Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, June (concluded) & July 1874

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, June 24, 1874

Deaths

WILLCOX:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], on 15th, Caroline [Willcox] widow of Job Willcox and daughter of Joseph Alcott, aged 46 years.

ALDRICH:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], May 31st, Mr. Chauncy Aldrich, aged 75 years.

TODD:  In North Haven, Conn. on 13th, Mrs. Lawrence P. Todd aged 48 years.

A large concourse of mourning friends assembled at the Congregational Church in North Haven on Sabbath afternoon, to pay the last tribute of respect to Mrs. Todd.  She was for many years the leading soprano singer of the church, and her loss will be deeply felt, not only by the remaining members of the choir and her immediate family friends, but by the community at large.  The funeral services, conducted by the pastor, Rev. Wm T. Reynolds, were very solemn and impressive.  The organ and railing in front of the choir gallery were draped i black, while the "vacant chair," also draped, was a sad reminder of our loss.  Choice flowers were tastefully arranged around the coffin, while each member of the choir carried a bouquet, which at the close of the services at the cemetery were strewn by them upon her grave. The church was crowded, the deceased being widely known, and many were present from the adjoining towns.  Mrs. Todd was the life of our social gatherings, and an efficient worker in any enterprise in which she engaged, and we can hardly hope to have her place filled.  May we trust that "Our loss is her gain."  New Haven Courier.

Mrs. Sally M. Root of Oxford, Chenango Co. [NY] and mother-in-law of Hiram King of this place [Whitney Point, Broome Co. NY], died at his house Thursday morning. June 11th, aged 71 years.  She had resided here most of the time for the year past.  Her disease was cancer, Reporter, Whitney's Point.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 25, 1974

Death

In Moodus, Middlesex Co., Conn., May 17, of consumption of the liver, Mr. Hardey L. Hazen, aged 77 years, formerly a boyish resident of Coventry, Chenango Co. N.Y.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, June 27, 1874

Marriages

WILSON - BABCOCK:  In Emmanuel Church, Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], June 24th, 1874, by Rev. Mr. Loveridge, Mr. William Wilson of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Kate Babcock of Norwich.

Emmanuel Church, in this village, was well filled on Wednesday afternoon of last week, by the many friends of Miss Kate M. Babcock, it being the occasion of her marriage to Mr. William O. Wilson, of New York.  The church was beautifully decorated with flowers, the offerings of those with whom she had been intimately associated from childhood, who improved this opportunity to express in this pleasing manner their appreciation of her worth.  Many valuable presents were received by the bride, and one which she highly prized was a volume of Moore's Poems, elegantly bound, which was presented by her Sunday School class, consisting of eleven little misses.  Union [Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, July 4, 1874

SMITH - HARTWELL:  At the home of the bride at Sherburne Four Corners [Chenango Co. NY], on Wednesday June 24, 1874, by the Rev. B.B. Gibbs, assisted by Rev. C.C. Johnson, Mr. Elbert F. Smith of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Marie Louise [Hartwell] eldest daughter of Chas. Hartwell, Esq.

We congratulate E.F.S. on his new situation in life.  We wish the happy couple the courtesies of the reportorial fraternity and hope his care and duties will not be so many that we shall not hear from him occasionally over in Smyrna, which we understand is to be his future home.  Mr. S. and bride go on their bridal tour to Ohio where they are to visit friends.

A Wedding:  Smyrna has its weddings as well as other places.  In one which occurred Wednesday, the 24th, a former Sherburneite I am happy to say, played a principal part.  I refer to the marriage of Elbert F. Smith and Miss Marie Louise Hartwell.  I congratulate Mr. S. on the step he has taken, and the bride upon the choice she has made.  I have known the gentleman intimately for several years, and surely Chenango County does not possess a more worthy young man.  He has been connected with Dixon Bros. of Smyrna for a long period, serving there with the best of satisfaction to his employers and most acceptably to the people.  The lady he marries is the daughter of Mr. Chas. Hartwell, of Sherburne Four Corners, and she is spoken of by those who know her in terms of highest appreciation. The married couple left the same evening for a western trip, confined mostly to visiting friends in Ohio.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, June 27, 1874

Marriage

NORTON - LOOMIS:  In West Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], on the 17th inst. by Rev. T.P. Halsted, Mr. Charles G. Norton to Miss Ellen Loomis, both of West Bainbridge.

Death

DENISON:  On the morning of the 22d inst. at the residence of Riley Bush, Nineveh [Broome Co. NY], George Willie Dennison, aged 19 years and 6 months.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, July 1, 1874

Deaths

HIGLEY:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], june 19th, Sarah F. Higley, aged 73 years.

FOOTE:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], June 21st, Jerusha Merrick [Foote], wife of Jesse Foote, Esq., aged 55 years.

BARR:  In North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], June 27th, Mr. Alanson W. Barr aged 68 years.

RACE:  In South Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], June 23d, Harriet M. [Race] wife of Derrick Race, aged 52 years.  She has fallen asleep in Jesus.

Gone from earth! the loved, the loving, / Gone from those she loved full well. / If we miss her gentle presence / It was hard to say farewell! / Hard to close those eyes so lustrous, / And to lay her pale hands down / But this thought - she is an angel / And has won a starry crown. / Came amid the saddest moments / Whispered of a land of rest / Where she lives in fadeless beauty / In her Saviour's presence blest.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, July 4, 1874

Marriages

SIDDALL - MATTESON:  On the 25 ult., at the residence of Geo. W. Merrell, East Bridgewater, Mass., by Rev. Benjamin J. Gifford, Charles W. Siddall, of East Bridgewater, Mass. and Elizabeth Matteson, daughter of Hon. T.H. Matteson of Sherburne, N.Y. [Chenango Co.]

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, July 4, 1874

Marriages

HUNT - HILL:  In Masonville [Delaware Co. NY], on the 25th ult. by Rev. Mr. Manderville, Mr. Charles Hunt of Osborn Hollow, N.Y. [Broome Co.] to Miss Libbie Hill of Masonville, N.Y.

ROBINSON - HARRIS:  At the Hastings House in this village [Bainbridge Chenango Co. NY], July 1st, 1874, by Rev. A.B. Richardson, Mrs. D.J. Robinson to Miss D.A. Harris, both of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

PECKHAM:  In Guilford Centre [Chenango Co. NY], on the 1st inst., of consumption, John H. Peckham, aged 24 years.

Obituary:  A cloud of sadness was thrown over the people of Afton [Chenango Co. NY], on Monday of this week by the drowning of Grant [Grover], youngest son of Deacon Wm. B. Grover.  Grant was a noble and promising boy, aged nine years. While at school, he, in company with one or two other boys of his age, went to the river at the mouth of the cove on Corbin's flat to bathe.  Grant, by some mistake, fell in where the water was several feet deep, and before help could be summoned, he was past recovery.  His funeral was attended on Wednesday, and the services were conducted by Rev. J. Jones, pastor of the Baptist Church, assisted by Revs. T.P. Halsted and E.T. Jacobs and were very solemn and impressive. Grant will be missed in the family where he was much loved, as well as in the school and Sabbath School, where he was an attentive and faithful pupil. We would sympathize with the family in this great bereavement.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, June 1874 (continued)

Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 25, 1874

Marriages

LAMONT - KINNEY:  In McGrawville [Allegany Co. NY], June 17th, by Rev. George Bayless, Mr. Daniel S. Lamont, editor of the Cortland County Democrat to Miss Ettie J. Kinney of the former place.

EDWARDS - BOYD:  In Cincinnatus [Chenango Co. NY], June 10th, by Rev. Mr. Henry, Mr. Mortimer Edwards of Lisle [Broome Co. NY] to Miss Ettie J. Kinney of the former place.

ABBEY - GOODRICH:  In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], June 15th, by Rev. M. Scofield, Mr. S. LeGrand Abbey, of Rondout [Ulster Co. NY] to Miss Ida h. Goodrich, daughter of the late Rev. J.T Goodrich, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

FOOTE:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], June 21st, of congestion of the brain, Jerusha Merrick, wife of Isaac Foote, Esq., aged 65 years.

WARNER:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], June 19th, Mr. Asel Warner, aged 64 years, formerly of Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY].

LAW:  Drowned in Preston [Chenango Co. NY], June 20th, Bertha R. [Law], daughter of L.S. and Esther Law, aged 1 year and 11 months.

On Saturday evening between seven and eight o'clock, a little girl of Leander S. Law, aged one year and eleven months, was found by its mother in the watering trough standing at the door of the house and within a few feet of where the mother was ironing.  The water was twelve inches deep, and though one arm and one limb were perfectly dry the child was dead past resuscitation.  The little girl had not been missed more than five or ten minutes, indeed it had not been missed at all, for each parent supposed it was with the other until the father came in from the barn. When looked for it was found as above stated.  Dr. Crumb was at once called but no help would avail to restore to life. The child is spoken of as an extremely bright and interesting child and the parents have the sympathy of all who know them in this sad bereavement.  This is the third only child they have lost and thus the sadness of the event is enhanced.  [Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 25, 1874]

ROOT:  At the residence of her son-in-law, Hiram King, at Whitney's Point [Broome Co. NY], June 11th, Mrs. Sally M. Root, of Oxford, aged 71 years.

