Dutchess County Historical Society Yearbook Vol 063 1978

Year Book Dutchess County Historical Society

1978

Mary Beatrice d'Este, the only daughter of Alfonso IV, Duke of Modena, was born October 5, 1658, at Modena, Italy. In 1673, she married James Stuart, Duke of York, upon whom his brother, King Charles II, had conferred rights of Proprietor of the Province of New York. She was Dutchess of York for twelve years and for three years Queen of England. When the Protestant revolution overthrew the Stuarts, James II and Mary fled to France. She died at St. Germains, May 7, 1718.

The Colonial Laws of New York, Volume 1, pages 121-122, "AN ACT to divide this province and dependencies into shires and Countyes." Passed November 1, 1683: "The Dutchess's County to bee from the bounds of the County of Westchester, on the South side of the High-lands, along the East side of Hudsons River as farre as Roelof Jansens Creeke, & East-ward into the woods twenty miles."

Portrait by William Wissing, National Gallery, London.

L. Gordon Hamersley, Jr., Editor The Year Book is published after the end of the year and includes reports of the activities of the society during the year. Copies are mailed to those members whose dues are paid for the current year. Address: The Dutchess County Historical Society, Box 88, Poughkeepsie, New York.

Copyright 1979 by the Dutchess County Historical Society

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DUTC HESS COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEETINGS — MEMBERSHIP — DUES

MEETINGS: At least two meetings of the Society are held each year, the annual meeting in the spring and a meeting and pilgrimage in the fall. Other meetings and social gatherings are arranged from time to time.

MEMBERSHIP: Anyone with an interest in history is welcome as a member. Membership in the Society may be obtained by making application to the Secretary, Box 88, Poughkeepsie, New York.

Upon the payment of dues, members are elected by the Trustees or at a meeting of the Society.

DUES: Annual dues, $7.00; Joint membership (husband and wife), $10.00; Life membership, $75.00. Annual dues are payable on January 1st. of each year. These payments carry with them the right to vote, to hold office, and to take part in the proceedings of the Society.

YEAR BOOK: Upon the payment of dues at time of election, a new member will be mailed a copy of the last published Year Book. Year Books are mailed only to those members whose dues are paid to date. One copy is mailed to a joint membership.

DUTC HESS COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY Incorporated under the laws of the State of New York December 21, 1918 Certificate of Incorporation filed in the office of the Clerk of Dutchess County Book 10 of Corporations page 153

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Board of Trustees and Vice Presidents for Towns and Cities

4

Secretary's Minutes

5

Treasurer's Report

14

President's Message

17

Glebe House Report

18

In Brief

21

Frank Mylod

23

Helena Van Vliet

25

Ralph E. Van Kleeck

27

The Grist Mill at Pleasant Plains

by Emma Link

28

Pleasant Plains and Frost Mills Notes

by Helena G. Van Vliet

29

Letter from William Case Williams contributed by Clara Losee

30

Postal Service in Dutchess County — revisited

by William P. McDermott

33

Letter to the Authors of "A Trip on the Clove Branch Rail Road"

by Catherine F. Leigh

37

Poughkeepsie's Oldest Existing Structure: The Freer House, Wilbur Boulevard, With Notes on the Frear Burial Ground

by Melodye Andros

2

39

Our Almost Forgotten Hero — Harvey G. Eastman, Founder of Eastman Business College

by Elizabeth I. Carter

66

The Two-Shilling Doctor: A Legend and an Account Book

by Radford B. Curdy

78

In Search of Collateral Ancestors (The Sixth Chapter of the Flagler Family)

by Robert Pierce

103

The Other House at the Upper Landing

by Melodye Andros and Radford B. Curdy

110

When the Capital of New York Came to Poughkeepsie — 1778

by William P. McDermott

122

Conflict and Transition: Poughkeepsie, Capital of New York State, 1778

by Melodye Andros and Radford B. Curdy

132

Dutchess County Tells Its Story With a Multi-Media Display

by Chris Farlekas, Times Herald Record, Middletown

135

Appointed Historians of Dutchess County

139

Presidents of Historical Societies in the Town of Dutchess County

140

Town Historians

141

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BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Franklin A. Butts Felix Scardapane Mrs. Robert Hoe, Jr. Peter Van Kleeck Wilhelmina B. Powers Eunice Hatfield Smith L. Gordon Hamersley, Jr.

President Vice-President Secretary Treasurer

Terms ending 1978: Mrs. John Losee Mrs. Fred C. Daniels George B. Bookman Rev. Herman Harmelink III

Terms ending 1980: Mrs. Kenneth R. Briggs Radford B. Curdy John V. Kane Mrs. Harold V. Klare

Terms ending 1979: Herbert S. Roig Kenneth R. Toole Mrs. Ralph E. Van Kleeck Mrs. Arthur F. Wollenhaupt

Terms ending 1981: John Jenner Nathan Dykeman Mrs. Peter Andros Mrs. J. Edward Johnson Ezra R. Benton

Curators Editor

Terms ending 1982 Jonathan Clark, Ph.D. Mrs. Robert Kendall Mrs. S. Velma Pugsley William McDermott, Ph.D.

VICE PRESIDENTS REPRESENTING TOWNS AND CITIES Town City Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town Town City Town Town Town Town Town Town

Mrs. Catherine F. Leigh Ludwig G. Rut Mrs. Raymond Eaton Miss Helena Van Vliet Mrs. Richard Reichenberg, Jr. Mrs. Charles Boos Felix Scardapane Donald McTernan Mrs. E. Stuart Hubbard, Jr. Mrs. John Losee Walter W. Davis Mrs. Lawrence Rack Henry Grant Mrs. Calvin Case Hubert C. Spross Mrs. Lawrence M. McGinnis Mrs. Archie Lawson Mrs. Richard Coons Mrs. Craig D. Vogle Mrs. John Geisler Mrs. George T. Hemroth Miss Louise H. Tompkins

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of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of of

Amenia Beacon Beekman Clinton Dover East Fishkill Fishkill Hyde Park LaGrange Milan North East Pawling Pine Plains Pleasant Valley Poughkeepsie Poughkeepsie Stanford Red Hook Rhinebeck Union Vale Wappinger Washington

SUMMARY OF 1978 MINUTES June 14, 1977 Minutes President John Jenner appointed Radford Curdy as chairman of the Library Research Committee. Mr. Curdy will appoint his own committee. A motion was passed to allocate $300.00 for their expenses. They plan to index all the material in our collection and to sell discarded books so that we can acquire funds to purchase other desirable items.

A motion passed to thank the Glebe House Committee for their work on the restoration of Glebe House.

A motion was passed that we buy a mirror which had originally been at College Hill and which is presently being offered for sale for $300.00. Another motion was passed that we give the mirror to the Cuneen-Hackett Cultural Center with the proviso that we may reclaim it if and when we should have a permanent location for a museum. A plaque will be placed giving the history of the mirror.

Mrs. Velma Pugsley, who is planning to write a second book about the portraits of Dutchess County, would like to use some of the paintings in Glebe House and has asked our Society to underwrite the cost of having them photographed.

A motion was passed that up to $200.00 be allowed her for the cost.

September 13, 1977 Minutes Felix Scardapane said they are celebrating the 15th anniversary of the museum in Fishkill (Van Wyck House).

Ezra Benton reported that Asa Beckwith is planning to establish a museum village in Pleasant Valley.

Clara Losee said that Red Hook is planning to organize an Historical Society in Octobei-.

Helena Van Vliet reported on Clinton's Community Day on September 3. Their group is photographing old mill sites and mapping the location of nearby streams.

Trudy Briggs talked about the October 15 Pilgrimage which will include visits to the New Hamburg cemetery, the Moore home and the Robert Miller Colonial House among other things.

Melodye Andros said there are problems in distributing the Newsletter to the various communities. It is mailed to the members of the Society. It was suggested that copies might be given to the County Legislators when they meet every month for distribution in their own communities.

Hubert Spross suggested our sponsoring a showing of the film "Tall Ships" which has had wide acclaim and which would make a fine winter program. It was considered a possibility.

A discussion about whether or not to have the Old Yearbooks indexed was tabled.

A letter was read from Joseph Emsley concerning an old milestone on Route 44 near the DeLaval plant which is in disrepair. After discussion, a motion was passed that a letter be sent to the Highway Department, since maintenance is supposedly their responsibility.

October 11, 1977 Minutes About 90 reservations to date have been made for the Pilgrimage. A motion was passed to give an appropriate gift to the Millers and the Moores for opening their homes 5

to the members. Old Gravestones or a commemorative plate were suggested.

President Butts announced Wilhemina Powers' retirement from the Adriance Library staff, but said she would continue as Curator for the D.C.H.S. President Butts said he had had a letter from the Hudson River Psychiatric Center announcing the closing of their School of Nursing. The letter asked for a donation towards the cost of a commemorative plaque. A motion was passed that we give $25.00. Radford Curdy will contact them to discuss any historical material they may have.

Hubert Spross mentioned the article in the Poughkeepsie Journal about the 50-year class reunion of the Poughkeepsie High School. He suggested inviting the class to Glebe House for a showing of the old Poughkeepsie film and to see the changes in Glebe House. The matter will be referred to the Glebe House Committee.

Melodye Andros said that she was working on a display of Henry Livingston memorabilia, the things to be loaned by Mrs. Willis Reese and by Stephen Thomas of Rochester, New York, a direct descendent of Livingston. Plans include having a semi-annual meeting with Mr. Thomas as speaker, and perhaps a small reception at Locust Grove. A motion was passed that a sum of up to $200.00 be allowed for implementation of the plans.

Emily Johnson announced a program on October 23 at Kaal Rock Park commemorating the occasion of the British invasion in this area.

November 8, 1977 Minutes Several members told of the activities of their local societies.

Melodye Andros reported on a meeting held at Locust Grove on November 5. Kenneth and Alfred Hasbrouck are executors for Annette Young's estate, and they are interested in establishing an historical district in the area.

President Butts said the Fall Pilgrimage had been enjoyed by all. A gift from the Society had been given to both the Millers and the Moores for opening their homes.

Tentative plans arc to have the Spring Pilgrimage in Poughkeepsie.

Melodye Andros announced the semi-annual meeting of the Society for December 10. She said that Mr. W. Stephen Thomas, a direct descendent of Henry Livingston, will be the speaker.

There will be a small reception at Locust Grove from 4 to 6 p.m. There will be a display of Livingston memorabilia at Glebe House on December 11 for the Glebe House Open House.

President Butts stated that he had been in contact with John Taylor of the Poughkeepsie Area Fund as to the possible use of Vassar Institute by the Historical Society. He said we would have a report by John Jenner about the matter, in the near future.

A discussion was held about the fact that some members are not receiving our mailings. A motion was passed that the Membership Chairman (who is currently Herbert Roig) should handle new memberships rather than the treasurer.

The membership chairman would be responsible for keeping the mailing list up-to-date.

The problem of what to charge for old Year Books was 6

discussed. A motion was passed that the charge for a single back copy would be $3.50, that $2.00 per copy would be charged for 10 or under, and for over 20 a charge of $1.00 a piece would be charged up to the maximum of $50.00.

Hubert Spross announced that the 1912 class of Poughkeepsie High School were being entertained at Glebe House on December 1.

It was announced that some of our commemorative plates have been placed on consignment with Ken Hasbrouck on Huguenot Street, New Paltz.

Hubert Spross said that he would make copies of pictures of the milestone markers in the area.

December 13, 1977 Minutes A report on the party for the Class of 1912 of Poughkeepsie High School at Glebe House on December 1 was given.

A letter from Mrs. John Darrow thanking us for the party was read.

President Butts thanked Melodye Andros for all the plans made in connection with the December 10 meeting.

A letter from Stanley Willig resigning as Town VicePresident of Stanford was read. President Butts will appoint someone to serve as Stanford's representative until the Annual meeting.

Herbert Roig and Kenneth Toole talked about Harvey Eastman, who was a leading citizen in the history of Poughkeepsie. He died nearly 100 years ago and they suggested that we might recognize him by publishing some facts about his life. They mentioned some research on his life done by Joseph Einstein of Skokie, Illinois. The secretary will write Mr. Einstein asking him more specifically about his research and his plans for its use.

President Butts said that the final graduation of the Hudson River School of Nursing will be December 15, and he had been asked to present the commemorative plaque. He said that he and Radford Curdy had urged Mrs. Matthews of the Nursing School to make a complete inventory of the memorabilia stored there in the interest of its preservation. We will suggest to her that our Society be appointed custodian of the collection.

President Butts stated that one of the previous Newsletters had included a questionnaire requesting members to indicate areas of interest. He is anxious to activate committees to utilize the services of those members volunteering.

January 10, 1978 Minutes President Butts said a letter had come from a 5th grade class at the Hagan School requesting someone to come speak about local history. Melodye Andros will plan to go.

Peter Van Kleeck reported that our curator, Mrs. Powers, was sick in a Texas hospital and urged members of the Board to communicate.

President Butts announced that Mrs. Archie Lawson, who is President of the Stanford Historical Society, will serve on our Board as a Vice President from Stanford, until the annual meeting.

Gordon Hamersley reported that the Year Book is now in the process of being mailed.

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Hubert Spross reported that he has many requests for the showing of the old film of Poughkeepsie. He does not feel that young children would appreciate the film without some teacher preparation, although he has had some requests from grade schools. He would like us to sponsor the movie "Tall Ships" for a meeting of the Society. A motion was passed that we plan a meeting for the early spring with this program. The motion included covering miscellaneous costs in connection with its presentation.

President Butts did present the commemorative plaque at the final graduation of the Hudson River School of Nursing, and he said we are being considered as a custodian for their historical memorabilia.

The Society's desire to begin an Oral History Project was discussed. Hubert Spross will investigate how to begin.

A motion was passed that the Society secure its own mailing permit. Gordon Hamersley will investigate. Since distribution of the Newsletter is still a problem, President Butts will write the different local societies and ask for suggestions.

Radford Curdy feels we should review prices of items that we have, for sale. He will make some suggestions at the next meeting.

Melodye Andros showed the Board a copy of a Parke Bernet catalog, which displayed a Chippendale table originally owned by the Van Kleeck family which is being sold February 1-4 at the Gallery. There was considerable interest in the table and there was concern to have so many things leave our area.

A motion was passed that $200.00 be allocated for the cost of materials to have some portable display panels made for exhibits. Hubert Spross has volunteered to make them.

January 31, 1978 Minutes A special meeting of the Society was held to discuss the selling of the Van Kleeck table at Parke Bernet. A letter was read from the Glebe House Furnishings Committee to both the Poughkeepsie Junior League and the Historical Society. The committee recommended the purchase of the Van Kleeck table by the two organizations, each to donate a maximum of $4,000.00 for bidding at the auction on February 4.

The Junior League's reply to the letter was read stating that they could not act before their February 6 meeting.

After discussion Herbert Roig moved that the Historical Society make available up to $4,000.00 towards the purchase of the table, provided matching funds could be obtained from another source. An amendment was added to this motion that if these funds were not obtained, that the McCann Foundation should be approached to see if there was any possibility that they could aid in securing the table. The motion was passed unanimously. Norma Van Kleeck was selected to go to John J. Gartland of the McCann Foundation with the authority to act on behalf of the Society.

February 14, 1978 Minutes Peter Van Kleeck told of our need for new members and suggested that each Board member be responsible for suggesting 5 new members. He said Herbert Roig is now handling membership. Also, Marist College is no longer able to do 8

our mailing labels due to changing their computer, but he said various alternatives are possible.

Norma Van Kleeck reported on developments since the special meeting having to do with the sale of the Van Kleeck table. She said she had approached the McCann Foundation without success. However, the table had been purchased by Robert Van Kleeck, whose mother is a member of the Society, and we can expect to have the table on loan at Glebe House for an indefinite period. President Butts thanked Norma Van Kleeck for her efforts.

President Butts said that Frank Mylod had recently died, and because he had been such an active and devoted member he had asked Joseph Emsley to write a testimonial to be incorporated in our minutes. Mr. Emsley read his tribute which was accepted. It will be printed in the next Yearbook.

A motion was passed that our commemorative plates be offered to the local societies for $5.00 on consignment.

Such societies can resell them to their members. President Butts will write the Societies about our decision.

Hubert Spross reported about the March 5 meeting of the Society to be held at the Bardavon 1869 Opera House at which the movie "Tall Ships" will be presented. He said that Commodore Dideo, who is a local resident, will give a commentary on the events depicted. Melodye Andros expects to have an appropriate display in the lobby. A motion was passed that we spend up to $150.00 on a newspaper ad announcing the showing and sponsorship by the Dutchess County Historical Society.

Hubert Spross reported that our cost to begin an oral history project would be about $100.00 for a tape recorder and tapes. President Butts said he would try to find someone to chair such a project.

A motion was passed for us to buy a projector bulb for the Reformed Church who has loaned us their project for the showing of the Poughkeepsie film.

Gordon Hamersley was congratulated for the latest Year Book.

President Butts said that Mrs. Matthews of the Hudson River School of Nursing had turned over to him several folders of historical material which had been at the school.

President Butts announced that the Spring Pilgrimage in May will be in Poughkeepsie.

March 14, 1978 Minutes In the absence of President Butts, Felix Scardapane conducted the meeting. He thanked Melodye Andros, Hubert Spross and Radford Curdy for their work on arrangements for the "Tall Ships" program which had been well attended. $100.00 had been spent for advertising.

Norma Van Kleeck reported that due to the bad weather Glebe House had developed a number of leaks in the roof.

These are not covered by our insurance. She said the committee is investigating the possibility of getting funds for heating coils in the gutters from the City's budget.

Letters have been sent to local Societies relative to our offering our commemorative plates on consignment for $5.00.

Mr. Scardapane said we still need someone to head the Oral History Project.

9

He also announced that the Spring Pilgrimage has been set for May 6 and that 2 buses have been reserved. Mrs. Sterling Carter will talk in the morning to the group and the buses will tour in the afternoon. The exact itinerary has not as yet been selected.

Herbert Roig told the Board that in the renovation of Soldiers Fountain several parts had not been replaced. A Motion was passed that the secretary write a letter to the mayor, with copies of the letter to the City Manager and Frank Eberhard, asking the whereabouts of the parts.

Melodye Andros said that she had been contacted by a Larry Gordon of New Hamburg, who has done a slide presentation about New Hamburg, and who would like some financial help from the Society. The consensus of the group was that we could not finance equipment for showing the presentation, but that we would be interested in seeing what he has done.

Mrs. Andros will communicate with him.

Rev. Harmelink told the Board that the Reformed Church will be getting an historic plaque for the site of the first Reformed Church which was at Market and Main Streets on the South side.

A motion was made that June 24 be the date of our Annual Meeting. Emily Johnson expressed her interest in seeing that we properly commemorate the year 1778, which was an important year in our history, and that perhaps our speaker for the annual meeting could emphasize happenings in 1778.

Ezra Benton displayed a geneological book which he has just published about his family. He offered copies to Board members who have use for it.

April 11, 1978 Minutes President Butts introduced Larry Gordon who is working on a slide presentation of New Hamburg. Mr. Gordon told the Board about his project and showed some of his slides. He would like to apply for a grant through the New York State Council on the Arts, but would need to be sponsored by a group. After his departure, Radford Curdy made a motion that we encourage him with his project, that members aid him in finding other old pertinent photographs to copy. The motion passed.

It was noted that several local societies have requested some of our commemorative plates.

A motion was passed that we terminate our membership in the Hudson River Valley Association. The yearly dues are $50.00.

Melodye Andros told the Board about a group of people who have met to discuss ways of promoting the Historical Society through the use of displays. The group has come up with the idea of putting in a display in the old City Hall in August, September and October. Dr. McDermott, president of the Clinton Historical Society and a guest at the meeting, briefly told about the proposed concept for the exhibit. A motion was passed approving this concept for an exhibit, that it be a Historical Society project, and that funds of up to $1,000 be made available for its implementation.

Mr. Scardapane reported that the Fishkill Homestead had had an interesting display of old chairs and of etiquette practices recently.

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President Butts said he would talk with Mrs. Sterling Carter about Joseph Einstein's research on Harvey Eastman.

President Butts appointed the following to the nominating committee: Emily Johnson Clara Losee Herbert Roig They will report at the annual meeting.

President Butts said he had appointed a committee to discuss and recommend future directions for the Society and in what areas we should focus our attention. The committee will be composed of Melodye Andros, Peter VanKleeck, Radford Curdy, Barbara Case and Norma Van Kleeck.

Melodye Andros noted that there is a movement toward having New York State and the federal government designate a 16-mile strip of land between Ogden Mills Estate and Clermont a National Historic District. She feels a letter should be sent by our Society to the executive director of the State Board for Historic Preservation urging its adoption. The motion passed.

A motion was also passed to send a letter to the Huguenot Historical Society of New Paltz congratulating them on their anticipated celebration of the town's 300 years in existence.

Hubert Spross announced additional showings of the Old Poughkeepsie film and said there would be another showing of "Tall Ships" on April 16 at the Ogden Mills Estate.

Melodye Andros said that we have been approved for a mailing permit.

May 9, 1978 Minutes Peter Van Kleeck said that our mailings would now be done by Dutchess Community College rather than Marist College.

The Glebe House Committee has requested additional funds.

They would like $3,000 from each of the Junior League and the Dutchess County Historical Society. In view of the fact that we did not know the reason for the additional funds, it was decided to keep our contribution at $2,000 at this time. $1,600 will come from the Adams fund and the remainder from current income.

President Butts thanked all those for making the spring pilgrimage a success. Mr. Scardapane will send a letter of thanks to Mrs. E. Sterling Carter. Also, a motion was passed to send a letter of appreciation to the Reformed Church.

Emily Johnson reported for the nominating committee and said they were contacting all the town vice presidents to see if they would still like to serve. The question of whether or not the vice presidents should be required to attend Board meetings was discussed and it was suggested that the minutes be researched to try to find any amendments which might pertain to this matter.

The Annual meeting will be held on June 24 in the Pawling area. Various suitable speakers were suggested.

George 0' Donoghue has asked that the Historical Society address a letter to him in support of the movement to have the Verplanck-Stoneykill Practice Farm and Environmental Education Center placed on the National Historic Register.

Felix Scardapane will draft the letter.

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It was reported that Mrs. Carter hopes to have an article about Harvey Eastman in the Year Book. It was suggested that Tim Aired, who is initiating the restoration of Eastman Terrace Apartments, might be of help to Mrs. Carter.

June 13, 1978 Minutes Walter Averill, a former member of our Board, spoke about the aims of the Hudson River Valley Association and urged us to reconsider our decision to resign. Yearly dues are $50.00.

President Butts spoke of the difficulty of ascertaining the most up-to-date version of our By-Laws. The secretary was asked to contact Van Cunningham, the previous secretary, to see if he had any old records. One of the unresolved questions is whether or not the Town Vice Presidents are voting members of the Board of Trustees.

Emily Johnson made a motion that Elizabeth Carter and Clifford Buck be made honorary members of the Society. The motion passed.

A motion was passed that a committee be appointed to study possible changes in the By-Laws. When it is brought up-to-date, it was felt that it should be printed in the next Year Book.

President Butts reported that Tim Alred has been allocated some funds from N.S.O., which is part of Community Development, to plan a day of celebration for Harvey Eastman.

July 15, 1978, has been selected and there will be a celebration in Eastman Park and an exhibit of memorabilia in Adriance Library.

The annual meeting was announced for June 24, and Emily Johnson suggested that this would be a good time to recognize our 2 new Honorary members. A motion was passed that a document be prepared for the honorary members.

President Butts told the Board about the AAUW's sponsoring, along with Dutchess County Landmarks, Junior League of Poughkeepsie, and Dutchess County Historical Society, the making of a film depicting the history of Poughkeepsie. They are anxious to have any of our members' expertise. A meeting is scheduled of interested parties.

A motion was passed that we rejoin the Hudson River Valley Association.

President Butts told the Board that he had had a phone call from Arthur Levinson regarding our material at Adriance Library. The Library would like us to remove all of our "nonbook" items. A motion was passed that the Library Research Committee take the matter up with Mr. Brock of the Library Staff and that they look into some long-range plans.

Annual Meeting, June 24, 1978 The annual meeting of the Dutchess County Historical Society was held on June 24, 1978 at Birch Hill Inn Ming Hoy Restaurant, on Route 22, Pawling, New York. A meeting followed luncheon.

Emily Johnson made a report for the nominating committee which included besides herself, Clara Losee and Herbert Roig.

Nominated for a 4 year term were: Jonathan Clark, PhD. Mrs. Robert Kendall Mrs. S. Velma Pugsley William McDermott, PhD. 12

The slate was elected as read.

Hubert Spross announced that approximately 8,000 people have seen the 1912 old Poughkeepsie film. He said that Central Hudson has located an old movie about Poughkeepsie, which, if it can be revived, will be added to the showings of our old film. It will add about 5 or 10 minutes to the program.

President Butts announced that the Fall Pilgrimage will be to the town of Washington.

He told the group of our plans to sponsor an exhibit in the Mid-Hudson Arts and Science Center during August, September and October, under the direction of Dr. William McDermott; which would emphasize the fact that Poughkeepsie was the State Capital in 1778.

President Butts reported that we have received notification from Adriance Library that they would like us to remove our "non-book" items, since they need more room. A committee, consisting of Barbara Case, Melodye Andros, Radford Curdy, Norma Van Kleeck and Peter Van Kleeck will study the matter.

He told the members that Mrs. E. Sterling Carter and Clifford Buck were elected to Honorary Membership at the last Board meeting, and that a presentation will be given them at a later date.

Mr. Fuller Walker, our speaker of the afternoon, spoke of his experiences in the reenactment of the 1775-1776 epic trek of Colonel Henry Knox from Fort Ticonderoga to Boston in 1975. He illustrated his talk with slides taken during the reenactment.

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ANNUAL TREASURER'S REPORT 1977

Balance - December 31, 1976 (Checking Account)

$

Receipts Dues Wells Fund Transfer Adams Fund Transfer General Fund Pilgrimage Glebe House Loan Plates Acquisition Fund Transfer Reynolds Fund

$ 3,684.00 4,629.00 1,753.75 600.00 752.70 500.00 785.06 334.75 389.00 $13,428.26

Expenses $ 2,000.00 Glebe House Maintenance Glebe House Restoration 3,403.43 Yearbook 2,210.09 Postage 155.00 Fees 900.00 Miscellaneous 70.00 Dues 118.00 Meetings & Pilgrimages 1,575.70 391.28 Internal Revenue Accounting 525.00 Petty Cash 20.00 402.21 Book Binding 141.92 Office Supplies 599.91 Newsletter 425.00 Adriance Library - Equipment Cunneen-Hackett - Furniture 300.00 Acquisition Source Material 200.00 Safe Deposit & Post Office Boxes 69.42 $13,506.96

Balance - December 31, 1977

14

265.46

13,428.26 $13,693.72

$13,506.96

$

186.76

GENERAL FUND

Balance December 31, 1976 (Savings Account) Receipts Interest

$

Disbursements Transfer to Checking Account Balance December 31, 1977

$

$

639.70

$

13.60 653.30

$ $

600.00 53.30

13.60

600.00

HELEN WILKINSON REYNOLDS FUND (Publications)

$20,546.22

Balance December 31, 1976 (Savings Accounts) Receipts Sale Publications Interest

$1,148.20 1,336.61

Disbursements Transfer to Checking Account Balance December 31, 1977

$

389.00

$ 2,484.81 $23,031.03 $ 389.00 $22,642.03

WILLIAM PLATT ADAMS FUND (Interest for Glebe House Support)

$25,022.18

Balance December 31, 1976 (Bonds at Investment Value) Receipts Interest Disbursements Transfer to Checking Account Balance December 31, 1977

15

$1,753.75

$ 1,753.75 $26,775.93

$1,753.75

$ 1,753.75 $25,022.18

WELLS FUND (General Purposes)

Balance December 31, 1976 (Bonds, stocks at investment value, savings accounts) Receipts Interest & Dividends Plates Glebe House Loan

$119,439.53

$7,973.99 248.76 250.00 $8,472.75

Disbursements Transfer to Checking Account Balance December 31, 1977

16

$4,629.00

$ 8,472.75 $127,912.28

$ 4,629.00 $123,283.28

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE The 1977-1978 year, just concluded, has been a good one for the Dutchess County Historical Society. Our relationships with the town and local society have been excellent, and we can testify to the great amount of historical activity being carried on in Dutchess County. Many of the local societies have been conducting projects and activities of great interest, and these have been faithfully reported in our newsletters. In addition, individuals and groups have been carrying on studies, and presenting exhibits, about which we would like to be better informed. In this connection, I would like to call special attention to the outstanding exhibit presented at the Mid-Hudson Arts and Science Center.

We have been conducting two pilgrimages each year, all of which have been in Dutchess County. These have been well attended by our members and friends. We extend our thanks to the local societies which have invited us, made the plans, and provided guides and expert assistance. On each pilgrimage a ladies' group from a local church has served us coffee and "Danish" upon our arrival, and coffee and dessert at lunch time. For these and other courtesies we are most grateful.

We expect that the same general pattern of activities will continue for 1978-1979. We are endeavoring to schedule a winter meeting later in the year, much as was conducted last year. Due announcement will be made if our plans are successful.

We have two problems about which I should make mention.

The first has to do with communication, or rather the lack of it. This is not a general complaint but does prevail here and there. It is most important that we know about all the activities that are being carried on by societies, groups and individuals. These will be reported in our newsletters so that due recognition can be extended and the whole Society informed about what is going on.

The second problem has to do with our relationships with the Adriance Memorial Library. This was mentioned in DCHS Newsletter, Volume III, Number II. It is very possible that we will be forced to leave the Library and set up a new base of operations. Our planning committee is now consulting with officials of the Library to determine what the future may hold. If a move is necessary, the committee will make recommendations which will, of course, receive deep consideration.

I extend my sincere thanks to the Trustees, and to all others who have made this year successful. With your help the coming year will be even better than 1977-1978.

Franklin A. Butts President

17

ANNUAL REPORT GLEBE HOUSE 1977-1978

This year's committee began the year in June with a joint board dinner meeting in our newly refurbished house.

One of our goals was to bring more people into the house.

We achieved this goal by planning a coordinated program of crafts, seminars, and displays. Nancy Wright, who did a superb job as program coordinator, was instrumental in the planning and implementation of this program. Lynne Wallis doing displays and Mary Harrison and Patti Cacciabaudo doing crafts were very resourceful. This program, which was published in the Dutchess Association for Continuing Education (DACE) bulletin, was well received by the community.

Ellen Hart with Jane Erhard did an admirable job chairing the Christmas Open House. Judy Haywood, Karen Daniels, and Ann Smith handled the arrangements for Candlelight Hour.

Through the efforts of Melodye Andros our theme "Twas the Night Before Christmas" was enhanced by a display of Henry Livingston memorabilia.

Also in December the committee hosted a tea for the 1912 graduates of Poughkeepsie High School. Mr. Hubert (Bud) Spross showed vintage films.

We purchased a new slide projector, and our slide program, under the direction of Karen Daniels, was shown to various school and scout groups.

In December our guide/caretaker resigned on short notice after six months service. During January and February we employed temporary help. We recently hired Marc DePaul, a student at Marist College.

One unfortunate incident this year was water damage resulting from ice buildup.

This year's committee (listing attached) was conscientious and cooperative. We have discussed modifications in the committee structure which we hope to implement with the incoming committee.

We look to the future with the hope that Glebe House, whose charm lies in its past, will continue to be a visible community force in the present.

Alice Flint Chairman

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GLEBE HOUSE COMMITTEE

Chairman - Alice Flint Cochairman - Melodye Andros Secretary - Nancy Hodgkins Treasurer - Barbara Bogle ***************************

McGinnis, Carol McGowan, Mary Mitchell, Ann Mitchell, Betty Moore, Susan Murray, Brita Potter, Ellen Ringwood, Barbara Roig, Herbert Smith, Ann Thorton, Lois Tumulo, Joyce Wallis, Lynn Wilhelm, Sharon Wright, Nancy

Aldrich, Barbara Aldrich, Pam Andersen, Donna Butler, Diana Cacciabaudo, Patty Caplicki, Pat Case, Jean Daniels, Karen Erhard, Jane Harrison, Mary Hart, Ellen Hayward, Judy Howard, Diane Lumb, Deedee Marchetti, Bobbi

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GLEBE HOUSE COMMITTEES

CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE Ellen Hart, CoChairman Jane Erhard Judy Hayward all committee members

CITY FATHERS' DINNER Joyce Tumulo

CRAFTS Barbara Aldrich Patty Cacciabaudo Marry Harrison

GIFT ITEMS Ellen Hart Diane Howard

EXHIBITS Lynn Wallis Ellen Potter

SLIDE PROGRAM Karen Daniels

SPECIAL PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT Nancy Wright, Chairman Barbara Ringwood Donna Andersen Craft and Exhibit committees

RENTALS Pat Caplicki

FUTURE OF GLEBE HOUSE Brita Murray, Chairman Diana Butler Deedee Lumb

COOKBOOK Mary McGowan

TRAINING Sharon Wilhelm Ellen Potter Melodye Andros

GARDEN CLUB REP. Betty Mitchell

INVENTORY Melodye Andros Carol McGinnis

HOUSE UPKEEP Herbert Roig

PUBLICITY Susan Moore Mary McGowan

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IN BRIEF The year's events are amply reported in various sections of this Year Book. However, we would like to report some matters of particular consequence.

Mrs. Albert E. Powers was Curator of the Society from 1966 until this past Fall when she retired from her positions at Adriance Memorial Library, from being Dutchess County Historian, and from her association with us. The Society always benefited from her cheerful enthusiasm, from her organization and maintenance of the collection in the history rooms, and from her helpfulness to geneology and history researchers who approached her in person, by telephone or by mail from all over the United States as well as from many other parts of the world. Mrs. Powers will be missed by all of us, and New Mexico will surely be a bit sunnier thanks to its new resident.

However, the Society is not lacking in curatorial strength. We are pleased by Eunice Hatfield Smith's acceptance of the role of Curator. She has long been a member of the Society as well as a trustee, a member of the Research Library Committee and a contributor of a number of interesting articles in the Year Book. President Butts has made a good appointment and we welcome Mrs. Smith to her new and we hope satisfying responsibility.

The Society has been honored by the appointment of our member Radford Curdy as Dutchess County Historian. This was done by Lucille Pattison the newly-elected, first woman to become County Executive. Mr. Curdy is well known for his activity with rare books and documents, and his historic research, and writing -- he has several excellent articles in this Year Book. We offer him congratulations and good wishes as he assumes this position for the county.

To continue on a congratulatory note, we are pleased to report that Clifford Buck, Salt Point, a past trustee, and Elizabeth I. Carter, Historian for the City of Poughkeepsie, have been made Honorary Members of the Society in recognition of their many contributions to research and historical affairs in and about the county and Poughkeepsie. You will recall that Louise Tompkins, Historian for the Town of Washington, and prolific writer of historic articles, became an Honorary Member in 1977. We owe much to such people for their efforts in bringing to us all a broadened sense of historic perspective and heritage.

In 1978 and the first weeks of 1979 we were saddened to lose three long-time friends and valued associates. We regret to inform you of the deaths of Frank Mylod, Helena Van Vliet and Ralph Van Kleeck. Each had done much of signifi^ cance for the Society and you will read more about them on following pages. We extend to their families our sympathy and respect.

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Colin M. Strang, who has collaborated with Eunice Smith on several Year Book articles, mailed us a letter which may be helpful to researchers.

