The Early History of Pelham's Town Hall, Built in 1909

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Today's posting to the Historic Pelham Blog details the early history of Pelham's Town Hall designed by architect Frederick Roosevelt Loney.  It was built in 1909 and still stands on Fifth Avenue in the Village of Pelham.

Pelhamville Builds a Meeting Hall and Courthouse in 1890

By 1890, New York City was well on its way to assembling the lands necessary to create Pelham Bay Park.  Until that time, for nearly a century, City Island was the principal population center within the Town of Pelham.  Indeed, in 1857 and 1858, the Town of Pelham planned and built its first Town Hall and post office building on Shore Road on the mainland near City Island.  See Wed., Dec. 03, 2014:  Pelham Proposed To Build A Town Hall and Post Office in 1857.

With the creation of Pelham Bay Park and the likelihood of annexation of the area by New York City (which actually occurred in 1895), development on the mainland adjacent to City Island stopped.  It was clear that the population center of the Town was about to shift to the areas known as Pelhamville, Prospect Hill, and the real estate development area of the Pelham Manor and Huguenot Heights Association.

With such considerations in mind, on January 13, 1890, the citizens of the tiny community of Pelhamville gathered in a meeting and voted to build a public meeting hall and courthouse to be located on Fifth Avenue.  A brief item in The New York Times reported on their decision as follows:

"The Town Hall of Pelham has heretofore been at Bartow, which makes it a long distance for some of the people at that town to travel. The taxpayers of Pelhamville held a meeting on Monday night and decided to build a public hall to be used both as a Court House and as a place for transacting the public business of District No. 1. The lot upon which they propose to place it is on Fifth-avenue and the estimated cost of the building is $6,000." 

Source: City and Suburban News . . . Westchester County, N.Y. Times, Jan. 15, 1890, p. 3.

Once New York City annexed City Island and the lands assembled into Pelham Bay Park, the Town of Pelham began using the Pelhamville meeting hall and courthouse as its Town Hall.  

Detail from Undated Photograph of the Original Pelham

Town Hall on Fifth Avenue on an Election Day.  The Building 
Later Burned on the Evening of October 23, 1908 in a Suspicious Fire.
Source:  Courtesy of The Office of The Historian of The Town
of Pelham.  Note:  Click on Image to Enlarge.

Detail from Plate 20 of John F. Fairchild's

Atlas of Mount Vernon and Pelham Published

in 1899 Showing Location of Original Meeting

Hall and Courthouse on the Fifth Avenue Lot

Where Today's Pelham Town Hall Stands.

The Town Hall building built by Pelhamville in 1891 never seemed particularly sturdy.  Although it was the scene of many community gatherings, bazaars and dances, the roof began to sag and the floor nearly buckled beneath the weight of the Town safe.  One report published in 1897 stated:

"It has been found that the big safe in the town hall is slowly but surely sinking and taking the floor of the town clerk's office with it.  It also seems to be taking the center of the building, for when the clerk entered his office after the recent rain, he found the place flooded.  A mechanic was sent to the roof who reported that the center of the flat tin roof has a decided sag and a pond of water is collected there.  As the town hall is frequently the scene of entertainments and dances which draw large crowds, it is feared that a serious accident may occur.  It has been suggested that girders be placed under the safe which is the old one brought here a little over a year ago when New York City annexed the greater part of the town of Pelham, including City Island, where the old town hall stood."

Source:  PELHAM 30 YEARS AGO (Pelham Press, May 1, 1897), The Pelham Sun, May 6, 1927, p. 16, cols. 1-3.      

Fire Destroys the Original Town Hall

On the night of October 23, 1908, a group of men who had just left a Republican rally at the firehouse in the Village of North Pelham noticed odd flickering lights in the windows of the wooden Town Hall on Fifth Avenue.  Fearing the worst, one of the men broke down the door and smoke poured forth.  Town Hall was burning.  

Firefighters were summoned and the blaze was extinguished, but not before damaging the wooden structure beyond repair.  The cause of the fire was never determined, but later reports indicated a widespread belief that it was "incendiary" in origin -- most believed it was a case of arson.  

I have written before about the fire that destroyed the original Town Hall on Fifth Avenue.  See:  

Thu., Jan. 30, 2014:  The Night Pelham's Town Hall Burned.  

Fri., Jul. 13, 2007:  Midnight Fire Destroyed Pelham's Town Hall in October 1908.

Wed., May 12, 2010:  Fire Partly Destroyed Pelham Town Hall in 1908.

Proposal to Build a New Town Hall and Fund it Through Sale of Bonds

Within five weeks, the Town Board of the Town of Pelham proposed to construct a two-story concrete replacement on the site of the burned Town Hall building.  The Town Board reasoned that although it might be possible to repair the remnants of the partially-destroyed structure, it would cost thousands of dollars.  The Board preferred to replace the building with a more fire-resistant building more esthetically-appropriate for the developing area.  

The Town Board estimated that the new structure would cost about $20,000.  Thus, in a local newspaper article published on November 27, 1908, it was announced that the Town would call a special election to vote on a proposition to allow the Town to issue bonds to fund construction of a Town Hall that would "contain town offices and a police station on the first floor and a public hall on the second floor."

