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Where can I find historic photographs of Yorktown Heights online? (1865-1985) Thanks, Robwryter
interesting
AM LOOKING FOR INFO ABT PEEKSKILL,NY CAN'T SEEM TO FIND THEIR HISTORICAL SOCIETY LOOKING FOR INFO ON THE GOOD SHEPHERD HOME, PEEKSKILL,NY
Hello: Travels thru History, a new company specializing in history tours, is open for business. Please go to our website for more information on our offerings. http://www.travelsthruhistory.com While we offer personally-tailored tours on any historical topic, our foremost expertise is the Underground Railroad. Our proprietor is a leading authority and the author of two books on the subject that will be published this summer. He also is the creator of an exhibit on the Underground Railroad in northern New York, which will be part of a statewide exhibit being presented by the Harriet Tubman Museum in Auburn, N.Y. He is available to do PowerPoint presentations on the Underground Railroad. I hope you can make this information available to all interested persons. Thank you, Tom Calarco, Travels thru History, 518-372-0777
THANKS
I am trying to locate TOMPKINS Family members in the Yorktown-Shrub Oak area. My great-aunt was married to a Tompkins (Daniel). They had a farm in the Shrub Oak area during the 19 Century. I know that they had children. Are there possibly TOMPKINS Family members descended from my WHEELER-TOMPKINS connection? Thank you. Andrew Lester Wheeler III
This is first time on line with you. Very nice. The reason I was on it is because My Great Grandfather was from Yorktown. Born 1816. Mar 1836 to Harriet Losee From Somers. I have that record. I am still trying to find his Parents and B, S too. I have Harriet Family . F Samuel Losee Grf. Daniel Losee. But No maiden names for the wives. Would be glad to write anyone. I'm 81 Former Ninty niner. Flew in Airrace 1957 -1961 AWTAR. My husband Willard "Pete" Taylor Ran DE Kalb, -Taylor Airport for years. If I can be of help will be glad to do so. Gr. F was William A. Davenport.
I wonder if in celebrating the 50th anniversary of Lakeland High School the cornerstone of the Van Cortlandtville school was opened. I remember signing a roll of incoming students for the cornerstone. I don't know what else might have been in there. My father was the construction superintendent of the school. The construction was controversial at the time because of cost overruns associated with rock removal (buried across the street in McGregory Swamp. Henry Bruhl
To: David Louis Zugner I have fixed the spelling of your Grandfather's name on our web site. Apologies for the typo and thank you for calling it to our attention. Please click here to see the corrected article. Peggy, Webmaster
Regarding the request for information about the Amityville Horror House, Amityville (Long Island) is about 70 miles from Yorktown -- we do not have any information about it -- you might want to try a historical society on Long Island.
I want to know about the "Amityville Horror House"
I was recently at the Yorktown Museum and picked up a copy of the Spring 2002 newsletter. I enjoyed the article about the Lake Mohegan Fire Dept. I would like to make a correction in the spelling of the name of the first fire chief. It should be Louis ZUGNER. I know this because he was my grandfather. Thanks for your help in this matter. David Louis Zugner
This is an article I recently wrote for the neighborhood newsletter I put out, the Barger Beat. The area is in Putnam Valley, and a bit of it is in Yorktown Heights. At the time of the existence of the Lawson community, the area was called "Schrub Oak". I publish the newsletter to help build community, and publicize my Real Estate business. If you would like to share or publish the article, please do so with my blessing. I have photos if you want them. Feel free to edit as necessary. The only thing I ask, is that my byline include my name, as well as, “Mr. Heumann is a Realtor with Houlihan Lawrence in Yorktown Heights. He can be reached at (914) 245-2300 ext.227”. History February is Black History Month. Looking at our neighborhood today, few people would suspect any meaningful ties to Black History, but have I got a story for you! As you come up Barger Street, just past Stephen Smith Drive, we all pass two blue and white concrete columns on the right, roughly opposite a small sign for Larksburg Avenue. Some of us may realize that the columns are markers for a cemetery, variously known as the Lawson, Larksburg, or Emanuel Cemetery. It is here that the Rev. Bishop Robert C. Lawson and at least 30 of his family, friends, and disciples are laid to rest. Bishop Lawson was one of the Founding Fathers of the Pentecostal movement, and his followers today credit him with the creation of over 600 churches worldwide, with over 600,000 members. This one fact alone would make Bishop Larson the most important person ever to have an association with the Barger Street area, but there’s more…. Robert Lawson was born on May 5, 1883 in New Iberia, Louisiana. In 1913, at 20 years of age, Robert was a well-educated and ambitious young man, considering a career in Law, when he suddenly took ill. Diagnosed with tuberculosis, he was given little hope to survive. An elderly visitor, a “Holy Ghost Woman”, urged him to start praying—something he had never been in the habit of doing! One evening, while praying, an overwhelming Divine Vision came to him, saying, “Go preach my word…” He was healed, and the rest is history. He came to Harlem, and began his ministry. This lead to the creation of several churches, and his founding of the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Church, Inc. He became hugely successful. In 1932, he began a radio broadcast career that continued for almost 30 years, often “butting heads” with famous adversaries Father Divine and Daddy Grace. His influence and church-building spread nation-wide, and he followed up with a Foreign Mission program. Bishop Lawson traveled all over the world many times, establishing churches in the West Indies, Africa, and elsewhere. He was also quite the entrepreneur. Near his main church, he also owned a Day Care Center, print shop, grocery store, book and record store, and funeral home (he eventually owned four). In 1926 he founded the Church of Christ Bible Institute, a seminary which was accredited by the NYS Board of Regents. He was also a prolific author and composer of religious songs. In 1951, Lawson was presented the Carver Award of Merit. To put this in perspective, other recipients include Eleanor Roosevelt, Jackie Robinson, William Randoph Hearst, Joe Louis, and Darryl Zanuck. In 1954, the Star of Ethiopia Medal was presented to him by Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie. And in 1957, he spoke at the first March on Washington, along with two younger ministers- Rev. Ralph J. Abernathy and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. A bit closer to home, in the area near the cemetery, Bishop Lawson established a summer colony for middle-class Afro-Americans in 1927. The Emanuel Inn had 20 rooms, a swimming pool, garage, gas station, and grocery store, set on 121 acres. Ads for the Inn show rates of $8 a week for children, and $12 a week for adults. The foundations of the hotel and gas station are still visible. There were numerous other summer homes built around the Inn, some of which are in use today as full-time residences. Lawson’s friend, attorney George D. Lark, who is also interred here, owned a home with 200 acres. Larksburg Avenue is named after him. Bishop Larson had his own personal 66 acre farm, which he shared with the Refuge Temple Boy Scouts. Bishop Larson passed away on June 30th 1961, at the age of 78. He chose to rest here, amid the serenity he so enjoyed. A remarkable man, an historic figure who did so much for so many, Robert C. Larson seems to have gradually faded into obscurity. I am very happy to rekindle awareness of him in our community, and honor his memory this Black History Month. By his farmhouse door he wrote from a favorite poem, “Let me live in the house by the side of the road and be a friend to man”. May we walk in his footsteps.
Like your town very much ,Not enough time there. Also like the this too. My ggfather Wm. A Davenport Was born there accoding to his son mar. record. Jan. 20 1816 Mar. to Harriet Losee of Somers July 13 1836. Looking for his Parents Bro and Sis. He had 10 ch. Mary E. , Bowsey Augusta, James Samuel, William Henry, John, Almire, Minnervia, all born in Ny. Niles Frost, Derlin Clapp, My Grfather, And no. 10 Harriet died at birth All in De KAlb, IL.Any help really welcome
great grandfather william e.purdy esq. in new castle ny had 14 children from 1851-1882. grandfather william e. purdy 1868-1947 blacksmith/carriage maker in ossining and for durant co. tarrytown. followed durant to elizabeth nj to durant/chevrolet plant. father william e. purdy west orange nj 40/yr teacher of airframe/aircraft expert flew pres. roosevelt to yalta as flight engineer. need help to look back from william e. purdy esq. of new castle ny 1850's and before. regards, edward stephen purdy livingston, nj
Would like information on how to get into the tax records for assessments of properties located in Yorktown, Va. I'm interested in what properties are going for, may have interest in relo. Thanks a bunch for you time and effort. Linda D
To some this may be a stupid question. However, out of curiosity I am asking it. Which Hallock was the Hallock Mill Pond and Road in Westchester, NY named after? Thank you
I am working on a piece of historical fiction about someone in Revolutionary times. I am researching what kinds of records existed back then (property deeds, wills, school records, etc.) that might still exist now and where they would be located--libraries, offices...any leads would be appreciated. Thank you.
Hello, I am investigating the possible use of hooks and eyes as tent flap closures on Revolutionary era tents. Since there were large tent encampments during the siege of Yorktown, I believe your site might be a place these may have shown up. These hooks and eyes would be larger than those used on garments of the period. Can you be of any assistance? I greatly appreciate any heil you can give me. I plan top write a short article on this subject for Brigade of the American Revolution and possibly the Company of Military historians. Thank you, Bob Cairns
umm where r the haunted houses?
I would like to know if your historical society has any of the Sanborn Fire Insurance Company atlases, or the Mueller Atlas of the early 20th century. Thank you Sincerely, Hugh Goodman Architectural Historian
What a wonderful means of learning about the past of this historically-rich area and a moment to go down memory lane. Having had grandparents who moved to Yorktown in the late 1940's when the NY Central passed through the center of town near Horton's Feed and Supply, unpaved roads, cows crossing Rt.202 and my family's move in 1955 to the Amawalk area (the old Mullen's farmland)... I am blessed to have all fond memories of Yorktown. I know many of Yorktown's graduates share similar wonderful memories with wonderful surroundings and people. Having watched the growth and change of farmland area into the suburban community, I consider myself fortunate to have grown up here, raised my family, worked here and can now welcome the fourth generation of our family to Yorktown living. Great Job! Karen (Flugrath) Vicinanza (YHS 1960)
Dear Madam or Sir: I sent in an application for membership to the Yorktown Historical Society on October 10, along with a check. The check was cashed on October 26; it is now November 26. I was hoping to receive by now some sort of communication from the Society as well as the promised map of the Yorktown area. So far, no response. I have also left this same message on your voice mail. Please respond.
I have pictures of 7 members of the Harlem Globetrotters. The first U.S. black pro baseball team. They include, Clarence Williams, Ulysses Redd,John Keene, Larry Cunningham, Ted Dixon, Willie Patterson (catcher), and Lonnie Davis. Could you please let me know where I might find out more information on these photos? Thank-you, Tana
Greetings! Family history has it that an ancestor (Nelson Burdick) worked on the Croton Dam in 1841, and apparently died while doing so. Does anyone know where I can get additional information? Death Certs...records...anything?? Thanks Michael
Cool!
To Creativeblank@hotmail: To find the history of your former house in Mohegan Lake, you can start with the Town Assessor's office and work back. You will eventually end up in the Westchester Co. Land Records Division for the earliest deeds. This kind of research requires you to be here physically. If you live out of the area, and your house is a very old one (pre 1900), the museum MAY have information on it that they can share. Click on the links button and go to their website for more information. Linda Kiederer
To Kathryn Griffin: If you are looking for a death record for your grandmother, write to the Town Clerk, 363 Underhill Ave., Yorktown Hts., NY 10598. Otherwise, the Yorktown Museum has information on the Griffin family, since it is an old Yorktown family name. Write to them at 1974 Commerce St., Yorktown Hts., NY 10598 or click on the "links" button and go to their website for information. Linda Kiederer
To Janet(Nutzy2), Pam Roberts and Bev: Your search for families didn't indicate what, if any, connection they might have to Yorktown, New York.The only name I recognize as a "Yorktown" name is Hallock, and our pre-Revolutionary records are very slim. Hallock's were generally Quakers from Long Island that moved to Yorktown after the Rev. War, I believe. If any of you have more information on your family members that would tie them to Yorktown, send it to me and I will try to help you find information. Linda Kiederer
I am searching for the HALLOK or the HALLOCK family crest. if you could help at all...
Your site is excellent. For historical information on Yorktown, it can't be beat. I was doing some research and found the John LaFarge article very helpful. I am writing about Yorktown notables. Mrs. Gordon has written a fine article on the very important John LaFarge who made beautiful stained glass windows in the Tiffany era. Stuart Friedman Chairman of the Board/Yorktown Museum
i reallylike this site
Yorktown was the first location to make a map out of cheese in 1956.
I am looking for the parents of my grandfather ERVIN WISE b:1871 d:1961 Also need parents of his wife ANNA HESS b:1881 d:1933 They lived in Milton Northumberland Co. PA. Thanks, Janet
you are the koolist!!!!!
I have been searching the net trying to figure out how I can obtain information on the history of the house that I grew up in .. In Mohegan Lake.. any suggestions?
THIS SITE IS GREAT GUY MAN DON TOUCH AM KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK BE BACK TO SURF MORE
THIS SITE IS GREAT GUY MAN DON TOUCH AM KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK BE BACK TO SURF MORE
Piano Mountain: I recall climbing Piano mountain and there was a granite formation at or near the top which resembled the keys of a piano. I have always assumed that was how it got its name. I also remember ice skating on the "mudhole" in the winter, and trying to fish in the little drainage creek that ran next to it. There were some sort of fish in that thing, but they wouldn't bite.
Piano Mountain: I recall climbing Piano mountain and there was a granite formation at or near the top which resembled the keys of a piano. I have always assumed that was how it got its name. I also remember ice skating on the "mudhole" in the winter, and trying to fish in the little drainage creek that ran next to it. There were some sort of fish in that thing, but they wouldn't bite.
hi this boe jeans and im a big fan of history and all that other junk in america.
I'm searching for information on my grandmother's family - Schueneman & Luedicke's. If you have any information regarding these families, please contact me. Thanks. Pam Roberts
I'm searching for information on my grandmother's family - Schueneman & Luedicke's. If you have any information regarding these families, please contact me. Thanks. Pam Roberts
Am looking for Phebe L. Howard. She was born in Elizabethtown in 1802/3. She married a Hallock in 1822. All that is listed for him is ____________Hallock. Would like to know what his given name is. Thus far, in spite of my searches and queries can find nothing on him. Phebe's parents were Stephen and Mary. She was a Loyalist and in February, 1822 she applied for her land grant and at that time she gave her name as Phebe L. Hallock. Would appreciate any help or suggestions I can receive. Thank you. Bev - MI
I'm looking for any information you might have about Gloria Killilea Lea and her husband, Russell Lea and their children. Thank you so much for whatever information you might be able to share. Sincerely, Karen
The Yorktown Historical Society, the Town Clerk's Office and the Yorktown Museum are looking for anyone with information on a spring water bottling plant that was located on Turkey Mtn. in Yorktown. The name of the company was Orchard Springs Water Company and operated out of NYC. Have you heard of this? Do you have a bottle from this plant in your collection? Let us know! Thanks!
