (Binghamton, Yaleville, 1904
Floyd H. Mayne (Burlington, 1904)
Egbert M. Babcock (Utica, Bainbridge, 1904)
Peter Coon (Unadilla, 1904)
Elma A. Stanton Kilpatrick (Bainbridge, 1896)
Hiram Fisk (Unadilla, 1894)
Ray C. Pinney (Perch Pond, 1897)

Posted August 14, 2013
Adaline McKinnon (Masonville, 1881)
LaVerne Ferris (Bainbridge, 1907)
Bertha E. Hancock (Oneonta, 1907)
Arnold Barnes (Bainbridge, 1907)
Charles B. Moore (Oxford, 1896)
Harrison H. VanCott (Guilford, Bainbridge, 1896)

Posted August 15, 2013
Tracy H. Barrows (McDonough, 1903)
Thaddeus A. Birdsall (Otego, 1903)
Sally Ann Beardsley (Afton, 1903)
Mary Hastings Furey (Susquehanna, PA 1903)
Harvey O. Gray (Gilbertsville, 1903)
Dr. Edward North (Hamilton, 1903)
Hiram Pearsall (Bainbridge, 1903)

Posted August 16, 2013
Samuel S. Stafford (Oxford, 1904)
Mary Frances Smith Bliss (1904)
H.L. Tower (Afton, 1904)
Henry G. Toby (Bainbridge, 1904)
Robert Foote (Coventryville, 1904)
Ambrose Groves (Greene, 1904)

Posted August 17, 2013
Jerome Green (Bainbridge, 1903)
Prudence Maria Freiot Curtiss (Bainbridge, 1903)
Myra Stockwell (Guilford, 1903
James Olendorf (Afton, 1903)
James M. Humphrey (Anoka, Minn., 1903)
Harvey Hinman (Afton, 1903)

Posted August 18, 2013
Irving I. Odgen (Bainbridge, 1913)
Eveline E. Green (Bainbridge, 1913)
Harriet Hyde Carr (Afton, 1913)
Libbie Young Kilmer (Cobleskill, 1912)
Milton D. Whitaker (Deposit, 1934)


 

Miscellaneous

Posted August 12, 2013

• Danforth Brothers News Items (1930, 1937).

Posted August 13, 2013

• Bainbridge Firemen, Enjoy Their Annual Parade and Entertain Their Friends, Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Oct. 3, 1891.

Posted August 14, 2013

• Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce Honors Firemen, Nov. 29, 1975.

Poster August 15, 2013

• Mystery of the Disappearance of Harry Gardner & Beatrice DeForrest Solved, 1933.

Posted August 16, 2013

• News Items from 1904
• Mrs. Henry Wright taken to Preston county home
• Thomas Collins & Mannelli Michelli apply for citizenship.
• Old Methodist church spire removed (Bainbridge, NY).
• Blake sibling reunion.
• Ireland Family Reunion
• Foote Family Reunion

Posted August 17, 2013

• News Items from 1903
• E.M. Searles visits Bainbridge, NY.
• Charles Lyon escapes death.
• Black snake spooks horse.
• Issue of Presbyterian church cemetery shortcut.
• Stowell W. Green visits Bainbridge from Philadelphia.
• Horse accidently electrocuted in Oneonta
• Leland C. Yale & Co. offer sale on Dr. Howard's celebrated specific.
• James Slater Struck by Lightening.

Posted August 18, 2013

• Lieutenant Bunce excapes death in the trenches (World War I)

Marriages (August 18)

Morell Colwell, the popular Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] liveryman, and Miss Edith Garlick of Sanford [Broome Co., NY], were married at noon, New Year's Day, at the parsonage of the Oak Street Methodist Episcopal Church by the Rev. W.H. Crawford.  The bride was charmingly attired in a tailor-made traveling suit of blue, with picture hat to match.  The double ring ceremony was used.  Mr. and Mrs. Colwell left on the Lackawanna limited for a honeymoon trip that will include New York City and Mount Vernon.  Mrs. Colwell was until recently a teacher in the public schools of the latter place.  Their home will be at Bainbridge--Binghamton Republican.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 8, 1913]

A Press account contains the  notice of the engagement of a prominent New York man, Mr. Griswold A. Thompson, whose mother was Miss Caroline Griswold, who lived years ago in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] and resided with her parents on West Main street where Mrs. Harvey Ireland now lives.  The following account gives the prominence of the people.  "The engagement of Miss May Van Alen and Mr. Griswold A. Thompson was announced last week.  Miss Van Alen is one of the many descendants in this country and Europe of the first John Jacob Astor, founder of the Astor fortune.  Her mother was Miss Emily Astor, one of the five children of the late Mr. and Mrs. William Astor, and a sister of Mrs. Marshall Orme Wilson, Mrs. George Ogilvy Haig of Ondon, the late Col John Jacob Astor and the late Mrs. James Roosevelt .  Mrs. Van Alen who was married in 1876, died in 1881.  Miss Van Alen is a sister of Mr. J. Laurens Van Alen and Mrs. Robert J. Collier.  Mr. Vincent Astor is her cousin.  Mr. Thompson is a son of Mr. P. H. Thompson.  His mother, who was Miss Caroline Griswold, was regarded as one of the most beautiful woman in society in New York.  His father, who makes his home with him at No. 16 East 60th street, is in his eighty-seventh year."
 

A quiet home wedding occurred at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Teed, in Bennettsville [Chenango Co., NY], yesterday afternoon at two o'clock, when Miss Laura, their daughter, was united in marriage to Mr. Ralph Corbin, son of D. W. Corbin, of this place.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. John Carr, of Sidney Centre.  The bride's home was prettily trimmed for the occasion, only the relatives and a few friends witnessing the ceremony.  Miss Lena Carrington of this place was bridesmaid, and Julian Corbin, a cousin of the groom, acted as best man.  An elaborate dinner was served the wedding party, after which the bride and groom left on train No. 6  from Sidney for a week's visit in New York.  The bride is an accomplished young lady and has many friends, in Afton, who join in wishing her a bright and happy future.

 

On Wednesday, Jan. 22nd, occurred the marriage of Mr. Wm. Grange, formerly of Brooklyn, N.Y., to Mrs. Julia Dennison, of Maine, N.Y.[Broome Co.], at the home of her son, C.A .Davis, on the East Side.  Mrs. Denison is over 70 years old.  The marriage ceremony was performed by Rev. John Davis, of Hallstead, Pa., who is a grandson of the bride, the witnesses being C.A. Davis and Mrs. John Burton, her only son and daughter.  Mr. and Mrs. Grange left on train No. 7 the same day for Binghamton. 