A Surprising Turn of Events in the Special Election:  The Women of Pelham Save the Day

The Town scheduled the special election for February 16, 1909.  There were two propositions on the ballot:  (1) a proposal to authorize the Town to issue $25,000 worth of bonds to fund construction of a new Town Hall "in the place of the one already owned by said town"; and (2) a proposal to authorize the Town to issue an additional $5,000 worth of bonds to fund the acquisition of a large parcel adjacent to the location of the burned courthouse to enable the Town to create a fitting park-like approach to the new building.

At first it appeared that both propositions would pass easily.  Indeed, according to news accounts, voter turnout was expected to be quite low.  On the eve of the special election, however, two groups opposed to the propositions gained momentum in their efforts to defeat the proposals.  Residents of the Village of Pelham Manor and the Village of Pelham (today's Pelham Heights), wanted the new Town Hall located in their respective villages and, thus, opposed any effort to fund any building to be located on the same site as the structure that burned (located in the Village of North Pelham).  A second group of Town residents opposed the propositions on the simple ground that they did not want any increase in their taxes, even though it was pointed out that "the interest annually on $25,000 at four per cent, would be only $1,000, which, spread over a a total assessed valuation of over four millions of dollars, would amount to less than one-quarter of a mill on each dollar of assessed valuation."

On the day of the election, Town residents watched as voters streamed in and tallied the changing results as the day wore on.  It became apparent by mid-morning that the opposition had been more successful than thought and that the propositions likely would fail.  That is when the women of Pelham sprang into action.  The headline of the New York Press in New York City said it best:  "PELHAM WOMEN VOTE FOR NEW TOWN HALL AT SPECIAL ELECTION." 


According to news accounts, once it seemed the two propositions might lose, automobiles, carriages, and other forms of transportation were dispatched throughout the Town to pick up women who favored construction of a new Town Hall and bring them back to the firehouse to vote.  One account claimed colorfully that women "clad in expensive gowns and furs rubbed elbows with those who had left their washtubs and household duties to cast their ballot."  The election became an exciting race and, it turned out, was one of the closest ever, up to the time.  The proposition to build the new courthouse passed by only four votes, 86 to 82.  The second proposition to acquire a lot adjoining the Town Hall lot failed, resoundingly, by a vote of 66 in favor and 92 against.  

Pelham would have a new Town Hall.

The Town Retains Frederick Roosevelt Loney of Pelham Manor, Architect

The Town of Pelham retained a young architect who lived in Pelham Manor.  The architect who designed Pelham's Town Hall was Frederick Roosevelt Loney.  Loney also designed Pelham Manor Village Hall.

Frederick Roosevelt Loney was a graduate of the Columbia University school of architecture in 1901 (although some reports indicate he graduated in 1900).  He practiced his profession in New York City and had an office at 15 West 38th Street.  

Loney was born January 14, 1878 in Skaneateles, New York.  He was a son of William A. and Alice L. Loney of Skaneateles.  Most of his early life was spent in that village.  He received a part of his preparatory education in Baltimore.  After graduating from Columbia University's school of architecture in 1901, Loney's first project was to designed a new home for his parents, which was built at East Genesee and Leilch Avenue, Skaneateles, and where his parents lived for many years thereafter.  Loney moved to Pelham Manor in 1904.

During World War I, Loney served as a "Captain in the Construction Division" accoring to one account.  He married Margery Fredericka Hughes on Tuesday, September 11, 1923, in a surprise elopement to the Municipal Building in New York City.  The couple eloped despite months of planning a more formal wedding for later that year (in late October).  Margery Fredericka Hughes was a granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Victor Cumming of 480 Park Avenue in New York City.  Although the couple reportedly took an apartment at 6 East Eighth Street in New York City, Loney appears to have retained his home in Pelham Manor. 

Although Loney worked as an architect for many years, there are suggestions that his practice never really took off as he had wished as a young man.  There even are suggestions that later in his career he became a real estate broker.  Loney and his wife had a son named Frederick Roosevelt Loney, Jr.

Loney died young, at the age of 56, on Tuesday, April 10, 1934.  He died of a heart attack after collapsing in his home at 1040 Pelhamdale Avenue in Pelham Manor.  His wife and son survived him.

Records indicate that Loney designed some small structures (such as a garage) in New York City.  There also is evidence that he designed one or more residences in the Town of Pelham.  (See below).

Page from September, 1914 Issue of American

Homes and Gardens Reflecting Home in the

Village of Pelham Manor Designed by F. R. Loney.

Source:  "A HOUSE AT PELHAM MANOR, NEW YORK"

in American Homes and Gardens, Vol. XI, No. 9

(Sep., 1914).  NOTE:  Click Image to Enlarge.

Construction of the New Town Hall Designed by Frederick R. Loney

At a meeting held in April, 1909, the Town Board voted to approve plans and specfications for the new Town Hall.  The plans prepared by Loney called for "a two-story reinforced concrete building, 37 feet wide and 74 feet deep."  Thereafter, the Town Board shared the plans with residents of the Town by putting them on display in the local drugstore of Seth T. Lyman located at One Fifth Avenue.  According to one account, the plans displayed in the drugstore window showed the following:

"The plans of the interior on the main floor call for two rooms on the north side as follows:  Board room, 14 by 20 feet; a room 6 ft. 10 inches by 11 ft. 10 inches.  On the south side the plans for the first floor show these rooms:  Guard room, 13 ft. 4 inches by 14 ft.; cell room, 14 ft. by 17.3 in., and toilet.  A large court room is located in the rear of the building on the first floor 20 ft. by 30 ft.  On the second floor there are two ante-rooms, both of which are 9 ft. 6 in. by 14 ft., and a large assembly hall, 35 ft. by 51 ft. 6 in."

