From Ontario County Times 21 January 1885

Mr. Thomas Thompson
and Mr. Edward Rouse, of this village, who have been visiting their old homes in England, are receiving congratulations on their safe return. They arrived in town yesterday morning. Mr. Thompson has brought back with him his aged father, who intends to spend the rest of his days in this country.



From Ontario County Journal 23 January 1885

A team belonging to George Curtis, of Cheshire, started off hurriedly without a driver from in front of Smith Bros. & Co.'s flour mill, dashed down Pleasant street to Saltonstall, along the latter to Main. Crossing Main street, the animals took the sidewalk near Crane's undertaking rooms. Nobody appeared in the way to get killed, however, and they took the road again at Bristol street. At Paul's drug store they once more ran on to the sidewalk and went past the store windows, in frightful proximity, at a mad gallop up to Chapin street, down which they turned, and started for home. Although there were a number of people in the street at that time, Wednesday noon, no one was injured.



From Geneva Gazette 23 January 1885

Mr. Edwin DeRuyter met with a serious accident in Canandaigua on Sunday. His horse ran away; he was thrown out of his cutter on Main street and when picked up was unconscious, but at last accounts was in a fair way to recovery.



The second regular meeting of the Geneva Choral Union was held in Robinson's Hall last Tuesday evening. about thirty being in attendance. A constitution and by-laws were adopted, and the following officers elected for a term of one year. President, Chas Freund; vice-president, T. M. Atchley; secretary, John L. Bennett; treasurer, John De F. Patterson; musical director, M. Sheehan; board of business directors, W. B. Parker and Edgar Parker.



From Ontario County Times 28 January 1885

The Messenger says: The aged mother of Sheriff Hiram Peck lives at Oaks Corners. Recently she was "surprised" by a number of neighbors and friends, who went to her residence to celebrate the 88th anniversary of her birth. It is said that "Mrs. Peck is almost as smart as a girl, and says she thinks she could walk 14 miles in a day."



A serious runaway accident occurred in West Bloomfield last week Wednesday. Mr. and Mrs. Charles Cain were thrown from a wagon, the former suffering the fracture of three ribs and the latter of an arm.



From Ontario County Journal 30 January 1885

West Bloomfield, N. Y. - Mr. Chas. Kane and wife
met with a serious accident last Wednesday. While returning from his brother-in-law's, John Palmer, their team started to run, and in turning into their own yard the seat upset, throwing both out, breaking Mrs. Kane's arm near the shoulder and fracturing several of Mr. Kane's ribs and otherwise injuring him internally.



Centerfield, N. Y. - Mr. Charles Cochran met with a serious accident on Saturday of last week, while cutting hay with a cutting box. He got his hand caught in the knives in some way and cut his thumb so badly that it was found necessary to have it amputated. Dr. Nichols was the attending physician.



From Naples Record 4 February 1885

Last Thursday evening Isaac Trembly, at Bristol Springs, broke his left collar bone; he went to the cellar and stumbling over something fell striking his shoulder against a post. Dr. Conley reduced the fracture, and Mr. Trembly is doing as well as could be expected.



From Ontario County Times 18 February 1885

Shortsville, N. Y. -  Mr. Frank S. Bidwell
met with severe and painful accident last Saturday which threatens to deprive him of one of his fingers. While assisting in handling a barrel of kerosene, it slipped and fell in such a manner as to crush one finger near the knuckle joint and bruise and cut the other fingers of that hand. He is attended by Doctor Burroughs.



From Ontario County Journal 27 February 1885

A. R. Smith,
son of Franklin Smith of Port Gibson, returning from Clifton Springs one night a while ago, got into a snow drift; the horse plunged, threw the boy and fell upon him, breaking his leg between the knee and ankle. The boy remounted the animal and rode him home. Failing to arouse the family, he put the horse out unaided. His mother, in pulling his boot off, got the bone nearly in place, and Dr. Imeson the next day reduced the fracture.



From Rochester Democrat & Chronicle 28 February 1885

It was yesterday learned that May Sellack, the woman from Geneva, who is looking for her bigamist husband, visited Canandaigua, and after seeing William P. Morley, made affidavit to the effect that he was not the individual to whom she was married. This relieves Mr. Morley from the suspicions of the police.



