USA > New York > Albany County > Albany > St. Agnes' cemetery; its past and present associations; > Part 5
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168
THE PRESENT ENTRANCE
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A
CLARENCE WILEY
HARDY WILEY
IGNATIUS WILEY.
IGNATIUS WILEY
N THE northwest part of the cemetery, in a quiet, peaceful spot, stands the Wiley monument, erected as a loving memorial to Ignatius Wiley. It has only lately been added to the lot, and in design is a beautiful sarcophagus of marble, massive and commanding in its proportions. On the front is designed a large cross with the family name on the base below. The whole is unique and original, both in plan and execution, and is the only one of the kind in the cemetery. The surrounding grounds of this plot are beautifully cared for, testifying to the loving remembrance of those left behind. The monument, situated as it is on a high elevation, commands a splendid view of the picturesque Hudson valley, as well as both St. Agnes Cemetery and the Rural which adjoins it.
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ON. IGNATIUS WILEY, one of the best-known citizens of our city, was born in 1852 and died in Albany, February 6th. 1897. lle was rated as one of the most honorable merchants in Albany, and was popular with all classes of our citizens. Ilis genial, kindly nature made him a boon companion among his friends and his generous heart led him to be a practical benefactor to all who needed help or assistance of any kind. No one ever applied to him and failed to win help in their distress. Mr. Wiley was a brother of Joseph and George Wiley, two well-known merchants of Albany. He occupied many prominent positions in connec. tion with this city, being at one time supervisor and also assemblyman. Ile was one of the charter members of the local lodge of the order of Elks, and one of its most enterprising and prominent supporters.
He was also a zealous member of the Burgess Corps for a number of years. During the railroad troubles in 1887, Mr. Wiley did duty on the upper railroad bridge with the Corps. In his social life he was so well known and admired for natural gifts of entertainment and geniality - so in his family relations as husband and father he left a gap that caused widespread sorrow to all who knew and loved him. Mr. Wiley was a devoted member of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and an earnest supporter of all that pertained to its welfare. Now in that last resting place, in the silent city of the dead, with those other good men and honorable citizens who too have gone on their long journey, he rests in peace.
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Ignatius Wiley.
DE COFF MONUMENT.
DE COFF MONUMENT
N A PRECEDING PAGE is shown a perfect reproduction of the monument which marks the last resting place of the De Coff family. It consists of a beautifully proportioned shaft sur- mounted by a cross, the whole making an impression of perfect harmony and symmetry of each part. On the base is the name De Coff and above it empaneled are the words, " Thy will be done." This memorial is made of Westerly granite, and by reason of the perfectness of detail is one of the finest in the cemetery. A short flight of steps with handsome ornamenta- tions on either side lead up to it from the driveway, adding to the lot itself a finishing touch as well as to the natural beauty of the surroundings.
There is a magnificent view from the monument, of far-stretching mountains, below which on the east can be seen the waters of the Hudson.
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P ROF. JAMES HALL was born at Hingham, Mass., in 1811. His father was an Englishman. The son went to the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute at Troy in 1828, and graduated from that well-known seat of learning in 1832. In 1836 he was appointed assistant geologist of this State and in 1837 became chief geologist. He was at the head of the New York State Geological Survey for nearly 60 years, and it was he who first set markers for the scientific measurement of the reces- sion of Niagara Falls. His reports on the geological formations of the State have been a basis for investigation and a guide to working geologists for half a century, and the length and incalculable nature of his services are entirely unprecedented. Mr. Hall won for himself an international reputation, having been honored both by the government and scientific societies of Italy, Russia, France, England, Germany and Austria, and in our own country from Canada. Mr. Hall was one of the original officers of St. Agnes Cemetery Association, having been elected in 1867. He died in Albany, N. Y., August 7th, 1898.
I SO
James Hall.
LYONS
JOHN LYONS.
JOHN LYONS
N THE CENTRAL southern part of the Cemetery stands this original and unique memorial, erected to the memory of the Lyons family. It is one of the most beautiful illustrations in the book, so clear cut and well defined are all the lines, as well as the effect of light and shade. Composed of Berry granite, it stands a huge, rough hewn eross, massive in proportions and simple and imposing in design. It is entirely unlike the majority of the memorials in the Cemetery, and for this reason it has been greatly admired. On the front face of the eross are the letters, beautifully carved, "1. H. S.," and below on the base is the family name standing out in bold relief, and plainly visible for some distance.
