Red Rock area compilation map from Beers 1873 Columbia County NY Atlas.

Red Rock Area

Compiled from Beers Atlas of Columbia County, New York

1873

Appendix - 1890-1899

Memorabilia Related Research Material

Contents

1890 Charles Merriman Coxon, Lodger - 14 Charterhouse Square

Qualifying Property: 1 Cripplegate buildings

Names of Electors

pg. 847 DIVISION 1 - CRIPPLEGATE WITHOUT - 1890

Names of Electors in full, Surname being first.: 22993 Coxon, Charles Merriman Place of Abode.: 14 Charterhouse Square Nature of Qualification.: Tenement Description of Qualifying Property.: 1 Cripplegate buildings

NOTE: 1 Cripplegate buildings is used as qualifying property by 3 additional people as well: Kingsford, Spencer; Pearce, Nicholas; Pounde, John. Pearce appears here and in the 1899 list for 118 & 119 Fore Street as well. jhc

1890-03-06 John Howes Elected Commissioner, Town of Austerlitz

THE TOWN MEETINGS

Austerlitz

The contest in this town waxed quite warm, although the democrats were late in the field with their ticket. The following were the candidates, the republican ticket winning by small majorities, Mr. Ambler's being 12 for supervisor, Ira Palmer for town clerk (no opp); John Howes for commissioner. 13; J. H. Hand, justice (full term) 41; C. D. Higgins (vacancy) no opp.; Seymour Wester for assessor 76; E. H. Harvey for collector 23. These were the tickets: Rep: SUPERVISOR. Dem. Henry S Ambler — Joseph Downing TOWN CLERK. Ira Palmer — Ira Palmer COMMISSIONER. John Howes — Wm H Vincent JUSTICES. John H. Hand (full term). — E O Montross Chas D Higgins (short term) Chas D Higgins (to fill vacancy. ASSESSOR. S L. Westover — Chas R Sawyer COLLECTOR. Edward H Harvey — F Christman OVERSEERS. Jas S Griswold — Anthony Michael Alfred Harvey — Jas S Griswold INSPECTORS. Albert Webster — John H. Whitman Michael D Higgins — Frederick Boos CONSTABLES. William c Howard — Edward D Howard Myron H Clark — Peter E Kane Russell G Harvey — Robert West Richard Anson — David Grant EXCISE. Harvey O Gott

From the Chatham Courier, 1890-03-06, Page 4

1890-03-12 D. Reed Howes Dies

RED ROCK.

— Edgar Vanderburgh is on the sick list.

— Louis Stickles is able to be out again after a long illness.

— Mr. Cook of Copake, is staying at C. H., Jenkins' and buying up cattle.

— Samuel Bemiss is moving on the Rodgers farm in Macedonia, which he will work on shares.

— The remains of Laban Holdridge, a former resident, were brought here from Chatham for interment on the 12th. He was 88 years of age.

— D. Reed Howes who died at his home at Mt. Pleasant, March 12th, was the third of seven sons of Mrs. Sarah M Howes, who will be remembered by many in Austerlitz, as a woman of great integrity of character. With few educational advantages in youth, he was a Bible student, and during several years was a successful Bible teacher, but the charm of his life was his kindly care for the poor and unfortunate. While yet a young man he, with the help of one or two younger brothers, bought a comfortable home for his widowed mother, they paying for it by the labor of their hands and presenting her with the deed. A man of sober habits, generous and hospitable even to a fault, he was able by industry to provide bountifully for his family, and at his table all who came were made welcome. Of him and his estimable wife, who survives him, it can be truly said that no one ever applied to them for help or shelter in vain, or left their door hungry. In consequence of an injury received by him several years ago he had been for some time a great sufferer, and had been compelled to lean very heavily upon those to whom he had formerly been a support. We feel that the community has lost a worthy member, and that noblest of God's work, an honest man.

From the Chatham Courier, March 20, 1890, Page 8

1891-10-30 Will - Betsey Stewart

In the Name of God, Amen I Betsey Stewart the widow of William D. Stewart, deceased, residing in the town of Chatham in the County of Columbia and state of New York, being of sound and disposing mind, memory and understanding, and mindful of the uncertainty of this life, do make, publish and declare my last Will and Testament as follows, to wit: First After the payment of all my debts, funeral and administration expenses, I give and bequeath unto my beloved son, William G. Stewart, the use and enjoyment of the whole income arising from my whole estate, so long as he shall live and no longer. Second After the decease of my said son William G. Stewart, then I give and bequeath the whole of the said income of my said estate to my beloved brother Lorenzo J Goodrich, should he said Lorenzo, then be living but should my said brother Lorenzo then be dead then I give, devise and bequeath all my property then remaining unto the heirs at law of said Lorenzo J Goodrich, in the same manner as to distribution thereof among his said heirs, as if said Lorenzo had died without a will intestate. Third And I do further direct and order that my whole estate during the life of both said William G. Stewart and said Lorenzo J Goodrich, shall be held in trust by my executors hereinafter named, to take and hold the whole of my estate and pay over to William G. Stewart and said Lorenzo J. Goodrich the income of said the state as is hereinbefore provided and directed. And lastly, I do hereby appoint my said brother Lorenzo, J, Goodrich and Frederick C. Goodrich his son to be the executors of this my Will and the trustees under the same, giving them or the survivor of them, full power, and authority to sell, and dispose of any or all the real estate of which I may die seized, should they or the survivor of them see proper and best so to do, and I do hereby revoke all former Wills by me made. In Witness Whereof, I have hereto set my hand and seal this 1st day of October 1891.

Betsey Stewart L.S.

John P. S. Gifford Geo. McClellan On the day of the date of the foregoing instrument, the above named Betsey Stewart, to us well known, signed the foregoing instrument in our presence, and to us declared the same to be her Last Will and Testament, and we at the same time, at her request signed the same as witnesses thereto, in her presence and in the presence of each other. John P. S. Gifford, Chatham N.Y. Geo. McClellan, Chatham N.Y.

