Craft Masonry in Westchester and Putnam Counties, New York

Craft Masonry in Westchester and Putnam Counties, New York
Compiled by Gary L. Heinmiller
Onondaga & Oswego Masonic Districts Historical Societies (OMDHS)
www.omdhs.syracusemasons.com
May 2011
Additions and corrections are welcomed
Note: Lodges in blue are currently active as the First Westchester-Putnam Masonic District, as of 2000.
Those in red are active in the Second Westchester-Putnam District.
Westchester
Westchester County was an original county of the Province of New
York, one of twelve created in 1683. At the time, it also included the
present Bronx County, which constituted the original Town of
Westchester (whose center was around the area today known as
Westchester Square, in the Bronx) and portions of three other towns:
Yonkers, Eastchester, and Pelham.
1788, five years after the end of the Revolutionary War, the County
was officially divided into 20 towns.
1874, the western portion of the present Bronx County, consisting of
the then towns of Kingsbridge, West Farms, and Morrisania, was
transferred to New York County.
1895 the remainder of the present Bronx County, consisting of the
Town of Westchester and portions of the towns of Eastchester and
Pelham, was transferred to New York County. By that time, the
portion of the town of Eastchester immediately north of the
transferred portion had seceded from the town of Eastchester (1892)
to become the City of Mount Vernon so that the Town of Eastchester
had no border with New York City.
Jan 1914, those parts of the then New York County which had been
annexed from Westchester County were constituted as Bronx County
No. Lodge Name Village Chartered Notes
21 Zeredatha Sing Sing 18 Jun 1850 St. John’s GL; became No. 200 in the
regular GL 27 Jun 1850; forfeit 1854
34 Courtlandt Peekskill 21 Dec 1793 61 Forfeit 7 Jun 1833; revived 27 Jun
1859
46 Westchester New Rochelle 07 May 1796 *
46 Huguenot White Plains 1886 Prev. No. 448.
72 Hiram Mount Pleasant 07 Aug 1798 ** Surrendered [not in 1818 Monitor]
73 Morton Bedford 07 Dec 1798 ** Ceased to work
74/72 Salem North Salem 20 Dec 1798 ** Forfeit Jun 1834
100 Armour Rye 10 Jun 1803 **
141 Washington Stephentown 03 Sep 1806 ** 1817 "ceased to work"; surrendered
4 Jun 1818
142 Rising Star Yonkers 22 Jun 1851 Prev. No. 393; forfeit 1831; revived
as No. 142, 22 Jun 1851;
renumbered No. 450, 7 Jun 1858
180 Westchester Ossining / Sing Sing 05 Oct 1850
186 Armour Port Chester 27 Dec 1850 Prev. Amour No. 6, St. John's GL
196 Solomon's Tarrytown 27 Dec 1850 135 Prev. No. 209, 13 Nov 1812 of White
Plains; removed to Tarrytown in
1821; 'ceased to operate' 7 Jun 1833;
revived as Solomon's 18, 15 Feb
1849, St. John's GL; returned to
GLNY as No. 196, 27 Dec 1850
200 Zeredatha Sing Sing 27 Dec 1850 prev. No. 21 in the St. John’s GL;
forfeit 1854
209 Solomon's White Plains 13 Nov 1812 ** removed to Greenburgh in 1821;

forfeit 7 Jun 1833; revived as
Solomon's 18, 15 Feb 1849, St.
John's GL; returned to GLNY as No.
196, 27 Dec 1850
382 Bedford Bedford 18 Apr 1825 422
393 Rising Sun Yonkers 06 Sep 1826 453
393 Rising Star Yonkers 26 Oct 1826 Surrendered 1831; revived as No.
142, 22 Jan 1851; renumbered No.
450, 7 Jun 1858
??? Ionic White Plains 01 Feb 1853 First Meeting date
434 Hiawatha Mount Vernon
434 Pleasantville Hiawatha Pleasantville
448 Huguenot New Rochelle 1858 Ref. page 192, 1886 GL Proc.
450 Rising Star Yonkers 07 Jun 1858 Prev. No. 393, 25 Oct 1826;
surrendered 1831; revived and
renumbered No. 142, 22 Jun 1851;
renumbered 450, 7 Jun 1828;
merged with Hastings No. 1107
(warranted ca 1931) in 1989
450 Hastings Rising Star Tarrytown 1989 227 Prev. No. 393, 25 Oct 1826;
surrendered 1831; revived and
renumbered No. 142, 22 Jun 1851;
renumbered 450, 7 Jun 1828;
merged with Hastings No. 1107
(warranted ca 1931) in 1989
473 White Plains White Plains 06 Apr 1859 Dispensation date
492 Wyoming Westchester ca 1860 *
506 Somers Somers 05 Sep 1827 ** Forfeit 5 Jun 1835
555 Diamond Dobbs Ferry 1865
555 Diamond Thistle Tarrytown 15 Dec 1989
653 Mamaro Port Chester
653 John Jay Port Chester
702 Marble Tuckahoe
702 Marble-Stewart- Tuckahoe
Winyah
708 Kisco Mt. Kisco 09 Jun 1871
736 Nepperhan Yonkers Jun 1873 Merged with Thistle Lodge No. 900 in
1978.
800 Apawamis Mamaroneck ca 1892
844 Radium Ossining ca 1904
859 Collabergh Croton-on-Hudson ca 1908
859 Collabergh-Radium Croton-on-Hudson
863 Dunwoodie Yonkers 03 Jun 1908
865 Jonkheer Yonkers 24 May 1909 *** surrendered 1947
866 Winyah Pelham ca 1909
871 John Stewart Mount Vernon ca 1909
882 Bryn Mawr Yonkers ca 1910
882 Yonkers Tarrytown Merged with Van Cortlandt Lodge
No. 1034, ca 2009.
886 Pleasantville Pleasantville ca 1911
898 Fern Brook Yonkers ca 1912
900 Thistle Yonkers ca 1912
902 Mount Masada Mount Vernon ca 1912
902 Mount Masada-Galaxy Tuckahoe
927 Gramatan Bronxville ca 1915
942 Fraternity Ossining 04 May 1916
942 Fraternity-Dunderberg Tarrytown 26 Nov 1980 Date approved by the Committee on
Charters
997 Peary Yonkers 1922
1003 Orawaupum White Plains 1922
1003 Orawaupum-Siwanoy
1013 Hartsdale Hartsdale ca 1923
1013 Daniel D. Tompkins Hartsdale ca 1923
1030 Larchmont Larchmont ca 1924 Merged with Huguenot Lodge No. 46.
1033 New Rochelle New Rochelle ca 1924
1034 Van Cortlandt Tarrytown ca 1924
1040 Hawthone Yonkers ca 1924
1055 Vernon Mount Vernon ca 1926
1070 Dunderberg Peekskill ca 1926
1086 Siwanoy New Rochelle ca 1928
1093 Harrison Harrison ca 1929
1094 Scarsdale Scarsdale ca 1929

1107 Hastings Hastings-on-Hudson ca 1931 merged with Rising Sun No. 450 in
1989
1113 Valiant Port Chester ca 1931
1136 Sleepy Hollow Tarrytown ca 1951
1154 Yorktown Mt. Kisco 16 May 1957 414 constituted date
1155 Briarcliff Croton-on-Hudson
Putnam County
When New York Colony
established its twelve counties in
1683, the present Putnam County
was part of Dutchess County.
Dutchess County also included
two towns in the present
Columbia County. Until 1713,
Dutchess County was
administered by Ulster County.
1812 - Putnam detached from
Dutchess County and created its
own county.
No. Lodge Name Village Chartered Notes
12 Phillipstown Cold Spring 1847 St. John's Grand Lodge number. In the
1851 [Dec 1850) renumbering Phillipstown
lost its No. 12 & received present No. 236
38 Columbus (Columbia?) South East 04 Aug 1794 of Tuthill, Ulster Co. in 1860
85/82 Horizontal Carmel 04 Dec 1799 Was in 'City' Grand Lodge, but soon
decamped
211 Adoniram Pawlings 16 Dec 1812 ** moved to Pattersontown [Putnam Co.] 6
Mar 1816; forfeit 7 Sep 1836
236 Philipstown Cold Spring 04 Sep 1851 147 see also No. 352, 5 Dec 1822; forfeit 1835;
revived as No. 12 in 1847 [St. John's GL];
renumbered No. 236 in 1851 [Dec 1850];
'offshoot' of this Lodge is West Point No.
877, 1910
240 Halcyon Carmel 18 Mar 1815 * Dissolved 9 Jun 1820
352 Philipstown Philipstown 05 Dec 1822 333 forfeit 1835; revived as No. 12 in 1847;
renumbered No. 236 in 1851; was in 'City'
Grand Lodge, but soon decamped.
368 Croton Carmel / Croton Falls
449c Mount Carmel Carmel 01 Jun 1825 60

Website of the: http://www.whencecameyou.com/ . Note: the graphics for this website are very good, but some of the history and
information on the District and Lodges is a little thin and stale-dated.
Website of the 2nd Westchester-Putnam Masonic District http://secondwestchesterputnam.com/ Note; Information is a little thin on
this website, with little or no Lodge Histories.
Courtlandt Lodge No. 34, Peekskill, New York
WARRANT: The first warrant issued to Courtlandt Lodge, No. 34, was 21 Dec 1793.
The warrant, now in possession of Courtlandt Lodge, No. 189, is dated 27 Jun 1859.
James W. Husted.
George W. Depew.
David Pugsley.
Wolff Cohen.
James M. Frear.
Benjamin F. Depew.
CHARTER MEMBERS, 1859
Charles Southworth.
James B. Brown.
George W. Harvood.
Solomon Clason.
Orlando W. Davis.
The original number was 34; when resuscitated in 1859 it was numbered 189. In June 1883, it was again changed to 34.
MINUTES: Intact only from June 27, 1859.
The early records of the Lodge were supposed to be lost beyond recovery; they were, however, found under peculiar
circumstances, and their discovery forms an interesting incident in the history of Courtlandt Lodge. The story told in the "Masonic
Standard" of June 24, 1899, is as follows:
"Shortly after the centennial Dr. PERLEY H. MASON, then Master of the Lodge, made a professional call upon Mrs. Uriah Hill,
mother of EDWARD F. HILL, a Past Master of the Lodge. During the course of a conversation she mentioned the fact that there was
in the possession of her family an old book in which there was written something about a 'Lodge.' The book was found and its pages
examined. It had been used in the Hill home for a number of years as a scrap-book by the children, they little dreaming of its
priceless value. It was found to be considerably mutilated, and clippings and pictures from newspapers were pasted over the
records. But patient and careful labor removed these and brought to light the minutes of Courtlandt Lodge, No. 34, extending from
1800 to 1818, the pages from 1793 to 1800, and after 1818, being missing. Mrs. Hill, of course, presented the book to the Lodge. A
copy of it was made, and the original was presented to the Grand Lodge, and is one of the most valuable and highly prized
antiquities in its archives."
While it is an undisputed fact that a warrant was issued by the Grand Lodge to EBENEZER FOOTE, Master of Steuben Lodge of
Newburgh, to organize Courtlandt Lodge, the early years of its existence are unknown so far as any existing records give testimony,
the first recorded meeting in the old minute book being dated July 10, 1800. Many items both interesting and curious appear on the
pages of this old book.
The following resolution is found under date of April 27, 1801:
"WHEREAS, it is represented to this Lodge that our W.'. BRO. Hon. DEWITT CLINTON, who is the proxy of this Lodge, who has
removed to Queens County, on Long Island, and from his distance from the City of New York cannot regularly attend the Grand
Lodge: Therefore, on motion, resolved, that our W.'. BRO. GEO. CLINTON, Past Master of Warren Lodge, who is an honorary
member of this Lodge be and he hereby is, appointed our proxy to represent this Lodge in the Grand Lodge of the State."
At the Communication of February 15, 1802, and in fact at frequent communications, there were candidates instructed in each of the
three degrees on one and the same night. On April 12th it was decided that the Mark Lodge, which must have been organized about
that time, might meet in the room. It was also decided that, in the future, candidates must pay a fee of two dollars with their
proposition.
On October 5th, of the same year, a motion was made and seconded that “a qr. Cask of London Particular wine shall be sent for, for
the use of this Lodge.” On December 5th it was moved and seconded that there be a meeting of the members on St. John's Day at
5 o'clock, and that "1 box of candles and a cask of crackers be sent for."
The finding of such records on the minutes is sufficient proof that the members of Courtlandt Lodge at that early period were as fond
of the good things of life and enjoyed the pleasure of entertaining as those do who direct her affairs at the present time.
On December 10, 1804, a motion was made and seconded that General PIERRE VAN CORTLANDT be summoned to answer to
the Lodge for his non-attendance, agreeable to summons. It was also agreed that the Lodge meet on December 27th to celebrate
St. John's Day at 10 o'clock, and that a committee be appointed to procure a preacher.
On October 23, 1809, it was resolved "that our W.'. Br. ISRAEL PURDY of the City of New York, be admitted an honorary member
of this Lodge, and that he be appointed as proxy to represent this Lodge in the Grand Lodge of the State."
The subject of dividing the State in districts and the appointment of "Inspectors," as they were at first termed, was first considered by
the Grand Lodge on December 5, 1804, but definite action was not taken until February 19, 1806. (MCCLENACHAN, "History," vol.
ii., page 214.)
At first Peekskill was in the first district, but on June 12, 1816, a change was made and Peekskill was afterward included in the
second district.
The appointed officers were than styled "Grand Visitors." That these officers performed the duties required of them and occasionally
visited the Lodges in their respective districts is true in the case of R.'. W.'. EBENEZER WADSWORTH, as we find under date of
March 27, 1817, that "The Worshipful Grand Master appeared and produced satisfactory credentials of his appointment as Grand
Master of the Grand Lodge. The Grand Visitor then made communication to the Lodge, showing the division of the State of New
York into Grand Visitational districts and the appointment of Grand Visitors in each district."
The Lodge resolved that the credentials of the Grand Visitor were entirely satisfactory, and that they highly approved of the doings
of the Grand Lodge, in the regulations, information of which is given by the Grand Visitor. It was then proposed by the Grand Visitor,
R.'.W.'. EBENEZER WADSWORTH, that upon the payment of the sum of $37.75 he would accept the same in satisfaction of all
arrearages of dues of the Lodge up to the first day of June, 1816. "The Lodge accepted the proposition and paid the money."
The old minute book ends with the meeting of December 27, 1817. There is no further authentic record of what ultimately became of
the original Courtlandt Lodge; the first record of Masonic activity in Peekskill of which we have any reliable record is the organization
of a Courtlandt Lodge, No. 11, warranted by St. John's Grand Lodge, May 10, 1847. This Lodge worked under this warrant for about

four years, when it was absorbed into the present Grand Lodge on the occasion when the two grand bodies united; it then became
No. 189, but for some reason had but a short existence and the charter was suspended.
For several years Masonry was but little known in Peekskill. There was, however, a latent spark of vitality concealed in the bosoms
of some of the members of the old Lodge, which needed only some little effort to rekindle; at last in 1859 the time seemed
opportune for a successful effort, and the right man was there to revive and again place Courtlandt Lodge into active work.
This brother was General JAMES W. HUSTED, afterward Grand Master of the State of New York, who, securing the co-operation of
a number of Masons residing in Peekskill, an application was made for the charter, and on June 27, 1859, a warrant was granted to
"Courtlandt Lodge, No. 189," which number was retained until June, 1883, when it was changed to "No. 34."
The Lodge assisted M.’.W.'. JOHN W. VROOMAN, Grand Master, in laying the corner stone of the Depew Opera House, with
Masonic ceremonies on October 21, 1890.
From 1859 to 1867 the Lodge occupied rooms on the corner of Main and Division Streets; its present quarters are in Masonic Hall
on South Street.
William Nelson, Member of Congress.
George W. Robertson, State Senator.
Chauncey M. Depew, United States Senator.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chauncey_Depew
MEN IN PUBLIC LIFE
James K. Apgar, Member of Assembly.
James W. Husted, Speaker of Assembly.
James W. Husted, Jr., Member of Assembly.
David W. Travis, Member of Assembly.
Chauncey Mitchell Depew (April 23, 1834 – April 5, 1928) served as a United States Senator from New York from 1899 to 1911.
He was educated at Peekskill Military Academy. Yale University, second dispute appointments Junior and Senior years; speaker at
Junior Exhibition and Commencement; member of the Thulia Boat Club, Linonia (third president), Kappa Sigma Epsilon, Kappa
Sigma Theta, Psi Upsilon, and Skull & Bones.
Depew read law with William Nelson of Peekskill, New York from 1856-58; was admitted to the
bar in March, 1858; and practiced in Peekskill until 1861; later engaged in the brokerage
business in New York City as member of firm of Depew & Potter for a few months; then resumed
his law practice in Peekskill, but shortly afterwards moved to New York City; in 1865 appointed
and confirmed United States Minister to Japan, but declined the appointment to pursue his
railroad career.
In 1866, Depew became the attorney for New York & Harlem
Railroad. Three years later he took the same position for the New
York Central and Hudson River Railroad. Having earned
recognition for his work with subsidiary companies of the
Vanderbilt roads, he was moved up in 1876 to become general
counsel and director of the whole "Vanderbilt System." Six years
later he began serving on the executive board of the New York
Central & Hudson River Railroad as second vice president. In
1885, he was elected president of the railroad and served until
1898. Following the presidency, he served as chairman of board of
directors of New York Central Railroad Company.
While Depew was active in the Vanderbilt roads in New York he held concurrent positions with many
other railroads and companies. He was president of West Shore Railroad. He served on the boards
of directors for the New York and Harlem Railroad, the Chicago and North Western Railway, the
Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis and Omaha Railroad, the Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago and St.
Louis Railroad, the Delaware and Hudson Railroad, the New Jersey Junction Railroad, the St. Lawrence and Adirondack Railroad,
the Walkill Valley Railroad, the Canada Southern Railroad.
Aside from railroads, Depew also served on the boards of director for Western Union, the Hudson River Bridge Company, the
Niagara River Bridge Company, the New York State Realty & Terminal Company, the Union Trust Company, Equitable Life
Assurance Company, and Kensico Cemetery Association. He was appointed regent of the
He was a member of the New York State Assembly in 1862 and 1863, in the latter year its Acting Speaker while Speaker
Theophilus C. Callicot was under investigation. [1] From 1863 to 1865 he was New York Secretary of State. He was one of the
commissioners appointed to build the state capitol 1874; in 1867 appointed clerk of Westchester County by Governor Fuller, but
resigned after a short service; made immigration commissioner by New York Legislature in 1870, but declined to serve; member of
boundary commission of the state of New York in 1875; had also been commissioner of quarantine and president of Court of Claims
of New York City and commissioner of taxes and assessments for the city and county of New York; defeated for Lieutenant
Governor of New York on the Liberal Republican-Democratic ticket in 1872; candidate for United States senator in 1881, but
withdrew after the fortienth ballot, declined nomination as a senator in 1885, but elected to the Senate in 1898 and served from
March 4, 1899, to March 3, 1911; stumped the state of New York for John C. Fremont in 1856 and for Lincoln in 1860; delegate-atlarge
to Republican National conventions 1888-1904 and delegate to all following conventions, including 1928, being elected the
day before he died; made the nomination speeches for Harrison in 1892, Governor Morton in 1896, and Fairbanks in 1904; at the
convention in 1888 received ninety-nine votes for the presidential nomination, and in 1892 declined an appointment as Secretary of
State in Harrison's cabinet; Adjutant of the 18th Regiment, New York National Guard, which served in the American Civil War, and
later Colonel and Judge Advocate of the 5th Division, on the staff of Major General James W. Husted of the New York Guard,
trustee of Peekskill Military Academy; president of New York State Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, of The Pilgrims
5

from 1918 until his death, of the St. Nicholas Society, and of the Union League for seven years (member since 1868 and elected
honorary life member at the close of his presidency); an officer of the French Legion of Honor; vice president of New York Chamber
of Commerce 1904-08 (member since 1885).
Yale
He was a member of Yale Corporation 1888-1906; member of the Yale Alumni Association of New York at the time of its
organization in 1868, its third president (1883-1892), and one of the incorporators of the Yale Club of New York City in 1897; a vice
chairman of the $20,000,000 Yale Endowment Campaign; made LL D. Yale 1887; elected an honorary member of Yale Class of
1889 in 1923; By the terms of his will, a bequest of $1,000,000 was left to Yale without restrictions as to its use.
Associations
He was made an honorary member of Columbia chapter of Phi Beta Kappa in 1887; member of citizens' committee of the civic
organization to complete the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City; in 1918 gave a statue of himself to Peekskill and
10 acres (40,000 m 2 ) of land for an extension of Depew Park, which he gave to the village in 1908. He was also a distinguished
orator and after-dinner speaker; author: Orations and After Dinner Speeches (1890), Life and Later Speeches (1894), Orations,
Addresses and Speeches (eight volumes) (1910), Speeches and Addresses on the threshold of Eighty (1912), Addresses and
Literary Contributions on the Threshold of Eighty-two (1916), Speeches and Literary Contributions on the Threshold of Eighty-four
(1918), My Memories of Eighty Tears and Marching On (1922); Miscellaneous Speeches on the Threshold of Ninety-two (1925);
contributed a My Autobiography" in 1922, and an article to the 50th Anniversary Supplement of the Tale Daily News entitled "An
Optimistic Survey" in 1928; member Metropolitan Museum of Art, American Association for the Advancement of Science, Society of
Colonial Wars, Connecticut Society of the Society of the Cincinnati, Holland Society, Huguenot Society, New England Society,
France-America Society, New York Historical Society, St. Augustine (Fla.) Historical Society, American Scenic and Historic
Preservation Society, National Horse Show, Lafayette Post of the G. Al R , and St. Thomas' (Episcopal) Church, New York; made
life member of Lawyers' Club of New York in 1918; honorary member New York Genealogical and Biographical Society.
Death due to bronchial pneumonia. Buried in family mausoleum in Hillside Cemetery, Peekskill.
Family
His father, Isaac Depew, was a merchant and farmer; pioneer in river transportation between
Peekskill and New York; son of Abraham Depew, who served in the Revolutionary Army, and
Catherine (Crankheit) Depew, great-grandson of Captain James Cronkite of the Continental
Army; descendant of Frangois DuPuy, a French Huguenot, who came to America about 1661,
settled first in Brooklyn, N. Y., and in 1685 bought land from the Indians at the present site of
Peekskill. Mother, Martha Minot (Mitchell) Depew; daughter of Chauncey Root Mitchell, a lawyer,
and Ann (Johnstone) Mitchell; granddaughter of the Rev. Justus Mitchell (BA 1776); greatgranddaughter
of the Rev. Josiah Sherman (B A. Princeton 1754, honorary M.A. Yale 1765), who
served as a Chaplain with rank of Captain in the Revolutionary War and the brother of American
founding father Roger Sherman; descendant of Matthew Mitchell, who came to Boston from
England in 1635, descended also from Capt. John Sherman, an English officer, who was born in
Dedham, Essex County, in 1615, and from the Rev. Charles Chauncey (B.A. Trinity College,
Cambridge, 1613), who came to Plymouth in 1637 and was the second president of Harvard.
Married (1) November 9, 1871, in New York City, Elise A., daughter of William and Eliza Jane (Nevin) Hegeman. One son,
Chauncey Mitchell, Jr. . Mrs. Depew died May 7, 1893 Married (2) December 27, 1901, in Nice, France, May, daughter of Henry and
Alice (Hermann) Palmer.
Depew was also the paternal uncle of Ganson and Chancey Depew, sons of his brother William Beverly Depew. Ganson Depew
was a vice president of the Buffalo & Susquehanna Coal Company; and the personal assistant of his father-in-law Frank Henry
"F.H." Goodyear. Goodyear was the president of the Buffalo & Susquehanna Railway. Chancey DePew, like his uncle, also worked
for the Vanderbilt Railway Systems.
When Chauncey Depew died, he was buried in Peekskill. In his honor, the huge concourse of Grand Central Terminal was draped in
mourning.
External links
Chauncey Depew at the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress
Chauncey M. Depew at Find A Grave
Works by Chauncey Depew at Project Gutenberg
Mr. Lincoln and New York: Chauncey M. Depew
The 1899 Empire State Society Register
Vanderbilt Railroads President Scripophily.net
Image of Chauncey Depew from "1888 Presidential Possibilities" card set t207.com
6

George W. Robertson
NY Times – 18 Sep 1906
GRAND LODGE OFFICERS
James W. Husted, Grand Master. George W. Robertson, District Deputy Grand Master.
John Ombony, District Deputy Grand Master.
George E. Briggs, Grand Steward.
There is no complete record of the Masters of the original Courtlandt Lodge. As far as can be gathered from reliable sources the
Masters were as follows:
Pierre Van Courtlandt. Dr. Nathaniel Stanley.
Joel Frost. St. John Constant.
Solomon Levy. Justice Hyatt.
Nathaniel Lane. Samuel Clapp.
Gilbert Bishop. William Nelson.
Daniel W. Birdsall.
1859. James W. Husted.
1860. James W. Husted.
1861. O. W. Davis.
1862. Isaac J. Oakley.
1863. Thomas H. Plumb.
1864. John Ombony.
1865. John Ombony.
1866. O. W. Davis.
1867. O. W. Davis.
1868. O. W. Davis.
1869. David W. Travis.
1870. George W. Sykes.
MASTERS
MASTERS OF THE PRESENT COURTLANDT LODGE.
1871. O. W. Davis.
1872. Robert Brown.
1873. Robert Brown.
1874. Robert J. Post
1875. George W. Sykes.
1876. Bruce Scribner.
1877. Bruce Scribner.
1878. Bruce Scribner.
1879. James H. Phyfe.
1880. James H. Phyfe.
1881. James H. Phyfe.
1882. A. D. Dunbar.
1883. James H. Phyfe.
1884. A. D. Dunbar.
1885. George W. Robertson.
1886. George W. Robertson.
1887. George W. Robertson.
1888. George W. Robertson.
1889. George W. Robertson.
1890. George W. Robertson.
1891. C. L. Gardiner.
1892. George W. Robertson.
1893. C. L. Gardiner.
1894. Perley H. Mason.
1895. Joseph M. Fox.
1896. Edward F. Hill.
1897. Edward F. Hill.
1898. Henry P. Dain.
1899. George E. Briggs.
1900. James C. Ward.
1901. Fred A. Smith.
1902. John Towart, Jr.
1903. Lanning G. Roake.
Daniel W. Birdsall (1735—1800) was supervisor and town clerk for Cortlandt from 1816 to 1822; m1. Phoebe Brown; m2. Letitia
Lewis. His brother, Samuel Birdsall, was also married twice. Daniel ran an inn there which boasted having George Washington as a
guest. [ref. Along the Hudson and Mohawk: the 1790 journey of Count Paolo Andreani – p. 39]
-----
7

http://books.google.com/books?id=L0kVAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA204&dq=%22St.+John+Constant%22&hl=en&ei=WcfcTYOAA4fk0QGIw
qHhDw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=2&ved=0CC8Q6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q=%22St.%20John%20Constant%22&f=fa
lse page 204.
St. John Constant, b. 7 May 1770, Waterbury, CT; d. 13 Feb 1847, Peekskill, NY, son of Rev. Silas Constant (1750-1825) and
Amy (Ame) Lewis (1751-1805); m. 2 Jul 1782 Jane Hyatt, d/o Nathaniel Hyatt and Mary Merritt. Mr. Constant served as president of
the village of Peekskill, 1828, 1831-32-33; supervisor for the town of Cortlandt, 1833; judge of the Court of Common Pleas, 1806-
1812, 1822; sheriff of Westchester County, 1807-1810, 1811-1814; and he was one of the first trustees of the Independent
Presbyterian Church of Peekskill, 29 Sep 1813. Constant Avenue, Peekskill, is named for him.
Children:
1. Lewis Constant, b. 26 May 1793; d. 13 Aug 1868; m. 4 Mar 1812, Eliza, d/o Jacob Nelson; lived and died at Caldwell's
Landing, NY, and had a large family.
2. Samuel Constant, b. 26 May 1793; d. the same day.
3. Nathaniel Constant, b. 15 Nov 1795; d. 11 May 1813.
4. Susan Constant, b. 18 Oct 1798; d. 16 Feb 1831.
5. Joseph Constant, b. 07 May 1801; d. 21 Oct 1864. unmarried
6. Emma Constant, b. 05 Sep 1803; d. 9 Mar 1888; m. 26 Oct 1826, Henry A. Rundle of Peekskill.
7. Jane Constant, b. 04 Jul 1805; d. I Nov 1879; m. 17 Apr 1826, James Birdsall, of Peekskill.
8. Silas Constant, b. 11 Nov 1807; d. the following day.
9. St. John Constant, b. 24 Sep 1809; d. 7 Dec 1843 at Peekskill
10. Silas Constant, b. 11 May 1812; d. 23 Jun 1885; m. at Peekskill, 29 May 1837, Caroline Room Swan, of Brooklyn.
-----
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_4_Q_to_Z.htm
< Pierre Van Cortlandt (1721-1814) First Lieutenant Governor of New York, serving 18
years, from 1777 to 1795. b. in Cortlandt Manor, Croton-on-Hudson, NY, 10 Jan 1721. His
Dutch ancestors, who came to America in 1638, had become prominent in New York. He was
the father of Philip Van Cortlandt. The early deaths of his brothers left him at the head of
the family. Was a member of the provincial convention, the council of safety and the
provincial congress. In 1777 he was president of the convention at Kingston which framed the
first constitution of New York. He is listed as the first Master of Cortlandt Lodge No. 34 of
Peekskill, NY. On 10 Dec 1804 he was sent a summons to answer for his non-attendance. d.
1 May 1814.
Peter [Philip] Van Cortlandt (1749-1831) Officer of the Revolution; U.S. Congressman. b. 1
Sep 1749 in Cortlandt Manor at Croton-on-Hudson, the son of Pierre Van Cortlandt, q.v., the
first lieutenant governor of New York. Graduate of King's Coll. (now Columbia) in 1758.
Became a surveyor. In Jun 1775, he was commissioned lieutenant colonel of the 4th battalion, N.Y. Inf., and in Nov 1776 made
colonel by Washington and placed in 2nd N.Y. regiment. At the end of the war he was breveted brigadier general by congress. He
served with General Sullivan on his Western NY expedition; was present at the surrender of Burgoyne; took part in the Va.
campaign, and witnessed the surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown. Later was a member of the NY state assembly and senate and
was U.S. Congressman from 1793-1809. Was treasurer of the Society of the Cincinnati for N.Y. many years, and when Lafayette
came to the U.S. in 1824, Van Cortlandt accompanied him through the country. He became a member of Solomon's Lodge No. 1,
N.Y.C. on 8 Aug 1777. d. 5 Nov 1831.
Brig. Gen. Philip Van Cortlandt – painting on right was by Bro. Ezra Ames
http://www.iment.com/maida/familytree/henry/bios/generalphilipvancortlandt.htm
8

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pierre_Van_Cortlandt
Pierre Van Cortlandt (10 Jan 1721 – 1 May 1814) was the first Lieutenant Governor of the State of
New York. He was born in New York, the son of Philip Van Cortlandt (1683 -1748) (a son of New
York Mayor Stephanus Van Cortlandt) and Catherine DePeyster (a granddaughter of Johannes De
Peyster— an ancestor of Abraham DePeyster and Arent Schuyler DePeyster). A great uncle
Jacobus Van Cortlandt was mayor of New York City.
Van Cortlandt served briefly in the colonial forces during the American Revolution in spite of efforts
by British officials to ensure his loyalty to Great Britain.
Van Cortlandt was Vice President of the 4th New York Provincial
Congress which convened as the New York State Constitutional
Convention from 1776 to 1777. He lost the election as Lieutenant
Governor of New York to George Clinton who was elected both Governor
and Lt. Gov. in June 1777, but formally resigned the office of Lt. Gov.
when he took office as Governor. Van Cortlandt was elected to the New
York State Senate in 1777 and was elected Temporary President of the State Senate, and thus was
Acting Lt. Governor. In 1778, Van Cortlandt was elected Lt. Gov. to fill the vacancy, and took office on
June 30, 1778. He was re-elected five times, remaining in office until 1795.
Van Cortlandt was married to Joanna, daughter of Gilbert Livingston. He died in New York City. His
eldest son, Philip Van Cortlandt, was a Continental Army General and New York Congressman. [Painting
of Joanna in northwest room, Prophets' Chamber, of Van Cortlandt Manor. oil on canvas attributed to
Bro. Ezra Ames, probably Albany, NY, ca 1812.].
The first wife of his second son (also named Pierre Van Cortlandt) was Catherine Clinton daughter of New York Governor and
Continental General George Clinton. A brother George Washington Clinton was also a son-in-law to New York Congressman
William Floyd.Another sister of Catherine Clinton named Maria was married to Dr. Stephen D. Beekman-a grandson of Pierre Van
Cortlandt and Joanna Livingston. A cousin of Catherine was George Clinton a New York Congressman
http://www.iment.com/maida/familytree/henry/bios/joannalivingstonvancortlandt.htm#family
Children:
Brig.Gen. Philip Van Cortlandt
Catharine Van Cortlandt married Abraham Van Wyck
Cornelia Van Cortlandt
Gertrude Van Cortlandt died aged 11
Gilbert Van Cortlandt died aged 29
Stephen Van Cortlandt
Catharine Van Cortlandt married Abraham Van Wyck
Pierre Van Cortlandt U.S. Representative
Anne De Peyster Van Cortlandt [married Mayor Philip Schuyler Van Rensselaer], b. 1 Jun 1766; d. 10 Jan 1855, Albany, NY. She
was born on the family estate in Westchester County in 1766, the youngest child of future New York State Lieutenant Governor
Pierre Van Cortlandt and his wife, Joanna Livingston Van Cortlandt. Growing up on Van Cortlandt manor, Anne's childhood
experience might have been similar to that of her future husband - a Rensselaerswyck native.
She married Philip Schuyler Van Rensselaer in 1787. However, the marriage produced no children. Anna was a member and
pewholder of the Albany Dutch church. Anticipating a large family, he built an urban mansion on upper State Street. In 1790, their
home was attended by five slaves. Her personal servant was Bet, who was blamed for setting the fire that burned a core part of the
city in 1793.
Philip S. Van Rensselaer was mayor of Albany from 1798 to 1817 and again from 1819 to 1821. Van Rensselaer died in 1824. As
his only heir, she inherited Van Rensselaer's property and continued to live in their comfortable home on the north side of State
Street at the corner of Chapel.
Anne De Peyster Van Cortlandt Van Rensselaer died at home on 10 Jan 1855. A newspaper obituary characterized her as
"generous and hospitable" and possessed of "an unfailing and ever ready charity." Her will passed probate in February. This
childless widow had lived almost 89 years!
http://www.nysm.nysed.gov/albany/bios/vr/psvr5106.html
Philip S. Van Rensselaer, Junior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge of New York from 1801 to 1812, was born 13 April 1766
at the Manor House in Albany, NY. He was the second of three children born to Stephen II and his wife Catharina Livingston Van
Rensselaer. His older brother was Stephen Van Rensselaer [III] * and his sister, Elizabeth furthered the Van Rensselaer name with
marriages into the Schuyler and Ten Eyck families.
Losing his father in 1769, the boy grew up at the Manor House supported by an extensive and advantaged family. His mother remarried
in 1775 - bringing her new husband, Dominie Eilardus Westerlo, into Philip's young life.
While his older brother assumed the title of lord of Rensselaerswyck, Philip became a merchant and was headquartered in Albany.
He was able to use his legacies to invest in a number of business ventures and was a prominent member and officer of a number of
banking, insurance, transportation, and civic improvement organizations.
9

In 1787, he married Westchester native Anne De Peyster Van Corltandt - daughter of the state's first lieutenant governor.
Anticipating a large family, Philip built a grand home on upper State Street. However, the union produced no children. As early as
1790, his large home at 87 State was attended by five slaves.
He entered city government in 1793 as an alderman for the first ward. In 1798, he was appointed mayor of Albany. He was reappointed
annually until 1816 when he was replaced by relative newcomer Elisha Jenkins in a politically motivated move. However,
he was mayor again from 1819 to 1821. Over his long tenure, Albany underwent a dramatic transformation. With roots set deeply
into Albany's past, as an important member of the post-revolutionary business community, and well-connected across a range of
social and cultural institutions, Philip S. Van Rensselaer understood these diverse and potentially conflicting imperatives and was
able to help orchestrate the city's development over two key decades.
He owned a number of storehouses, space along the Albany waterfront, and a flour and plaster mill along the Normanskill - both of
which were destroyed by fire in 1820.
His long public and business careers were substantial and complex. Mayor of Albany for almost twenty years, Philip S. Van
Rensselaer died 25 Sep 1824 at age 58 at 85 State Street, Albany, NY. This city father was buried from his residence at State and
Chapel Streets.
*
http://www.sewellgenealogy.com/p213.htm#i13920
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_Van_Rensselaer_III
Stephen Van Rensselaer ,Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of New York, 1825-29, was Lieutenant Governor of New
York as well as a statesman, soldier, and land-owner, the heir to one of the greatest estates in the New York region at the
time. He was the father of Henry Bell Van Rensselaer, who was a politician and general in the Union Army during the
American Civil War.
Van Rensselaer was born in New York City, the eldest child of Stephen Van Rensselaer II {a great-grandson of Mayor of
New York Stephanus Van Cortlandt} and Catharina Livingston {daughter of Philip Livingston}. His family was very wealthy,
and the Van Rensselaer Manor House was a rich childhood environment for the young boy to grow up in. However, his
father died in 1769, when Van Rensselaer was only five, and the heir to his father's estate.
Van Rensselaer was raised by his uncle, Abraham Ten Broeck, who administered the Van Rensselaer estate after Van
Rensselaer II's untimely death. At an early age, Van Rensselaer III was raised to succeed his father as lord of the manor,
and the remarriage of his mother to Dominie Westerlo in 1775 did nothing to change this. To this end he was sent off to
school, and in 1782, Van Rensselaer graduated from Harvard University. One year later, he married Margarita Schuyler, the
daughter of renowned Revolutionary War general Philip Schuyler. Van Rensselaer was only nineteen years old, but
Margarita's death in 1801 would cause him to enter into his second marriage one year later with Cornelia Paterson, daughter
of former New Jersey Governor William Paterson.
On his 21st birthday, Van Rensselaer took possession of his family's prestigious estate, close to 12,000 square miles
(31,000 km²) in size, named Rensselaerswyck, and began a long tenure as lord of his family's manor. Van Rensselaer
desired to make money off of the land that was suddenly his, but was extremely reluctant to sell it off. Instead, he granted
tenants perpetual leases at moderate rates, which saved would-be landholders from having to pay all of their money up
front. This meant that they could invest more in their operations, which led to increased productivity in the area. Over time,
Van Rensselaer would become landlord over 3,000 tenants, and proved a lenient and benevolent landowner. His tenants,
who did not have to work in fear of sudden foreclosure or unfair treatment, were able to focus on their work, and the
productivity Van Rensselaer created benefited the entire Albany area.
Van Rensselaer also spent a great deal of time in political pursuits, it is said more out of a sense of duty than of ambition. He
served in the New York State Assembly from 1789 to 1791 and the New York State Senate from 1791 to 1796, being named
Lieutenant Governor of the state in 1795. Van Rensselaer, over his time in politics, acquired a reputation as something of a
reformer, voting in favour of extending the suffrage and going against much of New York's upper class in doing so.
In 1786, Van Rensselaer was made a major of the United States militia, which set him on a brief military career. Though the
military was not Rensselaer's major pursuit, he was a militia major-general by 1801, a path which would come to a head
during the War of 1812. Van Rensselaer, despite having held high rank in the militia for several decades, was, like most
American militia officers at the time, virtually untrained and inexperienced. Clearly, Van Rensselaer was not a good choice to
command an entire American army, but politics as much as military tactics dictated many of the military appointments of the
day.
Van Rensselaer was a leading opposition candidate for Governor of New York, and the incumbent Daniel D. Tompkins was
worried about the run the popular and wealthy Van Rensselaer could give him. However, the Republican Tompkins soon
devised a way to remove Van Rensselaer from the picture, which was to offer him command of the United States Army of
the Centre. If Van Rensselaer, who was, technically, a militia major-general, declined the post, then he would lose esteem in
the eyes of the voters. If he accepted, he would be unable to run for Governor with the Federalists. If Van Rensselaer proved
(as seemed likely) a poor general, he would be discredited and his reputation would be badly mauled. However, even if Van
Rensselaer proved a natural and was able to do well, he would not be able to run for Governor because the military powersthat-be
would refuse to remove him. Tompkins' clever maneuvering had eliminated his main rival, but it had given short shrift
to the war that had only just begun.
Van Rensselaer accepted the post, and with his decidedly more soldierly cousin Solomon as his aide-de-camp, attempted to
assure the honour of his country in the war (despite the fact that, as a Federalist, he had been against the war in the first
place). But the Army of the Centre consisted largely of soldiers like himself — untrained, inexperienced militiamen, who,
under the Constitution, did not actually have to cross over into Canada to fight. The British were in the process of fortifying
10

the Queenston Heights that Van Rensselaer would have to attack, and his officers were itching for action despite their
general's desire to delay. To make matters worse, Brigadier-General Alexander Smyth, Van Rensselaer's subordinate, had a
large force of trained regulars that was theoretically under Van Rensselaer's overall command. However, Smyth, a regular
soldier, continuously refused to obey Van Rensselaer's commands or answer his summons. With his officers planning to try
and force Van Rensselaer out, the General saw that he had to act without Smyth against the fortified Queenston Heights
position. It was a prodigious miscalculation.
On October 13, 1812, Van Rensselaer launched an attack on the British position that would evolve into the Battle of
Queenston Heights, in which Van Rensselaer's forces were badly beaten by the British generals Isaac Brock and, after
Brock's death, Roger Hale Sheaffe. Van Rensselaer's preparations and his plan of attack were clearly a major reason for the
scale of the defeat, as he was unable to secure the element of surprise, did not procure enough boats for his men to cross
easily, did not even get enough ammunition to his men. Despite badly outnumbering the British in the early stages of the
battle, the American soldiers, untried and untrained, sometimes refused to cross the river, and Van Rensselaer was not even
able to coax the boatmen into going back over to rescue the doomed attack force. The defeat at Queenston Heights spelled
the end to Van Rensselaer's military career, and after the battle, he resigned his post. Van Rensselaer's political ambitions
were far from over, but, as Daniel Tompkins had hoped, Van Rensselaer would never become Governor of New York.
After the war, Van Rensselaer still enjoyed a fair measure of popularity, and still had the energy to try to serve his country.
He was on the canal commission for twenty-three years (1816–1839), fourteen of which he served as its president. In 1821,
he was a member of the New York State Constitutional Convention, and two years later, he was elected by special election
to the seat in the House of Representatives that his cousin Solomon had vacated. He served from February 27, 1822 to
March 3, 1829, during the Seventeenth, Eighteenth, Nineteenth, and Twentieth Congresses; during the last three sessions,
he was the chairman of the Committee on Agriculture. During this time he memorably cast the vote that put John Quincy
Adams in the White House at the expense of Andrew Jackson.
After 1829, Van Rensselaer did not stand for re-election, and retired from political life to focus on educational and public
welfare interests. He was regent of the University of New York from 1819 to 1839.
Van Rensselaer was a Freemason, and twice served as Grand Master of Masons for New York.
Despite his active life, Van Rensselaer's most lasting contribution to the world was to establish, with Amos Eaton, the
Rensselaer School (now known as Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, or RPI) "for the purpose of instructing persons, who
may choose to apply themselves, in the application of science to the common purposes of life" in 1824. RPI became a wellrespected
American technological institution.
Stephen Van Rensselaer III died in 1839. He was buried on his family plot, but was later reinterred in the Albany Rural
Cemetery.
Land Holdings
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manor_of_Rensselaerswyck
Stephen II died in 1769 at the age of 27 as one of the richest men in the region. [24] Rensselaerwick Manor passed on to his
eldest son Stephen van Rensselaer III, who was five at the time of his father's death. [25] The estate was controlled by
Abraham Ten Broeck until Stephen III's twenty-fifth birthday. [25] Stephen III attended school in Albany and then New Jersey
and Kingston during the Revolution. He graduated from Harvard College in 1782. Stephen III is well known throughout
history for many achievements. In 1825, he was elected Grand Master of the New York State Grand Masonic Lodge. He was
elected to the New York State Assembly in 1789 and remained there until elected to the New York State Senate in 1791. In
1795 he was elected Lieutenant Governor of New York and he served in the United States House of Representatives from
1822 to 1829. He was also commissioned a Lieutenant General in the New York State Militia, and led an unsuccessful
invasion of Canada at Niagara in the War of 1812. His most lasting achievement was to found, with Amos Eaton, the
Rensselaer School, which developed into the present-day Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. [25]
Stephen III lived to be 75, dying in 1839. He is remembered as "The Good Patroon" and also "The Last Patroon" because he
was legally the last patroon of Rensselaerswyck. [25] At the time of his death, Stephen III was worth about $10 million
(about $88 billion in 2007 dollars) and is noted as being the tenth richest American in history. [1]
In northern New York, in the St. Lawrence Valley, Canton, NY, was one of the original ten townships, about ten miles square
and lies directly in rear of Lisbon. [Alexander] Macomb was the original purchaser [1787] of the territory from the State, who
transferred it to Edgar; Edgar to A[lexander]. Vonfeister [von Pfister]; he to Stephen Van Rensselaer, J. O. Hoffman,
Richard Har[r]ison, etc. [conveyed by Von Pfister in 1795; title examined and certified by Alexander Hamilton in 1798]. [ref.
page 141, “The law practice of Alexander Hamilton: documents and commentary,” by Alexander Hamilton, Julius Goebel,
Joseph Henry Smith at:
http://books.google.com/books?id=I90ak0rKB8gC&pg=PA141&lpg=PA141&dq=%22stephen+van+rensselaer%22+%22cant
on%22&source=bl&ots=it4vyGgrZM&sig=pllHqMa6ZDcuYPUNZrgm670EKhE&hl=en&ei=DTLeTaLfLNOBtgf5qp2LCg&sa=X
&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CBsQ6AEwADgK#v=onepage&q=%22stephen%20van%20rensselaer%22%2
0%22canton%22&f=false
By an agreement between the parties, [Richard] Harrison retained one-third of the eastern part of the [Canton, NY]
tract (about 39,460 acres), and [Stephen] Van Rensselaer the remainder (78,932 acres). Stephen Van Rensselaer, by
deed dated 13 Sep 1836, conveyed all his estate in these towns to his son Henry Van Rensselaer . . .
Two separate papers by the present compiler regarding Stephen Van Rensselaer [Grand Master] and Richard Harison
[Deputy Grand Master to Chancellor Robert R. Livingston] may be read at the OMDHS website as follows:
11

Richard Harison -DGM - Notes and References - 99 pages [16.37 MB]
This compilation may be viewed at: Richard Harison -DGM - Notes and References - 99 pages
Richard Harison - DGM - Paper - 14 pages [1.22 MB]
This is a shorter version of the first paper, and may be viewed at: Richard Harison - DGM - Paper - 14 pages
http://www.americanheritage.com/articles/magazine/ah/1974/6/1974_6_14.shtml
Stephen Van Rensselaer III had succeeded as lord of the manor upon his father’s death in 1769. As a youth Stephen III
revealed a romantic streak by eloping at eighteen. His impetuosity, however, did not extend to marrying a manor milkmaid.
The young patroon took for his bride Margaret, daughter of General Philip Schuyler. Her sister Elizabeth was married to
Alexander Hamilton.
Stephen III served both his state and his estate with equal energy. He was elected assemblyman, moved up to state
senator, then lieutenant governor, was twice defeated for governor by respectable margins, and capped his political career
as a three-term congressman. Stephen III won a footnote in Presidential history by casting the deciding vote for John Quincy
Adams when the 1824 election was thrown into the House. One story has it that Daniel Webster and Henry Clay buttonholed
Van Rensselaer and convinced him that Adams was the safest bet for the landholding class.
Rensselaerwyck was still lightly settled when Stephen III inherited the patroonship. To attract more tenants he became an
early exponent of the free introductory offer. Van Rensselaer offered patriots of the Revolution a hundred and twenty acres
of land rent-free for seven years. After that the tenant could sign a lease with the patroon and pay an annual rent figured in
so many bushels of wheat per year, four fat fowl, and a day’s labor with horse and team. This offer attracted thousands of
new tenants to Rensselaerwyck, especially as farmers fled rock-ridden New England for New York’s tillable and more fertile
acres.
The leases, drawn by Alexander Hamilton, Stephen III’s property-minded brother-in-law, were a work of legal artistry. They
skirted the state’s 1787 ban on feudal rents by making the deal not a rental but an “incomplete sale” that forever remained
incomplete.
All taxes on the land were to be paid by the tenant. The tenant could only farm the land. All rights to water, wood, and
minerals remained the landlord’s. If the tenant defaulted on his rent, the patroon’s word was enough to send off the sheriff to
seize and sell the delinquent’s crops and livestock for the amount due. If the tenant wanted to sell his lease, he was subject
to a “quarter sale”—one quarter of the sale price was to be paid to the landlord.
In short, a tenant farmer leased a tract of wilderness, cleared it, laid out his fields, and built his home and barns on the land.
Generations later his descendants would still be paying the patroon rent. If the tenant wanted to sell out, he had to pay 25
per cent of the sale price for a now-developed property—the land, home, barns, and any other improvements—to a landlord
who might never have seen the farm, tamed or wild.
Terms of the leases varied from manor to manor. Under the Van Rensselaers the lease was good as long as the tenant and
his descendants paid the rent. But most of the Livingston and Schuyler leases allowed the landland to boot out the tenants
after one, two, or even three generations. In the mid-1800’s the tightly knit manor families held 1.8 million acres with 260,000
persons living off them.
A clergyman passing through New York leasehold country early in the nineteenth century gave his view of the effects of
tenantry on the farmers:
The Americans never can flourish when on leased lands. They have too much enterprise to work for others or to remain
tenants, and where they are under the necessity of living on such lands, I find that they are greatly depressed in mind, and
are losing their animation.
Stephen Van Rensselaer in was a respected, gentle, and apparently benevolent landlord. His numerous good works and
amiable nature won Van Rensselaer the name the Good Patroon. But his most appealing quality to his tenants was his laxity
in collecting rents.
When Stephen III died, Rensselaerwyck was divided between his two eldest sons. The portion west of the Hudson, the West
Manor, went to Stephen IV. The East Manor, east of the Hudson, went to William. The old man also left approximately four
hundred thousand dollars in debts. By chance his uncollected back rents also totalled about four hundred thousand dollars.
The Good Patroon’s will stated that his debts were to be paid by collection of the back rents.
Word of the patroon’s will sent a shiver through the manor farms. Some back rents on farms in the rockbound Helderberg
Mountains, near Albany, had been accumulating for twenty years. Farmers in the hill towns knew that Van Rensselaer’s will,
if carried out, would destroy them.
http://www.nysm.nysed.gov/albany/bios/vr/svr3.html
Stephen Van Rensselaer III was born in New York City in 1764 - the first child of Stephen Van Rensselaer II and Catharina
Livingston. He grew up at the Van Rensselaer Manor House - home of the most advantaged family in the Upper Hudson
region. Losing his father at age five, he was looked after by his uncle, Abraham Ten Broeck - trustee or administrator the
Van Rensselaer estate. In 1775, his mother married Dominie Westerlo.
Raised to succeed to the title "Lord of the Manor," young Stephen was sent away to study. He graduated from Harvard in
1782.
12

He married Margarita, the daughter of General Philip Schuyler, on June 6, 1783. At age nineteen, he was six years younger
than his bride. After bearing three children, she died in 1801. In 1802, he married Cornelia Patterson, daughter of the
governor of New Jersey. She was the mother of ten children born between 1803 and 1820.
On reaching his twenty-first birthday, he took title to the family estate called Rensselaerswyck or "Van Rensselaer's Manor."
His long tenure as Manor Lord spanned Albany's transformation.
In 1788, his first ward lot was valued substantially. By 1790, he was established in the Van Rensselaer Manor House located
on the road north of Albany in what was then Watervliet. At that time, he was by far the wealthiest individual in the Albany
area and his estate was served by fifteen slaves.
He served as lieutenant governor of New York State, general of the state militia, as a member of the United States House of
Representatives, and was the founder of Renssselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Stephen Van Rensselaer III died in 1839 at the age of seventy-five." He is remembered in local lore as "The Last Patroon"
and "The Good Patroon."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pierre_Van_Cortlandt,_Jr.
Pierre Van Cortlandt, Jr. (29 Aug 1762 – 13 Jul 1848) was a US Representative from New York. He was the son of Pierre Van
Cortlandt, an early New York political figure, and brother of Philip Van Cortlandt, who was also a U.S. Representative from New
York. Pierre Van Cortlandt was born at Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton, Westchester County. He pursued classical studies and was
graduated from Queen's College (later Rutgers College) in 1783. He studied law in the office of Alexander Hamilton and was
admitted to the bar and commenced practice. He retired from his law practice and devoted his time managing his estate in
Westchester County.
In 1792, 1794 and 1795, he was a member of the NY State Assembly, and was elected as a Democratic-Republican to the 12th US
Congress, holding office from 4 Mar 1811 to 3 Mar 1813.
Van Cortlandt married Catherine Clinton, daughter of eventual Vice President of the US, George Clinton. Van Cortlandt was a
presidential elector on the Harrison ticket in 1840; he also founded and was president of the Westchester County Bank at Peekskill
from 1833 until his death there in 1848. He resided at Van Cortlandt Upper Manor House from after 1783 until his death. Interment
was in Hillside Cemetery. [Biographical Directory of the United States Congress]
-----
http://books.google.com/books?id=L0kVAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA264&lpg=PA264&dq=%22joel+frost%22+%22peekskill%22&source=bl&
ots=wan9RelIve&sig=jsQe5vrl1Cy8xxlyFCA1IIR0gn0&hl=en&ei=GdHcTbyDGoeftwet0NGnDw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&res
num=5&ved=0CDEQ6AEwBA#v=onepage&q=%22joel%20frost%22%20%22peekskill%22&f=false page 140.
Hon. Joel Frost b. 28 Sep 1765; d. 11 Sep 1827, son of John Frost and Huldah Munson. He lived at Yorktown, Peekskill, and
Croton Landing, and was buried in the Gilead Presbyterian churchyard at Carmel. He married Martha Wright, b. 22 Jul 1771; d. 21
Oct 1860, d/o Benjamin Wright and Millicent Purdy.
http://familytreemaker.genealogy.com/users/o/b/e/Barbara-Oberlee-mi/WEBSITE-0001/UHP-0169.html
Children of Joel Frost and Martha Wright:
i. Wright Frost, b. 06 Oct 1790, Yorktown, NY; d. 06 Jan 1791.
ii. John Wright Frost, b. 23 Jun 1792, Yorktown, NY; d. 07 Sep 1882, Croton-Hudson, NY.
iii. Elizabeth Frost, b. 12 Jun 1794, Yorktown, NY; d. 07 Mar 1890, Hyde Park, NY.
iv. Cornelia Frost, b. 18 Jan 1797, Peekskill, NY.
v. Niles Frost, b. 01 May 1800, Peekskill, NY; d. 26 Mar 1881, Peekskill, NY.
vi. Joel Frost, b. 21 Aug 1803, Croton, NY.
vii. Horace Frost, b. 04 Sep 1806, Croton Landing, NY.
viii. Millicent Frost, b. 22 Jul 1809, Carmel, NY; d. 24 Dec 1886, Peekskill, NY.
http://bioguide.congress.gov/scripts/biodisplay.pl?index=F000391
Joel Frost, a Representative from New York; born in Westchester County, NY, attended the public schools; member, Westchester
County Board of Supervisors, 1803; member of the State assembly, 1806-1808; first surrogate of Putnam County in 1812, and
served in 1813, 1815-1819, 1821, and 1822; member of the State constitutional convention, 1821; judge, Court of Common Pleas;
moved to Schenectady; elected as a Crawford Republican to the 18th Congress (4 Mar 1823-3 Mar 1825); d. 11 Sep 1827;
interment in Gilead Cemetery at Carmel, NY.
-----
Gen. James William Husted “Bald Eagle of Westchester” (31 Oct 1833-25 Sep 1892); Grand Master 1876.
< Engraving from Harper's Weekly, 16 Jan 1886.
Sketch of Mr. Husted’s Life.
A man who appeared to take naturally to politics
James W. Husted, a native of Bedford, Westchester Co., NY, was born on 31 Oct 1833, the son John (James in some gereaologies)
William and Caroline (Raymond) Husted. His father was a Whig. Bro. Husted began the study of politics while very young, and
13

efore he was old enough to vote he developed a degree of skill as a politicial tactician which was both the wonder and the pride of
his Bedford associates. It was said of him by Chauncey M. Depew, “There was Jim Husted, keen as a razor always. He took politics
as natuarally as a duck takes to water.”
After a preparatory course at the Bedford Academy young Husted graduated from Yale College in
1854 with honors. He promptly turned his attention politics and to law and studied with Edward
Wells of Peekskill, being admitted to the bar in 1857. The first party to which he gave his
allegiance was the Know-Nothing Party, and for about two years he was Secretary of the
American State Council. In 1855 he was chosen town Superintendent of Schools. Three years
later he was elected School Commissioner of Westchester County on the Know-Nothing ticket.
He refused to go with the Know-Nothings when they amalgamated with the Democratic Party, and
when the Utica Convention of 1859 completed that union he published a vigorous protest against
what he styled “a betrayal of the principles upon which the Know-Nothing Party was founded.” He
soon afterward cast his lot with the Republican Party. The Hon. William Barnes, State
Superintenden of the Insurance Department, appointed Bro. Barnes a Deputy Superintendent in
1860, and office which the restless young politician held until he was made a Harbormaster of
New York in 1862. Subsequently he became Deputy Collector of the port. In the meantime he
maintained his law practice in Peekskill and had more or less to say about the management of
local politics in Westchester County.
The remarkable legislative record of James began in 1859, he having been elected in the Fall of the previous year as a member of
the Assembly from the Third Westchester District. The first few days of the session enabled him to win recognition and respect as a
debater, and at the end of the session he was one of the prominent members of the lower house. In his first year he was Chairman
of the Committee on Federal Relations and a member of the Committee on Commerce and Navigation. So well did he please his
constituents that in the Fall of 1869 they re-elected him by a largely increased majority. He ran more than 800 ahead of his ticket.
His second year in the Assembly added to his reputation as a debater. He was returned to the Assembly for ten successive years,
becoming one of the most influential men in the House. In 1873 he was the Chairman of the Committee on Education.
In 1874 Bro. Husted was elected by a unanimous vote of the Republicans, to be Speaker of the Assembly for the first time,
succeeding Alonzo B. Cornell. He was re-elected in 1876 and 1878. In the summer of 1878 he announced that he would not be a
candidate for the legislature from the Westchester district again.
When the Republicans of the neighboring County of Rockland ascertained that the ‘Bald Eagle’ of Westchester was not returning to
the Assembly, they urged him to take flight to their county and try wrest an Assembly district from the Democratic stronghold of
Rockland, which he promptly accomplished in 1879. “Old Salt” Alvord was Speaker of that Assembly, and Gen. Husted was made
Chairman on Rules, also a member of the Committee on Ways and Means, Cities, Insurance, and special committee on employes
of the House. The next Autumn he was again elected to the Assembly from Rockland County; Gen George H. Sharpe became
Speaker, and to Gen. Husted was awarded the Chairmanship of the Committee on Ways and Means.
The Republicans of his old district insisted on his returning in the Fall of 1880, where they again sent him to the Assembly with a
rousing majority. He served that year on the Judiciary Committee and on the committees on two-thirds and three-fifths bills. From
1884 on Gen. Husted’s Weschester constituents clung to him loyally and elected him to the Assembly each succeeding year.
The adjournment of the Legislature of 1892 rounded off 22 years of continuous service, and he alone enjoyed the high distinction of
having been elected Speaker of the Assembly for the sixth time on the occasion of which on 7 Jan 1800 the General said: ”This
marked expression of your confidence and regard fills to the brim the cup of my legislative ambition. A service bounded by the exact
period of legal manhood is crowned at your hands by a reward which finds no parallel on the records of the State.”
The rank of General was conferred upon Bro. Husted by Governor Dix, who in March 1873 appointed him to be Major General of the
Fifth Division of the National Guard, in place of General Gates, who had resigned. The appointment was so well received that the
Assembly unanimously passed a resolution thanking Gov. Dix for making it. Prior to his promotion, Gen. Husted has been Judge
Advocate on the staff of the Seventh Brigade, State Militia. He continued in command of the Fifth Brigade for several years, and he
was President of the New York State Military Association in 1875-76.
Bro. Husted joined the Masonic fraternity in early life having been a Knights Templar and serving as a District Deputy Grand Master
and:
1870-73 Junior Grand Warden
1874-75 Senior Grand Warden
1876 Grand Master, F&AM, of the State of New York
Crowned an Hononary Member, 33 o , Supreme Council, AASR, NMJ
He also served as vestryman of St. Peter's Episcopal Church. Besides his pleasant home in Peekskill, he also had a camp in the
Adirondacks where he delighted to entertain his friends. He married, 21 Dec 1859, at Peekskill, NY, Helen Mar Southard, born 14
Mar 1841, at Croton, NY, died 20 Jan 1909, at Peekskill. She was the daughter of Thomas D. and Harriet (Jordan) Southard.
Children of James and Helen were ( http://www.usgennet.org/usa/topic/historical/SouthernNewYork2/sny2_pt102.htm ):
1. Thomas Daniel b. 18 Sep 1860; d. 11 Jan 1905; Yale 1883; m. Carrie L. Clinton
2. Carrie m. 21 Nov 1889, John Myer Shedd, a lawyer
3. James William, Jr. b. 16 Mar 1870; d, 2 Jan 1925; Yale 1892; m. 12 Jun 1895, Louise W. Spalding
4. Helen Southard
5. Harriet Anna student at St. Agnes School, Albany, NY
14

-----
Biography continued at Appendix I
http://wc.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?op=GET&db=macagor&id=I0552
Nathaniel Lane, b. 1737 in Cortland Manor, Westchester, NY; d. 28 Nov 1811 in Mahopac Falls, Putnam, NY; m. Eleanor ____.
Children
Elizabeth LANE b. 1767 in Courtland Manor, Westchester, NY
Nathan Jr. LANE b. 1779
George C. LANE b. 1783
http://www.historyforsale.com/html/prodetails.asp?bw=0&documentid=78262
William Nelson (1784-1869) served in a succession of offices for New York: State Assembly (1819-1821), State Senate (1824-
1827), Judge of the Court for Correction of Errors (also 1824-1827), and US Representative (1847-1851). A member of the Whig
Party, he was known for his collection of hats. Nelson died in Peekskill and is buried there.
http://familytreemaker.genealogy.com/users/r/a/p/Ginger-Sue-Rappley/WEBSITE-0001/UHP-0041.html
William Nelson b. 29 Jun 1784 in Poughkeepsie, NY; d. 2 Oct 1869 in Peekskill; bur. Hillside Cemetery, Peekskill; son of Thomas
Nelson and Sarah Wright; m. 9 Feb 1812 in Peekskill on the Hudson Cornelia Mandeville Hardman, daughter of John and Dorinda
Hardman.
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=8610530
Children of William Cornelia Nelson:
Richard James Nelson d. 27 Oct 1835.
Dorinda Hardman Nelson b. 25 Jan 1813; d. 3 Mar 1876; m. John D. Arthur.
Joseph Nelson, b. 04 Mar 1815, Peekskill, NY; d. 6 Nov 1905, Chicago, IL.
George Parker Nelson b. 25 Jan 1817; d. 27 Sep 1905
Thomas Nelson b. 1819 Peekskill; d. 26 Jul 1907 NYC; m. Cornelia L. Seymour
Sarah Ann Nelson b. 15 Jan 1821; d. 7 Dec 1908; m. Jonathan Henry Ferris.
William Rufus Nelson b. 29 Nov 1822; d. 21 Feb 1864.
Elizabeth Parker Nelson b. 11 Dec 1826; m. ____ Johnson?
Edward Beverly Nelson b. Dec 1832; d. 28 May 1837.
Laura Young Nelson b. 1836; d. 2 Apr1839.
Robert D. Nelson b. 15 May 1839; d. 20 Feb 1888; m. Mary B. Travis
History of Westchester County: New York . . ., Volume 1, Part 1, edited by John Thomas
Scharf, page 543.
http://books.google.com/books?id=qj0WAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA543&lpg=PA543&dq=%22William+Nelson%22+%22peekskill%22&sour
ce=bl&ots=CslxbwkmKO&sig=JuUGs0lSgGo8dY5aVkvvF2kP0OQ&hl=en&ei=_R_dTfaLFpCUtweKmpDLDw&sa=X&oi=book_result
&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CCwQ6AEwAjgK#v=onepage&q=%22William%20Nelson%22%20%22peekskill%22&f=false
Hon. William Nelson of Peekskill was in the first half of this century prominent in this county, both as a lawyer and a business man.
His paternal ancestors were of English origin and Puritans. The first one of them who came to this country settled up'on a farm in
Marnaroneck, in this county, about the middle of the seventeenth century. The Nelsons were leading men in the county during the
colonial times. One of them, Polycarpus Nelson, was a signer of the famous declaration by the chief citizens of this country, in
support of William and Mary, and in opposition to the House of Stuart.
A branch of the Nelson family settled in Dutchess County, where, at Cram Elbow Creek, on June 29, 1784, William Nelson was
born. His father, Thomas Nelson, was a farmer, and William was reared as a farmer's son, working upon the farm in summer and
attending district school in winter. He did not have the advantages of a collegiate education. He studied law at Poughkeepsie in the
office of Theron Rudd, then an attorney of distinction and large practice, and in 1807 was admitted to the bar. He had intended
settling in the extreme West, which was then Buffalo, but circumstances diverted him to Peekskill, where he spent a long, busy and
honorable life. He probably did as much as, if not more than, any other person to promote the growth and development of that place.
Among other good works, he was largely instrumental in establishing the deservedly famous Peekskill Academy. As a lawyer he
ranked high, not so much for eloquence or skill at the bar as for industry, good common sense and integrity. Plis sterling qualities
were appreciated by the people, and brought him a large and lucrative practice and many public honors.
From 1815 to 1818 he was district attorney of his district, comprising the counties of Westchester, Putnam and Rockland.
Afterwards, when his district comprised Westchester alone, he held the same position. He held it altogether more than twenty five
years. He was also an Assemblyman from 1819 to 1822; State Senator, and as such, a member of the court for the correction of
errors from 1824 to 1827; and Congressman from 1847 to 1851.
In 1812 he married Cornelia M. Hardman, and lived happily with her until her death—a period of fifty-seven years. He survived her
only five weeks, and died on the 2d day of October, 1869, in the eighty eixth year of his age. They reared a large number of
children, several of whom have attained to prominent positions, and fully maintain the distinguished name of the family.
William Nelson had the happy, and, for lawyers, somewhat rare, faculty of business skill and sagacity in the management of his own
affairs. He left an estate valued at nearly one million dollars. In this respect he undoubtedly excelled all other members of the
Westchester County bar, past or present.
15

His character has been well expressed by another, in these words: "Mr. Nelson had great natural vigor of character; was painstaking
and unwearied in every duty to which he addressed himself. He was wise in counsel, and eminently sagacious and practical, genial
in nature, courteous in manner, simple in his mode of life, and, above all, possessed a rare singleness of purpose and integrity of
nature. These qualities, in addition to a piety that was devout, but unobtrusive, enabled him to sway a large influence over his
friends and neighbors, and all other persons with whom he came in contact. His whole life illustrated the true republican simplicity
and integrity which characterized the earlier days of the State."
http://johngtesta.com/lincoln.html
Photo of President-elect Lincoln taken Feb 1861 in Springfield, IL, two days before leaving on his trip to
Washington D.C. for his inauguration, depicts what he looked like when he spoke in Peekskill 10 days later.
-----
On 19 Feb 1861 President-elect Abraham Lincoln made his only stop in Westchester County, NY as he
traveled by train from his home in Springfield, Illinois to Washington D.C., for his inauguration as President of
the United States.
The stop in Peekskill was prompted by an invitation sent to Lincoln by Peekskill resident and lawyer William
Nelson, a colleague of Lincoln’s during their time together in Congress. Lincoln made his short address from
a small platform placed on a baggage car located on the grounds of the railroad depot at the end of centre
Street (now Central Avenue). Many residents of the town were there (over 1000 people) to witness the soonto-be
President for the first time. After a short introduction by Nelson, Lincoln made the following remarks
before re-boarding his train and continuing on his journey:
"I have but a moment to stand before you and thank you for this reception, and for the pleasant manner in which it is tendered
to me by our mutual friends. I will say in a single sentence, in regard to the difficulties that lie before me and our beloved
country, that if I can only be as generously and unanimously sustained as the demonstration I have witnessed indicate I shall
be, I shall not fail; but without your sustaining hands I am sure that neither I nor any other man can hope to surmount these
difficulties. I trust in the course I shall pursue I shall be sustained not only by the party that elected me, but by the patriotic
people of the whole country."
http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~nyputnam/history/chapXXIX/29putval.htm
Isaac J. Oakley was born in Putnam Valley in 1823, attended district schools and was a farmer. He married, in 1854, Elizabeth S.
Brown, of Westchester county. He was an officer in the M. E. church many years.
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=34828415
Isaac J. Oakley b. 15 May 1823; d. 17 Aug 1906; m. Elizabeth S. Brown (1830-1913); both bur. Old Van Cortlandtville Cemetery,
Peekskill, NY. Child: Sarah J. Oakley Griffin (1854 - 1943)
-----
16

John Ombony
http://query.nytimes.com/mem/archive-free/pdf?res=F3071FF8345E10738DDDA10894DA405B8184F0D3
8 Feb 1881 - © The New York Times
http://books.google.com/books?id=w2_iAAAAMAAJ&pg=RA1-PA117&lpg=RA1-
PA117&dq=%22John+Ombony%22+%22peekskill%22&source=bl&ots=AakZSlUzA-
&sig=TFgofu3ZpNwfsZA8_7zsg8OX8qQ&hl=en&ei=Wi_dTam3NKno0QHd4NW5Dw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=2&v
ed=0CBsQ6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q=%22John%20Ombony%22%20%22peekskill%22&f=false page 117.
At the opening of the session of the Grand Chapter the Grand High Priest announced that he had just learned of the death of
Companion John Ombony, which took place at his home in Peekskill the day before, January 30, 1881.
Companion Ombony was a member of the Committee on Foreign Correspondence, and we had come to know him well, and to
honor and respect him for his manliness, intelligence and probity. He was a guileless man, a pure and good Mason; reliable on all
subjects and occasions, whenever called upon to act; faithful to every duty, consistent in life, and, like a sheaf of wheat fully ripe,
was garnered by the dread reaper death to eternal rest, beloved by all who knew, and mourned by those who survive him. The
Grand Chapter was a bright spot to Companion Ombony, he loved to be there, and it was a pleasure to look upon his genial face,
take him by the hand and receive his cordial greeting and benediction. He "rests from his labors," and we drop a tear to his memory,
and say in all sincerity, "Peace to his ashes"— he has gone on and up higher, he is not lost, and will not be forgotten. The veteran
sleeps but he shall rise again, and the "mortal shall put on immortality."
-----
http://www.ebooksread.com/authors-eng/charles-e-charles-elliott-fitch/encyclopedia-of-biography-of-new-york-a-life-record-of-menand-women-whose-ster-hct/page-18-encyclopedia-of-biography-of-new-york-a-life-record-of-men-and-women-whose-ster-hct.shtml
Thomas H. Plumb, born and educated in Nottinghamshire, England, came to the United States in 1855, a young man and a
machinist by trade. He located in Peekskill, New York, where for ten years he followed his trade, becoming foreman of the largest
machine shop in Peekskill. About 1870 he moved to Troy, New York. There he found lucrative employment, and for years his
special work was supervising and erecting machinery used on the sugar plantations of Cuba and elsewhere. He was a skilled
mechanic, forceful, capable as a business man and as a manager of men, and wherever known was esteemed and respected. For
forty years he was a member of the Masonic order, being a Past Master of Courtland Lodge, F&AM, of Peekskill. In religious
sentiment he was an Episcopalian. After a life of usefulness and honor, he passed away.
Thomas H. Plumb married Lucy Pateman, of Nottinghamshire, England, and they were the parents of five children:
Elizabeth, married Edward Dunwoody, of Waterford, New York; Henry H., of further mention; Lucy, married Hultman Shires, of Troy;
Charles, deceased; Walter D., living in California.
Henry H. Plumb, eldest son and second child of Thomas H. and Lucy (Pateman) Plumb, was born in Peekskill, NY, 1 Jan 1857, and
there passed the first thirteen years of his life. He attended Peekskill public school until the removal of the family to Troy in 1870,
and there his school years were completed.
For forty years he has been a member of King Solomon [Primitive] Lodge No. 91, F&AM, and is a companion of Phoenix
Chapter, No. 133, Royal Arch Masons, in Troy, NY.
-----
17

George W. Robinson
http://query.nytimes.com/mem/archive-free/pdf?res=F70E11FF3C5A1A738DDDAB0994D8415B8385F0D3
12 Oct 1893 - © The New York Times 3 Mar 1897 - © The New York Times
18 Sep 1906 - © The New York Times
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GSln=Robertson&GSiman=1&GScnty=2037&GRid=24200010&
George W. Robinson, b 19 Oct 1838 NYC; d. 17 Sep 1906 Peekskill, NY; m1. Ella Hutchings [?] (1841-1885); m2. Kate M. Call
(1854-1907). All bur. Hillside Cemetery, Peekskill, NY.
Children:
Ellie Robertson (____ - 1877)*
Susie Robertson (____ - 1873)*
Minnie Robertson (____ - 1877)*
18

The New York Red Book, 1895. page 137.
http://books.google.com/books?id=0PpPAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA143&dq=%22George+W.+Robertson%22+%22peekskill%22&hl=en&ei
=NZbdTcTiCqjB0AHa0sHUDw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CDMQ6AEwAg#v=onepage&q=%22George%20
W.%20Robertson%22%20%22peekskill%22&f=false
GEORGE W. ROBERTSON (Republican) represents the Fifteenth Senate district, which comprises
the Twenty fourth ward of New York and the counties of Putnam and Westchester. Mr.
Robertson was born in New York city on October 19,1838; was educated at the Peekskill Military
Academy and the Charlottesville University. When the Rebellion broke out he became a
member of the 71st Regiment of New York State Volunteers. He was wounded at the battle of
Bull Run. In 1862 he was made a lieutenant. When he returned from the war he was elected
manager of the Cincinnati Elevator Company; he subsequently became a member of the firm of
Southard, Robertson & Co., which is engaged in the stove foundry business at Peekskill, which
has a New York office at Water street and Peck slip. Mr. Robertson entered political life in 1881,
when he was elected a member of the Assembly in General Husted's Assembly district in
Westchester County. Colonel Robertson is a strong supporter of the Grand Army of the
Republic. He received for Senator 15,557 votes, and a plurality over Alfred Henning Morris of
675 votes. He is chairman of the Committee on Public Building, a member of the Committee on
Cities, Commerce and Navigation and Prisons.
Senator Robertson in the session of 1894, presented a large number of bills concerning his Senate district, which, taking in part of
the city of New York and also rural counties, led hi to present a variety of city and rural measures. He introduced a bill providing for
the identification of registered votes in New York; a bill to convert the town of Sing Sing into a city; a bill to repeal the law which
authorizes the destruction of the City Hall of New York; a bill in regard to the disposition of stable manure in New York; a bill
prohibiting the exhibition of advertisements on the elevated railroads of New York; a bill providing for construction of new buildings
at Sing Sing prison; a bill abolishing the then Board of Park Commissioners of New York and substituting for them a Board of two
Republicans and two Democrats.
-----
http://www.dennisjaustin.com/familytree/individual.php?pid=I1893&ged=DWAustinAncestorsRelated Non Living.ged
George W. Sykes b. 31 Dec 1836 Franklin Co., MA; d. 30 Oct 1898 Peekskill, Westchester, NY; son of Solomon Sykes and Harriet
Nelson Austin; m. Tabitha Telle, b. 18 Nov 1837 NY; d. Aug 1895 Peekskill, Westchester, NY
-----
David W. Travis – There is some confusion as the below two records for David W. Travis of Peekskill, NY; one b. 14 Aug 1836
[whose tombstone notes is was a member of the 6th NY Heavy Artillery], His service record notes he was age 26 upon enlistment
on 20 Sep 1864 [which would give a birth year of ca 1828].
The other David W[iley] Travis was b. ca 1823/25 [age 42 in 1867]. This record clearly notes that this David W. Travis was a
member of Cortlandt Lodge No. 34.
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=37133413
David W. Travis b. 14 Aug 1837; d. 16 Jul 1914; m1. Catharine M. _____ (13 Sep 1827-27 Feb 1900); m2. Susan ____ (9 Feb
1838-10 May 1923). All bur. Hillside Cemetery, Peekskill, NY. Co. F, 6 N.Y. Heavy Art'y
TRAVIS, DAVID W. — age, 26 years. Enlisted 6 NY Heavy Artillery], 20 Sep 1864, at Albany; mustered in as private, Co. F, 20 Sep
1864, to serve one year; mustered out on individual muster-out roll, 3 July 1865, at Washington, D. C, as Daniel W.
19

Life Sketches of the State Officers, Senators, and Members of the Assembly of ...,” by Samuel R. Harlow, H. H. Boone, 1867. page
373.
http://books.google.com/books?id=T7AsAAAAIAAJ&pg=PA373&dq=%22David+W.+Travis%22+%22peekskill%22&hl=en&ei=vX_dT
a-VDnL0QGJ84XPDw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=5&ved=0CD0Q6AEwBA#v=onepage&q=%22David%20W.%20Travis%
22%20%22peekskill%22&f=false
DAVID W. TRAVIS.
MR. TRAVIS was originally a "Whig. Though not very ambitious for office, in 1853 he was nominated for the office of Assemblyman,
but, in consequence of the running of a third candidate, his Democratic opponent was elected by a small majority. During the
session of the Legislature of 1854, an act was passed authorizing the election of a Police Justice for the village of Peekskill. Mr.
TRAVIS was nominated for that office by the Whigs, and indorsed by the Americans, who had not, as yet, assumed the shape of a
distinct party. The result was his election by a flattering majority. Sympathizing with the Americans to a certain extent, he acted with
them, until their more mature operations as an independent organization. He then gave them a parting "grip," and returned to the
Whigs.
In the year 1855, he was a delegate from his district to the Whig Convention held at Syracuse, and was present at the formation of
the Republican party. He acted with a majority of the Whigs in joining the Republicans, and he has continued true to the
organization, in its successes and its defeats. Although the nomination for office was, at various times, offered to him, yet he
declined to be a candidate, though his election seemed certain, in case he should consent to run. Last summer, Westchester county
was re-districted, inasmuch as the census had shown some changes in its population; and, though it was thought that there would
be some political changes in consequence thereof, yet Mr. TRAVIS, who ran as candidate for Member of Assembly, was elected by
over six hundred majority. He is on the Committee on Commerce and Navigation.
He is forty-two years old, and is a native of Cortlandt, Westchester county, New York. His father was a farmer by occupation, and
was of English descent, and his mother was of German ancestry. He was the youngest of a large family. His youth was spent in
working on a form, and attending the district school during the winter, until he was sixteen years old. But a farmer's life had no very
attractive features for him, and, therefore, he very wisely decided to abandon it. It requires a
peculiar kind of pluck to face the freezing sleet of early spring, the 110° of July and August,
and the nipping frosts of fall; and if one has ever so misty visions of a life more congenial, of
course, it is better to "fold the tent and quietly steal away;" for the true key to success in any
occupation, is to have the heart in every effort attempted.
At the age of sixteen, Mr. TRAVIS attended the Peekskill Academy, and continued there as a
student, for about four years. He then had an inclination to attend the Military Academy at
West Point, but, owing to the objections urged by his parents, he abandoned the idea, and
commenced the study of law in the office of WILLIAM & T. NELSON, Esq'rs, able practitioners,
at Peekskill. He was admitted to practice as an attorney, in 1846, and as Solicitor in
Chancery, under the old Constitution, the winter following. He commenced practice at
Peekskill, in April, 1847; and, by hard efforts among old established lawyers, he has gathered
to himself a fine business. Whatever he has accomplished, he has wrought by unflinching
industry, conscious that toil will meet with due compensation.
Mr. TRAVIS has always been a zealous worker in the field of politics. He is almost invariably
present at the conventions of his party, and has a measure of influence in them which is
never disregarded by his fellow citizens. In campaigns and at the polls, he determinedly
works for the success of the ticket, and in the Legislature he is known as a keen-sighted
member. Mr. TRAVIS is a man of a great deal of nervous vitality, and throws all of his powers
into the accomplishment of a measure.
http://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/lccn/sn83030214/1903-01-12/ed-1/seq-3/ocr/
20

EIGHTIETH CELEBRATION. [New York Tribune article 12 Jan 1903]
David W. Travis Is an Octogenarian This Week — Political and Legal Career.
Peekskill. NY. Jan. 11 Special — David Wiley Travis on Tuesday will celebrate his eightieth birthday. He was born in 1823, in the
town of Cortlandt, the son of David E. and Alchey Travis. He attended the public and district schools until the age of sixteen, and
completed his education at the Peekskill Military Academy sixty years ago.
DAVID WILEY TRAVIS. Who celebrates his eightieth birthday . . . >
He began the study of law in the office of William Nelson and Thomas Nelson. In October. 1847. He was admitted to the bar. In
1854 he was chosen the first police justice of Peekskill, when the office was established, and served until 1861, when the office was
abolished. In 1878 and 1879 he was elected Supervisor of the town of Cortlandt. In 1866 he was elected from the TIM District of
Westchester County to the lower branch of the State legislature. In 1878 he was again elected to the Assembly, and re-elected in
1879. For a number of years he was one of the many commissioners of appraisal in the condemnation "proceedings of land along
the Croton water shed.
He is the oldest member of Cortlandt Lodge No. 34, F&AM. having joined on June 21, 1860. He is a member of the Westchester
County Bar Association, and a director for the last twenty years in the Westchester County National Bank. With his wife and son.
David Wiley. Jr.. he lives at the Eagle Hotel.
Westchester Lodge No. 46, While Plains, New York
Warrant: 7 May 1976
http://www.bronxmasons.com/about.htm
The first Lodge organized in what is now known as the Bronx appeared when a petition was presented to Grand Lodge on 2 Mar
1796 and a Warrant was ordered issued by Jacob Morton, D.G.M. and DeWitt Clinton, J.G.W. instituting Westchester Lodge, No.
46. The first meeting of that Lodge was held in the home of David Hustice in the Town of Westchester (now Westchester Square).
The Lodge's jurisdiction extended from Long Island Sound and the Connecticut line on the east; to the Hudson River on the west;
from the Harlem River on the south to the Putnam County line on the north. Stated meetings of the Lodge were those of the "first full
moon of the months of January, April, July, and October." To discourage non-attendance members were fined one to four shillings
for absence. On 24 Jun 1797, the Festival of St. John the Baptist was observed by the Lodge and Masonic Services were held in St.
Peter's Episcopal Church with the Reverend Brother John Ireland officiating.
On 27 Dec 1797, Westchester Lodge relocated to a more central point in Eastchester and alternately met there and in White Plains
until finally locating to New Rochelle, where it continues to work under the name of Huguenot Lodge, No. 46.
Grand Lodge Proceedings, 1886. Page 192.
http://books.google.com/books?id=eHFLAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA192&lpg=PA192&dq=%22westchester+lodge+No.+46%22&source=bl&
ots=8i8dovsY-0&sig=5sVpXKOGO-
JZwupbU5JzlvXTJqc&hl=en&ei=PBXbTdGvOuHL0QG40_z0Dw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CCgQ6AEwAg
#v=onepage&q=%22westchester%20lodge%20No.%2046%22&f=false
IX. In the matter of Huguenot Lodge, No. 448, F. & A. M., Huguenot Lodge presents the following petition: "To the M.\ W.\ Grand
Master and Officers and Members of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York. Huguenot Lodge,
No. 448, F. & A. M., respectfully petition to be restored to their original number 46, and beg leave to refer to a statement annexed to
their petition which, they believe, fully supports their petition."
They allege that Westchester Lodge, No. 46, was the first lodge in Westchester County, and was granted a charter in 1796, and first
met in the village of Westchester on the evening of June 2, 1796. In December, 1797, by permission of the Grand Lodge, it was
moved to East Chester, and in 1799 it was allowed to hold alternate meetings in East Chester and White Plains ; in 1802 the White
Plains meetings were discontinued. Until 1803, when Armour Lodge, No. 100, of Rye, was organized, the jurisdiction of Westchester
Lodge extended from Manhattan Island on the south to Sing Sing und the Connecticut line on the north, and frum Hudson River on
the west to Long Island Sound on the east. In 1815, the lodge was moved from East Chester to Now Rochelle, where it remained
until it disbanded in 1831. The lodge disposed of its hall and library which they owned, and the jewels, Bible and records were given
to Brother TROS. CARPENTER for safe-keeping, and it is supposed the charter was surrendered to the Grand Lodge. Iu 1854 an
application was made to the Grand Lodge for a warrant to organize another lodge in New Rochelle, which was granted and the new
lodge was called Westchester, No. 146, and the old jewels, Bible and records, etc., were delivered up. It remained under this name
until 1858, when it was found that there was a lodge by that name in Sing Sing, and a new warrant was issued and the lodge has
since been known as Huguenot, No. 148. There now appears to be another Hnguenot Lodge, No. 381, on Staten Island. Every
mason made by Westchester, No. 16, Westchester, No. 146, and Huguenot, No. 448, has been obligated on the same Bible, a
really venerable looking book and is now used for that purpose only. The jewels worn by the officers of Huguenot Lodge, No. 448,
are the old jewels of Westchester Lodge, No. 16, and are engraved as follows:
Your committee ask the adoption of the following resolution:
Resolved, That the petition of Huguenot Lodge be granted.
Appletons' annual cyclopaedia and register . . ., Volume 4; Volume 19, page 694.
http://books.google.com/books?id=mzkoAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA694&lpg=PA694&dq=%22westchester+lodge+No.+46%22&source=bl&
ots=13WJsh6nAb&sig=rJH1mYJD1o73zJxgvF0pt1Q8Yg&hl=en&ei=PBXbTdGvOuHL0QG40_z0Dw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=4&ved=0CCsQ6
AEwAw#v=onepage&q=%22westchester%20lodge%20No.%2046%22&f=false
William Cooper Mead, D. D., LL. D., born in Greenwich, CT, died 17 Jul [1880]. He received a systematic education, entered the
ministry in the Protestant Episcopal Church, and in 1836 became rector of St. Paul's Church, Norwalk, where he remained till his
21

death, a period of more than 43 years. He was a Freemason, and took great interest in the order. At different times he was Grand
Chaplain of the Grand Lodges of Connecticut and Pennsylvania, and of the Grand Chapter of Connecticut, he was made a Mason in
1824, in Westchester Lodge, No. 46, of White Plains, NY. He was elected an honorary member of St. John's Lodge, No. 6, of
Norwalk, in 1849, and was chaplain and trustee for many years. He was one of the four Episcopal clergymen in the United States
who have been rector of one parish for a period of forty years. The cane which he held at the time of his death on account of having
been longest in a parish of any rector in the State, went to the Rev. . . Yarrington of Greenwich, who has been rector there for
forty years. Dr. Mead received the degree of LL. D. from Trinity College. He died suddenly, soon after returning from a ride.
Dr. Matson Smith, a member of Westchester Lodge, No. 46, New Rochelle, held for many years the most prominent place among
the physicians of Westchester county. He served as Junior Grand Warden of the “City Grand Lodge” under John Wells, GM.
Huguenot Lodge No. 46, White Plains, New York
See also notes for Westchester Lodge No. 46 above and Huegenot Lodge No. 448 of New Rochelle below
http://www.whiteplainsmasoniclodge.org/History-of-White-Plains-Lodge.html
On 22 Dec 1799, Grand Lodge granted to Huguenot Lodge No. 46 a Dispensation allowing for alternate meetings in Eastchester
and White Plains, because of the "great distances" to be traveled by members;
Dear Sirs:
I have the pleasure to inform you that the Grand Lodge convened an extra last evening respecting the arrangement to take place
on account of the death of our illustrious Brother, George Washington. I took the opportunity of moving on your petition to hold your
Lodge alternately at Eastchester and White Plains, and have the pleasure to inform you that the prayer of the petition was granted
unanimously. It will be communicated to you officially by the earliest opportunity. Remember me to all of our friends and to your
good family.
Yours with esteem,
ABRAHAM SKINNER
The Lodge, accordingly, met at White Plains, at the house of Brother Joseph Hatfield every alternate meeting night. Official notice of
the death of General Washington was not received by the Lodge until 10 Feb 1800, when it was resolved to meet at White Plains on
the 22nd, to pay honor to the memory of him who had done so much for the cause of his country. Brother David Rogers was
requested to prepare and deliver an oration on that day at the Court House. Invitations were then forwarded to all the other Lodges,
and, on the day appointed, the combined Brethren and others met at the home of Captain Hatfield, and proceeded to the Court
House. The White Plains meetings were discontinued in 1802 and the Lodge held its meetings in Eastchester only. Solomon's
Lodge No. 196 was chartered and held its communications in White Plains until 1812, when it was removed to Tarrytown. From then
until 1852, there is no record of Masonry in White Plains.
http://www.newrochelledowntown.com/history/?id=4
The local chapter of the Fraternal Order of Masons was making a clear
statement when it constructed this imposing building at the turn of the 20th
century. Located in the heart of the community’s rapidly growing business
district, the structure was designed to be one of the largest in the downtown,
and the most monumental. The Huguenot Lodge No. 46, F&AM, was formed in
1888, but grew from the Westchester Lodge, F. & A.M., which was begun in
1796. The Huguenot Lodge members met in private homes until money was
raised to erect the downtown building, which was dedicated 19 Nov 1901.
The first and immediate tenant was the New Rochelle Library. Moving out of
their small quarters in the New Rochelle
Trust Company building at 40 Centre
Avenue (no longer standing), the trustees leased two floors of the new Masonic Temple, as it
was called. In addition to stacks of books, the Masonic building allowed the library to offer a
large reading room, a reference room and a special space for children’s books and programs.
As the community grew in leaps and bounds during this decade, so did the library needs of the
community. In 1910 the city joined many other municipalities across the country in requesting
a new library from Andrew Carnegie . Four years after New Rochelle’s application was
approved, the library moved out of the Masonic Temple and into its magnificent “first” (standalone)
library building on Main Street and Pintard Avenue.
In 1938 the Huguenot Lodge [No. 448], with 496 members, was one of three Mason Lodges (chapters) in New Rochelle. During
World War II the building was utilized for a unique and profound project initiated by the many nationally recognized New Rochelle
artists. Now referred to as the World War II Portraits Project , the endeavor ultimately captured the images of over 10,000 service
personnel.
About the architect: The architect of the Masonic Lodge, (now 451-453 Main Street) was George Kramer Thompson (1859 -
1935), a Dubuque, Iowa native who came to New York City in 1879 and studied under prominent New Yorker Frederick H. Withers.
Thompson was in private practice in the City from 1883 - 1916, including a partnership with Francis H. Kimball, d/b/a Thompson &
Kimball. Their commissions include the Manhattan Life Insurance Building (1892) , the Empire Building (1898) , the Standard Oil
Building, and the Trust Company of America Building .
22

About the architecture: The imposing Neo-Classical Revival-style building is a rectangular block form with a pedimented limestone
façade, with an Ionic portico set upon a raised basement of rusticated stone and trimmed with an oculus in the pediment. The
façade is divided into three bays: side elevation into five bays, separated by simple pilasters.
Of interest: One of the country’s foremost architectural critics panned this building in 1909 – and he did so in the April 1909 issue of
the Architectural Record, in an article entitled "Study of a New York Suburb, New Rochelle". Although the 13-page article was
written by “anonymous”, it was soon disclosed that Montgomery Schuyler was its author. Interestingly, he was a resident of the New
York Suburb, New Rochelle at the time, and for several years after.
Hiram Lodge No. 72, Mount Pleasant, New York
Petition: 26 May 1796
Warrant: 07 Aug 1798; signed by Robert R. Livingston, Grand Master; John Abrams, Grand Secretary.
Last Return: 30 Mar 1808
Surrendered: bet. 1817
Petition signed by:
Beekman, Gerard G. Jr.
Dickinson, Henry
Dyckman, Michael
Hyatt, Abraham
Jollie, Edward
Jones, Arthur
Mattocks, Robert
Miller, Seth
First Officers: Allen Royce, WM; Seth Miller, SW; Ezra Hunter, JW.
Roster, as compiled from papers extant:
Acker, Gilbert
Acker, Philip
Acker, Stephen
Baley, Devona
[Bailey, Devoe]
Banks, James
Beekman, Gerard G. Jr.
Bilyea, John
Blanchard, Parly
Brady, Jesse
Brown, Abraham
Buckhout, John
Carpenter, Levi
Covert, David
Crocker, Joseph
David, Isaac
Delavan, James
Delavan, Lewis
Dickinson, Henry
Doty, Isaac
Dutcher, Deliverance
Dyckman, Michael
Fell, John
Fisher, Benjamin
Fo[r]shay, James
Fo[r]shay, John
Frisbee, J.
Giffard, Roger
Graham, Joseph B.
Green, William
Haight, Joseph
Haywood, David
Holmes, Nathaniel
Hunter, Ezra
Hunter, John
Hyatt, Abraham
Royce, S. Allin
Scofield, Ebenezer
Ward, Mapes
Hyatt, Nathaniel
Johnson, Ira
Jollie, Edward
Jones, Arthur
Jones, William
Kinnicutt, John
Leggett, John
Marks, Michael
Martin, Gilbert
Mattocks, Robert
Mentross [Montross],
Gilbert
Miller, Benjamin J.
Miller, [Dr.] Seth
Oppie, John
Orser, Talmon [or Orsen]
Owens, Eugane Charles
Partelow, Seamor [sp?]
Requa, Isaac
Ridgway, Daniel
Romer, John
Royce, Allin
Royce, George
Schmidt, John William
Scofield, Ebenezer
Scofield, Joseph
Sherwood, Job
Smith, Samuel
Sutton, John P.
Thipp, Caleb
Thipp, Gilbert
Thipp, Thomas
Thompson, James
Tompkins, Daniel
Turner, Joshua
Tylor, Lewis
23

