The wedding of Rebecca Birdsall to David H. Brown as described in THE TELEPHONE dated Friday, Mar 23, 1883:
Last Wednesday evening, about four o'clock, numerous relatives gathered at "The Mansion," the residence of Debora Birdsall, to witness the marriage ceremony which was to unite that estimable lady's estimable daughter, Rebecca, to David H. Brown, brother of the TELEPHONE Man [Yardley T. Brown]. The specious parlor was well filled with interested friends when the contracting couple, preceeded by their attendants, entered the room, and taking a position under a floral arch, from which hung an evergreen horseshoe, repeated the beautiful and concise ceremony of the Society of Friends, in a manner which seemed to imply that they meant what they said. The Bride was attired in a very pretty slate colored silk dress, with white flowers, and the Groom was clad in a suit of black.
The Bride was as sweetly-modest as a violet and the Groom was as gracefully good-looking as he could be (which did very well for a Brown) and together, they presented a very good appearance. The attendants were C. W. Birdsall and Ella Brown and Howard Hoge and Eliza Birdsall, all of whom looked their prettiest and did their best--which was first-rate.
After the ceremony, the smiling couple were the recipients of many compliments and good wishes from their many friends present. The continual hum of merry voices and the varied lights of beaming countenances making a lively and pleasing scene. The Groom then took his Bride to another room to see the tokens of friendly regard that were there displayed. Our reporter did not get a list of the presents, but among other things he saw a great many pieces of fancy work--the produce of "The needle directed by beauty and art"--a great many pieces of table ware and linen goods, a fine hanging lamp, a luxurious "Comfort" rocking chair (rattan), a large steel engraving, in frame, and numerous other articles, besides a Singer sewing machine present from the Groom to the Bride. Altogether it was quite a goodly collection.
At six o'clock supper was announced, and about half of the company were escorted to the table, the Bride and Groom occupying a central position. The board was elegantly spread with a splendid repast, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Subsequently the other guests were served, after which all gathered in the parlor, where the time was pleasantly passed with social chat and merriment, until the hour for departure arrived, when fond friends bade adieu to Mr. and Mrs. Brown, with many kind wishes for their future felicity, and departed for their various homes.
The young folks will go to housekeeping, at once, in the house built by C. [Charles] W. Birdsall [Rebecca's brother], near "The Mansion," and while Rebecca attends to [illegible] cottage, David will tend the flocks and work the fields of the Birdsall farm.