"Mr. Joseph C. Taylor having been nominated by the 'Workingmen' for the office of Mayor of this city, that gentleman sent them the following letter of declension:
"TROY, Feb. 20, 1850.
"To the Mechanics and Workingmen of the City of Troy:
"GENT.! Having been notified of the honor conferred upon me by your Association in selecting me as a candidate for the office of Mayor of this city, permit me to say that the objects of your League are such as to enlist my most cordial approbation and warmest support; and, gentlemen, as you justly observe, the time has arrived when the workingmen, as citizens of this republic, should take a part in the framing and administering the laws by which they are governed and under which they live. The legislation of this State and of our sister States has been almost exclusively confined to benefiting the power of the monied interest under the name of capital,—forgetting that labor as labor is so much capital and as much entitled to the benefit of legislation as any other interest in our state or nation. To insure success to the league, there must be union and energy; to make our theories practiced and our influence felt, we must use the ballot box.
"Sympathizing as I do, gentlemen, with your organization, it is with regret that I feel myself compelled by the force of imperative circumstances to decline the honor you seek to confer on me. Trusting that you may find some worthier person to accept your nomination,
"I am your friend and fellow workingman,
"JOSEPH C. TAYLOR,"
"Mr. Joseph C. Taylor and the Workingmen." Troy Daily Whig. February 24, 1850: 2 col 5.
"This morning at his residence, Mr. JOSEPH C. TAYLOR, of Consumption.
"Funeral to-morrow at 3 o'clock, P.M., from hjs late residence, 106 River st., where the friends and acquaintances of the family are invited to attend."
"Died." Troy Daily Times. September 9, 1851: 3 col 1.
"It is our painful duty to announce the death of one our most respected and valuable citizens. JOSEPH C. TAYLOR expired at his residence in this city at 6 o'clock this morning. His age was forty-seven years.
"Although not unexpected, Mr. T. having been gradually sinking for many months under incurable consumption, the event brings grief to many hearts and sorrow to this whole community.
"If ever a man lived who enjoyed the undivided esteem—we may almost say love—of a whole community, that man was JOSEPH C. TAYLOR. We never heard of his having an enemy. Possessed of an amiable disposition, always devoted to works of benevolence, entering heart and hand into all public enterprises for the benefit of the city and the good of his fellow citizens, he was a citizen of unblemished moral worth and of great usefulness.
We have not the statistics at hand to give any thing like a sketch of Mr. T's biography. We give, however, such facts relating to it as we were enabled to gather this morning.
"Mr. TAYLOR was born in the town of Argyle, Washington co. He came to this city when only six years of age, and has resided here ever since. He entered into business in 1827. About the same time he joined the Fire Department, entering into the service as member of old Engine Co. No. 3, now Franklin Hose Co. He soon became Foreman of the company, and not long afterwards was promoted to the office of Chief Engineer, which station he held for nearly 20 years, performing its arduous duties with an efficiency which few have equaled and none surpassed—securing the respect of the whole Department, and maintaining the most harmonious relations among the different members thereof. Whenever any difficulties arose between companies or individuals in the Department, they were at once referred to Mr. TAYLOR, and he was sure to settle them peaceably and in a way to give satisfaction. No man had greater influence over those under his direction, than had Mr. T. over the Firemen. They rallied around him like brothers, and were proud to acknowledge him as Chief.
"Some five or six years ago, Mr. T. resigned his post of Chief Engineer, but in 1848 he was reelected to the office and a small salary voted to him by the Common Council. Prior to that time he had received not one penny from the city for his arduous, efficient and useful labors in the Department. Failing health and a broken constitution, which had been fairly worn out in the service of the city, compelled him in a few months again to resign the office of Chief Engineer—since which time he has been gradually sinking until now he is gathered to the home of this fathers.
"Mr. TAYLOR held the office of Sealer of Weights and Measures in this city for a period of eighteen years in succession, having been annually re-appointed by the Common Council. Although the majority of the present Board was politically opposed to him, he was unanimously re-elected to the office he had so long held and the duties of which he had performed so satisfactorily—such was the respect entertained for the man and the appreciation of his merits. And when, a few weeks ago, he sent in his resignation to the Board, that body unanimously adopted a resolution warmly complimenting him for his faithfulness as a public officer and his moral excellence as a man.
"Mr. T. was a beloved brother of the Masonic Fraternity, and squared his life by the golden rule of doing unto others as he would be done by. He was a consistent Christian—a member of the North Baptist Church since its opening eight years ago,—and during that time he has held the office of Deacon of the Society.
"We have thus, at some length, spoken of an honored citizen, a true friend and a consistent Christian, who has been called to his home in Heaven. The influence of his whol life has been on the side of moral uprightness. Let his virtue be emulated, while his memory is cherished with bright and continued remembrance!
"Mr. TAYLOR's Funeral will take place from the residence of his family, No. 106 River street, to-morrow (Wednesday) afternoon at 3 o'clock. he will be buried with Masonic Honors."
"Death of Joseph C. Taylor." Troy Daily Times. September 9, 1851: 2 col 2.
"In accordance with the call in the city papers a large a respectable number of citizens and Firemen assembled at the Court House last evening to make arrangements for the erection of a suitable monument to the memory of JOSEPH C. TAYLOR, W.F. BRADLEY, THOMAS [PETER] DUNN and THOMAS H. PEIRCE.