MACDONALD:  In Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY] June 14th, Fannie J. [MacDonald] daughter of Jay and L.A. MacDonald, and niece of Mrs. Wm. C. Main, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], aged 16 years and 8 months.

CHAMBERLIN:  In Hudson [Columbia Co. NY], June 18th, Mr. nathan Chamberlin, in the 86th year of his age, formerly County Clerk of Chenango County.

FARNHAM:  In Wellsville, N.Y. May 12th, Mrs. Sally Farnham aged 91 years 2 months and 9 days, formerly of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY]

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 25, 1874

Marriage

SMITH - HARTWELL:  At the home of the bride on Wednesday, June 24th, 1874, by the Rev. B.B. Gibbs of Spencer, N.Y., Mr. E.F. Smith of Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY] to Marie Louise [Hartwell] eldest daughter of Charles Hartwell, Esq., of Sherburne Four Corners. [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

LYON:  At Angelica, on the 8th of April, of paralysis, Reuben Lyon, aged 72 years, formerly of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].

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MORSE:  In Eaton, N.Y. [Madison Co. NY], June 20th, in the 38th year of his age, Mr. Henry Bagg Morse formerly a Colonel of the 114th Regt. N.Y.S.V., and late a Circuit Judge of Arkansas.

The above announcement will be read with pain by his many friends and acquaintances in this and adjoining counties as well as by those with whom he served in the gallant 114th Regiment.

Col. Morse was the son of Ellis Morse and born at Eaton [Madison Co. NY] July 2, 1836.  Upon attaining the age of manhood, he was engaged for some years with his father and brother in distilling and farming. and later in charge of grist mills and other manufacturing at Eaton.  His education was liberal, one that fitted him for almost any position in life, but when the trump of war sounded, he was prompt in offering his services to the government and was authorized by Gov. Morgan to raise a company for the Chenango And Madison regiment, and on the 13th of August 1863 he reported at headquarters in this village with a company of over 180 men.  He at once received his commission as Captain and his company was given the letter "D."  On the eighth of September he was appointed and mustered in as Major of the regiment, and on the promotion of Col. PerLee was advanced to the grade of Lt. Colonel with rank from Aug. 26, 1863.  He was a valiant soldier always foremost in the fray.  He was wounded in the ankle while leading the assaulting party at Port Hudson, and at Sabine Cross Roads received a gunshot wound in the arm, which disabled him for several months.  Well did he wield the sword that was presented to him by his friends and neighbors before he left home, and his sash and belt were always worn with honor to himself, as well as those that sent him forth.

Col. Morse also showed an aptitude for other duties beside those of the field and he was for a long time on the Board of Prison Inspectors at New Orleans, and for some time was acting quartermaster of the 19th Army corps.  The Colonel was present at the important and sanguinary battles of Bisland, Port Hudson, Sabine Cross Roads and Cedar Creek.  At the latter his brother Alfred A. Morse, of the same regiment was fatally wounded.

When the regiment was discharged after sufficient recreation, he entered the Law office of Pratt & Mitchell at Syracuse where he thoroughly prepared himself for the practice of the law, which he entered upon in the State of Arkansas.  By close attention to his business and uprightness of character he became one of the Circuit judges of Arkansas, a position which he held with honor.

Of his sickness and death we know nothing beyond the bare announcement.  He was a favorite in the regiment not only with the officers but with the men.  His work is ended and his reward awaits him.  One by one the heroes pass away.  His comrades in arms as well as all who knew him will unite with us in dropping a tear to his memory and in annually planting roses upon his grave.

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South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY]:  Mrs. Rhoda Ainsworth, wife of Daniel B. Ainsworth, died very suddenly on the 19th inst. of disease of the heart, aged sixty-nine years, and as we write her obituary notice and remember the loss we sustain in her death, occurring as it does, in our midst so soon after the fearful death of Mr. Owens, we can but feel that the proverb "that calamities do not come singly," is too true, for in the death of Mrs. Ainsworth an irreparable loss is inflicted upon a large circle of relatives, and especially upon her husband, who for fifty years has traveled with her the journey of life, but now so lonely.

Mrs. Ainsworth arose on the morning of her death about four o'clock, complaining of severe pain in the region of her heart, and difficulty in breathing.  Her distress increased so rapidly that within half an hour from the time she arose and before nay notice of her condition could be given except to the inmates of the house, she obeyed the stern summons and yielded up her life.  On the Sabbath following her death a large concourse of people, including among the relatives representatives of four generations, who had learned to love her, who so eminently had fulfilled the mission of a devoted wife and mother, gathered around her silent form to pay the last tribute of respect and solemnize in deep sympathy and sincere grief her funeral and burial services "And thus we laid her down to rest."

Chenango American, Greene, Chenango Co. NY, June 18, 1874

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Mr. David Bennett, aged 68 years and 4 months.

In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], June 14th, Cora Melius, aged 11 years and 10 months.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], June 13th, Minnie [Wheeler], aged 6 years 9 months and 9 days.

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On the circumstances of the death of Geo. C. Rice of which we spoke last week, his paper, the Muskegon Chronicle says:

"He leaves in this city a widow and two children, a son and a daughter, to mourn his loss, and a large circle of friends and acquaintances with whom he has been pleasantly associated.

His sickness was long, painful, and stubbornly refused to yield to medical skill and remedies, but through it all he was patient and uncomplaining, manifesting a Christian like spirit. From the first he was impressed with the idea that he should not recover, and with reason unclouded, in full possession of his faculties, he "set his house in order.," made provision for those he so soon was to leave, arranged for the future conduct of his business and the continuance of the paper, and bravely met the last foe.  For himself, he had no fear, no dread of death; his only regret was for the dear ones who so much depended upon him.  His widow and children have the hearty sympathy of their numerous friends in this their hour of bereavement, and we commend them to the care and tender mercy of the God who doeth all things well."

The funeral was largely attended by our citizens and the order of O.M. Fellows, of which Mr. Rice was a member, turned out in a body to perform for a brother beloved the last sad rites in accordance with the usages of their order. The services were impressive and solemn, and the same and memory of Mr. Rice will long be cherished by us and held in kindly remembrance by our citizens."

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, June 1874 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 18, 1874

Marriage

PRINCE - TEW:  In Washington, D.C., June 11th, by Rev. W.F. Watkins, Capt. Howard L. Prince, of Portland, Me. to Miss Jennie S. Tew, of Washington, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

GARTSEE:  Suddenly in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], June 12th, Eliza Ann Bowen [Gartsee], widow of Andre B. Gartsee, and mother of Mr. Erastus Martin, aged 61 years.

ALDRICH:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], May 31st, Mr. Chaunan Aldrich, aged 75 years, one of the early settlers of that town.

COVILLE:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], June 11th, Louisa [Coville], wife of Stephen H. Coville, aged 68 years.

PRESTON:  In Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY], June 8th, of apoplexy, Roena [Preston], wife of Hiram Preston, aged 68 years.

WEST:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], on the -?-, June 4th, Mr. Joseph P. West, aged about 73 years.

SANDS:  At Vallonia Springs, Broome Co. [NY], June 5th, Dr. AJ. Sands, aged 55 years.

Dr. A.J. Sands, proprietor of the Spring House, at Vallonia Springs, Broome Co., died at his residence on Friday, the 5th inst. having been stricken by paralysis on the Wednesday previous.  His remains were buried in the cemetery at Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], on the following Sunday evening.

William Orr, an old and respected resident, died at Oneida Castle [Oneida Co. NY] on Wednesday of last week.

Corydon Tyler, formerly a much-respected citizen of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], died at his residence in Madison County, on the 8th inst.  His funeral was attended in Binghamton on Wednesday.

Thomas O'Hara, an esteemed citizen of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], died on the 9th.

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HILL:  Suddenly, in Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY], June 3d, Clarissa [Hill], wife of Eligh Hill, aged 68 years.

Excitement in Lincklaen

Coroner Hand, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], was called on Friday last to hold an inquest on the body of Mrs. Clarissa Hill, at Burdick Settlement, in the town of Lincklaen. She died on Wednesday, the 3d inst, and circumstances gave rise to suspicious that there had been foul play in connection with her decease.  The body was therefore exhumed, after it had been buried a week, and the inquest held as above stated.

Deceased was the wife of Elijah Hill, and her age was 69 years; that of her husband, 74 years.  She was his third wife.  They formerly resided in Fabius, Onondaga Co. [NY], but removed to Lincklaen something like a year ago.  Marcellus Baker, now about twenty years of age, married a daughter of Mr. Hill, and stepdaughter of deceased, now aged sixteen, about that time.  They reside with Baker's parents, and Mr. and Mrs. Hill kept house by themselves near them.  There had been unfriendly feeling between the families, and the intercourse between them was not frequent.

