Bolton, Robert Jr. The History of the Several Towns, Manors, and Patents of the County of Westchester, from its First Settlement to the Present Time, Vol. I. New York: Charles F. Roper, 1881. Revised posthumous edition.

Pierre Van Cortlandt died on the morning of the first day of May instant, at his seat at Croton River, in this town, in the 94th year of his age, leaving issue by his wife Joanna Livingston, Philip, Gilbert, Stephen, Pierre, Catharine, Cornelia, Anne and Gertrude. Philip, the eldest son, was born in the city of New York on the first day of September, 1749. This individual was …

This document he subsequently destroyed, and received in lieu thereof a lieutenant colonel's commission in the Continental service, bearing date June, 1775, signed John Hancock, President of Congress. He continued to hold the above command in the 4th New York regiment until November the 28th, 1776, when he received from General Washington a colonel's commission in the 2d New …

Upon the first tidings, however, of their approach, Brant fled to the neighboring hills. In his diary Gen. Philip Van Cortlandt remarks, "As I approached him (Brant) he being on the hills, and seeing me leaning against a pine tree waiting for the closing up of my men, ordered a rifle Indian to kill me, but fortunately he over-shot me, the ball passing three inches over my …

Hazen was called on for trial, &c. ; we were for cashiering Arnold, but the majority overruled, and he was finally sentenced to be reprimanded by the commander-in-chief. Had all the court known Arnold's former conduct as well as myself he would have been dismissed the service," &c. In the year 1780 Col. Van Cortlandt was selected as one of the colonels to command a regiment of …

When you arrive at Springfield you will put yourself under the order of Major Gen. Lincoln, or any other your superior officers commanding at that place. You will also, if occasion should require it, alter the above route agreeably to orders from either Major General Lincoln or the quarter-master-general. You will be particularly careful to collect all your men that are in …

By his will he bequeathed to his brother, Gen. Pierre Van Cortlandt, 600 acres ; to his three sisters, Anne Van Rensselaer, Cornelia Beekman, and Catharine Van Wyck, 200 acres each ; and his western lands to his nephew, the late Philip G. Van Wyck of Sing Sing. The latter gentleman afterwards inherited his mother's portion consisting of 200 acres on north lot No. 1, south of …

The Dutch first denominated the village Peekskill from Jan Peek, one of their early navigators, who, mistaking the present Annsville creek for the proper passage through the race, ran his yacht ashore on the former. Here he subsequently erected a habitation and spent the winter. The earliest settlement in this neighborhood commenced one mile north-east of Peekskill, on the …

The first store was erected by Daniel Birdsall in the vicinity of middle dock, near the mill of Andrew Johnson, Esq. Captain Swim is said to have sailed the first sloop from Pemart's dock, A. D. 1773. From its earliest settlement, the growth of Peekskill has been gradual, and its population has increased according to the development of its resources. The population in 1870 was …

The pride of the town is her water works -- the Campfield -- so-called on account of the reservoir, which is located on an eminence that was undoubtedly the camping ground of the soldiers of a revolutionary fort stationed near by. The water furnished by these works is of a pure quality and in unlimited quantities, pumped from the Peekskill Creek, which takes it rise in Putnam …

In case of fire the danger now is in doing more damage with the water than will be accomplished by the flames. Fire protection is afforded by 75 hydrants so placed that, with few exceptions, all the property in the village is reached. The works were completed in 1875, and in all respects, viz. : economy in construction ($141,000), quality and quantity of water and …

The amount expended, the pupils taught and the number of teachers are about the same in each district, and the schools are efficiently and economically managed, the annual expense in each school being about $5,000. A principal and seven assistants are employed in each, and the average daily attendance in each is about three hundred. THE TOWN OF CORTLANDT. "5 The Peekskill …

W. Husted, Hon. C. M. Depew and others. It was for thirty years, until 1873, under its well known principal, Albert Wells, Esq., and has since that date been conducted by Col. Charles J. Wright, A. M., and Robert Donald, A. M., associate principals. At present it has one hundred students, among whom even Japan has a representation. The present valuation of its property is …

The school and recitation rooms are large and pleasant, with high ceilings, well ventilated, and built with a proper regard to the health and convenience of both teachers and students. Besides these institutions, there are the St. Gabriel's school, (Episcopal), the Seminary of Our Lady of Angels, (Roman Catholic), and Miss Germond's school for young ladies. The near proximity …

The plow works of Wyley & Conklin having been sold to Henry Robinson, the manufacture of grates and mantles for dwelling houses was commenced. Mr. Robinson was succeeded by Thos. Southard, dee'd, in 1840, who commenced the manufacture of stoves. Some eight or ten years afterwards, upon the death of Mr. Southard, the present farm of Southard, Robertson & Co. came into …

This firm continued the business for thirty years, when it was merged into a joint stock company, now known as the Peekskill Plow works. The foundries now in operation are The People's Stove Works, (Southard, Robertson & Co.), the Union Stove Works, (Hill's), National Stove Works (Stanford's), the foundry of Montross, Lent & Pollock, the American Stove Works, and the Peekskill …

These works have been idle during the past winter, but are expected to resume operations in a short time. Located within the town of Cortlandt and drawing a large portion of their supplies from Peekskill, are a number of brick yards, employing a large force of men and making the best brick in market. The one nearest the village is situated on Lent's Flats. This is owned and …

Pierre Van Cortlandt, first Lieutenant-Governor of the State. There is also a bust of this individual in the bank, presented by his son the late Gen. Pierre Van Cortlandt. A short distance below the town is situated the property of Captain Jas. Requa, a lineal descendant of Daniel, who emigrated from La Ro. chelle in France, to New Rochelle in this county and afterwards …

Being a royalist he retired to the British army when war was declared. His fine farm of two hundred acres was confiscated, and subsequently given by the government to John Paulding for his services as one of the three distinguished captors of Andre, the British spy. The property is now owned by Jacob Strang. He was buried in St. Peter's church-yard at Peekskill …

