Vital Records - Oxford, NY - August 1857

 Oxford Times, August 5, 1857

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Charles E. Carmer of Oxford to  Miss Catharine Harvey, of Cortland [Cortland Co., NY].

Married:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult., by Rev. Wm. Bixby, Rev. Robert Townsend, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Abbey Jones, of the former place.

Married:  In Greene, Chenango Co., N.Y. on Tuesday, 28th July, by the Rev. Ferdinand Rogers, at the residence of Frederick Juliand, Esq., William H. Clarke of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Julia McMahon.

Died:  In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult., Mr. Israel Jacobs, aged 66 years.

Died:  In South Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult., Doct. H.D. Spencer, aged 34 years.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th ult., Mr. Jarvis Rogers, aged 52 years.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d ult., Waity [Boss], wife of Mr. Benjamin Boss, aged 74 years.

Died:  At Rathboneville, Steuben Co., N.Y., on the 27th July, Mrs. Catharine Rathbone, wife of Gen. Ransom Rathbone, in the 67th year of her age.  She was the daughter of Capt. John Fisher, an Englishman, and when an infant, removed with her parents to the city of New York.  Miss Catharine Fisher was thoroughly educated to excel in all the departments of female life. And when a fair and graceful maiden, she visited in 1807 a female friend in Oxford.  Gen. Rathbone, a young and enterprising merchant of Oxford, had the good sense to discover and the good fortune to marry this inestimable treasure of love and goodness.  They commenced their married life in the beautiful valley, of the Chenango.  The graceful manners and varied accomplishments of Mrs. Rathbone, aided by a munificent husband, tendered her home the resort of the most refined society, where wit, genius and learning loved to assemble. She was the morning star of light and life and joy. The love of God was the pervading beauty of her life, and gave to her presence the charm that ever distinguished her.  At Oxford she passed her happiest days.  She was then in the bloom of youth, when Nature lays upon the lap of life her sweetest flowers.  With a husband, who never ceased to love and honor her, and surrounded by sons and daughters of beauty, this accomplished lady passed her long virtuous career, through the varied joys and sorrows of earth.  One of her earliest friends, who knew her well, and appreciated her surpassing goodness as a wife and as a mother, pays to her memory this sad tribute of affection and esteem.  The word of her Heavenly Father was the guide of her early life, and she has received the reward of immortality in the Paradise of God.

Oxford Times, August 12, 1857

Died:  At Preston Corners [Chenango Co., NY], on the 31st July, Capt. Joseph Slater, aged 80 years.

Oxford Times, August 19, 1857

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., Mr. George W. Godfrey, aged 44 years.

Died:  In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., Diantha [Warn], wife of Mr. Charles Warn, aged 43 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., Mr. Thomas Potter, aged 84 years.  

Died:  Also, on the 9th inst., Mr. Lyman Dudley, aged 71 years.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th ult., Mrs. Rodney Phelps, aged 70 years.

Died:  Also, on the 8th inst., Mrs. Rachel Gilliland, aged 63 years.

Oxford Times, August 26, 1857

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., by Rev. Wm. Bixby, Mr. N.S. Browning of Larron, Wis., to Miss Mary J. Ames of the former place.

Died:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., Mrs. Phebe Evans, aged 30 years.

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] on the 4th inst. Mr. Sabin Warner, aged 54 years

Died:  Also, on the 13th, Mr. Barnabas Brown, aged 53 years.

Civil War Letter - October 1861

 Oxford Times, October 30, 1861

Camp Holt / Near Washington, Oct. 10th, 1861

I have not written to anyone before as I had no conveniences for writing, and for eight or ten days I have been quite unwell.  I am now a good deal better.  Most of our company have been more or less unwell.  We arrived in Binghamton about 10 o'clock at night, and started for New York about midnight, but were delayed at Deposit by an accident to the engine until daylight.  On board the train was a company of Sharpshooters from Wisconsin, also a company of over one hundred of the Lincoln Cavalry of Cayuga Co.  People cheered the train as it passed every village and hamlet. At a large iron foundry in Orange co. the workmen ranged themselves in line and as they saw the troops on board the train cheered them most briskly.  With their soot covered faces; they looked like the denizens of a lower region. They did not feel like peace and it was gratifying to see so much enthusiasm in the people. We started from New York on Monday morning, saw no appearance of military until we reached Perryville on the Chesapeake near the mouth of the Susquehanna.  A picket guard was stationed at the landings on both sides of the river.  There was also a guard on the boat.  At every bridge crossing, soldiers were stationed all the way from Haver de Grace, opposite Perryville, to Baltimore. As we entered Baltimore, on the right we could see Federal Hill in the northern part of the city.  It is now fortified and occupied by our troops. We could see the cannon on its ramparts ready, should it become necessary, to belch forth fire and destruction upon the rebel city.  On our left in the harbor, nearly two miles off was Fort McHenry, with its big guns ready to cooperate with our troops on Federal hill. 

After a fatiguing march thro' the city from one depot to the other, on the route of the Massachusetts 6th, when it was attacked by the mob, we started for Washington; we reached the Relay House about dusk. A regiment is stationed here in the immediate vicinity.  On a hillside we saw the first encampment. The road from Baltimore to Washington is now under government control, pickets are stationed all along the road between the two cities. We reached Washington about nine o'clock, and started for the camp of our regiment about two miles distant.  We reached the camp about ten o'clock a tired and jaded set.  We were quartered in a building occupied by our officers; the room none of the neatest, was spread with mattresses in the same state, and tired and hungry we went to bed, that is, we each laid down on the floor and slept better than could be expected without anything to cover us, and but little under our bodies.  Here was a sudden transition from comforts of Chenango to the hardships of military life. We arose next morning, our bones aching somewhat, and each with his towel and soap went to the wash room.  Soon after we had breakfast; black coffee, with plenty of sugar, but no milk, very good white bread without butter, plenty of boiled meat, any quantity of salt, but no potatoes. We were so hungry that we made a very good meal. We now by a little management, by buying sweet potatoes &c., get up very good meals.  The government furnishes more than we can eat.  Our rations are the same as the soldiers.  

After breakfast, I went out to view our situation. The building is a large three story structure formerly owned by John Quincy Adams, as a summer residence, and occupied by some of the other Presidents for the same purpose.  The grounds with winding walks and shade trees are most beautiful when not occupied by military, but now are quite filthy.  From the front portico we had a fine view of Washington City, the Capitol and monument, towering above the rest.  South beyond the city lay the east branch of the Potomac, with its hills beyond, occupied by the five regiments of Sickles' brigade. To the right and far down as the eye could reach ran the Potomac.  On the west side of the Potomac, about twelve miles off we could see the point where Alexandria lay, and could just see a few of its steeples. The hills on the west of the Potomac are occupied by our troops from the Chain Bridge a few miles above Washington to Alexandria 12 miles below. They are called Arlington Heights. The encampments of our troops overlooked in the distance like patches of snow.  We could just distinguish Fort Corcoran opposite Georgetown.  Our troops appeared to be clearing the hills in many places and burning over the ground  Opposite our quarters to the west, four regiments were quartered; in the field near our regiment is the Pennsylvania 13th Regiment and the 55th Regiment New York Volunteers; beyond is a regiment of twelve hundred Cavalry; between here and Washington several regiments are stationed.  I ascended the dome of the Capitol a few says since and could canotier twenty encampments on this side of the river, and could see for a part as they are scattered all over the country for miles around.  One thing is certain, a large army of our troops are in the immediate vicinity of Washington.  

We are now about five miles from Washington. Our encampment near Washington we left a few days since.  We are surrounded by woods and know but little what is going on.  Last evening our regiment, upon very short notice, left for [..?..] towards the Chain Bridge. We expect to arrive tomorrow and suppose we shall soon go over to Virginia.  S.H.F.

Vital Records - Greene, NY - July 1857

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 9, 1857

Married:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst. by Mr. Jeremiah Tillotson, Esq., Mr. Nathan Gross to Miss Mercy A. Alexander, both of this town.

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst. by Rev. L. Wright, Mr. Noah Wightman, of Preston [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Minerva A. Scott of Plymouth [Chenango  Co., NY].

Married:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst. by Rev. Wm. H. Lockwood, Mr. Schuyler D. Mudge, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Phebe A. Hancox, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], June 16th, by Rev. Geo. J. Kaercher, Charles T. Preston of Willet [Cortland Co., NY] to Miss Lydia M. Foster, of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In South Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], June 16th, by Rev. Edwin Clement, Thomas G. Smith, of Oswego, Potter Co., Pa. to Miss Sophia A. Chase, of South Bainbridge.

Married:  In Eaton [Madison Co., NY], June 30th, at the residence of Alpheus Morse, Esq., by the Rev. M.S. Platt, Hon. Henry C. Goodwin, of Hamilton [Madison So., NY] member elect to Congress, and Miss Josephine Parker, of Eaton.

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d ult., by Rev. E. Hoag, Doct. John Yale, of Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], and Miss Emilie Hoag of Norwich.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Mr. Thomas Hall, aged 75 years.

Died:  At Quincy, ill., on the 12th ult., of consumption, Mr. I. LaFayette Cushman, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], aged 34 years.

Died:  In New Lisbon, Otsego Co. [NY], on the 21st ult., Mrs. Lydia D. [Sergeant], a wife of George M. Sergeant and sister of Wm. A. Raymond, of Norwich, aged 24 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 16, 1857

Married:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult. by Rev. M. Th..., Mr. L.T. Birdlebrough to Miss Hattie A.... All of Pitcher.

Married:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8d inst. by E. Fenton, Esq., Mr. Frank Sweet to Miss Ellen Bliss, both of Triangle, Broome Co. [NY].

