Wendell Family Obituaries
The Family of Jacob and Magdelena Snyder Wendell
This large collection of obituaries of the descendants of Jacob Wendell and his first wife Magdelena Snyder was graciously contributed by Charlott Wells Jones!
INTRODUCTION
"I have worked genealogy just for the fun of it since I was a child, but my Wendell family is by far the MOST interesting.
My third great-grandfather was Jacob Wendell. He married first Magdelena Snyder, who was the daughter of Johannes Snyder/Schneider and Margritha Countryman. They had a total of 12 children. I have fairly good information on all of the twelve. Magdelena died, and Jacob Wendell then married a young widow named Nancy Gould. Her maiden name was Fox, and I call her "Elusive Nancy," as I have yet to place her with any of the Fox families of that area. I have two good possibilities, but need that one little link in the chain. She brought into their marriage two babies. That made a total of 14. Jacob and Nancy in turn had 8 of their own, for the grand total of 22. My great-great grandmother was the last of that 22 total.
Nancy died when my gr-gr-grandmother was 10 and Jacob when she was 14. She spent the rest of her growing up years living with various brothers and sisters. The first family tended to remain basically in the Herkimer, Montgomery, Otsego area of New York. With the exception of two from the latter family, the group tended to make the western migration.
Jacob Wendell had been a shoemaker and his children, especially his boys, as girls in that era got married and had babies, stepped up in the world. They were ministers, teachers, lawyers, one of a doctor, etc. A very close knit family it seems, very caring about each other, especially the younger ones, as you figure when they were growing up the ones of the first family were reaching maturity and striking out on their own.
Like I said, this is an interesting somewhat complicated family. Wendell's are very interlaced with other families in the Herkimer/Montgomery County area. The other family names or at least some of them, of which I figure you are familiar with are Herdman, Wright, Ward, Diefendorf, Failing, Countryman, Walrath. They all get tangled back and forth."
Charlott Wells Jones
April 2004
"Benjamin Wendell was the son of Jacob Wendell and Magdelena Snyder. Benjamin Wendell was a half brother to my great-great grandmother. I do not know for certain which newspaper this obit was in, as I have nothing showing what the paper was. My guess would be that it would have been either Fort Plain, Little Falls or possibly Albany."
Colonel Benjamin Wendell
It is our sad duty to record the death of this most estimable man. He was born in Frey's Bush, Sept. 23d, 1808, and died at his late residence near Sprout Brook, April 11th, 1888.
He was colonel of militia in 1835-40, and went with his regiment to the Helderburghs to assist in suppressing the anti-renters. In 1860 he was elected justice of the peace, and held the office for three terms. It was through his efforts that the post office at Sprout Brook was secured, and we was its first postmaster.
He was a member and steward of the M. E. church at Sprout Brook for over fifty years. Over fifty years of service in the Master's vanguard--what a record! A soldier of the cross for over half a century! Surely this fact is a most consoling legacy to leave his children. He leaves a widow, whom he married nearly sixty years ago, and ten children, three daughters and seven sons.
He was a self-made man. Starting in life a poor man, and with only the education which the common schools of those days could furnish, he determined to climb onward and upward--God helping him at every step of the way. His standard was a high one, but his courage grew stronger with every battle fought. By untiring energy and unswerving perseverance he managed to banish poverty, and the sunshine of affluence began to cheer him with its rays. He reared and educated his large family, accumulated a comfortable property, and he himself became a remarkably intelligent man. He was an ardent Christian, a very liberal supporter of the church, and a generous and loving husband and father. He never smoked and never touch liquor of any form--in fact his habits were irreproachable.
Surely when a good man like this dies we are all mourners, and yet we do rejoice, for "Blessed are the dead, who die in the Lord." Blessed, truly blessed, are those who live in the Lord, as did this honored man. He deicated his life, in its whole flow, to the Lord's service.
Colonel Wendell was the last of four brothers, John I., Jacob, and Joans being the only three. His seven sons are as follows: Oscar, George, John D., Fred F., James, Albert and Charles. His three daughters are Mrs. George H. Yorden, of Argusville; Mrs. James McFee, of Ames; and Libby who lives at the old homestead and who has devoted herself to care for "the old folks at home" with a beautiful unselfishness.
We are not personally acquainted with all the children but we feel justifed in saying of those whom we do know, that the "father's mantle" has fallen upon them.
