Saturday, September 11, 2021

Soldier's Letter, Civil War, 114th NY Regiment, March 1863

 Oxford Times, April 15, 1863

Letter from the 114th NY Infantry Regiment

Bayou Boeuf, La., March 1863

We left Brashear City on the morning of the 22d of March.  Then the orders came for us to strike tents on the evening of the 21st, great dissatisfaction was manifest in the whole camp, for all thought we were to evacuate, and you well know my feelings on that subject, but I soon found it was not to be evacuated. The men all thought it a disgrace to leave before a single gun was fired, as it most assuredly would be.  None of the men knew the great plan of our noble General Weitzel.  The move that we made on the 22d will I think be remembered.  The country here is cut up with Bayous that you can travel with small steamers from the Gulf to the Mississippi River, and Brashear City is on an island, and no force being here, the rebels were moving down Bayou Boeuf to cut the telegraph wires and destroy the bridge and so run in on both sides of us with their gunboats, but they failed in the attempt, as we think they will in all. This place is easily held, and we can go back to Brashear city and get ready for a fight in one hour if necessary. There is a small force with the gunboats left there, and the place will be held, and the war will be prosecuted to the end of time if the rebels do not lay down their arms. The health of the Regiment is generally good, yet there are some sick. We have lost three of Co. H since we left:  William S. Willis of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], we buried with all the honors of war on the 13th.  The death of Simeon Eckerson of Unadilla [Otsego Co.., NY] occurred March 16th, at the Marine Hospital at New Orleans.

I am contented to stay here and contend with the rebels through life, if they will not come to terms sooner.  The fact of the case is, soldiers will get dissatisfied and will write to their friends in the north the feelings of the troops, the dissatisfaction and the hardships of war, but the north can rest assured that the troops are ready to do their duty, and that we are the same patriotic men that left Oxford, comprising the 114th Reg., and to a man are ready to defend their country's cause to the last.  The news comes here often that the Empire State will not submit to the Conscription act.  They ought not to.  Any number should volunteer that is called for, like men. They are no better than those that have left. They have no more to leave than I have left.  It is their country that calls as well as mine.  There is no excuse only cowardice or secesh principles.  We are sorry to hear that politics are taking the place of patriotism at the north. At the commencement of this war the blood of the nation was dear to all; it was regretted that it must be shed.  

There is scarcely a day passes without bringing fresh evidence of the cruelty with which suspected union people are treated inside the rebel lines.  Without trial or the shadow of justice, they are exposed to the most shameful treatment, robbed and even murdered unarmed.  This is the bravery of the South.  For instance, let me mention one circumstance that I was knowing of at Brashear City, which we left on the 22d.  Berwick on the other side of the bay stands unharmed, the rebels under cover of the buildings ran down one gun, and commenced one night firing on our gun boats.  The fire was returned too briskly, and they left. The next morning a flag of truce came requesting the commander of the post not to fire on peaceable citizens. They wanted the protection of the union troops, but allowed the rebels to hide behind the property they wanted us to protect, and never gave us any warning of the approach of our enemy.  What is this, the chivalry of the south or the cowardice of which they have a double share?

Perhaps you all think I am too bitter towards the South. The outrages that have been committed on our troops compel me to wish for the black flag to be raised.  Don't think me reckless, but feeling for rebels has left me.  The war has continued long enough, but some will say be careful, you may harm some union man south.  Now if there is any backslider there that is losing his first love and his patriotism, let me invite him to look back to the time when  the 114th Reg. left there, and think of the spirit then manifest; think of the partings of friends, the throbbing hearts, the warm pressure of hands, the patriotic songs, the God speed that was bid us, the warm tears that fell on the clasped hands of parting friends, the sobbing good bye that was scarcely audible, the waving hands as we left our home, the prayers of the aged and all the blessings given us, and then let him. if he dares prove recreant to the cause, and he is not worthy the name of man.  Yet I feel assured that the old proud state of New York will be every ready to do her duty, and never withhold her helping hand, and if any one in Oxford should dabble with politics they may be dabbling with the better blood that is in the army.

Vital Records, Norwich, NY, August 1865

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, August 2, 1865

Married:  ROGERS - BARBER:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d inst. by J.G. Reynolds, Esq., Isaiah Rogers to Miss Angelia Barber, both of Binghamton [Broome Co., NY].

Married:  JACKSON - MOULTER:  In Binghamton [Broome Co., NY] on the 13th inst., James A. Jackson to Miss Deetta A. [Moulter], youngest daughter of M. Moulter, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], all of Binghamton.

Died:  BISHOP:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], July 27, Louisa A. [Bishop], daughter of Lyman and lodema Bishop, aged 31 years.

Died:  HOYT:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th inst. Mrs. Amelia Hoyt, wife of Dea. Chauncey Hoyt, aged 56? years.

Died:  COWLES:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d inst., Olive P. [Cowles], wife of Orlando F. Cowles, aged 27 years.

Died:  MANWARRING:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d inst. Mrs. Lucius Manwarring, aged 52 years.

Died:  BULKLEY:  In Coventryville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst.,Mr. Brownell Bulkley, aged 83? years.

Died:  HANFORD:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], July 21st, Hannah [Hanford], wife of Merrick Hanford, aged 61 years.

Died:  CLARKE:  In South Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], July 25th, John Clarke, son of James Clarke, aged 48 years.

Died:  COATES:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], June 25th, George T. [Coates], only child of John K. and Rebecca Coates, aged 14 years, 5 months and 10 days.

Died:  RICE:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], July 23d, Henry Rice, aged about 24? years.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, August 9, 1865

Married:  In Warrensburg, Mo., June 18th, by Rev. R.A. Foster, Henry P. Hull of the Military Telegraph Corps, and formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Kate Rouch, of the former place.

Died:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst., Calvin G. Brown, aged 50 years, 1 month and 28 days.

Died:  In Knoxville, Tioga Co. [NY], Calvin G. Brown, aged 50 years 1 month and 28 days.

Died:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], June 27, 1865, Mrs. Lucy E. [Crandall], wife of Elias J. Crandall, aged 24 years.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], July 25th, Mrs. Mary Isabell Miller, daughter of Mr. H. Rose, aged 25 years.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, August 16, 1865

Married:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], August 8th, by Rev. J.H. Chamberlain, John H. Shaw to Miss Paulina J. Morey, both of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Dundee, Yates Co. [NY], August 2d, by Rev. J.D. Sutherland, Rev. Ezra Tinker, formerly of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Sarah J. Wright, daughter of Samuel H. Wright, A.M., M.D.

Married:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 31st ult., by Rev. E.D. Thurston, Amor Hoag, of Columbus [Chenango Co., NY] to Lucy A. Vincent of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th ult. by Rev. J.B. Hyde, Mr. Allington Olden, of Williamsport, Pa., to Mrs. Delos Payne, of Greene.

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY] on the 3d inst., by Rev. A.B. Jones, Mr. Avery Winchel, of Greene, to Miss Augusta Fox, of Triangle [Broome Co., NY].

Married:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], August 1, by Francis U. Garatt, Mr. Delos L. Shelwood of Smyrna, to Miss Olive L. Borden, of Preston [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst., of diptheria, Owen [Isbell], son of Eleazer Isbell, aged 15 years, 4 months and 10 days.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., Mr. P. Weston Yromans, aged 26 years.

Died:  In Minneapolis, Minn. 20th ult. Rufus Baldwin, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult. Mr. Nelson Andrews, aged 19 years.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d ult., Walter A. Baldwin, son of Wm. Baldwin, aged 34 years.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th ult. Mrs. Zevirah Lamb, aged 94 years.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th ult. Charles A. [Lewis], son of Charles H. and Julia Lewis, aged 10 years.

Died:  In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], July 1st, of brain fever, Joseph B. Rathbun, son of Joseph T. and Mary Rathbun, aged 25 years.

Friends all do mourn when loved ones die / And are buried from our sight, / To wake no more till Christ shall come, / And break death's gloomy night.

Tis true, a loved one now is gone, / Who has left his friends to mourn; / Has gone, and bid this world adieu, / Into a world unknown.

He died when he was in his prime, / Just in his manly bloom. / When death's cold hand grasped his form / And laid him in the tomb.

But oh! we could not wish him back / To a world of care and strife. / To have him die another death / And hear the ill's of life.

And may his friends be all prepared / For that eventful day, / When they, too, from this gloomy world / Shall all be called away.

J.I.S.



Friday, September 10, 2021

Vital Records, Oxford, NY, March 1865

 Oxford Times, March 1, 1865

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 14th, by Rev. J.L. Burrows, Mr. -?- Clark of Preston [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss M.J Cary of -?-

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th ult. Mr. Richard Smith, aged 87 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d ult. Abigail [Hackett], wife of Daniel Hackett, aged 73 years.

Died:  At East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], after a short illness, on the 10th? ult. Mr. Henry Day, son of Alexander Day, aged 21 years.

Died:  In East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult. Mr. Elijah Fenton, aged 86 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult., Eli L. [Gilbert], son of Geo. M. and Fanny J. Gilbert, aged 9 months.

