Ednesday Through Sunday, Executive’S 12Pm – 4Pm Admission Is FREE; Historic Donations Greatly Appreciated

ON VIEW NOW! NEW EXHIBITION at the HSRC in New City: 24th Annual LINCOLN and NEWYORK

Now through Rockland County June 15, 2014 Wednesday through Sunday, Executive’s 12pm – 4pm Admission is FREE; Historic donations greatly appreciated. Preservation This panel exhibition from the New-York Historical Society probes the myths and controversies around Abraham Lincoln. Original research explores New Merit Awards York’s influence on the Civil War, the impact of emancipation, and the promotion of Lincoln’s persona as he evolved from an obscure Illinois politician to a national martyr. Visitors who thinkthey know everything about Lincoln will be startled to see so much that is new. Items from the HSRC’s permanent collection and on loan from other local history organizations will be displayed to complement this informative exhibition which has been made possible by a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities. ______RESERVE NOW … LINCOLN and NEWYORK auxiliary programs:

June 8, 2pm: Living History Presentation:“The Price of Freedom: Through the Eyes of Special Guestand Keynote Speaker: Nyack's Daniel Ullman. General Ullmanwas instrumental in New York’s early response to Lincoln’s first two calls for volunteers in 1861 and 1862 and was put in charge of one regiment of Rockland County Executive the Eagle Brigade, the 78th NY Volunteer Infantry. After serving with distinction and even surviving a bout with typhoid fever and the infamous Libby Prison, Ullman was later instrumental Ed Day in convincing Lincoln that the time was right to allow Men of Color to serve for the Stars and Stripes. He was subsequently put in charge ofseveral of the first regiments of the US Colored Troops, the Corps d’Afrique, serving primarily atPort Hudson within the Department of the Gulf. Spring Valley High School Teacher, Doug Careywill bring Ullman back to life as he shares Ullman’s political philosophy, decisions and actions with the audience. May 18, 2014

June 12, 7:15 pm: Lecture by Brian Jennings Civil- War, Politics, and Peace: Disputes on Rockland's Homefront -A discussion of the 1860 Presidential election as well as Rockland's The Jacob Blauvelt Historic Site response to the firing on Fort Sumter. Jenningswill discuss the early company's formed in the County, the response of citizen's to support their soldiers as well asthe controversial Peace conventions in Rockland largely through the coverage of events in local newspapers as well as by analyzing enlistment records and census documents.

THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF ROCKLAND COUNTY 20 Zukor Road, New City, NY 10956 845.634.9629 Phone THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF ROCKLAND COUNTY www.RocklandHistory.org 20 Zukor Road, New City, NY 10956 845.634.9629 Phone 845.634.8690 Fax www.RocklandHistory.org E-mail: [email protected]

THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF ROCKLAND COUNTY 20 Zukor Road, New City, NY 10956 (845)634-9629 www.RocklandHistory.org -Notes-

Board of Trustees Larry Singer,President; Dorice Madronero,1st Vice President; Veronia DeMeo Boesch,nd 2 Vice President; Donald R. Karlewicz,Treasurer; Caroline Tapley,Secretary; Joni Anger; Doug Carey; Madeline Muller; Joseph Natale; Thomas J. O’Reilly; H. Barry Robins; Hon.William E. Sherwood; Jeff Weinberger, Esq.; Gordon Wren, Clare Bowes Sheridan, Ex-Officio, Immediate Past President

Staff Susan Curry Deeks, Executive Director Mary Anne Hill, Visitor Services Manager Patrice Brenner, Bookkeeper Robert Carroll, Caretaker Marjorie Johnson, Editor, South of the Mountains Marianne B. Leese, Senior Historian

We thank you for your continued support of your historical society! ______

In addition to contributions from members, friends and the business community, the Historical Society of Rockland County receives funding from the County of Rockland, the New York State Council on the Arts, and the Town of Ramapo.

