The Historical Society of Rockland County

Vol. 29, No. 4 October-December 1985

Rockland men at Rifle Range — 1918

THE BLAUVELT RIFLE RANGE-CAMP BLUEFIELDS THE HARING HOMESTEAD IN THIS ISSUE:

Generations of youngsters —and adults too —have explored and wondered at the mysterious miles of connected walls and tunnels known as the Rifle Range, or Camp Bluefields, in Blauvelt State Park. It was rumored that riflemen trained there, that bullets hit South Nyack homes and the shooting ended. Patricia Edwards Clyne reveals the details of the debacle that ended in one of the largest remaining ruins in Rockland County. Page 3.

Historian Howard I. Durie traces the history of a landmark mill site and home­ stead from its earliest settlement in colonial times on the Pascack Brook in Rock­ land County. Durie’s work exemplifies the research necessary to reconstruct more than two centuries of its continuous occupation. Page 13.

New Publications — Gift Suggestions

Dutch Recipes From a Colonial Kitchen, compiled by Helena Hora; 96 pages, 86 recipes with Dutch/English titles accompanied by historical notes, 13 photos. Paperbound $6. Woodsmen, Mountaineers and Rockies: The People of the Ramapos, by Ralph Sessions; 54 pages, 35 illustrations. Paperbound $3.50. 10% discount for members. Mailing & handling $1.50.

NOTICE: HSRC library is now open Mondays and Tuesdays by appointment during History Center hours. Frances Yonke, librarian.

COVER PICTURE: Section of a photo of Company D, First Infantry, N.Y.S. Guard in front of the mess hall and tower at the Blauvelt Rifle Range, May 26, 1918. The entire picture, taken by Norman A. Burke, Nyack photographer, is 40 inches long and shows 60 men from the Nyack area, all in uniform. Three men have been identified: Edward T. Lovatt, Grenville Scott and Arthur S. Tompkins. The complete photo is mounted at the History Center together with a copy. Flease examine it and identify any of the men you recognize by writing his name on the copy only. Photo, Lovatt Collection

‘ 1985 The Historical Society of Rockland County Editor: Mariruth Campbell Executive Editor of Publications: John Scott Senior Historian: Isabelle K. Saveli Associate Editor: Marianne B. Leese Printed by Print Sprint

2 The Blauvelt Rifle Range — Camp Bluefields

by Patricia Edwards Clyne

Birdsong has long since replaced the ern and eastern edges. Wide and well- whine of bullets whizzing across this packed paths to the interior of the park mountainous area of eastern Rockland can be found at various points along County, and wildflowers now camouflage these border roads, but few of the paths a crumbling complex of concrete tunnels are identified by trail markers. (Notable and target walls. But Blauvelt State exceptions are the blue-blazed Long Park’s pre-World War I rifle range still Path, part of which follows one of the provides an intriguing, if somewhat walls of the old rifle range, and the yellow- eerie, trek back through time to when marked Piermont Trail connecting Spar- National Guardsmen came here to prac­ kill to Central Nyack.) Thus, newcomers tice target-shooting —target-shooting to Blauvelt should take care to keep that was abruptly halted by a mysterious their bearings. ballistic blooper. Blauvelt is one of the smallest of the Despite this colorful past and its public recreation areas administered by equally impressive scenery, Blauvelt re­ the Palisades Interstate Park Commis­ mains one of the least known of the state sion. Covering less than 600 acres, it is parks in the Hudson Valley. Part of this the result of two separate land acquisi­ is due to its status as an “undeveloped tions. The first, a tract of 212 acres, park,” which means that there are no forms the northeastern section, and was signs to proclaim Blauvelt’s presence, donated by the heirs of Stephen Rowe other than some “posted” placards tacked Bradley of Nyack. onto trees along its perimeter. Nor are To quote from a Palisades Interstate there any parking lots; only an occasional Park Commission report made in 1912: roadside turnoff big enough for two or “This land [the Bradley tract) is on the three cars. As for public facilities such summit of the mountain and on its easter­ as restrooms and drinking fountains, ly side commands a magnificent view of there are none. Yet this very primitive­ the Tappan Zee Bay and the Hudson ness contributes to the beauty of Blau­ Valley; on the westerly side are equally velt, which isn’t really hard to find if you extensive views of the back country and know where to look. the Hackensack Valley. It is regarded Lying southwest of Nyack, with some as one of the most beautiful sights any­ contiguous local or county parkland, where in the locality.” Indeed, it still is. Blauvelt State Park is bounded (roughly) Not long after obtaining the Bradley by Clausland Mountain Road on the tract, the Palisades Interstate Park Com­ south, Greenbush to the west and Brad­ mission acquired a second, larger section ley Hill Road on the north with Tweed to the southwest, and the combined Boulevard N. running through its north­ tracts were named Blauvelt State Park.

