Obituaries (August 12)

George Neidlinger, brother of Fred Neidlinger, of Bainbridge, died suddenly of a heart attack at the home of Clyde Barney, Sidney, where he roomed, Sunday, March 18.  Mr. Neidlinger was born April 8, 1876, in the Town of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], son of John and Jeanette (Ebert) Neidlinger.  He had been a mason for many years, and a traveling salesman and later a meat broker.  Mr. Neidlinger had made his home in Sidney [Delaware Co., NY] for the last five years, having also lived in Bainbridge.  Funeral services were held at Carr & Landers Funeral Chapel on March 21, with the Rev. Robert H. Moore, of St. Paul's Episcopal Church officiating.  Burial was in Prospect Hill Cemetery [Sidney, NY].  Masonic services were held at the chapel Tuesday evening.  Bearers were George Bickos, D.F. Wood, William Turk, Frank Clink, Walter Deuel and Frank Davis.  He is survived by two brothers besides Fred, Theodore, of Schenectady, and Charles, of Sidney; two nieces, Mrs. Milford Ostrander, of Sidney, and Mrs. Lynn Loomis, of North Afton; and two nephews, Otto and John Neidlinger of Bainbridge.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Mar. 29, 1945]

 

Residents of Bainbridge were shocked to learn of the sudden death of Clifford B. Meade, which was caused by coronary thrombosis on March 19.  Born in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], April 20, 1886, he was the son of late Dode and Armina (Draper) Meade.  He moved to Bainbridge when a small boy, where he remained the rest of his life.  He was united in marriage to Ruth Graney, of Sidney, May 10, 1910.  Mr. Meade was employed by the American Separator Company for more than 20 years, and was working for the town highway department at the time of his death.  He was a member of the Bainbridge Fire Department for more than 40 years, and he served as a faithful and ardent fireman during this long period.  Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Ruth Meade; four sons Alfred, of Unadilla, Cpl. Carlton, of the Pacific Theatre, Pvt. Kenneth, of the European Theatre, and Pfc. Ernest, who is a war prisoner in Germany; two daughters Edna and Ethel Meade, of Bainbridge; one brother, Howard Meade, of Oxford; and two granddaughters, Jean and Joan Meade, of Unadilla.  Funeral services were held on Thursday evening at 7:30 o'clock at Colwell's Chapel with the Rev. Wolfe officiating.  Forty-two firemen attended the service in a body to pay tribute to one of their oldest members. The body was placed in the vault and burial will take place in Greenlawn Cemetery [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] later in the Spring.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Mar. 29, 1945]

 

Charles J. Clark, 78, a former Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] resident, died suddenly at his home in Holland Patent [Oneida Co., NY] on March 22.  He was born in Forestport [Oneida Co., NY], Nov. 2, 1866, son of Linus and Mary (Cave) Clark.  He lived for a time in Bainbridge, where he married Carrie E. West on April 24, 1894.  She died July 13, 1918.  He moved from Bainbridge to Utica and became a member of the Clark and Davis Company in Utica.  In 1909 they moved to Holland Patent, where Mr. Clark purchased a feed store, retiring to enter the insurance business.  On June 10, 1920, he married Anna Baker, of Holland patent.  At the time of his death he was treasurer of the Holland Patent Cemetery Association and also a member of the Village Board, which he had served for a number of years.  He was a member of the Baptist Church, clerk of its board of trustees and also had served as superintendent of the Sunday School.  He is survived by his wife; a daughter, Miss Dorothy Clark, of Rome; two sons, James K. and Linus W. Clark, both of Utica and one grandson.  A private funeral was held at his home on Saturday with interment in Holland Patent Cemetery.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Mar. 29, 1945]

Funeral services were held last week Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock at Colwell's Chapel for John A. Harmon, 77, of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], who died March 18.  Burial will take place later in Greenlawn.  Born in Tunkkannock, Pa., he was the son of Jermey and Phoebe A. Harmon.  Surviving are three children: three brothers, Richard, of New Smyrna Beach, Fla., Martin and Shrander both of Bainbridge; three sisters, Mrs. Anna Schanz and Mrs. May Hancock, of Unadilla, and Mrs. R..A. Snedeker, of Bainbridge; and several nieces and nephews.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Mar. 29, 1945]

A five-year-old Walton [Delaware Co., NY] girl lost  her life in the swollen waters of West Brook in that village shortly after 5:30 Wednesday night.  The child, Beverly Wells, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Wells, was crossing the Main street bridge with Linda McClenathan, 12, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert McClenathan, also of Walton, when the drowning occurred.  She was walking along a retaining wall near the brook when she stumbled and fell into the water.  Mrs. Irving Bullis, who lives near the brook, saw the child fall and summoned her husband.  Mr. Bullis and several other men ran to the bank, but by the time they pulled the girl from the water she was unconscious.  She was taken to the Stevens hospital where Dr. C.G. Gould worked over her for more than an hour in a vain attempt to resuscitate her.  The child's parents were in Binghamton at the time.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Mar. 29, 1945]

Marriages (August 12)

Miss Janice Pratt, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. Harold Pratt, of Harpursville [Broome Co., NY], became the bride of Sgt. Howard A. Loker, son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Loker, of Walton [Delaware Co., NY], on Wednesday, March 14th, at 1 p.m. in the Elm Park Methodist Church, in Oneonta.  The Rev. Paul Hulslander, pastor, performed the ceremony.  An all-white motif was used with snapdragons and candelabra featuring the decorations.  Mrs. Floyd Baker, church organist, played "O Promise Me" and "The Wedding March" from Lohengrin.  Mrs. Paul Hulslander sang "Because."  Mr. Pratt gave his daughter in marriage.  Mrs. Stanley Wasson, sister of the bride was matron of honor, and Loren Mann, of Union, was best man.  The bride wore a gray pin striped suit with blue blouse and gloves and black accessories.  Her corsage was of white carnations and yellow jonquils.  Mrs. Wasson chose a sheer two-piece dress of two-toned blue with matching accessories, and wore a corsage of white carnations. A reception for 17 followed at the Ann Etta.  After a brief wedding trip, Sergeant Loker and his bride will live near Geneva, Neb., where he is stationed at the Fairmont Army Air Base.  Mrs. Loker is a graduate of Afton High School and Oneonta State Teachers College, Class of 1930.  She has since been a member of the Bainbridge Central School faculty.  The groom attended Walton High School and was employed at the Scintilla before entering the service in April, 1942.  He has recently returned from 20 months overseas, having taken part in the Egyptian, Libyan, Tunisian, Sicilian and Italian campaigns.  He was awarded a presidential citation with Oak Leaf cluster in the Libyan Campaign.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Mar 22, 1945]

 

A group of friends and relatives gave Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Ward a surprise party of their 50th wedding anniversary, Friday evening, March 16.  A pleasant social evening was climaxed by a buffet supper. The table of delicious food was centered with a beautiful wedding cake topped by a miniature bride and groom.  Those present include:  Mr. and Mrs. William Ward and sons, Junior and Ronny, Mr. and Mrs. Howard Sands and Mr. and Mrs. LaVerne Chase, of Sidney; Mr. and Mrs. Julian Corbin, Frank Hoyt, Mrs. Harvey Gifford, Mrs. William Sands, Mrs. Robert Hughston, Mr. and Mrs. Elmont Houck and granddaughter, Miss Loudon, Mr. and Mrs. Warren Corbin, Mrs. Ralph Corbin, Mrs. Olive Axtell, Mr. and Mrs. Millard Axtell, and Mr. and Mrs. Paul Michel.  Besides a purse of money, Mrs. Ward was presented with a corsage and Mr. Ward a boutonniere.  Guests departed wishing Mr. and Mrs. Ward many more happy anniversaries.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Mar. 29, 1945]

 

In a setting of Easter lilies and ferns, Miss Dorothy Iman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Iman, of Raymond, Wash., was married to 1st Lieut. George Roland James, U.S. Army, son of Mr. and Mrs. Roland James, of Pearl street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], Sunday afternoon at 1 o'clock in the First Baptist Church, Bainbridge.  The double ring ceremony was performed by the Rev. Norman Lawton pastor of the church.  Gene Houck sang, "Because," accompanied at the organ by Mrs. Norman Lawton, who also played the wedding marches.  The bride wore a medium blue gabardine suit with pink and black accessories and a corsage of orchids.  Her attendant, Miss Juanita James, sister of the bridegroom, was attired in a suit of gold wool with black accessories and a corsage of gardenias.  Newton Bliss, a cousin of the bridegroom, acted as best man.  Mrs. James, mother of the bridegroom, was attired in a light blue dress with black accessories and a corsage of pink carnations.  Immediately following the ceremony, a reception was held at the home of the bridegroom for 38 relatives and friends.  A three-tiered wedding cake, flanked with tapers, centered the bride's table.  After the reception, the couple left on a short wedding trip.  The bride is a graduate of Raymond High School.  Raymond, Wash., and Grays Harbor Business College. She is a member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority.  Prior to her marriage she was employed as timekeeper and secretary at the Grays Harbor Veener Corp. at Hoquiam, Wash.  Lieutenant James was graduated from Bainbridge High School and enlisted in the Army in November of 1940.  He has just returned from overseas where he served 19 months in Iran.  On Thursday evening, the bride was the guest of honor at a pre-nuptial linen shower given by Miss Juanita James.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Apr. 8, 1945]