Married:  In Newark, Broome co. [NY], on the 9th inst. by Rev. Willard M. Hoyt, Mr. Herman G. Burlingame, to Miss Ellen W. Wicks, both of Norwich.

Married:  In Grace Church, Sacramento, California, June 1st, by Rev. Wm. H. Hill, James W. Mandeville, Senator from  Tuolumn Co., formerly of this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], to Helen P. Snell, of Sacramento, California, formerly of Saratoga.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst., Sarah Ann [Rooney], infant daughter of Samuel and Jane Rooney.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, July 30, 1857

Died:  July 12th, 1857, of Onaemia, Mrs. H.E. Hitchcock, wife of Alonzo Hitchcock, Esq., of Chicago, aged 34 years and 10 months.

Mrs. H., born Miss Hannah E. Hallenbeck, was a native of Chenango Co., New York, and a graduate of the Oneida Conference Seminary, of the class of 1847.  Her superior natural abilities cultivated by a thorough and systematic course of education, fitted her for a prominent position in society, which by her rare talents and taste she might have won distinction as an artist. To a mind refined by culture, she added a heart warmed with every sentiment, and keenly alive to the joys and sorrows of those around her.  In her own family she had suffered much. the victim of disease herself she has twined the cypress and planted the rose bud on the graves of three of her children whose young days in the beautiful language of the poet,  "Have set as sets the morning star, / That goes not down behind the darkened / West, But fades away in the clear light of Heaven / Her own sun has set at noon.  Chicago Daily Press.

The above concise and beautiful tribute to one who a few years since was a resident of this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], brings back vividly to the memory of the writer of these lines, the person and character of the lamented deceased. The tidings contained in this notice have spread a cloud of sadness over the circle of friendship, in this place, who have been called to mourn the departure of one so gifted and accomplished.

It seems but a brief period since, that she stood at the altar of wedded vows, and now death has dissolved the countless ties which bound together the clustering inmates of a happy home.  It is indeed difficult to realize that she is gone, separated as she was by distance from the many associations and friends of her youth, in the West.  Yet loving hearts gathered at her dying couch and a crushed and bereaved husband surveys a home, whose light is quenched in the darkness of the sepulcher.  

"She that with smiles lit up the hall, / And cheered with songs the hearth / Alas! for love, if thou wert all, / And naught beyond, oh earth!"

Civil War Letter - Oxford Band - September 1861

 Oxford Times, October 9, 1861

The following letter from one of the members of the Oxford Band, now at the seat of war, received by a gentleman of this village, will be read with interest by our citizens.

Camp Holt, Washington, Sept. 28th, 1861

Dear Sir:  Having just perused a copy of the Oxford Times of 25th inst., a package of which came from you to the members of Oxford Band here encamped, I feel like acknowledging the receipt of it with gratitude and, in behalf of our company, return you our hearty thanks.  Could you have seen the eagerness with which they were received by us, you would feel repaid for sending them.  It was very much as a hungry soldier receives his rations, which can better be imagined than described.  I can assure you the Times looked more beautiful than ever before.  Some of our company would not refrain from tears as they perused the article in relation to ourselves.  Doubtless you will be interested in learning a little of our travels, camp life &c, and I will give abstract portions.

We left New York Monday last, at 7 A.M., and arrived at Camp Lincoln, Meridian Hill, Washington (2 miles from the city) about 10 P.M.  the cars were mostly filled with soldiers, and as we passed stations and villages cheer after cheer reached my ears from the citizens, thus showing their attachment to the Union. Everything was quiet in Baltimore so far as I could observe, and I saw many little "contrabands" clap their hands and shout as they saw the soldiers pass. When we came to the Relay House, I saw the soldiers and their numerous encampments, and as I heard their tramps and saw the glistening of their arms, my soul was filled with patriotism. But I must pass hastily on, suffice it to say, we came safely to camp, beginning to feel we were soldiers.  It came a little tough for us who have been used to Spring Beds and feathers, to lay ourselves away on a few straws, but there comes the thought we are part of the Grand Army to sustain the Union and we are satisfied. We fare as well as could be expected, and perhaps even better.  Our rations are abundant, and health prevails in camp.  Our Regiment is composed of a hardy set of men.  They are anxious for a fight, at least such is their language.

Meridian Hill is a magnificent place for an encampment, and as far as the eye can reach in every direction, the fields are white with tents.  It is a beautiful sight, and not only is the vision gratified, but there comes borne upon the breeze the enlivening strains of harmony from the Brass Bands.  One cannot but feel patriotic while a participant in these scenes. Orders came Thursday night for Gen. Peck's Brigade composed of five regiments, one of which is Anderson's Zouaves, to march the following morning five and half miles from Camp Lincoln near the Maryland line.  Camp Holt is a broken uneven surface of country, but an important position.  We are at a fort unfinished which is the business of this Brigade to complete. We are six miles from Chain Bridge, and I am informed the way is lined with forts to prevent the enemy's approach in case they cross the Potomac.  Our pickets are extended four miles, but here beats the tattoo and I will finish in the morning.  

Sunday, Sept. 29th:  It is a beautiful autumnal morning, but had I lost my reckoning, should not conceive it to be the Sabbath, hearing the roll of the drums and report of infantry, &c. nothing calculated to make one feel devotional.  There is but little regard paid to Sabbath or morals.  There appears to be a lack on the part of superior officers.  They do not set an example that might be expected from their position. While writing, I hear the voice of singing at the place of public worship, and will away.  More anon.

Sunday Evening:  I attended Divine worship and strange to say, there was but one officer of the Regiment present, and he a Lieutenant.  Our old chaplain is a very fine man but labors to great disadvantage.

The Regiment had served out today three days rations, and to hold themselves in readiness at any moment to march. The report is to Chain Bridge, but my authority is not entirely reliable. The Band will remain, as we have no instruments yet.  Mr. Griswold, Band Master, starts tomorrow for New York, after them.  There has been some confusion in relation to their purchase, as they are furnished by the Regiment and not by Government, as supposed. When our pieces come the monotony will be somewhat destroyed, and new life will be infused not only in ourselves, but through the whole Regiment.

Respectfully Yours,  D.C.B.

Vital Records - Oxford, NY - July 1857

 Oxford Times, July 1, 1857

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult., by the Rev. J. G. Bartholomew, Mr. Prentice Evans, to Miss Lydia M. Clark, both of Preston [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  At the residence of his father, near the village of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th inst., DeLoss H . Owen, aged 24 years.  In the early Summer of his life, in the beautiful month of June, the spirit of our friend, has passed from the alternating lights and shadows of earth, to the changeless realities of eternity. Seemingly strange to us, kind to him, in the order of Providence, were the successive vicissitudes of his earthly pilgrimage.  Not all at once, but one by one, through days of suffering and nights of sorrow, were the sources of human enjoyment cut off, and the objects that make life desirable removed from view in the progress of his spiritual development. Thus step by step, upon the ruins of the material, was built up the beautiful fabric of the spiritual.  He was endowed with a refined taste, a keen discernment of beauty, and harmony in art and nature, a heart moved by kind and generous impulse. As rested the cloud, shadow upon his native hills, he learned confidingly, hopefully to rest in God, when the objects and the pleasures which made the future radiant with hope, and vanished from his horizon.  He has left behind him a name that will awaken kindly recollections in them who knew him.

Oxford Times, July 8, 1857

Fatal Accident:  On Monday evening, as Capt. Alson Upham and his wife, father and mother of the Upham brothers lately doing business in this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co., NY], while riding from Earlville to their home in the North part of this town, were, by some cause to us unknown, thrown from their  wagon, and striking the ground with such force as to fracture the skull of the old lady, who died Tuesday morning at six o'clock, and cutting a severe gash in the head of Mr. Upham.  Mrs. Upham was 71 years old. She was enjoying good health, and it was her usual custom to drive the horse to this village every two weeks, alone. This she had done for a long time.  At the time this happened, the wife and brother of A.G. Upham had just received a letter from the physicians of St. Joseph, Mo., stating that he was lying dangerously ill of the cholera, in that city, and on the morning the old lady died the wife and brother of A.G. Upham started West to see him.  From the tone of the letter they received, they expected to find him a corpse, which we sincerely hope they will not.  Sherburne Trans.I

Married:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., by Rev. Wm. H. Lockwood, Mr. James O. Stratton of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Hannah F. Stork of Coventry.

Died:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th ult., Matilda [Parker], wife of Mr. Erastus Parker, aged 54 years.

Fatal Accident in Lisle [Broome Co., NY]:  On the 18th inst., Mr. Alfred Orton, a well known citizen of Lisle, while engaged in falling timber and pealing bark, in company with a number of hands, was crushed by the fall of a tree and instantly killed.  The tree was felled by a boy, and not discovered by Mr. Orton until it had got under such motion that it rendered all effort to rescue himself unavailing. The tree struck him on the head, smashing in the skull, and driving a knot, which passed in just above the eye, through his head  The deceased was 40 years of age, and leaves a wife and four children to mourn his ill fated and untimely end.   Bing. Repub.

Oxford Times, July 15, 1857

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., Mr. Benjamin Perkins, aged 35 years.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY] on the 5th inst., Elizabeth [Kinnier], wife of Mr. John Kinnier, aged 50 years.

Died:  In Clinton, North Carolina, on the evening of the 27th of June, Mrs. Cornelia M. Micks, wife of Dr. W.G. Micks, and daughter of General Ransom Rathbone of Rathboneville, N.Y., aged 37 years.  In the death of Mrs. Micks, a burning and shining light has been taken from the Protestant Episcopal Church; a highly esteemed member has been taken from the community, and a most affectionate mother, and devoted wife has been torn from the family circle. the spirit of kindness was the ruling principle of her life.  Her death was a peaceful resignation into the hands of God.  Just anterior to her departure she expressed a desire to see her children,.  They were brought into the room when with calm, mild and Christian philosophy, she addressed them as follows:  "Be kind to one another, be kind to papa, deal tenderly with the little ones." After which she turned her eyes in the direction of her husband and said, "oh my dear mother!"  and sank away to breathe no more.  Oh evil men, to die like this / Ten thousand worlds would give / The only way to reach that bliss / Will be like her to live.   Clinton, NC. Independent.

