Obituaries (December 22)

Andrew Lathrop
Chenango Telegraph, July 11, 1860

Andrew Lathrop, a son of Mr. Lathrop, of the firm of Lathrop, Ludington & Co., New York; was drowned at Cannonsville [Delaware Co., NY] Thursday P.M.  He was bathing with a son of Mr. Benj. Cannon and a son of Rev'd S.J. White.  He got beyond his depth and sank before the other boys could get assistance.  He had just come up with a little sister to spend the summer, and was in perfect ecstasies at the idea of having a good time.  His friends in the city will receive his body in the same train that brings them his first letter, saying that "he arrived safely, and was well and happy."  His age was thirteen, and he was a boy of much promise--Franklin Visitor.

Gershom Twitchell

Chenango Telegraph, July 11, 1860

Mr. Gershom Twitchell of Milford, who died on Friday last, after an illness of only two days, was the last member of a peculiar, and in some respects, a remarkable family.  Though a man of considerable wealth, owning one of the finest and most valuable farms in Milford, he persisted in living in a state of the most abject poverty.  On the announcement of his death, says a writer in the Boston Journal, the overseers of the poor took immediate steps to secure his estate for his legitimate heirs. They found in his hovel a large amount of silver, deposited in a pine box, nicely adjusted in layers of dollars, halves, quarters, and smaller coins.  They also found a bag in which there was a heavy amount of gold.  The specie was taken to the Milford Bank for safe keeping.  Nearly the last words uttered by the expiring miser were to request a neighbor who stood by him to leave the room, for fear he would steal the money.  His wife abandoned him many years ago, and recently, for a stipulated sum, gave bonds that she would make no claim upon any property he possessed.

Albert Murdock

Walton Reporter, January 26, 1940

Albert Murdock, 78, died Tuesday night, Jan. 23, at his home on Sheep Pen road, near Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], from a heart ailment.  Mr. Murdock was born near Trout Creek [Delaware Co., NY], Feb. 8, 1862, a son of John and Julia Murdock.  Over 50 years ago he married Miss Cora Gibbons, who died 45 years ago.  A farmer most of his life around Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], he moved to his late home on the Sheep Pen road about four years ago.  He is survived by a son, Raymond, who resided with him; a daughter, Mrs. John Swart; one granddaughter, Miss Shirley Swart, and one grandson, William Swart, all of Unadilla.  The funeral will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. at the Sherman funeral home in Unadilla.

Eliza J. McCurry

Walton Reporter, January 26, 1940

Mrs. Eliza J. McCurry, 78, better known as "Aunt Jennie," died suddenly at the home of her niece, Mrs. Gertrude Gould, at Long Eddy Tuesday night.  Mrs. McCurry had retired as usual Tuesday night and after midnight Mrs. Gould heard her moving in her room.  She went to the room and found Mrs. McCurry lying unconscious on the floor.  A physician was called from Roscoe, but Mrs. McCurry died before his arrival.  Funeral services were held at the Gould home Thursday afternoon and the body was then taken to Troy for burial.  She is survived by one sister, Mrs. John Collins, of Troy.

Clifford J. Carr

Walton Reporter, January 26, 1940

Clifford J. Carr died Monday night, Jan. 22, at his home, 429 Claremont avenue, New York city.  He was a son of Carey Carr of Loomis and besides his father is survived by his wife and four sisters Mrs. Irene Andrus of Oneonta, Mrs. Elma Storrer of Walton, Mrs. Hazel Shackelton of Franklin and Miss Lillian Carr of Laurens, and two brothers, Edward Carr of Unadilla and Howard Carr of South Kortright.  He was 38 years of age. The funeral will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. at Lyon Brothers' chapel, Rev. W.N. Tuttle officiating, with burial at Sidney Center [Delaware Co., NY].

Bainbridge High Teachers - Part 3

Bainbridge Central High School - 1959 Teachers

"Echo" 1959

+

Junior High English

James Palmer, Carolyn Lord

Left to Right

Virginia Butler, Junior High Citizenship Education

Margaret Cheesbro, Junior High Math

Lauren Vredenburgh, Junior High Science

Left to Right

Charles Albert, Junior High Guidance

Ella Marie Southern, Vocal Music

Thomas Braccio, instrumental Music

Left to Right

Lucille Kinney, Art

Clara Niles, Library

Left to Right

Dorothy Corbin, Homemaking

Franklin Huggins, Drivers Education, Audio Visual, & Elementary Physical Education

Obituaries (December 21)

Urias Cristman

South New Berlin Bee, June 27, 1914

Urias Cristman

1828 - 1914

On June 17, 1914 on the farm that had been his home for three quarters of a century, occurred the death of Urias Cristman, and with his passing away ended a long and busy life worthy the emulation of all who were privileged to know this genial kindly man.  He was born in Herkimer, N.Y., September 19, 1828, the son of John Cristman and Catherine Shell Cristman, the only son in a family of six of whom but one, Mrs. Parmelia Pope, of Binghamton, survives.  On April 12, 1840, at the age of twelve, Mr. Cristman came with the family to this place [South New Berlin, Chenango Co., NY] and here the years of his earlier labors and of his later ease were passed.  He married on August 26, 1858, Ellen Kellogg.  Two sons were born to them, George of New Berlin and John who resides with his family on the home farm.  Mrs. Cristman died May 11, 1899.  

Possessed to the last of a memory that recalled in detail the events of a generation that is gone, he was a most interesting and entertaining acquaintance.  The early history of both this section and of the Mohawk Valley the houses, the families, the Indian raids, the Revolutionary activities, learned in his childhood from those who were participators in those early scenes were to the last fresh in his memory.  His mind was a vast repository of local history and his death removes the last link that binds this generation to times and events that to us is but a matter of history.  Urias Cristman was the embodiment of all those splendid qualities which marked the Mohawk Valley settlers at their best.  To a clear and far sighted mental vision he added a calm and dispassionate judgment that made him the most trusty of advisers.  But above his singularly strong mental endowments, there was always conspicuous the even stronger moral attributes of the man.  No one ever thought it necessary to ask on which side of a moral question Urias Cristman stood.  He had been for many years a member of the Morris Baptist church and his faith in the realities of his religion, like that of many men of decided opinion, was strong and free from doubts.  In his death this community has lost an earnest, honest and high-minded citizen, and its people a kindly, genial and steadfast friend.  

He is survived by two sons, George and John, by four grandchildren, Glen, the son of George, and by Walter, Emily, Helen and Anna Belle, children of John Cristman, and by three great grandchildren, Donald, son of Walter, and Evaline and Roy, children of Glen Cristman. The funeral was held on  onFriday at the farm house that had so long been his home, the Rev. L.E. Wheeler officiating.

Henry R. Paddleford

South New Berlin Bee, June 27, 1914

Coventry [Chenango Co., NY]:  Henry R. Paddleford, who has been in poor health for the last year died June 17, 1914, age 71 years, 8 months, 3 days.  He was a good citizen and much respected by all who knew him.  He was a kind husband, a loving father and had a good word for every one.  He will be greatly missed by all.  His funeral was held at the house Saturday at 11 o'clock with Rev. Percy Alton officiating.  He leaves a wife, one son, Wilson Paddleford, one grandson, Guy Paddleford, one sister, Mrs. Charles Phinney, one brother, E. Paddleford and  a large circle of relatives and friends.  He was laid to rest in Sylvan lawn Cemetery [Greene, Chenango Co., NY].

