Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, February 1876 (continued)

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, February 17, 1876

Marriages

At the Chenango House in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 9th, by Rev. W.H. Gavitt, Mr. Frank M. Shapley to Miss Helen Nichols, both of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

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North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 15th, 1876:  Mr. Editor:  Were you ever married?  If not, take my advice, come to North Norwich, be married at once, and have your wooden wedding first.  Do you ask why.  I will tell you:  Last Thursday evening, while my wife, her sister and myself, were enjoying a chat with Miss Jaynes, and waiting for G.W. to come and complete the party, he arrived and with him, about forty others, bearing baskets, pails, pitchers, &c, &c.  One of the party informed me that they came as friends and asked that we have confidence enough in them to accord them possession of our rooms and bide the result.  "Peace hath her victories as well as war," and we yielded to the gentle words of overpowering numbers.  They came to have a good time and went right about it.  Of course, we had not chairs enough for so large a party and when a party of gentlemen entered bringing a fine center table and a set of parlor chairs, we supposed they were simply for the evening's use.  Imagine, if you can, our surprise when Mr. Ludington, in a speech full of congratulations and good wishes for our future, presented them to us.  We tried to respond, but, Mr. Editor, who could have made a speech with a whole set of parlor furniture in his throat?  We had not recovered from this, when another party entered and placed before us a roll (25 yds) of beautiful carpeting, which Dr. Lewis presented in his felicitous way. We attempted a reply, but it very feebly expressed our feelings.

Our friends were here celebrating an anniversary of which we supposed very few knew, and which we had no thought anyone remembered. Then, too, the gifts were not a multiplicity of articles, many of which are useless as is apt to be the character of gifts on such occasions but were just what we most needed in our housekeeping.  Our friends had united in the purchase of these gifts and the card of compliment contained the following names:  Almon Cook, I.V. Lewis, B.F. Merritt, Miss Almira Kinney, Mrs. S.R. Meade, Mrs. M.B. Ludington, Daniel Cole, W.S. Peck, D.W. Waters, Rev. E.W. White, Mrs. Leonard Titus, J.W. Sturges, PerLee E. Shaw, Walter Titus, Solomon Titus, Albert Case, Jr., G.W. Jaynes, Marion Bryant.

In addition opt the above were a fancy chair from Mrs. Isaac PerLee, an elegant tablespread form V.U. Crandall and a handsome dress for little Alma, from Miss Mary Waters.

Our rooms being too small for the company, Mrs. Willis Figary gave us the freedom of her's also, and Mr. Jaynes's organ being placed therein, some time was devoted to singing, Miss Harris playing the organ.  Sociality and music reigned for some time, when the baskets having given out an abundance of food and delicacies that would have tempted the palate of Epicurus himself, all partook with a relish that is given only to those possessed of loving hearts.  One such expression of appreciation will compensate a teacher for many laborious hours though unaccompanied by any intrinsic gift, much more than when emphasized by so rich and tangible testimony.  And here I wish to say, that during eighteen years of experience as a teacher I have not met with more marked courtesy from patrons and pupils or been more earnestly seconded in my endeavors to advance educational interests, than in North Norwich.  And these remarks apply not only to those whose names appear above, but to nearly the entire community.

It becomes me to acknowledge these kindnesses and by them be stimulated to greater exertions, that I may prove worthy of their continuance.

Wishing all a life full of such joy as they have imparted to us, I am, Very truly yours, O.D. Taylor, Jr.

Deaths

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], suddenly, Feb. 16th, of typhoid pneumonia, Mr. Isaac H. Mosher, aged 58 years.  Funeral at the Baptist Church on Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock.

Isaac H. Mosher, an old and respected citizen of this village, died at his residence on Wednesday, after a brief illness of typhoid pneumonia.

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 15th, Mr. Artemus Haynes, aged 77 years.

Artemas Haynes, an old and respected citizen of this village is lying seriously ill at his residence.  Since this was put into type, Mr. Haynes has passed away.

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 15th, of scarlet fever, Anna [Buck] daughter of D.S. H. Buck, aged 9 years, 2 months and 13 days.

The remains of Alonzo Scarrett were brought from Clymer, Chautauqua County [NY] on Friday last and interred on Saturday in the West Sherburne Hill burial ground.[Chenango Co. NY]  Citizen

Mrs. Harriet Cartwright of Triangle [Broome Co. NY], died on Friday, Feb. 11th, after a long and painful illness. The funeral services were held on Monday and while at the grave, her husband, Mr. Samuel Cartwright died of typhoid pneumonia.  Mrs. C. was formerly the wife of Mr. Jordan, an old resident of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY].

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Death of James W. Mandeville

Sacramento, Cal, Feb'y 4:  Controller Mandeville died at 8:30 this morning at his residence, corner of Eighth and O streets from paralysis and congestion of the brain.  His age was 53 and he leaves a widow with two children (boys), aged respectively 8 and 15.  He had been confined to his bed for the last two weeks, and had not actively attended to the duties of his office since the inauguration.  W.B. C. Brown, Deputy controller, has been virtually the head of that department.  Captain Eskin, Senator from Tuolumne, sat up with Mandeville last night, and was with him during his expiring moments. Deceased had been ailing since 1870. In that year, while a member of the State Senate, he was suddenly attacked with paralysis at the Golden Eagle Hotel.  It was then expected that he would not recover, and he continued never competely convalescent up to the present time.

J.W. Mandeville was born in Coventry, Chenango County, New York, in 1824.  He was early left an orphan.  He taught school at the age of sixteen.  Pursuing his studies in Albany, he graduated at the State Normal School, and at the age of twenty-five immigrated to California in 1849.  He taught school in San Jose until the following Spring, when he left San Jose for the southern mines and settled as a miner in Sonora, Tuolumne County, where he was elected to the Legislature in 1852, re-elected the following term, and sent to the Senate from the same county in 1854, serving two years.  He was again elected to the State Senate in 1856 and was elected State Controller in 1857; but receiving the appointment of United States Surveyor-General, he did not qualify as Controller, but held the office of Surveyor-General during Buchanan's administration.  He was elected to the State Senate in 1867, was afterwards Commissioner of Immigration until the law was declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.  At the election held last September he was elected State Controller.

The Joint-Committee on Arrangements have held a meeting and arranged for the funeral on Sunday next from the State Capitol at one P.M. The remains will be interred in the State burial ground.  It is more than probable that the Governor will appoint W.B.C. Brown, Deputy Controller, to the vacant position.

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News Item

Three of the Seeley suits, which have become so notorious in Chenango County [NY] during the past eighteen months were decided at the Circuit Court held in Norwich last week.  In the first case, Seeley agt. Evans for assault and battery, the jury found a verdict of $50 judgment for the plaintiff.

The second suit, Evans agt. Seeley for assault and battery, in which the plaintiff was wounded by a pistol shot, resulted in a verdict of $25 for the plaintiff.

In the divorce suit, Seeley agt. Seeley, the jury found in favor of plaintiff, giving H. Jud. Seeley an absolute divorce from his wife Josephine Seeley.

An indictment, the People agt. R.D. L. Evans, still remains to be tried, when it is to be hoped the curtain will fall and the incidents in this unfortunate domestic scandal be forgotten.  The parties to these proceedings and most of the witnesses (to the number of nearly one hundred) reside at Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY].  Binghamton Times

Letter from Revolutionary Soldier

 Chenango Union, February 24, 1876

Letter from Revolutionary Soldier

From the fragment of a letter in our possession, written one hundred years ago yesterday (Wednesday) we make the following interesting extracts.  It is written in a fair hand and evidently by a man of intelligence and patriotism. Yellow with age and much worn as it is we regret that the closing part is missing and the writer's name consequently lost.

Roxbury Camp, Feb. 22, 1776 - Friday

Worthy and Dear Sir:  You are fully sensible that very different ideas exist in ye minds of those that are in Camp, and in those that are a hundred miles off.  Those yt dwell at a distance are ready to think that an army may be soon ready for action and are prone to blame them for their inactivity, as tho they were more pleased with their pay than doing service for the publick.  Indeed, it is an important service to guard the country from ye invasions of ye Enemy, and more could not possibly have been done since I have been here.  Men, firelocks and ammunition have been all wanting to this day. The Militia are now about all got in; there must be some time to discipline them, to fit them for an Engagement.  Powder is still wanting; about two tuns bro't us within a week, four more expected daily, all from Providence and Connecticut.  In some Towns men are much Engaged to make Salt Peter (In Newbury they have made 5,000 lbs) which may afford a supply of powder after a few months.  Officers and men ardently wish that we were supplied with this Article and then there would be no delay to moving forward with all vigour.  We are making necessary preparations, no less than 500 men employed two days past to cut saplins.

The late most material occurrences stand in this order:  Last week, Wednesday night, about 500 Regulars came over on to Dorchester Hill, took six prisoners, set fire to camps adjacent and went off in a hurry.  Our Guard gave the alarm, and 1,000 men were in arms directly; not time enough to engage ye Enemy, but time enough to Extinguish ye fire. The Monday after two of ye Prisoners were sent to us, each under a flag of truce, which occasioned much speculation in ye Army, but no satisfactory reason for such a conduct in ye Enemy.

