Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Obituaries (December 9)

Daniel Somers Bristol - 1912

Friends in Sidney, Bainbridge and vicinity were deeply pained last Sunday morning, 15th inst., to learn of the death of Daniel Somers Bristol, who after a useful and well spent life, passed away peacefully at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Charles A. Wood, in this village [Sidney, Delaware Co., NY], at the age of 85 years.  Those who knew this excellent character, while the lamp of life shined more brightly, can best appreciate the depth of sorrow into which the afflicted ones are plunged.  Faithful until the end was the loyalty of those about him, more especially his daughter to whom the good father was bound by ties of the most tender affection.  Every want was ministered to with that zeal and devotion which true filial love alone can inspire.  His was a life well spent, one that ended glorious in its peacefulness. We expect next week to give a more extended review of Mr. Bristol's life, most of which was spent in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] only the last five years being spent in Sidney.  On Wednesday, 18th, funeral services were conducted by Rev. Mr. Weller, Rector of St. Peter's church in Bainbridge, at the family home in Sidney and the interment held in the beautiful Hillington cemetery at Morris, N.Y.  Mr. Bristol is survived by one son, Adelbert Bristol, of Bainbridge and Mrs. C.A. Wood, of Sidney. The deepest sympathy is extended to the afflicted family; their loss is shared by the entire community.  [Sidney Record, Dec. 21, 1912]
 
Daniel Somers Bristol
 
Daniel Somers Bristol, was born near Hamilton, Madison county, June 5th, 1828, educated at Smyrna Academy, united in marriage on Feb. 20th, 1851, by Rev. W.H. Hill, Rector of Zion Episcopal church, Morris, to Miss Sarah Elizabeth  Nearing, only child of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Nearing, of Morris, N.Y.  Later on Mr. Bristol engaged in various branches of business until in the latter part of his business life the firm name of Bristol & Card was a guarantee of all that is satisfactory and dependable to the insurance branch of business; indeed a more pleasing and courteous solicitor could not be found.  In his kindly interest in the welfare of his patrons, a warm place in their hearts and a hearty welcome to their homes, was the outcome of his untiring efforts in their behalf.  In his early years, he enjoyed the companionship of two sisters and three brothers, now, only one dear invalid sister, Mrs. Mary J. Hollenbeck, , of Belvidere, Ill., survives him.  they were a remarkable family in their tender, considerate love for one another and as she recently remarked, from a wee child, "brother Daniel was, as is, my model man."  A zealous and faithful churchman, serving as treasurer, vestryman and Sunday School Superintendent of St. Peter's Episcopal church of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], happy in joining in the service of prayer and praise of the mother church.  Aye!  Almost beyond belief, was his heartfelt enjoyment of these services, especially the musical part, gifted with a sweet and correct voice, he never missed in his earlier years, singing as did the Psalmist of old, "Bless the Lord, O My Soul, and All That is Within Me, Bless His Holy Name."  Agnes B. Wood, of Sidney, and J.D. Bristol, of Bainbridge, are his only surviving children, three grandchildren, Herbert Bristol, of New York, Mrs. Mae E. Greene and Master Daniel C. Bristol, of Bainbridge, and one great-granddaughter, little Florence Greene, are the only survivors of the immediate family of this dearly beloved man.  Genial, honorable, true, beloved all the country through, was our dear father; on bended knee, with bowed head, lovingly, we speak his name, with choking sobs, and blinding tears, his priceless worth proclaim.---His Children [Sidney Record, Dec. 28, 1912]


Stearns A. Williams - 1913

Stearns A. Williams

Last Monday morning, 13th inst., the announcement of the death of Stearns A. Williams, brought an added sorrow into the hearts of the numerous and cordial friends of the family in this community.  Although it had been apparent that the inevitable summons must come, yet grief was none the less poignant to a devoted family and beloved friends.  Two years ago Mr. Williams' serious illness, which nearly proved fatal, result in a physical decline.  It was as though a staunch ship that had braved the storms had struck a rock; after that the journey soon ends.  On the 16th of December another attack removed all hopes of recovery.  It is quite customary to say kind words of friends who have gone "to that undiscovered country from whose bourne no traveler ever returns."  But with Mr. Williams it is not necessary to follow mere traditions.  Nature had endowed him with the attribute of love for the Brotherhood of Man which God alone can inspire.  During a residence of ten years in Sidney[Delaware Co., NY] the family endeared themselves to many friends, who now deeply sympathize with the relatives who best knew his worth but more especially his widow, who now parts with a devoted husband, a loyal, true hearted companion for thirty-five years.  Mr. Williams, in his immediate family, is survived by his widow; one brother, W.W. Williams, of Cobleskill, N.Y.; three sisters, Mrs. Helen Humphrey, of Binghamton, Mrs. Loren Goodrich, of Worcester, N.Y., and Mrs. Howard Bennett, of Bainbridge, N.Y.  Before coming to Sidney ten years ago, the family resided for many years at Cortland, Wolcott and at Penn Yan, N.Y.  Mr. Williams was a member of the Scottish Rite Consistory of Syracuse; Cortland Commandery and Bainbridge Lodge, F.&A.M.  The services were held Wednesday afternoon, 15th inst., at the family home on Bridge street.  Rev. Ernest Russell Ladbrook, Rector of St. Paul's church officiating.  A large number of beautiful floral remembrances were in evidence from friends, the family and lodges.  The casket was of solid mahogany, ordered by Carr & Hare from Oneida, N.Y.  The bearers were, James L. Clark, F.H. McKinnon, H.J. Godfrey, Physician Young, Frank Butterfield, Myron J. Kipp.  The interment was held in the family, facing the West slope of Prospect Hill cemetery [Sidney, NY].  [January  1913]

Mrs. Charles Spencer - 1913

Last Tuesday afternoon when the O&W milk train arrived at Sidney, there was witnessed a very sad homecoming.  On January 27 Mr. & Mrs. Charles Spencer started for a visit with relatives and friends in the West, a visit they had long planned and looked forward to.  While in Bridgeville, Mich., at the home of Mrs. Gardner, a sister of Mrs. Spencer, the latter was taken ill with a cold on Saturday night, the 8th inst. and died at 2:30 Sunday morning, the direct cause of death being due to goiter.  Her sudden death was a great shock to the family, and neighbors and friends were very kind and did everything in their power.  Mrs. Spencer resided in Sidney [Delaware Co., NY] many years and was always highly esteemed by many friends as a good, devoted mother and wife; one who always tried to do right, giving her whole time and best efforts for her family.  Her loss at the age of 46 years is a very sad one indeed for the home circle, leaving a husband, Charles Spencer and six children to mourn her loss.  The deepest sympathy of friends is expressed in behalf of the afflictions. Funeral services were held on Thursday Feb. 13th, at 2:00 PM, Rev David MacDonald officiating at the family home on Riverside Dr. followed by interment in Prospect Hill Cemetery [Sidney, NY].  [February 1913]

Lavina Silvernail - 1913

The death of Mrs. Lavina Silvernail, occurred at her home in Masonville [Delaware Co., NY], on Monday, Sept. 1st.  The deceased died in her 90th year, and is survived by one son, Mr. Charles Silvernail, who is a resident of Masonville.  Services were held at the Baptist church in the above named village on Thursday of this week.  Mr. and Mrs. James Jameson, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Jameson, of Sidney, and Mrs. G.L. Holcomb, of Middletown, relatives of the deceased, attended the funeral.  [September 1913]

Sarah Stillwell - 1913
 
Expressions of regret are everywhere heard regarding the death at her home near Afton [Chenango Co. NY], on the 1st inst. of Mrs. Sarah Stillwell, wife of Mr. Page Stillwell, for many years residents of Sidney [Delaware Co. NY], well known and highly respected.  Mrs. Stillwell was an invalid for a great many years and her death was due to an illness of about two weeks.  In her immediate family Mrs. Stillwell is survived by her husband, Page Stilwell, two sons, and one daughter, Mrs. H.S. Wilber, of Binghamton.  The services were held at the family home near Afton last Saturday and interment was held in Prospect Hill cemetery in Sidney. The heartfelt sympathy of all is extended to the ones in affliction.  [October 1913]

Agnes Bristol Wood - 1913

Friends in town were deeply pained Monday morning, 8th inst., to learn of the death at her home in this village of Mrs. Agnes Bristol Wood.  Comparatively few were aware of her illness and surprise was added to the pain of the news.  Mrs. Wood had resided most of her lifetime in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] and located in Sidney [Delaware Co., NY] about five years ago after her marriage to the late Charles Wood.  Her father and mother Mr. and Mrs. D. Bristol both died  a few years ago, and her grief was greatly intensified by the death of her husband.  Mrs. Wood was of keen intelligence and a kind heart; her life's sorrows were more than she could bear, gradually the earth seemed to fade away from her, then came illness which her physical frame could not withstand.  As a writer of prose and poetry Mrs. Wood had few equals and her conversation was always interesting.  Her death will long be deeply mourned by a large circle of friends both in Bainbridge as well as Sidney. The services will be held at the family home at 10 o'clock Thursday morning, 11th inst.  Mrs. Wood was laid to rest in the Morris Cemetery [Otsego Co., NY] by the side of her husband.  To the afflicted family is offered the deepest sympathies of all.  Mrs. Wood is survived by Herbert Bristol of New York and brother D.S. Bristol, of Bainbridge [December 1913]
  