On the corner of 202/35 and Quaker Church Road stands an iron gate with the letter F on it. There are a number of people interested in finding out the whole name of the family that may have placed it there. We heard Fryers and Flewellen. Does anyone have information on this. Bob Giordano
my problem istrying to find my dad my name is phyllis ann taylor born yonkers NY 0ct 16th 1954 last seen tarrytown ny im not sure if hes dead or alive must find him and relatives i must no backround on dads side of family health nationality must find
Hi, My father, gerald gordon griffin III, was born there in 1936 and graduated from Yorktown Hieghts High School as Valedictorian of his high school class in 1954 or 55. his mother, anna cochrane griffin, wife of Gerald gordon griffin jr., died while he was in high school. do you have a copy of her obituary and/or might you know how i can find out more about this family? Any help would be greatly appreciated! sincerely, kathryn k grifin
One day while reading through the posts on your guestbook I read the one from Wendy Held describing the old house where she grew up. She said it was built in 1797, and owned by the Roake family for many years. My ancestors were John Roake and Susanna Hart and I believe they were the original owners of the house. I sent her pictures taken in the 1800's and see confirms that is the same place. My gggrandfather was James Hart Roake, a Civil War Veteran.I believe he was born in that house. The picture that I sent to Wendy said the "Home of William Roake", but it was built long before he was born. I have enjoyed seeing the many references to the Roakes in your articles. Keep up the good work. Carol Roake Clayton
I just found out that my birth father's name was "Pierce" or "Pearce" (not Goldstein). What nationality is the name Pierce?
Dear Diane Korf: In the 1760's Yorktown was called Hanover. It didn't become Yorktown until 1788. Other names the town has been known by are Crompond and Gertudesborough. I am very interested in your referenced information. Could you tell me more about William Johnson, York and the source of your information? Sincerely, Linda Kiederer
In regards to the stone quarries associated with the new crton dam, I can provide much information and a riding/walking tour. There is too much information to put in the guest book. Stone was quarried for the Dam in many local places and as far away as New England (Vermont??). Many types of stone and masonary material were used internally and externally. Today you can see stone that never made it to the dam, and some of the quarry areas and rail road beds that were constructed to move the material. Will be happy to speak with anyone on the subject. 914-962-2071 Bob Giordano
I am researching John W. Carpenter of Shrub Oak (b. 7 Jan 1816, d. 13 Oct 1891). He was probably the same man listed on your website as Yorktown supervisor during the years 1877-1880. Siblings were Walter (b. 1823/24), Lauretta (b. abt 1833) and perhaps Mary A. Carpenter (b. abt 1814) who married Leonard Smith. John married Eliza A. Horton (1824-1897). Their children were Charles W. Carpenter (1856-1925), Walter (b. 1858/59) and Jeannie (b. 1862/63). Son Charles, who married Viola Hart, is also mentioned on your site as proprietor of Sunnyside Farm, builder of the Shrub Oak race track and trustee of the John C. Hart Memorial Library. John W. Carpenter is buried in the Methodist churchyard at Shrub Oak with his wife. I would appreciate any ideas about which local Yorktown resources to tap to learn more about him. I am in NYC. Thank you, Marie.
Growing up in Yorktown I appreciate it's beauty and History more now because I no longer live there. I visit a few times a month because my mother and my sister and her family still live there. I would like to hear from others with their memories of growing up in Yorktown. I was born and raised there in 1957 and left when I was about 20. Having 5 brothers and sisters we all laugh when we get together and remember some of the things we did and got into. I recently visited old Junior Lake which is now just a pond with a pool. I remember the pool was built sometime when I was a kid after all the houses were built behind the lake and probably polluted it till we weren't allowed to swim in it anymore! My sister and I were talking with a teenage lifeguard and she was amazed to hear how we use to swim in that 'tiny pond'. She never saw it when it was much bigger and had a sandy shore and lots of kids swimming to the raft with id tags around our ankles. We spent many a lazy summer day at that lake. It's a shame it is now a shadow of it's former self. We also use to cross across 202 and take a path to Mohansic Pool. Our daily jouneys through the woods was such an adventure. If anyone grew up at that time and would like to share some stories I would love to hear from you. Holly
Regarding my article on the Revolutionary War veteran that appears on the current (8/2002) YHS Homepage online, if anyone has a question regarding family members mentioned, I will be happy to answer as best I can. Please be advised, however, that my “expertise” is the Sirrine/Surine/Serine family and allied families. Likewise, if anyone can help me with the brothers Absolom, James, and John Weeks as well as Mary Pierce who were descendants of Hannah, Fanny or Sally Sirrine named in the will of Mary Barton Sirrine Stagg Cole, I would most appreciate it. Also, I am looking for descendants of Fanny Benedict of the Mary Cole will. Fanny was the daughter of John Sirrine, and she married Heman Benedict. They lived in Connecticut. There was also a Hester Mooney who erected a marker for Elisha Sirrine at Shrub Oak M.E. church, and I do not know who she was for sure, other than Elisha’s granddaughter. Please feel free to contact me by email. Regards, Carolyn Surine
Terrific website. Have many family lines that lived in and around Yorktown including Head, Heady, Hadden, Dingee, Dingey, Rhoades and more. Kris Morison
My last name is LAOO. I have not been able to locate any othe Laoo's in the USA, but I thought that DE LAOO was a close match. To bad you have no info on this name. If you do please email me.
where was the quarry that provided the stone for Croton Dam come from and how was it transported?
In frustration, this is the 3rd ime I've attempted to answer your e-mail of 8/7 - constant reject from the server; should have used "snail mail". Perhaps Melbourne Farm came from England as Grandpa Barnes' roots were England. I don't have additional information. My daughter scanned & e-mailed the balance of the papers we brought on 8/1; sending them to Nancy at her e-mail addtess in Peekskill. Her e-mails are not rejected as are mine. Hought I copied your code name correctly - I did better learning medical terminology than computor terms. Note: a Strang was hung at the former PMA grounds by his family as he was a Tory. In the '40s Grandpa & his neighbors armed themselves as Paul Robeson was due to speak on the merits of communism - and the farmer who rented the field (don't know who) was well disliked by his peers - actualoly he did not know of its intended usage. A bit of history. We arrived in So. Jersey at 11 p.m.; having been lost in the Catskills - embarrasing. We enjoyed the booki "Yorktown at War"; the exhibits as well. I appreciate the correction of my Mother's innnitials - M.L.B. She, I know, with her great love of family history would find your Web ssite, museum and Historical Society as fascinating as we both do - a journey back in the mists of the past - thank you all for caring. L.M.O.R.
Can you tell me if Yorktown would be one and the same as was referred to as York in the 1760s? I am trying to find out the William Johnson, given to one of his tenants in 1764 giving him and family permission to travel to York. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Diane Korf
My daughter and I really enjoyed our all too brief visit to your fascinating museum; feeling that our Yorktown-Peekskill forebearers would be most pleased at the interest shown by the present Yorktowners in the lives; routines of past Yorktown Heights residents. The Staff is so dedicated and cordial. Our trip is one that will always be well remembered. Thank you all so much.
On my 2nd visit to your site; time to clear a mystery - the unknown author in the article originally appearing in "The Peekskill Evening Star" ll/ll/60,"Cannonball Recalls History of Old Melbourne Farm".was my late Mother: Mary Lucille Barnes; she used her initials "M.L.B." fearing the wrath of her siblings; as the farm had been, they. in ignorance, thought it inappropriate she write of their mutual childhood as the farm, by then had been sold. In 1977, close friend Elizabeth Macaulay who had the original manuscript requested my permission as heir to reprint the entire article in her series Elizabeth Macaulay's Cookbook: A touch of Affection". I granted her wish requesting my Mother's entire name be used "Mary Lucille Barnes Orth". I was so pleased to see that both articles have been included in your archives; my Mother also for she was an avid historian (as am I) of Yorktown and Peekskill - I was born in what is now the Peekskill Museum - then the home of my Great Aunt, Mary Hannah Strang; of course you must now realize I am a descendent of Captain Henry Strang; for without our past; we have no future.
Being new to the computor world; I returned to my Yorktown Heights "roots" - I am the descendant of Captain Henry Strang; my Grandparents being John Adriance Barnes & Laura Strang Barnes; mentioned in E. Macaulay's article re: Melbourne Farm. My Mother, Mary Lucille Barnes Orth raised me with data of our proud family history - I was overjoyed to see her articles in your archives. Great site.
Being new to the computor world; I returned to my Yorktown Heights "roots" - I am the descendant of Captain Henry Strang; my Grandparents being John Adriance Barnes & Laura Strang Barnes; mentioned in E. Macaulay's article re: Melbourne Farm. My Mother, Mary Lucille Barnes Orth raised me with data of our proud family history - I was overjoyed to see her articles in your archives. Great site.
Upon looking at the yorktownhistory.org sight, I came across an article written by my grandmother Mary Lucille Barnes Orth about Melbourne Farm which today is the administration building. My Mother has passed on to me several stories of the farm and I was very fortunate to visit the farm a few years ago. My mother has the Grandfather's clock that once graced the hall of this historical site. The clock belonged to Captain Henry Strang. Currently, we are having the family tree restored that dates the Strang family 124 years ago. Excellent site. Thank You
Looking for info. on Haverstraw. Was there ever a home for children in that area? Or a home for adults? We are searching for a family member that we were told was took to Haverstraw and this was in the 50s but had lived in this place before this time.It could have been a Catholic home as that was her religion. If you can help me or send me in the right direction I will be grateful. Thank You for your time.Sincerly Yvonne Bush
Hello, Mrs. Killilea, I have so much enjoyed reading Karen and With Love from Karen and have shared my books with others! I often mention many interesting stories about the books and tell the people to get the book, too! You have been an inspiration to me.. I read in the old issue Ladybug for children, l997 that you wrote Newf. I wondered what other books you have written. I thought you wrote 'Wren" some years back. I got all this help to get to SEARCH for the writeup about your books. I wondered if there were more books you have written and if so, were there any for adults? How is your family doing and tell me about Karen, if you have time, Sincerely, Heather Snyder *admirer of many years
My fellow Guymen Please this site is beautiful and I don entam well well.
Looking for any info on a explosion at CROTON LAKE GATEHOUSE in Yorktown of a chlorine tank back in the 1950's sometime. thank you Bob Waterhouse
I'm looking for any information on Kristoferson's Tree Service on Catherine St across from the Field Home. I'd like to know if any deaths had occurred there, or anything pertaining to that building.
A relative of mine has an original deed that is titled " Catherine Warfel's Addition to Yorktown, Indiana". I scanned this deed but unfortunately a small portion, about 1/2 inch or so, is missing from the center. I was wondering if you are interested in having a copy of this deed? It shows Arch St., Vine, and Depot St. as well as Walnut St. This deed was filed for record on May 31 1892 and is recorded in Platt Book No 2 Page by Thos E. Harrington. If you are interested in this copy, let me know where to send it. The original deed is on fabric by the way. Thanks, Lynda Lynch Anderson
Anyone graduate 1960 from YHS ? e mail to try and catch up on what we are all doing. Steve Wolff
If any of you'll have and ghost stories or any info about the ghosts or spirits about yorktown,VA please write me.
Hello: I am trying to collect historical material of local interest in Westchester County, e.g. a birth in Shrub Oak, a wedding in Bedford, etc., between 1920 and 1950. I wonder how wide-spread was the coverage of the North County News and its predecessor. If such news is unlikely to have appeared therein, can you direct me to another source? I would greatly appreciate any assistance or leads you can provide. Richard K. Aylesworth
i am a dolson, and my great grandfather was daniel. if you are related, please contact me.... as ever, lillian dolson
Hello, I am still looking for any info on the Tompkins line of Percy,Walter, Frank,Charlie, I grew up in Yorktown on Underhill Ave. I worked for Lock Ledge and Amos Keer (Meadows farm) as a boy. I have great memories of the way Yorktown was in the 60's I would love to see photos of that time on your web site. Eugene Tompkins
Mary, I have the information you are looking for and will send it to you. Sincerely, Linda Kiederer
Hello- Can anyone tell me if Aaron Clement/Clements is buried in a Yorktown area cemetery. He was my Revolutionary War ancestor and I have been trying to locate his grave for some time. His wife's name was Sarah and she may be buried with him. Any help you can provide me will be most appreciated. Sincerely, Gerri Yerkes Vice-Regent, Mary Torr Chapter (NH) DAR
In search of any strange folklore, ghost stories, haunted houses, weird places, happenings, and mysterious events in NY history.
To: mschearey: You're best bet for genealogy is to review federal and state census records. They are now available up to 1930. Hopefully that will identify where your ancestors were born. Or if you have death information, get copies of death records, check birth places and dates and then write to that city for copies. Continue to work backwards. There are African-American sites you can check. Go to Cyndislist.com for source information. Good luck! To: Shirleym17: Go to the Yorktown Assessor's office for house information. If it dates before 1945, the Yorktown Museum has Assessment records on microfilm from 1817 to 1945. Call them at (914)962-2970. To: Christine Rushak: Do you know where William Buchanan died? If it was Yorktown, send them a letter and a check for $11.00, made out to the Town Clerk, for a genealogical search and copy of the death record. That should give parent's names, place and date of birth, etc. If he didn't die in Yorktown and you don't know where he died, you can write to the NYS Archives for the information. The Yorktown Town Clerk has the forms for this type of search. To: Robert Hoffman: The Maple Hill Inn is no longer there, although Junior Lake (as it is now called) is still there. There is a Town pool and park located there, along with many houses built in the 1950's (I think). They were called the Halyan Development I believe.The house where the Inn was located may still be there as a private residence. I will have to check that out. We would love to hear of any memories you have of the area. Could you write them down and send them to us at our PO Box address? Thank you for sharing this information. Thanks to all who send us their thoughts, inquiries and recollections. Sincerely, Linda Kiederer
My name is Wendy Held but I grew up as the daughter of Herman "Pat" Herst, Jr. in what is now the Cecere house. Our house was built in 1797 by the Roake family and stayed in the family until the Olsens bought it in the early 1920's. The Olsens sold it to my father in 1945. It is my understanding my father paid $10,000 for the house and then put another $10,000 into it immediately. He sold the house in 1973 to the Fuhrmans who in turn sold it to the Ceceres. That is only 5 owners in more than 200 years. I went to the old Shrub Oak School until the 8th grade and then moved to the old Lakeland High School in Mohegan before it moved into its current building. In fact, my class (1958) was the first class to complete all 4 years in the "new" school. My brother, Ken Herst, has been telling me of this site for more than a year but I finally got here. I can't tell the Historical Society how much I am impressed with this site. I will be reading it for many nights to come since there is too much information to obtain in just one or two sittings. Hopefully, once I see everything that is here I will be able to contribute as well.
