Norsemen roster lists area icers among 30 free agents (Tonawanda News, 1975-07-31).jpg
Norsemen prospect not the gentlemanly type (Tonawanda News, 1975-09-05).jpg
Norsemen plan game in Aud (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-19).jpg
Norsemen overpower Nordiques, photos (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-11).jpg
Norsemen next 4 home game tickets, basic illustrated ad (Tonawanda News, 1975-11-14).jpg
Norsemen next 4 home games, basic illustrated ad (Tonawanda News, 1975-11-29).jpg
Norsemen next 4 home games, basic illustrated ad (Tonawanda News, 1975-11-21).jpg
Norsemen need an about-face, Trottier photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-05ish).jpg
Norsemen lose, bag Greg Neeld again (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-14).jpg
Norsemen list schedule (Tonawanda News, 1975-05-30).jpg
Norsemen host Codders (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-23).jpg
Norsemen get boost (Tonawanda News, 1975-11-14).jpg
Norsemen drop 3-2 Erie duel (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-22).jpg
Norsemen coaching mystery to end Thursday (Tonawanda News, 1975-08-26).jpg
Norsemen camp open, first game set Friday (Tonawanda News, 1975-09-22).jpg
Norsemen blast Johnstown 7-4, photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-11-01).jpg
Norsemen blast Blades 8-4, photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-11-29).jpg
Norsemen become Toronto farm (Tonawanda News, 1975-09-03).jpg
Norsemen bag 4-1 win (Tonawanda News, 1975-11-03).jpg
Norsemen are halted (Tonawanda News, 1975-11-20).jpg
Norsemen are belted 7-4 (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-04).jpg
Norsemen are back in basic training (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-11).jpg
Nistico impresses in Norsemen action, player photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-11-21).jpg
New executive ticket offices open, team record (Tonawanda News, 1975-11-26).jpg
N-nem stop dusters, Guy pleased, photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-10-06).jpg
N-men to instruct Youth Hockey Clinic (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-13).jpg
N-men take on Blazers (Tonawanda News, 1975-11-07).jpg
N-men outscore Syracuse 4-2, chopped photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-13).jpg
N-men lose 7-5 (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-06).jpg
Mickey seeks Norsemen post, Marshall confirms, photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-05-14).jpg
Mayorial candidate Kissel part-owner, on Board of Directors, photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-09-25).jpg
Marshall wonders if Norsemen will get Gerry the Animal Rawlings (Tonawanda News, 1975-09-20).jpg
Marshall is GM of NAHL club, photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-05-06).jpg
Marshall goes to NHL meetings hoping for some answers (Tonawanda News, 1975-06-12).jpg
Larry Gould - He knows what he must learn to get back to the big time, Gould photo (Tonawanda News, c1975-09-28).jpg
Islanders drop out of Norsemen picture (Tonawanda News, 1975-07-04).jpg
Houston sends 2, Toros 1 to Norsemen facility (Tonawanda News, 1975-10-07).jpg
Greg Neeld making best of it in bid for pro ice hockey career (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-17).jpg
Greg Neeld joins Norsemen icers, photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-10).jpg
Gould named weeks best, photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-11-22).jpg
Goon tactics trigger NAHL suspensions (Tonawanda News, 1975-11-10).jpg
Good luck, Norsemen (Tonawanda News, 1975-09-03ish).jpg
Freddie Hunt Jr now making good on own, photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-11-14).jpg
AI transcription: Famous Dad image hurt Freddie Hunt Jr. now making good on own You might think that if you were interested in becoming a professional hockey player and your father was connected with a team, your chances of making it into the pro ranks would be good. Fred Hunt Jr., the steady right-winger of the Buffalo Norsemen, knows that song-and-dance and he will be the first to tell you that having his father connected with the Buffalo Sabres hurt his chances of making the club. The name Fred Hunt is synonymous with hockey in Buff. The long-time player, coach and general manager of the old Buffalo Bisons of the American Hockey League and now the assistant general manager of the Buffalo Sabres, is the father of 23-year old Fred. Fred Jr., after playing four years of high school hockey at Nichols School and four years of college hockey at the University of Vermont, was put on the Sabres negotiating list after his sophomore year. “I went to their camp before my senior year to see what it was like,” Fred remembers. “After I was done with school I went back to the Sabre camp for a tryout,” he continues. “This was two years ago. What a wasted year that was. “It was tough trying to make the team because I had to be so much better than everyone else only because I was Fred Hunt’s son. The organization was overcautious and had to worry about the criticism. It hurt my chances considerably,” he added. Fred spent most of his first year in the pros traveling among the Sabres’ farm clubs. He started in Cincinnati of the American Hockey League, for a month, was assigned to Dayton of the International League before he was called back to the Swords. They shipped him to Charlotte of the Southern League before the year was out. “It was kind of tough to get going that year because I was in so many places,” he said. “But, the next year I was back at the Sabres’ camp and was having the best camp of my life before I broke my jaw. That kept me out of action for eight weeks. “I worked my way back by training with the Sabres until after the holidays. Then I went to Fort Wayne of the International League. That was also another wasted year.” That brings us up to 1975 with a new hockey team on the Niagara Frontier. “I didn’t want to go back to the Sabres’ organization this year because I knew I didn’t have a future with them,” he stated. “I was called by Willie (Marshall, Norsemen general manager) and asked if I wanted to try out for the club.” “Since the team was close to my home, the situation was ideal. Plus, Willie and Guy (Trottier, Norsemen player-coach) are great people to work under.” So, Freddy decided to leave the Sabres’ organization to get a new lease on life. How does Dad feel about all this? “Well it was hard for him in the beginning with the Sabres because he was my son,” the elder Hunt related. “The only thing he is weak on is checking. They don’t concentrate too much on that phase of the game in college but he will gain that experience with the Norsemen.” How does Mr. Hunt feel about his son playing under his former employee Trottier. (While Guy played with the Bisons of the AHL with Hunt as GM, he set a record for most goals in a season, 55. It still stands.) “Anyone that wants to learn how to score goals only has to watch Guy. He is one of the best goal scorers I have ever seen and he is proving it this year. Look at the number of goals he has scored as compared to the time he has been on the ice,” Hunt continued. “I feel he is a great coach, but more importantly, he is very popular with the players,” the elder Hunt concluded. Freddy really enjoys playing with the N-men. “We have a great bunch of guys. We all stick together and I think you need that to win hockey games,” he said. In 13 games to date, Fred has six goals and seven assists as the right-winger of the Norsemen’s second line. “Freddy has been playing real well for us,” his coach explained. “He came up with three big goals in Philly and seems to be finding the net a lot more now.”
For the relief of the sufferers on the Niagara Frontier, 1814.jpg
Ex-Sabre, Atkinson, seeks Norsemen coaching post, photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-08-05).jpg
Decision is due on coach choice early next week (Tonawanda News, 1975-08-13).jpg
Codders clobber Norsemen, photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-24).jpg
Coaches appointed by NAHL Jets, Comets (Tonawanda News, 1975-08-14).jpg
Coach due soon-Herman loses Norsemen post (Tonawanda News, 1975-08-20).jpg
Chances for Sauve going to Norsemen appear good (Tonawanda News, 1975-06-20).jpg
Buffalo Norsemen week proclaimed, photo of Turecki and Nevearth (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-17).jpg
Buffalo Norsemen Hockey Team season tickets now on sale, illustrated ad (Tonawanda News, 1975-06-05).jpg
Buffalo Norsemen are here, illustrated ad (Tonawanda News, 1975-07-30).jpg
Brawl costly as Norsemen bow in Philly, penalty minutes stats (Tonawanda News, 1975-11-06).jpg
Binkley, Cheropita blending well, goalies photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-02).jpg
Big league cuts due at SC camp (Tonawanda News, 1975-10-02).jpg
Big injuries added to Guys problems (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-08).jpg
Beauce set for N-men, team scoring stats (Tonawanda News, 1975-11-11).jpg
Atkinson nets Toro goal (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-27).jpg
Atkinson may have edge (Tonawanda News, 1975-08-06).jpg
Atkinson - NHL vet searches for lost self-confidence, photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-09-25).jpg
Appointed, Paul D. Herman, vp marketing, photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-06-16).jpg
Another Willie Marshall on ice (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-22).jpg
Ailing Norsemen ponder Toros ties, Willie Marshall photo (Tonawanda News, 1975-12-29).jpg
Lumber Laden Vessel, North Tonawanda, postcard (1919).jpg
St. Mark's Protestant Episcopal Church history (Parish Register, 1868).pdf
[AI transcription] The Reverend George G. Parnell, A.M., of the Diocese of Buffalo, N.Y., held the first service according to the rites and ceremonies of the Protestant Episcopal Church on the 16th day of September, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-eight, in the Methodist Episcopal Church (Tonawanda, Niagara County, N.Y.) Messrs. Sherman, Payne, Judd and Lane were appointed a committee to obtain a place for holding services, and also to take charge of the financial affairs of the Parish. The Methodist Episcopal Church was procured in which place the following services were held by the Reverend George G. Parnell. A.D. 1868. on Wednesday Evening September 16th Monday Evening October 6th Sunday P.M. ditto 11th Sunday P.M. ditto 25th Sunday P.M. November 9th Sunday P.M. ditto 15th Sunday P.M. ditto 29th Friday Evening December 19th Sunday P.M. ditto 13th Friday Evening ditto 25th Sunday P.M. ditto 27th A.D. 1869. ``` Sunday P.M. January 3rd Sunday P.M. ditto 10th Sunday P.M. ditto 17th ``` The persons who attended the services determined by unanimous vote to form a permanent Parish and to have a resident Minister. The Reverend Fredk. W. Peabody, Deacon, commenced his duties as such on the 1st day of January A.D. 1869. The ordination service at Washington Hall was solemnized and appropriately arranged for holding the services of the Church. The first service was held in the morning of Sunday the 24th day of January; the Rector and Assistant Minister officiating. On Wednesday the 3rd day of February, the persons who met and incorporated themselves as a Parish to be known in law as the Rector, Churchwardens and Vestrymen of St. Mark’s Church, Tonawanda, Erie County, N.Y. The certificate of incorporation was filed and on the following day was registered in the book of Records, Erie County, N.Y., at Lockport, in Liber \_\_\_\_\_. The first Rector of the Parish: The Rev.d George G. Parnell. The first Assistant Minister: The Rev.d Fredk. W. Peabody. The first Churchwardens: George Sherman Louis L. Payne The first Vestrymen: Cabot R. Lane (Clerk) Sherman L. Judd Dennis H. Kenmore William W. Wheeler James Sweeney The first Vestry Meeting was held Saturday evening, February 20th A.D. 1869 in the Vestry Room of the Chapel. Mr. Abbott was appointed the first Sexton. Sept.r 8th 1876 The resignation of the Rev.d G.G. Parnell as Rector was received & accepted, & the Rev.d W\.H. Ricketts was appointed Minister in Charge.
