Marriages (February 26)

Root - Henderson

Utica Saturday Globe, May 1920

Leslie L. & Marion Ruth (Henderson) Root

 

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  At the Baptist parsonage in Oswego Sunday morning at 10 o'clock.  Leslie L. Root, of this city, and Miss Marion Ruth Henderson, of Tully, were married by Rev. Thomas A. Hughes.  They were attended by Ralph Root, a brother of the groom, and Miss Hildred Powell, of this city. The bride wore a dark blue traveling suit.  After the ceremony the bridal party motored to Syracuse for luncheon and to this city, where a wedding supper awaited their arrival at the home of the groom's parents  Monday morning Mr. and Mrs. Root left on a wedding journey of 10 days to New York, Philadelphia and Washington.  Upon their return they will make their home in Oswego.  The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Henderson, of Tully, and is a talented and attractive school teacher.  The groom, who is a New York, Ontario & Western Railway express messenger, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Willard Root, of 9 Morse avenue.  The illness of Mrs. Root prevented their attendance at the wedding ceremony.

 

ROOT - HENDERSON:  At Oswego, May 16, Leslie Root of Norwich and Miss Marion R. Henderson of Tully [Norwich Sun, May 18, 1920]

 

Sands - Tanner

Utica Saturday Globe, June 1899

The marriage of Charles E. Sands, formerly local editor of the Chenango Telegraph, and Miss Mayme A. Tanner occurred at the home of the bride's sister, Mrs. George Crain, on North Broad street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], at 8:30 Wednesday evening, in the presence of immediate relatives only.  Rev. Robert N. Martin officiated. Refreshments were served after the ceremony and Mr. and Mrs. Sands left on the D.L.&W., 11:25 train for a bridal tour through western Pennsylvania. The bride is one of Norwich's most pleasing young ladies, and will be missed among the active workers of the First Baptist Church and Sunday school, as well as in society.  Among the presents were a dozen solid silver spoons from the Baptist Choral Union of which she was a member.  The groom is well known and pleasantly remembered, having made many friends while a resident here.  He is at present in the employ of the biographical Publishing Company, of Chicago.  Among those who attended the wedding were Mr. Sands' mother and his brother, Frank E. Sands, of Great Bend, Pa.

 

Hughson - Schnickmann

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1899

William A. Hughson, stenographer at the Norwich silk mills, was united in marriage last week to Miss Pearl Schnickmann at the home of the bride in Oneonta.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. J.E. Bold, rector of St. James' Church, and was witnessed by a few relatives and friends.  Miss Florence Schnickmann, a sister of the bride, was bridesmaid, and George W. Norton was best man.  The happy pair were the recipients of many presents, among them being a set of diamond ear-rings to the bride, from the mother of the groom.  Mr. and Mrs. Hughson have arrived in Norwich after a brief wedding tour and are receiving the congratulations of numerous friends. 

 

Richards - Squires

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1899

A pleasant company of relatives and friends were present at the home of A.N. Squires, in Plymouth, on Wednesday to witness the marriage of their daughter, Helen P. [Squires], to Lewis C. Richards, of East Norwich.  Rev. T.C. Givens, pastor of the Free Methodist Church, officiated.  Mr. and Mrs. Richards left on the Ontario & Western train for a short wedding trip, and upon their return will reside in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]. 

 

Westcott - Haynes

Chenango Union, Octobe3r 24, 1889

One hundred guests assembled at the residence of Mrs. R.U. Haynes on Albany street, Wednesday evening last, to witness the marriage of her daughter, Minnie P. [Haynes], to M. DeVer Westcott, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].  Charles D. Lee and Miss Zadie Lee presided at the piano and rendered some choice music.  At a few minutes past eight o'clock the bridal party descended to the parlor preceded by the officiating clergyman.  Rev. S.N. Westcott, father of the groom, and the ushers, Fred A. Merchant and J.C. Estelow, to the dulcet symphonies of a wedding march.  Fred W. Haynes acting as best man, and Miss Alida k. Haynes as bridesmaid. The ceremony pronounced, congratulations were in order and were followed by refreshments neatly and abundantly served.  Mr. and Mrs. Westcott took to 10:30 train the same evening for a short pleasure trip, and will soon return to assume the duties and responsibilities of married life. The presents by which the numerous friends expressed their interest and regard were elegant and valuable.  Among them was a beautiful brooch, a present to the bride from a relative in California, and a marble mantle from relatives of the groom in Iowa. -- Oxford Times

 

Kelley - Anable Elopement

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, September 14, 1898

John R. Kelley of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY] who more than a year ago deserted his young wife and son and eloped with his mother-in-law, Mrs. Susan Anable, has been arrested in Middletown and brought back to Bainbridge.  The Kelleys and the Anables lived on farms near each other.  There was trouble in both families and Kelley and Mrs. Anable fled from the place.  Kelley took the eldest boy, 10 years old with him, leaving the youngest boy with his wife.  Mrs. Anable left two children with her husband.  According to the Middletown Press, the rooms where Kelley and Mrs. Anable have been living are cozy quarters, supplied with all the real comforts of a laboring man's home.  Mrs. Anable did not care to say much regarding the affair, but stated that neither Kelley nor she took any comfort in their former homes, and since coming here had enjoyed life.  She denied the charges that Kelley had left his wife in a destitute condition.  He gave her clothing and provision enough for a long time, said Mrs. Anable, and she told him to leave.  I am not a bad woman and have not felt up to the present occurrence, that I did anything wrong in the matter, as neither of us had happy homes where we were and nave enjoyed life here --Binghamton Republican

 

Kelley was taken before Justice Williams at Bainbridge, Friday, plead guilty on the charge of not supporting his wife. and sentenced to six months in jail.  He was brought to Norwich the same day by Officer B.W. Pittsley of Afton.  Kelley declares that he will never live with his wife again....

 

 

 

 

 

 

Obituaries (February 24)

Samuel Newton Ruggles

Utica Saturday Globe, December 1899

 

Samuel Newton Ruggles

1840-1899

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  The death of S. Newton Ruggles occurred suddenly at his home in Hamilton [Madison Co., NY] on Friday last.  With his only son, Allen M. Ruggles, he roomed at a residence on Pearl street.  About 5 o'clock in the afternoon a member of the household had occasion to go to the barn and upon entering found Mr. Ruggles lying dead upon the floor.  Life had evidently been extinct for an hour.  It is supposed that he went to the barn to feed the chickens, as he had been in the habit of doing.  He was a man of fine physique and quite portly and fatty degeneration of the heart is assigned as the cause of his death.  Mr. Ruggles was for many years a resident of Norwich and for the larger portion of that period was a commercial traveler, representing a large pump manufacturing concern.  He afterwards conducted a retail hardware store in the stand now occupied by Clarence King.  He later engaged in business in Utica.  Upon the death of Mrs. Ruggles about a year ago he moved to Hamilton to better enable his son to attend Colgate Academy.  During his brief residence there he made many friends, who were shocked at his sudden death, and his son has the sympathy of all in his bereavement.  Deceased was 59 years of age and besides his son, leaves one brother, who lives in Oneida. The remains were brought to Norwich on Saturday evening and taken to the residence of Miss Linda Hill on North Broad street, from which place funeral services were held at 2 o'clock on Monday afternoon, Rev. J.R. Edwards officiating.  Burial was made in Mount Hope [Norwich, NY].
 

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, December 20, 1899

The death of S. Newton Ruggles occurred suddenly at Hamilton, N.Y., on Friday, December 15, 1899, aged 59 years.  Mr. Ruggles was for many years a resident of Norwich, and conducted a hardware store for a number of years in the building now occupied by C.A. King, moving from here to Utica.  Later he moved to Hamilton to better enable his son to attend Colgate academy.  His body was brought to Norwich Saturday evening and taken to the residence of Miss Linda Hill, corner of Broad and Cortland streets, from which place funeral services were held Monday afternoon at two o'clock, Rev. J.R. Edwards officiating.  Burial was made in Mt. Hope.  A Hamilton correspondent writes "The citizens of Hamilton were shocked Friday afternoon to learn that S.N. Ruggles had been found dead in the barn in the rear of his dwelling on Broad street.  He was seen at the postoffice as late as 3 o'clock, and about 5 some of the members of the household, upon going to the barn, found Mr. Ruggles sitting in a chair dead.  Life had evidently been extinct for an hour.  He was a man of fine physique and quite portly, and to fatty degeneration of the heart is assigned the cause of his death.  Mr. Ruggles came here about one year ago with his son who is attending Colgate academy.  His wife having died just previous to their coming to Hamilton, father and son have boarded.  During his brief sojourn here, Mr. Ruggles has made many friends, and his son has the sympathy of all in this sudden dispensation of providence.  Besides his son, A.M., he leaves a brother in Oneida and other relatives.  He formerly resided in Utica and conducted a store in Genesee street."