His wife Charity, who died in 1807, is buried at Harrison. The family were all staunch members of the Episcopal Church. After the close of the Revolution some of them returned to this country and settled at Horseneck, Greenwich, Conn. Mrs. Betsey Field, aged over eighty-six years, who resides with her brother Capt. Requa, is a granddaughter of the elder Dr. Peter Huggeford. A …

Writing to the society on the 3d of April, 1746, he says: -- "That as there are great numbers of people in the wilderness northward of Bedford and Westchester, who have very little knowledge or sense of religion, Mr. Lamson's labors will be employed to good purpose among them." In 176 1 Mr. Dibble of Stamford, Conn., officiated here, where he informs us "he found no settled …

"Andrew Johnson of Perth Amboy, East Jersey, party of the first part, for the value of five pounds, conveys to Caleb Hall, Joseph Travis and Palatiah Haws, parties of the second part, a parcel of land lying at a place called Peekskill, being a part of lot No. 8, beginning at the north-east corner of the second parcel of land lately purchased by Joseph Taylor, by the north side …

Yet no building appears to have been begun until 1766, when Beverly Robinson, Jeremiah Drake, Caleb Ward, Isaac Hatfield and Charles Moore were appointed trustees (by certain subscribers, both in Cortlandt' s manor and the lower end of Philipse's upper patent, towards the erecting of a church,) for directing and carrying on a building, and for securing it to the inhabitants as …

"George the Third, by the Grace of God, of Great Britain, France and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, &c, to all to whom these presents shall come, greeting: Whereas, our loving subjects, Beverly Robinson, Charles Moore, Jeremiah Drake, Caleb Ward, John Johnson , Joshua Kelson, Thomas Davenport and Henry Purdy, on behalf of themselves and sundry inhabitants on the upper …

No one being willing to encourage the pious intentions of our said loving subjects, and to grant this their reasonable request, know ye, that of our especial grace, certain knowledge and mere motion, we have ordained, given, granted and declared, and by these presents for us, our heirs and successors, do ordain, give, grant and declare, that the said petitioners and such other …

Peter's church, in the manor of Cortlandt, near Peekskill. And them and their successors by the sa ne name, we do by these presents, for us, our heirs and successors, really and fully make, erect, create and constitute one body politic and corporate in deed, fact and name, for ever, and will give, grant and ordain that thejr and their successors, the rector and members of St …

skill, by the same name shall aud may have perpetual succession, and shall and may be capable in law to sue and be sued, impleade and be impleaded, answer aud be answered unto, defend and be defended in all courts and elsewhere in all manner of actions, suits, complaints, pleas, causes, matters and demands 'whatsoever, as fully and amply as any our liege subjects of our said …

And our will and pleasure further is, and we do hereby for us, our heirs and successors, ordain and appoint that there shall be forever hereafter belonging to the said church, one rector of the Church of England as by law established, duly qualified for the cure of souls, two churchwardens and six vestrymen, who shall conduct and manage the affairs and business of the said …

Peter's church, in the manner of Cortlandt. near Peekskill, shall meet at the said church, and there by the majority of voices of such of them as shall so meet, elect aud choose two of their members to be church-wardens, and six others of their members to be vestrymen of the said church for the ensuing year, which said church-wardens and vestrymen so elected and chosen shall …

And in this case for the more due and orderly conducting the said elections, and to prevent any undue proceediugs therein, we do hereby give full power and authority to ordain and require that the rector and the said church-wardens of the said church, for the time being, or any two of them, shall appoint the time for such election and elections, and that the rector of said …

And our royal will and pleasure further is, and we do hereby for us, our heirs and successors, give and grant, that as well the church-wardens and vestrymen to these presents nominated and appointed as such, as shall from time to time be hereafter elected and chosen as is herein directed, shall have and they are hereby invested with full power and authority to execute their …

And we do hereby give, grant, and ordain that the said rector and one of the said church-wardens, for the time being at least, together with the majority of the said vestrymen of the said church for the time being, being met in vestry as above directed, shall ferever hereafter have, and they are hereby invested with full power and authority by the majority of their voices, to …

near Peek skill, any wise touching or relating to such lands, messuages and tenements, real and personal estate whatsoever, as they the said rector and members of said church in the manor of Courtlandt, near Peekskill, shall or may acquire for the use of the said church, and also in like manner to order, direct, ina age and transact the general interest, business and affairs …

And whereas there hath not yet been any minister presented or inducted to the said church, our royal will and pleasure therefore is, that until the said church shall be supplied with a minister of the Church of England, as by law established, as is herein after mentioned, and also in case of every avoidance of the said church thereafter, either by the death of the rector …

And we do by these presents, for us, our heirs and successors, give and grant that the patronage and advowson of the said church, and the right of presentation thereto, shall forever thereafter belong to and appertain, and is hereby vested in the church-wardens and vestrymen of the said church for the time being, or the majority of them forever, whereof one church- warden …

To Lave and to hold, all and singular, the privileges, liberties, advantages and immunities hereby granted or meant, mentioned or intended so to be, unto them the said rector and members of St. Peter's church, in the manor of Cortlandt, near Peekskill, and to their successors forever. In testimony whereof we have caused these our letters to be made patent, and the great seal …

Jeremiah Drake, vestrymen. The charter being read, they proceeded to choose Mr. John Johnson, clerk for the present year. Resolved, to sett a subscription on foot in favor of Mr. John Doty, and endeavour to settle him as our minister. Also, resolved, that although the subscription mentions to be paid yearly, yet all those who shall subscribe to ye support of a minister, upon …

Samuel Auchmuty, D.D., for the payment of ^40 New York currency towards the minister's support."0 The following copies^of the letter and petition are from the MSS. of the Ven. Society: -- a Book of Patents, Secretary of State's office, Albany. 6 Vestry book of St. Peter's church, Peekskill, pp. L % c Ditto, pp. 2, 3. THE TOWN OF CORTLANDT. THE CHURCH WARDENS AND VESTRY OF ST …