On Friday, May 14, 1909, workmen began demolishing the remnants of the former Town Hall that had burned the previous October.  To raise the funds for construction, on the evening of Thursday, July 15, 1909, the Town Board held a special meeting during which they auctioned $20,000 worth of bonds.  Only two bidders appeared.  A New York City firm bought the $20,000 worth of bonds with a bid of 4.35% nterest and a premium of $41.  The only other bidder was Adams & Co.

With funds in hand and architectural designs in hand, construction began.  Newspaper accounts make clear that by August 10, 1909, construction was underway.  By August 20, the foundation was practically completed and the men were already at work on the walls of the first story putting the frames up for the concrete.  

Construction continued at a brisk pace throughout the autumn of 1909.  By October 4, the principal structure was complete and the roof was already installed and some of the frames containing the cement had been removed.  Twelve days later, on October 16, men were installing the tiles on the roof of the building.  

By November 26, work was all but complete.  A local building inspector inspected the premises, noting that the work that was underway was minor.  One report noted that "In a few days the windows will be put in and the interior cleaned."  A local newspaper noted that the building would be complete within two weeks.

The New Town Hall

Upon its opening, the new Town Hall served as a Police headquarters, a Town Board meeting hall, and a community center for the entire community.  The building hosted church bazaars, community gatherings, meetings, and all manner of public events.  

Within a very short time, the Town's needs for such space seem to have outgrown Town Hall.  Indeed, in August, 1929 -- on the very eve of the Great Depression, the Mayor of the Village of North Pelham, Edward B. Harder, complained that the Town of Pelham had "outgrown its present quarters in the town hall, and that a campaign for a new town hall would be started soon."  Judge A. M. Menkel agreed with Mayor Harder and said that the town government ought to consider plans for a new building.  Barely two months later the stock market crash and the onset of the Great Depression seemed to have squashed any such plans.

Undated Post Card View of the Town Hall Showing It Shortly

After It Was Built.  Note the Stucco Surface and the Spanish

Tile Roof of the Original Structure.

Pelham Town Hall in 1913 from The Pelham Sun.

Undated Post Card View of Pelham Town Hall, Ca. 1940s.

Pen and Ink Drawing of Pelham Town Hall Published in 1962.

Recent Photograph of Pelham Town Hall.  Note the Brick Facade

at the Front Entrance and the Slate Roof that Now Adorns

the Building.

*          *          *          *          *

Below is text from a host of news articles beaing on the early history of Pelham Town Hall.  Each is followed by a citation and a link to its source.  

"PELHAM TO HAVE A NEW TOWN HALL, IF VOTERS APPROVE.
-----
Proposition to be Submitted at Special Election -- Cost Estimated at $20,000.
-----

North Pelham, Nov. 27. -- As a result of the fire which practically destroyed the court house on Fifth avenue, it is proposed by the town board of Pelham to build a new town hall on the site of the present structure.  The matter will be presented to the voters in a proposition to be voted on some time next month.

It is proposed to erect a two-story concrete structure which will contain town offices and a police station on the first floor and a public hall on the second floor.  The building will cost about $20,000.

The present wooden edifice was erected in 1891.  The fire last October ruined the woodwork, while a portion of the rear section has been destroyed.  The roof itself is useless, the flooring is not in a satisfactory condition and the vault is of no use to the town.  

It would cost the town several thousand dollars to get the present wooden building in condition for occupancy and there are many in the town who are of the opinion that it would be much better to spend that money toward the erection of a new building."

Source:  PELHAM TO HAVE A NEW TOWN HALL, IF VOTERS APPROVE -- Proposition to be Submitted at Special Election -- Cost Estimated at $20,000, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], Nov. 27, 1908, p. 1, col. 2.

"VICINITY NEWS
-----
NORTH PELHAM
-----
SPECIAL ELECTION
-----
On February 16 to Vote on Appropriation for a Town Hall.
-----

A special election will be held in the town on Tuesday morning, February 16, for the purpose of voting on propositions of appropriating $30,000 for the purchase of a site and for the erection of a new town hall to cost $25,000.  

The present town hall was gutted by fire last October.  The fire took place a few moments after a big Republican mass meeting, which was held in Firemen's hall, and was believed to have been of incendiary origin.  Since that time the hall has not been fit for use, and it was the opinion that it would be better to build a new building instead of repairing the old one.

Notices read as follows:  Notice is hereby given that, pursuant to an application, a special meeting of the electors will be held at the fire house in the village of North Pelham on the 16th day of February for the purpose of voting by ballot upon the following questions and propositions:

First -- Shall a sum not exceeding $25,000 be raised and appropriated for the purpose of constructing and furnishing a new town hall in and for the said town of Pelham in the place of the one already owned by said town?

