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by Joyce M. Tice Formatted & Published by Joyce M. Tice |
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| Reading a series of obituaries from a single
cemetery, as they are presented here, is like reading the multi-generational
history of a community. These people were the local populace at a particular
time. The people buried here knew each other, were neighbors, relatives
and school mates. They attended church together and engaged in "trade"
or business.
All people are listed in alphabetic order by surname at BIRTH. Women identified by a married alias only and for whom a birth surname can not be identified, are listed on the last page for the cemetery's obituaries. Please send in typed obituaries for people buried in our local cemeteries. If possible include name of newspaper and date. Send typed in your email or in attached Word files. Send to Joyce M. Tice (JoyceTice@aol.com) |
Many of the biographies on this page are also included on the site in
the Bradsby book or the F&AM book which includes photos. These are
duplicates of material already published on the site.
BENNETT, Charles - "Bradford Star," 17 September 1896, p. 2 'Powell': "Again death has visited our town and taken another old soldier, Charles Bennett, who died September 6, aged 78 years; interment in Riverside Cemetery, Towanda." To clavify which Charles Bennett this is; I'm including his will: Filed July 13, 1895 at the Bradford County Courthouse, Towanda, PA (Book # 11, page 276, entry # 6104). "Will and Testament of Charles Bennett-I Charles Bennett of the township of Monroe County of Bradford and State of Pennsylvania, being of sound and disposing mind and memory do make and publish this my last`will and testament hereby revoking all former wills by me et any time heretofore made. First: I direct all my just debts and funeral expenses be fully paid. Second: I give devise and bequeath to my son Elmer Bennett now living in Towandm township County of`Bradford the sum of one dollar. Third: I give devise and bequeath to my daughter Ella Bennett now married to Thomas Mills now living in the State of Indiana the sum of one dollar. Fourth: I give devise and bequeath to my daughter Arona Dugans (sic) now a widow living at home all my personal property of every kind and description to have and to hold in her own rights, and also give to her all my real estate that I may die possessed of situated in Greenwood (now called Powell-BES) Monroe Township County of Bradford and State of Pennsylvania. And I hereby nominate and appoint my daughters (sic) Arona Dugan to be my executrix of this my last will and testament. In Witness whereof I have set my hand and seal this thirteenth day of July A.D. one thousand eight hundred and ninety five. Charles (X-his mark) Bennett Signed in the presence of Witnesses: Benjamin Haythorn, Catharine Haythorn Admitted to Probate Dec. 28, 1896. A. (C. ?-illegible) Blackwell, Register" Submitted by gg g-daughter, Bonnie Strope
L. SAMUEL W. BUCK – 1890. Many prospects of a brilliant career were extinguished by the early death of this amiable and accomplished brother. A graduate of Union College, a member of the Bar, and a trusted, efficient public officer, he was universally beloved and respected. His integrity was almost an axiom. Masonry was congenial to him from his initiation, August 5, 1885, and the members were only too glad to recognize his ability at the annual elections. He was a clear, impressive accurate workman. He was the second son of Hon. P. H. Buck, was born in Pike township June 9, 1855, and died at Towanda, January 26, 1891. Buried in Riverside Cemetery.
GEORGE H. BULL – 1845, 1846, 1848, 1849, 1850. Brother Bull came
from Elmira to Towanda in 1826, following his father and two brothers to
this place. He was merchant, Justice of the Peace, farmer (buying the McCord
farm at Highland) and miller at the Towanda Creek Mills. Of somewhat stern
appearance, he is remembered for his integrity, good judgment and a lively
appreciation of wit and humor. As a Justice his office was on the North
side of Public Square. He probably was made a Mason at Elmira. His family
had come from Connecticut. Probably no one here, during his time, gave
more attention to Freemasonry. An expert at every point, he was justly
considered, with Dr. Houston, a leader in the Craft. His last years were
passed at Newark, N.J., but his remains were interred at Riverside, Towanda.
