Newspaper events Ontario County NY

From Geneva Gazette 11 October 1895

Last Monday Judge Metcalf ordered the discharge from jail of Fred S. Clarkson, (formerly of Geneva) after being incarcerated 42 days on a body execution for non-payment of costs in a suit against C. S. Codington, in which he (Clarkson) was non-suited. It seems also that Clarkson, after separating from his wife, went west, obtained a divorce, married again and has two children by his second wife.

From Ontario County Journal 11 October 1895

Naples, N. Y. - Mrs. Julia Lyon was the recipient of a surprise by a great houseful of her friends, on last Friday evening, that being her 85th birthday. A sister, Mrs. Marks, and several other old ladies, were there, and among the liveliest of the party. Mrs. Lyon is the mother of Mrs. Loonie, recently of Canandaigua.

From Ontario County Journal 18 October 1895

These are the members of the Union school football team: Manager, Merton Hall; captain, Jason Parrish; right end, George Conyne and Herbert Ellis; right tackle, Merton Hall; right guard, C. Purdy; center rush, E. Harris; left guard, Oscar Johnson; left tackle, Charles Allen and Enos Booth; left end, Gilbert Burke and Robert Grace; half back, William Tracey and Fred Grace; quarterback, Wells Martin; full back, Mason Parrish.

From Ontario County Journal 25 October 1895

A week ago last Sunday night, Miss Elizabeth Rockwood, the 19-year-old daughter of L. S. Rockwood, of Park street, this village, left her home and has not since been heard from. She left a note, stating that she had secured a position in a family as a domestic, but did not state where she was going. On the Sunday evening in question, she left the house about 6:25 o'clock, stating that she was going to young people's meeting at the Congregational church. She did not return that night, and upon investigation, it was found that she had taken her complete wardrobe with her. The note was found in her room. A certain young man is charged with the responsibility of her leaving home. Her father is endeavoring to find her.

From Geneva Gazette 1 November 1895

Exciting Runaway - People along Exchange street were horrified Wednesday morning by the sight of a horse attached to O'Conor's delivery wagon dashing madly along the street. In the wagon was a little girl, daughter of James Carroll who resides on North street. She was vainly striving to get out. The horse ran until nearly opposite the mineral spring, when in trying to turn the corner the wagon upset, throwing the little one out. Luckily she escaped serious injury, sustaining only a slight bruise of the head and face, but as well may be imagined badly scared.

From Geneva Daily Times 1 November 1895

William Fisher is a respected farmer living about three miles out of Geneva on the road to No. 9. Several months ago he met Miss Mary Smith of Buffalo. He wooed and won her. The knot was tied in Geneva the middle of October. A few days ago Mr. and Mrs. Fisher decided to go housekeeping. William is employed on the farm of Oliver Monagall and he told his employer of his intention of going housekeeping. Mr. Monagall gave him a check for $100. Mr. Fisher gave the check to his bride that she might come to town and buy furniture. She came to town, cashed the check and that is the last William has seen of her. Mrs. Fisher's former home has been with her mother in Buffalo and also with a sister who resides at Rochester. She is young and passing fair, possessing also a winning way. She has also two sisters just outside the Geneva village limits, Mrs. Frank Miller and Mrs. Moses Zimmerman, very respectable people, who deplore the present state of affairs. She came here from Rochester in July and it was then that William met her, and after a brief courtship decided he would take unto himself a wife and get a home. Mr. Fisher came to town yesterday. He had heard from his wife and his mother-in-law. His mother-in-law wanted him to come to Buffalo and his wife's epistle said she was about to go to Chicago, and gave an address, where, the letter read, she could be found. William took the 3:30 o'clock New York Central train yesterday afternoon for Buffalo. The police have been informed of the affair, but no steps have been taken to apprehend Mrs. Fisher. It is to be hoped that when William returns to Geneva the hole in his matrimonial kits will be patched up, and that henceforth the affairs of Mr. and Mrs. Fisher will be as intact as the rock ribbed coast of old Seneca.

From Geneva Daily Times 4 November 1895

Timothy Buckley was before Judge Smelzer this morning, charged with intoxication. He was going up Seneca street when people were coming from church and children going to Sunday school, taking up the whole of the walk, officer Beales claims. Timothy pleaded guilty and Judge Smelzer sentenced him to thirty days in jail. "Where did you get your drink on Sunday?", asked the justice. Mr. Buckley didn't want to say, but when informed that the officers knew and asked if he got it at the Hoffman house, conducted by Michael O'Malley, sometimes called "Ed Stokes," he answered that he did. Then justice Smelzer took his affidavit and said: "We will probably need you as a witness in this case and perhaps others, Mr. Buckley," which indicated what is to follow. Buckley gave the names of a couple of nursery employes who were with him and probably they, too, will be summoned. The Sunday closing law has been rigidly enforced for the past few weeks, and all of the saloon keepers were told to close their places of business. This case will doubtless start the ball rolling. In New York city there is a feeling to have saloons opened on Sunday, it being argued that if a man drinks and keeps himself respectable on that day, there is no harm in it. Judge Smelzer, in commenting on the matter, said: "The respectable elements of Geneva complains of the officers that they do not do their duty. They see a man drunk, waddling along the street, when they are coming from church and when children are going to Sunday school, and become justly indignant. The officers must do their duty and these deplorable jags on Sunday must be done away with."

From Ontario County Journal 8 November 1895

Phelps is considered one of the healthiest around, as the following list of Octogenarians can testify, who are all 80 and over: Wm. A. Smith, J. C. Stevens, J. F. Quithell, Norman E. Goo, Mrs. N. E. Goo, Newton Carter, A. D. Crosby, Wm. Crowe, Norman Rockefeller, Eli Jacobs, E. Laughlin, W. Hinman, H. Cary, E. Scoville, Isabella Irvin, Mrs. John Nelson, Mrs. Samuel Westfall, Mrs. Bertha Reed, Mrs. Hastings, S. Harmon, C. B. Hill, B. Cook, W. Larkins, W. Giddings, L. Sherwood, W. Keefe, A. Connelly, T. Cannaven, Patty Maffett, Mary A. Crittenden, Sophia Sanford, Elizabeth Secor, Melantha Marsh, Mrs. Jacobs, E. C. Pierce, B. Stotenburg, C. L. Webster, A. F. Ranney, P. Brown, Levi Main, Wm. Whiting, Harvey Burnett, Geo. Osborn, W. Penn, Milton Edmonston, Ulysses Warner, E. Goodale, C. R. Clapp, N. Atchley, Eli Talmadge, Maria Richmond, Betsy Watson, Harriet Dennis, Julia Sayre, Maria Lee, Mrs. Dr. Burt, Mrs. J. Conners, Lucina Swan, Mrs. Oldacre.

