John Wyman VanDenbergh was for a time the Victor Historian. He also was a newspaper correspondent for the Ontario County Times, and wrote about 52 columns capturing the history of Victor and all its lore. These columns have been compiled into book form in the Victor Free Library for the public to read. Our mother, Meryl VanDenbergh Hanley wrote that he earned his living selling farm equipment, and was a newspaper correspondent for the Victor Herald and the Ontario County Times, as well as being the Victor, NY Historian.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES Wednesday April 4, 1877 Page 3 Col 6
VICTOR ITEMS
We understand that J. W. VanDenbergh, the well known correspondent of this newspaper, who writes over the signature "V", is about to remove from his farm in the town of Farmington to Canandaigua where he will probably make himself useful to the Times heretofore. Van has always come this way to church and to trade and we claimed him as one of our citizens and as such will be sorry to lose him. However, we congratulate John and also the TIMES. - GEORGE
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES April 4, 1888
SENECA CASTLE
We were pleased to see on our streets the other day the genial face of your correspondent from Victor, Mr. VanDenbergh. Van he knows beans! He is spending a few days here to help Cyrus Bray during his illness in renewing the orders of his customers for phosphates.
Mr. Bray, has been an efficient agent for the sale of Phosphates, and has been confined to his house and bed most of the time with inflammatory rheumatism, and consequently unable to canvass among his former customers.
Mr. VanDenbergh has come to tide him over this hard spot in the phosphate line. Mr. B. is slowly, yet we hope surely recovering from his illness and with the approach of warm weather we hope he will once again be among us as in days of yore.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES October 31, 1888 PAGE 3 COL 3
J. W. VanDenbergh took charge of the Victor Herald last week and made a better paper than has been issued before in Victor for years.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES February 27, 1889 PAGE 2 COL 5
LOCAL EVENTS
REED'S CORNERS
Mr. VanDenbergh, phosphate dealer, is working up trade in this vicinity in a lively way.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES June 19, 1889
VICTOR
J. W. VanDenbergh, agent for the Western New York Hedge Co., went on Saturday to Albion, the headquarters of the company, with a party of farmers from this and some of the adjoining towns, to investigate their method of growing and making their combined hedge and wire fence.
Several prominent farmers from this section have previously examined this fence, and all speak of it with words of commendation.
From Victor Herald 19 December 1891
At the annual meeting of Loyal Lodge, No. 169, A. O. U. W., of this place held Friday evening, Dec. 11th, the following officers were elected for the ensuing year:
M. W. - B. F. Timmerman
F. - H. Parmele
O. - Robt. Reeves
Recorder - J. W. VanDenbergh
THE VICTOR HERALD Saturday September 8, 1894 PAGE 3 COL 2
John W. VanDenbergh and Son are showing their Common Sense gate at the Cayuga county fair at Auburn this week. As its name implies, this is the most sensible, practical farm gate in the market.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday January 5, 1895 COL 3
Town and Village Directory
Town
Supervisor James Houston
Town Clerk Chas. L. Brown
Justice of the Peace Theodore M. Norton
George Hill
Milo Webster
Romeyn W. Brace
Assessor John W. Laufer
Comissioner of Highways M. E. McMahon
Collector James W. Moore
Overseer of the Poor Theodore Sidell
Constables C. Saunders
C. W. George
Thos. Sullivan Jr.
Insps. of Election W. A. Higinbotham
of 1st Dist. Chas. N. Ketchum
George Shanks
Insps. of Election F. M. Walling
of 2nd Dist. J. W. VanDenbergh
G. H. Cutler
Insps. of Election C. M. Webster
of 3rd Dist. I. Benson
Ambrose Ford
Excise Com'rs Theodore Conover
James Ransom
John W. VanDenbergh.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES December 11, 1895 PAGE 2 COL 4
VICTOR
J. W. VanDenbergh who has been working for the Eastern New York Hedge and Wire Fence Co. in Herkimer and Montgomery Counties, in this state, during the last three months, returned home Saturday evening, driving through from Ilion, which place he left the Thursday morning previous.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES Wednesday January 10, 1900 PAGE 3 COL 3
J. W. VanDenbergh is contributing to the Victor Herald a "History of Victor from 1669 to 1900". This history was first written by Mr. VanDenbergh for the ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES and published in this paper in 1874. It has now been revised and rewritten for the Victor paper, and cannot fail to be of intense interest to all residents of that town.
ONTARIO REPOSITORY MESSENGER June 19, 1902
VICTOR
The Home Telephone people are having considerable difficulty here in obtaining permission from property holders to set poles in front of their residences. The gang of men from the West arrived Thursday, and proceeded at once to erect poles.
The first opposition they met was near John VanDenbergh's. The company has a franchise from the Village Trustees allowing them to construct the line on condition they obtain consent of owners of property abutting that on which poles are to be set.
Mr. VanDenbergh had not given such consent, and objected to the poles being placed. The men went on digging the hole. When one was finished Mr. VanDenbergh jumped into it and showed the workmen that he intended to block the construction.
Another hole was dug, but VanDenbergh was active enough to occupy the holes alternately fast enough to keep the pole from being placed. When they dug a third hole however, he gave up that part of the game, but will give them further trouble. They met other obstacles on other parts of the street. A line from East Bloomfield is being constructed to meet this one here, and more trouble is expected on Maple Avenue.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES Wed. July 2, 1913
A BOULDER MONUMENT Marks French and Indian Battle Ground in Victor Village.
VICTOR June 30,
A large boulder on the Peter McMahon place on High Street has been removed to the junction of West Main Street and High Street, where it will stand in the future, marking the battle ground of the French and Indians.
The site has been given to the village by John W. VanDenbergh, and is directly in front of his residence.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES July 30, 1913 Front Page COL 2
THE VICTOR CENTENNIAL
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGE BETWEEN THE HILLS
THE FIRST SETTLERS
Most of the old landmarks have disappeared--The Churches--An Abandoned Chapel--Leading Business and Professional Men--Manufacturing Interests
I'm not going to transcribe in detail the entire article here, but will describe that within the article appeared a photo of my great grandfather. Below is the caption for this photo:
JOHN W. VAN DENBERGH
Author of the History of Victor printed in The Times some years ago, the most complete and accurate history of the town ever published. In the front lawn of Mr. VanDenbergh's home is to be dedicated, during Centennial Week, a Boulder Monument marking the scene of De Nonville's battle with the Indians in 1687.
1913
Dedication of the Monument
A Photo Accompanied This Article
The dedication of the boulder monument on the historic De Nonville - Seneca battlefield took place at 2 o'clock. Singing by a chorus of Victor vocalists was followed by an address on "The Senecas and the Colonists", by Prof. Arthur C. Parker of Albany, State Archeologist, who said:
Three hundred years ago this region was the territory of the Seneca Nation. Though their country was termed a wilderness, yet it was governed by a definite set of laws, all drafted in accordance with a regular constitution. This territory was a part of one of the five divisions of the Iroquois Confederacy. Its national name to the Indian geographer was Nundawa-ga-geh, though the French often called it Son-non-ton-on.
The men who owned this region before you were not lawless vagabonds, they were members of one of the greatest native empires ever conceived. The men who fought your fathers were not savages, they were patriots. Their story is worth the telling and your ears should not grow weary in listening to the thrilling romance that dwells in the history.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday May 26, 1916 PAGE 8 COL 1
Local Brevities
John W. VanDenbergh, the Victor historian, has been quite seriously ill at his home on West Main Street, this week.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday July 7, 1916 PAGE 8
VanDenbergh Reunion
The annual reunion of the VanDenbergh family was held at the home of H. J. VanDenbergh, on July 4th, and proved a most delightful occasion.
The pioneer members of this branch of the VanDenbergh family, Mr. and Mrs. Dow Fonda VanDenbergh, first came to Victor, 60 years ago, settling on Church Street. Nine children were born to them, four of whom are still living.
The father passed away, several years ago. There are many grandchildren and great grandchildren. The oldest member to enjoy the picnic was Mrs. Rachel VanDenbergh, 80 years old, the youngest, little Doris VanDenbergh, 3 years old.
Grandma VanDenbergh played drop the handkerchief with her grandchildren and great grandchildren, and enjoyed the fun as much as they did. A company of 55 partook of the sumptuous dinner.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday June 6, 1930 PAGE 1 COL 3
Thirty Years Ago In Victor
Exactly thirty years ago on June 6th 1900 the cornerstone of the Victor Town Hall was laid. W. D. Newton now of Las Cruces NM was then supervisor of Victor. The honorable William A Sutherland of Rochester made the address of the day, and the Victor Military Band furnished music.
