Red Cross Work of Pelham Residents During the Spanish American War in the 19th Century

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The giant ship carried about five long tons (5.1 tons) of explosive powder charges for its six and ten-inch guns.  In January, 1898, the United States sent the vessel from Key West, Florida, to Havana, Cuba to protect U.S. interests during the Cuban War of Independence.  To this day, nearly 120 years later, no one is certain what happened.  But, it is known that at 9:40 p.m. local time in Havana Harbor, Cuba, the explosive powder charges ignited and a monumental explosion obliterated the forward third of the USS Maine, sinking the U.S. Navy vessel.  Two officers and 251 sailors and marines were killed by the explosion or drowned in its aftermath.  Of 94 survivors, only sixteen were uninjured.

Almost immediately, cries of "Remember the Maine!" echoed throughout the United States.  The United States intervened in the Cuban War of Independence.  American acquisition of Spain's Pacific possessions thereafter led to U.S. involvement in the Philippine Revolution and, ultimately in the Philippine-American War.  Called the "Spanish-American War," the conflict raged from April 21, 1898 until August 13, 1898.  See "Spanish-American War" in Wikipedia:  The Free Encyclopedia (visited Nov. 4, 2017).  

During the brief Spanish-American War, Pelham lost one of her own:  Harry Patterson.  Pelham also stepped up and provided support for the soldiers and sailors who fought for the United States during the war.  Today's Historic Pelham article details a little of that important support on the home front.

Explosion of the USS Maine.

NOTE:  Click on Image to Enlarge.

Shortly after the war began, Land and Sea Auxiliary No. 22, Red Cross, became active in the region in support of the war effort.  Though led principally by Pelham and New Rochelle women, the organization encompassed women, "Juniors" (younger woment), and some men from Pelham Manor, New Rochelle, Larchmont, Mamaroneck, and other parts of Westchester County.  Many communities, including Pelham Manor, organized their own branches of Land and Sea Auxiliary No. 22.

According to a local newspaper report, by June 18, 1898, the Pelham Manor Branch of Land and Sea Auxiliary No. 22, Red Cross was organized.  Mrs. Frank K. Hunter was president.  Mrs. Robert Clifford Black was Vice President.  Mrs. John Cunningham Hazen (head mistress of Mrs. Hazen's School for Girls) was secretary, and Mrs. Jabish Holmes was treasurer.

The Pelham Manor Branch immediately began to raise money and to collect donations of reading materials, clothing, and first aid equipment for distribution to American troops during the War.  On Thursday, June 23, the Branch hosted a "garden fete" fundraiser at the Westchester Country Club.  The garden fete raised $1,500 for the benefit of American troops.  Two days later the group hosted a fundraiser dance at the Manor Club club house.

By July 9 the regional Auxiliary had "347 members and 165 juniors, not including men, who are associate members."  Also by that date the Auxiliary had "secured by entertainments and contributions $3,157.45, and sent 2,929 garments, towels and bandages and six large boxes and two barrels of books and literature to the soldiers and sailors.  The gifts include two checks, one for $500 from Adrian Iselin, and one for $100 from Colonel Delancey A. Kane." 

Within the next three weeks, the Pelham Manor women shipped 3,014 books to American troops.  They shipped 909 "garments" as well.  They also shipped bandages and other first aid equipment.  They participated with other branches in the region to raise additional funds.  Indeed, at a meeting of the entire Auxiliary including all branches held in New Rochelle Town Hall on August 2, 1898, the president of the entire Auxiliary, Mrs. Frank K. Hunter (also president of the Pelham Manor branch of the Auxiliary, and the treasurer of the entire Auxiliary, Mrs. Robert T. Emmett of Pelham Manor, announced that the Auxiliary already had raised $4,444.84, and had incurred expenditures of $2,555.89 including fundraising expenditures and expenditures to provide necessaries to American troops engaged in the War effort.

During mid-August, according to one report:

"The Pelham Manor Branch of Auxiliary No. 22, Red Cross Society has sent during the last two weeks 430 articles of literature contributed by Mrs. Hammett, Mrs. Coleman, Mrs. Robert, Mrs. Black, Mrs. Secor, Miss Secor, Mrs. Gillett, Mrs. Whiting, Mrs. Carson and Mr. Thomas 3174 articles, books, magazines and papers have been sent.  The Work committee have sent 31 shirts, 63 bands, 24 sanitary squares, 16 towels.  The supplies sent were 1 dozen Anker's bouillin capsules, 1 dozen packages ground barley, 16 cans clam broth, 6 lbs. of tea.  These supplies were contributed by the Hillside Club of Mansfield, Conn."

Though the brief war ended on August 13, 1898, the Pelham Manor Branch of the Auxiliary continued its work for several months.  Indeed, the Pelham women involved with the initiative continued their work with the Red Cross for quite some time after the war.

Then, as now, Pelhamites "Remember the Maine!"

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"BRIEF AND NEWSY. . . 

--The Pelham Manor branch of Land and Sea Auxiliary No. 22, Red Cross, has been organized by the election of Mrs. F. K. Hunter, president; Mrs. R. C. Black, vice-president; Mrs. John C. Hazen, secretary; Mrs. Jabish Holmes, treasurer.  The first entertainment in aid of the fund will be a dance in the Manor Club house next Saturday evening.  The women of the Westchester branch of the Auxiliary will hold a garden fete on Thursday, June 23, at the Westchester Country Club."

Source:  BRIEF AND NEWSY, New Rochelle Pioneer, Jun. 18, 1898, p. 5, col. 3.  

"LAND AND SEA AUXILIARY.

Land and Sea Auxiliary No. 22, of the Red Cross, of Westchester County, now has 347 members and 165 juniors, not including men, who are associate members.  The women have secured by entertainments and contributions $3,157.45, and sent 2,929 garments, towels and bandages and six large boxes and two barrels of books and literature to the soldiers and sailors.  The gifts include two checks, one for $500 from Adrian Iselin, and one for $100 from Colonel Delancey A. Kane; also $1,500 received at the garden party given by the Westchester, Pelham Manor, New-Rochelle and Larchmont branches.  The money will be used to purchase delicacies for the sick and wounded.