Second -- Shall a sum not exceeding $5,000 be raised and appropriated  for the purpose of acquiring a site upon which to erect such town hall, which new site shall consist of the present site of the town hall and additional property immediately adjoining and contiguous thereto, and for the transaction of such other business as hall be lawfully brought before said meeting.

The polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m."

Source:  VICINITY NEWS -- NORTH PELHAM -- SPECIAL ELECTION -- On February 16 to Vote on Appropriation for a Town Hall, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], Feb. 6, 1909, p. 5, p. , col. 1.

"CONTEST IN PELHAM NOW
-----
Special Election There Tomorrow to Vote For a New Town Hall
-----
OPPOSITION DEVELOPS
-----
In Pelham and the Manor, Against North Pelham Over Question of the Site

North Pelham, Feb. 15. -- This town is going to witness another exciting election, it is said tomorrow.  A vote is to be taken on the proposition to appropriate funds for a new town hall, to replace the old one which was so mysteriously burned on the night of the Republican parade and rally, a week prior to the last election.  Until yesterday, it was believed that but a small vote would be cast tomorrow, and that the propositions would be carried by a safe majority.  Now, it is said that a concerted movement is being made in the villages of Pelham and Pelham Manor to defeat the project of securing a new building to take the place of the present gutted structure which has been the scene of so many historic public assemblages and famed judicial hearings in the past.  

Plans have been prepared by order of the town fathers for a reinforced concrete two-story structure, which it is said, can be erected at a cost not to exceed $20,000.  It is also said that the sketch and plan show an attractive building, which, if erected, would be a decided ornament to the community as well as providing a suitable place for town meetings, police court and lock-up for prisoners.  The town at present owns a plot on the easterly side of Fifth avenue, in North Pelham which is 50 feet front by 100 feet deep, and it is proposed to build the new hall on this property, which is the site of the present court house, and to acquire additional property to the south of it.

It was said today that the Pelhamites and Pelham Manorites, or some of them, are opposing the propositions on the ground that the new building should be erected in Pelham Manor or Pelham.  People of North Pelham contend that the present site is the logical one for the transacting of the business of the town, because it is in the center of population, and is the most accessible point from all directions with reference to transportation facilities.

There are some of the electors, it is also claimed, who will vote against the appropriations on the ground of the additional burden which would be thereby imposed on the property owners, but it is pointed out that the interest annually on $25,000 at four per cent, would be only $1,000, which, spread over a a total assessed valuation of over four millions of dollars, would amount to less than one-quarter of a mill on each dollar of assessed valuation.

The majority in North Pelham appear to be in favor of the propositions but a spirited contest is now expected.  The polls open at 6 a.m., and close at 11 a.m."

Source: CONTEST IN PELHAM NOW -- Special Election There Tomorrow to Vote For a New Town Hall -- OPPOSITION DEVELOPS -- In Pelham and the Manor, Against North Pelham Over Question of the Site, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], Feb. 15, 1909, p. 1, col. 3.  

"WOMEN VOTED IN ELECTION 
----- 
At Pelham Today 
----- 
New Town Hall Project Carried By Four Votes 
----- 
SITE PROPOSITION LOST 
----- 
Close Contest and Much Electioneering This Morning -- Total Vote Cast, 177
-----

North Pelham, Feb. 16 -- The women voters of the town who are property owners played an important part in the special election which was held this morning in the fire house on Fifth avenue, for the purpose of voting on two propositions, the first of which called for the raising and appropriating of $25,000 for the erection of a new town hall, while the second proposition asked for the expenditure of $5,000, for the purchase of a new site aadjoining the present town hall, which was gutted by fire last October.  The first proposition was carried by four votes, while the second proposition was lost by 26.

The vote was as follows:  First proposition, straight ballots, yes, 56; no, 79; split ballots, yes, 30, no, 3; total vote, yes, 86, no, 82.  Second proposition, straight ballots, yes, 56; no, 79, split ballots, yes, 10, no, 13; total, yes, 66; no, 92.  Total vote cast, 177.  Void ballots, 2.  

The polls opened at 6 a.m.  Between the hours of six and seven o'clock, the voting was slow.  Later in the morning more voters visited the polls.  At 9 o'clock a semblance of a contest began and continued unabated until the polls closed at 11 o'clock.  At 9 o'clock, the leaders of the opposition forces who were determined to defeat both propositions hurried the voters from Pelham and Pelham Manor in carriages and automobiles.  Many fashionably dressed women from some of the wealthiest families in the Manor, were brought to the polls from their homes in their automobiles.  These ladies took great interest in the election and seemed eager to cast their ballots.  

It was not until 10 o'clock, when the outlook for the successful passage of the two propositions was dubious, on account of the efforts of the Pelham and Pelham Manor people, that the North Pelham leaders actually began their work.  It was apparent to many that unless more voters came from North Pelham that both propositions would be lost.  Accordingly, several vehicles were hired and for an hour many voters were brought to the poles [sic].  Most of them were women.

The polls closed at 11 o'clock.  Men gathered about the members of the town board as they counted the votes.  When it was announced that the straight votes for and agaisnt the two propositions were 56 yes and 79 no, many believed that the two propositions had been lost.

It was one of the closest elections ever held in the town."