May 2014 ler National Historic Preservation Month

New Age of Preservation: Embark, Inspire, ageEng THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF ROCKLAND COUNTY

Please consider becoming a member of The Historical Society of Rockland County! Beyond the sheer knowledge that you are helping to preserve Rockland County's legacy“History of land and culture, is you a will guide also receive the followingto navigation tangible member benefits -- as a member of the Historical Society of Rockland County: in perilous times. x Quarterly mailings of South of the Mountains -- the only journal of Rockland County history that has been published continuously since 1957.

x SeasonalHistory mailings of isour Calendarwho of Eventswe &/orare newsletters. and

x 10% discount on HSRC publications, maps and on items in our Museum whyShop. we are the way we are. ” 4pm Arrival, Enjoy Passed hors d’oeuvres and beverages, visit x Reduced fees― for DavidHSRC programs McCullough and services. the exhibitionL INCOLN and NEWYORK, x Free admission to the Jacob Blauvelt House and to most of the HSRC tour the Jacob Blauvelt House, mingle with Museum's exhibitions. friends.

Fill in the information below and mail with your payment to The Historical Society of Rockand County. 5pm: Please be seated for Dinner Name:______o Welcome Remarks: Larry Singer, HSRC President o Upcoming Events: Susan Deeks, HSRC Executive Director Address: ______o Keynote Speaker: Ed Day, Rockland County Executive

City, State,Best Zip ______Wishes For A Successful Enjoy your meal!

Phone:High ______School History Conference 6pm: Dessert and Awards Presentation: Historic Preservation Email: ______2014 Merit Awards Committee

Individual: $40; Senior/Student $25; Family $50; The CenturianFamily $100; of John Blauvelt T. Fellow Grant, $250 Cuisine – Mimi’s Plate Rockland’sMy First check for $______is County enclosed Executive Tent - Kelly’s Canopies Flowers - Madeline Muller and Ann Vitale Credit Card # ______Expiration Date: ___/___ Lawn Trimming – Ray Botto

DON’T MISS OUR UPCOMING DAY TRIPS! Trips fill up quickly, reserve your spot today!

SATURDAY, JUNE 7 - “HISTORY IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD” HOUSES OF WORSHIP – RAMAPO Mimi’s Plate $69 per person; $64 per person for HSRC members The 2014 “History in Your Own Backyard”series has returned and will take place in the town of Ramapo. This year’s esseri has been made possible in part by a Beverages: generous contribution from the TownRamapo. of This trip will include stops at: Brick Church (1774/rebuilt 1856), Viola edUnit Methodist (1855), Ramapo Lutheran (known as Still or Sparkling Water, “Island Church” – 1720) and ookBr Chapel. The trip includes lunch at Rhodes North Tavern. Space is limited and pre-paid reservations are required. The June 7 trip is a registered Dr. Davies Farm Apple Cider Path through History event. House White Wine, House Red Wine SATURDAY, JUNE 21 - HISTORIC SITES OF ORANGETOWN $75 per person; $70 per person for HSRC members Passed hors d’oeuvres: Did you know there are more than 25 National Register locations in Orangetown, and more than 35 historic markers? From the story of Andre and Arnold the to early recording studio of Bruce Provencal chicken apple sausage inơ pu pastry w/ Springsteen, there is something foreveryone on this trip. Our guide will be Town Historian Mary Cardenas, and we will see famous houses, churches, and points of interest. The trip includes a stop mustard sauce, Mini blt’s onbrioche button, Apple blue at midday for a gourmet lunch at The ’76 House in Tappan. Lunch will include choicea salad, of entree, and dessert. cheese tarts, Zucchini & olive tapenade roll ups SATURDAY, JULY 12 - “Walk Through History” Ringwood Manor Dinner: with optional trip to Long Pond Ironworks $FREE( an admission fee of $3 per person will be chargedat Ringwood Manor, in addition to a parking fee of Roasted lemon picnic chicken. Mimi’s macaroni & $7 per car. Car pooling is encouraged. We suggest that guests bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at the Ringwood Manor Site).The focus of trip will be the newly restored and reopened cheese w/ roast tomato, Assorted seasonal roasted Ringwood Manor, the home of the Cooper-Hewitt family who made their 19th century fortune in iron mining and manufacturing. Although the operations were in vegetables, Basmati brown rice pilaf w/ green beans, New Jersey, Abram S. Hewitt was a Rockland County native: he was born and raised pea shoots & lemon in Haverstraw, and his mother was a member eof Gurnee th family. Participants who plan to end the day here can take advantage of the beautiful picnic areas at Ringwood State Park. Those who want to continue can proceed carby (approximately three miles)to Long Pond Ironworks State Park in Hewitt, New Jersey. Interior and outdoor space will be available to eat lunch there, and Dessert: anyone who is interested can join HSRC Executive Director Susan Deeks for an afternoon tour of the historic ironworkers' village and iron blast furnaces.There ( are no fees for parking or for museum Almond apple cake w/ cream cheese admission at Long Pond Ironworks, although donations are welcome). Due to limits on the size of tour groups at Ringwood Manor, registration will be capped at 30-35 people (first come, first frosting served) for this "Walk through History."

