Red Rock School
I found some mentions of the Red Rock school (as well as the Church schools) in my resources.
Emphasis added.
1876-08-24 Picnic in the Grove of Mr. W. D. Stewart
RED ROCK.
The Sabbath-school connected with the Christian church, will hold its annual picnic in the grove of Mr. W. D. Stewart on Wednesday the 30th. The Sabbath-school of New Britain is expected to unite in the festival. A general invitation is extended to all who desire to share in the pleasures of the occasion.
As J. D. Park, with his mother, wife and little daughter, was driving to church on Sunday last, the harness broke just as they reached the top of what is known as Park' hill letting the wagon against the horse, who immediately began to run. The driver kept the horse in the road as best he could, and the whole party took a fearful ride down the hill, around a curve, and across the bridge on the lower side of which was a deep ravine. After running about 20 rods beyond the bridge the horse fell, and thus his race was brought to a close with only slight damage to the horse and wagon. The escape of the party from serious injury was marvelous and providential. It was with some degree of satisfaction that Mr. Park remembered his accident policy in the Traveler’s Insurance company.
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Transcribed 2022-07-15 from: the Chatham Courier, August 24, 1876, Page 3
1898-01-12 John Howes Attending Court at Hudson
RED ROCK.
Mrs. M. L. Stickles has a severe attack of inflammation of the eyes.
Adelbert Ford, Lucius Harmon and John Howes are attending court at Hudson.
Remember the oyster supper at E. N. Stickles' Thursday night, Jay. 18, for the Christian church.
The entertainment given at Spencertown by local talent a short time ago, will be reproduced in the Christian church here Jan. 18.
The annual meeting of the Christian church was held Monday, Jan. 10. The following officers were elected: Pulpit committee, S. S. Wilcox, Mrs. Frank Frisbee; trustees, J. B. Lamoree, H. Sherill, Ellis Ford. The Sabbath school was reorganized. Mrs Lucius Harmon is superintendent and Mrs. David Burrows assistant.
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From the 1898-01-12 Chatham Courier, page 5
1898-11-02 John Howes House to be Razed
RED ROCK.
L. D. Harmon has a boy from Albany to assist about the farm and attend school.
Mr. and Mrs. J. R. Histon and Mrs. Lorinda Stickles were recent guests at E. N. Stickles.
Mr. Duplain has purchased the house of John Howes and is razing it to be raised elsewhere.
The Ashley Blinn farm lately owned by Blinn & Cookingham has been sold to Alex Lape and a collier, price $712. The wood will be turned into charcoal.
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From: Chatham Courier, 1898-11-02, page 5
Many Men of Note...
Many men of note were born and received a part of their education within the limits of the present school district. Among these were judges, members of state legislatures, lawyers, ministers, doctors and school teachers. Of judges were Hon. John Cadman and Hon. Hiram D. Ford. Dr. Elias W. Bostwick and Col. Philetus W. Bishop were members of our state legislature and Dr. Samuel M. Reynolds of the state legislature of Massachusetts. Of ministers were Elders David Ford and Rufus Howes of the Christian church and James M. Jenkins of the Methodist church. Dr. Richard Beebe, Dr. Elias W. Bostwick and Dr. Samuel M. Reynolds, all of whom were born and brought up here became noted physicians. Col. Sidney W. Park of Albany, who commanded the 125th Regt. N. Y. State Infantry in the civil war was born here.
Of the early school teachers most of whom had their birthplace here, were Joseph G. Ford, Frederick Manley, H. D. Ford, Edward Pierson, Joseph C. Ford, J. W. Braman, Miss Lucy Palmer of New Concord, and later the Vanderburg brothers, Edgar, John and Richard, William Sweet, Dr. Richard Beebe, Dr. Elias W. Bostwick, William and Asher Goodrich and still later Rowland T. Ford, Miss Anna Pettit, (afterwords, Mrs. F. V. Burrows), Miss Ellen Harmon, (afterwards Mrs.William Finch) and many others of whom the limits of this paper will not permit a mention. Of the teachers who have gone out from this school district their name is legion.
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From Red Rock Celebrates its 150th Anniversary
1905-08-02 James Coxon School Dist. Clerk
Austerlitz Dist. No. 4, village district Trustee W. O. Palmer; collector. Wm. Varney; clerk,- Geo. Bennett. Tax voted $276.25. Sprague Dist. No. 5, trustee, Horace Bailey; collector, F. Reusch; clerk, M. E. Sprague, Tax $191 ????...
Red Rock, trustee, Arthur Belding; collector, Austin Ford; clerk, James Coxon.
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From: School Trustees column, Chatham Semi-Weekly Courier, pg4, 1905-08-02
1913-01-31 James Coxon Caught a Butterfly
RED ROCK
School Reopens — Met With Peculiar Accident — Caught a Butterfly on the Last Day of January.
School commenced Tuesday with Kathleen Fearon, of Chatham, as teacher.
Mrs. Esek Finch, of Queechy, is spending the week with relatives.
Mrs. Robert Sharp has a very sore finger caused by the drop-head of her sewing machine falling heavily upon the member and almost severing it.
Miss Phoebe Harmon is very seriously ill with gangrene. Dr. Washburn is in attendance.
Richard Beebe, of Pittsfield, spent Sunday with his grandparents.
James Coxon caught a butterfly on January 31.
The Ladies' Aid society will meet with Mrs. J. D. Parke, Wednesday, Feb. 12.
