| Recent Events: |
THS Annual Meeting – Friday, November 7 October 15, 2014 Dear Tappantown Historical Society Member, You are invited to the Society’s Annual Meeting on Friday, November 7, 2014, at 7:30 pm in the Carriage House of the DeWint grounds on Livingston St. in Tappan. After a brief business meeting which will include the president’s annual report, treasurer’s report, and the election of officers and directors, we will settle in for the program “Rarities of Tappan.” Program 8 pm Rarities of Tappan The Tappan Reformed Church Historic Records Restoration Project Two primary documents dating from 1783 will be on display: The Compendium of Consistory Records, which includes the Affirmation of Articles of Incorporation, and the Baptism Records. Reverend Donald J. Hoover will explain the restoration project and read selections from the Elders Meetings, which show how the role of the church has changed over the centuries. ~~~~~~~ The Franklin Tree A Franklinia Alatamaha is one of the rarest of native trees, and there is one among the many specimen trees on the DeWint property. Expert gardener Joe Napoli will talk about the characteristics and history of the tree from its discovery in 1765 in Georgia by Philadelphia botanists John and William Bartrum. Please come and enjoy yourselves. Guests are welcome. As always, there will be tasty food and drink. |
Saturday, Sept. 27, 2014
Colonial Day on the DeWint House grounds in Tappan
Colonial Day on the DeWint House grounds in Tappan
| Saturday, May 3, 2014 9am to 2pm The 46th Annual THS Plant Sale – A Perennial Favorite A THS fundraiser, the Plant Sale will once again be held on the back lawn of the Tappan Reformed Church Manse grounds across from the Post Office on Old Tappan Road on Saturday, May 3rd from 9am to 2pm. Perennials from members’ gardens, bedding annuals, herbs, vegetables, small flowering plants and shrubs, and raffle prizes from local restaurants and merchants will be featured. Master gardener will be on hand to give advice on planting, mulching, watering, and dealing with all manner of pests. If you have perennials to donate to the sale, please call 845-359- 1923 or email THS. We can also use help in picking up plants on Friday afternoon, setting up on Saturday morning, and cleaning up on Saturday afternoon. Be in touch with the above contact number if you can help |
Tappantown Historical Society invites you to our 48th Annual Dinner and
presentation of the Achievement Awards on Friday, February 28, 2014.
Commencing at 6:30 in the evening there will be good fellowship and victuals at The Old '76 House: Cocktail Hour from
6:30, Dinner (click to view the menu) and the presentation of awards at 7:30 PM.
All are welcome, members and non-members to celebrate these accomplishments.
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TAPPANTOWN HISTORICAL SOCIETY TO PRESENT
2014 ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS AT ANNUAL DINNER
On the evening of Friday, February 28, 2014, the members of the Tappantown Historical Society and their guests will
gather fireside at the Old ’76 House for the 49th Annual Achievement Awards. The annual dinner is a celebration of
local historic preservation. This year, the awards will recognize preservation efforts that span almost 320 years of local
history. From the oldest cemetery in Rockland County and one of the oldest in the United States, the Tappan Cemetery,
to a stately home in the Tappan Historic District built after the Civil War, and finally, to a reunion last fall of the children of
G.I.s who grew up in Shanks Village after World War II, this year’s event provides a wonderful survey of some of the rich
history of our county, state, and country that exist in the local Tappan area. Rounding out the awards will be a
Fellowship Award, which is given to someone who exemplifies the Tappantown Historic Society’s values of historic
preservation and education over a long period of time.
The Tappantown Historical Society 2014 Achievement Awards will be presented to the following:
1. Deanna Mazzarella for renovation and restoration of the Brown-Eells House (c. 1835 and 1872), a French Second
Empire Mansion on Kings Highway, and for plantings that enhance historic Kings Highway and the Tappan Historic
District.
2. Bobbi Chertok, Orangeburg Library Program Coordinator, and Elizabeth Skrabonja, Orangetown Museum Archives
and Museum Curator, for their organization of the event “Shanks for the Memories – the Children of Shanks Village,” a
commemoration of the historic creation of Shanks Village during World War II.
3. Katie Raia, Superintendent of Tappan Cemetery; the Tappan Reformed Church; and Reverend Dr. Richard
Hasselbach, Pastor of the Clarkstown Reformed Church for the restoration of historic grave markers in the Tappan
Cemetery, and for the creation of an on-going restoration project, and a walking tour and map of historic sites in the
cemetery.
4. The Fellowship Award is given to Tappan resident J. Peter Schuerholz for his many years of service and
commitment to education, conservation, and preservation in and beyond the historic area of Tappan.
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Friday, November 8, 2013 Annual Meeting of the Tappantown Historical
Society in DeWint Carrriage House, 7:30pm. All are invited.
Society in DeWint Carrriage House, 7:30pm. All are invited.