Ella Mead Ruggles

Morning Sun, December 13, 1897

Funeral services over the remains of the late Mrs. Ella Mead Ruggles, were held yesterday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the residence of Miss Linda Hill on North Broad street.  Rev. Burton Marenes of Kingston, N.Y., officiated.  The ceremony was most impressive and was attended by many of the old friends and relatives of the deceased.  The floral offerings were particularly beautiful and spoke of the love in the hearts of those who remain for the departed.  The music rendered and the singers were chosen by Mrs. Ruggles on her deathbed and her last request was observed yesterday afternoon.  "Lead Kindly Light" and "Abide With Me" were sung by Mrs. Nettie Cromble. Mrs. Nettie Mitchell, Charles Chapman and Edward l. Nash, as a quartet.  While the body was taken from the house, "In Immanuel's Lands" was sung.  The bearers were Andrew J. Phelps, T.S. Miller, Charles Johnson, W.P. Chapman, Franklin B. Mitchell and T. Spencer Baker.  Interment was made in the family plot at Mount Hope [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].  Mrs. Ella Mead Ruggles was a life long resident of Norwich until her removal to Utica some four years ago.  Just prior to that time she married S.N. Ruggles, who for a brief period engaged business sin Norwich.  She had been ill almost six months before her death, and was confined to her bed about four weeks before the end came.  Deceased is held in loving remembrance by many old time Norwich friends. Deceased leaves a husband and one son, Allen Mead Ruggles, who is about 17 years of age.

Chenango Union, December 16, 1897

Ella Mead Ruggles, wife of S.N. Ruggles, formerly of Norwich, died at her home in Utica [Oneida Co., NY] last Friday. The funeral services were held from the residence of Miss Linda Hill, in this village [Norwich, NY], Sunday afternoon.  Burial was at Mt. Hope.  Mrs. Ruggles was born in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] about fifty-four years ago and lived here until she moved to Utica, about five years ago.  She was a member of the Baptist church, in this village from her youth, taking a letter to the Tabernacle church, soon after moving to that city. She was a woman of noble character, possessing very many beautiful attributes. She had a large circle of friends in Norwich who sincerely mourn her death and sympathize with the afflicted family.  The music used at the funeral services was selected by Mrs. Ruggles while on her death bed and every detail was faithfully carried out.

Lucinda (Miner) Winsor

Chenango Union, December 16, 1897

"Fallen asleep" in Guilford, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], Thursday December 2d, 1897, of pneumonia, Lucinda, wife of Joseph Winsor, aged 64 years.  Mrs. Winsor was born in Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], May 28, 1833.  Her maiden name was Miner, and she was the daughter of John K. Minor and Mary Gridley, both deceased.  Married February 27, 1850, to Joseph Winsor, of Guilford, she was the mother of three children, Merritt L. and Nector S. Winsor, both of Guilford, and Mrs. E. C. Fiedl, of Utica, N.Y. all of whom survive her.  For many years, Mrs. Winsor has been a consistent and active member of the First Congregational Church of Guilford; quiet and unostentatious in manner, she was yet zealous in good works, a friend to the poor and a helper for the needy.  She rests from her labors and her works do follow her.  The funeral services were held at the family residence, Sabbath, December 5, the Rev. Dr. Ernest L. Tiffany officiating.  Text of address, 2d Tim., 1:5 "The unfeigned faith which was in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice."  A large circle of friends mourn the loss of one of nature's noblewomen, sanctified by grace.

Mrs. Charles L. Bidwell

Norwich Sun, July 27, 1921

The funeral services of Mrs. C.L. Bidwell were held at the Bonney church Thursday afternoon at 1 o'clock with a large attendance.  The Rev. Stocum officiated.  Friends and relatives were present from far and near from Rome, Clinton, Brookfield, Hamilton, Poolville, Norwich, Mt. Upton, Sherburne, Earlville, Lebanon, Smyrna and Otselic.  Mrs. Bidwell lived in Bonney from the time of her marriage until about two years ago when they moved to Smyrna. She was a kind, helpful neighbor and a loyal worker in the church and will be sadly missed by many acquaintances.  She is survived by her husband Charles Bidwell, one son Earl, and one daughter Mrs. Merton Leete.

Orello D. Alcott

Sidney Record, March 20, 1947

Orello D. Alcott, who has been making his home with his son, Lawrence Alcott, in Avery Street for some time, passed away Saturday, March 15, at Hawthorne, N.Y. [Westchester Co., NY].  He had been in ill health for the past few years.  Mr. Alcott was born in Stockbridge, Madison County.  He is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Glen Hazard of Earlville, and Mrs. John Oldenburg of Erie Pa;  two sons, Lawrence Alcott and Miles Alcott of Sidney; a brother, Albert Alcott, of Rome; a granddaughter and several nieces and nephews.  Most of his life was spent as a farmer and milk tester, but he has been retired for quite a few years.  The funeral was held at the Beecher Funeral home in Earlville, Wednesday, at 1 p.m. with burial at Sherburne Hill cemetery [Chenango Co., NY].

Obituaries (February 21)

DeWitt E. Northrop

Utica Saturday Globe, November 1899

 

DeWitt E. Northrop

1838 - 1899

 

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  After a long period of intense suffering from an incurable ailment, death came as a gracious relief to De Witt E. Northrop, at his home in Cortland street, last Monday evening, at the age of 61 years. Deceased was the son of Ephraim and Ruth Northrop, and was born in the town of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], from which place he removed to Norwich in 1858 and accepted a position as salesman with the candy firm of Cox & Rupe. Five years later he embarked in the wholesale candy business for himself and in 1883, in company with George W. Nagle, bought out the business of Cox & Rupe, the firm style being Northrop & Nagel.  In 1890 he sold his interest to his partner, Mr. Nagel, and had since led a life of retirement.  Mr. Northrop was married November 6, 1866, to Mary A. Hendee, of Sherburne, who, with one daughter, Mrs. Nehemiah H. Brown, of this village, survive.  He was the youngest of six children, all of whom are now dead.  He was a member of Norwich lodge, No. 302, F.&A.M.  The funeral services were held from his late home on Cortland street, Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock, under the auspices of the Masonic fraternity, Rev. James R. Edwards officiating.  Interment in Mount Hope [Norwich, NY].

 

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, November 22, 1899

DeWitt E. Northrop died after a long and painful illness at his home on Cortland street in this village [Norwich, NY] Monday evening, November 20, 1899, aged 61 years.  Mr. Northrop was respected in Norwich as an honorable business man, and good citizen, and the news of his demise while not unexpected will be received with a feeling of profound sorrow.  He has fought bravely against a most painful ailment, and those who have been intimate with him and have known of his suffering can but feel that he has received a welcome relief.  Mr. Northrop moved to  Norwich from Sherburne in 1868, and accepted a position with the candy firm of Cox & Rupe.  He has since been a resident of Norwich.  Five years later he gave up his position to travel for himself in the same business.  In 1883 the business of Cox & Rupe was bought out by Northrop & Nagel.  In 1890, Mr. Northrop sold out his interest in the business to George W. Nagel and since then Mr. Northrop  has led a life of retirement.  He was a member of Norwich Lodge, No. 302, F.&A.M.  Deceased leaves a widow and one daughter, Mrs. N.E. Brown, of this village. The funeral services will be held from his late home No. 45 Cortland Street, on Wednesday at 2 p.m. under the auspices of the Masonic fraternity, Rev. J.R. Edwards officiating.  Burial will be made in Mt. Hope cemetery--Sun

 Nellie Hermons

Afton Enterprise, January 4, 1906

A recent issue of the Evening Herald, Binghamton, contained an extended obituary of Miss Nellie Hermons of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], who died in a New York hospital following an operation for appendicitis.  Miss Hermons was born in Binghamton where her entire life was spent.  She completed her education at the Binghamton High school and was a faithful and active member of the First Baptist church and Sunday school of that place. She leaves her mother, Mrs. N.M. Hermons, and an only brother, Geo. H. Hermons, besides several more distant relatives and numerous friends in Binghamton as well as in Afton, whose acquaintances and friendships she had acquired during her many visits at the home of her uncle R.H. Searles.  Funeral services were held in Binghamton Friday at 2:00 o'clock p.m. at which Dr. Phillips officiated.