Source:  WOMEN VOTED IN ELECTION -- At Pelham Today -- New Town Hall Project Carried By Four Votes -- SITE PROPOSITION LOST -- Close Contest and Much Electioneering This Morning -- Total Vote Cast, 177, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], Feb. 16, 1909, p. 1, col. 5.

"PELHAM WOMEN VOTE FOR NEW TOWN HALL AT SPECIAL ELECTION
-----
Some Go to Polls from Pelham, Pelham Manor and Pelham Heights in Automobiles and Rub Elbows with Housewives of the Washtub.
-----

There was the liveliest kind of a time to-day when the women of Pelham, Pelham Heights, Pelham Manor and North Pelham voted on a proposition to erect a new town hall.  Women in automobiles and clad in expensive gowns and furs rubbed elbows with those who had left their washtubs and household duties to cast their ballot for or against the proposition, as they saw fit.  Automobiles, carriages and other vehicles were brought into use to get out the vote in the fire house in Fifth avenue, Pelham.

When the votes were counted it was found that the first proposition, to build a new town hall to cost $25,000, had been darried by a vote of 86 for as against 82 in opposition.  The second proposition, to purchase an additional piece of ground for $5,000, was lost, however, by a vote of 92 to 66, some of the women not voting on this at all.

The old Town Hall and Court House was destroyed by fire in October last, following a big republican meeting that was held in it [sic].  It was the work of an incendiary.

Now the selection of a proper site for this new building will occupy the attention of the local authorities and it is expected much opposition will develop unless the new town hall is built on the site of the old one."

Source:  PELHAM WOMEN VOTE FOR NEW TOWN HALL AT SPECIAL ELECTION, The Evening Telegram [NY, NY], Feb. 16, 1909, p. 3, cols. 1-2.  See also WOMEN VOTE FOR A TOWN HALL, The New York Press [NY, NY], Feb. 17, 1909, p. 7, col. 6.  

"NEWS FROM THE VICINITY TOWNS . . . 
NORTH PELHAM. 
----- 
Location of New Town Hall.

Now that the matter of a new town hall has been definitely settled, and in view of the fat that the proposition for the purchase of an additional site has been defeated, the question was asked in the village on Tuesday, after the election, where the new town hall would be located.  The proposition relative to the new town hall reads as follows:  'Shall a sum not exceeding $25,000 be raised and appropriated for the purpose of constructing and finishing a new town hall in and for the purpose of constructing and finishing a new town hall in and for the town of Pelham, in place of the one already owned by said town.'  This proposition does not state where the new town hall will be located.  It simply states 'in the place of the one already owned.'  Mr. Anderson stated Tuesday that the new town hall would be built upon the site of the old structure.

Source:  NEWS FROM THE VICINITY TOWNS . . . NORTH PELHAM -- Location of New Town Hall, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon], Feb. 18, 1909, p. 5, cols. 2-3.  

"TOWN TOPICS . . . 

--The town board of Pelham, at its last meeting, adopted plans and specifications for the new town hall building which is to be erected this summer on Fifth avenue, and for the construction of which the town voted at a rather exciting special election, several weeks ago, to issue bonds for $25,000.  The plans call for a two-story reinforced concrete building, 37 feet wide and 74 feet deep."

Source:  TOWN TOPICS, New Rochelle Pioneer, Apr. 24, 1909, p. 5, cols. 1-3, 3.  

"VICINITY NEWS . . . 
NORTH PELHAM. . . . 
Taking Down Old Building.

Workmen began on Friday to tear down the old court house on Fifth avenue, North Pelham, in order that the new town hall may be built on the site."

Source:  VICINITY NEWS . . . NORTH PELHAM . . . Taking Down Old Building, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], May 18, 1909, p. 5, col. 1.  

"VICINITY NEWS
-----
NORTH PELHAM.
-----

* * *

Drawings of New Town Hall.

Drawings of the new town hall, which may and may not be a reality, have been placed in the window of Lyman's drug store on Fifth avenue.  The drawing of the exterior shows a building which will be in keeping with that part of the village North Pelham which is being improved.  It shows a two-story building with attractive decorations and an entrance facing on Fifth avenue and one on the north side of the building.  The architect evidently took it for granted that the proposition asking for an appropriation of $5,000 for an additional tract of land would be passed, for his drawing shows a beautiful lawn to the north of the building.  The plans of the interior on the main floor call for two rooms on the north side as follows:  Board room, 14 by 20 feet; a room 6 ft. 10 inches by 11 ft. 10 inches.  On the south side the plans for the first floor show these rooms:  Guard room, 13 ft. 4 inches by 14 ft.; cell room, 14 ft. by 17.3 in., and toilet.  A large court room is located in the rear of the building on the first floor 20 ft. by 30 ft.  On the second floor there are two ante-rooms, both of which are 9 ft. 6 in. by 14 ft., and a large assembly hall, 35 ft. by 51 ft. 6 in.  F. R. Loney is the architect."

Source:  VICINITY NEWS -- NORTH PELHAM . . . Drawings of New Town Hall, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], May 27, 1909, p. 5, col. 1.  

"VICINITY NEWS
-----
NORTH PELHAM. . . . 

Local Notes.