Obituaries (August 11)

Funeral services for Ray M. Searles, 46 N. Main street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], were held in Colwell Brothers funeral chapel on Thursday, March 15, with the Rev. Paul L. Carpenter of the Presbyterian Church officiating.  After an illness of several months, Mr. Searles passed away at his late home about 7:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 13.  He was born in Herndon, Iowa, on December 4, 1884, the son of Burton M. and Viola Merriman Searles.  About twenty-five years ago he came to Bainbridge and lived with his uncle, Thomas Searles, who resided on West street.  After the death of his uncle, he was employed for many years by the Casein Company of America.  His wife, Myrtle, died on December 4, 1942.  Surviving are a son, Teddy, who is serving in the army in Italy; a sister Ella A., of Des Moines, Iowa; and a brother, Frank, of Perry, Iowa.  Pall-bearers at the funeral were:  Arthur Clark, Ralph Kirby, O.F. Howland, J.D. Teed, Edward Ringelka, and Alfred Jeffrey.  Interment was in the vault at Greenlawn cemetery.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Mar. 22, 1945]

 

Pfc. Teddy Searles, who has been serving in the Mediterranean Theatre for more than two years, arrived I Baibnride Tuesday morning unaware of the fact that his father, Ray Searles, ahd died about two weeks before.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Mar. 29, 1945

 

Mrs. Lulu Mae Mason, wife of Pvt. Kenneth A. Mason, of Walton [Delaware Co., NY] now serving with the Army in France, was murdered in Brownswood, Texas, last week, according to word received by Private Mason's mother, Mrs. Myrtle Mason, who resides in that village.  Mrs. Myrtle Mason was advised by Texas authorities that the battered and lifeless body of her daughter-in-law had been found in a rooming house apartment, with the body of a soldier who had been stationed at Camp Bowie, Texas.  It was learned that the soldier's body was turned over to Army authorities for an autopsy.  According to a letter received by Mrs. Myrtle Mason from her daughter-in-law, it had been her plan to come to Walton and make her home with Mrs. Mason and she had telegraphed money to pay expenses for the trip.  It has been learned that the telegraphed money order was cashed in Texas.  Private Mason, who formerly lived at Masonville and also at Sidney, was inducted into service through Walton Selective Service Board 404, and received his basic training at Fort Knox, Ky., and it was while stationed there that he married three years ago.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Mar. 15, 1945]

 

Exact cause of the nose dive that fatally injured the Rev Franklin C. Holden, 29-year-old evangelist, in an airplane crash late last week Wednesday in Campville may never be known.  That was the picture last Thursday as Civil Aeronautics Board inspectors moved in to take over the investigation of the fatal crash from New York State police.  Mr. Holden, for seven years pastor of Conklin Center Baptist Church and director of the South Jubilee Hour every Saturday night at Kalurah Temple, died at Endicott Ideal Hospital about thee hours after his red Taylorcraft monoplane plunged nose first into a marshy field just off the Erie tracks three miles from the Tri-Cities Airport.  Dr. S. Easton McManis, Brooms County coroner, issued a verdict of accidental death.  The flying evangelist succumbed to a compound skull fracture, but he also suffered fractures of both legs and the left arm, internal injuries and multiple cuts and bruises.  Blood plasma was administered form the time of his admission as Ideal Hospital doctors fought to save his life.  It was the second fatal crash in the airport's history.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Mar. 15, 1945]

 

Two Veteran Pastors Dead:  Funerals of two veteran clergymen of Wyoming Methodist Conference were held Tuesday and Wednesday.  Services for the Rev. Joseph M. Coleman, 75, of Nineveh [Broome Co., NY], were at St. Paul's Methodist church, West Endicott.  He died Sunday morning at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Charles E.B. James, Endicott.  Burial was in Riverside Cemetery, Endicott [Broome Co., NY].  The funeral of the Rev. Wilson Treible, 95, North Mehoopany, Pa., was Wednesday at Mehoopany Methodist Church.  Mr. Coleman, born in South Sterling, Wayne County, Pa., had preached in many churches of Northern Pennsylvania and Southern-Central New York during a lifetime spent in religious work.  He had served the following pastorates:  Throop, Pa., Beach lake, Carley Brook, Damascus, Windsor, Mt. Vernon, Morris-Gilbertsville, LeRaysville, Sidney Center, New Berlin, Great Bend-Hallstead, Candor and Greene. He retired in 1942.  In 1918-1919 he was assistant superintendent of the Capitol District, New York Anti-Saloon League.  Mr. Treible held pastorates at Yatesville, Naticock, Waverly, Pa., Sayre, Newark Valley, Wyoming, Owego, Norwich, Dallas and Camptown.  He also retired in 1942.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Mar. 22, 1945]

 

Mrs. Amoretta J. St. John, Walton's only centenarian, died Monday, Mar. 12, from the effects of old age at Stevens Hospital.  Until the last month of her life she had enjoyed unusual health for one of her age.  Mrs. St. John had become something of a legend in Walton [Delaware Co., NY], not only because of her age but because of her activities.  At the age of 87 she made a trip to Alliance, Ohio, by train unaccompanied and thought nothing of that feat.  When 85 years of age she fell from some stairs and suffered a broken shoulder but so strong were her recuperative powers that the bone knitted quickly and perfectly. At the age of 95 she did her own cleaning and thought nothing of climbing on a chair to pound a nail in the wall to hold a picture.  Her life was characterized by remarkable physical well-being she had mental and spiritual peace and was a sweet, loveable little old lady, known to her many friends as "Aunt Rett."  Amoretta Jensen St. John was born in Crooked Creek, Tioga County, Pa., Mar. 1, 1845, the daughter of Silas and Amoretta Brisack Jensen.  When she was six months old her mother died and she was taken to live with her grandfather, John Brisack, who resided at Academy Corners, Pa. Part of her childhood was spent living with her uncle, Burt Mahlon, Hamden, and when 12 years old she went to live with her aunt, Mrs. David Kellam, in Equinunk, Pa.  At the age of 16 she came to Walton, working for Darius Dann 24 weeks at the munificient salary of $1 a week.  When she was almost 18, Feb. 15, 1863, she married Henry A. St. John in the Walton Methodist Church.  The young couple took residence on the farm known as the St. John homestead, East Brook.  They operated that place until 1905 when they retired from farming and moved to Walton.  Mr. St. John died in 1932, at the age of 92 years.  Seven years ago Mrs. St. John moved into an apartment in Cecil Houck's home on Mead street, where she did her own housework, cooked her own meals and was entirely independent.  The Houcks moved to Williamsburg, Va., four years ago and Mrs. St. John remained in the same house with Mr. and Mrs. George Coulter until Mr. Coulter went into the Army two years ago.  Since then Mrs. St. John has lived at the home of Mrs. Agnes Macdonald.  Just before her 100th birthday on Mar. 1 of this year she was taken to the Stevens Hospital where death occurred--Reporter.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Mar. 22, 1945]

Soldier News continued - 1945

Private Ralph Terry Killed in Action

Bainbridge News & Republican, Mar. 1, 1945

The seventh Bainbridge boy has paid the supreme sacrifice for his country;  killed in action in Germany on Feb. 9, was Private First Class Ralph R. Terry, 33, son of Mrs. Frances Proutey, of R.D.1, Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], according to a telegram received from the War Department Saturday afternoon.

Private Terry entered the service in February, 1942, where he was assigned to the coast artillery.  About a year ago, he was re-assigned to the infantry in which unit he was serving at the time of his death.  After completing his training at Camp Gordon, Ga., he went overseas in January, 1945.

Born Feb. 20, 1911 in Bainbridge, he was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Terry.  Before entering the service he was employed by Frank Lewis & Sons.  Besides his mother, he is survived by one sister, Mrs. Egbert Riley, of North Sanford; two brothers, Pfc. Earl Terry, who has been reported missing in France since June 19, 1944, and Wayne Terry, of Bennettsville; two half-sisters, Mrs. Elwood Gregory, of Vallonia Springs, and Mrs. Douglas Bailey, of Bainbridge; and two half-brothers, Charles and Fred Proutey. 