Tonawanda Cemetery on deed map (1857, 1897).jpg
The graves in this early Tonawanda burying grounds (shown on an 1857 map as the "Niagara River Cemetery") are moved starting in the 1840s to Sweeney Cemetery in what will become North Tonawanda. Erosion began exhuming the bodies ahead of the rapture, and children walked by exposed ancestors on the way to school. 1857 map found in 1897 deed by Stone and Story Society of North Tonawanda.
1837 Tonawanda Cemetery and 2025 Sweeney Cemetery locations, map overlay.jpg
Cemetery as it appears on Chart of Tonawanda Harbor, with villages of Tonawanda and Whitehaven (1837).
(Some) John Sweeney correspondence with War Department over disability suffered at Fort George in November 1813 (1813–1821).pdf
This is probably not the famous "Colonel John Sweeney." This John Sweeney in 1813 joined Capt. Ransom Harmon’s company of the 13th New York Militia—possibly as a volunteer within a drafted detachment—and was mustered into U.S. service at Fort George in Upper Canada. There, in November 1813, he suffered a debilitating hernia after falling into a cellar while returning from picket duty. Although multiple comrades and a surgeon attested to his injury and honorable service, the War Department ultimately denied his 1821 pension application on technical grounds, ruling the injury occurred outside the line of duty. He would have been present at the notorious burning of Newark (Niagara-on-the-Lake). Colonel John Sweeney, in contrast, served the year before in Dox’s Light Infantry under Gen. Van Rensselaer, where he participated in the ill-fated 1812 Battle of Queenston and reportedly sustained a knee wound that left him lame the rest of his life (obit). Affidavit of John Sweeney – August 31, 1818 Just previous to the 3rd of October last, Mr. E. of Youngstown being at my house, I enquired of him respecting the services of Mr. Sweeney during the present campaign. He stated that Capt. Sweeney had joined the militia in the early part of the campaign (probably about the 1st of September last) and performed duty until late in the year. On my farther inquiry, he observed that he joined the United States army as a volunteer or militia man; that his detachment was attached to several drafted men; was mustered into the U.S. service and formed part of the regular Militia; and performed his duty at Fort George. That he continued to do militia duty at Fort George in the service of the United States (the army at that post being under the command of Gen. George McClure) for about two months and until the destruction of the town of Newark, when he was again drafted together with the said detachment; that he did not procure a discharge from the commanding officer at that time, although he was offered one by Capt. R. Hannon, the said officer offering this believing it would be of no service to him. That about the 10th day of the said month of November, being under the pickets, upwards to the left of the barracks and on the return from the forts where the said guards were stationed, he the said John Sweeney stopped at an uninhabited house the floor of which at the door had been taken away, which not being perceived by this deponent, being in the dusk of the evening he fell into the cellar, which occasioned a rupture, which prevented him from doing duty for 7 or 8 days after, and that he was unfit for duty about a month. ...prevented his doing duty from and after the next morning until seven or eight days thereafter— That it was not at that time cured and that he has ever since at different times experienced great pain and inconvenience therefrom—That it at present disables him from attending to his customary business— That for his services in the militia mentioned, he has received his pay from Capt. Harmon. Harmon says that Joseph McClure was Paymaster of the said Regiment at that time. John Sweeney Sworn to and subscribed this 31st day of August 1818 before me, Ch. Townsend Affidavit of James Campbell – August 31, 1818 State of New York, Niagara County James Campbell of Buffalo in said County being duly sworn sayeth that he was well acquainted with John Sweeney in the months of November and December of the year One thousand eight hundred and thirteen—That the said John at that time was a private in Capt. Ransom Harmon’s Company of drafted Militia—in which this deponent acted as Orderly Sergeant—That he well remembers that said company was stationed at Fort George in Upper Canada, and the said John Sweeney while there as this deponent was informed and verily believes received a fall, the effects of which prevented his attending to duty for several days as further sayeth not. James Campbell Sworn to and subscribed this 31st day of August 1818 Before me, Ch. Townsend Affidavit of John Robson – August 31, 1818 State of New York, Niagara County John Robson of Buffalo in said County being duly sworn sayeth that he was well acquainted with John Sweeney in the months of November and December of the year One thousand eight hundred and thirteen; that the said Sweeney was then a private in Capt. Ransom Harmon’s Company enlisted then in the United States service and stationed at Fort George in Upper Canada. That while in said service the said John Sweeney was disabled and did no duty for several days in consequence of a fall, as this deponent then understood and verily believes; that this deponent was a private in said company at same time and further sayeth not. John Robson Sworn to and subscribed this 31st day of August 1818 Before me, Ch. Townsend Affidavit of Capt. Ransom Harmon – September 1, 1818 State of New York, Niagara County Ransom Harmon being duly sworn sayeth that in the month of November 1813 a detachment was made from the 13th Reg. of New York Militia to serve with the U.S. Army then stationed at Fort George (U.C.); that this deponent commanded said detachment, then being a Captain of Militia, and that John Sweeney served as a private in said corps which was detached to serve one month, but that it was nearly six weeks before it was dismissed. That the said John Sweeney served faithfully until said dismissal but that this deponent did not give him a written discharge, not being applied for by him & further sayeth not. Ransom Harmon, Late Capt. Sworn to and subscribed this 1st day of Sept. 1818 Before me, Ch. Townsend Affidavit of Surgeons Ebenezer Johnson and John E. Marshall – September 2, 1818 State of New York, Niagara County We, John E. Marshall and Ebenezer Johnson, being duly sworn say that we are resident Surgeons of the town of Buffalo in said County—That on the request of John Sweeney they have examined his person, and find him afflicted with a rupture or inguinal hernia, which must necessarily incapacitate him in a great measure from labor; that he is by profession a tailor and these deponents believe him to be disabled one half. Ebenezer Johnson John E. Marshall Sworn to and subscribed this 2nd day of Sept. 1818 Before me, Ch. Townsend Affidavit of Benjamin Purcell – September 2, 1818 State of New York, Niagara County Benjamin Purcell of Ischua, residing in the County of Cattaraugus in said State being duly sworn sayeth that in the month of November in the year 1813 he belonged to Capt. Ransom Harmon’s Company of New York Militia drafted into the U.S. service and stationed at Fort George; that he was acquainted with John Sweeney also of said detachment, and this deponent well remembers that while in the said service the said John Sweeney fell by accident into the cellar of a dwelling house which prevented his doing duty for several days; that this deponent assisted in getting him out of the said cellar and that he knows that it injured him considerably and further sayeth not. Benjamin Purcell Sworn to and subscribed this 2nd day of Sept. 1818 Before me, Ch. Townsend, Judge of Niagara Com. Pleas Certification of Judge Townsend's Authority – September 2, 1818 State of New York, Niagara County, Clerk’s Office I, Frederick B. Merrill, do certify that Charles Townsend, Esq., before whom the annexed affidavits were taken, was at the time one of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas of said County, and that the signatures thereto are of his proper handwriting. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the county this second day of September 1818. F. B. Merrill, Clerk of the County aforesaid Letter from John Sweeney Jr. to Rep. Nathaniel Allen – February 11, 1821 Geneva, 11th Feb. 1821 Sir, I take the liberty of enclosing to you the enclosed papers, and request of you to present them to the Hon. Secretary of War, or to the proper authority appointed to receive applications for pensions. Your prompt attention to this business will confer a favor upon me. The claim I think a good one, the applicant is my father. The facts stated are true, and I think sufficiently proved. With much respect I remain, Dear Sir, your obt. servant, John Sweeney To: Nathaniel Allen, Esq. Member of Congress, Washington City War Department Decision on Pension Claim – June 27, 1821 John Sweeney, late a drafted militia man of the 13th New York Regiment, served U.S. service. It appears that this applicant entered the service on the 10th Nov. 1813 and was marched to Fort George; that about the 15th of said month he was ordered on a Piquet Guard; that he left the Barracks and on the way from thence to the post (where the said guard was stationed), he the said J. Sweeney stopped at an uninhabited house the floor of which at the door had been taken away, which not being perceived by this deponent, being in the dusk of the evening, he fell into the cellar, which occasioned a rupture, which prevented him from doing duty for 7 or 8 days after, and that he was unfit for duty about a month. The above is proved by the affidavits of the claimant & several of his fellow soldiers, but the Captain in his certificate of the service of the said applicant does not mention anything of the injury he is said to have received. Pension Office, 27 June 1821 For decision of Mr. Edwards—whether this applicant can be considered as having been in the line of his duty when he entered the house (for what purpose he does not state)? Decision: The claimant is not entitled to a pension. He could not have been in the line of his duty when he was disabled. Inadmissible. See letter to Hon. Allen, Richmond, Ontario Co., New York. 29 June 1821