 

Millie Bowen Cornell

South New Berlin Bee, August 6, 1927

Many hearts were sad, many eyes tearful, Thursday morning, July 27, 1927, when the message came to us:  "Millie is gone."  Millie Bowen Cornell was born July 6, 1861, the daughter of Henry and Agness Mitchell Bowen, on the farm where she died.  Early in life she was married to Edgar Cornell: going to Montana, they spent several years there.  At the death of her father, Henry Bowen, they came back East and bought the homestead and there she had spent her remaining years.  After the death of her husband, nine years ago last March, Frank Shampang and family have lived there and worked the farm, Mrs. Cornell occupying rooms in the house with the of the Home Bureau of which she was chairman for several years; the weather had to be very bad and the roads about impassable if she missed a meeting.  She was very much interested in the community, ever ready to lend a helping hand where she could.  Being one of the officers of Evergreen Cemetery association, she was vitally interested in the upkeep of the White Store church and cemetery.  She was a member of Tianderah Chapter D.A.R.  She was a member of the M.E. Church at Mt. Upton, where she was a highly respected lady and will be missed by all who knew her.  Mute testimony of the high esteem in which she was held was shown by the large gathering of friends and neighbors that met at the late home Saturday afternoon to show their love and respect for her.  She leaves to mourn her passing one daughter Lila, wife of Harold Phillips, one stepson Frank Cornell, one sister Mrs. Lina Rockwell, and several grandchildren. The Community Club attended in a body.  Millie lay in her beautiful casket surrounded by the many flowers she so dearly loved. The bearers were Lynn Nearing, Merton Morse, Walter Greene, Will Pearsall, Leon Lewis, Claude Isbell. She was laid to rest beside her husband in Evergreen cemetery [White Store, Chenango Co., NY].  Rev. N.G. McPherson of Norwich officiated.

The smile on her face is quiet,

A rose is on her breast,

Her hands  are folded together,

The word on her lips is rest,

We can not think of her idle,

She must be a Homemaker still.

God giveth that work to the angels,

Who best the task fulfill. 

 

Allen W. Cope

Utica Daily Press, 1946

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Allen Wood Cope, 72, White Store, admitted ot the Chenango Memorial Hospital here Saturday, Jan. 5, 1946.  Born Apr. 3, 1873, in Gilbertsville [Otsego Co., NY], he was the son of Thomas and Mary Botsford Cope.  His early life was passed there.  his marriage to Maude Harris occurred Nov. 1, 1899, and for 50 years they occupied a farm in White Store.  He retired five years ago.  He later entered the restaurant business and was associated with the Reed Diner in Sidney. A member of the Norwich Odd Fellows, he was a past noble grand of that order.  He was a member of the Gilbertsville Presbyterian Church.  he is survived by his wife, two sons, Raymond H. of this city and Russelel L. Waterville;' two daughters, Mrs. Graydon Pearsall, White Store, and mr.s howard Reed of this city; his stepmother, Mrs. Belle m. Cope, Newark, N.J.; a brothe,r Walter, Cop's Corners and two half -sisters, Miss Frances Cope, Newark, N.J., and Mr.s Helen Fish, Albuquerque, N.M., eight grandchildren and several nieces nad nephews. Services wil be held at 2 this afternoon from the Robert j. Fahy Funeral hume4 here.  The Rev. Harold Knight, pastor of the First Baptist church will officiate. Burial wil be made in the Wite Store Cemetery.

 

William Culbertson

Otsego Journal, May 12, 1898

Wm. Culbertson died at the residence of her son, Nathan Culbertson, near Gilbertsville [Otsego Co., NY], last Sunday morning having suffered a shock on Wednesday night previous.  Mr. Culbertson was a former resident of Boylston, Oswego county, but for the past few years had spent the time in visiting among relatives.  last year he spent some time with a brother in Canada, but came to his sons in January last, where he remained until his death.  He leaves beside his son, one daughter, Mrs. Mary Stinson, his wife having died some years ago.  The funeral was held on Tuesday from the church in White Store, Rev. W.W. Wattrous, of South New Berlin, officiating, with burial in Evergreen cemetery [White Store, Chenango Co., NY].  His age was 78 years.

Obituaries (February 20)

Mary E. Sheldon

Utica Saturday Globe, November 1899

 

Mary E. Sheldon

North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Sunday afternoon last occurred the funeral services in memory of Mary E. Sheldon.  The high esteem and genuine affection in which she was held not only by kinsman but also by the whole community, was evidenced by the large number of persons, old and young in attendance at the church, some of whom were unable to gain admittance.  Everyone loved Mary, for Mary loved everyone.  The entire community feels the loss.  She was "Our Mary."  Her life was ever considerate of others. Cheerfulness was her habit.  though she had not been in good health for some months her hopefulness always prompted her to reply to those who inquired as to her health.  "Oh, I am quite well."  Early in life she learned to love Jesus, and she has constantly shown a zeal for His cause by attendance at the services of the church as well as in other ways.  Although young in years and but just blossoming into womanhood, she exhibited a maturity of mind and of heart, and a seriousness of life not often seen.  We may not understand the Providence that has taken her from us, but "sometime we'll understand."

Morning Sun, Norwich, NY, November 17, 1899

Miss Mary E. Sheldon of North Norwich died at South Columbia, Herkimer co., Thursday, Nov. 16, 1899, aged 17 years.  Miss Sheldon went to South Columbia two weeks ago to visit at the home of her brother; she was taken with convulsions owing to Bright's disease, and died quite suddenly.  She was a very bright young lady and loved by all who knew her.  The deceased leaves her mother and stepfather, Mr. and Mrs. Louis Stradler, of North Norwich, two brothers, Fred Sheldon of South Columbia and Henry B. Sheldon of Norwich, and two sisters, Miss Alice Sheldon, who resides with her brother here, and Mrs. Elmer Smith of Earlville.  The body will be brought to North Norwich for burial.

Kittie (Hoag) Cornell

Chenango Union, June 17, 1886

The death of Mrs. Edgar Cornell was a great shock to the community.  The estimation in which she was held was shown by the large attendance at the funeral, which occurred on Wednesday, at Union church.  Loving hands had made many floral devices, and beautiful flowers were everywhere, but the lovely white robed form in the casket was more beautiful than all.  Rev. Mr. Weeks preached a fitting discourse from the words, "What I do thou knowest not now, but shalt know hereafter." The mournful music, "She's Gone," thrilled all hearts.  Kittie will be missed in the church, in the Sabbath School, in society, but most of all in the home circle. The bereaved husband and motherless babe have the heartfelt sympathy of all.

Lizzie Angell

Chenango Union, June 17, 1886

Again the death knell is sounding.  Lizzie Angell was brought to her uncle, J. H. Curtis' at White Store, from her school at Oswego, some three weeks since, very ill.  Friday, June 11th, she died.  Many will remember the tragic fate of the beautiful Elva Curtis Angell, and her young husband.  The little orphan girl they left has often asked, "Will I know my father and mother in heaven?"  The question is answered now.  Lizzie had a mind of great promise, and was earnestly engaged in fitting herself for usefulness.  She has gone to a higher sphere where the clog of mortality will not hinder the development of mind, and where with the loved and lost she may find rest forever in the home her Savior went before to prepare for her.

L.D. Cornell

South New Berlin Bee, July 5, 1919

L.D. Cornell, whose sickness was mentioned last week, died Saturday, of cerebral hemorrhage, at the age of eighty-two years and four months and twenty days.  He was the son of Daniel Cornell, and was born on the farm now owned by Homer Delavan, Feb. 8, 1857.  He was married in 1860 and bought the farm where most of his married life was spent, and where he died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. E.J. Brownell.  He has been a member of the M.E. church since early manhood.  He is survived by one daughter, Mrs. E.J. Brownell and one son Charles D. Cornell, seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.  The funeral was held at one o'clock Tuesday at his late home.