On Monday night, the 1st inst., deceased complained of not feeling well, and did not rest much during the night.  During the following day she was about the house but indisposed.  Her stepdaughter, Mrs. Baker, helped her during that day, at the old lady's request, as she states.  Marcellus Baker, her husband, carried some buttermilk there that morning, from his residence.  It was churned on Monday evening and was poured from the churn by his wife.  He swears that Mrs. Hill had on the Sunday previous asked for some.  This buttermilk was used by Mrs. Baker, in making some biscuit for her father and mother, on Tuesday evening. At an early hour the old couple retired, and the deceased rested well until about three o'clock on Wednesday morning, when she awoke, and asked her husband to get up and put on the teakettle, and prepare for breakfast, as she felt hungry.  She ate for her breakfast some of the biscuits which had been made by her stepdaughter on the previous evening, preparing the tea herself.  Her husband did not partake of the biscuits, but made his breakfast on bread and milk.  Soon after the meal was finished, deceased complained of a pain in her bowels, which increased until between eleven and twelve o'clock in the forenoon, when she died.  the remaining biscuits and buttermilk were afterwards given to the hens, no one else tasted them, with the exception of a neighbor who was present when the old lady died, and who ate a very small piece of one of the biscuits and had a pain in her stomach for some time afterwards.

Deceased had $300 in notes, which she kept in her bureau drawer.  Just before she died, these notes were taken from the drawer by Mrs. Baker, and are now in her possession.  She states that on the night previous to her death, the old lady had told her to take the notes and take care of them and see that they were not stolen; that deceased had told her that she was to have the notes after the death of herself and husband.

Some of the neighbors testified to the ill feeling between the families; to the fact that the old lady had repeatedly expressed her fears that her house would be robbed by the Baker family, without naming any particular one; to the remark made by Mrs. Baker, that they could not prove that she had killed her stepmother; also, that made by her husband, that "Aunt Clara was dead, and she was glad of it, if she was well off;"  and the unfeeling conduct of Baker, who swung his hat and bowed to several neighbors, when he came from the funeral.

Dr. Horace Halbert, of Pitcher, and Dr James Angel, of Union Valley, were present at the inquest, and made the examination.  They found no traces of poison, and came to the conclusion that death was caused by peritonitis, or inflammation of the membranes of the abdominal cavity.  The membrane covering the stomach and parts contiguous was very much inflamed, and adhesion exiting between the parts, indicating previous and older disease.

In accordance with the above facts, the jury found that deceased came to her death by natural causes from disease; and so, the matter ended.  There was much excitement in the vicinity, and a large number of people were in attendance at the examination.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 18, 1874

Marriage

FAIRCHILD - POST:  In Waterville [Oneida Co. NY], on the 10th, int. by Rev. N.R. Everts, H.D. Fairchld, Esq., of Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Allie K. Post, of Waterville.

Deaths

LORD:  In Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY], April 23d?, on pneumonia, Artie K. Lord, aged 1 year, 4 months and 3 days.  also, of the same, April 27th, Angie E. Lord, aged 1 year, 4 months and 7 days, twin daughters of D.S. and Mary K. Lord.  Suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.

BENTON:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], June 4th, Rollin Calkins Benton, only son of Jason M. and Amelia R. Benton, aged 6 months and 13 days.  Little darling, gone to rest, / Peaceful be thy slumber, / Thou art now among the blest, / Soon we'll join thy number.

BENTON:  In Earlville [Madison Co. NY], June 7th, Amelia R. [Benton], wife of Jason M. Benton, aged 24 years, 7 months and 3 days.  In all her relations, social, religious and domestic, she was ever loved and respected, was ever kind, genial and affectionate.  She was ever a pleasant companion and one of the truest of friends.  Her trust in God was ever firm and enduring to the end, and truly:

"None knew her but to love her, / None named her but to praise."

She leaves a husband and daughter who will receive the sympathy of the entire community in their double affliction and bereavement.  E.N.C.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, June 1874 (continued)

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, June 10, 1874

Deaths

HOPKINS:  in the town of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], May 26th?, Mr. Allison P. Hopkins, aged 77 years.

At a meeting of the Vestry of St. Paul's, Oxford, N.Y., the following minute was ordered to be entered on the Parish Records, and a copy sent to the family of the deceased, and to the village paper.

In the departure from this life of Mr. Allison P. Hopkins, the community in which he has lived so long, and the Church of which he was a Warden and a most devoted member, have sustained a heavy loss.  Born in Connecticut, he came into the Chenango Valley with his father's family, and has lived on the same farm for more than 50 years.  His life was quiet and simple and pure, presenting a pattern of every virtue; faithful in all its ties and duties, and diffusing around it an elevating, restraining and cheerful influence.  His faith blossomed into a character which made him beloved and venerated by all who knew him "an Israelite indeed in whom was no guile."

"Such was our friend, formed on the good old plan, / A True and brave and downright honest man; / Loathing pretense, he did with cheerful will / What others talked of while their hands were still. / His daily prayer - far better understood / In acts than words - was simply doing good. / So calm, so constant was his rectitude, / That by his loss alone we know his worth / And feel how true a man has walk'd with us on earth."

LORD:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], on the 6th, Mary Elizabeth [Lord], wife of Mr. John Lord, aged 54 years.

Our village was saddened by the announcement of the sudden death of Mrs. John Lord, of apoplexy, Saturday morning.  Though the event came to her unexpected in the midst of her domestic cares, and in apparently her usual health, yet we are assured it did not find her unprepared, as preparation had been her life work.  Those who knew her best esteemed her highest, and her bereaved friends may find comfort in the full assurance that "for her to live was Christ, but to die is gain."  The friends and acquaintances are invited to attend the funeral today (Tuesday) at 3 o'clock, at her late residence.

CLARKE:  In this village [Oxford, Chenango Co. NY], at the Rogers House, on the 5th, Mr. Isaac Clarke, aged 77 years.

Isaac Clark, better known to most of our readers as "the Judge," died at the Rogers House, Friday morning last.  He had been in failing health for some time and his death was not unexpected.  For the past 18 years he has been a resident of our village, being induced to come into the country by his relatives, who got control of his property through his dissipated habits.  With all his faults "the Judge" had many good traits about him and made many friends.  He was in his 77th year.  The funeral took place Saturday, and the remains were deposited in the vault.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 11, 1874

Marriage

On the 3d of June at the residence of the bride's father, by Rev. Thos. B. Shepherd, Frederick F. Comstock, M.D. of Smyrna N.Y. [Chenango Co.], to Miss Alice G. Brand, of Ilion, N.Y. [Herkimer Co.].

Death

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], June 6th, Mrs. Theodocia [Wedge], wife of Isaac Wedge, aged 37 years.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, June 13, 1874

Deaths

SKINNER:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY] on the 8th inst., Mr. Benjamen Skinner, aged 70 years, 7 months and 5 days.

Mr. Benjamin Skinner died at his residence in this town on Monday last.  He had been for more than forty years a citizen of Sherburne.  He was quiet and unobtrusive in his habits, gentle and kind-hearted in disposition. By industry and integrity, he had secured a competence and the esteem and good will of his neighbors and fellow citizens who will sincerely mourn his loss as that of an honest and good man.  He leaves one son, Mr. Wm. Skinner, and one daughter Miss Mary Skinner, surviving him.

COLE:  In this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], at the residence of her son-in-law Dr. M.H. Fish, on the 6th inst., Mrs. Susanna Cole, aged 50 years.  Her remains were taken to Cedarville [Herkimer Co., NY] for interment.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, June 13, 1874

Marriage

SHERWOOD - COGSWELL:  In Candor [Tioga Co. NY], on the 31st ult. by the Rev. N.S. Reynolds, Mr. Benjamin I. Sherwood and Miss E. Augusta Cogswell, both of Candor.

Deaths

EGGLESTON:  In Sidney [Delaware Co. NY], May 27th, Lyman Eggleston, aged 56 years.

In Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], May 27th, Mrs. Eunice Tyler, aged 77 years.

Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], June 10th, 1874:  Mr. Editor:  Since my last communication another of our early settlers has departed this life.  On Friday, May 31st, Mrs. Eunice Tyler died in the 77th year of her age.  She came to this town when about 18 years of age and settled upon a farm two miles southeast from the village of West Coventry, where she remained until the time of her death.  Twenty-six years ago, she was left, by the death of her husband, with a large family of children to struggle alone with a cold and selfish world, but she kept her family together, and also kept the old farm.  Mrs. Tyler was an earnest and devout follower of Christ, admired for her amiableness of character and gentle disposition.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, June 1874 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 11, 1874

Marriages

COOK - GREEN:  At Emmanuel Church, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], on Wednesday morning, June 10th, by Rev. J.D. Cook, of Morris, Mr. Jason D. Cook, formerly of Morris [Otsego Co. NY], to Miss Mahala L. Green, both of this village.

COLEMAN - HURLEY:  At St. Patrick's Church, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], June 9th, by Rev. D. O'Connell, Mr. John Coleman to Miss Mary Hurley.

DEAN -HURLEY:  In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], June 3d, by Rev. L.C. Floyd, Mr. Chauncey S. Dean, of Jacksonville, N.Y. [Tompkins Co.] to Miss Nellie Hurley, of Norwich, N.Y. [Chenango Co. NY].

COON - CROSBY:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], May 31st, by Rev. A. Lindsay, Mr. Albert Coon to Miss Gertrude Crosby.

While Charles Foster, aged 74, of North Brookfield [Madison Co. NY], was being married to Mrs. Lucretia Williams, the daughter of the groom forbid the bans on the ground of her father's insanity.  the wedding proceeded.

Deaths

COLE:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], June 7th, Mrs. Susannah K. Cole, aged 50 years.

LORD:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], suddenly, June 6th, Elizabeth [Lord] wife of John Lord, aged 54 years.