Oxford Times, July 22, 1857

Married:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Hiram Gordon of Redwood, Jefferson Co., to Miss Anna Arnold of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., by Rev. H.W. Gilbert, Mr. john C. Bailey to Miss Lavinia Whitmarsh.

Married:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., by Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. Sidney R. Wightman to Miss Lucretia Lewis.

Oxford Times, July 29, 1857

Died:  In Curtisville, Steuben Co. [NY], June 2d, Mrs. Mehitable [Smith], wife of Oliver A. Smith, formerly of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], aged 22 years.  Also, at the same place, May 13th, Eva Ann [Smith], daughter of Oliver and Mehitable Smith, aged 2 years.

Civil War Letter - August 1861

 Oxford Times, September 11, 1861

Ceredo, Va., Aug. 29th, 1861

Editor Times:  Dear Sir:  Perhaps some of your readers will immediately recognize the name of the place at which this communication is dated, while others would inquire of its whereabouts, &c.  This town is that laid out by Hon. Eli Thayer as the principal one of his settlements, which he projected in this part of Western Virginia, and affords in its large and commodious Hotel, stores, &c. ample evidence of the enthusiasm which characterized the projectors of great enterprises in this unfortunate section of country and which the deserted Foundries, Hotels, stores and warehouses which everywhere meet the gaze in the voyage of the "Ohio," abundantly attest.  This town is situated on the banks of the Ohio, about two miles above the mouth of "Big Sandy" which is the dividing line between Virginia and Kentucky. The number of its inhabitants at present is uncertain.  There are about thirty buildings here including a fine four story brick Hotel, stores &c, sufficient for a town of a dozen times its size, and which were undoubtedly built before there were any dwelling houses projected and which unfortunately for the capital already invested, never were built to any great extent.  It is laid out on the high bottom lands, with which this vicinity abounds, and is now about entirely deserted of its inhabitants.  The 7th Va. Regiment, Col. Leigler now forming here, occupies its spacious buildings.  As we approached from the Ohio side, the booming of cannon and the inspiring music of the drum and fife greeted our ears, betokening something of an usual interest in the camp. As we came into town we met several ununiformed companies, coming in an opposite direction who were, we were informed, just returning from the occupation of Wayne Court house about 25 miles out. A more unsoldierly appearance could hardly be made in this latter day than that exhibited by these raw recruits, but if enthusiasm in the good cause and strength of muscle and limb prevail, then will these when uniformed and equipped, be troops worthy of southern steel. As we entered camp Pierpont (so called from their new Governor), everything betokened life and activity.  The Regiment returned from a twenty mile march , many of them without shoes and all but poorly clad, were eagerly devouring their rations, the like of which they had not tasted for twelve hours at least.  Hearing that they had brought with them some prisoners of note, we were, through the kindness of Major Olmstead conducted past sentinel and guard, to their quarters.  There were nine of them. The leader, Col. Spurlock of the 167th Va. State Militia, U.S.A., a tall six footer of youthful appearance, his father, a silver haired, Methodist preacher and a member of the Richmond convention, and several privates.  They were immediately put on board a Government boat and sent to Wheeling, where they will be furnished quarters at the expense of the Government against which they have rebelled.

Having obtained a pass to go out of the State (it is under martial law here) we are about to leave that portion of the "sacred soil" which is soon to become the State of Kanawha.  Business, in southern Ohio is very much depressed, while over the border in Kentucky, everything is dead, dead,---Collections cannot be made except in Pig Iron, which is legal tender here, and then one is no better off, for if he gets rid of that he has to take pig iron for pay.  There is scarcely any money in circulation. The crops are looking finely.  On the river bottoms for miles each way nothing meets the gaze but one extensive cornfield.  Fruit of all kinds is abundant. We have just returned from a visit to a coal mine, into which we penetrated for nearly a mile, the passage in places so low that we were forced to go on "all fours."  In one place where the rock had settled and was propped up, I was prompted to ask the question "What if that should fall on us"?  My companion immediately remarked that it would be a "big thing" on us, which was doubtless meant for a joke, but I was so thoroughly impressed with the seriousness of the matter that "I didn't see it." The business of mining is reduced of course, in proportion to the inactivity of the manufacturing interests, so that there was not so much activity in the mines as usual.  The only lively things which I have seen here are the Hogs.  Someone has said that "out west" every third man was a hog, but in Kentucky the hogs are the real and not the exception.

You meet with regiments of them parading up and down with officers and privates complete, each one seeming to consider himself "Principal musician." in the "Regimental Band" and all pitching their notes on a terrible high key.  But this subject, as well as this letter must be getting to be a bore. As Artemas Ward would say, this is not intended for a "goal."   V.W.

Vital Records - Greene, NY - June 4, 1857

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 4, 1857

Shooting Affair:  We learn that a fatal shooting affair occurred last Saturday night, in the town of Nanticoke, Broome Co. [NY].  It appears that a low negro, name Tom, went to the house of an Irish woman, who was living with a man named Dyer, and claimed admittance.  She ordered him off, but he persisted in entering, and to effect that purpose, he broke the door in.  As he entered the house, the woman snapped a shot gun at him, but it did not go off.  This was in the dark.  The man then lighted a match, whereupon she fired the gun, the charge entering his heart, killing him instantly.  The woman is under arrest, and undergoing examination.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th ult., Mrs. Polly Tinker, aged 84 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 11, 1857

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., by Rev. L. Wright, Dr. D.B. Manderville of LaPorte, Indiana, to Miss Almira Tallmadge, of Norwich.

Married:  In Lincklaen [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., by Rev. L. Lawton, Mr. Austin D. Sayles of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Celia A. Scott, of Preston [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In St. Louis, Mo. on the 3d inst., Doct. John Penticost, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], aged 27 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 18, 1857

Married:  In Grace Church, Utica [Oneida Co., NY], on the 9th inst., by the Rev. Dr. Brandigee, Dr E.R. Barden, of Janesville, Wis. and Miss Jenny Freeburn, of Utica.

Married:  In North Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst. by Rev. O. Ketchum, Mr. Lucian B. Blackman to Miss Mary E. Eldridge.

Died:  In St. Paul, Minnesota Territory, May 27, Oscar F. Ketchum, late of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], aged 29 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d day of February last, Mrs. Sarah Hammond, wife of Benj. Hammond.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 25, 1857

Married:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the morning of the 24th  inst.  by Rev. H.W. Gilbert, Mr. Lucius Lumbard to Miss Jane E. Wheeler, both of this place.

Married:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst. by Rev. Mr. Whittingham, Mr. Charles Hall and Miss Celia Smith, all of that place.

Married:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst.,according to the order of Friends, George C. Carpenter, of Utica [Oneida Co., NY] to Letitia S. Knowles of Smyrna.

Married:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., by Rev. L. Wright, Mr. Joseph Y. Parce, of Norwich, to Miss Lucy Mead of the former place.

Died:  In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., Mr. Alfred Bronson, aged 80 years.

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., Mr. Derrick Race, aged 87 years.

Died:  In Whitney's Point [Broome Co., NY], on the 19th inst., Dr. George L. Reid, aged 37 years.

Civil War Letter - 27th NY Regiment - August 1861

 Union News, Broome County, NY, August 22, 1861

Headquarters, 27th Regiment, Near Alexandria, Aug. 15, '61

Friend Benedict:  In my note of the 13th, I wrote you we were to leave at one o'clock of that day, but on account of rain we did not get away until the next morning (yesterday) at nine o'clock, when we again took up the line of march for the Long Bridge, which we were to cross for the third time with thoughts and feelings slightly different from those which were uppermost in our minds when we last crossed it, on our beautiful retreat from Bull Run.  After crossing the Bridge, the end on the Virginia side is protected by a fortification commanding the river, with eight or ten heavy guns. After passing through about one mile, our road led through Fort Runion.  When we were inside the Fort, we stacked arms and devoted a half hour in extending the fortification.  It is surrounded by an almost perpendicular embankment, twenty feet in height and a deep ditch fourteen feet wide, part full of water. The parapet is surmounted with heavy guns of various calibre, (about fifty in all) some carrying shells of 160 lbs weight. At every corner guns are placed so as to rake the ditches their whole length with grape shot.  The works are built in the best manner, and 'tis considered impregnable.  The Buffalo boys, that were barracked at Elmira, are now quartered in this fort.  There are 20,000 men encamped round about within 2-1/2 miles from here that would rush in, in case of an attack of the rebels in full force. This Fort is the key to Washington from the south west.  

At the sound of the bugle, we again took our position in rank and departing by the southern entrance soon left the Fort and its occupants behind us.  Nothing of interest occurred during our march to Alexandria, more than is usual in every employment of troops. Some of the men had got their canteens filled with the "ardent" and as a necessary result, they were pretty "chunked," and were more vehement in their words and gestures than usual.  But I saw no blood spilt in the many brushes they had, in several of which I assisted to separate the combatants.

