Other St. Lawrence County, NY News Items from 1850-60 Newspapers
Vital Record Items To See a Source citation, click on the Source # -- To see the Introduction to this document, click on the "Intro" link. Intro to this document Index to Hidden Names
SUBJECT CITATION SOURCE PUBLICATION DATE
"Black Swan" Miss E. T. Greenfield, perhaps the sweetest singer alive, gave a concert at the Eagle Hall in Ogdensburg Sep. 21, 1857.  This is her third visit, and if she had white skin, she would be followed by a suit of admirers 7 Sep. 22, 1857.
8 deaths in 6 months the death notices include 8 members of the Elijah Osgood family of Stockholm who have passed away during the last 6 months. (from the Potsdam Courier) 11 Apr. 12, 1853
a daily paper for Ogdensburg Mr. Oswell says he will publish the first edition of his Daily Morning News on Mar. 22, 1852 11 Mar. 16, 1852.
accident in Fowler Darwin Farmer, 13, son of Harvey Farmer of Fowler, fell out of the hay mow and onto a pitch fork Jul. 23, 1854.  One of the tines narrowly missed his heart, and he ended up with a broken collar bone. (from the Gouverneur Free Press) 8 Aug. 1, 1854
accident in the woods John Dezell 2nd of Lisbon broke both of his legs in an accident in the woods Mar. 3, 1858 7 Mar. 6, 1858.
accidental shooting Francis Whitman was accidentally shot while in the woods near Edwards searching for a deranged man on Sep. 30, 1855 (from the Progressive Age) 2 Oct. 9, 1855
accused murderer Nancy Ann McArdle was arrested on suspicion of killing a child above Ogdensburg last week.  She had left Morristown with the child last November, and she is in Canton jail now.  She was acquitted in June, 1853 11 Mar. 8 & June 28, 1853
Alexander Mayne sentenced Alexander Mayne was convicted of second degree manslaughter for the death of Samuel Snoddy and got sent to the state prison for 7 years.  4 Mar. 3, 1853
amputation Dr. S. N. Sherman amputated the leg of H. B. Smith in Ogdensburg Feb. 1, 1851, while the patient was under the effects of chloroform.  Mr. Smith, a builder by trade, had fallen on the ice some time ago.  Although he had survived falls from one and two storeys high in the past, this simple accident cost him his leg. 11 Feb. 4, 1851
another gun accident a man named Locke was injured by the discharge of a cannon at the Stockholm and Brasher Falls station on the 4th of July.  He put the cartridge in the gun before cleaning it.  He lost one hand, plus 3 fingers from the other. 8 Jul. 11, 1854
another infant found Coroner J. C. Preston held an inquest on the body of an infant found floating in the Oswegatchie opposite Ogdensburg Jul. 5.  Cause of death was blows inflicted on its head. 11 Jul. 12, 1853
another thief caught Franklin Richards (of Moira) stole a pair of fur gloves from Atcheson's store in Ogdensburg but got caught in Potsdam and was given 30 days for his trouble. 7 Dec. 16, 1858
Anthony Furness hurt Anthony Furness of Ogdensburg was seriously hurt Oct. 11, 1854 when he fell from, and then was run over by, a stone wagon 8 Oct. 17, 1854
Arba Pray's house burns Arba Pray's house near the railroad bridge in Ogdensburg was destroyed by fire Dec. 1, 1853 8 Dec. 6, 1853.
armory completed the new armory, a few rods south of the dam in Ogdensburg, is now complete and ready for public inspection.  It was completed on time and cost $2800. 7 Oct. 27, 1858
army pay raises most officer ranks of the army got their first increase in pay since 1783. Officers of cavalry make substantially more than their artillery or infantry counterparts.  For example, a cavalry captain will now make $1528 per year. 11 Feb. 24, 1857
arrests Feb. 11, 1859 John Murphy, the youth who tore up the saloon at the corner of Ford and Catherine Sts. in Ogdensburg on Feb. 9, 1859, was arrested and given 40 days in the county jail.  He had boasted that he had never had his name in the paper, but now he has his name in the paper and his person in prison.  Michael Small was arrested for drunkeness and given 10 days in jail 7 Feb. 11, 1859
arrests Mar. 17, 1859 Joseph Denny was arrested for assault and battery and sentenced to 15 days in the county jail.  He struck Mrs. LaBelle, who has a shiftless husband, who, after receiving a new coat from her, sold it to Denny for a trifle. Denny struck her when she demanded the coat be returned. John Sweeney was convicted of assault and battery, but the sentence was suspended for the present, as he is normally a quiet man, but indulges in liquor which turns his quietness to pugnacity.  John Skelly was arrested for looting the burned-out saw mill of some of its iron. 7 Mar. 17, 1859
arson Henry Deming says that he is the one who burned the barns and shed of W. H. Olmstead 3 miles south of Potsdam on May 30, 1859. He has been insane at times in the past.  He also admitted to burning Mrs. A. L. Clarkson's barn about a mile south of Potsdam 7 June 4, 1859
arsonist Robert Wilson of Ogdensburg was charged Nov. 22, 1854 with setting several fires, and was indicted Dec. 5, 1854 on that charge.  He was tried in Feb. 1855 and sentenced to life in prison.  His wife Elizabeth and son John James Wilson were also indicted for larceny and burglary. His wife was sentenced to 5 years in prison, but the son was acquitted. 11 Nov. 28, 1854 & Feb. 27, 1855
artful sign Green and Flack's Barbershop on Ford St. in Ogdensburg has hung up a beautiful new sign showing interior views of the shop with the 2 barbers performing their work.  The sign was made by the Child and Bowen shop. 7 Sep. 10, 1858
attempted jailbreak the Canton Plaindealer reports that 9 inmates of the County Jail attempted to break out but were thwarted by the sheriff and his deputies. 10 Dec. 8, 1859
attempted murder a young man from Lawrence named Angel was stabbed with a dirk by an unknown assailant June 17, 1850 as the two were on their way from Lawrence to Ogdensburg. His rib stopped the knife, and the assailant escaped into the darkness 12 June 19, 1850.
attempted suicide a Frenchman named Louis Newchart was found insensible at the corner of Jay and Franklin Sts. in Ogdensburg and was brought to the house of Julius Guyott.  It turns out he landed in New Orleans 2 months ago, rode up the Mississippi, got to Buffalo and had a ticket to Montreal, but was robbed of $300 and decided to take laudanum and end his life. 7 June 21, 1858
bad fall Robert Walling, a painter working for Child and Bowen, fell from the new building of Mr. Parish on the corner of Washington and Morris Sts. in Ogdensburg Oct. 19, 1858.  He fell 30 feet, breaking through 2 scaffolds as he went down 7 Oct. 19, 1858
big bear Philo Leonard, ae 16 of Pierrepont, killed a bear weighing more than 300 pounds 11 Jul. 29, 1851
Black Ben returns #1 Black Ben, the negro, looking much as he did 30 years ago, made his reappearance in Ogdensburg lately.  The boys of the village have always liked taunting him and attacking him when he is drunk.  Few know that he is a wounded veteran of 1812.  He gives his name variously as Benjamin Christion, Chrisjohn or Creshon. He is about 80 years old. 8 May 6, 1856
Black Ben returns #2 Black Ben, the wirey constitutioned old Nig, who has been the subject of an infinite amount of fun for the boys the last 20 years has made his appearance in Ogdensburg.  The old man looks as usual and exhibits great powers of endurance.  He will be in his element as soon as he can get the boys together for a train. 11 Jul. 5, 1859.
boating accident A. N. Tupper of Potsdam was accidentally shot Jul. 5, 1856.  He was returning from Tupper's Lake with Mr. Watkins, Parsons and Perkins, and got as far as Ball's Island when, in loading the boat, a shotgun discharged and shot him in the ankle, causing a very serious wound. 11 Aug. 12, 1856
boot thief Hugh Welsh was caught red-footed stealing a pair of boots from Mr. Vilas' store in Ogdensburg Apr. 26, 1859 11 May 3, 1859.
boy breaks leg Harmon Bennett's 8 year old boy broke his leg Jul. 21, 1859, jumping from a moving train. (no place mentioned, but quoted in Canton Plaindealer) 11 Jul. 26, 1859
boy escapes disaster Richard Hilliard had a close call while skating on the canal in Ogdensburg Dec. 4, 1853. The ice had just frozen the night before, and he fell through, but was able to get out 8 Dec. 6, 1853.
Boynton strikes again! Charles Boynton, formerly of Ogdensburg has begun a new newspaper in LaSalle IL called the LaSalle Weekly Press 8 Jan. 15, 1856.
Boy's Journal the Morning Glory and Young America are combining into one newspaper which will go by the name of Boy's Journal 8 Aug. 29, 1854
Boys to Men the Boys Daily Journal has dropped the word "Boys" from its title and from now on will be known as the Daily Journal 11 Jul. 29, 1856.
brakeman hurt Alexander McGee, a brakeman, fell between the cars near Potsdam Jan. 12, 1856 and was run over.  His right arm had to be amputated 8 Jan. 15, 1856.
Brasher fire fire nearly destroyed the entire Brasher Iron Works May 25, 1857 11 June 2, 1857
Briar Hill P.O. there has been a Post Office established at Briar Hill 8 Mar. 18, 1851
burglaries George Clark's house just outside Ogdensburg on the Heuvelton road, and that of John Barnett, on the road leading from Heuvelton to the Eel Weir, were both broken into during the last week of July, 1857.  William Noble's house was likewise entered, as was the home of a family named Mumery. The Ogdensburg police kept a close eye, and a negro named John Proctor was arrested, but his black accomplice was not.(Proctor was sentenced to 10 years in prison) 7 Aug. 3 & Oct. 19, 1857
burglary charge Joseph Martino was convicted of burglary with intent to commit rape and was sentenced to 10 years in the state prison 11 June 21, 1859
burned out Mrs. Randolph, widow of H. F. Randolph of Lisbon, had her house burn down with a loss of everything, and her insurance had elapsed last September 11 Jan. 23, 1855
burning out the cholera Ogdensburg was alarmed Aug. 8, 1854 by the fire bell, but it was just the burning of some of the shanties in the infected district near the grain elevator. In these shanties, 7 out of 11 men heading families had died of cholera since July 11, 1854 8 Aug. 15, 1854
California bound! a letter is published from H. D. Sears of Canton, who left for California in February and is currently in Panama. 21 May 22, 1850
California exodus 37 people left Madrid Station bound for California, and many more had joined by the time the train reached Rouses Point. (see also "Madrid and Lisbon boys") 11 Jan. 20, 1852
camp meeting the Methodists were holding a camp meeting in Brasher Falls all during the last week of August, 1858. 7 Aug. 30, 1858
camphene accident Mrs. Henry Church of Ogdensburg was seriously burned when a camphene lamp broke and caught her clothes on fire.  Mrs. Birkby suffered a similar accident last week. 11 Feb. 6, 1855.
Canadian quarters Canadian quarters are being taken at the banks for only 20 or 22 cents, whereas most merchants in Ogdensburg still accept them at face value.   7 Feb. 17, 1858
Canton church the new Methodist Episcopal Church in Canton will be dedicated Feb. 25, 1857, with services performed by Rev. W. S. Titus and others 11 Feb. 3, 1857
Canton Court Sarah Lane won her case of breach of promise of marriage against Henry Lemery Jr. He was fined $329.  Henry Moore was convicted of petit larceny, and later was sentenced to 2 yrs 3 months hard labor.  Walter Beckwith pleaded guilty to grand larceny, and was sentenced later to 3 yrs 3 mos. hard labor at Dannemora prison (see also Feb. 27, 1856) 2 Feb. 22, 1856
Canton Court John Covey was acquitted of burglary.  Almer G. Barnes was arraigned for keeping a bowling alley.  Joel Morton was arraigned for keeping a billiard room. Edward Paraquette was fined $50 for selling liquor 2 Feb. 25, 1856
Canton Independent our old friend O. L. Ray has pulled up stakes in Madrid and set them back down in Canton. A copy of the newspaper, The Independent, arrived in Ogdensburg Mar. 15, 1852 11 Mar. 16, 1852.