3 In Dutch, Blauvelt means “Blue Grass­ For some reason—probably because land,” or “Blue Field.” While there may of the height of the land on which it was be areas that take on a bluish tinge at built—bullets which were supposed to certain times of the day, the region hit the target area often overshot their actually was named for some of the mark and landed in South Nyack. Need­ earliest European settlers in the area, less to say, this was somewhat upsetting the Blauvelt family, who also gave their to the folks over there, and it took only a name to the hamlet near the south­ few of these lead showers for the citizens western corner of the present-day park. of South Nyack to lodge a long and loud On land once belonging to the Blau­ complaint. velt family, a rifle range was built around (l«»« \ Iru «t Hill* Itumr. Itlauveit, Xttx V«rh 1910 for the New York National Guard. Solidly constructed, it was much more than just a series of target walls, for each battalion brought to Blauvelt would camp at the range for several days. Therefore, the complex contained such structures as a mess hall, range office, headquarters building, and storage houses, in addition to high concrete tar­ get walls connected by safety tunnels. Steward Collection

SOO-yanl, T»r*;rt« iOO-jard

When completed, the Blauvelt Rifle Steward Collection Range had cost half a million dollars—no small sum in those days. At that price, Plans were immediately made to cor­ it should have been a model of military rect what was then thought to be only a endeavor, but it wasn’t. It just didn’t minor problem in logistics. But it wasn’t work right. so minor.

4 Firing line at the Blauvelt Rifle Range. Records show that the 8th. 9th, 14th, 22nd, 23rd, 69th and 71st battalions trained at Blauvelt, as did the 13th and 14th coastal artillery and the 1st and 2nd signal battalions, all from the greater New York area. Steward Collection

Complaints

Excerpts from the several instances obtained no chance to Nyack Evening Journal shoot. The range was laid out wrong... Marksmen were not able to shoot north Sept. 27, 1911. Some of the expert rifle­ ... Had to shoot south and east with the men of the National Guard of NYS are sun in their eyes in the morning and criticizing the range that takes the place early afternoon. of Creedmoor [Long Island]. From $300 to.$400,000 has been expended on the Nov. 7, 1911. Aggrieved witnesses ap­ 321 acres comprising the Blauvelt range pearing before the Village Board: "The and it is still unfinished... Complaints Rifle Range should be abandoned and of inaccessability of Blauvelt 22 miles the site turned over to the State Park. from N.Y.C.... with train service not Bullets come over the hill... I found a satisfactory to the guardsmen.....Lack bullet in the roof of my house and another of sufficient markers and scorers... At in the barn, " said Mr. Bishop of Grand Creedmoor men living in the vicinity View. "We should stop the shooting by were obtained but at Blauvelt it is found an injunction. ” necessary to engage men in N. Y. C. and Dec. 1, 1911. Although the new Rifle they did not respond in sufficient num­ Range is only half completed and may bers. Men were offered $2.65 a day but be abandoned next year, the number of only 37 appeared. Marksmen who paid qualified marksmen this year shows an an entrance fee of from $2 to $3.00 in increase of 100 compared to 1910.

5 June 5,1912. RIFLE RANGE SHOOT­ precaution will be taken to protect the ING TERRORIZES SOUTH NYACK people of South Nyack from the danger ... Bullets through the roof and into the of bullets. kitchen of Mrs. [Grenville D.\ Wilson June 7, 1912. The Blauvelt Range is not and another in a nearby tree... noise more the first to be discontinued because of apparent than usual. inadequacy. The old Creedmoor range Superintendent Lamb of the Rifle was closed by Governor Hughes after a Range came to Nyack today to obtain woman was shot nearby while gathering evidence of possible danger from flying wood, being pierced three times by the bullets in this vicinity. He examined same bullet as she was leaning forward. Mrs. Wilson's home and saw the leaden missiles... promised to take prompt measurements... would have shields lUglmrat »t KIR* Rnngr. HUotpU. H»w York placed at the Range to prevent bullets from coming over the hill. June 6, 1912. Several houses in South Nyack struck... Tappan Zee Inn, Aval- Ion and houses of [Arthur C. \ Brady and [James W. ] Pacey hit.

TU. Kin. lU,,,.. lltan.HI. N.t. V..II Steward Collection

June 11, 1912. THIRTEENTH REGI­ MENT MARKSMEN OFFER CRITI­ CISM... RANGE NOT PROPERLY LAID OUT..."IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN DONE BY ENGINEER OFFI­ CERS, "SAYS A HIGH OFFICIAL OF THAT REGIMENT. ..‘‘We find at Blau­ Superintendent Walter Scott Lamb (2nd velt a great stretch of bare rock in front left) on the promenade of the Rifle Range, of the targets... from which a bullet can c. 1910-11. Lamb, a WWI veteran, was superintendent of the Creedmoor Range glance and make a ricochet... If the on Long Island from 1903 until it closed in excavation revealed rock there should 1910, when he became superintendent of have been earth or sand filled in there the Blauvelt Range. Steward Collection ...It puts us in the position of hitting everything in the country except the APPEAL TO THE HIGHEST STATE targets. ” A UTHORITIES... THE SO. NYACK July 13,1912. A special board of officers BOARD WILL TAKE ACTION AT A appointed to make an inquiry into con­ SPECIAL MEETING TO BE HELD ditions at Blauvelt State Rifle Range TONIGHT... Major General O'Ryan, recommends that by an arrangement of head of the National Guard of the State, overhead screens near the firing points said he would issue an order at once to complete protection may be secured. have the shooting stopped and a thor­ ough investigation will be made... every