 

Cpl. Paul Risedorph Serving with Hospital

Bianbridge News & Republican, March 1, 1945

 

 

Cpl. Paul Risedorph

 

Cpl. Paul Risedorph, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ivan Risedorph, is serving with the 35th Evacuation Hospital in Luxembourg.  He has supported three major campaigns for which he wears three bronze campaign stars.

 

Ensign Guy Leonard Awarded Navy Wings

Bainbridge News & Republican, March 8, 1945

 

Ensign Guy Leonard

 

Ensign Guy Leonard who graduated recently from the Naval Flight School, Pensacola, Fla., is now receiving advanced training at Lauderdale, Fla.

 

Pvt. Kimbal Thomson One of Nine Alive

Bainbridge News & Republican, March 15, 1945

 

 

Kimbal Thomson

 

Private Kimbal Thomson is with his wife and family at their home on East street, Walton [Delaware Co., NY], says the Reporter, while he has a furlough from Tilton General hospital at Fort Dix, N.J.  He is recuperating from wounds received in action in France Sept. 24, 1944.  His left leg is in a cast and will remain so for a time to give nature a chance to rebuild the bone splintered by a machine gun bullet.  It is possible that bone grafting may be necessary, but the army doctors believe the injury will heal of itself.  A machine gun bullet broke the bone in his right leg between t he knee and ankle, but this was a clean break and is doing nicely, although Private Thomson wears a brace on the member. 

 

On Sept. 7, on Patton's swing across France, Private Thomson had been injured when hit by three fragments of a mortar shell, but was out of the lines only four days.  This was at St. Argentine in France. 

 

On Sept. 24, 1944, his company had taken a small village in the Metz-Nancy sector from the Germans.  the men were tired out, but volunteers were sought to go and take a nearby hill where German machine guns were located.  Twenty-six men, including Thomson, volunteered.  They found that German strength had been underestimated and after the American boys had gone into the dense woods the Germans let them have it with the hidden machine guns.  Only nine of the 26 came back alive; three of them unhurt.

 

Private Thomson lay wounded for five and a half hours before the men of L company, 318th Infantry, stormed the woods in force and drove out the Germans.  Thomson was given first aid by the medics and carried back of the lines to the main hospital tent some 15 miles to the rear.  He was operated on and later was flown to England.  He was returned to the states later, arriving in New York on Jan. 3.

 

Private Thomson speaks very highly of the army medics and doctors.  He is to report back on March 26.  The only Walton boy he saw after boarding ship for overseas with Hugh Bodiot.  He has the Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Good Conduct Ribbon and the European Theatre of Operations Ribbon with Bronze Star.

 

Cpl. Henry Soules Missing in Action

Bainbridge News & Republican, March 22, 1945

 

 

Cpl. Henry Soules

 

Cpl. Henry Soules, infantryman with the First Army, has been missing in action in Germany since March 1, 1945, according to a telegram received by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Soules, Sunday morning from the War Department.  Corporal Soules received his training at North Camp Hood, Texas; Camp Carson, Colo.; and Fort Jackson, S.C., before leaving the States for overseas the latter part of November, 1944.

 

Nazi Prisoners Give $3,800 to Red Cross

Bainbridge News & Republican, March 15, 1945

 

Camp Campbell, Ky., March 12--One German prisoner of war at Camp Campbell, Ky., asked to contribute to the Red Cross.  The matter was referred to the War Department in Washington, which gave an official O.K.  Other prisoners soon followed the precedent set by the one prisoner, and contributions poured in for a total of $3,800.  Each prisoner had given from savings from the daily 80 cents earned by those who are employed.

 

 

 

 



 



 

 





Post Listings Aug 4-10, 2014

Listing of blog postings for the week of August 4 - 10, 2014.

Marriages

Posted August 4, 2014

Frances Laurel Callen - David O. Rhydderch (engagement, 1945)

Carmalina M. Delello - Kenneth S. Dingman (1945)

Marriages Notices, Dec. 9, 1863

     John F. Buell - Mary a Bassett (Sherburne)

     Hiram Mills - Maria Cooper (New Berlin)

     Sameul Hodges (Hamilton) - Rachel Orr (Plymouth)

     James J. Root - Ann Eliza McGerth (Flagg IL Oxford)

Posted August 6, 2014
Doris Sanford - Robert Stahl (1945)
John W. Vinton - Estella M. Barker (1873)
Bettie Mae Glidden - Eugene S. Haskell (1945)
Roberta Thompson - Robert Swift (engagement, 1945)
Frances Callen - David Rhydderch (1945)
Helen Mossman - Matthew Plankenhorn (1945)
Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Dingman (Wedding party, 1945)

Posted August 7, 1945
Alice Plosky - Penrose Cooper (1945)
Burnadetta Armstrong - Charles Farrell (1945)
Ruth Stoddard Birdsall - Robert C. Cole (1945)
George N. Merrills - Prudence Cornwell (1847)
James Metcalf - Martha L. Hutchinson (1847)
Ephraim Myers - Fannie S. Dunn (1873)

Posted August 8, 2014
Milton G. Scott - Betty M. Gardner (1945)
Vital Statistics, Afton Marriages 1901
Vital Statistics, Bainbridge Marriages 1904

Posted August 9, 2014
Elizabeth Lucy Loomis - Henry Miller Symons (1945)
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Youngs (50th anniversary, 1945)
Nancy Haynes Lombardi - Robert Miles Chesebro (1945)
Mr. & Mrs. Ward Burchard (60th anniversary, 1945)
Thelma Hauschild - Paul C. Curtis (1945)


 

Obituaries

Posted August 4, 2014

Son of Nicholas Buffo (Guilford, Cobleskill, 1945)

Bernhardt Anderson (Binghamton, Afton, 1945)

Dr. William Shields Myers (Bainbridge, Stonehenge, 1945)

Daughter of Erastus Mills (Cannonsville, 1876)

Thomas Welch (Bainbridge, 1870)

Della Johnson Dunne (Unadilla, 1931)

Posted August 5, 2015
George Gould (Hancock, Long Eddy, 1945)
Sydney Hurley (Susquehanna PA, 1945)
Felix Boyko (Guilford, 1945)
May Whittemore (Guilford, 1945)
Carrie Box (North Afton, 1945)
F.E. Greene (Unadilla, 1873)
Cynthia Freer (Bainbridge, 1873)
Allen L. Hodge (Bainbridge, 1936)
Caroline Converse (Gilbertsville, Butternuts, 1894)

Posted August 6, 2014
George W. Babcock (Downsville, 1945) Truck - pedestrian accident
Mark Drumm (Hudson, 1945)
Jennie McCulley (Afton, 1945)
Orville G. Havens (Afton, 1873)
Mabel Hinman (Afton, 1885)

Posted August 7, 2014
Milo LaVern Colvin (Bainbridge, Afton, 1945)
Perry Van Horne (Canton OH, Bainbridge, 1945)
Isaiah Manning (Coventry, 1873)
William McMullen (Masonville, 1874)  Pedestrian - Train accident
Harriet S. Bailey (Port Huran, MI; Guilford, 1847)
Harvard Burdick (Guilford, 1873)
Caroline Pearsoll (Bainbridge, 1873)

 Posted August 8, 2014
Louis H. Hartmann (Bainbridge, 1945)
Alice Root Nicholson (Guilford, 1945)
Mrs. Ralph Fulmer (Oneonta, Hawkinsville, 1945)
Frank Delello (New Jersey, 1945)
Jane Pierce (East Davenport, 1901)

Posted August 9, 2014
Anna Leddy (Sidney, 1945)
William D. Hanford (Unadilla, 1945)
Daniel T. Aldrich (Rockwells Mills, 1924)
Ladosnia P. Giles (Guilford, 1924)
Alice Arnold (North Guilford, 1901)
Sarah Cable (Brooklyn, Guilford, 1881)

Posted August 10, 2014
William H. Laraway (Sidney, 1945)
Edward Howey (Shickshinny, Pa, 1945)
William J. Aylesworth (Coventryville, 1945)
 



 

Miscellaneous

 

Posted August 4, 2014

Tank Truck Plunges Off Bridge in Afton

Body of truck driver Elmo Daniels found

Borden Plant Receives War Food Administration "A" Achievement Award

Soldier News continued - 1945

    Pvt. Kimbal Thomson Wounded in action

    Lawrence Darlin promoted to sergeant

    1st Lt. Donald Patchen Member of Famous Fighter Group

    Lt. Burnard Page safe somewhere in China

    Pfc. Earl Emeott Killed in Action

    Lt. Burton Inglis Seriously Hurt in Navy

\   Margaret Davy Leaves for Active Duty

Posted August 5, 2014
Soldier News Continued - 1945
     Killed, Missing in Action, Wounded of Chenango Co., NY
     Otto G. Neidlinger Returns to Duty
     S/Sgt. Louis Finch Returns to Outfit
     Jack Hawkins Home from Overseas
     Edwin Jones Missing in Action
     Douglas Neidlinger Completes Special Course
     John Hulbert Writes Poem