Betsey Stewart Will (probated 1893-10-30), Columbia County Clerk's Office - Book 96 of Deeds at Page 152

1892-07-27 Deed - 120 Acres - Referee to William G. Stewart

This Referee's deed conveys the 120 acre Cyprian Powell farm in Red Rock to William G. Stewart upon foreclosure of a mortgage to William D. Stewart inherited by his son, William G. Stewart

This Indenture, made this 27th day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and ninety two Between Sanford W. Smith referee in the action hereinafter mentioned of the first part, and William G. Stewart of the Town of Chatham, Columbia County N. Y. of the second part, Whereas, At a term of the Columbia County Court held at the Chamber of the County Judge in the City of Hudson on the 4th day of June one thousand eight hundred and ninety two it was among other things, ordered, adjudged, and decreed by the said Court in a certain action then pending in the said Court, between William G. Stewart as sole surviving executor of the last will and testament of William D. Stewart, deceased, against Louisa Powell and Louise Spencer, that all and singular the premises described in a mortgage executed by Cyprian Powell and Louisa Powell his wife of the town of Austerlitz in the County of Columbia, N. Y. to William D. Stewart of the Town of Chatham in said County & State and recorded in Columbia County Clerk's Office in Liber 47 page 262 and being the same premises mentioned in the complaint in said action, and in said judgment described, or so much thereof as might be sufficient to raise the amount due to the plaintiff for principle, interest and costs in said action, and which might be sold separately without material injury to the parties interested, be sold at public auction, according to the course and practice of said Court, by or under the direction of the said Sanford W. Smith (who was appointed a Referee in said action, and to who it was referred by the said order and judgment of the said Court, among other things, to make such sale; that the sale be made in the County where the said mortgaged premises, or the greater part thereof, are situated; that the said Referee give public notice of time and place of such for sale, according to the course and practice said Court, and that any of the parties in said action might become a purchaser or purchaser on such sale; that the said Referee execute to the purchaser or purchasers of the said mortgaged premises, or such part or parts thereof, as shall be sold, and a good and sufficient deed or deeds of conveyance for the same. And whereas the Referee, in pursuance of the order and judgment of the said Court did, on the 23rd day of July one thousand eight hundred and ninety two sell at public auction, at the law offices of H. W. and G. McClellan, in the town of Chatham Columbia County N. Y. the premises in the said order and judgment mentioned, due notice of the time and place of such sale being first given, agreeably to the said order; at which sale the premises hereinafter described were struck off to the said party of the second part for the sum of Three Hundred Dollars that being the highest sum bidden for the same. Now this indenture witnesseth, that the said Referee the party of the first part these presents, in order to carry into effect the sale so made by him as aforesaid, in pursuance of the order and judgment of the said Court, and in conformity to the statute in such case made and provided, and also in consideration of the premises and the sum of money so hidden as aforesaid, having been first duly paid by the said party of the second part, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, hath bargained and sold, and by these presents doth grant and convey to the said part of the second part, All the right title and interest which Louisa Powell and Louise Spencer had on the 12th day of May 1892, they being the only heirs at law and next of kin of Cyprian Powell deceased, as mortgagor of and to the following described premises All that certain piece, parcel or farm of land, situate lying and being in the town of Canaan, in the County of Columbia and State of New York, bounded generally as follows; On the north by Addison Burrows and lands in possession of M. Kendell and Zenos Burrows, and Rual Ford and Amos S. Goodrich; west by Amos S. Goodrich, Rhoda B. Starks, Leban Holdridge, and Arnold Holdridge; on the south by John Phillips and Henry Webster and the east by said Henry Webster, Addison Burrows and others, containing about one hundred and twenty acres, more or less, and being the farm now in the possession of the party of the first part hereto (Cyprian Powell and Louisa Powell his wife) To have and to hold all and singular, the premises above mentioned and described, and hereby conveyed unto the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns forever. In Witness Whereof the said party of the first part, Referee as a forehead, hath hereunto set his hand and seal, the day and year first above written.

Sealed and delivered in presence of } C.E. Barrett } State of New York } County of Columbia } ss / Sanford W. Smith L. S. / On this twenty-seventh day of July in the year one thousand eight hundred and ninety two, before the subscriber personally came Sanford W. Smith Referee to me known to be the person described in an who executed the within instrument, and he acknowledged that he executed the same. / C. E. Barrett Notary Public Col. Co. N. Y. / Recorded August 1, 1892 12:30 PM.

Columbia County Clerk's Office Book 93 of Deeds at Page 240

1892-12-14 Ezra Park Dies

RED ROCK

—Harry Reynolds has gone to Pittsfield where he has a situation.

—Wm. Stickles is putting in a mill to grind feed, which will be ready in a few days.

—Mr. and Mrs. John Thomas are visiting relatives in Syracuse, and Miss Carrie Thomas in Pittsfield.

—Eric Vanderburgh removed his family on Monday to Plantsville, Conn., where he has been working in a bolt mill for the last six months.

—Rev. W. P. Chase will preach a Christmas sermon next Sabbath morning at the Christian church, and in the evening begin a series of meetings to continue through the week.

DEATH OF EZRA PARK,—It is seldom that we are called upon to record the death of one who reaches the advanced age of 96 years, but on last Wednesday evening there passed quietly away the oldest resident of the town of Canaan, Mr. Ezra Park, It was only after a few day’s illness that closed the remarkably long and useful life of one of the most highly respected residents of that town. Mr. Park was born Feb. 19, 1797, at Red Rock, in the house in which he died. His entire life had been spent there, with the exception of a few years while living on the Park homestead, the adjoining farm. In 1823 he married Sally Maria Barrett, who died about 10 years ago. Five of their seven children survive, Lucinda M. Clark, of Red Creek, N. Y., Laura J., Joseph D., and Henry H., of Red Rock, and Francis I. Park of this village. Ezra Park was the son of Ezra Park, Sr., and a grandson of Smith Park who came from Sharon, Conn., in 1780 as one of the first settlers. Ezra Park, Sr., went into the Revolutionary service when only 16 years of age. He afterwards re-enlisted for three years as an artisan and helped to build the chevaldefrise across the Hudson river in those times of war.

The deceased was the eighth in a family of 13 children. From boyhood he had been used to hard work, but a more regular temperate life has never been lived. He never indulged in intoxicants nor used tobacco in any form. He was a careful reader and even to the very last days of his life his mind was as clear and his conversation bright and intelligent as a man in middle life. To converse with him was a pleasure and his clear description of olden times served to entertain many besides his great grandchildren. Although not an active worker in politics he never failed of voting at a presidential election after 21 years of age. George Washington was living when the deceased was born and John Adams was president. When he was nine years old the great duel of Hamilton and Burr was fought. When Fulton’s steamboat first plowed the waters of the Hudson he was ten years of age and a witness of the scene, and when nearly 50 years of age the first telegraph line was built. How many changes and how many wonderful improvements has this aged man been permitted to witness!

