The Yorktown Historical Society welcomes your comments and any historical information you may have. Scroll down to the bottom of the page to read remarks by other visitors to our site.
Please provide your e-mail address to help Historical Society members respond to your inquiries and comments.
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 Greenw