CLARKE:  At the Rogers House in Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], June 5th, Mr. Isaac Clarke, aged 77 years.

SPERRY:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY], June 6th, Emma [Sperry], wife of Henry Sperry, aged 22 years.

SCOTT:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], June 3d, Mary Ann [Scott], wife of Levi Scott, aged 72 years.

HOPKINS:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], May 26th, Mr. Alison P. Hopkins, aged 77 years.

BARD:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], May 30th, Sarah Ann [Bard] daughter of Edward and Abigail Bard, aged 2 years.

BROWN:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], Mr. Joshua Brown, aged 80 years and 8 months.

RACKETT:  In East Marion, L.I. [Suffolk Co, NY], May 27th, Caroline [Rackett] wife of Capt. A.C. Rackett, and daughter of J.D. and Jemima Rogers, of Preston [Chenango Co. NY], aged 43 years.

BOWEN:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] June 2d, 1874, Asenath [Bowen] wife of Rensselaer Bowen, in the 75th year of her age.  She had often expressed the wish that she might die in the springtime, and the prayer was granted.

Mid the flowers of the beautiful springtime / We laid our mother to rest, / And we heaped the green turf lightly, / O'er her cold and pulseless breast. / And we know in a heavenly springtime / Our mother rejoiceth now. / While the crown of the faithful Christian / Is resting upon her brow.  E.J.R.

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RICE:  In Muskegon, Mich., May 31st, Mr. Geo. C. Rice, formerly editor of the Chenango Telegraph, aged 43 years.

The announcement of the death of this gentleman, which occurred at his residence in Muskegon, Mich. on Sunday morning, the 31st ult. will be received with profound regret by many old friends and acquaintances in this County, once his home.

The last number of the Chronicle, of which he was editor and proprietor, comes to us clothed in the habiliments of mourning, and from it we learn that he had been ill for over six weeks, and his painful sickness refused to yield to medical skill and remedies.  From the first he was impressed with the idea that he should not recover, and with reason unclouded, in full possession of his faculties, he "set his house in order," made provision for those he so soon was to leave, arranged for the future conduct of his business and continuance of the paper, and bravely met the last foe.  For himself, he had no fear - no dread of death. His only regret was for the dear ones who so much depended on him.  Mr. Rice was born in Rochester, N.Y., February 18th, 1831.  In early boyhood he entered a printing office and made himself master of his trade.  In 1855 he in company with C.B. Martin (now of the Newburgh Journal) became proprietor of the Chenango Telegraph, published in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY].  In 1864, having disposed of his interest in that paper, he commenced the publication in this village of the Chenango Chronicle, Hon. E.H. Prindle being associated with him. At the expiration of two years this was merged with the Telegraph, Mr. Rice retiring.  After a brief residence upon a farm in Afton, in this County, he removed to the State of Delaware, where he had purchased some land, but not satisfied with agricultural pursuits in that locality, he moved to Muskegon and became proprietor of the Chronicle which he continued to publish until his death.

During his residence in this County, he was twice elected to the Legislature, and also held the office of County treasurer one term.  He was a vigorous writer, generous in disposition, and courteous in manner.

His widow, whom he married in Afton, with a son and daughter, survive him.  The funeral was largely attended by citizens, and the Odd Fellows, of which he was a member, turned out in a large body to perform the last rites of the Order.

__________

On Sunday the 31st ult. George C. Rice died at his residence in Muskegon, Mich., in the 41st year of his age.

Mr. Rice will be well remembered by the people of Chenango County.  In 1855 he removed to this county, and in company with C.B. Martin purchased the Chenango Telegraph office, with which he was connected until 1864.  He then started the Chenango Chronicle.  This he continued until its publication ceased in the following year.  From this village he moved to Afton, and the next year to Delaware, and afterwards, in 1869 to Muskegon, where he purchased the News and Reporter which he soon after changed to the Chronicle, of which he was Editor and publisher at the time of his death.

During his residence here he was County Treasurer, and member of the Assembly.  He was also for several years Chairman of the Republican County Committee, positions which we believe he performed the duties of satisfactory to his constituents.

Mr. Rice was the associate of the writer for four years, during which period we learned to know him well.  He had many good qualities which commended him to a large circle of friends and acquaintances.  Like others, too, he had his faults, over which however we prefer to cast the mantle of charity.

He leaves a widow and two children, who have the hearty sympathy of all in their bereavement.  [Chenango Telegraph, June 11, 1874]

______________________________

Shocking Railroad Accident

Thomas Cox and William Sullivan, laborers on the D.L. & W. Railroad, met a shocking death on Tuesday afternoon.  They, with some ten or twelve others, were at work on the track about one and a half miles north of the village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], a short distance above the residence of Willard Sage. The foreman of the gang had been notified that a special train, having on board the President, Directors and Superintendent of the road, would pass sometime in the afternoon, and the fact was talked about freely, and all were on the lookout. At the point where the men were at work, the tracks of the Midland run parallel with the D.L.&W., and but few feet apart. At this point also there is a curve in the road. The men were scattered along the track, Sullivan and Cox being some rods north of the others. About three o'clock P.M., a train was heard approaching, and the men stepped from the track, thinking that the special was coming.  It proved to be a coal train running north on the Midland, however, and they stepped back to their work.  Sullivan and Cox, it seems, watched this train as it passed northward, standing with their backs to the south.  The noise of the coal train prevented their hearing the approach of the special, which at this moment came on from the south at full speed, and without a moment's warning the unfortunate men were struck by the engine and instantly killed.  The train did not pass over the bodies, but both were horribly mangled by the concussion.  Sullivan was thrown some forty feet from the track.  His neck was broken, his head was crushed, and both legs and one arm were broken.  Cox was thrown into a ditch on the opposite side of the road and sustained similar injuries.  His neck was also broken, his side crushed, and both legs and one wrist were broken. The train was stopped as soon as possible, and the officers came back and gave directions in regard to the care of the bodies.  It appears that every effort was made to warn the unfortunate men of the approaching danger, but the cries of their companions, and the whistle of the engine were drowned by the noise of the train on the Midland track.  So far as we can learn, no blame attaches to the Company or the foreman of the gang. The accident was the result of circumstances which were beyond control.

Sullivan was some fifty years of age, and leaves a wife and eight children, most of whom are grown up.  He was an Industrious and steady man and was well liked.  He resided about a mile north of Wood's Corners, on the King Settlement Road [Chenango Co. NY].

Cox leaves a wife and three children, the youngest about ten years of age.  He resided on Pleasant Street in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], and was esteemed as an upright and industrious man.  He was about sixty years of age.

Coroner Hand was notified and took the bodies in charge and is engaged in holding an inquest as we go to press.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, June 1874

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, June 4, 1874

Marriages

BISHOP - BABCOCK:  At the home of the bride, in Brookfield [Madison Co. NY], May 28th?  by Rev. W.H. -?-, Mr. Lyman H. Bishop of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Minnie Babcock.

BLANCHARD - STORRS:  At the parsonage in DeRuyter [Madison Co. NY], May 26th, by the bride's father, Rev. J. Storrs, Mr. -?- Blanchard to Miss H. Adell Storrs, all of Deruyter.

Deaths

FERGUSON:  At Smithville Flats [Chenango Co. NY], May 20th, Mrs. Frances Ferguson, aged 48 years, widow of the late James Ferguson, and daughter of the late Peleg Pendleton, of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

ALDRICH:  In Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY], May 31st, Mr. Channing Aldrich, aged 75 years.

MARTIN:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], May 12th, Mr. Samuel Martin, aged 76 years.

MARTIN:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], May 22d, Martha [Martin] widow of Samuel Martin, aged 73 years.

McDonough [Chenango Co. NY]:  Joel Martin, Esq. of Indianapolis and Mrs. Schrender, of Syracuse, formerly residents of this vicinity, were in town May 14th, attending the funeral of their father, Samuel Martin, who died May 12th, at the residence of Seymour Martin, in East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY].  Scarcely had they reached their homes, before the flash of the wires communicated the sad intelligence of the death of their mother, which occurred May 22d, at McDonough.  Promptly Joel and Samuel Martin returned to the burial of their maternal parent.  A singular coincidence connected with the decease of this aged couple is the fact that although distance intervened, they were stricken down with the same disease.  [Chenango Telegraph, June 4, 1874]

SMITH:  In McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], May 30th, Mrs. Maria Smith, wife of William Smith, aged 55 years. After a lingering illness of many months, in which the deceased was a patient sufferer, she calmly bade her loved ones adieu, and died in peace.  

McDonough [Chenango Co. NY]:  Mrs. Mariah Smith, wife of William Smith, died May 30th, aged 55 years.  Disease, an inward cancerous affection.  In her death, the community has lost a worthy member, a sorrowing husband an affectionate and devoted companion, and her children an indulgent and merciful parent.  [Chenango Telegraph, June 4, 1874]

Our burdened hearts, with anxious fears, / Expected such a change would come; / And yet how hard, amid our tears, / To say, "the will of God be done."

The remains of Mrs. Charles A. Thorp, mother of Mrs. H.G. Prindle, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], who died at Carbon Cliff, Ill. some months since, were brought to this village, on Thursday last and interred in the family grounds in our village cemetery.

