Sidney Dimock Letter from the West, 1880

From the Far West

Bainbridge Republican, October 15, 1880

 

Leadville, Col. Oct. 3d

Friend Republican:  Since I last wrote you I have been so occupied in mining and prospecting, that I could not find time to write, or even think of past events.  I will now give you a few notes gathered by the way, incidental to the customs of this part of the world.  After a few months skirmishing among the "hills," I pitched my tent at the head of Bear Gulch, and located a claim that now promises to become a paying one.  I will describe the same as a claim, and not as a mine, because it cannot be rightfully called a mine until it produces pay ore; that is, ore that will yield fifty ounces of silver to the ton.  The rock taken from this claim crops to the surface, and carries a small percentage of silver, mixed with base metals, iron, copper and antimony.  It is the theory of practical miners that when the mineral bodies were formed, the base metals being lighter, were thrown at or near the surface, while the heavier and more precious ones, gold and silver, remain at a greater depth.  However true that may be, it often happens that old miners, with all their stories and knowledge of mines, are misled from the path of fortune, and some inexperienced one comes upon the scene and walks off with the precious metal.  Future development will test the richness of the claim mentioned.  The location is  upon the divide, or Backbone of the continent, and presents one of the most inspiring views to be witnessed upon the American continent, with the stately mountains of the Pacific slope to be seen a hundred miles away towards the setting sun; with their lofty peaks, resembling the dome of the National capital, and in point of architecture the New York state capitol, but a thousand times more imposing in appearance and grandeur.  At the same time one experiences the dreadful current of air sweeping across the divide at an altitude of thirteen thousand feet coming as it would seem directly form the Pacific ocean, with all the velocity of a South Sea hurricane.  I will mention some of the trials and pleasures of camp life.  Life in camp can be enjoyed with pleasant weather, but when the storms of the rocky Mountains are raging, then you realize the terrible situation.  Imagine yourself in camp the first of September, and the whole surface of the country about you covered with snow four inches deep, and when you awake in the morning find your tent surrounded with donkeys, and their musical tones warning you to roll out and attend to duties in camp.  In the month of August while riding in the saddle, I encountered one of the most violent snow storms known to any region; and at times during the tempest my horse refused to proceed any further and would plunge into the dense forest and there remain until the storm had abated.  The 20th of August, while proceeding up the mountain, I gathered a handsome bouquet of flowers, and when I had completed my bouquet I was obliged to seek shelter beneath a cliff of rocks, and there secluded myself one full hour from the driving snow storm. A few weeks ago, I had occasion to cross the range, a distance of fifty miles and departed from camp alone, taken saddle passage, with my Henry rifle to protect me from the "Big Ones;"  but the first day out I fell in company with my traveling companion, Smith.  While in camp a friend of his rode in and dismounted.  The friend was a lawyer form Leadville, one of those fellows that growl in the kennel of justice; he was looking after some mining interests near by, and had specimens of gold rock in his possession.  After a few remarks made in regard to his mission, he became very enthusiastic over his discoveries, and stated that the gold exhibited itself upon the surface a distance of nine thousand feet, and the party had located six claims upon the lode.  While describing the same in a manner peculiar to the profession, his mind wandered afar off to the golden fields; and therein was crowned a Bonanza king, in his mind.  We concluded, judging from his description of ore displaced, that the claims were worth about five cents.  I mention this to illustrate how the mining fever pervades the mind while operating in mines.  Upon my return to camp I had the pleasure of camping alone, and to make it the more pleasant, my horse escaped form camp and caused me to travel six miles before securing him.  So you see it is not all sunshine in the Rocky Mountains.  You would be surprised to see how fortunes are made and squandered in this wonderful mining region.  Many make fortunes in a short time, while others struggle along for years without accumulating anything.  Nothing is more uncertain than mining operations.  I have had men pointed out to me that have made a cool million in two years; and others that have lost twenty thousand or more in the attempt to increase their fortune.  It requires years to become familiar with the country and its prospects.  Ere long I will write you concerning Leadville life and adjoining camps.  Two New England clergymen having visited Leadville, in their description of the place, speak of having been to Hell, but admit they had a good time while there. The mystery is how they could enjoy themselves in such a place.

Sidney Dimock

Obituaries (August 16)

Isabella Cowan

Utica Saturday Globe, February 1902

 

 

Mrs. Isabella Cowan

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At the home of her daughter, Mrs. Euphemie Coon, 35 Fair street, Tuesday afternoon, occurred the death of Mrs. Isabella Cowan, aged 85.  Deceased was the widow of John Cowan and was born in Edinburgh, Scotland.  She came to America in 1850 and for 20 years the family resided in New York before moving to Gilbertsville, Otsego county, where Mr. Cowan died 34 years ago.  Mrs. Cowan afterwards came to Norwich and had since made her home with her daughter.  While living in Scotland she joined the Presbyterian Church and after she became a resident of Norwich she became a member of the Congregational Church in 1873, during the pastorate of Rev. Samuel Scoville.  Mrs. Cowan was the mother of seven children.  She had been in strong and vigorous health until last winter.  She was a woman of beautiful Christian character and her life has left a strong impression upon those who knew her well.  She is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Euphemie Coon, with whom she made her home:  Mrs. Susie Paddleford, of North Fenton, N.Y., and Mrs. Clarence E. Kellogg, of Tacoma, Wash. Her funeral was held from her late home this (Friday) afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. D.W. Dexter officiating.  Interment in Mount Hope [Norwich, NY].

 

Nathan Geer

Northern Christian Advocate, May 1849

Nathan Geer died in Plymouth, Chenango county, N.Y., at the residence of his son, Wm. R. Geer, May 4, 1849, aged 83 years.  He was converted and joined the M.E. Church about 40 years ago, under the labors of Rev. Charles Giles and father White.  His companion also became the subject of saving grace about the same time and with her husband shared the privileges and responsibilities of the Church until about four years ago, when she finished her course with joy, bidding farewell to earth in full hope of immortality.  Father Geer still continued to trust in the God of Jacob, and though he was the subject of great bodily affliction, yet he endured patiently as "seeing him who is invisible."  He served the Church many years in the capacity of class leader and steward.  In short, he was a Methodist of the old stamp.  His last illness was only of five or six days continuance, but he was prepared for his final change.  He expressed the strongest confidence in God.  ---  E.P. Beecher

Henry Champlin

1794 - 1884

Chenango Union, May 15, 1884

Afton, [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mr. Champlin, an old resident of this place, who has been in feeble health for some time, died at the home of his son, Mr. George Champlin, on Friday of last week.  The remains were taken to Harpersville for interment.  His age was 89 years, and was a veteran of the war of 1812.  [Buried Nineveh Presbyterian Cemetery]

David J. Palmer

Chenango Union, April 10, 1884

Last Friday afternoon a terrible accident occurred on Melondy Hill west of this village [Afton Chenango Co., NY], whereby Mr. David J. Palmer, a blind man, well known in this place, was killed.  Mr. Palmer was at work in the woods assisting Stephen Fredenburg saw wood.  The tree on which they were at work had been sawed into logs and on the stump, which was on one edge, the tree having been blown down, remained a piece about eighteen inches in length which they had just sawed off and stepped back. Mr. Fredenburg started to walk around the stump to give Mr. Palmer his cane, when the stump fell, crushing Mr. Palmer beneath it, killing him instantly.  Deceased leaves two grown up sons, and was a brother of Mrs. D.D. Smith of this place.  His funeral was held Sunday and the remains were interred in the Glenwood Cemetery.  His age was fifty-four years--Afton Enterprise.

Abby Pixley

Chenango Union, April 10, 1884

On Friday afternoon, the 28th ult., Abby, a three-year-old son of Asa Pixley, of Afton [Chenango Co., NY], was drowned in a creek near his residence.  He had been playing in the yard, when he was suddenly missed, and search was made by the ladies of the house, which was unsuccessful.  Mr. Pixley, who was at work in the sugar bush, was notified, and the child was tracked to the creek, upon the bank of which the hood worn by the little boy was found.  A few feet distant the body of the little boy was discovered in the water and carried to his home by the distressed father.

