Obituaries (August 5)

George Gould, aged 82, of Hancock (Delaware Co., NY), died suddenly at his home, Tuesday evening, Jan. 16.  Mr. Gould had been shoveling snow in front of his house and evidently not feeling well, went inside, lay down and died within a few minutes.  George Gould was born at Long Eddy (Sullivan Co., NY) and the greater part of his life was spent there.  During his working years he was engaged in the lumber business.  On his retirement he moved to Hancock.  He was  a man who was well liked and respected by people in all walks of life.  He is survived by one daughter, Mrs. George Hoffman, of Hancock, and a brother, Charles H. Gould, of Walton.  The funeral was held at the Henderson Funeral parlors at Hancock, Friday afternoon,  Burial will be later at Long Eddy.

Sydney J. Hurley, of Susquehanna [PA], a member of the school board for 38 years, and secretary of that body for most of that time, died Saturday in the Barnes Hospital.  Born in Killalue, County Clare, Ireland, on Aug. 9, 1862, Mr. Hurley came to this country in 1885.  He resided in New York City two years and spent the rest of his life is Susquehanna.  He was employed by the Erie Railroad for 20 years, after which he opened his own grocery business which he conducted until his retirement 10 years ago.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 25, 1945]

Wednesday, Jan. 17, 1945, occurred the death of Felix Boyko, at his home on the Guilford-Oxford road. Death brought release from months of ill health.  Felix Boyko was born Jan. 11, 1888, 57 years ago in Eukraine, Russia, and always remained a Russian citizen.  He has lived in this community for the past 23 years, and has operated a dairy farm as long as his health permitted, his wife always working by his side.  Final rites were Saturday, Jan. 20, Colwell Bros. in charge. The body will be placed in the vault, and laid to rest in Greenlawn Cemetery, Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], in the spring.  Surviving are the widow, Ida Boyko, two daughters, Pfc. Rachel Boyko, U.S. Army, stationed in the State of Washington, and Mrs. Lewis Shampang, and one grandson, of Guilford.  Mr. Boyko was a kindly neighbor and respected by all he knew here.  Sincere sympathy is extended to the family in their bereavement.  A wire was received Friday saying that the daughter, Rachel, would arrive by plane from Washington Saturday morning. This was made possible by prompt contacts made by the Red Cross. She will be a great comfort to her mother at this time.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 25, 1945]

Mrs. May Whittemore, a life long resident of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] until she was moved to the W.R.C. Home six months ago, has been greatly missed.  As long as her health permitted she was most active in all branches of the work in the Methodist Church, took a deep interest in the woman's Club and the Home Bureau.  Her last visit to Guilford was just before Christmas, when she attended the Woman's Club Christmas party and she enjoyed the day so much.  She was a kindly neighbor and her entire life centered in her home and community.  The sister, Roby McClean of the W.R.C. Home, Oxford, and cousins in Gilbertsville, survive.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 25, 1945]

North Afton [Chenango Co., NY]:  On Thursday afternoon, Jan. 18, 1945, occurred the death of Mrs. Carrie Fox, a dearly beloved mother, neighbor and friend.  Her kind and friendly disposition won the affection and admiration of all who knew her.  She was much interested in church and community affairs.  Although in failing health for the past two months her death came as a great shock to the community.  She is survived by a daughter, Mrs. H.V. Managan, of Newton Square, Pa.; two sons, Reginald R. Fox, of Binghamton and Harvey C. Fox, R.N., of New York City.  Funeral was held at Tarbors Funeral Home Sunday afternoon.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 25, 1945]

GREENE:  In Cortland, on the 23d ult, of typhoid fever F.E. Greene, of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], aged 28 years.  A young man just in his prime, thus stricken down.  He was thoroughly respected by his large circle of friends, who will deplore his untimely death.  He was a member of the Baptist Church, with a firm trust in his Lord.  [Bainbridge Republican, Dec. 20, 1873]

FREER:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] on the 26th of November, 1873, Cynthia Freer, mother of Wm. Freer, of this town, aged 85 years, 6 months and 29 days.  Cynthia Freer, wife of Casper Freer Jr., was born on the Unadilla River, in the town of Butternuts [Otsego Co., NY], near what is now known as the White Store.  She was married at the age of 18, and moved to the town of Unadilla, about a mile below the present village.  At the time of her birth, the country was very thinly settled, there being no grist mill within fifty miles of her residence--that at Chenango Forks.  In 1837 she moved to this town, where she resided with her son until the time of her death.  [Bainbridge Republican, Dec. 20, 1873]

Allen L. Hodge, lifelong resident of this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], passed away Friday at the Bainbridge Hospital, death resulting from a shock.  Mr. Hodge was born June 30, 1863, at East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], the son of Homer and Fanny Brocket Hodge, and when only a small child his parents moved to this village, where he had since resided.  Fro more than 30 years he worked as a machinist at the American Separator Company's plant in this village, retiring in May, 1933, due to poor health.  He was a member of the Methodist church and also of Susquehanna lodge, 167, F. and A.M.  Surviving are his wife and a son, Homer Hodge of this village, and two grandchildren, Mrs. Llewellyn Rogers of Sidney, and Sterling Hodge, also of this village.  The funeral was held Sunday afternoon in the chapel of Colwell Brothers, West Main street, with Rev. Jesse Dickerson, pastor of the Methodist church, officiating.  Interment was made in Greenlawn cemetery.  [Norwich Sun, Apr. 6, 1936]

Entered into rest at 8 o'clock in the morning, September 3, 1894, at the residence of her son, Alvin R. Converse, Mrs. Caroline Converse, widow of Edward Converse.  Mrs. Converse, formerly Miss Caroline Richardson, was born in January 1822 in the town of Jericho, Chittenden county, Vermont.  She came to Gilbertsville with her sister, Mrs. Truair, and her brother, John Richardson, J.G.R. Truair and Mrs. Truair being the first preceptor and preceptress of the Gilbertsville Academy.  Mr. Richardson was also a teacher in that well known institution.  While a pupil in the Academy she became acquainted with and married the late Edward Converse, a resident of the town of Butternuts.  There are four children surviving her, Mrs. Julius Halbert, of Butternuts, Mrs. Hobart Benedict, of Elmira, Alvin R. Converse, a resident of the homestead, and Frederick Sumner Converse, at Mt. Upton.  After a long and painful illness patiently borne, Mrs. Converse passed away ministered unto by the devoted hands of her loving children, and is mourned by a large circle of friends and neighbors, who appreciated the gentle, lovable qualities of her nature, and her remarkable conscientiousness and the sincerity of her Christian life.  [Otsego Journal, Sept. 5, 1894]

Soldier News continued - 1945

Killed, Missing in Action, Wounded

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 25, 1945

 

Recent War Department messages report one Chenango County man killed, four wounded and one missing in action, all in the European theatre.

 

Reported killed is Pvt. Adam E. Bryden, husband of Mrs. Leta M. Bryden, Bainbridge.

 

Those who were wounded in France and Germany are:

Pfc. James R. Johnson, son of Mrs. Edith Johnson, Norwich.

 

Pvt. John P. Conroy son of Mr. and Mrs. Francis D. Conroy, Norwich.  Private Conroy was serving with a field artillery unit and is now hospitalized in France.  He has been overseas three months.

 

Staff Sgt. Lawrence Thompson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Thompson, Norwich, wounded in Germany Dec. 5.

 

Pvt. Donald C. Harvey, husband of Mrs. Marion Harvey, Norwich, wounded in France.  He is now in a base hospital in France.

 

A telegram received by Mr. and Mrs. Rupert Tarbell, of Earlville, reports that their son, Sgt Warren Tarbell, is missing in action in Germany.



 

Otto Neidlinger Returns to Duty

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 18, 1945

Otto G. Neidlinger, AOM 3/C, who had been spending a leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Otto F. Neidlinger, after serving with the Pacific Fleet for a number of months, has returned to the West Coast.  Petty Officer Neidlinger wears two service ribbons with four Bronze Stars.

 

S/Sgt. Louis Finch Returns to Outfit

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 18, 1945

 

Good news was received by Doris Sherman Finch Saturday noon when a telegram arrived from the War Department stating that her husband, S/Sgt. Louis W. Finch, who had been reported missing in action since Oct. 23, had rejoined his outfit on Jan. 1.  Staff Sergeant Finch, gunner on a Liberator, was reported missing while flying from his base out of Italy.

 

Jack Hawkins Home from Overseas

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 18, 1945

 

 

Jack V Hawkins

 

Jack V. Hawkins, Cox., U.S.N.R., accompanied by his wife of Springfield, Mass. has returned to Boston for re-assignment after spending a leave with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Hawkins, in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].  Petty Officer Hawkins was granted a 30-day leave after serving 21 months overseas.  He took part in five invasions, North Africa, Sicily, Salerno, Anxio and Normandy.  He wears two ribbons--American Theatre and European Theatre, with five stars.  He also was awarded a British citation during the invasion of Normandy.  The young sailor had a number of narrow escapes.