Valentline, Frederick
Van Cortland[t], Philip
Vestervelt, Cornelius
Ward, Moses
Ward, Samuel
Ward, William
Weeden, William
Williams, Robert
Yoe, Charles
Youngs, Samuel [init. 1801]
Youngs, John
Youngs, Samuel
http://wc.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?op=GET&db=pmm5&id=I395
Devoe Bailey b. 18 Mar 1751 North Salem, Westchester, NY; d. 6 OCT 1823 in Carmel, Putnam, NY; bur. Bailey Family Plot,
Putnam County, NY; son of Levi Bailey b. ca 1722 in Rye, Westchester, NY, and Jean (Jane) Gilchrist b: ca 1720 in Rye, NY; m.
Elizabeth Smith b. 1 May 1760 in Long Island, NY.
Children
1. Samuel Bailey b. ca 1780
2. Devoe Bailey b. ca 1781/82
3. Stephen Bailey b. 12 Jul 1783 in Putnam County, NY
4. Benjamin Bailey b. 24 May 1785 in Putnam County, NY
5. William Bailey b. 27 Nov 1786 in Putnam County, NY
6. Levi Bailey b. 09 Jun 1789 in New York
7. Horace Bailey b. 08 Jun 1790
8. Daniel Bailey b. 20 Jan 1792
9. Ira Bailey b. 26 Jan 1794 in Carmel, Putnam, NY
10. Isaac Bailey b. 26 Jan 1794 in Carmel, Putnam, NY
11. Hester Bailey b. 18 Oct 1795 in Carmel, Putnam, NY
12. Thomas Bailey b. 06 Jan 1799 in Carmel, Putnam, NY
-----
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=34765183
Gerard G. Beekman, Jr. b. 19 Sep 1746, NYC; d. 22 Jun 1822; bur. Old Van Cortlandtville Cemetery, Peekskill, NY; Son of Gerard
G.Beekman and Anne Van Horne; m. Cornelia Van Cortlandt, b. 2 Aug 1753; d. 14 Mar 1847; d/o Pierre Van Cortlandt (1721-1814)
and Joanna Livingston (1722-1822) [q.v.]
Children:
1. Pierre Cortlandt BEEKMAN
2. Dr. Stephen D. BEEKMAN m. Maria Clinton [6 Oct 1785 – 17 Apr 1829], d/o of George Clinton [26 Jul 1739 – 20 Apr
1812; 1st Governor of NY and 4th Vice President of the US; uncle of DeWitt Clinton; his Lt. Gov. was Pierre Van
Cortlandt, Sr.].
3. Gerard G. BEEKMAN b. 1774; m. Elizabeth Adams, b. 1785
4. Ann Beekman b: 27 May 1778 in Peekskilll; d. 7 Jan 1857; m. 11 May 1803 Captain Frederick de Peyster,
b. 10 Dec 1758; d. 26 Feb 1834, son of James Abraham De Peyster, b. 6 Feb 1726; d. 27 Jul 1799 in Jamaica, Long
Island, and Sarah Reade, b. 10 Aug 1724.
http://www.hudsonvalley.org/content/view/35/93/
The Beekman family was part of the great landed aristocracy of colonial New York. Through inter-marriage, the Beekmans acquired
alliances with the powerful Livingston and Van Cortlandt families. After the American Revolution, Gerard G. Beekman, Jr. was able
to purchase a large part of the Philipse estate, which has been preserved by Historic Hudson Valley as Philipsburg Manor. The
manuscript collection consists mainly of indentures, deeds and other legal documents pertaining mostly to the immediate family of
Gerard G. Beekman, Jr. and his son Stephen D. Beekman.
William Aitken's "Distinguished Families Descended from Silgelmus Beekman and Jan Thomasse Van Dyke" records they had only
one child, a daughter, Ann, who married Captain Frederick de Peyster. To the best of my knowledge, they also had four sons:
William, Gerard G., Pierre Van Cortlandt, and Stephen D.
http://www.mssdar.org/cbeekman/
Born in 1752, Cornelia Beekman was the daughter of Pierre Van Cortlandt and Joanna Livingston.
She grew up in their Croton, NY, manor house which is today on the National Historic Register.
Her father is a DAR Patriot and became the Lt. Governor of New York. At about age 17, Cordelia
married Gerard G. Beekman [Jr.] and they resided in the city of New York. They both became
ardent supporters of American freedom from the British. They moved to Peekskill, New York,
where they built a manor house. Here Cornelia resided throughout the Revolutionary War. Her
husband is also a DAR Patriot.
It was in the Beekman's Peekskill home that Gen. Patterson was quartered for a time. Gen.
George Washington visited her frequently and made her home his quarters while his troops were
stationed there. Because of its location, her manor was often ransacked by the British troops who
demanded food and supplies. Although she was frequently taunted and belittled by the British,
Cornelia Beekman maintained her dignity and devotion to the American cause.
She is remembered for her courage, for she refused to leave her home and stood for the honor of
her family and country throughout the perilous years of the Revolutionary War. In 1785, the
Beekman family removed to Tarrytown where they lived in the manor house know as Castle
Philipse. Mr. Beekman died in 1822 and Cornelia on March 14, 1847 at the age of 95. She was
revered by her community and remained alert and vibrant until her death.
24

http://www.americanrevolution.org/women/women31.html
Cornelia [Van Cortlandt] Beekman
A memoir of the long and eventful life of Mrs. Beekman, describing scenes in which those connected with her were prominent
actors, would form a valuable contribution to American history. But it is not possible, at this distant day, without the materials
afforded by letters or contemporaneous details, to give an adequate idea of the influence she exercised. There are many who retain
a deep impression of her talents and noble qualities; but no record has preserved the memory of what she did for America, and her
character can be but imperfectly illustrated by the anecdotes remembered by those who knew her most intimately. The active part
she sustained in the contest, her trials and the spirit exhibited under them, her claims for substantial service to the gratitude of her
country, and a name in its annals, cannot now be appreciated as they deserve. But it may be seen that hers was no ordinary
character, that she was a true patriot, and that her part must have been a very important one in directing the judgment and
movements of others.
Her family was one of distinction, from which numerous branches have proceeded. The
ancestor, Oloff Stevenson Van Cortlandt, died in this country about 1683, leaving seven
children; and in 1685, his eldest son obtained from Governor Dongan a patent for large
tracts of land purchased from the Indians in Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess
Counties. For many years preceding the Revolution, the family resided in the Cortlandt
manor house, an old-fashioned stone mansion situated upon the banks of the Croton
River. It was here that Cornelia, the second daughter of Pierre Van Cortlandt and Joanna
Livingston, was born in 1752. Her father, who was Lieutenant Governor of the State of
New York under George Clinton, from 1777 to 1795, was distinguished for his zealous
maintenance of American rights. From him she imbibed the principles to which, in after
life, she was so ardently devoted.
The childhood and youth of Cornelia passed in peace and happiness in her pleasant
home. On her marriage, about the age of seventeen, with Gerard G. Beekman, she
removed to the city of New York, where her residence was in the street which bears her
name. Her husband was in mind, education, and character, worthy of her choice. Not
many years of her married life had passed, when the storm of war burst upon the land,
and, taught to share in aspirations for freedom, she entered into the feelings of the
people with all the warmth of her generous nature. She often spoke with enthusiasm of
an imposing ceremonial procession she witnessed, of the mechanics of the city, who
brought their tools and deposited them in a large coffin made for the purpose - marched
to the solemn music of a funeral dirge, and buried the coffin in Potter's Field; returning to
present themselves, each with musket in hand, in readiness for military service.
Finding a residence in New York not agreeable in the state of popular excitement, she returned with her husband and family to the
home of her childhood at Croton, till the Peekskill Manor House could be completed. This was a large brick building situated on a flat
about two miles north of Peekskill, at the foot of Regular Hill, the place of encampment for the American army. The top of Anthony's
Nose can be seen from its rear. Here she resided during the war, marked out as an object of aggression and insult by the royalists,
on account of the part taken by her relatives and friends, and her own ardent attachment to the American cause. At intervals of the
struggle, when portions of the British army were ranging through Westchester, she was particularly exposed to their injuries. But her
high spirit and strong will contributed to her safety, and supported her through many scenes of trial. Only once was she prevailed
upon to leave her residence, being persuaded by her brother, Colonel Philip Van Cortlandt, to retire with her family some miles back
in the country for safety from a scouting party on their way from Verplanck's Point. She yielded to the counsel, contrary to her own
judgment and wishes; and after being absent a day and night, not hearing of any depredations committed, returned to the manor
house. She found it a scene of desolation! Not an article of furniture was left, except a bedstead; a single glass bottle was the only
drinking utensil; and one ham was all that remained of the provisions, having, by good fortune, been hung in an obscure part of the
cellar. This disaster, and the inconveniences to which she was obliged to submit in consequence, were borne with fortitude, and
even formed a subject of merriment. Soon after, she was called upon by two of the American officers - Putnam and Webb - who
asked how she had fared, not supposing she had been visited with annoyance, and were much surprised at her description of the
state of the house on her return. The General promised, if she would be satisfied with army conveniences, to send her the next day
a complete outfit to recommence housekeeping. On the morrow a horseman arrived, carrying a bag on either side, filled with all
kinds of woodenware - a welcome and useful present, for such things were not at that time easy to be obtained. Some of these
articles were still in the house at the time of Mrs. Beekman's decease.
The leading officers of the American army were often received and entertained at her hospitable mansion. General Patterson was at
one time quartered there; and the room is still called "Washington's," in which that beloved Chief was accustomed to repose. He
visited her frequently, their acquaintance being of long standing, and while his troops were stationed in the neighborhood, made her
house his quarters. The chairs used by his aids as beds are still in the possession of her descendants. Her hospitality was not
limited to persons of distinction; she was at all times ready to aid the distressed, and administer to the necessities of those who
needed attention. Nor were her acts of humanity and benevolence confined to such as were friendly to the cause in which her
warmest feelings were enlisted, many in the enemy's ranks experiencing her kindness, and that in return for grievance and outrage.
Of this she had more than her share, and sometimes the most daring robberies were committed before her eyes. On one occasion
the favorite saddle-horse which she always rode was driven off with the others by marauders. The next day Colonel Bayard,
mounted upon the prize, stopping at the gate, Mr. Beekman claimed the animal as belonging to his wife, and demanded that it
should be restored. The insolent reply was, that he must hereafter look upon his property as British artillery horses; and the officer
added, as he rode away, "I am going now to burn down your rebel father's paper mill! "
25

At another time, in broad day, and in sight of the family, a horse was brought up with baskets fastened on either side, and a
deliberate ransacking of the poultry yard commenced. The baskets were presently filled with the fowls, and the turkeygobbler, a
noisy patriarch, was placed astride the horse, the bridle being thrown over his head. His uneasiness when the whip was used, -
testified by clamorous complaints, made the whole scene so amusing that the depredators were allowed to depart without a word of
remonstrance. One day when the British were in the neighborhood, a soldier entered the house, and walked unceremoniously
towards the closet. Mrs. Beekman asked what he wanted; "Some brandy;" was his reply. When she reproved him for the intrusion,
he presented his bayonet at her breast, and calling her a rebel, with many harsh epithets, swore he would kill her on the spot.
Though alone in the house, except an old black servant, she felt no alarm at the threats of the cowardly assailant; but told him she
would call her husband, and send information to his officer of his conduct. Her resolution triumphed over his audacity; for seeing that
she showed no fear, he was not long in obeying her command to leave the house. Upon another occasion she was writing a letter to
her father when, looking out, she saw the enemy approaching. There was only time to secrete the paper behind the frame-work of
the mantel-piece; where it was discovered when the house was repaired after the war.
The story of Mrs. Beekman's contemptuous repulse of the enemy under Bayard and Fanning is related by herself, in a letter written
in 1777. A party of royalists, commanded by those two colonels, paid a visit to her house, demeaning themselves with the arrogance
and insolence she was accustomed to witness. One of them insultingly said to her: "Are you not the daughter of that old rebel, Pierre
Van Cortlandt ?" She replied with dignity: "I am the daughter of Pierre Van Cortlandt - but it becomes not such as you to call my
father a rebel !" The tory raised his musket, when she, with perfect calmness, reproved him for his insolence and bade him begone.
He finally turned away abashed.
The persecutors of Mrs. Beekman were sometimes disappointed in their plundering expeditions. One day the miller came to her with
the news that the enemy had been taking a dozen barrels of flour from the mill. "But when they arrive at the Point," he added, they
will find their cakes not quite so good as they expect; as they have taken the lime provided for finishing the walls, and left us the
flour." Often, however, the depredators left nothing for those who came after them.
One morning a captain serving in the British army rode up to the house, and asked for Mrs. Beekman. When she appeared, he told
her he was much in want of something to eat. She left the room, and soon returning, brought a loaf of bread and a knife. This, she
assured him, was all she had in the house, the soldiers of his army having taken away every thing else. "But I will divide this," she
said: "you shall have one-half, and I will keep the other for my family." This magnanimity so struck the officer, that he thanked her
cordially, and requested her to let him know if in future any of his men ventured to annoy her, promising that the offence should not
be repeated. It is not known that this promise was of any avail.
In one instance the firmness and prudence displayed by Mrs. Beekman were of essential service. John Webb, familiarly known as
"Lieutenant Jack," who occasionally served as an acting aid in the staff of the Commander-in- chief, was much at her house, as well
as the other officers, during the operations of the army on the banks of the Hudson. On one occasion, passing through Peekskill, he
rode up and requested her to oblige him by taking charge of his valise, which contained his new suit of uniform and a quantity of
gold. He added, "I will send for it whenever I want it; but do not deliver it without a written order from me or brother Sam." He threw
in the valise at the door, from his horse, and rode on to the tavern at Peekskill, where he stopped to dine. A fortnight or so after his
departure, Mrs. Beekman saw an acquaintance - Smith - whose fidelity to the whig cause had been suspected, ride rapidly up to the
house. She heard him ask her husband for "Lieutenant Jack's" valise, Which he directed a servant to bring and hand to Smith. Mrs.
Beekman called out to ask if the messenger had a written order from either of the brothers. Smith replied that he had no written
order, the officer having had no time to write one; but added: "You know me very well, Mrs. Beekman; and when I assure you that
Lieutenant Jack sent me for the valise, you will not refuse to deliver it to me, as he is greatly in want of his uniform." Mrs. Beekman
often said she had an instinctive antipathy to Smith, and, by an intuition for which it is difficult to account, felt convinced that he had
not been authorized to call for the article she had in trust. She answered: "I do know you very well - too well to give you up the valise
without a written order from the owner or the colonel." Smith was angry at her doubts, and appealed to her husband, urging that the
fact of his knowing the valise was there, and that it contained Lieutenant Jack's uniform, should be sufficient evidence that he came
by authority; but his representations had no effect upon her resolution. Although even her husband was displeased at this treatment
of the messenger, she remained firm in her denial, and the disappointed horseman rode away as rapidly as he came. The result
proved that he had no authority to make the application; and it was subsequently ascertained that at the very time of this attempt
Major Andrè was in Smith's house. How he knew that the uniform had been left at Mrs. Beekman's was a matter of uncertainty; but
another account of the incident-given by the accomplished lady who furnished these anecdotes of Mrs. Beekman, states that
Lieutenant Webb, dining at the tavern the same day, had mentioned that she had taken charge of his valise, and what were its
contents. He thanked Mrs. Beekman, on his return, for the prudence that had saved his property, and had also prevented an
occurrence which might have caused a train of disasters. He and Major Andrè were of the same stature and form; "and beyond all
doubt," says one who heard the particulars from the parties interested, "had Smith obtained possession of the uniform, Andrè would
have made his escape through the American lines." The experience that teaches in every page of the world's history what vast
results depend on things apparently trivial, favors the supposition, in dwelling on this simple incident, that under the Providence that
disposes all human events, the fate of a nation may here have been suspended upon a woman's judgment.
Many of Mrs. Beekman's letters written during the war breathe the most ardent spirit of patriotism. The wrongs she was compelled to
suffer in person, and the aggressions she witnessed on every side, roused her just indignation; and her feelings were expressed in
severe reproaches against the enemy, and in frequent prayers for the success of the American arms. But although surrounded by
peril and disaster, she would not consent to leave her home; her zeal for the honor of her family and her country inspiring her with a
courage that never faltered, and causing her to disregard the evils she had so continually to bear.
Years rolled on, and peace came at last to smile upon those who had shed their blood, or sacrificed their possessions for the
achievement of national independence. The lands in the manor of Philipsburgh having become vested in the State of New York by
the attainder of Frederick Philipse, were parcelled out and sold; and Mr. Beekman purchased the tract in the vicinity of Tarrytown, on
which the old manor-house is situated. To this he removed with his family in 1785. Historical recollections, and the classic creations
of genius, combine to shed a romance and a glory around this spot. The manorhouse - Castle Philipse - the ancient residence of the
lords of Philipsburgh - was strongly fortified in the early days of the colony, being built for defence against the Indians. The
26

embrasures or portholes now form the cellar windows. Rodolphus Philipse made additions to this fort to render it suitable for a place
of residence. It faces the east, and looks upon the old Dutch church, which stands at a little distance, with its time-honored walls and
antique belfry - a fit memorial of the past. This church was built about 1699 by Frederick Philipse and Catharina Van Cortlandt his
wife, who, according to tradition, was in the habit of riding up from the city of New York on horseback, upon moonlight nights
mounted on a pillion behind her brother, Jacobus Van Cortlandt, for the purpose of superintending its erection. It was struck by
lightning some years since, and was in part rebuilt, with modern improvements. Many readers will remember the description of this
church in the "Legend of Sleepy Hollow," with the wide woody dell beside it, and the bridge over the stream shaded by overhanging
trees; for it was there that the Yankee pedagogue Ichabod Crane met with the adventure so renowned in story. The ravine on the
other side of the hill forms the dreamy region of Sleepy Hollow. This locality bore a reputation more than equivocal - less, however,
on account of its haunting goblins than its human inhabitants; and often did our heroine express her regret and indignation that Mr.
Irving's description had given the name to a spot so near her own residence. The Pocanteco - or Mill river - wanders hereabouts in a
region of romantic beauty; winding through dark woodlands, or grassy meadows, or stealing along beneath rugged heights,
replenished by a thousand crystal rills that glide murmuring down to mingle with the stream. The venerable manor-house is seen to
advantage from the bridge, the trees intercepting the view in other directions. The stately trees that surrounded a silver sheet of
water before the door have been felled, and the old mill with its moss-covered roof, where in its balmy days so many bushels of
grain were ground free of toll for the neighboring poor, exhibits tokens of decay. All is, however, in mellow keeping with the
surrounding scenery. A picturesque view is presented from the windows of the manor-house, of the stream flowing in its serpentine
windings to lose itself in the bosom of the majestic Hudson.
It was here that Mrs. Beekman resided to the day of her death, enjoying life among the friends she loved, and contributing to the
improvement and happiness of those who had the advantage of her society. She was one of the company who welcomed the arrival
of La Fayette, and conversed with the veteran general of times gone by. Mr. Beekman died in 1822, at the age of seventy-six; and
on the 14th of March, 1847, in her ninety-fifth year, did she too "like tired breezes fall asleep." The day on which her remains were
borne to the family burial ground is described by one who was present as not soon to be forgotten. At an early hour the inhabitants
for miles around began to assemble, until the crowd became so great, that as far as the view extended, the space seemed alive with
carriages, and persons on foot and on horseback. After the funeral services, "the coffin was placed in the hall, and not a dry eye
beheld the loved relics. Domestics who had grown gray in her service sobbed to part with their kind mistress; and when the hoaryheaded
pall-bearers had placed the coffin in the sable hearse, before which were two milk white horses with black trappings, the
solemn silence was broken by the tolling of the old church bell, and one sentiment of grief seemed to pervade the assemblage.
Mrs. Beekman is described as an accomplished lady of the old school. She was remarkable for force of will, resolution, and a lofty
sense of honor. Steadfast in her principles, she had a mind of uncommon vigor, and a heart alive to all kindly and noble feelings. In
the prime of life she possessed a great share of personal beauty, while her manners were courteous, dignified and refined. Her
conversation, brilliant and interesting, was enlivened by stores of anecdote supplied by a memory unusually retentive, and many
were the thrilling tales of the olden time heard from her lips. Her sight failed during the last three or four years; but her mental
faculties continued clear and unimpaired in strength to the close of her almost century of existence. She could dwell with minuteness
of detail on the scenes her childhood had witnessed, while the realities she described were fading traditions to those who listened.
Thus was she a faithful type of a past generation, on few of which any can look again.
The energy of mind which had characterized her through life, was evinced on her death-bed. With her usual disinterestedness, she
refused to summon those among her nearest relatives whose age and infirmities rendered their separation inevitable, to behold the
progress of disease they could not alleviate. Calmly and quietly, bearing much suffering, but disturbed by no apprehension, she
awaited, with her accustomed fortitude, the coming of that last enemy, whose nearer and yet nearer approach she announced
unshrinkingly to those about her. When it was necessary to affix her signature to an important paper, and being supposed too weak
to write, she was told that her mark would be sufficient, she immediately asked to be raised, called for a pen, and placing her left
hand on the pulse of her right, wrote her name as distinctly as ever. It was the last act of her life. Literally counting, it is said, the
failing beats of her pulse, she " looked death in the face with the same high resolve and strong will with which she had been wont, in
her life-time, to encounter less powerful enemies." It was the strength of Christian faith, which thus gave her victory over the king of
terrors.
Of her brothers and sisters, only Mrs. Van Rensselaer and General Pierre Van Cortlandt survived her. The latter died recently at
Peekskill. Her daughter, Mrs. De Peyster, resides in New York; and her son, Dr. S. D. Beekman, at Tarrytown on a part of the old
place.
----http://wc.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?op=GET&db=10154&id=I0175
Jesse Brady b. 13 Jan 1762 Westchester Co, NY; d. there 7 May 1825; son of Simeon BRADY b. 13 Sep 1737 and Mary
BRUNDAGE b. 23 Apr 1743; m. Jemima HOYT b. 22 Apr 1763. Tavern keeper.
Children:
1. John BRADY b. 09 Feb 1783
2. Rhoda BRADY b. 20 Aug 1784
3. Loretta BRADY b. 09 Dec 1786
4. Tamer BRADY b. 21 Nov 1788 in Westchester Co., NY
5. Joanna BRADY b. 07 Sep 1790
6. Catherine BRADY b. 19 Apr 1792
7. Elijah N. BRADY b. 23 Mar 1794
8. Stephen BRADY b. 21 Apr 1796 in Westchester Co., NY
9. Huldah BRADY b. 05 Mar 1799
10. Isaac D. BRADY b. 05 Jan 1800 in Bedford, Westchester, NY
11. Mariah D. BRADY b. 30 Apr 1802
12. Isreal N. BRADY b. 27 Sep 1804
27

-----
“History and genealogy of the Carpenter family in America: . . .,” by Daniel Hoogland Carpenter, page 161.
http://books.google.com/books?id=Qzo5AAAAMAAJ&pg=PA161&lpg=PA161&dq=%22levi+carpenter%22+%22westchester%22&so
urce=bl&ots=mmQ_ED7Iyb&sig=dxBJ2O2tUFIKXomB00FlIh0shM&hl=en&ei=8eXgTaGVCajj0QHZyIiTBw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CDEQ6AEwAg#v=onepage&q=
%22levi%20carpenter%22%20%22westchester%22&f=false
Levi Carpenter, b. 21 Oct 1774 at Somers, Westchester, NY; d. 4 Dec 1852, son of Daniel Carpenter. He was a farmer and
wheelwright. All his life was spent in his native town. He had a special adaptiveness for devising ingenious farming implements, and
several times visited Washington in the interest of his patents. Probably the best known of these was the " L. C." ploughshare, which
for many years was in popular demand. His wife was Fanny [Frances or Phana] Sutton, b. 20 Aug 1776; d. 23 Dec 1865 d/o John
Pell Sutton. They were members of the Friends' Society, and highly respected in the community.
Children.
i. Thomas Daniel b. ca 1797 St John, Queens, New Brunswick, Canada; d. 1867, Canton, NY.
ii. Winifred Sutton b. 20 Jan 1800; d. 08 Apr 1884, Peekskill; m. William Carpenter.
iii. Bailey, b. ca 1802.
iv. Emeline, b. 08 Jul 1803; d. 11 Jan 1890, Yorktown, NY; m. John Pugsley, and had four children.
v. Pell Sutton, b. ca 1806; d. 1854 Montgomery, AL; Went to New Orleans about 1833.
vi. Caroline, b. 19 Aug 1807, d. 26 Dec 1842; married Samuel Tompkins, b. 31 Aug 1804; d. 9 Apr 1854.
vii. Pamelia, b. 07 Feb 1810; d. 18 Aug 1877. Twin; m. David Mallett
viii. Cornelia, b. 07 Feb 1810. d. 16 May 1862. Twin; m. Eaton Kipp
ix. Peter Rowe, b. 23 Aug 1814, Yorktown, NY; d. 27 Sep 1896, Somers, NY
x. Esther, b. ca 1816. Not married.
-----
Doty-Doten family in America: descendants of Edward Doty, page 308.
http://books.google.com/books?id=PR9KAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA510&lpg=PA510&dq=%22Isaac+Doty%22+%22westchester%22&sour
ce=bl&ots=79BIj1A3pC&sig=16R45L1sAhO4oHI8G8obRJAvaks&hl=en&ei=cfbgTdCzAYLN0AGlh6iyBw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=
result&resnum=1&ved=0CBoQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=%22Isaac%20Doty%22%20%22westchester%22&f=false
poss. Isaac Doty, son Azariah Doty, b. New York City, 1761. He m. prob. Westchester Co., NY,
Elizabeth Hammond. He d. White Plains, NY. He entered the Revolutionary army at a very early
age as a drummer boy, but later joined the artillery branch of the service. In 1781 he is said to have
commanded an artillery company on Staten Island, which he took across upon the ice to Amboy on
the opposite New Jersey shore. In the records of Cayuga Co., NY, at Auburn, appears a certificate
dated June 9, 1783. from General Washington, certifying that Isaac Doty, a gunner in the Second or
New York Artillery Regiment, having faithfully served the United States from the 20th of February,
1779, until the present period, is discharged. Also, a certificate from Colonel John Lamb of the New
York Artillery Regiment, that Isaac Doty has been honored with the badge of military merit for four
years faithful service.
For this service Isaac Doty received from the State of New York certain lands in Cayuga County, NY, which he sold March 2, 1793,
to David Abeel, mariner, of New York City. Captain John Doughty, who was Captain of an artillery company in same regiment, and
also received lauds in Cayuga County, NY, may have been related to Isaac Doty.
In the records of the State of New Jersey he is credited with services as follows: Private in Second Company, Second Battalion,
Second Establishment, New Jersey Continental line; served in the campaign in western Pennsylvania against the Six Nations, May
to November, 1779, was transferred to First Company, Captain Nathaniel Bowman, Second Regiment: served in the Virginia
campaign, took part in the battle of Yorktown and was present at the surrender of Lord Cornwallis, October 19, 1781, and served to
the close of the war.
After the close of the war Isaac Doty returned to New York City and engaged in foreign trade that took him out of the country more
or less, but about 1800 he removed to White Plains, NY, where he afterward lived. He was quite prominent in the county in public
affairs, and in 1823 was appointed Under Sheriff of Westchester County.
Children:
i. NANCY, b. prob. New York City, 1793; m. John A. Mildeburger. She d. there Oct 1869, aged 76 years.
ii. SAMUEL, b. New York City, 1796; not m.; d. 1826. Was a mariner and captain of a vessel in one of the packet lines of ships
owned by the firm of Howland and Aspinwall of New York.
iii. ELIZA, m. Abram D Stevens of Westchester Co., NY.
iv. ELLEN, m. Wilson G. Hunt, merchant and banker of New York City. She d. there; bur. Greenwood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY.
v. FANNY, m. William Gale. lived New York City: had 7 ch.
vi. GEORGE WASHINGTON, b. White Plains, NY, 1809.
vii. EMMA, b. White Plains; m. Richard Devan of Baltimore, Md. No ch.
viii. MARIA, b. White Plains; m. John Kenyon of New York City.
ix. JANE, b. White Plains; d. infancy.
x. EDWIN HAMMOND, b. White Plains, 1822.
-----
“Souvenir of the revolutionary soldiers' monument dedication, at Tarrytown, New York,” by Tarrytown Monument Committee,
Marcius Denison Raymond, 1894. page 136.
http://books.google.com/books?id=nktGAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA99&lpg=PA99&dq=%22Deliverance+dutcher%22&source=bl&ots=0dG3
W1addK&sig=NG4eFxXwCu0D6zN-uG5U1GuoYhE&hl=en&ei=baHfTdHrI42-
28

tgeLo6n7CQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=2&ved=0CCAQ6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q=%22Deliverance%20dutcher%22&
f=false
Deliverance Dutcher, son of Capt. William Dutcher, lived on the east end of the old Dutcher farm on the road to Greenburgh. He
married and had a large family of children. Deliverance Dutcher died 7 Nov 1823, in his 41st year. Cathrina Bancker his widow, born
14 Jan 1785, died 10 Jul 1875.
-----
Michael Dyckman
http://wc.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?op=REG&db=wldec01&id=I5518
William DYCKMAN (Jannetje KIERSEN 6 , Gerrittie Van DALSEN 5 , Grietje Theunis CRAY 4 , Theunis CRAY 3 , Theunis Gerritsen
CRAEY 2 , Garret DE CROY 1 ) b. 23 Aug 1720; m. Mary TURNER, b. 4 Feb 1728; d. 14 Feb 1802. d/o Michael TURNER
Children:
i. Jacobus DYCKMAN b. 18 Sep 1748; d. 20 Aug 1832; m. Hannah BROWN, d. 20 Aug 1814.
ii. Mary DYCKMAN b. 02 Jun 1752; d. 23 Feb 1826; m. Jacob VERMILYEA 15 Jun 1773.
iii. Abraham "Brom" DYCKMAN b. 25 Aug 1754; d. 9 Mar 1782 in Mt. Vernon, NY, unmarried.
iv. Michael DYCKMAN b. 09 AUG 1756; d. Jan 1808; m. Sarah OAKLEY.
v. William DYCKMAN b. 09 Dec 1762; m. Maria SMITH 23 Feb 1786.
vi. Jemima DYCKMAN b. 25 Feb 1765; m. Evert BROWN.
vii. Charity DYCKMAN b. 18 MAY 1770; m. Benjamin LENT.
http://notorc.blogspot.com/2010/08/all-brothers-were-valiant-one-mans.html
Michael, third son of William Dyckman, was named for his maternal grandfather, Michael Tourneur. Joining the militia with his
brother Abraham and cousin John Odell, he later served with them in the Westchester Guides. He remained with the Guides until
1780, when he was appointed a Muster Master. Muster Masters were recruited from reliable militiamen. Given a lieutenant's
commission, his task was to enroll recruits (Levies) selected by their militia regiment colonels for the regular forces. Muster Masters
reported the strengths of each regiment directly to Governor George Clinton.
A letter Michael wrote from Fishkill to his friend John Pine, still with the Westchester Guides, would delight proponents of simplified
spelling: "I hare that our boys has bin down and taken sevin horsis," he wrote. (By order of General Washington, Guides were
permitted to keep the property taken or its equivalent in cash.) In this letter he also speculated on his chances of being "sculped" by
Indians raiding American lines.
In another letter to young Pine from Albany two weeks later, Michael wrote: "I have met with an Irish twist I have lost almost all my
close stole from me in Albany however I have had the good luck to get some lining for shurts I should be glad if you could get me a
grate coat and send it up with Mr. Lion to Mr. Simons in Albany whar I shal have an opertunity to get it at any time
"I am now staitioned at Schohary midel fort whare the Indians are skulkin round dayly a few days ago they tuck of a hole family
within one mile of the fort however thare was a party of our men salied out and we tuck all the prisoners
"John Odell has bin to fort Stanwix but he has returned to Stone Roby [Stone Arabia, a village burnt by the British] whare he will
meat with Capt Williams I have got orders to march for the same place whare whe shall be stasioned for this sommar inles times
should altar
"Schohary whas a fine place thare is twenty or thirty fine dutch girls in the fort every night and that was not the best of all yet we had
a damd fine Commasary with rum and provisions plenty
"my complements to all friends I remain your friend
Michael Dyckman"
His rough letter demonstrates that phonetic spelling was probably common at that time, even among those with some degree of
education.
After serving with the Levies, Michael returned to the Guides. In July of 1781 he was assigned, with John Oakley and John Pine, as
guides to the French army that had just marched to Westchester County from Newport, Rhode Island. It was Washington's intention
to retake New York City in a surprise assault with the assistance of the French.
The Comte de Rochambeau's force of four infantry regiments, an artillery battalion and the Duc de Lauzun's 600-man legion of
horse and foot soldiers reached Dobbs Ferry. Instead of attacking the city, Washington decided to march secretly south with
Rochambeau's force to Yorktown in Virginia, where British Lord Cornwallis was bottled up behind his fortifications. After
accompanying the French across the Hudson, the three young men received a certificate certifying that "Ockly, Pine et Dickman,
Guides de l'Armée Américaine" conducted themselves very well while attached to the French Army.
Michael Dyckman next rejoined the Westchester Guides and accompanied his brother Abraham on the expedition against De
Lancey's headquarters in Morrisania. After the war, he became a farmer in Cortlandtown and married Sarah Oakley about 1795.
The 1800 census lists him as head of a family of one male, 36-45 (himself), one male, 16-26; one female, 26-45 (his wife); two
females under 10 (his daughters Sarah and Maria); and six slaves. He died in 1808 at the age of 52.
Despite Michael Dyckman's deficiencies in accepted orthography and punctuation, it is interesting to note that his grandson John
Reuben Thompson later served as literary editor of William Cullen Bryant's New York Evening Post.
Lieut. Abraham Dyckman, popularly called " Brom '' Dyckman, [a brother of Michael Dyckman] though not a resident of this Manor,
performed such important service here as one of the Westchester Guides, all through the Revolution, at last yielding up his life for
29

the cause, that he deserves more than a passing tribute at our hands. He was a son of Wm. Dyckman, of Kingsbridge, and was own
cousin to Col. John Odell, who was so closely associated with him during the Revolution. He is described by one who knew him as
"a broad shouldered, thick-set, athletic man." He was mortally wounded in an expedition to Morrisania, March 4, 1782, but was
brought off the field on his horse, his brother Michael, who was also a Patriot Guide, supporting him. He died on the 9th of March,
and was buried at Crum pond with military honors. At the time of his death he is said to have been engaged to be married to a sister
of Cornelius Oakley, another of the Westchester Guides. The kindred of the brave Lieut. Abraham Dyckman should see to it that a
suitable monument is erected at his unmarked grave.
http://books.google.com/books?id=XYZPAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA108&dq=%22Michael+Dyckman%22+%22westchester%22&hl=en&ei=
r9PgTe_uOYTLgQf0qKimBg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=6&ved=0CEQQ6AEwBQ#v=onepage&q=%22Michael%20D
yckman%22%20%22westchester%22&f=false page 107.
The County of Westchester contributed largely to the American cause. Versed in every hidden path of the region, the Westchester
guides were of invaluable service to Washington and his troops. The foremost of these patriotic-spirited guides were Abraham and
Michael Dyckman, whose old homestead at King's Bridge Road (Broadway) and Hawthorne Street, rebuilt at the close of the
Revolution, is still pointed out as the only remaining Dutch farmhouse on the road.
In May 1780, Michael Dyckman acted as guide to Captain Cushing of the Massachusetts Line in his attack upon De Lancey's
Corps. The Americans captured more than forty prisoners.
Michael Dyckman figured in an exploit on 26 Mar 1782, when, with thirteen volunteer horsemen he made an excursion to
Morrisania, and took five of De Lancey's corps and five horses. On their return they were pursued by a party of the enemy's horse,
but when the British came near, the gallant Westchester Volunteers faced right about, charged vigorously, took one man prisoner
with his horse, and put the rest to flight. The enemy again appeared on the old Eastchester Road but dared not renew the attack.
Abraham Dyckman was mortally wounded on 4 Mar 1782, while piloting a body of volunteer horse under Captain Hunnewell (after
whom Honeywell Avenue in West Farms was subsequently named). The Americans made the attack on the cantonment of De
Lancey's corps just before sunrise, taking the enemy completely by surprise, killing and wounding many, and capturing twenty
prisoners. De Lancey himself would perhaps have been taken prisoner had not the British loyalists fired the alarm guns and thus
caused the Americans to retire. The enemy quickly started in pursuit but soon fell into an ambuscade set by Major Woodbridge, who
with a party of light infantry had accompanied Captain Hunnewell.
The State of New York has erected a granite monument at Yorktown in memory of the patriotic services of Abraham Dyckman.
-----
John Foshay [Forshay, Fosie, &c]
http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:L4LHve69NFAJ:familytreemaker.genealogy.com/users/s/m/i/Sheryl-M-
Smith/GENE14-0009.html+%22foshay%22+%22phillipsburg%22&cd=1&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=us&source=www.google.com
http://familytreemaker.genealogy.com/users/j/u/s/Deby-Von-wert-Justice/GENE2-0010.html
Anitije Van Wart (Abraham 3 , Gerrit Jochemse 2 , Jochem 1 Wouterszen) b. 19 Oct 1748 in Phillipsburg, Westchester, NY; d. there 17
May 1829; m. 12 Oct 1767 in Tarrytown, Westchester, NY, John Foshay, b. ca 1745 in Phillipsburg, NY, son of William Foshay
and Jane Barnes. Both bur. in Sleepy Hollow, NY.
Children:
i. John Foshay, b. 10 Oct 1768 in Mt Pleasant, Westchester, NY; d. 03 Jul 1813; m. Mary Lawrence, 25 Jan 1789.
ii. Mary Foshay, b. 19 Jan 1771; d. bef. 1809; m. William J. ‘Brooks’ (JURCKSE) YERKS.
iii. Jane Foshay, b, 14 Mar 1773; d, 23 Jul 1856; m. Jacobus (James) Van Wert.
iv. William Foshay, b. 07 May 1775; d. 04 Jan 1811; m. Phoebe Downing, 14 Jan 1803, White Plains NY.
v. Abraham Foshay, b. 04 Apr 1777; d. aft. 1855; m. Catherine Jane Allaire.
vi. Anna Foshay, b. 24 Apr 1779; d. 10 Jul 1823 in Hawthorne, Westchester, NY; m. John Vincent, 1793.
vii. Rebecca Foshay, b. 11 Sep 1781.
viii. Elizabeth Foshay, b. 10 Sep 1783 in Tarrytown, NY; d. there 07 Sep 1870; m. George Kniffen Hall.
ix. Miriam Foshay, b. 19 Apr 1784.
x. Isaac Foshay, b. 05 Nov 1789; d. 05 Jun 1860; m. Mary Adams, ca 1813.
xi. Jacob Foshay, b. 21 Sep 1791 in Tarrytown, NY; d. there 09 Dec 1865; m. Esther Williams.
xii. Martinus Foshay, b. 12 Sep 1793 in Tarrytown, NY; m. Catherine(Cynthia) Falconer.
xiii. Andrew Foshay, b. 08 Sep 1796 in Mt Pleasant, NY; d. 18 Mar 1837 in New York, New York; m. Susan Austin.
-----
Abraham Hyatt
http://wc.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?op=GET&db=buchroeder&id=I529086621
Abraham HYATT b. 20 May 1747 in White Plains, Westchester, NY; d. 3 Jun 1830 in Chappaqua, Westchester, NY; son of Nathan
Hyatt b. ca 1712 in Westchester, NY, and Anna HUNT b. ca 1715; m. Sarah RYDER b. ca 1750 in New Castle, Westchester, NY.
Children, b. in [Chappaqua] New Castle, Westchester, NY:
1. Samuel HYATT b. 06 Jan 1770
2. Phebe HYATT b. 16 Dec 1771
3. Fanny HYATT b. 24 Jan 1773
4. Nathaniel HYATT b. 03 Nov 1781; d. 22 Aug 1823 in New Castle, Westchester, NY
5. Elizabeth HYATT b. 30 Oct 1785
30

6. Esther HYATT b. 23 Dec 1787
7. Joseph R. HYATT b. 23 Dec 1787
8. Abraham HYATT b. 12 Feb 1790
Abraham has a brother Nathan, b. ca 1745 in White Plains, Westchester, NY; d. 1824 in Westchester, NY.
http://www.westchesterarchives.com/HT/muni/wchs/hyattMilComFull.html
Abraham Hyatt, born in Chappaqua in 1747, received this commission as Second Lieutenant in Company Eight of the Fourth
Battalion of the New York State forces on November 21, 1776. The document, signed by founding father John Hancock, President
of Congress, is a very early document of Westchester’s role in the American Revolution. The county’s population suffered greatly
during the seven years of war, and Hyatt’s service helped to protect local farmers and their families from Cowboys and Skinners—
marauders from both the British and American sides during the conflict.
-----
http://www.finison.com/phpgedview/individual.php?pid=I14995&ged=finison.GED
Gilbert Montross [Mentross] b. ca 1779 -- Yorktown, Westchester, NY; d. 9 March 1837; son of John Mostross (ca
-1797) and Phebe Craft; m1. Mary ‘Polly’ Craft b. 20 March 1777; d. 15 May 1801. Child: John Montross b. 22 October 1799; d. 28
August 1843; m2. Maria Walton Van Cortlandt b. ca 1785; d. 21 May 1870, Brooklyn, NY, d/o William Ricketts Van Cortlandt* and
Elizabeth Kortright.
Children by Maria:
i. Louis P. b. ca 1818 Yorktown, NY; d. 1888
ii. Cortlandt b. ca 1824; d. 1885
iii. Henry b. 31 May 1816; d. aft. 1890
* William Ricketts Van Cortlandt, second son of Stephen Van Cortlandt by his wife Mary Walton Ricketts, was born 12 Mar 1742; m.
3 Jan 1765, Elizabeth, d/o Cornelius Kortright.
-----
31

“Souvenir of the revolutionary soldiers' monument dedication, at Tarrytown, New York,” by Tarrytown Monument Committee,
Marcius Denison Raymond, 1894. page 135.
http://books.google.com/books?id=nktGAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA99&lpg=PA99&dq=%22Deliverance+dutcher%22&source=bl&ots=0dG3
W1addK&sig=NG4eFxXwCu0D6zN-uG5U1GuoYhE&hl=en&ei=baHfTdHrI42tgeLo6n7CQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=2&ved=0CCAQ6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q=%22Deliverance%20dutcher%22&
f=false
Isaac Requa
Capt. Glode Requa
Glode, Jr., or Capt. Glode Requa, as he came to be during the Revolution, was a well defined figure upon our local horizon, a
distinct personality the date of whose birth and death, and place of residence, and burial, distinctly appear. He was born May 4th,
1727, and died Dec. 9th, 1806. He married—date not known—Eimy Dean, daughter of Thomas Dean and sister of Sergt. John
Dean of the Revolution, and had a family of six sons and three daughters. He was early appointed to the command of a Company of
Militia on this Manor, and of the services so performed by him frequent mention is made in the applications for pension of those who
served under him. The following accounts copied from the books of the State Treasurer show various sums paid to him and his
command for such service:
April 19, 1777, paid Capt. Glode Requa for his Company, . .£60.14.7.
Sept. 17, 1778, paid Capt. Glode Requa for his Company, . . £83.16.
He was for one year a prisoner in the old Sugar House Prison, New York, but the date of his capture does not appear. He was like
many others, obliged to remove his family elsewhere for safety, as stated by Peter Van Woermer, his neighbor, to Collaberg,
present Croton. He took title from the Commissioners of Forfeiture to valuable farm of 296 acres which he had previously occupied,
and also to four lots of one acre each in the present Tarrytown, and at his death left a valuable estate.
The old Manor records show that Glode Requa was chosen one of the Assessors the 1st Thursday of April, 1753, and that the ear
mark of his stock was recorded April 1, 1767. It is said of Glode, Sr., that he was very Frenchy in his talk, and difficult to understand
on account of his foreign speech. That he occupied the farm which afterwards descended to his eldest son, Glode, Jr., is
unquestioned, and that was the early home of the family on this Manor.
Isaac Requa, the eldest son of Capt. Glode, born 1758, was a Soldier of the Revolution, and commissioned as Adjutant of Col.
Hammond's Regt., June 16, 1778, having previously been a Lieutenant in Capt. Jonas Orser's Company. Also served under his
father, Capt. Glode. The date of his being taken prisoner appears from the following account rendered against the State, which was
duly audited:
The State of New York, Dr. To Isaac Requa to his pay as Lieut, and Adjt. for the time " I was in Captivity" from Jan'y 31, 1779,
until Mar. 10, 1780, ,£244.17.9.
Henrietta Paulding Requa, widow of Adjt. Isaac Requa, son of Capt. Glode, in her application for pension says that she was married
to Isaac Requa on 12 Apr 1784, when she was 18. That she was a daughter of William Paulding, and was born 8 Oct 1766.
Peter Van Woermer, aged 87, said he was well acquainted with Isaac Requa and lived in the same township with him during the
Revolution, one or two miles from him. That his father and the father of the said Isaac removed for a time to Collaberg, 10 or 12
miles above Tarrytown, during the Revolution, and that the two families lived near each other on opposite sides of the road. That he
was for a time a soldier in the Regt. of which Isaac Requa was Adjutant, and that he had often seen him in his regimentals on
parade. That said Isaac Requa married Henrietta, daughter of William Paulding, deceased, of Tarrytown. That he kept store in
Tarrytown; that the store was in the corner of his house which adjoined that of his wife's father, the late Wm. Paulding, and that he
was in the habit of dealing with him and trading with him at that place. . . .
Henrietta Paulding was married to Isaac Requa in May 1784. Her father was Commissary General, and after the battle of White
Plains removed his family to Bedford; after peace was declared they immediately returned. Justice Requa married them. He (Isaac),
died in Feb 1826. His commission as Adjutant is on file with the pension papers of his widow at the Pension office in Washington.
Isaac Requa, subsequently to the Revolution, became a prominent man in this county. He was Supervisor of the town of
Greenburgh for six successive terms, from 1787 to 1792, inclusive; was Justice of the Peace for nearly twenty years, and from 1810
to 1820 was an Associate Justice, or side Judge, sitting at County Courts, and was commonly known as Judge Requa. He was
successfully engaged in business at his residence adjoining the residence of Gen. Paulding near the Requa Dock. He accumulated
a large estate for those times, and was a highly respected citizen. He left no descendants.
-----
Captain John Romer
Ibid. page 176.
The Romer Family
Mrs. Charity Tompkins, in an interview, date of Aug. 31, 1847, gives the following sketch of the Romer family, early of this vicinity: ''
Old Mr. (Jacob) and Mrs. Romer, parents of John Romer, came from the same parish, or village, in Switzerland, and had become
attached to each other in early infancy; she the daughter of a farmer, and he the son of a tailor, and a tailor himself. When grown up
they wanted to marry, but her parents refused consent. They then determined to seek their fortunes in America, and left their native
place together. When they arrived at New York she had money to pay her passage, while his means were exhausted. He was about
to sell himself for a time, as the custom then was, when she said, 'You can earn money to purchase my freedom sooner than I can
yours. Let me be sold then and you work at your trade until you can earn enough to buy my time, when we will marry.' He consented
32

to this arrangement and paid for his passage with her money, while she was sold. When he had earned sufficient, her freedom was
bought," and so they were married, Aug. 11, 1754. Her name was Frena Haerlanger.
This Jacob had three sons, John, James and Hendrick, all of whom were Revolutionary soldiers. . . . John married Lea[h], the only
daughter of Cornelius Van Tassel . . . . James Romer was one of those who made up the party at the time of capture of Andre, but
the following account is given by John, who was afterwards known as Capt. John Romer: "The captors of Andre stopped at my
father's in the morning before day and took breakfast, and took a dinner, prepared for them by my mother, in a pewter basin and
basket. They stopped a while upon the hillock east of the road and north of the brook, and there took their repast; afterwards
crossed the road and when they captured Andre were south of the brook. After the capture they forgot all about the basket and
basin, but on arriving at our house described where they had left them and I [John] was sent for and found them on the abovementioned
hillock. (That basin is still in existence in the hands of J. C. L. Hamilton, a grandson of John Romer.) Paulding returned
from the capture in advance of the rest. My mother was a very warm Whig. Paulding said to her, 'Aunt Fanny, take care what you
say now; I believe we've got a British officer with us.' There was a cart road leading from James Requa's to Isaac Read's tavern,
though I think Andre went on by Requa's to where Peter See's store is, and so towards Tarrytown. My father's house was about a
quarter of a mile from the White Plains and Tarrytown road, and a mile from the Post road. (It was located near the pump house of
the Tarrytown Water Works.) The brook where Andre was taken was called Clark's Kill. After his capture he was taken into the
thicket on the east side of the road and to the old white-wood tree, about one hundred and fifty yards from the brook near which he
was taken, and it was under that tree that they searched him and discovered his papers."
Map of the locality of Major Andres capture
John was a son of Jacob Romer, whose house is shown above and was later owned by John.
“Historical sketches of the Romer, Van Tassel and allied families, and tales . . .,” edited by John Lockwood Romer
http://books.google.com/books?id=_FBPAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA16&lpg=PA16&dq=%22captain+john+romer%22&source=bl&ots=XFJXanVAG2&sig=1
FhgiUMxWTr-OZXedWYOJ9xUSvc&hl=en&ei=8JrfTZOvO5SUtweKtXtCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CCUQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=%22captain%20john%20romer%22&f=false
HE AIDED ANDRE'S CAPTORS.
Captain John Romer, who died in 1855, Westchester's Last Revolutionary Soldier.
Joined the Continental Army when only a boy — later, in the War of 1812, he once more served his Country.
The last surviving soldier of the Revolution living in Westchester County died in 1855. He was John Romer, a son of Jacob Romer,
and was born on November 10, 1764, in the place now called East View, in the town of Greenburg, three miles east of Tarrytown.
John Romer and his four elder brothers were private soldiers in the Revolutionary War. The captors of Major Andre — David
Williams*, Paulding and Van Wart — together with James Romer, one of the five brothers, Yerkes, Dean and See, obtained their
breakfast at the house of Jacob Romer on the morning of the capture, and there they had a luncheon prepared, which they carried
away in a pewter basin. On their way to the Tarrytown Post Roads they stopped at the house of Archer Read and obtained a pack of
cards, after which they proceeded to the places of their concealment — three taking places near the famous tulip tree, upon the new
Post Road, and the other four remaining to guard the old Post Road, about six hundred feet distant. After the capture the three led
Andre up to where the others were stationed, and then the whole party proceeded directly to the house of Jacob Romer, where they
remained and had their dinner. In their hurry to get Andre away from the public highway, the captors forgot the basin above
33

mentioned containing their lunch, and while dinner was being prepared, John Romer, then a lad sixteen years old, was sent after it.
Upon his return he accompanied the party to Colonel Sheldon's headquarters in North Castle, their route lying across lots and
through the woods, in order to avoid the highways as much as possible. This is briefly the story of the capture of Andre as told by
John Romer many years afterwards. He was selected in 1853 by the Monument Association to identify the exact spot where the
capture took place, and selected a spot east of the present Post Road at Tarrytown. The monument was erected on the west side,
because the property where the capture really took place could not be obtained for the purpose.
* It appears that by a special dispensation David Williams had been made a Mason while on his visit to the city of New York, but it
was not generally known until a body of fellow craftsmen gathered at his bier clothed in their white aprons and full Masonic regalia.
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_4_Q_to_Z.htm
David Williams (1754-1831) American patriot and one of the trio who captured Major Andre in the American Revolution. b. 21 Oct
1754 in Tarrytown, NY. Enlisted in 1775 and served under Gen. Richard Montgomery at St. John's and Quebec, continuing his
service until 1779, when he resigned. His feet had been badly frozen and this partially disabled him for life. With John Paulding, q.v.,
and Isaac Van Wart, he was one of the captors of Major John Andre on 23 Sep 1780. After the war, he bought a farm near the
Catskill mountains that had been the property of Daniel Shays, q.v., leader of Shay's rebellion. He was given a silver medal by order
of congress. He was raised in Lotus Lodge No. 31, N.Y.C. in 1827. Charles A. Lakin in his History of Military Lodge No. 93, Manlius,
NY. states that he was first Junior Warden of this Lodge and presented the lodge with a sword he had taken on the Battlefield of
Yorktown. d. 2 Aug 1831.
[Note: it would appear the David Williams, noted as belonging to Military Lodge No. 93, is a different David Williams, of whom it has
been written in Revolutionary soldiers resident or dying in Onondaga County, NY . . . , “ by Franklin Henry Chase, page 100:
http://books.google.com/books?id=-
3sPAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA100&dq=%22david+williams%22+%22yorktown%22+%22pompey%22&hl=en&ei=6gzgTdTyEIuftweO7ajoC
Q&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CCoQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=%22david%20williams%22%20%22yorktown
%22%20%22pompey%22&f=false
“DAVID WILLIAMS—This veteran has been confused with his son David, who was buried in the Manlius cemetery, Nov 1875, aged 92
years. It is also said that "David Williams settled in Pompey in 1801, where he lived to the advanced age of 93 years. His farm was
situated about a mile and a half north of Watervale." Which David this was does not appear in this but it was the son. The father,
with three others, built a sawmill at Edwards' Falls, but he soon exchanged his interest for 60 acres of land. He was overseer of the
poor, 1794-6; lieutenant in a new Onondaga company in 1797; captain in 1798; 2d major in 1st Onondaga Regt., in 1801, and lieut.
colonel in 1803. He was ensign in 1793, when his son David was but eleven years old. Of the son the Pompey Reunion said: "The
subject of this sketch was born in Halifax, (Mass.) July 16th, 1782, and when nine years old came to Pompey. At the age of twentyone
he married Mary Eastman who was born July 4th, 1782.... Mrs. Williams' father, Timothy Eastman, served seven years in the
war of the revolution." Whether he also lived in Pompey was not stated.
“In Lakin's history of Military Lodge David Williams is mentioned as a captain in the Revolution, but he evidently had not this rank.
Lakin adds: "In 1802, when Military Lodge was instituted, he presented it with a sword that he secured on the battle field of
Yorktown. This old relic is held in high esteem—a prize without price." He was the first Junior Warden. It now appears that he was
born May 7, 1744, made his will July 26, 1827, which was proved Sept. 9, 1829, in the year of his death, making him 85 years old.
His wife survived him.” Note: Lakin also records that he was a Charter Member of Military Lodge, Raised 2 Sep 1802 – g.l.h.
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_3_K_to_P.htm
John Paulding (1758-1818) Major of American Revolution, who with two others, captured Major Andre. b. in 1758 in N.Y.C. He
served throughout the Revolution, and was three times taken prisoner by the British. A few days after his escape from his second
imprisonment, he, Isaac Van Wart, and David Williams were patrolling the east bank of the Hudson River, when they intercepted
Andre, who was on the way back to the British lines after his interview with Benedict Arnold. They refused to be bribed by Arnold
and later Congress struck a silver medal for each of them. The Eastern Argus of Portland, Maine, carried the following on 3 Mar
1818: "Died at Yorktown, NY, Major John Paulding, one of those distinguished Revolutionary patriots who received the thanks of the
nation for the capture of Major Andre. His remains were accompanied to the grave by a corps
of cadets from West Point, a Lodge of the Masonic fraternity, and a great concourse of
people." He was a member of Cortland[t] Lodge No. 34, Cortland[t], Westchester Co., N.Y.
He appears on the 1797-98 register of the Lodge, so he was initiated sometime between
1793 (date of charter) and 1797. d. 18 Feb 1818.
After the Revolution, John Romer married Leah, daughter of Cornelius Van Tassel, a
lieutenant in the war in Colonel Drake's Regiment of Militia, organized October 23, 1775.
Through his wife, John Romer became possessed of the Van Tassel farm, at Elmsford, upon
which he built the house long afterwards used as the Greenburg Town House. This house
was erected upon the site of the Van Tassel house, burned by the British in 1777, Leah, then
an infant, and her mother being turned out into the cold of a November night that the
structure might be destroyed.
Captain Romer was one of the prominent Free Masons of the county in his day, having been
admitted to Solomon's Lodge [sic], of Mount Pleasant, in 1800. Solomon's Lodge, at that
time, was in the settlement called Sparta, now a suburb of Sing Sing. Afterwards the Lodge
was moved to White Plains; then it was moved to Elmsford, and then under a reorganized
charter it was placed in Tarrytown, where it has remained and flourished for many years.
In 1853, at the dedication of the monument to the captors of Major Andre, at Tarrytown, John
34

Romer was a guest of honor as one of the few survivors of the Revolutionary soldiers. He died
at Elmsford on May 27, 1855, ninety years and six months old, and was buried in the
churchyard of the Reformed Church in that place, not far from the grave of Isaac Van Wart.
John Romer seems to have been particularly happy in having possessed during his life the
respect and esteem of all those who knew him. All the local traditions and reports concerning
him indicate that he was kind, honest and upright, a good citizen and a pleasant neighbor. The
fact that he was a soldier at sixteen and again at the age of forty-eight, serving his country at
the two extremes of life, as it were, is sufficient indication that in patriotism he was a worthy
representative of the Westchester county yeoman, whose fidelity, perseverance and
endurance did so much for the cause of American liberty in "the days that tried men's souls."
—New York Tribune, July 6, 1896.
Captain John Romer died in his old homestead on May 27, 1855, and was buried by
Solomon's Lodge in the churchyard of the Presbyterian church at Greenburg, beside Leah,
his wife, near the last resting place of his lifelong friend, Isaac Van Wart The funeral services
were conducted by Reverend Victor M. Hurlburt, of the First Reformed Church of Yonkers.
After a brief service at the house, the cortege, more than a mile in length, proceeded to the old
church at Elmsford, the members of Solomon's Lodge marching upon either side of the
hearse. Reverend Mr. Hurlburt, after reading selections from the Scriptures, chose a part of
the 31st verse of chapter 49 of Genesis, "There I buried Leah," as a basis for an eloquent
address, which was followed by the Masonic burial rites about the open grave in the
adjoining churchyard.
------
There's naught but what's good to he understood by a free and accepted Mason.
Capt. JOHN HOMER,
BORN
NOV 1O, 1764
DIED
MAY 27, 1855
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_4_Q_to_Z.htm
Daniel D. Tompkins (1774-1825) Sixth Vice President of the United States, 1817-25. b. 21 Jun 1774 in Fox Meadows (now
Scarsdale), NY. His father was a farmer. Graduate of Columbia U. in 1795, studied law, and admitted to the bar in N.Y.C. in 1797.
Was elected U.S. congressman, but resigned before taking seat in order to become associate justice of the supreme court of N.Y. in
1804. He served on the bench until 1807, when he resigned to become Governor of New York 1807-17, a term of ten years. Before
resigning the governorship and entering the office of vice president, he sent a message to the legislature on 18 Jan 1817,
recommending that a day be fixed for the abolition of slavery within the bounds of the state. The assembly acted, setting the date as
4 Jul 1827. He served two terms as vice president (1817-25), and while holding that office was elected twice as Grand Master of the
Grand Lodge of New York (1820-21). He was made a Mason in Hiram Lodge No. 72, Mt. Pleasant, Westchester, NY, 2 Feb 1800.
This lodge did not long survive and on 7 Oct 1802 he was "admitted" a member of Salem Lodge No. 74, Salem, Westchester, NY.
He had been a Mason only four months, when, on 4 Jun 1800 he was elected Deputy Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge. He
served in this capacity until 15 Jun 1801. On 25 Jun 1801, he became Grand Secretary and held this office until 13 Jun 1805. He is
known to have been a Royal Arch Mason and Knight Templar. In 1824 he was made an honorary member of Morton Commandery
No. 4, K.T. of N.Y.C. In his first election as Grand Master on 2 Jun 1819, his opponent was DeWitt Clinton, who had succeeded him,
and was then Governor of New York. Although he was not able to be present at all the Grand Lodge meetings, he did attend on 5
Jul and 12 Sep 1820; 14 Mar and 9 Jun 1821 and 5 Jun 1822. On 6 Jun 1822, he declined another term as Grand Master. On 11
Jun 1822 the Grand Lodge passed the following resolution: "Resolved, unanimously, that the thanks of this Grand Lodge be
presented to the R.’.W.’. Daniel D. Tompkins, for the services rendered by him to the fraternity, in officiating as their presiding officer
for the last two years." Tompkins received the 32° AASR on 8 Nov 1808 at the hands of John G. Tardy 33°. On 5 Aug 1813 he
received the 33° at the hands of a Provisional Supreme council and was immediately elected sovereign Grand Commander of the
newly formed Supreme Council, Northern Jurisdiction. He was Grand Commander up to the time of his death in 1825. On 8 Nov
1820 he attended a meeting of Independent Royal Arch Lodge No. 2, N.Y.C. and the same evening was initiated into the "Mystery
of the Union" or "Union Degree" at a meeting of the grand officers of the Grand Lodge of New York and Masters of Lodges in N.Y.C.
On 2 Apr 1821 he is recorded as a visitor to Hiram Lodge No. 449. He was present at the Grand Lodge sessions on 5 Jun 1823, the
year after he relinquished the grand mastership. When General Lafayette visited America in 1824, Tompkins, as vice president,
entertained the French Freemason at his residence in Staten Island, NY, on Sep 15-16. The apron he wore while Grand Master is
now in possession of that Grand Lodge. The Grand Lodge also possess another historic relic identified with Tompkins. When the
affairs of the old United States Bank at Washington, D.C. were wound up, a small gold trowel used by Benjamin Franklin in his
Lodge, was found in the safe. Tompkins presented it to Franklin Lodge No. 447, N.Y.C. and the Lodge later presented it to the grand
lodge. He d. 11 Jun 1825.
-----
Philip Van Cortlandt
Note: there are several Philip Van Cortlandts from the family and geographical area of Hiram Lodge in Mt. Pleasant. The below
Philip was recorded by Denslow as having become a member of Solomon’s Lodge No. 1 on 8 Aug 1777. Otherwise, there is no
35

further information on just which Philip it was that was a member of Hiram Lodge No. 72 during its brief existence from 1798 to
1817.
Below are some of the other Philps in this esteemed family:
Philip Van Cortlandt, born 9 August, 1683; died 21 August, 1746; married Catharine De Peyster. [Died before Hiram Lodge was
chartered].
PHILIP VAN CORTLANDT, eldest son of Stephen Van Cortlandt by his wife Mary Walton Ricketts, became the fourth head of the family.
He was born 10 Nov 1739; died 1 May 1814. He was graduated at King's (now Columbia) College, in 1758. Preferring a military
life, he entered the British army, in which he served many years. He is buried in Halisham Church, England, where a mural
monument is erected to his memory. He married, 2 August, 1762, Catharine, daughter of Jacob Ogden, of New Jersey. They had
twenty-three children, one of whom was another Philip, born 30 July 1766.[These two Philips, do not appear to be associated with
Hiram Lodge].
Philip Van Cortlandt, b. 21 Apr 1749; d. 21 Nov 1831, unmarried and without issue. He was graduated at Coldenham Academy, and
became a surveyor, and in Jun 1775, was commissioned lieutenant colonel of the fourth battalion New York infantry, and on 30 Nov
1776, by Washington, colonel of the Second New York Regiment, in place of Colonel Ritzema, who had joined the British. He was
present at the surrender of Burgoyne, and in 1779 he was with General Sullivan in the Indian campaign in Western New York. In
1781 he took part in the Virginia campaign, and witnessed the surrender of Cornwallis. After peace was declared Congress gave
him the rank of brigadier-general. He was subsequently a member of the New York Assembly, and a member of Congress for the
West Chester district from 1793 until 1809. He was an officer of the Society of the Cincinnati, and in 1824 he accompanied Lafayette
on his travels through the United States.
10,000 Famous Freemasons from K to Z, Volume 3, by William R. Denslow, Harry S. Truman, page 270.
http://books.google.com/books?id=DcCeOEXGyoC&printsec=frontcover&dq=%2210,000+famous%22&hl=en&ei=h2TeTfGsDqPr0gGStujKCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct
=result&resnum=2&ved=0CDAQ6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q=peter%20van&f=false page 270.
Philip Van Cortlandt (1749-1831) Officer of the Revolution; U.S. Congressman. b. 1 Sep 1749 in
Cortlandt Manor at Croton-on-Hudson, the son of Pierre Van Cortlandt, q.v., the first lieutenant
governor of New York. Graduate of King's Coll. (now Columbia) in 1758. Became a surveyor. In
June, 1775, he was commissioned lieutenant colonel of the 4th battalion, N.Y. Inf., and in Nov.
1776 made colonel by Washington and placed in 2nd N.Y. regiment. At the end of the war he was
breveted brigadier general by congress. He served with General Sullivan on his Western N.Y.
expedition; was present at the surrender of Burgoyne; took part in the Va. campaign, and
witnessed the surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown. Later was a member of the N.Y. state
assembly and senate and was U.S. Congressman from 1793-1809. Was treasurer of the Society
of the Cincinnati for N.Y. many years, and when Lafayette came to the U.S. in 1824, Van Cortlandt
accompanied him through the country. Became a member of Solomon's Lodge No. 1, N.Y.C. on
Aug. 8, 1777. d. Nov. 5, 1831. {Note: Bro. Denslow records this as Peter Van Cortlandt in his
book.)
Philip Van Cortlandt Solomon’s Lodge No. 1
http://www.iment.com/maida/familytree/henry/bios/generalphilipvancortlandt.htm
Philip VAN CORTLANDT, (brother of Pierre Van Cortlandt, Jr.), a Representative from New York;
born in New York City August 21, 1749; pursued classical studies; attended Coldenham Academy and
was graduated from King's College (later Columbia University) in 1768; engaged as a civil engineer;
member of the Provincial Congress in 1775; during the War of the Revolution served as lieutenant
colonel and was mustered out of the service with the rank of brigadier general for gallant conduct at
the siege of Yorktown under General Lafayette; delegate to the State convention which adopted the
Federal Constitution in 1788; served as supervisor of the town of Cortland, and as school
commissioner and road master; member of the State assembly 1788-1790; served in the State senate
1791-1793; elected as a Democrat to the Third and to the seven succeeding Congresses (March 4,
1793-March 3, 1809); engaged in agricultural pursuits; accompanied General Lafayette on his tour
through the United States in 1831; was a charter member of the Society of the Cincinnati; died at Van
Cortlandt Manor, Croton on Hudson, Westchester County, NY, on November 1, 1831; interment in
Hillside Cemetery, Peekskill, N.Y.
-------
Lossing's Field Book of the Revolution, Vol. 1, Chapter 31
General Philip Van Cortlandt was the last possessor of the manor house, near Croton, by entail. He was born in the city of New York
on the 1st of September, 1749, and was reared at the manor house. At nineteen, he commenced business as a land surveyor, but
when the Revolution broke out, agreeing in sentiment with his father, Honorable Pierre Van Cortlandt, he joined the Republican
army. His Tory relatives tried to dissuade him from his purpose, and Governor Tryon forwarded him a major’s commission in the
Cortlandt militia. He tore it in pieces, and accepted a lieutenant colonel’s commission in the Continental army. He was appointed a
colonel in 1776, and in that capacity served at the battles of Stillwater. He also served against the Indians on the New York frontier
in 1778, and in 1779-80 was a member of the court martial convened for the trial of Arnold. He commanded a regiment of militia
under La Fayette in 1781, and for his gallant conduct at the siege of Yorktown he was promoted to a brigadier’s command. Seven
hundred of the British and Hessian prisoners of war were afterward intrusted to his care while on their march from Charlottesville to
36

Fredericktown, in Maryland. He was for sixteen years a member of Congress, but in 1811 declined a re-election. General Van
Cortlandt accompanied La Fayette in his tour through the United States in 1824. He died at the manor house, at Croton, November
21st, 1831, at the age of eighty-two. With him expired the property entail.
“Institution of the Society of the Cincinnati,” by John Schuyler, page 319-322.
http://books.google.com/books?id=L5YLAAAAIAAJ&pg=PA322&dq=%22James+Stevenson+Van+Cortlandt%22&hl=en&ei=fbboTb
X2Mer20gGG8pWQAQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=10&ved=0CFYQ6AEwCQ#v=onepage&q=%22James%20Steve
nson%20Van%20Cortlandt%22&f=false
PHILIP VAN CORTLANDT - Colonel 2d New York Regiment.
Born on the 1st of September, 1749, in Stone Street, near the Battery, in New York City. Died unmarried, on the 5th of November,
1831,at the Manor House. He was the eldest son of Lieutenant-Governor Pierre Van Cortlandt and his wife, Johanna Livingston,
daughter of Gilbert Livingston, and a great grandson of Stephanus Van Cortlandt, who married Gertrude Van Schuyler, the daughter
of Philip Pieterse Van Schuyler. His grandfather, Philip Van Cortlandt, upon his decease, entailed the Manor to his eldest male
descendant; but his eldest grandson, Philip, whose father sided with the Crown, became a Colonel in the British service, and so was
unable to substantiate his claim after the war.
At the age of fifteen he was placed at the Coldenham Academy, under the care of Professor Adams, until, at the completion of his
studies, when he became proficient in the profession of a land surveyor. Governor Tryon commissioned him Major of Colonel James
Ver Planck's Regiment, raised on the Manor, before the Revolutionary War broke out. When it did, he threw his commission in the
fire, and, notwithstanding the urgent requests of his family's loyal relations, took issue with his father and espoused the cause of the
opponents of the Crown. Governor Tryon and his wife visited the Manor House in hopes of persuading the family to remain loyal; but
finding it useless, left, when young Philip offered his services to and was recommended by the Military Committee, and on the 18th
of June, 1775, was commissioned by Congress Lieutenant-Colonel of the 4th Battalion of the New York Continental Infantry,
marching with it to Ticonderoga. Having procured a leave of absence, and meeting Washington at the house of his relative James
Van Cortlandt, in Westchester County, he appointed him at Kingsbridge on his Staff.
General McDougall wrote to the Military Committee:
"As Lieutenant Colonel Cortlandt is the oldest of that rank, I take it for granted, as he is a young gentleman of family and spirit, he
will be appointed to the command of my old regiment."
Washington now filled up a commission for him as Colonel, dated the 30th of November, 1776, assigning him to the command of the
2d New York Regiment, in place of Colonel Ritzema. He reached his new command at Trenton the morning after the battle, when it
was ordered to Fishkill, where it assisted in the protection of the passes of the Hudson, until ordered to the relief of Fort Schuyler, up
the Mohawk Valley. When St. Leger was defeated, it was ordered back, and joined General Poor's Brigade, opposing the advance
of Burgoyne in Saratoga, until his surrender, on the 17th of October, 1777, when it moved down the river to Kingston, which Sir
Henry Clinton had burned, just before his hasty retreat to New York, and joined Washington at White Marsh, going into Winter
quarters at Valley Forge.
At the request of Washington he remained in command of the post at Radner's Meeting House, while his regiment, in pursuit of the
British retreating from Philadelphia, was engaged without him in the action at Monmouth. He rejoined it at Poughkeepsie, and
resumed the command during the Winter in the cantonments on the Hudson at New Windsor. In the Spring of the next year, 1779,
his regiment, consisting of six hundred men, was ordered to join General Sullivan at Fort Penn. Defeating the Indian chief Brant, in a
skirmish on the way, he reached Wilkesbarre, marching thirty miles through the Wilderness in thirty days, and took part in the defeat
and total rout of Butler's Tories and Brant's Indians, laying their country waste all the way to Tioga. He then brought his regiment to
Morristown, going into Winter quarters there, and sitting on Arnold's Court Martial at Philadelphia in January.
In the Spring of 1780 he brought his regiment again to the defence of the Hudson, with his camp at West Point, when he was
selected to command one of the regiments of light infantry, of the two brigades under La Fayette contemplated for a secret
expedition, but which was temporarily abandoned. La Fayette then went to Virginia, joining General Greene in the Southern
Campaign.
On the 21st of October, 1780, Congress passed the act consolidating the regiments of the different States, and New York's quota
was reduced to two, as follows: The 1st and 3d under Colonel Van Schaick, the 2d 4th, 5th and what was left of Colonel James
Livingston's, and the New York portion of Colonel Spencer's (additional) Regiment, under Colonel Van Cortlandt, taking effect by the
general order of the 1st of January, 1781. In the following Fall he was ordered by Washington to proceed with his regiment as the
rear guard of the army, on the way to Yorktown. There he joined La Fayette and Steuben, and during the siege commanded the
New York Brigade in the trenches until Cornwallis surrendered, when he took charge of the British prisoners in their march to
Fredericksburgh, and finally went into Winter quarters at Pompton, NJ.
In the Summer of 1782, his command encamped at Ver Planck's Point, on the Hudson, near his home, and in the following Winter
went into huts at New Windsor. He was present there at the meeting called by the Commander-in-Chief to consider the disaffection
that had arisen among the troops.
Upon the disbandment of the Army, he presented the colors of the 2d New York Regiment, to Governor George Clinton, at
Poughkeepsie, and retired to his home.
In 1783, Congress gave him the rank of Brigadier-General for his services and gallant conduct at the Siege of Yorktown. He served
as a member in the New York Assembly and State Senate for several sessions, and held his seat in Congress from 1793 to 1809.
When La Fayette visited the United States in 1824, he entertained and accompanied him on his tour.
For many years he served as Treasurer of the New York State Society of the Cincinnati.
37

He died at his residence in the eighty-second year of his age; and this great and distinguished veteran's remains now lie mouldering
in the private burying-ground of the family, near the old Manor House, overlooking the most picturesque and romantic portion of the
Hudson.
The following General Order was issued by the Society on the 9th of November, 1831:
"The Vice-President, in the discharge of his official duty, announces to the members of the Society that their venerable and
respected friend and companion, General Philip Van Cortlandt, departed this life, at his residence in Westchester County, on
Saturday, the 5th inst , in the eighty-second year of his age. Afflicting as this dispensation of Providence must be to the members of
the Society, with whom the deceased was so long associated, it is to be remembered that he died full of years, and possessed, to
the last, the esteem and confidence of his fellow citizens.
"General Van Cortlandt was, at the time of his death, the oldest surviving officer of his rank in the New York Line of the Continental
Army. He was a Major of the Colonial Militia previous to the Revolution; and in the year 1775 he was commissioned to the same
rank in the Revolutionary Army; was appointed Lieutenant Colonel in February, 1776, and Colonel of the 2d New York Regiment in
the month of November of the same year, and at the close of the war he was commissioned as a Brigadier-General. He was in the
Battle of Monmouth Court-house, New Jersey, and in the actions of Stillwater and Bemis' Heights in September and October, 1777,
and had the honor to be present at the surrender of the British armies, commanded by General Burgoyne and Lord Cornwallis.
"General Van Cortlandt's regiment was, upon several occasions, complimented for its discipline and appearance in the orders of the
Commander-in Chief.
"In the year 1793 General Van Cortlandt was elected a member of Congress, and continued a member of that body until about the
year 1809, when he declined public employment, and retired to his farm, near Croton, upon the North River.
"The members of the Society are requested to wear the usual badge of mourning for thirty days, in memory of their deceased friend.
MORGAN LEWIS, Vice-President.
"CHARLES GRAHAM, Secretary."
PIERRE VAN CORTLANDT, Lieutenant-Governor, his brother, was in 1832 admitted in the succession. He married, first, Catherine
Clinton, but had no issue by her, and, secondly, Ann Stevenson. He died 13 Jun 1848, at the Manor House at Croton Landing.
PIERRE VAN CORTLANDT, his nephew, only son of the last, was admitted in 1853. He married Catherine Beck, and died on the
11th of July, 1884, at the Manor House at Croton Landing, having served for many years as one of the Standing Committee.
JAMES STEVENSON VAN CORTLANDT, only surviving son of the last, was admitted in 1885.
----
http://books.google.com/books?id=TUFIAQAAIAAJ&pg=PA319&dq=%22charles+yoe%22&hl=en&ei=CkjgTe6kE4jl0QHEidW9Cg&s
a=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CDUQ6AEwAjgK#v=onepage&q=%22charles%20yoe%22&f=false page 319.
Charles Yoe, an Englishman by birth, who came from Wincanton, Somersetshire, England, to the United States, when he was
eighteen years of age. Soon after his arrival in this country he settled in Westchester County, became closely allied with his adopted
countrymen in their struggle to maintain the form of government which they had established, marched down to New York with the
Westchester County troops to participate in the war of 1812, and aided in throwing up the fortifications on the northern part of
Manhattan Island at that time.
He married Mary Lynch, who belonged to a New York family, antedating the Revolutionary War. Her father, John Lynch, was born
on a farm just south of the old village of White Plains, which has been for a hundred years and more noted locally as the farm on
which the British forces encamped on the eve of the battle of Chatterton's Hill. The old farm was also long famous
for the five large boxwood trees which stood near the homestead, and by reason of its being the home of " Prince " and " Tean," two
colored servants of the Lynch family in the days of slavery in New York, who lived to a great age and enjoyed wide celebrity.
Charles Yoe was a prominent citizen of Westchester County, of comfortable means, and his sons who grew up in the village of Sing
Sing, enjoyed good educational advantages combined with thorough industrial training. He was a trustee of Mt. Pleasant Academy
from the date of its founding up to the time of his death.
----
Ibid. page 174.
Samuel Youngs – b. 4 Dec 1760; d. 12 Sep 1839
The Youngs Family.
Joseph Youngs of the historic Youngs House noted as the headquarters on the American lines for so long a period, and until its
destruction on 3 Feb 1790, after which it was known as Youngs' '' Burnt House,'' was a Justice of the Peace, and a Member of the
Committee of Public Safety, as well as a member of Captain Gabriel Requa's Company of Militia, and was a man of consequence
before the Revolution, his family among the foremost on the Manor. He was captured in the raid made by Major Bearmore upon his
house on the 25th of December, 1778, and remained a prisoner until the 25th of September 1779. The Youngs family had social
prominence in the neighborhood. They had come from Great Neck, L. I., after 1760.
Lieutenant Samuel Youngs, the son of Joseph Youngs, Esq., was a very interesting character. During the early part of the war he
was a volunteer in various companies, did service as a guide, and in 1782 was commissioned as Lieutenant in a company attached
to Sheldon's Dragoons. Being much about the headquarters at his father's house he was familiar with army movements in this
38

locality, and in later years, was a solicitor of pensions for the Revolutionary soldiers of this vicinity, he became, to a large degree,
their unconscious historian, as the files of old papers in the Pension Office at Washington give abundant testimony. After the war he
taught school, studied law, was a member of Assembly, served several terms as Surrogate of Westchester County and was a
Master of Chancery. His later life was spent at Tarry town, where he died unmarried, 12 Sep 1837, in his 77th year. It is claimed by
some that he was the actual "Ichabod Crane" of Irving's "Legend of Sleepy Hollow."
http://www.dalecemetery.com/history.htm
http://sleepyhollowcemetery.org/sleepy-hollow-country/
Revolutionary War Veteran, Surrogate of Westchester County, State Assemblyman, First
person buried at Dale Cemetery, Was Washington Irvings model for Ichabod Crane.
Samuel Youngs was born on December 4, 1760, and died on September 12, 1839. He served
during the Revolutionary War as a Lieutenant in Colonel Weisenfel’s Infantry Regiment.
Throughout the Revolution he served the American Army as a guide over the roads and trails in
the county. He was one of a dozen native soldiers who were known as “The Westchester Guides.”
His father’s farmhouse, located near the intersection of Bradhurst Avenue and Grasslands Road in
Eastview, was the scene of a British raid during the Revolution.
Following the Revolution, he became a schoolteacher and a lawyer and was active politically. He
was elected a state assemblyman in 1796 and again in 1809. He was appointed Surrogate of
Westchester County for terms of one or more years in 1800, 1807, 1810, 181, and 1819.
Samuel Youngs’ remains were originally buried near the Old Dutch Church in North Tarrytown. His
body was removed to Dale Cemetery in 1851 shortly after the cemetery was completed, and he
became the first person to be buried there. Major General Aaron Ward, President of the cemetery
at the time, erected the monument marking the grave site.
According to Scharf’s History of Westchester County, it is believed that Samuel Youngs was used
by Washington Irving as a character model for the famous Ichabod Crane in “The Legend of
Sleepy Hollow.”
The namesake for Irving's hapless schoolmaster is buried in a churchyard in Staten Island. Legend has it that Irving knew Crane
from service during the War of 1812. Irving seems to have picked up only the name, not the character, of the Staten Islander. The
character may have been based in part upon the career of Revolutionary War veteran Samuel Youngs, a resident of the Tarrytown
area. After the revolution, Youngs became a schoolteacher, went on to study law, and was elected to state office—roughly the
career path of the fictitious Ichabod Crane. Youngs was originally buried in the churchyard of Old Dutch Church of Sleepy Hollow—
the setting for The Legend of Sleepy Hollow—but was transferred to Ossining in 1851 when administrators of the fledgeling Dale
Cemetery wanted an notable citizen to grace their new burying ground.
“Historical sketches of the Romer, Van Tassel and allied families, and tales . . . ,” edited by John Lockwood Romer, page 54.
http://books.google.com/books?id=_FBPAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA54&dq=%22samuel+youngs%22&hl=en&ei=mMTfTankDIfW0QGps9X
HCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CDQQ6AEwAg#v=onepage&q=%22samuel%20youngs%22&f=false
Statement by Lieutenant Samuel Youngs.
"In the month of December, 1776, all the Continental troops having been withdrawn from what was then established as the
American lines, which was from Tarrytown on the Hudson River eastwardly by the way of the house of my father, Joseph Youngs,
and the White Plains to the East River, the inhabitants residing on these lines were left exposed to the plundering parties of British
refugees, who with some British troops held possession of the southern part of the county. The Committee of Public Safety ordered
out the Militia of that part of the county who belonged to Colonel Hammond's Regiment, who were accordingly stationed on the
Tuckahoe Road, and some of them at the houses of Peter Van Tassel and Cornelius Van Tassel on the Sawmill River Road; that
about 120 of Colonel Hammond's regiment were continued in the American Service on those lines from the beginning of December,
1776, until May, 1777.
"That in the month of August, 1777, a regiment of levies was raised in the Counties of Dutchess and Westchester, consisting of
about 500 men, and placed under the command of Colonel Ludington and Lieutenant Colonel Hammond, for the term of four
months. In the month of November or December, Colonel Ludington's Regiment was discharged, having served the period of their
enlistment, and the defence of the American lines was again left entirely to the Whig inhabitants; that Colonel Hammond ordered out
a part of his regiment for the protection of those who were daily sustaining serious losses from the plundering British refugees; and
those lines were wholly defended at that period by the Whig militia of Colonel Hammond's Regiment, from October, 1777, to the
beginning of May, 1778.
"That sometime in March, 1778, Colonel Emerick, who commanded about 300 men composed of British and Refugees, sent out
Lieutenant Althouse with thirty-two men, to take and bring in the cattle of Joseph Youngs, and of other Whig inhabitants of the
neighborhood.
"This deponent, Samuel Youngs, was cutting wood about one-quarter of a mile from his father's, the said Joseph Youngs' house,
when he was informed that a party of the British were approaching his said father's house. He immediately started for his home, but
when he had arrived within fifty yards, he discovered the party of Althouse driving the stock from the yard. Then he ran toward the
house of Sergeant John Dean, whom he soon met and informed him that the British were then driving off his father's cattle. Dean
was well armed, and told the deponent that he would find arms and ammunition at his house, and that in the meantime he would
endeavor to get a shot at them. The deponent accordingly proceeded to Dean's house, and Mrs. Dean handed him three muskets
and two bunches of cartridges, while the enemy were within 300 yards of them. That deponent then soon got to the south of
39

Althouse's party of marauders, knowing where he would fall in with about twenty of the Militia; during which time John Dean, Jacob
Acker and Hendrick Romer had attacked the enemy and commenced firing upon them. This alarmed the Militia so that when the
deponent arrived at the house where they were stationed, he found about twenty-five men ready for the contest, but without an
officer to command them. The Militia concealed themselves behind a stone wall near the road that Althouse must pass with his men
and the stock which he had taken. They were permitted to approach within about fifty yards before the Militia opened fire. Althouse
had divided his party, one part driving the stock, while the main party was approaching the stone wall. Before the main attack was
made, John Dean and his companions, Jacob Acker and Hendrick Romer, had commenced their attack on the party driving the
stock and had killed a man named Mike Hart. Immediately after Hart fell we opened fire, killing one and wounding three. We then
sprang over the wall to attack them with the bayonet. Althouse gave us his fire as we were on the wall, by which John Buchannan
was shot through the shoulder and Nicholas Banker through the thigh. Althouse immediately abandoned his plunder and retreated.
We were then joined by John Dean and his companions, and after a running fight of about four miles, we succeeded in killing or
taking Althouse and all of his men, except his guide.
"The Militia on or near these lines were again called out and remained in position until the middle of January, 1779, when Colonel
Aaron Burr took command with about 500 Continental troops. A number of young men of that neighborhood enlisted to serve under
him as horsemen at that time, of whom were the deponent and Sergeant John Dean.
Colonel Burr was succeeded in April, 1779, by Major William Hull, who was driven from those lines in June following, by a party of
British troopers under command of Colonel Tarleton.
"After the defeat and retreat of Hull, the Whig inhabitants of Colonel Hammond's Regiment immediately formed themselves under
some of the officers of said regiment and for a time kept the plundering parties of refugees in check, until almost all the stock was
driven back into the country for safety, when the Militia also had to retire over the Croton River. That in the winter of 1780 deponent
engaged to serve as one of the guides to the Continental troops stationed on those lines. That some time in the month of September
while deponent was a guide to the troops on those lines, and then under the command of Colonel Jameson, whose headquarters
were at a place called Mile Square, in said County of Westchester, about the 23rd day of September, 1780, the deponent well
recollects that the said John Dean, Isaac Van Wart, David Williams, John Paulding, James Romer, Abraham Williams, John Yerks
and Isaac See arrived at the quarters of Colonel Jameson, bringing with them a prisoner who said his name was John Anderson,
together with a number of papers concealed in the boot of the prisoner at the time he was taken, and that a few days afterwards it
was discovered that the prisoner was Major John Andre, Adjutant General of the British Army, etc."
Morton Lodge No. 73, Bedford, New York
Petitions: 18 Nov 1795 and 12 Oct 1798
Warrant: 7 Dec 1798
1817 – Listed as ‘ceased work.’
See also Bedford Lodge No. 382, chartered 18 Apr 1825.
Petitioners 18 Nov 1795:
Bouton, Joseph
Clapp, Henry
Healey, John
Hobby, Caleb
Petitioners 12 Oct 1798:
Bouton, Joseph
Brown, Oliver
Clapp, Henry
Craft, Sutton
Hobby, Caleb
Hyatt, Abraham
Jarvis, Jesse
Lewis, Samuel
Lockwood, Ebenezer
Lockwood, Ebenr., Jr.
Lounsbery, Henry
Lounsbery, Jeremiah
Martin, Gilbert
McDonald, Charles
Lockwood, Ebenr, Jr.
Lounsbery, Jeremiah
Millar, Isaac
Platt, Benoni
Mead, Caleb
Miller, Isaac
Miller, Thaddeus
Newman, Elias
Olmsted, David
Raymond, Joshua
Smith, John
Waring, Jotham
Williamson, John
Olmsted, Nathan
Raymond, Joshua
Rockwell, Stephen
Smith, John
Smith, Samuel [E.A.]
Wilson, Henry
Zanchos, William, Jr.
Tray, Jesse
Waring, Jotham
Williamson, John
Woolsey, John, Jr.
In April, 1770, Caleb Hobby, who was said to have been a " Gentleman,” received a Commission from the Continental Congress,
as First Lieutenant in "the First Regiment of New York Forces," (Historical Manuscripts, etc.: Military Return, xxvll., 101); and he
appears to have joined the Seventh, or Captain Hait's, Company, (Historical Manuscripts, etc.: Military Commissions, xxv., 165,
676.) Soon afterwards, it was said that he and the Second Lieutenant and the Ensign of the Company [Hait's or Hyatt's] “wish to
decline the service; they will be no loss to it." (Historical Manuscripts, etc.: Military Committee's Paper, xxv., 488.)
-----
Ebenezer, Ebenezer Jr. and Ezra Lockwood
“Descendants of Robert Lockwood: Colonial and Revolutionary history of the ...,” by James Lockwood, page 149http://books.google.com/books?id=sXAbAQAAMAAJ&pg=PA295&dq=%22ebenezer+lockwood,+jr.%22&hl=en&ei=CGziTdKQG8Xi0
QHcvojCBw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=2&ved=0CC8Q6AEwAQ#v=onepage&q=%22ebenezer%20lockwood%22&f
=false
Major EBENEZER LOCKWOOD (Robert,1 Jonathan,2 Joseph,3 Joseph4), born March 31st, 1737, at Stamford, Conn., died July 29th,
1821, at Poundridge, New York, aged 84 years, 3 months, 16 days; son of Joseph and Sarah (Hoyt) Lockwood; m. 1, February
16th, 1761, Hannah Smith, of Stamford, Conn., she died May 3d, 1787, aged 45 years; m. 2, Sarah , she died March 3d, 1821, aged
67 years.
40

CHILDREN VI. GENERATION.
i. BETSEY LOCKWOOD, b. 04 Apr 1762, m. Alsop Hunt.
ii. RUHAMAH LOCKWOOD, b. 22 Jan 1765, m. Samuel Read.
iii. HANNAH LOCKWOOD, b. 08 Apr 1768, m. David Osborn.
iv. MARY LOCKWOOD, b. 21 Nov 1769, m. Partridge Thatcher.
v. EBENEZER LOCKWOOD, b/ 27 Oct 1771.
vi. CLARISSA Lockwood, b. 29 Dec 1773, m1, Solomon Cox; m2, Jesse Richards.
vii. EZRA LOCKWOOD, b. 27 Jun 1777.
viii. HORATIO LOCKWOOD, b. 06 Sep 1770, m. Retina Lockwood.
ix. LEWIS LOCKWOOD, b. 18 Dec 1783, licensed as attorney 1806, and died 9 Mar 1816.
Ibid. page 295.
Continued in Appendix II, with extensive notes.
EBENEZER LOCKWOOD, JR. (Robert,1 Jonathan,2 Joseph,3 Joseph,4 Ebenezer5), b. 27 Oct 1771, at Poundridge, NY; d. 5 Jul 1811,
aged 40 years; son of Major Ebenezer and Hannah (Smith) Lockwood; m. Sarah Olmsted; she died 1845.
Children:
i. EBENEZER LOCKWOOD 3D, b. 13 May 1791; lived in Olean, NY, and in Burlington, Iowa, where he died.
ii. ELIZA LOCKWOOD, b. 25 May 1793.
iii, RUHAMAH IX>CKWOOD, b. 13 Apr 1795.
iv. CAROLINE LOCKWOOD, b. 23 Jan 1797.
v. NATHAN OLMSTED LOCKWOOD, b. 02 Jan 1799.
vi. THOMAS LOCKWOOD, b. 08 Jan 1801.
vii. GEORGE W. LOCKWOOD, b. 13 Dec 1802.
viii. AMY LOCKWOOD, b. 06 Jan 1805, "Epiphany."
ix. SARAH ANN LOCKWOOD, b. Feb 1807.
x. HANNAH LOCKWOOD, b. 06 Jul 1809, m. Mr. Garvin, Meadville, PA.
xi. CLARISSA LOCKWOOD, b. 04 Dec 1811.
----
Ibid. page 296.
HON. EZRA LOCK WOOD (Robert,1 Jonathan,2 Joseph,3 Joseph,4 Ebenezer5), b. 27 Jun 1777, at Poundridge, NY; d. 29 May 1853;
resided all his life at Poundridge, NY; son of Major Ebenezer and Hannah (Smith) Lockwood; was Surrogate of Westchester County,
New York, and was appointed by His Excellency Martin Van Buren, then Governor of the State of New York, Judge of the Court of
Common Pleas, for said County; m. Sally Weed, b. 14 Aug 1779; d. 30 Jan 1857, d/o David and Rebecca (Brown) Weed, of
Stamford, CT; David d. May 1814, and Rebecca d. Mar 1797.
Children:
i. ALBERT LOCKWOOD, b. 23 Jan 1799; . 5 Jan 1868.
ii. LEWIS LOCKWOOD, b. 05 Sep 1804; d. 11 Feb 1870.
Hon. Ezra Lockwood, who filled the offices of Supervisor, Justice of the Peace, member of the Legislature, Surrogate and Judge of
the Court of Common Pleas, was a brother of Horatio. They were very unlike, however. Ezra was a man of studious habits and well
educated, but he lacked the elements of popularity, which his brother possessed. He was an ardent Whig, and at times party spirit
ran so high that the two brothers would not speak, although they lived opposite to each other.
Ezra Lockwood, son of Major Ebenezer Lockwood, was born at Poundridge, Westchester County, New York, June 27th, 1777. He
married Sally, daughter of David and Rebecca (Brown) Weed, of Stamford. He lived in the village of Poundridge during his whole
life, occupying a residence directly opposite to the old homestead where he was born.
Ezra was well educated, and was of a studious disposition. For some years he taught a private school at Poundridge. He was a
Justice of the Peace of his town and represented it in the Board of Supervisors from 1807 to 1819. He also represented
Westchester County in the State Legislature in the year 1806, and was Surrogate of the County 1808-10, and 1811-13. He was also
for many years one of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas for Westchester County.
http://www.schenectadyhistory.org/families/hmgfm/murray.html
Joseph Lockwood , son of Joseph (1) and Elizabeth (Ayres) Lockwood, was born at Stamford, Connecticut, March 15, 1699, died
at Poundridge, Westchester county, New York, June 15, 1757. He removed with his father to Poundridge in 1743. He was a farmer.
He married Sarah Hoyt, born April 1, 1706, died 1790, daughter of Joshua and Mary (Pickett) Hoyt. Her father was one of the
proprietors of the Stamford patent, granted 1685.
Children:
Eliakim, died in childhood.
Joseph, of whom further.
Elizabeth, born March 7, 1733; married Nathaniel Waring.
Gilbert, died young.
Major Ebenezer Lockwood, born March 31, 1737; justice of the peace under the king until the revolution; major of Westchester
county militia, and was in active service during the revolution; the British burned his house, drove off his stock, then stripped him of
his home and property; after the war he was judge of the county court, frequently elected to the legislature, entrusted with loaning of
the state money in his county. He married (first), February 16, 1761, Hannah Smithy; (second) Sarah ————; ten children. Major
Lockwood died, aged eighty-four years, at Poundridge, New York.
Rachel, born January 19, 1739; married Ebenezer Wood.
41