Canton woman arrested Mrs. Smith, of Canton, was arrested in Kingston Ont. for poisoning an elderly man from Potsdam named Elijah Pease, who had a good horse and carriage and $800, and who was foolish enough to steal away from his own wife and travel with this murderess as man and wife.  (Note: Malone Palladium of May 29, 1851 gives her name as Mrs. Smith, which is correct, but the Reformer listed her previous husband's name "French" .  see also "Murder details" from Apr. 29, 1851) 10 May 15, 1851
Carthage-Champlain Road the state road from Carthage to Champlain is nearly completed and is already heavily traveled. 11 Sep. 16, 1851
census of children it was announced that there are 4220 children in St. Lawrence Co. between the ages of 4 and 21, with 2782 of them residing in Ogdensburg 8 Mar. 28, 1854
champion pigs Solomon Walrath of Rensselaer Falls killed 2 pigs on Dec. 6, 1853, each 9 mos. old, one 303 lbs and the other 350 lbs!  Their mother was only 10 months old when she gave birth to them. 8 Dec. 20, 1853
champion squash J. L. Wooley of Ogdensburg submitted a squash to the County Fair in Canton weighing in at 221 pounds! 2 Sep. 24, 1855
Charles King arrested Charles King of Ogdensburg was arrested after he broke into a shop and stole some tools.  He got $15 and 60 days in jail 7 Dec. 31, 1858
Chateaugay accident the frame of the new Baptist Church in Chateaugay collapsed as workmen were about to set the rafters.  Tim Bryant suffered internal injuries and was spitting up blood.  Edgar Copps was badly bruised.  Mr Leggett of Burke was also badly bruised, while Frederick Vaughn broke his arm. Victor Trephin of Bellmont suffered internal injuries as did James McCamie.  Oscar Tabor hurt both arms and a leg and James Denio broke his foot and had other injuries 11 Sep. 14, 1858
Chateaugay tornado the village of Chateaugay in Franklin Co. and parts of the towns of Burke and Constable were heavily damaged by a tornado June 30, 1856. 8 Jul. 8, 1856
cheap food Thanksgiving turkeys were on sale in Ogdensburg in November of 1857 for 8 cents/lb.  It has been years since they were that cheap. 7 Nov. 25, 1857
chicken thieves juveniles William Hooligan and Michael Hawks were arrested for stealing 31 chickens in Ogdensburg. A note 3 days later says that they are worthless scamps who will probably be sent to the House of Refuge 7 Aug. 25 & 28, 1858
cholera epidemic Ogdensburg suffered a cholera epidemic which began Jul. 11, 1854 and had killed 85 people as of Aug. 28, 1854 8 Aug. 29, 1854
Circuit Court Feb. 1851 Lawrence Bradley was given 4 yrs and 2 mos in Clinton prison for grand larceny. Daniel Low got 2 yrs and 2 mos for passing counterfeits.  Judson Smith was convicted forging receipts of delivery of black salts at Martin Thatcher's ashery in Canton and trying to withdraw money from Thatcher's store. Nicholas Ashley was convicted of girdling shade trees and sentenced to 20 days and $20 fine. 11 Feb. 25, 1851
Circuit Court June 1854 Jane E. Kellogg sued Timothy McCurdy for breach of promise of marriage. McCurdy's first wife died in Sep. 1851 and he had told Miss Kellogg that he would marry her.  But in Mar. 1852, he married another. She arranged an interview in Sep. 1853 during which McCurdy admitted within earshot of Miss Kellogg's brother (concealed in the chicken coop) that he had indeed promised her.  The jury found for the plaintiff and fined McCurdy $125. Both lived in Hermon.  A letter submitted the next month suggests that it was a set-up by the Kellogg family 11 June 27 & Jul. 25, 1854
Circuit Court June '55 George Pierce was convicted of stealing a bushel of rye from a barn in Hopkinton and got 2 years in prison.  Sylvius Towle, 15 got 30 days in county jail for stealing tools in Madrid.  Henry Capell, ae 13, was convicted of stealing a dollar and was sent to the county jail for 30 days. Henry Talbot pleaded not guilty to embezzling money from the Ogdensburg firm of Watrous and Lawrence. He broke out of jail in August, but was re-captured at the Northern Hotel in DeKalb. 11 June 19 & Aug. 21, 1855.
Circuit Court Oct. '59 Henry Marshall was convicted of larceny and sent to the House of Correction in Rochester. James H. Winslow, a mute, was sentenced to 30 days for having stolen $25 from Mr. Aaron's safe in Ogdensburg.  James Powers got 2 yrs 7 mos for his second petit larceny offense.  Charles H. Smith could not post bail on his rape indictment so will be jailed until the December session.  Julius Martin plead guilty to petit larceny but was not sentenced. Charles Mott plead guilty to petit larceny and was jailed for 20 days. Edward Waldron has been arrested for removing a rail from the track of the Northern Railroad. 11 Oct. 25, 1859
close call Mr. Thomas Ferguson, a cartman of Ogdensburg fell on the tines of a pitchfork Oct. 29, 1856 with one of the tines going near the heart 8 Nov. 4, 1856
Colfax returns W. W. Colfax, youngest son of the late R. W. Colfax of Ogdensburg, returned home after an absence of 5 or 6 years, having gone around the world three times. 8 May 27, 1856
Collins A. Burnham breaks leg Collins A. Burnham, teller at the Ogdensburgh Bank, fell on the icy sidewalk Feb. 18, 1851, breaking his leg a few inches above the ankle. 8 Feb. 25, 1851
conflagration in Ogdensburg a large section of downtown Ogdensburg was reduced to ashes by a fire Oct. 19, 1852. 11 Oct. 26, 1852
Conner, James notice is hereby given that an application to the Governor will be made for the pardon of James Conner now in Clinton Prison.  He was convicted of assault and battery with intent to kill (his own brother) in Feb. 1848. 12 Mar. 13, 1850
convictions Feb. 21, 1859 John Donahue was convicted of assault with intent etc. and sentenced to 3 yrs 6 mos. in Clinton prison. Charles Johnson was convicted of grand larceny and received 2 yrs and 3 mos in Clinton prison.  Thomas Barnes got 30 days in the county jail for petit larceny.   7 Feb. 21, 1859
convictions Jul. 1858 W. V. Babcock of DeKalb was fined $20 for violation of the excise law.  William Smith of Ogdensburg was put in jail 15 days for beating up his wife 7 Jul. 9, 1858
convictions June 1857 John Sweeney was arrested for getting tight and fined $10 or 10 days work on the road.  He paid the fine.  Henry Mundsley was arrested for being drunk and disorderly, sent to Canton for 10 days.  Mrs. Gilligan was arrested again for excise law violations and posted bail. Abram Longshore was tried and discharged for forgery 7 June 29, 1857
Cooley makes good E. E. Cooley, formerly of Ogdensburg, has just been elected to the Iowa General Assembly 7 Nov. 24, 1857.
County Court Aug. '54 James Bromley of Fine was convicted of rape and sentenced to 10 years in the state prison. James Reece of Madrid was found not guilty of stealing Mr. Hathaway's wallet containing $60. 11 Aug. 8, 1854
Court cases Apr. 1859 George McKenzie, ae 15 was sentenced to the House of Correction in Rochester for petit larceny.  William McKane was tried for seduction under promise of marriage but the jury could not agree on a verdict. Mrs. Julia Tupper of Colton was held on $1000 bail indicted for feloniously administering poison to her husband Dolphus Tupper.  11
Court docket Oct. 1857 John Proctor, a colored man, was convicted of burglary and given 10 years in prison.  Magaret Longueil of Potsdam  was convicted of arson (burning a haystack) and given 6 yrs 7 mos in the women's prison.  Nelson Rogers was acquitted of burglary, but John Murphy of DeKalb was convicted and got 2 years in prison. They had broken into the train station in Richville and stolen 100 lbs. of flour. George Wheeler alias William Clinton, was convicted of grand larceny on two counts and was sentenced to a total of 5 years 7 mos. (St. Lawrence Republican version lists William Wheeler instead of George.) James Woodley of Lisbon got 3 years at Dannemora for incest.   (see also St. Lawrence Republican Oct. 20, 1857) 7 Oct. 19, 1857
Court doings Aug. '52 Peter Clute Jr., formerly of Black Lake, pleaded guilty to forging a $100 note of the Ogdensburg Bank and got 2 years in Clinton prison.  William Duberry of Madrid pleaded guilty to grand larceny and got the same sentence.  John Cotton was convicted of assaulting a little girl named Ellen Weir with intent to ravish and was also sent to Dannemora for 2 years 11 Aug. 10, 1852
Court doings Aug. '59 Martin Cleflin was pleaded guilty to his second offense of larceny and got 2 years in Clinton prison.  Joseph Atwood also got convicted of his second petit larceny offense.  Joseph Boyce was guilty of burglary and larceny.  Charles Page pleaded guilty to seduction, with a suspended sentence. Joseph Miller was guilty of forgery. Peter Rexford plead guilty to larceny and got 10 days in jail.  Charles Grant was convicted of perjury. He had lied in the seduction trial of his uncle John Grant, who was fined $1300 at the last court and is being tried again for seduction under promise of marriage 11 Sep. 6, 1859
Court doings Dec. '53 Benjamin Olney got 3 months in jail and a $50 fine for obtaning goods under false pretenses from Thomas D. Skinner of Ogdensburg.  George H. Farr was convicted of 4th degree forgery and received a sentence of 3 months in county jail.  Joseph Foster will get a new trial for grand larceny, as the jury could not agree.  George Lovering got 10 days in jail and a fine of $15 for assault and battery on his own wife 11 Dec. 13, 1853.
Court doings Feb. '52 Abram Demarais was convicted on his own confession of stealing a horse and sentenced to 2 years in Clinton prison.  Joseph and Abram Baise were convicted of burglary and petit larceny for breaking into a Canton barn and stealing a small quantity of wheat.  They were each given 2 years in prison.  Philip Hazag of Ogdensburg was given 12 years and 2 mos for 5 counts of forgery and one of perjury.  John Donovan was convicted for the murder of James Rowley and sentenced to be hanged in Canton Apr. 16, 1852. 11 Feb. 24, 1852
Court doings Feb. '59 John Donohue was convicted of assault with intent to kill and given 3 yrs 6 mos in Dannemora prison.  Charles Johnson was convicted of grand larceny and given 2 yrs 3 mos in prison.  11 Feb. 22, 1859
Court doings Feb.'54 Abram Dudy and J. S. Williams were both given prison terms for forgery.  Ebenezer Olney, another prisoner, helped them break jail 11 Feb. 28, 1854
court martialed Capt. Ira Hamilton of the 33rd Regt. of militia was court martialed for refusing to perform his duty as an officer and several other charges.  He was convicted and cashiered and precluded from ever holding a military commission 8 June 6, 1854
Court matters June '53 Ann McArdle was acquitted of infanticide.  Thomas Mayne was also acquitted on a charge of aiding and abetting his cousin Alexander Mayne escaping after the killing of Samuel Snoddy. George Mayne, however, was fined $150 for assault.  Alonzo Hutchins fined $50 for riot and assault. E. Perkins was tried for assault, but not convicted.  John Dempsey's trial for burglary and larceny was put over to another term of Court 11 June 28, 1853
cow collision another runaway horse in Ogdensburg.  He ran down Ford St. and turned up Isabela St., at which time he collided with a cow and upset her propellers.  The collision checked his momentum and made him an easy captive. 7 Feb. 12, 1859
cows on the sidewalks although there is a Potsdam village by-law prohibiting cattle from running at large between the hours of 9PM and 4AM, a large number of cows can be found under the shade trees upon the walks in several parts of the village. 12 June 19, 1850.