 

Edwin Jones Missing in Action

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 25, 1945

 

Word was received by Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Burnside, of Masonville, on Monday from Mrs. Edwin N. Jones, who lives in Louisiana, that her husband was reported missing in action in Europe on Dec. 17, 1944.  Sergeant Jones is a nephew of Mr. Burnside and the son of Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Jones of East Masonville [Delaware Co., NY].  He enlisted in the Army in 1936 and at that time saw two years service in Hawaii.  He re-enlisted in 1939 after being out of the Army two years and has been in service since.  For some time he was stationed in Louisiana with an infantry training unit and it was while there that he was married. 

 

Douglas Neidlinger Completes Special Course

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 25, 1945

 

An air service command ordnance depot in England:  Pfc. Douglas L. Neidlinger, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], is a driver who gets his bombs through because he knows what makes his truck tick.  He was recently awarded a certificate of proficiency after completing a special course on the maintenance of the big trucks which haul bombs and gasoline to the Fortresses blasting Germany.  With scores of other drivers here at this Air Service Command ordnance depot he spent hours at blackboard drill and actual road demonstrations learning methods to prevent breakdown from "deadlining" his truck.  Pfc. Neidlinger is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Otto F.  Neidlinger, of Bainbridge.  Before entering the Air Forces in January 1943 he was employed by Co-op G.L.F. in Bainbridge as a truck driver and general helper.  He has three brothers in the service, Sgt. Frederick Neidlinger, of Aberdeen, Md.; Earl K. Neidlinger, Mo. M.M. 3/C, Otto G. Neidlinger, AOM C/3.

 

John Hulbert Writes Poem

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 25, 1945

 

 

John G. Hulbert, Y 3/C

In Pacific Area

 

RECONVERSION

by John George Hulbert, Y 3/C

 

When Bugles Sound Their Final Notes

And Bombs Explode No More

When We Return to What We Did

Before We Went to War

The Sudden Shift in Status

In the Ladder of Success,

Might Make Some Worthy Gentleman

Feel Like an Awful Mess.

 

Just Think of Some Poor Captain

Minus His Silver Bars,

Standing Behind a Counter,

Selling Peanuts and Cigars,

And Think of All the Majors

With Their Oak Leaves Far Behind

And the Uniforms They're Wearing

Are the Western Union Kind.

 

Shed a Tear for Some Poor Colonel

If He Doesn't Feel Himself, Jerking Sodas Isn't Easy

When Your "Eagle's" on the Shelf,

'Tis a Bitter Pill to Swallow

'Tis a Matter for Despair,

Being Messengers and Clerks Again

A Mighty Cross to Bear.

 

So Be Kind to Working People

That You Meet Where E'er You Go

For the Guy That's Washing Dishes

May be Your Old C.O.



 

 

Obituaries (August 4)

Guilford was shocked and grieved when it became known late Thursday afternoon of the terrible accident, that caused the death of Coach Nicholas Buffo's small six-year-old son at their home in Cobleskill.  As he left the school bus, which had come to a stand still to discharge its students, he was struck by a car and instantly killed.  Mr. Buffo has tried all fall to find suitable rooms, so as to bring his wife and two small sons here, where he serves as coach in the Guilford Central School.  Mr. Buffo had just arranged to have the large apartment in the Sarah Keller home on Main street and plans were completed to move to Guilford on Saturday.  Mr. Buffo left immediately for his home.  The sympathy of the entire community, the school and the faculty go with Mr. and Mrs. Buffo in their great sorrow.  Flowers and a purse were sent to them from their friends in town, and flowers from the faculty and the athletic teams.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 11, 1945]

 

Dr. William Shields Myers, retired chemist and educator, died here Wednesday at his home, Stonehenge.  He was 78.  Mr. Myers was a director of the Chilean Nitrate Commission for the United States, serving from 1901 to 1926.  An authority on soils and crop production, he was joint author with the late Prof. E.B Voorhees of a plan for systematic development of agricultural education in Mexico which was adopted by the Mexican Government.  An associate professor of chemistry at Rutgers University, New Brunswick, N.J., from 1893 to 1901, Mr. Myers had been a member of the university board of trustees since 1902 except for a five-year period form 1907 to 1912.  He was mayor of New Brunswick from 1904 to 1906.  Dr. Myers was born in Albany and was graduated from Rutgers College, New Jersey, in 1889.  Then studied in Berlin under Professor Hoffman and also in Munich.  Later he went to University College in London where he worked for a year with and under Sir William Ramsey.  For the last 24 years Mr. Myers was a member of the managing commission of the New Jersey State college of Agriculture.  He was the author of "The Cult of Incompetence," "Philosophies of Government" and "Christian and Barbarian," published in 1939, as well as numerous works on crop cultivation and soil nutrition.  He was a founder of the "Journal of Soil Science," a periodical.  He was a life Fellow of the London Chemical Society and was a life member.  He was a charter member and life member of the Chemists Club of New York and of the Authors Club of London.  Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Annie Lambert Myers, and a son, William Lambert Myers.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 18, 1945]

 

Bernhardt Anderson, aged 34, died at Binghamton [Broome Co., NY] recently of shock and compound fractures of the legs suffered Nov. 7 when a small stove exploded at the farm home of his father near Afton [Chenango Co., NY].  A Pennsylvania Railroad freight engineer, Mr. Anderson was visiting his father, who had just purchased the farm.  The victim was building a fire of soft coal in the stove and the explosion resulted from an accumulation of gas.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 18, 1945]

 

On Wednesday of last week, says the Deposit Courier, a little daughter of Mr. Erastus Mills, living on Dry Brook, about four miles from Cannonsville [Delaware Co., NY], aged four years, was instantly killed.  She had gone to the pig pen and climbed up to see the little pigs, when a stone boat near by which was turned up on one side, tilted over, striking the back of her neck and breaking it.  She had been absent from the house but a few minutes when, being missed, her mother went to look for her and found her dead.  [Bainbridge Republican, May 27, 1876]

 

On Sunday, May 29th, says the Bainbridge Review, Thomas Welch, a section hand on the A.&S. Road, was drowned in the river about two miles east of the village.  Deceased slipped from a dam into a deep hole below, and not being able to swim, although several men were standing near, drowned almost without an effort for his life.  Daniel Campbell was rowing a boat a little way off, but being deaf, could not be summoned to his rescue.  [Chenango Telegraph & Chronicle, June 8, 1870]

 

The funeral of Mrs. Della Dunne, which was held from the Baptist church Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, was largely attended and there were many beautiful floral tributes.  Mrs. Dunne was born in Dinwiddle county, Virginia, 45 years ago, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Johnson.  when only 12 years old the family moved to New York.  Early in life she became the wife of David H. Dunne and most of her married life has been spent in New Jersey and New York.  In April 1925.  Mr. Dunne bought the old Beverly place on the road between here [Unadilla, Otsego Co., NY] and Sidney and with his family moved there from Paterson, N.J. For the past three years Mrs. Dunne has been a patient in the tubercular hospital at Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] where she passed away Sunday morning, Jan. 11.  The officiating clergyman at the funeral was Rev. Mr. Pope of Norwich and he was assisted by Rev Mr Williams of Harpursville.  Burial in Greenlawn cemetery.  Besides her husband there remain to mourn her loss her father, William Johnson of New York city; one brother John A. Johnson of Jamaica, L.I., and ten children.  [Unadilla Times, Jan. 30, 1931]

 

 

Marriages (August 4)

Mr. and Mrs. Walter Callen, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], announce the engagement of their daughter, Frances Laurel, to Corporal David O. Rhydderch, son of Mrs. Jesse Campbell of 205 Main Street, Johnson City [Broome Co., NY].  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 18, 1945]

Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Delello announce the marriage of their daughter, Carmalina M. Delello to Kenneth S. Dingman, son of Mr. and Mrs. Laurence Dingman, of Newark Valley [Tioga Co., NY], on January 14, 1945.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 18, 1945]

A happy circle of friends and relatives gathered at the home of Ira Scott, in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], August 2d, to witness the marriage of his only daughter Alice, to George Tifft, of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY].  The ceremony as performed by Rev. Mr. Brockway, of Norwich in a pleasing, beautiful manner. One  had only to look on the array of costly presents to feel assured that the youthful pair had loving friends with well-filled purses, and giving hearts.  Silver table linen, lamps and many other valuable presents, besides $40 in gold given by the father of the bride.  All hearts were happy  on the marriage day, but sill a mother's tears were blended with her smiles, as she realized her only daughter was now leaving home.  The name of home, how sacred;  where all the heart's affections have been entwined, and a mother's care and love unchanging. The newly wedded pair went on an excursion to Fish Creek, and August 4th met at the home of the bridegroom, Mr. Thomas Tifft, in Coventry, where a pleasant company of relatives, ministers and acquaintances from New York were present.  The happy couple have the hearty congratulations and best wishes of their friends:

And may their burdens e'er be light,

Their joys calm and serene,

Their only tiffs (Tifft's) be little ones,

But few, and far between.