"On motion, Jonas C. Heartt was called to the Chair, and Alfred A. Wotkyns appointed Secretary.
"On a motion of W.E. Hagen, it was Resolved, That a committee of citizens chosen from the exempt Firemen of the city be appointed by the meeting to act as Trustees for all monies collected—to receive plans and specifications, and contract for the construction of a suitable monument, as a testimonial of the just appreciation with which their fellow-Firemen held in remembrance the services of JOSEPH C. TAYLOR, WILLIAM F. BRADLEY, THOS. H. PEIRCE, and THOMAS DUNN, who sacrificed their lives in doing their duties.
"On motion, Daniel Southwick, Jonas C. Heartt, D. Bryan Cox, Thomas Coleman and John P. Nazro, were appointed to act as Trustees, &c.
"On motion of Ald. Starbuck, it was further
"Resolved, That a Sub-Committee of two from each Company, be chosen by the Companies, to collect subscriptions; and that the several Companies appoint the same and report at the next meeting.
"On motion, adjourned until Friday, the 18th, at 8 o'clock. JONAS C. HEARTT, Chairman.
"ALFD. A. WOTKYNS, Secretary."
"Home Matters." Troy Daily Times. June 11, 1852: 2 col 2.
"The committee of the Fire Department Trustees on the subject of erecting a monument to the late Joseph C. TAYLOR, have invited designs from the different marble-cutters and will award the plans on the 10th of August."
"Briefs." Troy Daily Times. August 3, 1860. http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~nyrensse/troydt22.htm
"Some time ago the Trustees of the Fire Department erected a monument to the memory of the late Joseph C. Taylor, the well-remembered Chief Engineer of former days. Quite recently the Trustees found that the lot in which the monument was placed, was out of repair, whereupon they made another appropriation to restore it to a condition worthy of the memorial that it contained. This work has just been completed, under the direction of Trustees Hagadorn, McKeon and Hotchkin, the Committee appropriated for that purpose. It renders the lot and monument an ornament to the Mount Ida Cemetery. The improvements consist of a handsome fence, which is in every way creditable to Messrs. Higgins, Canneil & Co. who erected it, the resodding of the ground, and the repair of the stones over the graves of Mr. Taylor's family. The good taste and zealous labors of the excellent Superintendent of the Cemetery, Mr. G. W. Chamberlain, are visible in the improvement. Mr. C takes a commendable pride in the good order of the grounds, and has deemed this public token of the appreciation of the firemen towards their former Chief, worthy of his special attention. There are few spots in this 'silent city of the dead' of more marked interest than the Taylor monument and lot, near the main entrance. We trust the firemen will never suffer them to be neglected."
"The Joseph C. Taylor Monument." Troy Daily Whig. August 26, 1861: 3 col 3.
"The exempt firemen's association held last evening its quarterly meeting. It was decided to have the firemen's monument at the grave of ex-Chief Taylor, in the Mount Ida cemetery, repolished. An appropriation was made for the work, and Charles W. Peoble was appointed to take charge of the matter. Three new members were elected, and another name was proposed. About $140 was collected last night."
Troy Daily Times. July 15, 1890: 3 col 3.
"The firemen of this section have asked that some action be taken in regard to the neglected condition of the monument in old Mount Ida Cemetery to the late Joseph C. Taylor, who was the first Fire Chief of the city. He died September ?, 1851, and the fire department placed a monument to his memory. It was inclosed with an iron railing and stone gate-posts. The railing is practically leveled, while the gate-posts are in a very bad condition. The firemen claim that the Exempt Firemen's Association is supposed to give the monument perpetual care. Superintendent Dwyer has ? attention to the matter several times."
"The East Side; Firemen Protest Against Neglect of Chief's Monument." Troy Times. December 6, 1913: 11 col 1.
"THIS INTERESTING MONUMENT in old Mt. Ida Cemetery on Pawling Avenue was spotted recently by photographer Gene Baxter. The inscription reads: "Joseph C. Taylor died Sept. 9, 1851, aged 43 years. An honest man, an efficient chief engineer. Erected by the Fire Department of Troy.
"A glance at Arthur Weise's History of the Firemen and Fire Departments of Troy, N.Y., produced this information:
"The annual inspection of the Fire Department Saturday afternoon, Aug. 29, 1846, in Washington Square (now Monument Square), was witnessed by a large number of citizens. Eight engines and five hose carts were out. All in perfect order, together with a strong muster of the hook and ladder branch of the department....
"A trial of the engines was most satisfactory. They all proved to be in very efficient condition and were admirably worked. Engines 7 and 10 threw steams to extraordinary heights. The Troy Brass Band furnished the music. Joseph C. Taylor, who had served the department as chief engineer from March 14, 1843, to March 10, 1846, was presented a valuable gold watch and chain. Hiram D. Pierce, president of the board of trustees of the department, made the presentation speech from a temporary platform of fire ladders.
"On the inner case of the watch was inscribed: 'Presented to Joseph C. Taylor, former chief engineer of the Fire Department of Troy, by the firemen Aug. 29, 1846.'
"The book did not record the speech or the reasons why Taylor deserved such honors. Chief engineers in those days were fire chiefs."