Ormond Eugene Tyler

South New Berlin Bee, September 9, 1916

The death of Ormond Eugene Tyler occurred at his home 735-1/2 Otawa street, Los Angeles, Calif., Aug. 30, 1916, aged 72 years.  Ormond Eugene Tyler, second son of Sarah Parcelie and Orvile Tyler, was born in South New Berlin, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], September 3, 1844.  He came to Waukesha, Wisconsin, with his parents when a young man. Enlisted in the army, in Company A, 39th Wisconsin.  Was married to Miss Mary Bancroft May 15, 1873.  One daughter was born to them.  He came to California in 1882.  He is survived by his wife and daughter.  The funeral was held Saturday, Sept. 2, at 10 a.m., from the Los Angeles Crematory, corner of Sixteenth and Grover streets.

Alexiewna (Reynolds) Greene

South New Berlin Bee, March 17, 1917

Mrs. Alexiewna Greene, widow of Adolphus T. Greene, died at the home of her daughter Mrs. Burton Sage in Holmesville [Chenango Co., NY], Wednesday morning March 7, 1917, aged 73 years.  She had been ill for some time, with an incurable disease, and patiently waited for the summons to come.  Mrs. Greene was the daughter of Jacob and Lucy Reynolds, and was born at White Store [Chenango Co., NY], March 12, 1844. She was of a family of five children only one of whom survives, a brother, Hiram Reynolds of Rockwells, Mills.  She was married to Adolphus T. Greene of White Store in 1861, and there most of her life was spent.  Two children survive, a son, Nelson P. Greene of South New Berlin, and a daughter, Mrs. Burton Sage of Holmesville, with whom she resided, and by whom she was tenderly cared for during her illness.  Her devotion to her home and family was a marked characteristic of her nature, and she was ever ready to lend a helping hand in time of need, whenever health would permit.  Funeral services were largely attended on Saturday afternoon, March 10, Rev. L.E. Wheeler of South New Berlin officiating.  Musical selections were rendered by Mrs. J.P. McGuire and Miss Normina Beckley, both of South New Berlin.  There were floral offerings of unusual beauty, showing the esteem in which she was held.  Mrs. Greene was buried in Evergreen cemetery, White Store, by the side of her husband who died October 4, 1906.

Samantha A. (Whitman) Dexter

South New Berlin Bee, November 29, 1919

Samantha A. Dexter, aged 68 years, wife of Arnold Dexter, passed away very suddenly at her home in Holmesville [Chenango Co., NY], Wednesday evening, November 19, 1919, at 10:30 o'clock.  She was first taken ill Sunday, when it was thought that she had the influenza, but she had gotten better and Wednesday had set up all day.  She went to bed at about six o'clock. At about eight o'clock she called to her husband and he being alarmed at her condition, called in a neighbor and hastened to call a physician and telephone his son, Floyd Dexter of South New Berlin.  When they reached there, she had lost consciousness and died at 10:30, heart disease being the immediate cause of her death.  Samantha A. Dexter was born in Masonville [Delaware Co., NY], March 6, 1851, one of ten children in the family of Stephen and Mary Brown Whitman, of whom two survive her:  John Whitman of Masonville and Mrs. Peter Couse of Deposit.  The most part of her life was spent in the vicinity of Holmesville.  Forty-eight years ago she was married to Arnold Dexter and to them was born one son, Floyd, of South New Berlin.  About thirteen years ago they sold their farm in the Brooker District and moved to Holmesville where she died.  Mrs. Dexter was a member of the Holmesville Baptist church and records show that she was the last living member, having joined the church before her marriage.  She was of an ambitious nature and up to the time of her death she was always thinking and doing for others, and it can be truly said that she gave her life for others. She was a much loved mother and grandmother in the home she has left.  Mrs. Dexter leaves beside the near relatives already mentioned a great number of nieces and nephews, who deeply mourn her loss.  Funeral services were held privately from the home Saturday afternoon at 1 o'clock and interment made at South New Berlin, Rev. Clough of Mt. Upton officiating.  Relatives and friends from out of town are:  Mr. and Mrs. Peter Couse; Mr. and Mrs. Hayes Mosher, Mrs. Will Fox and Mrs. Smith, all of Deposit;  Miss Broad and Mrs. Philley, of Afton; Mr. and Mrs. Clayton Scribner, of Unadilla; John Whitman, Mr. and Mrs. Austin Gifford, Mr. and Mrs. Hobart Couse, all of Masonville; Mr. and Mrs. Clark of Earlville; Mr. and Mrs. Albert Dexter and Bert Dexter, of Morris; William H. Sage, of Norwich; and Dan Woodmansee, of Latham's Corners.   ---By the only grandson.

Obituaries (December 19)

Helen R. (Johnson) Chadwick

Bainbridge Republican, March 29, 1951

Helen R. Chadwick was born in Morristown, Sept. 14, 1868, the daughter of Thomas and Rozellita Robertson Johnson.  She spent most of her life in that village, where she was active in church and community affairs.  During the past few years because of failing health she has spent the winter months with her son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. N.E. Stapleton, in Guilford, where she has made many friends.  Besides the daughter, she is survived by two sons, Harold T. Chadwick, of Burlington, Vt., and William E. Chadwick of Winter, Wis; 12 grandchildren; 33 great grandchildren; a brother, Loren D. Wilson of Gambrells, Md., and several nieces and nephews.  One son, Robert J. Chadwick, died during World War I.  Mr. and Mrs. H.J. Chadwick, William Chadwick, Mr. Wilson and a grandson, Robert Stapleton, have been at the Stapleton home to be near Mrs. Chadwick during the two weeks since she was stricken with a cerebral hemorrhage on Mar. 9.  She passed away quietly on Mar. 24, early morning.  A prayer service was held at the Seymour Funeral Home Sunday evening at 8 o'clock, conducted by the Rev. C. Duane Butler.  Funeral services will be held in the Methodist Church in Morristown, Tuesday, Mar. 27, at 2 o'clock, the Rev. M.E. Ornum, of Theresa, officiating, assisted by the Rev. H.S. Hill, of Morristown, and the Rev. A. John Skeirik, of Mt. Upton.

Betty Anderson

Bainbridge Republican, March 29, 1951

State police and Dr. Everett Centerwall, Chenango County  Coroner, are investigating the death at her home Friday of Mrs. Betty Anderson, 23, of R.D. Greene.  Mrs. Anderson lived in a tenant house on the Herbert Churchmen farm with her husband, George, who found the body.  Also participating in the investigation are District Attorney David F. Lee, Jr., and Sheriff Frank Machio.  Other survivors are her mother, Mrs. Floyd Norton, of R.D. Greene; a brother, William Norton, of Chenango Forks.  Mrs. Anderson was a member of the community Methodist church, of Smithville Center.  Funeral services were held at the Root Funeral Home in Greene, Monday, at 2 p.m.  The Rev. George Haase, pastor of the Congregational Church of Coventryville, officiated. Burial was in Glen Castle Cemetery.