Will Carey

Norwich Sun, January 6, 1940

Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY]:  Funeral services for Will Carey, 72, prominent and highly respected Chenango county farmer, will be held from the family residence here Monday afternoon at 1 o'clock.  His death occurred Thursday night at 6:30 following a long illness.  He had been in failing health for the past two years.  A resident of this village for the past nine years, the family came here form South Otselic where they resided for some 17 years.  Born in Vernon, Michigan, Mr. Carey came to New York state when a young man.  Following his marriage, he and his wife later returned to Michigan where they lived for 20 years, coming back to Chenango county and taking up their residence at South Otselic where Mr. Carey followed farming successfully.  Had he lived, Mr. Cary would have celebrated his 50th wedding anniversary next October.  Besides his wife, Anna, there survives a daughter, Mrs. Nettie Sherwood who lived with them; one sister, Mrs. Nettie Goss of Alger, Mich.; and a granddaughter, Mrs. Anna May Drake of Norwich.  Rev. Rexford K. Crounse will officiate at the funeral services Monday.  Burial will be made in Valley View cemetery at [South] Otselic [Chenango Co., NY].

Post Listing, February 13-19, 2017

Listing of blog postings for the week of February 13-19, 2017

Marriages

Posted February 15, 2017

Marriage notices - 1864

     Rev. John B. Stark - Mary J. Tinker

     Perry Rood - Zidana E. Green

     James Aldrich - Ellen Crandall

     Clark Wilcox - Maria Dibblecom

     George W. Nightingale - Emily L. Black

     Wiley P. Holdrege - Amelia Dibble

     Walter Riddell - Annie F. Herrington

     D.L. Atkins - Anna F. Nevins

Marriage notices - 1867

     Edward W. Nickerson - Mary E. Wright

     F.P. Secor -Henriette J. Drake

Posted February 16, 2017
Margaret Brooker - John Powderly (1920)
S. Frank Carpenter - Angie L. Derby (1886)
Nettie A. Hall - Elbert L. Doolittle (1896)
Lulu Briggs - Robert Thomson (1896)
Martha Carr - Fred Chamberlin (1896)
Dorothy Bell Pope - Edward L. Kekeach (1920)

Posted February 19, 2017
H. Walter Dickinson - Anna M. Juliand (Bainbridge, 1889)

 

Obituaries

Posted February 13, 2017

Eliza (Stone) Price (Norwich, 1919)  photo

Mina (Cheney) Coffee (White Store, Clayville, 1926)

Andrew J. Coffee (White Store, Clayville, 1930)

Amasa Colburn (Mt. Upton, 1891)

Posted February 14, 2017
J. Williston Hunt (Norwich, 1919)  photo
Carrie Colburn (Mt. Upton, 1876)
Maryette (Rider) Mitchell Colburn (Mt. Upton, 1884)
James M. Rockwell (Butternuts, 1889)
Azariah E. Colburn (Rockwell's Mills, 1889)

Posted February 16, 2017
Daniel Figary (Sherburne, North Norwich, 1920)
Leonard N. Colburn (South New Berlin, White Store, 1891)
Willie A. Colburn (Guilford, 1864)
Willie H. Colburn (Guilford, 1867)
Kirk Wood (1946)
Philetus Yale (Milwaukee WI, 1906)
Jodah Edward Andrews (Preston, 1864)
Death Notices - 1864
     Corp. W.W. Butler (Plymouth)  Civil War soldier
     Mary Jane Carhart (Oxford)
     Chauncey Gibson (South New Berlin)
     Rev. Schuyler J. Gibson (Sheshequin, PA)
     Nettie Landon (Bainbridge)
     Jeremiah Bowen (Sherburne)
     Olive A. Babcock (Pitcher)
     Erastus Sill (Bainbridge)  Civil War soldier
     Corp. Lawrence C. Warner   Civil War soldier
     Oscar F. Bradley   Civil War soldier
     Dr. W.Webber Ryder (Cooperstown)
Death Notices - 1867
     Olive Hoyt (Hammonton NJ, Greene) 
          Mrs. J.F. Smith (Cuyahoga Falls OH, Sherburne)

Posted February 16, 2017
Thomas Dickinson (Guilford, 1885)
F.D. Hunt (Leavenworth KN, Smyrna, 1885)
Hilley Coon (Mt. Upton, 1885)
James Hiram Coon (1913)

Posted February 17, 2017
Spanish American War Casualties, 1898, Ernest H. Clemens & Clifford J. Houghton    Photos

Posted February 18, 2017
Reed Campbell (Norwich, 1899)  Photo
Della (Prindle) Scott) Norwich, 1899)
Lydia A. (Frink) Brooks Brown (Pharsalia, 1899)
Nina L. Bentley (Bainbridge, 1899)

Posted February 19, 2017
Major Marvin R. Sherwood (Norwich, Canandaigua, 1899)   phoot
Charles D. Cornell (Mt. Upton, Schenevus, 1940)
Dora Thayer Cornell (Mt. Upton, Schenevus, 1932)
Edgar L. Cornell (Rockwell's Mills, 1918)
Mrs. E.J. Richmond (Mt. Upton, 1918)


 

Miscellaneous

Posted February 19, 2017

View of Congregation Church, Norwich, Chenango Co., NY in 1862

Norwich NY Congregational Church - 1862

View of Congregational Church in 1862 

Norwich, Chenango County, NY

Utica Saturday Globe, 1899

This view of the Congregational Church shows a south view of Norwich's West Main Street in 1862.  The grassy plot in front of the church is part of what today is West Side Park.

Marriages (February 19)

Dickinson - Juliand

Chenango Union, October 24, 1889

One of the prettiest weddings that ever was seen in this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] took place Wednesday afternoon in St. Peter's church, when Miss Anna M. Juliand, daughter of Mr. Joseph Juliand, was married to Mr. H. Walter Dickinson of Kansas.

 

The church was charmingly decorated with evergreens, ferns, autumn leaves and clematis.  The middle aisle was spanned by a series of arches, alternately made of hemlock and clematis, and there was another arch of hemlock and white flowers over the opening in the altar rail beneath which the bride and groom stood during the ceremony.  The windows and the font were filled with beautiful ferns.  A screen of evergreens and barberries completely hid the organ bench, and there was a band of brilliantly colored leaves on either side of the altar, which was decorated with ferns, with exquisite roses in the vases.  All this was the work of St Agnes guild.  The church was filled with relatives and friends, the light dresses of many adding to the brightness of the scene.  Mrs. Copley presided at the organ and played wedding marches and other selections during the half hour preceding the ceremony.

 

At 5 o'clock the choir began the marriage hymn, "The Voice that Breathed o'er Eden," and the wedding party moved up the middle aisle in due order.  First came the ushers, Messrs. Joseph Banks, of Corning; Rollin Chamberlain, of Wilkesbarre, Pa.; Homer Higley, of Norwich and William Russell, of Greene. They were followed by Miss Mary Banks, of Chicago, cousin of the bride, as  maid-of-honor, dressed like a maiden in an old picture, in cream colored silk, made with a surplice waist, short, full sleeves, wide belt and sash and short train. She wore a white hat with ostrich plumes, and carried a bouquet of Marchal Niel roses.  Then came the bride on her father's arm.  She wore a simple gown of white crepe cloth and surah silk, made with a court train and her tulle veil fell in gauzy folds nearly to the floor.  She carried a bouquet of white roses. At the chancel steps she was met by the groom and his best man, Mr. Culver of Whitehall, N.Y., and the Rev. Chauncey Vibbard, Jr., rector of the parish, who performed the first part of the ceremony. After the exchange of the troth plight, the bride and groom, accompanied by the maid of honor, and the best man advanced to the alter rail, where the Rev. Alexander McMillan, of Whitehall, performed the remainder of the ceremony. The recessional was the hymn, "God shall charge His Angel Legions."

 

There was a small reception afterwards for the relatives and intimate friends, at "Terrace Hill," the home of the bride's parents.  The house, like the church, was beautiful with greens, bright leaves and quantities of roses.  Most of the flowers, and the table decorations, were yellow and white.

 

Among the guests from out of town were Dr. and Mrs. Long, Mr. and Mrs. Dana Culver, and the Rev. Alexander McMillan, of Whitehall; Mrs. James M. Banks, of Chicago; Mrs. William Allen Johnson, of Middletown, Conn.; Mrs. Horace Chamberlain, of Wilkesbarre, Penn.; Miss Griswold, of Albany, N.Y.; Miss Mattie Law, of Gloversville, N.Y.; Mr. and Mrs. John Chamberlain, Mr. and Mrs. George Jay, of Afton; Mr. L.B. Manville, of Albany; Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Gregory of Unadilla; Mr. and Mrs. John R. Juliand, Miss Sarah Juliand, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph B. Juliand, Mrs. William Juliand, Miss Emma Juliand, Miss Addie Juliand, Mr. and Mrs. Erford Page, Mr. and Mrs. William J. Russell and Miss Russell, of Greene.