Governor Colden for a charter, which he was pleased to grant us. Being so far advanced in our undertaking, Mr. John Doty, a gentleman educated at King's College in New York, offered himself as a candidate for our church, and has performed divine service for us most part of last summer; and has given such general satisfaction, that we have unanimously agreed to give him a call …

The church is in a very thickly settled country, (tho' no kind of public worship is established in the neighborhood) yet at present there are but very few that profess to be of the Church of England, which makes it fall very heavy upon those few, so heavy, that we could not have gone thro' with our undertaking but by entering into an agreement with the people on the lower end …

It would give us great pleasure if we could inform the Venerable Society of our having a glebe and parsonage house provided, but that we are sorry to say is not yet accomplished. The people that make up our congregation are so very poor, that we have been discouraged from attempting to purchase a piece of land for that use. But we can nevertheless assure the Venerable Society …

" That your petitioners, in conjunction with the rest of the people who from the congregations of the churches aforesaid, having for some time labored under the lamentable circumstance of not enjoying an opportunity of publickly worshiping God in the decent and solemn order of the established Church of England, whose evangelical doctrine and discipline they profess and admire …

church, and also for the neighborhood of Jacob Mandeville, in the lower end of Philipse's patent, in Dutchess county, where it is intended to build another church to be united as one congregation, and that they have cheerfully subscribed to the amount of j£(n 15s. New York, currency, towards supporting him as such. But sensible that" such a sum is not sufficient for that …

John Doty, A.M., the first rector of this parish, was the son of Joseph Doty of New York, where he was borncirc. 1750. 6 In 1768 he was entered at Kings College, where he was admitted B. A. pro forma in 1770. During the Summer of that year he officiated in this parish as a lay reader, and in the fall went to England for holy orders. His license from the Bishop of London, to …

6 Joseph Doty was a member of the ancient family of the Doughty's or Donteys of Esher, Surrey and Boston, Lincolnshire, England. There was a Samuel Doty graduated at Vale College in 1733. The arms of this family are :-- ar, two bars, between three mullets of six points sa. pierced or. " The Rev Samuel Doghty, rector of Sibleston, was a younger brother of the polite and …

Captain General and Governor-in-Chief in and over the Province of New York and the Territories depending thereon in America, Chancellor and Vice Admiral of the same, Do institute you John Doty, Clerk, to be Rector of the parish of St. Peter's, in the manor of Cortlandt, near Peekskill, in ye County of Westchester in the said Province, to the care of the souls of the …

Captain General ami Governor-in-Chief in and over the Province of New York and the Territories depending thereon in America, Chancellor and Vice Admiral of the same, To all and singular, Rectors and Parish Ministers whatsoever in the Province of New York, or to the churchwardens and vestrymen of the Parish of St. Peter's in the manor of Cortlandt, near Peekskill, in the County …

and parish church, with all their rights, members and appurtenances, (observing the laws and caunous of right iu that behalf required, and to be observed :) To you therefore, jointly and severally, I do commit, and firmly enjoining do command, each and every of you, that in due manner, biin the said John Doty, Clerk, or his lawful proctor in his name, or for him, into the real …

During this year Governor Tryon also granted a special charter, in virtue whereof the vestry held a certain glebebof two hundred acres of land given by Colonel Beverly Robinson, senior warden of this parish, for the use of the Rector officiating one half of his time at St. Philipse's in the Highlands. This property was subsequently sold, as we shall have occasion to show …

When the Revolutionary controversy commenced, he was living upon that portion of the Philipse estate which had been given to his wife, and there he desired to remain in the quiet enjoyment of country life, and in the management of this large domain That such was his inclination, is asserted by the late President Dwight, and is fully confirmed by circumstances and by his …

Colonel Robinson was employed to conduct several matters of consequence, and he figures conspicuously in cases of defection from the Whig cause. Colonel Robinson at the peace, with a part of his family, went to England. The name appears as a member of the first Council of New Brunswick, but he never took his seat at that board. His wife is included in the confiscation act of …

We return to the history of the parish. Upon the 23d of March, 1772, it was resolved by the vestry: -- "To go and build Mr. Doty a house -- also to agree with Jercdiah Frost to get the timber, draw the same, (viz : the boards and other materials which he may want for the said house) to do all the carpenter's and joiner's work, and paint and glaze the same for seventy-five …

Andrews, with the former salary." The Society, however, were greatly displeased at his removal, and through their secretary informed him, " That the circumstances under which he left his congregation at Peekskill do not raise him in the opinion of the Society, to whom his conduct, in that particular, hath been reported to his disadvantage, and as an act of ingratitude."a He …

Doty continued missionary at this place until 1793." " It is with concern, (says the Society) that it has received information that they are deprived of the useful services of this worthy missionary, (Mr. John Doty) by his removal into his native country, to take charge of St. Anne's church, at Brooklyn, on Long Island, in the Province of New York." (abstracts of 1794.) His …

M., who was licensed by the Bishop of London, August 24th, 1772, appointed to Wyoming parish, Pennsylvania, from whence he removed to this Province. Mr. Page does not appear to have officiated here very long ; and no doubt left in consequence of the breaking out of the Revolutionary war. Several persons of this name were graduates of Harvard University, and staunch loyalists …

Andrew Fowler, in the year 1793, we learn: -- "That three or four years ago the Presbyterians made an attempt to take -the church and glebe by force; they called the church by a new name ' Union Church' and in order to carry their schemes they chose one half of the trustees as they said, out of the church. The truth is they had once professed themselves Episcopalians; but most …

According to notice given on Monday, 5th of April, 1790, being Monday in Easter week, (the day appointed by charter for choosing officers for St. Peter's church, in the Manor of Cortlandt and St. Philip's chapel in the Highlands,) the following persons were elected for the ensuing year, viz: Wm. Dunning and Caleb Ward, church-wardens; Joshua Nelson, James Spock, Richard A …

