Sunday, February 21, 2016

REUNION OF CIVIL WAR SOLDIERS AND SAILORS AND TOWN REPORTS


 

The Cortland Democrat, Friday, August 28, 1891.

Reunion of Soldiers and Sailors.
   The fourth annual summer meeting of the Soldiers and Sailors' Association of Cortland county was held at Little York on Saturday last, Aug. 23d. The attendance in the fore part of the day was quite small, and to the few who went there by the morning train from the south, it seemed for a time as though the meeting must be pretty nearly a failure. But later in the day a goodly number of the old comrades came in by private conveyance, bringing their families with them, and by 2 o'clock in the afternoon an audience of nearly or quite two hundred persons was assembled under the shade of the willow trees upon the bank of the lake.
   In the absence of the president of the association vice-president F. D. Carpenter, of Homer, called the meeting to order, and called upon several of the comrades to address the people who had assembled to see and hear the old soldiers. Comrades F. T. Newcomb, J. C. Atwater, J. R. Miller, L. P. Norton and J. A. Robinson, each made a little talk or told a story of their army experiences which held the attention of, and seemed to interest the audience for about an hour.
   At this point the secretary of the association, C. O. Newton, introduced a little lad, Master Eddie Bates of Homer, a grandson of the man who went out as chief musician of the 157th Reg't, and he played "Marching Through Georgia" in a style that thrilled and delighted the assemblage.
   After this the Rev. Dr. Edward Hitchcock, of Philadelphia, who had come in from his summer residence near by, consented to address the meeting and made a very appropriate and pleasing little speech that brought the speech-making to a fitting and felicitous close.
   On the whole, considering the delightful day and pleasant scenery, all voted it about the most enjoyable meeting of the kind that the association has ever held.

TOWN REPORTS.
LITTLE YORK.
   H. C. Goodwin, the historian, made the family of S. D. Perkins a pleasant call Monday evening. He shortly will return to his home at Alfred.
   A stranger appeared at the home of "Aut" Wright Monday evening—a boy weighing nine pounds. Dr. R. A. Goodell is usually around on these occasions.
   Miss Fannie Hoffman has been engaged for the primary department of the Preble school. Miss Alexander is to teach school at this place. Both are of the recent graduates of the Cortland Normal.
   Last Tuesday was the birthday of A. B. Raymond. The little kids among his boarders without any consultation chipped in to make him a present. The boys bought him a cup and saucer while the girls got him a crochet needle and spool of thread. There was fun in the speech of acceptance.
   The latest fad in picnic was put in practical operation on the Raymond grounds last Tuesday by a party from McGrawville. They arrived about 7 P. M., and all took the boats. At 12 M. (midnight) the horn sounded "peas on a trencher" and they sat down to as well spread tables as have graced the grounds this year. Most ample justice was done the lay out, after which they silently departed.
   Last Saturday was the Soldiers' day at the picnic grounds, but less than half the expected number put in an appearance. When we reached the grounds Chaplain Robinson of Cortland was holding the fort. After him Rev. Hitchcock of Homer and Philadelphia gave us a string. He had been elected an honorary G. A. R. last year because he had put in a substitute who fought, &c. There was a member of the old 12th from Michigan. Edward Scott of Rawlins Post, Stockton, Cal., was present. L. P. Norton was there and on request showed up his medal—one of the thousand specials presented by Congress for acts of bravery. He was too modest to wear it on his coat. The 10th Cavalry in which he served got three of them. We just missed meeting our old time friend, Lieut. Birdlebough, by his taking the early train for home. No such occasion is quite filled out unless Judge Smith is present. C. O. Newton gave us a specimen of the dignity with which he could fill a chair in the Legislature provided he gets the nomination. There were enough aspirants present to fill every county office—but the stay at home always get the cake. Many remarked on the beauty and cleanliness of the ground—saying, "this is the best place for a picnic that we have struck yet." But the coolness of the grounds was as nothing compared to the citizens. There was but one flag hung out except upon the Raymond House and grounds which were beautifully decorated. We most cordially invite the "boys" to come again next year.
    ULI SLICK. [pen name of local correspondent.]