From Ontario County Journal 13 March 1885

The following are the names of the Overseers of Highways for the town of Canandaigua, appointed by the Commissioners of Highways March 10, 1885:

District

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
33
34
37
38

Name

Lyman Brown
Samuel Robinson
G. B. Sackett
Thaddeus Wheeler
Abraham Risser
John Smith
Spencer J. Sutherland
L. H. Tillotson
Bradford S. Baker
Ira P. Cribb
George Organ
E. A. Mullen
Melvin Pierce
M. B. Linsley
Wm. G. Miller
Frank Buchanan
Wm. Anderson
A. H. White
Cassius Sutherland
James Bowdy
Charles Freer
Abel Haskell
Spencer L. Curtis
Henry C. Simmons
Chas T. Sawyer
Rudolph Lenn
Henry Metcalf
Henry Brooks
Thomas McKinna
George Higley
M. A. Parmalee
Chas. B. Salisbury
Olney Padelford
Charles Chase
Post Office

Canandaigua
    "
    "
    "
    "
    "
    "
    "
    "
    "
    "
Cheshire
Canandaigua
    "
    "
    "
    "
    "
    "
Cheshire
    "
Canandaigua
    "
Centerfield
Cheshire
Canandaigua
    "
    "
    "
Academy
Canandaigua
Cheshire
Padelfords
Cheshire

District

39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
61
62
63
64
65
67
68
70
71
72
73
74
Name

Frank Hunn
Robert Herman
George Smith
A. J. Emerson
John Tufts
George Goff
Enos Booth
Asahel Stetson
George Adams
Jonathn Monks
T. C. Townsend
Levi S. Osborne
Chester Welsh
Thos. McEntyre, Jr.
Converse McMillan
John Tiffany
Wm. Jeudevine
James Coy
Thomas Berry
Charles Daniels
Thompson Powers
Byron Mapes
Samuel Vance
Mark H. Montanye
Alanson Willis
Alonzo McCrady
Frank Sisson
John McNamara
Marcus Simonds
Leonard Phillips
N. S. Case
Robert Rainey
Walter Parker
Post Office

Canandaigua
    "
Cheshire
Canandaigua
Academy
Cheshire
Canandaigua
    "
    "
Academy
Cheshire
    "
Canandaigua
    "
    "
    "
    "
Academy
Canandaigua
    "
Cheshire
Canandaigua
    "
Cheshire
Canandaigua
Centerfield
Cheshire
Canandaigua
Cheshire
    "
Candandaigua
Padelford
Canandaigua




From Ontario County Times 25 March 1885

By invitation a company of relatives and friends gathered at the home of Hon. David Pickett in Gorham, on Tuesday, the 17th inst., in honor of his eightieth birthday, he having completed his four score years the Sunday previous. It was fully carried out as designed, a complete surprise to him. The presentation of a gold-headed cane, with a few well chosen words by Fred L. Cody, a grandson, in behalf of the grandchildren, formed a pleasing feature of the day. Three children, seven grandchildren, and one great-grandchild were of the number present, four children with the mother having passed over the "river." Mr. Pickett is one of the oldest settlers in the town, having lived upon the same farm for sixty-five years. He has seen his children and grandchildren grow up in the same homestead, and now in his declining years kind hearts and loving hands are ever ready to minister to his comfort. May his last days be full of rest and peace.


 
From Ontario County Journal 27 March 1885

During the temporary illness of Mr. Nelson S. Case, last week, Mrs. Case undertook the task of feeding a horse at the barn, and while so doing, she unfortunately had a leg broken, either by a kick from the horse or through a fall. Without assistance she crawled over the frozen ground to the house. Dr. Beahan, who happened to be driving by the house about this time, was called in and reduced the fracture. Mrs. Case is improving nicely, and it is hoped that she may entirely recover from her painful accident.


From Neapolitan Record 1 April 1885

Archie F. Hotchkiss
was about town the last of the week, on crutches; this is the first time since the tree fell on him that he has been able to get out.



John Hinkcley, the father of the late Mrs. Hotchkiss, was a lineal descendant of Samuel Hinckley, who was born in England and settled at Cape Cod, Mass., in 1635. Mrs. Hotchkiss was the seventh generation. All our middle-aged and older residents will remember Mr. HInckley. He used to tell us stories of the Revolution when we were boys! He lived in the little house second south from the M. E. church.



