The subject of this sketch was the oldest son of Thomas T. and Nancy Lamphear Burdick. He was born in Potter Hill, R. I., Nov. 8, 1825, and came with his parents to the town of Alfred in the Fall that he was four years old. He has remained a resident of this town all his life, with the exception of about fifteen years spent in Independence and other parts of this county. In his earlier years he followed the trade of a blacksmith, but the greater part of his life was devoted to farming.
In his youth he enjoyed the advantages of Alfred University to some extent; but, being the oldest boy, it fell to his lot to assist his father in the hard work of opening up a farm in a new country. On the 26th of April, 1849, he was united in marriage with Martha J. Compton, by whom he had six children - all of whom are living: Thomas J., Alice M. (wife of Joseph J. Jeffrey), Edson E., Clark T., Lettie E. (wife of Wm. H. Jacox), and Perry F. All were present at his funeral except Mrs. Jeffrey of Kansas.
His first wife died on the 17th of March, 1890, and on the 3d of October, 1892, he was united in marriage with Mrs. Eliza Crandall, who survives him. He is also survived by two younger brothers, Daniel and Edmund, and by one sister, Mrs. Mary B. Woolworth.
For some months past he has been in failing health, and yet has suffered but little or no pain until within a day or two of the end. He was perfectly conscious to the last moment, speaking intelligently about several things to different members of his family not more than three or five minutes before his death, which was very quiet and peaceful. He died at his home on Church Street, on Monday, June 14, 1897, at about 1 o'clock in the afternoon, aged 71 years, 7 months, and 6 days.
When a boy of about fifteen years he was converted to God, and joined the First Alfred church, of which he has ever since remained a devoted member. His life has been exemplary and upright. He bequeaths to his mourning family the legacy of a good name; and to the church, that of a faithful member.
Funeral services were held in the First Alfred church at 11 o'clock, Wednesday morning, June 16, conducted by his pastor assisted by Rev. M. B. Kelley, and the remains were interred in Alfred Rural Cemetery to await the resurrection of the just. J. L. G.