Mercy, married David Dan.
Hezekiah, died aged seven years.
Prudence, married Elijah Weed.
http://wc.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?op=GET&db=gen1775&id=I9528
Ebenezer Lockwood [Sr.] b. 31 Mar 1737 in Stamford, Fairfield, CT; d. 29 Jul 1821 in Pound Ridge, Westchester, NY; bur. Pound
Ridge Cemetery, Pound Ridge, NY; son of Joseph Lockwood Jr. b. 15 May 1699 in Stamford, Fairfield, CT, and Sarah Hoyt b. 1 Apr
1706 in Stamford, CT; m1. 16 Feb 1761 in Stamford, CT, Hannah Smith b. 05 Apr 1742 in Stamford; m2. Aft. 1787 Sarah Waring, b.
1754. Ebenezer served in the Westchester County Militia Military service.
Children:
1. Betsey Lockwood b. 04 Apr 1762 in Pound Ridge, Westchester, NY
2. Ruhamah Lockwood b. 22 Jan 1765
3. Hannah Lockwood b. 08 Apr 1768
4. Mary Lockwood b. 21 Nov 1769
5. Ebenezer Lockwood [Jr.] b. 27 Oct 1771; d. 05 JUL 1811; m. 1790 Sarah Olmstead
6. Clarissa Lockwood b. 29 Dec 1773
7. Ezra Lockwood b. 27 Jun 1777 in Pound Ridge, Westchester, NY; d. 29 MAY 1853 in Pound Ridge, NY. m.
ca 1798 Sally Weed b: 14 AUG 1779 in Stamford, Fairfield Co., CT
Children:
1. Albert Lockwood b. 24 Feb 1799 in New York
2. Lewis Lockwood b: 05 Sep 1804
8. Horatio Lockwood b. 06 Sep 1779 in New York
9. Lewis Lockwood b. 18 Dec 1783
http://www.web-books.com/Classics/ON/B0/B226/TOC.html
Ref. Major Ebenezer Lockwood [First Judge of the Court of Common Pleas] in The Hidden Children, by R[obert]. W[illaim].
Chambers [ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_W._Chambers ]
Title Page
Chapter 1. The Bedford Road
Chapter 2. Poundridge
Chapter 3. View Halloo!
Chapter 4. A Tryst
Chapter 5. The Gathering
Chapter 6. The Spring Waiontha
Chapter 7. Lois
-----
http://www.njgsbc.org/files/familyfiles/p1385.htm#i43840
Chapter 8. Old Friends
Chapter 9. Mid-Summer
Chapter 10. In Garrison
Chapter 11. A Scout Of Six
Chapter 12. At The Ford
Chapter 13. The Hidden Children
Chapter 14. Nai Tioga!
Chapter 15. Block-House No. 2
Chapter 16. Lana Helmer
Chapter 17. The Battle Of Chemung
Chapter 18. The Rite Of The Hidden
Children
Chapter 19. Amochol
Chapter 20. Yndaia
Chapter 21. Chinisee Castle
Chapter 22. Mes Adieux
Jeremiah Lounsbury [Lounsbery or Lownsbury] b. 1746; d. 12 Apr 1820 at Bedford, NY; unmarried, son of Nehemiah Lounsbury
and Sarah Webb.
-----
“Genealogy of the Olmsted family in America: embracing the descendants of ...,” by George Kemp Ward, page 210.
http://books.google.com/books?pg=PA210&lpg=PA210&dq=%22captain%20nathan%20olmstead%22&sig=_4yyRGAI6S-k2kRCRoPnBWFQuA&ei=GOHiTcSnI4b3gAfjzemVBg&ct=result&id=q0JEAAAAMAAJ&ots=LRBL6Mn4St&output=text
Capt. Nathan Olmsted [Olmstead], b. 8 May 1744; d. at Poundridge, NY; son of Nathan Olmsted and Millicent Goodrich; m1. 7 Dec
1827 Sarah Ambler; d. 10 Jan 1781; m2. 19 Jan 1783 Mrs. Lorina (Brush) Hoyt; m3. Sarah Ann Brush, d. 21 Feb 1810. Capt.
Nathan served in the Revolutionary War; was a Capt. at the "battle of White Plains," was a prisoner in the old " Sugar House," New
York.
1st marriage:
i. Sarah; m. Lewis Lockwood.
ii. Elizabeth; b. 1779; m. Samuel Ketchum Olmsted (No. 4420).
iii. Bethia; m. William Fancher.
iv. Clarissa .
2d marriage:
v. Nathan .
vi. Catherine .
vii. Mary; b. 19 Oct 1786; m. 30 Sep 1810, Jonathan Abbott; b. 14 Apr 1770.
When the first wife of Nathan Olmsted lay dead in the house, the "Cowboys" drove away five cows and two yoke of oxen. As soon
as Col. Sheldon heard of it, he marched with thirty men, and recaptured them Capt. Nathan was Moderator of a Town Meeting 1 Jan
1778, held in Ridgefield, CT, to approve the articles of Confederation of Congress.
Col. David Olmsted [Olmstead] b. 20 Nov 1748; d. 30 Jul 1805; son of Nathan Olmsted and Millicent Goodrich; m1. 22 Oct 1769,
Abigail Ingersoll, b. 7 May 1751; d. 15 Feb 1815; d/o Rev. Jonathan and Dorcas (Moss) Ingersoll, of Ridgefield, CT; m2. Abiah
Keeler, of Norwalk, CT.
He served in the Revolutionary War; was Capt. and Lieut. Col. in 16th Regt. of Horse, Col. Nehemiah Beardsley. He was Lieut. Col.
Commandant, 16th Regt. in Oct., 1781; was Representative in Conn. Legislature fourteen times; was one of a Committee to procure
42

clothing for the Continental Army, Nov. 17, 1778. After the War, he removed to Manlius, Onondaga County, N. Y., and thence to
Janesville, Wis. He was buried in "Corey Cemetery," a small burying-ground near Otisco, N. Y.
1st marriage:
i. DAVID
ii. MILLICENT; b. 09 Aug 1772; m. ____ Keeler.
iii. SARAH INGERSOLL; b. 19 Jul 1774; m. 25 Dec 1791, Benjamin Sanford, of Jamesville, Onondaga County, N. Y.
iv. GEORGE WASHINGTON
v. WILLIAM
vi. CHARLES GOODRICH; b. Aug. 4, 1787.
vii. ABIGAIL; b. 16 Nov 1792.
viii. POLLY; b. 14 Mar 1794; d. in Norwalk, CT, 19 Nov 1847
Captain David OLMSTED of Ridgefield was in command of at least three different companies during the Revolution. In the summer
of 1778 he marched to the Hudson River, where he served with his company in "Colonel Roger ENOS' Regiment on the Hudson" at
West Point and vicinity.
Joshua King Lieutenant of the Continental Army to whom Major Andre, the British spy, first revealed his identity. Member of Union
Lodge No. 40, Danbury, CT.
http://www.ridgefielddiscovery.org/ContentPage.php?page=JoshuKing
JOSHUA KING b. 24 Nov 1758 in Bridgewater, MA; d. 13 Aug 1839. Joshua King was a dedicated patriot who at the age of 17
came to Connecticut to enlist in Sheldon’s Dragoons, a newly formed Patriot cavalry unit. By 1779 he had risen to the rank of
Lieutenant. In September of 1780, he was assigned to guard a “John Anderson” who just had been captured carrying suspicious
papers. King suspected the prisoner was a man of “no ordinary personage” and won his confidence. The prisoner confessed to
King he was really British Major John Andre. Andre had been carrying Benedict Arnold’s plans for the capture of West
Point. Throughout Andre’s imprisonment, trial and execution as a British spy, King was in charge of his safekeeping. They became
so close that King remorsefully escorted Andre to the gallows. In 1817 King wrote a letter describing his time with Andre which is
now considered one of the most accurate accounts of the event.
Sheldon’s Dragoons impressed Gen. Washington’s so much that he assigned them to his command. Subsequently King was
present at the Battle and surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown, VA. After the war, King continued to stay connected with the
Dragoons becoming its Quartermaster and eventually rising to the rank of General in 1796.
It was his infatuation with Anne Ingersoll (sister to Mrs. David Olmsted) that brought him back to Ridgefield after the war. In 1783
he married her and opened King & Dole, a store on Main Street where the Aldrich Museum is today. His abilities & intelligent
brought him a great deal of wealth and prominence. He served as First Selectman 9 times, was Ridgefield’s representative to the
State Legislature ten times and was a Delegate from Ridgefield to the CT Constitutional Convention in 1818. King began a
dedicated follower of Jeffersonian Democracy becoming the head of the Jeffersonian-Republican Party in Ridgefield. This caused a
major political rivalry with Federalist Col. Bradley and brought the country’s political division directly to Ridgefield.
His successful business included mortgage lending & land investments which allowed him have his portrait painted by Gilbert Stuart
and to own an elegant home. Upon his death, the street where it stood was renamed King’s Lane – the same King’s Lane of today.
-----
http://wc.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?op=GET&db=royalancestors&id=I118613
Jotham Waring b. 11 Apr 1768; d. 10 Feb 1829; son of Samuel Waring b. 2 Jan 1742/43 Stamford, Fairfield, CT, and Ruth Scofield
b. 18 Dec 1743 in Stamford, CT; m. 12 Jan 1806 Mercy Lockwood b. 21 Jul 1772 Pound Ridge, Westchester, NY. Child: Hannah
Lockwood Waring b. 13 Jan 1806
-----
http://familytreemaker.genealogy.com/users/b/a/s/Mary-L-Bastian/WEBSITE-0001/UHP-0036.html
John Woolsey Jr. (son of John Woolsey and Ruth Owen) b. 1752; d. 2 Dec 1815; m. Elizabeth Knowlton.
Children:
i. Ruth Woolsey, b. 11 Jan 1789; d. 18 Feb 1848, New York, NY.
ii. Hannah Woolsey, b. 16 Feb 1774; Bedford, NY, d. 1833, Baltimore, NY.
iii. John Woolsey, b. 25 Nov 1777; Bedford, NY, d. 27 Dec 1777, Bedford, NY.
iv. Nathaniel Woolsey, b. Oct 1779, Bedford, NY; d. 1836, Bedford, NY.
v. Elizabeth Woolsey, b. 30 May 1784, Bedford, NY; d. 19 Mar 1866, Bedford, NY.
vi. John Woolsey, b. 13 Nov 1785, Bedford, NY; d. 17 May 1853, Jamesville, NY.
Salem Lodge No. 74 / 72, North Salem, New York
Petition: 12 Jun 1798 for a new Lodge no be named Morton, in the Town of Salem and in the Towns adjacent, Westchester
County. Recommended by Columbus Lodge No. 38, Southeast [Putnam Co.], 18 Jun 1798, and Cortlandt Lodge No. 34, Peekskill,
20 Jun 1798. Signed by:
Holly [Hawley], Joel
Bailey, Hachaliah
Smith, William
Warrant: 20 Dec 1798
Keeler, Aaron
Jones, Daniel
De Forest, Hezekiah
Hyatt, Hazh.
Holmes, Absalom
DeLavan, Danl.
Darling, Samuel
Wallace, Uriah
Delavan, Mathew
Smith, Caleb, Jr.
43

4 Jun 1819, then number of the Lodge was changed to No. 72.
Forfeit: Jun 1834; by Resolution of the Grand Lodge.
This Lodge met for several years in North Salem. Between 1811 and 1817 it changed its place of meeting to South Salem.
The first Officers were installed 9 Jan 1789 by W.’. David Olmsted, Master of Morton Lodge No. 73:
David Delevan Master
Hezekiah De. Forrest SW
Absalom Homes JW
The first Return of the Lodge for 1799-1800 list the following members:
Daniel Delevan Master
Absalom Homes SW
Hezekiah De Forrest JW
Aaron Keeler Treas
Epenetus Wallace Secy
Uriah Wallace SD
Daniel Jones JD
Job Smith Steward
Jabez Jackson Steward
Andrew Malsy Tyler
Bail[e]y, Hachaliah
Bouton, Daniel
Darling, Samuel
Delevan, Matthew
Field, Joseph C.
Hawley, Joel
On the last Return from Dec 1827 to June 1828 the following members are listed:
Pardee, Isaac Master
Lawrence, Norman SW
Lawrence, Cyrus JW
Ambler, Stephen H. Secy
Pardee, Stephen Treas
Gilbert, Stephen PM
Wallace, Epenetus PM
Keeler, Jesee PM
Ambler, Samuel PM
Reynold, Gideon PM
Northrup, Jacob PM
Lockwood, Ezra PM
Ambler, Lewis
Benedict, Martin
Names, other than those listed above, which appear on other Returns, are as follows:
Alvord, Elisha
Bailey, Lewis
Baldwin, James
Barrett, Phineas
Benedict, Lewis
Boughton, Thaddeus
Bouton, Gould
Brown, Christopher
Brown, William
Bundell, Samuel
Clark, Elias
Crosby, Tortullus
Cross, Lockwood
Daw, Peter
Ferris, Alanson
Fields, Van W.
Finch, Edward
Grant, Bratio
Grant, Oratio
Green, James B.
Hall, Peter
Hartford, Harry
Hays, Thatcher
Howes, Daniel
Howes, Joseph
Hoyt, Henry
Hune, John J.
Jackson, Jabez
June, Zabod [Zabud]
Keeler, Jesse
Kellogg, James
Know, Frederick
Lewis, John
Officers
Hawley, Peter
Hyatt, Hezekiah
Lobdell, Ebenezer
Pardee, Ebenezer
Smith, Caleb Jr.
Smith, William
Todd, Abraham
Vail, William
Dauchy, Jeremiah
Hall, Peter
Lodier, Harry
Reynolds, William K.
Tucker, Floyd
Lockwood, Titus
Loder, Harry
Mallory, William
Mead, Graham
Mead, Squire
Miller, Benjamin
Mills, James
Newman, James
Northrup, Amos
Osborn, Augustus L.
Pardee, Daniel
Year Master Senior Warden Junior Warden Secretary
1799-1800 Daniel Delavan Absalom Holmes Hezekiah DeForest Epenetus Wallace
1800-01 Absalom Holmes Epenetus Wallace Abraham Todd William Vail
1801-02 Epenetus Wallace Hezekiah Hyatt Daniel Jones William Vail
1802-03 Abraham Todd Daniel Jones Stephen Gilbert Thatcher Hays
1807-08 Stephen Gilbert Zabud June Ebenezer Pardee Isaac Pardee
1810-11 Stephen Gilbert Zabud June Joel Hawley Epenetus Wallace
1812-17 Stephen Pardee Peter Hall Thatcher Hays
1818-21 Jacob Northrup Jesse Keeler Ezra Lockwood Stephen Pardee
1821-22 Jacob Northrup Jesse Keeler Ezra Lockwood Stephen Pardee
1822 Jun/Dec Samuel Ambler Stephen Pardee Martin Benedict Jesse Keeler
1822-23 Samuel Ambler Stephen Pardee Martin Benedict Jesse Keeler
1823-24 Stephen Pardee Martin Benedict Lewis Ambler Squire Mead
1824-27 Isaac Pardee Stephen H. Ambler Norman Lawrence Stephen Pardee
Dec27-Jun28 Isaac Pardee Norman Lawrence Cyrus Lawrence Stephen H. Ambler
Dec27-Dec28 Cyrus Lawrence Floyd Tucker James Mills Stephen Pardee
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hachaliah_Bailey
Pardee, Enos
Pardee, Stephen
Pennoyer, Gould S.
Platt, William
Seely, Elisha
Smith, David
Smith, Nehemiah
Stephens, Ebenezer
Townsend, Tortullus
Waring, Peter
Wright, Charles
Hachaliah Bailey (pronounced heck-a-LIE-uh) (1775–1845) is the eponym of Bailey's Crossroads, Virginia and a relative to several
famous individuals involved in early American circuses (having founded one of his own). Bailey moved to Northern Virginia in 1837
from Westchester County, New York, and, on December 19, 1837, bought the land at the intersection of Leesburg Pike and
Columbia Pike in Fairfax County, Virginia just outside Falls Church, Virginia, that land now known as Bailey's Crossroads.
44

http://freepages.history.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~dav4is/people/BAIL897.htm
BAILEY, Hachaliah [1774-1845] -- American circus pioneer
In 1808, while residing in Somers, New York, Bailey purchased an African elephant for
$1,000 and named it "Old Bet." Old Bet appears to be one of the first elephants
brought to the United States; she had previously been on exhibit in Boston in 1804, but
Bailey found her for sale four years later in a New York City cattle market.
Bailey originally planned to use Old Bet as a draught animal on his farm, but she
attracted so much attention that he decided to found a travelling menagerie instead. He
started out to show Old Bet with a wagon of hay, a horse to draw it, and an assistant.
The admission fee for an entire family was either a coin or a 2-gallon jug of rum. In
1808, Hachaliah Bailey rented two-thirds of Old Bet to Benjamin Lent and Andrew
Brown, who also had a right to display her.
On July 24, 1816, Old Bet was killed while on tour near Alfred, Maine by a farmer who
thought it sinful for poor people to waste money on a travelling circus, and Bailey
memoralized her in 1825 with a statue and the Elephant Hotel in Somers, New York.
P. T. Barnum, not often cited for his honesty, nevertheless made an accurate
statement when he called Hach Bailey the father of the American circus.
http://www.roadsideamerica.com/pet/oldbet.html
Old Bet - Died 1816 - Somers, New York
The oldest elephant memorial in America belongs, fittingly, to one the first elephants brought to America. This was Old Bet, since
ennobled as "the mother of America's carnival business." Old Bet was an African elephant who arrived in Boston in 1804. She was
then known as Betty, and was being exhibited in Beantown when she was spotted by a farmer named Hachaliah Bailey, who
apparently was smitten. Imagine his shock when, four years later, he stumbled across her for sale in one of New York City's cattle
markets. Hachaliah, who saw Old Bet as something more than three tons of ambulatory meat, bought the elephant and brought her
back to his home town of Somers. He figured that he could charge
his neighbors for a peek.
Hachaliah was right. Old Bet was a hit. Within a few years
Hachaliah had become much less a farmer and much more a circus
showman, showcasing a ragged menagerie of animals that
included a trained dog, several pigs, a horse, and Old Bet, who
obviously was the main draw.
The Elephant Hotel today provides municipal offices for the
town. Old Bet's monument is a well-known local landmark,
but bears no explanatory plaque or inscription.
Hachaliah decided to take his animals on the road in search of greater profits.
It proved to be a fateful decision for Old Bet. On July 24 1816, while on tour
near Alfred, ME, she was shot and killed. The angry farmer who murdered her
thought that it was sinful for poor people to spend money to see an elephant.
On the third floor of the Elephant Hotel visitors can check out the Museum of
the Early American Circus, devoted to the story of Hachaliah Bailey, Old Bet
and the beginnings of the circus in America.
Old Bet is buried along Route 4 in Alfred, Maine.
http://www.roadsideamerica.com/pet/littlebet.html
Little Bett -Died 1826 - Chepachet, Rhode Island
Hachaliah Bailey's interest in touring elephants did not end with Old Bet. Nor
did his bad luck. He acquired a second elephant, Little Bett, who quickly
replaced Old Bet in his pachyderm pantheon. But Hachaliah hadn't learned to
stay out of Puritan New England, and it was there that, once again, tragedy
45

struck. It happened on the night of May 24. Little Bett and her trainer had just put on a show in Chepachet, and were crossing the
only bridge out of town. Suddenly, shots rang out from a nearby gristmill. Little Bett was cut down instantly in a blizzard of musket
fire; she never had a chance. The next day her carcass was skinned on the spot and the hide was shipped to the Boston Museum.
She was only 12.
Seven men were eventually found responsible for the shooting, and two of them were dropped from the Masonic Order for their
deed. But for the next 150 years most of the residents of Chepachet -- especially the Masonic residents* -- were mum about Little
Bett's murder.
Then Chepachet's historian decided that it was time to face the calliope music. He persuaded the Rhode Island General Assembly
to proclaim May 25, 1976 "Elephant Day." On that occasion the citizens of Chepachet -- free at last to atone for their sins -- placed a
commemorative plaque on the bridge to mark the spot where Little Bett had fallen.
* http://www.friendship7lodge.com/about_us
The lodge [Friendship Lodge No. 7, Chepachet, Rhode Island] has had a long held tradition of discipline of its membership.
In the first century of its existence a number of Masonic trials were held for members who broke moral, religious, or civil law.
In fact, falling into the hands of the brethren in those years was more severe than falling into the hands of the local court.
Masonic justice was involved in resolving one of the most infamous, if not now amusing, instances of law breaking the town
has seen. In the lodge records it is referred to as assisting the “gentlemen owners of the loss of their elephant, they being
masons, in detecting and bringing to justice the ‘Villings’ who committed the act.” We are referring to of course to the killing
of Betty the Elephant on Chepachet Bridge in April 1826. A description of the affair has been handed down from generation
to generation and every version is somewhat different. The most lucid explanation of the affair may be found in the memoirs
prepared by Brother Frank H. Potter who was Historian of Friendship Lodge at one time. Inasmuch as many of the Brethren
of the Lodge were implicated in this affair it is very fitting that a statement of the occurrence be incorporated herewith.
“At the time of the shooting of the elephant, Mr. Sprague lived in the house owned by Mrs. Lydia Slocum (now by her
grandson, Charles Carlton) on the north side of the bridge. He and Duty Evans also operated a store in the same building.
He had retired for the night at the time of the shooting and was awakened by the shots. The elephant had been exhibited the
previous afternoon at the hotel, which was operated by Seth Peckham. Fenner Eddy, who was employed at that time in the
tannery of Eddy & Owen was one of the men who shot the elephant and Angel Darling, Ransom West, Ben Brown and Otis
Irons were also implicated. John Inman shot a charge of buckshot into the body of the elephant with seemingly little effort as
the shot barely penetrated the hide. Succeeding shots were from rifles and five bullet holes were found in the animal’s skull.
The shooting was from a finished room on the second floor of the gristmill which stood on the bridge where the participants
concealed themselves and waited until it turned its head towards them in passing by. It was owned by June Brothers, a Mr.
Titus and a widow woman and was valued at $22,000. The hide was removed and sent to the Boston Museum to be
mounted and the bones were ‘boiled out’ at the tanyard and sent to the museum to be articulated. Only a few thousand
dollars was ever recovered from the persons doing the dead and much trouble was experienced in obtaining the small sum
that was paid. Ben Brown told the owners he would give them fifty dollars or they could send him to Hell or Texas. Mr.
Sprague said the trouble was caused by Canto Smith, who was at North Scituate the previous day and was displeased at
something which occurred there. He came to Chepachet the following day and was instrumental in having it shot. Smith
made a contract with Frank West, who was one of the men implicated, not to bring his (Smith’s) name into the scrape and
therefore would pay one half West’s fine. He revealed Smith’s name, however, and caused him to be fined also. Smith
afterwards recovered several hundred dollars from West for this breach of contract.”
On July 15, 1826 a ballot was taken by the Lodge to suspend Brothers Benjamin Bowen, Angel Darling, and Fenner Eddy
for their part in the affair. Being suspended from the lodge no mason in town would do business with them or employ them.
In 1826 you did not do business in the town unless you were a mason. The penalty was more severe than the courts have
imposed and justice was served through Friendship Lodge.
http://archiver.rootsweb.ancestry.com/th/read/INMAN/2007-03/1173065568
American Mercury - Providence, RI – 6 Jun 1826
Providence
June 1
Shooting the Elephant
The perpetrators of this wanton act we are happy to state are fully discovered. Some circumstance having fastened
suspicion upon two individuals they were privately examined and finally induced so make a disclosure of the whole
transaction, which was subsequently repeated on a examination before a Court of Justices, Judge Branch of this town
presiding. From this investigation it appears that there were six persons engaged in the affair. Fenner Eddy, John Inman,
Albert Eddy, Francis West, Angell Darling and Benjamin Bowen. Three guns were to be used. Angell Darling loaded two,
one with seven and the other with two bullets, the other gun was loaded by Albert Eddy, with five bullets. Fenner Eddy and
Inman stationed themselves in the Mill with the three guns, expecting to be joined by a third person, who however did not
appear. West and Bowen gave them notice of the starting and the approach of the Elephant at two separate times. Bowen
told them if there was no man in the way to shoot the Elephant wherever they could hit her. Just as the animal was leaving
the Bridge, Fenner Eddy fired the gun with seven bullets, and as she was falling Inman discharged his gun with two bullets.
Fenner then threw his gun into the floom, seized the gun which had not been discharged, being afraid the dog might attack
him, and they made their escape and soon after mingled with the persons collected on the bridge where their accessories
were also assembled. When the people dispersed the gun was raked out of the gloom, the three guns were deposited at a
Tan-yard, and the parties each went home. After hearing these facts and confessions, the Court ordered the parties
individually to recognize the sum of five hundred dollars with sureties for the same amount; the law which makes the killing
46

of a beast an offence, punishing the same with a fine not exceeding $100 and two months imprisonment, and also
subjecting the party convicted to pay to the owner treble damages to be recovered in an action of trespass. This was
doubtless intended to apply to ordinary animals, horses, kine, etc. and the law could not have anticipated the shooting an
elephant.
In the whole course of this arduous investigation, which occupied more than a day, no direct motive was shown that could
have induced the act. It appears to have been done thoughtlessly in pure love of mischief, and just for the pleasure of killing
an elephant. Unfortunately the parties are not men of much substance, though it is believed some part of the value of the
noble animal they have destroyed may be obtained from them eventually.--Patriot.
http://elephantsinri.blogspot.com/2009/07/up-to-chepachet-again.html
7.15.2009 - Up to Chepachet- again
It was off to Chepachet again for a chat on camera with Edna Kent, Gloucester's Town Historian. I stopped at the Town
cemetery on the way and located one of the shooter's graves with no problem at all. I wasn't at all surprised that Albert
Eddy's impressive grave didn't mention a thing about his role in the historic elephant killing. I intend to go back to hunt the
rest of the gang down, though Fenner Eddy (his brother [cousin?] and the main shooter) is, in fact, buried in upstate New
York.
Note: http://grandmascabin.org/eddy.html
Fenner Eddy b. 11 Jul 1803 East Smithfield, RI; [about 6 miles east of Chepachet, RI]; d. 14 Jan 1878 in Thurston,
Steuben, NY. He was an early settler of Thurston, arriving there in 1824 [1836 ? – see below]. He married Celia Taft and
they were the parents of seven daughters and one son. He was a member of Steuben Lodge No. 112, Bath, Steuben Co.,
NY [about 7 miles north of Thurston, NY], per the Jno. W. Leonard’s “Masonic Register” of 1855.
1. Aileen O’Connor Eddy: b. 23 Jun 1830 in Thurston, NY
2. Marcia Ann Eddy: b. 06 Mar; d. 14 Jun 1914, never married
3. Mary Taft Eddy: b. 19 Aug 1837
4. Julia A. Eddy: b. 12 Apr 1841
5. Eliza J. Eddy: b. 01 Jan 1843; m. Eliphus Edsall
6. Jeremiah Fenner Eddy: b. 14 Dec 1845
7. Vina Eddy: b. 06 Jul 1849; d. 13 Dec 1866
8. Loretta Eddy: b. 09 Mar 1851; m. Charles Nellis
The Eddy family in America: supplement 1980
http://books.google.com/books?id=s4RIAAAAMAAJ&q=%22fenner+eddy%22&dq=%22fenner+eddy%22&hl=en&ei=cHHkTY
f8H-LL0QH_tbGfBw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=2&ved=0CDAQ6AEwAQ
http://www.somersny.com/Pages/SomersNY_About/somershistory?textPage=1
Around 1805 Hachaliah Bailey, a Somers farmer and cattle merchant, acquired an Indian elephant, which he began exhibiting
locally, then further afield. Hachaliah’s success in showing “Old Bet”, as she was known, attracted numerous partners and
competitors from local families, who joined in the business of importing and exhibiting exotic animals. The resulting thriving
menagerie business paralleled the development of the small performing circus troupes, which were first seen in Philadelphia in
1793. By 1828 these two forms of popular entertainment merged to form the basis of the modern American Circus. The majority of
early 19th century circus and menagerie proprietors came from Somers and neighboring towns in northern Westchester and Putnam
counties. This resulted in Somers’ claim as “Cradle of the American Circus”.
Hachaliah’s elephant was killed while on tour in Maine, and he soon imported two elephants, Little Bet and Columbus. He built the
Elephant Hotel, which opened in 1825, and soon after the granite shaft and statue of an elephant was erected in front, in honor of
his elephants.
-----
Daniel Delavan [Delevan] b. 30 May 1757; d. 30 Nov 1835; bur. Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Sleepy Hollow, NY; son of Timothy
Delavan (17112-1792); m. Eliza Delavan, b. 28 Feb 1776; d. 23 Sep 1817.
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=pv&GRid=7267168&PIpi=1759398
47

http://www.mouseski.com/2009/07/trip-to-sleepy-hollow-part-two.html
Daniel Delavan was a captain of the local militia that erected the earth redoubt on which the American Revolution Memorial now
stands and which this plot overlooks. Captain Delavan was originally buried in a cemetery in Ossining, New York but was relocated
to this final resting spot in Sleepy Hollow by a later generation of his family who commissioned the marble figures as a tribute to the
Captain. The plot consists of an ensemble of six marble figures which surround a central granite pillar upon which the figure of Hope
stands.
48

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=21700425
Timothy Delavan, father of Daniel and Matthew. He was b. 1712, Stamford, Fairfield, CT; d. 31 Jan 1792, North Salem,
Westchester, NY. He was the son of Cornelius Delavan and Deborah Green; husband of Hannah Bouton; father of Nathaniel
Delavan, Timothy Delavan, Samuel Delavan, John Delavan, Cornelius Delavan, Daniel Delavan, Abraham Delavan, Stephen
Delavan, Matthew Delavan and Nathan Delavan. Served the American Colonies in the Revolutionary War in the 4th Regiment, New
York Militia. An interesting story from an old family bible tells that when General George Washington entered New York, he was
provided with a body guard of soldiers, who escorted him from his landing place to Fraunce's Tavern. This body guard consisted
entirely of the fine sons of Timothy Delavan, as then recorded. The youngest, Cornelius, was below the required age, but was
accepted as a member due to his unusually fine development and soldierly bearing. It was said that after peace was declared, a
public dinner was given to Timothy Delavan and his sons in New York City, in appreciation of service performed during the war.
“The heroes of the American Revolution and their descendants: Battle of Long ...,” by Henry Whittemore, page 20.
http://books.google.com/books?id=lxARAQAAMAAJ&pg=RA1-
PA20&dq=%22daniel+delavan%22+%22salem%22&hl=en&ei=B_LkTc-
TH8Hm0QHN9OyqBw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CDkQ6AEwAg#v=onepage&q=%22daniel%20delavan%
22%20%22salem%22&f=false
CAPT. DANIEL DELAVAN, Patriot of the Revolution, was the eighth child of Timothy Delavan. one
of the numerous Huguenot refugees who fled from France after the revocation of the Edict of
Nantes, and sought an asylum in this country and settled in North Salem. Westchester County.
NY. He had a son Timothy who was the father of ten sons: Timothy, Abraham, Matthew, John,
Nathaniel, Samuel, Nathan, Daniel, Stephen and Cornelius.
The records of the Comptrollers office at Albany show the names of some of these sons who
served the country in the War of the Revolution The tenth brother, who was too young for active
service, was equally patriotic, and it is related of him that he paraded with his brothers on
occasions of celebration, and joined Wayne's expedition against the Indians in Ohio, 1790-92,
participating in several engagements.
Furnow, page 538, states that Capt. Daniel Delavan was in Colonel Albert Pawling's Levies in
1775. Ensign in 1776, Lieut, in Col Graham's regiment, 1778-9, and Captain in Colonel Malcolm's
regiment, Jul 1780, and attached to the 2nd NY Regiment of Westchester County until the close of
the war. During the evacuation of New York by the British, 25 Nov 1783, Capt. Delavan, at the
head of his company, the Westchester Light Horse, escorted the civic procession to meet General Washington, Governor Clinton,
and General Knox, at the Bulls Head Tavern, which then took up the line of march ending at Fraunce's Tavern, corner of Broad and
Pearl streets, where General Washington had provided a generous entertainment. Capt. Delavan's portrait in continental uniform,
painted by Trumbull, is in possession of the New York Historical Society.
“Army and Navy chronicle, Volumes 2-3,” by Benjamin Homans, page 162.
http://books.google.com/books?id=F7CgAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA162&lpg=PA162&dq=%22General+daniel+delavan%22&source=bl&ot
s=9-sHjxNFQ_&sig=w-
4ijI5Q4ZBdxeXfY9aZKZ0u1Sk&hl=en&ei=avXkTeSPA6Ld0QG4x_mxBw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CBoQ
6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=%22General%20daniel%20delavan%22&f=false
49

from the New York Star. GENERAL DANIEL DELAVAN.
The race of revolutionary officers was a peculiar one —such as a country may possibly produce in time of oppression, tyranny, and
misrule, when the spirit breaks through the shackles which confined it, and every hazard id encountered in preference to a life of
submission or slavery. The patriots of our revolution were born to effect the great objects of freedom there was no rashness no wild
enthusiasm no sudden and transitory feelings of patriotism—all v. as cool, collected and determined—firm of purpose—ever
constant to the cause—fighting boldly for liberty, and calmly enjoying jt when it was achieved.
Among the citizens of the state of New York, who took an early part in the revolutionary struggle, one who has lately been gathered
to his fathers, was Gen. DANIEL DELAVAN.
He was a native of Westchester, a county which, in patriots and soldiers, yielded its full quota in support of the great contest for
freedom, and was about eighteen years of age when the celebrated battle of Lexington was fought, which in every section of the
country kindled a flame of patriotism, General Delavan was commissioned as a captain in the army, and continued to serve in a
military capacity during the whole contest, and only sheathed his sword when the independence of the United States" was
acknowledged by the definite treaty of 1783. His political principles and his early impressions were alike repugnant to the tyranny
and misrule which prevailed in every direction ; and he manfully opposed the minions of a foreign government, and denied their right
to hold the country in a state of vassalage and impoverish the people by ruinous taxation. He took up arms, therefore, with the ardor
of youth, determined to live independent of foreign control, and to assist in emancipating his country from tyranny and oppression.
Fearless, prompt, active and powerful, all his energies were enlisted in the cause to which he had devoted himself; and to a
powerful athletic person, he added a clear, strong, cool head, and a resolution not easily shaken.
The situation of the country at that period afforded very few facilities for the acquisition of knowledge—the schoolmaster was indeed
abroad, but in the Dutch settlements of Dutchess and Westchester, the scholar soon acquired all that the teacher could impart—in
fact the same facility in education was common to the whole country; and what Gen. Delavan failed to acquire in a classical
education, he made up by his natural genius, and clear and sound intellect.
His quickness, intelligence and shrewdness, eminently qualified him for that sort of predatory warfare so remarkable on what was
then termed, the "neutral ground;" and in after ages, in recounting his dangers and the successful ingenuity by which himself and his
comrades were rescued in those spirit-stirring times, the natural trait of his fearless and ardent character were conspicuously
displayed. He was likewise a most trusty officer, strong in his attachments, and undisguised in his aversions; and the proud
consciousness of his fidelity, during his temporary command of the posts at West Point, would occasionally break forth in contrast to
the foul treason of Benedict Arnold. The northern parts of Westchester county opened a broad field for that species of partisan
warfare which kept men continually on the alert against surprise. Sudden small military irruptions, and British plundering parties
were constantly roaming where it was supposed they could ravage with impunity, which made every man in a measure a soldier and
a sentinel. Vast numbers of the
farms were deserted; the women, children and agricultural property were removed to a distance beyond the Highlands, and those
who remained generally dwelt in the nooks and comparatively inaccessible spots among the hills, w here the reward of discovery
was up compensation for the labors and perils. The agitated condition of the country often produced emergencies, which called into
active service during the period of alarm all the able bodied citizens; and a circumstance happened in reference to General Delavan,
which is too extraordinary, if not unparalleled, to be passed over as a most remarkable fact in the annals of this or any other country
on earth.
The General on several occasions had eight brothers all engaged with him in active military duties at the same time! and thus nine
members of the same household at once were engaged in the defence of their country. But although he continued, during nearly
eight years, enrolled with the army in constant service, he passed the dangerous crisis without any personal injury, except a wound
in the left leg, which he received at the storming of Sandy Point, he was also present at the execution of [Major John] Andre.
General Delavan was highly esteemed by General Washington; and as a token ol his regard for him, Lafayette, prior to his
departure for Europe after the revolutionary war, presented him with a sword, as a memorial both of the revolution and of his
friendship.
General Delavan was a proof of the value of a good education, and also of the evil effects produced by the life of a camp, upon
inexperienced youth of impetuous tempers, with an undisciplined mind and moral principles •not thoroughly consolidated; for, after
the treaty of peace of 1783, he found it difficult to cast off the turbulent habits of the garrison, and the restlessness of the military
encampment, for the quietude of social life and the regularity of pacific employments. After a few years, however, he purchased a
large tract of land around Sing Sing, and married a daughter of Judge Johnson, of Putnam county. His native and enterprising spirit
soon was perceptible: and as he discovered that that spot included some of the best natural advantages on the Hudson river, for a
suburban village to New York, he gave himself up to the promotion of its interests; so that to him the present rapid growth of that
village may chiefly be attributed. He procured the turnpike road from the northeastern part of the county to be made, which
terminates at Sing Sing. The early and patriotic emotions of the general were revived during the last contest with Britain; and he
volunteered his aid with that of all his working men, and united in erecting the barricade across Manhattan Island, which was
designed to repel an assault by land upon the city of New York,
General Delavan had successively filled nearly all the civil offices which the counties have to bestow; but, from the period when he
had passed his 70th year, he lived mostly in retirement, gradually becoming more enfeebled, and it is believed more thoroughly and
seriously contemplative in reference to eternity. He departed this life almost without any peculiar monitions of that approaching crisis
in November last [1836], in his 79th year, and was buried where the mortal remains bf his wife and his eldest son and daughter,
await with him the resurrection of the dead. His funeral was attended by a large concourse of citizens of Sing Sing, nearly all of
whom have become residents of that village, long after his hospitable mansion had been the constant resort of the principal citizens
and public functionaries of the State of New York.
50

-----
http://familytreemaker.genealogy.com/users/d/o/u/Pamela-S-Douglas/WEBSITE-0001/UHP-0240.html
Dr. Epenetus Wallace b. 17 Nov 17, 1766; d. 11 Jan 1856; m. Phebe Close, d/o Solomon Close and Abigal Barnum.
http://archiver.rootsweb.ancestry.com/th/read/WALLACE/2007-01/1168719941
3 Epenetus Wallace, b. 18 Nov 1766; d. 11 Jan 1856; m. Phebe Close, b. 8 Jan 1770; d. 21 Jul 1851.
Children; all of these were in North Salem, NY:
4 Matilda Wallace, b. 11 May 1789
4 Jane Wallace, b. 22 Feb. 1791
4 Solomon Wallace, b. 23 Oct 1793
4 Charles Wallace, b. 17 Sep 1796; m. Clara Townsend
5 Epenetus Wallace, b. 22 Jan 1830
5 Isaac Wallace, b. 23 Mar 1832
5 Elbert Wallace, b. 19 Oct 1834; m. Alwilda Wallace
5 Justus P. Wallace, b. 5 Sep 1836, d. 16 Aug 1838
5 Ann Augusta Wallace, b. 3 Jul 1838
5 Maria G. Wallace, b. 10 Sep 1841
5 Eleanor Wallace, b. 27 Oct 1844
4 Abigail Wallace, b. 8 Mar 1799
4 John Wallace, b. 1 Dec 1801
4 Martha M. Wallace, b. 14 Jun 1804
4 Phebe Ann Wallace, b.29 Jul 1807
4 Rachel E. Wallace, b. 14 Dec 1810
4 Tompkins Donald Wallace, b. 18 Jan 1814; m. Henrietta ??
5 Joseph Wallace, b. abt 1852
Armour Lodge No. 100, Sawpit Village, Town of Rye, New York
Petition: Undated, signed by:
Samuel Armour
William Baldwin
Benjamin Crooker
Abraham Gedney
Isaac Gedney
John Guion
Recommended by: Westchester Lodge No. 46, 4 Apr 1803.
Warrant: 10 Jun 1803
Last Return: 1827
Forfeit: Jun 1834
----
http://dunhamwilcox.net/ny/rye4.htm
Thi ? Marselis
Samuel Marvin
Nath’l Penfield
William T. Provoost
Benj’n Rockwell
David Rogers
[Rev.] Evan Rogers
Drake Seymour
John Guion, of Rye Neck, was the grandson of Louis Guion, of La Rochelle, in France, who, 'four years before the Revocation of
the Edict of Nantes, fled with his family into England, from whence he emigrated to America, and settled at New Rochelle about
1687.' His son Louis, who died at New Rochelle about 1725, had five children, of whom John was the youngest. (Bolton, Hist. of
Westchester Co., vol. ii, p. 521.)
In 1746 Joseph Horton sold of John Gujon, for three hundred and fifteen pounds, 'my farm and lands where I now dwell on Budd's
neck ....on both sides of the country road,' comprising fifty acres. This property has but very lately passed out of the hands of his
descendants.
John, born 1 Feb 1723, d. 21 Jun 1792; m. Anna Hart, b. 11 Apr 1728, d. 26 Feb 1814. They had eight sons: Jonathan, Peter,
James, John, Abraham, Isaac, Elijah, Monmouth Hart; and three daughters: Sarah, b. 25 Apr 1751, d. 15 Jul 1808, m. Bartholomew
Hadden; Dinah, b. 7 May 1757, m. Peter Knapp; and Anna, b. 12 Jan 1760, married Silas Knapp.
----
http://www.penfield.fm/notables.html
Nathaniel Penfield b. 19 Mar 1758, Fairfield, CT; d. 22 Mar 1810, Rye, NY, age: 52; m. 24 Feb 1782, Fairfield, CT, Rachel
Marquand, b. ca 1765, Fairfield, CT; d. 17 Feb 1841, age: 76. He kept a popular inn in Rye, NY, on the mail coach line between
New York City and New Haven. Notables were entertained there after the Revolution. Son of Lt. Samuel M. Penfield and Elizabeth
Lewis, who kept the Sun Tavern in Fairfield, CT, where Washington, Adams, and Lafayette were often guests.
Children:
Henry Lewis Penfield b. 19 Feb 1784, Fairfield, CT; d. 15 Nov 1863, Rye, NY.
Josiah Penfield b. 06 Jun 1785, Fairfield, CT; d. 12 Sep 1828, Rye, NY,
Robert Penfield b. 1789.
http://archiver.rootsweb.ancestry.com/th/read/WETMORE/2002-04/1018663403
51

THE OLD HAVILAND [PENFIELD] INN, RYE, NY.
This ancient mansion, a noted tavern, or place of entertainment, in olden times, was as early as 1731 the homestead of Peter
Brown. After his death it passed into the possession of Rev. James Wetmore, Rector of the Parish of Rye. In 1763 it was the
residence of his son Timothy Wetmore, who married Jane Haviland. As early as 1770 Dr. Ebenezer Haviland, brother-in-law of
Timothy Wetmore, and afterward a surgeon in the Revolution, kept this tavern. During the war it was kept by Jonathan Wright, but it
reverted to Mrs. Tamar Haviland, widow of the doctor. Gen. Washington in his diary thus alludes to it: "Thursday Oct. 15, 1789. After
dinner through frequent light showers, we proceeded to the Tavern of a Mrs. Haviland at Rye; who keeps a very neat and decent
Inn." His next stopping place was at the tavern of one Webb in Stamford. The General describes it as "a tolerable good house, but
not equal in appearance and reality, to Mrs. Haviland's." In 1774 John Adams stopped here on his way from Boston to New York.
Widow Haviland was succeeded by Peter Quintard, who was landlord in 1797. In 1801 the house passed into the hands of
Nathaniel Penfield, and at his death, in 1810, fell to his son Henry L. Penfield. The hotel was a noted stopping place on the Boston
road, in the days of stages, and among its guests was Gen. Lafayette in 1824. It ceased to be an Inn about 1830, and in 1835 it was
sold to David H. Mead . . .
http://www.ebooksread.com/authors-eng/john-henry-hobart/the-correspondence-of-john-henry-hobart-volume-2-abo/page-24-.shtml
VOLUME II - THE CORRESPONDENCE OF JOHN HENRY HOBART, 1798-1801
Nathaniel was described as “a man of most courtly manners and unblemished character. He was an active member of Christ
Church, a member of the vestry, and placed on important committees. On May 28, 1800, he was chosen with Mr. Rogers [Rev.
Evan Rogers - q.v.]] "to set out around the Church as many forest trees of different kinds as they think proper." In 1813 he was
appointed to adjust and receive the sum due for damages to the glebe by the laying out of a new turnpike through it. He died in
1810. His son, Henry L. Penfield, continued the business until 1867.”
Ibid.
David Rogers [Jr.] belonged to a well-known family of Fairfield County, CT, who traced their descent from John Rogers, the martyr.
He studied medicine with his father, Dr. David Rogers, a physician of much skill, and settled in Mamaroneck. He had a large
practice and was successful in his treatment of disease. For many years he was a member of the vestry of Christ Church, Rye. In
1820 he removed to New York City, where he died about 1840. He left two sons, David L. and James, who became a well-known
physician. [A letter of ] John Guion of May 1, 1813, . . . shows that Dr. Rogers had then become an active Churchman.
----
http://books.google.com/books?id=qXsVAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA170&lpg=PA170&dq=%22benjamin+rockwell%22+%22rye%22&source
=bl&ots=diCjXB-tyr&sig=W6mRx1FyxbSyoGpBybQ9tCuz6Eo&hl=en&ei=TZDnTdSVF-
T30gGm3M3oCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CBkQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=%22benjamin%20rockwell%2
2%20%22rye%22&f=false page 170.
Dr. Benjamin Rockwell commenced practice in Saw Pit, now Port Chester, about the year 1809. He was born in Lewisboro or
South Salem, NY, about 1786, and was a son of Judge Nathan Rockwell of that place. Dr. Rockwell practiced medicine here for
twelve or fifteen years, and was regarded as a very skilful physician. He removed to the city of New York, and died there a few years
ago. He had a son William, who was also a physician.
Washington Lodge No. 141, Stephentown [Somers], New York
Petition: 5 May 1806, signed by:
Ambler, Samuel
Brown, Isaac Jr.
Crawford, Caleb
Frost, Niles
Glover, Andrew
Green, William
Higgins, Michael
Holmes, Absalom
Jones, Daniel
June, Zabud
Kenicut, John
Northrop, Jacob
Osburn, Ozias
Sanford, Zalmon
Snuke, Edward
Sword, James
Recommended by: Hiram Lodge No. 72, Mount Pleasant, 25 Aug 1806, and Salem Lodge No. 74, 29 May 1806.
Warrant: 3 Sep 1806
Weed, Jessy
Wright, Micojah [?]
52

Officers: Darius Crosby, Master; Abijah Crissy, SW; Joshua Turner, JW
1817 "ceased to work"
Surrendered: 4 Jun 1818
Rising Star Lodge No. 142, Yonkers, New York
Warrant: 22 Jun 1851
Prev. No. 393; forfeit 1831; revived as No. 142, 22 Jun 1851; renumbered No. 450, 7 Jun 1858
Westchester Lodge No. 180, Ossining / Sing Sing, New York
Warrant: 5 Oct 1850
The Westchester Lodge came to be part of Collabergh Lodge No. 859 of Croton-on-Hudson, NY,
Masonic Register of 1855
Saml. C. Nichols, Master,
I. M. Smith, SW,
Geo. J. Barlow, JW,
Wm. O. Mills, Treas.
PAST MASTERS.
Benjamin Brandreth, S. F. Reynolds, S. C. Nichols,
MEMBERS.
Henry W. Ambler,
James H. Ashton,
John A. Aitchison
Saml. Anderson,
Stephen Ayles,
John Barlow
Isaac Birdsall,
Geo. A. Brandreth,
Jacob T. Cocks,
Isaac V. Doolittle,
D. D. Edwards,
Charles Gilbert,
John P. Jenkins,
Robert Lent,
From the Grand Lodge Proceedings, 1909:
MINUTES: Not intact.
WESTCHESTER LODGE, NO. 180.
Sing Sing, Westchester County.
Date of Charter, October, 1850.
Meets on the Second and Fourth Thursdays of the month.
Thomas Smull, Secy,
Isaac Still, Jr., SD,
James Locke, JD,
Edward Van Wart, MC,
M. J. Lockwood,
J. C. Lyman,
Thos. Mapelsden.
Martin Marclay,
Joseph Mully,
G. W. Paulding,
Wm. Pike,
Reuben Quimby,
R. A. Robinson,
Hiram P. Rowel,
John Russell,
Benj. See,
Wm. M. Skinner,
Saml. S. Smith,
Robert Lent, MC,
Nicholas O'Brien, Jr., Tiler.
Geo. E. Stanton,
Gardner Van Wyck,
Alfred Walker,
Alex. H. Wells,
Geo. Williamson,
Cortland Wood,
There are no existing records relating to the organization of Westchester Lodge previous to the granting of a dispensation by M.'.
W.'. WILLIAM H. MILNOR, October 2, 1850.
The charter members were:
Benjamin Brandreth.
Charles Yoe.
Samuel C. Nichols.
John Russell.
William Campbell.
Samuel F. Reynolds.
The officers named in the dispensation were:
BENJAMIN BRANDRETH, Master.
HIRAM P. ROWELL, Senior Warden.
SAMUEL C. NICHOLS, Junior Warden.
R. A. Robinson.
W. F. Purdy.
William M. Skinner.
Hiram P. Rowell.
James Locke.
Martin Marclay.
The first meeting after the dispensation had been granted was held in Odd Fellows Hall on October 5, 1850. R.'. W.'. JAMES W.
POWELL, Grand Secretary, presided at the opening, assisted by Hiram P. Rowell as Senior Warden and Samuel C. Nichols as
Junior Warden.
The record of this meeting says: “The Lodge opened in due form in the E.A. degree for instruction, after which it was duly closed in
said degree and opened in the degree of M. M., Wor. Master Brandreth in the East.”
At this meeting William M. Skinner was elected Secretary, Samuel F. Reynolds was elected Treasurer, a committee was appointed
to prepare a code of By-laws and a petition for membership was received from G. E. Stanton. Before the Lodge closed the following
resolution was adopted:
"Resolved, That Westchester Lodge meet in this place next Saturday evening, 12th inst., at 7 o'clock precisely."
At the next meeting, held October 12th, a petition for membership was received from Benjamin See, and it was resolved, that in
case he is accepted, "He be permitted to pay his initiation fee by acting as Tiler at the rate of fifty cents per night."
53

It was also resolved, "That every officer who shall be absent fifteen minutes after the time of opening this Lodge at any
communication thereof shall be fined fifty cents." This action did not appear to have given satisfaction, as on October 31st the
resolution was rescinded.
Benjamin See was raised at the same meeting, he being the first candidate raised by the Lodge, and was immediately appointed
Tiler.
On November 21, 1850, a contract was entered into with Ossining Lodge I. O. O. F. for the occupancy of its quarters for a period of
one year, heat and light to be furnished by Ossining Lodge. The sum to be paid was $30.
The first code of By-laws were adopted at this meeting and Hiram P. Rowell was appointed to have them engrossed.
Nine meetings were held while working under dispensation, the last being held November 28, 1850.
At a session of the Grand Lodge held on 3 Dec 1850, five warrants were granted, one of them to "Westchester Lodge, No. 180."
The officers named in the warrant were:
BENJAMIN BRANDRETH, Master.
HIRAM P. ROWELL, Senior Warden.
SAMUEL C. NICHOLS, Junior Warden.
The other officers selected were:
SAMUEL F. REYNOLDS. Treasurer.
WILLIAM M. SKINNER, Secretary.
JAMES LOCKE, Senior Deacon.
R. A. RORINSON, Junior Deacon.
MARTIN MARCLAY, Master of Ceremonies.
JOHN RUSSELL, Master of Ceremonies.
BENJAMIN SEE, Tiler.
The Lodge has made but few changes in its meeting places and is now located in its own building. This property was purchased
several years ago and has proved a profitable investment for the Lodge.
The most prominent member of the Lodge is W.’. Thomas Leary, who had been a member nearly fifty years and is still an active and
energetic worker in the Lodge. He served as Master in 1870-71 and again in 1904. He also gained distinction in public life, serving
as Supervisor two years, President of the village of Sing Sing (now Ossining) two terms, was a Trustee of the village several years
and has been a magistrate of the town of Ossining for about sixteen years. He is the senior life member of the Lodge.
At the time Westchester Lodge was organized another Lodge existed at Sing Sing (now Ossining) by the name of Zeredatha. This
Lodge was organized in 1849 under the jurisdiction of St. John's Grand Lodge, and was No. 21 on its register. At the great Union
meeting of December 27, 1850, it received a new warrant and became No. 200 on the register of the Grand Lodge of the State of
New York.
The officers named in the new warrant were:
GEORGE R. BEEKMAN, Master.
PETER DAVIS, Senior Warden.
JOHN LENT, Junior Warden.
This Lodge had but a fitful and uneventful life. It ceased to work in 1853 and many of its members affiliated in Westchester Lodge.
Its warrant was declared forfeited by the Grand Lodge in 1854.
GRAND LODGE OFFICERS
Isaac B. Noxon, District Deputy Grand Master. Robert M. Lawrence, District Deputy Grand Master.
1850. Benjamin Brandreth.
1851. Benjamin Brandreth.
1852. Samuel C. Nichols.
1853. Samuel C. Nichols.
1854. Samuel F. Reynolds.
1855. Samuel C. Nichols.
1856. J. Malcolm Smith.
1857. J. Malcolm Smith.
1858. Samuel C. Nichols.
1859. Samuel C. Nichols.
1860. Samuel C. Nichols.
1861. George J. Barlow.
1862. Lyman Perrigo.
1863. Charles H. Cummings.
1864. Charles H. Cummings.
1865. J. Holl[e]y Platt.
1866. Charles H. Cummings.
1867. N. O'Brien, Jr.
1868. N. O'Brien, Jr.
1869. N. O'Brien, Jr.
MASTERS
1870. Thomas Leary.
1871. Thomas Leary.
1872. Robert M. Lawrence.
1873. Robert M. Lawrence.
1874. James H. Coleman.
1875. James H. Coleman.
1876. Isaac Terwilliger.
1877. Isaac Terwilliger.
1878. J. Wesley Lessee.
1879. J. Wesley Lessee.
1880. Andrew Finnigan.
1881. Eugene Hall.
1882. Isaac B. Noxon.
1883. Isaac B. Noxon.
1884. Robert M. Lawrence.
1885. Smith Lent.
1886. Smith Lent.
1887. James H. Coleman.
1888. James H. Truesdale.
1889. Peter J. Keenan.
Jacob T. Cox, Livery Stable, Sing Sing. Westchester Lodge, No. 180.
Thomas Maplesden, Mason, Sing Sing. Westchester Lodge, No. 180.
1890. Peter J. Keenan.
1891. Jasper W. Travis.
1892. John Griffin.
1893. Charles E. Gratton.
1894. Charles E. Gratton.
1895. Frank N. Wells.
1896. Frank N. Wells.
1897. Romine Williams.
1898. Romine Williams.
1899. John Griffin.
1900. Rollin B. Vose.
1901. Everett A. Barlow.
1902. Charles E. Rice, Jr.
1903. Fred B. Horton.
1904. Thomas Leary.
1905. Amos C. Squire.
1906. Thomas G. Barnes.
1907. Arthur Brown.
1908. Daniel D. Tompkins.
1909. Herbert J. Childs.
54

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benjamin_Brandreth
Benjamin Brandreth (1807-1880) was a pioneer in the early use of mass advertising to build
consumer awareness of his product, a purgative that allegedly cured many ills by purging
toxins out of the blood. He became a successful and wealthy businessman, bank president,
and New York State Senator.
Brandreth was born in Leeds, England, on 23 June, 1807, the son of William Holmes (1775-
1809) and Ann Brandreth Holmes (1785-1877). His father abandoned the family while
Benjamin was young and he was raised by his mother and maternal grandfather William
Brandreth, whose surname he adopted. He emigrated to the United States in 1835 with his
three children shortly after the death of his first wife, Harriet Smallpage, hoping to find a
bigger market than he had in England for his “Vegetable Universal Pill” invented by his
grandfather, William Brandreth. The formula was a powerful cathartic and played off the
popular notion that impurity of the blood was the source of many ills. Establishing himself on
Hudson Street in New York City, Brandreth eventually found success marketing his pills
prompting a move to a larger facility which he built in Sing Sing, (later Ossining (village), NY)
in 1838. Brandreth was a pioneer in using the then-infant technique of mass advertising in
building brand awareness to create a mass market for his product. Brandreth created and
published a wide variety of advertising material for his pills, including a 224 page tome entitled The Doctrine of Purgation, Curiosities
from Ancient and Modern Literature, from Hippocrates and Other Medical Writers. His advertising copy had a distinctly literary flavor
which found favor with the public. Brandreth widely distributed his books and pamphlets throughout the country as well as taking
copious advertising space in newspapers. Eventually his pills became one of the best selling patent medicines in the United
States“…A congressional committee in 1849 reported that Brandreth was the nation’s largest proprietary advertiser… Between 1862
and 1863 Brandreth’s average annual gross income surpassed $600,000…” For fifty years Brandreth’s name was a household word
in the United States Indeed, the Brandreth pills were so well known they received mention in Herman Melville’s classic Moby Dick.
A prominent businessman, Brandreth was among the original founders and was the first President of the Westchester County
Savings Bank in Tarrytown, NY. The bank was incorporated on 21 July 1853 and was merged into Federal First Fidelity Bank on 30
December 1993. In 1857 he built the Brandreth Hotel near Canal and Broadway in New York City.
In 1851 Brandreth bought 26,000 acres in the Adirondacks for 15 cents an acre, establishing the first private preserve in the
Adirondack Park becoming known as “Brandreth Park”. The Park remains in the family today and incorporates a number of cabins
and cottages in a preserved wilderness setting.
Brandreth was a prominent Democrat in Westchester County and represented the district in the New York State Senate from 1849
to 1853. He was active in civic development in Sing Sing, (later Ossining). He was
an early subscriber to the fundraising effort to build the Trinity Church in that town.
He was one of the founders of the New York Eclectic Medical College, which he
supported financially throughout his life. He was active in the Masons who took
charge of his funeral with full honors.
Grave marker of Benjamin and Virginia Brandreth at the Dale Cemetery in
Ossining, NY as it appeared in November, 2008
Brandreth was married three times; first to Susan Leeds from whom he was
divorced a few months after the marriage. His second wife was Harriet Smallpage
to whom he was married 7 years until her death, and third to Virginia Graham. He
had 3 children with his second wife and 10 with his third. He is the greatgrandfather
of Gyles Brandreth. Brandreth died on 22 February 1880.
"That morning he had risen early, reaching the plant, with his eldest son, at sixthirty.
He had worked an hour or so in the mixing room. Then came a stroke of
apoplexy and death. Thus, at the end as at the launching of his venture in America,
Brandreth was mixing the purgative in which he so fervently believed."
The impact Brandreth had on the local community of Sing Sing was noted by the
account in the New York Times which stated that at the time of his death:
“…flags have been hung at half-mast there and on Saturday all the business places
of the village, including the bank, Post Office, Soldiers’ monument, and several
hotels, together with innumerable private dwellings, we draped in mourning.
Brandreth's funeral was held at the Trinity Church which could hold only a fraction of the
mourners in attendance. Others lined the streets to the Dale Cemetery where he was
buried. His body was in a wrought metal and bronze casket hermetically sealed with a full
length plate glass top. The procession to the cemetery included carriages for the clergymen
and pallbearers, the 16th Battalion brass band, the hearse with a bodyguard of 8 Masonic
knights, and carriages for 150 friends and family, stretching out over a mile.
Brandreth Park was the first private preserve in the future Adirondack Park. Included on the
property is 890-acre "Brandreth Lake" (northwest of Raquette Lake). Consequently,
Hamilton County is one of the least densely populated counties in the eastern United
States. The property is mountainous and heavily forested.
55

The Park remains in the family today and incorporates a number of cabins and cottages in a preserved wilderness setting.
According to Adirondack Life Magazine, Dr Brandreth commissioned a certain Mr. Blanchard to find him a lake at the top of the
watershed, because he didn't want any water flowing into his lake. Blanchard found Township 39 and today the lake is known as
Brandreth Lake. Dr Brandreth lost the property in 1873 for failing to pay taxes, but his wife bought it at State auction for $5,091.
Currently the property contains 12,500 acres (51 km 2 ) and is owned by 90 of Dr. Brandreth's descendants. At one point the
Adirondacks contained 45 such private estates, but as of 2000 only four remained and Brandreth's is the oldest.
Upon Brandreth's death in 1880 the property was eligible to be inherited by six of his children. Two of his sons, Franklin and Ralph
Brandreth, and his son-in-law, General Edwin A. McAlpin purchased the interests of the other children and consolidated ownership
in their hands, and those of their heirs.
http://www.meaningfulfunerals.net/fh/print.cfm?type=obituary&o_id=746038&fh_id=12030&s_id=0D1BF469-F3A2-E642-
FAAD48F740B482EF
Thomas Neil Morris, 94, of 27 Otis St., Lancaster, MA, died Tuesday, 9 Nov 2010 in Sunrise Assisted Living, Leominster, after an
illness. He leaves his wife of 63 years, Annette S. (Hamilton) Morris; two nephews: John B. Morris of West Sand Lake, NY and
Joseph L. Morris of Morrisonville, NY; and many dear friends. Two brothers, John and Griffith Morris, and a sister, Ann Morris,
predeceased him.
Thomas was born and raised in Poultney, VT, the son of William G. and Janet Morris. He was a graduate of Troy Conference
Academy, Class of 1934, and Green Mountain College, Class of 1936. A US Army veteran of WWII, Thomas served with the
Transportation Corps at Fort Devens, MA, and in LeHarve, France. He was a member of Morning Star Lodge, No. 37, F. & A. M.
of Poultney, VT, for 50 years, and the American Legion.
While residing in Ossining, NY, he was employed for 38 years by the New York Central Railroad, retiring in 1976 as the Commuter
Relations Manager of the Metropolitan Region, located in Grand Central Terminal. As a resident of Ossining, Thomas was a
member of the Ossining Auxiliary Police and was a charter member of the Ossining Volunteer Ambulance Corps. During his 25
years with the Ambulance Corps, he served as a riding member and on its Board of Directors. In addition, he was a member and
Past Master of Westchester Lodge No. 180, F. & A.M. The Westchester Lodge came to be part of Collabergh Lodge No. 859
of Croton-on-Hudson, NY, of which he was also a member.
Upon his retirement in 1976, Thomas and his wife, Annette, relocated to Lancaster, MA. There, he served on the Lancaster
Conservation Commission, Thayer Field Commission, Affordable Housing, Forest Committee, Town Emergency Committee, and as
an Election official. In addition, he served for many years on the Green Mountain College Alumni Association Board of Directors. An
ardent golfer, he was a long-time member of Oak Hill Country Club, Fitchburg. Burial was at North Village Cemetery, Lancaster, MA.
-----
www.archive.org/.../universalmasonic00hynerich_djvu.txt
Samuel C. Nichols, Merchant, Sing Sing. P. M. Westchester Lodge, No. 180; Initiated in Richmond Randolph Lodge, No. 19, and
exalted in Richmond Chapter, No. 3, Virginia, District Deputy Grand Master, District No. 2, N. Y.
-----
http://genforum.genealogy.com/tompkins/messages/309.html
Westchester Co., Vol. 111, pg 185:
DANIEL D[owning]. TOMPKINS: " So many of the interests of the social, the business, and the fraternal life of his native village
make their demands upon the attention and counsel of Mr. Tompkins that he may well be said to be "part of all that he has met",
while his greatest concern is that of being helpfully active in and for the organizations he represents. He is cashier of the First
National Bank of Ossining, and now rounding out twenty-seven years with that institution, of which he is an efficient official. This
qualification may be claimed as to his participation in the work and progress of many other institutions and societies of which he is a
member. He is the son of J. Arthur and Sarah Large (Baker) Tompkins. His father now retired from active business, was connected
with the American News Company, in New York City; he was a veteran of the Civil War and served with the 6th NY Heavy Artillery.
Mr. Tompkins, the son was born at Ossining, NY, 6 May 1875 and attended the public and high schools there, graduating at the
latter with the class of 1891. He was a student at the Mount Pleasant Military Academy in 1892 & 1893, matriculating at the New
York University, he graduated there in 1897 with the degree Bachelor of Science. Entering the employ of the National Bank at
Ossining in the year of his graduation at the university, 1897, Mr. Tompkins has satisfactory filled all the positions up to that of
cashier. His civic affiliations are many and diversified. He was village trustee from 1914-1916, and president of the village from
1916-1920, and a member of its Board of Education for more than fifteen years. He is a trustee and the treasurer of the Dale
Cemetery Association, and is now secretary and treasurer of the Library Board, of which he is also has been a member for fifteen
years. A member of the Fire Commission, he is treasurer of the department, and also a volunteer fireman; he is a member of the
social organization that is known as the Ossining Steamer Company, Incorporated. His college membership is with Phi Beta Kappa
and the Phi Gamma Delta fraternities. Mr Tompkins is affiliated with the Free and Accepted Masons, and is a trustee of the Masonic
Hall Association; he is Past Master of Westchester Lodge No 180; a member of Buckingham Chapter No. 174, Royal Arch
Masons; treasurer of Westchester Commandery No. 42, Knights Templar; a member of Peekskill Council No 55, Royal and Select
Masters. He is a member of the Eastern Star, and Past Regent and District Deputy of the Royal Arcanum, a member of the Royal
Order of Moose, the Fraternal Order of Eagles, and of Van Cortlandt Camp, Sons of Veterans. He is communicant and a warden of
St. Paul's Episcopal Church. Mr. Tompkins married, at Ossining, in June 1900 Mary Cartwright Swain, a grandaughter of General
James B. Swain, a colonel of "Scott's 900" during the Civil War, and also literary associate of General Horace Greeley. Their three
children are Daniel Downing Tompkins Jr.; Theodore Swain Tompkins and Florence Elizabeth Tompkins.
----
56

“Year book of the Holland Society of New-York, by Holland Society of New York,” 1918. page 181.
http://books.google.com/books?id=lccWAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA182&dq=%22Westchester+Lodge+No.+180%22&hl=en&ei=dEzoTaCjHI
ndgQeWkc2rAQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=4&ved=0CDgQ6AEwAw#v=onepage&q=%22Westchester%20Lodge%2
0No.%20180%22&f=false
JAMES STEVENSON VAN CORTLANDT – b. 28 Feb 1844; d. 28 Apr 1917.
Captain James Stevenson Van Cortlandt died on Saturday morning, April 28, 1917, at the Van Cortlandt Manor House at Crotonon-Hudson,
NY, which has been the home of his family for six generations, having been built about 1681 by his great-great
grandfather, Stephanus Van Cortlandt, first and only Lord of the Manor of Cortlandt and the first native born Mayor of the City of
New York. Except the office of Governor itself, Stephanus Van Cortlandt filled at one time or another every prominent office in the
Province of New York. The Manor House has been occupied in succession from the death of the Lord of the Manor in line of
succession, as follows: Philip Van Cortlandt, Councillor of the Province; Pierre Van Cortlandt, Lieutenant-Governor; Pierre Van
Cortlandt, Major-General; Pierre Van Cortlandt, Colonel, and James Stevenson Van Cortlandt, Captain.
Captain Van Cortlandt was the last of his name in the male line—a name honored always for distinguished service rendered their
country by those who bore it. He was born at the Manor House in 1844 and lived there all his life. At the outbreak of the Civil War
and at the age of eighteen, he quit school and was commissioned as lieutenant in the 155th New York Infantry and assigned as
aide-de-camp upon the staff of General Michael Corcoran. As such he was engaged in fifteen battles in Virginia, namely, Deserted
House, Siege of Suffolk, Eddeton Road, Carreville, Landrow House, North Anna River, Totopotomy Creek, Cold Harbor,
Petersburgh, Welden Railroad, Deep Bottom, Strawberry Plain, Reams Station, Spottsylvania Court House and Boyd ton Plank
Road. In 1864 he was commissioned as first lieutenant in the 22nd New York Cavalry, and subsequently as captain. With this
regiment he was engaged at Nineveh, Roods Hill, Moorefield Pike, Dacy Springs, Holly Springs, Reeds Hill (second engagement)
and New Market. In August 1865 he was mustered out of service with his regiment at Winchester, VA. Upon his return home from
the war he became the active manager of the Van Cortlandt estate, and, except for a short period while he was engaged in the
manufacture of brick, continued as such up to the time of his death, giving much attention to the raising of prize-winning poultry. He
was a member of the Society of the Cincinnati, The Holland Society of New York, the Huguenot Society, Society of Descendants of
Lords of Manors and of Westchester Lodge No. 180, F&AM. Two sisters survived him—Mrs. John Rutherford Matthews and Miss
Anne Stevenson Van Cortlandt. His funeral services took place at the Manor House on Monday afternoon, 30 Apr 1917, the Rev.
Gibson W. Harris of Trinity Protestant Episcopal Church of Ossining officiating and only the immediate family being present.
Interment was at Hillside Cemetery, Peekskill, NY.
VAN CORTLANDT, JAMES S. - Age 19 years. Enrolled [155th NY Inf. Vols.] at New York city, to serve three years, and mustered in
as 2Lt, Co. G, 7 Oct 1862; discharged, 31 Oct 1864, for promotion to 1Lt, Co. E, 22nd Cavalry. Commissioned 2Lt, 5 Dec 1862, with
rank from 8 Nov 1862, original.
VAN CORTLAND, JAMES S. - Age 21 years. Enrolled [22nd NY Cav.], 1 Jan 1, 1865, at Winchester, VA; mustered in as 1Lt, Co. E,
to date 1 Jan 1865, to serve three years; mustered out with company, 1 Aug 1805, at Winchester, VA; prior service, in Co. G, 155fth
NY Infantry Volunteers. Commissioned 1Lt, 25 Aug, 1864, with rank from 23 Aug 1804, vice Lusk, promoted; captain, 18 Sep 1805,
with rank from 31 Aug 1865, vice Vaughn, discharged; not mustered.
----
1891 F.W. Beers map showing the location of the Van Cortlandt's Croton Brick Company
57

http://voses.info/robertvos/pafn78.htm
Rollin Burton Vose (Franklin , Samuel , Roger , Samuel , Robert , Henry , Thomas , Robert ) b. 17 Jul 1853 Albany, NY; d. 8 Apr
1924 in Brooklyn, NY; m. 23 Jun 1886 in New Baltimore, NY, Anna Josephine Trego, b. 15 Apr 1850 in New York City, d/o James
Trego and Maria Houghtaling. Child: James Trego Vose was born on 27 Jun 1887 in Sing Sing(now Ossining), NY .
Rollin was educated in the public schools and the Normal School, now State Normal College of Albany, and at the age of eighteen
entered the office of the Secretary of State as clerk. He also held a clerkship in the State Legislature alongside Col. Daniel S.
Lamont, subsequently the Secretary of War. For a time he was a clerk in a broker's office, but delicate health necessitated a
change, and he entered out-of-door employment. He took up Public Works as a business, passing through the different grades in
the Engineer Corps to the position of Superintendent of Dam Construction on the New Croton Dam, the largest and best known
piece of work of its kind in the world. He was connected with the Aqueduct Commission of New York City for sixteen or more years;
with the construction of the New Croton Aqueduct; the Titicut Dam at Purdys, NY; the Pennsylvania R.R.; Lehigh Valley R.R.; West
Shore R.R.; Baltimore Tunnel, Baltimore, MD, and other roads. He served sixteen years in the 23rd Reg. National Guards of New
York State. He was Past Master of Westchester Lodge, No. 180 F&AM; member of Council 1486 Royal Arcanum, and an active
member of the Fire Department, all of Ossining.
“Remarks on some Masonic Book Plates in America and their owners, Volume 2,” by Alexander Winthrop Pope, page 36.
http://books.google.com/books?id=RUMDAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA36&dq=%22Westchester+Lodge+No.+180%22&hl=en&ei=lkLoTfOPN
unL0QHPmOCaAQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CDsQ6AEwAg#v=onepage&q=%22Westchester%20Lodge
%20No.%20180%22&f=false
George Williamson was born in Utica, New York, June 3, 1827. He passed out of this life, August 13, 1886.
He was initiated into Free Masonry in 1853, and became a member of Westchester Lodge No. 180, Sing Sing (now Ossining), NY.
Between that time and 1871, he became a member of Buckingham Chapter, No. 174, of King Solomon Council No. 31, and a Knight
Templar in Westchester Commandery No. 42. In 1882, he was admitted a Masonic Veteran.
Brother Williamson, without the advantage of a college education, was considered one of the ripest scholars in bibliography and
history in his section of the country. His library, while not large, contained many rare and curious works, for he was ever on the
lookout for such. An old book-shop was a treasure house to him. He was an authority on first editions, autograph copies, etc.
The Masonic part of his treasures numbered about five hundred volumes. He adopted a Masonic bookplate described as follows:
A key-stone on which is a circle inscribed with eight Hebrew characters, apparently the equivalent of the Roman letters used in
Mark Lodges in the United States. Within the circle is an open book on which are the letters S S T, probably the "Mark" of George
Williamson, Sing Sing, NY, whose name above and residence below the circle show its ownership. Above the ring of the key-stone
is the motto "Sua cuique Voluptas" signifying each one has his own pleasure.
Armour Lodge No. 186, Port Chester, New York
Warrant: 27 Dec 1850
Prev. Amour No. 6, St. John's GL
ARMOUR LODGE, NO. 186.
Port Chester, Westchester Co.
Date of Charter, December 21th, 5850.
Meets on the First and Third Wednesdays of each month.
58

Solomon’s Lodge No. 196, Tarrytown, New York
Warrant: 27 Dec 1850
Prev. No. 209, 13 Nov 1812 of White Plains.
Removed to Tarrytown in 1821
'Ceased to operate' 7 Jun 1833
Revived as Solomon's 18, 15 Feb 1849, St. John's GL
Returned to GLNY as No. 196, 27 Dec 1850
Masonic Register – 155
James W. Scribncr, Master,
Gabriel L. Purdy, SW,
Nathaniel H. Odell, JW,
Abraham S. Leonard, Secy,
PAST MASTERS.
Stephen P. York, Leonard M. Clark.
Abraham S. Leonard, Marvin Onderdonk,"
MEMBERS.
Sylvester Acker,
Wm. Barnes,
Abraham Bishop.
George R. Brown,
Francis Core,
Thomas Dean,
George Gandell,
Patterson R. Hart,
Henry Lavender,
Jorden D. Lord,
SOLOMON'S LODGE, NO. 196.
Tarry Town, Westchester Co.
Meets on Thursday of each week.
Date of Charter, December 27th, A. L. 5850.
Isaac Buckhout, Treas,
George Heath, SD,
David Henderson, JD,
Jacob B. Odell, Steward,
Zeredatha Lodge No. 200, Sing Sing, New York
Warrant: 27 Dec 1850
Previous No. 21 in the St. John’s GL; forfeit 1854
M. W. H. Martin,
John McFadden,
Jacob Odell,
Samuel Requa,
Ward Carpenter, Seward,
Charles J. Brewer, Tiler.
George Schard,
D. M. Sillick,
Steuben P. Swartwout.
N. O. Tompkins,
R. B. Westerfield,
Solomon’s Lodge No. 209, White Plains, New York [see also Solomon’s Lodge No. 196 above]
Warrant: 13 Nov 1812
removed to Greenburgh in 1821; forfeit 7 Jun 1833; revived as Solomon's 18, 15 Feb 1849, St. John's GL; returned to GLNY as No.
196, 27 Dec 1850
59

Bedford Lodge No. 382, Bedford, New York
Warrant: 18 Apr 1825
Rising Sun Lodge No. 393, Yonkers, New York
Warrant: 6 Sep 1826
Rising Star Lodge No. 393, Yonkers, New York
Warrant: 26 Oct 1826
Surrendered 1831; revived as No. 142, 22 Jan 1851; renumbered No. 450, 7 Jun 1858
Ionic Lodge No. ???, White Plains, New York
First Meeting: 1 Feb 1853
. . . From then until 1852, there is no record of Masonry in White Plains. In that year a petition was presented to Grand Lodge asking
for a charter for White Plains Lodge. Favorable consideration was recommended by Armour Lodge No. 186 of Port Chester.
However, some of the petitioners were dissatisfied with the name and asked that it be changed to Oriental Lodge. With the
concurrence of Armour Lodge, a new petition was presented in January, 1853. For some unknown reason, the charter was
endorsed Ionic. Little is known of Ionic Lodge *, except that meetings were held on February 1 and 15 and March 1 and 15 of 1853
and that two members were elected and initiated.
http://books.google.com/books?id=EkgVAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA739&lpg=PA739&dq=%22White+Plains+Lodge+No.+473%22&
source=bl&ots=hSN3c28aik&sig=FINFw5p9Y5XZwI64eF7Dcm4xa5o&hl=en&ei=CDLsTbvFH4H2gAeVuzXCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=9&ved=0CEkQ6AEwCA#v=onepage&q=%22White%20Plains%20Lodge%
20No.%20473%22&f=false page 73
* THE IONIC LODGE was the first Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in White Plains. It was organized under a dispensation
from the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, and held its first meeting 1 Feb 1853. It never held but three or four
meetings. John P. Jenkins was Master; Elijah Guion, Senior Warden; and Lewis C. Piatt, Junior Warden.
Hiawatha Lodge No. 434, Mount Vernon, New York
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/masonicmuseum/hiawatha_434_perfume_bottle.htm
Silver Overlay Perfume Bottles
60

These beautifully handcrafted Perfume Bottles are made of blown green and cranberry glass with a fitted ground stopper then
overlaid with sterling silver to create the art nouveau design. They was made for Hiawatha Lodge No. 434 of Mount Vernon, New
York in 1913 and stand 3 1/2 inches tall. For their 100th Anniversary this Lodge commissioned another beautiful commemorative...
an ashtray with the likeness of Hiawatha wearing his feathered head-dress.
Native American Masonic Ashtray from Hiawatha Lodge No. 434
This beautiful ashtray commemorates the 100th Anniversary (1857-1957) of Hiawatha Lodge No. 434 of Mount Vernon, NY.
It measures 7 1/4" square and was made by the Salem China Company, USA.
61

http://www.ebooksread.com/authors-eng/george-t-george-toffey-davis/genealogy-of-the-descendants-of-col-john-davis-of-oxfordconn-formerly-a-pa-iva/page-17-genealogy-of-the-descendants-of-col-john-davis-of-oxford-conn-formerly-a-pa-iva.shtml
Capt. Franklin Truman Davis was born in Trumbull, CT, 5 Feb 1852, being the eldest son of Burr Davis and Mary J. Mallette.
While very young his father removed, first to New Rochelle, NY, then to Tuckahoe, NY, and later to Mount Vernon, NY. It was here
his father laid the foundation of tlie business of which he now is the head. As soon as his school days were over he entered his
father’s office and as soon as he was twenty-one became a member of the firm under the name of Burr Davis & Son, Undertakers
and Liverymen. During his leisure hours he studied electricity, and is was through his efforts that the telephone was installed in
Mount Vernon. In the days of the bicycle, he was an enthusiastic rider and is at present somewhat of an autoist. He has always
taken great interest in military matters, being at one time Capt. of Co. C, 3rd Regiment, N. G. S. N, Y., and later of Co, C, 27th
Regiment, N. G. S. N. Y., on the organization of Eagle Troop, E, Cavalry, N. G. S. N. Y., he was one of the first to sign the roll, and
was made 1st Sergeant, and remained with it five years until it was changed to an Infantry Co., by Gov Cornell.
A few years ago he was appointed Inspector of Rifle practice in the 10th Regiment, N. G. S. N. Y., with the rank of Captain. While
very many of the Davis family are members of the Masonic fratumity, none have stood higher in Masonic circles than he, being Past
Master of Hiawatha Lodge, No. 434, F&AM; Past District Deputy, 12th Masonic District; Honorary JNIember Radium Lodge No.
844, F&AM; Past Masters Association, 12th Masonic District, New York Masonic Veterans; Yonkers Masonic Veterans; Past High
Priest, Mount Vernon Chapter, No. 228, RAM; Honorary Member Armour Chapter No. 292, RAM; Past Grand Representative of
Grand Chapter of Connecticut; Fraternal Union of Anointed High Priests, P. T. I. M.; Phoenix Council No. 70, R&SM; Grand
Representative of Grand Council of Missouri; Past Commander Bethlehem Commandery No. 53, KT; Past Grand Representative of
Grand Commandery of Texas; Templar Knights Commander Association; Past Commander Association, Mecca Temple, AAONMS;
Azim Grotto No. 7, Veiled Prophets; Past Patron Minnehaha Chapter 227, OES, is also member of Mount Vernon Lodge, No. 842,
BPOE, and was a member of Golden Rod Council, No. 1316, Royal Arcanum.
After his fathers death the business was incorporated under the old name, which included two of his brothers, Edward M. and
Frederick A., and was made head of the firm which is now one of the largest in the County, and the livery branch being one of, if not,
the largest in the County of Westchester. Frank is very popular, but is in no sense a politician, having never sought a political office,
preferring to give his whole attention to business, devoting his leisure hours to his military and fraternal associations.
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_3_K_to_P.htm
Ossian Heerbert Lang (1865-1945) author of History of Freemasonry in. New York. b. in Bradford, England. He was a teacher,
newspaperman and lecturer. Served as superintendent of schools in Buffalo, NY. He was raised in Hiawatha Lodge No. 434,
Mount Vernon, NY, 19 May 1902, and later affiliated with John Steward Lodge No. 871, Mount Vernon, N.Y. d. 11 Sep 1945.
http://www.lakeharrietlodge.org/lhl277/MainMenu/Home/MasonicLibrary/TheBuilderMagazine/TheBuilderMagazineVolume3Number
12/tabid/198/Default.aspx
Ossian Lang was born 29 Oct 1865, of Scotch-English parentage, at Bradford, Yorkshire, England; educated in England, France
and Germany; editor of several prominent educational magazines, "The Social Center," New York City, 1912-1913, "The School
Journal," Teacher's Magazine, and "Educational Foundations," New York City, for twenty years, 1892-1912, "Young America," 1900-
1901, and contributing editor to "The Forum," 1902-1907; author of a number of educational biographies, pedagogical studies, and
story books for children; served as President, Board of Fire Commissioners of the city of Mount Vernon, N.Y., in 1910, Alderman,
1910-1912, President, Board of Aldermen, 1912-1914, President, Recreation Commission, 1915, President Board of Education,
1916; Master of John Stewart Lodge No. 871, F. and A. M., 1910 and 1911, District Deputy Grand Master, 12th Masonic District
of New York, 1911-1912; Grand Historian, Grand Lodge of New York since 1913; High Priest Mount Vernon Chapter No. 228, R. A.
M., 1906-1907; Grand Royal Arch Captain, Grand Chapter of New York, 1911; Master of Phoenix Council No. 70, R. and S M.,
1906-1907; Correspondent Grand Council of New York since 1913; Commander, Bethlehem Commandery No. 53, Knights Templar,
1907-1908; also active in Scottish Rite Bodies.
Pleasantville Hiawatha Lodge No. 434, Pleasantville, New York
Warrant:
http://www.pleasantvillehiawathalodge.com/index.php?p=1_4
Living Past Master – as of 2011
1958 W. C. Williams Coldwell 1978 V.W. James B. Tobin 1993 W. George Lari
1961 W. Donald G. Hoy 1979 W. Robert A. Mascetta 1994 W. George Lari
1965 W. Rolf E. Skoglund 1980 R.W. Richard E. Suneson 1995 R.W. Edward P. Fagan, Jr.
1966 W. Francis J. McRobie 1982 W. Kevin J. Russell 1995 R.W. Richard E. Suneson
1967 R.W. Ronald A. Fink 1982 R.W. Neil J. McCabe 1996 W. Jacob Bendel
1967 R.W. Raymond Hahn 1984 R.W. Russell J. Hoag 1997 W. Josephn Carella
1969 W. Robert J. Guerreri 1985 R.W. Edward P. Fagan, Jr. 1999 R.W. Richard E. Suneson
1970 R.W. Robert W. Bennett 1985 R.W. John C. Garnsey, Jr. 2000 R.W. John C Garnsey, Jr.
1970 W. Saul Horne 1985 R.W. Russell J. Hoag 2001 V.W. John M. Chaplin, Jr.
1971 W. John Fatich 1987 R.W. Ronald A. Fink 2002 V.W. John M. Chaplin, Jr.
1971 R.W. John C. Garnsey, Jr. 1989 R.W. G, Richard Atwood 2003 V.W. James B. Tobin
1971 R.W. Neil McCabe 1989 R.W. John C. Garnsey, Jr. 2004 V.W. James B. Tobin
1972 W. Louis R. Hahn 1989 R.W. Dmeter Yablonsky 2005 R.W. John C. Garnsey, Jr.
1973 W. Heinz G. Hublitz 1990 R.W. Dmeter Yablonsky 2006 R.W. John C Garnsey, Jr.
1974 W. John J. Bellom 1990 V.W. John M. Chaplin, Jr. 2007 R.W. Richard E. Suneson
1975 W. Lawrence F. Paulus 1990 R.W. John C. Garnsey, Jr. 2008 W. Edward Justiniano
62

1976 R.W. Edward P Fagan, Jr. 1991 W. Donald C. Clark 2009 W. Edward Justiniano
1977 W. Sune Engelbrektson 1991 W. Mario Pedrini 2010 R.W. John C Garnsey, Jr.
1978 W. Robert A. Mascetta 1993 R.W. Joel G. Engelbrektson
Charles Horton Vanderbuilt, PM
http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary-print.aspx?n=Bram-Heaslip&lc=4681&pid=150208279&mid=4628792
Bram P. Heaslip – b. 20 Oct 1934; d. 10 Apr 2011, age 76, of Clearwater formerly of Pleasantville, NY
passed away on 10 Apr 2011. He was born in Co. Cavan, Ireland. Bram was a manager for A&P
supermarkets for 40 years. He was a member of Pleasantville Hiawatha Lodge No. 434 for 45 years
and a Past Master. He received the Masonic Dedicated Service award 1997. He was also a member
of Queen Esther No. 4, O.E.S., and the Scottish American Society of Dunedin and served as Chaplain.
Bram attended Highland Presbyterian Church in Largo. He enjoyed gardening and fishing. He was
predeceased by his parents, George and Matilda Lindsay Heaslip. Survivors include his beloved wife of
50 years, Margaret Heaslip (Diver), his son Brian of Clearwater, daughter Joan Fama Montgomery, NY,
sisters Georgina Simpson and Laurel Watts, brother Nelson Heaslip, grandchildren James and
Matthew Fama. Masonic Service by Clearwater Lodge No. 127. Interment at Serenity Gardens
Memorial Park in Largo.
Huguenot Lodge No. 448, New Rochelle, New York
Warrant: 1858
Renumbered No. 46 in 1886; see Huguenot No. 46 above.
Grand Lodge Proceedings – 1886, page 192.
In the matter of Huguenot Lodge, No. 448, F. & A. M., Huguenot Lodge presents the following petition: "To the M.’. W.’. Grand
Master and Officers and Members of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York. Huguenot Lodge,
No. 448, F. & A. M., respectfully petition to be restored to their original number 46, and beg leave to refer to a statement annexed to
their petition which, they believe, fully supports their petition."
They allege that Westchester Lodge, No. 46, was the first lodge in Westchester County, and was granted a charter in 1796, and first
met in the village of Westchester on the evening of June 2, 1796. In December, 1797, by permission of the Grand Lodge, it was
moved to East Chester, and in 1799 it was allowed to hold alternate meetings in East Chester and White Plains; in 1802 the White
Plains meetings were discontinued. Until 1803, when Armour Lodge, No. 100, of Rye, was organized, the jurisdiction of Westchester
Lodge extended from Manhattan Island on the south to Sing Sing und the Connecticut line on the north, and frum Hudson River on
the west to Long Island Sound on the east. In 1815, the lodge was moved from East Chester to Now Rochelle, where it remained
until it disbanded in 1831. The lodge disposed of its hall and library which they owned, and the jewels, Bible and records were given
to Brother THOS. CARPENTER for safe-keeping, and it is supposed the charter was surrendered to the Grand Lodge. In 1854 an
application was made to the Grand Lodge for a warrant to organize another lodge in New Rochelle, which was granted and the new
lodge was called Westchester, No. 146, and the old jewels, Bible and records, etc., were delivered up. It remained under this name
until 1858, when it was found that there was a lodge by that name in Sing Sing, and a new warrant was issued and the lodge has
since been known as Huguenot, No. 448. There now appears to be another Huguenot Lodge, No. 381, on Staten Island. Every
mason made by Westchester, No. 16, Westchester, No. 146, and Huguenot, No. 448, has been obligated on the same Bible, a
really venerable looking book and is now used for that purpose only. The jewels worn by the officers of Huguenot Lodge, No. 448,
are the old jewels of Westchester Lodge, No. 16, and are engraved as follows:
Your committee ask the adoption of the following resolution:
Resolved, That the petition of Huguenot Lodge be granted.
Rising Star Lodge No. 450, Yonkers, New York
Warrant: 22 Jun 1851; date reconstituted as No. 142; number changed to No. 450 on 7 Jun 1858.
Prev. No. 393, 25 Oct 1826; surrendered 1831; revived and renumbered No. 142, 22 Jun 1851; renumbered 450, 7 Jun 1828;
merged with Hastings No. 1107 (warranted ca 1931) in 1989.
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_2_E_to_J.htm
Rudolph Eickemeyer (1831-1895) American inventor. b. in Altenbamberg, Bavaria, coming to the U.S. in 1850. He patented about
150 inventions including a hat-manufacturing machine that helped revolutionize that industry; a differential gear for mowing and
reaping machine in 1870; many electrical machines and devices, including the first symmetrical drum armature iron-clad dynamo,
direct-connected railway motor and others. He was the discoverer and first employer of Charles P. Steinmetz. Member of Rising
Star Lodge No. 450, Yonkers, NY.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Proteus_Steinmetz
Shortly after arriving in the US, Steinmetz went to work for Rudolf Eickemeyer in Yonkers, New York, and published in the field of
magnetic hysteresis. Eickemeyer's firm developed transformers for use in the transmission of electrical power among many other
mechanical and electrical devices. In 1893 Eickemeyer's company, along with all of his patents and designs, was bought by the
newly formed General Electric Company.
63

Hastings Rising Star Lodge No. 450, Tarrytown, New York
Warrant: 1989
Prev. No. 393, 25 Oct 1826; surrendered 1831; revived and renumbered No. 142, 22 Jun 1851; renumbered 450, 7 Jun 1828;
merged with Hastings No. 1107 (warranted ca 1931) in 1989.
Ref. A Masonic Portrait of the Empire State, 2002. Page 227.
Rising Star Lodge was constituted on 26 Oct 1826 at a time when the population of Yonkers numbered fewer than 1700. A few
dedicated Masons there decided to organize a Masonic Lodge. The only Lodge then existing in the vicinity of Yonkers was
Westchester Lodge, today’s Huguenot Lodge No. 46 in New Rochelle. A petition, including the recommendation from Westchester
Lodge, was read at Grand Lodge, and the next day a Warrant was issued. The new Lodge received No. 393. It is believed the
Lodge met at the Indian Queen in early days.
Yonkers’ best known tavern in 1813 was the Indian Queen Inn on the corner of what is now South Broadway and New Main
Street. By 1851 the building was removed to make way for the famous Getty House.
Getty House – 1852-1949
Built by Robert Parkhill Getty, father of Bro. Moses D. Getty of Nepperhan Lodge No. 736. [q.v.]
64

