1856 Notice Regarding Sale of James Hay's Lands in Pelham and Eastchester

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There is a lovely historic home located at 45 Iden Avenue in the Village of Pelham Manor.  It is known as "Pelhamdale."  Portions of the home including the rear basement with entrance and massive fireplace are believed to pre-date the Revolutionary War.  The home once was owned by American Patriot David Jones Pell.  The structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The home has been significantly altered since the eighteenth century.

The home, known also as the Old Pell Place and the Old Pell Home is located today on a triangular tract bounded by Carol Place, Iden Avenue, and the Hutchinson River Parkway.  The plot on which the home sits was part of a large 18th and 19th century farm that once was bounded by today's Colonial Avenue (the Old Boston Post Road), the Lane that became known as Wolf's Lane, today's Boston Post Road, and the Hutchinson River.  

Col. Philip Pell III (1753-1811) owned an adjacent farm, the farmhouse of which once stood at the intersection of today's Cliff and Colonial Avenues.  Col. Pell was a son of Philip Pell II who, in turn, was son of Philip Pell who was a son of Thomas Pell (so-called Third Lord of the Manor of Pellham).  The original farm cottage that forms a portion of today's "Pelhamdale" at 45 Iden Avenue was built by Philip Pell II around 1750-60.

Philip Pell II was the father of Col. Philip Pell III (often referenced, oddly, as Philip Pell, Jr.) and David Jones Pell.  Both the sons were American Patriots.  After the death of the elder Pell, his son David Jones Pell became owner of "Pelhamdale."  David Jones Pell's brother, Philip Pell III, built his adjacent farm and farmhouse.  That farm included the land on which today's Pelham Memorial High School stands.  A memorial marker and date stone of the home built by Col. Philip Pell III stand next to the front entrance of the high school.

After the death of David Jones Pell in 1823, Pell's widow sold the farm to James Hay who owned it until his own death in the 1850s.  Hay extensively expanded and renovated the home, giving it an appearance similar to the home's appearance today.  Apparently during the expansion of the home, James Hay embedded in the north wall of the home a large block of sandstone on which is carved in relief the Hay family coat-of-arms.

James Hay assembled extensive plots of land in the Towns of Pelham and Eastchester.  He died intestate (without a will) before disposing of those properties.  After his death, Hay's wife was appointed an Administratrix of his estate (together with a group of Administrators).  Mrs. Hay and the Administrators worked for years to try to sell all of the land Hay owned, holding multiple estate auctions between 1856 and at least 1860.

Today's Historic Pelham article transcribes notice of one such public auction published on August 1, 1856.  The notice indicated that on September 3, 1856, the estate would attempt to auction six parcels of land in Pelham and Eastchester including much of the Pelhamdale farm.  The notice, transcribed below, provides interesting insight into the holdings of James Hay, a wealthy 19th century Pelhamite. 

View of Pelhamdale from Iden Avenue on September 3, 2014.

Source: "Pelhamdale" in Wikipedia -- The Free Encyclopedia (visited

May 7, 2016). NOTE: Click on Image to Enlarge.

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"WESTCHESTER COUNTY SURROGATE COURT. -- In the matter of the application of the Administrators, &c., of JAMES HAY, deceased, for authority to sell the real estate of intestate, &c.

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to an order of the Surrogate of Westchester County, made in the above matter on the 10th day of September, 1855, that the undersigned, the Administratrix and Administrators of James Hay, late of the town of Pelham, said in county, deceased, intestate, will sell at public vendue, on the premises, in the towns of Pelham and East Chester, is said County of Westchester, on the third day of September next, at 12 o'clock at noon of that day, the following pieces or parcels of land, situate in the said county of Westchester:

PARCEL 1 -- All that certain piece or parcel of land situate in the town of East Chester, country of Westchester, and State of New York, bounded as follows:  Beginning at a corner of a stone wall now or late of Stephen Jones, thence running northerly with the line of the land of said Jones to the centre of a ditch adjoining the salt meadow now of James Hay, formerly of one Stephen S. Pell; thence easterly with said ditch to East Chester Creek, (so called); thence with said creek to the salt meadow land now (or late) of Isaac Sherwood; thence westerly with said meadow land of said Sherwood to the place of beginning -- containing two acres, be the same more or less -- being one of the pieces or parcels of land which were conveyed by John W. Fowt, of East Chester, and Susan C. his wife, to Alfred H. Duncombe, by deed dated the 20th day of March, 1846, recorded in Westchester County Clerk's Office, in Liber 115 of Deeds, page 214, &c.

PARCEL 2 -- All that certain piece or parcel of salt meadow land situate lying and being in the town of East Chester, in said county of Westchester, bounded northerly by salt meadow land late of Gloriansen Franklin (now of Alfred H. Duncombe); easterly by East Chester Creek; southerly by land of heirs of Philip Pell, deceased; and westerly by land of heirs of widow Roberts -- containing five acres, three roods, and eight perches, be the same more or less -- being the same premises conveyed to the said James Hay, deceased, by Isaac Sherwood and Harriet his wife, by deed bearing date 7th of May, 1850.

PARCEL 3 -- All those certain six lots of land in the town of Pelham, said county of Westchester, known as lots Nos. 8, 156, 170, 212, 286, and 381, on a map entitled 'Map of Pelhamville, Westchester County, New York,' dated August 4th, 1851, surveyed by William Bryson, and filed in Westchester County Clerk's Office, bounded and containing, according to said map as follows:  North lot number 8 -- bounded north by lot No. 91, seventy-five feet; south-east by land of said James Hay, one hundred and fifteen feet; south by lot No. 74, twenty-five feet; and west by lot No. 75, one hundred feet.  Middle lot No. 8 -- Bounded north by lot No. 52, about ninety feet; south-east by land of said James Hay, one hundred and twenty feet; south by lot No. 33, twenty-two feet; west by lot No. 34, one hundred feet.  South lot No. 8 -- Bounded north by lot No. 33, sixty-five feet; south-east by land of said James Hay, one hundred and twenty feet; and west by Fifth avenue, about one hundred feet.  Lot No. 156 -- Bounded north by Fourth street; east by First avenue, three hundred feet; south by lot marked L; and west by Hutchinson's River.  Lot No. 170 -- Bounded north by lot No. 172, one hundred feet; east by Eight avenue, one hundred feet; south by lot No. 142, one hundred feet; and west by lot No. 169, one hundred feet.  Lot No. 212 -- Bounded north by lot No. 234, one hundred feet; east by lot No. 213, one hundred feet; south by lot No. 208, one hundred feet; and west by Third avenue, one hundred feet.  Lot No. 286 -- Bounded north by lot No. 293, one hundred feet; east by Second avenue, one hundred feet; south by lot No. 264, one hundred feet; and west by lot No. 267, one hundred feet.  And lot No. 331 -- Bounded on the North by lot No. 384, one hundred feet; on the est by lot 380, one hundred feet; on the south by lot No. 364, one hundred feet; and on the wet in front by River place, one hundred feet.