We arrived in Alexandria about 1 o'clock and maneuvered a little in the streets.  To show our proficiency, I suppose, was the object of our officers, and then marched to the field where we are now encamped.  It is just in the suburb of the South end of the city, a point of land--a sort of cape--made by the waters of the Potomac setting back for two miles at the mouth of a small stream known as Hunting Creek, forming a bay two miles in length and one mile in width.  There is a good harbor for small vessels and [...] is a capital place to plant a battery to command the bay, river and heights opposite.  There is a regiment encamped on the opposite side of the bay from us, Col. Jackson's the 18th N.Y. from Albany Barracks.  [..portion unreadable...] Jackson has orders to go to Fort Ellsworth about one mile West of this in plain sight, and where it was said we were going yesterday, and they leave today.  They have been serving as a picket guard, traveling about nine miles and coming into collision frequently with the rebel pickets.  There is a rumor of an attack upon this point, but I don't fear it much, as Ellsworth guns command all this section. The sheet is full.  But more anon.  Blockhead.    

Vital Records - Oxford, NY - June 1857

 Oxford Times, June 3, 1857

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult., at the residence of his son, Mr. Thomas Barnes, aged 64 years.

Oxford Times, June 10, 1857

A Double Murder:  A shocking tragedy occurred in Broome county [NY] last Thursday.  Charles Latourette, an insane man, stepped into a store in Union [Broome Co., NY] that afternoon, took from a show case a dagger, passed out, and plunged it into the heart of a young man named Jared Barton, aged 18 years.  Latourette was arrested, and gave as his reason for killing the man that he "didn't like his looks."  He was taken to Binghamton and lodged in jail, and about 8 o'clock, was found dead in his cell, having cut his throat from ear to ear and ripped up his abdomen with a razor he had found in the overcoat pocket of the late occupant of the cell, which had been left there by mistake.

Murder:  A murder was committed in Nanticoke in this county [Broome Co., NY], on Saturday evening, May 30th, by a woman named Mary Shannon shooting a man named Thomas Vrooman.  It seems from the testimony taken before the Coroner, that Vrooman went to the house of Dexter Dyer on the above evening and demanded to be admitted which was refused, when some words passed between him and Mary Shannon, who was Dyer's housekeeper, when Vrooman burst the door in. The woman Shannon then spoke a few words to Dyer and immediately took a gun and shot him.  Mr. William W. Davenport, of Vestal, one of the Coroners of this county, held an inquest on the body on Tuesday, June 2d, 1857, and the Jury rendered a verdict "That the deceased came to his death on the evening of Saturday, the 30th of May last, at the house of Dexter Dyer, in the town of Nanticoke county of Broome, State of N.Y., by a gun shot inflicted upon him by Mary Shannon, with the consent of the said Dexter Dyer."   Union News

Married:  At Philadelphia, on the 3d inst., by Right Rev. Alonzo Potter, D.D., Herbert R. Clarke of New York city, to Mary W. [Bailey], daughter of E.W. Bailey of Philadelphia.

Married:  In Syracuse [Onondaga Co., NY], on the 25th ult., by Rev. Wm. N. Pearne, Mr. James G. Thompson of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss J. Frances Foot, daughter of Dr. D.Y. Foot of Syracuse.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., Mr. John Perry, aged 76 years.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., Caroline A. [Pettis], daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth Pettis, aged 2 years.

Died:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., suddenly, of Cholera Morbus, Mr. Melzar W. Harrington, aged 46 years. 

 We learn by telegraph, that John Penticost, a dentist of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], formerly of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], died very suddenly one day this week at St. Louis Mo.  Sherburne Times

Oxford Times, June 17, 1857

Married:  In South Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th inst., by S.M. Robinson, Esq., Mr. Nicholas Sharpe to Miss Clara Ingraham, both of Oxford.

Married:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th ult. by Laman Ingersol, Esq., Joseph E. Daniels, of Franklin, Delaware Co. [NY], to Miss Sarah Ann Brazee, of Guilford.

Died:  In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 14th inst., only daughter of Andrew and Orrilla Jafet, aged 5 months.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult. at the residence of his son, Thomas Bicknell, aged 64 years.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on 19th of May, Mrs. Elizabeth Simmons, aged 74 years.

Oxford Times, June 24, 1857

On the morning of Saturday last, an only son of Benjamin F. Lounsberry, a bright little fellow of about four years, fell into the canal near the Sash and Blind factory, and before he could be rescued, life was extinct.  Every effort was made to restore him to consciousness, but without avail.  He wandered away unnoticed by anyone, and was not found until after considerable search, when he had been in the water so long that he was beyond the power of any skill to restore him to life.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., Mrs. Maria Matson, aged 59 years.

Died:  In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st inst., Mr. Enoch Smith, aged 76 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on 17th inst., Mr. Alfred Brownson, aged 80 years.

Gen. Jacob Morris:  The Binghamton Republican chronicles the death of this well known citizen of Broome county [NY].  His age was 83 years.  He occupied many places of honor and trust, and filled them all with unquestioned zeal and ability.  He was a man universally esteemed and his loss will be seriously felt in the village of Binghamton.

Civil War Letter - 27th NY Regiment - August 1861

 Union News, Broome County, New York

Camp Anderson, Washington, Aug. 15, 1861

Mr. Editor:  After a thousand rumors which have been going the rounds of camp speculations in regard to our term of service, and every other camp "yarn" which is in the scope of the [-?-] brain to invent, one of the most reasonable was that our regiment from its crippled state was to be manufactured into "Bologna Sausage" to feed the three year regiments, on the west side of the river. We have just received positive orders to march this afternoon at one o'clock, and take our position at Ft. Ellsworth, near Alexandria.

About twenty minutes ago, we were all called to headquarters to hear some remarks from our Col. that was.  After thanking us for our respectful bearing toward him, and praising our gallant conduct on the field, he said he could not leave the Regt. without the consent of the men.  Still he did not like to reject the position which has been tendered him and would not do so, unless the company requested it.  (He did not know of his appointment until he read it in the papers.)  He said that he felt he owed the appointment to the gallant action of the 27th Regt. as they were the men who by their acts had placed the position at his disposal.

We are to be connected for the present with Col. Hinxleman's Brigade, until Col. (now Brigadier General) Slocum is able to take the field, when he will use his influence to have us placed under his command.

Letters to be directed as heretofore.  Hib is all right and his fighting weight exceeds the "actual" by 300 lbs at least.  Everybody is packing up and I must I suppose   You will hear from me again soon.  For the present, I remain your friend, who has so justly earned his title of Blockhead.

Vital Records - Greene, NY - May 1857

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 7, 1857

Married:  In Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th ult., by Rev. J.M. Crandall, Mr. Gilbert Stanton, of Otselic, to Miss Cyrene M. Ferris, of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In New Lisbon, Otsego Co. [NY], on the 20th ult., by Rev. M. Alger, Mr. Daniel E. Teel, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Hannah Thurston, of the former place.

Died:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on hte 27th ult., at the residence of her son-in-law, C.H. Cook, Mrs. Ann Bradly, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 62 years.

Died:  On the morning of the 3d inst.  John S. Parslow, Esq.., Post Master at Lincklaen [Chenango Co., NY], aged 55 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 14, 1857

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th ult., by Rev. L. Wright, Mr. Thomas L. Cowan to Miss Sophronia Sherwood, both of this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., Erastus P. Whiting, aged 57 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango C., NY], on the 8th inst., after an illness of two weeks, of inflammation in the head, Willie Horatio [Walter], adopted son of H.N. and Mary A. Walter, aged 6 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 21, 1857

Died:  In Dooly County, Georgia, on the 27th of April, 1857, Silas Dewitt Read, aged 37 years, son of Silas and Malinda Read.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., Lavirne, [Crandall], wife of Aaron Crandall, aged 82 years.

Died:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on the evening of Saturday, the 2d inst., W.C. Hopkins, aged 50 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 28, 1861

Death of Charles F.T. Locke, Esq., Mr. Locke who went from here a few weeks since, to visit the West, reached St. Louis on his return from Omaha City, and died in the Hospital of the Sisters of Charity.  Oxford Times.

Married:  In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the morning of the 26th inst., John G. Brown, of Utica [Oneida Co., NY] and Sarah J. Thurber [Whittenhall], daughter of U. Whittenhall, of this village.

Married:  In the Baptist Church in North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th inst., by the same, Rev. Barzilla B. Gibbs, pastor of the Baptist Church in Geneva [Ontario Co., NY], to Miss Minerva C. Hartwell, of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  At New Berlin Centre [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst., by Rev. Benj. Shove, Mr. Franklin Curtis, of Norwich, to Miss Betsey Medbury, of the former place.

Died:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d inst., John Cornish, aged 45 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 29th inst., Mr. Ephraim D....(?), aged 71 years.

Civil War Letter - 8th NY Regiment - July 1861 - 1st Battle of Bull Run

Following is a letter from a soldier who participated in the First Battle of Bull Run, fought July 21, 1861.  This was the first major battle of the Civil War, a Confederate Victory that rallied the Confederacy to their cause.

Oxford Times, August 14, 1861

8th Regiment, Arlington Heights, Va., July 25th

Receiving orders on Saturday, July 20th, to prepare for marching on the following morning, we filled our haversacks with biscuit and pork, for three days rations, and got everything in readiness to move forward at two o'clock A.M.  As the day wore away, I noticed that other Regiments in our vicinity, were making the same preparations, and rumor was busy, as to where our next halting place would be. It was expected that we should have a brush with the enemy, but we did not expect it to turn out as it did.  

As night came on, our boys threw themselves on the ground to get a little rest before the march began; it was rather a cold windy night, and laying on the ground in Virginia (where dews are heavy, is not very pleasant) I endeavored to sleep, but being so cold, I arose, and building a fire, some dozen of us laid around till one o'clock, when we commenced to get things ready to fall in. Rolling our blankets, filling our canteens with water, with our muskets bright, ammunition all right, we formed company and fell into line.  It is a singular sight to see Regiment after Regiment fall into its allotted place. Not a drum was heard, nothing could be seen but the Camp Fires of the different camps, and the forests of flashing muskets of our men.  