Thus has closed a long and useful Christian life. His words of sound advice will live on and on and many there are who will miss the kindness of a friend and neighbor in Ezra Park. The funeral was held from his late home Saturday, Rev. E. S. Potter officiating, assisted by Revs. W. F. Compton and E. A. Lord. The interment was in the family lot on the old homestead farm.

Transcribed from: The Chatham Courier, Red Rock column, late December 1892

. . .

PARK - At Red Rock, Dec. 14, Ezra Park, aged 95 years and 10 months.

Transcribed from the same page, Died column

On the same page is a Quarterly Report of the State Bank dated December 13th, 1892. - jhc

1893-04-06 Wm. G. Coxon, Defendant

Ambrose Mully et. al. as executors vs. Wm. G. Coxon and another, a jury was called and an inquest taken by consent of the defendant. The action was to recover the face of a note for $500 with interest amounting to $78.41. At the close of the testimony there being no opposition the Court directed a verdict at the hands of the jury for $578.41.

From: At The Courthouse column, 1893-04-06 Columbia Republican, pg3

1893-05-11 Elbridge Howes' House & Barn Burn

Fire on Mt. Pleasant

>

Red Rock N. Y. (Special) —Last Thursday afternoon fire broke out in the barn of Elbridge Howes’ on Mount Pleasant. Mr. and Mrs. Howes were away and her mother, Mrs. Colburn, and two children were alone. She succeeded in saving a wagon and a calf that were in the barn and then discovered that the house was burning. John Howes, the nearest neighbor, was ploughing in a distant field and reached there a few moments before the roof fell in. A sewing machine, a few chairs and a little bedding was saved, but no clothing. A strong wind spread the flames and many acres of woodland were burned over, also rails and wood that was cut and piled. The alarm was spread through the valley and a gang of men went up, and after much labor succeeded in subduing the flames. The origin of the fire is unknown. The family are staying at John Howes' and later will occupy the David Howes house.

Transcribed from: The Chatham Courier, Wednesday, May 17, 1893

1893-10-30 Will Probated - Betsey Stewart

Record of the last will and testament of Betsey Stewart late of the town of Chatham Columbia County N.Y. deceased as a Will valid to pass real and personal property, together with the proofs relating thereto, taken in the Surrogate's Court of the County of Columbia, N.Y. and the decree admitting same Will to probate.

Recorded October 30th 1893

In the Name of God, Amen I Betsey Stewart the widow of William D. Stewart, deceased, residing in the town of Chatham in the County of Columbia and state of New York, being of sound and disposing mind, memory and understanding, and mindful of the uncertainty of this life, do make, publish and declare my last Will and Testament as follows, to wit: First After the payment of all my debts, funeral and administration expenses, I give and bequeath unto my beloved son, William G. Stewart, the use and enjoyment of the whole income arising from my whole estate, so long as he shall live and no longer. Second After the decease of my said son William G. Stewart, then I give and bequeath the whole of the said income of my said estate to my beloved brother Lorenzo J Goodrich, should he said Lorenzo, then be living but should my said brother Lorenzo then be dead then I give, devise and bequeath all my property then remaining unto the heirs at law of said Lorenzo J Goodrich, in the same manner as to distribution thereof among his said heirs, as if said Lorenzo had died without a will intestate. Third And I do further direct and order that my whole estate during the life of both said William G. Stewart and said Lorenzo J Goodrich, shall be held in trust by my executors hereinafter named, to take and hold the whole of my estate and pay over to William G. Stewart and said Lorenzo J. Goodrich the income of said the state as is hereinbefore provided and directed. And lastly, I do hereby appoint my said brother Lorenzo, J, Goodrich and Frederick C. Goodrich his son to be the executors of this my Will and the trustees under the same, giving them or the survivor of them, full power, and authority to sell, and dispose of any or all the real estate of which I may die seized, should they or the survivor of them see proper and best so to do, and I do hereby revoke all former Wills by me made. In Witness Whereof, I have hereto set my hand and seal this 1st day of October 1891.

Betsey Stewart L.S.

John P. S. Gifford Geo. McClellan On the day of the date of the foregoing instrument, the above named Betsey Stewart, to us well known, signed the foregoing instrument in our presence, and to us declared the same to be her Last Will and Testament, and we at the same time, at her request signed the same as witnesses thereto, in her presence and in the presence of each other. John P. S. Gifford, Chatham N.Y. Geo. McClellan, Chatham N.Y.

Surrogate's Court, County of Columbia. In the Matter of proving the Last Will and Testament of Betsey Stewart Deceased

Columbia County. s.s: John P. S. Gifford of the Town of Chatham and George McClellan of the town of Ghent in the County of Columbia being first duly sworn in open court, on their oaths do depose and say that they are subscribing witnesses to the instrument now shown to them, purporting to be the Last Will and Testament of Betsey Stewart of the Town of Chatham, in the County of Columbia aforsaid, deceased, and bearing date on the 1st day of October in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and ninety-one. That the deponents signed their names as witnesses to said instrument at the request and in the presence of the said Betsey Stewart and in the presence of each other. That the deponents saw the said Betsey Stewart execute the said instrument and heard her declare the same to be her last Will and Testament at which time the said Betsey Stewart was upwards of 21 years of age and of sound mind and memory, and not under restraint to the knowledge or belief of these deponents. That said Betsey Stewart is now dead, and was at the time of her death an inhabitant of the Town of Chatham in the County of Columbia and State of New York.

John P. S. Gifford George McClellan

Sworn to before me this } 30th day of October 1893 } Isaac N Collier, Surrogate

At a Surrogates Court, held in and for the County of Columbia, at the Surrogates Office, in the City of Hudson on the 30th day of October 1893.

Present. The Surrogate In the Matter of the Last Will and Testament of Betsey Stewart Deceased On the application of Lorenzo J. Goodrich and Frederick C. Goodrich, the executors and trustees named and said Will and on filing due proof of service of citation on the only next of kin and only heir at law of said deceased and on all persons interested under any of the provisions of said Will and Special guardian having been appointed and appearing for the said heir at law and next of kin, a lunatic, and after hearing the proofs, and it appearing that said Will was duly executed; that the testatrix was at the time of making said Will in all respects competent to make the same, and was not under any restraint. It is Ordered and Decreed That said Will bearing the date October 1st 1891 be and the same hereby is admitted to probate as a Will valid to pass real and personal property and that the same with the proofs relating thereto be recorded accordingly; the probate of said Will not having been contested; Ordered further that Letters Testamentary thereof issue to said executors and trustees they having taken and filed the oath prescribed by law.