The committees of the New-Rochelle branch will be at Trinity House on Wednesday mornings to receive supplies and gifts."

Source:  LAND AND SEA AUXILIARY, New-York Daily Tribune, Jul. 9, 1898, p. 7, col. 5.  

"BAZAAR AT 'THE ORCHARD.'
-----
Francis Wilson Lends His Home to Aid Red Cross.

Auxiliary No. 22 of the Red Cross Society of New Rochelle met in the Town Hall there yesterday.  About 100 women members from branches in Pelham Manor, West Chester, Larchmont Manor, and Mamaroneck were present.  Mrs. Frank K. Hunter, chairman of the auxiliary, presided.  Mrs. Robert T. Emmett, the treasufer, reported that the total receipts from different sources were $4,444.84, and the expenditures $2,555.89.  Mrs. Robert C. Black, chairman of the Pelham Manor Branch, reported the shipment of 3,014 books and 909 garments. 

The junior branches of the auxiliary intend to give a patriotic bazaar at 'The Orchard,' on Meadow Lane, the home of Francis Wilson, the actor.  Mr. Wilson will furnish the band."

Source:  BAZAAR AT "THE ORCHARD" -- Francis Wilson Lends His Home to Aid Red Cross, The New York Press, Aug. 3, 1898, p. 7, col. 4.

"RED CROSS NOTES. . . . 

The Pelham Manor Branch of Auxiliary No. 22, Red Cross Society has sent during the last two weeks 430 articles of literature contributed by Mrs. Hammett, Mrs. Coleman, Mrs. Robert, Mrs. Black, Mrs. Secor, Miss Secor, Mrs. Gillett, Mrs. Whiting, Mrs. Carson and Mr. Thomas 3174 articles, books, magazines and papers have been sent.

The Work committee have sent 31 shirts, 63 bands, 24 sanitary squares, 16 towels.  The supplies sent were 1 dozen Anker's bouillin capsules, 1 dozen packages ground barley, 16 cans clam broth, 6 lbs. of tea.  These supplies were contributed by the Hillside Club of Mansfield, Conn.

The president, secretary and treasurer are away, but substitutes are in their places and meetings are held regularly.

J. R. CARSON,
Acting Sec'y."

Source:  RED CROSS NOTES, New Rochelle Pioneer, Aug. 20, 1898, p. 4, col. 3.

"MONEY FOR RED CROSS WORK.
-----
The Work of the Auxiliaries Prospers -- Supplies Sent to Hospitals.

The Red Cross Supply Committee met yesterday morning at 552 Broadway.  It was announced that the Ambulance Auxiliary had turned over to President Wardwell $5,000, and to the Long Island City Emergency Hospital $5,000.  Mrs. Cowdin of the Nurse Maintenance Auxiliary reported the collection of $89,000 to date, and that 296 nurses are being maintained in the various hospitals.

Supplies were yesterday sent to the temporary hospital at Pelham Manor, where a number of the Eighth Regiment men are confined; to the Long Island City branch; to the Naval Hospital; to Capt. Spicer of the United States Marines, at Portsmouth, N. H., and to Mrs. R. S. Bowne, at East-hampton, L. I.  Mrs. Bowne has offered to take care of twenty-five men, and supplies were sent to her to be used in making ready for the arrival of the patients."

Source:  MONEY FOR RED CROSS WORK -- The Work of the Auxiliaries Prospers -- Supplies Sent to Hospitals, N. Y. Times, Sep. 8, 1898, p. 12, col. 3.

"BRIEF AND NEWSY. . . 

--Members of Auxiliary No. 22, Red Cross, of West Chester, Pelham, New Rochelle and Larchmont, attended a meeting of the National Red Cross Society, at Sherry's last night."

Source:  BRIEF AND NEWSY, New Rochelle Pioneer, Dec. 10, 1898, p. 5, col. 1.

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Pelham Firemen Turned Their Hoses on Trolley Construction Crew in 1898

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In the late 19th century, rival trolley companies raced to construct lines throughout the New York region.  Rivalries among competing trolley companies led to at least one instance of violence in the Village of North Pelham in 1898 when local firemen had to turn their hoses on a trolley construction gang to halt its work.  The dispute led to a lawsuit in which the Court ruled that two rival trolley companies both had valid franchises to build trolley tracks on Fourth Street (today's Lincoln Avenue) and that the first to lay tracks would perfect its franchise. That decision, of course, set off a race.  I have written before about a portion of this dispute.  See:  Mon., Dec. 07, 2009:  Report of Fight with Trolley Construction Crew in Pelhamville in 1898.

The origins of the incident may be traced to a few years before when North Pelham Trustees granted a trolley franchise to a start up company to build a line through North Pelham on Fourth Street (i.e., Lincoln Avenue) connecting lines in Mount Vernon and New Rochelle through North Pelham.  

The start up failed.  Among its only assets was the franchise granted by North Pelham which it sold to the New York and Connecticut Traction Company.  The New York and Connecticut Traction Company, however, did not construct the tracks.

The Board of Trustees of North Pelham became impatient.  On Saturday, March 5, 1898, the Board met to address the issue.  The Board concluded that the original franchise had been forfeited through interaction.  The Board granted a new franchise to the Union Electric Railway Company which had been active in the successful development of lines in southern Westchester.  This time, however, the Village Board included conditions "that the tracks shall be laid and cars running within six months and that cars shall meet all the trains on the New Haven Railroad at Pelham and all those on the Harlem River Branch at Pelham Manor station."

The "Union Company" as it was called, had not laid the tracks after the passage of six months.  The owner of the original franchise, the New York and Connecticut Traction Company, decided to try to steal a march on the Village and on the Union Company.  

On Saturday, October 1, 1898, a massive group of 150 laborers from Brooklyn descended on North Pelham and collected at the intersection of today's Lincoln Avenue and Fifth Avenue.  Carloads of construction materials appeared as well.  Within minutes, a foreman working on behalf of the New York and Connecticut Traction Company had the workers digging up Fourth Street to lay a foundation on which ties and rails would be laid for new trolley tracks.  