He died July --, 1870.
<WSWQ34A@prodigy.com>
| Charles L. FELTON Of Towanda Dies [November 1935]
Widely Known in County Seat and Vicinity; Had Highly Interesting Life; Once Won Bet by Beating Weather Man at His Own Game. Charles L. Felton, for years one of Towanda’s widely known men, died suddenly from a heart attack about 7:30 yesterday morning [Thursday]. He had been in poor health for several months but nevertheless his passing was a shock to his many friends. Born in Towanda January 30, 1862, Charley spent most of his life here but for a few years made his home on a farm at Herrickville. While there he served as school director and once was Justice of the Peace but laughingly said in speaking of it, that he never had a marriage and never heard a case. When a mere youngster he became drummer boy for a National Guard company and went with the soldiers to Altoona at the time of the big Pennsylvania Railroad strike there in 1872. He also paraded with his company at two inaugurations of Presidents in Washington, D.C. Charley taught school several terms at North Towanda and on Pond Hill and once served as deputy sheriff. Later he started the Dickens Book Shop in Towanda but sold it when he decided to take up farming. For some time also he was employed at the old Tracey shoe factory in the building now occupied by the Patterson Screen Co. Always musically inclined, he played in the old Naiad band here, the Dushore band, old Germania band and the Towanda band. He joined the Naiad-Linta fire company about 30 years ago and kept up his interest in the fire department through the years. He also belonged to Bradford Lodge No. 167 I.O.O.F. and Shechem Odd Fellows Club where he was always ready for his favorite game of pitch with all comers. One of his great hobbies was working of cross-word puzzles. Some time ago he gained wide attention by acclaim that he had worked more than 5,000 of these puzzles without ever giving up on one after starting it. Since that time he has worked thousands more. |
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GILLETT - Funeral services for the late Isaac M. Gillett were held at the family home at Overshot Sunday afternoon at 1 o'clock. Rev. Edwin A. Gernant officiating. Interment was made in the Riverside cemetery, Towanda. Pallbearers were: Daniel O'Sullivan, James Dunn. William Madigan and William Carman. Reva Wagner. Daily Review Feb. 28, 1911.
SAMUEL HOUSTON, M.D. – Dr. Houston was born in Rockport, Mass., May 4, 1796. He graduated at Dartmouth College and from the Medical Schools of Boston. He began practice in New Hampshire, and came to Towanda in 1824. Though he died May 20, 1856, he is still remembered as an eminent man in his profession. Strong in likes and dislikes, firm in purpose, of great kindness of heart and integrity of character he would have been notable anywhere. He affiliated with Lodge No. 70, June 5, 1827, was W. M. in 1829, and became a member of No. 108 at its revival. His work in this Lodge was enormous. Always active, always present, he was dignified and able at every point. Old members still speak of him as one of the best of Worshipful Masters. He was for some years the District Deputy Grand Master for this District. Buried in Riverside Cemetery.
