Bolton, Robert Jr. A History of the County of Westchester, from its First Settlement to the Present Time, Vol. II. New York: Alexander S. Gould, 1848.

On the 23d of October, a spirited skirmish took place between Hand's Pennsylvania riflemen and a detachment of Hessian chasseurs, about 240 strong, in which the Hessians were routed. These harassing encounters of the Americans (attended invariably with success) tended to delay the advance of the British and lo make them cautious, while it cheered the desponding courage of the …

Haslet to take command of the hill, having under his command his own (the Delaware) Regiment, the Militia, and part of the Maryland troops. General McDougal soon followed him and took the command. Col. Haslet says the enemy in the first place moved towards the fortifications in the village -- they then halted -- itie general ofiicers had a council of war on horseback in the …

So soon as the bridge would admit their crossing, they rushed forward and attempted to Xake the two pieces by a charge up the hill -- these two cannon were in charge of the late Alexander Hamilton, (then a captain of artillery,) and never did officers or men do better execution. When upon the spot in after years, describing it io a youthful friend, he was heard to say, 'For …

At length compelled to retreat, it was done in good order over the bridge at the foot of the hill under cov-er of some regiments detached by Washington fronti his main army. The militia and a few of the regulars were dispersed among ihe hills of Greenburgh, but soon returned to Head Quarters. The British forces engaged in that attack were the flower of the army, consisting of …

At the advance of the British army to White Plains the Whig families were seen hurrying unprotected before them with thin clothing and a scanty supply of provisions to seek shelter for the coming winter, they knew not where. Desolation and famine marked that fair region over which the two armies passed. The English army finding all attempts to circumvent General Washington …

Among the most daring were the guides -- such men as Abraham Dijckman, Cornelius Oakley and John Odell. In the darkness of night they have often surprised and carried off captains, officers and men, under the guns of the British forts at Morrisania, or in small parties amused Itiemselves by beating up De Lancey's quarters. Frequent alarms had made them watchful of surprise and …

Tliis relic of the past was disinterred near the spot it occupies. COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. 373 the north, and almost parallel with the left of the army, as it was then formed. " Yonder," says Major Gen. Lee, pointing to the grounds just mentioned, "is the ground we ought to occupy." " Let us then go and view it," replied the Commander-in-Chief. When on the way, a light horseman …

The British advanced in two columns. At this instant, the cannonade was brisk on both sides ; directed by the British across the hollow and Bronx, against the Americans on the hill, and by them returned. Almost at the same instant, the right column, composed of British troops, preceded by about twenty light horse in full gallop, and brandishing their swords, appeared on the …

When the head of the column had got nearly across the lot, their front got out of sight ; nor could the extent of their rear be now discovered. The sun shone bright, their arms glittered, and perhaps troops never were shown to more advantage, than these now appeared. The whole now halted ; and for a few minutes, the men all sat down in the same order in which they stood, no …

They moved off the hill in a great body, neither running, nor observing the best order. The British ascended the hill very slowly, and when arrived at its summit, formed and dressed their line, without the least attempt to pursue the Americans. The loss on the side of the Americans was inconsiderable. That of the British was not then known. The British army having got …

Brigadier Generals Leslie, Knyphausen, Rahl, De Heister, and Matthews ; Lord Percy, Count Dunop, Colonel Ralle, Colonel Ritzema, and Major Rogers, (fcc, &c. The following letter of General George Clinton, dated Camp, at the old Place near White Plains, Nov. 2d, 1776, to a friend, is copied from the journal of the Provincial Congress : My Dear Sir : -- Your favours of the 30th …

town, and south-east of N , and fell back on those heights ; firing all the barns, hay and corn stacks in front. This induced the enemy to believe we had again retreated, and determined to take the advantage of our apparent fligiit, their army instantly moved forward into the part of our lines which were evacuated. This brought on a pretty brisk cannonade, though at too great …

He went out in the morning with about 30 men, and fell in with about 100 of the enemy in a house not far distant from their lines -- charged them with spirit, gave them a brisk fire, but unfortunately, when loading his piece the second time, was shot in the head, and fell dead. His lieutenant shot down the man who killed his captain. The enemy fled ; our party brought off …

I need not ask you to forward the enclosed. I know jou will do it. Though I determined never to meddle with the disposition of officers, I cannot help recommending Colonel Duboys and his officers, who served in our army to the northward last year, to the Convention. Should they quit the army by any neglect, it will be a public loss. They are brave men and good officers, at …

We looked around with eagerness at each portion of the room on which his eye must have rested, we gazed through the small window panes through which he must have so often and so anxiously looked towards the enemy, and at the oldfashioned buffets where his table service was deposited for his accommodation. But little change has taken place in the building, and its amiable and …

There is perhaps no town in the county belter watered by rivers, brooks, and spring?. * Mr. Elijiih Miller (who is since deceased,, was a soldier of the Revolution. b DistunieU'p Gazetteer, N. Y. COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. 377 YORKTOWN. Wiiite Plains, distant forty-two miles from New York, and one hundred and seventeen from Albany, ''bounded north by Putnam county, east by Somers …

The principal aboriginal settlement in this part of Appamaghpogh occupied the summit of Indian hill, a vast height, wliich rises to an elevation of nearly six hundred feet above the northern margin of Lake Magrigaries, (Hollow Lake) situated in Jefferson valley. On the southern side of the hill lies the Indian burying -ground. The remains of several Indians have been lately …

Middle lot No. 2 and 3, Gertrude Verplanck ; ditto No. 4, Elizabeth Skinner ; south lot No. 1, bordering the Croton river, John Watts; ditto Nos. 4, 5, 6, 7, Philip Yerplank ; ditto No. 8, Gertrude Beeckman ; ditto No. 9. Susannah Warren. Subsequently the devisees and their heirs made other divisions, A. U. 1784, Andrew Miller, sold to John Strang a farm in west range of north …

The following receipts for rent prove the Purdys to have been tenants in common long prior to the above release. They also establish the early names of the town. "Rec'd, Hanover, May ye lOih, 1760, by ye hand of Abraham Purdy, three pound in part for his farm rent and for the use of Col. Henry Beeckman, Esq., per me. £3 0 0 "John Bryan." " Received at Crompond, 16th Nov'r …