"We have one Fishkill collection in our holdings: five volumes of accounts (1799-1845) and two diaries (1857-61) of Dr. Bartow White. And we have the following materials relating to Dutchess County: accounts of the overseer of the poor, northeast precinct, 1769-1832; general store day book, Stanford, N.Y., 1843-45; general store ledgers, Mechanic, N.Y., 1766-1793; general store ledgers, Johnsville, N.Y., 1859-60; twenty-seven deeds and legal papers of Eli DeWitt and others; papers of Milo Winchester, 1860-1900, South Amenia, N.Y. We will be very pleased to make them available to you or other Dutchess County researchers who are interested in using them here (at the library)."

Wendell Tripp Chief of Library Services New York State Historical Association Cooperstown, New York 13326 Phone (607) 547-2533 Library 547-2509 In the 1976-1977 Year Book, Dr. William P. McDermott presented a fine article on early postal service in Dutchess County. Since that publication, Dr. McDermott has developed further information and clarification on that subject which can be read in one of his two articles in this book. He includes in his other articles interesting illustrations of title pages of proceedings of the New York State Assembly and of the Senate. He points out that these were printed by two local printers: Samuel Louden publisher of the New York Packet which he removed from New York City when the British arrived. For awhile he was also the State Printer, printing among other notable items the New York State Constitution in 1777 and the state's paper money. John Holt was publisher of the New York Journal which he took to Kingston and then to Poughkeepsie in 1778, also to avoid the British, and he too was State Printer.

We are pleased to announce the next volume in the series, Collections of The Dutchess County Historical Society.

The book which is entitled Eighteenth Century Records of the Nine Partners Patent is the work of Clifford Buck and William P. Mc Dermott - both members of the Dutchess County Historical Society. The book includes: a) a complete transcription of the Nine Partners Proceedings 1730 - 1749-- this is an account of land transactions, legal disputes and other business conducted by the Nine Partners Company during the period the Patent was being divided; b) abstracts of all the important information found in 2500 documents (deeds, mortgages and wills) relevant to the area which now encompasses the towns of Amenia, Clinton, Hyde Park, Pleasant Valley, Stanford, Washington and the greater portion of Northeast; c) records of the Crum Elbow, Charlotte, and Clinton precincts unavailable to Franklin D. Roosevelt when his work was published by this Society in 1940. A full index by surname and first name completes this 700 page work.

Publication date is expected to be August 15, 1979.

22

FRANK V. MYLOD

Testimonial Frank V. Mylod, who died in his 80th year, January 27, 1978, was an honorary member of the Dutchess County Historical Society, having served as its Secretary and President and having succeeded his father, John J. Mylod, as Poughkeepsie City Historian.

Probably few county residents were better informed about the city and county developments of his time than Mr. Mylod. A practicing attorney, like his father, Mylod was well known as tops in his field of real estate law in the county. His real property abstract file, aided by his father's searches, was widely respected. He succeeded his father as attorney and trustee of the local Home Savings and Loan Association, retiring from those offices in 1973.

John A. Wolf, his son-in-law, succeeded him as attorney for the Association.

A Poughkeepsie native, Mylod was born in the former family homestead on Bain Avenue, First Ward. As a boy he developed a love of the nearby Hudson River, its boating and fishing and the New York Central railroad, not to forget the now crippled Poughkeepsie railroad bridge. He was an ardent follower of the often recalled Poughkeepsie Intercollegiate Regattas near his home.

While attending Fordham College, from which he was graduated in 1918, Mylod had cultivated a liking for all things mechanical, and a burning desire to find out what made things tick. He was one of Poughkeepsie's earliest developers of radios. His mechanical ingenuity extended to repairing such wondrous conveyances as the first automobiles.

Mylod was a veteran of World War I, serving in the Navy.

He was also a member of the Naval Reserve. After graduation from Fordham College, he was employed for some time in the manufacturing of overcoats. However, subsequent clerking for a year in his father's law office, prompted his decision to enroll at Fordham Law School, from which he was graduated in 1927. His brother, Philip, also was a Fordham Law graduate, and developed a successful practice, turning more to court trial work than Frank.

Getting back to Frank Mylod's developing interest in local history, he was chauffeur of his father's automobile during the annual Pilgrimages around the county and elsewhere 23

of the County Historical Society. To those who go back far enough to the good humor of father and son, those leisurely visits to historical landmarks were never forgotten.

Frank Mylod was an enthusiastic collector of old historical books and all sorts of memorabilia of bygone days in Dutchess. He loved to go to auctions and add to his store of records and relics. And he built up a sizeable store of valuable maps.

The generosity of Frank Mylod concerning records of Historical Society meetings and Pilgrimages was in evidence during many years while he served as secretary, trustee or president of the Society, when the service of his law office was given over to the typing and preservation for printing of the minutes of meetings.

Frank Mylod's generosity in developing information from official records was no more noticeable than while he was engrossed in title searches at the Courthouse or the newer County Office building. Other less informed practitioners often worked by his side.

There was always good natured banter among the seasoned title searchers and Frank Mylod was always ready to joke with other attorneys as they moved around from one stack of record books to another. But the veteran Mylod also noticed the younger lawyers hard at work over the books. And to his credit was his practice of helping the younger lawyers. I am told he would even go to the rescue of the little informed practitioners, often spending more time helping them than in completing his own searches.

Frank Mylod, although a stickler for accuracy, disliked red tape. He would go to the heart of a problem and for thatreason chose to return to the record books if need be.

This applied to his historical research during his retirement years. Despite his handicap of serious deafness and later an eyesight problem, he sought to keep up some historical research.

The writer of this article during recent years visited frequently with Mylod. We sat down together to catch up on unraveling some historical material. Like Frank Mylod, I had won the County Historical Society's honorable membership and together we have to some extent kept up an active interest in the Society's projects, particularly the annual Year Books. Down through the years, we have sought to encourage others to join the county society and encourage the growing interest in city and town historical organizations.

Joseph W. Emsley

24

HELENA VAN VLIET 1898-1978

On December 11, 1978, one week before her 80th birthday, Helena died at her home on the farm on which she was born. She was active, alert, and enthusiastic until her death. Independent, self sufficient, and broadly knowledgeable were characteristics immediately apparent to those who met her. The fragility of life is never so clear as when the robust among us succumbs. Helena was robust. She came from families who resided in that area of Clinton from the 1750's. She was connected to all the initial settlers of the Pleasant Plains area. Marriages in the 18th and 19th centuries between the Van Vliets, Garrisons, Leroys, Sleights, Travers, and Trempers connected her to all of the early history of Clinton. And it was her knowledge and interest in the history of Clinton through which most of us knew her best.

But Helena was a much broader person than her retiring personal style ever let on. By the age of 36 she had completed a career as a missionary which few of us knew about.

After graduating from Rhinebeck High School in 1916, she obtained her nurses cap at Brooklyn Methodist Hospital in 1919. Four years later she left the operating room at Brooklyn Methodist to serve her first of three periods in China at University Hospital at Nanking. The overwhelming need for competent surgical nurses drew her to serve her fellow man in a place far from her Pleasant Plains childhood.

Not only did she beome fluent in Chinese in order to teach the Chinese nurses at University Hospital in Nanking, but she also became a qualified electrical maintenance engineer recognized as such by a Lloyd's of London subsidiary.

Recognizing the need to have electrical power in the surgical emergency room after 9 P.M. when all the power in Nanking was shut off, Helena made it her business to learn to operate the hospital's electrical generating plant to provide emergency service to patients. She returned to Brooklyn Methodist in 1935 following a trip around the world She had lived through that period in China when there were two wars in progress simultaneously - one with the Japanese and the other an internal struggle with the Communists.

25

These were times of real danger for an American in China.

Ten years later, 1945, she returned home to Dutchess to help raise the children of her sister who had died. Eighteen years of service in the operating rooms of Vassar and Northern Dutchess Hospitals closed her 44 year career in nursing in 1963.

She now had time to restore her 18th century home in Pleasant Plains where she had spent her childhood. Her home was formerly the Dutch Reformed Church and school and later a school until the 1850's. For the next 15 years she carried on the traditional family interest in Clinton and Dutchess history. Her father, George S. Van Vliet, a historical colleague of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, had been one of the founders and was first Vice President of the Dutchess County Historical Society in 1914.

She was a carpenter, electrician, photographer and collector of Clinton history. She was an active member of and contributor to the Pleasant Plains Presbyterian Church and Fallkill Grange. She served the community as an active member of the Environmental Commission, Clinton Library Board, Community Day, Town of Clinton Historical Society and Dutchess County Historical Society. She had received awards of achievement and distinction from both historical societies She was the Town of Clinton Historian and Vice President of the Dutchess County Historical Society. Her absence, traveling in her blue car searching for another piece of Clinton history, or taking another historical photograph, will be felt by all of us.

William P. McDermott In the Newsletter of the Clinton Historical Society

26

RALPH E. VAN KLEECK

The Dutchess County Historical Society and its members lost a sincere friend on January 11, 1979, when former President Ralph Emerson Van Kleeck passed away. Descended from Poughkeepsie's first settler, Baltus Barents Van Kleeck, Ralph brought more than just a family background to the Society; he brought with him a keen sense of history, an inquisitive nature with regard to the past, and a commitment to promoting the interests and goals of the Society. Mildmannered and retiring, his contributions to the Society were often little heralded.

He was born in Poughkeepsie on August 31, 1902, the son of Barnard D. and Margaret Near Van Kleeck. For most of his life he was a consulting engineer and had served as a member of the Poughkeepsie Planning Board. For a year and a half before the Viet Nam War he had been a consultant to the Republic of Viet Nam on its electrical power program. He had also been a former consulting engineerfor Dutchess County, and had been a member of numerous engineering and civic organizations.

Ralph was the ninth generation of Van Kleeck's in Poughkeepsie and was proud of his Dutch heritage. He was an active member of the Holland Society and a lifelong member of the Poughkeepsie Reformed Church, serving there as an Elder.

He had served the Society in the positions of Trustee and President. Those who have an interest in Dutchess County History will especially miss Ralph; his encouragement, his friendly smile and his generous support.

27

THE GRIST MILL AT PLEASANT PLAINS

By Emma Link (From the Clinton Historical Society News Letter of April 1976) I have often wondered what possessed the young son of a miller from Ulster County to locate the site of his new mill in Pleasant Plains. Did he hear of the natural flow of water from two lakes to a falls that was ideal for driving mill wheels from surveyers, or did he travel around the countryside until he found the spot he was looking for?

Young Dewitt, with the financial help of his father, utilized the soft pine native to this area and the natural steep rock formation, to build his mill in three tiers. A wagon could drive to the third level, unload the grain and reload the ground grain from a door on the ground level.

As most structures built in the 1700's, the mill was built to last several generations. The roof was covered with shake shingles, which were still in good shape when the mill Was destroyed. The beams were massive and the floorboards, two feet in width, were polished to a high shine from years of grain bags being dragged across them. The siding mellowed with age and unpainted, was a warm brown.

The tremendous wooden flume that led from a dammed up stream, could carry ample water to run the mill.

Using the same flow of water, a sawmill was built above the grist mill. Between the mills and the store, the community thrived.

During the Revolution, grain was sent from this mill for the use of the army stationed near Fishkill. John Dewitt was a captain in the army which probably had something to do with his being a supplier.

As time passed by, other millers took over the run,fling and ownership of the mill. In the early years, large incomes were made from this business since it was the only mill serving a large area. Eventually modern times disposed of the old method of grinding and a motor was installed to replace the watergrinding method.

Franklin D. Roosevelt took an interest in the build ing and when in Hyde Park, he would frequently drive up to inspect the mill. He believed that it should be kept as a landmark and talked the president of IBM Corporation into buying it. After Roosevelt's death, the mill was no longer of value to Watson and he ordered it to be torn down. Eventually, the large beams were moved to the IBM Country Club in Poughkeepsie. It took several days of battering by a large steel ball and a derrick to disintegrate the structure which refused to break apart. It was finally leveled and set afire.

It was a sad day to see the last of an era, but the old mill had the last word.

The fire department had to be called out twice to put out the massive fires that rekindled from the ruins.

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PLEASANT PLAINS & FROST MILLS NOTES ADDED

By Helena G. Van Vliet In the early and mid 1700's, land around the mill was being parceled out by land brokers and converted into farms.

Garrison and Bunker had taken title to 750 acres in the area along Hollow Road from the present Cookingham Drive to the corner by the Pleasant Plains Presbyterian Church. In 1752 Van Vliet and Masten had purchased 750 acres south of Hollow Road near the crossing of Meadowbrook Lane and Rymph Road, where a stone house was built on the present site of the home of Louis Johnson. The Palatine Germans were also moving in from the north and west, Travers-Cookinghams et al., as the tar camps at West Camp and Germantown were abandoned.

In 1784 the land now occupied by the Pleasant Plains Presbyterian Church was given by Richard Alsop, a land broker, to the Providence Society of Pleasant Plains for religious and educational purposes, indicating that an area group had already been formed for social, religious, and educational purposes.

The first post office at Pleasant Plains was established in 1829 at the house on the corner of Hollow Road and Quaker Lane, with Abram Golder as Post Master. It was later moved to the mill where P.D. Cookingham was the designated Post Master. At this time, Cookingham and Harris were operating the mill, then another move to the general store opposite the mill. At one time the area was being served by both the Star Route as Pleasant Plains and R.F.D. as Staatsburg.

The mill area was a busy cross roads; a store, a mill, a blacksmith shop, and a wagon makers shop.

When a church, school, or store became too small for its purpose, it was moved in toto and converted into a dwelling house. How? Man plus horsepower.

Within our limited area there are three homes that have lost their former site and identity.

Up to the north-west was a high rocky piece of land known as Shultz Mountain. This being unsuitable for farming was partitioned into wood lots where timber was cut for miling and the toppings for firewood. Much building material was obtained from this source and some of the old families here abouts still own their wood lots.

The old mill passed through several successive owners, LeRoy Cookingham, Harris, and others, with the last owner being Jacob Zopher Frost. As of now, the corner carries the name of Frost Mills.

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A LETTER FROM WILLIAM CASE WILLIAMS Ancestor of Charles Fraleigh, Belleville, Ontario, Canada Mr. Fraleigh is a direct descendant of Abraham Freligh and wife Charity (Gertrude Van Vliet) of Charlotte Precinct, who operated a min in Clinton until moving to Canada in 1785.

Pattens Hotel New York Oct. 31st 1854 My Dear Rachel: I arrived here today about 1 o'clock and as today is the last day the Crystal Palace is to remain open for visitors I immediately went to it and staid till almost 10 o'clock at night. It shows better in the evening than by daylight being lit up with perhaps two or three thousand gas lights. It is certainly a splendid affair; it is worth the trouble of coming one hundred miles or more to see the building alone which covers over five acres of land. The Band was there and made the Palace ring with music-- But I am told it has been a very poor speculation. They say it cost $700,000, and does not begin to pay expenses. I haven't a doubt but there is all of two million worth of property exhibited there. I saw 1 centre table, the price was $1200. I was told by a gentleman that there had been a carpet there for one room the price of which was $30,000. The statues of marble and the pictures attracted the most attention of anything especially our Savior and his Apostles, and the picture of Daniel in the lions den large enough to cover the side of a large room. There were a great many curiosities from China and Jerusalem and almost anything you can think of made in almost any part of the world. There was a great many in this evening to see it for the last time.

New York has grown beyond all conception since I saw it 19 years ago in size, but that part which was then built remains pretty near the same although very much improved. It looks very natural about the City Hall, the Park, the Astor House, the Museum, etc. Broadway is all astir as usual, sometimes almost blocked up.

I stopped at Irons Hotel in Kingston the first night.

Mr. Donnelly also just on his return from Montreal. Thursday came down to Albany by railroad. We came in sight of the Mohawk River for a great many miles and I couldn't but think of my mother's moving up the River in a batteau 60 years ago which took almost a month. Friday spent looking about Albany.

Visited the State House from the cupolo of which a person has an excellent view of the City, there is where the State of New York holds their State Legislature or Parliment. I visited the State Agricultural rooms which was worth as much to see as a museum. They have very extensive rooms filled with specimens of almost every kind of machinery that can be used in farming, of all the different kind of grain both in the straw and in a clean state, of all fruit grown in the U.S. represented in wax, of all the different kind of animals, birds, reptiles, insects, etc., fish, etc., a hog stuffed that weighed when alive 1600/1700 pounds, plows used 80 years ago.

30

I went to see the place described by Downing at Kenwood near Albany, the residence of Rathbon, Esq. He was not at home; his gardener was very clever who said Rathbon was worth one & a half million of dollars so you may judge of the appearance of his place. I had as many sweet grapes as I was a mind to eat in his garden. It looks almost like a house in a large forest as you can see no fence near. It appears to be after Downing's own taste.

Albany has improved very much since I saw it last, contains about 60,000 inhabitants and is as lively around the railroad stations as New York. I think probably there is 500 railroad cars moving through every day, it is surprising where all the people come from. A person told me the cholera had been very bad, from 2 to 300 deaths per day.

Saturday left my trunk in Albany, bot a travelling sack and new overcoat and started for Hudson and got to Mr. Sniders in Ghent in the afternoon. They are a very fine family. They live in good style in a large two story house 38 by 48 feet and every room carpeted that I saw, even to the kitchen. He has been offered 85 dollars per acre for his farm containing 220 which if sold would amount to 18,700 besides which he says he has given his three older children 5 & 600 dollars each and his oldest son is now worth almost as much as he is himself. The old gentleman is very pious, belongs to the Dutch Reformed Church. I went to meeting with them Sunday and heard a very fine sermon. I had an excellent visit with them. They are the most friendly people I most ever saw and when I left on Monday the old man put 3 books as presents one for you, one for Louisa and one for myself.

He has his father's Bible which is now 110 years old. They lost a son lately, I herein enclose a printed notice of his death.

Monday the old gentleman brought me with his carriage to Hudson and came on to Hyde Park to our connexions there.

It may well be called H. Park for almost every place is a park either on a large or small scale. Mrs. Mary Sheak is living here with her family. She is sister of Mrs. Snider and own cousin to me. She is quite old about 80, remembers all about the Platt family. She and my mother were playmates. She is very smart yet and gets about quite spry.

They keep boarding house in the village. Her son gets 50 dollars per month running a boat to New York. I don't think they are worth much property but they live in the best style in a beautiful place. They were much pleased to see me and hear from their Canada friends. She also has another son living near her in the village. I called there also. They live in a fine place also, everything looks neat and comfortable. They pressed me to stop but as I heard the Crystal Palace was to be closed after today I hurried on. I went to see another place near this place described by Downing as being one of the prettiest places in the U. States. It is the same style of the one near Albany, very large grounds, perhaps 100 acres principally devoted to pleasure grounds.

The road winds round and round among the trees in such a way you cannot see the house till you get almost to it. The man that owns it is a grandson of old John Jacob Astor of New York. He is on a tour to Europe. His gardener was very obliging and showed me through the green house and hot house where they have shrubbery and flowers in bloom the year round.

They have oranges and lemons growing very fine. The gardener 31

gave me one fine orange to take with me. He told me they had been offered $300,000 for the place but wouldn't look at it.

The view from the bank towards the Hudson River is very fine, the land being very high, perhaps 300 feet above the level of the river. You can see many miles on the North rim. In coming down the river I was shown several places also described by Downing. There was a man on the cars from Newburgh showed the place where Downing lived himself and where Washington Irving lived and the house where General Washington held his headquarters in the time of the Revolution. We passed through several tunnels through the rock coming down on the railroad and it would be so dark you couldn't see any more than though you were shut up in a cellar in the night. I find by looking in the directory there is plenty of my old friends still living in New York but I have not had time to call on them yet. Also I learned at Hyde Park that one of my father's sisters is still living in Poughkeepsie. I intend to call when I go back. If so it will be the first we have ever got any trace of any of my father's connexions.

There is also some second cousins in this city, grandchildren of old Mr. Ham & Sheak. I intend to see them tomorrow. I have had excellent health since I left home. I feel very thankful when I contrast my circumstances now with what it was when I was in the city 20 years ago.

W. C. Williams I can't say now when I will be home, but you need not look for me in much less than three weeks.

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POSTAL SERVICE IN DUTCHESS COUNTY - revisited William P. McDermott Since last year when the summary of Dutchess County post offices appeared in the yearbook (1) additional information has been obtained. Some new information and a few corrections of the previously published information will be noted in the following paragraphs. By the way, in last year's work page 107 & 108 were inadvertently transposed. Simply changing the numbers of these pages will result in a smoother reading of the text.

New information shows the existence of a post office at Washington Hollow at an earlier date. The ledger on file at the National Archives lists a post office at "Hollow" in 1813 with William Germond serving as postmaster. (2) About 1818 the name was changed to Washington Hollow with Luther Gay serving as postmaster from 1818-1828. The name "Hollow" does not appear again after 1818. Therefore, the initial listing for Washington Hollow should be revised to 1813 to make last year's list correct.

In addition there is an interesting wrinkle in all of this which intrudes itself in 1817. "Hartsville" is listed in 1817 as a post office with William Sharpsteen serving as postmaster. It is also noted as a probable location of a post office by Spafford. (3) A notation in the post office ledger indicates Hartsville was changed to Hollow on 3/25/1818.

(4) This implies a round trip from Hollow in 1813 for one or two years to Hartsville for a year or so and back to Hollow again. But it now appears that separate post offices existed in Hartsville and Washington Hollow. A notation in the National Archives source (5) suggests that "Hollow" and "Hartsville" may have been alternate locations about 18171818. The 1819 Postal Directory (6) lists "Hartsville or Hollow." Hartsville does not appear again in available sources (7,8) until "Hartsburgh" is listed on 6/4/1828. (9) And in 1836 there was a post office listing at "Hart's village" (10) and "Hartsville" (11).

In summary, Washington Hollow appears to have had a post office continuously from 1813 with a name change from "Hollow." A post office may have existed at Hart's village under the name of Hartsville as early as 1813. Perhaps it operated intermittently until about 1819-1820. Its next appearance in 1828 probably establishes it as a post office on a more continuous basis.

More recent information shows that Bengal (Bangall) should be deleted from the list presented last year. In fact, Bengal was a post office but in Ontario County. Later its name was changed to Vienna. (12) Three changes in dates are listed as follows: Milan New Hamburg Wappingers Creek

from 1811 to 1816 from 1826 to 1828 from 1810 to 1809

In last year's work Fishkill was noted as a post office during the Revolution. A page from Benjamin Franklin's post office ledger is included here to show some of the transactions between Franklin's office and Fishkill in 1777 & 1778.

(13) The postmaster, Samuel Loudon, was the printer of the 33

Title page of proceedings of the New York State Senate (Courtesy of New York State Library, Albany, N.Y.)

At thcir icTon Sdtoo hrgun anti hotdto Peirekrlfr,

UV CHAMT.,

/)uiThrj.i Coanty ott Thurfday, ak

rt Day tat

17.4.

XEEPSIE, (Dia Is CCII307) ?.atanta

tao JOHN

HO

LT

PatisTrt To Tlis STATE or NEW-YORIL

Title page of proceedings of the New York State Assembly (Courtesy of New York State Library, Albany, N.Y.)

New York Packet, a New York City newspaper removed to Fishkill when the British occupied New York City.

The classified section of the Country Journal confirms the existence of post offices at Poughkeepsie and Rhinebeck in 1786. (14) On October 25, 1786 this newspaper listed the names and towns of individuals whose letters remained at these post offices. Undoubtedly post offices existed in these towns earlier. A postal route had been established from New York City to Albany as early as 1772. Governor Clinton and the New York State legislature met in Poughkeepsie in 1778 and several years thereafter until 1795.

Certainly some kind of postal service was needed to aid the lawmakers and the governor in their communications with the rest of the state and the country. Just when a formal post office was established at Poughkeepsie and or Rhinebeck is not clear. The need was apparent therefore, one can assume 34

From a reprint of The Ledger of Doctor Benjamin Franklin Postmaster General, 1776

35

an earlier date.

Letters at the Rhinebeck post office were advertised in 1786 for individuals from four counties: Dutchess, Columbia, Ulster and Orange. Letters were for county residents located at Nine Partners, Great Nine Partners, Pleasant Valley, Dover, Red Hook and Oblong. There were also letters for Esopus, Kingston, New Paltz, New Malborough, Hillsdale, Little Britain, Kings District and even Sharon, Conn. The letters remaining at the Poughkeepsie office were addressed only to county residents. These locations were: Wappingers Creek, Washington Precinct, Pleasant Valley, Nine Partners and Beekman. It appears from these lists that the Albany Post Road (Route 9) was the principle route north because the towns listed on the other side of the river seem to have received their mail from Rhinebeck. This is an assumption worthy of additional research in the future.

BIBLIOGRAPHY 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

Mc Dermott, W.P.,Postal Service in Dutchess County the first 50 years. D.C.H.S. Yearbook, 1976-77, 62, 106-114.

Records of Appointments of Postmasters, GSA National Archives and Records Service. Washington: 1960, vol. 1.

Spafford, H.G. A Gazetteer of the State of New York, Albany: H.C. Southwick, 1813, pg. 321.

Records of Appointments of Postmasters, GSA National Archives and Records Service, Washington: 1960, vol. 2.

Ibid.

Table of Post Offices in the United States, Washington City: 1819, pg. 28.

Spafford, H.G.,A Gazetter of the State of New York, Albany: 1824.

Records of Appointments of Postmasters, GSA National Archives and Records Service. Washington: 1960, vol. 4.

Ibid., vol. 5.

Table of Post Offices in the United States. Washington: Blair & Rives, 1836, pg. 68.

Gordon, Thomas F.,Gazetteer of the State of New York.

Philadelphia: 1836, pg. 435.

Hutchins, S.C.,Civil List and forms of Government of the Colony and State of New York. Albany: Weed, Parsons & Co., pg. 214.

The Ledger of Doctor Benjamin Franklin, Postmaster General 1776, A Fac-simile of the Original Manuscript.

Washington: 1865, pg. 43.

Country Journal, October 25, 1786.

36

To the authors of "A Trip On The Clove Branch Rail Road" (Year Book, 1976-77) Mrs. Smith and Mr. Strang: Your article was very interesting and as I read it, noting names familiar of today and of many years ago, one leaves Bangall, going through Bear/"Bare" Market to Stissing where Art Wooster had a store. It is a nice location with several homes today. The school was converted into a dwelling.

The farm of the Creswell's comes into view where a hotel and a change of horses that pulled the stage made a good place to stop. It was Wilbur's in the old days and Attlebury Hill Road that led to Hunn's Lake, once Thompson Pond, has its starting.

As the train rolls thru a swampy stretch to pass thru Frank Dillinger's Farm and just north of the farm buildings was the tiny Rail Road flag stop. There was no station master here. When feed and supplies for the Carpenter Hill Farm was to arrive by rail, word was sent to Mr. Willson Carpenter at the Homestead on Carpenter Hill, and the teams would come with the rigs or lumber box wagons to pick up the bags.

The "summer boarder" business brought vacationers from New York City and New Jersey who either took the "cars" to Bangall or to Attlebury Station with arrangements previously made to be met with "horse and carriage with the fringe on top," or with a buggy called "top buggy" which even had "side curtains" to keep the rain away, and an oil skin lap robe, and off the prancing steed would go to deliver passengers under the capable driver's guidance, to whichever Boarding House, and there were several around "The Lake."

The drive was a short one and sometimes only "a walk" if the destination was to Frank Dillinger's Boarding House close by Attlebury Station. It was my privilege to be visiting my aunt, uncle and two cousins one summer to be a party to this "boarder business."

"We kids" would scamper to the tiny station about the time the "train time" hour came further announced by the whistle which was heard, if the wind was right, at Stissing.

There was one "boarder" from New York, an employee of the United States Rubber Company, who came every Friday afternoon about 6:00. He had lost his right hand in the Company Machinery when a young man. By the time I knew "Mr. Morse" he had a clerical position and stepped from the train with only a small "reticule" and dressed in a nice business suit with a starched color shirt and tie.

I always marveled that this kind man could dress himself without any help at all, tie, cuffs, buttoned shirt and shoe strings, for he had no wife and no one assisted him with his attire.

"We kids" would eagerly await that Friday evening train for another reason. As we greeted "Mr. Morse" he shook hands with each young one and into his pocket he reached and brought forth a dime for each one! !

With a chorus of "thank you Mr. Morse" we did skip along with this giver of wonderful money which meant on a certain occasion a young lady "boarder" wanted to walk the "track" to Stissing for goodies. My cousin, younger than I 37

by five years and I was about nine, volunteered to "go too" on a day that proved quite warm, and a couple of weary kids tried not to think of the heel hurts which soon took over and caused several rest times on the return to the Dillinger home, this time via the highway, in case a train should appear on the track and we couldn't get off because there were a couple of trestles up the line, and the boy cousin had a narrow escape one time, which was imprinted upon our childhood memories.

Between the Dillinger Farm and Johnny Knoedler's Blacksmith Shop, at the foot of Attlebury Hill, the Irving Mosher's Farm east of the highway, may nave been the sidehill farm, long in the Mosher family and still is. Irving Mosher Jr. and his brother Eugene and their children live on the land of their ancestors, still operating as a dairy farm.

Just thought you might like to knowIf one should drive on the Rte #82 from Washington Hollow to Pine Plains, the Dillinger Farm is gone, went up in smoke, leaving 4 chimneys to stand for years, as a stark reminder of a good life with hard work, when the "Pleasant and Easy" locomotive chugged from Bangall, Stissing and Attlebury, dropping a mail bag swinging on a hook, along the way.

When the Rail Roads were in operation, our grandparents and grand aunts and uncles, cousins too, traveled about the country better than I can get around to neighboring villages today, and far more reasonably, of course.

That "wicked wind" that blew over Stissing Mt. is also referred to in Isaac Huntting's "Little Nine Partners."

Historically, The "Olde Amenia Historian" (Catherine F. Leigh, Town Historian)

38

POUGHKEEPSIE'S OLDEST EXISTING STRUCTURE: THE FREER HOUSE, WILBUR BOULEVARD, WITH NOTES ON THE FREAR BURIAL GROUND

By Melodye Andros When England took over the new world possessions of the Netherlands on August 27, 1664, the area recognized today as the City and the Town of Poughkeepsie was a wild and unknown forestland, virtually unpenetrated by the white man. By the early 1680's a few white settlers were discovering the richness of the mid-Hudson area and were establishing themselves peacefully among the native Indians.

A 1680 deed from certain Indians to Arnout Cornelise Viele of Albany, and a 1683 deed from an Indian to Pieter Lassen and Jan Smeedes confirms the peaceful co-habitation between the natives and the newly arrived white man. The Indian deeds were, however, unconfirmed by the English government and as such did not serve as legal title to the land. Not until 1685 and the granting of the Rombout Patent was part of the area of Poughkeepsie opened up to settlers.

The Rombout Patent was granted in 1685 to Francois Rombouts, Gulian Verplanck, and Stephanus Van Cortlandt, with the patentees planning to use the land to develop a profitable fur-trading business. Embracing 85,000 acres and including the present Towns of Fishkill, East Fishkill, Wappinger, the westerly part of LaGrange, and 9,000 acres within the southern limits of the Town of Poughkeepsie, the patent commenced on the south side of the Fishkill Cieek and ran northerly along the Hudson ending 500 rods beyond the Wappingers Creek. Easterly the patent extended sixteen miles inland, always keeping 500 rods distance on the north side from the course of the Wappingers Creek. There were further boundary definitions, but the line parallel to the Wappingers is here the important consideration since it includes the area significant to the settlement of Poughkeepsie, and hence the property in question.

The second patent to affect settlement in the Poughkeepsie area was the Minisinck Patent. It was granted to Robert Sanders and Myndert Harmense Van Den Bogardt of Albany on October 24, 1686. The Minisinck (or Harmense and Sanders) Patent included a tract of land that extended from the "northwest corner of the present township of Poughkeepsie south along the Hudson to the Val Kil and thence eastward to the hill-country that lies northeast of Arlington." The two patentees, unlike the owners of the Rombout Patent, began immediately to sell off lots, and by 1691 there were five men living within their patent boundaries.

In 1688 Peter Schuyler of Albany secured a Crown Patent for two tracts of land in Dutchess County. The one pertinent to this study included land bounded west by the Hudson, north by the Minisinck Patent, and on the east and south by a "certain creek; known locally today as Jan Caspers Kil." In 1699 Colonel Schuyler sold a large piece of land from the northern end of this patent to Sanders and Harmense, thereby extending their property about two miles south of the original line.

With the 1699 sale begins the history of the land tract upon which the Freer House, subject of this sketch is located.

Later maps and deeds indicate that the property probably came

39

40

originally out of the Schuyler Patent and was included in the piece sold to Sanders and Harmense in 1699.1 Robert Sanders, the patentee, died in 1703 and subsequently his widow Elsie and his son Thomas Sanders came to Poughkeepsie to live. Thomas had inherited land in the area upon his father's death, some of which he sold off after his arrival in Dutchess County.

In 1718 (signed July 14, 1718 and recorded August 27, 1718, Libre 1 page 4) Thomas Sanders and his wife Aeltie sold a messuage and piece of land in Poughkeepsie to Aert Masten of the same place. Adjoining property owners indicate that in all liklihood this was the site of the stone house.2 The sale included forty-two morgains, more or less; a morgain equalling 2.1 acres. Whether or not Aert Masten ever lived on the land is simply conjecture; at any rate, on March 12, 1724/25 Mr. Masten sold the property (Libre 1 page 54) to Simeon Freer of Ulster County.

Simeon Freer was descended from Hugo Freer3, patentee of New Paltz, in the line of Hugo Freer II. In 1720 Simeon had married Maritje Van Bommel, and sometime thereafter moved from New Paltz to Poughkeepsie.

The property Simeon purchased from Aert Masten in 1724/25 equalled forty-two morgains, exactly the same as the original sale from Sanders to Masten. On October 21, 1737 "Symon Freer" augmented his land holdings by purchasing from Timothy Low eighty acres on the east side of the King's Highway, west of the first parcel (Libre 1 page 218).4 Simeon probably farmed both parcels and settled down to raise his family of eleven children. The first civic mention of Simeon Freer was on April 7, 1730 when he was chosen surveyor of fences in the Poughkeepsie Precinct. At the town meeting of April 1, 1732 he was chosen precinct constable, which honor he declined in favor of Abraham Springsteen. In 1739 he was an Ensign of the Poughkeepsie Militia Company in .011. Gilbert Livingston's Regiment, and in 1744 he signed a Call for a Dutch minister for the Poughkeepsie Church. By February of 1755 three of his sons, Simeon Jun., Peter, and John had joined him on the Poughkeepsie tax lists.5 There are no known deeds recording any purchases by Simeon Jun. or Peter, however John Freer purchased land on May 29 and 30, 1755 (as per recital in Libre 3 page 274) from Elias and Susanna DuBois, (lot #5 of Henry Van der Burgh's property, granted unto his daughter Susanna DuBois on August 19, 1752).

John Freer's house existed until the early 1960's6 about three miles south of the Court House at Poughkeepsie on the east side of the King's Highway.

In February of 1756 another son, Jacobus, is added to the tax list. Jacobus had married Antonetta Lewis7 on September 21, 1755 and his inclusion on the '56 tax list indicates they had set up housekeeping in Poughkeepsie, however no deeds are recorded for Jacobus at this time.