Taking the road through the village of Centreville, and passing several Regiments of reserve, the advance column came to a small wooden bridge, a short distance from which the Rebels were supposed to have erected a Battery.  The plan of the attack seems to have been to have attacked them on two points at the same time. The advanced column consisting of about 9,000 men, under General Tyler, was to take the mountain road and attack the enemy in front, while Col. Hunter's division of 13,000 men were to take a circuit through the woods to the right, and attack them in the rear.  In the flanking division was the 8th and 27th, also the 14th and 71st New York, 2d Regiment of Regulars, and battery of artillery.  Halting for a short time, to give the first division time to advance to the top of the hill, which we could see from the Bridge, we for the first time, heard the report of artillery, which was the 32 pounder our advance column had with them, trying its range on a force of the Rebels, which they could see at a distance.  

Our division now crossed the bridge, and leaving the central column, struck to the right, through the woods. After marching four or five miles we came to an open field, and expected the enemy would open fire, but there were none to be seen, everything was as quiet on that Saturday night as if there were not a Rebel within miles around, but they were drawing us on (as in our retreat over the same ground, they opened fire from concealed batteries).  Crossing the open space, we again took to the woods, and after a fatiguing march of some eight miles, again came to the open country, it was now between 9 and 10 o'clock and we were beginning to get tired out, and wanted some refreshments, as our last meal was 6 o'clock the day before. The sun now began to tell upon us, and at every halt our boys would run to trees, or any shady place to shelter from its scorching rays.  Constant reports of artillery could now be heard, and as we came to an eminence we could see the smoke rise from the batteries of the opposing forces, while still farther to our left could be seen clouds of dust, as of large bodies of men moving along the road, we were anticipating it was "Patterson's Division" instead of which, it turned out to be Johnson's.  

We were now halted down in a meadow and laid our muskets down, expecting we had out flanked the enemy, and they would retreat that way, when we should be able to capture them (pleasant delusion, but of short duration).  We had just commenced to open our haversacks to get a bite, when the order was given to fall in, and off we started on the double quick, for the battle field, through the creek, up to our knees in mud and water, and down the road we ran.  As the sound of artillery now became louder, and more frequent, we passed on still faster, throwing our blankets and haversacks by the road side and grasping our muskets tighter, we still pressed on.  A United States officer now rode by and made the remark not to be too hasty, as we should have enough before night.  

We now came upon the scene of action, a large open space, surrounded by woods, in which were concealed the enemies infantry, while in front were their batteries. Charging over the field, we came upon the Rebels in a clump of woods.  After leaving some of our men, we drove them out and back into their entrenchments; meanwhile the rebels had got the range of us with their guns, and poured in heavy charges of grape and canister, killing and wounding our boys in a frightful manner. We now fell back and took a position on the hill, facing the Rebel earthworks, a brisk fire of musketry was now kept up on both sides, fortunately the aim of the enemy was bad, most of their balls going over our heads. The enemy still kept up a sharp fire, and seemed to have double the number of guns in play we had, but their fire was not so effectual as ours, we could see our shot and shell fall into their batteries, and towards the afternoon an explosion took place, which blew some of them into the air.  

Our Brigade was now ordered again to endeavor to capture the battery on our left. With others, we marched over the brow of the hill, and charged up towards the Rebels, when they opened with heavy discharges of musketry which we returned with interest.  Several of my comrades now fell.  On we went till within a short range of the Rebel guns, when they opened a terrific fire upon us.  The round shot and shell ploughed through our ranks.  Our Brigade was now badly cut up. The dead and wounded were lying around in all directions, dreadfully mutilated.  It was a disheartening prospect before us, 40 miles to our camp at Arlington, with no refreshments, nothing but dirty water to drink and not enough of that, with a sanguine and merciless foe upon us.  

As we retreated, I found the Regiments all mixed up, and every man making the best of his way back. Few officers were to be seen, most of them having left their men to get back as best they could.  There were exceptions, such as G... Sprague.  If the officers kept with the men, they could have retired in good order, [....portion unreadable....]  orderly retreats.  The road was narrow and partly blocked up with wagons and ambulance for the wounded.  Some of the men (to their disgrace) threw away their muskets and ammunition, some of which I picked up, and placed on gun carriages.  After marching some 7 miles, some of the poor fellows began to give out, and crawled into the woods, where they were probably taken by the enemy.  I could now hear the report of Rifled Artillery, and began to think the Rebels had cut off our retreat.  Still onward, was the road to Centreville.  Crossing the open space; which I mentioned before, I found the enemy playing upon our retreating forces.  Those that could, took to the woods on the left.  While the long line of ambulances and wagons kept straight on the road. 

As night came I reached the open road, where we had left the center column in the morning, with such exultation. What a change now. As we went to battle in all the pomp of war, we looked in fact invincible, but were now returning a disorganized mass of humanity. We had brought nearly all our cannon from the battle field, but as we came toward the bridge, had to leave some behind.  The enemy allowed us to pass in the morning without any interruption, but were now hitting the bridge most accurately with shot and shell, while another battery was playing with grape and canister on our poor fellows. Passing down the road towards the bridge, the dead and wounded teamsters were laying by, just as they fell from their horses, while some of the ambulances were upset, and the wounded thrown out to be left at the mercy of the enemy. Arriving at the bridge, I found it blocked up with broken wagons, dead men, and horses, so that we could not possibly pass.  Most of the men made their way through the water, while over their heads rattled the cannon balls.  Crossing the river we got into the woods, but were not safe from the enemy's artillery. Their shot and shell came down amongst us, and fell and exploded not a yard from me, but fortunately did not hit me.  

Feet sore and exhausted, I at last arrived at our camping grounds of the previous night, a little rest, and onward again.  From Centreville to Arlington, is 22 miles, as the night wore on some of our boys gave out, some took off their shoes and stockings and limped along as best they could.  I got into camp about 10 o'clock next morning, and was right glad to get a cup of coffee once more. We had marched from Centreville on Sunday night from 2 till 11 A.M., had fought 6 hours on the battle field, and retreated forty miles in thirty-six hours.   W.D.

Vital Records - Oxford, NY - May 1861

 Oxford Times, May 6, 1857

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. John McNitt to Miss Eveline L. Crandall, both of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

A man name Marcenus, a mason by trade, was walking on the track of the Erie RR, near Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], Friday morning, when the train approached and he stepped off.  He was instantly seized with a fit, however, fell upon the track again, and was killed.

Oxford Times, May 13, 1857

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., by Rev. A. Parker, Mr. Edwin V. Green to Miss Maria P. Carpenter, both of Oxford.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on Sunday, the 3d inst., Mrs. Persis Tracy, widow of the late Uri Tracy, deceased, aged 51 years.  Since early womanhood, Mrs. Tracy had been marked as the sure victim of that prevalent and unerring destroyer of human life, consumption.  With an energy and a buoyancy of spirit unsurpassed, she wrestled with her malady, maintaining an equanimity of temper rarely met with.  The grumbler, the fault finder, the rebel against the decrees of Providence under difficulties less trying, under sufferings less poignant, under trials much less burdensome, beheld or might have beheld in her and her life, an example of what native cheerfulness, energy, and a fixed purpose to discharge the whole duty of life, chastened and directed by the influences of religion, may accomplish under the severest trials.  For more than 20 years in appearance to the eye of her friends, and the world, she has travelled life's pathway upon the very verge of the tomb, yet she faltered not, nor did she repine, but combating disease, waring against adverse circumstances, she met boldly the duties of life, discharged them faithfully in all relations, as daughter, sister, wife and mother, and ready prepared for the last great change, put off the burden of the flesh, to be clothed in celestial garments.

Died:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY], on the 29th ult., Mrs. Ann Bradley, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 62 years.

Died:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., Frances Jane [Redfield], daughter of Mr. Chester Redfield, aged 21 years.

Oxford Times, May 20, 1857

Married:  In Harford, Cortland Co. [NY], on the 9th inst., by Rev. W.G. Hubbard, Mr. Harry J. Wattles of Lisle [Broome Co., NY] to Miss Augusta P. Dodge, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  At Maple Grove, Otsego Co. [NY], on 27th ult. Zenas Washburn, Esq., father of the Rev. Daniel Washburn.

\Oxford Times, May 27, 1857

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY] on the 14th inst., by Rev. J.G. Bartholomew, Mr. Augustus June to Miss Margaret A. Fitch, both of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst., Mrs. Susan Tracy, relict of Hial Tracy, Esq., aged 86 years.

Died:  In Dooly County, Georgia, on the 27th April, Mr. Silas Dewitt Read, aged 37 years, son of Silas and Malinda Read of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY].

Civil War Letter - 17th NY Volunteers - July 1861

 Oxford Times, August 7, 1861

Headquarters, 17 N.Y.S. Volunteers, Alexandria, July 20, 1861

After frequent changes, we have arrived into the enemy's country, where the bullets whistle and the cannon roar and also hear the groans of the wounded and dying, with no one to care for them.  These scenes make one often think of home and friends, if he has any. The boys are enjoying good health and excellent spirits.  Last night two companies of us went out skirmishing.  We have a Fort here which can be used to burn Alexandria with if necessary.  We are fully armed against the enemy and can destroy Alexandria in three hours so effectively that you could not tell whether it was a city or not.