HUTCHINSON, Estella - An October 15, 1914 obituary notice in an unknown local paper states, "Mrs. Estella Strope. (Contributed.) Mrs. Estella Strope, wife of the late Ezra Strope, was born in Ulster Township on April 1, 1839 and died Oct. 6, 1914 at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Fred Rice (Nellie Strope) in Towanda, after a long and painful illness. She was a devoted Christian and was respected by all who knew her; always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need, and always looked to her Bible for comfort. She was a great sufferer but trusted in her God. She was the mother of 14 children. John, dying when three years of age. She leaves 13 to survive her, besides 55 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren; three sisters, Mrs. Adaline Wigins of West Franklin, Mrs. T. A. Harding of Washington, D. C., and Mrs. Pierce Crawford of Nanticoke, Pa., and one half-sister, Mrs. Jas. Hees of Towanda. The funeral was largely attended by friends and neighbors. The pastor, Rev. A. E. Hall preached a comforting sermon. Her favorite hymn, 'It is Well With My God,' was beautifully sung by Mrs. McClen (The hymn is now known by the name, 'It Is Well With My Soul'). She was laid to rest by the side of her husband in Riverside Cemetery. 'Rest Sweet Mother, Rest." Submitter: Bonnie Strope <WSWQ34A@prodigy.com>
INGHAM - Local News) Sara A. VanFleet, widow of Former Sheriff Perry VanFleet of this county, died last Saturday at the home of her niece, Mrs. Flora Kuhl in Knoxville, Tioga county, Mrs. VanFleet was 75 years old. Mrs. Stephen Gernert of Columbia X Roads, is a sister. The remains were taken to Towanda for interment in Riverside Cemetery. TGR 1914
L'AMOUREUX Ione
L'Amoureux, Miss Ione passed away last evening at her home on North
Fourth street. Her death was quite unexpected despite her advanced
years since she had been about up to the past few days, and brought deep
grief to the scores of persons who held her in high regard. Miss L'Amoureux
was born in Towanda December 8, 1861, and was a member of the Methodist
church here. Kind and gracious at all times, she was beloved throughout
her neighborhood. The survivors are a brother, Charles L'Amoureux,
of Towanda, and a sister, Mrs. R.G. Rice of St. Paul, Minn. Funeral
arrangements will be announced later. Daily Review
GEORGE D. MANTANYE – 1866. The fourth son of the late Joseph D,. Montanye, was born Oct. 3, 1836, and was educated for the Bar. He possessed an unusually keen intellect, refined literary taste and great knowledge of human nature. In political judgment he had few equals. He served as District Attorney of the County and was for several years United States Collector of Internal Revenue. In Masonry his services were brilliant and memorable. His faculty of saying and doing the right thing at the right time made him invaluable to the Craft, and as a District Deputy Grand Master he performed much work. Gentlemanly manners and obliging disposition made him a universal favorite. He died April 29, 1876. Interred in Riverside Cemetery.
HENRY MERCUR – 1865. Bro. Mercur was the second son of the late H. S. Mercur, whose memory is justly held in high esteem by the old citizens of Towanda. Henry, the son, was bred to mercantile pursuits, and was in general business first with his father, and later in the wholesale grocery house of Fox, Stevens, Mercur & Co. His active career closed in the coal business. He was initiated Dec. 12, 1860, being then twenty-one years of age. His interest in the Fraternity was shown so well that he was called to the office of Worshipful Master, and he performed the duties in a careful, punctilious manner. He was a modest, unassuming gentleman, a valued friend and pleasant companion. He died July 21, 1882, and is buried in Riverside Cemetery. - H.C. Bradsby
PARSONS E. M.
Death of E. M. Parsons of Towanda.
E. Mortimer Parsons died at his home in Towanda on Friday, from the
effects of an apoplectic stroke. He was 74 years of age and was born at
Columbia X Roads. He was a veteran of the Civil war and served in Company
B of the 141st regiment. TGR 1904
CALVIN B. PATCH – Bro. Patch’s family came from Owego, N.Y., to Towanda, in 1860, and he was here for many years a leading merchant in the business of groceries and produce. His affiliation with this Lodge seems to date July 3, 1861, but the record is not clear. HE was a zealous, interested Mason, a man of keen perception, kind, genial and charitable. No man could be more highly esteemed than he was by his brethren. He was born July 8, 1835, and died February 11, 1877. Buried at Riverside. - H.C. Bradsby