Saturday, November 16, 2013 Tappan Community Concert: Ted Piltzecker
Quartet at the Tappan Reformed Church (free admission)
Quartet at the Tappan Reformed Church (free admission)
June 15 Tappan Community Concert: The Mighty Starlites at the Tappan Reformed
Church (free admission)
Church (free admission)
| Saturday, May 4, 2013 9am to 2pm The 45th Annual THS Plant Sale – A Perennial Favorite A THS fundraiser, the Plant Sale will once again be held on the back lawn of the Tappan Reformed Church Manse grounds across from the Post Office on Old Tappan Road on Saturday, May 4th from 9am to 2pm. Perennials from members’ gardens, bedding annuals, herbs, vegetables, small flowering plants and shrubs, and raffle prizes from local restaurants and merchants will be featured. Master gardener will be on hand to give advice on planting, mulching, watering, and dealing with all manner of pests. If you have perennials to donate to the sale, please call 845-359-1923 or email THS. We can also use help in picking up plants on Friday afternoon, setting up on Saturday morning, and cleaning up on Saturday afternoon. Be in touch with the above contact number if you can help |
| Awards Dinner Tappantown Historical Society invites you to our 48th Annual Dinner and presentation of the Achievement Awards on Friday, February 22, 2013. Commencing at 6:30 in the evening there will be good fellowship and victuals at The Old '76 House: Cocktail Hour from 6: 30, Dinner and the presentation of awards at 7:30. The Tappantown Historical Society will recognize the special contributions of members of our community who have helped foster the Society’s goals of preservation, protection, and education. All are welcome, members and non-members to celebrate these accomplishments. |
Dear Tappantown Historical Society Member:
The Annual Report, the Annual Treasurer's Report, and board election will be given at the
regular meeting of the Tappantown Historical Society on December 4, 2012 at 7:30 pm at the
Carriage House on the DeWint House grounds. All members are welcome to attend this
meeting.
Unfortunately, In recovering from the storm and with the scheduling conflicts with holiday
programs, it has been difficult to reschedule the full Annual Meeting with a program and
refreshments. The program, "Orangetown and How It Grew," will be rescheduled for a time
early in the new year, and we will be in touch when that date is set.
Thank you for your support in our activities and for your understanding during this time.
Carol LaValle
President
Nov 9 Tappan Community Concert: Scott Colley Trio at the Tappan Reformed
Church (free admission)
Church (free admission)
Sept 29, 2012 Colonial Day
Friday, May 4 at 8pm Klang String Quartet Opens New Concert Series in the historic Tappan Reformed
Church
Tappan Community Concerts Announce Inaugural Season
Tappan Community Concerts, a new cultural organization in Tappan is a collaboration by three non-profit organizations – the
Tappantown Historical Society, the Tappan Library and the Tappan Reformed Church.
The concerts take advantage of the talents of professional musicians living in the lower Hudson Valley area, many who have
remarkable international performing careers, but rarely have the opportunity to perform for their neighbors and local audiences.
On the concert will be Alfred Schnikke's remarkable Piano Quintet from 1976, John Morton's Pandemonia for music boxes and
string quartet, Julian Carrillo's 2 Boqueros - a quarter-tone work from 1920, and Beethoven's Op.18 #2.
The concert is free, although donations to maintain the concert series are welcome. There will be a reception and opportunity to
meet the musicians after the concert.
Church
Tappan Community Concerts Announce Inaugural Season
Tappan Community Concerts, a new cultural organization in Tappan is a collaboration by three non-profit organizations – the
Tappantown Historical Society, the Tappan Library and the Tappan Reformed Church.
The concerts take advantage of the talents of professional musicians living in the lower Hudson Valley area, many who have
remarkable international performing careers, but rarely have the opportunity to perform for their neighbors and local audiences.
On the concert will be Alfred Schnikke's remarkable Piano Quintet from 1976, John Morton's Pandemonia for music boxes and
string quartet, Julian Carrillo's 2 Boqueros - a quarter-tone work from 1920, and Beethoven's Op.18 #2.
The concert is free, although donations to maintain the concert series are welcome. There will be a reception and opportunity to
meet the musicians after the concert.
| Thursday, March 8 at 7pm at Tappan Library: Orangetown: A Pictorial History On Thursday, March 8 at 7 p.m., join local historian and Director, Orangetown Museum & Archives, Mary Cardenas. Cardenas, along with researcher Paul Clark have written a book entitled "Orangetown," a pictorial history of Orangetown's hamlets and villages. Many of the photographs come from local libraries and private collections, and have not been published before. Enjoy this visual history of our region with the author. Online registration: www.taplib.org. Info: 359-3877. |
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| February 24, 2012 Annual Dinner and Achievement Awards 2012. |
November 4, 2011 Annual Meeting of the Tappantown Historical Society in
DeWint Carrriage House, 7:30pm. All are invited.
DeWint Carrriage House, 7:30pm. All are invited.