Eva Porter

Chenango Union, May 22, 1884

Eva, youngest daughter of William D. and Mary Porter, on Friday evening, the 16th inst., entered into rest.  Fragile as a reed, delicate as a rose, trustful, confiding, as a child, she seemed young indeed for her years.  One could scarcely realize that sixteen summers and more in her life had come and gone.  Vivacious, ever cheerful, with cultivated intellect and a mind not void of useful knowledge, she appeared older than indicated by her pallid face and slender form.  Thus were her associations more than ordinarily extended and enlarged.  She was a general favorite, a fitting and agreeable companion for both those older and younger than herself, and by all who knew her was she universally beloved.  Her happy temperament and cheerful disposition could not fail to win a multitude of friends.  The circumstances attending her sickness and death were peculiarly sad.  A doting father, whom she loved with all the ardor of her affectionate nature, at a public institution from mental derangement; an only sister detained from her bedside on account of sickness; her only brother far away at his chosen labors; and next of kin, her father's only sister, prostrated with disease, she was left almost to the last under the sole care of her devoted mother, except such assistance as kind and sympathizing neighbors and friends were anxious and more than willing to bestow.  Always of a delicate organization, nearly a year since it was noticed that Eva did not appear as well as before, dating from a severe attack of lung disease at that time; yet so cheerful and uncomplaining was she that few, even those most intimate, suspected that she was subject to the least physical suffering.  Some six weeks ago, while absent with her mother caring for an invalid member of the family, she became decidedly worse, from some existing cause, and rapidly declined till at length, in spite of all that could be done, life went out as gently as dies away the summer breath. Eva was emphatically the child of religion, and died as she lived, strong in the faith. The funeral was largely attended on Sunday afternoon at the residence of deceased's parents, corner of Henry and Court streets, Rev. A.G. Upton officiated, and the services were most impressive. The floral offerings were exquisite and profuse, and it was a common remark that seldom if ever had they been so tastefully and appropriately arranged. The beautiful white casket in which Eva seemed to rest so comfortably was literally embedded in flowers, and the gloom and darkness of the tomb dispelled by the emblems of the resurrection life.  Friends were in attendance from Coventry, Binghamton, Munnsville and other places. The Sabbath School class, of which Eva was a member attended in a body. The deep sympathy of the whole community is extended to the bereaved family in their sore affliction.  The following expressions of sympathy but voice the sentiments of all who knew Eva:

From the Union School Teachers,

Academy and Union School,

Norwich, N.Y., May 19, 1884

Mr. and Mrs. Porter--Dear Friends--We wish, as the teachers of your daughter Eva, to assure you of our appreciation of her.  She was faithful as a student, and discharged to the best of her ability all her duties, and was conscientious and sincere in all her relations with us.  We commend you to the care of our Father in Heaven, who causeth all things to work together for good to those that love Him, and who alloweth not a sparrow to fall to the ground without his notice.  Yours in sorrow and sympathy--James H. Shults, Mable E. Dart, Maria W. Bishop, Mary E. Lewis

From Her Sabbath School Class Mates

Norwich, N.Y., May 19, 1884

Mr. and Mrs. Porter--We, as Eva's class mates, wish to express our deep sympathy for you in your great loss.  We shall miss her in our school life, for she was a general favorite with both scholars and teachers.  May you take comfort in the thought that her life was one of gentleness and obedience.  She always tried to do what she thought was right and showed by her life her love for the Savior.  With love and sympathy, Matie Reed, F.H. Kinney, Frank Fitch, Committee.

We are desired by Mrs. Porter to extend to her neighbors and friends, and all who were so kind and sympathetic in her sore bereavement, her sincere acknowledgements and heartfelt thanks.  Words, she assures us, cannot reward them for their many kindnesses and substantial deeds.

James Casey

Bainbridge Republican, October 8, 1880

James Casey, quite well known through this section as a stone cutter, died at the residence of Court Robbins, in this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY], on Thursday night of last week, aged about 50 years.  Mr. Casey had, seemingly, enjoyed comparatively good health up to within about three weeks of his decease, when he returned from a business trip to Binghamton and Syracuse complaining greatly of rheumatism, and had to be assisted home from the depot.  From that time on he grew rapidly worse, chronic diarrhea setting in, and other troubles, which for a week or so prior to his death rendered him unconscious the most of the time, though at times he would rally and converse quite rationally.  The deceased was born in Ireland, but had resided in this country for several years, and had become thoroughly Americanized.  He came to this section of country about seven years since and commenced work at Grieg's stone quarry in the town of Unadilla, and since then has been engaged in quarry work the most of the time.  Last Spring he leased, for five years, a right to quarry on the farm of Wm. Seeley, in East Guilford, and succeeded in opening up a very excellent quarry of stone, said all who have seen it  to be one of the best in the country.  He immediately began to do a thriving trade in stone, shipping large orders to Utica, Syracuse and other points and he appeared in a fair way to become quite well off in this world's goods.  But success was his misfortune, for, from having led a sober life for a long while, and being a member in good standing of the Good Templar's Order in this village, he began a life of dissipation, and squandered his money lavishly and foolishly, until his dissipation culminated in the disease which terminated fatally.  The deceased is said to have a brother residing at Saugerties, Ulster county, this State, and also a wife and children residing somewhere on the Hudson.  The small procession of scarce a half-dozen, which conveyed the remains to their last resting place, appeared solemn enough as they passed through the streets, and a short prayer by Elder Houghton at the grave constituted all the ceremony of the interment.  Those who had profited most by "Jim's" liberality, forgot him in his distress and death, and showed how true it is, that a man who squanders his money on drink makes friends but to lose them in adversity.  "Jim" was a liberal hearted, kind dispositioned Irishman when sober, and had he left strong drink alone, might have been an honored and wealthy member of society.  This is an excellent temperance lesson for the young.

Obituaries (August 15)

Lydia (Smith) Davis

Utica Saturday Globe, February 1902

 

 

Lydia (Smith) Davis

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At her home on Front street, Saturday morning of last week, occurred the death of Lydia Smith, wife of Charles B. Davis, aged 72.  Mrs. Davis' health had been feeble for some time but there was nothing in her condition to cause alarm.  During the night before her death she complained of feeling worse and her husband gave her some medicine.  Shortly afterwards she became unconscious and died before a physician arrived.  Coroner Wilcox was notified and called at the house, but decided that death was due to heart disease from which deceased had been a sufferer for a long time.  Lydia Smith was born in the town of Norwich and had lived here nearly all of her life.  After her marriage to Mr. Davis they resided in Guilford for a short time before returning to Norwich, where they had since made their home, and had lived in the house on Front street for about 25 years.  Mrs. Davis was a good woman, kind and obliging and much respected by her neighbors and friends.  She was a member of the Broad Street Methodist Church.  She is survived by her husband, one stepson, Smith W. Davis, of Poughkeepsie, and one brother, George R. Smith, of Norwich, besides a number of nephews and nieces.  Funeral services were held from her late home on Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. Wilson Treible officiating.  Interment was made in Mount Hope [Norwich, NY].

 

May Dickinson

Broome Republican, May 26, 1880

Whitney's Point [Broome Co., NY]:  The largest attendance probably that ever was witnessed here upon a funeral occasion were gathered in and around the Methodist Episcopal church yesterday at the funeral of Mrs. May Dickinson.  She had taught school in a number of districts adjoining here, and scholars must come and see the face of her they so much loved, and the esteem in which she was held, her youth and the relation of her husband in the business affairs of the village, combined with her sudden death, all conspired to awaken the deepest sympathy, and the multitudes with one constant came to express their sympathy upon the mournful occasion.  The services were conducted by Rev. A.C. Sperry, her pastor, assisted by Rev. B.T. Davis, of the Baptist church, where the deceased had officiated as organist for some two years, and by Rev. C.E. Taylor.  Six young married men with their companions, acted as pall bearers:  William Newcomb and wife, D.S. Maxfield and wife, Ad. Yeomans and wife, D. Miller and wife, H. Beardsall and wife, and C.O. Parsons and wife.  The floral offerings were chaste and beautiful.  Her infant, which proceeded her a few hours to the spirit land, lay on her arm with her in the coffin, its tiny hand gently grasping its mother's, and holding there a little flower.  As she was a member of the Young Men's Christian Association, their rooms were draped in mourning in honor to her memory, and special reference was made to her in the service at six o'clock in the afternoon.  Great sympathy is felt for the bereaved relatives, and more especially for him she has now left alone.

