The main channel, practicable for ships, was on the other side. lu this were sunk strong clu-rnvx-df-frm', difficult either to be weighed or cut through, and dangerous to any shins thut miglit run against them; subjected as they would i>e to tile batteries of Fort Millliu on one side, and on the other to those of Ft-rl ilercer. a strong work at lied Dauk ou the Jersey shore.

THE TOWN OF VORKTO\\"N'. 693

Fort Mifflin was garrisonod by troops of the Maryland line, under Lieutcnant- Coloii'-'l tramiicl Smith of Baltiinorc ; and the attack on Fort fiercer was given up.

These signal repuJies of the enemy had an auiniutingeti'ect on the public mind, and were proQiptly uuticed by Congress. Col. Greene, who comniauded at Fort Mercer; Lieutenant-CoU^iiel Smith of Marjdund, who commanded at Fort Mifflin ; and Commodore Hazelwood, who commanded the galley*, received the thanks of that body ; and consequently a sword was voted to each, as a testimonial of distinguished merit.""

Shrub Oak is a small village, in the northern part of the to\vn, forming a portion of Jefferson valley, and situated not far distant from Lake Ivlagrigaries, or what is now denominated Lake Osceola. This place is beautifully situated in a well watered and picturesque region, and, chiefly on account of its healthiness, is much sought after by New York citizens who are erecting some fine country seats in the neighborhood. One of the oldest residences in the village is located on Park street and belonged formerly to the Paulding family, but is now owned by the Rev. George S. Gordon, one of the former rectors of St. • Peter's church, Peekskill. It seems that the celebrated John Paulding of revolutionary fame, purchased the estate, on which the mansion stands, of Ezekiel Knapp, probably before the Revolution or soon after.