Dakotah this is the name proposed for the new territory organized out of the western regions of Minnesota. 11 Oct. 18, 1859.
dangerous toy a small boy named John Rosseel lost the tips of three of his fingers while playing with a straw cutter in the Tremont barn in Ogdensburg  on Aug. 24, 1857 7 Aug. 25, 1857
daredevil a boy named John Carrier jumped off the Oswegatchie bridge in Ogdensburg Aug. 14, 1857, and liked it so well he repeated the feat several times 7 Aug. 15, 1857.
deaf man arrested James Winslow, a deaf and dumb man, was convicted in Brockville, Ont. for stealing a horse and sentenced to 8 months in jail.  He used to work at the printing offices in Ogdensburg about 2 years ago 7 Oct. 29, 1857.
deaf woman missing Mary Esther Gurvin left Spencerville, Ont. Aug. 2, 1857 and was in Morristown when last heard of. She is 17 and large for her age, entirely deaf and shows symptoms of insanity sometimes. She may be heading to Troy, NY where she was born. Her mother, Ann Jenkinson of Spencerville, or John Nash of Ogdensburg would be grateful for any information 7 Aug. 31, 1857
death sentence James R. Eldridge, ae 22, was sentenced to hang next Feb. 11, 1858 for the murder of Mrs. Sarah Jane Gould (nee Loughery) of Louisville, which he committed  May 30, 1857.  In December 1858, the Young America newspaper in Canton said that he was so sick that doctors did not think he would survive, and that steps were taken to let him stay with friends instead of the jail. Mrs. Gould was a widow and only 24 years old. (The Daily Journal of Feb. 21, 1859 says that he is to be granted a new trial, possibly in either Albany or Rensselaer Co.) In Mar. 1859, he was granted a new trial to be held in Saratoga Co., but died before he got it. 8 Dec. 29, 1857 & Mar. 7, 1859
December 17 1858 arrests in Ogdensburg John O'Neill was arrested Dec. 16, 1858 for drunk and disorderly. "He is one of those free and easy chaps who doesn't care if school keeps or not " and was "employed holding down the sidewalk on Ford St." Emma Gordon was arrested and fined $5 for assault and battery.   7 Dec. 17, 1858.
December 2 1858 arrests in Ogdensburg John Farden was given a fine of $10 or 40 days in jail for drunk and disorderly and attacking Officer Chapin in the jail.  William Stevens was arrested for disorderly and rowdy conduct.  John Wilson was arrested for abusing his family.  He is an Englishman and believes a wife is to be beaten at the whim of her lord 7 Dec. 2, 1858
DeKalb Junction there is a movement about to push for a railroad branch which would connect Ogdensburg with the Watertown and Potsdam railroad, to intercept the present tracks near the Forest House inn on the Gouverneur-Canton road, a distance of 16 miles.  (see also St. Lawrence Republican Aug. 21, 1855) 8 Nov. 27, 1855
DeKalb thief Mrs. Ellen Dawson was caught stealing merchandise from a store in Ogdensburg, and when police went to her DeKalb home, they discovered that she had also stolen 30 yards of calico.  She got a suspended sentence on account of her poverty and children 11 Oct 25, 1859
DeKalb trotters the sporting types in the Town of DeKalb have set up a trotting course at DeKalb Village which runs one third of a mile. In the first race, P. Porter's Bold Tiger took on Dr. Suterland's chestnut mare Crazy Jane.  Crazy Jane won.  In the second race S. Slosson's bay mare Kitty raced against Mr. White's bay gelding Red Bird.  Again the mare won. 7 Jul. 30, 1859
demise of the Free Press the last issue of the Free Press was issued Jan. 31, 1856, as it is merging with the Sentinel, which is also an Ogdensburg paper. 2 Feb. 2, 1856
demolition of old Catholic church the old Catholic church in Ogdensburg was being demolished in September, 1855 2 Sep. 17, 1855
dentist relocates Dr. S. S. Blodgett, dentist, has relocated to Brockville, Ont. 11 May 30, 1854
Depeyster camp meeting the camp meeting in Depeyster was unusually large, with 64 tents spread out at one time 7 Sep. 22, 1857.
Depeyster Methodists the new Methodist Church in Depeyster was dedicated Feb. 18, 1858. That makes the 4th new Methodist church dedicated in St. Lawrence Co. in the last 15 months 11 Feb. 23, 1858
desperate mother an Irish girl who has been living 6 miles back of Brockville, Ont. was seduced by a man and gave birth to a male baby about 5 weeks ago.  Friends told her to go to Ogdensburg and abandon the baby and the Poor House would care for him. She got off the Prescott ferry, and waited by the fence near Dr. Benton's house on State St. She left the baby on the doorstep.  When she went to take the ferry back to Canada, she was questioned as to the whereabouts of the baby, and ran away.  She was arrested on the Black Lake Rd about a mile out of town, heading towards Ogdensburg because of a change of heart, and mother and child were put in the Town House 11 Oct. 18, 1859.
diploma Julius Merritt of Crary's Mill has graduated from the State Normal School. 11 Feb. 14, 1854.
disorderly conduct Joel Nowland of Ogdensburg was convicted of disorderly conduct and given 30 days in jail at Canton. 7 May 21, 1858
doctor gets hurt Dr. R. D. Nash of Canton was taking his rifle from a canoe at Big Bog on the Racket River and somehow raised the hammer and it went off. The bullet went into his left arm and lodged in his shoulder blade 11 Nov. 17, 1857
dog power Davis and Co. at Brasher Iron Works have invented a dog-powered engine for use in a dairy. 7 May 19, 1858
domestic incident a woman named Gallagher tried to drown herself in a pond on Mr. Parish's land near the railroad depot Apr. 19, 1859.  She had just had a fight with her husband, and neighbors had to pull her out and prevent her from going back in 11 Apr. 26, 1859.
drowning a man from Prescott, Ont. named Delaney got drunk in one of the illegal taverns in Ogdensburg, then attempted to walk home over the ice, fell through a hole and drowned 8 Feb. 5, 1856
drownings at Rossie two young ladies, ages 19 and 21 were drowned at Rossie on May 26, 1850.  They were in a boat with a boy and realized they had no oars as they approached the falls near the smelting works.  They jumped overboard and drowned. 11 May 28, 1850
drunken assault Riley Bickford of Lawrenceville got drunk Sep. 2, 1856 and stabbed Dr. E. W. Sprague in the abdomen, but his wound is not serious. 11 Sep. 9, 1856
eagles captured a son of James Clements of Lisbon Center has captured 2 eagles 8 Aug. 10, 1858
early vegetables Mr. A. W. Wooley brought a load of new potatoes, carrots and beets to the office of the Daily Journal in Ogdensburg.  They were raised in the Marshfield Gardens on the Heuvelton Road and are in advance of anything in the market so far 7 Jul. 1, 1858
earthquake! there was a minor earthquake which was felt in Ogdensburg Jan. 5, 1856 at 12:15 AM.  No real damage was done 8 Jan. 8, 1856
Edenton, NY the 2nd Assistant Postmaster of the US recently responded to a query thusly:  "Edenton is a new PO located in St. Lawrence Co. NY 5 miles from DePeyster NE, 5 miles from Popes Mills SE, and 9 miles from Heuvelton NE" 12 Jul. 31, 1850
editor and postmaster Harry C. Fay, editor of the Potsdam Courier, has been appointed postmaster for Potsdam 11 June 23, 1857
Emma again Emma Gordon was arrested in Ogdensburg Mar. 5, 1859 for disorderly conduct. She asked for 3 days in order to raise the $10 fine, but the judge said "no go", so she got 40 days in Canton jail instead.  She is a notorious character. (see also arrests Dec. 17, 1858) 7 Mar. 5, 1859.
Emma third time around Emma Gordon was accused in Ogdensburg Aug. 4, 1859 of being drunk and disorderly, and she replied that she "supposed everybody knew that".  She had a pint flask on her at the time.  Jane Wilson was arrested at the same time. 7 Aug. 5 & 8, 1859
equal pay for equal work there is quite a difference in salaries for the governors of the various states.  Rhode Island, the smallest state, also pays the least:  $400 per annum.  California, on the other hand , pays $10,000!.  Louisiana is second with $6,000.  Brigham Young gets $2500 from the US Treasury to outrage heaven and abuse and disgrace the earth as governor of the Utah Territory 11 Jan. 27, 1852
excise law fine Hyacynthe LaTremoulle, saloon keeper on Isabela St. was fined $50 for violation of the excise law 7 Mar. 26, 1858
fair fight John Mills claimed he could beat all the McLeans at once, to which John McLean took humbrage and sailed in.  Mills got battered, Mac got stabbed in the hand, and they both got sent to jail 7 Aug. 8, 1859
farm accident George Sweet, ae 17 of Nicholville, got his leather mitten caught in a threshing machine and it pulled his hand in, mangling it so badly that it had to be amputated 2 Nov. 17, 1855
Farmer's tavern burns Harvey Farmer's tavern in Lawrenceville burned completely Aug. 30, 1853. 4 Sep. 22, 1853
fast marriage on Friday, Sep. 22, 1854, I. G. Stillwell of Ogdensburg performed the marriage of a shoemaker and a "large, double fisted, masculine appearing" woman.  By Monday, the shoemaker had other thoughts and requested a divorce from Mr. Stillwell, which he explained was not possible. On Wednesday, a British soldier from Kingston landed and claimed the woman as his own sweet missing wife, and they left together. 8 Oct. 3, 1854.
fearful accident in Lawrenceville a Frenchman from Dickinson by the name of Reshaw (Richard?)was killed at Whitney's Mill in Lawrenceville on Apr. 18, 1850.  His frock got tangled in the shaft and he was spun around so violently that his feet were severed, ribs and neck broken, arm shivered the whole length and literally scalped.  He leaves a wife and seven children ranging in age from 12 years to 3 days 12 Apr. 24, 1850
female doctor dies the only female doctor in St. Lawrence Co. died Aug. 1, 1854.  Dr. Minerva Jane Averell of Madrid died of consumption only 6 months after completing her studies at Syracuse Medical College. 8 Aug. 15, 1854
Ferguson, Deborah information is wanted on Deborah Ferguson who left Brockville, Ont. in the winter of 1847-48.  Her mother Mary Ferguson of Ogdensburg has not heard from her since then  8 May 13, 1851
fight over baggage William Welsh, porter at the American Hotel in Ogdensburg, got into a fight with 2 porters from the Johnson House hotel, William Bannon and Robert McNana.  Welsh ended up having his face badly beaten 7 Sep. 16, 1858
first accident on the road two people were hurt Nov. 25, 1858 about 3 miles west of Madrid when the passenger car of the Ogdensburg RR train was thrown from the track.  Mr. Geer had his foot crushed, but no bones broken. Mr. Cyprian Powell of Madrid broke a leg and was otherwise badly hurt.  This is the first accident to happen on this railroad in the 9 years of its existence.  Mr. Powell ended up having the leg amputated Dec. 15, 1858 7 Nov. 26 & Dec. 17, 1858
first steamer ferry an article describes the history of steamships used as ferries between Ogdensburg and Prescott.  The first was called the "Pup" and was wider than it was long. It was owned by Eri Lusher.  The "Paul Pry" was built in Heuvelton and brought to Ogdensburg in 1834.  It was hauled over the dam one Saturday evening to get to the St. Lawrence. 8 Apr. 29, 1856
five men killed in boiler explosion five men on board the steam tug "Hercules" were killed when the boiler exploded near Waddington at the foot of Ogden Island Oct. 9, 1858.  The tug was pulling "New Era" up the Rapide du Plat when the boiler exploded.  Those killed were : Dexter Calvin, Fellick Killen, Patrick Maloney (or Malone) Daniel Doyle and John Kinnersley/Kinsley 7 Oct. 9, 11, &  20; Nov. 11, 1858
Ford St. done Mr. Buxton has completed the work of macadamizing Ford St. in Ogdensburg and did such a good job it will probably not need repairs for years. 7 Aug. 15, 1857.
forty-seven states? although there are 31 states in the Union now, it is possible that there may be 47 in the future.  Oregon, Kansas and Minnesota are already clamoring for admission.  Then perhaps Nebraska, New Mexico and Washington.  Texas may be carved into 4 more states, bringing us up to 41.  Likewise, California may be broken into 3 pieces, giving 43 . Finally, Neosho, Dacota, Columbia and Utah would bring the total to 47. 11 Dec. 8, 1857
Francis Lundy arrested Francis Lundy was arrested in Ogdensburg for drunkeness Mar. 19, 1856, and sentenced to 10 days in jail.  2 Mar. 20, 1856
free ride the tolls on the Ogdensburg-Canton Plank Road are to be abolished as of May 1, 1858 7 Apr. 29, 1858
Free Soiler Julius E. Merritt of Stockholm passed through Ogdensburg June 11, 1856 on his way to Kansas.  He is a Free State man. 8 June 17, 1856
French Catholics Fr. LaMercie has been celebrating Mass in the Eagle Hall in Ogdensburg these last 3 weeks for the French Catholics of Ogdensburg. There is talk that the Mansion House may be used in the future for their religious services 11 May 3, 1859.
French woman killed two French women were struck by lightning as they were returning to Lawrenceville after picking strawberries.  One was instantly killed and the other gravely injured. 7 Jul. 5, 1859.
friendly girls Julia Wood and Mary Wilson were arrested Mar. 23, 1859 in Ogdensburg for soliciting.  They are both very frail creatures who walk the streets at night. 11 Mar. 29, 1859
future general Newton Martin Curtis has been appointed Postmaster at Depeyster. He is the tallest man in town. 11 May 5, 1857
golden anniversary #1 Deacon John Shepard celebrated his 50th wedding anniversary in Canton Feb. 26, 1859, with many children and grandchildren in attendance 7 Mar. 5, 1859.
golden anniversary #2 Mr. and Mrs. Smith Stilwell celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Apr. 11, 1859 in Ogdensburg.  Unusually, the witnesses at their wedding in Albany, Mr. and Mrs. George Guest, were also in attendance. (Their own golden anniversary will be in 1861).  Mrs. Stilwell and Mrs. Guest are sisters. 7 Apr. 12, 1859
good exercise John Lightfoot, ae 57, a worker for Mr. Vilas' boot and shoe shop, has walked the mile and a half from his home to work and then back every work day for the last 13 years.  That is a total of 12,207 miles. 11 Aug. 19, 1851
good grade the proposed route of the Watertown-Potsdam railroad is so flat that there is scarcely a cut or fill from Watertown to Antwerp that is more than 3 feet. 11 Nov. 11, 1851.
Gouverneur cemetery the Riverside Cemetery in Gouverneur is being consecrated June 23, 1858 7 June 18, 1858
grape thieves! five lads, ages 9 to 12, were arrested in Ogdensburg for stealing grapes from local gardens.  They wept bitterly and promised everything if they could be let out of the Ogdensburg city jail 7 Oct. 9, 1858
grist mill John Pickens of Heuvelton has just overhauled his grist mill and supplied it with 3 runs of stones and a corn cracker.  The mill was built by that prince of builders, James R. Fulton of Madrid, and the castings came from Alexander and Skinner at Brasher Iron Works 11 Nov. 11, 1851.
grove meeting there will be a grove meeting in Rensselaer Falls Aug. 22, 1859 at the farm of the widow Hinsdale. (She may have been the widow of George Hinsdale who had died 6 months earlier) 7 Aug. 12, 1859
Hercules rises again the steam tug Hercules, which exploded last fall near Waddington, is being raised and brought back to its home port of Kingston, Ont. 11 May 3, 1859.
Hermon mail route Horace Barnes and C. H. Pitts have won the contract to carry mail between Ogdensburg and Hermon.  They leave Ogdensburg at 4 AM, get to Forest House at 8 AM, and Hermon at 9 AM.  They leave there at 2 PM, get to Forest House at 3, then back in Ogdensburg at 8 PM 11 June 30, 1857
holiday accident a young man named Poore lost a hand at the 4th of July celebrations in Madrid due to the pre-mature discharge of a cannon 8 Jul. 8, 1851
home again Henry C. Brown, son of A. C. Brown of Ogdensburg has just returned from California where he had been for the last 18 months. 11 Dec. 20, 1853.
Hopkins fined Moody Hopkins was fined $10 in Ogdensburg for being intoxicated. 2 Feb. 28, 1856
horse in a jewelry store Mr. Elliott Bell had an unwelcome shopper in his Ogdensburg jewelry store June 1, 1859. A horse belonging to Mr. Neal, accompanied by the shafts of a wagon, ran into the store and tore things up generally.  After making a couple of vain attempts to escape through the back window, he settled down and was led out the back door. Damage was estimated at at least $500 7 June 1, 1859
horse thief caught Walter Beckwith, the man who stole Mr. Stillwell's horse a week ago was captured in Jefferson Co. by Daniel Magone of Ogdensburg 8 Feb. 5, 1856.
house of ill repute Officers Goodno and Chapin arrested the following women in a bawdy house in the upper part of Ogdensburg: Julia Wood, Harriet Daily, Angeline Nelson, Caroline N. Clemons, and Olive Dixon.  They were all sent to county jail to be tried.   7 Aug. 2, 1859.
hunting accident James Halligan of Ogdensburg lost the use of an arm through the accidental discharge of a gun while hunting. 2 Dec. 7, 1855
Hyde brothers this is to forbid all persons harboring or trusting my sons Abel Hyde Jr. and Martin V. Hyde, as I shall pay no debts of their contracting.          Abel Hyde, Oct. 11, 1859 11 Oct. 11, 1859
incest Smiton G. Irish was sentenced to 10 years hard labor in Clinton prison for incest with his own daughters 11 Apr. 13, 1852
indecent exposure Betsey Ferguson was arrested from Ives' store on Water St. She was drunk and improperly exposing her person.  She is small but spiteful. 7 Jan. 14, 1858
indoor plumbing Mr. W. C. Brown and E. N. Fairchild have placed a hydraulic ram under the spillway of the dam in Ogdensburg for the purpose of supplying their houses with soft water. The pipes to their houses are now being laid through the streets 8 Sep. 12, 1854
infant found John Bell found an abandoned baby Jul. 25, 1858 on Water St. in Ogdensburg near his home.  The little boy was happy and well dressed. He was brought to the home of Mr. Blondi to be cared for. 11 Jul. 27, 1858
infant killed a woman calling herself Ann Murray or Mrs. Ann Morell was believed to have given birth to a baby boy and leaving him to die under the floor of a building on the William Halladay farm 6 miles towards Morristown from Ogdensburg. She had worked for a short time for Horace Hulburt, then left and asked Harrison Sawyer (who runs an inn) for work but was refused. 11 Mar. 1, 1853
infanticide the body of an infant was found in a brook near the highway near Brasher Falls June 22, 1859. The coroner's jury determined that Hannah Lar____ (page cut) was the mother and that she killed the baby. (mother's name appears to be Larry, or more likely, Leary, according to the Jul 5, 1859 St. Lawrence Republican) 7 June 28, 1859
info wanted William Henry Kelly, whose parents live in Lisbon, left Canton in Apr. 1858, where he had been working for 3 months.  Anyone with information about him please contact Michael Kelly, Flackville 11 Dec. 20, 1859
intemperance a Frenchman named Purvee died recently in Lisbon.  He had taken some grain to be ground at Red Mills, and while waiting became intoxicated at Armstong's tavern. On the way home, he fell off the buggy and into a culvert where the body was found Dec. 4, 1859. The Coroner said death was due to intoxication and exposure 10 Dec. 15, 1859.
Irish shanties an alarm was called out in Ogdensburg Aug. 8, 1854, but it turned out to be just the Board of Health burning down some Irish shanties in an effort to prevent the spread of cholera. 16 Aug. 12, 1854
jail break a man named McCue escaped from the County Jail Oct. 2, 1855 2 Oct. 8, 1855
James Lightfoot arrested James Lightfoot was arrested for drunkeness in Ogdensburg Apr. 10, 1856 2 Apr. 12, 1856
jewelry store burglary Obediah Weller, ae 18, was arrested in Ogdensburg on suspicion of burglary, and on Aug. 2 was committed to jail to await trial. (also reported in Aug. 2, 1859 St. Lawrence Republican) 7 Jul. 31 & Aug. 2, 1859
John King fined John King was fined $10 in Ogdensburg for being drunk 7 Jul. 7, 1857
laborer killed a laborer working in the gravel pit near the Forest House in the Town of Canton was killed when the bank collapsed Mar. 23, 1857.  He was one of a crew working on the railroad 11 Mae. 31, 1857
Leonard, William N. Alvah Leonard of Pierrepont warns others not to deal with his son William N. Leonard, who had left his house and employ 12 Sep. 25, 1850
lightning strike James Ashwood was struck by lightning at the railroad wharf in Ogdensburg Jul. 16, 1857.  He was holding an iron bar which was struck, throwing him off the scow 7 Jul. 21, 1857
lightning strikes home Cornelius Morgan's house in Parishville was struck by lightning Apr. 11, 1859. The bolt hit the stove pipe and blew out all the windows of the house, but Mr. and Mrs. Morgan were not injured 7 Apr. 20, 1859
lightning tragedy a 7 yr old adopted son of William Burton, Frederick Clark, was struck and killed by lightning June 20, 1853.  Mr. Burton was also hit, and his watch melted, shoes blown off etc. but he survived.  James Robb, a stout athletic man, was knocked down but not hurt 11 June 21, 1853
like husband, like wife Mrs. Catherine McIntosh was arrested in Ogdensburg for disorderly conduct and sent to jail for 30 days.  Her husband is currently doing 60 days himself. 7 May 26, 1859
liquor flows freely again the New York State Court of Appeals declared the so-called "Maine Law" unconstitutional.  It had been in effect for about a year, during which time it was illegal to sell liquor in NYS. 2 Mar. 28, 1856
liquor licenses the issue of May 25, 1859 lists approximately 50 county residents who had paid for licenses to sell liquor either in taverns or in stores 7 May 25, 1859
liquor violation J(oseph). M. Johnson was convicted of giving liquor to Augustus Hall, a minor 2 Jan. 14, 1856
liquor violation crackdown Mary Hickey, Henry Heartstein and James Cooper were all arraigned in Ogdensburg for liquor law violations.  All three were convicted in Ogdensburg court and fined $50.  The police are trying to root out some of the wicked places that fill the town with rowdyism. (Cooper was again jailed in Nov. 1857 for the same offense) 7 Sep. 22, 1857.
Lisbon bear Austin J. Goss and Enos Eastman killed a bear in Lisbon near the cold springs on Feb. 12, 1853 which weighed 215 pounds 11 Feb. 22, 1853
Lisbon burglary the Thomas Spofford home in Lisbon was burglarized in Mar. 1859 7 Mar. 21, 1859
Lisbon Center Post Office John McBride is the Postmaster at the new PO in Lisbon Center 8 Jan. 14, 1851
little girl drowns a 7 year old girl drowned in the Oswegatchie River canal in Ogdensburg May 21, 1859 7 May 23, 1859
little stranger another little stranger was left on the doorstep of one of our most respectable citizens Oct. 15, 1859.  The female baby was put into the hands of the Superintendent of the Poor 11 Oct. 18, 1859.
locking horns Anson Ives killed two bucks in Edwards as they were struggling against each other, with antlers locked.  So firmly were they intertwined in fact, that the heads had to be severed in order to take the carcasses away separately 10 Dec. 15, 1859.
lucky boy Frederick Fawcett, ae 7, fell into the Oswegatchie River Apr. 26, 1856 and floated downstream several rods before being rescued by a workman 2 Apr. 29, 1856
Lundy brothers have a bad week Robert Lundy, arrested Mar. 29, 1859 was convicted of assault and battery and got 20 days in jail. He came home drunk and tried to beat up his wife, choked her severely and had one of his fingers bitten in reciprocity. His brother, Francis Lundy, was arrested the next day for drunkeness.  He is commonly known as "Buckshot" Lundy and got 10 days in jail. 11 Apr. 5, 1859.
