It would appear, however, that the ore was not found here in sufficient abundance ; for, at a vast expense, we find it subsequently transported from the Queensburg mine, in the forest of Dean, Rockland county, by the route of King's ferry, and melted in this furnace. But even in Rockland County the ore was not found in sufficient quantities to render it of any importance, so that prior to the Revolution, the enterprise was wholly abandoned, and the property sold to Mr. John Ramsay whose daughter married John Cruger, father of John P. Cruger. The furnace woods are now held by various proprietors. Mr. Benjamin Odell occupies the Ramsay residence and mill. The mansion house of the late Hon. Nicholas Cruger, who for several years represented this county in assembly, is delightfully situated near the land-

184 HISTORY OF THE COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER

ing commanding from its elevated position, most extensive views of the river; and is now occupied by his widow.

Croton village in the lower part of this town is situated on the north side of the river of that name near its confluence with the Hudson. At the intersection of the New York and Albany Post Road with the road leading to the railroad station is the Protestant Episcopal church of St. Augustine. Episcopal services were also performed at the village of Croton, in this parish, by Mr. Wetmore in 1756, by the Rev. Mr. Dibble in 1761, and by the Rey. Mr. Punderson in 1763, who says, "that he preached a lecture there, the people giving a cheerful attendance, &c."