He was the son of Andrew Fowler, a lineal descendant of John Fowler one of the original planters of Guilford, Conn., in 1639 or 1640, by his wife Martha Stone, and was born at Guilford, 10th of June, 1760. He graduated A.B. at Yale in 1783, and received his A.M. degree in i793-c In 1784, he had charge of a school at New Rochelle, and the year following was chosen the first …

He commenced his labors as a preacher of the gospel over the united parishes of Brookhaven, Huntington and Oyster Bay, L. I. He remained there but two years, when he was called, as we have seen, to the rectorship of this parish. Upon the 7th of August, 1792, the vestry agreed with the Rev. Andrew Fowler, to officiate as rector, and to pay him for his services the sum of ^70." …

Philip's chapel, in Phillipstown, now in connection together, and that the induction into St. Peter's shall be made on Sunday, the 6th of next January; and the induction of St. Philip's chapel, whenever convenience will permit." Upon the 4th of January, 1794, the thanks of the vestry were given to Pierre Van Cortlandt for the great pains he had taken at the Legislature of this …

"The Charleston Gospel Messenger for February, contains an obituary notice from which we extract the following particulars: -- 'It may be truly said of the departed he was a great missionary* In five or more of our Dioceses he officiated for more or less time; but the greater part of his ministerial life, that is about forty years, was passed in South Carolina. He was the …

" More contentment, with the allotments of Divine Providence ; more cheerfulness in narrow circumstances ; more confidence in God, as respected himself and family; more meekness in his intercourse with men; more resignation in sickness, sightlessness, adversity, bereavement and the last conflict, I have not witnessed. I might specify incidents known to several present. To one …

Palmer and others; for at a vestry meeting held on the 6th of November, 1801, it was ordered: -- "That the doors of the churches (St. Peter's and St. Philip's) be shut against Mr. Palmer for the future." In the year 1803, Mr. James Mandeville paid the wardens and vestrymen for " one year's rent of the parsonage farm, ending 15th of April, ^35; and to one year's rent of the …

John Brown were selected to supply the vacant congregations at Peekskill and Philipstown." The following year the Rev. Adam Empie (chaplain and professor in the military Academy at West Point) reported : -- " That in compliance with the appointments made at the last Convention he has performed divine services, and preached two Sundays at Philipstown and two Sundays at …

At a vestry meeting held January 4th, 1828, Pierre Van Cortlandt, James Wiley and John Oppie were appointed a committee to rent the glebe farm, and also to petition the Chancellor for leave to sell the same, &c. Permission was accordingly granted on the 1 oth of November, 1828, and on the 20th of October, 1838, the glebe was sold for the sum of five thousand dollars. On the …

h The vestery on February 22d, 1817, "refused to allow the Independent Congregation to occupy a part of the church and further consideration." c This application appears to have been made without a formal meeting of the vestry. d The Rev. Edward J. Ives in his report to tho Diocesan Convention of 1S29, says : " A new congregation has also been organized in the village of …

Peter's church, at Peekskill, which church was by the desire of Beverly Robinson, Esq., Messrs. Jeremiah Blake, Caleb Ward, Isaac Hatfield and Charles Moore, trustees, appointed by the subscribers to said church for directing and carrying on said building, and for securing it to the inhabitants as a place of public worship, according to the establishment of the Church of …

Robinson, as we have seen, was included with her husband in the confiscation act of New York, and at the peace accompanied him to England. She died at Thornbury, near Bath, in 1822, at the age of ninetyfour. The chapel of St. Peter's, which was erected in i838,rt as auxiliary to the mother church, is a handsome gothic structure of wood, situated near the centre of the village …

There is a noble and deep toned bell in the tower, which summons the parishioners every Lord's day to the house of prayer by its rich and solemn sounds. "This was a gift in every way worthy of the venerable individual whose name is graven upon it, the late Gen. Pierre Van Cortlandt, for many years senior warden, to whose family the parish is not only indebted for the original …

The organ presented by the ladies of the parish in 1849, was also built by the Messrs. Holbrook & Co., and cost twelve hundred dollars. The corner stone of this edifice, which was organized under the title of St. Paul's church, in 1829, was laid by Bishop Onderdonk in 1838; and upon Saturday, June 1 6th, of that year, it was consecrated and set apart to the worship and service …

Mitchell, Esq., who was unfortunately killed by the explosion of the steamer General Jackson, off Verplanck's Point, June 7th, 183 r. The church was first incorporated 19th July, 1838, under the title of the "Wardens and Vestrymen of St. Peter's chapel, in the village of Peekskill," on which occasion Pierre Van Cortlandt and Samuel Marks, were elected wardens, and Daniel D …

c Trinity Church in 1T9T presented the sum of $750 to St. Peter's church. In 1S07, £1,250 for St. Peter's and St. Philip's. In 1S26, $750. In 1S37, $250, and in 1S39, $1,000. Total $4,000. HISTORY OF THE COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. RECTORES DE CORTLANTjT. Vacated. Patrons. Per Resignation, Wardens and Vestry, Inst. Rectors. 16 July, 1771, Rev. John Doty, CI., A. M., 18 Sept. 1775 …

16 Sept. 1873, Rev. William Fisher Lewis, Presb., present rector. The assistant minister of the parish is the Rev. H. M. Torbert, who is also chaplain at St. Gabriel's School. This school is under the charge a Dierl at North Andovor, Mass., Jan. 24, 1S49. Rector of St. Paul's, Portland, Mo., from ISIS to 1831. From 1SS1 to 1837, rector of Saccacappa, when he removed to …

Mary who have admirably succeeded by great personal exertion in making practical the idea, of a female boarding school, where solid attainments, correct notions of woman's exact position in society, and a healthy growth of mind, heart and body can be attained to the exclusion of more pretentious accomplishments; finery in dress and that abominable theory that woman is a mere …

Among the illustrious dead interred here, may be mentioned Major- General Seth Pomeroy, one of the heroes of Bunker Hill. On the west side of the grave yard is situated the monument of John Paulding. The following is the report of the select committee, appointed in pursuance of a resolution of the board of common council, passed the 4th day of December, 1826, during the …