| Saturday, Sept. 24, 2011 Colonial Day on the DeWint House grounds Tappantown Historical Society invites you to our 27th Annual COLONIAL DAY at The DeWint House Grounds Livingston Street and Oak Tree Road, Tappan, NY Saturday, September 24, 2011, from 12 PM to 5 PM Step back in time and visit Colonial America... Come see Colonial Army Re-enactors and Encampment Soldiers Colonial Singers and Dancers Quilting Embroidery Lace-making See a Blacksmith, Woodworker and Cooper. Ladies and Gentlemen in Colonial Attire preparing for Winter in the DeWint House Kitchen For the children: apple pressing, stenciling, candle-dipping, spinning, butter-making, Colonial Hat and Apron Making, writing with quill pen Farm Animals Sheep Shearer Join costumed guides for a tour of the House, an outstanding example of Dutch Colonial architecture and General George Washington’s headquarters during the Revolutionary War. REFRESHMENTS AVAILABLE LIMITED ON-SITE PARKING FREE ADMISSION For more information contact: Colonial Day Chairwoman, Lucille Starink 845-359-2307 Tappantown President, Carol Lavalle 845-359-1923 Publicity coordinator, Marilyn Schauder 845-358-7243 *Colonial Day will be held in conjunction with the 12th annual Hudson River Valley Ramble http://hudsonrivervalleyramble.com a program of over 200 exciting events to be held in the region over 3 weekends in September.* |
| Tappan 325 years – 1686 to 2011 Tappantown Historic Society Presents the Klang String Quartet in the Historic Tappan Reformed Church The accomplished musicians of the Klang String Quartet return to the historic, newly restored 1835 Tappan Reformed Church in a performance on Friday, June 17, 2011 at 8 pm. The program will include string quartets by Mozart, Beethoven and Shostakovich, and will feature a new work by Tappan composer John Morton for string quartet and music box. The acoustical clarity and the intimacy of the Tappan Reformed Church provide the perfect setting for the Klang String Quartet’s depth and subtlety. The members of the Quartet are Gregor Kitzis, violin 1; Rieko Kawabata, violin 2; Yi-Ping Yang, viola; and Matthew Goeke, cello. John Morton will join them in the performance of his work. Sponsored by the Tappantown Historical Society, the concert is free, but donations will be welcomed. The Tappan Reformed Church is located on Kings Highway in the center of historic Tappan. The Tappantown Historical Society is a 501 ( c ) 3 not-for-profit organization. Contributions are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law. Tappantown Historical Society, PO Box 71, Tappan, NY 10983 |
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| Saturday, Sept. 25, 2010 Colonial Day on the DeWint House grounds Tappantown Historical Society invites you to our 26th Annual COLONIAL DAY at The DeWint House Grounds Livingston Street and Oak Tree Road, Tappan, NY Saturday, September 25, 2010, from 12 PM to 5 PM Step back in time and visit Colonial America... Come see Colonial Army Re-enactors and Encampment Soldiers Colonial Singers and Dancers Quilting Embroidery Lace-making See a Blacksmith, Woodworker and Cooper. Ladies and Gentlemen in Colonial Attire preparing for Winter in the DeWint House Kitchen For the children: apple pressing, stenciling, candle-dipping, spinning, butter-making, Colonial Hat and Apron Making, writing with quill pen Farm Animals Sheep Shearer Tour The Carriage House Museum and DeWint House REFRESHMENTS AVAILABLE LIMITED ON-SITE PARKING FREE ADMISSION |
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Saturday, June 12 Chamber music concert in the historic Tappan Reformed Church - Klang String
Quartet Concert
An evening of music, light, and grace
The Tappantown Historical Society is delighted to present the Klang String Quartet in its debut performance in the historic 1835
Tappan Reformed Church on Saturday, June 12, 2010, at 7:30 pm.
The program is an imaginative and intriguing mix of 18th and 19th century European works and two 20th century American
compositions. The program begins with Mozart’s Quartet in B-flat K.589. Composed in 1790, it is among the last quartets he wrote,
and it is noted for giving equal value to the cello among the four instruments. Works by two 20th Century American composers follow:
“Andante” from The String Quartet of 1931 by Ruth Crawford Seeger (considered by many to be the foremost American woman
composer of the 20th Century) and Elliot Carter’s Elegy, an early quartet in a more romantic tradition than his later works. The program
closes with the Mendelssohn Quartet #5, Opus 44 #3 in E flat major composed in 1838 .
The acoustical clarity and the intimacy of the Tappan Reformed Church provide the perfect setting for the depth and subtleties of this
music. Please join the Tappantown Historical Society in celebrating both the debut of this dynamic new ensemble and the completion
of phase 1 - the restoration of the west façade - of the Tappan Reformed Church’s Preservation Project. Listen to the music as the
western light filters through the delicate, shimmering glass of the restored 19 century windows.
Quartet Concert
An evening of music, light, and grace
The Tappantown Historical Society is delighted to present the Klang String Quartet in its debut performance in the historic 1835
Tappan Reformed Church on Saturday, June 12, 2010, at 7:30 pm.
The program is an imaginative and intriguing mix of 18th and 19th century European works and two 20th century American
compositions. The program begins with Mozart’s Quartet in B-flat K.589. Composed in 1790, it is among the last quartets he wrote,
and it is noted for giving equal value to the cello among the four instruments. Works by two 20th Century American composers follow:
“Andante” from The String Quartet of 1931 by Ruth Crawford Seeger (considered by many to be the foremost American woman
composer of the 20th Century) and Elliot Carter’s Elegy, an early quartet in a more romantic tradition than his later works. The program
closes with the Mendelssohn Quartet #5, Opus 44 #3 in E flat major composed in 1838 .
The acoustical clarity and the intimacy of the Tappan Reformed Church provide the perfect setting for the depth and subtleties of this
music. Please join the Tappantown Historical Society in celebrating both the debut of this dynamic new ensemble and the completion
of phase 1 - the restoration of the west façade - of the Tappan Reformed Church’s Preservation Project. Listen to the music as the
western light filters through the delicate, shimmering glass of the restored 19 century windows.