Minnie Beardsley - 1944

Mrs. Minnie Beardsley died Thursday, Oct. 26 in the Stevens Hospital in Walton as a result of injuries received the previous Saturday in a truck-car crash in the village of Walton [Delaware Co., NY].  Mrs. Beardsley suffered a fractured skull, fractured left forearm, compound fracture of the left thigh, possible fracture of one or more ribs.  Her left thumb was torn off, her left leg terribly cut and gouged and her right leg, arms, and face severely cut and bruised.  She never regained consciousness although blood transfusions, blood plasma and penicillin were used.  Mrs. Beardsley lived on a small farm at Loomis, about six miles west of Walton, on the Masonville road.  Accompanied by Charles Walker, she had been to the village and at the time of the accident Walker was driving her truck westerly along Mead street from Townsend street. Burton Wayman, of Walton, home on furlough from Sampson Naval Training center, was driving southerly down Liberty street in a car.  Mr. Walker stated that on reaching the Mead-Liberty street intersection, he stopped the truck and waited for a car coming up Liberty street to pass, but did not notice the Nash car coming down the street and started to go on.  The Nash car crashed into the side of the truck, which was thrown diagonally from near the center of the intersection until it hit the curb where it came to a stop headed in the opposite direction.  The Nash came to a stop near the curb on the other side of the street.  As the truck spun around after the crash, the right door flew open and Mrs. Beardsley was thrown violently out, a wheel resting across her legs.  So extremely severe was the nature of her injuries that little hope of her recovery was entertained from the first, but nothing was left undone, on the chance that her marvelous vitality might carry her through.  The end came Thursday shortly after noon.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Nov. 2, 1944]

Belgian Proclamation - 1944

Local Parents Receive Belgian Proclamation
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 26, 1944

Mr. and Mrs. Earl D. Clark received a letter from their son, Pfc. Earl D. Clark, Jr., who is in Germany, written Oct. 7, and enclosed was a copy of the proclamation issued by the liberated Belgians as a tribute to the Allied Forces, for making freedom possible in their country again.  The Proclamation was printed on yellow paper, 9 inches wide and 12-1/2 inches long, in black ink, and across the top and bottom of the sheet were red and black stripes.  The Proclamation follows:
 
Special Edition of Our Clandestin Paper, La Libre Belgique
(Short statements made by various statesmen in French)
 
You are our liberators and we are proud to cheer you!
WELCOME
 
On behalf of the people of Liege, "La Libre Belique" greets the soldiers of liberation!
 
For four long and painful years, we have waited impatiently but with unshakable confidence for this great moment where we could think, speak, and act again as we wish.  The people of Liege has suffered heavily, through his sufferings his love of liberty has become greater.
 
We knew that overseas thousand of young men were preparing for the final assault, which would open the road to glory and victory.  We honor the memories of the brave men who fell in the first and heaviest battles.  Their blood and that of our sons and brothers in May 1940 will not have been shed in vain.  Their memory shall live eternally in our hearts and we will confide their names and their example to the coming generations.
 
Now, Liege whose "Perron" symbolizes forever her love of liberty and the sacrifices of her people, Liege, the "Cite Ardente" is greeting, cheering and kissing you.  Gallant soldiers of liberty be welcome in our City on the very ground of liberty.
 
Fighting men of the United States of America and of Great Britain, you are our brothers, the heart of Liege considers you as its sons.  You are here at home, be in our little Fatherland as in your great Fatherland!
 
LONG LIVE LIBERTY and the HEROES who are bringing it back to us!
 
(on the opposite side of the sheet is the following)
 
WELCOME!



In the name of the people of Liege, the "Libre Belgique" cheers the soldiers who are coming to deliver us!

For the last four years, squashed, but not bent, under German boot, he waited impatiently, but with confidence, after the day he could breath again a pure and free air, think and talk as he wants to, in a word, find again with his liberty, the beauty of its town and the charm of his life.

The people of Liege has paid a heavy tribute, and their love of freedom has grown with it.  He knew that, for away, overseas, millions of young men, sons of liberty, enrolled under the Stars and Stripes or the union Jack, that the French forces of the interior were grouping for the final assault which was going to open the way to glory and victory.

Unfortunately! How many of those braves fell in the fight and hardest fights.  They sleep now in the liberated countries, side by side with our sons, our brothers which were in mai 40, the first workmen of the final victory.

We salute their heroism!  Their shedded blood, their sufferings, the gift of themselves won't be vain.  Because they died for us, their memory will live forever in our hearts.

Liege, the town so often Martyr, but always independent,
Liege, who's "Perron" symbolizes secularly Love of liberty and the people's sacrifice.
Liege the beautiful,
Liege the cheerful,
Liege, the "Ardent City,"
Liege salutes and cheers you.

Be welcome among us, soldiers of liberty on the land of liberty.  You are our brothers, because you have in your hearts the same, Ideal and the same Faith as we.

Soldiers of American and Great Britain, the heart of Liege receives you as his sons.  You are at home in our City.  Be here in our little land as in your native country.

Soldier News continued, 1944

Lt. Robert Smith Awarded Air Medal
Bainbridge News & Republican, November 2, 1944

Lieut. Robert F. Smith

Fifteenth AAF in Italy:  Lieut. Robert F. Smith, son of Mr. and Mrs. Fayette L. Smith of Route No. 1, Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], serving as a pilot on a B-24 Liberator, has been awarded the Air Medal "for meritorious achievement in aerial flight while participating in sustained operational activities against the enemy."  A former student of Bainbridge High School, he was employed by the American Separator Co., in Bainbridge, prior to his entry into the service, Dec. 14, 1942.

S/Sgt. John Rillo Awarded Citation
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 26, 1944

S/Sgt. John A. Rillo, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Rillo, Cadosia [Delaware Co., NY], has received a citation for outstanding gallantry against Japanese positions.  His citation has just been received by his parents from the Secretary of the Navy at Washington.

Cpl. Anne Elizabeth Passmore Killed in Line of Duty

Franklin churches united Sunday evening for a union memorial service in St. Paul's Episcopal Church in memory of Cpl. Anne Elizabeth Passmore, WAC, who was killed in line of duty Sept. 25.  Corporal Passmore was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Passmore, Franklin [Delaware Co., NY], and had served in the WAC for over two years.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, October 26, 1944]

Miss Elizabeth Passmore, 23, a WAC, was instantly killed in a plane crash Monday at Mitchel Field according to word received by her mother, Mrs. William Passmore of Franklin.  Her father, who is employed in the State of Washington, is flying to New Jersey and Mrs. Passmore and her son left for there yesterday.  According to word received by her mother, Miss Passmore was being flown to a new assignment at Mitchel Field where the plane crashed on landing.  She had been a member of the WAC for two years and was a radio technician.  Funeral and burial will be at Westford [sic*], N.J.  Surviving are her parents and a brother, William Passmore of Franklin.  [Binghamton Press, Sept. 27, 1944]  *Westford is incorrect.  She was buried is Westwood, N.J.

Wilson Francis Skinner Killed in Action

The United States Navy, in a communication to Mr. and Mrs. Frank Skinner of Susquehanna [PA], R.D.2, list their son, Wilson Francis Skinner, seaman second class, as killed in action on June 8, 1944, during the invasion of France.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Oct. 26, 1944]

Mr. and Mrs. Frank Skinner of Oakland have received a communication from the Navy Department that their son, Wilson F. Skinner, second class seaman, had been killed in action during the invasion of France on June 8, 1944.  The parents had previously received word that their son was missing.  The young sailor was 19 and a brother of Clifton Skinner who was killed in action with the American forces over Sicily July 13, 1943.  [Binghamton Press, Oct. 14, 1944]

Lt. Howard Bogart Receives Medal for Bravery

Lieut. Howard Bogart, with the signal corps in France, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Bogart, Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], has received a bronze medal for bravery under enemy fire.  Lieut. Bogart is a message sender.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Oct. 25, 1944]

Mr. and Mrs. George Bogart have received word that their son Lieut. Howard Bogart, has received a Bronze Medal for bravery under enemy fire.  He is with the Signal Corps in France, where he is message sender.  Lieutenant Bogart was a teacher in Cobleskill school before entering the service.  [Binghamton Press, Oct. 14, 1944]

 

Monday, December 8, 2014

Obituaries (December 8)

Death Notices - 1835
Chenango Telegraph, July 1, 1835
In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th ult., Mr. Zara Brewer, aged 36 years.
 