Died:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 9th, 1865, Mr. James O. Stratton, aged 31 years.  The deceased was born in Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], and educated at the Academy there.  In early life he became the subject of divine Grace, and united with the Presbyterian Chruch in Oxford, at the age of 10 years, and three years since on removing his residence connected himself with the 2d Congregational Church, Coventry.  Mr. Stratton's character was marked for his industry, simplicity and humility; meek and consistent as a Christian; kind and obliging as a friend and neighbor; honest and upright in all his dealings with his fellow men; tender, affectionate and faithful as a husband and son. During his protracted ill health for the last four years, he has endured (at intervals) the most excruciating pain, yet such was his uncomplaining nature and industrious habits, but few save his own bereft companions and mother, were aware of his intense sufferings.  For months previous to his death, "wearisome nights were appointed onto him" and "he endured a great fight of affliction." But his hope in his Saviour remained firm and unshaken, an anchor to his soul, sure and steadfast.   His abiding trust in the merits of the Redeemer was thus enduring and supporting.  In view of his departure he was ready, anxiously waiting for the -?- Jesus, said he is present with me.  "Already have I [...unreadable...]"We shall meet again in Heaven."  His death was calm and peaceful without a struggle or a groan, wearily he fell asleep in Jesus.  Leaving a young and stricken wife whom he dearly loved and cherished, a dear kind mother, and many relatives and friends who deeply mourn his loss, while they feel for him to die was gain.

Oxford Times, March 8, 1865

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst. by Rev. E.H. Payson, Mr. Charles J. Stratton to Miss Mary Kinney, all of Oxford.

Married:  At Little Falls [Herkimer Co. NY], Feb. 18th, by Rev. B. F. MeLaughlin, Mr. Wm. D. Adams, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Julia Farrell of Frankfort [Herkimer Co. NY].

Married:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on 1st inst., by Rev. W. G Queal, Mr. Hiram P. Hovey of Gulford, to Miss Lydia S. Ireland of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 19th, Mr. John Nugar, aged 67 years.

Died:  In Panola, Ill., Feb. 1st, Mr. Edwin French, son of James French, of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], aged 22 years.

Died:  At Friendship, N.Y., Jan. 14th, of consumption, Prof. James Sylla, A.M., aged 32 years.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 27th ult. Eunice [Alcott], wife of Mr. Joseph Alcott, aged 60 years.

Oxford Times, March 15, 1865

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst. by the Rev. W. C. Bliven, Mr. Zelotes Burton to Miss Sarah A. Dory, all of Oxford.

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst. by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Royal Newton of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], to Mrs. Catharine L. Keech of Preston [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Columbus [Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st Feb. by Rev. T.M. Williams, Mr. Calvin Lee of Greene [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Samantha Jones of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst. by Rev. Mr. Hubbs, Mr. Isaac B. PerLee to Miss Laura A. Pellet, both of North Norwich.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 4th inst. Flora Augusta [Russell], adopted daughter of Rev. Bishop A. Russell, aged 3 years and 7 months.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY] on the -?- ult. Mr. Isaac Bill, aged 83? years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst. Deborah Fairchild [Eggleston], wife of Nathaniel Eggleston, Jr., aged 51 years.

Free Again:  Major H.A. Roome set free at last from captivity in rebellion, has returned very much to the relief and delight of his friends and neighbors. The Major is looking better than might have been expected, and he assures us that he has been preserved at considerable personal expense, rather than through the care or kindness of his keepers.

Robert Pickens, of the 10th N.Y. Cavalry, set free from the durance vile of Libby, is again with his friends.  His estimate of the care and comforts of a captive Union soldier at Richmond, is not flattering, and his appearance gives weight to his words.

Oxford Times, March 22, 1865

Married:  At Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY], on the 9th inst. by Rev. S. Johnson, Deacon James Harrison to Mrs. Sarah Ann Harrison, both of Smithville Flatts [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst. by Rev. M.S. Wells, Mr. John Smith to Miss Augusta H. Payne, both of butternuts, N.Y. [Otsego Co., NY].

Married:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst. by Rev. J.H. Chamberlin, Mr. H.G. Stevens to Miss Leetina St. John, both of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], March 12th, of inflammation of the lungs, Mr. Harry Pellet, aged 55 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst., Loria [Burrows], wife of Henry Burrows, aged 60 years.

Died:  On Hart's Island, New York Harbor, March 2d, Mr. Meritt C. Shaver, of the 9th Heavy Artillery, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], aged 23 years.

Oxford Times, March 29, 1865

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st inst. Mr. Myron Robbins, aged 55 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst., Helon V. [Davis], only daughter of George W. and Catharine Davis, aged 8 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., Mary E. [Hammond], daughter of Chester and Sophronia Hammond, aged 14 years.

Died:  At the Army Square Hospital, Washington, Dec. 14th, of chronic diarrhea, Clark H. Woods, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], a member of Co. K, 10th N.Y. Cavalry.

Died:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on 13th, Mr. Thomas Gorton, aged 73 years.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on 17th inst. Mr. Charles A. Lathrop, aged 51 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th inst., Dea. Orris Hamilton, aged 61 years.

Died:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., Fanny [Rich], wife of I.P. Rich, aged 42 years.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th inst., Mr. Simeon Fosgate, aged 28 years.

Oxford Times, March 15, 1865

Death of James W. Eaton

James W. Eaton, son of Mr. Warren Eaton of this place [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], died in the Prison Hospital at Salisbury, N.C., January 3d last.  Mr. Eaton was a member of the 5th N.Y. Heavy Artillery, and had more than once bravely and gallantly faced the enemy upon many a well fought field, doomed at last to suffer death by the cruelty and inhumanity of rebel captivity.  He was a young man of exemplary life, blameless character and pure patriotism.  The following extract from a letter to his afflicted family, by a friend who was with him in his last hours tells the sad story of his sufferings and his death.

"He had frozen his feet, I think on or about the 21st of  Nov., it being very cold there at that time.  Sometime in Dec., perhaps near the middle of the month, learning his situation, I sent for him to come to the Hospital where I was nursing, and succeeded in getting him admitted, hoping thereby to save his life, even if I could not his feet, which when I come to dress, presented a horrible picture.  He told me that he had frequently tried to get in the Hospital but like many others with frozen feet had been unsuccessful, the Doctors either having a dread of frost bites or what was worse, little or no feeling for our sick, suffering and dying prisoners.

At the time he was admitted, his feet were swollen twice their usual size, the flesh on his toes had already become putrid, and it was not long before they dropped off, and he was minus toes.  Amputation became necessary, consequently on the 29th of Dec. he had to submit to that painful operation.  The right foot was taken off mid-way between the toes and ankle, the left leg four inches perhaps below the knee.  He had borne his afflictions up to this time with so much fortitude and cheerfulness that I had entertained strong hopes of his recovery.  But the shock was too much for his system, not having proper diet or stimulants to keep him up, the diarrhea setting in, he ran down very fast.  During the last hours of his life he lay stupid, apparently unconscious of anything that was transpiring, in that state he dropped off.  He left his testament and diary with me to take care of for him, little thinking perhaps at the time that he would so soon be called from his trials, afflictions and imprisonment there to a brighter world above.

In conclusion, let me assure you that after he was admitted in the hospital, he had, so far as our limited means would permit, every care and want attended to.  Being his nurse I watched over him night and day, and did all in my power to make him comfortable and restore him to health."

Most respectfully, &c.  Luther T. Dodson

Thursday, September 9, 2021

Vital Records, Norwich, NY, July 1865

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, July 5, 1865

Married:  In Washington, D.C., June 24th, 1865, at Saint Aloysius' Church, by Rev. Father Hitzelberger, Mr. John M. Richards, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Sarah M. [Locke], youngest daughter of the late Andrew R. Locke, of Washington.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], May 30th, 1865, by Rev. M.G. Wadsworth, Mr. Alfred Chase, to Miss Sarah J. Case, of North Norwich.

Married: In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], June 21st, by Rev. J.L. Jones, Mr. Henry M. Cushing, of Cazenovia [Madison Co., NY], to Miss Harriet E. Willard of New Berlin.

Married:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], June 11th, by Samuel Steere, Esq., Mr. Stephen Price, to Miss Harriet Alcott, both of Columbus [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  By the same, June 12th, Mr. W.L. Haight to Miss Mary E. Coziear, both of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], July 2d, Mr. Daniel Green, late of the 20th N.Y. Cavalry.

Died:  In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], July 1st, Mr. Joseph Benjamin Rathbone, aged 25 years.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, July 12, 1865

Married:  WHEELER - ALEXANDER:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst. by Rev. W. C. Bowen, Mr. Nathan Wheeler to Miss Caroline P. Alexander, both of Oxford.

Married:  WEED - WHEELER:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY] on the 9th inst. by Rev. W.C. Bowen, Walter Weed to Miss Louisa Wheeler, both of Oxford.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, July 19, 1865

Married:  In Windham, Conn., July 12th, 1865, at St. Paul's Church by Rev. Alfred  H. Stubbs, Mr. Elisha G. Hammond, of Windham, to Miss Rebecca Wheeler, daughter of R.R. Avery, Esq., of Norwich, N.Y. [Chenango Co.].

Married:  In East Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], July 5th, 1865, by Rev. L. Lawton, Mr. William R. Davidson, to Miss Mary D. Finch, both of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], July 4th, by Rev. W. Burnside, Mr. Robert R. Clark to Miss Betsey A. Stokes, both of Smyrna.

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], July 10th, by Rev. F.B. Peck, Mr. John H. Hall, of Oxford, to Miss Janette Lockwood, of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Greene: July 11th, by Rev. Wm. C. White, Mr. William S. Anner, of New York City, to Mrs. Katharine F. Park of Greene.