Among the objects placed in the cornerstone are J. W. VanDenbergh's History of Victor from 1656 to 1900, photos of the Victor streets, coins, newspapers, etc. The issue of the Victor Herald of June 1, 1900, a copy of which is in the cornerstone was especially prepared for the occasion, and contains much of the info that will be of interest and value for future generations.
VICTOR HERALD Friday September 22, 1939
THIRTY YEARS AGO
Mr. and Mrs. John W. VanDenbergh celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at their home on High Street, September 21st. There were about 75 guests present.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES June 2, 1916
VICTOR Ontario County, NY June 2, 1916
OBITUARY
VanDenbergh
John Wyman VanDenbergh, born in the town of Farmington, September 21, 1837, died at his home in the village of Victor, on Thursday, June 1, 1916, at 9 15 AM. To the hearts of the many, many nephews and nieces of Uncle John, this simple announcement will bring a very real sorrow and a deep sense of personal loss.
A man of strong opinions and deep seated convictions to which he gave expression in no uncertain tones, he concealed beneath a rugged exterior a tender heart, full of sympathy for the misfortunes of his fellows and alive with the desire to aid them with every resource at his command.
An indefatigable reader and close observer, his mind was stored with much valuable information. He spent much time in the accumulation of data concerning the men and events of Victor's early days, and his collection of local historical records is an extremely valuable one.
He was the author of "The History of Victor", published in the Victor Herald, a few years since, and from his great fund of knowledge concerning the town was drawn the material for most of the historical articles which have appeared in this and other newspapers.
A man of many trades was "Uncle John", and it was his delight to serve as "handy man" for his neighbors and friends. In very many cases he worked for them without compensation or the desire for it if he felt they were unable to pay. The Victor Herald, as an institution, owes him a debt beyond payment.
Born, it would seem, with a gift for newspaper work, his interest in the local paper was unflagging, and he gave unsparingly of his time and thought for its upbuilding and secure establishment. He was associated with the Ontario County Times, for many years, as a correspondent in the days when to convey late information to the newspaper office meant a trip to the County Seat, and later as a traveling representative.
In the latter capacity he contributed to its columns many valuable sketches of prominent citizens and interesting historical reminiscences, John Wyman VanDenbergh was the son of Peter and Jennie Fonda VanDenbergh, the youngest of a family of seven children.
He was born in the town of Farmington, and until 1886, with the exception of five years, lived in Mendon, his home was upon the farm where he was born. On September 21, 1859, Mr. VanDenbergh married Elvira Chambers of Mendon.
In 1886, Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh moved to this village, and, except for three years, their home has been in the house at the junction of West Main Street, Cedar and High Streets, in which he died.
Mr. VanDenbergh was a member of the Presbyterian Church in this village and a regular attendant upon its services until physical disability made it impossible. He was greatly interested in public affairs, and was always found upon the side of progress and improvement.
For several years he served upon the health board of the village. During the last two years he had grown more and more feeble, being afflicted with a distressing chronic trouble, but he bore up under it with characteristic courage and stoicism, and was confined to his bed for but a few days.
Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh, M. Estella, Raymond C., and Blanche E. The latter died in infancy. Surviving members of the family are the devoted wife and mother, the daughter and son, and three grandchildren, John Raymond, Estella Meryl, and Karl Nathan VanDenbergh. Interment in the Village Cemetery.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES Wednesday June 7, 1916 FRONT PAGE COL 4
JOHN W. VANDENBERGH
Was the First Town Correspondent and Town Historian in Ontario County
John W. VanDenbergh, a widely known and highly respected resident of Victor, this county, died at his home in that village, on Thursday morning, June 1, at the age of 78 years.
Mr. VanDenbergh was born in the town of Farmington, and while yet a resident there he was united in marriage to Miss Elvira Chambers, of Mendon. After spending some years at the homestead in Farmington, Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh removed to Mendon, and then later to Victor. For twenty seven years the family have made their home on West Main Street in Victor Village.
Mr. VanDenbergh forty five years ago and more, was in the service of the publisher of the Ontario County Times, an agent and correspondent. His, "Victor Items", printed in this paper weekly through a succession of years, constituted the first systematic effort made in this or any neighboring county, or so far as we know, anywhere in the State, to keep the readers of a newspaper informed as to the happenings in a nearby town.
Even the city dailies relied then upon desultory reporting for their news from outlying territory. It was an innovation, however, that was quickly adopted by newspapers generally and that now has developed to an extent that makes the town correspondence a leading feature of both weekly and daily newspapers.
To Mr. VanDenbergh belongs the credit, also of compiling the first town histories published in this county. These began with the histories of Farmington and Victor, and then came that of Richmond, all three of which were written by Mr. VanDenbergh, and were printed serially in The Times. Mr. VanDenbergh's sketches were followed by similar histories of other towns, Canadice being covered by Mr. D. Byron Waite, and Manchester by Captain F. L. Brown.
These articles were made the basis for the most part without credit to the writers or the newspaper in which they appeared, of the first history of Ontario County published, that gotten out by Everts, Ensign and Everts, of Philadelphia, in 1876.
Mr. VanDenbergh continued to be greatly interested in the early history of this region, and was one of the leaders and organizers of the celebration held three years ago of the centennial anniversary of the organization of Victor Town.
Mr. VanDenbergh was the last of his immediate family. He is survived by his wife, Elvira Chambers VanDenbergh, by one daughter, Miss M. Estella VanDenbergh, who resides at the family home, and by one son, Raymond C. VanDenbergh, who with his family resides in Rochester. There are also several nephews and nieces, and three grandchildren. The funeral service was held at the family home in Victor on Saturday, the Rev. F. W. Hill officiating.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday June 2, 1916 FRONT PAGE COL 3
John Wyman VanDenbergh, born in the town of Farmington, September 21, 1837, died at his home in the village of Victor, on Thursday, June 1, 1916, at 9:15 a. m.
To the hearts of the many, many nephews and nieces of "Uncle John", this simple announcement will bring a very real sorrow and deep seated convictions to which he gave expression in no uncertain tones, he concealed beneath a rugged exterior a tender heart, full of sympathy for the misfortunes of his fellows and alive with the desire to aid them with every resource at his command.
An indefatigable reader and close observer, his mind was stored with much valuable information. He spent much time in the accumulation of data concerning the men and events of Victor's early days and his collection of local historical records is an extremely valuable one. He was the author of :The History of Victor," published in the Victor Herald, a few years since, and from his great fund of knowledge concerning the town was drawn the material for most of the historical articles which have appeared in this and other newspapers.
A man of many trades was "Uncle John", and it was his delight to serve as handy man for his neighbors and friends. In very many cases he worked for them without compensation or the desire for it, if he felt that they were unable to pay.
The Victor Herald, as an institution, owes him a debt beyond payment. Born, it would seem, with a gift for newspaper work, his interest in the local paper was unflagging, and he gave unsparingly of his time and thought for its upbuilding and secure establishment.
He was associated with the Ontario County Times, for many years as a correspondent in the days when to convey late information to the newspaper office meant a trip to the County Seat, and later as a traveling representative. In the latter capacity he contributed to its columns many valuable sketches of prominent citizens and interesting historical reminisciences.
John Wyman VanDenbergh was the son of Peter and Jeanette Fonda VanDenbergh, the youngest of a family of seven children. He was born in the town of Farmington, and until 1886, with the exception of five years, lived in Mendon, his home was upon the farm where he was born.
On September 21, 1859, Mr. VanDenbergh married Elvira Chambers of Mendon. In 1886, Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh moved to this village, and, except for three years, their home has been in the house at the junction of West Main, Cedar and High streets, in which he died.
Mr. VanDenbergh was a member of the Presbyterian church in this village and a regular attendant upon its services until physical disability made it impossible.
He was greatly interested in public affairs and was always found upon the side of progress and improvement. For several years he served upon the health board of the village.
During the past two years he had grown more and more feeble, being afflicted with a distressing chronic trouble, but he bore up under it with characteristic courage and stoicism, and was confined to his bed for but a few days.
Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh, M. Estella, Raymond C. and Blanche E. The latter died in infancy. Surviving members of the family are the devoted wife and mother, the daughter and son, and three grandchildren, John Raymond, Estella Meryl, and Karl Nathan VanDenbergh.