OBITUARY
Mrs. Benjamin Wendell
Sarah Fox, widow of the late Col. Benjamin Wendell, died at her home near Sprout Brook, in the early hours of Sunday morning, Nov. 27, in her eighty-third year. She was born not far from Sprout Brook in the town of Canajoharie, and was the daughter of George and Elizabeth Fox, being a descendent on her mother's side from the Bells, a Scotch family who came to this country during the Revolution. She was the fifth child in a family of twelve children, six of whom survive her. About sixty years ago, she was united in marriage with Mr. Wendell; eleven children were born to them, ten of whom with fourteen grand children and one great grand child survive to mourn her loss -- Oscar of Binghamton, Albert of Albany, Mrs. George Yerdon of Argusville, George and Mrs. James McFee of Ames, Elizabeth and Charles of Sprout Brook, Judge John D., Fred F. and James M. of Fort Plain.
Since the death of her husband which occurred in April 1888, she has been in failing health, her constant companion and attendant having been her oldest daughter, the one who is known to all the family as sister Libbie, certainly the most devoted and self sacrificing daughter that a mother could have, one who will always be held in tenderest affection by all her brothers and sisters, for her devotion to the aged mother.
The funeral was held at her late residence on Wednesday, at 11 a.m., the seven sons acting as bearers. Rev. Mr. Worrick pastor of the Sprout Brook M. E. church preached a very appropriate sermon from the text, "A good name is better than precious ointment and the day of death than the day of one's birth." Dwelling on the thought that the mother's long Christian life of more than sixty years which had been spent with and for her children, in moulding their characters, teaching them by example and precept the better way, and how to overcome the evil by which all are surrounded in this world, was like the precious ointment, filling the home with a rich perfume, whose sweetness would last long after she was laid to rest.
She possessed in a marked degree that peculiar mother-trait, self-sacrificing devotion, not only to her children but to her neighbors and friends. Much of the strength of an unusually strong constitution was spent in anxious work for the welfare and comfort of her large family of children. So controlling was this quality of her mind and heart that even during the last days and hours of her life, while enduring the pain of her last sickness, her thoughts were not of herself, but of her friends and neighbors. Truly her children may rise up and call her blessed. For more than three score years she was a consistent member of the Sprout Brook M. E. church. What a legacy to leave her children. The father's death a little more than four years ago was the first break in the family circle for many years. It falls to the lot of but few families to be so long spared to each other. It has been the delight of the sons and daughters to go to the old home, especially during these later years while their mother was feeble. They were always greeted with a warm welcome from the invalid in her chair. The chair is vacant now and they will sadly miss the welcome. We sincerely hope that the mantle of the Christian parents will fall upon the sons and daughters, and that they, in the different homes, will carry out and on the blessed truths they were taught in early life. And though the meetings at the old homestead will never be the same as when the father and mother were there, may the children, feel there is one more in the Heavenly home to bid them welcome there when their life work is done.
Fort Plain, June 19 --George Wendell, father of Deputy State Comptroller James A. Wendell and Parkes Wendell of the State engineer's department at Albany, died at the country home here today. Besides his sons, Mr. Wendell is survived by a widow, five brothers and three sisters. This Wendell family, one of the oldest in the central part of New York State, has long been prominent in politics.
(George Wendell was son of Benjamin Wendell and Sarah "Sally" Fox.)
OBITUARY
Oscar Wendell died Thursday at the Wendell homestead at Fort Plain after and illness of several weeks. He was born in Buel July 13, 1834, and was a son of Colonel Benjamin Wendell and Sarah Fox Wendell. When 21 he was married to Sarah Jane Flint, who died two years later. A few years subsequently Mr. Wendell married Henrietta Flint. When a young man he entered the employ of the D. & H. railroad as mail clerk, which position he held for 20 years, giving that up to enter the hardware business in Binghamton. Mr. Wendell retired from business in 1894 and has since resided at the Wendell homestead at Fort Plain. Mr. Wendell was a 32d. degree Mason in Unadilla lodge F. and A. M. He is survived by his wife, who is seriously ill. Five brothers and two sisters, Judge John D. Wendell, F.F. Wendell, James Wendell and Charles E. Wendell of Fort Plain, Albert Wendell of Albany, and Mrs. James. A. McFee of Ames and Miss Libbie Wendell of Fort Plain, as well as several nieces and nephews, among whom are Deputy State comptroller James A. Wendell and Parks D. Wendell of Albany and C. B. Wendell of this city. The funeral will be held at the house Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock, followed by a service at the Catherine Nellis Memorial chapel in the Fort Plain cemetery, where interment will be made in the family plot. (Albany and Fort Plain papers please Copy.)