Assorted cookie platter Coơee & Tea service 2014 Special Commendations Thanks! Special thanks to the following friends who helped make this event possible* Joel Epstein

For his role as liaison to the Clarkstown Historic Board of Review and for his Underwriters efforts to assist civic and historic groups to educate and illustrate the need for historic The Sheridan Family preservation of town owned historic sites. Jan Davies

Benefactors Joni Anger Douglas Carey Michael Davidson Jan Davies Sisters of St. Dominic, Sparkill Marjorie Johnson Supervisor Alex Gromack

To commemorate the Marjorie Johnson 100th anniversary of the Dorice Madronero Sacred Heart Chapel and William E. Sherwood to congratulate the Sisters of St. Dominic for William S. Sheridan ongoing preservation of this important historic *list as of press time structure in Rockland County. settings and many interested residents who can transform the little hamlet of Keynote Speaker West Nyack into a charming and vibrant place to live.

Rockland County Executive In addition to his leadership role in Heritage of West Nyack, Bert Dahm serves as the unofficial historian of the Ed Day Hamlet of West Nyack and is a well-known leader in preservation activities related to West Nyack. Dahm’s advocacy on behalf of historic sites in West Rockland County Executive Ed Day was Nyack including the Jacob born in 1951 in a housing project in Vanderbilt House has been Brooklyn to Edwin and Jane Day. tireless and his ability to organize Growing up as the eldest of three children, the community is invaluable. Ed graduated from Brooklyn Technical Dahm was instrumental in the High School in 1968. He continued his restoration of Colonial education with an Associate’s Degree in Clarkstown, (Richard’s Corners Business Administration and Marketing a.k.a. Pye’s Corners) the from Kingsborough Community College in 1971, further pursuing his revitalization of West Nyack and education at Pace University while working full time in sales. Eight years the preservation of Clarkstown’s historic areas. later, he joined the New York Citylice Po Department. In 1983, Ed moved north to Rockland County with his wife, Jean. Dahm was a significant contributor to the “Weekend in Ed’s career with NYPD took him from Patrol Officer to Sergeant in 1985, West Nyack” in 2013 including where he oversaw one of the nation’s first Community Policing Units. He the Historical House Tour (a partnership between Heritage of West Nyack and earned the rank of Lieutenant in 1989 and Lieutenant-Commander of the HSRC) and Family Activity Day. Dahm’s contributions to the Historical Detectives in 1999, holding several key positions before serving as House Tour added significantly to the visitors’ experiences by pointing out Commanding Officer of two Detective Squads in the Bronx. important historic sites along the walking tour routes.

Ed retired from the NYPD in 2000, having earned 40 citations for Finally, Dahm is a frequent lecturer on local history, speaking on Rockland’s meritorious and conspicuous actions in the line of duty and receiving earliest industry including the uses of trap rock and the hazardous explosives numerous line-of-duty injuries. Heen th joined Phipps Houses Services, a which were used to mine this valuable mineral. The Dahm family owned and New York-based property managementcorporation as their Director of operated three Trap Rock quarries that later merged to form the New York Corporate Security. Trap Rock Corporation.

