Research notes by Robert I Sackett, sent to Sackett Discussion List by Molly Sackett, 21 August 2008
"A record of the 1860 Census of Maryland (the town), Otsego County, New York that lists an Orsemus Sackett household. In addition to Orsemus, 34, there is a Geraldine,19, a female child named something like Ashear, 12, a boy Edwin,10, and Henry, age 10/12 months. If we presume Geraldine is the mother of Henry, the other children are either Orsemus's from a prior marriage, the children of a deceased sibling, or even younger siblings of Orsemus. An O. Sackett (casket maker) appears in an 1880 census in Grand Rapids, Michigan (in Kent county) who is married and the right age, but he seemed to be reluctant to give out much information. There is also a record of an Orsemus Sackett in 1888 in Grand Rapids that worked for the newspaper."
"In the scrapbook compiled for Harry's 80th birthday party there is a yellowed piece of news-print that is an account of the funeral of Orsemus Sackett. It seems he was well known local figure that was held in high regard. A hand written note says he died Aug 3., 1896. The headline reads "Borne by the Boys," referring to his pall bearers, all newsboys. "The funeral services of Orsemus Sackett, the aged newsman whose face had become a familiar feature in Grand Rapids business life, were held today at the residence of Henry Spring on Cherry Street."
"At two o'clock the newsboys of the city, headed by the cadet drum corps of the Plainfield Congregational church, marched up Cherry St to the residence of Mr. Spring where seats had been provided for them on the grounds in front of the house." "An informal address was made by Rev. Thomas Illman of All Souls' Church from the veranda, and two musical numbers, Home of the Soul and Beautiful Valley of Eden were rendered by Mr. and Mrs. W.H. Loomis." Not only is Henry Sackett in attendance (it says he is of Minneapolis and is referred to as X. Ackley Sackett) but there is a grandson, H. E Wade of Perley, Michigan, and three nieces, Misses Sackett of Colton, Michigan.
He is buried in Oak Hill cemetery, so it is entirely possible that we could find his grave if we ever happen to be in Grand Rapids."