THE LATE OSCAR WENDELL HAD LIVED RETIRED LIFE AT FORT PLAIN
Fort Plain, July 23 -- The funeral of Oscar Wendell, who died recently at his home in the town of Minden, was held from the Catherine Nellis Memorial Chapel in this village. Rev. M. Hogel, of the Sprout Brook M.E. Church, officiating. The many floral tributes attested the esteem in which the deceased was held. There were a number of out-of town residents present at the services. Mr. Wendell was born at Buel, July 13, 1834, a son of Col. Benjamin and Sarah Fox Wendell. When a young man he entered the employment of the D. & H. railroad as a mail clerk, which position he held for 20 years, giving it up to enter hardware business in Binghamton. Mr. Wendell retired from business and since that time has resided at the Wendell homestad in this village. He was a 32nd degree Mason and was a Master Mason by Unadilla Lodge A. and M.
There survive his wife, who is seriously ill: five brothers, former County Judge John D. Wendell, F. F. Wendell, James Wendell and Charles E. Wendell of this village, and Albert Wendell, Albany; and two sisters, Mrs. James A. McFee of Ames, and Miss Libbie Wendell of Fort Plain. In addition there are several nieces and nephews among whom are Deputy State Comptroller, James A. Wendell and Parks Wendell, of Albany, and C. B. Wendell of Amsterdam.
VICTIM OF FIRE
Tragic fate of Mrs. John D. Wendell Saddened Community.
It is difficult to understand the dispensation of providence that took the life of a venerable, kindly and gentle woman as Mrs. John D. Wendell, in such a tragic matter last Saturday -- a manner that emphasizes again that the ways of Deity are beyond human ken.
Shortly after the noon hour on the day mentioned Orley H. Roof, Eugene Smith and Grand Dillenback, proceeding up Division street on their way to dinner, had their attention attracted by cries for help from the side entrance to the Wendell home on South street. Rushing to the spot they found Judge Wendell on the porch with his hands badly burned, and dense smoke issuing from the door opening into the dining room, which Mr. Roof was the first to enter. Here he found Mrs. Wendell in a semi-reclining position beside an upholstered chair which was ablaze and from which she had evidently sank to the floor. Fortunately Mr. Root was gloved at the time and able to pick up the body, from which the clothing was mostly burned, carry it to the hall and place it on the floor. Here the victim of the distressing accident gave a gasp and expired. Meantime, Messrs. Smith and Dillenback had extinguised the flames which were devouring rugs, spreads and furniture in the dining room.
How the flames were communicated to Mrs. Wendell's clothing will probably never be known, but it is assumed that the flowing ends of a loose scarf she was accustomed to wear about her shoulders may have become ignited from the kitchen range and have been the cause.
The judge, who is nearly blind, was sitting in the dining room when his wife screamed and came rushing into the room from the kitchen, with her clothing ablaze. As quickly as possible he grabbed a rug from the floor and wrapped it about her, nearly extinguishing the flames, which, however spread to the floor and furniture. In doing this his hands were severely burned. Realizing his inability to cope with the situation without aid he then rushed to the door and cried for help, with the results stated.
Dr. C. E. Slater was called to attend to the burns upon his hands and arms, which are quite severe. As would be expected from one of his age the judge is prostrate by the shock. He is now being cared for by a trained nurse.
The life of this venerable couple, both aged 84, was ideal and they seemed to grow more dependent upon each other with the passing years. They were childless and from choice had lived alone in their handsome home, corner Mohawk and South streets, since the death of Mrs. Wendell's father, nearly half a century ago. She was the daughter of Thomas and Miranda King and was born at Salt Springville, coming to Fort Plain early in life. Here she became universally respected and one of our best known and best liked women.She was active in the work of the Methodist church, of which she was a member from childhood, and in everything for the betterment of Fort Plain. She was also a member of the Saturday Afternoon Study class and enjoying keeping up with its work. Since the judge's eyesight failed she has been his constant companion and the blow to him after 60 years of close association, could not be more severe. He has the sincerest sympathy of all our people in his sad affliction. Other survivors are two nephews, Charles Helmer of Buffalo and Frank Helmer of Troy.
The funeral was held from the late home Monday afternoon. Rev. W. C. Heisler officiating. Interment to be made in the Fort Plain cemetery.
James M. Wendell
After having been in feeble health for several months, James M. Wendell, aged 79 died at the residence of his daughter, Mrs. E.C. Norton, with whom he made his home, on Friday afternoon, Feb. 22. He was the son of the late Benjamin and Sarah Wendell of Sprout Brook and for many years was a respected resident of this village. Upon the completion of the West Shore railroad he assumed the position of baggagement, a position which he faithfully filled for 26 years. Deceased was a member of Mohawk Valley lodge, No. 66, K. of P. The survivors are one daughter, Mrs. E. C. Norton: three brothers, Albert Wendell of Albany, Judge John D. and Fred F. Wendell of this village; two sisters, Miss. Libbie Wendell of Sprout Brook and Mrs. James McFee of Ames, and one grandson, Francis Norton of Fort Plain. The funeral was held from the home on Monday at 2:30. Rev. W. C. Heisler officiating. The bearers were past chancellors of the K. of P. lodge. The body was placed in the vault in the Fort Plain cemetery.
(James Monroe Wendell was born August 1843 and died 6 February 1924.)
CHARLES E. WENDELL
Third of Family Called by Death Within Ten Days.
Following quickly upon the tragic end of his sister-in-law, Mrs. John D. Wendell, on February 16, and the death of his brother, James M. Wendell, last Friday, came the announcement Tuesday evening that Charles W. Wendell of Sprout Brook, aged 73, had been found dead on the floor in the bathroom at the home of his brother, Judge John D. Wendell, where he was staying temporarily. Deceased had been afflicted with heart and kidney trouble for some time, but his death was most unexpected as he had been upon the streets of the village and about the house during the day, and appeared to be feeling unusually well. Consequently his sudden demise was a shock to the many friends he had there about the town, as he was a well liked, companionable man with a wide circle of acquaintances.
Deceased was one of 10 children of the late Benjamin and Sarah Fox Wendell of Sprout Brook and the youngest of seven sons. Nearly his whole life was spent on the homestead farm at Sprout Brook, where he was born. His wife, who was Myra A. Furman, died 29 years ago.
His survivors are four sons, John 2d of Albany, Benjamin of Amsterdam, Carl of Gloverville and Walter of Ames: three daughters, Mrs. D. R. Shoemaker of Fort Plain, Mrs. Irving Price of Cobleskill and Mrs. Wilbur Flint of Sprout Brook; three brothers Judge John D. and Fred F. Wendell of Fort Plain and Albert Wendell of Albany; two sisters, Miss Elizabeth Wendell of Sprout Brook and Mrs. James McFee of Ames.
The funeral will be held Friday at 2:30 in the Catharine Nellis Memorial chapel.Burial later in the Fort Plain cemetery.
(Charles Edward Wendell was born 8 October 1850 in Sprout Brook and died 6 February 1924.)
(This is another obit for Charles E. Wendell that appeared in another newspaper of the area.)
THIRD DEATH IN WENDELL FAMILY
Charles E. Wendell Succumbs Unexpectedly in Home of Brother At Fort Plain.
Fort Plain. Feb. 22 -- Charles E. Wendell, aged 73, died suddenly at 9:30 o'clock Tuesday evening at the home of his brother Judge John D. Wendell, on Mohawk street, in this village, where had come to attend the funeral of his brother, James Wendell, which was held Monday. This was the third death in the family within ten days, the first being that of Mrs. John D. Wendell, who was fatally burned in her home on the 16th. Mr. Wendell, whose home was at Sprout Brook, although he spent considerable time with his son, Charles Benjamin of Amsterdam, had not been in good health for two years, but had been feeling unusually well for a few days preceding his death. Tuesday afternoon he was out for a walk with his daughter-in-law of Amsterdam and expressed himself as feeling especially good. While he was in the bathroom in the evening members of the household heard a fall there, and upon investigation found him unconscious. Dr. W. C. Fox was called, but upon his arrival he announced Mr. Wendell was beyond medical aid and ascribed death as due to heart disease, where doubtless that been hastened by the two deaths which had lately occurred in the family circle.
Mr. Wendell was born in Sprout Brook, a son of Colonel Benjamin and Sarah Fox Wendell, and spent most of his life there, where he was long engaged in farming. He married Miss Myra A. Furmin, who died 29 years ago. There survive three daughters, Mrs. D. R. Shoewmaker of Fort Plain, Mrs. Iving Price of Cobbleskill and Mrs. Walter Flint of Sprout Brook; four sons, Charles Benjamin of Amsterdam, Carl of Gloverville, Walter of Ames and John D., 2d of Albany; two sisters, Miss Libbie Wendell and Mrs. James McFee of Ames, three brothers, Judge John D. Wendell of Fort Plain, Albert Wendell of Albany and Fred F. Wendell of Fort Plain, who is passing the winter in Florida, as well as several grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Judge Wendell is in a serious conditon, ------ to the infirmities of his age, the burns which he sustained in hi---- wife's fatal accident and shock at attending the death of his wife and two brothers.
The funeral of Charles E. Wendell will take place Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Catherine Nellis Memorial chapel, the Rev. Ja----- Madison of the Sprout Brook Methodist church officiating. The remains will be placed in the in Fort Plain cemetery.
(This is a third article in reference to Charles E. Wendell)
Funeral of Charles E. Wendell
The funeral of Charles E. Wendell, who died at the home of his brother, Judge John D. Wendell, at Fort Plain, took place Friday. Owing to the illness of Judge Wendell, the funeral service was held at the Catherine Nellis Memorial chapel. The Rev. James Madison of the Sprout Brook M. E. church, assisted by the Rev. W. C. Heizler of the M. E. church of Fort Plain, officiated. They paid eloquent tribute to Mr. Wendell and referred to the records at Sprout Brook where the Wendell family has worshipped for the past 100 years.
There was a wealth of floral tribute, among which was a large basket of Easter lilies and American Beauty roses from the Elks' club of Schenectady, a wreath of roses from friends at Schenectady, a wreath of roses and orchids from the Gloversvill City Nation bank, a floral piece of cala lilies from Queen Mary lodge 172, of Amsterdam; basket of roses and orchids from the Aid Society of M. E. church; spray of 73 Easter lilies from the Hanna family, Amsterdam and a spray of 73 roses from Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Finlay and Mr. and Mrs. James Chambers of Amsterdam. Among those who attended from out of town were the Rev. James A McFee of Ames, Parks D. Wendell, of the state engineering department and wife, of Albany; Mr. and Mrs. Moses Hampton, Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Finlay of Amsterdam and Mrs. S. A. Finkle of Cobleskill. The remains were placed in the vault of the Fort Plain cemetery, burial to take place in the spring. The sons of Mr. Wendell were bearers.
Elizabeth Wendell
Elizabeth Wendell, a former resident of Fort Plain, died at the home of her sister, Mrs. James McFee, at Ames on Saturday after a short illness.
A prayer service was conducted from the home of her sister Mrs. James Mcfee, at Ames at 1 o'clock Tuesday and the funeral services were held from the Catharine Nellis Memorial chapel at 2 o'clock, the Rev. Dr. Charles L Leonard of the Methodist Church officiating.
Miss Wendell was born in the town of Minden. She was the daughter of Benjamin and Sarah Fox Wendell. She was a member of a large family, the only survivors of which are the sister mentioned and one brother Fred Fox Wendell of Deland, Fla. She was a sister of the late Judge John D. Wendell, and James and Charles Wendell of Fort Plain.
She was a member of the Methodist church of Sprout Brook and was the first president of its Women's Foreign Missionary society.
Daily Democrat and Recorder, Amsterdam N. Y., Thursday, May 24, 1934
FRED F. FOX DIES AT DELAND
FORMER PROMINENT ATTORNEY SUCCUMS AT HIS FLORIDA RESIDENCE.
FORT PLAIN, May 24, --- A telegram was recieved by Mrs. E. C. Norton states that Fred F. Wendell died yesterday at his home in Deland, Florida. The deceased was at one time one of Fort Plain's, most prominent citizens. He was born at Sprout Brook, in the town of Minden, his parent's being the late Benjamin and Sarah Fox Wendell. For many years he practiced law with his brother, the late Hon. John D. Wendell, formerly the Montgomery County judge, and for many years was tax attorney for the New York Central Railroad, is office being located in the Weller building on Mohawk Street.
In politics he was a staunch Republican, althought he never sought public office. He was a member of the Methodist Church and established the F. F. Wendell Bible Class, which still bears his name. He was at one time a director of the Fort Plain First National Bank.
For the past 40 years Mr. Wendell had spent the winter months in Florida, but about 9 years ago he and his family moved to Florida to make their permanent home there. He is the last of a family of ten. The survivors are his wife and one daughter, Miss. Irma Wendell, besides several nieces and nephews. It is expected that the body will be brought to this village for interment.
Mina Flint, aged three years, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur Flint, of Sprout Brook, died at the home of her parents Sunday evening of diptheria after an illness of a week. She is survived by her parents and one brother, Demmon.A prayer service was held at the home this afternoon, the Rev. Mr. Addison of Sprout Brook officiating. The body was brought to this village and placed in the Catherine Nellis Memorial valult and burial will be made in the Fort Plain cemetery in the spring.
(Mina Etta Flint was the daughter of Demmon Wilbur Flint and Merrian Arlene Wendell.Her grandfather was Charles Edward Wendell and her great-grandfather was Benjamin Wendell. She was born in 1919 and died 4 March 1924.)