Madrid and Lisbon boys the large company of Madrid and Lisbon men who are headed to California were leaving NYC on the steamer "Pioneer" Jan. 22, 1852.  The paper lists the names of about 45 men. 11 Jan. 27, 1852
mahogany buggy a crowd gathered on Ford St. in Ogdensburg to admire the new buggy which A. Callghan built for William Bell of Depeyster.  The box is made of mahogany. 8 Sep. 7, 1858
maiden name a woman whose maiden name was Betsey Ferguson was arrested in Ogdensburg for public intoxication. 7 Jul. 23, 1857
mail theft Samuel Lane and Samuel Hodge were arrested for stealing from the US Mail.  They were both stage drivers between Ogdensburg, DeKalb and Gouverneur.  The were arrested Mar. 5, 1855 at a bawdy house just outside Ogdensburg by Col. Henry Barber of Canton, the Deputy US Marshall for Northern New York. Lane broke out of jail in August, and was not re-taken until much later.  He was given 5 years in prison in Sep. 1855 11 Mar. 13 & Aug. 21, 1855.
maimed for life Augustus Redway, ae 7 and son of H(arvey). N. Redway of Potsdam had his right arm caught in the gears of a horse power used for sawing wood. The arm came off at the elbow and asked if another could be attached.  He said if another could be attached, he would not worry about it so much.  His older brother just died a few weeks ago in February. (q.v) (from the Potsdam Courier) 11 Mar. 29, 1853
Maine Law chronicle the history of the Maine Laws (ie prohibition) in the different states is listed in this issue 11 Jul. 24, 1855
make way! a horse and cutter monopolized the north side of Ford St. in Ogdensburg for a minute or two Mar. 5, 1858, as the freightened beast took to the sidewalk, encouraging pedestrians there to yield the right of way. 7 Mar. 6, 1858.
Malone Gazette the Malone Gazette is up for sale, Mr. Flanders having been associated with it for almost 16 years (note:  this may actually be the Franklin Gazette but published in Malone since 1847 ) 8 May 16, 1854
mammoth cake on Aug. 5, 1858 there was a school examination held at Chase's Mills, at the school which serves pupils from Louisville and Madrid. A mammoth cake was constructed by Mrs. Sarah Caryl, under the direction of the teacher Miss Elizabeth C. Kilton of Louisville. The base of the cake was 3 feet square, and in the shape of a pyramid. It cost $30, wighed 250 lbs and required 40 dozen eggs. 11 Aug. 10, 1858
man drowns, woman and child survive Christopher Collinger drowned in the St. Lawrence River Mar. 25, 1856.  He was crossing with a Mrs. Putney and her 2 year old about 5 miles upriver from Waddington when the boat capsized. He drowned, but she was able to hold onto the boat with her hands and to the child with her teeth 2 Apr. 10, 1856
mansion burns Henry van Rensselaer's house was destroyed by fire Nov. 16, 1855. The St. Lawrence Republican of Nov. 20, 1855 states it was caused by a furious lightning storm 2 Nov. 17, 1855
marble works by 1859, the Ogdensburg Marble Works were located right across from the cemetery on State St. 7 June 6, 1859
Massena Center PO a post office has been established in Massena Center with Augustus Wheeler as the Postmaster 11 Aug. 19, 1851
McAllister, Aaron Jesse McAllister of Stockholm gives notice that his son Aaron has left his house without permission and forbids anyone from harboring him. (Aaron was still in Stockholm in 1870) 12 May 1, 1850
McDonald, Anna Whereas Anna my wife utterly refuses to live with me…etc. signed John McDonald, Parishville 12 Jan. 16, 1850.
Methodist Church the new Methodist Episcopal Church in Ogdensburg will be dedicated Nov. 13, 1851 with the pastor James P. Jennings and Rev. Hiram Mattison of Oswego in attendance 11 Nov. 4, 1851.
militia duty men subject to military training may commute their duty by paying 75 cents before Aug. 1, 1851.  Thereafter, they must train or pay a $3 fine 8 Jul. 8, 1851
mill rescue Lynn Sheldon ae 4 yrs 5 mos., young son of George A. Sheldon of Hermon, fell into the waterworks of  J. J. Matteson's planing mill on June 28, 1858 and was narrowly rescued from death.(more details in Jul. 13, 1858 article of the St. Lawrence Republican) 8 Jul. 13, 1858
miller hurt G. W. Cooper, a millwright of Rensselaer Falls, was badly hurt Dec. 15, 1859 when he fell while inspecting the mill, and his head was hit several times by the buckets of the wheel 11 Dec. 20, 1859
minister ordained Rev. J. R. Hale of Massena was ordained by the St. Lawrence Co. Congregational Consociation.  He formerly lived in Canton, and is the pastor of two Congregationalist churches in Massena 11 Feb. 16, 1858
missing man information is wanted on Edward McDonnell, an Irishman, ae 20 in April 1854.  He left Ogdensburg in May 1852, going up the St. Lawrence and has not been heard from since.  Info can be sent to Margaret McDonnell, his widowed mother, or Thomas Murphy, both in Waddington 8 June 13, 1854
Mohawk mission "by Divine permission, the St. Regis Indian Mission Chapel will be dedicated to the service of Almighty God on Wed. Feb. 13, 1850 at 10:30 AM.  A general invitation to preachers and people is urgently given.  None need fear to come on account of smallpox." (signed) James P. Jennings 11 Feb. 5, 1850
more arrests in Ogdensburg John Carey was arrested for petit larceny and sent to the House of Corrections.  Mary Kirk was sentenced to 20 days in jail for being drunk and disorderly, but the sentence was suspended because of sickness in her family 7 May 27, 1858
more gold diggers according to the Potsdam Courier, the following people are going to be sailing for California on the steamer "Illinois": Lester Lindsley, Lucius Deming, Ziba Eastman and Mrs. Nathan Clark and child (all from Potsdam); plus Ami Follett, G. Wright and Philo Olmsted, all of Langdon Corners in Canton 11 Apr. 8, 1856
Mr. Fairchild's new mill E. N. Fairchild's new saw mill is in full operation in Ogdensburg.  It is of sturdy timber, designed by James Fulton of Waddington and framed by Lyman Sacket of Lisbon.  It employs 18-20 men and can easily turn out 20-25,000 board feet of lumber per day 11 Apr. 1, 1851
Mrs. Ann Gilligan convicted Mrs. Ann Gilligan, "the old offender" was convicted of selling liquor in Ogdensburg, and fined $56. 2 Feb. 6, 1856
Mrs. Gilligan again Mrs. Ann Gilligan was arrested in Ogdensburg for violating the excise law 7 Sep. 29, 1858
murder details this issue gives more complete details on the circumstances surrounding the alleged poisoning of Elijah Pease of West Potsdam. The issue of May 27, 1851 gives actual testimony from the trial in Kingston, Ont.  Pease and Mrs. Smith travelled under the name of Freeman and stopped at Mill Creek, Ont. at an inn, where he died of strychnine poisoning.  Mrs. Asenath Smith, his alleged wife and murderer, was put on trial and found not guilty.  Witnesses included Pease's daughter Mrs. Mary Barnum of Potsdam. 8 Apr. 29, 1851.
murder trial James E. Eldredge, 21, was tried for the murder of Mrs. Sarah Jane Gould in Dec. 1857.  He allegedly poisoned her with arsenic. He was born in Canton May 15, 1836.  On Dec. 29, 1857, he was sentenced to be hanged Feb. 11, 1858, but procedural questions delayed the sentence more than a year. 7 Dec. 4, 1857
murder trial begins the murder trial of James Bickford and Thomas Cook for the killing of Mr. Secor last June has begun in Malone. They were both convicted. Cook's death sentence was commuted to life in prison, while Bickford is to be hanged in Malone Sep. 22, 1854 11 Feb. 14, Jul. 25, Aug. 1 & Sep. 19, 1854.
murder trial set Mrs. Julia Tupper will be tried Oct. 26, 1859 for the poisoning of her husband Dolphus Tupper. She was tried and acquitted. 11 Oct. 18 & 25, 1859
murder victim Mrs. Sarah Jane Gould, nee Loughery, was murdered May 30,1857 by James Eldredge of Canton.  She was 24 years old and a widow.  He parents had died when she was young, and she got married to John Gould in 1850, but he died in 1852. She lived with her uncle, Danforth Britton, in Louisville Landing.  She had 3 younger siblings: Helen, Martha and Hiram 7 Dec. 4, 1858
murderer sentenced John Donovan was convicted for the murder of James Rowley of Potsdam on Feb. 17, 1852.  He killed him after he was allegedly insulted in a tavern. Sentenced to be hanged on Apr. 16, 1852 4 Feb. 26, 1852
musket tragedy Abner Cross of Depeyster had his left hand almost blown off Jul. 5, 1858 when a musket burst in his hands.  Three fingers were of no use at all and were amputated.  A piece of the barrel passed through his hat, narrowly missing his head. He lives near the Macomb town line 7 Jul. 5, 1858
name change the Columbian Democrat newspaper, published in Madrid Village, has changed its name to the Columbian Independent 8 Apr. 8, 1851
narrow escape Mr. Warren Houghton and a companion had a scare on Ford St. in Ogdensburg when the thills of their buggy gave way and the horse bolted 2 Sep. 16, 1855
naval exam Charles A. Humphrey of Ogdensburg has passed his examination in front of officers of the Naval Department 11 Sep. 28, 1858
new addresses the buildings on Ford St. in Ogdensburg are receiving numbers which will serve as their addresses from now on 11 Jul. 27, 1852
new citizens 60 people were naturalized at the court in Ogdensburg Oct. 27, 1859 11 Nov. 1, 1859
new crosswalk the new crosswalks being put in at the corner of Ford, Catherine and Water Sts. in Ogdensburg are a great improvement.  The stones are a foot thick 7 Sep. 9, 1858.
new job Dr. S. S. Nichols of Potsdam has been appointed Postmaster of Layacca, TX 11 Jul. 5, 1853.
new math teacher Charles T. Pooler has resigned as teacher of mathematics at St. Lawrence Academy in Potsdam and has been replaced by Mr. James Gardner 11 Aug. 10, 1852
new Post Office a new PO at Brasher Railway Station is to be called Stockholm Depot.  Jason W. Stearns will be the first postmaster.  (from the St. Lawrence Republican) 4 May 8, 1851
new press the St. Lawrence Republican is now being published using a steam-powered press 8 Feb. 25, 1851
new stage Baldwin and Son run a stage from Ogdensburg to the Forrest House Inn on the Governeur-Canton turnpike 7 Jan. 5, 1858
newspaper expansion? a notice says that next week, the first weekly edition of the Northern New Yorker paper will be issued 21 Jul. 3, 1850
no yoke a yoke of oxen belonging to Charles Arnold of Lisbon ran off the dock near the Oswegatchie bridge in Ogdensburg Jul. 27, 1857.  The wagon sunk but the oxen floated and were unyoked and led to shore.  The floating yoke held up the tongue of the wagon and it was recovered without much trouble in 11 feet of water 7 Jul. 27, 1857
North Lawrence there has been a Post Office established at North Lawrence 8 Apr. 1, 1851
North Lawrence tragedy seven small children were burned to death when the house of Amasa Tyler burned Mar. 28, 1854.  (No children were named in the article, but the 1850 census listed four children of his, and the cemetery lists two children of Jerusha Hill who died that day, plus a 3 year old of the Tylers who was not born until after the census. The Tylers had gone to visit neighbors and locked the door so the children had no means of escape.  Coroner's verdict was accidental death. See individual names in vital records section) 11 Apr. 6, 1854
Northern Freeman the first issue of Potsdam's  Northern Freeman appeared last week 2 Apr. 1, 1856
Northern Freeman changes hands Mr. Doty has retired from the Northern Freeman of Potsdam, and the paper is now in the capable hands of young Mr. Baker 7 Jan. 31, 1859
Norwood Post Office a Post Office has been established at Norwood ("North Potsdam" in original) with Rollin Ashley as Postmaster 11 Jan. 14, 1851
Norwood tavern burned the new tavern stand at Norwood, including sheds and barns, was completely destroyed by fire Mar. 18, 1851 4 Mar. 20, 1851
Notre Dame church the corner stone for the French Catholic church in Ogdensburg was laid Jul 10, 1859, with Bishop McCloskey of Albany officiating. It will be the largest church in this part of the state.  The society has purchased the entire Mansion Block on which it is being built. 7 Jul. 11, 1859
Oct. 16, 1858 arrests George Brooks was arrested Oct. 15, 1858 for stealing a woman's cape in Ogdensburg.  He had also been arrested Dec. 4, 1855 for burglary, for which he did more than 2 years in Dannemora prison 7 Oct. 16, 1858.
Ogdensburg building codes it is illegal, and has been for some time, to build a wooden structure on either side of parts of Ford, Isabela, Catherine or Water St. 11 Apr. 18, 1854
Ogdensburg business directory the three lads who put out Boys Daily Journal are putting together a business directory for the village of Ogdensburgh.  It should be ready by the new year. 11 Nov. 27, 1855
Ogdensburg cemeteries the new cemetery for the village of Ogdensburg is in a lovely spot and is well taken care of.  However, the original cemetery on Hamilton St. is a disgrace.  Not all of the graves have been moved to the new cemetery, so old and leaning tombstones abound, shrubbery is growing wild, the fence is dilapidated, and it has even been rented out as a cow and sheep pasture! 11 Feb 23, 1858
Ogdensburg Daily Times the first issue of this paper came out on Monday, Oct. 18, 1852 4 Oct. 21, 1852
Ogdensburg history a serialized history of Ogdensburg, written by George Guest, appears in this issue 7 Feb. 17, 1859
Ogdensburg police court Aug. '59 #1 Mary Golden was arrested on a charge of using indecent language to a neighbor.  She was held to good behavior.  Henry Trickey was acquitted of assault and battery on Jimmy McGinn. Mary Sayers and her sister Jane Mandigo, both of Lisbon, were tried for stealing goods from T. B James' store. Mary was convicted and fined $5, Jane was acquitted.  James Wells got 10 days for drunkenness.  Hamilton Stewart was arrested for indecent assault on Mary Thompson, which he says is an attempt to extort money from him.  Joseph LaRock got 10 days for drunkenness. John Harding got 40 days for whipping his wife. Alexander Holmes got fined $3 for assaulting a man who had come to his house searching for his daughter. 11 Aug. 30, 1859
Ogdensburg police court Aug. '59 #2 Thomas Ballantine was fined $3 for assault and battery.  Cornelius Woods was sent up for 10 days for drunkeness.  He was in the condition of a man who stuck his feet through the bars and tried to warm them by the light of the moon; ie he was asleep on the sidewalk.  William Graham, Joel Davis and James Evans, all Canadians, were sent up for 10 days for drunkenness.  John Hooligan got 30 days for beating up his wife.  Moody Hopkins got 40 days for assault and battery upon Emma Gordon, who was required to give bail because of disorderly conduct, as was Mary Wilson 11
Ogdensburg police log June 1, 1859 John Terret was given 30 days for stealing a cap. While in jail, he tried to dig his way through the wall of the cell. Mrs. Susan Craford, a widow woman who lives near the Mayne settlement in Oswegatchie, stole 3 dress patterns and was fined $10 7 June 1, 1859
Ogdensburg police log May 16, 1859 Susan Peck fined $5 for disorderly conduct.  Thomas Malley paid a fine for assault and battery.  Elizabeth Dupereau paid a fine for petit larceny.  James Mcintosh got 60 days in jail for breaking a window and hitting his wife (see "like husband like wife"), John Erringy  and John Terret got 10 days for being drunk. Michael Carberry was convicted of breaking a window in a storehouse and got $15 or 40 days.  Ann Simpson got 10 days for being drunk. Henry Masseau was fined $3 for fighting. George Murray and James Mills both got fined for being disorderly at a party (some names taken from St. Lawrence Republican of May 17, 1859) 7 May 16, 1859.
Ogdensburg police report Dec. 12, 1855 James Mills and George Elliott were convicted of assault and battery on Michael Shannon (George Elliott an "old offender" escaped while being sent to Canton jail for 30 days on Apr. 26, 1856.  See edition of Apr. 26, 1856) 2 Dec. 12, 1855
Ogdensburg police report Dec. 22, 1855 Thomas Caldwell was drunk in the street and fined $10 2 Dec. 22, 1855
Ogdensburg police report Dec. 5, 1855 George Brooks was arrested for burglary, but in Canton court in February, the jury could not reach a verdict (see also Feb. 22, 1856) 2 Dec. 5, 1855
Ogdensburg police report Jan. 7, 1856 John Busher was fined $10 for being noisy, quarrelsome and disorderly 2 Jan. 7, 1856
Ogdensburg police report Nov. 1, 1855 Benjamin Mosler was committed to jail for stealing three horses from John H. Boyd 2 Nov. 1, 1855
Ogdensburg police report Nov. 22, 1855 John McDougall was fined $10 for being drunk 2 Nov. 22, 1855
Ogdensburg police report Oct. 2, 1855 Peter Cuttaway was sent to the jail in Canton for 10 days because of an arrest for being drunk and disorderly 2 Oct. 3, 1855
Ogdensburg police report Oct. 4, 1855 Edward LaOorte and William McDougall both got 10 days in jail for being drunk and disorderly.  Martin Marshall was fined $3.50 for insulting and resisting a police officer 2 Oct. 5, 1855
Ogdensburg police report Oct. 9, 1855 Andrew LaRoche was sent to jail for up to 48 hours for assault and battery.  John Hardin was arrested for assaulting and abusing Mrs. Catherine Murray and for assaulting his wife.  He was sentenced to 4 mos. in jail 2 Oct. 9, 1855
Ogdensburg police report Sep. 25, 1855 Richard Little was arrested for being drunk and disorderly, fined $10.  William Greaves was arrested for assault and battery on a Potsdam man named Pierce at the Baldwin House in Ogdensburg and fined $20.  Thomas LaRock was arrested for being drunk and disorderly and got 10 days in the Canton jail. William McDougal was arrested for the same, and remained jailed. 2 Sep. 26, 1855
Ogdensburg Sentinel Mr. Foote and his Ogdensburg Sentinel are no more.  He had taken charge of the newspaper in 1848 7 Oct. 16, 1858.
ok the weather is o.k. (orful kold) 2 Jan. 11, 1856
old court house taken down the old court house, now called Judson Hall, is being dismantled, and its 50 year old oak beams are as good as the day they were put in. 7 Apr. 17, 1858
old timer Luke Denio has died in Dickinson at the age of 120 years. He was old enough to remember the victory of Gen. Wolfe at Quebec and was working as a mail carrier at the time 7 Feb. 10, 1859
oldest person in the county Assistant Marshall Stillman found a venerable negress living in Depeyster as he was taking the 1850 Federal census.  Susan Wadsworth was one of the slaves emancipated by the Connecticut law abolishing slavery and is listed as being 115 years old. (from the Ogdensburg Sentinel) 12 Oct. 23, 1850
other arrests in Ogdensburg John McLean was arrested for fighting and fined $5.  He was somehow involved with the 5 women arrested today for keeping a disorderly house.  He was arrested again Aug. 8, 1859 and sent up for 40 days. He lives on the road between Potsdam and Canton.  John Wilson was convicted of drunkenness and abusing his wife, and got sent up for 40 days. He is a poor, miserable, worthless vagabond and the county jail is the only place he can keep out of mischief 7 Aug. 2, 1859.
painters hurt five housepainters were hurt Apr. 1, 1859 in Ogdensburg when the scaffolding they were working on collapsed at the Judson Block in Ogdensburg.  James Finney died of his injuries.  The other four were Veeder, Devlin, Lizotte and Wing.  Veeder, Finney and Lizotte were thrown to the pavement from the third floor. 11 Apr. 5, 1859.
panther killed Charles Parmeter of Potsdam killed a panther in Belmont, Franklin Co. NY which was 9 feet total length and weighed 147 pounds 8 Jan. 7, 1851
pastor moves Rev. Day K. Lee, Universalist pastor, is leaving to take up another parish in Auburn, NY 11 Jul. 7, 1857
Pat Leonard hurt a laborer named Pat Leonard was seriously injured in Ogdensburg Aug. 5, 1859 when the Elizabeth St. sewer collapsed on him as he was working on it. (also in Aug. 9, 1859 issue of the St. Lawrence Republican) 7 Aug. 8, 1859
penalty for early withdrawal James Cunningham was arrested in Ogdensburg for abstracting $5 from the pocket of Thomas Eaton without his consent 7 Oct. 26, 1857
pension the US Congress had passed an act authorizing a pension of $96 a year for any man who served 60 days or fought in a battle during the War of 1812 7 Dec. 31, 1858
perjury charge Joe Denny of Ogdensburg was committed to wait trial for perjury. He had accused Joe Myers of stealing clothing 2 Jan. 11, 1856
petit theft James McGinn was convicted of stealing a pair of coarse boots from R. Vilas in Ogdensburg, and, unable to pay the $10 fine, was sent to the county jail for 30 days 2 Nov. 20, 1855
pick pockets Patrick Mahany and Patrick Coyle were sent to Canton to await trial on the charge that they stole $110 from the pantaloons of John Burke while he was at John Garity's house on Washington St. in Ogdensburg. 11 Mar. 27, 1855
pistol accident David Harris of Ogdensburg blew the top of his thumb off recently when a pistol mis-fired 7 May 6, 1859
Pitcairn panther Aaron Humes, ae 19,  was hunting in early January, 1858 and came upon a track he did not recognize. He was joined by Azra Phelps and the two found a panther on a limb of a tree. Humes wounded him and Phelps finished him off. He was brought to the house of Lyman Humes in Pitcairn and is on display 11 Jan. 26, 1858
Plain Dealer William B. Goodrich and S. P. Remington plan to start a new Republican newspaper in Canton Aug. 7, 1856, called The Plain Dealer 11 Jul. 29, 1856.
Plaindealer birthday with its next issue, the Plaindealer in Canton will begin its 4th year 7 Jul. 29, 1859
Plaindealer changes hands William B. Goodrich will no longer be associated with the Canton Plaindealer. Mr. Remington, a former partner, will assume control.  7 Sep. 24, 1858
planing accident Charles S. Collins, formerly of Potsdam, caught his hand in the planing mill in the shop of G. B Swan in Hailesboro, and it had to be amputated 11 Jul. 20, 1858
Platt Smith hurt Platt Smith, a shoemaker working for Royal Vilas in Ogdensburg, fell through a trap door a distance of about 10 feet and broke his arm, and bruised his back and shoulders severely. 8 Dec. 27, 1853
playing on the stairs a 4 year old son of James Wade of Ogdensburg broke both arms after falling from the bannister of the stairs in their home. 7 Aug. 17, 1858
police court Apr. '59 James Roy got 20 days for assault and battery on Apr. 19, 1859.  Brothers Anthony and Charles Santaus both got 10 days for being drunk. 11 Apr. 26, 1859.
police court June '54 Mrs. Elizabeth Valelly of Ogdensburg, a mother of 5 children, was found to have $75-100 worth of stolen goods. She was fined $20 and told to go and sin no more. John A. Shaver (of Canada) was sentenced to 60 days in jail for having stolen clothing from the 4 Williamson brothers (enterprising young mechanics from Maine) who board at the house of John A. Payne 11 June 20, 1854
police court Mar. '59 (1) John O'Brien and John Vaughn were both fined $5 Feb. 23, 1859 for disorderly conduct on Feb. 19, 1859.  They were having "a little bit of a shindy" in the saloon at Ford and Catherine Sts. in Ogdensburg.  Michael Shannon got 20 days for assault, and Martin Fox was fined $15 for excise violation 11 Mar. 1,1859.
police court Mar. '59 (2) Jack Mills got 40 days in jail Mar. 7, 1859 for being disorderly. He had just recently gotten out of jail. Emma Gordon, our old friend, was sentenced to $10 or 10 days for being disorderly, and asked the judge for 3 days to raise the money. "No go".   11 Mar. 8, 1859
police reciprocity the whereabouts of William Adam Herzogg were learned from a Watertown policeman who was in Ogdensburg to pick up a suspect wanted in Jefferson Co. Herzogg is wanted for forging his father's signature on a promisory note so that he could buy a horse 11 Mar. 22, 1859
police report for Jan. 4, 1859 Andrew Shay was arrested fror assault and battery in Ogdensburg and given $5 or 20 days in jail.  Hugh Berry had the same charges plus disorderly conduct and got $15 or 60 days in jail. Olive Dixon was fined $10 or 40 days for operating a disorderly house.  It seems rowdyism is an expensive luxury. 7 Jan. 4, 1859
police sweep the police in Ogdensburg made a descent upon the dens of infamy and arrested 14 women of bad repute.  Many young men had urgent business to attend to in Canada this morning.  When the women were being taken out of the jail on their way to Canton, both sides of the street were packed with men trying to get a look. 7 Aug. 10, 1857
political paper William Yeaton says that the American Party (i.e. the Know Nothings) will have their own newspaper in St. Lawrence Co. by March, 1855. 11 Dec. 26, 1854
Post Office robbed the Gouverneur Progressive Age reports that the Hermon Post Office was burglarized Feb. 20, 1856 and $15 was stolen. 8 Feb. 26, 1856
Postmaster arrested Mr. Mitchell, the Postmaster at West Fowler has been arrested for depredations upon the mail.  There is said to be no doubt about his guilt. 8 Dec. 10, 1850
Postmaster escapes Frederick J. Mills, who was being held in the jail at Whitesboro, escaped Mar. 25, 1850.  He was being held for robbing the mail at Hogansburg in Franklin Co. where he was the Postmaster 11 Apr. 2, 1850
Prescott boy drowns a 6 yr old son of Mr. Crosow(?) of Prescott drowned falling off Gilpin's Wharf in Ogdensburg May 29, 1855 2 May 30, 1855
pretender to the throne Rev. Eleazar Williams, the "Bourbon prince", is dreadfully sick at Hogansburg in Franklin Co. 8 Aug. 3, 1858
priest burned to death Fr. McCabe, the Roman Catholic priest in Malone was burned to death in his bed Nov. 24, 1857. The fire was discovered at about 11PM by Fr. Mackey of Ogdensburg who occupied an adjoining room.  It is supposed that the bedding was ignited by the lamp 8 Dec. 1, 1857
private reservoir the reservoir at the corner of Washington and Hamilton Sts. in Ogdensburg does not show on any village maps, and is owned by a private individual, but it showed its usefulness today when the store and dwelling of C. K. Stratton on Ford St. were burning 7 Apr. 30, 1858
Progressive Age  this new Gouverneur paper comes out on Thursdays and is published by Rev. G. Dickson Greenleaf on the press formerly used by the St. Lawrence Free Press 11 June 5, 1855
Progressive Age moves to Potsdam the editors of the Progressive Age have concluded that Gouverneur cannot support a paper, and will move to Potsdam, which will give them 2 newspapers 2 Mar. 3, 1856
prohibition law violations Joseph Johnson, owner of the Ogdensburg and Prescott House, was arrested, as was a man named Backus from DeKalb.  Johnson decided to leave the country rather than pay the fine 8 Jan. 15, 1856.
quick thinking R. P. Mayne of Russell knocked a lamp off a table Nov. 11, 1857 and the burning fluid caught his wife's clothes on fire.  He quickly grabbed her clothing at the neck and pulled it all off with one tug. His wife was unhurt, but his hands were badly burned 7 Nov. 16, 1857
quiet man John Cooke of the Town of Oswegatchie was brought before Justice White in Ogdensburg on a charge of disturbing a religious meeting at Lee Settlement in the Town of Oswegatchie.  The jury returned a verdict of not guilty, and Mr. Cooke is a young man of inoffensive disposition who would not intentionally disturb anybody 7 Jan. 14, 1858
quite an improvement the Daily Journal reports that in the last four years it has come from almost nothing to having four steam presses 7 Feb. 1, 1858
Racket Hotel burns the Racket Hotel in Colton, owned by T. G. Bachelle, was completely destroyed by fire, along with all the outbuildings 8 Nov. 22, 1853
railroad death a man named McDonald was killed on the railroad near Brasher on Nov. 8, 1850. He fell between two cars and was run over 12 Nov. 13, 1850
railroad junction the tracks being laid between Potsdam and Norwood in order to intercept the Ogdensburg Railroad are almost complete and should be ready for the cars in about 3 weeks. 8 Oct. 3, 1854.
railroad thieves Ichabod Clark, Solomon van Sleet, Jonathan Larabee and James Carney were all arrested in Ogdensburg for having stolen goods from freight cars.  They were all brakemen on the railroad. Clark and Larabee were fined $100 and got 6 mos. in jail.  Carney was fined $20 and got 3 months, while van Sleet got $10 and 3 months. 11 May 30, 1854
recuperating nicely James Daily, the young man who was sent to the Lunatic Asylum in Utica last spring, writes to his wife that he is improving rapidly, and should be allowed to return home in about 3 months. 7 Oct. 21, 1857
Red Mills mill W. L. van Valkenberg has refurbished the Red Mills in Lisbon, or "Galoup Mills" as they are recently called 11 Feb. 23, 1858
religious paper Joseph A. Livingston has begun the publication of a religious paper called The Evangelical Herald, published in Potsdam 11 Sep. 30, 1856
repeat offender Joe Noland was put away again for being drunk, disorderly and fighting.  He is a notoriously hard case.  (see also Joel Nowlan) (see also St. Lawrence Republican Dec. 28, 1858) 7 Dec. 22, 1858
Republican policy the St. Lawrence Republican reiterates its policy concerning death notices: the actual notice is printed for free, but any obituary costs 50 cents per square 11 Mar. 4, 1851
Rev. Moore says goodbye Rev. J. W. Moore, pastor of Grace Church in Canton, has transferred to Castleton on Staten Island. 7 May 6, 1859
Rev. Savage moves on Rev. John Savage of the Presbyterian church in Ogdensburg is moving to Wisconsin to take over Carroll College near Milwaukee 11 Oct. 1, 1850
Revolutionary soldier Thomas Scott, ae 96 of Stockholm, attended the 4th of July celebrations at Bicknellville in 1854. (note: he is listed as being 95 in his death notice 8 months later, q.v.) 8 Jul. 11, 1854
Richard Little injured Richard Little fell while descending the stairs leading to the Lyceum Hall in Ogdensburg Jan. 5, 1854, mangling his face considerably. 8 Jan. 10, 1854
robbery in Albany Elias Packard of St. Lawrence Co. was robbed of $110 while staying at Armstrong's boarding house in Albany 11 Dec. 27, 1853.
rolling thunder a petition has been circulated to abate the incessant "artificial thunder" emanating from the bowling alley in the basement of Knickerbocker Hall on Water St. in Ogdensburg 11 June 14, 1853
Rossie furnace destroyed the lead smelting furnace in Rossie was destroyed by fire Mar. 22, 1858. 7 Mar. 24, 1858
Rossie lead  a rich vein of lead was discovered in Rossie 11 Oct. 12, 1852
rowdy youth the boys of Ogdensburg have become quite unruly lately. Some boys were shooting a pistol loaded with shot near the Presbyterian Church Mar. 24, 1859 and hit a man in the boot. On Mar. 27, several of them were forcibly ejected from the juvenile singing department of the public school where they had gone to cause a disturbance.  A few days before that a crowd of boys threw mud and clubs at an old man with a drove of cattle and hit him in the face so that he bled profusely.  11 Mar. 29, 1859
runaway boy Joseph Jacquith ran away from home in Sep. 1850 (sic).  His father Abel Jacquith forbids anyone from dealing with him 11 Oct. 14, 1851
runaway stage Daniel Landon lost control of the stage he was driving in North Lawrence Mar. 22, 1854, and the stage hit a board fence at full speed.  O.T. Raymond of Nicholville had his face badly cut.  William Hall of Lawrenceville dislocated his shoulder and bruised his face.  Miss Annett Ferris, daughter of L. P. Ferris of Lawrenceville fractured her skull, and her life is dispaired of. (story is repeated in Mar. 28, 1854 issue of St. Lawrence Republican) 8 Mar. 28, 1854
runaways runaways occur in Ogdensburg as often as 3 times a week.  The other day, a horse come up Isabela St. chased by a dog and a meat wagon. Near Ford St., the wagon turned off, but the dog and the horse continued. 8 Aug. 29, 1854
S.F. Judd gets a gift Col. S. F. Judd was presented a pair of Colt pistols by the State of New York.  They are 6-shooters. 8 Aug. 19, 1859
Sackrider, Christian Mr. Christian Sackrider is the new Postmaster at Norfolk 8 May 20, 1851
Samuel Clark's brother information is wanted on Johnny Clark who sailed from Belfort (Belfast?) June 12, 1854 and landed in Quebec City about Jul. 20, 1854.  Information can be sent to his brother Samuel Clark in Ogdensburg 8 Oct. 3, 1854
saved from the cold William Brannigan was arraigned for being drunk and lying crosswise in the street. He could not pay the $10 fine so was sent to jail for 20 days. He said he was glad to be arrested since he would have frozen to death before reaching his home 5 miles from Ogdensburg. 2 Mar. 10, 1856
Sawyer, Wallace a young Ogdensburg boy named Wallace Sawyer was throwing firewood from the sidewalk into a cellar when he fell while carrying a piece.  Two of his fingers were so badly jammed that one had to be cut off 16 Feb. 4, 1854
Sayles, Steward B. Ira Sayles of Potsdam gives notice that his son Steward B. Sayles ae 17, has left his house without permission and forbids anyone from harboring him.(Steward was still living in Potsdam in 1870) 12 Mar. 27, 1850
scaffolding collapses Thomas Barlow, John Kenyon and William H. Allman were hurt when scaffolding collapsed as they were painting a building in Ogdensburg. (note this story corrects names given in the Apr. 5, 1859 edition) 11 May 3, 1859.
seduction John Gregor was arraigned for seduction June 10, 1856 under the Act of 1848. 2 June 12, 1856
sentenced to death Ira Sherwin, the man who murdered Justin Bell of Brasher, was given the death penalty in July, 1852, but it was commuted to life in prison in September, 1852. 11 Jul. 20 & 27 & Sep. 28, 1852
Sept. 21 arrests in Ogdensburg John Gallagher was sentenced to a $10 fine or 30 days in jail for assault and battery.  William McCormack was sent up for 30 days for assault, battery, drunkeness etc. 7 Sep. 21, 1858
Sept. 28 arrests in Ogdensburg Pat Hartigan got drunk and attacked Alfred Hartney and got a $10 fine.  Hugh Lundy was arrested for petit larceny 7 Sep. 28, 1858
shipwreck the steamer Ocean Wave sank 30 miles from Kingston, Ont and about 2 and a half miles from the Canadian shore on Apr. 30, 1853. There was great loss of life, and much of her crew were from Ogdensburg. 11 May 3, 1853
shoplifter Mrs. Asenath Smith of Hermon, acquitted in 1851 of the poisoning death of Elijah Pease in Ontario, was brought before Justice Bacon in Ogdensburg during the first week of October, 1854 accused of shoplifting.  She had filled a trunk full of shoes and other items, and Deputy Sheriff Houghton caught up with the stage at Heuvelton.  She was fined $50 and released 11 Oct. 10, 1854
singing chicken thief R. Ashwood was jailed in Ogdensburg for stealing chickens and after being caged, treated the crowd to a song. 2 Feb. 8, 1856
skeletons unearthed workmen at the Hasbrouck premises in Ogdensburg uncovered a couple of human skeletons Apr. 9, 1859. One was a male, one female and appear to be Europeans 7 Apr. 9, 1859.
slight confusion since the Daily Journal labeled its edition yesterday as Dec. 31, 1858, and whereas today is actually Dec. 31, 1858, we had no choice but to label today's edition as Dec. 30, 1858, otherwise there would only be 364 days in a year 7 Dec. 31(?), 1858
some cracker! John Barber uses a 3 hp steam engine to help make crackers in his Ogdensburg bakery.  The machine rolls, cuts and stamps them. 11 Apr. 22, 1856
St. Lawrence American Mr. Yeaton says this new paper will be issued in March. The first number was printed Mar. 1, 1855, and it is an organ of the American Party (i.e. Know Nothings) 11 Feb. 20 & Mar. 6, 1855
St. Lawrence Democrat another new paper, the St. Lawrence Democrat, made its appearance today. 7 Nov. 25, 1858.