Isaac N Collier Surrogate Columbia County s.s: Recorder the preceding Last Will and Testament of Betsey Stewart late of the town of Chatham Columbia County N.Y. deceased, as a Will valid to pass real and personal property, with the proofs relating thereto, taken in the Surrogate's Court of the County of Columbia, N.Y. and the decree admitting said Will to probate, which record is hereby signed and certified by me, pursuant to the provisions of the Statutes of the State of New York, this 30th day of October 1893.

Isaac N Collier, Surrogate

State of New York } Columbia County Surrogate's Office } s.s: I Bayard L Peck, Clerk to the Surrogate's Court of said County, do hereby certify that I have compared the foregoing copy of the record of the Last Will and Testament of Betsey Stewart late of the town of Chatham, Columbia County, N.Y. deceased, with the original record thereof now remaining in this office, and have found the same to be a correct transcript therefrom and of the whole of such original record In Testimony Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of Office of said Surrogate this 31st day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and ninety-three.

Bayard L. Peck L.S. Clerk to the Surrogate's Court

State of New York } Columbia County Surrogate's Office } s.s: I Isaac N Collier, Surrogate of said County and presiding magistrate of the Surrogate's Court do hereby certify that the foregoing exemplification of the record of the Last Will and Testament of Betsey Stewart, late of the town of Chatham, Columbia County, N.Y. deceased is authenticated in due form, and by the proper officer, and in such form and manner that it would be received in evidence in any of the Courts of this State In Testimony Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of Office of said Surrogate this 31st day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and ninety-three

Isaac N Collier, Surrogate L.S.

Recorded Nov. 3, 1893 12:30 P.M.

Betsey Stewart Will (probated 1893-10-30), Columbia County Clerk's Office - Book 96 of Deeds at Page 152

1894-02-01 A Rich Farmer Goes Crazy

William G. Stewart, a wealthy farmer residing in the vicinity of Red Rock, town of Chatham, was taken to the Hudson River State Hospital a few days ago. He is violently insane, having purchased a dirk knife for the purpose of killing several persons in Chatham who had done him a fancied wrong.

From: The Republican, 1894-02-01, pg 2

1894-02-01 Telephone System Placed in Ellenville

A telephone system has been placed in the village of Ellenville. The cost to subscribers is not to exceed $2.50 per month.

From: The Republican, 1894-02-01, pg 2

1894-02-07 Estate of William D. Stewart

In the matter of the estate of William D. Stewart, late of the town of Chatham, deceased, an order was entered in surrogate’s office last week revoking letters testamentary heretofore issued to William G. Stewart of said town.

From: The Local News Column, The Chatham Courier, pg 4, 1894-02-07

1894-02-07 William G. Stewart Letters Testamentary Revoked

In the matter of the estate of William D. Stewart, late of the town of Chatham, deceased, an order was entered in surrogate’s office last week revoking letters testamentary heretofore issued to William G. Stewart of said town.

The Chatham Courier, Chatham N. Y., February 7, 1894 pg4

1894-02-14 William Stewart Rumored Dead

The rumor which was current on the streets last week to the effect that William Stewart was dead, was groundless. Mr. Stewart is still in the Poughkeepsie insane asylum, and his condition remains about the same as when first committed there.

From: The Local News column, The Chatham Courier, pg4, 1894-02-14

1894-03-29 Deed - Sarah Currie to John Howes - 270 acres

NOTE: This is Jesse Goodrich Jr. & Jesse Sr's farms. jhc

This Indenture, made this 29th day of March, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and ninety four, between Sarah C. Currie of Rutland, Vermont, party of the first part, and John Howes of Red Rock, Columbia County, New York, party of the second part, Witnesseth, that the said party of the first part, in consideration of the sum of Four Hundred Dollars, (less unpaid taxes, $63.82 = #336.18), to her duly paid, hath sold, and by these presents doth grant and convey to the party off the second part, his heirs and assigns, All that certain triangular shaped tract or farm of land, situate lying and being in the Town of Austerlitz, in the County of Columbia and State of New York, bounded and described generally as follows, viz: northerly by lands of James Finning, the Richmond Ironworks, and Ezekiah Barrett, respectively, east by lands of Frederick Farrand and lands of Reed Howes: south and southerly by lands of said Reed Howes, and lands of Garrett Van Valkenburgh, containing two hundred and seventy acres of land, more or less. Being the same premises conveyed to the said Garrett Van Valkenburgh by deed from Cornelius Hardick and Maria, his wife, dated February 25th 1865, and recorded in Columbia County Clerk's office in Liber No. 22 of Deeds page 400. With the appurtenances, and all the estate, title and interest therein of the said party of the first part. And the said party of the first part doth hereby covenant and agree to and with the said party of the second part, his heirs and assigns, that the premises thus conveyed in the quiet and peaceable possession of the party of the second part, his heirs and assigns, she will forever warrant and defend against any person whomsoever lawfully claiming the same, or any part thereof.

In Witness Whereof, the party of the first part hath thereunto set her hand and seal the day and year first above written.

Sealed and Delivered } in Presence of } E. B. Bunker, - - - Wayne Bailey } Sarah C. Currie, L. S. State of Vermont } County of Rutland } ss: On this 2d day of April in the year one thousand eight hundred and ninety four, before me, the subscribed, personally came Sarah C. Currie, to me Known to be the person described in and who executed the within instrument, and acknowledged that she executed the same.

Wayne Bailey Justice of the Peace.

State of Vermont } County Clerk's Office. Rutland County ss: }

I, Henry A. Harman, Clerk of the County of Rutland, and of the Comts of Record thereof, do hereby certify, that Wayne Bailey Esq. at the date of the paper writings to which this is attached, was a Justice of the Peace, within and for said County, dwelling therein, duly commissioned and qualified: that I am well acquainted with his handwriting, and verily believe his signature to the foregoing jurat{sic} and certificate to be genuine: that said paper writings are executed and acknowledged according to the laws of this State: and that as such officer he is duly authorized by the laws of this State to take affidavits, depositions, and the acknowledgment of deeds, and to administer oaths, etc. In Testimony Whereof I have hereto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the County Comt at the City of Rutland, this 3d day of April A. D. one thousand eight hundred and ninety four.

L. S. H. A. Harmon, Clerk.

Recorded May 7th 1894 at 9:15 A. M.