[ref. Biographical History of Westchester County, page 344. http://www.ebooksread.com/authors-eng/chicago-lewis-publishingcompany/biographical-history-of-westchester-county-new-york-volume-1-iwe/page-41-biographical-history-of-westchestercounty-new-york-volume-1-iwe.shtml
]
In 1831 interest in the Masonic Fraternity waned, the Lodge surrendered its Charter, and the Lodge slumbered until 1851. On 22
Jan 1851 the Lodge was constituted as No. 142. On 7 Jun 1858 the number was changed to No. 450. In those days the Lodge met
on “the Tuesday of the week the moon is full.”
Records show the Lodge had several meeting places in the ensuing years; the Getty House, the Flagg Building and the second floor
of the Yonkers Savings Bank, among them. On 8 Mar 1892 the Trustees of the Lodge recommended a site for a Masonic Building,
On the afternoon of 23 Sep 1916 Grand Master Thomas Penney laid the cornerstone of the Masonic Temple in Yonkers.
At the close of 1901 Lodge membership numbered about 300. This growth of the Lodge prompted the formation of new Lodges in
Yonkers, and Rising Star continued active. The 1,500th Stated Communication was celebrated 8 Oct 1912.
The Lodge prospered until the Great Depression slowed membership growth. But that period did no deter the enthusiasm of the
Masons in Hastings, who had had a desire to form a Lodge for some time. This development took place in 1932. Hastings Lodge
[No. 1007] prospered in the following years, participated in many community affairs and played an integral role in Hasting’s life.
Time, however, took its toll, and in 1989, Rising Star Lodge and Hastings Lodge merged. Since that time, the Lodge has been
considerably stronger, and members continue to focus on the future with much anticipation.
White Plains Lodge No. 473, White Plains, New York
http://www.whiteplainsmasoniclodge.org/History-of-White-Plains-Lodge.html
Although White Plains Lodge No.473, F. & A.M., was granted a Dispensation by the Grand Lodge, F. & A.M., of the State of New
York on April 6, 1859 and held its first meeting under Charter on June 30, 1859, we know that there was Masonic activity in White
Plains long prior to that date. On December 22, 1799, Grand Lodge granted to Huguenot Lodge No. 46 a Dispensation allowing for
alternate meetings in Eastchester and White Plains, because of the "great distances" to be traveled by members;
Dear Sirs:
I have the pleasure to inform you that the Grand Lodge convened an extra last evening respecting the arrangement to take place
on account of the death of our illustrious Brother, George Washington. I took the opportunity of moving on your petition to hold your
Lodge alternately at Eastchester and White Plains, and have the pleasure to inform you that the prayer of the petition was granted
unanimously. It will be communicated to you officially by the earliest opportunity. Remember me to all of our friends and to your
good family.
Yours with esteem,
ABRAHAM SKINNER
The Lodge, accordingly, met at White Plains, at the house of Brother Joseph Hatfield every alternate meeting night. Official notice of
the death of General Washington was not received by the Lodge until February 10th, 1800, when it was resolved to meet at White
Plains on the 22nd, to pay honor to the memory of him who had done so much for the cause of his country. Brother David Rogers
was requested to prepare and deliver an oration on that day at the Court House. Invitations were then forwarded to all the other
Lodges, and, on the day appointed, the combined Brethren and others met at the home of Captain Hatfield, and proceeded to the
Court House. The White Plains meetings were discontinued in 1802 and the Lodge held its meetings in Eastchester only. Solomon's
Lodge No. 196 was chartered and held its communications in White Plains until 1812, when it was removed to Tarrytown. From then
until 1852, there is no record of Masonry in White Plains. In that year a petition was presented to Grand Lodge asking for a charter
for White Plains Lodge. Favorable consideration was recommended by Armour Lodge No. 186 of Port Chester. However, some of
the petitioners were dissatisfied with the name and asked that it be changed to Oriental Lodge. With the concurrence of Armour
Lodge, a new petition was presented in January, 1853. For some unknown reason, the charter was endorsed Ionic. Little is known
of Ionic Lodge *, except that meetings were held on February 1 and 15 and March 1 and 15 of 1853 and that two members were
elected and initiated. In 1859, a petition, with the concurrence of Solomon's Lodge No. 196, was presented to Grand Lodge and
granted for a new White Plains Lodge. By dispensation dated June 16th, 1859, Past Worshipful Brother Daniel Sickels was duly
authorized to constitute "in due form" White Plains Lodge, No. 473, Free and Accepted Masons, and on June 30th, A.D. 1859, A.L.
5859, the Charter of White Plains Lodge No. 473 of Free and Accepted Masons was duly granted. During the first seven or eight
years of its existence, the meetings of the Lodge were held in the upper story of the brick building known as "Mogers Hall." It was
the first structure of brick in the village, the materials being brought from Tarrytown by oxen. The ground floor was used as a blacksmith
shop, and later a grocery.
http://books.google.com/books?id=EkgVAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA739&lpg=PA739&dq=%22White+Plains+Lodge+No.+473%22&
source=bl&ots=hSN3c28aik&sig=FINFw5p9Y5XZwI64eF7Dcm4xa5o&hl=en&ei=CDLsTbvFH4H2gAeVuzXCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=9&ved=0CEkQ6AEwCA#v=onepage&q=%22White%20Plains%20Lodge%
20No.%20473%22&f=false page 73
* THE IONIC LODGE was the first Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in White Plains. It was organized under a dispensation
from the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, and held its first meeting 1 Feb 1853. It never held but three or four
meetings. John P. Jenkins was Master; Elijah Guion, Senior Warden; and Lewis C. Piatt, Junior Warden.
In 1867 White Plains Lodge moved to the Gibson Building, where they suffered their first fire loss. The flames struck one summer
day in 1880. Commencing in a tin shop in the rear, it spread to the three story building. Standing on the northeast corner of Railroad
and Lexington Avenues, there was danger that the whole village would become engulfed, so all able-bodied men came to fight the
fire. Departments from Mount Vernon and Port Chester arrived to help as well. Eventually, they conquered the flames. But a
65

newspaper account noted that "Mrs. Pink, who lived nearby was considerably frightened and had several hysteric fits." The newly
renovated Masonic rooms on the third floor were badly damaged and much furniture lost.
When the Mead Building was constructed on Railroad Avenue near Lexington Avenue in 1904, the Lodge moved to that brick
building. In 1906 White Plains Lodge donated $50 for the relief of victims of the San Francisco earthquake. Then, on February 3,
1907, a fire broke out in the Mead Building which took the lives of three young volunteer members of the Union Hook & Ladder
Company. Reportedly, a large cornice fell, burying John Chester Cromwell, Caleb Underhill, and Charles F. Cooley beneath tons of
debris. Apartments were gutted, the Westchester Lighting Company's office and a clothing business on the ground floor were
ruined, and once again White Plains Lodge lost its furnishings and records.
The 1,000th Stated Communication of White Plains Lodge was held on June 17, 1908, at which time a motion was made and
carried to buy property on Martine Avenue at a cost of $3,000 and to contract for the erection of what is the present Temple, at a
cost of $10,675. The cornerstone for the Masonic Temple, located on the south side of Martine Avenue, was laid on October 24,
1908. Judge Tompkins delivered the main address. The first meeting in this new Temple was the 57th Special Communication held
on March 17, 1909 at 7:00 pm to confer the First Section of the Third Degree. The Lodge at that time had 225 members.
Those who think attendance is a problem peculiar to this era will be interested to learn that Worshipful Master William H. Carpenter
in 1911 sent a message with one of his notices asking whether or not the fault for low attendance lay with the Lodge or with the
members. He stated, "If ours, come around and tell us what the trouble is, and the officers will gladly do all within their power to
remedy it. If yours, the remedy is in your own hands. Come out and rectify it."
On March 11, 1925, the mortgage was burned, and with a membership of 670, the Masonic Temple was now owned free and clear.
White Plains Lodge celebrated its 100th Anniversary on April 15, 1959, and celebrated its 150th Anniversary on April 15, 2009.
White Plains Lodge No. 473, White Plains, New York
Dispensation: 6 Apr 1859 [Instituted]
First Meeting: 30 Jun 1859 [under Charter]
http://www.whiteplainsmasoniclodge.org/History-of-White-Plains-Lodge.html
Although White Plains Lodge No.473, F. & A.M., was granted a Dispensation by the Grand Lodge, F. & A.M., of the State of New
York on April 6, 1859 and held its first meeting under Charter on June 30, 1859, we know that there was Masonic activity in White
Plains long prior to that date. On December 22, 1799, Grand Lodge granted to Huguenot [sic] Lodge No. 46 a Dispensation allowing
for alternate meetings in Eastchester and White Plains, because of the "great distances" to be traveled by members;
Dear Sirs:
I have the pleasure to inform you that the Grand Lodge convened an extra last evening respecting the arrangement to take place
on account of the death of our illustrious Brother, George Washington. I took the opportunity of moving on your petition to hold your
Lodge alternately at Eastchester and White Plains, and have the pleasure to inform you that the prayer of the petition was granted
unanimously. It will be communicated to you officially by the earliest opportunity. Remember me to all of our friends and to your
good family.
Yours with esteem,
ABRAHAM SKINNER
The Lodge, accordingly, met at White Plains, at the house of Brother Joseph Hatfield every alternate meeting night. Official notice of
the death of General Washington was not received by the Lodge until February 10th, 1800, when it was resolved to meet at White
Plains on the 22nd, to pay honor to the memory of him who had done so much for the cause of his country. Brother David Rogers
was requested to prepare and deliver an oration on that day at the Court House. Invitations were then forwarded to all the other
Lodges, and, on the day appointed, the combined Brethren and others met at the home of Captain Hatfield, and proceeded to the
Court House. The White Plains meetings were discontinued in 1802 and the Lodge held its meetings in Eastchester only. Solomon's
Lodge No. 196 was chartered and held its communications in White Plains until 1812, when it was removed to Tarrytown. From then
until 1852, there is no record of Masonry in White Plains. In that year a petition was presented to Grand Lodge asking for a charter
for White Plains Lodge. Favorable consideration was recommended by Armour Lodge No. 186 of Port Chester. However, some of
the petitioners were dissatisfied with the name and asked that it be changed to Oriental Lodge. With the concurrence of Armour
Lodge, a new petition was presented in January, 1853. For some unknown reason, the charter was endorsed Ionic. Little is known
of Ionic Lodge, except that meetings were held on February 1 and 15 and March 1 and 15 of 1853 and that two members were
elected and initiated. In 1859, a petition, with the concurrence of Solomon's Lodge No. 196, was presented to Grand Lodge and
granted for a new White Plains Lodge. By dispensation dated June 16th, 1859, Past Worshipful Brother Daniel Sickels was duly
authorized to constitute "in due form" White Plains Lodge, No. 473, Free and Accepted Masons, and on June 30th, A.D. 1859, A.L.
5859, the Charter of White Plains Lodge No. 473 of Free and Accepted Masons was duly granted. During the first seven or eight
years of its existence, the meetings of the Lodge were held in the upper story of the brick building known as "Mogers Hall." It was
the first structure of brick in the village, the materials being brought from Tarrytown by oxen. The ground floor was used as a blacksmith
shop, and later a grocery.
In 1867 White Plains Lodge moved to the Gibson Building, where they suffered their first fire loss. The flames struck one summer
day in 1880. Commencing in a tin shop in the rear, it spread to the three story building. Standing on the northeast corner of Railroad
and Lexington Avenues, there was danger that the whole village would become engulfed, so all able-bodied men came to fight the
fire. Departments from Mount Vernon and Port Chester arrived to help as well. Eventually, they conquered the flames. But a
newspaper account noted that "Mrs. Pink, who lived nearby was considerably frightened and had several hysteric fits." The newly
renovated Masonic rooms on the third floor were badly damaged and much furniture lost.
66

When the Mead Building was constructed on Railroad Avenue near Lexington Avenue in 1904, the Lodge moved to that brick
building. In 1906 White Plains Lodge donated $50 for the relief of victims of the San Francisco earthquake. Then, on February 3,
1907, a fire broke out in the Mead Building which took the lives of three young volunteer members of the Union Hook & Ladder
Company. Reportedly, a large cornice fell, burying John Chester Cromwell, Caleb Underhill, and Charles F. Cooley beneath tons of
debris. Apartments were gutted, the Westchester Lighting Company's office and a clothing business on the ground floor were
ruined, and once again White Plains Lodge lost its furnishings and records.
The 1,000th Stated Communication of White Plains Lodge was held on June 17, 1908, at which time a motion was made and
carried to buy property on Martine Avenue at a cost of $3,000 and to contract for the erection of what is the present Temple, at a
cost of $10,675. The cornerstone for the Masonic Temple, located on the south side of Martine Avenue, was laid on October 24,
1908. Judge Tompkins delivered the main address. The first meeting in this new Temple was the 57th Special Communication held
on March 17, 1909 at 7:00 pm to confer the First Section of the Third Degree. The Lodge at that time had 225 members.
Those who think attendance is a problem peculiar to this era will be interested to learn that Worshipful Master William H. Carpenter
in 1911 sent a message with one of his notices asking whether or not the fault for low attendance lay with the Lodge or with the
members. He stated, "If ours, come around and tell us what the trouble is, and the officers will gladly do all within their power to
remedy it. If yours, the remedy is in your own hands. Come out and rectify it."
On March 11, 1925, the mortgage was burned, and with a membership of 670, the Masonic Temple was now owned free and clear.
White Plains Lodge celebrated its 100th Anniversary on April 15, 2009.
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_3_K_to_P.htm
William P. Platt Justice, Supreme Court of New York from 1915. b. 16 Ma 1858 in White Plains, NY. Began law practice at White
Plains in 1879. Member of White Plains Lodge No. 473, White Plains, NY, being raised on 17 Nov 1897. d. 2 Nov 1926.
http://pmaai.org/hall/quesada.htm
R.’.W.’. ROMULO B. QUESADA
9 Doyer Avenue, White Plains, NY 10605-1108
Russwyn@aol.com
District Deputy Grand Master – 2ndWestchester – Putnam District - 2000 - 2002
Philippines:
¨ Initiated Entered Apprentice 9 Sep 1961; passed as Fellowcraft 16 Sep 1961; raised 14 Oct 1961; all in
Mainam Lodge No. 49 (Naic, Cavite)
¨ Worshipful Master of Mainam Lodge No. 49 (1966)
¨ Grand Lodge Inspector: Tagaytay Lodge No. 165 (1967-1969) and Bagong Ilaw Lodge No. 97 (1970-
1971)
¨ 32 Degree, Luzon Bodies Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry in the Philippines (1963)
¨ Held positions as Most Wise Master of the Chapter of Rose Croix, Commander of Liberty Council of Kadosh, and Master of
Kadosh of the Equality Consistory
¨ Invested with the rank and decoration of a Knight Commander of the Court of Honor (KCCH) in February, 1970
White Plains, New York:
¨ Affiliated with White Plains Lodge No. 473 (1980)
¨ Worshipful Master, White Plains Lodge No. 473 (1988 and 1989)
¨ District Deputy Grand Master for the 2nd Westchester-Putnam District (2000-2002); appointed on 1 May 2000, by the New York
State Grand Master, M.’.W.’. Carl J. Smith
¨ Joined the Valley of White Plains, Scottish Rite of Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, NMJ (1980)
¨ Held positions as Thrice Potent Master of the Lodge of Perfection, Sovereign Prince of the Council of Princes of Jerusalem, Most
Wise Master of the Chapter of Rose Croix, and Commander-in-Chief of the Consistory. He was a Trustee, Hospitalier, Secretary,
and is currently the Treasurer of the Valley
¨ In 1987, the Council of Deliberation, the highest governing body of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry in the state of New York,
bestowed on him the Meritorious Service Award (MSA), the equivalent of the KCCH in the Southern Masonic Jurisdiction
¨ In September 1996, the Supreme Council unanimously elected him to receive the Rite's highest honor and then, on September
23, 1997, coroneted him a 33 o Degree Mason
Note: RW Quesada possesses the rare distinction of receiving two Red Hats, KCCH and MSA, from both the Southern and Northern
Masonic Jurisdiction of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry.
Family:
¨ Born in 1932, in Santa Cruz, Laguna; resided in Naic, Cavite, and Makati, Rizal.
¨ Married for 39 years to the former Lolita Villacorta; BBA, University of the East; CPA.; worked for the United Nations Development
Programme, retired in 1996
¨ Three sons: Renwick, Radford, and Russwyn; two grandsons by Renwick (Kyle and Colin).
¨ Immigrated to the United States in August 1979
Training/Profession:
¨ Graduated in 1953 from Mapua Institute of Technology with a degree in Civil Engineering; took additional training in Project
Management at Ateneo University, Manila; finished a program in Construction Management at New York University.
¨ Worked 25 years for a construction management company in the Philippines and 20 years for a New York State agency and
retired in December 1998.
67

Wyoming Lodge No. 492, Westchester, New York
Warrant: ca 1860
On 12 Sep 1869 Marion Lodge No. 276 approved the Petition of William J. McDermott, Hiram Olmstead, Thomas Bible, Thomas
Baldwin, Henry Rex, Ale[x]ander Elliott, William Elliott and John Morrison of Marion Lodge; Peter Nelson of Royal Sussex Lodge No.
704, Halifax, Nova Scotia; Francis McDermott of Lodge of Sincerity No. 368, England; and Joseph L. Fowler of St. John’s Lodge No.
13, Richmond, VA, to the Deputy Grand Master, R.’.W.’. John W. Simons, for permission to establish a Lodge at Westchester,
Westchester County, to be known as Wyoming Lodge.
The Petition was duly presented and on 27 Sep the dispensation was grandted, maning William J. McDermott as the first Master;
Peter Nelson, Senior Warden, and Hiram Omstead, Junior Warden.
“Biographical sketches of the state officers and members of the Legislature ...,” by William D. Murphy, 1861, page 227.
http://books.google.com/books?id=qc8NAQAAMAAJ&pg=PA228&lpg=PA228&dq=%22Francis+McDermott%22++%22westchester
%22&source=bl&ots=hd0qd_cp-
L&sig=XG8VQ7tLRmT82t28S2VT7LAw06o&hl=en&ei=yT7tTeadGcbx0gH8qsizAQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ve
d=0CBYQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=%22Francis%20McDermott%22%20%20%22westchester%22&f=false page 227 [1861]
William J[ames]. McDermott is a native of Portland, Maine, where he was born on the 5th of May, 1830. He is of Irish descent, and
some of his paternal ancestors held prominent positions in the British Government. His parents are still living. When very young he
was placed under the care of J. Patterson, LL.D., Principal of the Grammar school in St. John's, New Brunswick, where he remained
six years. He then entered the Seminary in Fredericktown, New Brunswick. In 1846, he was sent to Paris, and entered the College
Charlemagne, where he remained until 1848. On his return he entered the medical department of the University of New York, and
graduated in 1852. In the winter of 1853, he again visited Germany and France, and attended a course of lectures in the Ecole de
Medecine and Hotel Dieu, in Paris. Returning to the United States, he commenced the praetice of his profession in the town of
Westchester, Westchester county, where he now resides, and continued to practise with increasing success, until recently, when he
joined his father, Francis McDermott, in the city of New York, in the manufacturing firm of F. McDermott & Company, now F.
McDermott & Son.
Dr. McDermott never held any political office until his election to the body of which he is now a member [1861]. Formerly he was an
uncompromising Democrat, with some American proclivities, and ran for his present position against the Haskin candidate, whom he
defeated by nine hundred and forty majority, at the same time defeating the Republican candidate by a small majority. He is a quiet
man in the House, and is said by his friends to be a faithful representative.
Dr. McDermott was married some years ago to Miss S. V. Thompson, of Rhinebeck, Dutchess county, and sustains a high position
in all the social relations of private life.
http://books.google.com/books?id=5XogAQAAMAAJ&pg=PA567&dq=%22William+J.+McDermott%22+%22westchester%22&hl=en
&ei=5yvtTfzgL83pgAeTyuXXCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=4&ved=0CDoQ6AEwAw#v=onepage&q=%22William%2
0J.%20McDermott%22%20%22westchester%22&f=false page 567.
Dr. William J. McDermott, of New York, seventythree years old, a noted surgeon in the Civil War and a personal friend of
Presidents Lincoln and Grant, died Saturday, March 12 [1904], at his home after a lingering illness. Dr. McDermott was born in
Portland, Me., and received his early education in St. John, N. B. In 1853 he was graduated in medicine, and after two years of
study in Europe he began practice in the village of Westchester. Dr. McDermott was elected to the Assembly in 1860. When the first
call for troops was issued Dr. McDermott resigned from the Assembly and enlisted as surgeon and went to the front with the 6th NY
Volunteers. At the end of three months the regiment re-enlisted as the 66th NY Volunteers under Col. Joseph Pinkney. Dr.
McDermott saw much active service. He was with Col. [Ephraim E ] Ellsworth when that officer was shot at Alexandria, and ran to
his assistance. He assisted in the amputation of Gen. Howard's arm at the battle of Fair Oaks, and participated in the battle of the
Wilderness, being left in charge of the wounded. He was captured and sent to Libby Prison, where, after a short term, he was
paroled. Shortly before the close of the war he served under Surgeon-General Baxter, and was mustered out in October, 1865.
Returning to Westchester he renewed his practice.
McDERMOTT, WILLIAM J . - Age 31 years. Enrolled [66th NY Inf. Vols.], 31 Oct 1861, at New York city, to serve three years;
mustered in as Surgeon, 4 Nov 1861; discharged, 14 Jun 1862; again enrolled and mustered in, 1 Feb 1864; discharged for
disability, 29 Jun 1864. Cbnlmissioned Surgeon, 27 Dec 1861, witb rank from 29 Oct 1861; original; again commissioned Surgeon,
15 Mar 1861, with rank from 23 Jan 23, 1864, vice C. S. Wood, resigned.
McDERMOTT, WILLIAM J. - Age 32 years. Mustered in at New York city, to serve three years, 14 Feb 1863, as surgeon of
Tompkins Cavalry; mustered out, on consolidation with 13th NY Cavalry, about 18 Jun 1863, at New York city.
McDERMOTT, WILLIAM J., late Surgeon, 66th NY Infantry; appointed Assistant Surgeon, with rank of First Lieutenant, 26 Oct 1864;
mustered out, 21 Oct 1865; Major, US Volunteers, by brevet, from 21 Oct 1865.
http://archiver.rootsweb.ancestry.com/th/read/MCDERMOTT/2006-03/1142794455
Papers of William James McDermott, 1844-1919.
Held at the Huntington Library Manuscripts Dept., 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino, CA 91108
Notes and Summaries:
William James McDermott, New York physician. He was born in Portland, Maine, son of Francis McDermott. In 1840s, the family
lived in New Brunswick. In 1854, William James McDermott received his M.D. from the City University of New York, and took an
examination in the Army Medical Board. In August 1861, he was approved by the Board of Medical Examiners of the State of New
York for service as surgeon in Volunteer regiments, and served as surgeon in the 66th Regiment of New York Volunteer Infantry
68

from Oct. 1861 to June 1864. In the late June, 1864, he tendered his resignation and continued to work under a contract with the
War Department until the end of the Civil War. He served as Assistant Surgeon in various hospitals and as a medical inspector for
the office of Provost Marshal. After the war, he practiced medicine in Westchester County and New York City. In October 1863,
McDermott was running for New York City Assembly on a Democratic ticket. He also was a prominent Mason, one of the founders
and the first Master of Wyoming Lodge (Westchester County).
Miscellaneous papers, chiefly official documents and correspondence related to McDermott's career, particularly his military service.
Included are orders, appointments, commissions, reports, requests and bills for medical supplies, correspondence. The papers
contain a report of examination and treatment of those wounded at the Battle of the Wilderness (May 1864) and a letter to his father
describing the aftermath of the Battle of Cold Harbor and the siege of Petersburg. There are also McDermott's credentials, his
Masonic diplomas and correspondence, passports, certificates, and other documents. Also included are poems and an essay on the
history of the City University of New York, written by McDermott.
The collection also contains scattered family records, some daguerreotype portraits, a 1873 notebook containing formulas for
medicines kept by Dr. John B. Crosby, and a petition signed by "Her Majesty's Protestant subjects" of St. John, N.B. about ban on
secret societies, which was allegedly sought by "Roman Catholics" in order to "prevent Protestants meeting together to hold loyal
associations." (1844).
Cards for some individual items are filed in alphabetical section of the Manuscript Catalog.
This collection covers:
McDermott, William James, b. 1833 Archives.
City University of New York - History Sources.
Freemasons. Wyoming Lodge, No. 492 (Westchester, N.Y.)
United States. Army - Surgeons Archives
United States. Army. New York Infantry Regiment, 66th (1861-1865)
New York (State) - History - Civil War, 1861-1865 - Regimental histories Sources.
United States - History - Civil War, 1861-1865 - Medical care Sources.
Anti-Catholicism - Canada - History - 19th century Sources.
Physicians - New York (State) - New York Archives.
Secret societies - Canada - History - 19th century Sources.
-----
http://books.google.com/books?id=XHrxgFYISmYC&pg=PA254&dq=%22Wyoming+Lodge+No.+492%22&hl=en&ei=u_LsTci5EujW
0QGBpeWrAQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=4&ved=0CEIQ6AEwAw#v=onepage&q=%22Wyoming%20Lodge%20No.
%20492%22&f=false page 253.
Isaac Butler, a highly respected and well known citizen of Westchester, sexton of St. Peter's Episcopal Church, borough of Bronx, a
position which he has held for many years, is descended from English ancestors. Joseph Butler, the great-grandfather of Isaac
Butler, was a resident of Somersetshire, England, and was a farmer by occupation. William Butler, son of Joseph Butler, was born in
Somersetshire, where he spent most of the active years of his life, occupied with the cultivation of a farm. He married Martha
Palmer.
William Butler, son of William and Martha (Palmer) Butler, was born in Somersetshire, England, in 1800, spent all his life there, and
died in that place in April, 1836. He was a silk worker by occupation and followed that line of work throughout the active years of his
life. He operated an extensive factory giving employment to as many as one hundred operatives. He married Ann Hill, who was also
a native of Somersetshire, and who survived him many years, dying at the mature age of 83 years. William and Ann (Hill) Butler had
a number of children, of whom the following named came to America: Isaac, of this review. Stephen, Martha Ann Palmer, m. George
Griswold and settled at Meriden, CT.
Isaac Butler, eldest son of William and Ann (Hill) Butler, was born in the village of
Evercreech, Somersetshire, England, May 30, 1825. He was educated in the schools of
his native town, Evercreech, and at the age of fourteen was apprenticed to learn the
carpenter's trade. He served an apprenticeship of seven years and then worked as a
journeyman up to 1849, when he decided to come to the United States. He was betrothed
at the time of his decision, and he thought it advisable to marry before setting out for the
new world. He sailed the day after his marriage and, after a tedious voyage of eight
weeks, landed at New York city. Upon his arrival he at once settled at West Farms, where
he commenced working at his trade of carpenter and followed that for a period of about
four years. In 1853 he removed to Unionltort, where he built a house for himself in which
he continued to reside until July, 1856, when he removed to Westchester and pursued his
trade there for some time. In the same vear he became connected and identified with St.
Peter's Episcopal Church and was made sexton thereof, a position he still holds at the
present time (1906). Mr. Bntler finally relinquished his trade as carpenter and became
engaged in the undertaking business, which line of enterprise he has conducted in
connection with his official duties at St. Peter's Church. Among his patrons are many of
the leading citizens of the borough of the Bronx.
Isaac Butler is a careful and painstaking man in all his undertakings and scrupulously just
in all his business transactions, and it may \m correctly stated that he has served as
sexton of St. Peter's Church at Westchester for fifty years and has always made
punctuality and fidelity to duty his chief object. He has proven himself to be a progressive
69

and enterprising citizen, and has, during these many years, contributed much to the growth and advancement of the community
wherein he resides. He has always taken an active interest in such enterprises as had for their object the good and welfare of the
neighborhood. He has served for over fifteen years on the school board and has done much for the furtherance of educacational
interests. He is an active member of Wyoming Lodge, No. 492, Free and Accepted Masons, and was the first member initiated into
this lodge, of which he is a Past Master.
Isaac Butler married, April 9,1849, Anna Cox, born February 22, 1825, daughter of Richard and Patience (Read) Cox, both natives
of Somersetshire, England. Mrs. Butler died October 1, 1889. She was a most estimable woman of the old school type and
possessed many excellent attributes of character. Isaac Butler and his wife were the parents of the following named children:
1. Martha Annie, b. 25 Sep 1852; m. 20 Jun 1857 Henry V. Arnow, June 20, 1875.
2. William Richard, b. 16 May 1854; m. Florence Thwaitos, b. 26 Jul 1856.
http://books.google.com/books?id=QlxKAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA46&lpg=PA46&dq=%22Wyoming+Lodge+No.+492%22&source=bl&ots
=io-
MPplWiV&sig=7vLjGheYpMWCpH4QKSTjCvLkT7c&hl=en&ei=DsLsTZTAB4To0QGT9eSQAQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&re
snum=6&ved=0CDoQ6AEwBQ#v=onepage&q=%22Wyoming%20Lodge%20No.%20492%22&f=false page 46.
George McGown [McGowan] - Grand Lecturer of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of
the State of New York, was born in Ireland, 9 Jun 1842, and was educated in the public schools
of Philadelphia, Pa. Entering the United States Army as a private in 1858, he se1ved throughout
the war, attained to the rank of captain, and was retired from active service 14 Mar 1865, being
brevetted lieutenant-colonel in the following November. After the war he was mustering officer at
Wheeling, VA, chief mustering officer at Columbus, Ohio, and from July, 1867, to February. 1870
was disbursing officer in the Adjutant-General's office at Washington. On 23 Apr 1904, he
received the rank of Major, retired. Colonel McGown was made a Mason in Wyoming Lodge
No. 492, Westchester, NY, in Nov 1863. He finally located his membership in lodge, chapter,
council and commandery at Palmyra, where he has resided since his retirement from army duty.
He was appointed Grand Lecturer of the Grand Chapter in 1884, elected Grand Commander of
Knights Templar of the State in 1890, Grand Master of the Grand Council of Royal and Select
Masters in 1900. He received the Thirty-third Degree at Boston, Mass., in 1888. Colonel
McGown is past commander of James A. Garfield Post 193. G. A. R., and a member of the
Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States, and of the Masonic Clubs of New York
City and Rochester. He is the author of the Royal Arch Standard. On 7 Sep 1864, he married
Julia Lucinda Chase, daughter of Dr. Durfee Chase of Palmyra, NY. Address, 4 Washington Street, Palmyra. He died there 9 Oct
1924, age 82 years.
George McGown. Enlisted at Philadelphia. Jun 1858, Regular Army, 2nd Inf. Co. C; served through the war of the Rebellion;
promoted 2nd Lieut. 7th Inf. 29 Nov 1861; 1st Lieut. 4 Jul 1863; Captain Sep 1864; brevet Major and Lieut.-Colonel; retired from
active service Mar 1865; continued on duty until Feb 1870; settled in Palmyra.
70

Somers Lodge No. 506, Somers, New York
Petition: 1 Sep 1827, That in 1806 a Lodge under the title of Washington [No. 141] had existed for some time in Stephen Town
[now Somers] but for various reasons the charter was returned to Grand Lodge, that the former members of this Lodge and others
of neighboring Lodges residing in the vicinity of Somers desire a “New charter under the name of Somers Lodge. The reason of our
71

Prefference to having a new warrant instead of taking up the old one is first the name of the town is altered; 2nd some persons
might claim memberbership.”
Recommended by Salem No. 72, South Salem. Signed by:
Bailey, Lewis
Cancell, Isaac 2nd
Crane, Girard
Finch, Edward
Lion, Abraham
Mead, Squire
Officers: John Owen, Master; Squire Mead, SW; Edward Finch, JW.
Warrant: 5 Sep 1827
Forfeit: 5 Jun 1836
Officers
Owen, John
Turner, Joshua
Return Master Senior Warden Junion Warden Secretary
Jan-Jun 1828 John Owen Squire Mead Edward Finch Lewis Baily
1828-29 “
“
“
“
1829-30 “
“
“
“
1830-31 Squire Mead Edward Finch Jacob Ruxer “
Document
May 1832
Girard Crane Jacob Ruxer
1828-31 Treasurer: Charles Wright
http://www.circushistory.org/Olympians/OlympiansW2.htm
“
Wright, Charles
The following of the above Somers Brothers, or people connected with them, are listed in Olympians of the Sawdust Circle, as
follows:
BAILEY, HACHALIAH. (1775-September 2, 1845) Native of Stephentown (later named Somers), Westchester County, NY. A
shrewd businessman, bought an elephant, “Old Bet,” for $1,000 around 1808. With other animals added, monkeys and a bear or
two, the Bailey caravan toured the nearby centers of population with what was said to be the second elephant to be exhibited in
America. Erected an inn, 1823, in North Salem which was named the Elephant Hotel. A wooden replica of “Old Bet” was placed on a
stone foundation in front of it and dedicated in 1827. Was the father of James P., Joseph T. and Lewis and uncle of George F.
Bailey. Died at age 70.
BAILEY, JAMES ANTHONY [r. n. James Anthony McGinness]. (July 4, 1847-April 11, 1906) Born in Detroit, MI. Father died, 1852,
his mother a few years later. At age 11 was working on a farm for $3.50 a month and board. Age 13 joined Robinson & Lake, June
17, 1860, in Pontiac, MI, and came under the tutelage of advance agent Frederick H. Bailey, from whom he took the name.
Remained with this show through 1862, working in the off season as a bill poster in Cincinnati. Winter, 1863, employed at the
Nashville (TN) Theatre, bill posting, selling tickets and ushering. Became a sutler’s clerk that year, selling provisions to the soldiers
until the end of the Civil War. When only 18, re-entered circus business as assistant agent and boss billposter, Lake's Olympiad,
1866-67; general agent, Lake’s, 1868-69; half owner concert privileges, Hemmings, Cooper & Whitby, 1870; general agent,
Hemmings & Cooper, 1871; all privileges (with George Middleton), Hemmings & Cooper, 1872; bought Hemming’s quarter-interest,
1873; after Whitby was killed the following year, Bailey acquired his holdings. Circus went to Australia, 1876, and met with
considerable success, being the first in the antipodes; then toured New Zealand and South America. Following South American tour,
the only unsuccessful one Bailey experienced, the show returned to the United States, December, 1878. Illuminated the
performances by electricity, the first time for a tented exhibition, 1879. Winter quarters, Philadelphia, 1880, the first baby elephant in
captivity was born, creating a publicity sensation. Cooper & Bailey joined with the Barnum show, 1881. There followed a succession
of circus phenomena: the famous Jumbo acquisition; the instigation of 3 rings under a single canvas and a hippodrome track;
Bailey’s purchasing the interests of J. L. Hutchinson, W. W. Cole and J. E. Cooper in the Barnum & London Shows, October 27,
1887, at Madison Square Garden, the show henceforth being known as Barnum & Bailey; Barnum & Bailey’s London engagement,
1890; acquiring of the Adam Forepaugh circus, 1891, following the death of Forepaugh; the Barnum & Bailey Circus European tour,
1898; and Bailey’s purchase of the Sells Bros. circus and Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show. Married Miss Ruth Louisa McCaddon,
who was born in Zanesville, OH, 1868. Died at his home, “The Knolls,” Mt. Vernon, NY, leaving an estate worth 5 to 8 million dollars
and a legacy as the greatest showman of his day. His wife died March 11, 1912, at Hobe Island, FL
BAILEY, JAMES PURDY. (1812-1853) Agent. Son of Hackaliah and brother of Lewis and Joseph T. Bailey. Brown’s, 1832-33;
co-proprietor, Joseph T. and James P. Bailey’s, 1834-35; manager, Ludlow & Smith, 1841; agent, Robinson & Foster, 1843.
BAILEY, JOSEPH TODD. (b. 1807) Son of Hackaliah and brother of Lewis and James P. Bailey. Co-proprietor, J. T. and J. P.
Bailey’s Menagerie and Cir- cus, 1834-35.
BAILEY, LEWIS. Son of Hackaliah and brother of James P. and Joseph T. Bailey. Believed to have been in partnership with J.
Purdy Brown when the concern was the first to use a canvas tent, 1825; co-proprietor, Purdy, Carley & Bailey’s meneagerie, 1831.
Partner with J. Purdy Brown, 1825, in a circus venture, Brown’s first season under canvas, which marked the beginning of the use
of tents for traveling circuses. Listed as riding master, J. Purdy Brown’s troupe in the South, 1828.
BROWN, JOSHUAH PURDY. (1802?-June 6, 1834) A native of Somers, Westchester County, NY. In 1825, was a partner with
Lewis Bailey in a circus venture, his first season under canvas and one which marked the beginning of the use of tents for traveling
circuses. Stuart Thayer credits him with “Americanizing” the circus, initializing the wagon traveling show with its own portable
theatre, making one-day stands. Moved his companies great distances and explored new territories; was the first to take a circus to
Virginia, 1826; as early as 1828, moved up and down the Mississippi Valley to be the first circus to enter the then western area,
72

where he set up companies in Natchez and New Orleans; continued the practice of the permanent circuses by featuring
hippodramas under canvas; 1832, toured with a combined circus and menagerie (under the title of Brown’s Circus and Menagerie),
one of the first to do so. Thayer correctly suggests that since Brown had his show on the road as early as 1825, the year the canvas
tent was introduced as a circus covering, and survived the vicissitudes of travel and competition, he must have been a practitioner of
good management and of astute business choices.
CRANE, GERARD. (January 3, 1791-February 11, 1872) One of the pioneers of American menageries. Began in the business by
exhibiting an elephant through the countryside. Toured with a lion and lioness, 1818. Later exhibited birds and small animals in
partnership with June, Angevine and Titus. With Lewis B. Titus exhibited an elephant, 1826. As proprietor, connected with Gregory,
Crane & Co., 1833-34; Crane & Eldred with a combined circus and menagerie, 1834-35; later had an interest in the menagerie of
Macomber, Welch & Co. Continued in management until at least 1836. Accumulated a sizeable fortune before retirement from the
business, being president of one or more banks and insurance companies. Died in Westchester, NY, age 82.
CRANE, JEREMIAH. Showman brother of Gerard and Thadeus Crane. With them, was an early exhibitor of animals.
CRANE, THADDEUS. (December 31, 1779-October 16, 1849) Son of Col. Thaddeus Crane, brother of Gerard and Jeremiah
Crane and an early exhibitor of animals. One of the founders of the Zoological Institute. Married Martha Titus (d. March 25, 1872).
FINCH, ED. Leased the elephant, Little Bet, 1823, from Hackaliah Bailey and had success in his exhibitions of her. 1826, in
partnership with Agrippa Martin, toured the Tippo Sultan Menagerie; and in association with Albert Miller, as Finch, Miller & Co.
Had the “Grand Caravan,” some 10 animals, on the road in 1830-31. Co-proprietor with Purdy, Welch, Finch & Wright’s menagerie,
1832.
TITUS, LEWIS B. (December 11, 1800?-December 29, 1870) A life-long bachelor. Owned and leased the elephant Little Bet with
Gerard Crane, 1826; Angevine, Titus & Burgess, 1827; American National Caravan, 1831; co-proprietor, June, Titus & Co., 1833-
34; VanAmburgh & Co. (Lewis B. Titus, John June, Caleb S. Angevine and Gerard Crane, proprietors), 1846-47; proprietor,
VanAmburgh Menagerie, United Kingdom, 1838-45; returned to United States, fall 1845; partner, VanAmburgh & Co., 1846-49. Said
the first to introduce to England the practice of traveling with a tent. Retired, 1849. Died in North Salem, NY.
WRIGHT, CHARLES. (1792-1862) Born in Somers, NY. First appeared in circus performances as an employee of Finch & Bailey in
their exhibition of the elephant “Betty” or “Little Bet,” 1822; New Caravan of Living Animals, supposedly under the ownership of
Carley and Purdy, 1826; by 1828, part of that concern; Carley, Purdy & Wright’s menagerie, 1830; co-proprietor, Purdy, Welch,
Finch & Wright’s menagerie, 1832; Purdy, Welch, Finch & Wright, menagerie, 1832. May have been first “lion keeper” in America,
since he was advertised as entering a lion’s den as early as 1829. Had two menageries on the road, 1828.
----
New Reciprocating Paddles - Mr. Jacob Ruxer, of Somers, N. Y. has invented a new plan of operating paddles, so as to give them
a reciprocating motion, lifting them vertically out of the water when they have made the full stroke and moving them forward
horizontally, to dip again into the water. He does not use a crank, but guides the paddles by an inclined plane, the paddles being
firmly secured to a long lever.
Jacob married Phebe Travis, b. 24 Jun 1822; d. 3 May 1890. He predeceased her any she remarried Merritt Kipp.
http://collectornuts.com/ebenezer_mead.pdf
Squire Mead b. 28 Feb 1795; d. 14 Oct 1860 in Somers, NY; bur. Ivandale Cem., Somers, NY; m. Nancy Ambler, b. 14 Feb 1795 in
CT; d. aft.1860. 5 Children: Hannah Elizabeth, Almira, Leroy, Jamesand Nancy.
----
Gerard Crane
http://www.somershistoricalsoc.org/menageries2p5.html
Gerard Crane (1791-1872) was an early animal exhibitor. In 1818 he and his brother
Thaddeus traveled the countryside exhibiting a lion and lioness. In 1826 he and Lewis
B. Titus leased Little Bet, the second elephant owned by Hachaliah Bailey [q.v.]. They
sub-leased to Crane, June & Co., and during this time the elephant was shot in
Chepachet, Rhode Island, in an incident similar to that of Old Bet. In 1833 Crane
partnered with Spencer Gregory to form the menagerie Gregory, Crane & Co, which
later featured a keeper (lion tamer), a female elephant named Flora, and a sevenhundred-pound
polar bear. Crane formed a combined circus and menagerie with
Edward Eldred, and was part of the Zoological Institute in 1835, using the title
“Zoological Exhibition and American Circus United.” Their company traveled through the
small towns of New Jersey and Long Island, and carried a museum, probably the first
circus to actually call the assemblage of curiosities and natural history items by this
name.
Gerard Crane returned to Somers, where he became Town Supervisor, 1833-37, and
served on the board of directors of the Croton Turnpike Company and the Farmers &
Drovers Bank. He purchased the Elephant Hotel from Hachaliah Bailey in 1837 but
sold it the following year to Hachaliah’s first cousin, Horace Bailey, who was the bank’s
first president. Gerard Crane and his brother Thaddeus became associated with June
Titus, became Town Supervisor, 1833-37, and served on the board of directors of the
Croton Turnpike Company and the Farmers & Drovers Bank.
73

In 1849 Gerard Crane built the Stone House, described by Charles Culver as “a fine large mansion of cut stone by the side of the
turnpike, one mile north of the village.” The building is finished in the best possible manner and presents an imposing
appearance...Near the house is a long hipped roofed building, that is now a barn, but was built for and used as an animal house
during the winter seasons. The house, a mile north of the Elephant Hotel, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Behind the house runs a small stream which appears on an early map as Rhinoceros Creek. Crane is reputed to have kept a
rhinoceros in the barns, which local lore claims to have occasionally escaped and trotted through town. Crane’s great accumulated
wealth allowed him to commission portraits of himself and his wife Roxanna Purdy Crane, by the itinerant portrait painter Ammi
Phillips, now considered one of the foremost early folk art American painters.
Diamond Lodge No. 555, Dobbs Ferry, New York
Warrant: 1865
http://www.diamond-thistle.org/History%20Part%201.htm
WHENCE CAME YE
Gerard Crane House – Somers, NY
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Gerard_Crane_House,_Somers,_NY.jpg
The Gerard Crane House is architecturally significant as an outstanding and
unusually sophisticated example of Greek Revival style architecture in the
hamlet of Somers. Built in 1849, the imposing dwelling is unusual for its stone
construction with its elaborate interior details including English Renaissance
plasterwork and European marble mantelpieces. The structure is historically
significant for its association with Gerard Crane, a prominent Somers citizen
and a member of a group of area men who formed lucrative circus and
menagerie businesses. Somers was a center of the circus industry throughout
the nineteenth century. Substantial in dimension and sophisticated in design,
the Gerard Crane House architecturally testifies to the economic vitality of
nineteenth century Somers and the wealth and taste of its building, Gerard
Crane. With its five intact outbuildings and 30-acre well-landscaped site, the
Gerard Crane House retains its rural character and mid-nineteenth century
ambience as a "gentleman’s estate."
This is the history of the first hundred years of Diamond Lodge, No. 555, F. & A. M., located in Dobbs Ferry, N. Y.
The name of the village was derived from the fact that Jeremiah Dobbs, a Swede, once operated a ferry for passengers across the
Hudson River here. Dobbs Ferry was once the site of a large Indian village; papers were signed here by which the American army
was disbanded and in which the British gave up all claim upon the allegiance and control of the country. It was here in this section of
the county, richly abounding in Revolutionary lore and landmarks that seven members of the Masonic fraternity, all residents of
Dobbs Ferry and all members of Solomon’s Lodge, No.196, F. & A. M., and all of whom had taken their three degrees in that Lodge,
presented a petition to the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York praying for a dispensation to form a
new Lodge to be located in Dobbs Ferry. Accompanying the petition was a copy of a resolution passed by Solomon’s Lodge at a
communication held June 2, 1864, avouching the petitioners to be Master Masons in good standing and recommending that the
petition be granted. This resolution was signed by the following officers of Solomon’s Lodge: —
Amos Briggs, Master; William I. Wood, Senior Warden; J. H. Reed, Junior Warden; Samuel E. Fisher, Secretary.
A dispensation was granted under date of July 5, 1864, by M.’. W.’. Clinton F. Paige, Grand Master, and attested by R.’. W.’. James
M. Austen, Grand Secretary.
It is interesting to note that at the annual Grand Lodge communication held in June, 1865, Grand Master Paige, addressing the
Lodge stated that twenty-nine new Lodges were chartered at the Annual Communication of Grand Lodge in June of that year. These
Lodges were numbered from 550 to 578. All are still in existence.
The official reason given in the petition to form a new Lodge in Dobbs Ferry was, “For the convenience of their respective dwellings
and for other good reasons.” Legend has it that among the “other good reasons” was an ultimatum from the wives of the Dobbs
Ferry Masons. Solomon’s Lodge met in Tarrytown, about five miles to the north of Dobbs Ferry, on Thursday evenings. In those
days trains did not run as frequently as they now do and as often, after missing the last train home, the men from Dobbs Ferry had
to walk home (not a great feat in those days); however, because of frequent intermissions from labor to refreshment and other
reasons, some of the Dobbs Ferry contingent did not arrive home until late on Friday and, in some instances even later. A very
vigorous female movement erupted and it is not improbable that this had some bearing on the creation of Diamond Lodge.
Diamond Lodge has good cause to be thankful to Solomon’s Lodge, not only for safely launching its petition, but for the very friendly
and helpful relations which have existed ever since.
The names of the petitioners for the new Lodge in Dobbs Ferry were: —
George B. Taylor William Pateman John H. Peterman A. O. Wilsea
James Patterson Charles Gisner Charles G. Storms
Abram O. Wilsea was nominated to be Worshipful Master, Charles Gisner to be Senior Warden and Charles C. Storms, Junior
Warden. The name of the Lodge to be “Diamond”; annual dues were set at five dollars, payable quarterly; the initiation fee to be
twenty dollars, eleven dollars to be paid on presenting the petition and nine dollars prior to receiving the first degree.
74

It is interesting to note how the name “Diamond” was selected for the new Lodge. The villagers of Dobbs Ferry, Irvington, Hastings
and Ardsley when not engaged in ministering to the needs of the owners of the palatial estates thereabout, produced farm produce,
most of which was shipped to New York City in market sloops down the Hudson River. On the return trips they would bring back
staples and other supplies. One of these market sloops was named “Diamond” and belonged to Brother William Pateman; the
suggestion was made, accepted and adopted that the name of the new Lodge be named after Captain Pateman’s sloop the
“Diamond.”
OUR FIRST HOME
First Meeting Place (inset W.’. Abram O. Wilsea, First Master)
The Lodge obtained rooms on the second floor of a brick building on the north-west corner of Main and Chestnut streets, Dobbs
Ferry, being otherwise occupied by Hay and Feed store. Brother Charles G. Storms was the owner and a nominal rent of $125.00
yearly was agreed upon; the paying of the rent appears to have been an annual problem and yet seems to have been solved most
amicably; if business was good and the Lodge prosperous the full amount was forth coming; if funds were low and the Lodge in
distress, the amount of the rent was tempered by the landlord to fit the funds available. These quarters, undoubtedly by reason of a
generous landlord, became the home of the Lodge for a period of thirty-one years, until the year 1895, when the building was
demolished and a new brick building, still standing, was erected. During their tenancy the Lodge provided its own heat and light,
undoubtedly wood or coal burning stoves and coal oil lamps. One amusing incident appears in the minutes of December 18, 1879;
the tiler was instructed not to purchase any more ink as the Landlord, Brother Charles C. Storms, promised to provide ink for one
year to date. To obtain the furniture and the necessary Lodge paraphernalia the seven charter members subscribed the sum of five
hundred dollars; the Lodge giving a bond for that amount, which was subsequently repaid.
The first meeting of the Lodge (under dispensation) was held July 29, 1864. The minutes state that all officers were present. A
proposition for membership was received; Brother Gisner proposed his step-son, Bishop R. Lawrence. Other propositions came in
at almost every meeting and a report given on January 27, 1865, stated that 23 petitions had been received; 19 were elected to
become members, four of which were by affiliation, three were rejected and one remained to be acted upon. The meeting of August
5, 1864, determined that the regular meetings of the Lodge should be held on every Friday evening; since that time the frequency of
the meetings has fluctuated considerably from weekly meetings to twice a month meetings as is now the custom. The changes are
enumerated herewith: —
1864 Met every Friday in the month.
1872 Beginning with the first Friday in April, met the first and third Friday in each month.
1876 May 5th, By-laws amended, to meet every Friday.
1881 March 25th, reverted back to the first and third Fridays in the month.
1883 March 2 nd , meeting nights changed to every Friday.
1904 January, to meet on the first and third Fridays in the month.
At the August 19, 1864 meeting, the annual dues of the members were fixed at five dollars annually, payable quarterly; excuses for
absences from meetings were demanded and, in some cases, fines were levied.
On October 28, 1864, Diamond Lodge adopted the by-laws of Solomon’s Lodge, No. as its own. The following are some interesting
excerpts from the printed by-laws of Diamond Lodge dated 1865:
Section 16 RELIEF
The committee shall consist of the W.M., S.W., and J.W., S, T, and S.D. and J.D., who shall daily, in turn, visit all brethren or their
families reported to them or to the Lodge as requiring assistance, and to report to the Lodge at the next communication. If occasion
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should require a brother to be attended during the night, the committee shall notify two members in rotation, as they stand on the roll
of the Lodge to attend such brother, except in the case of infectious or contagious disease, in which case the said committee shall
endeavor to procure suitable aid.
Section 35 PENALTIES
Any member who shall refuse or neglect to attend a sick brother, when duly notified by the Relief Committee, shall be fined one
dollar for each neglect, provided always the sickness be not contagious or infectious.
It is to be noted that a perusal of the minutes discloses but two instances where this duty was neglected and the offenders
reprimanded by Lodge action.
IN THE BEGINNING
A warrant dated June 13,1865, signed by Robert B. Holmes, Grand Master, and James M. Austin. Grand Secretary, was issued to
H.’.W.’. John P. Jenkins, District Deputy Grand Master of the Fourth Masonic District, then consisting of the counties of Duchess,
Putnam and Westchester, to constitute the new Lodge and install its officers; Brother Jenkins made the following official report: —
“Diamond Lodge, No. 555, F. & A. M. constituted in form and its Officers elect installed by me June 23, 1865.”
Signed, John P. Jenkins
The following Officers were installed: —
A. O. Wilsea Worshipful Master D. W. King Senior Deacon
Charles Gisner Senior Warden R. L. King
Junior Deacon
Charles G. Storms Junior Warden H. Parnell Sr. M. of C.
George H. Taylor Treasurer D. Lawrence Jr. M of C.
C. H. Judson Secretary
Charles F. Eichorn Tiler
When the First Westchester-Putnam District was created, Diamond Lodge became a part of that District.
At its organization, Diamond Lodge had jurisdiction over the residents of the villages of Dobbs Ferry, Ardsley, Irvington and
Hastings; with the organization of Hastings Lodge in 1930 jurisdiction passed to that Lodge over the residents of Hastings.
The first members to take degrees in Diamond Lodge were: —
Bishop Lawrence
H. C. Todd
Norman Secor
Daniel W. King
Lemuel W. Lawrence
Harry J. Parnell
George Storms
Samuel Elliot
Champion H. Judson
The Charter of the Lodge came along in due time and is dated June 13, 1865, it signed by —
Robert D. Holmes Grand Master
Stephen H. Johnson Deputy Grand Master
James Gibson Senior Grand Warden
John R. Anderson Junior Grand Warden
Diamond Lodge proudly displays this original Charter at each of its meetings.
Diamond Lodge was incorporated April, 1871.
Notwithstanding the rule that members were required to be present at each Lodge meeting or present a reasonable excuse for such
absence, otherwise a fine would be imposed, (the minutes indicate no such action.) Poor attendance then, as now seems to have
been a problem; at the October 12, 1877, meeting the Secretary was ordered to send a letter to the non-attending members urging
them to attend Lodge meetings and, at the beginning of 1879, he was ordered to report on the number of times each officer and
member attended Lodge in the previous year.
In the old days since the District Deputy Grand Master had a large territory to cover, it was customary for the host Lodge to defray
his traveling expenses, therefore, it may come as a surprise to the present day members to learn that in the minutes of March 20,
1881, meeting, the Secretary was ordered to send a letter to the then District Deputy Grand Master informing him that, on account of
the financial condition of the Lodge, they would be obliged to dispense with his services at that time.
In November 1878, Diamond Lodge held its first entertainment of which the net proceeds amounted to $32.00. Another
entertainment was scheduled for January 28th in the following year. The committee doubted that the Masonic Hall would hold the
large crowd expected. This entertainment netted $51.66.
In June 1879, the Lodge purchased its first organ made by the renowned firm of Horace Waters and Sons for the sum of $65.00, the
freight charge on same from New York City was 75 cents.
At the present time it is the custom to present to each candidate taking his Entered Apprentice degree, a Lambskin or White Leather
Apron. This custom originated in 1907, the first such apron being presented to Bro. William Pringle; prior to that time beginning in
1904, the Lodge used a symbolic apron.
THE GREATEST OF THESE IS CHARITY
Diamond has ever been in the forefront with respect to one of Masonry’s greatest tenets — CHARITY — In many instances acts of
charity were briefly mentioned in the minutes and, as is customary with ancient usage, the recipient’s names were never given.
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These acts usually took the form of cash donations, however, in one instance; it is recorded in the minutes that two tons of coal and
one barrel of flour were delivered to the widow of a Master Mason who belonged to another Lodge.
With the imminent destruction of the building in which the Lodge held its meetings for thirty-one years, the Lodge held its last
meeting in its first home on May I, 1895. A special meeting was called for that purpose. It then moved to rooms in the Oddfellows
Hall on Main Street, Dobbs Ferry.
OUR SECOND HOME
Oddfellows Hall
On May 8, 1895, the Lodge held its first meeting in its new quarters, the Oddfellows
Hall. It is interesting to note that for 29 years we were tenants of the Oddfellows and
that for some years past, they have been tenants of ours. The Lodge remained a
tenant of the Oddfellows until October 1, 1924, when it vacated the premises to move
to its own building. in many respects the new quarters were an improvement on the
old; illumination was by means of the new fangled gas jets and in candescent mantles;
gas was also used for cooking, payment being on the pay-as-you-go basis by
dropping a quarter in the meter. On some occasions considerable embarrassment
occurred when the lights began to dim and someone rose hurriedly to put another
quarter in the meter.
Many good times were had in this building, it is noted that the membership provided
its own entertainment, which, on several occasions, were selections played on a
member's gramophone. It was during this period that the annual custom of
entertaining the Ladies was inaugurated, the first “Ladies Night” being held on April
20, 1906.
In 1906 Diamond Lodge was honored by its first visit of an elected Grand Lodge
Officer in the person of M .'. W.'. M. Ehlers. Past Grand Master and at that time Grand
Secretary. Brother Ehlers raised one of the candidates in the third degree.
In 1909. the Lodge held it first “Fair’’. For this occasion hiring the village Town Hall.
The fair netted $1,354.30.
On November, 26, 1915, Diamond celebrated its fiftieth anniversary; it was a gala
affair attended by M.'.W.'. George Friefeld, Grand Master, accompanied by his Grand
Marshal. A large marquee tent was erected on one of the neighboring sites; games
ware held in the afternoon followed by a banquet in the evening. On this occasion, the Grand Master presented to Brother Charles
G. Storms, the only living Charter member, a Masonic apron.
In 19 I 6, the Lodge purchased a full set of uniforms for the degree team, the uniforms were first used on November 17, 1916;
undoubtedly they were of exceptionally good quality being retired in 1956 due, primarily to shrinkage after successive cleanings.
WAR ACTIVITIES
During the World War I period, Diamond Lodge displayed its patriotism by purchasing Liberty Bonds, by contributing to the Grand
Lodge War Relief Committee’s funds, by remitting the dues of any member in the services and by the comparatively large number of
its members of military age who served in the services. Twenty-eight members were called to the colors; two made the supreme
sacrifice; those who served were as follows: —
George Le Roy King Rev. W. R. Blackie Alfred G. Fuller
John J. McLave
Josiah Wright Julius Kloss Harold S. Knodel Alex M. White
H. J. Storant F. Ernest White Robert Mathieson James Clark
Earl L. Price Rev. G. M. Whitmore William Grantham Hassow Van Wedel
Clarence W. Hopper James Mc F. Rankin Frank A. Doerfler Frank H. Addyman
B. I. Emerich F. A. Graber E. Ernest Buckhout Hanford C. Judson
Joseph A. Algeo William E. McLave Nelson D. Brown N. M. Templeton
Similar services were again rendered in World War II when Diamond Lodge again co-operated to its fullest extent with Grand Lodge
in all its activities. During this war Sons of members in the services received special consideration from Brother Masons throughout
the world. Twenty-three members of Diamond Lodge served with the colors in World War II, their names follow: —
Arthur W. Booth George A. Maven Richard W. Batten John A. McGinness
John L. Conklin G. A. Petruzzelli Charles A. Wagner Walter C. Shorter
Fred W. Hildenbrand Reginald W. Stanhope William R. Bruch Bruce E. Thauburn
Edward M. Byrne Bernard A. Uhr Harry L. Cromer Ernest H. Uhr
Gunther Hahn Gardner P. Welch, Jr. Benjamin E. Hayes Clifford B. Adler
William C. Keller James Gaffney William A. Sargent
Both of the foregoing Service men's lists were prepared by the chairmen of the service men’s committees who undoubtedly made
every effort to have them complete, however, it is barely possible that someone’s name may have been omitted; if so, it is to be
regretted. In addition, 75 sons of members served in World War II, seven of whom made the supreme sacrifice.
In 1920 began what is known as “The Immediate Relief”. While not a Lodge function, it is restricted to members of the Lodge; it
provides payment of $100.00 to the widow of a member immediately after his death. When the fund reaches a predetermined level,
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an assessment is made upon the members of this association to restore it. The present assessment is $1.10 per member.
Membership in this association is strictly voluntary.
On May 21, 1920, Diamond Lodge celebrated its 55th anniversary. It was also the occasion of its 2,000th stated communication; on
this occasion M.'.W.'. Arthur S. Tompkins, then Deputy Grand Master attended.
In 1919, the Lodge gave serious consideration to acquiring its own building; in fact except for a few degree nights during the last
four years of its tenancy in the Oddfellows Hall, planning with this objective in mind, occupied most of the Lodge sessions.
Considerable discussions having taken place for many years prior to the erection of our new home, formal action was taken in 1923
when a Building Committee was appointed consisting of:
R.'.W.'. William A. Proudfoot, Chairman
Bro. Charles P. McClelland Bro. G. M. Pateman Bro. Ward W. Tompkins Bro. J. McCarthy
Building Fund committees were also appointed to canvass the members of the villages for the necessary funds with which to
complete the building: Bro. Adolph H. Knappe, a member of Diamond Lodge, who later affiliated with White Plains Lodge, was
chosen as the Architect. Bro. Knappe originally intended to donate his services but circumstance beyond his control prevented his
so doing.
In 1922, the Ways and Means Committee was authorized to purchase the Master’s property at the corner of Ashford and Bellewood
Avenues, Dobbs Ferry, on which they already had an option. The site fronts on Ashford Avenue for 120 feet and is 131 feet deep.
The asking price was $4,000; the Lodge was also given the opportunity to purchase an additional 150 feet on Bellewood Avenue for
$1,500 but apparently felt that it could not afford to do so. At this time upwards of $16,000 had been pledged by the members. As a
guide for financial requirements for constructing the Temple, an estimate of $75,000 was obtained. In June 1923, the Building
Committee of the Lodge accepted the plans for the Temple. They also met with the Ways and Means Committee to consider plans
whereby the project could be financed; the method adopted was a modified “Paterson, N. J.” plan by means of which subscriptions
of from $50.00 upwards were accepted, the average being $200.00 and for which “Certificates of Indebtedness” were issued to the
subscribers by the Lodge. Installment payments were accepted; these certificates, maturing at the death of the subscriber are
payable to an appointed beneficiary. To accomplish this a “Mortuary Fund” was set up to receive certain percentages of the Initiation
fees and Lodge dues. The percentages of Lodge dues have varied over the years and that portion of the initiation fee was dropped
some years ago. Additions were also to be made to this fund by proceeds from extra-curricular activities such as fairs etc., one of
the most picturesque and financially successful of these fairs being that held in October 1924, with a “Streets of Baghdad” motif,
designed by the Master, W.'. Robert G. Simpson; this fair netted $5,788.97.
To meet the necessary construction funds, loans were obtained from the commercial banks in Dobbs Ferry, Irvington and Hastings.
Bro. Ward W. Tompkins provided the remaining funds for which the Lodge gave him a mortgage originally at 6% but later reduced to
4% Upon the death of the mortgagor in 1945, it was necessary to satisfy the mortgage by issuing more “Certificates of
Indebtedness” bearing interest at 2 %. It was also stipulated at this time that holders of the former non-interest bearing certificates
could also become interest-bearing upon request; not many members availed themselves of this privilege. As a further effort to
obtain ready cash for this fund, arrangements were set up in 1923 whereby “Life” memberships could be purchased by paying a
lump sum of $2.00 per year or fraction thereof between the then age and 100. Throughout the many economic ups and downs of the
funds of the Lodge, this fund has been adequate to achieve its mission and in 1963, foreseeing that sufficient funds were available
or apparently about to become available whereby all out standing certificates could be redeemed in approximately five years, the
certificate holders were canvassed and the majority agreed to the following proposition: — a total disbursement to be made from this
fund each year amounting to $3,000 which includes settlements of certificates by death and dire need, these being given priority,
after which the remainder of the $3,000 would be paid to living certificate holders who had accepted the proposition, the payments
to be drawn by lot.
It is expected that, after 1969, it will no longer be necessary to credit the present $5.00 deduction from the dues of each dues-paying
member, thus increasing the amount available in the General Fund for operating expenses.
In November 1923, bids were received for the construction of the Temple which ranged from $69,000 to $84,000; a motion was then
carried which authorized the Building Committee to proceed with the building of the Temple at a cost not to exceed $65,000. The
contract to build the Temple was given to Bros. Classon and Parkhurst of New York City for the sum of $63,068, work to begin
within 48 hours after the Architect approved the plans.
The following figures taken from the Trustees’ December 1930 report may be of interest.
Cost of Land 4,000
Cost of Building 77,973
Cost of Furniture 3,284
Cost of Carpet 634
Total of above $85,891
To which should be added the architect’s fee of $1400.
Making a grand total of $87,291.
The Building Committee stated that the contractors explained that the excess above the contract price was occasioned by “weather
conditions, higher wages, other labor conditions and overhead.” The Building Committee regretted that the contractors failed to live
up to the verbal and written assurance to stay within the contract price.
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On Washington’s Birthday, 1924, the cornerstone of the Temple was well and truly laid according to ancient usage and ceremony by
the Grand Master, M.'.W.'. Arthur S. Tompkins, the trowel used being furnished by the Past Masters of Diamond Lodge. This trowel,
now in the possession of the Lodge, was passed along to Grand Master Klink by Mrs. Tompkins in 1923, Grand Master Klink, in
turn, re-presented it to the Lodge.
The Temple was dedicated in ancient form on September 19, 1924, by Grand Master M.'. W.'. William M. Rowan; the Grand Master
was assisted by other members of the Grand Lodge staff. There were some 98 Lodges represented at this dedication including 11
from Scotland; these with their proud hosts, numbering about 500 crowded every available space in the new Lodge room, while
about 300 were regretfully turned away. The Grand Master complimented all, who in any way, had contributed to the completion of
this Temple which had placed a hallmark on the community. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Grand Master turned the gavel
over to the Master, W.’. Bro. Robert G. Simpson, who opened the Lodge for its 1,666th communication. At that time the Lodge had a
membership of 350, coming from Dobbs Ferry, Ardsley, Irvington and Hastings.
As previously stated, the Temple is situated on Ashford Avenue. Dobbs Ferry. The plot of ground is 120 by 131 feet; the building is
three stories in height of early and classical architecture. The brick bonding on Ashford Avenue is of a Diamond pattern; the
dimensions of the building are 42 by 58 feet, 19 feet high; the Lodge room has classical pilasters and cornices and an organ loft. An
ante room and a preparation room fill out the second floor; on the lower floors are located a Banquet Hall 30 by 46 and 14 feet high
with stage, a kitchen and caretakers quarters; on the third floor there is a club room with open fireplace and is now furnished with
two pool tables, card tables, etc.; adequate ventilation is supplied by two special exhaust units. All in all, this handsome fire-resistant
Temple is a worthy monument to the Craft and an ornament to the Community.
That the Temple was excellently constructed is evidenced by the fact that no major repairs have been made since its erection forty
years ago. The walls of the Lodge room were washed once, repainted in 1950 and again in 1965; in both instances funds for which
were donated by the members. Also in 1965, in honor of the 100th anniversary, a new carpet was laid at a cost of $2,005, a far cry
from the cost of the original carpet which cost $634. New Officers’ aprons and jewel cords were also purchased during this year.
Through the efforts of the then Master, W.'. William F. Keller, the members contributed for the purchase of a new Hammond Electric
Organ which was in stalled in November 1952, the cost being $2,533.75. This is also in strong contrast to the price of the first organ
purchased in 1879 for $65.00 plus 75 cents freight. The new organ has proved to be quite an asset in the ritualistic ceremonies.
Diamond Lodge’s Temple, situated on one of the main thorough fares of the village and easily accessible to all parts of the County,
is admirably suited for fraternal meetings. At the present time its fraternal tenants consist of Hastings Lodge, No. 1107, F. & A. M.;
Irving Chapter, No. 526, O.E.S.; Royal Arcanum; Oddfellows; Dobbs Ferry Rod and Gun Club, and Alecto Court, No. 71, L.O.S.N.A..
Committee meetings in connection with the activities of the First Westchester- Putnam District Association are frequently held there.
Unfortunately, these activities occur only in the evenings and, as the Temple was not constructed to permit its use for offices, stores,
etc and other day time revenue-producing purposes, only minimum revenue of such can he realized. With continuing rising taxes,
higher insurance premiums, higher utility costs and other necessary operating expenses, the Lodge is frequently beset with financial
difficulties which can only be overcome by additional revenue, frequently obtained by donations from the membership. Nevertheless,
the members of Diamond Lodge are extremely happy and proud in the possession of their own home.
Over the years, beginning with the organization of the Lodge, many, many gifts have been made to the Lodge by Irving Chapter,
O.E.S., Hastings Lodge and many individuals. Many of these gifts were mentioned in the Lodge minutes, and some were not. To all,
including the many anonymous donors, we again say thank you.
LABOR AND REFRESHMENT
Upon occupying its new Temple, Diamond Lodge experienced a rejuvenation of Masonic activity; in 1925, thirty members were
raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason, the first to be raised in the new Temple being Bro. Rene Daubenhis, now a life
member of Diamond Lodge. Although the Secretaries’ reports of the membership of the Lodge are missing for a number of years, it
appears the Lodge continued to grow in membership, apparently reaching a peak at the end of 1928 of 445 members. The
membership roster after that date began to show a downward trend, being seriously affected by the depression of 1929, but not
seriously felt until 1933 when, following the trend of Masonry in New York State, many members were unaffiliated for non-payment
of dues. Membership again picked up after World War II reaching a new peak in 1950 of 322 members, after which again following
the trend of the state, it has steadily declined. It is seriously hoped that this continuing downward trend will soon be reversed. -
One of the social events remembered by the old-timers was a trip to Washington, D. C. on March 20, 1925. From all accounts a
good time was had by all. The all-expense trip cost $25.00, which included meals and hotel expenses.
On April 26th, 1906, the first Ladies night was held; this has been an annual custom ever since.
Prior to February 1925, it was the custom for the candidates to defray the cost of the Masonic Holy Bible presented to them at their
initiation; on that date a motion was passed, so that thereafter, the Bibles were presented as a gift from the Lodge. The “Bible
Presentation” is now a very impressive ceremony in the Entered Apprentice Degree.
For a number of years after the Lodge occupied its own Temple, no outstanding event worthy of note appears to have occurred but,
on February 3, 1939, Bro. Ward W. Tompkins, raised in Diamond Lodge January 15, 1869, was presented with his 70-year palm,
denoting seventy years membership in the Fraternity. This was a very special and outstanding night in Diamond Lodge; the Lodge
room was filled to capacity to felicitate Bro. Tompkins on this important occasion. The New York Masonic Outlook published a
glowing account of this occasion, accompanied by many illustrations. Later on January 21, 1944, the seventy-five-year palm was
presented to Brother Tompkins at his home, he not being well enough to attend Lodge for this occasion but, on April 7, 1944, a
grand reception was given to this venerable veteran at which he was able to attend for only a short time. Grand Master Strang and
members of his staff journeyed to Dobbs Ferry for this auspicious occasion to congratulate the then fourth oldest Mason in the State
of New York; Brother Tompkins was then 98 years old. M.'. W.’. Harold V. B. Voorhis, Past Grand Master of New Jersey, had been
compiling records of Masons with over 70 years of membership in the fraternity and, from his record of over 4,000,000 Masons in
the world, Brother Tompkins was then the 11th oldest. Bro. Tompkins passed away on June 18, 1944.
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Another outstanding night was the “Ravekes” night held on February 6, 1942, celebrating 112 years of membership in Diamond
Lodge by the three Ravekes brothers. Worshipful Brother John, raised June I7, 1892, was elected Master for the year of 1903 and
for many years was its faithful and zealous Secretary, retiring from that position in December 1947, when the title of “Secretary
Emeritus” was conferred upon him. At that time Brother John was presented with a golden book with names of all the Lodge
members who had contributed to this testimony to him. Brother John passed away on June 17, 1960. Worshipful Brother Fred
Ravekes was raised June 21, 1907, and be came Master of the Lodge in 1915, among his many Masonic activities he will long be
remembered as being a formidable member of the degree team. Brother Fred passed away on March 16, 1951.
Brother Dave Ravekes, who was raised April 3, 1914, never aspired to go through the chairs. However, he became for many years,
the Lodge’s very efficient Secretary, Brother Dave was also for many years, the very capable organist for the Lodge. Brother Dave
received his 50-year Grand Lodge button in 1964. Now retired, his home and gardens are one of the show places in Dobbs Ferry.
Over the years Diamond Lodge has never had a Fellowcraft Club under that name; at one time in the thirties, there existed for many
years a social organization known as “The Sparklers” which did much to further harmony in the Lodge and assist in its extracurricular
activities. In 1959, another group named “The Diamond Builders” was created. This group, now in existence, does much
to further friendship and good fellowship in the Lodge. One of their activities has been for years to distribute plants and gifts to the
widows of our Master Masons at Christmas and Easter, funds for which are furnished by a free will offering from the Lodge
members.
W.’. Warren Crawford Master
James W. Lundy Senior Warden
Alan C. Klip Junior Warden
W.’. William Z. Lindsey Treasurer
Clifford Wistrand Ass’t Treasurer
W.’. H. Stuart Kamke Secretary
W.’. Robert L. Bronnes Chaplain
William H. Mawhinney Chaplain
Richard O. Sweet Sr. Deacon
Kenneth C. Purdy Jr. Deacon
THE ANNIVERSARY YEAR
1965 Officers of Diamond Lodge No. 555, F. & a. M.
Herbert C. Byrnes Sr. M. of C.
Russell A. Ennis Jr. M. of C.
Charles E. Mathies Marshal
James L. McGraw Steward
John P. Robertson Steward
Harold Greene Tiler
R.’.W.’. E. Reginald Harris Historian
W.’. LeRoy H. Brooks Trustee 1 yr.
W.’. Albert Howell Trustee 2 yrs.
Reginald Stanhope Trustee 3 yrs.
The year 1965 w marked by several special events. The frontispiece of the Lodge bulletins was produced in color, the scene
depicting Captain Pateman’s sloop, “The Diamond”, sailing up the Hudson River; a special medal was struck for each member as a
souvenir of the occasion; W.’. Warren Crawford and the elected and appointed officers were installed in their offices and places by
R.’.W.’. Lyle Johnson, Junior Past District Deputy Grand Master, on Friday, January 5th. The annual dinner dance honoring the
Junior Past Master, W.’. Robert L. Bronnes was held on February 20th. The official visit of the District Deputy Grand Master, R.’.W.’.
Marvin Ross, was made on March 5th. One of the real highlights of the year was the dinner dance held on May 1st, seated at the
guest table were R.’.W.’. Marvin and Mrs. Ross, R.’.W.’. and Mrs. J. Henry Templeton, Jr., at that time the senior Past Master of
Diamond, who we regret to say passed away a few days later; Rev. G. M. Whitmore and the Worshipful Master and Mrs. Crawford.
This memorable event was very well attended and was a great social success.
At the May 2 communication, the members with 40, 50 and 60 years membership in the fraternity were honored, the speaker on this
occasion being M.’.W.’. Harry Ostrov, Junior Past Grand Master of Masons in the State of New York who delivered a very inspiring
address. At a special communication held on Saturday, September 11th, we were honored with the presence of The Most
Worshipful Clarence J. Henry, Grand Master of Masons in the State of New York. This was a memorable occasion for Diamond
Lodge, who, in its hundred years of existence, had been honored by the presence of the Grand Master-in-Office on only three
occasions, The Grand Master delivered a very eloquent address which was warmly received by the members of Diamond Lodge
and its many visitors. The Grand Master was accompanied by his Grand Marshal, R.’.W.’. Howard W. Niven, the Grand Treasurer,
R.’.W.’. Edward Lowy and R.’.W.’. John M. Biggs, Senior Grand Deacon. On October 1st, the Lodge again welcomed the members
of Hastings Lodge on their annual visit to Diamond Lodge and on October 15th following an annual custom originated on April 20th,
1906, we played host to the Ladies at “Ladies Night”.
On November 5th our guests were our good friends and benefactors, the members of Solomon’s Lodge of Tarrytown. On November
19th, we had as guest speaker R.’.W.’. Walter G. Seely, member of the Grand Lodge Youth Council, who delivered a splendid
address.
As this material goes to press, plans are being made for our annual Christmas Party to be tendered the children, in which in recent
years we have been joined by Irving Chapter, No. 526, O.E.S. and Hastings Lodge, No. 1107. F. & A. M.
Thus ends the History of the first hundred years of Diamond Lodge, No. 555, F. & A. M. As we look in retrospect over this century,
we are proud and well satisfied as to its accomplishments and as the torch of Freemasonry was handed to us by its forbears, so do
we pass along this torch to Diamond’s successors with the hope that it will be proudly carried high with renewed vigor.
1965 to 1990
Sydney A. Fried, Historian
The story of Diamond Lodge from 1965 to 1990 has been anything but static. Many important events have taken place, some for the
better and some for the worse.
Probably the most important event of the past twenty- five years was the sale of our Dobbs Ferry Temple in 1981 and the move by
Diamond Lodge from the quarters it had built and occupied since 1924. For many years, it had become increasingly difficult to
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alance the Temple’s income with its overhead. Increases in taxes, fuel, utilities, losses of rental income and maintenance of an
aging building, resulted in ever-increasing deficits, in spite of flea markets, fairs and other fund raisers.
For many years, mortgage costs had been financed by building certificates, which had been purchased by the Brethren. Some of
these, determined by lottery, were retired annually, and the last one was paid off in 1971. A number of Brethren or their estates
generously contributed the amount represented by these certificates to the Lodge.
Later, there were drives for a painting fund, a carpet fund, a kitchen fund, etc. Much painting, carpentry, electric and similar work
was performed by the Brothers of Diamond Lodge.
The monetary problems were worsened, or perhaps, due to the fact that both membership and Lodge attendance were decreasing.
In 1924, when the new Temple was dedicated, Diamond Lodge had 350 brothers. In 1956, when the Lodge’s Centennial was
celebrated, there were 255. In 1974, when the Temple was re-dedicated on its 50th Anniversary by Grand Master Arthur Markewich,
there were 176. At the start of 1989, the rolls dropped below 100 for the first time. Not only were the rolls decreasing, but the
average age was increasing, and many had retired and moved away from the area. Others were too advanced in years to take an
active part in the workings of the Lodge.
The 97 members of Diamond Lodge in December 1989 had 61 zip codes, and resided in 13 states; 53 in New York, 17 in Florida, 5
in Connecticut, 4 each in California and New Jersey, 3 each in Massachusetts and North Carolina, 2 each in Colorado and
Pennsylvania, and 1 each in Delaware, South Carolina, Virginia and Alabama.
Finally, in August 1980, it was voted to sell our Lodge building. In March 1981, we moved to the Hartsdale Square Club where we
remained until the economy caught up to them and they were forced to sell their building. This resulted in our move back to site of
our Mother Lodge, Solomon’s, in Tarrytown in June 1987.
Not every sad story has a sad ending. In this case, it turned out that the ever present money problems we had in Dobbs Ferry were
solved by the realization and investment of the proceeds of the sale of the Temple which, if prudently preserved, should permit our
Lodge to continue its work without Brother Damocles interfering.
Thank you, Builders of the Dobbs Ferry Temple. Your Legacy is alive and well and back in Tarrytown, where it all began.
Another event to be noted, that occurred towards the end of this fifth quarter of our existence, was the demise of Irving Chapter,
OE.S. These noble ladies, dedicated to the same principles and beliefs as we are, and so helpful to us in many ways, found
themselves unable to continue, even with our help. Some joined other chapters, but Irving Chapter is no more.
The Latest, and very important change which occurred in the past twenty-five years, took place at the last meeting of that period -
the official merger of Diamond Lodge No. 555 with Thistle Lodge No. 900. Thistle, a Yonkers lodge, with whom Diamond has
had the most cordial and fraternal relationship over the years, found itself with an adequate treasury, a membership of over 200
Brothers, some of the most proficient Masons in our District, and yet unable to fill the complete line of Officers and barely able to
muster a quorum to conduct Lodge business on several occasions. Their 1989 Master was serving his fifth term in that Chair and
their choices were either to merge with another Lodge or surrender their Charter.
They approached Diamond Lodge about a merger, because of our past relationship and their appreciation of our continued
participation in community service and Widows’ Program in spite of diminishing numbers. A year of conferences, consultations with
Grand Lodge about necessary procedures, discussions and votes by both Lodges, finally resulted in the official formation of
Diamond Thistle Lodge No. 555, on December 15, 1989.
This infusion of new Brothers, with their colorful and popular plaid-clad Fellowcraft Degree team, the flag presentation ceremony,
their Robert Burns Night and all the rest of their traditions will surely make Diamond Thistle Lodge No. 555, a vital Masonic
institution.
Now that we have covered the big stuff, let’s go back to 1965 and see what Diamond Lodge has been up to since then. First, Let us
pause a minute to realize that the Lodge Communication at which the 1990 officers were installed was No. 2869. That is TWO
THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED and SIXTY-NINE MEETINGS, since No. 1 was convened in 1865. Can you comprehend that figure,
realizing that it consisted of only one or two per month, with none in July or August? We are truly old, not decrepit old, but traditional
old, established old, aged-in-the-wood old, solid old. We bear the standard created, nurtured and loved by our Masonic forebears,
and we dare not, for one solitary instant, consider any possibility that we will not pass it on, undiminished, to our successors, even to
the 3,000th, even to the 4,000th Communication.
Throughout its history, Diamond has always promoted Fellowship and practiced Charity, and sometimes combined the two, so that
funds raised by the first were used for the second. One project was a golf hole-in-one contest. For a dollar, contestants got three
tries, a coke and a hot dog, and Dobbs Ferry Hospital benefited from the proceeds. Boat rides, barbecues, musical shows, ladies
nights, New Year’s Eve parties, were only some of the well-supported functions.
Community service and contributions to the Research Laboratory at Utica were combined when Brothers participated regularly in
the Ardsley Recycling Program, and then turned over the fee received from the sale of the recycled products to the Masonic
Laboratory.
In recent years, Diamond has made substantial contributions to the Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Volunteer Fire Departments and
Libraries of Ardsley, Dobbs Ferry and Irvington, as well as to Dobbs Ferry Hospital and the Rosary Hill Nursing Home in Hawthorne.
Regularly, Diamond lodge was at the top of the First Westchester-Putnam District for contributions to the Masonic Brotherhood
Fund.
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Every Easter and Christmas, the Lodge remembers its Widows and shut-ins by hand-delivering gifts to those in the immediate area
and by mailing gifts and cards to others who do not reside nearby. Plants and flowers are taken to Rosary Hill semi-annually to help
brighten the Home and bring cheer to the lives of its guests.
Over the years, Diamond has worked in conjunction with a number of other lodges on different projects. A joint effort by Diamond,
Solomon’s and Hastings to establish a DeMolay Chapter eventually succeeded after many years of effort, but, unfortunately, the
Chapter did not last. The Brothers of Diamond and Hastings Lodges, for some time, combined in a Degree team. Hastings Lodge
and Irving Chapter, O.E.S., for many years, teamed up with Diamond Lodge to sponsor an annual Christmas party for the children.
The Brothers of Diamond Lodge exchanged visits with Hopewell Lodge, a Bronx Lodge which met in the Dobbs Ferry Temple until
1977.
Diamond made its presence felt in the First Westchester Putnam District. From 1965 to 1990, Diamond Lodge had four District
Deputies, three Assistant Grand Lecturers and two Grand Representatives. Eight Brothers were awarded aprons for Dedicated
Service to the Fraternity. Other Brothers have held office in both the District Association and the Masters and Wardens Association.
A Masonic Lodge does not live in a vacuum. An understanding of its activities must take the surrounding circumstances into
consideration. Not only is it necessary to be aware of what other Lodges are experiencing to evaluate what is happening in our own
Lodge, but it requires reference to newspapers to relate what we do to what is happening in the community and the world. During
the period 1965-1990, the number of Lodges in the District decreased from twenty- three to thirteen, by merger or surrender of
Charter. Nearly every Lodge suffered a substantial toss in the number of Brothers on its rolls. Inflation raised its ugly head, savagely
increasing the cost of everything from postage stamps, to rent, to anything you can name.
Yet in 1965, the dues of Diamond had just been raised to $25 and in 1990 the dues had risen only to $32.50, due primarily to an
increase in per capita paid to Grand Lodge. Do you know anything else that has increased in cost only 30% in the last 25 years?
Another timely comparison is the price of the 100th Anniversary Dinner in 1965 - $9.00 - to the 125th Anniversary Dinner in 1990 -
$40.00 - about 450%.
The 100th Anniversary History noted that 29 Lodges, including Diamond, were chartered by Grand Lodge in June 1865, and that all
were still in existence in 1965. In preparing this up-date, an inquiry to the Grand Secretary revealed that alt but one were still in
existence, although several had merged with other Lodges. A letter was sent to all 27 of these brother 125 year old Lodges to inform
them of our plans to celebrate our century and a quarter birthday, inquire how they planned to celebrate this occasion and how well
they were carrying their age. Not one response was received, even though a follow-up letter was also sent by the Grand Secretary
to the Secretaries of each of these Lodges.
GRAND LODGE APPOINTMENTS
Over the one hundred years of its existence Diamond Lodge has been honored by many Grand Lodge appointments, a list of such
follows: —
5 Jan 1906 R.’.W.’. Joseph Dunbar was presented with his commission as Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of
Western Australia near the Grand Lodge of the State of New York.
16 Jan 1922 R.'.W.'. A. Proudfoot appointed Grand Steward.
Jun 1925 R.'.W.'. William Johnstone appointed District Deputy Grand Master of the First-Westchester Putnam District.
Jun 1928 R.'.W.'. Herbert W. Jewell appointed Grand Steward.
3 Jun 1938 R..W.’. Seitz appointed District Deputy Grand Master of the First Westchester-Putnam District.
Jun 1946 R. C. Blackmar appointed Grand Sword Bearer.
May 1952 R.’.W.’. J. Henry Templeton appointed Grand Director of Ceremonies.
4 Nov 1960 R.’.W.’. E. Reginald Harris appointed Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of New Brunswick near the Grand
Lodge. of the State of New York.
Jun 1963 R.’.W.’. Lyle Johnson appointed District Deputy Grand Master of the First Westchester Putnam District.
1864-67 Wilsea, Abraham O.
1868-73 King, Daniel W.
1874-75 Lefurgy, Martin
1876 Wilsea, Abraham O
1877-78 Dunbar, Joseph
1879 Nix, Adam
1880-01 Jewell, Thomas A.
1882-83 von Wallmenich, Charles
1884-85 McClave, John S.
1886 Gisner, Charles
1887-88 Wheeler, Jacob T.
1889 Fursey, John
1894-95 Dutcher, Edwin W.
1896-97 Drury, Mark
1898-99 Wheeler, Jacob T
1900-02 McConnell, Charles
1890-03 Jewell, Thomas A.
1903 Ravekes, John H.
1904 Dutcher, Edwin W
1905-06 Johnstone, William
1907 King, George W.
PAST MASTERS OF DIAMOND LODGE
1908 Lorenzen, Edmund I .
1909 Johnstone, William
1910-11 Polhamus, Arthur
1912 Hemstreet, George P.
1913-14 Jewell Herbert
1915 Ravekes, Frederick W.
1916 Proudfoot, William
1917 Mathieson, Robert
1918 Seger, J. William
1919-20 Warren, Spalding E.
1921 Templeton, J., Henry, Jr.
1922 Campbell, Hector R.
1923-24 Simpson, Robert G.
1925 Raban, Frederick
1926 Benedict, Warren D.
1927 Palmer, August W.
1928 Kedney, William M.
1929 Abercrombie, Robert H.
1930 Hannan, James, Jr.
1931 Seitz, Anton
1932 Rudolph, Charles K.
1933 McGinness, John A.
1934 Mathieson, Roderick
1935 Rudolph, Harry G.
1936 Howe, Charles E.
1937 Edwards, Bertsil D.
1938-39 Blackmar, Arthur
1940 Geis, Ernest
1941 Riefenhauser, Frank A.
1942 Thauburn, Bruce E.
1943 Kamke, H. Stuart
1944 Blackmar, Arthur
1945 Lindsey, William Z.
1946 Robbins, S. J.
1947 Brooks, LeRoy H.
1948 Harris, E. Reginald
1949 Philpott, Norman C.
1950 Wilson, Wesley L.
1951 Keller, William F.
1952 Blackburn, Philip W.
1953 Edwards, Orville D.
1954 Caldwell, Alvin V. B.
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1955 Howell, Albert
1956 Derbyshire, John T.
1957 Turner, Matthew W.
1958 Leadbetter, Edwin J.
1959 Johnson, A. Lyle
1960 Elder, Harry C.
1961 Duda, Charles J.
1962 McPhee, Donald
1963 Rosvally, George C.
1964 Bronnes, Robert L.
1965 Crawford, Warren X.
1966 Lundy, James W.
1967 Bronnes, Robert L.
1968 Gagliardi, Joseph
1969 Sinners, James N.
1970 McGraw, James L.
1971 Robertson, John P.
1972-73 Giroux, Martin J.
1974 Robertson, John P.
1975 Matthies, Charles E.
1976 Reader, Herbert
1977 Klein, Lawrence
1978-79 Battestin, Henry F., Jr.
1980-81 Prescott, Henry E., Jr.
1982 Fellis, E. John
1983 Harris, Bernard
1984 Dreaper, Thomas S.
1985 Reader, Herbert
1986-87 Bronnes, Robert L.
1988 Prescott, Henry E., Jr.
1989 Fried, Sydney A.
What about the future? As our 125th year dawned, so did a lovely warm light on the horizon - the sight of a sizeable group of men
on the Trestle Board, most of whom having been introduced to the virtues of Freemasonry by the Anniversary Master, W.’. Gerald
Buch, the youngest sitting Master of Diamond since the mind of man runneth not to the contrary.
Note the emphasis on YOUNG. Old may be experienced and wise, but youth brings with it the vitality and the enthusiasm to
encourage the elders that this Lodge, which is a part of us, will continue eternal in the Heavens, when we have passed upward and
inward through the Pearly Gates.
As this material goes to press, we are looking forward to the Official Visit of our Grand Master, M.’.W.’. Richard P. Thomas on
November 16th to commemorate the 125th anniversary of our Lodge and to mark the competition of the first leg of our second
hundred years.
We can look back with pride and forward with hope, that the high standards of Freemasonry have been and will continue to be a rule
and guide for our practice through life.
Diamond Thistle Lodge No. 555, Tarrytown, New York
Warrant: 15 Dec 1989 [see above]
Master W.’. Gerald G. Buch, Jr
Sr. Warden W.’. Henry E. Prescott, Jr
Jr. Warden W.’. Robert E. Knesnik
Treasurer Bro. Edward Schmid
Secretary R.’.W.’. Henry F. Battestin, Jr
Chaplain W.’. Sydney A. Fried
Sr. Deacon Bro. Robert Blank
Jr. Deacon W.’. James M. Wilson
Senior M. of C. Bro. William H. Seery
Junior M. of C. Bro. Nelson N. Childs, Jr
Steward Bro. Mauricio A. Loo
Marshal W.’.. Hugh C. Beveridge
Tiler Bro. Allan L. Townsend
Trustees Bro. Allan L. Townsend 1 year
W.’. Hugh C. Beveridge 2 years
W.’. Sydney A. Fried 3 years
Mamaro Lodge No. 653, Port Chester, New York
Warrant: ca 1867
1990 Diamond Thistle Lodge Officers
http://www.electricscotland.com/history/descendants/chap39.htm
Thomas J. Blain, one of the most popular and respected citizens of Westchester County and
an enterprising publisher of Port Chester, NY, was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, 1 Sep 1861,
son of Thomas and Eliza Ireland Blain. His father was of an old Ayrshire family, and his mother
a native of K.irkcudbright, both descendants of farmers.Mr. Blain received his education in St.
Stephen’s School, Edinburgh, where he afterward taught for five years. He came to New York
in 1881 and was employed on several daily and weekly newspapers about New York City until
1887, when he left the Flushing, NY, Journal to take a place on the staff of the Port Chester
Enterprise. He became the owner of the Enterprise in 1891 and established the Port Chester
Daily Item in 1899. He now operates a large printing and publishing plant, publishes a daily
newspaper of large circulation throughout Westchester County and eastern Connecticut, and
does an extensive business in commercial and law printing.
Mr. Blain is a member of the St. Andrew’s Society of the State of New York, Burns Society,
Scottish Society, and Scottish Home Rule Association, New York; and of Mamaro Lodge, F&
AM, Armour Chapter, R. A. M., Bethlehem Commandery, KT. and Mecca Temple, AAONMS;
the Port Chester Lodge of Elks, Red Men, Foresters, Knights of Pythias, Royal Arcanum, and
Order of Scottish Clans.
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Mr. Blain married, 4 May 1902, Emma Eugenia Wood, d/o the late Thomas Wood, of Roslyn, NY. She died 14 Jul 1902. On 30 Apr
1904, he married her sister, Mary E. Olmsted Wood. Their beautiful home in Port Chester is noted for its taste and hospitality; Mr.
and Mrs. Blain’s generosity is extended to every deserving cause. Mr. Blain is a vestryman of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. Mrs.
Blain has contributed liberally to the local hospital, and for many years has served as its Secretary. Mr. Blain visits Scotland every
second year and takes a deep interest in everything pertaining to his native land. Both he and his wife are fond of motoring and
have taken many long trips through New England and elsewhere.
---http://greenevillesun.com/obit/281284
John Nielsen, 91, of Morningside of Greeneville, formerly of Ocala, FL, died Thursday afternoon at Takoma Adventist Hospital.
Mr. Nielsen retired in 1973 as a research attorney for Liberty Mutual Insurance Co. in New York, NY, and moved to Florida to enjoy
his retirement. He was a member of Mamaro Lodge No. , F&AM. He was graduated from Alfred University and the Fordham Law
School. Survivors include his wife: Anne Marie Meier Nielsen of Morningside; and a daughter and son-in-law: Marsie Nielsen and
Stephen Desidero of Mosheim. He was preceded in death by a son, William John Nielsen. [Published 30 Dec 1999]
----
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_4_Q_to_Z.htm
Benjamin I. Taylor (1877-1946) U.S. Congressman to 63rd Congress, 1913-15, from 25th N.Y. dist. b. Dec. 21, 1877 in New York.
Graduate of Columbia U. Law School in 1899. Began practice at Port Chester, N.Y. in same year. Received degrees in Mamaro
Lodge No. 653, Port Chester, N.Y., Jan. 25, Feb. 8, 25, 1904. Dimitted in 1928 to become a member of Harrison Lodge No. 1093,
Harrison, N.Y., June 5, 1928. d. Sept. 5, 1946.
John Jay Lodge No. 653, Port Chester, New York
Warrant: ca 1867
http://www.johnjaymason.com/
Meets at 262 Martine Ave. White Plains, NY 10601
Marble Lodge No. 702, Tuckahoe, New York
http://familytreemaker.genealogy.com/users/l/e/g/David-Leggett-VA/WEBSITE-0001/UHP-0413.html
Samuel Leggett (son of Samuel Leggett) b. 10 Sep 1828 in New York City; d. 14 May 1873 in West Farms, Westchester, NY; an
apparent suicide; bur. Plot, Lot E 1/2 2500, Sec. 9 & 16, Spring Lake, Woodlawn Cemetery, Bronx, NY; m. 25 Jun 1849 Ann Eliza
Pollen of New York at Flushing, d/o George Parbury Pollen, an old and well known New York merchant.
Children:
i. Linda Leggett, b. ca 1850; d. 7 Nov 1932, 29th St. & Madison Ave., New York, NY? (late residence).
ii. Clarence P. Leggett.
iii. Mary Leggett.
iv. Emma Leggett.
v. George W. Leggett, b. 26 May 1861, d. 5 Oct 1891, Santa Barbara, CA? (late residence).
New York Times, May 19, 1873
Funeral of Port Warden Leggett
The funeral of Mr. Samuel6 Leggett, of this City, took place at Woodlawn Cemetery yesterday, in the presence of about 1,000
persons, including a very large representation of the Masonic fraternity. The funeral services, according to the rites of the Protestant
Episcopal Church, were performed by Rev. A.M. Ives, Rector of St. John's Church, Tuckahoe, at the close of which the assemblage
proceeded in carriages, eighty in number, in the following order, under the command of J.T. Underhill, Grand Marshal of the day:
Marble Lodge No. 702, of Tuckahoe, of which the deceased was the Master: Hiawatha Lodge No. 434, of Mount Vernon;
Huguenot Lodge No. 448, of New Rochelle; White Plains Lodge No. 473; Rising Star Lodge No. 450, of Yonkers; Company A,
Seventh Regiment National Guard New York State; and Port Wardens of New York, under Gen. Robinson. The hearse, containing
the remains of the deceased, with Hon. J.C. Courter, Mayor of Yonkers; Dr. Crane, Dr. Nordquist, George Ferris, S.B. Jones, and
Charles Hodgman as pall-bearers, and office of the Yonkers Commandery No. 47, of Knight Templars. Then followed the widow,
two daughters and two sons of the deceased, and a large circle of relatives and friends. Among those present was a son of Gov.
Dix, an intimate friend of the deceased, together with a number of bankers and merchants of this city.
On reaching the receiving vault at Woodlawn Cemetery the usual impressive Masonic ceremonies were performed by Past District
Deputy Grand Master Stephen S. Marshall, of White Plains.
New York Times, March 15, 1878
A WESTCHESTER TRAGEDY
A MOTIVELESS MURDER AND SUICIDE
Theron Merritt, of East Chester, Kills Mrs. Samuel Leggett and Himself - Temporary Insanity the Cause - Both Parties Highly
Connected - A Complete History of the Affair - The Coroner's Inquest
One of the most shocking tragedies in the history of Westchester County occurred yesterday afternoon in the township of East
Chester, just north of the Bronx River, which flows between it and the Village of Tuckahoe. About half a mile above the river, and
about 300 feet back of the Scarsdale road, on the top of a gently-sloping hill stands a large double cottage, painted yellow, with
brown trimmings, and surrounded by a wide veranda. It is approached from the road on two sides by winding wagon paths. On the
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north, removed a short distance, are handsome wooden stables, painted to correspond with the house. The grounds are tastefully
laid out, but are evidently new, and the house does not appear to have been long built. This is, or was, the residence of Mrs. Ann
Eliza Leggett, a wealthy widow, and her four unmarried children - a son and three daughters, all grown up. Mrs. Leggett's husband,
Samuel Leggett, was found dead in his barn, with several bullet-holes in his body, seven or eight years ago. The mystery of his
death was never cleared up; but as he was financially embarrassed at the time, and had been depressed in spirits for a long time
previous, the theory of suicide was accepted as the true one. He was at one time a Port Warden of New York, and received his
appointment, although a strong Democrat, at the hands of Gen. John A. Dix, who was his intimate personal friend. Mrs. Leggett was
the daughter of George Parbury Pollen, an old and well-known New York merchant, who made a fortune in the Brooklyn White Lead
Works and in the Colgate & Company Soap Works, and retired from business 20 years ago. He died last August, leaving
$1,000,000 to be divided between Mrs. Leggett and his only other child, the wife of Mr. Leopold Schmidt, of this City, whose father
was the first German Consul to this port. Mr. Schmidt was himself Vice-Consul of Germany and also Consul of Baden at New York,
and was until recently a member of the old German mercantile house of J.P. Schmidt & Co. He is a member of the Union Club, and
widely known in Metropolitan social circles. Mrs. Leggett's eldest son (Clarence119-g7Le7) married a daughter of ex-judge Burwell,
formerly of Buffalo, but for 20 years past a resident of Tuckahoe, and a practicing lawyer of this city. He resides with his wife in Fiftysixth
street, and has been for some years past Paying Teller of the German-American Bank.
Two other daughters of ex-judge Burwell married sons of Jacob P. Merritt, a retired New York merchant, who has long resided on
his farm of 150 acres in East Chester, on the banks of the Bronx River. One of these, Theron Merritt, was a man of 40 years of age.
He married a year before the war. He was a Paymaster in the Navy during the rebellion, and was attached to the Kansas. After the
close of the war he went to Chicago and invested his prize money savings, amounting to some $5,000, and some other funds which
were given to him by his father, in the hardware business in that city. He failed, and subsequently made a number of other ventures,
which all proved disastrous. Recently he had been out of business, and with his wife and family of three children have been living
with his father and mother in the family homestead, a regulation old-fashioned country house in the angle between the Scarsdale
road and the Bronx. While in Chicago seven years ago he had a violent attack of typhoid fever, which affected his general health
after recovery. Two years ago, while traveling in Virginia, he received a very severe sun-stroke. These, added to his business
difficulties are believed to have affected his mind. During the past year especially he is said to have shown signs of mental
aberration and depression, and to many persons had expressed an unwillingness to live. He had even gone so far as to say he
would shoot himself. His insanity was not of a violent character, however, and was not considered dangerous. His father-in-law said
last night that he was a model gentleman, and his wife declared that in all their married life, an angry word had not passed between
them. The Merritts and the Leggetts, being connected by marriage, and living on adjoining estates, were naturally intimate. The
surviving members of both families unite in declaring that the relations between Theron Merritt and Mrs. Leggett were of the most
friendly character, and that up to yesterday afternoon they never had a misunderstanding. They profess to be unable to account for
what happened.
Theron Merritt was at home, according to the testimony of his mother, all yesterday morning lounging about the house. When he
went away yesterday afternoon, they say they did not miss him. His father was not at home during the day. Miss Emma Leggett,
Mrs. Leggett's eldest daughter, was visiting in New York. The unmarried son was away from the house at the village. After dinner
Mrs. Leggett gave orders to her coachman to get the carriage ready as soon as he could to take herself and her two daughters
Linda and Minnie (Mary) to Mount Vernon, four miles away, to a sewing circle. He says he hitched up the horses at once and drove
up in front of the veranda at 10 minutes before 3 o'clock. A few minutes later Mrs. and the Misses Leggett emerged from the front
door dressed for the ride. The young ladies were in advance. They called upon their mother to hurry as it was going to rain. At the
same moment Theron Merritt strolled up the road, and entering by the gate walked up the southern path. Mrs. Leggett, espying him,
walked to the end of the veranda to greet him, while the young ladies proceeded to enter the carriage.
HOW THE TRAGEDY OCCURRED
When Theron and Mrs. Leggett met they conversed but a moment, when the latter ran hurriedly back in alarm, exclaiming, "He's
going to shoot me!" and rushed in the front door shutting it behind her. Merritt followed leisurely tried to open the door. The two girls
left the carriage and tried to dissuade him from entering. The coachman says that he saw them struggling gently with him. At first he
was tempted to interfere and did twist the lash of his whip around his hand with the intention of getting down from his box and
assaulting him, but on second thoughts, seeing that Merritt was not violent and that the young ladies did not call for help, he
concluded that he might be doing wrong, and sat still. Miss Linda, it appears, finding that Merritt was determined to enter - he said
he would get in if he had to stay all day - told her sister to hurry somewhere for assistance. Miss Mary ran off to the Merritt
residence. Merritt at this turned to the coachman and ordered him to put up his horses. The latter responded that he would when
Mrs. Leggett told him to do so; that he was working for her and not for him. Merritt said, "Very well, but she's not going out.' Miss
Linda, taking advantage of this diversion, succeeded in getting inside and shutting the door. The outer doors in the centre of the
verandah are of solid wood painted in imitation of black walnut. These were unlocked. Inside is a narrow vestibule about 3 feet in
width, and then there are two other doors of wood painted white with large panels of figured ground glass. This had a spring catch
on it, rendering it impossible to open it from the outside except with a key. Merritt followed Miss Linda into the vestibule, but she was
too quick for him, and had slammed the other doors too before he could reach them. Her mother stood just inside holding the knob
and apparently looking through one of the transparent figures in the glass panel of the right hand door to see what Merritt was doing.
She could do this by standing on tiptoe. Merritt closed the outer door behind him, so that the coachman could not see what was
going on, and drawing a small six barreled revolver from his pocket fired through the glass panel. The panel was completely
shattered. The ball penetrated Mrs. Leggett's left eye, burying itself in her brain. She dropped on the rich Brussels carpet of the
hallway dead, her feet being against the vestibule doors and her head on the mat in front of the door of the southern parlor. Merritt
immediately went out on the piazza, and putting up his pistol ordered the coachman to drive as fast as he could for Dr. Nordquist.
The coachman says he had a notion for a moment of getting his old rifle and shooting Merritt, but he though the doctor might be
needed and hurried off in search of him. Merritt then walked down the road toward his house. Near it he met Miss Minnie. He
stopped and said to her: "What are you so hurried for? You needn't be alarmed. Your mother is dead. I shot her." Without further
parley he entered the house and proceeding to the back kitchen, took a long drink of water. His mother, who was in the kitchen,
addressed some remark to him, but he made no answer, and went directly to the parlor. She followed him, and arrived in time to
85