The funeral services will be held from the home, Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock, the Rev. Frank W. Hill officiating. Interment will be made in the Village Cemetery.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES Wednesday April 4, 1877 Page 3 Col 6
VICTOR ITEMS
We understand that J. W. VanDenbergh, the well known correspondent of this newspaper, who writes over the signature "V", is about to remove from his farm in the town of Farmington to Canandaigua where he will probably make himself useful to the Times heretofore. Van has always come this way to church and to trade and we claimed him as one of our citizens and as such will be sorry to lose him. However, we congratulate John and also the TIMES. - GEORGE
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES April 4, 1888
SENECA CASTLE
We were pleased to see on our streets the other day the genial face of your correspondent from Victor, Mr. VanDenbergh. Van he knows beans! He is spending a few days here to help Cyrus Bray during his illness in renewing the orders of his customers for phosphates.
Mr. Bray, has been an efficient agent for the sale of Phosphates, and has been confined to his house and bed most of the time with inflammatory rheumatism, and consequently unable to canvass among his former customers.
Mr. VanDenbergh has come to tide him over this hard spot in the phosphate line. Mr. B. is slowly, yet we hope surely recovering from his illness and with the approach of warm weather we hope he will once again be among us as in days of yore.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES October 31, 1888 PAGE 3 COL 3
J. W. VanDenbergh took charge of the Victor Herald last week and made a better paper than has been issued before in Victor for years.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES February 27, 1889 PAGE 2 COL 5
LOCAL EVENTS
REED'S CORNERS
Mr. VanDenbergh, phosphate dealer, is working up trade in this vicinity in a lively way.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES June 19, 1889
VICTOR
J. W. VanDenbergh, agent for the Western New York Hedge Co., went on Saturday to Albion, the headquarters of the company, with a party of farmers from this and some of the adjoining towns, to investigate their method of growing and making their combined hedge and wire fence.
Several prominent farmers from this section have previously examined this fence, and all speak of it with words of commendation.
From Victor Herald 19 December 1891
At the annual meeting of Loyal Lodge, No. 169, A. O. U. W., of this place held Friday evening, Dec. 11th, the following officers were elected for the ensuing year:
M. W. - B. F. Timmerman
F. - H. Parmele
O. - Robt. Reeves
Recorder - J. W. VanDenbergh
THE VICTOR HERALD Saturday September 8, 1894 PAGE 3 COL 2
John W. VanDenbergh and Son are showing their Common Sense gate at the Cayuga county fair at Auburn this week. As its name implies, this is the most sensible, practical farm gate in the market.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday January 5, 1895 COL 3
Town and Village Directory
Town
Supervisor James Houston
Town Clerk Chas. L. Brown
Justice of the Peace Theodore M. Norton
George Hill
Milo Webster
Romeyn W. Brace
Assessor John W. Laufer
Comissioner of Highways M. E. McMahon
Collector James W. Moore
Overseer of the Poor Theodore Sidell
Constables C. Saunders
C. W. George
Thos. Sullivan Jr.
Insps. of Election W. A. Higinbotham
of 1st Dist. Chas. N. Ketchum
George Shanks
Insps. of Election F. M. Walling
of 2nd Dist. J. W. VanDenbergh
G. H. Cutler
Insps. of Election C. M. Webster
of 3rd Dist. I. Benson
Ambrose Ford
Excise Com'rs Theodore Conover
James Ransom
John W. VanDenbergh.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES December 11, 1895 PAGE 2 COL 4
VICTOR
J. W. VanDenbergh who has been working for the Eastern New York Hedge and Wire Fence Co. in Herkimer and Montgomery Counties, in this state, during the last three months, returned home Saturday evening, driving through from Ilion, which place he left the Thursday morning previous.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES Wednesday January 10, 1900 PAGE 3 COL 3
J. W. VanDenbergh is contributing to the Victor Herald a "History of Victor from 1669 to 1900". This history was first written by Mr. VanDenbergh for the ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES and published in this paper in 1874. It has now been revised and rewritten for the Victor paper, and cannot fail to be of intense interest to all residents of that town.
ONTARIO REPOSITORY MESSENGER June 19, 1902
VICTOR
The Home Telephone people are having considerable difficulty here in obtaining permission from property holders to set poles in front of their residences. The gang of men from the West arrived Thursday, and proceeded at once to erect poles.
The first opposition they met was near John VanDenbergh's. The company has a franchise from the Village Trustees allowing them to construct the line on condition they obtain consent of owners of property abutting that on which poles are to be set.
Mr. VanDenbergh had not given such consent, and objected to the poles being placed. The men went on digging the hole. When one was finished Mr. VanDenbergh jumped into it and showed the workmen that he intended to block the construction.
Another hole was dug, but VanDenbergh was active enough to occupy the holes alternately fast enough to keep the pole from being placed. When they dug a third hole however, he gave up that part of the game, but will give them further trouble. They met other obstacles on other parts of the street. A line from East Bloomfield is being constructed to meet this one here, and more trouble is expected on Maple Avenue.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES Wed. July 2, 1913
A BOULDER MONUMENT Marks French and Indian Battle Ground in Victor Village.
VICTOR June 30,
A large boulder on the Peter McMahon place on High Street has been removed to the junction of West Main Street and High Street, where it will stand in the future, marking the battle ground of the French and Indians.
The site has been given to the village by John W. VanDenbergh, and is directly in front of his residence.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES July 30, 1913 Front Page COL 2
THE VICTOR CENTENNIAL
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGE BETWEEN THE HILLS
THE FIRST SETTLERS
Most of the old landmarks have disappeared--The Churches--An Abandoned Chapel--Leading Business and Professional Men--Manufacturing Interests
I'm not going to transcribe in detail the entire article here, but will describe that within the article appeared a photo of my great grandfather. Below is the caption for this photo:
JOHN W. VAN DENBERGH
Author of the History of Victor printed in The Times some years ago, the most complete and accurate history of the town ever published. In the front lawn of Mr. VanDenbergh's home is to be dedicated, during Centennial Week, a Boulder Monument marking the scene of De Nonville's battle with the Indians in 1687.
1913
Dedication of the Monument
A Photo Accompanied This Article
The dedication of the boulder monument on the historic De Nonville - Seneca battlefield took place at 2 o'clock. Singing by a chorus of Victor vocalists was followed by an address on "The Senecas and the Colonists", by Prof. Arthur C. Parker of Albany, State Archeologist, who said:
Three hundred years ago this region was the territory of the Seneca Nation. Though their country was termed a wilderness, yet it was governed by a definite set of laws, all drafted in accordance with a regular constitution. This territory was a part of one of the five divisions of the Iroquois Confederacy. Its national name to the Indian geographer was Nundawa-ga-geh, though the French often called it Son-non-ton-on.
The men who owned this region before you were not lawless vagabonds, they were members of one of the greatest native empires ever conceived. The men who fought your fathers were not savages, they were patriots. Their story is worth the telling and your ears should not grow weary in listening to the thrilling romance that dwells in the history.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday May 26, 1916 PAGE 8 COL 1
Local Brevities
John W. VanDenbergh, the Victor historian, has been quite seriously ill at his home on West Main Street, this week.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday July 7, 1916 PAGE 8
VanDenbergh Reunion
The annual reunion of the VanDenbergh family was held at the home of H. J. VanDenbergh, on July 4th, and proved a most delightful occasion.
The pioneer members of this branch of the VanDenbergh family, Mr. and Mrs. Dow Fonda VanDenbergh, first came to Victor, 60 years ago, settling on Church Street. Nine children were born to them, four of whom are still living.
The father passed away, several years ago. There are many grandchildren and great grandchildren. The oldest member to enjoy the picnic was Mrs. Rachel VanDenbergh, 80 years old, the youngest, little Doris VanDenbergh, 3 years old.
Grandma VanDenbergh played drop the handkerchief with her grandchildren and great grandchildren, and enjoyed the fun as much as they did. A company of 55 partook of the sumptuous dinner.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday June 6, 1930 PAGE 1 COL 3
Thirty Years Ago In Victor
Exactly thirty years ago on June 6th 1900 the cornerstone of the Victor Town Hall was laid. W. D. Newton now of Las Cruces NM was then supervisor of Victor. The honorable William A Sutherland of Rochester made the address of the day, and the Victor Military Band furnished music.