The Record [Troy, NY]. January 10, 1970: B20 cols 1-2.
"TROY, Feb. 20, 1850.
"To the Mechanics and Workingmen of the City of Troy:
"GENT.! Having been notified of the honor conferred upon me by your Association in selecting me as a candidate for the office of Mayor of this city, permit me to say that the objects of your League are such as to enlist my most cordial approbation and warmest support; and, gentlemen, as you justly observe, the time has arrived when the workingmen, as citizens of this republic, should take a part in the framing and administering the laws by which they are governed and under which they live. The legislation of this State and of our sister States has been almost exclusively confined to benefiting the power of the monied interest under the name of capital,—forgetting that labor as labor is so much capital and as much entitled to the benefit of legislation as any other interest in our state or nation. To insure success to the league, there must be union and energy; to make our theories practiced and our influence felt, we must use the ballot box.
"Sympathizing as I do, gentlemen, with your organization, it is with regret that I feel myself compelled by the force of imperative circumstances to decline the honor you seek to confer on me. Trusting that you may find some worthier person to accept your nomination,
"I am your friend and fellow workingman,
"JOSEPH C. TAYLOR,"
"Mr. Joseph C. Taylor and the Workingmen." Troy Daily Whig. February 24, 1850: 2 col 5.
"This morning at his residence, Mr. JOSEPH C. TAYLOR, of Consumption.
"Funeral to-morrow at 3 o'clock, P.M., from hjs late residence, 106 River st., where the friends and acquaintances of the family are invited to attend."
"Died." Troy Daily Times. September 9, 1851: 3 col 1.
"It is our painful duty to announce the death of one our most respected and valuable citizens. JOSEPH C. TAYLOR expired at his residence in this city at 6 o'clock this morning. His age was forty-seven years.
"Although not unexpected, Mr. T. having been gradually sinking for many months under incurable consumption, the event brings grief to many hearts and sorrow to this whole community.
"If ever a man lived who enjoyed the undivided esteem—we may almost say love—of a whole community, that man was JOSEPH C. TAYLOR. We never heard of his having an enemy. Possessed of an amiable disposition, always devoted to works of benevolence, entering heart and hand into all public enterprises for the benefit of the city and the good of his fellow citizens, he was a citizen of unblemished moral worth and of great usefulness.
We have not the statistics at hand to give any thing like a sketch of Mr. T's biography. We give, however, such facts relating to it as we were enabled to gather this morning.
"Mr. TAYLOR was born in the town of Argyle, Washington co. He came to this city when only six years of age, and has resided here ever since. He entered into business in 1827. About the same time he joined the Fire Department, entering into the service as member of old Engine Co. No. 3, now Franklin Hose Co. He soon became Foreman of the company, and not long afterwards was promoted to the office of Chief Engineer, which station he held for nearly 20 years, performing its arduous duties with an efficiency which few have equaled and none surpassed—securing the respect of the whole Department, and maintaining the most harmonious relations among the different members thereof. Whenever any difficulties arose between companies or individuals in the Department, they were at once referred to Mr. TAYLOR, and he was sure to settle them peaceably and in a way to give satisfaction. No man had greater influence over those under his direction, than had Mr. T. over the Firemen. They rallied around him like brothers, and were proud to acknowledge him as Chief.
"Some five or six years ago, Mr. T. resigned his post of Chief Engineer, but in 1848 he was reelected to the office and a small salary voted to him by the Common Council. Prior to that time he had received not one penny from the city for his arduous, efficient and useful labors in the Department. Failing health and a broken constitution, which had been fairly worn out in the service of the city, compelled him in a few months again to resign the office of Chief Engineer—since which time he has been gradually sinking until now he is gathered to the home of this fathers.
"Mr. TAYLOR held the office of Sealer of Weights and Measures in this city for a period of eighteen years in succession, having been annually re-appointed by the Common Council. Although the majority of the present Board was politically opposed to him, he was unanimously re-elected to the office he had so long held and the duties of which he had performed so satisfactorily—such was the respect entertained for the man and the appreciation of his merits. And when, a few weeks ago, he sent in his resignation to the Board, that body unanimously adopted a resolution warmly complimenting him for his faithfulness as a public officer and his moral excellence as a man.
"Mr. T. was a beloved brother of the Masonic Fraternity, and squared his life by the golden rule of doing unto others as he would be done by. He was a consistent Christian—a member of the North Baptist Church since its opening eight years ago,—and during that time he has held the office of Deacon of the Society.
"We have thus, at some length, spoken of an honored citizen, a true friend and a consistent Christian, who has been called to his home in Heaven. The influence of his whol life has been on the side of moral uprightness. Let his virtue be emulated, while his memory is cherished with bright and continued remembrance!
"Mr. TAYLOR's Funeral will take place from the residence of his family, No. 106 River street, to-morrow (Wednesday) afternoon at 3 o'clock. he will be buried with Masonic Honors."
"Death of Joseph C. Taylor." Troy Daily Times. September 9, 1851: 2 col 2.
"In accordance with the call in the city papers a large a respectable number of citizens and Firemen assembled at the Court House last evening to make arrangements for the erection of a suitable monument to the memory of JOSEPH C. TAYLOR, W.F. BRADLEY, THOMAS [PETER] DUNN and THOMAS H. PEIRCE.