Within a short time, the laborers had laid nearly 150 feet of new trolley tracks when North Pelham Trustee Barker happened upon the scene in his wagon.  He ordered the laborers to stop their work.  The foreman and workers ignored him.  Trustee Barker tracked down a Town Constable and ordered him to arrest the leaders.  The Constable arrested the foreman and three laborers and marched them off to a local lockup.

The remaining laborers never ceased their work.  The dedicated Village Trustee next drove his wagon a section of trench to halt the work.  The workers in the trench scattered to avoid injury.  They hesitated only a moment, however, then swarmed around the Trustee, seized his wagon, and carried it out of the way so they could resume their work.  

Seeking help, Trustee Barker first contacted the Chief of Police in Mount Vernon who politely told him the matter was out of his jurisdiction and no help would be sent.  Next, Trustee Barker had a fire alarm sounded.  Local firemen arrived quickly, together with one truck, one engine, and a hose cart.  At Trustee Barker's request the Pelham firemen attached a hose to a nearby hydrant and turned a violent stream of water on the gang of laborers.  Within moments, the laborers couldn't take it anymore, scrambled out of the work area, and sought shelter in nearby woods.

While the Pelham firemen stood guard over the area with their fire hose ready, Trustee Barker had someone send word to a Union Company official who promptly sent a foreman and 150 Union Company laborers who promptly ripped up the 150 feet of tracks and ties while the firemen stood guard.  By the evening of the same day, the president of the Union Company arrived at the scene in Pelham with two carloads of laborers to reinforce the 150 Union Company men already there.  

As soon as material arrived, the Union Company quickly began building its own set of tracks on Fourth Street.  Its men worked quickly and work progressed nicely until nightfall when a temporary restraining order obtained on behalf of the New York and Connecticut Traction Company was served on them.  Work stopped immediately.  The matter was now the subject of a lawsuit.

On Tuesday, January 31, 1899, a State court judge decided the matter.  The judge ruled that both franchises had been properly granted and that "the company which first put its track down would be the one to make good its right to the street."  The race began.

The Union Company was incredibly fast.  Less than twelve hours after the decision was released, it had a gang of laborers and two carloads of material on the scene at Fourth Street and Fifth Avenue in Pelham.  The laborers worked all night and, by the next morning (February 1, 1899), the trolley tracks were "practically completed."

The Union Company won the race.  Trolley tracks finally connected Mount Vernon and New Rochelle along the roadway known today as Lincoln Avenue.

Detail of Map Published in 1924 With Dashed Lines Showing 

Trolley Lines. Note the Trolley Line that Crosses North Pelham

from Mount Vernon to New Rochelle on Fourth Street (Lincoln Ave.)

Source: Fairchild, John F., "STREET MAP OF THE CITY OF MOUNT

VERNON AND THE TOWN OF PELHAM WESTCHESTER CO.,

N.Y." (1924) (From the Digital Collections of the Westchester County

Archive). NOTE: Click on Image to Enlarge.

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Below is the text of a number of news articles regarding the subject of today's Historic Pelham article.  Each is followed by a citation and link to its source.

"A FRANCHISE GRANTED IN PELHAM.

The Board of Trustees of the Village of Pelham held a meeting last Saturday evening at the residence of Mr. Ralph K. Hubbard on Pelham Heights.  The most important business transacted was the granting of a franchise to the Union Electric Railway Company to operate an electric road from the corner of Wolf's Lane and Third street, (where its route at present turns to go to North Pelham) down Wolf's Lane to the Boston Post Road and up the Boston Post Road as far as Pelhamdale avenue.  For the balance of the Post Road the Union Company has a franchise from the Pelham Manor authorities.

The conditions of the franchise are that the tracks shall be laid and cars running within six months and that cars shall meet all the trains on the New Haven Railroad at Pelham and all those on the Harlem River Branch at Pelham Manor station.

Messrs. I. C. Hill and Alexander Kennedy, the Citizens' Committee on trolley extensions appointed by the North Pelham trustees, attended the meeting.  Mr. John Maher, president of the Union Road, was also president of the Union Road, was also present and stated that he thought if it were found feasible to do so, the line of the company would be extended to the northern boundary of North Pelham in the near future."

Source:  A FRANCHISE GRANTED IN PELHAM, The Chronicle [Mount Vernon, NY], Mar. 11, 1898, p. 3, col. 3.  

"TURNED HOSE ON ITALIANS.
------
FIREMEN CALLED ON TO SETTLE A TROLLEY LINE WAR.
-----
A Gang of Laborers Driven from Trenches by the Fire Department of New Pelham -- Outcome of Fight Between Rival Traction Companies for a Westchester Franchise.

NEW ROCHELLE, N. Y., Oct. 1. -- The rivalry between the Union Trolley Company and the New York and Connecticut Traction Company resulted in a fight this afternoon in the village of North Pelham, necessitating the calling out of the Fire Department.

The trouble between the two companies dates back seven years, when the traction company received a franchise from the trustees of North Pelham to construct a line connecting Mount Vernon with New Rochelle.  The trustees granted the franchise on the condition that the line should be in operation inside of a year.  Last month the trustees granted a franchise to the Union Company, known as the Huckleberry road, over the same route, on the ground that the Traction Company had violated its franchise.

The Union Company was to have begun work as soon as it had completed its system in New Rochelle.  To-day, however, the Traction Company decided to steal a march on its rival.

Early this afternoon 150 Italians from Brooklyn, under Foreman Mack, arrived at North Pelham and started to tear up the road at Fourth street and Fifth avenue.  They had succeeded in laying about 150 feet of track when Trustee Barker drove up and ordered them to stop.  The laborers refused to obey the order and Barker ordered Constable Marks to arrest some of the men.  Marks picked out Foreman Mack and three of his laborers and took them to the village lock-up.  The other laborers kept on digging the trenches.  Trustee Barker drove his wagon in the trench, scattering the Italians.