Posted August 6, 2014
BCHS Class of 1938, Part 5
Soldier News continued - 1945
     Anthony Drago and Charles Umsted Missing in Action
     Sgt. Henry J. MacDonald Killed in Action
     Maj. John G. Hughes Awarded Bronze Medal
    2nd Lt. Myron Carl Awarded Air Medal
     Foster's Receive Son's Purple Heart
     Ensign George S. Ives Visiting Parents
     Cpl. Harold Smith  Helps Supply Troops
     Donald K. Wheat Promoted
     Lt. Frederick Keech Engineering Student

Posted August 7, 2014
Soldier News continued - 1945
     Lieut. Paul Fairbanks Dies of Wounds
     Sgt. Vernon Francisco Gives Life, Sgt. Herman Gurtner Missing
     Pvt. Francis Sherwood Seriously Wounded
     Joseph Benenati Gets Marine Commission
     Mr. & Mrs. Sherman Receive Son's Purple Heart
     John Burgin receives Promotion
     Guy Leonard Awarded Navy Wings
    
Posted August 8, 2014
Bainbridge Central School Junior Class, 1923
Soldier News continued - 1945
     Sgt. Richard Parsons Killed in Action
     Winfred Michel on Bombed Luzon Invasion Ship
     Samuel Wilmarth Receives Posthumous Purple Heart
     Pvt. Francis Sherwood Seriously Wounded
    
Posted August 9, 2014
Soldier News continued - 1945
     S-Sgt. Louis Finch Returns to Base
     T/Sgt. Donald Wheat Awarded Second Stripe
     William Moran Survivor of Merchant Ship
     Pfc. Cecil B.  Weatherly Wounded
     Myron Carl Promoted to First Lieutenant
Russell Stead Receives Degree at Ithaca College (1945)
Charred Letter Received (1945)

Valentine O'Blinski Achieves 102 years (1945)
Message Came Too Late (1945)
Cyclone in Guilford (1890)   

Posted August 10, 2014
Soldier News continued - 1945
     Pfc. William H. Daub Prisoner of War
     Louis Latham Killed in Action
     Lieut. Myron Carl Forced to Bail Out

Obituaries (August 10)

William  H. Laraway a lifelong resident of Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], died at the Binghamton City Hospital Sunday morning at 4 o'clock.  He was born in the Town of Sidney, July 31, 1881, the son of David W. Laraway and Hattie E. Spencer.  He moved into the village of Sidney 35 years ago.  On April 2, 1902, he married Bernice Case, of Sidney, who survives him. He is also survived by seven sons and three daughters:  Leland, Robert, Donald and Raymond, of Sidney; Cecil, of Mt. Upton, Glenn, of Scotia, Clifford, of the U.S. Army, stationed at Stewart Field, West Point, Mrs. Robert Perry and Mrs. Edward Hinckley, of Sidney, and Miss Helene Laraway at home.  [Bainbridge news & Republican, Feb. 22, 1945]

 

Edward Howey, 45, 17 Butler street, Shickshinny, Pa., half-brother of James Lowry, of Bainbridge, died March 3, at the Nanticock State Hospital following a week's illness.  A native of Dickson City, Mr. Howey had made his home there until two years ago, when he moved to Shickshinny.  He had been employed by the American Car and Foundry Co., Berwick.  Surviving are his wife, Nellie; two daughters, Mrs. Rexford Lockwood, Waymart, and Lillian, at home; a son, Edward, Jr. at home; his mother, Mrs. Sarah Howey; and two sisters, Mrs. Hannah Pollard, Scranton, Pa., and Mrs. Martha Beaver, Trenton, N.J.  The funeral was held March 6 at 3 o'clock at Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home.  Interment was in Union Hill Cemetery, Peckville, Pa.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Mar. 15, 1945]

 

William J. Aylesworth, of Coventryville [Chenango Co., NY], was taken to the Bainbridge Hospital Tuesday afternoon, Feb. 27, and passed away Mar. 2 at 10:30, at the age of 74.  Mr. Aylesworth was the son of Emery and Emley Aylesworth, and he was born on his father's farm in West Bainbridge.  On Mar. 11, 1906, he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Bunt, of Greene, in the parsonage at Bainbridge.  he was a kind and devoted husband and a loyal friend and neighbor, and he will be greatly missed by all those who knew him.  Funeral services were held with the Rev. Harry Brooks officiating.  Burial was in the Sylvan Cemetery, Greene.  Besides his wife he is survived by one brother, Edward Aylesworth, of Binghamton; and one sister, Mrs. Ora Davenport, of Oneonta; and several cousins and nieces.

Another leaf has fallen,

Another soul has gone,

But still we have God's promise,

Rest dear husband

Thy work is o'er

Thy loving hands will toil no more.

yes we will miss him when we see his vacant chair,

And how sad the room without him for there is no dear husband there,

and no one to comfort her in her hours of sorrow and no one to lean to but God

Soldier News continued - 1945

Pfc. William H. Daub Prisoner of War

Bainbridge News & Republican, February 22, 1945

Pfc. William H. Daub, son of Mr. and Mrs. William Daub, of Cochecton [Sullivan Co., NY], is a prisoner of war in Germany.  Pfc. Daub was reported missing in action on Nov. 1, 1944, by the War Department and his parents had heard nothing from or about him since.  They were overjoyed to receive a letter from him last Wednesday stating that he was safe and well in Germany as a prisoner.

Louis Latham Killed in Action

Bainbridge News & Republican, February 22, 1945

Louis Adelbert Latham, of Gilbertsville [Otsego Co., NY], a soundman 3rd class in the Navy, was killed in action in January and was buried at sea, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Adelbert Latham, have been notified by the Navy department.  He was 20 years of age, a 1943 graduate of the Gilbertsville Central School.

Myron Carl Forced to Bail Out

Bainbridge News & Republican, February 22, 1945

Lieut. Myron L. Carl, bombardier, son of Mr. and Mrs. I.L. Carl, who is a member of the 15th Air Force stationed in Italy, was forced to bail out with his crew while on a mission in November, 1944.  The following is taken from a letter written by the pilot's wife to Mrs. Carl telling of the episode:  Going to their target, they lost a supercharger which cut one of their engine's power in half.  In order to stay in formation, they had to increase the power on the other three and as a result of this extra strain another engine stopped.  This left them with 2-1/2 engines, not too much gas left, unable to stay in formation, most of the guns frozen up, in enemy fighter territory and also the Alps to cross, before safety could be reached.  They crossed the Alps safely and were approaching Venice when they spotted another formation from their wing and they got in with them for protection but they led them right over a flak area and in the first burst, they lost their rudder control.  They immediately threw the automatic pilot which gave them control of the ship.  They were over water and had the choice of going down the Yugo coast and taking a chance of landing with the Partisans or crossing the Adriatic Sea and trying to reach land below the front lines.  They chose the latter and started out. 

They only had 2-1/2 engines when one of the good engines kicked out because of gas, but Ferris was on the ball and switched some gas from another engine fast enough to catch it.  Immediately after this in order to maintain a course that would take them to friendly hands, they had to fly through a cloud and it turned out to be a thunder cloud.  At one time in the cloud, the winds and windshield were covered with ice so that they couldn't see out and were on instruments entirely.  At one time they were going up at 2,000 feet per minute and at 290 miles per hour and at another time they were descending at the same rate.  They were in the storm about three minutes but it seemed like a life time to them. When they came out of the cloud, they were at 7,500 feet, losing altitude slowly and land was in sight.

They flew down the coast a ways to be sure they were in friendly hands and then bailed out.  Bill's (pilot) leg straps got caught in the bomb bay as he tried to get out and had to fight his way back to release them.  When he landed, he was surrounded by about 500 Italians, shaking his hand, kissing him, and eager to help him. They took him to the village and fed him and he then waited for the English to pick him up.  Everyone landed all right except Tweedie, who broke his leg. Then they found out that they had fallen on the land of the Province Millionaire and they were treated like kings.

That night, they ate as they hadn't since they left the States and after super they had a professor of music come in and played for them.  They slept at a hospital that night on clean sheets and between lots of blankets.  The next morning they went back to the millionaire's house, had breakfast, toured the town and got a shave.  They went back and had dinner and went hunting and horseback riding and then returned for supper with more to drink and music.  Everyone had a wonderful time and the next day they started back to their base.