"On motion, Jonas C. Heartt was called to the Chair, and Alfred A. Wotkyns appointed Secretary.
"On a motion of W.E. Hagen, it was Resolved, That a committee of citizens chosen from the exempt Firemen of the city be appointed by the meeting to act as Trustees for all monies collected—to receive plans and specifications, and contract for the construction of a suitable monument, as a testimonial of the just appreciation with which their fellow-Firemen held in remembrance the services of JOSEPH C. TAYLOR, WILLIAM F. BRADLEY, THOS. H. PEIRCE, and THOMAS DUNN, who sacrificed their lives in doing their duties.
"On motion, Daniel Southwick, Jonas C. Heartt, D. Bryan Cox, Thomas Coleman and John P. Nazro, were appointed to act as Trustees, &c.
"On motion of Ald. Starbuck, it was further
"Resolved, That a Sub-Committee of two from each Company, be chosen by the Companies, to collect subscriptions; and that the several Companies appoint the same and report at the next meeting.
"On motion, adjourned until Friday, the 18th, at 8 o'clock. JONAS C. HEARTT, Chairman.
"ALFD. A. WOTKYNS, Secretary."
"Home Matters." Troy Daily Times. June 11, 1852: 2 col 2.
"The committee of the Fire Department Trustees on the subject of erecting a monument to the late Joseph C. TAYLOR, have invited designs from the different marble-cutters and will award the plans on the 10th of August."
"Briefs." Troy Daily Times. August 3, 1860. http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~nyrensse/troydt22.htm
"Some time ago the Trustees of the Fire Department erected a monument to the memory of the late Joseph C. Taylor, the well-remembered Chief Engineer of former days. Quite recently the Trustees found that the lot in which the monument was placed, was out of repair, whereupon they made another appropriation to restore it to a condition worthy of the memorial that it contained. This work has just been completed, under the direction of Trustees Hagadorn, McKeon and Hotchkin, the Committee appropriated for that purpose. It renders the lot and monument an ornament to the Mount Ida Cemetery. The improvements consist of a handsome fence, which is in every way creditable to Messrs. Higgins, Canneil & Co. who erected it, the resodding of the ground, and the repair of the stones over the graves of Mr. Taylor's family. The good taste and zealous labors of the excellent Superintendent of the Cemetery, Mr. G. W. Chamberlain, are visible in the improvement. Mr. C takes a commendable pride in the good order of the grounds, and has deemed this public token of the appreciation of the firemen towards their former Chief, worthy of his special attention. There are few spots in this 'silent city of the dead' of more marked interest than the Taylor monument and lot, near the main entrance. We trust the firemen will never suffer them to be neglected."
"The Joseph C. Taylor Monument." Troy Daily Whig. August 26, 1861: 3 col 3.
"The exempt firemen's association held last evening its quarterly meeting. It was decided to have the firemen's monument at the grave of ex-Chief Taylor, in the Mount Ida cemetery, repolished. An appropriation was made for the work, and Charles W. Peoble was appointed to take charge of the matter. Three new members were elected, and another name was proposed. About $140 was collected last night."
Troy Daily Times. July 15, 1890: 3 col 3.
"The firemen of this section have asked that some action be taken in regard to the neglected condition of the monument in old Mount Ida Cemetery to the late Joseph C. Taylor, who was the first Fire Chief of the city. He died September ?, 1851, and the fire department placed a monument to his memory. It was inclosed with an iron railing and stone gate-posts. The railing is practically leveled, while the gate-posts are in a very bad condition. The firemen claim that the Exempt Firemen's Association is supposed to give the monument perpetual care. Superintendent Dwyer has ? attention to the matter several times."
"The East Side; Firemen Protest Against Neglect of Chief's Monument." Troy Times. December 6, 1913: 11 col 1.
"THIS INTERESTING MONUMENT in old Mt. Ida Cemetery on Pawling Avenue was spotted recently by photographer Gene Baxter. The inscription reads: "Joseph C. Taylor died Sept. 9, 1851, aged 43 years. An honest man, an efficient chief engineer. Erected by the Fire Department of Troy.
"A glance at Arthur Weise's History of the Firemen and Fire Departments of Troy, N.Y., produced this information:
"The annual inspection of the Fire Department Saturday afternoon, Aug. 29, 1846, in Washington Square (now Monument Square), was witnessed by a large number of citizens. Eight engines and five hose carts were out. All in perfect order, together with a strong muster of the hook and ladder branch of the department....
"A trial of the engines was most satisfactory. They all proved to be in very efficient condition and were admirably worked. Engines 7 and 10 threw steams to extraordinary heights. The Troy Brass Band furnished the music. Joseph C. Taylor, who had served the department as chief engineer from March 14, 1843, to March 10, 1846, was presented a valuable gold watch and chain. Hiram D. Pierce, president of the board of trustees of the department, made the presentation speech from a temporary platform of fire ladders.
"On the inner case of the watch was inscribed: 'Presented to Joseph C. Taylor, former chief engineer of the Fire Department of Troy, by the firemen Aug. 29, 1846.'
"The book did not record the speech or the reasons why Taylor deserved such honors. Chief engineers in those days were fire chiefs."
The Record [Troy, NY]. January 10, 1970: B20 cols 1-2.