Thursday afternoon, March 26th, as Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Latting were crossing the iron bridge of the outlet near Shortsville. their horse took fright and jumped from the side of the bridge, down about 12 feet, demolishing the cutter and seriously injuring the occupants. Mr. Latting was taken to the nearest house, unconscious, and the lady was much bruised. They were taken home, physicians summoned, and all is being done for their comfort that can be. Mr. Latting's shoulder is broken, and Mrs. Latting had three ribs fractured. Jacob Latting is an uncle of Frank L. Clark and Mrs. J. L. Clark of Ingleside is Mrs. Latting's sister. These sufferers have many friends in this vicinity who wish them speedy recovery.



From Ontario County Journal 3 April 1885

Seneca Castle, N. Y. - Mr. and Mrs. Youngs
desire to tender their thanks to Charles Lauterman, James Finger, John Lauterman, Will Coburn, John Galager, Jess Coburn and George Minnell, members of the Seneca Castle Volunteer Band, for the music furnished on the evening of the 25th. We assure them that it was highly appreciated by us and seemed to be much enjoyed by our guests. Charley's horn seemed a little out of tune, or perhaps he was out of practice, which occasioned the apparent discord; nevertheless he did well, which may be said of all the members of the band. We would recommend them to any of your readers who desire their favor, they are strictly volunteers and don't ask or expect pay for their services.



East Bloomfield Station, N. Y. - Last Friday Frank Fairchild, accompanied by Dr. Partridge, went to Buffalo and had the great toe of his left foot taken off, on which a cancer was growing fast. He is now doing well.



From Geneva Gazette 10 April 1885

The Geneva Brass Band --
The Geneva Brass Band have reorganized for the season of 1885 with the following members:

Fred DeMott - E flat cornet
Fred L. Smith - B flat cornet
Mr. J. Frost - B flat cornet
Austin Mead - B flat cornet
Lewis Mead - solo alto
D. Harrington - 1st alto
Harry Philips - baritone
Louis Bushman - 1st tenor
Frank Peel - 2nd tenor
Mort R. Cole - tuba
Burt Brown - tenor drum
Jos. Gerue - bass drum
W. H. Alleman continues as manager.

As will be seen from the above, this band numbers among its members some of the finest musicians in this section of the State, and there is every prospect that it will as heretofore take the lead.



From Ontario County Journal 17 April 1885

East Bloomfield, N. Y. - Edward Totman
had his hand badly crushed last Friday while engaged in coupling cars. Fortunately he took out an accident insurance policy only about four weeks ago.



From Ontario County Times 22 April 1885

Mr. Frank Smith
of this village, who was to have started last week for Minneapolis to join the base ball club of that city, poisoned one of his feet by wearing colored hosiery and is confined to his bed in this village.



From Ontario County Times 13 May 1885

Seneca Castle, N. Y. -
On the 6th instant, a gathering of the Esty family took place at the old homestead of Aaron B. Esty, now owned by his son, Sibley, to celebrate the eightieth birthday of their mother, Mrs. Mary Esty. There were thirty-six persons present, all but four of whom were the immediate descendants of Mrs. Esty. Four sons and one daughter, all the living children, were present. Mrs. Esty was the mother of eight children, six sons and two daughters. Nearly the whole of her married life, extending over a period of sixty years, has Mrs. Esty lived on this farm, and here she and her husband, who died about two years since at the age of eighty-one years, reared their family to positions of influence and respectability. They are honored as useful members of society and the church of Christ. Eighteen grandchildren were present on this happy occasion and eight were absent. Five great-grandchildren were present and one was absent. It was a very interesting occasion and one that was calculated to call forth from their hearts emotions of gratitude to their Heavenly Father for his goodness to them as a family. Mrs. Rickers and her two daughters from Auburn, and Mrs. Lewis from Phelps, intimate friends of the family, were present to aid in festivities of this interesting occasion.



From Ontario County Times 20 May 1885

Shortsville, N. Y. - 
Quite a lively runaway occurred in Littleville on Monday afternoon. Mr. James S. Pettit's horse, while standing before a buggy, became frightened and ran to the upper crossing, where a freight train that happened to pass "just in the nick of time" stopped him, and he was secured by the crossing tender, Mr. P. Hamilton. Mr. Geo. Parmele, while endeavoring to stop the frightened animal, was struck and knocked down, and the buggy wheel passed over his head, cutting a deep gash in the scalp that bled profusely. He was otherwise bruised but how seriously it is yet too early to tell.



