Historic Pelham

Presenting the rich history of Pelham, NY in Westchester County: current historical research, descriptions of how to research Pelham history online and genealogy discussions of Pelham families.

Wednesday, August 31, 2005

Depiction of Pelham Farmhouse Published in 1794



A tiny engraving published in 1794 in Greenleaf's New York Journal and Patriotic Register may depict a tiny Pelham farmhouse. If so, it may be one of the earliest published views of any location in the Town of Pelham.

The image, which appears below, was published as part of a small classified advertisement that offered a 153-acre farm located in the Town of Pelham for sale. It shows a tiny, square farmhouse beneath a large shade tree with a fence and gate visible in the foreground along what appears to be a crude roadway. There are two windows visible on one side of the farmhouse. There can now be no certainty, of course, that the tiny image is an accurate depiction of the actual farmhouse on the property offered for sale, but it would seem likely that it is. The entire text of the advertisement appears beneath the image below.


"FOR SALE,

A F A R M,

Lying in a commodious and pleasant situation, in the town of Pelham, in the county of Westchester, about 20 miles from New-York, containing 153 acres, whereon is a good dwelling-house, with a well of excellent water, and a complete large new barn, with other out-houses, and two good orchards. On the above farm is plenty of wood ; it is well watered, and is of a rich strong soil ; produces great crops of grass, and may, with ease, be made still more productive, from the continual supply of manure to be had from the salt meadows which adjoin it : Another great convenience attending this farm, arises from its being bounded, on one side, by East Chester Creek, which abounds with fish and fowl in great variety, and from whence passage boats are continually going to New-York market. For further particulars, apply to Hunt and Ward, No. 47, Water-Street, New-York, or to the subscriber, on the premises, who will give an indisputable title for the same.

CHARLES WARD.

August 21, 1793. [sic] 95-2aw.t.f."

Source: For Sale, A Farm, Greenleaf's New York Journal and Patriotic Register, Jan. 22, 1794, p. 1.

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Tuesday, August 30, 2005

1807 Advertisement for Sale of 100-Acre Farm in Pelham

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The March 12, 1807 issue of New-York Commercial Advertiser contains a fascinating and detailed classified advertisement for the sale of a 100-acre farm located in the Township of Pelham. The advertisement is so detailed in describing the property that it provides an interesting glimpse of the sort of property maintained by early settlers in Pelham. The text of the advertisement appears below.

"A FARM - At Public or Private Sale.
FOR Sale, a FARM, in a pleasant and healthy situation, township of Pelham, county of Westchester, about 17 miles from New-York, about one mile from two public landings, from whence market boats ply weekly, about the same distance from two churches, an academy, post-office, grocery and dry good stores, useful mechanics, bakery, and butcher's stalls; in their season, shell and scale fish are to be had plenty, at reasonable prices. This farm contains upwards of one hundred acres, on which are a comfortable Dwelling house, two barns, a cider mill, and cider mill house, with a well of good water at the door of the mill house, and another well of excellent water at the door of the kitchen. There are five bearing apple orchards, a proportion of which is grafted pippins, which, in a fruitful season, will produce three hundred barrels cider, and saleable apples ; also a variety of other fruit trees. The farm is well divided into meadow, tillable and wood lots, the last of which is a great proportion. The farm is extremely well watered by living springs and running brooks ; the fence inclosing and dividing the same, is principally of stone ; and on the same is two handsome building spots, which command water prospects as well as an extensive view of the adjacent country. Adjoining the farm are four lots of land, about 20 acres, 9 of which are well covered with wood and timber, of excellent quality ; on this last mentioned place there is a handsome elevated building spot. The land of the famrs is considered of good quality. The title indisputable, and the terms of payment easy.

If the above are not sold by the 1st April, they will on that day be sold at Vendue, at Pinckney's Hotel, New-Rochelle. Possession on the first of April. For further information, apply to
F. GUION.
New-Rochelle, March 12, 1807.
march 12 C&Spt1Ap"

Source: A FARM - At Public or Private Sale, New-York Commercial Advertiser, Mar. 12, 1807, p. 3.

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Monday, August 29, 2005

The 1804 Elections: Report of Pelham's Returns Published That Year

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The May 11, 1804 issue of American Citizen, published in New York City, reported on the election battles between Republicans and Federalists throughout the state of New York. The paper left no doubt where it stood in the matter. In describing the results of the elections throughout the state, it said "[t]hus it will be seen that while the federalists and little Burr-Band, by their united and violent exertions, have obtained, for Mr. Burr, the trifling majority of 52, the Republican Assembly ticket is carried by an average Majority of nearly300, and the Congress ticket by 631. So that after all, Republicanism has TRIUMPHED GLORIOUSLY, even in Dutchess." The returns for Pelham, as reported in the publication, were as listed below.

For Governor and Lieutenant Governor:

Republican
Lewis 6
Broome 6

Federalists
Burr 6
Phelps 6

For Congress:

Republican
Van Cortlandt 1
Hering. 21

For Senators:

Republican
Denning 11
Purdy 4
Thomas 5

Federalists
Dr. Smith 6
Roosevelt 5

For Assembly:

Republican
A. Gilbert 12
J. Travis 12
A. Odell 14
C. Tompkins 14

Federalists
J. Robert 0
B Isaacks 8
J. Sniffes 8
A. Browne 9
J. Robert 9

The election results that included Pelham's results included above also included the following published certification: "I do certify the foregoing to be a true extract taken from the canvass of the late election held in the county of Westchester for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Senators, members of Congress, and Assembly. THOMAS FERRIS, Clerk of Westchester County. 5th May, 1804."

Source: [Election Results], American Citizen, May 11, 1804, p. 2.

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Friday, August 26, 2005

Pelham's Reaction to the "Date Which Will Live in Infamy": December 7, 1941

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Though our nation had been preparing for War for quite some time, the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on Sunday, December 7, 1941 nevertheless stunned the nation and the little Town of Pelham. The following day, President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed the nation describing the previous day as "a date which will live in infamy".

Pelham residents were serving in the armed forces in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii on the day of the attack. For several days anguished Pelham families awaited word on the fate of their loved ones.

Pelham had been preparing for months for its own defense in the event of War. In the first few days after the Japanese attack, air raid sirens blared in Pelham and school children were dismissed from their schools. On Friday, December 12, 1941, the headline in The Pelham Sun blared "WAR DECLARATION FINDS TOWN READY FOR DEFENSE SERVICE". The entire, lengthy article in the newspaper detailed events in Pelham in the days that followed the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. The article appears in its entirety below.

"WAR DECLARATION FINDS TOWN READY FOR DEFENSE SERVICE
-----
Registration For Defense Activities Rises Rapidly
-----
Reassuring Reports Received From Pelham Men At Pearl Harbor Naval Base; Citizens Will Be Informed Of Service That They Can Render In Civilian Defense; Pelham Girds For War.
-----

The news of the passing week is historic. On Sunday a murderous attack without warning upon United States naval forces in Hawaii. On Monday news of our losses of ships and men and the loss of two major British ships in the fighting with Japan. On Tuesday an air raid alarm which caused some newspapers to issue extras declaring that enemy planes were approaching New York, caused Pelham schools to be emptied in emergency fashion. On Thursday Italy and Germany both declared war upon the United States.

In common with the rest of the United States the news of Sunday's treacherous attack aroused both national anger and national patriotic fervor. Registrations in all classes of local defense units rose rapidly. On Tuesday night the defense counsel met and reviewed the plans made for defensive measures. Auxiliary police forces reported by Robert Shaw as ready. The force of wardens under Harry D. Wright is perfecting its final steps. Kenneth R. Kelly was appointed head of the auxiliary fire fighting units to co-operate with the fire chiefs in expanding forces. Pamphlets and bulletins of information will be issued instructing citizens what to do in event of air raids.