In Guilford, Chenango County, on the 27th ult., Capt. Elihu Murray, in the 82d year of his age, who retained his mind and faculties to his last moments--a Revolutionary soldier, who by his services contributed much to the achievement of our independence, and one of the oldest settlers of the Town of Guilford, who has left a large circle of friends and relatives to mourn their bereavement.
 
Chenango Telegraph, July 15, 1835
In Cincinnatus (Cortland co.) July 2, Mrs. Elizabeth C., wife of John W. Boyd, aged 23 years. 
Mrs. Boyd was amiable, kind, affectionate, and beloved by a large circle of friends.  She has left an aged and widowed mother, who leaned upon her to rock the cradle of declining years, and a youthful companion, with other friends.  Yet they do  not mourn as those who have no hope.  She has left a sweet evidence behind that their loss is her gain.  She died in the triumphs of faith.  In early youth she had given her heart to God and enlisted under his banner.  Ten months before her death, she was united in the bands of matrimony and looked forward to a life of usefulness.  But alas!  how deceitful are the hopes of earthly happiness!  Soon after her marriage, death visited the happy family and summoned two of her friends, and last he fixed his cruel grasp on her.  But she met him with a smile.  The morning before her death she wished her friends, if they thought her going soon, to let her know it.  In the afternoon they told her she must soon be in eternity.  She replied--Well, God will be just; I am reconciled to his will; my confidence is strong in Christ.  She then conversed freely with her friends, exhorting them to be faithful in the cause of Christ and they should soon meet in a better world.  She then closed her eyes, and in a few hours her spirit took its flight, we trust to the mansions of peace.
 
Susan Blanchard - 1877
Susan Blanchard, after a very brief illness, died at her residence in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] on the 23d ult., aged 54 years.. [Bainbridge Republican, Oct. 11, 1877]
 
Eunice S. Gilbert - 1878
Mrs. Eunice S. Gilbert after a lingering illness departed this life January 1st, at 9 P.M., like a shock of corn "fully ripe." Again has death entered this family and taken one from their number, and one more link is added to the chain drawing Heavenward.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 3, 1878]
 
William Kelley - 1878
On Wednesday morning the church bell tolled the death of William Kelley, aged 24 years.  He had been confined to the house for some months past with that dread disease, consumption.  Mr. Kelley was greatly respected, and we opine that "up there" it makes no difference on account of the color of the skin.  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 31, 1878]
 
Death Notices - 1877
Bainbridge Republican, November 15, 1877
PEARSALL:  In Coventryville [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 23, Mary Lena, daughter of Edgar and Maryette Pearsall, aged 6 years.
 
PIXLEY:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 4th, 1877, Gracie, only child of Saxa S. and Jennie E. Pixley, aged 21 months.
 
Nellie LePine Finch - 1944
Nellie LePine Finch, 58, wife of Guy Finch, of Sidney Center [Delaware Co., NY], died suddenly last Thursday from a heart attack.  Mrs. Finch, the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. William LePine, was born in Schenevus and came to Unadilla with her parents in 1886, where she resided until her marriage to Mr. Finch in 1912, and has since resided at Sidney Center.  Besides the husband she is survived by two sons, Bert, residing at home, and Frank, of Franklin, and one daughter, Mrs. Lottie Howland, of Oneonta.  Surviving also are a sister, Miss Lena J. LePine, of Oneonta, and three brothers, Frank W., of Binghamton, Joseph H., Yuba City, Calif., and George M., of Unadilla.  Funeral services were held at the late home Saturday.  Interment in Highland Hill Cemetery, Sidney Center.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, September 28, 1944]
 
Deaths of 1877 in Bainbridge and Vicinity Published in the Republican
Luman L. Lane, in his 31st year, Jan. 13.
Amelia Herrick, in her 34th year, Feb. 26.
Mary Cole, in her 16th year, Feb. 28.
Gideon Botsford in his 81st year, Mar. 17.
Wm. Sliter, in his 76th year, Mar. 19.
Aaron Booth, in his 81st year, April 20.
Joel Lyon, in his 51st year, April 25.
Henry Redfield, in his -- year, April 25.
Georgie Gilbert in her 2d year, Aug. 20.
Mary Fisher, in her 3d year, Aug. 22.
Edward H.P. Ireland, in his 44th year, Oct. 22.
John D. Ireland, in his 67th year, Dec. 7.
[Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 10, 1878]
 
 
 

Letter From T/5 Russell Struble in New Guinea - 1944

Letter from T/5 Russell Struble in New Guinea
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944

T/5 Russell W. Struble, of Baltimore, Md., nephew of Arthur Clarke and a former resident of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], writes a descriptive letter of New Guinea to his family.  Excerpts of the letter follow:
 
Well, after two days of hard work we have our tents pretty well set up.  It has been quite a job because we are perched up on the side of a hill.  I don't believe there is one square inch of level ground.  As I sit here in the tent I can look down in a narrow valley to a road which is heavy with traffic, but all military, as you might well expect.  We thought our former location was mountainous, but this is a diller.  There we were right on a bay, but here we are 12 miles back in the hills from the bay, and what a road it is!  You will remember the Storm King Highway, well this is very much like it, only there are no guard rails and it is dirt to boot.  Believe you me when the Yanks move into a place things really hum.  The engineers have done a marvelous job of road building here and all in a short time too.
 
As I said in last night's letter, we are attached to an advance Platoon of another Med. Depot Co.  At present we eat with them but will build our own mess hall, showers and latrine.  As soon as that is completed we will then go to work in the depot, which is what we came up here for.  They tell us there is less rain here.  The days are hot and the night very cool.  Guess that is because we are right in a mountainous jungle.  In fact, I don't believe there is any part of New Guinea but what is mountainous, but maybe there is level ground somewhere back in the interior.  As a matter of fact, we sit up from the valley and right in our rear it is almost straight up.  We only had to dig rain ditches on the upper side of our tents.  We live in squad tents (8 men to a tent) whereas our tents back where the rest of the Co is, are smaller and have 5 men in.  We miss our set-up there because we did have them fixed up almost like a home, but if we stay here long enough and can get lumber, we will have the same thing here.  We were permitted to bring our foot lockers.  We banded them with wire and included them in a shipment of Med. supplies that came here from the 37th Med. Dep. Co., and on the same boat with us.  The boat trip wasn't so good, as it was too crowded with other units, but we did get good food.  In fact, we had no place to sleep so just rolled up in a blanket any place we could find on the deck and then if it rained, which it did a couple of nights, we had to scramble below, which would already be crowded.  Anyhow we could snooze in the day time, play cards, or read, so all in all it wasn't too bad.  I did bring my mattress with me and I'm glad I did, because I don't think they have any of the (morine???) type here in this depot and they do help quite a bit on a cot even though they are nothing more than a thick pad.
 
By being able to bring a locker box, I could crowd it into my duffle bag (the mattress), which, with my box, went into the hold.  We carried only our toilet articles with us.  Didn't have a bath for seven days, but have had three good ones since getting here. We laid in the harbor two days and nights before our ship could get dock space.  Time out--must have some canned pineapple one of the boys swiped on the boat.  Had steak today for dinner.  My appetite has been ravenous these past two days. This outdoor life sure makes a person eat and sleep. Got our generator going today and the tents wired and have one 25 watt bulb tonight but will have more tomorrow. We are veterans now at setting up, so it doesn't take long.  However, we will have to haul our water for washing and all purposes.  I don't know exactly what my job will be here, once we start operating, but expect it will be the same.  Will have to put up warehouses as a lot of the supplies are now outside under tarpaulins.  The warehouses have roofs only and the structure is all cut to size and are part of regular equipment.  Can be executed in a very short period of time--Are put together with bolts and can be taken down in a jiffy--they have corrugated tin roofs.
 
There is a movie down the road a short ways.  I can see the screen from where I sit.  It is connected with a general hospital.  Can also see a stockade from here with lights all around.  It's said there are Jap prisoners there.  Just 300 years to the left and the other side of our mess hall is a cemetery in which are buried Japs as well as Americans and others, but there are no live Japs here unless they are way back in the hills starving to death.
 
Have seen a good bit of the American Navy and plenty else I would like to tell you, but seeing as how I can't give my location, it will have to wait until I see you.
 
Some of the boys lost their duffle bags and lockers.  It took two days and a night to unload the boat I was on, which work of hauling and unloading is done by port battalions and as this place is so big, because there are so many different outfits here, the stuff was mixed in with other unit's and now we can't tell where they have gone.  Everything had our code number on but they seem to have vanished into thin air.  Fortunately my bag and locker arrived here safely, but Plozar lost his locker in which he had a camera, fountain pen and other personal items.  All G.I. stuff will be replaced free, but he will be out his personal stuff unless our officers can locate the outfit that got them.  Incidentally, Plozar and myself were the only ones in our tent that was selected for the advance.  Wade, Zimmerman and Gonzales stayed behind.  I'm glad that I got to come because it was getting pretty monotonous there and they many be stuck there for the duration.  Here it is something new and once we get over the rough spots of setting up and organized, it will be just as good, if not better.  I would like to go to the Philippines, or even China.  Might as well see as much as I can while I am out here.
 