SCOTT.
   Quite a number from here intend to go to Borodino to hear Mead and the Silver Lake Quartette this week.
   The old saying is that "blood will tell," and it is now proved true for our butcher, C. M. Maxson, is blessed with an heir; a girl baby.
   Mrs. Jerry Cottrell and her sister Sally attended a picnic in Sempronius the other day driving their own horse. In attempting to hitch up for home the animal became quite fractious and they left the horse and came home with a Mr. Courtright. Mr. Cottrell then started for the horse and carriage which he got, but he got thrown out of the carriage also and thrown quite a distance, fetching up against a snag at last and demolishing the thills and carriage top. Mr. Cottrell was unhurt.
   A little fun at the Republican caucus here. Dr. Babcock was chosen chairman. Before electing a secretary our brilliant attorney nominated two persons for tellers. Objection was made that it was out of order, that the secretary should be selected first and the chairman ruled the objection well taken. But the attorney had on a big head and declared that it was a Republican caucus and anything was in order. The chairman probably saw the condition of the attorney and doubtless thought the easiest way to get along with the matter gave way and the boss triumphed. Then afterward he was called upon to swear in the officers, but he made a botch job of it and it was declared by the chair to be incorrect and of no effect, so a gentleman near assisted him in another attempt and it was considered a go. D. K. Cutler was given the privilege of choosing the delegates to the county convention and M. G. Frisbie was chosen to the Senatorial convention and instructed to vote for R. T. Peck.


EAST HOMER.
   The berry pickers harvest is on.
   A few from this place will go to the hop fields at Bouckville, this week.
   Mrs. Lewis Knapp, of Weedsport, is visiting friends here the present week.
   Mrs. Ed. Knapp, of Homer, visited her mother, Mrs. Ann Rose, the past week.
   Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Briggs attended the Gates' family picnic at Floral park last week.
   Rev. W. H. Robertson exchanged pulpits with Rev. Mr. Barnes, of Taylor, Sunday last.
   Dr. Frank Hoag, of Grand Rapids, Mich., made a pleasant call at E. R. Briggs, Sunday last.
   Mr. Sylvanus Smith, of Freetown, visited his daughter, Mrs. W. H. Robertson, the past week.
   Mrs. Robert Jackson, of Newark Valley, has been visiting relatives in this place for a few days past.
   Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Peek, of Homer, have been spending a few days with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Amos Davenport.
   Mrs. John Rose, who has been rusticating at this place for the past six weeks, returned to her home in Scranton last Saturday.
   The East Homer B. B. Club crossed bats with the McLean boys at the latter place Saturday last. The result was 18 to 14 in favor of East Homer.
   UNCLE SI.

McGRAWVILLE.
   Rollin Eastman of Cortland visited his son Frank over Sunday.
   Mrs. Ella Clark of Fabius is visiting her mother, Mrs. Gretta Galpin.
   Rev. U. S. Beebe preached at the Presbyterian church on Sunday evening.
   Dr. Frank Hoag of Grand Rapids, Mich., is visiting his father and brother in this place.
   Miss Dora Monroe and sister of Binghamton are visiting their aunt, Miss Helen Monroe.
   Prof. George Bailey of Etna has moved into the house formerly owned and occupied by D. I. Brownell.
   Mrs. Annie Martin of New York and Hattie Richardson of Marathon are the guests of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Martin.
   Mr. and Mrs. George Gale of Galeton, Pa., arrived in town last week and are visiting Mrs. Gale's parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Ensign.
   The M. E. Sunday-school of this place joined with the Sunday-school of Blodgett Mills and held a picnic at Tully lake on Tuesday.
   Henry Owens, who has been confined to the house with heart disease during the spring and summer, is gradually failing.
   The fall term of the McGrawville Union School will commence on Monday, Aug. 31, with Prof. George Bailey as principal; Miss Fannie Van Buskirk, intermediate, and Miss Lovell in the primary department.
   NEPOS.

