PATCHOGUE
ADVANCE
CORAM, MIDDLE
ISLAND, YAPHANK
1886 - 1909
YAPHANK
May 29, 1886 W.F. Huntoon is building a
hennery, 24x34. C.E. King, the ex-miller of the upper mills, is engaged
in the carpenter business, at Water Mills
July 3, 1886 Mr. Thyboldt, the new pastor
of the Presbyterian church, Yaphank, is said to be a radical Republican.
August 14, 1886 Samuel F. Norton, one of
Yaphank’s prominent men, aster an illness of two months passed quietly
away on Monday morning last.
To Messrs. Train and Harned. Seeing your
challenge in the Advance to sailed the Rose Silsbe with the Shaffer, 10
miles to windward and back, for $500 a side, I would say for the benefit
of both parties that the race should come off at Mascot Dock, or near
by, and both boats to start from the side of the stake boat and throw up
for choice of sides. We do not propose for one side to make the race,
and we said it for the accommodation of them. We got enough of that kind
of business last summer. Mr. Train says we will said for a purse, net a
bet. We are the party to say that, not him, as we got skinned out of
$100 last summer on the gambling net, and we do not propose to be
skinned the second time after winning the money. As for naming the day,
that belongs to both parties to do; and also Mr. Train wishes to name
the place where to sail. We should like to know whether it is going to
be in the Red Sea or Coram Pond, as it will be a little trouble for us
to transport our fish boat from one place to the other. We should like
to have a friendly race and a fair one. Our conditions are 10 miles to
windward and back; measure the ground before that start; one minute and
half water line to foot measurement; both boats to start from stake boat
and carry one sail, and no other race will we sail. GEORGE JONES, J.B.
“To the Public”
September 18, 1886 Roswell Davis has a new
telephone, connecting his store and house. Miss Nancy Howell, who
taught in our district school for the unexpired term of Miss Ross last
year, has been re-engaged by the trustees for the ensuing year. Charlie
E. Howell, that good natured fellow, takes much pride in his new horse –
a roadster. Rev. Paul Thyholdt took French leave of us, and now our
church is without a settled pastor.
October 2, 1886 He was a brave young man,
and has a family to defend, and as for allowing any burglars to come
around his house – no, indeed; it would not be healthy for them.
Thousands of quails were sign about here last week. The regular annual
meeting of School District No. 18 was held in the school house, August
31, 1886, at 7:30 P.M. Charlie E. Howell has built an addition to the
back end of his barn. Dr. William A Baker, eldest son of the late Dr.
I.J. Baker, has left Yaphank “for good,” that is, he probably will not
make our village his home.
Coram Last week we made mention of the death
of Lester H. Davis on Tuesday, October 26, after a short illness. In
Memoriam: Mrs. Daniel Overton, known as “Aunt Tabby,” died at her
residence last Tuesday morning, aged 83 years. She was born in Middle
Island in 1803. She moved to Patchogue 65 year ago.
Yaphank
November 22, 1886
Clarence
A Baker has two new cows, making four in all, “Professor” Martin gave an
exhibition of his so called “wonder of wonders” at the school house last
Thursday and Friday evenings. Tears were running down poor C.E.
Howell’s cheeks as he stood on the steps of his house bidding farewell
to his faithful old gray horse, as he was being led away by Albert
Whitbeck, the oyster and fisherman, to be seen, no, nevermore. E.
Wickham Mills, who was turned out of his mail car for being so
“offensive a partisan,” by Vilas, has secured a position as ticket agent
at Flatbush, Brooklyn. The Yaphank Library has just received 53 of the
choicest books.
December
11, 1886
Capt.
Warren, son-in-law of our respected townsman, Sereno B. Overton,
accompanied by his charming wife, have gone to Southampton on a visit.
Roswell Davis, our merchant, has his house painted in dark cram, trimmed
with red and green blinds. Last Monday, while Mr. And Mrs. Edmund F
Hawkins were cosily sitting in their father’s {Mr. R.F. Hawkins} house,
talking lovingly, as all newly wedded pairs do, of the good times they
were having during their bridal trip to Albany, Springfield, Boston,
Althol and back when all of sudden, a loud bang, shrilling whistle,
beating of the drums, brass baud, forgetting himself, rushed to the
Oalithumpian Band was setting forth, they knew not but that Wiggin’s,
prophecy might be fulfilled. It may not be out of place, if we may be
permitted to give a little incident, to show that true love in many
instances has it’s romance new this village.
December
18, 1886
In a
former issue we spoke of “poor C.E. Howell, who shed bitter tears over
the departure of the dear, good, faithful, old gray horse.” We called
Istely at the popular store of R.F. Hawkins & Son, and were shown their
line of Christmas goods, and were struck with surprise at the beautiful
things laid before us on the counter. The thanks of the people of this
village are due to Charles H. Marvin for his generous volunteering to
clear the paths for them to wend their way to prayer meeting a week ago
Friday. An Appeal to Parents – We have just learned that there would be
no Christmas tree at our church this year.
Middle Island Willett S. Swezey has left J.H.
Bandall’s, where he has been employed as clerk for several years, and
gone to the city. Fred P Swezey has resigned his position as teacher
and gone to Florida to recuperate among the orange groves. Miss Jennie
Overton is home on a vacation from Oswego Normal School. The ware
weather has broken this ice on Artist Lake, where the young people have
enjoyed many evening’s fine skating. Messrs. Swezey, Randall & Dayton
shipped a care load of turnips and cabbage last week, also J.H. Randall
a car of hay – all for the New York market. Capt. Ulysses Ritch, of the
brig Stella, has arrived at the port of New York, from South America,
with 900 tons coffee, where he is now busy unloading. The Ladies Home
and Foreign Missionary Society continues to flourish.
Yaphank
March 5, 1887
Boss Davis has nearly completed Samuel Randall’s house, which he has
been raising up another story. Roswell Davis, our enterprising
merchant, is soon to have a new building constructed for the storage of
grain and fertilizer. Our village blacksmith’s horse got cast the other
day in the mill stream, but owing to the untiring and vigorous efforts
of N.B. Overton and Eugene Homan, two of our enterprising young men, he
was soon extricated from his perilous position, and at last accounts was
doing well. What is the matter with our young men this winter, have
they all joined the church or are they short of funds, or what is the
trouble?
April
9, 1887
Duffee
Phillips – On Sunday evening April 3, at 8 P.M., a select company of
friends and relatives gathered in the parlors of Mr. Philetus Phillips
to witness the marriage of their daughter Inez D., to Mr. Robert S.
Duffee.
June 4, 1887 We have at hand a very find
composition in music by S.H. Ritch, of Port Jefferson, entitled “The O d
Double Door,” lately published by B. W. Hitchcock, New York. E.F.
Hawkins has started a free delivery wagon in connection with his store.
Our school building is sadly in need of repairs inside. No draped flags,
no funeral marches, no softened tones of martial airs, nor the solemn
tramp of mourning soldiers with garlands of flowers to decorate their
fellow comrades’ graves, broke the quietness of our little village on
Decoration Day, but in the hearts of many, a recognition of sentiment
and thought which the day commemorated, was generally felt.
Middle Island Mr. And Mrs. Nelson Monsell
celebrated their golden wedding not long a go with their children, grand
children and a few invited guests, where all enjoyed themselves very
much, and hoped they might live to enjoy many more years. Mr. And Mrs.
Samsen, former residents of this place, sailed for Africa last December,
and when forty days out Mr. Samsen died and was buried at sea. Capt.
Ulysses Ritch, of the brig Stella, arrived at the port of New York with
seven hundred and fifty tone of sugar.
Yaphank
July 2, 1887
Three of
our largest farms are in the real estate agent’s hand. Rev. Samuel
Sims, our new pastor, attended the meeting of the Presbytery, at Sag
Harbor, and delivered the charge to the people at the ordination of the
Rev. C E. Wilson, as pastor of the Presbyterian church in that place.
Where shall we go on the Fourth to have a good time?
Middle Island John Risley, jr., is home from
business college, where he has graduated, and is ready for any
commercial business. A meeting was held in the Presbyterian Church last
week and decided to paint and decorate the church inside, put in hosters
and otherwise improve. Tuttle Corwin, after a short illness, died at
the house of Mr. Joseph H. Randall last Sunday morning.
Yaphank
August 27, 1887 The Presbyterian Sunday school had their annual
beach party the 17th, going to Smith’s Point beach in the
sloop Lulu, Capt. E Swezey, from Brookhaven. The apple crop in the
section promises to be very heavy. The Coram watermelon is now about
ripe.
September 10, 1887 The almshouse people are
cutting up their large fields of corn. Two hundred and twelve graves
represent the number of persons buried in the almshouse cemetery to
date. Rev. Mr. Simms, pastor of the Presbyterian Church, returned from
a two months trip in Europe on Tuesday morning.
September 17, 1887 Daniel Phillips is
carting about 100 cords of oak wood to the railroad depot for B.T.
McCreary. New desks are to be procured for our school house. Capt.
Higgins has got one of those new kerosene concerns, which do away with
wood or coal, by putting in a stove and burning the oil.
Middle Island The young people from this
place went on their annual beach party last week. Where they enjoyed a
bountiful dinner and viewed the great Atlantic and then returned.
Several weeks ago The Advance gave particulars of an effort being made
to open a new road from Miller’s place to Mr. Sinai and Port Jefferson,
avoiding steep hills and being much more away of travel than the present
one.
Yaphank
November 5, 1887 Hiram Overton, one of our oldest citizens, died at
his residence in West Yaphank last week, at the advanced age of 84
years. The older mills at West Yaphank and Middle Island are grinding
and making large quantities of cider. This week the fall season for
game shooting opens, and from appearances, its opportunities will be
largely improved in this vicinity.