J. K. Wager has returned to W. E. Park's.
Wm. Smith, of North Egremont, was a recent guest of Wm. Burrow's.
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Transcribed from: The Hudson Evening Register, Wednesday, February 5, 1913, Red Rock column
1915-01-06 Annual Meeting of Christian Society and Red Rock Cemetery
RED ROCK.
The annual meeting of the Christian society and Red Rock cemetery association will be held at the Christian church on Monday, Jan. 11 at 10 o'clock and 3 p. m.
It is expected that district superintendent W. F. Compton will be present at the M. E. church services on Sunday, Jan. 10th at 2 p. m.
Mr. and Mrs A D Ford are visiting their son, John and family in Brewster.
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Sharp recently entertained W. Sharp and bride of Hancock.
Mrs. Edward Webster and son of Dalton, Miss., are visiting at Lester Webster's.
School opened Jan. 4th.
Juggler Brothers of Richmond who have been drawing wood from Fog Hill for some months lost a valuable horse on New Years day. The horse was taken ill very suddenly while drawing a load near John Howes' and died in a few minutes.
Miss. Ida Spencer of Chatham was a recent guest at C. H. Ford's.
John Howes has returned from H. Battershall's near Chatham.
Joseph Dudoire is visiting in New York.
Robert Sharp and family spent New Years day in Chatham Center.
Mrs. Sweet has been visiting her son who has been quite ill.
The Rev. Dr. Compton will preach in the Red Rock church next Sunday afternoon at the usual hour. If the train is late it may be necessary for the congregation to wait a few minutes beyond the regular time. Please stay until Dr. Compton arrives. All are invited.
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From 1915-01-06 Chatham Courier, page 3
1915-05-12 School Officers Elected
At the school meeting of district No. 2 the following officers were elected: Trustee, John Howes; clerk James Coxon; collector, Mrs. A. H. Ford.
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From: Red Rock column, Chatham Courier, pg8, 1915-05-12
1915-06-02 John Howes Resigns From School Board
RED ROCK.
A special school meeting will be held at the school house Tuesday, June 7th for the purpose of electing a trustee to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of John Howes.
Earl Wright of Westfield, Mass., was a recent guest at B L Bemis Miss Gertrude Carpenter of State Line has been visiting at Harry Gleason's.
Mrs. Wallace and Miss E. Wallace of New York were over Sunday guests at Mrs. J. D. Parke's.
Miss Schermerhorn and pupils and friends enjoyed a picnic Wednesday the last day of school. Miss Schermerhorn has accepted a position in a school near Rochester.
Mr. and Mrs. A. M. Beebe and daughter of Pittsfield spent Sunday at G. L. Beebe's.
Mr. and Mrs. L. I. Schwarz have returned to New York and expect to start June 7th for the Exposition.
R. Sharp and family spent Sunday in Chatham Center.
Sydney Jones of Pittsfield was a Memorial day guest at D. J. Jones.
John McGowan of New York spent Sunday at his home here.
Michael Kane is ill.
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From: The Chatham Courier, Page 6, 1915-06-02
1915-12-01 John Howes & John Coxon Return From Ashley Falls
RED ROCK.
Miss Kathryne Kittle of Chatham has been visiting her sister, Mrs. J. H. Jenkins.
School closed Wednesday noon until Monday morning. Mr. Engalls visited his home Westerlo.
John Howes and grandson, John Coxon have returned home having spent several days in Ashley Falls.
Joseph Stone and family and Mrs. James Coxon spent Sunday in Ashley Mass., making the trip in Mr. Stone's auto.
Arthur Beebe of Pittsfield spent Sunday with. his parents, Mr. and Mrs. G. L. Beebe.
The Ladies' Aid society will meet with Mrs. Addie Pettit Wednesday afternoon, Dec. 8.
Little Doris Burrows of Chatham is spending some time with her grand parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Burrows.
Miss May Gibbins expects to return home from Red Lion Inn at Stockbridge this week and in a few days will leave for Palm Beach, Fla.
Thanksgiving guests: Mr. and Mrs Alex Bartlett at Arthur Philips' in Rockdale; Charles Stever and family at William Howard's in Chatham; Mr McGowan of New York at his home; Mr. and Mrs. Lundstin at Mr. Geberth's in Albany; Misses Ruth and Grace Gibbins with friends in Albany; Richard Beebe of Pittsfield at G. L. Beebe's; William Campbell and family of Lenox Dale at Charles Briggs'; Adam, Andrew and Charles Stumpf and Miss Libbie Willig at Charles Willig's; L. W. Pitcher and family at Esek Finch's in Queechy and Robert Sharp and family at Alex Lape's in Frisbee Street.
Andrew Freehan of East Chatham has been visiting his daughter, Mrs. Charles Willig.
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From 1915-12-01 Chatham Courier, page 2
1916-01-12 Recalling Woman Suffrage Debate at Schoolhouse
WOMAN SUFFRAGE DEBATE HELD IN 1849
RED ROCK SCHOOLHOUSE WAS SCENE OF THE ARGUMENT.
Mrs. Delia Reynolds Barrett Tells of Bygone Days—The First Train—Stage Coach Days—The Early Churches—Received Dollar a Week as Teacher and "Boarded 'Round."
...