From Ontario County Journal 22 May 1885

It has several times been demonstrated that the article known as "Rough on Rats" is equally rough on human beings if taken into the stomach. John H. Finn, who formerly kept the Ocean Oyster House at the corner of Main and Chapin streets, polished off a dose of "Rough on Rats" Thursday night last, but the fact was discovered by his wife in time for her to administer a dose of mustard, thus defeating Finn's intention to make away with himself. The would-be suicide, we understand, expressed regrets that he had not taken a larger dose of the poison.



From Ontario County Times 27 May 1885

Naples, N. Y. -
The relatives and friends of Mrs. Amanda Lee surprised her on Saturday, the 16th, the 87th anniversary of her birthday, by gathering at her home for a visit and to make presents.



At a meeting held in this village on Friday evening, a new base ball organization was formed, with the following directors: Wm. Gorham, W. J. Coy and Will M. Spangle. The membership of the club is as follows: H. Smith, M. Tuohey, Silas Curtis, John Mulligan, and John Cunningham of Canandaigua; Wm. Roberts, J. Dooley, and Mat. O'Brien of Phelps; Lincoln Curtis of Clifton Springs and J. Driscol of Stanley.



From Geneva Gazette 29 May 1885

Wm. Shannon,
a lad thirteen years old, was struck by a Northern Central train near the Stanley station, on Monday morning, and narrowly escaped death.  He was picked up in an unconscious condition, but an examination showed that his most serious injury was the fracture of his right arm, and he is now on the road to rapid recovery.  Can. Times.



From Geneva Gazette 29 May 1885

As Wm. H. Whitney, (residing about four miles on the Castle road,) wife and a young lady residing with them, were going home Saturday evening, the rear seat on the spring wagon became loose, tipped over backward, and carried the ladies with it to the hard road below.  The young lady was injured quite badly, for she was in a partial faint for a few minutes.  With supreme coolness, Mr. Whitney held on to his spirited team, while there was in an instant enough people to render assistance to the ladies.  Mrs. Whitney says that she felt as if she had been through an earthquake.  Both took the seat again without fear, which most ladies less brave than they would not have done, and they reached home without further accident. Advertiser.



From Geneva Gazette 5 June 1885

Rumor prevails at Canandaigua that Ira Durgy, formerly of that village, (and who left it between two days,) met with sudden death in a far western town in an escapade involving another man's wife.  Durgy had an unsavory reputation as a rake.  To virtuous men and women a confirmation of the above report will bring no regrets.



From Ontario County Times 10 June 1885

The Rochester Herald reports that "Col." S. B. Pratt of this village has at last found his wife, with what result appears from the following item: "S. B. Pratt of Canandaigua was taken in charge by Detective Baker last evening on complaint of his wife, who said she was 'afraid of her life' when he was about. She claimed that when living together, he had often beaten and abused her. Pratt left his home in Canandaigua several weeks ago, and when he returned after two weeks' absence, his wife was missing. He found her yesterday living on Water street, and, as the woman said, 'imposed his presence on her.' His wife was sent for and said that she would not live with him again, and as he promised to keep away from her, he was allowed to depart."



From Geneva Gazette 12 June 1885

Mr. George Goodrich, of Rushville, recently shot a large, brown eagle, which measured six feet from tip to tip -- a very skillful feat no doubt, but nonetheless a plain violation of the law.  Any person who kills an eagle makes himself liable to a penalty of $5.00, and it is one that should be rigorously enforced.



From Geneva Gazette 12 June 1885

Miss May Henson
gave a party Wednesday evening last at the commodious residence of her parents, corner of Washington and Pulteney sts.  About twenty-four couples accepted her polite invitation, and were royally entertained.  With music, dancing, conversation and feasting, the evening wore away most pleasantly and but too quickly.  Miss Henson will soon leave town for a lengthy visit with her cousin, Mrs. J. L. Brenner, at Dayton, Ohio.



From Geneva Gazette 19 June 1885

We are informed that during the absence of Mr. H. L. Suydam from Geneva a short time ago, some person or persons had the meanness to take from his room in the International Hotel several articles which were of little intrinsic value, but were highly prized by Mr. Suydam as mementoes and keepsakes.  Mr. Suydam that if the property is returned immediately all will be forgiven, if they are not the law must take its course.