6 IOOO YARD BUTTS ( TARGET WALL)

% blauvelt y'-! p*rE ^ PARK

^TARGET WALL,) BIAUVELT RIFLE

o ioo Iao"

Map-Claire K. Tholl and John Scott

7 Another $73,000 was spent to improve conditions at the rifle range. Large over­ head screens were installed near the firing point to keep the bullets in Blauvelt instead of raining down on South Nyack. But the new screens didn’t solve the problem, and rumor had it that the rifle range was cursed. Cursed or just not constructed proper­ ly, the range became an embarrassment ROTC regiments lined up for mess at the to the officials in charge, and they were Rifle Range, c. 1918. Knight Collection only too glad to hand over their “white elephant" to the Palisades Interstate during and immediately following World Park Commission. At that time—1913 War I, after which some members formed — the Blauvelt Rifle Range had been in a “Comeback Club" and obtained per­ operation less than three years. A mighty mission to build summer homes at Blue- costly and short-lived white elephant, fields. For several summers thereafter, to be sure! the rifle range was the scene of a gala "Fete Militaire" sponsored by the club, with the 1925 celebration featuring a costume ball in one of the camp buildings. Such peaceful pursuits all too soon reverted to more serious maneuvers as it became evident that the "War to End All Wars" wrasn’t. In 1930, the Army sent soldiers to Blauvelt for training (presumably without target-practice, since the problem of errant bullets had never been solved). And w'hen World Regiment of YWCA girls from New York War II broke out, Blauvelt again be­ City, on vacation at the range then called came a training ground—this time for Camp Bluefields, c. 1914-15. soldiers from nearby Camp Shanks —as During the next five years, from 1913 well as an air raid post. But eventually to 1918, the YWCA (Young Women’s the war clouds dispersed, the soldiers Christian Association) rented the land departed, and the deserted rifle range as a summer camp for New York City w^as subjected to the ravages of nature working girls, who paid $3.50 for a full ... and man. week’s vacation. It was a regimented vacation, however, and followed the mili­ tary theme of its predecessor. Campers were required to wear uniforms consist­ Today, tenacious tree roots have col­ ing of bloomers and middy blouses. They lapsed several sections of the tunnel slept in tents, and their daily activities system, while other natural forces have were signaled by bugle calls. been at work crumbling the 70-year-old Then in 1918, the property was turned concrete. into a state-run camp for the military Despite the graffiti, the ruins of the training of young men between ages of old rifle range are still fun to explore, 16 and 19. ROTC units used the site though care should be taken especially

8 in the shadowy tunnels, whose cracked Behind a stand of large fir trees on the floors are littered with debris. Ironically, left are the ruins of the huge mess hall the purpose of these tunnels was to pro­ and tower. 150 yards further on the trail, vide safe passage for National Guards­ an embankment on the left, fronting on men going from one target area to an­ a large clearing, is part of the promenade other. and firing line. The best preserved of Blauvelt’s tun­ nels is closest to the southern end of Tweed Boulevard N., near its junction with Clausland Mountain Road. Leave your car in one of the roadside turnoffs, and take either of the two downhill trails that lead west. A leisurely walk of about ten minutes will bring you to the 1,000 yard butts (target wall) and a tunnel which is built partly below and partly above ground, with ventilation slits along one wall. The other tunnel wall (the one facing what had been the firing area) understandably has no openings.

Rusted seat supports still stud the base of this target wall. As nearly as can be deter­ mined, targets attached to frames were raised above the walls, then lowered by target tenders who could sit on planks stretched across the supports. Pipes and openings in the walls connected the tenders by telephone for information.

The main entrance to the park remains the old road that begins at the juncture of Greenbush Road and Route 303 (op­ posite Leber Road) in Blauvelt. Park in the space provided opposite utility pole #100 and follow the paved road that curves up the about one-half mile to the plateau above. At the end of the pave­ ment near the top of the hill the trail Marianne and Richard Leese stand on the straightens in a northeasterly direction. solid roof of the 1 200-foot-long tunnel.

9 You may either walk on top of this At the end of the long tunnel, an observa- tunnel, alongside it or through it to what tion tower with connecting rooms and a was an observation tower. The only safe target wall at right angle to the tunnel, way to enter the tower is by walking N/ through the tunnel—a distance of about 1,200 feet.