At one time in Red Rock there was a district school with an attendance, of sixty students.[1] Rev. Mr. Manley was at one time both preacher and teacher there. Mrs. Barrett was a teacher in this school when she was sixteen years old. She has a certificate of competence and for several years she taught during summer terms on Macedonia. Her school usually consisted of nine scholars. It was her duty to collect the money from the parents of the pupils, this amount depending on the number of days the children attended. She received one dollar a week salary and “boarded ’round,” usually staying a week in a home. In some instances she was glad when the week ended and correspondingly depressed when it again came time to spend a week with that particular family. She recalls that one of her pupils was a girl named Holdridge who was less than four years old.
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From Woman Suffrage Debate Held in 1849
[1] This implies the school closed before 1916. Is she talking about a different school or is it just an unfortunate turn of phrase? My dad went to school there through the 8th grade. The Jan. 18, 1923 Chatham Courier, on pg.11, Red Rock column, includes in Red Rock School Notes "Honors earned for the month of December at Red Rock school: Arithmetic grade 8—Kenneth Ford, 90; John Coxon, 90; William Clarkson, 93.” etc. so the school was open at least through the 1922/23 school year. jhc
1916-03-08 John Howes Organ Moved to School House
RED ROCK.
Elmer Jones who has been spending some time with his father, D. J. Jones, has returned to Hobart, N. Y.
An organ belonging to John Howes has been moved to the school house for the benefit of Mr. Ingalls and pupils.
Mr. and Mrs. Esek Finch of Queechy spent Saturday at L. W. Pitcher's.
The social held at the Goodrich homestead Friday evening was well attended and added $8.25 to the treasury.
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From 1916-03-08 Chatham Courier, page 6
1918-05-15 John Howes Visited the Farm on Business
RED ROCK.
The Rev. Frederick Kline will preach in the Christian church next Sunday. morning, May 19, at 10:30 o'clock. All are welcome and it is hoped he will be welcomed by a large congregation.
John Howes of Ashley Falls made a business trip to the farm last week.
Harry Gleason has resumed his weekly trips to Red Lion Inn, Stockridge, with eggs.
H. M. Pitcher has sold his Ford to Clarence Crockwell of New Concord.
At the annual election of officers of the M. E. Sunday school the following were elected: Superintendent Mrs. William Lamoree; assistant superintendent, Mrs. Jacob Linker, secretary and treasurer, Miss Nellie Webster; organist, E. S. Howes.
Mr. and Mrs. Willian Smith spent a few days at Henry Christman's in North Egremont last week.
Charles Fuller is. ill.
James Coxon of Pittsfield has been spending. a few days at the Howes homestead.
Mrs. William Burrows has returned from North Egremont where she was called by the serious illness of her little grand daughter, Pearl Christman.
The Ladies Aid society will meet with Mrs. J. H. Jenkins Thursday, May 23d. A good attendance is requested.
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From 1918-05-15 Chatham Courier, page 2
1922-01-26 Stanley Kellogg Filling His Ice House From John Howes' Pond
GREEN RIVER
School opened Monday after a week's vacation.
Those who have been filling their ice houses from the Oar Bed pond are J. F. Dunn, Charles Post, Geo. German, Charles Owens, Seward Doty, M. O'Connors, Stanley Kellogg is filling his from John Howe's pond in Austerlitz.
Mrs. McCourt has returned from New Britain where she was called by the illness and death of her son.
Mr. McCourt has returned from New York where he was called by the death of his mother.
John Dunn hurt his foot quite badly by dropping a cake of ice on it.
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From the 1922-01-26 Chatham Courier, page 9
1922-05-11 C. W. Coxon & John Howes Visit at James Coxon's
FOG HILL
Cornelius King of Long Island City spent several days last week at James Coxon's.
Mrs. Nadler, and son John and Freda Nadler spent Sunday in Canaan.
C. W. Coxon and family of Hudson and John Howes of Ashley Falls Mass, were recent visitors at James Coxon's.
Hugo Nadler received a shipment of 500 grape vines last week which he is setting out on his farm.
Arbor day exercises were observed by the school Friday.
Mrs. E. M. Dedrick of Springfield was an over Sunday guest at A. McCaggs.
Mrs. A. McCagg spent last Wednesday at Wm. Quinn's in West Stockbridge.
Robert Sweet has purchased an auto Hugo Nadler and son John spent Saturdav in Pittsfield.
The Misses Ruth, Elsie and Rachel Carpenter who have been spending several weeks at E. C. Carpenters, have gone to Glendale to visit their aunt.
Mr. and Mrs. E. C. Carpenter spent Sunday at Harry Alexander's in West Center.
Geo. D. Powell spent Monday in Hudson.
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From 1922-05-11 Chatham Courier, page 13
Christian Church 100th Historical Pagent
...
Episode number one in the historical pageant in the afternoon will represent a meeting of neighbors in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Amos Starks. Stephen Soule urges the organization of a new church. Starks is at first doubtful of the success of such project but is finally convinced. At this point David Ford suggests calling in conference three elders from Kinderhook. This meets the approval of all present and Starks writes and dispatches to them an invitation.
Episode number two represents a meeting in the school-house near Reuben Jenkins' home. The elders arrive and address the gathering and a church organization is perfected, seven charter members signing the roll.
The third episode represents the olden-time singing school which part and parcel of churches in the bygone years, the members of this school being impersonated by the Red Rock choral club.
The fourth and final episode represents the exercises that were held in connection with opening the new church.
...
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From Christian Church Centennial Celebration
Austerlitz & District Schools
HISTORY OF AUSTERLITZ
BY H. D. HARVEY, HILLSDALE, N. Y.