From Geneva Gazette 26 June 1885

Shooting Affray at Flint Creek - The oldest son of Wm. Esty of Flint Creek was shot twice on Wednesday night last about 12 o'clock by Seymour Dodge, with whom he had been scuffling.  The first shot struck Esty just below the liver, passing downward and inward and lodging in the abdominal cavity.  The second shot passed through the fleshy part of his right arm penetrating the right side of the chest, upper part, and lodging in cavity of chest.  He was taken to the house of Mr. A. Dodge, and Dr. Skinner called, who had Dr. Picot summoned.  The wounds were examined and probed.  The patient has reacted from the shock and is as comfortable as could be expected.  At this writing, no opinion can be given as to the results.



From Ontario County Journal 26 June 1885

Naples, N. Y. - Mrs. Polly Such
has been granted a pension as mother of Thomas W. Such. Also Wm. Parker, of South Bristol, and Theron Wilbur, of Naples, are among the fortunate applicants.



From Ontario County Times 1 July 1885

Hopewell, N. Y. -  Mr. John H. Benham
met with quite a serious accident last Tuesday while lending a helping hand at the raising of the frame of G. G. Benham's barn. The breaking of a chain let the bent fall back upon him, injuring one of his legs very much, but fortunately there were no bones broken. He is slowly improving.



From Ontario County Journal July 3 1885

Charles A. Kelly,
of Geneva, attempted suicide Tuesday evening, by jumping off the steamboat dock. John Malone prevented Kelly from drowning, and the would-be suicide was held to await the action of the grand jury.



From Ontario County Times 8 July 1885

Last Sunday morning, between 12 and 1 o'clock, when every saloon in town should have been closed, a lively fight took place on Phoenix street between Thomas Barry and James and Charles McCarthy, all of whom are saloon keepers. Barry was quite seriously injured, and on Monday he appeared before Police Justice Gooding and swore out warrants for the arrest of the McCarthy brothers. Charles, who is charged with assault in the second degree, gave bonds for his appearance before the grand jury, and James, who is charged with assault in the third degree, will be tried tomorrow morning.



Mr. Augustus Springfield, an employee of Stevens's bakery in this village, came very near bleeding to death last Saturday evening. It seems that about 10 o'clock that night he went down to the lake for the purpose of bathing and while in the water he bursted a blood vessel in one of his legs. He immediately dressed himself and started for the residence of Dr. J. A. Hawley, who promptly stopped the flow of blood. Dr. Hawley says the young man was almost exhausted when he reached his res, and could not possibly have lived many minutes had not the further loss of blood been prevented.



From Ontario County Journal 10 July 1885

Naples, N. Y. -
An accident on Tuesday resulted in quite seriously injuring Mr. and Mrs. John Legore. Coming down the "dugway" the hames broke, letting the vehicle on the horse, and he ran, overturning it and throwing both occupants headlong down over the bank. It might have been worse however.



From Ontario County Times 29 July 1885

Chapinville, N. Y. -
All our people are pleased with their young guests from New York, the "Fresh Air Children." Eight of their number took part in the concert last Sunday evening. Their efforts showed that Sunday school work was not a new thing to them. The entertainment of but two or three of those little waifs are credited to Chapinville, whereas nineteen of them are enjoying the hospitality of the villagers and those in the near vicinity, as the following will show: Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Henry, two boys; Mr. and Mrs. Albert Egelston, two boys; Mr. and Mrs. David Smith, two girls; Mr. and Mrs. Knapp, two girls; Mr. and Miss Hattie VanGelder, one boy; Mr. and Mrs. Stephens, two girls; Mr. and Mrs. Stoddard, two boys; Mr. and Mrs. Ballard, one girl; Mr. and Mrs. Callister, one girl; Mr. and Mrs. Cooper, two girls; Mr. and Mrs. Spencer Benham, one girl; Mr. James Ackles, and Mr. and Mrs. Kotteker, and the community in general, one boy--the pet of all. More of those little waifs are asked for by our people than have yet been received.



From Ontario County Times 5 August 1885

Port Gibson, N. Y. - Mrs. James Backus
met with quite a serious accident last week while she was driving down the long hill east of Pardee Smith's. The harness broke; that frightened the horse so that he upset the wagon, throwing it on Mrs. Backus. She escaped with a dislocated shoulder and some bruises. The last report is that she is doing nicely.