[Chenango Union, Aug. 14, 1881]

 

On Wednesday evening of this week, at the home of the bride, in this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], Mr. John L. Clark was united in marriage to Miss Emma M. Marshall, only daughter of Hiram Marshall. The ceremony was performed  by Rev. D.N. Grummon.  the bride was very nicely dressed, and we noticed at the reception one or two very elegant presents. this couple, it seems, have wooed since babyhood, and Cupid, who no doubt had an idea of his own, has at last, consummated a union, which, we trust, will never be disturbed in its present harmonies--a union which the friends of both will unite in expressions of congratulation and wishes for their beatific prosperity through all their walk in life.  Among the invited guests were C.M. Priest, L.B. Clark, I.M. Curtis, S.S. Burich, Willard Hastings, and your truly.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 23, 1879]

Marriage Notices - Chenango Union, December 9, 1863

In Sherburne, Dec. 1st, by Rev. W. Peck, Mr. John F. Buell, to Miss Mary A. Bassett, all of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY]

 

At Aylesworth's Hotel, South New Berlin, Dec. 2d, by Rev. W. Burnside, Mr. Hiram Mills, to Miss Maria Cooper, both of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY]

 

In Smyrna, Nov. 13th, by F.E. Dimmick, Esq., Mr. Samuel Hodges, of Hamilton [Madison Co., NY], to Mrs. Rachel Orr of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

 

In Flagg, Ogle Co. Illinois, at the residence of the bride's father, by F.R. Willoughby, Esq., Mr. James J. Root, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Ann Eliza McGerth, of the former place.

Miscellaneous

Tank Truck Plunges off Bridge in Afton

Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 11, 1945

 

One of the worst accidents of this area in many years occurred Tuesday morning about 7:20 when a 15-ton tractor-trailer plunged into the Susquehanna River from the Afton bridge, presumably costing the life of the driver.

 

Operating the 4,000 gallon milk tanker, owned by Zuber Trucking Corp., of Norwich, was Elmo Daniels, 37, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], who is believed to have lost his life when the tanker went out of control at the south end of the bridge, climbing the girder and then catapulting 30 feet into the icy water.  The cab crashed through the ice in 18 feet of water while the tank remained above the water in a semi-vertical position, supported by a concrete abutment.

 

A 35-ton wrecker, of Endicott, was employed to raise the truck and cab out of the water which was not accomplished until 9 o'clock Tuesday night but there was no trace of Mr. Daniels' body in the cab, but there was blood on the interior of the cab which lead officials to believe that the driver was in the cab when it began it fatal plunge.  Wednesday morning it was presumed that Mr. Daniels might have jumped as the truck started over the side of the bridge and that the cab may have landed on top of him driving his body down in the mud of the bottom of the river.  State police and officials were busy Wednesday morning trying to dig out the mud in an attempt to retrieve the body.  It is reported that Charles Fowler, of Afton, who is employed in Horton's Store, was crossing the bridge on his way to work at the time the accident occurred and that he was walking on the sidewalk just a few feet ahead of the spot where the truck tore away 40 to 50 feet of the sidewalk, as it hurtled into the river.

 

Mr. Daniels is married and has four children.  He was returning from New York where the cargo had been discharged.  Whether there was anyone else riding in the cab has not been determined.

 

Body of Elmo Daniels Found

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 18, 1945

 

On Friday afternoon a group of Afton men found the body of Elmo D. Daniels, 37, of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], who lost his life early Tuesday morning when his large milk tank truck apparently skidded on the approach to the Afton bridge and plunged into the Susquehanna.  The body of the truck driver, father of four children, was reported found in eight feet of water about 10 feet from where the cab of the truck landed.  Among the Afton men who found the body were Tracy Doolittle assisted  by C. Fred Kane, Frank Knapp, Gordon Knapp and Frank Hatton.  The body was removed to the Tabor Funeral Home in Afton where a prayer service was held Monday at 1:30, at 2:30.  The funeral service was held at the Mt.  Hope Chapel in Norwich.  Surviving are his wife, Marleia, three daughters, Wanetta, Shirley and Alberta; a son, George; the father, Merritt Daniels, of Oxford; and a brother, Ashton Daniels, of Norwich.

 

 

 

Borden Plant Receives War Food Administration "A" Achievement Award

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 18, 1945

 



 

The Bainbridge Dry Milk Plant of the Borden Company, whose officers and employees will receive the "A" award from the W.F.A., Thursday, January 18th.  Insets:  Upper left, Clyde E. Beardslee, vice-president of the Borden Company.  Upper right, A.C. Beardslee, General Superintendent of the Bainbridge plant of the Manufactured Products Division.  Lower right:  Dr. Joseph M. Flannery, Manager of the plant.



Soldier News continued - 1945

Pvt. Kimbal Thomson Shot in Both Legs

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 11, 1945

Private Kimball Thomson, of Walton [Delaware Co., NY], who has been wounded twice in action in France and hospitalized in England since Sept. 24, suffering from machine gun wounds and with both legs broken, is back in the United States.  On Sept. 7, Private Thomson was wounded about the head and face by shrapnel, but was back with his outfit in three days.  He was awarded the Purple Heart and the Oak Leaf Cluster.  Private Thomson is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Thomson, of Sanford [Broome Co., NY].   He was employed by the Camp  Milling Co., of Walton, before induction in the Army and received his basic training at Camp Blanding, Fla.  He has been in France with Co. K, 318th Infantry.  After being  wounded the last time he was flown to England, where he underwent an operation on Sept. 28.  He has both legs in casts and is in the Holleran Hospital, New York City. 

 

Lawrence Darlin Promoted to Sergeant

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 11, 1945

 

An 8th Air Force Bomber Station, England:  Lawrence E. Darlin, son of Mrs. Frances P. Darlin, 12 Pearl street, Bainbridge, has been promoted from corporal to sergeant, it was announced by Lt. Col. Robert W. Fish, commanding officer of this base.  Working in the headquarters of the heavy bombardment group operating from this base, Sgt. Darlin is charged with the responsibility of taking care of all the records of the men in his squadron.  Their service records, pay rolls and furlough applications all pass through his hands for entries and notations.  A graduate of Oneonta High School, Sgt. Darlin was employed by Borden's Casein Co. of America at their chemical testing laboratory at Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] before he entered the Army in October, 1942.  His wife, Mrs. Beatrice Irene Darlin, lives at Wells Bridge [Otsego Co., NY]. 

 

Donald Patchen Member of Famous Fighter Group

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 18, 1945

 

 

Pictured above are:  1st Lieut. Donald J. Patchen, seated second from the left:  standing at right is Col. Don J.M. Blakeslee

 

1st Lieut. Donald J. Patchen, Mustang fighter pilot of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], son of Mr. and Mrs. Earle V. Benedict, who has been a prisoner in Germany since May 19, 1944, was a member of the famous 336th Fighter Group of the Army Air Force.

 

The 336th Fighter Group of P-51 Mustangs is a part of the 8th A.A.F. commanded by Col. Don J.M. Blakeslee, of Fairport Harbor, Ohio.  The leader is Lt. Col. James A. Clark, Jr., of Westbury, L.I.  This squadron was formed by the transfer of three Eagle Squadrons from the R.A.F. to the A.A.F.  These were three squadrons of American pilots who had been flying for the English.  They were joined by other fighter pilots form America, one of whom was 1st Lieut. Donald J. Patchen.

 

During March, 1944, Col. Blakeslee established an 8th A.A.F. record in the E.T.O. by destroying 158 enemy aircraft, probably eight more and damaging 52.  This was the largest number of enemy craft destroyed by one group in one month.  By April 1 the score reached the 300 mark.  On April 10 the Blakeslee group broke all records in the E.T.O. boosting the score of kills to 403 in a strafing mission over France.  This day brought the group a triple-tiered crown for having the highest scoring group, the No. 1 Ace, Capt. Don Gentile, and the record of 31 kills in a single mission.  By April 29, this Fighter Group had destroyed 348 enemy aircraft in the air and 155 on the ground.  This total of more than 500 destroyed made them the first U.S. group in the European Theatre to achieve such a record.

 

These operations had taken "the Birdmen" over Poland, Czechoslovakia, Paris, Berlin, over Hitler's beer hall shrine in Munich near Switzerland, the Pyrenees, and the tulip fields of Holland.