"Mr. Joseph C. Taylor having been nominated by the 'Workingmen' for the office of Mayor of this city, that gentleman sent them the following letter of declension:
"TROY, Feb. 20, 1850.
"To the Mechanics and Workingmen of the City of Troy:
"GENT.! Having been notified of the honor conferred upon me by your Association in selecting me as a candidate for the office of Mayor of this city, permit me to say that the objects of your League are such as to enlist my most cordial approbation and warmest support; and, gentlemen, as you justly observe, the time has arrived when the workingmen, as citizens of this republic, should take a part in the framing and administering the laws by which they are governed and under which they live. The legislation of this State and of our sister States has been almost exclusively confined to benefiting the power of the monied interest under the name of capital,—forgetting that labor as labor is so much capital and as much entitled to the benefit of legislation as any other interest in our state or nation. To insure success to the league, there must be union and energy; to make our theories practiced and our influence felt, we must use the ballot box.
"Sympathizing as I do, gentlemen, with your organization, it is with regret that I feel myself compelled by the force of imperative circumstances to decline the honor you seek to confer on me. Trusting that you may find some worthier person to accept your nomination,
"I am your friend and fellow workingman,
"JOSEPH C. TAYLOR,"
"Mr. Joseph C. Taylor and the Workingmen." Troy Daily Whig. February 24, 1850: 2 col 5.
"This morning at his residence, Mr. JOSEPH C. TAYLOR, of Consumption.
"Funeral to-morrow at 3 o'clock, P.M., from hjs late residence, 106 River st., where the friends and acquaintances of the family are invited to attend."
"Died." Troy Daily Times. September 9, 1851: 3 col 1.
"It is our painful duty to announce the death of one our most respected and valuable citizens. JOSEPH C. TAYLOR expired at his residence in this city at 6 o'clock this morning. His age was forty-seven years.
"Although not unexpected, Mr. T. having been gradually sinking for many months under incurable consumption, the event brings grief to many hearts and sorrow to this whole community.
"If ever a man lived who enjoyed the undivided esteem—we may almost say love—of a whole community, that man was JOSEPH C. TAYLOR. We never heard of his having an enemy. Possessed of an amiable disposition, always devoted to works of benevolence, entering heart and hand into all public enterprises for the benefit of the city and the good of his fellow citizens, he was a citizen of unblemished moral worth and of great usefulness.
We have not the statistics at hand to give any thing like a sketch of Mr. T's biography. We give, however, such facts relating to it as we were enabled to gather this morning.
"Mr. TAYLOR was born in the town of Argyle, Washington co. He came to this city when only six years of age, and has resided here ever since. He entered into business in 1827. About the same time he joined the Fire Department, entering into the service as member of old Engine Co. No. 3, now Franklin Hose Co. He soon became Foreman of the company, and not long afterwards was promoted to the office of Chief Engineer, which station he held for nearly 20 years, performing its arduous duties with an efficiency which few have equaled and none surpassed—securing the respect of the whole Department, and maintaining the most harmonious relations among the different members thereof. Whenever any difficulties arose between companies or individuals in the Department, they were at once referred to Mr. TAYLOR, and he was sure to settle them peaceably and in a way to give satisfaction. No man had greater influence over those under his direction, than had Mr. T. over the Firemen. They rallied around him like brothers, and were proud to acknowledge him as Chief.
"Some five or six years ago, Mr. T. resigned his post of Chief Engineer, but in 1848 he was reelected to the office and a small salary voted to him by the Common Council. Prior to that time he had received not one penny from the city for his arduous, efficient and useful labors in the Department. Failing health and a broken constitution, which had been fairly worn out in the service of the city, compelled him in a few months again to resign the office of Chief Engineer—since which time he has been gradually sinking until now he is gathered to the home of this fathers.
"Mr. TAYLOR held the office of Sealer of Weights and Measures in this city for a period of eighteen years in succession, having been annually re-appointed by the Common Council. Although the majority of the present Board was politically opposed to him, he was unanimously re-elected to the office he had so long held and the duties of which he had performed so satisfactorily—such was the respect entertained for the man and the appreciation of his merits. And when, a few weeks ago, he sent in his resignation to the Board, that body unanimously adopted a resolution warmly complimenting him for his faithfulness as a public officer and his moral excellence as a man.
"Mr. T. was a beloved brother of the Masonic Fraternity, and squared his life by the golden rule of doing unto others as he would be done by. He was a consistent Christian—a member of the North Baptist Church since its opening eight years ago,—and during that time he has held the office of Deacon of the Society.
"We have thus, at some length, spoken of an honored citizen, a true friend and a consistent Christian, who has been called to his home in Heaven. The influence of his whol life has been on the side of moral uprightness. Let his virtue be emulated, while his memory is cherished with bright and continued remembrance!
"Mr. TAYLOR's Funeral will take place from the residence of his family, No. 106 River street, to-morrow (Wednesday) afternoon at 3 o'clock. he will be buried with Masonic Honors."
"Death of Joseph C. Taylor." Troy Daily Times. September 9, 1851: 2 col 2.
"In accordance with the call in the city papers a large a respectable number of citizens and Firemen assembled at the Court House last evening to make arrangements for the erection of a suitable monument to the memory of JOSEPH C. TAYLOR, W.F. BRADLEY, THOMAS [PETER] DUNN and THOMAS H. PEIRCE.