The Presbyterian Church is handsomely located on the highest ground of the village, commanding a fine view of the surrounding country ; it was built in 1799, on the site of an older edifice erected cir. 1738, and destroyed by fire in July, 1779. At the time of its destruction the old church appears to have been used as a store house by the Continental troops ; for, during the …

Upon the 2nd of January, 1739, we find a deed for three acres of land given by Joseph Lane, Henry Beeckman and Gertrude his wife, unto John Hyatt, John Haight and David Travis, trustees for the first Presbyterian church, on which land tlie meeting house was erected (said three acres being part of two hundred and twenty acres leased to Joseph Lane for three lives, 25th March …

Asael Bronson, ditto. Rev. Richard Wyncup, ditto. Rev. Thomas G. Thompson, ditto. •i Occemun the celebrated Indian preacher once addressed a crowded audience from tiie pulpit of this church. b Co. Rec. Religious Soc. Lib. A. 83. ' Co. Rec. Rehgious Soc. Lib. A. 77, 79, 81, 83, 147. COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. 381 Rev. Peter Lockwood, supply. Rev. William Marshall, do. Rev. John …

In the south-east corner of the yard, lie the mortal remains of Colonel Green, the hero of the Red hank, and Major Flagg his brave companion in arms, both of whom fell by the hands of cruel treachery, on the morning of the 14th of May, 1781. But where shall we look for a monument or even a stone to mark the spot where these brave patriots lie pillowed in the dust? When will …

For the destruction of this obnoxious post, Colonel Robertson obtained of the English governor, a special order and the command of a regiment. From New York, he appears to have proceeded by water to Peekskill, wliere he landed, swearing he would burn up the d -- d committee house, and guided by a spy, named Caleb Morgan, marched to Crompond, where he burnt the pirsonage, then …

En 1790, a part of the members withdrew by mutual consent, and formed a new church at Red Mills. About the year 1806, a division occurred in the church, when more than two thirds of her members adhered to Mr. Constant, and maintained the Congregational mode of worship, the remainder resumed the Presbyterian form. . . -. " The Loyalists of Corllandi's manor were disarmed by …

Among other monuments in the grave yard, is the following : • In memory of the Rev. Silas Constant, who departed this life March 22, 1825, aged 75 years, 2 mo. - , and 7 days. The Friends meeting house is situated at a short distance from the village of Crompond, and stands on land jointly given by John Clapp and Joseph Waters, in 1774. The following is a brief abstract of the …

Alvan Purdy, was the son of Abraham Purdy, Esq., for many years a Lieutenant of Militia for the Manor of Cortlandt. This individual erected the present mansion, A. D. 1775. The Purdy's have long been possessed of estates in this town, and are lineally descended from the Purdys of Rye and White Plains. Of this family was Joseph Purdy, one of the proprietors of the White Plains …

White of Yorktown through the whole course of the Revolution sustained the character of a patriot, with that devotion and firmness which characterised the many at that eventful period of our history. It appears that the enemy made several unsuccessful attempts to capture this distinguished individual. On one occasion they were desirous of exchanging the doctor for a British …

James Brewer, who resided in the immediate neighborhood, and were proceeding home with their prisoner, when passing through Stoney street they were fired upon by a party of Americans, who lay concealed behind the fences. Dr. Brewer received a mortal wound and expired the next morning, Nov. 20, 1780, in the arms of Dr. White who had thus narrowly escaped the melancholy fate of …

From the genealogical table in possession of the Strangs of Putnam, it appeal s that Daniel L'Estrange and Charlotte his wife, (daughter of Francis Hurbert,) being protestants, fled from the city of Paris in the year of our Lord 16^5, during the persecutions under Louis the XIV., and came to the city of London. He obtainf^d a lieutenancy in the guards of James the 2d, King of …

COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. 385 As a substitute they seized upon Dr. James Brewer, who resided in the immediate neighborhood, and were proceeding home with their prisoner, when passing through Stoney street, they were fired upon by a party of Americans, who lay concealed behind the fences. Dr. Brewer received a mortal wound and expired the next morning, Nov. 20, 1780, in the arms …

From the genealogical table in possession of the Strangs of Putnam, it appeal s that Daniel L'Estrange and Charlotte his wife, (daughter of Francis Hurbert,) being protestants, fled from the city of Paris in the year of our Lord 16y5, dtu'ing the persecutions under Louis the XIV., and came to the city of London. He obtained a lieutenancy in the guards of James the 2d, King of …

D. 1656, died at Rye ill this county A. D. 1703. His will bears date the same year. The laie Major Joseph Strang, uncle of the prcspnt proprietor, greatly distinguished himself in the batteaux service during the old Frencli war. In the same street fornierly resided Susannah de Lancey,a daughter of Etienne de L-mcey Esq., and Anne Van Cortlandt his wife. Her house during the …

About 130 ligiit infantry of the enemy at the same time, came out from Verplank's Point, made an excursion round and then returned.'' Upon another occasion the Continental troops having stacked their arms in the church, then used as an Arsenal, were engaged at breakfast when the enemy made a sudden and furious onset, capturing and killing some and compelling others to seek …

Major Strang, who happened to be miserably mounted, was also pursued down the same street and narrowly escaped by jumping from his horse. It seems from the following letter that timely notice was occasionally given of the enemy's approach. Hanover. Saturday Morning, one o^clocfc. Sir. -- Captain Buckhout and Mr. Hiuit are sent by Colonel Putnam to inform you that the light …

This is to be considered a very hazardous situation ; it requires the utmost vigilance to guard against a surprise. Major Trescott is an excellent disciplinarian, an active vigilant officer, and well acquainted with his duty. A parly of volunteers collected here oa horseback, for a secret expedition, and by their earnest request, Major Tres.- cott inarched in the night with a …

'• A gentleman volunteer, by name Requaw, received a dangerous wound and was carried into the British lines ; I was requested by his brother to visit him, under the sanction of a flag of truce, in company with Dr. White, who resides in this vicinity. This invitation I cheeifully accepted, and Mr. Requaw having obtained a flag from the proper authority and procured horses, we …