 

Lt. Burnard Page Safe in China

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 18, 1945

 

Following weeks of anxiety, the Erford Page family, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], have received definite information that their son, Lt. Burnard Page, is safe somewhere in China.  Word had been received that he was missing in action, Nov. 11.  He was on a bombing mission with one of America's largest bombers when the plane was apparently forced down.  Mrs. Page has received a letter from the wife of one of the pilots, stating the crew was safe among Chinese guerillas.  Word had been relayed from the radio technician, a member of the crew, thence to the pilot, who in some way was able to send word to his wife, it is understood.

 

Earl Emeott Killed in Action

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 18, 1945

 

Fred Gerow received a telegram Monday stating that his nephew, Pfc. Earl Emeott, 23, father of two children, had been killed in action Dec. 23 with the 318th Infantry in Luxemburg.  Private First Class Emeott entered the service in June of 1944 and arrived overseas the latter part of October.  Another brother, Pfc. Fred Emeott, 19 was killed in February in Italy.  They are sons of Mr. and Mrs. Earl Emeott, of Saginaw, Mich.  Mrs. Emeott is Mr. Gerow's youngest sister.

 

Burton Inglis Seriously Hurt in Navy

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 18, 1945

 

Lieut. (j.g.) Burton F. Inglis, USNR, husband of Georgina Selzer Inglis, mathematics instructor of Bainbridge Central High School, was seriously injured Tuesday afternoon of last week as a result of an accident while on a shake down cruise in the Atlantic.  Lieutenant Inglis was rushed to the Naval Hospital at Annapolis where it was found that the bone over his right eye was shattered, right cheek bone shattered, a severe gash over right eye, a compound fracture of both bones of his right arm, top of his right ear was torn off, also flesh in back of ear, where it was necessary to do plastic surgery, a dislocated right hip, and multiple bruises about his neck and shoulders.  He expects to be confined to the hospital for at least three months.  Mrs. Inglis went to Annapolis Wednesday night and stayed with her husband until Sunday.

 

Margaret Davy Leaves for Active Duty

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 18, 1945

 

Margaret Mertz Davy, who enlisted in the WAC in October, was called to active duty Wednesday and will take her basic training at Camp Oglethorpe, Ga.  Pvt. Davy's husband, S/Sgt. Warren B. Davy, United States Marines, returned from the Pacific area recently after spending 22 months with the combat forces.  He is now stationed in Florida. 

 



 

Post Listings July 28 - Aug. 3, 2014

Following is a listing of postings to the Local History blog for the week of July 28-August 3, 2014.

Marriages

Posted July 28, 2014

Jean E. Rainey - Myron Carl (1944)

Zita Armstrong -Carl D. Osterhout (1944)

Genevra Foster - Anthony Plosky (1944)

Orville S. Smith - Mabel M. Matts (1944)
Amasiah Whitney - Martha Eckerson (1876)
Henry B. Van Deusen - Hattie J. Gridley (Guilford, 1876)

Posted July 29, 2014
Clarabelle Smith - Bernard A. Gardner (1944)
Anna May Bennett - Karl L . Van Schaick (1944)
Mr. & Mrs. C.. Marshall (68th anniversary, 1944)
Olive DePuy - Paul M. Kelley (1944)
Janice Eva Pratt - Howard A. Loker (engagement, 1944)
Dorothy Grace Money - John E. Lee (1944)
Ehtel Allene Meade - James Morrow (engagement, 1944)
Dorothy Alice Lieb - Robert E. Hitchcock (1944)

Posted July 30, 2014
Isobel Viola Reynolds - Clayton Henry Mulwane (1944)
Jean Marie Bennett - Gerald Wynn Bickford (engagement, 1944)
Marriages notices - 1876
     D.E. Phillips (Otselic) - Mary Utter (Bainbridge)
     Peter Wagner (Afton) - Nancy Olds (Bainbridge)
     Edward H. Phelps (Binghamton) - Achsa McNeil
     William T. Kelsey (Binghamton) - Bette Davidson (Greene)

Posted July 31, 2014
Ella M. Bond - Paul E. Girndt (1944)
Olvie A. Horton - Norman R. Wiggins (1944)
Dorothy Eliza Humphrey - David Cary Landers (1944)
Barbara Hammond - Andrew Cacciottoli (1944)

Posted August 1, 2014
Lucille B. Mayo - George M. Duell (1944)
Carolyn F. Kingsbury - H. Earl Vosburg, Jr. (1944)
Claude Waldron - Florence McCumber (1944)
Elsie Mary Ruland - Ralph Deroy Riley (1944)
Marian A. Birdsall - Justus Judd (1944)
Phyllis Herron - Francis Benentt (1944)
 

Posted August 3, 2014
Mr. & Mrs. Charles Hoyt (50th anniversary, 1945)
Joyce Perry - George W. Burdick (1944)
Wilburna Schlafer Holbert - Gunnar Herbert Wahlberg (1945)
Louise Marie Greenman - Robert Frank Peck (engagement, 1945)
Margery Parker - Franklin J. Youngs (1945)
Phoebe Ann MacPherson - Kenneth A. Gordon (1945)
Betty Hempstead - Grant Wood (1945)



 

Obituaries

Posted July 28, 2014

Numan Tuckey (Bainbridge, 1944)

Mrs. Charles Pratt Perry (Bainbridge, Yorktown Heights, 1944)

Dr. Charles H. Herrick (Unadilla, 1944)

Huldah E. Blakeslee (Afton, 1944)

Jennie Meade Hoyt (Bainbridge, 1944)

Edward Root (Middletown, 1944)

Hattie Oles (Binghamton, 1944)
J.W. Foster (Norwich, 1876)
Dallie Villemain (Pharsalia, 1876)

Posted July 29, 2014
Brian Charles Nellis (Windsor, 1944)
Thomas Kelleher (Sidney, 1944)
Doris Harp (Martinsburg WV, Bainbridge, 1944)
Gesche Wessels (Bainbridge, 1944)
William Sherwood (Bainbridge, 1876)
Sarah Stockwell (Wilkins Settlement, 1876)
Death Notices, Bainbridge Republican, July 15, 1876
     Josiah  Houck (Guilford)
     Hattie L. Mead (Oxford)
     Julia A. Weeks (Oxford)

Posted July 30, 2014
Mrs. F.S. Converse (Mt. Upton, Binghamton, 1944)
Leon Bowman (Masonville, 1944)
Raymond F. Tuckey (East Guilford, Sidney, 1944)
Earl H. Eastwood (Guilford, 1928) - Train accident
Charles Reynolds (Guilford, 1928) - Train accident

Posted July 31, 2014
Nancy (Harris) Haynes (Unadilla, 1944)
Lester Lee Elliott (Bainbridge, 1944)
Louis Joel Merwin (Johnstown, 1944)
Floyd W. Davis (Sidney, 1944)
Bessie M. Shepard (Binghamton, 1944)
Harry Bahntge (West Bainbridge, 1944)
Jennie S. Brown (Afton, Bainbridge, 1944)

Posted August 1, 1944
Bruce Maybee (Hancock, 1944)
Pearl Tyler Rivers (Harpursville, 1944)
Amy E. Rolfe (Bainbridge, 1944)
William Gordon (Sidney, 1944)
Mabel E Baker (Greene, 1944)
James I. Newton (Sidney, 1944)
Robert C. Jacobs (Oxford, Bainbridge, 1944)
Colleen Moore (Afton, 1944)
Leah VanDenburgh (Bainbridge, 1944)
Mabel M. Wheeler (Bainbridge, 1944)

Posted August 2, 2014
Guy F Elliott (Bainbridge, 1944)
Abbie M. Ainsworth (Norwich, Bainbridge, 1944)
Edmond J. Holloran (Susquehanna PA, 1944)
Cecelia Lanning (Susquehanna PA, 1944)
Robert Minor Huyck (Treadwell, Delhi, 1944)
Frank Crosby (Cadosia, 1944)
Lester L. Lathrop (Sidney Center, 1944)
Helen Laing (Andes, 1944)

Posted August 3, 2014
Andrew Ackerley (Beaverkill, 1945)
Richard Symonds (Harford PA, 1945)
Philip Ficco (Norwich, 1945)
Leland B. Smith (Oxford, 1945)
James T. Purvis (Bainbridge, 1945)
Virginia Ann Jeffers (Mountain Home, PA, 1945)
Charles Warren Gray (Greene, 1945)
 

Miscellaneous

Posted July 28, 2014

BCHS Graduation, 1944
Soldier News continued, 1944

     Charles Haase Member of First Ordnance Group to Hit Normandy Beach

     Pfc. Victor Holbert Wounded in Action

     Myron L. Carl Member of All American Combat Team (Photo)

     Robert McElligott wounded in France

     Ruth Fenner Enlists in Army Corps

Posted July 29, 2014
Soldier News continued - 1944
     Sgt. Howard Loker Returns from Overseas
     S-Sgt Richard Parsons Missing in Action
     Pfc. Ernest E. Meade Missing in Action
     Lt. Robert C. Adams Killed in Action
     Mrs. Ruth Meade Receives Second Purple Heart from Sons

