The new book Skohere and the Birth of New York’s Western Frontier 1609-1731, Vol. I 1609-1686 (self-published, 2022) by Jeff O’Connor is a history of the Schoharie Valley and the people who helped shape its earliest colonial history.
The Schoharie Valley is one of New York’s three great colonial valleys, its history closely connected to, but overshadowed by, the more famed Hudson and Mohawk Valleys. This first volume begins a sweeping narrative that connects a far-reaching network of people, places, and events to an expansive view of New York State history.
Amidst the backdrop of warfare, European ambitions, and Indigenous People trying to navigate a new geopolitical landscape, the book looks at those who impacted the course of settlement in New Netherland, the early years of New York, and “ownership” of the Schoharie Valley.
Volume I concludes with the first attempted purchase of valley land by a man misidentified as Andrew Brown. His true identity is unveiled, one of many revelations that will enhance, alter, and challenge accepted history throughout the series.
Jeff O’Connor is an authority on Schoharie County’s colonial and Revolutionary War history with a long association with historical organizations and sites. Author of The Old Stone Fort-Guardian of Schoharie County’s History Since 1772, he and his wife operate Turning Point 1777, providing walking and driving tours of Schoharie County, popular speaking events, historical flag reproductions, and living history.
Book noticed at New York Almanack have been provided by their publishers.
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