Ellen Minerva Wade

Bainbridge Republican, March 29, 1951

Ellen Minerva Wade, 82, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], succumbed at the Chenango Memorial Hospital at 7:30 Thursday morning.  She was taken in Monday night and discovered by neighbors who had missed seeing her about her home.  They found her unconscious in her room.  She was admitted to the hospital Tuesday morning.  Born June 22, 1868, at Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], she was the daughter of Eddy and Erviette Root Wade.  Her youth was passed here.  During the past 30 years she made her home in Norwich, where for many years she served as housekeeper for R.D. Eaton.  A communicant of the Broad Street Methodist Church, the late Miss Wade was active in church affairs. She was a member of the WSCS, WCTU and King's Daughters organizations.  Amiable and cheerful, her kindly nature endeared her to all who knew her.  A woman of Christian character, she leaves many friends who will learn with sorrow of her passing.  Surviving are three sisters, Mrs. Cora Yale and Mrs. Mary Dexter, Guilford, and Mrs. Libby Gridley, Bainbridge, also several nieces, nephews ad grandnieces and grand-nephews.  Funeral and committal services were held at the Robert J. Fahy Funeral Home Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock. The Rev. Thomas G. Swales, pastor of the Broad Street Methodist Chruch, officiated. The body was placed at rest in the Mt. Hope chapel vault with burial to be made in Guilford cemetery at a later date.

Death Notices

Chenango Union, November 4, 1875

EDWARDS:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 13, 1875, Eugene B. Edwards, son of Chas. Edwards, on Lock St., aged 20 years.

WADE:  At the Halfway House [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], Nov. 2, 1875, Willie Sands, son of Henry L. Wade, aged 7 years.

BARTLE:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 27, 1875, Christina [Bartle], wife of A.F. Bartle, aged 66 years.

DAVIS:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], Sept. 18, Mrs. Celinda Davis, aged 66 years.

NYE:  In North Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], Oct., Mr. Samuel L. Nye, aged about 60 years.

SHATTUCK:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Oct. 21, 1875, Elizabeth [Shattuck], wife of David Shattuck, aged 38 years.

Obituaries (December 18)

Alexander Totman

Utica Saturday Globe, February 1903

Alexander Totman

1836-1903

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Alexander Totman, a prominent resident and real estate dealer of this village, died in St. Joseph's Hospital, Syracuse [Onondaga Co., NY], on Tuesday evening last.  About 10 days before he went to the hospital for an operation, to which he submitted, and the shock proved too great.  Mr. Totman was born in Freetown, Cortland county, April 1, 1836.  He was the son of Edsell and Maria Maydole Totman.  In 1859 his parents moved to Pharsalia, where he grew to manhood and married Miss Ellen Crandall, daughter of Albah Crandall, immediately after which he came to this village and found employment in the Maydole Hammer factory, of which his uncle was the founder and where he remained for 30 years.  He started in an humble position and worked his way up until he was superintendent of the works when he resigned about 10 years ago, and had since engaged exclusively in the real estate business, in which he had been extensively interested for several years.  He was an excellent citizen and lived a useful though quiet and unostentatious life.  Less than a year ago he was bereaved by the loss of his wife, in April, 1902.  An only child died in infancy.  Five brothers and two sisters survive:  Rev. A.N. Totman, of Benson, Neb.; Darwin Totman, of Cortland; Edsell Totman, of Creston, Ia.; Dr. David M. Totman, of Syracuse; Adelbert Totman, of Waterville; Mrs. Alonzo Blackman of Norwich, and Mrs. Emery Bowdish, of Cortland. Funeral services were held on Thursday afternoon, Rev. Wilson Treible officiating. Burial in Mt. Hope Cemetery [Norwich, NY].

Morning Sun, Norwich, NY, February 26, 1903

At St. Joseph's hospital, in Syracuse, Alexander Totman, a prominent resident of this town [Norwich, NY], died at 8 o'clock Tuesday evening.  About two weeks ago, he left here for Syracuse to enter the hospital for treatment.  He underwent an operation, but had not the strength and vitality to rally.  He had been afflicted with the disease, for which he was operated upon, for some six years.  The news of his death came with shocking suddenness to his fellow townsmen, for very few knew of his actual condition.  His business activity had been so great even up to the time he left for Syracuse, that few suspected that he was other than strong and vigorous.  His remains were brought here yesterday and taken to his fine residence on West Hill.

Alexander Totman was born in Freetown, Cortland county, April 1, 1836, and was the son of Edsel Totman and Moriah Maydole Totman.  In 1850 his parents moved to Pharsalia.  His youth and early manhood were spent upon his father's farm.  In 1863 he was united in marriage to Miss Ellen Crandall, daughter of Alvah Crandall, of Pharsalia.

Immediately following his marriage, the young couple came to Norwich, and Alexander, or "Alex" as he was more familiarly and universally known, obtained employment in the Hammer factory of his uncle, David Maydole.  He began his career in the factory at the foundation and worked himself up through every department until he knew how to make a hammer, that would bear the test and critical inspection of his uncle, David's, experienced eye.  So faithful was he in the performance of every duty and in his zeal, that from 1872 to 1880, it is recorded of him that he never missed a day from the factory.  He was gradually advanced until he became superintendent, which position he held for seven years and until he resigned in 1892 to engage in the real estate business.

At the time of the sale of the Guernsey property, in the later '70s, he made quite large purchases of land, especially of what was known as the West hill tract.  this he plotted into lots and was very successful in disposing of the same. He also about this time built the large and iimposing brick house which he occupied as a home until his death.  Upon retiring from his position of superintendent of the hammer factory, he devoted his entire time to the management of his own real estate and of that of his numerous clients.  How successful he was as seller of real estate, the files of the Sun for the last few years amply testify.

His wife died April 7, 1902, and their only child died in infancy.  He is survived by five brothers, Dr. David M. Totman of Syracuse, Rev. A.M. Totman of Bennin, Neb., who was for several years the pastor of the Free Baptist Church of this place, A.R. Totman of Waterville, N.Y., E.S. Totman of Cortland; also two sisters, Mrs. C.E. Bowdish of Cortland, and Mrs. Alonzo Blackman of Norwich.

Alexander Totman was a model citizen.  Honest, upright, kind-hearted, modest, retiring, thinking no ill and doing no wrong, diligent in his own business and in that entrusted to him, reliable in every position to which he was called, he leaves behind him an honorable record and a career which every young person in our midst would do well to emulate and try to copy.  His funeral will be attended from his late residence, this, Thursday, afternoon at 2 o'clock, Rev. Wilson Treible of the M.E. church, of which Mr. Totman was a constant attendant, officiating.  Interment in the family plot in Mt. Hope.

Ellen Crandall Totman

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, April 9, 1902

Ellen Crandall, wife of Alexander Totman of this village [Chenango Co., NY], died at her residence on West Main street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] early Saturday morning, April 5, 1902, aged 58 years.  She had been in poor health for some time, her ambitious disposition and energetic nature, however, sustaining her well toward the end of life.  Deceased was born in Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], July 6, 1843, and was the youngest child of Alvah and Abigail Crandall, sturdy and respected people.  In November 1862, she was married to Alexander Totman and came to Norwich the following March to reside.  One child, a son, Frank, was born of this union February 28, 1864, who died, however, seven months afterward.  Mrs. Totman was a very active, ambitious woman in her earlier years. She took great interest in whatsoever appealed to her as worthy of effort.  She became an active member of the Broad Street Methodist church, where she will be greatly missed.  she was also much interested in her home and family.  She was a good wife and a good neighbor and had a great many friends.

Elmer E. Singer

Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 26, 1894

The body of Elmer E. Singer, of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY] was found in the Whitney woods near the city, Tuesday night of last week.  He was a cigar maker by trade, but had been out of work for some time, having last been acting as collector for an insurance company.  It is thought he took morphine to deaden the pain of a headache and this caused his death.