Continued from last week
...
Schools
The school house originally stood some distance north of the present location, opposite the residence of the late George Peterson, and was removed to its present location by him some years ago. The building was then a very old one, I remember it sixty five years ago, then a very old building, so that the original frame which is still with us, must be well over a hundred years old, and probably nearly that when I attended school there in 1857. That Austerlitz once had an academy is probably known to but few persons now living. It was located just north of the Presbyterian church, between that and the road leading to West Stockbridge, and was burned somewhere about 1845. It was in operation but a few years and was only a small building. In those days all such higher schools were maintained solely by those attending, the state giving no support.
District schools were also supported principally by those attending although the state gave some support to these schools in the way of public money. At the close of the school term a rate bill was made out, each scholar being charged pro-rata for the number of days attendance, the teacher receiving no compensation until the close of the school and the tax had been collected. In those days school was in session six days in a week, but about 1860 the custom of keeping school on every other Saturday was inaugurated. It being stipulated in the contract whether the teacher should hold school each Saturday or only on alternate Saturdays, in a few years Saturday sessions were eliminated entirely.
H. D. HARVEY HILLSDALE, N. Y.
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From The Chatham Courier https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/lccn/sn83031284/1922-09-14/ed-1/seq-6
1922-12-14 Red Rock School Honors
Red Rock School Notes
The following in the Red Rock school receive honors for the month of November.
Spelling—Franklin Lamoree, 97; George Coxon, 90; Edward Black, 90; George Gotham, 93; John Conon9(sic), 94; Charles Briggs, 91; Tyler Gleason, 95; Helen Linker, 97; Lewis Jones, 91; Alexander Dolisher(sic), 92; William Clarkson, 99; Kenneth Ford, 99; Margaret Gorham, 97.
Arithmetic—George Coxon, 97; Franklin Lamoree, 97; Edward Black, 91; George Gorham, 95; Ernest Gleason, 92; John Coxon, 90; Tyler Gleason, 90; Alexander Doleski, 95; William Clarkson, 96; Kenneth Ford, 90; Ernest Tweedy, 92.
English— Charles Briggs, 95; John Coxon, 90; George Gorham, 90.
—
From: Red Rock column, Chatham Courier, pg11, 1922-12-14
1923-01-18 Red Rock School Honors
Red Rock School Notes
Honors earned for the month of December at Red Rock school:
Arithmetic grade 8—Kenneth Ford, 90; John Coxon, 90; William Clarkson, 93.
Grade 7—Ernest Gleason, 92;
Grade 5—George Gorham, 99; Geo. Coxon, 96; Tyler Gleason, 97; Franklyn Lamoree, 99.
Grade 3—Charles Briggs, 90.
Spelling, Grade 3(sic)—William Clarkson, 99; John Coxon, 97; Kenneth Ford, 99.
Grade 7—Earnest Gleason, 99; Edward Black, 97;
Grade 5—Tyler Gleason, 99; George Coxon, 98; George Gorham, 92; Franklyn Lamoree, 96; Lewis Jones, 100.
Grade 2—Edwin Levy, 96; Ernest Tweedy, 100;
English, Grade 5—George Gorham, 91; George Coxon, 90;
Grade 3—Charles Briggs, 93; Alexander Doleski, 91.
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From: Red Rock column, Chatham Courier, pg11, 1923-01-18
1926-01 George & John Coxon Passed the Regents
Regents Results:
The following passed the Regents in Geography. Those marked N.R. are non-residents: L'Marie Levick, Helen Murphy, Gertrude Berr n. r., George Coxon n. r., John Coxon n. r., John Griswold n. r., Lewis Kirby n. r., Minnie Kuhmist n. r., Nicholas Perry n. r., Lavancha Reed n. r., Patrick Slattery n. r., Robert White n. r.
The following passed Spelling: Martha Alvord, Viola Belcher, Rita Dowd, Arthur Eberle, Edith Gallup, Marion Garner, Delmar Goodrich, Welcome Gott, Ruth Hanor, Nelson Hoffman, Mary Hogle, Delbert Loomis, Irene Lee, L'Marie Levick, Everett Marston, Helen MeGuire, Helen Murphy, Josephine Navarra, Madeline Ostrander, Walter Palmer, Estella Pulver, Elinor Shay, George Shultis, Ella Staats, Laura Staats, Edna Strever, De Witt Tubbs, non-residents: Frances Barringer, Charles Belding. Ruth Bristol, Frances Cockrell, Kenneth Freehan, Forde Gathan, George Gorham, John Griswold, Leona Hand, Frank Hatch, Edith Jenks, Minnie Kuhmist, James Leonard, Agnes Pettit, John Quinion, Lavancha Reed, Patrick Slattery, Charles Wagner, Sylvester Walker, Marcella Williams.
Arithmetic: Martha Alvord, Rita Dowd, Edith Gallop, Delmar Goodrich, Ruth Haner, Nelson Hoffman, Mary Hoke, Wm. Knapp, Delbert Loomis, Everett Marston, Madeline Ostrander, Walter Palmer, Earl Sitzer, Caroline Sharp, George Shultis, Ella Staats Laura Staats, Edna Strever, De hitt Tubbs, Ernest Van Buren, Malcolm Van Loan.
Non Resident: Estephan Dellea, Clara Hoch, Martin Mordenstein, Lavancha Reed.