Colonel De Lancey furnished us with a permit to return with our flag ; we rode ten miles, and took lodgings in a private house. Here we were informed that six of our men, having taken from the refugees thirty head of cattle, were overtaken by forty of De Lancey's corps and were all killed but one, and the cattle retaken. In the morning breakfasted with a friendly Quaker …

We found many friends to our cause, who reside on their farms between the lines of the two armies, whose situation is truly deplorable, being continually exposed to the ravages of the tories, horse thieves, and cow boys, who rob and plunder them without mercy, and the personal abuse and punishments which they inflict is almost incredible."" » Thacher's Mil. Journal. 248, 9 …

The translator dined, in October, 1782, in General Washington's tent, with the Marquis de Laval, the Baron de Viomenil, and several French officers, within hearing of the British guns, which were at that period happily become a bnttum fulmeny^ On the north-west side of French hill, are the two ponds styled by the Indians Keakatis. The largest of these, sometimes known by the …

The Pine's briiige road leading south from Crompond, affords magnificent views of the rich and fertile country bordering the Croton River, together with the village of Yorktown, and the Turkey and C'ollabergh mountains. Upon this road are situated the farms and residences of General Bernardus Montross,^ Mr. Seth Whitney, Mr. James Underbill, Mr. Richard M. Underbill and George …

Underbill, who died on the 5th of May, 1S41, aged 7S years, was the second son of Isaac Uuderhiil, fourth in descent from John Underbill of Oyster Bay, L. I. In the old fLunily mansion which stands one mile south of this spot, (on the Pine's bridge road) is shown the room where Major Andre and Joshua H. ISmith, breakfasted on the 23d of September, 1780. At this period, the …

b Upon the 9th of Nov., 1832, George McKeel conveyed te Isaac McKeel Daniel Smith, Aaron Underbill and Edward Borrough Underbill, 1 acre of laud 3 miles north of Pine's bridge." « This lady was the daughter of Robert Field, whose nephew John was a re- COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. 391 courage, whilst engaged in entertaining Andre and his companion, she took parliculnr notice of the …

He had practiced the greatest vigilance in guarding this ford in the night time, taking off the guards after sunrise, apprehendmg that the enemy would never presume to cross the river in the day lime ; but the enemy, having learnt his mode of doing duly, on the morning of the 13th effected his overthrow, by crossing the ford soon after the guards had come off, and surrounding …

De Lancey anxious for an oppoitnnity to return llie recent attack made upon his quarters by Captain Gushing,'^ instantly fitted out a force of about 150 dragoons, as described by Heatli. The route selected by their experienced commander, was the road leading to White Plains, by which means the party escaped tlirough the only opening in the long line of sentinels stretched …

By this means, Davenport's house was surrounded by the enemy, and all possibility of escape cut of!:' before the danger was discovered. De Lancey remained on the south side of the river, probably with a view to cover the retreat of his party, if it should prove necessary. To General Heath's account of the surprisal, we must be permitted to add the following extract from …

The commandant of these refugees, (Delancy was not present,) having ascertained the position of Greene's corps, which the colonel had cantoned in adjacent farm houses -- probably with a view to the procurement of subsistence -- took the resolution to strike it. This was accordingly done, by a nocturnal movement, on the 13th of May. The enemy crossed the Croton before daylight …

Several fell beneath the arm accustomed to conquer, till at length, overpowered by numbers, and faint from the loss of blood streaming from his wounds, barbarity triumphed over valor. ' His right arm was almost cut off in two places, the left in one, a severe cut on the left shoulder, a sword thrust through the abdomen, a bayonet in the right side, and another through the …

Lieutenant Colonel Greene was murdered in the meridian of life, being only forty-four years old. He married in 1758, Miss Anne Lippitt, a daughter of Mr. J. Lippitt, Esq., of Warwick, whom.he left a widow with three sons and four daughters. He was stout and strong in person, about five feet ten inches high, with a broad round chest ; his aspect manly and demeanor pleasing …

Dear Sir. -- It is with pain I write you on a subject that is so nearly and closely connected to you as a parent ; I must my dear friend inform you of the nnhappy fate that befel your son. This morning the enemy made an attack upon the lines, which was a complete surprise, and he fell a sacrifice to the cruel hand of tyranny in defending himself against the strokes struck by …

And as they went by the houses informed the inhabitants should there be any enquiry after the Colonel they left him dead in the edge of the woods. b This cruel and barbarous treatment was perpetrated by De Lancey's corps, De Lancey himself at the head.' Major Flagg, as he arose from his bed received a ball in his head, and when they entered the house they stabbed and cut him …

The loss of my dear friend must fall heavy on the family, but as life is uncertain we must surrender it when the great Jehovah calls. To morrow we shall bestow on each of them the honors " See Updike's history of the Narragansett Church, for a full account of himself and family. b Green expired near the residence of Mr. Sutton, where he was found the following morning by Majar …

In the south east corner of Yorktown, is situated the great dam of theCroton Acqueduct, one of the most important and extensive works ever undertaken in this country. "The dam across the Croton, is placed where the river enters between the hills, after having passed for several miles through a more level country. The hill on the south side is composed of solid rock."t> The dam …

Carpenter is a grandson of Richard Davenport, who held the property m 780. b Disturnell*s Gazetteer of N. Y. 396 *' HISTORY OF THE apparatus for drawing off the water in case any internal repairs should be necessary," &c.* " The whole quantity of land which the water commissioners have been compelled to buy on the forty miles of the works, amount to nine hundred acres, and the …

Save where the oars the stillness break ; Nor do the breezes dare to rise, To mar thy beauty, Croton Lake. The purest joys that friendship yields. We here in rich profusion taste, • . . While busy thought roams o'er the fields Of memory, brightening from the past ; Sweet recollections crowd the mind, With former scenes of purest bliss ; While now, a sweet delight we find . . ■ …

" The supplies of the Croton are derived exclusively from the elevated region of the Highlands, in Westchester county and Putnam, being furnished by the pure springs which so remarkably characterize the granitic formation of this region. Many of the ponds and lakes from which it is maintained, are, three or four hundred acres in extent, and as large as 1000 acres : all these …