Rochester Democrat & Chronicle, July 18, 1894

Binghamton, N.Y.:  The dead and badly decomposed body of Elmer E. Singer, an insurance collector, living on Chestnut street, this city, was found in Whitney's woods near the outskirts of the city this afternoon.  The body was so badly decomposed as to be unrecognizable, but papers in the pockets proved the man's identity.  He disappeared from his home one week ago.  The cause of death is unknown, but it is thought to be either suicide or the result of excessive drinking.  He was employed by the Prudential Insurance Company.  Coroner Hills will investigate.

Mrs. L.C. Pollard

 Bainbridge Republican, February 17, 1888

Mrs. L.C. Pollard died in this village [Afton, Chenango Co., NY] last Wednesday morning, aged 78 years.  Mrs. Pollard had been a resident of Afton for many years, until about two years ago, when she went to Binghamton to reside with her daughter Mrs. L.S.  Nye, and was spending the winter at her old home in this place, where she had lived for 50 years, when she was called home. The funeral was held Friday and the remains were deposited in Glenwood cemetery [Afton, NY] -- Afton Enterprise.

Blog Post listing December 5 - 17, 2017

Listing of blog postings for December 5-17, 2017

Obituaries

Posted December 5, 2017

Isaac B. PerLee (Greene, 1901)

John W. Osgood (Cincinnatus, 1901)

George W. Connelly (Atlantic City NJ, Greene, 1901)

John L. Smith (Greene, 1902)

Mrs. Edward R. Bolt (Greene, 1903)

Posted December 6, 2017
Nettie Miles Brookins (North Norwich, 1943)
Addie M. Phetteplace (Haynes, 1938)
Benjamin S. Pierce (Plymouth, 1943)
Ruth Pearsall Cooley (Mt. Upton, 1946)

Posted December 10, 2017
Harriet Gage (Binghamton, South New Berlin, 1914)
Dr. John T. Hand (South New Berlin, 1914)
Ery Camp (South New Berlin, 1937)
Emory J. Burke (South New Berlin, 1937)

Posted December 12, 2017
Louis Henry Sheff (New Berlin, 1945)
Martha B. (Gibson) Thompson (Norwich, 1945)
Etta F. (Ballard) Potter (Edmeston, 1945)
Death Notices - 1875
     Julia Randall Conkey (Norwich, 59y)
     Eunice Barber (Norwich, 86y)
     Paris G. Holley (Smyrna, 83y)
     Hannah (Record) Messenger (Smyrna, 75y)
     Ettie Houck (Mt. Upton, 18y)
     Dennis Troy (Oxford, 80y)
     Margaret Tuttle (Greene, 52y)
     Selina Foote (Bennettsville, 60y)
     Philo Hoag (Elmira, Bainbridge, 40y)

Posted December 13, 2017
Lynn L. Brookins (North Norwich, 1905)
John Wiley (Page Brook, 1887)
Charles C. Gager (Norwich, 1887)

Posted December 14, 2017
Humphrey Sisson (Norwich, 1847)
Herman Sherwood (Unadilla, 1880)
Olny Winsor (Bainbridge, 1880)
Benson Lewis (Delhi, 1880)
Zachariah C. Curtis (Rockdale, 1892)
William Corbin (Bennettsville, 1875)

Posted December 15, 2017
William A. Hoy (Bovina Center, 1940)
Mary S. Granger (Franklin, 1940
Frank Samuel Keery (Walton, 1940)
Lucius Benjamin (South New Berlin, Tompkins, 1940)
Death notices - 1875
     Oren Benton (Dakota City IA, Afton, 68y)
     James Curtis (Addison, 48y)
     Sally St. John (Binghamton, 90y

Posted December 17, 2017
Spencer F. Allis (Greene, 1888) accidental death
Mrs. Frank Nevell (Sidney, 1894)
Katherine/Catherine E. Mabon (Oxford, Fayetteville, 1894)



Miscellaneous

Posted December 13, 2017

The Unidentified Burglar - Nineveh, NY - 1887

Posted December 14, 2017
Bainbridge High School, Class of 1959 - Part 7

Posted December 15, 2017
Bainbridge High School, Teacher Portraits,  Kindergarten through 3rd grade, 1959

Posted December 17, 2017
Bainbridge High School, Teacher Portraits, 4th - 6th grade, special, 1959

BCHS Teachers 1959 - Part 2

Bainbridge Central High School Teachers

"Echo" 1959

Fourth Grade:  Louise Weeks, Dorothy Earl, Rena Besemer

Fifth Grade:  Harriet Williams, Emma Sherman, Phebe Shubert

Sixth Grade:  Gertrude Stiles, Mary Lawrence, Altha Salzberg

Left:  Marietta Darling, Remedial Reading

Dorothy Howland, Elementary Physical Education

Left:  Edwin Strout, Elementary Art

Judith Hewitt, Elementary Music

Obituaries (December 17)

 Spencer F. Allis

Chenango American, Greene, NY, February 9, 1888

Spencer F. Allis, a well known and respected citizen of this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], died at his residence, Sunday morning, at about 7 o'clock.  The circumstances attending his death were, as we understand them, as follows.  Saturday afternoon, between 2 and 3 o'clock, he went home from downtown, and told his wife that he had a severe headache, and said he would go to bed and see if that would relieve him of his pain.  In a short time he was found to be very ill, and almost immediately sank into an unconscious state, from which he never rallied.  Drs. G.O. Williams and L.M. Johnson were called, and treated the patient for poisoning.  It was discovered that he had taken home a bottle of laudanum, and his symptoms strongly indicated the effects of this drug.  The poison had become absorbed into his system, thus making the efforts of his physicians to save his life unavailing.  Coroner S.L. Smith, of Smithville Flats, was notified, and on Monday he summoned a jury, who after investigation, pronounced it a case of accidental poisoning.  An account of their deliberations may be found below.  Mr. Allis moved to this village from Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], his native town, several years ago, for the purpose of giving his children better school advantages that they could get there, and to escape the hardships of farm life.  He was one of Coventry's most prominent and trusted men, and had represented that town as Supervisor for several terms, with marked ability.  He was a shrewd business man, and a genial, whole-souled citizen.  His sad and untimely ending will not only bring deep sorrow to his family, but to a large circle of friends, who have known him from his boyhood days until the present.  His funeral took place from his residence at 11 o'clock Tuesday morning, and was attended by the members of Nemaha Tribe of Red Men, to which organization the deceased belonged, and a large number of our citizens.  The interment took place at Coventry.

State of New York, County of Chenango,

An inquisition taken for the people of the State of New York, at the house of Spencer F. Allis, in the town of Green in said County of Chenango on the 6th day of February, 1888, before me, Dr. S.L. Smith, one of the coroners in and for said County, upon the view of the body of Spencer F. Allis, then and there lying dead, upon the oaths of Dr. L.C. Silvernail, John W. Davidson, W.W. Davis, E.D. Morse, J.B. Salisbury, E.B. Wheeler, A.E. Fox, J.E. Bartoo, D.F. Smith, E.S. Walker, good and lawful men of the said County, who being duly sworn to inquire, on the part of the people of said State, into all the circumstances attending the death of the said Spencer F. Allis and by whom the same was produced; and in what manner; and when and where the said Spencer F. Allis came to his death, do say, upon their oaths as aforesaid that Spencer F Allis came to his death by an overdose of laudanum taken accidentally by his own hand.  In witness whereof, as well the said coroner, as the jurors, aforesaid, have to this inquisition set their hands and seals, on the day of the date of this inquisition, as aforesaid.