Last Sabbath, a Prussian General came from France, by the way of Hispaniola to the Camp.  He was bound to Philadelphia, but drove ashore at cape Cod; bro't an interpreter with him; professes to come not in a public but private Capacity to acquaint himself with ye state of ye Country; says that the newspapers in France are filled with accounts of ye affairs of America; and yt they had heard of ye Capture of St. Johns and rejoiced much at our success, still wondered that we should attempt to take Canada; Had many Letters with him from France for Mr. Frankland, ye President and Secretary of ye Continental Congress.

Last Evening a Party of Ten men under command of Ensign Lyman, of Middletown, took a Watch Guard of ye Regulars on ye Neck, one Corporal and two privates, and bro't ym to Gen'l Spencer's about 8 o'clock to be examined.  Nothing new or material is told by ym.  Mr. Henry Denison was one of ye Ten Men; he is of good reputation and promises fair to be an excellent soldier.  They had got the further side of ye guard and took them without any firing, for ye clock had just struck, and they tho't our Men to be the Relief Guard a coming.

It has been quite a sickly time in ye Army but is improved some.  Three have died out of Col. Jasper's Regiment, of whom came two from Stonington, as I have wrote to others and Mr. Hodge, of Valentown.  there are about an 100 sick in the hospitals, the greater part by far growing better; although some are dangerously sick, none from or near Stonington.  Some are sick in ye Camps, but they are mending.

Tis of ye highest importance to the publick that ye Army be filled up.  The Regulars reproach us, that we call in volunteers for two months at a time. A few days since, when we were at the Lines, said one of the Officers to our men: "What will you do for Soldiers when the two months are up?"  One of our men replied:  Never fear! so long as you go on to pull down Presbyterian meeting houses, we shan't want soldiers in our Army!"  The reply was:  "That may be so."

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, February 1876 (continued)

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, February 17, 1876

Marriages

PHILLIPS - UTTER:  In Georgetown [Madison Co. NY] on the 6th inst. by Rev. Mr. Holroyd at the residence of Wm. Utter, Mr. D.C. Phillips of Otselic [Chenango Co. NY], to Miss Mary Utter of Georgetown.

"It's a long road that never turns" and so Mr. D.C. Phillips of our town almost an old bachelor has found a life companion in the bright-eyed Mary Utter of Georgetown, Friday night the 11th inst., they received a rousing serenade by some young friends of the neighborhood.  Blessings be upon them.

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North Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 14th, 1875:  Messers. Editors:  Seldom it is that anything happens in this rural district worth noticing; but on Thursday evening Feb. 10th, about forty of our citizens assembled at the house of Daniel Cole, and then proceeded en masse to the house of Prof. O.D. Taylor, jr., that evening being the fifth anniversary of his wedding.  The object of the party was to surprise Mr. Taylor and family, as well as to add to the interest of the anniversary exercises.

As the intruders came filing in, one by one, each laden with baskets and pails, packages and pans of refreshments, the family stood there perfect pictures of surprise, until the entire company had entered the room.  When ex Commissioner Luddington introduced the party as friends, who proposed take peaceable possession which was freely granted.

The party soon settled down to the enjoyment of the occasion and what but a few moments before was a chaos of surprise and excitement was now a quiet circle of neighbors and friends.

This quiet, however, was of short duration, for some four or five who had quietly stepped out, came in bringing a neat stand and a fine set of cane-seated parlor chairs, which to add to the surprise already made, were presented to Mr. and Mrs. Taylor by M.B. Luddington, with appropriate and eloquent remarks.  Mr. Taylor who is ever ready, and equal to the occasion when a speech is required, responded to the presentation speech, in a very happy manner.  He expressed his gratitude to his neighbors and friends, for the many kindnesses shown him during his stay in our midst and especially this last token of friendship and esteem.

His remarks were so pleasing to the hearers that one speech would not suffice, so in a short time another party of three or four came in bringing with them twenty or twenty-five years of splendid carpeting, and table cloth, and some other smaller articles which were presented to Mr. and Mr. T., by Dr. Lewis, in a speech he knows so well how to make, always spiced with wit and humor, provoking his hearers to laughter, and at the same time impressing itself upon all who were fortunate enough to hear as just the thing for the occasion.

He expressed the mind of all present when he wished that Mr. and Mrs. T. might ever walk on carpets, and especially that their path through life might always be carpeted with mutual love and prosperity. And also, that wherever the path of duty might lead them, that the table of their hearts and memory might ever be as well loaded with the love and respect of their neighbors as now, and that it might always be covered with the tablecloth of virtue and self-respect, was the wish of all present.

Both Mr. and Mrs. T. expressed their appreciation of the presents, and assured their friends that it was the motive that prompted the act, that endeared the givers as well as the presents to them, rather than the value of the articles presented.  At the same time expressing the wish that they might prove themselves worthy of the confidence reposed in them.  At the conclusion of the presentation ceremonies, a portion of the company repaired to another room, where all who felt disposed united in singing with Miss Harris who presided at the organ with ladylike dignity and in her usual skillful manner.  Shortly the welcome music of the call from labor to refreshment, greeted the ears of all, and they quickly responded and fell to work to try to destroy the piles of "goodies" brought on, but the effort proved futile and had to be abandoned.  Mirth and music held the company until a late hour, and when finally it became necessary to leave, the reluctance with which the party broke up, was sufficient proof that all had enjoyed the evening.

Deaths

Samuel Potter died Feb. 7th, 1876, at the residence of his father-in-law, Abram Rogers in Cuyler, Cortland County [NY].  Potter was wounded, being shot by his wife's brother last summer or fall, from the effects of which he has now died.  The occasion of the shooting was that Potter was a trespasser on what his brother-in-law considered his inestimable rights in the domestic relation.

James Johnson the oldest citizen of Laurens [Otsego Co. NY], died last week at the age of ninety-one years.

Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, February 16, 1876

Death

VAIL:  In Grand Rapids, Mich., Feb. 10, 1876, Cora Bessie [Vail] daughter of George H. and Alice M. Vail, aged thirteen weeks.

News Item

Who Is It?

The following first appeared int he Mariette, O. Register, we copy it from another Ohio paper, sent to a gentleman in this village by a friend and former resident:

Over fifty years ago, there lived in Chenango County, New York, a family consisting of father, mother and two children.  the father left home when the youngest child was but two years old and five years later returned and remained a short time and went away again, never to return to his family.  The mother and two children subsequently came to Ohio, and settled in Washington County, where the children married and have families now residing.  The mother died a few years ago and the father was supposed to be dead, as nothing had been heard from him for forty-eight years.  And now comes the strangest art of the story.  A few years ago, an old man, who had for over thirty years resided in Union County in this State [Ohio], died at Marysville in that county, leaving a large fortune.  He had long lived in and near the town and was well known to the inhabitants as a quiet, reticent man, shrewd in dealings and never accustomed to talk, except on matters of business and no one knew from whence he came or could learn his family history. After his death, very little could be found to indicate where his relatives were, but a memoranda led to the belief that he had once been in Washington County and in fact someone had heard him say that he "married his first wife at Marietta, Ohio, who died leaving an infant son; that he gave the child to a man and wife who had no children, to bring up as their own, with this condition, that they were not to disclose who the father was; that he had improved a farm near Marietta, which he gave these persons.  He said his son had done business in Marietta; that he had visited him and talked with him without disclosing himself.

His administrator gave notice in our county that the heirs of Robson Lovett Broome were wanted.  No one seemed to know anything of such a man and along the old state road from Marietta to Athons none of the old inhabitants could recall such a mail carrier.  For a time the task of finding a clue seemed a hopeless one, but in a pocket diary was found noted down a description of certain farms lying in Washington and Athens counties, and upon investigation these proved to be farms owned by the two children long ago abandoned in New York, and further investigation revealed the fact that the old man had visited these farms and the families of his children a few years ago without disclosing his secret had gathered information and noted it down and left them none the wiser for his visit.

Why he did not disclose himself to them no one can tell, but it is positively known now that his assumed name, Robson Lovett Broome, under which he lived for over thirty years, bore no resemblance to his real name.  His estate of about $40,000 will doubtless be distributed to his heirs in this county.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, February 1876 (continued)

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, February 17, 1876

Marriage

BALDWIN - TRUMAN:  In Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 3d, by Eld. T. Fisher, M. Ira Baldwin to Miss Eunice Truman, both of Lincklaen.

Deaths

PARKER:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 10th, Mrs. Damaris Parker, aged 65 years and 4 months, mother of  Mrs. Charles Rupe and Mrs. Charles Cox.

DEVALL:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 29th, Charles [Devall] son of DeForest and Harriet Devall, aged 6 years.

WILCOX:  Near Syracuse [Onondaga Co. NY], Feb. 4th, Mr. Edgar C. Wilcox aged 89 years and 11 months, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY:  Miss A. Cady, a relative spending a few days at the house of Mr. Asa Harrington was found dead in bed on Monday morning. The cause of her death is unknown.

Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY:  Bela Gager fell suddenly dead near his farm door on Tuesday the 1st inst.  His death was probably caused from heart disease.  He was an estimable citizen, and his loss is regretted by many.

Samuel C. Potter of Truxton [Cortland Co. NY], who was shot by his brother, A.D. Potter, on the 16th of October last for alleged undue familiarity with the latter's wife, died last Sunday from the effects of the wound received upon that occasion.  An examination was held last Monday and the body was pretty thoroughly cut up by the doctors, who were unable to find the ball, which it is supposed caused his death. The mother and wife of Potter stood by and seemed to be interested spectators of the scene. They indulged in remarks which seemed to indicate that they were not suffering the most poignant grief over their loss. We understand that A.D. Potter is now out on bail.  

Andrew Bacon of the town of Madison, died suddenly on the cars, on the Rome and Clinton Division of the D.L.&W. Railroad, on Friday morning last.  Just as the train was leaving the Hamilton station, Mr. Bacon, who had walked three miles through the rain to take the train, climbed the platform of a car, soaked and weary.  As he entered the car, a brakeman remarked to him; "You are wet through."  Mr. Bacon said "Yes" and immediately fell dead in the door of the car!  The train was under headway before it was evident that Mr. Bacon's body was lifeless. The remains were left at Bouckville where they were recovered by friends before noon. Deceased was seventy-nine years of age, and a farmer. 

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In Memoriam

the following announcement of the death of Superintendent Flint was made by J.G. Stevens, General Manager of the Midland Railroad, to the employees.

New York, Feb. 7, 1876:  It becomes my painful duty to announce to the employees of the N.Y.&O. Midland the death of the General Superintendent, Mr. H.M. Flint, who died on the 6th inst., from injuries received while in discharge of his duties.  The blow is so sudden, the loss so severe to one and all of us, that it is difficult to fully realize its full extent.  But a few days since he was with us, in the full flush of manhood, ardent, active, energetic; today he is struck down at his post.  As a man he was worthy of all regard. With a strict sense of justice, and of sturdy integrity, he could be relied upon in all emergencies.  Possessed of a warm heart and of most kindly feelings and sympathies, he won not only the respect but the affection of those with whom he was associated.  As a railroad officer he was most conscientious and zealous in the discharge of every duty.  His great executive powers, ripe experience, quick perceptions, enthusiasm of temper, sound judgment, always brought success to his efforts; a strict disciplinarian, he expected every man to do his duty, but was quick to recognize and appreciate the best efforts of those who tried to do their best.  He has passed away, but the influence of his character will long survive.  J.G. Stevens, General Manager.

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SMITH:  Suddenly, in Hamilton [Madison Co. NY], Feb. 9th, Rev. Erastus P. Smith, Aged 69 years, formerly of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY].

Rev. Erastus P. Smith, Rector of St. Thomas Church in Hamilton, died suddenly about noon on Wednesday of last week.  On the day previous he was in his usual health, and at tea he partook of some canned cherries.  About nine o'clock in the evening he was taken with a violent pain in the stomach, and it is supposed that the cherries must have fermented and caused his death.

Deceased was a son of the late Samuel A. Smith, one of the pioneers of the town of Guilford, in this County, who for many years was one of the most prominent and respected citizens of that town and who during his long life filled many offices of honor and trust. The son inherited the sterling qualities of his father and was also at various times placed in office by his townsmen. After the death of his father, Erastus gave up his farm for the ministry, locating at first in the northern part of the State, from whence he went west, where he remained for a few years, when he returned to this State, and took charge of the Episcopal Chruch in Hamilton.

In announcing his death, the Hamilton Republican says:  "Mr. Smith's loss will be deeply felt in this community.  He had, during his short residence amongst us, endeared himself to all who knew him.  He was of that peculiar quiet, happy disposition, that did not push an acquaintance so rapidly as some, but so far as he was known, his many virtues, genial temper, Christian spirit, and example, made him universally beloved.  His death is a great loss to St. Thomas' Chruch, will be mourned by the members of his own congregation and by those who have not sat under his ministry.  All regret his seemly untimely death, and all sympathize with his deeply afflicted family."

On Friday the remains reached this village, on the D.L.&W. Railroad, accompanied by a number of friends form Hamilton, and were escorted to their final resting place in Guilford, where funeral services were held on Saturday at the Episcopal Chruch, the last sad rites being largely attended by relatives and friends of the deceased.  His age was sixty-nine years.

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The funeral of the Rev. Erastus P. Smith who died after a short illness on the 9th inst. at Hamilton where he was located as pastor, took place in the Episcopal Church in our village, on the 12th, and was attended by a large concourse of relatives and former townsmen.  His remains were interred in the family grounds of our cemetery.  Mr. Smith was about 60 years of age and for upwards of sixty years a resident of our town, residing during the greater part of that time at Smiths' Corners, a mile north of our village, upon the farm which his father, the late Samuel A. Smith, first settled and where he died. During this time Mr. Smith occupied a prominent position before our people and was repeatedly placed in public positions of power and trust by his townsmen.  Upon the death of his father, he relinquished farming and shortly after entered the clerical profession, at first in the northern part of our State from whence he went to Whitewater, Wis. and from which place after a few years he returned to this State and was located at Hamilton. Though from circumstances, Mr. Smith was prevented until late in life from gratifying a literary desire, he early in life gave evidence in his numerous addresses and essays of ability of no mean degree.  Could his life of usefulness have been spared in the full vigor of health and mental faculties, a few years longer, his worth would have been more fully realized.  In his sudden death a large circle of relatives and friends is left to mourn his loss.

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Solemnly struck the funeral knell that has just been wafted on the gentle breeze, and we are in deep mourning.  The bright spirit of our young and beloved friend, Steward A Cook has been taken in the pride of his manhood and borne to the higher realm of eternity.

He had been employed to teach the winter term of the public school at South Otselic [Chenango Co. NY].  Being self-reliant, he not only honorably acquitted himself in all the arduous duties of a successful pedagogue, but in addition took up studies for his own benefit.  This additional work overtaxed his brain and persevering energies. For eight weeks he had withstood the over burdening pressure, but reluctantly yielded to the fatal consequence.

On Friday, he left his little family group of seventy and returned to his father's house, to seek a relief from the dangerous ills that beset him.  Skillful medical aid and the kind, punctual care and constant attention of his ardent friends and endearing relatives, wholly subdued the burning fever, and all apparent and visible difficulty was removed so that, the attending physician decided his presence unnecessary and every danger dispelled.

When all these alarming symptoms had been conquered, and all hope regenerated, he evidently was comfortably convalescent.  But the great terrors, which finally decided his fate, had not yet come. among the living, we know not the fatal hour or the moment that awaits us. When all is peace, joy and harmony around us, we are summoned, in the twinkle of the eye, and snatched from our earthly moorings.  He had arisen in the morning of his fated day, sensibly refreshed from his nightly slumber; was cheerful, conversant and happy, throughout the forenoon; was able to partake of the dainty refreshments prepared for him at midday; had returned to his bed chamber for a little rest where the messenger of death was in waiting, with shining weapon  for the fulfillment of his mission.  He divested himself of clothing in a few moments and had reclined easily upon his couch; in a moment more he was seized, and all the endearing ties that bound him to earth were severed.  The sad news came like a thunderbolt from the heavens in a clear sky, with crushing effect upon his friends and devastating the hearts of his relatives.

He was the second child of Alvin L. Cook of Lincklaen [Chenango Co. NY]; was born the 27th of May 1851, in said town; was twenty-four years, eight months and four days old on the first day of February inst. the day of his death.

Of late, in the great search for knowledge, he had applied himself to the unprecedented task of spelling and giving the definition of all the words in Webster's Abridged Dictionary; had succeeded as far as to the letter S.

His affable manner and courteous disposition, commensurate to his higher sensibilities, pre-requisite to a welcome of admission into the higher walks of society, guarded and safely protected his noble bearing, in all the responsible duties, wherever he was called, or whatever position he held.

By nature, he was abundantly stored with self-reliance and perseverance, consequently, was inured both to physical labor and intellectual work.  In the development of these, the evidence was remarkable in his every act and deed. the superior moral, intellectual and scientific qualifications, added to his noble attributes, were a sufficient guarantee to a future field of earthly usefulness.  But alas!  he must yield to the fiat of a Power that knows no resistance.

He was initiated into the fraternity of Masons, March 15th, 1873, in the twenty-first year of his age; was elected S.D., December 20th, same year; and elected S.W. December 25th, 1875.  Since the organization of the Lodge at this place, no member ever has made such rapid strides of advancement in securing a thorough knowledge of the important work, as did Mr. Cook.  His election to the highest gift of the order, says one is prima facia evidence of his superior powers.  In many instances he nobly filled the highest office in the Master's absence.

His remains were interred, February 3d, 1876 in the cemetery at South Otselic, under the auspices of his brethren, with the badge of mourning properly adjusted, and in conjunction with the relatives and other friends.