hear the report and see him drop on the carpet dead. The ball had entered an inch and a half above the median line and is
supposed to have passed directly through his heart. He must have reloaded the pistol after killing Mrs. Leggett, as but one cartridge
in it was exploded when found, and he had nearly a full box of them in his pocket. It is not known where he got the pistol, but his
brother says he has seen it with him for the past three weeks.
Both families were plunged into the deepest grief by the unexpected tragedy. Messages were sent at once to the absent relatives,
and last evening both houses were full of sympathizing friends. Mrs. Leggett's body was laid out in the rear parlor of her elegantlyfurnished
residence, and Mr. Merritt's in a room also in the rear of his father's more modestly-fitted house. The evidences of the
tragedy had been carefully removed in both places and neither murderer nor victim bore any outward marks of the terrible deed
which had so summarily shortened both their lives. There was great excitement in Yonkers and all through Westchester County,
where both families are widely known. Nobody had any theory to suggest , however, other than that outlined above, and nobody
could be found who had ever heard Merritt at any time utter a threat against his victim. Everybody bore high testimony to the
character of both parties.
THE INQUEST
Coroner Schirmer, of White Plains, arrived at the scene of the tragedy at 7 o'clock, and immediately impaneled a jury, and
proceeded to hold a double inquest. The jury first visited the residence of the murdered woman and viewed the body, and then
testimony was taken as to her death. Her daughter Linda gave the principal evidence. She said: "Three of us," meaning her mother,
sister, and self, were going to the carriage when Merritt first came, and continued: "My mother helped me on the piazza, when Mr.
Merritt came and spoke to her; I ran out to learn what their conversation was, but my mother came running, and told me Mr. Merritt
was going to shoot her; she (the mother) then ordered him from the place, and told him he might as well go; he then came into the
vestibule and tried to get in the door, and I went around the house and went in the back way and bolted the door; I told him to go
away; he said he would not go until she came out, if it would take 24 hours; it was about five minutes afterward when he shot
through the glass; he shut the outside door before he shot; I saw my mother fall directly after the shot was fired."
The younger daughter, Mary E. Leggett, testified that after the shooting, by direction of her sister Linda, she hurried over to Merritt's,
to seek assistance; on route, (but whether going or on returning, was not elicited from the witness, but probably upon going,) Merritt
came near to her and called out to her, asking what was the matter - why she was in a hurry? adding: "You needn't be alarmed; your
mother is dead; I shot her."
At Merritt's residence his body was viewed by the jury, and testimony was taken concerning his death and the circumstances of his
actions prior to the tragedy. His mother was the chief witness. She said that when her son Theron returned from Mrs. Leggett's, he
came into the back room where she was, said nothing, but acted abstractedly, looking about the room in a blank way. She asked
him what was the matter. He made no answer to her question but suddenly passed into the hallway and into the front room, which is
situated near the front door, and turned into that room. She followed, heard the sharp report of a pistol, and arrived at the front room
door, which he had left open, just as he was falling to the floor.
Theron's father testified that his son had not, in his opinion, been in a clear mental condition lately - that he had talked despondently,
and several times had threatened to kill himself.
The foregoing is the essence of the entire evidence. The jury, at 10 o'clock, returned a verdict that Ann Eliza Leggett came to her
death by a pistol-shot wound at the hands of Theron Merritt and that Theron Merritt died from a pistol-shot wound inflicted by himself
while laboring under a temporary aberration of mind. The verdict is peculiar in that it charges mental aberration to Merritt at the time
of killing himself, but does not in terms say the same thing as to his condition at the time he killed Mrs. Leggett.
Theron Merritt, the author of this awful tragedy, was one of the claimants now litigating for heritage of the famous Merritt estate - the
estate left by John Merritt, of Port Chester, who was a millionaire cattle dealer.
New York Times; March 16, 1878
The Westchester Tragedy
WIDESPREAD INTEREST IN THE CASE THROUGHOUT THE COUNTY - ADDITIONAL FACTS CONCERNING THERON
MERRITT - THE TRAGEDY PREDETERMINED
The tragic death of Theron Merritt and Mrs. Samuel S Leggett excites widespread interest in Westchester County, and the mystery
of the motive for the terrible crime is much discussed. In Yonkers and East Chester, where they were both well known, slight
incidents of their past lives are woven into a web whereon to rest sombre hints concerning their long friendship and intimacy. It is
recalled that Samuel132-g6Le7 S. Leggett, who shot and killed himself on May 14, 1873, in his own barn, had absented and
secreted himself for several days before he committed suicide; that he went away by a train one morning, and late on the same day
was seen on a returning train to get off at the neighboring village of Bronxville; that he was not seen again alive; that it was
conjectured that he had been up in the hayloft of his barn during the period of the intervening days to the time of his suicide; that
from his position in the barn he could view the movements of persons about his house; that on his body were found two letters
which never were permitted to see the public light, and were kept back at the inquest by the Coroner, William E. Meeks, now a
Justice of the Peace at West Mount Vernon, because they were addressed to Leggett's wife, and that a verdict of "death by shooting
himself while laboring under temporary insanity" was rendered. All this was nearly five years ago - a period quite long enough to
obliterate the suspicions and gossip then started about Mrs. Leggett's friendship for Theron Merritt, but now it is revived with
additions. Theron Merritt was the Democratic candidate for School Commissioner in his Assembly district two years ago last fall, but
nowhere did there seem to be any warmth or zeal in the party for him. It is asserted that Theron Merritt and Mrs. Leggett were in this
city together on last Tuesday. However this may be, they were seen going home together on a train on the Harlem Railway on the
afternoon of that day, sitting side by side, engaged in earnest conversation, in which she gesticulated a good deal holding forth her
right arm toward him and vigorously cutting the air with her right forefinger to give emphasis to her remarks.
Theron Merritt, it is said held some hundreds of acres of Virginia land which he could not market, and this trouble in his business
affairs helped, it is said, to unsettle his mind. He was a Government defaulter, the defalcation occurring while he held the position of
86

Assistant Paymaster in the United States Navy. The Government brought suit against him and his sureties for the sum of $12,000,
but a compromise and settlement were made. It is an undoubted fact that Theron Merritt drank, but it is said that he was easily
affected by liquor, and seems not to have been generally regarded as an intemperate man. He and his brother, Roland Merritt, a few
evenings ago, drank till they were mellow at the saloon of Dennis Leary, in the upper part of Tuckahoe known as Sebastopol or Little
Dublin.
After the inquest on Thursday night it was found that Coroner Schirmer had overlooked one piece of evidence that casts a new light
upon the tragedy, as it shows that Theron Merritt had at least determined to kill himself. A letter was found upon the body when
steps were taken to prepare it for interment. In this letter, written by himself, he gives directions respecting his funeral, and makes a
request that his funeral sermon be preached by Rev. Dr. Eggleson, Pastor of a Congregational Church in or near Chicago.
-----
http://books.google.com/books?id=0V1IAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA1158&lpg=PA1158&dq=%22Rising+Star+Lodge+no.+450%22&source=
bl&ots=0571vnO1Z0&sig=wgejJKP9BA3EVAzuu4flKfDXUAQ&hl=en&ei=eLznTZrBJJLrgQen4_XxCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=res
ult&resnum=8&ved=0CD4Q6AEwBw#v=onepage&q=%22Rising%20Star%20Lodge%20no.%20450%22&f=false page 1157.
SCOTT, Joseph Alvah - Naval architect and marine eng'r; b. Montreal, Province of Quebec, Can., 16 Oct 1869: son of David Bryce
and Edmere Lydla (Hrnsley) Scott; ed. Brooklyn public schools, supplemented with home and professional studies; m. Brooklyn, NY,
18 Sep 1895. Carrie Marlon Trueman; children: Herbert Jefferson (b. 2 Feb 1897). Lydla Louise (b. 30 Jan 1901). Hilda Isabelle (b.
6 Apr 1905). He was associated with William Gardiner and C. D. Mosher In naval architectural and marine eng'rlng work, and has
since been engaged in following capacities: Superintending eng'r The Holland Torpedo Boat Co., laying out and superintending the
construction of submarine torpedo boat Holland, the first of its type in U. S. N.; superintending eng'r and gen. sup't Gas Engine and
Power Co., and Charles L. Seabury & Co., Morris Heights. NY City; sup't Power and Plant Dep't William Cramp & Sons Ship and
Engine Building Co., Philadelphia, PA; now engaged In professional service as a naval architect and marine eng'r. Traveled In
Europe. Investigating manufacture of internal combustion engines. Inventor of marine water tube boilers in use in torpedo boats in
U. S. N., also of self starting reversible internal combustion engine, as well as several mechanical devices. Served as a passed ass't
eng'r, lieut.. U. S. N., during Spanish-Am. War, attached to U. S. repair ship Vulcan, In charge of all repairs which were made from
that vessel on board the various vessels of the U. S. fleet in Cuban waters, the Spanish flagship Infanta Maria Teresa and the
Spanish gunboats Sandival and Alverado, serving throughout Cuban campaign on southern coast of Cuba, taking part In several
engagements and was later attached to U. S. flagship Newark. Served as ass't superintending eng'r U. S. A. transport service, and
later as marine expert for quartermaster's dep't, U. S. A., designing and superintending the construction and alterations of numerous
war dep't vessels, including U. S. A. transports. Sec, treas. and director Scott Engine and Construction Co.: consulting eng'r
Cockburn Barrow and Machine Co., and Stayman Mf'g Co. Republican. Protestant. Mem. Am. Soc. Mechanical Eng'rs, Am. Soc.
Naval Eng'rs, Soc. Naval Architects and Marine Eng'rs; companion Naval Order of U. S., and Naval and Mil. Order Spanish-Am.
War. Mem. Rising Star Lodge No. 450, F. and A. M., Yonkers, N. Y., Royal Arch Mason, Knight Templar and Shriner. Recreations:
Photography, outdoor sports. Club: Am. Model Yacht (honorary mem.). Address: 95 Liberty St., N. Y. City.
-----
Ibid. page 65.
BAKER, Thomas O. - Public school principal; b. New Paris, OH., b. 31 Dec 1859; son of Thomas and Margaret Baker; grad. Nat.
Normal Univ.. Ohio, A.B., 1886 (Ph.D., 1896); Pd.D., N. Y. Univ., 1896; m. Knoxville, TN, 1887, Carlotta Washburn. Sup't of schools,
Durango, CO, 1888-94; prin. Yonkers High School, 1895-1901; prin. Public Sch. No. 128. Brooklyn, NY, from 1901. Ex-pres.
Westchester County Teachers' Ass'n Society Doctors of Pedagogy, NY. Mem. Rising Star Lodge No. 450, F&AM, Yonkers, NY;
Orient Chapter. No. 138, R. A. M.; Damascus Commandery No. 58. KT; Mecca Temple. A. A. O. N. M. S.; past commander Yonkers
Commandery No. 147, KT. Mem. Ohio Soc. of N. Y. Recreations: Rowing, bowling. Clubs: University (Brooklyn), Nautilus Boat.
Address: 1941 83d St., Brooklyn, N. Y.
Marble-Stewart-Winyah Lodge No. 702, Tuckahoe, New York
Warrant:
Kisco Lodge No. 708, Mt. Kisco, New York
Warrant: 9 Jun 1871
First Master: Lewis F. Pelton
Ref.: History of Kisco Lodge, no. 708, Free and Accepted Masons: Commemorating the one thousandth communication, on June
16, A.L. 5916 [1916], by James Frances Chapman.
Lodge “Website” - http://www.secondwestchesterputnam.com/december_2010_communication.html
Stanley Lander 1967
Elliott Cates 1968
Donald P. Taylor 1970
Thomas G. Barclay 1974
Kenneth J. Muir 1975
Campbell Muir 1978
LIVING PAST MASTERS – as of 2010
John W. Ticknor 1979
F. Travis Hopkins III 1980
John McWaters, D.S.A. 1984
John Delventhal 1986
Alan Holland 1987
Alan Holland 1988
Peter H. Ward 1990
Peter H. Ward 1991
John Delventhal 1994-96
John Delventhal 2001-04
Peter D. Spink 2004-05
Carl E. Tomanelli 2005-07
Joseph Dudas 2007-08
William J. Serratore 2008-10
Richard Hawthorne 2010-11
87

AFFILIATED PAST MASTERS
W.’.Holger S. Svensson
W.’. Carl Tomanelli
Past Master of Other Lodges
W.’.Jack Thomson , Jr. 1995-96; Jamaica Lodge No. 546
D.S.A. RECIPIENTS
W.’. JOHN MCWATERS 1990
FREDERICK J. KRATZER 1991
RICHARD H. DAKIN 1994
------
Louis F. Pelton, M. D., died at his residence in Mount Kisco, NY, 17 Sep 1883. He had been a practicing physician for twenty-five
years. He was a member of the Westchester County Medical Society. He was also one of the charter members and the first Master
of Kisco Lodge. No. 708, F&AM, of Mount Kisco. At the breaking out of the rebellion Dr. Pelton was appointed an examining
surgeon under Capt. Pierson, the Provost Marshal. He held several political oflices, among them those of Supervisor of the town of
Bedford, and Coroner of the county. He leaves a widow and two sons.
http://books.google.com/books?id=EkgVAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA598&dq=%22Kisco+Lodge+No.+708%22&hl=en&ei=yF_uTeu_KcnL0Q
HDldXeAw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=8&ved=0CEkQ6AEwBw#v=onepage&q=%22Kisco%20Lodge%20No.%2070
8%22&f=false page 598.
Walton Jay Carpenter, M.D., is descended from an English family who came to New England
during the seventeenth century. From thence a branch removed to the town of Purchase, in
Westchester County, where they took up land and engaged in farming. Charles B. Carpenter,
father of Walton Jay, was of this line. He married Rachel White, and of their five children, Dr.
Carpenter was the oldest. He was born in Duanesburgh, Schenectady, NY, 11 Sep 1852, and
removed with his family when but four years of age to Illinois. After a stay of two years in the
West the family returned to Duanesburgh where the youth attended the public school, leaving at
the age of fifteen for the Delaware Literary Institute, where he passed two winters. A period of
three years, divided between teaching and study followed; then a two years' course of select
studies at Union College and a term of medical preparation under the celebrated professor, Dr.
Alfred Loomis, of New York. In the fall of 1875 he entered the medical department'of the
University of the City of New York, and finally finished his course in the spring of 1877, when he
graduated.
He first settled at Round Hill, Connecticut, where lie practiced for a few months, in connection with his uncle, J. C. White, M.D.; but
this town not offering the advantages which he craved, he returned to New York City and entered upon a post-graduate course at
the University, after completing which in 1878 he removed to Katonah . . .
He has by care and industry succeeded in building up for himself an extensive practice, and has during his residence in Katonah
effected many cures which will render his reputation permanent and his presence in the place a continual agency for good. He is a
member of the Methodist Church of Katonah, and also a member of the following Masonic organizations: Kisco Lodge No. 708;
Croton Chapter No. 202; and Crusade Commandery No. 56.
He married April 30, 1884, Miss Anna L. Green, daughter of Alsoph Green, of Katonah. Dr. Carpenter is connected with the
Westchester Medical Society, among the members of which he is widely known and as widely respected
http://books.google.com/books?pg=PA24&dq=%22Kisco%20Lodge%20No.%20708%22&ei=yF_uTeu_KcnL0QHDldXeAw&ct=resul
t&id=QlxKAAAAYAAJ&output=text page 24.
Franics Marshall Carpenter [photo at right] - Banker, Regent of the University of the State of New York,
former State Senator, Twenty-second District, was born in the town of Yorktown, Westchester County,
NY, 10 Jul 1834, son of Zopher and Phoebe (Marshall) Carpenter. For several years he conducted a
general store at Mt. Kisco, and from 1874 to 1894 was in the coal business in New York City. He was one
of the organizers of the Republican party in Westchester County. In 1862 he was elected supervisor of
the town of New Castle and held that office for thirty-two years, for several terms being chairman of the
board. He was elected County Treasurer in 1896 and was re-elected in 1899. In 1903 he was elected to
the State Senate, succeeding Charles D. McClelland, resigned, and was re-elected in 1904 and 1906. On
10 Feb 1909, he was elected a Regent of the University of the State of New York for a term of twelve
years. He is president of the Westchester and Bronx Title Guaranty Company: vice-president Westchester
Trust Company and Mt. Kisco National Bank; director First National Bank of White Plains; member Mt.
Kisco Lodge No. 708, F&AM, and of the Republican Club of New York City. On 28 Nov 1859, he married
Mary B. Miller, who died in Jan 1884. Their children are: Zopher, cashier in the Westchester County
Treasurer's office; Carrie, wife of Charles Matthews, of Mt. Kisco. In Mar 1885, he married for his second wife Catherine A. Moger.
88

Nepperhan Lodge No. 736, Yonkers, New York - 1873-1978
First Meeting U.D.: 20 Feb 1873
Warrant: Jun 1873
Merged with Thistle Lodge No. 900 in 1978.
1873 Eli L. Sager
1874 Eli L. Sager
1875 W. A. Gibson
1876 R.E. Prime
1877 R.E. Prime
1878 R.E. Prime
1879 R.E. Prime
1880 R.E. Prime
1881 R.E. Prime
1882 W.W. Wilson
1883 W.W. Wilson
1884 Charles Reed
1885 Moses D. Getty
1886 Moses D. Getty
1887 R.E. Prime
1888 R.E. Prime
1889 R.E. Prime
1890 R.E. Prime
1891 R.E. Prime
1892 Moses D. Getty
1893 R.E. Prime
1894 George B. Wray
1895 R.L. Calkins
1896 Charles Hepenstal
1897 E.W. Taylor
1898 Philip Fitz
1899 J.A. Hauser
1900 E.F. Howard
1901 E.F. Howard
1902 F.A. Baldwin
1903 William C. Prime
1904 William C. Prime
1905 William C. Prime
1906 C.I. McCoy
1907 F.B. Mee
1908 P.W. Soeteman
1909 Robert W. Anderson
1910 F.M. Johnson, Jr.
1911 B. FitzGibbon
1912 Robert W. Anderson
1913 George Mee
1914 John Cullen
1915 Leslie Sutherland
1916 Walter Blackburn
1917 Walter Blackburn
1918 Palmer H. Stilson
1919 Edward J. MacSorley
1920 Edward J. MacSorley
1921 George F. Nugent
1922 John R. Bray
1923 Alfred Watson
1924 Albert Senftner
1925 Kristen Kristersen
1926 William W. Schwartz
1881 Ralph Earl Prime District Deputy Grand Master
1885 Lyraan S. Cobb Grand Steward
1890 Ralph Earl Prime Grand Representative
1895 Moses D. Getty District Deputy Grand Master
1905 William C. Prime District Deputy Grand Master
1913 E. F. Howard Grand Director of Ceremonies
1921 Walter G. Blackburn Grand Sword Bearer
1923 Walter G. Blackburn District Deputy Grand Master
1928 Kristen Kristensen District Deputy Grand Master
http://www.diamond-thistle.org/images/Nepperhan_Lodge.pdf
PAST MASTERS
GRAND LODGE OFFICERS
1927 William F. Grimm
1928 John Magil
1929 William F. Poole
1930 Harold A. Rose
1931 James F. Campbell
1932 Raymond Case
1933 James D. Thomson
1934 Leon E. Botting
1935 John Hensey
1936 Henry Storms
1937 George F.W. Grimm
1938 James H. Case
1939 Sidney White
1940 Paul L. Bleakley
1941 Walter M. Hausel
1942 Edward J. MacSorley
1943 Leon E. Botting
1944 Alfred Watson
1945 Nicholas Milton
1946 William M. Kent, Jr.
1947 Charles McConnell
1948 Frank Morrisey
1949 Albert Schweitzer
1950 Robert L. Sutherland
1951 Francis Noffko
1952 Michael Cholowsky
1953 Raymond Bell
1954 William G. Zirkler
1955 F. Donald Maxwell
1956 Raymond Dykes
1957 James G.H. Carroll
1958 W. Warren McKenzie
1959 Harold Sorenson
1960 Sidney G. Pound
1961 Alexander McKendrick
1962 Anton Andree
1963 Clyde Hartley
1964 Richard Stowbridge
1965 George Ampagoomian
1966 Alexander Meller-Lumb
1967 W. Burton Bourne
1968 Edwin Zuraw
1969 Andrew Robertson
1970 Simeon Malutich
1971 George Riggin
1972 George Ampagoomian
1973 George Ampagoomian
1974 Robert Tauber
1975 Koona Shomon
1976 Leslie A.J. Read
1977 Robert Tauber
1978 F. Donald Maxwell
1928 Edward J. MacSorley Grand Representative
1936 Robert W. Anderson Grand Steward
1947 William Poole Grand Representative
1947 William F. Grimm Grand Representative
1951 Walter M. Hausel Grand Steward
1957 William G. Zirkler District Deputy Grand Master
1961 F. Donald Maxwell Grand Representative
1968 Leon E. Botting Grand Sword Bearer
1976 Anton Andree Grand Director of Ceremonies
1873 — THE FIRST YEAR
The first meeting of Nepperhan Lodge (U.D.) was held on February 20, 1873 in the Lodge Rooms of Rising Star Lodge #450,
located on the second floor of the Yonkers Savings Bank Building on South Broadway, Yonkers, near Getty Square. This building
still exists and, at the time of this writing, is still occupied by the same Yonkers Savings Bank. Six members were present at that first
meeting, including Wor. Bro. Eli L. Seger, a Past Master of Rising Star Lodge (1869) who was appointed by the Grand Master to
serve as Master of Nepperhan Lodge while the Lodge was under dispensation. The other five original members were William
Gibson, Lyman Cobb, W. H. Doty, G. W. White, and R. E. Prime. There were also two visiting Brothers from Rising Star Lodge.
At that first meeting, the Worshipful Master presented and read the Dispensation granted by Grand Lodge over the signature of the
Deputy Grand Master, Rt. Wor. Elwood Thorne. The Dispensation noted that Rising Star Lodge #450, the only Masonic Lodge in
Yonkers at that time, had agreed to, and recommended that permission be granted for the formation of a new lodge to be known as
NEPPERHAN LODGE. Following the reading of the Dispensation, the By-Laws Committee presented a proposed set of By-Laws,
which were read, discussed and adopted, pending approval of Grand Lodge. Lyman Cobb was elected Treasurer, and R. E. Prime
was elected Secretary. Five of the Brothers present donated $15 each towards purchase of Lodge supplies. (It must be
remembered that $15 probably the equivalent of $100 today). The first meeting was then adjourned "in peace and harmony".
The second meeting was held five days later on February 25, 1873, in the same lodge rooms. Five members were present plus
seven visiting Brothers from other Lodges, including representatives of Rising Star Lodge, Solomon's Lodge, and Beacon Lodge.
Three applications for initiation and advancement were received and referred to investigating committees. The Secretary was
89

authorized to have 100 copies of the By-Laws printed for the sum of $15. The new By-Laws, approved by Grand Lodge, were
spread upon the minutes of that Second Communication. Of particular note in those original By-Laws were the following:
1. The regular communications of the Lodge were to be held on the-second and fourth Tuesdays of each month.
The candidate's initiation fee to be $60.
The annual dues were to be $6.00.
The By-Laws were signed by all members, and by the District Deputy, whose name was O. Baker.
At that time, Nepperhan Lodge was in what was known as the Sixth District (Masonic) of New York State. Brother White was given a
voucher in the amount of $80, representing the cost of obtaining the Dispensation. The meeting closed (as usual) in peace and
harmony.
At the third meeting, seven members and twelve visiting Brothers were present. Two more applications for initiation were received,
as well as four requests for affiliation from members of other Lodges.
The first degree work performed by Nepperhan Lodge occurred at the fourth meeting on March 18, 1873, when A. J. Prime received
his First Degree.
The Grand Lecturer visited Nepperhan Lodge at the eighth Communication, and observed the conferral of the Second Degree, for
which services he received $35. I would assume that the Grand Lecturer at that time was unsalaried, and this was probably the
reason for charging fees to the Lodges. The Lodge also issued a voucher for $5 to the District Deputy, probably for taking the Grand
Lecturer to dinner.
At the ninth Communication, May 13th, the Secretary issued a quarterly report which indicated receipts to date of $370 and
disbursements of $223.25. He noted, however, that "no dues have been received as yet from any member of the Lodge".
At the annual meeting of Grand Lodge in June 1873, Nepperhan Lodge was officially removed from the "Dispensation" category,
and the number 736 was officially assigned to the Lodge.
At its tenth Communication, on July 8, 1873, Nepperhan Lodge No. 736 was officially constituted. It was a gala occasion, with
thirteen members of Nepperhan present, together with nineteen members of Rising Star Lodge, and sixteen other visiting Brothers,
Eighteen representatives of Grand Lodge were present and assumed all of the officers' chairs during the Constitution ceremonies.
Officers for Nepperhan Lodge were officially installed as follows:
ELI L. SEGER Master
WILLIAM A. GIBSON SW
MATTHEW H. ELLIS JW
WOR. LYMAN COBB, JR. Treas
RALPH E. PRIMe Secy
GEORGE WHITE SD
ALEX HOUSTON JD
WILLIAM H. DOTY SMC
A. J. PRIME JMC
ALEX MOORHOUSE Tiler (Rising Star Lodge)
About that time, an agreement was signed with Rising Star Lodge whereby Nepperhan would pay them $200 per year for the use of
the Lodge Room plus 2/7 of the gas bill. (No electricity, of course, at that time).
At a meeting a few months later, it was noted that a bill had been received from Rising Star Lodge for $6.06, supposedly
representing 2/7 of the gas bill for that quarter. This seemed high and, after a protest, the Lodge was notified that the correct amount
should be only $2.02, and this amount was ordered paid by the Finance Committee.
At the eighteenth Communication, in November 1873, a letter was received from Grand Lodge with relation to the Spanish atrocities
upon Masons and their families in the Island of Cuba. It is interesting to note that the Spanish-American War did not break out until
1895, thereby indicating that there were more than twenty years of strife and disagreement before the actual war started with the
sinking of the battleship Maine.
The first Third Degree performed by Nepperhan Lodge was at the eighteenth Communication at which time two Fellowcrafts were
raised to the Sublime Degree. Prior to that, of course, there had been several first or second degree plus many affiliations from other
Lodges.
At the first annual meeting in December 1873, it was noted that the membership had risen from six to eighteen. No deaths or dimits
were registered during that first ten months. It was also noted that $5 was paid out for the design and preparation of the Lodge seal,
the same seal which graced the front of our Lodge notices for so many years up to the present. After the reading of the annual
reports, the election of officers for the ensuing year was held. Brother W. H. Doty acted as presiding officer during the election, and
one of the tellers was Moses D. Getty, who later was Mayor of Yonkers, as well as Master of the Lodge and a Grand Lodge officer.
The same slate of officers was elected to serve another term. The installation was held at a special Communication on December
15, 1873. At that time, the By-Laws were amended, changing the meeting dates from the second and fourth Tuesdays of each
month to the first and third Tuesdays.
1874 — THE SECOND YEAR
Degree work occupied most of the Communications in 1874. Of interest was the absence of Wor. Master E, L. Seger at the 34th
Communication on September 1st, the first meeting he had missed since the Lodge organization in February, 1873. As commented
by Bro. Ralph E. Prime, Secretary, Wor. Bro. Seger "must have been sorely sick to miss a meeting". The above-mentioned Ralph E.
Prime, incidentally, later served as Master of the Lodge for a total of 12 terms (not all consecutive), by far the greatest number of
terms in the history of Nepperhan Lodge. At the annual meeting in December, 1874, the Secretary's report indicated that
membership had gone from 18 to 21, plus three Entered Apprentices. The reports were followed by election of officers, at which
time W. A. Gibson, who was later to become Mayor of Yonkers, was elected as Master for 1875. The first Master, Wor. Eli Seger
probably would have been re-elected but he had announced that he was moving away from the City of Yonkers and would be
unable to continue in office. His plans must have changed at a later date, however, because his name crops up frequently in later
years as substituting in one of the Chairs, or as a member of a committee. The elected and appointed officers were installed the
same night.
1875 — THE THIRD YEAR
At the first meeting in 1875, the Lodge became formally incorporated under the laws of New York State. That meeting supposedly
marked the last attendance of Wor. Bro. Seger (see note in last paragraph), and a lengthy resolution was read and adopted, part of
which was worded as follows:
90