Posted July 30, 2014
BCHS Class of 1938 - Part 4 (photos)
Soldier News continued - 1944
     Pfc. Wilfred C. Mesic Killed in Action in France
     Adam Bryden Killed in Action, James Ryan Seriously Wounded
     Letter received from James Ryan
     Memorial Service for Pvt. A. Eugene Bryden
     Ralph Corbin Awarded Combat Badge
     Pfc. Donald Silvernell Missing in Action
     Louis W. Finch Missing in Action

Posted July 31, 2014
Soldier News continued - 1944
     Pvt. Samuel Wilmarth Died of Wounds
     Pvt. Merton Lawrence Prisoner of Germans
     Homer E. Dutcher Missing in Action
     Mrs. Richard Parsons Receives Good News

Posted August 1, 2014
Lucius Huntington - Too Much Married (1890)

Posted August 2. 2014
Soldier News
     Donald Silvernell Killed in Action
     1st Lt. George D. Tillman Awarded Air Medal
     Letter to Family of A.E. Bryden
     S/Sgt. Victor Foster Sees Brother in Hospital
     Cpl. Rydderch Returns from Overseas
     Lt. Henry A. Supplee Aide to General
     James Moore Give Life
     Edgar D. Hayes in Convalescent Hospital

posted August 3, 2014
Soldier News continued - 1945
     Pfc. Socrates Nellis Missing in Action
     Sgt. Merritt E. Sweet Member of Famous Bomber Group
     Pfc. Ernest E. Meade Writes Card from German Prison
     Pfc. Floyd W. Carpenter Receives Bronze Star
     Donald K. Norris Killed in Germany
     Pvt. Errol Bodoit Loses Part of Leg



 

     

Marriages (August 2)

Observe 50th Anniversary

 

 

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hoyt

 

Mr. and Mrs. Hoyt, of Brookfield [Madison Co., NY], former residents of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary, Dec. 20.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 4, 1945]

 

Burdick - Perry:  Miss Joyce Perry, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Perry, Oakland side of Susquehanna [PA], became the bride of George W. Burdick, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Burdick of Lanesboro [PA], Saturday morning, December 23, at St. John's Rectory.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 4, 1945]

 

Miss Wilburna Schlafer Holbert, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Holbert, R.D. 3, Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], became the bride of First Lieutenant Gunnar Herbert Wahlberg, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Wahlberg, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], January 3, at 1 o'clock, at Christ Episcopal Church.  The double ring ceremony as performed by the Rev. P.C. Pearson.  The church was decorated with evergreens with carnations and candelabra on the altar.  Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a street length dress of white wool with matching hat and a corsage of white carnations.  Miss Phyllis G. Holbert, sister of the bride, was maid of honor, and she wore a powder blue dress of wool and matching hat, and a corsage of pink carnations.  Robert Wahlberg, brother of the bridegroom, was best man.  Following the ceremony a reception was held at the home of the bride in Yaleville for 20 guests.  A three-tiered wedding cake, flanked by floral arrangements and candelabra, centered the bridal table.  Immediately following the reception the couple left for Colorado Springs.  For traveling, Mrs. Wahlberg chose a black suit, with a white pin stripe, black accessories, and a white corsage.  Mrs. Wahlberg had been employed by the Scintilla for the past three years.  1st Lieut. Wahlberg, who has been serving with the U.S. Corps in India, has just returned ot the States on a 30-day furlough.  He expects to be assigned as an instructor in the States for some time.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 11, 1945]

 

Mrs. Lillian M. Greenman, of Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], announces the engagement of her daughter, Louise Marie, to Seaman First Class Robert Frank Peck, son of Mr. and Mrs. Julian L. Peck, of Masonville [Delaware Co., NY].  Both Miss Greenman and Seaman Peck are graduates of Sidney High School in the class of 1942.  The bride-elect is employed by the Scintilla Magneto Division in Sidney. The prospective bridegroom, prior to entering the Navy in August, 1944, attended Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy and is now stationed in Del Monte, Cal.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 11, 1945]

 

Youngs - Parker:  Miss Margery Parker, daughter of Major Olmsted Parker, now overseas, and Mrs. Parker, of Auburn, became the bride of Franklin J. Youngs U.S.N.R., son of Rev. and Mrs. George E. Youngs of Athens, Pa., Tuesday, Dec. 26, in the Second Presbyterian church, Auburn, with the groom's father officiating, assisted by Rev. Frank Grosnell, pastor.  A reception at the Osborne house followed the ceremony.  Miss Molly Parker was maid of honor for her sister, and Miss Meribeth Youngs, sister of the groom, Mrs. Alden Mann, Miss Mary Hale and Miss Mary Howells were bridesmaids.  Private First Class George Burnett was best man.  The groom is a member of the United States Naval Reserve.  His father, Rev. George Youngs, was pastor of the Unadilla Methodist church for five years, going to Athens, Pa., last spring.  He is also a nephew of Durwood Youngs of the Town of Deposit.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 11, 1945]

 

Gorden - MacPherson:  Miss Phoebe Ann MacPherson, daughter of Ms. Claire Taylor MacPherson of Lanesboro, Pa., was married Sunday afternoon, Dec. 31, in the Methodist church at Lanesboro, to Kenneth A. Gordon, son of Mrs. Evelyn Furrs Gordon of Madison.  The ceremony as performed by the Rev. George J. Becker of Lanesboro.  Mrs. Lynnwood Deighton of Oneonta, sister of the bride, was matron of honor.  Miss Ruth Kishbaugh of Lanesboro and Miss Joyce Hendrickson of Deposit were bridesmaids.  The bridal march was played by Mrs. E.E. Schermerhorn, who also accompanied Miss Doris Maus of Sidney, who sang "Because" and "I Love Your Truly."  Immediately following the ceremony a reception was held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Keyes of Lanesboro. The couple will reside in Sidney [Delaware Co., NY] where the bride is employed in the U.S. Navy office and the bridegroom in employed in the sales department of the Scintilla Magneto Division.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 11, 1945]

 

Wood - Hempstead:  Miss Betty Hempstead of Hancock [Delaware Co., NY], was untied in marriage to Grant Wood of Syracuse [Onondaga Co., NY] on Dec. 30 at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Alex Hempstead, Hancock, by Rev. F.H. Denning pastor of the Hancock Methodist church. A reception was held at the Old Home restaurant at 7 in the evening, a large number of friends being present.  the newlyweds will make their home in Indiana.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 11, 1945]

 

 

 

 



Soldier News continued - 1945

Pfc. Socrates Nellis Missing in Action

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 11, 1945

Mr. and Mrs. Rexford Silvey, of R.D.3, Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], received a telegram from the War Department Sunday stating that their grandson, Pfc. Socrates Nellis, had been missing in action in Belgium since Dec. 18.  Socrates, who made his home with his grandparents here, was a member of the Infantry, having been assigned to this branch of the service early last spring when the Army Specialized Training Program, to which he was attached, was discontinued. 

 

Sgt. Merritt E. Sweet Member of Famous Bomber Group

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 11, 1945

 

15th AAF in Italy--The Second Bombardment Group, a B-17 Flying Fortress unit of the 15th AAF which traces its origin to World War I as the oldest heavy bomber group in American military history, has flown its 300th mission in the Mediterranean Theatre.

 

Sgt. Merritt E. Sweet, son of Mr. and Mrs. Claude Sweet, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] is a mechanic in the group.  Led by commanding officer Col. Paul T. Cullen, of San Gabriel, Calif., the group by coincidence flew its 300th mission on the first anniversary of the 15th Air Force--Nov. 1, 1944.  It attacked target at Vienna, Austria.

 

The second Bombardment Group was organized in September, 1918, at Moulon, France, and its giant Flying Fortresses are a far cry from the old Frence Breque day bombers flown by its original members.

 

In more than 18 months combat flying in the Mediterranean, the group has dumped 18,568 tons of bombs on Axis targets, rolled up more than 7,574 sorties and shot down  496 enemy planes out of the skies.  From North African bases in 1943, it participated in the Tunisian campaign, the knockout of Pantelleria and the softening of Sicily, Sardinia and Italy. With the 15th in Italy it has flown in the great air battles over Regensburg and Stayr, lent its weight to ground support at Cassino, Anzio and Southern France, helped pound German aircraft industry and Ploesti's oil fields and participated in the first shuttle run to Russia.

 

Ernest Meade Sends Card from German Prison

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 11, 1945

 

Mrs. Ruth Meade received a card the end of last week from her son, Pfc. Ernest E. Meade, written Oct. 7, from a German prison camp.  Private Meade was reported missing on Sept. 25 in Holland and no further word had been received of his whereabouts until he was reported a prisoner Dec. 14.  The young airborne Infantryman has been awarded the Purple Heart Medal for serious wounds received shortly after D-Day. 

