DUTCHESS NEWS& Creative Living a Division of the Southern Dutchess News ~ Entirely Produced and Printed in Dutchess County Since 1959 ~

WEEKEND HAPPENINGS: Blues concert to benefit Safe Harbors ... p 11 Sirens of South Austin in Beacon ... p 14 Tom Jones to play Bardavon Gala ... p 16

FDR Library to host ‘The Art of War’ ... page 11 Harlem Quartet returns to Howland Center ... p 19 Red Hook fishing contest ... page 7 NORTHERN Volume 10, Issue 17 • April 25-May 1, 2018 • 50¢ DUTCHESS NEWS& Creative Living A division of The Southern Dutchess News ~ Entirely produced and printed in Dutchess County since 1959 ~ www.sdutchessnews.com

17th annual Autism Walk and Expo set Historic FDR photo emerges at Fairgrounds in massive traveling exhibit by Stacey van den Thoorn

The Hudson Valley Autism Society will hold its 17th annual Autism Walk and Expo on Sunday, April 29, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck. The event, sponsored in part by Anderson Center for Autism, was created to raise awareness and help raise funds for local programs; it’s also an opportunity for families affected by autism to learn more about the many available local services and programs. The event will feature children’s games, music, food and a community information tent. Autism affects 1 in every 68 children in the United States and is referred to as a spectrum disorder, as individuals with autism can have a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication in varying degrees of severity and symptoms. Autism affects people of all A portion of a 10-panel exhibit by the Dutchess County Historical Society is pictured above. Entitled, “Over Here: The Yet-to-be-told Stories of races, religions and economic levels. Dutchess County’s Men, Women and Children During the World War 1917-1919,” the massive exhibit will begin its run at the Wallace Center at the Those diagnosed with autism face a FDR site on May 1. Photo courtesy of Bill Jeffway lifetime of developmental disabilities that can cause significant social, com- by Curtis Schmidt The opening event is set for 6:30 p.m. on World War I. munication and behavioral difficulties. Tuesday, May 1, at the Wallace Center, fol- Program chairperson Melodye Moore However, with behavioral intervention An immense exhibit, which even lowing an annual DCHS meeting and spe- said historians from all over Dutchess programs and therapy, individuals can includes a never-before-published photo of cial presentation. To attend, RSVP at (845) County have contributed to the effort. experience significant improvements. Franklin D. Roosevelt, is being prepared 293-7711 or [email protected]. “The glass plate negatives form the The Hudson Valley Autism Society for a momentous unveiling by the members It is also a traveling exhibit. Once it backbone of the exhibit; however, we have is dedicated to helping people on the of the Dutchess County Historical Society leaves the Wallace Center in early June, it also included images from period newspa- autism spectrum and their families by (DCHS). will be available for display at town halls, pers, posters of the time, draft cards and a providing resources and connections Entitled “Over Here: The Yet-to-be-told libraries, schools and community centers wide range of graphics and illustrated with supportive and caring communi- Stories of Dutchess County’s Men, Women throughout the county. It will also be scenes,” she said. ties throughout Columbia, Dutchess, and Children During the World War 1917- displayed at the Dutchess County Fair, One of the most important artifacts to Greene, Orange, Putnam, Sullivan and 1919,” the 10-panel exhibit, taken largely Aug. 21-26. emerge in the search is the never-before Ulster counties. Its mission is “to pro- from more than 330 glass plate negatives, It’s all part of the DCHS’ salute entitled published photograph of then Assistant mote lifelong access and opportunities will be on display beginning on May 1 at “Year of the Veteran” in this, the 100th Secretary of the Navy Franklin Delano for people on the autism spectrum and the Wallace Center at the FDR site in Hyde anniversary year of the end of fighting in continued on page 3 Park. continued on page 2

INDEX Local Caddy restorer puts a shine

Community Calendar 9 Creative Living 11-20 on the American Dream Movie Review 12 That’s Italian! 13 by Don Rosendale Fifty years ago, Sherlock Nightlife 14 Cascella fled a revolution in his In the middle of a scrum of Exhibitions 15 native Argentina to come to Los news reporters and photogra- Angeles. He was then 37 with A&E Calendar 16 phers and even a cable news $20 in his pocket and a work Horoscopes 20 cameraman surrounding the car, ethic. He found employment as Crossword Puzzle 20 Frank Nicodemus was putting a an iron worker and watched his Sudoku 20 sticker on the oil intake and pennies. In 1963, when he felt Obituaries 23,25 Chris Semke doing a last check he’d “arrived,” Sherlock pur- Public Notices 29-30 for loose bolts on a Cadillac that chased what he saw as the sym- Classifieds 26-28 looked like one which just bol of success in this country: a rolled off the assembly line last Cadillac. He paid $9,000 for it, week. Only the tail fins gave which is about $70,000 in away that it was a 1963 today’s dollars. Fleetwood that had been lov- Sherlock had a son, ingly restored by Frank and Americo, born in California. Chris down to the last uphol- But Sherlock never gave up the Frank Nicodemus and Chris Semke of Castle Cadillac, left, join owner stery stitch. Fleetwood; it was a daily driver Americo Cascella with his restored 1963 Cadillac Fleetwood. Photo by Therein lies a tale. continued on page 5 Curtis Schmidt Historical exhibit continued from cover

Roosevelt. He is leading and marching in (5) Boys and Girls find roles: Children the September 1919 “Welcome Home” helped in farm cadet programs, shaping Parade on Main Street in Poughkeepsie. public opinion and raising funds. Moore said the photo is quite ironic as (6) Home Front Mobilization: There was Roosevelt is “marching briskly with pur- no war budget. Money was raised with lib- pose and pride two years before he was erty bond drives. Food and other items were stricken with polio.” She said it is further rationed and there were coal shortages – all ironic in that he was also “unknowingly to provide more for our soldiers. marching into an uncertain future. World (7) American Identity: It was about War I was hailed as the ‘War to end all being 100 percent American. There was wars’ and Roosevelt had no way of know- backlash against Eastern Europeans. ing that 20 years later, he would be leading Examples included not teaching German in the U.S. in World War II.” schools and music by Bach and Beethoven Each panel revolves around a different was not allowed. subject of World War I and conveys how (8) Welcome Home: Troops returned preparations for the war and the war itself from fighting in France and Belgium to a affected the lives of all Americans in a vari- country in transition. America did not sign ety of ways. the Treaty of Versailles and did not join the The exhibit, consisting of six-foot-high League of Nations. Americans fought to panels, begins with an introduction with a save democracy, but ironically turned to quote from President Woodrow Wilson: isolationism. “The Supreme Test of the nation has come. (9) Supreme Sacrifice: We take a look at We must all speak, act and serve together.” soldiers who lost their lives and were buried The following is a short synopsis of each in France. panel. (10) A Brief Shining Moment: This (2) War is declared on April 6, 1917: The panel features the historic photo of U.S. went from no mobilization to training Roosevelt. This was the “Great War” and and shipping soldiers overseas. More than no one anticipated World War II. 200 men from Dutchess County joined the Moore and Justin Kemp will start off the effort. program on May 1 at 6 p.m. with a presen- Above are two panels from the Dutchess (3) Women Respond: Women are called tation entitled, “Getting to Know My Great- County Historical Society’s exhibit on World into non-traditional roles, such as mechan- great-grandfather Fred: His Coming of Age War I with contributions by historians from all ics, ambulance drivers and working in fac- on a Pine Plains Farm via Honolulu.” It is across Dutchess County. Photos courtesy of tories and farms. the story of a young man from Pine Plains Bill Jeffway (4) Persons of Color: The men enlisted who heads off to fight in the Spanish- separately. The country was still segregat- American War. The talk is drawn from Fred ed. They served in units that were highly Knickerbocker’s letters home, his journals decorated, but they were not treated equal- and the photographs he took while sta- SEND US YOUR NEWS ly. They served with confidence and hoped tioned in Hawaii. County Historian William to return on equal footing, but that did not P. Tatum will put Knickerbocker’s personal [email protected] happen. experience in a larger historical context. Salisbury Bank announces Time to Shine Scholarship