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June 6, 2010 Walking Tour through Tappan
Field Report.
Meeting location:
Grounds of DeWint House, Tappan, NY
Present:
Cub Scout Pack 233, Den 2, Nanuet, NY
(Consisting 11 young gentlemen – 9 parents)
Militiaman Walker
Arrived at DeWint House grounds property at 1245 hours. Aforementioned group was beginning the afternoon in the capable hands of
Mrs. Kathy Jones and Mr. Karl Best.
The tour began in the Carriage House museum with the DeWint House/Arnold/Andre video and museum tour by Mr. Best, followed by a
tour of DeWint House with Mrs. Jones.
Upon returning to the Carriage House museum our group was informed of General George Washington’s ancestral home in England.
A brief description of a militiaman’s clothing and armaments and functionality was followed by taking the group outside to be lined up
for a bayonet charge. After a couple of loud “Huzzahs,” from behind the bayonet, a more subdued group was lined up to walk through
the historic town of Tappan.
After crossing Oak Tree Road we walked through the park, where the Tito Puente, Sr. memorial tree was pointed out to our gathering
and onward past the rear of the library to Main Street. Here mention was made of historic and architectural features for some of the
buildings. Our destination was the Tappan Reformed Church, which was now in view.
Inside the church building, the group was informed of this Federal Style building and its architectural features before embarking on our
final trip back along Main street to The Old ’76 House, or as we stated a number of times Andre’s Prison. Our group was handed over
to Tavern keeper Mr. Robert Norden, who regaled them with more Tappan history while they enjoyed ice cream and soda.
Respectfully presented,
Keith H. Walker - June 9, 2010
Our gentlemen recruits leaving the DeWint House Grounds (DeWint House in background)
[Used by permission of Parents]
Field Report.
Meeting location:
Grounds of DeWint House, Tappan, NY
Present:
Cub Scout Pack 233, Den 2, Nanuet, NY
(Consisting 11 young gentlemen – 9 parents)
Militiaman Walker
Arrived at DeWint House grounds property at 1245 hours. Aforementioned group was beginning the afternoon in the capable hands of
Mrs. Kathy Jones and Mr. Karl Best.
The tour began in the Carriage House museum with the DeWint House/Arnold/Andre video and museum tour by Mr. Best, followed by a
tour of DeWint House with Mrs. Jones.
Upon returning to the Carriage House museum our group was informed of General George Washington’s ancestral home in England.
A brief description of a militiaman’s clothing and armaments and functionality was followed by taking the group outside to be lined up
for a bayonet charge. After a couple of loud “Huzzahs,” from behind the bayonet, a more subdued group was lined up to walk through
the historic town of Tappan.
After crossing Oak Tree Road we walked through the park, where the Tito Puente, Sr. memorial tree was pointed out to our gathering
and onward past the rear of the library to Main Street. Here mention was made of historic and architectural features for some of the
buildings. Our destination was the Tappan Reformed Church, which was now in view.
Inside the church building, the group was informed of this Federal Style building and its architectural features before embarking on our
final trip back along Main street to The Old ’76 House, or as we stated a number of times Andre’s Prison. Our group was handed over
to Tavern keeper Mr. Robert Norden, who regaled them with more Tappan history while they enjoyed ice cream and soda.
Respectfully presented,
Keith H. Walker - June 9, 2010
Our gentlemen recruits leaving the DeWint House Grounds (DeWint House in background)
[Used by permission of Parents]
Saturday, May 8 9am to 2pm
The 42nd Annual THS Plant Sale – A Perennial Favorite
A THS fund raiser, the Plant Sale will once again be held on the back lawn of the Tappan Reformed Church Manse grounds across
from the Post Office on Old Tappan Road on May 8th from 9am to 2pm.
Perennials from members’ gardens, bedding annuals, herbs, vegetables, small flowering plants and shrubs, baked goods, and
raffle prizes from local restaurants and merchants will be featured. New this year will be cut flowers, heirloom tomatoes, and
colonial garden plant varieties. Master gardeners will be on hand to give advice on planting, mulching, watering, and dealing with
all manner of pests.
If you have perennials to donate to the sale, please call 845-359-1923 or email THS. We can also use help in picking up plants on
Friday afternoon, setting up on Saturday morning, and cleaning up on Saturday afternoon. Be in touch with the above contact
numbers if you can help
The 42nd Annual THS Plant Sale – A Perennial Favorite
A THS fund raiser, the Plant Sale will once again be held on the back lawn of the Tappan Reformed Church Manse grounds across
from the Post Office on Old Tappan Road on May 8th from 9am to 2pm.
Perennials from members’ gardens, bedding annuals, herbs, vegetables, small flowering plants and shrubs, baked goods, and
raffle prizes from local restaurants and merchants will be featured. New this year will be cut flowers, heirloom tomatoes, and
colonial garden plant varieties. Master gardeners will be on hand to give advice on planting, mulching, watering, and dealing with
all manner of pests.
If you have perennials to donate to the sale, please call 845-359-1923 or email THS. We can also use help in picking up plants on
Friday afternoon, setting up on Saturday morning, and cleaning up on Saturday afternoon. Be in touch with the above contact
numbers if you can help
April 11, 2010 2:00pm at the Manse Barn
Educational Program: Stories of the "First People:" the Tappaans and their Neighbors.