Reading: Raymond Brown, Beatrice Decker, Caroline Sharp, Helen Moore. Non-rosidents: Charles Belding, Frances Cockrell, Kenneth Freehan, Forde Gathan, Clara Hoch, James Levnard, Martin Morgenstein, John Quinion, Lavancha Read, Michael Tinger.
Elem. U. S. History with Civics: Madeline Potter. Non residents: Lewis Bemiss, Robert Butcher, John Coxon, Kenneth Freehan, Vincent Stratford, Sylvester Walker, Wilho Wilska.
Elem. English: Non residents: Lewis Bemiss, Robert Butcher, Frances Cockrell, Kenneth Freehan, Forde Gathan, Clara Hoch, James Leonard, Martin Morganstein, John Quinion.
High School. Elem. Algebra: Ruth Armitage, David Dardess, James Drumgoole, Donald Barnes, Gerald Hartigan: Harry Hogeboom, Beatrice Casey, Dorothy McGuire, Agnes Moore, Susan Craft, Kathryn Moore, Andrew Pinkerton, Madeline Potter, Lilian Rowe, Frances Shapiro, Mildred Stone, Dorothy White.
Physics: Hazel Sharp.
Int. Algebra: Joseph Barry, Robert Jenkins, Julia Oles, Elsie Rundell, Ellwynne Vreeland.
Civics: Elizabeth Tank. Allen Van Alstyne,, Frederick Willis, Herbert Young, Marie Bell, Doris Burrows, Mary Callahan, Evelyn Christensen, Susan Craft, Violet Cruden, Everett Dunton, George Flood. Ethel Goodrich, Maida Goodrich, Jesse Johnson, Richard Johnson, Frederick Laing, Perry Miller, Walter Quinion, Peter Raup, Thorn Silliman, George Southard, Vina Staron, Katherine Steuerwald, Alice Stone.
Solid Geometry, Wm. Beyer.
Biology: Mary Connell, Susan Craft, Laura Gathen, Sarah Van Alstyne, Grace Wolfe.
History C: Esther Dowd, Margaret Mowbray. Marian Mowbray.
Plane Geometry: Bertha Vosburgh.
There were 59 pupils from 19 different school districts here for examinations.
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From: Chatham Courier, 1926-01
1926-03-04 VIOLIN MADE OF CIGAR BOX AND BOW OF HAIR FROM HORSES TAIL
VIOLIN MADE OF CIGAR BOX AND BOW OF HAIR FROM HORSES TAIL
Although Hindered by Many Obstacles, George Coxon of Fog Hill is Determined to Learn to Fiddle.
...
George loves to listen to other musicians and from them has learned several old-time dance pieces which he delights in playing.
He recently displayed his musical ability for the first time in public by contributing a few selections at the dances held in the Piersonville school house.
The interesting part of this is that this school house is next to the former Oscar Vanderburg place where Amos Jackson first displayed his talent at the age of fourteen years.
Who knows but what George when an old man, may play in some contest and win a prize or, like Mollie Dunham, may fiddle for some future industrial magnate such as Henry Ford?
X. Y. Z
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From: Uncle George and the Cigar Box Fiddle
1926-08-05 Piersonville Would Have Best Country School
Piersonville
The many friends of Fred Goodrich Sr., will regret to learn that he is again in poor health.
WOULD HAVE BEST COUNTRY SCHOOL
Such is Aim of Residents of Piersonville District Near Chatham.
Joseph Dudoire, trustee of the district school in Piersonville, between Chatham and Red Rock, says an effort is being made to have this the best equipped one-room school in New York state and it is hoped to accomplish this end without resort to additional taxation on the district property. Funds are being raised holding lawn parties, by suppers and other public gatherings and because the residents of the district are cooperating with him, they are well patronized and are decidedly successful. At present it is desired to have the school building wired for electric lighting and a new floor laid. The proceeds of ice cream sales bought a piano and a Victrola was also provided as were pictures and other furnishings and equipment. Because of the rather unusual interest the parents and friends, of the pupils are taking, it is believed the goal for which they are striving will be reached.
On Tuesday evening, of this week an ice cream sale was held on the grounds and about 100 people attended although the event had very limited advertising. Next week Tuesday evening, August 10, there is to be another ice cream and cake sale and a dance will also be held.
This is one of the smallest schools in the county. Last spring there were but six scholars and when school opened last fall there were but two. This number was considerably increased, however, during the winter. The attendance will be larger during the coming school year inasmuch as there are now more children in the district than formerly. Mrs. Lester Goodrich has been the teacher for several years. Inasmuch as she has given excellent satisfaction she has been re-engaged. The district officers are: Trustee, Joseph Dudoire; clerk, Lester Goodrich; treasurer, Eugene Stickles.
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Clipped 2023-07-29 from: The Chatham Courier, Local News, 1926-08-05.
1930-06 Electric Lights Being Installed in School House
RED ROCK
W. L. Decker, of Brooklyn, has been spending several days at Wm. Syre's.
Fred Schiller, of New York, is occupying Mr. Osmer's house on Mt. Pleasant.
Mrs. Warner is visiting her daughter, Mrs. Thayer, in Williamsburg, Mass.
Charles Briggs, Jr. and George Coxon, motored to Lake George on a fishing trip last week.
C. W. Havens and friend of Blue Hill, called on E. S. Howes, Memorial Day.
Miss Hilton is putting an addition on her house. Mr. Crosby, of Chatham, is doing the work.
Franklin Lamoree of Schenectady has been visiting at Mr. Lamoree's.