Salisbury Bank announces its 2018 school; or be a graduate or GED recipient Annual Time to Shine Scholarship entering their first year of college. Program. The Bank created its Scholarship Applicants must be planning to enter an Program in 2009 to assist students who accredited college or university as a first have a proven financial need and who are year undergraduate student for the already making a difference in their com- 2018/2019 academic year. Applicants will munities. Multiple scholarships may be be evaluated according to a 100-point sys- awarded in the amount of $2,500.00 each to tem that takes into account financial need; assist eligible students seeking a college academic achievement; community serv- degree in a variety of programs. Ideal can- ice; volunteerism; and leadership. The top didates will be students of academi- scorers will also be interviewed by the cachievement, who possess a variety of Bank’s Scholarship Committee. interests and leadership experience, show The Scholarship Committee must consistent community involvement, and the receive completed applications and tran- desire to make their world a better place. scripts by 5 p.m. on May 8. For application Eligible students must be residents of packets and detailed information about the Litchfield, Berkshire, Columbia, Dutchess, scholarship program, visit the Bank’s web- Orange or Ulster counties, and must be cur- site at salisburybank.com/scholarshipor rently enrolled in a public high school, visit one of the Bank’s fourteen branch vocational, technical, or private school; be a locations. homeschool student affiliated with such a Roadwork closures on Route 376 announced

Motorists are advised that construction Drivers are asked to use caution when activities are expected to occur on the por- traveling through the work zone area and tion of Route 376 (Raymond Avenue) pay attention to all traffic control devices, between College Avenue and Main Campus including signs and flaggers. Drive (the main entrance to Vassar College) Motorists are reminded that fines are beginning Wednesday, April 25, and contin- doubled for speeding in a work zone. In ue through Wednesday, May 9, weather accordance with the Work Zone Safety Act permitting. of 2005, convictions of two or more speed- Trucks will not be permitted to drive on ing violations in a work zone could result in this portion of Route 376 beginning the suspension of an individual’s driver Monday, April 30, through Wednesday, license. May 9. A signed detour utilizing Grand For up-to-date travel information, call Avenue will be in place for all trucks. 511 or visit www.511NY.org. A full detour for all vehicles is currently Follow New York State DOT’s Hudson expected for Thursday, May 3, from 8:30 Valley Region on Twitter: @NYSDOTHV. a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Find NYSDOT on Facebook at Motorists should anticipate some facebook.com/NYSDOT. delays, and plan accordingly.

April 25-May 1, 2018 - NORTHERN DUTCHESS NEWS & Creative Living 3 Year of the Veteran 1917-1919 DCHS offers digital approach to exhibiting treasured items

Editor’s note: This is part of a year-long series year. of articles by town, village and city historians The 11-panel traveling exhibition is about the World War 1 era as Dutchess County called “Over Here, the Yet-to-be-told recognizes “The Year of the Veteran” with the Stories of Dutchess County’s Men, Women Dutchess County Historical Society. If you have and Children During the World War 1917 to information relating to the time around WWI in 1919.” Launched in May at the FDR Dutchess County, call (845) 471-1630 or visit Presidential Library, it is set to be presented dchsny.org. at towns across the county. A continually updated schedule for the locations is at by Bill Jeffway www.DCHSNY.org/overhere. As DCHS has reached out to county res- As part of the “2018: Year of the idents, either through program presenta- Veteran” initiative, the Dutchess County tions, or news articles like this, in return, Historical Society (DCHS) has launched residents have rewarded us by sharing what is in some ways a traditional exhibi- many, many personal items from the time. tion of photographs from the era, those of Some of those items are donated to extraordinary local photographer and DCHS, but the majority are not. Individuals World War I veteran Reuben Van Vlack. are able to offer a new category of gift to Top: Some of the many items that county residents have brought forward during the “2018: Year In most ways, however, the exhibition is DCHS, a “digital image gift.” This allows of the Veteran” campaign tell the stories of relatives and friends who served in WWI. The items fundamentally different, offering a “peo- DCHS to feature the digital image, but have been either donated to DCHS, or loaned to DCHS to copy and publish as digital images. ple’s exhibition” through the inclusion of allows the individual or family to retain Below: Combining a photo from the county collection with a photo from an individual can tell a items shared by county residents during the what might be a very personal object. more powerful story. The identity of the man in the photograph on the left from the DCHS collection of Van Vlack photos, was unknown. Once identified as Poughkeepsie resident Sebie Bostic, and shared with Bostic’s grandson, Larry Magill, in return DCHS received the digital image shown at right. As companion photos, they reflect the transition from relaxed civilian to sharp soldier. Left: Photographs provided by Rhinebeck resident Sharon Sherrod that her grandfather took during his service as a baker in WWI, contrast with the very formal and very public photos of Van Vlack, offering an informal, very personal look at day to day life and work. The tents in the photo were baker’s tents, thus the stove pipes.All photos courtesy of DCHS

´6WDU5DWHGµPHGLFDUHJRY There are instances, however, where the topic and by town, the 2018 DCHS owner wishes to donate the items outright Yearbook will feature of photo essay. so they can be professionally preserved and Dutchess County Clerk, Brad Kendall archived. An example of this is a set of his- and his team have made the display cases toric recruitment, bond drive and Red Cross on the ground floor of the County Office %URRNPHDGH posters in delicate condition. They, too, are Building (the DMV) available. As a result, digitally reproduced and are part of a per- DCHS is managing a rotating exhibition of 5HKDELOLWDWLRQ&HQWHU manent, or at least open-ended, exhibition contributions of primarily local objects, of items online at the DCHS website with some DCHS or county components.

16 NORTHERN DUTCHESS NEWS & Creative Living - July 4-10, 2018 Year of the Veteran 1917-1919 Amenia went above and beyond to rally behind cause

by Betsy Strauss

Editor’s note: This is part of a year-long series of articles by town, village and city historians about the World War 1 era as Dutchess County recognizes “The Year of the Veteran” with the Dutchess County Historical Society. The articles will appear every other week. If you have information relating to the time around WWI in Dutchess County, call (845) 471-1630 or visit dchsny.org.

When America entered the Great War in April 1917, Amenia responded wholeheart- edly to the call to arms. On April 18, 1917, the Amenia Home Guard was organized at a meeting called with less than a 24-hour notice. William B. Smith of Wassaic and Joel E. Spingarn of Amenia initiated the meeting. Fifty-six men Troutbeck estate. Spingarn organized, with Above: Welcome Home is a close-up of one responded, enrolling as charter members of the help of others in the community, the portion of a panoramic photo taken on the Home Guard. field day each year for five years, through Memorial Day 1919 in Amenia. Right: A photo Mr. Spingarn was at that time already a the summer of 1914, when the War broke of Joel E. Spingarn taken at the 1914 Amenia member of the Home Defense Committee out in Europe. Field Day. Below: An American Red Cross of Dutchess County, which had been hold- As for being a man of ideals, Mr. poster encouraging those back home to help ing daily meetings in Poughkeepsie. He Spingarn has been credited as one of the soldiers. Courtesy of the Amenia Historical explained to the Amenia men the plans of founders of the National Association for the Societyfc the Home Defense Committee, which Advancement of Colored People involved the taking of the census, the (NAACP). He and his brother Arthur of that year, 23 men were listed in the “Roll increase and conservation of food supply, Spingarn organized the first NAACP of Honor.” By the end of the War, a year and the defense of life and property. Conference at Troutbeck in 1916. later, 25 men were recorded as having Joel Spingarn was Amenia’s “mover and Of equal importance is the fact that Mrs. served among the U.S. troops. shaker” on many issues and was in the fore- Amy Spingarn was a strong supporter of On the home front, Red Cross chapters front of the preparedness movement. As a the Women’s Suffrage Movement, a move- were established during July 1917 in Fowler, Russel G. Fulton, Walter Reynolds. former professor at Columbia University ment which was at its peak during the same Amenia and in South Amenia (and later in Four died of illness, Leon Fink, Arthur and as the owner of the Harlem Valley decade as the War. She, too, was active as a Smithfield). The busy fingers of scores of Merritt, Frederick Reynolds, Thomas Times, Mr. Spingarn had contact with coun- speaker, a writer and a motivator. women began knitting hundreds of socks Sheehy. ty and national leaders, including men such It is not surprising that Joel Spingarn, and caps and began making yards and yards On Memorial Day 1919, a grand parade as Teddy Roosevelt and Secretary of the though already 42 years old, would sign on of bandaging material, among other items, of children, dressed in white and carrying Navy Franklin D. Roosevelt. He was well for the first class of the Reserve Officer for the boys “over there.” These women flowers and flags, processed with the informed on the crisis of the hour. Training Corps (ROTC), at Madison surely did Knit their Bit! townspeople to the cemeteries to honor the Parenthetically, it is also important to Barracks, NY. By August 1917, Amenia was “over the top” in its contri- fallen. Afterward, all the citizens, including note that Joel Spingarn was a man of ideas Mr. Spingarn had received a commission butions to the five Liberty Loan campaigns, Red Cross nurses, Civil War veterans, and ideals. His “Amenia Idea” was the as Major of Infantry and was ready for collecting above and beyond the quota. The returning soldiers and special speakers, Amenia Field Day, “an experiment in rural assignment. Yankee Trophy Train came through Amenia gathered at Fountain Square to hear the recreation,” which he sponsored during the Until he was sent overseas, and even for the Fourth Liberty Loan campaign, words “Welcome Home!” as well as words summer of 1910. At that time, he and his after the Armistice, Maj. Joel Spingarn con- exhibiting guns and other items captured of praise for those who served in the war, family were new residents at the historic tinued to give himself 100 percent toward from the Germans. A veteran Whippet tank and for those who sup- The Cause, by rallying for the was on display in Amenia for the Victory ported the war effort Liberty Loans, by encouraging Liberty Loan campaign in May 1919, once here at home. A Amenia residents to practice patri- more inspiring citizens to give. In total, for panoramic photo was otism and thrift, by boasting of the the War effort, Amenia subscribed to taken to commemorate accomplishments of the Red $475,000 worth of bonds. Additional funds the event. A close-up Cross and of the efforts made by were contributed through the Red Cross, the of one portion of the school children, as well as by giv- YMCA and other community organizations. photo is shown here. ing praise to our young men in The sad statistics at war’s end, however, uniform. included seven fallen warriors. Betsy Strauss is a member of the Amenia Another Amenia man who Three were killed in action, Charles A. Historical Society entered an early ROTC program, this one at Plattsburg, NY, was Roland S. Palmer, age 40. Mr. Palmer was a farmer and lawyer. He practiced law in both Amenia and New York City. In March 1917, Mr. Palmer auctioned off ORTHERN his cows and his farm equipment N before heading north to Plattsburg. Upon the completion of his training, First Lt. Palmer DUTCHESS NEWS was commissioned to the Ordnance Department and sta- LL LOCAL LL HE TIME tioned in France. A ~ A T In July 1917, 147 young men of Amenia were called by the fed- www.sdutchessnews.com eral draft board for examination for military service. By November