Tomorrow (Thursday), Theodore Crosby will be 93 years old. The occasion will be celebrated at the home of his son-in-law, Dr. A. L. Beahan, by the relatives of the old man. Mr. Crosby has a brother, Alfred, living at Phelps, who is 89 years of age. Mr. Crosby has been a resident of Ontario county for 78 years. In his great age he still retains his faculties, mental and physical, and his friends hope to see his pleasant face on the street for many years to come.

From Geneva Gazette 15 November 1895

Foot-ball is the most dangerous game to life and limb that was ever invented as it is now played. It should be tabooed by every college and school in the land.

From Geneva Daily Times 16 November 1895

Five persons against whom sealed indictments were found by the October grand jury, have been arrested and their cases disposed of as follows: Charles A. Moore, Chapinville, violation of the excise law, gave $250 bail; E. R. Norton, Canandaigua, violation of the excise law, gave $250 bail; Hugh McParland, Geneva, violation gambling law, gave $250 bail; Clyde C. Taylor, Millers Corners, assault 2 degree, gave $300 bail. These persons will be arraigned at the opening of the court of sessions on November 18.

From Geneva Daily Times 18 November 1895

Phelps, N. Y. - Mrs. Viola Lusk, who resides just out of the village, is about to begin an action for damages. The amount is reported to be $5000. Not quite a year ago, she fell on an icy sidewalk on West Main street, sustaining slight injuries. She now claims to have suffered a permanent injury to her hip.

James S. Swarthout, manager of the Boston Shoe store on Exchange street, had a narrow escape from a serious accident yesterday noon. He was in the store and was cleaning his revolver, when accidentally the gun was discharged, the bullet grazing the first finger of his left hand and burying itself in the wall. The report of the gun was heard for some distance and quite a few gathered to see what the matter was.

From Geneva Daily Times 29 November 1895

Canandaigua, N. Y. - Ed. Concannon of Victor attempted suicide at the Canandaigua hotel here this morning. The bell boy heard groans coming from his room, and, as the door was locked on the inside, he secured an entrance through the transom, finding Concannon with a terrible gash in his throat, and the room filled with gas that had been turned on by the would-be suicide. Three doctors are now working over him, but his recovery is doubtful. He was intoxicated when he retired last night. He is aged thirty, and unmarried.

From Ontario County Journal 29 November 1895

Monday, William Picket and Ella Picket, husband and wife of Hopewell, met in Justice Frary's office to settle a domestic trouble. Mrs. Picket had a few days before taken $48 from her husband's pocket while the latter was in dreamland. Mrs. Picket explained that he was preparing to desert her and her one-year old child and that she took the money out of necessity. The woman still holds the money and the man will probably change his mind and spend the winter at home.

From Geneva Daily Times 30 November 1895

Canandaigua, N. Y. - Fred E. Smith, a well-known employe of the Thompson planing mill, had the misfortune to "monkey with a buzz saw," or more correctly a planer at the mill Wednesday and three fingers were so badly damaged that it was necessary to amputate them. Drs. Harvey performed the operation.

From Geneva Daily Times 2 December 1895

Canandaigua, N. Y. - Mrs. Thomas Thompson, of West Gibson street, is suffering from burns on her hands and arms, sustained while carrying an exploded lamp and a blazing rug out of her home. The lamp exploded and the oil flew all over the rug. She, with great presence of mind threw the lamp upon the rug and conveyed both out of doors thus saving the house from burning.

From Geneva Daily Times 3 December 1895

Canandaigua, N. Y. - A peculiar attempt at suicide, with an unsuccessful though disastrous result, was made a day or two ago by Mrs. James Cowan, of Gorham street. Mrs. Cowan, who is about 65 years old, resides with her son, James. For some time past she has shown evidence of failing reason, and frequently would tell her son she wanted to go to the poor house. Friday night, she again stated that she would go to the poor house or else she would commit suicide. No particular attention was paid to the remark, and at the usual hour the family retired. Early in the morning the son went to the room where his mother and an invalid sister slept together. His mother was not in bed and the window was open. The horrified young man hastened to the open window and looking out saw his old mother lying on the frozen ground fifteen feet below. The old lady was tenderly taken into the house and Dr. Beahan was summoned. He found she had sustained serious spinal and other injuries and was so nearly frozen to death that it took several hours of hard work to thaw her into life again. The old lady herself said she did not know why she committed the act; but said she was seized with a desire to jump out of the window and gave way to the feeling. Her condition is critical and her recovery is doubtful.

Canandaigua, N. Y. - The rule of three always did prove infallible here and its infallibility is yet upheld. When one accident of a peculiar kind occurs in this place, two others similar are sure to occur. When one death occurs two others are certain to follow. This may be superstition, but it is based on fact. Last Friday, the first attempt at suicide occurred when Ed Concannon of Victor tried to let go his breath, then Friday night Mrs. Cowan jumped from her second story on Gorham street, and injured though did not kill herself. Then last night, it is reported that Mike O'Connell of Pearl street, while in a fit of aberration, seized a pair of shears and endeavored to thrust them through his heart. He was prevented from seriously injuring himself, however, and Drs. Jewett and Hallenbeck were summoned to attend his injuries, and he will recover.

From Ontario County Journal 6 December 1895

At the Canandaigua hotel last Friday morning, Edward Concannon, aged about 30 years, of Mertensia, made an unsuccessful attempt at suicide by cutting his throat. The razor severed the exterior jugular vein and a branch of the carotid artery, but was discovered in time to be saved. Drs. Buell, Hallenbeck and Jewett attended him. It is understood that a love affair lead him to do the deed.