Red Cross and defense council ambulance units are ready for service. Residents have been advised to keep fire extinguishing utensils handy. Loads of sand will be delivered to public places where it may be obtained. Anxious parents with sons in the armed forces in Hawaii hearing casualties were heavy sought information. Up to the present no Pelham casualties have been reported.

Cable Received from Lieut. Garland at Pearl Harbor

The first word received from a Pelhamite in the Pacific war zone was received here by cable on Wednesday. Lieut. Commander Guy P. Garland, U.S.N. sent word to his mother Mrs. Thomas L. Byrne of Pelham-Biltmore that he, his wife and nine-months-old baby were unharmed.

Commander Garland is stationed at the Pearl Harbor Naval Base. He was a member of the Class of 1929 at the United States Naval Academy and was recently promoted to Lieut. Commander.

"Don't Worry", Cablegram From Wife of Lieut. Harris

"Don't worry," was the text of a cablegram received on Wednesday from the wife of Lieut. David Harris, U.S.N., stationed at Honolulu. The cablegram was received by Mrs. Galen M. Harris, of No. 420 Fowler avenue, Pelham Manor, morther of Lieut. Harris.

Lieut. David Harris is stationed aboard the U.S.S. Destroyer Flusser, at Pearl Harbor. His wife and child are living at Pearl Harbor. Lieut. Harris was graduated from the Naval Academy, Annapolis in 1938.

Ensign Warren Flynn, son of Mr. and Mrs. David G. Flynn of Wynnewood Road, is stationed aboard the Battleship Maryland at Pearl Harbor. Ensign Flynn had been aboard the U.S.S. Oklahoma now reported sunk, but was transferred to his present ship on Oct. 20. Ensign Flynn received his commission in June. In a letter recently received by his mother, Ensign Flynn told of having dinner at Honolulu with Lieut. and Mrs. Harris.

Mr. and Mrs. Purnell Jr., Safe in Hawaii

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph W. Balet of Pelham Heights received word by cable yesterday "All is well," from their daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. William R. Purnell jr., of Honolulu.

Mrs. Purnell jr., the former Miss Marie V. Balet was married in Honolulu on Oct. 8 last. Her husband is the son of Captain and Mrs. William R. Purnell of Honolulu. Capt. Purnell is with the Asiatic Fleet.

Three Enlisted Men Stationed in Hawaii

Sergt. H. Richard Spurway is attached to Headquarters Battery, 2nd Battalion, 97th Coast Artillery, Fort Weaver, Honolulu. His mother, Mrs. Hubert V. Spurway, of No. 174 Sparks avenue, Pelham Heights, received a letter from him last week.

Pvt. Roy Sainburg is attached to Headquarters, 2nd Battalion, 97th Coast Artillery, Anti-Aircraft, Fort Weaver, Honolulu. His family received a letter from him on Monday.

Pvt. Harry Resner, Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Resner of No. 580 Sixth avenue is another Pelhamite who has been stationed on Hawaii. Resner, who volunteered in the U.S. Army more than a year ago is a member of Co. C. Ninth Inf. at Schofield Barracks.

Sergt. Paul Farrell Enroute to Manila

No word has been received from Sergt. Paul Farrell, son of Mr. and Mrs. P. A. Farrell of No. 121 Fifth avenue, who sailed for Manila from California on Dec. 3. Sergt. Farrell, who was drafted on May 28, recently visited with his parents before returning to Fort Ord, Calif., from which post he was to be transferred to Manilla. On his arrival at Fort Ord last week he notified his parents that they would not hear from him until he had reached a permanent post in the Philippines.

In order to relieve anxiety of friends, readers of The Pelham Sun are urged to notify this newspaper whenever they receive information relative to Pelhamites or other members of their families in the War Zone.

If New Rochelle or Mount Vernon stage test blackouts, the Pelhams will participate in the program, village officials have signified. "It will be good practise for us to black out at the same time that our neighboring communities do so," said Mayor Dominic Amato of North Pelham. "I think that whenever New York City stages a blackout, all of Westchester should participate, also.
Pelham's first actual war defense call was received here at 1.45 p.m. on Tuesday when the police departments were notified to summon all Air Raid Wardens to be prepared for duty. Chief Warden Harry D. Wright was notified, but the "all clear" notice came before any action was taken.

Pelham school children were dismissed from schools at 2.30 o'clock.

It was announced that the "alert" was a precautionary test rehearsal.

The Board of Education last night authorized Supt. of Schools, Joseph C. Brown, to purchase metal buckets for sand and a supply of flashlights for possible emergency use in the local schools. The buckets and flashlights will be stored at strategic points in the school buildings.
The Pelhamwood Association at the meeting held last night in the Town Hall pledged all possible co-operation with local school officials in completing and carrying out emergency plans and drills in the schools.

The first meeting which the Town of Pelham Defense Council has held in its new headquarters, No. 35 Fifth avenue, took place Tuesday evening, with a large attendance and lively interest. Mayor Dominic Amato, of North Pelham, and Mayor Lester W. Du Bois, of Pelham Manor, with members of the staffs of the three village governments, were present and took part in some of the discussions. Supervisor-elect, Thos. B. Fenlon was present as an interested spectator at this stage.

On the invitation of President William L. Chenery of the Board of Education, Superintendent of Schools Joseph C. Brown met with the Council to discuss plans for adequate systems for giving community warnings in the event of bonafide air raid alarms or other emergencies. He and President Chenery discussed the events of the day, and the confusion which had resulted from messages sent out by New York City police and other public authorities, by radio.

Mayors Amato and Du Bois referred to the County Defense Council's "report center" and the messages received on the teletypes of the local police departments.

At the suggestion of Chairman Ransom of the Defense Council, a committee of three, with former to act, was authorized to confer with the Mayors of the three villages, designate an official "report center" for the town, and establish a suitable system of warnings by sirens, as well as communication with the public schools and the Chief Warden. Chairman Ransom named as such Committee from the Council, Messrs. Clarence L. Law, William L. Chenery and Robert H. Shaw, who went into conference with the Village Mayors.

Chief Warden Harry D. Wright reported the selection of Zone and Sector Wardens and many of the post Wardens, but regretted the unwillingness of many citizens to give the time necessary to take the training and do the work. "I have had a hard job finding the right men and women for these important places," he said, "particularly in finding people who are in Pelham by day and are able and willing to give the time necessary for training as Wardens." He asked that all citizens be urged to respond to requests that they serve their community as Wardens.

The completion of the training of the first class of Police reserves and Auxiliaries was reported by Chairman Robert H. Shaw in charge of that division. About 45 will receive their certificates on Dec. 15th, but may continue in training, so as to be fit and available when needed. A new class will be started soon.

Dr. Walter H. Brundage, chairman of the Health Committee, reported the establishment and equipment [sic] of three first aid stations, at the Fire Department in Pelham Manor, the Police Station in Pelham Heights, and the Fire District building in North Pelham. He discussed other phases of the plans for the medical handling of emergencies if they arise.

On the certification of the Westchester County Medical Association, Dr. Brundage was elected Chief of the Emergency Medical Service, under the Town Defense Council.

Kenneth R. Kelly was elected Chairman of the Council's Division B., for the training of firefighting auxiliaries and reserves, in place of George R. Martin, resigned. Harold W. Garton and Clements Boyer will be Vice Chairmen. Training classes for these auxiliaries will be conducted Friday evening, Dec. 19, by Fire Chiefs John J. Brennan and James T. Bollettieri as instructors, at the fire houses in Pelham Manor and North Pelham. Enrollment of those willing to serve is invited, particularly those with some fire department experience.

Martin J. Alger, vice-chairman, was elected Chairman of Division D., on Transportation and Communications, in the place of Alfred Coates, resigned. The Council adjourned to listen to President Roosevelt's address to the Nation. Announcements of other plans and emergency provisions by the Town Defense Council in cooperation with the village authorities will be found elsewhere in this issue.