Married:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], July 9th, by W.T. Priest, Esq., Mr. Cornelius O. Wood to Miss Maggie Harrigon, both of DeRuyter, Madison Co. [NY].

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], June 23d, Mr. Ira Bartholomew, aged 75 years and 10 months.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], July 11th, Mrs. Martha G. Lucas, aged 76 years.

Died:  In Bath, Steuben Co. [NY], June 16th, N.J. Wheeler, Esq., formerly of Greene [Chenango Co., NY], aged 40 years.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], June 16th, Mr. Seth Johnson, aged 63 years.

Died:  In Cleveland, Ohio, July 1st, Mr. Daniel Dennison, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 78 years.

Death of Judge Bowne:  Hon. S.S. Bowne, whose health had been feeble for a year past, died at his residence in Morris [Otsego Co., NY], on Sunday last.  He was about seventy years of age, and had filled several responsible public positions, having represented this county in the legislature of 1834, and this district in Congress in 1841-3.  He was elected County Judge in 1851.  He also held the position of Deputy Collector of the port of New York under Mr. Schell. Judge Bowne was  man of many noble and generous impulses, of decided ability, an able debater and advocate before a jury, and was widely known as a lawyer and an active politician for many years.  Cooperstown journal

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, July 26, 1865

Married:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], July 4th, 1865, by Rev. W.G. Queal, Mr. William C. Thayer, of Butternuts [Otsego Co., NY], to Miss Maria Bennett, of Guilford.

Married:  In Georgetown [Madison Co., NY], July 12th, by A. Ellis, Esq., Mr. L.E. Thayer, of Montrose, Pa., to Miss L.L. Hemenway of Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], July 22d, 1865, Eliza [Ransford], relict of Hascal Ransford, deceased, aged 58 years.

Died:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango co., NY], July 13th, Josephine M. [Chamberlain], daughter of Sherman Chamberlain, aged 11 months.

Died:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], June 25th, of diptheria, George T. [Coates], only child of John K. and Rebecca Coates, aged 14 years, 5 months and 10 days.

Fled is the sunlight from our hearts, / Dreary our hearth so lone; / Oh! how we miss his cheerful smile, / And the music of his tone.

Ah! can it be that eye is closed, / Which beamed with love replete, / And that we ne'er again may list / For the coming of his feet?

Oh! how we long once more to smooth / His soft and shining hair; / How vain! he roams Elysian fields, / Kept by the Shepherd's care.

Among the Savior's jewels / There'll be no brighter gem, / For He ne'er chose a purer one / To deck His diadem.

In Eden's blissful garden / He'll keep our bud, so fair; / And when 'tis ours to pass from earth, / Oh! may we meet him there.

Wednesday, September 8, 2021

Vital Records, Oxford, NY, February 1865

 Oxford Times, February 1, 1865

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th ult., by Rev. F.P. Peck, Mr. Oliver P. Miner of Preston [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Ruama Gleason of Oxford.

Married:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 17th ult. by Rev. E. Holroyd, David B. Daily of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Amelia L. Martin of McDonough.

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th ult., by Rev. F. Rogers, Mr. John S. Brown to Miss Mary Nichols, all of Greene.

Married:  In Buffalo [Erie Co., NY], Dec. 29th, by Rev. E. Marvin, Wm. Marvin, A.M., of Hoboken [Hudson Co., NY], to Miss Susan C. [Clarke], daughter of Rev. Ethan Ray Clarke, of Buffalo.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th ult. Lucretia [Ingraham], wife of Mr. Isaac Ingraham, aged 49 years.

Died:  In Canton, Del. Co. [NY], Jan. 30th, Miss Susan F. Merrell, aged 26 years, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In North Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on Jan. 25th, Miss Ellen L. Thompson, of consumption, aged 26 years.

Died:  In East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 20th Dec., Daniel A. Tremain of Co. E, 114th Reg't, aged 21 years, son of Richard Tremain.

Died:  In Buffalo [Erie Co., NY], on Jan. 6th, of typhoid fever, Ray [Clarke], son of Rev. Ethan Ray and Mary F. Clarke, aged 10 years.

Fatal Accident:  Platt Mandeville, of Nineveh [Broome Co., NY], a young man of seventeen years, had his hand caught in a corn sheller, by which the middle finger was crushed and his hand otherwise mutilated.  The accident occurred the 3d of January.  After about a week it was found necessary to amputate the middle finger, which was a very painful operation.  Lockjaw followed, and young Mandeville died the 13th inst.  Binghamton Standard.

Oxford Times, February 8, 1865

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], Jan. 24th, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. Charles C. Rogers of Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Mary A. Franklin.

Married:  In Lincklaen [Chenango Co., NY], on Jan. 24th, by Rev. A.G. ..ark, Mr. P.L. Champlin of Buffalo [Erie Co., NY] to Miss Phebe Miller of Lincklaen.

Died:  On the 20th January 1865, in Field Hospital, 1st Div. 5th Corps, Army of the Potomac, Joshua Gorton, eldest son of the late T.H. Gorton, Esq., of Butternuts, N.Y. [Otsego Co.], and private in the 10th Reg't New Jersey Vol. Inf.

Died:  Also, on Jan. 22d, at the residence of her brother in Skaneateles [Onondaga Co., NY]  Harriet M. Gorton, youngest daughter of the late T.H. Gorton, Esq., of Butternuts, NY [Otsego Co., NY], formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], aged 21 years.

Died:  In Pharsalia, on the 25th ult, Mr. John Jerome Grant, aged 39? years.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY] on the 2d inst. Hattie L. [Davis] daughter of David L. and Mary A. Davis, aged 2 years. 

Oxford Times, February 15, 1865

Married:  In this village [Chenango Co., NY], on 8th inst. by Rev. J.C. ransom, Mr. George W.  Aldrich, to Miss Elizabeth Crandall, both of Plymouth. [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In North Adams, Mass., at the residence of the bride's father, by the Rev. I.M. Burrington, Samuel E. Lewis, Esq., of Preston [Chenango co., NY] to Miss Lemira D. Sanford, of the former place.

Married:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 28th ult. by Rev. E. Holroyd, Mr. Gilbert H. Button of Columbus [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Lydia Huntley of German [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  By the same, Jan. 30th, Mr. Alonzo Hilliard to Miss Melissa L. Beckwith, all of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In German [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 1, by the same, Mr. Leander Beebe of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Ellen A. Stuart of German.

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst. by Rev. A.B. Jones, Mr. David D. Taft of Triangle [Broome Co., NY] to Mrs. Maria Potter of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst., Ira B. [Davis], son of Edson and Helen C. Davis, aged 5 years and 9 months.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], Feb. 1st, Eddie D. [Eccleston], son of Stephen L. and Emily M. Eccleston, aged 4 months and 17 days.

Died:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 10th inst. Mr. James O. Stratton, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 31 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 2d inst., John C. [Wheeler], infant son of Charles B Wheeler, aged 6 months.

Died:  In Minneapolis, Minn. at the residence of her son-in-law, William Dickie, Jan. 23d, Mrs. Betsey Fish, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 78 years.

Died:  At Upton Park, near Mt. Upton [Chenango co., NY], on the 3d inst. Richard Morris, aged 53? years.

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst. Mr. Walter Hyde, aged 78 years.

Oxford Times, February 22, 1865

Died:  At the Haddington Hospital, West Philadelphia Oct. 29th?, Mr. Benjamin Richards of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 32 years, a member of the 5th Heavy Artillery.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on 13th inst., Mr. Frederick Terwillinger, aged 74 years.

Deid:  In Minneapolis, Minn. Feb. 1st, Mary F. Bull, wife of James A. Bull, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], aged 28? years.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 13th Mr. William Dalton, aged 85? years.

Tuesday, September 7, 2021

Soldier's Letter, Civil War, 114th NY Regiment, June 1863

 Chenango American, July 23, 1863

Letter from the 114th New York Regiment

Before Port Hudson, La., Monday, June 29, 1863

Dear American:  I have not forgotten you, but the inconveniences of a "life in the woods," besides the lack of paper, have rendered it almost impossible to write home, even.  Then, again, we have to be constantly "prepared for action, " our "traps" and accoutrements ready to put on at a moments notice, in case we are called upon to make or repel a charge, sleeping with one eye and both ears open, and our hands upon our gun.  The last you heard from me, we (the regiment of Chenango) were at Brashaer City until marching orders, but to what point it was not known, though we all supposed that Port Hudson was our destination, and so it proved, as you have before probably heard.  We left Brashaer on Friday the 29th of May, and on Sunday the 31st, we entered the woods which surround the rebel stronghold.

Your readers have seen the letters of the New York correspondents to the Time, Tribune, and Herald, describing the fighting the troops went through when they first came here, how they drove the rebels from point to point, out of rifle pits, ravines, and temporary breast works, until they came to the inner fortifications which surround the town, where they were checked, though not driven back, and it will not be necessary for me to enter into detail.  Even if I were disposed to favor you with all news, I could not, for there are "barriers" in the way which a "mere private" cannot overcome, and which no one but a licensed correspondent of some "great daily" are permitted to penetrate.