 

Harriet M. (Bosworth) Chamberlain

Chenango Union, May 15, 1884

Mrs. Harriet M. Chamberlain, wife of Mason W. Chamberlain, died at her residence in this village, on Thursday morning last, May 8th, aged fifty-six years. Deceased was born in Lisle, Broome county, March 9th, 1828, her maiden name being Harriet M. Bosworth.  She was the youngest sister of Ex-Judge Bosworth, of New York.  September 1st, 1845, she was united in marriage to Mason W Chamberlain, and April 1st, 1866, came to Norwich with her husband, where they have since resided.  During her residence here she made many friends, and she was esteemed for her womanly virtues.  A devoted wife, an obliging neighbor, whose kindly ministrations in the sick room are remembered by many, and whose every day life was that of a true Christian woman, her loss will be felt in this community.  For upwards of a year past she had been in failing health, and for the last three months it was evident that the disease with which she was afflicted would terminate fatally.  During this long illness she was resigned, and spoke of her approaching dissolution with composure.  Her sorrowing husband, who is left alone in his grief, has the sympathies of the community.  Funeral services were held at her late residence on Cortland street, on Saturday afternoon last, conducted by Rev. A.G. Upton, and her remains were laid in the village cemetery.

Esther Mudge Accused of Infanticide 1879

Infanticide at New Berlin

A Child Found Buried in a Cellar

Brookfield Courier, June 4, 1879

 

Last Saturday morning the people of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] were startled by the rumor that a murder had been committed at the house of one Mudge, on Tan Bark Island, in that village. It seems that a party of young men gathered about the house on Thursday night, and hearing a loud altercation going on inside, listened to what was said. the quarrel was between a woman by the name of Emeline Hayes and Esther Mudge, wherein the former was accusing the latter of killing her child and burying it in the cellar.  On the morning following, this information was conveyed to Deputy Sheriff Hazard, who caused a search to be made which revealed the facts as reported, when he immediately arrested the Hayes and Mudge women. A telegram as sent to Coroner Avery and District Attorney Church, and a coroner's jury summoned upon their arrival. 

 

The facts elicited were substantially these;  Esther Mudge gave birth to an illegitimate child about two months ago, and previous to this had spoken to Emeline Hayes to be present as she did not want to let anyone in New Berlin know it.  It appears by the evidence that the child was alive when born and was heard to cry but was soon after put into a tub of water and probably drowned.  After the child had lain in the house for about twenty-four hours, her brother was called upon to dig a hole in the cellar and bury it, which after some hesitation he consented to do.  The crime was kept a secret and probably would have remained so had it not been for the quarrel alluded to.  The jury after a short deliberation brought in a verdict that the child came to death at the hands of Esther Mudge and that Emeline Hayes was accessory to the crime after the fact. We are informed that this is the same woman that was connected with Willie Mathewson in a similar case for which he was sent to State prison for a term of four years.

 

Utica Morning Herald, June 2, 1879

 

Esther Mudge, of New Berlin, unmarried and 25 years old, in confined in the Chenango county jail on the charge of infanticide.  Esther is one of the worst of bad women.  Nearly two years ago she rode to the hotel at Hubbardsville, Madison county, with one W.J. Matteson, a young farmer of some means, the father of an unborn, illegitimate child.  The child was born during the night, and the landlady kindly loaned Esther some infant garments for her babe.  Early the following morning the Mudge woman, with the babe wrapped in the landlady's shawl, rode off with Matteson, and that was the last ever seen of the child.  Some of the infant's garments were afterwards found under a log near the road taken by Matteson and his victim  Matteson was arrested and tried for the abduction of the infant.  He was ably defended, and after his conviction, Hon. S.S.Morgan, his counsel carried his case to the general term.  The judgment of the trial court was confirmed and Matteson is now serving out a five years' sentence in the Auburn prison.  There is no doubt that the child was murdered, but the corpus delecti has never been discovered.

 

The details of this brutal woman's last crime are too horrible for publication.  The outlines of the case are given by the Herald's correspondent as follows;

 

Esther Mudge, a notorious character residing beneath a tenement on what is called "Tanbark Island," at New Berlin, gave birth to a full-grown child, weighing from 10 to 12 pounds.  Before her confinement the Mudge woman requested one Emeline Hayes, being in the house with the Mudge family, to be present at the critical hour.  The Hayes woman and no one else was present when the child was born.  About that time there were some callers at the house and Miss Hayes was sent into another room to entertain some young men. When she returned the child had been drowned in a tub of water under Miss Mudge's bed.  By the aid of Esther's brother, a half witted fellow, and the Hayes girl, the child was buried in the cellar where it was found last Friday morning by Deputy Sheriff Hazard of New Berlin.  The particulars which led to the finding of the child are substantially as follows:  Thursday night a party of five or six young men gathered around the house in question and overheard a quarrel in which Emeline Hayes accused Esther Mudge of killing a child and burying it in the cellar. The young men could not keep what they heard, and the information thus gained reached the ears of Dr. Hazard who interviewed the Hayes woman, who had become unfriendly to Miss Mudge.  She confirmed the terrible story. An examination was made and the child was found as stated and the parties. were arrested and Coroner Avery of Norwich, and district Attorney Church were summoned to the scene.  At 5 P.M., Friday, a coroner's jury was sworn in the case.

 

On the verdict of the coroner's jury Esther Mudge was held for causing the death and for the confinement of the child, and Emeline Hayes was held as an accessory of the crime after the fact. 

 

The testimony of the physicians is that the child was born alive, and the Hayes woman says that the accused admitted that the child had made one noise after its birth and that she had put it into the tub containing hot water so tat the young man in the other room would not suspect that anything had happened. 

 

Esther Mudge Acquitted

Bainbridge Republican, June 4, 1880

 

The Mudge murder case closed about noon Tuesday.  The forenoon was mainly occupied by the defense and the summing up of counsel. Several of the prisoner's sisters were sworn for the defendant, and a number of the leading men of New Berlin also to impeach the people's main witness, Emeline Hayes. Esther was in a nervous condition but her counsel decided to put her upon the stand.  She is not blessed with an extra amount of intelligence and was somewhat confused on the stand.  She said the child was hers; but premature in consequence of a fall. This will be seen is in direct conflict with the testimony of the physicians who swore that the child had arrived at the full period of gestation, the nails were fully formed and the skin natural. After an hour's summing up on each side the case was submitted to the jury, under instructions from the Court. They retired, and in a short time returned with a verdict of not guilty.  It is surmised that the jury took into consideration the fact that the defendant has lain in jail about a year, awaiting trial under the indictment -- Telegraph

 



Obituaries (August 14)

Laura Arthusa (Smith) Mills

Utica Saturday Globe, December 1901

 

Laura Arthusa (Smith) Mills

 

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Laura Arthusa Mills, widow of Rufus N. Mills, entered into rest at her home on Brown avenue on Sunday morning last, aged 61.  Mrs. Mills was born in the town of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] February 29, 1840.  She was a daughter of Rev. Erastus P. Smith, a well remembered Episcopal clergyman.  In 1859 she was united in marriage with Rufus N Mills, a well known farmer and stock buyer of Guilford, and the greater part of her life was spent in that town.  Three children were born to them, two sons who died in childhood and one daughter, Miss Mary B. Mills who survives.  Mr. Mills died in 1889.  The year following the death of her husband Mrs. Mills and her daughter removed to Norwich and have since resided here.  The deceased was a former communicant of the Episcopal Church of Guilford, in which for more than 30 years before he entered the ministry her father was lay reader.  Since coming to Norwich she had been a devoted attendant at the Emmanuel Church.  Since last spring Mrs. Mills had been in poor health and for two months had been confined to her home.  She was of an unusually sunny  nature and bore the severe sufferings of her last illness with characteristic cheerfulness and fortitude.  Besides her daughter, she is survived by one brother, Homer L. Smith, and two sisters, Mrs. Esther C. Bradley and Mrs. J. Harvey Shelton, all of Norwich.  A large circle of friends, drawn to her by her uniform kindness and sympathy, also mourn her demise.  Funeral services were held at 9 o'clock on Wednesday morning.  Burial was at Guilford Center [Chenango Co., NY].

 

Mr. M.J. Loundsberry

Mr. M.J. Loundsberry died at the residence of Sylvanus Hatch Thursday April 16, at 9:30 p.m.  after an illness of five days duration.  Deceased was born in Westchester county, N.Y., and was in the seventy-fifth year of his age.  He has been a resident of this county for more than a half a century and was well and favorably known.  He was never married but leaves two brothers, Fred J. of Minnesota and J.H. Loundsberry of Port Dickinson, and one sister, Mrs. Geo. C. Decker of 87 Susquehanna street, Binghamton, from whose residence the funeral will take place on Sunday afternoon, April 19, at 3 p.m., W.T. Cornell funeral director.