 

Charles H. Davis, Normal '96, a young man well known in Oneonta, and Miss Marie H. Fagan an Afton young lady, were united in marriage at the bride's home last week Wednesday, at noon.  The house was prettily decorated with ferns, roses, golden rod and potted plants, and in the presence of the near relatives only the ceremony was performed by Rev. O. Flaville Humhreys of the Presbyterian church, Nineveh.  After a short honeymoon, Mr. and Mrs. Davis go to Brook Haven, where both have positions in the public school--Oneonta Star.

Obituaries (August 18)

Irving I. Odgen, who resided on Kirby street this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], died Friday forenoon last, just five days after the death of his sister, Mrs. Julia D. Wescott, also of this village.  Mr. Odgen had been ill for several months, his affliction being due to stomach trouble.  He had been a resident of Bainbridge for about fifteen years, coming to this place from Mt. Upton where he was a leading merchant.  He was born 68 years ago in the town of Guilford, being the son of Mr. and Mrs. David Odgen of that place.  His wife was Miss Almeda Whitcomb to whom he was married in Guilford.  After residing in that town they lived in Oxford later going to Mt. Upton and Bainbridge.  His wife and one brother, John Ogden, survive.  The funeral was held Sunday afternoon at the house and was largely attended.  Rev. G.E. VanWoert of Candor, formerly pastor of the M.E. Church of this village, officiated.  Interment was in Green Lawn cemetery [Bainbridge, NY].  [Notation:  died 1913]

 

In the little and picturesque hamlet called Union Valley [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], when the heavens had thrown a mantel of darkness over the land and night had invited the good people from the tasks and duties of the day to sweet rest, a kind and merciful Providence called Mrs. Evaline E. Green from the toils and struggles, the pain and suffering of earth, to that rest which remaineth for the people of God.  Death to this esteemed woman was an angel of mercy, a welcome visitant, for it ended the long and weary pilgrimage of one who had reached the three score years and ten line.  The deceased was born in Union Valley, December 30, 1835, and she died at the home of her respected brother, Melvin Herrick, March 27, 1913.  She was united in marriage to G. Frank Green August, 1851.  Her long life was lived in and about Union Valley.  The deceased was a member of the West Bainbridge Baptist Church.  Through her life she maintained her faith in the sublime and beautiful doctrines of the Christian Faith, and she gave testimony to the grace of our Lord and Saviour to sustain and keep His own children in all the trials and afflictions of earthly life.  The hope of a future life, with its transcendent glories, sustained her in the last hours of her life and in this hope she passed out to things celestial and eternal.  She ended life surrounded by her brother and friends who kindly and tenderly ministered to her the attention and sympathy she so much needed.  The services were in charge of Rev. Frank James and were held from the M.E. Church, Sunday, March 30, 1913.  Mrs. Green is survived by one daughter, Mrs. N.V. VanHorn, of Sidney, and three grandchildren, also one brother, M.E. Herrick, and one sister, Mrs. Elizada Ireland.  The interment was made in the West Bainbridge cemetery. 

 

Mrs. Harriet Hyde Carr died Wednesday, January 1, 1913, of valvular disease of the heart.  Mrs. Carr had been an invalid for nearly or more than two years.  Some three months since she suffered a slight shock, since which time she was unable to help herself but a little.  Mrs. Carr was a life-long resident of Afton, a daughter of Elijah Hyde.  She was a consistent member of the M.E. Church, quiet and unassuming with many warm friends.  She was 62 years of age, and is survived by three sons, Walter, of Nineveh Junction, Harry, of Afton, and Ralph, of Binghamton; four daughters, Mrs. John Davis and Mrs. George Grace, of Binghamton, Mrs. R. Clay Wilcox, of Bainbridge, and Mrs. Fred Chamberlain of Afton, with whom she was living, and one brother, W.E. Hyde.  Funeral was held Friday from her late home, Rev. D.L. Meeker officiating and burial in Glenwood cemetery.  [Afton, Chenango Co., NY]

 

Mrs. Libbie Young Kilmer, widow of the late Professor Andrew G. Kilmer, died at the home of her granddaughter, Mrs. C.F. Cooper at Cobleskill, Friday, December 27, 1912. at the age of 75 years.  She was born in Barnerville, December 30, 1837, and was the daughter of David D. Young and Polly Myers Young.  She was united in marriage to Andrew G. Kilmer in 1856.  She leaves a son, Archie Kilmer, and a granddaughter, Mrs. Curtis F. Cooper, both of Cobleskill.  For two years Mrs. Kilmer had been in feeble health due to a stroke of paralysis but was in as good health as usual at the time of her death and had been to make a call on a daughter, and that night she awakened her granddaughter and complained of a pain in her chest.  Restoratives were applied and Mrs. Kilmer felt easier and Mrs. Cooper returned to her own room, but upon returning to the room again, found Mrs. Kilmer had passed away.  Mr. Kilmer died suddenly about three years ago.  He will be remembered as principal in the Bainbridge Union School and Academy several years ago.