 

Father Receives Citation from Son in France

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 11, 1945

 

Attai Carpenter, of R.D.2, Bainbridge, has received the following citation awarded to his son, Pfc. Floyd W. Carpenter, of France:

CITATION

Bronze Star Medal

Private Frist Class Floyd W. Carpenter, 32470761, FA, Field Artillery Battalion, for meritorious service in connection with military operations against the enemy in France between 24 Aug. 1944 and 28 Aug. 1944.  Private First Class Carpenter performed his duties in an outstanding manner.  During operations against Brest, he assisted in the location, establishment and operation of the Battalion Forward Observation Post in a position often subjected to attack by enemy patrols and under enemy shell fire.  Despite the dangers, Private First Class Carpenter kept German installations under constant observation and adjusted effective artillery fire upon them.  His technical skill, determination and unstinting devotion to duty reflect credit upon himself and the Army of the Untied States.  Entered military Service from New York. 

 

Donald K. Norris Killed in Germany

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 11, 1945

 

Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Norris, of Susquehanna [PA], received a message from the War Department Thursday stating that their son, Donald K. Norris, had been killed in action in Germany on Dec. 14.  The young soldier, who would have been 19 years old in February, was a graduate of the Susquehanna High School, and at the time of induction in the Army was a student at Pennsylvania State college.  he went overseas last October.  Besides his parents he is survived by a sisters, Joan, and a brother, Jack, both at home. 

 

Erroll Bodoit Loses part of Leg

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 11,1945

 

Mrs. Grace Bodoit, of Walton [Delaware Co., NY], received a letter Wednesday from her husband, Private Erroll Bodoit, who was returned to the United States last week. He was wounded in action in Italy in late October.  In his letter he stated that he was at England General Hospital in Atlantic City, N.J., and had his right leg amputated at the knee.

Obituaries (August 3)

Andrew Ackerley, of Beaverkill [Sullivan Co., NY], died suddenly Tuesday afternoon of a heart attack while trying to get his car, which had skidded, back into the road.  Mr. and Mrs. Ackerley had been to Livingston Manor shopping and on their return to their home the car skid, going over the embankment near the Kagnor home near Edgewood Inn.  Mr. Ackerley took his wife to the Wittenberg home and Mr. Wittenberg and Fred Oestrich returned to help him right the car, and in the attempt to get it back into the road Mr. Ackerley passed away.  He was brought to the office of Dr. Denman, and the remains were taken to the Russell Funeral Home.  Mr. Ackerly was 77 years of age.  He is survived by his wife, and three children, Miss Lucy Ackerley, of Beaverkill, Mrs. Fred Smith, of Livingston Manor, and Fred Ackerley, of Middletown.  He is also survived by his mother, who lives at Union Grove and who celebrated her 100th birthday last week.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 4, 1945]

The Village of Harford, and that entire section of Susquehanna County, Pa., has been deeply saddened by tragedy which has darkened the home of Prof. and Mrs. Rush Symonds.  Their 10-year-old son, Richard Symonds, while in the woods near the family home on Christmas Day, was struck by a falling tree.  He was rushed to the General Hospital in Carbondale where it was found that he had suffered a fracture of the skull.  The boy succumbed to his injuries in the hospital Tuesday morning, Dec. 26.  The father, Prof. Rush Symonds, is teacher of agriculture in the vocational school at Harford, and is well known in educational circles all through Susquehanna County.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 4, 1945]

Death was almost instant for Philip Ficco, 51, in an accident at Sheffield by-products plant near Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], early Sunday morning.  Engaged in operating a sugar washer, Mr. Ficco, according to fellow workers, was about to shut the power off after noticing that the machine was wobbling.  As he reached for the power switch a casting from the machine flew through the air and struck him in the chest, knocking him down.  Ficco suffered several fractured ribs and a badly lacerated liver.  He lived only a few minutes after the accident.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 4, 1945]

Leland B. Smith, one of Chenango County's most prominent farmers, died at his home in Oxford, Sunday morning, December 24.  Although Mr. Smith had been in failing health for several years, he had been ill only 10 days, death being due to a heart attack.  Mr. Smith was born in Oxford, December 27, 1873, and had been a life-long resident of that town.  He retired from farming about two years ago and moved to Oxford village.  About eight years ago, Mr. Smith was chosen as master farmer of New York State.  He was a member of the Farm Bureau and had taken an active part in the work of that organization.  He had been a member of the Oxford Grange for more than 30 years, and a member of the Pomona Grange for several years.  He was also a  member of the New York State Grange and the National Grange and had served as state deputy for the Grange for seven years.  Mr. Smith is survived by his wife, three daughters, Mrs. Chester Stratton, of the Bronx; Mrs. Lawrence Bliven and Miss Margaret Smith, of Oxford; and one son, Turner Smith, of Havre de Grace, Md.  Funeral services were held Wednesday morning, with burial in Oxford.  [Bainbridge News & Republican,  Jan. 4, 1945]

After a long period of failing health, death came to one of the community's most highly respected citizens in the person of James T. Purvis on Wednesday, January 3.  Funeral services were held on Saturday, Jan. 6, at 2:00 p.m. in the Colwell Brothers Chapel, with the Rev. Paul L. Carpenter officiating.  Bearers were Arthur Clark, Amos Tuckey, Moritz Roehlk, Leigh Evans, Frank Turk, and Harry Bluler.  He was born in Livingston Manor [Sullivan Co., NY] on Feb. 8, 1877, the son of George and Rachel Ellis Purvis.  On Feb. 19, 1902, he was united in marriage to Lora B. Spohn, who died May 30, 1935.  Coming to Bainbridge about the year 1900, he was employed by the America Separator Co. as a machinist for over twenty-five years, and had been employed by the Casein Company of America for over twelve years before his retirement on account of ill health two years ago.  He was not only interested in sports in the community, but was a local fireman for many years, occupying the office of assistant chief of the department.  In recognition of his many years of service he was recently presented with a gold medal and was made honorary chief.  He was a member of the first Presbyterian Church for nearly thirty years.  Highly esteemed by all who knew him, his loss will be keenly felt in the whole community.  Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Marjorie Dicks; a grandson, James Dicks; and four sisters and a brother; Mrs. Will Steele of Los Angeles, Cal.; Mrs. Lillian Johnson and Mrs. Rose Johnson, both of West Endicott; Mrs. James Tompkins, of Norwich; and Theodore Purvis of Bainbridge.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 11, 1945]

Virginia Ann Jeffers, 17 years of age, died in her sleep early Sunday morning, Dec. 31, at the home of her mother, Mrs. Marian Jeffers, in Mountain Home, Pa., where she was spending the holidays.  Death was attributed to a chronic heart condition.  She is the daughter of Attorney Fred H. Jeffers, of Windsor [Broome Co., NY].  She had attended school at Mountain Home, and was a senior at Windsor Central School at the time of her death.  A member of Windsor Methodist church, she was active in its Sunday School and Youth Fellowship classes.  The funeral was held Wednesday at the Mountain Home Methodist church.  The Senior Class was represented at the funeral by Minerva George and Laurene Wood; also her pastor, the Rev. E.G.W. Estlow, of the Methodist church, Windsor.  Survivors besides her father and mother include a sister, Sally, and a brother, James, of Mountain Home, Pa., and grandmother Mrs. Emily H. Jeffers, of Windsor.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 11, 1945]

Charles Warren Gray, 86, a prominent lifelong resident of Greene [Chenango Co., NY], died at the Greene Hospital Wednesday afternoon of last week after a few days' illness.  He was one of the few insurance agents in the United States to be awarded a medal for 50 years of continuous service.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 11, 1945]


 

Soldier News continued

Donald Silvernell Killed in Action

Bainbridge News & Republican, December 14, 1944

Private First Class Donald Silvernell, of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], recently reported missing in action, is dead, the War Department notified his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Silvernell, of that place Saturday.  He was with the 45th division.

Lt. George Tillman Awarded Air Medal

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 4, 1945

15th AAF in Italy-- First Lt. George S. Tillman, 15th AAF Flying Fortress pilot, whose wife, the former Barbara Remsen, lives at 7 Terrace street, Norwich [Chenango County, NY], was awarded the Air Medal at a recent ceremony in Italy.  Since his arrival in Italy last September, the 23-year-old pilot has flown more than eight combat missions to targets in Hungary, Poland, Germany, and northern Italy.  On Tillman's first mission, Sept. 20, his B-17 group bombed an enemy rail center at Budapest.  An alumnus of Hamilton College, Tillman was an employee of the Norwich Bank and reporter for the Norwich Sun before he entered the AAF on Sept. 21, 1942.  He won his pilot's wings at Blytheville Army Air Base, Ark., on Jan. 7, 1944.  His parents, Mr. and Mrs. I.D Tillman, reside at the Norwich address.