PARCEL 4 -- All that certain piece, parcel, or tract of land situate lying an being in the township of Pelham, in the said county of Westchester, being part of the farm late of David J. Pell, deceased, bounded and described as follows, to wit:  Beginning at a stone set at the end of the salt meadow adjoining the easterly side of the East Chester Creek on said farm late of David J. Pell, deceased, marked X; from thence running in a line easterly, as said fence now stands, until it comes to the westerly side of the road ledaing through the farm last mentioned from the Old Boston Post Road to the New Turnpike Road leading to Boston; from thence running northerly five feet, or thereabouts to a stone set in the ground against a stone fence marked X; from thence running in line easterly to the line fence between the said farm of David J. Pell, deceased, and the farm late of Philip Pell, deceased, at a stone set in the ground, marked X; from thence running in a line northerly along the fence last mentioned till it comes to the Old Boston Post Road, above mentioned, to a stone set in the ground marked X; from thence westerly by and with the said road till it comes to the bridge commonly called Pell's Bridge; from thence southerly by and with Hutchinson's River, or East Chester Creek, to the place of beginning -- containing ninety acres, be the same more or less.  Also, all that other piece, parcel or tract of land, or salt medow, lying and being in the town of East Chester, in the said county, bounded as follows:  On the North by the Old Boston Post Road; westerly by the land of Jesse Lyon; south by the land of widow Franklin, deceased; east by East Chester Creek -- containing about seven acres, be the same more or less.

PARCEL 5 -- All that certain dwelling house and lot of land situate in the town of East Chester, in said county of Westchester, known and described as follows, to wit:  Bounded on the west and north by the Old Boston Post Road, leading from East Chester aforesaid to New Rochelle; easterly by a salt meadow belonging to James Hay; southerly by land of Stephen Jones; and containing in the above bounds about six and a half acres, be the same more or less -- being the same premises conveyed to the said James Hay, deceased, by George Faile, Administrator, &c., of Abraham Simmonds, deceased, by deed bearing date the 19th day of January, 1836.

PARCEL 6 -- All the right, title, and interest which the said intestate, at the time of his decease, had in and to the following premises, viz:  All that certain piece, parcel, tract, or farm of land situate in the town of Pelham aforesaid, and bounded northerly by the Old Boston Post Road; westerly by land of Francis Secor and the said James Hay; southerly by the East Chester turnpike road; and easterly by land of Henry Grenzebeck [sic] -- containing about one hundred and fourteen acres of land -- subject to the privilege heretofore conveyed to Daniel Sherwood, of taking from the spring of water on the above described premises, (opposite the dwelling house,) for the necessary use of the said Daniel Sherwood, so far as the said privilege is conveyed to the said Sherwood, in a certain deed to him from Robert S. Hart, Master in Chancery -- being the same premises conveyed to the said James Hay, deceased, by Mary Pell, by deed bearing date the 9th day of January, 1846. -- Dated July 16, 1856.

REBECCA HAY, Administratrix,
WILLIAM S. POPHAM,              }
SAMUEL T. CAREY,                  }     Administrators of James Hay, deceased.
SAMUEL E. LYON,                    }

ROBERT COCHRAN, Proctor for Petitioners.     10w7"

Source:  WESTCHESTER COUNTY SURROGATE COURT. -- In the matter of the application of the Administrators, &c., of JAMES HAY, deceased, for authority to sell the real estate of intestate, &c. [Legal Notice], Eastern State Journal [White Plains, NY], Aug. 1, 1856, Vol. XII, No. 12, p. 4, col. 6.

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I have written about James Hay and his lovely historic home known as "Pelhamdale" (and "Pelham Dale") on numerous occasions.  For a few of many examples, see:

Wed., Nov. 30, 2016:  Article on the History of Pelhamdale Published in 1925 After Tragic Fire.

Thu., Nov. 03, 2016:  1860 Auction Offering Pelhamdale Lots from the Estate of James Hay.

Thu., Oct. 20, 2016:  Fears in 1934 and 1935 that the Historic Home Known as Pelhamdale Would Be Razed.

Fri, May 13, 2016 1851:  Advertisement Offering Farm and Mansion Known as Pelhamdale for Lease.

Fri., Sep. 04, 2015:  Sale of the Pre-Revolutionary War Home Known as Pelhamdale in 1948.

Tue., Jun. 24, 2014:  Story of Pelhamdale, the Old Stone House by the Bridge, Once Owned by David J. Pell.

Thu., Jan. 03, 2008:  Charges in 1808 Against Lieutenant-Colonel David J. Pell of Pelham that He "Indulges in Inebriety and Habitual Drunkeness." 

Thu., Oct. 26, 2006:  Genealogical Data Regarding David Jones Pell of the Manor of Pelham, Revolutionary War Officer. 

Mon., Oct 15, 2007:  Town Proclamation Recognizes Celebration of the 250th Anniversary of Pelhamdale at 45 Iden Avenue. 

Wed., Nov. 02, 2005:  Engraving by P.M. Pirnie Showing Pelhamdale in 1861. 

Thu., Oct. 13, 2005:  Two More Pelham Ghost Stories. 

Mon., Sep. 19, 2005:  The Long-Hidden Pastoral Mural Uncovered in Pelhamdale, a Pre-Revolutionary War Home. 

Mon., Apr. 11, 2005:  More From the William R. Montgomery Glass Negative Collection (includes photograph of fire at Pelhamdale on February 28, 1925). 

Tue., Mar. 22, 2005:  The 1790 U.S. Census Information for the Township of Pelham.

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Home Page of the Historic Pelham Blog
Order a Copy of "Thomas Pell and the Legend of the Pell Treaty Oak."

The Will of Philip Pell Sr. of the Manor of Pelham

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Home Page of the Historic Pelham Blog.
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This article presents the will of Philip Pell of the Manor of Pelham who died between December 21, 1751 and May 27, 1752.  Sometimes referenced as Philip Pell I, he married Hannah Mott.  Philip Pell I was a son of Thomas Pell, so-called "Third Lord" of the Manor of Pelham.  Philip Pell I was the father of Philip Pell II (1732-1788) who married Gloria Tredwell.  Philip Pell II is believed to have built the original Pell farmhouse that forms a portion of the home that still stands known as "Pelhamdale," listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Philip Pell II was the father of Philip Pell III (often referenced, confusingly, as "Philip Pell, Jr.") who is one of the most celebrated men ever to have lived in Pelham.  

In failing health, on December 21, 1751, Philip Pell I executed his last Will and Testament.  I have written about the will before, based on a published abstract of its contents.  See Fri., Mar. 09, 2007:  Abstract of Will of Philip Pell I of the Manor of Pelham Prepared in 1751 and Proved in 1752.  Today's posting to the Historic Pelham Blog transcribes the entire text of the will of Philip Pell I and presents images of each of the pages of the will from the archives of the Surrogate's Court.  In addition, the article discusses the significance of various aspects of Pell's will.  