Deposit [Broome Co., NY]:  The funeral of Milton D. Whitaker, one of Deposit's best known citizens and one of the last survivors of the Civil War in this place, were held this afternoon, the Rev. George A. Briggs and the Rev. Reginald E. Edwards officiating.  Burial was in Pine Grove Cemetery.  Mr. Whitaker, near his 93rd year, died at his home on Court Street Friday, death resulting from a fall in which he suffered a fractured hip.  Mr. Whitaker's mother died when he was about 11 years old and his father when he was 17.  Milton attended Laurel Bank Seminary, worked for a time on a farm and afterwards in a meat market in the Village of Deposit.  When he was 21 years old he enlisted in the 109th New York Volunteer infantry, Co. E, at Binghamton.  This was on Aug. 5, 1862.  Here he camped on the Susquehanna River until Aug. 27, at which time he was sworn into the United States service and his regiment was ordered to Baltimore.  The trip was made in the ordinary "Pullman" box cars of those days.  At this time the rebel army was advancing into Maryland under command of General Lee.  Lee's invasion eventually resulted in the battle of Antietam, Sept. 16 and 17.  Here the 109th Regiment remained on patrol duty throughout the Winter of 1862-63.  After the battle of Gettysburg, July 1-3, 1963, the regiment was sent to various places along the Potomac, spending the Winter of 1863-64 at Alexandria, where it was their duty to examine and place new recruits.  On May 6, 1864, while Mr. Whitaker was in the front line under General Burnside in the battle of the Wilderness, he was wounded by a Minnie ball, which pierced his left hip, lodging in the joint.  He tried to rise, but found himself helpless, his left leg hanging completely limp, and the army surged back and forth twice over his body.  Finally he was carried back of the lines, thence through the woods, where an ambulance took him to a field hospital.  From this time on through weeks of suffering, with very little nourishment and care, he was moved from place to place, until on Oct. 18 he was allowed to come home.  Later he was honorably discharged.  the wound, however, crippled him for the remainer of his life, although he was active, engaging in farming, lumbering, rafting, etc.  Nov. 23, 1865 Mr. Whitaker married Emeline Atell, who died July 19, 1884.  One son, Junius E., was born to them.  He died March 19, 1898, of pneumonia.  Sept. 29, 1885, he was again united in marriage with Esther C. Monson, who survives him.  For 30 years Mr. Whitaker was a resident of Stilesville and vicinity, and for the past  27 years a resident of this village.  He was a school trustee in the Stilesville district for eight years.  He also organized a Sunday school there, acting as superintendent for 10 years.  Since coming to Deposit he has always been prominent in community life.  He was a trustee of the village and later president of the Board of Trustees, a member of the Board of Education of the Deposit High School for 13 years, and president of the board.  He joined the Baptist Church at the age of 24, and has always been a generous supporter and earnest worker in this church, holding the office of deacon since 1867.  On Aug. 1, 1913, Mr. Whitaker purchased the insurance business formerly conducted by Calvin Onderdonk and continued in this business until November, 1922.  He was a member of Eggleston Post, G.A.R., and commander of this organization for many years.  Only one other member of this post of approximately 50 men originally, survives--Silas G. Barnum.  whose Summer home is on Fourth Street, this village.  Surviving besides the widow mentioned are two daughters, Lura Mae Whitaker, wife of Earle Nelson Burrows, professor in Cornell University, Ithaca, and Eva Elouise Whitaker, wife of Howard J. Curtis, professor in the State School of Agriculture at Cobleskill; also three grandchildren, Earle Laurence Burrows, Ithaca, Esther Weed Curtis and George Howard Curtis Cobleskill.  [The Binghamton Sun, Mar. 20, 1934]

 

 

Miscellaneous, Lieut. Bunce Narrowly Escaped Death in Trenches

Lieutenant Bunce Narrowly Escaped Death in Trenches

(World War I)

 

Word has been received by relatives of Second Lieutenant Floyd W. Bunce of Nineveh Junction [Broome Co., NY] of his safety since the signing of the armistice.  Lieutenant Bunce is with the Sixth infantry, Co. I. of the Fifth Division.  This division was the first to cross into the German territory.  Lieutenant Bunce was one of the men of the first quota of honor men to leave Norwich for Cap Dix in September, 1917.  He sailed for overseas in May, 1918, with the seventy-eighth Division.  He received his commission as Second Lieutenant at an officers' training school in France, where he received his honorable discharge from the National Army to accept a commission in the Army of United States Regulars.  Lieutenant Bunce had a narrow escape from death in the Trenches when a piece of shrapnel pierced his mess kit.



Marriages (August 17)

Mrs. Sarah E. Barber of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] and Eben S. Gilbert of Hornellsville [Steuben Co., NY], were united in marriage Tuesday at Rochester, N.Y.  Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert are well known in Bainbridge, Mrs. Gilbert having resided here for the past ten years and Mr. Gilbert being a former resident.  After a brief trip to Wisconsin and other western points, Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert will return to Bainbridge where they will make their future home.  [Bainbridge Republican, Oct. 15, 1903]

A pretty autumn wedding occurred at the home of Marcus Lyon, Wednesday, when his daughter, Miss Amie was united in marriage to Cory D. Thornton.  The ceremony was performed by the Rev. Arthur Spaulding in the presence of about twenty of the immediate relatives and friends of the bride and groom.  Promptly at 11:30 o'clock to the strains of Lohengrin's wedding march, the bridal party entered the room.  The bride was becomingly attired in a gown of Champagne colored Zibeline with lace and carried a bouquet of white cream rose.  The house was charmingly decorated with potted ferns, smilax and roses.  Immediately after the ceremony an elaborate wedding breakfast was served by Caterer Toby and his corps of assistants, after which the bridal couple left for a trip that will include Boston, New York and New Haven.  Upon their return they will reside at the home of the bride.  [Bainbridge Republican, Oct. 15, 1903]

 

Miscellaneous, News Items from 1903

Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 29, 1903

Mr. E.M. Searles, who has been the guest of his brothers, Arvine T. E., and Abner Searles for some time returns next week to his western home, Herndon, Iowa.  The Republican has endeavored to convince Mr. Searles that he should remain in Bainbridge permanently, for he has many old friends and has made many new ones who would be pleased to have him a citizen for life.  Mr. Searles' large farming interests call him back.  

Bainbridge Republican, Feb. 12, 1903

Charles Lyon had a hairbreadth escape from death Friday afternoon as he was driving across the railroad track in Afton [Chenango co., NY].  The hind wheel of his wagon broke letting several bags of feed on to the track.  A coal train was coming down the grade at the time and Robert Craig, the flagman at the crossing, ran out with a flag.  Several bags of feed fell on Mr. Lyon and it was only by the hasty efforts of two men, who were on the wagon, that Mr. Lyon was pulled out from under the feed and his life saved.  The wagon was driven off the crossing, but the train, which did not stop, ploughed through the feed.

Bainbridge Republican, July 9, 1903

A big black snake wound itself around the leg of a horse belonging to Ernest Diamond as he was driving a few miles out of Waterloo Thursday.  The beast leaped to one side and the reins fell to the ground.  As the horse sprang forward Diamond leaped onto the horse's back and tried to bring him to a standstill, but without success.  At just that point Diamond was pitched into a brush heap wherein a swarm of bees had built a nest, and was badly stung.  The horse fell into a mud hole and was later pulled out by a team of horses.  

Bainbridge Republican, July 23, 1903

James Slater of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], was working in the cellar of Washington Ingersoll of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], yesterday morning about 8:30 o'clock when one corner of the house was struck by lightning the bolt running into the cellar knocking Slater unconscious.  He remained so until aroused by some one calling out that the house was on fire.  The damage was not serious to the house.  In the afternoon lightning struck in Coventry five times within a mile, touching houses and felling trees.

Bainbridge Republican, Aug. 20, 1903

Leland C. Yale & Co., the popular druggists, are making an offer that is just like finding money, for they are selling a regular 50 cent bottle of Dr. Howard's celebrated specific for the cure of constipation and dyspepsia at half price, 25 cents.  In addition to this large discount they agree to return the money to any purchaser whom the specific does not cure.  Anyone who suffers with headache, dyspepsia, dizziness, sour stomach, specks before the eyes, or any liver trouble, should take advantage of this opportunity, for Dr. Howard's specific will cure.  But if by chance it should not, Leland C. Yale & Co. will return your money.  