Simeon Freer and his four sons appear yearly in the tax lists until 1759 when Simeon Freer's death is apparently indicated by a change to Simeon Freer estate. In 1767 the tax entry changes to Widow Freer. There is no will recorded for Simeon Freer, but evidence indicates that the estate went to the widow. Many early wills provide that the estate go to the wife for her widowhood or her life, and upon her death

41

then pass to the children. This may have been the case with Simeon Freer.

In 1769 the tax records change again, this time to Widow Freer and Nathan; Nathan being the youngest child of Simeon and Maritje Freer. In 1770 the tax records change to only Nathan, apparently marking the death of Maritje Van Bommel Freer.

Accepting the theory that the Simeon Freer land would now be clear for inheritance by the children, certain real estate activity should bear this out.

An 1806 deed (Libre 20 page 543) relates that when Jacobus Frear died in 1805 he owned a farm that was made up of three separate purchases, the first of which occurred on May 30, 1770. The purchase was apparently shortly after his mother's death, and coupled with the fact that the parties of the first part were all brothers and brothers-in-law of Jacobus, it is reasonable to assume that the purchase was of additional shares of Simeon Freer's estate from other heirs.8 The 1770 purchase included 145 acres, 1 rood and 29 perches.9 On May 20, 1771, Jacobus bought an additional 55 acres from his brother John, and in May of 1804 Jacobus completed his purchases by buying a parcel of 6 acres, 2 roods, and 19 perches from Stephen and Abigail Burton.1° Jacobus Frear, who had been born in Poughkeepsie in 1735, and who had spent his life as a farmer, first appears in the town records in 1771 when he was elected pathmaster from "Bleekers to LeRoy's Bridge." Caught up in the political fervor that preceded the Revolution, Jacobus signed the Association in Poughkeepsie, June-July 1775. On October 17, 1775 he was appointed a Lieutenant in his brother, Colonel John Freer's 4th Dutchess County Militia. In January of 1781 he was appointed an Assessor for the Taking of Property From Persons Whose Sons Had Joined the Enemy. In April of 1781 he was a member of a court martial, and there is reason to believe that at the end of the Revolution he received a bounty as a result of service in his brother's regiment. In November of 1782 he received a legacy of real and personal property from a "James Johnson, soldier in Colonel Philip Van Cortlandt's" regiment, and in January of 1783 he was appointed administrator of the estate of his brother Nathan. In December of 1797 he contributed to help erect the steeple in Christ Church.11 Jacobus Frear died on November 6, 1805, and his will (dated September 1, 1795) left his real estate to his wife for her life or widowhood, and then to his eight children.

Antonetta lived five years longer until March 16, 1810, and during that time she signed off several pieces of property which were transferred to her children.1 After Antonetta's death it is difficult to determine what became of the house and property. It is possible that some of the children stayed on for a number of years, but in 1818 Jacobus Frear entered into an agreement with Elizabeth and William Thomas. Jacobus held an $800.00 mortgage from the Thomases, and they held the property. The parcel described in the mortgage agreement is the same as the piece in the 1833 deed between Jacobus Frear and David Dickinson, except that the mortgage deed only included 111 acres and the 1833 deed included 120 acres. There is, however, an exception in

42

the 1818 agreement; a right-of-way on the western side of the parcel for John S. Frear and John E. Canfield, adjoining property owners on the south. This probably accounts for the difference in acreage.

Despite the several pieces of the farm which had been transferred by Antonetta, by 1833 when the entire farm was sold out of the family, there were still 120 acres of land left. Jacobus' son Jacobus and his wife Elizabeth sold the farm to David Dickinson for $7,000 (Libre 50, page 339).

In 1853, Issac J. Dickinson (son of David Dickinson deceased) and his wife Maria, sold the entire 120 acres to Naomi Donaldson for $5,100.00 (Libre 98, page 472). Naomi Donaldson held the property for eleven years until March 23, 1864, when there is a deed recorded (Libre 126, page 305) that described a sale between Naomi Donaldson and Albert K. and Alfred H. Smiley. The Smiley brothers paid $11,000 for 115 acres, 2 roods and 19.45 perches.

The Smiley brothers themselves are an interesting pair.

Twins, they were born to Daniel and Phoebe Smiley of Vassalboro, Maine on March 17, 1828. As youths, they lived across the road from the Quaker operated Vassalboro Academy (later the Oak Grove School). Quakers themselves, they studied at the school and were encouraged by professors there to further their studies. In 1845, upon graduation from Oak Grove School, they both enterd Haverford College, another Quaker school; this one located near Philadelphia. Upon their graduation from Haverford in 1849, they were both employed by the school as instructors.

In 1853 Alfred and Albert moved to Philadelphia and established an English and Classical Academy to prepare boys for college. In 1845 Alfred married Rachel Mott Swann, and their first child, Edward Albert Smiley was born in 1855.

In 1856 Alfred accepted a teaching position at Oskaloosa, Iowa and Albert closed the Philadelphia Academy and returned to Vassalboro to take charge of the Oak Grove School. In 1857 Albert married Eliza Phelps Cornell. Albert and Eliza had a daughter, Annette, in 1858, but she died in 1863 and Albert and Eliza never fully recovered from the loss.

In 1859, Alfred and Albert, reunited after a three year separation, received A.M. degrees from Haverford College and in 1860 they both accepted administrative and teaching positions at the Friend's School in Providence, Rhode Island.

Alfred acted as Associate Principal from 1860-1868, and Albert was the Principal from 1860-1879.

According to Larry Burgess, author of The Smileys: Alfred, Albert, and Daniel, Alfred decided in 1868 to move to a farm where his family, now consisting of three girls and three boys could have room to roam. Deed records indicate he had owned the Poughkeepsie property with his brother since 1864, so perhaps he had only used it sporadically during the intervening years.13 He moved his family to what he described as the "old Donaldson milk farm which was at the end of Ferris Lane, and largely surrounded by dense woods." Alfred described his life there further by saying that the boys milked the cows and that they sold the milk and home-grown vegetables. Alfred fully expected to "live there the rest of our lives."

It was not to remain so peaceful, however. One day in 1869 Alfred took his family hiking behind New Paltz and their hike led them to Mohonk. Their lives were never to be the 43

same after that day. Alfred immediately cabled Albert who was still in Providence, and after some persuasion the two of them began the long and illustrious development of Mohonk and Minnewaska, ending Alfred's pastoral life in Poughkeepsie.

Whether or not Alfred lived in the stone house has been questioned by modern traditions. There was a victorian house which stood later on the property, and some people suggest that Alfred built this structure for his large family. The 1876 Atlas of Dutchess County only shows one house on the property and identifies it as a Smiley house. Since Smiley was by this time heavily involved in Mohonk it does not seem likely that he built the victorian house after this date.

The two sons of Alfred Smiley, George and Edward, vividly recalled the years in the stone house, and they described it.14 After the early morning chores they liked to return to the house, creep up the narrow, winding stairs, and catch up on a little more sleep before the daytime chores began.

Their description accurately describes the stone house, and it seems certain that this was the house that they lived in.

After Alfred moved to Mohonk and was serving as the manager there, the house was in all liklihood rented out to various tenants. On October 2, 1885, Alfred and Rachel Smiley sold 47 acres and the house to John Cookingham (Libre 222, page 381). On April 16, 1889, Albert and Eliza, who still owned part of the property, sold 64 and 6/10 acres to Jacob Ruppert of New York City for $3,500.00. Mr. Ruppert was an entrepreneur of some repute, and was responsible for the Hudson River Driving Park in Poughkeepsie. (It is an interesting twist of fate that the temperate Quakers should sell their property to the beer magnate of New York City.)

The purchase of property from Albert Smiley represented a good portion of the future park. The rest of the acreage was a right-of-way that had been withheld from the 1886 sale to Cookingham, but was sold in 1889 to Ruppert. The rightof-way now led to his property.

John Cookingham held the parcel for six years, and in 1891, he sold the property to his son Russell T. Cookingham (Libre 253, page 454).

A deed dated June 30, 1905 indicates that Russell T. Cookingham and his wife Carrie Beale Cookingham sold the easterly part of their property (including the stone house) to Peter Powell. Conversations with Mr. Powell's daughter, Margaret Powell Bell indicate that the date here is a little misleading. According to Mrs. Bell, the Cookinghams had rented the stone house to different families during their ownership of the property, and they had lived in the victorian house on the westerly portion of the property.15 Mrs. Bell relates that in April of 1899 Peter Powell negotiated with the Cookinghams to purchase the property. The arrangement was that Mr. Powell would pay twice a year and the Cookinghams would hold the mortgage. Apparently the sale was not recorded until the mortgage was paid off in 1905.

Peter Powell himself did not live in the stone house, but in the clapboard house to the northwest of the stone house.16 The Powells used the house for extra sleeping rooms and often as a summer kitchen in the hot weather. Truck farmers, the Powells were noted as the largest asparagus growers

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in the Hudson River Valley. They also grew strawberries and corn, and a greenhouse on the property was used to grow double African Violets. The farm required constant attention, so when Peter's son Robert was ready to marry in 1917, Peter had the stone house repaired so that Robert would be enticed to stay and help with the farm work. In 1921, Peter sold the house and some property to Robert (Libre 419, page 450.)

Robert Powell and his wife Hazel lived in the house throughout their marriage. After Hazel's death, Robert remarried and lived there until 1974 when the property was sold to Katherine S. Kerin. During Mr. Powell's occupancy his niece, Helen Bell Chorney, had conveyed a small corner section of the adjoining property to her uncle, and this is included in the Kerin property. During their ownership of the house and property Mr. and Mrs. Kerin have done an enormous amount of restoration work, returning the house and property to their original integrity.

45

Construction and Architecture of the House The stone house at 70 Wilbur Boulevard is distinctive in that it retains many early features, maintained intact in spite of the many changes in ownership. It is a typical midHudson Valley stone farmhouse of the early to mid 18th century period, and as such is unique to the City of Poughkeepsie. / 2 story, low rectangular structure of a The house is a 11 typically early 18th century European design. Wall construction is of coursed fieldstone, with the gable end constructed of the same material. The plan of the south facade is asymmetrical, with two windows on the right of a door, and one on the left. The original 12 over 12 windows were removed in the 20th century, with brickwork added to reduce the size of the aperture. The placement of the cellar hatch on the front facade is typical of this period of European design. The original front door was replaced with a smaller one circa 1917, but was left in its original position.

The house's original agrarian tie is pointed up by a large, floor level window, centered on the gable end of the upper story of the west facade. The window was once a granary door, and the door framing, although encased in modern trim is still intact. This opening, as well as two small windows on the upper level and one on the lower level has four diamond-shaped pintle holes, and the framing for all four is original and beaded.

A door frame on the east end of the house, now used as an oversized window, once led to additions which were removed during the 19th century. Excavations of the property revealed remnants of the foundations of these additions.

The north, or rear facade is characterized by a mid-19th century frame addition. The original exterior stone walls of this facade are still evident within the house. What appears to be an original 18th century stationary sash with a broad, flat muntin, has been relocated to the north wall of the addition.

The roof line is unchanged and typical of the period.

The virge board is secured with large rose headed nails, and has a beaded edge.

The unusually large stone and brick fireplace supports, notched to receive shelving, are the predominant feature of the basement. The framing for the hatch door leading outside from the basement is probably original, being of period design. There was apparently a root cellar to the east, with an entrance from the basement. The cellar has been filled in, possibly when the additions were built. The door frame to this area is intact. There appears to have been no stairway originally leading to the first floor from the basement.

The original floor plan appears to have consisted of one large room to the east of a center hall, with two smaller rooms to the west. These two rooms were separated by a daub and stick wall which was removed during the 1974 alteration.

The floors are made of wide, random width boards and secured with handwrought nails. Ceiling beams are planed and beaded. An existing enclosed stairway was apparently cut through sometime after the initial construction. There is no indication of any earlier access to the upper story other than by the granary door.

46

There were originally two gable end fireplaces, both interior. There is currently little evidence of the west end fireplace. A possibility is that it was a back to back corner fireplace heating the two smaller rooms. The fireplace on the east end is now substantially smaller than originally.

Its principal feature is the evidence that it was a jambless fireplace. There is still a hearth beneath an adjoining cupboard. A chimney cupboard to the right of the fireplace has its original H hinges, with the interior painted "Dutch Red." The paneling which covers the remaining east wall actually dates from two different periods, the later paneling being added when the fireplace was enclosed and decreased in size.

Much of the paneling has original nails and hardware. The earlier cupboard, constructed of hand planed raised beveled panels has its original H hinges and wrought keep. The three interior butterfly shelves were covered with mustard letharge paint.

Doors on the first floor are mixed in period. There are two vertical board with cross batten doors, and two vertical board with inside panel doors. Both of the latter two have their original Suffolk heart and cusp latches. The trim on these doors is consistent with the earlier cupboard trim.

A hallway to the rear of the house still has early beaded tongue and groove sheathing. What is now a bedroom bookcase and was once a window, appears to be the only original opening to the north.

The upper story or loft was originally one large storeroom. It is now partitioned into rooms and the addition of these partitions may date from the same period as the north lean-to addition. The roof construction, all exposed, is trussed A frame with mortise and tenon pegged beams. A ridge pole was not employed in the roof construction.

Interpretations and Conclusions Despite all available information, the most intriguing question remains, "When was the house built, and by whom?"

Questions of this nature regarding "old houses" are virtually unanswerable without primary documentation. In the case of this house, there is no such material and any response to such a question must be speculative.

It is possible that there was a dwelling on the property when Aert Masten bought it, for the deed mentions a "messuage."

Recorded land transfers covering the greater Poughkeepsie area are sparse before 1735, but the heirs of Sanders, the Patentee, seem to have been quite conscientious in recording deeds.

This should not preclude the potential for unrecorded transfers, however deeds out of Sanders land seem quite precise in land description, at least with regard to indications of the development status of the land. In some instances their deeds call the land "a tract or parcel" to describe an obviously undeveloped area. In other instances "a messuage or tenant farm now occupied" by so and so is used to describe land apparently developed and/or occupied. Quit rent very often is stipulated in these deeds.

The 1718 Sanders to Masten, and the 1724 Masten to Freer deeds, identical in description, use the term "messuage" to describe the land. There is no mention of tenant farm or any specific development, although a quit rent is required.

47

Nicholas Bailey in his English Dictionary, London, 1721, defines "messuage" as "a dwelling house with land adjoining."

Masten, a son of Cornelius Masten of Kingston, married Pieternella Viele in 1704 and had children baptized between 1720 and 1723 at Poughkeepsie. He was known to have been in Dutchess County as early as 1714, and to have had a Crum Elbow association. The liklihood exists that he was living elsewhere in Dutchess County when he purchased the property.

Some kind of primitive dwelling, perhaps only a crude leanto for protection against the weather, could have existed while Masten owned the property. There is little assessment change during Masten's ownership of the property, suggesting that improvements were at a minimum.

The property was purchased in 1724/1725 by Simeon Freer and for twelve years it was apparently the only property owned

by Freer in Dutchess County. He came from New Paltz, probably as early as the 1724/1725 purchase. He shows up on the tax list of 1725/1726. Freer's brother-in-law Marcus Van Bommel had purchased the mill on the Fonteyn Kil from Isaac Tietsoort in 1717, and he was probably the catalyst for Simeon's removal to Dutchess County. Van Bommel's mill was approximately one-half mile from the stone house property.

During the first three years of Freer's ownership the assessment on the property just about doubled, indicating some type of major development. Since Freer already had a family consisting of a wife and five small children, it is safe to assume he required a substantial dwelling. Since this is the only known property owned by Freer at this time, and in view of the substantial assessment increase, it appears that Freer built some substantial dwelling on his newly purchased property.

Although there is some reason to believe that the existing house dates from about 1750, any such assumption appears to be based simply on hearsay. That Jacobus Frear lived in the house is certain, and that it was there when he purchased the property from the other heirs in 1770 seems equally certain. There seems to be ample reason to believe that he farmed the property from about the time of his marriage in 1755, and it has been assumed that he built the house about this time with parental approval.

There are some other interesting considerations, however.

The construction of the house bears striking similarity to Huguenot Ulster County buildings. The jambless fireplace is a notable feature of early 18th century Huguenot architecture.

Other features in the house such as the granary loft point to the stark utilitarian nature of this substantial building.

There seems to be no indication of any adding on to an earlier building.

Considering Simeon Freer's family status when he arrived in Dutchess County, that this parcel was the only known land he owned for some years, and considering the doubling of his assessment within three years, it seems logical to assume he built a house upon this property. Considering the architectural features of the existing building, and the relatively stable assessments for the property during the period 17551770 it seems a strong possibility that Simeon Freer may have built the existing stone house as early as 1725-1728, and that as such it certainly is the earliest house in the City of Poughkeepsie and one of the earliest in Dutchess County.

48

The "good cement stone wan" built around the Frear Burial Ground in 1851.

Inside the stone wall enclosure surrounding the Frear Burial Ground are rows of early gravestones.

49

Frear Family Burial Ground West of the stone house about one-half mile there still exists a burial ground that has always been associated with the house. It is first mentioned in the 1833 deed from Jacobus Frear to David Dickinson, and the northern boundary line forms the south line of the burial ground.

The earliest known interrment is that of Jacobus Frear in 1805, although spaces without stones and early unmarked fieldstone slabs indicate the probability of many earlier burials. The last burial appears to be that of John N. Frear in 1881. Old Gravestones of Dutchess County, New York by Dr. J. Wilson Poucher and Helen Wilkinson Reynolds catalogues the stones that were there in 1924. Since then many of the stones have disappeared, and errors in the compilation have been discovered. The appended list seeks to identify the graves that were listed in 1924, and to correct errors that were made at that time.

In 1911 Walter Frear of Oakland, California, a Frear descendant, communicated the following information to Miss Reynolds. "There was a Frear burial ground on the old farm of Col. John Frear, laid in after common until 1851 when a good cement stone wall was built around it with money that the heirs of John S. Freer received from his estate. The wall cost $700.00."

The 1833 deed map indicates that the John Frear farm was directly west of Jacobus' property and the burial ground.

It is conceivable that the burial ground served for at least both families, and that many of the markers have long since disappeared. Walter Frear's description of the cemetery is remarkably similar to the cemetery that remains. John S. Frear himself is buried there.

Margaret Powell Bell recounts that in 1901, two years after her family moved into the house, a woman named Nelly Frear paid them a visit. She was 91 years old and on her way to California, but before leaving she wanted to see the house where she claimed to have been born. She remembered that there were three leantos built off the east side of the house, and she talked about the cemetery, stating that all her family were buried there. The story is at best hearsay, and exactly who she was is undetermined.

It also seems significant that Dr. Poucher and Miss Reynolds only located two other Frear markers in the Poughkeepsie area, thus indicating that this cemetery indeed was probably a large Frear family burial ground.

Today, there remains twenty-six fieldstone slabs without inscriptions which may be either 18th century Frear burials or possibly slave burials. In 1924 Poucher and Reynolds counted thirty-three marked burials and of these twenty-two remain today. Two stones were found which apparently had been missed in 1924, and three corrections have been made to the Poucher-Reynolds transcriptions. In addition, one marker had been removed after 1924 and has recently been located and returned, bringing the total extant stones which had been catalogued in 1924, to twenty-three.

Although it has been stated (A.N. Mahoney genealogical papers, Adriance Memorial Library) without any apparent verification, that Col. John Frear was buried in Christ Church50

yard, the probability is that he was buried in this Frear burial ground, which adjoined his farm, in a grave the location of which has been lost.

The following is the interrment list for the Frear Burial Ground. The entries are listed as shown on the stones, with background information in parentheses. The use of an asterisk before the entry indicates that the stone is no longer in the burial ground. *1. Frear, Antonetta, d. March 16, 1810, a. 72 y. 18d.

(Wife of Jacobus Frear) 2. Frear, Barnt, d. October 11, 1831, a. 69y. 3m. (son of Jacobus and Antonetta, husband of Rachel Lewis) 3. Frear, Charles, d. at Natchez, Mississippi, October 1825, a. 28y. 2m. (grandson of Jacobus, son of Jacobus and Elizabeth Pells Frear) 4. Frear, Jacobus, d. November 6, 1805, a. 70y. 25d.

5. Frear, James, d. December 24, 1822 in 39th year. (son of Simeon and Mary Van Sickelen, grandson of John and Maria Van Kleeck Frear) 6. Frear, John S., b. January 15, 1778, d. August 11, 1849, a. 71y. (son of Simon and Sarah Van Kleeck, grandson of John and Maria Frear) 7. Frear, Mary, wife of Simon I., d. July 22, 1827, a. 70y.

7m. (Mary Van Sickelen (Lennington), second wife of Simon I., son of John and Maria Frear) 8. Frear, Rachel, wife of Barnt, d. September 4, 1843, a.

82-10-19. (Rachel Lewis, daughter-in-law of Jacobus and Antonetta) 9. Frear Marker Samuel, b. April 1, 1785, d. January 27, 1850 (64-9-27) (son of Simon I. Frear and Mary, grandson of John and Maria) Lavinia, wife of Samuel, d. April 28, 1873, a. 87y.

Simon, d. September 27, 1862, a. 45y. 3m.

Maria, d. September 3, 1865, a. 54y. 8m.

Eliza, d. March 8, 1872, a. 58y.

Catherine, d. November 15, 1879, a. 58y.

Sarah, d. February 17, 1876, a. 52y. (all these are the children of Samuel and Lavinia Frear) 10. Frear, Simon J., d. December 29, 1814, a. 54-10-10. (son of Jacobus and Antonetta, husband of Seletje Palmatier) 11. Frear, Simon I., d. December 17, 1818, a. 65-8-5. (probably the son of John and Maria Frear) *12. Frear, William, d. November 7, 1804, a. 1-5-22.(son of Jacobus Frear and Elizabeth Pells, grandson of Jacobus) 13. Lewis, Leah, b. November 9, 1767, d. March 2, 1835.

(Leah Lewis Dob, wife of Elias Dob, sister-in-law of Barnt Frear) *14. Lewis, Leonard, d. June 23, 1833, a. 69-1-6.(Barent Frear's brother-in-law) 15. Lewis, Nelly, d. August 25, 1831, a. 91-5-12.(sister of Antonetta Frear) *16. Luckey, George B., son of James and Catherine, d. October 17, 1849, a. 5-11-15. (exact relationship unknown, possibly grandson of James and Maria Luckey) 17. Luckey, Hannah, d. July 11, 1866, a. 75y. 6m. ("Annatie" Luckey, b. 1791, daughter of James and Maria Luckey, granddaughter of Jacobus) 51

18. Luckey, James, son of James and Maria, d. June 24, 1825 in 33rd y. (grandson of Jacobus and Antonetta) 19. Luckey, Maria, widow of John Sleight, d. May 17, 1840, a. 75y.3-6. (daughter of Jacobus and Antonetta, her first husband was James Luckey, and John Sleight was her second husband) *20. Pells, Cornelia, daughter of John and Ellen, d. April 30, 1844, a. 36y. (granddaughter of Jacobus and Antonetta) 21. Pells, Ellen Frear, wife of John E., d. March 3, 1833, a. 61y. 2m. ("Neeltjen" Frear, daughter of Jacobus and Antonetta) *22. Pells, Dr. James F., son of John E. and Ellen, and late a surgeons's mate in the U.S. ship Cyane, d. October 17, 1822, a. 21-8-(?). (grandson of Jacobus and Antonetta) 23. Pells Monument A large monument with an urn inscribed Maria Cornelia.

The monument is inscribed Family Tomb.

John E. Pells, a. 76 Ellen, his wife, a. 60 John J. Pells, a. 52 Maria, wife of Morgan L. Smith, a. 43 Cornelia Pells, a. 36 Dr. James F. Pells, Assistant Surgeon, U.S. Navy, a. 22 24. Romaine, James, d. June 3, 1829, a. 23-2-28. (possibly the son of Sartje Frear and Benjamin Romeyn, grandson of Jacobus and Antonetta) 25. Romaine, Jane Maria, d. November 17, 1835, a. 21-1-10. (probably daughter of Sartje and Benjamin Romeyn, granddaughter of Jacobus and Antonetta) *26. Smith, Oliver James, son of Jehiel and Mary, d. September 19, 1831, a. 7m. 29d. (relationship unknown, possibly connected with Maria Pells Smith, wife of Morgan L. Smith) *27. Vandebogart, Peter, d. February 12, 1847, a. 64-2-18. (possibly the son of Peter Van de Bogart and Anna Davidson, relationship to Frears is unknown) *28. Westervelt, Clarissa, daughter of Cornelius and Rebecca, d. August 27, 1813 (?), a. 5m. 10d. (Rebecca was the daughter of John Yerry) 29. Westervelt, Rebecca, wife of Cornelius, d. September 29, 1822, a. 31-7-21. (daughter of John Yerry) 30. Yerry, John, d. August 29, 1833, a. 71-6-26. (Mr. Yerry was an adjoining property owner of Jacobus Frear's) *31. Dob, Elias, son of Elias and Leah, September 3, 1802, a. 15m. 13d. (nephew of Barnt Frear and Rachel Lewis Frear) 32. Drake, Ann, September 5, 1809, a. 19-7-25. (Jacobus' daughter Catherine married John Drake, this girl could be a descendant of Jacobus) 33. Evans, Benjamin, F.R., son of John and Sarah Ann, d. April 11, 1845, a. 2-1-3. (possibly grandson of Sarah Frear and Benjamin Romeyn) Recent research and investigation of existing stones in the cemetery have produced several corrections in the origiftal Poucher-Reynolds listing. The above list reflects these corrections in stones #10, #19, and #24. The same investigation produced the following additions to the list: 34. Westervelt, Daniel, d. October 17, 1860, a. 61y. 9m. 6da. (brother of Cornelius Westervelt) 52

35. Frear Marker (#9) Father Mother Frear, John N., d. 3-22-1881 in his 64th year. (son of Samuel and Lavinia Frear) Footnotes In 1798, Henry Livingston, Jr. made a map of the town1. ship of Poughkeepsie, to which he added a dotted line a certain distance from the Wappingers Creek, meant to indicate the approximate boundaries of the Rombout Patent. It is known that Madame Brett fell heir to the northern section of the partition of the land between the creek and the parallel line, and that this section extended down from the town line to the area of Vassar College. The 1798 map indicates a race ground just within the Rombout Patent and this has long been acknowledged as the site of Vassar College. Further substantiating the Rombout boundary is the mill and the name Swartwout indicated on the map near the race ground. In 1714 Thomas Sanders sold a mill on the Fonteyn Kil (present outlet of Vassar Lake) to Issac Tietsoort, who resold it to Marck Van Bommel in 1717. In 1721 when an accurate survey of the parallel line was made, Sanders' title to the land was disproved and Madame Brett was declared the rightful owner. In 1754 she sold the site of the mill to Johannes Swartwout and the name still appears in that area on the 1798 map.

The 1798 map shows an "I. Freer" with adjacent property owners named Jurry, Low, and I.V.D. Burgh. Jacobus Frear is a later owner of the house. The map delineates the patent boundaries, and accepting that the "I. Freer" is in reality Jacobus Frear, the property is indeed within the Schuyler Patent.

2.

The adjoining property owners listed in the deed included: Johannes Van Kleeck on the north, and Henry Van der Burgh on the south. Johannes Van Kleeck had purchased property in 1712 and later added another parcel. Combined, the two parcels lay on both sides of the present Hooker Avenue. Johannes' son Lawrence probably inherited some or all of the property, and after numerous mortages and sales the property ends up in 1771 going to John Van der Burgh. John Van der Burgh's house existed as late as 1924 opposite the northeast corner of the Driving Park.

Henry Van der Burgh had inherited his property from his father Dirck Van der Burgh (from Jochem Staats, from Peter Schuyler).

Van der Burgh's property was bounded south by the Speck zyn kil, north by the Rust Plaets, west by the Hudson, and east by the Jan Casper Kil.

53

Elizabeth b. 1718

o Cd LO

Rebecca b. 1715

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Jannetjen b. 1713

4-)

(ll ,s4 4-)

(TS P 0 P-1 0 g Cl)

Rachel b. 1710 Benjamin b. 1706

Johannes b. 1705

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6/7/1690 Maria Anna LeRoy

Blandina b. 1703

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Sara b. 1698 Mary b. 1696

at New Paltz

Simon m. b. 1695 Isaac b. 1693

Hugo b. 1691

3.

Hugo Freer Genealogy 54

4/22/1720 Marytjen Van Bommel

The 1737 deed description included the following which 4. further substantiates an earlier conclusion: "all which said tract or parcel are part of a certain large tract heretofore granted by letters patents June 2, 1688, to Major Peter Schuyler of Albany and sold by Schuyler unto Robert Sanders and Myndert Harmense Van Den Bogaert."

55

Nathan b. circa 1732 d. 1781-1782 Johannis Terpenning b. 6/21/1736 d. 9/1/1817

m.

Jannetjen bp. 5/8/1740 d. 12/28/1810 Jeremias bp. 6/4/1738 9/21/1755

m.

Jacobus b. 9/12/1735 bp. 10/5/1735 d. 11/6/1805

4/22/1720

m. 1) 1/10/1752 John b. 9/3/1730 d. 7/11/1809 2) 4/3/1792

6/22/1746

m.

Annatjen bp. 1/19/1729

m.

Rachel bp. 10/30/1726 d. prior to 1771

Antonetta Lewis b. 6/26/1737 d. 3/16/1810

Maria Van Kleeck b. circa 1730 d. after May 1782 Hannah Platt Snedeker d. 5/1800 Peter Van Kleeck bp. 6/1/1725 d. 1793 Cornelius Velie bp. probably 6/11/1718 will proved 3/18/1767

Deborah m. bp. 12/27/1724 d. 11/13/1800

1774

Peter Le Roy bp. 1/3/1722

Petrus m. bp. 6/2/1723 d. after 1780

1) 2/25/1746 2) 5/23/1750 3) 5/24/1767

Cornelia Oostrum Marietje Westervelt Sarah Palmateer bp. 1739

Maria m. bp. 3/11/1722

1) 5/6/1745

David Romnyn probably the one bp. 5/17/1714 d. circa 1755 Peter Low (Lic. 11/9/1761) b. 11/15/1724 d. 1/8/1811

2)

Simeon m. bp. 2/12/1721 will proved 9/25/1797

5.

circa 1742

Catrina VanBenschoten bp. 12/2/1722 d. 7/20/1809

Simeon Freer Genealogy 56

5. continued Compilation of Genealogical Data from: Account Book of a Country Storekeeper In the 18th Century At Poughkeepsie, Poughkeepsie, 1911.

Collections of the Holland Society of N.Y., Vol. I, Part I, Hackensack Church Records, N.Y., 1891.

Dutchess County Clerk's Records.

Dutchess County Surrogate's Court Records.

Heidgerd, Ruth P., The Freer Family, New Paltz, 1968.

Hoes, Roswell R., Kingston Records, New York, 1891.

Marriage Licenses of New York, Albany, 1860, New York Genealogical and Biographical Society Register, Vol. 97, New York.

Poucher, J.W., and Reynolds, H.W., Old Gravestones of Dutchess County, N.Y., Dutchess County Historical Society Collections, Vol. II, 1924.

Poughkeepsie Tax Lists Records of the First Reformed Church of Poughkeepsie, transcribed 1833.

Reese, W.W., 18th Century Records, D.C.H.S. Collections, Vol. VI, 1938.

Reynolds, Helen Wilkinson, miscellaneous notes, Adriance Memorial Library.

Reynolds, Helen Wilkinson, Marriages and Deaths, D.C.H.S. Collections, Vol. IV, 1930.

Van Benschoten, William H., The Van Benschoten Family in America, West Park-On-Hudson, 1907.

Note: ,(Throughout this work both spellings of the family name, Freer, and Frear, have been used. The earlier spelling was used almost exclusively during the first half of the 18th century. As Simeon's sons reached maturity the Frear spelling was introduced, with some using the earlier form and others the later. By 1800 Frear seemed to be the common form.)

6.

Helen Wilkinson Reynolds discusses the John Freer House in her book Dutch Houses in the Hudson Valley Before 1776, published in 1929. At that time the house was still standing. According to local tradition the structure stood on the southeast corner of the present entrance to Evergreen Avenue off the South Road until it was demolished during the early 1960's when Route 9 was widened to a four lane highway.

57

N 0 r-1 N CO (LS r -I r-I -P

Sartje b. 4/9/1782 bp. 7/7/1782

m. 12/14/1799 Benjamin Romeyn b. 11/16/1777 bp. 12/14/1777

Neeltjen b. 1/4/1778 bp. 3/1/1778 d. 3/3/1833

m. 10/23/1792 John Pells b. 6/28/1772 bp. 7/12/1772

m. 3/28/1792 Jacobus b. 9/17/1773 d. 3/9/1858 at Hyde Park

Elizabeth Pells b. 1/22/1768 bp. 3/13/1768 d. 12/28/1854 at Danby, Tompkins County

Elizabeth m. 1122/1789 b. 8/22/1767 bp. 9/13/1767

William Luckey

m.

Mary b. 2/11/1765 d. 5/17/1840

James Luckey b. 1763 prob. d. 8/23/1819 John Sleight

1-1

Q) N 0 t.0 -P • • r=4 4 rd

2)

m. 10/30/1783 Rachel Lewis Barent b. 10/15/1760 b. 7/13/1762 d. 10/11/1831 d. 9/4/1843

m. 7/4/1782 Simon b. 2/26/1760 d. 12/29/1814

Seletje Palmatier b. circa 1755

m.

Catherine b. 12/13/1757

John Drake

Compilation of Genealogical Data: Records of The First Reformed Church of Poughkeepsie, transcribed 1833.

Heidgerd, Ruth P., The Freer Family, New Paltz, 1968.

Reynolds, Helen Wilkinson, Marriages and Deaths, Dutchess County Historical Society Collections, Vol. IV, 1930.

7.

Jacobus Frear Genealogy

58

8.

The 1770 deed was between Simon Frear, Peter Low, and others (parties of the first part), and Jacobus Frear (party of the second part). Often the "and others" in a deed indicates that the parties are related, and often they are all joint inheritors to an estate. Reference is made to footnote #5. Simeon Frear, the first mentioned grantor is the eldest boy in the family. Women's rights not being what they are today, many legal transactions took place in the husband's name, and this accounts for the inclusion of Peter Low and his connection to the family.

Ruth Heidegerd, author of The Freer Family Genealogy does not list Maria as being married to Peter Low, but rather to Thomas Bennett. A 1795 deed between Henry Van der Burgh of Poughkeepsie and John Yerry refers back to an indenture dated May 13, 1770, and this seems to refute Mrs. Heidegerd's information and bear out the relationship between Low and the Frears. The parties of the second part in the 1770 deed were Michael and Elizabeth Yerry and the parties of the first part were: Simeon Frear, Peter Low and Mary, his wife, Peter Frear, Peter LaRoy and Deborah, his wife, Cornelius Velie and his son, Peter Velie, eldest son and heir at law of Rachel, deceased daughter of Simeon Freer and late wife of Cornelius Velie, Peter Van Kleeck and Annatje his wife, John Freer, Johannis Terpenning and Jannetjen, his wife, Jacobus and Nathan. Comparing this listing to footnote #5, the conclusion is undeniable. Further proof that Maria Freer was married to Peter Low comes from the Records of the First Reformed Church of Poughkeepsie 1716-1824. In several instances Maria Freer and Petrus Low are listed as witnesses for baptisms. In one particular instance, May 11, 1777, the witnesses are listed as "Petrus Low, and wife, Maria Freer".

Accepting the fact that Peter Low was a brother-in-law, it seems apparent that Jacobus' 1770 purchase was from his relatives and that it was probably part of a recent inheritance upon the death of his mother.