Mr. John Lyons, in whose memory this beautiful cross was erected, served in the navy during the Civil War, and achieved a reputation for great bravery during that eventful period. He was a quiet, unostentatious man, but had the strong characteristics of perseverance and self-reliance that made him so well beloved by all who knew him.
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M ICHAEL O'SULLIVAN was born in the city of Limerick, Ireland. in 1808. For many years he was a successful teacher in the different parochial schools of Albany. St. Mary's, St. Joseph's and St. John's were all at one time his educational field. Even now in this city there are many middle-aged men who refer with pleasure and gratitude to his care of them in youth, his kindly counsel and watchful guidance. Capt. O'Sullivan was always fond of military affairs and was one of the early members of the Emmett Guard. When that company went to the front on April 22, 1861, he and his only son accompanied it as volunteers in the 25th Regiment and after their return he raised a company for the 63d Regiment, Meagher's Brigade. He was seriously wounded at Antietam and did not fully recover from his wounds until after the war had ceased. In 1865, July 4th, there was a presentation of New York State flags to Governor Fenton and on this occassion Captain O'Sullivan with his colonel. R. C. Bentley, represented the 63d Regt., N. Y. S. V. On account of his educational work in this city and his natural ability, he was connected with all the literary societies in this city from their inception, also with that of St. Vincent de Paul. St. John's Institute presented him with a sword and revolver as a token of remembrance and esteem when he left for the seat of war. After the time of conflict was over, he was clerk of Criminal Statistics which position he held for eight years, until his death, February 21, 1873. He was always a highly respected citizen and a stanch, christian gentleman. His wife, Catherine Howe, was a model, christian wife and mother and survived him five years. Kate O'Sullivan, their daughter, died September 8, 1856, and together with her younger sister was among the first members of the Cathedral choir. She was a general favorite and possessed of a beautiful voice and at her funeral Bishop, afterwards Cardinal, McClosky preached, she being the only lay person for whom he did this service. The following inscription appears on her monument : " Memorial of the Cathedral Parish to Catherine O'Sullivan. Died Sept. 8th, 1856; aged 21 years. Jesus be merciful."
186
GAR
VO HERFATHER
MARY.
MICHAEL O'SULLIVAN.
EDWARD HANLON
EDWARD HANLON.
DWARD HANLON .- One of the first lots selected and purchased of the St. Agnes Cemetery Association was the corner lot on the north side of the southern ridge by Edward Hanlon, one of the old Catholic business men of the city. In the year 1850, he started in busi- ness for himself, being one of the pioneers of the marble trade and business of Albany. He remained active in business life until a few months before his death. Some of the neatest and finest specimens of monumental work in both the Rural and St. Agnes Cemeteries are the product of his genius and skill. He was ever a constant, faithful son of his church, and peacefully he reposes in Mother Earth, beneath the cold marble whose like he so often placed over the remains of others. The statue on the monument typifies Hope, and was imported from Italy by Mr. Hanlon. It is a faithful reminder to all of his own and to others, that though held down in earth's embrace by the marble, Hope's reality is beyond the tomb. For years he marked the graves of his countrymen and friends, and could he speak from beneath the soil, there would be heard but a simple request for a prayer for the welfare of his soul. At the present writing he is survived by his widow and seven children, one of whom is Rev. Father Hanlon, pastor of St. Vincent de Paul's church, long and favorably known as assistant at the Cathedral and his connection with the Chancery office of the Diocese.
HOMAS KEARNEY was born near Dublin, Ireland, January 1, 1823, and died in April, 1893. He was an old and well-known citizen of Albany, having been brought to this city when but two . years old and residing here until the day of his death. Mr. Kearney was in years gone by a leading factor of the Democratic party and was chairman of the county committee for a period of sixteen years. He held at various times the positions of alderman, member of assembly, county treasurer and superintendent of canals. He was also a candidate for the office of superin- tendent of prisons. So well known and esteemed was he that during his term as one of the original fire commissioners in this city, the first steam fire-engine purchased and used here was named after him. He has figured in about all the beginnings of enterprises in Albany. When the first board of directors of the Albany Railway was organized, Mr. Kearney was one of the most energetic and prominent members. He also became a member on the board of directors of the Albany Gas Company. Several years before his death he had a stroke of paralysis, but gradually recovered and seemed to be in his usual good health. However, a few years later, another stroke seized him which resulted in his death. Previous to his decease he had filled a responsible position in the construction department of the capitol. One of the chief interests of Mr. Kearney's life was his association with the beauti- ful cemetery that now holds his remains. He was one of the original trustees and served on the Board from 1867 to 1893, a term of twenty-six years, during which his hearty support and co-operation were inseparable from the welfare of the cemetery. He was more actively engaged at the beginning of his term, when during the first steps for the establishment of the cemetery, Mr. Cagger and Mr. Cassidy selected him to purchase the land from the original owner, Mr. Bagley.
