JONATHAN E. MARSH, SR. |
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Main Cemetery -- Area A |
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Four Marsh brothers came to this area from Marshfield, Connecticut, in 1819. They purchased 164 acres of land from an owner who it is reported bought it from the Indians. That property ran from Route 31 north to the railroad and east to the land owned by the Pittsford Farms. The first Marsh dwelling was erected on what became Walter Marsh’s farm. It was known to many of the locals as a large square Greek Revival home and large barn. It would become the home of Mrs. Frederick Griffith and her horse stables and riding academy. The buildings were demolished in 1988, and there is now the large Pittsford Community Church on that property. According to history, Walter spent lavishly while his frugal brother, Jonathan, built his home to the north, one with a very steep roof and dormers. This home, however, left much to be desired. Although very similar to the home currently on the property, it was a small 1½ story home with no real windows on the second floor. It had one large room with an upper floor for a bedroom. The staircase leading to that floor was very steep, the roof very peaked and low. In order to climb the stairs or stand in the bedroom, one had to stoop. The house has since been remodeled and is now more accommodating to occupancy . Jonathan, and his wife, Mary (nee Pringle) established their farm, raised a family and seemed content until 1849 when “gold fever” struck the country. It has been said that Mr. Marsh withdrew funds, gave $400 to his wife, and told her he was going to California to find gold. Jonathan left Mary and his family late in 1850, headed west, and was never heard from or seen again. Perhaps he met his demise at the hands of others, or perhaps by an accident. We will never know. There is a Marsh plot in the Pittsford Cemetery and a cenotaph headstone to commemorate Jonathan. The remaining family members are resting quietly under their headstones, but Jonathan is not among them. |
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