Hello, I am looking for any info on my great grandfather I Think his name was Percy Tompkins Father of Walter ,Frank , Charlie Tompkins. Thanks Eugene Tompkins
I am interested in an event that took place nearly 50 years ago in Yorktown Heights, perhaps someone can shed some light on, as I live out of state in Pa.and really am not familiar with this place. My mother recently passed away and I made a promise to her that I would try to find the grave of her brother who was shot in a bar in June of 1953.He was attempting to rob the place and this was the family secret and shame, my mother loved her brother, no matter what he did, he still was her brother, he had some mental problems and had escaped from a mental hospital in May of 1953.Her brother was buried in Ossining , New York, she never knew where and always wanted to find it, but never knew how and her family would not talk about him, so for almost 50 years she silently grieved for him. All of her family is gone and I would love to find his grave as a promise to her. I hope someone can help me. I am sure the incident made the papers there. The bar was owned by Duane Nelson and the bartender that shot him was Fred Weeks, does anyone know these people or the tavern where this may have occurred? Perhaps someone would know the funeral director who may have handled this burial. My uncle name was Edward James Carew, I never knew him, he was 26 years old at the time, he wanted to become a priest and then something went terribly wrong with him, after an autopsy, they said he had a tumor on his brain, which probably caused him to go crazy. I hope that someone will recognize this and be able to help me. My mom wanted to make sure that his grave was marked, because he was in a strange place away from his family and unrecognized by his loved ones through shame. I would deeply appreciate any and all help. Thanks so very much. Lynn
Dear byandbe@msn.com You might try the following web site and submit a query for your Hallock information: http://genforum.genealogy.com/hallock I checked the Hallock Genealogy and he is not listed in it so see if the web site works. Good luck, Ralph Rogers
I would like to know about Nicholas Martiau's French Huguenot and Walloon past. Where he or his parents originally came from, who his parents were, what they did, how many brothers and sisters did he have, where he obtained his education... Professor pof English Ecole Normale Supérieure de Cachan, Paris region.
I am an African American looking for her families roots. Our last name or sir name is Reynolds, our father was Arthur, Jr. his parents were Arthur,Sr. and Lilliemae Singletarry Reynolds they arrived in Hartford, CT sometime in the 1900's. I believe that my grandmother was from Florida. Is there any information out there to help me with my search?
This is a really cool website... and this was a really heplpful site because i needed to do a report on Yorktown and the history of it.. and this really helped a lot.. Thank You
This is a really cool website... and this was a really heplpful site because i needed to do a report on Yorktown and the history of it.. and this really helped a lot.. Thank You
I am seeking information on my Hallock lineage. In particular ggg/grandfather, William A. Hallock. He was born in Peekskill, Ny on October 21, 1770. Nothing is known about his parents as he was orphaned at the tender age of 12. I am certain there should have been some type of guardianship issued for him. I cannot believe he was left to fend for himself at this young. In later years he was known as Rev. William Hallock. He was licensed to exhort in 1789, licensed to preach in 1792, ordained a Deacon by Bishop Asbury in 1795 and in 1800 he moved to Elizabethtown, ONT. He was a Methodist/Episcopalian minister. He married Catherine DeGroat in 1794. Together they had 4 sons and a daughter, Caleb, James, William and Benjamin ( gg/grandfather) and Catherine. I can find nothing on this man who was supposed to such a prominent and prolific minister for his time. Upon researching him I have run into dozens of William Hallocks and many were ministers. Would appreciate any information or direction as to where to search for this yet another elusive Hallock. Thank you. BEV-MI
Am researching my Hallock lineage. Interested in Rev. William Hallock born in Peekskill, NY on October 21, 1770. He parents names are a mystery as he was orphaned at age 12. He married Catherine DeGroat in 1794. Previous to this he was licensed to preach in 1792, Ordained a Deacon by Bishop Asbury in 1795. He moved to Elizabethtown, ONT. Today known as Brockville. Here he was once again the minister of a Methodist/Episcopalian Church. He was ordained an Elder by Bishop George in 1817. He and Catherine had 4 sons, James, William, Caleb and Benjamin, my gg/grandfather. And a daughter, Catherine. He passed away on October 21, 1836. I would appreciate any guidance you can give me as how to find anything out about his tender years, siblings, parent's names, etc. Thank you sincerely, BEV-MI
Would you please advise me as to how I would find out information about a house that is located on Lexington Avenue in the Town of Yorktown. I believe it was a boarding house years ago. Thank you.
My son is working on a paper about Beech Trees in the northeast. Low and Behold, he came across a picture of Beech trees that lined the path on Broad Street. I looked closely and I knew exactly where this photo was taken. I grew up in Yorktown. It was wonderful to show my children, pictures of my high school and junior high school, the house I grew up in, and my church. Thank You very much for making this all possible. Martha
I am very simple by nature, I apreciates this very site wish to be a full member. on the other hand, i am looking for a bautifull girl that can friend me forever.
urgent assistance
I was born and raised in Yorktown Hts, my family still lives there and I go there to visit when I can. I would love to read about the history of Yorktown, but have found no sites about it. Except this one of course. I don't want any specific info, just the general history of Yorktown. My family has been there for almost 50 years now. We live near 'the Kibbies'. Anyone who knows Yorktown knows the Kibbies. Mrs. Kibbie gave the best Halloween candy ever! Any interesting sites please let me know.
Peggy
Hi
I was in your lovely town a few days ago, and found the people there very nice. I have been trying to find my family for many many years now. When we happend on to some papers that said that they might be from Yorktown Heights. We found out that they might have been burried at The Old Baptist Church. So we stoped by and to our great supprise we found the stones in the cemerty. Which leaves more questions. Which I'm sure will be answered as soon as we can get back there. This site has been most helpfull in giving me places to start. Thank You Ann
I would like to find burial records William Buchanan who I believe is buried at East Yard Cemetery on Granite Springs Rd (1901). Do you have any idea where I would find this information? I am hping to find his location of birth and parents' names.
I enjoyed reading about Yorktown and found many familiar names and referencs. I am very familiar with the Mohegan Fire House. I am of the Travis family who donated the property. Thanks for your help!
Christine Buchanan Rushak
This is a most interesting site; I found some long-sought data on "Pines Bridge."
I would like to know if there are any records of WHEELER Family members in Yorktown-Shrub Oak-Cortlandt? I am a descendant of SAMUEL WHEELER (1755-1842) who once lived at Cortlandt and at least one of whose Sons, ANDREW LESTER WHEELER, was born at 'North Yorktown, New York' in 1794. Also, what collections of burial records are available for this area--if any?
Thank you for your providing this site!
Respectfully,
Andrew L. Wheeler
FYI to all those who have emailed about when the 2nd Edition of The Croton Dams and Aqueduct would be out. WELL . . . it is finally back from the printer and should be available in stores soon. Chris Tompkins
A site you can actually get around in - YES!!!
I am Molly McAleer. I am 10 years old. I just got some information about the Underground Railroad. I am studying it a little bit in school. I think having a web site for Yorktown is a good idea! This could help a lot of people that live in Yorktown or out of Yorktown.
I am Molly McAleer. I am 10 years old. I just got some information about the Underground Railroad. I am studying it a little bit in school. I thionk having a web site for Yorktown is a good idea! This could help a lot of people.
I would like to purchase the "YORKTOWN AT WAR" Book. Do I purchase this through the Historical Society or do I purchase this at a book store. Also we were looking for maps or information regarding the revolutionary war and the exact route of Rochambeau's which we believe also goes through North Salem where we are fighting a cell tower issue and we are trying to perserve our land due to the fact that it is history. Please help if you can.
I was wondering if you could help me. I am taking a geology course at school and need to do a project on the geology of any region I would like. I was wondering if you have any information about the geology of Yorktown. Thank you for your help. Adrianna Rudyk
I lived in Yorktown Heights 70 years ago, when my parents owned and operated The Maple Hill Inn, which was located on the crest of Maple Hill.Nearby was a small lake called "Lake Junior"
Are either of these places still there, and is the Maple Hill Inn still operating. It had been built in the Revolutionary War, I was told, at the time, and constructed using hand forged nails.
I had a wonderful childhood there and remember it fondly.
Robert P.Hoffman
February 23, 2002
I am wondering if you have any information about Russell and Gloria Lea and their children. They were written about extensively in Marie Killilea's "Karen" books in the fifties and sixties. Are any of the family still living? Do they still live in Yorktown in the "Little Red House?" I am a great fan of the Killilea books and have often wondered what happened to the family. Is there any information on this site?
Thank you very much.
Sincerely,
Janet Stacy 769 Keller Rd. Telford, Pa. 18969 Phone 215-721-1897 E-mail: js990@hotmail.com
Dear Sirs: Congratulations on the Revolutionary War findings at rt 202 in the vicinity of Freyer's Nursery!I grew up in Yorktown off Old Yorktown Rd near where your historical society is located.I am now living at Harrison, NY at which I am a member of The Harrison Historical Society.Back in the 1950's I recall the old farms and remember Mr Hill in Jefferson Valley who let us use his barn and pasture to raise a 4-H Club calf.Venturing through the woodlands and fields I may have stumbled on several historic sites.I recollect an old fortification type structure behind what is now Copper Beech School on Old Yorktown Rd.Perhaps a Revolutionary War entrenchment? I'll give you any recollections that I have of the Yorktown / Somers area 50's to 70's.I was a"Yorker" back in old school days! Regards. Charles C. Bothur
Dear Wayne Pyne: Any cemetery or burying ground near the Croton Reservoir would have been flooded during the daming of the Croton River. At least one, possibly two cemeteries were moved to other sites. The Yorktown Museum has listings of burials in local cemeteries. The original Pine's Bridge is believed to have been further upstream from where the old and new bridge are located. It was built of logs and was burned during the Revolutionary War. When you are visiting the Museum, check the assessment records for other Pines in the area (they go back to 1817). You should also check the 1790 Federal Census to see if any other Pines were in the area. Good luck in your search, Sincerely, Linda Kiederer
Dear James Brunjes: The Kear name is a prominent one in Yorktown and there is still a street which bears that name. The Yorktown Museum (914 962-2970) has on microfilm the early assessment records for the town. There is a listing of all property owners whose land was confiscated (they were reimbursed) for the flooding of the Croton Reservoir. It is in the records for sometime around 1900 -1905 and is listed in the alphabetical section under "N" for New York City. I know I've seen it, but can't quite remember which year. You will also find Kears in the assessment records under "K". Check the old maps and genealogical records at the Museum, too. You'll find lots on Kear! For birth, death and marriage records, forms can be received from the Town Clerk's Office (914 962-5722 x 209) and these records can be researched for a fee for direct decendents. Good luck with your search. Linda Kiederer V.P. Yorktown Historical Society
I wrote and mailed you a letter yesterday. I have since prepared a letter which follows that I am forwarding to appropriate parties. Now that I have once again in my email search, I thought why not send this to you anyway? After all, it will reach you sooner. Thanks again. Sincerely, Wayne ---------------- Wayne Pyne Box 492 Norquay, Saskatchewan S0A 2V0 E-mail: pyne@sk.sympatico.ca
Telephone 306-594-2323 Fax 306-594-2323
12 February 2002
Dear Sir/ Madam:
I am in the early stages of writing a family history book. Thus far, I have traced my ancestry back to Stephen Pine, the original owner of Pines Ferry/Bridge. Documentation of the latter may be found in "Loyalists of the American Revolution", Lorenzo Sabine, Vol II, Baltimore Genealogy Publishing Co. Inc. 1979 on p193 "Pine, Stephen. Of Pine's Ferry, New York. He was in the service, and connected with the transportation or wagon department, until after the battle of Brandywine. In 1783 he went to New Brunswick, and died on the river St. John, in that Province, about the year 1786, aged sixty-six. Three sons, Henry, Alpheus* and Stephen, survived him. Pine's Ferry was a noted crossing-place on the Croton River, and belonged to the family. At the period of the Revolution, a bridge had been erected across the stream, which, in turn, was known as Pine's Bridge. " * The father of my second great grandfather, who changed the I to Y in his name after relocating in Ontario in 1850, for reasons as yet unknown.
Upon contacting the Yorktown Museum I was indeed surprised to hear they were unaware of the origin of the bridge’s name, apparently they had previously assumed it had been named after the pine tree. Knowing the original and the subsequent bridges are in their area; my wife and I are planning a visit during the second week of this coming July. Because of the Croton Reservoir, I’m uncertain as to whether the second or third replacements (as shown in an 1905 photo the museum provided me with) are still standing, however, a third party has advised that a replacement bridge still stands. Perhaps this is a third bridge? I’ll undoubtedly soon find out. In any event I’m hoping that I may also uncover a Pine tombstone nearby, or in either Ulster or Dutchess Counties where Stephen also apparently had once owned property.
I am also hoping to find some Revolutionary or Loyalist material I may include in my publication. Present day surroundings, museum scenes of typical homes, dress, lifestyles or the like. Anything so that the few pre 1783 pages won’t be entirely blank. It would be very much appreciated if you were able to lend me a hand in one way or another. Be it informing me of related events we may take in, the location of existent cemeteries at that time, whatever. I should perhaps mention we would also be visiting relatives during our stay, but hardly need to be paying around $50. for a rental car to sit in their driveway. Consequently, we only need a car when we’re out "family tree hunting", and I’m trying to determine which dates that should be. I will be very grateful for any assistance you may provide us with.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Wayne Pyne
i am researching my wifes family kear(keer)and lang.it seems a william kear had sold land for the creation of THE CROTON DAM.i am trying to find out if he is the same w.kear in tarrytown/croton area and is he related to john kear josephine kear and william kear from ossing/tarrytown and croton area.james brunjes/margaret (lang/kear)brunjes
I am looking for a Sylvanus Robertson White that was born in N H and he had a son named Laforest A White. The mothers name was Lucy A Jellison from Maine. If anyone could help me please....Thankyou
I am looking for a photo or depiction of a MOHANSIC Indian. I was hoping you might have something. I can be reached at 212-794-1601. Thanking you in advance for your assistance. Brian Decker.-
There is a picture in the 50th Anniversary of Lakeland School District of a basket ball team designated as 1940. This is incorrect. There are no boys from 1940 there. Most of these boys were 1941-42 Back row left to right: Ernest Walz, Howard Secor, Loyal Reynolds Front row left to right: Don't recall, Bill Posner, Fayette Lent, Roger Amorosi. Rose Hinkel Whitney
My name is Jon Zeidman and I am scouting locations for a new movie starring Michael & Kirk Douglas, to be filmed in Manhattan and Westchester County this spring. The movie is an "On Golden Pond" style family drama and is being made by the producers of the recent Meg Ryan film "Kate & Leopold".
I am currently searching for a vintage, un-renovated Colonial or Victorian style house to use as one of our locations for filming. In the script, the house plays as the family country house. Ideally the house would be on a large, secluded piece of property. I am writing to see if anyone has such a house or might be able to suggest certain towns or neighborhoods where I may find this type of house. Your local expertise would be of great help to me.
We offer a location fee for the owners of the house that is selected and we are a fully insured production company.
If you think that you may be able to help me, or if you have any questions about our search, please contact me at jhzeidman@aol.com. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Jon Zeidman Assistant Location Manager
It is good to reminiscence of my childhood and the time spent at Lakeland High School and the kids I played with. The Crossroads had about 50 kids about the same age and we had a great time building tree houses(the lumber courtesy of the home builders). We played football, baseball, stickball, curball, combat in the woods(Imitating Vic Morrow).
I lived on Somerston Road next to Sulin Ct from 1962 - 1980. I remember that old red barn that was located where the upper part of Somerston Road is now. It was about 600 yards from Gomer Street just before Somerston Road slopes downhill. My father and I used to pick black berries near that barn and apples between Flanders Drive and Thomas Jefferson Elementary School. To think that the Crossroads was all woods at one time. It was a great place to grow up... Thank GOD we left the Bronx(Summer 1962).