Burgar and Van Slycke on List of Sufferers on the Niagara Frontier from Fort Niagara to the Tonewanta Creek and from Lewiston on the Ridge Road to the widow Forsythe, page 4 (1814).jpg
New York Heritage Digital Collections, https://nyheritage.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/VTP005/id/273/rec/19
Niagara River near Tonawanda, map (1876).jpg
Forts, Battles, Batteries on the Niagara Frontier (as ceded by the Senecas to the British Crown, 1764, 1919).jpg
Tonawanda Harbor, map (archives.gov, 1882-03).jpg
Tonawanda Harbor, map (archives.gov, 1881-06-30).jpg
Tonawanda on Survey of the Northern and Northwestern Lakes of Lake Erie, nucleus of Ironton, 1880).jpg
Tonawanda Island, map detail (Principal part of Tonawanda Harbor, 1880-06).jpg
Principal part of Tonawanda Harbor, map composite (1880-06).jpg
Landmarks of the Niagara Frontier, Peter B. Porter, book (1914).pdf
Wurlitzer Factory, snow, NT, photo (1930).jpg
Wurlitzer Factory, alley, NT, photo (1930).jpg
Wheatfield gold, article (Niagara Falls Gazette, 1878-12-11).jpg
Papetiers, Felton Bros., 331 Main Buffalo, 1876-08-16).jpg
Locke buys Lot 10 excepting mortgage and life-lease (1847-11-23).jpg
Locke and Hug receive undivided one-half of Lot 10 from Boltons of Cleveland, indenture (1844-07-01).jpg
Gold in Wheatfield, article (Niagara Falls Gazette, 1878-12-04).jpg
Gold found on farm in Wheatfield, article (Lokport Daily Journal, 1878-12-04).jpg
Felton Stationers, 331 Main, Buffalo, ad (Republic, 1876-07-26).jpg
Black Rock blockhouse, illustration (Landmarks of the Niagara Frontier, Peter B. Porter).jpg
Van Raalte, Elks Club, canal from Tonawanda, photo (1925-10-13).jpg
L.A. Fisher's Romana, Tonawanda Iron and Steel in background, photo (c.1910).png
Bascule bridge south abutment construction, railroad bridge in use just east, photo (Annual canal report, c1918).jpg
Clear view of old train bridge with pediments
Bascule bridge construction, coffer dam, railroad bridge in use, photo (Annual canal report, c1918).jpg
Future Fish Place (Fireman building) photo, gypsy story, front page (Tonawanda News, 1923-05-22).pdf
Survey of lands under water for William H. Gratwick and Robert L. Fryer, map (1876-12-07).jpg
Survey of lands under water for Simson, John, at Grawick, map (1877-07-24).jpg
Survey of lands under water for McGraw and Co., Bond and Front Streets, map (1877-07-24).jpg
Survey of lands under water for John Simson and Benjamin F. Felton (1877-07-24).jpg
Survey of lands under water for John Simson, Benjamin F. Felton (1877-07-24).jpg
Survey of lands under water for John Simson & Theoren W. Woolson, Lots 80, 81 (1877-07-24).jpg
North Tonawanda, Martinsville, Ironton, map detail (1895).jpg
Map of Niagara River, lands ceded to state (1822).jpg
Map of Harbor and Lumber District (1877).jpg
Niagara Frontier War of 1812, map (1888).jpg
Showing Tonawanda "Guard House." Is this the block house? Maybe. In small outposts, a blockhouse might also serve as a guardhouse if it was the only shelter available. But in formal reports or engineer maps, the two terms were distinct.
40 boats completed at Tonewanta, letter (The documentary history of the campaign upon the Niagara frontier, Cruikshank, 1812-08-17).jpg
Locke cemetery plot deed for children, transcription (1865-01-03).jpg
AI Transcription: Cemetery Association Deed Know all Men by these Presents, That the Colonel John Sweeney’s Tonawanda Rural Cemetery Association, in consideration of Forty dollars paid to them by the Children of Jesse F. Locke, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, do hereby grant, bargain, sell, and convey to the said Children of Jesse F. Locke, their heirs and assigns all of Lot Seven in the Cemetery of the said Association, called “Colonel John Sweeney’s Tonawanda Rural Cemetery,” situate in the North Village of Tonawanda, County of Niagara, in the State of New York, which Lot Seven is herein delineated and laid down upon the Register map or plan of the said Cemetery, in the possession of the said Association, and is therein designated as follows, to wit: Lot Seven in Section B. Dimensions one Rod front by Nine Rods deep; be the same more or less. The above granted premises to the said Children of Jesse F. Locke, their heirs and assigns, to have and to hold forever; subject to the conditions and limitations, and with the privileges specified in the Rules and Regulations hereto annexed. And the said Rural Cemetery Association do hereby covenant to and with the said Children of Jesse F. Locke, their heirs and assigns, that they are lawfully seized of the premises above granted, in fee simple; that they have a right to convey the same; that the same are free from encumbrances; and that they will warrant and defend the same to the said Children of Jesse F. Locke, their heirs and assigns, forever. In Witness Whereof, The said Rural Cemetery Association have caused this instrument to be signed by their Vice-President and Treasurer, and their common Seal to be hereunto affixed, this Third day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-five. \[Seal] John Sweeney, Vice-President H. P. Smith, Treasurer. State of New York County of Niagara } SS: On this third day of January A.D. 1865, before me came John Sweeney, who being by me duly sworn, did depose and say that he is Vice-President of the “Colonel John Sweeney’s Tonawanda Rural Cemetery Association,” and that he resides in the Village of Tonawanda; that he well knows the Seal attached to the foregoing instrument to be the common Seal of the said Rural Cemetery Association; that the same was attached thereto by order thereof; and that he signed the same by order of the said Association; and further deposes that the foregoing instrument is the free act and deed of the said Association. And on this same day before me came H. P. Smith, who being by me duly sworn, did depose and say that he is Treasurer of said Rural Cemetery Association, and that he signed the foregoing instrument as such Treasurer by order thereof. J. D. Vandervoort, Justice of the Peace for the Town of Wheatfield. 558 B 2d page J. D. Vandervoort, Justice of the Peace for the Town of Wheatfield. Rules and Regulations. I. All Lots shall be held and used as burial places for the dead, and for no other purpose; nor shall any person be allowed to be interred therein who shall have been executed for any crime. II. The proprietor of each Lot shall have a right to enclose the same with a wall not exceeding one foot in height above the surface, or with a railing enclosing four sides; but the Trustees request that all such enclosures be light, neat, and appropriate. III. Proprietors shall not allow rubbish to be deposited in their Lots; nor shall any fence, hedge, or support of any kind, or any building, be erected, without the consent in writing of the Association first had and endorsed on such building or enclosure. IV. No disinterment shall be allowed, without permission being obtained at the Office of the Association. V. The proprietor of each Lot shall have the right to erect any proper Monuments or sepulchral structures thereon, except that no vault shall be built entirely or partially below ground, without permission of the Trustees of the Association; and that all Monuments and all parts of vaults above ground shall be of cut stone, granite, marble, or iron. The proprietor of each Lot shall also have the right to cultivate trees, shrubs, and flowering plants in the same; but no tree growing within the Lot or border shall be cut down or destroyed, without the consent of the Trustees of the Association. VI. If any trees or shrubs, situated in any Lot, shall by means of their roots, branches, or otherwise, become detrimental to the adjacent Lots or avenues, or unsightly, or inconvenient to the passage, it shall be the duty of the Association, and they shall have the right to enter the said Lot and remove the said trees and shrubs, or such parts thereof as are detrimental, unsightly, or inconvenient. VII. If any monument, coping, or enclosure, or any structure whatever, or any inscription be placed in or upon any Lot which shall be determined by the majority of the Trustees of the Association for the time being to be offensive or improper, or injurious to the appearance of the grounds or avenues, or injurious to the said Lots or surroundings, the President or a majority of them shall have the right, and it shall be their duty, to enter upon said Lot and remove the said offensive or improper object. VIII. It shall be the duty of the Board of Trustees from time to time to cause such avenues or walks to be made, and to make such rules and regulations for the government of the Grounds as they may deem requisite and proper to secure and promote the general objects of the Institution. IX. The proprietors of Lots, and their families, shall be allowed access to the Grounds at all times, observing the rules which are or may be adopted for the regulation of visitors. Recorded October 14th 1865, at 3 P.M. W. H. Wright, Clerk.