Educational Program: Stories of the "First People:" the Tappaans and their Neighbors.
February 26, 2010 Annual Dinner and Achievement Awards 2010
Nov. 13, 2009 Annual Meeting of the Tappantown Historical Society
The Tappantown Historical Society exhibited our rare and recently restored copy of the Peter J. Haring 1704 Division Patent
Orangetown Town Historian Mary Cardenas explained the Patent's origins in the earlier 1686 Tappan Patent and trace its later history
and provenance.
Paper Conservator Edith Hart talked about the challenges in preserving the 305-year-old vellum document and the process used to
restore and reframe it according to archival standards.
The Tappantown Historical Society exhibited our rare and recently restored copy of the Peter J. Haring 1704 Division Patent
Orangetown Town Historian Mary Cardenas explained the Patent's origins in the earlier 1686 Tappan Patent and trace its later history
and provenance.
Paper Conservator Edith Hart talked about the challenges in preserving the 305-year-old vellum document and the process used to
restore and reframe it according to archival standards.
Sept. 26, 2009 Colonial Day on the DeWint House grounds
Our 25th annual COLONIAL DAY on the grounds of the DeWint House (Oak Tree Rd & Livingston St.) in Tappan. Step back in time and
visit Colonial America.
(please see photos from the 2007 Colonial Day at the bottom of this page
Our 25th annual COLONIAL DAY on the grounds of the DeWint House (Oak Tree Rd & Livingston St.) in Tappan. Step back in time and
visit Colonial America.
(please see photos from the 2007 Colonial Day at the bottom of this page
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Friday, October 2, 2009 Andre Walk - Area school children retrace the final hours of British spy Major John Andre. (special
note: this year marks the 130th anniversary of the unveiling of the Andre Monument on Andre Hill)
Children from Cottage Lane Elementary School, teachers and parents arrived around 11:00am at The ’76 House on Main Street and
were greeted by Mr. Keith Walker from the Tappantown Historical Society dressed as a Colonial Militiaman.
Tavern keeper Mr. Robert Norden had set Andre’s Prison Room up in theater style seating, so upon entering through the current main
entrance everyone was directed to take a seat for the proceedings to begin.
Mr. Norden gave a brief history of The ’76 House and its use and involvement before, during and after the American Revolution. He
stated that the room everyone was seated in was the exact room where British spy Major John Andre was held captive and that this
was even a tavern at that time not a prison. Mr. Walker told of Andre’s orders from his General Sir Henry Clinton and how by
disregarding these orders he would finally be hanged in Tappan. Everyone was then informed that when they left the restaurant they
were going to walk the exact same route that Major John Andre followed 229 years ago, approximately ¾ of a mile, to the monument
on Andre Hill. Mr. Norden asked everyone to walk past the bar and note the wall hangings, especially the photograph of Andre’s final
internment location and American traitor General Benedict Arnold’s portrait over the fireplace. Everyone left The ’76 House by the
same door Andre had left that fateful morning onto Main Street to retrace Andre’s walk.
Where today’s Andre story began
and the walk commenced.
During the walk Mr. Walker pointed out other historical areas and buildings en route.
Nearing the final destination –
At the monument Mr. Walker gave a brief description of the events that occurred that October 2nd morning in 1780. He told of how
Andre accepted his fate exactly 229 years to the day at 12:00 noon. As the proceedings were drawing to a close we were now
approaching that same time. Before leaving the children were able to walk around the monument to read the inscriptions. They had
previously been told that 2009 marked the 130th anniversary of the unveiling of the Andre Monument.
Just after the school bus left an anonymous
gentleman arrived and laid a wreath
on the monument!
note: this year marks the 130th anniversary of the unveiling of the Andre Monument on Andre Hill)
Children from Cottage Lane Elementary School, teachers and parents arrived around 11:00am at The ’76 House on Main Street and
were greeted by Mr. Keith Walker from the Tappantown Historical Society dressed as a Colonial Militiaman.
Tavern keeper Mr. Robert Norden had set Andre’s Prison Room up in theater style seating, so upon entering through the current main
entrance everyone was directed to take a seat for the proceedings to begin.
Mr. Norden gave a brief history of The ’76 House and its use and involvement before, during and after the American Revolution. He
stated that the room everyone was seated in was the exact room where British spy Major John Andre was held captive and that this
was even a tavern at that time not a prison. Mr. Walker told of Andre’s orders from his General Sir Henry Clinton and how by
disregarding these orders he would finally be hanged in Tappan. Everyone was then informed that when they left the restaurant they
were going to walk the exact same route that Major John Andre followed 229 years ago, approximately ¾ of a mile, to the monument
on Andre Hill. Mr. Norden asked everyone to walk past the bar and note the wall hangings, especially the photograph of Andre’s final
internment location and American traitor General Benedict Arnold’s portrait over the fireplace. Everyone left The ’76 House by the
same door Andre had left that fateful morning onto Main Street to retrace Andre’s walk.
Where today’s Andre story began
and the walk commenced.
During the walk Mr. Walker pointed out other historical areas and buildings en route.
Nearing the final destination –
- the beginning of Andre Hill and
a profound moment for Andre.