We have three radios with us and one of the fellows just came in and said that the Yanks are 18 miles from the German border.  From what I can judge, it won't be long before it will be over in Europe, and then the heat will really be turned on over here.
 
From 9/9...........This is a quiet evening in New Guinea.  Most of the boys are sitting round shooting the breeze and writing letters.  There is no show down the road and we have no conveyances to go any place such as a Red Cross Center or another movie.  Besides, it hasn't rained for several days and the roads are terrible.  Some of the boys that do have to go out come back literally covered with dust.  I thought I might go up to the airport tomorrow.  Understand there is quite a bit to see, such as bombers going out on missions, etc.  Heard that there was a dance somewhere around but presume there would be about 1,000 men to every WAC.
 
Did I tell you that we just missed Bob Hope?  They left here the day before we arrived.  Did want to see his show.  No doubt he will have something to say about his trip out here when he returns to the air in the States and Jack Benny will no doubt mention it also.  I did see his show back at our base.
 
....Had steak again today and home made cake!  Quite some difference from what we have been accustomed to.
 
....Had an uneventful day.  Watched the engineers excavating and putting up a prefabricated frame.  Those boys sure do know their business.
 
 
 
 
 


Soldier News continued, 1944

Lt. Malcolm MacGregor Missing in Action
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944

Mr. and Mrs. Ernest C. MacGregor, of Delhi [Delaware Co., NY], have been advised by the War Department that their only son, First Lieut. Malcom MacGregor, 21, is listed as missing in action over Germany.  In a telegram from the Adjutant General's office, Mr. and Mrs. MacGregor were informed that their son's airplane, a B-24 Liberator, failed to return from a mission over Germany on Sept. 27, Lieutenant MacGregor was a bombardier.  Lieutenant MacGregor had only three more missions to complete before he would have been eligible for a leave.  In a recent letter to his parents, he mentioned that he expected to be home before Christmas.  His engagement to Miss Elizabeth Evenden, of Delhi, was announced a few months ago.
 
Robert McNeil helps save A&P Canning Plant
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944
 
Robert D. McNeil, 24, 29 Court street, Norwich, F 2/C, at the United States Naval Training Center at Sampson, recently volunteered to help save Western New York's tomato pack, half of which had been allocated to the armed forces.  The Chenango County sailor, who has completed boot training, was among the volunteers released by the Navy on special leaves to ease the manpower shortage at the A&P canning plant in Brockport.  The Navy men lived at a Rochester hotel, received regular wages and were transported daily by bus to the plant for work.  The Navy men worked side by side with regular employees, school and college students, housewives, business men and war workers who are volunteering either part time or full time during the four-week peak period of the pack.  More than 4,000,000 bottles of ketchup are expected to be packed at this plant alone for the armed forces.
 
Sgt. Elmer Lowe Killed in Action
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944
 
Mrs. Ernest E. Lowe received a message Saturday morning, Oct. 7, stating that her son, Gy. Sgt. Elmer E. Lowe, had been killed in action in the Southern Pacific.  He was the son of the late Ernest E. Lowe and Katharine Kent Lowe, and was born May 12, 1911, at Sherman, Pa.  The family moved to Deposit [Delaware Co., NY] in March, 1919.  Sgt. Lowe graduated from the Deposit High School in June, 1929.  He was active in sports, being a member of the basketball team.  After his graduation, he was employed by the Prudential Insurance Company, of Newark, N.J., from July, 1929, until his enlistment in the USMC, on Oct. 28, 1940.  During this period he gained well-deserved promotions and advancements in the office where he worked.  Sgt. Lowe completed his training, after enlistment, at Parris Island and left for overseas duty April 6, 1942.  He held the rank of corporal, sergeant, platoon sergeant, and gunnery sergeant.  His four-year enlistment would have been completed this month.  He was a member of the Y.M.C.A. in Newark, and a member of the First Presbyterian Church and Sunday School of Deposit.  He is survived, besides his mother, by a sister, Lieut. Emily Lowe, A.N., of Fort Slocum; a brother, Russell K. Lowe, of New Berlin; a nephew, Russell K. Lowe, Jr., and a niece, Susanne Lowe. The deepest sympathy of the entire community is extended to Mrs. Lowe and her family in the loss of a faithful, trustworthy son and brother.
 
Pvt. Kenneth Meader Cited for Bravery
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944
 
Private Kenneth Meader, rifleman, of Hancock [Delaware Co., NY], recently was authorized to wear the Distinguished Unit Badge as one in a company of 85th "Custer" Division infantrymen who held a strategically important hill against severe attacks of a numerically superior enemy on the 5th Army front in Italy.  Lieut. Gen. Mark W. Clark, 5th Army commander, presented streamers to the company, identifying it as having been awarded the Distinguished Unit Citation.  Private Meader is the son of Mrs. Anna Meader, of Hancock.  He attended the Hancock High School and entered service in June, 1943.
 
S/Sgt. John N. Hill Returns After 55 Missions in Pacific
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944
 
S/Sgt. John N. Hill, after serving 14 months in the South Pacific as an aerial engineer on a B-24 Bomber, arrived in the States Sept. 28, and came to Bainbridge Monday night to spend a few days.  Staff Sergeant Hill wears the Air Medal with two Silver Clusters, the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon with three Bronze Stars, the Good Conduct Medal, and a Presidential Citation for first raid over Truk.  He has completed 55 missions, all were made in the same plane that the crew left the States in, "Pistol Packin' Mamma."  This veteran plane is credited with being the fastest plane in the group and has 8 Jap planes to her credit.  John has one plane to his credit. On one of the missions over Truk, the nose turret of the plane was shot away, 94 holes were counted in the gas tanks, No. 2 propeller was bent like a cork screw, and a shell hit the side of the plane, knocking down most of the crew, however, "Pistol Packin' Mama" returned ot her base.  Staff Sergeant Hill has taken part in missions, besides Truk, over Tabaul, Palau, Admiralty Islands, Guadalcanal, Munda and many other targets.
 
Pfc. William Wagner Awarded Purple Heart
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944
 
Mrs. Alta DeForest Wagner has received the Purple Heart Medal for her husband, Private First Class William Wagner, who was killed in France June 30.  Also a Memorial signed by President Roosevelt.

S/Sgt. Harry Smith Wounded in Action
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 19, 1944

Mr. and Mrs. Clair Smith, of Greenlawn avenue [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], received a telegram from the War Department Saturday, Oct. 7, stating that their son, S/Sgt. Harry M. Smith, had been wounded in action Sept. 22, in Holland.  On Monday of this week, they received a letter written by a Red Cross worker, saying he was able to move his arm some, also that his other wounds were healing nicely.  He stated further that he has been awarded the Purple Heart Medal which he has sent home.
 

Sunday, December 7, 2014

Post Listing, December 1-7, 2014

Listing of blog postings for the week of December 1-7, 2014.

Marriages
Posted December 1, 2014
Charles Sherwood - Anna Esterbrooks (1880)
Grace Sherwood - Fred Norris (1891/2)
Dorothy Ann Truman - Clifford D. McNitt (1942)
Grace Slabey - Arthur Roys

Posted December 2, 2014
O.D. Merchant - Mary Harris (1879)
Edward A. Lally - Hattie E. Wade (1890)
William Lally - Luella Nash (1890)
Edith Woolsey - Frank G. Mackin (1944)

Posted December 5, 2014
Gilbert Palmer - Ella Marsh (1877)
Henry Elmandorf - Mary Lewis (1877)
Eugene Smith - Miss Wedge (1877)
Homer Parsons - Ida Corey )1877)
Marriage Notices - 1877
     Theodore C. Hutchinson (Guilford) - Nettie L. Ives (Bainbridge)
     William Houghton (Bainbridge) - Nellie E. Price (Binghamton)
     Matthew F. Smith (Coventry) - Carrie A. Cone (South Oxford)
     John A. Parker - Jennie E. Bradley (Guilford)
     Albert Davis - Helen Weeks (Bainbridge)
     Albert C. Derby - E. Melissa Easton (Afton)
     Charles m. Sheldon (Deavenport Centre) - Deliah A. Hawkins (Vallonia Springs)
     Silas A. Pindar - Ellen A. Ward (Masonville)