Middle Island A certificate of incorporation
of the Middle Island Sportmen’s Club was filed in the County Clerk’s
office of Kings county, on Oct. 22nd with the following
incorporators: Harry H. Adams, (county treasurer) William Keegan, Jr.,
R.O. Sherwood, Martin E. Finnegan, James Shevlin, Daniel Ryan.
Thanksgiving passed as usual, services being held in the Presbyterian
church in the morning at 10:30 o’clock. Where we were reminded that we
should be thankful for the many blessings of the past year. The Women’s
Home and Foreign Missionary Society held a praise meeting in the church
Saturday afternoon. The Presbyterian church, which has been painted and
otherwise improved, looks very nice and the heater works very good,
doing away with the unsightly stovepipes and smoke. The Middle Island
Gun Club has bought the places formerly owned by George Chapped, and
improved it by repairing and painting the house and clearing more land.
Yaphank
December 3, 1887
Our
school district seems to have a hard time securing a collector. Hiram
Edwards, of Ridgeville Hamlet, sold the most of his movable and farming
effects at auction last Saturday. S.H. Ritch and family, of Port
Jefferson, have been making a visit to relatives here. Mrs. Lydia
Turner, of Middle Island, celebrated her 95th birthday by
giving a birthday party.
December 17, 1887 The cold frosty air of a
December morning sharpened the appetite and wrankled the nerves of a
village cur as he lay shivering in his kennel awaiting his breakfast.
Mordecai Homan has accepted the appointment for school collector, and
will collect the tax soon. Owing to the empty coal bins of our dealers,
some have been carting it from Patchogue, 10 miles distant. The cord
wood trade is very active, $3 per cord being asked by farmers.
Middle Island Alonso Chappell died at his
house at Artist Lake on Sunday night and was buried in the Presbyterian
cemetery.
Yaphank
December 31, 1887 Rosy cheeked little girls with toboggan caps;
noisy boys, and in their Sunday clothes, and people of mature growth,
might have been seen Monday night, winding their way through the village
streets towards the Presbyterian church, to participate in the pleasure
of seeing and joining in the Christmas celebration by the Sunday school.
February 17, 1888 Frank McCreary, of Long
Island City, is on a short visit home. Capt. Charles H. Brewster, a
former resident here for many years, died in Brooklyn, on Feb. 11. S.C.
Hallock, the well-known builder and inventor has just completed for
Herman Sommers, of Bartlett’s, a novel propelling chair for the use of
his crippled boys. It is reported that the new land purchased by the
County, will be the site of a new Children’s Home.
March
3, 1888
L.T.
Whitbeck, we hear, intends to carry on a first class carriage and house
painting business in this place. Charlie Howell and Lewis Gordon are
trying their luck buying horses in the city. Our village is
anticipating a small boom in real estate this season.
March 10, 1888 L.T. Whitbeck has painted a
handsome new sign, which is now displayed from the front of his shop –
so that he runs may read: “L.T. Whitbeck, Painter”. The Coram boys
completely annihilated and mopped up the ground with the Middle Island
boys at their return game of base ball on Saturday. Our stage driver,
Charley Howell, has now three fine horses, and intends to run things in
god style, for the spring traffic. Mr. Jerry Dominy, the popular miller
at “Gerald’s Mills,” draws the reins over a very fine road horse, which
he takes out for a spin, occasionally.
May 10, 1888 The forest fires, of two weeks
ago, destroyed some nice wood in their track, John Webber and Silas
Lawless, near Bartletts losing about all their available woodland.
Albert Davis, one of our builders, we are happy to state, is on the road
to recovery. A new sight for our village is a big wooden watch, which
hangs on the sidewalk in front of Mr. D. Larued’s residence, indicating
that watches and clocks are nicely put in order there. Wm Raies has got
wood sawing by hand down to a fine point. S.W. Higgins is selling a new
fruit and vegetables prom, potatoes masher, etc.
Coram Our new minister and family have
arrived and settled among us. Dr. Swezey is daily seen among us.
Yaphank
June 14, 1888 Mr. Eorros We noticed in your last issue a method of
root grafting or growing trees, by bending them down in a box of earth,
and when rooted cutting off the limb from the tree.
June 28, 1888 Roswell Davis, one of our
enterprising merchants, believes in ‘showing his colors.” Mr. And Mrs.
B.D. Homan of Freeport are visiting his parents, Mr. And Mrs. Capt, R.S.
Homan of this village. It afforded us real pleasure on Saturday and
Mondays evenings last to see Bennie and his faithful wife propelling the
Captain along the sidewalk, seated in his invalid’s carriage.
July 25, 1888 Highway Master Robbins, since
our recent rainfalls, has resumed work on Main street, which had been
delayed for some time on account of dry weather. Charles Marvin, one of
our enterprising carriage makers, has just turned out of his shops a
fine new wagonette for Charles Howell’s for Charlie Howell’s mail and
passenger line. For some time past complaints have reached our ears
that coons have been secretly investigating the interior arrangements
and contents of hen roosts in our village and, without any legal
authority whatever, they have killed, mutilated or partially denuded of
their plumage some of the best and most useful hens in the village.
September 6, 1888 E.L. Gerald has furnished
lumber and other material for Judge Bartlett, of Middle Island, who is
erecting a large barn, which is now nearly ready for the painter The
Judge has recently greatly improved the appearance of a number of old
buildings still standing on his promises by giving them two coats of
good old fashioned white-wash. Edmund F. Hawkins, one of enterprising
merchants, finding his business increasing quite beyond the capacity of
his old delivery wagon, has just received and put on the streets a new
and handsome delivery wagon capable of carrying large loads – just
adapted to his business.
September 13, 1888 Last week we stated that
Miss Anna A Coles would resume charge of our winter term of school.
November 16, 1888 Judge Willard Bartlett is
still making improvements on his Middle Island property. Gunners and
dogs are nearly as plenty as the game.
November 23, 1888 Our farmers report the
corn crop unusually large this season, both stalks and cars having made
a large growth. A large crop of ruta bagas has been grown here and
shipped from our railway station at 20 cts. Per bushel on board. The
apple crop is so exceedingly light in this section that it is highly
probable that most of our citizens will be compelled to get through the
long winter with little or no cider. B.F. McCreary is now selling his
large crop of cabbage to our citizens for their winter supply. J.
Elbert Randall now occupies that homestead of his father, the late
Samuel Randall.
January 18, 1889 Several relatives of Wm.
H. Homan, of Sparkill on the Hudson, left our village to attend the
marriage of his daughter Eiffle, at her home, on the 16th
inst. Wm J. Weeks, on Monday last, was first in harvesting ice, from his
private pond, filling his ice-house with ice about five inches thick.
Ice houses were filled here last week, and our young people are happy in
anticipation of reaping a bountiful harvest of ice cream next summer. A
big fire in the woods on Monday last, starting a short distance east of
Yaphank station, burned with great headway towards Moriches, doing great
damage to standing wood. Miss Mary L. Booth, whose death was announced
last week, in 1843, when 12 years old, taught a small private school in
her father’s little workshop, which stood about four rods back of the
house in which Miss Booth was born.
Yaphank ------ June 7 1889
A German artist
and wife are boarding at the Cottage Inn, and sketching some of the gems
of rural scenery found hereabouts. S.H. Ritch of the County clerk’s
office made his friends here a call Saturday.
The Middle
Island strawberry growers are beginning to pick their crop this week;
crops large, berries not very firm, fair price.
Yaphank-------June
14 1889
Charles Marvin’s
carriage shop is as usual blocked with wagons in a state of repair and
paint. Where they all come from we are at a loss to tell; But Charlie
gets them all the same.
Yaphank-------July 5, 1889
Augustus
Woodward, who has the contract carrying the Middle Island mail made his
maiden trip July 1. The horse was so delighted with the trip that after
supper, in the cool of the evening, he let himself out for a lively
gallop up and down Main Street, Gus, and several other boys falling in
the dim distance, a distance that lent enchantment to the view,
Charlie Howell’
made his first trip through the village last Saturday evening with every
fine stock of ice cream, witch was speedily sold out” and yet they
wanted more.” Charlie say’s he intends to run the wagon regularly this
season, and supply the guests with cream. Lovers of ice cream will
extend to him such a welcome as will ensure his success. That’s our
private opinion.
Middle Island-----Sept. 6, 1889
The Middle Island
Sportsman’s club is having quite a piece of land cleared to sow with Rye
this fall for the Quail to feed upon, George and James Randall are doing
the work.
Middle Island -----Sept. 20,
1889
The
Bellport Stars, after reaching the top of the ladder, were this week to
hold their position when they faced the Middle Island club on the
Yaphank grounds last Saturday. The following is the score by
innings 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Middle Island 1 0 1 0 1 7 4
1---15
Bellport Stars 0 1 1 0 0 0
2 0 1—5
The
Bellport Nine need not feel so downhearted to think that, are Nine beat
them so badly on the 14th, for they blat the Yaphank Nine a
few weeks ago. They will have to say less and work harder when they
think of playing against the Middle Island Boy’s again, as you know they
are smart.
Yaphank----- October 4, 1889
J.H. Randall is shipping off a car
load of potatoes. We learn he has 1500 bushels in fine condition.
Our school will soon have new desks
and seats. We trust the children will use them with care and the
trustees see that they are not defaced by bad boys. Now have the ceiling
kalsomined, the walls papered, the room will look nice for some years.
Roswell Davis,
our new postmaster, took charge of the post-office on Tuesday. It is now
in his store, and he say’s is there to stay permanently , which is not
very bright news to some of our Democratic friends, who want the earth
all to themselves.