Among the objects placed in the cornerstone are J. W. VanDenbergh's History of Victor from 1656 to 1900, photos of the Victor streets, coins, newspapers, etc. The issue of the Victor Herald of June 1, 1900, a copy of which is in the cornerstone was especially prepared for the occasion, and contains much of the info that will be of interest and value for future generations.
VICTOR HERALD Friday September 22, 1939
THIRTY YEARS AGO
Mr. and Mrs. John W. VanDenbergh celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at their home on High Street, September 21st. There were about 75 guests present.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES June 2, 1916
VICTOR Ontario County, NY June 2, 1916
OBITUARY
VanDenbergh
John Wyman VanDenbergh, born in the town of Farmington, September 21, 1837, died at his home in the village of Victor, on Thursday, June 1, 1916, at 9 15 AM. To the hearts of the many, many nephews and nieces of Uncle John, this simple announcement will bring a very real sorrow and a deep sense of personal loss.
A man of strong opinions and deep seated convictions to which he gave expression in no uncertain tones, he concealed beneath a rugged exterior a tender heart, full of sympathy for the misfortunes of his fellows and alive with the desire to aid them with every resource at his command.
An indefatigable reader and close observer, his mind was stored with much valuable information. He spent much time in the accumulation of data concerning the men and events of Victor's early days, and his collection of local historical records is an extremely valuable one.
He was the author of "The History of Victor", published in the Victor Herald, a few years since, and from his great fund of knowledge concerning the town was drawn the material for most of the historical articles which have appeared in this and other newspapers.
A man of many trades was "Uncle John", and it was his delight to serve as "handy man" for his neighbors and friends. In very many cases he worked for them without compensation or the desire for it if he felt they were unable to pay. The Victor Herald, as an institution, owes him a debt beyond payment.
Born, it would seem, with a gift for newspaper work, his interest in the local paper was unflagging, and he gave unsparingly of his time and thought for its upbuilding and secure establishment. He was associated with the Ontario County Times, for many years, as a correspondent in the days when to convey late information to the newspaper office meant a trip to the County Seat, and later as a traveling representative.
In the latter capacity he contributed to its columns many valuable sketches of prominent citizens and interesting historical reminiscences, John Wyman VanDenbergh was the son of Peter and Jennie Fonda VanDenbergh, the youngest of a family of seven children.
He was born in the town of Farmington, and until 1886, with the exception of five years, lived in Mendon, his home was upon the farm where he was born. On September 21, 1859, Mr. VanDenbergh married Elvira Chambers of Mendon.
In 1886, Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh moved to this village, and, except for three years, their home has been in the house at the junction of West Main Street, Cedar and High Streets, in which he died.
Mr. VanDenbergh was a member of the Presbyterian Church in this village and a regular attendant upon its services until physical disability made it impossible. He was greatly interested in public affairs, and was always found upon the side of progress and improvement.
For several years he served upon the health board of the village. During the last two years he had grown more and more feeble, being afflicted with a distressing chronic trouble, but he bore up under it with characteristic courage and stoicism, and was confined to his bed for but a few days.
Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh, M. Estella, Raymond C., and Blanche E. The latter died in infancy. Surviving members of the family are the devoted wife and mother, the daughter and son, and three grandchildren, John Raymond, Estella Meryl, and Karl Nathan VanDenbergh. Interment in the Village Cemetery.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES Wednesday June 7, 1916 FRONT PAGE COL 4
JOHN W. VANDENBERGH
Was the First Town Correspondent and Town Historian in Ontario County
John W. VanDenbergh, a widely known and highly respected resident of Victor, this county, died at his home in that village, on Thursday morning, June 1, at the age of 78 years.
Mr. VanDenbergh was born in the town of Farmington, and while yet a resident there he was united in marriage to Miss Elvira Chambers, of Mendon. After spending some years at the homestead in Farmington, Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh removed to Mendon, and then later to Victor. For twenty seven years the family have made their home on West Main Street in Victor Village.
Mr. VanDenbergh forty five years ago and more, was in the service of the publisher of the Ontario County Times, an agent and correspondent. His, "Victor Items", printed in this paper weekly through a succession of years, constituted the first systematic effort made in this or any neighboring county, or so far as we know, anywhere in the State, to keep the readers of a newspaper informed as to the happenings in a nearby town.
Even the city dailies relied then upon desultory reporting for their news from outlying territory. It was an innovation, however, that was quickly adopted by newspapers generally and that now has developed to an extent that makes the town correspondence a leading feature of both weekly and daily newspapers.
To Mr. VanDenbergh belongs the credit, also of compiling the first town histories published in this county. These began with the histories of Farmington and Victor, and then came that of Richmond, all three of which were written by Mr. VanDenbergh, and were printed serially in The Times. Mr. VanDenbergh's sketches were followed by similar histories of other towns, Canadice being covered by Mr. D. Byron Waite, and Manchester by Captain F. L. Brown.
These articles were made the basis for the most part without credit to the writers or the newspaper in which they appeared, of the first history of Ontario County published, that gotten out by Everts, Ensign and Everts, of Philadelphia, in 1876.
Mr. VanDenbergh continued to be greatly interested in the early history of this region, and was one of the leaders and organizers of the celebration held three years ago of the centennial anniversary of the organization of Victor Town.
Mr. VanDenbergh was the last of his immediate family. He is survived by his wife, Elvira Chambers VanDenbergh, by one daughter, Miss M. Estella VanDenbergh, who resides at the family home, and by one son, Raymond C. VanDenbergh, who with his family resides in Rochester. There are also several nephews and nieces, and three grandchildren. The funeral service was held at the family home in Victor on Saturday, the Rev. F. W. Hill officiating.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday June 2, 1916 FRONT PAGE COL 3
John Wyman VanDenbergh, born in the town of Farmington, September 21, 1837, died at his home in the village of Victor, on Thursday, June 1, 1916, at 9:15 a. m.
To the hearts of the many, many nephews and nieces of "Uncle John", this simple announcement will bring a very real sorrow and deep seated convictions to which he gave expression in no uncertain tones, he concealed beneath a rugged exterior a tender heart, full of sympathy for the misfortunes of his fellows and alive with the desire to aid them with every resource at his command.
An indefatigable reader and close observer, his mind was stored with much valuable information. He spent much time in the accumulation of data concerning the men and events of Victor's early days and his collection of local historical records is an extremely valuable one. He was the author of :The History of Victor," published in the Victor Herald, a few years since, and from his great fund of knowledge concerning the town was drawn the material for most of the historical articles which have appeared in this and other newspapers.
A man of many trades was "Uncle John", and it was his delight to serve as handy man for his neighbors and friends. In very many cases he worked for them without compensation or the desire for it, if he felt that they were unable to pay.
The Victor Herald, as an institution, owes him a debt beyond payment. Born, it would seem, with a gift for newspaper work, his interest in the local paper was unflagging, and he gave unsparingly of his time and thought for its upbuilding and secure establishment.
He was associated with the Ontario County Times, for many years as a correspondent in the days when to convey late information to the newspaper office meant a trip to the County Seat, and later as a traveling representative. In the latter capacity he contributed to its columns many valuable sketches of prominent citizens and interesting historical reminisciences.
John Wyman VanDenbergh was the son of Peter and Jeanette Fonda VanDenbergh, the youngest of a family of seven children. He was born in the town of Farmington, and until 1886, with the exception of five years, lived in Mendon, his home was upon the farm where he was born.
On September 21, 1859, Mr. VanDenbergh married Elvira Chambers of Mendon. In 1886, Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh moved to this village, and, except for three years, their home has been in the house at the junction of West Main, Cedar and High streets, in which he died.
Mr. VanDenbergh was a member of the Presbyterian church in this village and a regular attendant upon its services until physical disability made it impossible.
He was greatly interested in public affairs and was always found upon the side of progress and improvement. For several years he served upon the health board of the village.
During the past two years he had grown more and more feeble, being afflicted with a distressing chronic trouble, but he bore up under it with characteristic courage and stoicism, and was confined to his bed for but a few days.
Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh, M. Estella, Raymond C. and Blanche E. The latter died in infancy. Surviving members of the family are the devoted wife and mother, the daughter and son, and three grandchildren, John Raymond, Estella Meryl, and Karl Nathan VanDenbergh.
The funeral services will be held from the home, Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock, the Rev. Frank W. Hill officiating. Interment will be made in the Village Cemetery.