From the observation tower, a high wall, the 600 yard butts, paralleled by a concrete walkway, leads to another tunnel set at a right angle to the wall at its far end. On what was the lee side of each target wall can be found square concrete buildings, which were probably used to store targets and other para­ phernalia. If you keep following along the out­ side of the walls, you will come to a crumbling concrete stairway leading to an underpass at the western end of the complex. Here, target walls are smaller, both in height and length, and have small buildings at one end, buildings nearly hidden in summer by the rich flora of Inside view of one of the debris_£illed tun. Blauvelt, which includes luscious black- nels, favorite adventure areas of children berry bushes and a profusion of golden and adults since abandoned more than 70 touch-me-nots. years ago.

10 Pause here for a few silent moments For Blauvelt has come full circle: from and you will be rewarded by the sight birdsong to bullets and back to birdsong and sound of several kinds of birds—a once more. With luck, it will ever remain fitting finale to your walk through time. so. 4

Though defaced by graffiti, the old Blauvelt Rifle Range still offers an intriguing ex­ perience, so much so that author Pa­ tricia Edwards Clyne (seen here at the entrance to the best-preserved tun­ nel) used it as the setting for her re­ cent book for young readers, The Curse of Camp Gray Owl. Clyne Collection

This article was adapted from one by Patricia Edwards Clyne entitled "From Bullets to Birdsong" that appeared in Hudson Valley in March 1983. Her articles on lower Hudson Valley history appear frequently in that magazine. She is the author of seven books. In researching the history of Blauvelt State Park, Mrs. Clyne was generously aided by Madeline J. Douet, Director of Archives for the New York City YWCA; Donald B. Stewart, Deputy Manager of the Palisades Interstate Park Commission; Ken Krai of Nyack, and The Historical Society of Rockland County.

MEMORIAL GIFT FUNDING SOUTH OF THE MOUNTAINS: The production costs of 5ouf/i of the Mountains have been funded over the years, often as a memorial gift for a departed loved one, by the generosity of organizations, corporations, companies and individ­ uals. The names of donors can be listed or remain anonymous according to one's wishes.

11 WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

July 1, 1985— September 30, 1985

Antioch — Dominican Convent Dr. & Mrs. Fletcher Johnson Julie Ann Arnold Victoria & Garry Johnson Dr. & Mrs. Shepard Aronson Marvin & Carol Lachman Mr. & Mrs. Arnold F. Beck Jane Landfield Alayne S. Berman Tobey Liu & J. Leal Bill Binetti Mr. & Mrs. Walter J. Luther Dorothy C. Booth Diana McCarthy Gabriele Borchers William D. McEachron Jack D. Boswell Colleen McMahon Mr. & Mrs. Francis A.Broderick Mrs. Edmund Mack Charles J. Calotta Wendy MacRobbie Marian Casella Cathy Mansell Pamela & Dennis Chandra Judge Arthur Markewich Mr. & Mrs. Jack Clouser Howard H. Marr Sylvia & Marvin Cohen Wanda & Tom Nash Lisa D’Ascoli Janet H. Nolan Kathleen DeGraw Helen Ostrowski Lynn DiGiacomo Andrew M. Peters Barbara & Jack Driver Lillian Pine Mr. & Mrs. Richard A. Gardineer D. E. Ryan Anne Cooler Michael Seife Paul Grzybowski Edward J. Serven Carrie May Hanke Peter & Cassie Strasser Ralph Haring Janet G. Straut Robert E. Havercamp Val Swartwout Eugene Heideman George J. Thiry, Sr. Rochelle Hoff Dr. & Mrs. Hurst Thomas Paul Hultberg Marjorye Travis Grace Hunter Louise M. Van Tassel William B. Hunter Lynne & Len Winkler Elva James-Leamy Fred C. Wood.

COMMUNITY ROOM: Inquiries concerning use of this room may be sent to the Historical Society of Rockland County, Box 495, New City, N.Y. 10956, or phone (914)634-9629.