Mrs. Frank Nevell

Sidney Record, December 8, 1894

The news of Mrs. Frank Nevell's death last Saturday was heard with profound regret by the numerous friends of the family.  Mrs. Nevell died of pneumonia after a very brief illness, leaving a husband and four children to mourn her said and untimely loss.  The funeral took place last Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock p.m. in the Episcopal church.  Rector Fenwick, assisted by Rev. Walter Bentley, of Bainbridge, officiated, and the remains were laid at rest in Prospect Hill cemetery [Sidney, Delaware Co., NY].  The family have the individual sympathy of a host of warm friends in the severe loss they have sustained.  There is no greater loss in the family circle than that of a mother, especially when children become the sufferers.  Few can replace the loss of a true and good mother.  The whole earth contains no more sacred tie.  Mr. Nevell wishes to express his gratitude to all those who kindly assisted him in his dark hour of distress.

Katherine E. Mabon

Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 26, 1894

Rev. Father G.B. Mabon will have the sympathy of the community in the bereavement which has befallen him in the death of his mother, Katherine E. Mabon, which occurred at St. Joseph's rectory Sunday morning.  She had been ill for some months.  Funeral services will be held at St. Joseph's church on Wednesday, at 10 a.m.  Interment will be at Fayetteville [Onondaga Co., NY].  -- Oxford Times

The Fayetteville Weekly Recorder, July 26, 1894

Catherine Rebecca Mabon, died at the home of her son, Rev. G.S. Mabon, at Oxford, N.Y. [Chenango Co., NY], Sunday morning, July 22, aged 64 years.  She will be remembered here by many as part of her life was passed on the farm at Dry Hill.  In 1878, with her husband, the late Patrick Mabon, she removed to Harney City, Oregon, where they remained until three years ago, when on account of failing health, they removed east, and made their home with their son, Rev.  Father Mabon, at Oxford.  Feb. 13, 1893, the death of the husband occurred, since which time Mrs. Mabon had gradually failed in health, until her death was daily expected.  She was endowed with many noble qualities, was a true Christian, a kind and sympathizing friend, and the homes she has brightened by her presence will deeply mourn her demise. She had many friends both here and at Harney City, Oregon.  The late Arch-Bishop Seagers of Oregon, whose works as missionary in that region received considerable national attention, was a personal friend of the deceased.  Harney Valley, at that time, was a comparatively new country, and during the Arch-Bishop's visits to Harney City, he always made his home at Mrs. Mabon's.  He was afterwards assassinated while doing missionary duty among the Aleska Indians.

The deceased leaves four sons, Rev. George S., of Oxford, and John, James and William of Harney City, Oregon.  The funeral services were held at Oxford yesterday and were largely attended.  Business was generally suspended.  The employees of the quarries of the various blue-stone companies located near Oxford attended the funeral in a body.  Mass of Requiem was celebrated by her former pastor, Rev. J.A. O'Reilly of Clinton, Formerly of Fayetteville, Rev. Martin J. Hughes, of St. Mary's church, Binghamton, was deacon, Rev. J.V. Donelley, of Waterville, sub-deacon, and Rev. J.V. Byrne, of St. Patrick's church, Binghamton and Rev. W.F. Dwier, of St. John's Oswego, masters of ceremony.

Rev. Father O'Reilly preached the sermon, and it was considered one of his best efforts.  He paid a glowing tribute to the memory of one who had labored with him upon the establishing of the mission at Fayetteville, and spoke feelingly of her kindness to him at all times.  Among the other clergymen present, who assisted at the services, singing the responses of the Mass, were Rev. Fathers J.A. Hart and J.J. Higgins, of Norwich; Joseph Leichner, Binghamton; Thomas Hughes, Hancock; B.A. Stack and J. Moore, Utica, W.A. Ryan, Camillus; W.H. Slavin, Chittenango; Bernard Quinn, Deerfield, and J.J. Ward, Sherburne.  The pall bearers consisted of the following members fo the Catholic Young Men's Club of Oxford, viz, D.C. Flynn, J.D. Murphy, D.F. Conroy, M.J. Byrne, P.A. Murphy, and Thos. Callaghan.  The remains were brought here [Fayetteville] from Oxford, yesterday, in charge of the pall bearers, and were accompanied by Rev. G.S. Mabon and brother, John J. Mabon, and niece, Miss Emily Mabon, Mrs. T.A. Brady and daughter, of Ramsey, N.J., E.H. Foley, Supt. of the quarries of the Solvay Process Co., and sister, Miss Augusta Foley, of Syracuse, misses Lucy Milan and Mary A. O'Conner of Oxford and Mary A. Flynn of New Hartford.  A large congregation assembled at the Church of the Immaculate conception this (Thursday) morning to pay a farewell tribute to the memory of the deceased.  Requiem Mass was celebrated by Rev. J.J McLoughlin of Cortland as celebrant, Rev. W.H. Slavin of Chittenango, deacon, and Rev. Joseph Hopkins of Syracuse, sub-deacon, and Rev. P.F. McEvoy, Chancellor of the diocese, master of ceremonies.  Rev. M.J. Clune, rector of the cathedral, Syracuse, delivered a very able and scholarly sermon.  Gregorian's Mass was most creditably rendered by the choir, Miss Louise Hueber presiding at the organ.  The floral tributes were many and beautiful testifying to the esteem she was held in by her friends. Among the pieces were two pillows, "to mother" and "to auntie," wreath, sickle, pillow from friends, several crosses and large numbers of cut flowers.

Bainbridge High Teachers - 1959

Bainbridge Central High School - Teacher Portraits

"Echo" 1959

Kindergarten:  Phyllis Palmer, Eleanor Groff

First Grade:  Alice Davenport, Norma Packer, Genevra Plosky

Second grade:  Dolores Herrick, Margaret Hohreiter, Gertrude Daugherty

Third grade:  Mildred Parish, Beatrice Hauber, Alice Green

Obituaries (December 15)

William A. Hoy

Walton Reporter, January 26, 1940

William A. Hoy, a lifelong resident of Bovina Center [Delaware Co., NY], died Friday night, Jan. 19.  Death was caused by a heart ailment from which he had suffered for several years.  Mr. Hoy was born in the town of Bovina, Oct. 17, 1866, the son of Thomas A. and Julia Ann Tuttle Hoy.  In 1891 he was married to Robena Gow, who died in 1932.  For many years he was a teacher in the Bovina schools, giving this up to take up farming on what was known as the Hastings farm in the village of Bovina Center.  In 1925 he sold the farm to his son, Lester T. Hoy, but continued to live in the village, having previously purchased and moved to the property adjoining the farm home.  During the latter years of his life he spent much of his time working among his flowers, from which he derived a great deal of pleasure.  He is survived by the above mentioned son, Lester T. Hoy, on the home farm; a son, James A. Hoy, who lived with his father; a daughter, Hazel, now Mrs. Harold Robinson, of Bainbridge; and three grandchildren, Robert Hoy, William A. Hoy and James A. Hoy, jr.  Another daughter, Beatrice Darlin, died Jan. 1, 1937.  Funeral services were held at the home Monday at 2 o'clock.  Mr. Hoy was a member of the united Presbyterian church and his pastor, Rev. Harvey McClellan, officiated at the funeral.