John Wyman VanDenbergh was for a time the Victor Historian. He also was a newspaper correspondent for the Ontario County Times, and wrote about 52 columns capturing the history of Victor and all its lore. These columns have been compiled into book form in the Victor Free Library for the public to read. Our mother, Meryl VanDenbergh Hanley wrote that he earned his living selling farm equipment, and was a newspaper correspondent for the Victor Herald and the Ontario County Times, as well as being the Victor, NY Historian.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES Wednesday April 4, 1877 Page 3 Col 6
VICTOR ITEMS
We understand that J. W. VanDenbergh, the well known correspondent of this newspaper, who writes over the signature "V", is about to remove from his farm in the town of Farmington to Canandaigua where he will probably make himself useful to the Times heretofore. Van has always come this way to church and to trade and we claimed him as one of our citizens and as such will be sorry to lose him. However, we congratulate John and also the TIMES. - GEORGE
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES April 4, 1888
SENECA CASTLE
We were pleased to see on our streets the other day the genial face of your correspondent from Victor, Mr. VanDenbergh. Van he knows beans! He is spending a few days here to help Cyrus Bray during his illness in renewing the orders of his customers for phosphates.
Mr. Bray, has been an efficient agent for the sale of Phosphates, and has been confined to his house and bed most of the time with inflammatory rheumatism, and consequently unable to canvass among his former customers.
Mr. VanDenbergh has come to tide him over this hard spot in the phosphate line. Mr. B. is slowly, yet we hope surely recovering from his illness and with the approach of warm weather we hope he will once again be among us as in days of yore.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES October 31, 1888 PAGE 3 COL 3
J. W. VanDenbergh took charge of the Victor Herald last week and made a better paper than has been issued before in Victor for years.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES February 27, 1889 PAGE 2 COL 5
LOCAL EVENTS
REED'S CORNERS
Mr. VanDenbergh, phosphate dealer, is working up trade in this vicinity in a lively way.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES June 19, 1889
VICTOR
J. W. VanDenbergh, agent for the Western New York Hedge Co., went on Saturday to Albion, the headquarters of the company, with a party of farmers from this and some of the adjoining towns, to investigate their method of growing and making their combined hedge and wire fence.
Several prominent farmers from this section have previously examined this fence, and all speak of it with words of commendation.
From Victor Herald 19 December 1891
At the annual meeting of Loyal Lodge, No. 169, A. O. U. W., of this place held Friday evening, Dec. 11th, the following officers were elected for the ensuing year:
M. W. - B. F. Timmerman
F. - H. Parmele
O. - Robt. Reeves
Recorder - J. W. VanDenbergh
THE VICTOR HERALD Saturday September 8, 1894 PAGE 3 COL 2
John W. VanDenbergh and Son are showing their Common Sense gate at the Cayuga county fair at Auburn this week. As its name implies, this is the most sensible, practical farm gate in the market.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday January 5, 1895 COL 3
Town and Village Directory
Town
Supervisor James Houston
Town Clerk Chas. L. Brown
Justice of the Peace Theodore M. Norton
George Hill
Milo Webster
Romeyn W. Brace
Assessor John W. Laufer
Comissioner of Highways M. E. McMahon
Collector James W. Moore
Overseer of the Poor Theodore Sidell
Constables C. Saunders
C. W. George
Thos. Sullivan Jr.
Insps. of Election W. A. Higinbotham
of 1st Dist. Chas. N. Ketchum
George Shanks
Insps. of Election F. M. Walling
of 2nd Dist. J. W. VanDenbergh
G. H. Cutler
Insps. of Election C. M. Webster
of 3rd Dist. I. Benson
Ambrose Ford
Excise Com'rs Theodore Conover
James Ransom
John W. VanDenbergh.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES December 11, 1895 PAGE 2 COL 4
VICTOR
J. W. VanDenbergh who has been working for the Eastern New York Hedge and Wire Fence Co. in Herkimer and Montgomery Counties, in this state, during the last three months, returned home Saturday evening, driving through from Ilion, which place he left the Thursday morning previous.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES Wednesday January 10, 1900 PAGE 3 COL 3
J. W. VanDenbergh is contributing to the Victor Herald a "History of Victor from 1669 to 1900". This history was first written by Mr. VanDenbergh for the ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES and published in this paper in 1874. It has now been revised and rewritten for the Victor paper, and cannot fail to be of intense interest to all residents of that town.
ONTARIO REPOSITORY MESSENGER June 19, 1902
VICTOR
The Home Telephone people are having considerable difficulty here in obtaining permission from property holders to set poles in front of their residences. The gang of men from the West arrived Thursday, and proceeded at once to erect poles.
The first opposition they met was near John VanDenbergh's. The company has a franchise from the Village Trustees allowing them to construct the line on condition they obtain consent of owners of property abutting that on which poles are to be set.
Mr. VanDenbergh had not given such consent, and objected to the poles being placed. The men went on digging the hole. When one was finished Mr. VanDenbergh jumped into it and showed the workmen that he intended to block the construction.
Another hole was dug, but VanDenbergh was active enough to occupy the holes alternately fast enough to keep the pole from being placed. When they dug a third hole however, he gave up that part of the game, but will give them further trouble. They met other obstacles on other parts of the street. A line from East Bloomfield is being constructed to meet this one here, and more trouble is expected on Maple Avenue.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES Wed. July 2, 1913
A BOULDER MONUMENT Marks French and Indian Battle Ground in Victor Village.
VICTOR June 30,
A large boulder on the Peter McMahon place on High Street has been removed to the junction of West Main Street and High Street, where it will stand in the future, marking the battle ground of the French and Indians.
The site has been given to the village by John W. VanDenbergh, and is directly in front of his residence.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES July 30, 1913 Front Page COL 2
THE VICTOR CENTENNIAL
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGE BETWEEN THE HILLS
THE FIRST SETTLERS
Most of the old landmarks have disappeared--The Churches--An Abandoned Chapel--Leading Business and Professional Men--Manufacturing Interests
I'm not going to transcribe in detail the entire article here, but will describe that within the article appeared a photo of my great grandfather. Below is the caption for this photo:
JOHN W. VAN DENBERGH
Author of the History of Victor printed in The Times some years ago, the most complete and accurate history of the town ever published. In the front lawn of Mr. VanDenbergh's home is to be dedicated, during Centennial Week, a Boulder Monument marking the scene of De Nonville's battle with the Indians in 1687.
1913
Dedication of the Monument
A Photo Accompanied This Article
The dedication of the boulder monument on the historic De Nonville - Seneca battlefield took place at 2 o'clock. Singing by a chorus of Victor vocalists was followed by an address on "The Senecas and the Colonists", by Prof. Arthur C. Parker of Albany, State Archeologist, who said:
Three hundred years ago this region was the territory of the Seneca Nation. Though their country was termed a wilderness, yet it was governed by a definite set of laws, all drafted in accordance with a regular constitution. This territory was a part of one of the five divisions of the Iroquois Confederacy. Its national name to the Indian geographer was Nundawa-ga-geh, though the French often called it Son-non-ton-on.
The men who owned this region before you were not lawless vagabonds, they were members of one of the greatest native empires ever conceived. The men who fought your fathers were not savages, they were patriots. Their story is worth the telling and your ears should not grow weary in listening to the thrilling romance that dwells in the history.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday May 26, 1916 PAGE 8 COL 1
Local Brevities
John W. VanDenbergh, the Victor historian, has been quite seriously ill at his home on West Main Street, this week.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday July 7, 1916 PAGE 8
VanDenbergh Reunion
The annual reunion of the VanDenbergh family was held at the home of H. J. VanDenbergh, on July 4th, and proved a most delightful occasion.
The pioneer members of this branch of the VanDenbergh family, Mr. and Mrs. Dow Fonda VanDenbergh, first came to Victor, 60 years ago, settling on Church Street. Nine children were born to them, four of whom are still living.
The father passed away, several years ago. There are many grandchildren and great grandchildren. The oldest member to enjoy the picnic was Mrs. Rachel VanDenbergh, 80 years old, the youngest, little Doris VanDenbergh, 3 years old.
Grandma VanDenbergh played drop the handkerchief with her grandchildren and great grandchildren, and enjoyed the fun as much as they did. A company of 55 partook of the sumptuous dinner.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday June 6, 1930 PAGE 1 COL 3
Thirty Years Ago In Victor
Exactly thirty years ago on June 6th 1900 the cornerstone of the Victor Town Hall was laid. W. D. Newton now of Las Cruces NM was then supervisor of Victor. The honorable William A Sutherland of Rochester made the address of the day, and the Victor Military Band furnished music.