The following report of the engineers is entitled : " Estimate of expense to make the Croton river navigable for boats of two tons." The falls at Croton river with a lock, £350 The falls below the Old bridge, 250 Small rapid, 10 Rapid and stony, ' ' ' 15 2 small falls, 15 See Corporat. Doc. of N. Y., No. xxxvi. 409. 398 HISTORY OF THE Rocky falls and stony water, £ 60 Fall …

Here the Americans generally kept a strong guard for the purpose of affording timely notice of an enemy's approach. Jt was also a place of rendezvous, as appears from the following orders : ''Mojior of Cortlandt, 12th Nov., 1781. " Lieutenant Purdy, you are commanded to march 24 of your men, well armed and equipt with six days provision, to Pine^s Bridge, by to-morrow morning …

2Ist of October, 1780, " intelligence was received that the enemy were meditating an excursion as far up as Crompond and its vicinity, to sweep off the cattle." General Heath " immediately ordered Colonel Hazen, with a detachment of 500 men, to move to Pine's Bridge, and Lieut. Col. Jameson, with the 2d light dragoons, to move from Bedford towards Col. Hcizen. The detachment …

The low grounds yield maple, black birch, ash and hemlock, &c. The first entry relating to town officers occurs in the manor book, entitled, " Record for the manor of Cortlandt and Yorktown." " At a town meeting held for ye manor of Cortlandt, on the first Tuesday, in April, in the year of our Lord, 1760, to choose town officers for ye said manor for the ensuing year, and the …

YoNKERs is situated on the east bank of the Hudson, immediately above New York island, seventeen miles north of New- York, one hundred and thirty south of Albany, and ten southwest of White Plains ; bounded north by Greenburgh, east by Eastchester and a small angle of Westchester, or by Bronx's River ; south by West Farms and New York county, and west by the Hudson River. It …

" Appeared before me, Cornelis van Tienhoven, secretary of the New Netherlands, Fecquemeck, Rechgawac, Packanniens, owners of Kekeshick, which they did freely convey, cede, 6cc. &c, to the behoof of the General Incorporated West India Company^ which lies over against the flats of the Island cf Manhates, mostly east and west, beginning at the source of the said Kill till over …

Eighty years later we find it varied to Nepperah^'^ the proper Indian orthography of which is evidently Nap-pe-c/ia-mak, rendered literally the ^- rapid waiter settlement^ 4'hus graphically expressing the situation of the Mohegan village, at the mouth of the Neperah, or rapid waters. e In the deep seclusion of the ancient forests that once bordered this beautiful stream, were …

The last settlement of the Nappeckamak Indians remembered in this town stood near the present residence of Abraham Fowler, on a rising bank of the Neperah (Saw Mill.) The crystal waters of this sweet stream (which rims principally north and south) arise from two perennial springs in a Alb. Rec. C. C. G2. t Sometimes called the Younger Van Dunke. Assize Rec. Alb. 47. « Alb …

" To these stones they paid all outward signs of worship and devotion, not as to God, but as they are hieroglyphicks of the permanency and immutability of the Deity; because these, both for figure and substance, are, of all sublunary bodies, the least subject to decay or change.''^ This stone lies in an obscure nook on the eastern shore of the Hudson, at the foot of a steep …

The two rocks or stones and rivulet here referred to, still form a portion of the northern boundary of Yonkers, running east to Bronx's river. In this town are also two Indian bunjirig grounds. The principal one lies two miles north of the village, on Blackwell's hill. Within the recollection of many persons still living, the graves were distinctly indicated by rude mounds of …

The second and last place of sepulture used by the Indians in this town, is now nearly covered by the barn and out buildings of Benjamin Fowler, Esq. The site was well chosen on rising ground at the entrance of the Sprain valley. Besides the Tawasenthas, (or places of many dead,) numerous skeletons have been discovered in different parts of the town, showing it to have been …

It may not be inappropriate to mention that Hendrick Hudson had an engagement with the Indians, 1609, at the mouth of the Spuyten Dyvil creek. The descendants of the last named chief, Tackarcw, conhnned to reside in Yoiikers for more than half a century after the sale to Van der Donck. A. D. 1646, as we find Claas de Wilt, Nemerau, and a sqnaw, Karocapacomont, confirming the …

We have shown that the next grantee in Younckers, under the Indians, was the renowned Dutch De Heer Adriaen van der Donck. «i "This illustrious personage was a free citizen of Breda in Dutch Brabant, part owner of the famous turf sloop in which a party of Dutch troops were clandestinely introduced, in 1590, into the castle commanding that city, then in the hands of the …

This valuable property was situated on the east side of Hudson's river, about sixteen miles above New Amsterdam, It was bounded on the north by a stream which the Indians called Maccakassin and ran south to Neperhaem ; thence to the tShorakapJwck kill, and to Pajnrinimen creek, called by the Dutch ' Spuyten dnyve!,' whence it stretched eastward to the river Bronx, The title of …

D, 16(34, when it was distinctly declared, " That the Indian proprietor's name, who was chief of them, was Tackareia, living at the Navisans, (the highlands of the Nevisink, N, J.) who acknowledged ye purchase as before described, and that he had recived satisfaction for it. Claes ye Indian having interest in a part, acknowledged to have sold and received satisfaction of Van …

Soon after the settlement of our Patroon at Colen Donck, there arose a controversy between the government of the Colony of New Netherlands and several of the colonists ; among the most forward of the latter was Adriaen van der Donck. who with others united in a strong remonstrance to the States General of Holland, complaining of the power exercised by the Dutch West India Co …

At the Hague, 1650.) This attempt to shake the authority of the Dutch West India Company, proved abortive, and only served to re-act unfavorably upon the disaffected ; 19 March, 1050, occurs a contract between the Dutch West India Co., Van der Donck and others, for the transportation of 200 persons to New Netherlands.= November 29, 1650, Cornelis Van Tienhoven secretary of the …

the coininittee of the States General, staling his intended return to the New Netherlands. a Again, May 30, 1G52, a second memorial from Adriaen van der Donck to the same body, •' respecting various matters connected with his visit to Holland on behalf of Gemeente at New Netherlands. 1^ During the Patroon's stay in Holland, he had shipped for Colen Donck seven persons, four of …