Dr. James H. Reddy, son of Rev. William Reddy, died of consumption at the residence of his parents, in Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY], May 15th, aged 25 years.  His remains were interred at Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY].

Alvin Sturdevant, formerly editor of the Binghamton Standard [Broome Co. NY], died at Benton Harbor, Mich, on the 26th ult.

Dr. James Brooks, a respected physician of Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], died on Tuesday of last week.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, June 4, 1874

Deaths

At the residence of Hiram Curtis, in this town [Greene, Chenango co. NY], Mrs. Ann Curtis, aged 82 years.

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Mrs. Grace [Skillin], wife of the late Hugh Skillin, aged 77 years, 3 months.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, June 6, 1874

Marriages

DREW - SIMMONS:  At the residence of the bride's father in this town [Bainbridge, Chenango Co. NY], on the 2d inst., by Rev. G.W. Abrams, Mr. David Y. Drew, of Shodack, N.Y. [Rensselaer Co.], to Miss Mary L. Simmons, of Bainbridge, N.Y.

LEWIS - GAGE:  At the Susquehanna Valley House in this village [Bainbridge, Chenango Co. NY], May 28th, by Rev. A.D. Richardson, Mr. Nelson Lewis to Miss Celia Gage, both of Morris [Otsego Co. NY].

TRAVIS - WILLIS:  In Masonville [Delaware Co. NY], June 3d, by Rev. N. Ripley, Mr. H.J. Travis, M.D. of Woodstock, N.Y. [Ulster Co.] to Miss Mary E. Willis of Masonville.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, June 4, 1874

News Item

Decoration Day

We rejoice to know that so many of our people, especially a goodly number of devoted women, had it in their hearts to lay aside for a little [while] the perplexities and absorbing interest of business, the cares and joys of family and home, and devote one brief hour in the year in accordance with a most beautiful custom, in decorating the graves of our soldier dead.  The demonstration of Saturday was spontaneous in its development as it was genuine in spirit and in deed.

It was born of the higher and nobler sentiments of our nature and told of remembrance and love.  An immense turnout was not expected and in this nobody was disappointed, for the conditions were wanting to attract the crowd.

Patriotism had not been stirred by spread eagle appeals or by the fife and drum. But the quietness and want of showy parade, rendered the occasion to those who participated more than ordinarily impressive.

Two or three days before the simple announcement was made in the papers that the graves of Norwich soldiers would be decorated, a committee of ladies was named to see that the necessary flowers and decorations were prepared, certain things requested or indicated as proper to be done, and that was all there was of it.  The proprieties of the day and the occasion and the dictates of one's own conscience carried the invitation home.

A little past 4 o'clock in the afternoon, a large company of little girls had collected about and upon the steps of the Court House, while the ladies decoration committee and others had gathered in the Christian Association rooms.

Presently a juvenile military company in uniform with miniature band appeared upon the streets, and took up a line of march, followed by a procession of children, to the cemetery.

Clergy, Glee Club, old and young, made their way in an informal manner, in carriage or on foot to the burying ground.  Messrs. Sumner & Tanner kindly volunteering the use of their Buss for the accommodation of floral committee of ladies.

Reaching the cemetery, where several hundred by this time had congregated, the tomb of Lieutenant Breed, it being near the entrance was first covered with wreaths and flowers, the Glee Club under direction of Mr. Cary, singing one of their choicest airs.

The grave of Col. Smith was next reached which was lovingly decorated by tender hands and prayer opened by Rev. Mr. Judd of the M.E. Church.

All the soldiers, graves in like manner were decorated and a flag placed upon each.  It was understood there would be no speeches, and only a few words by Rev. Mr. Haynes and Dr. Beecher. The weather was all that could have been desired if we except too bright sunshine, the rays of which were scorching, still there was a fresh and inspiring breeze which modified the asperities of the blazing heat of the sun.

All who witnessed or took part in the hallowed exercises seemed pleased that the day though in an informal manner had been so handsomely and appropriately observed.

The graves of the following soldiers were decorated:

Col. Elisha B. Smith, 114th, mortally wounded at Port Hudson, June 14, 1863, Died the 19th.

Lieut. Edward E. Breed, 114th, died of wounds received at Opequan, Va., September 19, 1864

Merritt C. Shaver, 18th N.Y. and 19th? Heavy Artillery and 9th Heavy Artillery, died at Hart's island of apoplexy, [March] 2, 1865

Emerson C. Crandall, 89th N.Y. and 5th U.S. Light Artillery.  Died from disease contracted in service, Feb. 22, 1872

William D. Hughson, 22d N.Y.C., died in St. Mary's Hospital, Rochester, March 20, 1864

John Nelson, Jr., 114th and 80th N.Y.C., died of consumption, Nov. 20, 1868

William H. Brewster, 8th U.S. Infantry, died Jan. 19, 1866

C.H. DeForest, 114th, died Oct. 3, 1866

David H. Green, 22d N.Y.C., died July 2, 1865

Jonathan E. Brushell, 11h U.S. Artillery, died November 18, 1870?

Henry Dickson, 44th N.Y., died Sept. 3, 1865

John G Stevens, 44th N.Y. died of consumption, September 3, 1871

Byron L. Terry, 9th Army Corps Hospital, died in Guilford, Oct. 26, 1864

Cyrus C. Cobb, [161st NY Inf.] accidentally killed after discharge from service [Oct. 4, 1866].

Benjamin Johnson, died July 1869

John Barnes, died from injuries received on the D.L.&W.R.R. March 24, 1873

Soldiers who have died since last Decoration Day.

Wm. T. Farrell, 44th N.Y., died June 1, 1873

Orrin E. Wood, 114th, N.Y., died Jan. 10th, 1874

James Mason, 8th U.S. Inf'ty died May 3, 1874.

Whether the graves at Northeast quarter, White Store and Phetteplace grounds, were decorated, we have not learned, but trust they were not forgotten by the citizens of those localities.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, May 1874 (concluded)

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 28, 1874

Marriage

At Chenango Forks [Broome Co. NY], May 21st, by Rev. Mr. Foster, Cortland, Mr. Frank N. Harrington, of Cortland [Cortland Co. NY] to Miss Hattie Squires, of the former place.

Deaths

In this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], May 24th, Mr. Andrew Upham, aged 36 years and 8 months.

In Smithville Flats [Chenango Co. NY], May 20th, Mrs. Frances Ferguson, aged 48 years, widow of the late James Ferguson.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], May 17th, Mrs. Mary Carr, aged 73 years.

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Saturday morning, May 23d, Mr. Charles A. Wheeler, in the 51st year of his age.

This esteemed Christian brother was suddenly taken from his beloved family and the scenes of life.  After an illness of just a week his eyes were closed in death.  Tender and sensitive in lungs, the disease, pneumonia, took at once strong hold and did its work rapidly.  Of a nature quiet and reserved, gentle in disposition, warm in his attachments, with decided intellectual tastes and tendencies, sound in judgment, we shall miss him greatly in the varied and valued relations which he sustained in life. Devoted in his attachment to the Chruch on whose Ordinances he faithfully attended, his vacant seat in the sanctuary will be deeply realized by all who worshipped with him at the Chruch's altar.  Other organizations in our midst will miss him, for he was always ready to fulfill the obligations which they exacted. Surely death has been doing a rapid and fearful work lately in our little community, and who can tell who and where the next victim may be.  With our departed friends the summons though sudden was not unexpected, for his faith was anchored on Christ and his hope reposed within the vail.  May God sustain with his grace the beloved ones stricken by this blow.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, May 30, 1874

Marriages

BOLT - LENOX:  At the M.E. Parsonage in Smyrna [Chenango Co. NY], May 21st, 1874, by Rev. A.F. Brown, Mr. Charles A. Bolt and Mrs. Ella Lenox, al of Greene, N.Y. [Chenango Co.]

WOOD - PENDLE:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], May 23d, by Rev. W.J. Judd, Mr. George W. Wood, of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY], to Miss Fannie E. Pendell, of Norwich.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, May 30, 1874

Marriage

Guilford, Chenango Co. NY:  Mr. Allen [Albert] Norton and Miss Emma Teed were married in Walton [Delaware Co. NY], one week ago last Saturday, and are now stopping at the home of the bride's father. Allen intends to assist his father in the manufacture of butter tubs, pails, etc. in his shop in this village.

Death

LYON:  In the town of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], on the 10 inst. of inflammation of the brain, Alice A. [Lyon] wife of Orville J. Lyon, aged 24 years, 10 months and 4 days.

In the morning of life she has been transferred to a heavenly home, leaving the earthly one desolate.  A few weeks since we saw her holding with loving clasp her laughing, blue-eyed boy, happy in his innocent love and winning ways.  then came days and nights of anxious watching by the cradle of the little one, as it lingered between life and death, but when the crisis was past, and her heart made glad with the thought that her darling was spared to her, she too was stricken down, and earthly love or skill were unavailing to save.

The natural amiability of character which she possessed was manifested throughout her sickness and in her hours of consciousness those who ministered to her by day or watched through the night hours saw the sweet smile upon her face with which she ever greeted them when in health.  Much of the time friends were unrecognized and the voice of love tenderly calling her name met no responsive word or look.  The morning preceding her death she knew and smiled upon them, but soon slept, and near the close of the Sabbath quietly and gently "entered into rest."