Foreclosure sale, Lucy P. Hale v John Fonner, Elizabeth Fonner et al (Lockport Daily Journal (1881-04-06).jpg
Fonner v Johnson, trespass ( Reports of Cases Decided in the Court of Appeals of the State of New York Volume 78, 1879-11-11).jpg
Fonner to Chadwick, 62 acres for $5,200, formality (Index of Deeds 154 p153, 1881-05-11.jpg
This never takes effect; the sheriff's sale actually transfers title
Fonner to Chadwick, 52 acres for $659.11, excepting Fisher's 10, sheriff's sale (Index of Deeds 134 p196, 1881-05-10.jpg
Sheriff seizes Fonner's lands for mortgage foreclosure, article (Lockport Daily Journal, 1880-05-10).jpg
Offer two sites for new parks, Chadwick's and Black Hanna's woods, article (Tonawanda News, 1927-10-10).jpg
Masonic Tonawanda Lodge 247 invites brethren to burial of Jesse T (sic?) Locke (Lockport Daily Journal & Courier, 1861-03-14).jpg
Human bones tell old story, article (Niagara Democrat, 1909-02-05).jpg
Foreclosure sale of Fonner's western swath of Lot 10, article (Lockport Daily Journal, 1881-04-27).jpg
Chadwick v Fonner judgment affirmed with costs (1876-01-17).jpg
Chadwicks passenger list - NYM237_19-0362.jpg
Ben Felton, mention of Hanna woods, article (Tonawanda News, 1959-07-15).png
John and Hannah Johnson, collected federal and state census information.doc
1840 U. S. Census - Town of Wheatfield Name Category John Johnson Free colored male between ages of 24 and 35 * Free colored female between ages of 24 and 35 * Free colored male between ages of 55 and 100 1845 N. Y. Census 1850 U. S. Census - Town of Wheatfield Name Age Race Occupation Place of Origin Value of Real Estate Owned Over 29 Cannot Read/Write John Johonson [sic] 53 B Farmer New York $480 Hannah Johnson 47 B - New York Henry Hall 20 B - Virginia 1 Joseph Polly 38 B - Canada Ann Polly 30 W/M - Ireland 1 Stephen Smith 35 B - - 1855 N. Y. Census Name Age Sex Color Rel. to Head Origin Married Resident for Occupation Persons of color not taxed Over 21 Cannot Read/Write Owners of land John Johnson 52 M B Washington 1 25 yrs Farmer 1 1 1 Hannah Johnson 47 F " Wife Albany 1 " 1 1 Henry Hall 65 M " Maryland " Farmer 1 1 1860 U. S. Census - Town of Wheatfield From Bille. Johnsons' ages about about 10 years younger than expected. Name Age Sex Color Origin John Johnson (Jonson) 52 M B NY Hanna Johnson 46 F " " Isaac Davis 61 M " " Clarissa Davis 42 F " " Dennis Colens 1 M " " 1865 N. Y. Census Dwg. material Dwg. value Name Age Sex Color Rel. to Head Origin Married Times Married Occupation Persons of color not taxed Over 21 Cannot Read/Write Owners of land Frame $100 John Johnson 58 M B Washington 1 1 Farmer Hannah Johnson 49 F " Wife Albany 1 1 1870 U. S. Census 1875 N.Y. Census 1880 U. S. Census - Town of Wheatfield From Bille. Name Color Sex Age Origin, Mother, Father Occupation Widowed Divorced Johnson, Hanna B F 59 N. York, Prussian, Prussian 1 Bohling [Behring], Frederick W M 66 Prussian, Prussian, Prussian Laborer 1 Agriculture Schedule on 1880 U. S. Census Name of the person who conducts this farm: Johnson Hanna Owner? 1 Acres of land — Improved Tilled, including fallow and grass in rotation (whether pasture or meadow): 10 acres Permanent meadows, permanent pasture, orchards, vineyards: 0 Acres of land — Unimproved Woodland and forest: 2 acres Other unimproved, including “old fields” not growing wood: 0 Farm values — Of farm, including land, fences, and buildings : $480 Farm values — Of farming implements and machinery: $0 Farm values — Of live stock: $36 Fences: $0 Labor — Weeks hired labor in 1850 upon farm (and dairy) excluding house-work: 15 Labor — Amount paid for wages for farm labor during 1879, including value of board: $0 Value of all farm production in 1879: $60 Grass lands — Mown: 1 acre Grass lands — Not mown: 5 acres Grass lands — Hay: 1 acre
John and Hanna Johnson on 1865 New York State census.png
John Chadwick in court over cow with Old Man Behring, over alleged barn arson with Oldenburgh, articles (Tonawanda Herald, 1883-1885).jpg
Franklin Warren v John Chadwick, charges defendant owes money and used property for two years, summary (Niagara County Supreme Court, 1876).png
New trial in Johnson-Fonner property dispute scheduled at Lockport, article (Tonawanda Herald, 1878-04-18).jpeg
Jesse F. Locke land sale to John Chadwick (1853-11-02).jpg
Chadwick pays $500 for a 31-acre strip in center of Lot 10 from its north boundary to Tonawanda Creek (not Johnsons land)
Johnsons quit-claim their 12 acres to John Chadwick for $1, indenture and deed, transcription (New York Land Records, 1873-07-08).jpg
John Johnson to Chadwick (Index of Deeds) 161:78 (Lot 10) 12 Acres - On July 8, 1873, John and Hannah sell the land to Chadwick for $1. AI summary: In July 1873 Johnson quit-claims to Chadwick everything he has—both his right to the land itself and his right to force Fonner to give him a deed—by signing over his interest for a nominal one dollar. A “quit-claim” deed is simply a way to say, “I’m giving you whatever I have in this property,” without any promise that I actually own it free and clear. In this case, Johnson isn’t selling new land; he’s handing off his existing claim—the referee’s finding that he paid for and should get the twelve acres—so that Chadwick can be the one to finish the job of recording the decree, demanding the deed, and taking possession. Johnson uses this tactic for a few clear reasons. First, Chadwick and Sherman have been fronting the court costs, handling filings, and managing the lawsuit for months; they’re the ones with both the money and the drive to push it all the way through. By quit-claiming, Johnson makes Chadwick the official party in charge—Chadwick no longer has to rely on Johnson’s health, schedule, or wallet to see the case to its end. Second, a quit-claim avoids a tangle if Johnson were to die or fall ill: rather than Chadwick having to open an estate or ask a judge’s permission to take over Johnson’s side of the suit, the deed instantly transfers Johnson’s rights to Chadwick, who can step in unchallenged. Third, because the deed recites only “one dollar” as consideration, it meets the simple recording requirements without any big cash transfer. It’s a cheap, straightforward way to make sure the courthouse records show Chadwick as the holder of both the lawsuit and the land interest. Once that quit-claim is on file, Chadwick holds both the “equitable title” (the right a court already said Johnson had) and the “legal title” power to demand and record the final deed from Fonner or the sheriff. In short, this move bundles up all of Johnson’s hard-won rights and hands them to the person best positioned to convert them into a clear, recorded ownership. AI Transcription: This Indenture, made this Eighth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventy-three, BETWEEN John Johnson and Hannah Johnson his wife, of the Town of Wheatfield, Niagara County, New York, of the first part, and John Chadwick of the same place, of the second part, WITNESSETH, that the said party of the first part, in consideration of the sum of One Dollar and other valuable consideration to them in hand paid by said party of the second part (the receipt whereof is hereby confessed and acknowledged), have bargained, sold, remised, and QUIT-CLAIMED, and by these presents do bargain, sell, remise and quit-claim unto the said party of the second part and to his heirs and assigns, ALL that tract or parcel of land situate in the Town of Wheatfield, Niagara County and State of New York, and being the northwest part of Lot number ten, Township number twelve and Range eight of the Holland Purchase (so called), bounded and described as follows: “Commencing at the northwest corner of said Lot Ten; thence running east along the north line of said lot ten chains; thence south on a line parallel to the west line of said lot at a distance of ten chains east therefrom about twelve chains and forty links to the present line fence; thence west along the line of said fence and parallel with the north line of said lot to the west line of said lot ten chains; thence north along the west line of said lot about twelve chains and forty links to the place of beginning, containing twelve acres more or less.” Whereas an action was commenced in the Supreme Court of the State of New York wherein John Chadwick, John Johnson and David A. Sherman were plaintiffs and John Fonner and Elizabeth Fonner his wife, Pamelia P. Houghton, Miriam D. Ransom, Mary A. Rowland and William Rowland her husband, and Jesse F. Locke were defendants, to compel a specific performance, among other things, on the part of said defendants to convey the title of the above-described premises to the said John Johnson; and which cause was at issue and duly tried and a Report made by the Referee therein; among other things the Referee found that said John Johnson is entitled to a judgment in this action that the defendants John Fonner and Elizabeth his wife execute and deliver to said Johnson, at his expense, a deed of the premises described in the complaint (the same above described) with a covenant against all liens created by them or either of them; and that the defendants Pamelia P. Houghton, Miriam D. Ransom, Mary A. Rowland and William Rowland her husband, and John Fonner and his said wife, Jesse F. Locke, be forever barred and foreclosed of all interest and title in said lands described in the complaint between them and the said John Johnson, his heirs and assigns; and also that the said John Johnson recover his costs of this action against the defendants John Fonner, Elizabeth Fonner, Pamelia P. Houghton, Miriam D. Ransom and Jesse F. Locke. And now for value received, I John Johnson hereby sell, assign, set over and transfer to the said John Chadwick, his heirs and assigns, the above-mentioned decree with the judgment to be entered in said action, with all my title and interest in and to the same, as fully as I could do the same with full right to execute the judgment and enforce the same in my name or otherwise as he shall deem advisable; and I hereby grant and convey to said Chadwick, his heirs and assigns, all the lands described in said Report of said Referee, with full right to occupy and possess the same and to bring all suits and actions of every nature to enforce and maintain his right, title and interest in and to the premises above conveyed, as fully as I could do before this conveyance. In witness whereof the party of the first part has hereunto set his hand and seal the day and year first above written. *John Johnson* (Seal) State of New York, Niagara County, ss.: On this 23rd day of November in the year one thousand eight hundred and fifty-four, before me the subscriber personally appeared John Johnson, to me known to be the same person described in and who executed the within instrument, and acknowledged that he executed the same. ``` Recorded November 24th 1854 at 8 P.M. L. S. Payne, Clerk J. Huntley, Justice of the Peace ```
Johnson 12-acre farm and house in 1852, approximate location on modern streets (1852).png
John and Hannah Johnson appearances in U. S. Census (Bille, 1840, 1850, 1860, 1880).jpg
Compiled by Dan Bille. Scribbling by me.