From Geneva Daily Times 7 December 1895

The annual meeting of division No. 1, A. O. H., was held last evening in the rooms of the society over the Times office. Much enthusiasm was shown by the one hundred members present. The election resulted as follows:

President - H. C. Manley
Corresponding Secy - J. J. O'Leary
Financial Secy - P. H. Mulcahy
Treasurer - D. Clements
Standing Committee - Timothy Nylon, Michael Burke,
John Harding, James Moylan, John J. Toole

Repr. to Biennial convention - H. C. Manley
To military division - T. W. Hawkins
Alternate - J. W. White
Sick Committee - Jerry O'Malley, Michael Broderick
and John J. O'Leary

From Geneva Daily Times 13 December 1895

Yesterday afternoon as Patrick Hanlon, a farmer of Seneca Castle, was backing a load of grain into his barn, he slipped and fell beneath the wheel of the wagon, which with the weight of the load passed over his body. Dr. Sargent was called to his aid and found that two of his ribs had been broken and that he had sustained other internal injuries.

From Ontario County Journal 13 December 1895

Naples, N. Y. - Two war widows, Mrs. Minerva A. Tompkins and Mrs. Alonzo M. Weller, have been allowed pensions, the former receiving considerable back pay.

Phelps, N. Y. - A scrapping match took place in the alley back of the Bennett block on Wednesday afternoon, between Harry Taylor and Ed. Joice of Clifton Springs. Officer Schellenger appeared on the scene during the engagement, and with the assistance of Officer Kelly, arrested the men and took them before Justice Severance. Taylor plead not guilty and was discharged, as it was proven that Joice was the aggressor. He was fined $15 or 15 days in jail. Not being able to pay the fine, he was taken to jail.

From Geneva Daily Times 26 December 1895

Canandaigua, N. Y. - The Lizzie Rockwood mystery is cleared up at last. The other night Officer J. W. Booth went to the residence of John Underhill near Rushville and found Lizzie with her three-weeks old baby. He brought her back home to her sorrowing father. The man with whom she went away is now living in town. He is a well-known musician. The Underhills state that on the Sunday night when Lizzie disappeared from home here, this man drove up to their door and asked for board and lodging for the girl whom he represented as the wife of a friend of his, a traveling man named Kelley, who desired to board in a quiet place for awhile. Assurances of a goodly sum for board and their friendship for the young man induced them to admit the girl to their household. Of late the board money has not been forthcoming and the Underhills having learned the true state of affairs divulged the facts and the girl's father promptly sent for her. As the man in the case is married and cannot offer legal reparation for the girl's wrongs, the outcome of the matter can only be conjectured. The girl's father will take the matter to the proper authorities.

From Geneva Daily Times 10 January 1896

Bowlers Organized - Canandaigua bowlers have organized Krautz teams as follows: Capt. Lewis H. Adams, W. H. Fox, Ed. Perego, Fred Chishalen, George G. Smith, P. H. Collins. 2d team, Captain, James Roach, Thomas Baggerly, Augustine Stibble, S. B. Hogan, Bert and Frank Burke. A series of games will be rolled. On Wednesday hereafter the alley's will be reserved for the use of the ladies bowling clubs and other of the "new women," who want to twirl the Lignum Vitae sphere.

From Ontario County Journal 24 January 1896

Phelps, N. Y. - Quite a lively runaway took place on the streets last Thursday afternoon. Some of the owners of high steppers were trotting on the street, among the number being John Sweeney, who lives in the country. He and Gilbert Bogart had just finished a friendly spurt and started to turn around at the band stand to trot back again, when Sweeney's cutter tipped over, throwing him out. His horse immediately turned in onto the sidewalk in front of the bakery, and ran along the sidewalk the whole length of the blocks turning into the road near Dr. Wisewell's. The horse kept on in the road to the Howe corner, turned north on Wayne street, ran as far as Jay street, turned and crossed the street, bringing up at the residence of J. T. Watkins the end of that street. The horse was cut and scratched some, and the cutter quite badly broken, but fortunately no one was injured.

A bob load of children collided with a lamp post on the Chapin street hill Wednesday night. Ray Conyne, who was stearing, received an injury to one leg and a savage cut over one eye. Flossie Thomas, who sat next, was taken from the heap unconscious, but her injuries consisted only of a cut on the knee. Lettie Lohnes injured her hip and ankle, but not seriously. The others on the bob were not injured. The sleigh was going at a tremendous speed when the accident occurred, and that no one was seriously injured is a miracle.

The family of W. W. Coe, Chapin street, had an unpleasant, and what might have been a fatal experience, with coal gas last Sunday morning. The damper on the steam boiler in the cellar became turned Saturday night. Sunday morning, when Mrs. Coe awoke, the house was full of gas but, fortunately, she had left her window up, which doubtless saved her life. She then went to the kitchen, and was returning when she was overcome and remembered no more. Her husband found her lying unconscious on the floor of her bedroom. Dr. McClellan was summoned and applied restoratives, but Mrs. Coe has not yet fully recovered. All members of the family were more or less affected by the gas.

From Geneva Gazette 7 February 1896

The nine-year-old son of George Ramsby was severely injured by an accident while coasting at East Bloomfield last Friday. He struck a tree with great force and was knocked insensible, his skull being fractured over the left eye, producing a dangerous if not fatal wound.

From Ontario County Journal 14 February 1896

Tuesday, Charles Furman, a denizen of the southern part of this town, was brought before Justice of the Peace Christian to answer charges of assault in beating and abusing his wife. Furman is about 23 and his wife, 18. The persons who made the complaint say that the young man had previously engaged his wife thus. He furnished $200 as guarantee that he would hereafter keep the peace and was released.

From Geneva Gazette 21 February 1896

In county court this week Hugh McFarland of Geneva was arraigned and pleaded guilty to the charge of keeping a gambling house. He was fined $100 with the alternative of 100 days in jail. This is the second time the accused has been arraigned on such charge, and Judge Metcalf warned him that if he came before him on a like charge again, he should send him to the penitentiary.