At a special meeting of the town board held Thursday night, Seymour & ----- Co., of New York, bought the $20,000 worth of bonds for the construction of the new town hall.  Their bid was 4.35 per cent. interest and premium, $41.  The only other bidder was Adams & Co., whose rate of interest was 4 1/2 per cent., and $101.03 for each $100."

Source:  VICINITY NEWS -- NORTH PELHAM . . . Local Notes, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon], Jul. 17, 1909, p. 5, col. 1.  

"VICINITY NEWS 
----- 
NORTH PELHAM. ----- 
PROGRESS OF VILLAGE. 
----- 
Is Apparent as Recent Improvements Are Recalled. 
-----

The appearance of the village of North Pelham has greatly changed during the past five years, owing to the improvements that have taken place here and the erection of new houses and buildings.  

There is no section of the village which has undergone greater improvement and enhanced the beauty of that particular section in proximity to the passenter station than Winyah Park.  The entrance to the locality, with sloping lawns and embankments is especially attractive.

There is now in the course of construction a Masonic hall, located on an eminence overlooking Fifth avenue, which will be one of the attractive buildings in the village when completed.  Work has also been started on the new town hall.

There is likewise to be constructed in a short time a modern sewer system.  There is every reason to believe that the growth of the village will be tremendous when the New York, Westchester and Boston railroad is completed, as there will be a station in North Pelham."

Source:  VICINITY NEWS -- NORTH PELHAM. -- PROGRESS OF VILLAGE. -- Is Apparent as Recent Improvements Are Recalled, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], Aug. 10, 1909, p. 5, col. 1. 

"Vicinity News . . . 
NORTH PELHAM. . . . 
Good Progress Made.

Good progress is being made in the construction of the new town hall on Fifth avenue.  Already the foundation is practically completed and the men are now at work on the walls of the first story putting the frames up for the concrete.  When this building is completed, the section adjacent to the new town hall will be the most attractive in the village, in view of the improvements which have recently been completed in Winyah Park."

Source:  Vicinity News . . . NORTH PELHAM . . . Good Progress Made, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], Aug. 20, 1909, p. 5, cols. 1-2.  

"HAND LACERATED.
-----
Workman Showed Great Presence of Mind in Accident.

North Pelham, Aug. 28--William Curtis, of New Rochelle, met with a painful accident in North Pelham this morning.  He was at work with a number of other men, at the mixing machine for concrete, which is being used in connection with the construction of the new town hall, when his right hand was caught in the knives.

He showed great presence of mind when he pulled his hand out of the machine before the arm was drawn in.  One of his fingers was partially cut off and the hand badly bruised.

A physician was summoned and the injured man later went to his home in New Rochelle."

Source:  HAND LACERATED, New Rochelle Pioneer, Sep. 4, 1909, p. 7, col. 7.

"Vicinity News 
NORTH PELHAM. . . .
Local Briefs. . . . 

Excellent progress is being made in the construction of the new town hall.  The roof is already on and some of the frames containing the cement have been removed."

Source:  Vicinity News . . . NORTH PELHAM . . . Local Briefs, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], Oct. 4, 1909, p. 7, col. 1.  

"NEWS OF A DAY IN ADJACENT TOWNS 
----- 
NORTH PELHAM. . . . 
Local Jottings . . . 

The new town hall is rapidly nearing completion and it will soon be ready for occupancy.  Men are now at work tiling the roof. . . ."

Source:  NEWS OF A DAY IN ADJACENT TOWNS -- NORTH PELHAM. . . . Local Jottings, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], Oct. 16, 1909, p. 9, col. 1.  

"NEWS OF A DAY IN ADJACENT TOWNS
-----
NORTH PELHAM
-----
NEW TOWN HALL
-----
Will Be Completed in About Two Weeks it is Said.

The new town hall will be completed in about two weeks.  This announcement was made this morning by S. E. Lyon, the inspector.  Mr. Lyon escorted an Argus representative through the building and explained the construction.  Most of the work is now completed.  Men were busy finishing some of the minor details.  In a few days the windows will be put in and the interior cleaned.

It is a reinforced concrete structure, finished in stucco, has a red tiled roof and is two stories high.  It stands on the site of the old court house.  

There are two entrances both of which are adorned with columns.  The main entrance faces Fifth avenue and opens into a wide corridor, which extends through the middle of the building with a red tiled flooring.  On the right of the hall are the village board room, another room, side hall entrance, ante room while in the rear is a commodious court room with beamed ceiling.  On the left side of the hall are closets, a large room for cells and a guard room.  The side entrance opens up into the main hall from the south side of the building.  

Leading from the main hall in the front of the building are winding platform stairs which go up on either side and meet in front of the large assembly hall which is of good size and is beautified with a sloping ceiling.  The trimmings on the interior of the building are dark.  

According to the specifications the walls are thoroughly seasoned and the surface is coated with asphalt, which is of a refined product, the lighter oils having been removed by distillation.  The cellar floor is finished with concret.  All of the exterior walls and columns, pilasters on south front of [the] building, all of the interior columns, stairs and stair strings, first and second story floors, beams and girders, exterior string course, etc., are of reinforced concrete.  The chimney above the roof is finjished in stucco.