9.

It is at this point that the conclusions of Miss Helen Wilkinson Reynolds are at variance with those of this paper.

In her book Dutch Houses in the Hudson Valley Before 1776, Miss Reynolds tentatively assigns the construction of the house to Barent Kip or Lawrence Van Kleeck. She states that Barent Kip owned the land from 1753-1760 and that Lawrence Van Kleeck owned the land from 1761-176 (8?). A deed dated April 1761 (Libre 16, page 394) between Hesekiah Du Bois Jun and Lawrence Van Kleeck Junr is apparently where Miss Reynolds found the dates and owners. Drawn up, the property described in the deed looks like the 1761 map.

There is a clear chain of title for the house from the 1833 deed between Jacobus Frear and David Dickinson and the present. It seems clear from comparing the 1833 map and the 1770 map that the 1770 property was the same parcel. That takes the property clearly back to 1770. If Miss Reynolds' theory is to be accepted, the 1770 parcel and the parcel from the 1761 deed should be somewhat the same. When viewed together it becomes obvious, however, that rather than being the same parcel they are adjoining properties with even the same natural markers. The 1761 deed indicates that the adjoining property to the west was that of S. Freer. It does not, therefore, seem possible that the property Jacobus Frear bought in 1770 and whose title is clear to the present 59

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SIMON FREER, PETER LOW TO JACOBUS FREA R MAY 30, 1770 61

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62

DUBOIS (DECEASED)

is the Kip-Van Kleeck property. It seems more likely that the property was, from a very early period, held by the Freer family. An overlay of the 1833 Frear boundaries on a modern Poughkeepsie zoning map clearly bears out that the stone house is on what was Frear property.

10. There are no recorded deeds for Stephen and Abigail Burton. Old Gravestones of Dutchess County, New York lists the gravestones in the Van der Burgh Cemetery which was near the east fence of the Hudson River Driving Park property. Both Stephen and Abigail Burton were buried in this cemetery; he in 1842 and she in 1850. It is possible that she was a Van der Burgh before her marriage to Stephen Burton.

11. a. Edmund Platt, Eagle's History of Poughkeepsie, Poughkeepsie, 1905, pg. 33. b. Calendar of Historical Manuscripts Relating to the War of the Revolution, 2 Vol., Albany, 1868, Vol I, pg. 78. c. Documents Relatin9 to the Colonial Histor of the State of New York, E.B. O'Callaghan, Ed., Vol. XV, New York in the Revolution, Albany 1857, pg. 280. d. Clinton Papers, Vol. VI, Albany, 1900, pg. 586. e. Ibid., pg. 763. f. James A. Roberts, New York in the Revolution, Albany, 1904. (Jacobus is listed in this work as receiving a land bounty right. The possibility is that he sold this right, though no record of it has come to light.

The family of his son Jacobus did have an association with Tompkins County in which some bounty land was located.) g. New-York Historical Society Collections, Abstracts of Wills, Vol. XII, pg. 69. (Johnson's will is dated April 23, 1782 and was proven November 19, 1782.

How Jacobus came to be Johnson's legal heir is unknown, however research in Revolutionary records appears to indicate a possible explanation. There were two James Johnsons in Van Cortlandt's Regiment of the Line (Roberts, New York in the Revolution, and Orderly Book of the 4th and 2nd N.Y. Regiment); one a private, and the other a lieutenant who is known to have died in 1800 and who therefore could not have been the maker of the 1782 will (Institution of the Society of the Cincinnati, N.Y., 1851). This evidence and the fact that he describes himself as a "soldier" leaves little doubt that it was Private James Johnson who named Jacobus as his heir. Johnson, a weaver born in Scotland, was seventeen years old when he enlisted January 31, 1779 at Rochester in Ulster County, in Van Cortlandt's Regiment, (Calendar of Historical Manuscripts Relating to the War of the Revolution, Vol. II, pg. 375). Although he served through all of the campaigns of the regiment, he seems, at least on several occasions, to have encountered difficulties in the regiment. On July 12, 1780 he was found guilty of being absent without leave and was sentenced to receive 100 lashes on the bare back. He was accused of stealing rum in October of 1780 but was subsequently acquitted (Orderly Book of the 4th N.Y. and 2nd N.Y. Regiment). It seems there can be only two reasons for Johnson's association with Jacobus. He could have been confined at 63

Jacobus's house for an offense, since it was common to place military offenders in the custody of local citizenry. There is however, no mention in the Regimental Orderly books of any accusation against Johnson during this period. The most likely possibility is that Johnson was taken seriously ill. Jacobus Frear had no known associations with Van Cortlandt's Regiment, portions of which are known to have been in Rombout in 1782 (N.Y. G. & B. Record, Vol. II, pg.

186). There seems no reason to suspect any type of business relationship between Jacobus and Johnson since there was no reason for a soldier to be involved in business or for one to have known the other.

If it were for reasons of debt, Johnson had an ample opportunity to have borrowed funds from officers or others in his regiment without going to a Poughkeepsie farmer. That Jacobus became Johnson's heir indicates an intimacy far beyond a casual association; it may indeed have been out of gratitude. That a twenty year old should die, even in 1782, suggests a rather serious illness. The three witnesses to Johnson's will were Jacobus twenty year old son Barent, William Wilsey of Poughkeepsie, and William Hyer, apparently a refugee from New York City, (N.Y. Historical Society Collections, Abstracts of Wills, Vol. XIV, pg. 331) thus indicating it was signed in Poughkeepsie. The evidence would seem to indicate that Johnson, being ill, had been placed in the care of Jacobus Frear and his family; a move which was common during the Revolution when there was a scarcity of military medical facilities. Johnson, realizing there was a bounty due him for service, could have named Jacobus his heir out of gratitude when it became apparent he might die. Though his will was proven in November 1782, the exact date of Johnson's death is not known, and having no apparent family, the possibility exists he was buried in the Frear burial ground in a now unmarked grave. During 1782 and 1783 Suffolk County Judge Jared Landon probated wills and took care of surrogate matters for soldiers in Van Cortlandt's Regiment, travelling to Rombout and Kingston. On February 5, 1783 Johnson's will was filed at Kingston before Judge Landon, (Anjou, Ulster County New York Probate Records, N.Y., 1906, Vol. II, pg. 102) and on February 20, 1790 Jacobus Frear made a claim for a soldiers right of bounty lands conveyed

by James Johnson in his will (Calendar of N.Y. Colonial Manuscripts, Land Papers, Albany, 1864, pg. 806).

No record has been found as to whether or not Jacobus received the bounty, although the family of his son Jacobus seemed to have had an association with Tompkins County, in which some of the Revolutionary bounty land was located. h. Dutchess County Clerk's Office, Ancient Documents No. 6028 and 10679. (Jacobus was named administrator of the Nathan Frear estate on January 25, 1783. During the later part of the same year he sued Nathan Bailey over a 2000 lb. debt due on a bond of March 4, 1778 from Bailey to Nathan Frear.)

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i. Helen Wilkinson Reynolds, Records of Christ Church, Poughkeepsie, 1921, Vol. I, pg. 94.

12. Libre 20, page 543 (Antonetta Frear and Simon to John E. Pells; an equal undivided one-eighth of Jacobus Frear's estate.)

Libre 20, page 547 (Antonetta Frear and James and Maria Luckey; an equal undivided one-eighth of Jacobus Frear's estate to John E. Pells.)

13. The map of the Town of Poughkeepsie in the 1867 Atlas of Dutchess County shows that the Smileys owned a house in the vicinity of the location of the stone house. It was without much doubt the stone house. This is before Burgess' date of 1868 and supports the 1864 deed.

14. A newspaper article written by Priscilla Flowers for a local newspaper on March 20, 1938 included statements from the sons of Alfred Smiley. Whether or not she interviewed them is unclear.

15. Mrs. Bell also tells another interesting story about a tenant in the stone house. When she was a small girl living in the area, a black man named Jake lived in the cellar of the stone house. Mrs. Bell's mother would often bring food to Jake. Local tradition holds that Jake had been a slave who had refused to leave the farm when he was emancipated.

Who he had belonged to is unknown. Without heat, and without much food, Jake froze to death in winter one year, and was found by Mrs. Bell's mother.

16. This house was previously occupied by Russell Cookingham.

The authon woutd !Like to thank Bakbatta Smith Buy and Towntey Shatp

OJL theik a44,L6tance on th,i.4 AzpoAt.

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OUR ALMOST FORGOTTEN HERO HARVEY G. EASTMAN Founder of Eastman Business College Elizabeth I. Carter

"He hit Poughkeepsie like an exploding meteorite!"

"He had flashing blue eyes and the head of a genius."

"He literally gave his life for his adopted city."

These were some of the comments made immediately after the death of one of Poughkeepsie's most colorful and illustrious citizens in July, 1878, just one hundred years ago.

They paint in a very few words a portrait of a man who has challenged every "painter of history" since his time. One artist might slap together a caricature of a man arrayed in a suit of bright colors, a high white beaver hat with a six-inch brim, riding around Poughkeepsie in his white barouche drawn by four horses (all with white feet).

Another more truthful artist might portray an ambitious, energetic, dynamic gentleman whose very profile bespoke all of these qualities. But it would take an artist of unusual perception, ability and understanding to paint the ultimate portrait, one which would show the true character and personality of "H.G." as he came to be known.

It would have to picture him in three dimensions, for underneath his showman-promotor exterior were hidden more subtle qualities - generosity, love of his city and devotion to the youth of the country.

It is hard to start the life story of such a man at the usual beginning, but how else can we start? Harvey Gridley Eastman was born in Marshall, Oneida County, New York on October 16, 1832. His ancestors had come from England to Massachusetts in 1638, and later generations had migrated to central New York. Harvey's father was a farmer and most of the boy's time was spent helping with the farm work. He could "read, write and cipher" but his schooling was intermittent at best.

At nineteen he began working for his uncle, George Washington Eastman, who operated a school in Rochester where young men could learn penmanship and arithmetic.

(Harvey's younger cousin, George, started as a teller in a Rochester Bank and later founded the famous Eastman Kodak Company.) After a disagreement with his uncle, Harvey started a school of his own in Oswego and soon moved on to set up one in St. Louis, Mo. It was at this point that his interests began to widen beyond the operation of a "business school" for he started to invite renowned speakers on the anti-slavery issue to lecture to his students and to all who wished to join them. This led very quickly to a head-on clash with the St. Louis authorities and he had to leave.

He had heard favorably about a town on the Hudson River, stratigically located halfway between New York and Albany and noted as an educational center. (It had some 50 private schools of all sizes.) It was a bustling industrial and commercial center and although he had never set foot in it, Eastman chose it for the location of his 66

new "State and National Business College."

And now his genius becomes strikingly evident. He wrote tremendous amounts of advertizing material, expatiating on the opportunities which would be showered upon those who attended his "College" (all of which proved to be true), and he circularized "every state in the Union and all the islands of the sea". He would teach "book-keeping and penmanship, combining Theory with Practise."

So convincing was his advertizing campaign that responses began to flood the little Post Office on Garden Street until the Postmaster demanded, "Who is this Eastman anyway? All this mail addressed to him is piling up in so many baskets that there's no room for the regular mail!" On November 16, 1859, aged 27, Eastman arrived and picked up his mail - and Poughkeepsie was never the same again!

He took out a surprisingly modest ad in the Poughkeepsie Journal, only a 4-inch space, one column wide. It read, " 'Eastman State and National Business College' will be open for both Ladies and Gentlemen, established as a permanent School of Instruction in the Practical Arts of Life."

Until this time, the colleges and universities had scorned "the useful arts" as too mundane to be included in their curricula. Courses pertaining to the world of business were not even considered. Latin, Greek and classical literature were the substance of higher education.

However, with the industrial revolution rolling into high gear across the country, the new industries and commercial houses were crying for trained accountants and business administrators - and Harvey Eastman was about to supply them.

He promptly rented one room on Market Street across from the Savings Bank for which he paid 75 cents a week, and with one student, a young man from Newburgh, the new Business College was off and running. (The story is told that Eastman met this young man and his father in a restaurant and persuaded them to enroll the son.) Within three months he had 20 students, moved to larger quarters on Vassar Street and later rented the beautiful church (still standing), on the corner of Vassar and Mill Streets from the man who had bought it from the Congregationalists in 1860 - none other than Matthew Vassar, Jr. who noted in his diary, "Today I rented it to Harvey Eastman for $250.00 a year."

As the years progressed, so did the College. Eastman never built a classroom or a dormitory during his short lifetime. As the enrollment grew at an amazing pace, he rented more and more classroom space in public buildings, in churches, in the old City Hall, and he arranged for students to room and board in private homes. This proved to be a bonanza for Poughkeepsie homeowners. During the Civil War years over 100 families were keeping an average of four students. Mr. Eastman paid $3.50 for each one, which meant an income of $14.00 a week, a tidy sum at that time.

Another result of this arrangement was that such intimate friendships were formed with the daughters in all 67

these households that many romances developed. Poughkeepsie even benefitted from these because many of the bridegrooms stayed on in the city and became business and civic leaders. After "H.G.'s" death, when a college building was finally erected on Washington Street, a popular joke went like this: "There should be an inscription over the door reading, 'Eastman's Gift to Poughkeepsie's Young Women'".

The charge for the 3-month course was $100.00 which included tuition, board and room and all books and supplies. The school was never closed except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. A student could commence at any time and graduations were held weekly. (A similar system has recently been adopted by the Culinary Institute of America.) Any student could come back for a refresher course anytime without charge.

Eastman promised each graduate a job, a promise which he had no trouble in fulfilling because firms like John Wanamaker wrote asking for 20-25 from the next class.

Alumni formed State Societies and helped one another to obtain positions in industry, government and other colleges.

As time went on more and more courses were added.

Eastman's theme was "Learning by Doing", a concept which many years later was to become a popular one in educational circles. A student learned banking by working in the college bank; he learned about stocks and bonds on the College Stock Exchange (with a direct telephone line to Wall Street in later years); he worked in the College Post Office selling Eastman stamps and making out money orders.

There were other "Ventures and Services" - an Emporium where actual goods were sold, an insurance agency, a shipping company, the young men made out all sorts of forms, duplicates of those they would be using in the real business world, and counted out the money as carefully as if it were real. Actually, it did have a fractional worth 1 cent equalled 50 U.S. cents. When a student graduated, he was ready to start right in working for any business house without need of a long orientation period because he had already performed every chore involved. How was it possible to learn so much in 12 weeks?

So realistic were the varying operations that some students made fortunes (on paper) and bequeathed them to successors upon graduation. It is also recorded that some students went bankrupt! They moved from one branch of study to another under the strict surveillance of a fellow student, who in turn, was monitored by an "Umpire", an instructor. And H. G. was personally supervising everyone to make sure that all received fair treatment. It was part of his genius that he could keep in close touch with every detail of the College even in the later years when his activities were so varied and so numerous.

Needless to say, with the pressure to learn so much in such a short time there were never any disciplinary problems. Everyone was much too busy to misbehave!

All printing of textbooks, stamps, money, forms and advertising materials was done as part of the training and many examples may be seen in Adriance Memorial Library.

Some of them are really works of art.

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It is difficult for us to grasp what the impact of the College must have been on every phase of life in Poughkeepsie. When Eastman came in 1859, it had a population of 14,000. During the next 10 years, the city grew to over 20,000, due mainly to its rapid industrial expansion.

However, it was a very tightly-built, compact town and the continual arrival of hundreds of young men, living and going to school in the heart of the city was bound to have a tremendous economic effect.

Mr. Eastman was a strong churchman, a member of the First Dutch Church, then located at the corner of Washington and Main Streets, and he urged church attendance on the part of his boys. The churches became social centers for young people, especially on Sunday evenings when they were crowded with Eastman students and local young ladies.

It was then that many romances bloomed.

While we are looking with amazement at the workings of the college itself, we are not to lose sight of the man who not only dreamed it into existence, but who operated it so successfully, attracting outstanding "professors", constantly improving the curriculum and making changes to fit the changing needs of the times. Everywhere his promotional literature went, the beauty and desirability of Poughkeepsie as a place to live and do business went along.

His descriptions of Poughkeepsie are positively lyrical!

The cover of one of his brochures showed his "Mansion" in the center encircled by pictures of elegant Greek Revival buildings and other imposing structures labelled "First College", "Second College", etc. Actually, Eastman only rented 2 or 3 rooms in each. The buildings were: The Cannon Street Methodist Church (now Masonic Temple).

The Church at the corner of Vassar and Mill Streets.

Washington Street Methodist Church.

The City Hall The Collingwood Opera House The McLean Building The pictures were engravings, not photographs, which made it possible for the artist to take liberties with the size and appearance of the buildings, supplying a setting of trees and grass, giving the impression of a handsome campus.

Small wonder that many of the arriving students were dumbfounded to find no campus, no dormitories, only widelyseparated buildings along cobblestone or muddy streets.

There is no record, however, of any prospective student returning home after the first disillusionment. Many have said that Eastman was at least 50 years ahead of his time, especially as a promoter, and some of his schemes seem to border precariously on the verge of being misleading if not worse. Certainly his methods proved to be effective.

Although he was only in his 30's, he quickly became a father-figure to his boys and "Don't" was one of his favorite words: "Don't Read Novels - Don't Drink - Don't Smoke - Don't Swear - Don't Chew - Don't Deceive."

But he realized that they needed some outlet for recreation and plain fun. So he organized "The Eastman Band" which served the double purpose of promoting the 69

College. He had it outfitted in typically elegant style ornate uniforms, straw hats with bright-colored ribbons sparing no expense. It travelled all over the South and the Middle West, giving concerts and signing up new -students. It was a great success, although some of its members had never played a musical instrument before. No parade or public event in Poughkeepsie was complete without the Eastman Band.

The band was selected to lead the funeral cortege of the assassinated President Lincoln up Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, and it rode his funeral train as far as Buffalo, playing funeral dirges at each stopping place.

One of the stops was Poughkeepsie where the train rolled silently into the station on its muffled wheels at 10:30 P.M. on April 25th, 1865, and "every able-bodied person was on hand to pay their respects to the martyred President." Grim as all this sounds, it must have been a welcome relief from the incessant practice in buying, selling, lending and borrowing.

One of H.G.'s innovative promotions was his use of decorative stationary. His envelopes carried large pictures on the back (why waste all that blank space?) and the paper itself was sometimes so covered with ornamentation that there was little space left for writing. The word "EXCELSIOR", the College motto, in flowery, Spencerian script appeared on almost everything. Since "perfect penmanship" was a requirement for every student, Eastman invented a rather cumbersome device, a ball to be held in the hand with a metal band to go around the first finger and a clip to attach to a pen. It held the hand in a most uncomfortable position, but it helped to produce the uniform, flowing, hand-writing so much admired at the time.

Beautiful penmanship was not only a status symbol, but a commercial asset.

At one time, so much mail came to the College through the Poughkeepsie Post Office, that it took 7 secretaries to answer it. Students came from every state in the Union as well as from Mexico, Colombia, Puerto Rico and Canada.

The outgoing mail was equally heavy because Eastman's printing press was constantly busy turning out advertising material. Surfeited as we are today with all varieties of commercials and advertising schemes, it is hard for us to understand the astonishment of people over Eastman's willingness to spend $60,000 in one year for space in New York newspapers.

His genius for publicity took many forms. At the close of the Civil War, he paid men to distribute literature among the Southern soldiers, extolling the school and calling attention to the fact that "now that the plantations are gone as well as many other means of livelihood, you will do well to come North and learn the ins-and-outs of the business world and fit yourselves for the lean years to come." It proved to be very effective because the enrollment of the school jumped to an all-time high of 2000 students, many of them from the southern states.

At that same time, the Adriance Plow and Reaper plant was nearing completion down by the river. Eastman rented 70

it and gave a dinner for 2500 men, most of them returning soldiers. Smith Brothers catered and the local paper reported the following day, "It is hard to see how even Smith Brothers could feed such a multitude." But H.G. loved nothing so much as to do things on a grand scale and he later claimed that the affair had been very profitable because many signed up immediately to attend the "College."

For some time, he had envisioned a chain of Eastman Business Colleges across the country and he decided that the time was now ripe for expansion. Choosing Chicago, centrally-located and a rapidly-developing industrial city, he utilized all his talent and experience to set up a college there which would even out-do the parent institution in Poughkeepsie.

He dispatched the Eastman Band on a concert tour for the purpose of arousing interest in the new college, culminating in a series of concerts in the great Crosby Opera House in Chicago.

By this time, Eastman Business College had won wide recognition and it was not too difficult to enroll 600 prospective students, with H.G.'s brother, Edward P. Eastman as Principal.

For the final concert, the advertisements proclaimed that the renowned Civil War hero, General William T. Sherman, would occupy the platform. This was a typical Eastman gamble. It was known that Sherman would be passing through Chicago on a train from the west to Washington on that day. The city officials had already tried in vain to get the General to stop off for a public reception. Eastman too, had invited him but had had no answer. Quietly, on the afternoon of the concert, having learned that the General's train would have to make a watering-stop some miles west of Chicago, he drove there, boarded the train, and got an introduction to the General. He explained the situation, told him about the immense throng of 4000 people who were waiting_eagerly to greet him and promised that he would not be delayed one hour. As usual, H.G.'s powers of persuasion proved to be irresistable. The General consented, and when the train pulled into the Chicago Station a 4-horse barouche was waiting to whisk them to the Opera House. General Sherman was on the stage in front of a sea of faces, listening to a roar of applause and was so overcome that he even made a short speech before resuming his trip to Washington.

The newspapers the next day "were full of wonderment" over Mr. Eastman's coup and "his name was on everyone's lips - a great start for the new Business College, the largest ever to be opened in the West." But alas! Despite its felicitous beginning, the new venture failed to flourish. In two years Edward Eastman became ill and died "due to overwork" and the school closed.

Eastman's popularity in Poughkeepsie had been growing steadily. He was in great demand as a speaker and his rhetoric was as flamboyant as his actions. In one speech he said, "We have Yale and Harvard for those who want to go into the professions. We have West Point for those who want to go make the Army a career and Newport for Navy Officers, but no school but mine exists for those who 71

want to have the most profitable career of all - making money. That is the world's pursuit - only money gives bread, clothing, homes and comfort." And who could disagree with that?

Naturally he had his critics and detractors. Once his enthusiasm (and his ego) carried him a bit too far and he stated that by his efforts "the old foggy Dutch town of Poughkeepsie had been transformed into a Paradise!" That brought down a torrent of criticism and ridicule upon his head, which he probably deserved, even though there was a good bit of truth in his claim.

With the school running satisfactorily, he became more and more involved in the improvement and expansion of his city. He bought 27 acres of swampy land at the southern end of Market Street and transformed them into a beautiful "show place" - a park with winding paths bordered with exotic trees and flowers, a lake with an island in the middle on which he built a bandstand. There was a skating rink in winter and a baseball field in summer, a zoo and a conservatory - and it was all open to the public.

He built a large carriage-house close to Montgomery Street (that section of which was re-named "Eastman Place"), intending to build his Mansion farther back in the Park later. Due to his untimely death, that never came to pass, but the carriage-house was enlarged by Mrs. Eastman and was always called "The Eastman Mansion." Some years after her death in 1907, the Park was sold to the city and "The Mansion" was occupied by the Board of Public Works offices.

The last two bears in "the zoo" were finally disposed of in the early 1940's.

The idea of a railroad bridge crossing the river at Poughkeepsie, had been discussed ever since 1855, but it took the vision and energy and persuasion of a Harvey Eastman to make it a reality. It would connect the industries of New England with the coal fields of Pennsylvania and it would bring untold benefits to the city. The proposal brought violent protests from the riverboat men whose livelihood depended upon the huge transport business they carried on, using the river as their thoroughfare. Other river towns jealously opposed it also.

To understand something of the enormity of the idea, we must try to put it into the context of the post-Civil War period. Yes, a great bridge had been built at St. Louis and the Brooklyn Bridge was just getting under way, but for little Poughkeepsie to consider an even longer one? Preposterous impossible! But Harvey Eastman's vocabulary contained no such word as "impossible" and he threw his whole heart and soul into the project, even getting the famous engineer who had planned the bridge at St. Louis, James Eads, to commit himself to one at Poughkeepsie. While working through the legislature in Albany to get a charter permitting the building of the bridge, he was busy rallying financial support from local business and civic leaders.

Never one to tackle a single project at a time, he proposed a memorial for the soldiers who had given their lives in the War. The first plan was for a 70 foot high monument in the triangle in front of his home, but due to the great popularity of The Temperance Movement in which he and many of the leading citizens were very active, the plan was re72

vised "in order to promote water," it was said, and the memorial took the form of a fountain (even though there were no water pipes nearer than the corner of Main and Market Streets!).

Eastman circulated "subscriptions" asking people how much they would be willing to contribute, but they were so slow in responding to the appeal that he gave the rest of what was required, $70,000, and the fountain was erected.

A six-foot trench had to be dug from Main Street to the fountain site - all by hand, of course. On July 4, 1870, the Fountain was dedicated amid elaborate ceremonies, including a balloon ascension.

In 1871 H. G. was elected Mayor. He served for two terms during which he also served in the State Legislature (for the sole purpose of getting the Bridge Bill passed).

Ever since the frightful epidemic of cholera which had killed scores of people in 1832, the city had been subject to one eipdemic after another - typhiod fever, smallpox, diphtheria. Aware of the fact that the cause was due to the polluted wells so close to the outhouses in the compact center of town, the new mayor sent an eminent engineer, James P. Kirkwood, to England to find out how to build a waterpurification plant. He brought back plans and in remarkably short order, the first sand-filtration plant in the United States was built on the North Road. In 1872, water pipes were laid throughout the city and the epidemics came to an end. That one accomplishment alone should place Mr. Eastman well up to the top of our list of local heroes: But he never rested. His active brain conceived the idea of making Eastman Park into "The Central Park of Poughkeepsie." In 1872, as part of that plan, he started to build 23 Town Houses on a terrace overlooking the park. However, after 10 were completed, he found that they were not as enthusiastically received as he had expected. They were the ultimate in elegance down to the last detail and he "promoted them" in New York and elsewhere with his well-tested flair for publicity. He published a 27 page booklet praising Poughkeepsie as "The Residence City of America." It was entitled "Where to Live and the House to Live In," with superlatives sparkling on every page. Some of the "modern" attractions of the houses were: Dr. Nichol's patent furnace, a bathroom, a billiard room, a tank room, a wine room.

There was a linen closet, a dumb waiter, hot and cold water, gas for light and "Foster's Pneumatic Bells" which, he assured his prospective buyers,were"a late and most meritorious invention." He promised "hallowed memories of history and purity of atmosphere" but for once, his selling techniques failed.

Heavily in debt, he was forced to unload the houses.

He advertised a great auction to be held June 28, 1873, but the best price bid was only $60,000 and they had cost him $150,000 so he stopped the auction. Somewhat later he sold them for $90,000 taking the loss.

But that same year he had the pleasure of turning over the first spadeful of earth for the new bridge, amidst joyous celebrations. Misfortune followed when the third pier that was built collapsed into the river. The company building the bridge went bankrupt and for nine years those piers stood mockingly in the river, a source of derision to those 73

who had put up the money for them - and especially to H. G. himself who had poured out so much energy and used his considerable powers of persuasion to get the bridge started.

It was called "Eastman's Monument" and "Eastman's Folly."

New capital was raised and the work on the bridge resumed, but it was not completed until 1888, 10 years after Eastman's death. Although it was considered to be an engineering miracle and was called "The Ninth Wonder of the World" it never brought the direct benefits to Poughkeepsie that H. G. had envisioned.

His dreams of the future extended far beyond the borders of the city. In 1877 he became absorbed in the potential for development of the practically undiscovered state of Florida.

After a visit there he began promoting the idea of "colonizing" the state, calling attention to the tropical climate, the remarkable beauty and productivity of the land and inviting all and sundry to join him in creating new settlements there.

He publicly disagreed with his long-time friend, Horace Greeley, who became famous for his advice, "Go West, young man, go West," and warned that any who followed that course would either die en route in the prairies and deserts or would freeze to death after they got there, whereas, if they went south to Florida, they would find warmth, ease and comfort.

Alas! Before he could follow through on this enticing new project, he was overtaken by illness - tuberculosis. In May, 1878, he quietly left for Arkansas Hot Springs to try to regain his health and there he improved so much that he decided to go to Denver to complete his recuperation.

As we have noted, his private life, in contrast to his public one, remains almost a complete mystery. Among all the columns of newsprint and the many accounts of his successes and triumphs, including a few failures, little can be found about his family. We know that he married Minerva Clark of Canastota, New York, that they had three little girls, one of whom was Minnie Clark Eastman born July, 1872, and died April, 1873. She is the only one of the children buried in the family plot in the Rural Cemetery. The other two were Cora and Lottie. We know that Mrs. Eastman helped with the "College" in many varied capacities and that she often entertained the visiting dignitaries and lecturers that H. G. invited to come to speak to his students - and to any and all who wished to avail themselves of these opportunities. The Lyceum and later the Vassar Institute lectures may well have had their roots in Eastman's ability to attract outstanding personages to speak in Poughkeepsie.

After reaching Denver, Eastman asked his wife and daughter Lottie to join him, evidently anticipating a pleasant vacation interlude, but unfortunately he contracted pneumonia and died on July 13, 1878.

The sad news came quickly to Poughkeepsie via telegraph and although headlines had not yet come into use, the July 14th edition of the Daily Eagle said: DEATH OF MAYOR EASTMAN City Shrouded in Gloom "The shock which the city sustained when the news arrived had its parallel only in war times when news of some terrible defeat of the Union forces was received. When the news came, it spread like wild-fire.

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"All flags were flown at half-mast, the city hall was draped in mourning and even little children who knew him so well, wore sad countenances and talked with each other about his death."

By the time the sorrowing party arrived on Thursday, July 18th, every public building and many homes were draped.

All the stores were closed and the sidewalks from Main Street down to Eastman Place were crowded with people in spite of intense heat. The road was filled with carriages ready to form the funeral procession to the cemetery. Poughkeepsie truly mourned its popular leader and benefactor in a way not shown before - or since.

In spite of the fact that it was all too common for people to die in their 30's or 40's, H.G. had always been "bursting with energy and strength," and no one thought him to be vulnerable to the usual human weaknesses. Poughkeepsie had indeed suffered a severe loss. He had recently been re-elected for a third term as mayor and one newspaper compared his death to that of President Lincoln's in its impact upon the community.

Ezra White, whose wife was Mrs. Eastman's sister, had been a teacher in the College and had gradually become assistant to H. G. He continued to operate the school, but the spark was gone. No longer were there the spectacular advertizing schemes, but sheer momentum and wide recognition of the value of the training received there, continued to attract students to Poughkeepsie.

In 1884, Mrs. Eastman married Clement Gaines, a professor 20 years her junior and she turned the school over completely to him. They lived in the "Eastman Mansion" until her death in 1907. Professor Gaines also became principal of the Riverview Military Academy which was located in what is now called "Lincoln Park" and when that school was closed, he gave the land to the city in memory of Harvey Eastman.

Eastman Park was purchased by the city in 1909, and in 1969 the Y.M.C.A. was built in it. With H. G.'s lifetime interest in boys, he undoubtedly would have approved such a use of part of his Park.

Mr. Gaines opened a branch of "Eastman Business College" in New York and that outlasted the original school by many years. In 1928, a local business man, John B. Marian, bought the Poughkeepsie college and spent thousands of dollars in an attempt to revitalize it, but it was too late. By that time colleges and universities throughout the country were including business courses and full business schools in their curricula.

In his book, "Blithe Dutchess," Dr. Henry Noble MacCracken recounts a delightful story connected with Mr. Marian's purchase of the College. When John Marian was a young man, he used to deliver ice there, and one day when he was tugging a heavy block of it up the stairs, some of the students began shoving him and teasing him to a point where he lost hold of the ice and it skidded down to the bottom of the long flight.

He had to get a fresh hold with the tongs and drag it up the stairs. He vowed that someday he would own "Eastman College" and he made good his vow although it proved to be a very expensive, futile purchase. The school was closed in 1933 and the building was demolished in 1941. Today the new Washington Street passes over the site.

75

After the lapse of enough time for the shattering grief over Eastman's death to dim somewhat, his critics began to speak in louder tones. They pointed out that while he was Mayor in 1873 his extensive city improvements had put it deeply in debt. In the space of a couple of years many streets were paved, miles of sidewalks laid, extra street lighting installed, the City Railroad (horse-cars) extended, the new water-filtration plant built and water and sewer pipes laid throughout the city. All this had brought about a situation where the total assessed value was $3,000,000 and the indebtedness $2,000,000. (In 1977 the assessed valuation was $205 million, the indebtedness was $12.5 million only 6% compared with 1873's 66%.)

The city's financial condition was so serious that the police department was abolished, all the street lights were turned off and a new Charter was adopted, one which would put stringent controls on each department thereafter. Until then each had been a law unto itself, free to incur debts and issue bonds at will. Eastman's partisans were quick to point out that it was not entirely the Mayor's fault that all this had happened, but everyone knew that his ideas and his persuasive enthusiasm had led the city down such a delightful garden path. It was 25 years before any other improvements could be undertaken.

Who can ever know what plans and dreams were still unrealized? One was a "Ladies' Department" in his college.

Back in 1866 he had opened one, again with a single student, but it failed to appeal to the women of that era - another evidence of his being "50 years ahead of his time." From about 1910 on, increasing numbers of women attended and two graduates, Miss Alice Wood and Mrs. Virginia Purinton conducted a successful secretarial school here for many years.

H. G.'s years in Poughkeepsie had been relatively few less than 19. He died just before his 46th birthday. But he left his cherished, adopted city a priceless legacy, both physical and spiritual. By the time the college closed, it had graduated nearly 100,000 trained accountants and administrators, many of whom, such as S. S. Kresge, became business pioneers and leaders. For that reason H. G. deserves a special place in the annals of U. S. history. But here in Poughkeepsie we still have the Park, the Memorial Fountain, the Eastman Terrace Houses, the 1962 successor to his water plant and the Railroad Bridge - which, even though it is currently in a sad state of disrepair, has the potential for a useful future. It is scheduled to be placed on the National Register of Historic places along with 11 other buildings and districts.

Strange to say, Harvey Eastman died leaving many personal debts (all of which Mr. Gaines managed to pay off eventually), but if he could have lived a few more years perhaps it would have been a different story, although, knowing him as we do, perhaps his dreams might have led him even more deeply into debt - in Florida, for instance?

Standing before his huge granite monument in the cemetery, knowing something of his life and times, one feels a sense of admiration tinged with awe. The only ornamentation on the monument is a large, copper bas-relief of his famous profile and the lettersEASTMAN. On his headstone are

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his last words, "I have tried so to live as to do no man an injustice."

So, how does the artist attempt to complete the painting of Harvey Gridley Eastman? He is a paradox, a mixture of so many qualities; he could be portrayed as a juggler keeping many balls in the air simultaneously; or as a showman attracting people's attention and participation in whatever project he was promoting at any given time. And underneath all of this he had great depth of character and a never-flagging concern for his fellow-men - and how can any painting depict all of these qualities? On further consideration, perhaps only a motion-picture could possibly convey the energy and the magnetism of the man.

It is not at all difficult to imagine Harvey Eastman striding around Poughkeepsie today, taking a leading part in all the renewal and renovation (even the replacement of "his" water pipes). Perhaps it is in this re-birth of the city that his spirit most surely prevails!