In his will, Pell leaves his real estate and the vast majority of the remainder of his estate to his son, Philip Pell II.  He provides for the future and comfort of his wife at the time of his death, "Phebe," who was his second wife.  Pell's will provided:

"I give to my present Wife Phebe all the plate which now remains which she brought with her when we were married also one Negro Boy named Lew one good feather Bed Beding [sic] & furniture also I order my said Wife shall have the Liberty & priviledge [sic] of living in one of the Rooms in my house which she shall choose as long as she shall live and I order my son Philip to maintain her in an Honourable Manner & find her a good horse and chair to go abroad with."

The will further notes that in the event of any dispute between Phebe Pell and his son, Philip Pell II, regarding her living arrangements in the home, then his son would have to pay her two hundred pounds and she would have to leave the home.

The will also details bequests to the two daughters of Philip Pell I:  Hannah Pell and Martha Pell.  First, Pell bequeathed to them equal shares of "all the valuable goods & plate which I had by my first Wife Hannah dec'd."  

Each received three young slaves and three hundred pounds.  The sums were to be paid in six annual installments of 50 pounds beginning at the time of marriage or the age of twenty one, whichever came first.  Both daughters also were permitted, on the day of their marriage, each to select and take six milk cows from the herd bequeathed to his son, Philip Pell II.  Hannah seemed to receive a special bequest in the form of "half a Dozen Silver Spoons which I had made last winter."

The full text of the will, and images of the pages of the will from the archives of the Surrogate's Court, appear below.

Transcription of the Text of the Will of Philip Pell I

"83

I Philip Pell of the Manor of Pelham in the County of Westchester & province of New York Yeoman being indisposed in Body but of sound mind & memory do make my last Will and Testament in manner following first I order all my just debts & funeral charges to be duly paid and satisfied in some convenient time after my decease 2d I give to my present Wife Phebe all the plate which now remains which she brought with her when we were married also one Negro Boy named Lew one good feather Bed Beding [sic] & furniture also I order my said Wife shall have the Liberty & priviledge [sic] of living in one of the Rooms in my house which she shall choose as long as she shall live and I order my son Philip to maintain her in an      81      Honourable Manner & find her a good horse and chair to go abroad with and if any difference should happen to arrise [sic] between my sd Wife & my son Phillip his heirs and assigns then I order my said Philip his heirs or assigns / in case of such difference about her living / to pay to my said wife the sum of two hundred pounds over & above what I have hereby given her which shall be in full Lieu of her thirds or Dower & she shall quit my house and estate & if she shall agree with my said son & live with him as I have above desired tht also shall be in lieu of her thirds or dower 3d I order all the valuable goods & plate which I had by my first Wife Hannah dec'd to be equally divided between my two daughters Hannah & Martha Pell"

"84
Page No. Old Liber

share & share alike 4  I also give to my Daughter Hannah my Three negro children namely Kate Robin & Jean to her own use for ever  I also give to my Daughter Hannah ) [sic] the sum of three hundred pounds to be paid to her after the following manner by my son philip [sic] his heirs or assigns (to wit) fifty pounds thereof to be paid to her at the day of her Marriage or at the time when she shall attain the age of twenty one years which may first happen & fifty pounds every year after untill [sic] the whole three hundred pounds be paid her  I likewise order that my said Daughter Hannah  shall at the day of her Marriage / if she shall marry / have the Liberty to choose out Six Milks [sic] Cows out of my son Philips [sic] stock  I also give her half a Dozen Silver Spoons which I had made last winter 5th I also give unto my Daughter Martha my three Negro children named Moll Titus & Boss to her own use for ever  I also give to my daughter Martha the sum of three hundred pounds to be paid to her after the following manner (by my said son Philip his heirs or assigns) to witt [sic] fifty pounds thereof at the day of her Marriage or at the time when she shall attain the age of twenty one years which shall first happen and fifty pounds every year after untill [sic] the whole three hundred pounds be paid to her  I likewise order that my said daughter Martha shall at the day of her marriage (if she shall marry) have the liberty to choose out six Milk Cowes [sic] out of my son Philip's stock  6 and in case either of my said Daughters hannah [sic] or Martha should happen to die before Marriage or attaining the age of twenty one years then I order all her share or portion so dying to be given to the surviving Daughter her Ex rs Adm rs & assigns for ever  7 all the rest residue and remainder of my whole estate both Real and personal Goods and Chattels Lands and Tenements whatsoever and wheresoever I give devise and bequeath the same unto my only son Philip Pell & to his heirs Executors Admin rs & Assigns for ever subject nevertheless to the payment of the af d Legacies to my said two daughters and I do hereby require and charge him his heirs and assigns to pay the several Legacies to my said Daughters or Survivor at the times above specified & to let 'em choose each Six Cowes [sic] as is before directed and if my Son Philip his heirs or assigns shall neglect or refuse to pay the said Legacies of three hundred pounds to my said daughters as is before directed & refuse to let 'em choose out six Cowes [sic] as aforesaid then it shall & may be lawfull [sic] & I order & empower any one of my Executors to sell so much of my Lands as will be sufficient to pay the said Legacies & make good the damage for refusing the Cows to my said Daughters  Lastly I nominate and appoint  82     my said Wife Phebe my said Son Philip pell Jun r and my Brother in Law William Mott Executors of this my last Will"

"85

and Testament hereby making void all former Wills by me made declaring this only to be my last Will & Testament  In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this twenty first day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and fifty one.

Philip Pell (Ls)

Signed sealed Published and declared by the said Philip Pell as and for his last Will and Testament in the presence of us who sign our names as Witnesses thereof in his presence the words (last Winter) between the 2 last lines at the bottom of the first side of this sheet being interlined.  Joseph Rodman  Joseph Pell  Jno. Bartow

Westchester County } Ls  March 14th 1752 Be it Remembred [sic] that on the day and year above written personally appeared before Samuel Purdy being thereunto delegated and appointed Joseph Pell one of the subscribing Witnesses to the within Will of philip [sic] Pell and made oath on the Holy Evangelist of Almighty God and Joseph Rodman one other witness to said Will of philip pell [sic] and he being one of the people called Quakers on his solemn affirmation declared that they saw the said Philip Pell sign seal publish and Declare the same to be his last Will and Testament and that at the time thereof he was of sound and disposing mind and memory to the best of their knowledge and belief & severally subscribed their names as witnesses to the said Will in the Esc r Tesators presence.

