For the erection of these forts and strongholds, Van der Donck informs us, that the Indians usually selected a situation on the side of a steep hill, near a stream or river, which is difficult of access except from the water, and inaccessible on every other side, with a level plain on the crown of the hill, which they enclose with a strong stockade work in a singular manner. " Near their plantations they also frequently erect small works to secure their wives and children against the sudden irruption of the small marauding parties of their enemies. When their castles and forts are constructed according to their rude custom, they consider the same very safe and secure places. "a

The vestiges of a military redoubt at present occupy the summit of the adjoining hill, commonly called Jones' hill. This elevated spot commands the valley of Sleepy Hollow, Tarrytown, and splendid prospects of the Hudson River.

In 1680, the Indian sachem Ghoharius, with the consent of his brother Weskora, for a certain sum of wampum and other goods, released unto Frederick Philipse a large strip of land, lying on each side of the Pocanteco River, for which they acknowledged to have received full satisfaction. This sale was ratified before the Governor of the province, at Fort James, in New York, and subsequently confirmed to Frederick Philipse by royal patent, the same year. The patentee yielding and paying, therefor, yearly unto his Royal Highness, the Duke of York and Albany, a quit rent of one bushel of winter wheat, etc.