Colonel Frederick L. Devereux chairman of the Westchester County Defense Council, has warned against undue excitement and hysteria resulting from radio reports or rumors of impending air attacks.

He stated that the Westchester County Defense Council had its Control Room in operation and would receive directly from the Army Information Center appropriate warnings. In the event of impending air attack, the Defense Council will notify each community in the county. All necessary instructions for the guidance of the public will be issued by local municipal authorities.

It is necessary that telephone lines be kept open for official business and that no unnecessary telephone calls be made to police departments, municipal offices or defense councils.
It is imperative that the civilian population continue to go about its business as usual and refrain from excitement."

Source: War Declaration Finds Town Ready For Defense Service, Pelham Sun, Dec. 12, 1941, Vol. 31, No. 37, p. 1, col. 5.

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Thursday, August 25, 2005

1818 Sale of Lands to Herman and Hannah Le Roy of Pelham

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Herman Le Roy was a wealthy landowner who lived in Pelham during the early 19th Century. He was an active participant in Town affairs and owned hundreds of acres of land in the area. While researching in old copies of The New-York Evening Post, I ran across a published notice of sale of lands to Herman Le Roy and his wife, Hannah, by their son, Herman Le Roy, Jr. Knowing that there are several in Pelham who are researching deeds and land titles for portions of Pelham and nearby areas that included the Le Roy lands at one time, I have transcribed the notice below in its entirety. The sale was accomplished through a then "fictitious" action known as "fine". Though the notice looks as though a lawsuit is being settled, the matter actually involved a simple sale of lands.

"SUPREME COURT.

Herman Le Roy and Hannah
his wife, Plaintiffs,
vs. }
Herman Le Roy, Junior,
Defendant.
-----------------------------

PUBLIC notice is hereby given, pursuant to the statute in such case made and provided, that in the Supreme Court of Judicature of the People of the State of New-York, held at the city of New-York on the first Monday of May in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eighteen, before Smith Thompson, Ambrose Spencer, William W. Van Ness, Joseph C. Yates, and Jonas Platt, Esquires, Justices of the said Supreme court a fine with proclamations of the lands and tenements hereinafter mentioned was levided and acknowledged between the parties aforesaid, which fine is to effect following to wit. West Chester County, to wit. This is the final agreement made in the Supreme court of Judicature of the People of the State of New-York, at the city of New-York, on the first Monday in May in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eighteen, before Smith Thompson, Ambrose Spencer, William W. Van Ness, Joseph C. Yates, and Jonas Platt, Esquires, Justices of the said Supreme court, and others then and there present, between Herman Le Roy and Hannah his wife, Plaintiffs, and Herman Le Roy, Junior, of the city and state of New-York, merchant, deforciant of all those two messuages and three hundred and fifteen acres of land, meadow, pasture, wood, salt meadow, sedge, marsh, and land covered with water, with appurtenances, situate at Pelham, in the county of West Chester being a certain farm of land consisting of three several tracts, pieces or parcels, butted and bounded as follows, that is to say, First, all that certain tract, piece or parcel of land, meadow, pasture, salt meadow, sedge, marsh, and land covered with water, lying upon the southerly side of the highway leading through Pelham aforesaid, from the bridge at the mout of East Chester Creek to New Rochelle. Beginning at the corner where the division line between the said farm and the farm of captain Joseph Sackett crosses the said highway, thence running southerly with the said division line to the mouth of a small stream or run of fresh water which flows from a spring on the northerly side of the said highway near the place of beginning and discharges itself into Pelham Bay, or that part or arm of the East River or Long Island Sound which separates a certain island called "Hunters Island" alias "Hendersons Island" alias "Appleby's Island" from the main land, thence running along the middle of the channel formed by the said stream of fresh water through the sedge or marsh belonging to John Hunter, thence running southerly and westerly with the said low water mark, and the sedge or marsh of the said John Hunter, to a point where the said low water mark diverges from the land of the said John Hunter, thence still running southerly and westerly along the shore of the said bay, river or sound, at and with the said low water mark, to the mouth or entrance of a small salt creek, flowing from the said bay, river or sound, into the main land, and which creek is the boundary of land belonging to James Harvey, thence running up and along the middle of the said creek to the aforesaid highway, and thence running easterly with the said highway to the place of beginning -- Secondly, and also all that other tract, piece or parcel of land, meadow, pasture and wood, lying on the northerly side of the said highway, and opposite to the tract, piece or parcel above described, butted and bounded as follows, viz. : beginning at the corner where the division line between the said farm and the aforesaid farm of the said Joseph Sackett crosses the said highway, thence running along the said division line and following the several courses thereof to land of George Crawford, thence running with the last mentioned land to a road called 'Pelham road,' leading from the before mentioned highway to the West-Chester turnpike road, thence running southerly with the said Pelham road to its junction with the first mentioned highway, and thence running easterly, with the said highway to the place of beginning -- Thirdly, and also all that certain other tract, piece or parcel of land, meadow, pasture, wood, salt meadow, sedge, marsh and land covered with water, lying and being also upon the northerly side of the first mentioned highway, and also opposite the tract, piece or parcel first above described, butted and bounded as follows, viz : Beginning at the northerly side of the said highway, at the corner where the said highway crosses the little salt creek before mentioned by salt meadow now or late of Elbert Roosevelt; thence running up and along the middle of the said creek, to a piece of salt meadow, now or late of Moses Clark, David Clark and Ransom Burtis ; thence running along and around the last mentioned piece of salt meadow following, the several courses of the boundary thereof, to the middle of the said salt creek, at the north-westerly end or side of the said piece of salt meadow; thence running up and along the middle of the said salt creek, to a piece of salt meadow, now or late of the heirs or devisees of William Bailey, deceased; thence running with the last mentioned piece of salt meadow, to salt meadow and land, now of George Crawford; thence running with the last mentioned salt meadow and land, to the Pelham road before mentioned; thence running southerly with that road to its junction with the last mentioned highway, and then running westerly with the said highway to the place of beginning; and which three tracts, pieces or parcels, contain together in all three hundred and fifteen acres of land, meadow, pasture, wood, salt meadow, sedge, marsh, and land covered with water, be the same more or less; Whereupon a plea of covenant was summoned between them in the same court, that is to say, that he the said Herman Le Roy, junior, hath acknowledged the said tenements, with the appurtenances, to be the right of her the said Hannah, as those which the said Hannah hath of the gift of the said Herman Le Roy, junior, and those the said Herman Le Roy, junior, hath remised and quit-claimed from him the said Herman Le Roy, junior, and his heirs, to the said Hannah, and her heirs, forever; and moreover the said Herman Le Roy, junior, hath granted for himself and his heirs, that he will warrant to the said Hannah and her heirs, the aforesaid tenements, with the appurtenances, against all persons forever. And for this acknowledgement, remise, quit-claim, warranty, fine and agreement, the said Herman Le Roy and Hannah his wife, have given to the said Herman Le Roy, junior, thirty-five thousand dollars; and that the said fine was proclaimed in the first time in the said supreme court, on the seventh day of May, in the year first above mentioned. Dated the fourteenth day of November, one thousand eight hundred and eighteen.

HERMAN LE ROY,
HANNAH LE ROY,
HERMAN LE ROY, junior,
Towt attorney. no 16 Mlaw 5w"

Source: Supreme Court, N.Y. Evening Post, Nov. 16, 1818, p. 3.

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Wednesday, August 24, 2005

1807 Advertisement for Sale of Property of Rem Rapelje in Pelham

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While reviewing late 18th and early 19th century issues of the Commercial Advertiser published in New York City, I ran across an early classified advertisement published in 1807 offering to lease the home and property of Rem Rapelje of Pelham after his death. The advertisement appears in its entirety below.