At the monument Mr. Walker gave a brief description of the events that occurred that October 2nd morning in 1780. He told of how
Andre accepted his fate exactly 229 years to the day at 12:00 noon. As the proceedings were drawing to a close we were now
approaching that same time. Before leaving the children were able to walk around the monument to read the inscriptions. They had
previously been told that 2009 marked the 130th anniversary of the unveiling of the Andre Monument.
Just after the school bus left an anonymous
gentleman arrived and laid a wreath
on the monument!
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| Remembering Paul Melone Paul W. Melone, a founder of the Tappantown Historical and other civic organizations, died on August 12, 2008. He was 96. While there are many memories of Paul’s sixty years of tenacious, dedicated, and visionary activism that we could include in this memoriam, we are offering two: one a fond remembrance of Paul by his friend, neighbor, and fellow history maven, Jules Loh, author of Treason: The Arnold-Andre Plot; the other, a more formal tribute to Paul by former THS President Thomas LaValle on presenting Paul with the Tappantown Historical Society Fellowship Award at the Annual Awards Dinner in February, 2005. The Essential Paul Melone by Jules Loh Fellowship Award for Paul Melone presented by Thomas LaValle |
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Photos from 23rd Annual Colonial Day, Sept. 29th, 2007
(please click on the image to view the full size)
(please click on the image to view the full size)
Fifth New York Regiment demonstrating firing
drills.
drills.
Nickel-O-Farms animals grazing and
contemplating their great escape.
contemplating their great escape.
Native American exhibit of Lenape Lifeways.
Sheep Shearer, Fred DePaul from Plymouth
Vermont, trimming one of his five sheep.
Vermont, trimming one of his five sheep.
2007 Colonial Day photos by Keith Walker.
Celebrating 325 years of Tappan history - 1686-87 to 2011-12 Press release: From: Tappantown Historical Society, Carol LaValle, President, phone 359-1923 Marilyn Schauder, publicity, phone 358-7243 Subject: Tappantown Historical Society’s Annual Dinner and Achievement Awards 2012 The Tappantown Historical Society will recognize the special contributions of members of our community who have helped foster the Society’s goals of preservation, protection, and education at its 47th Annual Awards Dinner on Friday, February 24, at the ’76 House. This year, as we commemorate the 325th anniversary of the Tappan or Orangetown Patent, we are pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s Tappantown Achievement Awards: ‚ Jamie Kempton, Ed Kopf, Dan Sherman, and Larry Vail of the Sparkill History Project for organizing Sparkill History Day, July 23, 2011, at which people shared old photographs, maps, and memories, and which also celebrated Christ Church Sparkill’s designation as an historic site by the New York State and the National Registries of Historic Places. ‚ Orangetown Historian Mary Cardenas and writer Paul Clark for authorship of the pictorial history Orangetown, published by Arcadia Publishing in its Images of America series. ‚ Anthony and Michael Fasciano for their restoration of the interior of Giulio’s, which brings new life and light to the restaurant in the 1880's Queen Anne style house on Washington Street in Tappan. In commemoration of Orangetown’s 325 years, the Historic Society will exhibit the restored 1704 Division Patent that belonged to Peter J. Haring, one of the original 16 patentees of the 1686-87 Patent that established Orangetown. The 1704 vellum document describes those lands deeded to Peter J. Haring from the land held in common by the original signers of the 1686/7 Tappan Patent. All are welcome, members and non-members, to celebrate these accomplishments. |
Tappantown Historical Society - Events Calendar
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All Colonial Day 2009 photos copyright Stephen Melniszyn - MZ Photopgraphy.
(please click on the image to view full-size photo)
(please click on the image to view full-size photo)
Benjamin Franklin
Bagpipes
Members of the Fifth New York Regiment
saluting the Founder
saluting the Founder
Musket Fire
On April 11th, 2010, the Tappantown Historical Society and the Piermont Historical Society will jointly offer a program about the Native
American groups identified by early Dutch settlers as the first inhabitants of the Lower Hudson Valley and Northern New Jersey. In a
presentation entitled Stories of the "First People:" the Tappaans and their Neighbors, noted regional historian and author Kevin
W. Wright will provide a detailed portrait of tribal life and the relationship between the natives and the newly-arrived Europeans
during the seventeenth century in eastern Bergen and Rockland counties.
Wright, a New Jersey native, is the author of the recently published 1609: A Country That Was Never Lost - The 400th Anniversary of
Henry Hudson's Visit with North Americans of the Middle Atlantic Coast. He began his career in historic interpretation at New Jersey’
s Waterloo Village, and served as curator of the Steuben House in River Edge, NJ. Wright was instrumental in the preservation of the
1848 Sussex Courthouse in Newton, NJ, and prepared the National Register nomination for the Newton Town Plot Historic District.
In 1985, Wright’s research supported NJ’s claims to Ellis and Liberty Islands, and in 2000 he became the first Resource Interpretive
Specialist for the Northern Region of New Jersey. Wright is a past president of the Sussex and Bergen County Historical Societies,
and has been a member of the Newton Preservation Advisory Commission since 1987.
Stories of the "First People:" the Tappaans and their Neighbors is the first co-production by the Piermont and Tappantown Historical
Societies. It will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 11, 2010 at the Manse Barn, located at intersection of Old Tappan Road and
Kings Highway in the center of Tappan, NY.