Sam. ll Purdy

George Clinton Esq r  Captain General and Governor in chief of the province of New York and Territories thereon depending in America Vice Admiral of the same and Admiral of the White Squadron of his Majestys [sic] Fleet To all to whom these presents shall come or may concern Greeting.  Know Ye that at Westchester County on the fourteenth day of March last before Samuel Purdy Esq r being thereunto delegated and appointed the last Will and Testament of Philip Pell deceased (a Copy whereof is hereunto annexed) was proved and now approved and allowed by me the said deceased having whilst he lived and at the time of his death Goods Chattels and Credits within this province by means whereof the proving and Registering the said Will and the granting administration of all and singular the said Goods Chattels and Credits and also the auditing allowing and final discharging the accompt thereof doth belong unto me And that administration of all and singular the Goods Chattel and Credits of the said deceased and any way"

"86
Page No. Old Liber

concerning his Will was granted unto Philip Pell Jun r and William Mott two of the Executors in the said Will     83     named being first sworn well and faithfully to administer the same and to make and exhibit a true and perfect Inventory of all and Singular the said Goods Chattels and Credits and also to render a just and true accompt thereof when thereunto lawfully requested.  In Testimony whereof I have caused the prerogrative Seal of the province of New York to be hereunto affixed this twenty seventh day of May one thousand seven hundred and fifty two.

Jno Ranyar D Secry"

Images of Pages of the Will of Philip Pell I

December 21, 1751 Will of Philip Pell, Sr., Proved May 27, 1752,

Page 1.  Source:  New York Surrogate's Court (New York County),

Wills, Volume 0018-0019, 1751-1756, p. 83 (Available Via

Ancestry.com "Record of Wills, 1665-1916:  Index to Wills 1662-

1923, New York Surrogate's Court).  NOTE:  Click on Image

to Enlarge.

December 21, 1751 Will of Philip Pell, Sr., Proved May 27, 1752,

Page 2.  Source:  New York Surrogate's Court (New York County),

Wills, Volume 0018-0019, 1751-1756, p. 84 (Available Via

Ancestry.com "Record of Wills, 1665-1916:  Index to Wills 1662-

1923, New York Surrogate's Court).  NOTE:  Click on Image

to Enlarge.

December 21, 1751 Will of Philip Pell, Sr., Proved May 27, 1752,

Page 3.  Source:  New York Surrogate's Court (New York County),

Wills, Volume 0018-0019, 1751-1756, p. 85 (Available Via

Ancestry.com "Record of Wills, 1665-1916:  Index to Wills 1662-

1923, New York Surrogate's Court).  NOTE:  Click on Image

to Enlarge.

December 21, 1751 Will of Philip Pell, Sr., Proved May 27, 1752,

Page 4.  Source:  New York Surrogate's Court (New York County),

Wills, Volume 0018-0019, 1751-1756, p. 86 (Available Via

Ancestry.com "Record of Wills, 1665-1916:  Index to Wills 1662-

1923, New York Surrogate's Court).  NOTE:  Click on Image

to Enlarge.

Archive of the Historic Pelham Web Site.

Home Page of the Historic Pelham Blog.

Order a Copy of "Thomas Pell and the Legend of the Pell Treaty Oak."  

Sale of the Pre-Revolutionary War Home Known as Pelhamdale in 1948

Archive of the Historic Pelham Web Site.
Home Page of the Historic Pelham Blog.
Order a Copy of "Thomas Pell and the Legend of the Pell Treaty Oak."

There is a lovely historic home located at 45 Iden Avenue in the Village of Pelham Manor.  It is known as "Pelhamdale."  Portions of the home are believed to pre-date the Revolutionary War. The home once was owned by American Patriot David Jones Pell.  The structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The home has been significantly altered since the eighteenth century.

In 1948, the home was sold to Joseph Boucher of the Bronx.  At the time, the home was owned by the estate of W. W. Taylor and had been on the market for an exceedingly long period of time.  During that time, Town residents proposed all sorts of schemes to "save" the home.  Pelham Post 50, American Legion proposed to buy Pelhamdale to serve as its local headquarters, but objections from neighbors stopped that effort.  Townspeople proposed to raise money privately to purchase the home and designate it as the Town of Pelham Public Library as a memorial to those who fought in World War II.  The effort failed, however, due to a "lack of public interest."

Though the home has been through a succession of owners during its roughly 265-year history, it remains today an elegant private residence listed on the National Register of Historic Places do to its storied history and the backgrounds of those who have lived in it including Philip Pell and his son, David Jones Pell.

I have written about David J. Pell and the lovely historic home known as "Pelhamdale" and "Pelham Dale" on numerous occasions.  For a few examples, see:

Tue., Jun. 24, 2014:  Story of Pelhamdale, the Old Stone House by the Bridge, Once Owned by David J. Pell.

Thu., Jan. 03, 2008:  Charges in 1808 Against Lieutenant-Colonel David J. Pell of Pelham that He "Indulges in Inebriety and Habitual Drunkeness." 

Thu., Oct. 26, 2006:  Genealogical Data Regarding David Jones Pell of the Manor of Pelham, Revolutionary War Officer. 

Mon., Oct 15, 2007:  Town Proclamation Recognizes Celebration of the 250th Anniversary of Pelhamdale at 45 Iden Avenue. 

Wed., Nov. 02, 2005:  Engraving by P.M. Pirnie Showing Pelhamdale in 1861. 

Thu., Oct. 13, 2005:  Two More Pelham Ghost Stories. 

Mon., Sep. 19, 2005:  The Long-Hidden Pastoral Mural Uncovered in Pelhamdale, a Pre-Revolutionary War Home. 

Mon., Apr. 11, 2005:  More From the William R. Montgomery Glass Negative Collection (includes photograph of fire at Pelhamdale on February 28, 1925). 

Tue., Mar. 22, 2005:  The 1790 U.S. Census Information for the Township of Pelham. 

Pelhamdale on October 14, 2007.  Photograph by the Author.

NOTE:  Click Image To Enlarge.

Today's posting to the Historic Pelham Blog transcribes the text of an article published in 1948 describing a recent sale of Pelhamdale.  It is followed by a citation and link to its source. 

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"Historic Old Pell House Sold, Built Before Revolutionary War

PELHAM MANOR -- Pell House, almost 200 years old and one of Westchester's historic landmarks, Carol Place and Iden Avenue, has been sold by the estate of W. W. Taylor to Joseph Boucher, 2534 Woodhull Avenue, the Bronx.

John K. Miller, Mount Vernon real estate broker, who handled the transaction, and who has been managing agent of the property for 16 years, said the new owner will occupy the house and plans extensive alterations.  The old stone house, which stands on a plot of an acre-and-a-half, has 13 rooms.

Dates From 1750

The house, the only pre-Revolutionary mansion still standing in Pelham Manor [sic], was erected around 1750 - 1760, according to Lockwood Barr, town historian.  Mr. Barr, in his book, 'Ancient Town of Pelham,' relates that the house originally was called Pelham Dale, from which Pelhamdale Avenue derives its name.  It was built by Philip Pell II, grandson of the third Lord of the Manor of Pelham.