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Thomas Kearney.
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LOOKING WEST FROM MCARDLE LOT.
LOOKING WEST FROM MCARDLE LOT
S TANDING NEAR THE McArdle lot and looking west, one views what is known as the new part of the cemetery grounds. Far back on the brow of the hill is the fence which divides the Rural from St. Agnes Cemetery. The part of the cemetery shown in the accompanying illustration has been greatly improved during the last few years, until at last it has begun to add its picturesque beauties to the old part of the cemetery. Beautiful drives winding in and out have been planned and made, and walks have been laid out in this new section to thoroughly represent the lawn plan. Many costly and handsome monu- ments have been placed in this part of the cemetery in tender remembrance of some of Albany's most distinguished citizens.
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MICHAEL BECK
HIS BEAUTIFUL cottage monument, erected to the memory of the wife of Michael Beck, is one of the finest memorials in the Cemetery. Surmounted with a cross of beautiful proportions and symmetry of construction, it stands in bold relief amid the surrounding trees and verdure. The central location it occupies in the elevated part of the grounds, commands a magnificent view of the surrounding country, with the prospect of the Hudson valley below for many miles. It makes a fitting resting place for the last sleep of those who lie here.
Michael Beck was born on the 12th of October, 1842, in Birnfield, Bavaria. After an apprenticeship in two or three of the prominent brew- eries of that country, in 1866, when the war broke, he joined the military forces and participated in the conflict until the end of August. A year later he came to the United States, where he was employed in different breweries in New York, Brooklyn and Stapleton, and in 1881 entered as brewing-master in the services of the Beverwyck Brewing Co., which position he still holds. Mr. Beck occupies a prominent place in Catholic circles, being a member of almost all the leading societies. Since 1889, he has made Albany his home, and during that time has devoted all his efforts to the welfare of his church and the advancement of the interest of these societies. A delegate of the St. Francis Society, he has attended all conven- tions of the D. R. K. C. V., whose vice-president he is, and is also president of the Albany Widow and Orphan Funds. Mr. Beck has always been regarded as a man devoted to the interest of church and city, and anxious to forward all that pertains to the good of both.
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BECK
MICHAEL BECK
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CORCORAN
THOMAS F. CORCORAN.
THOMAS F. CORCORAN
RNATE IN CHARACTER, this monument consists of a beau- tifully carved sarcophagus erected to the memory of the late Thomas F. Corcoran. In design it is entirely original and out of the ordinary, and on this account alone it calls forth the admiration of all who visit this part of the Cemetery. The unique effect of the graceful drapery which covers one-half of the upper part of the monument, as well as the tracery effect in the ivy vine which borders the upper part, heightens the whole picture. A beautiful cross is carved on the front, making in all one of the finest memorials in the sarcophagus style in the Cemetery. The granite of which the monument is constructed has peculiar properties that produce odd effects in shading when polished, and makes the gradations in coloring very beautiful. Mr. Corcoran was a well-known business man of Albany and a heartily respected citizen. He was born in 1849 and died in 1889.