77

THE TWO-SHILLING DOCTOR: A LEGEND AND AN ACCOUNT BOOK

By Radford B. Curdy Occasionally one encounters a mortal of a very strange cast who, for lack of better understanding, is perceived by others as being "peculiar." It was, alas, around just such an individual that sprang one of the oddest tales ever to be heard in the quiet countryside of Dutchess County.

New Hackensack, known in historical annals chiefly for its ancient Dutch church, was in early days a sleepy hamlet, not much disposed to notoriety. The meandering Wappingers, a geographical feature of immense importance, flowed close by and its high banks had been chosen by the early settlers for their homesteads.

It was here, not far from the creek and close by the church, that there lived a physician, known among his patients as the "Two-shilling Doctor." A familiar sight was he indeed, as he rode through the countryside calling on the sick; his single volume medical library in one pocket, his bleeder in the other. Protruding from his saddle bag, rarely parted from his person, was a great long leather bound volume - a meticulously kept, closely penned account book.

There was a deep strangeness about him, perhaps reflecting the fearful torment within. To his neighbors the water ran turbulent and deep - they had all heard, and some had even been witness to the curse and the tragedy surrounding Dr. Stephen Thorn.

Dr. Thorn came of a very respectable Long Island family, one which for generations had been a pillar of Flushing Quakerism. Records relating to his early life seem to have vanished, but it is known he was born about 1737, probably at White Plains, to which community his father Samuel had removed on his trek north, which ended with a new life in Rombout Precinct, Dutchess County. It appears that Dr. Thorn was already well established when his father died in 1759 and he was a practicing physician in 1762 when he married Mrs. Elizabeth Hicks. Whether he attended a medical school or studied with an established physician has never been determined. In 1772 he built a large brick home close by the New Hackensack Church and here raised a family of six children.

Dr. Thorn's early professional life seems to have been uneventful, marked only by an occasional problem in collecting a bill. But deep trouble marked most of his life and it began four short years after moving into his new home. The Revolution brought soul searching for many Dutchess County residents and some found themselves with no choice but to cling to their loyalty to George III. Among that group were the children of Samuel Thorn.

In 1775, Dr. Thorn, and his brothers Jonathan, Robert and John all refused to sign the Articles of Association. On October 17, 1776, Dr. Thorn and his brothers Robert and Jonathan were arrested for their loyalist sympathies and sent off to Exeter, New Hampshire. On March 7, 1777, Dr. Thorn and his brother Jonathan were allowed to return, owing to their having "behaved peaceable and not spoken against the American cause." Both Jonathan and Robert continued manifestly opposed to the whig cause, but Dr. Thorn had apparently become less inclined to support the Tories. Jonathan in May was 78

sent to the prison fleet at Esopus, but Dr. Thorn was ordered simply to be confined at the Everett house in Poughkeepsie. Jonathan was subsequently imprisoned again at Hartford, Connecticut, where he died on November 14, 1777. Dr. Thorn however, reconsidered his previous outspoken sympathies, and on June 17, 1777 changed his allegiance and took the oath.

Although discharged by the Committee for Detection of Conspiracies, Thorn's practice had suffered disasterously from his loyalist stand, and it took him two to three years to rebuild confidence in his person and regain the friendship of those who had been his patients before the war; many of whom were among the leading whigs. His practice did flourish and he amassed considerable wealth. His name is encountered frequently in Dutchess County records as a witness to a mortgage or deed or a will and sometimes as an executor of a will.

His gravest troubles, those which were to plague him until his death, began not long after the hatreds of the Revolution had died down. Authorities seem at odds as to whether it began in 1786 or 1789, but all agree it commenced when a cobbler stopped at the Thorn home. In subsequent generations the family preferred to forget what had happened and that it came near driving Dr. Thorn insane, but when asked they would invariably recount the story in the same manner word for word as if it had been memorized. Dr. Thorn's great-great-granddaughter put it thus: "One day there was a travelling cobbler at the house of Dr. Thorn. He tried to kiss the pretty maid. She slapped his face with her dishcloth. He said: 'You shall suffer for this!' Then he went away. And soon strange noises followed the girl wherever she went. There were rappings on the floor. Tables and chairs were overturned. The girl was said to be bewitched. People came from far and near to see and hear what happened. It was very disagreeable for the family.

They sent a messenger to try and find the cobbler. He was traced to Hudson, New York, and found in an orchard. He admitted he had caused the disturbance. He was plead with to end it and he said: 'When a large stone that is in the attic rolls down stairs and out of doors with a great noise the trouble will cease.' One day a big stone in the attic did roll down stairs and out of doors and then they had no more trouble. And the stone was in the attic after that. And the publicity that attended the family was so unpleasant they had to go away from the home for a while."

There are many versions of the curse and ensuing events.

In some the servant girl was called a tailoress; in others the cobbler was omitted entirely. One story referred to him as "humpbacked" and that he was angry not because of the kiss, but because she laughed at him. In the early part of this century an old New Hackensack resident spoke of furniture moving about and lumber in the cellar of the Thorn house flying about. He added: "The New York Legislature made an investigation. To cure her, they carried her across the river and kept carrying her until the evil spirit left her. The big stone which belonged to the cobbler is still to be seen in the garret of the house and if thrown out of the window, will mysteriously return to the garret and be found there the next time it is

79

looked for and when there is a thunderstorm the ghost of the tailoress runs around on the baseboard of the double parlors."

One source referred to the girl as being fourteen, and described the noises as "knockings" which were described in the New York Daily Advertiser of February 27, 1789 as "somewhat resembling the noise attending a shoemaker's hammering on the heel of a shoe." The New York Packet of March 10, 1789, printed a letter from "a gentleman at Fishkill," which related three different visits with Dr. Thorn. Speaking of the last, the letter writer stated: "The knocking still continued but was much louder," during the second visit, but during the third visit the "phenomena were still more alarming. I then saw the chairs move; a large dining table was thrown against me and a small stand, on which stood a candle, was tossed up and thrown in my wife's lap, after which we left the house much surprised at what we had seen."

The curious were said to have come from as far away as Philadelphia and New England and learned men were at a loss to solve the problem. Instead of improving, the situation grew worse. Knives and forks would fly from the girl's hands when she tried to eat and furniture would overturn at her touch. Dr. Thorn found some relief when a neighbor volunteered to take the girl in his own house for a time and this person supposedly was able to give her relief from the knockings by placing his hand on her forehead. She finally went to live with a relative and though the knockings were said to have followed, they are said to have become less frequent. The cobbler's stone supposedly still exists, although today Dr. Thorn's house is gone.

Dr. Thorn did not long survive the episode with the cobbler. He died on October 16, 1795 and lies buried in the Dutch churchyard adjacent to the New Hackensack Church. Mystery, oddness and even calamity however, seemed to follow his progeny.

The doctor's great grandnephew was Lieut. Jonathan Thorn, U.S.N., who had served with distinction during the Tripolian War. In 1811 he was sent to the Columbia River in command of the bark "Tonquin," fitted out by John Jacob Astor for an exploration in anticipation of establishing trading settlements.

In June of 1811, Thorn, then promoted to Captain, became embroiled in what was later called a "nonsensical" squabble with Indians over a minor trade involving skins. Thorn and his crew, including his brother James Thorn, were murdered by the Indians.

Dr. Thorn's eldest son was also a physician, Dr. James Thorn. This son took over the father's practice and was widely esteemed in the neighborhood. It was noted at the time of his death, June 26, 1816 that: "The best families were represented and the bearers were leading men socially and profressionally. They were so drunk that the burial had to be delayed two hours for them to sober up sufficiently to be able to carry the body from the house."

Some 50 years later, Dr. Thorn's grandson, Robert Thorn, who lived in the house at the intersection of Route 376 and Maloney Road, which had been built by Dr. Thorn's son Samuel, died under mysterious circumstances. Robert Thorn died on January 19, 1870 and according to the Poughkeepsie Daily Eagle of January 22, 1870, he was murdered: 80

"Robert Thorn was a quiet man and did not wish personal affairs brought before public. This was known to the band of robbers by whom he had been plundered several times and finally murdered. Three scoundrels were involved and the housekeeper is thought to be involved. He is said to have been worth $150,000. It is said his son-in-law Richard Akin figured in a defalcation in New York City and had fled and that he had previously robbed Mr. Thorn of $6,500. He is said to have been seen around Poughkeepsie just before the last attack and to have then disappeared."

The papers then fell strangely silent on the mysterious attack except to note that it had occurred on January 5 and that Thorn had been "beaten and gagged." It was noted that Thorn refused to "disclose the particulars of the attack" which was described as "without parallel in Dutchess County history."

One reason might have been the possible involvement of the husband of his only child, Caroline.

Among the relics associated with Dr. Thorn which are known to exist, is his 344-page, closely penned account book which surfaced recently in a collection of Dutchess County historical materials. This large leather volume contains entries dated from 1775 to 1795, relating to over 500 patients.

Although Dr. Thorn traditionally is said to have offered but three remedies, "a puke, a purge or a bleed," the accounts clearly display ample evidence that his abilities reached much further. He mentions dressing wounds, extracting teeth, and delivering children. He treated a frozen foot and was called upon to relieve worms in children. What he referred to as "cancer" was treated on several occasions and he seems to have been proficient at setting all types of bone fractures and dislocations. Among the maladies he observed were "leephrosy," venereal disease, ulcerations, fevers and tumors.

The medicines utilized show he was well versed in 18th century practices and, to use his spellings, included: "camphor, sulphur, castor, tartar cream, callomel, red barck, nitriol, powders, pills, gum mynah, licorice, salts, volat spirits, ointments, mouthwaters, plasters, bitters, magnashe, adquintum, juniper oil, and liquid ladum." He also mentions "brimstone for salavating, borax, colleriam, breast oyntment, pergorche, and ear medicine."

The record shows that whatever the ailment, Dr. Thorn's charge indeed was two shillings per complaint, per visit. On some occasions however, he did accept "fish, grain, sheep and lambs" in payment for his services. The most important feature of the account book lies in that owing to the size of his practice and Dr. Thorn's manner of entering accounts, the book represents a sort of post-Revolutionary census of central Dutchess County; in some instances complete with valuable background information. The appended list is a complete index to the volume. The name of the patient is first given, followed by the name as spelled in the record where it deviates, obviously due to phonetics. This is then followed by the years a person was a patient, the place of residence where given or known, and then, any additional data known or quoted from the account.

81

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82

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Stairway in the home of Dr. Stephen Thorn from an old photo. It was down this stairway that reputedly rolled the stone which supposedly ended the curse imposed by a wandering cobbler on a servant girl.

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Gravestone of Dr. Stephen Thorn in the old Churchyard of the New Hackensack Church.

Dr. Thorn died October 16, 1795.

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Ackerman, Casparus, (Caspardos Ockerman), 1788, of Poughkeepsie.

-David, (Ockerman), 1787, of Poughkeepsie, had "son David."

-Gulian, (Corline Ockerman), 1786-1791, of Barnegat, had a slave.

-Jacobus, (Cobus Ockerman), 1792, of Barnegat.

Adams, Abel, 1784-1788, of Marlboroughtown.

-Elisha, 1785-1786, of Rombout.

Akins, Stephen, see John Mott.

Aldrich, Peter, (Peter Aldres), of Newburgh, 1792, "over the river."

Ames, David, 1791, of Fishkill, "delivered wife."

-George, (George Eames), 1783, of Barnegat.

Anderson, David, 1785, probably Beekman, "employed by James Scoot."

Annan, Daniel, (Danel Annen), 1785-1795, of Fishkill, "Betsy Downing."

-James, (Annon), 1776, 1785-1793, of Barnegat, a cooper, "John," (a son?).

Applebee, Conrad, (Cunerod Aplebee), 1782, of Fishkill.

-Gilbert, (Appelbee), 1790-1791, of Fishkill, "employed

by John Jackson."

Avery, Polly, (Polle Every), n.d. (c 1783), of Fishkill.

Baker, Jacob, (Jacob Backer), 1790, of Fishkill.

Bancker, Stephen, 1783, of Fishkill.

Barber, Moses, 1784, of Fishkill, believed moved to Stillwater, c 1790.

Barnes, Gilbert, 1776, of Fishkill.

-Richard, 1791, of Fishill.

Beadle, Daniel, (Daniel Beadel), 1776, of Beekman.

-Jesse, n.d. c 1785, of Beekman, "wife's sister employ'd Wornin, shoemaker."

Bell, Henry, n.d. c 1785, of Fishkill.

-John, 1785, of Fishkill.

Bennett, James, (James Bennot), 1788, of Fishkill.

Bents (?), Thomas, 1790.

Bergen, John, (John Bagn), 1793, of Fishkill.

Billings, Major Andrew, (Mgar Billings), 1792, of Poughkeepsie.

Bishop, Gabriel, (Gabril Biship), 1790, of Fishkill.

-Joshua, (Biship), 1790, of Fishkill or Cortlandt-town?

Bloodgood, Joseph, (Bludgood), 1788-1789, of Fishkill, "fractured arm."

-Robert, (Bludgood), 1790, of Fishkill.

Bloom, Benjamin, 1782-1785, 1790, of Fishkill, "dressing finger."

-George, n.d. c 1783, of Fishkill, see Underhill Budd.

-Sylvester, 1775, 1783-1786, of Fishkill, "Richard Cornell," (employee?)

Bockee, William, (Bockes), 1786, of Rombout, "for Rowlin Emrey;" Bockee had "son Adam."

Bogardus, Cornelius, (Cornelus Bargardus), 1786-1788, of Fishkill.

-Francis, (Bargadus), 1782-1793, of Fishkill, mentions "Drakes and Cornalls."

Bogart, Henry, 1783, "young man," "ulcer," "leg fracture."

-James, 1790, of Fishkill, son-in-law of William Van Amburgh.

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Bool (?), John, 1783, "employed by Isaac Veal."

Bount, Thomas, 1788, son-in-law of "Cobus Steenbarck."

Bouton, , 1790, "Mr. Bouton over the river," (Joseph Bouton, Cornwall?).

Bragaw, John, (John Beggaw), 1792, "son of Jacob."

-Peter, (Peter Begaw or Bugoe), 1790-1792, mentions "Dorance Plase."

Bremer, John, 1776, of Barnegat.

Briggs, John, (John Brigs), 1791, of Beekman.

Brinckerhoff, Col. Abraham, (Connell Abraham Brinkerhoff), 1791, of Fishkill.

-Adrian, (Eddaryon Brinkerhoff), 1783, of Fishkill.

-George, (see John Lane).

-Mrs. Sarah, (Widow Sary Brinkerhoff), 1787, of Fishkill.

Brisbee, James, 1783.

Brooks, Elizabeth, 1784-1786, of Fishkill.

-William, (William Brucks), n.d., c 1785, of Fishkill.

Brouwer, Cornelius, (Cornlus Brower), 1791, of Fishkill, "salvating daughter."

-David, (David Brower), 1791, of Fishkill.

-Jacob, Sr., (Old Jacob Brower), 1788, of Fishkill.

-Jacob, Jr., (Jacob Brower son of Jacob Brower), 1788, of Fishkill.

Brown, John, 1776, 1783, "over the river," (location not identified), "delivered wife."

Buck, Andries, 1787, of Beekman.

Buckhout, Mrs. John, (Widow Buckhout), 1791, of Fishkill, wife of late John Buckhout.

Budd, Underhill, (Undrell Budd), 1784-1786, 1791, of Town of Poughkeepsie, "on George Bloom's farm."

Burnet, Thomas, 1776, of New Windsor. , (Bursa a Frenchman), n.d. , c 1787, "employed Bursa,

by James Elderkin."

Burtis, Barent, 1785, of Rombout, "delivered wife."

(Aaron?), (Old Mr. Busson), 1783, of Rombout, Bussing, (probably Aaron Bussing, a New York refugee), "Hyer, shoemaker, his son-in-law," (who was probably of Poughkeepsie).

Buys, Henry, (Henry Byse), 1788, of Fishkill, "a mason by trade," "cancer in wife," "broken arm."

Cain, Philip, n.d., c 1783, of Charlotte, "taking out cancer.

Canniff, Daniel, (Daniel Cannof), 1788-1789, of Fishkill.

Carrs, John, (John Cars), 1791.

-Philip, (Philip Cars), 1788, "employed by Samuel Cars."

-Samuel, see Philip Carrs.

-Thomas, (Thomas Cars), 1783-1784, "Over the river."

Case, Rev. Wheeler, (Mr. Case, Menester), 1790, (Minister of Pleasant Valley Presbyterian Church).

Casebee, Peggy, (Pegga Casebee), 1792, of Rombout, "employed

by Benj. Roe, Jr." Catton, Betts, (Bits Catton), 1792.

Chatterton, Betts, (Bets Chaterton), 1786-1789, 1791, of Fishkill.

-Peter, 1775, 1787.

-William, 1786-1787.

Christie, Dennis, see Spencer, Churchill, , 1783, of Fishkill.

-Edward, (Edward Churchel), 1789, of Middlebush, (a pipemaker).

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-John, Sr., (John Churchwell), 1775-1776, 1784-1789, 1793, of Middlebush, "a carpenter," "Widow Wilse at -John Churchels, 1783."

-John, Jr., (John Churchel), 1784-1788, "John Churchel son of John," "at Middlebush."

-Jonas, 1783, of Fishkill.

Clapp, Benjamin, Jr., (Benjamin Clap younger), 1782-1783, of Fishkill.

Clapp, Henry, see Silas Clapp.

-Silas, (Silas Claap), 1790-1791, of Fishkill, "son of Henry Clap."

Clark, Noah, see John McBride.

-Samuel, 1785, of Fishkill, "a carpenter."

Coe, John, (John Goe), 1785-1786, of Rombout, living "near Capt. Tyse Lesters," (Capt. Matthias Luyster).

Coffin, John, 1787, of Rombout.

Cole, Isaac, see Jacob Ferris.

Collins, Joshua, (Joshua Colins), 1787, of "Oswego," see Stephen Gales.

Compton, James, (James Comtin), 1783-1784, "daughter Jane," "Nelle," (relationship unknown).

Concklin, Lawrence, (Larance Conklin), 1783-1784, of Fishkill, "a weaver."

-Matthew, (Mathewe Conklin), 1788.

-William, (William Conklin), 1783.

Conover, Benjamin, 1791, of Fishkill.

-Peter, 1790, of Fishkill. , (Mr. Cook the Minister), 1789.

Cook, Rev. -Matthew, see John Cooke.

Cooke, John, 1775, 1782-1784, 1786-1789, 1790-1792, of Rombout, (lived at New Hackensack), "his negro boy," "Jack," (relationship unknown), "Mrs. Cooke," "son -Matthias Cooke," "merchant," "delivering negro wench."

Cool, Minard, (Mynard Cooles), 1783-1786, (of Oswego?).

Cooper, Obediah, (Obediah Cupper), 1785, of Middlebush, "sonin-law to Tuna Van Benscoten."

-Philip, (Philip Cuper), 1783, of Poughkeepsie.

Copeman, Jacob, (Jacob Copman), 1782-1783, of Poughkeepsie, (had children).

Cornell, , see Francis Bogardus.

-Benjamin, (Ben Cornel), 1790-1791, of Rombout, "cupper by trade," "dressing thumb."

-Benjamin, (Benjam Cornel), 1791, of Rombout, (perhaps same as preceeding?), "son of Clement," "at Hick's."

-Clement, 1775, 1786-1793, of Rombout, "at John Hoffs."

-John, (John Curnell), 1783-1788, of Rombout, "negro Daniel," "Sapir the negro," "delivering wench," "Squire a negro at John Curnell."

-Peter, (Piter Curnell), n.d., c 1789, 1790-1791, of Rombout, "on Van Kleecks," "cancer in wife."

-Richard, see Sylvester Bloom.

Cramer, , (Old Mr. Cramer), n.d., c 1785, of Middlebush, "employed by Henry Cramer."

-Henry, see Cramer.

Crandell, Samuel, (Samuel Crandel), 1783-1789, of Oswego, "weaver of coverlid."

Crawford, Henry, (Henry Crawfoot), 1785, of Barnegat, "at John Sheffields."

Cronk, Abraham, 1775, of Fishkill. , (Probably James Culver, the Cooper), (Mr. Culver, Culver, 1775-1776, of Fishkill.

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Dates, John, 1788, of Rombout, see "Widow Andreas Lossing."

-John, Jr., (Young John Dates), 1792, of Rombout, "shumaker," (perhaps same as preceeding and perhaps not a junior).

-Peter, 1787-1788, of Rombout, see Michael Gulneck and Abraham Lent.

Dayton, Cornbury, (Cornbury Datin), 1783.

Dean, Daniel, (Danel Deen), 1786, of Oswego.

-Evans, (Evins Deen), 1785-1787, of Rombout, "Solomon," "Betsy," (relationships unknown), see Layton -Jonathan, (Jonathan Deean), 1784, 1790, "at Castons place."

-Robert, (Robert Deen), 1785-1788, of Rombout, "brother of Evans Deen."

Decker, Barent, (Barnt Decker), 1791-1792, "had son David."

DeDuyster, Abraham, (Abraham Dudheer), 1790, of Fishkill.

-Barent, (Barnt Dutcher), 1783, 1788, 1791-1792, of Fishkill.

-David, (David Dutcher), 1785, of Fishkill.

-Sarah, (Sary Dutcher), 1785, of Fishkill, "employed by Gidon DuBoys."

DeGroff, Gideon, (Gidon Degrove), 1791, of Rombout.

-James, (James Degrove), 1788, of Rombout, "son to Jacobus Degrove."

-Moses, Jr., (Moses Degrove the younger), 1789, 1791, of Rombout, "delivering his wife."

-Simon, (Simon Degrove), 1783-1784, of Rombout.

DeLange, Conrad, (Conrad Delong), 1776.

-John, (John Delong), 1786-1788, of Fishkill, "son of Aaron Delong?"

DeMilt, Garret, 1783-1785, 1789, of Fishkill.

-Isaac, (Isaac Demelt), 1775, of Fishkill.

-John, (John DeMeth), 1776, of Fishkill, "cansor on the thumb."

DeOude, Daniel, (Old Mr. Daniel Dauida), 1789.

Dennis, John, (John Denis), 1785, of Rombout, "employed by William Fun Tyne."

DePue, Peter, 1781-1786, 1789-1792, of Fishkill, "delivering wife."

Devine, Asher, 1789, of Fishkill, "near Jacobs."

DeWee, Isaac, 1790, of Fishkill.

Dingee, Mark, (Marck Dimsee), 1785-1786.

-Thomas, (Thomas Dimsee), 1783.

Dodge, Henry, 1783, of Poughkeepsie.

Dollson, George, (Gordge Dolson), 1785-1787, of Poughkeepsie or Fishkill, "employed by Simon Lawsons son Simon."

Dorland, Samuel, (Samuel Durlin, Dorlan), 1775-1776, 1785, of Fishkill.

Downing, Betsy, see Daniel Annan.

-Sary Betsy, 1791.

Drake, , see Francis Bogardus.

DuBois, Gideon, see Sarah DeDuyster.

-Hannis, (Hannos DuBoys), 1782-1786, of Rombout, his "son James," "John," (relationship unknown).

-Jacob, (Jacob DuBoys), 1775, 1783-1787, 1790-1791, of Fishkill, his "son John," "Peter," (relationship unknown) "John Deyos son," (son-in-law?).

-Johannis, (Johannis DuBoys), 1784-1785, of Fishkill.

88

- John, (John DuBoys), 1789, 1791, of Fishkill, "John DuBoys son of John," his "son Lewis Dubys."

-Colonel Lewis, (Luis DuBoys), 1775, 1783-1789, of Poughkeepsie, "his wife," "his negro boy."

-Nathaniel, (Nathaniel DuBoys), 1785, of Fishkill.

-Teunis, (Tunis DuBoys), 1792, of Fishkill, "his negro."

-Thomas, (Thomas DuBoys), 1786, of Fishkill, his "son John."

Dumond, Henry, (Henry Dimon), 1785-1793, "paid him 10 s. and six pens."

-Matthew, (Mathew Dumon), 1793.

Dunscomb, , (possibly Edward Dunscomb a New York Revolutionary War officer), (Old Mr. Danscom), 1783.

Durling, James, (James Dearling), 1788, of Fishkill.

Duryea, , (Widow Durhe), 1791, of Rombout.

Edwards, William, 1775, of Fishkill.

Egars, Philip, 1792.

Elderkin, James, see Bursa.

Elsworth, John, (John Elwourth), 1783, "cure his negro man."

-Samuel, n.d., c 1783.

Emigh, George, (Geordge Emough), 1787, of Beekman.

Emory, Rowland, see William Bockee.

Erct, Benjamin, 1792, "on Hogaland place."

Everitt, Benjamin, (Benjaman Everet), 1791-1792, of Fishkill, "Betsy Pattin," "Aaron," (relationship unknown.)

Everson, John, (John Evensen), 1787-1791, of Fishkill, "a merchant."

Ferdon, Abraham, (Abraham Furdon), 1780-1789, 1791.

-Jacob, (Jacob Furdun), 1784-1786, 1790.

-John, Jr., (Young John Furdon), 1785, "young John son to John Furdon."

-Mrs. John, (Widow John Furdon), 1791.

-Peter, (Peter Forden), 1789, "Peter Forden son of Z. Forden."

-Zacharia, (Zeachre Furdon), 1775, 1783-1789, "Purdys wife," his negro boy."

-Mrs. Zacharia, (Widow Zache Furdon), 1791, "employed by her son John."

Ferris, Jacob, 1783, "son-in-law of Isaac Cole."

Fillow, Peter, 1775-1776.

Fish, Robert, 1783, of Fishkill, "son-in-law to Jeremiah Jones."

Fisher, , (Mrs. Fisher), 1784, "daughter to Lasher."

Flagler, David, (David Flagalar), 1788-1789.

-Paul, (Paulus Flagalar), 1788.

Fort, Abraham, (Abraham Foort), 1788-1790, of Poughkeepsie, "negro slave" treated, Mr. Fort treated for "opening a tumor in his leg" and treated for a year, 1789-1790.

-John, (John Foort), 1786, of Poughkeepsie.

Fowler, John, (John Fowlor), 1790.

-Sollen, see Martin, ▪ of Poughkeepsie, "son of Frear, John, (John Fraer), 1793, Simon Fraer."

Freeman, Anthony, (Anthony Freeman), n.d.

Furgeson, Stephen, (Stephen Furgoson), 1783, "his sons wife."

Gales, Stephen, (Stephen Geales) , 1787, of Oswego, "employed

by Joshua Collins."

Ganse, Casper, (Caspor Gance), 1783-1786, 1791, of Fishkill, "a currier."

89

Germond, James, (James Garman), 1788, of Nine Partner, "father to Peter Garman."

-John, (John Garman), 1787, of "the Hollow in Nine Partners."

-Peter, (Piter Garman), 1783, of Nine Partners, "his son James," paid with three crowns," (large silver dollar size coins.)

Gidley, Henry, (Henry Gidlee), 1787-1788, of Oswego.

-Jasper ?, (Master Gidle), 1785, of Fishkill, "son-inlaw of John Guill."

Giles, William, (William Gyls), 1787, of Fishkill, "a carpenter."

-Mrs. William, 1790, of Fishkill.

Graham, Commissioner Daniel ?,(Mr. Graham at Colonel Van Bunscotens),1790, Poughkeepsie.

-Duncan, (Dunkin Graham), 1780-1783, of Poughkeepsie, "lip cancer," "fractured arm," see Roger Roe. Green, Isreal, (Ozrial Green), 1784, of Rombout.

-Joseph, 1783, of Fishkill, "son-in-law of Furdon."

Griffin, Col. Jacob, (Jacob Griffen, Connell), 1786-1790, 1792, of Fishkill, "Nestor, negro boy," "his son Richard Griffen,""lancing wife's breast."

-John, (John Griffen), 1789-1793, "his son Richard."

Jonathan, 1790, of Nine Partners.

-Michael, (Mickall Griffen), 1782-1784, of Nine Partners, "son of Joseph Griffen."

-Obediah, 1788, 1792, of Nine Partners, "son Joseph."

Gulneck, Jacob, (Jacob Culneck), 1782, of Fishkill.

-Michael, (Mickel Gulneck), 1786-1793, of Rombout, "son-in-law of Peter Dates."

Hageman, Cornelius, (Cornalus Hagaman, Hagamin), 1784, 17871789, of Rombout.

-John, 1786, "from Long Island."

-Katy, 1790.

Haight, Capt. Cornelius, (Capt. Cornalus Haight), 1783, of Fishkill.

Hall, John, 1793, of Marlboro, "over the river."

-John, of Rombout, see Clement Cornell.

Halsted, Samuel, (Samuel Haltst), 1791, of Rombout.

Hamlin, , (Mr. Hamlin), 1785, "shoemaker at Joseph Jacksons."

Harris, Baltus, 1785, of Rombout.

-Capt. Joseph, 1782-1786, of Rombout, "his son Joseph."

-Peter, 1789, of Rombout.

Hart, William, n.d., c 1782.

Hathorn, Hon. John, (John Hatorn), 1775. , (Widow Harmensee), 1792, of Rombout.

Heermanse, -Andries, Sr., (Old Andreas Harmensee), 1786, of Rombout, "his negro boy."

-Andries, Jr., (Andries Harmansee, Jr.), 1775, 1782-1787, of Rombout, "James," (relationship unknown.)

-Andries P., (Andres P. Harmansee), 1790, of Rombout.

-Henry, (Henry Harmonsee), 1783-1789, 1791-1792, of Rombout, "his son Andres," "his son's widow."

-John, (John Harmonsee), 1782-1793, of Rombout.

Hicks, Gilbert, 1790-1791.

-Jacob, n.d., c 1783, of Rombout.

-James, (perhaps same as preceeding), 1789-1791, of Rombout, "his son Tim," "a weaver."

90

-William, 1786-1789, of Rombout, "his son James," "worms in his wife."

Hill, Zachariah, (Zachrea Hill), 1792-1793.

Hilleker, Henry, (Henry Heleker), 1779-1786, of Charlotte.

Hoff, Hannah, 1786, of Rombout, "daughter to Peter Hoff employed by Larance Hoff," "dressing and taking out dead flesh," "four months of dressing."

-John, 1783-1788, 1791, of Rombout, "Clement Cornwell."

-Joseph, 1789-1790, of Rombout.

-Joseph, Jr., (Joseph Hoff the younger), 1790, of Rombout.

-Lawrence, (Larance Hoff), 1775, 1782-1789, of Rombout, "his black chyld," "Joseph Hoff."

-Mrs. Peter, (Widow Peter Hoff), 1787-1790, of Rombout.

Hoffman, Isaac, (Isaac Huffman), 1789-1792, of Poughkeepsie, "delivered wife."

-Martin, 1785-1786, 1791-1792, of Poughkeepsie, "his son Robert, "his wench."

-Martin, Jr., (Young Marten Hufman), 1791, "his black chyld."

-Robert, 1788-1789, 1791, of Poughkeepsie, "his wench," "his negro man."

Honson, David, (David Honsee), 1788, 1790, of Rombout.

-John, (Old John Honsa), 1787-1790, of Rombout, "a miller," "his son Oart," "his daughter."

-Stephen, 1787, of Rombout.

Hooghboom, Peter, see Peter Kidney.

Hooghland, Abraham, (Abraham Hogeland), 1786, "his son Abraham."

-Dirck, (Derick Hogeland), 1775, 1785-1788, 1791-1792, of Rombout, "Caty Fowler," "Widow Montross," "Billy," "William," (relationships unknown.)

-William, (William Hogeland), 1783-1789, of Rombout, "Abrahams wife," "Sweet Jack," "Mathew Luyster settled his account," "his black chyld," "his son William."

Horton, Joseph, 1786, of Rombout.

-Matthias, (Mathane Horton), 1784-1786, of Rombout, -"Jackson," (relationship unknown.)

Hughson, Gabriel, (Gabreal Huson), 1786-1788, 1791, of Fishkill, "employed by Mr. Taler."

-James, (James Huson), 1786, of Fishkill, "employed

by John Huson."

-John, (John Huson), n.d., c 1789, of Fishkill, "son of Walter," see John Vail.

-John Walter, (John Walter Huson), n.d., c 1790, of Fishkill.

-Walter, (Walter Huson), 1790-1791, of Fishkill.

-William, (William Huson), 1787-1788, of Fishkill, "son of John Huson," Bolas his negro employed by John Walter Huson," "Cato."

Hyatt, Abraham, 1775, of Fishkill, see Nathan Hyatt.

-Nathan, 1775, 1783-1784, of Fishkill, "Abraham Hyatt."

Inger ?, Peter, n.d., c 1783, "wife employed Kandel."

Irish, Peggy, (Pegga Isrish), 1792.

-Samuel, 1783, "son of Smith."

Jack, (Negro Jack), 1783.

Jackson, Joseph, 1784-1789, 1791-1792, of Rombout, "venereal disease in his negro, "dressing wounds," "negro Sam," 91

"negro boy James," see Hamlin, Gilbert Applebee, and Stephen Townsend.

-Richard, 1784-1791, of Rombout, "negro man," "wench," "Joseph," " Samuel," (the last two probably of the Jackson family.)

-Samuel, 1790, of Rombout, "son of Richard," see Betsy McKenzie.

Jaycocks, Benjamin, 1775, 1783, 1789, of Barnegat, "his son Francis."

-Francis, (Francis Jacocks), 1786-1787, 1790, of Barnegat.

-Jonathan, 1776, of Barnegat.

-Kelly, (Cala Jacocks), 1789, of Barnegat.

-Thomas, Sr., 1785-1789, of Barnegat.

-Thomas, Jr., (Thomas Jacocks Younger), 1784, 1790, 1792, of Barnegat, "son of Thomas Jacocks," "Abraham his boy," "delivering his wife."

-Thomas P., 1792, of Barnegat.

-William, see Smith, Jewell, George, (George Guell), 1775, of Fishkill, see Gideon Townsend.

-Harmon, (Harmene Guel), 1784-1786, of Fishkill, "dislocated joint."

-Harmon, Jr., (Harmana Guel the younger), 1790-1791, 1793, of Rombout, "delivering wife."

-Henry, (Henry Juel), 1792, of Rombout.

-John, (John Jual and Guel), 1787-1788, 1790, of Fishkill, "son of Harmene," "his son Isaac," (see Jasper Gidley.)

-Richard, (Richard Jueal and Jawel), 1787, of Rombout.

Johnson, Jonathan, 1776, of Barnegat.

-Thomas, 1789, of Rombout, "at Dominicus Montforts."

Jones, Betsy, n.d., c 1787, 1791, of Rombout, "wife of Jeremiah Jones."

-David, n.d., c 1783.

-Jeremiah, see Betsy Jones and Robert Tist.

-Thomas, 1787, of Rombout, "son of Jeremiah."

Jranthuf, Samuel ?, 1790.

Keck, Abigail, 1790-1791.

Kelly, William, (William Keelee and Cala), n.d., c 1785, 1788-1789, of Oswego, "a cooper," "breast oyntment for wife," "brimstone for salavating wife."

Kennedy, Alshe, (Widow Alshe Caneday), n.d., c 1787.

Kidney, James, 1783.

-Peter, 1787, "wife daughter of Crandell," "employed by Peter Hogeboom."

Kipp, Bennone, (Bennone Keep), 1776.

-Elizabeth, (Widow Elizabeth Keep), 1782. , (Mr. Knap), 1784-1785, "employed by Capt.

Knapp, Scoot."

Kock, Jabe, n.d., c 1788.