WILLIAM A. PECK – 1869, 1870. He was born in Smithfield township, Bradford county, Pa., January 24, 1833. After reading with the late Dr. E. P. Allen, he graduated as a physician from the University of Michigan in March, 1854. His first practice was at Dushore, but he soon removed to Berwick where he remained four or five years. He there studied law, then attended a law school at Poughkeepsie, N.Y., and practiced law for a time at Phoenixville, Pa. In Oct. 1861, he was commissioned as Surgeon of the 104th Regiment Penn’a Vols., and July 20, 1862, was honorably discharged. In July, 1863, he again entered the service as Surgeon of the 38th Penn’a Vols. His duties were numerous, as Medical Purveyor, at Chambersburg, and in other stations. After the muster out of his Regiment he came to Towanda and engaged in the work of the law, where he attained a leading place, with brilliant prospects, eclipsed by his early death. He was made a Mason in Lodge No. 265 at Bloomsburg, April 2, 1855. After he affiliated at Towanda, his work became conspicuous, and he deservedly held high place in the hearts of brethren. He died July 24, 1875, and is buried in Riverside Cemetery. - H.C. Bradsby
The first and one of the most important pioneers to settle in what is now North Towanda, township was Ezra RUTTY who came from New York in 1785, and located on Sugar creek. he purchased on time 500 acres, and improved what is yet known as the " Rutty farm," on which his descendants remained. His son Ezra was a baby when the family came, and Ezra (third) eventually occupied the old homestead. Mr. Rutty died in 1813, and his widow five years later; they were buried in Riverside Cemetery. - H.C. Bradsby
Hon. George SCOTT, a native of Berkshire county, Mass., born
November 19, 1784, having attained his majority, in company with an elder
brother, David, started for the "Sunny South " to begin life in earnest
and make his fortune. The young men were both well educated for those days,
and had decided to engage in school-teaching when an opportunity presented
itself, until something more congenial and paying should be found. Accordingly,
sometime in 1805, they set out with a single horse, and drifted into Wysox,
Bradford county. They made their business known, whereupon the citizens
called a meeting at the house of Burr Ridgeway, and George was hired to
teach the school of the district. David found employment west of the river.
He also clerked for William Means, read law in the meantime, and finally
went to Wilkes-Barre, where he was admitted to the bar. He became a man
of note; was prothonotary of Luzerne county, and for several years was
president judge of the Luzerne district. George continued teaching in Wysox,
and having been appointed a justice of the peace, purchased a lot next
beyond the "brick church," and built a house thereon. Finally, Miss Lydia,
daughter of Henry Strope, " possessed the necessary charms," and he became
a permanent fixture in the county. Upon the organization of the county
in 1812, he was appointed an associate judge with John McKean, by Gov.
Snyder, and held that office until 1818. He was clerk to the county commissioners
from 1815 to 1820, and was appointed prothonotary in ----, and register
and recorder in 1824, which office he held till 1830. In 1816 he was appointed
a commissioner to superintend the distribution of the funds appropriated
for the building of the State road, " extending eastward and westward through
the county," and passing through Towanda.
In the Autumn of 1819, Mr. Scott moved to Towanda with his family,
and took up his residence on the corner north of State street, west of
Main, but afterward lived and died on the ground now occupied by Dr. Pratt.
He edited and published the Bradford Settler from 1821 to 1823, his printing
office standing east of Main street, and south of State, near the corner.
From 1823 to 1824 he was country treasurer, and for many Years was prominent
in the politics of the county. He died at Towanda, March 2, 1834, and was
buried in Riverside Cemetery. Mrs. Scott survived her husband many years;
she was born in Wysox, February 29, 1788, and died in Towanda, February
25, 1881. - H.C. Bradsby
GEORGE SCOTT – No one has, so far, in No. 108, served as Worshipful Master as many years as Judge Scott. His excellent ability made him worthy of this prominence, and the records show that whatever he did, was performed punctually and well. Called from the Secretary’s desk to "the East", he never served as Warden, and no one noted the omission. There are to be found many evidences of the warm affection in which he was held by his brethren. He is buried at Riverside Cemetery.