Hi I have been enjoying your page. It seems my family was connected in both sides to Yorktown in the 1700 and 1800. I grew up there and so did my father and mother. I have some pictures of the class of 1933 if you would be interested in copies or e mail them to you. Also newspaper clipping of the class of 1931 and 32 Looking forward to eharing from you Oh I was going to ask is there a map of the area back in the 1800.s Charlene <muldoon@francomm.com>
Shrub Oak 1842 House: You can trace the history of ownership of your house to see who owned it originally. Go to the Yorktown Museum (962-2970) and look at the 1872 map there. Then go to the tax assessor's records on microfilm and trace it back. The original deeds are on file at the Westchester Land Records office in White Plains. As far as being a first aid station, do you know when that was? Maybe finding out who owned the house then would explain some things. Good luck and let the Museum know of any history you find interesting. They will add it to their files, which are open to the public. Linda Kiederer
Hello. I am researching the history of Gomer Street. I understand that there was a farm owned by the London family, which encompassed what are now London Road west of Gomer Street until the power lines, Wharton Drive, Oakwood Ct., Court St. and part of Radcliff Dr. This would have been during the 1940's, and afterwards. They were members of the Yorktown Jewish Center. I would like to talk to any members of the family who lived on this farm; does anyone know of the whereabouts of any of them?
As always, I'd love to correspond with anyone who lived on Gomer Street, or in any of its developments, before 1965.
Hello. I've begun again researching the history of Gomer Street. Does anyone remember a Polish man by the name of Panowski, who had a farm in the 1930's that was between the Smith farm and Cordial Road? Actually, this farm had no frontage on Gomer Street, but encompassed what are now easternmost Ravencrest Rd., part of Curry St., Elk Ct., Page Ct., northern Poplar Street, Sheila Ct., Sycamore La., Forest Ct., and the part of Somerston Road which bends at a 45 degree angle from its east-west course. This property was later owned by the Keyes and Bourkes.
As always, I'd love to correspond with anyone who lived on Gomer Street before 1965.
Would you Please help me to find an old friend. His name is Dave Delogi,my hearing isnt very good so im not sure i spelled his last name correctly.The last i heard from him ,he lived near Yorktown N.Y. He is in his middle 30s . i met him in 1989 ,and we lost contact in 1993. Please ,this is very important to me .ive called information for his number but get no reply. If you do help to find him ,my name is Jeannie . Im and old friend from Florida and would love to hear from him . My e-mail is ..gertie_jr@hotmail.com Thank you ..Jeannie
I Live in Shrub Oak, and am told that our house was built in 1842. I was asking my uncle about our house and he said that it was used as a first aid station?? Also, I'm told that we have Pink Granite for the foundation, because when they were transporting the granite for the "monuments" in NY, there was a turn over of some...I guess...Buggies, and the person who built this house used that granite. could there be any truth to these stories? How would I be able to find out, My son was going to do a report on this house and the history of it, But I am stumped...is there any way that you could help?
no offense but i didn't like your page too much. i was looking for the battle of yorktown,but i ran into this site.
no offense but i didn't like your page too much. i was looking for the battle of yorktown,but i ran into this site.
Do you happen to know if Rose Marie Hinkle Whitney maintains an active email address at rosewhitney12@earthlink.net? Her postcard shows the area where my house was built later on!
Marv in Muncie, Indiana Originally Decatur Avenue (later Road) Mohegan Lake, N.Y.
Do you happen to know if Rose Marie Hinkle Whitney maintains an active email address at rosewhitney12@earthlink.net? Her postcard shows the area where my house was built later on!
Marv in Muncie, Indiana Originally Decatur Avenue (later Road) Mohegan Lake, N.Y.
I very much enjoyed looking at your website. I spent many happy summers in Mohegan Lake from 1943 until the mid 60's.
Does anyone know how I could find Harvey Solomon, who lived on a farm on Gomer Street, in Yorktown Heights, during this same period? He went to Lakeland High School and would have graduated around 1960?
Thanks again to all who put this great information together! I especially liked the photos.
Paul Hellmann of St. Louis,
Thank you for you inquiry regarding the history of Mohegan Lake and the John C. Hart Memorial Library. There is a great history of Mohegan Lake done by David Wright which ran as a three-part series. You can find it under the Archives button in the "HomePage Archives" section of our web site. Mohegan Lake is a hamlet of the Town of Yorktown, and the official name of York Town started in 1788.
You will also find a history of the John C. Hart Memorial Library under the Archives button in the North County News online archives section. An article, "Happy 60th! Hart Library Celebrates Its Birthday this Saturday" by Pat Sillery, is under the "Landmark" section. The library was started in 1919. However its facility was originally a house which had been built many years before.
The Hyatt family owned it originally until the date of the deed on May 7, 1853 between John & Rachel (Hart) Hyatt sold it to Mary Ann Hart for $5,000. Mary Ann Hart was the wife of John C. Hart and Rachel (Hart) Hyatt was his sister.
Regards, Ralph
To whom it may concern:
I am a seventh grader at Mildred E. Strang Middle School. In my social studies class we are doing a project called Noble Nationals. For this project we must research a person from the past and tell why they were important. I got Colonel Christopher Greene. I was wondering if you had any information on him. If you do I would greatly appriciate it if you could e-mail me something about him. Thank you so much for your time and effort.
Sincerely,
Rayna May
agesex
I have a couple of questions pertaining to the history of Mohegan Lake: -What year was that town settled and who was its first settler? -What year was Mohegan Lake incorporated? Is it a village, town, or both? -What year was the John C. Hart Library founded and its facility built? That is all I need. May have a few questions about Yorktown itself a few days from now. Thank you very much. --Paul T. Hellmann, St. Louis
Many people have written to me asking about the reprint of The Croton Dams and Aqueduct. I have been told by my publisher that the book has gone to reprint -- FINALLY! -- and will be available by early spring. Thanks for your patience!
Chris Tompkins
Hello,As a Yorktowner no longer liveing in Yorktown i visit your page often.Please keep adding photos it makes me feel like im home again.
Eugene Tompkins
Dear Sir/Madam, My UEL ancestor, Stephen Pine owned and operated Pines Ferry/Bridge on the Croton River before leaving for Canada in 1783. I am preparing a family history book and would very much like to include an inset displaying the bridge’s location. I understand the bridge has been rebuilt several times but is still located in relatively the same area. Ideally a map depicting the original bridge is desired; however, a present day one would also suffice. Thank you, Wayne Pyne, Box 492, Norquay, SK S0A 2V0 Tel/fax 306-594-2323
I am looking for any information concerning any religious or Spiritual bookstores, in Peekskill, NY, dating from 1940 to 2001. I need know the date and location. Please help me, I don't know where else to turn. Thank you for your assistance.
What a wonderful, wonderful website! Full of great info of interest, and 'user friendly' for sure! A treasure. Those involved should be quite proud!
Karen Magner Lantz Tampa, FL
Geri, The Town Clerk's office has some early school records from 1865 or thereabouts. Most are on microfilm and can be viewed in the Clerk's office during office hours. More have just been discovered and will be added to the film. Also, we hope to have copies made of the film sent to the museum for public research. Call the Town Clerk's office for a good time to visit and see the film. Sincerely, Linda
Linda, Are there any attendance records available from the early 1800s for the Yorktown schools? Geri
This e-mail address takes the place of roger22@gate.net. gate.net went out of business I was born in Yorktown Heights on West Somers Rd, which is now Granite Springs Rd. My Birth Certificate is signed by Dorothy Francis who was Town Clerk in 1936. She is the mother of Actress, Anne Francis who lived on Yorktown at that time. I'm trying to re-establish contact with Ed Kears Cornhusker Reunion web page. My Wife and I attended the reunion in Banner Elk in 2000, and had a great time.
Hi: I was sent this by a fellow classmate recently. I graduated from Lakeland H.S. in 1976 and lived in Yorktown Heights for 20 years. My dad worked for the Yorktown Heights Post Office for many years. I love the information that you offered in this newsletter and found it very interesting. I now live in Dutchess County and am raising a family of my own. It's nice to know the history of the town in which I grew up in....thanks...Karen(Enright)Foy
The Guestbook is open and running again! Apologies for any inconvenience caused by the outage. Peggy D.
Have enjoyed browsing your site, and have several leads to follow tracing my family tree. If you have info. on the following, please let me know-thanks again, Kathy Henry and Sintie Lounsbury married 2/4/1745? Henry died in Yorktown 1/9/1793. Unable to locate info. on Sintie maiden name-perhaps American Indian. Also Sarah Dingee Lounsbury born 1755 Westchester Co.
I am looking for information on relatives who lived in Yorktown in the late 1700s. William Taylor was married to a Miss Van Pelt (first name unknown) in 1734. They had two children, Benjamin, born in 1736 and Absalom, born in 1755. Both were supposedly born in Yorktwon. If you have any information or can tell me where I could obtain this information, I would be very greateful. Thanks for your time.
Don DeFlavis, thank you for providing us with the correct spelling of Nicoletta DeFlavis' name. The listing in the Research Archives of Women Voting in the 1918 election has been updated.
Peggy Derevlany, Webmaster
On behalf of the Historical Society, I would like to thank Rose Whitney for the information she provided on the location of the "Eagle's Nest" in Mohegan Lake. The information has been added to the photo archives.
Please excuse the delay in posting, unfortunately we missed Mrs. Whitney's posting. We have taken steps to assure that will not happen in the future.
Peggy Derevlany, Webmaster
About two months ago I ran across a picture taken from Eagle's Nest, Mohegan Lake. I wrote explaining exactly where this was. I cam back to the site again this month and you are asking for the same information. I wonder why. Rose Whitney
I have truly enjoyed my 'evening in Yorktown' (visiting the Museum site. It has been a long time since we were home, but I feel like I remember it all after this wonderful reading. The story of the Police Department is exceptional. George and Ruth Purdy, I can see the farm like it was yesterday. Again, Thanks.
I was always told the "mountain" behind the Shrub Oak Memorial Park was named Piano Mountain because it was traded by some one for a piano. We did alot of sleigh riding at the foot of that mountain when the furthest you could go was to slide on to the small pond commonly called the "mudhole". Of course the first modern pools were built there, I believe in the early seventies. Does anyone remember the story of Piano Mountain? Perhaps that was only a nickname given the mountain and known only as such by the locals in Shrub Oak.
Stopped in to look. Researching Ebenezer White's family, Seth Whitney's family, Nathaniel Montross's family, among others. Some of my 'dead realtives'.
beautiful
Does anyone have information on a house in Yorktown called "The Maples"? There is a picture dated 1895 with this name on it. The Cronk family lived in it around that time.
please note on your list of women voting in the 1918 election dist #3 you list a "Picoletta DeFlavis" whom I belive to be my grandmother. Her name was Nicoletta DeFlavis. Probably a typing error thought you might be interested. Thanks Don DeFlavis
Hello:
I'm the author of "Water for Gotham: A History (Princeton, 2000), a history of water in NYC through the completion of the Croton Aqueduct in 1842. I'm speaking at the Mohegan Lake Barnes & Noble (3105 East Main St/Rte 6; 914 528 6275) on July 12 (Thursday) at 7:30pm. Princeton tells me that CSPAN-2 intends to cover this event. Whether they do or not, I will be there and hope you can be as well. Thanks.
Gerard Koeppel
PS: You can read a bit about the book, including the first chapter, at:
<http://www.pupress.princeton.edu/titles/6782.html>
<http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0691011397/qid%3D945961746/002-2540336-3604037>
There is a photograph in the "FIRE!" photo section entitled "Fatal House Fire", depicting a tragic fire that occurred in August of 1968. I am researching the incident for an article and I recognize the photograph as having been from the Peekskill Evening Star. I am curious whether there is an archive available of Evening Star editions from that long ago, perhaps on microfilm?
I grew up in Jefferson Valley in the early '50s but know little of the history of the village, and lake Oceola. is it possible to get that info. Richard Moore San Diego, Cal
My Cousin Jamie Scarpelli died 1995. I wanted to put together people who knew him and what they have to say about him. He was a great guy. I want to build a website dedicated to him.
Please email me if u knew him.
I am doing a report on Hanover Farm if you cold tell me some stuff about it I would be grateful p.S. I am a 4th grader in crompond named Jamie Hopkins
I am looking for any history re Indian Hill Rd. Shrub Oak. I have strange occurrences from time to time and am curious about the history hear. I know that this was an Indian site at one time & There is an old broken down Cemetery at the top of the hill which has been vandalized. Other then that I have no other information, as a matter of fact no one seems to know to much about the cemetery either
Like to locate a Doug Hitchcock who I went to school with in Delhi N.Y. 1950-52 his family were residents of Yorktown Heights Sincerely Jack
I am trying to obtain information about John Hilbert, a clockmaker in Yorktown sometime between 1780-1820.
thank you David L. Epstein MD
I am looking to communicate with the family who now owns my grandparents home on Moseman Street, across from the Church/school. It is a 2 story, "Sears" built home originally built and lived in by George I. Daugherty, Sr. and Mayrose Daugherty. I understand the family has truly taken care of the house and property. I remember it as a child and just curious and how the house is doing. Thanks. Donna Jean
very interesting and informative. Thanks Gail
I enjoyed the presentation on The American Revolutionary War Comes to Westchester County" by Brother Harry Dunkak, this past week. Thank you.
-Pam
Hello,
I am trying to locate photo archives (earliet available through current day) from your area. Your site says you have photo. How many and what format are your photo archives? Also, please let me know who your curator is. Thanks
Wendy
you need to include a back button when you go to search, when i search for something, i can't go back with out having to retrace mysteps by clicking on the search button and doing a new search. BACK button is a must, but nice site
I'm helping my daughter with a project for school on the Old Train Station in Yorktown. Can you please help us with any information that you may have on it and where we can learn more about it. Thank you so much. Lillian Stadmeyer
Dear Sirs:
I have a very old photgraph of a women standing next to her fathers grave that I believe was taken in a cemetary in Yorktown, Virgina. The grave is numbered 454. Grave stones in the background appear to be square and short to the ground. Another picture has a sign that says US National Cemetery. I also have phots of the Yorktown Jail and courthouse and a peace monument. Could you please email me any information you have on this grave. I would consider donating these photos to the archieves if you wish. Thanks Duane Greuel
I am a direct descendant of Nicholas Martiau. I understand that there is an organization of descedants and that they have reunions at Yorktown. Can you tell me how I might reach them? Thank you, Frances Brewer
In my previous comments regarding Daniel D. Tompkins (gov.and V.P.) I erroneously stated that he had "signed" the bill ending slavery in NY. In fact, one of his final acts as Governor was to send a special message to the legislature -- Jan. 28, 1817 -- requesting that they enact specific legislation that would expunge slavery from the statute book by July 4, 1827 to be consistent with the humanity and justice of a free and prosperous people. (Ray Irwin, Daniel D. Tompkins, p. 211)
Soon thereafter, he resigned to become Vice President on March 4, 1817 -- thus he could NOT have signed the bill.