 

In the large upper hall the wedding gifts were tastefully arranged on several tables.  There was a large quantity of table silver, and an abundant supply of household linen, besides pictures, books and fancy articles both useful and ornamental.

 

Mr. and Mrs. Dickinson left on the 8 o'clock train for their home in Ingalls, Gray county, Kansas, where Mr. Dickinson is one of the firm of Williams, Dickinson & Co., and President of the Bank of Montezuma.

 

Bainbridge Republican, October 18, 1889

Obituaries (February 19)

Major Marvin R. Sherwood

Utica Saturday Globe, October 1899

 

Major Marvin R. Sherwood

 

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Maj. Marvin R. Sherwood, a former resident of Norwich, died at Canandaigua on Tuesday.  He was about 63 years of age and was born in the town of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], the son of David and Betsey Hathaway Sherwood.  In early life he came to Norwich and worked at the trade of carriage trimmer.  When the war of the rebellion broke out he was among the first volunteers from this vicinity and enlisted in the Forty-fourth New York, known as the Ellsworth Avengers.  This regiment was composed of the flower of the young men of the State.  Col. Willie M. Rexford, George H. Spry, Jefferson W. Carr and George Peabody, four young men in this village were among his comrades from this county.  Maj. Sherwood showed himself to be a fearless soldier and proved the metal that was in him in the peninsula campaign, the second Bull Run fight and at Antietam.  In 1863 he was transferred to the Twenty-second New York Cavalry and sent home on recruiting service.  He helped raise Company L of that regiment and was made lieutenant.  In the cavalry he proved a dashing and fearless leader and rose to the rank of major.  After the war he returned to Norwich and engaged in the grocery business until disabled by the growing effects of a sunstroke suffered under the hot suns of Virginia while in the service.  He was compelled to give up business and removed to Canandaigua, where he spent the remainder of his life.  His wife died several years ago.  No children survive.  In closing a tribute to his memory, an intimate friend writes:  "Maj. Sherwood was a genial, whole-souled, likeable man.  In private as in military life, it could be truthfully said of him, he did not know what fear was.  Though dying a third of a century after the close of the great struggle of '61 to '65, he was as much a victim of that great war, a martyr for his country and in the cause of freedom as though he had died on the battlefield."  The remains were brought to East Guilford for interment and the funeral services were held from the home of his brother, David A. Sherwood, at 2 o'clock this afternoon.

 

Charles D. Cornell

Norwich Sun, June 7, 1940

Charles D. Cornell, 71, who for many years was a resident of Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], passed away at Schenevus [Otsego Co., NY] on Monday, May 27.  The funeral was held form the Tillepaugh Funeral home in Schenevus on the 29th with burial at the White Store cemetery [Chenango Co., NY].  Mr. Cornell was well and favorably known in this community and many friends gathered at the cemetery to pay their last respects.

South New Berlin Bee, June 1, 1940

Charles Cornell was brought here [White Store, NY] Wednesday afternoon for burial beside his wife, Dora Thayer Cornell, who passed away about eight years ago.  The burial was very largely attended.  Charlie, who spent his early life in this community, was a much respected man and liked by all who knew him.  He leaves one daughter, Mrs. Earl Winsor, one granddaughter, one sister, Mrs. Emory Brownell and several nephews and nieces.

Dora Thayer Cornell

The Otsego Farmer, April 22, 1932

Schenevus [Otsego Co., NY]:  Mrs. Charles D. Cornell, while attending to her household duties Wednesday evening, April 13th, was suddenly stricken and in a few hours passed away.  The cause of death was apoplexy. She was a woman of high character, quiet and unassuming in the daily walks of life, a much beloved wife and devoted mother.  She had a wide circle of friends in Mt. Upton, where practically all of her life had been spent. she and her husband came to this village about four years ago.  Private funeral services were held from her home on lower Main street, Saturday at 12 o'clock, noon.  The Rev. W.E.Webster, pastor of the Methodist church, officiated and burial was made in the White Store cemetery near Mt. Upton, at 2 o'clock.  Dora M. Thayer was born in Mt. Upton, April 30, 1872, the daughter of Theodore and Savalla Shaw Thayer.  She was united in marriage to Charles D. Cornell at Mt. Upton in 1892.  To them was born one daughter, Mrs. Earle C. Winsor of this village. She was a member of the Methodist church, Sunday school and Ladies' Aid society.  Beside the husband and daughter, the deceased is survived by a granddaughter, Shirley Winsor of Schenevus and one brother, Elton Thayer of Norwich.  Sincere sympathy is extended to the bereaved family by a wide circle of friends.

Edgar L. Cornell

South New Berlin Bee, March 9, 1918

Rockwell's Mills [Chenango Co., NY]:  Edgar L. Cornell died at his residence on the Norwich road at about 2 o'clock Sunday a.m. of a complication of diseases, from which he had suffered several severe attacks in the last year, and from which, for the last several weeks, he has been a great sufferer until death came to his relief at the time above stated.  He is survived by his wife, one son, Frank Cornell, a daughter, Mrs. Harold Phillips, also his father, L.D. Cornell, a brother, Charles D. Cornell, and sister, Mrs. E.J. Brownell, all residents of the town of Guilford. The funeral was held at the residence Wednesday at one o'clock, the remains being deposited in the receiving vault at the Evergreen cemetery, White Store [Chenango Co., NY].

Mrs. E.J. Richmond

South New Berlin Bee, February 16, 1918 

Mt Upton [Chenango Co., NY]:  Mrs. E.J. Richmond died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. H.F. Place, Saturday night.  She was the oldest resident in this vicinity, her age was 92 years and 6 months.  Two daughters and a son survive her; Mrs. H.F. Place, of Mt. Upton, Mrs. C.R. Moore, of Chicago, Richmond of Fredonia.  She was a devoted Christian, a member of the Methodist church since she was a young girl and until she was disabled by old age was always a very active member.  She was the author of over twenty books, wrote for different papers and magazines, was the Mt. Upton correspondent for the Norwich Publishing Company and other papers for several years. The funeral will be held Thursday with burial at Evergreen cemetery, by the side of her husband, Orson Richmond, who died 13 years ago.

Obituaries (February 18)

Reed Campbell

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1899

 

Reed Campbell

1854 - 1899

Reed Campbell, editor and founder of The Morning Sun died at his home on North Broad street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] shortly after 4 o'clock on Tuesday afternoon.  Mr. Campbell had been in failing health for a number of years and for two months had been confined to his room.  While the end was not entirely unexpected all hope had not been abandoned until Friday of last week, when there was a sudden and decided change for the worse, and the tide of life ebbed slowly and steadily until it went out forever.  His death removes from the community a prominent member and robs the central New York newspaper field of one of its most conspicuous figures.  Mr. Campbell was but 45 years of age.  He was born at Coxsackie, N.Y. January 26, 1854.  He early evinced a liking and aptness for editorial work and enjoyed his first experience, at the age of 15, when he edited an amateur paper called The Loyal Union.  Later he was connected with several juvenile publications. The last and most successful being The Young Sportsman.  This paper gained a wide reputation and made for the youthful editor many acquaintances among amateur publishers of that period and many friendships were then formed which lasted through life.  Among these friends were the sons of Charles Schribner who have since won fame and prominence as magazine and book publishers.  After leaving school Mr. Campbell went to New York city and served as a clerk in a large dry goods house.  In the early '70s he came to Norwich and for a time filled a clerkship in the dry goods store of Thomas S. Miller.  He later returned to New York and became the traveling representative for Meyer, Johnson & Co. ---k Manufacturers...with Blumenthal & Co. he ... for 11 years and was one of the most successful salesmen in the street and every part of which he traveled.

 

His taste for newspaper work still clung to him and he was a contributor to various publications and acted as one of the representatives of the Associated Press.  In 1891 he founded The Morning Sun, the pioneer daily paper of Chenango county, the first issue appearing on the morning of March 16 of that year.  At the start the failure of the project was freely predicted, the attempt to maintain a daily in a place the size and scope of Norwich being looked upon as little less than foolhardy.  But time has told a different tale.  From the first the paper bore the imprint of the marked individuality of the editor, who chose as his motto, "Onward and Upward."  In the initial number it was announced that the paper would be independent "in politics and religion,"  and later it sounded as its slogan, "The sun shines for all."  Today it lives in proof of its founder's foresight and superior sagacity.