The interior and exterior of the building has been made attractive with a white finish which has been applied over the stucco and on the ceiling and beams of the porch in the south side of the building.  The ceiling in the board room has been plastered on the approved galvanized stiffened wire lath hung just below the bottom of the beams.  The other first story ceilings have been plastered directly on the second story floor slabs, beams and girders.  There are simple cornices in the first story halls and corridors and also at the junction of the beams and walls with the court room ceiling.  A steel safe which was located in the old building has been placed in the village board room of the present structure.

In the first and second story stair halls and in the first story corridors red Walsh quarry tile between the granolithic borders has been laid.  The sloping roofs are covered with red vitrified Spanish tile.  All surfaces intersecting the roofs, the roofs of louvers, gutters, etc., are covered with sixteen ounce soft copper.

All of the outside trim unless otherwise specified is of white pine.  The building will be lighted by electricity and will be heated by a low pressure steam apparatus which has already been installed.  

Source:  NEWS OF A DAY IN ADJACENT TOWNS -- NORTH PELHAM -- NEW TOWN HALL -- Will Be Completed in About Two Weeks it is Said, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], Nov. 26, 1909, p. 7, col. 1.  

"CHURCH BAZAAR IN TOWN HALL
-----
THE CHURCH OF THE REDEEMER PROMISES GREAT THINGS FOR ITS BAZAAR, WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE THURSDAY AND FRIDAY.
-----

On Thursday and Friday of next week, November 17th and 18th, there will be a grand bazaar in the New Town Hall, North Pelham, in connection with the Church of the Redeemer, the proceeds of which will be devoted to the erection of a new parish house.  The bazaar will be opened formally on Thursday evening at 7.30 o'clock and will be continued the following afternoon and evening.  It is proposed to have various booths in charge of the different church organizations.

The Ladies Guild will have under its care booths containing all kinds of fancy articles, aprons, notions, cake, candy, refreshments, ice cream, etc.

The following are the officers of the Guild:  Mrs. David Lyon, President; Mrs. Jacob Heisser, Vice-president; Miss Florence Archer, Secretary; Mrs. I. C. Hill, Correspoinding Secretary; Miss Offinger, Treasurer; Mrs. Ellsworth Totten, Treasurer of Charity Work.

The Chancel Guild will conduct a 'Country Store,' where things of an ordinary and extraordinary character may be purchased, and will be in charge of Mrs. Walter Torrence, Miss Wilcox, Mrs. Albert Steinback, Mrs. Walter Scott and others.

A Japanese booth will be conducted by the members of the church choir.  Flower and plants will be sold by the Girls' Friendly Society.  There will be many other interesting features such as a fishing poind, grab bag, fortune telling, etc.

The hall will be attractively decorated.  The design and color scheme being supplied by Mrs. John Young, the well known scenic artist.

It is to be hoped that the residents of the town will liberally patronize the affair.  The ladies and gentlemen in charge are working to bring about success and they deserve to accomplish it.

Supervisor Edgar C. Beecroft has consented to open the bazaar on Thursday evening."

Source:  CHURCH BAZAAR IN TOWN HALL, The Pelham Sun, Nov. 12, 1910, Vol. 1, No. 32, p. 1, col. 3.  

"New Town Hall Sought By North Pelham Mayor
-----
Official Says Town Has Outgrown Present Building -- Cites Police Rooms As Example -- Building Up In 1909.
-----

Belief that the town of Pelham has outgrown its present quarters in the town hall, and that a campaign for a new town hall would be started soon, was expressed last night by Mayor Edward B. Harder, of North Pelham.  Judge A. M. Menkel agreed with Mayor Harder and said that the town government ought to consider plans for a new building.

Mayor Harder's first statement last night was made after a crowd of motorists and spectators filled the court room to capacity, causing several persons to stand in the hallway.  He later said that the police department room was old, ill-appearing, and not in keeping with the general appearance of a department, and that all the evils could be remedied with a new town hall.

The present building was built in 1909, when Edgar C. Beecroft, present attorney for Pelham Manor, was supervisor.  The building houses a police department room, a squad room, a cell room, a board room, and a court room downstairs, while the second story is given over to the meeting room of the town board, the clerk's office, and the office of the tax receiver.

Up to a short time ago, the local library had its quarters in a corner of the town board room, but space was provided at the Hutchinson school, and the library moved out.  

If plans are made for a new building, it will be erected on the same site, it is believed.  However, no discussion has been held by the town board, whose scheduled meeting Wednesday night was not called because of the absence of a quorum.  Supervisor David Lyon is away until September and it is expected that no discussion will be held on it until he returns, and in all likelihood, until after the fall elections, when a supervisor and two justices will be chosen."

Source:  New Town Hall Sought By North Pelham Mayor, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], Aug. 9, 1929, p. 18, cols. 1-2.  

"Frederick Loney Rites Tomorrow in Skaneateles
-----

Frederick Roosevelt Loney, a former resident of Skaneateles, died at his home in Pelham Manor, near New York City, last night, according to word received in Syracuse yesterday by Miss Mabel Allen Avery of 686 West Onondaga Street, a cousin.

Mr. Loney was born in Skaneateles nearly 60 years ago, a son of William A. and Alice L. Loney.  Most of his early life was spent in that village.  He received a part of his preparatory education in Baltimore, and later was graduated from Columbia University's architectural school.  After his graduation, Mr. Loney designed a new home for his parents, which was built at East Genesee and Leilch Avenue, Skaneateles, as his first project, and until his father's death about 20 years ago, was a frequent visitor at the East Genesee Street home.