"TO LET,

AT PELHAM, West-Chester County, 19 miles from New-York, by the Boston post road, the COUNTRY PLACE late the residence of Rem Rapelje, deceased, being a commodious dwelling house, carriage-house and stables, and a large garden, filled with vegetables and fruit. The place has many advantages -- scale and shell-fish in plenty. Whatever quantity of fire-wood and pasture is wanted, will be let with it. Possession given immediately. Apply on the premises, to GEORGE RAPELJE, or at the Office of C. D. Colden, Esq. Wall-street.

As there is to be a Public Auction on Thursday the 25th July, on the premises, for the sale of the furniture, farming utensils, cattles, &c. any person applying before that time to rent the place, may suit themselves with such articls as are wanting.

july 17 C&Splw"

Source: To Let, Commercial Advertiser [New York], Jul. 17, 1805, p. 3.

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Tuesday, August 23, 2005

Society Scandal: The "Strange" Story of Mrs. Adele Livingston Stevens Who Acquired the Bolton Priory in Pelham Manor

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During the 19th century, Mrs. Adele Livingston Sampson Stevens was one of the nation's wealthiest women. As a young girl she was educated at the Priory School for Girls in Pelham Manor and grew to love Pelham. When the Bolton family decided to close the school and sell Bolton Priory, Mrs. Stevens became the owner of the very home where she had attended the school for girls. She and her husband, Frederick W. Stevens, bought the Priory on August 8, 1883. Mrs. Stevens presented it to her daughter, Mrs. Frederick H. Allen, as a wedding gift and it remained in the Allen family for many years.

Mrs. Stevens was among the brightest society lights in 19th Century New York until she became involved in a scandalous affair with the married Marquie De Talleyrand Perigord. She abandoned her husband and children and was ostracized by New York Society. One report published in 1887 tells the story. It appears below.

"MARRIED TO HER MARQUIS
THE FINAL ACT IN A STRANGE LIFE STORY.
THE FORMER MRS. ADELE LIVINGSTON STEVENS NOW THE WIFE OF THE MARQUIS DE TALLEYRAND PERIGORD.

PARIS. Jan. 26. - The Marquis de Talleyrand Perigord and Mrs. Adele Livingston Stevens were married in Paris on the 25th inst. At the instance of the Marquis, settlements were made by which Mrs. Stevens retains the absolute control of her property and the interests of her children are protected. Judge Pierrepont, of New-York, acted as her counsel. The civil ceremony took place at the Mairie and the religious ceremony was solemnized at the American Church, in the Rue de Berri, by the Rev. Dr. Hough. The Duc de Dino, father to the Marquis, has conferred upon his son, in honor of the bride, the right to bear the title of Duc.

-----

It is now some 23 or 24 years since the announcement of the engagement and the quickly following marriage of Mr. Frederick W. Stevens and Miss Adele Sampson stirred the then comparatively small circle of New-York society. Mr. Stevens was a member of an old family long resident in New-York and on Long Island, and although one of the most prominent young society men of his day was not well off in this world's goods. A young lawyer with briefs yet to be won, and no hopes of family inheritance, his company was desired and sought for his excellent position, engaging qualities and handsome appearance and not for his possessions. Miss Sampson was the daughter of Josiah Sampson, a wealthy Connecticut manufacturer, and, while one of the great heiresses of the day, was comparatively little known in society. To a handsome presence and vivacious manners she added the charms of a superior and finished education, acquired at the well known Bolton Priory School near Pelham, Westchester County, and completed in Europe under the famous masters of the time. For the maiden ladies, the Misses Bolton, who managed the Priory School, Mrs. Stevens has always entertained the strongest affection, and on her last visit to this country, made under circumstances now to be related, she spent most of her time with them.

Miss Sampson brought to her husband so large an income as enabled the couple to take at once a foremost position among the society leaders and entertainers of the day. Society hastened to pay court to the handsome and wealthy couple, and their early married life was passed amid smiles and flowers. Four children were born to them, and the family was one of the best known in the metropolis. At the death of Mr. Sampson, Mrs. Stevens's father, his large property went almost entirely to her, and she was thus made one of the richest women in America. The dinners and other entertainments given by Mr. and Mrs. Stevens are still well remembered. At one of the former occurred the diamond ring episode in which there figured so prominently the grandson of a noted Secretary of the Treasury, and which has formed the theme of more stories told and printed, than any other incident in the annals of New-York society.

About 12 years ago Mrs. Stevens began the erection of the house No. 1 West Fifty-seventh-street, at the corner of Fifth-avenue, which is now owned by Secretary Whitney, and has become so well known to all New-Yorkers. It was one of the first to be built of the many superb mansions erected in the metropolis during the last decade, and excited the greatest curiosity and interest. Designed from an old French chateau, no expense was spared in the construction, or in its interior decorations and furnishings. One room was furnished entirely from the contents of an old Norman mansion, and is still considered in its way the most beautiful in New-York. At Newport, also, where the family spent their Summers, the Stevens villa, which is situated on the west side of Bellevue-avenue, a short distance south from the Ocean House, was one of the most luxurious in appointment and decoration, and was noted for the entertainments there given. In the Summer of 1880 or 1881 a ball was given there which surpassed in magnificence any former entertainment held in the fashionable watering place. The supper room was cooled by tons of ice arranged in a pyramid, at the rear of which calcium colored lights were placed, which, shining through the crystal mass, produced a rather beautiful effect.

So the years went on until about five years ago, early in the season, it was whispered, then rumored, and finally boldly stated that Mrs. Stevens's name had been stricken from off the society list, and that she had gone to Europe to join no less a person than the Marquis de Talley-rand-Perigord, leaving husband and children behind. It was then remembered that the Marquis, who himself was a married man, having married Miss Bessie Curtis, of the old Boston family of that name, and who had visited New-York and Newport in 1876 and again about 1881, had evinced so decided a preference for Mrs. Stevens's society that some gossip was provoked at the time. The fact that Mrs. Stevens, however, should have gone so far as to leave home and family for a Frenchman of no particular personal attractions, the Marquis being short and rather stout and decidedly ordinary-looking, and being moreover supposed to be deeply in debt, and a man having wife and family, occasioned the utmost sensation and surprise. After a few weeks it was learned that Mrs. Stevens had taken with her her two youngest children, little girls; the eldest child, Miss Daisy Stevens, and a son, Mr. Joseph Stevens, having remained with their father. The utmost sympathy was expressed for Mr. Stevens and his children, and they have retained this as well as the regard of their friends ever since, Miss Daisy Stevens being now one of the best known of New-York society girls.

Joining the Marquis de Perigord, in Paris, Mrs. Stevens traveled with him through a great part of Europe. It is said that she paid many of her lover's debts, and no apparent effort was made to conceal their relations. The action of the Marquis in leaving his wife and children created as great a scandal in Paris as Mrs. Stevens's flight had in New-York.

A year ago last Spring, Mrs. Stevens suddenly appeared in New-York, and her coming revived the whole matter. It was generally believed at the time that she endeavored to effect a reconciliation with her husband. Failing in this, it was also understood, she induced him to consent to her applying for a divorce, and to agree that he would not oppose her actions. Going to Newport, she had extensive alterations made to her villa there and caused it to be announced, it is said, that she intended entertaining. This report met with such an incredulous response that if she ever really had any such intention she soon abandoned it. She apploied for a divorce on the grounds of desertion and non-support, and her husband did not contest it, while, strange to relate, his own brother, Mr. Alexander Stevens testified in his sister-in-law's behalf. The complaint was so manifestly absurd that this action of Mr. Alexander Stevens has never been clearly understood. The divorce granted her, Mrs. Stevens returned to Europe, rejoined the Marquis, whose wife meanwhile obtained a divorce from him, and yesterday's marriage is the closing chapter in this strange history. Great surprise was occasioned by the fact that last year Miss Daisy Stevens, who is now again with her father, went abroad to visit her mother, and was with her for some time.