Hannah Johnson, obituary (Tonawanda Enterprise, 1883-06-23).jpeg
Chadwick v Fonner, summary (The New York Supplement, 1896).png
Chadwick called untrustworthy by many Tonawanda heavies in unrelated trial v Hewett, plaintiff (Supreme Court of New York, 1894).png
Payne, Felton Kent and others say defendant Chadwick's reputation for veracity is "not good." Defendant does summon a few middlng defenders. B. L. Rand called into testify on falsification of a receipt.
Fonner v. Johnson, Fonner keeps title (69 N.Y. 404, 1879-11-11).png
AI summary: "Fonner actually first took title in **April 1868**, when he bought the 62‐acre tract (including the 12 acres in dispute) from Locke’s heirs. After Johnson’s suit went to a referee and the referee ordered Fonner to convey those 12 acres, Fonner and his wife executed (and Buffalo recorded) a “Deed—Covenant against Grantor” in favor of John Chadwick on **July 21, 1874** (recorded February 1876). That 1874 deed was the practical upshot of the referee’s report—but when the Court of Appeals **reversed** Chadwick v. Fonner in **November 1879**, it effectively wiped out the order that had compelled the 1874 conveyance, leaving Fonner with the title again." "Once the Court of Appeals reversed in November 1879, that was the final word in New York. There was no higher state court to which Chadwick could take the case a second time. And since the fight turned purely on New York evidentiary and property rules, there was no federal question to carry it up to the U.S. Supreme Court either. The 1879 reversal therefore stands as the last appellate decision." Regarding missing record of land conveyance back to Fonner: "What the Court of Appeals did in November 1879 was vacate the referee’s order (and the judgment) that had forced that conveyance, effectively saying in law that Chadwick never got title. To reflect that reversal on the land‐records you’d normally see one of two follow-on filings: - A Reconveyance Deed: Chadwick (or his estate) would execute and record a deed back to Fonner (often a simple quitclaim) after the reversal, putting the world on notice that the 1874 transfer was a dead letter. - Docketing the Appellate Judgment: The county clerk would docket the Court of Appeals’ mandate or a certificate of reversal in the judgment docket—linking that decision to the original 1876 judgment roll—so that anyone researching would see the trial-court judgment was reversed. If you still only see the 1874 deed and no later reconveyance or docketed certificate, it just means no one took the housekeeping step of recording the flip-back instrument, but under New York law the reversal itself stripped Chadwick of title and restored it to Fonner, despite what the bare deed index shows."
John Fonner to John Chadwick, Deed Covenant against Grantor (NY Land Records, Vol.141, p.547-8, 1874-07-25).jpg
*AI Transcription* John Fonner To John Chadwick Deed. Covenant against Grantor This Indenture made the twenty first day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventy four Between John Fonner and Elizabeth Fonner his wife of the Town of Wheatfield Niagara County New York of the first part and John Chadwick of the Town of Wheatfield Niagara County New York of the second part Witnesseth That the said party of the first part for and in consideration of a judgment entered in the office of the Clerk of Niagara County directing the Conveyance of the within described property to the defendant have granted bargained sold remised released aliened conveyed and confirmed and by these presents do grant bargain sell remise release alien convey and confirm unto the said party of the second part and to his heirs and assigns forever All that certain piece or parcel of land situate in the Town of Wheatfield in the County of Niagara and State of New York and being the north east part of Lot number ten Township number twelve and range eighth of the Holland Purchase (so called) bounded and described as follows, Commencing at the north west corner of said lot number ten; Thence running east along the north line of said lot ten chains; Thence south on a line parallel to the west line of said lot and at the distance of two chains east thence along twelve chains and forty links to the present line fence, and parallel with the north line of said lot, to the west line of said lot ten chains; Thence north along the west line of said lot about twelve chains and forty links to the place of beginning containing twelve acres more or less. Together with all and singular the tenements, hereditaments and appurtenances thereto belonging, or in anywise appertaining and the reversion and reversions, remainder and remainders, rents, issues and profits thereof, and all the estate, right, title, interest, dower and right of dower, property, possession, claim and demand whatsoever as well in law as in equity of the said party of the first part, in and to the above described premises and every part and parcel thereof with the appurtenances, To have and to hold the said premises as above described with the appurtenances unto the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns forever. And the said John Fonner for himself his heirs executors and administrators doth hereby covenant promise and agree to and with the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns that he has not made done committed executed or suffered any act or acts, thing or things whatsoever whereby or by means whereof the above mentioned and described premises or any part or parcel thereof now are or at any time hereafter shall or may be impeached charged or encumbered in any manner or way whatsoever. In Witness Whereof The parties of the first part have hereunto set their hands and seals the day and year first above written. Signed, Sealed and delivered in presence of John Fonner (seal) Elizabeth Fonner (seal) State of New York Erie County ss.} On the twenty first day of July 1874 before me the sub- scriber appeared John Fonner and Elizabeth Fonner his wife and severally acknowl- edged that they executed the within instrument; and the said Elizabeth Fonner on a private examination apart from her husband acknowledged that she executed the same freely and without any fear or compulsion of her husband. And I further certify that I know the persons who made the said acknowledgment to be the persons described in and who executed the within instrument. Geo T. Quimby Notary Public Erie County State of New York Erie County Clerk’s Office ss.} I George L. Remington, Clerk of said County and of the Courts thereof, the same being Courts of Record, do hereby certify that Geo. T. Quimby whose name is subscribed to the proof or acknowledgment of the annexed instrument in writing was at the time of taking such proof or ack- nowledgment a Notary Public in and for the said County duly commissioned, sworn and authorized to take the same; and I further certify that I am well ac- quainted with his handwriting and verily believe that the signature to the said proof or acknowledgment is genuine; and further that the annexed instrument is executed and acknowledged according to the laws of the State of New York. In Testimony Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said County at Buffalo this 25th day of July A.D. 1874 Geo L. Remington Jr., Dep. Clerk Received February 16th 1876 at 12 M. Ed H. Warto, Clerk
Chadwick, Johnson and Sherman v. Fonner reversed, new trial granted (Reports of Cases Decided in the Court of Appeals of the State of New York Volume 69, 1878, 1877-04-24).jpg
AI: "In which the Court reversed the General Term decision printed at 6 Hun 543 and granted a new trial on the ground that Johnson’s own testimony about paying $30/acre was inadmissible under the Code’s dead-man rule. In other words, this is the official published decision showing Albany’s first reversal of the Fourth Department’s affirmance—remanding the case for retrial because of the improper hearsay question."