 

Personally Mr. Campbell possessed a happy, genial disposition, and made friends without any effort.  He was generously endowed with the instinct of a newsgatherer and the imagination of  a genius, coupled with an ever ready wit and fearlessness in expressing his views. To these qualities his success was due.  Though conducting a neutral paper he was much interested in politics.  he was a Republican of the Stalwart school and a personal friend of Hon. Thomas  Platt.  He never aspired to political office himself, but was content with the influence he wielded with his pen.  On September 6, 1875 he was united in marriage with May M. [Merritt], eldest daughter of Mrs. C.E. Merritt, and she has proved a loving wife, a loyal companion an a wise counselor.  She survives him together with three brother, Hoik D. Campbell, of Middletown; Samuel J. Campbell, of Brooklyn, and John Campbell, of East Florence, and a daughter, Miss Maude Campbell, of this place.  The funeral was attended from his late residence at 2:30 o'clock this afternoon, Rev. E.J. Klock, of the Congregational Chruch, officiating.  The solemn service called together a large concourse of people, among whom were many representatives of the county press.  Burial was made in Mount Hope [Norwich, NY].

 

Della Prindle Scott

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1899

Mrs. Warren L Scott died at her home on Haynes street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] at a late hour on Tuesday evening.  For the past 25 years Mrs. Scott has been an invalid and confined to the house for the greater part of that period, and during that time has been more than once near to death's door, but her remarkable vitality and force of will have carried her each time over the crisis.  In spite of her long suffering, which she bore with exemplary patience, she was devoted to her family and beloved by a large circle of friends.  Mrs. Scott was born at Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY] on October 13, 1837, and was the sixth child of Seth Prindle, a prosperous and prominent farmer.  A few years later her father died and the family moved to Cincinnatus, Cortland county, and resided there for a brief period, and then removed to Richburg, Allegany county, where she was untied in marriage to Warren L. Scott October 3, 1865, and the following spring came to Norwich.  She took an active interest in the religious and social affairs of the village until prevented by disease.  Her husband survives her and also two daughters, May, the wife of Rev. E.B. Olmstead, D.D., of Binghamton, and Frances, wife of Mark F. Brown, of this village, and a son, John P. Scott, a student at Oberlin University. The funeral was held this morning at 11 o'clock.  Interment in the family plot at Mount Hope [Norwich, NY].

Lydia A. (Frink) Brooks Brown

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, April 1, 1899

Lydia A. Frink was born in the north-west part of the town of Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], on December 12, 1834, and died March 9, 1899, in the 79th year of her age.  Her parents, Nathan and Eunice Frink, had seven children, two of whom preceded Lydia into the eternal world.  Russell B. Frink was the eldest child, and he died at East Pharsalia two years ago.  A younger brother, Daniel, died in California. The remaining members of the family are Joshua Frink and Mrs. Betsy C. Baker of East Pharsalia, and Marshall D. Frink and Mrs. Francis M. Harrington, whose homes are in Michigan.  Lydia lived with her parents at Pharsalia until her marriage, at about the age of 30 years to William H. Brooks, when she removed with him to South Plymouth.  where they resided together until his death.  Mrs. Brooks was later married, March 17, 1874, to Ira S. Brown.  Mr. and Mrs. Brown had lived in the home where she died at Plymouth, for about 24 years.  Mr. Brown had been in feeble health for some time past, and Mrs. Brown was unremitting in her attention to him.  But she herself was taken ill the latter part of the winter, and after a brief but painful sickness, succumbed on the 9th of March.  Mrs. Brown was a faithful member of the M.E. church at Plymouth for over 40 years.  She was a woman of strong character, of genuine piety, and of cheerful and genial disposition and commanded the confidence of all with whom she came in contact. The high esteem to which she was held was manifest on Sunday, March 12th, when her funeral service was conducted by her pastor, the Rev. A. Clarke.  On that day notwithstanding heavy rains and very bad roads, a large company gathered to pay their last tribute of respect to the deceased.   The interment took place at South Plymouth.  Mr. Brown leaves her husband, Ira S. Brown, and son, James W Brooks, to mourn her loss.

Nina L. Bentley

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, April 1, 1899

Again have we been reminded that "Death loves a shining mark."  On Tuesday morning, March 21st, the angel of death entered the home of Mr. and Mrs. C.F. Bentley and the spirit of their eldest daughter, Nina L. [Bentley], returned to the God who gave it.  Miss Bentley was born in West Bainbridge, October 28, 1861.  Mr. Bentley and family removed to this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY] October 28, 1881, since which time Miss Nina has been a favorite, both in school and in church and her death is felt by all to be an irreparable loss.  About the first of February she was stricken with peritonitis, from which she had apparently been recovering, when on the 15th of March she suffered a relapse and gradually failed until Tuesday morning, when she passed away.  The deathbed scene was peculiarly affecting for those dear ones who gathered around her.  After bidding them all farewell, she asked her father to read a chapter from the bible, after which her pastor offered a prayer.  At the close she began singing with a feeble voice that beautiful hymn which she had so often sung in the choir.

"Oh, think of the home over there,

By the side of the river of light.

Where the saints, all immortal and fair

Are robed in their garments of white, over there."

Thus she passed away, with perfect faith in the love and wisdom of her Heavenly Father.  She was a consistent member of the M.E. church and Epworth League, always ready to do whatever she could toward the upbuilding of her Savior's kingdom here on earth.  She leaves to mourn her loss, a father, mother, two sisters and a brother, who have the sympathy of the whole community in their deep sorrow.  The funeral services were held on Friday, March 24th, from her late home at 1 o'clock.  Rev. C.R. Sackett, her pastor, officiated, assisted by Rev. T.F. Hall of Oneonta, and Rev. Mr. Coggshall of Windsor.  the Epsorth League attended the funeral in a body as did also a delegation from the High school.  The casket was covered with beautiful flowers, which whispered of love, rest and home. The remains were laid to rest in the cemetery at West Bainbridge.

The circle is broken--one seat is forsaken--

One bud from the tree of our friendship is shaken--

One heart from among us no longer shall thrill

With joy in our gladness, or grief in our ill.

 

Weep!,--lonely and lowly are slumbering now

The light of her glances, the pride of her brow

Weep! --sadly and long shall we listen in vain.

To hear the soft tones of her welcome again.

 

As a cloud of the sunset, slow melting in heaven,

As a star that is lost when the daylight is given.

As a glad dream of slumber, which wakens in bliss,

She hath passed to the world of the holy from this.

 

Spanish War Casualties 1898

Ernest H. Clemens

Died at Santiago July 16, 1898

 

 

Ernest H. Clemens

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1899

 

Morning Sun, Norwich, NY July 7, 1898

The following letter has been received at this office from a former Norwich boy who is now near Santiago:

 

Near Santiago de Cuba, June 21, '98

Reed Campbell, Editor Morning Sun--

I thought I would write you and let you know where I am and also, if possible give you some news.  We have been on the water for over two weeks and are at present in sight of a harbor which we think is Santiago, as there are a number of gun boats patrolling the pass.  Last night some of our gunboats were seen firing on the strongholds of some of the enemy, but it did not last long.  We could see a great fort with glasses and you could see where our shells had come in contact with it.  We are about seven or eight miles from the harbor but can see almost everything.  I am on the ship, Rio Grande, No. 22, and there are 960 soldiers on board. There are about 34 transportation boats, a number of gun boats and two torpedo boats. We are in hopes of being landed tonight but do  not know anything definite, as no one seems to know, or if they do, won't tell.  perhaps it is time I told you who I am, and will do so.  I used to work for you a number of years ago and have always thought a good deal of your paper and it does me good to know that I have at least tried to do something for it.  My name is Ernest H. Clemens.  I am well, but at this writing a little dizzy, but hope to be all right soon.  One man was taken aboard the hospital ship this afternoon, he had the measles they say, but I fear it is worse.  I am satisfied with leading the life of a soldier, but I am anxious to either take active part in a battle before long, as it is getting tiresome to be shut up in the ship when you can almost see the enemy.  I think they are going to shell the place to pieces before landing us. 

Ernest H. Clemens

6th U.S. Cavalry, Troop C

Care War Department, Washington, D.C.

P.S.--We got orders to land tomorrow the 22nd of June

 

First Norwich Boy to Die in The War With Spain

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, August 6, 1898

The first death to be reported among the few who enlisted for the war from this place [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] is that of Ernest H. Clemens, a member of Troop C, Sixth U.S. Cavalry.  Young Clemens, who was a son of Mrs. Rose Clemens of Maydole street, will be remember by a large number of Norwich people, who will hear with regret of his sad death. 