12 The Haring Homestead (La Capannina Inn)

by Howard I. Durie

The Pascack Brook, rather a modest was one of the main reasons for the es­ stream under ordinary circumstances, tablishment of a permanent residence meanders in a general southerly direc­ and business at the location of the present tion from a birthplace west of the old restaurant. The first operator who gazed King’s Road (now Route 45), about a upon the falls and its flow of water with half mile south of the English Church in milling in mind could readily see that the New Hempstead area of Rockland here were unfailing water power and an County. Bearing an Indian name origi­ advantageous building site. The supply nating centuries before white men ap­ produced a continual flow which never peared on the local scene, “Pascack” has ceased during the lifetime of the mill. steadfastly adhered to the stream and A short distance east of the restaurant the old road which follows its course. In the brook falls over a ledge of consider­ olden days it was also the name given to able height, perhaps the highest drop the locality which borders the brook and along the entire course. This made a has remained well-known to the present natural outlet for the mill pond formed time. In fact, what is now the Village of immediately to the north by raising and Spring Valley was called Pascack for a leveling the dam by a few feet. The short period after the railroad depot was channel still follows a natural glen below built at that location. Thus the Pascack the falls, shortly emerging at what was Valley in Bergen County cannot lay claim another early mill site. to all the ancient attachment of the name. This story, however, does not primarily The Kakiat Patent concern the Pascack Brook, only its association with the original occupancy The land here was part of a vast tract and buildings at “Upper Pascack,” now of over 35,000 acres granted in 1696 by the site of La Capannina Inn. Years ago the Province of New York to two enter­ the brook supplied the power for a num­ prising individuals of that time, Daniel ber of mills, mostly those for grinding Honan and Michael Hawdon. Called grain and sawing lumber, along its course “Kackyacteweke” by the Indians, the through Rockland County before join­ term was soon shortened and simplified ing the mightier Hackensack near Old to “Kakiat" by which it was thereafter Hook Road in Harrington Park, N.J. It known and perpetuated. Acquired solely is probable that the potential mill site for speculation, it was not until 1727

13 that subsequent owners of the southerly owned the property for only four years, half of the tract, lying now in both Rock­ a sawmill was erected prior to 1795 and land and Bergen Counties, subdivided the increased valuation at that time, it into large lots which were then sold covering a lesser amount of land plus to settlers. By this means the first the improvements, implies that he had permanent residents came into the area, not only increased the size of the house although it was some time before all of but established the mill business as well. the lots were thus disposed of. In the interim those unsold were leased to The Haring Family tenants. On April 3, 1795, he sold 63l/2 acres of land “together with all improvements, Tenant Farmers houses, buildings, mills, orchards, gar­ dens, meadows, etc.,” to Abraham Gar­ It was not until after the Revolutionary ret Haring of Harrington Township in War that lot 33, containing 314 acres Bergen County, for the sum of 700 located at “Pascack,” was sold by George pounds. The description of the property Ogilvie, one of the residuary heirs of the began “at a certain large rock laying by estate of Lancaster Symes, to Jacob Post, the west side of Pascack Brook a little Abraham Post, Jacob Halstead and John below or southerly from the saw mill." Halstead by deed made July 12, 1788 for This mill stood on the high west bank of a consideration of 785 pounds. The the brook, a short distance south of the purchasers thereupon made a division falls and continued in operation for the of the tract whereby the Halsteads took next century. the north half (on which the restaurant Abraham G. Haring lived in River now stands) and the Posts the south Vale at the time the move to Rockland half. Title to these were soon transferred (then part of Orange) was made. Al­ by further subdivisions. A tenant house though he was one of eight children, his had existed on the north part of the lot own family and those of subsequent previous to 1785 in which year it is re­ generations were smaller in comparison. corded that James Lewis was living He had only one son, Garret, and a there. It is not known when this building daughter who died unmarried. Garret, was erected, nor whether it might have similarly, also had one son and a daugh­ stood at the site of La Capannina Inn. It ter. His son, another Abraham G., had is probable, however, that one of the two sons, the Reverend Garret A. Haring Halsteads occupied it between 1788 and and Doctor John J. Haring. The farm 1791. These buldings, sometimes erected and mill thus remained in four successive by the tenant as part of the terms of the generations of this family, or for a period lease, were usually of frame construction of 111 years. In 1812 the first Abraham and modest in size. paid a tax of $3.82 covering his house, farm and mill which were valued at First Mill $1,194. Years ago most of the old families On April 25, 1791, John Halstead and from the adjacent areas of northern Sarah, his wife, sold 841/2 acres to John Bergen County and southern Rockland Yeury for a consideration of 397 pounds, County were related or connected by a valuation which would have included marriage. Hetty Haring, who was born land and buildings. Although Yeury in the restaurant building in 1805, mar-

14 The Haring sandstone farmhouse as it appeared in the 19th century. A small stone building in the rear probably housed a spring, an outkitchen and bake oven. Seybold Collection

ried Judge Albert J. Terhune of Hills­ At one period of its existence when dale in 1823. Hetty and Albert had no the two families living there required family and after he died in 1867 she re­ more room, a second and matching kit­ turned to live in her birthplace. The chen wing was added at the east end. bedroom she occupied on the first floor The land was generally rocky and farm­ was always called “Aunt Hetty’s” room. ing was limited to family consumption.

15 The Haring- Vreeland two- tier mill complex.

Three children and adults view the scene from the bridge to the east bank c. 1895. Seybold Coll.