My apologies for offering misleading commentary.
THIS PAGE IS GREAT
There is a photo taken from Eagle's Nest. The exact location is at the intersection of S. Lexington and Decatur Avenue looking East. The dirt road right in front is Lexington and the curve to the right would be Decatur or the beginning of it. We built our house in 1923 on the left of Decatur almost at an angle this side of that short white post. I don't quite remember the rise to the left, but the two mountains in the background are in every picture taken from this side of the lake. Rose Marie Hinkel Whitney Rose Marie Hinkel Whitney
Hello! My name is Joseph Nazar, and I did extensive research on the history of Gomer Street in the Town of Yorktown. I would like to share my information with all those who might be interested in the history of that road, and the story of the developemnts built on it. Also, I would be interested in talking to anyone who lived in the Gomer Street area before 1965.
What an amazing piece on slavery in Yorktown and Westchester. This often over-looked aspect of our unique heritage goes a very long way to fill in the many gaps in Yorktown's history. You should also know that the Governor Daniel D. Tompkins, whose many cousins were residents of Yorktown, was, I believe, the governor who signed the final act abolishing slavery in New York. For those with a strong interest in the lives of enslaved Africans, African-American slaves, and "free blacks," you should request an African-American tour at Phillipsburg Manor in Tarrytown and/or Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton. Again, thank you for a job well done! Christopher R. Tompkins
To Robert J. Tompkins: Daniel D. Tompkins, gov. and v.p. was from Fox Meadow, now Scarsdale, NY. Many of of his "cousins" arrived in Yorktown in the 1750's to 1780'2. You should also know that there were multiple Daniel D. Tompkins in Westchester at the time and that many family trees claim him, but often are incorrect. The GenForum Website has a great deal of information and I have a 200 page family tree of the descendants of the Tompkins from the RALPH/JOHN line of Concord, Mass. You might also contact the Scarsdale Historical Society -- they have extensive research and a recent booklet published on the Tompkins of Eastchester (mostly from what is now the Bronx -- specifically CoOp City).
Good Luck
Christopher R. Tompkins (formerly of Yorktown)
In my family tree I have Daniel D. Tompkins II living in Westchester County, NY. in the early 1700's. But I don't see anything about him in your sight, since he was NY gov. and Vice President of The United States, I thought I might see something here. I've enjoyed my journey on your sight, thank you, Robrt J. Tompkins Sr.
We are looking to connect with anyone who has information or a relationship to Jacob Travis & Sarah Hyatt Travis. They had sons Hyatt Travis and Oscar Travis and lived in the Yorktown area from abt 1854-1862 after which they moved to Huron County Ohio. We would appreciate it if someone out there knows who the parents of Jacob Travis or Sarah Hyatt are and if they had any other children
The video about Yorktown History can be purchased at the Museum Gift Shop. For more information, just click the museum button at the bottom of the menu to go to the Museum web site and click on Gift Shop.
I understand that there is a good historic video about Yorktown. I would like information on how to purchase this video.
I have a question that you may be able to answer. I lived in Mohegan Lake from 1923-1945. As I recall (as does a friend of mine) the home of Dr. Stanton Curry was on the Northwest corner of Lexington and Strawberry Rd. Some folks have intimated that on that space was an Inn which burned down in the 1990's. Something I have no remembrance of. Can you and would you help me if you are able?
Dear Rose Whitney, So glad you're enjoying our website! If you have any stories to share about your time in Yorktown, we'd love to hear them. Send them e-mail, snail-mail or on tape...we're compiling personal stories for future generations of Yorktowners. Hope you can help! Sincerely, Linda Kiederer Vice President
Hello all, I am researching my family tree and hoping to find and contact living relatives. I have come across the name of a deceased ancestor in the Social Security Death Index (online). Before I send away for the death certificate, I was wondering if anyone in your area might have some info regarding my relative, or if there are any records that someone wouldn't mind looking up his death certificate or finding his gravestone for me. I am not familiar with the area at all, and I am not 100% convinced that this record represents my great-uncle.
My deceased great-uncle was Alfred NEUMAN(N), Born 19 Oct 1901, Died Mar 1980, Last known residence: Shrub Oak, NY 10588 Married: Nancy DE LAOO (spelling not sure, nationality unknown) Children: Anita Rose, Patricia Ann I have no dates for marriage or children's births, but supposedly Patricia married a Leopold Sato and they had 2 sons, Anthony Christian and Christopher John. Some branches of the NEUMANN family dropped the last N from the surname - not sure how this branch spelled it. NEUMAN(N)s are Danish and/or Northern German (possibly from Schleswig-Holstein region). Do not know anything about the SATO family - could either be Japanese of Brazilian or ???
ANY info, no matter how vague, on NEUMAN, NEUMANN, DE LAOO, or SATO families in the area is greatly appreciated! I've been working on the family tree for a few years now and this branch is very unknown to me. Please email me directly at dti@nyc.rr.com
Thank You!!!! Diane Ingino
Does anyone here(Yorktown,Va),remember a Dr. John W. Martin? This would be around 1949,or earlier. If there is anyone who remembers him,or if the good doctor is reading this, please contact me at my E-mail address(ASAP), thank you...........
I find this all very interesting. I have a picture of St. Mary' Shurch in Mohegan taken in the late 30's or early 40's. I attended that church about 12 years. I would love to see various old maps of Mohegan Lake, Shrub Oak and Yorktown and others. Maps are so much fun to read and compare from generation to generation. Rose Marie Hinkel Whitney
I am searching for my birthmother:Lenore Margaret Randovich,she lived in Yorktown,Va in the latter 1900's. In 1949,she gave her age as 23. Last known address:PO Box622,Yorktown,Va. I was born in a rooming house in Yorktown,Va; July 29,1949; my birthname was:Raymond Carl Randovich. Dr. John W. Martin of Yorktown,Va,delivered me. My mother worked in a restaurant there,no name given for restaurant. I am searching for my birth mother, and any relatives that I may have. Plaease contact me: mscott@up.net.
Just found out about this site...very interesting. I grew up in the old (built in 1797) large white house in S.O. next to the library (where I had Kinder- garten.)...Originally the Doak house, then the Olson house, and my family bought it in 1946. I worked in the Carousel restaurant from 1954 (when Harry Adler built it and tore down the old cornfield there), until 1961 when I left S.O. My father, Herman Herst Jr. helped put Shrub Oak on the map with his stamp business. Just thought I'd drop in my two cents for any that come this way... Ken Herst, Springfield, Virginia
William Lenihan, There was a pet cemetery on Route 132 which comprised quite a few acres, but I'm not sure if any burials occurred. I remember seeing it on an older map, maybe early 20th century. The museum has the tax assessment records on microfilm. You can look them up, starting about 1911 (?). Its not likely related to P.T.Barnum of Circus fame from Somers. I think his relation to the area dates much earlier. Good Luck!
To dolson: To research your property, the County Land Records Office in White Plains is the place to go. Start by tracing it as far back as the Town Assessor has records, i.e. buyers and sellers. The Town Museum has a copy of the Assessment Records back to 1817 on microfilm. View them after you see the Assessor. Call the Museum at 962-2970 for their hours.
Nick, Originally there was Copper Beech Farm, named after the numerous copper beech trees on the property. Then it became the Copper Beech Camp, a private summer camp. The school bought the property and it became Copper Beech School. Not sure if the Copper Beech trees are still there, but there's nothing else that ties the name to the property. Copper Beech trees are quite beautiful and it seems a nice name for a school, but hey, what do I know?
Dear Pam,
Major Andre had the plans to West Point when he was captured which had been given to him by Benedict Arnold. Without Major Andre's capture, the American Revolution may have turned out very differently according to some historians
Here is one:
Also Mr. E. Irving Haines, historian and author of the book "The Exquisite Siren" describing part of the history of the Revolution, the love affair between Major Andre and Peggy Shippen, later the wife of General Benedict Arnold and which in its consequence might have caused the surrender of West Point to the British by General Arnold and might have changed entirely the outcome of the American Revolution, had it not been for the capture of Major Andre within a few hours after he had breakfast at the Underhill-Andre House.
Source: "Plaque To Be Unveiled At The Underhill-Andre House," The Yorktown Herald, Vol. XVIII No. 4, June 19, 1941
Was Major Andre the man who had Benedict Arnold's paper indicating he was a traitor?
-Pam
Was Major Andre the man who had Benedict Arnold's paper indicating he was a traitor?
-Pam
2/1/01 The Lakeland School District is attempting to change the name of Lakeland Copper Beech Middle School name and drop the Copper Beech. I told them that I would ask you to check the site for any significance of the name?
Advise ASAP Nick Bianco
I own a house on Baptist Church Rd. I've been told it was built in 1741, where would I go to do research on the history of the house?
I am looking for information regarding a canine (pet) cemetery located in Yorktown (near route 132, but I believe west.
the subdivision development Greenwood Hills (1956?) was adjacent to this property.
Any history on the cemetery? tied to Somers Circus was the rumor?
thanks
As Yorktown snowbirds we are checking things out from Hollywood Florida. The Historical Society here does not have any history. Things did not start to to happen till 1930 when the first rail road to south florida was completed. The Yorktown history is the best. But the Hollywood Historical Socity has a great garden party in January, to renew memberships. Warm regards, Howie & Eleanor
Chris Tompkins: According to <i>The Putnam Division</i> by Daniel Gallo and Frederick Kramer, a branch line was built from Yorktown Heights to Mohansic Lake to serve the proposed Mohansic State Hospital. Although a rail line was built across Crom Pond to reach the area, it's my understanding that the insane asylum was never built. Plans to build the the hospital were cancelled on May 1, 1917 after New York City raised concerns about pollution to the Croton Reservoir.
My hat off to Linda Kiederer for yhe fine article she wrote for the home page. Buck Carpenter
The Yorktown School building of 1906 was located on the present site of St. Patrick's. The stone structure.
Dear Sean,
Major Andre spent the night in Yorktown because his original plan of escaping to the "Vulture," which was a British ship moored off of Croton Point was fired at from the shore. His guide Joshua Hett Smith stayed with him over night at Andreas Miller¹s house, which was just over the Cortlandt-Yorktown border on Old Crompond Road in Yorktown, then Crompond. The Andreas Miller house is no longer standing. Joshua Hett Smith and Major Andre also had breakfast in Yorktown at the house of Isaac and Sarah Underhill, who were Quakers. This house is still standing on Hanover Street which has a Westchester County marker next to it.
You can also read the second article under the People heading of the North County News online section under the Society¹s Archives navigation button.
Hope this helps answer your queston. Here are some other bits of information on this subject below.
Regards,
Ralph Rogers
"The ancient homestead of the family, and the place where his grandfather, Isaac Underhill, resided during the Revolution, is still standing on the west side of the road from Crompond to Pines' Bridge, and one mile south of Yorktown Station. It has an historic interest as the place where Major John Andre and Joshua Hett Smith stopped from breakfast on the morning of the 23rd of September, 1780. It was here that they separated, Smith to return to his home in Haverstraw, by way of King's Ferry, and Andre to continue his journey to Pine's Bridge and thence to the old Albany Post Road, where he was captured. When they met again, it was under very different circumstances."
(Underhill family info, unknown author)
"Much has been written about the enigmatic early morning visit to Isaac and Sarah¹s home by British Major Adjutant John André shortly before André¹s capture at Tarrytown. On September 20, 1780, André met with Benedict Arnold to plot the subversion of West Point. The following morning, André, attempting to return to the British lines at New York City, was taking Hanover Road to gain a Croton River crossing at the Pines Bridge. André approached the rear door of the Underhill farmhouse, asking for breakfast. Having no knowledge that André was a British spy, Isaac and Sarah [Underhill] shared their meager porridge breakfast with himŠToday, Isaac and Sarah¹s home, fully restored, is certified as a historical landmark by the New York State Department of Education and the Westchester County Historical Society."
(Westchester County Historical Society, The Westchester Historian, Volume 62, Number 4, Fall 1992, "Underhill: An Old Westchester Name," by N. Robert Underhill)
Mrs. [Margaret McCord] Robinson had collected a large number of historical relics, a partial list of which follows: Chair, dated 1725, was the property of Jesse Underhill of Yorktown, and was in his house on Sept. 23 where Major Andre and Joshua Hett Smith stopped that morning for breakfast. It was the last chair that Andre sat in before his capture that day at Tarrytown. This chair was presented to the Van Cortlandt Chapter, Daughters of the Revolution, in 1914, by Mr. William Halls, Jr., in the name of his friend, the late Stephen D. Horton of Peekskill
(Westchester County Historical Society, The Quarterly Bulletin, White Plains, NY, Vol. 7 No. 4, October, 1931)
My GGGGrandfather, Jacob Underhill had two daughters according to the 1830 New York census. The first daughter was born 1815/1820 and the second was born 1825/30. Is there a way of finding their names? Jacob and his wife Rachel lived in York Town. Thanks! Geri Underhill Oster
Why did Major Andre spend the night in Yorktown? Was the person who owned the home he stayed at a Tory? Has any part of the house off Hanover been preserved? Thank you!
A message to jchambers, 10/31, regarding Matilda Hutchins. Our birth, death and marriage records go back to 1881, but I checked for any Hutchins that have been buried in Yorktown and found the following: Buried at Amawalk - Hutchins Henry Orrin, son of Squire W. and Elizabeth T., died 8/13/1834 age 1 year, 2 mo. Squire W. and Elizabeth T.
Hopes this helps, Sincerely, Linda Kiederer
A message to Ozzie Bagg, 10/27, regarding Dr. Halsey J. Bagg who died at Croton Lake in 1947. I checked the Yorktown records and there was no death recorded for him from 1946 to about 1953. It may have been recorded in Croton or another community, depending on where he actually died. He is also not buried in Yorktown, according to our cemetery lists (although these are not all updated). Sincerely, Linda Kiederer
What a great event at the Yorktown Museum on December 3. The exhibits were wonderful and people clearly enjoyed themselves. Well done! Christopher Tompkins
To Thomas Murray, letter of 10/19: I agree with Bob Giordano that you should send us the names of your ancestors that had land taken by NYC for the Croton Dam. The Yorktown Assessment records show the landowners who were reimbursed by NYC for their land and how much property was lost. We might be able to have someone search for you. Sincerely, Linda Kiederer
Does anyone have information on a potential water bottling facility in the Town of Yorktown located north of Chapman Road, south of the Taconic State Parkway, and just east of the NYC structure located on the Catskill Aqueduct. I observed the remains of three stone structures in this area - one appeared to be the main building (approx. the size of a ranch house) and two apparent well buildings (circular stone buildings with spire shaped roofs and tile lined stone pits approx. 15 to 20 feet in diameter). This structure does not appear on the 1867 Beers Atlas and the remains of glass bottles found near the structures appear to be turn of the century. Any help on this would be appreciated. Thank you. Ron Chiarello (315)662-3145 or chiarerp@obg.com.
Would like information regarding the old estate on Baldwin Rd., past and present. Thankyou, jdf
Wonderful website & very informative. It helped greatly with my research.