Letter to family of A.E. Bryden

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 4, 1945

The Chaplain of the 3rd Division sent the following letter to the family of Pvt. Adam Eugene Bryden who was killed in France Oct. 7.

Headquarters, 3rd Inf. Div.,
Office of Chaplain,
APO No. 3
Nov. 7, 1944
Re:  Adam Eugene Bryden, ASN 32949181

My dear Mrs. Bryden, daughter and mother:
As division chaplain of the 3rd Infantry Division, to which Adam Eugene Bryden was assigned at the time of his death, I am writing to you to offer my deepest sympathy.  Adam paid a great price that we, as free people, might continue to enjoy all those things that make life worth living.  By that he showed his intense love for us.  "Greater love than no man hath, that a man lay down his life for his friends."  Not only our nation, but also our very civilization is deeply indebted to him, a debt we can never repay.  Surely God in His infinite mercy has given him the reward he so well deserves.

Adam was laid at rest in a beautifully located cemetery that is kept spick and span.  Full military honors and the committal service of our holy church conducted by myself were rendered at his graveside.  I am not allowed to divulge any information other than this to you. I assure you that I shall always remember your loved one in all my services to my dying day. As for yourselves, may God grant that your courage in bearing your bereavement be as great as that of your husband, father, and son in the performance of his duty.
Sincerely Yours, Ralph J. Smith, Division Chaplain, 3rd Inf. Division

S/SGT. Victor Foster Sees Brother in Hospital

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 4, 1945

Christmas afternoon, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Foster, of Front street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], received a cablegram from their son, S/Sgt. Victor Foster, of England, which stated that he had visited his brother, Pfc. Howard Foster, in a British Hospital, and that he was progressing nicely.  Private Foster was wounded Nov. 29, in Germany.  On the following Tuesday, Mr. and Mrs. Foster received a letter, written by a buddy of Howard's in the hospital, stating that Howard was not seriously wounded, and that he had been flown to England.  His right arm is in a cast, and it is expected he will be able to write soon. 

Cpl. David Rydderch Returns from Overseas

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 4, 1945

Cpl. David O. Rydderch, son of Mrs. Jessie Campbell, 205 Main street, Johnson City [Broome Co., NY], who recently returned from overseas duty, has reported to the Army Ground and Service Forces Redistribution Station at Lake Placid Club.  Corporal Rydderch entered the service in August, 1940, and was overseas 28 months.  Wearer of the Purple Heart, he served in the European and African theatres of operation and participated in the Tunisian campaign.  Cpl. Rydderch graduated from Afton [Chenango Co., NY]  High School and was an outstanding athlete in this area.

Lt. Henry Supplee Receives Appointment as Aide to General

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 4, 1945

Lt. Henry A. Supplee, of the Southwest Pacific Theatre of War, has been appointed aide to a commanding general. 

James Moore Gives Life

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 4, 1945

George A. Moore, superintendent of the Federal Creosote plant in Sidney, has received notice of the death of his only son in the European theatre.  James, who was 19, had been in the Army about 18 months, having enlisted soon after his graduation from high school in Indianapolis.  He was killed in action on the 1st Army front.

S/Sgt. Edgar D. Hayes in Convalescent Hospital

Bainbridge News & Republican, January 4, 1945

S/Sgt. Edgar D. Hayes, who resided in Bainbridge, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], before he entered the Army July 23, 1942, is now at the Army Air Forces Convalescent Hospital, Fort Thomas, Ky., for a period of rest, recreation and therapy. 

Sergeant Hayes, who was sent overseas May 17, 1943, served as aircraft mechanic and clerk in the Southwest Pacific theatre.  He became ill in New Guinea and was hospitalized there two months before he was returned to the United States Dec. 4th.  He was a patient at Letterman General Hospital, San Francisco, Cal., before he was sent to Fort Thomas.  He has been awarded the Asiatic-Pacific ribbon with one star and the Good Conduct ribbon.  Before his entrance into the service he was employed by the American Plastic Corp., Bainbridge, NY.

While at the convalescent hospital a patient participates in a program scientifically designed to bring about his full recovery, so that he may be prepared to resume military duty or return to civilian life.  Wounded and injured, who need no further definitive hospital treatment, lead themselves to almost complete normalcy under expert supervision and guidance, through various types of corrective therapy.  "Operational fatigue" cases, imposed by the strains of combat flying, are relaxed by planned and informal recreation and pre-vocational training.  Regimentation is held to an absolute minimum, but every effort is made to encourage the patient to develop himself along physical and educational lines.  Many opportunities are offered to develop vocations or follow avocations in classes and laboratory work.  Thus the patient is aided either for return to military duty or a civilian occupation.  Among the subjects offered are:  Radio operation and theory, dramatics and radio production, photography, navigation, carpentry and woodcraft, physics and chemistry, mathematics, astronomy, art, journalism, American Government, business law, Spanish, French and principles of electricity. 





 

 

 

Obituaries (August 2)

On Thursday, December 21, there passed to the land of silence, a pilgrim along life's way, Guy Floyd Elliott, aged 63 years.  He was the son of John Elliott, a Civil War veteran wounded in the battle of Fair Oaks, and of Sarah Whitehead, of English descent, and was born in the Town of Tompkins, Delaware County, New York.  With his parents, he moved to Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] about fifty years ago.  April 20, 1907, he married Miss Nina Walker of Sidney.  For many years Mr. Elliott was employed by the American Separator Company, later, going to work for the Borden Company, in their Dry milk plant where he was a conscientious employee, and where for the past three war years he had worked long  hours.  About two years ago, it became apparent that he was not in his usual good health, but some time elapsed before he consulted a physician.  Finally, in the late summer, he went to the City Hospital Binghamton, and on November 19 entered the Robert Packer Hospital Sayre, Pa. for relief and diagnosis.  After this, he was no longer able to work and failed rapidly, suffering much pain which he bore with unflinching courage and determination.  On November 12, the sudden passing of his brother, Lester, came as a great shock, but he fought bravely on without complaint, until the merciful mantle of unconsciousness settled upon him, and the end came.  He is survived by his wife, Nina, two brothers, George of Bainbridge, and Earl of Florida, and several nieces and nephews. Truly, he was a good son, a good husband, a good friend, a good man.  Self-made, whatever success he achieved in life, he attained through his own efforts.  Hospitable, modest, retiring, never forcing himself into notice; but when sought out, fully repaying with a friendliness, natural, kind and true, he lived respected and well-liked.  He bequeathed to the world that which stimulates to confidence in life, and an honorable pattern in conduct; forces which enrich the lives of others.  The funeral was held in Colwell Brothers Chapel, Sunday December 24, at 2:30 p.m., with the Rev. Paul L. Carpenter officiating.  Susquehanna Lodge no. 167, F.&A.M., of which he was a member formed an escort of honor, and had charge of the burial services in Greenlawn Cemetery, Bainbridge.  R.W. Hugh E. Collins gave the committal service very impressively.  Relatives were present from Oneonta, Andes, Hamden, Unadilla, Sidney, Walton, Binghamton, Rochester and New York.

"The Battle of our Life is brief,

The alarm-the struggle-the relief-

Then sleep we side by side."

[Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 4, 1945]

 

On Saturday afternoon, December 30, occurred the death of Mrs. Abbie M. Ainsworth at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Bacon of this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].  She was born in the Town of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] July 27, 1850, the daughter of Sophie and Carlos Pike, and was the widow of the late Alba A. Ainsworth, who died eleven years ago.  Since that time she has made her home with her grand niece, Mrs. Bacon.  She was of  a very quiet and unassuming nature, but lived a beautiful, unselfish life and was loved by all who knew her.  She had been a most patient sufferer for several years, blindness being one of her afflictions, and death came as a gentle release.  Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon from the Colwell Funeral Chapel, with the Rev. Paul Carpenter officiating.  Her remains were laid at rest in the vault at Greenlawn Cemetery until spring, when burial will take place in the family plot at New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 4, 1945]

 

This community has bee deeply saddened by the death of Edmond J. Holloran, postmaster of Susquehanna [PA] for the past eleven years, says the Ledger.  He passed away in the Barnes Hospital Saturday night, Dec. 23.  Death brought his active life to a close after several weeks illness.  Last June he was under treatment in the hospital, and recovered sufficiently to resume his duties in the postoffice and move about quite actively.  One foot which had become infected responded to treatment nicely.  About two weeks ago the other foot became infected and he returned to the hospital.  The infection in the foot could not be stayed, and only temporary relief was possible.  His fatal illness had its inception in sugar diabetes, it is understood.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 4, 1945]

 

Miss Cecelia Lanning, retired public school teacher, and a life-long resident of Susquehanna [PA] died in the Barnes Memorial Hospital Thursday midnight, December 21.  She suffered a stroke at her home, at 12 o'clock on on that day; was taken to the hospital in the ambulance, and died at midnight.  In her death, Susquehanna pasts with a noble woman, one who has played a fine and important role in the affairs of the community says the Susquehanna Ledger.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 4, 1945]

