Historian Jeff O’Connor of Turning Point 1777 is set to present “The Restless Palatines of Schoharie Valley” at the Old Stone Fort Museum on Saturday, June 1 at 1 pm.
This interactive program will incorporate the grounds of the museum, as well as the surrounding landscape, to help illustrate key elements of early Palatine experiences in the valley.
O’Connor will use the museum complex’s New World Dutch Barn and Hartman’s Dorf House to highlight and help participants visualize Palatine lifestyle and aspirations during their stay in the Schoharie Valley. The grounds and surrounding landscape, which were once part of Foxes Dorf, help illustrate parts of the story that are not well known.
O’Connor’s research about the early colonial period of Schoharie County for a book project provides fresh perspectives and new insights into the Palatine experience in the Schoharie Valley.
The narrative will combine visual landmarks with documentary evidence to explore the locations and history of the first churches, roads, mills, and other elements of development nearby.
The Palatines who came to the Schoharie Valley beginning in the fall of 1712 were German immigrants who were under contract to produce naval stores for the British Navy in the Hudson Valley. The project was abandoned and the Palatines were told to shift for themselves.
By 1731, a majority of Palatines removed to Pennsylvania or the Mohawk Valley. This period of conflict will be examined throughout the presentation.
Access is included with regular admission to the museum. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and active duty military, $3 for students ages 5-17 and free for children under the age of 5.
Turning Point 1777 is the husband and wife team of Jeff and Pam O’Connor, who interpret colonial and Revolutionary War history through guided walking and driving tours in Schoharie County as well as other services. Jeff O’Connor is currently working on a book entitled “Skohere – and the Birth of New York’s Western Frontier 1609-1731.” For more info on this and other activities from Turning Point 1777, click here.
The Old Stone Fort Museum Complex is located in the village of Schoharie at 145 Fort Road. The museum is open daily from May 1 through Oct. 31.
For more information on the Old Stone Fort Museum and the numerous events and activities planned throughout their 130th Anniversary year visit their website, or call (518) 295-7192.
Photo of New World Dutch Barn and Hartmans Doft House at Old Stone Fort Museum provided.
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