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W ILLIAM S. PRESTON was born in Hartford, Conn., the 30th of July, 1827. He was sent to the public school of that city and afterward to a preparatory college, with the intention of entering a profession. But being unable to continue his studies on account of his health, he commenced as a clerk in his father's business office in Hartford at the age of 16. In 1847, he went to New York as clerk in a business house in South street. In the fall of 1849. he joined the Catholic church, and so was baptized at the same time with his brother, the late Monseignor Preston, of New York, by Rev. Father Bailey (then secretary to Archbishop Hughes, afterward Archbishop of Baltimore. Mr. Preston went back to Hartford early in 1850, and went into business with his father. He was married first in April, 1851. He resided in Hartford until April. 1853. when he removed to Albany, where he carried on business until 1869. He was active with Mr. Cagger in the foundation of St. Agnes Cemetery and was its first secretary and treasurer. He was also treasurer and trustee of the Cathedral under Bishop Conroy, In the spring of 1869, he removed to New York and a few years after resigned his trustee- ship in the Cemetery. He continued in business in New York until January, 1887, when he gave up business on the Produce Exchange and was appointed U. S. Consul at Liege by President Cleveland. He resided at Liege until 1890, when he was transferred to Cognac in France, where he acted as U. S. Consul until 1893. After that he bought a property in Angouleme, where he resides with his family at the present writing.
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PRESTON
WILLIAM S PRESTON
JAMES LYONS.
JAMES LYONS
HIS MONUMENT consists of a magnificent shaft, towering heavenward, surmounted by a beautifully proportioned eross. The tapering effect of the whole as it rises upwards in its slender, graceful height, seems to typify aspiration, whose goal lies in the redeeming powers of the Cross. Owing to the style of the memorial, it has the effect of towering over the surrounding marbles, making a conspicuous appearance of symmetry and beauty of construction. The inscription on the die reads : " James Lyons. 1823-1875 : Daniel T. 1853-1887. Handsome granite steps lead up from the drive to the monument, making an imposing approach. The corner-stones that mark the dimensions of the lot are round and of polished Quincy granite, which gives a most substantial and finished effect to the whole surroundings. Mr. Lyons, who lies at rest in the beautiful spot, was at one time a prosperous merchant of West Troy and a man widely respected for integrity of life and uprightness of character.
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OHN TRACEY, one of the original officers of St. Agnes, Cemetery, was born in Frankford, County Kings, Ireland, on the 8th of December, 1809, and died July 12, 1875. In 1825, when only 16 years of age, he left Ireland and came to America. His first mercantile venture was in New York, where he remained some time as clerk. and his ready aptness and attention to business secured for him a position as salesman to New Orleans in a leading house, where he remained until July, 1829. when finding himself debilitated by the climate, he came north. After a six years' residence in Canada with his brother, he came to Albany in 1837, on account of the Canadian revolt, when the patriotic sym- pathies of Mr. Tracey made it necessary for him to leave Montreal. Early in the Spring of 1838, he commenced here and established himself as one of the most successful and enterprising of Albany's citizens. He was pos-
sessed of those sterling qualifications for success - energy, enterprise and the most strict probity - which always command or conquer success. For many years there was scarcely a single public improvement or enterprise or question to which John Tracey's attention was not called and his advice asked. His excellent judgment, his calm and deliberate consideration were esteemed of great value in both public and private affairs When the Rebellion broke out he was a member of the Common Council and on the finance committee, and at a time when prompt and continuous action was called for he did much to allay popular excitement and produce harmony of feeling. In short, it was largely due to the good judgment of Mr. Tracey that the city of Albany possesses so good a war record. Like many other citizens possessing the qualifications of Mr. Tracey, he was prone to decline public honors, and so great was his attention to business that he was fearful of not being able to do justice to any public undertaking. The only other office he held was that of police commissioner, at the organization of its present system, when he helped so materially to bring about its successful beginning and permanent continuance. His career is an example of a successful business man, a patriotic citizen and a true Christian gentleman.
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John Tracey.
TRACEY,
THE TRACEY MEMORIAL.
THE TRACEY MEMORIAL
HIS BEAUTIFUL MEMORIAL, erected to the memory of the late John Tracey, is one of the most imposing in the Cemetery. In design it consists of a white marble shaft, on which rests a graceful cross, the whole towering above the surrounding foliage. The plot is situated in one of the most picturesque parts of the Cemetery, both by reason of the natural beauty as well as the careful cultivation tendered by those who keep in loving memory those dear ones who have gone "to that bourne from which no traveler returns." From here one can obtain a view of the surrounding country, unsurpassed in any other part of the grounds. Mr. John Tracey, whose memory is held in tender esteem by those who were dear to him in life and who now lies beneath this graceful tribute to his memory, was one of Albany's most honored citizens. He was ever active in the interest of the church he so well loved, as well as in all that touched its welfare. When the Association connected with St. Agnes' Cem- etery was formed he was one of the original officers, serving as trustee from 1867 to 1875, and during all that time remained one of its most active pro- motors. The memory of this man, so widely known and honored for integ- rity of life and purpose, is still fragrant and dear to all who knew him. At his death, his son, Charles, was appointed trustee in his stead, and has served now for nearly twenty-five years in that capacity.