Columbia County Clerk's Office, Book 97, Page 210 of Deeds

1894-03-29 John Howes Elected Excise Commissioner

Town Officers — 1894

The following persons were chosen to the offices named at the Town Meetings held March 20th. Republicans are marked thus—*

AUSTERLITZ.

Supervisor, *Ira Palmer; Town Clerk Lewis R. Higgins; Justices, *J. Thorn Clark, Commissioner of Highways, Benjamin Sitter; Assessor, *Robert M. Nichols; Overseers of Poor, *Lewis E. Smith, *Frank Barden; Insp. Elec., *T. Frank Niles, *Elbridge S. Howes, Enos C. Montrose; Constables. John H. Christman, *Alvin G. Clapper, *Edward H. Harvey, *Jerome B Westover, *Frank B. Barden; Excise Com'rs., *Horatio L. Smitb, *John Howes; Next Town Meeting at house kept by R G. Harvey.

From the 1894-03-29 Columbia Republican

1894-09-26 NOTICE TO CREDITORS William G. Stewart

NOTICE TO CREDITORS.—-Pursuant to the order of Hon. Isaac N. Collier, Surrogate of the County of Columbia, notice is hereby given, according to law, to all persons having claims against William G. Stewart, late of the town of Chatham, in the County of Columbia, deceased, they are required to present the same with vouchers thereof to the subscribers, Administrators of said deceased, at the law offices of McClellan & Dardess at Chatham, N. Y., on or before the 1st day of January next. Dated, June 2 1894. GEORGE McCLELLAN. JESSE D. GOODRICH. Administrators.

From: The Chatham Courier, pg7, 1894-09-26

1895-01-30 William Stewart Farm Sale

Sale of Real Estate

On Monday morning occurred the sale, at the law office of McClallans & Dardess, of four parcels of real estate to settle the estate of the late William Stewart who resided near Red Rock. The parcels consisted of the homestead which sold for $4500, the Cyprian Powell farm which brought $1100, a tenement house on the home farm $150, a six acre piece of land known as the Thomas Roach wood lot $50, a total of $5800. Lorenzo J. Goodrich purchased all. $5800 for these parcels seem a very low price, quality of land and buildings considered.

From: The Chatham Courier, pg4, 1895-01-30

1895-09-23 Maggie Coxon Has Returned

Miss Maggie Coxon, who has been absent from her home a long time, has returned. Friends were glad to meet her again.

From: New Concord column, Chatham Courier, pg5, 1895-09-23

1896 Charles Merriman Coxon, Lodger - 14 Charterhouse Square

Qualifying Property: 7 Wood Street Square

Names of Electors

pg. 938 DIVISION 1. - CRIPPLEGATE WITHIN - 1896

Names of Electors in full, Surname being first.: 24019 Coxon, Charles Merriman Place of Abode.: 14 Charterhouse square Nature of qualification.: Tenement Description of qualifying Property.: 7 Wood street square

1896-02-12 THE ROAD QUESTION

THE ROAD QUESTION.

Supervisor Palmer of Canaan, opens the ball on the expensive "good road" system proposed by a bill now before the legislature — see his article in another column. It will be borne in mind that the superintendent's salary is to be a county charge, but other expenses of road making are to be charged as follows: 15 percent. to the town wherein made, 35 per cent to the county at large, and the remaining 50 per cent to the state at large. The act also provides for the issuance or bonds to pay for such improvements.

The Courier will be glad to receive short articles discussing this question and we would like to give both sides a hearing. We look upon this as an important matter and a timely one. While this proposed bill may not become a law, some good roads measure most surely will, as there is a strong backing in Albany to push some such measure through this winter. It will be well to give the question a thorough hearing so that when the law is enacted our supervisors will know what their constituents expect them to do in the matter.

While on this question we may direct attention to one or two other proposed laws governing the care and construction of highways. One of these proposes to abolish the present system of taxation for highway purposes in this state, substituting therefore the money system of taxation.

Section 2 recites:

Each of the several towns of this state shall hereafter annually raise by tax, to be levied and collected, the same as other town taxes, for the repair of highways, an annual sum of money which shall be at least one half the value, at the commutation rates of the highway labor, which has heretofore been assessed under the system. The amount of such tax shall annually be determined by the commissioner of high ways. and the town board who shall certify this same to the board of supervisors, the same as any other town charge.

Another proposition is to have but one commissioner of highways in each township. The section amended is as follows:

The electors of each town shall, at their annual town meeting, select one commissioner of highways who shall hold office for one year, and the said commissioner elected under the provisions of this act shall possess all the powers, perform all the duties and be subject to al1 the restrictions which now devolve upon towns having three commissioners of highways. The said commissioner of highways shall receive for his first services such reasonable compensation as the town board of the town of which be is the commissioner may determine, and he shall be paid by the town for such services.

Section 2 No commissioner of highways shall be elected under the provisions of this act in those towns which at present have three highway commissioners until the terms of those commissioners in office at the time of the passage of this act shall expire, or become vacant, and such commissioners in office at the time of the passage of this act shall retain their office, and receive such compensation as they then receive, util the term for which they were severally elected shall expire.

THE ROAD QUESTION.

Supervisor W. H. Palmer Discusses the Subject.

Editor Courier— Knowing you are generally watchful of the interests of the farmer, I have for some time been watching the columns of THE COURIER for some opposition to the state road scheme; and began to think you must be a bicycle fiend. But I see you are with us and represent the interest of the county. I am in favor of home rule in this matter. I don't want to pay for road making in any other town or county. Let each town have just as good or just as bad roads as it likes. The road question in these days of railroads is simply a local matter. Farmers haul their produce to local markets and nearly every town has them. We in Canaan have good roads and find the $2500 which we expend on our 80 miles of road quite, a burden in these times. If we should build 20 miles of McAdam road, which should be done to be at all just to all portions of the town, we should in fact have to bond the town for $70,000, that being half the cost of 20 miles, for I assume the whole county would build and if they did we would be taxed for the rest, which would result in the same thing plus our share of the state tax. Three thousand five hundred as interest on bonds, two thousand for the rest of the roads on top of the state, county and school tax. Think of it! What farmer has asked for such blessings? Tell our city editors who are so zealous for us, if they want to do the farmer a good turn to ask the legislature to reduce all salaries, legislate at least one third of the officials out of office, and never create any more offices, and we will get along with the roads as we make them. W. H. PALMER. Canaan 4 Corners, N. Y. Feb. 7, '96.

—&—

As to State Roads.