From Geneva Gazette 21 February 1896

Dangerous Accident - Last Saturday afternoon, Philip Taro, a young man of Geneva, attempted to catch upon a freight train at this station as he was in a hurry to reach Geneva, where he is employed in a bakery. Taro did not succeed in boarding the train, but got slung violently from the caboose instead, fortunately clearing the wheels. So great was the momentum he received, that he was slidden and rolled on the rough, icy surface at the side of the track. His clothes were badly torn, one hand was cut and bruised and he received a long gash in the upper part of his thigh. He was given over to the care of Prof. J. L. Cone, who bound up his wounds and accompanied him on a traction line car to the Franklin House at Geneva, where a physician was summoned who took seven stitches in closing the wound mentioned. Taro is said to be an industrious young man, but made the mistake of many in trying to catch upon a moving train. It is claimed that he would not have done so, only that he had been sent to Waterloo on business by his employer and was in haste to get back. Waterloo Observer

From Geneva Daily Times 27 February 1896

The arrest of George Hyatt and Thomas O'Shea was made Tuesday night on a warrant charging them with assaulting Michael Sullivan and Daniel Helms near the corner of Lake and Exchange streets on Saturday night. On a plea of guilty of striking Helms, Hyatt was fined $30. O'Shea declared his innocency and gave bail for his appearance for trial today.

From Geneva Daily Times 7 March 1896

Deroy J. Harkness of Rushville, ex-county clerk, has recently been compelled to submit to the removal of his right eye, that was injured in the war of the rebellion, but which never inconvenienced him till of late.

From Geneva Daily Times 10 March 1896

This morning as Genevans were passing through Exchange street at an early hour at an early hour on their way to business, their attention was drawn to a man who lay across the walk, with his face against the stone pavement, in front of T. W. Hawkin's wholesale liquor store. The sight was a sad one. The man lay in a heap and to all appearances was dead. Several passers by stopped and gazed on him, and it was not long before a crowd had gathered about him. Officer Merry came on the scene and calling a bus and putting him aboard, took him to the station house. His name was given as Charles Probasco. Where he obtained his whiskey is not known. However, the liquor people came in for a severe censure by those who happened to see the apparently lifeless body lying on the side walk at 7 o'clock in the morning, with the thermometer registering 19 degrees above zero.

From Geneva Gazette 13 March 1896

Mrs. Mary O'Boyle, a venerable lady of 80 years and upwards, residing at 35 Grove street, came very near being asphyxiated by coal gas in her bedroom last Tuesday night. The whole house was more or less permeated with the deadly fumes, but the sleeping room of Mrs. O'Boyle seemed to be the worse affected. She was unconscious when discovered, and seemed to be dangerously paralyzed withal. She is the mother of Thos. O'Boyle and grandmother of P. H. O'Boyle, the well-known bookkeeper. (She died Mar 14, 1896).

From Ontario County Journal 20 March 1896

Thomas, youngest son of Isaac Norton, of Rushville, attempted to remove a cartridge from a revolver Wednesday night, when the weapon was discharged and the bullet entered his abdomen, inflicting a dangerous wound. Dr. Beahan was summoned by telephone yesterday, and went to Rushville to operate upon the youngster.

From Ontario County Journal 3 April 1896

Phelps, N. Y. - Henry Severance and H. B. Whitney took a trip in a row boat down the outlet from Welling's mill to Lyons last Monday during the high water. They met with no mishaps and could make rapid progress without going in the channel of the stream. Mr. Whitney had a rifle with him and shot 23 muskrats during the trip. The ride was a very exciting one. They returned via rail, leaving their boat behind.

From Ontario County Journal 10 April 1896

Naples, N. Y. - Cyrus Bardeen, a man of 50 years, was fined on Monday $25 by Justice Clark for an assault upon his wife, he having plead guilty to the charge. The wife was insane at the time and her husband was guarding her preparatory to her being taken to the asylum, but his treatment of her could not be endured by the children, who made the charge. Tuesday, Mr. Bardeen and a son accompanied her to Willard asylum.

From Geneva Daily Times 14 April 1896

Phelps, N. Y. - Saturday afternoon, while Mrs. James Kelley was about her household duties, she left a large pail of boiling water standing on the floor and stepped into another room, during her absence her little three-year-old boy attempted to lift the pail, his foot slipped and the little fellow fell in the boiling water. He was badly burned about the neck and entire length of his back. In many places the flesh almost cleaved from the bone. the attending physician fears that inflammation of the kidneys may result on account of the depth of the burn.

From Ontario County Journal 17 April 1896

Bristol Springs, N. Y. - As Arthur Tozer and family were returning from Naples after attending church on Sunday last, their team became unmanageable and ran away, turning the buggy upside down, breaking an arm for Mrs. Tozer and shaking all the occupants up, although there were no serious injuries except to Mrs. Tozer. The team, in running, jumped into Mr. Nellis' carriage and nearly demolished the vehicle, starting Mr. Nellis' team on the run for home, which they soon reached, but without injuring any of the occupants of the carriage. Miss Alice Tozer, came on Monday from East Bloomfield, where she is teaching, to care for her mother, who is very sore and badly bruised aside from the fractured arm.

From Geneva Daily Times 24 April 1896

This morning Mr. and Mrs. Geo. A. Peel and child came near being asphyxiated by coal gas that came from the furnace in the cellar. Mr. Peel was awakened at 3 o'clock and felt prostrated, but was able to get to the open air and to arouse his wife and sister-in-law who is visiting from Toledo. Dr. Rupert was called, who said that in a half hour more Mrs. Peel, her sister-in-law and the child would have suffocated. All are doing well and will recover from the effects, although they are still very sick. Mr. Peel is able to get out. Mr. Peel was first aroused by his little child who waking up said she was sick and got up. When she got out of bed she fell on the floor. Mr. Peel got up and he feeling faint fell over also. He succeeded in regaining himself sufficiently to go out and arouse his neighbor, David Nester, who ran after the doctor.