According to Mr. Barr, the house, on a small triangular tract bounded by Carol Place, Iden Avenue, and the Hutchinson Parkway, is all that remains of the original large farm.  After the Revolution, Colonel David Pell, a son of Philip Pell II, lived in the old homestead until his death in 1823.  His widow sold the tract to James Hay, who named the place Pelham Dale.

In the North wall of the house is imbedded a large piece of red sandstone on which is cut in relief the coat-of-arms of the Hay family.

Sought as Historic Shrine

'Pelham Dale was one of the magnificent country estates of Westchester,' Mr. Barr writes.  'It has passed through many ownerships; yet today, in spite of its use and abuse, it still is a fine example of the mansions of its day.  Numerous unsuccessful attempts have been made to interest some patriotic society in purchasing thiss old Pell place and restoring it as a historic museum for the Pelhams.'

Last year Pelham Post 50, American Legion, was considering buying the property for a clubhouse but Pelham Manor residents objected.  Last January a proposal by the Pelham Realty Board that the mansion be purchased by popular subscription as a town public library for a World War II memorial, fell through from lack of public interest."

Source:  Historic Old Pell House Sold, Built Before Revolutionary War, The Daily Argus [Mount Vernon, NY], Aug. 4, 1948, p. 5, cols. 4-6.  

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Stained Glass Window Honoring Philip Pell of the Manor of Pelham in St. Paul's Chapel of Columbia University

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Philip Pell is one of the most illustrious and distinguished citizens ever to have lived in Pelham.  Born July 7, 1753, he was the eldest son of Philip and Gloriana (Treadwell) Pell.  He served as Acting Judge Advocate General of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.  He rode with George Washington into Manhattan on Evacuation Day at the close of the War.  He served as a Delegate to the Continental Congress, a member of the New York State Assembly, a Regent of the University of the State of New York, and Surrogate of Westchester County.

Pell lived in a home that he built near today's Colonial Avenue (the old Boston Post Road) and today's Cliff Avenue.  The 1750 date stone from his home that no longer stands is embedded in the side of a monument to Pell standing next to the Pelham Memorial High School.  

Philip Pell has been memorialized by Columbia University as well.  In 1906, Columbia University completed and dedicated the St. Paul's Chapel of Columbia University.  The dome of the chapel includes sixteen stained glass windows that are the work Maitland Armstrong.  Each of the sixteen windows reflects a family coat of arms in honor of important Kings College and Columbia University graduates.  The windows appear in the order of the graduation dates of each of the graduates honored.  The Pell Family coat of arms graces the window in honor of Philip Pell which is the sixth window of the sixteen based on Pell's graduation date of 1770.  

Pell Family Coat of Arms Such as That

Depicted in the Stained Glass Window in the

Dome of St. Paul's Chapel of Columbia University

Honoring Philip Pell of the Manor of Pelham.

Immediately below is a brief article that appeared in the June 1, 1906 issue of The New York Times describing the installation of the sixteen stained glass windows in the chapel dome.

"MEMORIALS FOR COLUMBIA.
-----
Sixteen Stained Glass Windows Being Erected in the Chapel Dome.

Sixteen stained glass memorial windows, designed and executed by Maitland Armstrong of this city, are being put in the dome of the new chapel of Columbia University, and will be unveiled at commencement.  They are in memory of graduates of Kings College and Columbia University.  Each window contains the family coat of arms of one of the graduates.  The are arranged in chronological order in relation to the date of graduation beginning with Van Cortlandt window, 1758.  Among those graduates commemorated are:

Philip Pell of Pelham Manor, Judge Advocate of the Continental Army and a member of the Society of the Cincinnati.  He rode with Washington to New York when it was evacuated by the British, and was one of the best Greek scholars of his time.

Gov. De Witt Clinton, a member of the de Peyster family.  He was known as 'the father of the Erie Canal,' and was the first student to enter Columbia after it gave up the name of Kings.  He was graduated at the head of his class.

Col. Nicholas Fish, an officer in the Revolution, one of the founders of the Society of the Cincinnati, and an intimate friend of Washington, Lafayette, and Hamilton.

Col. Thomas Barclay, a British Consul General at New York.

James W. Beekman, one of the chief promoters of Central Park.

Robert B. Minturn, a leading merchant of his time.

The following is a complete list of the windows:

1.  Van Cortlandt, class of 1758; given by Robert B. Van Cortlandt.

2.  Anthony Lispenard, class of 1761; given by Lispenard Stewart.

3.  Abraham de Peyster, class of 1763; Frederick J. de Peyster, class of 1862; given by Mrs. Frederic J. de Peyster.

4.  Egbert Benson, class of 1765; given by Julien T. Davies.

5.  Gerard Beekman, class of 1766; Gerard Beekman, class of 1792; James W. Beekman, class of 1834; Henry R. Beekman, class of 1865; given by Gerard Beekman.

6.  Philip Pell, class of 1870 [sic, should be 1770], given by Howland Pell.

7.  Thomas Barclay, class of 1772; given by George L. Rives.

8.  De Witt Clinton, class of 1786; given by Charles L. Clinton.

9.  William C. Rhinelander, class of 1808; given by William Rhinelander Stewart.

10.  Nathaniel Greene Pendleton, class of 1813; given by Francis K. Pendleton.

11.  Nicholas Fish, class of 1817; given by Stuyvesant Fish.

12.  Gouerneur Morris Ogden, class of 1838; given by David B. Ogden.

13.  George L. Kingsland, class of 1856; Ambrose C. Kingsland, class of 1856; given by Mrs. George L. Kingsland.

12. [sic, should be 14.]  Robert B. Minturn, class of 1856; given by Mrs. Robert B. Minturn.

15.  Mahlon Sands, class of 1861; Philip J. Sands, class of 1861; given by Mrs. A. B. Sands.

16.  Louis M. Cheesman, class of 1878; given by Dr. T. M. Cheesman."

Source:  MEMORIALS FOR COLUMBIA -- Sixteen Stained Glass Windows Being Erected in the Chapel Dome, N. Y. Times, Jun. 1, 1906, p. 9, col. 4 (paid subscription required to access link).

St. Paul's Chapel of Columbia University.
Source:  "2014 Columbia University St. Paul's Chapel"

by Beyond My Ken - Own work. Licensed under GFDL

via Wikimedia Commons.  NOTE:  Click Image to Enlarge. 

*          *           *          *          *

I have written extensively about Colonel Philip Pell in the past.  For a few of the many examples of such postings, see:

Mon., Jan. 27, 2014:  What is that Memorial Tablet Next to Pelham Memorial High School and Who Was Col. Philip Pell?

Tue. Feb. 9, 2010:  1755 Census of Slaves Older than Fourteen in the "Mannour of Pelham."  

Fri., Jan. 9, 2009:  Another Brief Biography of Philip Pell of the Manor of Pelham.  