"RESOLVED, THAT WHEN OUR BRETHREN IN THE FAR-OFF FUTURE, WHO WILL NOT HAVE KNOWN OUR BROTHER,
SHALL SEE HIS NAME IN THE AUTHORITY UNDER WHICH THEY WORK, THIS RECORD OF OUR ESTEEM AND RESPECT
WILL ASSURE THEM THAT HE WAS WORTHY TO HAVE HIS NAME PERPETUATED IN THE MEMORY OF THE LODGE".
At the annual meeting in Dec 1875, the Secretary's report indicated that membership now included 29 Brothers. Finances of the
Lodge improved slightly, the on-hand balance going from $23.18 at the beginning of the year to $83.75 at year-end. The Trustees
report indicated that they had negotiated a new lease with Rising Star Lodge, reducing the rent from $200 per year to $100.
After reading of the reports, the election was held. The ballot indicated that Wor. W. A. Gibson, the Master, was re-elected. He,
however, declined to accept another term, so a new vote was ordered, and Ralph E. Prime was elected for the first of his 12 terms
as Master. W. W. Wilson was elected Senior Warden, and served as such through the following six years. Brother Moses D. Getty,
whose name is prominent in the minutes for many years thereafter, was elected Junior Warden. Apparently the job of Secretary was
not very popular, because the present Secretary, A. J. Prime was re-elected but declined to accept. Then, in successive ballots, C.
W. Torrey was elected and declined, a Brother Holden was elected and declined, and two further ballots were declared null and void
because no Brother received a majority of the votes cast. Finally, on the sixth ballot, Charles Torrey was again elected, and this time
he accepted. Following the election, all elected and appointed officers were installed. It might be added here, with a smile, that
Brother Torrey's election was an unfortunate occurrence for the Editor of this History, because Bro. Torrey had atrocious
handwriting, and the minutes, during his stay in office, were barely decipherable.
1876 — THE FOURTH YEAR
Masonic charity was frequently in evidence during those years. Requests for assistance to Brothers in need were received by the
Lodge from other lodges far away, including Canada, Michigan, Cuba, etc. A rather amusing example of this charity was noted in
the minutes of April18, 1876, at which time the Master, Wor. R. E. Prime reported that he had been approached by a Brother from
Beacon Lodge, seeking assistance. The Master gave him $2.00 and, when reported at the meeting, was reimbursed. Even more
interesting was an occasion that same year when the Secretary received a communication from Oasis Lodge, Prattsville, NY,
requesting financial help for one of its Brothers. The hat was passed in Lodge and $2.00 was raised and sent to Oasis Lodge for its
needy Brother. Up until this time, the Lodge had held meetings all summer each year, but in 1876 it was moved and carried that no
Communications be held during July and August. At the annual meeting in 1876, it was reported that cash on hand had risen from
$83.71 to $133.91 at the end of the year. The Secretary reported a membership of 29, which is rather confusing, since it also had
been 29 at the end of the previous year and there had been numerous degrees during the year. Up to this time, no deaths had
occurred, so it must be assumed that some Brothers dimitted, although the minutes have no such notation. As an interesting
sidelight, the refreshments for the evening cost $6.00 which, considering the value of a dollar in those days, must have been quite a
spread. As a matter of fact, there was no allowance at all for it in the budget. Refreshments were not usually served. The Tiler of the
Lodge up until this time was Bro.Alex. Moorehouse of Rising Star Lodge. Brother Moorehouse died shortly after the annual meeting
in December, and an emergent Communication (the 82nd Communication) was called from which the Lodge, as a group, walked
across the street to St. Johns Church, attended the Church Services, and then withdrew to the Chapel adjoining the Church, where
the Masonic Funeral Service was conducted in the presence of family and friends. The membership then returned across the street
to the Lodge Rooms and closed in due and ancient form. This was the first funeral conducted by Nepperhan Lodge.
1877 — THE FIFTH YEAR
An interesting point was revealed at this point in my study of the minutes, apparently never before discovered. The second meeting
in January, 1877, was not, for some reason, assigned a Communication number. The first meeting of January, 1877, was the 83rd
Communication, the second meeting had no number, and the first meeting in February was made the 84th Communication.
Consequently, in these modern times, the number assigned to our present Communication is one short of what it should be.
The year of 1877 was not a year of much activity within the Lodge. There was no degree work at all during the year, and most
meetings apparently consisted of ritual study and, at every meeting a reading from a section of the Grand Lodge Constitution by the
Worshipful Master. In fact, it might be timely at this point to state that there was never a meeting, during Wor. Bro. Prime's tenure as
Master, at which he did not read a section from the Constitution, a section of our By-Laws, and a passage from the Bible. Certainly
the Nepperhan Brothers of that day and age must have been well acquainted with Masonic Law. The annual meeting in December,
1877 revealed that cash on hand had dwindled to $107.89. Membership remained at 29 but, sad to relate, 28 of these Brothers were
in arrears in their dues. The report of the Trustees, however, indicated that all lodges were in similar trouble — these were
apparently hard times throughout the country and the world.
1878 — THE SIXTH YEAR
The 100th Communication of Nepperhan Lodge was held on February 5, 1878, more than 100 years ago from this writing. At that
meeting, the By-Laws were amended to change the initiation fee from $60 to $50, in the hope that this might draw new candidates.
It had some results, in that one application for membership was received at the next meeting, and an additional one at the following
meeting. One of these was Albert C. Benedict, who later became a prominent doctor in Yonkers. Even at that time, he must have
been well known, because at his Third Degree in May, 1878, more than fifty members and visiting brethren overflowed the Lodge
Room, the largest attendance to that date in Nepperhan's history. The bill for refreshments came to $6.79.
During these financially hard times, so many requests for relief were being received by all Masonic Lodges, that Nepperhan Lodge
formed a joint relief committee with Rising Star Lodge, said committee consisting of the Master and the Wardens of each Lodge. In
those days, it was customary for Lodges from great distances to make widespread requests for relief for its members.
The Lodge minutes, at various times, show relief requests from Chicago, from Canada, from the West Indies, etc. Many requests
were filled, even though our members may never have heard of the Lodge making the request, and never heard of it again.
During those years, reference is made many times to a so-called "Black Book". Apparently, whenever a Lodge, for whatever the
reason, expelled a member, his name was sent to all of the Lodges in the State and entered in what was known as the "Black
Book". Undoubtedly, this was where the expression "black-listed" came from. Also, in 1878, there was apparently a Yellow Fever
epidemic. A letter from the Grand Master requested the Lodges to hasten to the relief of any Masons or their families so afflicted. By
motion, Nepperhan Lodge instructed the Secretary to send $50 to the Grand Master for this cause, the money to be replaced in the
Lodge coffers by individual donations.
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During the year, financial problems were still evident, and the rent of Nepperhan Lodge was reduced from $100 to $90 per annum.
Membership of the Lodge at the time of the annual meeting was 29. Twenty-one Brothers were in arrears in dues for a total of $188.
Bank balance at the end of 1878 was $131.93. As a point of interest, the Master's annual report mentioned that Rising Star Lodge
currently had a membership of 153.
1879 — THE SEVENTH YEAR
At the first meeting of 1879, the Trustees of the Lodge were instructed to request from Rising Star Lodge a return of two months rent
because of the extremely poor conditions of the Lodge Rooms.
Also, the By-Laws were amended to further reduce the initiation fee to $30. Some degree work was accomplished in 1879, and at
the annual meeting at the end of the year, an increase of two members was noted. Dues were still a problem, with 24 Brothers in
arrears. Dues of the Secretary were remitted to him in lieu of a salary.
1880 — THE EIGHTH YEAR
The first instance of a blackball in Nepperhan Lodge occurred in February, 1880, when a proposed candidate was rejected. On April
6, 1880, the Grand Lecturer visited Nepperhan Lodge (there were no A. G. L.'s at the time), and exemplified the Third Degree with
the assistance of officers from all Lodges in the District. By the end of 1880, membership had risen to 34, of whom 19 were in
arrears. Bank balance at the end of the year had risen to $272.06.
1881 — THE NINTH YEAR
The minutes of the meeting of September 20, 1881, recorded the assassination of U. S. President James Garfield, a brother Mason.
The work of the evening was suspended (a Third Degree), and a resolution was drawn up and adopted, expressing the grief of the
Lodge at his tragic death.
At the annual meeting in December, 1881, Wor. Ralph E. Prime declined to serve another year as Master (after seven years), and
W. W. Wilson was elected Master for his first term. At this point, it is interesting to note that at some time during the year 1881, Wor.
Ralph E. Prime became Rt. Wor. Ralph E. Prime. At no time in the minutes of that year is any mention made as to the change in his
title, or of any receptions in his honor. At one point in the following year, however, the minutes reveal that he had been appointed
District Deputy of our District
1882 — THE TENTH YEAR
In January, 1882, a new organ was installed in the Lodge Room, Nepperhan's share of which was $25. The Lodge was
experiencing severe attendance problems. The Trustees report noted that average attendance per meeting was 13 in 1880, and
only nine in 1881. In fact these figures included visiting brethren also. Dues in arrears at the end of 1881 amounted to $326, and the
Trustees issued a plea to members to pay up arrears. Apparently, in those years, no action was taken against delinquent Brothers.
In April, 1882, an organist was hired for the first time, with a salary of $2.50 per meeting plus remittance of his Lodge dues. It was at
the same meeting that Rt. Wor. Ralph E. Prime was feted for his long service as Master, and the resolution covering this also noted
his appointment as District Deputy Grand Master. Presumably this explains why he was unable to serve another term as Master.
The 179th Communication of Nepperhan Lodge (jointly with Rising Star Lodge) was indeed a gala one. The Grand Master, together
with his entire Grand line of officers, arrived for his official visit to the District, In addition to the host Lodges, delegations were
present from Diamond Lodge, Courtlandt Lodge, Solomon's Lodge, Phillipstown Lodge, as well as representatives from Lodges in
Rhinebeck, Brewster, Mt. Kisco, White Plains, Tuckahoe, New York City, New Jersey, and Connecticut. This seems rather amazing
when we remember there were no automobiles at the time. Total attendance was 128 (every name listed in the minutes), which
must have really jammed that small Lodge Room. Expenses of the evening (Nepperhan's share only) came to $40.65.
The first death of a member of Nepperhan Lodge occurred in September, 1882, with the demise of our Junior Deacon, Bro. George
Carlough. The Lodge opened in emergent session in the Lodge Rooms, then assembled on the North side of the Lodge in funeral
procession and proceeded to St. Johns Cemetery for the graveside ceremony, following the hearse through the streets. The Lodge
Room was draped in mourning for 60 days thereafter, and the page of the minute book immediately following those minutes was left
blank. He was 30 years of age. At the annual meeting on December 5, 1882, Wor. W. W. Wilson was elected for his second and last
term as Worshipful Master.
1883 — THE ELEVENTH YEAR
At the first meeting in 1883, the newly elected and appointed officers were installed. At that same meeting, a bill was presented in
the amount of $100 to cover the funeral expenses of Brother Carlough. No further comment was made, so we can only assume that
the Lodge was covering the entire expense of the funeral. Attendance at the Lodge was still a problem — the minutes of the
Communication of March 20, 1883, indicate that Rt. Wor. R. E. Prime acted as Senior Deacon, Secretary, and Chaplain for the
evening. As an example of the sentimental and flowery approach typical of those times, we quote from the resolution adopted by the
Lodge upon the death of the wife of the Junior Warden, and spread upon the minutes as follows:
"RESOLVED, THAT THE HEARTFELT SYMPATHY OF THIS LODGE BE TENDERED TO BROTHER GEORGE WHITE IN HIS
LATE AFFLICTION. OUR HEARTS GO OUT TO HIM. THE HEAVY HAND OF THE LIVING FATHER IS LAID UPON HIM, BUT WE
BELIEVE THAT LOVE IS BEHIND THE CLOUD, AND THAT TIME, WHICH CLEARS ALL CLOUDS, WILL YET LEAD OUR
BROTHER OUT OF THE DARKNESS OF THIS HOUR INTO THE BRIGHT LIGHT".
By the middle of 1883, the Lodge was apparently in real trouble financially. A committee, consisting of the Master and two past
Masters, worked up a comparison of estimated receipts and expenses which indicated there was no way the Lodge could continue
on a sound financial basis without a drastic cutback in moneys paid out. It was noted there were 35 members whose dues of $6
each would bring an annual income of $210. It was also noted that, from past experience, it could be assumed that at least ten
brothers would be delinquent in dues, thereby bringing annual income down to $150. Against this were estimated expenses of $259.
The committee recommended that every attempt be made to cut expenses, and specifically recommended that: The services of the
organist be eliminated ($47.50). The salary of the Secretary be suspended ($25).
All Brothers in arrears for dues of more than one year be notified that the Lodge needs such money and that said Brothers should
pay all or some part of their arrears by the next meeting, or should provide a satisfactory excuse for not doing so, under penalty of
possible unaffiliation from the Lodge.
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The organist, a member of the Lodge, immediately tendered his resignation from that job. Seven Brothers, who were most in
arrears, were summoned to appear at the next meeting. Of these seven, two paid up in full, two offered satisfactory excuses or
promises, one could not be located, and two were dropped from the rolls. At the annual meeting in December, 1883, Brother
Charles Reed was elected as the fifth Brother to become Master.
1884/1885 — THE TWELFTH AND THIRTEENTH YEARS
For no explained reason, there were no meetings in January, 1884, and the installation of officers took place at the first meeting in
February. Wor. Bro. Reed only served one term as Master. Attendance during the year only averaged seven members per meeting,
and membership was listed as 36. In December, 1884, Brother Moses D. Getty was elected and installed as Worshipful Master, and
served for two years.
1886 - 1889 — THE FOURTEENTH THROUGH SEVENTEENTH YEARS
The year 1886 was another year with little activity. There was no degree work, no meetings other than routine, and an average
attendance of only six or seven Brothers. At the annual elections in December, 1886, Rt. Wor. R. E. Prime was returned to the
Master's chair, a position he was to hold for the next five years. The Treasurer's report at that time indicated an on-hand balance of
$0.63, indicating how deep the Lodge was in trouble. It was also necessary to assess members $6.00 each to pay indebtedness to
Grand Lodge. Nine members were summoned to appear and pay their dues arrears, or to give reasonable explanation why they
were unable to do so, under penalty of unaffiliation. Two of these Brothers actually were unaffiliated. In the latter part of 1887, one of
our Brothers was brought up on charges by the Lodge for (1) desertion of his wife, (2) unlawful appropriation of funds, and (3)
conduct unbecoming a man and Mason. He was expelled from all the rights and privileges of Freemasonry, and his name dropped
from the rolls.
At about the same time, the By-Laws were amended to set the first meetings of March, June, September, and December as
"quarterly" Communications which were to be held at five o'clock in the afternoon. No reason for this was given, but it was noted that
"suitable refreshment" would be provided at those meetings. It was also at this time that the office of Steward was created. The
afternoon meetings were to be on the first Wednesday of the stated months.
At the annual meeting in December, 1888, it was reported that Rising Star Lodge was refusing to continue to lease their Lodge
Room in the Bank building to Nepperhan Lodge. Space was reported to be available (probably through our own Moses Getty) in the
Getty House, free of expense. The Lodge initiation fee was reduced to $20. (It was now several years since any applications were
received).
In 1889, with consent of the Grand Lodge, only three Communications were held, namely, March 4th, June 13th and September
12th, all in Room 7 of the Getty House. This was probably the lowest point in the Lodge's history.
1890 — THE EIGHTEENTH YEAR
In March, 1890, differences with Rising Star Lodge were adjusted, and it was agreed that Nepperhan Lodge would return to the
Lodge Rooms in the Bank building with a guarantee of a minimum of six meetings a year. Rent would be $5 per meeting, said fee to
include the services of a Tiler. Monthly meetings were resumed on the second Thursday of each month. Eight applications for
membership were received, the first in many years. The Lodge was so pleased at receiving candidates that degree work was carried
on through the months of July and August. In the latter part of 1890, the By-Laws were again amended, this time to set Lodge
meetings as the second and fourth Thursdays of each month, starting at 8 p.m.
1891 — THE NINETEENTH YEAR
At a meeting in February, 1891, the Master (R. E. Prime) announced receipt of a letter from the Grand Master inviting the Lodge to
attend the laying of the cornerstone of the Masonic Home (then known as the Asylum) in Utica. During these years, application for
initiation or affiliation continued to pour in, and virtually every meeting included degree work. The 300th Communication was held on
February 12, 1891, in the Bank Lodge Rooms. An unusual situation occurred on March 12, 1891, when a special Communication
(#302) was held at 6 p.m. to confer a degree. The Lodge was then closed, and opened again at 7:30 p.m. for Stated Communication
#303. I am not aware as to why it was felt necessary to make two separate meetings out of it. At any rate, attendance was no longer
a problem — as an example, 83 members and visiting brethren attended a Third Degree in March, 1891. It should also be noted that
all candidates were examined in open lodge for their proficiency, before being accepted for the degree itself.
In April, 1891, the name of Leslie Sutherland was proposed for membership. This is the same Brother who later served as Master
and still later became Mayor of Yonkers. His son, Robert L. Sutherland, was later also Master of Nepperhan Lodge. It is also
interesting to note that during those years a ballot was taken before each degree on all candidates. At a special Communication in
October, 1891, one candidate was given the First Degree, then two others were given the Second Degree. It must have been a long
evening. As an indication of what a good year it was financially, the Treasurer's report at the annual meeting in December, 1891,
indicated the cash on hand had risen from $178 at the beginning of the year to $922 at the end of the year, During that same year,
membership went from 36 to 61, a remarkable increase which indicated five classes of five each were raised during that year. At
that annual meeting, Wor. Moses Getty, who had served as Master in 1885 and 1886, was elected Master for 1892.
1892 — THE TWENTIETH YEAR
In 1892, the Secretary, who had received no salary during the lean years, was granted a salary of $50 per year. In fact, there seems
to have been a feeling among the Brothers that candidates were being pushed through without sufficient consideration. Of the first
five candidates balloted upon in 1892, four were blackballed. Minutes in late 1892 indicate that the Masonic Home in Utica was
completed and dedicated on October 5, 1892. Rising Star, Nepperhan and Hope Lodge No. 244 of New York City held a joint
meeting in October, and then adjourned to attend in a body the funeral of Brother James Millward, a member of Hope Lodge, and
the Mayor of Yonkers. At a meeting in November, Rt. Wor. Ralph E. Prime gave a detailed account of his trip to Scotland, from
where he had just returned. While there, he visited Kilwinny Lodge No. 2 of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, and was invited to inspect
their minute books. He was shown the minutes of a meeting on February 1, 1787, at which the famous poet, Robert Burns, became
an honorary member of that Lodge. Quoting from those particular minutes, Burns was described as being "well known as a grand
poet, writer, and for a late publication of his works which have been universally recommended".
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1893 — THE TWENTY-FIRST YEAR
Economic conditions in the country must have improved during 1892 because, out of 69 members, only 31 were delinquent in dues,
and only four of these were more than one year in arrears.
The annual election results placed Rt. Wor. Ralph E. Prime as Master (once again) this term representing his twelfth and last time
as Master. To keep this history in perspective, it should be noted that the 350th Communication of Nepperhan Lodge was held on
March 9, 1893, approximately 20 years after the founding of the Lodge.
On February 20, 1894, a special summoned Communication was held to celebrate the 21st anniversary of the founding of
Nepperhan Lodge No. 736. It was apparently quite a gala night, with 96 members and visiting brethren in attendance. The first
Master, Wor. E. L. Seger was present, apparently being well on in years, since he had been Master of Rising Star Lodge some
years prior to the formation of Nepperhan Lodge. At a meeting shortly afterwards, a new section was added to the By-Laws,
providing life membership for any Brother who had been continuously a member of Nepperhan Lodge for 21 years.
1894 — THE TWENTY-SECOND YEAR
The Lodge By-Laws were completely rewritten in 1894, although there were no startling revisions.
The initiation fee was made $25, with an extra $5, called the Steward's fee, to be paid prior to taking the Third Degree. The annual
dues remained at $6.00. A member was also given the privilege of paying $100, in return for which he was given life membership,
regardless of his age.
In this latter case, the money was turned over to the Trustees for deposit in a special fund, and the principal could never be touched,
the interest being turned over to the Lodge general funds. This was the birth of the sinking fund which remained in existence for
many years, and is still maintained but under different conditions. In this particular revision of the By-Laws, also, life membership
was provided after 21 years, making the Brother exempt from any dues other than Grand Lodge dues.
Social get-togethers were very rare other than actual Lodge Communications, but it is interesting to note that in July, 1894, Brother
Lederer invited the entire Lodge for a cruise and a picnic on his steam launch. It must have been a sizeable craft.
Another interesting requirement, in those early days of the Masonic Home, was the necessity, if a Lodge wished to obtain entrance
to the Home of one of its Brothers, of getting agreement in writing from a second Lodge before the application was approved. At
various times, Nepperhan received such requests from the Lodges in the area.
In 1894, also, Nepperhan finally obtained its own set of the three Great Lights (Bible, Square and Compasses) as a gift from our
own Wor. Moses Getty. It is assumed that, up until that time, we had utilized Rising Star's Great Lights.
Another interesting note appeared in the minutes of 1894, whereby a New York Lodge sent a communication to Nepperhan
requesting financial assistance because their Treasurer had absconded with all of the Lodge funds. The same letter was
presumably sent to many Lodges.
Nepperhan sent $5 to Grand Lodge, with the request that it be forwarded to the Lodge in trouble, after verification of the facts.
At the end of 1894, membership had risen to 80 members. At the annual meeting Robert L. Calkins was elected Master.
About this time, the minutes recorded an invitation from Solomon's Lodge to attend the public installation of its officers. This is
interesting, because the writer (and many others) had assumed that installations had always been in closed lodges until a very few
years ago.
1895 — THE TWENTY-THIRD YEAR
In 1895, among other petitions for membership, was Edward A. Sutherland. Your editor of this history had the privilege of presenting
Brother Sutherland with his 60 year Palm during my term as Master in 1955. Also in 1895, a communication was received from
Woodbine Chapter of Eastern Star, the first reference found to O. E. S. in Nepperhan minutes.
During 1895, Nepperhan received its third Grand Lodge appointment when Moses D. Getty, past Master, was made District Deputy
of the Ninth District. At the annual meeting in December, 1895, Charles Hepenstal was elected and installed as Master,
1896 — THE TWENTY-FOURTH YEAR
During 1896, the Lodge was busy with degree work at almost every Communication. One of the Brothers initiated that year was
Herbert Cutbill, who was presented his 60 year Palm in 1956 by the Master, Wor. Raymond Dykes.
1897 — THE TWENTY-FIFTH YEAR
The Master in 1897 was E. W. Taylor. His year was mostly degree work, but there was one joint meeting with Rising Star Lodge
attended by the Grand Master and his staff.
Also during that year, Nepperhan assisting Rising Star Lodge in dedicating and unveiling a Masonic monument in Oakland
Cemetery, and this monument still stands in the Cemetery, not far from the Ashburton Avenue entrance. The year 1897 also marked
a revision to the Grand Lodge Constitution, whereby a Metropolitan District was created, consisting of Lodges in Norfolk and Suffolk
Counties, New York City, and Westchester County, It was also provided that, in alternate years, the Grand Master would come from
the Metropolitan District or the Upper New York District.The Deputy Grand Master would be from the other district.
1898 — THE TWENTY-SIXTH YEAR
On June 20, 1898, Nepperhan Lodge held a 25th birthday celebration. The affair was held at Teutonia Hall on Buena Vista Avenue,
later known as the Prospect House. About 200 were present, including the Grand Master and numerous present and past Grand
Lodge officers. Afterthe guests enjoyed a "sumptuous" dinner, Wor. Lyman Cobb, Chairman, introduced Rt. Wor. Ralph E. Prime
who related the 25 year history of Nepperhan Lodge, Other speakers followed and there was music and entertainment. Cost to the
Lodge was approximately $400.
1899 — THE TWENTY-SEVENTH YEAR
In those years leading up to 1900, collection of dues was still a problem. Several members were unaffiliated and, in some cases,
dues were remitted. The minutes of January 26, 1899, disclosed that Wor. E. L. Seger, first Master of Nepperhan, was delinquent,
but that his dues were remitted since he was retired and "spending his declining years at Armonk, N. Y."
The year 1899 also marked the end of the use of the Yonkers Savings Bank building as a Lodge Room. At votes taken in
Nepperhan Lodge, Rising Star Lodge, the Chapter and the Commandery, it was agreed to move to the Hollywood Inn. The rent for
Nepperhan Lodge was to be $200 per year. The actual dedication of the new Lodge Rooms took place on June 27, 1899, and
Nepperhan's first meeting there occurred on July 6, 1899.
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1900 — THE TWENTY-EIGHTH YEAR
In 1900, following a disastrous hurricane in Texas, all Lodges were requested, if possible, to make a donation for unfortunate victims
of the storm. Nepperhan Lodge appropriated $25 for this purpose. One must assume that this was before the days when a state or
locality could declare a state of emergency and obtain relief from the federal government.
The 500th Communication of Nepperhan Lodge No. 736 took place on Thursday, October 11, 1900 in the Hollywood Inn Lodge
Rooms, during the term of E. F. Howard as Worshipful Master. At that meeting, Rt. Wor. Ralph E. Prime, who had just returned from
a trip to the Middle East, related his experiences on that journey, and described a visit to the Royal Solomon Mother Lodge of
Jerusalem. In that same trip, Rt. Wor. Bro. Prime also visited England and visited a number of Lodges there. He announced that he
had obtained a Perfect Ashlar which had been excavated from Zion's Well in Jerusalem, and presented same to Nepperhan Lodge.
The death of Queen Victoria of England occurred that year. Among her other titles, she was also known as "Patroness of Ancient
Craft Masonry in England", and a page was set aside in the minutes of Nepperhan Lodge as a memorial to her. A page was also set
aside for her son and successor, King Edward VII, who at that time assumed the title "Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masonry in
England".
1901 — THE TWENTY-NINTH YEAR
In the minutes of a September, 1901, meeting, a communication was entered from the Grand Master, noting the death, by
assassination, of Brother William McKinley, President of the United States. This was the second time that a Masonic president had
been assassinated. As in the case of Queen Victoria, a page of the minute book was set aside in memory of Brother McKinley.
1902/1903 — THE THIRTIETH AND THIRTY-FIRST YEARS
At the annual meeting in December, 1902, W. C, Prime, who had only been raised four years previously, was elected and installed
as Worshipful Master. He was a son of Rt. Wor. Ralph E. Prime, and he emulated Rt. Wor. R. E. Prime, in that he held the office of
Master for three terms.
Other three term Masters over the years were Moses Getty, Edward J. MacSorley and George Ampagoomian. The Secretary's
report, as of December, 1902, listed 117 members. This reflected little change in numbers from the previous years, largely because
the Lodge had been taking decisive action in unaffiliating delinquent members, thereby offsetting the large number of new members
raised during that period.
1904 — THE THIRTY-SECOND YEAR
In February, 1904, the Grand Master visited Nepperhan Lodge. The minutes gave no particular reason for the visit, but there was a
turnout of over 150 Masons. In April, 1904, notice was received that Radium Lodge in Ossining was being formed, and was
presently U. D. (under dispensation).
During those years, Nepperhan Lodge had no Fellowcraft Team, and would customarily ask Lodges with teams to present the
Drama at Third Degrees. One such example occurred on April 28, 1904, when a team and a choir came all the way from East
Orange, N. J., to put on the Drama.
Fifty-three members of Nepperhan were present that night, as well as 119 visiting Brothers from New York City and Westchester,
plus 46 visiting brethren from Hope Lodge of East Orange, N. J., including the Past Grand Master of New Jersey. Your editor never
had the opportunity to see the Lodge Rooms in the Hollywood Inn, but the attendance of 218 must certainly have strained the
capacity to the utmost. Incidentally, one of the Brothers raised that night to the Sublime Degree was Robert W. Anderson, who was
later Master of the Lodge and later held the post of Secretary for many years.
1905 — THE THIRTY-THIRD YEAR
Nepperhan Lodge had a public installation of its officers on January 5, 1905, at which time Wor. W. C. Prime was installed for his
third and last term as Master. Expenses for refreshment amounted to $18.86. Two hundred members, wives and guests were
present, and heard an address by a Past Grand Master. Sylvester and Ambrose Havey, undertakers, and both members of
Nepperhan Lodge, provided chairs for the occasion.
In the latter part of 1905, the By-Laws were amended to set the annual dues, which had been $6 per year since the founding of the
Lodge, to $6.50 per year. During 1905, it was also noted that Rt. Wor. Ralph E. Prime, who had already been District Deputy, had
now received an appointment as Grand Representative of the State of Oregon. The 600th Communication of Nepperhan Lodge
occurred on October 12, 1905, to honor the occasion, Rt. Wor. Moses Getty presented a United States flag to the Lodge, for display
at all Communications. The annual reports at the end of 1905 showed that the Lodge was indeed prospering. During the year, 18
Brothers were raised and three were affiliated, giving a membership at the end of the year of 142 Master Masons. Net worth of the
Lodge was approximately $1,700. At the annual elections, C. I. McCoy was elected Master for 1906.
1906 — THE THIRTY-FOURTH YEAR
At the first meeting in 1906, a reception was held for Rt. Wor. W. C. Prime, who, following in his father's footsteps, had been
appointed District Deputy. Oddly enough, he had just been elected Senior Deacon of Nepperhan for that year. Fortunately, the By-
Laws had recently been amended to provide for an Assistant Senior Deacon, a post filled by Robert W. Anderson, a future
Secretary of Nepperhan and a future Grand Lodge officer.
At the official visit of Rt. Wor. W. C. Prime to his own Lodge, he presented to the Lodge, on behalf of Brothers Mee, Soeteman, Van
Suetendail and himself, a mat to be used in the Middle Chamber Lecture. It is assumed that this is still the same mat presently in the
Yonkers Temple.
At the meeting of April 26, 1906, mention was made of the great earthquake and fire in San Francisco, and the Lodge voted to send
$100 for the relief of "distressed members of the human family". Another big night for Nepperhan Lodge occurred at the 618th
Communication on October 11, 1906. The occasion was a Third Degree at which the Grand Master, Most Wor. Townsend Scudder,
was present and participated in the degree before a crowded Lodge. At the same meeting, Rt. Wor. W. C. Prime, who had visited
the Holy Lands during the summer months, presented to the Lodge a gavel which he had caused to be made; the base was made of
limestone taken from the Royal Quarries of King Solomon, and the handle made of wood from an olive tree on the Mount of Olives.
He also presented a set of working tools made from olive wood. Degree work occupied many of the meetings in 1906, and seven
Brothers were raised. Six Brothers were unaffiliated, however, for non-payment of dues, leaving a membership of 150 at the end of
the year.
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1907 — THE THIRTY-FIFTH YEAR
Early in 1907, word was received that Eli Seger, the first Master of Nepperhan Lodge, was now in a home for the aged in Brooklyn,
that he was destitute, and that he was in extremely poor condition, both physically and mentally. The Lodge made arrangements to
pay $10 per month for his care for the remainder of his life. The year 1907 marked the beginning of Collabergh Lodge in Croton-on-
Hudson. At an official visit to Nepperhan Lodge, District Deputy W. C. Prime presented gavels made of wood from Cedars of
Lebanon to Collabergh Lodge, White Plains Lodge, Rising Star Lodge, and presented to Nepperhan Lodge three such gavels,
together with a trowel and a stone mason's hammer. Degree work in 1907 continued heavy, with petitions coming in almost faster
than they could be handled. At a meeting on May 23, 1907, five candidates were put through the First Degree; then, presumably
with permission from Grand Lodge, the same five Brothers received the Second Degree. To finish off what must have been a long
evening, the Lodge considered un-Masonic charges against a Lodge in New York City, received two new applications for
membership, and balloted individually on five candidates for initiation (one of whom was rejected), and then closed "in peace and
harmony". During this year, also, possibly because of the huge influx of applications, the By-Laws were amended to set the initiation
fee at $50 (it had been $30). The Secretary's annual report at the end of 1907 indicated that 21 Brothers had been raised, three
affiliated, five died and one dimitted, leaving a total membership of 166.
1908 — THE THIRTY-SIXTH YEAR
Peter Soeteman was elected and installed as Master for 1908. A public installation was held, as in the previous year, at which a
Past Grand Master was Installing Officer, and the present Grand Marshal acted as Marshal. During 1908, the minutes reveal that
Dunwoodie Lodge was officially constituted. This was the first Lodge established in Yonkers since the constitution of Nepperhan in
1873. In July, 1908, word was received of the death of Wor. Eli L. Seger, the first Master of Nepperhan Lodge. He was 84 years of
age. The Lodge purchased a grave in Mt. Hope Cemetery, and Wor. Bro. Seger was buried there, with Masonic services at the
graveside. At the annual meeting in December, 1908, it was reported that Wor. Bro. E. F. Howard, a Past Master of Nepperhan
Lodge, had been appointed as Assistant Grand Lecturer. This was apparently a new position, because up until then, the District
Deputy had been responsible for the ritual in the District, including-Schools of Instruction, Robert W. Anderson, a future long-time
Secretary, was elected as Master for 1909. The membership at the annual meeting also voted to raise the salary of the Secretary
and the organist to $100 per year.
1909 — THE THIRTY-SEVENTH YEAR
In 1909, Nepperhan Lodge was notified by Rising Star Lodge, that Nepperhan's rent, which had been $100 per year, was being
raised to $250 per year. Nepperhan had, in conjunction with Dunwoodie Lodge, been looking into the possibility of constructing a
Masonic Temple, This increase in rent gave additional impetus to the project, and the Lodge voted an appropriation of $1,000
towards such construction. Late in 1909, Nepperhan Lodge was asked to consent to the forming of a new Lodge in Yonkers, to be
known as Bryn Mawr Lodge. Approval was given. Also forming at the same time was Yonkheer Lodge, and seven members of
Nepperhan withdrew to become members of that Lodge. Membership in Nepperhan at the end of 1909 was 162. At the annual
meeting, F. M. Johnson was elected to serve as Master in 1910.
1910 — THE THIRTY-EIGHTH YEAR
The minutes of the January 13, 1910 meeting reveal that the Masonic Temple Committee (representatives from all Yonkers Lodges)
had purchased a plot of ground on "South Broadway between property owned by the Elks and the Arlington Inn" for $13,500. The
"Yonkers Masonic Guild" was to be immediately incorporated. There would be 12 Trustees, one from each Lodge which contributed
$250 or more, and the others to be selected by the bondholders. Nepperhan Lodge, as previously noted, had already voted to put
$1,000 into the project. A Masonic Fair, sponsored by all the Yonkers Lodges, realized a profit of $3,500 to be applied to the Temple
Building Fund.
The minutes of 1910 also disclose that a request was received from Bryn Mawr Lodge for the Nepperhan Degree Team to enact the
Drama at a Third Degree. This is the first reference found in the minutes regarding a Degree Team, so we must assume that it was
originally formed about this time. Another request was received from Rising Star Lodge shortly thereafter. In our own Lodge, a
Second Degree was put on by Past Masters, with the East occupied by Wor. Bro. Moses Getty, twenty-five years after he first
served as Worshipful Master. A total of 16 Brothers were raised to the Sublime Degree in 1910. At the annual meeting, B.
FitzGibbon was elected Master for the year 1911.
1911 — THE THIRTY-NINTH YEAR
The year 1911 was relatively uneventful. Outside of our own Lodge, the Degree Team presented the Drama at Dunwoodie Lodge
and Westchester Lodge. One of those raised in Nepperhan was Spencer H, Anderson, who recently passed away, after 66 years as
a Mason. Although living in Connecticut, he appeared in Lodge to receive both his 50 year pin and his 60 year Palm. It was the first
year that the Lodge paid the expenses for the Master to travel to Utica, a practice that has been customary ever since. And it was in
December that a group of Scottish Masons in Yonkers asked our consent to petition Grand Lodge to approve the formation of a new
Lodge to be known as Thistle Lodge. Approval was given. Membership at the end of the year was 164, down from the previous year
because the seven new members were offset by two deaths, four dimits and two unaffiliations for non-payment of dues. Cash on
hand was $1,000.
1912 — THE FORTIETH YEAR
Wor. Bro. Robert W. Anderson was elected as Nepperhan's Master for 1912, his second term, since he had also been Master in
1909. At a Third Degree in February, the minutes reveal that a part in the Degree was taken by Worshipful S. MacPhail, first Master
of the newly-formed Thistle Lodge (U. D.). The minutes of May 9th told how Thistle Lodge and Fernbrook Lodge had been granted
their Charters at the Grand Lodge Session just concluded. The same minutes noted that the Master of Hope Lodge, East Orange,
N. J. (a Lodge which frequently exchanged visits with Nepperhan) had been lost in the sinking of the Titanic. A letter of condolence
was sent. Eighteen Masons were raised during the year, and two were affiliated. At the end of the year, the membership rolls totaled
181 members. George Mee (a son of F. B. Mee who was Master in 1907) was elected Master for the year 1913.
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1913 — THE FORTY-FIRST YEAR
The 40th anniversary of the founding of Nepperhan Lodge took place on February 13, 1913.
Entertainment was enjoyed by all present, including the Deputy Grand Master and the District Deputy. Also present were Masters
from all other Yonkers Lodges and many visiting brethren.
The minutes of February 27th offered an interesting note -- Thistle Lodge requested the Nepperhan Team to portray the Third
Degree Drama. This was probably one of the few instances that Thistle Lodge used another degree team since, although they were
only one year old, they were already forming their own Fellowcraft Team, which was to become so renowned in later years. During
the year another Nepperhan Brother received the Purple, Wor. E. F. Howard, Master in 1900 and 1901, being appointed Grand
Director of Ceremonies. There were 12 members raised during the year, and membership total at the end of the year was 191. Your
editor got quite a smile at the total bill for refreshments for the year which came to $169.48, including $42.50 for cigars (apparently
boxes of cigars were set out at each meeting). At the elections in December, John Cullen was elected as Master for the ensuing
year.
1914 — THE FORTY-SECOND YEAR
In 1914, the European countries were at war, and the Grand Master composed a Prayer for Peace, which was to be read in every
Lodge. At year's end, membership had risen to 193, but six deaths and two dimits had reduced the total to 185. The annual meeting
in December resulted in the election of Leslie Sutherland as Worshipful Master. Rt. Wor. Moses D. Getty acted as Installing Master,
as he had so many times in the past.
1915 — THE FORTY-THIRD YEAR
The year 1915 was relatively quiet, although seven Brothers were raised. At one of the Third Degrees, the Thistle Lodge Fellowcraft
Team presented the Drama, and the minutes described the "smart Highland costumes" as they performed their precise drill. During
that year, Rt. Wor. R. E. Prime, one of our Charter members, who had dimitted from Nepperhan to be one of the founders of
Yonkheer Lodge, was presented with an honorary membership to Nepperhan. He was escorted into the Lodge for the presentation
by his son, Rt. Wor. W. C. Prime, who, likewise had left Nepperhan to be a founding Brother of Yonkheer Lodge. At the annual
meeting in December, 1915, the Secretary's report showed that membership had again dropped, this time to 180, largely because
there were two dimits, four deaths, one resignation, and five unaffiliations. Refreshment bills for the year totaled $94, of which $25
was for cigars and $34 for ice cream. Ah, for those good old days!! The elections named Walter Blackburn as Master for the ensuing
year.
1916 — THE FORTY-FOURTH YEAR
Many events of interest happened to, and in, Nepperhan Lodge in 1916. Our 800th Communication occurred early in the year. Upon
our request, our rent for the Hollywood Inn Lodge Rooms was reduced from $250 to $175 per annum. On September 23rd, with the
Grand Master present, the cornerstone for the new Temple, on South Broadway at Guion Street, was laid.
The cost of the cornerstone ceremony was $1,000 which was shared by the Lodges on a percapita basis. This came to 50 cents per
member, which indicated that the seven Lodges then existing in Yonkers represented a total Yonkers membership of 2,000 Masons.
In Nepperhan, six members were raised that year, one of whom was Alfred Watson, who would later serve as Master of Nepperhan,
and as Mayor of Yonkers.
A severe blow to all the Lodges occurred on November 20th, when the Hollywood Inn was completely destroyed by fire. Most of
our Lodge's possessions were lost, including working tools, candidate's clothing, gloves, aprons and jewels. The organ was also
destroyed, of which we had a 50% interest. Fortunately (for your editor), all the historical records of the Lodge, including all minute
books, were saved (probably they were kept in the Secretary's home). Temporary quarters for the Lodge were obtained in the Elk's
Lodge Rooms, with permission from the Grand Master. At the annual elections in December, the same slate of officers was reelected
for another year.
1917 — THE FORTY-FIFTH YEAR
During 1917, World War I was being fought, and Nepperhan Lodge voted to remit the dues of all brethren in the armed services.
The Lodge also purchased $500 worth of Liberty Bonds. The big event of the year (other than the war) was the dedication and
opening of the new Masonic Temple at its present location. The first meeting of Nepperhan Lodge in the new Temple occurred on
September 13, 1917. The actual dedication of the Temple was on September 15, 1917. Rent of Nepperhan Lodge in the Temple
was set at $400 per annum, payable quarterly. Membership at the end of 1917 was 187, and our cash on hand had shrunk to $898.
At the annual elections, Palmer Hall Stilson was elected Master for 1918.
1918 — THE FORTY-SIXTH YEAR
The year 1918 marked the continuance of World War I, and many Brothers from Nepperhan served their country. On January 12th,
Thistle Lodge, with the consent of the Grand Master, conferred all three degrees on a candidate leaving for military service. This
was Brother Alex.
Cunningham who, in later years, became organist for Nepperhan Lodge. During the year, our Nepperhan dues were raised to $8.00,
necessitated by the higher Masonic Temple rentals. New members of the Lodge that year, among others, were Alfred Senftner and
Walter M, Hausel, who later became, respectively, Lodge Historian and Lodge Treasurer. During the year, another $100 Liberty
Bond was purchased, and Rt. Wor. Moses Getty presented the Lodge with a new Bible, to replace the one lost in the Hollywood Inn
fire. Our Masonic District, then known as the Twelfth, was, at the session of Grand Lodge, separated into two Districts, the First and
the Second Westchester-Putnam Districts. During that year, there was a severe flu epidemic, and the Lodge meetings in October
were cancelled at the request of the Board of Health. At our annual meeting in December, the Secretary's report showed
membership slightly lower at 178. Cash on hand was down to $739. Edward J. MacSorley was elected Master for 1919.
1919 — THE FORTY-SEVENTH YEAR
In 1919 Wor. Walter G. Blackburn presented five small Bibles and five sets of Squares and Compasses for candidates in degree
work. Also, Rt. Wor. Moses D. Getty, in celebration of 50 years as a Mason, presented the Lodge with an American flag, to replace
the one lost in the Hollywood Inn fire. During the year a petition for membership was received from Wm. F. Grimm, later to become
Worshipful Master and a Grand Lodge Officer. Wor. Walter Blackburn was appointed Assistant Grand Lecturer for the First and
Second Districts. Several By-Law changes were authorized, one of which raised the salary of the Secretary to $150 per year. Also
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evised was the initiation fee, which became effective at the end of that year. Whether that latter provision was the reason, your
editor does not know, but in the November meeting eight applications were received, topped off by a record 26 applications in
December. The Secretary's annual report indicated 14 Brothers were raised during the year. Membership at the end of the year
totaled 190, and the cash-on-hand was $1,382. At the elections, Wor. Edward MacSorley won another year as Master.
1920 — THE FORTY-EIGHTH YEAR
The year 1920 was certainly a degree year. In January and February alone, no less than 28 candidates were put through the First
Degree. Special Communications were the order of the day; in fact, on July 1st and July 8th ten Brothers (five on each night)
received the Sublime Degree.
One "of the applications for membership during the year was from Kristen Kristensen, later to become Master of the Lodge, District
Deputy of the First Westchester-Putnam District, and a longtime Mayor of the City of Yonkers. The annual report of the Secretary
shows that no less than 38 Brothers were raised during the year, which certainly must have set some sort of a record, at least for
our Lodge. Membership at the end of the year was 222, including four Entered Apprentices and two Fellowcrafts. During the year,
there were 18 regular meetings and 11 special meetings, also undoubtedly a record. Receipts during the year were $4,342.91 and
disbursements were $3,955 (including $73.40 for cigars). Cash on hand at year end was $2,340. During the year one of our
prominent members passed away, Rt. Wor. Ralph E. Prime, a Charter member, our first Secretary, and a faithful and devoted
member, until he left to help form Yonkheer Lodge. At the annual meeting, George F. Nugent was elected Worshipful Master for
1921. As had been done several years back, a public installation was held.
1921 — THE FORTY-NINTH YEAR
During the year, a memorial tablet to those Yonkers Masons who served in World War I was unveiled in the lobby of the Temple,
and dedicated by the Grand Master. Also, during the year, our Past Master, Walter Blackburn, was honored with the Purple, being
appointed as Grand Swordbearer. He was the seventh Nepperhan Brother to become a Grand Lodge Officer. He was presented his
apron at our meeting of June 23, 1921. In October, our last surviving Charter member, E. Alex. Houston, passed away. The Altar
was draped for 30 days in his memory. During the year, 21 new Brothers were raised, leaving the total membership at the end of the
year at 235 members. Cash on hand had now risen to $3,446.68. At the annual meeting, John R. Bray was elected Master for 1922.
1922 — THE FIFTIETH YEAR
The public installation of officers was again held in January, 1922, and, it also being our 900th Communication, special
entertainment was enjoyed. The minutes note that the rent for the Masonic Temple was changed from a flat $400 per year to a percapita
tax of $1.40 per member plus $10 for each initiate. During the year, a delegation of 25 Nepperhan Brothers travelled to Utica
for the dedication of the new Soldiers and Sailors Hospital at the Masonic Home. It was reportedly the largest gathering of Masons
from all over the state ever recorded for a single event. During the year, 23 Brothers were raised to the Sublime Degree, bringing
the membership at year end to 242 Brothers, of whom 40 were Life Members. Cash on hand was $3,779.
Alfred Watson, later to be Mayor of Yonkers, was elected to serve as Master in 1923. Kris Kristensen, also to serve as Mayor of
Yonkers, was elected Junior Warden.
1923 — THE FIFTY-FIRST YEAR
During 1923, the Fiftieth anniversary of Nepperhan Lodge was celebrated at a gala affair including music, speeches and dancing.
The Grand Master and many visiting dignitaries were present.
Because of the rapidly increasing membership, with its attendant duties, the Secretary's salary was raised to $200 per year. In June,
it was announced that Wor. Walter Blackburn was again being honored with the appointment as District Deputy of the District. The
Lodge gave its approval to a request for the formation of a new Lodge to be known as Van Cortlandt Lodge. At the end of the year,
the membership had reached 262 Brothers. Eighteen were raised during the year, and the cash on hand rose to $5,536. The annual
meeting resulted in the election of Alfred Senftner as Master for 1924.
1924 — THE FIFTY-SECOND YEAR
In the early part of 1924, the minutes reveal that the cornerstone for a new Temple to be built in Dobbs Ferry by Diamond Lodge
was laid on February 22nd. Also, a petition was received requesting our approval for the formation of a new Lodge in Yonkers, to be
known as Hawthorne Lodge. Approval was given. The big event of the year was the homecoming of Rt. Wor. Walter Blackburn,
District Deputy Grand Master. Fourteen past District Deputies of this District were present, and 18 present District Deputies,
colleagues of our Brother from the Metropolitan District were also there. There were also delegations from all lodges in the District.
Twenty Brothers were raised during the year and membership at the end of 1924 was 270 Brothers. Kris Kristensen was elected to
serve as Master in 1925. Wm. Grimm, later to receive a Grand Lodge appointment, was elected Junior Warden.
1925 — THE FIFTY-THIRD YEAR
The year 1925 was once again heavy with degree work. There were 16 nights of degree conferral, including a Third Degree
conferred by the Masters of the First Westchester-Putnam District.
Twenty-five members were raised during the year, and the total membership at the end of the year was an even 300. The Lodge
authorized the expenditure of $1,150 for the purchase of uniforms for our Degree Team, the same outfits in the possession of the
Lodge at the time of this writing.
Also during the year, one of our Brothers contracted Tuberculosis and the Lodge donated a total of $859 for his relief. At the annual
meeting, Wm. Schwartz was elected Master for 1926.
1926 —THE FIFTY-FOURTH YEAR
Again, degree work occupied much of the time of the Lodge in 1926. Fifteen meeting nights were engaged in one of the degrees.
Also, during the year, the Grand Master announced the appointment of Henry Meacham as the Grand Lecturer. Rt. Wor. Bro.
Meecham became the author of many books on Masonry, and is best remembered for his book on Masonic Etiquette.
Also, during the year, the Lodge subscribed to the "Masonic Outlook", predecessor to the "Empire State Mason", for all of its
members. In November, a banquet and dance, sponsored by the Lodge, was held at the Elk's Club. At the annual elections in
December, Wm. F. Grimm was elected Master for 1927. Installation took place the same evening. Nineteen Brothers were raised in
1926, and the membership at the end of the year stood at 306. As an interesting note, $42.45 was spent on cigars during the year.
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1927 —THE FIFTY-FIFTH YEAR
The year 1927 brought several happenings worthy of notice. A severe flood in the Mississippi valley and a disastrous hurricane in
Florida both brought donations from Nepperhan Lodge. In March, the De Molay Chapter was welcomed into the Lodge and
performed one of their degrees.
The big event of the year occurred on June 9, 1927, when Nepperhan celebrated its 1000th Communication. From our own Lodge,
225 members were present, probably the largest gathering of Nepperhan Brothers which ever happened. Distinguished Nepperhan
Brothers in attendance Included Rt. Wor. Moses D. Getty, celebrating 58 years as a Mason, and our other two living Right
Worshipfuls, E. F. Howard and Walter G. Blackburn. All 21 living Past Masters were present, including the Master from 1885, 1892,
1897 to 1901, and every Master from 1908 to 1927.
Entertainment and refreshments were enjoyed. Also in 1927, the By-Laws were amended to change the dues from $8 to $12.
Among the membership applications received were those, from Albert Cooper and Sidney White, both of whom received their 50
year service awards this year (1978). At the annual election, John Magill was elected Master for 1928. During the year, 15 Brothers
were were raised, and the total membership advanced to 319. Current assets at the end of the year were $5,833.
1928 — THE FIFTY-SIXTH YEAR
The year 1928 was an eventful year. Two Grand Lodge appointments were received, one for Kris Kristensen as D. D. and one for E.
J. MacSorley as Grand Representative to Montana. During the year an elevator was installed in the Yonkers Masonic Temple, at
cost of $7,293, a welcome addition to those who had to climb to the upper floors. A very sad event was the death of Rt. Wor. Moses
D. Getty who, for so many years, had been "Mr. Nepperhan Lodge". He was the senior Past Master, having served the Lodge as
Master in 1885, 1886, and 1892. He was 60 years a Mason, 55 years of which was as a member of Nepperhan. He was District
Deputy in 1897, and was 84 years of age at the time of his death. Masonic services were held in the Masonic Temple and there was
a great outpouring of Brothers from all over the District. The annual meeting disclosed a year-end total membership of 321. Cash on
hand was now $9,121. Wm. Poole was elected Master for 1929.
1929 — THE FIFTY-SEVENTH YEAR
In 1929, another amendment to By-Laws was noted, whereby a paid-up Brother, upon payment of $200, could obtain life
membership and pay no further dues other than Grand Lodge dues and assessments. The Secretary's salary was raised, setting it
at an annual stipend of $1 per member.
During the year, a big event was the homecoming of our District Deputy, Rt. Wor. Kristen Kristensen. Every Master of every Lodge
in the District was present, plus ten Metropolitan District Deputies, 77 Past Masters from the District, and a large group of sideliners.
The minutes also reveal the formation of Hastings Lodge that year. Other big events were a dinner dance at the Abbey Inn, and a
visit from Hawthorne Lodge including their Master, Wor. Leslie Sutherland, (a Past Master of Nepperhan), and 75 Brothers. At the
annual meeting, Harold Rose was elected Master for 1930. Membership at the end of 1929 totaled 329 Brothers, the highest ever
reached. Cash balance as of December 31, 1929, was $7,333.
1930 — THE FIFTY-EIGHTH YEAR
The year 1930 was a relatively quiet year, perhaps because the beginning of the Great Depression of the 30's caused many
organizations to cut back on many of their plans. A sad event was the death of another of our old-time Past Masters, Wor. J. A.
Hauser, who was raised in 1895 and was Master in 1899. The Fellowcraft Team was quite active during the year, performing for
several other Lodges as well as our own. Only five Brothers were raised during the year and, for the first time in many years, our
membership dropped slightly, standing at 327 at year end. Our bank balance showed $7,775 cash on hand. At the annual election,
James Campbell was elected as Master for 1931.
1931 —THE FIFTY-NINTH YEAR
The year 1931 was another uneventful year, with only three Brothers being raised. With nine deaths and nine unaffiliations for nonpayment
of dues, the membership dropped back to 310 Brothers. Two of the deaths were two of our senior Past Masters,
Worshipfuls E. W. Taylor and Philip Fitz, Masters in 1897 and 1898 respectively. Raymond Case and James Thomson were elected
as Master and Senior Warden, respectively, for the year 1932.
1932 —THE SIXTIETH YEAR
The year 1932 got off to a bad start with the death of our newly elected Junior Warden, Jason James. The Lodge paid all hospital
and funeral expenses. On a happier note, the Lodge members attended the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the founding of
Thistle Lodge, and were welcomed by Thistle's Master, Wor. Peter Barr. Unemployment was becoming an increasing problem in
those depression years, and the Lodge voted to donate $30 to the unemployment committee of the First Westchester-Putnam
District Association. During the year, a rather unusual event occurred when the Lodge opened on the Third Degree, then went from
labor to refreshment, travelled to the Upper Lodge Room, entered Hawthorne Lodge as a delegation to welcome the District Deputy,
then moved downstairs again, resumed labor and conferred the Fellowcraft Degree on Brothers in waiting. At the annual elections in
December, James Thomson was elected as Master for 1933. During the year 1932, our membership dropped to 303, largely due to
deaths and unaffiliations.
1933 — THE SIXTY-FIRST YEAR
The depression continued to hold a rein on Lodge activities during 1933. Only two new Brothers were raised, while ten died, two
dimitted, and 32 were unaffiliated for non-payment of dues.
Our membership dropped to 261, the lowest it had been since 1922. During the year, the By-Laws were amended to reduce the
annual dues from $12 to $10. It was also decided to present new members with a Monitor, rather than with a Master Mason
certificate as formerly. On February 29th (Leap Year Day), the 1100th Communication of the Lodge was noted. Among the ten
deaths were the passing of our 1931 Master, Wor. James Campbell, and the Senior Warden, Bro. Henry Martin Baird. Brother Baird
had previously been Treasurer of the Lodge, and was slated to become Master in 1934. The Ceremony of Investiture for all newly
elected Masters of the First Westchester-Putnam District was held for the first time in December, 1933. Leon E. Botting, who would
later serve as Secretary for many years, was elected Worshipful Master for 1934.
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1934 — THE SIXTY-SECOND YEAR
Again in 1934 there was little degree work, only one Brother being raised during the year. The Grand Lodge per-capita tax was
raised from $1 to $3, bringing problems to Lodges already beset with such. The Master, Leon Botting, did his best to provide an
interesting year, with "Past Master Night", "Roll Call Night", and "Life Members Night". The latter night was a huge success, with a
turnout of 24 Life Members, one of whom was Rt. Wor. E. F. Howard, Senior Past Master (1900). Three of the Brothers dated back
to the Class of 1891, and eight others were raised prior to 1900.
We lost another faithful Brother when Rt. Wor. Walter Blackburn passed away. The annual reports at the end of 1934 showed our
membership had dropped to 256. Cash on hand was $9,300. John Hensey was elected Master for the year 1935. At the annual
meeting, all three of our Rt. Worshipfuls and 13 Past Masters were present.
1935 — THE SIXTY-THIRD YEAR
In 1935, the Lodge continued to suffer from falling membership and poor attendance. For the second straight year we only raised
one candidate to the Sublime Degree and our membership fell to 249. Our financial status remained healthy, however, with cash on
hand amounting to $9,800.
Many social events were held, including card parties, outings, and Ladies' Nights. The big event of the year was a dinner dance held
at Murray's Parkway Casino, at which 172 were present, including 60 of our ladies. At the annual meeting in December, Henry
Storms was elected Master for 1936.
1936 — THE SIXTY-FOURTH YEAR
In 1936, membership continued to decline, but there were a number of pleasant, interesting nights.
At a meeting in January, we received a visit from Brother Frank Ellis, a member of Nepperhan, who had been a resident of the
Masonic Home in Utica for several years. He gave an interesting talk on life at the Home. The By-Laws were amended during the
year to decrease the initiation fee from $100 to $75. At another meeting, at refreshment, the members were instructed in the "new"
game of Bingo. Two more Past Masters died during the year, Wor. John Magill (1928) and Wor. John M. Cullen (1914). A happy
note, however, was recorded with the appointment of our longtime Secretary, R. W. Anderson, as Grand Steward, the ninth
Nepperhan Brother to wear the Purple. Present at his reception were Rt. Wor. E. F. Howard, our senior Past Master (1900), eight
Past District Deputies from the District, delegations from many Lodges, and 16 of our own Past Masters. Rt. Wor. Bro. Anderson
was well-known and popular throughout the District and Metropolitan area. Membership at the end of the year was 234. At the
annual election, George F. W. Grimm was elected Master for 1937.
1937 — THE SIXTY-FIFTH YEAR
During 1937 our own Rt. Wor. E. J. MacSorley served as President of the District Association. The Secretary's salary, which had
been based on $1.00 per member, was fixed at $300 per year. On March 11th, rededication ceremonies were held, celebrating the
200th anniversary of Grand Lodge founding. The District Deputy and many distinguished visitors were present, and all joined in
repeating the Obligations of the Three Degrees, followed by lectures from our Right Worshipfuls on the meaning of those
Obligations. Hymns were sung by the assemblage, and it must have been an inspiring evening. Later in the year, the Past Masters
conferred a First Degree, with the East occupied by Wor. F. M. Johnson, who had been Master back in 1910. In honor to our ladies,
a dinner dance was held at the Colonial Manor on Tuckahoe Road. The minutes sadly record the death of our senior Past Master,
Rt. Wor. E. F. Howard, who had been Master in 1900 and 1901.
During the year, we raised seven new members, but this was offset by nine deaths, two dimits, and six unaffiliations, leaving our
membership at the end of the year at 224. At the annual meeting, James Case was elected Master for 1938. At the time of this
writing, he is the senior living Past Master of Nepperhan.
1938 —THE SIXTY-SIXTH YEAR
There were no candidates or no degree work in 1938, although our Degree Team continued presenting the Drama at other Lodges
in and out of the District. On April 7th, a delegation from Nepperhan attended the dedication of the new Phillipstown Lodge Masonic
Temple. Another big night was Constitution Night, celebrating the 150th anniversary of the adoption of the U. S. Constitution.
A curious point of interest was found in our minutes whereby the Grand Master requested all Lodges in the First Westchester-
Putnam District to vote whether they wished to divide into two districts, one constituting the Lodges in Yonkers, and the other
constituting Lodges elsewhere in the District than Yonkers. Nepperhan voted unanimously to retain the existing District, and it must
be assumed that the other Lodges did the same, since we are still one District at the time of this writing. The minutes disclosed no
reason for the request. Our 1200th Communication was noted by a reading of Nepperhan's history by Wor. Alfred Senftner, Lodge
Historian. During the year, we also reached the 65th anniversary of our founding, and quite a celebration was observed. There were
84 members of Nepperhan present, including 17 of our Past Masters. Principal speaker was Most Wor. John Dutton, Past Grand
Master of the Grand Lodge. Membership at the end of the year had dropped to 219. At the annual elections, Sidney White was
elected Master. Wor. Bro. White has just received his 50 year pin this year (1978).
1939 —THE SIXTY-SEVENTH YEAR
The year 1939 was a relatively inactive year within the Lodge, but with many related activities to keep the members busy. Our
Degree Team performed the second section of the Third Degree several times for Lodges in the Second District. Our bowling team
won the Anderson Cup, emblematic of the championship of the Yonkers Masonic Lodges. We lost another Past Master during the
year with the passing of Wor. Benjamin FitzGibbon, Master in 1911. Our Junior Warden, Arthur Thalacker, was appointed Police
Chief of Burlington, Vermont. His chair was filled for the balance of the year by Bro. Walter Hausel. On April 20th, there was a
testimonial dinner to Wor. Leslie Sutherland. May 11th was declared Masonic Home Night, and the various chairs were filled by the
present Masters from each of the Yonkers Masonic Lodges. The Grand Chaplain was the principal speaker. There were no new
members raised during the year, and the membership at the end of the year was down to 211 Brothers. At the annual election, Paul
L. Bleakley was elected Master for 1940. The Senior Warden was Walter Hausel, who would later become our Treasurer for many
years.
1940 — THE SIXTY-EIGHTH YEAR
In the early part of 1940, we received the first petition for membership in nearly three years. The petitioner was Raymond Sarmast
who, at the time of this writing, was still an active member and, at 87 years of age, probably our oldest living member. On March
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14th, we were honored by the presence of Most Wor. Charles Johnson, Past Grand Master and, at the time, Grand Secretary. He
gave an interesting talk to the members and visiting Brothers. At another meeting, Wor. Franklin Wheat, Assistant Grand Lecturer,
gave a talk on Masonic Etiquette. A Nepperhan delegation attended the 30th anniversary of Bryn Mawr Lodge, at which Grand
Master Henry Turner was the principal speaker. To cap off an interesting year, the Master had a Past Masters' Night, at which 18 of
our 22 living Past Masters were present. Membership at the end of the year was 204, with a bank balance of nearly $10,000. At the
annual elections, Walter Hausel was elected Master for 1941.
1941 — THE SIXTY-NINTH YEAR
The year 1941 started off with a testimonial dinner for Rt. Wor. Kristen Kristensen on January 29th, the occasion being the naming
of our distinguished Brother as Outstanding Citizen of Yonkers for 1940. The dinner was sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce,
and was held at the Hudson River Country Club. On February 28th, we sent a large delegation to Gorton High School, where Most
Wor. Henry Turner, Grand Master, held an area meeting. On June 12th, a large Nepperhan delegation travelled to Cold Spring to
attend the 90th anniversary celebration of Phillipstown Lodge. The Grand Master was also in attendance at that affair. The District
Deputy, Rt. Wor, Bro. Cornell, upon completion of his year, presented Nepperhan Lodge with a set of Bible markers for having the
largest attendance at his visitations. The By-Laws were amended during the year, decreasing the initiation fee from $75 to $60. The
father of Wor. Walter Hausel, our Master, donated an Altar cloth to the Lodge. We also had a visit from Rt. Wor. Richard Rowlands,
Junior Grand Warden, who was soon to become Grand Master, and who would be elected an honorary member of Nepperhan
Lodge. In the fall of the year, Nepperhan delegations attended Bryn Mawr Lodge for the reception to the new District Deputy, Rt.
Wor. Alan MacDougal, and to Thistle Lodge for the presentation to Rt. Wor. David Inverarity, newly appointed Grand Steward. The
final big event of the year was presentation of the 50 year Service Award to our Brothers Clark Sloan and George Peene.
Membership at the year end was 205. Both Wardens found it impossible to remain in the line, so Rt. Wor. Edward J. MacSorley was
elected to serve again as Master for the year 1942.
1941 — THE SEVENTIETH YEAR
The year 1942 was the first full year we were involved in World War II, and the effects were felt in Nepperhan Lodge in many ways.
The Lodge purchased $1,000 worth of Defense Bonds.
Attendance was spotty, largely because many of our Brothers were either in the Armed Services, or busy at defense work. Leon
Botting was elected Worthy Patron of Woodbine Chapter, O. E. S.
Theodore Wicht, our Tiler for many years, received his 50 year Service Pin from Rising Star Lodge. Our Lodge was saddened by
the loss of two more Past Masters, Wor. F. M. Johnson, Master in 1910, and Wor. Palmer Hall Shilson, Master in 1918. Our
Treasurer, Bro. Robert Light, resigned in mid-year, replaced by Wor. Walter M. Hausel. On October 30th, a joint meeting was held
with the other Yonkers Lodges in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Masonic Home in Utica. Guest speaker
was Rt. Wor. Charles Foressel, soon to become Grand Master and, at the time of this writing, the senior Past Grand Master. In
November, Wor. Leslie Sutherland was presented with his 50 year pin in the presence of many Masonic dignitaries from all over the
District. At the annual elections, once again both of our Wardens declined further office, and Wor. Leon Botting once again was
elected to the Master's chair. Membership rolls still decreased because, although we raised five Brothers, we lost eight through
deaths and one throughunaffiliation, leaving a total at the end of 1942 of 201 Brothers.
1943 — THE SEVENTY-FIRST YEAR
In 1943 we had several nights of degree work, but otherwise not much activity. Social activity was also greatly curtailed,
undoubtedly because of war conditions. The Lodge, in a very thoughtful gesture, remitted the dues of the five Brothers in the Armed
Forces at that time. Membership at the end of the year amounted to 205. Once again, at the annual elections, a Past Master was
called back to duty as Wor. Alfred Watson was elected Master for 1944. Seventeen Past Masters were present at the annual
meeting.
1944 — THE SEVENTY-SECOND YEAR
During 1944, the Lodge registered its 1300th Communication on March 9th. The death was reported of Brother George Peene, 52
years a member of Nepperhan Lodge. It was reported that, for the third year in a row, Nepperhan had exceeded its War Chest
Quota. At a meeting of September 14, 1944, only five members were present, plus organist William Heyney, because of a terrible
hurricane that day, which many readers of this history may recall. In any case, the meeting went ahead with its regular business
even though the organist, Bro. Heyney, had to act as Tiler.
During the year, Bro. John Forsyth received his 50 year Service Award. Also, all the Yonkers Lodges combined to have a Masonic
Night at St. John's Episcopal Church, in honor of the Church's 250th anniversary. A flag was presented to the Church by the
combined Lodges. Lodge membership at the end of the year was down to 201. At the annual meeting in December, Nicholas Milton
was elected to serve as Master in 1945.
1945 — THE SEVENTY-THIRD YEAR
In 1945, degree work picked up once again, with eight Brothers raised to the Sublime Degree, and several others in waiting. At the
Communication of April 12th, the Lodge was notified of the death of Rt. Wor. Franklin D. Roosevelt, President of the United States,
on that very afternoon. The Lodge was raised in silent prayer. During the year, Fifty Year Service Medals were awarded to Brothers
George Curran and Edward Sutherland. Brother Sutherland also lived to receive his 60 year Palm from your editor, who was Master
in 1955. A note of sadness occurred when word was received of the death of Wor. Leslie Sutherland, who passed away on June 6,
1945 in North Carolina. He was a former Mayor of Yonkers, and was Master of Nepperhan in 1915. He was a member of the Lodge
for 53 years. On November 1st, our Brothers and their wives and other guests enjoyed dining and dancing at the Rock House.
Lodge membership during the year went back up to 204, and our cash on hand was slightly better than $8,000. At the annual
meeting, Wm. M. Kent, Jr., was elected Master for 1946. Wor. Robert Anderson retired from the office of Secretary after more than
20 years, and Wor. Leon Botting was elected to replace him.
1946 — THE SEVENTY-FOURTH YEAR
The year 1946 registered a first for Nepperhan Lodge when our Senior Deacon, Albert Schweizer, conferred the Entered Apprentice
Degree upon candidates in waiting. It was the first time in the history of our Lodge that any Brother below the rank of Junior Warden
had conferred a Degree.
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According to the minutes, Brother Schweizer did an excellent job. One of the candidates that evening was Charles Zirkler, who later
moved to New Jersey, took a dual membership in a Lodge there, became Master of that Lodge, and later became District Deputy
Grand Master of that District. He still retains membership in Nepperhan Lodge. His brother, William G. Zirkler, joined Nepperhan a
few months after his brother, went on to become Nepperhan's Master, and later became District Deputy of the First Westchester-
Putnam District. It is one of the few instances where two blood brothers both became District Deputies. Another example of this, of
course, is theBarton brothers from Collabergh Lodge. A Ladies' Night was enjoyed on December 6th at the Fanshaw Restaurant
with dining, dancing and entertainment. During the year, Herbert Cutbill was presented with his 50 year pin, and was to live long
enough to get his 60 year Palm in 1956. In fact, Brother Cutbill went on to establish an all-time record in Nepperhan Lodge, having
reached 69 years as a member of Nepperhan before his death in 1965. Although ten Brothers were raised during the year, the
membership total only rose to 205, due to deaths and unaffiliations. At the annual elections, Charles McConnell was elected Master
for 1947.
1947 — THE SEVENTY-FIFTH YEAR
Degree work was again the order of business in 1947. In fact, early in the year, by special permission from Grand Lodge, seven
Brothers were raised in one night. A rather sad event occurred in February; the death of our Past Master (1929), Wor. William
Poole, was announced the same day that a notification came from Grand Lodge that he had been appointed a Grand
Representative. His Masonic funeral service took place in the Masonic Temple. During the year our Fellowcraft Degree Team was
reorganized after several years of inactivity. Another 50 year Service Award came to Nepperhan, this time to Brother George Allen.
Presentation was by the newly appointed District Deputy, Rt. Wor. Eysten L. Anderson. Later in the year, Wor. Bill Kent was
appointed District Service Representative. And another Grand Lodge appointment came our way, that of Wor. Wm. F. Grimm to
become a Grand Representative, filling the opening left by the death of Rt. Wor. Bro. Poole. Our three other living Right Worshipfuls,
Kris Kristensen, E. J. MacSorley, and R. W. Anderson were present at his reception. The By-Laws were amended, effective January
1, 1948, to change the initiation fee from $60 to $85, and the dues from $10 to $12 per year. Life membership was also changed so
that life members created thereafter would pay half dues instead of only Grand Lodge dues. Due to raising 15 Brothers during the
year, our membership rose to 216. At the annual elections, Frank Morrisey was elected Master for 1948.
1948 — THE SEVENTY-SIXTH YEAR
The year 1948 started off in a sad way with the deaths of Rt. Wor. Edward J. MacSorley and Bro. John Forsyth, a member of
Nepperhan for 54 years. Rt. Wor. MacSorley had been an outstanding, faithful and hard working Brother of Nepperhan Lodge and,
indeed, of the entire Masonic fraternity. His presence was sorely missed for some time. However, the mood of the Lodge turned to
joyous with the celebration of our 75th anniversary. It was a glad occasion with the guest speaker the Senior Grand Warden of
Grand Lodge, Rt. Wor. Richard Rowlands. The District Deputy, Rt. Wor. Eysten Anderson was also a speaker, as were our own
Wor. Harold Rose and Rt. Wor. William F. Grimm. During the year a delegation from Nepperhan also attended the 40th anniversary
of Dunwoodie Lodge. Another big night was when Bro. Joe Holland received his 50 year Service Award, escorted into Lodge by Bro.
George Allen, who had first proposed Bro. Holland as a member 50 years previously. On December 3, a festive Ladies' Night was
held at Mayer's Parkway Rest, with dining and dancing enjoyed by all. The year 1948 was also the year when your perspiring editor,
Rt. Wor. F. D. Maxwell, and the current Lodge Treasurer, Wor. Burton Bourne, were raised to the Sublime Degree. Membership at
the end of the year totaled 225 and, at the annual election, Albert Schweizer was elected Master for 1949.
1949 — THE SEVENTY-SEVENTH YEAR
The year 1949 was a busy year for degree work, with 16 Brothers being raised to the Sublime Degree. Among other candidates was
the late Charles Anderson who, for many years in Nepperhan, was famous for his "once around the ring" rendition of the questions
and answers pertaining to the Perambulation of the First Degree. During the year, we visited Van Cortlandt Lodge on the occasion
of their 25th anniversary. We also noted our own 1400th Communication on September 22nd. There was a most enjoyable Ladies'
Night on November 18th, when we again brought our ladies for dining and dancing at Mayer's. It was the year that our own Rt. Wor.
Kris Kristensen was elected as Mayor of Yonkers. It was also, sad to say, the year that marked the death of Rt. Wor, Robert
Anderson, who, like Rt. Wor. Bro. MacSorley, had been the backbone of Nepperhan for so many years. He served as Secretary of
Nepperhan Lodge from 1920 to 1945 and seldom missed a meeting during those years. Our membership total at the end of the year
remained at 225. At the annual election, Robert L. Sutherland, a son of Wor. Leslie Sutherland, Master in 1915, was elected as
Master for 1950.
1950 — THE SEVENTY-EIGHTH YEAR
In 1950, there were several events which contributed to making this an interesting year. Our Brother John T. Windell received his 50
year Service Award, an occasion so few of us enjoy personally. Your editor was present that evening (serving as Chaplain), and it
was an immense thrill to watch Brother Windell enter the Lodge, escorted by two other previous recipients of the 50 year medal,
Brothers Herb Cutbill and Joe Holland. Over 150 years of Masonry was represented in those three Brothers. During the year, a
delegation of 20 Nepperhan Brothers visited Kings County Lodge in Brooklyn, an annual exchange of visits at that time. Another
ceremonious night was enjoyed when the Grand Master, Most Wor. Richard Rowlands, visited our Lodge and was made an
honorary member. It was a "standing room only" night with Masonic dignitaries from all over joining in the ceremonies. Still another
big night occurred on November 9th, when the Lodge had a "Harold Rose" night in honor of this hard-working Brother, a Past
Master (1930), who had done so much over the years for Nepperhan Lodge, Socially, we enjoyed a night out with our ladies at the
annual Ladies' Night on November 17th at Mayer's Restaurant. At the end of the year our membership stood at 223, and our net
worth was slightly over $7,000. At the annual meeting in December, Francis R. Noffko was elected to serve as Master in 1951.
1951 — THE SEVENTY-NINTH YEAR
During 1951, there was not much activity degree-wise, with four Brothers being raised to the Sublime Degree. Our Degree Team
was revived (again), and performed for Rising Star Lodge as well as our own Lodge. We also sent a large delegation and a huge
birthday cake to Rising Star's 125th anniversary meeting, A 60 year Palm was presented, in absentia, to Brother Clark Sloan, who
was too ill to attend. The big event of the year was on September 27th, when Rt. Wor. Walter Hausel received his apron and jewel,
emblematic of his appointment as Grand Steward of the Grand Lodge. A tremendous gathering paid honor to our distinguished
Brother, including District Deputy Adolph Jutkowitz and 23 Grand Lodge officers. In November, our Fellow-craft Club also sponsored
a testimonial dinner to Rt. Wor. Bro. Hausel. Membership at the end of the year totaled 223. At the annual meeting, Michael
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Cholowsky was elected to serve as Master in 1952. As an interesting bit of trivia, 1951 marked the first year that beer could be
served in the Temple refreshment halls.
1952 — THE EIGHTIETH YEAR
The year 1952 was a quiet year for Nepperhan, only four Brothers were raised to the Sublime Degree and they all took that Degree
the same night. Three sad events headlined the year; the first was the death of our Historian, Wor. Alfred Senftner, Master of
Nepperhan in 1924. He seldom missed a Lodge meeting, unless sick, and the many talks he gave on the history of Nepperhan
Lodge were extremely interesting. Unfortunately, your editor was unable to locate copies of his many reports, which would have
enhanced this present writing immensely. Also, during the year, Grand Lodge reported the passing of Rt. Worshipful George
Barnewall, Deputy Grand Master who, in a few short months was slated to be elected Grand Master. And, near the end of the year,
the Great Architect summoned another Past Master of Nepperhan, Wor. William Kent, Jr. Wor. Bro. Kent had, for several years,
acted as District Service Representative, and he always placed himself at the disposal of all Lodges and Masons in the District. Your
editor remembers him as a very serious, dedicated Mason. Effective the end of 1952, the dues were raised to $15 per year.
Qualifications for life membership were raised from 21 years to 30 years of continuous service. Membership was again down, being
220 at the end of the year. At the elections in December, Raymond Bell was elected as Master for 1953. Wm. G. Zirkler became
Senior Warden, and F. Donald Maxwell, your editor, was elected Junior Warden.
1953 — THE EIGHTY-FIRST YEAR
In 1953, the Lodge had a variety of activities. Brother Wilfred Fuller received his 50 year pin on the same evening that the Lodge
celebrated its 80th birthday. Also present that night were two other 50 year Brothers, George Allen and Herbert Cut-bill. That year
there were nine Brothers raised, including Bernard Marion, who received the Dedicated Service Award from Grand Lodge this year
(1978) and who is serving as Lodge Chaplain in this, our final year. Another Brother raised was Sandy Tepper, who owned a tavern
in Larkin Plaza. Many are the Nepperhan Brothers who learned their Masonic ritual in the privacy of Sandy's basement, and your
editor, who delivered the Middle Chamber Lecture in Lodge on five separate occasions, learned and practiced most of it in that
same basement. Also, more than one Fellowcraft Dinner was held in the dining room of that tavern. At one Third Degree, the Mayor
of Yonkers, our own Rt. Wor. Kristen Kristensen, took the part of King Solomon, and your editor worked with him as Hiram, King of
Tyre. The Lodge made its annual visit to Kings County Lodge and, on another occasion, the young men of DeMolay portrayed one
of their Degrees in our Lodge. On April 23rd, at a Second Degree, all chairs were filled by employees of Otis Elevator Company.
Richard (Bud) Flower was one of the Brothers entering the Lodge that year, and your editor had the pleasure of occupying the East
during his Entered Apprentice Degree. The Lodge was saddened by the death of Bro. Clark Sloan, 62 years a member of
Nepperhan Lodge. Needless to say, he was the oldest member of the Lodge at that time, both in years of service and in age.
Membership at the end of the year had risen to 228. At the annual election, Wm. G. Zirkler was elected as Master for 1954, and the
editor-to-be of this history was elected Senior Warden. Raymond Dykes became Junior Warden.
1954 — THE EIGHTY-SECOND YEAR
In 1954, the District Deputy, Rt. Wor. Douglas Rolfe, initiated the idea of a Traveling Gavel for the District. It was a different concept
than the one currently in practice to the extent that the idea was to keep the gavel moving as quickly and as often as possible. The
Lodge which had it in its possession was supposed to travel to another Lodge, confer a Degree (or simply pay a visit), and leave the
gavel for the second Lodge to get rid of it. Since Nepperhan was the first official D. D. visit in 1954, they were given the gavel by Rt.
Wor. Bro. Rolfe. Within a short while, we arranged to do the first section of the First Degree in Courtland Lodge in Peekskill and,
upon completion, left the gavel with them. Our own records do not show what happened to it from that time on. During the year, we
also sent a delegation to Thistle Lodge to help honor Rt. Wor. Bro. Roy MacMurchy on the occasion of his completion of 25 years as
Lodge Chaplain. At the time of this writing, 1978, Rt. Wor. MacMurchy was still going strong as Chaplain. Socially, our Fellowcraft
Club enjoyed a bock beer party at Sandy's Tavern. Late in the year, Brother Fred Hubbell, a life member who, with his wife, had
resided at the Masonic Home in Utica for several years, passed away. He was a member of Nepperhan Lodge for 49 years. During
the year, 13 Brothers received the Sublime Degree, and our membership at year end totaled 230. At the elections in December,
your ever-so-wordy historian, F. Donald Maxwell, was elected Master for 1955. Raymond Dykes became Senior Warden and James
O. H. Carroll was elected Junior Warden.
1955 — THE EIGHTY-THIRD YEAR
The year 1955 was a busy year for Nepperhan, both in and out of our Lodge Room. In March, we celebrated our 1500th
Communication with a Roll Call Night. There were present 83 Nepperhan Brothers, including 18 life members and four 50 year
medalists. The Master gave a brief history of the Lodge (see, I was doing it even then), and read a poem he had composed for the
occasion. In April, we had the presentation of a 60 year Palm to Bro. Edward Sutherland. To make the evening more interesting,
your Master had requested several of his 1955 Master colleagues to bring some of their own 50 year medalists, and a total of ten
were welcomed by the Master. Including the guest of honor, those 11 Brothers represented close to 600 years of Masonry, a rather
startling figure. Another Brother, George Curran, was supposed to receive a 60 year Palm but was unable to be present. It was
presented to him at his home. The Lodge was grieved to learn of the death of Bro. George Allan, 58 years a member of Nepperhan
Lodge, and an active member for most of those years. Our only honorary member, Most Wor. Richard Rowlands, Past Grand
Master, also died during the year. Our Treasurer, Rt. Wor. Walter M. Hausel, decided to retire and move to his home upstate. A
farewell party was held for him. Wor. Wm. G. Zirkler was elected to fill his unexpired term. Our Line Officers travelled upstairs and
conferred the first section of the Fellowcraft Degree at Hawthorne Lodge. Also, during the year, your Master joined with the other
1955 Masters in putting on degrees in White Plains and in Dunwoodie Lodge. A supper dance at the Amackassin Club was enjoyed
by the members and their ladies. Membership went down to 229 Brothers at the end of the year. At the annual meeting in
December, Raymond Dykes was elected Worshipful Master for 1956. James Carroll was made Senior Warden. Edward J. Goldner
was elected Junior Warden.
19 5 6 — THE EIGHTY-FOURTH YEAR
Early in the year 1956, our organist, Bro. Alex, Cunningham passed away. He was a member of Thistle Lodge, and was a frequent
vocal soloist as well as playing the organ. Only four new Brothers were raised during the year, one of whom was Anton Andree, who
went on to become Nepperhan's Master in 1962, became Lodge Secretary upon the death of Rt. Wor. Bro. Leon Botting, and
received a Grand Lodge Commission as Grand Director of Ceremonies in 1976. At the time of this writing, Rt. Wor. Bro. Andree is
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still serving faithfully as Lodge Secretary. The Lodge enjoyed the presentation of the Fellowcraft Degree by Terrace Chapter of
Royal Arch Masons and, on another night, the first section of the Sublime Degree by a team from Otis Elevator Company. The
Drama was portrayed by our own Degree Team in their usual proficient manner. At the first meeting in September, a reception was
tendered to Wor. Bro. Donald Maxwell, newly appointed Assistant Grand Lecturer for the District. The Lodge Room was filled to
capacity, and the festivities included songs by the 1955 Masters, the colleagues of Wor. Bro. Maxwell. In December, the Lodge
presented Bro. Herbert Cutbill with his 60 year Palm. Membership at the end of the year was 228. The annual elections resulted in
the election of James 0. H. Carroll as Master for 1957. Warren McKenzie became Senior Warden and Wm. G. Floyd was elected
Junior Warden.
1957 — THE EIGHTY-FIFTH YEAR
In 1957 we marked the death of another old-timer, Brother Sam Thompson, a Nepperhan member for 49 years. Early in the year,
we were honored with the presence of Rt. Wor. Howard Potts, Grand Lecturer, who selected Nepperhan Lodge for his annual
convention in the lower half of the District. The big night of the year was the reception to our own Rt. Wor. William G. Zirkler, newly
appointed District Deputy of the First West-chester-Putnam District. The Lodge Room was packed as our Brother was presented
with his commission, his jewel and his apron, the latter being conferred by the Mayor of Yonkers, our own Rt. Wor. Kristen
Kristensen. Interestingly enough, the jewel was presented by a former Yonkers Mayor, and a Past Master of Nepperhan, Wor. Bro.
Alfred Watson. In the fall, announcement came that Wor. Donald Maxwell had been re-appointed as Assistant Grand Lecturer.
Lodge membership showed a net increase, being 230 at year end.
Another two old-timers left our midst at the end of the year, Bro. Edward Sutherland, 62 years a Mason, and Bro. John Windell, a 57
year member of the Lodge. At the elections in December, Warren McKenzie was elected Master for 1958. Harold Sorensen and
Sidney Pound were elected Senior and Junior Wardens respectively.
1958 — THE EIGHTY-SIXTH YEAR
During the first half of the year, with our own Rt. Wor. Bill Zirkler as District Deputy, we were busy following our distinguished
Brother around the District. At his homecoming on April 24th, the Lodge Room was jammed to capacity, an indication of how
popular Rt. Wor. Bro. Zirkler was.
Even the Mayor of Yonkers, Rt. Wor. Kristen Kristensen, took time out from his civic duties to be present and give the D. D. jewel to
Rt. Wor. Zirkler. A large group from the Lodge also attended the Testimonial Dinner on May 9th. On June 12th, celebrating our 85th
anniversary, we enjoyed a night of entertainment with our ladies, following the business meeting. Some of us attended Dunwoodie's
50th anniversary meeting in the fall. In December, we welcomed still another 60 year Mason, Bro. Joseph Holland, a member who
was an active member through most of those 60 years. He was escorted into the Lodge Room by another 60 year Mason, Bro.
Herbert Cutbill. The presentation was by Rt. Wor. Robert Sasso, District Deputy. Membership at year end totaled 237 and, at the
annual meeting, Harold Sorensen was elected Master for 1959. Sidney Pound became Senior Warden and Alex. McKendrick was
elected Junior Warden.
1959 — THE EIGHTY-SEVENTH YEAR
The year 1959 had relatively little activity, with seven Brothers being raised to the Sublime Degree.
We also had an affiliation, Brother Malcolm Barclay, who also took over as Tiler of the Lodge.
Brother Malcolm was the father of Brother James Barclay, our present Tiler and one of the stalwarts of the Lodge. One of the
Brothers raised was George Ampagoomian, who went on to become elected Master three times, and is well known and respected
throughout the District. The Lodge had the pleasure of hosting both the DeMolay young men and the Triangle young women during
the year. On June 11th, we had a friendly visit from Rt. Wor. Walter Hausel, our former Treasurer, who had moved upstate. Wor.
Warren McKenzie, Past Master (1958) presented the Lodge with five sets of candidates Squares and Compasses. At one of our
Third Degrees, we had the pleasure of watching the Fellowcraft Team from Fernbrook Lodge in action. Financially, the Lodge was
sound, with over $12,000 in the bank. Our membership dropped to 231, largely because of five deaths and eight unaffiliations. At
the annual meeting in December, Sidney Pound was elected to serve as Master in 1960.
I960 — THE EIGHTY-EIGHTH YEAR
In March of 1960, the annual Inter-District D. D. meeting was held at Nepperhan Lodge, and the outpouring of Brothers from both
the First and Second Districts was indeed heartwarming. In May, our well-beloved and very active Brother, Hugo Wegener, received
his 50 year Service Award.
This was a happy occasion, and we were therefore dismayed a week later to hear of the death of Brother Joe Holland, 62 years a
member of Nepperhan Lodge. Another sad occasion was the passing away in June of our junior Past Master, Wor. Harold
Sorensen. They say bad news often comes in lots of threes, and it was certainly true here when Wor. Alfred Watson passed away in
September. He was a former Mayor of Yonkers, and had been President of our Past Masters for many years. On the happier side,
our Nepperhan "B" bowling team won the championship of the Lower District Bowling League. We also had a very welcome visit of
Wor. James Case from Florida. Wor. Brother Case is, at the time of this writing, our senior Past Master. And we certainly were
proud when our Marshal, Bro. Clyde Hartley, gave the Middle Chamber Lecture in his first year in the officers' line. That year also
marked the beginnings of Galaxy Lodge in our District. Our membership at year end was down to 228 and, at the annual elections,
Alex. McKendrick was chosen as Master for 1961.
1961 — THE EIGHTY-NINTH YEAR
At the first meeting of 1961, the Worshipful Master congratulated Wor. F. D. Maxwell on his election as President of the District
Association. Also in January, we learned of the death of Rt. Wor. Walter M. Hausel, formerly Lodge Treasurer, and a member of
Nepperhan for 43 years.
Other deaths during the year were George Curran, our oldest living member at age 92 (66 years a Mason), Hugo Wegener (51
years a Mason), and Wor. Raymond Case (Master in 1932). During the year, a Nepperhan delegation travelled to Spring Lake, N. J.
to visit Wor. Charles Zirkler, Master of Spring Lake Lodge, and a dual member of our own Lodge. Also in that year, Wor. Bro.
Warren McKenzie presented a new American flag to Nepperhan Lodge. Bro. Spencer Anderson received his 50 year pin and, ten
years later, was there to receive his 60 year Palm. Many of us attended the institution of Galaxy Lodge and the 1000th
Communication of Dunwoodie Lodge.
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Brother Richard Stowbridge, who was later to become Master, conferred a First Degree when he was only Senior Deacon. Wor.
Burt Bourne was presented the Bowling Sportsmanship Award by the Bowling League. And, to climax the year, a reception was held
for your blushing editor, F. Donald Maxwell, when he received his Commission as Grand Representative of Missouri. It was a gala
occasion with a jammed Lodge Room, including 23 Rt. Worshipfuls and 16 of the 1955 Masters (my year) who favored (?) Rt. Wor.
Brother Maxwell with some plagiarized songs. The Mayor of Yonkers, Rt. Wor. Kristen Kristensen, presented the apron. At the end
of the year, our membership had dropped to 216, largely because of 11 deaths and six unaffiliations. At the annual meeting in
December, Anton Andree .(who himself would wear the purple) was elected Master for the year 1962.
1962 —THE NINTIETH YEAR
Early in 1962, we were favored by the presentation of "The Rusty Mason" by a delegation from Thistle Lodge. This is always an
enjoyable presentation, and was always doubly so when Wor. Francis Frew of Thistle Lodge played a part, as he did that night.
Unfortunately for Thistle Lodge, and for all Masonry, Wor. Bro. Frew passed away in the latter part of the year. The Lodge had
another "first" when Brother Bill Newby stepped up from a Master of Ceremonies' chair to confer a First Degree in very proficient
fashion. The Lodge lost another old-timer with the death of Bro. Fred Hosfelt, 42 years a member of the Lodge. Our Nepperhan "B"
team (Burt Bourne, Captain) again won the championship of the Masonic Bowling League. Many of us attended the 50th
anniversary of Thistle Lodge, at which the Grand Master was principal speaker. Before the year was over, the Past Masters again
put on a Degree, with Rt. Wor. Donald Maxwell occupying the East. Once again, deaths and unaffiliations were heavy and at year
end, the membership was down to 211. At the annual meeting, Clyde Hartley was elected Master for 1963.
1963 —THE NINETY-FIRST YEAR
In 1963, there was only one night of degree work, but the Lodge was kept busy with many programs set up by the Master. Bro.
Rufus Cushman, a resident of the Masonic Home in Utica, received his 50 year pin from the Master, who made the trip up there to
make the presentation.
One night was set aside as a testimonial to our Secretary, Wor. Leon Botting, and the attendance was gratifying. On May 23rd, the
90th birthday of the Lodge was celebrated. Seventeen Past Masters were present, as well as all four living Right Worshipfuls from
our Lodge. Many stories were told about the "old days", and Rt. Wor. Donald Maxwell read a poem dedicated to the Lodge.
In April, our Nepperhan "B" bowling team again won the League championship (three years out of four), and won permanent
possession of the District Association Cup. There was a Life Members Night, at which 25 life members were welcomed, some of
them for the first time in years. On November 16th, we enjoyed dinner, entertainment, and dancing with our ladies at the Parkway
Casino. During the year we lost another of our old-timers, Bro. Edward Lefurgy, a Nepperhan member for 49 years. At year end, our
membership had dwindled to 207, but we were financially sound with total net worth of $12,600. At the annual elections, Richard
Stowbridge was elected Master for 1964.
1964 — THE NINETY-SECOND YEAR
The year 1964 was a quiet year, with little degree work and little activity. It was the year of the World's Fair, and many Brothers
availed themselves of the opportunity to go there and visit the Masonic Center. The Lodge sold several hundred tickets to the Fair,
Grand Lodge benefiting from each ticket sold. One session of Grand Lodge was held there, and your editor, in his capacity as Grand
Representative, was privileged to sit on the dais on that occasion. During the year, we attended Hawthorne Lodge in a body to
celebrate their 40th anniversary. In October a very enjoyable Ladies' Night was held at the Parkway Casino, with dinner, dancing
and entertainment.
One sad point of the year was the death of Wor. Bro. Harold Rose, Master in 1930, and a member of the Lodge for 41 years. Our
older Brothers will recall the fun we had going to Wor. Bro. Rose's house on the day of the annual Lodge picnic, and washing the
glasses and collecting paraphernalia for the outing, Many of our Fellowcraft Club meetings were held in his house, also, with the
inevitable keg of beer. In the latter part of the year, the Lodge welcomed a large delegation from Otis Elevator on the occasion of the
conferral of the Sublime Degree on two Otis employees, Brothers Wallace Ruiz and Ed Pattison. At year's end, our membership had
gone down to 196. At the annual elections, George Ampagoomian was elected to serve as Master in 1965.
1965 — THE NINETY-THIRD YEAR
In 1965, the Triangle young ladies visited Nepperhan and put on one of their Degrees. Our Brother Khoona Shomon was installed
as Eminent Commander of the Knights Templar. Wor. George Nugent, who had been Master in 1921, received his 50 year pin. We
lost a number of our old-timers during the year, including Wor. Frank Morrissey (39 years), Robert Light (48 years), Arthur Schlaf (49
years), Howard Sherwood (42 years), and our oldest Brother in terms of service, Bro. Herb Cutbill, 69 years a Nepperhan member.
Your editor was present when Bro. Herb received both his 50 and 60 year awards. A family picnic was held in June at Tibbett's
Brook Park, and enjoyed by the young and old alike. A delegation from our Lodge attended the 100th anniversary on September
11th of Diamond Lodge. And a very enjoyable Ladies' Night was enjoyed on October 28th. Only two Brothers were raised during the
year and, because of nine deaths our membership sank to 187. Our funds remained stable at $12,420. At the annual elections,
Alex. Mellor-Lumb was chosen as Master for 1966.
1966 — THE NINETY-FOURTH YEAR
The 1966 installation had an interesting sidelight in the presence of the 1966 Masters from other Lodges in the District. Included in
that group were Wor. Raymond Staib of Hastings Lodge and Wor. Hans Freyer of Yorktown Lodge, both of whom were originally
raised in Nepperhan Lodge and later transferred to the Lodges mentioned. In March, Brother Ed Cole gave us an interesting
pictorial talk on Africa, from where he had recently returned. In May, the DeMolay young men put on a Degree for us. We lost two
more of our old-timers in the deaths of Robert Turner and Fred Hebach, both Nepperhan members for 47 years. The By-Laws were
again amended, increasing the dues from $17 to $19 per year. In October, we had a gala Ladies' Night at the Coach and Four,
including some Nepperhan hula dancers. Our membership at the end of the year was 182. Bro. W. Burton Bourne was elected
Master for 1967.
1967 — THE NINETY-FIFTH YEAR
In 1967, we had no candidates and no degree work, other than a "dry run" by the Past Masters on the First Degree. At the beginning
of the year, Wor. Bro. Anton Andree was congratulated on being elected as President of the District Association, the third member to
be so honored. On April 20th we had a "Ray Bell Night" in honor of our Past Master (1953) who had done so much for the Lodge
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over the years. We also had a visit from Wor. George Nugent, our oldest living Past Master (at the time) who was in town from
California on a visit. At another meeting, the Triangle young ladies put on one of their Degrees in their usual lovely style. Death once
again took its toll in the persons of C. A. Bennett (41 years), Bill Gadsby (47 years), Ernie Platt (47 years), Malcolm Barclay (our
Tiler for many years and father of Bro. James Barclay) and Harold Floyd, one of our most active members over the years. In the fall,
we again enjoyed a Ladies' Night at the Coach and Four. With no new members, our membership at year end had dropped to 174.
At the annual elections, Edwin Zuraw was elected Master for 1968.
1968 — THE NINETY-SIXTH YEAR
The year 1968 was again devoid of candidates and degree work. It was the year when the Nepperhan "A" bowling team won the
Masonic League championship. The District Deputy Exchange Visit was held in our Lodge with a tremendous turnout from both
Districts. The Lodge Ladies' Night was held at the Dunwoodie Country Club. The biggest night of the year was the reception for Wor.
Leon Botting, at which he received his Grand Lodge Commission as Grand Swordbearer. Rt. Wor. Bro. Botting thus won an
enviable distinction; he became one of the very few who held Grand office in both the Masons and the Eastern Star (he had been
District Grand Lecturer of the Star previously). Delegations included an outstanding group of 21 Past Grand Lodge officers and 20
Past Masters of our own Lodge. There was also a delegation of Lodge Secretaries. Rt. Wor. John Flockhart, District Deputy, was
the principal speaker. During the year, we again lost by death several of our old-timers, including Herman Eggers (43 years), Wm.
Sussman (45 years), Sidney Medina (52 years), as well as Wor. John Hensey, who had been our Master in 1935. Membership
dropped to 168 Brothers. At the annual elections in December, Andrew Robertson was elected Master for 1969.
1969 — THE NINETY-SEVENTH YEAR
In 1969, Nepperhan enjoyed the first degree work we had experienced in several years. Three Brothers were raised to the Sublime
Degree, including two future Masters, Leslie Read and Robert Tauber. We also had a 50 Year Night when three Brothers, Rt. Wor.
Leon Botting and Brothers Arthur Pearsall and Norman Mackay were present to receive their 50 year Service Awards. One of our
Brothers, Charles Zirkler, was appointed a District Deputy in New Jersey. He was a dual member in Spring Lake Lodge, where he
was (and is) a Past Master. During the year, we again found it necessary to raise the dues, this time to $22 per year. One of our
meetings was dedicated to Wor. Ray Bell, who was leaving to live in Florida. On the sad side, death claimed five Brothers, including
Herb Pike (37 years), Harry Watson (39 years) and Gus Schneider (43 years). Membership went down to 158. At the annual
elections, Simeon Malutich was elected Master for 1970.
1970 — THE NINETY-EIGHTH YEAR
In 1970, two of our Past Masters, Rt. Wor. Wm. F. Grimm (1927) and Wor. Charles McConnell (1947) received their 50 year pins at
a meeting set aside in their honor. Congratulations were extended to our own Bro. Alex. Mellor-Lumb on his election as Eminent
Commander of the Knights Templar. The Nepperhan "A" bowling team again won the District Bowling League title. Our hearts were
saddened by the deaths of five Brothers, Otto Stahl (40 years), Wm. Shrive (47 years), Walter Donaldson (43 years), Wor. Sidney
Pound (Master in 1960), and Wor. Ray Bell (Master in 1953). Your editor had the pleasure of serving as Junior Warden for Wor. Bro.
Bell in 1953, and can only say that seldom was there a more dedicated Mason. At year end, membership totaled 144. George
Riggin was elected Master for 1971.
1971 — THE NINETY-NINTH YEAR
Again in 1971, there were no candidates, but the Lodge found itself busy conferring 50 year and 60 year awards. Brother Spencer
Anderson came down from Connecticut to receive his 60 year Palm.
On the same night, Bro. Ronald Vanderwende received his 50 year pin. Also, Brothers Archibald Wiley and Wm. Schott were
presented their 50 year pins in Florida. One of the biggest nights ever in Nepperhan Lodge was the night 50 year awards were
presented to Rt. Wor. Kristen Kristensen and Wor. James Thomson. Every Lodge in the District was well represented, and the list of
Worshipfuls and Right Worshipfuls took several pages in the minute book. The most astounding statistic was the number of 50 year
members present — no less than 23 of them, including four from Nepperhan, three from Rising Star, five from Thistle, three from
Bryn Mawr, two from Dunwoodie, two from Peary, two from Hawthorne, and one each from Diamond and Phillipstown.
All five living Right Worshipfuls from Nepperhan were present. Your editor had the privilege of occupying the East during the
ceremonies, and it was truly a thrill. Death also laid a heavy hand on us during the year, with the passing of Dave Slater (44 years),
Bill Hendry (43 years), Emil Meske (50 years), Rufus Cushman (58 years a Mason and 95 years old), and Wor. Bro. Wm. Schwartz,
Master in 1926, who had only received his 50 year pin three weeks before his death.
Our Nepperhan "A" bowling team again won first place and retired the District Trophy, under the able leadership of Captain Anton
Andree. Membership at the end of the year was down to 136.
George Ampagoomian, who had been Master in 1965, was elected to serve as Master in 1972.
1972 — THE ONE HUNDREDTH YEAR
In 1972, we again had no candidates and no degree work. The annual Inter-District D. D. meeting was held this year in Nepperhan
Lodge with an attendance of 173 Brothers, of whom 96 were from the First District. During the year, we donated money and clothing
for the victims of the hurricane "Agnes". The Nepperhan "A" team again won the bowling championship. Our 1800th Communication
was observed on October 26th. The By-Laws were amended to set the Lodge dues at $25 per annum. Towards the end of the year,
the Lodge received a terrible blow with the death, in rapid succession, of our Treasurer, Rt. Wor. Wm. Zirkler, and our Secretary, Rt.
Wor. Leon E. Botting. Rt. Wor. Zirkler was raised in 1947, was Nepperhan Master in 1954, was appointed District Deputy in 1957
and died in October, 1972. Rt. Wor. Bro. Botting was raised in 1918, affiliated with Nepperhan in 1926, was Nepperhan Master in
1934 and 1943, was appointed Grand Swordbearer in 1968, and died in November, 1972. We also marked the passing of Wor.
George Grimm, Master in 1937. At the end of the year, membership totaled 130. With the death of Rt. Wor Brothers Zirkler and
Botting, Wor. Anton was elected Secretary, and Wor. W. Burton Bourne was elected Treasurer. Wor. George Ampagoomian was reelected
to again serve as Master in 1973.
1973 — THE ONE HUNDRED AND FIRST YEAR
At the beginning of 1973, our newly-installed Master, George Ampagoomian, suffered a heart attack and his duties were assumed
by Wor. Sam Malutich, who had previously been Master in 1970. This was our 100th anniversary year, and a busy one. The 100th
anniversary meeting was held on March 22nd and was preceded by a dinner in the Temple. At the meeting itself, Rt. Wor. Donald
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Maxwell presided in the East and gave an interesting history of the Lodge, particularly with relation to the early years. The principal
speaker was the Grand Master, Most Wor. Lloyd S. Cochrane, who congratulated the Lodge and spoke in his usual inspirational
style. Our District Deputy, Rt. Wor. Donald Klein, also spoke, and other speakers were Rt. Wor. Charles Zirkler, a dual member of
our Lodge, who brought the greetings of the Grand Lodge of New Jersey, and a Past Grand Master of New Jersey, Most Worshipful
August Ulrich, who brought news of a bequest to Nepperhan Lodge left by Rt. Wor. Bro. William Zirkler in his last will and testament.
Later in the year, we also had a dinner with our ladies in Seven Pines Restaurant in Mamaroneck. The DeMolay boys were invited
to one of our meetings and put on their "Mothers" Degree. We had three candidates for membership (first in several years) and all
Three Degrees were conferred upon them. At the Third Degree, the first section was conferred by the 1970 Masters of the District,
and the second section (Drama) was by the Police Square Club of New York City. The District Association held its first Family
Picnic, replacing the stag picnics of former years, and it was an outstanding success. During the year, a 50 year Service Award was
presented to Bro. Philip Schlobohm. One of our meetings was set aside for a talk by Rt. Wor. Arthur Williamson, of Thistle Lodge, to
our newly-raised Master Masons. It seems very few years go by without the deaths of old-timers and this year was no exception.
Passed on to the Great Architect were Wor. George Nugent, Master in 1921 and a Nepperhan member for 59 years; Bro. Charles
Anderson, a member for 48 years; Bro. Gus Massas, a member for 46 years; and Wor. Bro. Henry Storms, Master in 1936, and a
member for 48 years. Membership at year's end was 123. Robert Tauber was elected Master for 1974.
1974 — THE ONE HUNDRED AND SECOND YEAR
The year 1974 was an active year, with Wor. Robert Tauber providing some sort of activity at virtually every meeting. Three new
candidates worked their way through the Three Degrees, with the Master Mason Degree portrayed by Pelham Lodge in interesting
fashion. In the line of Civic Participation, Wor. Robert Tauber arranged a city-wide Bicycle Inspection Day at the Cross-County
Shopping Center, and about 75 young people brought their bikes for that inspection. Rt. Wor. Charles J. F. Keil attended one
meeting and gave a talk on Paul Revere in connection with the Bi-Centennial Celebration. The Lodge decided to present 25 year
pins (this had not previously been a custom in Nepperhan), and this was done at one meeting, preceded by a spaghetti dinner.
Congratulations were sent to Wor. James Case and his wife on their 50th wedding anniversary. Wor. Bro. Jim was Master back in
1938. Fifty year pins were presented to Brothers R. C. Chipman, George Milton, John Barmore and George Jackson. And, once
again, the Lodge suffered a severe blow in the deaths of members. Wor. Robert Sutherland, Master .in 1950 (and the one who first
put your editor in the officers' line), passed away in Delaware. And, in quick succession, we lost two more Rt. Worshipfuls in the
deaths of Kris Kristensen and Bill Grimm. Rt. Wor. Bro. Kris was raised in 1921, was Master in 1925, was appointed District Deputy
in 1928, and received his 50 year pin in 1971. Rt. Wor. Bill Grimm was raised in 1920, was Master in 1927, was appointed Grand
Representative in 1948, and received his 50 year pin in 1970. Both Brothers were tremendously active all during their Masonic
careers. Thus, in the space of two years, Nepperhan lost four Right Worshipfuls. At the end of the year, membership was down to
115. Khoona Shomon was elected Master for 1975.
1975 — THE ONE HUNDRED AND THIRD YEAR
The year 1975 saw two more Brothers go through the degrees and become members – probably the last members to join
Nepperhan Lodge before the merger. At the Third Degree, the Thistle Fellowcraft Team portrayed the Drama in their matchless
style. In February, Rt. Wor. Donald Klein gave us a talk on George Washington, the Man and Mason. A reception was held in
Ossining in April for Rt. Wor. Eugene Barton, Grand Treasurer of the Grand Lodge. Rt. Wor. Barton, a member of Collabergh Lodge,
was District Deputy of our District in 1954-5, when your editor was Master of Nepperhan for the first time. The Lodge received a
plaque from Grand Lodge commending Wor. Robert Tauber and Nepperhan Lodge for the Bicylce Inspection Program. Fifty year
Service Awards were presented to Brothers Andrew Hoerup and Clarence Nelson. Again, death took from us some of our oldtimers,
notably Bro. Lee S. Richards, 69 years a Mason; Wor. Bro. James Thomson, 54 years a Mason and Master in 1933; and
Bro. Wm. Schott, 56 years a Mason. The Lodge, as a delegation, visited Hawthorne Lodge on their 50th anniversary celebration.
Membership at year end was 103, Leslie Read was elected to serve as Master in 1976.
1976 — THE ONE HUNDRED AND FOURTH YEAR
In 1976, not much activity was evident in the Lodge, with attendance seldom more than an operating minimum. In the spring, our
Nepperhan "A" bowling team again won the League championship under the direction of our long-time Captain, Anton Andree. But
the big news of the year, of course, was the appointment of Brother Andree as Grand Director of Ceremonies of the Grand Lodge of
New York. Rt. Wor. Bro. Andree was raised in 1956, was Master in 1962, was President of the District Association in 1966, and
became our Secretary on the death of Rt. Wor. Leon E. Botting. During his year as Staff Officer, Rt. Wor. Bro. Andree conducted
seminars for Lodge officers throughout the District, and was truly a "right hand" to our District Deputy, Rt. Wor. Donald Urquhart,
throughout his term of office. The reception for Rt. Wor. Anton was a full-house affair, with representatives from most Lodges in the
District. Many of us also attended the reception for Rt. Wor. Bro. Urquhart at Thistle Lodge. We learned of the deaths of two more of
our old-timers, Ronald Vanderwende (55 years) and Clarence Bleakley (48 years). Membership at the end of the year was down to
101. At the annual elections, Wor. Robert Tauber was elected to serve his second term as Master in 1977.
1977 — THE ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTH YEAR
In 1977 there was no degree work, but several interesting meetings were enjoyed. Rt. Wor. Robert Sasso gave us a talk on George
Washington. The DeMolay boys put on their "Mothers" Degree. Three Brothers received their 50 year pins, Brothers John Betchley,
Elias Bistany, and Alvin (Bud) Shuster. The latter two came to Lodge and received their pins personally. Rt. Wor. Donald Maxwell
read original poems dedicated to them, as he had at so many similar occasions in the past. In April, we had a home-coming night for
Rt. Wor. Anton Andree, and once again the fullhouse sign was up. Many were the tributes paid to "Andy" that night. Many of us also
attended the Thistle Lodge homecoming for Rt. Wor. Donald Urquhart. At our June meeting, after a short business session, we and
our wives went to Wor. Bob Tauber's house for a very enjoyable social evening. Our organist for many years, Bro. Fred Gee was
killed in an auto accident late in the year. And, before year end, a committee of Nepperhan Lodge Past Masters met with a
committee from Thistle Lodge and started merger proceedings. Our membership at the end of the year was 95. For our final year,
Rt. Wor. Donald Maxwell was elected to serve as 1978 Master.
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1978 — THE ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTH AND FINAL YEAR
So, the history of Nepperhan Lodge No. 736 comes to its final year, 1978.
Rt. Wor. Donald Maxwell was installed at the first meeting in January for his second term as Master. Wor. George Ampagoomian
and Wor. Andrew Robertson were installed as Senior and Junior Warden respectively. Rt. Wor. Anton Andree served as Installing
Master. At our first meeting in March, both Nepperhan and Thistle Lodges voted favorably for the merger. Meanwhile your Master
(and editor), who had first become interested in.the Lodge history back in 1955 when he had to prepare a presentation for our
1500th Communication, set for himself the task of putting such a fascinating history into book form for the interest of our Brothers,
and as a memo of Nepperhan Lodge.
Portions of this history were read at our February meetings. At our second meeting in March, we welcomed our District Deputy, Rt.
Wor. Theodore Sheehan, on the occasion of his official visit to Nepperhan Lodge. Yonkers Lodge No. 882 attended in a body
following their own meeting in the Upper Lodge Room, and there were also sizeable delegations from Dunwoodie Lodge, Hastings
Lodge and Thistle Lodge. A social hour was enjoyed after the meeting. At our meeting of April 13, we were again favored by the
presence of our District Deputy. At this meeting, he presented a Dedicated Service Award from Grand Lodge to our faithful Brother,
Bernard Marion. He also presented a 50 year pin to Wor. Bro. Albert Cooper, who brought a delegation from Jamaica Lodge to
witness the occasion. Wor. Bro. Cooper was Master of Jamaica Lodge in 1977, but he is also a dual member in Nepperhan Lodge
where he was raised in 1928. The Worshipful Master read original poems dedicated to each of these Brothers. To make the evening
more enjoyable, wives and friends had been invited, and we had a fine outpouring of the distaff side.
Our written history necessarily ends at this point in order that this epic (?) may be placed in the hands of our printer. At the time of
this writing, the Judge Advocate of Grand Lodge had approved the merger, and there remains the formality of approval by Grand
Lodge which is expected the early part of May. A tentative date of Saturday, June 10th has been set as a Merger Meeting,
representing the first meeting of the New Lodge. We salute Nepperhan Lodge No. 736, and bid her farewell.
INTERESTING FACTS (Sometimes known as "TRIVIA")
There have been a total of 787 members of Nepperhan Lodge since its inception.
Of the above number, eight were Charter Members, 87 were Affiliates, and the balance of 692 gained their membership by initiation.
The first Yonkers Mason killed in World War I was Brother Robert Glover, a member of Nepperhan Lodge.
Our peak membership year was 1929, when we had 329 members.
Our heaviest influx of members was in the year 1920 when we raised a total of 39 members. That year there were eleven special
communications.
In the ten year period, 1920 through 1929, we took in 214 new members — an average of over twenty per year.
Our oldest members, in terms of years of membership, were Brothers Lee Richards and HerbCutbill, each 69 years a Mason.
Over the years, we had 46 Fifty-Year Members.
As of the time of this writing, the total membership breaks down as follows: 353 died, 206 unaffiliated, 128 dimitted, 5 unaccounted
for, and 95 (bless them) are still alive.
Rt. Wor. Ralph E. Prime certainly must have enjoyed creating new lodges. He left Rising Star Lodge to become a Founder of
Nepperhan Lodge, and then left Nepperhan Lodge to become a Founder of Yonkheer Lodge.
The oldest Master was Wor. Khoona Shomon, who was 72 during his year as Master.
The youngest Master award goes to Wor. Philip Fitz and Wor. John Bray, each of whom was 27 years old when Master.
The Past Masters who lived the longest are still alive at the time of this writing; Wor. Jim Case and Wor. Charles McConnell are both
87 years -old and going strong. Wor. Alfred Watson was 85 years old when he passed away.
Rt. Wor. F. Donald Maxwell 1978
Historian
THE FINAL WORDS
And so we come to the closing of Nepperhan Lodge No. 736, Free and Accepted Masons. It leaves us with a heavy feeling of
sorrow, that is true. And yet there will always remain that feeling of pride and joy that we, you and I, all of us, were members of
Nepperhan Lodge, that we were a part of Nepperhan Lodge, that we were Nepperhan Lodge.
Yes, Nepperhan Lodge is gone, but our memories remain of our happy times, of our friendships, of our Brotherhood. Perhaps this
History may strengthen those memories, and recall to us those past glorious days that made Nepperhan Lodge such a vital part of
our lives and our community.
And now we turn, with great anticipation and hope, to our new Lodge, to Thistle Lodge No. 900, to a new group with the same ideals
and purpose — the Brotherhood of Man and the Fatherhood of God.
And so, we close the history of Nepperhan Lodge with these few words:
To thee, Oh Nepperhan we bow,
And bid a fond farewell.
And on thy name we’ll e’er bestow
The thanks that words can never tell.
Through a span of over one hundred years,
You held us all together.
You've brought us joy and calmed our fears,
Through fair and stormy weather.
Your Altar often was the place
We met our Brothers new,
Our memories will never erase,
We’ll e’er remember you.
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-----
Nepperhan Lodge, we say Goodbye,
As history claims your name.
But evermore as time goes by,
Our thoughts will be the same.
"I NOW DECLARE THE LODGE DULY CLOSED.
BROTHER JUNIOR DEACON, INFORM THE TILER,"
F. Donald Maxwell
Worshipful Master
MILLWARD, JR., JAMES. - Age, 29 years. Enrolled [99th NY Inf. Regiment] as major, Union Coast Guard, 28 May 1861, at New
York city, to serve three years; mustered in as 1Lt, Co, F, this regiment, 1 Jul 1861; transferred to Co. H, 21 Jan 1862; to Co. C, 30
Mar 1862; discharged, July 15, 1863, at Fort Monroe, VA; also borne as James E. Milwerd. Commissioned 1Lt, 17 Jan 1862, with
rank from same date, original.
-----
Ralph Earl Prime (1840-
PRIME, RALPH E. - Age 21 years. Enlisted [5th NY Inf. Regt.], 2 May 1861, at New York city; mustered in as Private, Co. G, 9 May
1861, to serve two years; promoted Sergeant, 14 Jun 1861; mustered in as 2Lt, Co. C, 6 Sep 1861; wounded at Gaines Mills, VA,
27 Jun 1862; mustered in as 1Lt, Co. B, 5 Jul 1862; Captain, 30 Sep 1862; discharged, 29 Oct 1S02, for promotion to Lt. Col., 6th
NY Heavy Artillery Volunteers; commissioned 2Lt, 25 Sep 1861, with rank from 6 Sep 1861, vice C. W. Torrey, resigned; 1Lt, 21 Jul
1862, with rank from 5 Jul 1862, vice E. G. Fowler, resigned; Captain, 29 Oct 1862, with rank from 22 Sep 1862, vice G, Carr,
promoted.
PRIME, RALPH E. - Age, 22 years. Enrolled [6th NY Artillery Regiment], 20 Jan 1863, at Yonkers; mustered in as lieutenantcolonel,
20 Jan 1863, to serve three years; resigned, 19 Mar 1863; prior service as Captain in 5th NY Volunteers; commissioned
lieutenant-colonel, 13 Jan 1S63, with rank from 9 Jan 1863, vice J . H. Kitching, mustered out.
-----
Leslie Sutherland
http://books.google.com/books?id=kX3XAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA366&lpg=PA366&dq=%22Leslie+sutherland%22+%22yonkers%22&so
urce=bl&ots=TUdXFLF7RG&sig=V6KdQkuCvdbUMwYcD5-zkmmrXQs&hl=en&ei=-
4jqTcbZNMX40gHcwvWqAQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=5&ved=0CDcQ6AEwBA#v=onepage&q=%22Leslie%20sut
herland%22%20%22yonkers%22&f=false page 366.
IN his name, Leslie Sutherland combines the names of two ancient Scottish clans, the
Leslies and the Sutherlands; and the old family Bible traces his immediate pedigree
for more than four hundred years. He was born in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, April
21, 1866, the fourth son of Joseph Sutherland, a native of Frampton, Quebec, and
Ann Fergusson, born in New York City. Of eight children, two brothers, Spencer
Kenneth and Edward Augustus, and a sister, Ann Amelia, wife of the Rev. Alfred
Duncombe, pastor of the Dutch Reformed Church, Long Branch, N. J., are living:
three brothers, Joseph William, George Irving and Alexander Gordon, and a sister,
Margaret Ellen, are deceased. He was educated in the public schools, Yon Iters, and
was graduated from the Science and Art Department of Cooper Institute, New York, in
1890. He was instructor in Architecture in the Yonkers High School until 1894,
although in the previous year he had opened an office as architect and also engaged
in general contracting. Before graduation he learned the bricklayer's trade and had
followed it in New York, Albany, Chicago, St. Paul and other cities.
For twenty years he was the dominant political leader of the city of Yonkers, and is its
foremost citizen. He was twice elected a member of the Board of Aldermen, and was
President of the Board, 1896-1897; and in the fall of 1897 elected mayor, and reelected
by an increased majority. From 1893-1901 he served as Clerk of the
Surrogate's Court; and in 1901 was elected County Clerk of Westchester County by a
majority of 1,500, and again in 1905 by a majority of 7,000. In 1897 he had formed a
political alliance with the Hon. William L. Ward, who that year became Republican
leader of Westchester County. In 1900 he was chosen as one of the delegates to the
Republican National Convention in Chicago. He was appointed receiver of the
Yonkers Railway system January 18, 1908, of which he is now VicePresident. He is active and personally popular in many social
and fraternal organizations. He is a member of the New York Burns Society, Order of Scottish Clans, Patriotic Order Sons of
America, Republican Club (New York), City Club (New York), Neperhan Lodge No. 706, F. & A. M., Terrace City Chapter, Royal
Arch Masons, Commandry Knights Templar No. 47, and Benevolent and Patriotic Order of Elks. He is a member of the Park Hill
Reformed Church.
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Leslie Sutherland is of the same friendly, genial disposition to-day as when as a boy he was selling newspapers in Getty Square, in
the city of which he was destined to be the chief executive. When he resigned as chairman of the Republican City Committee of
Yonkers, a banquet in his honour was attended by more than 3,000 friends and admirers. He was Chairman of the Building
Committee of the Yonkers Y. M. C. A., and raised $200,000 and built the present Y. M. C. A. Building; he was key man in raising for
St. Joseph's Hospital $125,000, and an equal amount for the Masonic Temple; and has always been keenly interested in the
Hollywood Inn Working Man's Club. He was one of the organizers and is a director of the Yonkers National Bank and of the
Neperhan Publishing Company, owners of the Yonkers Daily News, of which he is President. As mayor of the city, he created public
baths, extended the docks for the use of the poor, raised $50,000 for the Public Library; and he has made of the Yonkers Railway,
for many years in financial difficulties, a solvent, going concern. In the words of his pastor, Mr. Sutherland is a man of kindness and
genius for friendship, whose faith is sustained by trust in God which is exhibited in his daily life.
Mr. Sutherland married, December 10, 1901, Miss Matilda Karg, daughter of Kaspar and Mathilda Karg, of New York City. Their
children are: Lorna Matilda, born May 12, 1903; Robert Leslie, born July 14, 1904; Gladys Helen, bor n September 29, 1906; Leslie
Charles, bor n March 11, 1909; and Beverley, born May 29, 1916. Their home is 66 St. Andrew's Place, Yonkers.
http://www.yonkershistory.org/suther.html
Leslie Sutherland is among the most important of Yonkers' mayors. When he died April 6, 1945, the Herald Statesman published
this article.
Leslie Sutherland, former Mayor of Yonkers, died early today in his eightieth year at Manteo, North Carolina, where he made his
home for two and a half years. Acting City Manager Norman P. Henderson immediately ordered the flag at City Hall at half staff.
Sutherland's career was virtually unparalleled in its inclusive scope insofar as it involved public service, the professions and
business.
Elected to Many Offices - He was Alderman, President of the Common Council, Mayor, County Clerk and Surrogate's Court Chief
Clerk, School Trustee and President of the Board of Education, and he was chairman of Mayor Fogarty's committee on public relief.
He was a law clerk, an architect, a bricklayer, a school teacher; a bank president, general manager of the Yonkers Railroad
Company through its bankruptcy as receiver and then vice-president of the Third Avenue Railway System for many years until he
retired in 1942.
G.O.P. Leader 25 Years - He was Republican City Chairman for a quarter of a century and a lending party official in state and
national conventions. In World War I he led the County Home Defense Committee and raised millions in war loans. He led four Red
Cross drives and a Community Chest campaign.
Mr. Sutherland was thrown into jail as a boy and helped frame laws to make that practice illegal. He initiated many departures,
authoring an eight-hour day for building trades, and opened the first municipal bath in the United States.
He raised money for the YMCA the Masonic Temple, St. Joseph's Hospital, St. John's Riverside Hospital, Yonkers General Hospital,
Yonkers Lodge of Elks, and many other institutions. He was a member and director of the Surdna Foundation.
Death followed a second stroke in the last few weeks, which had been preceded nearly two years ago with an attack that left his
side paralyzed. For months he was more or less confined to his home in Manteo, moving about in a wheel chair.
Remained In South - He had gone to Manteo because of the milder climate, first settling there for the winter and then deciding to
remain there in retirement. From time to time he enjoyed visits there of Yonkers friends, most particularly those of his dear friend,
former Corporation Counsel Daniel J. Cashin.
With him at the time of death was Mrs. Sutherland, the former Matilda Karg of New York City, whom he married in l901 and also his
daughter Beverly, who lives in Manteo. Friends said they may remain in Manteo.
Leaves Wife, 5 Children - Besides these two, Mr. Sutherland is survived by two other daughters, Mrs. Thomas Cowell of Syracuse
and Manteo and Mrs. Edward DeForest Smith of Rye, and two sons, Robert Leslie Sutherland of this city, former candidate for
Common Council, and Private First Class Leslie Sutherland, now serving with the U.S.Army Engineers in Burma. There is also a
brother; Edward Sutherland of Yonkers, and there are five grandchildren.
Funeral services will be at Manteo, where Mr. Sutherland will be buried. Although arrangements have not been completed it is
expected that Robert Sutherland, Mrs. Smith and Mrs. Cowell will attend the services.
Mr. Sutherland relinquished his office with the Third Avenue and with its subsidiaries, including the Yonkers Railroad Company, in
November 1942, when he moved to the South.
Born In Canada - Although a member of a pioneer Yonkers family, Leslie Sutherland was born in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, on
April 21,1866. He loved to tell audiences humorously during his long political career that the only reason he could not aspire to be
president of the United States was that he was not born here.
His parents, the late Joseph and Ann Sutherland, moved to Canada shortly before he was born and lived there 12 years before
returning to Yonkers. Mr. Sutherland's first home here was on Jefferson Street.
The family later moved to Herriot Street where they resided for the next 30 years. Before moving to the South, Mr. Sutherland
resided with his wife at 66 St. Andrew's Place, "in the house on the hill by the side of the road", as the former mayor put it.
Educated In School Two - His mother was born on a little farm in what is now Van Cortlandt Park She had attended the old Lambs
School, the first public school in what was then the Village of Yonkers.
Mr. Sutherland attended School Two on Waverly Street, but his formal education was cut short early and he began work as an office
boy in a law office.
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Mr. Sutherland used to tell how he left school "under a cloud" as a child, because of a fist fight with the late Richard Edie Jr. with
whom he later was associated closely for many years on the Board of Education and in other community affairs. However; Mr.
Sutherland withdrew flora his post on the Board of Education in the second year of his second term, in 1931, when Mr. Edie was
elected board president.
Roamed Barefoot - During his boyhood days, Mr. Sutherland roamed barefoot about South Yonkers, which then was virtually an
open country dotted with farms. He went to work first for Dee and Turner; furniture dealers and next for the Eagle Pencil Company
on Dock Street. Later he was employed in the old Copcutt Silk Mill on Nepperhan Avenue.
Despite employment with other firms in his boyhood days, Mr. Sutherland always contended his first job was for Ellis and Sweeny,
lawyers, as an office boy. At fifteen he became a law clerk for the firm of R[alph]. E[arl]. and A.J. Prime.
A sudden turn came at eighteen when physicians told him his health was so poor he "could not live." Undaunted, he sought outdoor
employment and proceeded to learn the trade of bricklayer. Meantime he attended Cooper Union School of Science and Alt to study
architecture.
Proved Teacher Wrong - As a student there, he was told by an instructor he "never could hope to become an architect." Years
later he designed a home for that very instructor and came to teach architecture in the Yonkers public school system.
At a dinner years back at the old Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City; at which Mr. Sutherland sat with William Howard Taft and
former Supreme Court Justice Joseph Morschauser; the former Yonkers Mayor said: "I had a big part in this building, I laid brick on
it!" Mr. Morschauser then replied: "I was a cook here." Both men on the spot took out their union cards and showed them to Mr. Taft.
Thrown Into Jail - It was while he was a small boy that an incident occurred which he fondly recalled often. Plundering a farmer's
orchard, Mr. Sutherland was arrested for stealing apples and thrown into jail overnight, occupying the same cell as adult criminals.
He would recall proudly that the policeman who arrested him was head of the police force here when he became Mayor "and was
forced to resign," and then Mr. Sutherland would add, "And that small boy who was arrested for stealing apples went up to the state
legislature and got a bill put through to prevent people from putting children in jail with criminals."
Sponsored 8-Hour Day - The former mayor's first elective office was that of delegate to the Bricklayers and Masons International
Convention at Toronto, Canada. He introduced the eight-hour work day resolution in that convention, which established the eighthour
work day for all building trades in the United States and Canada.
Alderman at 27 - At twenty-seven he was elected to his first public office, that of alderman of the First Ward. Two years later he
was reelected to the Common Council, this time as alderman of the Fourth Ward. Mr. Sutherland was responsible, among his many
other accomplishments while in public service, for the eight-hour day on all public works projects.
He introduced a resolution for the first inland public bath in the United States and saw it established at the comer of Jefferson and
Vark Streets, In 1896 he became president of the Board of Aldermen which carried with it the responsibilities of acting mayor in the
absence of the city's chief executive.
Always Reelected - When he was elected mayor in 1897, the City of Yonkers had a population of 47,000 and when he left office
four years later it had 62,000 inhabitants.
In 1901 Mr. Sutherland was elected County Clerk of Westchester and was reelected in 1903. He was reelected to every public office
he ever held and was never defeated at the polls.
As mayor a wide range of public improvements were created through his efforts including Grant and Irving and Washington public
parks. He established a public weighing scale for which there was a great demand at the time and under his administration the
public dock at the foot of Main Street was enlarged crowned by the public pavilion. This improvement was dedicated by the then
Governor Benjamin B. Odell. Despite a wide variety of new municipal undertakings as mayor; a low tax budget was maintained by
Mr. Sutherland. When he left public office he was appointed receiver for the Yonkers Railroad Company.
Leader of Transit Firm - In 1912 he was elected vice-president and general manager of the Yonkers Railroad Company and in
1918, when the company became part of the Third Avenue Railway System, he was elected vice-president.
Mr. Sutherland was the leader of Republican forces in Yonkers for 25 years. He was one of the men who forced the nomination of
Theodore Roosevelt for the vice-presidency in 1900, witnessing his elevation to the Presidency six months later on the death of
President McKinley.
Mr. Sutherland was delegate to all national, state and county G.O.P. conventions for 25 years and was a potent force in the party.
He organized the Yonkers National Bank and Trust Company and served as its president for 10 years.
Boosted War Loans - During World War I, he was chairman of the Westchester County Home Defense Committee, which
organized 12 military units throughout the county. He was an active member of Yonkers executive committees of Liberty and victory
Loan campaigns in World War I. In those campaigns $15,000,000 was raised here for the war loans.
Mr. Sutherland was chairman of all four Red Cross drives which raised other millions during the First World War. He was key man in
a YMCA drive that raised $250,000 for the erection of the present "Y" building and was chairman of a committee that raised $75,000
by public subscription for the construction of the Masonic Temple on South Broadway.
Aided Three Hospitals - He also was one of the chief forces in a $100,000 campaign for a new wing for St. Joseph's Hospital and
again was in the fore in a successful campaign to raise $750,000 for St. John's Riverside Hospital. Mr. Sutherland also was active in
raising funds for the then Homeopathic Hospital and Maternity, now the Yonkers General Hospital.
Mr. Sutherland was a charter member of the Yonkers Ledge of Elks and was one of the four men who advanced the money to start
the construction of the Elks' Clubhouse on South Broadway, now the School Administration Building. At the outbreak of the
111

depression he was chairman of a Mayor's Committee which raised $219,000 for public relief He was a Community Chest campaign
chairman.
Director of Surdna - Mr. Sutherland was a member and director of the Surdna Foundation and Julia Dyckman Andrus Memorial
endowed and created by the late mayor and congressman, John F. Andrus.
While he was President of the Board of Education, Hawthorne and Longfellow Junior High Schools and Roosevelt High School were
erected. Putnam County named him president of its Planning Commission during the Twenties.
Mr. Sutherland was a member of nearly every fraternal and benevolent order in the city. He was a 32nd degree Mason and a past
master of Nepperhan Lodge of Masons.
He always visualized the City of Yonkers as a residential rather than industrial area, "It always will be a town of small-home owners
instead of a factory town," Mr. Sutherland often commented.
A great lover of nature, he would sit for hours and talk of his 600-acre farm near Carmel, where he would say, "are grapefruit plants
and lemon trees I raised from seed."
He and Mrs. Sutherland would motor to their farm each Friday tight for weekend stays.
On the eve of his seventy-third birthday, April 20, 1939, Mr. Sutherland was honored at a testimonial dinner at Ben Riley's
Arrowhead Inn when it was located in Riverdale. The dinner was held when he and Mrs. Sutherland returned from a two-week
ocean cruise. City Judge Martin J. Fay was chairman of that city-wide event.
Apawamis Lodge No. 800, Mamaroneck, New York
Warrant: ca 1892
Radium Lodge No. 844, Ossining, New York
Warrant: ca 1904
Collabergh Lodge No. 859, Croton-on-Hudson, New York
Warrant: ca 1908
24 May 1907 Lodge Constituted and Officers Installed.
Westchester Lodge No. 180, F&AM came to be part of Collabergh Lodge.
Collabergh-Radium Lodge No. 859, Croton-on-Hudson, New York
Warrant:
Lodge Website: http://www.collaberghradium.com/site/special/main.htm
Dunwoodie Lodge No. 863, Yonkers [Tuckahoe], New York
Warrant: 3 Jun 1908.
Lodge Website: http://www.dunwoodiemason.com/
Jonkheer Lodge No. 865, Yonkers, New York
Warrant: 6 May 1909
Surrendered: 1947.
Petition recommends as First Officers:
Gustav A. Cartensen Master
Samuel M. Hitchcock SW
Albert E. Lawrence JW
“and 12 others.”
http://books.google.com/books?id=OAsXAAAAIAAJ&pg=PA240&lpg=PA240&dq=%22Jonkheer+Lodge%22&source=bl&ots=WT05
304uDF&sig=SWFUL-C0jK67anhGpcFTGT_M5nE&hl=en&ei=c-
HuTZnVNIKCgAffj9CUDw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=6&ved=0CDIQ6AEwBQ#v=onepage&q=%22Jonkheer%20Lod
ge%22&f=false page 240.
JAMES GAGE BEEMER was born in Hamilton, Ontario, January 16, 1849, and was the son of Levi and Eliza Gage Beemer. He died at
his home, 170 Shonnard Terrace, Yonkers, May 6, 1921, and was buried in Greenwood cemetery. Mr. Beemer moved to the United
States in early manhood. He was one of the first settlers on Shonnard Terrace, a residential district then undeveloped. He was
president of the Chestnut Ridge Corporation of New York City, and of the Phenix Mineral Products Corporation and was a
stockholder in other corporations.
For many years he gave a large part of his time to philanthropy. He organized the Hand-in-Hand Restaurants on the Bowery, where
meals were sold for five cents, and was president of the Hand-in-Hand Supply Company. For fifteen years he was president of the
Industrial Christian Alliance of New York City. He was one of the founders of the Young Men's Christian Association of Yonkers, at
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one time president of its board of trustees, and chairman of the board of trustees of the Young Women's Christian Association of
Yonkers at his death; a Hie member of the Charity Organization Society and Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children of
Yonkers; a life director of the American Bible Society; a trustee for many years of the First Presbyterian Church of Yonkers; a former
member of the board of education of the city; a Son of the American Revolution and a member of Jonkheer Lodge F&AM.
He married Margaret L. Barclay. His sons, Miles W. Beemer and James G. Beemer, jr., and his daughters, Mrs. Edward B. Church
and Mrs. Wilfred E. Smith survived him.
-----
Quindecennial Record of the Class of Eighty-Eight, Princeton University, 1888-1913
http://www.ebooksread.com/authors-eng/princeton-university-class-of-1888/quindecennial-record-of-the-span-classsearchtermclassspan-ofeighty-eigh-nir/page-9-quindecennial-record-of-the-span-classsearchtermclassspan-of-eighty-eigh-nir.shtml
RALPH EARL PRIME, Jr.
His father, Ralph Earl Prime, attorney and counsellor at law, a D.C.L. of Bellevue College (Omaha University), and LL.D. of
Wooster University, was born in Alatteawan, NY, 29 Mar 1840, and is still living. On 9 Aug 1866, in Utica, NY, he married
Annie Richards-Wolcott, our classmate's mother, who was born in Braintree, MA, 5 Feb 1841, and is still living.
Our classmate was born in Yonkers, NY, 9 Jul 1868; [d. 1942]. On 24 Sep 1895, in Yonkers, he married Jessie Heermance,
daughter of William Laing Heermance, President of Cold Storage Co. They have had three children, all of whom are living: —
Ralph Earl Prime, 3rd, b. 25 Sep 1896
William Heermance, b. 28 May 1898
Edward Gardner, b. 12 Nov 1901
Ralph was prepared for college at the Yale School, Yonkers (Theodore H. Leighton, Principal). He entered Princeton in 1884 and
graduated in 1888 in the Third Group, being awarded an Honorary Oration and the Lyman Atwater Prize in Political Science at
graduation. He won Second Prize as Senior Essayist in Clio Hall and sang on the Class Glee Club. He was a member of Clio and
roomed at 15 North Middle Reunion, 1884-1885 and at 15 South East 1886-1888. After receiving his A.B. from Princeton in 1888,
he studied at the Columbia Law School, NY, from Oct 1889 to Feb 1891, and was then admitted to the Bar of the State of New York
before graduation from the Law School. He received the degree of A.M. from Princeton, 1890, conferred in course after one year of
post graduate study.
Since Feb., 1891, he has been engaged continuously in the practice of law at Yonkers, as a member of the firm of R. E. & A. J.
Prime. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church. In politics he is an Independent, but, as he says "with Democratic leanings, and
voted with pleasure for Woodrow Wilson." He is a Notary Public; President of the Westchester County Society for Prevention of
Cruelty to Children, and Vice-President of New York State Convention of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty.
He holds membership as follows:
Jonkheer Lodge No. 845 [sic – 865], F. & A. M.
Empire State Society Sons of the American Revolution
Companion in New York State Commandery of Military Order of the Loyal Legion of United States
Yonkers Council Boy Scouts of America
His favorite recreation he gives as, "formerly yachting, latterly motoring — my heart, however, still 'beats true to Poll.' "
His father, Ralph Earl Prime, Sr., was a member of Nepperhan Lodge No. 736, Yonkers, having been there:
Initiated 05 Jun 1899
Passed 22 Jun 1899
Raised 06 Jul 1899
Master 1903-06
Dimitted 16 Jun 1909
He Affiliated with Jonkheer Lodge No. 865 as a Charter Member in 1909.
In Grand Lodge Ralph Sr. served as:
1905-07 District Deputy Grand Master, 12th Masonic District
1908 Charity Committee
1919-23 War and Relief Administration Committee
1920-25 Educational Service Committee
1920-25 Ceremonial Forms Committee
1911 Judge Advocate
1919-25 Grand Representative to England
1933-42 Commissioner of Appeals
In 1917 he served as Secretary of Sea and Field Lodge No. 1.
“A National Register of the Society, Sons of the American Revolution,” by Sons of the American Revolution, page 812.
http://books.google.com/books?id=BwyqRbA-2ykC&pg=PA812&lpg=PA812&dq=%22ralph+earl+prime%22&source=bl&ots=IoPv-
6QWkf&sig=H66OlYLjSNmi8TYAGjHP3Eh3vOM&hl=en&ei=LuruTZ7FNISugQexjpGVDw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum
=8&ved=0CEIQ6AEwBw#v=onepage&q=%22ralph%20earl%20prime%22&f=false
RALPH EARL PRIME, Yonkers, NY. (4394). Son of Alanson Jermain and Ruth Havens (Higbie) Prime; grandson of Nathaniel
Scudder and Julia Ann (Jermain) Prime; great-grandson of Benjamin Youngs Prime, Member of Sons of Liberty; great'-grandson of
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Ebenezer Prime, patriot preacher and Independence advocate; grandson of Benjamin and Mary Ann (Earl) Higbie; great-grandson
of Ralph Earl, Jr., private Mass. Militia; great'-grandson of Ralph Earl, Sr., Captain Mass. Militia.
RALPH EARL PRIME, JR., Yonkers, NY. (4552). Son of Ralph Earl and Annie Walcott (Richards) Prime; grandson of Alanson
Jermain and Ruth Havens (Higbie) Prime; great-grandson of Nathaniel Scudder and Julia Ann (Jermain) Prime; great'-grandson of
Benjamin Youngs Prime, Member of Sons of Liberty; great'-grandson of Ebeitezer Prime, patriot preacher, advocate of
Independence; great-grandson of Benjamin and Mary Ann (Earl) Higbie; great'-grandson of Ralph Earl, Jr., private Mass. Militia;
great'grandson of Ralph Earl, Sr., Captain Mass. Militia.
WILLIAM COWPER PRIME, Yonkers. NY. (4551). Son of Ralph Earl and Annie Wolcott (Richards) Prime; grandson of Alanson
Jermain and Ruth Havens (Higbie) Prime; great-grandson of Nathaniel Scudder and Julia Ann (Jermain) Prime; great'-grandson of
Benjamin Youngs Prime, Member of Sons of Liberty; great'-grandson of Ebenezer Prime, patriot preacher, Advocate of American
Independence: great-grandson of Benjamin and Mary Ann (Earl) Higbie; greats-grandson of Ralph Earl, Jr., private Mass. Militia;
great'-grandson of Ralph Earle, Sr., Captain Mass. Militia.
“Prime: The Descendants of James Prime, who was at Milford, Conn., in 1644 . . .,” by Ralph Earl Prime, page 28.
http://books.google.com/books?id=4LQ-
AAAAYAAJ&pg=PA5&lpg=PA5&dq=%22ralph+earl+prime%22&source=bl&ots=qe9PAaG2VM&sig=CVZ3beQkTOhZinUx1TO-
EvDOnnY&hl=en&ei=xuzuTbvLK-bq0gHY3-
DyDA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=2&ved=0CB4Q6AEwATge#v=onepage&q&f=false
Ealph Earl Prime, born March 29, 1840, admitted to practice law, May 1861; spent 1861, 1862, and part of 1863 as a soldier in the
army of the U. S., for suppression of the Rebellion, enlisting as a private soldier and afterwards holding commissions successively,
of Second Lieutenant, First Lieutenant, Captain and Lieutenant Colonel, and was nominated by President Lincoln a Brigadier
General; after his return from the war he settled at Yonkers, NY, where he has continued practicing his profession, and where he
now resides; traveled in Europe in 1884, again in 1888, again in 1892; also visiting the Orient in 1888. He married August 9, 1866,
Annie Eichards-Wolcott, b. 5 Feb 1841, d/o Jacob Richards, M. D., granddaughter and foster-daughter of Rev. Calvin Wolcott
Children.
a. Kate, b. 24 Jun 1867.
b. Ralph Earl Prime [Jr.], b. 09 Jul 1868. Graduated from Princeton College 1888, A. M. 1890; is a lawyer; resides at Yonkers.
c. William Cowper Prime, b. 21 Oct 1870. Graduated from Princeton College 1890; A. M. 1892; is a lawyer; resides at Yonkers.
d. Gardner Wolcott Prime, b. 18 Mar 1872; d. 20 Jul 1890; bur. at the cemetery of The Evergreens at Brooklyn, NY.
e. Ruth Havens, b. 01 Jun 1874.
f. Julia Anna, b. 28 Oct 1876.
g. Arabella Duncan (Pansy) b. 29 Jan 1879.
h. Edward Dorr Griffin Prime, b. 09 Aug 1881; d. 19 Nov 1893; bur. at the cemetery of The Evergreens at Brooklyn, NY.
Winyah Lodge No. 866, Pelham, New York
Warrant: 1909
http://www.historicpelham.com/blogarchive/Blog20050530.htm
From "BY-LAWS Winyah Lodge No. 866 F. & A. M. PELHAM, N. Y." published before March 8, 1921. This 17-page booklet includes
not only a photograph of Seth T. Lyman who, during the 1890s, built the little drugstore that still stands at One Fifth Avenue, but also
a brief history of the lodge. The "Temple" of the Lodge was opened in 1909. A photograph showing the club house acquired by the
Lodge in 1909 appears immediately below.
"On November 1, 1908, a group of Masons headed by Seth T. Lyman, met in Hiawatha Lodge room in Mount Vernon, New York, to
organize a new masonic lodge to be known as Winyah Lodge. The first regular meeting of this group as a masonic lodge under
dispensation was also held in the meeting room of Hiawatha Lodge No. 434, F. & A. M. on November 17th, 1908. The dispensation
granted by the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in the State of New York, of which Most Worshipful S. Nelson Sawyer
114

was Grand Master, was read and presented by Right Worshipful Frank V. Millard, District Deputy Grand Master of the 12th Masonic
District, which has since been divided to form the first and second Westchester-Putnam Districts.
The officers of Winyah Lodge U. D. who received and worked under this dispensation were:
Seth T. Lyman Master
H. Elliot Coe Sr. Warden
Louis C. Young Jr. Warden
Isaac C. Treasurer
H.A. Anderson Secretary
W .'. John T. Logan Sr. Deacon
Charles E. Boss Jr. Deacon
George C. Ruppert Sr. M. of C.
Emil Erickson Jr. M. of C.
R.'. W.'. Frank V. Millard Chaplain
John H. Young Sr. Steward
A. W. Crane Jr. Steward
William J. Collins Tiler
At the second and third communications routine business was attended and petitions for initiation were accepted.
On January 19, 1909 Winyah Lodge U. D. conferred its first Third Degree on Brothers in waiting. They were assisted in the second
section by the Degree Team of Hiawatha Lodge No. 434, F. & A. M.
The 11th Stated Communication was held in the meeting room of Huguenot Lodge No. 34 F. & A. M. Winyah Lodge officers
conferred the first and second sections of the Third Degree.
Between the 11th and 12th communications, the women folk and friends of Winyah Lodge U. D. held a Military Whist to raise funds
for the lodge.
The First Stated Communication of Winyah Lodge No. 866, F. & A. M. was held on June 1, 1909 for the purpose of receiving the
charter. The lodge was opened on the Third Degree by Grand Lodge Officers. The Officers of Winyah Lodge No. 866, F. & A. M.
who were then installed were:
Seth T. Lyman Master
H. Elliot Coe Sr. Warden
Louis C. Young Jr. Warden
Isaac C. Hill Treasurer
Joseph W. Stone Secretary
Albert Logan Sr. Deacon
Edward C. Logan Jr. Deacon
Julius Nelson Sr. M. of C.
John Rohrs Jr. M. of C.
Samuel J. Adler Sr. Steward
Horace Burnett Jr. Steward
Rev. Herbert Brown Chaplain
Carl Bergwald Organist
Fred Case Tiler
Walter Harris Marshal
The first act of the new lodge was to dispatch a telegram to the Grand Master to express the thanks of the brethren, to offer a
pledge of loyalty and to request that he dedicate the Pelham Masonic Temple on Labor Day, September 6, 1909. This Temple,
formerly a club house, was purchased by Winyah Lodge No. 866 from the Hutchinson Realty Company. It was dedicated as Pelham
Masonic Temple on September 6, 1909. Among those participating in the dedicatory services were, Bethlehem Commandery No. 53
Knights Templar of Mount Vernon, NY. The Port Chester Band supplied music. A letter from Most Worshipful S. Nelson Sawyer,
Grand Master expressed his regret, that he could not be present and wished Winyah well in their new Temple.
Seth T. Lyman and Mrs. Lyman financed Winyah Lodge U. D. at its inception. This loan was repaid at the Third Communication of
Winyah Lodge No. 866, F. & A. M. The Lodge is ever grateful to R.'. W.'. Seth T. Lyman for his continued support and participation
throughout the years.
Many friends and members of Winyah made gifts of paraphernalia and equipment to the lodge back in 1909 which is still in use today.
Look for the inscription on the brass plate on many of them."
Source: BY-LAWS Winyah Lodge No. 866 F. & A. M. PELHAM, N. Y., pp. 2-4 (Pelham, NY: Privately Printed; undated, but with
inscription suggesting it predates March 8, 1921).
John Stewart Lodge No. 871, Mount Vernon, New York
Warrant: ca 1909
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_1_A_to_D.htm
Harry W. Armstrong (1879-1951) American composer famous for the all-time favorite Sweet Adeline
which he wrote in 1903 with words by Richard H. Gerard. b. Somerville, MA. He was raised 20 Feb
1922 in Montgomery Lodge No. 68, New York City and affiliated with John Stewart Lodge No. 871 in
1932.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_W._Armstrong
Henry W. "Harry" Armstrong (July 22, 1879 – February 28, 1951) was a boxer, booking agent,
producer, singer, pianist and Tin Pan Alley composer. His biggest hit was "Sweet Adeline", written in
1903 with Richard H. Gerard. His 1905 song "Nellie Dean" became the signature song of the British
music hall singer Gertie Gitana, and a popular British pub song.
115

http://www.lakeharrietlodge.org/lhl277/MainMenu/Home/MasonicLibrary/TheBuilderMagazine/TheBuilderMagazineVolume3Number
12/tabid/198/Default.aspx
Ossian Lang was born 29 Oct 1865, of Scotch-English parentage, at Bradford, Yorkshire, England; educated in England, France
and Germany; editor of several prominent educational magazines, "The Social Center," New York City, 1912-1913, "The School
Journal," Teacher's Magazine, and "Educational Foundations," New York City, for twenty years, 1892-1912, "Young America," 1900-
1901, and contributing editor to "The Forum," 1902-1907; author of a number of educational biographies, pedagogical studies, and
story books for children; served as President, Board of Fire Commissioners of the city of Mount Vernon, NY, in 1910, Alderman,
1910-1912, President, Board of Aldermen, 1912-1914, President, Recreation Commission, 1915, President Board of Education,
1916; Master of John Stewart Lodge No. 871, F. and A. M., 1910 and 1911, District Deputy Grand Master, 12th Masonic District
of New York, 1911-1912; Grand Historian, Grand Lodge of New York since 1913; High Priest Mount Vernon Chapter No. 228, R. A.
M., 1906-1907; Grand Royal Arch Captain, Grand Chapter of New York, 1911; Master of Phoenix Council No. 70, R. and S M.,
1906-1907; Correspondent Grand Council of New York since 1913; Commander, Bethlehem Commandery No. 53, Knights Templar,
1907-1908; also active in Scottish Rite Bodies.
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_3_K_to_P.htm
Ossian Heerbert Lang (1865-1945) author of History of Freemasonry in. New York. b. in Bradford, England. He was a teacher,
newspaperman and lecturer. Served as superintendent of schools in Buffalo, NY. He was raised in Hiawatha Lodge No. 434 [q.v.],
Mount Vernon, NY, 19 May 1902, and later affiliated with John Steward Lodge No. 871, Mount Vernon, N.Y. d. 11 Sep 1945.
Bryn Mawr Lodge No. 882, Yonkers, New York
Warrant: ca 1910
Yonkers Lodge No. 882, Tarrytown, New York
http://archiver.rootsweb.ancestry.com/th/read/NYOSWEGO/1999-10/0940294160
Yonkers Lodge No. 882 and two other Lodges merged in the 50's; no one knew where the records of the old No 882 were.
http://www.whencecameyou.com/speech/van1.htm
Yonkers Lodge No. 882 will officially be a part of Van Cortlandt Lodge No. 1034 before this Masonic year ends [2009]. After years of
trying to iron out every detail (a few of which might have been due to some T-crossing and i-dotting confusion caused in a “grander”
Lodge building than this), it will all finally be done.
Pleasantville Lodge No. 886, Pleasantville, New York
Warrant: ca 1911.
Fern Brook Lodge No. 898, Yonkers, New York
Warrant: ca 1912
Apparently Bro. Herbert Wolff of Fern Brook Lodge Petitioned to be the first Master of Far East Lodge at Yokohama, Honshu,
Japan, in August 1948, per the below interesting documents:
http://www2.gol.com/users/lodge1/history-e/petition-scan.html
Hdq. Eighth Army Ordnance Section,
BIG-5, APO 343
United States Army
25 August 1948,
PETITION FOR A DISPENSATION TO FORM A NEW LODGE
To the Most Worshipful Albert J. Brazee Jr.,
Grand Master of Masons in the Philipine Islands:
The petition of the undersigned respectfully represents that they are Master
Masons in good standing; that they were last members of the respective
Lodges opposite their several signatures hereunto, as will appear from the
dimit of each of the petitioners, herewith transmitted; that they reside in or near
the City of Yokohama, in the province of Honshu, in Japan; that among them
are a sufficient number of brethern well qualified to open and hold a Lodge of
Free and Accepted Masons, and to discharge all its various duties in the three
degrees of Ancient Masonry, in accordance with established usage; and that,
having the prosperity of the Craft at heart and being desirous to use their best
endeavors for the difusion of its beneficient principles, they pray for
Dispensation empowering them to form, open and hold a regular Lodge, at the
Masonic Temple of Yokohama, Honshu, Japan, aforesaid to be called FAR
EAST LODGE.
They have nominated and respectfully recommend Brother Herbert Wolff
as the first Master, Brother Herbert Lee Ellison as the first Senior Warden, and
116