Chadwick, Johnson and Sherman v. Fonner, report (Reports of Cases Heard and Determined in the Supreme Court of New York, Vol. 13, 1876)
This appellate decision [later reversed?] upholds a referee judgment confirming that Johnson held an equitable title (a court-recognized right to the benefits of ownership despite the missing deed) to the contested twelve acres. It reasoned that Locke’s own spoken admission of payment during his lifetime created a trust in Johnson’s favor, and Johnson’s open, ongoing possession put any later buyer, like Fonner, on notice of that claim. [Johnson seems to have given some inadmissible testimony] *AI Transcription* JOHN CHADWICK, RESPONDENT, v. JOHN FONNER AND OTHERS, APPELLANTS. Parol declaration of vendor of land—against whom admitted. Parol declarations of the vendor of land, showing that the vendee has paid the purchase-price thereof, are admissible in an action by or against him, or by or against any other person deriving title from or under him, with notice of the vendee’s claim. Actual possession of land by a vendee is, in law, equivalent to actual notice of his claim, whatever that may be. 544 CHADWICK v. FONNER. Fourth Department, January Term, 1876. Appeal from a judgment in favor of the plaintiff, entered upon the report of a referee. This action was commenced by John Johnson, John Chadwick and David Sherman against John Fonner and wife, and the heirs of Jesse F. Locke, deceased, to compel them to convey to the plaintiff John Johnson, twelve acres of land in the town of Wheatfield, in the county of Niagara, which land, it was claimed by the plaintiffs, Jesse F. Locke had sold to said Johnson in his lifetime, and had received the purchase-price thereof, but had executed and delivered no conveyance thereof. Jesse F. Locke died in the spring of 1861. The defendant John Fonner purchased the premises, with other land, sixty-two acres in all, of the heirs of Jesse F. Locke, by deed dated in April, 1868, paying for this whole farm sixty dollars per acre. At the time of this purchase Johnson was in possession of the premises to recover which this action was brought, claiming to own the same, by virtue of an agreement made by him with the said Jesse F. Locke. Upon the trial of this action, evidence was given on behalf of Johnson to establish his right to the said twelve acres of land, consisting of the admissions of Jesse F. Locke made in his lifetime and after Johnson had gone into the possession of the land. Johnson died soon after the entry of judgment herein, and this action was revived and continued in the name of John Chadwick, the present plaintiff. Lewis & Gurney, for the appellants. William S. Farnell, for the respondent. GILBERT J.: That the parol declarations of a vendor of land are admissible in an action by or against him, to prove that the vendee has paid the purchase-money, is an elementary principle in the law of evidence. The declarations of Locke, therefore, would have been competent against him. He died intestate. The land in controversy descended to his heirs, and they conveyed it to Fonner. Those declarations being evidence against Locke in his lifetime, they are, since his decease, evidence against all who have derived title through or under him, with notice of the vendee’s claim. It is very true that parol declarations are insufficient to destroy a man’s title to lands. But when made by a vendor against his interest they are sufficient to fasten a trust upon the legal title in favor of a vendee, as against the grantees of such deceased vendor, immediate or remote who took the title with notice of the claim of the vendee, and the actual possession of the land by the vendee is, in law, equivalent to actual notice of such claim, whatever it may be. Declarations of that kind do not affect the operation of deeds by virtue of which the legal title is held, but serve merely to show that the vendee has an equitable right to maintain his possession, and that in equity, he has a beneficial interest in the land, notwithstanding the legal title is vested in another. They affect the interests of a grantee of the vendor, or of his heirs, precisely in the manner that they would have affected the interest of the vendor himself if they had been proved in an action to which he was a party, and they have no other or different effect. If uncontradicted they are, and ought to be, sufficient to defeat an ejectment against, or to compel a conveyance to, the vendee in either case. The authorities on this subject are numerous, and they have established the principle stated. (Gr. Ev., §§ 147, 154, 189; Jackson v. Bard, 4 Johns., 230; Padgett v. Lawrence, 10 Paige, 170; Spaulding v. Hallenbeck, 35 N. Y., 204; Schenck v. Warner, 37 Barb., 258.) We are of opinion that the referee erred in allowing the question put to the witness Chadwick, as to the declarations of Johnson, regarding the character of his possession. But the answer of the witness was hardly responsive to the question, and as no motion to strike out the objectionable testimony was made, the objection to the question may well be deemed waived. We are satisfied that it did not affect the result. The referee does not allude to this testimony in his opinion, and an examination of the whole case shows that it could have had no material influence in its determination. It had no legitimate effect, except upon the question of fact involved, and there was abundant evidence without it to sustain the referee’s conclusions upon that question. When that is the case, the error becomes harmless, and it affords no just ground for reversing the judgment. (Vandevoort v. Gould, 36 N. Y., 644.) -- Cite the case either way: Official series: Chadwick v. Fonner, 36 N.Y. 544 (1876) Reporter series: Chadwick v. Fonner, 13 Hun 544 (1876)
Approximate Johnson farm and home location within Lot 10, with AI rendition of farmhouse.jpg
Niagara County, map (D. H. Burr, 1829).jpg
Author Burr, David H., 1803-1875 Date 1829 Short Title Niagara County. Publisher D.H. Burr Publisher Location New York Type Atlas Map Obj Height cm 41 Obj Width cm 43 Scale 1 151,000 Note Hand col. engraved map. Relief shown by hachures. Shows flouring mills, factories, forges, saw mills, churches, parcels, etc. Includes "Remarks" concerning land subdivision in county. Prime meridian: Washington, D.C. State/Province New York County Niagara County (N.Y.) Full Title Map of the County of Niagara. By David H. Burr. Published by the Surveyor General, pursuant to an Act of the Legislature. Entered according to an Act of Congress Jany. 5th. 1829 by David H. Burr of the State of New York. Engd. by Rawdon, Clark & Co., Albany & Rawdon, Wright & Co., N. York. List No 0103.048 Page No No. 49 Series No 52 Engraver or Printer Rawdon, Clark & Co. Engraver or Printer Rawdon, Wright & Co. Publication Author Burr, David H., 1803-1875 Pub Date 1829 Pub Title An atlas of the State of New York, containing a map of the State and of the several counties ... under the superintendance & direction of Simeon DeWitt, Surveyor General, pursuant to an Act of the Legislature, and also the physical geography of the State & of the several counties & statistical tables of the same, by David H. Burr. New York, published by David H. Burr. 1829. Engravd. by Rawdon, Clark & Co. Albany & Rawdon, Wright & Co., New York. Pub Reference Phillips, 2206; Nestler, H. A bibliography of New York State communities 3d ed., p. 107; Creek, A.B. Maps of the Genesee Valley & Finger Lakes Region 1776-1950, p. 62; LeGear. Atlases of the United States, L2396; Ristow, W.W. American maps and mapmakers, Pub Note This atlas is the second atlas published in the 19th century of one of the individual states in the U.S., preceded only by Mill's Atlas of South Carolina, issued in 1825, and followed closely, also in 1829, by Greenleaf's Atlas of the State of Maine (Ristow, p96). This copy is the 1st edition, second state, actually published in 1832. Howard Welsh rescued this copy which was obviously about to be broken up and disbound. When we acquired it from his estate it was completely disbound; subsequently we had it rebound and restored. The Map of the City and County of New York is dated 2nd. ed., 1832 ; Haskell 725 lists this as appearing in the 1829 ed. of the Atlas. Therefore, we can presume that there are two 1829 eds., the first state with this map dated 1829 (Haskell 721) and the second state which is this copy with the 1832 map (Haskell 725). The Map of New York State is also dated 1832. All other maps are dated 1829. Full hand painted color. Bound in half leather marbled paper covered boards with "New York Atlas" stamped in gilt on the spine. Pub List No 0103.000 Pub Type State Atlas Pub Maps 51 Pub Height cm 56 Pub Width cm 45 Image No 0103048 Download 1 Full Image Download in MrSID Format Download 2 GeoViewer for JP2 and SID files Authors Burr, David H., 1803-1875 Collection Rumsey Collection
Hannah Johnson 1880 Census agricultural schedule.jpg
Hannah Johnson, obituary (Lockport Daily Journal, 1883-06-23).jpg
Foreclosure sale in Lot 6, John Chadwick v others, article (Lockport USJ, 1870-05-31.png
Chadwick-Fonner, notice (Lockport Daily Journal & Courier, 1869-12-20).png
Jesse F. Locke surrogate court documents, transcripts (1861-1865).doc