March 21-27, 2018 - NORTHERN DUTCHESS NEWS & Creative Living 23 Year of the Veteran 1917-1919 Camp Whitman in Beekman was training ground for WWI troops

by Thom Usher after construction of the camp had begun. problems, considering the thousands of organized. Most of the men who were sent to Camp men who passed through Camp Whitman. The folks from town provided picnics, Editor’s note: This is part of a year-long series Whitman came from New England and the Records indicate less than 1,000 charges for socials and band concerts; and local church of articles by town, village and city historians Eastern states. Troops from New York minor offenses and very few court-martials. organizations joined together to make about the World War 1 era as Dutchess County accounted for the largest number. The camp The most serious problem the camp faced everyone feel at home. On Sundays, as recognizes “The Year of the Veteran” with the was a melting pot of nationalities, and most was the influenza epidemic of 1918 and many as 500 soldiers went to local church Dutchess County Historical Society. If you have of the first troops were recent Irish immi- 1919. services and were invited to individual information relating to the time around WWI in grants. Few people had expected any black As we researched Camp Whitman, we households for dinner after. Dutchess County, call (845) 471-1630 or visit troops to be sent to camp, but came they did came across information jotted down in Of course, not everyone followed the dchsny.org. from New York City to be known as the bibles, letters and postcards from camp to rules. “Harlem Hell Fighters.” loved ones, giving us an inside view of life Investigating the different experiences In early 1916 The United States govern- Troops living in tents on wooden plat- at the camp. Some are funny or heartbreak- of the Beekman boys at camp on the home ment needed places to train large numbers forms had difficulties staying dry in the ing and others terrifying, but all are inform- front during the war, I’ve had more than my of troops, following President Wilson’s call spring rains, cool in the hot summer and ative. fair share of “wow” moments of encounter. for 17,000 National Guard troops to safe- warm in the crispy fall. The day started at 5:30 a.m., when the From tears to deeply moving, these World guard the border with Mexico, where fre- British and French personnel came to the bugler blew reveille, and ended at 11 p.m. War I notes are full of amazing and forgot- quent border raids were taking place during United States to help train the doughboys in with “Taps.” Weekends provided time for ten tales just waiting to be told. “The Button the Mexican Revolution. Camp Whitman in gas and trench warfare, but it was mostly strolling about town and recreation includ- War” is one of my favorite stories I’ve dis- Beekman, a short trip from New York City, marching, target practice and small unit ing baseball, football, boxing and volley- covered so far: was established on the State Industrial Farm movement. ball. In a letter from Peter Mulligan to his (prison farm) on Route 216, for the mobi- It was a remarkable achievement to During World War I, the government brother Patrick (Paddy) we learned of the lization training of New York State Troops. build the camp; even as soldiers were established a commission to aid dealings “Button War.” In February 1918 they began The camp also was in use during the First reporting for training, equipment became a between Army camps and nearby towns forming the 42nd Infantry “Rainbow” from World War. More than 500,000 troops were logjam. The first troops showed up and and cities, to develop a recreational morale National Guardsmen of 26 states. New trained at the camp, which was closed by trained with wooden rifles. There were program for the American military and to York’s contribution was the 165th Infantry, 1920. delays in receiving uniforms and boots. The act as a system of attack on the evils cus- previously known as the Fighting 69th Irish The 825-acre site was named for then- camp needed roads, sewage, barracks, mess tomarily associated with camps. Local busi- Regiment, totally made up of Irish immi- Gov. Charles Seymour Whitman. New halls, headquarters buildings, hospitals and nesses were checked to avoid price-goug- grants, and what vacancies they had were York State appropriated $500,000 for the a post office—all the things needed to func- ing and the transaction of liquor carefully continued on page 21 camp water and sewer systems, buildings, tion—and they needed to build them all at latrines, baths and more. once. The first troops arrived only six weeks There were, oddly, few disciplinary

Above: This photo shows Headquarters Hill at Camp Whitman in Beekman, where large numbers of troops were trained during World War I. Right: Private Harry Mallen and Private Paddy Mulligan of the all-Irish 69th Infantry were part of a rebellion known as The Button War, prompted by having to wear British uniforms in the early days of the mobilization. Below: Troops gargle salt water to avoid influenza, one of the biggest problems the camp faced in 1918-1919. Courtesy photos

June 20-26, 2018 - NORTHERN DUTCHESS NEWS & Creative Living 19 Year of the Veteran 1917-1919 Harlem Hellfighters trained in Beekman, went on to fight with French troops in WWI