At six o'clock last evening, while returning to his home on West street, Edward Johnson, an old citizen, 90 years of age, fell across the car tracks on Pulteney street and was unable to arise. He was found a few moments after by Clinton Long and Joseph Belford who assisted him to his feet and conducted him home. He was very
feeble and had not strength enough to regain his feet.

From Ontario County Journal 24 April 1896

Last Friday, Mrs. F. Wayland Hopkins left a baby carriage with her child in it standing on the platform in front of the Gilbert jewelry store. A gust of wind caught the raised top and blew the carriage off the platform; it was overturned and the child was thrown to the sidewalk, but, fortunately, was not seriously injured.

From Ontario County Journal 1 May 1896

Phelps, N. Y. - Mrs. Wellington K. Sayre, a wealthy and prominent lady of St. John's church, has signified her intention of giving a new two-manual pipe organ to that church as soon as an organ room can be made ready for its reception. Miss Sarah Hobbie, another wealthy lady member of that church, has donated sufficient money to purchase an additional tubular bell to add to the number already given to that church. She has also made a generous donation to the building fund of the society.

Tuesday, the seven-year-old boy of Bert Foster strayed away from home. His whereabouts could not be ascertained and preparations were being made by the anxious parents for a systematic search when a communication from his grandfather in Gorham informed them of his arrival there Wednesday. He had walked all the way, and was a very weary youngster when he arrived at his relatives' home, about 10 miles from here.

From Ontario County Journal 8 May 1896

Last Friday, Miss Helen VanGelder, daughter of George VanGelder, a Hopewell farmer, was seriously injured by a runaway team belonging to a farmer named McCabe. Miss VanGelder was driving toward Canandaigua when the team that was behind her became uncontrollable and came dashing up, taking off two wheels of her carriage. She was thrown to the ground and rendered insensible. She was taken care of by neighbors but sustained painful bruises and, it is feared, internal injuries.

From Geneva Gazette 8 May 1896

To Joseph W. White, Castle street, was issued the first liquor license granted in Ontario county under the Raines law, and the official from whom it emanates believes it to be the first issued in the State. It is dated April 29, at which time "Joe" was on hand with his $300 fee. Mr. White's is a wholesale as well as retail place of business, 158 Castle street, enjoying a good trade and conforming strictly to the provisions and restrictions of law.

From Ontario County Journal 22 May 1896

Saturday the second kite-flying contest of Union High school pupils was held at the Lansing field on North Pearl street, and was witnessed by a large number of spectators. The contestants were: Albert Andrews, Fred Leighton, and Chas. Harvey Jewett, fliers of tailless kites; Willie Cox, Robert and Henry Chesebro, Floyd Gunnison, Jim Pierson, Verne Lee, Stanley Wilson, Charles Anderson, Edgar Marks, Melvin Weller, Charlie Schauble, fliers of tailed kites. After due deliberation the judges, Messrs. C. F. Milliken, H. S. Hubbell and C. W. Darling, awarded the prizes thus: For best flying tailed kite, Floyd Gunnison, first; Edgar Marks, second; best tailless kite, Albert Andrews; handsomest kite, Willie Cox. The prizes were a pocket knife and three boys' books.

Last Thursday night, James Shannon, a Gorham farm hand who has committed numberless breaches of the peace, and who is under bonds to keep the peace, got on another tear, and going to the house of William Hoffman, a Seneca farmer, who formerly resided here, broke into the house, and proceeding to the cellar, filled up on cider and went to the barn to sleep off the effects. When aroused by Hoffman next morning, he attacked him and Hoffman came to town for a warrant. While he was away, Shannon went into the house again and smashed furniture and dishes in a reckless manner. Officer Sleght got after him and finally captured him at Geneva. Shannon waived examination in Judge Frary's court on Tuesday and will await grand jury disposal.

On last Saturday morning at about 10 o'clock there was a difference of opinion between Anna Forbis and Oliver Scantlin, of the town of Hopewell, which resulted in the latter's waiving examination and giving bail to appear at any time when wanted in Justice Frary's court on Wednesday. Miss Forbis alleges that Scantlin assaulted her with a bludgeon in the shape of a heavy, hardwood cultivator handle, which he applied to the back of her head with such force that she did not recover consciousness until the middle of the afternoon. The casus belli was a neckyoke which Scantlin attempted to borrow from the Kimball farm, where Miss Forbis officiated as housekeeper. The complainant says that on her refusal to lend it, the defendant assaulted her as aforesaid. The defendant admits that he attempted to borrow the neckyoke and did so borrow it, but that instead of his assaulting the lady, she pasted him with a plank, seriously bruising his arm, which he exhibited in court. He says that she suffers from attacks of fits and attributes her unconsciousness on the day aforesaid to that cause.

From Ontario County Journal 29 May 1896

Academy, N. Y. - The children and friends of Mrs. Ebenezer Covert met at Charles P. Johnson's on the 23d inst., to celebrate with her, her 79th birthday.

It is announced that the Canandaigua Jrs. will play the Clifton Springs Jrs. at the fair grounds tomorrow afternoon. The Canandaigua Jrs. are composed of the following players: Frank Welch, 1 b.; Jack Hogan, p.; Chas. Masseth, c.; Elmer Brown, 3 b.; Jas. Woodside, ss.; John Curran, rf.; Thos. Martin, cf.; Jas. Roach, lf.; Frank Needhan, 2 b.; Thos. Lynch, manager.

Tuesday morning James Rouse, driver of the Bristol stage, was loading freight at the Central-Hudson freight house, and when he went into the building leaving the team unfastened, the horses, one of which was a spirited colt, ran away. They fetched up short against the public watering trough in front of the Webster house and left the stage there piled in a heap on the trough. The horses were then easily captured. The stage was considerably damaged, the horses sustained cuts and bruises and the iron trough was knocked literally "off its base," and the heavy iron bowl was split by the force of the concussion. The team's wild run down Main street created much excitement in the crowded thoroughfare.

From Ontario County Journal 5 June 1896

Bristol, N. Y. - Moses Tubbs, of this town, celebrated the 82d anniversary of his birth on Tuesday of this week. Mrs. Hannah Wheeler, aged 86, and Mrs. M. C. Newton, aged 75, were among the guests.