After I attained this grant in the year 1646, I resolved to reside here, erected a saw mill and laid out a farm and plantation, and was actually resolved to continue on this spot, when I further with consent of the Director General, purchased a part of said land from the Indians the original proprietors^ who reclaimed it as belonging to them, but the suppliant observing that …

This valley contained about 30 or 40 morgen,'' with another handsome vale bordering on said, on the back part of the Island of Manhattans, and stretching as far as Paprinemin called by our people, in spite of the dyvel, where the supplicant was determined to fix his residence as soon as he should have finished all his oonceins at the saw kill ; and which yet remains his firm …

26 May, 1652, occurs an octroy, granting to Adrlaen van der Donck, Patroon of the Colony of Colendonck, power to bequeath his said fief of Colendonck. " The states general of the United Netherlands, to all who shall see or hear these presents, send health. Be it known, that we, at the humble request of Adriaen van der Donck of Breda, Patroon of the colony of Nepperhaem, called …

Be it known, that we, at the humble request of Adriaen van der Donck of Breda, Patroon of the colony of Nepperhaem, called by him Colendonck, situated in New Netherlands, within the limits of the privileged West India company, and having taken into consideration the 5th article of the freedom granted by the assembly of the nineteen of the saiJ company, to all those who shall …

- '■ About this period, the Palroon commenced the compilation of his celebrated book, entitled " Beschyvinge van Nieuw Neder- }and," or a description of New Netherland, the copyright of which bears dale, 17th May, 1653.^ The work is dedicated " To the Illustrious, Most Wise and Prudent Lords, the Honorable Ruling Burgomasters of the far-famed commercial City of Amsterdam. Why …

To Van der Donck, his book, which, as a leading star, Directs toward the land where many people are, . .^ _, '• ■ Where lowland Love and Laws all may freely share. , • [^Evert Nieuwenhof.^'' 24lh of July of the same year, we find him petitioning the Directors of the West India company, for permission to search the records of the colony, and also for leave to pursue the …

Adriaen van der Donck has petitioned our college, [stating] first, that he has received his degree at law in the university of Leyden, and been admitted to practice it before the supreme court of Holland, he may be permitted to follow his profession as advocate in New Netherlands. 2ndly, That he may examine all the records and documents in the secretary's office to accomplish …

may desire to obtain it -, but, as regards his pleading before the courts, we cannot see that it can be admitted yet, with any advantage to the Director and Council in New Netherlands, besides that we are ignorant of there being any of that stamp in your city (who nevertheless before they can be admitted, must apply to your honor, or directly to our department) who can act and …

Kieft as ours, in the usual manner granted by letters patent, and in virtue of these possessed by those of our nation, as so among others the land of Jonas Bronck, the lands of the old Verdonck divided and settled by his children and associates in various plantations and farms, but who in the massacre'^ were absconded with many others, all which are situated here and bordering …

savages declared and solicited them to purchase other lands to the east ar^d west of the North river, dat. 20 June, 1664.* On the I2th of March, 16G4, the Dutch possessions in America were patented to his Royal Highness James Duke of York and Albany, by his brother KingCharles II. This grant was immediately followed by a military and naval armament under the command of Colonel …

Richard Nicolls, Esq , governor under his Royal Highness, ye Duke of York, of all his territoryes in America, to all to whom this present writing shall come, sendeth greeting : Whereas there is a certain tract of land within this government, upon the main, bounded to the northwards by a rivulet called by the Indians, Macakassin, so running southward to Nepperhaem, from thence …

Know ye, that by the virtue of this our commission and authority given unto me by his Royal Highness the Duke of York, I have thought fit to give, ratify, confirm, and grant, and by these presents do give, ratify, confirm, and grant, unto the said Hugh O'Neale and Mary his wife, their heirs and assigns, all the aforementioned tract or parcel of lands called Neperhaem, together …

That, if at any time hereafter his Royal Highness, his heirs, successors, or assignes, shall think fit to make use of any timber for shipping, or for erecting or repairing of forts within this government, liberty is reserved for such uses and purposes to cut any sort of timber upon any unplanted grounds on the said tract of land, to make docks, harbours, wharfes, houses, or …

This purchase lay directly opposite to Yonckers.ti A. D. 1653, Gysbert van der Donck occurs, a defendant in a suit brought by Gulyan Jansen, a carpenter, for the recovery of damages on the loss of clothes sustained by plaintiff, " which through the fault of defendant's fother, then his master, had been stolen by the Tndians."'> 1653, Madame Anna van der Donck occurs as …

I.) It was conferred upon him and his associates, 2Sth March, 16^2."^ He had reinforced himself now in one year with some families, but in consequence of the breaking out of the war, they were all driven from their lands with loss of some people, and the destruction of much cattle, losing for the most part all their houses and whatever they possessed. After they had remained …

Egbert Benson,) the proprietor of the creek, now Saw Mill creek, van der Kee ; and it is still to be collected from the documents, as not being improbable that the lands granted to Van der Donck and perhaps including the island of the Indian name of Papuriminon^ the southern shore at Kingsbridge were the neighborhood called the Lower Yonck- ERs, as to be distinguished from the …

"Upon the 10th of October, in the eleventh year of the reign * Guillam's Display of Heraldry. b A. D. 1664, one George Tippett being accused and found guilty of hogg steali ng, the court doth adjudge the delinquent shall pay as a fine to his majestie's use the sum of .£14, or receive ye corporal punishment of thirty one stripes, at the common whipping post, before ye state …

Between Frederick Felipse of the city of New York, merchant, of the one part, &c., and Jacobus van Cortlandt of the same city, merchant, of the other part, witnesseth that the said Frederick Felipse, as well for and in consideration of a certain sum of good and lawful money to him in hand paid, before the ensealing and delivery of these presents, by the said Jacobus van …

" To all Christian people and others to whom these presents shall come, Clause Dewilt, Karacapacomont and her son Nemerau sendeth greeting: Know yee,that wee, the said Clause Dewilt, Karacapacomont, and Nemerau, native Indians and former proprietors of a certain tract of land lying in the county of Westchester in the province of New York in America, commonly called and known …

claim to ihe said tract of land called the old Younckers, and to every part and parcel tlieieof, and do hereby acknowledge the above consideration to be in Cull of ail dues and demands whatsoever, for the said tract of land and premises, 10 have and to hold the said tract of land called the old Younckers, to the said Jacobus van (Jortlandt and the heirs of the Belts and …