You have read much, probably, about the [battle of] Port Hudson....[unreadable].... I look over the ground which has been gained at the point of the bayonet and in many a hand to hand struggle, that our troops must have fought like fiends incarnate to drive the rebels as far as they did.  The ground is cut up into ravines and gullies, on the banks of which a handful of determined men ought to withstand a hundred, yet our troops charged up and down the precipitous sides with such resistless fury that their terror struck opponents sought shelter beyond the last line of their defenses, where they knew they could not be followed.  This last line of the rebel works is upon the Port Hudson side of a deep ravine which runs nearly around the beleaguered town, and consist of earth works thrown up, and a broad ditch up on either side, the inside of the wall being built with a terrace or platform for men to stand upon to defend against scaling.  You can imagine what an amount of work the rebs must have done since last fall, when I tell you that their lines are from five to seven miles long, and since we came here they have thrown up works inside of these.  Our troops have not been idle, and save the disastrous charge of the 14th of June, in which Col. Smith lost his life, there have been no false moves.  I have not dared to attempt a description of what I saw of that, to many, fatal Sunday.  Companies of the 114th B, G, E, F, and D, were selected to lead the storming party, the whole under command of Col. Smith and Maj. Morse.  Col. Smith and Maj. Morse headed the column, and as we approached the bluff and they gave the word to charge, we rushed up the hill in the face of a deadly fire from the rebel riflemen.  But no body of men could do an impossibility, and after our Colonel and Major were wounded, Capt. Bockee gave orders to the men to protect themselves by every available means.  Co. B, was upon a round ledge of ground, exposed to a scathing fire from front and flank, and the only means we could employ to protect ourselves was to lay flat upon one bank.  Companies E and G charged through a ravine and succeeded in getting into the ditch at the foot of the rebel works, from which there was no egress without fearful danger, until night lent her aid.  It was between 5 and 6 o'clock in the morning when we made the charge and from 6 a.m. till nightfall were we exposed to a constant fire from the enemy and the excessive heat of the sun.

It is an awful sight to see men maimed and shot down at your side, and an intense feeling of dread comes over the system when at each moment you expect to fall, pierced by the fatal bullet.  I have hard men say that they did not dread to enter battle, but a thinking man, a man who has a father and mother, sisters, brothers, and especially one who has a wife and children to leave to the cold charities of a selfish world, cannot but fear to meet death in such a manner.  Yet a good soldier does his duty, without murmuring, leaving himself in God's care, and if he goes through the struggle and comes out safe he thanks Him for it.

You have, e're this reaches you, received a list of the killed, wounded and missing, through official sources, and I will not undertake to furnish names.  I will speak of only one of the members of Co. E, Corporal John Stoughton, who has been missing since the fight of Sunday, and who, it is feared, fell upon that fatal field. The last seen of him, he was loading and firing from the cover of a stump and probably fell at that point, though no trace of him has been found.  He is missed from the ranks of his company, where he was very much esteemed. When our people removed the dead from the field, the features of the fallen had so changed and the stench was so intolerable, that a search could not be made with any success, and they were buried will all that their pockets contained that would help recognize them.

Thursday, July 2:  Yesterday I had permission to visit our lines of approach, and as I had a desire to look over our recent battlefield, I turned my steps thitherward.  I never experienced a greater surprise, for the pick axe and spade had completely changed the surface of the ground, making fine, safe roads for the approach of troops to the very foot of the rebel parapet.  If it is the design of Gen. Banks to gain a footing at this point, he certainly will succeed, for our sharpshooters are on a level with the rebel, and if a man shows his head he is picked off without ceremony, thus protecting a storming party until they are ready to scale the parapet.  

Just received instant marching orders.

Yours in haste,   A.

Vital Records, Norwich, NY, June 1865

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 7, 1865

Married:  On Thursday evening, June 1st, 1865, at the residence of the bride's parents, by Rev. S.W. Rowe, Mr. John W. Welles, of Norwich, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], to Miss O. Cerelle [Grandin], eldest daughter of D.H. Grandin, of Jamestown, N.Y. [Chautauqua Co.]

Married:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 23d, by Rev. L.C. Queal, Mr. Henry Button to Miss Clara Card, all of Norwich.

Married:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 21st, by Rev. S.S. Hayward, Mr. S. Egelston, of Norwich, to Miss Fannie Emilie Crawford, of Franklin [Delaware Co., NY].

Married:  In Ischua, Cattaraugus Co. [NY], May 24th, by Rev. A.T. Cole, Mr. Edwin A. Hull of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Mary A. Hatch of the former place.

Died:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on Friday morning last, June 2, 1865, after a protracted illness, Mr. Nathan D. Staunton, in the 74th year of his age.

Mr. Staunton was a native of Stonington, Ct.,  While but a young man, he served with the patriotic militia of New London County, in repulsing the furious bombardment of that town by the British fleet under Commodore Hardy in the war of 1812.  He removed to this village in 1815, and to the time of his death has been identified with its business and its moral and material interests.  He early attached himself from conscientious convictions of duty to the Methodist Church, and when in 1827 the Methodist Society of Norwich was incorporated, he, together with George H. King, Caleb Seabury, Miriam Saunders, William D. Burdick, Thomas Neverson and Reuben Reynolds, were chosen the first Trustees.  He survived, it is believed, all his associates, and lived to see the Church grow from a feeble and inconsiderable beginning to a prosperous membership of nearly 300 souls, and the Society in possession of a beautiful and commodious house of worship. To these results he contributed liberally by his means, and more largely by his living exemplification of Christian piety in his daily walk and conversation.

He was industrious in habits, upright in his dealings and his honesty and integrity were proverbial.  As husband, father, neighbor and friend, he was gentle, kind, obliging and true.  He ever shunned contention and strife, and his whole life was singularly blameless, and when "Father Staunton" died, all felt and acknowledged that one of our best and purest citizens had passed from among us.  His reward is in Heaven.

Died:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 31st, 1865, Mr. John Bliven, in the 64th year of his age.

Died:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 22d of consumption, Agnes Mitchell [Bowen], wife of Henry Bowen, Esq., and daughter of the late Dr Charles H. Mitchell, aged 25 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], May 29th, Mr. James H. Rathbone, aged 26 years.

Died:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], April 25th, Mr. Stephen H. Park, aged 62 years.

Drowned:  Murray G. Williams, aged 11 years, son of Nathan G. Williams, of this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] was drowned while bathing in the river, below the village, on Friday morning last.  He was in company with two lads younger than himself and in attempting to cross the river on a slab or plank, he lost his hold, and sunk.  Some two hours elapsed before his body was recovered.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 14, 1865

Married:  At Emanuel Church in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], June 7th, 1865, by Rev. E.Z. Lewis, Mr. M.M. Munson of Utica [Oneida Co., NY], to Miss Helen J. [Jones], daughter of Capt. William Jones, of this place.

Married:  At the residence of the bride's father, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], June 7th, 1865, by Rev. Samuel Scoville, Mr. David E. Morgan, of Delhi, Delaware co., Ohio, to Miss Cornelia A. Houk, of this place.

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], May 31st, by Rev. L.E. Spafford, Mr. Thomas M. McLagan to Miss Lavon M. Davis, both of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], May 30th, by Rev. R.H. Spafford, Mr. Peter E. Wheeler, to Miss E.H. Race, both of Greene.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], May 31st, by Rev. J.R. Haswell, Mr. C. Leroy Holmes to Miss Mattie L. Reese.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], June 2d, 1865, Olive [Race], wife of Joseph Race, aged 55 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], May 22d, Aesenrath J. [Sadd], eldest daughter of Simeon C. and Melinda C. Sadd, aged 19 years, 8 months and 12 days.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], June 6th, Mrs. Dexter Harris, aged 66 years.

Died:  In New York, June 3d, Mr. Orrin Wheeler, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co., NY], aged 49 years.

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 28, 1865

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], June 19th, 1865, by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. William Sayles, of Preston [Chenango Co., NY] to  Miss Alice R. Aldrich of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Junction City, Kansas, June 4th, by Rev. Charles Reynolds, Mr. William S. Blakely to Miss Josephine Morgan, formerly of Norwich, N.Y. [Chenango Co.].

Died:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], June 17th, 1865, Mr. Jason Belden, aged 63 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], June 5th, of diptheria, Jack [Hall], oldest son of Francis and Sarah Jane Hall, aged 7 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], June 22d, Ransom [Macdonald], youngest son of R. Macdonald, Esq., aged 8 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], suddenly, June 17th, Gertrude A. [Powers], wife of Myron Powers, aged 64 years.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], June 12th, Mr. Milton Wetherby, aged 64 years.

Died:  In the Lunatic Asylum at Utica [Oneida Co., NY], June 20th, Mr. James P. Pendell, in the 29th year of his age.  His remains were brought to Wood's Corners, in this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] for interment.

Died:  In Wilmington, N.C., May 23d, Sarah T. [Price], wife of Dr. William J. Price, aged 41 years, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  At Camp Sheridan Hospital, Va., February 16th, of chronic diarrhea, Mr. Luman W. Aldrich, of Co. P, 90th N.Y.S.V., formerly of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY], aged 33 years.

Fatal Accident:  A boy named George Darragh, about 13 years of age, whose home was in this village [Norwich, Chenango co., NY], on Sunday last, between Oxford and East Greene, while engaged in driving horses on the canal, was almost instantly killed.  He was walking behind his team, which at the time was towing a heavy load, when the whiffletree broke, a piece flying back and penetrating almost through his body.  His remains were brought home to his parents Sunday evening.

Monday, September 6, 2021

Vital Records, Oxford, NY, January 1865 & Norwich, NY, 1818

 Oxford Times, January 11, 1865

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], Tuesday evening, Dec. 20th, by Rev. D.H. Macurdy, Maj. J.D. Lownsberry of the Western, U.S.A. to Mrs. Mary E. Davidson, of Oxford.