Middle Island-----October 18, 1889
We
noticed an article in the Bellport correspondence last week something
like the following: We understand that a challenge was extended to the
Middle Island nine by the Buckeyes to play them a game of base-ball,
which they were to cowardly to accept. Shame!” We think the Bellport
correspondence a little too previous, as the Middle Island Nine accepted
the challenge by return mail for the day and date named, “by the way,”
The Middle Island Nine requested the Bellport Stars to play a second
game on the Yaphank grounds according to agreement of both captains and
they positively refused to do so. Shame! But then it is quite natural
that they should want to remain as near the top of the ladder as
possible. The day for the Buckeyes to appear came but the Buckeyes did
not. Shame! An exhibition game was played and resulted in a score of 12
to 14.
Middle
Island-----October 25, 1889
The Bellport correspondent makes a poor excuse for his Nine not being
willing to come up here and play us in the woods. We did not ask them to
play us in the woods but offered to meet them on the Yaphank ground,
which is in the lot adjoining the county Almshouse; and to ask them to
go to another place where all Suffolk County would be represented.
Yaphank--- January 24, 1890
Luther Fields, An old man (a woodcutter) was
found dead in a choppers shanty at Ridgeville on Friday last, where he
had been living alone. He was unwell for a day or two previous to his
death. He was a quiet, peaceable old man, and had followed this
occupation for many years in the vicinity.
Middle Island--- January 24
1890
Geo. Prosser, of the J. Dayton farm has been
making improvements- large kitchen built onto the farmhouse, large new
hennery erected, and workman are rebuilding the tenement house on the
estate.
Yaphank-----January
24, 1890
Boss Edmund
Howell and son have completed the carpenter work on the new Town Clerks
office, and it is now in the hands of the painters. The extension is
being painted in colors and the interior walls and ceiling of yellow
pine being handsomely finished in oil. A new sign will soon surmount the
front cornice of the office. Book shelves and closets occupy one side of
the room, and the new safe, weighing nearly 2700 lbs, occupies one
corner of the office, and is pronounced absolutely proof against fire of
burglars. The Town Clerks Office will certainly be very convenient.
Yaphank----May
16, 1890
No
license has been granted for the sale of liquor in our village, and, if
we rightly interpret the general attitude of our citizens, there is no
prospect that such a license will be granted in a long time--- the
longer the better. Let Christianity and morality prevail.
Elmer F. Homan
reports that his 15 hens laid 800 eggs during April. If anyone can give
us a better report we would be pleased to hear from him. Mr. Homan
certainly has splendid fowls, and his advertisement may be found in the
One-Cent column.
Middle Island----May
23, 1890
Miss Cynthia
Hutchinson is erecting a new barn. Warren Cherry is doing the carpenter
work and Gardner Topping the mason work. The Ridge school closed last
Wednesday, the 21st and Thursday the 22nd. The
teacher, scholars, and parents spent the day on a picnic over at the
sound.
Middle Island----
June 13, 1890
Edward A. Sweeney
died on last Friday morning. Funeral services conducted by Rev. F.E.
Allen, assisted by Rev. Mr. Lowery of Port Jefferson, were held on
Monday afternoon before a large congregation.
Hurrah! The
Middle Island B.B. club went to Bellport last Saturday and defeated the
Buckeyes 28 to 13! Its no use talking the M.I.B.B. club is too much for
the two Bellport clubs. (The Stars and the Buckeyes) but don’t cry! The
superiority of the Middle Island boys is proved by the following details
play was called at four o’clock. Buckeye stock at par. The home captain
having choice of innings chose the field and for the Buckeyes took a
turn at the bat the M.I. boys had placed 18 runs to their credit and
virtually won the game. The beginning of the fourth inning the score
stood 17 to 0 in favor of the visiting club. The Buckeyes stock 50
percent below par. Not a Buckeye had yet reached first base safe. After
this the M.I. Boys got reckless and through errors the Buckeyes scored
13 runs during the next 5 innings. When in the 9th inning the
M.I. Boys again settled down to play and retired the side in 1,2,3
order, not a man seeing first base, thus ending the hallucinations of
the Bellport correspondent and his petuteams.
Score 1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
M.I 18 4
0 0 0 3 0 4 4---28
B.B. 0
0 0 7 1 1 1 3 0---13
Yaphank---June
13, 1890
Charles E. Howell
has proved himself a genius. With the assistance of Master Fred Howell
he has built and painted an omnibus body, which he has had placed on
gearing and is now running on his mail and stage line.
Yaphank---June 13, 1890
Last Saturday, after
business hours, Editor Vandusen rode his handsome bicycle from his
office in Patchogue to Yaphank station in 1 and ½ hours, a distance of
nearly or quite 10 miles. If the roads had not been soft and muddy Mr.
Vandusen would have shortened the time considerably and have reached the
station in time to take the evening train for his home in Southold, but
he didn’t. He accepted the generous hospitality of Superintendent
Jonathan Baker, and boarded the train for his home at 11:00 am Sunday. I
had the pleasure of mentioning that Mr. Vandusen made a personal phone
call Saturday evening at Cottage Inn, The home of myself and family. We
invited the genial Editor to come again- come often our “latch string
hangs out”.
Yaphank----July 11, 1890
The Forth was celebrated here in
the evening by an ice- cream festival and a fine display of fireworks at
the Presbyterian parsonage. The lawn was furnished with benches and
tables, and the scene was lighted by long cordons of Chinese lanterns.
The attendance was so large that 3 times the amount of ice-cream and
other refreshments supplied could have been readily sold. Many people
from adjacent villages were present. On account of the short supply of
ice-cream, the party broke up early.
Yaphank----July 11,
1890
The Yaphank cemetery
association have ploughed and turnpiked the road leading from Main
Street to the cemetery have made some improvements in the cemetery.
Yaphank---June 20th
1890
Strawberries are
yielding well here and fine berries are retailing at 10 cents per quart.
Raspberry plants were winter-killed to considerable extent, owing to the
sap flowering during the mild weather last winter; consequently the
yield of raspberries will be light.
Yaphank---June 20th
1890
Capt. S.W.Higgins,
census enumerator seems to be doing the work in a faithful and careful
manner, having, so far as I have learned, met no very serious obstacles-
having used courtesy and discretion in handling certain in “impertinent
questions.”
Yaphank---June 20th
1890
The society for the
prevention of cruelty to animals held a final hearing in the Woodward
case last Saturday before Justice J.H. Randall in Middle Island after
the hearing and careful examination of the horse, Mr. Woodward was
required to sign an agreement not to drive the horse for a certain
number of days and to pay costs of suit. The merciful man will be
merciful to his beast. Let the unmerciful man
beware.
Yaphank----July 11,
1890
The festival which
was held on the rectory grounds on 3rd and 4th of
July proved to be a complete success, over 30 dollars being cleared.
This is the greatest festival which Brookhaven has ever seen and has
resulted in the greatest profits.
Middle Island ---July
11, 1890
The 4th
of July demonstrations in this place were very slight, Merchant J.R
Randall being about the only one who displayed any fireworks. There was
a game of ball in the afternoon between the Middle Island and the
Yaphank clubs on the former’s grounds, but even this lacked excitement
from the fact that it was a one-sided game from the start in favor of
the home club. Joseph Donham, who was reported as being a star pitcher,
was placed in the box for Yaphank and was fairly well supported behind
the bat by T. Donham. Donham had apparently lost confidence in his
delivery and refused to enter the box, and retire in favor of W.Still
who was batted freely and he retired at the beginning of the 4th
inning in favor of
Woodward.
Yaphank----August 8th
1890
C.W. Train, having
official authority to prohibit the pasturing of cattle or horses on the
public streets and to order the removal of tiles, hitching post and
other obstructions from the sidewalks, has already secured obedience to
the law and several instances and is urging on the reform in these
matters with a determination to clear the entire village and vicinity of
nuances have been tolerated too many years.
Yaphank----August 8th
1890
Boss Alfred Davis has painted the roof
of the town red-no; he has only painted the roof of his cottage red.
Yaphank----August
8th 1890
Rev. J.M. Denton, pastor of
the Presbyterian Church, has ended his course of Sunday evening sermons
on the “pilgrim’s progress”, and has begun a series of Sunday evening
“talks on religious topics”. His subject fore next Sunday evening will
be “truth in various aspects” a subject at once entertaining,
instructive and profitable.
Yaphank---August—15th 1890
Messrs. B.F. McCrery and
Mordecai Homan are spending a few days vacation at the Government Life
Saving station, opposite Smiths Point, where they are resting and
recreating after a season of active labor a on the farm many other
farmers and their faithful wives and daughters would be greatly
invigorated and both mind and body by taking an occasional vacation from
their incessant labors and very likely prolong life many years. “All
work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.”
Yaphank----August
15th 1890
The subject of Rev. Mr. Denton’s
address at the Presbyterian Church next Sunday evening will be “faith
represented by hope, truth and love.”
Middle
Island—August 15th 1890
The fair held last
week for the benefit of the Presbyterian Church was a success both
financially and socially, the gross receipts amounting to about $ 185.
Middle
Island---August 15th 1890
Mrs.Vanhorn died
very suddenly at her residence at Artist Lake on Tuesday morning, aged
about 90 years.
Middle
Island----20th 1890
The Ridge school
commences Sept. 15th with Miss. Ada Randall as teacher.
Middle
Island---20th 1890
Some of the farmers
are digging and storing their potatoes, hoping to receive better prices
in the near future. Some have begun cutting their corn.
Yaphank---November 8th 1890
Sylvester Homan
died at Yaphank, on Thursday morning Oct. 9th, after an
illness of about 3 years, which he bore with great patience, considering
the fact that he had been a very active man when in health. He was born
at Middle Island, August 24th 1815 and his home for many
years was a beautiful residence in this place. He was a man of much
faith and prayer. He loved Gods house, and delighted to worship with his
people. It is the universal testimony given of him, that, no matter how
busy he was, he always found time to attend the prayer meeting and take
an active part in its service, and also he was always ready to help his
neighbors in any trouble whether sickness or death. He has filled the
position of Sabbath school superintendent an elder in the church, and
was always ready to do what he could for its progress. As long as he was
able to go anywhere he went to the Lords house. His last words in prayer
were for the penitent, that they might be brought saintly to know Christ
as their savior and spend their lives in his service. He knew his end
was nigh, and so set his house in order, longed to go, and at the last
lay down and quietly fell asleep in Jesus..
