Silent Sentinels of Local Black History Speak: Beyond the Surface of the Rhinebeck P.O. Murals

S I LENTS ENTI NELSOFLOCALBLACK HI S TORYS PEAK:

R h i n e b e c k P. O.MURALS

BEYOND THES URFACEOFTHE

F r o m ac o mmu n i t yc o n v e r s a t i o ni nRh i n e b e c k , Ne wY o r k

Home of Loyalist Teunis Peer and enslaved Jack. See page 11.

Home of Lewis Frazier. Corner of S. Parsonage and South Streets.

See page 15.

Grasmere. See page 8.

Section E of Rhinebeck Cemetery See page 21.

Oak Street was home to many African Americans in the 19th century. See page 19.

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SILENT SENTINELS OF LOCAL BLACK HISTORY SPEAK: BEYOND THE SURFACE OF THE

Rhinebeck P.O. MURALS

Historical Sources Begin to Fill Gaps

2024 Edition

By Bill Jeffway

COMPANION PIECE TO THE 1940 MURAL BOOKLET

BY OLIN DOWS • WILLIAM SEABROOK • CHANLER A. CHAPMAN With support from Rhinebeck residents: Gary Bassett, Michael Frazier, Sophie Greller, Kathy Hammer, Beverly Kane, Nancy Kelly, Laura Kufner, Connie Lown, Lenny Miller, Melodye Moore, Duane Ragucci, Arthur Seelbinder, Elizabeth Spinzia, James Stevenson, Brent Sverdloff & others

AN OCCASIONAL PUBLICATION OF THE DUTCHESS COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY, VOLUME XII

© Dutchess County Historical Society. 2024 www.DCHSNY.org

This 1940 booklet with explanatory text written by Olin Dows is the basis for this publication.

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The first page looks at the mural depiction.

The subsequent page identifies sources that can begin to fill gaps.

1.

1774 ~ General & Janet Montgomery Settled in Rhinebeck 1820 ~ The Widowed Janet Montgomery Came to Own 12 Slaves 2.

1776 ~ American Patriots & British Loyalists Lived Side by Side 1777 ~ Enslaved Jack Stood Up for US Promise of Liberty 3.

1790 ~ Rhinebeck’s Social Center Was The Flatts 1762 ~ Enslaved Isaac Escaped Public Flogging 4.

1790 ~ Chancellor Livingston Was Driven by an Enslaved Coachman 1783 ~ Livingston Slaves Were Treated by Rhinebeck’s Dr. Cooper 5.

1780 ~ Corn Shucking Bee 1780 to 1820 ~ The Enslaved Labored in an Agricultural Economy 6.

1807 ~ Enslaved Stevedores Worked at Slate Dock 1790 ~ Rhinebeck Dock & Ferry Operators Owned Slaves 7.

1799 ~ The Young Mary Garrettson 1853 ~ Miss Garrettson Donated Land for “Colored” Burials 5

INTR ODUCTION INTRODUCTION In the years just before World a means helpthe theU.S. U.S.emerge emerge from the In the years just before World War War Two,Two, as aasmeans to to help theglobal global economic depression, U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt created a wide range of economic depression, U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt created a wide range of Federal Federal work programs.

The Treasury Relief Program was oneofofseveral several that that involved involved art work programs.

The Treasury Relief Program was one art and and culture.

He assigned his hometown neighbor and family friend, Rhinebeck’s Olin Dows, culture. He assigned his hometown neighbor and family friend, Rhinebeck’s Olin Dows,toto up. