Stories in Stones: Stories from Oneida County, NY Cemeteries

       James B. Paddon was born March 13, 1886 in New York City to Mr. and Mrs. William Paddon. Came to Utica in 1843? was educated in William Osborn's School and the Advanced School.      For a few months James B. Paddon was a clerk in the store of Cooley and Clark. He then did carpenter work for some time. In 1859, Mr. Paddon became a recording clerk in the County Clerk's office. Two years later he was appointed deputy clerk. He hold the office for 12 years. In 1873, James B. Paddon was elected County Clerk. During his term the office moved to a new building. After his term was up he was reappointed as deputy clerk. He served until 1880 when he retired. After he retired Mr. Paddon went onto both the real estate and coal businesses.      During the Civil War James B. Paddon served on committees to get the seventh ward to raise its quota of volunteers to avoid the draft. He was one of the organizers of Friendship Hook, Ladder, and Bucket...

       Blandina Dudley Miller was born May 1, 1843 in Utica to Rutger Bleecker and Mary Seymour Miller (sister to NY Gov and Presidential Candidate Horatio Seymour and Julia who married political boss Roscoe Conkling). In 1845, the family moved to Alder Creek, NY. She was educated by private tutors and attended Turner's French School in Utica; and Moravian Seminary in Bethlehem, PA. The family returned to Utica in about 1861.      Blandina Dudley Miller was a member of Grace Episcopal Church. She taught Sunday School. She was a member of the sewing society and choir.    According to her obituary  Blandina Dudley Miller wrote more on historical subjects than any other woman in this section of the state. She wrote a book "A Sketch of Old Utica". She also wrote on nature and birds.      She was also a member of the following: Oneida Historical Society (now the Oneida County History Center); Oneida Chapter, Daughters of the Am...