Yaphank----December
13th 1890
Geo. Randall of the
“Ridge” has closed up his farm here and removed to Freeport. Where he
will engage in business with his brother in J.J. Randall of “Randall
Park,” in his extensive real estate and building operations there. In
the loss of Mr. Randall and family from our vicinity we lose a most
esteemed citizen and business man, and Freeport gains what we lose. His
many friends wish him the best of success in his new field.
Yaphank December
13th 1890
A very interesting
prayer meeting was held at Capt. R..S. Homans on Wednesday evening.
Yaphank
January---3rd 1891
J Von Rhee of West
Yaphank has had a new house of good size two stories, with flat roof,
erected on his land this winter, to be used as a dwelling and shop, the
first floor has a tailor shop and factory, Boss A.L. Davis, builder.
Yaphank
January---24th 1891
Gerard’s Grist Mills
are running at full blast, with many new improvements.
Yaphank
January---24th 1891
The bodies of the
deceased inmates of the Alms-house are being removed from the burial
ground near the railroad to their new cemetery, which is situated in a
secluded spot in the woods on level ground, north-east of the Alms-house
not far from Carman’s River. May they now rest in peace.
Middle Island
April—9th 1891
A large circle of
friends and acquaintances will learn with sad surprise of the death of
our beloved neighbor Mr. D. Everett Swezey, which took place at his
home, on the morning of March 18th. For some three years his
health had been failing, and grave fears in regard to his recovery were
causing much anxiety, but no one thought the end was so near. It seems
hard that one just entering the vigor of manhood, and in his character
giving evidence of so many estimable qualities, should be thus taken
from our midst, when in so many spheres of local life he was so much
needed. He was born and reared in Middle Island, and was attached to
society here by many lengths of association and affection. Born about
the beginning of the late war, he grew to manhood’s estate on the
ancestral homestead of his mother. In youth his scholastic education was
completed by several terms in the higher departments of the Patchogue
Union school, then under the instruction of Professor Levi Seely Jr.
after devoting one year to the teaching of a district school (No. 16) in
Middle Island, he turned his attention to the farm, In which occupation
he manifested an enthusiasm and enterprise seldom equaled. Wherever he
came in contact with his fellow man he made friends, by his uniform good
nature and kindly manner. Laborers who had for many months been in his
employ had been herd to say that they had never heard an unkind, fault
finding or ungracious word from him. He was soon recognized as a proper
subject for the exercise of public trust and local affairs. He was
elected town assessor in 1889, And besides holding for several years
school district offices, he was a trustee of the Presbyterian Church
here. His last days work in any business capacity was to act as pole
clerk with the election board in this district at the fall election of
1890. The office of assessor he felt obliged to resign a year ago, on
account of failing health. In accord with advice for a change of
climate, he went last August to Colorado Springs, and there remained
until about the end of February. Not perceiving any improvement in his
condition he longed to see Middle Island and many times after his
arrival expressed himself as being so much pleased to be at home again.
As the fatigue of the journey wore off he seemed to be more comfortable
until a hemorrhage set in, which crushed out his life in a few hours. We
shall all miss him, and mourn a loss in his removal-in the Sunday
school, choir, in the parish society, in social circles, in business and
neighborhood circles- but in the home circle of which he was the central
figure, no language can measure the loss, nor picture the crushing
burden that rest upon sad hearts there. Terms of human sympathy may
flow, but how weak to meat a case like this! More that 50 years Ago Mrs.
Dana wrote a verse which has so many echo’s here that we trust we shall
be pardoned for repeating it.
Middle
Island---April 25th 1891
Miss Jerusha Hurtin
died on Friday April 178th, after a short illness, at the age
of 66. She was a remarkable instance of good health, and had never known
sickness or pain until, Monday prior to her decease, when she was
attacked by the gripe. Nor did she find it necessary to take to her bed,
But sat down a few hours before her death and died in her chair. The
funeral was held in the Presbyterian Church on Monday. The pastor, Rev.
Mister Allen, officiating. A great loss has been sustained by the church
of which she had been a member for many years and always exhibiting a
kind and loving disposition, and noble Christian character. Several of
her friends from East Patchogue and the village were present at the
funeral.
Yaphank----May 16th
1891
Charlie Howell has
added a handsome canopy-top wagon to his livery outfit. Thos Denham is
now assisting Mr. H on his stage line.
Yaphank June 6,
1891
William Phillips, one
of our old and wealthy citizens, passed away last week after an illness
of some weeks, being the result of an attack of gripp which left him
unable to combat its fatal shock at last. Mr. Phillips was born in
Yaphank in 1824, being a son of Esquire Phillips who resides on the old
homestead. Years ago Mr. Phillips commenced a clearing in the heavy
wooded land adjoining or near our Railroad station, northside, which he
owned, building a home and living alone. He slowly began to make
inroads on the pines and scrub oaks vicinity, and after a long struggle
succeeded in clearing from this forest one of the finest farms in the
country. In 1870 the country authorities were looking for alms house
site and being attracted by this fine farm and its localities and
possibilities, brought Mr. Phillips out and it is now the County
alms-house farm, being of course much enlarged since that time. Later
on Mr. Phillips removed to his land couth of R.R. depot, where he
resided until his death, having amassed a competence, and lived a life
of industry and peace. His property was left by will to his heirs with
some bequests to friends.
Yaphank June 13,
1891
Miss Matterson, our
teacher has closed her school for the summer and returned to her home in
New Berlin, NY. The school under her management has been highly
successful and Miss M. By pleasant ways and personal popularity has won
many friends among us.
Yaphank July 11,
1891
The glorious Fourth
was celebrated in a quiet manner, as becomes our demure and virtuous
village. In the afternoon a ball club from Bellport astonished the
natives and themselves by doing up in fine style a club hailing from the
classic precincts of Middle Island to the tune of 25 to 3. The game was
very entertaining to those present, and we hope they will favor the
audience again. It was played on the Alms House farm.
Yaphank July 11,
1891
Postmaster Davis has
put in his store a new post-office case of letter boxes made by the
Sadler Co., of Baltimore. It is quite an ornament and comprises a
number of lock boxes. These are a new feature for our post-office.
Yaphank July 18,
1891
Prof. Taylor gave an
exhibition here Monday evening, of magic lantern views and readings. He
exhibited a large number of interesting views to a full house.
Yaphank August 1,
1891
Chicken thieves have
been raiding our hens roosts. The losers are Chas Marvin, 30; C W
Train, 75; Thos Denham, 30 ans Co. Alms House.
Yaphank August 15,
1891
At the annual school
meeting of District No 17, held Tuesday evening, James M Ashton was
elected trustee for three years and Joseph H Randall to fill the vacancy
caused by the death of William H Brown. Edward Pfeiffer was elected
clerk and Henry P Hutchinson, collector. It was voted to have a new
roof put on the school building and have the inside thoroughly renovated
and ceiled in the latest design with hard wood. When finished it will
present a very neat and attractive appearance.
Yaphank August 15
1891
Chas Marvins
curiosity collection at his carriage shop, now comprises in addition to
a one horse chaise of 1775-a cradle in which a baby of 1801 was rocked
it is said. What is next?
Yaphank August 15,
1891
Dr. Walters is
commencing to gather his 18 acre crop of pickles.
Yaphank Sept. 12,
1891
Joseph Phillips, from
Black Hills, Dakota is visiting his parents Mr. and Mrs. Philetus
Phillips, after an absence of eight years.
Middle Island
Sept. 12 1891
The Assessors of
Brookhaven town met at the house of Miss Cynthia Hutchinson to make oath
of their work. The assessment of the town this year shows an increase of
something over $100,000 in value.
Middle Island
Sept. 12 1891
Mr. Danz has been
clearing up and improving the appearance of the old Hallock farm which
he recently purchased. this is suppose to about the route of the new
railroad, and when it comes, will help to give credible appearance to
the place in the eyes of passengers. We wish others would follow the
example of Mr. Danz in this respect. We have many picturesque landscape
that is hidden by wild growth of useless brambles and weeds.
Middle Island
Sept. 12 1891
The cornfields look
rich and promising of a good crop. Watermelons are abundant. The growth
in the patches almost cover with luscious fruit. Apples are plenty and
people have begun to make cider. Potatoes are being dug but the crop is
small. Onions are numerous but the crop is small size. Peaches are
plenty.
Middle Island
Sept. 26 1891
Improvements are
being made on the Middle District school house. A new roof has been put
on and new wainscoting around the inside of the room.
Middle Island Oct.
3 1891
School begun in
district No.1 on Monday with R.M Bravies, teacher. No teachers have as
yet engaged in the Middle and Ridge Districts.
Middle Island Oct.
3 1891
The cider Mills are
agog and the juices of the apples flow freely. The crop is unusually
abundant one.
No date given
A watermelon weighing
fifty-one lbs. was taken to Riverhead for an exhibition at the county
fair. It was raised by F Willis Edwards on his farm in the western part
of our village.
Yaphank Oct. 24
1891
Constable Edward E
Ruland captured two colored gents in quick order who stole a horse and
wagon from Jas Randall Ridgeville and took them to Riverhead, catching
one at Babylon and the other thief at port Jefferson. Mr. R is the right
man for constable every time.
Yaphank Oct. 24
1891
F. Von Rhen our
merchant tailor, went to Brookhaven Monday. On his return he will no
doubt be prepared to furnish his patrons with almost anything in his
line from a common business suit to a wedding outfit
Middle Island Nov.