 

Jabez May

On Thursday of last week Wallace May received a telegram announcing the dangerous illness from a paralytic stroke of his father, Mr. J. May, who lived in Penn Yan [Yates Co., NY].  While making preparations to take the train on Friday, news came to Mr. May that his father was dead.  He went on to attend the funeral which took place Sunday.  The burial was at Penn Yan.  He is survived by his wife and four children.  The May mills which the deceased formerly ran have been familiar to Bainbridge people for fifty years, and the one still standing upon the West Bainbridge road, a mile above the village, is an old landmark, often mentioned to determine distance or locality in that region.

 

Elizabeth (Loomis) Scott Stever

1829 - 1897

Entered into rest Monday night, June 7th, at the homestead one and a half miles from the village of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], Mrs. Elizabeth Stever in the 68th year of her age.  The deceased has been a great sufferer for years from a complication of diseases baffling the skill of her faithful and untiring physician until death came as a release.  An only child survives her, Mrs. Edna J. May, whose loving tender care of her mother has been rarely equaled.  Kindly assisted by her devoted husband, Wallace May, together they have solicitously and earnestly anticipated the slightest wishes of the sufferer, striving to make the weary hours more pleasant or at least endurable.  The funeral was held Thursday from the house, and many paid their last respects to one who had suffered so patiently for years. The interment was in the Episcopal cemetery.  Rev. D.N. Grummon of Binghamton officiated.   [Widow of Henry A. Scott]

 

Dewitt Osborne

Utica Observer, October 26, 1914

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The funeral of Dewitt Osborne, aged 62 years, was held from his residence on Mechanic street this afternoon at 2 o'clock.  Mr. Osborne died at the Norwich Hospital Friday afternoon as the result of injuries sustained two weeks previously.  Mr. Osborne had driven to Wood's Corners for a load of potatoes, and as he was crossing the O.&W. Railroad at that point, a dangerous grade crossing with no warning bell attached, the 10:40 passenger train struck his wagon and completely demolished it.  Mr. Osborne was hurled into the air and landed several rods away from the track and sustained a fractured hip, bruised arms and limbs, and it is believed internal injuries.  He was taken to the Norwich Hospital, but was not strong enough to withstand the pain and injuries.  Mr. Osborne is survived by an aged widow and three sons and three daughters all of whom live in Norwich.

Clarence Osborne

Utica Observer, December 21, 1945

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  After three years of failing health, Clarence Osborne, 60, World War I veteran, died in Chenango Memorial Hospital here Dec. 19, 1945.  An employee of the W.H. Dunne Co. and the Victory Chain Inc. here for the last 25 years, he was stricken suddenly ill Monday while at his work.  Mr. Osborne was born in Hamilton [Madison Co., NY], Nov. 4, 1855, the son of DeWitt I. and Julia Bates Osborne.  He was an active member of the Lt. Warren E. Eaton DSC Post 189 of the American Legion in this city.  Two sisters survive, Mrs. George Quinn of Utica and Mrs Bert Lewis of this city with whom he made his home.  Private funeral services will be held from the Lewis home, 124 South Broad St. at 2 today. The Rev Thomas G. Swales, pastor of the Broad St. Methodist Church will officiate.  Burial will be made in Mt. Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY[.

Bainbridge High Class of 1953 - Part 1

Bainbridge Central High School - Class of 1953

Senior Portraits

"Echo" 1953

 

 

Darla Evelida Alford

 

Douglas Lee Andrews

Class Treasurer

 

Bertha May Bennett

 

Gerald Allen Black

 

Reta Faye Boyd

 

 

Patricia Elaine Dart

 



Obituaries (August 13)

Harriet (Root) Young

Utica Saturday Globe, October 1901

 

 

Harriet (Root) Young

Mrs. Harriet Young, who died recently at the home of her son-in-law, Daniel Johnson, in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], was one of the oldest residents of that place, being 90 years old the 27th of last August.  She had been in feeble health for several months previous to her death, but had retained her mental faculties remarkably well.  Mrs. Young was a daughter of Ebenezer Root, who came to Guilford from Great Barrington, Mass. and who was a soldier in the Revolutionary war.  Mrs. Young was a member of the society of Daughters of the Revolution, possessing a certificate of membership therein and a handsome gold spoon presented to  her by the society.  She was a woman of rare Christian character and was respected and loved by a wide circle of friends.  It is noteworthy that the date of her death was exactly one year from the death of her sister, Mrs. Charlotte Godfrey, aged 95.  Deceased is survived by two sons, Seth and Albert Young, of this village, and a daughter, Mrs. Daniel Johnson, of Guilford, with whom she resided during the latter part of her life.  She is also survived by one brother, Silas Root, of Guilford, who is 85.

 

Charles Martin

Afton Enterprise, November 13, 1895

Mr. Chas. Martin, of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], died at the home of his son, Chas. D. Martin, in that town, Thursday night, aged 87 years.  Deceased leaves a wife and one son.  He was a grandfather of Mrs. Jas. Landers and Miss Edna Martin of Afton.  The funeral was held Sunday morning, Rev. B.B. Carruth officiating.

 

Harriet (Bolt) Lines

Sidney Enterprise, February 28, 1929

Mrs. Harriet Bolt Lines, widow of the late Willis Howard Lines, died on Saturday morning at about 6 o'clock at her home in Otego [Otsego Co., NY], following an illness of a few days of influenza, although her health had been failing steadily since the death of her husband on April 4, 1928.  The funeral services were held at her home Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, with interment in Evergreen cemetery at Otego.  Mrs. Bolt was born in Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] on June 18, 1844, the daughter of the late Frank and Hulda Lyon Bolt, and there she was united in marriage.  Soon after they moved to Otego and built a residence on Main street that has since been her home. She is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Ralph G. Waite of Otego.

 

Wallace May

The Norwich Sun, February 24, 1938

Wallace May, aged   91, died Wednesday afternoon at 4:30 o'clock at the home of Mrs. Elizabeth Sweet, 24 East Main street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].  Mr. May, who had been in failing health, had lived for the past three and a half years at the home of Mrs. Sweet, his late wife's cousin.  Mr. May's wife, who died August 16, 1933, was Edna Scott May.  They had been married for 67 years.  The deceased operated a grist mill at Bainbridge for 30 years prior to his retirement.  Had he lived until May 27, 1938, he would have reached the age of 92.  He is survived by a brother, Walter May of Okonogan, Wash., a niece, Jennie Clifford of Auburn, Wash., and four cousins, Emma Beadeau of Sidney, Mrs. Frank Hamm, of Woods Corners, Mrs. H.D.Pierce of Binghamton and Richard Curtis of Locust street, Norwich.  Funeral services will be held Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock from Colwell's Funeral Parlors in Bainbridge. Burial wil be made in Presbyterian cemetery at Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY]. The Methodist minister will officiate.  [Buried, St. Peter's Churchyard, Bainbridge, NY]

 

Charles H. Lipp

The Norwich Sun, February 24, 1938

Utica [Oneida Co., NY]:  Charles H. Lipp, 69, formerly of 321 Blandina, Utica, veteran brakeman of the New York Central Railroad, died Wednesday in an Albany hospital.  He lived in Utica until a month ago when his wife died.  Lipp, oldest brakeman on the Mohawk division, out of Syracuse, was well known to railroaders.  He was a member of the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen and the Maccabees.  He attended Central church.  He was born in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], son of the late Charles and Bridget Reardon Lipp.  He married Miss Gertrude Van Namee.  He leaves two sons, Robert D., of Utica and Charles H. Lipp Jr. of Illion; two daughters Mrs. William C. Tanner, Utica, and Mrs. Walter Cull, Albany, and several grandchildren.  Burial will be in Ilion.

 

Nellie Newton

Miss Nellie Newton, daughter of Mr and Mrs. Geo. E. Newton of Sidney died yesterday morning at about 7 o'clock, aged 19 years.  Miss Newton was a very highly esteemed young lady, a graduate of the class of '94, Bainbridge Union School, and had a host of friends in Bainbridge, upon whom her untimely death casts a deep and lasting sorrow, and their heartfelt sympathy goes out to the bereaved parents in their sad affliction.  The funeral will be held at the late residence in Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], Friday, at 10 o'clock interment In St. Peter's cemetery, this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY].