La Due, Peter, 1776, "at Fishkill Hook."

Laight, William, 1789, of Fishkill.

Landers, Joseph, (Joseph Landors), 1786-1787, "served time with William Mosher."

Lane, John, 1787, of Rombout, "employed by Snedeker near George Brinckerhoff."

Langdon, John, 1776, of Rombout.

- Mrs. John, 1785, of Rombout, "at Dover."

-Thomas, (Thomas Landon), 1791.

92

Layton, , (Mr. Layton), 1790, of Rombout, "at Evans Deens.)

Lawrence, John, (John Larance), 1776, 1786-1789, of Rombout.

-Stephen, (Stephen Larance), 1784-1786, of Rombout.

-Thomas, (Thomas Larance), 1783, 1789, of Rombout.

Leet, Nathan, 1792.

Lennington, Hannah, (Hannah Lanenton), 1783, of Rombout.

Lent, Abraham, 1784-1788, 1790, "at Sprout Creek," "merchant, "at Peter Oates."

LeRoy, Frans, (Francis Laroe), 1786, of Rombout, "son of Simon."

-Frans, Jr. (Franc Lary), 1792, of Rombout, "son of France."

-John, (John Lare), 1787, of Rombout, "son of Simon Leroe."

-Michael, (Medich Laroe), 1791, of Rombout.

-Peter, (Peter Leroe), 1783, of Rombout.

-Simon, see Frans LeRoy, John LeRoy and Barnet Van Kleeck.

Lewis, Barent, (Barnt Lewis), 1775, of Rombout.

-Thomas, (Thomas Luis), 1789, of Poughkeepsie, "son of Lanard Luis," "lancing leg."

Linion, Larey, ?, (Larey Linion), 1783, "brikesmaker."

Livingston, Elizabeth, 1775.

-Henry G., (Henry G. Levnstone), 1783.

Lockwood, Stephen, 1784, 1790, of Rombout.

Losee, Aaron, (Aaron Losie), 1784.

-Abraham, see Chauncey Losee, John Losee.

-Chauncey, (Chansee Loosey), 1785-1789, of Rombout, "son of Abraham Loosee."

-John, (John Loosee), 1783, of Rombout, "son of Abraham Loosee."

-Joseph, (Joseph Loosee), 1782-1785.

-Langdon, (Landon Loose), 1787-1788, of Rombout, "a carpenter."

Lossing, Abraham, (Abraham Lawson), 1789, "John," "son of -John Lawson and grandson of William Lawson."

-Mrs. Andreas, (Widow Lawson, Widow Andres Lawson), 1788, "employed by John Dates."

- Grashe, (Grashe Lawson), 1785, "daughter of Peter Lawson."

Lossing, Henry Andreas, (Henry Andras Lawson), 1782.

-Isaac, (Isaac Lawson), 1775, of Fishkill.

- John, (John Lawson), 1775.

- John, Jr., (John Lawson), 1789-1792, "son of John Lawson," "dressing frozen foot."

- Lawrence, (Larnce Lawson), 1776, of Fishkill, loan of 3 pounds "to you and your comrade," (was son of or had a child named Lawrence Lossing.)

- Mary, (Mary Lasin), 1775.

- Matthew, (Mathew Lawson), 1785, "son to Simon Lawson," "his son Peter Lawson."

- Peter, (Peter Lawson), 1782-1787, of Fishkill, "Andreas," see Grashe Lawson.

-Peter, Jr., (Cline Peter Lawson), 1785-1791.

- Simon, (Simon Lawson), 1784, 1786, "son of William," see George Dollson.

- William, Sr., (William Lawson, senior), 1776, of Fishkill.

93

-William Andreas, (William Andres Lawson), 1782.

-William P., (William P. Lawson), 1776, 1783, "William Lawson that married Gans."

Low, Andrew, 1785, "employed John Van Benscoten."

-William, 1785-1786, 1791, "a blacksmith."

Luckey, James, (James Luckee), 1783-1785, of Rombout, -"Samuel Lucke," "sisters daughter," "wench."

-Samuel,(Samuel Lucke), 1786-1788, of Rombout, see Thomas Pinckney.

Luyster, Capt. Cornelius, (Capt. Curnalus Lister, Squire Curnalus Lester), 1790-1792, of Fishkill.

-Dirck, (Derick Lyster), 1785-1789, 1792, of Fishkill.

-Garret, (Garact Lyster), 1785, 1791, of Fishkill, "a blacksmith."

-John, (John Lyster), 1790, of Fishkill.

-Matthias, (Capt. Tyse Lyster), 1783-1792, of Fishkill, "John," "young woman," (see John Coe.) -Peter, (Peter Leyster), 1776, 1785-1793, of Fishkill.

Mabbett, Joseph, see John Ray. Mack, John, 1792.

Mackie, David, (David Macke), 1790, of Marlboro, "over the river," "employed by Van Kurin."

Manney, Wines, (Whyns Manne), 1776, 1783-1786, of Poughkeepsie.

-Wines, Jr., (Whines Manna younger), 1790-1791, of Poughkeepsie.

Manning, Joshua, (Joshua Mannin), 1776.

Mapes, Peter, (Peter Maphes), 1791.

Martin, , (Mr. Martin), 1791, "son-in-law to Sollen Fowler."

Masten, Aert, ?, (Oart Mowston), 1783.

-Henry, 1791, of Poughkeepsie, "lives by the creek."

Matthews, Samuel, 1790, of Poughkeepsie. , (Mr. Maton), 1792, "Solomon Fowlers son-in-law.

Maton, McBride, John, 1782-1783, of Rombout, "his negro," "Noah Clark."

McCord, Benjamin, 1791.

-Joseph, (Joseph McCoord), 1788, of Fishkill, "employed

by John Williams."

-Samuel, 1790.

-William, 1788, 1790, of Fishkill, "son to Joseph."

McCrady, James, (James McCrade), 1783, of Fishkill.

McKenzie, Betsy, (Betsee McKinsee), n.d., c 1785, "Samuel Jackson."

Meddaugh, James (Cobus or James), 1788-1790.

-James, Jr., (James Medoch), 1789-1790, "son of James Medoch."

-Joris, (Yeoras Medoch), 1784-1789, of Rombout, "son of Youras Medoch," "James Medoch."

Mesier, Peter, (Peter Muszear), 1782-1784, of Rombout, "merchant," "his negro wench."

Meynema, John (John Manemow), 1791, of Fishkill.

Midlar, Aaron, (Aaron Midlor), n.d., c 1784, 1790, of Fishkill.

-John, (John Midlor), 1787, 1790, of Fishkill.

Milkins, Robert, (or possibly Robert Mulkins), see James Reynolds, Sarah Young.

Miller, James, 1792, of Fishkill.

-Jonathan, 1791.

94

Montfort, Albert, (Albert Monfoort), 1790, "of Sprout Creek," see Elbert Montfort.

-Albert H., (Albart H. Monfoort), 1791, of Rombout -Albert J., (Albart J. Monfoort), 1785, 1790, "son-inlaw Charck Van Kurin."

-Dominicus, (Merekus Monfort), 1789, see Thomas Jackson.

-Elbert, (Elbert Monfoort), 1783-1793, of Rombout, "sonin-law of Hogelandt," "his negro boy," "Albart," "Henry," (relationships unknown,) see Albert Montfort.

-Henry, (Henry Monfoort), 1793, of Rombout, "son of Peter Monfoort."

-John, (John Monfoort), 1783-1788, 1790-1791, of Rombout, "David," (relationship unknown.)

-Peter H. (Peter H. Monfoort), 1788-1793, of Rombout.

Montross, Anne, 1783, of Fishkill.

-Peter, (Peter Montros), 1775, of Fishkill.

Moore, Abel, (Aleal More), n.d., c 1785, "lives over the river."

-Isaac, (Ezeak Moor), 1784.

Morgan, , (Mr. Morgan), n.d., c 1787, 1790, "lives by John Myers."

-John, n.d., c 1782, "came to the Board with me."

-Thomas, 1790, of Rombout, "a curreor," "at Nathaniel Soams," "delivering wife."

-William, 1789, "Nathaniel Soames."

Morrell, John, 1792.

Mosher, William, 1775, see Joseph Landers.

Mott, John, (Old John Moot), 1785, of Rombout, "Employed Stephen Ackens," "his son-in-law Samuel Titus."

Mulkins, Robert, see Robert Milkins.

Myers, Aaron, 1782-1783, "Harlem."

-Abraham, 1791-1792, of Middlebush.

-Anna, 1792, "employed by Abraham Myers."

Morgan.

-John, 1776, 1788, of Middlebush, see -John, Jr., (the younger John Myers), 1786-1788, 1791, of Middlebush.

-Mrs. John, n.d., c 1783, "Mr. Ockermans (Ackerman) daughter John Myers wife."

-Polly, (Polle Myers), 1785.

-Simon J., 1784-1786, "Gilbert," (relationship unknown.)

-William, 1789, "at Oswego."

Oakley, Nehmiah, (Memiah Ockly), 1790, of Rombout.

Ogden, Jack, 1785-1787.

Osborn, Samuel, (Samuel Osburn), 1785, of Fishkill, "employed James Way, mason."

Ostrom, Jacobus, 1790, of Beekman.

Outwater, Daniel, n.d., c 1784, of Rombout.

Owen, Joshua, 1784, (lived in the present town of Pleasant Valley.)

Palen, Ezekiel, (Ezeheal Palin), 1784, 1790, of Rombout.

-Gysbert, (Gibbart Palen), 1776, 1789, of Rombout.

-Henry, 1776, 1783-1785, of Rombout.

-Paulus, (Pawlis Palin), 1776, 1784, of Rombout.

-Peter, (Peter Palin), 1784-1792, of Rombout, "son of Polis."

Palmatier, Isaac, (Isaac Palmeteer), 1789.

Patterson, Abijah, (Abijah Patason), 1783-1787, of Fishkill, "Piter," "John," "children," (relationships unknown.)

Patton, Betsy, see Banjamin Everett.

Pells, Peggy,(Pegga Pals), 1790.

95

-Simon, (Simon Pels), 1776, of Rombout.

Perkins, , (Widow Parekins), 1783, "employd by son Zopar," (believed to be New Paltz.)

-Ebenezer, (Ebenezer Paarkens), 1787-1789, "a blacksmith," see William , (believed to be New Paltz.)

-Zophar, (Zofer Parekens), 1789-1791, (believed New Paltz.)

Peters, , (Mr. Peters),n.d., c 1783, "a weaver," "John," (relationship unknown.)

Phillips, Conrad, (Coonrod Philips), 1785-1788, of Rombout, "son of Henry," "James," "Cobus," (relationship unknown,) see Ebenezer Staples.

-Henry, 1785-1788, of Rombout, "his son Coonrad."

-John, Jr., (John Philips, Jr.), 1775, of Rombout.

-Ruloef, 1791, of Rombout.

Pinckney, Samuel, 1783, of Poughkeepsie, see Springsteen.

-Thomas, 1787-1788, of Poughkeepsie, "cancer," "Samuel Luckey."

Platt, Zephaniah, (Zeafa Plat), 1785-1789, of Poughkeepsie.

Plough, William, (Wilhelmus Plow), 1788, 1791, of Fishkill.

Presley or Preslar, (Master Presle), 1790, (possibly New Paltz.)

Randall, Matthew, (Mathew Randel), 1788-1789, "of Middlebush."

Rapalje, John, (John Rapelja), 1790-1791, of Fishkill, "a shoemaker," "Rapple."

Rapre, John, 1789.

Ray, , (Mr. Ray), 1790, of Rombout, "near Carman on Jonathan Thorns farm," (possibly John or Thomas Ray.) -John, 1786, "near Joseph Mabbett."

Reichard, John, (John Reckard), 1788.

Remsen, Ranshe, (Ranshe Ramsone), n.d., c 1784, of Rombout, "employed by Harmonsee."

Reynolds, James, (James Runnels), 1784, 1786-1787, "a miller," "brother-in-law to Robert Malkins."

Rhodes, Eliza, (Eliza Rods), 1790, of Marlboro, "her brother Michea," "over the river."

Ricketson, Rowland, (Rownling Rickerson), 1783, of Beekman.

Robinson, John, (John Robbeson), 1783, 1790, of Fishkill, "woman chyld."

Rodgers, Saffer, (Saffer Rodgars), 1786-1787, "at Oswego."

-Thomas, (Thomas Rodgar), 1788, of Fishkill, "son of William."

-William, 1785, of Fishkill, "employed by Benjamin More."

Roe, Benjamin, 1776, 1783-1791, of Rombout, "bleeding him," "his son William Roe," "Benjamin Roe younger," "his wench Ann," "his young wench."

-Benjamin, Jr., 1791, of Rombout, see Peggy Casebee.

-John, 1792, of Rombout.

-Roger, (Rodger Roe), 1787-1788, "near Dunkin Graham."

-William, 1790-1792, of Rombout, "his wench."

-Mrs. William, (Widow Roe), 1780, 1785, of Rombout, "the wife of William Roe late."

Romer, Aaron, (Aaron Rommar), 1789-1790.

-Annethe, 1786-1788.

-John, 1783-1791, of Fishkill, "his daughter Mary," -"Aaron," (possibly a son.)

-Mrs. John, 1792, of Fishkill.

Romeyn, Isaac, (Isaac Rymmone), 1793, of Poughkeepsie.

96

Ronts, Thomas, 1790, "on Hagamans place."

Roosekrans, John, (John Rosecrans), 1783, 1790, of Fishkill, "woman chyld."

-Peter, (Peter Rosecrans), 1785-1793, of Fishkill.

-Thomas, (Thomas Rosecrans), 1790, of Fishkill, see Moses Sherwood.

Ruger, John, (John Rugar), 1786, 1791, of Rombout, "son of Hans Rugar."

Ryan, , (Mr. Ryan), 1787, of Fredericksburgh, "Schoolmaster at Capt. Makeels."

Rynders, Andreas, (Andreas Rynis), 1783, of Rombout, "John," (relationship unknown.)

-Harmanus, (Haremonus Rinis), 1775, 1787-1788, 1792, of Rombout, "at Hagemans."

Rysdyck, Garmack, (Garmack Risedick), 1791, of Rombout.

-(Henrietta), (Widow Risedike), 1791-1792, of Rombout, "widow Henriette," "Peter," (relationship unknown.)

-Rev. Isaac, (Revrnt. Isaac Risendick), 1785-1787, of Rombout, "delivered wife."

Saintjohn, , (Mr. Saintjohn, probably Thomas), 1790, of Fishkill.

Sands, , (Mrs. Sands, Mrs. Comfort Sands?), 1788, "at Verplancks."

Saul, Free Negro, 1783, 1791.

Schenck, Gysbert, (Gisbart Scank), 1786-1789, 1791, of Fishkill, "his wench."

-Roeloff, (Rulof Scanck), 1784, 1790, of Fishkill.

-Roeloff, Jr., (Young Roluf Scank), 1792, of Fishkill.

Schoonhoven, Benjamin, (Benjaman Sconnover), 1791.

Schoonmaker, Henry, (Henry Scoonmonker), 1786-1787, 1790, "a younger man," "Jeremiah Brumb."

Schutt, Freiderich, (Frade or Fade Scoott), 1791-1792, of Fishkill.

-Joseph, (Joseph Scoot), 1787-1790, of Poughkeepsie.

-Michael, (Myckell Shutt), 1790-1791.

Scott, George, (George Scoott), 1775, "a blackman."

-James, see David Anderson.

(Mr. Seale), 1789, "at Mr. Brush."

Seale, Seaman, David, (David Semon), 1782-1784, of Fishkill, "a miller."

Seymour, Stephen, (Stephen Saymour), 1784-1785.

Shafer, Frederick, 1783.

Sharer, Peter, (Peter Shearer), 1783, of Rombout, "a blacksmith."

Shaw, David, 1793.

Sheffield, John, see Henry Crawford.

Sheldon, Caleb, (Caleb Sheldin), 1786, of Dover, "employed Mr. Woolcocks."

Sheldon, Thomas, (Thomas Sheldin) (probably Capt. Thomas Sheldon), 1787-1788, of Dover.

Sheon, John, 1792, "a blacksmith."

Sherwood, Moses, (Moses Shearwood), 1783, of Fishkill, "employed Thomas Rosecrans," "delivering wife."

Shute, Aaron, (Aaron Shut), 1791, of Fishkill. , (Mr. Simons), 1783, 1791, "at Runnells Simmons, Mill."

-Hansa, 1782.

Simpson, John (John Simson), 1791, "the house above Croklot house."

97

Skinner, , (Mr. Skinner, possibly Thomas), 1793, of Fishkill.

Sleight, Jacobus, (James Sloit), 1791, of Rombout.

-John, (John Slack), 1786-1792, of Rombout, "near Gideon Van Velea," "Abraham."

Smith, , (Smith), 1787, of Poughkeepsie, "living at stone house by Will Jacocks."

-John, (John Smyth high Duker), (Highdekker ?, high Dutcher ?), 1788-1793, of Rombout, "son-in-law to Cloomp."

-Samuel, 1784-1788, of Oswego.

Snediker, Richard, 1775-1776, 1783-1787, of Poughkeepsie, "James," (relationship unknown.)

Snyder, Jost, (Old Mr. Youst Snyder), 1783, of Rombout.

Soams, Nathaniel, see Thomas Morgan, William Morgan, (of Rombout.)

Spencer, , 1783, of Beekman, "son-in-law to Dennis Chiste," (Christie.) , 1776, of Poughkeepsie, "at Samuel Springsteen, Pinckneys."

-David, (David Springstad), 1786-1794, of Rombout.

Staples, Ebenezer, (Ebenezer Steaplls), 1786, of Barnegat, "son-in-law of Coonrad Philips."

Storm, Dirck, (Derick Storm), 1776, of Rombout, "employed

by Gorus Storm."

-Gorus, (Goris Storm), 1784, 1788, of Rombout.

-Peter, 1784, 1787, of Rombout, "son of Goris," "delivered wife."

-Soalsmar ?, (Soalsmar Storms), 1782.

Striker, James, 1783.

Stringham, Owen, (Own Stringom), 1776, of Fishkill.

-Samuel, (Samuel Stringom), 1787, of Fishkill, "employed by John Townsin."

Stotesbury, Dr. , (Doct. Stoutboro), 1789, of Fishkill.

Taylor, Samuel, 1790, of Oswego.

TerBush, Jacob, (Jacob Bush), 1785-1790, of Fishkill, "a blacksmith," "his chyld Jacob."

Terlew, , (Mr. Turlew), 1792, "employed by his son James over the river."

Terpenning, John, (John Tarpina), 1790-1792, of Rombout.

Terry, Franna, 1791.

-William, (William Terre), 1775, of Poughkeepsie, (probably William Terry, the hatter, of Poughkeepsie.)

Terwiliger, Jurian, (Yearion Turwellegar), 1779-1788, of Rombout.

Thocal ?, Joseph, n.d., c 1783, "negro."

Thompson, Samuel, (Samuel Tomson), 1787, "employed by Nixon."

Thorn, Cornelius, 1782, of Rombout, "son of Jonathan Thorn."

-Isaac, 1775, 1787, of Rombout.

-Jonathan, see Ray. -Joseph, 1788, 1791, of Rombout, "sparma elix."

Thurston, Benjamin,(Benjamin Thustin), 1787, 1791, of Fishkill.

-Joseph, (Joseph Thustin), 1782, of Rombout.

-Thomas, (Thomas Thustin), 1786-1787, 1791.

Tist ?, Robert, 1787-1791, of Fishkill, "son-in-law of Jeremiah Jones."

Titus, Ebenezer, 1787-1789, of Rombout, "near Barnt Valays."

-Samuel, see John Mott.

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, (Widow Toboy), 1775-1776, of Poughkeepsie, Tobias, "employed by mother."

-Frederick, 1782-1791, of Poughkeepsie, "Henry," (relationship unknown.)

Todd, Robert, 1776, 1786-1789, of Rombout, "taking out a cancer, "leephrosy," (see Mrs. Wolf.)

Totten, Mrs. John, (Widow Totten), 1776, 1788, of Rombout, "widow of John Totten.

Townsend, Calab, (Caleb Townsin), 1776.

-Elijah, (Elija Townsin), 1783-1785, of Oswego.

-Gideon, (Giddon Townsing), 1790, of Fishkill, "employed

by Geordge Juel," opening tumor."

-John, (John Townsin), 1783, of Fishkill, "hatter," see Samuel Stringham.

-Stephen, (Stephen Townsin), 1786, of Rombout, "near Joseph Jackson."

Turner, , (Mr. Turnor), 1791.

Tusten, Peggy, (Widow Pegga Thustin), 1791.

-Thomas, (Thomas Thustin), 1790-1791.

Vail, Daniel, (Daniel Veal), 1783, of Fishkill, "son-in-law of John Huson."

-Isaac, see John Bool.

Velie, Barnt, see Ebenezer Titus.

-Goose, (Gosa Veal), 1788, of Rombout, "at Wapping Creek," "his negro boy."

-Capt. Minard, (Capt. Mynard Veale), 1786, of Rombout.

Vemont, John Pierre, 1790, of Poughkeepsie.

Vermilye, David, (David Varmillear), 1787, of Fishkill.

-Garardus, (Gradous Varmillar), 1787, of Fishkill.

-John, (John Furmiller, Fumalaer), 1786, 1790, of Fishkill, "son of John Furmiller," "a shoemaker."

Verplanck, Catharine, (Cate Varplanck the older), 1787, of Rombout.

-Caty, (Caty Verplanck, Philip's sister), 1783, of Rombout.

-Crommeline (Cromeline Varplanck), 1788, of Rombout.

VerValen, Daniel, (Daniel Van Vala), 1790, of Rombout.

-Freeborn, (Freeburn FunValie), 1785, of Rombout, "Hannah Vun Valies husband.)

-Gideon, see John Sleight.

-Jeremiah, (Jeremiah Van Valee), 1785, of Rombout.

-John, (John Fun Vale), 1789, of Rombout.

-Moses, (Moses Van Vale), 1790-1791, of Rombout.

Vincent, John, (John Vinsant), 1775.

Van Alst, Isaac, (Isaac Van Aulst), 1789, of Rombout.

Van Amburgh, John, (John Van Burgh), 1790, of Fishkill.

-William, see Henry Bogart.

Van Bommel, Christopher, (Cristefor Van Bumbel), 1782-1783, of Poughkeepsie.

-Peter, (Peter Van Bumble), 1785, of Poughkeepsie.

Van Bremen, Peter, (Peter Funbramer), 1784-1790, of Rombout, "his wench."

-Thomas, (Thomas Funbramer), 1786, of Rombout.

Van Bunschoten, Col. Elias, (Connell Elias Van Benscoten, Old Elias), 1783-1788, 1790-1791, of Poughkeepsie, "washing his wound," "John," "cancer tumor."

-Isaac, (Isaac Van Benscotan), 1789.

-James, (James Van Benscoten), 1786-1788, of Poughkeepsie, "son of Elias," "setting two fractured arms."

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-Capt. John, (Capt. John Van Benscoten), 1783, see Andrew Low. -Matthew Van Bunschoten, (Mathew Van Benscoten), 1789-1790, 1792, of Rombout, "his black chyld."

-Peter, (Peter Van Benscoten), 1793, of Rombout, "Peter," (relationship unknown.)

-Tunis, 1775-1776, 1783-1788, of Rombout, "his black chyld," "Adam," "Susan."(relationships unknown), see Obediah Cooper.

VanderBilt, Arie, (Oart Van Debilt), 1787-1788, of Rombout, see Peter Wyckoff.

-Philip, (Philip Vandebilt), 1792, of Rombout, "delivered wife."

VanderBurgh, William, (William Vandeburg), 1790, of Rombout.

VandeWater, Adolf, (Dollofus Van De Warter), 1786, of Rombout.

-Benjamin, (Benjamin Vandewarter), 1784-1788, of Rombout.

-Benjamin, Jr., (Benjamin Van Dewarter younger), 1788, 1791.

-Harmanus, (Harmonus VanDewarter), 1783, 1788.

-Peter, (Peter Vandewarter), 1782-1789, of Rombout, "James wife."

-William, (William Vandeworter), 1791, "son of Benjamin Vandewarter."

Van Dyck, Cornelius, (Cornalus Van Dick), 1784, of Crum Elbow, "at Crumelbo Crick," "daughter employed by James Lawrence."

Van Everen, Pade ?, (Pade Van Every), 1783, of Rombout.

Van Keuren, Abraham, (Abraham Vankurin), 1788-1792, "John Morgan," "Benjamin," (relationship unknown.)

-Benjamin, (Benjam Van Kuren), 1791, "a schoolmaster," "son of Mathew."

-Jacobus, (Cobus Van Kurin), 1790, "son of Cark."

-Matthew, (Mathew Van Kurren), 1784-1785, 1791, "his wench."

-Tjerck, (Chark Van Kurin), 1786-1789, of Rombout, "Cornelius," "Benjamin," (relationships unknown,) see Albert J. Montfort.

Van Kleeck, Ahasueras, (Swans Van Cleeck), 1782-1788, of Rombout, "Anne mother," "woman at his house," "Black chyld."

-Baltus, (Baltus Van Cleak), 1776, of Rombout, "bill paid by benefit of the act."

-Baltus, Jr., 1784-1788, 1790, of Rombout, "son of Baltus," "fractured arm."

-Barant, (Barnt Van Klack), 1785-1789, of Rombout, "at Simon Laroys," "son of Baltus."

-Cornelius Leonard Van Kleeck, 1783, "little wench."

-Henry, 1789, of Rombout.

-Hugh, 1783, of Rombout.

-Lawrence, (Larence Van Kleeck), 1775-1776, of Rombout.

-Levi, 1788-1789, 1791, of Rombout, "son to Peter."

-Michael, (Mickel Van Kleeck), 1791, of Rombout, "son to Barnt Van Kleeck."

-Peter, 1790, of Rombout, "his grandson over the hill."

Van Norstrand, Cornelius, (Cornalus Noorstrant), 1783-1784, 1790.

-George, (Geodge Van Norst), 1789, of Rombout, "due from Isaac," "delivering wife."

-James, (James Noortstrant), 1785, "son of Garret."

-Jane, (Jane Van Norstrandt), 1789, "employed by her brother."

100

-John, (John Van Nostrant), 1783, 1790.

Van Siclen, Cornelius, (Cornalis Van Suklin), 1783-1786, 1792, of Poughkeepsie or Rombout.

-John, (John Van Sicklen), 1776, 1783-1789, 1791, of Rombout.

Van Steenburgh, Elias, (Elias Stenbarrick), 1788-1789, of Rombout, "at Cornalus Duboys."

-Flem, (Flem, Fleaman Van Stenbarck), 1776, 1787-1789.

-Henry, (Henry Steenbarck), 1787, "delivering wife."

-Jacobus, see Thomas Blount.

-John, (John Steenbarck), 1791, of Poughkeepsie.

Van Tassell, Hendrick, (Henry Van Tassel), 1775, of Rombout.

-Jacob, (Jacob Vantassel), 1784, 1790, of Rombout.

-John, 1787-1788, of Rombout.

Van Tyne, William, (William Fun Tyne), 1783-1787, of Middlebush, see John Dennis.

Van Vliet, Frederick, (Fredrack Van Vleat), 1785-1786, "his wench."

-Garret, (Garrat Van Vleat), 1785-1786, of Rombout.

-Peter, (Peter Van Vleat), 1784, of Fishkill.

Van Wyck, Abraham, (Abraham Van Wick), 1790, of Rombout, "living in the hook."

-Cornelius, (Cornelus Van Why, Squire Cornalus Van Wick), 1786-1792, of Fishkill, "his son Richard."

-William, (William Van Wick), 1785-1787, of Rombout.

Waldron, Peter, (Peter Waldrin), 1790, of Fishkill, (a merchant.)

Waring, Daniel, (Daniel Woring), 1789, (possibly Fishkill.)

Warner, John, (John Worner), 1791, of Rombouts, "merchant Wappings Creek."

Way, Daniel, 1786-1788, of Oswego.

-James, see Samuel Osborn.

Weaver, Michael, (Michel Weaffer), 1785-1794, of Fishkill, "a weaver."

-Peter, (Peter Waver), 1791-1792.

Weeks, Obediah, 1784, of Fishkill.

-Rachael, 1783.

Weldon, Thomas, n.d., c 1786, "maried the widow Green," (possibly Fishkill.)

Wells, Henry, 1786, of Fishkill, "schoolmaster."

Westervelt, , (Vesterwelt), 1783, "married Short."

-Abraham, (Abraham Vesterwelt, Vosterwelt), 1775-1776, 1778, 1783-1793, of Poughkeepsie, "his wench," "John," (relationship unknown.)

- Benjamin, (Benjamin Vesterwelt), 1790, of Poughkeepsie, "son of Cornalus."

- Casparus, (Caspardus Vesterwelt), 1791, of Poughkeepsie, "son of Cornalus."

- Cate, (Cate Vesterwelt), 1788, of Poughkeepsie, "widow employed brother-in-law."

- Cornelius, (Cornalus Vesterwelt), 1776, 1789, of Poughkeepsie, "son of Benjamin."

- John, (John Vesterwelt), 1791, of Poughkeepsie.

-Joost, (Youse Vesterwelt), 1783, of Poughkeepsie.

Wilcox, , (Mr. Wilcox), 1784, "at Dover," "James," (relationship unknown.)

Wilkinson, John (John Wilkerson), 1786, of Rombout, "delivering wife."

Williams, John, see Joseph McCord.

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Wilson, Robert, 1783, of Fishkill, "delivering wife."

Wiltse, Widow, see John Churchill.

-Cradus ?, (Cradus Willsee), 1791, of Fishkill, "delivering wife," "making cider, 4 shillings."

-Henry, (Henry Wilsee), 1783, of Barnegat, "son of John."

-Henry, (Henry Wilse), 1788-1789, of Fishkill, "son of William Willsee," "delivering wife."

-Jacob, 1777-1778, of Fishkill, "son of William and grandson of Henry Willsee."

-John, (John Wilsie), 1790, of Fishkill, "for his negro."

-William Wiltse, (William Willse), 1789, "son of Henry Willsee."

Wolf, Mrs. , (Mrs. Wolf), 1789, of Rombout, "at Robert Todds."

- Godfrey, (Godfree Woolf), 1786-1788, 1791, "his negro boy," "delivering his wife."

-William, 1784.

Wood, Capt. , (Capt. Wood), 1785, "over the river."

- James, 1786-1793, of Fishkill, "a cooper."

Woolley, Charles, (Charls Wolle), 1792, of Marlboro, "over the river."

Worden, , (Widow Wordin), 1791. , (Schoolmaster Wordin), 1792.

Wyckoff, Peter, (Peter Whycoff, Wycop), 1788-1792, of Rombout, "son-in-law to Aries VandeBilt."

Yerry, Peter, (Peter Yarry), 1786, of Poughkeepsie.

Young, Sarah, (Sary Young), 1790, "employed by Robert Milkins." , Sally, (Sale), 1791, "a negro."

- William, 1791, "son-in-law to Parkins," (probably - Ebenezer Perkins of New Paltz.)

(Bibliographical note: For more detailed material on Dr. Thorn, his family and the curse see: Bailey, Henry DuBois, Local Tales and Historical Sketches, Fishkill Landing, 1874.

New York Daily Advertiser, February 27, 1789.

New York Packet, March 10, 1789.

Reynolds, Helen Wilkinson, Dutchess County Doorways, New York, 1931.

Reynolds, Helen Wilkinson, notes (for preceeding volume), Adriance Memorial Library.

Thorn, Geneological notes on the family, on file, Adriance Memorial Library.

Dutchess County Historical Society, Yearbook, Volume 28, "Lieut. Jonathan Thorn," 1943.)

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IN SEARCH OF COLLATERAL ANCESTORS

By Robert Pierce (The Sixth Chapter of the Flagler Family) The fifth chapter of the Flagler saga, appearing in the Dutchess County Historical Society 1976-77 Year Book, was an excursus devoted to the life and times of the Reverend Isaac Flagler, a Presbyterian minister and the great-grandson of the immigrant Zacharias (Zachariah) Flagler. As was pointed out, this lineage digression purposely excluded two earlier generations; an omission which it is now the intention of the writer to include in this narrative.

A recent publication of the Parish Register of Saint Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church of West Camp, Ulster County, New York, happily rendered into English from the original Dutch cacography, provides pertinent vital statistics not previously afforded this researcher. The record asserts that on "11 March 1711 Zacharias Flegler from Wertheim in Franconia and Anna Elizabetha, widow of the late Georg Schultz (Schultzen) from Darmstadt territory" were married, the ceremony being "performed in the time of the ministry of Joshua Kocherthal, first minister of the Germans Lutherans in this province."

As was shown in the 1975 Year Book, this "first" Zacharias and Anna Elizabeth (her maiden name was Hoofd) had five children: Anna Magdalena Elizabetha, born 19 September 1712; Simon, born 16 February 1714; Gertruda, born 8 May 1717; Margareta, born 12 February 1719; and Zacharias, born 6 July 1720. Zacharias was a posthumous baby, his father having died in March of that year.

Zacharias (Senior) at the time of this, his third marriage, had by a former wife a son, living, by the name of Philip Solomon Flagler (Flegler, Flagllar), born 21 August 1701, who accompanied his father to the American shores in 1710, his mother, a sister, and a brother having died at sea.

As was noted in a former chapter the "first" Zacharias Flagler was born at Urphar, Franconia Province, Germany in 1676, and as a young man belonged to a military unit which apparently moved about extensively. He met and married as his first wife Anna Elizabeth (last name unknown) sometime prior to the year 1700. In an ancient churchbook at Dannenfels, a hamlet sixty miles due west across the Rhine from Urphar, in the Rhineland Palatinate, is the following entry: "Philip Salomon, son to Zacharias Flegeler and his wife Anna Elisabeth, was born 21 August, 1701; sponsor was the Pastor's servant from Marnheim, Anna Magdalena Heckin." What a pity that the wife's maiden name was not mentioned!

Philip Solomon Flagler (spelled Flagllar on his headstone) settled on his father's farm land in the early years of the 18th century, the property being in the Beekman Precinct north of the present village of Green Haven. Dr. J. Wilson Poucher, surgeon, physician, and historian in his "Old Gravestones of Dutchess County" wrote that Philip Solomon Flagler built a house in 1736 east of the burial ground in the hollow under the hill." He states further that the shell of the house outline was visible in 1913. The hill to which he refers is now crowned by the recently dedicated Flagler graveyard -- a wind-swept eminence commanding views of forests, fields, and patures on every side.

103

On the Beekman tax lists, compiled by Mr. Clifford Buck, Philip Solomon's name appears January 1723, 24, 25, 26 in the North Ward and in the South Ward from 1724 to 1738, which may indicate that he owned or at least paid taxes in two locations.

In 1719 Dutchess County had been divided into three Wards: North, Middle, and South. The line between the North and Middle Wards ran eastward from Esopus Island to the Connecticut line; the line between the Middle and South Wards ran eastward from the mouth of Wappingers Creek to the Connecticut border. Thus it would appear that Philip Flagler's holdings were several miles apart.

Based upon genealogical questions and replies appearing in the justly respected "Boston Evening Transcript" of 1917 Philip Solomon Flagler is noted as having married about the year 1724, at age 23, Anna Margret Winegar, called the widow Dopp, possibly the relict of a Johannis or Pieter Dopp, both of whom in 1717 and 1718 appear on the North Ward tax lists.