For his extraordinary efforts to preserve and share the history of Rockland In 2003, County Executive Day became Chief of Detectives of the County, we are delighted to present this award to Bert Dahm. Baltimore Police Department, where he held executive command responsibility for all detective operations, personnel and administrative matters within the entire 3,200 member force. He oversaw a budget in excess of $7 million and implemented a series of reforms, resulting in a 50%

increased success rate for violent crime investigations and reducing J. Herbert Dahm overtime expenditures by over 10%. He then moved back to the private sector, working as a Senior Security Consultant for American Security The Margaret B. and John R. Zehner Award for Historic Systems, Inc. Contribution County Executive Day is dedicated to the community, both in and out of politics. He's volunteered as a youthbaseball, basketball, and football coach The Margaret B. and John R. Zehner AwardHistoric for Preservation: For contributions to the since the early 1990's. Seeing a need to better unite and represent his local county's history, and for underscoring the valuehistoric of preservation to the community (usually community, he reconstituted and served as president of the Little Tor nominated by the Historic Preservation Merit Awards Committee members). Neighborhood Association in 1997. Ed also grew involved in our schools, creating the PTA Child Personal SafetyCourse Pilot Project, a curriculum still in place today in the Clarkstown Central School District. He’s been Bert Dahm is a life-long resident of honored as a Lifetime Member of thePTA and served as co-president of West Nyack. Almost 10 years ago a the Clarkstown North Football Fourth Quarter Club. In 2003, his private committee of residents was dedication to the community was recognized when he earned the Rockland asked by Charles Holbrook,,then County Distinguished Service Award. Supervisor of the Town of Clarkstown, to assist in the design of projects to After having served as a volunteer on a variety of town committees, Ed enhance the appearance and livability of realized that he could better fix government from the inside. In 2005, he the little community of West announced a run for the County Legislature. Ed’s tireless efforts fighting Nyack. Former Town Supervisor for public safety, fiscal responsibility and a common sense approach to William Vines was appointed as chairman. Bert was a member of this government led to his election in November, 2005 and reelection in 2007 committee which consisted chiefly of and 2011, a clear endorsement of his lesstire efforts to actively represent his West Nyack residents who were already district and his fight for more responsible fiscal policy. concerned about the future of their hamlet and were committed to doing Running on the Republican and Preserve Rockland lines, he was elected their utmost to see that residents of Rockland’s third County Executive with 52% of the vote to his opponent’s West Nyack had input and more 46% in 2013, in an election that saw historically high voter turnout. importantly impact in making changes that were so necessary. In 2007, this committee was reorganized by Supervisor County Executive Day has been married to Jean for over 30 years. Ed and Alex Gromack as the West Nyack Hamlet Revitalization Committee. Over the Jean are the proud parents to two sons and have one grandson. years and after countless meetings, as the committee has persisted, Bert has participated, and it continues to thrive.

In 2012, Heritage of West Nyack, Ltd. was founded. The group was formed by members of the West Nyack Hamlet Revitalization Committee. This group recognized that there were many issues and opportunities for community benefit which extend beyond the physical reconstruction of the central hamlet. Heritage of West Nyack realizes we have a rich colonial heritage, beautiful oaks are particularly apt for the grounds because the beams of the 2014 DeWint House are made of white oak. Color is also important in the Historic Preservation plantings, and the flower beds are in bloom from spring though autumn with an array of bright hues including Merit Awards snowbells, tulips and other lovely flowers.

Committee In addition, the Joneses’ passion, their fascination with history is shared regularly to the many people who tour the site. They especially enjoy the children, and, as Harold says, he uses the “show and tell” method to introduce children to the arcane realities of life before the digital age.

Their involvement began long before theysettled into the DeWint House in 1991. Harold joined the Masons in 1967, wasappointed to the Grand Lodge Committee in 1970, and then became the Chairman of Buildings and Grounds. From 1972- Mary Cardenas, 76, Harold and Kathy were superintendents of the Mason Camp #7 for needy children on 80 acres in Tallman Park.

Michael Davidson, Harold and Kathy Joneses’ love ofstory, hi education, conservation, and preservation, and most importantly, rthei care, preservation and sharing of the Robert Masiello, DeWint House and Grounds make them deserving of this award.