The base of the monument covers a square of seven feet, surrounded by an iron railing, four feet in height, and two feet seven inches distant, inserted in a marble coping fourteen inches broad, comprehending a square of twelve feet two inches. One side of the monument exhibits a facsimile of the face of the medal, voted by the Congress of the United States to each of the …

On their own deserved monuments,) He intercepted the British spy, Andre : Poor Himself He disdained to acquire wealth by the sacrifice of HIS COUNTRY. Rejecting the temptation of great rewards He conveyed his prisoner to the American camp ; And By this act of noble self-denial. The treason of Arnold was detected, The designs of the enemy baffled ; West Point and the American …

the inhabitants of Westchester County, who had come to assist in the last honors, to the memory of their fellow citizen. Among them were many aged and venerable men, who passed through the perils of the revolution and shared its dangers with the deceased. A procession was formed to the church yard, where the monument stands, about two and a half miles from the village of …

Our little army, the last reliance of the country, was cooped up at West Point, almost the last refuge of liberty remaining. Had that army, with its illustrious commander, been treacherously surrendered, and that strong-hold given up to the enemy, the communication between Canada and New York, then in his possession, would have been open -- the North and the South could no …

I see among you many venerable and aged men who bore a part in the struggle, and shared in the hardships, anxieties, dangers and sufferings of those dismal times. I see at the head of these, a faithful and gallant officer, still happily and honorably surviving to enjoy that invaluable freedom which his own efforts contributed to secure.*1 I see, too, among them one who was …

He will tell you of the capture of Andre, who from a spy, was elevated by a false estimate and a mistaken sympathy, into a hero and a martyr -- of the temptations which had corrupted the second man in the nation's estimation, being rejected by the sons of the farmers of Westchester -- of the delivery of the spy into the hands of the great good man of the age -- of modern times …

Like many now present, he was the son of a plain country farmer, who cultivated his own fields with his own hands : and he received such an education only, as is now within the reach of every honest man's son in these United States. He had nothing to boast of but a vigorous, active, well-proportioned frame, a daring spirit, and an honest heart. His means and opportunities were …

Bear then in mind, my friends, and impress it on the hearts of your children, and upon all that shall nestle in old age under your withered branches, that as all are equally called upon to protect and defend their country, so there is not one of them all but may one day be placed in a situation like John Paulding, to confer a lasting benefit on his country, and like lum, to …

The first Reformed Dutch church located in this village, stood on the hill west of the Episcopal church, adjoining the Diven property. Nothing remains at present to mark its site, save a small enclosure containing a few interments. In this cemetery is a plain marble monument to the memory of Lieut. George McChain, which bears the following truly clasical inscription, composed …

a frail memorial of their veneration for his virtues, and a faint testimony of their grief for. a misfortune, alas! indelibly engraven on their hearts. He died on the 19th day of October, 1818, Aged 32 years. Also monuments to the memory of his father John McChain, one of the Westchester guides in the revolutionary war, and the Rev. Allen Blair, who departed this life June 14 …

As early as 1799 a church edifice was erected upon this spot, upon lands devoted by Nathaniel Brown, a Friend. " To the Presbyterians of the belief of Dr. Rodgers of New York," with James Diver, John Oppie and Stephen Brown, trustees. The principal benefactors of the church were Stephen Brown and his mother-in-law, Mrs. Hannah Brewer. Dr. James Brewer, of this place, during …

Samuel Sackett was sent by the Presbytery of New Brunswick to preach in West Chester County. The special field of labor assigned him was Cortlandt Manor, embracing Yorktown, Cortlandtown, North Salem and Somers. There is little doubt that he preached occasionally in this village. His ministry of forty-two years (i742-'84) was chiefly confined to Yorktown and Bedford." " He …

Some years later the influence of a large congregational element from Connecticut gave great dissatisfaction to some who preferred the faith and government of the Presbyterian church, and in 1826 a division took place. Those who remained were finally merged into the Dutch Reformed Church. Those who withdrew founded the present Presbyterian Society." We give the details of the …

Leggett, then a member of the Second Presbytery of New York. The call was accepted and Mr. Leggett was installed first pastor of this church on December 14th, 1826. This pastorate continued three years, and was marked by a gradual increase in the number of communicants. Ten were added to the church under his ministry, seven on profession of faith and three by certificate …

He had the respect and the affectionate regard of all his brethren in the ministry. They looked upon him as one of the best, and in some respects, as one of the most gifted among them. While he was not popular as a preacher, he was yet an able and excellent sermonizer. He had great strength and fertility of mind, and many of his written discourses are marked by decided …

Marshall, unfortunate dissensions sprung up in the church, which resulted, in 1841, in the withdrawal of nine members, who, together with two members from the second Congregational church of New London, Conn., were organized into a church on Nov. 17th, 1 841, by the Presbytery of North River, and became the second Presbyterian church of Peekskill, in connection with the New …

Twelve years later, in 1S58, an extension of thirty feet, including the present lecture room, was added -- making the present dimensions forty feet by ninety, instead of forty by sixty. The dimensions of the original edifice, were thirty by forty." THE TOWN OF CORTLANDT. Dr. Halliday's pastorate was of unusual length, extending over a period of twenty-four years. The …

This church, since 21st day of June, 1870, has remained under the care of the Presbytery of Westchester. Toward the close of Mr. Haliday's ministry, a lot had been secured immediately opposite the church, at a cost of $3,750, for the erection of a parsonage. In the spring of 1870, the building was completed, at an additional cost of $9,800, and is considered one of the …

This society was organized Nov. 17th, 1841, and the first structure was erected A. D. 1845, and dedicated to the service of God, 9th of April, 1S45 ; the society was incorporated by its present name, July 29th, 1846. In 1870 the church edifice was enlarged and rebuilt. The first pastor was the Rev. Daniel Brown, who was installed May 4th, 1842, and who died November 8th, 1S46 …

Whereas the society of people called Baptists, by way of voluntary subscription, have lately erected and built a house of public worship at or near a place called Peekskill, in the manor of Cortlandt, and as there is not as yet a sufficient sum of money raised to pay for the building said house, we the subscribers do agree upon and appoint Caleb Hall, of the said manor of …