After a moment's hesitation, they swarmed around Barker, and, seizing the wagon, carried it over to the other side of the road.  At this juncture someone turned in the fire alarm, which brought to the scene one truck, a hose cart, and an engine.  The firemen turned the hose on the gang of laborers, who finally sought shelter in the woods.

The stream was so powerful that Fireman Stanman, who was holding the nozzle, was knocked down and badly bruised.  The Pelham authorities asked Mount Vernon police for help, but Chief Foley refused, as it was not in his jurisdiction.

Foreman Hannon of the Union Company heard of the disturbance and hurried with the 150 men he had at work there to Pelham.  His men ripped up the ties while the Fire Department stood guard with the hose.  President Maher of the Union Company arrived this evening, and brought up two carloads of Italians from West Farms to reinforce his men.  At nightfall the Union Company was in full possession of the road."

Source:  TURNED HOSE ON ITALIANS -- FIREMEN CALLED ON TO SETTLE A TROLLEY LINE WAR, The Sun [NY, NY], Oct. 2, 1898, Vol. LXVI, No. 32, p. 4, col. 5.  

"TROLLEY FIGHT IN PELHAM.
-----
A Gang of Men Driven Off by Turning Hose on Them.
-----

Saturday afternoon last a trolley battle was fought in the village of Pelham, between the gangs of the Connecticut Traction Company and the village authorities and the Union Railroad forces.

The Traction Company's gang, which started in during the early afternoon to lay rails on Fourth street, was finally driven off by the local fire department, which turned two streams of water from nearby hydrants on the invading army of Italians.

The trouble dates back to the last meeting of the Pelham Village Trustees.  At that time an old trolley franchise, which was granted seven years ago, and later bought up by the Connecticut Traction people, was revoked, and a new franchise granted over those streets through to New Rochelle to the Union Railway.

The Connecticut Traction Company, to block the latest move of their rivals, on Saturday afternoon sent a gang of two hundred and fifty Italians to Pelham, who appeared suddenly on Fourth street.  Soon after several loads of rails and ties were carted on the road and in an hour many rods of trolley line had been laid.  Everything went along smoothly, until Trustee Barker happened to drive along.  When he saw what was up, he jumped from his wagon and ordered the foreman and his gang to quit work, but they refused.

By this time President Lynch, of the village and several other village trustees had arrived on the scene, but the gang still kept on laying tracks.

Mr. Lynch telephoned Chief Foley, of Mount Vernon, and asked him to send a detachment of police to Pelham.

Chief Foley said the trouble was out of the jurisdiction of the Mount Vernon police, and he could do nothing.

Then some one made a suggestion that the Pelham fire department be called out to turn two streams of water on the invaders.  This suggestion was acted on, and a few minutes later the fire bells were ringing madly.  Soon after the hose cart and ladder truck appeared on the scene.  The firemen coupled their hose to the hydrants and, under the direction of President Lynch, turned two streams of cold water on the gang of trolley layers.

In the meantime word was sent Foreman Hannon, who had a gang of men numbering two hundred and fifty at work in Pelham Manor, on the Union Company's lines.

As soon as he heard that the rival company were at work, he loaded his men into wagons, and ordering several loads of rails and ties to follow him started with his gang for Fourth street, Pelham.  When the Union gang arrived they found the Traction crowd had been driven to the woods by the streams of water, which had been turned on them.

Foreman Hannon immediately directed his men to tear up the tracks just laid by the Traction people, and they went at it with such a will, that in a few hours every rail and tie which had been laid was torn up.  They then started to replace them with the Union Company's stock, which had been brought up on their trucks.  

The Union gang worked until nearly nightfall, when an injunction, granted by Supreme Court Justice Dickey, was served on them and work stopped.

There the matter will rest until the motion to make the injunction permanent is argued."

Source:  TROLLEY FIGHT IN PELHAM -- A Gang of Men Driven Off by Turning Hose on Them, The New Rochelle Pioneer, Oct. 8, 1898, Vol. XXIV, No. 19, p. 1, col. 4.  

"UNION COMPANY'S QUICK WORK.
-----
Acted Promptly on Court Decision and Laid Tracks Ahead of Its Rival.

MOUNT VERNON, N. Y., Feb. 1. -- Supreme Court Justice Gaynor on Tuesday afternoon decided a disputed trolley franchise question in such a way that neither of the contestants won.  Within twelve hours one of them had taken advantage of the decision and shut out its rival.  The Union Company which operates roads in the Bronx and in Westchester County, claimed a franchise through Fourth Street in North Pelham by virtue of a franchise granted to it by the Trustees.  The New York, Westchester and Connecticut Traction Company claimed the right to run through the same street by virtue of a franchise previously granted to another company which has gone out of existence, and which sold its only asset, the franchise, to the traction company.

The latter company in October last attempted to lay rails through Fourth Street.  This was after the Union Company had applied to the North Pelham Trustees for a franchise.  The Trustees held that the old franchise had lapsed because the original company had not made any attempt to take advantage of it, nor had its successor within a reasonable time.  The Union Company obtained an injunction restraining the Traction Company from constructing its road through Fourth Street, but before the injunction could have been served the road would have been built but for prompt action on the part of the Trustees.  They called out the Fire Department, and when the gang of Italians at work on the street refused to stop work the firemen drove them off with streams of water from the hose.

Since then the disputed franchises had been in the courts.  Justice Gaynor on Tuesday held that both franchises had been properly granted and that the company which first put its tracks down would be the one to make good its right to the street.  The Union Company acted promptly in following up this decision.  Immediately after it was given a construction gang was organized and sent to the disputed street, and two carloads of material followed within a short time.  By morning the road was practically completed, and to-night it is almost ready for use  So far as is known, the Westchester and Connecticut people did not act upon the decision."

Source:  UNION COMPANY'S QUICK WORK -- Acted Promptly on Court Decision and Laid Tracks Ahead of Its Rival, N.Y. Times, Feb. 2, 1899, p. 5, col. 5.  