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst., by Rev. F.B. Peck, Mr. George Vandyke of Chenango Forks [Broome Co., NY] to Miss Eliza Rogers of Smithville Flatts [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on 9th inst. by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Sanford A. Cooke of Copake [Columbia Co. NY], to Miss Libbey Steadman of  Norwich [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on 28th Dec. by Rev. E. Holroyd, Mr A.O. Blivin to Miss Betsey J. Smith, all of McDonough.

Married:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 1st inst. by P.E. Wescott, Esq., Stephen L. Avery of Norwich, to Mary A. Hubbard of Hartwick [Otsego Co., NY].

Married:  In German [Chenango Co., NY], on 27th Dec. by Rev. E. Holroyd, S. Lewis Comstock of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Frances E. Stuart.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on the 15th ult. by Rev. M.G. Wadsworth, Mr. Ralph D. Widger to Miss Huldah M. Miner, both of Preston [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In East Greene [Chenango Co., NY], Dec. 27th, by Rev. L.E. Spafford, Mr. Smith B. Patterson of Hamden [Delaware Co., NY], to Miss Emily J. Loyd of East Greene.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 30th ult. Mrs. Harriet A. Shattuck, wife of David Shattuck, aged 30 years.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 25th Dec., Mr. Alpheus Gale, aged 68 years.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], on 27th Dec. Mr. Joel Hatch, aged 73 years.

Oxford Times, January 25, 1865

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d int. by Rev. Wm. C. Bowen, Mr. Henry McQueen of Norwich [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Frances E. Squires of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on 3d inst., by Rev. C. Steere, Mr. John S. Thorp of Canton [St. Lawrence Co., NY], to Mrs. Mary Nicholson of McDonough.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst. of pneumonia, Mrs. S. Diana Russell, wife of Rev. B. A. Russell, aged 53 years.

Died:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], on 21st inst., Mr. David Hough, son of Daniel W. and Caroline Hough, aged 24 years.

Died:  In McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], on the 19th inst. Charles [Beardsley], son of the late Lucius Beardsley, aged 14 years.

The Republican Agriculturist, Norwich, NY, January 7, 1818

Married:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on Thursday, by R.D. Deilay, Esq.:

Mr. Otis Phillips to Miss Olive Sheperson

Elias B Weaver to Lydia Chapman

Lendell Cornwell to Clarissa Tracy

Gordon Weaver to Caroline Bennett

Dudley Bennett to Phebe Loper

All of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY]

The Republican Agriculturist, Norwich, NY, December 17, 1818

Died:  At New Orleans, 11th November, after a painful illness, Lieut. James Stone, of the 1st Regiment United States infantry, a native of Massachusetts.

Died:  At the residence of his son, in Virginia, on the 27th of September last, Stephen Sayre, Esq., in the 85th year of his age, and on the next day, his wife.

Died:  At Burlington (N.J.) on Saturday morning, the 28th of November, in the 66th year of her age, Mrs. Mary Bloomfield, wife of General Joseph Bloomfield, late governor of New jersey.

Sunday, September 5, 2021

Vital Records, Norwich, NY, May 1865

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, May 24, 1865

Married:  SCHREUDER - MARTIN:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], May 17, by Rev. A.N. Benedict, at the residence of Orlando Randall, Andrew B. Schreuder and Miss Ellen Martin, both of Syracuse [Onondaga Co., NY].

Married:  THORPE - BROWN:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], May 9, by Rev. E.H. Payson, Prof. Jno. W. Thorpe and Miss Charlotte M. Brown.

Married:  HULL - COOK:  In Oxford, 14th May, by Rev. E.H. Payson, Henry Hull of Oxford and Miss Abby A. Cook of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  JENKINS - LEWIS:  At Laporte, Ind., 9th inst., by Rev. G.C. Noyes, James B. Jenkins, Esq. of Oneida Castle, N.Y. [Oneida Co., NY] and Miss Marietta Lewis, daughter of Clarke Lewis of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  DILLEY:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], May 10, Mrs. Ruth Dilley, aged 74 years.  Not lost, but gone before.

Died:  MATHEWSON:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], May 10, after a brief illness, Mrs. Antoinette [Mathewson], wife of Berthier J. Mathewson, and only daughter of R.A. Holden, aged 26 years.

Died:  HARRIS:  In Knoxville, Tenn. April 8, Jared Harris, formerly of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], aged 41 years.

Died:  HOLMES:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 11, John T. Holmes, aged 18? years and 10 months.

Died:  BOLLES:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], 7th inst. John W. Bolles, aged 29 years.

Died:  WATTS:  In New York, while on his way home from the army, Daniel Watts, of Wellsboro, Pa., formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 31, 1865

Married:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], May 27th, 1865, by John L. Brown, Esq., Mr. Ephraim B. Shelley, of Co. I, 16th Regt, Heavy Artillery, N.Y.S.V. to Miss Frances Letson of Preston.

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], May 17th, 1865, by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. Mordecai Evans, to Miss Francisca Aldrich, both of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], May 4th, Mary S. [Seeley], wife of William R. Seeley, aged 38 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], May 20th, Mr. Jesse Drake, aged 83 y'rs.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], May 15th, Abigail Jackson, aged 82 years.

Particulars of Jeff Davis' Arrest

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, May 24, 1865

The Herald's correspondent gives the particulars of the arrest of Jeff Davis, fully confirming the official accounts already published.  When the guard went to the left, they were met by Mrs. Davis en deshabille with "Please, gentleman, don't disturb the privacy of ladies before they have time to dress!"  "All right madam," said the corporal, "We will wait until you have on your dudds."  Presently there appeared at the left door an ostensible old lady with a bucket on her arm, escorted by Mrs. Davis and his sister.  "Please let my old mother go to the spring for some water to wash in." said Mrs. Davis in a pleading tone.  "It strikes me your mother wears very big boots," said the guard, as he hoisted the old lady's dress with his saber and discovered a pair of No. 13 calf skins; "and whiskers too," said the sergeant as he pull;ed the hood from her face, and lo! Jeff Davis in all his littleness, stood before them.  A "Spencer" was pointed at his ear, and he was marched back to the left and placed in durance vile.  Only about eight thousand dollars in specie was found with the party, tho' several boxes were not yet searched. They were brought along, however, and will be delivered to the authorities at Washington.  There were found on the person of Post Master General Regan, papers showing a large amount of specie shipped from London, which will also be delivered to the authorities by Col. Pritchard. The latter, with his prisoners started immediately for Macon.  The party were all sullen, and Davis remarked to Col. Pritchard that had they not been taken by surprise they would not have surrendered without a fight. While on the road, they received a copy of President Johnson's proclamation offering $100,000 reward for Davis. Davis read it and trembled, his hands dropped to his side, and with a groan he dropped the paper.  His wife picked it up, read it aloud, and the entire party burst into tears. The cavalcade arrived at Macon on the 13th, and soon after took a special train for Atlanta, and then to Augusta. Stevens and Wheeler were captured by detachments of Gen Upton's division, and Clay and lady surrendered to Gen. Wilson at Macon.

From the 114th Regiment

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, May 24, 1865

Camp near Washington, D.C., May 15, 1865

Messrs. Editors:  A few short weeks at farest and the 114th Regiment of N.Y.S. Vols. which left you nearly three years ago, 1,000 strong, will be in your midst.  Our relations as social members of Chenango and Madison counties, ceased when we took the oath to defend our Government against all its enemies. Those social relations we hope soon to renew.  With deep feelings of anxiety and an almost painful consciousness of our responsibility, we marched to the scene of conflict.  How well we have performed our duty we leave to history, the record of our deeds--to say.  As individual members of the organization we are proud of the part we have acted, and return with our hearts filled with gratitude to Almighty God, and the deepest joy for their almost perfect consummation.  May of us went away boys. We come back men. Those who do not return, sleep their long, last sleep.  Their many graves by the wayside is evidence enough of their long fatiguing marches, and on the battlefields the numerous graves speak more eloquently than the pen or the tongue of eulogy of their deeds of valor and bravery.  There they will rest in widely separated graves and nothing but the voice of God can re-animate their dust.  If there were any false distinctions between us when we left, there is none now.  Wealth, pride and birth have been forgotten in the high duties of patriotism. The only distinctions at present, are founded on moral principles and loyalty.  He who possessed these is a true soldier; but lacking these essential qualities, he is despised.

You must  not expect us refined.  Our rude and primitive style, practiced by the Bayous of Louisiana, and on the hills and by the streams of Virginia, has caused us to forget what little, we ever knew of the delicate and genteel ways of the elegant and proud, who have practiced only the arts of peace. We are not very good, or over pious (and we say it with feelings of regret) neither are we particular in selecting words to express our thoughts.  Unrestrained liberty of speech, in regard to style and matter for a long period will tell badly for us in the circle of our more sensitive and delicate friends.  We mean no harm.  Habits under uncongenial circumstances have been formed and they cling to us. But in saying this, we do not wish to be shielded from criticism or censure when it is deserved. All we ask is charity and patience, and we will try to regulate our manners and conduct in due time to the gentle and to us, welcome customs of peace.  On the battle fields and in the camp, we have shirked none of the duties of citizenship.  Our voices were heard and our influence felt in the great political struggle.  In addition, we have surrendered a portion of our liberty and taken fearful hazards and responsibilities from the dangers of which God only has delivered us.  With love and pride, we point to the consistency and patriotism of our murdered President, to our heroic Generals, to the faithful and unyielding army, to the proud and invincible navy, and lastly, though not least, to the good, brave and true men and women at home, who have aided us in every possible way; who have spoken words of cheer and courage; who have aided our families and frowned with a terrible meaning upon cowardly traitors who would strike us at our backs.  With all such we hope soon to renew our relations, trusting in their wisdom, charity and forbearance for all shortcomings and excesses of which we may be guilty in the happy hour of our restored country, and the taking again of our long lost liberty.

