Church, (Beechwood.)

county poor house, or hospital, an incorporated and endowed institution for the afflicted and indigent. Its officers consist of three superintendents, (who are nominated by a board of county supervisors,) a keeper, a physician and teacher. The buildings are extensive and principally constructed of stone. Its inmates, at present, number one hundred and eighty-four. There are accomodations for three hundred, if necessary. To the south-east of the poor-house, lies the Paulding Homestead farm.

Mrs. J. E. See related the following anecdote about her uncle, Col. Hammond : -- He lived in the first house on the right-hand side of the road leading from Tarrytown to White Plains, just beyond the brick school, now known as D. C. Reynolds' property, directly west of Mr. Bonnar's farm, and adjoining it. The house used to have tall pine trees, and very old box borders in front ; it is now owned by Mr. Kingsland. A part of the American army under his command had been laying in front on the fine plateau. General Washington came one day to con-

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HISTORY OF THE COUNTY WESTCHESTER.

suit with him, and stayed quite late in the evening, after which he returned to his head-quarters near White Plains. The army had also been withdrawn, and the Colonel was left alone for the night. Just before day-break the Colonel's wife was awakened by a heavy, rumbling noise, and she awoke her husband ; but he thought it was only distant thunder. Soon it became louder and louder, and then it stopped directly opposite their door. This was followed by loud rapping at the door, and demands to open. The Colonel dressed as quickly as possible ; and, as he opened the door, several English soldiers demanded his surrender and all within. The Colonel replied, " I do surrender, and all with me." They then demanded : " Where is General Washington?" The Colonel replied, " He left yesterday evening." Upon looking out of the door, he saw two small field pieces planted directly opposite.