Tue., Dec. 4, 2007:  Philip Pell of Pelham Elected to Chair Meeting of Supporters of the New York Gubernatorial Candidacy of George Clinton in 1789.  

Mon., Nov. 5, 2007:  References to Philip Pell in the Minutes of the Commissioners for Detecting and Defeating Conspiracies in the State of New York.  

Fri., Mar. 30, 2007:  Biographical Information for Philip Pell Published in 1895.  

Fri., Mar. 9, 2007:  Abstract of Will of Philip Pell, Sr. of the Manor of Pelham Prepared in 1751 and Proved in 1752.  [This is an abstract of the will of the father of Col. Philip Pell.] 

Wed., Oct. 18, 2006:  18th Century Statutes Appointing Philip Pell, Sr. of Pelham To Collect Taxes on "Strong Liquors Retailed in This Colony."  [This is the father of Col. Philip Pell.]

Thu., Aug. 24, 2006:  Philip Pell of the Manor of Pelham: An Early Victim of the "Spoils System" in New York at the Turn of the 19th Century.  

Mon., Jul. 17, 2006:  1780 Letter to George Clinton from American Patriot Philip Pell of Pelham Manor, Commissary of Prisoners of the State of New York.   

Thu., Apr. 20, 2006:  1788 Campaign Broadside Urging Support for Candidate Opposing Philip Pell of Pelham Manor.

Archive of the Historic Pelham Web Site.

Home Page of the Historic Pelham Blog.

Order a Copy of "Thomas Pell and the Legend of the Pell Treaty Oak."

What is that Memorial Tablet Next to Pelham Memorial High School and Who Was Col. Philip Pell?

Archive of the Historic Pelham Web Site.
Home Page of the Historic Pelham Blog.
Order a Copy of "Thomas Pell and the Legend of the Pell Treaty Oak."

 

Near the front entrance of the Pelham Memorial High School there is a lovely granite memorial with a bronze plaque dedicated to Col. Philip Pell.  Those who are particularly observant will notice that embedded in the side of the granite memorial is another stone with "1750" inscribed on it.  What is this memorial?

The bronze tablet contains the following inscription:

"THE GROUNDS OF THE

PELHAM MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL

WERE PART OF THE FARM BELONGING TO 

COLONEL PHILIP PELL 

1753 - 1811 

JUDGE ADVOCATE CONTINENTAL ARMY

MEMBER OF THE NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY

REGENT OF THE UNIVERSITY OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

SURROGATE OF WESTCHESTER COUNTY, N.Y.

DELEGATE TO THE CONTINENTAL CONGRESS

------------------

THE DATE STONE 1750 WAS TAKEN FROM HIS HOMESTEAD.

------------------

THIS TABLET IS PRESENTED TO THE TOWN OF PELHAM

IN MEMORY OF MARY SARGENT GAUSE

OCTOBER 15, 1938"

Immediately below are several photographs that I have taken of the memorial including the plaque and the date stone from the Philip Pell homestead.  

Philip Pell (July 7, 1753 - May 1, 1811) was born in the Manor of Pelham.  He graduated from Kings College (the predecessor to Columbia University), read the law and was admitted to the bar of New York.  He practiced law in Westchester County and New York City.  

Philip Pell is buried in the cemetery at St. Paul's Church National Historic Site in Mt. Vernon, New York.  He served as a lieutenant in the Westchester County militia at the onset of the Revolutionary War.  By 1777, he was appointed Deputy Judge Advocate for the Continental Army, "a position that almost certainly introduced him to General Washington."   Osborn, David, Philip Pell:  Revolutionary War Leader, Last Member of the Continental Congress (Nat'l Park Service U.S. Dep't of the Interior, St. Paul's Church National Historic Site, Jul. 2013) (available at http://www.nps.gov/sapa/historyculture/upload/Pell-updated.pdf).  As one author who has studied his life has noted, "[d]rawing from his training, he offered legal advice to senior officers, guided interpretations of army regulations and the code of conduct, and prosecuted trials before courts-martial or other tribunals."  Id.  

Pell was elected to the New York State legislature in 1778.  He served for three years in Poughkeepsie, Dutchess County, New York, which then was the state capital.  During a portion of this time, he served as Commissary of Prisoners in New York.  He was, in effect, responsible for "exchanging captured militia troops for enemy soldiers."  Id.  

Some, including those who created the memorial plaque next to the Pelham Memorial High School, have claimed that Pell served as Judge Advocate General of the Army.  However:

"There is a confusing place in Pell's resume following the 1781.  Many biographical sketches list him serving as Judge Advocate General of the Army, but the official history of that office doesn't mention him.  It records two other lawyers -- James Innes and Richard Howell -- who were appointed, but declined the position.  It seems that Pell, who served on General Washington's staff from 1781 to 1783 with the rank of Colonel, functioned in the capacity of Judge Advocate General of the Army while never obtaining official appointment by the Continental Congress."  

Id.

After the Revolutionary War, Pell was elected to the State legislature where he served from 1784 to 1786.  He also served as a regent of the University of the State of New York from 1784-1787.  The State of New York also sent him as a delegate to the final session of the Continental Congress where he oversaw the adjournment sine die of that final session.  He thus has been referred to as the "last member of the Continental Congress."  

Philip Pell was rabid Anti-Federalist who opposed the sort of strong central government proposed in the new U.S. Constitution (and touted  by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison and John Jay in essays that later became known as The Federalist Papers).   

After the end of the Continental Congress and the implementation of the new U.S. Constitution, Philip Pell withdrew from national and state politics.  He did, however, serve in the office of surrogate for Westchester County from March 13, 1787 to October 31, 1800.  

The memorial to Colonel Philip Pell was dedicated next to the high school on October 15, 1938.  The following Friday, there was extensive coverage of the event in the local newspaper, The Pelham Sun.  Below I have reproduced various images that were published as part of the coverage and have transcribed the articles included as part of the coverage.  

"Officials With Donor of Tablet

Mayor Edmund C. Gause of Pelham Manor (center) donor of the tablet dedicated to the patriotism of Col. Philip Pell, first Supervisor of the Town of Pelham, at Memorial High School, on Saturday.  The group also includes Town Historian William R. Montgomery, former Congressman Ben L. Fairchild, Congressman James M. Fitzpatrick, Supervisor Harold W. Davis and Loren O. Thompson who participated in the ceremonies, and officials of the villages and town."

"Recall Pelham's Beginnings At Dedication of Memorial To Patriotism of Col. Pell

-----

Town Historian William R. Montgomery, Former Congressman Ben L. Fairchild Tell Interesting Story of Old Days of Pelham.  

-----

A tribute was paid to the patriotism and service of one of Pelham's most distinguished early sons, in the dedication of a tablet erected in honor of Col. Philip Pell, at Pelham Memorial High School on Saturday afternoon.  Many local residents were given a glimpse of the symbolic foundation stones of the Town of Pelham.  Town Historian William R. Montgomery, and former Congressman Ben L. Fairchild, speakers of the day, drew interesting pictures of the early Pelham, bringing to light some delightful facts about our beginnings.  