A few years since Mrs. L. sought and accepted Jesus as her friend and Savior, and publicly professed her faith in Him, thus adding the beauty of a Christian character to the graces already hers. She could not Fial to win the love and esteem of those who knew her, either intimately or otherwise. But the voice that once sweetly echoed in song is hushed - her earth work ended.

To him who is so sadly bereaved we extend our sympathies, feeling that his is a sorrow we cannot know until the bitter waves of experience have gone over us.  May he trust in Him who is able to comfort and sustain in every trial.

L.  Coventryville, N.Y.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, May 1874 (concluded)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 28, 1874

Marriages

WOOD - PENDELL:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], May 23d, by Rev. W.J. Judd, Mr. George W. Wood of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Fannie E. Pendell, of Norwich.

PERRY - COOK:  In this town [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], April 27th, by Rev. W.J. Judd, Mr. Willia A. Perry to Miss Mary E. Cook.

BEATIE - McGINNESS:  At St. Patrick's Church, in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], May 126th, by Rev. D. O'Connell, Mr. Thomas J. Beatie to Miss Annie McGinness.

THOMPSON - OGDEN:  At Chenango Forks [Broome Co. NY], May 21st, by Rev. J.D. Woodruff, Mr. William S. Thompson of East Mcdonough [Chenango Co. NY] to Mrs. Eliza J Ogden, of Etna, N.Y. [Tompkins Co.].

Deaths

GRADY:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], May 24th, Mr. John Grady, son of Thomas Grady, aged 25 years and 6 months.

SHERMAN:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], May 25th, Nellie Edee [Sherman], daughter of Emma Sherman, aged 1 year and 3 months.

HALE:  At her residence, No. 179 Howe St., Chicago, Ill. on Thursday, May 14th, Hattie D. [Hale], wife of Charles N. Hale, formerly of this village.

POWERS:  In South Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], May 9th, of paralysis, Mr. Myron Powers, aged 74 years.

ARNOLD:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] May 18th, Mrs. Lucretia Arnold, aged 68 years.

ARNOLD:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], May 18th, Mr. Harry Arnold, aged 71 years.

BLACKMAN:  In Preston [Chenango Co. NY], May 22d, Cynthia [Blackman], wife of the late almon Blackman, aged 65 years.

HAMILTON:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], April 28th, Miss Lucinda Hamilton, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], aged 58 years.

STAFFORD:  In Gratiot Co. Mich., April 24th, Mr. Joseph Stafford, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], aged 73 years.

EDMONDS:  In Bath, N.Y. [Steuben Co.] April 28th, Miss Rosa Edmonds, aged 18 years, formerly a student in Oxford Academy [Chenango Co. NY].

PATRICK:  At Mountain Lake, Minn, May 15th, Carrie A. [Patrick] second daughter of W.W. and Lidorna E. Patrick and sister of Mrs. Walter B. Norton of this place [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], aged 19 years and 4 months.

It is not long since we laid her there. / Her white hands folded on her breast; / And on her forehead, cold and fair, / The seal of everlasting rest. / Oh, Death! thy withering hand is laid / Oft on earth's fairest, sweetest flowers; / O'er many a home doth fall a shade, / But none more deep than rests on ours.

William Kerns, formerly of Oneida [Madison Co. NY], and whose sister and widowed mother still reside here, was killed on the Midland near Hancock Station, Delaware County [NY], on Thursday of last week.  He was employed as brakeman on a work train, and the accident which led to his death was caused by the train being thrown from the track by running over a cow.  He was thrown by the collision between the cars, and his body was cut and mangled in a shocking manner causing instant death. The young man was well and favorably known in Oneida.  He was 22 years of age, and leaves a wife in Walton, Delaware Co. [NY].  His funeral took place at Hancock on Saturday last, his mother and sister being present on the sad occasion. Oneida Union.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, May 29, 1874

Death

Dwight Henry Clarke

At his residence in the village of Oxford, Chenango County, N.Y., of typhoid pneumonia, on the evening of April 17, 1874, Dwight Henry Clarke, aged 55, second son of the late Ethan and Rachel Clarke.

The death of Judge Clarke makes the first break in a circle of nine children (three older and five younger than he), most of whom have lived nearly all their lives at Oxford, and all of whom have for several years met to hold Christmas-tide reunions in the hospitalities of the home of the oldest brother, James W. Clarke, Esq.  They were all present at his funeral, and all but one in his dying chamber.

The occasion has seemed to justify a tribute to the power and recompenses of corporate life, knit by the ties filled with the vital force of Christian faith.  For next to the strong ties of home which this circle had learned to cherish, both by the precept and example of parents and forefathers, was the inherited love and devotion for the Church, in which all had been numbered as communicants, and into whose fellowship the older once entered on a well-remembered day along with their exemplary mother, Mr. Ethan Clarke, the father, having sought this privilege earlier.

It is no exaggeration to say of this sentiment, as it was woven into their hometraining and grew into their lives, that it availed to the transplanting of home into the Church, and that it has made home and its memories and hopes imperishable.

It is this fruitful experience of hallowing the ties of life by the uses of religion and the Church, of grace flowing in the channels and perfecting the life of nature, which this notice is designed to commemorate - not, thank God, as exceptional and solitary, but as exemplary and imitable, and needed by these times.

Judge Clarke came of the stock of the brothers Clarke who in 1638 settled in Newport, R.I.  His grandfather was one of a Rhode Island colony of Sabbatarians which emigrated in 1795 to Brookfield, Madison County, and its neighborhood, and he was its pastor until his death in 1831.

In the Oxford Academy and at Union College, Judge Clarke received his literary training, and in the office of the late James Clapp, Esq., at Oxford, he pursued his legal studies.  He entered on the practice of his profession in Jackson, Mich., but after two years returned to Oxford, where he resided until his death.

In 1850, he was chosen Dist. Atty. of his county, which office he held for three years, and in 1855, was elected County Judge and Surrogate (untied in one in this county) and in 1859 re-elected, holding the office for eight years. After his retirement from the bench, Judge Clarke resumed the practice of the law, and continued it successfully to the close of his life.

I add the following testimonies from his professional peers and intimates:  "Judge Clarke had eminently the legal mind, but the high rank in his profession which held for many years, he owed largely to the high standard set before him as a student, and to the longer and more thorough preparation which were then rigidly required.  In his official trusts, everyone bore witness to his eminent ability and integrity.  Of a kind and amiable temper, he drew around him devoted friends from all classes. Everyone found him at all times affable and cheerful, and prepared to be their friend and counsellor."

A professional friend of high standing gave to the present writer this deliberate eulogy:  "I speak from eighteen years' close knowledge, and from intimate relations with judge Clarke for sixteen of those years, and I can say that he is the only man of my professional acquaintance of whom I can record that I never heard imputed to him the doing of a mean or dishonest or unworthy thing.  Such imputations are often cast unjustly, in rashness and in passion, but I never heard one even cast on him."

Such testimonies do honor to their authors a well as to their subjects, and it is pleasant to record them.

But after all, those who best knew our departed friend and brother, and who cherish most his memory, will commend my closing witness as the highest lesson of all who knew him, viz:  that three things combined to carry him through those perils on life's voyages in which so many have made utter shipwreck - the mutual ties of home and brotherhood, which no stress or strain could weaken; the hallowing force which Christian faith put into these; and sedulous devotion to work in an honorable calling, for which skill had been patiently acquired.

It is to these we owe the solace of an assurance that our friend died in favor with God, and in the good hope of a blessed resurrection.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, May 1874 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 21, 1874

Marriage

ROCKWELL - SHEPARD:  At the home of the bride, May 13th, by Rev. S.W. Weiss, Mr. Howard C. Rockwell of Rockwell's Mills [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Helen C. Shepard, of Hartwick [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

BELLOWS:  At the residence of her son-in-law, William Mosher, in Greene [Chenango Co. NY], May 18th, Mrs. Nancy Bellows, widow of the late Dr. Daniel Bellows, of this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], aged 82 years.  Funeral services will be held at the residence of her son, Dr. H.K. Bellows, in this village, on Thursday afternoon, at 2 o'clock.

CARR:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], May 17th, Mrs. Mary P. Carr, aged 73 years, mother of J.W. Carr and Mrs. William Eaton, of this place.  Her remains were taken to Hartwick, Otsego Co. [NY], for burial.

DUTTON:  Suddenly, in Columbus [Chenango Co. NY], May 11th, Mr. Riley Dutton, aged 62 years, 5 months and 16 days.

SABINS:  In Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY], March 10th, Sophia [Sabins], wife of Oliver Sabins, aged 58 years and 1 month.

DALRMPLE:  At the residence of C.O. Dalrymple, in Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], May 2d, Mr. Eli Dalrymple, aged 71 years.

GRAY:  At the same residence, may `12th, Mr. Henry Gray, son of Daniel P. Gray, aged 30 years.

PRESTON:  In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], April 7th, Eliza Preston, aged 47 years.

CHAPIN:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], May 11th, Miss Abigail H. Chapin, aged 72 years.

MILLER:  In Eaton [Madison Co. NY], May 3d, Maud [Milled], daughter of Dr. H.P. and Cicitia A. Miller, aged 3 years 1 month and 22 days.