Posted December 7, 2014
Rodman Bates - Phebe Wilcox (1877)
George W. Parker - Jennie Stockwell (1877)
Walter H. Bennett - Hattie M. Williams (1877)
Marriage Notices - 1877
     E.O. Wadsworth (Unadilla) - Julia A. Burris (East Guilford)
     Harvey D. Parsons - Libbie Burris (East Guilford)
     Olin T. Angel (Guilford) - Abbie J. Sage (South New Berlin)
     George E. Willett - Annie A. Stott (Afton)
     Henry C. Yaple - Christina L. Horton (Sanford)
     Clarence E. Pinney - DeFrancey E. Rowe (Colesville)
     Dr. I.J. Whitney (Masonville) - Amanda M. Jackson (Trout Creek)
     Edwin L. Garlick (Creek Settlement) - Emma F. Donalson (North Sanford)
     Eugene Demonie - Ida B. Smith (Deposit)
     
Obituaries
Posted December 1, 2014
Ada Sherwood (Bainbridge, 1886)
Florence A. Sherwood (Guilford, 1893)
Mrs. N.L. Sherwood (Guilford, 1894)00 
Lavinia (Bennett) Sherwood (Walton, Bainbridge, 1916)
William Wallace Sherwood (Walton, 1929)  Civil War Veteran
Gilbert Sherwood (Unadilla, Walton, Bainbridge, 1929)

Posted December 2, 2014
Mary Lewis (Yaleville, McDonough, 1879)
Albert C. Latham (Guilford, Norwich, 1883
William Barr (Brooklyn, Guilford, 1894)
Amos Alcott (Guilford, 1894)
Archie J. McEschern (Toronto, Canada, 1894)

Posted December 3, 2014
Franklin C. Payne (Bainbridge, 1932)
Death Notices
     Clara S. Morse (Oxford, 1873)
     Mary Ann Lobdell (Oxford, 1873)
     Dr. Elias Whittlesy (Durham, 1873)
     Daniel Clark (Masonville, 1873)
     Alvah C. Bush, 2d (Tioga, PA, 1876)
     Abel Rathbone Corbin (Oxford, 1876)
     Anna Rogers (Oxford, 1876)
     Mary J. Loomis (Norwich, 1876)
     Hiram Bennett (Bennettsville, 1876)
     Nathan St. John (Afton, 1876)
     Martin Post (Afton, 1877)
     Aaron Booth (West Bainbridge, 1877)

Posted December 4, 2014
Mrs. Samuel Humphrey  (1877)
Charles R. Humphrey (Guilford, 1877)
Hannah (Stowell) Bixby (Bainbridge, 1885)
Ziba Winsor (Norwich, White Store, 1883)
Death Notices - 1835
     Gerrit H. Van Wagenen (Oxford)
     Catharine M. Thompson (Sherburne)

Posted December 5, 2014
Mrs. A. Shepardson (Smyrna, 1878)
William Eaton (1877)
Mrs. John Griffin (Sherburne, Preston, 1927)
Mrs. David Schultz (Sidney Plains, 1877)
Mrs. Alvin Northrup (Sidney Plains, 1877)
Frank B. Gilbert (Bainbridge,  Albany, 1927)
Minnie Christian (Sherburne, 1927)

Posted December 6, 2014
Sullivan Reynolds (Butternuts, 1883)
David Roberts (Rockdale, 1904)
Mary Ann Rivers (East Guilford, 1910)
Julia Lucille Brandt (Walton, 1944)
Mary Mulford (Unadilla, 1944)
Leroy Entrott (Sidney Center, 1944)

Posted December 7, 2014
Daughter of Edgar Pearsall (Wilkins Settlement, 1877)
Son of Mr. Benjamin (1877)
Elizabeth Birdsall Ely (New Berlin, 1877)
Lewy Squires (Milford, 1877)
Lizzie Pettit (Babylon, LI, 1877)
Death Notices - 1877
     Fanny Chittenden (Sidney Plains)
     Joseph D. Vanalstine (Afton)
     Oliver Leach (Holmesville, South New Berlin)

 
Miscellaneous
Posted December 1, 2014
Soldier News continued, 1944
     Anthony Plosky Awarded Purple Heart
     S/Sgt. Warren Davy Removes Wounded from Tinian
     Sgt. Donald Moseman Wounded in Action in France
     S/Sgt. Carleton Swartz Loses Right Hand in New Guinea
     Pfc. Arthur Tuskey, Jr. Seriously Wounded in Guam
     1st Lt. James Burrhus, Jr. Killed in Action in France
     Letter from Rolland Peckham

Posted December 2, 2014
Soldier News continued, 1944
     1st Lt. Donald Patchen Receives Citations
     Lt. Howard L. Archer, Jr. Wounded in Action at Saipan
     Pfc. John Moran Killed in Action
     Norman S. Decker Killed Action in France
     Marion Doi is WAC Specialist
     Myron Carl is Member of Combat Team
A Gala Day with the Shippeys - 1883

Posted December 3, 2014
Soldier News continued, 1944
     Pfc. Roland Prat Wounded Second Time
     T. Cpl. Henry Soules Takes Part in Army Experiment
     Cpl. Louis Finch Arrives in the Mediterranean Theater
     Letter from Doris Stead in France
Bainbridge Central High School, Class of 1942

Posted December 4, 2014
Soldier News continued, 1944
     Recent War Fatalities
          Jack Kaplan Killed in France
          Charles Ingram Killed in Italy
          S/Sgt Richard O. McCarthy Killed in France
          Samuel A. Travis Killed in France
          Sgt. Lee Powell Killed in South Pacific (played Lone Ranger in movies)
     Sgt. Howard W. Jeffrey, Jr. Completes Orientation Command
     Pvt. William Smith Award Presidential Unit Citation
Letter from Doris Stead in France - August 1944
Stoddard Family Reunion - 1884

Posted December 5, 2014
Soldier News continued, 1944
     Lt. Leonard Tompkins Missing Over Saipan
     Lt. Ralph Owens Missing in Action over Hungary
     S/Sgt. Charles Helm Killed Action in France
     Pfc. Anthony Amitrano Killed in Action in France
     Pvt. Stanley Welton Dies of Wounds
     S/Sgt. Victor Foster Wins Commendation

Posted December 6, 2014
Soldier News continued, 1944
     Pfc. Roscoe Hull Killed in Action
     Pvt. William H. Nichols Missing in Action in Belgium
     S/Sgt. Robert C. Schaffer, Killed in action in France
     Helen Clark Averill Commissioned Lt in WAVES
     Pfc. Hayes C. French Awarded Purple Heart
     Lt. Edwin L. Holloway Arrives at Redistribution Station
     Howard Jeffrey, Jr. Promoted
BCHS Junior Class in 1941 - Class of 1942

Posted December 7, 2014
Soldier News continued, 1944
     Pvt. Edward M. Craig Killed in Action in France
     Pvt. Douglas A. Bailey Appears on WAC Poster
     E.H. Dedrick Receives Promotion to Major
     S/Sgt. Gordon M. Packer Receives Citation
     Louis W. Finch Receives Promotion to Sergeant
     Donald Patchen's Mother Receives His Decorations

Marriages (December 7)

Bates - Wilcox
Rodman Bates, aged 82, of Amenia [Dutchess Co., NY], and Mrs. Phebe Wilcox of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 68, were married in Dutchess county, recently.  He was groomsman at her wedding fifty years ago.
 
Parker - Stockwell
On Friday evening of last week a very quiet wedding came off at the residence of Mr. R.C. Stockwell.  The Parties were Mr. George W. Parker, and one of Mr Stockwell's daughters, Jennie.  Only a few of the nearest friends were invited.  The nuptial ceremony was performed by Rev. N.S. Reynolds at 5 o'clock p.m., after which a reception was given, and at 7 o'clock the parties took up their abode in their own house, near the residence of the bride's parents, which had already been furnished by the groom, and went immediately to keeping house, instead of taking a bridal tour.  We congratulate the newly married couple, and wish them a long and prosperous voyage through life.  Ye printers were duly remembered.  [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 15, 1877]
 
Bennett - Williams
The Denver, Colorado Tribune of Saturday, Oct. 27 says:  "A very quiet wedding took place last evening at the Alvord House, the contracting parties being Mr. Walter H. Bennett, of Greeley, Colorado, and Miss Hattie M. Williams, of Hamilton, Mo., Rev. J.R. Eads of the M.E. Church officiating.  Mr. Bennett is a promising young lawyer whose advent into the elysian fields of matrimony will give joy to this friends.  Miss Williams is of fine appearance, possessed of all the gentle graces, and came from her home, arriving here Thursday to bestow herself upon her chosen liege."  Mr. Bennett was formerly a student in the law office of Henry A. Clark in this village [Bainbridge Chenango Co., NY] and will be remembered by many of our town's people. They will make Greeley, Colorado, their home.  [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 22, 1877]
 
Marriage Notices - 1877
Bainbridge Republican, November 29, 1877
WADSWORTH - BURRIS:  At the Baptist Parsonage, Bainbridge, Nov. 14, 1877, by Rev. D.C. Haynes, E.O. Wadsworth, of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], and Miss Julia A. Burris, of East Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].
 