Bainbridge Republican, Oct. 22, 1903



Who has the responsibility of keeping the gates to St. Peter's churchyard closed?  The large gate by the Presbyterian church sheds is open all the time and there is a beaten path the entire length of the cemetery to the board fence at the rear where an accommodating hillock of dirt given men and boys an easy jump over, presumably, to reach Front street by a short cut.  This is sacrilege.  If the cemetery must be used for a runway let there be a toll man to take entrance fees.

 

Stowell W. Green of Philadephia, visited in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] this week with his cousin, Mrs. P.H. Loomis, and also with many who were his friends when he lived here forty years ago.  Among them is A.L. Palmer.  Mr. Green clerked in the store of Davis & Sherwood in this village, from 1865 to 1868.  For ten years he taught school in Coventry and neighboring districts after which he went to Philadelphia and secured a position with the Pennsylvania Railroad Co.  By faithful attendance to duty he has risen in the business world, receiving many meritorious promotions and now supervises an office at No. 769 Harrison St., Philadelphia, with a large force of employees.

John Brandt of Otego, lost a horse Sunday morning which he was driving on Market street, Oneonta.  Mr. Brandt was not conscious of anything wrong, when the horse suddenly began to shake violently and dropped to the ground dead.  He had stepped upon a piece of loose telephone wire which crossed and lay suspended from two electric wires connected with the O.C. and R.S. railway.  The telephone wire was out of use but had become detached from its moorings and fell upon live wires, hence the accidental killing of the horse.  Mr. Brandt has employed an attorney and intends to get satisfaction out of somebody for the loss of his horse.

Obituaries (August 17)

Jerome Green, a resident of this town, died suddenly Monday morning in the office of Dr. F.E. Hill.  Mr. Green, who resides a few miles south of this village on the East side of the river, drove into town Monday morning.  He visited several business places, among them was Payne & Davenport's barber shop where he was shaved.  While in the shop he met Dr. Hill and requested that the doctor examine a small sore which had recently appeared on his face.  The doctor took Mr. Green to his office in the Roberts Hose Co's building and on the way Mr. Green talked and was apparently in good health.  Mr. Green sat down in a chair and the doctor stepped to the window and raised the shade to get more light.  Turning toward Mr. Green he saw his head had dropped forward and he began to gasp.  He died within two minutes after entering the office and before the doctor could make an examination of his face.  At once medicines were administered but of no avail as death was instant.  Another physician was summoned who agreed with Dr. Hill that the cause of death was valvular trouble of the heart.  The coroner was notified but an inquest was deemed unnecessary.  The remains were taken to his home and the funeral took place yesterday.  Mr. Green was seventy-four years of age.  He was born and lived for many years in West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] and for the past year he has lived on the Anderson farm.  He was a farmer by occupation and highly respected man.  He was esteemed throughout this community where he had lived his lifetime.  He had been troubled with heart affliction for several years.  A wife survives him.  The burial was at the West Bainbridge cemetery.  [Bainbridge Republican, Oct. 22, 1903]

 

The death of Prudence Maria Freiot, widow of George W. Curtiss of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] occurred at the Freiot homestead Sunday evening, October 18, 1903.  Mrs. Curtiss was aged seventy-five years.  Her health had been impaired for a number of years and for the last year she had been quite helpless.  She had been cared for most assiduously by her brother, Charles J. Freiot, and family.  The father of Mrs. Curtiss was Joseph William Freiot, a retired medical practitioner, who came with his family from Troy, N.Y., in 1844, and took up his residence in Bainbridge.  He purchased two farms situated upon opposite sides of the road at the farther end of North Main street, which location was quite suburban at that time the village not having extended so far.  The homestead was on an old estate owned by J. Evans Owens and very desirable.  The extensiveness of Dr. Freiot's purchase can be imagined when it is understood that the upper half of North Main street with but two or three houses upon it was his property, his domain extending from the river far back to the west, embracing Pruyn Hill and Green Lawn cemetery, undeveloped, and the wooded hills beyond.  Dr. Freiot's farming was that of an amateur; possessing ample means, he cared not so much for profit as the happy privilege of experimenting in agriculture in the open life of the country.  Dr. Freiot, who was graduated from a medical school in New York city under the eminent Dr. Valentine Mott, and Maria Eddy, his wife, were descended from aristocratic lineage in Troy.  They were people esteemed in Bainbridge and lived to old age, the husband dying in 1875 aged seventy-five years and the wife several years later.  Mrs. Curtiss was the eldest of the eight children of Dr. and Mrs. Freiot and she is survived by one brother, Charles J. Freiot.  Her husband George W. Curtiss died in 1858.  Two brothers, John H. and Gilbert E. and one sister, Angelina E. died in Bainbridge sometime ago.  Mrs. Curtiss was the embodiment of family pride, independence of spirit, energy in business relations, and, enjoying a large patrimony, giving freely as her judgement dictated.  Her friendships were ardent and her love for children deep and passionate.  Her only child had died in her early married life.  The deceased was an attendant of St. Peter's church and her membership extended over a period of nearly sixty years.  The funeral services were held at the old home, Rev. Wilson E. Tanner, rector, officiating.  Selections of music were sung, especial favorites of Mrs. Curtiss, by Dr. R.D.L. Evans, Hugh C. Collisn, Mrs. Frank Fletcher and Mrs. Jesse Anderson.  The burial was in Green Lawn cemetery [Bainbridge, NY] which was once the soil of his kindred.  Handsome floral pieces were left upon the grave, tributes from old-time friends.  The attendant bearers were the Messrs. Joseph Juliand, C.M. Priest, Harry Garman and Dwight C. Scott.  Relatives from out of town present at the funeral were Mrs. Helen Freiot and daughter, Mrs. Frances B. Gilbert, of Albany,  [Bainbridge Republican, Oct. 22, 1903]