WENDELL, Sept 23, 1884, JACOB WENDELL, aged 79 years and 20 days. Funeral services Wednesday 3 PM at 184 Elm street, and Thursday 11 AM at the M. E. Church, Fort Plain.
(probably from an Albany, New York newspaper)
JACOB WENDELL, father of the Hon N. D. Wendell and Mr. J. Irving Wendell of this city, died at the residence of his son-in-law Professor H. L. Harter, No.184 Elm Street at an early hour this morning. Mr. Wendell was born in Montgomery county in the state in the year 1805, and was at the time of his death in the 80th year of his age. He resided in the village of Fort Plain and its immediate vicinity during his entire life up to the year 1872, when he came to this city and found congenial emplyment for his leisure hours in the office of his son, N. E. Wendell, Esq., at that time Treasurer of Albany county. He remained in this office during not only Mr. Wendell's two terms but also during the term of his successor, Mr. Henry Kelly, who made him his deputy. Since the close of Mr. Kelly's term he has engaged in no business whatsoever. In his native country Mr. Wendell for the greater portion of his business life, devoted himself to the profession of law, and was for many times Justice of the Peace. His extensive acquaintances, his geniality of disposition, the thorough integrity of his character, made him one of the most influential citizens of his village. In politics he was in early years a Whig, and since the formation of the Republican party an ardent Republican. His public spirit always made him somewhat conspicious in the stirring events of his times. During the famous anti-rent disturbances more than forty years ago, he came to Albany as Colonel of a regiment of militia under General Averill of St. Johnsville. This gave him the title by which he was known for many years in the Mohawk Valley -- "Colonel Wendell." Mr. Wendell always had hosts of devoted friends. He was open-handed and generous to a fault. With natural abilities of a high order he combined versatility of talent and readiness of resource in a remarkable degree. His friendships were hearty and sincere, and his loss will be keenly felt by a large circle outside of his own immediate family. He was, during his entire life, one of the most faithful supporters of the Methodist Episcopal church. Although of late years, until quite recently, not a communicant, no member of the church was more regular in attendance or more interested in the public services of the church. His estimable companion, who died in 1882, was a devoted memeber of this church. At the time of his death Mr. Wendell was a member of the Hudson Avenue M. E. Church of this city. The illness which terminated in his death was protracted and painful, but was borne by him with patience. He closed an honorable, useful life on earth, trusting in the merit of his Savior for immortal life in the world to come. Six children, three sons and three daughters, survive him.
(Jacob Wendell was the son of Jacob Wendell and Magdelena Snyder. His wife was Margaret Failing, daughter of Capt. John Failing and Maria Timmerman/Zimmerman.)
Albany, New York, Evening Journal April 1882
Suddenly Friday morning, the 28th Inst., at her residence, #184 Elm St., Mrs. Margaret Wendell, wife of Jacob Wendell, in the 72nd year of her age.
Funeral service at her late residence at 4 o'clock on Sunday next. Remains to Fort Plain for interment.
Sudden death of Mrs. Jacob Wendell
The death of Mrs. Jacob Wendell, which occurred at an early hour this morning, was startling in its suddeness, and brings additional sorrow to a large circle of friends, already suffering from (recent bereavement ?). She retired in her usual health last night, after spending the evening socially with friends at her home. This morning she awoke her husband by heavy breathing at about half-past five o'clock and was the past consciousness and died in a few minutes after.
Mrs. Wendell was a woman of symmetry of character, and through a long life was a most exemplary and faithful Christian. Her cheerful and truthful life afforded abundant proof that all t___________ whom she had believed. She was a member of the Hudson M. E. Church for years past, joining it immediately upon her removal to this city.
She was the mother of Hon. N. D. Wendell and J. Irving Wendell Esq. of this city and mother of Edgar Wendell of Troy. Her two daughters are Mrs. Jonathan (Luthera) Allen of New York City and Mrs. Prof. H. L. (Aurilia) Harter of Potsdam, N.Y. Mrs. and Mrs. Wendell have been residents of Albany for several years, moving hither from Fort Plain, where they were well known and highly respected. During their residence in Albany they have won may friends to whom the sad event will be a hard blow. The funeral will take place Sunday afternoon from her late residence, hence the remains will be taken to For Plain for internment.
Note: (Margaret Wendell was born Margaret Failing on 14 November 1810 in Minden, Montgomery County, New York to Capt. John Failing and his wife Maria Timmerman.)
6/12/07 From 1st 50 years of Cazadovia Seminary --- Semi-Centennial Jubilee -- 1926
HENRY L. HARTER
Born in Warren, Herkimer Co., New York, Nov. 18, 1834.