Mrs. Susannah Curtis, a much respected lady of Hamilton [Madison Co. NY], died suddenly on the morning of the 7th inst.

Myron Swift, of Cazenovia [Madison Co. NY], died suddenly of palsy on the 11th, while on a hunting excursion around the lake.

Mrs. A.A. Irskine, of Eaton [Madison Co. NY], was struck with paralysis, which driving to church on the 3d and died on the 5th inst.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, May 21, 1874

Marriages

NEWTON - BENTLY:  In Pitcher [Chenango Co. NY], May 6th, by the Rev. S.P. Way, Mr. W.T. Newton, of Taylor [Cortland Co. NY] to Miss C.G .Bently, of Pitcher.

ADAMS - BENEDICT:  In Georgetown, N.Y. [Madison Co. NY], May 13th, by Rev. C.S. Crain, Lorenzo G. Adams of Beaver Meadow [Chenango Co. NY] and Ada L. Benedict,of Lebanon, N.Y. [Madison Co. NY].

Deaths

ROGERS:  In Pecatonica, Ill. May 9, 1874, of typhoid pneumonia, Mr Franklin Rogers, aged 68 years.

Mrs. Charlotte Allen, the oldest person in the town of Dryden [Tompkins Co. NY], died at her residence near Varna [Tompkins Co. NY], April 30th, aged 96 years, 9 months, 2 days. She lived on the farm where she died just half a century.  Her oldest child is 73 years old, and lives in Moravia, Cayuga county [NY]. 

_________________________________

Many of our older inhabitants will doubtless remember that there resided in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], between twenty-five and thirty years ago, a man by the name of Isaac H. Andrews.

In 1849, or thereabouts he "taught the young idea how to shoot" in the old red schoolhouse on Fair Street and for some considerable time held the position of Town Superintendent.  Subsequently he studied law in the office of George M. Smith, Esq., and in course of time was admitted to practice.

Although a man of considerable ability he possessed peculiar traits of character and a singularly developed mind. About the year 1851 he left Norwich suddenly, in a somewhat mysterious manner, since which time, as far as we know, he has not been heard from till within the past few days.

The following from the Green Bay (Wis) Gazette, kindly furnished us by Mr. J.T. Monk, of Watertown in that state tells the sequel:

About three years ago, a singular looking individual presented himself to Mr. Abraham Taylor, of Fort Howard, and sought the position of night watchman in his mill at Duck Creek.  He was a little, dried up, pinched face, beady eyed, white haired old man, quiet in his manners and having the appearance of a man who had seen better days.  He gave his name as Isaac Andrews, was accepted and worked faithfully in gaining the esteem of his employer by his strict attention to his duties.  He rarely ever spoke of himself, and no one knew anything of his past history, though it was evident he had a history.  He said he had never been married and had been to California. That was all.  Who were his friends, whence he came, what he intended - these were the natural queries among his new mill comrades; but he evaded answering, and gradually interest in him died out.  He was singularly abstemious and temperate in habits.  We remember him well in the Grant campaign, in which he took a strong interest, from his singular appearance and a remark he made when subscribing for the Gazette for the campaign.  Last Friday he died at Duck Creek of Paralysis after an illness of a week, and was buried by his former employer, Mr. Taylor, whose employment he left only about three weeks before.  Among his effects was found a certificate of the Supreme Court of New York, dated at Norwich, Chenango County, January 15th, 1851 admitting Isaac H. Andrews to practice as attorney, solicitor and counselor in all the courts of the State.  Another paper issued from the county court of Jefferson County, Wis., admitting him to practice in that court, July 1st 1860.  And that was all.  He left no pecuniary effects.  He was evidently a man of considerable education and had started in life with a fine prospect of success.  What blight overtook and wrecked him completely can only be imagined, it can never be known.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 21, 1874

Death

May 2d, Mr. Samuel Ferguson, formerly of Smithville Flats [Chenango Co. NY], aged 46 years.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, May 23, 1874

Death

GORHAM:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 15th inst., Mrs. Anna Gorham, aged 78 years.  Deceased was the widow of Raymond Gorham who died in 1863. She had long been a resident of Sherburne and was held in the highest estimation for her virtues and hospitalities. A large concourse of friends followed her remains to the tomb and the manifestations of grief at her loss was evidence of the strong hold she had upon those who knew her best.

Tragic Abortion Case, Norwich, Chenango Co. NY, (Part III) Trial & Not Guilty Verdict, April 1875

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, May 20, 1874

Miss Nellie Le Clear, sister of the girl who met such a tragic death at the Chenango house [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], week before last, was in town on Monday, looking after the things belonging to her sister.  She informed us that Josephine had talked to her about her engagement with John D. Kelly; that Kelly had promised that as soon as he could sell the hotel at Hamilton [Madison Co. NY], and settle up his business, they would get married.  The wedding would take place during the past winter.  The family have received two letters from Kelly since the death of Josephine, in which he claims that he had shipped the body and paid the expenses, not from any interested motive, but out of friendship for the girl and her family.  It is probably out of friendship for Kelly that he keeps out of the reach of the officers of the law.

Sheriff Brown kindly assisted Miss Le Clear, and the proprietor of the Chenango House surrendered to her the clothing belonging to poor Josie and tendered her the hospitality of the house.

Arrest of John D. Kelly

Chenango Union, October 22, 1874

Our readers will remember an account published last spring, of the death of Josephine Le Clear, which occurred at the Chenango house in this village, on the 29th of April last, from the effects of an abortion produced upon her person.  John D. Kelly of Hamilton, the party suspected of being the principal in the case, left at that time for parts unknown, and although efforts have since been made to ascertain his whereabouts, they were not until Friday of last week successful. A dispatch from Hamilton of that day informed Sheriff Brown that Kelly was in that village, he having returned to his home to attend the funeral of a brother.  Officer Smith at once proceeded to Hamilton, where he arrested Kelly and lodged him in jail in this village, under an indictment by the Grand Jury. On Saturday, Sheriff Brown accompanied his prisoner to Hamilton, where he attended the funeral; after which they returned to this place, where Kelly is still confined, in default of bail.

P.S.  Since the above was in type, we learn that Kelly was on Monday admitted to bail, in the sum of $3,000, T.C. Pettis, of Oxford, becoming his bondsman.

The Le Clear Abortion Case Trial

Chenango Union, April 1875

The trial of Dr. Peter B. Havens, under indictment for producing an abortion upon Miss Josephine Le Clear, thereby causing her death was commenced in the Court of Sessions on Monday afternoon.  District Attorney Knapp, and Solomon Bundy, Esq., appeared for the people, and D.G. Wellington, of Hamilton and Hon. E.H. Prindle and Isaac S. Newton, Esq., of Norwich, for the defendant.  The following persons were sworn in as jurors:  George W. Church, Smithville; Gilbert J. Park, Coventry; Sidney Howard, Columbus; Samuel W. Kinney, Oxford; Amos Bowen, Guilford; Leonard Titus, North Norwich; George Thomas, German; John J. Godfrey, Sylvanus Carhart, Guilford; M.M. Newton, Pitcher; William Arnold, McDonough; Robert McCray, Smithville.

District Attorney Knapp opened the case for the people, briefly reviewing the case.  At the conclusion of his opening, a motion was made to quash the indictment, on the ground that it was defective; but the motion was denied.

Normon Cox, proprietor of the Chenango House, where the woman died, was the witness called.  He related her condition while at the hotel but was not permitted to state anything that she told him in regard to the perpetrator of the crime.  Dr. H.K. Bellows, Dr. James J. Wescott, and Dr. H.M. Smith, testified to the fact that an abortion had been produced, and that death was caused thereby.  They also testified that the woman had been shockingly mutilated by the operation.  Dr. Elisha George, of Syracuse, who made the postmortem examination, was also examined at length as to the cause of her death, and extent and nature of the injuries.

Besides these, the following named witnesses were sworn for the people:  Calista A. Evans, Anna Onday, John N. Ingalls, George Pratt, Fran Burrows, Mary Baker, Ellen La Clear, Lydia Dunbar, and Fanny Woods.

One of these witnesses swore that he saw Dr. Havens come out of the room occupied by Miss Le Clear at the hotel in Hamilton, on the day and at the hour the abortion was alleged to have been produced.  Another testified to having seem Dr. Havens in company with Kelly in the sitting room of the hotel in Hamilton, on the afternoon mentioned, and that Miss Le Clear was in the room.  The testimony of the other witnesses was unimportant, relating principally to the condition of Miss Le Clear immediately preceding her death at the Chenango House.

The last witness called was John D. Kelly, who is under indictment as accessory to this crime.  After taking the stand, his counsel objected to his testifying, on the ground that he might injure his own case.  He therefore declined to testify.  Upon this witness the prosecution relied for direct testimony fastening the guilt upon Dr. Havens.  No other positive and direct proof could be obtained.  The case for the people was therefore declared closed.

Counsel for defendant again moved to have the indictment quashed and argued at length to show that it was defective under existing statutes.  This motion was denied, and then by agreement the case was submitted to the jury, without examining any witnesses for the defense. In his charge to the jury, Judge Prindle held that the evidence against the accused was not sufficient to warrant a conviction. The jury was out but a short time and returned a verdict of not guilty.