In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Tuesday, October 12th, 1903, occurred the death of a lady, Mrs. Myra Stockwell, whose life had covered nearly all the events of a century.  She was ninety-two years old.  She was born in Guilford and her father was Hiram Johnson, who undoubtedly located in that town when all was forest land.  Mrs. Stockwell had been married twice, her first husband being Uriah Ives of Guilford.  After his death the wife continued to reside in Guilford until her second marriage to Mr. Stockwell of Binghamton, who had extensive wagon works in that city.  Mr. Stockwell died about fifteen years ago.  He left a large property to his widow.  There being no children she came to West Bainbridge to reside with Mrs. Betsy Adams, for whom she had a great affection.  Mrs. Adams had lived with Mrs. Stockwell for several years and was married from her home to a Methodist minister.  Mrs. Stockwell was an aged lady, seventy-seven years old, when her husband died and she sought the care of Mrs. Adams, who was a widow then, to take the place of a daughter.  She remained with Mrs. Adams until about a year ago, when she required so much attention from infirmities it was beyond Mrs. Adams to give it.  She was taken to the home of a niece, Mrs. Foster Watkins, of Guilford, where she has been kindly watched over.  The funeral took place Thursday of last week at the residence of Mr. Watkins and burial was in Yaleville cemetery [Guilford, NY].  Mrs. Stockwell was one of the rare women of early times.  Sterling in worth, of strong mind, capable, yet possessing all the finer qualities of the modest, retiring woman.  She was affectionate, having a great interest in young people, and glad to make them happy.  Having  a large competence she enjoyed being generous.  Mrs. Stockwell was an interesting woman to meet and a few hours passed with her in her later years was a rich treat in delving into the past.  Her memory of events was a history that it would be worth the while of her friends to chronicle in book form.  [Bainbridge Republican, Oct. 22, 1903]

Afton:  James Olendorf died Monday, Oct. 12, after a two weeks' illness.  He leaves a wife and two sons, James H. of Athens, Pa., and Frank of Mexico.  Mr. Olendorf was one of our oldest residents well-known and highly respected.  The funeral occurred Wednesday, Oct. 14, from his late home on High street, Rev. B.B. Carruth officiating, assisted by Rev. E.L. Jeffrey.  Interment was in Glenwood cemetery [Afton, NY] where the closing services were conducted by the Masonic fraternity...[Bainbridge Republican, Oct. 22, 1903]

Word has been received in Bainbridge of the death of a former resident of the town, James M. Humphrey, who died October 6th, at his home at Anoka, Minn., aged 77 years.  He was an uncle of Jeweler Charles B. Humphrey of this village, and brother of the late Charles J. Humphrey of Bennettsville, and of the late Dr. William Humphrey of Osceola, Pa.  His wife, who survives him, was Olive Church, daughter of the late Ezra P. Church of Bennettsville.  Other relatives who survive Mr. Humphrey are another brother at Galeton, Pa., and sister, Mrs. H. Barnes of Wellsboro, Pa.  There are two children:  Mrs. F.A. Douglas of Auburn, Cal., and son, Frank Humphrey of Anoka, Minn.  Mr. Humphrey was one of the pioneers of Anoka.  He was born in Chenango county, October 7, 1826.  [Bainbridge Republican, Oct. 22, 1903]

Harvey Hinman, who has been ill with grip and thought to be improving, died Friday morning.  Pneumonia set in and in his weak state, from a complication of other troubles, he could not rally.  He leaves a wife, one son, W.E., and one daughter Mrs. Charles Guy, to mourn his loss.  Mr. Hinman was about 75 years of age a life long and respected resident of the town, and for many years a consistent member of St. Ann's Episcopal church, also a member of the "Ancient Order of United Workmen," members of the fraternity acting as bearers at the funeral, Sunday.  Services were conducted by Rev Edgar Tanner, interment in Glenwood cemetery [AFton, NY].  [Bainbridge Republican, Oct. 22, 1903] 

Obituaries (August 16)

Funeral services for the late Samuel S. Stafford who died at his home in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on Wednesday night of last week, were held in the Episcopal church in that place Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock.  Rev. Charles D. Broughton officiated.  Many members of the bar attended the services.  The news of Mr. Stafford's death has created a feeling of deep regret in Norwich as well as throughout the county, for Mr. Stafford had a wide acquaintance and a close personal friendship with a large number of persons.  He was 67 years of age and his death was due largely to blood poisoning resulting from a wound received at Port Hudson on June 11, 1868.  Mr. Stafford was one of the best known lawyers in Chenango county, and while making no pretentions of ability in the prosecution of criminal cases, he enjoyed a large general practice.  His services in the drawing of legal documents, the settling of estates and other similar matters, were widely and extensively sought after, his time being largely employed in the successful prosecution of these matters.  Mr. Stafford visited the county seat frequently in that capacity.  Mr. Stafford was first lieutenant in Company A, 114th Regiment, N.Y. Volunteers, which was recruited in Norwich, and had held the position of secretary of the Regiment association for a number of years.  He represented Chenango county in the State Assembly, together with George W. Sumner in the session of 1865.  Mr. Stafford is survived by his wife and two brothers, Richard Stafford, and Elmer Stafford, and one sister, Mrs. Lyman Van Tassell, all of Oxford--Norwich Sun.  [Bainbridge Republican, May 12, 1904]

 

Mary Frances Smith, wife of Albro Bliss, died at noon Tuesday, May 10, at her home on Pearl street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] from valvular affection of the heart with which she had been afflicted for the past six years.  Her condition took a critical turn two months ago and since she has been confined to the bed enduring great suffering.  She was forty years of age, born in Deposit and was one of nine children, of whom only six are living.  Her father is Isaac Smith of Deposit.  She was married at Unadilla in 1883 and has lived in Bainbridge for the past twenty years.  The deceased was a bright, cheerful woman, companionable, kind and charitable.  She with her husband joined the Methodist church soon after coming to Bainbridge and ever since had been staunch in her support.  She was energetic, ambitious, and a great worker.  She was a member of the Epworth League and the Ladies' Aid Society, and was most active in giving aid to the building of the new Methodist church.  The funeral was held this afternoon at 2 o'clock at the house.  Rev. H.B. Cook of Binghamton, assisted by Rev. J.S. Crompton, officiated.  Mr. Cook was the pastor of the local church when Mrs. Bliss Joined.  Music was furnished by Messrs. Daniel Banner and Eben Gilbert, Mrs. Frank Fletcher and Mrs. Jesse Anderson.  Burial was in Green Lawn cemetery [Bainbridge, NY].  The bearers were George Lyon, Frank Davis, John Toby, Uriah Toby, Erwin Gifford and E.D. Truman.  There were many beautiful flowers contributed in loving memory to the deceased.  [Bainbridge Republican, May 12, 1904]

 

H.L. Tower, a prominent business man of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], died Tuesday evening at his home.  The funeral will be held Friday at 12 a.m. from his residence.  Interment in Coventry, Rev. J.F. Shaw officiating assisted by the Masonic fraternity of which he was a member.  [Bainbridge Republican, May 12, 1904]