by Thom Usher had something nobody else had: “a rhythm in close drill marching”; when they Editor’s note: This is part of a year-long series marched as a unit, they dazzled spectators. of articles by town, village and city historians They were so talented and entertaining that about the World War 1 era as Dutchess County at times it cut through some of the racism recognizes “The Year of the Veteran” with the that encircled them, and eventually won Dutchess County Historical Society. If you have them somewhat of a sense of peace at information relating to the time around WWI in camp. Dutchess County, call (845) 471-1630 or visit After Americans joined in the war, dchsny.org. Hayward persuaded the authorities to have the regiment pulled from guard duty in sites In 1916, a few leaders of New York City around the state and sent for advanced society, like public service commissioner training to South Carolina. When racial William Hayward and state assemblyman dealings produced tensions with the local Hamilton Fish, joined the effort to help residents and authorities, Hayward contact- organize the Colored 15th Infantry ed Washington, D.C. and was told the War Regiment. Bandleader James (Reese) Department had three ways to handle it: Europe became interested and entered as a Remove them and have them look like Private and trained in a machine gunner cowards; stay and have them arrested and unit. When interviewed by a reporter from possibly lynched; or deploy the unit over- State Assemblyman Hamilton Fish was one of the Daily Herald as to why a famous band- seas. The last course was chosen. Shipped the few leaders of New York society who joined leader like himself enlisted, he stated, “I to France, the division worked as steve- the effort to help organize the Colored 15th have been in New York for 16 years … I dores in a shipyard. Excluded from fighting Infantry Regiment, which trained at Camp believe this organization of negro men will through Gen. John J. Pershing, the French Whitman in the Town of Beekman. Right: Pvt. bring together the best of us for the com- recognized them and taught them; the unit Warner Jackson, who lived on Negro Hill in mon good. Our race will never sum up to was in the battle for 191 continuous days. Beekman, trained at Camp Whitman with the anything unless there is a solid group of The fighting ended when there was a lack 15th, which later was known as the Harlem determined men whose outlook is for of men capable of continuing. Hellfighters. Photos courtesy of DCHS progress in the community.” The Harlem Hellfighters, a National William Hayward, who secured the rank Guard regiment that was known by many of colonel, promoted the idea that Jim names: the 15th New York, the 369th in authority, and because of their race they to the Germans and never had a man cap- Europe as a band leader would be a tremen- Infantry and the Harlem Rattlers. But it’s a followed those orders to the letter or bore tured. dous help in using the band’s marching name that has lived for a hundred years the price. The French government honored them parades to recruit the African-American after the Great War. What a story, what a Pvt. Warner Jackson lived in Beekman with Medals of Valor, but the U.S. Military community. reversal for this unit! on Negro Hill and traveled for 18 months didn’t recognize them until many decades Jim Europe, now promoted to In its early days, it used poles instead of down to Harlem on weekends and in the later. Lieutenant, did his part and swelled the guns for training. It met opposition by local summer to train with the all-black 15th Please join us next time in reading more ranks of the 15th. Col. Hayward did his part white residents. Ready to sail out, the influ- National Guard for two years, with little of Pvt. Jackson as we research letters, post- by calling on friends at the NRA to donate ential members of the New York City help from the government. They drilled at cards and a personal Bible that his grand- rifles to his “Rifle Club” needed to enlist parade committee denied them the opportu- Camp Whitman and later on became the children have. and train the men, to officially bring them nity to march with other groups that were 369th regiment and nicknamed the Harlem Nearly one hundred years later, with up to Regiment regulations. preparing to ship out. The Hell Fighters Hellfighters. great pride, America says “Thank you for At Camp Whitman, where both The Irish returned as decorated heroes, with more When they shipped out to France the your service.” 69th New York and the 15th trained, Gen. medals than any other American unit, and following month, Pvt. Jackson and his unit John F. O’Ryan was forming the “Rainbow marched as victors in a parade in New York were totally expecting to be a part of a Thom Usher authored a book, “Beekman,” Division,” and Col. Hayward anticipated City which they shared with no other group. militant group; and instead they were published by Arcadia Publishing House. His the 15th could come to be part of it as well; Most that has been written about the thrown into service at train stations, background in writing the history of the town unfortunately, he was told directly that “the Harlem Hellfighters has been from the shipyards and supply units. The high- consisted of being a community activist, and color black is not in the rainbow.” viewpoint of newspapers and officers that ranking white officers did not feel that a over 10 years as a past town historian and Training at Camp Whitman had its prob- were in charge of them; but like everything black soldier had the intellect or nerve to president of the town’s historical society. lems; as they formed the Rainbow Division else, there’s another story, perhaps the side fight, so they were put in as support roles. from other states, those units brought their that needs to be told is the other side. From In fact, less than 10 percent of all African discrimination, fears and hatred of blacks notes and letters from Pvt. Warner Jackson Americans who served in the war actually with them. What set the 15th apart was its that we are now researching, maybe we will fought. active management of itself, their unsur- hear a different view. Pvt. Jackson and his buddies did actual- passed love of music and the lucky draw of Most of the young African Americans ly see the trenches and combat in Northern determined white officers who believed in serving were taken out of their secured con- France, but not with the American troops. them. trolling and closed element and put into ter- They were given over to the French army From the beginning, they had an uphill rifying situations. All their lives they were and were teamed up with a French buddy, battle of cruel discrimination, everyday abused and treated as third-class citizens, so one on one. They spent more time on the degradation and disappointments. But they they were used to taking orders from those front line than any American unit. They served 191 days, and they never lost ground

NORTHERN DUTCHESS NEWS & Creative Living 84 E. Main St., Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 845.297.3723 NEWS [email protected] A&E / Lifestyle [email protected] ADVERTISING [email protected] Gov. Charles Whitman and Gen. John F. O’Ryan inspect the troops at Camp Whitman in Beekman. Photo courtesy of DCHS July 18-24, 2018 - NORTHERN DUTCHESS NEWS & Creative Living 19 Year of the Veteran 1917-1919 The life and work of Hopewell Junction WWI Veteran Daniel Chase reflect shifts in the county

by Bill Jeffway and more, are also on display at name suggests, his work focused on horses www.DCHSNY.org/WWI-East-Fishkill, and horse equipment. One of the frequent Editor’s note: This is part of a year-long series courtesy of the East Fishkill Historical roles of a saddler in combat was to adjust a of articles by town, village and city historians Society and Dutchess County Historical horse saddle to accommodate the animal’s about the World War 1 era as Dutchess County Society. wasting state under the stress of battle, with recognizes “The Year of the Veteran” with the Chase was born in 1894 in Vermont. He too little food and water. Dutchess County Historical Society. If you have enlisted in the NY National Guard in June The April 1917 declaration of war information relating to the time around WWI in 1916 in Albany (100 miles west of his against Germany saw the United States fed- Dutchess County, call (845) 471-1630 or visit hometown), serving almost three years, eralize state national guard units, making dchsny.org. until April 1919. He was active as a veter- them part of the too-small US Army. an. In 1942 he was a founder and com- O’Ryan, and Chase, under the new federal- Moving from the care of horses to ord- mander of the Hopewell Junction post of ized name of the “27th Division” would go nance repair in a military role that spanned the Veterans of Foreign Wars. to Europe in the thick of the battles in Mexico, then Belgium and France in World Prior to this, Chase was an active mem- Belgium and France. O’Ryan was the War I; and moving from the declining rail- ber of the “27th Division Association,” Army’s youngest division commander road industry in his civilian life, like many reflecting his interest in the company of when he arrived in Europe. He was the only Dutchess County residents in the first half those who served under division command- National Guard general to remain in com- of the 20th century, Daniel H. Chase was er General Major John F. O’Ryan. One of mand in transition from state troop to feder- buoyed by IBM’s arrival in the 1940s. He the items in the exhibition is a ribbon he al troop command, through to the end of the became one of IBM’s earliest employees wore: It reads, “27th Division Association war. Daniel H. Chase. Below: Chase’s ribbon and enjoyed a successful career of almost of the World War Re-union, Saratoga, NY, Chase’s role changed from saddler to memorializing the 27th Division Association two decades. He lived most of his adult, September 27-28-29, 1929” (see photo). technical engineer, mobile ordnance repair. reunion is part of an exhibition on view in the post-service life in Hopewell Junction, the You’ll see the graphic on the divisions’ The symbol of the group was a bomb with County Office Building. Courtesy photos hometown of his wife Florence (Vermilya) badge is of the Orion star constellation, a fuse. On display (see photos) are a num- Chase, a long-time teacher in the playing on the name O’Ryan. ber of ways that image is used, including a Wappingers schools. O’Ryan became commander of the NY variety of designs used as uniform insignia. The current exhibition of many of National Guard in 1912. In 1916 he led his In September the division engaged in the Chase’s World War I personal effects in two troops in the battles of the Mexican Somme Offensive and provided a break in glass cases on the first floor of the County Expedition at the Mexican border. Chase’s the formidable “Hindenburg Line,” forcing Office Building on Market Street, military service and role in 1916 was as a the Germans to retreat. A major turning Poughkeepsie, offer very personal insights “saddler,” no doubt using skills he learned point leading to the Armistice on Nov. 11 of into his war service. Images of these items, growing up on a Vermont farm. As the that year. In his return to civilian life, Chase started out in railroad work, a “signalman.” Although Hopewell Junction was a major railroad hub, this was a period of decline for that industry. Fortunately for Chase, he was among the earliest IBM employees. He joined in 1944, just three years after IBM bought the old Delapenha Canning Factory and converted it into headquarters of the IBM Munitions Manufacturing Company). Objects, photos, information courtesy of IBM, East Fishkill Historical Society and Dutchess County Historical Society

Bill Jeffway is Executive Director of the Dutchess County Historical Society, a Trustee of Historic Red Hook and Town Board Liaison to the Milan Bicentennial Committee.