St. Lawrence Democrat (2) Simpson and Tracy of Canton announce they will be putting out a paper called The Democrat very soon. The first issue was received in Ogdensburg Feb. 13, 1855 11 Feb. 6 & 13, 1855
St. Lawrence Hotel Mr. G. N. Seymour plans an enlargement of the St. Lawrence Hotel in Ogdensburg.  The new wing will be on State St. and will be 4 storeys high and made of brick 11 Mar. 18, 1851
St. Lawrence Republican the St. Lawrence Republican is by far the biggest newspaper in the north country with an average daily circulation of 3500, and is printed on Tuesdays 7 Dec. 11, 1858
St. Lawrence University the corner stone laying ceremony for St. Lawrence University in Canton has been postponed until June 18, 1856. 2 June 2, 1856
St. Regis flood the St. Lawrence River flooded in the neighborhood of St. Regis, Que. on Jan. 24, 1854, due to ice dams in the river. Many Mohawk homes were destroyed. 8 Jan. 31, 1854
Steam tug explodes! the steam tug Hercules, which was towing the disabeld steramer New Era up river near the Rapide du Plate in the St. Lawrence river, exploded Oct. 9, 1858.  Four people were killed instantly.  The Hercules then drifted back downriver and sank with only her upper works above water. 11 Oct. 12, 1858.
street improvement State St. in Ogdensburg between Ford and Green Sts. was being macadamized in Sept. 1855 2 Sep. 7, 1855
support your local paper! the editor pleas for support of the apparently ailing Northern New Yorker of Gouverneur 21 Aug. 28, 1850
swimming bear the ferryman at Waddington noticed an animal in the river heading toward him Sep 16, 1854, and somewhat to his concern, discovered it to be a bear, about 300 pounds.  He quickly headed for Ogden's Island and the bear followed. Lysander Daniels, Alexander Martin and James Smith killed the beast with oars and a small boat mast 11 Sep. 19, 1854
teachers graduate Hubbard H. Barrett of Lawrence and Carlos Colton of Pierrepont have both graduated from the State Normal School 11 Jul. 14, 1857
temperance law the Maine Law, prohibiting liquor sales, comes into effect fully on Jul. 4, 1855 11 Jul. 3, 1855
Thanksgiving  x  26 26 states have declared tomorrow, Nov. 26, 1857 to be Thanksgiving 7 Nov. 25, 1857
Thanksgiving Day 1850  the Governor has declared Thurs. Dec. 12, 1850 to be Thanksgiving Day in NYS 12 Nov. 6, 1850
Thanksgiving Day 1854 the Governor has declared Nov. 30, 1854 to be Thanksgiving Day in NYS 17 Nov. 22, 1854
the "Maine Law" passed the NYS Senate passed the "Maine Law" prohibiting sales of liquor in NYS, to take effect in Dec., 1854 8 Mar. 14, 1854
the old court house the second court house for St. Lawrence Co. (the original being the old stone barracks) is being destroyed. It continued to be the court house until the new one in Canton was first used, on Jan. 8, 1830. By 1847 or 1848, the old court house had been fitted up as a dwelling house, with the upper floor left as a meeting hall known as "Judson Hall" after the owner. The site will be used to erect a new Customs House, Post Office and Federal Court House.  The old court house was struck by a 24 lb cannon ball during the War of 1812 and the grand jury had just left the room which was struck. 8 Mar. 16, 1858.
The Plain Dealer Mr. Alvan and John F. Ames are to publish a newspaper in Canton beginning about May 1, 1854, to be called The Plain Dealer 8 Apr. 25, 1854
thief caught (1) Elizabeth Varney was arrested for stealing items from the American Hotel in Ogdensburg Mar. 16, 1855.  She stole a pair of ear rings, a brooch, bracelets, and $7 in notes.  She pawned one item for ferry passage.  She was fined $10. 2 Mar. 18, 1856
thief caught (2) Thomas Comon, who broke into Hugh Curry's shoe shop in Ogdensburg recently, admitted that he is also the person who broke into Wooley's grocery the night before. 7 Oct. 22, 1857
thief with 2 right hands Henry Martin of Lisbon stole a pair of leather gloves from Atcheson's store in Ogdensburg Dec. 24, 1857, but did not notice they were both right-hand gloves.  When he came in the next day wanting to exchange one, he was found out, arrested and fined $10.  He is from a respectable family. 7 Dec. 29, 1857.
thin ice Erastus Fell of Augusta, Ont. fell through the ice with a cutter full of coal, but survived. 7 Mar. 18, 1858
three drown a boy, George W. Sartwell, and two girls (one a 14 year old sister of George, the other a 14 year old daughter of John McNamara) drowned in the Raquette River in Norfolk when their boat went over the dam Jul. 7, 1857.  George was the son of Solomon Sartwell. 7 Jul. 11, 1857
threshing Robert Donald of Hammond threshed 105 bushels of wheat in 2 hrs 2 minutes on Nov. 3, 1859.  He was working for W. Leazenby of Hammond 11 Dec. 6, 1859
time capsule copies of the Courier and Journal and the Northern Freeman were placed in the cornerstone of the new Methodist Church in Potsdam May 17, 1859. 11 May 24, 1859.
toddler hurt a two year old daughter of Mr. Donovan in Potsdam had her hand run over by the railroad and had to have it amputated just below the elbow on Aug. 24, 1857 7 Aug. 28, 1857
toll gate burns the first toll gate on the Potsdam-Norwood road burned down completely 7 May 9, 1859
trained team Martin Bristol of Depeyster brought a team of horses to town and put on a marvelous show of how well trained they were. 7 Apr. 2, 1858
triplets Mrs. T. J. Brayton of Edwards gave birth to triplets (a boy and two girls) June 8, 1859. 7 June 17, 1859
truly a local paper paper the St. Lawrence Republican of this date was printed on paper made right in Ogdensburg at the mill of Patrick V. Lankton 11 June 29, 1854
two drown, three escape Roswell Davis, 13, John Foster, 16, and Andrew Foster, 13, were able to save themselves May 9, 1853 as their boat went over the dam in Gouverneur.  However, John and Orace Davis, ages 9 and 6, drowned.  The Foster boys were step-sons of Mr. Coon. 11 May 10, 1853
two fined for excise Fred Fuller and Bernard Shannon, both of Madrid, were fined for excise law violations. 7 Dec. 10, 1858
two inns burn the tavern of Lewis Northrup, 4 miles from Ogdensburg on the Canton Turnpike burned down, as did the inn at Norwood owned by Benjamin Baldwin 11 Mar. 25, 1851
two men escape death Aaron Nightingale and Daniel Hutchins, both of Massena, narrowly escaped death Jan. 29, 1856.  They were drawing logs to the mill, and as they went down the hill near the springs, the yoke gave way, and one span of horses was thrown down the bank.  The log rolled over Mr. Nightingale, but because of the deep snow, he only suffered a broken wrist 8 Feb. 5, 1856.
two more escapees Talbot, the bookkeeper for the late firm of Watrous and Lawrence, and Lane, one of the mail robbers, escaped from Canton Jail Aug. 14, 1855.  (Lane was re-captured in Kingston, Ont. Aug. 22, 1855, and Talbot was sentenced to 6 mos in jail Nov. 25, 1855) 2 Aug. 16, 1855
typhoid epidemic an epidemic of typhoid has broken out in Heuvelton. 11 Feb. 28, 1854
unexpected dip David Simpson and James Hunt fell through the ice while crossing the St. Lawrence near Ogdensburg Jan. 6, 1851, but both survived 11 Jan. 7, 1851
unidentified corpse James R. Aiken of Lisbon was crossing the St. Lawrence near O'Neill's Apr. 11, 1858 when his boat passed over the corpse of a woman wearing a shawl.  No woman of that description was known to be missing. 7 Apr. 15, 1858
US District Court Sep. 1855 most of the cases were smuggling, and the US government lost every single case.  Samuel Lane was given 5 years for mail theft.  His partner Samuel Hodge will get a new trial because the jury could not agree. 11 Sep. 25, 1855
Veitch bed and board Bridget Veitch, having left my bed and board….etc. signed James Veitch 7 Mar. 27, 1858
Waddington Town the Town of Madrid is to be split into two equal sized towns along the 5 mile line.  The northern town will be called Waddington, while the remaining part will retain the name Madrid 11 Nov. 29, 1859
waiting for something to "turn up" B. H. Vary delivered to the Daily Journal office in Ogdensburg a rutabaga grown by Eli P. Townsley of DeKalb which weighed 15 lbs. 7 Oct. 29, 1857.
warning to boys the water is still too cold too be swimming and many boys catch severe colds as a result of being in the water.  Remember: "those who bathe in May will soon be laid in clay; those who bathe in June will sing a merry tune" 11 May 17, 1859
we cannot bear it! two large black bears were killed inside the village of Ogdensburg on the morning of Dec. 17, 1858 7 Dec. 17, 1858.
well written Joseph H. Barnes, an 11 year old student at the Institution for the Deaf and Dumb, wrote a fine letter to the editors of the St. Lawrence Republican 11 Mar. 13, 1855.
West Point cadet the Courier of Potsdam states that W. A. Elderkin, son of N. S. Elderkin, has received an appointment as a cadet at West Point. 2 May 20, 1856
West Potsdam lightning a Mrs. Cooper in West Potsdam was severely injured Jul. 3, 1859 when lightning struck her home 7 Jul. 5, 1859.
wet wheat a scow loaded with 600 bushels of wheat, bound for one of the mills in Ogdensburg, was upset between the lighthouse and the Marine Railway.  The wheat went to the bottom, but the scow floated. 7 Sep. 9, 1858.
wicked youth George Elliott was arrested in Ogdensburg for assaulting his mother, Mrs. Gilligan.  He is a wicked youth and is arrested often. 7 June 24, 1857
wife beating Patrick Murray of Ogdensburg got 30 days in jail for wife beating Aug. 17, 1859 11 Aug. 23, 1859
Wilcox, John R. Abraham Wilcox of Potsdam warns others not to harbor his son John R. Wilcox, who has left his employ. 12 Jul. 17, 1850
Willards wiped out the house, barns, cheese house and livestock of T. H. Willard of Fowler were all destroyed by fire June 3, 1859 7 June 9, 1859
Young America the first issue of this new Canton newspaper was received at the Daily Journal offices Oct. 8, 1858.  It is published by C. W. Ames of Canton and is independent in politics 7 Oct. 8, 1858
Young America expands the editor of Canton's Young America says that by the middle of March, 1859, the paper will expand to the size of the old St. Lawrence Democrat 7 Feb. 18, 1859
young editors the Morning Glory and Young America, papers published by lads, are doing better and better each week. 11 June 6, 1854
young hero C. F. Allen, son of E. B. Allen of Ogdensburg, saved the life of another boy by pulling him from the water after he had fallen out of a boat they were in. 2 Sep. 10, 1855
young ladies hurt Miss Cornelia Vilas and Miss Abigail Willard were thrown from a buggy while on their way back from the new cemetery in Ogdensburg. The buggy fell on Miss Vilas and she now lies in a very bad state 16 June 17, 1854
youth arrested Dick McCarty, who was arrested a while ago for stealing copper, was arrested for breaking into Humphrey's Drug Store in Ogdensburg Jul. 10, 1859.  He will be sent to the House of Corrections, as he is a very bad boy. 7 Jul. 11, 1859
youthful prisoner the jail in Canton has 31 prisoners, including Peter Rexford, a boy from Rossie awaiting trial for burglary.  On Aug. 13, 1859, he tried to hang himself in the jail but was cut down. (Peter, 1844-1912, and his wife are buried in Rossie) 7 Aug. 19, 1859