Madeline Muller, Winston Perry,

Clare Sheridan and Ann Vitale

The History of the Rockland County Executive's Kathy& Harold Jones, stewards of the DeWint House: Historic Preservation Merit Awards Program

Preservation Leadership Award Since 1991, the Historical Society Rocklandof County has presented over Preservation Leadership: for individuals, groups, and 65 awards to public agencies, private individuals, community-based and government agencies that display outstanding religious organizations in recognition of their preservation efforts in the leadership or continuing contribution to the County. The Society also supports continued, critical action to help save preservation of historic resources in Rockland County Rockland County's environmentallysensitive areas and endangered architecture. Instituted to preserve the rich historical heritage of the County, The Joneses’ 22 years of stewardship of the the annual program celebrates eachMay with a declaration of "Rockland DeWint House and grounds at the George Washington Masonic Historic site is County Preservation Week" by the County Executive and this festive event. deserving of this important leadership award. Their stewardship begain in 1991, With a rapidly growing population of newcomers to the area, one challenge just as repairs to the roof of the DeWint has been to help the public understand the value of preservation as well as House were needed. These grew into a being involved in their community. Addressing this challenge, the HSRC’s major restoration project and that was Preservation Awards program has: followed by an addition to, and restoration of the Carriage House, and the creation the of present museum for which Harold designed the displays. Since that time,the Joneses have consistently been careful x awarded preservation efforts of individuals and groups stewards of what is arguably, RocklandCounty’s most important historic site. x increased awareness of our historic resources

With meticulous care, Harold and KathyJones are often seen mowing, planting, x helped local communities to recapture history and pride of place or overseeing the removal of fallen s.tree Like George Washington, Harold has a x advocated for the purchase of endangered sites for the public good passion for planting indigenous trees, especially those of historic value. The white x attempted to unite all five townships in the support of historic preservation

The awards, made by the Society for preservation efforts on homes, businesses, municipal locations, and structures both modest and grand, help to get out the word that it is in everyone's interest to restore and retain the richness of the past. The process is -fulfilling,self and it helps to unify and inspire a community.

For more information on the award process, or to find out how to nominate a deserving place or structure, visit www.RocklandHistory.org or contact the Historical Society of Rockland County at 845-634-9629 or [email protected].

Lucas Candies uses the same recipes today that have been used for generations and the store still remains Congratulations! in its original location. Nick Loucas has successfully continued the Lucas The Rockland County Executive's legacy, creating melt-in-your mouth, Historic Preservation Merit Award Recipients for 2014: rich chocolate candies at the original location, 6 Main Street in Haverstraw, New York, each and every day of the x J. Herbert Dahm:Margaret B. and John R. Zehner Award for year. Lucas Candies is the longest contributions to the county's history and for underscoring the running business in Haverstraw and value of historic preservation to the community. also one of the only chocolate manufacturing companies in New YorkState. The company is older than x Kathy and Harold Jones, stewards of the DeWint House: Hershey’s. Preservation Leadership Award for individuals, groups, and When you walk into The Lucas Candiesilding bu you truly feel transported back in government agencies that display outstanding leadership or time. Customers often drop in to see what an old fashioned candy shop looks like. continuing contribution to the preservation of historic The building dates to the latter part of the 19th century and still holds many of its resources in Rockland County unique features. The original multi colored tiled floor and tin ceiling are intact and in fine condition. In 1915, the firstevator el was installed, and has the honor of x Heritage of West Nyack: Preservation/Restoration Award being the first elevator in Haverstraw, NY. The elevator is still working to this day. for their preservation of Richard’s Corners, a.k.a. Pye’s The original cash register dating to 1915sits at the entrance to the candy store, and Corners in West Nyack also has been working since it was put in place almost 100 years ago. The original artwork tile in the display windows, and the granite stone on the outside of the structure also remain. x Suzanne Barclay & Walter Aurell: Preservation/Restoration Award for their restoration of the Aurell/Barclay House (a.k.a. Mabie House) in Orangeburg

x Walter Cain and Paulo Ribeiro: Rescue Award for saving the Heitman House, Piermont, from demolition

x Nick Loucas: Continuing Use Award for Lucas Candies in Haverstraw

The Special Commendations:

x Joel Epstein, Code Enforcement Officer, Town of Clarkstown

x Sisters of St. Dominic, Sparkill, upon the 100th anniversary of the Sacred Heart Chapel Nick Loucas: Heritage of West Nyack Preservation/Restoration Award theirfor restoration/preservation of Continuing Use Award for Lucas Candies in Haverstraw Richard’s Corners a.k.a.ye’s P Corners in West Nyack

Continuing Use: Preservation/Restoration: Preservation is the maintenance of the historic form, Suitable for well-preserved commercial, industrial civicand structures still used for original or similar appearance and materials of a property. Restorationis accurately recovering the form or details functions that have retained their architecturalgrity inte due to continued and sensitive maintenance over of a property and its setting as it appeareda atparticular period of time by removing non- the years. Possible examples include corner stores,diners, barber shops, restaurants, banks, homes, etc. historic modifications or replacingor reproducing missing earlier work.