 

Robert Minor Huyck, who died in Oneonta Tuesday, Dec. 26, was a former resident of Delaware county.  He was born at Franklin, where he graduated from Delaware Literary Institute and later from Oneonta Normal School.  He taught at Deposit and after his marriage to Mary Ann Driscoll, of Delhi, in 1893, they lived at Treadwell and Delhi.  In 1921 the family moved to Oneonta, where Mr. Huyck engaged in the upholstery business.  He would have been 76 years of age Jan. 8.  Mrs. Huyck died in 1934.  Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Hildred Schuyler, of Oneonta, two grandchildren, two half-brothers and a half sister.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 4, 1945]

 

Frank Crosby of Cadosia [Delaware Co., NY] passed away on Saturday Dec. 23.  Mr. Crosby had been confined to his home for some time but his condition was not considered serious until just a few days before his death.  He is survived by eight daughters and three sons.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 4, 1945]

Lester L. Lathrop dropped dead in his room in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Roof, Sidney Center [Delaware Co., NY], last Thursday night from a heart attack.  Mr. Lathrop had apparently been in his usual health and had accompanied Mr. Roof to Bennettsville where they wee dinner guests of the latter's son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Roger Franks. After he went to his room that evening, the family heard him fall and on investigation, found that he had fallen just inside his bedroom door, so that it took the combined efforts of Mr. Roof and Charles Hoyt, a neighbor to move his body so they could enter.  His body was taken to Unadilla, where the funeral was held Sunday afternoon, with Rev. Gerald Jack, pastor of the Baptist Church, officiating, and burial was given in the Rogers Hollow cemetery [Otsego Co., NY].  Mr. Lathrop was 76 years of age, and moved to Sidney Center from Rogers Hollow 26 years ago and lived on a small farm now occupied by the Howe family until about two years ago.  He never married and his only survivors are cousins.  [Bainbridge News & republican, Jan. 4, 1945]

Mrs. Helen Laing died Dec. 17 at the home of her daughter, Mrs. A.N. Calhann, at Andes (Delaware Co., NY], after an illness of two months.  Death was caused by angina.  Mrs. Laing was born Oct. 7, 1870, the daughter of Rheu (Mead) and Matthew Redmond. She was married at Delhi Feb. 5, 1890, to James Laing.  After her husband's death, about a year ago, she had made her home with her children.  She is survived by three daughters:  Mrs. A.N. Calhann of Andes, Mrs. Ely Wright of Walton, Mrs. Walter Holloway of Delhi; and by four sons:  Arthur, James, John and Marion Laing, of Meridale.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Jan. 4, 1945]



Too Much Married - 1890

Too Much Married

Chenango Union, September 4, 1890

 

The Walton [Delaware Co., NY] correspondent of the Utica Herald writes, August 28:

 

The recent marriage of Lucius Huntington a well-to-do young farmer living near here, to Miss Sarah Wood, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], has been speedily followed by the arrest of the bridegroom on a charge of bigamy, and by a civil action brought against him for divorce.  These proceedings were instituted in behalf of Miss Emma Christian, otherwise Mrs. Emma Huntington, who says that she is the young farmer's lawful wife.  About ten years ago, when Huntington was barely seventeen, he took Miss Christian out for a ride.  The young woman was eight years his senior.  It is alleged by the young farmer's friends that during the ride in question the pair stopped at a hotel in Hancock, and that, after her juvenile escort had become muddled by wine, she coaxed him into sending for a minister and marrying her then and there.  The newly wedded pair returned to the bride's home.  Next morning the groom deserted the bride, and has never since recognized her as his wife.  Miss Christian's friends tell another story.  They insist that the hasty marriage was reluctantly consented to by her in deference to Huntington's earnest pleadings, and that the pair would have got along happily together if it had not been for the influence over their son exerted by Huntington's parents, who opposed his marrying a girl without money.  It is said, also, that the deserted wife would  have continued to submit patiently to neglect by her husband if he had not married another.  Now she appeals to the courts to vindicate her rights as a lawful wedded wife.  The bigamy case will come before the grand jury at the September session, and the divorce case is on the calendar of the circuit court.  

Marriages (August 1)

Duell - Mayo:  Before 200 guests at St. Paul's Episcopal Church at Oxford, Miss Lucille B. Mayo, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Cyril C. Mayo, Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], became the bride of George M. Duell, son of Mr. and Mrs. John J. Duell, McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], in ceremonies conducted by the Rev. Gilbert Hemsley of Oxford and the Rev. James Mahagan of Syracuse, last week Wednesday.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Dec. 7, 1944]

 

Vosburg - Kingsbury:  Miss Carolyn F. Kingsbury, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harris M. Kingsbury, of Hancock [Delaware Co., NY] and H. Earl Vosburg, Jr., of New York City, son of Mr. and Mrs. H.E. Vosburgh, Sr., of Hancock, were united in marriage at the home of the bride's parents, Sunday, Nov. 26th.  the ceremony was performed by the Rev. Stuart V. Curnock of the Presbyterian church.  The couple were attended by Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Kingsbury of Jermyn, Pa.  The bride is a graduate of Hancock Central School and of the Charles S. Wilson Memorial School of Nursing, Johnson City.  The groom is also a graduate of Hancock Central School and is employed by Bethlehem Steel, Inc., Staten Island.  The guests were the immediate families of the bride and groom.  Following the wedding trip the couple will reside at Jackson Heights, L.I.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Dec. 7, 1944]

Waldron - McCumber:  Claude Waldron, yeoman, 3rd class in U.S. Navy, son of Mr. and Mrs. Claude Waldron, Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], and Miss Florence McCumber, daughter of Mr. and Mr.s Donald McCumber, also of Sidney, were married Sunday, Dec. 3, at the home of the bride's parents.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Dec. 14, 1944]

Miss Elsie Mary Ruland, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Willard B. Ruland, of 2 Pleasant street, Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], was married to Ralph Deroy Riley, Machinist's Mate Second Class, United States Navy, son of Mrs. Anna E. Riley, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Saturday afternoon, at 2:30 o'clock, in the First Congregational Church in Sidney.  The double ring ceremony was performed by the Rev. Charlton Opdyke.  The bride, given in marriage by her father, wore a white satin gown made with lace inserts ornamented with seed pearls, long sleeves and sweetheart neckline.  Her fingertip veil was fastened to a crown of orange blossoms, and she carried a bouquet of white roses.  Miss Helen Clark, of Hartford, Conn., a college friend of the bride, was maid of honor and wore a dress of dubonnet taffeta with matching headdress and carried white chrysanthemums, Miss Julia Riley, of Bainbridge, sister of the bridegroom, was bridesmaid.  She wore a gown of light blue taffeta with matching headdress and carried bronze chrysanthemums.  Vernon Palmer, of Bainbridge, acted as best man.  A reception was held at the home of the bride's parents, following the ceremony.  A wedding dinner was held at the congregational Church parlors for the bridal party and immediate families.  Petty Officer and Mrs. Riley left for a wedding trip after the dinner.  The bride was guest of honor at a pre-nuptial shower given by a group of friends in Endicott where she is children's librarian at the Ideal Library.  Mr. Riley has just returned to the States from the Pacific area where he had spent almost two years.  [Bainbridge News & Republican,  Dec. 14, 1944]

Miss Marian A. Birdsall and Justus Judd were married Saturday at 2 p.m. at the Methodist Church, Sidney, with the Rev. Wilton J. Dubrick performing the ceremony.  Mrs. Judd was the daughter of the late Katherine Sager Birdsall and Archie Birdsall of Downsville [Delaware Co., NY] and lived with her aunt, Miss Bertha Birdsall.  She was a graduate of the Sidney High School and of Rochester Business School and has worked for several years in the Payroll Department of the Scintilla Magneto Division.  Justus Judd, son of Mrs. Hazel Judd and the late Frank Judd of Sidney, attended the Sidney School and is at present in business in Binghamton.  They will live at 130 West End Avenue, Binghamton.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Dec. 21, 1944]

Miss Phyllis Herron, daughter of Mrs. Mildred Herron of West Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], was married to Francis Bennett, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], Sunday evening at 9 o'clock, at the home of the bride's mother.  The ceremony was performed by the Rev. Wolf, of Guilford.  The bride, given in marriage by her brother, John Herron, wore a gown of light blue satin, with a matching headdress and carried white carnations.  Miss Elaine Herron, sister of the bride, was bridesmaid.  She wore a gown of light blue taffeta and carried pink carnations.  George Hitchner, of Bainbridge was best man.  Guests were present from Bainbridge, Middletown and Pennsylvania.  A reception was held following the ceremony, after which the couple left for a short wedding trip.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Dec. 21, 1944]