Among the objects placed in the cornerstone are J. W. VanDenbergh's History of Victor from 1656 to 1900, photos of the Victor streets, coins, newspapers, etc. The issue of the Victor Herald of June 1, 1900, a copy of which is in the cornerstone was especially prepared for the occasion, and contains much of the info that will be of interest and value for future generations.
VICTOR HERALD Friday September 22, 1939
THIRTY YEARS AGO
Mr. and Mrs. John W. VanDenbergh celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at their home on High Street, September 21st. There were about 75 guests present.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES June 2, 1916
VICTOR Ontario County, NY June 2, 1916
OBITUARY
VanDenbergh
John Wyman VanDenbergh, born in the town of Farmington, September 21, 1837, died at his home in the village of Victor, on Thursday, June 1, 1916, at 9 15 AM. To the hearts of the many, many nephews and nieces of Uncle John, this simple announcement will bring a very real sorrow and a deep sense of personal loss.
A man of strong opinions and deep seated convictions to which he gave expression in no uncertain tones, he concealed beneath a rugged exterior a tender heart, full of sympathy for the misfortunes of his fellows and alive with the desire to aid them with every resource at his command.
An indefatigable reader and close observer, his mind was stored with much valuable information. He spent much time in the accumulation of data concerning the men and events of Victor's early days, and his collection of local historical records is an extremely valuable one.
He was the author of "The History of Victor", published in the Victor Herald, a few years since, and from his great fund of knowledge concerning the town was drawn the material for most of the historical articles which have appeared in this and other newspapers.
A man of many trades was "Uncle John", and it was his delight to serve as "handy man" for his neighbors and friends. In very many cases he worked for them without compensation or the desire for it if he felt they were unable to pay. The Victor Herald, as an institution, owes him a debt beyond payment.
Born, it would seem, with a gift for newspaper work, his interest in the local paper was unflagging, and he gave unsparingly of his time and thought for its upbuilding and secure establishment. He was associated with the Ontario County Times, for many years, as a correspondent in the days when to convey late information to the newspaper office meant a trip to the County Seat, and later as a traveling representative.
In the latter capacity he contributed to its columns many valuable sketches of prominent citizens and interesting historical reminiscences, John Wyman VanDenbergh was the son of Peter and Jennie Fonda VanDenbergh, the youngest of a family of seven children.
He was born in the town of Farmington, and until 1886, with the exception of five years, lived in Mendon, his home was upon the farm where he was born. On September 21, 1859, Mr. VanDenbergh married Elvira Chambers of Mendon.
In 1886, Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh moved to this village, and, except for three years, their home has been in the house at the junction of West Main Street, Cedar and High Streets, in which he died.
Mr. VanDenbergh was a member of the Presbyterian Church in this village and a regular attendant upon its services until physical disability made it impossible. He was greatly interested in public affairs, and was always found upon the side of progress and improvement.
For several years he served upon the health board of the village. During the last two years he had grown more and more feeble, being afflicted with a distressing chronic trouble, but he bore up under it with characteristic courage and stoicism, and was confined to his bed for but a few days.
Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh, M. Estella, Raymond C., and Blanche E. The latter died in infancy. Surviving members of the family are the devoted wife and mother, the daughter and son, and three grandchildren, John Raymond, Estella Meryl, and Karl Nathan VanDenbergh. Interment in the Village Cemetery.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES Wednesday June 7, 1916 FRONT PAGE COL 4
JOHN W. VANDENBERGH
Was the First Town Correspondent and Town Historian in Ontario County
John W. VanDenbergh, a widely known and highly respected resident of Victor, this county, died at his home in that village, on Thursday morning, June 1, at the age of 78 years.
Mr. VanDenbergh was born in the town of Farmington, and while yet a resident there he was united in marriage to Miss Elvira Chambers, of Mendon. After spending some years at the homestead in Farmington, Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh removed to Mendon, and then later to Victor. For twenty seven years the family have made their home on West Main Street in Victor Village.
Mr. VanDenbergh forty five years ago and more, was in the service of the publisher of the Ontario County Times, an agent and correspondent. His, "Victor Items", printed in this paper weekly through a succession of years, constituted the first systematic effort made in this or any neighboring county, or so far as we know, anywhere in the State, to keep the readers of a newspaper informed as to the happenings in a nearby town.
Even the city dailies relied then upon desultory reporting for their news from outlying territory. It was an innovation, however, that was quickly adopted by newspapers generally and that now has developed to an extent that makes the town correspondence a leading feature of both weekly and daily newspapers.
To Mr. VanDenbergh belongs the credit, also of compiling the first town histories published in this county. These began with the histories of Farmington and Victor, and then came that of Richmond, all three of which were written by Mr. VanDenbergh, and were printed serially in The Times. Mr. VanDenbergh's sketches were followed by similar histories of other towns, Canadice being covered by Mr. D. Byron Waite, and Manchester by Captain F. L. Brown.
These articles were made the basis for the most part without credit to the writers or the newspaper in which they appeared, of the first history of Ontario County published, that gotten out by Everts, Ensign and Everts, of Philadelphia, in 1876.
Mr. VanDenbergh continued to be greatly interested in the early history of this region, and was one of the leaders and organizers of the celebration held three years ago of the centennial anniversary of the organization of Victor Town.
Mr. VanDenbergh was the last of his immediate family. He is survived by his wife, Elvira Chambers VanDenbergh, by one daughter, Miss M. Estella VanDenbergh, who resides at the family home, and by one son, Raymond C. VanDenbergh, who with his family resides in Rochester. There are also several nephews and nieces, and three grandchildren. The funeral service was held at the family home in Victor on Saturday, the Rev. F. W. Hill officiating.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday June 2, 1916 FRONT PAGE COL 3
John Wyman VanDenbergh, born in the town of Farmington, September 21, 1837, died at his home in the village of Victor, on Thursday, June 1, 1916, at 9:15 a. m.
To the hearts of the many, many nephews and nieces of "Uncle John", this simple announcement will bring a very real sorrow and deep seated convictions to which he gave expression in no uncertain tones, he concealed beneath a rugged exterior a tender heart, full of sympathy for the misfortunes of his fellows and alive with the desire to aid them with every resource at his command.
An indefatigable reader and close observer, his mind was stored with much valuable information. He spent much time in the accumulation of data concerning the men and events of Victor's early days and his collection of local historical records is an extremely valuable one. He was the author of :The History of Victor," published in the Victor Herald, a few years since, and from his great fund of knowledge concerning the town was drawn the material for most of the historical articles which have appeared in this and other newspapers.
A man of many trades was "Uncle John", and it was his delight to serve as handy man for his neighbors and friends. In very many cases he worked for them without compensation or the desire for it, if he felt that they were unable to pay.
The Victor Herald, as an institution, owes him a debt beyond payment. Born, it would seem, with a gift for newspaper work, his interest in the local paper was unflagging, and he gave unsparingly of his time and thought for its upbuilding and secure establishment.
He was associated with the Ontario County Times, for many years as a correspondent in the days when to convey late information to the newspaper office meant a trip to the County Seat, and later as a traveling representative. In the latter capacity he contributed to its columns many valuable sketches of prominent citizens and interesting historical reminisciences.
John Wyman VanDenbergh was the son of Peter and Jeanette Fonda VanDenbergh, the youngest of a family of seven children. He was born in the town of Farmington, and until 1886, with the exception of five years, lived in Mendon, his home was upon the farm where he was born.
On September 21, 1859, Mr. VanDenbergh married Elvira Chambers of Mendon. In 1886, Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh moved to this village, and, except for three years, their home has been in the house at the junction of West Main, Cedar and High streets, in which he died.
Mr. VanDenbergh was a member of the Presbyterian church in this village and a regular attendant upon its services until physical disability made it impossible.
He was greatly interested in public affairs and was always found upon the side of progress and improvement. For several years he served upon the health board of the village.
During the past two years he had grown more and more feeble, being afflicted with a distressing chronic trouble, but he bore up under it with characteristic courage and stoicism, and was confined to his bed for but a few days.
Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh, M. Estella, Raymond C. and Blanche E. The latter died in infancy. Surviving members of the family are the devoted wife and mother, the daughter and son, and three grandchildren, John Raymond, Estella Meryl, and Karl Nathan VanDenbergh.