Sheep were raised and the usual dairy on Middletown Road in Nanuet, a long cows kept, but the main enterprise was distance from home whether walking or the sawmill. In the south part of the riding. Neither one was destined to re­ building, apparatus for a gristmill, which main on the homestead farm. Although operated alternately from the same water Garret did live there after his marriage power, was installed. The wheel was a in 1851, he later took up the study of large overshot type situated below the theology and was licensed to preach by dam with the top about at the level of the True Reformed Church (the Seceders) the ground floor of the mill, fed by a in 1865. He was called to the South sluiceway which carried the water from Schraalenburgh Church, now in Bergen- the west end of the dam. Over the wheel field, in 1869 and remained there until was built a small extension to the mill, 1906. His brother chose medicine as a resting on tall supports of two stories in profession and practiced a long number height which reached to the bottom of of years in Bergen County with Tenafly the glen. In later years when the sawmill as his place of residence. operations were at their peak, narrow After the Haring brothers left the farm, gauge tracks were laid from the road to the property was rented for a number of the mill along the south side of the home­ years to, and occupied by the families of stead for the convenience of loading and John B. Zabriskie and John J. Vreeland transporting logs on cars into the build­ who had married two of the pastor’s ing. Both circular and vertical saws were daughters. The sawmill business was used in cutting the lumber. then known as “Vreeland’s Mill.” During some of this time Dominie Haring, on The property eventually descended to the middle two or three days of each Garret A. Haring and John J. Haring, week, walked from the parsonage in Ber- the only sons of Abraham G., who died genfield to River Edge to take the train in 1864. When these boys were growing to Pearl River and then rode out to the up they attended a school then located farm, using a horse and buggy which

16 had been left at Fisher's Livery Stable by one of the family who commuted by train to school in New York. After taking care of some of the farm work, the dominie returned by the same means of travel so that the horse and buggy were back at Fisher’s in time for the student’s ride back to the farm.

Farm Sold to Martens The homestead, considerably altered and In 1901, Doctor John J. Haring sold enlarged, became known as Martens Falls Inn during the long ownership by the his interest in the family property to his Martens tamily in the first half of this brother and in March 1906, the latter century. sold homestead, mill and 68 acres of land to Peter Martens. The sawmill had dairy, they added a new dining area at been rented, but operations had ceased the east end of the homestead and started previous to the sale as the age of the the first restaurant. water-powered mill had come to an end. From 1965 through 1969 the restau­ For a time the building was used for a rant was operated as Pascack Inn. again leather business. It was finally taken bringing to activity the use of the ancient down and part of the lumber used in a Indian name. The following couple of small house built to the south of the years brought a change of ownership, site. A dormer was constructed in the interior renovations to the dining room, attic roof of the homestead to provide and the name Ye Old Andirons Inn. additional rooms for a boarding house Siding and beams from an old Pennsyl­ business, and the mill pond was then vania barn were used to create a rustic used for boating. Besides operating a atmosphere to dining room and bar. For

17 a time it was known as the Homestead as a young boy he was afraid to go alone Inn. The present owner continues the near the cave because of a family story business under the name La Capannina that a pair of black bears hibernated and Inn. had cubs there two springs in a row. Whatever its origin and age, the present building incorporates most of the earlier farmhouse when it was truly a beautiful example of local Dutch sand­ stone architecture, having a large central portion with graceful gambrel roof un­ broken by dormers, flanked by kitchen wings at each end to make a long facade. The latter had stucco added to the front walls, painted white. At the rear of the original kitchen (west wing) and a few feet away stood a smaller sandstone out­ building of one story. Between this and the kitchen there was, it would appear, a covered walkway. At that time or later, The Bear's Den this building housed a spring and be­ cause an end chimney is apparent in the Alice Demarest (now 90 years of age) re­ photo, probably an outside kitchen and called as a young girl, visiting the farm, bake oven as well. After this was de­ then called Hemlock Falls. They started molished the present spring house was from Bergenfield early in the morning in built at the site. Sometime during the a huge horse-drawn wagon with seats 1890’s the homestead was enlarged and on all sides filled with friends and rela­ modernized, thereby changing much of tives. Her mother, Anna Naomi Haring its distinctive charm and ancient ap­ Demarest, loved to visit her sisters there pearance. The main central portion and where they had lots of good times on both kitchen wings were raised to a full many a picnic. second story in height with new roofs and windows. Some of the stone was covered with clapboard and a porch added along the entire front. The sand­ stone outbuilding was demolished at this time.

Hemlock Falls A footbridge was laid across the gorge from the mill to the east bank where a Dog Head Rock picnic grove was a popular pleasure spot in summer. On that side of the rocky Some distance east of the brook and a ledge, opposite the mill, a cave exists few hundred feet southeast of the bridge, which was called the “Bear's Den." At a a large natural glacial rock 10 feet high recent Haring descendants’ reunion at by 20 feet long was called “Dog Head the inn, Mrs. Russel Demarest remem­ Rock" because of a perfectly shaped bered her late husband telling her that natural formation. This was a well-

18 known local attraction, a photograph of buzzing of the giant saws, the old which appeared on postal cards in years Pascack still creates a roar as it drops past. A modem residential development over the dam and splashes through the has nearly obliterated this curiosity. glen below, as it always had and we hope Although the rumble of the turning always will. ^ wheel is no longer heard, nor the sharp

The falls on Pascack Brook at Vreeland's mill c. 1915. (1-r) Author Durie's aunt Margaret Campbell and Ida Hammond. Durie Collection

The reverend Garret A. Haring and Livinia Van Houten Haring c. 1900. Seybold Collection

Howard I Durie is the author of The Kakiat Patent in Bergen County, N.J., The Durie Family, and numerous articles on North Bergen and Rockland history.