"RIVAL LAID TROLLEY ROAD IN ONE NIGHT
-----

MOUNT VERNON, N. Y., Wednesday. -- Supreme Court Justice Gaynor on Tuesday afternoon decided a disputed trolley franchise question in such a way that it lay with the enterprise of either of the contestants to win.  By this morning one of them had taken advantage of the decision and shut out its rival by building a road.

The Union Company claimed a franchise through Fourth street in North Pelham, by virtue of a franchise granted to it by the trustees.  The New York, Westchester and Connecticut Traction Company claimed the right to run through the same street by virtue of a franchise purchased from another company, which has gone out of existence.  The Westchester and Connecticut, on October last, attempted to lay rails through Fourth street.  The trustees held that the old franchise had lapsed.  The Union Company obtained an injunction, but before it could have been served the road would have been built, but for prompt action on the part of the trustees.  They called out the Fire Department, and when the laborers refused to stop work the firemen drove them off with streams of water.

Justice Gaynor held that both franchises had been properly granted and that the company which first put its track down would be the one to make good its right to the street.  The Union Company immediately sent a construction gang and two carloads of material to the disputed street, and by morning the road was practically completed."

Source:  RIVAL LAID TROLLEY ROAD IN ONE NIGHT, New York Herald, Feb. 2, 1899, p. 14, col. 2.  

"PELHAM'S NEWS AND NOTES
-----
Happenings of Special Interest to Her People. . . . 

The amount which the Westchester Electric Railway Company will have to pay the Village of North Pelham as its share of the cost of macadamizing Fifth avenue and Fourth street, is $3,021.17. . . ."

Source:  PELHAM'S NEWS AND NOTES -- Happenings of Special Interest to Her People, Mount Vernon Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], Aug. 17, 1899, Vol. XXX, No. 2,266, p. 1, col. 3.

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More on the History of the First Pelham Country Club, Renamed to Become Today's Wykagyl Country Club

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During a meeting held on May 12, 1898, Pelham residents organized what we refer to today as the "First Pelham Country Club."  The club is not related either to today's Pelham Country Club or to the club that once stood along Shore Road known simply as "the Country Club."  Rather, as the open countryside around today's Fowler Avenue began to be developed, the Club was forced to move to a new property along North Avenue in New Rochelle and changed its name to "The Wykagyl Country Club."

Immediately after its organization, the First Pelham Country Club constructed four holes of golf.  Within a short time the club added five additional holes for a nine-hole golf course.  The club built its links on leased land in the area of today's Fowler Avenue.  The course extended from Colonial Avenue to Boston Post Road.  The club used a residence that stood on the land near Colonial Avenue as a clubhouse.  By 1904, the club secured land to open a larger course in New Rochelle.  The club became today's Wykagyl Country Club.

A map published in 1899 shows the golf course of the First Pelham Country Club.  A detail from that map showing the course appears below.  

PELHAM COUNTRY CLUB GOLF LINKS" From Map Published in 1899.
The Road on the Left is Boston Post Road. The Small Road on the Right
is Colonial Avenue. Source: Fairchild, John F., "Town of Pelham Plate 22"
in Atlas of the City of Mount Vernon and the Town of Pelham, Plate 22
(Mount Vernon, NY: John F. Fairchild, 1899).
NOTE: Click on Image to Enlarge.

Extensive research recently has shed additional light on the history of the First Pelham Country Club.  The club leased about fifty two acres of land between today's Colonial Avenue and Boston Post Road from its owner, Benjamin F. Corlies.  Within a matter of weeks after the May 12, 1898 organizational meeting, construction of the first few holes of a planned nine-hole course began.  

The club hoped to complete six holes and hold a grand opening of the course on July 4, 1898.  Though construction progressed nicely, only four holes were complete by July 4.  That did not dissuade members of the Club.  They opened the four holes for play on July 4 that year.

At its outset, the club limited membership to one hundred.  The club marketed memberships by portraying the new course as particularly "sporty" and one of the most accessible such courses in the New York City region with train and trolley transportation nearly to its doorstep.

On Saturday, July 2, 1898, the club filed its certificate of incorporation with the Office of the County Clerk of the County of Westchester.  The stated purposes of the club were "to encourage golfing, to promote physical culture among it members and for social purposes."

Members of the club did not elect their first officers until late July, 1898.  Its first officers were:  

President - Howard Scribner
Vice President - Frederick Wilson
Secretary - George K. Perry
Treasurer - John Butler
Golf Captain - Harlan Victor Gause

The members of its first Board of Governors included all of the officers listed immediately above as well as the following members:  Lincoln Pierce, John K. Muir, William H. Webster, Ralph K. Hubbard, Jabish Holmes, Jr., William B. Randall, and C. W. Colton.  

Almost immediately after opening the first four holes of the new golf course, members of the club began planning to construct a new clubhouse rather than continuing to rely on the tiny little residence they had converted for the purpose that stood near the first tee of the course.  Also within days after opening the first four holes, the number of members of the club had "almost reached" its one hundred member limit.  

By September 20, 1898, a local newspaper reported that the "full nine holes of the Pelham Country Club Golf links will be completed this week."  The newspaper further reported that one of the new features of the course was a lake hazard.  The lake stood on the sixth hole of the course (see map detail above).

The little nine-hole golf course was an immediate success.  Once the 1898 golf season drew to a close, members of the club immediately began planning to improve the golf course and to hold a second season opening of the club the following May. 

In March, 1899, members of the club held their annual election and elected their second set of officers.  Those officers were:  

President - Howard Scribner
Secretary - George K. Perry
Treasurer - John Butler
Golf Captain - William K. Gillett

The members of the second Board of Governors included all of the officers listed immediately above as well as:  Harlan Victor Gause, Kenneth J. Muir, Frederick Wilson, Charles W. Colton, William B. Randall, Ralph K. Hubbard, F. S. Rollins, George K. Perry and Jabish Holmes, Jr.  Although it may simply have been a news reporting error, there does not appear to have been a Vice President during the club's second year.  

By 1902, the First Pelham Country Club was, in effect, bulging at its seams.  The Board of Governors authorized, and work began on, a project to expand and lengthen the nine holes that comprised the course.  