Sergeant 114th

Saturday, September 4, 2021

Vital Records, Norwich, NY, May 1865

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 3, 1865

Married:  In North Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], April 12th, 1865, by Rev. E.. Ruddock, Mr. William Dickinson to Miss Evelyn Smith, all of Pitcher.

Married:  In Baltimore, Md., April 2d, by Rev. J.T. McCartney, Mr. Charles E. Merritt of Eaton Rapids, Mich., to Miss Addie C. Story, of the former place.

Died:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], April 29th, 1865, of typhoid fever, Mr. Jeremiah Tuttle, aged 49 years.

Died:  At the National hotel, in this village [Chenango Co., NY], April 27th, Mr. Charles Henthorne, of Lawrence, Mass., a soldier belonging to the 3d Veteran Reserves.

Died:  In Lansing, Mich., April 9th, Helen E. [Wood], only daughter of Abner and Cornelia A. Wood, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], aged 13 years, 9 months and 15 days.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], March 27th, Mrs. Rhoda Rogers, aged 84 years and 8 months.

Died:  In Newbern, N.C., Jan. 3d, Augustus St. Amand, Jr., of Battery I, 3d N.Y. Light Artillery, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], April 18th, Mrs. Mary Osgood, wife of the late luther Osgood, aged 53 years.  

Died:  In Elmira [Chemung Co., NY], April 19th, of lung fever, Mr. Henry Tuetga of Co. A, Veteran Reserve corps.  He enlisted in Co. I, 114th N.Y.S.V. from Otselic [Chenango Co., NY], upon the organization of the Regiment.  

Died:  In Hospital, at Wilmington, Del. April 17th, Mr. Clarke Widger, of Co. F, 7th N.Y. Artillery, aged 33 years.

Died:  In Hospital at New Orleans, Sept. 5th, William P. Derrick, son of Marvin and Mary Derrick, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 23 years, 10 months and 15 days.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, May 10, 1865

Married:  KINNEY - ROWLEY:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], 24th April, by Rev. L.R. Spafford, Henry Kinney and Miss Frances M. Rowley, all of Oxford.

Married:  DAVIDSON - FRENCH:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], April 2d, by Rev. M.G. Wadsworth, Hiram Davidson and Miss Mary L. French of North Norwich.

Died:  WESTFALL:  In Smithville [Chenango Co., NY], May 1st, Geo. W. Westfall, aged 15 years.

Died:  FERRIS:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], April 14, Joseph L. Ferris, aged 41 years and 3 months.

Died:  RICHMOND:  In Hamilton [Madison Co., NY], May 1st, of typhoid fever, Frank J. [Richmond], daughter of joseph S and Mar B. Richmond, aged 22 years and 10 months.

Died:  James M. Heady, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], was killed in the engagement before Petersburg.  He was a member of the 4th N.Y. Heavy Artillery and was a good soldier, and faithful to the cause he had espoused.  We regret his early decease.

Died:  BUELL:  At the house of his son-in-law, Dr S.M. Hand, in Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on Sunday evening, may 7th, after an illness of two days, the Hon. Grover Buell, in the 80th year of his age.  The deceased had been for many years a judge of the Broome County Courts, and was esteemed for his integrity intelligence and prudence.  He was a brother of Mr. Elijah Buell of King's Settlement.  His remains were sent to Windsor, in Broome county, [NY] his late residence, for interment.

Died:  Burned to Death:  David English, an old man about 84 years of age, living in what is called the Sap Bush, in this town [Greene, Chenango Co., NY], was burned up with his house and all it contained, on the 24th ult.  He had been living alone for some time, and was quite infirm.  Friends were in the habit of going in and helping him at times.  It is supposed that the house caught fire while he was asleep, and thus he lost his life.  Greene American

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 17, 1865

Married:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], April 30th, 1865, by Rev. R.L. Warriner, Mr. Edwin R. Warriner, Principal of the New Berlin Academy, to Miss Mary Jannette Dargavel, of the former place.

Married:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], April 26th, by Rev. M.G. Wadsworth, Mr. Hiram Davidson, to Miss Mary L. French, of North Norwich.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], May 4th, by Rev. M.G. Wadsworth, Mr. Joan S. Smith, to Miss Ellen M. Lowe.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], May 4th, by Rev. M.G. Wadsworth, Mr. Marvin E. Milliken to Miss Freelove A. Palmer.

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], may 9th, by Rev. E.H. Payson, Prof. John W. Thorpe, to Miss Charlotte M. Brown, daughter of C.M. Brown, Esq.

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], April 27th, Mr. John T. Hanford, to Miss Ann Eliza Kellum, all of Greene.

Married:  May 1st, by Rev. E. Holroyd, Mr. George H. Orr, of Addison, Steuben Co. [NY], to Miss Ellen S. Eddy, of Smithville [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], on Friday, May 12th, 1865, Mrs. Ruby Randall, widow of Perez Randall, deceased, aged 69 years.

Deid:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 11th, John T. [Holmes], son of the late John T. Holmes, aged 16 years and 10 months.

Died:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], May 9th, Mr. John Skinner, aged 74 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], April 29th, Mr. Andrew Miller, aged 83 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], May 5th, Martha A. [Short], wife of N.H. Short, aged 32 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], May 4th, Miss Sarah R. Wheeler, aged 17 years.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], May 7th, Mr. John W. Bolles, aged 29 years.

Died:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], May 8th, by drowning in a tub of water, Minnie [Conley], daughter of James Conley, aged 3 y'rs.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], May 2d, Fredie L. Mathewson, aged 5 years, 11 months and 11 days.

Died:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY], April 14th, Mr. Joseph L. Ferris, aged 41 years and 7 months.

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], May 11th, Genevieve [Williams], daughter of the late George M. Williams, aged 16 years.

Died:  In Mt. Upton [Chenango Co., NY], March 4th, Mr. Darius Hyer, aged 55 years.  A man of few words, of strong faith and unswerving fidelity; an honored citizen, a pillar of the church, and abiding friend of his pastor, and an affectionate husband and father.

Died:  In New York, while on his way home from the army, Mr. Daniel Watts of Wellsboro Pa., formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY].

Incident of Mr. Lincoln's Last Days

Chenango Union, May 3, 1865

At the last Cabinet meeting which Mr. Lincoln attended on Friday, at which Lieut. Gen. Grant was present, he turned to the General and asked him if he had heard from General Sherman.  General Grant replied that he had not, but was hourly in expectation of receiving dispatches form him, announcing the surrender of Johnston.

"Well," said the President, "you will hear very soon, now, and the news will be important."

"Why do you think so?" said the General.

"Because, " said Mr. Lincoln, "I had a dream last night, and ever since the war began I have invariably had the same dream before any important military event has occurred."  He then instanced Bull Run, Antietam, Gettysburg, &c., and said that before each of those events he had had the same dream, and, turning to secretary Welles, said:  " It is in your line too, Mr. Welles. The dream is that I saw a ship sailing very rapidly, and I am sure that it portends some important national event."

Friday, September 3, 2021

Vital Records, Oxford, NY, Deember 1864

 Oxford Times, December 7, 1864

Died:  In Jarvis Hospital, Baltimore, on the 20th ult. of wounds received in battle on the 19th Oct. at Cedar Creek, Va., Wilbur Youngs of Co. A, 114th Reg. aged 26 years, late of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In U.S. Hospital at Nashville, Tenn. of disease of the heart, Mr. Oscar F. Bradley, aged 33 years, a member of Co. C, 107th Reg. N.Y.S.V. formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Oxford Times, December 14, 1864

Died:  In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], of consumption, on the 25th Nov. Mrs. Sophia Kinney, wife of Samuel W. Kinney and daughter of Dea. John Symonds, aged 44 years.  Mrs. K. leaves a husband and four interesting children to mourn the loss of a devoted companion and a fond, indulgent and watchful mother.  Her warm friendship and genial and Christian character, won the love of friends and neighbors, and the highest esteem of all who knew her.  During her protracted and painful illness, she at no time forged to exemplify the support that religion gives to the pain stricken Christian, but al all times, calmly resigned to the will of Him "who doeth all things well," until the feeble link of life that binds to earth was about to break, she seemed to say of her Saviour "How sweet His bidding, come to me."

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 26th of Nov. of diptheria, George H. [Hallett], son of Devillo and Maria Hallett, aged 2 years.  George has gone to Heaven above, / Death plucked him from our care, / He now rests in Jesus' love, / And waits to welcome us there.

Died:  At Winchester, Va., of wounds received at the battle of Cedar Creek, Rial Thompson, aged 26 years, a member of the 114th Rev. and son of Rial and Olive Thompson of Preston [Chenango Co., NY]  He died with a blessed hope of entering into that rest which remains for those that love God.  Our loss is his gain.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst. Jane C.D. [Newton], wife of Isaac S. Newton, Esq.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 5th inst. Mr. Dewitt C. Northrup, aged 24 years.