Samuel Stewart

Just before going to press this noon Samuel Stewart who resides with his two daughters in Rev. H. Payne's house on Kirby street, while walking on the railroad track on his way to his son's farm, down the river, was struck by a wildcat engine backing from Sidney to Nineveh.  Mr. Stewart who was quite deaf stepped from the east to the west bound track of avoid a coal train and was unaware of the approaching engine.  He was struck on the head by an iron on the engine and instantly killed. The body was thrown from the track and was not badly mutilated.  His family were at once notified and the remains taken in charge by the undertaker.  Decease was about 80 year sold, a widower and leaves several children.

Ira A. Yale Writes from West, 1880

Ira A. Yale Writes From the Far West

Bainbridge Republican, November 5, 1880

 

Creighton, Knox Co., Neb., Oct. 26th

I presume you have had pretty general news as to the extent of the great storm which we have been so unexpectedly visited with.  Such a storm was never before known by the oldest settlers in this vicinity.  To describe a blizzard, as we call them, as they are on the broad prairie is impossible.  The difference between a severe storm of the East and a prairie blizzard, is as the burning of one or two buildings in your quiet village, and the great fire of Chicago a few years ago.  Imagine your most severe North western snow storm in mid-winter, with the wind unchained on leaving the British Possessions, driving the snow before it without a tree or  hill to impede or break its force, and by the time it reaches you in old Chenango, you would get a pretty good fortaste of what a blizzard is in the Northwest.  Happily for the comfort of man and beast they seldom occur here.  Our Falls are, as a rule, dry and peasant, very much like your Indian Summer, with very little rain, and not any snow until about the middle of November, and then cold for a few days only, Winter not setting in until about the first of January. This year is an exception.  Wednesday, the 13th inst., gave us a fine rain with some thunder, being the most rain known in Knox county from it's first settlement, nine years ago.  It cleared off in the night and was warm and pleasant Thursday. Friday morning was cloudy and it began to storm about half past nine with a strong wind from the North west.  At noon it was snowing quite hard, both wind and snow increasing in severity every moment. At half past two a team came for my scholars, releasing me from the necessity of staying at the school house (which is nearly one mile from a house) for I know not how long.  I enjoyed the hospitality for the night, of Mr. Montgomery (a former resident of Harpursville).  The wind and storm increasing until midnight, abated a little by morning, only to renew its force with increased energy the next day, and this continued for three days and nights.  Being somewhat anxious as to the comforts of my family, I decided about 11 o'clock on Saturday, to brave the storm and try to reach Creighton, a distance of nine miles, the rashest act of my life, and one I think I will never repeat.  Creighton lays in a South west direction from where I was to start.  Going to the door I selected the direction I wished to take, and struck out, as we sometimes say.  For the first mile I succeeded in keeping the road, when I lost my way, and it was with some difficulty and wanderings from bluff to bluff, I succeeded in regaining the right track or trail, as we call them. To turn back and reach the shelter I had left was of as much danger as to try and seek shelter beyond, a distance of four miles.  Farther to the South of us, persons have been known to perish in trying to go from their home to their barns and back, a distance of not more than thirty rods, during one of these severe storms later in the season.  My track for the next four miles was entirely obliterated except in places of a few rods, and in a section lately burned over by one of those devastating prairie fires, which I had never crossed but once before, I wound my way over bluffs and through ravines, sometimes on the burnt ground and again over snow drifts perhaps ten feet deep, until I reached the highest ground in Knox county.  Striking what is known as the dry creek road, which leads in a South east direction, when I became entirely lost.  So intense was the storm, at times I could not see to distinguish an object twenty feet from me, and could scarcely keep on my feet.  After wandering for some time in search of my road, and not finding it, I took a North west direction for the Bazzile creek, in hopes that by reaching that I could reach shelter, if not home.  I finally reached a section of country I knew, and also a house, and found I was about five miles from where I had started, and a little more than half way home, which I succeeded in reaching without any further trouble, except wind and snow, of which there was plenty.

 

I have given my experience in the storm that you might form something of an idea of what our storms are here, and the dangers with which we have to encounter in trying to travel during their continuation.  There has been a great deal of suffering during this storm.  Many families were living in their wagons while they were building their houses.  Others had just moved into their houses the night before, and were caught without provisions for three days or more, and without wood or fuel, except as they could get to a stack of hay, so unexpected was the storm. The stock men have suffered quite a severe loss from their cattle stampeding and perishing in the sloughs and otherwise.  It is impossible to state the loss yet, as many that were supposed to have been lost will be recovered.  Our weather at present is pleasant, the snow nearly all gone, and every appearance of Indian Summer.

 

Ira A. Yale.

Marriages (August 12)

Lewis - Osborne

Utica Saturday Globe,  January 1904

Bert Eugene and Elizabeth Lucetta (Osborne) Lewis

 



Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  New Year's eve at the home of the groom's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jerome B. Lewis, on West Main street, occurred the marriage of Elizabeth L. Osborne and Bert E. Lewis.  Rev. Wilson Treible officiated in the presence of a small company composed of the immediate relatives.  The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dewitt Osborne, of Mechanic street, and the groom is a valued employee of the Norwich Pharmacal Company, with whom he has been for the past seven years.  Mr. and Mrs. Lewis have the congratulations of their many friends.  They will reside for the present with the groom's parents on West Main street.

 

Taylor - White

Chenango Union, May 1, 1884

Mr. W.A. Taylor, one of the proprietors of the Continental Hotel, Leavenworth, Kansas, and Miss Alice R. White, daughter of Alexander White, of this city [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], were quietly married yesterday afternoon at Grace Church by the Rev. F.C. Coolbaugh.  Only a few friends of the contracting parties, including Mr Edward W. Crancer, of Leavenworth, witnessed the ceremony.  They are now stopping at the Morton House and leave tonight for Leavenworth via Chicago --Grand Rapids paper, 15th.

 

the contracting parties are well known in this town and vicinity, Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] being the former home of the bride, where she has for years prominently figured in society circles and numbers her friends by scores, both here and elsewhere, she being of that disposition to make every one her friend who became acquainted with her.  Mr. Taylor is a son of Mrs. G.H. Manning, of Norwich.  During his visits here for the past two summers he made many warm friends.  He is possessed of many qualities of mind which render him an agreeable companion, as well as many business qualifications which will win success in the walks of life. Their many friends join with the News in extending many congratulations, and hope their future life will be a long and pleasant one. --Sherburne News

 

Mr. & Mrs. John Smith

Chenango Union, May 1, 1884

McDonough [Chenango Co., NY]:  On Wednesday last, the fifteenth anniversary of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. John Smith occurred on which occasion their friends arranged for an observance of the event.  The day was a pleasant ideal spring one, which always adds zest and stimulates the enjoyment of such gatherings.  Upwards of one hundred were present during the day and evening, and heartily enjoyed the affair, in social intercourse, music and games.  A marked feature of the program was the gift of a fine organ to the bride and groom, as a testimonial of esteem and respect in which they are held by the donors. The presentation was made by R.A.Dunning, in a few well chosen remarks.  Dr E.L. Ensign, in behalf of Mr. and Mrs. Smith, gave the response, thanking them for this token, which was a surprise to the host and hostess.  Lewis' Orchestra were present, and discoursed some fine music; also a choir--Miss Clara Ensign and R.A. Dunning--gave some fine singing.  The tables were abundantly supplied, and were in keeping and in good taste with the rest of the program. At a late hour, in conclusion of the day of constant amusement and music, the company dispersed, feeling that all were made better by the benefits derived from this gathering.

 

Mount Upton Marriages

Bainbridge Republican, November 19, 1880

Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY]:  Wedding bells are in the air at this place.  Last week Frank Prentice took to himself another half, while Yale Richmond, not to be outdone, stepped form single blessedness to a state of holy matrimony.  And still another lonesome one in the person of Hattie Ann Hoight, daughter of Thomas Hoight, Esq., entered life's joys with a gentleman from Pennsylvania, and we understand that cards of invitation are out for the wedding of Calvin Chamberlin to Miss Era Hoag, of Norwich;  also Howard Green of White Store, to Miss Emma Hollis, of this place.