The state road craze seems to be afflicting our legislators again this winter. The fact is, we now have the best roads all through the county that we had for 40 years, and with railroads convenient to market farm products. Nothing short of a crank ought to imagine that taxpayers want to pay for state carriage drives. This kind of legislation is 75 years behind time. We are "agin it ! J.J. WILDOR.

From: The Chatham Courier, 1896-02-12

1896-05-13 THE GROCERY ORACLE

SKETCHES BY B. FLAT==NO 7

Being a True and Concise Account of my Experiences in that Teeming Mart of Trade Known as Red Rock, Where I had the Honor Some Years Ago to Beeome Acquainted with Several Oracles who Have been Land Marks at that Place Since the Beginning of Time.

During one of my summer vacations I was induced to take a trip to Red Rock. I had always heard much of this ancient town and of great men who had once abided there. It was with eagerness that I accepted the invitation to observe for myself the ancestors of great men, and to see the race from whence many of my friends had degenerated. Town from whence all trout streams flow, place where all great fishermen go. Truly it hath been said there are no flies on the inhabitants of Red Rock—except trout flies.

We hired a horse for a small sum of money and set out upon our journey. It was quite a long trip as our horse was not of the highest breed, for it was wind broken and persisted in cutting over-toe with its hind feet. Our carriage was a little ancient, having been made directly after the flood when the wood was green and wet, and since its construction it had shrunk, the spokes rattling like a set of false teeth in a hurricane.

After a time—that is by and by we reached the summit of the hill which overlooks this hamlet, and stopped to take in the view. The little village lies nestled among the hills and reminds one of a Russian settlement. The thin blue smoke was curling up from the chimneys, a death like silence reigned over all, and nothing denoted that the place was inbabited except the occasional bark of a dog, while the savory smell of fried sausage floated serenely up the road.

We came into town at a fair rate of speed, the old carriage rocking and rattling and squeaking, while the old horse added to the unique appearance by trying to kick a fly off its stomach and walk on three legs at the same time. The spectacle caused people to run to the windows and look out, while dogs barked and boys ran out to throw stones at the fly on the aforesaid horse. The grocery oracle crawled down from a pile of boxes in front of the store, and exclaimed "Gosh," as he looked after us.

The houses in this place are very old and some of them undoubtedly date back to the year one, at least they look so. I had heard much of the red rock after which the village had been named and had longed to see it. Shortly we came in sight of a huge rock by the side of the road surmounted by a white stone monument which bears on it the inscription that the monument was erected in 1860, and the town was settled in 1760 or something to that effect, for I took no note of it while there. The large rock on which this monument stands is on the left of the road as you go from the village, and its of a dark red color; some say it is painted others say it grew so, I am inclined to think it a little of both.

On our return we made a short call at the village store, the haven of rustics in small country villages; as I entered the store I noticed the usual assortment of goods found in a small store; cloth, eggs, coffee, flour, sugar, canned goods, etc., were ranged about the store in rustic profusion and no one but the proprietor could find anything. On soap box at the back of the store sat an individual with a fiddle, engaged in playing the “Devil’s Dream” a weird, fantastic piece calculated to terrorize the bravest man. Near the back of the store stood a stove, and back of this sat an individual with his feet hooked into the rounds of a chair and propping himself up with a cane. His hat was on the back of his head, and in front of him was a semi-circle of tobacco juice. As we entered the store the oracle shifted his quid of tobacco and got a new brace against the stove leg with his cane. My friend bought some trifling articles while I busied myself with reading auction posters, circus announcements and ancient time tables pertaining to running of the Brick Steamer. We hung around for some time, and finally succeeded in getting the oracle entangled in conversation.

He used to know when Chatham was a small place, everybody knew that at one time, and he remembered "before the war" when the recruits used to have rifle practice down near the creek, using a pancake griddle for a bull’s eye. He used to be a great shot with a rifle, and from his stories I judged that Kit Karson or Buffalo Bill had to take a back seat when he was around. He was great on cradling rye too, but he never said anything about it until the winter frosts had throttled all the rye crops. He caught a whole car load of trout once, that is, "before people got to fishing the creeks to death." He knew the difference between a foot ball and a balloon, and when he was a boy could pitch a base ball so swift that the batter would fall into the vacuum and kill himself. He was authority on clam bakes, horse races, prize fights and politics, besides being somewhat of a naturalist. Before we left he called me to him and confidentially asked if I didn’t have a “chaw ‘o terbacker.”

It has long been a mystery to me how these oracles become established. They seem to spring up, for every town is supplied with its share; who have seen much of the world, and have worn several wooden bottoms out of the store chairs in telling about it.

I happened to be reading one day when I came across a poem which I give as exactly describing the man I saw, and in fact it will fit, to advantage, almost any member of the Never Sweats,

The Grocery Oracle.

Oh, I’ve heard Daniel Webster, an’ he spouted like a good 'un. An the rippin’, ravin’, snortin' of the slam bang Rufus Choate. But fer untiluted elerkence an’ intellechual pudd’n Sam Pickering at Blancoms store jest gethers in my vote. With jollogy an’ gogerfy an’ -rifentick ho rastles, He grabs the cyclopedy an’ slings it fair an’ flat, An’ he rips up all the sciences an’ flings 'em 'round in passels For the reservoy of wisdom spouts from jest beneath his hat. He knows the presidents messages, from Washington to Grover. 'An the eighteen-ninety census, he can say the hull thing over The Congressional reports lies packed inside his brain An then jest turn it back'ards an' say it once again. 'An we all gether 'round to get the drippin’s of his knowledge 'Taint no good to go to high school, or to waste four years in college. Or to take tho County papers, for Sam Pickering knows it all

When you go into a country store again just look behind the stove and you will find Sam Pickering, leaning back aginst a line with auction posters and bills hung on it. He is a high bercher of the town, never works, don’t want to work, and belongs to the Independent Order of Never Sweats.

B. FLAT.

1897-02-11 Swindler at Lorenzo Goodrich's

HE IS AN IMPOSTOR.

A Bogus Eye Specialist Swindling the Country People.

The bold act of an impostor who operated one day last week near Chat­ham has just come to light. He drove up to the farm house of Lorenzo J. Goodrich, and was met at the door by Miss Frances Starks, a sister of Mrs. Goodrich. He informed her that he was an oculist at the Albany hospital and that he had been sent there to treat her eyes by Mr. Goodrich’s son, who re­sides in Chatham Centre, where he had delivered a lecture a short time ago. He told her there was a growth on one of her eyes which would eventually result in a cataract and destroy the sight. He pulled out a pair of tweezers, reached into the eye and drew forth a white substance which was exhibited to Miss Starks with the remark, “There is the cataract and your sight is saved. Now I want twenty-five dollars. I ought to have seventy-five or one hun­dred, but twenty five will do this time.” She replied that she did not have as much money as that, at which he told her to get what she had and to be lively about it, too.