Seneca Castle, N. Y. -  The children of H. J. Peck are all at home again for the summer vacation. James, the youngest son, came at once after commencement in Williams' College, but the oldest, Fred Peck, went with a number of his classmates on a trip to Mt. Desert Island in the State of Maine. While there his hotel was burned while he was away; but his roommate, who happened to be there at the time, by an almost herculean effort, succeeded in saving their trunks and almost their entire wardrobe. Fred returned from his ramble last week, thus completing the entire family circle, the daughter, Minnie, having come from the Female College at Elmira some two weeks since. Fred says he is at home saved so as by fire.



John Morell, am employee of Smith Bros. & Co., millers, was badly burned Monday while dissolving some lime preparatory to whitewashing the cellar walls of the mills. About one half bushel of the lime exploded and flew up to the ceiling, falling on Mr. Morell's back as it came down. He is now confined to his home but is rapidly recovering.



From Ontario County Journal 7 August 1885

A young man named William Thayer, of Canadice, while at work in a portable saw mill recently, was attempting to adjust a belt, when his arm was caught in the belting and drawn against the circular saw, which cut it nearly through. It was found necessary to amputate the arm above the elbow.



From Ontario County Times 12 August 1885

Farmington, N. Y. - Alonzo Estes
went out on an excursion last Saturday. He soon afterwards returned with a lacerated and bleeding face. Whether in going after the cows a weakly rail pitched him over the fence into a thicket of briars and prickly ash, or that in milking "Old Spot", she struck him with her tail, he cannot determine. To the best of his recollection, he experienced a sensation comparable to a paralytic stroke and a shock of electricity having simultaneously collided with his person. He is certain that he did not strain the milk that night, and he is strongly inclined to believe that he was struck with the fragment of another stray meteor.
 


From Geneva Gazette 14 August 1885

Mr. Sherman Whitney
of Flint Creek and his wife and her mother, had a narrow escape from serious if not fatal injury one evening recently.  They were returning from a visit to a relative near Lewis P. O., and Mr. Whitney stopped at a trough by the roadside to water his horse.  He took the bit from the horse's mouth to facilitate its drinking, and then finding the trough empty, repaired to the pump or well sweep.  At this instant the horse started off, and without the bit became uncontrollable.  Mr. Whitney seized the animal and hung to it for some distance, but was finally thrown and run over, disabling him from further pursuit.  Fortunately the animal kept the road and ran all the way home (a distance of over six miles.)  The horse fell once, but recovered before Mrs. Whitney and her mother could alight.  Neither of the ladies suffered any injury, but were considerably frightened, and alarmed as to the fate of Mr. Whitney.  The father and brother of Mr. Whitney were aroused, another conveyance provided, and the two started in quest of him.  He was met about two miles from home, trudging slowly along and but slightly bruised.  Of course his mind was greatly relieved on learning of the safe arrival home of the ladies.



From Ontario County Times 19 August 1885

The Lyons Republican tells this story: A young man named William Peters, of Geneva, attended the circus in Lyons last Thursday afternoon. He was introduced there to Miss Annie Philips, who has for several months been employed as a domestic in a family in that town. It was a pure case of love at first sight, and during the dazzling performances of the gymnasts and the antics of the bejeweled horses,  Peters became deeply enamored of susceptible Miss Philips; and while the clown was cracking his time-honored jokes, the couple's minds were wandering together, far away from such a mundane affair as a circus. Later in the afternoon the young man escorted the lady home. He visited her again next day, and took her out for a drive. They returned an engaged couple, and an hour later drove to the home of Peter's parents in Phelps, to receive congratulations. A minister was called and the couple married. The whole period occupied by the acquaintance, courtship, and marriage was exactly twenty-six hours. This is the fastest matrimonial time on record in this region.



From Ontario County Journal 21 August 1885

Victor, N. Y. - Joseph Mary and his wife
indulged in another of their periodical sprees, disturbing the quiet of their immediate neighborhood until Wednesday, when Police Constables Lane and Underhill were called, and arrested Mrs. Mary, who flourished an ax and declared she would not be taken. Justice Colmey suggested ten days' rest at Sheriff Peck's as a sufficient time to recover from the indisposition caused by her heroic defense of herself and Joseph.