That year the First Pelham Country Club announced a host of grand plans.  It announced that negotiations were "pending" for the lease of additional property to serve as a baseball diamond on which the Club's baseball team could play home games rather than constantly traveling to play other teams.  It further announced that plans to erect an indoor sports building to include squash courts, ping pong, shuffleboard, and other such sports were "under consideration."  A new tennis court was built for club members.  

The club offered "club dinners" to its members and their guests that year beginning on Friday, May 30, 1902 (Decoration Day).  Thereafter such dinners were offered on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays during the season.  

By 1902, the club still had not built a new clubhouse.  Indeed, before the 1902 golf season began, efforts were still underway to secure a lot and build a new clubhouse "in the fall."  

By 1904, the days of the First Pelham Country Club were numbered due to the press of local residential development.  The club never owned its land in Pelham.  It leased the land from Benjamin F. Corlies, a real estate speculator who had been heavily involved in the development of Pelham Heights.  By 1904, Corlies was pushing to develop the land he had leased to the club.  

In September, 1904, residential development in the area of the club began in earnest.  On September 28, 1904, a local newspaper reported that "Excavation has been made for a residence on Fowler avenue on the first green of the Pelham Country Club's golf links.  This spoils the course to such an extent it may be necessary to change the location of the first green."

With the handwriting on the wall, the First Pelham Country Club chose not to change the location of the first green but, instead, to change the location of the club.  Barely three months later, in December, 1904, the club announced that it had secured a lease of extensive property in New Rochelle.  The 186-acre tract bordered on North Street and had been used as a pasture for "the greater part" of the previous thirty years.  The club announced that it already had in hand plans for a new eighteen hole golf course on the site with a playing distance of 6,200 yards.  It further announced plans to open the first nine holes of the course on May 1, 1905 and the remaining nine holes by June 1.  The club stated that it would build a new clubhouse, tennis courts, and an indoor sports center with squash courts, among other indoor sports facilities.  


With the move of the club out of Pelham, a name change seemed in order.  During the Spring of 1905, the club pursued judicial proceedings and obtained an order from the Special Term of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, Westchester County, authorizing the club to change its name from the "Pelham Country Club" to "The Wykagyl Country Club."  Notices announcing the name change appeared in local newspapers that spring.  

Pelham was, for a short time, without a country club. 

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Below is the text of a number of news articles and materials that relate to the history of the First Pelham Country Club.  Each is followed by a citation and link to its source.

"NEWS OF THE GOLFERS.
-----
Pelham Country Club's New Links to Be Ready July 4. . . . 

The recently organized Golf Club of the Pelham Country Club, Pelham, N.Y., has a nine hole course in process of construction.  It announces the opening day for the Fourth of July.  By that day it is expected that six holes will be in good condition and the full nine holes very soon thereafter.  The links are probably the most accessible of any about New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad from Forty-second street to Pelham, from which station it is but a short walk to the grounds on the Boston road, or by train from One Hundred and Twenty-ninth street and Third avenue to Pelham Manor, thence by the new trolley line, which will shortly be running past the grounds on the Boston Post road.  The new extensions of the trolley system between Mount Vernon and New Rochelle will make the links very convenient for residents in those places.

An expert has described the links as 'sporty.'

The membership is limited to 100, and includes the principal citizens of Pelham, Pelham Manor, and New Rochelle.  The secretary is G. K. Perry, Pelham, N.Y. . . ."

Source:  NEWS OF THE GOLFERS -- Pelham Country Club's New Links to Be Ready July 4, The Brooklyn Daily Eagle, Jun. 27, 1898, p. 5, col. 6.  

"PELHAM'S NEW GOLF CLUB.
-----
Six-Hole Course Will Be Ready for the Opening, July 4.

The new golf club recently organized by members of the Pelham Country Club, Pelham, N.Y., has a nine-hole course in process of construction.  It announces July 4 as the opening day.  By that time it is expected that six holes will be in good playing condition, and the full nine holes soon thereafter.

The links probably are the most accessible of any about New York.  They can be reached by train on the New York, New Haven and Hudson River Railroad from the Grand Central Depot, Forty-second street, to Pelham, from which station it is but a short walk to the grounds on the old Boston road, or by train from the 129th street and Third avenue to Pelham Manor, thence by the new trolley line which shortly will be running past the grounds on the Boston post road.  The new extensions of the trolley system between Mount Vernon and New Rochelle will make the links convenient for residents in those places.

An expert has described the links as 'sporty.'  The membership is limited to 100, and includes the principal citizens of Pelham, Pelham Manor and New Rochelle.  The secretary, G. K. Perry, Pelham, N.Y., will be pleased to answer all inquiries."

Source:  PELHAM'S NEW GOLF CLUB -- Six-Hole Course Will Be Ready for the Opening, July 4, The New York Press, Jun. 28, 1898, Section BC, p. 6, col. 7.

"--The Pelham Country Club plans to open its new course on July 4.  By that day it is expected that six holes will be in full playable condition, and the full nine holes shortly afterward.  The links may be reached from Pelham Manor, by the new trolley line, which will soon run past the grounds on the Boston Post Road.  The new extensions of the trolley system between Mt. Vernon and New Rochelle will make the links convenient for residents in those places.  The membership is limited to one hundred.  G. K. Perry, the secretary, Pelham, N. Y., will be pleased to answer any inquiries."

Source:  [Untitled], New Rochelle Pioneer, Jul. 2, 1898, p. 5, col. 2.  

"WHITE PLAINS.

The certificate of incorporation of the Pelham Country Club was filed in the County Clerk's office yesterday morning.  The association is formed to encourage golfing, to promote physical culture among it members and for social purposes.  The principal office is to be in the town of Pelham, and the directors are Howard Scribner, John Butler, Frederick Wilson, Ralph K. Hubbard, Lincoln Pierce, George K. Perry, W. H. Webster, H. V. Gause and K. J. Muir, all of Pelham, N. Y. . . ."

Source:  WHITE PLAINS, New-York Daily Tribune, Jul. 3, 1898, p. 13, col. 3.  

"PELHAM CLUB TO OPEN TO-DAY.