As he ever labored in this life, for the light of intelligence, so may his bright spirit pass through the pearly gates into an eternal paradise, there to learn the great signs and wonders in the broad immensity of the heavenly worlds, and ever continue to seek further light, in the approach of the Grand Master of the unbounded Universe.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, February 1876 (continued)

 Oxford Times, Oxford, NY, February 9, 1876

Marriages

CRANDALL - SMITH:  In West Davenport, Delaware Co. N.Y., Jan. 1st, by Rev. B.A. Russell, Mr. Christopher Crandall of Otego [Otsego Co. NY] to Miss Kate Smith of East Davenport.

BARNEY - NEVANS:  In West Davenport, N.Y. [Delaware Co.], Jan. 30th, by Rev. B.A. Russell, Mr. John Barney of Windsor, Broome Co. [NY] to Miss Frank Nevans of West Davenport.

Guilford, Chenango Co. NY:  Married in Grace Church, Philadelphia, Jan. 13th, by Rev. Dr. Suddards, Dr. P.G. Clark of Guilford and Miss Josephine Cameron of Philadelphia.  After a delightful southern trip, the happy Dr. and his lovely bride reached this place and were warmly welcomed by hosts of friends.  May the happy couple live long and prosper.

Death

BEMIS:  In Odell, Illinois, Ja. 6th, Mr. Amariah Bemis, aged 90 years.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, February 10, 1876

Marriages

At the residence of the bride's father in this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 8th, by Rev. J.H. Sage, Mr. Earlman V. Fernalld of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Frances Ellen [Fitch], daughter of Theodore H. Fitch.

At the residence of the bride's mother in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 5th, by Rev. W.H. Gavitt, Mr. Warren Hooper of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Alice D. Wiswell, of Greene.

Deaths

In this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 2d, Mr. Leverett Johnson aged 72 years.

In Smithville [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 1st, of diphtheria, Sarah Isabella [Casey], daughter of Bernard and Margret Casey, aged 13 years and 6 months.  

Bella suffered; yes she suffered; / No one ever suffered more. / Our hope that she is happy, / Where all sufferings there are o'er.

In Norwich [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 31st, Robert Edwin [Mackie] son of John P. Mackie, aged 5 years, 10 months and 19 days.

In Lisle [Broome Co. NY], Jan. 30th, Mrs. Betsey Fay Edwards, aged 81 years.

In Smithville Flats [Chenango Co. NY] Feb. 7th, Miss Susan Harrison aged about 74 years.

Nick Gifford of Spafford [Onondaga Co. NY], who was tried in this county a year ago last fall upon the charge of murdering his wife, died in Auburn prison, last Saturday.  It was charged that Gifford turned his wife out of doors in her night clothes on one of the coldest nights two years ago this winter, and she was found near the house of a neighbor the next morning dead.  Gifford was convicted of one of the lower degrees of manslaughter and sentenced to two years in prison and fined $500.  Cortland Democrat

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, February 12, 1876

Marriages

KIESLAND - JAQUAY:  At the Medbury House in this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 2d inst., by Rev. James Chambers Mr. Frederick Kiesland and Miss Olive Jaquay, both of North Brookfield [Madison Co. NY].

HAWKINS - HALL:  At the Medbury House in this village [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 9th inst. by Rev. James Chambers Mr. William Hawkins and Miss Ida Hall, both of Pittsfield [Otsego Co. NY].

Deaths

GAGER:  Suddenly at his residence in this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 1st inst. Mr. Bela Gager aged 60(?) years.

As we go to press, we learn that David Aylesworth an old and respected resident of the town of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] met with an accident which resulted in his death, early on Tuesday morning.  He had retired to an outhouse in the rear of his residence and was soon found in an unconscious condition in front of the building from which he had evidently fallen with a bad gash in his forehead, his nose broken and a pool of blood which had flowed from his wounds.  He was carried into the house and lived but a few minutes.  Union

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, February 12, 1876

Marriages

WHITNEY - ECKERSON:  At Schenevus N.Y. [Otsego Co.] Feb. 9th, 1876, by Rev. N.S. Reynolds, Amariah Whitney of Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY] to Miss Maartha Eckerson of Charlottsville, N.Y. [Schoharie Co.]

VAN DEUSEN - GRIDLEY:  At the M.E. Parsonage in Sidney Plains [Delaware Co. NY], Feb. 2d, 1876, by Rev. N.S. Reynolds Henry B. Van Deusen to Miss Hattie J. Gridley, both of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

STOCKWELL:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], on Thursday, Feb. 3d, 1876, Mrs. Sarah Stockwell, aged 63 years.

BALDWIN:  In Cleveland, Ohio, Jan. 27th, 1876, Mr. Samuel Baldwin of apoplexy, aged 82 years.

Mr. Baldwin was formerly a resident of Masonville,  N.Y. [Delaware Co.], and well acquainted with the older inhabitants of that town, he having joined the Presbyterian Church there 50 years ago.  Mr. B. was one of the few who formed the 1st Presbyterian Chruch of East Cleveland, now city of Cleveland, and an active member.  Mr. B. was a man well-liked and respected and held a number of offices of trust which duties he filled both honorably and faithfully.  Mrs. Baldwin who is surviving him is 81 years old.

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Died, in Guilford Centre [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 4th, Mr. Charles Godfrey, aged 69 years.  As the deceased was born, lived and died in this town, perhaps a short sketch of his life would not be out of place at this time:

Mr. Godfrey was born in the year 1807, on the farm adjoining the one on which he lived and died, and at a period when they had not the advantages of the present time.  He spent his early boyhood in toiling for his father to gain a substance from what was then an almost unbroken wilderness, instead of spending it in the college hall, as is the privilege of the present generation.  He united with the Congregational Chruch in this village in the year 1831 or 32.  He was a kind companion, an affectionate father and a good citizen, but now the cares and burdens of life are over, the labors anxieties and tumults of the age are past, and he sleeps peacefully in the little church yard near the lonely cottage whose cheerfulness he once enjoyed. We cannot wish him back on earth again "although the sorrowing heart oft sighs for the happy hours agone," for we trust he has gone to take possession of a better home in heaven.  A.J.Y.

Smyrna Citizen, Smyrna, NY, February 12, 1876

Death

WARNER:  In Sherburne [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 5th, Lottie A. [Warner] wife of Stephen Warner, and daughter of. Wm. G. Wilbur of this town [Smyrna, Chenango Co. NY], aged 28 years.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, February 1876 (continued)

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, February 10, 1876

Marriages

Delaware Co. NY:  There was a wedding last week at the house of Mr. D.B. Benedict, near the Ox Bow.  Flora [Benedict] his eighth and youngest daughter, was married to Mr. James A.  Holley, a promising young man of Walton [Delaware Co. NY].  there were present eight sons-in-law, and one daughter-in-law, which with Mr. Benedict's twelve children, made twenty-one children in all.

From the Aurora Beacon, we cut the following account of the Golden Wedding of our old-time friends, Mr. and Mr.s H. N. Champlin, formerly of Pitcher in this county [Chenango Co. NY].  Their many friends of that town as well as elsewhere will unit with us in extending congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. C.:

"At Kaneville, on Wednesday, the 19th inst. (Jan.), the children and some of the friends of Mr. and Mrs. H.N. Champlin assembled at their residence, it being the fiftieth anniversary of their wedding.  After a few preliminaries the presents were brought into the parlor and in a few well-chosen words by Rev. Jonas Woodward, on behalf of the children and friends were presented to the venerable pair.  Mr. C. responded in a brief speech, thanking his friends for the many tokens of their regard, and as such should ever prize them far above their intrinsic worth, valuable though they were.  He expressed his thankfulness and heartfelt gratitude to the God of Heaven for His abundant blessings and mercies which had attended him all the way through his long pilgrimage, and he hoped by the riches of God's grace to meet all his friends among the ransomed of the Lord on the Heavenly shore.  Soon after, the party were invited into the dining room where a richly laden and very tastefully arranged table awaited us, and we were all convinced by actual demonstration that Mrs. C. and her daughters had fully mastered the art of cooking.  The balance of the day and evening was spent in conversation and singing.  On the whole it was a very interesting and happy day to the family and friends.  Mr. C. came from Chenango County, N.Y. to this place something over nine years ago.

Deaths

ROBINSON:  In town of New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Sunday morning, Jan. 30, Frank J. [Robinson], only son of Wm. and Delilah Robinson, aged 10 yrs and 7 mos.

Thy spirit, dearest Frankie sped / On pinions light to heaven; / Oh may such grace on us be shed, / When to us the summon 's given.

ALDRICH:  In Fleetwell, Pa., Jan. 20, suddenly of congestion of the heart, George W. Aldrich of Plymouth, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], aged 73 years.

HALL:  In Plymouth, N.Y. [Chenango Co.], Jan. 23, 1876, Miss Susan Hall, aged 77 years, 8 months.

HUGGINS:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 259?), 1876, Frankie B. [Huggins], son of Samuel and Julia Huggins, aged 8 wks.