Altho the name Winegar is not shown on her headstone, it is spelled out that she was the wife of Philip Solomon, was born in 1682 and died 5 July 1764. Records indicate that she was the daughter of Uldrick Winegar, who, born in 1652, died in 1754 at the age of 102. He was a Palatinate of East Camp and in 1724 settled at Amenia Union. A wood-cut of the Winegar home at one time occupied by Captain Garrett is shown on page 111 of Philip H. Smith's "General History of Dutchess County." A Gerret Wenger, probably the Captain, is on the tax lists of the Middle Ward in 1726-27 and again in 1732.

The foregoing statements about the Winegar family's connection with that of the Flagler's are vigorously disputed by Mr. Hank Jones of Universal City, California. Mr. Jones for many years has conducted extensive genealogical and historical investigations of the Palatine families of New York, and proposes in a short while to publish in book form the results of his research in America and Europe.

Indeed, his representative in Germany has been charged with the task of tracing the origin and movements of 800 Palatine families which arrived in America in 1710.

In a recent letter to the writer Mr. Jones contends that the maiden name of Philip Solomon Flagler's wife was not Anna Margret Winegar, but Anna Margret Dopf, who, before her marriage to Flagler, was the widow of one Jerg Demuth.

As proof for his statements Mr. Jones cites the following documentary evidence. The 1709 London census of Palatines shows Ulrich Winegar as having daughters eleven and four years of age, thus born about 1697 and 1705, and not on the date of 1692 shown on Anna's headstone. Also, says Mr. Jones, the Kingston Reformed Churchbook always lists the maiden name of the mother in its baptismal records -- never her former married name, if a widow. Thusly, on the 1726 baptism date record of Zacharias, shown as 30 March, eldest son of Zacharias and Anna, the maiden name of the mother is listed as "Dop." This surname was also displayed for her in the church records of Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, and Rhinebeck.

Furthermore, the actual baptism of Anna Margaretha in German records agrees precisely with her tombstone inscription. I quote from Mr. Jones' letter: "Anna Margaretha, daughter of Peter and Anna Margaret Dopp, was baptized on either the 5th or 15th of February 1691 at the Medard Reformed Church, Pfalz.

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The sponsors were Hans Job Verckerdt and Anna Margaret, the young wife of the young Berndt from Cronenberg, and Anna Elizabetha, the unmarried daughter of Leonhardt Bernhardt, and the child's aunt. The father of Anna Margaretha Dopf Demuth Flagler was Peter Dopf, baptized on 8 September 1667 at Medard. He was the son of Hans Peter Dopp who was dead by 1688.

"Peter Dopf, Jr. married Anna Margaret Bernhardt on 14 or 24 February 1688 at Medard. Peter Dopf came to America with the other 1709ers. He was of Queensbury when he was a Palatine volunteer in the Canadian expedition of 1711. He was naturalized at Kingston on 8 and 9 September 1715. He was on the Simmendinger register of 1717 with his wife and three children. He appears on the published Dutchess County tax lists from 1717 thru 1728-29, usually in the North Ward, where he was overseer of the King's highway in 1725.

"Anna Margaretha Dopf, daughter of Peter and Anna Margaret Dopp, married Jerg Demuth, son of Alexander Demuth of Runckel-on-the-Lahn on 26 October 1714. They are listed at Hayesbury about 1717 in the Simmendinger Register. Jerg and Anna Margaretha had two known children: Johann Peter Demuth, born January 1720 and baptized at Rhinebeck, and a daughter, Elizabeth, baptized 3 July 1715 at Kingston.

'June De Mout' is listed in the Dutchess County tax lists of 1717 thru 1720. His widow is listed 1720-21 and thru 9 August 1722; but she is not on the rolls of 20 December 1722. This suggests to me that she may have married Philip Solomon Flagler between 9 August and 20 December 1722."

These citations, advanced by Mr. Jones, are most convincing, and, as Anna Margret's ancestry does not materially affect the continuity of the Flagler history, the matter may be laid to rest, until the Winegar line surfaces again with the next generation of Flaglers.

While on the general subject of matrimony it is interesting to note certain nuptial preliminaries peculiar to ante-Revolutionary times. Patriarchal authority was universally recognized, respected, and obeyed. Young people did not approach the matter of love until certain preambles were arranged by the respective fathers of bride and bridegroom.

An example of this, in the form of correspondence between concerned parties, occurred in Virginia. The people were of English extraction, altho similar circumstances undoubtedly applied to the Dutch of New York. One, John Walker, father of the youth, writes to Bernard Moore, father of the girl.

"Dear Sir: My son, John Walker, having informed me of his intention to pay his addresses to your daughter, Elizabeth, if he should be agreeable to yourself, lady, and daughter, it may not be amiss to inform you what I think myself able to afford for their support in case of a union. My affairs are in an uncertain state, but I believe I can promise 1000 pounds a year for several years; the sums to be paid in money, lands, or effects. I am, Sir, your humble servant, John Walker."

Altho sounding like a case of inverted dowry, Bernard Moore writes in reply: "Dear Sir; Your son, Mr. John Walker applied to me for leave to make his addresses to my daughter, Elizabeth. I gave him leave and told him at the same time that my affairs were in such a state that it was not in my power to pay him all the money this year that I intended to give my daughter, provided he succeeded. I hope to provide 500 pounds in the spring and 500 pounds more as soon as I 105

can get or raise the money. I am, Sir, your obedient servant, Bernard Moore." No subsequent information was supplied as to how these mutual pleas of indigence affected the ultimate plans of the lovers or the outcome of the courtship.

So far as the early Dutch settler of New York is concerned a mental image of the times brings to mind the pages of Washington Irving's "Legend of Sleepy Hollow" and his "Diedrich Knickerbocker's history of New York." The reader perceives a stylized people; the men being portrayed as jovial, corpulent, pipe-smoking, beer-guzzling idlers; and the women "plump as partridges," equally jolly, addicted to household chores, and overall good managers and all-around amiable companions. These caricatures -- for indeed that is what they are -- fail to do justice to Dutch character and temperament. The race was and is the embodiment of patient industry, sobriety, adherence to moral principles, and historic religiosity. A story is told of a domineering father, who, having conducted his daughter to the back yard, faced her toward the west and administered a thrashing, saying that in that direction lay trouble, and then, turning her face to the east, repeated the punishment, declaring that in that direction, too, lay adversity and wickedness; the substance of his admonitions being that her place was in the home and nowhere else.

Anna Margret Flagler predeceased her husband, Philip Solomon by two years, she dying 5 July 1764 and he 14 April 1766. At the death in 1720 of Zacharias, the family founder in America, his farm in Green Haven appears to have passed on to Philip Solomon (1701-1766), as deed books state that he on 1 May 1764 sold 108 acres in "Romboat" Precinct to son Philip Flagler (1731-1804). This may or may not have been part of the original lands. In any event, the quondam disposition of the bodies and headstones of Philip and Anna present something of a mystery. Dr. Poucher asserts that the headstones of Philip and Anna were originally erected in the Flagler burial ground on the farm in Green Haven. It is reasonable, therefore, to infer that their bodies also were interred here, custom and economy dictating that burials be on family lands.

The question arises as to why they, being Lutherans, were not buried in church ground. Colonel Henry Beekman, as we know, gave land in 1738 to Philip Flagler and others of that faith to be used as a burial ground on what is now Haynes Road -- several miles away from Philip's home in Green Haven.

The children of which there were six, of course, may have decided to bury their parents on the home farm. It may well be that the distant Lutheran Church was the first site of their resting place, and that for one reason or another the stones and bodies were removed to Green Haven after the death of Philip in 1766. The Lutheran ground at present gives evidence of many unmarked graves indicative of possible removals and many headstones totally undecipherable.

Whatever may be the conclusion with respect to the question, the fact remains that the ancient brown Dutch headstones of Philip and Anna were not long permitted to abide on the Green Haven farm. Local tradition has it that they were later seen to rest against the side of a barn in the Union Vale area. Miss Helen Reynolds, writing of a visit in 1914 to the "old Union Church on the main road next the farm of Judson Denton" says that the church building was removed 106

and "used as a barn." Later, the stones, side by side, appeared in the Clove Cemetery, from which they were removed prior to 1907 by Mrs. Mary Flagler Foote to the Beekman (Methodist) Cemetery in Poughquag. Once again the headstones of Philip Solomon and Anna have been moved, this in 1976, hopefully for the last time, to the approximate site of their earlier location in the Flagler Green Haven Cemetery, where they now stand among the three score or more headstones of related Flaglers.

The children of Philip Solomon and Anna Margret Flagler were Margaret, born in 1725, who married Johannes Pieter Frolich; Catherine, born 20 August 1727, married Johannes Cremer; Sarah, born 31 May 1730; Helena, born 2 December 1733; Philip, born 24 October 1731, died 7 April 1804, who married 10 June 1760; Sarah Cornell, born 9 February 1733, died 4 February 1802; and Zachariah, born 30 March 1726, died 5 January 1799, who married Catherine Winegar of the Amenia Union Winegars.

The records of Saint Paul's at West Camp show the names, birth and baptismal dates, and sponsors of two of the Americanborn children of Zacharias Flegler and Anna Elizabetha Hoofd, his third wife: Anna Magdalena Elizabetha, born 19 September 1712, baptized 2 October 1712, sponsor, Magdalena, wife of Nicholas Jung; and Simon, born 16 February 1714, baptized 21 February 1714, sponsor, Simon Haass. The three other children of the couple were born presumably in Germantown, Columbia County, after the Flagler family had moved across the Hudson, and were baptized in the Lutheran Church which stood at the north edge of town on what is now denoted Route 9-G. They were Gertruda, born 8 May 1717; Margaretha, born 12 February 1719; and Zacharias, born 6 July 1720.

Anna Magdalena Elizabetha married Johanna Joost Snider (Snyder) probably around the year 1738 in Poughkeepsie. An entry in the records of the Dutch Reformed Church of that city shows a Zacharias, baptized in May of 1739, the son of Johannes Snyder, Junior and Magdalena, sponsors being Zacharias Vleglaer andGertjen Vleglaer. Another son, Phillipus, was baptized 26 May 1741, the sponsors being Saloman Vleglaer and Margriet Dop. A third son, Marcus (Marcy) was baptized 1 April 1743, with Marcus DeMondt and Margaretha Prurch as sponsors. Johannes Snyder, calling himself a Beekman farmer, made a will March 1785, proved 7 March 1788, names wife, Elizabeth, and eight children: John, Baltus (deceased), Semion (Simon), Marcus, Philip, Jacob, Isaac, and Elizabeth.

Mr. George Zabriskie gives the birth of Johannes as about 1703; and from the will we can gather that his wife, Magdalena Elizabetha died after 1785.

Simon Flagler married, first, on 14 January 1739 Jannetse Viele, born 8 February 1716, died about 1763, the daughter of Pieter Viele and his wife Anna Mynertse Van der Bogart (Van den Bogaard), born about 1683. They had ten children: Zachariah, born 23 August 1740, died 1799, married Janetse Palen, born 22 April 1744; Peter, born 17 February 1743, died. infancy; Simon born 1744, died 1816, married Elizabeth Lester, born 1754, died 1842; Peter, born 2 February 1745, married Maria Ostrom 14 January 1768; Joanne, born 12 November 1747, married 9 January 1766 Henry Van Vorhees, born 21 September 1735, died 18 September 1801; Elizabeth , born 1749, married Jacob Lester; Sarah, born 15 May 1751, died 15 September 1825, 107

married a Mr. Van Wagnen; Jane, born 1753; John, born 2 September 1756, died 25 March 1810; and Halanah, born 1757.

Simon married as his second wife Esther Lott on 9 September 1764. Apparently there were no children, Esther dying in 1766, two years after their marriage. Simon lived in Charlotte Precinct, and in his will, made 29 November 1775, he mentions wife Hester (Esther) and the ten children by his first wife, Janetse.

Gertruda Flagler married, first, in April of 1738 Edward McGregory, of whom nothing is known, other than that he survived the marriage only two years, as Gertruda married as her second husband Pieter Vrolich, a name frequently encountered in Dutchess County history.

Margareta Flagler about the year 1737 married Arien (Arlie) De Long, born 6 September 1719, the son of Jonas De Lange and his wife Blandina Peersen. The De Longs came to the Beekman Precinct about 1716. Arien operated an inn at the corner of Beekman Road and the road to the Clove, near the present Clove Farm in the hamlet of Beekmanville.

Arlie De Long died 20 January 1798. The names of his children are not known to the writer, altho persons of apparent relationship appear frequently in local records. The gravestone of a De Long child exists in the Poughquag Methodist Cemetery.

It is with Zacharias, the posthumous son of Zacharias and Anna Hoofd Flagler that our interest chiefly lies. He married, first, Elizabeth Hageman in 1741, by whom he became the father of Joseph, born 5 May 1742. Elizabeth died shortly afterward; for Zacharias married on 28 October 1747 Sarah Barton.

Sarah was born 4 March 1731, one of the eleven children of Joseph Barton and his wife Abigail Lewis. Abigail, born 8 April 1692 in Hartford, Connecticut, was the daughter of Philip Lewis and Sarah Ashley. Philip was the son of William and Mary (Hopkins) Lewis. Sarah Ashley was the daughter of Robert and Mary (Horton) Ashley.

Sarah Barton Flagler's grandfather, Roger Barton, came to New Amsterdam about 1641. In August of the year following he leased a 62 acre farm in lower Manhattan, bounded by Canal and Warren Streets. He later moved to Brookhaven, Long Island, to Rye, Westchester County, and then to Connecticut. He died at Fordham in the Bronx, leaving a will dated 24 July 1688. Roger and his wife Mary had six children, of whom Joseph, the father of Sarah, was born about 1680 in Westchester County. In 1701 he moved to Jamaica, Long Island and later to Scarsdale and to Greenwich, Connecticut. In 1743 he moved to Filkentown, Crum Elbow Precinct, Dutchess County.

The twelve children of Zacharias and Sarah Barton Flagler were: Elizabeth, born 16 January 1748 (died infancy); David, born 17 July 1752; Barton, born 28 June 1754 (died infancy); William, born 6 November 1755; Zachariah, born 18 December 1757; Solomon, born 8 May 1760, died 24 November 1839, who in April 1780 married Esther Ostrom, born 19 April 1761, died 30 October 1813, the daughter of John and Angelica (Storm) Ostrom. Solomon married twice again, the second wife, Martha (last name unknown) who died 23 July 1727, and third, Nancy (last name unknown). Other children were: Margaret, born 11 March 1762, married Samuel Raunals; Elizabeth Lydia, born 108

6 February 1874; married Henry Ostrom; Barton 2nd, born 10 January 1766, died 2 June 1833, married 24 November 1786 Hannah Ostrom, born 6 May 1769, died 6 September 1854; Mary, born 20 June 1767, married James Germond; Abraham G., born 28 May 1769, died 25 October 1852, married, first 20 February 1791 Eunice Jones, born 18 March 1767, died 18 January 1809, married, second, 5 January 1811 Sarah Thorne, died 6 September 1897 (called the widow Sellick) and Millicent, born 21 May 1771 who married Daniel Bedford.

Zacharias Flagler married for his third wife on 20 December 1773, Mary Allen, the daughter of William and Mary Allen. Of this union there were two children: Catherine, born 2 February 1775; and Isaac, born 15 September 1776.

The Solomon and Esther (Ostrom) Flagler, mentioned in a preceeding paragraph of this chapter, were the parents of the Reverend Isaac Flagler, to whose story Chapter Five was devoted. The continuity, therefore, of the Flagler narrative, altho interrupted, remains unbroken.

Family history research is a tedious and frequently fruitless task. The large families of former times complicate and cloud the picture. Sisters and brothers of one branch of a family often married the brothers and sisters of another. Moreover, competent genealogists state that little or no effort should be expended in attempting to trace a line back thru two or more female antecedents. That is to say, reliable information about the daughter of a daughter of a daughter is almost impossible to discover -- not because the distaff side was unimportant, but because data concerning the names, births, marriages, and deaths of females were simply not recorded.

Statistics, except for those directly concerned, make for dull reading. An apology is therefore offered for the multiplicity of detail shown in this chapter; the only excuse being that such may be of interest to some members of the 336 Dutchess County families, past and present, to whom Flaglers are related.

109

THE OTHER HOUSE AT THE UPPER LANDING

By Melodye Andros and Radford Curdy The Indians referred to it as Pondanakiren, or crooked place. To the Dutch it was the mouth of the Val-kill, and to subsequent traders, Poughkeepsie's Upper Landing. Here the community's founders are said to have stepped ashore,' and here too is the location of a house of some significance in the development of the city; a building still standing, which has gone unnoticed and almost unrecorded for well over a century.

Throughout every period of the development of the Upper Landing its success has been largely determined by a unique geological combination; a fast moving creek, emptying into the Hudson in a well protected cove, coupled with the potential for waterpower afforded by a natural waterfall adjacent to the river's shore. There was the further advantage of being located on the south side of a high eminence known to the Dutch as "slangen klip" or snake cliff. Today, it is referred to as Reynolds Hill and is the eastern terminus of the Poughkeepsie Railroad Bridge.

The Upper Landing's first historical mention was in 1686 with the granting of the Harmense and Sanders Patent in which Pondanakiren is mentioned as a geographical feature included in the land transfer. The patent was the first land grant to cover property within the original confines of Poughkeepsie. There is reason to believe that as early as 1699 Myndert Harmense had a sawmill at the mouth of the Val-ki11.2 In 1710 Leonard Lewis, a New York City merchant, purchased a tract of land from Harmense which included the landing property, the waterfall, and the privilege of erecting a mill or mills on the creek. Apparently Lewis proceeded to take advantage of that privilege for in 1738 a house and mill appear on a map executed by Henry Livingston Sr. The property was leased in 1740 to Anthony Yelverton, a Poughkeepsie carpenter, by Elizabeth Lewis, widow of Colonel Lewis.

Yelverton eventually purchased the property from the heirs of Mrs. Lewis.

Colonel Martin Hoffman, a Rhinebeck trader, became the owner of the parcel in 1755, and proceeded to erect a new mill on the creek which served the area until it was destroyed by fire in 1849. The newspaper account of the fire also contains a description of the 1755 landing area.3 Hoffman owned the property for only four years, selling in 1759 to Clear Everitt, who five years later conveyed the parcel to Queens county merchant Nathanial Seaman. Within two years Seaman sold the property to fellow Long Islanders George Sands, and Samuel and Maurice Smith. In an involved business arrangement, the property eventually passed to Henry Sands in 1768, and immediately he was joined in ownership by George and Richard Sands, his brothers.

In 1772 John Schenck Jr., a Somerset County New Jersey merchant became owner of the landing and mill. Prominent among the patriots of Poughkeepsie at the onset of the Revolution, Schenck served as chairman of the Committee of Safety and was Captain of the Poughkeepsie Militia Company.

About 1774 he apparently was joined in operation of the landing by his kinsman Paul Schenck, who became part owner of the property'in 1777.

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During the Revolution Schenck's Landing was a Continental Army and Eastern Commissary Department storing and forwarding depot. Paul Schenck was a commissary agent for both the Continental Army and the State of New York, and Revolutionary records contain many references to activities at the landing and orders for shipment of provisions to and from Schenck.

Walter Livingston, speaker of the Assembly of New York, is thought to have had an association with Schencks, possibly as a houseguest when the Legislature moved to Poughkeepsie in January of 1778. His father, Robert Livingston of the Manor, purchased the property later that year, and quickly transferred it to Walter. Livingston owned the property until 1796 and may have occupied the house during the period when Poughkeepsie was the Capital of New York, and he, speaker of the Assembly. In 1796, a year before Walter's death, the property was transferred to his son, Robert L. Livingston, then a young man. In 1799 Robert married the daughter of his cousin, Chancellor Robert R. Livingston of Clermont, and soon thereafter became the Chancellor's private secretary, in which capacity he aided in negotiating the Louisiana Purchase.

The Upper Landing was sold by Livingston in 1800 to Martin, Isaac and Robert Hoffman. The Hoffmans were instrumental in creating the diverse commercial area that evolved during the first half of the nineteenth century at the Upper Landing.

The dissipation of the exclusive Hoffman control and influence at the Upper Landing, which could be said to have begun officially in September, 1807, also marked the beginning of a thirty-five year period of intricate commercial transactions. The central figure in the maneuvering to make a "boom" of the Upper Landing was George Peters Oakley, son of Jesse Oakley of Beekman, and a natural born promoter. On September 16, 1807 the Hoffmans sold Oakley all underwater land south of the Fallkill, a nine acre parcel east of Water Street and south of Mill street which included the existing mills and other improvements, and a small parcel north of the Fallkill including a wharf and new store.4 At the time of the sale, the Hoffmans were either ailing financially and stagnant of the means or desire to take advantage of the snowballing economy, or perhaps quite simply, were more interested in taking advantage of Oakley's enthusiasm and energy than in risking failure themselves. The total consideration was $15,500, a tidy sum for the Hoffmans, who, fourteen days later, joined with Oakley in the firm of G.P. Oakley and Company, thus avoiding any risk while remaining financially involved.

Apparently soon after his purchase, Oakley commenced an ambitious reclamation project aimed at establishing wharves on both sides of the Fallkill, and in effect creating a new mouth to the creek.5 It appears from developments during the years following the purchase that Oakley just extended the land and docks on the north side of the Fallkill. It is possible that the development of new docks and land area on the south side of the creek mouth was a factor in Oakley's failure in 1819.

Within three years of the Hoffman-Oakley partnership, two new faces, James Reynolds and Aaron Innis, appeared on the Upper Landing scene, and their sometimes intricate mercantile involvements prohibit a clear understanding of the total picture of the landing during the period of its major growth.

117

On March 1, 1810 the Hoffman brothers and Oakley sold land to Reynolds on which he had already erected a dwelling.6 During the next year, 1811, by tradition, Reynolds established a freighting partnership with Innis, and by 1816 had also begun operation of a storehouse, built on land apparently reclaimed by Oakley on the north side of the creek, south of Mill Street and west of Water Street.7 In 1807, the Hoffmans, in financial trouble, took out a mortgage with their brother-in-law Samuel Thorn, apparently banking on Oakley's ability to "boom" the Upper Landing.

Evidently the risk did not pay off, because in 1819 Oakley and Company failed and the Hoffmans were forced to sell a major piece of their property to Reynolds, Innis, and J A C. Van Valkenberg to discharge the mortgage held by Thorn.'

During the years following 1820 Reynolds and Innis, taking advantage of the failure of Oakley and the final dissolution of the Hoffman holdings, through a series of property purchases and agreements with the principal creditors, the Middle District Bank, and others, came into full possession of the Upper Landing, including Oakley's mills east of Water Street. In 1821, Innis, Reynolds, and Nathan Gifford took over Oakley's mills and established the dyewood firm of Gifford, Reynolds, and Innis which lasted until 1837 when it became Gifford and Sherman. Later it became Gifford, Sherman and Innis.9 On June 10, 1831 the partnership of Reynolds, Innis and Van Valkenberg was dissolved and Reynolds apparently retired from active participation in business. A new freighting company, J.R. Cary and Company, in which Innis had an interest, was formed. Active operation of the storehouse and property interests of Reynolds was taken over approximately 1832 by his son William W. Reynolds.10 New names started appearing at the landing, notably Howland R. Sherman, Aaron Innis' sonin-law, a partner in the dyewood firm, and George Wilkinson, a partner in the firm of J.R. Cary and Company. Aside from the commercial activities centered around the mills, the days of prosperity at the Upper Landing however, would draw to a close within fifteen years with the completion of the Hudson River Railroad.

Today little or nothing remains of the vast commercial complex which made the Upper Landing one of the busiest areas on the river. The first structure at the landing was probably Harmense's sawmill, undoubtedly a crude utilitarian building.

Within sixty-five years the commercial operation had grown to include a dock, a dwelling, mill houses and storehouses. By the end of the eighteenth century there were two sawmills and a plaster of paris mill as well as an earlier grist mill. By this time a regular ferry service to New Paltz Landing had also been established.1i Some dozen or more buildings occupied the Upper Landing site at the height of the business expansion in the 1840's.

The majority of these buildings were commercial structures erected by the various proprietors of the landing. However, in addition to being an area of intense business activity, the Upper Landing also served as the residence of the various families associated with it. The Hoffman, Reynolds, Innis, Sherman, Arnold, and later the Wilkinson and Gifford families all established their homes within walking distance of their

118

respective businesses. Of all these structures that once stood on the Upper Landing, only two remain today.

The structure most commonly associated with the Upper Landing is the stone house with the brick facade known as the Hoffman residence, but often referred to as the "Central Hudson House." This building has long been recognized as historically and architectually significant and has been treated with some depth in both Dutch Houses and Landmarks of Dutchess County. The other extant structure has however, been consistently overlooked in all studies of the area.

James Reynolds, born 1777, came to Poughkeepsie about 1800 from North Kingston, Rhode Island. By occupation a ships carpenter, he apparently established himself early among the shipping community of Poughkeepsie, and in 1803 married Elizabeth Winans, a daughter of James Winans, prominent riverfront storekeeper. By 1810 Reynolds had become established at the Upper Landing, probably with capital realized from the estate of his wife's grandfather.12 Reynolds' first purchases at the Upper Landing, and the most significant in terms of the structure which was his residence, were made on March 1, 1810. One deed was from Martin, Robert, and Isaac Hoffman and G.P. Oakley, and the second was from Martin, Robert, Isaac, and Abraham Hoffman.13 By 1811 Reynolds is thought to have formed a partnership with Aaron Innis and they were said to have operated two sloops between the Upper Landing and New York City.14 About 1816, having obtained additional property, a storehouse was added to the business venture and from this small partnership sprang various succeeding firms, the last of which was William T. Reynolds and Company, one of the city's most prominent businesses. Before the partnership was dissolved, Reynolds and Innis had not only acquired other vessels and storehouses, but a sizeable portion of the Upper Landing operations, including wharves and mills. Reynolds was elected a director of the Poughkeepsie and New Paltz Ferry at its inception in 1819. By 1837 Reynolds and Innis had dissolved their partnership, with the mills going to Innis and the wholesale business being taken over by Reynolds' two sons William W. and James Jr. At the time of the 1810 purchase Reynolds had already completed the three story brick building which was his residence and is still standing today - the other house at the Upper Landing. Reynolds had apparently entered into some sort of agreement with the Hoffmans and Oakley allowing him to begin construction before the actual sale, and the final transfer covered only the land on which the building stood.

Evidence seems to support the belief that the house was constructed sometime after 1807 but before 1810.15 Sometime after the formation of the Reynolds-Innis partnership, the house was used as a grocery by the two men.16 In all liklihood the first floor served the business interests while Reynolds maintained his residence on the upper two floors.

Directories for the Village of Poughkeepsie, commencing in 1844, show that in that year and during the subsequent ten years Reynolds was occupying the house with his elder son William W. and his family.

The 1865 census gives a clear picture of the make-up of the household at that time. The brick structure was valued at $5,000 and enumerated in the census were William W. Reynolds, 119

his wife Amanda, daughters Martha and Mary, sons Clarence J., and William T. and his wife Louisa and son Harris S. There were in addition three servants.

The occupation of the house by the Reynolds family as an extended unit seems to have remained stable until the 1873 death of William W., by then the patriarch of the family. It was during this same period that the influence of the railroad was becoming more evident along the waterfront, and sections that were once residential were abandoned for more fashionable uptown areas. The Reynolds families all moved at this time to upper Mill Street with their business being relocated opposite the railroad station on Main Street.

By 1887 the building had become a tenement house.17 Its decline as a residence was thus inevitable and it was subsequently included in the Upper Landing tract purchased by the Poughkeepsie Gas Company. It was later taken over by Central Hudson Gas and Electric Company, and during the early twentieth century the building was converted to a garage and workshop, thereby eliminating almost all interior features.

A cinder covered parking lot is nearly all that remains today to harken back to the era when the Upper Landing was the busiest commercial center in Poughkeepsie. However, oddly enough, in a day when only a mere handful of the city's earliest buildings remain, here in a relatively small and protected area are to be found two of the most significant.

FOOTNOTES 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Reynolds, H.W., "How the City of Poughkeepsie.Was Founded," Thrift Messenger, Oct., 1937, Vol. XVI, No. II, pg. 3.

Deed, Sept. 9, 1710, Myndert Harmense to Leonard Lewis.

"The old mill next to the bridge was built in 1755 and raised on the day of Gen. Braddock's defeat. Mr. Davis (Richard Davis), assisted at the raising, which was not completed until the second day, and, for which, help had to be obtained from Fishkill and Rhinebeck. There was then nothing but a log bridge over the creek and a footpath leading from the mill to the lower landing..."

Poughkeepsie Eagle, March 3, 1849.

Dutchess County Clerk's Office, Deeds, Libre 20, pg. 43, 50.

Comparisons of the map of the homestead of the late Baltus Van Kleeck, May 1800, (Adriance Memorial Library, 0.T.P.D.), map of the flats in the Village of Poughkeepsie, March 7, 1815, (Oakley development map), (Dutchess County Historical Society 649), and the Hoffman, Livingston and Phillips Property map, 1834, (A.M.L., 0.T.P.D.), and deeds (D.C.C.O., Libre 20, pg. 50 and Libre 25, pg.

244), indicate how Oakley proposed to reclaim land at the mouth of the creek and what was actually accomplished in the way of that reclamation.

D.C.C.O., Deeds, Libre 61, pg. 587, 589.

Reynolds, H.W., Annals of a Century Old Business, (Poughkeepsie), (1919), (pg. 6).

D.C.C.O., Deeds, Libre 31, pg. 459, 462. (From 1816 to 1831 Capt. John C. Van Valkenberg had a financial interest in the firm of Reynolds and Innis.)

120

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

Reynolds, H.W., "Some Early Historical Facts About the 'Upper Landing' Poughkeepsie," Sunday Courier, Poughkeepsie, June 1, 1919.

Reynolds, H.W., Annals of a Century Old Business, (Poughkeepsie), (1919), (pg. 17).

"The ferry is now established upon a regular plan and travellers to the westward will find it much to their convenience to cross the river at the above place, (Upper Landing), as it shortens their journey and they may be assured they will meet with no detention."

Poughkeepsie Journal, May 1, 1798, pg. 3.

Platt, Edmund, Eagle's History of Poughkeepsie, Poughkeepsie, 1905, pg. 81.

D.C.C.O., Deeds, Libre 61 pg. 587, 589.

Reynolds, H.W., Papers, Capt. Abraham Chatterton's Reminiscences, 1874, A.M.L. D.C.C.O., Deeds, Libre 20, pg. 50, Libre 61, pg. 587, 589, a comparison of which shows that the house had to have been built after Sept. 1807 but before March 1810.

D.C.C.O., Deeds, Libre 31, pg. 459.

D.C.C.O., Maps, Sandborn, 1887.

121

WHEN THE CAPITAL OF NEW YORK CAME TO POUGHKEEPSIE - 1778

By William P. Mc Dermott As the year opened, many of the eighty-eight newly elected lawmakers were preparing to travel the wintery roads to begin an indefinite stay in the "Little Town"1 of Poughkeepsie. On December 15, 1777, Governor George Clinton had issued a Proclamation2 directing the legislators to convene in Poughkeepsie on January 5, 1778. Their arrival, together with assistants and family, would suddenly swell Poughkeepsie's population by nearly 10%. Dutchess County and Poughkeepsie already were feeling the pressure of population change. The threat of war had frightened many into moving north before the British attacked New York. And the attack when it came left many New York City and Long Island citizens homeless.

These refugees travelled by foot or horse up river to Dutchess.

Where to put all these people caused considerable concern.

But where to put the newly elected lawmakers, caretakers of a new state at war, presented an even more serious problem.

Where would they sleep? Where would they do their legislative homework? Reasonable accommodations were needed while the lawmakers toiled over state, local and even national problems. Poughkeepsie residents must have felt under seige when the lawmakers came in 1778. And the "Indifferent Accommodations"3 would barely be vacated in mid-November when 200 weary troops from Fishkill would take their place.

Who were these men, where did they come from? They were men of varied social and economic backgrounds from fourteen counties in the state. Farmers, mill owners, lawyers, merchants, tavernkeepers and men of wealth represented the people who had elected them for their first terms just a few months earlier. In accordance with the New York State Constitution, each county was represented by from two to ten assemblymen.4 The contingent of seven from Dutchess was the third largest in the state. Senatorial seats were filled on a district basis much as is the case at present. Six senators represented the Middle District comprised of Dutchess, Ulster and Orange counties. Many of the senators would become acquainted with Poughkeepsie as they returned each year during their four year term. A number of assemblymen would not see Dutchess again after their one year terms expired in 1778. Most of the legislators would stay only as long as the legislature was in session. Three meetings were held in 1778 from January 5 to April 4, June 9 to June 30 and October 13 to November 6.

While it is true that the first laws of the newly independent state of New York were passed during these meetings, the legislature had already been in session in the fall of 1777. Let's look back for a moment to review the events of the previous year. On March 12, 1777, after almost eight months, a committee of thirteen men appointed by the Convention of the Representatives of the State of New York presented their first draft of the new Constitution.5 This draft of New York's first Constitution was reviewed and revised by the Convention as a whole during the next five weeks.

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The final revised copy was approved on April 20, 1777, by every member of the Convention except Colonel Peter R. Livingston.6 Thus, New York had become an independent state with a Constitution to guide its lawmakers.

General George Clinton was elected the first governor of New York State on July 9, 1777, after the Council of Safety approved the election returns. This was exactly one year after New York had ratified the Declaration of Independence.7 Although the legislature was to meet on July 1, 1777, late election returns postponed its convening until August 1, 1777.

This initial delay was a harbinger of things to come. The legislature was to perform few functions that year. Two further delays initiated by the new governor because of public emergencies prevented the legislature from convening on August 1 and 20.8 Finally on September 1, 1777, some of the legislators met at Kingston. Ten more days elapsed before enough members were present to conduct business. Finally, on September 10, 1777, the legislature assembled in the courthouse at Kingston to hear Governor Clinton's first address.9 In it he described the military condition of the state in reassuring terms, pointing particularly to the military success at Bennington. As a result, he could stress the civil needs of the state. The state's financial condition required immediate attention. An improved election law and a revision of the militia law was recommended. But, contrary to expectations, military affairs were to delay that business. The first battle of Saratoga took place on September 19, 1777, and three weeks later, on October 7, 1777, the British were defeated.10 But another week had hardly passed when, on October 16, 1777, the British burned Kingston and its courthouse.11 Many of the legislators left Kingston.

As a result, no laws were passed and little other legislative business was conducted. Instead, a Council of Safety, formed by the remaining legislators, guided the government until the legislature could convene again.

The Governor apparently considered calling the legislature into special session, probably at Hurley in December, 1777, but John Morin Scott recommended against it.12 Finally, in consultation with the Council of Safety, Governor Clinton issued a proclamation directing the legislature to convene at Poughkeepsie on January 5, 1778.13 As had happened in the previous fall, the legislature was not able to conduct business because of poor attendance and, therefore, adjourned every day until January 15, 1778.14 It was to become a pattern in the early years for the legislature to begin late.

The delay in beginning is surprising in view of the tremendous task which lay ahead and the fact that little work had been undertaken in the previous fall.

The legislators finally assembled to begin their work.