Richard’s Corners, a.k.a. Pye’s Chocolate has been Corners, is among the most hand-crafted in this historically rich areas in our county. location since 1896! The This confluence of Strawtown, Old original company was Mill and Germonds Roads was a founded by G.L. Tsoukatos and as the major crossroads in early business grew, Tsoukatos Clarkstown. In fact, it is shown on persuaded his friend, the map of the area drawn by Robert Constatine Loucas, to Erskine, cartographer for George come to America to join Washington during the him in the early 1900’s. Constantine Loucas Revolutionary War. The corner, derives its name from noted sculptor Louis arrived in Haverstraw in Richard (1869 – 1940), who acquired the DeClark/Polhemus mill site and built 1908 and there began the the present home located on the southwest corner. Loucas family's chocolate making history. At the beginning, the shop was named G.L. Tsoukatos & Co. At the entrance to the shop, one will note the letter “T & The busy intersection is distinguished by a metal fence, beautiful stonework Co.” appearing in the mosaic tile - thiswas placed there by Mr. Tsoukatos. The business had always made chocolate,d anfor a time, included a soda fountain pillars and a large stone façade with a circular opening.This (opening held a fire offering ice cream delights. Margaret Struet wrote about her recollections of the gong – the earliest fire alarm in the community. A fire marshall would strike the gong – 1920’s. Struet recalls “savoring thee creamic and chocolates” that were served actually the “tire” of a steam locomotive here. It was in 1941, that Constantinecas Lu took over the business entirely and – to alert volunteers). These features changed the name to Lucas Candies. are among the first landmarks to greet visitors to West Nyack Today, Lucas Candies is operated bye thfourth generation of the Lucas family, coming from such areas as New with the day-to-day management overseen by Chocolatier, Nick Loucas, a great- great Nephew of Constantine Lucas (Nick’slast name is spelled differently, with City and Valley Cottage. an added ‘O’ because each brother chosea different spelling when they immigrated to the U.S. to maintain individuality). Sadly, the fence had fallen into disrepair. The metal had rusted, and several sections were cracked and This rescue is worthy of an award, because it preserves this Historic District, mangled. Small areas of the stone work and will help to insure that it will not be marred by condominiums or other also needed repair, although most of high density housing. The area is a beautiful reminder of how much history is this stonework, originally well- in lower Rockland County with building such as old Haddock’s Hall, more recently called the “silk mill” and now converted to apartments by the constructed, had resisted the ravages of Pellegrini family, the columned Ferdon Mansion, and two 18th century Dutch time. sandstone homes on the north side of Piermont Avenue (3 of these are listed on the National Register of Historic Places). Heritage of West Nyack spearheaded the effort to restore this fence and to “Some houses are important enough that they deserve to hold out against a repair the stonework. In addition to land shortage and the pressure for development — and this was one of raising the funds to embark on the them,” Cain says. “We look at it as the sister house to ours, (The Ferdon House).” project, they arranged with local artisans, and craftspersons to assist with the project. In consultation with Thanks to landscape update on the 1.25 acre property, this house offers a Walter Mosher (Rockland County Ironworks), and Master Stone Mason wonderful mix of woodsy privacy and in-town living, with a close walk to Michael Jamieson, Heritage of West Nyack obtained the help of Sal Capiello shops and restaurants. “Where else in the world can you be this close to (director of the BOCES auto body shop) to transform what had been an midtown Manhattan and still be in the woods?” Cain asks. “I like to say it’s eyesore into an aesthetically pleasing part of this historical crossroads. The first five minutes to Freelance,” Peter Kelly’s stylish restaurant in downtown Piermont. “And there’s a sidewalk.” section to be restored was Old Mill Road. Heritage of West Nyack plans to continue the project along Strawtown Road as well. The original part of the house was built in the Federal style “in the early 19th century, I would guess, or it could be older,” he says. A substantial addition In addition to the restoration went up in the 1870s, he thinks. “It’s sort of Italianate-ish, and Carpenter of the fence, Heritage of West Gothic-ish.” Nyack also restored the red Thank you to Mr. Cain water pump on the Northwest and to Mr. Ribeiro for Corner of the crossroads. rescuing this house, and Historically, this pump for preserving this provided welcome relief to Historic District. teamsters who moved northward carrying produce to Haverstraw from the farms to the south. After stopping at the West Nyack Library troughs for water, the drovers could continue to this pump for water. Unfortunately, this pump had rusted and fallen into disrepair. Heritage of West Nyack volunteers Walter Cain& Paulo Ribeiro: opened the well to find a perfectly constructed stone lined well, about 20 feet deep with fresh water, ready to serve a now departed clientele. A new pump, Rescue Award for saving the Heitman House, Piermont, from donated by William Dauksza of Barmore Pump Company was installed and demolition now stands on the corner as a reminder of the colorful past of this key corner of Rockland History. Rescue: For historic sites or structures rescuedfrom possible demolition and being reclaimed for further use. We are pleased to present this award to Heritage of West Nyack, Ltd. which