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"Blessed are the dead which die in the lord."

Entered into rest, at Fort Collins, Larimer County, Colorado, on Sunday evening, January 16, 1876.  Mrs. Hannah Yale, wife of Mr. Albert Yale, after an illness of some weeks, which she bore with Christian fortitude and resignation.  She was the daughter of John and Mary Miner, born in Guilford, Chenango County, N.Y., Aug. 22, 1831, aged 44 yrs, 4 months and 25 days.

Her remains were interred in the cemetery, Fort Collins, on the 18th.  The services were conducted by Rev. F. Byre, rector of St. Luke's Episcopal Church, when a large congregation was present and followed in solemn to the tomb.  She has left a bereaved husband and two daughters to mourn the loss of a fond mother and beloved wife.  She was a true and devoted member of the Episcopal church, and an affectionate and efficient teacher in the Sunday school. The scholars of her class, showing their appreciation of her worth and their loss, followed in a body to the grave.  Her labors of love in the interest of the church and Sunday school, were eminently undeputizable, as they were unostentatious and purely unselfish.  Her mildness of disposition and amiability of Christian humility, won for her the esteem of all with whom she became acquainted.  Her attachments to her neighbors and friends and her readiness to make herself useful in the community had secured the kind approbation of all who knew her.

Her departure from our midst has left a painful void in the family circle, in the church, and in the community.  But she has passed away from all earthly pain or sorrow, having taken a final and tender farewell of the loved ones, commending her loving and youthful daughters to the care and blessing of God, expressing the pious wish and prayerful hope that they would follow int he path of Christian duty and faithfulness in the church, which she had tried by the grace of God, to do, and to lead them to their loving Saviour.

Her last words, while conscious, were those of humble trust and unwavering confidence in God, through Christ, and of her acceptance at last through Him.

Thus our departed sister calmly and peacefully fell asleep in Jesus.  We do and will miss her.  (Larimer Cal. Express

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DIED:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 31, 1876, Mr. Joseph Russell Clark in the 79th year of his age.

The death of Mr. Clark demands more than a passing notice.  He was born in Middletown, Conn., July 31, 1797, but soon moved to Norfolk, Conn., where he lived until the age of 20, when he came to Guilford in 1817, and built a part of the house now standing simply "inclosing" it, using blankets for doors and sheets for windows, and has lived in it a period of 58 years.  The place was then an unbroken wilderness and travelers were guided in the path by marked trees.  He was married Jan. 25, 1824, and celebrated his golden wedding Jan. 25, 1874, his wife living nearly one year afterward.

He was the youngest of five children and the last one left, all living beyond the allotted time of life, whose ages at death were as follows:  87, 85, 84, 80, 78, all lived with the companions of their youth to old age except one, who buried her husband and married again   United with the Congregational church, August 1831, and has been a consistent active member of 44 years giving liberally for one of his means, not only for his particular church, but for benevolent objects in general.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, February 1876

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, February 10, 1876

Marriages

CROSS - SMITH:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 3d, by Rev. W.J. Judd, Mr. George W. Cross to Mrs. Libbie Smith, all of Norwich.

SHARPE - RICHMOND:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 2d, by Rev. J.C. Ward, Mr. Charles P. Sharpe of Mcdonough [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Hattie E. Richmond of Preston [Chenango Co. NY].

CLARK - CAMERON:  In Philadelphia, Jan. 13th, by Rev. W. Sudders, D.D. Dr. Paris G. Clark of Guilford [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Josephine B. Cameron of Philadelphia.

BARROWS - HARRIS:  In Monroeton [PA]  Jan. 17th, by Rev. R. Armstrong, Mr. Charles A. Barrows of East Pharsalia [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Debbie J. Harris of Burlington [Otsego Co. NY].

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Crystal Wedding:  One of those pleasant social events, which come once in a lifetime last Friday night fell to the happy lot of Rev. Mr. Haynes, pastor of the First Baptist Church.  It was the fifteenth anniversary of his wedded life, and was celebrated by a crystal wedding.

The evening was all that could be wished: moonlight, sleighing, and a "clear and nipping air."  At about seven o'clock the guests assembled at the parsonage and thronged the rooms till a late hour.

Mr. and Mrs. Haynes received their guests in the parlor.  Upon the wall, just back of the place where the fifteen-year-old bride and groom stood, hung a beautiful floral harp, over which circled the suggestive figures 1861.  To the south flashed one of the crystal presents, a magnificent mirror, a gift from the church; at the foot of which was placed a beautiful bouquet and vase, with the compliments of Rev. Mr. Scoville.

The remainder of the gifts were on exhibition in the study of the pastor.  they consisted of a set of monogrammatic cut glass goblets, ice cream dishes, celery dishes, etc. a crystal pickle dish mounted in silver, glass pitchers, paper weights, ink stand, and numerous other articles.  Two hundred and fifty dollars would be a low estimate of the value of the articles.  During the evening all present were served with choice refreshments.

During their stay among us, of two years and a half, Mr. and Mrs. Haynes have won a host of friends.  this pleasant gathering and the valuable gifts were but an expression of a regard which the worthy zeal of the recipients in all that pertains to the welfare of the community has merited.  We can only wish them joy, and a happy silver and golden wedding.

Deaths

PANGBURN:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 8th, Sarah Scott [Pangburn] wife of John Pangburn, aged 71 years 8 months and 22 days.  Funeral services at the M.E. Chruch, Thursday at 2 P.M.

TERWILLIGER:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], suddenly, Feb. 8th, Clarence P. Terwilliger aged 1 years and 8 months, son of A.J. Terwilliger.

SCHORN:  In this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 8th, Myrtle [Schorn], daughter of F.J. and Lottie E. Schorn, aged 3 months and 10 days.

AYLESWORTH:  In New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 8th, Mr. David Aylesworth, aged 84 years.

CADY:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 3d, Mr. Leonard Cady, aged 68 years.

GODFREY:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], Feb. 4th, Mr. Charles Godfrey, aged 69 years.

HOUCK:  In South New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 30th, Mr. Ephraim Houck, aged 85 years.

CHAFEE:  In Afton [Chenango Co. NY], Jan 28th, Mrs. Phila Chaffee widow of the late Ebenezer Chaffee, aged 74 years.

PEABODY:  In Bannock City, Montana, Dec. 9th, of consumption Mr. Benoni S. Peabody aged 44 years, formerly of Norwich [Chenango Co. NY].

COOK:  In Lincklaen, Feb. 1st, Mr. Steward A. Cook, aged 24 years 8 months and 4 days.

It is with sorrow that we announce the death of Steward A. Cook, noticed last week as being dangerously ill.  As one who has been for some time personally and intimately acquainted with Mr. Cook, we feel justified in saying there was no young man of this town more highly esteemed or universally beloved.  Having been associated with him in the school room, in business relations and in social intercourse, places where the daily life and habits of man are to be the best seen and studied, we learned to respect and love him as a brother, and while we extend to the relatives of the deceased, in behalf of the entire community our heartfelt sympathy in this great bereavement, we also wish with them to mourn his loss, to drop the silent tear upon his tomb.  His body was buried with Masonic honors on Thursday, South Otselic Lodge of which he was a prominent member, taking charge of the ceremonies.

In 1863, Daniel Salisbury of Cortland [Cortland Co. NY], then about twenty years of age, was convicted of murder, he having deliberately poisoned his young wife, who died a lingering and terrible death.  He was sentenced to be hanged, but by some means a commutation of his sentence was obtained, and he was sent to Auburn State Prison for life. When he found that he had escaped the gallows he confessed his guilt and glibly described the means by which he disposed of his unfortunate wife.  On Monday of last week, he died in prison, from congestion of the lungs.  His aged mother and a sister arrived at the prison hospital about half an hour before he died, but he was unconscious, and did not recognize them.  His remains were removed to Cortland for interment.

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Shocking Accident on the Midland

A frightful accident occurred on the Midland railroad about a mile south of Westfield Fats [Sullivan Co. NY] on Wednesday afternoon of last week, which resulted in the death of Superintendent Henry M. Flint and the injury of several others.  An engine with a snowplow attached started north from Middletown [Orange Co. NY] on Wednesday morning for the purpose of clearing the track of a light snow which had fallen during the night.  Upon the engine and plow were the following officers and employees of the road:  Superintendent H.M. Flint, Middletown; Roadmaster, John Babcock, Walton; Master Mechanic, John Minshull, Middletown; Conductor, N.R. Hankins, Middletown; Engineer, Wm. B. McCloud, Walton; Ed. Coney, Fireman, Middletown; E.J. Vaughan, Walton, and Geo. Geer, Middletown, brakemen.