"On motion, Jonas C. Heartt was called to the Chair, and Alfred A. Wotkyns appointed Secretary.
"On a motion of W.E. Hagen, it was Resolved, That a committee of citizens chosen from the exempt Firemen of the city be appointed by the meeting to act as Trustees for all monies collected—to receive plans and specifications, and contract for the construction of a suitable monument, as a testimonial of the just appreciation with which their fellow-Firemen held in remembrance the services of JOSEPH C. TAYLOR, WILLIAM F. BRADLEY, THOS. H. PEIRCE, and THOMAS DUNN, who sacrificed their lives in doing their duties.
"On motion, Daniel Southwick, Jonas C. Heartt, D. Bryan Cox, Thomas Coleman and John P. Nazro, were appointed to act as Trustees, &c.
"On motion of Ald. Starbuck, it was further
"Resolved, That a Sub-Committee of two from each Company, be chosen by the Companies, to collect subscriptions; and that the several Companies appoint the same and report at the next meeting.
"On motion, adjourned until Friday, the 18th, at 8 o'clock. JONAS C. HEARTT, Chairman.
"ALFD. A. WOTKYNS, Secretary."
"Home Matters." Troy Daily Times. June 11, 1852: 2 col 2.
"The committee of the Fire Department Trustees on the subject of erecting a monument to the late Joseph C. TAYLOR, have invited designs from the different marble-cutters and will award the plans on the 10th of August."
"Briefs." Troy Daily Times. August 3, 1860. http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~nyrensse/troydt22.htm
"Some time ago the Trustees of the Fire Department erected a monument to the memory of the late Joseph C. Taylor, the well-remembered Chief Engineer of former days. Quite recently the Trustees found that the lot in which the monument was placed, was out of repair, whereupon they made another appropriation to restore it to a condition worthy of the memorial that it contained. This work has just been completed, under the direction of Trustees Hagadorn, McKeon and Hotchkin, the Committee appropriated for that purpose. It renders the lot and monument an ornament to the Mount Ida Cemetery. The improvements consist of a handsome fence, which is in every way creditable to Messrs. Higgins, Canneil & Co. who erected it, the resodding of the ground, and the repair of the stones over the graves of Mr. Taylor's family. The good taste and zealous labors of the excellent Superintendent of the Cemetery, Mr. G. W. Chamberlain, are visible in the improvement. Mr. C takes a commendable pride in the good order of the grounds, and has deemed this public token of the appreciation of the firemen towards their former Chief, worthy of his special attention. There are few spots in this 'silent city of the dead' of more marked interest than the Taylor monument and lot, near the main entrance. We trust the firemen will never suffer them to be neglected."
"The Joseph C. Taylor Monument." Troy Daily Whig. August 26, 1861: 3 col 3.
"The exempt firemen's association held last evening its quarterly meeting. It was decided to have the firemen's monument at the grave of ex-Chief Taylor, in the Mount Ida cemetery, repolished. An appropriation was made for the work, and Charles W. Peoble was appointed to take charge of the matter. Three new members were elected, and another name was proposed. About $140 was collected last night."
Troy Daily Times. July 15, 1890: 3 col 3.
"The firemen of this section have asked that some action be taken in regard to the neglected condition of the monument in old Mount Ida Cemetery to the late Joseph C. Taylor, who was the first Fire Chief of the city. He died September ?, 1851, and the fire department placed a monument to his memory. It was inclosed with an iron railing and stone gate-posts. The railing is practically leveled, while the gate-posts are in a very bad condition. The firemen claim that the Exempt Firemen's Association is supposed to give the monument perpetual care. Superintendent Dwyer has ? attention to the matter several times."
"The East Side; Firemen Protest Against Neglect of Chief's Monument." Troy Times. December 6, 1913: 11 col 1.
"THIS INTERESTING MONUMENT in old Mt. Ida Cemetery on Pawling Avenue was spotted recently by photographer Gene Baxter. The inscription reads: "Joseph C. Taylor died Sept. 9, 1851, aged 43 years. An honest man, an efficient chief engineer. Erected by the Fire Department of Troy.
"A glance at Arthur Weise's History of the Firemen and Fire Departments of Troy, N.Y., produced this information:
"The annual inspection of the Fire Department Saturday afternoon, Aug. 29, 1846, in Washington Square (now Monument Square), was witnessed by a large number of citizens. Eight engines and five hose carts were out. All in perfect order, together with a strong muster of the hook and ladder branch of the department....
"A trial of the engines was most satisfactory. They all proved to be in very efficient condition and were admirably worked. Engines 7 and 10 threw steams to extraordinary heights. The Troy Brass Band furnished the music. Joseph C. Taylor, who had served the department as chief engineer from March 14, 1843, to March 10, 1846, was presented a valuable gold watch and chain. Hiram D. Pierce, president of the board of trustees of the department, made the presentation speech from a temporary platform of fire ladders.
"On the inner case of the watch was inscribed: 'Presented to Joseph C. Taylor, former chief engineer of the Fire Department of Troy, by the firemen Aug. 29, 1846.'
"The book did not record the speech or the reasons why Taylor deserved such honors. Chief engineers in those days were fire chiefs."