0bituaries (August 12)

John J. Curley

Utica Saturday Globe, September 1901

 

 

John J. Curley

1856 - 1901

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  John J. Curley, a well-known resident of this place and a member of the cigar manufacturing firm of Curley brothers, died at his home on Mitchel street Wednesday.  He had been in failing health for about a year, but had been able to look after his business interests most of the time until the past few weeks.  Mr Curley was born in this village 44 years ago and has always resided here.  He served the village as trustee for two terms, during one of which he was president of the board, and discharged the duties of the office in a faithful and satisfactory manner.  He is survived by his wife and one daughter, Gladys, also his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Curley, one brother, Andrew J. Curley, with whom he was associated in the cigar business, and one sister, Mrs. Kate Farrell, all of this village.  His funeral will be held Saturday morning from the house at 9 and from St. Paul's Church at 10 o'clock, Rev. Father Curtin officiating.  Burial will be made in St. Paul's Cemetery [Norwich, NY].

 

David Fisk

Bainbridge Republican, December 10, 1880

Times, Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]:  David Fisk, of Oxford, died on the morning of the 26th ult., in the 84th year of his age.  He was born in Temple, New Hampshire, and sixty years ago he came into this town and settled on the farm now occupied by Myron Holmes.  He did well his part in prostrating the forest and turning the wilderness into the fruitful field.  For a man of his time he was well educated, and taught district school more than half a century ago for ten consecutive winters, and was passionately fond of music, devoting considerable of his time to teaching it.  He was a Justice of the Peace for several terms, and was noted for his discrimination and impartiality, being a wise councilor and a peace maker.  Honest and industrious he has left an example others may safely follow.  He was hopefully converted forty-one years ago, under the labors of Mrs. Anderson, the revivalist.  His widow, to whom  he sustained the relation of husband for fifty-nine years, and three children out of seven, survive him to mourn his loss and cherish his many virtues.

 

George Scofield

Bainbridge Republican, November 5, 1880

Geo. Scofield, brother of P.K. Scofield of this village [Bainbridge, Chenango co., NY], died at Walton [Delaware Co., NY] on Wednesday.  The deceased has resided in Masonville for a number of years and was well known throughout this section of country.  About three months ago he accepted a situation as clerk in a store at Walton, and enjoyed good health up to within a week prior to his death., when he contracted a hard cold which settled into pneumonia, resulting in his death in a week.  He was 53 years old, and leaves one daughter, Flora, wife of R. McKinnon, proprietor of the Masonville Hotel.  The remains were taken to Masonville and interred on Thursday at 2 o'clock, P.M.

 

William Lovee

Bainbridge Republican, October 1, 1880

At three o'clock on Tuesday morning, William Lovee died at the County house in Preston, at the advanced age of one hundred years, five months and twenty days. Upon the completion of the old gentleman's one hundredth year, we made mention of the fact, with a brief sketch of his life.  He was born in New London county, Conn., April 1st, 1780, and settled in this county, in 1814, where he has since resided, a period of sixty-six years.  By trade he was a shoe maker, but he at one time owned and cultivated a farm in the town of Preston.  In his old age reverses came upon him, and he was reduced to want, at last becoming an inmate of the asylum for the poor.  He early made a profession of religion, and has lived an exemplary Christian.  Retaining his mental faculties to a remarkable degree, he waited with patience and submission for the summons which was to call him home.  Without apparent disease or suffering, the summons came to him on Tuesday morning; the machinery of life was worn out; the spirit of the old man was freed, to join the loved ones who had preceded him to the "other shore." In compliance with his wish, long since expressed, his remains were buried by the side of those of his wife, which for many years have reposed in a cemetery in Pharsalia.  Keeper Leach and family have rendered every attention to the wants of the old gentleman, during his stay with them, and it is proper that this, his reasonable request, should be complied with--Union

 

Edwin C. Brooks

Chenango Union, May 8, 1884

On Monday last, the remains of another of our former prominent business men were brought from a distance and laid in our village cemetery.  Edwin C. Brooks died at Grand Rapids, Mich., on Friday evening last, of apoplexy, aged fifty-seven years.  Deceased was a son of Lyman Brooks, for years a merchant in this place, and was born and passed much of his life in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].  He early developed a remarkable business tact, and was energetic and persevering in all his undertakings.  Some twenty years ago he became largely interested in oil wells and territory in Pennsylvania, and returned to Norwich with a handsome property, purchasing the residence now owned by Stanton Pendleton, on South Broad street, which for a time was the pleasant home of himself and family.  He afterwards invested in the Kentucky oil wells, and lost.  Again returning to Norwich, he engaged in the hardware business, afterwards associating with him A.H. Goodwin, under the firm name of Brooks & Goodwin, by whom the business was for some time conducted, until he sold his interest to his partner.  About ten years since he engaged in business in Jamestown, where he remained for two or three years.  Next he went to Leadville Colorado, and for three years was extensively engaged in mining and real estate business.  The readers of the Union will remember the series of interesting letters from his pen, description of Leadville and its surroundings, which appeared in these columns.  With a desire to be nearer his family, he left Colorado last fall, and during the winter was engaged with F.L. Merrill & So., of Milwaukee, as general agent for the west, in the sale of their merchandise.  Reaching Grand Rapids, Monday, April 28th in connection with his business, he went to call upon an uncle, Mr. Alpheus Bissell, and family.  As he reached the top of the flight of steps he suddenly fell, and when help reached him  he was found to be paralyzed on one side.  During Tuesday and Wednesday he was conscious, and able to converse with his family, who were soon summoned to his bedside.  On Thursday he became unconscious, and failed rapidly, dying at seven o'clock Friday evening. The best medical aid of the city was in attendance, but he was beyond help. Mr. Brooks left Minneapolis, where he had been spending a few days with his wife and daughter only about a week before the attack, when he seemed in usual health and spirits.  A singular coincidence exists in the fact that while visiting the same relatives the oldest son of deceased, Edwin, died suddenly from heart disease, nine years ago.  The remains reached this village on the noon D.L.&W. train, Monday accompanied by the widow of deceased and Dr. Brooks, who had been summoned by telegraph, and conveyed to the residence of the latter, where services were held at 3:30 P.M., a large number of friends and acquaintances being present.  Rev.  H.A. Delano officiated, assisted by Rev. L.F. Moore of Oxford, who became acquainted with Mr. Brooks in Leadville.  Among the relatives present were Mrs. Clara Brooks Cobb, of Jamestown, daughter of the deceased; Mrs. M.S. Parker and daughter, of Greene; and Mr. and Mrs. Fred Bonney and Frank Keyes, of Hamilton.  Mr. Brooks was a genial gentleman, well informed and companionable.  His memory will be cherished by many friends in the home of his youth, while those in other localities will regret to learn of his departure.  He leaves a wife, three sons and two daughters.

Bainbridge, NY Needs a Pagoda - 1880

A Pagoda for Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY

Bainbridge Republican, May 21, 1880

Now that the cornet band has been reorganized, and have commenced practicing again, with the determination of perfecting a permanent organization, why will not some of our public-spirited citizens make up a purse for the erection of a pagoda on the village green?  We are authorized by several members of the band to state, that if a pagoda will be built they will give weekly concerts therein, or oftener on special occasions.  This will add much enjoyment to the long summer evenings upon us, and drive away many an attack of "blues" which would otherwise spoil a night's rest, and leave the victim turning and twisting, and perspiringly praying for the dawn; while on the other hand, the sweet strains of Mozart or Beethoven would lull the tired mind to rest, and float it off into dreamland; and, refreshed and invigorated by "Nature's sweet restorer," the happy soul would awaken with renewed energy for the day's toil.  Let us have a pagoda, by all means.

Rev. Spencer J. Ford - Norwich, NY - 1901

Rev. Spencer James Ford

Now Pastor of the Calvary Baptist Church, Norwich

Utica Saturday Globe, March 1901

 

 

Rev. Spencer James Ford

1866 - 1927

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Rev. Spencer J. Ford, who last Sunday began his pastorate of the Calvary Baptist Church, in this village, comes of a family of preachers.  His grandfather, Rev. William Ford, was the first pastor of the Camden Baptist Church, of which his father, Rev.  Jabez Ford, is the present pastor, an uncle, Rev. S.T. Ford, is pastor of the Central Baptist Church at Lowell, Mass., and a cousin, Rev. W.J. Ford is pastor of the Green Ridge Baptist Church, at Scranton, Pa.  Mr. Ford, the subject of this sketch, has been for two years pastor of the Ford Baptist Church at Sidney Center, during which his work has been crowned with success and he won many warm friends, and his resignation was received with great regret.