PARSONS - BURRIS:  At the Baptist Parsonage, Bainbridge, Nov. 14, 1877, by Rev. D.C. Haynes, Harvey D. Parsons and Miss Libbie Burris, both of East Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].
 
Bainbridge Republican, November 8, 1877
ANGELL - SAGE:  In South New Berlin, Oct. 22d, by Rev. J.H. Boyce, Mr. Olin T. Angell of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Abbie J. Sage, of South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].
 
WILLETT - STOTT:  In Norwich, Oct. 29th, by Rev. Mr. Haynes, Mr. George E. Willett to Miss Annie A. Stott, both of Afton [Chenango Co., NY].
 
YAPLE - HORTON:  Sanford [Broome Co., NY], at the home of the bride, by Rev. H.N. Van Deusen, Oct. 30th, 1877, Mr. Henry C. Yaple to Mrs. Christina L. Horton, both of Sanford, N.Y.
 
PINNEY - ROWE:  At the residence of the bride's father on Perch Pond Hill Oct. 24th, by the Rev. H.N. Van Deusen, Mr. Clarence E. Pinney to Miss DeFrancey E. Rowe, both of Colesville, N.Y. [Broome Co., NY].
 
WHITNEY - JACKSON:  At Trout Creek P.O. Oct. 24th, by Rev. Newman Heroy, Dr. I.J. Whitney of Masonville, N.Y. [Delaware Co., NY] and Miss Amanda M. Jackson of Trout Creek, P.O. [Delaware Co., NY]
 
GARLICK - DONALSON:  At the M.E. Parsonage, McClure Settlement, Oct. 17th, by the Rev. S.W. Spencer, Mr. Edwin L. Garlick, of Creek Settlement, and Miss Emma F. Donalson, of North Sanford, Broome County, N.Y.

DEMONIE - SMITH:  At Days Hotel, Bainbridge, Nov. 4th, 1877, by Rev. N .S. Reynolds, Mr. Eugene Demonie and Miss Ida B. Smith, all of Deposit [Broome Co., NY].

Obituaries (December 7)

Daughter of Edgar Pearsall - 1877
 

The funeral of a little daughter of Edgar Pearsall took place on Sunday last.  She died from the effects of typhoid fever. [Bainbridge Republican, November 8, 1877]
 
Son of Mr. Benjamin - 1877
 
On Friday of last week a boy about 13 years of age, a son of Mr. Benjamin, a farmer living about two miles above the village, was accidentally killed while dragging a piece of newly plowed ground on a side hill on the back part of his father's farm.  The drag got caught by striking on a root with such force as to pull the horse over backwards, and falling on the boy, crushed him to death.  When found by a neighbor the horse was unable to get up until detached from the drag and rolled over.  It is supposed the boy had been dead several hours when discovered.  [Bainbridge Republican, November 8, 1877]
 
Elizabeth Birdsall Ely - 1877
 
Mrs. Elizabeth Birdsall Ely, who died at New Berlin [Chenango Co.,  NY] on the 5th inst., was a granddaughter of Col. Birdsall, of Revolutionary fame and sister of Maj. Benjamin Birdsall, who was shot, at Albany, in 1818.  Her husband the late Hon. Noah Ely, was at one time a very prominent citizen of this county, and was a member of the Assembly in 1832--Telegraph [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 22, 1877]
 
Lewy Squires - 1877
 
On the 23d of November, Lewy Squires, of Milford, Otsego county, a boy about 7 years old, was shot and instantly killed by Foster Seabolt, a boy about 15 years old.  It appears that the boy whose life was terminated so suddenly was looking through the crack of a door at Seabolt, who was on the inside.  The boys had been playing there some time.  Possibly the public will ask how the shooting could be accidental when the young man Seabolt was aware that the little Squires boy was playing with him on the outside. The Coroner's jury brought in a verdict of shot by accident.  There will nothing short of a searching legal investigation , instituted for that purpose, to satisfy the public mind in relation to this matter.  Milford is becoming historic for mysterious and accidental deaths, and it would be gratifying to those who have families of small children to know whether dangerous weapons are to be placed in the hands of those who either from a wicked heart or grouch culpable negligence cause the death of these little ones.  [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 29, 1877]
 
Lizzie Pellit - 1877
 
Pettit:  In Babylon, L.I., Nov. 16, 1877, Lizzie wife of Clifton Petitt, aged 24 years.
 
On Friday the 16th inst. at her late home in Babylon, L.I., Mrs. Clifton Pettit, eldest daughter of Mrs. Elizabeth Bicknell of that place, and granddaughter of Mrs. E. Bishop of Bainbridge, N.Y. [Chenango Co.].  The death of this dear girl has awakened in the hearts of all her friends a deep sorrow and sympathy for the bereaved ones, such as is rarely shown.  Beautiful in character, as in person, she leaves behind her the fragrance of a life of love; and we feel the better for having known her.  The truth of these familiar lines forces itself upon us:
"'Tis better to have loved and lost,
Than never to have loved at all."
As a daughter she was ever loving and thoughtful, proving herself a comfort in the days of her mother's widowhood, smoothing rough places and partaking of the care and anxiety which falls to a mother's lot.  As a dear sister, the remembrance of her sweet offices of love will never be forgotten; and as a wife, she has left a void in the heart of one which time can never heal.  One year ago a happy bride, crowned with love and joyful anticipations, stepping tenderly and eagerly from the light of a mother's home' she had taken, as it were, but one step in the shadowy, uncertain future, when "Israfil"-angel of death-gently pressed the eyelids closed, and placing her babe on its mother's breast, bore them both away in his sheltering arms. We can only remember that our Heavenly Father chastened in love, and not in anger; he is tender and merciful, and wounds not one of us unwittingly.
"He walks with us, that Angel kind,
And gently whispers 'be resigned.'
Bear up, bear on, the end shall tell.
The dear lord ordereth all things well."
[Bainbridge Republican,  Nov. 29, 1877]
 
Death Notices
Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 29, 1877
CHITTENDEN:  In Sidney Plains [Delaware Co., NY], Nov. 13, 1877, Mrs. Fanny Chittenden, aged 54 years.
 
Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 8, 1877
VANALSTINE:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 26th, 1877, Joseph D. Vanalstine, of typhoid fever, aged 46 years.
 
LEACH:  At Holmesville, Chenango County, N.Y. Oct. 30, 1877, Mr. Oliver Leach, in his 68th year.  Mr. Leach was formerly from Bridgewater, Mass.  He came to South New Berlin, Chenango county, N.Y., in 1838.
 
 

Soldier News continued, 1944

Pvt. Edward Craig Killed in Action
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 12, 1944

Another Delaware County soldier, Private Edward M. Craig, of Roxbury, has been killed in action in France, according to the latest casualty lists released by the War Department.  Private Craig, who was killed on Aug. 15, was the second son of the Rev. and Mrs. David A. Craig to lose his life in World War II.  His brother, Tech, Sgt. Samuel L. Craig, was killed in England last Dec. 25.  A Presbyterian minister at Hamden for 20 years, Mr. Craig retired and moved to Roxbury after the death of his first son.  Private Edward Craig served at Camp Adair, Ore., before being assigned to overseas duty around three months ago.  Surviving are his wife, who resides in New York City; his parents; two brothers, Lieut. William C. Craig, who is serving in Nebraska as a bomb and navigation instructor, and David Craig, Jr., stationed in the Aleutians; and a sister, Miss Betty Craig, a member of the school faculty at Walton.
 
Pvt. Douglas Bailey Appears on WAC Poster
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 12, 1944
 
Home with a fractured leg after seven months of service with the Coast Artillery in England, Private Douglas A. Bailey, gunner of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], is pictured in this month's WAC Magazine getting X-rayed through his plaster cast!  Manipulating the complicated mechanism is Private First Class Clara King, of Cottageville, W.Va.  Private King enlisted in the Women's Army Corps on May 22, 1943.  She received her basic training at Daytona Beach Fla.  Then, because of her two and one-half years of nurse training, she was assigned to Halloran General Hospital to work in the isolation ward.  Last November she was chosen to attend the Army X-ray technician school where she was given a thorough and specialized training in X-ray work.  She not only prepares the patients for treatment and manipulates the switch which controls the duration and intensity of exposure, but also develops and dries X-ray film.  Army doctors, of course, make the actual interpretations from the X-ray plates and diagnose accordingly.  Those trained in it stand on the threshold of important and promising careers.  A picture of Pvt. Bailey appears on the WAC poster on display in the Bainbridge News window.
 