American groups identified by early Dutch settlers as the first inhabitants of the Lower Hudson Valley and Northern New Jersey. In a
presentation entitled Stories of the "First People:" the Tappaans and their Neighbors, noted regional historian and author Kevin
W. Wright will provide a detailed portrait of tribal life and the relationship between the natives and the newly-arrived Europeans
during the seventeenth century in eastern Bergen and Rockland counties.
Wright, a New Jersey native, is the author of the recently published 1609: A Country That Was Never Lost - The 400th Anniversary of
Henry Hudson's Visit with North Americans of the Middle Atlantic Coast. He began his career in historic interpretation at New Jersey’
s Waterloo Village, and served as curator of the Steuben House in River Edge, NJ. Wright was instrumental in the preservation of the
1848 Sussex Courthouse in Newton, NJ, and prepared the National Register nomination for the Newton Town Plot Historic District.
In 1985, Wright’s research supported NJ’s claims to Ellis and Liberty Islands, and in 2000 he became the first Resource Interpretive
Specialist for the Northern Region of New Jersey. Wright is a past president of the Sussex and Bergen County Historical Societies,
and has been a member of the Newton Preservation Advisory Commission since 1987.
Stories of the "First People:" the Tappaans and their Neighbors is the first co-production by the Piermont and Tappantown Historical
Societies. It will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 11, 2010 at the Manse Barn, located at intersection of Old Tappan Road and
Kings Highway in the center of Tappan, NY.
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Events:
DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER THE COLONIAL DAY IS CANCELLED.
Please accept our apologies. There is no rain date. We hope to see you
next year.
Please accept our apologies. There is no rain date. We hope to see you
next year.
THS Decorates for the Holidays
For the holiday season, members of the Tappantown Historical Society wrapped the lamp posts on Main
Street and around the Memorial Triangle with natural greens and red bows on November 29. THS began this
tradition in 2009 when the lamp posts, replicas of ones that lit up Main Street in the late 19th century, were
installed as part of a county and town project.
The tradition of decorating for the holidays with natural materials and lighted candles in the windows began
long ago with the Tappan Reformed Church and the Volunteer Fire Association of Tappan. Over the years,
many of the homes, restaurants, and businesses have joined in keeping this tradition alive. This year, on a
walk or drive around the historic district you will see natural wreaths, swags, and roping adorning many of
the building, and many places aglow with the soft illumination of candles in the windows.
For the holiday season, members of the Tappantown Historical Society wrapped the lamp posts on Main
Street and around the Memorial Triangle with natural greens and red bows on November 29. THS began this
tradition in 2009 when the lamp posts, replicas of ones that lit up Main Street in the late 19th century, were
installed as part of a county and town project.
The tradition of decorating for the holidays with natural materials and lighted candles in the windows began
long ago with the Tappan Reformed Church and the Volunteer Fire Association of Tappan. Over the years,
many of the homes, restaurants, and businesses have joined in keeping this tradition alive. This year, on a
walk or drive around the historic district you will see natural wreaths, swags, and roping adorning many of
the building, and many places aglow with the soft illumination of candles in the windows.
THS members decorating lamp posts in the Tappan historic district. From left: Dottie
Kilroy, Joe Napoli and Michael Desmond. (photo by Marilyn Schauder)
Kilroy, Joe Napoli and Michael Desmond. (photo by Marilyn Schauder)
Annual Dinner and Achievement Awards 2016
| ELM TREE DEDICATION MAY 7, 2016 11:30 am DeWint House Grounds Please come to the dedication of an American Elm tree on the DeWint House grounds just across from the bridge on Oak Tree Road by the Tappan Memorial Park. The elm tree is a gift from the Town of Orangetown to the DeWint House upon completion of the Oak Tree Bridge Project. It has been planted 100 feet to the south of the site of the historic Tar Barrel Elm, which stood in the middle of Oak Tree Road and served as a beacon during the Revolutionary War. On May 7, 1783, a flaming tar barrel was hoisted to a high limb of the elm tree, and the black smoke signaled to the surrounding countryside that negotiations between General George Washington and Sir Guy Carleton, British Commander-in-Chief, for the evacuation of British troops had been completed successfully. It was the first and only time the tree had been used for that purpose. Following the ceremony, an exhibit of the Tar Barrel Elm will be on display in the Tappan Library Local History Room. White dogwood seedlings will be given out by the Tappantown Historical Society at the library to commemorate the occasion. All are welcome, especially children. A white dogwood seedling makes a lovely Mother’s Day gift. |
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Tappan Memorial Day Parade on May 30, 2016
On Monday May 30, 2016 the members of the Tappantown Historical Society were joined by an authentic ensemble performing
traditional military music of the American Revolution to march in the Tappan Memorial Day parade.
The First New York Regiment Fife and Drum Duo features Eric Lichack on the fife and Peter Cutel on the drum.
On Monday May 30, 2016 the members of the Tappantown Historical Society were joined by an authentic ensemble performing
traditional military music of the American Revolution to march in the Tappan Memorial Day parade.