This case has occupied a good deal of attention in this community.  The crime was a most shocking and brutal one.  We congratulate Dr. Havens upon his acquittal, but we cannot help wishing that he had been able to show beyond a question of doubt that he was in no manner connected with the affair. We approve the verdict of the jury, as the evidence was not sufficient to warrant a conviction.  In the meantime, all will unite in the wish that the perpetrators of the crime will eventually be brought to justice.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, May 1874 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, May 14, 1874

Marriage

ALDRICH - BLACKMAN:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], May 10th, by Rev. W.H. Waldron, Mr. Alb....a Aldrich to Miss Josephine Blackman, both of Plymouth [Chenango Co. NY].

Death

FINCH:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], may 9th, Mrs. Emma Finch, aged 93 years.

STANBRO:  In Beaver Meadow [Chenango Co. NY], April 21st, Dea. Joseph Stanbro, aged 76 years.

SPENCER:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], May 7th, May [Spencer], only daughter of Dr. M.D. Spencer, aged 9 years.

RECTOR:  In Blue Earth City, Minn., May 5th, Sarah [Rector], wife of George Rector, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], aged 38 years.

The correspondent of the Sherburne News [Chenango Co. NY] states that John Weaver, aged 94 years, died on the 3d inst., at the residence of his son, Charles Weaver, on Smyrna Hill. Deceased came to Smyrna about or before the year 1800 and was at the time of his death the oldest resident of the town.  His funeral was attended on Wednesday at the Quaker church.  

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, May 14, 1874

Marriages

CARROL - REDDY:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], May 12th, at St. Patrick's church, by Rev. D. O'Connell, John Carroll and Bridget? Reddy.

WINSOR - MARSH:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY] on the 14th of April, by the Rev. S. Scoville, at the bride's residence, Mr. Joseph Winsor to Miss Julia Marsh, both of this village.

Deaths

MEAD:  In Manhattan, Ks., April 25, 1874, Nancy [Mead] wife of James Mead, formerly from Laurens, Otsego County, N.Y., aged 68 years.

We regret to learn of the sudden death of Major Schenck, of the Utica Herald [Oneida Co., NY], which occurred on Wednesday morning last.  Major Schenck has been connected with the Morning Herald since the summer of 1871.  He was a terse and vigorous writer, well adapted by severe discipline and thorough education to the field of journalism, to which he was greatly attached.  At the outbreak of the rebellion, the Major early enlisted his energies in the Union cause, leaving the profession of law, for active service in the field.  At the close of the war he returned to Auburn, his native city, and settled down in the practice of law.  Upon the establishment, soon after, of a daily newspaper in Auburn, the Morning News, he accepted the position of managing editor.  Subsequently he was engaged as an editorial writer upon the staff of the New York Times.  From August 1871 to December 1873, he served as night editor upon the staff of the Utica morning Herald, and for the past few months, up to the time of his death, had been managing editor of that ably conducted and influential journal.  Although retiring in his disposition, he was possessed of splendid social qualities, and had strongly attached to himself a large circle of devoted friends.  His death, as indicated by the feeling notices of the press in all parts of the State, is universally lamented and mourned.

This community was saddened on Friday morning last to learn of the death of Mrs. Chas. O. Payne (formerly Miss Cornelia Newell, of this village [Morris, Otsego Co. NY], who died at Oneonta [Otsego Co. NY], the evening before.  Previous to Mrs. Payne's marriage she had charge of the Primary Department of our Union Free School.  She was beloved by her pupils, who will regret to learn that their dear teacher has so soon passed to that land from whence no traveler ever returns.  Mrs. P. had many warm and personal friends in this vicinity, who will deeply sympathize with the bereaved husband, parent and relatives in their affliction.  Her remains were brought to this place and her funeral services took place at Zion Chruch last Saturday, Rev.'s Smith and Fitzgerald officiating.  Morris chronicle 

Historical News Item - John Percival

As one of the readers of Chenango newspapers, I have been deeply interested in the pioneer sketches which have appeared from time to time and presume that thousands of others are equally interested.  Certainly, the press of the country has done much to rescue from oblivion many incidents connected with our pioneer history, and it is a source of regret that something more comprehensive and systematic has not been entered upon, so that a connected and reliable history of the country could be had.

In the year 1795 John Percival came from Lee, Massachusetts, and settled three and a half miles west of the present village of Smyrna.  It was then a difficult matter to penetrate that region with a team, and soon after his arrival he engaged in the construction of a section of the turnpike over which there was a large amount of travel from towns as far west as Homer and Cortland to Albany. The enterprise proved unfortunate for him pecuniarily and involved him in embarrassments from which he never extricated himself.

Mr. Percival was one of the nine Revolutionary soldiers who went from Lee and took part in skirmishes near Boston.  He was one of the band commanded by Arnold in the expedition up the Kenebee to cooperate against Canada. The present generation know little of the sufferings of the patriots who were in that service. They traversed dismal forests and almost impassable swamps, and ten miles a day was their average rate of progress. At a distance of one hundred and fifty miles from any inhabitants the best supplied men had less than a quart of flour, and many of them none. Their famished dogs were slaughtered and eaten, then resort was had to their cartouche boxes and shoes.  If a squirrel was killed no part of it was marked by cooking but eaten raw.  When this band was dissolved each man was left to find his own way and emerge from the vast wilderness as best he could. The weak bid farewell to their comrades and lay down to die.  Mr. Percival was then in the prime of life and had as a companion a man named Fuller, also from Lee, who, completely exhausted, placed himself upon a log, and bidding Mr. P. to go forward and save himself, if possible, he deliberately laid down to die.  Mr. Percival was at the siege of Quebec and subsequently at the surrender of Burgoyne and in some other engagements with the British. The writer often heard him recount the story of the sufferings he and others endured in the Revolutionary struggle, and they seemed almost too incredible for belief.  He was a near relative of the poet, James G. Percival, who spent most of his years in Connecticut but died at Hazel Greene, Wisconsin, while engaged in a geological survey of the State.

The subject of this notice reared a large family of children, only two of whom are living [in 1874], a son in Michigan and a daughter in Illinois.  With his own hands he was industrious to clearing many of the now productive acres near his old homestead.  He came from his eastern home with the strictest Puritan principles, and during his long life, reaching to nearly ninety years, he maintained and lived by them in all their integrity.  He died thirty-seven years ago and his ashes rest in the cemetery of the Presbyterian Church in Gaines, Orleans County.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, May 13, 1874

Marriage

At the residence of the bride's father, in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], May 7th, by Rev. J. H Sage, William A. Smith, Esq., to Miss Mary J. [Rose]. daughter of Dea. A.G. Rose.

Deaths

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], May 8th, Mr. Dewitt Storms, aged 66 years.

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], March 23d, Mrs. Mary J. McComb.

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], April 14th, Mrs. Fanny [Parsons], wife of John Parsons, aged 44 years.

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], April 16th, Mrs. Sarah Freguson, aged 78 years.

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], April 17th, Miss Augusta Read, aged 34 years.

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], James [Yarnes], son of Jas. and Hannah Yarnes, aged 8 months, 13 days.

In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], May 9th, Mrs. Emma Finch, aged 98 years.

The late Silas Gould of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], whose death was announced in the last issue was born [unreadable] in the year 1809.  At the age of -?- years he removed with his parents to Chenango County in the village which he has principally resided in and his death [-?-] the love and confidence of those around him.  By honesty, industry and perseverance, he accumulated a comfortable home, where in the possession of plenty and happiness death hungered for him, and after a lingering illness he was called from his late residence where are left stricken hearts to mourn the loss of him who so lately walked among us.

The beautiful services of the M.E. Church were read over the remains by Rev. Mr. Rosskelly, in charge of the parish in which he resided.  Mr. Gould during his residence in Coventry has maintained uniformly the reputation of honor, possessing prominently the elements of honesty, sincerity, benevolence and a cultivated purpose to do right among his fellow men, which rendered his life worthy of the high estimation he richly enjoyed and duly reciprocated. In all his business transactions, strict integrity was his rule of action; though unobtrusive in his manner, those who enjoyed his acquaintance found his friendship the offspring of a warm and generous heart.  His active habits, genial disposition, and strong tender sympathies endeared him to many, and especially to his family who now miss the sunshine of his presence. Though the chill messenger has borne his spirit forever away from the scenes of earth, yet his memory and his example live. Time may obliterate the traces of the loss but can never take the memory of the good name and better deeds of Silas Gould.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, May 16, 1874

Marriage

DOYLE - NAUGHTON:  In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], April 27th, by Rev. D. O'Connell, Mr. Thomas Doyle to Miss Sarah An Naughton

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, May 16, 1874

Marriage

IRELAND - CLARK:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], May 5th, by Rev. J.E. Jones, Mr. Alson Ireland to Miss Carrie L. Clark, both of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

PEARSALL:  In this town [Bainbridge, Chenango Co. NY], May 10th, Smith Pearsall, aged 80 years.

MARTIN:  In Mason City, Ill., May 4th, John Martin, aged 45 years.  His remains were brought to Colesville [Broome Co. NY], his former residence for interment.

LYON:  In the town of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY], on the 10 inst. of inflammation of the brain, Alice A. [Lyon[, wife of Orville J. Lyon, aged 24 years, 109 moths and 4 days.