Student in 1852. Studies continued at Union College. Graduated in 1858. Received title of A.B. in 1858, and title of A.M. in 1861. Professor of mathematics and language at Fort Plain Seminary for 5 years. Principal of Walrath Academy 1 year. Professor at Genesee Weslyn Seminary (Lima) for 4 years. Teacher of mathematics and ancient history Potsdam State Normal School for 6 and 1/2 years. At present vice principal. Residence is Potsdam.
AURELIA WENDELL
Born Fort Plain, New York, June 7, 1839. Continued studies at Fort Plain Seminary. Has held positions at Walrath Academy as Preceptress and teacher of math at Fort Plain.
Married July 24, 1860 to Henry L. Harter of Fort Plain.
(Henry Lawrence Harter was the son of Henry H. Harter and Julia Ann Gray. Aurelia Wendell was the daughter of Jacob Wendell and Margaret Failing.)
Mrs. Sarah A Wright, of Little Falls. Feb. 14
Death from old age and heart failure, was the last representative of an older generation of old settlers in the Mohawk valley. She was born at Frey's Bush Nov. 26, 1819, being the daughter of Jacob Wendell Sr. A number of years later her parents removed to Fort Plain, where in 1840 she was united to the late Samuel W. Wright. Mr. and Mrs. Wright removed to Little Falls in 1844, where she has since resided, and had been ministered to in her declining years at the home of her son, Fernando W. Wright. Deceased is survived by two half-sisters in Wasco, Oregon.
(Sarah Ann (Wendell) Wright's mother was Magdelena Snyder. The two half sisters were: Sally Louisa (Wendell) Marcellus and Imilda Leona (Wendell) Berrian.)
Rev. John I. Wendell. Born at Minden, died at Frey's Bush, June 19, 1873. 70 years + he became a minister at 30 of ME Church. Also postmaster, Coroner, and County Superintendent of the Poor.
(John I. Wendell was the son of Jacob Wendell and Magdelena Snyder.)
MRS. (REV) JOHN I. WENDELL - she was Nancy Diefendorf died at Frey's Bush, age 67, May 2, 1871
daughter of John Diefendorf, grandaughter of John Jacob Diefendorf, brother of Rev. B. I.
Diefendorf Mother of 13, 8 survive her, 1 daughter, 7 sons.
Daughter: Mrs. James A. Diefendorf of Frey's Bush
Sons: Emory
John
Rufus
Harvey
Arthur
Charles
Harmon
Obits of Harvey Wendell family
(Harvey Wendell was the son of Rev. John I. Wendell and Nancy Diefendorf. He lived most of his adult life in Albany, New York at 14 Jay Street. He was a partner in the piano firm of Marshall and Wendell at 542 Broadway, in Albany)
HARVEY WENDELL Member of the piano manufacturing firm of Marshall & Wendell. Layman of the Methodist church and lay preacher; poet. Age 68. Leaves a wife, 5 sons and 2 daughters.
Mrs. George S. Edmonds has received intelligence of the death of her brother, Ernest B. Wendell, which occurred at his home in Albany yesterday, after a short illness. Mr. Wendell was a native of Albany and nearly a life-long resident of that city. He was for a brief period a resident of this city and will be pleasantly remembered by many. He had for some time been engaged at the studio of his brother, Emory I. Wendell, the well known photographer of Albany. He is survived by his mother, Mrs. Harvey Wendell, two sisters, Miss Nellie M. Wendell of Albany and Mrs. George S. Edmonds of this city, and by three brothers, C. E. Wendell, James A. Wendell and E. I. Wendell. (No date, was probably in March.)
"I think I should take time to tell you about Jonas Wendell, who was another son of Jacob Wendell and Magdelena Snyder. He was one that up until about 8 months ago that remained quite a mystery to my family.
Jonas was also involved in the Methodist Episcipal Church in his earlier life. Without going into great detail, along about 1845 he became involved with a new sect of religion. He became involved with the belief that Christ would come to earth on a specific date. When that did not happen he rather lost interest in this movement, however, became involved once againand was one that was instrumental in the creation of the Advent Christian Church, which was a forerunner to the Seventh Day Adventist. He preached his beliefs through out the eastern seaboard. He also did a lot of writing concerning his beliefs.
Rufus Wendell, was a nephew of Jonas Wendell. Rufus was the son of Reverand John I. Wendell and Nancy Diefendorf. Rufus basically started out with the same beliefs of his uncle, Jonas Wendell, however, eventually the basic Adventist movement split off into various branches. Rufus seems to have been instrumental in the creation of the Jehovah Witness organization. He was a brilliant individual and quite an orator and debator concerning his religious views. He did considerable writing and in fact put forth two editions of the Bible, a New Testament, and eventually a full Bible.