Henry G. Toby died Sunday evening from angina pectoris at his home on the East side in his eighty-second year.  He had been in feeble health for a number of years but death came suddenly as he was passing from one room to another.  A fall was heard by a member of the family and upon investigation his lifeless body was found.  His wife survives.  There are no children.  The funeral was held at the home Wednesday at 1 o'clock p.m. Rev. C.D. Reed officiating.  Burial was in Green Lawn cemetery [Bainbridge Chenango Co., NY].  [Bainbridge Republican, Aug. 4, 1904]

The funeral of Robert Foote, of Coventryville [Chenango Co., NY], was held Monday, Nov. 7, at the home of his granddaughter, Mrs. Judson Burton.  The services were conducted by Rev. A. McIntyre.  Interment in the cemetery there.  Mr. Foote was married to Miss Susan Royce, who died nearly forty years ago.  Two children, Cornelia Laman, of Pennsylvania and Chas. Foote, survive.  The deceased had been spending several months with his daughter in Pennsylvania, and only two or three weeks ago had come to his granddaughter's where his son Charles was also residing.  He had seemed quite active for a man of his age, but had a stroke of apoplexy, from the effects of which he quietly passed away in a few days.  Mr. Foote was born in Connecticut, coming to this state at the age of 14 years, and had since resided in the same section from which he was buried.  His father, Squire Foote, used to conduct the Cheshire postoffice and tavern in the house now occupied by Fred Brackett, which was on the line of the old stage route from this place, up Cheshire street, to Oxford, but which was abandoned nearly a half-century ago.  Mr. Foote was aged 87 years. Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 10, 1904]

Ambrose Groves, a farmer living about five miles east of Greene [Chenango Co., NY] was instantly killed Friday, October 28, by being thrown from a load of grain.  Groves was driving to the village and when near the Hiram Curtis farm saw a broken limb handing over the roadway.  He stopped his team under the limb and standing upon the load was engaged in cutting off the limb when the horses started up and Grover was thrown backward to the ground.  He struck on his head and shoulder breaking his neck.  The deceased is survived by a wife and two children.  [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 10, 1904]

Marriages (August 16)

The home of Mr. and Mrs. Eli Springstein on Academy street, was the scene of a quiet, but pretty wedding, July 30th, at 4 p.m., when their daughter, Mabel A., was united in marriage to E. Beecher Ward of Binghamton by Rev. J.S. Crompton, the beloved pastor of the M.E. Church.  Beneath a beautiful canopy of woodbine and ferns, intermingled with a choice collection of exquisite blossoms, the bride charmingly gowned in white silk mull and rare lace, carrying a bouquet of white sweet peas, and the groom in the usual conventional black, with the perfectly arranged ring service, plighted their troth, to love and to cherish, amid the hushed silence of the few immediate friends present, as owing to recent bereavement in both families, only a small number were invited.  Those from out of town were E.C. Ward, father of the groom; Claude Springstein, brother of the bride; and Misses Ruth Wilcox and Bernice Abbey all of Binghamton.  Among the useful gifts received was a gift to the bride of fifty dollars from her father, and a gold watch and chain, of fine design from the father of the groom.  At five o'clock a bountiful supper was served, after which Mr. and Mrs. Ward, amid a shower of rice, took the train for their future home.  Both bride and groom were formerly popular students of the Binghamton High School, and a host of young people are delighted at their decision of making the Parlor City their permanent home, and welcome them right royally.

Gather the mid-summer splendor,

In all its beauty rare,

Shedding its redolent sweetness

O'er this wedded couple so fair;

May the silver chord ne'er sever,

While their hearts are bound in one,

Nor the golden bond be broken

Until their life-work is one.

[Bainbridge Republican, Aug. 4, 1904]

 

The birthday of Mrs. Reuben Wright was pleasantly celebrated last Wednesday evening by the marriage of her daughter, Leda to Claud Miner, the ceremony being performed by Rev. A. McIntyre in the presence of a few relatives and friends.  A tempting wedding supper was served after which the guests departed with best wishes for the bridal couple.  Among the gifts was a rubber tired buggy from the bride's family.  [Bainbridge Republican, Aug. 4, 1904]



On Sunday afternoon, November 6, 1904, at the home of the bride's parents Mr. and Mrs. George Slater of Bennettsville [Chenango Co., NY], Lizzie E. Slater was united in marriage to Charles M. Dewitt of Binghamton, Rev. A.E. Holmes of Masonville officiating.  Friends were present from Binghamton, Schenectady, Masonville and Bennettsville.  Mr. and Mrs. Dewitt will make their home in Binghamton [Broome Co., nY].  [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 10, 1904]

 

In the Cairo Herald of Greene County, N.Y., there appears an extended notice of the marriage of Rev. Homer F. Yale of Westfield, N.Y., son of the Rev. Luman Yale of Guilford, with  Miss Lillian Winans of East Durham.  The marriage ceremony performed by the Rev. A.C. Youmans, of Albany, took place in the Christian church at Freehold, two miles distant from the bride's home, on the morning of October 26th.  The church was tastefully trimmed for the occasion.  The bride was beautifully attired in a gown of white silk trimmed with lace dotted with white silk medallions, and carried a bouquet of white carnations.  Mr. Yale was formerly pastor of the East Durham Baptist church and at the time Mr. Youmans was pastor of the Christian church at Freehold.  The two clergymen were very intimately associated when serving churches in that section.  After the wedding knot had been tied the bridal party was escorted to the bride's home, William Winans.  Then a sister, Miss Pearl Winans, who had acted as bridesmaid to Mrs. Yale, and the groomsman, George E. Williams, were married by the same clergyman.  Mr. Youmans, and amid eighty or more guests.  The bride was gowned similarly to Mrs. Yale.  The home had been made into a bower of flowers.  After a sumptuous repast had been served the two newly married couples left for the Catskills where they separated, Mr. and Mrs. Yale coming to spend a week in Guilford and Bainbridge.  Many met them while here last week and congratulated Mr. Yale that he had secured so charming a bride.  They have gone to their home at Westfield where Mr. Yale is pastor of the Baptist church.  He is a young man of talent and ability and is very successful in the ministry.  In connection with the above event we make mention of the rather curious circumstance of the two brides acting as bridesmaids in June of this year in the marriage of their father to his second wife.  Mr. Yale and Mr. Williams, the prospective sons-in-law served as groomsmen.  [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 10, 1904]