14 1891
Chestnuts are
unusually plentiful about here. a clump of trees near the residence of
Charles Edwards was estimated to give about four bushels. Many of them
were eaten by ducks as the fell from the trees.
Middle Island Nov.
14 1891
Mr. R M Bayles is
building a house or a building, of some kind, upon land which he bought
of Mr. Geo. W. Ritch
Middle Island Nov.
14 1891
Mr. Joseph Hurtin is
building a regrettable cellar of stone, with a storage room above. The
building has a solid oak frame, and is substantially built as every
thing is done in which Mr. Hurtin has a band.
Middle Island Dec.
5 1891
J H Randall has has
been to the city and purchased a new buggy and horse, and with them he
drove up last Wednesday. It is a handsome black Canadian horse.
Middle Island Dec.
5, 1891
A blooded bull of the
Jersey breed, belonging to Judge Bartlett, became entangled in his rope
and choked to death, one day last week.
Middle Island Dec.
5, 1891
Thanksgiving services
was held in the Presbyterian church Rev. Mr. Nash of the Coram M E
church, assisted Mr. Allen with the services.
Yaphank Dec. 5,
1891
Mr. Sylvester M
Swezey has purchased the homestead of the late Williams Phillips at
Yaphank Station, and intends shortly to remove their with his family. He
has spent his life thus far in Middle Island, and his friends here
regret very very much his proposed departure from their midst.
Middle Island
Dec.5, 1891
Mrs. Selah Randall
and her family, who have for the past six months been occupying the
Edward A Sweezy homestead, have moved have moved back to port Jefferson
for the winter.
Middle Island Feb.
6 1892
One of the saddest
causes of prolonged suffering that has been known to the people of this
place was that of Clifford Randall, and son James Randall and grandson
of the late Lester H Davis of Coram. In the spring of 1884 he was
attacked by hip disease which confined him to bed and subjected him to
most intense pain. He was then a youth of fourteen years of age. From
that time until his death, which occurred Monday night of last week Jan.
25th he has not been able to stand on his feet or get up from the bed or
invalid chair which for the last four years he occupied. During that
period of nearly eight years he was enable to endure the intense agonies
which at times racked him by the use of opiants.In his confinement he
spent much time reading, when his suffering abated sufficiently to allow
him to do so. By this means he had gained a degree of intelligence
superior to that of most men his age. For a few weeks the disease seemed
to gain upon him, and he resolutely determined the use of opiates. Thus
amid excruating tortures his physical frame wasted away while his soul
in trust with Jesus grew stronger and he looked with longing for the
change which was to open to him the gates of eternal peace. The funeral
was held at the Presbyterian church on Wednesday afternoon.
Middle Island
Feb, 20, 1892
Our neighbor, Charles
Brown, after a lingering illness passed quietly from earthly scenes on
the morning of Thursday, Feb, 4th. His lonely widow has the sympathy of
the friends who understand her situation. She had married him less than
a year ago, and having left her former home in Louisiana, had not been a
resident here long enough to have made many acquaintances. Having no
relatives or old friends in this part of the country she is left in a
very lonely position. Mr. Brown had been for several years a member of
the Brooklyn police force, and had spent some time in the west.
Consumption had seized him when some three years ago he sought an asylum
in the quiet home of his father in this place. For a time he seemed to
be benefited by the favorable atmosphere of Middle Island, and thought
himself almost free from the disease, but for that last two month she
has been in a decline and the fell disease closed his earthly record at
the early age of forty-one years.
Middle Island
March 19, 1892
Another of our
aged residents passed away last week- Mrs. Nelson Munsell-- at the age
of eighty-two years. She had been a faithful wife and mother, having
served the family long and well. A large family of children were
faithfully reared and cared for by her. Her maiden name was Marcia
Havens, and she was married to Mr. Munsell in May, 1837, Rev Ezra King
performing the ceremony. Their married life together thus covered a
period of nearly fifty-five years.
Middle Island
April 16, 1892
The Viertel
boys are doing a good work in cleaning up the roadside and hedge
brambles along the west side of their farm. They are industrious
fellows, and their work is decided improvement. Clearing away the
rubbish has brought a belt of grand old maples, skirting a beautiful
slope of cultivated fields, that gives a charming landscape and a very
pleasant stretch of park-like drive between the country road and Lake
Buckingham.
Middle Island
April 16, 1892
Measrs J H
Randall and R M Bayles have been making a tour through several of the
Southern States. They returned home in time to vote.
Middle Island
April 16, 1892
School in
District No. 17 was closed last week on account of the sickness of Mr.
Sanders with a bad cold and threats of the grippe.
No Date
One of the
most conspicuous improvements that has been made in recent years is the
new grocery wagon which represents the store of Edward Pfeiffer. It is
a thing of beauty and our people are all pleased to see it on the road
as it makes its semi-weekly rounds. But more than beauty, its
arrangements show much study and inventive genius in securing so much
convenience. The fact that it was built by Charlie Marvin is sufficient
to secure for it the highest rating by the "Board of Underwriters
Middle Island
April 23, 1892
At the
Republican primary held on the 15th, Mr. J H Randall was elected
delegate for the Seventh District to the County Convention, and Mr.
Smith W Higgins alternate.
Middle Island
April 23, 1892
A German
family have moved into the J M Rose place at Artist lake, and are
beginning farming operations. We have not learned the name.
Middle Island
April 23, 1892 *******(Parts I can not read so I left it blank)
The removal of
the "remains" from the Town Clerk's office at Coram to that at Yaphank,
was attended with much pomp on Tuesday of last week. The procession
moved through this village, and attracted as much attention as a circus
parade might have done. The truck
drawn by eight horses, and accompanied by about twenty men, holding
ropes from the top of the safe to guard against its blowing off the
truck, as there was a still breeze blowing at the time. Would it not be
a good plan for the town to build a clerk's office on wheels, ready to
move bodily at every turn of the political tide.
Middle Island May
7 1892
Capt. Ulysses H Ritch
was a visitor at a home of his boyhood in this village last Sunday. He
has been for twenty years been upon the sea, latterly making long
voyages having many times circumnavigate the globe. Within a few weeks
past he has chartered for a still longer voyage the voyage of matrimony.
His friends here wish him or them a prosperous voyage. His bride is the
daughter of Edmond Overton of Port Jefferson. Capt. Ritch for a wedding
trip took his bride to the home of his early boyhood in North Carolina.
He was a small boy living there during the years of the war. His father
was a union man and for a time was imprisoned with other unionist of his
locality, and was also forced to leave his home by rude exigencies of
war. After the death of his father in 1866 young Ulysses came north to
live with his uncle the late George W Ritch of this place.
Yaphank May 14,
1892
Yaphank has started-
yes it has made a move. On Friday of last week a flag-pole was erected
on the grounds in front of the octagon school house, and today a
beautiful starry banner floatly proudly over district school no.18 for
the first time. The teacher Miss Matterson deserves great credit for her
enterprise with the aid of her scholars in presenting the village with
its first public flag and the two old G. A. R veterans have made
themselves a warm place in the hearts of the children, by making it
possible to stand beneath the stars and strips on this Arbor Day.
Middle Island June
4, 1892
The event which
neighborhood gossip had for sometime been predicting has eventuated. The
Rev. Mr. Nash was married to Miss Amelia daughter of John Elsebough on
Wednesday of last week, at the home of the bride’s parents. Rev F M
Hallock performed the ceremony. The newly married couple have the best
wishes of the people of this vicinity for their connubial happiness.
Yaphank July 30,
1892
Yaphank had a genuine
surprise the other day. After an absence of 28 years Wilson , the son of
MR. Tunis Whitbeck, of this place, returned to the place of his birth
and with him his wife from his home in Terra Haute. Ind. They were
entire strangers, none knew them not even his father and brothers. He is
a painter by trade and is doing well. He grew up and old in his home in
the place of his adoption and after three years has he takes a vacation
and proposes to do the metropolis of the Empire State, and also the
capitol of the United States on his return to Indiana.
Middle Island
Sept. 17 1892
The Middle Island boys
went to Setauket to play a game of baseball with the Setauket boys
Saturday afternoon. We understand both came out ahead shoulder to
shoulder.
Middle Island
Sept. 17, 1892
Mr. Lewis Ritch has
gone on a sea voyage to the brick making town Haverstraw. Hopes to make
it safely without getting a "brick in his hat"
Middle Island Sept
17, 1892
Who says Mrs.
no-and-so is the first woman school trustee in Suffolk County? I can
recall the names of four that have been elected at different times
within the last ten or twelve years, Mrs. Conklin at Bellport, Mrs.
Bloomer at Holtsville, Mrs. J J Edwards at Middle Island, Miss Emma
Norton at Coram. It may be information to know that there are at the
present time a number of ladies holding the office of School
Commissioner in the State of New York. There is one in Clinton county,
one in Onondaga county and two in Oneida county.
Middle Island
October 29, 1892
One of Elbert Swezey’s horses, a valuable young animal, is wavering
between life and death with lockjaw.
Yaphank November 19, 1892
The sad news comes to us from the West,
of the death of Daniel Dayton by the accidental discharge of a gun,
carelessly handled by himself. Daniel left here only a few months ago,
to take his chances at making his fortune near a married sister, and
grow up with the great West. He was about 16 years of age. His widowed
mother has our sincere sympathy. Her husband dies and is buried in
Montana.
Middle Island
A little boy, son of Thomas J. Smith,
who was playing with matches about the barn, set it on fire burning it
to the ground. This took place at about four o’clock last Monday
afternoon. The child was burned to death being scarcely recognizable.
It is supposed that he had climbed into the manger or stable where he
could not get out. Mr. Smith was away from home at the time.
Middle Island January 7, 1893
Mr. Selah Randall, while at his farm at
the Ridge last week, was attacked by a vicious horse and badly bitten.