The Pelham Country Club, which includes among its members many of the prominent residents of Pelham, Pelham Manor and New-Rochelle, will open its links to-day with an attractive series of matches.  The club has leased a large tract of land near the old Boston Post Road, and is planning an active season."

Source:  PELHAM CLUB TO OPEN TO-DAY, New-York Daily Tribune, Jul. 9, 1898, p. 5, col. 6.  

"NOTES FROM THE GOLF LINKS. . . . 

The Pelham Country Club held a successful opening on the Fourth of July on the grounds leased from Benjamin F. Corlies, of Pelham Manor.  The entire golf course, of nine holes, has been laid out on an area of fifty-two acres of exceptionally promising country, extending from the old Boston Post Road on the north to the Boston Turnpike on the south and west of Sycamore Park.  Four holes are now in playing condition, and work on the remaining five is being pushed with so much vigor that in three or four weeks play over all may be commenced.  The first limit of membership has been almost reached, although the club is scarcely eight weeks old.  The course is easily accessible from the city.  The secretary is G. K. Perry, of Pelham, N. Y."

Source:  NOTES FROM THE GOLF LINKS, N.Y. Herald, Jul. 10, 1898, p. 11, col. 6.  

"PELHAM COUNTRY CLUB.
-----
Its Nine-Hole Golf Course Soon Will Be Ready for Play.

The Pelham Country Club had a successful opening on July 4 on the grounds recently leased.  The entire golf course, of nine holes, has been laid out on an area of fifty-two acres of exceptionally promising country extending from the old Boston Post road on the north, to the Boston turnpike on the south and west of Sycamore Park.  Four holes are now in playing condition, and work on the remaining five is being pushed with so much vigor that in three or four weeks play over all may be begun.

The first limit of membership has been almost reached, although the club is scarcely eight weeks old.  The golf course is the most accessible about the city.  The secretary is G. K. Percy, Pelham, N.Y."

Source:  PELHAM COUNTRY CLUB -- Its Nine-Hole Golf Course Soon Will Be Ready for Play, The New York Press, Jul. 12, 1898, Section BC, p. 5, col. 3.  

"NEW ROCHELLE. . . . 

The Pelham Country Club this week elected the following officers:  President, Howard Scribner; vice president, Frederick Wilson; secretary, George K. Perry; treasurer, John Butler; captain, H. V. Gause.  The Board of Governors comprises these officers, together with Lincoln Pierce, John K. Muir, William H. Webster, Ralph K. Hubbard, Jabish Holmes, Jr., W. B. Randall and C. W. Colton.  The members are considering a proposition to erect a clubhouse close to the links."

Source:  NEW ROCHELLE, The New York Press, Jul. 24, 1898, p. 21, col. 3.  

"NORTH PELHAM NEWS. . . . 

PELHAM'S GOLF CLUB

The full nine holes of the Pelham Country Club Golf links will be completed this week.  This course is one of the most sporty courses near New York.  The Union Railway Company now has its line on the South front of the course and with the proposed extension on the old Boston Post Road will make the course of most convenient access to the whole section.  

A lake is one of the features of the new links.

The club's membership is increasing rapidly and already plans for a fine club house are being discussed. . . ."

Source:  NORTH PELHAM NEWS, Mount Vernon Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], Sep. 20, 1898, Vol. XXVI, No. 1,976, p. 1, col. 5.  

"PELHAM COUNTRY CLUB.
------

The second annual election of the Pelham Country Club was recently held and the following Board of Governor was elected:  -- Howard Scribner, John Butler, Harlan Victor Gause, Kenneth J. Muir, Frederick Wilson, Charles W. Colton, William B. Randall, Ralph K. Hubbard, F. S. Rollins, William K. Gillett, George K. Perry and Jabish Holmes, Jr.  Mr. Scribner, Mr. Butler and Mr. Perry were re-elected president, treasurer and secretary, respectively, and Mr. William K. Gillett, captain.  

The Greens Committee have arranged to improve the golf links and active work will be immediately commenced.  They have secured the best talent obtainable, and it is expected that the picturesque  links will become even more attractive than they were last season.  The Pelham Country Club has become very well know of late and is attracting considerable attention from all lovers of the golfing sport."

Source:  PELHAM COUNTRY CLUB, N.Y. Herald, Mar. 18 1899, p. 13, col. 4.  

"NOTES FROM THE GOLF LINKS. . . .

The Pelham Country Club, which laid out a small golf course last year is making arrangements to improve the links this season, and it will probably be opened in May with better facilities for playing.  The new officers, recently elected, are:  President -- Howard Scribner; Treasurer -- John Butler; Secretary -- George K. Perry; Directors -- Harlan Victor Gause, Kenneth J. Muir, Frederick Wilson, Charles W. Colton, William B. Randall, Ralph K. Hubbard, F. S. Rollins, William K. Gillett, and Jabish Thomas, Jr.  Gillett has been chosen Captain of the club for the coming year. . . ."

Source:  NOTES FROM THE GOLF LINKS, N.Y. Times, Mar. 20, 1899, p. 8 col. 3.

"PELHAM COUNTRY CLUB. 
-----

The management begs to announce that improvements in the links are now under way, as the result of which the course will be widened and lengthened, giving better turf and greater playing distance.

The links is in better condition today than it has ever been before at this time of year and we anticipate putting and fair greens of exceptional quality during the season.

The schedule of handicap and scratch events is being made up and will include five-men matches with prominent local clubs.

Negotiations are pending for the lease of additional property, to be converted into a base ball field, which we hope may be the scene of many victories for the Country Club nine.  

The erection of a 'squash-court' building, containing accommodations as well for 'ping-pong,' shuffleboard and other indoor sports, is under consideration and will be built if sufficient interest is shown.

A club dinner will be served to members and their guests at the Club house on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, commencing Friday, May 30 (Decoration Day).

We hope to receive the cordial and hearty support of every member in our efforts to make the Club agreeable and attractive.

A new tennis court has been added to the outfit and a lot secured upon which a new club house will  be erected in the fall.

