Biographies
from
The History of Otsego County, New York
1740-1878
D. Hamilton Hurd
Published by Everts & Fariss, Philadelphia
MORRIS, Richard B - Milford
Richard B. MORRIS was born in the town of Milford, Otsego
County, April 3, 1811, being the youngest son of Charles and
Catherine Morris. His early life was passed on his father's farm,
being the same property on which his grandfather settled about
1790, and which is still owned by members of the family. He took
for his companion in life, March 1, 1838, Zilpha, daughter of Reuben
and Wealthy WESTCOTT. She was born in the town of Milford,
Nov. 1, 1820. The result of this marriage was three sons and three
daughters. And, by God's will, the sons alone are left to preserve
their father's name and honor for posterity. The eldest son, Albert,
was born in Milford, Jan. 2, 1840, and married Mary J. BIRDSALL,
Nov. 5, 1868; they have two children, viz., Burton H., born Nov.
28, 1869, and A. Stanley, born Oct. 28, 1871. The second son,
William H., was born in Milford, July 21, 1841, and married Ada
ANGELL; they have two children, Susan, born May 21, 1870, and
Willard, born June 21, 1872. For twelve years these two sons have
carried on a large and extensive flour and feed business in the
village of Oneonta, and are among its most prominent citizens.
Charles, the third son, was born in Milford, March 10, 1860.
Mr. Morris originally belonged to the old Whig party, but on
the formation of the Republican party joined that organization.
He held several minor town offices, and in his early life was
connected with the New York State militia. He was an active
member of the Baptist church for over thirty-five years, having
been a deacon for thirty-three years. His grandfather was the
leading organizer of the first Baptist church in the town of Milford.
All mankind have at one time to end their earthly career and
render an account to the Almighty. None was better prepared
for this than the subject of this sketch, who passed away Dec. 26,
1877, mourned by his friends and neighbors.--
Excerpt from History of Otsego Co., NY, page 198