Mr. Osmers and family of New York, spent Memorial Day at their cottage.
Mr. and Mrs. Winter's of Lee, spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Ford, who are again occupying their bungalow.
Mrs. Briggs and daughter, Mrs. Falkner, motored to Lee, Wednesday.
Mrs. B. L. Bemiss entertained the Ladies Aid society at her home in East Chatham, Wednesday. Eight members attended.
Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Lee and children, Mrs. Lee, Sr. and son, of Yon-kers, spent Memorial Day with Miss Crimmins.
Peter and John Hinchey of Canaan visited at H. Gleason's Memorial Day.
Three parties were held recently.
Twenty friends of DeWitt Stickles surprised him. Games, music and delicious refreshments were enjoyed.
Largely attended parties were held at the homes of Mrs. Black and Mrs. Beecher, Music was furnished by Doyle and Hitchcock.
Messrs Vincent and Wm. Henderson of New York have been visiting their sister, Mrs. Wm. Syre.
Mr. and Mrs. E. L. Woodford, Ashley Falls and Mr. and Mrs. Coxon, of Stottville called at J. W. Coxon's Sunday.
Mr. and Mrs. Danb[sic] and daughter, and Frank Michael, of New York, called here, Sunday.
Mr. and Mrs. Harold Abbott and Mrs. Abbott's parents, of Troy, spent Sunday at Charles Reynold's.
Electric lights are being installed in the school house by Mr. Plass, of Chatham.
Mr. and Mrs. Godfrey Mojo and family of New York have arrived at their cottage for the summer.
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Transcribed from The Courier, Red Rock Column, June 1930
1932-07-21 SOLDIERS OF RED ROCK HONORED IN RECENT ESSAY BY SCHOOL PUPIL
Jane Henderson, of East Chatham, Writes of Service Men Who Lie in Red Rock Cemetery; Grandfather, Civil War Ensign, Shot First Cannon Into Charleston.
A tribute to the service rendered their country by soldiers who now lie in the cemetery in Red Rock is paid in the following essay by Jane Henderson, of East Chatham, which was read recently at exercises in the Red Rock school.
"In the Red Rock Cemetery. lie men who have heroically laid down their lives for their country. To those, and to others who served, we owe a great tribute. Some of these brave men fought in the Revolutionary War, to win freedom from the yoke of England. Later the Civil War was fought to preserve the Union: again residents of our community volunteered and still later the World War was fought and won for, humanity."
The following is a list of names of those who served in the wars, and now rest in Red Rock Cemetery:
Revolutionary War
Asaphm Holdridge, Company G, 46th Regiment of New York, Volunteer Infantry.
Jesse Ford, fought in the battle of Saratoga, and died at Fort Stanwix. He also served during the French and Indian War.
Ezra Parke, Sr. served when but sixteen years of agjke in the war of 1812, and lies in Red Rock Cemetery.
Richard W. Bishop, served in the war of 1812 and was killed in a battle at Plattsburgh, Sept. 15, 1814, at the age of thirty-three years.
Civil War
Vincent F. Burrows, Company H, 91st Regiment, New York Volunteers.
Alonzo Reynolds, Company H, 91st Regiment, New York Volunteers.
Isaac S. Briggs. Regiment 1, New York Volunteers, Mounted Riflemen.
Martin V. Wilcox, private in the 128th New York Volunteers.
Sylvester Pettit, Company 9, Battalion, New York Sharpshooters.
Joseph B. Starks, Company M, G Regiment, New York Mounted Volunteers.
Henry H. Park of the 9th Independent New York Sharpshooters. and Charles Battershall, the latter’s company unknown. lie in the Park-Jenkins Cemetery.
James Griswold, of the New York Cavalry, was a resident of Red Rock but lies in the cemetery at Spencertown.
William Henderson, Sr., my grandfather, served in the navy, during the Civil War, as Ensign on the ship “United States Huron.” It is said that he was the first man to send a cannon shot into Charleston. South Carolina.
World War
Alden Henderson, my cousin, joined the 208th Aero Squad of the United States, but died at Mitchell Field shortly before he was to have gone abroad.
"The following is a copy of the commission granted mv great, great, great grandfather, Jonathan Ford, during the Revolutionary War:"
The Provincial Congress for the Colony of New York, the Twentieth Day of October, 1575.
To Jonathan Ford.. gentleman.. greeting: By virtue of the authority reposed in us. We do hereby nominate, authorize, constitute and appoint you, the said Jonathan Ford, First Lieutenant of the fifth Company of Militia of Foot in the county of Albany whereof Ebenezer Benjamin Esq. is Captain..hereby requiring you, before you enter into the exercise of your said office, to make in writing, and subscribe in presence of the chairman of the committee of the city, town, district, or precinct wherein you reside. The Declaration appointed and directed by the Eleventh Section of the Seventh Resolve contained in the rules and orders for regulating the Militia of the Colony of New York, recommended by this congress on the 22d day of August, 1775, and authorizing you fully to execute all the powers belonging to your said office, by virtue of said rules and orders, and the said Declaration: And we do hereby require all persons under your command, to pay due obedience to you, according to the said rules and orders, and such further rules and orders as shall be made and recommended for the Militia of this Colony, by the present, or any future Continental Congress or Provincial Congress of this Colony. By order. Nath. Woodhull, presid, attested Rob’t. Benson. sec.
One of the residents of Red Rock relates an incident which took place there. during the Civil War.