The present society was organized La 1843, under the style and title of the First Baptist Church of Peekskill. The meeting-house, which is valued at $3,400, was erected August, 1847, and dedicated the 8th of April, 1847, to the service of Almighty God. On this occasion the Rev. W. R. Williams, D.D., delivered the dedicatory sermon. This church belongs to the senior Baptist …

THE TOWN OF CORTLANDT. February, 1795, we find John Drake and Catharine, his wife, conveying three-quarters of an acre of land in this place to William Hallock, Thomas Clark, William Weeks, Abraham Travis and Stephen Newby, managers of the Methodist society. The present church edifice, erected A.D., 1837, occupies the site of a still older building, erected in 181 1 : to it is …

The Roman Catholic Institutions are the Franciscan Convent, which was established about nine years ago, and is situated on the banks of the Hudson near the Rail Road Depot. At present there are about thirty sisters connected with the institution, who conduct a school known at the Academy of Our Lady of Angels. The object of the community is teaching the children of the poor …

The amount of the bequest was $50,000. Mount Florence was purchased by the Sisters of the Good Shepherd for the purpose of establishing a novitiate for their order. The number of sisters is at present seven. This novitiate is intended for the training a Religious Soc. Lib. B. p. 4T. HISTORY OF THE COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. of sisters for their future labor in caring for and …

The Village landing is pleasantly situated at the foot of a high bank, commanding a fine view of Peekskill Bay, the Dunderbarrach, Rahway Hook, and the entrance to the Highlands; directly opposite is Caldwell's Landing, in Rockland county, with which the Westchester shore is connected by a ferry. Across this ferry the American troops were frequently transported during the …

Gregory's brook (sometimes called Magrigarie's creek,) rises in Magrigarie's pond, a few miles east of the village. This rapid stream, after flowing through a deep and wooded glen, empties into the Hudson near the landing place. The romantic hills which abound in the immediate vicinity of Peekskill are many of them connected with stirring events during the revolutionary war …

" Iu the summer of the year 1780, and for some time preceding and following, on the southern and eastern sides of the hill, and along the rich valley which lies at its base, was quartered a division of the American army under the command of Gen. Putnam. Disaffection and treachery prevailed on every side ; men there were who from fear or from other base causes, refused to take …

Early one mornimg, in the month of August, a party of the militia, three in number, brought a young man by the name of Palmer, whom they had taken on suspicion of his being a spy and having enlisting orders from Tryon, the British general then commanding iu New York. The enormity of his offence was such that if proved, it demanded the most vigorous punishment. A court martial …

The most urgent intercessions were immediately made to obtain his release, but in vain ; the stern justice of Putnam was not to be overcome by any feelings of pity. The British general wrote a letter to the American commander, demanding his prisoner, and threatening him with vengeance if a compliance with his demand was not immediately acceded to ; but he received for answer …

She implored him, by every tie of affection that bound two young hearts together-- for the sake of the infant she pressed to her bosom, who, if left fatherless, would wander through the world disgraced and au orphan -- by his own feelings as a father and a husband, to have mercy on him who was all to her the world could bestow. Her tears, her deep distress and hei- passionate …

The trees and fences were rilled with men, women and children who had come far and near to witness the awful scene ; and the prisoner was led out to the appointed spot where his last view of the world was taken, and prepare his mind for its sudden transit into eternity. It is but just to say. that whether hung guilty or innocent, he met his fate with the fortitude of a man …

Smith) two enterprizes for the destruction of American stores were undertaken. Col. Bird landed with about 500 men at Peekskill, March 23, fifty miles from New York. The few Americans who were stationed as a guard at this place, on the approach of the British, fired the principal store-houses and retired. The loss of the provisions was considerable."6 " September, 1777, the …

Major Burr was stationed at Peekskill on the 21st July, 1777, when he received a lieutenant colonel's commission in the continental army, and from this place the traitor Arnold likewise received his appointment to West Point, dated August the 3d, 1780. In the village of Peekskill was born John Paulding, one of the American farmers who intercepted Andre the British spy, at …

Major Andre, who was returning to New York after having in the character of a spy concerted measures with the infamous Benedict Arnold, then commanding at the posts in the Highlands, for betraying the said posts into the hands of the enemy, and for his virtue in refusing a large sum of money offered by the said Major Andre as a bribe to permit, him to escape ; and for and in …

"Also, another tract, part of farm No. 13. in great north lot No. 1. containing 21 acres. Also, another part of farm No. 13, in great lot No. 1, and is part of the land which Palatiah Haws purchased for Thomas Lee in Magragaria swamp, 10 acres. Also, another part of farm No. 15, a part of great north lot No. 1, 37 acres."& a Burr's Mem., Vol 1. 180. b County Rec. RegUter's …

"The British who were iu possession of Stony Point, and whose shipping lay m the bay of Haverstraw, resolved upon landing a portion of their men on Yerplanck's Point, a ad from thence make a descent upon Peekskill. Their object in this expedition was to procure fresh provisions and to awake the energies of the Americans who were encamped in the village and in various places …

Unable to move, he lay bleeding and in agony, until a wagon filled with provisions hastily collected by a bold and resolute man ere they left the scene of commotion, passing by, he was perceived by those who followed after, who immediately picked him up and placed him thereon. They conveyed him as far as Fishkill village, nineteen miles distant ; but loss of blood and the …

"Fishkill, March 27- -- Our post at Peck's-kill, since the removal of the militia of the eastern States has been, in a maimer, iu a defenceless situation ; there being o. ly part of two regiments stationed there, under the care of Gen McDougal, amounting to about 250 men. The enemy having received intelligence of tins formed an expedition thither, with a view to take or …

Willet having accordingly made the necessary disposition, advanced withliis small party with the greatest firmness and resolution, and made the attack. The enemy instantly fled, with the greatest precipitation, leaving three men dead on the field; and the whole body, panic struck, betook themselves to their shipping, embarking under cover of the night -- and by the last …