The Marquis de Talleyrand-Perigord, the hero of this international scandal, is considered a clever man. He is now about 45 years old, is a descendant of the great Talleyrand, and has written several books, among them an amusing sketch of America and the Americans."

Source: Married To Her Marquis, N.Y. Times, Jan. 27, 1887, p. 1.

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Monday, August 22, 2005

1935: Pelham Manor Blocks Proposed Motorcycle Raceway

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Some in the Village of Pelham Manor may recall efforts during the 1930s to create a motorcycle raceway in the Village in an area near today's Secor Lane. The development efforts were quickly squashed following a howl of public protest. Perhaps most interestingly, the Village Board of Trustees reacted to the proposal by banning all paying amusements which, some said, would make it impossible for the Village ever to have a movie theater, ball park or any other type of public entertainment.

The story, as told in an account published on September 24, 1935, appears below:

"Pelham Manor Puts Ban On Paying Amusements
-----
Special to THE NEW YORK TIMES.

PELHAM MANOR, N. Y., Sept. 23. - The village board of Pelham Manor voted an amendment to the zoning laws tonight aimed to prohibit the construction of a proposed motor cycle racing stadium, but at the same time, according to real estate owners, apparently made it impossible for the community ever to have a motion picture house, theatre, ball park or any other type of public entertainment.

More than 100 persons attended the regular meeting of the board to express their disapproval of the stadium and the board immediately passed the amendment. It prohibits any public entertainment in the village for which admission is charged. The land for the proposed stadium is owned by members of the Secor family, descendants of Zenas Secor, builder of the Civil War Monitor, who first purchased it."

Source: Pelham Manor Puts Ban On Paying Amusements, N.Y. Times, Sep. 24, 1935, p. 4.

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Friday, August 19, 2005

The Special Postal Cancellation for Pelham's October 1954 Tercentennial Celebration

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Last year Pelham commemorated the 350th anniversary of the signing of the treaty between Thomas Pell and local Native Americans on June 27, 1654. By that treaty, Pell acquired the lands that later became Pelham, New Rochelle, East Chester, City Island and surrounding areas. The celebration lasted an entire year and included a large number of events.

In 1954, Pelham similarly celebrated the Tercentennial anniversary of the signing of the Pell-Siwanoy Treaty. The Chairman of the Committee that oversaw the celebration, Lockwood Barr, arranged a host of events held principally during the weekend of October 15, 16 and 17 that year.

Dedicated local philatelists may know that on October 18, 1954, the United States Post Office held a special postal cancellation dedicated to the Tercentennial celebration. An image of a so-called "proof example" of the cancellation appears immediately below.



The special cancellation shows a design on the left with a Native American and a Pilgrim family standing on each side of the words "TERCENTENNIAL 1654-1954 PELHAM, N.Y. October 15, 16, 17 CELEBRATION". The three cent U.S. Postage printed to the right appears next to a cancellation marked "PELHAM P O [Post Office] N.Y. OCT 18 '54".

A number of these appear to exist and at least two have auctioned recently on eBay.

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Thursday, August 18, 2005

The Opening of the New Iron "Pelham Bridge" in 1871

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Over the last several months I have researched the tiny neighborhood that grew up around the Pelham Bridge in the 1870s and 1880s. The neighborhood seems to have begun to thrive after the "new" iron Pelham Bridge was completed in 1871.

For those who are interested in this area that I have touched upon in quite a number of Blog postings, you may wish to read at least the following posts:

Tue., Aug. 9, 2005: Cock Fighting at Pelham Bridge in the 19th Century

Tue., Jun. 28, 2005: The Hotel and Bar Room at Pelham Bridge

Wed., March 23, 2005: Prize Fighting at Pelham Bridge in 1884

Today's Historic Pelham Blog posting relates an account of the opening of the new iron bridge in 1871 after many trials and tribulations. The account, published in the New York Herald on June 3, 1871, appears in its entirety below.

"PELHAM BRIDGE.
-----
Opening of the New Structure.

The new iron bridge across East Chester creek, at Pelham, Westchester county, was turned on for the first time last Thursday, amid general rejoicing on the part of the citizens. This structure was contracted for more than a year ago for $30,000, and was to have been completed within a period of six or eight months; but the contracting party having failed, and other dificulties arising from mismanagement, the work progressed but slowly until last fall, when a new commission, consisting of William H. Browne, of West Chester; Andrew Findlay of East Chester, and H. H. Robertson, of Morrisania, was appointed, and an additional appropriation of $15,000 made. Today the bridge will be ready for travel, and the satisfaction expressed in consequence - and at the prospect of unrestricted commerce again - is general throughout the villages of West Chester, Throgg's Neck, Pelham, East Chester and New Rochelle, while on City Island the inhabitants are almost wild with joy."

Source: Pelham Bridge, N.Y. Herald, Jun. 3, 1871, p. 6, col. 1.

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Wednesday, August 17, 2005

More on the Village Blacksmith Who Won the 1906 North Pelham Election By Cornering the Market on Sleighs

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On Friday, July 8, 2005 I published to the Historic Pelham Blog a posting entitled "How Did a Village Blacksmith Win the 1906 North Pelham Election by Cornering the Market on Sleighs?". In that posting, I detailed how a local village blacksmith named James Reilly won election as Village President (i.e., Mayor) by cornering the market for sleighs during a snowstorm and encouraged his supporters to glide to the polls while his opponents' supporters sat glumly at home unable -- or unwilling -- to trudge to the polling place.

Research has revealed another article about the odd election published in The New York Times on March 20, 1906. The text of that article appears below.

"HE CORNERED THE SLEIGHS.
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Municipal Ownership Candidate in Pelham May Win To-day's Election.


There was gloom last night in the Republican ranks of Westchester County over the prospect for the village elections to-day. A severe snowstorm, the heaviest of the Winter, had blocked trolley cars, and it was feared that the Republican voters, mostly New York commuters, would stay away from the polls and thus turn over the towns to the Democrats.

At 7 o'clock last night all trolley lines in the county were at a standstill. The polls will be open from 6 to 12 o'clock this morning.

The Democratic Town Committee of Pelham had automobiles engaged for the day, but last night they canceled the order and endeavored instead to get sleighs. To their dismay they found that James Reilly, the village blacksmith, who is running on the Municipal Ownership ticket, had cornered all the sleighs in town.

There are elections in twenty-one villages in the county. Most of these villages have been overwhelmingly Republican, but the storm puts them in the doubtful column. Last night the Republican committees were busy trying to reach every commuter by telephone and get his promise to get out and vote."

Source: He Cornered the Sleighs, N.Y. Times, Mar. 20, 1906, p. 1.

James Reilly's ploy was successful. Municipal Ownership party supporters elected their whole ticket, defeating the Republican and Democratic nominees by a good plurality. Mr. Reilly was elected by a plurality of 26; W. G. Barker was chosen Trustee by a plurality of 43; D. Paul O'Flynn was chosen Treasurer and James Lyon Collector.

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Tuesday, August 16, 2005

Riddle Me This: How Well Do You Know Your Pelham History?

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Last year during Pelham's celebration of the 350th Anniversary of the signing of the Pell-Siwanoy Treaty on June 27, 1654, I prepared a set of riddles for students at the Colonial School. After answering each riddle, children had to identify marked letters that, when unscrambled, spelled the phrase "Happy Birthday Pelham". Many of the students were able to solve the riddles and uncover the scrambled secret message.

How well do you know your Pelham history? Below are the riddles prepared for the elementary school students. Answers follow at the end of today's Blog posting.

1. “I Want You” to tell me the full name of this famous artist and illustrator who was born in his grandfather’s home in Pelham Manor on June 18, 1877. Over four million copies of his famous recruiting poster for the U.S. Army were printed during World War I.

2. I was a Revolutionary War hero who rode on horseback as an escort of honor to General George Washington on Evacuation Day, November 25, 1783 upon Washington’s return to New York City at the end of the Revolutionary War. Colonial School sits on land that was once part of my farm. Who am I?