From Ontario County Times 26 August 1885

Mr. Henry Rossier,
residing on the Tichenor farm on the west of the lake, was seriously injured last week Tuesday while engaged in stacking barley. The stack had reached quite a height, and in order to get on the top, a ladder was placed alongside of the barn, from which Mr. Rossier could step on to the stack, and thus continue its construction. In shifting the ladder he struck an old log trough which fell to the ground and struck him a severe blow on the left temple bone, producing a fracture of the petrous portion of that bone and rupture of the drum of the ear. The fracture is an unusual one, and is known as a fracture contre coup. He was attended by Dr. Hallenbeck of this village, who expresses some doubt as to whether Mr. Rossier will ever entirely recover his hearing.



From Ontario County Journal 11 September 1885

Mrs. William Hennessey,
living on Clinton street, Geneva, a few days since left her little six-months-old child lying upon a bed upstairs, and shortly afterward hearing the child crying, she went to the room, and as she entered a large rat jumped from the bed and escaped. Upon picking up the child it was found that the rat had eaten one of the child's fingers nearly off.



From Ontario County Times 7 October 1885

Mr. Ansel Debow informs us that his name should have been included in Mr. Howell's list of living octogenarians who are natives of Canandaigua. Mr. Debow is nearly 82 years old.



From Geneva Gazette 9 October 1885

Seneca Castle, N. Y. - William Spangle,
son of Wilson Spangle of this place, has been appointed agent of the Sodus Bay Railroad at the Phelps Junction.  His many friends will be greatly pleased to learn of his good fortune.  It is understood that the appointment was made upon the recommendation of Mr. James Smith, the gentlemanly ticket agent and operator at the depot here.



The many friends of Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Pierson of this place are congratulating them upon their receiving the magnificent prize of an "Andes Range" for the most beautiful baby at the Geneva Union Fair this week.  The prize was rightly placed.



From Ontario County Journal 16 October 1885

Last Saturday night a horrible attempt at murder was made near Hall's Corners. The facts are given as follows: Henry Smith and wife live alone about one mile west of the Corners, and have resided there since their marriage a year ago. On Saturday night they were sleeping quietly, when Henry was awakened by the report of a gun. His wife was also awakened, and putting her hand to her head discovered that she was covered with blood. Her knee also felt damp, and she found it was a mass of blood. Before the couple recovered from their astonishment, the gun was again discharged and Henry received a load of shot in the hip. Perceiving then that something very serious was the matter, Mr. and Mrs. Smith covered their heads and bodies with pillows and clothing. A few moments only elapsed before another charge came through the window, passed between them, went through a headboard of the bed, through a wooden partition and lodged in the wall of an adjoining room. The person who fired the gun evidently thought that the charge had accomplished the murder he wished, and ceased. Mr. and Mrs. Smith, however, remained in bed till morning, fearing to stir. For four hours they waited, then, at six o'clock in the morning, dripping with blood, crawled painfully to the door and called for help. James Adamson, who lives in the neighborhood, soon arrived, and was aghast at the sight that met his eyes. The bed was soaked with blood and presented a fearful sight. The unfortunate victims were too weak to speak. Assistance was immediately rendered, and medical aid soon arrived. Forty seven shot were extracted from Mr. Smith's hip and twenty-seven from his wife's knee. They were large shot, size BB, used for wild game shooting. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are improving, and if lockjaw does not set in both will recover. No clue whatever to the perpetrators of the horrid crime can be found. Mr. Smith held no business dealings with anyone who might become his enemy, and had not to his knowledge, or that of his neighbors, an enemy in the world, and no reason for the attempt can be surmised. He and his wife have been married a year, are now but twenty and eighteen years of age respectively. The would-be murderer was evidently acquainted with the arrangement of the house, as the night was intensely dark, and the aim was accurate. The firing was heard by some of the neighbors, who thought it was done by parties out "cooning."

Young Smith, according to his father's will, is to come into possession of the farm, subject only to his mother's right of dower, when he arrives at the age of 21. He is now only 20 years old. Monday District Attorney Armstrong visited the scene of the crime and caused to be made a careful diagram of the house and surroundings, and also removed the window sash through which the shots were fired. Upon his recommendation the Board of Supervisors requested the Sheriff to offer $1000 reward for the arrest and conviction of the guilty party or parties. Sheriff Peck immediately offered such a reward. There are no new developments in the case so far as we can learn. It is earnestly hoped that the murderous devil who committed this horrible crime may be speedily hunted down. Henry Smith is a half-brother of Lewis Smith of this village and also of T. Warner Smith of Benton, Yates Co.