Notwithstanding the disparity of numbers was great, and the measure absolutely necessary, it was with the utmost reluctance they retired to the pass. As usual, these heroes of Britain have burnt so.:.e houses, plundered the inhabitants of what they could conveniently take with 158 HISTORY OF THE COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. them, frightened the women and children, and raised the …

From this point a most magnificent view is obtained of the village of Peekskill in the gorge below, the . mountains bounding the horizon on three sides and the Hudson winding like a tangled belt of silver at their bases. Northward the hill falls precipitously into the valley, and through that valley winds the Annsville creek and Canopus or Sprout brook. On a green slope …

This portion of her estate she subsequently devised to her nephew Gilbert Van Cortlandt, who in 1784, bequeathed it to his loving brother Pierre Van Cortlandt. Here are situated' an extensive snuff and wire factory, both propelled by water power, and the chemical works ; also some thirty dwellings. The Peekskill Blast Furnace is located on the Annsville creek and is connected …

The Indian children of the west have the following exquisite chant to this flitting white-fire insect as they denominate it : -- "Fire-fly, fire-fly, bright little thing, Bright little fire bug, night's liltle king." -- SchoolcrofV a Oneota. Near the banks of the Canopus, or Peekskill hollow, is situated the site of the old Continental village, which once contained barracks …

I need not point out to your excellency the consequence of destroying this post, as it was the only establishment of the rebels on that part of the Highlands, and the place from whence any body of troops drew their supplies."" The Hudson River Rail Road Bridge now crosses the mouth of the Peekskill creek near Annsville, where the old bridge formerly stood, leading to Roa or …

Van Cortlandt's are situated the remains of Fort Independence, whose history is so ina Supplement to n. Gaines' Military Gazette, Feb. 9, 1778, No. 1372. l6o HISTORY OF THE COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. separably interwoven with the stirring events of the Revolution. A small portion of its embankments and trenches are yet to be discerned The whole is shaded by a luxuriant grove of …

On the left he had the sublime prospect of the pallisade rocks, whose dark columnar front, like a towering battlement, with here and there a projection like tne salient angle of a bastion, presented perpendicular elevations from three to five hundred feet, and, ranging more than thirty miles uninterrupted, (except by the valley of the Nyack.) it at last exhibited an altitude …

This was directly opposite West Point. "<* "The Dundcr Berg (Thunder Mountain), that rises so grandly at the turn of the river opposite Pcekskill village, was so named because of the frequent thunder-storms that gather around its summit in summer. ' The captains of the river-craft,' says Irving, in his legend of the Storm-ship, "talk of a little bulbous-bottomed Dutch goblin …

Iler crew saw at the mast head a white sugar-loaf hat, and knowing that it belonged to the goblin of the Dunder Berg, dared not climb to get rid of it. The vessel sped swiftly through the Highlands into Newburg Bay, when the little hat suddenly sprung up, whirled the clouds into a vortex, and hurried them back to the Dunder Berg. " There is another story told of …

It may only be given here in faint outline. Many years ago an iron cannon was by accident brought up by an anchor from the bottom of the river at that point. It was suggested that it belonged to the pirate ship of Captain Kidd. A speculator caught the idea, and boldly proclaimed, in the face of recorded history to the contrary, that Kidd's ship had been sunken at that point …

Anthony's Nose, opposite, has a bit of romance in the legendary story of its origin. We are told by the veracious historian, Knickerbocker, that on one occasian Anthony the Trumpeter, who afterward disappeared in the turbulent waters of Spuytden Duyvel-Kill, was with Stuyvesant on a Dutch galley passing up the river. Early in the morning Anthony, having washed his face, and …

When Stuyvesant ate of the flesh and heard the strange story of its death, he " marvelled exceedingly ; " and in commemoration of the event he named the lofty lull, which rises more than twelve hundred feet above the bosom of the river "Anthony's Nose." As the steamboat sweeps round the Donder Berg, with Anthony's Nose on the right, the theatre of one of the most interesting …

That was on the 7th of October, 1777. Tiie brothers, Qenerals George (Governor) and James Clinton commanded the little garrison. They were brave and vigilant. It was not an easy task for the enemy to approach the fort through the rugged mountain passes, watched and attacked by scouting parties. They had divided, one party accompanied by the baronet, making their way toward …

These features oftheevent, with the booming of the cannon on the loaded vessels when the fire reached the .1, answered by echoes from a hundred hills, produced a scene of awful grandeur never witnessed before or since on the borders of the Hudson. It was a wild and fearful romance, that ended in the breaking of the boom and chain, and passage up the river of the British …

The captain, by the way, had an enormous nose, which was not unfrequently the subject of good-natured remark, and he at once understood the mate's allusion. 'What,' says the captain, 'does that look like my nose ? call it then, if you please Antony's Nose.' The story was repeated on shore, and the mountain thenceforward assumed the name ; and has thus become an everlasting …

The following statement is furnished by the engineer who is to superintend its construction: -- "Clear span, 1,600 feet; length of bridge between the towers, 1,665; total length of bridge, including approaches, 2,499; height of bridge above high water, 155 feet; working safe load for the rail road lines, 2,400 ton?; working safe load for highways, 2,880; total safe load for …

HISTORY OF THE COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. fill it. There are to be 20 cables in 4 systems; each cable will be about 14 inches diameter; the cables contain 371,195,750 feet of steel wire, or about 70,302 miles of steel wire; total weight of iron and steel in the bridge, 17,005 tons; total amount of masonry, 58,084 cubic yards; total suspended weight, 9,651 tons; height of towers …