About two o'clock in the afternoon the train reached the bridge which spans the Beaverkill, about a mile south of Westfield.  As it passed upon the bridge by some means the wheels of the snowplow left the track, and the sharp iron edge of the machine came in severe contact with the iron rods and timbers which reached from the side arch of the bridge above to the main timbers below and supported the structure.  These rods and timbers gave way before the force of the plow, and the bridge fell, carrying the engine and snowplow and all on board into the stream below, a distance of about twenty feet.  It was a frightful scene, the heavy snowplow and engine and the timbers of the bridge being jammed and mashed together in the bed of the stream.  Only one person escaped without injury.  Those on the engine were scalded by the steam, and the others were badly bruised. Superintendent Flint was very badly scalded about the hands and face and also in other portions of his body. The skin from his hands peeled off, and some of the nails from his fingers also came off.  Worst of all, he inhaled come of the scalding steam.  Engineer McCloud was scalded in the leg; fireman Cooney was also slightly scalded. Brakeman Vaughan had his shoulder dislocated and was otherwise bruised.  Mr. Minshull ad Mr. Babcock were slightly bruised. Conductor Hankins was also quite badly hurt. George Geer was the only one who escaped without injury.

Superintendent Flint was taken to the house of Mr. Bennett near the scene of the accident. the others, who were not so badly hurt, were taken by the train to their homes. The Superintendent was attended by the best medical aid, and up to Sunday last it was thought that he would recover.  But his case was more critical than was supposed.  He had inhaled the scalding steam, and this produced death.  He died at the house of Mr. Bennett about eight o'clock Sunday evening. All the others who were injured, so far as we hear, are doing well.

The accident is a serious and sad one, but no blame can attach to the officers or Company. The bridge was a good one but was cut down by the snowplow.  The same force would have caused a similar accident on any other bridge in the country of similar make. The Company have erected a trestle and trains are now running regularly. The bridge will be rebuilt without delay.

Superintendent Flint was a capable and popular officer, and by his prudence and care had done much to place the Midland on a paying basis.  He was liked by both officers and men, and his death is a severe loss to the company. His funeral will take place at Newburgh [Orange Co. NY] today (Wednesday).

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, February 1876 (continued)

 Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, February 3, 1876

Death

DIED:  Rev. Ray Woodmansee, Dec. 13th(?) 1875, aged 81 years 8 months 15 days.

The subject of this notice was born in Richmond, Washington County, Rhode Island, in the year 1794.  Was given license to exhort by the Reformed Methodist of Butternuts [Otsego Co. NY] in 1832; was ordained Elder by the same in 1837; then moving to New Berlin [Chenango Co. NY] in 1845 he united with the Free Baptist of Holmesville, of whom he was a worthy member until death.  He had been married twice, the first wife having six children, and also the last one six, of whom but two are living to comfort their mother.

For several years past he had preached only occasionally, and at funerals, by reason of declining health.  His life was a sermon every day, gentle, unassuming, kind and affectionate to all, thereby winning the love of all who knew him, and without exception, living an exemplary life, that no one need fear to follow, and dying as he had lived, in perfect peace with God and in the triumphs of living faith.  He was too well beloved by all to be soon forgotten.  His funeral sermon was preached at the Holmesville church to a large assembly by W.H. Waldron, of Norwich.

Chenango American, Greene, NY, February 3, 1876

Marriages

In Unadilla [Otsego Co. NY], Jan. 26, by Rev. T.P. Halstead, Mr. George D. Gould of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Jennie Maddon, of Franklin, N.Y. [Delaware Co. NY].

At the residence of Mr. Luther Wedge, Jan. 25, by Rev. W.H. Gavitt, Mr. Rufus H. Porter to Miss Hattie E. [Haight] daughter of Mr. John Haight, all of Greene [Chenango Co. NY].

At the Congregational Church in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 30, by the Rev. A.B. Dilley, Mr. Charles E. Ecob of Nineveh, N.Y. [Broome Co.] and Miss Lydia Winston, of Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY].

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At the residence of the bride's parents, in this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], on Thursday afternoon, Jan'y 21, by Rev. Dr. J.V. VanIngen, of Rochester, Mr. James A. Harrison of this village to Miss Ida V. [Jackson] only daughter fo E.B. Jackson, Esq.

On Thursday afternoon last, many relatives and a few friends of Mr. and Mrs. E.B. Jackson, assembled at their residence to witness the marriage of their only daughter, Miss Ida, to Mr. James A. Harrison, a young gentleman well and favorably known in this vicinity.  Preparations on a grand and magnificent scale had been made, and all that a devoted father and a loving mother could do had been arranged for properly celebrating the event.

For some time previous to "the event" occurring, the friends of the family wandered around the spacious parlors in pleasant and social intercourse and groups were intently gazing most of the time at the very large array of beautiful and costly presents that were spread before them, that friends had given as tokens of love to the young bride. We will not enumerate them but suffice it to say that we know of no young lady that has been married in our village in many years that can boast of as many tokens of friendship as those furnished on this occasion.

The happy hour finally arrived when the loving twain were to be united, and the approach of the bridal party was the signal for attention.  A large and beautiful evergreen arch had been erected near the bay window and under it the happy couple were made man and wife, through the solemn and impressive marriage service of the Episcopal Church, delivered by the venerable Dr. Van Ingen.

The "knot" being tied, the bridal party received the hearty congratulations of friends and after a princely spread of the choicest viands the market could afford and warm wishes for their future happiness, Mr. and Mrs. Harrison took their departure for the 5:31 train going North to visit New York and other points of interest.

Thus ended a pleasant and happy wedding celebration.  May the two united under so auspicious circumstances live to honor and cherish each other many years and be a comfort and consolation to their parents and many friends, all of whom wish them a pleasant and prosperous voyage through life and a sweet and happy reunion "beyond the river!"

Deaths

In Triangle [Broome Co. NY], Jan. 22d, Mr. John D. Black of McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], in the 68th year of his age.

In Triangle [Broome Co. NY], Jan. 20, Ida [Hollis], daughter of A.D. and Lucy Hollis, aged 10 years, 10 months.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, February 5, 1876

Deaths

METLER:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], January 30, 1876, Mary Metler, daughter of Nicklas and Mary Metler, aged 8 years and 9 months.

WATERHOUSE:  In this town [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY], on the 21st ult.  Mrs. Charlotte Waterhouse, wife of Richard Waterhouse, aged 70 years.

New Berlin, Chenango Co. NY:  On Tuesday last S.W. Smith met his death in the following singular manner.  He was uncle to and for the past five years made his home with William Smith, on the Great Brook.  On the day mentioned in company with William he went to the woods for the purpose of drawing out hop poles, and was riding upon the bob sled, when William jumped off and ran a short distance to pick out the road and had not been gone over two minutes, when returning he found his uncle with his head doubled down upon his breast under the sled, the team having stopped.  William pulled the sled over and got his uncle out, and bathed his head with water, but with the exception of one or two gasps, he showed no signs of life.  Upon examination it was found that his neck was broken.  He was 68 years of age.  How he came to get under the sled or in what manner his neck was broken is a mystery as there was not a scratch or mark upon the body.  Gazette

Smyrna Citizen, Smyrna, NY, February 5, 1876

Deaths

CROSS:  In Hamilton [Madison Co. NY], feb. 3rd, Theodore [Cross] only son of Rev. and Mr.s R.T. Cross, aged 4 years.

We have received a note announcing the death, in Mansfield, Ohio, of Mrs. Sarah Percival, widow of James Percival, at the age of 81 years and 6 months.  Mrs. P. was a step-daughter of Eleazer Lathrop, a pioneer and former resident of this village [Smyrna, Chenango Co. NY].

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, February 1876

 Chenango Union, Norwich, NY, February 3, 1876

Marriages

HAZEN - KEELER:  In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], Jan. 26th, by Rev. A. Griffin, Mr. Walter Hazen of Coventry [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Addie A. Keeler of Binghamton.

ROGERS - ADAMS:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 12th by Rev. J.C. Ward, Mr. Hubert L. Rogers of Preston [Chenango Co. NY] to Miss Jennie L. Adams of Smithville [Chenango Co. NY].

Deaths

OLDS:  In Oxford [Chenango Co, NY] Jan. 25th Mrs. Martha Olds widow of the late Ezekiel Olds, aged 95 years.

Mrs. Martha Olds, the widow of the late Ezekiel Olds, died in Oxford, January 25th, aged ninety-five years. Deceased, with her husband, came to Oxford when she was seventeen years old, from Berkshire, Mass., they traveling with an ox team and settled near the farm of Luman McNeil in Oxford.  Soon after, the family occupied the farm on which she remained until her death.  Mrs. Olds was the mother of seven children, four of whom survive her. She was much esteemed by a large circle of acquaintances and her funeral was attended by a number of relatives and friends, many of whom had been her associates in years past, and who met to pay the last tribute to the memory of one who in life was beloved and in death is not forgotten.

HARROTT:  In Oxford [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 27th, Jessie [Harrott] twin daughter of Thomas and Sarrah Harrott aged 6 months.

LANDERGIN:  In East McDonough [Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 25th, Mrs. Alice Landergin, aged 58 years.

SCOTT:  In Chicago, Jan. 13th, of scarlet fever Herbert W. [Scott] son of Henry C. and Lovica Scott, aged 2 years, 6 month and 14 days.

Another sinless one has gone / To the arms of the Heavenly Giver, / From ours too weak to hold it here. / But we'll meet beyond the river. 