Mary S. Granger

Walton Reporter, January 26, 1940

Miss Mary S. Granger, a resident of Franklin {Delaware Co., NY], died at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Burton Bugbee at 4 p.m. last Thursday, Jan. 18.  She had been in ill health for about a year, suffering from pernicious anemia.  About Oct. 1 she went to the Bugbee home, to be cared for.  She was born at North Walton [Delaware Co., NY] on April 30, 1866, daughter of Dennis Granger and Amanda Breesee Granger.  For many years of her early life she followed the vocation of teacher in district schools.  She has been a resident of Franklin for 35 years, living in an apartment in the Bee Hive at the corner of Main and Water streets.  She was a member of the Methodist church and attended all of its services as long as she was able.  She is survived by several cousins.  She had many friends here who sincerely mourn her loss.  Funeral services were held at the Methodist church on Sunday afternoon at 2:30 and the body was placed in the vault of the Ouleout Valley cemetery for burial in the spring.  Her pastor, Rev. S.E. Sargeant of the Methodist church officiated.

Frank Samuel Keery

Walton Reporter, January 26, 1940

Frank Samuel Keery died very suddenly Wednesday morning Jan. 24, of a heart attack while working in the office of the Neal Floral company in Walton [Delaware co., NY].  Mr. Keery has been employed as an accountant by the Neal company for several years and had gone to work Wednesday morning as usual.  He had only been there a short time when he was seized with a heart attack and died a few minutes later.  Mr. Keery was born at Edmonton, London, England, on July 11, 1869.  His early life was spent in England and he fought in South Africa during the Boer war.  In 1903 he was united in marriage to Miss Delia Mary Berkery and about twenty-five years ago Mr. and Mrs. Keery came to this country.  They resided at Hancock and Downsville before coming to Walton a number of years ago.  During his residence here Mr. Keery has made many friends to whom news of his sudden death came as a distinct shock.  Mr. Keery is survived by his wife, four daughters, Agnes of New York city, Hilda and Annabelle of Binghamton and Mrs. John Gempler of Roscoe; two sons, Francis of Walton and Abram of Binghamton, and two sisters, Misses Elizabeth and Agnes Keery of Walton.  A requiem high mass will be celebrated by Rev. John Taffe of St. John's church, Walton, Rev. Leo Clark, St. Margaret Mary's parish, Albany, and Rev. Richard Walsh of St. Mary's church, Oneonta, Saturday morning at 10 a.m. at St. John's church in Walton.  The Holy Name society will meet at Mr. Keery's late home at 4:30 today, Friday, for the Rosary and prayer.  Burial will be made in the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Binghamton.

Lucius Benjamin

Walton Reporter, January 26, 1940

Lucius Benjamin died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. C.L. Wagner, near South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], Tuesday, Jan. 23, of heart trouble.  Mr. Benjamin was born at Cannonsville [Delaware co., NY] Apr. 8, 1863, and had spent the greater part of is life in the town of Tompkins where he was in the lumber business.  He had been ill for several years.  He is survived by four daughters, Mrs. Wagner, mentioned above, Mrs. J. Waterman, Lake Delaware; Mrs. Myrtle Peaster, Walton, and Mrs. William Taylor, Otego, and one son, John Secor of Norwich.  The funeral will be held Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock at Lyon brothers' funeral chapel, Rev. Frederick Belden officiating.  Burial will be made in the Walton cemetery.

Death Notices

Chenango Union, October 28, 1875

BENTON:  In Dakota City, Iowa, Sept. 20, 1875, Mr. Oren Benton, aged 68 and formerly of Afton [Chenango Co., NY].

CURTIS:  In Addison, Steuben Co., Sept. 28, 1875, Mr. James Curtis, son-in-law of D.D. McGeorge of Oxford, aged 48 years.

St. JOHN:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], Oct. 5, Mrs. Sally St. John, widow of the late Lewis St. John, aged 90 years.

Obituaries (December 14)

Humphrey Sisson

Chenango Telegraph, November 24, 1847

Frozen:  Humphrey Sisson, a man 60 years of age, and residing in the northeast part of this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], was found on Saturday morning in the road leading to King's Settlement, about a mile from the "Corners": nearly dead.  He was carried home, but died in a short time from the effects of cold and exposure.  We understand that he left this village the evening previous in a state of intoxication.

 

Herman Sherwood

Bainbridge Republican, March 26, 1880

Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY] feels the sad loss of one of its most esteemed citizens, Mr. Herman Sherwood who died in the Utica Insane Asylum on Wednesday of last week.  He became deranged, and about two months ago his friends, in hopes of his immediate recovery, sent him to that institution, but instead of regaining his mind and health he was brought back to his family--a wife and child--a corpse.  The funeral occurred Saturday.

 

Olny Winsor

Bainbridge Republican, April 16, 1880

Mr. Olny Winsor was attacked with his third apoplectic stroke one week ago Saturday last, and lay in an unconscious state till Monday of this week, when he died.  Mr. Winsor was well known and respected throughout this section, as an industrious and honorable man, having passed nearly his whole life in the vicinity where he died.  His age was 63 years.  He left two sons and two daughters, all living in this town, save one Mrs. Rudd, who resides in Waterville, Madison Co.  The remains were interred in the Episcopal burial ground on Wednesday, Rev. D.N. Grummon officiating at the funeral obsequies.  [St. Peter's Episcopal Churchyard, Bainbridge, Chenango Co., NY]

 

Benson Lewis

Bainbridge Republican, March 26, 1880

The Delhi Republican publishes the following:  The saddest accident that has ever been known to happen in this community occurred last Saturday about 10 o'clock a.m., resulting in the death of one of the most promising young men in the town.  Mr. Benson Lewis, only child of Mr. Wallace Lewis, of this place, went in company with some other young men to the runway of Messrs. Edget & H.J. Lewis, for the purpose of seeing the logs run.  Young Lewis was coming down the runway, and was within about forty rods of the lower terminus, when he was struck in the back by a descending log, and almost instantly killed.  He was thrown full thirty feet by the blow, striking on his head.  His skull was crushed and his back broken twice.  The blow to his parents is a terrible one.  His father is in poor health and looked upon his son as his right arm of defense during the remnant of life.  Mr. Lewis was one of the few who are so fortunate as to have no enemies.  I never have heard one unfavorable word of this young man in the two years I have known him.  The shock falls heavily on all the community, and all unite in extending their sympathies to the bereaved parents.

Harvard, March 18th, 1880, James P. Race.

 

Zachariah C. Curtis

Sidney Record, January 16, 1892

The death of Zachariah C. Curtis of Rockdale [Chenango Co., NY], removes from our midst one of the oldest residents of the Unadilla valley, and a well known and highly esteemed citizen.  His parents came from Stratford, Conn., and settled in Madison county, where Mr. Curtis was born Aug. 7th, 1800.  There were six children born to these parents, four of whom died at over eighty years, and two are still living.  One brother who lives in Madison, Wis., has already celebrated the 60th anniversary of his wedding.  Mr. Curtis came to Chenango Co. at the age of 23 years, and bought land opposite Rockdale, where for many years he was extensively engaged as a hop grower.  Later on he controlled the stage route from Mt. Pleasant, Pa., to New Berlin, N.Y., also the Rockdale mills and hotel. The past twenty years of his life were quietly and peacefully spent at his home in Rockdale.  In religion Mr. Curtis was a Universalist and a regular attendant at services in Rockdale Union church, having been for many years one of its trustees.  Politically speaking he was a Democrat, and always a firm supporter of the principles of that party.  The candidates of his choice received his vote on last election day.  Had he lived until Aug. 7th, 1892, he would have attained the age of 92 years.  Surviving him he leaves a widow and three sons, J. Delos Curtis, H. Walker Curtis and Ira M. Curtis.  His funeral occurred form his late residence, Wednesday, Dec. 30th the services being held in Union church, Rev. Mr. Stores, of Oneonta, officiating.  He was buried in the family cemetery on the Curtis homestead in the town of Unadilla [Otsego Co., NY], now owned by his son J. Delos Curtis. 