At the death of Stephanus it passed by will to his oldest son Johannes second lord of the Manor of Cortlandt, and afterwards descended by marriage to Philip Verplanck, from whom the neck acquired its present appellation. This individual married Gertrude, only daughter and heiress of the above Johannes. In 1734, Verplanck's Point (consisting of one thousand acres) was held by …

a Monlton's Hist, of N'ew York, p. 271, see note. o Abrani Planck or Verplanck, was a farmer at Paulus noeck and one of the "Twelve Men" under Oeritom Kieft. in 1641. The "Twelve men "were all Hollanders or emigrants from Holland." lirodhead's Hist, of the State of N. Y., vol. i. p. 317. The late venerable Gulian C. Verplanck of N'ew York who was born Aug. 6, 17SC, and died …

These nine yards employ about 400 men and manufacture about 375,000 bricks per day, involving an expenditure for labor of about $78,000 for the brick making season of 130 days. A beautiful lake has been erected within the village through the indefatigable exertions of James A. Whitbeck, Esq. The spot occupied by the lake was formerly an unsightly morass, 97 acres in extent …

The advanced posts of the Americans at this time, on this side, did not extend lower than Peekskill," &c a "On the 27th," continues the same authority, "a deserter came in from Verplanck's Point, who reported that the British Army, except five or six regiments, were to leave the points, and were then embTrking. Soon after upwards of thirty sail of transports were seen standing …

Heath,) having been taken with so much eclat to the American arms, Gen. Washington determined an attempt on Verplank's Point, on the east side of the Hudson, and opposite to Stony Point. For this purpose Major Gen. Howe with two brigades and some 1 2-pounders on travelling, was ordered to proceed by the way of Peekskill, throw a bridge over the creek, move on the point, and …

An answer was returned, at what point the troops then were, and that they were marching as fast as the men could endure, and would continue so until they reached him. When the troops had advanced a little to. the westward of Drake's farm, Col. Mayland came up from Gen. Howe with information that a part of Clinton's army were then above the new bridge on Croton river, pushing …

Every moment that passed, was expected to announce the commencement of an action between the advanced or flanking parties of the two armies ; but it did not take place. At this moment Gen. Washington, having learnt how matters stood, and that possibly Gen. Clinton might attempt to push into the Highlands, sent an express to Gen. Heath, to mcwe into the Highlands immediately …

October 21st, 1779, three deserters came in from Verplanck's Point, and reported that the enemy were on the point of evacuating their works. The officer commanding the advanced picket, soon after sent information that the works appeared to be on fire, and the shipping standing down the river. Major Waldbridge, who commanded the advanced picket, immediately sent a detachment to …

Isawye British army, win n they laudea at Teller's Point and marched tip (in 1770 probably). They were encamped one night on t'ollabergh UU1, a short distance east of ye post road, and marched ye next day to Verplanck's Point. The liritish cavalry encamped one night or (so on ye hills 'near New' Castle Corner. McDonald MSS., in possession of George U. Moore, Esq.. of N. Y …

Smith crossed King's ferry from Stoney Point to Verplanck's Point, on the evening of a day in the week before last, in company with another man, and a negro boy was with him ; -- each of them had a horse. The day of the month I do not recollect. I have not seen the person since to know him. He had a black, blue or brown, great-coat on, a round hat, and a pair of boots. I did …

Willis remarks: "It is not easy to pass and repass the now peaceful and beautiful waters of this part of the Hudson, without calling to mind the scenes and actors in the great drama of the Revolution, which they not long ago bore on their bosom. The busy mind fancies the armed gun-boats slowly pulling along the shore, and the light pinnace of the Vulture flying to and fro on …

When I could no longer evade his importunity, I remarked to him as follows : "I had a much loved class-mate in Yale College by the name of Hale, who entered the army in 1775. Immediately after the battle of Long Island, Washington wanted information respecting the strength of the army; he went over to Brooklyn, and was taken just as he was passing the out-posts of the enemy …

Washington at his house, and washed to return as expeditiously as possible to meet him there. He also added another stimulating motive, by promising them two gallons of rum, if they would exert themselves with all their strength. As they approached King's Ferry, Arnold exposed to view a white handkerchief, and ordered the men to row directly to the Vulture, which was now in …

Sutherland, disdaining so pitiful an action -- though he did not interefere with the positive command of Arnold -- told the man that he would take his parole and he might go on shore and procure clothes and whatever else was wanted for himself and his companions. This was accordingly done the same day. When these men arrived in New York, Sir Henry Clinton, holding in just …

He commanded at Verplanck's Point, and from the proximity of his post to the enemy, and several concurring circumstances, might be very fairly presumed to have been either directly or indirectly concerned in Arnold's m;mceuvres. By a very laconic letter, Washington ordered that officer to come to him immediately. Livingston expected, at least, a severe scrutiny into his …

Let the reader imagine the grateful emotions of Col. Livingston, his increased esteem for his commander, and the alacrity with which, under such an impulse, he went back to his station of high trust and danger."" a Sparks' Life of Arnold, p. 241, 2-3. b Sparks' Life of Arnold, 249. c Sparks' Life of Arnold, p. 253. THE TOWN OF CORTLANDT. One of the most interesting …

The General observing it, told me he was sure I had not met with a good glass of wine for some time -- an article then very rare -- but that my disorder must be frightened away. He made me drink three or four of his silver camp cups of excellent Maderia at noon, and recommended to me to take a generous glass of claret after dinner; a prescription by no means repugnant to my …

Opposite the camp, and on distinct eminences, stood the tents of some of the general officers over which towered predominant that of Washington. I had seen all the camps in England, from many of which drawings and engravings have been taken ; but this was, truly, a subject worthy of the pencil of the first artist. The French camp, during their stay in Baltimore, was decorated …

I mention these minute particulars, because it is the HISTORY OF THE COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. General himself who breaks all his own horses. He is an excellent and bold horseman, leaping the highest fences, and going extremely quick, without standing upon his stirrups, bearing on the bridle, or letting his horse run wild ; circumstances which our young men look upon as so …

The mate, little anticipating that justice, though slow, is sure, and would follow him even to the Arctic circle, shot at the poor pilferer and killed him. The rest fled ; panic struck, and in their precipitance, some leaped into the water. The ship's boat was manned and sent to recover the articles ; one of those who had leaped into the water got hold of the boat for the …