The horse laid hold of his right elbow, lifted him from the ground and
threw him into the manger. No bones were broken, but the joint was
injured and severe bruises otherwise sustained. Mr. Randall was able to
ride to his home at Port Jefferson on the following day.
Miriam Hudson, a former resident of Middle
Island, died at Setauket on the 28th at the age of 85 years.
She was buried here in the old ground among her friends on the 30th.
Mr. R.M. Bayles has bought a lot of Henry P. Hutchinson on top of the
hill and is building an office upon it.
Yaphank January 14, 1893
N.B Overton, our popular butcher, has returned
from his visit in the northern part of the state. Boss Albert
Davis has completed the new library for the Sunday school and Capt.
Higgins will put the finishing touches on as he knows just how it is
done.
Middle Island January 28, 1893
A house on the farm of James A.
Randall, at the Ridge, was burned recently while the tenant, Abraham
Steele, was out. He had left a fire in a stove, and this by some
unknown means communicated to the building and caused its destruction.
Judge Randall, Sergeant Ashton and
others are much interested in running foxes, and have had much several
bouts of it. But the foxes don’t seem to mind it much.
The body of young Samuel Davis, of the
schooner Sharpshooter, who was drowned by breaking through the ice in
Port Jefferson Bay, was buried in the old Presbyterian burying ground
here, on Saturday of last week.
Yaphank January 28, 1893
John Murray gave the children of the
Children’s Home a sleigh-ride last week.
Yaphank February 18, 1893
A.B. Overton received a letter last
week from an old friend and neighbor, John R. Dayton, who has been in
Salt Lake City for a number of years. He is now in the dairy business
and writes that he has been successful in all that he has undertaken,
but he says that there is no place like Long Island for him.
The severe cold weather and deep snow
has starved or frozen nearly all the quails. James Ashton has found a
number of dead ones. Capt. S.W. Higgins saw three alive and Mr. Joseph
Hurtin saw five around his grain stack. That is all that have been seen
since the cold snap, as far as heard from.
Yaphank May 4, 1893
Boss A. L. Davis has caught the old
veteran of a fox at last. On Wednesday of last week the Boss and Capt.
Higgins started out to look for the old chap and it was not long before
Seals, the hound, started the old veteran but the snow being deep and
storming, the fox thought it would make a harbor but that was the first
mistake the sly one ever made as the boys soon found where the gent
was. They put a blockade in the shape of a big stick, then they went
home for spades, etc. After about one hour digging they came across him
and killed him in short order.
Yaphank May 11, 1893
William J. weeks went to Washington to
attend the inauguration of President Cleveland. He is a great admirer
of Cleveland.
The Yeaton place was sold Thursday,
under judgment of foreclosure. Mr. Roswell Davis bought it.
The Y.P.S.C.E. held a business meeting
at the parsonage on Monday evening. Mr. James Denton was elected
president, N. B. Overton vice president, Mr. Samuel Darrow secretary and
F. Willis Edwards, treasurer.
Middle Island July 1, 1893
Swezeytown pond appears to be rising,
notwithstanding the dry weather.
Yaphank
The pretty wedding of Miss Laura Weeks
and David Hasselberg occurred at 11 o’clock Wednesday morning in the
Episcopal Church. The bridesmaid was Miss Helen Smith of Longwood and
the best man was a brother of the groom. Rev. Charles Penny of New York
officiated. A reception was held in at the house and the friends made
up a wedding party and accompanied the young couple to the train station
where they bid them adieu amid a shower of rice.
Middle Island August 5, 1893
Henry Elsebough is taking a rest from
his duties as clerk in E. Pfeiffer’s store and his place is meanwhile
occupied by Jotham H. Swezey.
Yaphank September 16, 1893
Mrs. Josephine Collyer of this place died at
her daughter’s, Mrs. Sidney Rich, in Riverhead, last Saturday.
Middle Island October 20, 1893
Richard M. Bayles is building a house on the
hill near Henry Hutchinson’s.
William Still has returned ashore again from
his season’s of yachting.
Yaphank January 12, 1894
On Jan. 13th, Mr. John
Webber at the age of 69 years passed away to his long home. Mr. Webber
was a victim of dropsy and that he was a great sufferer was confirmed by
his words on the night he died when he prayed, “O Heavenly Father! Take
me out of this misery.” The deceased was born in Honiton, Devonshire
County, England, April 1st, 1825. he came to this country in
1857 and settled in Albany, N.Y. where on Aug. 12th of the
same year he was married in St. Peter’s Episcopal Church to Georganna J.
Potts. He left Albany in 1860 and came to Yaphank where he spent the
remaining thirty-four years of his life.
Yaphank March 9, 1894
There have been 30 new books added to the Yaphank
Library.
Middle Island March 23, 1894
Town politics was the topic of interest
here this week. Primaries were held by the democrats at the post office
Monday afternoon, and by the republicans at the store of Edward Pfeiffer
on Wednesday afternoon, and the democratic town convention was held on
the same afternoon at their old stamping ground, the premises of Miss
Cynthia Hutchinson.
Middle Island April 6, 1894
Thieves broke into a tenantless house
on the Van Horn place one night recently. We understand the ladies are
provided with improved firearms and if those prowlers should repeat
their visits they might receive such a greeting as they deserve.
It was feared that the peach crop was
blasted in the bud, but present is that the alarm is not well founded.
What we have seen thus far of the fruit, buds appear to be in a healthy
condition.
Middle Island April 13, 1894
Death has removed another of the Middle
Island boys of a generation that is rapidly passing off the stage of
action. Mr. Charles Swezey, who died at his home in Brooklyn last
Sunday night, was a native of Swezeytown and a member of a family that
has for many generations given character as well as name to the
locality. William Sylvester Swezey, who occupies the ancestral
homestead of that immediate family, is the only one left of a large
family of brothers and sisters who were scattered from their childhood
home to different parts of the town.
Middle Island May 11, 1894
Arbor Day was observed in our schools
last Friday. In No. 14 Miss Brewster had recitations in the school
room. In No. 16 Miss Roswell, there were appropriate exercises in the
room. In both of these districts, the school houses are located on the
edge of the road, with no ground around them, so that the program of
planting trees is impractical. In No. 17, Miss Overton, teacher, a full
program was carried out. Trees were planted, flower beds sown,
exercises conducted in the school room and the whole supplemented with a
collation, which made the occasion one long to be remembered by the
pupils. In No. 19, Miss Randall, teacher, a good program of literary
exercises was presented, and two white pine trees were planted.
Yaphank May 11, 1894
Mr. Norton will move into the Mill house
again. Nearly all the school children have the whooping cough. You
would think you were in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show to hear them
whoop.
Middle Island May 25, 1894
Farm garden products are not always
profitable as an example here shows. Cabbages average a fairly paying
crop, but Messes Swezey and Brevoort kept over about 1400 heads and this
spring shipped them to Bridgeport to market. The returns were just
sufficient to pay the freight and nothing more. Brevoort said, “no more
cabbage for me.”
Middle Island June 8, 1894
Rabbits are very numerous in the
vicinity of Artist Lake. A German family is cultivating tame rabbits,
having about seventy now in their yards. Wild rabbits are also numerous,
and have become quit a pest in some gardens. Decoration Day was observed
by many, in placing flowers upon the graves of friends in the cemetery.
Soldiers’ graves were decorated with flags Lewis O. Conklin Post, G.A.R.
Middle Island June 22, 1894
Two boys from the city or elsewhere
appeared last Sunday morning and began fishing in the lake on the Edward
A. Swezey place. For the convenience of wading out in deep water they
took off their pants and in a half naked condition stood in the water
waiting a bite. The position was a conspicuous one, near the highway,
and the congregation in the church which is near was soon to be out and
pass near. The boys seemed to be ignorant or indifferent to the fact
that they were transgressing three laws at once, first breaking the
Sabbath by fishing on Sunday; second, making an indecent exposure of the
person in a public place; third, trespassing on private waters and
stealing fish. Mr. S. E. Randall saw them and gave them some
unpalatable suggestions, which caused them to come out and mount their
bicycles and speed away toward Coram. There is a class of boys who seem
to have little idea of any regard for law and order on Sunday about
here.
Middle Island August 3, 1894
Rev. James Basset and his family are
brightening things up about the parsonage which has stood unoccupied now
for nearly two years.
Middle Island August 13, 1894
The apron festival held at the house of
R.M. Bayles last week, was a very pleasant and successful affair. The
receipts amounted to $72.
Middle Island September 21, 1894
Death has again visited our community.
Mr. Floyd Edwards died at his home on Sunday night, the 9th
inst. He has been in falling health for several years, but up until a
few days of his death he had been able to move about. He was buried in
the family plot at the Presbyterian burying ground. Rev. O.C. Lane of
the M.E. church conducting the services on Tuesday afternoon. Mr.
Edwards was a member of a well known family of Brookhaven, his ancestors
having been here for a century and a half. His father as well as his
grandfather, bore the well known name of Jonathan Edwards, being of the
same stock and distantly connected with the celebrated divine and
college president of that name. Mr. Edwards married Miss Sally Hawkins
of this place and, and has spent most of the energies of a lifetime on
the ancestral farms, where the couple raised a family of two sons and
three daughters. One daughter died in early womanhood, while the others
still survive, with the widowed mother.
Middle Island October 12, 1894
Miss Cynthia Hutchinson has bought a
horse with which to ride out at times. We are glad to see that she and
her mother have the benefit of such a luxury.
Mr. Edward Pfeiffer has been appointed school
tax collector in District No. 17, in the place of Mr. Henry P.
Hutchinson, deceased.
Middle Island January 4, 1895
Many of our young people are home from
their various schools, for short vacations. Among them we may mention
the Misses Abbie, Winifred, and Ruthie Basset and James Basset,
Irmangard Freeman, Flora Swezey, Nellie Swezey, Carrie Thompson and Ada
Davis.