Jesse F. Locke dies March 12, 1861, without a will. The land John and Hannah Johnson have been living on is believed to be his. His old pal Lewis S. Payne becomes first administrator of Locke's estate. Both Payne and Chadwick appear to have claims against the estate. In 1864 Locke's daughter Miriam and a Mr. Sherman are appointed administrators (Sherman will be plaintiff w Johnson & Chadwick in later ation. against Fonners). * April 1, 1861 – Letters of Administration * October 14, 1861 – Citation on Payne’s Claim * Jan 11, 1862 - Claim of said Lewis S. Payne against estate allowed ($210.03) * February 5, 1864 – Renunciation of Administration * October 14, 1861 – Citation for Payne’s claim * Feb 1864 - Chadwick appears * Feb 15 1864 - Daughter Miriam D. Locke administratix (Payne out) * March 4, 1866 – Settlement order * March 4, 1866 – Payne's settlement petition ---- **April 1, 1861 – Letters of Administration** > In the matter of the Administration of the goods, chattels and credits of Jesse F. Locke, deceased. > > The People of the State of New‑York, To Lewis S. Payne of Wheatfield, Niagara County, New‑York: > > Whereas Jesse F. Locke late of the town of Wheatfield in the County of Niagara and State of New‑York, deceased, as is alleged, died intestate; having, while living, and at the time of his death, goods, chattels and credits within this State, and you being entitled thereto, and having first taken and subscribed an oath faithfully and honestly to discharge the duties of such Administrator according to law; and having with your sureties executed a Bond to us, for the faithful performance of those duties; which oath and bond are duly filed in the Surrogate’s Office of our said County of Niagara; we do by these presents, Depute, Constitute and Appoint you Administrator of all and singular the goods, chattels and credits which were of the said Jesse F. Locke, deceased; and do hereby grant unto you, the said Lewis S. Payne, full power, by these presents, to fully administer upon his Personal Estate, and to do and perform all duties and acts relating thereto which by the laws of this State are required of Administrators appointed by the Surrogate, and the performance of which in the administration of the goods, chattels and credits aforesaid, may be necessary for the due, faithful, and proper administration thereof. > > In Witness Whereof we have caused the seal of office of our Surrogate to be hereunto affixed. > Witness, George W. Bowen, Surrogate of the said County, at Lockport, this first day of April A.D. 1861. > > Recorded April 1, 1861 – G.W. Bowen, Surrogate --- **October 14, 1861 – Citation on Payne’s Claim** > At a Surrogate’s Court held at the Surrogate’s Office in Lockport in and for the County of Niagara on the 14th day of October 1861. > Present, G. W. Bowen, Surrogate. > > In the matter of the Estate of Jesse F. Locke, dec’d > > On reading and filing the petition of Lewis S. Payne, administrator \&c of Jesse F. Locke dec’d, from which it appears that said Payne has a demand against the Estate of said Jesse F. Locke, dec’d, > > It is ordered that a citation issue to the next of kin & all others interested in the estate of said dec’d requiring them to appear in this Court on the 18th day of November 1861 then & there to attend the proving of the demand of said Lewis S. Payne, such administrator, & that the same be served 15 days before the return thereof. > > G. W. Bowen > Surrogate --- Jan 11, 1862 At a Surrogate’s Court held at the Surrogate’s Office in Lockport in and for the County of Niagara on the 11th day of January 1862 Present, G. W. Bowen, Surrogate In the matter of the claim of Lewis S. Payne, administrator of the goods, chattels & credits of Jesse F. Locke, deceased, against the Estate of said dec’d: Lewis S. Payne, the administrator of the goods, chattels & credits which were of Jesse F. Locke, late of Wheatfield, Niagara County, deceased, having heretofore presented his petition setting forth that the estate of said deceased was indebted to him in a considerable amount, and praying that the same might be proved & allowed, and a citation having been issued & served upon the widow & next of kin of said deceased, and the said Lewis S. Payne having appeared upon the return of said citation, and having from time to time to which the said matter was adjourned, produced evidence in support of his said claim; It is therefore ordered & adjudged, and the Surrogate aforesaid doth order & adjudge, pursuant to the provisions of the statutes in such case made & provided, that said Lewis S. Payne has duly proved his claim against the estate of said deceased to the amount in the aggregate of three hundred seventy‑six dollars & eighty‑nine cents; that the said estate have an offset thereto to the amount of one hundred sixty‑seven dollars & eighty‑six cents, leaving a balance over & above all offsets of two hundred & ten dollars & three cents, this day due & owing said Lewis S. Payne by said estate; and that the said claim of said Lewis S. Payne against said estate be & the same hereby is allowed in said sum of two hundred & ten dollars & three cents over & above all offsets of said estate. G. W. Bowen Surrogate ----- **February 5 & 15, 1864 – Renunciation of Administration** > County of Niagara. Surrogate’s Court > In the matter of the Administration of the goods, chattels & credits by Administrators of Jesse F. Locke, deceased. > > I, Mary Ann Locke, widow of Jesse F. Locke, deceased, of Wheatfield in the County of Niagara and State of New‑York, and we, Jesse Fayette Locke and Permelia P. Locke, children and heirs‑at‑law of said deceased who died intestate, do hereby renounce all right and claim to administration of the goods, chattels and credits of the said intestate late administered by Lewis S. Payne, and do hereby ask to have George W. Sherman of Wheatfield in this County and State aforesaid appointed Administrator, and Miriam D. Locke administratrix, of the same place, of said goods, chattels and credits of said intestate. > > Witness our hands and seal this \_\_ day of February 1864. > > Mary Ann Locke (L.S.) > Permelia P. Locke (L.S.) by Miriam her Guardian > Jesse F. Locke (L.S.) by Charles E. Hill his Guardian > > State of New‑York } > County of Niagara ss. > On this 5th day of February 1864, before me personally came Mary Ann Locke, Permelia P. Locke by Miriam her Guardian, and Charles E. Hill as Guardian of Jesse F. Locke, to me known to be the same persons described in and who executed the foregoing instrument, and acknowledged that they executed the same. > > Lewis Swain, Justice of the Peace > > Recorded Feb. 15 1864 – H.D. Scripture, Surrogate --- At a Surrogate’s Court held at the Surrogate’s Office at Lockport in and for the County of Niagara on the 15th day of February 1864. Present, H. D. Scripture, Surrogate. In the matter of the administration of the goods, chattels & credits which were of Jesse F. Locke, deceased. On reading and filing the petition of Miriam D. Locke, the daughter of Jesse F. Locke, late of Wheatfield in the County of Niagara, deceased, praying that administration of all and singular the goods, chattels and credits which were of said deceased, be granted to herself and George W. Sherman to be joined with her; and that a bond with two competent sureties, as required by law, having been filed, and the oath of office duly taken and subscribed by said Miriam D. Locke and George W. Sherman, who are in all respects competent to act as administrators of the personal estate of said deceased: It is ORDERED that the prayer of the petition herein be granted, and that Letters of Administration issue to said Miriam D. Locke and George W. Sherman. And it is further ordered, that Asa W. C. Gregory and Franklin Warren of said County, two disinterested persons, be, and they are hereby appointed appraisers to estimate and appraise the personal property of said deceased. H. D. Scripture Surrogate **March 4, 1866 – Sherman & Locke Administrators’ Final Settlement Order** > 508 > > It is ordered that a citation issue to all persons interested in the estate of said deceased, requiring them to appear in this Court on the second day of April 1866 at ten (10) o’clock A.M. and attend to the final settlement of such accounts. > > H.D. Scripture, Surrogate > > At a Surrogate’s Court held at the City of Lockport in and for Niagara County on the 4th day of March A.D. 1866. > Present, Henry D. Scripture, Surrogate. > In the matter of the settlement of the accounts of Geo. W. Sherman and Miriam D. Locke, Administrators & c. of Jesse F. Locke, deceased. > On reading and filing the petition of George W. Sherman and Miriam D. Locke, Administrators & Administratrix of the goods, chattels and credits of Jesse F. Locke, late of the town of Wheatfield, deceased, asking for a settlement of their accounts as such Administrators and Administratrix, > It is ordered that a citation issue to all persons interested in the estate of said deceased, requiring them to appear in this Court on the second day of April 1866 at ten o’clock A.M. to attend the settlement of such accounts. > H.D. Scripture > Surrogate --- --- ### 1. February 8, 1864 At a Surrogate’s Court held at the Surrogate’s Office at Lockport in and for Niagara County on the eighth day of February 1864. Present, H. D. Scripture, Surrogate. **In the matter of the settlement of the accounts of Lewis S. Payne, Administrator of the goods, chattels & credits of Jesse F. Locke, dec’d.** On reading and filing the petition of said Administrator of the goods, chattels & credits of said Jesse F. Locke, dec’d, late of Niagara County, praying for relief, it is ordered that a citation issue to the next of kin & all others interested in the estate of said dec’d, requiring them to appear in this Court on the eighteenth day of February 1864 at ten o’clock A.M., then and there to give new security in the usual form for the faithful discharge of his duties as such Administrator. H. D. Scripture Surrogate --- ### 2. February 15, 1864 (a) At a Surrogate’s Court held at the Surrogate’s Office at Lockport on the fifteenth day of February 1864. Present, H. D. Scripture, Surrogate. **In the matter of the Letters of Lewis S. Payne, Administrator \&c. of Jesse F. Locke, dec’d.