HARFORD MILLS.
   Mr. John O. Reid of Cortland was in town on Monday last.
   Mr. Wm. Stacy shipped another load of stock on Tuesday last.
   Mr. Wallace Parker has received a [civil war service] pension of six dollars a month.
   Charles Pitts and family of Syracuse, visited his brother Al. last week.
   John Bailey of Cortland was in town on Sunday last visiting his son Stanley.
   Elder Basford and wife of Pennsylvania have been visiting her parents last week.
   Ben Decker, who has been living in Mrs. Moffat's house, has moved back to his own home.
   Mr. Leach Gardner of Virgil was in town on Friday last looking after hogs and calves.
   Miss Coleman of Tioga Centre has been visiting at her uncle's James Hines', the past week.
   Quite a number from this place took in the excursion to Sylvan Beach last Saturday. All report a fine time.
   Ben Decker's daughter and children from Hudson are visiting at her parents, and calling on friends in this vicinity.
   Our trustee has hired Miss Hattie Pollard to teach another term, which gives entire satisfaction. School commences Sept. first.
   Chas. Jennings comes to the front on oats as yet; from eight acres he threshed six hundred and eight bushels of oats, seventy-six bushels per acre. Next.
   CHIP.

TAYLOR.
   Joseph McLane of Pitcher called upon relatives in town Saturday.
   Myron Brooks of Syracuse is with his parents for a two weeks stay.
   Miles Riggles of Georgetown is visiting his cousin, Mrs. M. A. Leiber.
   Mrs. Amelia Brown and daughter, of Truxton, are visiting friends about town.
   Mrs. Nettie DeLong and children of Pitcher, were guests at W. H. DeLong's Friday.
   C. S. Brooks has purchased a reaper and binder of Seacord & Hulbert, of East Homer.
   Mrs. Peter McLane visited her daughter Mrs. Bert Jordan, from Thursday until Sunday.
   Farmers are anxiously waiting fair weather in order that they may harvest their oat crop.
   Artemus Wire has been engaged to teach the school in Cincinnatus village. He commences his labors next Monday.
   Mrs. Benjamin Brooks of Syracuse has been stopping with her brother-in-law, Thomas Brooks, for a few days.
   Those who attended the picnic in Wight's grove seemed to enjoy themselves immensely. Revs. Edson Rogers of Cincinnatus, and J. H. Jacobs of Freetown, gave very instructive addresses from which we earnestly hope our erring republican friends may profit.
   CALUMET.

TRUXTON.
   Mrs. B. F. Stearns of Oneida is visiting her daughter, Mrs. Henry Bliss.
   G. R. Fox and wife of Union Valley were in town Friday, and A. Hawyer of the same place was here Saturday.
   Quite a number of people from Truxton took in the excursion to Elmira Sunday, but did not have a very pleasant time owing to the rain.
   It seems that R. R. companies seek to improve the morals of people by joining religious services with Sunday recreations. But at Eldridge Park there was not much of either.
   Mrs. Charilla Kenney, Mrs. H. J. Bosworth, Miss Sophia Watson, Mrs. Emma Kenney, Miss Sarepta Hicks and others attended a Baptist Association at Homer, Wednesday.
   Last Thursday Mrs. Eliza Schermerhorn, a lady about 80 and who had been in poor health for some time, had a stroke of paralysis which terminated in death last Sunday at noon. Her daughter, Mrs. Eunice McLean was on the way from Wisconsin but did not reach here until after her mother's death. Mrs. Schermerhorn was a woman of a kindly and sociable disposition, loving her children dearly and loved by them in return. Her funeral, which was held Tuesday, was largely attended.