3. From the late 1890s until July 31, 1937 I clickety-clacked from the train station, along the middle of Wolfs Lane to Colonial Avenue where I turned left and then made an immediate right onto Pelhamdale. Everyone got out of my way as I carried my passengers to Shore Road. I inspired a famous comic strip that ran in nearly 300 newspapers for a half century. What was my name in that comic strip?

3. From the late 1890s until July 31, 1937 I clickety-clacked from the train station, along the middle of Wolfs Lane to Colonial Avenue where I turned left and then made an immediate right onto Pelhamdale. Everyone got out of my way as I carried my passengers to Shore Road. I inspired a famous comic strip that ran in nearly 300 newspapers for a half century. What was my name in that comic strip?

4. When first laid out I was known as the “New Road to New England”. By 1732 the first regular stage coach route between New York and Boston was established along me. Today I am known as Colonial Avenue (near Colonial School). George Washington rode on horseback along me through Pelham several times. What was my name when George Washington rode along me through Pelham?

5. I am a giant glacial boulder with a giant crack down my middle. I have been a Pelham landmark for as long as there has been a Pelham. But, today I do not sit within the boundaries of Pelham. I am located near the New England Thruway where it meets the Hutchinson River Parkway. What is my name?

6. Many consider me the founder of Pelham because I purchased lands that later became Pelham from Siwanoy Native Americans on June 27, 1654. Who am I?

7. Washington Irving, the famous author who wrote many wonderful stories including The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, is said to have personally laid the yellow bricks above my doorway that form the date “1838”. I am one of two existing buildings in Pelham that are on the National Register of Historic Sites. What am I called?

8. I led several hundred American Patriots in the Battle that saved General George Washington’s Army on October 18, 1776. The Battle has been called the Forgotten Battle of the Revolution, the Battle of Pelham, the Battle of Pell’s Point, the Battle of Pelham Manor, the Battle of Pelham Bay, the Fight at Pelham Heights and the Battle of Pelham Moor, among other names. I eventually became a general in George Washington’s Army. Who am I?

9. I am a street located in the Pelham Heights section of the Village of Pelham that was named after a ship on which Pelham resident and, later, United States Congressman Benjamin Fairchild was traveling when it was wrecked on an island off the coast of Alaska in the 19th Century. When Benjamin Fairchild was rescued and returned to Pelham, I was named after the ship. Other streets in the Heights were named after the island on which he was shipwrecked (Loring), the steamship that rescued him (the George W. Elder) and a city in California that he visited on the ill-fated trip (Monterey). What street am I?

10. I owned a home in Pelham known as The Shrubbery. I was a successful attorney. I served as Vice President of the United States during the presidency of Thomas Jefferson. On July 11, 1804 I fought a duel and mortally wounded Alexander Hamilton. That was the beginning of the end of my political career. Who am I?

11. I am a central green, or park, around which homes have been built in the Village of Pelham. I am the only park in Pelham named after a President of the United States. What is my name?

12. Built sometime between 1836 and 1842, I am the only grand mansion that remains of the many that once stood in the area along what we know today as Shore Road. Although I once stood within the boundaries of Pelham, today I stand within Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx. I am on the National Register of Historic Places. What is my name?


[SCROLL DOWN FOR ANSWERS]


ANSWERS: 1. James Montgomery Flagg 2. Col. Philip Pell III 3. Toonerville Trolley 4. Boston Post Road 5. Split Rock 6. Thomas Pell 7. Bolton Priory 8. Col. (Later General) John Glover 9. Ancon Avenue 10. Aaron Burr 11. Chester Park 12. Bartow-Pell Mansion

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Monday, August 15, 2005

952 Pelhamdale Served as a 19th Century School for Girls, Then a School for Boys


Many in Pelham know that one of the nation’s premier college preparatory schools, The Taft School (now located in Watertown, Connecticut), began in Pelham Manor in 1890. It is also widely known that the lovely home located at 964 Pelhamdale Avenue served as the first home of the Taft School for Boys. Fewer know that before the Taft School for Boys opened in the little home, Mrs. Hazen's School for Girls used the structure as its first home the year before. Even fewer know that the home next door, located at 952 Pelhamdale Avenue, was also used by both Mrs. Hazen's School for Girls in 1889 and the Taft School for Boys in 1890 and thereafter for a short time to house students. Today's Historic Pelham Blog posting details the evidence for the conclusion that 952 Pelhamdale was used by both institutions early in its life. A photograph of the home appears immediately below.



The conclusion that 952 Pelhamdale Avenue was used by Mrs. Hazen's School for Girls and by the Taft School for Boys in the late 19th Century is based on a variety of unrelated sources. In 1913, Mrs. Hazen’s daughter wrote that “[t]he school first located on Pelhamdale avenue, opposite the residence of Mrs. Robert C. Black, in the house then owned by Mr. Silas H. Witherbee, now occupied by Mr. Charles A. Perkins, and [in] the house owned by Miss H.M. Mitchell, now occupied by Mr. Frank A. Hays.” Tiers, Edith, Mrs. Hazen’s School, The Pelham Sun (1913) (copy of clipping in the collection of The Office of The Historian of The Town of Pelham) (hereinafter “Tiers, Mrs. Hazen’s School”). A map published in 1908, five years before Mrs. Hazen’s daughter made her statement, shows that the home located at 952 Pelhamdale Avenue was then owned by “Miss H. Mitchell” and the home located at 964 Pelhamdale Avenue was then owned by Witherbee Real Estate & Improvement Co. Fairchild, John F., Atlas of the City of Mount Vernon and the Town of Pelham, Plate 35 (1908).

Further research reveals a letter by the founder of the Taft School for boys, Horace Taft, on February 26, 1936 stating: “[t]he first year we had two buildings on Pelhamdale Avenue . . . Crossing Pelhamdale Avenue from the driveway of the Black place, you would almost strike our main building; the Red Building, we called it. Next to it, on the side of the Boston Post Road, was a little house which we called the Mitchell House. Those two were our complete equipment the first year.” Letter from Horace D. Taft to William R. Montgomery, Feb. 26, 1936, pp. 1-2 (original in collection of The Office of The Historian of The Town of Pelham). Finally, this evidence is further supported by a published account of a “tea” given at the “Red House” by the boys of the Taft School for Boys for guests including, principally, girls from Mrs. Hazen’s School for Girls in 1892. The account states that the “young ladies began to arrive about half after five, and most of them were shown their old rooms, now occupied by the boys.” See Original undated and untitled clipping from The Manor in the collection of The Office of The Historian of The Town of Pelham, Mrs. Hazen’s School clippings file (located with other clippings from 1892; date references on front and back of clipping including “Wednesday, June 1st” and “Monday afternoon, June 6th” support date of 1892).

In short, the lovely 19th Century home located at 952 Pelhamdale Avenue was just as much a part of the life of Mrs. Hazen's School for Girls and the Taft School for Boys as its better known next door neighbor.

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Friday, August 12, 2005

The Little Pelhamville Depot: Forerunner to the Train Station Serving New Haven Line Passengers Today


There may be only one known image of the tiny wooden depot that once stood about where the One Wolfs Lane (the Pelham National Bank Building) now stands. That image, which appears below, is taken from an engraving prepared for an article that appeared in the January 16, 1886 issue of Scientific American. See A Remarkable Railroad Accident, Scientific American, Jan. 16, 1886, Vol. LIV, No. 3, pp. 31-2 (the first page of the issue is page 31).





This little depot is the forerunner to the Pelham Station built to the east along Pelhamwood during the 1890s that still serves passengers today.


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Thursday, August 11, 2005

How Dry I Am: Pelham Goes Dry in the 1890s and Travers Island Is At the Center of a Storm

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In 1896, Pelham was the only town in Westchester to vote, pursuant to the terms of the so-called Raines Law, to go dry. On Tuesday, March 31, 1896, the Town voted, in effect, to close all saloons and to bar the selling of liquor except by druggists on physicians' prescriptions.