Died:  Near Petersburg, Va., on the 2d inst. Benjamin Haxton, of the 10th N.Y. Cavalry, aged 29 years.  While on picket duty he was sent to headquarters with the renewing report, and while passing through a piece of woods was met by a party of Guerrillas and shot.  He lived but a short time.

Died:  In this village [Chenango Co., NY], on the 8th inst. Mr. William L. Tuttle, aged 62 years.  William L. Tuttle of this village, while engaged about his business at the Hoe Factory on Thursday last, was struck with palsy of which he died before evening of that day.  Mr. Tuttle was an industrious and exemplary citizen and leaves a family to which his loss seems almost irreparable.  His funeral will be attended from St. Paul's Church this (Tuesday) afternoon at 3 o'clock.

Died:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on Tuesday Morning, Dec. 6th, William Van Wagenen, Esq., in the 63d year of his age.

In the death of William VanWagenen, which occurred on the 6th inst., our community have again lost a most worthy and valuable citizen.  Col. VanWagenen was the last survivor of five sons of the late Gerrit H VanWagenen, and from boyhood had been a resident of this village.  Just and upright in all his dealings, with a heart and a hand that responded freely to generous and benevolent impulses, kind and liberal in all the relations of a neighbor and a citizen, cheerful and frank in his intercourse with his fellows, and earnestly enlisted in the educational and religious welfare of the community, his death has left a void which will be severely felt in the village where he lived, and in whose interests he was so intimately identified.  At the time of his death, Col. VanWagenen was a Trustee of the Oxford Academy, to whose interests he gave liberally of his time, care and money.  Although never actively engaged in politics, nor an aspirant for political preferment, and unobtrusive in the expression of his opinions, as he was unostentatious in the exercise of his charities, the deceased was unqualified in his condemnation of the rebellion which threatens the life of the Republic, and a firm and consistent supporter of all measures for its suppression, thus honoring the memory of his father, a patriot of the War of the Revolution.  Instinctively pure in his intentions, and just and honest in his business relations, Col. VanWagenen despised dishonesty and duplicity in every form.  His disease, although chronic, did not until quite recently keep him at home, and he met his friends and neighbors with his accustomed cheerfulness, and showed a kindly interest n the distress of others, while patiently and silently bearing his own.  A large family circle, to whom he was endeared by great excellence of character, mourn his loss, and the community lament the death of an upright and liberal citizen.

Oxford Times, December 21, 1864

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 11th inst. by Rev. L.E. Spafford, Mr. N.D. Root to Miss R.E. Ingraham all of Oxford.

Married:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 7th inst. by Rev. A. Parker, Mr. Lorenzo Hayes to Miss Lucy Beadly, all of Greene.

Died:  At Baton Rouge Hospital, La., Nov. 16th, after a long and painful illness, Mr. Nehemiah Wheeler, Jr., of Co. A 11th? N.Y. Cavalry, aged 30 years, 5 months and 16 days, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst. Betsey [Hubbell], aged 65 years.

Died:  In Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 9th inst., Chas. Elmer [Barber], son of Charles Barber, aged 5-1/2 years.

Died:  At North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th inst. Mr. James Benedict, aged 84 years.

Died:  In Buffalo [Erie Co., NY], of typhoid fever, on the 8th of Nov. Jessie Percival [Clarke], youngest daughter of Rev. Ethan Ray and Mary E. Clarke, aged 15 years.

Oxford Times, December 28, 1864

Married:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 22d inst. by Rev. J.C. Ransom, Mr. James H. Crosby of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY] to Mrs. Delia E. Rogers, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In this town [Oxford, Chenango Co., NY], on the 21st inst. by Rev. E.H Payson, Mr. Charles L. Turner of Preston [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Julia Alice Bennett, youngest daughter of James C. Bennett, Esq. of Oxford.

Married:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], on the 18th, by Rev. W.G. Queal, Mr. Ray Isbell, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Mary A. Bradley of Morris [Otsego Co., NY].

Married:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], on the 4th inst. by Rev. J.P. Turnbull, Mr. Addison King, of Sandford [Broome co., NY] to Miss Sylva Jane Andrews of Coventry.

Died:  Near Brushell, McDonough Co., Nov. 15, Mary C. [Green], wife of Wm. Henry Green.

Died:  In Preston [Chenango Co., NY], on the 23d inst., Miss Alida M. Rogers, aged 18 years.

Died:  In Sidney [Delaware co., NY], on 30th ult. Mr. Abram Mills?, an early settler of the town of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 87 years.

Thursday, September 2, 2021

Vital Records, Norwich, NY, April 1865

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 19, 1865

Married:  In Columbus [Chenango Co., NY], April 3d, 1865, by Hiram Gritman, Esq., Mr. John Lowe, Jr., of New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Emma Spicer of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  On board steamer Adriatic enroute from Morganzia to New Orleans, Feb. 25th, by Rev. Samuel Gardner, Capt. H.M. Ceydenwisp, 73d U.S.C.I. to Miss Sarah W. Hickox, of Bainbridge, N.Y. [Chenango Co.].

Died:  In Savannah, Ga., March 25th, Henry M. Hyde, Esq., of New York city, formerly of this village, in the 42d year of his age.

Died:  In Guilford [Chenango Co., NY], April 3d, 1865, Mr. Zebedee Yale, aged 73 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], April 7th, Mr. Noah Judd, aged 82 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], March 31st, Betsey [Dent], wife of Joseph Dent, aged 68 years, 11 months and 3 days.

Died:  At the Naval School Hospital, Annapolis, Md., March 23d, Mr. Joseph Down, of Co. E, 5th N.Y. Heavy Artillery, aged 25 years, son of Timothy Dowd, of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY], April 3d, Mr. Nelson Ireland, aged 48 years.

Died:  In Buffalo [Erie Co., NY], March 28th, Mr. Ansel H. Norton, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], March 5th, of diptheria, Theron [Smith], son of Alpheus and Ruth M. Smith, aged 1 year, 6 months.

The sweetest flowers must fade, / The brightest eyes grow dim; / That on which the heart is fondest laid, / Is soonest called to Him.

Thou art gone, our precious one! / Yes, darling Theron left our side, / To join his angel brothers and sister, / Among God's glorified.

They dwell with God forever and forever, / In gardens where celestial roses bloom. / Parents' hearts be strong!  Not lost your missing ones / Not lost, but gone before.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, April 26, 1865

Married:  DICKINSON - SMITH:  At North Pitcher [Chenango Co., NY], on the 12th inst., by Rev. E.N. Ruddock, Mr. William Dickinson and Miss Evelyn Smith, all of Pitcher.

Married:  WATROES - PARKER:  In Coventry [Chenango Co., NY], April 11, by Rev. Geo. P. Turnbel, Mr. S.B. Watroes, of Port Crane [Broome Co., NY] and Miss Eunice C. Parker, of Coventry.

Married:  KINNEY - LYON:  In McLean, N.Y. [Tompkins Co., NY] on the 2nd inst. by Rev. S. Crane, A.B. Kinney, M.D. of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] and  Miss Julia A. Lyon of Cortland [Cortland Co., NY].

Died:  ST. AMAND:  At Newbern, N.C., 3d of Jan. last of typhoid fever, Augustus St. Amand Jr., of Battery I, 3d N.Y.S.V. Light Artillery.  The deceased formerly resided in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], and will be remembered by many of our citizens as a youth of excellent moral character and correct habits.  He found the Saviour as he himself trusted, while here, and united with the Congregational Church in this place when he was 17 years of age.

Died:  ROGERS:  In Smyrna [Chenango Co., NY] March 27, Mrs. Rhoda Rogers, aged 84 years and 3 months. She died in the full assurance that it would be well with her in the Spirit world.

Died:  WOOD:  In Lansing, Mich. April 9, Helen E. [Wood], only daughter of Abner and Cornelia A. Wood, aged 13 years, 9 months and 15 days, formerly of this place [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY]. The deceased was one of the brightest of Lansing's fair ones, foremost in everything among her associates, intelligent, accomplished, an idol in the family, and beloved by all who knew her.  Her early demise is felt throughout the entire community.  She was ill about two weeks.  May God in his infinite wisdom and mercy comfort the afflicted ones.

Died:  WOOD:  In Sacramento, Cal. 20th ult. Mary T. Wood, aged 31 years, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co., NY].

Died:  THOMAS:  In Mt. Morris, Livingston Co. [NY], 9th inst. Prof. J.A. Thomas, formerly of Greene [Chenango Co., NY], aged 38 years.

Happenings of the Times

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 19, 1865

Death of the President

On receiving intelligence Saturday morning of the accumulated horrors that transpired at Washington on Friday night last, nearly all the places of business, all the public buildings, and many of the private dwellings in this village, were immediately draped in mourning; the bells were tolled at intervals throughout the day, and everywhere was evinced for the dead President the most profound respect, the deepest sorrow.  our citizens, or at least many of them, gathered in groups during day and discussed the terrible tragedy, or waited at the telegraph office for further news.  The event was regarded by all as a great public calamity, not less than the gross, horrible, sickening atrocity that it is, whether viewed apart from or in connection with the deep, far-reaching consequences that must inevitably follow from the act.  All felt that the nation was stricken, scourged, humiliated by the shocking crime.  All felt that we had lost a chief magistrate whose policy, if not acceptable in some respects, was at least understood, and promised in some way the ultimate restoration of the Union and the return of peace.  What is before us now none were bold enough to undertake to tell!