19 Homelands Day, 1985. Left front, Polish dancers await their performance.

HOPPER HOUSE historical marker dedi­ cation, July 21, 1985. (1-r) Lawrence Heyl; Patricia Cropsey, Society President; Vir­ ginia Parkhurst, Nyack Village Historian; Eleanor Gibson, President of the Edward Hopper House in Nyack and J. Russell Drumm. ^

MONTEBELLO historical marker dedica­ tion, Oct. 6, 1985. (1-r) Craig Long, Ramapo Historian; Gary Goldberg, proprietor; Patricia Cropsey, Society President and Isabelle K. Saveli, Senior Historian. QUERIES

• David W. Lupton, from Fort Collins, CO would like information on the Nyack family of Julia Matilda LUPTON, who mar. Orlando M. BOGART. Julia d. 23 Dec. 1890 and is bur. at Oak Hill. Her daughter, Bouquette, was the wife of Alanson M. WILCOX. She d. 22 June 1924 and he d. 5 Jan. 1923. Both are bur. in Oak Hill Cemetery. • Pat Kerner, Suffem, N. Y. is searching for information on the family of Isaac VAN WART, b. 15 May 1820 at Nyack, d. 28 Mar. 1863, Tappan, mar. Maria DURYEA. Believe his parents to be John VAN WART and Jane ACKERMAN, but need proof. • Nancy P. Saunders of Saratoga Springs, N.Y. is seeking information about the families of Harry WOOD (b. Nov. 15, 1792) and Catherine SPRINGSTEAD (b. Feb. 13, 1901) and their possible connection with the JERSEY family. • Edna M. Merritt of Hollywood, Fla. is looking for information about George W. MERRITT, b. 1856 in Piermont, and his wife, Sara Emma Cole. • Alfred Conklin of Salisbury Mills, N.Y. would like information about the family of William CONKLIN and wife Mary. They had a son John Henry, bom in Haverstraw about 1866. He married Alma Nielson. • Robert C. Lydecker of Short Hills, N.J. is seeking information on the descendants of Albert A. LYDECKER (1791-1876) and his wife (m. 1812), Mary Ann Moore (1796-1854). They had children Rebecca Ann (1813), Hedgley M. (1815), Anthony W. (1818), Abraham B. (1821), Isaac S. (1825), George DuB. (1827) and John W. (1829). Other Lydecker names and source material desired. • Gordon Demarest of Rhinebeck, N.Y. would like information about the family of Celia Melissa STEVENS. She married Matthew DEMAREST and they had four sons and three daughters. The youngest son was Elmer. Elmer and his family lived in Nanuet on part of the Demarest property. • Elizabeth S. Jones of Ruffin, NC is seeking parentage of Daniel BLAUVELT, b. ca. 1792-94, d. Apr. 28, 1859. Listed as a stone mason in 1850 census. Mar. Hannah Marie GOETSCHIUS (BELL) (1790-1861) daughter of Abraham and Rachel Feister GOETSCHIUS. Both are buried in Mount Repose Cemetery, Haverstraw, N.Y. and lived near Staggs Comer, Centenary. • Alma Furman Kieny of Alexandria, VA is seeking information on Benjamin FURMAN, and his son Isaac. They lived in Haverstraw in late 1700s—early 1800s.

Please address all responses: c/o The Historical Society of Rockland County.

21 IN MEMORIAM

Comdr. Clarence M. Anderson H. Pierson Mapes Edward G. Dulla Linda L. Miller Herbert G. Gutman James E. Serven Sara G. (Molly) Hartman James W. Stevenson Marguerite Heidgerd Hartwell Dr. John Robert Dunham Laird