Virginia is all hills and woods, and the houses are very few and scattering.  The houses being now mostly deserted, the soldiers find every comfortable place to camp in.  Our company watch these houses for six or eight miles around which we enjoy, for we can generally find all the food and drink we need.  We are encamped in a piece of woods about a mile and a half west of Alexandria, where we can look down upon Alexandria and see the dome of the Capitol at Washington. The Potomac river runs within half a mile of us, and the cars are constantly moving along the bank of the river  There are 1500 Indians encamped a short distance from us, and they will make the rebels tremble some day.  These Indians are dressed in the Zouave uniform and are as nice a looking Regiment as I have yet seen.   The water here is impregnated strongly with Sulphur.  At camp Mansfield the water tasted of Magnesia, so you can see the changes we are subject to in the water, thirty miles apart.  It would astonish some of the Chenango people to come here and see us lying around on the ground and in the dirt.  They would wonder how we can live so.  But we have become use to it, and can stand more than most people can imagine.  The first night we landed in the land of Cotton, we lay on a large pile of coal, with our rubber blankets under us, our knapsacks under our heads and our muskets by our side, and then drew our woolen blankets over us and went to sleep until 4 o'clock in the morning we have to shoulder our knapsacks and travel through the day.

The Ellsworth Zouaves made a pretty good haul last night at a jewelry store near Fairfax where they entered and secured fifty-one gold watches and afterwards went to a hardware store and took seventy-five revolvers.  These fellows have taken two trains of cars from Alexandria, and they now run them daily from Fairfax Court House to Alexandria conveying soldiers back and forth.  They also secured 10,000 cords of wood, so you will see they are an independent set of fellows, and take whatever they wish.  The inhabitants of Alexandria say they are not afraid of any common soldiers, but when these Zouaves show themselves, they give up.    G.

Vital Records - Greene, NY - April 1857

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 2, 1857

Married:  In the Baptist Church in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th ult., by Rev. L. Wright, Mr. George H. Fausett, to Miss Elizabeth A. Holmes, both of Norwich.

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], suddenly, on the 15th ult.., Mrs. Elizabeth [Bartlett], aged 60 years.  Also on the 26th ult., after a violent attack of erysipelas, John Bartlett, aged 65 years.  Mr. and Mrs. Bartlett were natives of Mass. and came into this region at a comparatively early period, enduring the privations and afflictions so common to the first settlers of our country, and have resided in this town during the last 37 years.  The providence which removes them thus unexpectedly from their afflicted relatives, utters the solemn admonition to the living.  "Therefore be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think not, the Son of man cometh."

Died:  In Windsor [Broome Co., NY], on Saturday evening, March 22d, Mr. Leverett Russell, aged 72 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 9, 1857

Married:  In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY] on the 3d inst., by Rev. E.D. Thurston, Mr. Adrian L. Watson, of Greene, to Miss Lucia A. Roby, of Smithville, Chenango Co., N.Y.

Married:  In This town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst., by Rev., E.D. Thurston, Mr. Samuel R. Thorp, to Miss Electa A. Miles.  

Married:  Also at the same time and place, Mr. James Chapman, to Esther O. Allen, all of Georgetown, Madison Co., [NY]

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., by Rev. L. Wright, Mr. Thearon S. Hall of Earlville [Madison Co., NY] to Miss Frances A. Carpenter, of Hamilton [Madison Co., NY].

Married:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., by Lewis E. Carpenter, Esq., Mr. James Templer to Miss Jane Moffat, both of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 16, 1857

Died:  In Oxford, on the 12th inst., Mrs. Sara Chapman, aged 71 years.

Died:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], on the 4th inst., of consumption, Rev. Perry G. White, aged 47 years.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult. Miss Julia M. [Smith], daughter of John F. and Hannah Smith, of the above place.

Death of John Lamb.  We are pained to announce the death of a former Schoolmate of ours, John Lamb, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].  He was a young man of extraordinar talents, and by persevering industry had acquired an extensive education.  He left this country about a year since to finish his studies at Bonn University, in Germany.  While there he was seized with ulceration of the bowels, and after an indisposition of about nine weeks, died.  His remains were brought home for interment by a fellow student.  They passed through here on Sunday last.  His departure in the prime of life, with promise of a brilliant future falls heavily upon all who knew him.  

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 23 ,1857

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., at the residence of her father, of consumption, Mary E. Burlingame, aged 18 years, 1 months, 3 days.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., Mary E. [Burdick], daughter of Lorenzo and Ellen Burdict, aged 6 years and 7 months.  

Died:  In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th ult. of consumption, Naomi Jane [Haight], aged 26 years.  A lingering illness preceded the departure of our friend, during which she was much wasted in flesh and strength.  She was the beloved of a large circle of friends and relatives who deeply mourn her untimely departure from the scenes of earth.  Her abiding faith in the merits of our blessed redeemer, and a consciousness that their loss is her eternal gain, is the only source of consolation to her afflicted friends.  She leaves a husband and three young children to mourn her loss, a loss that can never be repaired.  Her patience under long suffering was a triumphant vindication of the consoling influence of a perfect trust in God.  May we, her friends on earth prepare to meet her in brighter worlds above.   M.W.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, April 30, 1857

Married:  In German [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., by Rev. H.W. Lee, Mr. Charles H. Delavan, of Willet, Cortland Co., to Miss Mary A. [Willkins], eldest daughter of Rev. N.D. Willkins, of the former place.

Married:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], on the 14th ult. at the residence of the bride's father, by Rev. C. Starr, Mr. Hosea T. Pope, of Hamilton, Madison Co. [NY], to Miss Sarah A.  Nash, daughter of A.B. Nash, of Earlville.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th inst., Mrs. Amy Chapman, aged 76 years.

Died:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., Mrs. Lucy [Coats], wife of John Coats, aged 80 years.

Civil War Letter - 8th NY Regiment - July 1861

 Oxford Times, July 31, 1861

8th Regiment, Arlington Heights,, Va, July 12th [1861]

Since my last, I have had no exciting news to communicate, things remain in the same state as when I wrote last--if anything quieter.  Perhaps the calm before the storm.  I would like to be in it, if anything does take place, but as the 8th's time expires on the 25th, I am afraid, we shall not have a chance of meeting the enemy.  It is too bad, such a regiment should leave the scene of action before they can inscribe a victory on their Banner. The Grays have arrived to a high state of discipline, and are the admiration of the elite of Washington, who drive over in large numbers everyday to witness our parades.

Our Regiment did not parade in Washington on the 4th. We were kept in camp, but we managed to get up a considerable excitement amongst ourselves.  The day was ushered in by scattering reports of musketry, and we thought at first, it was skirmishing between the enemy, and our pickets. But it turned out to be some of the boys in other Regiments, celebrating the commencement of the day that gave the forefathers their independence and laid the foundation stone of "Republicanism," upon which has been reared the greatest and grandest institution of freedom to be found in Ancient or Modern history.

At midday, the 8th Regiment Base Ball Club had a grand match, which was witnessed by a large number of the Regiment.  In the night, fun commenced by Company H starting an illuminative, which example was followed by other companies. The entire camp (consisting of 200 tents) was illuminated by the light of Adamantine dips, every piece that could be found was brought into requisition, and large premiums were offered for the smallest. A torch light procession was also formed, each man holding a dip stuck in the socket of his bayonet.  All kinds of fancy dresses were improvised for the occasion, some of which were very ludicrous.  A drum corps was formed, which kept time on tin pans, plates, and in fact anything that would sound, when struck with a stick.  Our Colonel furnished some fine Roman Candles and Fire Crackers, which were freely exploded, and friend Bloomer attired in a tight fitting undersuit of Red was carried on a platform by six men, and acted as master of the ceremonies, making some fine spread Eagle speeches; we had Burlesque on the Sons of Malta and the Wide Awakes, also some mounted Growlers, one man forming the body, and another the head. All the boys thoroughly enjoyed themselves, till the Drums beat "Tattoo," and all went comfortably to bed. The "comet" was passing swiftly over, and gracefully waved his Tail.  The 14th New York, are now encamped on our left, also the 2d U.S. Dragoons, several Regiments of Regulars have also arrived on this side, and the surrounding woods, which were silent and solitary when we first came, are more alive with armed men, and the pasture and meadows are turned into a Tented Field. There are now at least fifty Thousand men on this side of the Potomac, and in Washington and around some 100 thousand. A large proportion of them are three months men, and the Regular organized militia of the different States.  It is to be regretted they have had no chance to distinguish themselves.  The 79th Highlanders are now here, and have a very picturesque appearance, they are in for the war, and are a fine set of muscular fellows.  The sons of "old Scotland" will no doubt keep up their ancient renown. 

Last Wednesday, we were ordered out for inspection and review by Gen. McDowell.  We had to carry our blankets, rolled around our shoulders, also our Canteens and Camps, what is called light marching order.  The Eighth was the first Regiment, that arrived on the Field, about three miles from camp. After us came a Battery of US. Artillery, then a regiment of Regulars, and last the 14th of Brooklyn.  We had no sooner arrived on the ground than the sky became overcast and denoted a violent storm, clouds of dust were seen to sweep over the distant camps, and as the order to "prepare for Review" was given, we began to feel the effects of it. The wind sounded like Roaring Waters, and as the stentorish voice of the Colonel was heard above the din, "to the rear, open order, march," our boys were actually swayed to and fro by the violence of the storm, while clouds of dust, from the well used roads, almost blinded us.  We presented arms, and then wheeled into column to give a marching Review; first came a US. Infantry Regiment, with their splendid marching, but very slovenly dress, some of these wearing jackets, some coats, some dress hats, some caps, and their entire uniform looked as if they had slept in them for six months, and probably they had, as they have a hard life; then came the gallant 8th with their neat uniforms, and white belts, after them came the 14th in their French looking uniforms of Blue Zouave Jackets and red baggy pants, the rear brought up by the Battery of Artillery.  We had scarcely got through before the large drops of rain admonished us that we must expect a thorough soaking. The parade was dismissed and the order given double quick time, when a lively run, in regular order took place,.  The rain now came down in torrents, while the roads were ankle deep in mud, and as we passed under the culvert of the canal, the water rushed down upon us, the thunder rolled, the lightnings flashed, and the storm increased in fierceness till we got to our Tents which we found pretty much flooded, but being used to such things we dove right in.  D.