Miscellaneous, News Items from 1904

Poormaster Ireland took Mrs. Henry Wright, whose husband died suddenly a few weeks ago, to the county house at Preston [Chenango Co., NY] last Friday.  Mrs. Wright is quite ill from cancerous affection and required so much care that she decided herself that it would be best for her to go.  Mrs. Wright is a worthy woman, industrious and hard working until illness overtook her.  There have been persistent rumors since Mr. Wright's death that she was never married to him but a Republican employee has seen the certificate given to the clergyman.  Here follows the announcement as given in the Bainbridge Republican sixteen years ago:  On Monday evening, January 16th, 1888, at the house of Mrs. A. Converse by Rev. .N. Grummon, William H. Wright and Mrs. Carrie A. Couse, both of Bainbridge, N.Y., were united in marriage.  [Bainbridge Republicn, Aug. 4, 1904]

 

Two Bainbridge citizens have made application for naturalization papers that they may secure the exalted rights of American citizens.  They are Thomas Collins of the American Separator Co., and a laborer name Mannelli Michelli.  [Bainbridge Republican, Aug. 4, 1904]

 

W.R. Proutey has removed the spire from the old Methodist meeting house and thus has been destroyed a prominent landmark that has stood for more than 70 years.  William Cooper of Cannonsville, owner of the property, will remodel the building at once and will probably reside in a protion thereof.  [Bainbridge Republican, Aug. 4, 1904]

Mrs. Matilda Minor was recently visited by her brother, Alanson Blake of Eau Claire, Wis., aged 83 years, and her sisters, Mrs. George D. Horton and Miss Sally Blake of Bainbridge, and Mrs. Sybil Hathaway of Gilbertsville, and a photograph of the group was taken.  Mrs. Minor is 89 years old, and the combined age of the five is 406 years, and all are very well and active for their age.  We doubt if any other family near here can equal that record.  The family of brothers and sisters was brought up in this place and all are highly respected people.  One brother, Benjamin, died several years ago.  [Bainbridge Republican,  Sept. 1, 1904]

Ireland Family Reunion:  The second annual meeting of the Ireland Family Reunion Association was held yesterday, August 31st, at the home of William H. Ireland, near Union Valley [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].  This was a reunion of the lineal descendants of the three Ireland brothers, James, Jacob and Thomas, who settled in the town of Bainbridge a century ago.  The first meeting was held one year ago at which upwards of one hundred and twenty were present and the society was organized.  This year there were present one hundred and forty-four of the descendants, indicating great interest and pride in this family society.  The home of William H. Ireland is a most pleasant and hospitable place.  Here the guests gathered early yesterday.  A spirit of kinship feeling prevailed assuring success at the outset.  Each one present exhibited the most congenial side of nature, thus providing an occasion of unusual delight to all.  A magnificent dinner, comprising everything in the line of substantials and delicacies, was ready at noon.  The tables were set on the lawn under a canopied roof.  So thoroughly was this meal enjoyed within the circle of family ties that the guests lingered at the tables until three o'clock in the afternoon.  A business meeting followed at which the following officers were elected:  William H. Ireland, president; John A. Ireland, vice-president; Fremont Bentley, Secretary; James W. Ireland, treasurer.  The remainder of the day until five o'clock was consumed in merry making and sports.  The guests divided into parties.  Some took to games, some to music and others to story telling and talking over old times.  The Ireland hearth-stone gleamed with joy and greetings and no event of such magnitude, containing so [..torn..] success among family representatives, could have been conceived possible to have become so perfect in all its details.  Many regrets were expressed that Thomas H. Ireland of Moorfield, Neb., who, on a visit to Bainbridge last summer, was very much interested in founding the Ireland reunion society, was not able to be present.  He had started to come but being in the government employ, was ordered to fill some special mission elsewhere.  This being the year for Presidential election, politics came up for discussion and a vote being taken, out of forty-seven voters, 40 were Republicans, 5 Democrats and 2 Neutral....The next reunion of 1905 will be held at the home of John A. Ireland, West Bainbridge, the third Wednesday in August.  [Bainbridge Republican, Sept. 1, 1904]

Foote Family Reunion:  The ninth annual reunion of the Foote family as held at the home of F.L. Searles, Searles Hill, Wednesday, August 24th.  Owing to sickness there were not as many guests as usual, but those present thoroughly enjoyed the day.  The tables were set on the lawn.  It was voted to hold the next reunion at Albert Foote's, Guilford, Wednesday, August 19, 1905.  The following officers were elected for the ensuing year; F. Smith, Guilford, president; F.L. Searles, Bainbridge, Vice-president; Mrs. Thomas E. Lord, Oneonta, secretary and treasurer; Mr. and Mrs. F. Smith, Guilford, and Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Foote, Wells Bridge, table committee.  [Bainbridge Republican, Sept. 1, 1904]

 

 

Miscellaneous, Disappearance Mystery Solved, 1933

 

Disappearance of Harry Gardner & Beatrice DeForrest

Norwich Sun, July 7, 1919

 

Leaving his wife and four small children, the oldest of whom is eight years of age, Harry Gardner, aged 31, and a resident of Rockdale [Chenango Co., NY], is said to have disappeared on the evening of June 27th with Beatrice DeForrest, fifteen-year-old daughter of his next door neighbor.  Local, county, and state police officials are actively engaged in the search for Gardner and Beatrice DeForrest.  He is described as being five feet two inches tall, and weighing about 160 pounds.  Detailed description of the missing man was not available at the press hour today.

 

On the night of Friday, June 27, just one week before the Fourth, Gardner left his home at 10:30 o'clock and Miss DeForrest disappeared a half hour later.  The last person known by the police to have seen Miss [DeForrest] was Ed Smith, an admirer, said to be about 45 years of age, who called on her that evening and brought her lilies, a box of candy, and ice cream.  Smith is said to have left the house at half past ten.  According to the story alleged to have been told by him, the girl went around as he supposed to go into her home by the back door, but evidently she had her belongings packed and hidden in the rear of the house ready for the getaway.

 

Miss DeForrest, according to Rockdale residents with whom she was intimately acquainted, is very attractive despite her youthfulness.  Gardner, his wife declares, had a gun when he ran away with the girl and said he would shoot the first policeman who dared to interfere with his plans.  As yet he has not made good his threat.  His whereabouts are a mystery although the police are said to have clues which will lead in his arrest and apprehension on the charge of abduction, within the next few days.  His act in putting his horses and other valuable possessions in the barn of Miss DeForrest's parents before they left, has lead many to believe the man in insane for the act is that of a man temporarily unbalanced.