The First New York Regiment Fife and Drum Duo features Eric Lichack on the fife and Peter Cutel on the drum.
| Tappantown Historical Society invites you to our 32nd Annual COLONIAL DAY Saturday, September 24, 2016 from 12PM to 5PM at the DeWint House ( Oak Tree Road and Livingston Street , Tappan , NY 10983 ) Step back in time and visit Colonial America... Come see Colonial Army Re-enactors and Encampment Soldiers Colonial Singers and Dancers Quilting Embroidery Lacemaking See a Blacksmith, Wood Carver, Bee Keeper and Soap Maker. Ladies and Gentlemen in Colonial Attire preparing for Winter in the DeWint House Kitchen For the children: apple pressing, stenciling, candle-dipping, spinning, butter-making, Colonial Apron Making, writing with quill pen Farm Animals Sheep Shearer Tour The Carriage House Museum and DeWint House REFRESHMENTS AVAILABLE LIMITED ON-SITE PARKING (priority given to disabled) FREE ADMISSION |
| The 51st Annual Meeting of the Tappantown Historical Society Friday, November 4, 2016 7:30 pm DeWint Carriage House Get on board with Allan Seebach, Jr. as he takes us back to the beginnings of the West Shore Rail Road in Tappan.
the DeWint Carriage House.There will a brief business meeting, which includes the President’s Annual Report, the Treasurer’s Report, and the election officers and directors.
An Historical Review of the West Shore Railroad in Tappan Train Historian Allan Seebach, Jr. will talk about the history of the West Shore line in Tappan using maps and scale models of the trains and structures along the railroad in Tappan, which will be display for the evening in the Carriage House. |
| Tappantown Historical Society invites you to our 33rd Annual COLONIAL DAY Saturday, September 23, 2017 from 12PM to 5PM at the DeWint House ( Oak Tree Road and Livingston Street , Tappan , NY 10983 ) Step back in time and visit Colonial America... Come see Colonial Army Re-enactors and Encampment Soldiers Colonial Singers and Dancers Quilting Embroidery Lacemaking See a Blacksmith, Wood Carver, Bee Keeper and Soap Maker. Ladies and Gentlemen in Colonial Attire preparing for Winter in the DeWint House Kitchen For the children: apple pressing, stenciling, candle-dipping, spinning, butter-making, Colonial Apron Making, writing with quill pen Farm Animals Sheep Shearer Tour The Carriage House Museum and DeWint House REFRESHMENTS AVAILABLE LIMITED ON-SITE PARKING (priority given to disabled) FREE ADMISSION |
| The 52nd Annual Meeting of the Tappantown Historical Society Friday, November 3, 2017 at 7:30 pm DeWint Carriage House 52nd Annual Meeting The Tappantown Historical Society invites you to the Society’s 52nd Annual Meeting on Friday, November 3, 2017, at 7:30 pm in the DeWint Carriage House. There will a brief business meeting, which includes the President’s Annual Report, the Treasurer’s Report, and the election officers and directors. Program — 8pm The Tappan: A People and a Place In this lecture/slide show, Mi'kmaq/Celtic author and award winning historian Evan Pitchard will discuss the Tappan as a river people of the Algonquin nations who thrived here for centuries, and also explore Tappan as a place name with a multi-cultural variety of meanings. He will unveil a newly-published map of Rockland County entitled "Here Before Us," revealing many Algonquin settlements, trails and waterways throughout the county, including their original names in the Lenape language. There will be a brief Q and A, followed by book signing. Please come and enjoy yourselves. Guests are welcome. As always, there will be tasty food and drink compliments of THS. |
| Celebrating Our 52nd Annual Dinner and Achievement Awards 2018 The Tappantown Historical Society begs leave to inform you that on Sunday, February 25, 2018 commencing at FIVE THIRTY sharp in the evening there will be good food and victuals at The Old '76 House. (Click Here to View and Print the Invitation) |
Saturday, March 24, 2018 New Jersey Pack 335 - Webelos 1 Den Cub Scouts were present at the Dewint House for
an educational morning on Historic Tappan. They were given the usual excellent background of the Dewint House
and Carriage Building by Mr. Jones followed by a walk through the town:
an educational morning on Historic Tappan. They were given the usual excellent background of the Dewint House
and Carriage Building by Mr. Jones followed by a walk through the town:
| Tappantown Historical Society invites you to our 34th Annual COLONIAL DAY Saturday, September 29, 2018 from 12PM to 5PM at the DeWint House ( Oak Tree Road and Livingston Street, Tappan NY 10983 ) Step back in time and visit Colonial America... Come see Colonial Army Re-enactors and Encampment Soldiers Colonial Singers and Dancers Quilting Embroidery Lacemaking See a Blacksmith, Wood Carver, Bee Keeper and Soap Maker. Ladies and Gentlemen in Colonial Attire preparing for Winter in the DeWint House Kitchen For the children: apple pressing, stenciling, candle-dipping, spinning, butter-making, Colonial Apron Making, writing with quill pen Farm Animals Sheep Shearer Tour The Carriage House Museum and DeWint House REFRESHMENTS AVAILABLE LIMITED ON-SITE PARKING (priority given to disabled) FREE ADMISSION |
| Colonial Day Cancelled Dear THS Members and Supporters, With great reluctance, we are cancelling Colonial Day because the recent rain fall on Tuesday and Wednesday night has made the DeWint House grounds very soggy and unstable in some areas. With the forecast for more rain, heavy at times, for Thursday night and Friday, the grounds won’t have time to dry out by Saturday. So, even though Saturday is supposed to be sunny (of course!), the grounds may not be able to support heavy foot and car traffic. Tappantown Historical Society |