Yaphank
New Year’s was a red letter day to the
Sunday school at St. Andrew’s church. In the evening the church was
beautifully and artistically decorated with boxwood and vines. A large
tree was selected by Wm. J. Weeks simply groaned under its burden of
costly decorations. The service consisted chiefly of carols and hymns
sung by the choir, made up wholly of boys and girls. The missionary at
the beginning of his address publicly thanked the little ones for their
kindness in singing on that occasion and Mrs. Carmen, the organist, for
her untiring energy and careful training of the little ones which were
fully exemplified in the rendering of the musical part of the service by
the little ones. Mr. Wm. J. Weeks addressed the S.S. scholars. His
subject was “Santa Clause.” He painted in words a gay story of picture
of the contrast between the Santa Clause of today and the Santa Clause
of 60 years ago. The last present handed out was a framed picture and a
pie to the Rev. Wm. Norwood. This caused considerable merriment among
the members of our regular congregation as one and all know full well
the missionary’s weakness for pies. After the exercises were over a
large crowd met in the house of Miss Clara Weeks to see the old year out
and welcome the new year in. The missionary, feeling rather hungry,
made up his mind to sample his pie. He took a bite and found that his
mouth contained a little bit of pie crust and a lot of tissue paper.
His curiosity was aroused when he felt something hard in the pie. He
broke it in two and found, instead of pumpkin or minced meat, money.
The pie was simply lined with quarters, bills, and half dollars. This
reminded him of that little song, “Four and twenty blackbirds baking in
pie,” viz “and when the pie was opened the coins began to chink.” The
whole affair was a grand success and by present indications we can
safely say that not only will the Christmas celebration of ’94 be
equaled by that of ’95 but that it will be excelled. The good members
of our “little church on the hill” fully realize the importance of
making Christmastide a season of giving. Not only were the members of
our Sunday school remembered but as well “The Little Ones Outside,” as
sung by the choir. No better example of the good will and paternal
feeling existing among the members of St. Andrew’s congregation is
needed than the above. No better example can be found elsewhere of the
actual fulfillment of the blessed Saviour’s passionate intense and
fervent prayer, “That they all may be one.”
Middle Island January 18, 1895
Mr. Gardiner Topping has been assured
that his application for a pension will soon be granted. We
congratulate him and hope that he may receive the reward of his
patriotic services in the Navy of the U.S. during the late war.
Considerable wood cutting is being done about here, but prices are
unusually low. The dull market for cordwood makes necessary.
Middle Island February 1, 1895
Mr. John Risley has been confined to the house
several weeks with an attack of the grippe.
Middle Island March 1, 1895
Henry Butler is to take a position on the farm of
Charles J. Randall, the coming season.
Alonzo Chapppel has sold his farm at Artist Lake to
Robert F. Randall, and has moved his furniture to Selden. Rumor has it
that he will there set up housekeeping in the orthodox way.
Middle Island March 8, 1895
Mr. John Risley has had a relapse of
the grip and complications growing out of it. He has been very sick but
at this writing hopes of his recovery are entertained.
Middle Island May 10, 1895
Judge Randall has purchased a new
bicycle, and now he doesn’t propose to take the dust of any of the boys
– nor young ladies either. Several of the land owners of this section
have joined with others in clearing a fire road along the south side of
the Wading River extension railroad. The object is to protect the great
area of forest growth lying between here and that road, from the fires
that are likely to be set by the passing locomotives when the railroad
is in active operation.
Middle Island May 24, 1895
A tract of land adjoining Artist Lake
on the West, and commanding a beautiful view of the lake and its
surroundings, has been sold recently. It belonged to the estate of
Jeremiah Glover, late of South Haven, for a number of years, but we have
not learned the name of the recent purchaser.
Yaphank---March 14th
1900
Ice about 2 ½ inches think, of fair
quality was harvested here Friday, Saturday and Monday last-the cold
snap lasting about a week.
Yaphank---March14th 1900
Dr. Walters, of Brooklyn, has bought
the farm and summer residence, estate of the late Prof. Henry
Molleuhauer, beautiful premises adjoining and over-looking the western
lake in this village.
Suffolk’s Poor Folk
Yaphank
Nov. 15, 1907
- Mr. Wm. Homan of Brooklyn visited friends here
last week.
- Everyone is invited to the meeting in the
school house, on Saturday evening when an Improvement Society will
be formed. Ladies especially invited.
- Mr. Howard Homan has taken the coal business
here, formerly conducted by the estate of the late Edward L. Gerard.
Jan. 17, 1908
- The Civics Association held their January
meeting on Saturday evening and a number of new members were taken
in also a committee was appointed to make arrangements for a ball on
February 22, for the benefit of the society’s treasury. Two more
street lamps were ordered to be placed on Main street.
- It is reported that a new general store is to
be built on West Main street.
- Mr. George Prosser has put up a fine and
commodious new barn on his premises.
- Some activity is noticeable in the local wood
business and there is a great demand for plots of standing wood to
be cut into piles and cord wood.
- Mr. F. Marchant has built a small green house
mostly underground with a glass roof, in which we saw sweet peas and
other flowering plants growing finely without artificial heat.
Middle Island
Jan. 17, 1908
·
There is a good deal of unrest felt among our people this
week, on account of the trial of Christian Inglert who murdered Shepard
Ritch on September 8, 1907. and nearly every available man has been
subpoenaed either by prosecution or for the defense.
·
Those who have ice houses to be filled with the necessity
are getting somewhat nervous owing to the continued mild weather.
Yaphank
Feb. 7, 1908
- Fox hunting is a popular sport here with some,
but catching sly Reynard is not so easy, although some have been
killed, These animals are very plentyful in the woods surrounding
the village and it is no rare sight for wood carters to see one
running along a forest road apparently unaware of being seen.
Middle Island
Feb. 7, 1908
- Judge Furgerson has a large gang of men
cutting and filling his large ice house.
- All other ice houses will probably be filled
by the last of the week.
- The school children are all making the most of
the fine skating.
Yaphank
Jun. 3, 1908
·
At the Christmas exercises of the Sabbath School of the
Presbyterian church those on the honor roll for being present every
Sunday in 1907; Leslie Marchant , Sereno Overton and Elizabeth Iverson.
·
Christian Krabbe had a hog killed the past week weighing
about 450 pounds.
·
Additional lamps are being placed frequently in our
village.
Jun. 5, 1908
- Decoration Day was observed by a parade of the
juvenile Rough Riders under Capt. Leslie Marchant, who fired
military salutes over veterans graves in the cemetery and the school
house at the raising of the flag where exercises suitable to the day
were given by the children and others, and on Sunday, Memorial
services were held in the Presbyterian church by Rev. J .M. Denton.
- Let everyone old and young, rich and poor,
large and small who are willing and would like to assist in having a
big time here on July 4, meet in Randall’s Hall on the evening of
June 10
July 10, 1908
- A forest fire last week burned over 3,000
acres of woodland belonging to the W. J. Weeks’ estate near manor.
- Many former residents came to enjoy the fourth
with our citizens. The parade, band of music, addresses by Messrs.
O.B. Combs and R.M. Bayles and fireworks were enjoyed by all. The
floats were handsome. The boys marched well. The decorations were
general and beautiful. Several arches and flags were over the
streets in the line of march. Thanks are due, Col. T. E .O. Marvin
and his aids for the successful celebration. The question is being
considered how to make next years celebration a still greater
success and keep young America fully alive with the spirit or “76.”
- A loaded decorated wagon came from Middle
Island to join in the July 4 celebration.
- The home of Mrs. Elizabeth Davis being a
relic of Revolutionary days was beautifully decorated for the
fourth. She being a widow of a veteran of our Civil War the
procession halted and a suitable tribute was given her children and
grandchildren.
- Capt. Smith W. Higgins, another veteran of our
Civil War was unable to join the procession on the 4th on
the account of failing health. He was given a solute and the band
played the Star Spangle Banner which he greatly enjoyed.
- Miss Brewster with her brother and friend from
Ozone Park are at the Robbins cottage for the summer.
- A conveyance was provided for Messrs. Gardner
Topping and John Murray both veterans of our Civil War , in July 4th
celebration.
Aug. 14, 1908
- Our young Ball Club played a fine game here
last Saturday against a picked nine of farmers and four ball players
, headed by a hired professional pitcher along with the discouraging
hoots and jeers of the crowd and were defeated by the small score of
4 to 1.
- At the annual school meeting John S. Jones was
re-elected as trustee for 3 years; C. E. Howell, collector; H .
Blonsky, clerk and Miss Ethel Rice of Patchogue was re-engaged as
teacher for the ensuing school term. An enlarged covered porch was
ordered to be built and a stationary school bell with tower was
endorsed by the board of officers and a vote of thanks was sent to
the Hon. W. O. Bartlett for the beautiful 9- foot flag to the
school.
Aug. 21, 1908
- It would be well to unite some of the school
districts around Yaphank, have a union school district and run the
stage to convey pupils here as they are doing in other sections of
the Island.
- At the Republican primary election in District
No. 7 the following delegates were elected Messrs Jonathan Baker,
Dr. C.A. Baker and Capt. James M. Ashton.
Sept. 11. 1908
- A. Lorenzo Homan, about 70 years of age, a
farmer of Yaphank, was found dead in his wagon which was going along
the main road near the Yaphank school house last Tuesday morning. He
had been to the depot to deliver some eggs as was his daily custom,
and left there apparently in the best of health. John Caspers,
seeing the horse going leisurely along and Homan lying on the wagon
seat, ran out and stopped the animal, Dr. Baker happened along and
upon seeing Homan said he had died of apoplexy. Deceased leaves a
widow, He was father of Mrs. Arthur Phillips of Patchogue.