Emerson Dedrick Promoted
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 12, 1944
 
Major E.H. Dedrick, USMC
 
Marine Major Emerson H. Dedrick, 25, a veteran of 11 months' service in the Southwest Pacific and son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert C. Dedrick, South Side, Oneonta [Otsego Co., NY], has been promoted to that rank at the Marine Corps Air Station, Mojave, Calif.  He is serving with a Corsair fighter squadron there. A native of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Major Dedrick was graduated from Oneonta High School and the University of Iowa.  He entered Marine Aviation in May, 1941, and won his wings and commission in January, 1942.  He served in the Solomon Islands, leading a division of fighter planes, and is credited officially with shooting down two Zeros, sinking five oil barges and helping to sink two destroyers.  Major Dedrick assisted in providing air support on the first bombing run made over Bougainville, and flew numerous strafing missions.  He holds the Air Medal and Presidential Unit Citation.
 
S/Sgt Gordon Packer Receives Award
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 12, 1944
 
With the Fifth Army, Italy:  Staff Sergeant Gordon M. Packer, of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], brother of Wesson Packer, of Bainbridge, has been cited by his regiment of the 88th Infantry Division and awarded the Combat Infantry Badge for actual participation in combat with the enemy on the Fifth Army front in Italy.  Standards for the badge are high.  The decoration, which was recently authorized by the War Department, is awarded to the infantry soldier who has proved his fighting ability in combat.  The handsome badge consists of a silver rifle set against a background of infantry blue, enclosed in a silver wreath.

 
Louis Finch Promoted
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 12, 1944
 
15th AAF in Italy:  Louis W. Finch, R.D.2, Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], waist gunner on a B-24 Liberator bomber, has been promoted recently to the rank of sergeant.  The announcement was made by Col. Robert E.L. Eaton, Belleville, Ill.  Sgt. Finch has participated in major attacks on such strategic targets as the Szolnok Railroad, Hungary, the Szeged Railroad, Hungary, and other important targets in Austria, Germany and Italy.  His veteran bomb group has twice been cited for "outstanding performance of duty in armed conflict with the enemy."  After graduation from Deposit Central High School, Sgt. Finch was employed as a machinist for Casein Co.  He entered the Army on Jan. 29, 1943, and received his training at the Buckley Field armorer school, Colo., and the Harlingen gunnery school, Tex.  Sgt. Finch's wife, Mrs. Doris Finch, lives at the Bainbridge address.  His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Finch, live at R.D.1, Afton.
 
Citation for Lt. Donald Patchen
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 12, 1944
 
When 11 wives and mothers of Central New York Army fliers received decorations at the Syracuse Army Air Base last week Thursday, one of the mothers was Mrs. Earl V. Benedict, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].  Following the awards presented by Col. A.W. Martenstein, commanding the Rome Air Service Command, as Lt. Col. Harry P. Galligher, commanding officer of the Syracuse Air Base, read the citations, the wives and mothers of the fliers were honored at a formal retreat on the parade grounds. The women, wearing the decorations, were members of the reviewing party.  Each lady was escorted by an officer of the same rank as the recipient of the medal at the time the citation was awarded, Mrs. Benedict being attended by 2nd Lieut, Cohen, of Seattle, Wash.  Mrs. Benedict received the Air Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters for her son, 1st Lieut. Donald J. Patchen, who is a war prisoner in Germany.  One of the mothers, Mrs. Alice Dmoch, of 401 Boyden street, Syracuse, had been notified just before going to the Air Base that her son, T/Sgt. Thaddeus S. Dmoch, previously reported missing in action, had been killed.  While in Syracuse, Mr. and Mrs. Benedict were guests of their sister, Mrs. Nina E. Baker.


Saturday, December 6, 2014

BCHS Junior Class in 1941

Bainbridge Central School Junior Class in 1941
Class of 1942
"Echo" 1941
 
Below is the Bainbridge Central High School Junior Class photo taken for the 1941 "Echo."  These students would be the Class of 1942.  Pictured are 29 students, 16 of whom would be in the 1942 graduating class.  This significant attrition can be attributed, at least in part, to young men who left school to enlist in the armed forces in the early days of World War II.
 
 
First Row (L to R):  Ethelyn Smith, Doris Bender, Marion Cudworth*, Mr. Baker, Miss Evans, Robert Hitchcock*, Louella Weeks*, Juanita James, Leona Snow
 
Second Row (L to R):  Carmalina Delello*, Edith Preston, Ethel Meade*, Ona Sisson, Jean Bacon*, Daisy Sites*, Anna Sites*, Guyva Bradish*, Elaine Risedorph, Shirley Bradish*, Mary Lou Branham*, Lillian Moore*, Elaine Barre*.
 
Third Row (L to R):  Lawrence Getter*, Francis De Long, Andrew Sejersen, Jr., Kenneth Kingsley, Danforth Knight*, Newton Bliss*, Walter Parsons, Jack Hawkins, Leon Mott**.
 
* 1942 graduates.
**Leon Mott left school to join the Navy early in the war and was lost on the Destroyer Strong, July 5, 1943, in the southwest Pacific.
 


Obituaries (December 6)

Sullivan Reynolds - 1883
 
Sullivan Reynolds died in Butternuts, Otsego Co., N.Y., May 16th, 1883, aged 74 years.  The subject of this sketch was born in Guilford, Chenango Co., N.Y., where his parents moved some eighty-four years before, from Rhode Island.  he belonged to a family of five sons and two daughters, only one of whom survives him, the Widow Burdick, of Guilford Centre, N.Y.  He was a man of stern integrity, and of a meek and quiet spirit, which made him a good neighbor, a good citizen, a kind husband, a loving father, and won for him many friends who will greatly miss him as time goes by.  It became evident to his children that for some time before his death he thought his end was nigh, for he seemed to be carefully arranging all his business matters, by sorting all of his papers and repacking and labeling them, throwing unimportant ones away, so that all matters pertaining to his estate might be clearly understood by his children who might survive him.  He read his Bible much during this time, which is evidence that while he was arranging his earthly concerns, he was also preparing for that world to which he was so soon to go.  This all done, he laid his glasses by his papers, and soon after took a fever, which ended in a disease of the lungs, which terminated his life on earth.  His three sons will greatly miss him, but they will find great comfort in the fact that they can think of nothing but good towards them in the long life of their father who has left them behind, and gone on to join his companion, and their mother, on eternity's shore. The floral display seen in his beautiful home, on the banks of the Unadilla, and the ripe sheaf of wheat which laid on his casket, were emblematical of his mature life, and the ever green shore to which we have no doubt all who knew him believe he has gone.--Plains, Pa., May 26, 1883, N.S Reynolds.  [Chenango Union, May 31, 1883]
 
David Roberts - 1904
 
David Roberts died suddenly of heart disease at Rockdale [Chenango Co., NY] on Saturday morning.  Deceased first came to this vicinity last spring, and for some time lived alone in K.D. Wheeler's sap house.  He was a species of tramp and traveled when on the road as an umbrella mender.  Before going to Rockdale he lived in Mt. Upton a short time in the Sage meat market.  He was a regular attendant at church both there and at Rockdale, where he took up his residence in the vacant sugar of milk factory which he has occupied since.  He died in the road, while going to a wood lot on R.G. Truesdell's place. The body was removed to his room and Coroner Spencer of Guilford notified. As his death was witnessed by a man who was  short distance behind him when he fell in the road, an inquest was deemed unnecessary--Otsego Journal  [Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, Feb. 27, 1904]
 
Mary Ann Rivers - 1910
 
The death of Mrs. Mary A. Rivers of East Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] occurred here at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Alvin Sherwood, where she was visiting.  She was returning from a visit to her sons in Oxford. She was sick while there, but became worse after reaching her daughter's and passed away early New Year's morning, having nearly passed to the close of her 80th year.  Besides the daughter, three sons, Charles of Oxford, Ellsworth of Belden and James of East Guilford survive her.  The funeral was attended from the home of Mr. and Mrs. Sherwood at 13 o'clock Monday, Rev. A.C. Salls of the Congregational church officiating.  Interment was made at Sidney [Delaware Co., NY].  [Norwich Sun, Jan. 6, 1910]
 
Julia Lucille Brandt - 1944

Miss Julia Lucille Brandt died Friday at her home in Walton [Delaware Co. NY].  She was born April 8, 1885, daughter of Douglas and Jessie Brandt.  Principal of Miller avenue school, she had taught in Walton for 25 years.  [Bainbridge News & Republican, Oct. 5, 1944]

Mary Mulford - 1944

The death of Mrs. Mary Mulford, aged 85 years, occurred on Wednesday, Sept. 27, at her home in Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY].  She recently suffered a fall in which her hip was broken.  Mrs. Mulford is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Lynn Foster Peck, and two grandsons.  Her husband, George W. Mulford, died some years ago.
 