** Letters of Administration of the goods and chattels of Jesse F. Locke, deceased, having been heretofore granted to Lewis S. Payne of Wheatfield by the Surrogate of Niagara County, and John Chadwick, one of the sureties of said Administrator, having filed his petition in this Court on the eighth day of February 1864 asking for release as such surety… *(the remainder of this petition‑recital is filed in the case packet)* --- ### 3. February 15, 1864 (b) … and a citation having been duly issued by the Surrogate of Niagara County in pursuance of an order made therein requiring said Administrator to appear in this Court on the fifteenth day of February 1864 at ten o’clock A.M., then and there to give new security in the usual form for the faithful discharge of his duties as such Administrator. Now, on reading and filing due proof of the service of said citation in the manner provided by law, and the said Administrator failing to appear pursuant to the direction of said citation, it is therefore ordered that the Letters of Administration of all and singular the goods, chattels and credits of said Jesse F. Locke, deceased, heretofore granted and issued by the Surrogate of Niagara County bearing date on the first day of April 1861, be, and the same hereby are, revoked; and all authority of said Lewis S. Payne as such Administrator are thereupon to cease. H. D. Scripture Surrogate --- **March 4, 1866 – Payne’s Petition for Final Settlement** > At a Surrogate’s Court held at the City of Lockport in and for Niagara County on the 4th day of March A.D. 1866. > Present, Henry D. Scripture, Surrogate. > In the matter of the final settlement of the accounts of Lewis S. Payne, Administrator of the Estate of Jesse F. Locke, deceased. > On reading and filing the petition of Lewis S. Payne, Administrator of the goods, chattels and credits of Jesse F. Locke, late of the town of Wheatfield, deceased, asking for a final settlement of his accounts as such Administrator, and it appearing that more than eighteen months have elapsed since his appointment… --- To get the **meat and potatoes** of Jesse F. Locke’s estate—i.e. what he owned, who made claims against it, and who ultimately got what—you’ll need to pull the **supporting papers** that the Surrogate’s Court docket only references. Here’s exactly what to ask for and where to look: --- ### 1. Identify the Estate File Number Each estate had a file or “case jacket” number. Look at the docket entries (e.g. the January 1862 claim, the February 1864 administration, the March 1866 final‐settlement citations) for a file or docket number in the margin. If none is obvious, note Jesse F. Locke’s name + 1861–1866 and ask the clerk to pull the entire “Jesse F. Locke, dec’d” folder. --- ### 2. Request the **Inventory & Appraisal** After Letters of Administration are granted, the administrators had to file an **Inventory and Appraisement** of all goods, chattels, credits, and real estate. That document will list every piece of personal property (livestock, household goods, notes receivable, etc.) and which appraiser valued it. * **Where to find:** * “Inventory Book” or “Appraisement Book” in Niagara County Surrogate’s Office. * Or inside the estate’s case packet, often near the front. --- ### 3. Pull the **Claims Register** or **Account Books** Administrators then pay debts and distribute whatever’s left. At the end they file: * **Account of Administration** (detailed receipts and disbursements) * **Claims Register** (claims filed by creditors or heirs) * **Final Distribution Plan** (who got which assets or sums of money) * **Where to find:** * “Account Book” or “Claims Book” volumes in the court archives. * Within the case packet under “Administration Account” or “Final Distribution.” --- ### 4. Look for **Petitions & Orders** on Distribution Sometimes there’s a separate “Distribution Petition” if heirs petitioned for specific property, or the court issued a “Decree of Distribution” spelling out exactly who got what. * **Where to find:** * In the case jacket, toward the back. * Or indexed under “Distribution Decrees.” --- ### 5. Check the **Estate Index** The clerk’s office often keeps an **alphabetical index** to wills and administrations. That will confirm file numbers and may even list the pages or book references for inventories, accounts, and decrees. --- ### 6. How to Ask the Clerk When you go to the **Niagara County Surrogate’s Office (or Archives)**, say something like: > “I’d like the complete estate file for Jesse F. Locke, dec’d, Wheatfield. I need the Inventory & Appraisement, the Claims Register or Account of Administration, and any final Decree of Distribution. His Letters of Administration were issued April 1, 1861; new administrators appointed Feb 15, 1864; and final‐settlement citations in March 1866.” They’ll pull the case packet, and you can photocopy or photograph: 1. **Inventory & Appraisement** 2. **Account of Administration** (receipts/disbursements) 3. **Claims Register** (who claimed against the estate) 4. **Decree/Petition of Distribution** (how it was split) --- Once you have those, you’ll see the **line‑by‑line** breakdown of every asset, every creditor or heir who filed a claim, and exactly how much or what property each person received.
Wurlitzer Centennial, articles (Tonawanda News, 1956-08-25).pdf
A special edition of the Tonawanda News with dozens of articles and photos pertaining to the city's most famous business.
Wurlitzer Factory, North Tonawanda, abandoned upper floors, photo gallery (Dennis Reed Jr., 2023).gal
Wurlitzer Centennial Souvenir photo album, excerpts (1956).gal
Map of Niagara River or streights between the lakes Erie and Ontario, map (1765).jpg
"with the islands, falls, and rapids therein, as also the carrying place with its road and distance.'
Map of the western part of the state of New York, 1823, detail (Vance, NYPL).jpg
The War of 1812 on the Niagara Frontier, book (Babcock, 1927).pdf
Moss Island and the Hermit of the Falls, excerpt (pp68-69, Burke's Illustrated Guide to Niagara Falls, 1855).jpg
Niagara Falls Power Company - Information for Visitors, book (1907).pdf
The Niagara Frontier- Embracing Sketches of its Early History, and Indian, French and English Local Names, book (c.1865).pdf
Gillie Machine Co., illustrated ad (Tonawanda City Directory, 1903).jpg
Richardson Boat company, map detail (1951).jpg
Thompson Ice Cream Co., photo ad, (N. Tonawanda City Directory, 1907).jpg
Thomas Music House, 84 Webster, ad (N. Tonawanda City Directory, 1907).jpg
The World's Best Musical Instruments, stamped F. R. Wurlitzer (1916).jpeg
Rand Visible Index catalog, Rand Company (c1914).pdf
Polish pupils taken care of after Polish school destroyed by fire, article (Tonawanda News, 1919-03-25.jpg
Old-timers' mistrust and jealousies blocked merger of Tonawandas, article (Tonawanda NEWS, 1948-07-21).pdf
Niagara Hotel and the unreliable stagecoach, article excerpt, transcribed (1833-09).jpg
AI transcription: THE FALLS OF NIAGARA. EXTRACT TO THE EDITOR, DATED Niagara Falls, Sept. —, 1833. Having arrived at Tonawanda about 1 o’clock, on the morning of the 16th August, 1833, we left the packet boat, and set off for the Falls of Niagara, about 11 miles distant. We were undecided at first how to travel; a stage, it was said, would leave Tonawanda for the Falls, by which we were advised to go, as the best and most expeditious conveyance.—We accordingly roused the inmates of the Niagara Hotel, in order to ascertain at what hour the jumbling vehicle would start. We were informed that that depended on the number of passengers; but that if there was a load, the coach would leave the hotel at 8, A. M. Time being of importance, we determined to walk, so that by arriving at the Falls sooner, we might have more leisure, for the inspection of that interesting phenomenon. We left Tonawanda between one and two o’clock. There is, I believe, nothing remarkable in this place, except that it was originally a settlement of the Senecas, and now a small village on the creek of that name, at which the Erie Canal issues, and where canal (not canailles) voyageurs, who wish to visit the Falls, leave the boats. Our road, a mere trackway, lay through a wood, and for some way along the Niagara Creek. The night was clear, cool, and moonlight; the wide waters on our left reflected her beams upon us so strongly, that the opposite wood appeared veiled in gloomy darkness. After a walk of six miles, we crossed the Cayuga creek, where our approach to the Falls was first indicated by the sound of a distant roar. The way was lonely, and
Irate farmers drive gypsies from stronghold, article (Tonawanda News, 1905-08-07).jpg
Bridge nightmare comes true, article (Tonawanda News, 1961-03-13).jpg
Adamite Abrasive Co., letterhead (1914).jpg
Genesee Lands with County Subdivisions, map (1829?).jpg
City of North Tonawanda, map (N. Tonawanda City Directory, 1903).jpg
Tonawanda Power Company, bill (1929).jpg
Payne defeated, Republicans won at North Tonawanda, article (Daily Cataract, 1898-03-09).jpg
On guard! Buffalo's 65th guards Tonawanda Island from striking Poles, article (Buffalo News, 1893-06-19).pdf
Niagara River houseboat, Sour Spring Grove, Grand Island, photo (1897).jpg
New (Felton) High School dedicated, article (Tonawanda News, 1901-09-06).jpg
N. Tonawanda, Lockport have similar histories, article (Clarence O. Lewis, Lockport Union Sun and Journal, 1957-05-24.jpg
Martinsville asks police protection, article (Tonawanda News, 1907-06-04).jpg
Man with badge, cabinet card (Torrey, c.1900).jpg
Harry Dragan, 206 East Ave., Sacco-Vanzetti Defense Committee (1927-09-22).jpg
Gypsies at Gratwick, article (Tonawanda News, 1907-10-05).jpg
Former J & T Charlton, fire house location on Thompson near tracks (Google satellite).jpg
Former Artizan, Christmas colors, photo (Dennis Reed Jr., 2025-12-25).jpg
Fire Chief Fred Knight praised, Old Log Cabin, article (Tonawanda News, 1934-04-18).jpg
Supervisor J. T. Schmidt moves brick house from Oliver to his property, article (Tonawanda News, 1908-04-28).jpg
J. T. Schmidt victim of murderous attack, article (Tonawanda News, 1913-12-08).jpg
J. T. Schmidt dies at home, article (Tonawanda News, 1918-03-11).jpg
J. T. Schmidt's Cafe, Oliver Street, postcard (c.1900).jpg
Heart failure claims Mrs. Augusta Schnmidt, article (Tonawanda News, 1918-04-13).jpg
The Schooner Tonawanda, postcard (c1890).jpeg
The Schooner Tonawanda, photo (c1890).png
The Lumber War - Views of Tonawanda Island, article (Buffalo Illustrated Express, 1893-06-25).pdf
Stella Perew, 46 Sweeney, obit (Tonawanda News, 1947-03-08).jpg
Skidoo, kids, curfew whistle, article (Tonawanda News, 1907-06-01).jpg
Scheme to fill in Little River, 1907, article (Tonawanda News, 1981-10-08).jpg
Scanlan claims State Ditch rights, article (Albany Argus, 1891-06-18).pdf
Rose Coal, 217 Oliver, illustrated ad (Tonawanda News, 1935-04-23).jpg
Postcard from Addie, front (1917-09-20).jpg
Girl, R.J. Clench, cabinet card (c1880).jpg
Early barges in the river, North Tonawanda, cabinet card (c.1890).jpg
Thatch Roofs - Creo-Dipt excerpted catalog (1919).jpg