Sept. 18, 1908
- A.P. Homan died suddenly in his wagon, on
Tuesday morning, of apoplexy while engaged in carting a load of loam
along the Main street from U. E. Howell’s to his home not a mile
distant. Mr. Homan was known for many years as a dealer in eggs etc.
and by his untimely demise we lose a popular and much esteemed
citizen and his family a loving parent and companion. The funeral
will be from his home this afternoon, Rev. J.M. Denton officiating.
Middle Island
Sept. 18, 1908
- A shadow of gloom is cast over the entire
community by the sickness and deaths in the family of Victor
Edwards. Mrs. Edwards died on Friday and the 3 year old son on
Sunday, two other children who are sick with the same complaint have
been taken to a New York Hospital , Dr. C. A . Baker attending
physician pronouncing it old fashioned dysentery. Mr. Edwards has
the sincere sympathy of the entire community.
Sept. 25, 1908
- George Prosser has quite a force of pickers on
his cranberry bed, gathering this favorite of the marshes for the
shipment to the city markets.
- School in District 17 will open on Monday
September 28, with George Miller as teacher.
Yaphank
Oct. 2, 1908
- Mr. Howard, the new owner of the John Webber
farm, is having 40 carloads of stable manure put on the land. Hulse
and son are doing the carting from the railroads.
Nov. 13, 1908
- “The contents of the old factory near the
grist mill was auctioned off on Tuesday. This building was erected
about 1842 and run as a woolen mill for a few years, but has been
used as a lumber storehouse for a long time. It will now be taken
down or removed, it is said.
- Mr. Fred Bubb gave a barn dance last Friday
night which was much enjoyed by those present.
Jan. 10, 1909
- Judge Willard Bartlett and family spent a
portion of the holiday vacation at their home here.
Jan. 22. 1909
- Our storekeepers are complaining of the
scarcity of cash customers. Give the cash buyer an inducement;
otherwise he will buy like the storekeeper where he can get his
goods the cheapest or do. the best.
Middle Island
Feb. 26, 1909
- Mrs. Louise Still, wife of William T. Still,
died on Friday, after an illness of a few weeks, closing a life
which though short was filled to the brim with activities and
devotion to the duties of the sphere in which providence had placed
her. Assuming the responsibilities of active life at an early age,
she had given nearly eighteen years to the labors and duties of
married life. Her home and the members of its circle were the
objects of her devoted and self-sacrificing labors. Six children,
ranging from young manhood down to infancy are left with their grief
stricken father to mourn her loss. May kind providence supply
strength and guidance to their burdened hearts. Mrs. Still was about
38 years of age, a native of this place, the daughter of Mr. And
Mrs. Smith Thompson. Funeral services were conducted on Monday
afternoon by Rev. F.E. Allen assisted by Rev. Jacob Norris and a
large concourse of friends followed to the place of interment in the
cemetery at this place.
Mar. 12, 1909
- Mr. Hutchinson says that his black cat can
forecast the weather as well as the weather prophet at Washington
did last inauguration day.
- The size of Mr. Hutchinson’s wood pile looks
as though he thought there were about six months of winter left.
Yaphank
Mar. 26, 1909
- 15000 trout were placed in the two ponds here
this week by the state.
May 21, 1909
- Mr. Isaac H. Robbins, a native of this village
and a well known resident for many years, died on the 16th.
Mr. Robbins had been in failing health for two years and had given
up his farm house and was boarding with Miss M. McGartlands at the
time of his death. Interred in Cedar Grove Cemetery, Port Jefferson.
On Thursday. He leaves no family.
- The first strawberry festival of the season
struck the town Tuesday night at Mr. F. Bubbs, in aid of M.E. Church
and was a great success. Pretty girls and homely young men scooped
in the cream to beat the band, while the strawberries blushed
scarlet as they rolled down the fair maidens throats, and were as
happy as fellow’s new girl. As for the rest it took until a late
hour to satisfy them all, great and small, and many thanks are due
to those who labored so freely to help the occasion along.
Jun. 11, 1909
- The old Homan house on Main street built by
Isaac Homan over a century ago, has been bought by Mrs. C . Krabbe.
- Mr. William H. Homan, an old citizen now in
the employ of the government in the Brooklyn Navy Yard, was here
last week visiting old friends.
Middle Island
Jun. 25, 1909
- Mr. Thomas Harper of Brooklyn was in the
village a few days since negotiating a real estate deal with Mr.
John Butler. We understand he has sold to latter about thirty acres
of his land here.
Yaphank
- The children of the community with their
parents and friends enjoyed the Fourth at a picnic in the afternoon
and evening on the grounds of Miss C.W Weeks where the children were
treated to cake and ice cream.
Jul. 23, 1909
- Mr.Lighthall of Holbrook has been engaged to
teach our school the coming fall and winter.
- William C. Hammer, proprietor of the Yaphank
Hotel and saloon for some years, died after a few days illness on
the 17th . Mr. Hammer left a large number of friends to
mourn his loss, including a wife and three small children. Interment
in the Yaphank Cemetery.
- A large number of summer people and others
attended the social in Factory Hall Tuesday night and enjoyed
dancing to the music of Smith’s Ronkonkoma Orchestra.
Jul. 30, 1909
- The former residence of Mrs. E. L. Gerard,
near the lake, has been sold to Mr. Roswell Davis of Freeport.
- At Lakeview Farm we saw Burbank’s wonderberry
growing and fruiting nicely in the open field. It resembles the
blueberry in color, shape and size with a grape-like skin and of a
fine flavor, growing on low headed vines or plants.
- The bathing season in Swezey’s pond is now in
full blast and the old mill dam is thronged daily at intervals with
crowds of children of both sex who soak themselves in the lake and
have a wet time in general with lots of fun thrown in.
- The picturesque loveliness of our lakes and
the quiet pastoral beauty of our wooden hills and dates, charms and
surprises the strangers who say they never imagined there was such a
pretty spot hidden away on Long Island.
Aug. 6, 1909
- At the annual school meeting on Tuesday night
Mr. Robert F. Hawkins was elected trustee for three years, Mr.
Charles E. Howell collector, and Mr. Henry V. Bloosky clerk for one
year. An appropriation of $640 was made for school purposes. The
sentiment of the meeting was that as the school districts have to
file a map of their boundaries that a committee of the town be
appointed to have each district made uniform for the whole of
Brookhaven town.
- The Misses Mary and Rosalie Baker are at their
father’s cottage at Easthampton.
Sep. 24, 1909
- Van R. Swezey received twelve prizes for
apples and pears from his fruit farm at the Suffolk County fair.
Middle Island
- Miss Minerva Hutchinmen left here Wednesday
for her season’s work in the millinery business.
Oct. 8, 1909
Yaphank
- After a short illness, Gilbert H. Swezey M.D.
died on Sunday October 3, at North Falmouth, Mass., in the 68th
year of his age. Funeral services were held at his late residence at
Yaphank on October 6. Dr. Swezey was an elder of the Yaphank
Presbyterian Church nearly 25 years. He also served many years as
clerk of session and superintendent of the Sabbath School. His life
was full of good work in his profession in the community and for the
church at home and at large. He will be greatly missed.
Middle Island
- We are pained to learn of the death of Dr.
Swezey of Yaphank who was only sick a short time.
- Our school, District 17 is in a thriving
condition under the efficient management of Miss Caroline Thompson.
Oct. 22, 1909
Thriving Yaphank
- Mrs. Herman Somers of Bartlett street who has
been in poor health for a long time died this week. Interment in
Yaphank Cemetery on Wednesday.
- Mrs. S.H. Ritch of Passaic, N.J., is visiting
friends in Middle Island.
Middle Island
- The Funeral services over the remains of Mr.
Ethers of the Ridge were conducted in the Presbyterian Church on
Sunday afternoon at 2 00 o’clock, and were attended by a large
number of sympathizing neighbors and friends Mr. Ethers is survived
by a widow and one son.
- Mrs. Hutchinson who has been quite ill with
neuralgia is somewhat improved.
Oct. 29, 1909
Yaphank
- An evening of fun and social time will be had
at a Hallowe’en party at the residence of Miss C. W. Weeks on
Saturday, October 30. Everyone welcome, Admission ten cents for the
benefit of St. Andrews’s Sunday School. Come and see the ghosts, and
try your fortune. Refreshments free.
Nov. 5, 1909
Coram
- Joe Hallock, while digging a cellar among the
sand hills at Coram last week, unearthed a bayonet of the
Revolutionary War type, such as were used on the muzzle of the flint
lock musket of the 1776 period.
Middle Island
- Mr. Pieiffer has been making a special sale of
Gold Medal Flour at $6.40 per barrel; can you beat it?
- Judge Bartlett has been having a fence built
around the pond here to keep it from running away by looks of
things, but he will have to hurry as it is mostly gone now.
- Potatoes are about the only things that are
moving around here, but they are moving pretty rapidly by the looks
of loads that go by.
- The new intermediate teacher at East Moriches
is Miss Clara Rue, a graduate of New Platz Normal.
Dec. 10, 1909
Yaphank
- A coon and possum supper was held at Lakeview
Farm on Saturday night, Those who had enjoyed the hunting sport with
their wives sat down to a table of good things.
- Mr. Van R. Swezey is setting out hundreds of
apple trees. This is the fruit land of the island. It will be
remembered he secured the first prize for the best apples this fall.
- Loads of gunners are at Lakeview Farm enjoying
the hunting.
- Whereas is has pleased A’lmighty God to his
wise providence to remove from our number Gilbert H Swezey M.D. who
for nearly twenty-five years was an elder of this church and for
many years was clerk of the session; superintendent of the Sunday
school and trustee.
- The graves of the war veterans in our cemetery
will be decorated with flowers by the school children on Memorial
Day.
- The season for black bass fishing opens the 30th
and Artist Lake will be minus some fish.
- Victor Edwards Pond at Swezeytown, Middle
Island, leased by the Patchogue Fishing Club, has a great stock of
the finest fish for miles around.