Lieutenant Carl reported coming down in a plowed field which made a comparatively easy landing.  He was unable to walk at first on account of chilled feet.  After rolling up his chute he started out to hunt up his crew.  The first one he found was Tweedie, who had a broken leg.  With the aid of Italian farmers they placed him in an ox cart upon some hay and took him to a hospital   Myron stayed over night with some Canadian soldiers and in less than 48 hours was back at his base, having traveled part of the way to Southern Italy with some soldiers from India. 

In another letter Lieutenant Carl writes:  "I wasn't with the boys on their short stay at the millionaire's home.  I happened to be the one who took Tweedie to the hospital and by the time that he was taken care of and I had had a night's food and lodging at the British officers' rest camp, since I hadn't seen any more of the rest of the crew yet, I decided to start back for the base.  That is the reason that the story of my return is connected with the Canadian motor pool and the Indian Infantrymen.  The episode has had quite an effect on our crew as you will see when you have a chance to see the three pictures I just sent Jean.  Tweedie has gone back to the States on a hospital ship and we now have Hong S. Chin as a nosegunner.  Gadberry apparently had a moldy chute or something and one panel ripped and he came down too fast and has been more or less laid up since with back trouble although they aren't too sure whether it is a mild back injury or arthritis.  That accounts for the new tailgunner, Parks.  Also the photographer, Harry Beagle, who was with us on that mission has more or less attached himself to our crew since that incident.  He was the one who had to paw his chute open with his hands to get it out."

Miscellaneous

Russell Stead Receives Degree at Ithaca College

Bainbridge News & Republican, February 1, 1945

Ithaca:  Russell Stead, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], received the degree of bachelor of science in physical education from Ithaca College on Friday, Jan. 26.  The graduates were presented their diplomas by President Leonard B. Job at an informal gathering in his office.  The next formal commencement program will be held in June for a large class of seniors.  While an under graduate, Mr. Stead was a member and corresponding secretary of Phi Epsilon Kappa, national physical education fraternity; business manager of The Cayugan, the college Yearbook; member of Adelphi, honorary scholastic society; was on the Dean's list for high scholastic average; participated in "Student Scampers," original musical comedy.  Mr. Stead, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lester Stead, 998 N. Main street, will teach at Geneseo High School.

Charred Letter Received

Bainbridge News & Republican, February 22, 1945

 

An airmail letter written by Bruce Silvernail, who is in the armed forces overseas, to his wife in Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], should have in the course of events, been promptly delivered, but a fire occurred.  Last week Mrs. Silvernail received from the post office in New York city the delayed charred remains of the epistle, with a large part of the envelope burned away.  The letter contents were received complete.  The letter was recovered from a mail carrying plane which was in an accident while on its way to this country.

 

Valentine O'Blinski, Achieves 102 years

Bainbridge News & Republican, February 22, 1945

 

Valentine O'Blinski, of Bloomville [Delaware Co., NY], celebrated his 102nd birthday on Wednesday, Feb. 14, Valentine's Day.  Delaware County has had several residents who have attained the age of 100 years, but so far as the records show the only other county resident to reach the 102 mark was John Dugan, of Roxbury, Civil War veteran, who died Dec. 13, 1941, at the age of 102 years and seven months.

 

Message Came Too Late

Bainbridge News & Republican, February 22, 1945

 

The message for which Martin Sawtelle, of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], waited for a year before he died in 1943, but which never came, was delivered last Thursday.  From the war department the telegram confirmed officially that his son, Lieut. Donald Sawtelle, was safe, rescued from a Japanese prisoner camp on Luzon.

 

Cyclone at Guilford

Chenango Union, August 28, 1890

 

About half-past six o'clock Thursday evening the 21st inst., and during a gentle shower at Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], it began to thunder and the wind increased to a hurricane.  The wind soon became terrific, and from the southwest of the village there came a dense, black cloud that resembled smoke, that in its northwesterly course, on the rise of ground just beyond the village, and for the distance of about half a mile, and some two rods in width, across the lands of A.P. Merchant, J.J. Godfrey, A. Dickinson, Mrs. G.H. Baldwin, S.A. Reynolds, and G.B. Margraff, scattered rail fences and stone walls, blew over and broke off large maple trees, literally demolished three or four orchards, and fearfully shook up the dwelling house of G.B. Margraff and carried away a portion of his hen house and other out-buildings.  Those who saw the cloud said it resembled a hugh serpent in its coiling course just above the ground.  It was of but a few moments duration, and its force was such as to actually carry away the top of a stone wall and make considerable apertures in another in its course.  Had it come but a few rods north and struck the village, the destruction to buildings and property must have been great.  Immediately following the passage of the cloud, the rain came in torrents, and the sky to the west became brilliant as gold, while to the east it was as dark as night.  Whence it came or whither it went is a mystery, but for the time it stayed it was exceedingly lively, and impressed the Guilford citizens with the full force of its power.  [Chenango Union, Aug. 28, 1890]

Obituaries (August 9]

News reached Sidney Wednesday of the death on Tuesday, of Miss Anna Leddy, at Orlando, Fla.  Miss Leddy left Sidney [Delaware Co., NY] last fall to spend the winter in the South.  She was born in Sidney, the daughter of John and Catherine (Crane) Leddy and grew up in that village.  She was a milliner in Portland, Ore., and in Seattle Wash., but returned to reside in Sidney about 10 years ago, and for a time conducted a millinery business there.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Feb. 22, 1945]

 

William D. Hanford, 71, of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], died Wednesday night in a Binghamton hospital where he has been a patient for the past five weeks, following an illness of several years.  The funeral was held Saturday afternoon from the Joyce Funeral Home, Unadilla, with burial in Glenwood Cemetery, in Oneonta.  The Rev. Archie Benedict, pastor of the Federated Church conducted the service.  Mr. Hanford was born in Unadilla Sept. 12, 1874, a son of John N. and Henrietta Dix Hanford.  He attended school in the old Academy and later learned the printing trade.  He was associated with the Unadilla Times when Robert Sullivan was publisher as well as during the time George D. Raitt was owner.  After the death of Mr. Raitt, he was associated with the paper for several years, before taking  a position with the Unadilla Silo Company, where he conducted their printing department for nearly 25 years.  He is survived by his wife, one brother and one sister.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, February 22, 1945]

 

Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]:  Daniel Thomas Aldrich passed away at his home January 13th in Rockwells Mills [Chenango Co., NY].  The subject of this sketch was born in Guilford November 8, 1853, son of the late Dennis and Electia Mallory Aldrich and was a life long resident of this town.  On December 28, 1881 he was united to Clara Bell Hoag and to them three sons and a daughter came to brighten this home, Ray, of Norwich; Ralph, of Utica, Earl, of North Guilford and Mrs. Charlton P. Mickel of Guilford, and they survive him, besides several grandchildren.  Three brothers and one sister also survive him, Charles, Floyd and Lewis of Guilford, and Carrie of Rockwells Mills.  The Rev. J.W. Bump officiated.  The funeral was held in his late home Thursday afternoon, January 17.  The body was laid in the family plot at White Store [Chenango Co., NY].  [Norwich Sun, Jan. 22, 1924]

 

Ladosnia, wife of Daniel B. Giles passed away January 15th at he home at Searles HIll, Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].  The deceased was born in the town of Fenton [Broome Co., NY], May 30, 1851 and was the daughter of Alvin and Eliza Hollenbeck. The funeral services were held Friday, January 18th, after which the body was buried in the Greenlawn cemetery at Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].  [Norwich Sun, Jan. 22, 1924]

 

North Guilford [Chenango Co., NY]:  It is with sadness we announce the death of Miss Alice Arnold, who will be sadly missed both in the home and in this neighborhood, where she has spent her life.  She has been a brave, energetic and helpful woman carrying on the farm successfully for a number of years.  She has made a brave fight against disease the past year, but the angel of death claimed her on Saturday, Aug. 24.  A large number of friends and relatives gathered to pay their last respects and bring tokens of love in the shape of water lilies and many beautiful flowers Tuesday at twelve o'clock.  Her pastor, Rev. E. Kilpatrick, made a brief but excellent address.  Cyrus Brown and daughter of Norwich sang some beautiful duets.  Burial was made at White Store cemetery [Chenango Co., NY].

"Well done, we seem to hear

These blessed words of cheer

From whence the spirit's flown,

Faithful and true to every trust

Whlist bound to mortal dust.

Come from the Eternal Throne."