Congratulations to all on this website. Much more information listed than I had expected. Exceeded all expectations. Chris Percoulis - Museum Board Member
searching for the whereabouts of Margret Lenore Randovich,my mother. In 1949,she was 23yrs old,and worked in a cafe in Yorktown. Any help in locating her will be most appreciated. mscott42@hotmail.co m
Does anyone know of any haunted houses around Yortown, or surrounding areas? My friends and I are interested in this stuff, and are looking to "investigate" the houses. Please contact me with any information.
Hi! Whats up? Nothing much here. Have a nice day!
Regarding Ozzie's comments, thanks a bunch. My dad remembers your family well. You might even get in touch with him in Yorktown to ask for more information. Better yet, Chester Tompkins, our patriarch of sorts, is well over 90 and living in his home along Croton Lake Rd -- Route 129. His wife Elizabeth usually answers the phone and will gladly discusss things with you. They helped me with the Croton Dam book. BY THE WAY, the CROTON DAM book is CHEAPEST at Borders.com - just over $16. Less profit, I guess, but better for all of you.
Cheers, Christopher Tompkins
To Bryan Gordon -- Most of your story about the the secret tunnel under 132 is TRUE! I have seen the end of the tunnel under the old tavern (house), but not the church side. The tunnel was actually built during the Revolutionary War and was used in conjunction with hiding munitions and for potential secret escapes. The church was burned at one point, if my history is correct, and the construction of Rt. 132 made the tunnel impassable, but it is still visible! My cub scout troop visited it as part of a history project and I recall -- I think -- reading about the tunnel in the jounal of The REv. Silas Constant. The underground railroad idea may or may not be true, but that was not the original purpose of the tunnel.
I am searching for the parents of Matilda Hutchins, born in Yorktown about 1802. She married John B. Robertson in Dutchess Co. NY 9 Nov 1822. John Robertson wrote a reminiscence in which he states Matilda had one brother Sylvanus Tylar Hutchins and several half brothers and sisters. He also states that Matilda was born in Yorktown but does not give a state. Matilda died in Washington Co. 5 Apr 1851. Sylvanus died in Washington Co. 9 Aug 1868.
9 Aug 1868. Any assistance appreciated.
i need a adress of friend american jason marero new york city amawalk ..
Ozzie Bagg now in Las Cruces NM. Looking for any information on Dr. Halsey J. Bagg, my father,who died at Croton Lake in 1947. Have run across Chris Tompkins and his Croton Lake dams, know his father, good people. Best luck with the book. I've ordered on Amazon.com.
Hello,
I have been enjoying your site over the last few days (mostly period photos of Mohegan Lake) and I was wondering if any one had information on a rumor that I first hear in my teens... That there was a tunnel the connected the church on the corner of Rt. 132 and Rt. 202 to the yellow house on the opposite side of 132 that was used as part of the underground railroad.
I believed that this was just a story that the local kids circulated, but many years later I was told by someone that used to babysit for the family that lives there (or once lived there), that there was a door in the basement that was boarded up and that the home owners told her that there was a tunnel.
I've heard that if there was such a tunnel that it would have connected to a church that was lost to fire prior to the building of the present church.
Is there anyone that can shed some light on this. I realize that it's not a very important issue, but it would sure be nice to know the answer to a question I've had for 25 yrs.
Thanks Bryan Gordon
Greetings All! I just wanted to let everyone know that (finally!) THE CROTON DAMS AND AQUEDUCT is being shipped to bookstores in the Westchester County area. The book is a photographic history of the Croton Dam, Huntersville, Yorktown, and Croton. Ninety percent of the photos were passed down within the Tompkins family of Yorktown and the rest are part of a collection created by the author. I am happy to sign the book or speak "gratis" in the future. Christopher Tompkins
I am a resident of Yorktown Heights, and see in prior posts of a research center to be opened this year? Has it been opened as yet, and if so what are the hours it is open? If it has not yet opened, would I be visiting the Town Clerk's office for genealogical research, and is research only available by appointment? One more thing... I am interested in determining where the former Scholerman's Corner was located. I understand it was at the intersection of Amawalk Road, and Yorktown Road, would this be "Old Yorktown Road," the intersection where the Presbyterian Church now stands? My Thanks in advance. P.S. great site, I am not a native Yorktowner, and my anscestral roots are also elsewhere, but this site gives me such a feeling of rich heritage I feel as if I am indeed *home* here in Yorktown!
I am a resident of Yorktown Heights, and see in prior posts of a research center to be opened this year? Has it been opened as yet, and if so what are the hours it is open? If it has not yet opened, would I be visiting the Town Clerk's office for genealogical research, and is research only available by appointment? One more thing... I am interested in determining where the former Scholerman's Corner was located. I understand it was at the intersection of Amawalk Road, and Yorktown Road, would this be "Old Yorktown Road," the intersection where the Presbyterian Church now stands? My Thanks in advance. P.S. great site, I am not a native Yorktowner, and my anscestral roots are also elsewhere, but this site gives me such a feeling of rich heritage I feel as if I am indeed *home* here in Yorktown!
Caroline, this site is about Yorktown, NY. For information about the Battle of Yorktown you should contact the Yorktown, Virginia historical society.
Thomas Murray, you should provide us with the names and addresses of your relatives so that all can see and possibly shed some light. I for instance have numerous maps of Yorktown that include the names of land owners and the amount of property they owned. 1867, 1872, 1893 for example. Bob Giordano
A delightful visit to a beautifully constructed site. Many of my cousins lived in the area in the 18th and 19th centuries. Some owned land flooded by the dam at Croton. Didn't find much about them, but that only highlights how much history is lost so quickly, and the importance of the work you are doing to recover, preserve and present it.
Thomas A. Murray
You can find pictures under our Archives button as well as the many picture links throughout our feature stories. We hope you enjoy browsing some of the historical pictures on our site.
this is no help i want to look for pictures
this is no help i wantes to look for pictures
I wish talk more about the battle of Yorktown and less about the Historical society
I wish talk more about the battle of Yorktown and less about the Historical society
I wish talk more about the battle of Yorktown and less about the Historical society
History of Mekeel family of N.Y.
History of Mekeel family of N.Y.
Test posting.
The Yorktown Heights "New" School, pictured in the Photo Archives, was the school Katherine Wyand attended. It was 4 rooms and built on Hanover Rd. on the sight of the current St. Patrick's Church. Needless to say, it no longer stands!
I am searching for information regarding the children of Jacob and Rachel Ames Underhill. They were married ca 1814. They had 3 sons and 2 daughters. Henry b ________ no further information Harvey b 1821 (gggrandfather, whom I have data on) Simeon b______ died 1828 cart accident in Chappaqua Daughter #1 b 1815/1820 per census possibly m Mott Daughter #2 b 1825/1830. Geri Underhill Oster
Does anyone have any information regarding an estate sale which took place at the Hilltop Hanover Farm (formerly Christal Dairy Farm) sometime in August (or July)of this year?
The Chappaqua, Westchester County, New York Quaker records (including Amawalk) are online for free until 9/2/00 at the following site: http://www.ancestry.com/search/rectype/inddbs/4968.htm
These are wonderful records for anyone who has ancestors that were Quakers in the Yorktown area. Under "search" put "Amawalk" and this will give you all the records of the Amawalk Monthly Meeting for the given period.
Ethelt1003: I found 2 vital records for Losee/Losie: William Losie married Elizabeth Rich in Yorktown 5/6/1847; and Hannah Losee died in Somers, NY 4/8/1901 age 81y, 11m, 22d. Occupation: Housework born in Yonkers to Henry Lane and Betsey Meade and buried in Hillside Cemetery (Peekskill, NY?) Also found a number of later deaths in Vital Records, as follows: Abram D. Losee, age 80;Emma R. Losee age 50, Phebe E. Losee age 70; Louisa Losee age 45, Mary Eliz. Losee age 45, William Losee age 30 and Hannah, Louis H. Losee. Copies of these death records can be obtained from the Town Clerk's Office, 363 Underhill Ave., Yorktown Hts., NY 10598. Send $11 for each search and copy. They are in the 1881-1909 records. Found in cemetery records: Buried in Amawalk Cemetery: Phebe E. Losee 1828-1908 Hope all this helps, Sincerely, Linda Kiederer
Lori Dubois: I found this tidbit on Secord: Benjamin Secord born 9/24/1847 to Townsend and Phebe Secord in yorktown. One of the few early birth records we have in town. Sincerely, Linda Kiederer
Andrew Lester Wheeler: I searched for your correspondence and found your thank you letter of July 29th. I then remembered I did in fact respond to your request. I'm not sure then which of your requests went unanswered. However, I did find an entry in my copy of the New Loyalist Index regarding an Elizabeth Wheeler (b.1745 d. 7-16-1838 probably in Canada) who married a Jeremiah French, a loyalist from Whitehall, NY and had 8 children. Whitehall is north of here, not very far I believe. Hope this helps a little. Sincerely, Linda Kiederer
As a former resident of Yorktown Heights (and serious history fan), I enjoy your site. Do you know where I could find any old (pre-1800) maps of the area? I'm not looking to buy, just look!
The 2000 reunion for the classes of 1940-1960, hosted by class of 1950 in Banner Elk, NC was a huge success The oldest in attendance was 80y/o Joe DeFlavis & the youngest graduates from 1960 class. The host class had 12 of 24 remaining classmates in attendance. The four day event was tear jerking; Values & attitudes had not changed one bit. Al Marks was the CEO for the "gathering"--the BOSS-- & did a fantastic job. Ed Kear was the WEB MASTER & you must pull this CORNHUSKER SITE up to fully appreciate his talents & the magnitude of the pgs on the site The address is;
www.communitysights.com/~keared/Yorktown/list.htm the only Cap being the Y in Yorktown. A donation to the Society will be forthcoming because of the genorisity displayed by these graduates. Plans are underway to repeat this in a few yrs. The 51 & 52 & 53 classes have some dynamic folks who want to compete w/ the class of 60 as host. We certainly hope the traditional will continue the Y2K example. George daugherty
A response to S Pearce:
I am not familiar with the Pearce name in Yorktown (formally Crompond), but in the "New Loyalist Index" there is listed a William Pearce from Salem Co., NJ and a Samuel Pearce who settled in Charlotte Co., New Brunswick, Canada with a 230 acre grant #5 near Maces Bay. Hope that helps a little! Linda Kiederer
Andrew Lester Wheeler: I received your inquiry in the office of the Town Clerk, but have not had time to respond to it. We don't do genealogy searches in our office, but as an officer in the Yorktown Historical Society, I try to respond to those requests on my own time, as available. I'll work on your request asap and let you know what I find. Sorry about the delay, and thanks for visiting our website. Sincerely, Linda Kiederer Town of Yorktown Records Management Clerk
An answer to Lori DuBois: We don't have pre-revolutionary records at the Yorktown Records Center, but we have records on the families she is searching. The best place to check first is in our "Links" section under the Chadeayne family. Later family records can be searched by making an appointment with the Town Clerk's office as noted previously. Linda Kiederer
A message to Ethelt1003@aol.com:
Ethel: Thank you for visiting our website. Those are all family names from Yorktown. If you would like to do research, call the Town Clerk's office at (914)962-5722 ext 209 to set up an appointment. In the meantime, I'll check some cemetery records for those names and let you know what I find.
Linda Kiederer
Since a few people have been looking for information on loyalists here is a web site on Westchester loyalists in Cumberland County Nova Scotia
http://www.rootsweb.com/~nscumber/loyalist.html
Hello, my name is Donna Jean Daugherty. I am the daughter of George Daugherty, Class of 50 YHS; and the neice and namesake of Donald Daugherty. My grandparents were George and Mayrose Daugherty of Moseman Road. I am interested in communicating with anyone who might have known my grandparents and/or my father and/or uncle. Family heritage is important to me and I thought this might provide an opportunity for me to connect with anyone who might have known my family in New York. I look forward to hearing from you. Thanks. Donna Jean
Will be in town Sat 8/19 to work on some family history. Do you have Sat hours? If so, is there any info on the following families:
Mabee/Mabie/Maybee Secord Chedeayne Landrin
Believe all were loyalists in Amer rev. Thanks
Just by chance found this so decided to ask for some help. I am trying to find my great great grandparents and his brother or sisters. What I have is William A. Davenport Youktown and Harriet Losee Married Westchester Co. July 13 1836. Her parents Samuel Losee and Hannah Beyea They were Methodist in DeKalb, Il.I believe Samuel parents wereDaniel Losee Ans Sarah Ann? any help greatly welcome Thank you ET.
Andrew,
I am not sure why your mail inquiry went unanswered, but you can e-mail me in the future as I am the correponding secretary. Typically, the Society does not engage in genealogical research as this is not part of our mission and we unfortunately don't have the resources to do it.
I did check the Shrub Oak cemetery records, but there were no Wheelers listed.
Have you tried the Westchester County Genealogical Society?
Regards,
Ralph Rogers
I am glad to be able to contact the Historical Society; my regular mail inquiry was never answered. I am interested in any information concerning my WHEELER Family in the Yorktown-Shrub Oak area. My great-great-grandfather, ANDREW LESTER WHEELER, claimed 'North Yorktown' as his birthplace. His parents were: Samuel WHEELER and Martha LESTER WHEELER. I have been trying to locate possible burial and home-sites for my Family. Thank you. Andrew Lester WHEELER
Thank you for a wonderful hour. I have always wondered about the Hyatt Farm. I am the Great granddaughter of Marion Hyatt. His father was Ferris Hyatt. It is a family story that Ferris's first wife was killed in a horse and buggy accident. Thereby, he married Pheobe Campbell and began my lineage. As the world is a small place I was attending college (in 1968) I had a roommate and friend named Patti Perkins. we ran into each other 10 years later, then found out we were related thru Pheobe. my father, Thomas Ballantyne has visited your town and found the church book very helpful. Unfortuantely at that time no one new where the Hyatt burial ground was. I have let him know about your site and you will probably hear from him. Again, thank you.
Thank you for a wonderful hour. I have always wondered about the Hyatt Farm. I am the Great granddaughter of Marion Hyatt. His father was Ferris Hyatt. It is a family story that Ferris's first wife was killed in a horse and buggy accident. Thereby, he married Pheobe Campbell and began my lineage. As the world is a small place I was attending college (in 1968) I had a roommate and friend named Patti Perkins. we ran into each other 10 years later, then found out we were related thru Pheobe. my father, Thomas Ballantyne has visited your town and found the church book very helpful. Unfortuantely at that time no one new where the Hyatt burial ground was. I have let him know about your site and you will probably hear from him. Again, thank you.
Sean Love -- wow! Names from the past always make for interesting memories.
I am unsure if I am referring to the correct abandoned building, but one of the many buildings that made up an early "Sanatorium" that closed soon after it opened in the 1920's. What I know about is is simple: a rail line was established from the Heights station of the "put" and extended past French Hill School into the Mohansic Park (FDR Park) area. The rail lie brought the building supplies, etc. for construction. Shortly after it opened, someone escaped and evidently committed the first murder (at least in modern times) in Yorktown. Soon after the placed was closed and many of the buildings were eventually used for the park. The rail line even brought some holiday makers in later years until it was closed. You can still see parts of the line near Turcos and near The Country House.