Almost immediately the New York Athletic Club on Travers Island found itself at the center of a storm. Travers Island lies partly in Pelham and partly in New Rochelle. It suddenly dawned on the Town that through a few simple machinations, the Club would be able easily to circumvent the prohibition on the sale of liquor. The New York Times described the situation in an article published on April 3, 1896. The article appears below.

"NEW-YORK'S ATHLETES GUESSING.
-----
Whether Travers Island Is in Pelham or New-Rochelle?

PELHAM MANOR, N. Y., April 2.-Where is the New-York Athletic Club's country house? The answer always has been Travers Island, and the big clubhouse and fine grounds have usually been thought of as belonging to Pelham Manor.

The question now will require a much more exact answer, it is said, since on Tuesday the town of Pelham voted to close all saloons and to bar the selling of liquor everywhere except by druggists on physicians' prescriptions.

The best authorities obtainable on the town lines of Pelham and New-Rochelle claim that the dividing line runs through the big clubhouse itself, and the Town Assessors call to mind the fact that the New-York Athletic Club is assessed in both Pelham and New-Rochele. It is said, therefore, that the New-York Athletic Club must not hereafter dispense liquors to its members in the town of Pelham.

The members of the club who visited the clubhouse yesterday discussed the situation. It was not until yesterday, in fact, that it fully dawned on the club members what the vote against license in Pelham meant to them, and the great quantity of puzzling questions that might arise when the law should be enforced. Most of them thought the clubhouse, gronds and all, was in Pelham, and began to think of the feasibility of selling the property and getting another place untrammeled by obnoxious liquor restrictions.

The cottage which stands a few feet southwest of the main clubhouse is kept open all Winter. It contains a bar and cozy smoking and reading rooms. The main clubhouse is not opened until late in the Spring. The cottage is a favorite haunt of the country members of the club whose homes are in Mount Vernon, Pelham Manor, and New-Rochelle. The cottage, it is said, really contains the main bar of the entire establishment, though a supplementary bar is opened in the clubhouse in the Summer season. The club bars have always been duly appreciated, just as they are in big New-York City clubs.

A member of the New-York Athletic Club said this morning that the cottage, bar and all, was unquestionably in Pelham, and that he thought the big clubhouse itself was in Pelham. Another member of the club said he had heard somewhere that the town line intersected the main clubhouse. Every one agreed that the cottage was in Pelham. If a part of the main clubhouse was in New-Rochelle, the bar could easily be moved to the New-Rochelle end, and the necessary license could be obtained from New-Rochelle.

It is no easy matter to determine just how the town line runs. George Lambden, Town Assessor of New-Rochelle, who is considered the best authority on local boundaries, says the New-Rochelle line cuts off just eighteen feet of the clubhouse, and that the rest of the clubhouse is in Pelham. Joseph J. English, for many years Tax Collector of Pelham, says the boundary passes through the clubhouse. Mr. Lambden and Mr. English both say that the club grounds and buildings are assessed in New Rochelle and Pelham. If Mr. Lambden is right, the bar can easily be taken from the cottage and placed in the eighteen feet in New-Rochelle, or a little house can be built in the part of the ground that lies in New-Rochelle. It will be very inconvenient to have the bar taken from the cottage and placed in a house by itself.

The question has also arisen, whether, in case the bar is moved over into New-Rochelle, it would be legal for a person sitting at a table in the part of the clubhouse in Pelham to summon a waiter and order drinks brought to him from the New-Rochelle barroom.

If the barroom is transferred to New-Rochelle, it will no doubt be closely watched Sundays, as New-Rochelle has an organized police force, whereas Pelham Manor has but one policeman who is only on duty at night.

All the members of the club admit that many vexatious questions are liable to arise. It is likely that measures will be taken to find out exactly where the town line cuts the clubhouse. There does not seem to be any maps that decide the question, but it is said stone posts were placed in the ground to fix the course of the line. It is said also that everything on one side of a line that runds though the knob on a front door of a certain house in Cedar Road is in Pelham and that everything on the other side is in New-Rochelle."

Source: New-York's Athletes Guessing Whether Travers Island Is in Pelham or New-Rochelle?, N.Y. Times, Apr. 3, 1896, p. 6, col. 4.

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Wednesday, August 10, 2005

More on the Martha Emmons Weihman Memorial Park: The Landscape Designer

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Regular readers of this Blog have read much about the history of the Martha Emmons Weihman Memorial Park located on the Esplanade at Boston Post Road behind Huguenot Memorial Church. I have been doing research on the history of the park to assist The Junior League of Pelham, Inc. That organization is engaged in an effort to raise funds to restore the park. Recent postings on the topic include:

Wed., July 20, 2005: The Pelham Manor Village Board Decides To Dedicate Park as "Martha Emmons Weihman Memorial Park" on September 8, 1941.

Mon., June 6, 2005: Martha Emmons Weihman Memorial Park in Pelham Manor - Origins of the Idea to Create a Park.

Thu., June 2, 2005: Obituary of Martha Emmons Weihman From The Pelham Sun, August 16, 1940.

Tue., May 31, 2005: The June 6, 1940 Fire That Destroyed the George M. Reynolds Mansion (Part I of II).

Wed., June 1, 2005: The June 6, 1940 Fire That Destroyed the George M. Reynolds Mansion (Part II of II).

Tue., May 24, 2005: Clifford and Martha Weihman of Pelham (Part I of II).

Wed., May 25, 2005: Clifford and Martha Weihman of Pelham (Part II of II).

Today's Blog posting will provide the latest additional information regarding the park that I have been able to assemble: the identity of the landscape designer who prepared the design for the Park. The information comes from an article published in the September 26, 1941 issue of The Pelham Sun and is reproduced in its entirety below.

"Planning Board to Meet Tonight for Park Plans

-----

Work next week on grading and layout of the Martha Emmons Weihman Memorial Park on the property on the Boston Post Road and the Esplanade, Pelham Manor, awaits approval of proposal plans by the Village Planning Board meeting tonight in the village hall.

The offer to defray the cost of landscaping the property, which was the site of the three-story frame apartment building which was gutted by fire in June, 1940, was made to the village board last month by Clifford T. Weihman, of Monterey, husband of the late Mrs. Weihman of Monterey avenue, as a memorial for his wife. The village had recently purchased the property, which has a 250-foot frontage on the Post Road and a 250-foot frontage on the Esplanade, for improvement as a park site.

Tonight the Planning Board will discuss plans for grading and layout, which have been made by Willard W. Gay, architect of New Rochelle. Mr. Gay has drawn up the complete design for the park, including several paths, a central pool surrounded by flagstones, and layout of various shrubbery. Village Engineer Julius J. Dworschak is getting bids from contractors on grading and excavating of the old apartment house foundation and expects to award the contract next week. The Planning Board is headed by Village Trustee C. Furnald Smith and includes Miss Evelyn Longley, Lockwood Barr, Lucius Greve and Engineer Dworschak."

Source: Planning Board to Meet Tonight For Park Plans, The Pelham Sun, Vol. 31, No. 25, Sep. 26, 1941, p. 5, col. 1.

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Tuesday, August 09, 2005

Cock Fighting at Pelham Bridge in the 19th Century

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In the last few months I have published to the Historic Pelham Blog several postings regarding Pelham Bridge and the tiny community that sprang up nearby during the 19th Century. Among the postings to touch on the neighborhood have been:

Tuesday, June 28, 2005: The Hotel and Bar Room at Pelham Bridge

Wednesday, March 23, 2005: Prize Fighting At Pelham Bridge in 1884

The area seems to have been somewhat of a rough-and-tumble place. Today's Blog posting describes a large cock fight held in the area in 1883, only a year before the prize fight described in the March 23 posting that led to several arrests. The account is from the December 18, 1883 issue of The New York Times.