The tablet, mounted on a granite boulder in which the date stone of the old Col. Philip Pell homestead has been inserted, was unveiled by Col. C. Sidney Haight, U.S. A. retired.  Mrs. R. Clifford Black of Pelham Manor dedicated the tablet.  L. Ogden Thompson, former president of the Board of Education made the presentation and Supervisor Harold W. Davis accepted it for the Town of Pelham.  Mayor Edmund C. Gause of Pelham Manor donated the stone and tablet as a memorial to his wife, the late Mary Sargent Gause.  The stone has been erected near the entrance to the high school where it will stand as an inspiration to the youth of Pelham.  

The program was arranged by Town Historian Montgomery and is the first of a series of functions honoring individuals who have made important contributions to Pelham's history.  Col. Philip Pell was the first Supervisor of the Town of Pelham, a Judge Advocate of the Continental Army, a member of the New York State Assembly, a Regent of the University of the State of New York, Surrogate of Westchester County and a delegate to the Continental Congress.  

School Trustee Perrin C. Galpin acted as chairman of the meeting.

The site on which the stone was erected was once part of Col. Pell's farm.  The date stone, with the rude inscription '1750' was taken from the chimney of Col. Pell's house when it was destroyed by fire in 1888.  The homestead was situated on Colonial avenue (the old Boston Post Road) near what is now Cliff avenue.

In his address 'Old Pelham,' Town Historian Montgomery announced his plan to establish a 'Field of Honor' commemorating the deeds of men and women of the Pelhams who have contributed to the historical growth of the town.  He referred to Anne Hutchinson, who in 1642 established the first colony here.  ; to Lord Pell who founded the Manor of Pelham; to Aaron Burr who once lived on Split Rock Road, and others of historical importance.  

'In 1942 we are planning to observe the 300th Anniversary of the settling of Anne Hutchinson here,' said Mr. Montgomery.  'It is hoped that a statue dedicated to this great woman can be erected and that the program will receive national recognition.'

Mr. Montgomery told the story of the old trail which the Indians used in coming from Long Island Sound to the east and west path.  Split Rock Road followed the general route of that trail from the shore and Colonial avenue the east and west trail.  

He told how the first white men followed these trails and how they became the roads, and later the important highways.  

'On Split Rock Road in 1730 Joshua Pell built his home,' said Mr. Montgomery, 'and in 1790 this became the property of Aaron Burr.  Burr, it is said, was responsible for the present Boston Post Road through Pelham Manor.  It was opened in 1804 as a toll road and later taken over by the state.'

Payment of Fatted Calf Suggested

Former Congressman Ben L. Fairchild, founder of Pelham Heights, in a talk on 'New Pelham,' told of the beginning of the present Pelham Heights village, and how he stood with Clarence S. McClellan, the president of the First National Bank of Mount Vernon on a rocky bluff in Mount Vernon, overlooking the Pelham that was then a wooded tract.  'Mr. McClellan regarded that land as a sentimental inheritance because his grandfather had purchased it from Col. Philip Pell, who had in turn obtained it from the original grantor.  Mr. McClellan subsequently erected a fine residence on what was approximately the site of the old farmhouse of his grandfather.  I wanted to purchase the entire tract which is now the Village of Pelham Heights, but while I was in California Ben Corlies purchased a section known as the Corlies Tract in the northeastern part of the village site.  However, I had possession of all the remaining land and with Clarence S. McClellan as my guiding hand and advisor the present highly restricted residential village was developed.'  He referred to the treaty made by Lord Pell and the Huguenots, recalling the fact that it provided that New Rochelle should pay to Pelham a fatted calf every year.

'I understand that New Rochelle has been in default for many years,' said Mr. Fairchild.  'What a splendid demonstration of neighborliness it would be if every year the city would present the town with a fatted calf and the citizens of both communities would join in a big barbecue, so that New Rochelle would no longer be in default.'

Mr. Fairchild told of making an early visit to what is now Pelham Heights, near the turn of the century, and visualizing the growth of the wooded land into the residential community.  There were small communities in Pelhamville (North Pelham) and in Pelham Manor, but they were separated by this wooded tract, said Mr. Fairchild.  It was really the improvement of this land in between that was responsible for bringing [material not legible at bottom of page] inspired the other communities to preserve their attractive suburban character.  

He paid high tribute to such men as the late Robert C. Black, John Townsend and to Henry W. Taft, now living, who did much to guide the early growth of Pelham Manor; and to the late Harry A. Anderson whose effort to clean up the tax muddle in Pelhamville was responsible for the advance of North Pelham.

First Pelham Heights School

'There were schools in Pelham Manor and in North Pelham in those days,' said Mr. Fairchild, 'but they were too far away for the smaller children in the Heights to go to, so I elected myself a Board of Education and set up a school in one of the residences.  For two or three years the children of Pelham Heights attended that school and then the local Board of Education agreed to pay the teacher's salary if I provided the school house.  From that beginning the Colonial School started.  

'Now with such brilliant men as Supt. of Schools Joseph C. Brown at its head, our school system has grown to be one of the finest in the state.'

Congressman James M. Fitzpatrick in a short talk offered the services of his office to Mr. Montgomery in arranging the Anne Hutchinson anniversary program.  He suggested that the state rights which were taken from Anne Hutchinson when she fled Rhode Island and came to Pelham, be officially restored.  Similar restoration was made in memory of Roger Williams at a program in Rhode Island two years ago.  

In accepting the memorial Supervisor Davis said:  'I believe that today we do more than honor Col. Philip Pell; we are reminding ourselves to continue with that pioneer spirit which made this nation great.'

In the dedicatory remarks, Mrs. Black said:  'I dedicate this tablet to the memory of Col. Philip Pell, the soldier, the scholar and the statesman; whose fidelity, integrity and loyalty we commend to the youth of Pelham.'

During the portion of the program held in the high school auditorium, A.J. Fregans, head of the Music department of the local schools presented an organ recital.  Marguerite Gauvreau, a high school pupil, sang 'Auld Lang Syne' and 'America.'

A military escort was provided by Pelham Post No. 50, American Legion, Elmer Williams Commanding.  Mrs. Black was escorted by members of the Knapp Chapter, D.A.R., Mrs. Hilliard C. Birney, Regent.  

The Rev. Willard P. Soper of the Huguenot Memorial Church offered the Invocation and the Rev. Edward Thomas Taggard, the Benediction.  Frank Genz was the bugler."

Source:  Recall Pelham's Beginnings At Dedication Of Memorial To Patriotism Of Col. Pell, The Pelham Sun, Oct. 21, 1938, pg. 1, col. 2 and pg. 11, col. 1-2.