Vital Records - Oxford, NY - April 1857

 Oxford Times, April 1, 1857

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 25th, by the Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. Orrin D. Powers of Greene [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Celinda C. Steere, of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult., by Rev. J.G. Bartholomew, Mr. John V. Frost, to Miss Maria H. Smith, both of Oxford.

Married:  In Marathon, Cortland Co. [NY], Jan. 4th, by Rev. Mr. Smith, Mr. Ransom Fretts of Tompkins Co. [NY], to Miss Cynthia M. Allen of the former place.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on Saturday, the 28th of March, Mary [VanDerLyn], only daughter of Gerardus and Jane VanDerLyn, aged 33 years.  Miss VanDerLyn's health had been declining for some months, but as no marked disease could be detected, she and her friends were looking forward with hope to the bright and balmy Spring, with its thousand harmonies, which she with an ardent love for the beautiful, well knew how to appreciate, to recall the faded bloom to her cheek, and strength to her wasted and fragile form.  She was anticipating with enthusiastic delight the awakening of her flowers to lite and beauty, for of all the lovely garniture of earth, they were to her the loveliest.  It was not to be!  The blossoms which we fondly hoped would welcome her back to returning health, will breathe their fragrance o'er her grave.  But we rejoice to think of her in the paradise of God, where the sunshine is his smile, crowned with a garland of unfading flowers.

Miss VanDerLyn added to fine mental culture, the many graces conferred by the heavenly principles of Christianity.  She was reserved and retiring to an unusual degree, seeming to shrink intuitively from the glare and tumult of life, so that strangers knew little of the treasures of knowledge and goodness, which she possessed; but in the charmed circle of home, where alone the character can be truly developed and understood, she was loved with deep devotion. Seldom has the destroying angel left a deeper gloom or sterner anguish to attest his inexorable sway; and her mother's broken heart speaks her eulogy more eloquently than words have power to do.

She has gone!  Serenely and calmly as she had lived, her features radiant as if they caught the light of seraph faces bending o'er her, she folded her spirit's wing in death; but the memory of her gentle virtues and unobtrusive worth will long remain as the soft luster of the setting sun lingers lovingly round the glowing west.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th ult. Louisa [Gleason], wife of the late Joel F. Gleason, aged 49 years.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango co., NY], March 3d, Mr. Andrew Rorapaugh, aged 52 years.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th Feb., Dr. W.H. Wilbur aged 42 years.

Oxford Times, April 8, 1857

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on 31st ult., Amy Adell [Ketchum], only child of Egbert and Martha Ann Ketchum, aged 7 years.

Died:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Mr. Jesse Keech, aged 83 years.

Oxford Times, April 15, 1857

Married:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on Sunday, April 12th, by Rev. J.W. Mitchell, Mr. Lester Smith of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Lura Brown, of the former place.

Died:  Very suddenly, on Sabbath morning, the 12th inst., Mrs. Sara Chapman, aged 71 years.  The relatives and friends of the family are respectfully invited to attend her funeral from the residence of her son-in-law, J.G. Thorp.  "Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth, yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them."

Died:  In Earlville [Madison Co., NY], on the 4th inst., of Consumption, Rev. Perry G. White, aged 47 years.

Oxford Times, April 22, 1857

Married:  At the residence of the bride's father, on Tuesday, Aril 14th, by the Rev. A. McDougall, Mr. David S. Miller, of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Harriet L. Hall, daughter of Col. S.S. Hall, of Earlville.

Oxford Times, April 29, 1857

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., by Rev. F. Rogers, Mr. Elias G. Forbes, of Lane, Ill., to Miss Charlotte M. Carter, of the former place.

Married:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 16th inst., by Rev. Wm. M. Delong, Orlando F. Cowles, of Greene [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Olive P. Hotchkiss, of the former place.

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th inst., by the Rev. H. Duane, Mr. Charles T. Race of East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Laura A. Caton, of the former place.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th, Ezekiel C. Willcox, aged 33 years.

Civil War Letter - 8th NY Regiment - June 1861

 Oxford Times, July 3, 1861

8th Regiment, Arlington Heights, Va., June 20 [1861]

Nothing of very great interest has occurred since my last letter.  We are going on in the same old style, expecting, but not receiving orders to forward march.  This suspense makes days seem as long as weeks.  But the weather, here now being pleasant, we get around the "woods," with which we have become quite familiar. The branches of the stately "Oak and Cedar," bend before summer breeze, and bow with reverence at our approach, while the feather tribe of the Forest are gaily singing, and the very B-frog's sonorous voice seems as if they were crying, "Union, Union, Union."

It is now noon; light nights, and a quiet walk through Gen. Lee's private Grounds down to the Road is very pleasant.

Our boys are making themselves quite happy here.  One of them in my company has a "Banjo," which often suffers, for as he cannot pitch into the Rebels, he pitches into it, and soon makes tears run down our sun-tanned faces, and keeps our tent in a roar of laughter.  Another has a Castanet, and some are good singers, so we manage to pass evenings pleasantly.  I don't know how the weather is up North, but it is getting very hot down here, with a very unpleasant abundance of insect life, but as we keep our Tents and Camps clean, it keeps them down some.  We had a severe storm here last week which lasted three days, and completely washed us out. the rain came through our tents, as through a sieve, and set us all to work, bailing out with our tin cans.  Our tents are made of cotton, and poor quality at that, no doubt sold to "Government," by some Swindling Contractor, for first class linen.  Ours would answer well for a Water Cure Establishment or a shower bath.  I went up to the 60th Reg't camp on Sunday, they have thrown up quite a formidable Earthworks, and have mounted some 32 pounders on them. They are a gallant set of men, and will give a good account of the Rebels if they come across them, and they devoutly wish they may.

We have been reviewed twice by the President and Secretary of War, and have had two parades of Divisions of about twelve thousand men, under General McDowell.  They made a splendid appearance, and were remarkably proficient in Field movements.  I hope the officers will provide equally good when it comes to practice. We have fine soldiers, and good officers will ensure our success.  Things are looking lively here tonight, our battery of 6 guns, have been sent forward, and we have just received forty rounds of ammunitions, and orders to hold ourselves in readiness, to march at a moment's notice. The 69th Reg't have moved, and the 13th Rochester boys and several others are under orders, so you may look for my next to be dated from some other place.  That place, I should like to be  "Richmond."

A poor fellow was brought into our camp the other night mortally wounded.  He was in the affair at Vienna, and received the ball that was aimed at General Tyler.  It struck him above the arm, and passed right through his shoulder, mortification has set in, and the Doctor says he cannot recover.   He was a fine, handsome looking fellow, and came from Connecticut.  He was carried on a litter to Washington today. They caught the Rebel that fired and intend to hang him--a just retribution for his crime.

It is the general feeling here, that we are on the eve of a great battle, if so, may God defend our cause.  One thing is certain, we shall do all that men can do.  Hardships of camp life, and strict discipline in our lines have somewhat altered our nature, strengthened our frames and "Made us all anxious, and ready for the fray, / Be it tomorrow, or any other day. / Our powder is dry, and our Bayonets are bright, / With Pistols at our side, and Belts buckled tight, / We will throw to the breeze, the stars and stripes / And 'neath them firmly we'll stand. / Till we put every traitor and Rebel to flight, / or kill, capture and some of them hang."

W.D.

Vital Records - March 1857

Oxford Times, March 4, 1857

Married:  In the Universalist Church, at East Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 22d, by Rev. C.S. Brown, Rev. S.L. Rorapaugh, of Smithville to Miss Sarah E. Cary, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY]. 

Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 5, 1857

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 3d inst., by Rev. H.W. Gilbert, Mr. Edwin F. Andrews, of Topeka, K.T. (formerly from Maine, Broome Co. [NY]) to Miss Lucy D. Wilson, of Franklin, Delaware Co. [NY].

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th ult., by Rev. L. Wright, Mr. Cyrus L. Clarke, of Iowa, to Miss Adelia S. Evans, of Norwich.

Married:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult., by Eld. M.M. Everts, Frederick Palmer, Esq., of London, Michigan, to Miss Adelia Hall, of the former place.

Died:  At East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., Mrs. Mary Sharp, in her 85th year.  Mrs. Sharp was born in 1772, in the town of Fishkill, Dutchess Co. [NY], where she resided until the close of the American revolution, when she married Bartholomew Sharp and removed to Greenbush, Rens. Co.  From thence she removed to Guilderland, Albany Co., and in 1812, she removed to Greene, Chenango Co., where she resided until her death.  Mrs. Sharp has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Chruch over 20 years, and until her death, which was one of peace, she manifested a firm hope in her Saviour. She was ready to assist the needy and comfort the afflicted.  She was an affectionate wife and mother, and has at length gone down to the grave full of years.

Died:  In Homer [Cortland Co., NY], on the 22d ult., Dollie A. [Bowen], daughter of Ira Bowen, Esq., and sister of Mrs. Nelson Pellet, of Norwich, aged 24 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst., James Foote, aged 81 years.

Died:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], Eld. Latha, of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], aged 86 years.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th ult., Dea. Gardiner J. Kenyon, in the 61st year of his age.

Oxford Times, March 11, 1857

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., by Rev. H. Gee, Mr. William T. Mandeville of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Adelia Thurber, of this village.

Married:  In the Baptist Church, in this village [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., by Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. George Bavin to Miss Almira N. Wade, both of Norwich.

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., by the Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. Daniel Holdredge, of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss P.A. Rhodes of Oxford.

Married:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Joseph N. Rathbone of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], to Mrs. Hannah Hill of Preston.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d February, Mr. Isaac Preston, aged 34 years.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., Mr. James Patterson, aged 56 years.