On January 16, 1778, Governor Clinton made his second legislative address.15 In it he stressed the importance of accepting the "Articles of Confederation and perpetual Union of the United States of America." He referred to General George Washington's request that the two New York regiments receive adequate supplies. He also submitted important Resolutions which Congress had directed him to place before the New York Legislature. Turning from national matters to state affairs, he presented the legislature with copies of resolutions he had received from the State of MassachusettsBay. He pointed to the "laudable Measures they are pursuing 123

for sinking their public Debts, raising their Credit, and supporting the War in future."16 In his closing remarks in his five minute address, he was always brief, he referred to local military matters. Not only had Kingston been burned, but three principle defense forts, Clinton, Montgomery and Constitution near West Point, had been destroyed in that British attack on the Hudson. Those fortifications needed to be rebuilt or replaced. On the other hand, General Burgoyne's "total Defeat and Expulsion" at Saratoga had left the northern part of the state safe.17 After Clinton's address, the legislators met continuously through the first week in April. A great flurry of activity which began in late February resulted in the enactment of two thirds of all the laws passed in 1778 before the legislature left Poughkeepsie in April. Meetings were held again in June. After a summer recess, the Governor directed the legislature to convene for its Second Session at Poughkeepsie on October 1, 1778. And again, as if to duplicate their past performances, an insufficient number of legislators attended. As a result, meetings were adjourned daily until October 13, 1778, at which time sufficient numbers finally arrived to permit the session to begin. A joint meeting was held in the Senate Chamber to hear Governor Clinton's third address to the legislature.18 The legislators met from then until November 6, 1778.

Before the year closed, 54 laws were enacted. These laws reflected the frightening reality of the continuing military activity with the British scarcely 50 miles away.

Also, laws were urgently needed to clarify, administer and implement various aspects of the new Constitution. In the military sphere, strengthening the militia and the Continental army was necessary through increasing supplies and manpower. Legislation was also needed in the following spheres of government responsibility; taxation and finance, the welfare of the people, the question of spying and traitors, etc.

As the year progressed, the attention of the governor and the legislature seesawed between military and civil demands.

The legislators turned their attention immediately to the business of joining the United States. Although New York had ratified the Declaration of Independence on July 9, 1776, action on the acceptance of the Articles of Confederation was slow. Therefore, the first law enacted by the legislature was to authorize any two of its delegates to Philadelphia to ratify the Articles of Confederation.19 One might think this to be little productivity after three weeks in active session.

In fact, the legislators worked on many issues simultaneously.

Also, passage of any law required agreement by both the senate and the assembly. Even in those instances where minor differences existed, there were time delays while agreements were reached on the precise language of the law. Nevertheless, one month later, Governor Clinton expressed dissatisfaction with the lawmakers believing their productivity to be small for the period of time they had met. In fact, he expressed concern they might adjourn before the laws "necessary for the Peace and safety of the state were passed."20 Interestingly enough, an example of the delays referred to is apparent in the interaction between Governor Clinton and the legislature. A bill he received from the 124

legislature was returned to them with a few revisions he recommended. The legislature finally passed the bill one month later4 a period of time the Governor would have thought excessive.21 Let's review the laws passed immediately following the acceptance of the Article of Confederation. The laws listed below are numbered in the order in which they were passed.

2) Governor Clinton was permitted to issue stores, clothing and necessaries to the militia and the five New York regiments of Continental Troops.22 3) Commissioners were appointed for the purpose of "detecting and defeating conspiracies." Although this committee had been appointed by the Provincial Congress on September 21, 1776, the purpose of this law was to define its powers more clearly and describe custody procedures in the cases of those deemed dangerous to the state. Rewards leading to apprehension of individuals thought to be involved in conspiratorial activities were also defined. One note of special interest was the fact that individuals confined by order of these Commissioners were not permitted bail and judges were forbidden to offer bail.23 4) The charter of the City of Albany was recognized and confirmed. Because this charter was in effect before New York became an independent state the legislature acted to clarify its status. Essentially this was to clarify that the New York Constitution did not void any charters simply because they were not being implemented due to the "calamities of the war and general confusion.'24 5) Governor Clinton was allocated 10,000 pounds to pay expenses of the militia when they were called to duty.25 6) This law permitted "the distribution of sundry charitable donations to certain distressed inhabitants on the frontiers of this state," who were affected adversely by the "late campaign." This was the northern campaign which resulted in the defeat of the British under General Burgoyne. The campaign left homes and farms destroyed in its wake. Therefore, men were appointed in each of the northern counties of Albany, Charlotte, Saratoga and Tryon to distribute relief to the citizens who suffered losses 26 7) Individuals elected or appointed to public office at the state or local level were required by the enactment of this law to take an oath of allegiance recognizing New York's status as a state. Each individual was also required to promise to serve in his respective position to the best of his ability.27 8) All appointed assessors were discharged. On April 1, 1778, each precinct, town, etc. was required to elect from three to nine assessors. Powers and duties were described. Raising taxes to support the state and the war was essential. Perhaps it was thought that an elected assessor would be more acceptable to the people.28 125

9) The United States Congress issued a directive detailing how prisoners of the war were to be confined, fed and clothed, etc. The Governor was enabled by this law to carry out this responsibility.29 10) The embargo on the exportation of flour, in effect since November 11, 1777, as directed by the Council of Safety, was extended. Flour was an essential commodity to citizen and soldier. Concern about profiteering through exportation continued during this period. Therefore, the legislators acted.

Those who wished to export flour were required to obtain a special license issued only by the Governor and any two legislators.30 In fact, Clinton believed that the exported flour was reaching the British on Long Island.31 The review of the first ten laws reflects the work which needed immediate attention. It is also a good summation of some of the matters which affected the daily lives of people at that time. Was the defense system strong enough to protect the Hudson? Were neighbors who continued to be friendly to the British likely to be apprehended for questioning or even confinement? How high were taxes going to rise to support the war? Was the soldier's need for food going to affect the supply available to the citizen? Undoubtedly these and many more related questions were in the minds of Dutchess County inhabitants during this period of stress.

The relevance of these questions increased as the year progressed, as is reflected in the laws enacted following these first ten. Before the legislators closed for the year, laws were passed which included mandatory quota systems for the supply of shoes and stockings to soldiers.32 Also, the legislators guaranteed supplies such as forage, teams, horses, carriages, etc. for troops by authorizing certain appointed members in each town to take from inhabitants the quantity of these items needed.33 The welfare of the people also required attention. The legislators reacted to the spread of smallpox by forbidding innoculation in favor of quarantine. Innoculation was thought to be worse than the disease.34 An attempt at controlling prices was made through fixing wages of mechanics and prices of goods and commodities.35 However, the repeal of this law six months later was evidence of its failure.36 On the other hand, the families of soldiers serving three or more years were guaranteed "the necessaries of life at moderate prices."37 Funds to support the poor from New York City were allocated.

Dirck Brinckerhoff of Rombout was appointed Commissioner.38 The safety of the state, especially with British sympathizers everywhere, was an important concern. Punishment for treason, often death under British law, was thought to be unreasonably harsh. The legislators modified the conditions for which such punishment should apply, but retained the principle of the law.39 Also, persons whose allegiance to New York State was uncertain and who lived near army posts such as Fishkill, were removed from their homes and transported to less strategic areas.4° Taxes were raised to pay night watchmen to guard Dutchess and other counties from surprise attacks.41 126

It goes without saying that the need for troops was ever present. The draft law defined draft eligibility as any man between the ages of 16 and 50. Included in this law was the privilege of paying a substitute to serve one's draft obligation.4' Men were raised for the defense of the Hudson43 and to fill the ranks of the five New York State Continental Battalions.44 And, of course, the ever present concern about money was very much in evidence in the laws passed in 1778. Taxes were imposed on all lands, the improvements thereon and also personal estates.45 Other fund raising laws permitted the inhabitants of Ulster County to raise money by lottery for the purpose of rebuilding the courthouse destroyed when the British raided Kingston on October 16, 1778.46 Also, individuals were permitted to lend money to the state to be repaid with interest at a later date. Commissioners to receive money were named in each precinct. The Commissioners in Dutchess were: Paul Schenck - Poughkeepsie; Roeloff Schenck - Beekman and Rumbout; Matthias B. Miller - Charlotte; Everardus Bogardus - Rynbeck; Rufus Herrick - Amenia; Isaac I. Talman - Pawling and Southeast; Lewis Graham - Northeast.47 New York State was required to pay $200,000 to the United States Treasury as its share of five million dollars the states were directed to pay to comply with a resolution passed in the Congress of the United States in the previous year.48 Apparently collecting money owed to the state was a serious problem because it required a law which allowed a strong penalty, 15% interest, per year to be levied against delinquent accounts.49 A number of administrative matters were settled; for example, election procedures. The New York State Constitution defined the right to vote as that right of any male who owned property valued at 20 pounds or whose annual rent as a tenant equalled 40 shillings. However, a further distinction was made. Those who owned property valued at 100 pounds or more were permitted to vote for the governor, lieutenant governor, senators and all other state and local officials. Those whose property was valued at less than 100 pounds were permitted to vote for all state and local of except governor, lieutenant governor and senators.5° Although it. is not clearly stated, owning property may not have been required in order to vote for local officials. "Inhabitants" without mention of property ownership were permitted to vote for assessors.51 Local town records specifically mention "inhabitants" as voting for assessor.52 A new law detailed such items as dates of elections, the procedures of inspectors and poll clerks, election procedures, oaths administered, rights of refugees from New York City and Long Island, method for filing and recording, etc. The distinction between voting viva voce for senators and assemblymen and the secret ballot required when voting for governor and lieutenant governor was described in more detail than had appeared in the Constitution.53 When the senate and the assembly agreed on a bill it was sent to the Council of Revision for its approval. This body could veto any bill presented to it. However, when a vetoed bill was returned to the legislature a two-thirds vote in each house could overturn the veto, after which the 127

bill became law. The Council of Revision was incorporated into the Constitution to protect the people from the enactment of laws inconsistent with the public good.54 The members of this council were the Governor, Chancellor and the judges of the Supreme Court. In 1778, Governor George Clinton presided with Chancellor Robert R. Livingston, Chief Justice John Jay and Judges Robert Yates and John Sloss Hobart. There were several vetoes in 1778. Some bills were vetoed because language changes, procedural revisions or other administrative factors were needed. Four issues received more substantive attention; a) oaths of allegiance, b) exportation of flour, c) election law, and d) extraordinary tax on wealth.55 Let's look in on the legislature to appreciate more fully their manner of proceeding. Simply gathering together to begin business sometimes became a major hurdle. Adjournments to await the appearance of enough members to form a quorum occurred each time the lawmakers convened. Also, absences on Mondays often postponed meetings.56 Let's look at the assembly first. Thirty three members constituted a quorum.

A detailed examination of the meetings during the period January 5 to April 4, 1778, reveals many absent assemblymen.

The seat of one of the absentees, Abraham Jones from Richmond County (Staten Island), was finally vacated on June 8, 1778, because Jones had been "with the enemy".57 Although the Journals of the Assembly do not record attendance, votes by name were taken on 21 of the fifty six days the assembly met.

Multiple votes occurred on some days so that, in all, votes were recorded 35 times during this period. It is possible that those whose names do not appear were silent during voting, however, this is too unlikely to be plausible. Let's look at the issue of attendance more closely. On only two occasions did the number of voters reach forty (40 & 41 to be precise). Typically, the total number of votes ranged between 35 & 37. The average attendance was thirty six, a number which barely exceeds the minimum for a quorum. About twenty eight men appeared regularly. The remaining twenty five who came from time to time supplied the other eight members to reach the average attendance of thirty six. The result was that 75% of the time the quorum was exceeded by a slim three votes or fewer. Of the assemblymen from Dutchess, Egbert Benson, Dirck Brinckerhoff, Anthony Hoffman, Jacobus Swartwout and probably Gilbert Livingston were among the regulars. Andrew Morehouse was quite irregular in his attendance and John Schenk did not attend sessions in 1778.

His presence at two meetings in 1777, September 30 and October 2, was near the time of his father's death in New Jersey.

Perhaps he returned at that time to attend to his father's business. He is found in New Jersey in governmental service by 1780.58 Much of what has been said about the assembly applies to the senate. In the Votes and Proceedings of the Senate, there is a record of attendance for each meeting.59 Of the twenty four senators elected, there were never more than fifteen in attendance. Many of the meetings convened with the minimum number (12) required for a quorum. What a dilemna would have been created had the senate decided to expel Colonel John Williams from Washington County earlier.60 His presence completed the quorum on several occasions. Of the twenty two senators who appeared, eight attended regularly.

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The remaining fourteen members supplied the four to six members who filled the typical attendance of twelve to fourteen.

Zephaniah Platt, one of the two Middle District senators who came from Dutchess, attended regularly. On the other hand, Jonathon Landon from Dutchess attended fewer than half of the meetings during this period.

Why all this attention to the number of lawmakers in attendance and why all this concern about a quorum? New York was generally believed to be critical to the success of the Revolution. The Hudson was a key waterway. One would have thought fear of another British attack would have hastened the lawmakers to pass laws which would have rebuilt defenses, supplied troops, and protected the other unoccupied areas of New York. Hardly three months had passed since Kingston was burned and the Hudson fortifications destroyed. Also, this was the first session of a now free and independent New York.

Where were those lawmakers who were anxious to make the dream of independence a reality? One would have expected these men to reach for the chance to create history through constructing the economic, social and administrative future of the new state. One possibility which shouldn't be overlooked is that other duties such as military duties took priority. That explanation certainly may have been true in some instances, but probably accounted for the absence of only a few. Searching for evidence to explain other absences seems too elusive and laborious at this moment, but might be a worthy task at some future time if one were to attempt to understand these puzzling absences.

When in session it appears that meetings went relatively smoothly. Many of the votes taken in these two legislative houses reflect only that a resolution or bill had passed after a period of discussion.61 In most instances when the bill had reached this stage of development a consensus had already been reached. Therefore, in most instances the ayes and nays were not recorded. The votes which are recorded by name reflect voting on specific aspects or clauses of a bill.

It may be possible to glean from these votes some hint of each lawmaker's political philosophy. The following is a brief note about procedure which shows how consensus may have been accomplished. At the first stage, a matter which was brought before the legislators in either house was assigned to a committee appointed by the President of the senate or the Speaker in the assembly. This committee brought back its report in the form of a resolution, when possible, for an initial reading. After a period of discussion the matter was returned to committee. After some revisions were made a second reading took place. Finally after a third reading the bill was assigned a time when a formal vote was taken. It is these final votes which were not recorded, suggesting that the bill was generally acceptable when it reached that stage in its development.

Although the legislators' year ended much as it had begun, an air of optimism replaced the tension which had opened the year. Certainly, many legislators were absent during the final meeting period, October 13 - November 6, and, as the year ended, similar laws to supply the army, care for the poor, permit a night watch, etc. were enacted. But something had changed. Hopefulness must have been in the minds of many.

France had formed an alliance with the Americans in 1778 and 129

her help in the war would prove to be invaluable. The note of optimism was expressed most clearly by George Clinton when he was informed in mid 1778 that Britain's Lord North had sent peace commissioners to offer the Americans everything they had asked for since 1765. He declared, "Lord North is two years late with his political manoeuvre."62 Notes and Bibliography 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.

24.

25.

26.

27.

28.

29.

30.

31.

32.

33.

34.

35.

Clinton, George, Public Papers of George Clinton, First Governor of New York, 1777-1795, 1801-1804. Edited

by Hugh Hastings and J.A. Holden. 10 vols. New York and Albany: State of New York, 1899-1914, vol. IV, pg. 382. Hereafter cited as G.C. Ibid., II, 578.

Ibid., IV, 382.

New York State Constitution 1777, article IV. Flick, Alexander C., The American Revolution in New York.

Albany: The University of the State of New York, 1926, pg. 83-85. Hereafter cited as Flick.

Ibid., 85.

Ibid., 81.

Ibid., 94.

Votes and Proceedings of the Senate of the State of New York at their first Session, 1777-1778. Fishkill: Samuel Louden, September 10, 1777, pg. 4. Hereafter cited as Votes of Sen. Flick, 165.

G.C. II, 457.

Ibid., 532.

Ibid., 578.

Votes and Proceedings of the Assembly of the State of New York. Poughkeepsie: John Holt, January 15, 1778. Hereafter cited as Votes of Assembly. Also Votes of Sen. January 15, 1778.

Votes of Sen. January 16, 1778.

G.C. II, 677.

Ibid., 677.

Votes of Sen. October 13, 1778.

New York Laws of the State of New York 1777-1800. Albany: Weed, Parsons & Co., 1886-87, 1st session, chap. 1.

Hereafter cited as Laws.

G.C. II, 836.

Lincoln, Charles Z., Messages from the Governors. Vol. II, 1777-1822. Albany: J.B. Lyon Co., State Printers, 1909, pg. 21.

Laws, 1st sess., chap. 2.

Ibid., chap. 3.

Ibid., chap. 4.

Ibid., chap. 5.

Ibid., chap. 6.

Ibid., chap. 7.

Ibid., chap. 8.

Ibid., chap. 9.

Ibid., chap. 10.

G.C. II, 836 & 841.

Laws, 1st sess., chap. 13.

Ibid., chap. 29.

Ibid., chap. 36.

Ibid., chap. 34.

130

36.

37.

38.

39.

40.

41.

42.

43.

44.

45.

46.

47.

48.

49.

50.

51.

52.

53.

54.

55.

56.

57.

58.

59.

60.

61.

62.

Ibid., 2nd sess., chap. 2.

Ibid., 1st sess., chap. 45.

Ibid., chap. 38.

Ibid., chap. 19.

Ibid., chap. 27.

Ibid., 2nd sess., chap. 1 & 6.

Ibid., 1st sess., chap. 15.

Ibid., chap. 22.

Ibid., chap. 28.

Ibid., chap. 17.

Ibid., chap. 32.

Ibid., chap. 18.

Ibid., chap. 23.

Ibid., chap. 40.

New York State Constitution 1777, article VII. Laws, 1st sess., chap. 8.

Records of Crum Elbow Precinct. Edited by Franklin D. Roosevelt. Collections of Dutchess County Historical Society, 1940, vol. VII, pg. 94.

Laws, 1st sess., chap. 16.

New York State Constitution 1777, article III. Lincoln, op. cit., pg. 21, 26, 34 & 39.

Votes of Sen., & Votes of A. - various dates from January 5 to April 4, 1778.

Hutchins, S.C., Civil List and forms of Government of the Colony and State of New York. Albany: Weed, Parsons & Co., 1867, pg. 130.

Personal communication from Melodye Andros.

Votes of Sen. - various dates from January 5 to April 4, 1778.

Hutchins, op. cit., pg. 108.

Votes of A. & Votes of Sen. - various dates from January 5 to April 4, 1778.

Spaulding, E. Wilder, His Excellency George Clinton.

New York: The Macmillan Co., 1938, pg. 130.

131

CONFLICT AND TRANSITION: POUGHKEEPSIE, CAPITAL OF NEW YORK STATE, 1778

By Melodye Andros and Radford Curdy This year marked the 200th anniversary of Poughkeepsie's becoming the Capital of the State of New York and this occasion was marked by an exhibition sponsored by the Dutchess County Historical Society at Mid-Hudson Arts and Science Center, Old City Hall, Poughkeepsie. The exhibit opened August 5th and closed October 29th, and included an audiovisual presentation depicting the complexion of the City and the County at that time.

Manuscripts and prints relating to various Dutchess County legislators, a pair of pistols owned by Assemblyman Derick Brinckerhoff, John Jay's copy of "The Votes of the Continental Congress," Walter Livingston's silver snuff box, and one of the lintel stones from the Van Kleeck house were among the items on display. Three scenes were created; one depicting the life-style of a tradesman, another a well-todo family's parlor, and the third a simulated legislative chamber of the period.

Poughkeepsie became Capital of New York by proclamation of December 15, 1777. The first official body to meet in the Village was the Assembly which was ordered to convene on January 5, 1778. The Assembly probably met in the Court House, with Walter Livingston presiding as Speaker. The Senate convened, also undoubtedly in the Court House, on January 15, 1778. Lt. Gov. Pierre Van Cortlandt was its President. Both the Assembly and Senate continued sessions until April 4 when they adjourned until June 22nd. They continued to meet until June 30th. The second session of the Legislature convened October 13, 1778 and lasted until November 6, 1778. The second part of the session was held from January 27 to March 17, 1779.

Gov. George Clinton had already established his residence here when the legislative sessions opened. The State's first Attorney General, Egbert Benson, took office at Poughkeepsie January 15, 1778. The first Secretary of State, John Morin Scott, took office March 13, 1778. The State Treasurer, Gerard Bancker, was appointed April 1, 1778. All exercised their duties from offices at Poughkeepsie. The State Auditor, Comfort Sands, had an office at Poughkeepsie, and State Commissary Agents operated from the Village. The second Council of Safety, with Evert Bancker as President, held their sessions here. The Supreme Court, John Jay and Richard Morris, Chief Justices, met at Poughkeepsie. Robert Yates and John Sloss Hobart were Puisne Justices. The Chancellor of the State at the time was Robert R. Livingston.

Other official state bodies which met at Poughkeepsie included the Commissioners of Conspiracies, the Commissioners of Sequestration, the Commissioners of Forfeitures, and the Council of Appointments.

Little has been previously known about some of the legislators from Dutchess County who served in this session.

One of the achievements of the Society's exhibit was to amass concise biographies of these eleven men.

Jonathan Landon, 1743-1815, of Northeast Precinct, married Isabella Graham. Member of the New York Provincal Congresses and Convention, 1775-1777. Member of the Commit132

tee on Lead, Salt and Gun Flints, 1775. Major, Sixth Regiment, Dutchess County Militia, 1775 and Lieut. Colonel in 1778. Member second New York Council of Safety, 1777-1778.

State Senator, 1778. In charge of lead ore and lead mines in Nine Partners.

Andrew Morehouse, 1726-1801, of Pawling Precinct, married 1, Phoebe Hurd; married 2, Sarah Sherrell. Born in Saybrook, Connecticut, but moved in early life to Pawling Precinct.

Tavern keeper. Member of the Pawling Minute Company, 1775.

Colonel Third Regiment Dutchess County Militia. Assemblyman, 1778-1779. Justice of the Peace.

Dr. Joseph Crane, Jr., 1722-1800, of Southeast Precinct, married Esther Belden. Born in Windham, Connecticut, but moved to Long Island and just prior to the Revolution to Southeast, now Putnam County, N.Y. Delegate to the Fourth New York Provincial Convention. Surgeon of Colonel Andrew Morehouse's Third Regiment, Dutchess County Militia. Assemblyman, 17781779.

Jacobus Swartwout, 1734-1827, of Rombout Precinct, married Aaltje Brinckerhoff. Captain in the French and Indian War. Coroner of Dutchess County, 1769. Deputy chairman Rombout Committee of Safety. Colonel of the Rombout Minutemen, 1775. Colonel of the First Regiment, Dutchess County Militia. Assemblyman, 1777. Senator, 1784. Member of the Committee for Detecting Conspiracies, 1777. Brig. General of Militia, 1779-1794. Delegate to the New York Constitutional Convention, 1788.

Zephaniah Platt, 1735-1807, of Poughkeepsie Precinct, married 1 Hannah Davis; married 2 Mary Van Wyck. Member New York Provincial Congress. Member New York Council of Safety.

State Senator 1777-1783. Member New York Constitutional Convention, 1788. Colonel Dutchess County Militia, 1779.

Judge of the County Court, 1781-1795. Removed to Plattsburgh, N.Y., of which he was one of the founders, in 1798.

Samuel Dodge, 1730-1807, of Poughkeepsie Precinct, married Helena Amerman in 1753. Chairman of the Dutchess County Committee of Safety, Lieutenant of the 2nd New York Line and the 5th New York Line in the Revolution. Taken prisoner at Fort Montgomery in 1777. Author, scholar, astronomer. Commissioner of Forfeiture for the Middle District of New York. Assemblyman 1778-1779. Justice of the Peace, Dutchess County, 1781.

Gilbert Livingston, 1742-1806, of Poughkeepsie Precinct, married Catherine Crannell. Member Dutchess County Military Committee and the Dutchess County Committee of Safety, 1775.

Member of all the Provincial Congresses and Convention, 17751777. Member Committee of Correspondence. Assemblyman, 17771778, 1788-1789. Surrogate of Dutchess County, 1778-1787.

Delegate to the New York Constitutional Convention, 1788.

County Clerk, 1804. Member second New York State Board of Regents. Presidential elector in 1800 for Thomas Jefferson.

Poughkeepsie lawyer and partner of Bartholomew Crannell and later the jurist James Kent.

Egbert Benson, 1746-1833, of Rhinebeck Precinct. Lawyer of considerable distinction. Member of the New York Committee of Safety. First Attorney-General of New York, 1777. Assemblyman, 1777-1778. Member of the Continental Congress, 17841788. Member of the New York Constitutional Convention, 1788.

Congressman, 1789-1793, 1813-1815. State Supreme Court Justice, 1794, 1802. U.S. Circuit Court Judge, 1802. Regent of the 133

University of the State of New York, 1789-1802. Author.

First president of the New-York Historical Society, 1817.

Anthony Hoffman, 1739-1790, of Rhinebeck Precinct, married Mary Rutgers. Provincial loan officer for Dutchess County before the Revolution. Member of several military committees at the start of the war. Colonel in the Revolution. Member of the first, third and fourth Provincial Congresses. Assemblyman 1777-1778. Regent of New York University, 1784-1787. Supervisor of Rhinebeck, 1781-1785. Merchant, mill and ferry owner in Rhinebeck Precinct.

Derick Brinckerhoff, 1721-1789, of Rombout Precinct, married Geertje Wyckoff. Member of the Provincial Assembly, 1768-1775. Delegate to the first Provincial Congress, Colonel of the Second Regiment, Dutchess County Militia. Assemblyman, 1777 and served until 1787 with the exception of two sessions.

Chairman of the Rombout Committee of Safety, 1775. Host to George Washington, John Adams, Lafayette and a host of the leaders of the Revolution. Farmer and mill owner.

John Schenck, Jr., 1748-1784, of Poughkeepsie Precinct, married Ann Vanderspiegel. Member of the Third Provincial Congress and the Fourth Provincial Convention. Secretary of the Poughkeepsie Committee of Safety, 1776. Major, Second Regiment, Dutchess County Minutemen, 1776. Assemblyman, 17771778. Merchant at Poughkeepsie, 1772-1778. Continental Army commissary agent at Poughkeepsie.

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DUTCHESS COUNTY TELLS ITS STORY WITH A MULTI-MEDIA DISPLAY

By Chris Farlekas (From the Times Herald Record, Middletown, N.Y.) Friday, September 29, 1979 POUGHKEEPSIE - America celebrated its bicentennial birthday in 1976 with all the hoopla and fireworks the great day demanded. But the matter of independence didn't begin or end on that day.

The Revolutionary War continued several years past the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Last year, Kingston had its moment in the sun as it remembered itself as the birthplace of the state legislature.

Plans are being drawn up for a bicentennial celebration next year of Joseph Brant's raid on Port Jervis and Deerparkand following that, the New Windsor Cantonment will reenact Washington's last gathering of troops. His refusal of the crown and the creation of the Order of the Purple Heart will be prominently portrayed.

Into this triple-decker patriotic sandwich, there is a little heralded - but excellent - display at the Mid-Hudson Arts and Science Center in downtown Poughkeepsie at 228 Main Street.

It's titled "Dutchess County 1778: Year of Trial, Year of Transition."

In a carefully presented series of displays, both behind glass and out in the open, the Dutchess County Historical Society has focused on this crucial year in the county's history.

There are six, life-sized exhibits which incorporate painted figures and actual objects of that time, each showing an aspect of life in Poughkeepsie in 1778. Against the wall, enclosed in glass and well lit, are pistols, newspapers and other artifacts of 200 years ago, when Poughkeepsie was the state capital.

But what makes the exhibit really come alive is a slide show that tells the history of that year.

In 1777, the British burned Kingston, forcing the legislature to find another home. Poughkeepsie was picked, and on Jan. 9, 1778, a sufficient number of legislators arrived to make up a quorum and get business under way.

It was a hard winter. Washington and his men were suffering at Valley Forge, reduced as one said to drinking soup "full of burnt leaves and dirt."

Many of the insights in the 20-minute slide show are augmented by an excellent booklet on the subject given each visitor, written by Jonathan Clark of the nearby Vassar College history department.

Together, the words and pictures paint a familiar story that graphically illustrates the adage, the more things change, the more they remain the same.

Two hundred years ago - just as today - there were heroes and villains. People complained that taxes were too high. While soldiers were suffering at Valley Forge, fat cat merchants made a killing in the market.

There was even a strike. Ships' carpenters had been brought to Poughkeepsie to build two frigates authorized by the Continental Congress. According to Prof. Clark, "They 135

Life-sized exhibit showing Poughkeepsie life in 1778.

136

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went on strike, demanding that their pay be raised from eight to 11 shillings and a half-pint of rum per day (rum being the major fringe benefit for 18th Century working men).

Their demands were met."

Clark says Poughkeepsie was an over-crowded, boisterous village of 2,000 during the Revolution. In the years before the Revolution, a major tenant riot occurred and hundreds of farmers marched on Poughkeepsie, overwhelmed the sheriff, and released one of their fellow rioters from jail. In the aftermath, Clark says the sheriff advertised for men to assist in the execution of one Samuel Prendergast, who had been condemned to death for his part in the riot. But no one came forward to help - and Prendergast never did hang.

Clark adds the people of Dutchess were factious people.

When the break with England came, it also broke many families. Father and sons (sometimes daughters too) stood on opposite sides of the freedom question.

Here's one example Clark gives. Bartholomew Crannel was an outspoken Tory; his two daughters stood just as firmly for independence - and they let it be known where they stood. He said tradition has it they affronted their father by wearing aprons embroidered with the slogans "Liberty" and "No Tea" in his presence.

Clark writes, "Col. Graham discovered that his regiment simply refused to march. Zephaniah Platt reported he managed to raise three companies of militia, but that none of the privates were willing to fight. . . many of them would rather farm."

An interesting character of the period is Melancton Smith, the 34-year-old sheriff. He was in charge of law and order and on June 3 was paid 15 pounds to hang three men.

He also ordered secret ballots for the first time. Before this, voting was normally done by voice. Clark said voice voting meant everyone standing around the sheriff knew how each person voted. To land the office, he says candidates resorted to various kinds of inducement. "In Virginia, the most common kind was liquid refreshment. When George Washington ran for a seat in the House of Burgesses in 1758, he supplied 160 gallons of liquor for 391 voters. Washington won."

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APPOINTED HISTORIANS OF DUTCHESS COUNTY

COUNTY HISTORIAN Radford B. Curdy County Office Building Poughkeepsie, New York 12601

CITY HISTORIANS BEACON Robert Spencer Barnett 18 Church Street Beacon, N.Y. 12508

POUGHKEEPSIE Elizabeth I. Carter 40 Randolph Avenue Poughkeepsie, N.Y. 12603

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PRESIDENTS OF HISTORICAL SOCIETIES IN THE TOWNS OF DUTCHESS COUNTY AMENIA George Phillips North Road Amenia, N.Y. 12501

NORTHEAST Stanley Smith Center Street Millerton, N.Y. 12546

BEACON Ludwig Ruf 14 Montfort Road Wappingers Falls, N.Y. 12590

PLEASANT VALLEY Forrest Romero Cedar View Road Pleasant Valley, N.Y. 12569

BEEKMAN Mrs. Robert Kendall RD 1 Hopewell Junction, N.Y. 12533

POUGHKEEPSIE (Bowdoin Park Historical Assoc.)

Seton Grundy 25 Main Street New Hamburg, N.Y. 12560

CLINTON Dr. William McDermott Clinton Corners, N.Y. 12514 DOVER Mrs. Richard Reichenberg, Jr. McCarthy Road Dover Plains, N.Y. 12522 EAST FISHKILL Bob Swearingen P. O. Box 1776 Hopewell Junction, N.Y. 12533 FISHKILL Louis Ahlbach 22 Chelsea Ridge Drive Wappingers Falls, N.Y. 12590 HYDE PARK (Historical Association) Clifford Buck Salt Point Turnpike Salt Point, N.Y. 12578

QUAKER HILL & VICINITY Mrs. N. Edward Mitchell Wilkinson Hollow Road Pawling, N.Y. 12564 RED HOOK (Egbert Benson Historical Soc.) John Losee RD 2, Box 178 Red Hook, N.Y. 12571 RED HOOK (UPPER) Mrs. John Myers Albany Post Road Red Hook, N.Y. 12571 RHINEBECK Colton C. Johnson 46 Livingston Street Rhinebeck, N.Y. 12572 STANFORD Mrs. Archie Lawson Stanfordville, N.Y. 12581

HYDE PARK (Town of, Historical Society) Mrs. Clifford M. Smith Deer Hill Road Hyde Park, N.Y. 12538

UNION VALE Donald Marshall Canby Road Verbank, N.Y. 12585

LAGRANGE Franklin G. Knapp Dogwood Trail LaGrangeville, N.Y. 12540

WAPPINGERS FALLS John R. Ferris Box 174 Wappingers Falls, N.Y. 12590

LITTLE NINE PARTNERS Mrs. Matthew Netter Pine Plains, N.Y. 12567

WASHINGTON Charles Tripp P.O. Box 592 Millbrook, N.Y. 12545 140

TOWN HISTORIANS

AMENIA Catherine Leigh Amenia, N.Y. 12501

FISHKILL (Village) Margaret Somers Rapalje Road Fishkill, N.Y. 12524

BEEKMAN Lee Eaton Clove Valley Road Hopewell Junction, N.Y.

12533

CLINTON Francis Van Auken Zipfelbarrack Road Rhinebeck, N.Y. 12572 and Helena Van Vliet Staatsburg, N.Y. 12580

DOVER Doris Dedrick Nellie Hill Acres Dover Plains, N.Y.

EAST FISHKILL Henry Jackson Stormville, N.Y.

HYDE PARK Beatrice Fredricksen 43 Circle Drive Hyde Park, N.Y. 12538

LAGRANGE Emily Johnson Moore Road Pleasant Valley, N.Y.

MILAN Clara Losee Rt. 199 Red Hook, N.Y.

12571

12522 NORTHEAST Chester Eisenhuth Simonds Street Millerton, N.Y. 12546 12582 PAWLING Ronald Peck South Quaker Hill Road Pawling, N.Y. 12564

FISHKILL (Town) Willa Skinner Charlotte Road Fishkill, N.Y. 12524

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12569

TOWN HISTORIANS

PINE PLAINS Bernice L. Grant Pine Plains, N.Y.

12567

PLEASANT VALLEY Gail Crotty Quaker Hill Road Pleasant Valley, N.Y.

POUGHKEEPSIE Ruth Sebeth 22 Stuart Drive Poughkeepsie, N.Y.

STANFORD Elinor Beckwith Stanfordville, N.Y.

12581

TIVOLI Joan Navins 2 Friendship Street Tivoli, N.Y. 12582

12569

UNION VALE Irena Stolarik 18 Smith Road LaGrangeville, N.Y.

12603

12540

RED HOOK (Town) John Winthrop Aldrich "Rokeby" Barrytown, N.Y. 12507

WAPPINGER (Town) Connie Smith RD 3, Route 376 Wappingers Falls, N.Y.

12590

RED HOOK (Village) Rosemary E. Coons 34 Garden Street Red Hook, N.Y. 12571

WAPPINGERS FALLS Caroline P. Wixson 86 East Main Street Wappingers Falls, N.Y.

12590

RHINEBECK DeWitt Gurnell 38 Mulberry Street Rhinebeck, N.Y. 12572

WASHINGTON Louise Tompkins Dutchess County Infirmary Millbrook, N.Y. 12545

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