Most of what information that might be found concerning Jonas and Rufus Wendell indicate that they were brothers, which was definitely not the case. It was an uncle and nephew combination.
Jonas lived a lot of his life in Edinboro, Pennsylvania, being married to Jane M. Gilmore and having a son, Daniel.
Nephew Rufus lived, in his later life, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where he died. He was married to Charity Mosher, and had a daughter and son.
Amsterdam Evening Recorder, Thursday, September 17, 1906
Obituary
Mrs. Rufus Wendell
Canajoharie, Sept. 14 - Mrs. Rufus Wendell was buried Saturday at Freys Bush in the town of Minden. Mrs. Wendell died on Wednesday (Sept. 9th) at New Woodstock, Maine, where she and her daughter Mrs. G. W. Kirchwey had been spending the summer. The deceased was 79 years of age, and at one time a resident of this village. She was the sister of the late E. S. Mosher of Canajoharie, and a sister of Mrs. Harmon Wendell of Amsterdam.
Cashier Stafford Mosher of the Canajoharie National Bank is a nephew of the deceased, and accompanied by his wife, attended the funeral.
(Charity Mosher Wendell was the daughter of Joseph L. Mosher and Delilah Weaver.)
Obit of Rev. Jonas Wendell
REV JONAS WENDELL - Copied following extract from an obituary notice in a paper called "The World Crisis" of September 10, written by Rev. G. W. Stetson, of Edinboro, Penn.
"Rev. Jonas Wendell was born in Minden, Montgomery County, New York, on the 25th day of December 1815 and died at Edinboro, Penn. Aug. 14, 1873, aged 57 years, 7 months and 14 days."
REV RUFUS WENDELL(son of Rev. John I. and Nancy D.) Died in Philadelphia.Heart Trouble, Buried at Frey's Bush. 70 yrs, leaves widow, a son and daughter, several brothers.
Born Frey's Bush, N.Y. His Father, Rev. John I. Wendell, 1 of 22 bro and sisters. Descendants of the thrifty German pioneers who settled in the valley of the Mohawk river two hundred years ago, and who within the present century have been generally known as ""Mohawk Dutch." In his younger days Rufus taught school near his home and worked in the printing office at Fort Plain, where the writer of this sketch had the pleasure of making his acquaintance nearly 49 years ago....... Author, critic of religious works and minister, publisher of books...........
(Have a good idea that the above obit was probably written by his first cousin, Wellington Wendell who had owned the Mohawk Valley Register. My guess is that Rufus worked for him when he was younger.)
WALRATH At Cameron, Steuben County, N.Y. on :
12th day of February, 1863, Laura Ann, aged nearly 9 years
13th day of February, 1863 George Irving, aged 11 years
27th day of February Elnora Agnes, aged nearly 14
28th ult (either Feb or Mar) 1863 Lany (Magdelena) Mevin, aged 29 years
Parents, George and Susan Wendell Walrath
WALRATH, George, Aug. 17, 1899, So. Cameron, Steuben Co., N.Y.
Born Canajoharie, Montgomery Co., Dec. 10, 1811. His maternal grandmother was one of the
sufferers in the historic Indian massacre at Cherry Valley. She took her children and fled at
the approach of the red men, penetrating far into the forests, adjacent to the settlements.
They remained thus in hiding for a period of days and were finally rescued. One of these
children was the mother of Mr. Walrath. Married Susan Wendell Sept. 20, 1836. Ten children
born to them. Only 2 living in 1899: Dr. H. S. Walrath of ST. Paul, Minn., and Mrs. C. E.
Stuart of Cameron, N. Y. His wife died Feb. 28, 1895. In 1847 moved from Montgomery Co.,
carrying his family and good in wagons a distance of more than 200 miles to S. Cameron. He
bought a tract of land almost wholly covered with timber, and here by industry, economy,
and strict honesty he made a most comfortable home and secured the respect and good-will
of a large circle of friends. Brought up in the German Lutheran church, parents also members.
Shortly after coming to So. Cameron became a member of the First Day Advent church, and
continued as member until the church disbanded. Since then he has been affiliated with the
First F.B. church of Cameron.
(John George Walrath and Susan Wendell were married 20 September, 1836 in Freysbush, by Rev. William Ottman. John George's mother was Elizabeth Litner.)
"This completes the obits that I have for the first family of Jacob Wendell and Magdelena Snyder. Next will be the family of Jacob Wendell and his second wife, Nancy Fox."