Obadiah SPALDING, a brother of Col. Harry, a " mechanic and single freeman," lived ill Towanda from 1812 to 1817. . . Noah Spalding another brother of Col. Harry, who had been associated with Will. B. Spalding (a brother) in lumbering on the Towanda creek, became a villager in about 1822. He built a tavern on the east side of the river, a little north of where the bridge approach now is, and kept it in con-nection with a ferry. He died in 1835, aged forty-seven years, and is buried at Riverside. -H.C. Bradsby
IRA H. STEPHENS – . Born Nov. 2, 1802, he was a son of Capt.
Ira Stephens, a Revolutionary Soldier of very honorable record, who became
a charter member of Lodge No. 70. The son, Ira H., was made a Mason in
that Lodge May 16, 1826, and served as Warden in 1828 and 1829. He labored
actively at the revival of Lodge No. 108, and became its Worshipful Master
in 1844. Bro. Stephens was elected Sheriff of the county in 1839, and was
Burgess of Towanda Borough 1943. For several years he kept a hotel on the
spot where E. O. Goodrich afterward built the brick "Reporter" building.
The hotel being sold, he removed to a farm in North Towanda, where he died
Feburary 1, 1862, aged 59 years. Buried at Riverside Cemetery. -H.C.
Bradsby
TALLADA, Abigail - Mrs. Abigail Essenwine died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. E.R. Dykens, at Muncey on Thurwday, aged 86 years. The body will be brought to Towanda thms evening for interment. Services will be held Sunday at 2 o'clock p.m. at the$First Baptist Church on South Main Street. Interment will be made in Riverside Cemetary beside the body of her husband. Adam Essenwine, a former well known Towandian. The deceased is survived by two sons, Charles Essenwine of East Towanda and John of Loch Haven, and the daughterm Mrs. Dykens. From Daily Review, Dec. 3, 1904 Submitted by Gloria Wilkinson, email mwilk@aracnet.com (Tombstone reading says she died in 1906)
William WATKINS was born in Windsor county, Vt., was admitted to the bar in Montpelier in 1825. In 1828 he married Almira Hulett, and soon after removed to Towanda. He gave himself immediately to the practice of his profession, never engaging in speculation, and only participating in the passing questions of the day, when he considered a moral principle to be involved. His keen perception of character and motive, and persistency of purpose, secured him, in time, a reputation for shrewdness as a lawyer, and the integrity of mind, that was a distinguishing trait, gave him an undisputed claim to the confidence of his clients and the respect of his neighbors and friends. Mr. Watkins was a man of strong convictions, and of such as did not always lead him into avenues of g popularity. He identified himself with the earliest Abolition movements in the county. when a single old colored man, familiarly known as " Black Henry," was his main ally. Years later, in the interval of which history was verifying the correctness of his sympathies, his eldest son, Lieut. Col. Guy Hulett, who had early enlisted in the War of the Rebellion, fell in the fruitless charge before Petersburg, June 18, 1864. Mr. Watkins died September 12, 1877, aged seventy-five years, in the home he inhabited nearly fifty years; Mrs. Watkins died February 9, 1879, at the age of seventy two. Their children were two sons, Guy H. and William H., and two daughters, who married Hon. W. T. Davies, and H. L. L'Amoureaux, respectively. -H.C. Bradsby
Dr. Charles WHITEHEAD located at Towanda in 1818. His house stood a little south of N. N. Bett's residence, in the same lot, which he then owned. He was a man of ability and considerable eminence. From 1820 and 1823 he was register and recorder of the county. He was also a justice of the peace. He died in 1825 (aged thirty-one years). and was buried in Riverside Cemetery. Mrs. Whitehead taught school in the village after her husband's death. - H.C. Bradsby-
WOOD, Miss Mary Spencer- (Dec 13, 1945) daughter of the late James and Louise Cash Wood of Towanda, died at the Moore Nursing Home in Athens Wednesday. Miss Wood was born in Towanda, then went to New York City where she lived until five years ago, then coming to Athens. She is survived by a brother, Robert of Richmond Highlands, Washington. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Towanda, where a prayer service will be held Friday, Dec 14.
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