Don't know if that helps, but it is a topic I have always wanted to pursue. There seems tobe little information about the "real" purpose for the land that is now Mohansic/FDR Park.
Best to all, Chris Tompkins
I grew up and attended school in Yorktown. It will always be home to me, even though I have been away since 1974. Your website is wonderful and brought back many happy memories. Janette Devoti Freer, Keene, NH.
I would love to know more
I went to school and lived in the surrounding areas of Yorktown. I have been away from New York since 1973 and may decide to take a trip up there. Living in Florida does not offer the climate changes that Florida has (HOT!). I would like to visit the historical society when I do come. thank you for your web site, Maureen Burch Keystone Heights, Florida, 32656
Your website invoked many fond old memories of the Mohegan Lake area - the Keeler family lived on Lexington Avenue from 1960-1983, when our parents retired and moved to Florida. Mohegan will always be "home" to me, although I was disappointed to see the condos built across the street from my former home. Was pleasantly surprised to see Mrs. Jane Fisher listed (in 1980) on the Board - an old family friend. Keep up the great work! Carole Keeler Wyland, Middlehope, NY
I recently came across a record in the Public Papers of George Clinton about a "Wm. Pierce of Crum Pond taken at N. Castle going to the enemy." It is probably an ancestor of mine who came to Nova Scotia about 1783.
I am interested in anything about families in Crompond in the Revolutionary period to establish connections, but above all, has anybody ever heard of any Pearce families of Crompond. My ancestor William Pearce had a brother Henry who came to N.S. with the Westchester Refugees. Finding this reference is a reall breakthrough for me and I would be very grateful for any help.
Hi,
I lived in Yorktown Hts. from 1972-86. We lived at the intersection of Lee Rd. and Hill Blvd. with a great view of Lake Osceola and the surrounding valley. I loved your piece on Mohegan Lake, all five of the Thorp kids were lifeguards at the Mohegan Beach Park District from 1974-1984. Have you done a similar photo history on Lake Osceola? That would be great as I'm sure there is a long history there also. Well, I've enjoyed your site. I have some great photos of the woodlands prior to and during construction of the JV Mall. They look down nicely on the land (taken from upstairs of our house on top of Lee Rd.) and include the L.M.V. Fire Dept. If you wan a copy let me know, I'm sure someday they will look as ancient as other photos here.
Paul Thorp
This site is fantastic. Please keep up the great work and keep posting thoses pictures!
They are great!!
Heather Mackie
Thank-you. Attempting to research my ancestors from Georgia has proved to be a challenge- but your site has "fleshed out" the mental picture of my great grandmother Dorry working at the butcher shop described in The Yorktowner, Vol 2, No 8, Dec 7, 1967. Now if you could tell me how to get a copy of the photo referred to of Station Square-- and , dare I dream-- are there any city directories that might mention my g-grandmother? I have only her last name, her son's name (George, b. in Mt Kisco) and the fact that she spoke German and was probably an immigrant. Your site is wonderful, and I've printed out a membership form. Thanks again. Jackie Lyons
Dear dbknapp@sfsu.edu
Jefferson Valley is one of the business hamlets in the Town of Yorktown. There were Wildey and Sherwood families in the area. Unfortunately, there is not a published book on the area. However you can find a brief history of Jefferson Valley under the following path, Archives button-North County News archives-Places-Jefferson Valley.
If you will provide a list of the 18 people we can check local sources to see if there is additional information.
Regards,
Ralph Rogers
I have a Baltimore Album Quilt that has inscribed on it "Mary E. Wildey Jeffersons Valley". It also has 18 other names and I assume Mary's sister because there is a Julia Z. Wildey also. The quilt has a signed block "Addie L Sherwood the Appril 22 and 1860". My first question is do you have a Jeffersons Valley and is there a published book of the area in around 1860 where I might find some of the other names. In The Hammond Harwood House Atlas of Historical Maps of Maryland, 1608-1908 I found the names T. Wildey, Horn, and Woods. I need help in my search to find the people who signed my quilt.If there is someone who can help me or point me in the right direction I would really be thankful. Joan
Until thier deaths a few years ago, my parents, William and Hilda Walsh, lived in Yorktown on Granite Springs Road. Recently, and rather ironically, I discovered in doing genealogical work, that we may have had ancestors who lived in Yorktown during the 1700s.
I will be in the area the week after July 4th, 2000 and would like to see if I can find some information. Where would I go? Who would I contact? Should I make an appointment or are there times the place or places would be open?
I would be grateful for any help you can give me.
Thanks,
Joanne Walsh
I would like to chime in and also state how pleased I am to see this website still up and active. I am especially tickled to see Chris Tompkins gracing the stage. I am assuming he is the same erudite, Quaker, upper-classman I remember from high school.
Thanks to Peggy Derevlany for responding to my question about the old, abandoned building between Mohansic Ave and the golf course. If any one else knows what that building was for, please let me know (was it a pumping station?).
Also, does anybody know of a "Carr Mansion" (I am not sure if that is how it is spelled). There is a large house off of Mohansic Ave. that I believe went by that name.
Thanks!!
Sean Love
Dear Krissy340@aol.com
Thank you for submitting a query in the Yorktown Historical Society guestbook about Yorktown Schools.
There is a picture of the Old School House for District #4 on our web site under the photo archives contributed by Mary Lee Gellhaus, with the following caption:
The Old School House, District #4, Town of Yorktown formerly on site of
bungalow owned by Mr. Foley opposite Flagg Place on Route 202, Crompond
Road near Presbyterian Church.
1 entrance foyer, 1 main room, 2 small ante rooms [sic], 1 well on
property, 2 rest buildings, large play area.
Children walked to school and then back. One teacher who had to cover
for 6 grades, if needed.
There is another picture next to the District #4 school house which was the "New School." The picture is dated 1906 which was donated by Tom Patterson.
In northern part of the Town, there are a few of the old schools still visible. The old school house in Shrub Oak is now a home which is next door to the Methodist Church. Also in Mohegan Lake just over the line of Yorktown/Cortlandt is an Old School House for district #13 which is now a business--the Rugged Boot which has a caboose in front of it. The school bell still exists in the building. Hope this helps.
Ralph Rogers
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Hi, my name is Caitlin, I'm from Melbourne Australia and I've recently developed an interest in your area. I am looking for any information regarding the family name Reynolds, does this name have any significance to local history. Also anything on the Royal Hotel, or the Royal Regency Hotel? I hope that someone is able to email me on these subjects as I would dearly like to find some info. thanks alot, Caitlin
Where would I find a list of people who lived in Yorktown, VA in the latter 1600's and early 1700's ? Would like to find THOMAS HOUSDEN. He was the guardian of two young girls- FRANCES & MARY COURTENAY. I am descended from the Martiau, Washington families who are connected with Yorktown but the HOUSEND family records have eluded me. Please advise. Thank you. Marilyn Sanderlin
I'm in the 4th grade at Crompond School and have been learning about Yorktown Schools now and in the past. The "now" part I know about but I'm trying to find out about the first formal Yorktown schools. I know Cortlandt has "The Little Red Schoolhouse" on Locust Avenue, was there something like that for us in Yorktown? Was the First Presbyterian Church involved in any way since it was the center of town way in the beginning? Thanks for any help you can give me or direction you can point me in!
DO YOU HAVE ANY INFO ON THE OLD 6TH GRADE SCHOOL.
I was able to locate the farm of my G-Great Grandfather Clark Jacob Tompkins on the 1893 Julius Bien Atlas Map on your web site. The map was part of the article An Illustrated History of Mohegan Lake, Part 2
Clark's farm is located below the label YORKTOWN, and labeled C. J. Tompkins 32.
What I wish to know is what is the name of the road his farm is on and if he had to houses as indicated by the map.
Thanks so much for the info on your web site. It is great finding out this type of info.
Kind regards, Scott Tompkins - Plano, TX (972) 729-5454
Visiting your website rekindled fondness for the place I grew up. (Class of 72 Yorktown High)
Thanks.
A big THANK YOU to Chris Tompkins for his comments and information! I know we are all looking forward to his book on the Croton area. Maybe we can sponsor a book-signing in Yorktown. Again, thanks Chris.
I am looking for more information on Hallocks Mill, behind Brookside School, is there anything in print... Please respond to my e-mail address... Thank you
Dear David Warner,
Your endeavor to move an 1880's house to Yorktown sounds fascinating. Here are a few people you can speak with about this situation.
Bob Giordano, who is the Chairman of the Landmark Preservation Committee and also a Trustee of the Society at (914) 962-2071
David Wright, who is an attorney, was the previous Chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals, and a Trustee of the Society (914) 962-1039
Possibly the building inspector who is William Gregory at (914) 962-5722 ext. 229/233
Hope this information helps.
Regards,
Ralph Rogers
I AM RESEARCHING MY UNDERHILL ANCESTRY AND FOUND YOUR WEBSITE VERY INTERESTING. HISTORICAL SOCIETIES ARE VITAL TO HELP FAMILIES PRESERVE THEIR STRONG SENSE OF FAMILY. I AM CURRENTLY AT A STANDSTILL IN MY RESEARCH. ACCORDING TO THE LDS MY GGGGRANDFATHER WAS JACOB WHO MARRIED RACHEL AMES IN OR ABOUT 1814. THEY WERE MARRIED IN YORKTOWN, WESTCHESTER, NEW YORK. ALSO, THEY WERE REPORTEDLY QUAKERS. IF YOU HAVE ANY INFORMATION ON THEIR PARENTS OR ANY OTHER PERTINENT INFORMATION I WOULD TRULY APPRECIATE HEARING FROM YOU. SINCERELY, GERI UNDERHILL OSTER
Just had the chance to review some of the questions below and wanted to add my two cents.
On the issue of YORKTOWN, Linda Kiederer is correct in many ways. We should remember, however, that Yorktown's political focus during the Revolution was dictated by geography and "ancient" connections. The Croton River was THE line that divided the region -- the north controlled by Continental forces, the area from the river south to New York the "No Man's Land" or Neutral Ground that was the scene of the capture of Major ANdre and a great deal of pillaging by both sides.
The other historical factor was the influence of the Van Cortlandt family of Croton and Peekskill. The people of the Croton Valey looked downstream in patronage to the old manor family. Pierre and his sons Pierre, Jr. and PHillip were regularly voted into office during colonial times, the Revolution, and in the early stages of independence. Those records are clear and the names and votes of the people of the manor -- including YORKTOWN -- are all in the public record and in the family documents located at the library of Historic Hudson Valley in Sleepy Hollow (N. Tarrytown).
As to the choice of names -- In all my years working for Historic Hudson Valley and reading the records of the region, I have yet to come across ANY true historical record of how the new name was created! The story does seem to work and those in political power at the time would certainly have agreed with the name. CHances are it is a classic case of the Victor choosing the name!
The question regarding the "Friends Church" does refer to the church on Hanover St. (or as most of us say, road). The use of "church" is for that location, as opposed to "meeting house" for Stanwood and Amawalk. One correction -- the Friends Church DOES STAND TODAY - it is the Calvary Bible CHurch -- just up the street from town and next door to the old St. Patricks. Until the 1980's, one of Yorktown's elder statesmen was a living member of BOTH the Society of Friends AND Calvary Bible Church. Upon Amos Kear's death (who once owned the Meadows Farm which most called Kears), the Friends had the option to repossess the church building, and there were some tense moments as the two groups negotiated the temination of the age-old agreements.
Regarding cemetaries, NYC records indicate that bodies and stones were moved. We know that stones were definitely moved, as they are currently in the yard at the Community Church of Yorktown and at the Calvary BIble CHurch. The "old-timers" at Calvary claimed that ALL the stones in their yard were from the reservoir, that NO bodies had been moved and buried. THere were a few stones with names such as Tompkins and Wilson in that yard -- they may still be in the old carriage shed out back. That old carriage shed was the ONLY remaining quaker-style shed left in Yorktown. A partial shed remains in Amawalk. A good example of a stone that was moved from the Croton stands at the Community CHurch off Baptist Church Rd. John Tompkins -- who died in 1825 -- is buried there. He was originally buried at the OLD Baptist Meeting house which would have been below the current waters in the old hamlet of Huntersville.
Well, I have gone on too long, but thought these questions and ideas were important enough for the society to mention. I just think this site is WONDERFUL and will help protect Yorktown's history which is MUCH older than just the "Ol' Put."
Regards, Christopher Tompkins (no H)
My family and I are in the process of relocating to Yorktown Heights. We are in the process of buying land. One of our proposals involves the relocation of a historic "1880's" house from Connecticut. I would be interested in talking to anyone who may have experience with the local buildinig code and its relationship to historic structures.
I look forward to speaking with you.
David Warner 212/460-4286
In reference to the Croton Dam. Chris Thompkins I have a large amount of information. I would love to get some of your Huntersville research. Call me at 914-962-2071 Bob Giordano
In reference to the Croton Dam. Chris Thompkins I have a large amount of information. I would love to get some of your Huntersville research. Call me at 914-962-2071 Bob Giordano
I am pleased to see that the website is active.
As a member of the Tompkins family of Yorktown, I am always intrigued with new historical facts. As some may know, I am writing a photographic history of the Croton Dams and Aqueduct which is due out some time in the fall. The book will cover a period from the colonial era through the 1950's and an estensive array of original photographs of the dam, the Croton Valley, Huntersville, the people, and the landscape. Perhaps we could arrange a "talk" through the historical society after the book hits the stands! Preserving a piece of our past is essential and I hope that this website furthers that end.
Regards to all back home! Christopher R. Tompkins Currently of DeSoto, Texas (Dallas)
My family lived in yorktown between 1950 to 1956.I will be visiting you in June. Can you give me some names etc of bed and breakfasts in the area. The house we lived in is on Overhill street (I think it was called Overhill Road then)
thanks, and a great sight.
Walt Scheer Rifle Colorado
JUST WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW HOW MUCH I'VE ENJOYED THIS SITE. I GREW UP IN YORKTOWN AND STILL HAVE FAMILY IN THE AREA.IT WAS NICE TO LOOK AT THE OLD PICTURES. IT TOOK ME BACK A FEW YEARS. SOME WERE BEFORE MY TIME, BUT IT WAS STILL NICE TO SEE. THANKS FOR THE TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE. I'VE ADDED IT TO MY FAVORITES SO I CAN VISIT AGAIN. RUTH ANNE {SEE} TATAVITTO
A letter to Buck Carpenter and Linda MeKeel:
The Research Center, which will be housed at the Yorktown Museum, is still under construction, but we are making progress. We (the Records Management Clerk and various Museum-associated individuals) are hoping it will be open by this summer. Buck has done research at the Town's Records Center behind the Yorktown Police Station and knows just how much information we have! Preparing the facility and moving and organizing the records has been a challenge, but we are nearing the end of the process. What would be helpful is to write the Town Board requesting that the Museum and Research Center be open by summer for use by the public. Write to: Linda Cooper, Supervisor Councilmen: Gregory Bernard Nicholas Bianco Floyd Braun James Martarano 363 Underhill Ave. Yorktown Hts., NY 10598
In the meantime, you can make an appointment to see the records by contacting me at the Town Clerk's Office 962-5722 ext. 209 for a Tues., Wed., or Thurs.