Died:  In Jackson, Miss, on the 12th Miss Louisa Merrill of Oxford, Chenango Co. [NY], aged 23 years.  The deceased came to this State, principally as a teacher about four years ago, since which time she lived in this city, and neighborhood, and was highly esteemed and beloved by all who knew her.  With naturally amiable and cheerful disposition and kind heart, she was not long a stranger in our midst, but soon won for herself many warm and devoted friends.  She made a profession of her faith in Christ Jan. 1853, and continued from that time a consistent, cheerful, growing Christian.  Distrustful at first of her own piety, she hesitated about making a public profession, and did not, until she had tested and had examined well the experience of her own heart.  Thus having given herself to the Saviour, when the dew and freshness of youth was upon her, she was made to realize the truth of that precious promise.  "Those that love me, I will love, and those that seek me early shall find me."  Admonished by disease months before her death, that her pilgrimage would probably be short, the world gradually lost for her its attractions, while she "looked for a city whose builder and maker was God."  She spoke freely and calmly of death, and was willing to be released from the pains and sufferings of earth and time, though she murmured not at her sufferings, which were at times severe.  When passing through the final struggle, conscious that death had come, she remarked: I am going; rapidly going; and in a few minutes fell asleep in Jesus. There was the impress of peace with God,  "Death without a sting, the grave without a victory."

"How blest the righteous when he dies, / When sinks a weary soul to rest, / How mildly beam the closing eyes. / How gently heaves the expiring breast, / Life's duty done as sinks the clay. / Light from its load the spirit flies, / While heaven and earth combine to say / How blest the righteous when he dies."

Jackson, Miss, Witness

Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 12, 1857

Married:  In German [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., by Rev. E.D. Thurston, Mr. Alexander Lewis, to Miss Almira E. Birdlebough, all of the former place.

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., by Rev. James Abercrombie, Dr. Andrew Baker, to Mrs. Sarah M. Fitch, both of Norwich.

Married:  In Christiana, Wis., on the 12th ult., by Elder Z. Campbell, Mr. J. DeMott Crandall, to Miss Annie Maria Crandall, of the former place.

Died:  In this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 24th ult., Mrs. Margaret Bunnell, daughter of Mr. Wm. Winter, aged 31 years.  A lingering illness proceeded the departure of the friend above named.  Wasted in flesh and strength she lingered in the circle of home and kindred much longer than could have been expected. The disease through which she sank down to the grave was contracted during a residence at the West.  Watched over by tender, sisterly nursing and care, surrounded by family and friends by whom she was warmly loved, trusting to the hopes and consolations of Christ's Gospel she softly breathed out her soul to God.  She has left a bereaved husband and two young and lovely children to lament a loss that can never to them be filled.  Few things are more touching amid the sorrows of life than the bereavement sustained by tender children in the loss of a fond mother's love and watchful care. The more unconscious they are of their deprivation the more vividly we feel for their sad condition.  But "their Angels" in such care as the Saviour says, "do always behold the face of my father who is in Heaven."  From a family which numbered thirteen children to which the deceased belonged, the first severances that have occurred by death have been within two months past, a brother at the West having died only a few weeks preceding the wasting away of her whose decease we now notice.  But a short time previous to the departure of the deceased from life, she sought the comfort of the Holy Communion, knowing in very deed that it was to be the last partaking of that holy Supper until she should taste of that cup anew in the circle of a brighter world.  It was in fact the divine nourishment on which she was sustained and prepared for entrance into the valley of death.  May mourning hearts find in the pledges she had left and in the memory of her virtues, a balm to their sorrows.

Died:  In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., after a lingering illness, Naomi Jane [Haight], wife of Elihu Haight, aged 26 years.

Died:  In this village [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst., Benjamin T. Stevens, aged 76 years.

Oxford Times, March 18, 1857

Died:  At the Branch Mills, Manitowoc County, Wis., on Tuesday, the 24th inst., Mrs. Lydia Lenneville, wife of Francis Lenneville, aged 56.  Mrs. Lenneville was born at Oxford, Chenango county, N.Y., and was granddaughter of Gen. Hovey, founder of that town.  She became a resident of this County long before its organization, and was the authoress of some very interesting reminiscences published several years ago in the Green Bay Advocate.  For some years past, she was in feeble health, and the disease which finally consumed her, made sure and fatal progress.  She was an intelligent and agreeable lady, esteemed for her kind and estimable qualities, and the loss to her family and friends, is severe, beyond description.  Manitowoc Herald.

Died:  In Higginsville, Oneida Co. [NY], on the 8th inst., Miss Sarah J. Barnard, in the 20th year of her age.  The sudden death of this young lady give a painful shock to a large circle of friends, by whom she was dearly beloved.  In society she was genial and warm hearted, drawing around her the love and esteem of her associates who are left with bursting hearts to lament her sudden and early death.  She was the picture of beauty and health, until about 14-hours previous to her departure from this world.  Thus are youth and beauty crushed, a parent's fondest hopes lost by the hand of Death.  This scene tells us loudly and with awful emphasis how vain and futile are our hopes of the future.  Father, Mother, Brothers and Sisters bowed down by grief and woe, this loss to you is like the sound of a mighty oak falling in the stillness of the forest, shattering every limb from its parent body. No language can describe the sorrow and anguish you now endure, although she was warm in your hearts. The King of Shadows was deaf to the cries of friends or the charms of beauty.  He has seized with his cold and icy grasp a loved one, and she has gone to the land of spirits.  It is heart rending to part with one so promising and lovely.  But the decree of God must be obeyed, and she now, like the drooping flower, rests among the unnumbered dead.  To her young friends, who associated with her so frequently, and were in her company almost daily, saw her enjoying life, health and happiness and in the short space of a few hours, behold her clothed in the habiliments of death, how pale! how silent! She now cannot rise to welcome you with that natural smiling face. Can you follow her to the open grave and stand among the habitations of the silent dead without there receiving an impression which shall sound in your ears for life?  You there see the narrow house appointed for all  living.  Fix your eyes on that last sad scene, and view life stripped of its beauty an ornaments.  You there must acknowledge the uncertainty of life and the power of death.  While you dropped the sympathetic tear over that friend, did you not think that you too must die.  Then let us improve this solemn warning. Engrave it upon our memories in a manner which will profit us hereafter.  To Miss Barnard's immediate relatives and friends who are most heart stricken at the loss so many deplore, we can sincerely, deeply and most affectionately sympathize with you in this afflictive bereavement and cheerfully leave the dead in the hands of that Being who has done all things well.

Sleep on gentle Lady, / And may the Angels of Heaven / Crown thee with flowers forever.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 19, 1857

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst. by Rev. E.D. Thurston, Mr. George W. Allen, of the former place to Miss Harriet O. Truesdell of Harpursville, Broome Co. [NY].

Married:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., by Rev. Mr. Huntington, Mr. Clark S. Bradley to Miss Harriet Godfrey, all of the above place.

Died:  In King's Settlement [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th inst. of consumption, Mrs. Maria P. [King], wife of Albert B. King, and daughter of the late Nathan Parker, Jr., of Norwich, aged 24 years.

Died:  In King's Settlement [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., Bennie [King], infant son of Albert B. and Maria P. king, aged 1 year 3 months and 16 days.

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] on the 12th inst., Mr. Matthew Griswold, aged 73 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 10th inst. Mr. James Patterson, aged 56 years.

Died:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY] on the 3d inst. Mr. John Barnes, aged 76 years.

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] on the 25th ult. at the residence of her son, Mrs. Lucy [Hewes] relict of the late Elijah Hewes, aged 82 years and 10 months.

Oxford Times, March 25, 1857

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst., by Rev.  H. Gee, Mr. Eli Willcox of this village, to Mrs. Mary Sawyer of Middlebury, Ohio.

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., by Rev. H. Gee, Mr. Lyman Elder of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Melinda Alexander of Norwich.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., Lucretia Maria Brooks, youngest daughter of Horace and Sally Brooks, aged 12 years.

Died:  In Buffalo on the 16th inst., at the residence of his son Charles E. Noble, Cyrenus Noble, Esq., in the eighty-first year of his age.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, March 26, 1857

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th inst. by Rev. E. Hoag, Mr. Jacob Vosburgh, to Miss Hannah M. Minshin, both of Norwich.

Married:  In Lansing, Tompkins Co. [NY], on the 11th inst., by Rev. J.R. Burdick, Mr. Alfred W. Avery, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Amadella Head, of the former place.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., by Rev. J.W. Mitchell, Mr. Addison Taylor of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Emily C. [Dimmick], daughter of Ebner Dimmick, Esq., of the former place.

Married:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst. by Rev. J.W. Mitchell, Mr. Benjamin P. Conkey, of Lebanon, Madison Co. [NY], to Miss Clarinda E. King of the former place.

Married:  In Columbus [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst.by Rev. Mr. Row, Mr. Leonard A. Marble to Mrs. Rosetta Blackman, both of the above place.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst. by Rev. J. Chamberlin, Mr. James Foster, of Sherburne, to Miss Caroline Gorton, of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Rockdale [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d ult., by Rev. L.G. Weaver, Mr. Lewis Coon, M.D., of Mount Upton [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Lucia Caragan, of Saratoga Springs [Saratoga Co., NY].

Married:  In Charleston, S.C., on the 5th inst., by the Rev. Wm. Bours, Daniel Gray, Esq., of New York, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Eunice N. [Bours], only daughter of the late Luke Bours, Esq., of Charleston.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., of typhoid fever, Amos B. Packer, aged 46 years.

Died:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th inst., Mrs. Betsey A. [Hickok], wife of Harlow Hickok, aged 36 years.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th ult., Doct. W.H. Wilbur, aged 42 years.