There were two deserters who came and settled in a cave. now known as "Devil’s Den." One evening they found their way to a watering trough and there found a young girl, whom they told not to reveal that she had seen them; and also requested something to eat. She did as bidden to do, so they stayed all summer, and procured provisions from her.
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Transcribed 2022-10-09 from: The Courier, Fourth Section, Thurs. July 21, 1932.
1933-01-19 LONE BANDIT TERRORIZES RED ROCK AREA; CHASES CHILDREN
For the past three weeks, the residents of Red Rock have been annoyed by a marauder who seems to have taken possession of the hill leading from Red Rock to Macedonia.
Every morning at seven-fifteen he lies in wait for the school children who must take the now perilous route into Red Rock to meet the Chatham High school bus. Lately they arrive at their destination all out of breath, and filled with stories of the narrow escape they have had from the felon.
Young girls walking in this vicinity have been badly frightened by this highwayman, who appears from behind stone walls and thick hedges to chase the girls down the hill, and then returns, to guard his domain.
He is a vain creature, and his beautiful plumage and conceit have gained for him the nickname "Napoleon," an honor which has never before been conferred upon a pheasant.
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Transcribed from the Chatham Courier, January 19, 1933
1933-10-26 Strawberries Ripe In Red Rock
Mother Nature herself seems to have lost her bearings as the result of the extended summer drought in the Red Rock area, followed by a rainy season.
As a proof of her confusion, Mr. Van Alstyne, of Red Rock, is showing his friends a quantity of wild, ripe strawberries and also blossoms which he picked near the school house in his community on October 21.
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Transcribed from the Chatham Courier, October 26, 1933
1935-03-28 Fog Hill Improvement Association
FOG HILL GROUP ELECT LEADERS
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Town Roads Discussed In First Session Of New Association.
The first meeting of the Fog Hill Civic Association, at Austerlitz, was held Monday evening.
The following officers were elected: John B. Mulligan, chairman: Albert F. Schierloh, vice-chairman, and Robert J. Schierloh, secretary. The newly elected officers pledged themselves to do all in their power to further local betterment.
Several matters, the most important of which was the immediate improvement of impassable town roads, were discussed and voted upon.
Among those present were Harry Gleason, of the Red Rock, Improvement Association, who spoke on "Success Through Effort"; James W. Coxon, also of the Red Rock Association, who told of the advantages of organization and Edward Griswold, treasurer of the Red Rock Association.
Mr. Griswold said, "Just such enthusiasm as is shown in this organization is the spirit that brought about the present Red Rock Association." The next meeting will be held in the school house.
[balance cut off]
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Transcribed from The Chatham Courier, March 3, 1935
1946-06-27 Pope Occupies Howes Property
Pope Occupies Howes Property
RED ROCK—Mr. and Mrs. Frank Westover and Nelson Haye of Chatham called at Charles Briggs' last Saturday afternoon.
A number from here attended the combined Red Rock and Piersonville school picnic held at Prospect Lake, Thursday, June 20th.
Mrs. Sidney Levy and children of Brooklyn are spending two weeks at the Michel cottage. Robert Michel of New York city spent the week end there.
Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Briggs of Dalton road, Walter Briggs and J. J. Powell of Pittsfield, Mass.. called at Mrs. R. Hitchcock's, Sunday afternoon.
Sunday callers on Charles Briggs and family were Mr. and Mrs. Frank Bateman of Chatham, Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Briggs of Dalton road and Walter Briggs of Pittsfield.
The teacher, Mrs. Willis, presented a beautiful decorated cake to three of her pupils whose birthdays all occurred in the month of June at the school picnic. They were Hellen Doleski, Jean Fischer and Wee Bell Pultz.
Margaret Bemiss of Chatham has been spending a few days with Wee Bell and Joy Pultz.
L. Mattice and family of Pittsfield spent the week end at their cottage here.
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Curtis spent the week end in Cambridge.
Miss Wee Bell Pultz celebrated her 12th birthday Monday afternoon with a party at her home. Refreshments were served. She was the recipient of many nice gifts.
Mr. and Mrs. Kaiser of New York City were recent callers at J. N. Dudoire's.
Mrs. Paul Kurutz and son have been spending a few days in New York City.
Noreen Ford celebrated her second birthday, June 11th and was presented a cake by Minnie Pitcher of Poughkeepsie. On June 21st Kenneth Arthur Ford celebrated his first birthday. Both children were the recipient of many gifts and cards and a sand box and play pen presented by their grandfather, Chester Ford.
Mrs. Gertrude Knepper and Miss Helen Rubin of Brooklyn spent the week end with Mr. and Mrs. Harry Rubin.
Herma Hess, RN, of New York City spent the week end with Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Stickel.
Clarence Reynolds of Chatham called at Charles and Jesse Reynold's, Sunday.
In the awards by the Red Rock Volunteer Fire Co., the winners were Mrs. Ethel Howes of Frisbee Street, three pairs of Nylons; Mrs. Harold Sawyer of Chatham, five pounds of butter and Mr. Sears of Canaan, three boxes of soap powder.
Noreen Elizabeth Ford and Kenneth Arthur Ford, children of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Ford, were dedicated to the First Baptist Church in Pittsfield, Mass., Sunday afternoon, June 23rd. Rev. Christian B. Jensen presided. Those present were Mr. and Mrs. H. B. Symes of Schenectady. Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Ford and Miss Betty Ford.