The funeral services will be held from the home, Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock, the Rev. Frank W. Hill officiating. Interment will be made in the Village Cemetery.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES Wednesday April 4, 1877 Page 3 Col 6
VICTOR ITEMS
We understand that J. W. VanDenbergh, the well known correspondent of this newspaper, who writes over the signature "V", is about to remove from his farm in the town of Farmington to Canandaigua where he will probably make himself useful to the Times heretofore. Van has always come this way to church and to trade and we claimed him as one of our citizens and as such will be sorry to lose him. However, we congratulate John and also the TIMES. - GEORGE
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES April 4, 1888
SENECA CASTLE
We were pleased to see on our streets the other day the genial face of your correspondent from Victor, Mr. VanDenbergh. Van he knows beans! He is spending a few days here to help Cyrus Bray during his illness in renewing the orders of his customers for phosphates.
Mr. Bray, has been an efficient agent for the sale of Phosphates, and has been confined to his house and bed most of the time with inflammatory rheumatism, and consequently unable to canvass among his former customers.
Mr. VanDenbergh has come to tide him over this hard spot in the phosphate line. Mr. B. is slowly, yet we hope surely recovering from his illness and with the approach of warm weather we hope he will once again be among us as in days of yore.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES October 31, 1888 PAGE 3 COL 3
J. W. VanDenbergh took charge of the Victor Herald last week and made a better paper than has been issued before in Victor for years.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES February 27, 1889 PAGE 2 COL 5
LOCAL EVENTS
REED'S CORNERS
Mr. VanDenbergh, phosphate dealer, is working up trade in this vicinity in a lively way.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES June 19, 1889
VICTOR
J. W. VanDenbergh, agent for the Western New York Hedge Co., went on Saturday to Albion, the headquarters of the company, with a party of farmers from this and some of the adjoining towns, to investigate their method of growing and making their combined hedge and wire fence.
Several prominent farmers from this section have previously examined this fence, and all speak of it with words of commendation.
From Victor Herald 19 December 1891
At the annual meeting of Loyal Lodge, No. 169, A. O. U. W., of this place held Friday evening, Dec. 11th, the following officers were elected for the ensuing year:
M. W. - B. F. Timmerman
F. - H. Parmele
O. - Robt. Reeves
Recorder - J. W. VanDenbergh
THE VICTOR HERALD Saturday September 8, 1894 PAGE 3 COL 2
John W. VanDenbergh and Son are showing their Common Sense gate at the Cayuga county fair at Auburn this week. As its name implies, this is the most sensible, practical farm gate in the market.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday January 5, 1895 COL 3
Town and Village Directory
Town
Supervisor James Houston
Town Clerk Chas. L. Brown
Justice of the Peace Theodore M. Norton
George Hill
Milo Webster
Romeyn W. Brace
Assessor John W. Laufer
Comissioner of Highways M. E. McMahon
Collector James W. Moore
Overseer of the Poor Theodore Sidell
Constables C. Saunders
C. W. George
Thos. Sullivan Jr.
Insps. of Election W. A. Higinbotham
of 1st Dist. Chas. N. Ketchum
George Shanks
Insps. of Election F. M. Walling
of 2nd Dist. J. W. VanDenbergh
G. H. Cutler
Insps. of Election C. M. Webster
of 3rd Dist. I. Benson
Ambrose Ford
Excise Com'rs Theodore Conover
James Ransom
John W. VanDenbergh.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES December 11, 1895 PAGE 2 COL 4
VICTOR
J. W. VanDenbergh who has been working for the Eastern New York Hedge and Wire Fence Co. in Herkimer and Montgomery Counties, in this state, during the last three months, returned home Saturday evening, driving through from Ilion, which place he left the Thursday morning previous.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES Wednesday January 10, 1900 PAGE 3 COL 3
J. W. VanDenbergh is contributing to the Victor Herald a "History of Victor from 1669 to 1900". This history was first written by Mr. VanDenbergh for the ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES and published in this paper in 1874. It has now been revised and rewritten for the Victor paper, and cannot fail to be of intense interest to all residents of that town.
ONTARIO REPOSITORY MESSENGER June 19, 1902
VICTOR
The Home Telephone people are having considerable difficulty here in obtaining permission from property holders to set poles in front of their residences. The gang of men from the West arrived Thursday, and proceeded at once to erect poles.
The first opposition they met was near John VanDenbergh's. The company has a franchise from the Village Trustees allowing them to construct the line on condition they obtain consent of owners of property abutting that on which poles are to be set.
Mr. VanDenbergh had not given such consent, and objected to the poles being placed. The men went on digging the hole. When one was finished Mr. VanDenbergh jumped into it and showed the workmen that he intended to block the construction.
Another hole was dug, but VanDenbergh was active enough to occupy the holes alternately fast enough to keep the pole from being placed. When they dug a third hole however, he gave up that part of the game, but will give them further trouble. They met other obstacles on other parts of the street. A line from East Bloomfield is being constructed to meet this one here, and more trouble is expected on Maple Avenue.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES Wed. July 2, 1913
A BOULDER MONUMENT Marks French and Indian Battle Ground in Victor Village.
VICTOR June 30,
A large boulder on the Peter McMahon place on High Street has been removed to the junction of West Main Street and High Street, where it will stand in the future, marking the battle ground of the French and Indians.
The site has been given to the village by John W. VanDenbergh, and is directly in front of his residence.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES July 30, 1913 Front Page COL 2
THE VICTOR CENTENNIAL
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGE BETWEEN THE HILLS
THE FIRST SETTLERS
Most of the old landmarks have disappeared--The Churches--An Abandoned Chapel--Leading Business and Professional Men--Manufacturing Interests
I'm not going to transcribe in detail the entire article here, but will describe that within the article appeared a photo of my great grandfather. Below is the caption for this photo:
JOHN W. VAN DENBERGH
Author of the History of Victor printed in The Times some years ago, the most complete and accurate history of the town ever published. In the front lawn of Mr. VanDenbergh's home is to be dedicated, during Centennial Week, a Boulder Monument marking the scene of De Nonville's battle with the Indians in 1687.
1913
Dedication of the Monument
A Photo Accompanied This Article
The dedication of the boulder monument on the historic De Nonville - Seneca battlefield took place at 2 o'clock. Singing by a chorus of Victor vocalists was followed by an address on "The Senecas and the Colonists", by Prof. Arthur C. Parker of Albany, State Archeologist, who said:
Three hundred years ago this region was the territory of the Seneca Nation. Though their country was termed a wilderness, yet it was governed by a definite set of laws, all drafted in accordance with a regular constitution. This territory was a part of one of the five divisions of the Iroquois Confederacy. Its national name to the Indian geographer was Nundawa-ga-geh, though the French often called it Son-non-ton-on.
The men who owned this region before you were not lawless vagabonds, they were members of one of the greatest native empires ever conceived. The men who fought your fathers were not savages, they were patriots. Their story is worth the telling and your ears should not grow weary in listening to the thrilling romance that dwells in the history.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday May 26, 1916 PAGE 8 COL 1
Local Brevities
John W. VanDenbergh, the Victor historian, has been quite seriously ill at his home on West Main Street, this week.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday July 7, 1916 PAGE 8
VanDenbergh Reunion
The annual reunion of the VanDenbergh family was held at the home of H. J. VanDenbergh, on July 4th, and proved a most delightful occasion.
The pioneer members of this branch of the VanDenbergh family, Mr. and Mrs. Dow Fonda VanDenbergh, first came to Victor, 60 years ago, settling on Church Street. Nine children were born to them, four of whom are still living.
The father passed away, several years ago. There are many grandchildren and great grandchildren. The oldest member to enjoy the picnic was Mrs. Rachel VanDenbergh, 80 years old, the youngest, little Doris VanDenbergh, 3 years old.
Grandma VanDenbergh played drop the handkerchief with her grandchildren and great grandchildren, and enjoyed the fun as much as they did. A company of 55 partook of the sumptuous dinner.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday June 6, 1930 PAGE 1 COL 3
Thirty Years Ago In Victor
Exactly thirty years ago on June 6th 1900 the cornerstone of the Victor Town Hall was laid. W. D. Newton now of Las Cruces NM was then supervisor of Victor. The honorable William A Sutherland of Rochester made the address of the day, and the Victor Military Band furnished music.