Brother Abraham Jacobson as the first Junior Warden of the said Lodge, they being each, in all respects, compentent to perform all
the duties of either of the stations for which they are severally proposed; and, if the prayer of the petitioners be granted, they
promise in all things strict obedience to the commands of the Grand Master, and undeviating conformity to the Constitution and
Regulations of the Grand Lodge.
Dated at Yokohama, Japan, on the 25th day of August A. L. 5052.
Signatures
No. Name & No. of Lodge States or Country
1. Herbert Wolff Fernbrook Lodge #898 Yonkers, N.Y.
2. Herbert Lee Ellison Camp Knox #919 Fort Knox, Ky.
3. Abraham Jacobson Westgate #335 Los Angeles, Calif.
4. W. J. Eichorn Muog Lodge #89 Manila, P.I.
5. L. V. Twyford Byers #81 Bradford, Ark.
6. Kenneth S. Coe Camp Knox #919 Fort Knox, Ky.
7. Manfred D. Ratcliff Camp Knox #919 Fort Knox, Ky.
8. Richard L. Craver Camp Knox #919 Fort Knox, Ky.
9. David Kurtz Piatt Lodge #194 New York, N.Y.
10. Richard K. Irvin Anniston 443 Anniston Ala.
11. John J. Stevens Curfew 73 Carabelle, Fla.
12. Owen G. Denton Tyler 1233 Tyler Texas
13. J. F. Shortess Hammerton #332 N. Charleston, S.C.
14. Robert Beauchamp Washington #20 Sacramento, Calif.
15. Stanley A. Palmer Bataugas #35 Philippine Islands
16. Melvin M. Burger, Jr. Dearborn #172 Dearborn, Mich.
17. William E. Piercey Columbia #26 East Haddam, Conn.
18. Lawrence A. Martin Army & Navt #512 Detroit, Michigan
19. Richard. B. Eldridge Milton C. Marvin #117 Guam, M.I.
20. David F. Law Henry A. Green #250 Fort Lewis, Wn.
21. Samuel Barrash Cassia #45 Baltimore, Md.
22. Dewey M. Radcliffe Mt. Hermon #179 Hyattsville, Md.
23. E. E. Cartwright Rising Light #397 Huntington Park, Calif.
24. Elmer O. Hinman Fairmount #435 San Francisco, California
117

On the 26th of October,1948, Master Masons in the Yokohama area petitioned for, and received, a dispensation from the Most
Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines to form, open, and hold a Masonic Lodge. The officers
therein named were: Brother Herbert Wolff, Worshipful Master; Brother Herbert Lee Ellison, Senior Warden; and Brother
Abraham Jacobson, Junior Warden.
Far East Lodge U. D. opened and held meetings under this dispensation until 31 Dec 1948, at which time the Lodge submitted to
the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Philippines all records, forms, and transactions of the Lodge activities, together with a
petition praying for a charter. On 27 Jan 1949, Far East Lodge U. D. was granted Charter Number 124, thereby becoming another
Masonic Lodge legally constituted and chartered under the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Philippines
http://www2.gol.com/users/lodge1/history-e/firstraising.html
Back Row: Bro. Herbert Lee Ellison | WB Herbert Wolff | Bro. Abraham Jacobson
Front Row: The first Brethren Raised by Lodge No. 124
118

Thistle Lodge No. 900, Yonkers, New York
Warrant: ca 1912
http://books.google.com/books?id=_OERAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA528&lpg=PA528&dq=%22Thistle+Lodge+No.+900%22&source=bl&ots
=LEVmlTZygu&sig=4iVaAa8tPffIBvY1f4jFAp0YvB8&hl=en&ei=-
63vTdbALNSq0AG1taz1DA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CCcQ6AEwAg#v=onepage&q=%22Thistle%20Lod
ge%20No.%20900%22&f=false page 528.
The first annual dinner of Thistle Lodge, No. 900, F. & A. M., of Yonkers, was held at Francfort's Hotel, that city, January 31st
[1912]. About sixty men were at the tables in the large dining room, and it was a, very enjoyable occasion. The menu was excellent.
The program was as follows: "Grand Lodge of the State of New York," proposed by William R. Jackson, Master of the Lodge:
responded to by J. Edward Murphy. Song, "Asleep in the Deep," John Malone- "Sister Lodges," proposed by Simpson McPhall;
responded to by W. B. Jones, of Rising Star Lodge. Song, Signor Franco. "The Land We Live In," proposed by J. Richardson;
responded to by George Mee Master, of Nepperhan Lodge. Song, "The Lass o' Ballochmyle," Alexander Bruce. "The Craft,"
proposed by Brother Murphy; responded to by Rev. D. G. Lawson. Song. "Friar of Orders Gray," J. C. Anderson. "Thistle Lodge,"
proposed by Fred Hare: responded to by Brother Jackson.
Hai ry Blackburn was the accompanist for the singers. Past Master Simpson McPhail was presented with a gold watch as a token of
appreciation for the services rendered by him while occupying the Master's chair, last year. Rev. Mr. Lawson read original verses,
which made a hitThistle Lodge's officers for 1913 include: William R. Jackson, Master; Robert M. Barr, SW; Thomas H. Slimmon,
JW; John Ross, Treas: Alexander M. Russell, Secry; Robert C. Mathleson, SD; Alexander Bruce, JD.
====
http://diamond-thistle.org/History%20Part%204.htm
Thistle, a Yonkers lodge, with whom Diamond has had the most cordial and fraternal relationship over the years, found itself with an
adequate treasury, a membership of over 200 Brothers, some of the most proficient Masons in our District, and yet unable to fill the
complete line of Officers and barely able to muster a quorum to conduct Lodge business on several occasions. Their 1989 Master
was serving his fifth term in that Chair and their choices were either to merge with another Lodge or surrender their Charter.
They approached Diamond Lodge about a merger, because of our past relationship and their appreciation of our continued
participation in community service and Widows’ Program in spite of diminishing numbers. A year of conferences, consultations with
Grand Lodge about necessary procedures, discussions and votes by both Lodges, finally resulted in the official formation of
Diamond Thistle Lodge No. 555, on December 15, 1989.
This infusion of new Brothers, with their colorful and popular plaid-clad Fellowcraft Degree team, the flag presentation ceremony,
their Robert Burns Night and all the rest of their traditions will surely make Diamond Thistle Lodge No. 555, a vital Masonic
institution.
Mount Masada Lodge No. 902, Mount Vernon, New York
Warrant: ca 1912
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=23048736
David Wolf b. 15 Apr 1898 Brooklyn; d. 30 Jan 1965, Manhattan, was the son of Ike Wolf and Bessie Levy. The family moved to
suburban Mount Vernon, NY, in 1913. In 1927, he founded the Sensitive Research Instrument Corp. The firm was noted for its
pioneering efforts in the development of the precision electrostatic voltmeter, an essential measuring instrument in design work
conducted at the University of California which led to production of the first nuclear weapons. The company had an international
reputation in the field of science.
Mr. Wolf was prominent in Mount Vernon for his active support of youth groups. He was a member of the YM-YWCA board of
directors and a president of its Men's Club. He was an active member of the "Y" for more than 50 years and played on its first
basketball teams. He was also an active member of Congregation Emanu-el, B'nai B'rith, and the Zionist Organization of America.
He served on the board of directors of the Big Brothers of the Hebrew National Orphan Home and was a member of the board of
directors of Weitzman Institute. A member of the Mount Masada Lodge, F.& A.M., he belonged to the Vernon Hills Country Club.
He was a generous and often anonymous contributor to Mount Vernon charitable and community institutions, being active in fund
raising for the Mount Vernon Hospital, Bonds for Israel and the United Jewish Appeal. Mr. Wolf was survived by his wife Anne, a
brother and sister, two daughters, and five grandchildren.
http://mountmasadagalaxylodge.com/Robert-B-Cagan.html
Robert B. Cagan, a longtime resident of Yonkers, NY, died Monday April 1, 2008. He was a World War II United States Army
Combat Veteran in the Pacific Theater. He was the Past Grand Lodge Staff Officer, and was an avid gardener. He was the beloved
husband of 58 years to Wilma; the loving father of Marsha, and her husband Jay Marksheid, Steven Cagan, and Arlene, and her
husband Dr. Edward Murphy.
119

Mount Masada-Galaxy Lodge No. 902, Tuckahoe, New York
Warrant: ca 1961?; Chartered15 Jun 1913
Website: http://mountmasadagalaxylodge.com/
Living Past Masters
1956 Harold B. Davis
1968 Norman Greenburg
1969 Gerald Schochet
1971 Henry Scharfman
1973 Herb Posner
1974 Harold Niedelman
1975/80/81/84 Harvey Bayer
1976 Bernard Granite
1977 Barry Preville
1978/89 Errol Insler
1979 Ira Bronsky
1982-83/87 David Katzenstein
1985-1986 Arthur Reichling
1995-1997 Jay Marksheid
Gramatan Lodge No. 927, Bronxville, New York
Warrant: ca 1915
Jerome David Kern
1997-1998 Richard Fatigate
1998-2000 Edward Conte
2002-2004 Michael Quigley
2004-2006 Andrew Strauss
2006-2008 Matt Frank
2008-2010 JohnMcAloon
http://www.circusmusic.us/shop/manufacturer.php?n=10&p=15
Kern was a charter member of the American Society of Composers, Authors
and Publishers. He was associated with numerous organizations, including
Gramaton Lodge of Masonry [Initiated May 1919]. Among his close friends in
New York who were Masonic Brothers were Eddie Cantor and Paul
Whiteman.
http://www.tntpc.com/252/philalethes/p86jun.html
Jerome Kern was featured in a recent edition of The Empire State Mason.
The article was written by Kenneth R. Force, and starts by mentioning the
postage stamp commemorating the 100th anniversary of Kern's birth. In one
paragraph we read: "Jerome Kern became a Mason in 1919 having been
raised in Gramatan (now Gramatan-Vernon - 1986) Lodge 927 Bronxville. He
was very proud of his Masonic Fraternity and so stated this to his friends and acquaintances. As his career continued to soar, he
tenaciously held onto those patriotic and morale values that were to be reflected in his music, as well as his personal life."
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0006153/bio
Jerome David Kern was born 27 Jan 1885. He began his stage career grafting American songs (for which he wrote the music) into
imported European operettas. His breakthrough came with the song "They Didn't Believe Me", written (with lyrics by Edward Laska)
for a show called "The Girl from Utah". It established him as a major American composer in 1914. Married to a Englishwoman, Kern
became an Anglophile, and teamed up with British writers Guy Bolton and P. G. Wodehouse to write the so-called "Princess Theatre
musicals"--shows like "Very Good, Eddie" and "Leave It To Jane", which were unusual not so much for their silly storylines but for
the fact that the characters were everyday people rather than the exotic characters of operetta, and also for the fact that these
shows had few sets and small casts. He later wrote shows like "Sally" and "Sunny", both loaded with song hits, star casts and
spectacular sets but silly plots. Finally, looking for an entirely different type of musical, Kern decided to adapt Edna Ferber's novel
"Show Boat" to the musical stage. Although Oscar Hammerstein II agreed to do the adaptation and lyrics, nearly everyone (including
Ferber) thought Kern and Hammerstein had lost their minds. "Show Boat"'s storyline featured interracial marriage, wife desertion,
alcoholism and gambling, and the most realistic characters ever seen in a musical up to then, not to mention the song "Ol' Man
River" and an opening chorus of black dockworkers singing about their work. Most of the songs were integrated so well into the
story that they could not possibly have been sung in another show or taken out of "Show Boat" without damaging the plot. And
"Show Boat" featured a song, "Mis'ry's Comin' Round", which was so utterly tragic that Florenz Ziegfeld, Jr. ordered it cut--and it
remained cut, existing only as background music, until the 1994 revival. In spite of all this, "Show Boat" became a huge hit and has
remained one of the musical theater's greatest classics and most often revived shows--the only musical pre-1943 to be revived over
and over. Kern, however, did not experiment any further--his other hit shows, "Music In The Air", "Roberta" and "The Cat and the
Fiddle", contain classic songs that are still sung, but the shows are almost never revived. After a heart attack in 1939, Kern wrote
songs exclusively for movie musicals. Two of his movie musicals, Swing Time (1936) with Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, and
Cover Girl (1944) with Rita Hayworth and Gene Kelly, have become famous for their songs and dances. Kern died of a stroke at the
age of 60, i11 Nov 1945.
-----
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_3_K_to_P.htm
Clarence E. Lovejoy Newspaperman and author. b. June 26, 1894 in Waterville, Maine. Graduate of Columbia U. in 1917. Was
reporter on papers in Pittsfield, Mass. and Meriden, Conn. from 1910-14. In 1925 he founded the Bronxville (N.Y.) Press. Has been
with the New York Times, 1915-17, 1919-20, and since 1934 as boating editor. From 1927-47 he was alumni executive and editor of
the Columbia Alumni News of Columbia U., and since 1947 has been director of College Admissions Advisory Service, N.Y. Served
as officer in WWI with A.E.F. and continued as a captain with regular army after war until 1925. In WWII he was with Military
Intelligence and became a colonel. He was director of public relations for the European Theatre under Eisenhower and McNarey.
120

Author of So You're Going to College, and Lovejoy's Complete Guide to American Colleges and Universities. Affiliated with
Gramatan Lodge No. 927, Bronxville, N.Y. on April 17, 1925 from Crescent Lodge of Mass. Dimitted Sept. 20, 1936.
Fraternity Lodge No. 942, Ossining, New York
Warrant: 4 May 1916
See Fraternity-Dunderberg Lodge No. 942 following . . .
Fraternity-Dunderberg Lodge No. 942, Tarrytown, New York
26 Nov 1980 this merger was approved by the Committee on Charters and Fraternity-Dunderberg Lodge No. 942.
The Lodge was constituted 5 May 1981.
http://www.fraternitydunderberg.com/HIST2.PDF
HISTORY OF FRATERNITY-DUNDERBERG LODGE NO. 942 F. & A.M.
This history was compiled and written by:
W.’. Herbert M. Lebovitz Historian
Brother Arthur Nisonoff Secretary
Revised and updated by W.’. Raymond A Reber Historian
Prior to World War I, a group of Masons met in the home of a man who lived Masonry. There they discussed the need for a new
Lodge in Ossining. After many meetings and considerable work W.’. Romine Williams and his Brothers attained their objective.
On January 16, 1916 a special communication of Ossining Lodge was held in Masonic Hall, Ossining, NY. R.’.W.’. William B.
Adams, D.D.G.M. called the Lodge to order. He then ordered R.’.W.’. Thomas Leary of Westchester Lodge No. 180 to read the
Dispensation from Grand Lodge to Ossining Lodge which appointed the following officers:
Romine Williams Master
Charles Finkelstein SW
Morris Newman JW
Also appointed at this meeting were the following officers:
Morris Finkelstein Treasurer
Moses Myers Secretary
Gustave Herrschaft Sr. Deacon
Abram Sadofsky Jr. Deacon
Four months later, on May 4, 1916, we were presented with our Charter and at that time we were given a new name, Fraternity
Lodge No. 942. Since our inception we have sponsored two offspring’s, Dunderberg Lodge No. 1070 in Peekskill and Sleepy Hollow
Lodge No. 1136 in Tarrytown.
From a membership of 37 on December 31, 1916, Fraternity Lodge attained a high of 160 members in the 1950s. In the ensuing
years a declining interest in fraternal organizations began to take its toll. By 1978 Sleepy Hollow’s membership fell off to a point
where it could no longer operate as a working Lodge. Its charter was turned in to Grand Lodge and many of its members joined
Solomon’s Lodge No. 196.
Dunderberg Lodge No. 1070 was formed by a group of Fraternity Lodge No. 942 who lived in the Peekskill area. The first meeting
was held on January 14, 1926 in Peekskill. Immediate past Grand Master M.’.W.’. William A. Rowan along with a delegation of
Grand line officers opened the Lodge, presented the new charter and consecrated the Lodge. After a recess past DDGM R.’.W.’.
Walter Johnstone with the assistance of Brother Samuel James Alterman as temporary secretary and R.’.W.’. Walter Faucher, past
DDGM, as temporary Marshall, installed the following officers:
RW Louis E. Keller Master
Bro. Charles Blank Sr. Warden
Bro. Samuel D. Hartstein Jr. Warden
Bro. S. James Alterman Secretary
Bro. Lewis Kornhouser Treasurer
Bro. Irving M. Grossman Sr. Deacon
Bro. Frederick N. Weston Jr. Deacon
Bro. Isador Vogel SMC
Bro. William Karpf JMC
Bro. David Slutsky Sr. Steward
Bro. Samuel Poritsky Jr. Steward
Bro. Martin Weiss Marshal
Bro. Charles Weller Chaplain
W Addison W. Brown Tiler
Thanks was given to Courtlandt Lodge No. 34 for permitting the new Lodge to meet in their Masonic Hall. 29 Brothers paid $10
dues. $8 was spent on the caterer and $100 paid to Grand Lodge, leaving an initial balance of $182. The initiation fee was set at
$75.
Like Fraternity Lodge No. 942, membership grew to over 100 by the 1950s. Thereafter membership declined.
By 1978 both Lodes were actively pursuing merger possibilities. Fraternity Lodge No. 942 was well on the way to merge with
Ossining Lodge No. ___ [note: there were Lodges in Ossining, but none by that name].
After several meetings it was agreed that the two lodges would merge and that the merged Lodge would bear the name Fraternity-
Dunderberg Lodge No. 942.
On November 26, 1980 the merger was approved by the Committee on Charters and Fraternity-Dunderberg Lodge No. 942. The
Lodge was constituted on May 5, 1981.
Fraternity Lodge No. 942, during its operation by that name received a number of Grand Lodge appointments and awards:
R.’.W.’. Charles Finkelstein Grand Steward
R.’.W.’. I. Edward Grossman Grand Sword Bearer
R.’.W.’. Marvin Ross D.D.G.M.
R.’.W.’. Fredric L. Aibel D.D.G.M.
121

R.’.W.’.Hanley Winter D.D.G.M.
R.’.W.’. Abraham Cohen Grand Representative
Br. Arthur Nisonoff Dedicated Service Award
Br. Joseph Giella Dedicated Service Award
Br. Gabe Sher Dedicated Service Award
Br. Abe Herskowitz Dedicated Service Award
Dunderberg Lodge No. 1070 received the following appointments:
R.’.W.’. Alex Shustin D.D.G.M.
R.’.W.’. Sol Birbrower Grand Representative
The first officers to hold office in Fraternity-Dunderberg Lodge No. 942 were as follows:
Master Harry Appel
SW Kevin Carosella
JW Murray Gudisman
Secretary Arthur Nisonoff
Treasurer Edward Grossman
Trustee, 1981 W.’. Alan Drogy
Trustee, 1982 W.’. Mitchell Schwartz
Trustee, 1983 R.’.W.’. Frederic Aible
Chaplain Abraham Cohen
SD James Levin
JD Plato Stout
SMC Paul Simco
JMC Charles Miller
Sr Steward Abraham Herskowitz
Jr Steward Sol Green
Marshal Mike Allegro
Tiler Herman Heckman
As a merged Lodge, Fraternity-Dunderberg Lodge No. 942 has been honored by the following Grand Lodge appointments and
awards:
R.’.W.’. Harry Appel Grand Director of Ceremonies 1981
R.’.W.’. Mitchell M. Schwartz Grand Sword Bearer 1982
Br. Victor S. Versace 1st place M.A.G.L.A. contest 1990
W.’. Paul S. Reif Dedicated Service Award 1991
R.’.W.’. Warren E. Brown Grand Steward 1992-94
W.’. Murray Gudisman Dedicated Service Award 1994
R.’.W.’. Murray Gudisman Grand Representative 1995
W.’. Jay Stephens Dedicated Service Award 1996
R.’.W.’. Victor S. Versace D.D.G.M. 1996-98
W.’. Michael Kohel Dedicated Service Award 1997
Br. Irwin Bass Dedicated Service Award 2000
R.’.W.’. James E. Martin Grand Steward 2000-01
R.’.W.’. Paul M. Rosen D.D.G.M. 2006-08
R.’.W.’. Victor S. Versace Grand Master of Cryptic Masons 2006-08
R.’.W.’. Gerard Keating Grand Sword Bearer 2009-10
MASTERS OF FRATERNITY LODGE NO. 942 & DUNDERBERG LODGE NO. 1070 - first 40 years
Year Fraternity Lodge No. Yrs Dunderberg Lodge No. Yrs
1916 RW Romine Williams 1st Master ---
1917 "
2 ---
1918 RW Charles Finkestein ---
1919 " 2 ---
1920 Gustave Herrschaft ---
1921 Isador Finkelstein ---
1922 Henry E. Lasselle ---
1923 Benjamin Cartoon ---
1924 Robert H. Myers ---
1925 RW Louis E. Keller ---
1926 Mory H. Cartoon RW Louis E. Keller 1st Master
1927 Archie Rosenblatt Charles Blank
1928 Samuel S. Pines Samuel Hartstein
1929 Isaac Rosenblatt Irving H. Grossman
1930 Henry Philipson Isadore Vogel
1931 Milton Hammel Charles Jacob
1932 J. Burtram Farren Micheal Kuritzky
1933 Max Greenberg Jerome H. Silverstein
1934 George Philipson Harry D Cohen
1935 Bernard Rosenblatt Irving S Keller (son of Louis)
1936 RW I. Edward Grossman William J. Haft
1937 Matthew Blummer Archibald Loshin
1938 Harry Cohen Samuel Slutzky
1939 Louis Weingrad RW William S. Smith
1940 "
2
"
2
1941 RW Charles Finkelstein 3 Irving H. Lipton
1942 Bennett Miller Barnett Platter
1943 Mendel Sussman Herman M. Epstein
1944 RW I. Edward Grossman 2 Lawrence B Goldstein
1945 Harry Cohen 2 Jack Schneiderman
122

1946 Henry R Willer Harry Hulnich
1947 Mendel Sussman 2 RW Solomon Birbrower
1948 Abraham R Katz Archibald Loshin 2
1949 Irving Gendel Benjamin I. Sandberg
1950 Irving Schwartz Bernard Berger
1951 Hilliard Greene Solomon S. Ganeles
1952 John J Werner Sidney H. Fisch
1953 Herbert M Lebovitz Bernard G Gordon
1954 w Abraham Klamka w Jack Kuritzky
1955 w Herbert E Greene w Alexander Shustin
Records from the early years of Fraternity Lodge No. 942 are lost.
Dunderberg Lodge No.1070 was formed by Brothers of Fraternity.
12 of 13 applicants for affiliation at the 1st meeting were from Fraternity.
MASTERS OF FRATERNITY LODGE 942 & DUNDERBERG LODGE 1070 1956 thru 1980
Fraternity Lodge No. Yrs Dunderberg No. Yrs
1956 Mitchell M Schwartz Bernard Baumann
1957 Irving Goldberg Walter Borten
1958 Robert M. Woolf Albert Droger
1959 Sol Shuchman Leonard Brown
1960 RW Marvin Ross Archibald Loshin 3
1961 George Bernstein Norman Roskin
1962 Bernard Bernstein Fred Berger
1963 RW Fredric L Aibel Fred Berger 2
1964 George Morganstein Irving Blackman
1965 Daniel G Levin Arnold H Platter
1966 George Z Ross Sam Musikar
1967 RW Hanley Winter " 2
1968 "
2
"
3
1969 Arthur Klamka Murray Ike
1970 George Z Ross 2 RW Sol Birbrower 2
1971 Irving Kopelman
"
3
1972 " 2 Harold Kruger
1973 RW Hanley Winter 3 Daniel Robbins
1974 Mitchell M. Schwartz 2 " 2
1975 RW Fredric L Aibel 2 Alan Drogy
1976 Abraham Cohen " 2
1977 " 2 Eugene Simco
1978 "
3
"
2
1979 Harry Appel Paul Simco
1980 "
2
"
2
Masters Total 49 in 65 years 43 in 55 years including Louis E Keller who was Master of Fraternity Lodge No. 942
MASTERS OF FRATERNITY - DUNDERBERG LODGE NO. 942
No. Yrs # Master
1981 Harry Appel 3 1 was Master of Fraternity
1982 Kevin Carosella 2
1983 RW Murray Gudisman, DSA 3
1984 Paul R. Simco 3 4 was Master of Dunderberg
1985 William Morrero 5
1986 Henry Grossman 6
1987 RW Warren E Brown 7
1988
"
1989 Henry Grossman 2
1990 Sheldon Mankes 8
1991 Jay Stephens 9
1992 Michael S Kohel, DSA 10
1993
Paul S Reif, DSA 11
1994 RW James Martin 12
1995 RW Victor Versace 13
1996 Gerald F Beyrer 14
1997 Michael A Spath 15
1998 RW Paul M Rosen 16
1999 "
2
2000 William Morrero 2
2001 RW Paul M Rosen 3
2002 "
4
2003 Vincent Furfaro 17
2
123

2004 Larry Solomon 18
2005 RW Gerald Keating 19
2006 Raymond A Reber 20
2007 Raymond A Reber 2
2008 Jeffrey Wynans 21
2009 Matthew Weiss 22
2010 Glenn Tompkins Sr. 23
Peary Lodge No. 987, Yonkers, New York
Warrant: 1822
An invitation was received from Emil Turner, Master of Peary Lodge, to take part in that lodge's silver jubilee program on May 16
[1947]. Most of the charter members of Peary Lodge came from Rising Star Lodge, Mr. Turner said.
http://www.nyjnews.com/obits/Obit1.php?pid=2808933&fulldate=08-18-2009
Walter James Lumley Jr., passed away on 16 Aug 2009 at Nyack Hospital from heart failure. He was born on 16 Aug 1920 in
Toledo, OH. He was the son of the late Jane and Walter Lumley. When he was an infant his family moved to Yonkers, NY. Walter
attended Yonkers schools and graduated from Saunders Trade School in 1938. He was a steamfitter by trade belonging to the
plumbers and steamfitters union, Local No. 21. He was a superintendent in construction working primarily on commercial and school
buildings. He also was a very active Mason belonging to the Peary Lodge, now known as Yonkers Lodge. Walter was Master
four times and earned the title of Right Worshipful. He joined the Navy in 1942 and was discharged in 1946. During the war he
served on two LSTs, 61 and 73. He participated in all the Mediterranean invasions, including the D-Day invasion. Walter compiled
23 trips across the English Channel before he was finally sent to the pacific until he was discharged. Walter is survived by his wife
Emma "Dorin" of 58 years, and his son Walter. Also surviving is his brother George and many nieces and nephews. Burial was at
Fred Loescher Veteran's Cemetery.
Orawaugum Lodge No. 1003, White Plains, New York
Warrant: 1922
Grand Lodge Proceedings, 1922.
Owing to circumstances known to him, the District Deputy Grand Master of the 2nd Westchester-Putnam District has withheld his
certificate of approval of Orawaupum Lodge at White Plains. This Committee therefore cannot recommend that a Charter be granted
at this time to said Lodge and requests permission to refer the petition of this Lodge to the Grand Master for such action as he may
desire to take.
Orawaugum-Siwanoy Lodge No. 1003,
http://benjisimon.blogspot.com/2005/11/in-memory-of-daniel-j-blumenthal.html
Daniel J. Blumenthal passed away Thursday, 10 Nov 2005. Predeceased by his parents, Sadie and Raphael J. Blumenthal and his
father-in-law, William "Bill" Raskind. Survived by his wife of 31 years, Peggy (Raskind); daughters and son-in-law, Shira and
Benjamin Simon, and Elana Blumenthal; mother-in-law, Bess Raskind; aunt, Ida Wattenberg; uncle, Benjamin Raskind and several
cousins. Dan taught Chemistry and Physics in the Plainview-Old Bethpage School District for 25 years and did substitute teaching in
several Rochester area school districts. He also practiced Pharmacy in Poughkeepsie and Rochester. Dan was a member of
Fairport-Flower City Lodge 476 F&AM and was a Past Master of Orawaupum-Siwanoy Lodge 1003 F&AM. He was Grand
Steward from the second Westchester-Putnam District in 1984-1985. Masonic Services were held in the Rabbi Abraham Solomon
Chapel of Temple Beth El followed by Dan's interment at Mt. Hope Cemetery.
Daniel D. Tompkins [Hartsdale] Lodge No. 1013, Hartsdales, New York
Warrant: ca 1923
http://www.hmdb.org/marker.asp?marker=42511
Near This Spot Was Born June 21st 1774
Daniel D. Tompkins
Governor Of The State Of New York 1807-1817
Vice-President Of The United States 1817-1825
This Site Is Marked By
The Westchester County Historical Society
Through The Generosity Of Charles Butler Esq.
1897
Site of Daniel D. Tompkins Birthplace
By Michael Herrick, May 10, 2011
124

[Lower Plaque}
The monument was given by
The Westchester County Historical Society
Daniel D. Tompkins Lodge No. 1013, F. & A. M.
Edward J. Snyder, Master John Thies, Monument Trustee
The lodge then moved it to this site, donated by
J. Dan Tooker, Jr. and J. Brooke Willis
and dedicated it on June 12, 1976, presenting it to the
Village of Scarsdale, Boine T. Johnson, Jr. Mayor
http://fultonhistory.com/newspaper%2010/Yonkers%20NY%20Herald%20Statesman/Yonkers%20NY%20Herald%20Statesman%20
1979%20Grayscale/Yonkers%20NY%20Herald%20Statesman%201979%20b%20Grayscale%20-%200573.pdf
Gannett Westchester Newspapers - Friday. Dec. 21. 1979
Ronald Giannotti of Yonkers has been elected to serve on the standing committee of the Daniel D. Tompkins Lodge 1013, F. & A.M.
Charles Todd Lee of Scarsdale has been elected the Master the lodge for next year. Serving with Lee will be Charles G. Gerwig of
Scarsdale, Senior Warden; Howard I. Theall of White Plains, Junior Warden; Kenneth R. Knoll of North White Plains, Treasurer and
Irving B. Harvey of Scarsdale, Secretary.
Frederick W. Egger of Scarsdale. retiring master, was elected a trustee for a three-year period.
Elected to serve one year with Giannotti on the standing committee, an advisory body, were Herbert J. Stone of North White Plains,
chairman; James Cardona of Thornwood; Stephen J. Craig of Hartsdale; and William A. Dans of Elmsford.
The slate will be installed at a lodge meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 8, at 8 p.m., in the Hartsdale Square Club on Wilson Avenue.
Prior to his retirement, Lee was an overseas director for Philco-Ford, a subsidiary of the Ford Motor Co. He has served the
American Bible Society for 10 years as a member of the board of managers. He is a member of the Hitchcock Presbyterian Church,
the Scarsdale Town Club, Scarsdale Historical Society and the Old Guard of White Plains. He also is a director of the Westchester
Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution.
http://www.thejointlibrary.org/archives/TheTimes/1976/1976-11-24/pg_0001.pdf
THE TIMES- SCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD, N.J. - WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 1976
Henry Christian Hoffmann, 81, retired executive vice president of Reeves Brothers, Inc.. a New York textile firm, died Thursday
(Nov. 18, 1976) at his home 219 Paterson Road, Fanwood. Mr. Hoffmann, a native of New York, lived in Hartsdale, N.Y. before
moving to Fanwood in 1926. He retired from Reeves Brothers in 1962 after 38 years with the company but has continued to serve
as a director of the firm. He also has been a member of the three-man panel of the textile division of the
American Arbitration Association and served on the arbitration board during the 1940s. Mr. Hoffmann was a past president of the
Arkwright Club, a textile association, and a member of the Merchant's Club in New York. He held membership in the Daniel E.
Tompkins Lodge 1013, F&AM in Hartsdale. Locally, he was an active member and strong supporter of the Fanwood-Scotch Plains
Rotary Club, and has been a member of the Fanwood United Fund.
-----
http://www.ambrosend.com/44-miller_genealogy.html
THE JOURNAL, Crosby, N. D.
Wednesday, February 28, 1979
Former Ambrose man succumbs to heart attack
Gordon C[lare]. Miller, 57, a longtime White Plains, New York resident, and formerly of Ambrose,
died suddenly from a heart attack on February 13. A Masonic service was held at Bennett Funeral
Home, 824 Scarsdale Ave., Scarsdale, NY, on February 16 at which all friends were welcome to
attend.
Mr. Miller was born in Ambrose, North Dakota on May 21, 1921, a son of Harry H. Miller and Minnie V.
Anderson. He received most of his grade school education in San Diego, California, but graduated
from Ambrose High School in 1933. He attended the University of Colorado and graduated with a
degree in music in 1949, after serving four and a half years in the U. S. Army. He was employed by
125

General Mills in White Plains for 30 years and worked in the Food Product Division.
He was an active member of the Masons and was Secretary of the Daniel D. Tompkins Lodge No. 1013. From 1970 to 1971 he
served as District Deputy Grand Master of the Second Westchester-Putnam District. In 1969 he was appointed Assistant Grand
Lecturer for the Masons and in 1968 he became Master of Scarsdale Lodge No. 1094. He was active in the Past Masters
Association, Masonic Children's Association, and the District Deputy Grand Masters Association. He was a member of the
Bethlehem Crusader Commandry No. 53 and was active in its drill team.
He is survived by his wife Charlotte Belsan; a son, Keith of White Plains; a daughter Karen Proft of Peekskill; two brothers, A.
George Miller of Chula Vista, California, and Harry A. Miller of Ambrose, North Dakota.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be sent to the Heart Fund or Masonic Home building fund, care of Daniel D. Tompkins
Lodge, 5 Robin Hill Rd., Scarsdale, NY.
-----
http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/1986-05-06/news/0220130029_1_deltona-newfoundland-white-plains
May 06, 1986
Bert C. Neil, 80, Gainesboro Sreet, Deltona, died Sunday. Born in Newfoundland, Canada, he moved to Deltona [FL] in 1983 from
Copek, NY. He was a retired route supervisor for the Dellwood Dairies, White Plains, NY. He was an Episcopalian, Past Master of
Daniel D. Tompkins Lodge 1013, F&AM, Hartsdale, NY, 32nd degree Mason for the Imperial Council, Cypress Temple Shrine,
Albany, NY, and past patron for the Aletha Chapter of the Order of Estern Star, White PLains, NY. Survivors: wife, Frances A.; sons,
Reginald A., Mesa, Ariz., Ronald E., Nanuet, NY; daughter, Anita Grady, Penn Valley, Calif.; brother, Ralph, Newfoundland; sister,
Evelyn Vahle, Deltona.
Larchmont Lodge No. 1030, Larchmont, New York
Warrant: ca 1924
Now merged with Huguenot Lodge No. 46.
http://www.mastermason.com/cny-masonry/dad.html
Irwin W. "Dad" Hally is a Past Master of the former Larchmont Lodge # 1030 F&AM, now merged with Huguenot Lodge #46. He
was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason on June 8, 1926 - 73 years as a Mason.
----
Waite Charles Hoyt
http://www.knightstemplar.org/KnightTemplar/0808/
WAITE HOYT:
Hall-of-Fame Pitcher, Play-by-Play Announcer and Once a Mason
by Ivan M. Tribe, K. Y. C. H., K. C. T., 33o
126

In recent years, major league baseball players who go on to become play by play announcers have become fairly common; but such
was not always the case. In recent decades one can think of Jerry Coleman, Joe Nuxhall, Don Drysdale, Herb Score, and perhaps
most obviously the late Dizzy Dean. Yet there were others who pioneered in the trade. One of the best who also earned his niche in
the Hall of Fame at Cooperstown was Waite Hoyt who was the ace right hander of the New York Yankees at nearly the same time
that Brother Herb Pennock was their southpaw hurling star. After two decades in the majors, Hoyt went into sportscasting, and spent
even longer in that field, putting in nearly a quarter century broadcasting Cincinnati Reds games.
Waite Charles Hoyt was born in Brooklyn, New York on September 9, 1899. The Hoyts were in fact longtime residents of Brooklyn.
Waite’s father had been in the clothing business, but switched his employment to Swift and Company when it appeared that there
was little opportunity for advancement with the firm of L. Heller and Sons. Kids growing up in Brooklyn in those days developed an
early interest in baseball and Waite was no exception. At first he wanted to be a second baseman (an early idol was Larry Doyle of
the Giants), but soon afterward became a pitcher because his original team lacked uniforms, but another unit that had them needed
someone who could throw hard. On such mature judgement, great decisions are sometimes made.
Young Hoyt soon proved himself to be a hard thrower and soon attracted attention from professional scouts. The Baltimore Federal
League team showed an interest in 1915. However, the parents objected to him leaving home at fifteen and he did not sign although
he did sign with the hometown New York Giants prior to his sixteenth birthday and ended the season pitching batting practice for
John McGraw’s National League team.
The next season as a sixteen year old, the youth divided his time between Mt. Carmel in the Penn State League and Hartford of the
Eastern League compiling impressive won-lost records of 5-1 and 4-5, respectively. Apparently his control could have been better in
Connecticut as he walked forty-four batters while striking out only half that number. Two more years in the minors saw the still
teenaged hurler dividing his time between the Southern League and the International. While his won-lost record appeared
unfavorable his earned run averages were quite good, being 3.23 during a stint at Memphis and a much stronger 2.51, 2.73 and
2.10 at the other locales. In between longer service at Nashville and Newark in 1918, the eighteen year old Hoyt made his major
league debut on July 24, 1918, pitching one inning for the Giants giving up no hits and striking out two batters. The Giants
subsequently traded Hoyt to Rochester of the International League, but he refused to report and not being under contract to them,
instead started 1919 pitching for the independent Baltimore Drydocks.
This made him a virtual “free agent,” and in mid-season he signed with the Boston Red Sox with the stipulation that he be allowed to
start a game within four days. Manager Ed Barrow thought this was a “fresh” demand for a teenager, but he honored it and Hoyt
soon started a game against Detroit and beat them 2-1 in twelve innings. Waite went 4-6 that year and 6-6 in 1920. On December
15, 1920, the now twenty-one year-old hurler was traded to the New York Yankees as part of an eight player deal and climb to
baseball greatness really began.
Waite Hoyt spent nearly a full decade with the Bronx Bombers and made most of his major achievements with that club. Having the
advantage of a strong team behind him, Hoyt, along with such noted figures as Herb Pennock and Carl Mays (both Masons),
managed to be on six pennant winning teams in that period and compile an enviable Word Series record of 6-3 and pitching 27
innings in the 1921 post season game without giving up an earned run (he did give up two unearned runs in the final game, suffering
a heartbreaking loss). He also had several strong seasons in this period as well, winning an excess of twenty games in two seasons
(1927 and 1928), and nineteen in two other seasons (1921 and 1922). Over his nine full seasons with the club, he averaged
seventeen wins per season. Should anyone be surprised that he once quipped, “The secret of success is to play for the New York
Yankees.”
During the course of his 1927 season when the Yankees had perhaps the greatest team in the game’s history, Waite Hoyt also
became a Mason in Kings County Lodge No. 511 in his native Brooklyn. Taking his degrees over the course of the season, he
was initiated an Entered Apprentice on April 19, 1927 (a day when Bob Shawkey took a 1-0 loss to the Red Sox); passed a
Fellowcraft on June 29, 1927 (George Pipgras pitched his team to an 8-2 victory over the Red Sox); and raised a Master Mason on
September 27, 1927 (the Yanks took Washington 15-5 behind the pitching of Urban Shocker). Other Masons on that team
included center fielder, Earl Combs, and left-handed pitcher, Herb Pennock. Bro. Hoyt apparently became a member of the
Tall Cedars of Lebanon as he was so pictured in a charity game they sponsored. On October 18, 1929, Hoyt affiliated with
Larchmont Lodge No. 1030 and dimitted from Kings County eleven days later.
After going 22-7 in that fabulous year, Hoyt did as well in 1928 going 23-7. In three World Series appearances in those great
seasons, he won three games. In 1929, however, he experienced an off-year going 10-9 while the Yankees lost the pennant to a
resurging Philadelphia team. In addition Miller Huggins died near the season’s end and on
May 30, 1930 Waite Hoyt and shortstop Mark Koenig were traded to the Detroit Tigers. In
the Motor City, he recovered some of his older skills, going 9-8 for the remainder of the
season, but his ERA jumped to 4.73. After starting off even worse in 1931, the once superb
hurler compiled a 3-8 record and the Tigers placed him on waivers in June. Connie Mack
hoped that the one time “Schoolboy” could help the Athletics who were in the thick of
another pennant race and his hunch proved correct. Waite went 10-5 in the remainder of
1931, but lost the fifth game of the World Series 5-1 for his final appearance in the Fall
Classic.
Mack would have signed Hoyt again in 1932, but agreed instead to give the veteran pitcher
his release so he could sign with his hometown team, the Dodgers. That proved to be a
mistake in mid-season he went to the Giants. Overall his 1932 record was 6-10 and his ERA
was 4.35 In many respects it was the lowpoint of his career as he had posted at least ten
victories in every season since first coming to the Yankees in December 1920. In a
retrospective interview in 1976, the Hall of Fame pitcher credited this weak performance to
domestic difficulties. In the Summer of 1931, Hoyt testified in a divorce case on behalf of his
former Yankee team mate “Jumping Joe” Dugan. Waite’s wife Dorothy Pyle Hoyt testified for
127

Mrs. Dugan and not long after went to Reno to establish a Nevada residence herself. On May 12, 1933, Waite who had signed with
the Pittsburgh Pirates a few months earlier, married again to Ellen Burbank. It may have been a more stable home life that did it, but
whatever, Hoyt found himself again in Pittsburgh. In four full seasons and part of another with the Bucs Brother Hoyt recovered part
of his old form and proved himself an effective spot-starter and reliever. His best year with the Pirates was 1934 when he went 15-6
with a 2.92 ERA. In all, his days in Pittsburgh show his win-loss totals at 35-31, hardly up to his old form, but respectable. Released
by the Pirates in June 1937, the Dodgers again signed him and he went 7-7 in 38 appearances, posting a 3.23 ERA. However a half
dozen ineffective appearances in 1938 with three losses and no victories, the now thirty-eight year old aging “Schoolboy” hung up
his glove for major league play, but pitched in several games for the semi-pro Brooklyn Bushwicks. In all, his major league pitching
record was 237-182 with a 3.59 ERA. In addition he went 6-4 in World Series play with a 1.81 ERA.
Waite Hoyt had several experiences with show business having once toured with a vaudeville act in the off-season, but had also
hosted a short term radio program as early as 1937. He decided to opt for a future in radio, he hosted a variety of pre-and-post
game shows in New York until January 1942, when the Burger Brewing Company of Cincinnati hired him to be a play-by-play
announcer for Reds games. From 1948 through 1954, those Reds game that were televised also had the advantage of Hoyt’s
announcing work. He remained at this position for twenty-four years becoming a favorite with fans who in addition to his fine
coverage of the games was virtually unparalleled in being able to draw on his years of experience and discuss them during rain
delays. In the winter months, Hoyt often had a television sports program, The Waite Hoyt Hall of Fame, where he interviewed
various celebrity athletes including Rio Grande College basketball legend Bevo Francis.
In the early sixties, a long play album of his stories titled The Best of Waite Hoyt in the Rain was released and eagerly sold to his
many fans. Hoyt was especially in prime form in discussing his many experiences with the legendary Babe Ruth, his team mate on
the great Yankee assemblages of the roaring twenties. In fact, he also proved a valuable oral source to both amateur and
professional baseball historians. In fact, Frank Graham who wrote The New York Yankees in 1943 is supposed to have shared his
royalties with Hoyt who contributed most of the information on the 1921-1930 era. He also contributed to other works of baseball
history as a source of information including the lengthy introduction to G. H. Fleming’s Murderer’s Row: The 1927 New York
Yankees (1985), which he completed only a few months before his own death in 1984.
Waite Hoyt retired after the 1965 season because Burger Brewing lost the radio broadcasting franchise. (in those days, the
broadcasters were employed by the sponsors; today they are employed by the ball club). However, in 1972 he came back as coannouncer
on the telecasts and then retired for good. However, he continued to be well known in the Cincinnati area. According to
Sir Knight Norman Lincoln of Eaton, Ohio he never charged for his services when he spoke to Masonic groups--which is ironic
because according to the records of the Grand Lodge of New York, he had been suspended for non-payment of dues on November
19, 1935 (does anyone know if he held later lodge membership in another state?). Elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1969,
Hoyt later served on the Veteran’s Committee for Hall of Fame selection. He remained an honored statesman of the game until his
death in Cincinnati on August 25, 1984. The Brooklynite had been a resident of the Queen City for half of his life.
Note: The best source of information on Waite Hoyt is the interview in Eugene C. Murdock, Baseball Between the Wars (Meckler,
1992), pp. 23-62 as well as Frank Graham, The New York Yankees (Putnam, 1943) and G. H. Fleming, Murderers’ Row (Morrow,
1985). Thanks also to the staff at the Grand Lodge of New York and to Sir Knight Norman Lincoln of Eaton, Ohio and Sir Knight
Peter Westbere of Guelph, Ontario for pictures.
----
R. William Morton
http://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2011/Warrensburg%20NY%20Lake%20George%20News/Warrensburg%20NY%20Lake%20G
eorge%20News%201983-1984%20Grayscale/Warrensburg%20NY%20Lake%20George%20News%201983-
1984%20Grayscale%20-%200213.pdf
Warrtiwburg-Lake George News, Weds. April 20, 1983
Masons to host district visitation
Warrensburg Chapter 325, Royal Arch Masons will host the Grand Chapter visitation to the Fourteenth Capitular District at the
convocation of Tuesday, April 26 [1983] in the Masonic Temple at 8:00 p.m. R. William Morton of Larchmont, New York, Grand
Master of the First Weil, will be the official visitor. Mr. Morton is a Past Master of Apawamis Lodge 800, Free and Accepted
Masons and a member of Larchmont Lodge 1030. A past high priest of Westchester-Tabernacle Chapter 306, R.A.M.; he served
as district deputy grand high priest of the Fifth Capitular District. He is also a member of Phoenix Council 70, Cryptic Rite Masons
and Bethlehem-Crusader Commandery 53, Knights Templar. Also active in the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Valley of White
Plains he has been master of the Lodge of Perfection; master of the Chapter of Rose Croix and is currently commander in chief of
the Consistory. He holds membership in the Royal Order of Scotland; Kismet Temple Shrine and the Royal Order of Jesters.
New Rochelle Lodge No. 1033, New Rochelle Lodge New York
Warrant: ca 1924
Van Cortlandt Lodge No. 1034, Tarrytown, New York
Warrant: ca 1924
Website: http://www.vancortlandtlodge.com/htm/main.htm very minimal information.
128

Hawthorne Lodge No. 1040, Yonkers, New York
Warrant: ca 1924
Master, Wor. Leslie Sutherland, a Past Master of Nepperhan Lodge [q.v.].
Celebrated their 50th Anniversary in 1975.
Vernon Lodge No. 1055, Mount Vernon, New York
Warrant: ca 1926
http://www.nyjnews.com/obituary/obit.php3?id=829633
Frank Z. Johansmeyer died at the age of 92 on August 1 [2002]. Mr. Johansmeyer was born in the Edenwald section of the Bronx
in 1909 and was the last surviving child of Adolf and Martha Johansmeyer. A long-time Mt. Vernon resident, he taught sheet metal
trades at Aviation High School in Queens. Upon retiring in 1975, Mr. Johansmeyer moved to Texas with his wife, the former Alice
Larson. Mrs. Johansmeyer died in 1998 in the 65th year of their marriage. Mr. Johansmeyer is survived by a daughter, Thelma
Oakley, of Ancramdale, NY, a son, Frank E. Johansmeyer, of Mt. Vernon, and three grandsons, Kurt and Douglas Oakley and
William Johansmeyer. A Mason for 69 years, he was Past Master of the Vernon Lodge 1055 F. & A.M. in Mt. Vernon. A memorial
service was held August 26 in the chapel of the Masonic Geriatric Health Care Center in Wallingford, CT, where Mr. Johansmeyer
died.
Dunderberg Lodge No. 1070, Peeksill, New York
Warrant: ca 1926
http://www.fraternitydunderberg.com/HIST2.PDF
Dunderberg Lodge No. 1070 was formed by a group of Fraternity Lodge No. 942 who lived in the Peekskill area. The first meeting
was held on January 14, 1926 in Peekskill. Immediate past Grand Master M.’.W.’.William A. Rowan along with a delegation of
Grand line officers opened the Lodge, presented the new charter and consecrated the Lodge. After a recess past DDGM
R.’.W.’.Walter Johnstone with the assistance of Brother Samuel James Alterman as temporary secretary and R.’.W.’.Walter
Faucher, past DDGM, as temporary Marshall, installed the following officers:
RW Louis E. Keller Master
Bro. Charles Blank Sr. Warden
Bro. Samuel D. Hartstein Jr. Warden
Bro. S. James Alterman Secretary
Bro. Lewis Kornhouser Treasurer
Bro. Irving M. Grossman Sr. Deacon
Bro. Frederick N. Weston Jr. Deacon
Bro. Isador Vogel Sr. M. Ceremony
Bro. William Karpf Jr. M. Ceremony
Bro. David Slutsky Sr. Steward
Bro. Samuel Poritsky Jr. Steward
Bro. Martin Weiss Marshall
Bro. Charles Weller Chaplain
W Addison W. Brown Tiler
Thanks was given to Courtlandt Lodge No. 34 for permitting the new Lodge to meet in their Masonic Hall. 29 Brothers paid $10
dues. $8 was spent on the caterer and $100 paid to Grand Lodge, leaving an initial balance of $182. The initiation fee was set at
$75. Like Fraternity Lodge No. 942, membership grew to over 100 by the 1950s. Thereafter membership declined. By 1978 both
Lodes were actively pursuing merger possibilities. . . . After several meetings it was agreed that the two lodges would merge and
that the merged Lodge would bear the name Fraternity-Dunderberg Lodge No. 942. On November 26, 1980 the merger was
approved by the Committee on Charters and Fraternity-Dunderberg Lodge No. 942 [q,v, for list of Masters of Dunderberg No. 1070].
The Lodge was constituted on May 5, 1981.
Siwanoy Lodge No. 1086, New Rochelle, New York
Warrant: ca 1928
http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/1994-04-16/news/9404160197_1_memorial-mass-pompano-beach-cemetery-funeral/5
Philip C., Kramer 67, of Delray Beach, formerly of Greenwich, CT, died April 14, 1994 in Boca Raton. Mr. Kramer was a Past
Master of Siwanoy Lodge No. 1086, F&AM of NY. Husband of, Cynthia Kramer; father of Robert (Rachel) Kramer; grandfather of,
Sasha; son-in-law of Mildred Wellman and brother of Louis Kramer.
Harrison Lodge No. 1093, Harrison, New York
Warrant: ca 1929; listedin 2000 Proceedings, but not as of 2010.
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_2_E_to_J.htm
Charles Harwood (1880-1950) Governor of Virgin Islands, 1941. Federal Judge of Canal Zone, 1937. b. May 24, 1880 in Brooklyn,
NY. He was graduated from the New York Law School and was admitted to the bar in 1904. He practiced in New York City until
1935, when he became special assistant to the U.S. attorney general for two years. Raised in Marchants Lodge No. 709, Brooklyn,
April 18, 1907; became dual member of Harrison Lodge No. 1093, Feb. 2, 1949. Received 32° AASR (NJ), May 24, 1907, and
joined Kismet Shrine Temple, May 31, 1907. d. Oct. 23, 1950.
http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/10,000_famous_freemasons/Volume_4_Q_to_Z.htm
Benjamin I. Taylor (1877-1946) U.S. Congressman to 63rd Congress, 1913-15, from 25th NY dist. b. Dec. 21, 1877 in New York.
Graduate of Columbia U. Law School in 1899. Began practice at Port Chester, NY, in same year. Received degrees in Mamaro
129

Lodge No. 653, Port Chester, NY, Jan. 25, Feb. 8 & 25, 1904. Dimitted in 1928 to become a member of Harrison Lodge No. 1093,
Harrison, NY, June 5, 1928. d. Sept. 5, 1946.
http://www.nyjnews.com/obituary/obit.php3?id=137327
Arthur "Artie" Tomlinson died 9 Nov 1999, age 79. Artie was born on 16 Nov 1919, in England, to Fred and Beatrice Thorp
Tomlinson. He was predeceased by his wife Jean (Muir) who died in 1988. He was a veteran of World War II. He served as the
Master of the Harrison Lodge No. 1093 and also as a patron to the Harrison Chapter 789 O.E.S. He won the Dedicated Service
Award from each of these two organizations and also Mason of the year. He is survived by a son, Arthur Tomlinson of Scarsdale; a
daughter, Patricia Frohlich of Harrison; a brother, Raymond Tomlinson of Harrison; six grandchildren, Ray, Anthony, Albert,
Jennifer, Michelle, and Craig; two great grandchildren, Edward and Jamie Rose; and many nieces and nephews.
Scarsdale Lodge No. 1094, Scarsdale, New York
Warrant: ca 1929
Stephen McKee, Past Master; living in Northern Ireland, as of May 2008.
http://www.anb.org/articles/10/10-02276-print.html
Sidney Weinberg. October 1942.
Sidney James Weinberg, (12 Oct 1891-23 Jul 1969), investment banker and
presidential adviser and administrator, was born in Brooklyn's Red Hook section, as the
son of Sophie Barr Weinberg and Pincus Weinberg, a wholesale liquor dealer. As a
boy, he attended Brooklyn Public School 13 and at age ten held several part-time jobs.
In 1901 he sold newspapers at the Brooklyn ferry station, peeled oysters, and served
as a deliverer for a millinery firm. In 1906 the young Weinberg acquired his first
experience in the investment world, working first as a broker's runner and then as a
helper for two brokers. Having come from a poor family and having wished to improve
his plight in life, Weinberg quit school in the eighth grade and went to work full time.
During the 1907 Panic, he worked at the Trust Company of America: he stationed
himself near the teller's window and charged five dollars to each customer in line
attempting to withdraw their money. Weinberg, who also completed a course in
penmanship at Browne's Business College in Brooklyn in 1907, went to work that year
for three dollars per week as an assistant to the janitor and porter of the investment firm
of Goldman Sachs. Slowly ascending the ladder in this firm, he received a promotion as
an office boy in the partners' room; he filled the inkwells for the firm's partners and its
founders, Henry Goldman and Sam Sachs, who referred to him as "boy." Weinberg
also met Paul Sachs, the son of the firm's founder, who encouraged him to pursue an
education and gave him twenty-five dollars to take a night school course at New York
University. During World War I, he left Goldman Sachs; in 1917 he served as a cook in the navy and was transferred the same year
to naval intelligence and inspected cargoes in Norfolk, Virginia.
After the war, Weinberg resumed his career with Goldman Sachs. In 1919 he became a salesman of commercial paper; for this
position he was paid twenty-eight dollars per week and proved that he could aggressively sell securities and establish new
accounts. Weinberg received a pay raise in 1920, and he married Helen Livingston that year, the daughter of a successful apparel
manufacturer. The couple lived in Scarsdale, New York, and had two sons: Sidney Weinberg Jr., who would become an executive of
Owens-Corning-Fiberglass and who later became a partner at Goldman Sachs, and John Weinberg, who also worked for Goldman
Sachs and was later named a partner at the firm. In 1968, approximately a year after the death of his first wife, Weinberg married
the photographer Regina Pierce and resided with her at a suite in the Sherry-Netherlands Hotel until his death.
Between 1921 and 1927 Weinberg developed into a knowledgeable financier. He was a shrewd underwriter and especially exhibited
astuteness in the placement of corporate bonds for Sears Roebuck, May Department Stores, Proctor and Gamble, and other
leading Goldman clients. Consequently, Weinberg increased his commissions, which began at one-eighth of a percent and by the
late 1920s climbed to thirty-three percent for his securities transactions. In 1925, as his business expanded, he purchased a seat on
the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) for $140,000 and thereafter augmented his profits. As a result of his successes in investment
banking, in 1927 Weinberg was named a partner at Goldman Sachs, the second person from outside of either family to achieve this
status.
During the next five years Weinberg concentrated on matters concerning the Goldman Sachs Trading Company. After Waddill
Catchings, an aggressive Goldman partner, established the Trading company in 1928, Weinberg worked with him and was named
that year as its treasurer. By September of 1929, this investment trust had generated huge commissions for Weinberg and had
reached a price of $326 per share. When the stock market crashed in October of that year, Weinberg and Catchings encountered
serious problems: the price of this investment trust sank to $1.75 per share. When Catchings failed to resolve the trust's problems,
in 1930 Weinberg persuaded him to resign from the firm and began to liquidate about $13 million of Goldman's assets in order to
pay off creditors. Three years later, he sold the remnants of GSTC to Floyd Odlum's Atlas Corporation, enabling the trust's
shareholders to salvage $8.00 for each $100 investment. Along with other members of Goldman, Weinberg greatly suffered and
until the late 1930s was required to use profits from commissions to pay off the firm's debt obligations from this failed investment.
During the early 1930s he devoted considerable attention to Depression-related matters. Viewing himself as a "practical Democrat,"
Weinberg, who backed Franklin Delano Roosevelt's victorious 1932 presidential campaign and his three subsequent ones, assisted
the president by proffering advice about provisions concerning the 1933 Securities Act, which required full disclosure of securities
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that were to be offered. That same year, he established the Business Advisory Council. This agency, which functioned under the
Department of Commerce, enabled industrial, business, and financial executives to voice their thoughts to government leaders
about specific policies and legislation required to boost the American economy.
Between 1935 and 1939 Weinberg likewise worked diligently to revive the reputation and status of Goldman Sachs. He became a
director of such major corporations as General Foods, Cluett Peabody, and General Electric. By carefully studying the reports of
these and numerous other corporations, he proffered prudent advice, secured the respect of corporate executives, and was
perceived as "the Directors' Director" (Kahn). Weinberg was also lauded as a corporate director, for he wrote a memorandum during
the early 1930s about the ethical responsibilities of corporate board directors and in 1938 denounced Donald Coster, who was
president of McKesson and Robbins, for stealing $21 million from this company. After this vexatious incident, during the
Depression's last years Weinberg participated in syndicates that sold bonds and common stock for National Dairy Products and for
B. F. Goodrich. By 1939 Weinberg was the primary impetus in developing Goldman Sachs into one of the fifteen leading firms on
Wall Street.
Weinberg assumed significant responsibilities in the federal government during World War II. From 1941 to 1942 he headed the
Bureau of Clearance of Defense Advisory Committee, which was attached to the Office of Production Management Council. His
agency was empowered to solicit orders for the government from industrial and business executives and to submit their bids to the
council's leaders. After Pearl Harbor, the War Production Board replaced this council and was headed by Donald M. Nelson, the
executive of Sears Roebuck. Between 1942 and 1943 Weinberg, who had been on Sears Roebuck's board, served as an assistant
on the War Production Board. As a dollar-a-year man, he was responsible for reviewing industrial and business contracts that
involved aluminum, steel, rubber, and other materials needed for conducting the war. When tensions arose in 1943 between
industrial and military leaders about reconversion matters in the American economy following the war, Weinberg opposed Nelson's
promilitary and gradualist stance: he supported rather an accelerated return to an industrialized civilian economy. Later that year
Charles "Electric" Wilson, who had been president of General Electric, was appointed by Roosevelt as the War Production Board's
executive vice chairman. In 1944 he named Weinberg as a vice chairman of this board. In holding this position for less than a year,
Weinberg backed efforts to encourage the production of nonmilitary goods and to bolster the growth of the private sector.
In 1945, as a member of General Electric's board, Weinberg endorsed Wilson's reorganization plan. In 1946 Weinberg began to
underwrite millions of dollars of stock and bond issues for the company to achieve its massive industrial and global expansion
program.
Weinberg had another important connection to Wilson. With the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950, President Harry Truman, upon
Weinberg's suggestion, appointed Wilson as head of the Office of Defense Mobilization in 1951. That same year Weinberg accepted
the position of deputy adviser of this office. Occupying this post for less than a year, he was authorized to review policies regarding
industrial priorities and regulations and those regarding wage and price controls during the war.
In 1952, discouraged by the economic and industrial policies of the Democrats, Weinberg backed the Republican candidate, Dwight
David Eisenhower: he was named as treasurer of the Citizens for Eisenhower and Nixon and succeeded in raising approximately
$1.7 million for their election. After this victory, George Humphrey, who was Weinberg's choice to be Secretary of the Treasury,
occupied this position and proved to be supportive of the nation's leadership in industry and in finance.
Also in 1952 Weinberg played a central role in an important corporate undertaking concerning the Owens-Corning Corporation. Its
president was Harold Boeschenstein, a friend who had worked with him on the War Production Board. Knowing that this private
company had two separate boards of directors and that antitrust regulations restricted it from securing needed funding, Weinberg
arranged a deal with George Keith Funston, who was president of the NYSE: Owens-Corning was allowed to go public and was to
offer 20 percent rather than the Exchange's minimal amount of 50 percent of the company's common stock. As a result of his efforts,
Weinberg headed a syndicate that floated $22.5 million in common stock. He succeeded in selling all of the company's stock within
a matter of several hours, accrued $860,000 in commissions for the syndicate's underwriters, and was to effect the largest
transaction of the NYSE in twenty years.
Two years later Weinberg assisted in bringing about the merger of Warner-Hudnot, which made cosmetics and liniment, and the
Lambert Company, maker of Listerine. Adhering to his style of corporate diplomacy and realizing that the common stock of Warner-
Hudnot was worth $8 more than that of Lambert, he persuaded executives from both firms to consent to an equitable one for one
stock offering and thus brought about a friendly and a viable merger. For his efforts, he received a 15 percent commission and
continued to enhance his reputation in investment banking.
In 1956 Weinberg was involved with a milestone in American financial history. For two years, he had worked secretly to restructure
the Ford Motor Company: Weinberg, whose code name was "Edith," submitted approximately fifty reorganization plans to Henry
Ford II, who was known as "Alice." Knowing that the firm's foundation had eighty-eight percent of the company's nonvoting shares
and that the Ford family owned ten percent of the voting shares and also received the company's dividends, Weinberg developed a
plan that was acceptable to the family, to foundation trustees, and to NYSE leaders, who had insisted that its publicly traded
companies be empowered with voting rights. In January of that year, Weinberg directed a syndicate to list Ford Motor Company on
the Exchange, quickly sold $650 million of its stock at $64.50 per share, and was paid an estimated fee of about $1 million.
Weinberg became highly acclaimed, for he and Goldman Sachs were involved with the nation's largest public underwriting.
In 1958 Weinberg was the prime underwriter of another significant offering. While the bond market was rather flat in September of
that year, Weinberg underwrote $350 million of debentures for Sears Roebuck, a firm on whose board he had served until 1953. He
sold these debentures to yield 4.75 percent and perfectly priced this yield just slightly higher than those of other companies.
Weinberg's offering was of great significance, for it was at that time the largest debenture flotation in American investment history.
Other significant developments were associated with Weinberg's career during the 1960s. He supported the 1960 presidential
campaign of John F. Kennedy. After Kennedy's victory, Weinberg suggested the appointment of Henry W. Fowler as Undersecretary
of the Treasury, for he had worked with Fowler on the War Production Board. In 1962, along with Fowler, Weinberg endorsed
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Kennedy's plans for sizeable tax reductions to stimulate the economy: Weinberg approved of lowering taxes by $11.5 billion for
individuals, of reducing taxes by $2.5 billion for corporations, and of cutting tax rates of corporations from 52 percent to 47 percent.
In response to this $13.5 billion tax proposal, in early 1963 Congress blocked its passage. However, Lyndon B. Johnson, who
became president following Kennedy's assassination that year, succeeded in early 1964 in having Congress pass an $11.5 billion
tax reduction bill and in greatly accelerating economic expansion. Weinberg backed Johnson's 1964 victorious presidential
campaign and made recommendations about two key cabinet positions: Henry Fowler became Secretary of the Treasury, and John
T. Connor served until 1967 as Secretary of Commerce.
During this booming economic era, Weinberg played a prominent role in leading a syndicate headed by Goldman Sachs that sold
1.15 million shares of Alcan Aluminum stock. This offering was valued at $26.5 million and became the largest equity block
transaction to be made until that time. In 1968 Weinberg backed Democrat Hubert H. Humphrey for president, who lost to Richard
M. Nixon.
In 1946 President Harry Truman honored Weinberg with the United States Medal of Merit for his administrative leadership roles in
the federal government during World War II. This medal was the highest military honor that could be granted to a civilian. Moreover,
Weinberg had been a member of the New York City Bond Club. He also rendered assistance to Jewish causes: he served on the
American Jewish Committee and on the Federation of Jewish Philanthropies. Weinberg also belonged to Scarsdale Masonic
Lodge No. 1094. He was a board member of New York's Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital. After a short illness at age seventyseven,
he died in the hospital.
Weinberg's career illustrates the validity of the rags-to-riches legend. Having started on the bottom at Goldman Sachs, he climbed to
the top. He sat on thirty-five corporate boards and proffered sagacious advice to his executive clients about their financial projects.
By engaging in huge debt and equity transactions, Weinberg, who became known as "Mr. Wall Street," succeeded in developing
Goldman Sachs into one of America's premier investment houses. Weinberg, whose personal fortune was estimated to be about $4
million, recruited executives from America's largest corporations to render assistance and leadership to their government during two
significant wars. Weinberg was also among the first Jews to enter the American political establishment.
Hastings Lodge No. 1107, Hastings-on-Hudson, New York
Warrant: ca 1931
Merged with Rising Sun No. 450 in 1989
Valiant Lodge No. 1113, Port Chester, New York
Warrant: ca 1931
http://themcmillangroupltd.com/w3w2/pdfs/111_2005_07-24%20WW-N-W%20Weekly%20Wreader.pdf
EVAN P. CUNNINGHAM - (Ev, to some; Pop to his family) Owner of one of the oldest
Auto Body shop in Connecticut. Evan was born on Thanksgiving Day, November 28,
1918 in the house in which he still lives in, at 74 North Water Street. He is a graduate
of Greenwich High School, Class of 1936. In his senior year at Greenwich High, he
was awarded the letter G for golf. In June of 1929, Evan's father purchased a summer
home in Hill and Dale Country Club, Carmel, NY (as Evan's mother needed to be in the
country due to severe Asthma). Evan, even as a child loved golf. He won the Hill and
Dale Country Club Children's Championship in 1930 and the Club Championship in
1938. In 1939 he won the Mahopac, NY Open Championship for 2nd Flight.
Tournament 1939 Winner, Fifth flight. A member Guest winner in 1969 also at
Apawamis. As a member of Tamarack Country Club since 1969, Evan has also added
to his love of the game by winning the Club Championship runner up Member Guest
Tournament in 1976; in 1987 taking the prize of 6th Flight Runner up; In 1996 a Flight
winner in the Club Championship and in 1998 being Runner Up of the Member Guest,
and in 1997 also being a Flight winner. Over the years, he also has had the privilege of
playing many of the loveliest courses in Westchester and Fairfield counties, taking
home many awards.
Evan served in the Navy Coast Guard from 1942 - 1945, where he was a Motor
Machinist Mate 2nd Class. He was awarded the American Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal and Victory Medal. In December
1947 Evan joined Harry Howard Hook and Ladder Company No. 1 of the Port Chester Fire Department and rose through the ranks,
achieving the position of Captain in 1964. Then president. He was a member of the Westchester Fire Square Club. He was also the
Co-chairman for the Centennial of the Port Chester Fire Department in 1958. He became a Member of the Order of DeMolay,
earning his degree in December of 1935. Evan was also a member of Valiant Lodge No. 1113 and a Past Master in 1969. He was
also a life member of the Southern Fairfield County Auto Body Shop Association.
During the years, Evan bowled for Port Chester Mamaro No. 2 from 1955 to 1975 at the Rye Ridge Bowling Alleys. He was also a
member of the fraternal order of Elks and was a member until 1950. He continues to attend weekly meetings of the 40/40 Club
where he has been a member for many years. Another love of Evan's was boating and fishing during the 1950's. He and his family
enjoyed weekends at Great Captains Island. Evan's fishing buddies are sure to remember the fishing trips (in the black of night),
only when the tide was "right," trolling around Calf's Island, Great Captain's and the "shelf" off of Rye. And, oh, those trips to
Montauk.....
132

Two fires, one in 1928 and the other in 1939 left Grover C. Cunningham Auto Body (established in 1914 by his father) burned to the
ground. Evan helped rebuild what is now a Four Generation Family Business. Evan's son Bruce and his grandson Gary, now run
one of the oldest Auto Body businesses in Fairfield County. Over the years, this family owned business has been the subject of
many newspaper articles in The Greenwich Time and the New York Daily News.
Evan was married to Jane Mead Cunningham (deceased) and has two children, Bruce Cunningham and his wife Lynn and Judith
Flood. He was the loving grandfather of Bruce Cunningham and his wife Mary Beth, Gary Cunningham and his wife Debbie, and
Melissa Valenti and her husband Aaron, and great-grandfather of Kevin, Kaitlyn and Kristian Cunningham and Alexis Grace Valenti.
He is also survived by his niece Margaret Litwak of Stamford, CT. He was interred at Greenwood Union Cemetery Rye, NY [2005].
Sleepy Hollow Lodge No. 1136, Tarrytown, New York
Warrant: ca 1951
Yorktown Lodge No. 1154, Mt. Kisco, New York
Constituted: 16 May 1957
Lodge Website: http://www.yorktownlodge.com/special/htm/main.htm. This website has very little on it.
http://articles.courant.com/1995-06-06/news/9506060280_1_rona-scott-m-packer-enfield
Leonard Packer, 65, of Enfield, beloved husband of Rona (Newman) Packer, died Sunday (June 4, 1995) at his home. Born in
Brooklyn, N.Y., he had lived in Enfield for many years. He worked 33 years for United Technologies Research Center in East
Hartford, retiring in 1992 as Chief of Environmental Engineering. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict, and
a member of the Yorktown Lodge No. 1154 F&AM, Croton-On-Hudson, N.Y. Along with his wife, Rona, he leaves three daughters,
Wendy Cooper of North Haven, Stacy Packer of San Diego, Calif., and Jennifer Packer of Zephyrhills, Fla.; a son, Scott M. Packer
of Watertown; his stepmother, Sacha Pecker of Florida; two brothers, Arnold, and Harvey; a sister, Cecille, all of New York City.
Briarcliff Lodge No. 1155, Croton-on-Hudson, New York
Warrant:
----
Putnam County
Phillipstown Lodge No. 12, Cold Spring, New York
Warrant: 1847
St. John's Grand Lodge number.
In the 1851 [Dec 1850) renumbering Phillipstown lost its No. 12 and received present No. 236 [q.v.]
Columbus {Columbia] Lodge No. 38, South East, New York
Warrant: 4 Aug 1794
ref. Grand Lodge Proceedings, Vol. I, page 148: New York, March 5th, 5794: “A petition from David Crosbry and others, for a
warrant to erect and hold a Lodge at Fredricktown, in the County of Dutchess, by the name of Columbus Lodge, was read, but
as it was not accompanied with the recommendation required by a resolve of this Grand Lodge,the consideration of its merits
was postponed till the next regular meeting.”
Ibid. page151: “New York, June 4th, 5794. “The petition of David Crosby and others, for a warrant to erect and hold a Lodge at
Fredericktown, in the County of Dutchess, by the name of Columbus Lodge, together with the recommendation attending it,
were then read; and, on motion, a warrant was ordered to be issued . . .”
Ibid. page 205. New York, June 7th 5797. “Received a communication from Columbus Lodge No. 38, held at Fredericktwon, in
the County of Dutchess, informing of the expulsion of Peter Hepburn from said Lodge, which was ordered to be filed.”
Ibid. Vol. II, page 67. List of Lodges. Columbus Lodge No. 38, South East, Putnam; Warrant 4 Aug 1794; Dues paid 1 Jun 1817.
Ibid. Vol. II, page 172. Return June 1817 to June 1818. $12.75.
Ibid. Vol. II, page 93. New York, June 2d, 5819. Lodges present by their proxies. Columbus No. 38. P. Crosby.
Ibid. Vol. II, page 300.Return. June 1, 1819 to June 1, 1820. $15.25.
http://books.google.com/books?id=0ac2AAAAMAAJ&pg=PA263&dq=%22horizontal+Lodge%22+%22carmel%22&hl=en&ei=i3HxTa
7NKIrX0QGi4qHZBA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CDkQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=%22horizontal%20Lodge
%22%20%22carmel%22&f=false page 264.
Columbus Lodge.
R. W. Hart Wad[e?], M.
W. William Crawford, SW.
W. Stephen Barnum, JW. [d. 12 Jul 1825, aged 61; m. in Southeast, NY Sarah Doane, b. 16 Aug 1768 in Yarmouth,
Barnstable, MA; d. 11 Jul 1841 in Seneca Falls, Seneca, NY,
d/o Reuben Doane and Ruth Chapman. Child: Reuben, Joshua, Sarah, Adah.]
Archibald Sears. [b. 08 Aug 1780 Carmel, NY; d. 27 Oct 1864; son of Thomas Sears and Deborah Balwin;
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m. 25 Jan 1829 Polly Sellick b. 11 Jul 1798 Southeast, NY]
http://books.google.com/books?id=YaRRAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA279&lpg=PA279&dq=%22Archibald+
Sears%22+%22sellick%22&source=bl&ots=jCeF1ZHblL&sig=cQ5MwJAeYZKaEcAGD4FYr3QVZqo&hl
=en&ei=LzfyTcTHGqnj0QGEionpCw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=6&ved=0CEkQ6AEwB
Q#v=onepage&q=%22Archibald%20Sears%22%20%22sellick%22&f=false page 279.
ARCHIBALD SEARS [Thos.5, Jas.4, Silas3, Silas2, Rich.1], b. Carmel, NY, 8 Aug 1780; d. South
East, NY, 27 Oct 1864, ae. 84yrs. 2 mos. 19 days; m. there, 25 Jan 1829, Polly Sellick, d/o Jesse
S., she b. there, 11 Jul 1798; d. 26 May 1868, ae. 69 yrs. 10 mos. 24 days.
Children:
i. MART E., b. Sooth East, 20 May 1830; m. Rich. T. Haviland of Patterson, NY, b. there, 23
Feb 1829;.
ii. FANNIE, b. South East, 26 May 1832; lived with sister Kate, unm.
iii. KATE, b. South East, 27 Sep 1834; m. Oct 1866, Rev. Roswel l Smith.
iv. THOMAS, b. South East, 16 Apr 1836; m. Nov 1878; Capt. 4th Heavy Arty., NY, during the
Civil war, and promoted Major, lived in Denver, CO.
Archibald Sears lived on part of the old homestead in South East, Putnam, NY, and joined the
church there at the age of 80.
Isaac Reece
Noah Bowton [Bouton] [d. 12 Jul 1812, aged 68]
Reuben Doane
Peter Crosby [d. 9 Nov 1831, aged 68y 7m 5d]
Lambert De Forest
Jack Crawford
Daniel Howes
Samuel Haviland.
The Crosby Family
“The New York Genealogical and Biographical Record,” Volume 32, by New York Genealogical and Biographical Society, page 112.
http://books.google.com/books?id=69QUAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA112&lpg=PA112&dq=%22Peter+Crosby%22+%22putnam%22&source
=bl&ots=T3bxfbWMj5&sig=TVKieQMzBndVlQEZM2Tu_c3JPPM&hl=en&ei=3QjyTd_EFax0AG1zazWCw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=9&ved=0CEwQ6AEwCA#v=onepage&q=%22Peter%20Crosby%22%20
%22putnam%22&f=false
DAVID CROSBY was born at Harwich, Mass., April 13, 1709. He was son of John and Hannah Crosby, grandson of Rev. Thomas and
Sarah Crosby, and great-grandson of Simon Crosby, of Cambridge, Mass. June 19, 1735, he married Reliance Hopkins, daughter of
Samuel and Lydia Hopkins, granddaughter of Stephen and Mary (Merrick) Hopkins, great-granddaughter of Gyles and Katherine
(Wheldon) Hopkins, he a passenger with his father, Stephen Hopkins, on the "Mayflower," 1620. Lydia Hopkins, a sister of Reliance,
was wife of Joshua Crosby, and Elizabeth Hopkins, a cousin of Reliance and Lydia, was wife of Thomas Crosby, brothers of David
Crosby. In 1749 David Crosby and family moved to Putnam (then Dutchess) County, N. Y., and settled on what was known as the
Oblong, in Southeast, where he died October 20, 1793. His tombstone and that of his wife are still standing in the Sear's Burying
Ground at Southeast, his being of white marble, with angel's face and wings at top, and bearing the inscription: "In Memory of David
Crosby the Elder who departed this life Oct. 20th 1793 in the 85th year of his age," and hers of slate stone: "In Memory of Mrs
Reliance Crosbey wife of Mr David Crosbey, who departed this life Feb 25th 1788 in the 75th year of her age." They had, certainly,
four children, and probably seven, as follows:
1. David Crosby, Jr. b. 1737, Harwich, Mass.; d. 16 Nov 1816, Southeast, NY. [see below]
Susannah Crosby b. 1740, Harwich, Mass.
Reliance Crosby b. 1742, Harwich, Mass.
2. Abner Crosby b. Dec. 25, 1744; d. 6 May 1813.
Sarah Crosby (prob.) b. at Southeast.
Eli Crosby (prob.) b. ca 1749; d. 22 Nov 1827. m. Rebecca Sears. Served in 3rd NY Regt. during the Revolution.
Moses Crosby (prob.) b. ca 1755; d. 2 Jul 1821; m1 Polly; m2 Abigail Foster. Served in 3rd NY Regt. during the Revolution.
David Crosby, Jr., b. 1737, Harwich, MA, took an active part in the affairs of the town of Southeast. He was assessor of
Fredericksburg Precinct 1774-6, 1788-90, and church moderator 1784.
He was a Mason, as shown by the following record of the first Masonic meeting at Southeast: "At a meeting of a number of
the fraternity of Masons, members of different Lodges, whose names are as follows: David Crosby, . . . Eli Crosby, . . .
Peter Crosby, . . . who are inhabitants of Frederickstown, in the County of Dutchess, and towns adjacant, . . . the 5th day of
Dec. 1793, and in the year of light 5793." "Brother David Crosby was appointed moderator of the meeting." "Voted: that
Bro. Crosby, moderator of this meeting, be empowered to make application for the warrant above mentioned" (a warrant to
erect a Lodge at Frederickstown).
"On return of 'Columbia Lodge' in 1798, the following list of members is given . . . David Crosby, Peter Crosby, ... EH
Crosby, . . . Darius Crosby, Moses Crosby,"
David Crosby enlisted during the Revolution in the Dutchess County Militia, Dykeman's Company, Third Regiment, Col. John Field,
in which regiment there appear the names of fourteen Crosbys; his uncle, Joshua Crosby, was on June 22, 1778, first lieutenant of
the company from Pawling's Precinct, Dutchess County, in Col. Field's Regiment. Although his commission has not been found, he
was known as Lieutenant David Crosby, Jr. He was twice married, and had at least seven, and perhaps twelve children. His first
wife was Bethiah Paddock, who was born in Yarmouth, Mass., April 17, 1737, daughter of Peter and Sarah (Howes) Paddock
134

(Zechariah' Zechariah,' Robert*), of Yarmouth, Mass., and Southeast, N. Y.; she is buried in the Sear's Burying Ground at
Southeast, the record of her death appearing on an old-fashioned, rudely cut granite stone, with an angel face and wings, as
follows: "In memory of Mrs Bethiah Crosby wife of Lieut David Crosby who Departed this Life July 2, 1776 M 41." (There is probably
an error in the date on her tombstone.) Some of Bethiah (Paddock) Crosby's small silver spoons, marked "B. P.," are still in
possession of her descendants. Nothing is known of his second wife, except that her name was Sally. He died Nov. 16, 1816, and is
buried in the Sear's Burying Ground at Southeast, the inscription on his tombstone, a double one of white marble, being as follows:
"In memory of David Crosby who died Nov. 16, 1816 aged 79 years. Also Bethia his wife who died July 2, 1776 aged 41 years."
His children were:
3. Thankful' Crosby, b. ca 1759-60; d. 30 Aug 1811.
4. Peter Crosby, b. ca 1763; d. 9 Nov 1831.
5. Deborah Crosby, b. 12 Sep 1767; d. 12 Mar 1853. Bethiah Crosby, b. 1769-70; d. 17 Aug 1775. Inscription on tombstone in
Sear's Burying Ground: "In memory of Bethiah Daughter of Lieut David & Mrs Bethiah Crosby who Died Aug 17, 1775 in the 6th
year of her age."
6. Sarah Crosby, b. 01 Oct 1773; d. 23 Nov 1856.
7. Bethiah Crosby (daughter of second wife), m. Daniel R. Baxter.
8. Rhoda Crosby, b. ca 1788; d. 14 Oct 1839.
William Crosby (?).
Seth Crosby(?).
Thaddeus Crosby(?).
David Crosby(?).
Thatcher Crosby(?).
Horizontal Lodge No. 85 / 82, Carmel, New York
Warrant: 4 Dec 1799
Was in 'City' Grand Lodge, but soon decamped.
http://books.google.com/books?id=0ac2AAAAMAAJ&pg=PA263&dq=%22horizontal+Lodge%22+%22carmel%22&hl=en&ei=i3HxTa
7NKIrX0QGi4qHZBA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CDkQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=%22horizontal%20Lodge
%22%20%22carmel%22&f=false page 264.
Horizontal Lodge, No, 85.
R. W. Joseph Cole, M.
W. William Sloot, SW.
W. David Kent, JW.
W. Todd, Sec.
Rev. Isaac Candy,
Enoch Crosby
Enoch was present at the Constitution of Sommers Lodge No. 506 on 15 Nov 1827 in the capacity as [acting] Senior Grand
Warden].
Ref. also: “The spy unmasked: or, Memoirs of Enoch Crosby, alias Harvey Birch, . . .,” Vol. I, by H L. Barnum, Enoch Crosby, 1829,
which may be read at:
http://books.google.com/books?id=DpgMOt1yM8cC&printsec=frontcover&dq=%22enoch+crosby%22&hl=en&ei=iE7tTaT7FcX30gH
PrrmQAQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CCoQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q&f=false and a digital copy is in the
archives of the OMDHS.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enoch_Crosby
Enoch Crosby (1750–1835) was an American soldier and spy during the Revolutionary War. His life may have been the basis for
the character Harvey Birch in James Fenimore Cooper's novel The Spy. Crosby was born in Harwich, Massachusetts on January 4,
1750, the son of Thomas and Elizabeth Crosby. His family moved to what is now Putnam County, New York when Crosby was only
an infant. The family was poor, and by 1766, Crosby set out from home to find a career. He became an apprentice shoemaker in
Kent, New York, and continued in the apprenticeship until it was completed in 1771 on his 21st birthday. When the Revolutionary
War began, he was in Danbury, Connecticut, and he immediately enlisted as a soldier. [1]
Crosby enlisted with a Connecticut regiment in the first weeks of the war. His unit became part of the invasion of Canada by the
Continental Army in 1775. Following the capture of Montreal, his enlistment expired and he returned to Danbury to continue his
career as a shoemaker. [1]
At this time, nearby Westchester County, New York was a 'neutral ground' between the British forces controlling New York City in
the south and colonial forces in the north. In addition to regular armies, the county was host to vigilante gangs that claimed to
support each side in the conflict in order to justify pillage. [2]
By September, 1776, Crosby had left behind his shoemaking to return to the Continental Army, and made his way to the camp at
White Plains in Westchester County. On the way, as a result of misunderstanding, Crosby was invited to join a meeting of loyalist
locals who were intending to support the British efforts in the area. He was able to deliver the information he learned to John Jay, a
member of the local Committee of Safety, and at Jay and Crosby's direction the group of loyalists was arrested. [2]
He was recruited to spy full time by Jay, and in order to gain entry into loyalist and British circles he adopted the identity of a spy
employed by the British General Howe. By doing this, he became an object of hatred for many of his friends and family. Crosby
135

equested that if he died, the Committee of Safety would clear his name of supporting the British, and they also gave him a special
pass to be used in an emergency if he was captured by American forces. [2]
Crosby served as a spy in Westchester County, further north near Lake Champlain, and in other areas. [2] He followed the same
pattern of infiltration, capture, and escape at least four times. [3] The intelligence he provided was used both to capture loyalists and
undermine local support for the British, and on at least one occasion proved useful to the Commander of the Continental Army,
George Washington. He was repeatedly captured by Americans who believed him to be a loyalist, and consequently repeatedly
escaped. [2]
Following the War, Crosby and his brother purchased a farm, and he lived on that land until his death. [2]
Crosby's life may be the basis for the character Harvey Birch in The Spy, a novel published in 1821 and authored by the American
writer James Fenimore Cooper. [2][3][4] Cooper may have heard of Crosby's story from John Jay, although Jay apparently did not
reveal Crosby's name, fearing retribution from the spy's enemies. [2]
References:
1. Bailey, James Montgomery; Bailey, Jame Montgomery and Hill, Susan Benedict (1896). History of Danbury, Connecticut, 1684-
1896. pp. 103. http://books.google.com/?id=rF4EAAAAYAAJ&printsec=titlepage.
2. Miller, Harry Edward (1898). "The Spy on Neutral Ground". The New England Magazine (The New England Magazine Company)
18. http://books.google.com/?id=kKMTAAAAYAAJ&dq=enoch+crosby. Retrieved 2009-06-24.
3. "Intelligence Operations". Intelligence in the War of Independence. Central Intelligence Agency Center for the Study of
Intelligence. https://www.cia.gov/library/center-for-the-study-of-intelligence/csi-publications/books-andmonographs/intelligence/intellopos.html.
Retrieved 2009-06-24.
4. Rintoul, M.C. (1993). Dictionary of real people and places in fiction. Taylor & Francis. pp. 337. ISBN 9780415059992.
http://books.google.com/?id=eJcOAAAAQAAJ&dq=enoch+crosby+revolutionary+war.
Enoch married as his second wife, Margaret, formerly the wife of Col. Benjamin Green.
http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~nyeccdar/Genealogy.htm
Enoch Crosby Family History
Extracts from an article by Ida M. Blake, Historian of the Enoch Crosby Chapter, DAR
1932
Enoch Crosby was born January 4, 1750, at Harwich, Barnstable County, Mass., and was a son of Thomas and Elizabeth Crosby.
Simon Crosby, the founder of the family in America, was born in England in 1599 and landed in Newtown (now Cambridge), Mass.,
on Oct. 2, 1635, with his wife and infant son, Thomas, then eight weeks old. He was thirty-six years old as given on the ship's
passenger list. He died in September, 1639. His son, Thomas Crosby, entered Harvard College, graduated July 9, 1653, and
subsequently became a minister of the gospel. He succeeded Rev. John Mayo as pastor of the Eastham Church, remaining there
until 1670. He died in Boston June 27, 1702. He was Enoch Crosby's grandfather.
Oddly enough Crosby, who was twice married, each time selected a widow. His first wife was Sarah Kniffin, widow of Ephraim
Nickerson, and his second wife was Margaret, widow of Col. Benjamin Green of Somers. His first wife bore him six children, two
sons and four daughters:
1) Enoch, Jr., who was proprietor of the Red Bird Stage Line, which ran from New York to Albany;
2) Lewis, a farmer in Southeast;
3), 4) Betsy and Rebecca, who died in early womanhood;
5) Hannah, who married Phillips Rundle, son of Capt. Solomon Rundle, who lived on the farm later owned by the late Isaac Kelley,
which is now covered by the waters of Southeast Reservoir.
6) The last surviving member of his family, Sarah Crosby, died on July 28, 1880, at the home of the late Francis Haines in
Southeast, aged ninety-three years.
Pelletreau in his History of Putnam County says that nothing further was known of Thomas Crosby, Enoch's father, and that
probably he died in 1777 as his name did not appear on the tax list of that year. Later research has revealed that he went to live
with his son, Benjamin on a farm which is now Baldwin Place, where he died in June, 1793. Rev. Silas Constant recorded in his
diary that he preached his funeral sermon on June 15, 1793, from the text Matthew m, 2. It is stated that he was buried in the
Presbyterian cemetery at Mahopac Falls. Elizabeth Crosby, his wife, died Aug. 6, 1801, aged ninety-two years, and was buried in
the Old Gilead Cemetery.
Besides Benjamin, Enoch and Elizabeth, wife of Captain Solomon Hopkins, he (Thomas Crosby, Enoch's father) had another son,
Thomas, who moved to Delaware County, N.Y. and also another daughter, Phebe, who married Wheaton Robinson and moved to
Stephentown, Albany County, N.Y. Rev. Silas Constant performed their marriage ceremony.
Enoch Crosby was Supervisor of the town of Southeast from 1812 to 1813 and also served a term or two as Justice of the Peace of
that town.
http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~nyeccdar/enoch_crosby__deposition.htm
Enoch Crosby
Deposition in Application for a Federal Pension
October 15, 1832
(Original spelling and punctuation)
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On this 15th day of October in the year 1832 personally appeared before the court of Oyer & Terminer and general jail delivery of
the said county of Putnam, Enoch Crosby of the town of Southeast in the county of Putnam and state of New York aged eighty two
years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration, in order o obtain the benefit of
the act of congress passed June 7, 1832.
That he entered in the service of the United States under the following named officers and served as herein stated -- That in the
month of April or in the forepart of May 1775 he enlisted in the town of Danbury in the state of Connecticut into Capt. Noble
Benedict's company in Colonel Waterbury's regiment of troops to defend the country for eight months service the regiment met at
Greenwich in Connecticut staid there two or three weeks then went to New York under General Wooster staid in New York a few
weeks the regiment was then carried to Albany in sloops & went directly to Half moon was there a few days went then to
Ticonderoga staid there a few days to have the batteaus finished which were to convey them further, General Schyler had the
command to the Isle aux Noix when Genl. Schyler being unwell General Montgomery had the command the declarant went to St.
John's which being by us at that time besiged by the Americans in about five weeks surrendered & the fort was taken the declarant
then went to Montreal.
That he came from there with Colonel Waterbury's regiment to Albany and having served the eight months was at place (Albany)
was permitted to leave the regiment and return home. & That he has no written discharge and this declarant further says,
That in the latter part of the month of August in the year 1776 he enlisted into the regiment commanded by Col Sworthaut in
Fredericksburgh now Carmel in the County of Putnam and started to join the army at Kingsbridge. The company had left
Fredericksburgh before declarent started, & he started alone after his said enlistment & on his way at a place in Westchester County
about two miles from Pines bridge he fell in company with a stranger, who accosted the deponent & asked him if he was doing
down, declarent replied he was: the stranger then asked if declarent was not afraid to venture alone, & said there were many rebels
below & he would meet with difficulty in getting down. The declarent perceived from the observations of the stranger that he
supposed the declarent intended to go to the British & willing to encourage that misapprehension & turn it to the best advantage, he
asked if there was any mode which he the stranger could point out by which the declarent could get through safely.
The stranger after being satisfied that declarent was wishing to join the British army, told him that there was a company raising in
that vicinity to join the British army, that it was nearly complete & in a few days would be ready to go down & that declarent had
better join that company and go down with them. The stranger finally gave to the declarent his name, it was Bunker, & told the
declarent where & showed the house in which he lived and also told him that --- Fowler was to be the captain of the company then
raising and -- Kipp Lieutenant.
After having learned this much from Bunker the declarent told him that he was unwilling to wait until the company could be ready to
march & would try to get through alone & parted from him on his way down & continued until night when he stopped at the house of
a man who was called Esquire Young & put up there for the night in the course of conversation with Esquire Young in the evening
declarent learned that he was a member of the committee of safety for the county of Westchester & then communicated to him the
information he had obtained from Mr. Bunker. Esqr. Young requested the declarent to accompany him the next morning to the
White plains in Westchester County as the committee of safety for the County were on that day to meet at the Court house in that
place.
The next morning the declarent in company with Esqr. Young went to the White plains & found the Committee there sitting after
Esqr. Young had an interview with the committee, the declarent was sent for and went before the committee, then sitting in the
Court room, & there communicated the information he had obtained from Bunker. The committee after learning the situation of
declarent, that he was a soldier enlisted in Col. Swortwants regiment & on his way to join it engaged to write to the Col. & explain
the reason why he did not joint it if he would consent to aid in the apprehension of the company then raising. it was by all thought
best, that he should not join the regiment, but should act in a different character as he could thus be more useful to his country.
He was accordingly announced to Capt. Townsend who then was at the White plains commanding a company of rangers as a
prisoner, & the Captain was directed to keep him until further orders. In the evening after he was placed as a prisoner under Capt.
Townsend, he made an excuse to go out & was accompanied by a soldier, his excuse led him over a fence into a field of corn then
nearly or quite full grown, as soon as he was out of sight of the soldier he made the best of his way from the soldier. & when the
soldier hailed him to return he was almost beyond hearing. an alarm gun was fired but declarent was far from danger.
In the course of the night the declarent reached the house of said Bunker, who got up and let him in. declarent then related to
Bunker the circumstance of his having been taken prisoner, of his going before the committee at the Court house, of being put under
the charge of Capt. Townsend & of his escape, that he had concluded to avail himself of the protection of the company raising in his
neighborhood to get down. The next morning Bunker went with declarent & introduced him as a good loyalist to several of the
company, declarent remained some days with different individuals of the company & until it was about to go down, when declarent
went one night to the house of Esq. Young to give information of the state & progress of the company the distance was four or five
miles from Bunkers, at the house of Esqr. Young defendent found Capt. Townsend with a great part of his company & after giving
the information he returned to the neighborhood & Bunkers & that night declarent with a great part of the company which was
preparing to go down were made prisoners.
The next day all of them about thirty in number were marched to White plains, and remained there several days, a part of the time
locked up in jail with the other prisoners, the residue of the time he was with the committee. The prisoners were finally ordered to
Fishkill in the County of Dutchess where the State Convention was then sitting. The declarent went as a prisoner to Fishkill. Capt.
Townsend with his company of rangers took charge of the company.
At Fishkill a committee for detecting conspiracies was sitting composed of John Jay, afterwards Governor of N York, Zepeniah Platt
afterwards first judge of Dutchess County, Colonel Duer of the County of Albany & a Mr. Sackett. The declarent was called before
that committee, who understood the character of declarent & the nature of his services. this the committee must have learned either
from Capt. Townsend or from the Committee at White plains. The declarent was examined under oath & his examination reduced to
137

writing. The prisoners with the declarent were kept whilst declarent remained at Fishkill in a building which had been occupied as a
Hatters shop & they were guarded by a company of rangers commanded by Capt. Clark. The declarent remained about a week at
Fishkill when he was bailed by Jonathan Hopkins, this was done to cover the character in which declarent acted.
Before the declarent was bailed the Fishkill committee had requested him to continue in this service & on declarent mentioning the
fact of his having enlisted in Col. Swortwauts company & the necessity there was of his joining it he was informed that he should be
indemnified from that enlistment, that they would write to the Col. & inform him that the declarent was in their service. The
committee then wished declarent to undertake a secret service over the river. he was furnished with a secret pass, which was a
writing signed by the committee which is now lost and directed to go to the house of Nicholas Brawer near the mouth of the
Wappingers creek who would take him across the river & then to proceed to the house of John Russell about ten miles from the
river & make such inquiries & discoveries as he could.
He proceeded according to his directions to said Brawers & from thence to John Russells & there hired himself to said Russell to
work for him but for no definite time. This was a neighborhood of Loyalists & it was expected that a company was there raising for
the British army. The declarent remained about ten days in Russells employment & during that time ascertained that a company
was then raising but was not completed. Before declarent left Fishkill on his service a time was fixed for him to recross the river &
give information to some one of the committee who was to meet him, this time having arrived and the company not being completed
the declarent recrossed the river & met Zepeniah Platt one of the committee & gave him all the information he had then obtained.
declarent was directed to recross the river to the neighborhood of Russells & on a time then fixed, again to meet the committee on
the east side of the river,
declarent returned to Russells neighborhood, soon became intimate with the Loyalists, was introduced to Capt. Robinson said to be
an English officer & who was to command the company then raising. Capt. Robinson occupied a cave in the mountains & deponent
having agreed to go with the company was invited & accepted of the invitation to lodge with Robinson in the cave they slept together
nearly a week in the cave & the time for the company to start having been fixed & the route designated to pass Severns, to Bush
Carricks where they were to stop the first night. This time for starting having arrived before the appointed time to meet the
committee on the east side of the river, the declarent in order to get an opportunity to convey information to Fishkill, recommended
that each man should the night before they started sleep where he chose & that each should be by himself for if they should be
discovered that night together all would be taken which would be avoided if they were separated.
This proposition was acceded to, and when they separated declarent not having time to go to Fishkill, and as the only and as it
appeared to him the best means of giving the information, was to go to a Mr. Purdy who was a stranger to declarent & all he knew of
him was that the Tories called him a wicked rebel & said that he ought to die, declarent went & found Purdy informed him of the
situation of affairs, of the time the company was to start & the place at which they were to stop the first night, & requested him to go
to Fishkill & give the information to the committee. Purdy assured the declarent that the information should be given. Declarent
returned to Russells & lodged in his house. The following evening the company assembled consisting of about thirty men & started
from Russells house which was in the Town of Marlborough & County of Ulster for New York & in the course of the night arrived at
Bush Carricks & went into the barn to lodge after taking refreshments.
Before morning the barn was surrounded by American troops & the whole company including Capt. Robinson were made prisoners.
The troops who took the company prisoners were commanded by Capt. Melancton Smith, who commanded a company of rangers
at Fishkill his company crossed the river to perform this service. Col. Duer was with Capt. Smiths Company on this expedition. The
prisoners including the declarent were marched to Fishkill & confined in the stone church in which there was near two hundred
prisoners, after remaining one night in the church the Committee sent for declarent & told him that it was unsafe for him to remain
with the prisoners, as the least suspicion of the course he had pursued would prove fatal to him, & advised him to leave the village
of Fishkill but to remain where they could call upon him if his services should be wanted.
Declarent went to the house of a Dutchman a farmer whose name is forgotten about five miles from the Village of Fishkill & there
went to work at making shoes. after declarent had made arrangements for working at shoes he informed Mr. Sacket one of the
committee where he could be found it he should be wanted. In about a week declarent recd. a letter from the committee requesting
him to meet some one of the Committee at the house of Doct. Osborn about one mile from Fishkill. Declarent according to the
request went to the house of Doct. Osborn & soon after John Jay came there, inquired for the Doctor - who was absent, inquired for
medicine but found none that he wanted, he came out of the house, & went to his horse near which declarent stood & as he passed
he said in a low voice it wont do. there are too many around, return to your work.
Declarent went back & went to work at shoes but within a day or two was again notified & a horse sent to him, requiring him to go to
Bennington in Vermont & from thence westerly to a place called Maloonsack, & there call on one Hazard Wilcox, a tory of much
notoriety & ascertain if anything was going on there injurious to the american cause. Declarent followed his instructions, found
Wilcox but could not learn that any secret measure was then projected against the interest of the country at that place, but learned
from Wilcox a list of persons friendly to the British cause who could be safely trusted, from that place quite down to the south part of
Dutchess County, declarent followed the directions of said Wilcox and called on the different individuals by him mentioned but could
discover nothing of importance until he reached the town of Pawling in Dutchess County where he called upon a Doctor, whose
name he thinks was Prosser, & informed him that he wished to go below, but was fearful of some trouble. The Doctor informed him
that there was a company raising in that vicinity to go to New York to join the British Army, that the Captains name was Shelden that
he had been down & got a commission, that he Prosser was doctoring the Lieutenant, whose name was Chase, that if declarent
would wait a few days he could safely go down with that company, that he could stay about the neighborhood, & should be informed
when the company was ready. That declarent remained in that vicinity, became acquainted with several of the persons who were
going with that company, was acquainted with the Lieut. Chase, but never saw the Captain to form any acquaintance with him.
The season had got so far advanced that the company were about to start to join the enemy to be ready for an early
commencement of the campaign in 1777. It was about the last of February of that year, when a place was fixed and also a time for
meeting. It was at a house situated half a mile from the road & about three miles from a house then occupied by Col. Morchause a
militia Colonel After the time was fixed for the marching of Capt. Sheldens company the deponent went in the night to Col.
138