Mr. Loney was a brother of Mrs. Frederick Roosevelt, who lived in Skaneateles many years, and of the late Mrs. Harry F. Abbott of Pelham Manor.  A niece, Miss Virginia Loney, was rescued from the torpedoed Lusitania.  Her parents were lost in the disaster and Miss Loney inherited a large fortune.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Marjorie Loney; a son, Frederick Loney; a niece, Mrs. Abbott Geer, the former Miss Virginia Loney, all of Pelham Manor, and the cousin, Miss Avery.

Funeral services were conducted in Pelham Manor today, and the body will be forwarded to Skaneateles where burial will take place tomorrow."

Source:  Frederick Loney Rites Tomorrow in Skaneateles, The Citizen-Advertiser [Auburn, NY], Apr. 12, 1934, p. 8, col. 4. 

"Frederick R. Loney Designer of Town Hall Died Tuesday
-----
Had Been Resident of Pelham Manor Since 1904, Also Designed Pelham Manor Village Hall.
-----

Frederick Roosevelt Loney, 56, retired architect, designer of the Pelham Town Hall and the Pelham Manor Village Hall died suddenly at his home at No. 1040 Pelhamdale avenue on Monday.  Death was caused by a heart attack.

Mr. Loney was a native of Skaneatles, the son of the late William Allan Loney and Alice Louise Loney.  He received his degree in architecture at Columbia in 1900 and came to Pelham in 1904.  He was the designer of many prominent Westchester County residences.

He is survived by his wife Mrs. Margery Hughes Loney; a son, Frederick Roosevelt Loney Jr., of Pelham Manor and a sister, Mrs. Frederick Roosevelt of New York City.

Funeral services were held yesterday afternoon at the Church of the Redeemer, in North Pelham.  The Rev. H. Brown, rector of the church officiated.  Interment will be in Skaneateles.

The deceased was a member of the Church of the Redeemer and the St. Anthony Club of New York City."

Source:  Frederick R. Loney Designer of Town Hall Died Tuesday -- Had Been Resident of Pelham Manor Since 1904, Also Designed Pelham Manor Village Hall, The Pelham Sun, Apr. 13, 1934, Vol. 25, No. 4, p. 1, col. 1.   

"Obituary News . . . 

FREDERICK R. LONEY

Frederick Roosevelt Loney, fifty-six, 1040 Pelhamdale Avenue, Pelham Manor, died suddenly yesterday at his home of a heart attack.  

Mr. Loney, a real estate broker in New York City, was born in Skaneateles January 14, 1878, a son of William Allen and Alice Louise Loney.

He had lived in Pelham Manor since 1904 and was a member of Church of the Redeemer, North Pelham, and the St. Anthony Club, New York City.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Margery Hughes Loney; a son, Frederick Loney, and a sister, Mrs. Frederick Roosevelt, New York City.

Funeral services will be held tomorrow at 4:15 P. M. at Church of the Redeemer, North Pelham, with the Rev. Herbert H. Brown, minister, officiating.  Interment will be in Skaneateles."

Source:  Obituary News . . . FREDERICK R. LONEY, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], Apr. 11, 1934, p. 2, col. 3.  

"Frederick Loney Dies At Pelham Manor

Word of the Death of Frederick Roosevelt Loney, former resident of Skaneateles, at his home in Pelham Manor, near New York City, Tuesday night, has been received by his cousin, Miss Mabel Allen Avery, 686 W. Onondaga st.

Born in Skaneateles nearly 60 years ago, Mr. Loney was a son of William A. and Alice L. Loney.

Mr. Loney was a brother of Mrs. Frederick Roosevelt, resident of Skaneateles for many years, and of the late Mrs. Harry F. Abbott of Pelham Manor.  A niece, Miss Virginia Loney, was rescued from the torpedoed Lusitania, in which disaster both her parents were lost.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Marjorie Loney; a son, Frederick Loney; a niece, Mrs. Abbott Geer, all of Pelham Manor, and his cousin."

Source:  Frederick Loney Dies At Pelham Manor, Syracuse Journal, Apr. 12, 1934, p. 33, col. 8.

"GIVE WEDDING SURPRISE.
-----
F. R. Loney and Margery Hughes Wed at Municipal Building.

Frederick Roosevelt Loney and Miss Margery Fredericka Hughes, a granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Victor Cumming of 480 Park Avenue, whose wedding was being planned for the last week in October, slipped quietly into the Municipal Building on Tuesday and were married and then informed their families.  The announcement of the wedding will come as a surprise to their friends.  Their engagement was announced in January last.

The bride is a daughter of Frederick Thomas Hughes of Australia and Mr. Loney is a son of Mr. and Mrs. William A. Loney of New York and Baltimore.

Mr. Loney was graduated from the Columbia School of Architecture, and during the war served as a Captain in the Construction Division.  He and his bride will occupy his apartment at 6 East Eighth Street."

Source:  GIVE WEDDING SURPRISE -- F. R. Loney and Margery Hughes Wed at Municipal Building, N.Y. Times, Sep. 13, 1923, p. 19, p. 2.    

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