Leroy Entrott - 1944
 
Leroy Entrott died at his home on Amner Hill Sidney Center [Delaware Co., NY], Wednesday morning, Sept. 27.  He had been ill of heart trouble for the past two years.  Mr. Entrott was born at Harvard Feb. 7, 1886.  The greater part of his life was spent in Walton and he had lived at Sidney Center for the past 10 years.  He is survived by one son, Herbert Entrott, of Hoboken, N.J.; a brother, Fred, of Syracuse, and a sister, Mrs. Minnie Landwidge, of Oxford.  He also took into his home and brought up two other children, Sergeant Willard Steele, now serving overseas, and Mrs. Harriet Dewey, of Masonville.

Soldier News continued, 1944

Pfc. Roscoe Hull Killed in Action
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 5, 1944

An Otsego County soldier, First Class Private Roscoe Hull, has been killed in action and his brother, First Class Private George Hull, was wounded in action Aug. 30, according to word received by their mother, Mrs. Lulu Hull, of Cherry Valley [Otsego Co., NY].

Pvt. William Nichols Missing in Action
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 5, 1944

The War Department has advised Mr. and Mrs. Harry Nichols, of Frear Hollow, Walton [Delaware Co., NY], that their son, Private William H. Nichols, 27, is reported missing in action in the European theatre since Sept. 6, in Belgium.

S/Sgt. Robert C. Schaffer Killed in Action
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 5, 1944

S/Sgt. Robert C. Schaffer, killed in action in France, Aug. 18, was the 25th Oneonta resident to lose his life in World War II.  He had been overseas since June, 1943, serving in North Africa and Italy, and being wounded at Anzio.  He sent his Purple Heart medal to his mother, Mrs. John Schaffer, several months ago.

Helen Averill Commissioned Lt. in WAVES
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 5, 1944

Helen Clark Averill, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], was commissioned Lieutenant, Junior Grade, USNR, Sept. 26, havingpmen's School ning at the Naval Reserve Midshipmen's School (WR), Northampton, Mass., and has been assigned to Naval Training Center, Farragut, Idaho.  She is the daughter of Mrs. A. L. Clark, of Bixby street, Bainbridge, and wife of Captain Herbert Averill. She attended Oneonta State Teacher's College, and taught at the Utica County Day School, Utica, before joining the Women's Reserve.
 
Pfc. Hayes French Awarded Purple Heart
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 5, 1944
 
Mr. and Mrs. Charles French, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], have received the Purple Heart Medal which was awarded to their son, Pfc. Hayes C. French, for meritorious service during the invasion of France.  Hayes, better known as 'Sparky' is in a hospital in England recovering from shrapnel wounds.  he has been overseas since Oct. 1942.
 
Lt. Edwin Holloway Arrives at Army Air Forces Redistribution Station
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 5, 1944
 
Miami Beach, Fla.:  1st Lt. Edwin L. Holloway, 22, Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], has arrived at Army Air Forces Redistribution Station no. 2 in Miami Beach for reassignment processing after completing a tour of duty outside the continental United States.  Medical examinations and classification interviews at this post, one of three redistribution stations operated by the AAF Personnel Distribution Command for AAF returned officers and enlisted men, will determine his new assignment.  He will remain here about two weeks, much of which will be devoted to rest and recreation.  Lieutenant Holloway, a B-24 pilot, won the Air Medal with two Oak Leaf clusters.  During one year in the Southwest Pacific he flew 52 missions.  The son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank E. Holloway, Route #3, Bainbridge, Lieutenant Holloway was a student at Rutgers University before entering the Army in June, 1942.
 
Howard Jeffrey, Jr. Promoted
Bainbridge News & Republican, October 5, 1944
 
Mrs. Howard Jeffrey, Jr., is gratified to learn from his last letter that her husband had been raised to the rank of Staff Sgt., and shortly after to the rank of T/Sgt.  He had completed his sixth mission over enemy territory, being chief radio operator on a Liberator bomber.  Still he wrote of another side of the picture, of sight seeing in London, viewing the Houses of Parliament, and many places of renown, which brought him great pleasure.

Friday, December 5, 2014

Obituaries (December 5)

Mrs. A. Shepardson - 1878

But a few weeks since we published a notice of the death of the mother of A. Shepardson, Esq., our County Clerk, which occurred at his residence in Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY].  We are now called upon to chronicle the death of the mother of his wife, which took place also at his residence, on Monday last; and still later, of the decease of his estimable wife, she having expired on Tuesday.  Truly, friend Shepardson is in affliction, and the sympathies of his many friends will go out to him in his bereavement - Union  [Bainbridge Republican, Jan. 17, 1878]
 
William Eaton - 1877
 
About midday, on Sunday of last week Chauncey Husted, George Houck and Wm. Eaton, boys from fourteen to eighteen years old, living at Walton [Delaware Co., NY], were sitting in friendly talk around the stove at the home of young Eaton.  During the conversation something was said about revolvers, when young Houck said he had one with him.  Husted asked to see it, and taking it in his hand, he pulled the hammer back, but it would not stay cocked, and young Eaton was shot in the side, and died in two or three minutes.  [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 29, 1877]
 
Mrs. David Schultz - 1877
 
Sidney Plains [Delaware Co., NY]:  The funeral of the wife of David Schultz was attended last Sabbath afternoon from the M.E. Church, sermon by Rev. Mr. Mevis of Unadilla.  [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 29, 1877]
 
Mrs. Alvin Northrup - 1877
 
Sidney Plains [Delaware Co., NY]:  The wife of Dea Alvin Northrup died on the 26th, after a brief illness, aged 66.  Funeral services attended on Tuesday, sermon by Rev. J.D. Vanvredenburgh.  [Bainbridge Republican, Nov. 29, 1877]
 
Mrs. John Griffin - 1927
 
Mrs. John Griffin died at the County Farm at Preston [Chenango Co., NY] on Sunday afternoon  last.  The remains were brought to this village and placed in the undertaking rooms of Benedict & Kehoe.  Funeral services were held on Wednesday afternoon at the Baptist church, Rev. C.V. Slocum officiating.  Burial in West hill Cemetery [Sherburne, Chenango Co., NY].  Mrs. Griffin formerly lived in Sherburne and until poor health compelled her and her husband to move to the County Farm.  Mr. Griffin died about a year ago.  [Sherburne Home News, Sept. 1, 1927]
 
Frank B. Gilbert - 1927
 
Frank B. Gilbert, retired Deputy State Commissioner of Education, died at Schodack Center, below Albany, on Sunday morning of heart trouble.  He was born at Bainbridge, Chenango County, on March 10, 1867.  He was admitted to the bar in 1892, after being graduated from  Hamilton College in 1889.  He had been in the State service in various capacities for a great many years, and had an extensive acquaintance among lawyers and educators throughout the state.  He is survived by his widow and two brothers, Archibald Gilbert and Rev. Charles Gilbert of the Episcopal diocese of New York city.  His funeral was largely attended from the Cathedral of All Saints at Albany on Wednesday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock.  [Sherburne Home News, Sept. 1, 1927]
 
Minnie Christian - 1927
 
CHRISTIAN:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] August 26, 1927, Mrs. Ira Christian, aged 60 years and 11 months.
 
Mrs. Minnie Christian, residing on Sherburne West Hill [Chenango Co., NY], died very suddenly near her home last Friday afternoon.  Her body was found in her automobile by Everett Powell, an employee of Philip Welch's road gang who were working in that vicinity.  Powell noticed the auto standing near a road junction.  Evidently Mrs. Christian had started from her home to Sherburne, and had forgotten that the road was closed from a few rods east of her house towards Sherburne, so when she arrived at this corner had started to go to her destination by way of Bert Butt's, and died while making the turn.  The car was in low gear, ignition on, with engine stalled by car getting into loose gravel at that point. She was practically upright in the seat and Powell, thinking her sleeping, suggested to her that she had better move on. Receiving no reply, on closer examination discovered that she was dead, and after informing the rest of the crew, notified Coroner A.K. Benedict, who decided that Mrs. Christian died from heart trouble, to which she was subject and that no inquest was necessary.  Funeral services were held in the Episcopal church on Monday afternoon and burial in West Hill Cemetery [Sherburne, NY].  She is survived by her husband, Mr. Ira Christian, of Detroit, Mich., one daughter, Mrs. Elmer House, of Watertown, three grandchildren, five sisters and four brothers.  During her years of residence in Sherburne she endeared herself to a host of friends who will long remember her kindly and generous disposition. The sympathy of all is extended to Mr. Christian.
 
The funeral services of Mrs. Christian were held at the Episcopal church on Monday afternoon, and was largely attended by relatives, friends, and neighbors.  We have lost a good neighbor and a loyal friend.  She was buried in West Hill Cemetery.
Now the laborer's task is o'er;
Now the battle day is past;
Now upon the farther shore
lands the voyager at last.
Father,  in thy gracious keeping
Leave we now they servant sleeping.
[Sherburne Home News, Sept. 1, 1927]