The Record [Troy, NY]. January 10, 1970: B20 cols 1-2.
"TROY, Feb. 20, 1850.
"To the Mechanics and Workingmen of the City of Troy:
"GENT.! Having been notified of the honor conferred upon me by your Association in selecting me as a candidate for the office of Mayor of this city, permit me to say that the objects of your League are such as to enlist my most cordial approbation and warmest support; and, gentlemen, as you justly observe, the time has arrived when the workingmen, as citizens of this republic, should take a part in the framing and administering the laws by which they are governed and under which they live. The legislation of this State and of our sister States has been almost exclusively confined to benefiting the power of the monied interest under the name of capital,—forgetting that labor as labor is so much capital and as much entitled to the benefit of legislation as any other interest in our state or nation. To insure success to the league, there must be union and energy; to make our theories practiced and our influence felt, we must use the ballot box.
"Sympathizing as I do, gentlemen, with your organization, it is with regret that I feel myself compelled by the force of imperative circumstances to decline the honor you seek to confer on me. Trusting that you may find some worthier person to accept your nomination,
"I am your friend and fellow workingman,
"JOSEPH C. TAYLOR,"
"Mr. Joseph C. Taylor and the Workingmen." Troy Daily Whig. February 24, 1850: 2 col 5.
"This morning at his residence, Mr. JOSEPH C. TAYLOR, of Consumption.
"Funeral to-morrow at 3 o'clock, P.M., from hjs late residence, 106 River st., where the friends and acquaintances of the family are invited to attend."
"Died." Troy Daily Times. September 9, 1851: 3 col 1.
"It is our painful duty to announce the death of one our most respected and valuable citizens. JOSEPH C. TAYLOR expired at his residence in this city at 6 o'clock this morning. His age was forty-seven years.
"Although not unexpected, Mr. T. having been gradually sinking for many months under incurable consumption, the event brings grief to many hearts and sorrow to this whole community.
"If ever a man lived who enjoyed the undivided esteem—we may almost say love—of a whole community, that man was JOSEPH C. TAYLOR. We never heard of his having an enemy. Possessed of an amiable disposition, always devoted to works of benevolence, entering heart and hand into all public enterprises for the benefit of the city and the good of his fellow citizens, he was a citizen of unblemished moral worth and of great usefulness.
We have not the statistics at hand to give any thing like a sketch of Mr. T's biography. We give, however, such facts relating to it as we were enabled to gather this morning.
"Mr. TAYLOR was born in the town of Argyle, Washington co. He came to this city when only six years of age, and has resided here ever since. He entered into business in 1827. About the same time he joined the Fire Department, entering into the service as member of old Engine Co. No. 3, now Franklin Hose Co. He soon became Foreman of the company, and not long afterwards was promoted to the office of Chief Engineer, which station he held for nearly 20 years, performing its arduous duties with an efficiency which few have equaled and none surpassed—securing the respect of the whole Department, and maintaining the most harmonious relations among the different members thereof. Whenever any difficulties arose between companies or individuals in the Department, they were at once referred to Mr. TAYLOR, and he was sure to settle them peaceably and in a way to give satisfaction. No man had greater influence over those under his direction, than had Mr. T. over the Firemen. They rallied around him like brothers, and were proud to acknowledge him as Chief.
"Some five or six years ago, Mr. T. resigned his post of Chief Engineer, but in 1848 he was reelected to the office and a small salary voted to him by the Common Council. Prior to that time he had received not one penny from the city for his arduous, efficient and useful labors in the Department. Failing health and a broken constitution, which had been fairly worn out in the service of the city, compelled him in a few months again to resign the office of Chief Engineer—since which time he has been gradually sinking until now he is gathered to the home of this fathers.
"Mr. TAYLOR held the office of Sealer of Weights and Measures in this city for a period of eighteen years in succession, having been annually re-appointed by the Common Council. Although the majority of the present Board was politically opposed to him, he was unanimously re-elected to the office he had so long held and the duties of which he had performed so satisfactorily—such was the respect entertained for the man and the appreciation of his merits. And when, a few weeks ago, he sent in his resignation to the Board, that body unanimously adopted a resolution warmly complimenting him for his faithfulness as a public officer and his moral excellence as a man.
"Mr. T. was a beloved brother of the Masonic Fraternity, and squared his life by the golden rule of doing unto others as he would be done by. He was a consistent Christian—a member of the North Baptist Church since its opening eight years ago,—and during that time he has held the office of Deacon of the Society.
"We have thus, at some length, spoken of an honored citizen, a true friend and a consistent Christian, who has been called to his home in Heaven. The influence of his whol life has been on the side of moral uprightness. Let his virtue be emulated, while his memory is cherished with bright and continued remembrance!
"Mr. TAYLOR's Funeral will take place from the residence of his family, No. 106 River street, to-morrow (Wednesday) afternoon at 3 o'clock. he will be buried with Masonic Honors."
"Death of Joseph C. Taylor." Troy Daily Times. September 9, 1851: 2 col 2.
"In accordance with the call in the city papers a large a respectable number of citizens and Firemen assembled at the Court House last evening to make arrangements for the erection of a suitable monument to the memory of JOSEPH C. TAYLOR, W.F. BRADLEY, THOMAS [PETER] DUNN and THOMAS H. PEIRCE.