Letters from California announce the death at Napa Caty on the 16th of January last, of Edwin Miller, of that place. Deceased was a former resident of Plymouth, in this County [Chenango Co. NY], and left for the "gold diggings" among the early adventurers to California, nearly thirty years ago.  A few years since he visited his friends in this County, after which he returned to the home of his adoption where so many of his earlier years had been passed, and where his life was closed after a brief illness.

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MACKIE:  Drowned in this village [Norwich, Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 31st, Robert Edwin [Mackie] son of John T. Mackie, aged 5 years 10 months and 19 days.  Funeral from the residence of his parents, on Thursday February 3d at 2 P.M.

Little Eddie Mackie, aged nearly six years, son of John T. Mackie, Superintendent on the Midland Railroad, was drowned in the canal in this village on Monday afternoon last.  He had been playing with an older brother and other companions, on the ice near Mitchell Street bridge, they amusing themselves by sliding upon a sled; but he was left alone by his playmates and between three and four o'clock was missing.  A lad in the vicinity stated that he saw him sliding with his sled, upon which he went into an opening in the ice, under the bridge.  Search was at once commenced by sympathizing neighbors and friends, boats, hooks, rakes and torches procured, and amidst the floating ice which had been broken the search was kept up until after midnight, but was unsuccessful.  The sled with which the lad had been playing, was found about six o'clock.  Next morning search was resumed and near eight o'clock the body of the drowned boy was found several rods below the bridge, near the lock at the hammer factory. The afflicted parents have the sympathies of the community, in their bereavement.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, Feb. 3, 1875:  On Monday afternoon last, our citizens were alarmed by the report that little Eddie, son of Superintendent Mackie of the Midland R.R. had slid through the ice into the canal.  On repairing to the place, we found the story was too true. A large crowd had collected and even then, the search for the poor boy was going on.

The particulars, as far as they can be learned, are as follows:  Little Eddie was playing upon the ice near Mitchell Street bridge with his older brother and some other boys and for some reason the others became separated from him so that he was alone upon the ice for a short time.  He had not been missed however but an exceedingly short time before the alarm was given, and the search for him commenced. A little boy who had been with him saw him slide through the ice and pointed out the locality where it occurred.  Ice breakers were improvised, and a boat procured, and the search began in earnest, though each looker on was filled with the hope that the report was unfounded, and that the boy would yet be found at some of the neighbors or elsewhere.  About six o'clock, however, all hope was lost by finding the sled at a point about three rods below the bridge. The search was continued until a late hour when from sheer exhaustion of those engaged in it, it was abandoned for the night.  On Tuesday morning however, search was resumed for the boy, the water having been drawn off during the night and it was found about nine o'clock at a point about two rods above the lock and some ten or fifteen rods below the point where the accident occurred. Alva Morton and Harvey Cozier found it and soon restored it to its heart-stricken parents.

Little Eddie is spoken of by all who knew him as a remarkably bright and active boy, and his untimely end is a source of regret to all.  Mr. and Mrs. Mackie have resided in our village but a short time; long enough however to attach many friends to them, who sympathize with them deeply in their great affliction.  The funeral of the little unfortunate will be attended from his father's residence on Mitchell Street today (Thursday) at two o'clock P.M.

The following card has been handed us for publication:  Norwich, Feb. 1st, 1876:  To the Editors of the Telegraph:  Dear Sirs:  I would like, through your columns, to express my heartfelt thanks to those friends who so earnestly and untiringly assisted in recovering the body of my poor boy.  May God reward them.  Yours sincerely, John F. Mackie.

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Greene, Chenango Co. NY:  The funeral of Dr. Rogers was largely attended on Wednesday of last week.  Utica, Waterville, Sherburne, Norwich, Oxford, Binghamton, and other towns in this vicinity were represented.  We do not remember of a funeral in our time when so many people from abroad attended to mourn with those who mourn.

Dr. Rogers was largely acquainted with the people of this valley, and many came to pay the last sad tribute to a departed and loved friend. A large number of the clergy were present, and participated in the last sad rites over their beloved brother's remains.

The sermon at the Church, a beautiful and touching production, was delivered by Dr. VanDusen, of Utica, who was been a lifelong friend of the honored dead.

The Church was heavily draped in black, the casket was covered with rare and beautiful flowers, love offerings of friends here and abroad.

Zion Church was crowded with mourners.  In this case the mourners were not confined to the family, for all who knew Dr. Rogers were glad to testify their sympathy and express their grief for the loss of the Christian soldier.

His body was borne from the Church and followed to the grave by a large number of sympathizing friends.

Chenango Telegraph, Norwich, NY, February 3, 1876

Marriage

A large wedding party gathered at Oliver Willard's farm on the 27th of January, 6 P.M. to witness the marriage ceremony performed by Rev. Dr. Ely of this place on Mr. A.D. McDonald and Miss Rosie Willard, daughter of Oliver.  The presents received by the bride were not only numerous (there were thirty-nine of them) but also very valuable. Quite a large collection of silver and household utensils were presented, and we were made aware that in this Centennial year our young people count upon a home life.  Would that boarding life be an institution of the past after this new epoch in our national history.  Mr. and Mrs. McDonald are certainly deserving our compliment for their sensible resolution to act out at once as proprietors of a good farm home. Many, many merry feasts to them and theirs.

Deaths

CLARK:  In Guilford [Chenango Co. NY], on the morning of Jan. 18, 1876, Mr. Joseph Russell Clark int he 79th year of his age.

Unadilla Valley [Otsego Co. NY]:  Arthur Graves, only son of Rev. A.S. Graves, a young man of brilliant promise, belonging to the class of '76, Cazenovia Sem. died at the Seminary, Jan. 30th of typhoid fever, induced by excessive study and insufficient exercise. The seminary is plunged into deepest mourning, for Arthur was a universal favorite.

Hon Charles Hathaway died at Delhi [Delaware Co. NY], on Friday, Jan. 21st, aged nearly 80 years.  He came to Delaware County about the year 1808.  He was appointed County Judge and Surrogate of Delaware County by Gov. Seward in 1840, and whatever position he has filled has been characterized by honesty, integrity and public spirit.  In the local affairs of Delhi, he took a lively interest and has left several monuments to his zeal in this direction.  In politics he was an ardent, progressive Whig and naturally became a Republican when that party was formed.

The death of Mrs. Foot removes from Cooperstown [Otsego Co. NY], another of their oldest, native-born citizens.  Mrs. Foot was the oldest daughter of Isaac Cooper, and one of the oldest grandchildren of Judge Cooper, the founder of Cooperstown.  She was seventy years old and was the widow of Surgeon Foot, U.S.A.

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The following "minute" was adopted by the Vestry and Wardens of Zion's Church, Greene [Chenango Co. NY], at a meeting held Jan. 22, 1876:

The Rev. Ferdinand Rogers, D.D., Rector of Zion Church, Greene, Central New York, died suddenly in his 61st year, on Monday evening, January 17th, 1876, while on his way home by Railroad, with his wife and many friends, from Norwich, where he had officiated by exchange in the new church on the previous Sunday.  His sermon at night was on the text:  "the poor have the Gospel preached to them."

Dr. Rogers came to this parish as its chosen Rector, Oct. 1st, 1846, and has gone in and out among us, as our Pastor, for all these nine and twenty years and now lies buried in our village cemetery, beside those of his children who were called home before him.

To a large portion of our congregation, he was all the Pastor they ever knew and to them he must ever remain the embodiment of the idea of priest, and counsellor, and friend.

He came to a parish to which the passion for change was as unknown as it was unwelcome.  He found a people intelligently grounded in the faith and practice of Churchly Christians and he soon proved to all that pastor and people owned a common rule and common standard.  In that he labored successfully to build them up and in it to train up their children, who loved him and will revere his memory.

A generation has passed away since he came to us and another has come up to take their places, a precious legacy to his successor.

The simple facts of the harmony and steady wholesome growth of the parish during this long pastorate, of the happy influence of its life under his ministration and administration, upon the respect and reverence for religion in the whole scene of his ministry, and of the general grief and sorrow of which his departure called out so many and marked expressions, these may well stand instead of labored eulogy and of that analysis of qualities which better befits the pens of his brethren in the sacred ministry, in whose respect and affection he held so high a place.

To the bereaved widow of our departed Pastor, and to his sorrowing children, this Vestry sends assurances of earnest sympathy in this new sorrow, of thanks to God for the legacy of the good example bequeathed to them, and, in it, the privileged inheritance of the promises which the God and Father of us all has pledged to good men's children who "know the God of their fathers."

In the hearts and homes of this parish they will always find a welcome and warm sympathy in what awaits or shall befall them in the new future so suddenly opened up before them.

F.E. Barnard, F. Juliand: Wardens, W.F. Russell, Clerk.