Gen. Maj. John F. O’Ryan. Photo by Reuben Van Vlack Aug. 29-Sept. 4, 2018 - NORTHERN DUTCHESS NEWS & Creative Living 19 Year of the Veteran 1917-1919 The long, hazy road to recognizing WWI Veterans from Town of Milan

Editor’s note: This is the first in a year-long any information.” series of articles by town, village and city histo- While the war was at its peak on May 18, rians about the World War 1 era as Dutchess 1918, the Poughkeepsie Eagle-News pub- County recognizes “The Year of The Veteran” lished two full pages (in small type) of all with the Dutchess County Historical Society. the men serving from Dutchess County. The articles will appear every other week. If Two were shown to be from Milan: John A. you have information relating to the time Cole and Gilbert Gubler - a different two around WWI in Dutchess County, call (845) than noted by the Milan “historian pro-tem.” 471-1630 or visit dchsny.org. A week later, the same paper ran a kind of “correction.” Someone local to Milan, by Bill Jeffway remaining anonymous, estimated that there were “ten boys” from Milan. In addition to The search to identify and recognize vet- Sharpe, Swartz, Cole and Gubler just men- erans of Milan who served in World War I tioned, an additional six individuals were exposes challenges that are typical to the mentioned: Philip Althiser, Dr. Lawrence E. general task, and a few that are particular to Cotter, Webster Bathrick, William the Town of Milan. Ostrander, Robert H Holsapple, and a per- The 1919 to 1924 state-wide effort by son of color “whose name we do not New York State Historian James Sullivan to know.” That person was David A. Clark. Ralph L Fulton (left) was born in the Fulton Farmhouse, Turkey Hill, Milan. Dr. Lawrence E. Cotter document and publish “New York’s Part in His enlistment papers and newspapers at was born in Milan on the Cotter Farm along what is today Route 199. Norton family photo and the World War” failed due to an uneven the time tie him to Milan where he was photo of the Dutchess County Historical Society response, at best. Particular to Milan, we working on the 80-acre Taylor farm on find people then tended to have a stronger what is North Road in Lafayetteville. He tional “World War” veterans who were born Rossi we are in good conversation with his identity tie to their hamlet than the town of was killed in service and is buried in outside of Milan, did not reside here at war- extended family on clarifying particulars. Milan. And hamlets like Rock City, Jackson France. time, but had prominent lives in Milan after Profiles of these veterans are evolving Corners and Lafayetteville spread across So what is our best understanding today? the war. All are buried locally (birthplace (emphasize evolving!) at the Dutchess adjacent towns, causing confusion. In addition to the list of “ten boys” pub- and burial shown in parenthesis). Brings the County Historical Website’s online World Furthermore, many draft-age men were lished in the 1918 newspaper, we can add total to 22. War I “local” pages at www.dchsny.org/ itinerant farm workers, moving from town six more: C. Edwin Battenfeld, William They are James Bromiley (New York WWI-Milan (not case-sensitive). to town. The haziness is part of the story. Briggs, Harold Case, Robert Lincoln City/Milan Union Cemetery). Conrad The official Milan response of June 22, Coons, Ralph Lydecker Fulton and Thomas Dittman, poultry farmer on Milan Hill A former Milan Town 1923 to NYS Historian Sullivan was Remsberger. This totals 16. Fulton is found Road (Poland/Rock City); Eugene Ohlson, Historian, Bill Jeffway is revealing. An un-named “local historian filed under Red Hook in NYS Archives, in elected Milan Town Assessor currently Milan Town pro-tem” replied to Sullivan’s request say- a file with a photo labeled “unidentified (Texas/Rhinebeck); Chelsey Thompson, Board member liaison ing, “Rowland Sharp[e] and Clarence photo.” It was not until the extended Fulton served in British Navy (Canada/Milan to the Milan Bicenten- Swartz are the only two I know of who family provided the photo to accompany Union); Jimmy Ward, popular dance hall nial Committee and went ... Our boys who went from Milan this article that the connection and clarifica- owner in Lafayetteville (Nevada/ Executive Director of don’t seem to know much about it, and I tion was made. Yeoman’s); Angelo Rossi, lived at Case’s the Dutchess County can’t find anyone who can give us much if Beyond that, there are at least six addi- Corners (Italy/Rhinecliff). In the case of Historical Society. SEND US YOUR EVENTS [email protected]

The Moviehouse needs a lift Go Fund Me campaign guests by moving films and events down- stairs on different days and show times for established to install those who find negotiating the stairs to the elevator in historic building second floor too difficult. With the installation of a new LULA commercial elevator they will be able to Robert and Carol Sadlon have operated offer all films and events, to all people, at The Moviehouse for almost four decades in all times. An elevator to the second floor a two-story 1903 historic Grange Hall that will also allow the creation of an accessible has been showing movies in the Village of restroom for those with disabilities, serving Millerton since 1915. The place has mor- the entire theater. phed from a boarded-up, single-screen Installing an elevator in an historic listed porno house in 1977 with a “For Sale due to building is no mean feat and not without the Lack of Customers” sign on the front expense, so the Sadlons have turned to the door, into a state-of-the-art, four-screen dig- public for help to raise the $140,850 need- ital theater which has become a regional ed to complete the project. With the com- destination point for entertainment, culture munity’s help the elevator construction and learning experiences. could start as early as this spring. Technology has always been the driving In gratitude, The Moviehouse is offering force in the growth and innovation of The gifts, depending on the level of commit- Moviehouse but, though their film equipment, to project donors. ment is state-of-the-art, for many years the Visit themoviehouselift.com for more Sadlons have been accommodating their information and to make a donation.

Feb. 7-13, 2018 - NORTHERN DUTCHESS NEWS & Creative Living 11 Year of the Veteran 1917-1919 One community’s sacrifice in the Great War

by Sean Klay A year later, John received his draft notice. On May 25, 1918, he reported with Editor’s note: This is part of a year-long series other young men to Millbrook, where he of articles by town, village and city historians enlisted into the U.S. Army. By June 30 about the World War 1 era as Dutchess County John, along with Millerton residents Santa recognizes “The Year of the Veteran” with the Anna Finkle, William G. Simmons and Dutchess County Historical Society. If you have George A. Evans, were on the troop ship information relating to the time around WWI in S.S. Mercury with other Dutchess County Dutchess County, call (845) 471-1630 or visit residents going to France. After three dchsny.org. months of training, John found himself assigned in October 1918 to the 320th 2017 marked the centennial of the start Infantry Regiment, part of the 80th of the United States’ involvement in what Division, as a replacement soldier. On the we know today as the First World War. night of Oct. 31, the 80th Division relieved Young men and women from Millerton had elements of the 82nd Division to take their a part to play in this global drama unfolding place on the line immediately adjacent to an ocean and a world away. Into this infer- the 2nd Division and the 4th Marine no stepped two men from Millerton: a U.S. Brigade. Marine, William J. McLaughlin Jr. and a The morning of Nov. 1, 1918 found US Army soldier, John Kyle Smith. Corp. McLaughlin and Pvt. Smith within William J. McLaughlin Jr. was born 10 miles of each other. At 0430 (4:30 a.m.), Aug. 21, 1888 to William and Mary American artillery opened on the German McLaughlin. Young William’s maternal positions. At 6:30 a.m., the infantry assault grandfather, Joseph McGhee, progenitor of began. For Corp. McLaughlin this experi- the McGhee family in Millerton, had emi- ence of “going over the top” was nothing The gavel and meeting bell of Legion Auxiliary Unit 178 of Millerton were presented by Agnus grated from Scotland in the 1850s. He new. For Pvt. John Smith it was his first Diegnan in memory of her brother William McLaughlin in 1934. Corp. McLaughlin was killed in served with the 150th NYV Infantry time. For both it would be their last. action Nov. 1, 1918, on the Meuse-Argonne front. Photo courtesy of Sean Klay Regiment, taking part in some of the What exactly happened to John, we may fiercest battles of the war, including never know. The only indication is a nota- After the war these men were not forgot- Gettysburg, Chattanooga, Look-out tion on his service record that he was killed ten. William’s sister Agnus kept his memo- Mountain, Atlanta and Sharman’s March to “North of St. Juvin.” ry alive as a part of American Legion the Sea. For William we have an account from a Auxiliary Unit 178 in Millerton. In 1934, as Little is known about William Jr.’s early letter written to his sister Agnus by Guy noted in the April 19, 1934 edition of the years. He was born in Jersey City, N.J., and Moore and was published on March 6, Harlem Valley Times, she presented a had an older sister Agnus. His mother Mary 1919 in the Millerton Telegram: “beautiful gavel and bell to the unit in died when William was 1 1/2 years old. The memory of her brother Corporal W. J. record is silent until 1916 when William, at Dear Mrs. Diegnan, Mclaughlin.” age 28, enlisted into the Marine Corps and Am writing you as a friend of your broth- The World War veterans of Tivoli and was initially assigned to the USS North er. We promised to write for each other. He Red Hook would not let the memory of Dakota. Things changed for William and was killed Nov. 1, at 6:30 a.m. just as he their native son pass away, naming their the nation on April 6, 1917 when Congress went over the top, on the Meuse and new Legion Post in his honor. declared war on Imperial Germany. Within Argonne front. He had just fired a machine a week he was reassigned to 77th Company gun barrage for the infantry to advance and Sean Klay is a 15-year member of the of the 6th Machine Gun Battalion, then then we started forward. He was leading us American Legion and has been the Historian of being formed at Quantico VA. The 6th through a storm of German shells when he American Legion Post 178 since 2007. He is a Machine Gun Battalion would constitute was hit. I was only 30 feet behind him and graduate of Westfield State University with a part of the 4th Marine Brigade, attached to when I got to him it was all over. B.A. in History. the US Army’s 2nd Division. By the end of So thank God he didn’t suffer and was the year, William with his brigade and the not mangled like so many. rest of 2nd Division would join Gen. John He had charge of my squad since the St. J. Pershing and the American Mihiel drive. After all he went through it SEND US YOUR EVENTS Expeditionary Force (AEF) in France. seems hard to think that there were but 10 From March 1918 onward, William days more, and this his fate. [email protected] spent the war on the front lines taking part I have a remembrance which he got in in every major battle and campaign the Chateau Thierry and will mail it to you. He AEF participated in. By October 1918 carried it till he went into the last drive, and William, now a corporal and responsible gave it to a teamster to keep for him but I for a machine gun squad, took part in what have it now. would prove to be the last great American His friend, offensive of the war, the Meuse-Argonne. Guy E. Moore John Kyle Smith was born to Frank and 77 Co., 6 Mach. Gun Batt. Mary Smith in Tivoli on Dec. 3, 1888, and U.S. Marine Corps was the oldest of six children. From the P.S. Please accept deepest regards from state and federal census records we know 77th Company. Mrs. Diegnan, many have that John went to school in Red Hook, fol- paid the price but none more brave than he. lowing which he worked to support his He was loved by his company. family. Sometime between 1910 and 1915 John moved to Millerton to live with his Following the war, the families of both Uncle Fredrick Smith, who owned a shoe William and John received correspondence Summer Sale! store on Main Street. from the War Department regarding the dis- Enjoy savings on your favorite brands This is where John was working in 1917 position of their loved ones’ remains. Corp. when the United States entered the Great William J. McLaughlin Jr. lies at rest in Dresses-Shorts-Capris-Shirts War. On June 5, 1917, John, along with Irondale Cemetery in Millerton. young men from all over the United States, John’s remains were returned to the reported to their local draft boards to regis- United States in July 1921. Where he was ter. On John’s draft registration card, it’s his finally laid to rest in Red Hook is now a uncle’s signature as the certifying official. mystery.

