Sherburne New York

The Sherburne Union School was established in 1847 by merging local districts, with its first meeting held that April. Early trustees included Benjamin Skinner and Andrus Benedict, and the first principal was Catharine Tuttle. The Union Free School was formed in 1866, leading to a new brick schoolhouse constructed between 1870 and 1871. By 1879, the school reported significant financial details, including student attendance and the value of its library and facilities, highlighting its growth and community support over the years.

Sherburne is a charming village in New York, characterized by its shaded streets and substantial sidewalks. Located near the Chenango River, it is approximately 10.5 miles from Norwich and five miles from Earlville. The village, incorporated in 1830, hosts six churches, a Union Free School, numerous shops, and various manufacturing facilities, contributing to a population of 902. Village governance includes elected officials such as trustees and a president, reflecting a structured community organization as of May 1879.

The first town meeting of Sherburne, New York, took place on April 1, 1795, at Timothy Hatch’s residence, where Isaac Foote was elected as moderator. Key officials included Orsamus Holmes as Town Clerk and several assessors, constables, and overseers. A list of town officers from 1880-81 was later provided, showcasing the evolution of local governance. Additionally, a 1798 juror list was preserved, indicating early settlement and participation in civic duties. The historical continuity of leadership roles is documented through various supervisors and clerks over the years.

Upon his death on March 27, 1875, Nelson C. Rexford bequeathed the falls property on Mad Brook to the town of Sherburne, which officially named it Rexford Falls on February 15, 1876. The falls, approximately seventy-five feet high, create a scenic gorge with steep banks. A notable feature at the base is a sulphur spring, reputed for its healing properties. In 1876, the Sherburne Spring House was established nearby to accommodate visitors seeking the springs’ benefits and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

The postmastership of Sherburne, New York, began with James Elmore in January 1801. He was succeeded by Sylvester Scoville in 1805, followed by Harry N. Fargo until 1836. Subsequent postmasters included Alexander Holmes, William C. White, and Edmund Shaw, among others. Elijah S. Lyman served until 1853, after which Edmund Shaw returned briefly before Levi N. Smith took over. The current postmaster, Charles A. Fuller, has held the position since February 25, 1867.

The history of medicine in Sherburne, New York, began with Dr. D. Lacy, followed by Dr. Asa White, who practiced from 1796 until his death in 1819. Other early physicians included Samuel Guthrie, Israel Farrell, and James Sheffield. By the mid-19th century, practitioners such as Elijah S. Lyman and Ira C. Owen emerged, establishing a continued medical presence in the community. The lineage of Sherburne’s medical professionals reflects growing local healthcare expertise, contributing significantly to the town’s development.

The mercantile history of Sherburne, New York, began with James Elmore, the first merchant and postmaster, around 1801. Following him, Zaccheus W. Elmore, Elias Babcock, and Joshua Pratt contributed to the early trading landscape. By the mid-1800s, various merchants emerged, including Harry N. Fargo, Isaac Cushman, and Archibald Whitford, each establishing diverse businesses. The town has witnessed a continuous evolution of commerce, with successors like C. L. Easton and others continuing to shape its economic fabric into the late 19th century.

During the Civil War, Sherburne, New York, contributed 236 soldiers and 20 seamen to aid in the rebellion’s suppression, with various ranks among them, including 1 Assistant Surgeon and multiple officers. Enlistments varied in length, with the majority serving three years. The soldiers were allocated across numerous regiments. The financial incentives provided included various town and county bounties, reflecting the town’s efforts to meet its military obligations despite a lack of detailed legislative records.

The Sherburne National Bank was founded on May 4, 1865, with a capital of $100,000, all paid in. Key officials included President Joshua Pratt and Vice-President Walter Elsbre. The bank started operations on July 4, 1865, after completing its capital stock payments. It consistently issued dividends, beginning with 3% in 1866, and later maintaining 5% semiannually. By October 2, 1879, the bank’s resources totaled $344,848.79, reflecting its growth and stability in the community of Sherburne, New York.

Sherburne, New York, features a rich history of hospitality beginning with Dr. Asa White’s tavern at the Presbyterian church site. Samuel Stebbins established the first tavern on the Medbury House site in 1803, evolving into today’s hotel under U. T. Harvey. William L. Daniels acquired ownership in the late 1870s. L. R. Hopson constructed the Hopson House during the Chenango Canal’s development (1834-6), now managed by W. W. Gillson. The American House, built in 1872 by James Hinman, was transformed into a hotel by L. D. Hopson in 1876.

The legal history of Sherburne, New York, began prominently with Roswell Judson, who practiced from 1835 and served as county judge. Other notable lawyers included Ira P. Barnes and George P. Avery in the mid-1800s. The later generations saw practitioners like Delos L. Atkyns, Charles A. Fuller, Stephen Holden, and Robert A. Kutschbach, each contributing to the local legal landscape from the 1860s onwards, establishing a tradition of legal service that continues in the present day.

H. Ross & Co.’s Steam Cotton Mills, established in 1863, remains under the ownership of Hector Ross’s heirs, employing about 100 workers. The factory produces 46,000 yards of cotton cloth weekly. Other notable manufacturers include Walter F. Blanchard’s sash and door factory, C. Hart & Sons Pottery, and S.W. Lobdell & Co.’s flouring mills. The region also boasts a significant cheese and butter production operation by White, Smith & Co., and several grist mills, highlighting the diverse industrial landscape of Sherburne, New York.

Sherburne, formed from Paris in 1795, initially included Smyrna until 1808. The town’s name is likely derived from a popular tune among early settlers. Positioned on the county’s northern border, Sherburne features varied elevations and is intersected by the Chenango River. The area, primarily agrarian, supports dairying and hop cultivation with five creameries and two butter factories. By 1875, the population was 2,940, with a robust educational system comprising numerous schools and libraries, reflecting the town’s early commitment to education and community development.

The Sherburne Fire Department began with its first meeting on October 12, 1850, at Linus R. Hopson’s residence, where a constitutional framework was established. After disbanding and reformation several times in 1858 and 1859, a new engine house was constructed in 1868. The Torrent Hose Company was formed in 1875, followed by the establishment of Torrent Engine Co. No. 1, No. 2, and Active Hose Co. No. 1. The department currently operates with two engines, two hose carts, and 1,000 feet of hose.

The early settlers of Sherburne, New York, comprised a group from Kent, Connecticut, who relocated to the Chenango Valley post-Revolutionary War. Led by figures like Deacon Nathaniel Gray and Abraham Raymond, they established homes and infrastructure, including the first sawmill and gristmill. Alongside archaeological findings indicating prior occupancy, their settlement flourished, increasing to 1,282 residents within seven years. The settlers engaged in agriculture, built essential roads, and reported various community developments that shaped Sherburne’s early landscape.