Morehause & informed him of the situation of the company of the time appointed for meeting of the place &c. And Morehause
informed declarent that they should be attended to. The declarent remained about one month in this neighborhood, & once in the
time met Mr. Sackett one of the Committee & Col. Ludingtons, & apprised him of what was then going on, and was to have given the
committee inteligence when the company was to march but the shortness of the time between the final arrangement & the time of
starting was that declarent was obliged to give the information to Col Morehause
The company consisting of about thirty met at the time & place appointed and after they had been there an hour or two two young
men of the company came in & said there was a gathering under arms at Old Morehauses, the inquirey became general, what could
it mean, was there any traitors in the company. The capt. soon called one or two of the company out the door for the purpose of
private conversation about the situation, & very soon declarent heard the cry of stand, stand. Those out the door ran but were soon
met by a company coming from a different direction. they were taken the house surrounded & the company all made prisoners.
The Col. then ordered them to be tied together, two & two, they came to declarent & be beged to be excused from going as he was
lame and could not travel, the Col replied, you shall go dead or alive & if in no other way you shall be carried on the horse with me,
the rest were marched off & declarent put onto the horse with Col. Morehause, all went to the house of Col. Morehause and when
the prisoners were marched into the house declarent with the permission of Morehause left them & made the best of his way to Col.
Ludingtons & there informed him of the operations of the night, he reached Col. Ludingtons about day light in the morning, from
thence he went to Fishkill to the house of Doct Van Wyck where John Jay boarded & there informed him of all the occurrences on
that northern expedition. Said Jay requested the declarent to come before the committee the next night when they would be ready
to receive him he accordingly went before the committee where he declared under his oath all that had occurred since he had seen
them.
The committee then directed him to go to the house of Col. Van Ness in Albany County & there take directions from him. he went to
Van Ness house & was directed by him to go to the north but declarent cannot tell the place the duty was performed, but nothing
material discovered, further than that the confiscation of the personal property of the Tories & leasing of their lands had a great
tendency to discourage them from joining the British Army. declarent then returned to Pokeepsie, where Egbert Benson &
Melancton Smith acted in the room of the Fishkill committee There was no more business at that time in which they wished to
employ declarent, & he being somewhat apprehensive that a longer continuance in that employment would be dangerous, & the
time for which he enlisted in Col. Swartwauts regiment having expired he came home with the approbation of the committee. This
was about the alst of May 1777, and in the course of the fall after, the declarent saw Col. Swortwaut at his house in Fishkill & there
talked over the subject of the employment of the declarent by the committee & the Col. told declarent that he had drawn his pay the
same as if he had been with the regiment, that the Paymaster of the Regiment lived in the town of Hurley in Ulster County.
Declarent went to the paymaster and recd. his pay for nine months service or for the term for which the regiment was raised. The
declarent was employed in the secret service for a period of full nine months.
This declarent further says that in the year 1779 in the month of May he enlisted into a company commanded by Capt. Jonah Hallett
for six months declarent enlisted as a sergint in said Hallets company. The term of enlistment was performed on the lines in the
County of Westchester, moving from place to place to guard the country & detect Tories, that the company continued in this service
until after Stony Point was taken by Gen Wayne & abandoned & also reoccupied & abandoned by the English troops. When this
company was ordered over the river & joined the regiment at Stony point & continued there in making preparations for building a
block house until the time of the expiration of the service when the company was ordered to march to Pokeepsie to be discharged
by the Governor. When they arrived the Governor was absent the company was billetted out & the declarent was billetted upon the
family of Doct. Tappen. After remaining a day or two, & the Governor not arriving, they were discharged.
During this service in Westchester county the following occurrence took place a British vessel of war lay at anchor near Tellers point
& a party of sailors or marines came on shire & wandered a short distance from the water when a party of our men got between
them & the river & made them prisoners. they were marched to the place where the company then lay, a little east of Tellers point,
the number of prisoners declarent thinks was twelve & the captors six. The prisoners were afterwards sent to Pokeepsie.
This declarent further says that in the month of May in the year 1780 he again enlisted for six months in a company commanded by
Capt. Livingston in Col. Benschautens Regiment. he enlisted as a sergent in the Town of Fredericksburgh now the town of Kent in
Putnam County. The Regiment assembled at Fishkill & marched to Westpoint & remained there a few days some ten or fifteen, a
call was made for troops to fill up the Brigade or Brigades under the command of Gen De La Fayettes, and they were to be raised
by drafts or volunteers, a call first was made for volunteers & the declarent with others volunteered & made a company which was
put under the care & charge of Capt. Daniel Delavan. the declarent continued to be a sergent in Delavans company Col. Philip Van
Cortland commanded the regiment to which Captain Delavans company was attached, soon after the company was formed they
crossed the river from West point & marched to Peekskill where they remained one night.
The next day marched to Verplanks point & crossed over to Stony point & from thence made the best of their way to New Jersey
where they remained until late in the fall when the time of enlistment having expired they were discharged, after having fully &
faithfully performed the service of fix months for which he enlisted. during this campaign in N Jersey, Major Andre was arrested,
condemned & executed. several of the soldiers of Capt. Delavan's company went to see him executed. This declarent was sergent
of the guard that day & could not go to see the execution.
The declarent further says that he has no documentary evidence of his service. and that he knows of no person who can testify to
his services other than those whose depositions are hereto annexed
The declarent hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present & declares that his name is not
on the pension roll agency of any state.
The declarent was born in a place called Harwich in the County of Barnstable and State of Massachusetts in the year one thousand
seven hundred & fifty.
The declarent has a record of his age
139

The declarent was living in the town of Danbury in the state of Connecticut when he enlisted into the service, that since the
revolutionary war the declarent has resided in the State of New York, in what is now the County of Putnam formerly the County of
Dutchess, & now lives in the same County & on the same farm where he has lived for the last fifty years.
The declarent allways volunteered in every enlistment & to perform all the services which he performed as detailed in this
declaration.
That the declarent was acquainted with the following officers who were with the troops where he served, General Schuyler Gen.
Montgomery, General Wooster, Col. Waterbury, Col. Holmes, Gen. De La Fayette, Gen. Poor, Col. Van Cortlandt, Col.
Benschauten, Col. Ludington.
The declarent never received any written discharge, & if he ever received a sergents warrant it is through time & accident lost or
destroyed.
This declarent is known to Samuel Washburn a Judge of the Court of Common please of the County of Putnam, Benaiah Y Morse a
clergyman in his neighborhood and who he believes can testify to his character for veracity & good behavior and thus belief of his
services as a soldier of the revolution.
/S/ Enoch Crosby
Sworn to & subscribed the day and year aforesaid
I. Morehouse Clerk of said court
We Benaiah Y. Morse a Clergyman in the town of Carmel & pastor of the church in which the above named Enoch Crosby is a
communicant, and Samuel Washburn a Judge of Putnam County court of Common pleas also residing in Carmel
do hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Enoch Crosby who has subscribed and
sworn to the above declaration that we believe him to be eighty two years of age, that he is reputed & believed in the neighborhood
where he resides to have been a soldier of the revolution, and that we concur in that opinion
Sworn to & subscribed the day & year
aforesaid. I. Morehouse Clerk of said court
/S/ Benaiah Y. Morse
/S/ Samuel Washburn
Philipstown Lodge No. 236, Cold Spring, New York
Warrant: 04 Sep 1851 147
Lodge Website: http://www.philipstown236fam.org/index.html
see also No. 352, 5 Dec 1822; forfeit 1835; revived as No. 12 in 1847 [St. John's GL]; renumbered No. 236 in 1851 [Dec 1850];
'offshoot' of this Lodge is West Point No. 877, 1910.
“The journal of the Reverend Silas Constant: pastor of the Presbyterian ...,” by Silas Constant, Emily Warren Roebling, page 444.
http://books.google.com/books?id=L0kVAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA431&lpg=PA431&dq=%22William+Ricketts+Van+Cortlandt%22&source
=bl&ots=wan9UdjOqm&sig=n24lpRj2f1Ib4WPyjovH9UWwdxE&hl=en&ei=RzjhTbzYCYLw0gH9muzABw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=
result&resnum=1&ved=0CBoQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=%22William%20Ricketts%20Van%20Cortlandt%22&f=false
SYLVANUS WARREN, ESQ., youngest son of Captain John and Sarah (Nelson) Warren, was
born at Philipstown, now Cold Spring-on-Hudson, 15 Nov 1795, and died there 19 Feb 1859.
He was one of the executors of his father's will, and under date of 1 April 1839, joined with
his brothers Cornelius and Henry in executing a deed to John W. Brinkerhoff, of Fishkill, in
consideration of $16,750, for lands which John Warren purchased of Thomas Searls,
bounded partly by the farm of Peter Warren, Highland turnpike, the road leading to the river,
and Cat Hill; also for lands conveyed to John Warren in his lifetime by Frederick Philipse and
Maria his wife, by deed bearing date 23 June, 1821 (Putnam County Deeds, Liber B, folios
12-15), and by Samuel Gouverneur and Mary his wife under deed dated 1 May, 1832, in all
about 354 acres. (Putnam County Deeds.) Mr. Warren was a member of the New York
Assembly of 1843. He was also a member of Philipstown Lodge, No. 236, F&AM, and at a
meeting of the Lodge held at Philipstown, Saturday evening, 19 Feb 1859, his death was
announced by the presiding officer in feeling language, and, on motion, a committee was
appointed to draft resolutions expressive of the sorrow of the Lodge. The resolutions drafted
and adopted were as follows:
"DEARLY BELOVED BRETHREN :
"It is with pain that we heard of the death of our worthy Brother, Sylvanus Warren, who expired in the village this afternoon about
two o'clock.
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"Again and again within the past few months have we been called upon to mourn the loss of our departed brethren, but the story of
sadness has come up to us from a distance, and while we have been bowed down with sorrow, yet we have felt more prepared for
it; but now, indeed, has death knocked audibly at the door of our Lodge, and we have beheld one of our most esteemed and
tenderly beloved brethren torn from our very midst, and the voice which we all so much loved to hear in life has been hushed in the
cold and icy embrace of death, and
" 'Sad images of the stern agony and pall
And breathless darkness and the narrow house
Makes us to shudder and grow sick at heart.'
"It is not consonant with the present purpose to eulogize Brother Warren; his life, whose daily scenes have been enacted in our very
midst, is its own best eulogy.
"It has fallen to the lot of but few men to fill so large a sphere of home usefulness as Brother Warren. In all movements for the
amelioration of suffering he was ever among the foremost. In all his dealings he was upright and just, and the timorous in business
knew at all times that with him they were safe.
"His associations with our Fraternity were always marked with great gentleness and kindness, and he always loved the brethren,
and it is needless to say here that these feelings were entirely reciprocated.
" How often are we led to exclaim with the poet,—
" 'The good die first,
And they whose beans are dry as summer dust
Burn to the socket.'
"Alas! our brother, may the earth that nourished thee lie lightly on thy bosom, and on the glorious morning of the Resurrection may
thy body arise as incorruptible as thy soul.
"Brethren, we are spared, but, like the sands in the hour-glass, we are rapidly passing away. Let us be wise in time, that we may be
the better prepared to meet the realities of an untried eternity.
"We offer, in conclusion, the following resolutions:
"WHEREAS, It has pleased Almighty God our Heavenly Father to call from among us another member of our Fraternity; and
"WHEREAS, The name of our late worthy Brother Sylvanus Warren is now added to the list of those whose departure we are called
upon to mourn; therefore,
"Resolved, That in the death of Brother Sylvanus Warren his family have lost an affectionate and indulgent husband and father, our
Fraternity a valued and much esteemed member, our community an honorable and upright citizen, who has sustained an
unblemished reputation throughout all the trying vicissitudes of life, and who leaves behind him an unimpeachable reputation and a
name that will ever be remembered with respect by all who knew him; therefore,
"Resolved, That we condole and sympathize with the afflicted family and relatives of our deceased brother, and with heartfelt sorrow
mourn with them over his death; therefore,
"Resolved, That, as a token of respect for our deceased brother, our Lodge room be draped in mourning for the space of sixty days,
and the brethren wear the usual badge of mourning for thirty days.
"On motion, the foregoing Preamble and Resolutions were accepted and ordered to be engrossed on the minutes, and the
Secretary transmit a copy to the family of our deceased Brother.
" G. M. MIKMAK," Secretary of Philipstown Lodge No. 236."
Mr. Warren married, 15 Feb 1824, Phebe Lickley, d/o William Lickley and Elizabeth Bell, b. 13 Aug 1804; d. 15 Dec 1870. (See
Journal, notes 148, 150.)
Children, all born at Cold Spring:
1. William John Warren, b. 27 Nov 1824; drowned 25 Jun 1828.
2. Alexander Warren, b. 05 May 1826; d. 9 Nov 1830.
3. Sarah Elizabeth Warren, b. 18 Dec 1827; d. 3 Jan 1829.
4. Gouverneur Kemble Warren, b. 08 Jan 1830; d. 8 Aug 1882; m. Emily Forbes Chase. By reason of its length, the extensive
sketch of Major General Warren will follow those of his brothers.
5. William John Warren, b. 02 Nov 1831; d. 9 Jul 1901; m. Edwardina Simms.
6. Sarah Warren, b. 19 Mar 1834, d. 16 Oct 1841. Her grandfather John Warren remembered her in his will.
7. Cornelius Warren, b. 06 Mar 1836; d. 7 May 1837.
8. Eliza Warren, b. 21 Dec 1837; m. 24 Nov 1863, Capt. Cornelius Hook, U.S.A., who d. of yellow fever at Key West,
19 Jun 1864.
9. Alexander Warren, b. 07 Apr 1839; d. 14 Feb 1841.
10. Edgar Washburn Warren, b, 06 Aug 1841; m. Cornelia Maria Barrows,
11. Emily Warren, b. 23 Sep 1843; m. Washington Augustus Roebling.
12. Robert Parrot Warren, b. 16 Nov 1847; d. 23 Jan 1876.
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------
Appendix I
M.’. W.’. James William Husted Biography – continued
http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~sunnyann/obituaries4.html#Thomas%20D.%20Husted
Obituary Records of Graduates of Yale University, 1905
1. Thomas Daniel Husted, son of General James William Husted (Yale 1854), was born 18 Sep 1860, at Peekskill, NY. His mother
was Helen Mar Southard, daughter of Thomas C. Southard, of Peekskill. After graduation he studied law a year at the Albany Law
School, continued his study at Port Henry, NY, till January 1885, and then in New York City, where he was admitted to the bar on
May 15. After a period of general practice he gave his attention chiefly to corporation law and to real estate enterprises. He was a
fluent speaker and a natural leader, with a marked talent for organization. Just before the reunion of his class in 1903 he received
an injury while on shipboard, resulting in blood poisoning and a long illness from which he never fully recovered. He died of
pneumonia at his home in New York City 11 Jan 1905, at the age of 44 years.
He married, 3 Jun 1886, Carrie Louise, daughter of Morris E. Clinton, of Peekskill, who is also deceased. A daughter survives them.
A brother graduated from Yale College in 1892.
3. James William Husted, Jr. (16 Mar 1870-2 Jan 1925), a U.S. Representative from New York, was born in Peekskill, NY, He
attended private schools at the Peekskill Military Academy and Cutler’s School, New York City. He was graduated from Phillips
Academy, Andover, MA, in 1888, from Yale University in 1892 (member of Skull & Bones there), and from the New York Law School
in 1894. James was admitted to the bar in 1894 and commenced practice in Peekskill. He served as member of the State assembly
1895-1897 and moved to White Plains in 1897 where he continued the practice of law. He returned to Peekskill in 1902 and again
practiced law serving as president of the village of Peekskill in 1903 and 1904. He served as member and treasurer of the board of
park commissioners from 1909 to 1920. He was an unsuccessful candidate for election in 1912 to the Sixty-third Congress.
Husted was elected as a Republican to the Sixty-fourth and to the three succeeding Congresses (4 Mar 1915-3 Mar 1923). He was
not a candidate for renomination in 1922, resuming the practice of law in Peekskill. He also engaged in banking and served as
president of the Peekskill Bank.
He was a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, lodge and chapter. He was first exalted ruler of Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks in Westchester County, NY, and was a member of Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the New York Historical
Society, the Republican Club of the City of New York, and D. K. E., fraternity. He was founder of the Peekskill National Bank and
was director and counsel of it afterward; president of the new England Pin Company, of Winsted, Connecticut; treasurer of the
Mohegan Stove company; treasurer of the T. J. Maxwell Company, treasurer of the Washington Park Land Company; president of
the Riverside Park Land Company, director of the New England Knitting Company. He was also vestryman of St. Peter's Episcopal
Church.
He married, 12 Jun 1895, Louise Wetmore Spaulding, born in Winsted, CT, 30 Aug 1873, daughter of J. F. and Eliza (Wetmore)
Spaulding, both now deceased. She is a lineal descendant of John Alden and Priscilla (Molines) Alden, as well as of the first John
Wetmore. Children: 1. James William (3rd). 2. John Grinnell Wetmore 3. Priscilla A. 4. David R. 5. Ellery S. 6. Robert.
James died in New York City 2 Jan 1925. He was interred of ashes in Hillside Cemetery, Peekskill.
Transcribed and edited from the September 26, 1892 New York Times.
----------
James W. Husted dead – Passed Away quietly, conscious almost to the last.
The fatal illness contracted on the way to the Minneapolis Convention –
Wife and Children present at the end –
Death expected all through the day.
Copyright © The New York Times
Peekskill, NY, 25 Sep – After many weeks of illness, Gen. James W. Husted died tonight at 7:30 o’clock at his residence. It had
been apparent for some time that his hold on life was slight; the attending physician had told the family that he might die any time,
even when apparently gaining. They were prepared for the end, and were with him when he breathed his last.
All day his condition was more evidently critical than at any previous time during his illness. Dr. H. Clay Paddock came up from
Fordham and assisted the attending physician, Dr. P. H. Mason, in consultation. They took such measures as seemed advisable,
and succeeded in affording the patient some relief. But still Gen Husted’s temperature failed to come up to normal, and his pulse
decreased to 63 during the afternoon and was feeble. Toward nightfall he fell into a semi-comatose condition, from which he did not
rally. He passed away without regaining consciousness. The end was apparently peaceful and painless.
During the entire sickness of Gen. Husted his family has been unremitting in their care of him, and some members have been with
him continually. Those present at his bedside at the end were his wife, his sister, Mrs. Cox, his sons, Thomas D. and James William,
and his daughters, Helen and Hattie. Gen. Hiusted died of complications of diseases, including heart failure superinduced by
nephiritis, kidney disease, and dilatation of the heart. His illness really dated from his visit to the Republican convention at
Minneapolis last June. He was brought here from there, sick, but he rallied, and soon went out driving every day, and once made a
trip to New York. On 13 Aug he suffered a relapse, and for a week he was in a critical condition. He regained a degree of health
after that, and was able to go out driving. Last Sunday he suffered another relapse, and this terminated in death.
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http://books.google.com/books?id=GtsFQMKwYjIC&pg=PA303&lpg=PA303&dq=%22james+w+husted%22&source=web&ots=PDb
JOT6gFj&sig=yq9d4JZR4m3OcuKOJ6UlnzrvFCE
Orations, Addresses and Speeches of Chauncey M. Depew, by Chauncey Mitchell Depew, 1910. page 303
MEMORIAL OF GENERAL HUSTED
ADDRESS AT THE MEMORIAL SERVICES IN HONOR OF GENERAL JAMES W. HUSTED
BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, IN THE ASSEMBLY CHAMBER,
AT ALBANY, MARCH 28, 1893.
SENATORS AND MEMBERS OF ASSEMBLY: In the fall of 1852 I stood on the campus at Yale College, a country lad, just entered
in the freshman class. I had neither friend nor acquaintance in New Haven, and was utterly lonesome and homesick. A handsome
young man, with brilliant eyes, a mass of wavy auburn hair, flowing to his shoulders, and a gay debonair way, stepped briskly up to
me, and with a cordial grasp, as if we had been life-long friends, said, "my name is Husted, I am a Junior, and we are both from
Westchester County." This was the beginning of our attachment, which remained unbroken amid all the wonderful changes and
vicissitudes of the future, and ripened and deepened with time, until our relations were ended by the death of General Husted forty
years afterwards. The undergraduate was then developing the qualities which were the elements of his success.
He was not a close student, but very active in the work of the literary societies. He was not a factor of importance in the competition
for scholastic honors, but he was a potential force in college politics. He cared little who was to be the valedictorian, but was
uncommonly anxious to be the leader of his class. He was an excellent classical scholar, and always kept up his easy familiarity
with Latin and Greek, but believed with Pope, that "The proper study of mankind is man."
Like all the men who have risen to distinction in our country, he was compelled to work from the start and, without other assistance
than his own industry and ability, make his own career.
James William Husted (1833-1892), popularly known as the "Bald Eagle of West-Chester," was of the Class of 1854, Yale.—Ed.
His remarkable power of lucid explanation made him an admirable teacher. The Academy which he taught after leaving college, to
secure the means for prosecuting his law studies, never had a better principal, and he continued to teach until his admission to the
Bar. He leaped into the political arena as soon as he received his diploma, and had won the respect and recognition of the county
leaders before he began practicing his profession. He was faithful to the trusts which he assumed as either teacher or lawyer, or
business man, but his models were the statesmen of the country, and his ambitions and aspirations were for public life. It was thirtyeight
years from his graduation to his death, and as School Commissioner, Deputy Superintendent of the Insurance Department,
Harbor Master, Deputy Captain of the Port, Emigration Commissioner, and Member of the Legislature, he was for thirty-five years in
responsible positions in our State Government. But he was also, during this active and busy period, Judge Advocate of the Seventh
Brigade, Major General of the Fifth Division of the National Guard, and Grand Master of the Masonic Fraternity of the State of
New York.
He served twenty-two terms in the House of Assembly, and was six times its Speaker, a record unequaled, either in length of
service, or in the number of elections as presiding officer of the popular branch of the Legislature, in the history of the State. He
grasped intuitively the conditions in his district, and possessed endless fertility of resource and audacity for attack. In the quickness
of his movements and combinations he resembled General Sheridan, and the suddenness and brilliancy of his assault was like a
cavalry charge of Murat's. While still a law student, he upset the calculations and defeated the plans of the veteran party managers,
and by a creation and coalition as original as it was bold, carried the Third District of Westchester and elected himself School
Commissioner. Rockland County had always been a Democratic stronghold. It was in the same Senatorial and Congressional
District as Westchester, and General Husted had frequently canvassed it and was thoroughly familiar with its people. After he had
served nine terms in the Assembly from Westchester County, the Republicans of Rockland invited him to come over and lead the
forlorn hope. His quick eye detected a division in the apparently solid ranks of the enemy. He accepted the nomination in Rockland
for Member of Assembly, and to the surprise of the State and the country, carried the county twice. He thus accomplished a doubly
difficult task, first in overcoming a majority which had always been overwhelmingly against his party, and secondly in succeeding
against the strong local prejudices which always exist in our constituencies against a candidate who is not a resident of the district.
It would greatly strengthen and improve our public life if this custom were more elastic. No matter how able or useful a
representative may be, no matter how valuable to good government, or to the position and power of his party, his political career is
dependent upon the accidents in the district where he may happen to reside. If constituencies could and would choose from
candidates without regard to residence, men like Mr. Elaine or Mr. Thurman would always be in their proper places, leading their
respective parties, and giving their genius for affairs and ripe experience to the service of their country. The statesman who had
been beaten by a nobody upon some local issue could find a constituency devoted to national questions which would gladly return
him, and have pride in the fame of their member.
General Husted entered the field of State politics at a time when an old dynasty was crumbling to pieces. New York has been
singular in the domination of her great parties by individuals or cliques. They have always been arbitrary and autocratic, and often
tyrannical. It is said of a Parliamentary district in London, which will always give a larger majority for a titled candidate than for a
commoner, that Marylebone dearly loves a lord. So our State for more than half a century has shown a decided preference for what
partisans call a leader, and the public a boss.
Power is exercised, either in the recognition and promotion of ability, or in a merciless crusade against talent and ambition, and the
ruthless slaughter of independent thought or action. In the one case the party grows in strength and opportunity, and in the other it
falls finally into the hands of a diminishing number until the hardships of defeat have restored its vitality and vigor.
Edwin Crosswell and the Albany Argus had ruled the Democratic Party for a long time, and Thurlow Weed had controlled the Whig,
and afterwards the Republican Party, more than thirty years. There was little opportunity for young men in either organization, and
revolts against the leaders were becoming more frequent and formidable. The alliance between Seward, Weed, and Greeley, which
had exercised such a powerful and historical influence upon the affairs of both the State and Nation, had been dissolved by the
143

etirement of the junior member. Roscoe Conkling and Reuben E. Fenton were fighting the machine and denouncing machine rule
and machine methods with a force and eloquence which have never been equaled. The subsequent position of both these
exceedingly able and successful men on this question, is a remarkable illustration of the irony of political evolution.
Young men usually find that where the party is cliqued the only way to secure favors or recognition is by making the leaders fear
them. But in associations formed by such considerations there is neither faith nor fidelity. Thurlow Weed maintained his supremacy
for a generation because of the wisdom and liberality of his methods. The rule usually is to repel assistance, especially from strong
men, because of jealousy, and also on the principle that the more numerous the victors the more minute is the division of the spoils.
Mr. Weed, for the greater part of his long reign, was constantly recruiting his forces. When a young man he displayed conspicuous
ability, either in the Legislature, or State Convention, or upon the platform, his acquaintance was sought and his friendship gained.
This constant replacement of losses, and strengthening of his organization with fresh and vigorous members, made him invincible
for a generation.
Horace Greeley was unequalled as a partisan editor, but he could not contest the leadership with Thurlow Weed. He was a great
thinker and writer, but the weakest, and most uncertain of political captains. He was so vacillating in his movements, and so
credulous in his judgment of men, that his selection of lieutenants was often unfortunate, and sometimes whimsical. In the last years
of Mr. Weed's active control of the party, he changed his policy. The able men who had acted with, and under him so long, fearing
the vigorous youth who were forging to the front, aroused his distrust of these pushing ambitions. The result was first revolt, and
then revolution within the party, and next its defeat in the State. Independence of thought and action have unrestrained opportunity
when a party is in the minority. Rewards and punishments are no longer factors in caucuses or conventions, and influence is
proportioned to merit. It was some years after the fall of Thurlow Weed, before the party found a new leader.
During this period a number of young men, of brilliant ability and great promise, came prominently before the public. Many of them
disappeared afterwards, either losing their constituencies, or being crushed out by some one of the subsequent machines. General
Husted was one of the few, out of the many products of the period of party liberty, who survived all the accidents of warring and
changing factions. He was more frequently in opposition to, than in accord with, the machine. As one was broken and another
constructed, he would still find himself antagonized by it. He had views and would express them, and he wanted reasons before he
would obey orders. These qualities made him objectionable to the leaders as they severally came into power. They repeatedly
thwarted his ambitions for State office, and for Federal appointments, but were able only once to dislodge him in his district. They
tried to beat him by third candidates, they endeavored to defeat his nominations by capturing his friends with places in the Custom
House and the Post Office, and on several occasions, preferring a Democrat to a Republican they could not absolutely control, they
furnished secret but substantial support to his opponent. But nothing could shake his hold upon his people. They knew him, and he
knew them.
He saw the power of Thurlow Weed pass away, he held his own during the brief sway of Horace Greeley, he kept his position under
the rule of Reuben E. Fenton, and the mastery of Roscoe Conkling, and notwithstanding all the kaleidoscopic changes following the
retirement of Senator Conkling, he died as he had lived for twenty-two years, still Member of the Assembly for the Third District of
Westchester. General Husted's tact, talents, and unselfish desire to be useful, made him the selected friend in the House of
Assembly of every Governor of the State, no matter what the politics of the Executive. Hoffman, Dix, Tilden, Robinson, Cornell,
Cleveland, Hill, and Flower were successively the chief magistrates of the Commonwealth during General Husted's service in the
Legislature, and with each of them his relations were close and cordial. He was above small partisanship and cheap politics. He
believed the Governor of the State of New York occupied a large place, and that the Legislature should do all in its power to enable
him to sustain its dignity.
On strictly party measures, he would always act with his party. But a Governor can be annoyed or assisted in numberless ways,
which affect only his personal comfort and legitimate powers. In such cases, if the Republicans were in the majority in the
Legislature, Husted was the Governor's most efficient friend, and if the Democrats were in power, he was still the most important
factor in the Capitol. Those who wanted to get revenge because some bill had been vetoed, or an appointment to office had not
been made, and those who thought it good politics to cramp the conveniences of help, or material for the Executive Chamber, or the
Executive Mansion, found in the General an alert, able, and generally successful enemy. Governor Tilden's fame and career
depended upon his carrying through the Assembly, while he was a member, his resolution for the impeachment of the ring judges.
And yet he would have failed, but for the assistance and consummate parliamentary skill of the member from Westchester. Mr.
Tilden never forgot this service, and tried in after years in many ways to show his appreciation and gratitude. He thought that
Husted, from his associations and intimacies, would join the Greeley movement, which might peril his political future, and at great
inconvenience and trouble, he conveyed early information to the General of the Republican victory in North Carolina, which virtually
decided the contest against the editor of the Tribune.
Our departed friend saw, as no other public man has been permitted to observe, the triumphs and defeats, the hopes and
disappointments, the joys and sorrows, the realities and the romance of political careers. Every conspicuous figure in either party
during the past quarter of a century has been his associate and his friend. I have referred to his relations with the men who received
the honors, and at times controlled the organization of the Republican Party in our State. But he was with Tilden when that
statesman was hovering between fame and oblivion, and enjoyed his familiar intimacy and confidence during his gubernatorial term.
As a veteran leader in the Assembly, he witnessed the meteoric advent of Mr. Cleveland in Albany, and divined the power which has
developed such phenomenal strength in the State and in the country. He was serving his fourth term in the Legislature when a
member from Chemung, then scarcely known beyond the boundaries of his county, began a career which has harvested the
lieutenant-governorship and chief magistracy of our State, and United States Senator, and made David B. Hill a potent force in the
counsels of his party. Speakers of the Assembly George B. Sloan and George H. Sharpe, Titus Sheard and George Z. Erwin,
Fremont Cole and William F. Sheehan, Robert P. Bush and William Sulzer, were not only his associates but his pupils and prize
winners in parliamentary law.
There is no talent more common than the ability to speak, and none more rare than the gift of speaking so as to command the
attention and substantial assent of the audience. The ordinary talker in a deliberative body kills time and murders patience, irritates
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the indifferent, and tires his friends. Real debating power is a gift, as brilliant as it is useful. It does not consist in elaborate effort, in
the length of the speech, in superiority of logic, grace of diction, or rhetorical finish. Any or all of these may prove a detriment,
though, with the master, they are tools to be used, or not, as the occasion may require. Many a massive structure which the orator
has spent hours in erecting, has been demolished, and has buried its author under its ruins, by the dynamite of a ten minutes'
speech. Legislatures fear bores and resent pedagogues. They love good fighters and hard hitters.
Like veteran troops, they do not want to be instructed but to be led. They may sleep through a ponderous oration of Charles
Sumner, and rise with delight to greet an incisive sarcasm of Thaddeus Stevens. There are occasions when a labored effort is
necessary to outline or defend a policy, or to appeal to the party or the country. But in the exigencies of daily discussion it is the
crisp, lucid, and direct debater who carries or defeats measures.
The skilful parliamentarian knows instinctively the temper of the House. His greatest triumphs are in humoring its moods. No
member was ever more complete master of this art than General Husted. No member ever passed or defeated so many bills. His
speeches were rarely a half an hour in length, and most of them not over ten minutes. He captured the attention of the Assembly
with his first sentence, and had its approval before he closed. He was not speaking for posterity, but to carry his point. The debate
would drag wearily on. The impatient House would have listened to the dry statistician, and the dreary logician, to the spread eagle
orator careering among the constellations, colliding with the planets and strewing the floor with star dust, and to the exhaustive and
exhausting essayist with whom all arguments are alike important, and the quantity of whose matter obscures its quality. Suddenly, a
ringing voice, shouting "Mr. Speaker," would rouse every one, like an electric shock. The flashing eyes of the Bald Eagle of
Westchester would cast a sweeping glance about the Chamber, and arrest universal attention.
The weak positions taken by his enemy would be quickly turned, the reasons for his side as quickly and succinctly stated, a burst of
humor would give the laugh of friends and enemies alike, to one adversary, and a biting sarcasm to the delight of the audience,
pierce another, and the tired and impatient House hailing him as their deliverer would follow his lead. He was the friend and
protector of young members. Few positions are more difficult and embarrassing than those of a new member, whose constituency
have elected him to pass certain measures. He is ignorant alike of the rules of the Assembly, and of Jefferson's Manual. He soon
finds himself lost in a labyrinth from which he can extricate neither himself nor his bills. He is in despair between his impotency at
the Capitol, and his waning prestige and popularity at home. His colleagues, as a rule, are too much absorbed in their own to heed
or care for his matters.
The veteran member from Westchester was ever watchful for such signs of distress. Even while the House was smiling at the
bungling efforts of the proposer of the bill, or derisively laughing at his mistakes, a masterhand would take hold of the measure, and
its easy and uninterrupted movement would seem inspired by the wand of a magician.
The hostility of his party leaders would often consign him to minor places on the committees, and the rear rank among his
associates, and yet before the session was half over, his unequalled talent on the floor and the devoted following of new members
whom he had assisted or rescued, would put him in his proper place, and make the leaders, temporarily at least, his suppliants. He
was so fair a political opponent, and always so ready cheerfully to help members of the other party on matters which were not
partisan, that they were only too glad to reciprocate when occasion offered. This assistance was of great service to him in several
crises of his career. There were times when it might have been good politics for the Democrats to have joined with the organization
of his own party to crush the General out. But they never did. When the question related solely to his personal fortunes, and his
position in the House, they did what he asked, and often followed his lead in those sudden and audacious assaults upon his
adversaries which totally routed them, and scored for him a significant individual victory.
And yet this dashing fighter, this fierce cavalier, this most reckless and daring of combatants, was incapable of harboring or retaining
an enmity. He never knew the feeling, which is the luxury of some natures, of hate. If he had not been so buoyant, supremely
hopeful, and sincere, he might justly have been charged with regarding politics as a game, with the gambler's admiration for the
winner and sympathy for the loser. He was a thorough partisan, and during all his life did yeoman's service for his party.
He could not understand why differences of political faith, or policy, should lead to personal enmities. The most childish, and the
most frequent exhibition of spleen among politicians, is that of the man in your own, or the opposition party with whom you have a
disagreement growing out of purely political affairs, who thereafter withdraws from you the honor of his recognition or acquaintance.
It shows both the vulnerable places in that statesman's armor, and an appreciation by himself of his nod, absurdly disproportionate
to its value. It is a practice, which so grows by indulgence, that its proud possessor is sometimes himself in doubt whether the
person he meets may not be on the list of the excommunicated, and groping helplessly in the Cimmerian darkness which envelops
all those whose atmosphere is not illumined by his approving smile. It was never necessary for General Husted to consult a
memorandum book before he spoke to a man. He cordially greeted everybody, and that one the most warmly with whom he had the
last battle. If he was worsted, he was the first to compliment his adversary upon his victory, and if he was himself the victor, he
doubly disarmed his enemy by the generosity of his treatment. He loved to gather about his hospitable table his legislative, or party
opponents, and discuss the fields they had fought, the feints, the assaults, the retreats, the false movements, the mistaken
manoeuvres and recount with hilarious glee, the unexpected stroke which had turned the flank of the enemy, and won the day.
Those who have never been in public life, or active in politics, know nothing of their exquisite pleasures, and keen disappointments.
It is the compensations of a career which make life worth the living. If it was all joy, or all sorrow, there would be nothing in it. The
politician is always either in paradise or purgatory, and he is ever struggling to stay in the one sphere, or to get out of the other. The
intensity and strain, the uncertainties and accidents of politics make possible the warmest attachments among politicians. This is
specially true between those of opposite faith. They fight only on broad lines, and are free from the irritations of faction feuds. They
generously appreciate the good qualities and abilities, each of the other, and are bound together in bonds of closest friendship.
General Husted was peculiarly felicitous in making, and happy in retaining, these relations. His most ardent admirers, and steadfast
friends were to be found among the leaders of the opposition. It was the chivalrous spirit and actions of the man which won the
applause and affections of his political foes. There were few deeper or more sincere mourners at his funeral than those whom he
had conquered, or been defeated by, on many a fair field, and in many a fair fight.
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The Legislature, and its popular Assembly, concentrate the attention of the people much more than the executive or the judicial
branches of free government. The representatives are in closer relations with the constituencies. It is from the lower house, as a
rule, that the highest honors are attained. Five of General Husted's colleagues have been Governors, two of them United States
Senators, three Lieutenant-governors, eighteen State officers, fourteen have been members of Congress, twelve have been
elevated to the Bench, and many have served with distinction in important positions under the Federal Government.
There is a peculiar fascination about the three chief positions in a deliberative body. The Speaker, the leader of the House, and the
leader of the opposition, are the great men of the hour, and have rare opportunities for permanent fame. The very few whose names
we can recall in our century of Congressional life, who have attained distinction in any of these positions, indicate how rare is
parliamentary ability of the first order; and the limited number who were eminent in all three departments, illustrate the genius
required to fill them. A successful leader of the House may prove a poor general for the opposition, and be a total failure as a
Speaker. We have, as yet, produced but two statesmen who were conspicuously great, and unequalled both on the floor and as
presiding officers, Henry Clay and James G. Elaine.
The judicial impartiality of the Chair, and the blind partisanship of the floor, require experience, and qualities so distinct, and
antagonistic, that their possession rarely appears more than once in a generation. There have been some, but not many, who
excelled General Husted as a leader of the House, and some, but not many, who surpassed him as a leader of the opposition, but
not even Clay or Elaine were his superiors as a Presiding Officer.
The celerity with which he would unravel a tangle of cumulative, and contradictory motions and amendments, the certainty of his
positions, the clearness and directness of his decisions, and the ability with which he brought order out of chaos, and quieted the
most disorderly and tumultuous assemblage, were strokes of genius. He never made a mistake which he could not correct and
never a misstep from which he could not instantly land on firmer ground.
It well repaid a visit to the Capitol to see Speaker Husted preside. The gratification of witnessing an important thing done perfectly, is
almost as great as to do it oneself. The artistic instinct is universal, and all enjoy the work of a master artist. Some member would be
occupying the chair temporarily. The House would be in confusion, and many members shouting at the same time for recognition
would stop business. Angry altercations would be going on in the aisles, and in front of the desk.
The chairman would pound with his gavel, and threaten to hand the more obstreperous members into the custody of the Sergeantat-Arms,
only to be either unnoticed or laughed at. Suddenly would sound through the Chamber a sharp rap, succeeded by another
and more emphatic one. Silence would instantly follow.
The Speaker would peremptorily order that members take their seats, then instantly utilizing the breathless silence, he would either
end the wrangle by a decision which no one dared question, or recognize the member whom he knew could hold the floor, or direct
the Clerk to proceed with the regular order. The transformation from riot to business was because the leader had resumed the chair,
and the House bowed submissive to its master.
No one but he, at least at Albany, has ever been able to make the gavel talk. He won his greatest triumphs in the closing days of the
session. This is always a critical period for the Speaker, and a time full of peril to the State, and the reputation of the Legislature.
Party bills have been kept behind to avoid the scrutiny of the opposition, and bad bills held in reserve, in the hope of passing them
during the confusion of the last hours. The lobby is alert and audacious and the speculators in legislation both inside and outside the
Legislature, are exhausting the resources of cunning, and testing the elasticity of the rules to pass their bills, their resolutions and
their schemes. It is the work of the week of adjournment which has at times done incalculable injury to the Commonwealth, and
rendered some sessions infamous. Here is the Speaker's opportunity and his danger. He will either guide the House, or the House
will ride rough shod over him. General Husted was thoroughly familiar with the history and needs of the State. He made himself
acquainted with the bills which were pending, both in Senate and Assembly. He knew the inside of all the conspiracies and
combinations, and through the veneer of alleged public interests saw the strike, and behind the mask of a fraudulent reformer, the
striker. Business would proceed with the rapidity of lightning, and the dazed members be either frantic or paralyzed in the whirl of
motions, speeches, reports and roll calls.
There was in that maddened throng one cool, supreme, controlling mind. With a skill, which was like necromancy, and a daring
which silenced dissent, he sifted the mass pouring from the hopper of committees, and sub-committees, and dropped the bad out of
its order, and sent the good through.
The period from 1869, when General Husted was first elected to the Legislature, and including 1892 when he died, has been most
eventful in the history of the Nation and of our State.
It runs from Grant's first to Cleveland's second election, and from Hoffman to Flower. It is fruitful of popular revulsions, and revivals
of prosperity. It is rich in materials for the historian, the political economist, and the political philosopher. It has been singularly full of,
and remarkably fatal to great men, and powerful organizations. The re-election of General Grant, and the tragedy which clouded the
mighty brain, and ended the eventful life of Horace Greeley; the threatening clouds of revolution which hovered over the claims of
Samuel J. Tilden, and their dispersion by the inauguration of Rutherford B. Hayes; the political revolution against the organization
which ended in the nomination of Garfield, and the loss of its fruits by his assassination; the dynamic and romantic events which
made Cleveland President, and the receding tide which carried Harrison into the White House, and the electoral results which after
thirty-two years, have changed the politics and policy of the National Government by Mr. Cleveland's second election, with the
Senate and House of Representatives behind him; these, and the great financial and industrial measures which have had such
potent influence upon the welfare of our country, are the national milestones of these wonderful years.
The rapid rise and the rough destruction of the forces which made Hoffman Governor; the patriotic combination which gave a
hundred thousand majority to General Dix; the rising tide against corruption in the State and City of New York, which carried Tilden
to the executive chair; the easy succession of Lucius Robinson, and the reclamation of the State by Alonzo B. Cornell; the protest
against federal and machine dictation which gave Cleveland nearly two hundred thousand majority, and the more recent contests
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which ended in the elections of Hill and Flower; and the struggles and their issues which are fruitful of bitter controversy for a
generation to come, form the most varied, eventful, and interesting chapter in the history of our Commonwealth.
It will ever remain the unique distinction of General Husted that, though subject to the ordeal of an annual election, he held place
and power during this "Wreck of matter and crush of Worlds."
As a Legislator, he favored all political, moral, and social reforms. On such questions he rose above party considerations. He
fearlessly advocated the suffrage for women. He was the most efficient friend of the Union soldier. His best efforts, and most
effective speeches, were for high license, or other wise regulations of the liquor traffic, for the protection of the American Sunday, for
religious toleration in legislation, and for better and more humane care of the afflicted and unfortunate who are the wards of the
State.
Through all his varied career he cared nothing for yesterday, did his best for to-day, and was confident of to-morrow. The rainbow of
hope always spanned his sky. The elasticity of his temperament was the marvel of those who were intimate with him. He knew
defeat, but had no comprehension of despair.
He saw in misfortunes which others regarded as calamities, a providential interposition that he might reap richer rewards in some
other direction. Faith, hope and charity were the mainsprings of his thoughts and actions. He set a very high value upon political
honors, and had a low estimate of wealth. Conversations which are so frequent in all circles and at most gatherings, concerning
schemes for making fortunes, or the fabulous success of lucky individuals, would neither interest nor detain him; but he would travel
a thousand miles on an hour's notice to perform a public duty, or attend an important meeting of political leaders. He knew little
about Wall Street or the combinations which, if successful, accumulate sudden wealth; but he loved to talk with farmers about their
affairs, and with workingmen about their interests. If some omnipotent power had offered him the choice between being the richest
man in the world or Governor of the State of New York—with a certainty of having a narrow income for the rest of his life after
retiring from office—he would unhesitatingly have chosen the governorship. He believed in himself and his surroundings. He felt that
others had environments covered by the same general nomenclature, but that no one ever lived who possessed so gifted and good
a wife, such dutiful and promising children, such worthy and devoted friends, and moved amidst such happy and satisfactory
conditions. He never did an injury to any man, but he helped hundreds to positions of profit and trust. Fully one-quarter of his time
was devoted to assisting the young or the unfortunate, and his name is heard in the grateful prayers of numberless households.
Patriotic public servant and useful citizen, faithful friend and charming companion, the State which honored him, and which he
honored, has enrolled him on the list of her distinguished sons, and we, the Governor, the State officers, the members of Senate
and Assembly, and people in private station, who knew and loved him, will ever cherish his memory, feeling that our lives are better
and brighter because he entered into them. Dear old friend, hail and farewell.
Note: Bro. Husted was the sponsor of the bill in the NY State Assembly that created the Adirondack State Park.
The New York State Forest Preserve was created on May 15, 1885
“Life Sketches of Government Officers and Members of the Legislature of the State of New York,” 1874. Pages 121-126.
http://books.google.com/books?id=iYsDAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA230&dq=%22William+R.+Knapp%22#PPA1,M1
MEMBER OF THE ASSEMBLY.
JAMES W. HUSTED, SPEAKER.
At the caucus which named the subject of the present article for the Speakership, the apt
remark was made that "Gen. HUSTED is a born Speaker." The allusion was so peculiarly
applicable, and so well described Mr. HUSTED'S gifts in this regard, that it was caught up and
embodied in numerous commendatory notices which then appeared in the press of the State
concerning the new presiding officer.
Certainly no other phrase of equal brevity could so well express the fact. Gen. HUSTED'S
qualifications for the Speakership — a position which admittedly requires qualifications of a high
order — are implanted in his very nature. They are born within him rather than acquired. No
amount of training can give to any man the quickness of perception, the prompt judgment or the
coolness of demeanor, which pre-eminently distinguish the gentleman from Westchester, while
the most thorough parliamentarian and statesman would undoubtedly fail in the Speaker's chair
did he not possess precisely those qualities.
The canvass for the Speakership of the present Assembly was memorable in several respects.
It is not frequently the case that a legislative body contains so many men of mark, and ability as
the one now assembled at the capitol. It was natural, therefore, that several of them should be
spoken of as the prospective parliamentary head of the House; and it is a noticeable fact that all of those so spoken of would have
honored the office had they been called upon to occupy it.
From the first, however, Mr. HUSTED was universally recognized, from his long and honorable service as a legislator, his perfect
familiarity with parliamentary tactics and canons, and the extremely valuable mental and personal characteristics already spoken of,
as the fittest man for the honor. Even his opponents — and there were many of them—conceded that, in a practical sense, at least,
he stood almost without an equal in this connection. His competitor, Mr. PRINCE, a man of far different mold, of exalted character,
and possessing equal if not superior accomplishments of another stamp, was a formidable rival, and had another than Gen.
HUSTED been in the field he would undoubtedly have been chosen by acclamation. The contest between the two gentlemen, while
carried on throughout in a friendly spirit, was stubbornly fought on both sides. But Mr. PRINCE suffered no disparagement or loss of
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self-respect in being beaten by such a man as Gen. HUSTED; and to the latter the result was not only honorable and gratifying, but
a fitting acknowledgment of his five years' faithful service as a law-maker.
Gen. HUSTED'S personal record, during the twenty years or more he has mingled in the politics of the State, has been a brilliant
one. Born in Bedford, NY, on 31 Oct 1833, and descended from an ancestry chiefly remarkable for honesty and respectability, he
enjoyed fair opportunities during his youth. He prepared for college at the Bedford Academy, in his native town, and at quite an early
age entered Yale College, from which he graduated on reaching his majority in 1854. While in college he stood well with his class,
and was complimented with university honors when he graduated. Subsequently he studied law with EDWARD WELLS, of
Peekskill, and was admitted to the bar in 1857. As a lawyer he possesses fine abilities, and is regarded with confidence and respect.
His political life has been somewhat varied, and not entirely devoid of vicissitudes. In the early years of his career he was identified
with the American party and served two years as Secretary of the State Council of that short-lived organization. He was selected
Town Superintendent of Common Schools, in 1855, on the Know-Nothing ticket, and in 1858 he was chosen by the same party as
one of the School Commissioners of Westchester county. But in 1859 " Know-Nothingism" degenerated into a mere tender to the
Democratic party of the day, and Mr. HOSTED became disgusted and left it, feeling justly that he could not consent to a betrayal of
the principles upon which the party was founded.
During the Utica Convention, held in that year, when the "Hybrid" ticket was formed, he published a protest against it and joined the
Republican party. In 1860 he was appointed Deputy Superintendent of the State Insurance Department by Hon. WILLIAM BARNES,
the then Superintendent, and during the presidential campaign of that year was Vice-President of the large and flourishing club of
Albany "Wide Awakes," of which Hon. J. MEREDITH .READ, Jr., now minister to Greece, was President. During this campaign Mr.
HUSTED performed effective service for the Republican cause.
Since 1862 he has been Harbor Master of the city of New York, and, until recently, was Deputy Captain of the port. In the fall of
1868 Mr. HUSTED was elected to the Assembly from the Third district of Westchester county by 307 majority. He made an
honorable record as a debater and as a legislator during his first session, being Chairman of the Committee on Federal Relations,
and member of the Committee on Commerce and Navigation. The next year he was re-elected by 1,144 majority, running 837
ahead of his ticket, and 417 ahead in his own town. Since then he has been regularly re-elected, his majority in 1871 reaching the
unprecedented figure of 1,509. In 1872, owing to local complications and the defection of Liberal Republicans, it was reduced to
502, but last fall he again demonstrated his popularity and astonished friends as well as opponents by achieving a majority of 1,864.
He served during the last four terms on the Committees on Commerce and Navigation, Ways and Means, Grievances, and Federal
Relations, being again Chairman of the latter Committee in 1872, and Chairman of Education in 1873. In 1872 he was also
Chairman of Rules, Local and Special Laws, and Congressional Apportionment. In 1873 he was Chairman also of Congressional
Apportionment.
Gen. HUSTED has been frequently honored with responsible positions by the party to which he belongs, and he in turn has honored
the party with his best efforts, but his sphere of useful activity has not been confined to politics. He is one of the most prominent
members of the Masonic Fraternity in the State, and has reached to the highest honors in the order, being a member of the Order of
Knights Templar, and entitled to wear the jewel of the 33d degree. For several years he has held the rank of D. D. G. M., and is now
Junior Grand Warden. He has also been Judge Advocate on the staff of the Seventh Brigade, New York State Militia.
On 26 Mar 1873, he was nominated by Gov. Dlx to be Major-General of the Fifth Division of the National Guard, in place of Gen.
GATES who had resigned, and he was immediately confirmed by the Senate. The appointment was universally recognized as an
eminently fit one, and none were more hearty in their congratulations than his fellow members of the last Assembly. On the evening
after the announcement of his appointment the following resolution was offered by a Democratic member, and unanimously
adopted:
Resolved, That always feeling a deep interest in the personal and official relations of our fellow members, and a warm regard for
them individually, we desire to express our heartfelt thanks to Gov. Dlx for his promotion of the Hon. JAMES W. HUSTED to the
command of the military forces of the Fifth Division, and that as he has been first in peace, we know he will, in the event of a great
military necessity, be first in war, and in the future first in the hearts of his countrymen.
The General's popularity among the members of the National Guard is well shown by the fact that he was unanimously elected, in
January last, as President of the State Military Association.
General HUSTED has enjoyed a pre-eminence among politicians and legislators by reason of his splendid abilities. Few men in the
State excel him in those accomplishments which mark the successful statesman. He possesses a clear and brilliant intellect, sound
judgment, a ready off-hand manner, and is, withal, an acute reasoner and polished orator; and when we add that his gifts of mind
and heart are never used to further corrupt or doubtful schemes, we complete a catalogue which is infinitely to the credit of our
subject.
His dashing style of debate, and the lightning-like rapidity with which he grasps the situation of the moment, together with his bold,
concise and incisive mode of argument, and sometimes .startling readiness at repartee, render him not only formidable to -his
opponents, but exceedingly popular among all classes of men. He is a master of the art of sarcasm, and, as he usually veils his
keen and merciless retorts in elegant language and apt classical allusion, the wounds made by his sharp thrusts produce much
more pleasure than pain, even to those upon whom they are inflicted. In the most exciting passages of partisan debate, Mr.
HUSTED is ever courteous and cool, while in argument he is clear, connected and logical, his more ambitious speeches being
frequently enriched with pointed anecdote and scholarly illustration. He speaks very rapidly, and has surprising command of
language, while his thorough knowledge of parliamentary rules enables him to be perfectly at home in the most bewildering crossfire
of motions and counter-motions characteristic of legislative filibustering and bushwhacking.
Socially, the Speaker possesses rare gifts. Genial and talented, a brilliant conversationalist, and an adept in all the accomplishments
and qualities which constitute the gentleman, he is peculiarly fitted to ornament society and win friendship and esteem. His
unaffected manners and sterling qualities have rendered him extremely popular with the people at large, while the same traits, in
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connection with his solid attainments, have secured him hosts of friends in the field of letters and politics. He is, in every respect, an
ornament to the Speaker's chair.
1880 Census: Peekskill, Westchester, New York
James W. HUSTED Self M 46 NY Lawyer NY NY
Hellen HUSTED Wife M 39 NY Keeps House NY NY
Carrie HUSTED Dau S 14 NY NY NY
Willie HUSTED Son S 11 NY NY NY
Nillie HUSTED Dau S 7 NY NY NY
Hattie HUSTED Dau S 2 NY NY NY
Harriet SOUTHARD Other 68 NY NY NY (probably his mother-in-law)
Hannah JORDON Other 47 NY NY NY
Margret MC CARTY Other S 23 IRE IRE IRE
Appendix II
Major Ebenezer Lockwood
WILL
I, Ebenezer Lockwood, of Poundridge, in the County of Westchester and State of New York, Esquire, being advanced in age, but of
sound disposing mind, memory and understanding, do this tenth day of August, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred
and nineteen, make and publish this my last Will and Testament in manner following that is to say: First. I order and direct that all
my just debts and funeral expenses be paid and discharged.
Item. I give, devise and bequeath unto my son Ezra Lockwood, his heirs and assigns forever, two equal shares or tenth parts of all
the lands and tenements I may die seized of.
Item. I give, devise and bequeath unto my son Horatio Lockwood, his heirs and assigns forever, two equal shares or tenth parts of
all the lands and tenements I may die seized of. Item. I give, devise and bequeath unto each of my daughters Betsey Hunt and
Ruhamah Read, one share or tenth part of my real estate, lands and tenements, and to their respective heirs and assigns forever.
Item. I give and bequeath unto my daughter Hannah Osborn, the use or rents and profits of one share or tenth part of my real estate
that I may die seized of during her natural life, leaving it to the discretion of my executor to give her the use or occupancy of said
share, or to pay her the rents and profits thereof annually, and at her decease I order said share or tenth part to be divided among
her several heirs or children in equal portions, unless it should in the opinion of my executors be thought most beneficial to sell the
same and divide the moneys arising therefrom among her heirs in manner aforesaid, in which case they are hereby authorized to
act as in their discretion they may judge best for the interest of said heirs. Item. I give and bequeath to my daughter Mary Thatcher,
the use or rents and profits of one share or tenth part of my real estate (in the same manner and under the like conditions that I have
given to my daughter Hannah, and at her decease I order the same to be divided among the heirs of my said daughter Mary in the
same manner as herein directed to be divided among the heirs of my daughter Hannah. Menu I give, devise and bequeath unto my
daughter Clarissa Richards one-tenth part of my lands as aforesaid to hold during her natural life, and at her decease I give, devise
and bequeath the same to her children Betsey A. Cox and Ebenezer James Richards, or to the survivors of them and to their
respective heirs and assigns forever. Item. I order and direct that my executors hereinafter named within some reasonable time after
my decease sell and convey one equal share or tenth part of my real estate (and to dispose of the same at public or private sale at
their discretion), and the moneys arising from such sale I order my executors to put at interest on good real security, and to apply
the interest arising from said sum toward the support and education of such of the children of my son Ebenezer, deceased, as may
be under the age of fourteen years, and I do hereby order my executors to pay the interest aforesaid annually to Sarah the mother
of said children, or to my daughter Betsey Hunt whom I hereby appoint the Guardian for the purpose of receiving and applying the
interest of said infant children for the purposes aforesaid at her discretion until the youngest of said children arrives to lawful age, at
which time I order the said sum to be equally divided among all the children or the survivors of my said son Ebenezer, deceased,
equally. Item. I order and direct that my beloved wife Sarah have a comfortable maintenance out of my estate, and that the same be
furnished by my heirs and legatees in proportion as they may severally share in my estate, and I do give my said wife one cow, one
bed and bedding for the same, and the use of so much furniture as my executors may judge necessary during her natural life in lieu
of her dower in my estate. And as to all the rest of my estate whatsoever I give and bequeath the same in the proportion as they
may receive of my real estate to my children and grandchildren after the payment of my just debts and the expenses of settling my
estate. Lastly—I do hereby constitute and appoint my said daughter Betsey Hunt
Executrix, and my said son Ezra Lock wood, and my sons-in-law Samuel Head and Jesse Richards, and my nephew Ebenezer
Wood, Jr., Executors of this my last Will and Testament, hereby revoking all former Wills by me made. In witness whereof, I have
hereunto set my hand and seal the day and year first above written. EBENEZER LOCKWOOD [SEAL.]
Signed, sealed, published and declared by the said Ebenezer Lockwood as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of
us, who, at his request and in his presence, and in the presence of each other, have subscribed our names as witnesses thereto.
MARY WEED,
CHARLES DIKEMAN,
SHANNON FERRIS.
Admitted to Probate by Ebenezer White, Junior, Surrogate of Westchester County, August 25th, 1821, and recorded in Liber J of
Wills at page 200.
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SKETCH OF MAJOR EBENEZER LOCKWOOD OF THE REVOLUTIONARY ARMY.
BY HIS Son JUDGE EZRA LOCKWOOD. WRITTEN PREVIOUS TO THE YEAR 1853.
Ebenezer Lockwood, late of Poundridge, in Westchester County, deceased, was born in Stamford, Conn., on the 31st of March,
1737, and was the fourth son of Joseph Lockwood who emigrated to Poundridge in the spring of the year 1743, and settled in the
central part of the town (now village), on a right of land belonging to one of the original proprietors of the Stamford Patent, so culled,
and which fell within the jurisdiction of New York.
He continued on the farm with his father engaged in agricultural pursuits during his minority, but soon after engaged in various other
pursuits of extensive usefulness.
Soon after the demise of his father, which occurred June 15th, 1757, the paternal patrimony, consisting of some four or five hundred
acres, was divided between his older brother and himself, being the only surviving sons, which still remains in the possession of the
descendants after the lapse of a century.
It was the circumstance of a pound being erected on that handsome ridge of land now owned, by one of his sons, that gave to the
town the name of Poundridge.
At the age of 25 he was engaged in merchandise, and was appointed one of his Majesty's Justices of the Peace and one of the
Quorum, which offices he held until the commencement of the Revolutionary War. At the breaking out of hostilities, to wit, on the
19th of October, 1775, he was commissioned a Major in the Regiment of Westchester County Militia, commanded by Col. Thomas
Thomas, and was in active service during most of the campaign of '76, when the enemy took possession of the lower part of
Westchester County.
In the month of May, 1776, he attended the Provincial Congress then sitting in New York, having been elected to that office on the
third Tuesday in April previous for one year, and was in continued service from that period until the close of the war, either as Major,
Member of the Provincial Congress, Committee of Safety, and other posts of active duty in favor of American Independence, until its
final acknowledgment by Great Britain in 1783. After the Declaration of Independence he was elected a member of the Provincial
Convention for forming a constitution of Government for the State, and as such aided in the formation and adoption of the first
Constitution and was returned as a member of the Legislature for several years after the close of the war. Other stations of public
employment also engaged much of his time and called him from the domestic circle at considerable sacrifice of interest and comfort.
His unwearied zeal and activity in the American cause also was accompanied with much pecuniary loss and sacrifice of property. In
the year 1779 when the whole county of Westchester was the theatre of blood, rapine and plunder, and life and property
endangered from foes without and traitors within, his hospitable dwelling was opened as a military cantonment and rendezvous of
Col. Sheldon's regiment of Light Dragoons. The regiment was engaged in frequent skirmishes with the enemy, and served as a
protection to the Northern frontier from the incursions of the Tories and British from below the lines in the neighborhood of North
Castle.
It was for the capture of this regiment that Sir Henry Clinton resolved on sending Col. B. Tarleton with a detachment of the Royal
Dragoons of the 17th Regiment and a detachment of about 300 men on the night of July 2d, 1779.
The precaution of the Committee of Safety had placed a spy by the name of Luther Kinnicut in the enemy's camp below the lines,
who on the day previous gave notice to Col. Sheldon of the intended attack in a short time, but did not know the precise day. The
night proved stormy, and the torrents of rain which fell would have retarded the progress of a commander of less intrepidity than
Tarleton. Sheldon apprehended no danger, on account of the storm. Col. Moylan's regiment was daily expected to join Sheldon, and
had the junction been effected before Tarleton's arrival, from the well known bravery and courage of Moylan and his troops, the fate
of Tarleton would not have been less disastrous than he received from the old Wagoner at the Cowpens.
Sentinels were placed about a mile from the Major's on the north and south roads leading to Bedford. The sentinels on the north
road, at early dawn, descried a large body of Dragoons under rapid movement, who passed the junction of the road leading from
Bedford to Poundridge and continued on toward Ridgefield. This mistake of the enemy in pursuing the Ridgefield road for half a mile
or more, gave time for the vidette to return and give the notice. Sheldon, supposing that it might have been Col. Moylan's regiment
who were expected, dispatched Major Benjamin Tallmadge with a small detachment to reconnoitre and bring back intelligence of the
true state of things. About half way to the junction of the road, as Tallmadge ascended a hill where the, road turned to the right, from
the uneveness of the ground, an object could not be seen except at a very short distance ahead, and at this place Tallmadge met
Tarleton under full charge, wheeled and returned at full speed with Tarleton at his heels; while Sheldon with his command were
preparing to mount their horses which were tied to the fence on the east side of the road by the meeting-house. A general rout
ensued, while Sheldon's regiment moved off down the road leading to Stamford for about three-fourths of a mile, then separated at
the junction of the road leading to Canaan, with Tarleton's Dragoons harassing his rear, killing, wounding and taking prisoners some
18 or 20. The enemy lost one killed, four prisoners, and wounded uncertain, one horse killed and four taken.
Among the prisoners captured by Tarleton was Alsop Hunt, a son-in-law of Major Lockwood, who, after being rifled of a gold watch,
money, and other things of value about his person, was carried to New York and lodged in the Provost prison.
The pursuit lasted about four or five hours, when Tarleton, being unable to overtake Sheldon, returned, burnt the Major's house with
most of its contents, permitting one of his soldiers cruelly to cut and maltreat his wife, drove off his valuable stock of sixteen cows,
burnt the meeting-house, and were about committing further outrages when the militia, under command of Major Leavenworth,
began to approach and Tarleton fled with all the precipitation he came.
Major Lockwood, thus being destitute of a house or home, and apprehending further visits from the enemy, found an asylum for his
family in the house of a friend in Ridgefield, while he continued in active service to his country in various stations of civil and military
duty to the close of the war. Nothing disheartened by this reverse of fortune, he soon returned to his farm, converted a barn into a
dwelling, was honored with the appointment of first Judge of the County Court, frequently elected to the Legislature from
Westchester County, was intrusted with loaning the moneys of the State in the County, and other responsible offices.
150

When peace was established with Great Britain, the County, through the villany of Col.___ , was destitute of a Court house and jail.
The location of a public building is always calculated to excite the interested feelings of different sections of the territory to be
accommodated, and it was so with Westchester County. Judge Lockwood was one of the committee to settle this vexed question of
locality, and through his influence, principally, the present arrangement of court houses was effected, which has proved to give
general satisfaction for more than half a century.
About the year 1795 he retired from all public employment, and spent the remainder of his days in the circle of his family and friends
until his death, 29th July, 1821, beloved and esteemed by all who knew him.
Official service of Ebenezer Lockwood, of Poundridge, Westchester Co., N. Y., viz.:
1. Justice of the Peace and one of the Quorum under English Govt.
2. 1st Major 2d Regt. Westchester Co. Militia, Commission October 14th, 1775.
3. Member Committee of Safety and N. Y. Provincial Congress for Westchester Co.
4. Member 1st Constitutional Convention for N. Y.
5. Member 2d Board of Regents of the University of N. Y.
6. 1st Judge Westchester Co., 1791-1793.
7. Member of Assembly for Westchester Co., 1778-79 and 1784-88.
8. Supervisor Poundridge, 1772-79, 1782-86, and 1802-6.
9. One of Commissioners appointed by Legislature for selecting county seat of Westchester Co.
From Force's Annals, vol. 4, 4th series, p. 423.
"On December 18th, 1775, Major Lockwood was appointed on the committee to revise and amend the militia laws."
The Committee of Safety, New York, April 17th, 1776, appointed Ebenezer Lockwood and Gilbert Drake, a Committee for the
County of Westchester, to erect Saltpetre works, and the same day Col. Drake informed the Committee, that:
"John Thomas, Jr., Ebenezer Lockwood, and himself had bought one thousand barrels of pork, and six hundred barrels of flour."
(lb., p. 1447.)
"At a meeting of the New York Provincial Congress, May 18th, 1776, Major Ebenezer Lockwood and others filed certificates of
election, dated April 3d, to represent Westchester County in Congress for twelve months." (Ib., p. 1310; to., p. 1357.)
"The Committee of Safety of New York appointed Ebenezer Lockwood, First Major, Gilbert Lockwood, Captain, and Joseph
Lockwood, Captain." (76., 691.)
From Force's Annals, vol. 4, 4th series, p. 385.
"To the Honourable the Provincial Congress of the Colony of New York.
We the Committee for the County of Westchester, do humbly certify, that, at the election of Delegates to represent the said County
in the next Provincial Congress, to be held in New York, the 14th instant, which was held at the Court House of the said County,
Colonel Lewis Graham, Stephen Ward, Esq.,
Colonel Joseph Drake, Robert Graham, Esq.,
John Thomas, Esq., Mr. William Paulding,
Major Ebenezer Lockwood, Colonel Pierre Van Cortlandt, and Colonel Gilbert Drake, were duly elected, agreeably to the resolves of
the Provincial Congress, to represent this County until the Second Tuesday in May next, and that it was voted by the people that
any three of the said Deputies should act for this County.
By order of the Committee,
GILBERT DRAKE,
Chairman.
Dated the 7th day of November, 1775.
A true copy from the minutes taken by
MICAH TOWNSEND,
Clerk of the Committee."
Force's American Archives, p. 1563, vol. 1, 5th series.
The New York Committee of Safety met at Fishkill, Tuesday, A.M., September 3d, 1776, Major Ebenezer Lockwood being present,
at which a letter from Gen. George Washington was received, dated September 1st, 1776, in which he asked the Commissary to
purchase cattle and aid to defend King's Bridge, when it was "ordered, that Major Lockwood proceed immediately to West Chester
County, or elsewhere, and endeavor to see Col. Smith and Col. Remsen in order to obtain intelligence from them of the state of their
respective Regiments, and that he be empowered to order the said Regiments to repair to General Clinton's encampment, at King's
Bridge, in case Col. Smith finds it impracticable, from the disposition of his troops or other circumstances, to transport them to Long
Island, and that he inform Col. Smith, in confidence, that means have been devised, and are now actually carrying into execution, to
give him assistance in opposing the enemy on Long Island."
And Resolved, "That Major Lockwood be empowered to impress horses wherever he may have occasion for the same to expedite
his journey;" and after other resolutions the following was passed:
"Resolved unanimously, That it be recommended to the Committees of West Chester, Horse Neck, Stamford, and Norwalk,
diligently to watch all boats passing from the main to Long Island, and to suffer no soldier belonging to any Regiment in the service
151

of this State to pass over to Long Island armed, even though he should produce an officer's pa>*s; and that Major Lockwood be
requested and authorized to forward copies of this Resolve to the said Committees respectively, by Express, if he finds that Cols.
Smith's and Remsen's Regiments are either dispersed or disbanded, and have received no orders to rendezvous on Long Island. At
the same meeting a letter was received from Philip Livingston, Esq., one of the delegates to the Continental Congress, dated
Philadelphia, August 30th, 1776."
Force's American Archives, p. 1563, vol. 1, 5th series.
September 3d, 1776. The Committee received a letter from General Washington, dated New York, September 1st, 1776, with
important suggestions, and as a result thereof, "Major Lockwood was ordered to West Chester Co., or elsewhere, to see Cols. Smith
and Remsen, etc., etc., and empowered to order their Regiments to repair to General Clinton's Encampment, at High Bridge, etc.,
etc., in case Col. Smith finds it impracticable to transport them to Long Island," etc., etc.
"Resolved, That Major Lockwood be empowered to impress horses, wherever he may have occasion for the same, to expedite his
journey, and the same day the Committee on Safety received information that some of Col. Smith's and Col. Rerusen's levies had
dispersed and disbanded, etc. General Clinton was requested to inquire into the truth of such intelligence, etc., and to detain such
militia, and Major Lockwood was requested to forward copies of this Resolve to the Committees of West Chester, Horse Neck,
Stamford, and Norwalk."
From p. 202, vol. 3, 5th series.
The N. Y. Convention and Committee of Safety met Saturday morning, September 28th, 1776, Major Lockwood being present from
West Chester Co., with Cols. Drake and Cortlandt and Mr. Tomkins, and, later, Major Lockwood was given leave of absence until
next Tuesday evening.
(On page 219.) Die Veneris
9ho., A.M., October 4th, 1776.
The Convention met, Major Lockwood representing West Chester Co. The Commissary General applied to Congress for advice
about 1200 Bbls. pork supplied to the Army. The matter was referred to a special committee, with Major Lockwood as Chairman,
whose very lengthy report is given on page 220, in which occurs this sentence, "Your Committee, however, conceive it beneath the
dignity of this State to demand any alteration respecting the price of said Pork, and have therefore agreed to the following
Resolution:" "Resolved, That in the opinion of this Committee, the Auditor General repair to the Commissary General," etc., etc.,
etc., and then later on, "But as this Convention, zealous for the honor of the State and the success of the common cause, would
carefully avoid every measure which might tend to impede the general service, embarrass the Commissary General in his
department, or raise a suspicion that this Convention was capable of seeking an unreasonable advantage," your Committee, etc.,
etc., etc., recommend that they " be authorized to settle with the Commissary General on the terms he has himself proposed." At the
same meeting (p. 221) a representation was made to the Convention, "that this State is indebted to Nicholas Bayard, Esquire, in the
out ward of the City of New York, for the use of his House, for the security of the publick Records of this State," etc., etc., etc.," now
being deprived of his whole estate by the enemy, payment thereof ought to be made," it was " ordered that Mr. Lockwood, Mr.
Dunscurab, and Mr. Duane be a Committee to state and report the sum reasonably due from this State to Nicholas Bayard, Esquire,
on the account above mentioned."
On October 17th, 1776 (p. 255), the Convention, Major Lockwood being present, passed a long resolution with reference to the
action of the Continental Congress, for the sale and consumption of Bohea Tea, reciting that "many tea holders did, among other
things, allege that they were fast friends to the American cause, and had been induced to import a more than usual quantity of that
article, with a view the better to oppose and defeat the designs of the Ministry and India Company, in selling Tea in the Colonies,
subject to duty," etc., etc., etc., " and the Continental Congress did grant the prayer of the petitioners," etc., etc., and "whereas,
certain Tea holders now refused to dispose of their stock of Tea on hand, designing to postpone the sale thereof until such time as
an artificial scarcity shall induce the women of this State to tempt them to vend it, by offering exorbitant prices," and others " have
sold Tea at double the price allowed by the Congress," and " said unjustifiable and mercenary practices have brought upon them the
resentment of the people, and many riotous proceedings," etc., etc., this Convention for the reason aforesaid, etc., etc., etc., order
the " Committees, etc., to take into custody, from every Tea Merchant, Shopkeeper, or other person," etc., "all the Bohea Tea found
in their possession, over and above the quantity of twenty-five pounds respectively, and appoint some respectable person or
persons to retail the same in small quantities, to any person that may apply to purchase the same, at the rate of six shillings per
pound," etc., which was agreed to, and at the same meeting (p. 257) "a letter was read from Joshua Ambler, Chairman of the
Committee, of Pound Ridge, in West Chester Co., dated the 15th inst., informing that there is danger of the prisoners of war going
off to the enemy, as one of them is already gone to Long Island."
"Thereupon, Resolved, 'That Major Lockwood repair immediately to Pound Ridge and Bedford, in West Chester Co., to inquire into
the state of the prisoners of war confined there, and if he should find it necessary, that he cause the privates to be conveyed under a
proper guard to Woodbury, in the State of Connecticut,' and that the officers who are prisoners on parole to Danbury in the same
State." "Major Lockwood to be furnished with the blank paroles, to be by him filled up for such of the said prisoners as are confined
there on parole, the old paroles to be cancelled, and that Major Lockwood, at his discretion, settle with and advance to the prisoners
the rations and other provisions allowed by the Resolve of Congress, as may appear to have been justly due to them."
Vol. 2, 5th series. DANBURY, October 22d, 1776.
Sir: Having received your letter of the 20th inst., with three officers, who, you inform us, are prisoners of war, and a copy of their
parole; likewise we received them into our custody, and shall endeavor to conduct towards them, agreeable to the resolves of the
Continental Congress in such case made and provided.
By order of the Committee of Inspection, for the town of Danbury, per Thomas Stevens, Chairman.
To Esquire Ebenezer Lockwood, at Pound Ridge, West Chester County.
152

From Force's American Archives, p. 254, October 17th, 1776, vol. 3, 5th series.
The Committee to whom was referred the claim of Mr. Nicholas Bayard, etc., reported the following," that Fifty pounds be allowed
him." On October 17th, 1776, Col. Lockwood was made Chairman of a Committee to which was referred the claim of Jeremiah
Allen.
P. 273. On October 28th, 1776, the following is recorded:
Monday, P.M., October 28th, 1776. Major Lockwood reports that, pursuant to the resolutions of this Committee, on the 8th inst.,
directing him to proceed to Poundridge and Bedford, in West Chester Co., and give directions relative to the prisoners of war at
these places, he proceeded to Bedford aforesaid, and found it necessary to remove such prisoners of war as yet remained there. He
then reports in detail the names of, and disposition of, certain prisoners and further that he had advanced monies to certain
prisoners, and taken their paroles of honour, etc., etc., etc., and ordered the monies refunded, etc.
P. 275. On Tuesday, October 29th, 1776, the Committee of Safety ordered, " That Major Lockwood be requested to proceed
immediately to West Chester Co., and make inquiry where the Records of the Town Clerk's Office of the City and County of New
York, as also the publick Records of the Loan Offices, and Supervisors of the County of West Chester are deposited, and that he
use his best endeavors to cause them to be safely conveyed to such place of safety as he shall judge prudent; and that this
Committee will make provision for paying the expenses attending the same."
P. 822. On November 26th, 1776, the Committee ordered "that Mr. L'Hommediene and Major Lockwood be a Committee to inquire
into the cause of the said Connecticut Troops (sick and destitute), and if Colonel Welch shall refuse to take charge of them, then to
give proper orders for their relief."
And also on page 906, Force's Annals, same volume, the following letter from Major Lockwood to Pierre V[an]. Cortlandt, Vice-
President of the Convention:
"POUND RIDGE, November 29th, 1776.
"Sir: These are to inform you that I have been at Stamford this day, and was informed by several gentlemen that might be depended
on, that there is but a few of the enemy's ships up the Sound, and them but small ones, thought to have no troops on board of them;
and they think the enemy will not land there this year, except it be to plunder off some of their stock that may be down on their necks
of land.
"There was landed from a brig and tender this day a number of men at Greenwich, a place about two miles below the post road,
near Stamford, where (as was supposed) they thought to have taken off a number of sheep, but they were disappointed, for some
boys drove them off, while the inhabitants fired on the enemy. The enemy soon returned to their ships. The enemy got off only four
poor calves under the cover of their cannon. A poor bargain. The ships soon went up the Sound, to the East, out of sight. The men,
both old and young, came down in large numbers when they heard the cannon, and from several miles back, and seemed to be in
high spirits. So, on the whole, I think things appear more favorable than I expected in this part.
"Mr. Mills is to set out to come to you on Monday next I hope to be with you about the middle of next week.
Pierre V[an]. Cortlandt, Vice President of the Convention, of the State of New York, at the Fishkills."
From your humble servant,
EBEN. LOCKWOOD.
On December 11th, 1776, p. 370. General Morris was directed to repair to Philadelphia, and take his seat in General Congress, in
order that Philip Livingston, Esq., may be enabled to visit his family, and Mr. Robert Harper, Wm. Harper, Major Lockwood, and Wm.
Wisner be a Committee for the purpose of furnishing General George Clinton with ammunition and other necessaries for the use of
his Brigade.
P. 371. "The petition of the General Committee of West Chester Co., praying for relief that Rogers with his rangers, may be drove
off, etc., was read and filed." Ordered That the said Petition be referred to R. R. Livingston, Major Lockwood, General Morris, and
Mr. Morris.
See Calendar of Historical Manuscripts relating to the War of the Revolution, in the office of the Secretary of State, Albany, New
York, vol. 1, p. 618:
Ebenezer Lockwood, 1st Major of the 2d Reg't of Militia in West Chester Co., do most humbly certify to the honorable the
Convention of the State of New York, that in obedience to their Resolutions of the 27th of December last, I have administered the
oath of allegiance to the following Persons, being Inhabitants of the said County, viz.: and then follow 117 names, including those of
Daniel Lockwood,
Hezekiah Lockwood,
Nathan Lockwood, and I do further certify that in pursuance of the said Resolutions of the Convention, I have administered the
affirmation of allegiance to Alsop Hunt and James Hunt (being two of the People called Quakers), Inhabitants of the said County.
P. 169, as above Calendar of N. Y., etc.:
EBEN'R LOCKWOOD.
Ebenezer Lockwood's name appears in the list of field-officers for West Chester Co., commission issued and dated October 19,
1775, as 1st Major of the 2d Regiment.
P. 188, as above Calendar of N. Y., etc.:
153

To the Honorable the Provincial Congress of the Colony of New York, we the Committee for the County of West Chester do humbly
certify that at the election of delegates to represent the said County in the next Provincial Congress, to be held at New York the
14th, inst., which was this day held at the Court House of the said County, Major Ebenezer Lockwood, Col. Pierre Van Cortlandt
(and seven others) were duly elected agreeable to the resolves of the Provincial Congress to represent this county until the second
Tuesday of May next, and that it was voted that any three of the said Deputies shall act for the county.
Dated the 7th day of November, 1775.
By order of the Committee,
A true copy from the minutes, taken by
MICAH TOWNSEND,
Clerk of Committee.
GILBERT H. DRAKE,
Chairman.
P. 564, Calendar of Historical Manuscripts, etc., N. Y.: The New York Provincial Congress order "That an expedition be made into
the County of West Chester, New York, and that the Militia of said county be encouraged to join the Troops aforesaid with four days
Provisions, for which purpose Major Lockwood be immediately sent among them and to concert a Place of Rendezvous for those
who are willing to serve with secrecy and Dispatch. That such Militia be allowed Continental Pay and Rations; that the Commissary
at Peekskill be requested to furnish such Rations, and in default thereof that the said Major Lockwood be impowered to appoint a
Commissary for the purpose aforesaid." "That the said Major Lockwood be ordered to wait upon the said Commanding officer at
Peekskill with a copy of these Resolutions and of the said Petition and also to concert measures with the said Stephen Ward and
Col. Malcolm, and that he be furnished with the sum of five hundred pounds for defraying the incidental expenses of the said
Expedition, and account therefor with this Committee or Convention."
"That a letter be written to Gen. George Clinton requesting the Regiments of Col. Malcolm and Col. Thomas for the purposes
aforesaid, and that Major Lockwood wait upon him with the same." (See this letter, Journal Prov. Congress, 1, 749.)
"That Major Lockwood explain to Gen. Hatch the reasons upon which the Convention have formed this expedition," etc., etc.
"That he endeavor to obtain from Gen. Heath provisions, particularly Hard bread and whatever else may be necessary, etc., and
that he apply to the Quarter Master at Peekskill for aid in removing Forage, etc., etc., and to the Commissary to purchase Cattle for
use of the Army and that " he have power to devise and carry into execution any plan for obtaining ammunition and to make use of
the lead and powder belonging to this State at Peekskill or this place."
"Ordered that the Treasurer of the State advance to Major Ebenezer Lockwood the sum of five hundred pounds for defraying the
incidental expenses attending an intended Expedition under the command of Col. Malcolm against Major Rodgers, his Rangers and
other the enemy's Troops in West Chester Co., and for bringing off the forage, grain, cattle, etc., from such parts of the said county
as are most exposed to the enemy, pursuant to Resolutions passed this day."
P. 170, Correspondence Provincial Congress, N. Y.:
GENTLEMEN:
WHITE PLAINS, April 9th, 1776.
I received yours, dated April 1st, and observed its contents; shall stop buying myself. John Thomas, Jun'r, and Ebenezer Lockwood
have bought about 1000 barrels of pork, and it is repacking; the peas are delivered in store at Peekskill, and beg you to inform me if
you choose the peas to lay in store at the landing, or to be carted back in the country. We have also 600 barrels of flour.
The pork is stored on Cortlandt's Manor, Bedford and North Castle.
In haste, from your obed't
GILB. DRAKE.
To the Committee of Safety, New York.
Journal Provincial Convention, N. Y., vol. 1, p. 521: July 11th, 1776. Major Ebenezer Lockwood was on the Committee to inquire
into the truth of the charge that the troop of horse of Westchester Co. have refuse*! to furnish their quota of men to reinforce the
Continental Army at New York.
P. 522, July 12th, 1776. Mr. Jay, Major Lockwood, Col. Drake and others were on Committee "to call out the militia, sending such
expresses to the forts in the Highlands, and all such other measures as they shall think necessary."
P. 529, July 18th, 1776. Col. Hoffman and Major Lockwood were a Committee to hear and examine two prisoners later taken by
Major Graham.
P. 593. Major Lockwood informed the Committee of Safety August 27th, 1776, that the enemy's ships are at White Stone.
P. 691. Major Lockwood's long report which is given in detail (October 28th, 1776), relating to the removal of prisoners of war from
Salem and Poundridge, and a list of cash advances made by him with resolutions to reimburse him.
P. 729, December 2d, 1776. The Committee of Safety received "a letter from Major Lockwood, giving intelligence of the enemy in
the Sound, which was read and filed."
154

P. 830, March 11th, 1777. "Major Lockwood, 1st Major of the 2d regiment of militia in Westchester Co., delivered in a roll the names
of the persons in Westchester Co. who have taken the oath or affirmation of allegiance before him, in obedience to the resolutions of
the Representatives of this State of the 27th of December last."
P. 844, March 21st, 1777. "The House having received information that a party of the enemy have penetrated into Westchester
County and taken prisoners and carried off one of our advanced guards, and several of the inhabitants of the said county, and the
members of the said county being desirous that Major Lockwood should repair to the said county and inquire into the circumstances
of the same.
"Resolved. That Major Lockwood have leave of absence to repair to, and to inquire into the state of Westchester County, and that
he report the same to the House as soon as possible."
And, also, "That three blank commissions for the subalterns of the Poundridge company be delivered to Major Lockwood to be by
him filled up with names of such persons as shall be chosen."
Journal Provincial Convention, N. Y., vol. 1:
P. 817, March 22d, 1777. The Convention "directed Major Lockwood to inform Mr. Leake to withhold the purchasing of any more
shirts."
P. 892. Major Ebenezer Lockwood was present in the Provincial Convention April 20th, 1777, and voted for the Constitution or plan
of Government of the State of New York, having participated previously in the debates on it.
MRS. EBENEZER LOCKWOOD
The Magazine of American History (1879, p. 685) published a history of the Skirmish at Poundridge, Westchester County, New
York, of July 2d, 1779, when the enemy burned Major Ebenezer Lockwood's house and also the meeting-house, and would not
suffer his family to take anything away. He was very obnoxious to the British, and forty guineas had been offered for his head. "In
this connection the following incident is related: The soldiers, upon entering Major Lockwood's house, said to his wife in an insolent
manner, 'Where is that damned rebel?' Mrs. Lockwood, who was a good Christian woman, replied, indignantly, 'Rebel! you are the
Rebels; for you are rebelling against the King of Kings!'" (Also see Lossing's Field Book, etc., p. 831.)
Bolton's History of Westchester County, p. 10:
Major Ebenezer Lockwood was a son of Capt. Joseph Lockwood, one of the first settlers of Poundridge.
Page 129, vol. 2, Calendar of Historical Manuscripts, etc., Albany, New York:
October 28th, 1776. The Commissioners of Prisoners of War report " To cash paid Ebenezer Lockwood, Esq., for the subsistence
and removal of the Prisoners of War in Westchester County to , in Connecticut, as per acct's and receipts £19,5s. 4d."
Page 19, Bolton's History of County of Westchester, New York. Ebenezer Lockwood was Judge of Westchester County in 1778.
Page 10. Ebenezer Lockwood died July 29th, 1829, aged 84, and was buried in the village grave-yard of Poundridge, Westchester
County, New York.
Ebenezer Lockwood was delegate from Westchester County to the Convention at Kingston, Ulster County, to frame the Constitution
of the State of New York, April 20th, 1777.
Page 29, Bolton, etc. Ebenezer Lockwood was 1st Major 2d Regiment, Westchester County, New York.
Bolton's History of Westchester County, etc., p. 7, vol. 2:
"Old Poundridge, April ye first day (1760), at a town meeting held at the house of Ebenezer Locheood, in said Old Pound in
Westchester County, under the province of New York, the freeholders, inhabitants and residents proceed as follows, first by major
vote Joseph Lockwood to be town clerk."
April 20th, 1776, Ebenezer Lockwood was moderator of meeting in Westchester County, New York, and Joseph Lockwood was
clerk.
Bolton's History of Westchester, p. 12, vol. 2. "July, 1779, in a skirmish between the Americans and the enemy under Lieut. Col.
Tarleton at Poundridge, Major Lockwood's house was burned, and it appears that one of the principal objects in this sudden foray of
the enemy was the surprisal of Major Ebenezer Lockwood, for whose head forty guineas had been offered, but a spy gave notice of
the attack and the Major was on his guard."
NOTE.—"The British would not suffer the family to take anything away." (See N. Y. Journal, Holt's account of the action.)
From Bolton's History of County of Westchester, N. Y., published in 1881. This later edition has full line of Ebenezer Lockwood and
some others, a number of pages, and differing somewhat from the earlier edition. See, also, p. 109 of the appendix.
Col. Tarleton's attack on Poundridge in July, 1779, had for its principal object the capture of Major Lockwood, for whom a reward of
fifty guineas was offered.
The British troops went to Major Lockwood's house, and meeting his wife, who was a good Christian woman, asked her "Where that
d—d rebel was?" She replied, "You are the Rebels, for you are rebelling against the King of Kings."
155

There were several accounts of the skirmish:
1. Tarleton's report to Sir Henry Clinton.
2. Extract from a letter of an officer of Col. Sheldon's Regiment.
3. Holt's account, published at Poughkeepsie, in the New York Journal of July 5th, 1779.
4. Extract from a Journal kept by Major-General Win. Heath, dated July 2d, 1779.
5. The sketch of Major Ebenezer Lockwood also contains a history of the affair, in Bolton's Second Edition of the History of
Westchester County, in the chapter on Poundridge.
"At the declaration of independence, 4th July, 1776, the patriotic fires in the hearts of our fathers was fully kindled; committees of
inspection were appointed, gunpowder was carefully husbanded, a magazine to keep the warlike stores belonging to the town,
ordered to be erected, 'on the hill between Rev. Mr. Learning's house and Ebenezer Lockwood's.'" (Rev. Mr. Bouton's, His
Discourse on Norwalk, 1851. From pamphlet in Hist. Society, Philadelphia, p. 41.)
MAGAZINE, 1776.
"The Selectmen are directed to erect a magazine to keep the warlike stores belonging to the town, and that on the hill between Rev.
Mr. Learning's house and Ebenezer Lockwood's." (Hy. Norwalk, 130.)
Tombstone of MAJOR EBENEZER LOCKWOOD,
In the old burying ground at Poundridge N Y.
156