[Oxford Press, Aug. 30, 1901]

 

Died, in Brooklyn, N.Y., April 5th, 1881, at the home of her son, Hiram P. Cable, Esq., Sarah, widow of the late Daniel P. Cable, aged 71 years, formerly of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].  In 1854 Mrs. Cable with her husband and three children removed to Brooklyn.  She had been in feeble health for some months, but displayed in all her sufferings, the same brave, cheerful spirit that characterized her whole life.  As a wife, she was ever kind and affectionate; as a mother and friend, a true woman.  What more need be said?  She lived and died a consistent member of the Episcopal Church.  Her remains were brought here by the family for interment, on Thursday afternoon last. The group of sympathizing friends who met them at the depot attested well the regard for the departed dead, and the worthy living.  As the sun was sinking behind the hills she loved so well, they laid her at rest, finding consolation in their sorrow, in the words of the voice heard from Heaven:  "Blessed are the dead that died in the Lord."  [Chenango Union, Apr. 14, 1881]

Marriages (August 9)

The marriage of Miss Elizabeth Lucy Loomis, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lynn L. Loomis, of North Afton [Chenango Co., NY], to Staff Sergeant Henry Miller Symons, son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Symons, of Mountain Top, Pa., took place on Feb. 18, at 3 o'clock in the North Afton Methodist Church.  This date was also the silver wedding anniversary of the bride's parents.  The double ring ceremony was performed by the Rev. Kenneth Kinston before an altar banked with yellow daffodils, snapdragons and evergreens and centered with a white arch and wedding bell.  Before the ceremony Donald Loomis, uncle of the bride, sang "Oh Promise Me" and "Because," accompanied by his mother, Mrs. L.E. Loomis, grandmother of the bride.  the bride, who was given in marriage by her father, wore an aqua suit with white accessories.  She wore a corsage of white roses and carried a white Bible with a shower of rosebuds. The maid of honor was her sister, Miss Lynette Loomis, who wore a yellow suit with white accessories and corsage of sweet peas.  Robert Latimer of Afton, was best man and William Little and Leland J. Howe, of North Afton, were ushers.  The bride's mother chose a gown of silk jersey with richly blended colors accented by white accessories and a white corsage.  Following the ceremony, a reception was held at the home of the bride's parents.  The rooms were decorated with yellow flowers. The bridal table was centered, with a tiered bride's cake topped by a miniature bride and groom and flanked by white tapers.  After the reception the bridal couple left on a short honeymoon part of which will be spent with the groom's parents at Mountain Top, after which they will go to Roswell, N. Mex. The bride is a graduate of Afton High School and Morrisville Agricultural School and took a special course at Columbia University.  Until recently she has been nutritionist at Willard Sanitarium.  Staff Sergeant Symons was graduated from Mountain Top High School.  He was inducted into the Army Air Corps four years ago and is now stationed at Roswell, N. Mex.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Feb. 22, 1945]

 

Mr. and Mrs. Frank Youngs, of Youngs [Delaware Co., NY], celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Tuesday, Feb. 6, at Hotel Bishop, Unadilla.  A fine turkey dinner was enjoyed by members of the family which included:  the Rev. and Mrs. George Youngs, Athens, Pa.; Mr. and Mrs. Leland Youngs, Pittsfield, Mass.; Mr. and Mrs. Durwood Youngs, Deposit; Mr. and Mrs. William Sellers, Watertown; Mr. and Mrs. Norris Olmstead, Youngs.  The gifts to Mr. and Mrs. Youngs from their children were watches.  It is interesting to note that there has not been a death in this Youngs family in the past 50 years.  Mr. and Mrs. Youngs have lived in the vicinity of Youngs during their entire married life and have many friends in this entire section who extend congratulations at this time--Unadilla Times  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Feb. 22, 1945]

Chesebro - Lombardi:  Mrs. John Lombardi announces the marriage of her daughter, Nancy Haynes, to Pfc. Robert Miles Chesebro, of the U.S. Paratroops.  He is the son of Mrs. Otis Weeden, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].  The ceremony took place on Saturday, Feb. 3, at Fort Benning, Ga.  Mrs. Chesebro, whose late father, John Lombardi, was housing administrator with the Scintilla Magneto Co., in Sidney, is a graduate of Guilford Central School, class of 1943.  She is at present employed as a bookkeeper with the G.L.F. Gas Co. in Greene.  Pfc. Chesebro immediately upon graduating from Moravia Central School, entered the U.S Medical Corps, and served in Panama with that branch of the service for over two years.  He returned to the States late last year, to train for the Paratroops.  Mrs. Chesebro is with her husband at Ft. Benning, Ga., where she will remain for some time.  Their many friends in Guilford extend heartiest congratulations to them.  Both are popular Guilford young people.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Feb. 22, 1945]

Mr. and Mrs. Ward Burchard of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on St. Valentine's Day.  On Tuesday evening at the home of Mr. and Mrs. L.D. Dexheimer was held a delightful party to celebrate the occasion.  there were 60 people present including two of the Burchards' children, Mrs. Mabel Burchard, of Utica, and Mrs. Vernon Beyea, of Susquehanna, Pa.  Their son, Guy, of Ilion was unable to be present.  The Rev. Phillip Pearson congratulated the happy couple, expressing everyone's wishes for many more happy years.  Dr. A. H. Evans presented them with a valentine purse and recalled many instances of their married life.  A beautiful decorated three-tiered wedding cake and fruit punch was served. The spacious rooms of the Dexheimer home were filled with vases of daffodils and other spring flowers.  Mr. and Mrs. Burchard  were a striking couple  as they received their guests.  Mrs. Burchard wore a maroon colored velvet and a beautiful orchid as a corsage, and Mr. Burchard a carnation boutonniere given to them by their children.  The Burchards were married in Oxford, and have made their home in Guilford for 57 years.  Their valentine purse, when all their cards were opened, some coming the day following, totaled $153.25.  Present from out of town, besides their two children were Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Wackford and Mrs. Kenneth Wackford, of Oxford; Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Stead and sons, of White Store, and G.A. Richards, of Sidney.  The only touch of sadness that marked the occasion was the passing of Mrs. Alice Nicholson, a very close friend through the years.  Mrs. Nicholson had so hoped to be well enough to attend, but she was called away.  Another dear friend, Mrs. C. Adella Anthony, of Norwich, was unable to come, due to ill health.  There is a little clipping entitled "Love Your Mate," that seems to have followed the Burchards through the years.  It reads like this:  "Love in marriage must be something more than a vagrant will-o'-the wisp.  Out of mutual respect can grow a mysterious thing akin to the most enduring friendship.  It is companionability;  it is psychic unity.  It thrives on shared interests, interplay of personality, kinship of ideas, fond sympathy for each other's work and problems--such affentional things can grow as the honeymoon fevers subside. Lovers who are capable of becoming friends can be married and stay so for a long time."  Many friends heard the announcement of the Burchards' 60th wedding anniversary on the radio Tuesday morning and again at noon.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Feb. 22, 1945]

Curtis - Hauschild:  The marriage of Miss Thelma Hauschild and Sgt. Paul C. Curtis was solemnized Sunday, Feb. 11, in the East Guilford Church by the Rev. Paul L. Carpenter, pastor of the Bainbridge Presbyterian Church.  The bride was given in marriage by her stepfather, Duncan Sager.  They were attended by Miss Erma A. Hauschild, sister of the bride, and Byron S. Marble, of Guilford, as best man.  Ushers were Conrad Schlafer and David Monroe, both of Guilford.  The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Claude Curtis, of Guilford Center.  The bride wore a gown of white net over white satin, with a veil and tiara of pearls and carried a shower bouquet of white sweet peas and a prayer book.  The bridesmaid wore white net over white satin and carried red roses.  Traditional wedding music was played on the Hammond organ by Clinton Taylor, of Sidney.  Vocal duets, "I Love You Truly," and "At Dawning," were rendered by Mrs. Connie Schlafer and Mr. Taylor.  A reception was held in the church parlors following the ceremony, during which refreshments were served. [Bainbridge News & Republican, Feb. 22, 1945]

 

Soldier News continued - 1945

S-Sgt. Louis W. Finch Returns to Base

Bainbridge News & Republican, February 22, 1945

S/Sgt. Louis W. Finch, who was reported missing in action Oct. 23, 1944, and who returned to his home base in Italy on the first of January, has been spending the past three weeks at his home in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]

 

S-Sgt. Louis W. Finch

Top turret-gunner on a B-24 Liberator, S/Sgt. Finch participated in a number of strategic missions over enemy territory.  When asked his opinion on the way the home front is backing up the boys over there, he replied:  "The people as a whole are doing a fine job; but a few of the defense plants apparently are slacking off when the time for an all out effort is needed most.  Although we are well on the road to victory, it's this last pull that's the toughest.  With the enemy backed into close quarters, we have to expect some tougher fighting that is going to take all we can give it.  Certainly there is no slacking on the part of the boys over there, as they continue to harass and beat the enemy back to utter defeat.  If they can give everything over there, certainly greater effort can be made on the home front to keep the ever needed supplies flowing in to finish the job.  More than ever, we've all got to pull together and make sure it is finished right this time."  Staff Sergeant Finch left for Atlantic City, N.J. Friday, where he will be re-assigned for further duty.  In parting he wished to thank all those who had made his stay a home so enjoyable.