VIRGIL.
   Miss Minnie Pendleton is visiting friends in Townsendville, Seneca Co.
   Hurrah! We are going to have our band pagoda finished in the near future.
   Mr. and Mrs. George E. Peer visited friends at Ithaca, Saturday and Sunday.
   Our town is quite jubilant over the nomination of our townsman, Mr. S. K. Jones for County Clerk.
   Mr. Rodolph Price, who has been quite sick, is much better and the doctor thinks he will be around again in a few days.
   Quite a good many from this place attended the Johnson picnic at Harford, Thursday and report a very pleasant time.
   Mr. and Mrs. Horace Leet, of Ithaca, are making his sister, Mrs. Ed. Price, a farewell visit before starting for their western home.
   Mr. and Mrs. Lemiah Sherman returned home from Kansas last week. Mr. S. thinks that there are worse places than Virgil.
   Mrs. Roy Smith and daughter, who have been visiting her parents in town for the past three weeks, returned to her home in Syracuse, Tuesday.
   The Grangers from this place were well represented at the Trout Park at Cortland Wednesday, it being their annual picnic. Our band accompanied them.
   Mrs. Jennie Willcox, of Jackson, Mich., is visiting friends in town. She spoke to a full house at the M. E. church Sunday evening. Subject: "Temperance."
   On account of the absence of the president, Miss Pendleton, and the vice-president, Miss Foster, the Good Band of Helpers will have their regular meeting next Tuesday evening, Sept. the first, instead of this week Tuesday.
   The Alliance picnic which was to have been held here the 21st. was postponed until this week Saturday 29, in Mr. Myron Ballous grove. A good speaker has been engaged for the occasion. Music by the Virgil cornet band. Every one is invited to be present.
   The entertainment given by the Good Band of Helpers on Saturday evening was a success socially and financially, the president read a portion of the one hundred and third Psalm, prayer by Rev. C. J. Pendleton, then all joined in singing one verse of the familiar hymn, Rescue the Perishing, after which the secretary called the roll, the president then gave a brief statement of the work of the society then followed the literary program. Cornet and piano duet, entitled "One Lock of Hair," by Mr. Lewis Christman and Miss Minnie Pendleton; selection, Miss Susia Crain; recitation, "Asleep at the Switch" by Miss Minnie Pendleton; selection by Miss Nora Ball; recitation, "The Toper" by Miss Minnie Pendleton; dialogue, "Mrs. Maclackland's Economy," benediction by the pastor.
   TOPSEY.

FREETOWN.
   George Burton of Groton is in town.
   Mr. Sylvanus Smith spent last week visiting friends in Herkimer.
   Mr. John McVean, Esq., of Marathon called on friends in town Monday.
   But few attended Quarterly meeting, as it was rain, rain, all day.
   Mr. and Mrs. Chaffee of McGrawville were guests at L. Tripp's Sunday.
   Ira Wavle and wife of Lapeer were calling on friends Sunday.
   School commenced here yesterday with Mrs. Dell Underwood as teacher.
   Miss Estelle Van Buskirk of Scranton visited at Mrs. Carrie Tripp's Sunday.
   Mrs. Carrie Youngs of McGrawville was a guest at Mrs. Hammond's recently.
   Mrs. Gena Dickinson visited her sister in Marathon Friday.
   A large number attended the Hammond picnic Friday at Marathon.
   Miss Lulu Watrous of Cortland was a guest at Charles Slocumb's the past week.
   Miss Linna Breed of Washington visited at Mr. Clarence Tripp's Wednesday.
   Mr. Polydore Corwin and wife spent Saturday picnicing [sic] at Little York.
   Mr. Dudley Corwin and wife of Cortland visited at Frank Slocumb's last week.
   Mrs. Whiting and her son George of Pennsylvania are visiting at her niece's, Mrs. L. Dickinson.
   Miss Eliza Tuttle and Margaret Wright of Cortland are guests at Chauncey Tuttle's this week.
   Mrs. W. Curtis of Michigan was visiting relatives and friends the past week, after an absence of many years.
   Mr. George Turner and family from East Virgil were guests at Almeron Metzgar's the past week.
   Mr. James Smith was appointed delegate to the State Temperance lodge to be held at the Thousand Islands this month.
   Mr. L. Smith sold a yearling colt to Mr. Wm. Brown of Dolgeville, Herkimer Co., that weighed thirteen hundred and fifty pounds. Beat that who can.
   Mrs. Philander Knight of Homer is in town with medicine to cure the people. She took up her abode with Mrs. Sarah Dickinson, who patronizes her.

WILLETT.
   A. R. Peck, of Cortland, was in town on "business" Saturday.
   Several from this town were at Cortland to-day attending the town convention.
   The town board met Monday evening of this week and organized a board of health.
   Dr. Jewett and wife, of Cortland, were the pleasant guests of R. W. Bourne and family the past week.
   School commenced Monday of this week in the village district. A gentleman from Smithville Flats teaches the higher department, and Miss Bunnell from North Pitcher, is the teacher in the primary department.
   At the Republican caucus Saturday evening C. P. McVean was elected delegate to the Senatorial Convention, and Ambrose Moseley, A. O. Tennant, Charles Church, Frank Miller, B. H. Loomis and E. W. Covey Jr., delegates to county convention.
   For some time past John S. Jones has been frequently visited by a poultry thief, and one day last week he set about half a dozen steel traps, baiting the same with a turkey and the next morning a large owl was found in the traps. The owl measured about five feet from tip to tip.
 







 



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