From Ontario County Times 28 October 1885

Information is wanted of one Timothy Plympton, who resided in Geneva in 1830 to 1840, or thereabouts. Four of his children were born in Geneva, three sons and one daughter, the latter of whom makes the inquiry, and would be pleased to gain any knowledge with reference to her father's history. Her address is Mrs. Janez Baldwin, St. Mary's Parish, La.



From Ontario County Times 4 November 1885

Allen's Hill, N. Y. - Mrs. C. W. Simmons
entertained a company of elderly ladies at her home last Wednesday afternoon, the occasion being the 74th birthday of her mother, Mrs. E. Carpenter, who was present with them. All reported a very pleasant time.



From Ontario County Journal 6 November 1885

Gorham has a trio of ladies whose combined aged are 245 years, who for persons of that extreme age are worthy of note. Mrs. Elizabeth Mapes, in her 84th year, gets about the house and rides out occasionally, and since attaining the age of 80 years has pieced 23 quilts. Mrs. S. G. Morton, in her 83d year, when well, attends to her general household duties for herself and husband, doing her washing and getting it out as early on Monday mornings as many of the younger ones; has pieced two quilts within the past year, and very recently walked to her brother's, a distance of one mile, returning the same day. Mrs. Elizabeth Thompson, in her 82d year, although at present quite feeble, manages the affairs of her household taking care of the milk and butter of two cows, and with herself there are three persons in the family.



Cheshire, N. Y. - Mr. John Hallock, who lost his wife last winter and married Mrs. Atwood last spring, has been taken to the county house and had his leg amputated to cure a cancer on the shin bone.



From Ontario County Times 18 November 1885

Last Friday morning, Daniel Davis and Charles Stanton, of this village, were engaged in an altercation, which resulted in the fracturing of Davis's skull. Stanton was examined before Justice Gooding and held in $200 bail for his appearance before the same justice this morning. Dr. Beahan, who was called, says Davis's injuries are not so serious as at first reported.



From Ontario County Journal 4 December 1885

East Bloomfield, N. Y. -
Last week there occurred in this place a very pleasant social event, one that will long be remembered by those particularly interested. It was the reunion of the family of Tartellus and Delilah Mead, which consists of ten children--Dr. Theodore Mead, of Washington, D. C., who is one of the medical examiners in the Pension Department; Charles Mead, a farmer, residing in McHenry Co., Ill.; Mrs. Maria Hoyt, a widow, living in Oswego Co., this State; Mark M. Mead, a carpenter, residing in Syracuse; Miss Caroline Mead, who resides with her sister in Oswego Co.; Mary A., wife of O. G. Cummings; Wm. H., a millwright, James E., of the firm of Swift & Mead, carriage makers, Erastus, a farmer, all of whom reside in this town, and Barney R., a carpenter, residing in Oswego Co. On Tuesday they all met at the photograph gallery of Crandall Brothers, Canandaigua, and were taken in a group. On Wednesday the family gathered at the residence of James E. Mead, on Thursday at the residence of Erastus Mead, and on Friday at the residence of Wm. H. Mead. This being the first time the family had been together in 36 years, much was found to talk about and many bright incidents were recalled. The average age of the family was found to be 53 years, the youngest 42 and the oldest 63. On Friday evening the circle was broken by the departure of Dr. Theodore for Washington; on Saturday the members of the family from Oswego Co. returned home, and on Monday of this week Chas. and wife took their departure for Illinois.



From Ontario County Times 9 December 1885

John Richardson,
of Naples, aged 83 years, is not too old to play a tenor drum enthusiastically, and Editor Deyo of the same place -- age unknown -- is not too dignified to whack a bass drum with might and main. Oh! the boys!



From Ontario County Times 16 December 1885

Rushville, N. Y. - Jerome Eldridge,
of this place, met with a painful accident a few nights ago. While coming down the street, he was run into by some boys, (the night being very dark,) and knocked senseless. He was taken to his home and a physician called, who found he had sustained some severe bruises on the head and face. He is recovering.



Frank Smith,
the well-known ball player of this village, is home for the winter. He has played the past season as change catcher and left field for the Toronto club of Canada.



From Ontario County Times 30 December 1885

East Bloomfield, N. Y. -  Mr. Peter Spitz,
of East Bloomfield, has an old English Bible, with a Book of Common Prayer in the same covers, bearing date 1638. The New Testament part of this valuable volume is dated 1599. It is printed by the University Press, Cambridge.



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