From Ontario County Journal 19 June 1896

Yesterday, at about 1 o'clock p.m., as the trains from the west were pulling into this village, Roy McKenzie, an employee of the Lisk works, was walking on the tracks just west of the Main street crossing. Hearing a train behind him, as he was crossing the West Avenue bridge, he stepped from the Batavia track to the Auburn track and was struck by the 12:55 train on that branch. He was hurled to the edge of the ties, where he hung until the train was stopped and run back. He was taken to the Central Hudson baggage room where he was examined by Doctors Hallenbeck and Hawley. When removed to his home on West Gibson street, it was ascertained that his skull had been fissured in two places and that his right ankle was terribly bruised. The physicians believe that the inner plate of the skull is not fractured and express hope of his recovery.

From Geneva Gazette 26 June 1896

Mary Sykes, head waitress at the Kirkwood, when riding her bicycle Monday afternoon, going down Clinton street hill and losing control of it, collided with a tree, was thrown off and broke her left leg just above the ankle. She was taken to the hospital for treatment. The wheel was injured and her gold watch broken. She is likely to be confined some weeks. Advertiser

From Ontario County Journal 26 June 1896

Phelps, N. Y. - Noah Johnson, a young man with not a first-class reputation, attempted to elope with his sister-in-law, Miss Mary Mason, 18 years old, a week ago. He drove away alone in a buggy, telling his wife that he was going to work. Miss Mason, who is the mother of a little child, went to Geneva on the cars, and there Johnson met her. One of the horses he drove was purchased of H. N. Pontius of Oaks Corners, which was only partly paid for, Pontius having a bill of sale on it. The harness and buggy did not belong to him either. Pontius appeared before Esquire Severance and had a warrant issued for his arrest, which was placed in officer C. H. Landon's hands. It was thought that Johnson would go to Albany, where the mother resides or to Sayre, Pa. The officer took the former route and secured his man at Albany. He was brought before Esquire Severance for examination on the charge of larceny, which was not sustained, and he was discharged. Later he was arrested by order of Poormaster J. M. White for nonsupport of his family. He was put under $200 bonds for support, in default of which he was committed to Canandaigua jail to meditate on his crooked ways. His wife and children are in destitute circumstances.

From Ontario County Journal 3 July 1896

Naples, N. Y. - A runaway occurred on Monday morning when the horse of George Richards of Academy, broke loose from a hitching post, turned about the buggy, colliding with a barber pole and upsetting it, and in a second the horse had cast off every vestige of the harness and trotted off down the street quite unconcernedly. It looks as though he had done it before and liked it.

Shortsville, N. Y. - Ed. Carson, a farmer residing near Chapinville, met with a serious accident here on Wednesday. His horse ran off the embankment on the east side of the outlet bridge and both horse and rider went down about 20 feet. Mr. Carson was very severely hurt about the head and was carried to the hotel, and at night was removed to his home.

From Geneva Gazette 24 July 1896

While Robert Kane and his oldest daughter were driving from Canandaigua to their home east of the village Tuesday night, their buggy was struck by the 8:10 passenger train from the east, while they attempted to cross the Central Hudson tracks near the Poor House. They were hurled into the air, and landed in a field twenty-five feet distant. Mr. Kane and his daughter were not seriously injured. No bones were broken. They will recover. The buggy was thoroughly demolished. The horse succeeded in breaking loose and escaped injury.

From Ontario County Journal 31 July 1896

While William Belcher, of Allen's Hill, was crossing the bridge over the Beebe creek, about three miles south of the village, with a new traction engine and separator, the bridge gave way, letting engine and separator down several feet to the bottom of the creek. Mr. Belcher and another man, who were riding on the engine, went down with it, but fortunately escaped without serious injury. The bridge was a new one, erected a short time ago by Ira Clemens, the highway commissioner. The flaw seemed to be in a bolt holding one end of the needle beam in position. The engine and separator have been taken from the creek, not as badly damaged as was at first they were thought to be. One hundred dollars will cover damages to the engine.

Tuesday afternoon, while Peleg Tuttle, a fish monger, hailing from Bristol, was watering his fiery steed at the Webster house watering trough, the pesky animal took advantage of a momentary relief from his bridle to bolt, and as a consequence, the more or less fresh fish, fruit and a lot of choice hen fruit were distributed at intervals along Main street. The wagon was overturned but not injured. The horse was not disturbed in the least by the episode, although the mind of the driver was.

From Geneva Daily Times 12 August 1896

John Noonan, while unloading stone on the lake road yesterday afternoon, had the misfortune to have his hand caught between the stones. He was taken to Dr. McCarthy's office, where it was found that the first joint of the middle finger of the right hand would have to be amputated. The operation was performed by Dr. McCarthy. Mr. Noonan is out today and is feeling better.

From Ontario County Journal 14 August 1896

Several months ago Rosie Mack, wife of Charles Mack, of South Bristol, ran away from her home and eloped to Canada with George Muck, also of South Bristol. After a short time the couple returned to South Bristol, living together as Mr. and Mrs. Muck. The woman had taken with her the little daughter of Mack. Last May Officer Sleght aided Mack to secure possession of the child, but about 10 days ago Mr. and "Mrs." Muck secured possession of the little girl once more. Saturday Officers Sleght and Cavan went to South Bristol and arrested Muck and the woman who were brought here. The hearing was set down for Monday night but was postponed til today.

"Hank" Duffy, a well-known Canandaiguan, cut his throat with suicidal intent Monday night. He is alive yet, notwithstanding the fact that he drew his razor from ear to ear inflicting a gash in which Dr. Hallenbeck took 12 stitches, and which is said to have severed the external jugular vein. Duffy had been having a row with his wife, whom he is alleged to have seriously assaulted. Neighbors interfered and Duffy vented his spite upon himself. He was intoxicated at the time.

Monday morning Ed Elwell, after a protracted spree, created a rumpus at his home on Beeman street, and swore he would kill someone unless he was immediately given possession of $20 he suspected some of his family of secreting from him. He went to Cooley's to buy a revolver. In the meantime, Officer Yaw was notified of the threat, and followed Elwell to the hardware store, and came upon him just as he was coming out of the store with the revolver. Yaw placed him under arrest and was proceeding to the police station with him when Elwell's daughter chanced along, and Elwell immediately produced the gun and wanted his daughter to keep it for him. Yaw took possession of the weapon and landed his man in the lockup, where he was given an opportunity to sober up.