is succeeding in meeting its mission “…to preserve our historic elements, and to When this house came on the market a few years ago, Walter Cain and Paulo develop and promote an appreciation for the heritage of the hamlet of West Nyack. To Ribeiro, owners of the envision, seek community support for, and to bring about, projects of physical and cultural Ferdon House, located value by accessing public and private funds, programs, grants and donations. And to across the road, dreaded sponsor, publicize and present community events which will encourage public participation, what might come next. sense of community and appreciation for the hamlet ...”

“We had heard it was about to be bought by a developer and turned into multiple houses,” Cain says. Instead of waiting for the worst, they finally decided to buy it themselves. Then they would renovate it and put it back up for sale.

The house is located in The Rockland Road Bridge Historic District which was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011. This area includes the bridge, in front of this dwelling, which crosses the Sparkill Creek. This area is the heart of the oldest part of Piermont, where the village was actually formed nearly 300 years ago. It brings Rockland Road down from Tallman Mountain and across Ferdon Avenue and the creek to its “T” intersection at Piermont Avenue. Surrounding the bridge on all sides is the rest of the Historic District. The area is significant to the village and the region because of its unique location at the geographic break in the towering Palisades Ridge, which separates most of Rockland and Bergen Counties from the Hudson River below. The break allowed for the construction of the original Erie Railroad from Piermont to Dunkirk, which in turn led to the development of not only Rockland County but the entire nation.

Suzanne Barclay& Walter Aurell:: Preservation/Restoration Awardfor their restoration of the Aurell/Barclay House (a.k.a. Mabie House), 171 Kings Highway, Orangeburg

Preservation/Restoration: Preservation is the maintenance of the historic form, appearance and materials of a property. Restorationis accurately recovering the form or details of a property and its setting as it appeared at a particular period of time by removing non- historic modifications or replacingor reproducing missing earlier work.

The Kings Highway or Kings Road appears on colonial road records, land surveys and deeds. It appears as a main artery The Aurell of travel in the eastern House, circa 1880-1890 part of Rockland County. George H. Budke, the pre-eminent Rockland County Historian, identified this Historian Frank B. Green house as headquarters for General Steuben during a 1780 American Army described this ancient Encampment. He also noted that earlier, it had been used by the Mabie family. road that had already been in use for more than (SOTM Vol. 24, No. 1). two centuries by the white man who developed it The Barclay/Aurell House is from an Indian trail beautifully preserved and, thousands of years old. except for tastefully added modern kitchen and

bathrooms, looks just as it did Entering the county as Closter Road at Tappan, the highway follows its original originally. While the farm that ancient course as it does for most ofe th24 miles into Orange County. Numerous once surrounded it has been stone houses, pre-revolutionary structures, churches and burial grounds can be subdivided, enough of the viewed on the way. One of those structures is this charming house. original setting, including a pond, brook and wooded This dwelling is a pre-Revolutionary house, the older, stone portion ca. 1750, and hillside remain to give a feeling the newer wood portion ca. 1820s. Situated on Kings Highway it is one of many of the early landscape. historic houses along this historic roadway. Thank you to Suzanne Barclay and Walter Aurell for preserving this house.