 

And thus has the world lost the genial presence of a noble, a pure-minded man who has left the earth with all its folly, wickedness and its deceit, the better for having lived in it.  Mr. Curtis was revered for his manly virtue and industrious example of the blessed -- of old age that follows a life of [virtue]. His record is a grand record upon his family history to which his descendants can point with pride and satisfaction.

William Corbin

Bainbridge Republican, June 5, 1875

Bennettsville, May 31st, 1875
Mr. Editor:  Having heard many different stories in regard to the death of Mr. William Corbin, I deem it my duty as a friend to give a correct statement in regard to the case.  He labored with Jesse Crumb fixing lead pipe until 4 P.M., then he says to Mr Crumb the wind is right and I am going on the side hill to set those brush and stumps on fire.  After it had burned a short time, the wind shifted and blew a strong gale toward the fence and woods, taking the fire up the hill into the fence.  Mr. Corbin with a hoe digs a trench up the side of the fence to keep the fire from going into the woods, but the wind blew it into the fence and woods just below him, then he gets over the fence in the woods and trenches around to head the fire and had gone about four rods from the fence and about ten feet past a large mossy log, then he comes back to the log and sits down and lays his hat on one end of the log and his hoe beside it which was found there.  Mr. Corbin was found about twenty feet northwest of this mossy log laying on his face without the least sign of a struggle, it being about four rods from the clearing.  At 6 P.M. Mr. Crumb was sent up to help Mr. Corbin.  He not seeing Mr. Corbin there, pulled a few rails out of the fence and goes right on over home.  Just before dark, F.J. Corbin, C.W. Corbin and G.R. Corbin with hoes goes to the hill to put out the fire.  They went to the right hand side and commenced putting out the fire, and expecting to find Mr. Corbin and Mr. Crumb on the other side. When they got to the other side and not finding them there, they supposed they had gone down to the house. The three came to the house expecting to find their father there.  Then C.W. Corbin goes up to Mr. Crumb's and he tells him he did not see Mr Corbin when on the hill.  Then D.W. Corbin, C.W. Corbin, F.J. Corbin and G.R. Corbin with lanterns goes back to the hill and find him as aforesaid.  Then D.W. Corbin and F.J. Corbin come down and got the horse and wagon and brought him to the house with C.W. Corbin and G.R. Corbin.  The supposition is Mr. Corbin having had a disease of sciatic nerve for several years and been subject to spasmodic actions or cramp in that limb when he overdone or got tired, he was taken with the cramp and laid down on his face as was his habit at such times.  But the spasm extended up the spine until it struck the heart as the hands and arms were contracted, also the fingers, particularly the left one.  The features were composed and natural, there were but two small burns on the body, one on the left hand and along the outer part of the fore arm, the left shoulder blade about the size of the hand, but not deep, only sufficient to blister the skin.  Mr. Corbin must have been dead some time when the fire reached him and died from spasm of the heart.   L. Livingston, M.D.

Bainbridge High Class of 1959 - Part 7

Bainbridge Central High School - Class of 1959

"Echo" 1959

Fern Louise Sheldon

Joan Elaine Straka

Patricia Ann Thoms

Sherry Ann Tuckey

Douglas Duane Wilcox

Nancy Kay Wilcox

The dead burglar - unidentified - 1887

Nineveh Burglary

Burglar Shot and killed in Smith and Webster's Store

Afton Enterprise, May 20, 1887

The usually quiet little village of Nineveh [Broome Co., NY] was thrown into a great excitement early Wednesday morning, by the report that a burglar had been shot and killed in the store of Smith & Webster, in that place.  The report spread rapidly throughout Nineveh and thence to adjoining villages, and all day Wednesday large crowds of people visited the scene of the tragedy and viewed the remains of the dead burglar.  A representative of the Enterprise was dispatched to the excited little village and the following particulars were learned:

 

About 12 o'clock Tuesday night Mr. Webster, who resides a short distance south of his store, was awakened by the report of the burglar alarm bell which runs from the store to his dwelling.  Calling his clerk, Mr. L. W. Clark, who boards with Mr. Webster, the two hastily dressed and Mr. Clark arming himself with a double barrel breech loading shot gun, they started for the store.  They were obliged to move cautiously, for fear than an accomplice might be stationed on the outside of the store, and either shoot them down or make good their escape.  Creeping up to the building they could hear somebody moving around inside, but no light was visible.  They went around to the north eastern side of the building to the outside door of the meal room where Mr. Webster stopped, Mr. Clark going on to the rear end of the store. As Mr. Webster stood looking through the glass part of the door the burglar entered the meal room and struck a match.  He was not more than twelve feet from Mr. Webster, but he being unarmed was unable to do anything.  The burglar got a sack and returned to the main part of the store, and leaving Mr. Clark on guard, Mr. Webster went to the Pease  Hotel after help.

 

Mr. Clark then went around to another door, in the rear of the building, which he found partly open, and concluded that the burglar had made his escape.  While he stood there listening the burglar struck another match, when Mr. Clark drew up his gun and fired.  The burglar threw up his hands and exclaimed, "My God, my time has come" and dropped to the floor. At the time the shot was fired the burglar stood behind the counter facing Mr. Clark and the charge took effect in his breast and abdomen.  The gun was loaded with buckshot, and the distance between the burglar and Mr. Clark was about twenty feet.  A few moments after the shooting Wm. Horton and John Seagraves reached the store, and the four men entered the building together.  They proceeded very carefully, as they were not aware that the burglar was fatally wounded, and thought that he, or an accomplice, would not hesitate to shoot.

 

Finding their way unmolested and hearing nothing of anyne else in the store, they reached the dying burglar, who gave one or two gasps after the men reached his side.  A light was procured and the dead body removed to a more convenient palce. Messrs. Webster and Clark then notified Deputy Sheriff Hobbs and gave themselves up.

 

Nothing was found on the body of the dead man by which he could be identified, and who he is or where he is from is a mystery.  He was about five feet seven inches in height, and weighed about 140 pounds, wore short sandy side whiskers and mustache, and was dressed in brown corkscrew coat and vest and check pants, blue flannel shirt and soft black hat.  A few cartridges were found in one of his pockets, but he had no weapon .  He was evidently a tramp, and it is believed that he had an accomplice.  In the bag he obtained in the meal room he had put some cheese, crackers, canned fruit, tobacco, etc., and had on one new rubber when he was shot.  He had also taken some change out of the money drawer, about $1.60.

 

The burglar obtained entrance to the store by breaking out one pane of glass in a window on the south side of the building, and then by inserting his hand he could remove the nail that fastened the window.  This let him into a room where butter, salt, flour, etc., is kept and then by forcing open another door leading to the main part of the building, he could go where he pleased.  The back door through which he was shot he had probably opened do he [could escape] if he heard [someone coming]. 

 

In different parts of the store the firm have placed burglar alarms, and it would be a very difficult job for a person to gain entrance thereto without awakening Mr. Webster, to whose house the wire runs.  Mr. Clark, the young man who did the shooting, is about 28 years of age.  He is about medium height, weighs about 135 pounds and wears a mustache and chin whiskers.  He has the reputation of being a fine young man, and while it is to be deplored that he was obliged to shoot a fellow being, all law abiding citizens will honor him for the brave stand he took.  Our country is full of lawless men who prefer to steal rather than to work, and if more of them were served as Mr. Clark served this one, it would be better for all concerned.