 

On the 9th of February, last, through the influence of Franklin B. Mitchell, the Rev. E.J. Klock and others, he secured an appointment as musician in the United States Military academy at West Point.  At the breaking out of the Spanish-American war, he enlisted as bugler in Troop C, Sixth U.S. Cavalry.  He was in all the hard fighting before Santiago and escaped without a wound, but disease, which is often more disastrous to an army than the enemy's bullets, claimed him as a victim after the fighting was over and the victory won. Tuesday night, his mother received a letter from G.C. Barnhardt, second lieutenant of his company, conveying to her the sad news of her son's death.  The letter, which bore the date of July 17th, announced that he had died of dysentery in the camp hospital, near Santiago de Cuba, on the previous day and had been buried in camp.  The officer paid the highest compliments to the dead boy, saying he had been a good soldier and had often proved his valor in the hard fight which they passed through.

 

The news of Ernest's death came as a sudden shock to Mrs. Clemens, who but a few days ago received form him a letter, written in German, of which the following is a translation:

 

Santiago De Cuba, July 8, 1898

Dear Mother--Your last letter just received, and I will answer you at once.  I see you have not received the money I sent.  Hope you will soon get it, for I know you need it and it will make you glad.  I am well and no one is sick here.  I have a number of letters yet to write, hope that you will get this all right.  Dear mother, I hope that you and Willie will keep well and I shall soon be home with you again.  I had a letter form Arthur Dibble and then this one from you is the first I have had in a month.  I wish you would send me the pictures if you can.  Take good care of yourself.

From your loving, thankful son.   Ernest

 

Ernest Clemens was born in Switzerland twenty years ago and came with his parents to this country when twelve years of age.  Since that time he has lived in Norwich until going to West Point.  He is survived by his mother and one brother, William, who have the sympathy of the entire community in their sad bereavement.

 

Clifford Houghton

Died at Santiago, September 1898

 

 

Clifford Houghton

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1899

 

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, September 14, 1898

HOUGHTON:  At Santiago, September --, 1898, of fever, Clifford Houghton, private in Company F, United States infantry, aged about 20 years.  Deceased was formerly of Norwich.

 

The death of Clifford Houghton at Santiago last Thursday, of typhoid fever, adds one more to the list of Norwich boys who gave their lives in the war with Spain.  Mr. Houghton was a son of Mrs. John W. Houghton of Piano street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], and a brother of Ross Houghton and Miss Orra Houghton of this village, and Fred Houghton of New York city, all of whom survive.  He was 22 years old, and enlisted in Company F, Ninth infantry, at Sacketts Harbor last January.  His body was buried at Santiago.

 

Norwich Honors the Memory of Two Patriotic Sons

Utica Saturday Globe, April 1899

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Two Norwich boys contributed their lives to the cause of the freedom of Cuba.  Both died at Santiago and the bodies were brought north in the transport which reached New York city last week.  Ernest H. Clemens died July 16, 1898, and Clifford J. Houghton in the early days of September [1898].  The remains of both arrived in Norwich by express last Saturday and were taken in charge by the undertakers.  Each was enclosed in a handsomely finished and hermetically sealed metallic case with oak exterior. The one containing the remains of Clemens was borne to Burr & Lawrence's undertaking rooms and the Houghton casket to the rooms of William Breese.  Each casket was enclosed in a strong, well-made pine box, inside of which was the board that had marked the grave at Santiago.  The board that had marked the grave of Clemens was 9 X 30 inches and had been artistically letter by his tent mate, Harry R. Pautley, of Newburg, N.Y.  It was inscribed:  "Ernest H. Clemens, Musician, Troop C, 6th Cavalry.  Died July 16, 1898."  The board was weather-beaten but the inscription could be easily read.  It has since been presented to E.B. Smith Post, G.A.R.  Houghton was a member of Company F, Ninth Regiment. The entire expense of the caskets and transportation from Santiago to Norwich was borne by the government.

 

On Monday afternoon there was a dual funeral, the remains being laid at rest in Mount Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY] with full military honors, the services being in charge of Smith Post, G.A.R.  The day was observed as a half holiday, the stores and factories generally being closed and flags displayed at half mast.

 

At 2 o'clock the funeral cortege started, led by carriages containing the clergy, followed by the two hearses, side by side, carrying the caskets, draped with the national colors and almost buried in flowers; the relatives of the deceased and citizens in carriages and twin processions on the sidewalks made up of members of the G.A.R., the Congregational Sunday School, the Fire Department and citizens.  On arriving at the bridge on South Broad street, the carriages paused while the pedestrians passed on and preceded them into the cemetery in the following order:

George W. Brooks, Marshal

Red Men's Enterprise Band

G.A.R Firing Squad, Comrade George Wood, Commander

Members of G.A.R.

The Sunday School f the Congregational Chruch

Alert Hose Company,No. 1

George Rider Hook and ladder Company

Maydole Hose Company, No. 2

Ontario Hose company, No. 3

Employees of the Silk Mill

Citizens, etc.

Carriages

 

The ceremonies at the cemetery were witnessed by several thousand people, gathered at a plot midway between the two graves, which were some distance apart.  The plot had been prepared for the service by spreading matting over a large, square space, in the middle of which the caskets were placed side by side, and surrounded by the relatives and friends. The impressive G.A.R. ritual was rendered by Commander George W. Payne, Mr. Walter Walworth, Lieut. Lucius Crumb and Sargt. Jerome Sherwood, after which the bodies were borne to their last resting places.  A brief prayer was offered at the grave of Clemens by Rev. E.J. Klock, and at the grave of Houghton by Rev. C.B. Parsons, of Oxford, after which the firing squad from their position half way between the two burial places fired three rounds from their muskets and the muffled drum sounded the long roll. The caskets were completely hidden from view by flags and flowers.

 

In the Clemens grave were deposited many miniature flags from the children of the Congregational Sunday school, of which he had been a member.  Six soldiers of the late war assisted as bearers.  The floral offerings were numerous and beautiful, among them being a harp from the employees of the Norwich Pharmacal Company, a wreath from employees of the Chenango Dyeing Company, a pair of palms and a bouquet of roses and carnations from employees of the Norwich Silk Manufacturing company.  The whole ceremony throughout was beautiful, appropriate and impressive.

 

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, April 5, 1899

Several thousand people proceeded with the funeral train to the cemetery where full military honors were to take place according to the ritual of the G.A.R. before consigning the remains to their last resting place. The graves were some distance apart, and as one service only was to be held, a carpet of matting had been spread about midway between the two graves.  Here the caskets were placed side by side in the center of a hollow square, surrounded by sorrowing relatives and friends, and by the different societies participating in the service.  The beautiful burial ceremony of the G.A.R. was rendered by Commander Payne, Adjutant Walworth, Lieutenant Crumb and Sergeant Sherwood.  The caskets were then removed to the family plots for burial where short services were held.  Rev. E.J. Klock having charge of those at the grave of Mr. Clemens, and Rev. C.P. Parsons of Oxford, at the grave of Mr. Houghton. At the close of prayer, the firing squad, which had taken up a position half way between the two places of burial, gave three volleys from their muskets, the muffled drum beat the long roll, and the remains of the two Norwich heroes who sacrificed their lives in the cause of humanity were consigned to mother earth.

 

The demonstration was most impressive, and the arrangements were successfully carried out. The soldiers of the Spanish war assisted as bearers, and many flags were displayed from residences and business places. the large flags on the Maydole Hammer factory staff, and on the High school building were at half mast.  Miniature flags were deposited in the graves, and the floral pieces were especially beautiful and appropriate.

 

 



Obituaries (February 16)

Thomas Dickinson

Chenango Union, May 14, 1885

We are sorry to announce the failing condition of our aged neighbor, Thomas Dickinson, Esq.  for about a year, Mr. Dickinson has been afflicted with a cancerous affection upon the face.  Last summer, in hopes of obtaining relief, he submitted to having it eaten out, but his age, some eighty odd years and enfeebled condition, were against its success, and he has gradually declined till now there is little hope of his surviving long.  Mr. Dickinson is the only surviving brother of the late Hon. D.S Dickinson, of Binghamton, and Hon. John R. Dickinson, of Washington.  An only sister, Mrs.. Alpheus Johnson, also quite aged, is yet living, we believe, near Afton

 

Chenango Union, May 28, 1885

DICKINSON:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], May 18th, Mr. Thomas Dickinson, aged 81 years.

