The “Land System of Colonial New York” article published recently in the New York Almanack prompts the thought that some things, if ever, are slow to change. As the article’s author points out, land was seen as a commodity and many in power kept substantial portions and then distributed the rest to their best advantage. Then, as now, they applied their version of the golden rule – them that have the gold rule. [Read more…] about In Search of a Land Ethic and Sustainable Planet
John D. Rockefeller: Tree Farmer Extraordinaire
When the name John D. Rockefeller Sr. captures someone’s attention the mind usually pictures the famous – or infamous depending on one’s view of 19th century capitalism – late oil baron and once world’s richest man.
Someone more versed on his life might recall Rockefeller’s love for the game of golf. However, John D. was also a passionate and prolific tree farmer and landscaper on his 3,000 acre Kykuit estate bordering the Hudson River near Pocantico Hills, in the Westchester County town of Mount Pleasant, NY. [Read more…] about John D. Rockefeller: Tree Farmer Extraordinaire
New York’s Oldest Standing Log Cabin?
During the American Revolution in August 1778, given advanced warning of an impending raid by Loyalist and their Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) allies, scores of families around Pakatakan (Margaretville, in the town of Middletown, Delaware County, NY) began leaving their homes to seek shelter with families and friends near Kingston. [Read more…] about New York’s Oldest Standing Log Cabin?