 

Coroner Osborn, of Binghamton, was notified, and on reaching Nineveh empaneled the following jury and held an inquest:  Silas Scott, Wm. Grannis, Geo. Searles, Chas. Hare, Willard Brown, and Andrew Blake.  After a few witnesses were sworn the inquest was adjourned until today (Friday).  Of course this is all proper and well enough, but no jury would think of rendering a verdict other than of "justifiable homicide."  The body of the dead man was removed to the undertaking rooms of J.H. Ayers, at Harpursville, and will not be buried until today.

_________________________________

Still Unidentified

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, May 25, 1887

 

The body of the dead burglar at Nineveh remains unidentified at this writing.  Investigation by the authorities seems to point to the conclusion that more than one person was engaged in the commission of the crime.  There is a wing on each side of the store, in both of which goods are stored, and to which there is no practical entrance from the outside, except the windows. When Clark first arrived on the scene after the alarm, he went to the side window in the left wing of the building, and peering through, saw a man in the wing room.  He immediately went to the back room of the store, which he found open, and discovered the burglar upon which he fired. There was hardly time between Clark's leaving the side window of the wing and his arrival at the back door to enable the burglar to change his position.  Moreover, the intruder was behind the counter, in the act of eating, as if he had been thus employed for some time.  When Clark fired the shot, and heard the man exclaim "I am gone" he immediately left the spot, with the intention, as he now claims, of calling a doctor. There was plenty of time before his return to enable anyone else who might have been in the store to escape, and the fugitive was given every opportunity to make that escape perfect, as the idea of a confederate did not develop, and as a consequence there was no pursuit.  On the body of the dead man ammunition was found, but not a scrap to give a clue to his identify.  It is now positively believed that the man seen on the track on Tuesday talking with the dead burglar was a confederate.

 

Mr. Clark, who fired the shot that put an end to the burglar, regrets exceedingly the rashness that impelled him to so summary a step, and not withstanding the fact that he was in a great measure justified in his action by the presence of a burglar in his employer's store, he is considerably disheartened by the occurrence.  If, however, there is any plausibility in the theory that the whole affair was a planned and systematic robbery, his course proves the only one conductive to his own safety. 

____________________________________

Coroner's Jury

Afton Enterprise, may 27, 1887

 

The jury in the case of the unknown burglar who was shot and killed in Smith & Webster's store, at Nineveh, the particulars of which appeared in the last issue of the Enterprise, rendered the following verdict:

 

"Death was caused by gun shot wounds in the region of the abdomen, said wounds being made by buck shot discharged from a gun while in the hands of Lester W. Clark, at the store of his employer's in the village of Nineveh, N.Y., on the morning of the eighteenth of May, while the store was being burglarized by said unknown man; that Clark fired with the intention of disabling the burglar in order to capture him; that under the circumstances we consider the killing justifiable, and therefore we exonerate Lester W. Clark."

Obituaries (December 13)

Lynn L. Brookins

Utica Saturday Globe, July 1905

Lynn L. Brookins

1880 - 1905

Norwich [Chenango Co., NY]:  Lynn L. Brookins died at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harrison Brookins, in North Norwich, Sunday last, from a disease contracted while in the infantry service in the Philippines.  Scarce two months ago he passed his 25th birthday, having been born in the town of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], April 21, 1880.  He made his home with his parents until September 2, 1899 when he enlisted as a private, Company D, Thirty-eighth Regiment, U.S. Volunteer Infantry, going with his regiment to the Philippines soon after his enlistment.  He saw much active service, taking part in 12 skirmishes and engagements.  How his conduct as a soldier was regarded by his superiors in the service is shown by the following extract from a letter written by the orderly sergeant of his regiment: 

"Brookins , I write you to tell your father that you were an extra good soldier.  If all the men of the army were like you, I think it could clean out the world.  Company D was a very good company, but you were among the best.  Army life is mighty hard, but you always did your duty."

After his discharge on June 30, Mr. Brookins returned at once to home, and had never been well since.  For the past two years he had been confined to his home, and during that period submitted to two operations, but without relief.  He is survived by his parents and four brothers, Lee of Dorset Vt., Nelson of Plymouth, Louis, O.&W. ticket agent at Norwich and Arthur who lives at home.  Funeral services were held at 2 o'clock Wednesday afternoon from his parents' home in north Norwich, Rev. Ford officiating.  A delegation of S.R. PerLee Camp, Sons of veterans attended and acted as pall bearers.

Norwich Sun, July 3, 1905

Lynn L. Brookins, at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harrison Brookins, at North Norwich Sunday morning, July 2.  His age was 25 years.  Some time ago Mr. Brookins went to Faxton hospital where an operation was performed for trouble in his side.  During the Spanish American war he was a soldier in the Philippine Islands, being a member of Co. D, 38th U.S. Infantry.  He had been ill since he returned from the war but had not been confined to his bed until the last two or three weeks.  Mr. Brookins is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harrison L. Brookins and four brothers, Louis of Norwich, Nelson of Plymouth, Lee who lives in Dorset, Vt, and Arthur of North Norwich.

John Wiley

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, May 25, 1887

The sad intelligence of the suicide or accidental killing of John Wiley, son of Burton Wiley, of Page Brook, in the town of Greene [Chenango Co., NY], reached Norwich on Monday evening.  The details were meagre, but as near as can be ascertained are as follows.

About noon on Monday, John, who was about 16 years of age, went alone to the barn a short distance from the house.  He did not return, and soon a friend, having occasion to go to the stable, found him lying upon the floor with his clothes on fire and a pistol lying by his side.  He had been shot through the mouth, the charge entering the brain, and death must have been instantaneous.  In the absence of Coroner Wood, Coroner Ormsby, of this village, was summoned, and went to Greene in the evening.  There is no cause assigned that should lead the young man to take his own life, and the theory of accidental killing is held by a majority of people in the vicinity where the young man was known.

Charles C. Gager

Chenango Semi-Weekly Telegraph, May 25, 1887

Tuesday morning, Charles C. Gager died at his residence, on Birdsall Street [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].  Nearly eleven years ago, he was attacked with progressive locomotor ataxy.  The paralysis manifested itself in the limbs and rendered him helpless, although his general health remained good and he was able to be out upon the street in an invalid chair and greet his friends socially.  Last Saturday he went riding and enjoyed the beauties of springtime.  That night, he began to complain of severe pain in his right side.  Sunday and Monday the attack continued and he grew rapidly weak.  Tuesday forenoon about 10 o'clock, death came to his relief.

Mr. Gager was born in Sidney [Delaware Co., NY], in August, 1827, and there passed his boyhood.  Upon attaining manhood's years, he engaged in the merchant tailoring business, and followed the business in Coventry, Owego, New Berlin, Delhi, Greene and finally in Norwich.  He settled here in 1852, thirty-five years ago.  He continued his business till disease compelled him to relinquish it, eleven years ago.  In social life, he was a most genial and entertaining companion.  He was possessed of an excellent mental endowment, which he had thoroughly cultivated.  In his younger years he was something of a musician, and belonged to a glee club that engaged in the Fremont campaign and helped sing Lincoln into office.  He was an ardent Republican and believed in its principles.  He was elected Clerk to the Board of Supervisors one session, and of late years has been collector several times.  He was a member of Canasawacta lodge, I.O. of O.F., and has been the recipient of many fraternal acts from that brotherhood.  He leaves him surviving his widow and one son, who have the sympathy of the entire community in their sorrow.  The funeral wil be attended Thursday afternoon at 4 o'clock, and will be conducted by the Odd Fellows.