Miss Starks was thoroughly frightened and gave him $9, which was all she had at the time. The “oculist” then inquired for Mr. Goodrich and on being told that he was at the barn, asked the hired girl to call him, which she did. As Mr. Goodrich came in the stranger met him at the door and remarked that he had just removed a cataract from his wife’s eye (having mistaken Miss Starks­ for Mrs. Goodrich, who was sick in another room), and that he wanted $10 for the service. Mr. Goodrich went into another room to secure the $10, when the stranger followed him and as Mr. Goodrich opened his wallet to se­cure the money, made an effort to grab it. Mr. Goodrich intercepted the move and ordered the man from the room, gave him the §10 and he departed, leaving a pair of spectacles worth probably 25 cents. He also made other calls in the neighborhood. The impostor is described as a man of medium height, black eyes, one drooping eyelid and wore a gray overcoat and black cap.

From: City and County column, Columbia Republican, pg 1, 1897-02-11

1897-11-19 The Great Fire in Cripplegate - City Press Supplement

NOTE: The City Press Supplement has many pictures of this fire. I saved a few of the Wood Street area.

One of the casualties at 7 Wood Street was C. M. Coxon:

"7- F. Krasa and Co glass and china manufs., ags., and imps. Offices and show-rooms burnt out. Insured. Business at 2, Fell-st., Wood-st. N. Pearce and Co., warehousemen; second floor. Totally destroyed. Business at 118, Fore-st. F. Richardson, manufs.' ag. Burnt out. Business at 118, Fore-st. 7- Louis Rosenthal and Co., trimming manufs. Stock and office furniture destroyed. Premises taken at 118, Fore-st. C. M. Coxon, manufs.' ag. :Roof and floors fallen in. Insured. Business at 118, Fore-st."

THE ORIGIN AND PROGRESS OF THE FIRE

THE AREA AFFECTED

"It was on the premises occupied by Messrs. Waller and Brown, mantle manufacturers, of 30 and 31, Hamsell Street, that the fire broke out, the alarm being first given at the Whitecross Street station by a stranger at two minutes to one, and the first steamer arriving at two minutes past one, or four minutes afterwards. The buildings on either side-tenanted by Messrs. Oppenheimer and Co., at Nos. 32 and 33, and Messrs. Harrison, Smith and Co., at Nos. 28 and 29 were soon involved. At the same time the flames made their way to the rear of Messrs. Wailer and Brown's premises, and spread to every point in the block between Hamsell Street and Well Street, being also carried by the wind across Jewin Street, and seizing upon the warehouse at No. 45, occupied by Mr. Philip Moses, wholesale furrier.

From the commencement of the conflagration, the flames had been making their way in the direction of the " Grapes " tavern, at the corner of Hamsell Street and Jewin Street, and this whole block was speedily burnt out. The warehouse of Mr. Moses was, in the meantime, being rapidly burnt to the ground, the fire continuing to take a north-easterly direction, and eventually involving a large portion of Jewin Crescent. By half-past three Australian Avenue was reached, and here it was that the fire brigade worked for all they were worth to prevent the destruction of the valuable warehouses lying to the north. This effort was attended by success, but the flames raged so furiously that they turned aside, and soon enveloped a warehouse at the head of Bradford Avenue, the wind helping to fan the fire in that direction.

Messrs. Dent, Allcroft and Co.'s warehouse, in Bradford Avenue, built some years back, was seized upon, and the whole of the stock practically destroyed. Then the fire made straight for Redcross Street, the first building alight in that thoroughfare being that occupied by Messrs. Chave Cox and Co. Here the width of the street arrested the fire's progress, and it burnt itself out. While the firemen were using the most strenuous efforts to extinguish the fire on this side of Jewin Street, the flames had continued to spread from its origin in Hamsell Street in a south-easterly direction towards St. Giles's Church, skirting the churchyard on the southern side, attacking and seriously damaging the vicarage, and going as far south as 7, Wood Street Square, where Messrs. F. Krasa and Co.'s warehouse was the last building to suffer total demolition, though some of the premises between this and the church were seriously damaged. The church of St. Giles, Cripplegate, had a very narrow escape, and its loss would have meant the obliteration of one of the most interesting buildings, historically, in the City and Archdeaconry.

As it was, quite enough damage was done to the edifice to cause the parishioners regret and serious discomfort. The preservation of the church was due, to a large extent, to the presence of mind of a well-known parishioner, who immediately informed Commander Wells that the roof was on fire. The chief officer recognised the seriousness of the position, and detailed several firemen to cope with the fire, which they were subsequently able to do. The famous old church-where Milton lies buried and where Oliver Cromwell was married-was thus saved, but several holes were burnt in the roof, and the plaster on the walls was much disfigured. Alarm of quite as serious a character was felt by lovers of the City Companies in general when it was known that the Barbers' Hall in Monkwell Street stood in jeopardy. As it was, the famous old building was scorched, but happily, the flames got no further. When the Hall was known to be in danger scores of willing hands rendered willing help. The Holbein picture a movement for the presentation of which to the Guildhall Art Gallery a year ago was, it will be remembered, unsuccessful was placed in a position of safety close by. The picture is a most valuable possession of the Barbers' Company, and its loss would have been irreparable."[1]

HOW THE FIRE WAS GOT UNDER.

In their efforts to get a glimpse of the fire, the crowd at several points considerably hampered the work of the firemen, and there appeared to be some difficulty in keeping the crowd in order. In Redcross Street the police officers had very little difficulty in this respect, for an occasional shower of burning embers was quite sufficient to make the eager onlookers take to their heels. In several cases persons in the crowd were slightly burned by these fiery messengers, and many had their headgear damaged. Later in the day policemen were brought from all parts of the City, and in the evening there were stated to be altogether some 550 policemen and firemen on duty. The men of the Salvage Corps, who were under the command of Major Fox, were instrumental in saving a great deal of valuable property. Complaints have been made in many quarters of the delay in getting fire engines to work in the first instance; but, as a matter of fact, the first steamer arrived at two minutes past one, when the officer in charge observed that the upper floors of two of the warehouses were well alight. Four steamers were on the spot in eight minutes. After this, steamers followed in quick succession, and in 30 minutes 19 steamers were on the scene, with a complement of long ladders and escapes. Steamers and other appliances continued to arrive until the total number reached 51, one manual engine, one hose-cart, three long ladders, two fire escapes, and three hose and coal vans. The force consisted of the chief officer, the second officer, three superintendents, and 288 officers and men. Many injuries were received by officers and men, but no one was incapacitated, or expressed any wish to be relieved. The water supply was well maintained from the first. The astonishing rapidity of the fire was entirely due to the nature of the buildings, the stock which they contained, the distribution of enclosed courts and well-holes, numerous communications in party walls, and the narrowness and relative position of the thoroughfares. It is of interest to note that the quantity of water drawn from the mains of the New River Company for the purpose of extinguishment was 15,000,000 gallons, equal in weight to approximately 67,000 tons. All the water required was drawn solely from the mains of the Company, who, it may be added, will receive no payment in respect thereof.