Feb. 19, 1GS4-.5, Thomas Dongan, governor of New York, by a patent did ralify and confirm unto ,loIin Uelaval, Frederick Pliilipse and Geerije Lewis, relict of Thomas Lewis, the aforesaid tract. 27 Aiigusr, 16S5, John Delaval sold his third part in the same to Frederick Philipse, as also Gcertje, wife of Thouias Lewis, Lodowick Lewis, Barent Lewis, Leonard Lewis, Katherine …

Frederick Philipse. •■_,'_■ ' John Pell. Frederick Philipse being now vested in the fee simple, the whole territory was by royal charter, erected into the lordship and manor of Philipsborough, to be holden of the king, in free and common soccage, its lord yielding, rendering, and paying therefor, yearly and every year, on the feast day of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin …

■William and Mary, by the grace of God, &c., king and queen of England, Scotland, France and Ireland, defenders of the faith, &c., to all to whom these presents shall come, greeting : whereas, the Honorable Richard Nicolls, Esq., late governor of our Province of New York, &c., by a certain deed or patent, sealed with the seal of our said Province, bearing date the 8th day of …

» Co. Re. T-ib. A. 63, COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. 419 writing, bearing date 29 day of Nov., in the year of our Lord 1672, for the consideration therein expressed and mentioned, did assign and set over, all and singular his right and title and interest, of, in and to the aforementioned tract of land and premises unto Thomas Deleval, Esq., Frederick Philips and Thomas Lewis …

Thomas Dongan, late gov. of our said province &c., and as by a certain deed or patent, sealed with the seal of our said province, &c., and bearing date the 19th of Feb., in the year of our Lord, 1684-5, pursuant to the authority in him then residing, for the consideration therein expressed, did further grant, ratify and confirm, unto the said Thomas Deleval, Frederick Philips …

Betts and George Tippets, and then by a certain lyne of marked trees due west 30 chains to the marked tree or south-east corner of the purchase of John Heddy, then due N. 34 chains, from thence due west by their purchase, 90 chains to the north-west corner of the 300 acres, then due south 16 chains to the north-west corner of the 20 acres purchased of John Heddy, thence and by …

river, containing in all, 7,703 acres, together with all and singular the messuages, tenements, buildings, barns, stables, orchards, gardens, pastures, meadows, mills, mill-dams, runs, streams, ponds, livers, brooks, woods, underwoods, trees, limber, fencing, fishing, fowling, hunting, hawking, liberties, privileges, hereditaments and improvements whatsoever, belonging or in …

Sir Edmund Andross, late governor of our said province of New Y^ork, &c., by a certain writing or patent, sealed with the seal of our said province, bearing date the first day of April, in the year of our Lord, 1680, pursuant to the authority in him then COUNTY OF WESTCHES TER. 421 residing, did give and grant unto tlie said Frederick Philips, a certain tract or parcel of …

Indians, Pocaiileco or Wackandeco, wiiii power thereon to set a mill or mills, with a due portion of land on each side, adjoining unto the said river, lying within the bounds of ihe Indians land at VV^ickers creek, on the east side of ihe Hudson river, which said Indian land, was by the said Frederick Philips purchased from the said native Indian proprietors thereof, by the …

422 HISTORY OP THE woods as the said creek or kill shall go, and there shall be the end or utmost bounds of the said certain pieces of land, as by the said writing or Indian deed, relation being thereunto had may more fully and at large appear, as likewise another tract or parcel of land on the east side of Hudson's river that was by said Frederick Philips purchased of the …

woods as the said creek or kill shall go, and there shall be the end or utmost bounds of the said certain pieces of land, as by the said writing or Indian deed, relation being thereunto had may more fully and at large appear, as likewise another tract or parcel of land on the east side of Hudson's river that was by said Frederick Philips purchased of the Indians Goharius …

COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. 423 being the utmost bounds of the said Frederick Philips's land, formerly bought of the Indians, ■ind from thence westwardly along the said creek Wegqueakeek to Hudson's river aforesaid, as by the said Indian deed, relation being thereunto had, may more fully and at large appear, and also another tract or parcel of land that was by the said Frederick …

being the utmost bounds of the said Frederick Philips's land, formerly bought of the Indians, ■ind from thence westwardly along the said creek Wegqueakeek to Hudson's river aforesaid, as by the said Indian deed, relation being thereunto had, may more fully and at large appear, and also another tract or parcel of land that was by the said Frederick Philips purchased of the …

424 HISTORY OF THE east lytiP uniill it comes iinio a creek called Nippiorha, by the Christians Yonkerd creek, and so runiiiiig alongst the said creek uniill it comes iinio the norilierly bounds of the said land of Frederick Philips aforesaid, and from thence alongst the said land uniill it comes to Hudson's river, together with all manner of rivers, rivulets, runns, streams …

east lytiP uniill it comes iinio a creek called Nippiorha, by the Christians Yonkerd creek, and so runiiiiig alongst the said creek uniill it comes iinio the norilierly bounds of the said land of Frederick Philips aforesaid, and from thence alongst the said land uniill it comes to Hudson's river, together with all manner of rivers, rivulets, runns, streams, feedings, pastures …

COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. 425 said moiety or equal half part of the said meadows and premises with the appertinences unto the said Frederick Philips, his heirs and assigns forever, as by the said grant or patent, sealed with the seal of our said province and registered in our secretary's office aforesaid, bearing date the said 27ih day of June, in the year of our Lord, 1687, and …

said moiety or equal half part of the said meadows and premises with the appertinences unto the said Frederick Philips, his heirs and assigns forever, as by the said grant or patent, sealed with the seal of our said province and registered in our secretary's office aforesaid, bearing date the said 27ih day of June, in the year of our Lord, 1687, and as by the said deed of …

S^ 426 . HISTORY OF THE and expressed. And whereas our loving subject the said Frederick Philips, one of the members of our council of our said province of New York, and the territories depending thereon in America, hath by his petition presented to Benjamin Fletcher, our captain-general and governor-in-chief of our said province of New York, &c , prayed our grant and …