Aug. 1-7, 2018 - NORTHERN DUTCHESS NEWS & Creative Living 17 Year of the Veteran 1917-1919 Bathrick’s story underscores changing times ushered in by World War I

Editor’s note: This is part of a year-long series for New York City Fire Patrol No. 5 at 307 of articles by town, village and city historians West 121st Street in upper Manhattan. The about the World War 1 era as Dutchess County newspaper says that he drove the fire truck recognizes “The Year of the Veteran” with the for the patrol. Henry had moved in with Dutchess County Historical Society. If you have New York City Deputy Fire Chief John F. information relating to the time around WWI in King. Perhaps because of his youth and Dutchess County, call (845) 471-1630 or visit being so far from home, Chief King took dchsny.org. him under his wing. One can almost imagine the chief promising Henry’s I came upon the story of Henry Bathrick mother not to worry, they would take good quite accidentally, while pouring over old care of her boy. King’s son Hugh visited the local newspapers on the Fultonhistory.com Bathrick home in Mount Ross on at least website looking for information on Pine once occasion, as well. Plains during World War I for the Dutchess As required by law, Henry registered for County Year of the Veteran project. In The the draft on June 5, 1917. He was 22. On his Pine Plains Register of Thursday, Aug. 14, registration card he claimed an exemption 1919, there was a nice article about a to help run the family farm. According to homecoming celebration for the Pine Plains the local paper he had already enlisted in veterans being planned for September of New York’s Naval Militia in May. On July that year. 16, 1917 he enlisted in the NNV (National But then a headline about a fatal car Navy Volunteers), which allowed him to be crash caught my eye, and like most people, mobilized into the federal Naval Reserves. my morbid curiosity drew me to it. As I Henry did his training at Kingsland read on, I realized that the victim had been Point in North Tarrytown, Westchester one of our returned veterans. Henry County. During the spring target practice of Bathrick, age 24 and back from the war for the Atlantic fleet, Henry scored the record only a few months, had been killed in an for gun pointer of the entire fleet, an accom- automobile accident in New York City. plishment that his family must have been Like that of a fallen soldier, his was a life of very proud of since “expert gunner” was unfulfilled promise, his sudden death just as engraved on his gravestone. After his train- Pine Plains veteran Henry Bathrick heartbreaking and senseless. I was incredi- ing was completed, he was assigned to a is buried in Poughkeepsie Rural bly moved after reading about him and set transport convoy, the U.S.S. Seattle, Cemetery. Right: The detail of his out to learn more. Armored Cruiser No. 11. headstone shows him in his Navy The Bathricks were ordinary farmers The Seattle started out in June 1917 as uniform. During World War I, who had moved to the Mount Ross hamlet an escort for the first American convoy to Bathrick served on the cruiser in the Town of Pine Plains from the Town Europe and the flagship of Rear Admiral Seattle, pictured below in a news of Stanford sometime after Henry Melvin Albert Cleaves. On June 22 she encoun- clipping following its return from Bathrick was born in 1895. However, as it tered enemy submarines, but her helm France. Courtesy photos turns out, Henry Bathrick was no ordinary jammed. She sounded a warning whistle for farm boy, because at around the age of 20, the other ships in the formation, which was before entering the military, he got a job in followed by several tense moments, but the New York City as a fire patrolman. U-boats did not attack. It was later thought Henry’s car flipped twice, the Patrolmen were different from firemen in that the Seattle’s warning whistle had second time pinning him beneath that they didn’t work for the fire depart- scared them off. The remainder of her serv- it and killing him instantly. He ment, they worked in partnership with it. ice in the war was uneventful. was in his fire patrolman’s uni- Patrolmen were civilians underwritten by Henry Bathrick was relieved from active form at the time of the crash. His the insurance industry (in New York City duty in February 1919 and was probably two passengers and the other this was the New York Board of Fire anxious to get back to civilian life and his driver survived. Underwriters), working alongside firemen job with the fire patrol. In early August he Henry was given full military and taking orders from the commanding visited home and informed his folks he had honors at his funeral, with mem- officer of the fire department. While fire- bers of the 3rd Division Naval been transferred downtown, but we don’t adverse consequence of this new world men put out fires, a patrolman’s job was to Militia in attendance dressed in their regu- know if this was something he was happy order. One hundred years later, we are still prevent loss of life and property, especially lation blue uniforms and white hats. He was about or not. On Aug. 12, right after return- trying to come to terms with it. in commercial structures, but it could be ing to the city, he was involved in a fatal buried in Poughkeepsie Rural Cemetery. just as dangerous. It is said that World War I ushered in the head-on collision while touring around Dyan Wapnick has lived The New York City Fire Patrol was Manhattan with his fiancé and her friend in modern era, not just in terms of how wars organized in 1839, predating the paid New are fought but also with significant devel- most of her life in his new Overland car. According to the Dutchess County, growing York City Fire Department. Henry worked Aug. 13 article in The New York Herald, opments in the fields of technology and sci- ence. Society and culture were transformed, up in Hyde Park and mak- and new systems of government emerged ing Pine Plains her home while others perished. Like the young sol- for the last 30-plus years. diers who died from any of several She has a BA in history advances in deadly weaponry, including the from Clarion University first large-scale use of poison gas in and in 2009 she retired wartime, Henry’s death in an automobile after a 30-year career with IBM. She is a former accident, before the benefit of traffic laws president of the Little Nine Partners Historical and safety regulations we now take for Society in Pine Plains and has authored sever- granted, can perhaps be seen as an equally al publications on local history for the society.