"A DESPERATE COCKING MAIN.

One of the most desperate and sharply contested cocking mains ever fought in the neighborhood of New-York took place on Sunday last at a quiet little spot in the neighborhood of Pelham Bridge, and was attended by a large number of sporting men from this City and the annexed district. The match, for $20 a fight and $500 on the main, was between the birds shown by Mr. Mercer, of Pelham, and an equal number shown by Mr. Corsey, of the Town of West Chester, and expectation was on tip-toe for several weeks as to the result of the contest, and large amounts of money were freely wagered on both sides. Mercer's birds won the first and fourth battles and Corsey's the other two. The fifth was the gamest fight ever seen in the annexed district. Mercer's bird was a dominick of five pounds four ounces and Corsey's a red, an ounce heavier. The fight lasted 35 minutes, the birds spurring and dodging one another like pugilists. In the end the red when put to the scratch refused to pick, thus giving the fight and the main to Pelham. When the red was taken up by its handler it quickly revived and picked vigorously, showing every desire to renew the fight, but too late for the hopes and pockets of its backers. This caused some expressions of dissatisfaction among the West Chester men, but no disturbance occurred."

Source: A Desperate Cocking Main, N.Y. Times, Dec. 18, 1883, p. 2, col. 2.

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Monday, August 08, 2005

The Day the Earth Shook in Pelham: July 11, 1872

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On a sultry summer morning, July 11, 1872, just as the sun began to rise, the earth quaked and Pelham shook. It as about 5:30 a.m. Witnesses said that the earthquake seemed to come from the south and roll toward the north. "Timid ladies", one report said, "became greatly alarmed". Little Pelhamville felt the quake that was described in the following article.

"An Earthquake in Westchester County and Long Island.

About 5 1/2 o'clock, yesterday morning, the residents of the villages along the eastern shore of Westchester County were startled by a shock of earthquake. Houses were shaken to their foundations, and crockery and glassware in the closets were considerably disturbed by the shock. Timid ladies became greatly alarmed, fearing results of a more serious character. In the villages of East Chester, Mt. Vernon, Pelhamville, New Rochelle, Mamaroneck, Rye and Port Chester, in Westchester County, and at Greenwich, Conn., the earthquake was both heard and felt very distinctly. It was also noticed in some of the villages along the line of the Hudson River Railroad. There was no storm or thunder prevailing in the localities mentioned at the time the earthquake was felt.

The inhabitants of Glen Cove, Roslyn, Sand's Point, and other places on the north shore of Long Island, report having felt a slight shock of earthquake about 5 1/2 o'clock yesterday morning.

The shock is reported at the beginning to have been similar to that of a piece of artillery or heavily laden cart driven rapidly over frozen ground. It seemed to come from the south and roll away off toward the north. It was sufficiently loud to awaken nearly all the sleepers, to cast down piles of coal in the cellars, to shake the crockery in the rooms, and to give a very perceptive vibration to the houses.

This is the third time that a shock of earthquake has visited the same neighborhood in Long Island. Last year it occurred about 7 1/2 o'clock one Sunday, after a heavy rain. The circumstances were very similar this time -- the shock following so closely upon the heavy storm of the previous evening."

Source: An Earthquake in Westchester County and Long Island, N.Y. Times, Jul. 12, 1872, p. 5.

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Friday, August 05, 2005

An Early Railroad Incident in 1852 Killed Pelham Resident John Middleton

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As long as there have been railroads there have been tragic railroad accidents. When man meets massive iron horse, of course, man is sure to lose. One very early incident when the line we know today as the New Haven line was only six years old killed a Pelham resident named John Middleton. New York's daily newspaper, the New-York Daily Times (later renamed The New York Times), wrote about the incident. Today's Blog posting provides the content of the article.

"KILLED ON A RAILROAD. - At an early hour on Saturday evening, a gentleman, named John Middleton, residing at Pelham Corners, Westchester County, met with a fatal accident. The Porchester Town train of the New Haven Railroad had stopped at One Hundred and Ninth street Station, when the unfortunate man leaped off for a moment. The cars suddenly started, and in his effort to regain the platform, he fell upon the track and was instantly killed by the wheels passing over his body. The train was stopped, and his remains were conveyed to the River House, at Harlem, where Coroner Hilton held an inquest and a suitable verdict was rendered by the Jury."

Source: Killed on a Railroad, N.Y. Daily Times, Jan. 30, 1854, p. 8, col. 1.

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Thursday, August 04, 2005

Early Reports Relating to Construction of the Branch Line (Part II)

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Yesterday I published to the Historic Pelham Blog a posting entitled "Early Reports Relating to Construction of the Branch Line (Part I)". That posting included a news account published on June 1, 1870 detailing promises by residents of Pelham to tender rights of way to the railroad at no cost to encourage the construction of the Branch Line parallel to the Long Island Sound in the early 1870s. Today's posting provides an additional news account relating to the same topic from an early issue of the New York Herald. The account, which details the election of a number of directors including John Schuyler of Pelham and John Hunter, appears below.

"Financial and Commercial . . .

Railway Matters . . .

The stockholders of the Harlem River and Portchester Railroad Company have elected the following directors: -- N.A. Baldwin, of Milford, Conn., who was in turn elected president; Wilson G. Hunt, of New York; E. H. Trowbridge, of New Haven; Francis Morris, of Westchester; William E. Barnett, of New Rochelle; William D. Bishop, of Bridgeport; F. G. Clark of Greenwich; George N. Miller, of New York; John Schuyler, of Pelham; John T. Shelton, of Bridgeport; Joseph Park, Jr., of Rye; Abraham R. Van Nest, of New York, and John Hunter, of Westchester."

Source: Financial and Commercial . . . Railway Matters, N.Y. Herald, May 1, 1871, p. 9, col. 1.

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Wednesday, August 03, 2005

Early Reports Relating to Construction of the Branch Line (Part I)

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During the early 1870s, plans to build a branch railroad line parallel to the Long Island Sound ripened. The "Branch Line" as it came to be known was intended to serve the hamlet known as Bartow, City Island and parts of what we know today as the Village of Pelham Manor (among many other locations). Today's and tomorrow's Blog postings will reproduce early news accounts from the New York Herald describing developments regarding the creation of the line.

"HARLEM RIVER AND PORTCHESTER RAILROAD.
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Meeting in Favor of the Project -- Suburban Residents Clamoring for More Speedy Communication with New York.

A meeting composed of influential real estate owners of the town of Westchester, Westchester county, was held in the Town Hall of the former place on Monday evening, for the purpose of considering what measures were requisite to secure the early construction of the proposed Harlem River and Portchester Railroad. Among those present were William D. Bishop, President of the New York and New Haven Railroad, and many of the directors of the projected road.

After the meeting had been organized by the choice of William Watson, president, and the appointment of Claiborne Ferris, secretary, Mr. BISHOP in a somewhat lengthy address set forth the effect of opening a railroad in enhancing the value of land through which it might pass, as well as the inevitable appreciation which would follow regarding property contiguous to the proposed road. He contended that the population of Westchester and adjoining towns is too sparse at the present time to warrant the company in paying extravagant prices for land, and in addition construct a first class railroad: but that if those whose lands would be increased in value by the road would tender or provide the right of way, the company would immediately go to work and give them a first class railroad. Without some inducement on the part of the property owners along the line of the proposed road, he could not hold out much encouragement to the residents of that locality as to the time when the project would be carried out.

C. A. ROOSEVELT of Pelham, stated that the property owners of his town were prepared to tender the right of way.

A committee was then appointed on the part of the town of Westchester, to confer with similar bodies in behalf of the towns of Pelham and West Farms, to obtain the right of way for the contemplated railroad through those towns."

Source: Harlem River and Portchester Railroad, N.Y. Herald, Jun. 1, 1870, p. 6, col. 3.

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