At the Churches on Sunday appropriate allusions were made to the sad event.  At the Episcopal Church, the Rector, Rev. E.Z. Lewis, delivered a most able, eloquent and touching extemporaneous address, coupling the death of the President with that of the beloved Bishop of the diocese, for whom the chancel had already been draped with emblems of mourning, and showing what these providences of God required of the Church and the nation.

At the Baptist Church, in the evening, short addresses were delivered by Rev. W.H. Olin and Rev. L.C. Queal, and by E.R. Prindle, Lewis Kingsley and Isaac Newton, Esqrs.  Some of these we are sorry to say, if our information is correct, were little better than partisan harangues, unsuited to the occasion and the place, the object being to turn the grief of the community into political channels for the benefit of the Republican party.  We have, however no heart for comment.  Such errors of taste and propriety can safely be left to the good sense and judgment of the community for correction.

The Assassin of the President

A gentleman familiar with the history of the Booth family has handed us the following in regard to the supposed assassin of the President:

Junius Wilkes Booth, the reputed assassin of the late President Lincoln, is the youngest son of Junius Brutus Booth, the celebrated tragedien.  The father was a native of Great Britain, and was by some believed to be the best actor of his day.  He was at time eccentric, if not insane.  Once, in the performance of a tragedy in the city of Mobile, he stabbed a brother actor, after which others of his profession refused to appear on the stage with him. The man Junius Wilkes Booth is a young brother of Edwin Booth and Junius Brutus Booth, both celebrated in the theatrical world, more especially Edwin Booth.  Junius Brutus Booth, the father, died somewhere on the Mississippi river about ten years ago, soon after his return from California, whither he had been to visit his sons, Junius Brutus and Edwin, who commended their theatrical career in the city of San Francisco, where they resided for ten or twelve years. The Booth charged with the assassination of the late president was never in California.  It is stated that he is a resident of Baltimore or Washington. 

Wednesday, September 1, 2021

Vital Records, Norwich, NY, April 1865

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 5, 1865

Married:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], March 22d, 1865, by Rev. S. Scoville, Mr. William H. Stewart to Miss Helen M. Huntley, both of Plymouth [Chenango Co., NY].

Married:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], March 19th, by Rev. W.G. Queal, Mr. George Bently, of Guilford [Chenango Co., NY] to Miss Maryette Miller of Afton.

Married:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], march 16th, by Rev. E. Curtis, Mr. Andrew Lowe, to Miss Huldah E. Balcom.

Died:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], April 2d, 1865, Mrs. Mary L. Wicks, wife of Milton Wicks, and daughter of Joseph Skinner, aged 22 years.

Died:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co., NY], March 25th, Mr. Francis E. Root, aged 30 years and 10 months.

Died:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co., NY], March 19th, Mr. Almon M. Franklin, aged 21 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], March 23th, Mr. Whiting Edgerton aged 80 years.

Died:  At Lone Rock, Wis., March 17th, Lavina Jennette [Craig], wife of William Craig, and daughter of Monmouth and Lydia Purdy, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY] aged 31 yrs.

Died:  In Salisbury Rebel Prison, Jan. 17th, Mr. Frederick Per Lee, son of Cuyler Per Lee Esq., of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], aged 21 years, of the 5th Heavy Artillery.

Died:  At the Army Square Hospital, Dec. 14th, of chronic diarrhea, Mr. Clark H. Woods, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], a member of Co. K, 10th N.Y. Cavalry.

Died:  In Salisbury Prison, N.C., Feb. 8th, Mr. Charles E. Curtis of Co. B, 90th N.Y.V., late of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], aged about 34 years.

Died:  At South Hadley, Mass., March 19th, 1865, Miss Catharine Hopkins, Principal of the Mt. Holyoke Female Seminary and sister of Charles Hopkins of this place [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], aged 30 years.

Died:  In Sherburne, Feb. 8th, Nettie P. [Rogers], wife of Charles E. Rogers, aged 21 years.  For months previous to her death her bodily sufferings were intense and severe, but she bore all with Christian patience. She leaves an affectionate husband and a large circle of friends who deeply mourn their loss. But they do not mourn without hope for their loss, we trust, is her infinite gain.

Died:  At White Store [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], March 15th, Grace [Brown], aged 4 years, only daughter of Louis and Harriet Brown, of Corning, N.Y. [Steuben Co.]

The icy hand of death / Was laid on cheek and brown. / And Grace, the cherished idol, lay / Beneath his shadow now. / "Oh Gracie, darling, leave me not!" / The anguished mother sighed; / "Hush mama! mama, please be still!" / The little sufferer cried.

"Dear brother Gracie's going home; / Be good, my darling one. / And give this kiss to dear papa, / Whenever he comes home." / "Now I will go to sleep, and soft / The blue eyes closed, the breath / Fluttered more faintly, then was still; / Sweet Gracie slept in death.

Blest sleep! to open those blue eyes / Where death can never come / To gaze with wonder and surprise / Upon her Heavenly home, / And looking back to the sad world, / To her darkened earthly home, / Is she not calling, brother dear, / Papa, mama, come home?

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 21st, Mr. Myron Robbins, aged 55 years.  He lived respected and died regretted by all who knew him.  He lived in peace with his family, in peace with his neighbors, and in peace with his God for he was an exemplary Christian. This is the last tribute of respect than can be paid to him.  

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, April 12, 1865

Married:  At the Rectory of Emmanuel Church, Norwich [Chenango Co.], on Tuesday April 4th, 1865, by Rev. E.Z. Lewis, Mr. Charles Henry Graves, of Norwich, to Miss Laura Lavinia Brown of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY].

Married:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 29th, by Rev. L.E. Spafford, Mr. James A. Hopkins to Miss Mary Jane Walker, all of Oxford.

Married:  In McLean, N.Y., April 2d, by Rev. S. Crane, A.B. Kinney, M.D., of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], to Miss Julia A. Lyon, of Cortland [Cortland Co., NY].

Died:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], April 10th, 1865, Eliza A. [Williams], wife of George W. Williams, of Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], aged 24 years.

Died:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], April 6th, Mrs. Gertrude Titus, aged 68 years.

Died:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], March 31t, Thannie [Waters], only child of D.W. and Anna Waters, aged 1 year, 11 months.

Died:  In Afton [Chenango Co., NY], April 7th, Mr. Thomas M. Seward, formerly of North Norwich [Chenango Co., NY], aged 49 years.

Died:  In Oxford [Chenango Co., NY], March 21st, Sally M. [Bunnell], aged 29 years.

Died:  In Greene [Chenango Co., NY], on the 6th ult. Mr. Stephen A. Race, aged 69 years.

Died:  At the Naval School Hospital, Annapolis, Md., on the 22d ult. George Taft of Co B, 114th N.Y.S.V., aged 18 years, 4 months and 21 days, son of Stephen Taft of Greene.

Died:  In Charles City, Iowa, Feb. 10th, Charles Gorton [Holcomb], son of George and Sarah Holcomb, aged 6 weeks.  

Died:  At Falls Church, Va., Feb. 20th, Mr. Wells Hatch, formerly of Sherburne [Chenango Co., NY], aged 70 years.

Died:  In Prison Hospital, at Salisbury, N.C., Feb. 8th, Mr. Charles E. Curtis, of McDonough [Chenango Co., NY], a member of the 90th Reg. N.Y.S.V., aged 31 years.  Feeling it his solemn duty to respond in person to his country's call for help, in her hour of sternest trial, with a brave heart and holy purpose he went forth, in September 1864 to join the noble Sheridan But not long did he follow the promptings of his patriotic heart.  Meeting the enemy at the battle of Cedar Creek, October 19th, he fell captive into their hands.  He was then taken to "Libby" for a few days, then removed to Salisbury, where, after more than three months of utmost sufferings, such as rebel ingenuity only can devise, kindly death came and set the prisoner free.  During this time, his loved wife and children in their pleasant home were constantly before his mind, from whom he had heard nothing since he left, and whom he desired so much to see.  His Bible was his constant and well tried friend, his solace and comforter, whose teachings he loved, and precepts obeyed.  through his illness, his sufferings were made much more endurable by the self sacrificing exertions of his brother-in-law, Jacob Gibson, who gave him every possible care, even sacrificing his own liberty for over three long months, that he might cheer by his presence, and soften his dying pillow. To him the friends of the deceased will ever owe a debt of gratitude, and they sincerely pray that the angel that seems waiting to bear him over the river of death, may stay its wayward fight, and leave the brave soldier a little longer with his friends.

Died:  At Gayaso Hospital, Memphis, Tenn. March 24th, of wounds received in battle, Mr. Delos W. Gazley, of the 11th N.Y. Cavalry, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY], aged 24 years.

Mr. Gazley was one among the first to volunteer for the War, and enlisted in the 17th N.Y.V., serving faithfully for the full term, with honorable mention for bravery at the battle of Chancellorsville, and was honorably discharged.  Again re-enlisting in the 11th N.Y. Cavalry, or Scott's 900, serving till the time of his death which was occasioned by a wound received in a recent skirmish, near Memphis, Tenn.  Mr G. was one of the first employees in this office, and left pleasant memories with his associates and companions, who strongly sympathize with his relatives in their sore bereavement.  He leaves a wife, but no children.  Oxford Democrat

Mr. Gazley served a part of his time as an apprentice in this office, and his death we believe, makes the fifth one of our former employees who have ended their career in the war.  He was a brave and impulsive soldier, and discharged every duty with fidelity and zeal. We sincerely deplore his loss, as do all who knew him.