 

T/Sgt. Donald Wheat Awarded Second Stripe

Bainbridge News & Republican, February 22, 1945

 

At a Troop Carrier Base of the 12th Air Force.--Tech. Sergeant Donald k. Wheat, son of Mr. and Mr.s Seth T. Wheat, and husband of Rita Wheat, all of 11 Evans street, Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY] is busily sewing on his second overseas stripe after completing more than 12 months overseas duty with a veteran troop carrier group of the 12th Air Force.  Wheat is an aerial engineer with duties that play an important par tin the work of his group which includes the flying of ammunition, arms, food, and personnel up to the front lines, evacuation of wounded, and during invasions, the towing of gliders carrying airborne infantry, and the dropping of paratroops behind enemy lines.  For distinguished service performed in the China-Burma-India Theater, his group has been awarded the War Department Unit Citation.  His group has also given outstanding performances in the invasions of North Africa, Sicily, Italy, and Southern France.  Before joining the AAF, Wheat was employed by the Casein Corp. of America.  He attended Bainbridge High School, Bainbridge.

 

William Moran Survivor of Merchant Ship

Bainbridge News & Republican, February 22, 1945

 

William Moran, of the Merchant Marine, of Binghamton, and formerly of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], visited friends in town the fore part of the week while on a 12-day sick leave.  Bill was a member of the crew of the ill-fated S.S. Springhill which blew up in New York Harbor a few weeks ago when rammed by another merchant ship, killing 22 men.  The Springhill was carrying gasoline and the other ship was loaded with oil which caused a terrific explosion when the two ships collided.  Bill, who was a fireman, was thrown against a boiler, severely burning his stomach and arm.  he stated that he swam almost to the Statue of Liberty with a group of survivors before they were picked up.

 

Pfc. Cecil B. Weatherly Wounded

Bainbridge News-Republican, February 22, 1945

 

Pfc. Cecil B. Weatherly, brother of Miss Wanda Weatherly, of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], now is convalescing in a hospital in England from wounds received in action in Germany, according to word received there by his sister.  Reported wounded on Nov. 17, Private Weatherly has been awarded the Purple Heart Medal which has been sent to his sister.  He entered the service in June, 1943, and has served overseas with an infantry unit since last September.  Private Weatherly is the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Cecil B. Weatherly, of West Oneonta, and the grandson of Mrs. Lulu Scofield, of Unadilla.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, February 22, 1945]

 

Myron Carl Promoted

Bainbridge News & Republican, February 22, 1945

 

15th AAF in Italy:  Myron L. Carl, R.F.D. #1, Afton [Chenango Co., NY], bombardier on a 15th AAF B-24 Liberator Bomber, has been promoted recently to the rank of First Lieutenant.  The announcement was made by the group commander, Col. Leroy L. Stefonosicz, Wildrose, N. Dak.  Lieutenant Carl has participated in 16 major attacks against such strategic targets as the Blechhammer Oil Refinery, Germany, Florisdorf Weiner Loco Works, Austria, and other important targets in Austria, Germany, Italy and Hungary.  Before entering the Army on June 15, 1942, Lieutenant Carl was employed as a machinist for Bendix Scintilla Corp., Sidney.  He was commissioned at Carlsbad, N. Mex. On May 20, 1944.  His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Carl, live at the Afton address.

 

 

BCHS Junior Class 1923

Bainbridge Central School Junior Class 1923

"Echo" 1923

 

 

Top Row (left to right):  Willis Miller, Richard Ramsdell, Leon Johnson, Kenneth Ireland, Roland Andrews and Harry Harmon

 

Middle Row (left to right):  Florabell Coates, Mildred Petley, Adah Loomis, Robert Nutter (a Post-graduate), Charles Perry and Edward Partridge

 

Bottom Row (left to right):  Beatrice Forsythe, Lydia Collins, Gladys Smith, Irene Robbins, Carrie Cheesbro, Mary Hollenbeck and Ethel Cook

 



Obituaries (August 8)

Louis H. Hartmann, foreman of the American Plastics Corporation machine shop for 20 years, died at his home here Feb. 6 after an illness of a year.  His age was 59.  Mr. Hartmann was born in Westchester, Pa., Nov. 18, 1885, son of Mr. and Mrs. E.L. Hartmann.  He moved to Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] with his family at the age of nine, where his father became one of the founders of the America Separator Co.  In June of 1906, he graduated from the Utica School of Commerce.  After finishing school he entered the American Separator Co where he worked as a tool maker until September, 1911, when he succeeded his father as superintendent of the machine department, which position he held until 1924 at which time he became associated with the American Plastics Corporation.  Mr. Hartmann possessed the same genius, talent and mechanical mind which distinguished his father through the long and faithful years with the Separator Company.  He was a well-known baseball player in this area, making the town team at the age of 13; he and Lou Wilbur being the first high school boys to play on the local town team.  Those who played with him say they never knew him to have an argument on the ball field.  He played one season with Morris, having a batting average of more than 400; and then played professional ball with Rome for one year.  He continued playing his favorite sport until 1914 when he retired as a player but continued his interest in the sport by coaching the town team and Junior League.  His jovial manner and sense of humor will always be remembered by his many friends.  He was very prominent in home talent plays, acting in many important roles, also directing many plays. He was a former Mason and Macabee.  On June 28, 1910, he was united in marriage to Miss Leona Cornell; to them one daughter, Gretchen, was born.  He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Leona Hartmann, his daughter, Mrs. Charles Morse, of Vestal Center; one sister, Mrs. Henry Hill, of Bainbridge; one brother, Walter Hartmann, of Barnegat, N.J.; and one granddaughter, Diane Morse, three nieces and three nephews.  Funeral services were held at Colwell's Chapel Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock with the Rev. Norman Lawton officiating. The many floral tributes attested the high esteem in which he was held by all who knew him.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Feb. 15, 1945]

 

Alice Root Nicholson, wife of Charles Nicholson, passed away Saturday evening at 8 o'clock, Feb. 10, at the home of Mr. and Mrs. W.C. Burton, where she was stricken critically ill Thursday afternoon.  Mrs. Nicholson was making a call at the Burton home, while Mr. Nicholson was shopping, when she suffered a shock.  Her condition was critical, from the beginning.  It is believed another shock followed in the night.  She never rallied or gained consciousness to any extent.  The son, Raymond, of Ilion, was immediately notified and he and Mrs. Nicholson arrived a few hours later.  It was deemed unadvisable to move Mrs. Nicholson to her home, and every care of a loved family and Mr.and Mrs. Burton could give her, was hers until the end came.  Mrs. Nicholson was born in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] Feb. 24, 1864.  In three weeks she would have celebrated her 81st birthday.  She was a life long resident of Guilford.  Active in all branches of the work in Christ Episcopal Church, for many years she was a member of the choir.  She was the last remaining charter member of the Guilford Woman's Club.  She was a direct descendent of Ebenezer Root, who fought in the Revolutionary War.  Mrs. Nicholson was a woman who lived for her home and her husband and son.  She took great pride in her flowers.  Her home was always open to friends, club gatherings and social events.  She will be missed in all walks of life, in particular, by her husband. Their marriage was one of shared interest in all things.  She is survived by her husband, Charles W. Nicholson, of Guilford; one son, Raymond, of Ilion; one sister, Mrs. F.J. Dedrick, of Oxford, and one brother, Fred W. Root, of St. Paul, Minn.  Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon, Feb. 13, at 2 p.m. from the home of Mr. and Mrs. W.C. Burton, the Rev. P. Pearson, rector of Christ church, officiating.  The body will be placed in the vault at Oxford to await burial in the spring in the family plot, Sunset Hill Cemetery, Guilford. [Bainbridge News & Republican, Feb. 15, 1945]

 

Mrs. Ralph Fulmer, formerly of Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY], 24-year-old mother for a day, died of gunshot wounds last Thursday afternoon in a hospital a few hours after her seven-months premature baby daughter died.  Mrs. Fulmer, a former Cornell student, was accidently wounded in the abdomen 11 days ago when an automatic .22 rifle in the hands of her 22-year-old husband Ralph, a student minister, accidently discharged in the kitchen of their farm home at Hawkinsville [Oneida Co., NY], 25 miles north of Utica.  The 3-pound 11-ounce baby was uninjured by the bullet which passed through Mrs. Fulmer's abdomen and emerged from her thigh as she was cleaning eggs in the kitchen.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Feb. 15, 1945]