E. M. Fowler, chairman house committee; A. K. Alexander, chairman greens committee."

Source:  PELHAM COUNTRY CLUB, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], Apr. 5, 1902, p. 6, col. 2.  

"PELHAM NOTES. . . .

Excavation has been made for a residence on Fowler avenue on the first green of the Pelham Country Club's golf links.  This spoils the course to such an extent it may be necessary to change the location of the first green. . . ."

Source:  PELHAM NOTES, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], Sep. 28, 1904, p. 4, cols. 4-5.  

"NEW LINKS FOR PELHAM CLUB.
-----
Extensive Property Secured in New Rochelle -- Plans for Tennis and Squash.

An eighteen-hole golf course, with a playing distance of 6,200 yards, will be available for the members of the Pelham Country Club of Pelham Manor early next year.  The club which was organized several years ago, has had only a nine-hole course at Pelham manor.  The difficulties of enlarging the course and the steady growth of the club during the past two years has led the committee to look around for new quarters, and a few days ago a tract of 186 acres was leased in New Rochelle.  The property borders on North Street, and having been used as a pasture during the greater part of the last thirty years, its facilities for an excellent golf course are apparent.

Plans for the new course have been drawn and work will begin as early next season as possible.  It is the intention of the officers to have nine holes ready for use by May 1 and the entire eighteen holes are expected to be thrown open by June 1.  In addition to the enlarged golf course, the club proposes to add other attractions to its list of amusements.  A number of tennis courts will be laid out near the new clubhouse, and plans are being made to build a house for squash courts.

T. L. Jaques is Captain of the Pelham Country Club's golf team, and, with the additional opportunities for playing next year, he hopes to arrange a number of team matches with neighboring clubs and to hold several tournaments."

Source:  NEW LINKS FOR PELHAM CLUB -- Extensive Property Secured in New Rochelle -- Plans for Tennis and Squash, N.Y. Times, Dec. 19, 1904, p. 10, col. 3.  

"PELHAM'S NEW LINKS.
-----

The Pelham Country Club has closed a three years' lease of the Livingston Disbrow farm of 186 acres adjoining the Tom Paine farm on North street, New Rochelle, and will transform the property into one of the largest golf links in the vicinity of New York.  The new course will cover a distance of 6,700 yards, which is about the size of the links at Deal Beach.  L. E. Van Etten, who laid out the Deal Beach links and also the Pelham Bay Park and Knollwood Country Club courses, will have charge of the construction of the new links.  The property includes two houses, the large residence of Mr. Disbrow, which will be remodelled [sic] and used for the main club house, and the other, a smaller building, will be used as a dormitory and fitted up with lockers and shower baths.  About $25,000 is to be spent in remodelling [sic] and refitting the buildings.  

The Pelham Country Club has been forced to move because the links at Pelham Manor will soon be cut up into building lots.  It is probable that the Siwanoy Tennis Club, of New Rochelle, will be merged into the new club and that members of the Larchmont Club will also join, as the Larchmont links are being rapidly encroached on for building purposes."

Source:  PELHAM'S NEW LINKS, N.Y. Herald, Jan. 2, 1905, p. 10, col. 2.  

"AT A SPECIAL TERM OF THE Supreme Court of the State of New York, held in and for the County of Westchester, at the Court House in the Town of White Plains on the 10th day of May, 1905. -- Present, Hon. Martin J. Keogh, Justice.  In the matter of the application of Pelham Country Club for authority to change its name to 'The Wykagyl Country Club.'  Upon reading and filing the petition of the Pelham Country Club, a domestic corporation, duly verified by Morton J. Condon, its president, wherein said petitioner prays for an order authorizing it to assume another corporate name, to wit:  the name of 'The Wykagyl Country Club,' and upon filing the certificate of the Secretary of State annexed thereto, certifying that the name which such corporation proposes to assume is not the name of any other domestic corporation, or a name which he deems so nearly resembling it as to be calculated to deceive, and upon filing due proof by affidavits showing that notice of the presentation has been published for six weeks in the Albany 'Evening Journal,' a newspaper published at Albany in the State of New York, and in the 'New Rochelle Pioneer,' a newspaper of the County of Westchester, in which County such corporation has its principal corporate property, and the Court being satisfied by said petition and the affidavits and certificates presented therewith, that the petition is true and that there is no reasonable objection to the change of name proposed, and that the petition has been duly authorized, and that notice of the presentation of the petition, as required by law, has been made; now, on motion of Robert Davidson, Attorney for the said petitioner, no one opposing, it is ordered that said petition be and the same hereby is granted and that the petitioner herein, the Pelham Country Club, be and it hereby is authorized to assume another corporate name, to wit, the name 'The Wykagyl Country Club' on and after the 15th day of June, 1905, and it is further ordered and directed that this order be entered and the papers on which it is granted be filed within ten days from the date hereof in the office of the Clerk of the County of Westchester, the County in which the certificate of incorporation of said corporation is filed and that a certified copy of this order within ten days after the entry thereof, be filed in the office of the Secretary of State, and further that a copy of this order be published once a week for four successive weeks in the 'New Rochelle Pioneer,' a newspaper in the County of Westchester, beginning within ten days after the entry hereof.

MARTIN J. KEOGH, J. S. C."

Source:  [Untitled Legal Notice], New Rochelle Pioneer, Jun. 3, 1905, Vol. 47, No. 10, p. 3, col. 4.

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I have written before about the First Pelham Country Club that became the Wykagyl Country Club.  See, e.g.:

Tue., Nov. 29, 2016:  1902 Report on Activities of The First Pelham Country Club on Fowler Avenue.

Mon., Jan. 11, 2010:  The First Pelham Country Club's Plans for a July 4, 1898 Opening of its New Nine-Hole Golf Course Accessible by a New Trolley Line. 

Thu., Nov. 26, 2009:  The First "Pelham Country Club" Established in 1898 Built a Nine-Hole Golf Course in Pelham in 1898.  

Bell, Blake, The Early Days of Golf in Pelham, The Pelham Weekly, Vol. XIII, No. 36, Sep. 10, 2004, p. 12, col. 2.

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