 

Finding of Two Skeletons Reveals Murder and Suicide

Discovery Made Near Mt. Upton by Hunters

Sidney Record, Jan. 5, 1933

 

An unsolved mystery of 13 years, the disappearance of Beatrice DeForest, 15 years old, and Harry Gardner, 27, who disappeared from their homes in the town of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], June 27, 1919, was cleared Tuesday, 3rd, by the finding of two skeletons in a swamp, known as Michigan Woods, in the town of Guilford near Mt. Upton.  The discovery of the skeletons, was made by George Miner and Leo Mullen, both of Johnson City, who were rabbit hunting.  Miner is a baseball pitcher on the Newark, N.J. international League team. 

 

Gardner, a married man with five children, and the DeForest girl, lived on adjoining farms.  When they disappeared it was thought they had eloped.  It was late Tuesday afternoon when Miner and Mullen first viewed the gruesome sight.  They immediately called to wood cutters nearby, Clinton Camp and Burt DeGroat.  Troop "C" barracks, Sidney, was notified.  The spot being inaccessible, it was decided to delay investigation until Wednesday morning. 

 

Corporal Leroy Zieman and Trooper Ernest Maynard were assigned to the case and accompanied by Dr. E.W. Wilcox, coroner, went to the place.  Several neighboring farmers had collected at the scene and told of the disappearance of Gardner and the DeForest girl.  Search revealed a vanity case bearing the name of the girl's mother, three rings, one bearing the initials "B. M. D." were also found.  This convinced the officers that one of the skeletons was that of Beatrice Deforest.  A bottle which contained a small amount of liquid, stated as carbolic acid by Dr. Getman, was also found.  Another bottle marked "paregoric," which was empty, was picked up.  Two other bottles, nearly full, were taken by the coroner to be analyzed.  An axe was also found, the helve of which was entirely rotted.

 

Reconstructing the crime, authorities believe Gardner enticed the girl to the lonely spot, forced her to swallow some of the contents of the bottle and struck her with the axe and then took carbolic acid to kill himself.  The skull, which Coroner Wilcox said was the girl's was crushed near the left eye, bearing out this theory.

 

The widow of Harry Gardner was found living in Franklin [Delaware Co., NY].  Shown several personal effects of her husband, cuff links, shoes and ring, the latter she told authorities was her own, she quickly identified the items.  When questioned, Mrs. Gardner said her husband left their home on the night of June 27, 1919, saying he was going to a dance, and that she had never seen him again.  Change amounting to $1.40, dug up near the skeleton, was turned over to the widow. 

 

Mrs. Alonzo Ingalls, who lives near Unadilla, Gardner's sister, was also interviewed by Dr. Wilcox.  The parents of the DeForest girl have died since her disappearance.  Mrs. M.E. Pomeroy of Binghamton, a sister of Miss DeForest's came to Sidney, Thursday morning.  The remains of the girl will be interred in the Rogers Hollow cemetery.  The remains of Gardner were interred in Prospect Hill cemetery, Sidney. 

 

Residents of the neighborhood where the remains were found, are at a loss to understand how they could have lain there for over 13 years without being discovered.  While the spot is isolated and inaccessible, still the residents state it is near a berry patch, where berry pickers go each year.  Hundreds of cords of wood have been cut during the years that the bodies have lain there in the immediate vicinity, and game hunters of all kinds have tramped the woods year in and out.



Marriages (August 15)

Miss Nettie A. Redfield and Mr. Joseph M. Shepherdson of Lestershire [Broome Co., NY] were married Wednesday evening, September 16, at the home of the bride's father, Lyman C. Redfield, Lestershire, Rev. Thomas Owen officiating.  About seventy guests were present.  There were dainty decorations, the ceremony being performed under a garland of evergreens and roses.  Palms and flowers were conspicuous throughout the house.  The bride was attended by her sister, Miss Gladys Redfield, and the groomsman was Alvah Shepherdson.  The ushers were Miss Bessie Hawk of Lestershire and Mrs. Frank Sherwood of Binghamton.  Miss Grace Sherwood played the wedding march.  Little Master Harold Redfield, nephew of the bride, was flower boy, and little Miss Margery Wildey was ring bearer.  The bride was attired in a handsome gown of cream white silk, trimmed with silk insertion, and carried bridal roses.  The bridesmaid wore Nile green silk, trimmed with white chiffon and ribbons.  Miss Hawk wore a gown of white Persian lawn, trimmed in lace and insertion.  Following the ceremony an informal reception was held and a luncheon was served.  Mr. and Mrs. Shepherdson left on the 10:30 night train for New York city and other points.  They were the recipients of numerous and beautiful gifts.  From out of the city there were present relatives and friends from Bainbridge, Sidney, Masonville and Coventry.  Mr. Shepherdson was formerly a resident of Port Crane, but is now clerk in the Erie depot at Lestershire.  His bride formerly resided at Bainbridge.  They will reside at Lestershire Heights.--Binghamton Herald.  [Bainbridge Republican,, Sept. 24, 1903]

At high noon, today, (Wednesday) the marriage of Miss Lulu Briggs, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. H. Briggs, to Mr. Robert Thomson, was solemnized at the home of the bride's parents on Main street [Afton, Chenango Co., NY].  Rev. Henry Hill, pastor of the Baptist church, performed the ceremonies, the couple standing  beneath an arch of evergreens.  Immediate friends of the bride and groom were present and after the ceremonial rites, a grand feast was enjoyed.  The happy young couple left on train no. 7 this afternoon, for the Parlor City and other interesting points.  The wish of happiness and prosperity goes with them.

This evening will occur the marriage of Miss Martha Carr, daughter of Mrs. Hattie Carr, to Mr. Fred Chamberlin, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. R.A. Chamberlin.  The nuptial ceremonies will be performed by Rev. J.A. Davis, of the Hallstead Baptist church, at the home the bride's mother on Academy street [Afton, Chenango Co., NY].  The young couple are held in the highest esteem by the citizens of Afton, and The Enterprise joins with their large circle of relatives and friends in wishing them a a long and happy life of usefulness and prosperity.  The happy couple depart on train No. 3 and will spend their honeymoon in Binghamton, Hallstead and Montrose.

Edward C. Hatch of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] and Miss Libbie Saunders of this place were united in marriage Wednesday at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Decker.  The ceremony, which was performed at high noon by Rev. F.E. Walton, was witnessed by the immediate relatives of the bride and groom.  The bride was the recipient of many and beautiful presents, which showed the high esteem in which she was held by her friends.  After a short bridal tour Mr. and Mrs. hatch will reside on a farm near Bennettsville [Chenango Co., NY].

Mr. and Mrs. William M. Merrill celebrated their golden wedding anniversary with an open house at their home, 44 Main St., Afton, NY [Chenango Co.].  Friends and relatives of the couple visited them on the occasion in the afternoon and evening on Tuesday.  [published Jan. 19, 1952]

Mr. & Mrs. William M. Merrill