"On motion, Jonas C. Heartt was called to the Chair, and Alfred A. Wotkyns appointed Secretary.
"On a motion of W.E. Hagen, it was Resolved, That a committee of citizens chosen from the exempt Firemen of the city be appointed by the meeting to act as Trustees for all monies collected—to receive plans and specifications, and contract for the construction of a suitable monument, as a testimonial of the just appreciation with which their fellow-Firemen held in remembrance the services of JOSEPH C. TAYLOR, WILLIAM F. BRADLEY, THOS. H. PEIRCE, and THOMAS DUNN, who sacrificed their lives in doing their duties.
"On motion, Daniel Southwick, Jonas C. Heartt, D. Bryan Cox, Thomas Coleman and John P. Nazro, were appointed to act as Trustees, &c.
"On motion of Ald. Starbuck, it was further
"Resolved, That a Sub-Committee of two from each Company, be chosen by the Companies, to collect subscriptions; and that the several Companies appoint the same and report at the next meeting.
"On motion, adjourned until Friday, the 18th, at 8 o'clock. JONAS C. HEARTT, Chairman.
"ALFD. A. WOTKYNS, Secretary."
"Home Matters." Troy Daily Times. June 11, 1852: 2 col 2.
"The committee of the Fire Department Trustees on the subject of erecting a monument to the late Joseph C. TAYLOR, have invited designs from the different marble-cutters and will award the plans on the 10th of August."
"Briefs." Troy Daily Times. August 3, 1860. http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~nyrensse/troydt22.htm
"Some time ago the Trustees of the Fire Department erected a monument to the memory of the late Joseph C. Taylor, the well-remembered Chief Engineer of former days. Quite recently the Trustees found that the lot in which the monument was placed, was out of repair, whereupon they made another appropriation to restore it to a condition worthy of the memorial that it contained. This work has just been completed, under the direction of Trustees Hagadorn, McKeon and Hotchkin, the Committee appropriated for that purpose. It renders the lot and monument an ornament to the Mount Ida Cemetery. The improvements consist of a handsome fence, which is in every way creditable to Messrs. Higgins, Canneil & Co. who erected it, the resodding of the ground, and the repair of the stones over the graves of Mr. Taylor's family. The good taste and zealous labors of the excellent Superintendent of the Cemetery, Mr. G. W. Chamberlain, are visible in the improvement. Mr. C takes a commendable pride in the good order of the grounds, and has deemed this public token of the appreciation of the firemen towards their former Chief, worthy of his special attention. There are few spots in this 'silent city of the dead' of more marked interest than the Taylor monument and lot, near the main entrance. We trust the firemen will never suffer them to be neglected."
"The Joseph C. Taylor Monument." Troy Daily Whig. August 26, 1861: 3 col 3.
"The exempt firemen's association held last evening its quarterly meeting. It was decided to have the firemen's monument at the grave of ex-Chief Taylor, in the Mount Ida cemetery, repolished. An appropriation was made for the work, and Charles W. Peoble was appointed to take charge of the matter. Three new members were elected, and another name was proposed. About $140 was collected last night."
Troy Daily Times. July 15, 1890: 3 col 3.
"The firemen of this section have asked that some action be taken in regard to the neglected condition of the monument in old Mount Ida Cemetery to the late Joseph C. Taylor, who was the first Fire Chief of the city. He died September ?, 1851, and the fire department placed a monument to his memory. It was inclosed with an iron railing and stone gate-posts. The railing is practically leveled, while the gate-posts are in a very bad condition. The firemen claim that the Exempt Firemen's Association is supposed to give the monument perpetual care. Superintendent Dwyer has ? attention to the matter several times."
"The East Side; Firemen Protest Against Neglect of Chief's Monument." Troy Times. December 6, 1913: 11 col 1.
"THIS INTERESTING MONUMENT in old Mt. Ida Cemetery on Pawling Avenue was spotted recently by photographer Gene Baxter. The inscription reads: "Joseph C. Taylor died Sept. 9, 1851, aged 43 years. An honest man, an efficient chief engineer. Erected by the Fire Department of Troy.
"A glance at Arthur Weise's History of the Firemen and Fire Departments of Troy, N.Y., produced this information:
"The annual inspection of the Fire Department Saturday afternoon, Aug. 29, 1846, in Washington Square (now Monument Square), was witnessed by a large number of citizens. Eight engines and five hose carts were out. All in perfect order, together with a strong muster of the hook and ladder branch of the department....
"A trial of the engines was most satisfactory. They all proved to be in very efficient condition and were admirably worked. Engines 7 and 10 threw steams to extraordinary heights. The Troy Brass Band furnished the music. Joseph C. Taylor, who had served the department as chief engineer from March 14, 1843, to March 10, 1846, was presented a valuable gold watch and chain. Hiram D. Pierce, president of the board of trustees of the department, made the presentation speech from a temporary platform of fire ladders.
"On the inner case of the watch was inscribed: 'Presented to Joseph C. Taylor, former chief engineer of the Fire Department of Troy, by the firemen Aug. 29, 1846.'
"The book did not record the speech or the reasons why Taylor deserved such honors. Chief engineers in those days were fire chiefs."
The Record [Troy, NY]. January 10, 1970: B20 cols 1-2.
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