The article below also appeared in the same issue of The Pelham Sun and provides further information about Philip Pell.  It is transcribed in its entirety, followed by a citation to its source.

"COLONEL PHILIP PELL (1753-1811)

Abridged from 'The Pells of Pelham'

By

William R. and Frances E. Montgomery

Colonel Philip Pell was born July 7, 1753 and was graduated with high honors from King's College (Columbia University) in 1770.  He studied law and was admitted to the Bar and practiced in New York City and Westchester County. 

In 1776 he enlisted in the 3rd Dutchess County Militia and later was made a Lieutenant.  In 1777 he was appointed Deputy Judge Advocate of the Continental Army.

He was elected a member of the State Assembly during the period 1779-1781, and was again elected for the years 1784-1785-1786.

Colonel Pell was appointed by Gen. George Washington, Judge Advocate of the United States Army for the years 1781-1782-1783 and had the honor and great privilege of being a member of General Washington's Staff at the evacuation of the City of New York by the British troops on November 25, 1783.

He was appointed Regent of the University of the State of New York for the years from 1784 to 1787. 

From 1787 to 1800 he served as Surrogate of Westchester County. 

Governor George Clinton appointed him a delegate in 1789 to the Continental Congress.  (See Biographical Directory of the American Congress, 1774-1924, Washington, Government Printing Office 1928 page 1398).

Colonel Pell was elected in 1801 as Supervisor of the Town of Pelham; also as Commissioner of Schools and served in both positions until 1811.

He died on May 21, 1811 and his remains were buried in 'Old St. Paul's' church yard, Eastchester.  He was for many years a vestryman and pewholder of 'Old St. Paul's.'

Colonel Philip Pell was proposed by General George Washington and elected on July 6, 1784 to be an Honorary Member of the Society of the 'Cincinnati.'  This society was formed in 1783 by many of the Colonial officers of the Revolutionary War, who had served honorably, and who were gentlemen in every sense of the word.  It was considered at that time to be the most desirable organization in the State.  George Washington was the first president of the society and Alexander Hamilton the second.  The by-laws contained the provision that in order to be eligible for membership, one must be the eldest son of a member, Col. Pell's membership in this society emphasized the high esteem in which he was held by his fellow officers.

Colonel Philip Pell's son also named Philip Pell succeeded his father as Supervisor of the Town of Pelham.  Through him comes the story that when General Lafayette arrived at the Eastchester Inn, in the year 1825, on his way to Boston to assist Daniel Webster in laying the corner stone of Bunker Hill Monument, he was advised of the death of his old friend Colonel Pell.  General Lafayette, learning that he was buried in St. Paul's church yard, requested the stage coach driver to go past the cemetery, rather than by the new Boston Turnpike.  After paying his respects at the grave, he continued a short distance and stopped at the old homestead, greeting the son.

We have been unable to locate any picture of Colonel Pell, but from Mr. Ogden P. Pell, who died several years ago at the age of 95 years, we learned that the Colonel was very retiring in his mode of living, and repeatedly refused high honors which were offered him by three Presidents of the United States.

Mr. Ogden P. Pell recalls a family tradition in regard to his great uncle, namely, that the Colonel was tall, of fine physique, had very black hair and dark skin, indicative of the Indian blood that flowed through his veins.  History records that his great grandfather, Hon. Thomas Pell, the third Lord of the Manor of Pelham, married Anne, the daughter of the reigning Indian chief of Westchester.

Col. Philip Pell was a man of whom everyone in the Town of Pelham could be proud, a soldier, a statesman, and a good citizen.

The Philip Pell farm originally included nearly all of the present Village of Pelham.  Immediately after the Battle of Pelham (October 18, 1776), the British troops were camped on this farm.  It made an ideal encampment as it had several springs and brooks which supplied drinking water.  In later years one of these springs was known as the McClellan Spring and for some time supplied table water for the Bolton Priory School.  These springs and brooks flowed into a lake called Glen Mitchell or Mitchell Glen which was in Pelham Manor.  The outlet crossed Pelhamdale avenue through a stone conduit or smal canal, over which were placed wooden planks, which often broke through.  When the trolley line was built on Pelhamdale avenue, the wooden planks were eliminated.

Philip Pell Jr., the son of Col. Pell, who succeeded his father as Supervisor of the Town of Pelham, often pointed out the room in the old house in which General George Washington slept on several occasions.  This homestead was later owned by the McClellan family, one of whom William S. McClellan was a member of the Board of Education in 1861, when the first school house in Pelhamville (North Pelham) was constructed, on the present site of Hutshinson School.  For years it was always referred to as 'The Old School House on the Hill.'"

Source:  Montgomery, William R. & Montgomery, Frances E., Colonel Philip Pell (1753-1811) Abridged from "The Pells of Pelham," The Pelham Sun, Oct. 21, 1938, pg. 11, col. 3.

 

Source: Montgomery, William R. & Montgomery, Frances E., Colonel Philip Pell (1753-1811) Abridged from "The Pells of Pelham," The Pelham Sun, Oct. 21, 1938, pg. 11, col. 3.

I have written extensively about Colonel Philip Pell in the past.  For a few of the many examples of such postings, see:

Tue. Feb. 9, 2010:  1755 Census of Slaves Older than Fourteen in the "Mannour of Pelham."  

Fri., Jan. 9, 2009:  Another Brief Biography of Philip Pell of the Manor of Pelham.  

Tue., Dec. 4, 2007:  Philip Pell of Pelham Elected to Chair Meeting of Supporters of the New York Gubernatorial Candidacy of George Clinton in 1789.  

Mon., Nov. 5, 2007:  References to Philip Pell in the Minutes of the Commissioners for Detecting and Defeating Conspiracies in the State of New York.  

Fri., Mar. 30, 2007:  Biographical Information for Philip Pell Published in 1895.  

Fri., Mar. 9, 2007:  Abstract of Will of Philip Pell, Sr. of the Manor of Pelham Prepared in 1751 and Proved in 1752.  [This is an abstract of the will of the father of Col. Philip Pell.] 

Wed., Oct. 18, 2006:  18th Century Statutes Appointing Philip Pell, Sr. of Pelham To Collect Taxes on "Strong Liquors Retailed in This Colony."  [This is the father of Col. Philip Pell.]

Thu., Aug. 24, 2006:  Philip Pell of the Manor of Pelham: An Early Victim of the "Spoils System" in New York at the Turn of the 19th Century.  

Mon., Jul. 17, 2006:  1780 Letter to George Clinton from American Patriot Philip Pell of Pelham Manor, Commissary of Prisoners of the State of New York.   

Thu., Apr. 20, 2006:  1788 Campaign Broadside Urging Support for Candidate Opposing Philip Pell of Pelham Manor.  

Archive of the Historic Pelham Web Site.

Home Page of the Historic Pelham Blog.

Order a Copy of "Thomas Pell and the Legend of the Pell Treaty Oak."