From Ontario County Journal 21 August 1896

North Bloomfield, N. Y. - Among townspeople who have been rusticating at Hemlock lake the past week are: Mr. and Mrs. O. A. Young, Miss Ida Young, Miss Edith Young, Miss Millie Pierce, Miss Irene Martin, Mr. and Mrs. Ed Croft, Jr., Addison Pierce, Lewis Pierce, Harry Allen, Edwin Holmes, Platt Bond, Clarence Martin.

From Geneva Daily Times 26 August 1896

The Geneva junior football team was organized Monday evening and adopted the name Columbia. Michael Brennan, the late business manager of the Geneva ball team, was unanimously elected manager, and John Neary was made captain. The line up will be as follows: Full back, William Groden; half backs, John Neary, William Brennan; quarterback, Edward Broderick; center, Charles Sweeney; guards, Thomas De Vaney, Richard Mellale; tackles, Peter Fleming, Charles Lockwood; ends, Richard Cumming, Thomas Welsch. Mr. Brennan will obtain a number of games with Waterloo, Seneca Falls, Union Springs, Canandaigua, Penn Yan and other teams in this vicinity. The team will begin training at once and under the skillful direction of their coach will undoubtedly be one of the best teams in this county.

From Geneva Daily Times 29 August 1896

Wednesday evening the Gorham Dramatic Company, of this place, played "Uncle Josh" at Potter Center and on their way home about a mile this side of Potter a heavy rain storm came up and it being very dark, the driver could not see the road. The team ran off an embankment about five feet high, throwing the occupants into the ditch. Miss Annabel Thomas, Mrs. C. T. Loudon and Miss Lida Buckelews were injured, several bad sprains sustained. Dr. Newman, of Potter, attended the injured.

From Geneva Daily Times 30 August 1896

Irving Alsop, who attempted suicide last Tuesday night, was arrested last evening by Policeman Merry on complaint of his wife. He was intoxicated and when he went home he commenced to abuse her. He plead guilty to intoxication when arraigned before Judge Smelzer this morning and was fined ten dollars or ten days in Ontario county jail.

From Ontario County Journal 4 September 1896

East Bloomfield, N. Y. - The second annual reunion of the Wheeler families, which was held at the home of O. F. Wheeler, Sr., last Saturday, was largely attended. About 150 persons signed their names on the registry book. A business meeting was called by the President to elect officers for the coming year. H. E. Wheeler of South Bloomfield was elected president; and H. E. Wheeler of East Bloomfield, secretary and treasurer; committee on time and place for holding the next reunion are William Doyle of Bristol, John B. Wheeler and O. H. Swift of East Bloomfield, committee on refreshments, Miss Mabel Wheeler, Mrs. R. M. Lee, Mrs. Byron Simmons, Mrs. L. F. Sutherland.

Phelps, N. Y. - Grover Humphrey, who was accidentally shot by Leonard Partridge a week ago, is getting along finely, and is able to walk with but little difficulty.

The Pierce family held their 6th annual reunion, Saturday, August 29, at the residence of R. Melvin Pierce, in the town of Canandaigua. The day was all that could be desired for such a gathering. Seventy-four friends and relatives were present. After having dinner served on the lawn, the following officers were elected for the next year, viz: Henry Pierce, president; R. M. Pierce, vice-president; William Pierce, secretary; Warren Pierce, Adrian Brandow and H. L. Pierce as committee. The remainder of the day was spent in social chats, singing and music.

From Geneva Daily Times 10 September 1896

A number of friends from the Baptist church, and representing many others who could not be present, called upon Mr. George H. Phillips at his delightful South Main street home last Monday afternoon in honor of his eightieth birthday. The pastor of the church, Rev. J. H. Barbour, in a most earnest and feeling manner, expressed to Mr. Phillips the heartfelt congratulations and best wishes of his many friends, and as a slight token of their esteem, presented him with a silver loving cup of beautiful design and suitably engraved. Although completely taken by surprise, Mr. Phillips responded in well chosen words of appreciation. After singing by the company, and a prayer by Rev. Dr. Moore, all were invited to the piazza overlooking the lake and beautiful grounds, where they were served with refreshments by Mrs. Walter A. Clarke, assisted by her daughters and friends. Mr. and Mrs. Phillips, seven years ago, celebrated the golden anniversary of their marriage, and a delightful feature of this visit of Monday afternoon, was the presence of Mrs. Phillips and the warm greetings extended by her to all present. At Mr. Phillips request, Dr. Moore read an original poem which had been written and read by Dr. Moore at this golden wedding. Before leaving, the company were entertained with some choice vocal selections rendered by visiting relatives of the household.

From Geneva Daily Times 14 September 1896

Canandaigua, N. Y. - Mrs. Phillip Goldsmith of Canandaigua took an overdose of morphine, with, as is supposed, suicidal intent, Saturday morning. Drs. Beahan and Hallenbeck have attended her and she is now out of danger, although it was at first thought she would die. The woman, it is said, had a row with her husband on Friday night, and a rough and tumble fight is alleged to have occurred in which she finally floored her husband with a blow on the head from a club. Saturday morning he left the house vowing he would have her arrested. She took the morphine and was soon found in an unconscious condition. Her recovery was extremely doubtful for a time, but she was finally resuscitated.

From Geneva Daily Times 18 September 1896

At a meeting held last night at the Nester hose room, the Lakeside football players elected William McDonough manager, Patrick Toole, secretary; S. West, treasurer; James Brannan was elected captain. Those who will try for places are: Pat Neary, end; H. Toole, quarter back J. Kearns, end and tackle; S. West, center rush; J. Preston, guard, F. Connell, guard; T. Brannan, quarter and half; M. Devaney, halfback; J. Brannan, fullback; C. Coursey, half back; A. Vanbrunt, guard; Pat Toole, tackle; Joe Hooker, fullback; F. Wilson, quarter back.