 

Rev. Spencer J. Ford was born at Ford, N.Y., about 30 years ago, and is the eldest son of Rev. Jabez Ford.  He spent his early years on his father's farm and in teaching district schools.  Deciding to engage in the gospel ministry, he entered Colgate Academy, in Hamilton, in the fall of 1891, and remained three years.  In 1894 he entered Colgate College and graduated in 1898 with the degree of Ph. D.  He will graduate from Hamilton Theological Seminary next June.

 

Throughout his career at school Mr. Ford has taken an active part in the different phases of school life and became one of the best known and most popular young men in Hamilton.  He was a member of the Colgate Chapter Beta Theta,  of the fraternity of the Beta Theta Pi.  He served on various committees of the Y.M.C.A. during his academic and college courses, and is the present president of the Y.M.C.A. of Hamilton Theological Seminary.  He has represented the university on the various athletic teams. The impression prevails that he possesses all the requisites for a successful pastor and one in whose care the spiritual and temporal interests of the Calvary Church will be fostered and its work be blessed.

________________________________________________________

 

Obituary

Daily Sentinel, Rome, NY, October 10, 1927

 

Camden [Oneida Co., NY]:  On Saturday, at the parsonage in Hillsboro, occurred the death of the Rev. Spencer James Ford, eldest son of the late Rev. Jabez and Margaret A. Ford.  The deceased was in his usual health until 5 o'clock in the afternoon, when he suffered a severe heart attack, and passed away shortly before 6 o'clock.

 

Mr. Ford was born in Camden, Nov. 21, 1866.  He received his early education in the district schools.  After teaching two years he entered Colgate Academy.  He was graduated form Colgate university in 1898, and from Colgate Theological Seminary in 1901.  Mr. Ford was very prominent in athletics, one distinction being his election as varsity football captain during his freshman year.  He was a member of the football, baseball and track teams, during his four years at the university.  He was also a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity.  While a student in the seminary he was pastor of the Baptist church at Sidney Center.  After graduation he accepted a call to the Calvary Baptist church of Norwich, N.Y., where he remained until 1903.  His next pastorate was the Central Park Baptist Church in New York city where he remained 13 years.  He resigned in 1917, in order to engage in Y.M.C.A. work during the World War.  Over 500,000 soldiers passed through his hut at Nouf Chateau, France, during his service there. After the close of the war, he was engaged in Americanization work in Long Island City, for two years. He was general secretary of the Railroad Y.MC.A. in Albany.  Again feeling called to this ministry, Mr. Ford accepted a pastorate at the First Baptist Church in West Winfield, where he remained for five and one-half years.  he was chaplain of the Masonic Lodge at West Winfield. For the past year he was president of the Baptist Ministers Conference of Utica and vicinity. At present, Mr. Ford was pastor of the Hillsboro, Maple Flats and Constantia Center churches.

 

Mr. Ford had a strong, forceful personality.  He whole heartedly entered into his work as a Christian minister.  His work with young people governed much of his activity  He enjoyed all clean sport.  He played the game hard, being an example of clean living, good sportsmanship and practical Christianity.

 

The funeral will be held from his late residence Wednesday afternoon at 1 o'clock and from the Hillsboro Baptist Church at 2 o'clock.  Interment in the Hillsboro cemetery.

____________________________________________________________

 



Harriet (Stilson) Ford

Utica Daily Press, October 18, 1970

 

Mrs. Harriet Ford, 97, formerly of West Winfield, widow of the Rev. Spencer J. Ford, died Tuesday in Carmel Community Hospital, Carmel, Calif.  She was born in Sidney Center [Delaware Co., NY], daughter of Egbert and Emily Stilson.  She attended school in Sidney Center and taught there for many years.  In 1900 she was married to Mr. Ford, then minister of Calvary Baptist Church, Norwich.  He died in 1927.  Mrs. Ford later lived in Bellows Falls, Vt, West Winfield and Carmel with her daughter, Mrs. Emily Leonard.  Mrs. Ford was a member of the Baptist church of West Winfield and the Gen. Winfield Scott Chapter DAR of which she was chaplain.  Besides her daughter, she leaves a son Stilson J. Ford, West Winfield.  Cremation was in Carmel following a prayer service in Chapel-by-the-Sea.  A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday in the Federated Church of West Winfield. Burial will be in Hillsboro Cemetery, Hillsboro, N.Y.

 

 

 

 

Obituaries (August 11)

Demmon Wait

Utica Saturday Globe, August 1901

 

Demmon Wait

 

Demmon Wait, a life-long and respected resident of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], died Monday afternoon at the home of his daughter, Mrs. C.C. Brooks, on North Broad street.  He was born 83 years ago on the site of the present residence of Mrs. B. Gage Berry, of North Broad street.  By occupation Mr. Wait was a carpenter and builder, and during the 30's and 40's he erected and assisted in the erection of many of the buildings in this place.  Later he was a member of the firm of Wait Brothers, who conducted a planning mill and sash and blind factory on Mitchell street.  He was one of the oldest members of the Methodist church in this village, uniting with that denomination before there was any church in Norwich, meetings being held in the Court House and other places.  When the first church was built he assisted in its erection and also gave liberally of his means for that purpose.  He was a man of retiring disposition, a gentleman in words and actions, kind to his family and respected by all who knew him.  September 12, 1844 he married Miss S. Jennette Hopkins, daughter of Samuel Hopkins, Sr.  She passed away about a year an da half ago.  Mr. Wait is survived by one daughter, Mrs. C.C. Brooks, of Norwich, and one son, Charles D. Wait of North Dakota.  Another daughter, Hattie, died several years ago.  His funeral was held Wednesday, Rev. Wilson Treible officiating.  Interment was in Mt. Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY].

 

Lydia Ann  (Marsh) Waterman

Northern Christian Advocate, March 29, 1848

Lydia Ann, consort of Mr. Austin B. Waterman, and daughter of Amos N. and Mary Marsh, died in Pembroke, Genesee Co., N.Y., April 2, 1848, in the 25th year of her age.  Sister Waterman received her education, was converted, married, and finally died, in the town and neighborhood in which she was born.  She lived just long enough to be endeared by her amiability to all who knew her, especially to him who now so deeply feels the loss of an affectionate wife and agreeable companion, and then by providence was she snatched away, to leave with her friends a smiling infant, nearly two weeks old, and evidently, as her friends firmly believe, was borne on the wings of heaven to the paradise of God.  She left a circle of relatives and numerous acquaintances, to mourn the loss of an obedient daughter, an affectionate sister, a respected associate, and beloved companion, by whom they had been often accompanied to the house of God, where during the last six years of her life and of her connection with the Methodist Episcopal Church, she was wont, as health permitted to testify of religious excellence.  Sound health was never hers fully to enjoy, but, amidst the most racking pains of disease, patience held a pleasing reign, until the external sense's unexpected departure occurred; after which she seemed to linger awhile, and then expired.  How stealthily does death creep in upon vitality!  May we also be prepared. --- Geo. W. Terry, Wyoming, April 18, 1848.

 

Francis Coit Fargo

Northern Christian Advocate, March 29, 1848

Francis Coit Fargo, son of Arvin I. and Nancy Fargo, died in Hastings, Oswego Co., N.Y., March 16th, 1848, aged 1 year, 9 months and 19 days.  Little Francis was beautiful while living and is mourned for, now dead.

The Mother's Medication, after having returned from the grave

"Farewell, sweet babe, adieu, adieu,

No earthly tied can bind you here.

Your brother and your sisters there,

I hope we all shall meet with you,

And in one circle join and sing

Eternal praises to our King."

                                                                                            Nancy Fargo

 

Samuel Thompson

Northern Christian Advocate, March 29, 1848

Samuel Thompson, only child of Samuel H. and Mary Gibbs, died in Sterling, Cayuga Co., N.Y., aged 7 years,  9 months and 1 day.

"Tis not for the ravage of winter we mourn;

Kind nature the embryo blossom will save;

But when shall spring visit the mouldering urn!

O when shall day dawn on the night of the grave!"

                                                                                                 M.H. Gaylord

 

Eliza H. Chapman

Chenango Union, March 13, 1884

Mrs. Eliza H. Chapman, widow of the late Benjamin Chapman, died at her residence in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] on Sunday morning last, after a lingering illness, in the eighty-second year of her age.  She was born in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], in 1802, and in 1826 was united in marriage to Benjamin Chapman, then a young merchant of this village.  Of four children, the result of this union, but one, William H. Chapman, now of New York, survives her.  She was an estimable lady, and her loss will be deeply felt by surviving relatives and friends.  Funeral services were held at her late residence on Tuesday afternoon and were largely attended.  Rev. A.G. Upton officiated.