DR. J. R. DUNHAM LAIRD (12/13/97-9/27/85), born in Haverstraw, lived in the county until about a year ago when he moved to Allendale, N.J. Dr. Laird .was a charter member of this society, serving as a trustee from 1965 to 1973. His picture appeared in SM/13:2. H. PIERSON MAPES (4/3/07 — 9/18/85), whose forebearers were intimately con­ nected with Rockland history and development in the Ramapo Clove area, had always been a staunch supporter of the Historical Society, including contributions to sponsor the Pierson Room and donations of Pierson memorabilia and records from the Ramapo Iron Works. The legendary “Hessian Boots,” pictured and described in SM/23:1 and used in several exhibits, are now featured in the Pierson display. His article, "The Ballad of Claudius Smith," about the notorious bandit and cow­ boy of the Ramapos, appeared in SM/9:1. LINDA L. MILLER (11/1/44—8/7/85), daughter of Dean and Janet Seifried, was a graduate of Clarkstown High School in 1962 and of Alleghany College. She served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Brazil, held masters degrees in public health and psychiatric nursing and at the time of her death, was nursing educator at San Jose State University in California. JAMES E. SERVEN (12/20/99—9/2/85), a nativeof Pearl River, moved westward to Arizona and California about fifty years ago, finally settling in Tucson, Arizona in 1960. He was the author of several books on firearms and the Old West, including two articles for our Society: “The Powder-Horn (SM/2:1) and “The Fremont House in 1 ucson (SM/16:1). His picture appeared in SM/17:3 when he won his second Western Heritage Wrangler Award. JAMES W. STEVENSON (3/27/28—9/24/85), a Blauvelt resident, was the director of the Newburgh Free Library, which serves as a central library for a network of 43 upstate libraries in the Ramapo Catskill System. He was director of the Suffern Free Library for one year in 1969. For many years Mr. Stevenson and his wife Joan volunteered their talents to the Historical Society.

22 HISTORY CENTER-20 Zukor Road, New City —Open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday from 12 to 4 P.M.: Sunday from 2 to 5 P.M.; at special hours by phoning 634- 9629. Coming events, unless otherwise noted, will be held at the History Center. Memberships, which include mailed copies oi SOUTH OF THE MOUNTAINS, are $15 (family), $10 (individual), $7.50 (senior), $5 (student).

GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY: The first meeting of the Genealogical Society of Rockland County was held on October 22, at the History Center Museum. Guest speaker for the evening was William A. Owens, who spoke about his methods of searching primary sources for genealogical data. As a step toward organization of the group, an Aims and Goals Committee was formed, as well as a By-Laws Committee. It was also decided that the Genealogical Society will be affiliated with the Historical Society and future meetings held at the History Center.

HISTORIC SLIDES: A carousel of 35mm slides of historical sites in and near the county is available at the History Center to elementary schools and youth organiza­ tions. Designed for children, it requires no narration, although a script has been prepared for those who wish to add comments during the presentation. HISTORIC SLIDES for organized group viewing by an older audience are also available. The continuous-loop carousel contains captions and identifies each picture as it is shown. No narration is necessary. Script is available. Call the History Center for information and reservations (914) 634-9629.

SHANKS SLIDE TALK: A newly prepared slide presentation on Camp Shanks and Shanks Village is available for organized groups. Scott Webber, Shanks his­ torian and author of a forthcoming book on the subject, will narrate the program. For further information, call (914) 942-2254.

RECENT ACCESSIONS______American flag, 48 star, first to be flown over Veteran’s Cemetery, Viola, when dedi­ cated on November 10, 1960, given by Frank Schnell, Sr. in memory of his brother, PFC Harold Schnell, killed in action in WW II, the flag draping the casket upon its return to the U.S. Three town record books, 1866-69, containing real estate tax records for the Town of Haverstraw, donated by Mr. & Mrs. Francis Finnerty.

CORRECTION: SM/29:3, July-Sept. 1985, page 2 should read, “COVER PICTURE: William Flynn..." and page 3, 1st paragraph, 2nd column should read, “In the meantime William Flynn married Mary Ann Murphy, and his son John H. Flynn married Sarah McCafferty, Mr. Snedecker’s housemaid.”

23 COMING EVENTS

EXHIBITS______Dec. 1-Jan. 26 —“Winter Festival and 10th Annual Doll House Exhibit” — doll houses, rooms, toys, dolls, and games for the Holiday Sea­ son. Joan and John Bruckler, chairmen. Feb. 9-Mar. 9 —“Artist’s Eye on Historical Rockland” — paintings and draw­ ings of historic sites in contemporary Rockland. Irving Sun­ shine, guest curator. Feb. 9-Mar. 2 —“Photographs of the State Capitol” —a selection of award­ winning photos of the Capitol Building in Albany. Sponsored by Representative Robert Connor and Senator Eugene Levy.

PROGRAMS. Dec. 7, Sat. —St. Nicholas Festival. Traditional Dutch Christmas for chil­ li, 12, 1, 2, 3 dren. Reservations required. Dec. 15, Sun. —Candlelight Tour of the Jacob Blauvelt House. 6-8 p.m. Feb. 13, Thurs. —“You Know I Can’t Hear You When the Water’s Running”— 8 p.m. Annual Theater Benefit at Antrim Playhouse. Apr. 7, Mon. —Annual Meeting. Election of officers and slide show of the 8:30 p.m. year’s events. May 4, Sun. —27th Annual Outdoor Antique Show. 10-5 p.m. Marge Carruthers, manager.

ONGOING. Sat. -Exploring the Dutch Larder. Experience Dutch open-hearth 3 p.m. cooking. $3 per person. Reservations necessary. Sun. Tours of the Blauvelt House and Dutch Colonial Food Demon­ 2-5 p.m. strations.

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