Sincerely, Linda Kiederer
Dear Ms. Mekeel and Mr. Carpenter,
The Yorktown Museum and the Yorktown Historical Society are separate organizations. The Museum is closely connected to the Town and the Town Clerk's office should have the information that you are looking for.
Our First Vice President, Linda Kiederer, works in the Town Clerk's office so she may be able to help us well. You can reach the Town Clerk's office at (914) 962-5722 extension 209.
We have forwarded on information on the Mekeel family from the 1830 Tax Assessment List via e-mail. Hope this helps. Good luck in your research.
Regards, Ralph Rogers
Hello,
I am doing research on the Mekeel family of Yorktown and have been looking forward to the opening of the research library in the Yorktown Community Center. When will the facilities be opening?
Linda Mekeel
I was wondering when the Yorktown Historical Museum wold be open to the public? I wouldlike to purchase photos that you have of the Whitney Hotel,the photo taken in front,showing large tree,and the dirt road going past the Barber Shop building .I understand that copies can be obtained. Thankyou, B.Carpenter
I sincerely enjoyed all the stories and photos on your site. I grew up in Yorktown in the 40's and lived on Crompond Road at what is now Curry Honda. That used to be Barkers Service Station and Restaurant. I played in the quarry across the street(against my parents wishes) and was the first female student "allowed" to take drafting at Yorktown High School (1954 to 56). How times have changed.... Thanks for all your work. Joan Barker Lambert
Dear kgreenlese@jps.net,
There is a Shrub Oak Veterans' Memorial Fund organization which is handling the new Shrub Oak memorial. It is my understanding the new monument will be placed on May 20th. You should write to Maurine Diana, Chairman of the Shrub Oak Veterans' Memorial Fund at P. O. Box 11 Shrub Oak, NY 10588 to voice your concern. The Yorktown Historical Society is not a decision maker in this project.
Thank you for submitting your query.
Regards,
Ralph
I'd like to add my desire to have my Uncle Loyal "Bud" Reynolds added to the Shrub Oak memorial. My sister Linda Mekeel has given you a run down of his contributions to the community 3/8/00. Please keep me informed as to what is decided. Thank You.
Dear keithjmac@aol.com
Thank you for submitting a query in the Guestbook of the Yorktown Historical Society's web site. We are always interested in receiving feedback and questions on Yorktown's history.
While I don't have specific pictures our Research & Communications committee members will keep your request in mind when doing additional research.
According to our Historic House Tour records, this house was on one of our tours in 1987 with the following entry.
Crosby/Bruderer Circa 1870¹s Tenant farm house. Once lived in by Peter Crosby, who is believed to be a descendant of Emil Crosby. The Crosby family was well known during the Revolutionary War period and visited frequently by the Rev. Silas Constant. Part of the property facing Hanover Road (formerly the King¹s Highway) contains a small cemetery with early unmarked stones, as well as later stones dated in the 1800¹s and bearing the name Brown. Original details such as exposed beams, molding, stairwell and attached garden shed can still be seen. A charming new country kitchen has been added to the back of this house.
(Yorktown Historical Society, House Tour and Traditional Holiday Party Booklet, December 13, 1987)
There was a handwrittin reference to this address so I hope someone can verify this information. Does this informaton look familiar to you?
Regards,
Ralph
A MESSAGE FROM CARAMOOR:
A program on the "Ancient Gardens of Babylon" will be presented at Caramoor...for information call 232-5035 x221 cost $15.00
I need to see a picture of Yorktown for my school
Dear dirtyjc01@aol.com
Thank you for your posting on Hallock's Mill. We will keep your interest in mind for future research. We are glad you enjoyed the web site.
In the meantime you may want to see if anyone has background on this area by finding information on the family. You can post a query on the following site.
http://genforum.genealogy.com/hallock/
Good luck and let us know if you hear anything more.
Regards,
Ralph
We are solicting suggestions for the text of the signs approved by the Yorktown Historical Society for the 2 French encampments and Pines Bridge. Please send your suggestions to me. We have a limit of roughly 1 short paragraph. 40 to 60 words for each sign Please help out Bob Giordano 914-962-2071
is there any where else the web that i can find out ytowns history. you guys did a great job. i just want to know some more. perticularly about hallocks mills. and that surrounding area. thanks
Dear Dr. Daugherty,
Here is the information on the North County News
North County News
1520 Front Street
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
Office (914) 962-4748 Fax (914) 962-6763
http://www.northcountynews.com/
Regards,
Ralph
Are there any pictures of Hanover st. around the turn of the century? Specifically 1536 Hanover St. That is where we live and have been told it was built around 1840.
Folks, Would somebody be so kind as to send me the address of the North County News. Thanks Dr Daugherty
I have numerous engravings of the croton dam (old) not sure if the house you mention is part of any of them. Call me when you get a chance. Bob Giordano 914-962-2071
I enjoyed the photos in your archive, especially the ones of the lost landmarks and the building of Croton Dam. I wonder if you have a photo of the Fairview House. According to the History of Westchester, it was built between 1855-60 on the North side of the Old Croton Dam. It must have been moved or demolished when the New Croton Dam was completed in 1907.
Also, I would be interested in you have more information related to Lydia Locke. The picture of her house in your Fire! section reminded me of cold January, 1966, when I watched the mansion burn furiously to the ground. It had been sold the previous year by Lydia and Irwin Rose to Harry Lewis and the Yorktown Management Corporation, who constructed the Loch Ledge Country Club.
Keep up the good work,
-- Bill Martin --
Dear Linda,
Thank you for sharing this information with us. You should write to Maurine Diana, Chairman of the Shrub Oak Veterans' Memorial Fund at P. O. Box 11 Shrub Oak, NY 10588.
Regards,
Ralph
My uncle, Douglas G. Reynolds is named on the Shrub Oak Veterans Memorial. His brother Loyal (Bud) Reynolds was not included in the memorial because the family moved to Mohegan Lake before he joined the Navy. My Uncle Bud was rather hurt that he was not recognized as he did graduate from Shrub Oak High School and there never was a memorial in Mohegan Lake.
"Bud" Reynolds passed away in 1996. He was a well known resident of James Street, Shrub Oak from 1948 until his death. He was a long time member of the Mohegan Fire Dept. as well as the Chaplain for the Fire Police.
I hope that as the memorial is being reconstructed,that his name could finally be included with his boyhood comrades in arms.
Sincerely, Linda Mekeel
I loved the web site and i learned alot about this. I wish that i could come and see all of this myself.
Hope you can help me out with the following. Have searched the FHC cem records to no avail.
David Tuthill b 2 June 1719 Westchester, d/__prob. North Castle m/Eliz. Horton in 1741, Chuchogue. She d/1771 prob N.Castle. He remarried Elizabeth Underhill and had 2 daughters, Hannah in 1778 unmarried, and Elizabeth b/1782 m/Abraham Lockwood,Westchester Cty. Historical Recs have David in N.CAstle from 1753-1779. Could they be in one of your cems?
David Tuttle b/1760 d/1833 Cortlandt, m/Mary Miller d/ after 1833. Where are they buried? If I'm really lucky, they will be with her parents, whoever they were.
Abraham Maynard b/5 Jan 1770 d/2 Jan 1837 Cortlandt m/ Phebe___b/1774 d/1862/3 Cortlandt.Could be buried anywhere.Daughters Elizabeth and Hannah married Tuttle brothers,Wm,& David and another relative Deborah married Peter. Hope you can help. Please let me know costs..Thanks for your assistance. Nancy Davis
Dear seanone88@aol.com
The Davenport House is a private home and typically would not have viewings of the house. The Society has had Historic House Tours of which the Davenport House has been a part. We will keep your interest in mind for a future house tour.
Thank you for your interest.
Ralph
Dear seanone88@aol.com
The Davenport House is privately owned is typically open for viewing portions of it. Periodically the Society has had a house tour of which, on occasion, the Davenport House has been a part. We will keep this in mind when future house tours are planned. When conducted the house tours are normally available only to members of the Society.
Thank you for your interest.
Ralph
I have a question about The Davenport House. I know that the house was once the home of the Yorktown Museum and it is currently privately owned. My question is, are members of the community entitled to view portions of the house inside? I realize this is probably up to the people that own the house. I can remember hearing about the story as a seventh grader in social studies and have always been interested in taking a look inside and actually seeing the place where the skirmish took place. I felt weird about knocking on the door and just asking for a look. Do the people that live there get these types of requests and do they normally honor them? Just curious. Thanks! SMG
I have a question about The Davenport House. I know that the house was once the home of the Yorktown Museum and it is currently privately owned My question is, are members of the community entitled to view portions of the house inside? I realize this probably up to the people that own the house. I can remember hearing about the story as a seventh grader in social studies and have always been interested in taking a look inside and actually seeing the palce where the skirmish took place. I felt wierd about knocking on the door and just asking for a look. Do the people that live there get these types of requests and do they normally honor them. Just curious. SMG
Mae, There was a Dutchers (sp?) Dairy and I'll find the info you want and get it to you. Recently the Yorktown Museum had a display of Dairy bottles and it included Dutcher's. The Museum will re-open soon, maybe March 1st or there-about. Thanks for your interest and keep in touch! Linda Kiederer VP Yorktown Historical Society
I have heard that there was a dairy in Yorktown called Dutchers Dairy. Could you please tell me where it was located and when it closed.
Thank you, Mae Bracken
Linda, thank you for the information about the photo of the 1930s hockey team -- it's always helpful to have additional information about the photos we publish.
Karen, we have no information about a high-school reunion - perhaps you could call the district office.
HELLO,
IN THE PHOTO OF THE 1930 HOCKEY TEAM, THE FOURTH PLAYER FROM THE RIGHT IS MY GRANDFATHER ROY ROSELL REYNOLDS.
THOUGHT SOMEONE WOULD LIKE TO KNOW.
LINDA MEKEEL
Hi, Have you heard about any Yorktown High School Reunions for the class of 1966? Karen Guisti
The Shrub Oak Veterans Memorial Committee is replacing the Shrub Oak Honor Roll monument, which is dedicated to those individuals who served in World War II from the Shrub Oak area. You can see pictures of it on our web site through the following path of button and windows: Archives‹Photo Archives‹Shrub Oak/Mohegan‹Shrub Oak Honor Roll.
If you have information on any of the 94 veterans, then please contact us via e-mail. We are interested in their biographies.
Sean, I am familiar with the building, and have always wondered what it was for, too. I'm guessing it had something to do with the NYC water system.
Hopefully, someone knows more!
Peggy Derevlany
I lived in Yorktown from 1974 to 1986 and visited there often in the late '80's (YHS class of '86). I lived on Sherry Drive (off of Edcris, in turn, off of Mohansic Ave).
I figured out that Mohansic Ave used to cross the Taconic at one point but was bisected when the parkway was expanded to three lanes. I remember my side of Mohansic Ave coming to an inglorious end, basically dead-ending in a forest. As children my friends and I would go past this point and find a trail. We would follow this trail up to an abandoned building (if you continued on the trail you ended up on a golf course, I think). This building is now hard to describe from memory. It looked like it had giant holes in it meant to connect to a sewer system or something. I vaguely (and perhaps inaccurately) remember very large pipes connected to this building. It was certainly a dangerous place for children to play.
My question is: what was this building once used for? To us it seemed like an ancient ruin left from a former civilization. Did it have some conncection to the Wilken's property? Was it a pumping station?
Oh, I have several more question of this nature regarding childhood Yorktown mysteries, but I will leave you with this for now. Could someone help me figure out what that building was all about, or put me in touch with someone who can?
Thank you very much for your attention !!!
Sean R. Love 2146 University Ave. Mountain View, CA 94040
Linda: Many thanks for your help on Dec 7,in the record dept.I will call you around Feb 1st.We would like to visit the Museum when finished. Yours Mr.B.Carpenter
Could you give me the address and telephone number for Robert Giordano azssociates? The Whitney House belonged to my grand father many years ago and would k\like to get a copy of postcard. thank you.
His committee, It is a great site. I thank you so much. My deceased relatives also thank you. They lived and worked in Yorktown for yrs.all living most of there lives here. Thanks again . Buck Carpenter Grandson of Joesph O Carpenter
Dear Historical Committee, I saw your article in the Daily Press yesterday concerning men who fought in the wars from Yorktown. Is there any way I can get any information concerning 1 of those men? You posted the Civil War section of the article, an Elijah Buchannan. I have an Elijah Buchannan in my family history. According to my information, Elijah was born 1815 and died May 31,1911. Wish to know, if you can tell me, if this is the same Elijah Buchannon as mine. Thank you for any info, Bonnie
Very nice website, I enjoyed the article about the Fire Department. The pictures are very nice as well. -John Klaus
My Great, Great, Great, Great, Great, Great, Great grandfather Andre Lamoureux was burried in Yorktown in 1809. Many of his children were also buried there. I am seeking information.
Sincerely, John Lamoreau
To: echodrive@snet.net
Thanks for the suggestion. We are trying to add as many photos as we can - time and volunteer photographers permitting! Please see the Photo Archives and click on Yorktown - I just added photos of the Amawalk Friends Meeting house and the Strang House today. Peggy Derevlany
Please add the old Quaker Church Photo to your web site. Mildred Strang was a science teacher to one of my sisters in 1936 - 1938 at the Yorktown High School.
Thank you to all who participated and made The Best Dam Race a successful event including:
Kraft Foods Inc., robert f. giordano ASSOCIATES Inc., Taconic Road Runners, WHUD, Signs Ink, Poland Spring, Northern Westchester Music School, Club Fit, Irish American Social Club of Northern Westchester and Putnam Counties Inc., Teatown Reservation, Tara Circle Glee Club, IBM, Turcos Supermarkets, Yorktown Pharmacy Inc., Foley's Graphic Center, Sanctuary Country Club, Mohegan Lake Motors Inc., Putnam County Savings Bank, Meighan & Nercarsulmer, Garafalo Mortgage Corporation, Westchester County Department of Parks, Sinapi's Ceola Manor, Taconic Opera, Rainbow Books & Blooms, Yorktown Grange Fair Association, Food Emporium, Amawalk Friends Meeting House, Magnetic Wellness Products, Support Connection, Yorktown Parks & Recreation, The Guide, and all of our volunteers.
With grateful appreciation,
Ralph Rogers
GRADUATED FROM YHS IN 1950. HAVE ORGANIZED A Y2K GATHERING FOR ALL CORNHUSKER GRADUATES OF THE 40S & 50S TO COME TOGETHER IN BANNER ELK,NC ON JUL 20-23 2000. ALL YORTOWNERS ARE INVITED THIS TOWN REMINDS ONE OF OLD YORKTOWN HEIGHTS--SMALL & QUAINT-- & CENTRALLY LOCATED TO ALL OUR GRADUATES. ALL PROCEEDS WILL BE DONATED TO YOUR SOCIETY. CONTACT ME FOR ADDITIONAL INFO. GEO & DON DAUGHERTY
There have been technical difficulties with the guestbook for approximately one month. This is a test message to determine if the problems are resolved. Apologies for any inconvenience. Peggy