Know ye, thai of our special grace, certain knowledge, and mere motion, we have given, granted, ratified, and confirmed, and by these presents do, for us, our heirs and successors, give, grant, ratify, and confirm unto said Frederick Philips, his heirs and assigns, all and every the aforerecited tracts and parcels of land and meadow ground within the limits and bounds before …

COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. •' A27 pools, woods, under-woods, trees, timber, quarries, rivers, runs, rivulets, brooks, ponds, lakes, streams, creeks, harbours, beaches, ferrys, fishing, fowling, hunting, hawking, mines, minerals, (silver and gold only excepted,) and all the other rights, members, liberties, priviledges, jurisdictions, royalties, hereditaments, proffits, tolls …

And know ye, that we, reposing special trust and confidence in the loyalty, wisdom, justice, prudence, and circumspection of our loving subject, do, for us, our heirs and successors, give and grant unto the said Frederick Philips, and to the heirs and assignees of him the said Frederick Philips, full power and authority at all times forever hereafter in the said lordship or …

428 HISTORY OF THE with the advovvson and riglit of patronage of all and every the church or churches erected or to be erected or establisho.J or hereafter to be erected or established within the said manor of Philipsborongh ; and we do also further give and grant unto the said Frederick Philips, his heirs and assignees, that all and singular the tenants of the said Frederick …

with the advovvson and riglit of patronage of all and every the church or churches erected or to be erected or establisho.J or hereafter to be erected or established within the said manor of Philipsborongh ; and we do also further give and grant unto the said Frederick Philips, his heirs and assignees, that all and singular the tenants of the said Frederick Philips, within the …

In testimony whereof we have caused the seal of our provmce of New York to be hereunto affixed. Witness Benjamin Fletcher our captain-general and governor-in-chief of our province of New York aforesaid, province of Pennsylvania and county of New Castle, and the territory and tracts of land depending thereon in America, at Fort William Henry, the 12th day of June, in the fifth …

Portugucs creek, and thence according to ye courjje of that creek into ye woods to ye head of ye same from thence on a last line to the creek called the Yunkers creek, and thence to continue on the same course to Broncks's river, also the boat Yoncker, with her furniture apparel and appurtenances, &c.a Upon the death of the Hon. Fredrick Philipse, the above devisee of his …

William Dalcher v'. J.- His own : 164 John Jewell ;. . 285 John Bishop . Jonathan Odell , ' 4^ Moses Ward Daniel Wiltsie - .309 Elijah Hunter r Jacob Storms Peter Davids "^ " -, ■ 200 Richard Delawley Samuel Drake George Daterach Arnold Hunt Philip Livingston Richard Garrisden James D. Clark 286' Abraham Orser Peter Post Thomas Bishop ' ^ ' Jacobus Dyckman Job Sherwood George …

This tract was exempted out of the great manorial patent of 1693, and aj)pears originally to have formed a part of the possessions of the Doughtys of Flushing, as we find John Doughty of that place in 1685 selling sixty-four acres o( land here, in one square mile, to Francis French, Ebenezer Jones and John Wascot.a u 22d May, 1674, John Winter of Westchester sold to Joseph …

By marriage they are connected with the ancient family of the Valentines. The Rich family originally came from Germany, and are descended of fyiber B. Co. Rec. p. .'53. COUNTY OF WESTCHESsTER. 431 the Ulrich of Flaack, whose son, Balthassar Ryche, emigrated to this country at an early period of its settlement. The following ancient document is still preserved in the family …

After having made diligent enquiries respecting his character, and also obtained from the regularly ordained minister here a written acknowledgment that his parents were lawfully married and he thus legitimately conceived and born, and subsequently baptized in a Christian like manner on the first day of June, in the year 166:2, in the presence of sponsors. It also appears that …

Here were quartered Colonel Emmerick's British light horse. The British Hussars were billeted here for several summers. The Ryche's mansion being occupied as head quarters, it was the custom of the troopers to tie up their horses to long cords stretched from the apple trees in the orchard, many of which arc still standing. 432 .' HISTORY OF THE For security the roads were …

In the British rear was a wood ; it had been designed to conceal the Queen's Rangers under General Simcoe, and while the Yagers and cavalry should have engaged with any corps who might patrole to Valentine's hill, it was thought probable that the enemy on ihe opposite side of the Bronx would pass over to their assistance, when the infantry and Highlanders would rush from the …

Lieutenant Colonel Simcoe immediately withdrew his men out of the reach of any chance shot, and made use of the low ground (the crossing of which would have led him into the ambuscade,) to march his infantry under its cover, out of their sight, or the reach of their cannon; he sent orders to Capt. Ross to withdraw, and a^ain ambuscaded the cavalry in a position to take …

September, 177S, Sir Arcliibald Campbell advanced with (lie Tlstregimentof the Scotch Highlanders to Mile square. They were soon after joined by General Grant with another force of Highlanders who occupied the ground from the Bronx at Hunt's bridge to the North River. Diu'ing the whole course of the war Colonel James de Lancey kept a recrniting oificer constantly stationed at …

In the retreat of the robbers, they pitched thelieadless body of their slain comrade, into the adjoining well. This tragical event has given rise to strange stories ; and has thrown over this spot a veil of horror; which is heightened by the loneliness of it? situation. Some benighted countryman has construed the gnarled and fantastic cedars, (which surround this spot,) into …

Valentine's hill and adjoining property has been occupied by the ancient and numerous family of the Valentines for nearly one hundred and twenty years. The ancestor of the family Matthias Valentine, having been one of the first tenants under the Philipses ; on his settlement here the whole surrounding country was one vast forest, the lonely domain of the deer. The verges of …

There yet remains a fine specimen of the ancient denizens of the forests on the western edge of this hill, by the road side leading to the village. Tiiis venerable chesnut tree in the fall of the year appears to be the favorite gathering place of thousands of swallows just before they commence their migrations. In possession of the Valentine family are numerous receipts given …

On this occasion Thomas Valentine wasengaged with the General in conversation, leaningupon the pominel of his saddle when the heads of the British columns were seen approaching at a distance of three or four miles on the opposite side of the Bronx, as if taking the direction of the hill. Under this supposition Washington ordered out several companies to attack the flanking …