May 16-22, 2018 - NORTHERN DUTCHESS NEWS & Creative Living 21 Year of the Veteran 1917-1919 Red Hook and the ‘War to End All Wars’

Editor’s note: This is part of a year-long series Bertram E. Lown, Harry A. Rhynders, of articles by town, village and city historians William M. Sistare Jr. and John K. Smith. about the World War 1 era as Dutchess County Chapman, of Barrytown, was the first- recognizes “The Year of the Veteran” with the ever American aviator to be killed in war. Dutchess County Historical Society. If you have At the war’s outbreak in August 1914, he information relating to the time around WWI in joined the French Foreign Legion, spent a Dutchess County, call (845) 471-1630 or visit year in the trenches, then transferred to the dchsny.org. French Aviation Service in late-1915. Earning his “wings,” he helped found the by Christopher Klose, famed Lafayette Escadrille (The Lafayette Historic Red Hook Flying Corps) of American volunteers, and Contribution by jim donick was shot down in a dog fight near Verdun on July 23, 1916, while flying to a rear area “From the beginning of the United on a mission of mercy. Chapman was carry- States ... the citizens of Red Hook have ever ing oranges to a hospital-bound comrade been loyal and patriotic, and always ready who had been badly shot up a few days to respond ... in times of national peril. previously. Hence, the entry of the country into the Rhynders was one of the last Americans World War, April 6, 1917, found our to die in action. A private in Company A, citizens responsive to the nation’s needs,’ 327th Infantry, 82nd Division, he was reported Frances E. Crouse in her killed on Oct. 10, 1918, in the Meusse- meticulous “Red Hook, New York in the Argonne Offensive. On the 10th of October Red Hook’s own Victor Chapman was the first American aviator to be killed in the war. Fellow World War.” Rhynders’ division, having just relieved the townsman Harry A. Rhynders (see cross, below) was one of the last Americans to die in action in Indeed, Red Hook was proud to make a 1st Division, was in action along the river World War I. Bottom: The local Red Cross chapter was busy on the home front making sure the difference “over there.” Answering Uncle Aire, just north of Fléville. Private First soldiers received necessary supplies, as well as sweet treats. Courtesy photos and photo by jim Sam’s call to arms, 161 townsmen eventu- Class Harry Rhynders likely fell there. The donick ally served in the Armed Forces. Eight of war was over a month and a day later. them paid the ultimate price: either killed in Both Chapman and Rhynders are buried patriotic call, but also to the promise of day ended.” action or succumbed to disease. Gone but in France. substantial returns when the bonds A retired reporter and magazine editor, Chris not forgotten, each Memorial Day we honor On the home front, Red Hook turned in matured. Altogether, Americans raised a Klose is a member of the board of Historic Red their sacrifice: Victor Chapman, Charles a mighty effort, as well. For example, staggering $20 billion, practically $360 Hook. Brizzie, Richard M. Coons, Fred Harris, Crouse recorded that the 291 members of billion now, to equip our “doughboys” with the Red Hook circle of the Red Cross made the tanks, guns, planes, mules and horses, “14,264 surgical dressings, 5 comfort kits, uniforms, boots, bayonets and helmets they 199 pairs of socks, 99 sweaters and 28 needed for victory in Europe. scarfs [sic].” And that the ‘Victor On June 1, 1919, Red Hook demonstrat- Chapman’ Red Cross Circle had responded ed its finest in a grand “welcome home!” overwhelmingly to the Tivoli Times- celebration for our boys. The festivities Journal appeal to “You housewives who began with a 1 p.m. ballgame between the can put up those tempting delicious jellies “DePeyster team, of Madalin, and the ... send a few jars to France ... daily the Subway Giants, of New York, in Chanler wounded beg for jams, for chocolate, for park...” followed by a “3:30 parade headed jelly, for plain sugar ... it is a fact that by the Griffing Band ... 60 of the returned wounds will not heal unless there is a cer- service men in uniform ... and a long line of tain amount of sugar in their systems.” The flag and bunting trimmed automobiles Circle had produced at least “90 knitted containing veterans of the Civil War...” and, garments, 225 [other] garments, 7 hot water for the guests of honor, a “clam bake ... bottles” and hundreds of surgical dressings moving picture show at the Lyceum ... and “for the cause.” dance with which the joyful activities of the Astonishingly, our small farming town of some 3,800 people contributed a total of $444,740 – just more than $8 million in today’s dollars – to the nation’s five SEND US YOUR EVENTS “Liberty Bond” drives between 1917 and 1919 to finance our participation in the war. [email protected] Like the rest of the country, Red Hookers Deadline: Thursday at noon the week before publication were responding to the government’s Calendar runs Thursday to Wednesday

April 18-24, 2018 - NORTHERN DUTCHESS NEWS & Creative Living 19 Year of the Veteran 1917-1919 Rhinebeck residents had vital roles in ‘The Great War’

Editor’s note: This is the second in a year-long airship in March 1917. Rhinebeck residents had joined series of articles by town, village and city In April 1917, a Dutchess County home the Red Cross and Mrs. Vincent historians about the World War 1 era as defense committee was formed, headed by Astor was made chair of the Dutchess County recognizes “The Year of The the editor of the Rhinebeck Gazette, Jacob newly created Rhinebeck chap- Veteran” with the Dutchess County Historical Strong. The committee located land that ter. Society. The articles will appear every other could be put into service growing food for week. If you have information relating to the the war effort. The members asked that the Building an army time around WWI in Dutchess County, call growing of food be added to the curriculum Plans for the regular army (845) 471-1630 or visit dchsny.org. View the of each school and that the newspaper cre- continued. By mid-July, all eli- following installment online at dchsny.org/ ate a weekly column to teach the public gible men in Rhinebeck were wwi-rhinebeck . “agricultural preparedness.” assigned draft numbers and the In May 1917, a three-man committee rules for exemption from the by David Miller was formed — A. Lee Stickle, Rhinebeck Army were announced. High School Principle E. C. Pullen and Dutchess County was divid- One hundred years ago the world was Rev. Francis Little — to build Rhinebeck’s ed into two districts totaling 396 entering the last year of “The Great War,” corps. The charge was “to find men men. Rhinebeck was part of the war to end all wars. Many events are between the ages of 16 and 64 who were of District 2, from which 215 men happening this year commemorating the good moral character and were physically were required. Notices were 100th anniversary of our county’s part in fit.” This group could be called upon for a sent out to 430 men to appear the war. This article is about what life was “breach of the peace, tumult, riot or resist- before the exemption board. like in Rhinebeck during the War. ance of process of the state or eminent dan- The men were to appear in The Doughboy statue in the village lists ger thereof.” They were to serve as an aux- Millbrook and the town worked 200 Rhinebeck veterans. Eight men died in iliary to the National Guard. By the end of out transportation for the men. the war: Edward J. Bell, Roy T. Crusius, the month, 71 men had signed up for the They had to have a second Edward A. Fitzpatrick, Arthur Haen, Alfred defense corps and held their first meeting at call of men to be examined W. Lane, George N. Miller Jr., Guy Pindar the Starr Institute. because too many filed for and Henry M. Suckley. Henry left for exemptions. Because so many who were now put into close contact with France in January 1915, served for more Paying for the war men were getting exemptions, the govern- thousands of men under terrible conditions. than two years as a French ambulance driv- The U.S. Government had to figure out a ment revoked all exemptions in November. They were exposed to diseases and they er and was killed by a bomb from a German way to pay for the war and in June began In March 1918, the Draft Board moved to died. selling the first liberty loan bonds. Rhinebeck. Tracy Dows and Benson Frost If you got a scratch, let alone a bullet Bonds were sold at banks and at the were members of the board. wound, there were no antibiotics and you Gazette office. The bonds paid 3.5 per- died. More men died from diseases than cent and were exempt from taxes. Food preparation being shot. Roy Crusius died from measles There were five Liberty Bond Herbert Hoover, head of the U.S. Food in a camp in the United States. Edward J. drives during the war and Rhinebeck Administration, was placed in charge of Bell and Guy Pindar died of pneumonia. exceeded its quota in all of them. You increasing food production and preserva- Edward Fitzpatrick was actually killed in could buy a $50 bond by making five tion to support the war. Since women could action. $10 payments. The third drive consist- not serve as soldiers in the Army or Home On Oct. 4, Germany asked for an ed of volunteers rolling a liberty ball Defense corps, they helped with food armistice; the Kaiser resigned and left for from Buffalo to New York City, 422 preservation for the public and our troops the Netherlands, where he spent the rest of miles. abroad. his life. Everyone knew that the armistice At the end of the year, the govern- The important foods for the troops were would be signed at 11 a.m. on 11/11, so ment came up with another idea to wheat and meat. So, the public was encour- Rhinebeck had a victory parade. raise $2 billion in 1918. They decided aged to eat vegetables, fruit and fish. The This was not the end of the war. It took that Liberty Bonds might be too Beekman Arms was recruited to be the eight more months for the allies to draft the expensive for some people coming in Food Administration headquarters and con- Treaty of Versailles, which was signed on denominations of $10 and $50, so they ducted classes to teach women cooking and June 28, 1919. Some historians believe that came up with a budget plan: War food preservation. the crippling terms of the treaty are what Savings Stamps, costing just 25 cents. Backyards, school grounds and ball lead to the rise of Hitler and next war. So, Individuals were given “thrift cards” fields were used to grow food. As the win- the next week, on July 4 ,1919, Rhinebeck with slots for 16 stamps. The complet- ter began, the country experienced coal had a second victory party with a parade ed card would be worth $5. shortages and the public was asked to help. through the village welcoming home the As the holidays approached, the The country began mining more coal and troops from Europe. Red Cross started a Christmas Seal people were encouraged to use wood to campaign for 1918. By January 1918, heat their houses and save the coal for the A retired IT manager, war effort. David Miller is the chairman of the Dying of disease Rhinebeck Historical In 1918, letters from the front and obitu- Society and chair- aries were printed in the Gazette. Millions man of the Village of died during the war from disease. You have Rhinebeck Planning to remember that this was 1918. Most of the Board. soldiers were from small towns and farms,