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HARLES TRACEY was born in Albany on the 27th of May. 1847, and graduated from the Boys' Academy in 1866. He became deeply interested in military tactics and was elected captain of the battalion of cadets. He then started on a trip through Europe, Egypt and the Holy Land. He entered the service of the Pontifical Zouaves and served two years. He returned to Albany in 1869, but the following year went to Rome and took part during the siege of that city. being captured and held as a prisoner for some time. He was the first to organize the Catholic Union in New York city and was its first secretary. After his return from Europe, Pope Pius IX conferred upon him, as recog- nition of his military services, the order of St. Gregory the Great, with rank and title, chevalier. He finally returned to Albany, where he has been very prominent in publie life, being elected Congressman four times. He is connected with some of the most prominent industries and organizations in Albany. Mr. Tracey was elected a trustee of St. Agnes Cemetery Association in 1875 to fill the vacancy caused by the death of his father, and is at present one of the active members.
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Charles Jarry.
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R ICHARD J. CARMODY came to New York as a youth in 1839. His well-known musical ability even at that early age found speedy recognition and he immediately assumed a position in one of the leading New York churches. For some time he remained as organist at St. Mary's when other plans brought about his change of residence to Albany. For a number of years he was organist at St. Joseph's church in this city, directing with a thorough musical ability and skill its choir and musical programs. Such was the esteem and honor in which Mr. Carmody's work was held that, on November 21, 1852, when the beautiful cathedral of the Immaculate Conception was dedicated, Cardinal MeCloskey, then bishop, urged him to undertake the dedication service. For twenty-two years after this Mr. Carmody remained at the cathedral, where he built up a standard of church music unknown before in this city. His rare talent as an organist, his sympathetic and harmonious insight into the beauties of the world of Catholic music, drew to his church all lovers of this art. During this time Mr. Carmody also presided over the department of music as piano forte teacher at the convent of the Sacred Heart, Kenwood, continuing this for thirty-three years. He has left in the hearts of many of its former pupils, pleasant and grateful remembrances of his painstaking and excellent work while their teacher. After an interval of some years devoted to travel and rest, his old friend Father Walworth persuaded him to preside at St. Marys, where he spent eight years of conscientious and carefully executed work at the organ and with the choir. He has now resigned and is freed from his sixty years of notable musical labor. Only one to whom his instrument is the outward expression of his deeply musical sense and inner religious feeling could hold this enviable record and brilliant career.
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M TRON A. COONEY, one of the oldest and ablest newspaper men of this city, passed away to eternal rest June 21, 1898. He was born in Dublin, March 1, 1841, and when a mere child developed an extraordinary fondness for music and study. He was educated in the private schools, the Royal Academy of Music in London, the University of Dublin and St. Patrick's College, Maynooth. On leaving college he traveled extensively, and in 1860 came to America. Following the battle of Belmont in 1861 he came north and became correspondent of the New York Herald, later assuming the position of musical and dramatic editor where, by reason of his rare technical and sympathetic insight into the art of music, his work was recognized and appreciated by the best artists of the day. In January 1885 Mr. Cooney came to Albany to continue his newspaper work in this field, where he remained as editor-in-chief of the Albany Argus. In 1891 he became connected with the state department of public instruction, as well as correspondent for New York and Rochester papers. His final professional work was as a member of the editorial staff of The Times-Union, which connection he held up to the time of his death. He is survived by his widow and a son and daughter. About the last special work of his life was this present history of St. Agnes' Cemetery, on which he was engaged when called home and in whose gracious and beautiful surroundings he now rests. With the passing away of this man the newspaper world lost one of its most brilliant and versatile members. He was always the same forceful writer. As a critic his singular acuteness of mind lent to all he wrote a charm, as convincing as it was irresistible, and as a litterateur he will be remembered for his excellent translations of modern French works. He was an exceptional Christian as well as a loyal citizen and a talented man, and the nobility and the integrity of his life in which he reflected much of the beauty and faith of the Master's teaching, has ended now in rest and peace and victory.
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