1898-01-12 John Howes Attending Court at Hudson

RED ROCK.

—Mrs. M. L. Stickles has a severe attack of inflammation of the eyes.

—Adelbert Ford, Lucius Harmon and John Howes are attending court at Hudson.

—Remember the oyster supper at E. N. Stickles' Thursday night, Jay. 18, for the Christian church.

—The entertainment given at Spencertown by local talent a short time ago, will be reproduced in the Christian church here Jan. 18.

—The annual meeting of the Christian church was held Monday, Jan. 10. The following officers were elected: Pulpit committee, S. S. Wilcox, Mrs. Frank Frisbee; trustees, J. B. Lamoree, H. Sherill, Ellis Ford. The Sabbath school was reorganized. Mrs Lucius Harmon is superintendent and Mrs. David Burrows assistant.

From the 1898-01-12 Chatham Courier, page 5

1898-04-06 Lorenzo Goodrich is Ill

Lorenzo Goodrich, who has been seriously ill, is on the gain.

The Chatham Courier, Chatham N. Y., April 6, 1898 pg4

1898-04-13 Jesse Goodrich Has Moved to His Father, Lorenzo's Farm

Jesse Goodrich has moved from Chatham Centre to the farm of his father, Lorenzo J. Goodrich.

The Chatham Courier, Chatham N. Y., April 13, 1898 pg4

1898-05-25 John Howes Laid Foundation

GREEN RIVER.

—Ethel Westover is visiting her grandparents.

—J. C. Dunn has a nice lot of new wagons on hand.

—Alice Carragan visited her sister, Mrs. James Dunn, last week.

—E. Harvey; had his !father out to ride; he is quite poor in health.

—Frank Wheeler and wife of Barrington called on Mrs. Ed. HarveySaturday.

—E. Harvey has had a foundation laid under his new shed; John Howes did the work.

—James Hull and Charles Hull of Gt. Barrington were out on their wheels one day last week.

—Harry Plumb of the American House, Pittsfield, Mass., accompanied by Chapin James and Isaac Shepardson, ware down fishing going home with 387 trout, Isaac Shepardson catching 137 of them; they stopped at the American House.

From the 1898-05-25 Chatham Courier, page 5

1898-10-26 Husking Party by James Coxon

The husking party given by James Coxon Saturday evening was greatly enjoyed by the young people.

From: Canaan column, Chatham Courier, pg5, 1898-10-26

1898-11-02 John Howes House to be Razed

RED ROCK.

— L. D. Harmon has a boy from Albany to assist about the farm and attend school.

— Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Histon and Mrs. Lorinda Stickles were recent guests at E. N. Stickles.

— Mr. Duplain has purchased the house of John Howes and is razing it to be raised elsewhere.

— The Ashley Blinn farm lately owned by Blinn & Cookingham has been sold to Alex Lape and a collier, price $712. The wood will be turned into charcoal.

From: Chatham Courier, 1898-11-02, page 5

1898-12-21 James Coxon & Sister Return From NYC

James Coxon and sister, Miss Maggie, have returned from a visit to New York City.

From: Canaan column, Chatham Courier, pg5, 1898-12-21

1899 Charles Merriman Coxon, Lodger - 14 Charterhouse Square

Qualifying Property: 118 & 119 Fore Street

Names of Electors

pg. 1318 DIVISION 1 - CRIPPLEGATE WITHOUT - 1899

Names of Electors in full, Surname being first.: 24513 Coxon, Charles Merriman Place of Abode.: 14 Charterhouse square, E.C. Nature of qualification.: tenement Description of qualifying Property.: 118 & 119 Fore Street

NOTE: 118 & 119 Fore Street are used as qualifying property by 3 additional people as well. Furze, Herbert; Pearce, Nicholas; Richardson, Frederick. Might they be partners? Pearce appears here and in the 1890 list for 1 Cripplegate buildings as well. - jhc

1899-02-08 Comedy Drama at Christian Church

A comedy drama entitled “Captured or the Old Maid’s Triumph,” will be given Thursday evening, February 16, in the Christian church, by the young people of that church. Rehearsals are now in progress and the production bids fair to be one of the best ever presented here. This play is for laughing purposes only as the title indicates and the guarantee accompanying it is “thirty-three laughs every three minutes.” Come and witness it, you will enjoy the play and your presence will convince the performers that their efforts to please, are appreciated and, last but by no means least, the church needs the assistance which the proceeds of a well filled house will render. The cast of characters is as follows: Susan Tabatha Winchester, an old maid,.....Mrs. L. D. Harmon. Charles Winchester,(her brother) an inventor,......George Betz Joshua Pratt, a Yankee,....Daniel Lamoree. Frank Westfield,.........William M. Lamoree. Sam Sly, a farmer,.....................James Coxon. Jane Winchester, the inventor’s better half,......Miss Maggie Coxon. Polly, a servant girl....Mrs. M. O. Van Derburg. Sally, in our alley,.......Mrs. Jay J. Powell. Coachman,......Fred Goodrich.

From: Red Rock column, Chatham Courier, pg5, 1899-02-08

NOTE: Both my Grandfathers took part: James Coxon & Fred Goodrich. - jhc

1899-03-15 F. S. M. Club Officers Elected

The F. S. M. Club gave an open meeting at F. S. Hall’s, last Wednes­day evening. Many visitors were present and a very interesting pro­grame was rendered. . The follow­ing officers were elected: President, James Coxon; vice-president, F. S. Hall; secretary, L. V. Frisbee; treasurer, Wm. Lamoree.

From: Canaan column, Chatham Courier, pg 5, 1899-03-15

— revised 2024-07-24 jhc