Mrs. Tom Davis of Mattositt, Mass., has been visiting her sister, Mrs. Harriet McPherson, at the home of Mrs. Ida Dudoire.
Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Lamoree of Hampton Manor and Mr. and Mrs. James Black of Albany, spent Sunday with Mrs. Elsie Black.
Mrs. E. Black spent Tuesday in Albany.
Mrs. Bartlett and Mrs. Worthington of Chatham Center and Mr. and Mrs. John Gearing of Canaan were recent callers at W. E. Park's.
Mr. and Mrs. Sykes have been entertaining Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Owens and daughters. Nancy and Betsy, of Pittsfield and C. W. Chapman of Albany.
Mr. and Mrs. Close entertained the following guests over the week end: Miss Close of Mt. Vernon, Mrs. Rogers and son of Yonkers, Mr. and Mrs. Murray and son of Larchmont, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Close of New York and Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Close of New Jersey.
Prof. Pope of New York is staying at the place he recently purchased. The two houses on this land were formerly owned and occupied by the late John Howes and Elbridge S. Howes.
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Transcribed from The Chatham Courier, June 27, 1946
1963-03-21 It's Maple Syrup Time in Red Rock
It's Maple Syrup Time in Red Rock
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Correspondent RUBY M. BELDING East Chatham Phone 2-6277
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There is smoke coming out of the chimney of the old sap house and Charles Briggs is now busy making maple syrup. He has not tapped as many trees yet as usual because the snow is too deep. He drives around with milk cans in a box he fastens to the back of his tractor and collects the sap. The old fashioned way was to drive two farm horses hitched to an old woodshed sleigh on which were two barrels to hold the sap. Many is the time, as a girl, your Red Rock correspondent drove her father's horses up the hills and down to wherever the maple trees grew while her father and her brother, Edgar, gathered the sap. It scared her mother to see the places she had to drive, but she got a real thrill out of it.
Erlind Brorup, Red Rock mail carrier is also making maple syrup, but he doesn't use horses or a tractor. His children travel on skis over the deep snow to collect the sap, so we've been told.
—Mr. and Mrs. S. Fred Smilow attended a violin recital given at Carnegie Hall in New York City the evening of March 13, by Robert Gerle. Mr. and Mrs. Gerle recently purchased a summer home in New Concord.
—. R. West and Louis Loons returned home by train from New York City last week. While in the city Mr. Loons called on Mrs. Lena Rubin at her home in Brooklyn. She owns the place where he lives in Red Rock.
—Chester Osborn recently visited Arthur C. Lee Sr.
—Charles Brown was an overnight guest at the Kenneth Fords Friday.
ATTEND CONCERT
—Joan Briggs and Joseph Doyle of Red Reck went with the Chatham Central School band to Fairfield, Conn. on Saturday, March 16. They remained overnight and came home on Sunday.
Many from here attended the Jane Brown-King Van Deusen wedding at the Dutch Reformed Church in Chatham Friday evening. Mrs. Kenneth Ford of Red Rock was matron-on-honor. Jane at one time made her home in Red Reck with her aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. William Syre.
—Mrs. Clarence DeForest is much improved in health and able to be out again.
—James Harding was moved Friday from Columbia Memorial Hospital to Pine Haven, Philmont.
—Mr. and Mrs. Don Moss of Canaan were dinner guests of Mr. and Mrs. S. Fred Smilow Saturday night.
—Due to the great weight of snow on the roof a large part of the barn on the Abraham Hertzberg place collapsed.
—Paul W. Burson is one of the 100 trial jurors directed to report in Hudson on April 1 at 11 a.m. for the April term of Supreme Court.
—Chester Ford called Saturday on John Snyder in Chatham.
BUYS PROPERTY
—The property formerly used as a gas station and store and owned for over 35 years by Charles Briggs has been sold to Arthur C. Lee Sr. Mr. Lee is having the store bulding remodeled and will use it for his real estate office.
—Kenneth A Ford took his mother and sisters to Poughkeepsie on Sunday to, spend the day with his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Osterhoudt.
—Last year Mrs. Arthur C. Lee collected over one hundred dollars for the Heart Fund. She now has $96.50 and hopes to reach her goal this year.
—Bill Durlack, Canaan Superintendent of Highways, and Tom Crandell, his assistant, had coffee at the Carl A. Foss home Monday morning. They were out with a road scraper smoothing out the ruts in the road.
—J. R. West made a trip to the Veterans Hospital in Albany Wednesday to have some dental work done.
CHURCH NOTES
—During the Methodist Church service, Sunday, Rev. Oscar Arnold discussed the reasons for the present growth of the Universalist Church. Atthe Thursday evening meeting the words of Christ in the book of Matthew were studied. The members of the church hope that the heaps of snow in front of the church will melt away before long, so they can once again hold their services in the church.
—Cards received from Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Levy of White Plains and Red Rock say how much they are enjoying a Caribbean cruise.
—Roy Harmon or Pittsford and Red Rock had his picture in a Rochester newspaper last week. It showed him gathering sap from maple trees. Mr. Harmon owns an airport at Fairport near Rochester and gives instructions to those who want to learn to fly, but every spring he enjoys making maple syrup. It's a sort of hobby with him. This year he has hung up about 80 sap pails.
SIGNS OF SPRING
—Two dozen red-winged blackbirds in a maple tree top and the pussy willow bush back of the Lamoree saphouse full of pussies - sure sign of spring.
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Transcribed from The Chatham Courier, March 21, 1963