Frank Delello, 46, youngest brother of Anthony Delello, of Bainbridge, died Saturday in New Jersey.  Born in Wellsbridge, he was a former resident of Bainbridge.  Besides his brother Anthony, he is survived by two other brothers, Pat Delello, of Oneonta, and Seymour Delello, of Tunnel; one sister, Mrs. John Chrisher, of Dunmore, Pa.; also an uncle, Frank Delello, of Bainbridge.  Anthony Delello and Frank Delello left Tuesday night for new Jersey where they attended the funeral Wednesday morning.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Feb. 15, 1945]

Mrs. Jane Pierce a widow lady residing at East Davenport [Delaware Co., NY] met an instant and shocking death Tuesday shortly before noon while walking along the D.&H. tracks and when near the stairs leading up the embankment at the west end of the coal sheds of the firm of D. Whipple & Son at Oneonta.  She had arrived on a U.&D. train and started to walk down the track to the D.&H. depot when she was struck by No. 17 the westbound milk-train and thrown against the timber support of the embankment. The body struck with sufficient force to break off one of the rotten posts supporting the embankment.  Death was instantaneous.  She was a sister-in-law of J.B Pierce.  [Afton Enterprise, Jan. 9, 1902]

Marriages (August 8)

Milton G. Scott, son of Mrs. Mae Scott, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], and Miss Betty M. Gardner, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Gardner, of Deposit [Broome Co., NY], were united in marriage by the Rev. Paul L. Carpenter at the Presbyterian manse on Tuesday, Feb. 13, at 7:30 p.m.  Attending the couple were Wilson Gardner, of East Guilford, brother of the bride, and Mrs. Sheldon Fiske, of Bainbridge, sister of the groom.  The groom is a graduate of Bainbridge Central School in the Class of 1942, and entered the Army Air Corps in April 1943.  At present he is stationed at Fort Worth, Tex.  The bride is a graduate of the Albany High School in the Class of 1940 and has resided in Bainbridge for the last three years, recently moving to Syracuse, where she is at present employed.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Feb. 22, 1945]

 

Vital Statistics

Afton Marriages 1901

Afton Enterprise, Jan. 9, 1902

 

Jan. 1:     Ray W. Parker and Carrie B. Lyon

Jan. 10:   Wm. H. Tompkins and Anna Mary Van Woert

Jan. 16:   Oscar B. Telcott and Harriet E. Morrenus

Feb. 25:   Alonzo Widman and Helen Hillsley

Feb. 26:   Winifred Paul Marshall and Mary Luella Robbins

Mar. 6:    Wellington G. Hull and mercy Stowell

Mar. 24:  Arthur D. Davis and Maude Lewis

Apr. 4:     Marvin Moore and Mary Banner

May 10:   Conrad Forhen and Elizabeth Conklin

June 22:   Harry V. Cole and Minnie E. Ackley

July 4:     Edward C. Darnier and Leah Pearl Weed

Aug. 14:  Homer Eugene King and Lena Jane King

Sept. 25:  Stephen D. Finkle and Roena D. Hamlin

Oct. 1:     Rufus S. Tyler and Martha J. Thornton

Oct. 15:   Lewis D. Sweet and Bertha E. Hyde

Oct. 23:   Alton Ray Pethick and Bessie Josephine Oliver

Oct. 30:   Wm. A. Huston and Margaret A. Wallace

Nov. 6:    Wm. W. Cook and March A. Holcomb

Dec. 4:    Harvey Judd and Lelia McAseslen

Dec. 25:  Fred W. Brown and Grace B. Clark

 

 

Bainbridge Marriages 1904

Bainbridge Republican, January 12, 1905

 

April 16:     Elwin Booth and Cola M. Bennett

June 7:        Charles Terry and Maria S. Burlison

June 10:      William P. Rader and Lucy Every

June 13:     William E. Hartman and Martha E. Pratt

June 25:      Edward Ogden and Mabel Deforest

July 30:      Ellsworth Ward and Mabel Springstein

Aug. 18:     James Washburn and Eliza Pettis

Sept. 21:     Bruce M. Stannard and Lucy E Hovey

Oct. 5:        Herbert R. Stewart and Lina Copley

Nov. 6:       Charles DeWitt and Lizzie Slater



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Soldier News continued, 1945

Sgt. Richard Parsons Killed in Action

Bainbridge News & Republican, February 8, 1945

 

 

Sgt. Richard Parsons

 

Staff Sergeant Richard Parsons, 25, tail gunner with the 8th Air Force stationed in England, and husband of Pearl Taylor Parsons, of Bainbridge, is reported to have been killed in action over Germany on Sept. 27, according to a telegram received by Mrs. Parsons from the War Department on Jan. 28.  Mrs. Parsons had been notified on Oct. 14 that her husband was missing in action on Sept. 27 and then on Sunday, Jan. 28, she received word of his death.

 

The young gunner, son of Mrs. Emma Parsons and the late LeGrande Parsons, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], entered the service on Apr. 23, 1942, receiving his basic training at Miami Beach, Fla.  In May, 1943, he was assigned to the Radio School at Sioux Falls, S.D., and in August, 1943, he was transferred to the Armament School at Denver, Colo., from which he graduated the following October.  He was assigned to the Gunnery School at Laredo, Tex., in November, 1943, graduating in December.  In January, 1944, he left for Salt Lake City, where he was assigned to a crew, and then went to Casper, Wyo., for combat training.  In May, 1944, he departed for Topeka, Kan., where his crew was assigned to a B-24 Liberator, leaving the States in June.  Sergeant Parsons was awarded the Air Medal in August.  He took part in the Battle of St. Lo and his last mission was over Kassel, Germany. 

 

Staff Sergeant Parsons was born in Bainbridge Nov. 30, 1919.  He graduated from Bainbridge High School with the Class of 1939, and was very active in all sports, having been chosen as an all-star in basketball.  Before entering the service, he was employed at the Scintilla Magneto plant.  He was a member of the Frist Presbyterian Church.  On June 28, 1941, he was united in marriage to Miss Pearl Taylor by the Rev. Paul Carpenter.  Besides his wife and mother he is survived by a two-months old daughter, Vicki, and five brothers, Harry, Edward, Robert, and Merritt all of Bainbridge and Martin of Rochester.

Winfred Michel Survives Direct Hit by Japs in Lingayen Gulf

Bainbridge News & Republican, February 15, 1945

 

Aboard Coast Guard-Manned Transport at Luzon (Special):  How his ship took a direct hit from a Jap plane, killing some of his shipmates, but continued into Lingayen Gulf in Luzon to discharge the liberators of Manila during 19 attack-ridden hours, was told by Coast Guardsman Winfred B. Michel, Seaman 1C, Bainbridge, N.Y. [Chenango Co.].

 

Michel's ship underwent its first attack 10 days before the invasion and its gunners succeeded in downing the lone Jap raider.  Attacks continued periodically during the slow journey to Lingayen and the fatalities occurred during a raid 24 hours before the beachhead was established.  Next of kin of the victims have been notified.

 

"I was watching a dogfight between some of our Hellcats and three Zeros the day before we hit Luzon," the Coast Guardsman said, "when a Jap plane swooped in from astern and dropped a bomb that missed us by only 60 feet.  The pilot strafed our port side, swung across the bow and came back for another try.  By this time we were throwing lead at him in a steady stream.  Those few seconds seemed like an eternity.  Then we took the hit!  It was pretty awful.  It was the first time any of our boys had been killed, even though our ship had been through six other invasions.  I can't put in too good a word for our gun crews.  They stuck up there through all that strafing and gave that Nip as good as he sent.  They got him, too.  We steamed into the Gulf next morning and were busy unloading for 19 hours.  There were more raids and a few hits on other ships, but we were too busy to pay much attention.  We had three more raids as we left the Gulf.  It was a busy day," the Coast Guardsman concluded wryly.

 

The Coast Guard-manned transport has been in every major Pacific invasion of the past year, beginning with the Marshalls and including Saipan, the Palaus and Leyte.  It carries a U.S. Navy flag staff.  Some of the casualties occurred among Navy personnel.

 

 Samuel Wilmarth Receives Purple Heart

Bainbridge News & Republican, February 15, 1945 

 

Mrs. Samuel Wilmarth, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], recently received the Purple Heart Award, given posthumously to her husband, who died from wounds received Oct. 16 while fighting with his unit on the German border.

 

Pvt. Francis Sherwood Seriously Wounded

Bainbridge News & Republican, February 15, 1945

 

 

Pvt. Francis Sherwood

 

Mrs. Francis Sherwood received a letter from her husband, Pvt. Sherwood, Thursday morning, stating that he was in a hospital in England and that he was getting along all right.  Private Sherwood was seriously wounded in Belgium Jan. 17 while serving with the 2nd Division of the First Army.