 

Joseph B Chaffee

Chenango Union, January 4, 1883

After an illness of several days, Joseph B. Chaffee died at his residence in Binghamton [Broome Co., NY] on Friday evening last, aged fifty-two years.  Mr. Chaffee was born in Cheshire, Mass., and when fifteen years of age became a resident of Afton, in this County [Chenango Co., NY], where for many years he was associated with his step-father, the late Merlin Jackson, in the mercantile business, and was well known through that section.  In 1866 he removed to Binghamton, where for years he was engaged in the safe and insurance business.  he was a prominent Mason, and at one time held the position of Grand Lecturer.  His death is sincerely mourned by a large circle of acquaintances. He leaves a wife and four children, three daughters, and one son.

Nursery School Graduation, Bainbridge, NY, 1969

Graduation Exercises at Nursery School

Tri-Town News, June 25, 1969

 

 

Graduation exercises were held Friday night for the Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] Community Nursery School at the Free Methodist Church.  Six youngsters graduated from the school this year--Jeffrey Niles, Terri Sloan, Lee Bossler, Brian Orzell, Christia Lewis, and James Brinson.  All of the nursery school pupils participated in the program which consisted of the singing of "Jesus Loves Me" and "Jesus Loves the Little Children," rhythm band participation, a puppet story, "Miss Moppet," told by teacher Mrs. Florence Steffen, presentation of certificates and gifts, and the singing of "Goodbye to You."  Refreshments were served.

 



Obituaries (August 10)

Clarence A. Cary

Utica Saturday Globe, August 1901

 

 

Clarence A. Cary

1850 - 1901

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Clarence A. Cary, who died at  his home on Silver street last Friday morning after a lingering illness was one of the best known residents of Norwich.  Mr. Cary was the only and devoted son of Albert Cary and was born in Norwich April 11, 1850.  At the age of 13 he entered the office of the Western Union Telegraph Company as messenger boy and after a few months succeeded to the position of operator, which duties he continued to perform during the remainder of the war period and until 1866; when he went to Milwaukee to accept a position as operator in the dispatcher's office of the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad.  After becoming skilled in the knowledge and duties of that office he became dispatcher of the Wisconsin Central road, then building, and remained until the reorganization of the company, when he was made dispatcher on the Michigan Central, the man under whom he had served as dispatcher having been elected superintendent.  Later he was assistant superintendent of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul, relinquishing his duties there in 1882 on account of failing eyesight caused by overwork.  He returned to Norwich and entered into partnership with his father in the wholesale and retail carriage and hardware business, which has since been conducted under the firm name of A. Cary & Son.  Mr. Cary was a progressive and upright citizen, foremost and active in advancing the interests of Norwich, and was prominent in business and social life.  He was a pleasing vocalist and on all occasions was ready with his voice, singing at public gatherings.  He became a charter member of the George Rider Hook and Ladder Association at its organization in September, 1891, and was its first president, holding the office until January, 1894.  He was an active member of the company and served as foreman from 1896 to 1898.  He was sent as delegate to the State Firemen's Convention in Binghamton in 1898 and Yonkers in 1899.  Previous to the organization of the Hook and Ladder company he was a member of the Alert Hose Company.  Mr. Cary was popular with his fellows and associates, always genial and generous-hearted, and a friend to everybody.  His death falls with crushing weight upon his aged parent, a widow and daughter, who have the sympathy and condolence of a wide circle of friends.  Mr. Cary was married in 1872 to Miss Meta Van Schaick, of Milwaukee, who has proved a faithful and devoted life companion and with their only child, a daughter, Mrs. Charles Bissell, is left to mourn the loss of a kind husband and indulgent father  His father, Albert Cary, and one sister, Mrs. Carrie Cary Sweet, also survive.  Funeral services were held on Sunday afternoon at 4 o'clock form his late residence, Rev. James R. Edwards, of Flatbush, late pastor of Calvary Baptist Church of this village, officiating.  The members of the Norwich Fire Department escorted the remains to Mount Hope Cemetery.

 

Wallace Baker

Bainbridge Republican, July 2, 1880

Drowned in Cayuga Lake.  On Sunday morning a party consisting of three boys in a row boat, off Garritt's Point, got hold of the hawser of the tow boat Wilcox.  The tow boat was going so fast they could not hang on, and they loosened their hold and endeavored to get out of the way. They were unable to do so, however, but were struck by one of the canal boats which the Wilcox had in tow, and were drawn under it.  Two of the boys saved themselves.  The third, Wallace Baker, caught the rudder of a canal boat, but before he could be rescued he fell off and was drowned.  Immediate search was made for his body, but at last accounts it had not been recovered.

 

Betsey Teachout Adams

Bainbridge Republican, February 14, 1907

Mrs. Betsey Teachout Adams, who died recently at Union Valley, was born in Chenango Co.,  N.Y., and probably, in the town of Oxford nearly eighty years ago.  In her younger days she taught school, living a part of the time with a family by the name of Ives near Ives settlement.  Later she married Rev. William Adams, a member of the Central New York Conference, and with him shared the experiences of the Methodist ministry for some years.  Some time after Mr. Adams death she returned to Union Valley and lived with Mrs. Stockwell, who was formerly Miss Ives.  Mrs. Adams was a true Christian and a loyal member of the Methodist Episcopal church.  She took a great interest in music and was for many years a member of the choir at Union Valley.  She was also an active worker in the Sunday school.  She was kind of heart and it was always her delight to help and even sacrifice for others.  In this regard she went often beyond her strength in later years.  She was a regular attendant at church service, and with great promptness and firmness always witnessed for Christ.  Her last illness was short but severe, and she soon succumbed to the attack.  Her funeral sermon was preached at the Union Valley church by her pastor, Rev. G.E. VanWoert on Sunday, Feb. 3, at the usual hour of service.  Her remains were taken to Cortland and laid by those of her husband who died many years ago.  We think of her absence in the words of Jonathan to David, "Thou shalt be missed because thy seat will be empty."

 

The sister, Mrs. Louisa Teachout, of the late Mrs. Betsey T. Adams, and the niece, Mrs. Mary Wakefield, and nephews, Jefferson, William, Charles, and Albert Teachout, wish to extend thanks to their warm friends and neighbors who have bestowed so many kindly attentions during the illness and at the funeral of the much loved relative, Mrs. Adams.  The music and the floral offerings were expressive tributes to the worth of the deceased which the kindred appreciated.

 

Louisa C. Teachout

Bainbridge Republican, March 30, 1922

Mrs. Louisa C. Teachout, died Thursday afternoon of last week at the home of her son, Albert, on Pearl street [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] from infirmities of old age, her age being 89 years.  Mrs. Teachout was born in the town of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] where she resided about 15 years and with her mother moved to Bainbridge where she has resided ever since.  She married Ira Teachout at about the age of 25.  Mr. Teachout died in 1907.  Mrs. Teachout was a member of the Baptist church, joining that society many years ago.  Since her husband's death she ahs resided in this village   She had been in her usual good health until about five weeks ago.  She was liked by all and had many friends.  The funeral was held from the home Saturday afternoon.  Rev. G.B. Allnatt officiating and the remains were palced in the vault form where they will be buried in North Afton cemetery [Chenango Co., NY].  She is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Mary Wakefield of Endicott, and three sons, William, Charles and Albert of Bainbridge, several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

 

Lydia Teachout Sutliff

Oxford Review Times, February 11, 1927

Mrs. Lydia Teachout Sutliff, widow of the late John W. Sutliff died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Oscar A. Winnie at South Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Monday, February 8, at the age of 90 years, 8 months.  Mrs. Sutliff had enjoyed good health until within about a week of her death when she suffered a stroke which coupled with her advanced years hastened her demise.  She was born in the town of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY].  After her marriage, she and her husband engaged in farming at several places but after his death, about thirty years ago, she returned to make her home with her daughter.  She is survived by four sons, Wesley and Amos Sutliff of Afton, Obert of Cincinnatus and George of California, and one daughter, Mrs. Winnie.  In early life she united with the Baptist church of West Bainbridge and retained a membership in the denomination during her long life.  The funeral was held at the home of her daughter, Wednesday conducted by Rev. B.A. Gates.  Burial was made in Riverview cemetery [Oxford, NY]