Among the objects placed in the cornerstone are J. W. VanDenbergh's History of Victor from 1656 to 1900, photos of the Victor streets, coins, newspapers, etc. The issue of the Victor Herald of June 1, 1900, a copy of which is in the cornerstone was especially prepared for the occasion, and contains much of the info that will be of interest and value for future generations.
VICTOR HERALD Friday September 22, 1939
THIRTY YEARS AGO
Mr. and Mrs. John W. VanDenbergh celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at their home on High Street, September 21st. There were about 75 guests present.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES June 2, 1916
VICTOR Ontario County, NY June 2, 1916
OBITUARY
VanDenbergh
John Wyman VanDenbergh, born in the town of Farmington, September 21, 1837, died at his home in the village of Victor, on Thursday, June 1, 1916, at 9 15 AM. To the hearts of the many, many nephews and nieces of Uncle John, this simple announcement will bring a very real sorrow and a deep sense of personal loss.
A man of strong opinions and deep seated convictions to which he gave expression in no uncertain tones, he concealed beneath a rugged exterior a tender heart, full of sympathy for the misfortunes of his fellows and alive with the desire to aid them with every resource at his command.
An indefatigable reader and close observer, his mind was stored with much valuable information. He spent much time in the accumulation of data concerning the men and events of Victor's early days, and his collection of local historical records is an extremely valuable one.
He was the author of "The History of Victor", published in the Victor Herald, a few years since, and from his great fund of knowledge concerning the town was drawn the material for most of the historical articles which have appeared in this and other newspapers.
A man of many trades was "Uncle John", and it was his delight to serve as "handy man" for his neighbors and friends. In very many cases he worked for them without compensation or the desire for it if he felt they were unable to pay. The Victor Herald, as an institution, owes him a debt beyond payment.
Born, it would seem, with a gift for newspaper work, his interest in the local paper was unflagging, and he gave unsparingly of his time and thought for its upbuilding and secure establishment. He was associated with the Ontario County Times, for many years, as a correspondent in the days when to convey late information to the newspaper office meant a trip to the County Seat, and later as a traveling representative.
In the latter capacity he contributed to its columns many valuable sketches of prominent citizens and interesting historical reminiscences, John Wyman VanDenbergh was the son of Peter and Jennie Fonda VanDenbergh, the youngest of a family of seven children.
He was born in the town of Farmington, and until 1886, with the exception of five years, lived in Mendon, his home was upon the farm where he was born. On September 21, 1859, Mr. VanDenbergh married Elvira Chambers of Mendon.
In 1886, Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh moved to this village, and, except for three years, their home has been in the house at the junction of West Main Street, Cedar and High Streets, in which he died.
Mr. VanDenbergh was a member of the Presbyterian Church in this village and a regular attendant upon its services until physical disability made it impossible. He was greatly interested in public affairs, and was always found upon the side of progress and improvement.
For several years he served upon the health board of the village. During the last two years he had grown more and more feeble, being afflicted with a distressing chronic trouble, but he bore up under it with characteristic courage and stoicism, and was confined to his bed for but a few days.
Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh, M. Estella, Raymond C., and Blanche E. The latter died in infancy. Surviving members of the family are the devoted wife and mother, the daughter and son, and three grandchildren, John Raymond, Estella Meryl, and Karl Nathan VanDenbergh. Interment in the Village Cemetery.
ONTARIO COUNTY TIMES Wednesday June 7, 1916 FRONT PAGE COL 4
JOHN W. VANDENBERGH
Was the First Town Correspondent and Town Historian in Ontario County
John W. VanDenbergh, a widely known and highly respected resident of Victor, this county, died at his home in that village, on Thursday morning, June 1, at the age of 78 years.
Mr. VanDenbergh was born in the town of Farmington, and while yet a resident there he was united in marriage to Miss Elvira Chambers, of Mendon. After spending some years at the homestead in Farmington, Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh removed to Mendon, and then later to Victor. For twenty seven years the family have made their home on West Main Street in Victor Village.
Mr. VanDenbergh forty five years ago and more, was in the service of the publisher of the Ontario County Times, an agent and correspondent. His, "Victor Items", printed in this paper weekly through a succession of years, constituted the first systematic effort made in this or any neighboring county, or so far as we know, anywhere in the State, to keep the readers of a newspaper informed as to the happenings in a nearby town.
Even the city dailies relied then upon desultory reporting for their news from outlying territory. It was an innovation, however, that was quickly adopted by newspapers generally and that now has developed to an extent that makes the town correspondence a leading feature of both weekly and daily newspapers.
To Mr. VanDenbergh belongs the credit, also of compiling the first town histories published in this county. These began with the histories of Farmington and Victor, and then came that of Richmond, all three of which were written by Mr. VanDenbergh, and were printed serially in The Times. Mr. VanDenbergh's sketches were followed by similar histories of other towns, Canadice being covered by Mr. D. Byron Waite, and Manchester by Captain F. L. Brown.
These articles were made the basis for the most part without credit to the writers or the newspaper in which they appeared, of the first history of Ontario County published, that gotten out by Everts, Ensign and Everts, of Philadelphia, in 1876.
Mr. VanDenbergh continued to be greatly interested in the early history of this region, and was one of the leaders and organizers of the celebration held three years ago of the centennial anniversary of the organization of Victor Town.
Mr. VanDenbergh was the last of his immediate family. He is survived by his wife, Elvira Chambers VanDenbergh, by one daughter, Miss M. Estella VanDenbergh, who resides at the family home, and by one son, Raymond C. VanDenbergh, who with his family resides in Rochester. There are also several nephews and nieces, and three grandchildren. The funeral service was held at the family home in Victor on Saturday, the Rev. F. W. Hill officiating.
THE VICTOR HERALD Friday June 2, 1916 FRONT PAGE COL 3
John Wyman VanDenbergh, born in the town of Farmington, September 21, 1837, died at his home in the village of Victor, on Thursday, June 1, 1916, at 9:15 a. m.
To the hearts of the many, many nephews and nieces of "Uncle John", this simple announcement will bring a very real sorrow and deep seated convictions to which he gave expression in no uncertain tones, he concealed beneath a rugged exterior a tender heart, full of sympathy for the misfortunes of his fellows and alive with the desire to aid them with every resource at his command.
An indefatigable reader and close observer, his mind was stored with much valuable information. He spent much time in the accumulation of data concerning the men and events of Victor's early days and his collection of local historical records is an extremely valuable one. He was the author of :The History of Victor," published in the Victor Herald, a few years since, and from his great fund of knowledge concerning the town was drawn the material for most of the historical articles which have appeared in this and other newspapers.
A man of many trades was "Uncle John", and it was his delight to serve as handy man for his neighbors and friends. In very many cases he worked for them without compensation or the desire for it, if he felt that they were unable to pay.
The Victor Herald, as an institution, owes him a debt beyond payment. Born, it would seem, with a gift for newspaper work, his interest in the local paper was unflagging, and he gave unsparingly of his time and thought for its upbuilding and secure establishment.
He was associated with the Ontario County Times, for many years as a correspondent in the days when to convey late information to the newspaper office meant a trip to the County Seat, and later as a traveling representative. In the latter capacity he contributed to its columns many valuable sketches of prominent citizens and interesting historical reminisciences.
John Wyman VanDenbergh was the son of Peter and Jeanette Fonda VanDenbergh, the youngest of a family of seven children. He was born in the town of Farmington, and until 1886, with the exception of five years, lived in Mendon, his home was upon the farm where he was born.
On September 21, 1859, Mr. VanDenbergh married Elvira Chambers of Mendon. In 1886, Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh moved to this village, and, except for three years, their home has been in the house at the junction of West Main, Cedar and High streets, in which he died.
Mr. VanDenbergh was a member of the Presbyterian church in this village and a regular attendant upon its services until physical disability made it impossible.
He was greatly interested in public affairs and was always found upon the side of progress and improvement. For several years he served upon the health board of the village.
During the past two years he had grown more and more feeble, being afflicted with a distressing chronic trouble, but he bore up under it with characteristic courage and stoicism, and was confined to his bed for but a few days.
Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. VanDenbergh, M. Estella, Raymond C. and Blanche E. The latter died in infancy. Surviving members of the family are the devoted wife and mother, the daughter and son, and three grandchildren, John Raymond, Estella Meryl, and Karl Nathan VanDenbergh.
The funeral services will be held from the home, Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock, the Rev. Frank W. Hill officiating. Interment will be made in the Village Cemetery.
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