From the 12th to the 27th of October, 1776, the American army lay entrenched in detached camps from this hill to (he White Plains.^ On the 27th, as the enemy continued to advance upon the White Plains, General Washington suddenly called in all his detachments, and abandoning the positions he had occupied along the Bronx, assembled all his forces in a strong camp upon …

Valentine hath not received them. B. Lincoln, On the 0th of .Tune, 1778, Sir William Erskine fell back towards Valentine's Hill. Tlie Queen's Rangers encamping on Odell's Hill, soon after, these corps formed part of an escort wliich accompanied the English commander-in-chief to the White Plains, a 1778. Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton was ordered, witfi the whole of the English …

COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. ■ 437 Valentine House ; seizing the proprietar, Thomas Valentine, they demanded his life or money ; whereupon, disbelieving or aifecting to disbelieve him, they threatened, on his again refusing, to hang him instantly. Obtaining no satisfactory answer, they carried him to the foot of a cherry tree, still standing, near the corner of the old garden, and …

Miss Susan Valentine, when a young woman, prevented a large party from entering the house by threatening them, single handed, with a large oven shovel, solemnly protesting she would split the head of the first man that dared to cross the thresh hold. Her courage and determination alone served to protect the house from plunder. On another occasion, an intimate friend, Mr …

During the scuffle that followed her brother's entrance, she contrived to crawl out at the foot of the bed. hoping, in this way, to escape unobserved. In this she was disappointed ; the villains observed and again seized her. In the violent attempt made to extricate herself the second time, the 4^y , HISTORY OF THE ,,: , money fell on the floor, or, as she herself described …

In consequence their property was confiscated to the State, (the Tippetts having fled to Nova Scotia,) and sold to Samuel Berrian, who married a daughter of Tippett, former proprietor. A second daughter became the wife of the celebrated Col. James de Lancey, one of the boldest foragers of the Neutral Ground. In 1796, Samuel Berrian » sold the whole estate of Tippett's Neck …

One thousand were detached for this purpose ; but the weather having grown warm Jn the night, the ice was judged, by the unanimous opinion of all the general officers on the ground, to be too hazardous, on the morning of the 20th, to venture the attempt. On this day there was a cannonade on both sides, and the enemy on the island side were thrown into much confusion. Our …

Whiting-, on the property of Mr. John Ewings. It is in the form of a hollow square, with banks fifteen or twenty feet high. Nothing can exceed the boldness of the scenery as viewed from this elevated spot ; below, the steep sides of the neck are bordered with beautiful woodland that skirts the shores of the majestic Hudson ; while beyond, the palisades are seen abruptly rising …

The Hudson here expands its waters, and; united with those of the Haarlem river at the mouth of the Spuyten duyvel, gives a beautiful lake like appearance to the whole; the winding creek, the heights of Fordham and wooded hills of New York island, serve to unite and blend a landscape which might have inspired the pen of a Thomson or the pencil of a Claude. The old Tippett …

At day-break on the22d ot October, the Halve Maen (Crescent) sailed from Teller's Point on her passage down the river, with a fair wind, twenty-one miles, till the tide set too strong against her, when she came to anclior near the upper end of Manhattan island. "The two captive Indians who had escaped at West Point had, it appears, made their way on the east side of the river …

One of the Indians who had escaped from Hudson's vessel now came out with many others armed with bows and arrows expecting to betray them."c But, says Juet the mate of Hudson's vessel, " we perceived their intent, and suffered none of them to enter our ship, wherenpon two canoes full of men with bows and arrows shot at us after our stern, in recompense whereof we discharged …

k> Who probably extended to Tappan bay.- Moulton. . . , - « Moulton's Hist. N. Y. part i. 271, Q * Hudson's Journal. COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. 441 It was here too, that during the absence of the ilhistrious Peter Stuyvesant, who was then occupied in reducing the Swedish fortresses on the Delaware, a body of nine hundred Indians having crossed the river, came and landed at …

Him did he adjure to take his war denouncing trumpet, and mounting his horse, to beat up ihe country, night and day, sounding the alarm along the pastoral borders of the Bronx, startling the wild solitudes of Croton, arousing the rugged yeomanry of Weehawk and Hoboken, the mighty men of battle of Tappan bay, and the brave boys of Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow, together with all …

Alas ! never more were they to be gladdened by the melody of their favorite trumpeter ! It was a dark and stormy night when the good Anthony arrived at the famous creek (sagely denominated Harlem river) which separates the island of Manna- hata « Egbert Benson's Mem N. Y. 94. Vol. II. 56 -»44^.' / • ^ HISTORY OF THE from the main land. The wind was high, the elements were in …

Here an old Dutch burgher, famed for his veracity, and who had been a witness of the fact, related to them the melancholy affair, with the fearful addition, (to which I am slow of giving belief,) that he saw the duyvel, in the shape of a huge moss-bonker, seize the sturdy Anthony by the leg, and drag him beneaih the waves. Certain it is, the place with the adjoining promontory …

The aggiegate value of this fish, (the Aiosa Sapidissima, Rap.,) taken in tfie Hudson river and neighbouring waters south of the Highlands, amounts to $^100,000 annually. Tlie small settle.jnent of Kingsbridge bordering on the Haarlem river, took its name from a ferry and bridge established here at a very early period of the Colonial administration. The Westchester side of the …

That as Frederick Phillipse will undertake to build the bridge at the said place, for the conveniency of all travellers and droves of cattle at a moderate and reasonable toll ; they do therefore humbly pray, that if the said Phillipse will undertake in one years time to build a good and convenient draw bridge for the passage of all travellers, droves of cattle and passage of …

The following year, 1093, the 5th of King William the third and Queen Mary, the ferry, Island and meadow were confirmed to Frederick Philipse, Lord of the manor of Philipsburgh, by royal charter and power given him to erect thereon a bridge and to receive a certain toll therein specified, and furthermore the said bridge to be henceforth called Kings hridgeA Madam Knight on her …

Kings Bridge constituted the ^^ barrier" of the British hne, when they occupied New York Island, while as far north as the Croton extended, the " Neutral Ground." Like the pass of ancient Thermopylae, Kings bridge can boast of her faithful bands of Spartans, whofought for " liberty or death." As early as May 25, 1775, Congress ordered, " That a post be immediately taken and …