 

F.D. Hunt

Chenango Union, May 14, 1885

We copy from the Leavenworth (Kansas) Times of the 6th inst., the following obituary of a former resident of Chenango county [NY].  the subject of the sketch was born in Smyrna, and some twenty-three years ago married Julia [McNitt], daughter of the late Morgan McNitt of North Norwich.  For some years he resided in the town of Plymouth, and was agent for a New York publishing house, introducing their school books.  He left for the west about fourteen years ago.

 

"The educational public of the West will be greatly surprised and pained to learn of the death of Mr. F.D. Hunt, which occurred at his residence in this city on Sunday evening last, after an illness of about a month.  Mr. Hunt has been prominently connected with the school book business of the Western states and territories for the past twenty years.  During the past ten he has lived in this city, acting as general agent for the house of A.J. Barnes & Co.  He was noted, among those who came in contact with him, for indomitable energy and sagacity in the management of his business, as well as for his kindly and sympathetic traits of character, which greatly endeared him to thousands of teachers throughout his field of work.  We learn that he leaves his family, consisting of a wife and five children, in comfortable circumstances.  His will power must have been remarkable, for, in spite of physical endowments rarely met with, he laid down his work at the age of forty-five, from sheer overwork.  Mr Hunt's extensive acquaintance and travels gave him large opportunities for influence in shaping the general educational policy of his field of work, and these he improved always for the good of the cause.  His loss will be mourned, especially among those who are prominent in the management of educational affairs, as a wise and unselfish counsellor, as well as by thousands in the humbler walks of the profession who have been cheered on their way by his precepts and example.  It will be a source of satisfaction to his more intimate friends to know that in his last hours of consciousness he expressed a Christian faith and resignation."

 

Hilley Coon

Otsego Journal, May 6, 1885

Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY]:  It is seldom indeed that we are called upon to chronicle an occurrence so melancholy as that which resulted in the death of Hilley Coon on Monday afternoon.  He was engaged in loading a car with lumber near the depot, the boards being passed to him by Decalvus Bowen.  The car was a flat, holding two tiers, the forward one being nearly complete when the accident occurred.  At the point where the car was standing on the switch a brook passes under the track, making a gully about four feet deep below the level of the road bed.  Between this side and main tracks where they cross the brook, is a space about two and one-half feet wide between the ends of the ties.  About two o'clock while placing the lumber, by some means unknown, he fell from the car to the bottom of the brook, the distance being about fourteen feet.  He was taken up in an unconscious condition, the blood gushing from his nose and right ear and carried to the house of Charles Chamberlin, who lives near by.  Dr. Smith being absent, a telegram was sent for Dr. Winans, of Gilbertsville.  He arrived too late, however, to see his patient alive, death having ensued about half an hour after the accident occurred, and before even his mother could reach his bedside.  No one saw him fall and it is conjectured that he slipped off the car backwards, and in falling, struck his head on the end of the tie of the main track, fracturing his skull at the base of the brain and behind his right ear.  His age was about sixteen years.  His father, Hiram Coon is in a somewhat critical condition from the effects of a severe hemorrhage with which he was attacked on Saturday while engaged in loading the same car of lumber. The blow is a severe one for both him and his wife, Hilley being their last living child.  They have the sympathy of all in this great and sudden affliction.  The funeral will take palce on Wednesday.

 

James Hiram Coon

April 1913

In the death of Mr. Coon there goes from among us one of the oldest and best known residents of the farming communities in this vicinity.  He passed away at his home across the river on Saturday evening, his death following a brief illness of but a few days' duration.  Mr. Coon had been practically disabled from rheumatism for years, but was able to come to this village frequently and to oversee the work of his farm until the day when he was seized by is last illness.  He was a good citizen, one of the kind whose lives of industry, thrift and honorable dealing wins the confidence and respect of their fellow men and lends solidity and character to communities.  He was a man who read much and kept well informed on the current events and history of the times,.  His domestic relations were marked by kindness, indulgence and consideration, traits as well calculated to promote happiness in families, but years ago himself and wife were bereaved of three daughters and an only son, who had they been spared might have been their hope and dependence in their old age.  Mr. Coon was married to Margaret A. Hastings in 1858.  for two years after their marriage they worked a farm in the vicinity of Gilbertsville and then moved upon their present farm, then owned and occupied by his father, James H. Coon, Sr.  They continued to reside with and care for his parents while they lived, the place having been their home for 53 years since they came there in 1860.  As stated above four children were born to them:  one daughter, Mrs. Mattie Lewis, died in 1881 at the home of her parents, two other daughters, Nettie and Chloe, having died in infancy years before; and the sad accident by which their son Hiram [Hilley Coon], lost his life at the age of 19 by a fall from a car he was helping load at the depot, it is still fresh in the memory of many.  His death occurred in May, 1885.  The wife of Mr. Coon survives him, and his loss, removing as it does the last member of her family is a grief appreciable only by those who have passed through the same great sorrow. The funeral occurred form the house on Wednesday at one o'clock, the service being conducted by Rev. John Yates of Gilbertsville. The burial was in Evergreen cemetery, White Store [Chenango Co.]. 

Marriages (February 16)

Powderly - Brooker

Utica Saturday Globe, May 1920

John & Margaret (Brooker) Powderly

 

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  In Syracuse [Onondaga Co., NY] on Sunday, May 16, occurred the marriage of Miss Margaret Brooker and John Powderly, of this city. the bride is the daughter of Alonzo Brooker, of Norwich, the proprietor of the Continental Hotel on Lackawanna avenue.  The groom is a world war veteran and both are well-known Norwich people.  Their  numerous friends extend hearty congratulations.  Mr. and Mrs. Powderly are on an automobile trip to Michigan City, Ind., where they will visit the bride's brother, Clarence Brooker.

 

Carpenter - Derby

Afton Enterprise, January 1, 1886

A happy occasion was that of the marriage in this village [Afton, Chenango Co., NY], Wednesday evening, at the residence of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. H.W. Derby, of Mr. S. Frank Carpenter, youngest son of Mr. D.A. Carpenter, and Miss Angie L. Derby.  The time of the ceremony was at seven o'clock p.m., and before that hour a large number of the immediate friends and relatives of the bride and groom had assembled in anticipation of the event.  At the appointed hour the bridal party entered the room where the ceremony was to be performed, and the Rev. A.J. Cook, pastor of the M.E. Church of Afton, united the couple in the bonds of matrimony.  Miss Crandall, of New York city, was bride's maid, and Mr. Geo. K. Landers, of Williamsport, Pa., acted as best man.  a profusion of congratulations followed until supper was announced, when the company adjourned to partake of the refreshments which had been provided with a liberal hand by the host and hostess.  Miss Derby is one of our finest young ladies, is a great favorite with all who know her, and we consider Frank a lucky young man in capturing the affections of so amiable and excellent a lady as his bride, who is possessed of every quality to make home a very attractive place.  Among those from out of town were Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Taylor, of Bainbridge.  The happy couple left on express train No. 3, the same evening, for New York city and other points of interest.  A large number of useful and ornamental presents were presented.  We extend our congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter and wish them a long life of usefulness and prosperity.

 

Doolittle - Hall

Afton Enterprise, January 2, 1896

At the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Norman Hall, on South Main street [Afton, Chenango Co., NY], Tuesday evening, occurred the marriage of their daughter, Nettie A. [Hall], to Mr. Elbert L. Doolittle, of Ouaquaga.  The ceremony was performed by Rev. R.B. Carruth.  Miss Ruby Landers, of Afton, acted as bridesmaid, and Mr. John Hurlburt, of Ouaquaga, as best man.  Only a few of the immediate friends of the bride and groom were present, and immediately after the nuptials all partook of an elegant repast.  The couple departed on train No. 3 the same evening for Binghamton and other  other points of interest.  Congratulations are extended to the happy couple.

 

Thomson - Briggs

Afton Enterprise, January 2, 1896

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

 

Chamberlin - Card

Afton Enterprise, January 2, 1896

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

 

Kekesch - Pope

Norwich Sun, May 18, 1920

Miss Dorothy Bell Pope, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hubert Pope of Utica [Oneida Co., NY] and Edward L. Kekesch, son of George E. Kekesch, also of Utica, were married in Utica on April 30, at the Trinity church by the Rev. Romeo C. Gould.  They were attended by Miss Henrietta Kekesch, a sister of the groom, and John Gavin.  Both the bride and her bride's maid wore tailored suits and carried bouquets of roses.  Mr. and Mrs. Kekesch left for a western trip, after which they will make their home at 429 Alken street, Utica.  Mrs. Kekesch is the granddaughter of Mrs. Almira Pope of Norwich.