Vital Records, Chenango County, NY, January 1876 (concluded)

 Chenango American, Greene, NY, January 27, 1876

Marriage

Messr. Editors:  One of the cheeriest gatherings it has been out good fortune to attend, assembled at the house of Mr. Elijah T. Hayes of this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], on Tuesday afternoon, Jan'y 18, to assist him and his worthy wife in celebrating their Golden Wedding. The roads were more than muddy and the rain poured steadily, a goodly company gathered there, numbering about fifty, if we include Mr. Hayes and his family.

At half past two Mr. and Mrs. Hayes entered the room, preceded by Rev. W.H. Gavitt of the Methodist church and took their seats with Mr. and Mrs. David Wedge as groomsman and bridesmaid.  The exercises of the afternoon began with singing the hymn "Thus far the Lord hath led me on."  Prayer was then offered by Bro. Gavitt after w hich was sung, "Shall we gather at the river."  Dr. Muaro then read selections from a poem written for a Golden Wedding a number of years ago.  It described the morning, noon and eventide of life, with their joys, duties and rest from labor, and ocntained this beautiful refrence to the bride and groom:

Just fifty years ago their vows were heard / By wedding guests as witnesses, and still / They bind these hearts as one.  Each is preferred / In love, which has not failed, nor ever will.

Today they come before us to renew / The vows which half a century they've kept; / And we are called as witnesses, for few / If any, of the former, have not slept.

God spare these Golden Bridal friends for years; / But when the closing scenes of life shall come / May heavenly visions dissipate all fears, / And guardian angels kindly guide them home.

Mr. Gavitt followed with a few remarks linking the past with the present, the ceremony of fifty years ago with its anniversary today, the faith plighted then with its renewal now; in token of which the aged couple joined hands and the solemn ceremonial was uttered:  "Those whom God hath joined together, let no man put asunder."

Mr. Charles Gray read an original poem to which he gave no name, but which he thought might appropriately be called "Fifty Years Ago."

Mr. Samuel O. Wathan congratulated the bridal pair on their fifty years of wedded life, the measure of health they had enjoyed, the presence of children and grandchildren; and the numberless other blessings that had been scattered along their pathway. The grand, old doxology, "Praise God from whom all blessings flow," was sung by all, standing, closing a simple but interesting order of exercises.

A short hour was given to social intercourse, during which busy hands spread the table bountifully (for none came empty handed) and a substantial supper with tea and coffee was handed round, garnished with much merry chat.  The party broke up soon after supper, each heartily exchanging congratulations with the others, that the rain and mud had been braved; for the afternoon had been most delightfully spent.

The visit was not without some solid benefit to our good friends, certain contributions of provisions, and a small sum of money being left behind.  Some friends who were unable to be present, sent their offerings by those who were, and others have signified their intention of doing so speedily. We heard of one gentleman who received a merited scolding from his wife for forgetting to notify her of the party, until it was too late to attend, but he repaired his error, as far as he could by a very generous donation.

So passed an unusually enjoyable occasion, with nothing of any kind to mar its pleasure, and we dare venture the prophesy that its memory will be long in fading from the hearts of both visited and visitors.  

Yours.  M.R.S.

Deaths

At the residence of Mr. E.A. Trowbridge, i n this town [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], Jan. 19th, Mr. Edward Bissell, late Purser of the U.S. Navy, aged 67 years.

In Union, N.Y. [Broome Co.] Jan. 18th, Harry G. [Kelly] son of Prof. John and Belle M. Kelly, formerly of this village [Greene, Chenango Co. NY], aged 14 months.

In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], Dec. 5th, Mrs. Lucius Knight aged 67 years, formerly of Oxford [Chenango Co. NY].

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, January 15, 1876

Marriage

The fifteenth anniversary of the wedding of Mr. and Mrs. C.E. Loomis was made the occasion of a pleasant gathering at their home on the first inst.  Notwithstanding the unfavorable traveling, with mud and threatened rain, some sixty neighbors and friends of the happy couple convened in the afternoon of the first day of the centennial year of our American Independence, to congratulate their friends on their success in life.  In token of their regards, we noticed a table laden with presents, some of which were both valuable and handsome. Beautiful flower vases, a great variety of glass table ware, toilet sets, etc. including a set of essence decanters by Dr. Vanwagner of Brookfield, a broken fruit can by E.S. Lyman, also a set of silverware from father F. Finks, and a large table which by the way was well filled with choice dainties to which the hungry company did ample justice.  The oldest inhabitants of the neighborhood cannot remember the time when a gathering of the kind, so full of interest and pleasure, had taken place in the vicinity.  When reluctantly the happy company took their leave it was with many good wishes and expressions of desire that the future might be even brighter than the past.

Death

The remains of Mr. Albert Lobdell who died at Aylmer, Canada, on the 6th inst. arrived at this place [Sherburne, Chenango Co. NY] last Saturday morning.  They were received at the depot by Sherburne Lodge F.&A.M. and escorted to the residence of Mr. Stephen Lobdell who is a half-brother of deceased.  At 1 o'clock P.M., a procession of Masons and citizens was formed, and the remains were transferred to the church, where services were held, after which they were consigned to the grave with impressive ceremonies of the Masonic Order.  The deceased was formerly a member of Sherburne Lodge, having resided here until about six years ago when he removed to Aylmer and united with the Lodge at that place. During his residence there he had been engaged in dealing in hops and real estate with considerable success and was much esteemed as a citizen and Mason.  His daughter, Mrs. William Miller went to Canada sometime since to be with him in his illness and was herself attacked and unable to accompany the remains home.  The age of Mr. Lobdell was 56 years.

Sherburne News, Sherburne, NY, January 29, 1876

Marriages

HOLDEN - BENTLEY:  At Sherburne Four Corners [Chenango Co. NY], January 19, 1876, by Rev. Samuel Miller, at the residence of the bride's parents, Stephen Holden of Sherburne, N.Y. to Elizabeth [Bentley] daughter of Mr. Milton Bentley.

DENNISON - BLOOR:  In Saginaw City, Mich. January 19, 1876, at the residence of the bride's father, by Rev. Thomas Stalker, Mr. Devillo Dennison and Miss Jennie Bloor, both of Saginaw City.

SHAW - POMEROY:  In Binghamton [Broome Co. NY], Jan. 20 by Rev. Dr. Paddock, assisted by Rev. H. Griffin, Mr. Samuel H. Shaw, of St. Thomas, Canada, and Miss Ida l. Pomeroy, of Philadelphia.

The Binghamton Republican of Thursday evening gives the following:  "A very pleasant affair took place at the residence of the ex-Alderman Lowell Harding, on Court Street this afternoon.  Mr. Samuel H. Shaw of St. Thomas, Canada, was married to Miss Ida L. Pomeroy, daughter of Dr. Pomeroy of Philadelphia and a niece of Mrs. Lowell Harding.  The spacious rooms of the house were elegantly trimmed with evergreens and flowers and a large number of friends and relations assembled to witness the ceremony which was performed in a very impressive and touching manner by Rev. Dr. Paddock, assisted yb Rev. A.L. Griffin.  Many of the company were deeply affected by Dr. Paddock's remarks and the appropriate prayer which followed the ceremony. The bride and groom stood under an arch formed of evergreens and the American flag draped above them in memory of the Centennial year.  After the ceremony followed a season of handshaking and congratulations.  All present were introduced to the happy couple, and all present wished them a prosperous and useful life. The interest of the occasion was greatly increased by the presence of Mr. and Mrs. Ells, relations of the parties.  Each of whom is over 90 years of age. Refreshments were served after the wedding and some time spent in dancing. The newly married couple left on the five o'clock train for Utica, on their wedding trip. The best wishes of their many friends go with them, and they will be always welcome in this city, where they have made themselves generally loved and respected. A number of handsome and useful presents were displayed, which had been given as the testimonials of the love of friends and relatives.  It is seldom that a young couple start out in life with so many tokens of kindly remembrance as did the two who this afternoon were united in the strong, yet pleasant bonds of marriage."

Mr. Shaw was a Sherburne boy, and with his bride and a number of friends has been visiting his mother and many old friends in this vicinity, who have availed themselves of the opportunity to welcome and extend their hearty congratulations to their former townsman. The happy pair departed for St. Thomas, their future home, on Friday morning, bearing with them numerous tokens of esteem and the best wishes of numerous circle foo acquaintances.

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, January 15, 1876

Marriage

MERVILLE - MAYO:  In Bainbridge [Chenango Co. NY], by Rev. D.C. Haynes, Mr. Christopher S. Mervilel of Harpursville [Broome Co. NY], to Miss Ida R. Mayo of Windsor [Broome Co. NY].

Bainbridge Republican, Bainbridge, NY, January 29, 1876

News Item

Mr. Charles Lyon of this town [Bainbridge, Chenango Co. NY], who is now in his ninety-second year, and one of the first settlers here, and by the last enumerator said to be the oldest man in town; cuts his own wood, gets it in, builds his own fires (he uses a fire place) and takes the sole care of six head of cattle and so far this winter he has not missed a single day.

Smyrna Citizen, Smyrna, NY, January 29, 1876

Death

CAMPBELL:  In Lebanon [Madison Co. NY], Jan. 23rd, Mr. Campbell, aged 85 years.