From Geneva Daily Times 21 September 1896

A runaway occurred on Saturday evening at about seven o'clock on Castle street. The horse belonging to Carver Jones and attached to his delivery wagon in some way became unmanageable and got away from its driver. It ran upon the walk at King's livery stable and continued on the walk until it came to the Kirkwood corner where the wagon caught on an iron railing and was separated from the horse, leaving part of the harness. The horse ran to the lake and then up the railroad tracks to the Franklin house alley uninjured. The wagon was badly smashed, three of its wheels being broken.

From Geneva Daily Times 28 September 1896

While sitting on their stoop at their residence on the corner of North and Wadsworth streets Saturday at noon, Peter Reddy and sister heard someone yelling as if in danger. Mr. Reddy went where he thought the noise came from and found, instead of a child yelling, that a large woman had fallen in a cistern. He immediately got her out. It seems she was drawing water from her cistern and the top gave way and let her in. It was Mrs. J. A. Lock. She was drenched and very much scared.

From Geneva Gazette 16 October 1896

Mr. G. A. Shimer and Mrs. Henry Dieteman of Geneva, are heirs among others of a very wealthy uncle recently deceased at Auburn and who died without making a will. It is said that the share of these two Genevans in such estate will be from $20,000 to $40,000 each. We earnestly hope that their expectations may be realized.

The family Charles Alcock narrowly escaped asphyxiation by coal gas last Friday night at their residence on Milton St. All, from oldest to youngest, were affected by the fumes when awakened at a late hour. The deadly gas came from the steam heating boiler. Timely discovery and opening doors and windows to fresh air averted threatened danger.

From Geneva Daily Times 16 October 1896

A farm wagon and team belonging to Dewane Bishop, of Phelps, was standing in front of Thos. Kane's grocery this morning, when the horses became frightened at something unknown and ran down Exchange street at a furious rate. In their mad pursuit they struck a wagon belonging to J. Sutton, of Hopewell, breaking one wheel and damaging it otherwise. They also narrowly escaped striking the Franklin house 'bus and several other wagons. As they came near the railroad, Officer Elmer Merry saw them and made a leap for the head of one of the horses and caught them, although they carried him some distance. He succeeded in stopping them. The wagon contained sixty bushels of potatoes, and sustained but little, if any, damage.

From Ontario County Journal 16 October 1896

Phelps, N. Y. - Bertha McDougall, 14 years of age, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Chas. McDougall, was sent to the Sheltering home at Syracuse last Tuesday. Her being sent to this institution was the result of an examination before Esquire Severance at the request of Agent Gibbs of the Humane Society. The question arose as to her being under proper guardianship at home, and it was decided that she was not. She was taken to the shelter where she will be brought under good influences.

From Geneva Gazette 23 October 1896

Mrs. John T. Parker of Geneva suffered severe injuries by a fall while transferring from a Northern Central to a New York Central train at Canandaigua one day last week. Report has it that her nose was broken and face severely scratched. She proceeded on her journey to Geneva where Dr. DeLaney treated her professionally, after which she accompanied her niece, Mrs. John C. Ansley, to her home in Seneca. Mrs. Parker is a sister-in-law of S. H. and Edgar Parker and aged about 75 years. Such an accident may result seriously to a person of her advanced age.

From Geneva Gazette 30 October 1896

Monday morning last, as William Phillips, driver for T. Beard & Son, was coming out from Goble Bro.'s coal yard on Torrey Park, the front wheels of the truck struck a pitch hole, which caused the truck to come to a sudden stop. Phillips was thrown from his seat between the horses. They became frightened and ran, throwing Phillips underneath the truck. The wheels passed over his head, rendering him unconscious. He was taken to the hospital and will probably recover. The team, after running a short distance, was stopped.

From Geneva Daily Times 17 November 1896

Clifton Springs, N. Y. - The prevalence of diphtheria in this community is causing much alarm. Seven cases have resulted in the family of Mr. and Mrs. George Lisk and within a period of 48 hours, four of the their six children died with the dread disease. The disease broke out in their home Friday and Sunday afternoon the fourth of the little ones was buried. Their ages ranged from 2 to 6 years. When it was first discovered what the disease was two of the children that had not yet come down with it were taken to the home of their grandmother, Mrs. DeLarme, for safety, but shortly after their removal, they showed symptoms of the disease and are now in critical condition. Mrs. Lisk is also very ill with the same disease and almost frantic with grief. Both houses are quarantined.

From Ontario County Journal 20 November 1896

One of the liveliest runaways seen in town for some time past was that of Monday when a team belonging to James McJannett, an Academy farmer, took fright at a passing train, as the driver pulled up to wait for the train to go across Main street. The animals turned about, breaking off one of the forward wheels and precipitating part of the load of baled hops, and the driver, Charles Jordan, to the ground. Jordan pluckily hung on to the reins and endeavored to stop the runaway team, but it dragged him into Niagara street before he could bring it to a stop in front of the Journal office. It appeared for a moment, when the frightened animals cramped the wagon, breaking the wheel off and dumping part of their load, as if Jordan was to be hurled beneath the falling bales of heavy hops and crushed, but he bobbed up serenely, although he had a narrow escape. The wagon and hops were somewhat damaged, the latter by the mud, in which the bales fell.

From Ontario County Journal 4 December 1896

Reed's Corners, N. Y. - Myron Boardman, who lived southwest of here, left his home on Thursday of last week, and his family supposed him to be going hunting. He was last seen down near the lake, and although fifty men have been looking for him for several days, no trace of him has yet been found.

From Ontario County Journal 11 December 1896

Naples, N. Y. - Geo. B. Johnson, a totally disabled old veteran, has been allowed an increase from $10 to $12 per month pension. The claim was rejected in July on the strength of the report of the examining board at Canandaigua, but an earnest protest by the friends of the old man, procured a special examination of the case and the claim was quickly allowed. Had not $12 been the maximum legal rate he would have received twice that sum. The illiberality of the Canandaigua board provoked much severe criticism in this locality; not only in this case, but in many others.

Return to Ontario County Homepage

Updated 1 February 2009