Above: The Rhinebeck Defense Corps in 1917. Right: A Liberty Bond Drive in 1917 involved rolling a Liberty Ball from Buffalo to New York City. It was rolled through Rhinebeck on the way. Courtesy photos

10 NORTHERN DUTCHESS NEWS & Creative Living - Feb. 21-27, 2018 Year of the Veteran 1917-1919 Stanford’s citizens stood together before and during World War I

Editor’s note: This is part of a year-long series Vermillyan, Harris Knickerbocker, William of articles by town, village and city historians Barratt Jr., William P. Talbot, Ray Devine, about the World War 1 era as Dutchess County Arlie Knickerbocker, H.S. Broad and recognizes “The Year of the Veteran” with the Richard Seaman. Dutchess County Historical Society. If you have One of their first activities as a league information relating to the time around WWI in was to participate in the town’s annual Dutchess County, call (845) 471-1630 or visit Memorial Day exercises. League members, dchsny.org. marching in khaki uniforms, paid for almost entirely by themselves, marched by Kathie Spiers from the armory with Chaplain Rev. Harrison leading the way. In early April 1917, the United States Buglers, drummers, Camp Fire Girls, entered World War 1 after President Wilson Boy Scouts and school students followed in had previously declared neutrality at its the procession. Older veterans gathered at onset in 1914. The sinking of U.S. mer- the cemetery were waiting for their arrival chant ships and the Lusitania compelled the along with many townspeople. United States to enter the conflict. The There was a scripture reading and Town of Stanford answered the call to war remarks from Rev. Harrison, as well as with citizen soldiers, numbering 54, to form remarks made by both Supervisor Devlin its own defense league on April 13, 1917. and G.A.R veteran Albert Knapp. Flags and According to the Poughkeepsie Eagle flowers carried by the students were placed News, “Bangall and Stanfordville were in on soldiers’ graves. The patriotic service, it the vanguard of preparedness.” was thought, “would teach the boys and Above: A large canopied bandstand was erected for Stanford’s July 4th celebration in 1917. The purpose of the defense league was girls the lesson that, in years to come, it Below: A variety of patriotic floats appeared in the July 4th parade. Photos courtesy of the Stanford to provide safety to the townspeople. It was would be an honor and privilege to honor Historical Society a forerunner of Civil Defense. Its members those who fought for the dear old flag.” participated in drills, held meetings, parad- The league then moved forward prepar- “A large canopied band stand, beautiful- flags and bunting and every child in ed, raised funds all the while showing sup- ing for a “July 4th celebration that would be ly draped has been erected in front of the Stanfordville will be presented with an port of the United States in the war. the grandest and largest the town had ever new armory building. Peabody’s Band will American flag free. William P. Talbot provided the league seen. There would be something happening play. A large plot of shaded ground with “Mrs. George C. Payne, who served as with his building as the armory, along with throughout the entire day from nine o’clock grass closely cut has been generously county president of the W.C.T.U. for thir- a cannon. Town Supervisor Thomas C. in the morning until midnight.” loaned by Enoch W. Moody in order that teen years, has great plans for receiving and Devlin, acted as the head of the league Thelma Haight, a long-time citizen of conditions would be pleasant and easy for entertaining and feeding the many persons while Van Ness Lawless served as Captain the town (now deceased), provided to access for lunching parties, etc. Also, a who will come to Stanford. Harry S. Broad with Frank Broad, 1st Lt., Lee Husted, 2nd Donald Spiers news clippings from the large covered shed to park automobiles, manager of the Borden’s dairy plant has Lt. and Rev. Robert J. Harrison as Chaplain. Poughkeepsie Eagle News that painted a carriages, etc., has been prepared on the received a large ice box and has donated ice Honorary members of the league were picture of the day. The description of the Grange grounds for those who desire to use and milk, so that ice cold milk and soft G.A.R. veterans George C. Payne, William day from his book “Stanford’s Memories” it. It is free to all. drinks can be purchased at a very small H. Whaley, Sherman Williams, Albert follows. “Ben Wheeler, for 20 years station agent price. Mrs. G. Badgley, wife of one of the Knapp, Egbert Hallock and Theodore “The saloons are absolutely to be closed for the CNE Railroad at Stanfordville, has largest fruit growers in Dutchess County Davis. Other members included Harry D. and on no condition will intoxicating drinks generously loaned his seven-passenger car and prominent Granger, is assisting in Knickerbocker, Richard Hillman, Eugene be sold in Stanfordville or Bangall on to the reception committee, as have many preparing a beautiful Grange float. Do not Allen, Percy Dewell, Albert Payne, Grant Independence Day. Also, the shooting of others, in order that everyone present may under any circumstances miss this excellent Boyce, Charles Dillinger, Elmer R.S. firecrackers or fireworks of any kind will be property and courteously cared for. parade. There are many surprises promised. Husted, Charles E. Mead, Frank Haight, not be allowed along the line of march, H.W. Marshall, agent at Bangall, has had “Mrs. William P. Talbot, whose beautiful Freeman Marshall, L.A. Broad, Harry thereby assuring an enjoyable and peaceful the station and buildings painted a pleasing Venetian gardens and tea house is one of the Hults, George Dillinger Jr., William B. day. color and is hanging bunting everywhere to local showplaces, is a Stanfordville and Ogden, George Campbell, Jay “William B. Talbot, one of the most dis- make that part of the line of march attrac- Bangall native and has always maintained a Knickerbocker, George Merritt, Adelbert tinguished citizens, through whose patriotic tive. residence there with her mother, the late Decker, Harvey R. Losee, James J. Dixon, generosity the League has its new armory, “William B. Talbot has also bought over Mrs. John Tripp, until married in 1911 to Edward Jucket, Charles Velie, Lee C. cannons, etc., is to present the company $100 worth of fireworks purchased under her distinguished husband. She is always Bundy, John B. Whalen, B. Wheeler, H.A. with a 6 X 10 foot American flag and two the direction of the Superintendent of willing and anxious to be of service in any Kemp, Charles G. Post, Thomas J. Whalen, pennant flags – one of the company’s pen- Fireworks of New York City to be used in way that will help in the betterment of the M.G. Seaman, Lucian Taylor, Dr. Newton nant and the other the Red Cross pennant – the grand display which is to close the community. Boyce, H.W. Marshall, Jackson Butts, C. to fly from the armory’s flag staff. events of Independence Day. The fireworks The program for the Fourth of July fol- will begin at 8 p.m. and will be on the hill lows: by the armory. Mr. Talbot has also made a 9:00 Assemble at the ball grounds great many waterproof signs, black letter- 9:30 Band Concert ing on a yellow background, which read, 10:00 Ball Game ‘This way to Stanford and Bangall.’ The 11:00 Athletic Sports signs are being placed at every crossroad 12:00 Dinner at Armory and lane within a radius of twenty miles in 1:00 Band Concert at Armory order that no one need miss the way to 2:00 Flag Raising at Armory Stanford on this Fourth of July. 2:30 Parade, Armory to Bangall “Harry Knickerbocker, who is very 3:30 Parade, Bangall to Stanfordville modest of praise, but who has been inde- 4:00 Address at Grange Hall fatigable in faithful work for the upbuild of 5:00 Parade, Grange Hall to Armory the Home Defense League, has the placing 5:30 Band Concert at Armory of these signs in charge, and he and Lee 6:00 Supper at Armory Bundy can be seen along the roads at any 7:00 Band Concert time putting up placards and tacking up 8:00 Fireworks directions for the Stanford celebration. “Get up early, rain or shine, and come “Several beautiful floats are being pre- prepared to spend the day. You will be made pared and among them an excellent one by comfortable and at ease. There are plenty of Mrs. Bessie B. Meade, who is principal of places to rest in the shade. Hear the band, the Hendrick Hudson School in Stanford. “The line of march is decorated with continued on page 19

Aug. 15-21, 2018 - NORTHERN DUTCHESS NEWS & Creative Living 17