A History of Otego by Stuart Banyar Blakely

Quoting the introduction below:

"On the grave-posts of our fathers
Are no signs, no figures painted;
Who are in those graves we know not,
Only know they are our fathers."

This little book is the result of the past four
summers' work in searching old records, con-
sulting books and articles that bear upon local
history and talking with those who, by age or
interest, are authorities. An endeavor has been
made, by fair search and impartial judgment, to
bring together data of local interest, particularly
such that exist only in men's memory. It has
been impossible, in the time at my disposal, to
gather all the facts that may be found recorded.
To name all the occupants, or even the first
settlers, of every farm would be an unprofitable
and probably an impossible task. Moreover, it
must not be forgotten that many of the early
settlers were very transient.

A few explanations of the text may be needed.
The terms "above" and "below," or "upper" and
"lower," are used to locate places in reference
to the center of the village, and do not refer to
the river or the creek. The facts about the
churches have been taken chiefly from Hurd's
History of Otsego County. I cannot vouch for
the truth of the legends and the stories.

It has been necessary, as well as interesting,
to gather a great deal of the genealogy of the
families of this town. This is at the disposal of
any one desiring it. I wish to thank the many
who have contributed to this history by word and
deed. I am especially indebted to W. J. Goddard.
As a history the book is far from being complete,
and of necessity contains errors. Any correc-
tions, suggestions or new facts will be most grate-
fully received. If a greater desire to preserve
family records and traditions is aroused, if a wider
interest in local history is created, if a few facts
have been rescued from oblivion, I shall feel well
repaid, and the purpose of this little history will
have been accomplished.

STUART B. BLAKELY

September 1, 1907.
Otego, N. Y.

More information on Mr. Blakely.

There is a Stuart B. Blakely Memorial Library in Binghamton, NY.

Stuart B Blakely Memorial Library
10-42 Mitchell Ave.
Binghamton, NY 13903-1617

Phone (607) 762-2110

He first worked as a teacher at the the Blairstown Academy in Blairstown, NJ, after graduating from Hamilton College in 1903. Later he studied medicine and became a doctor.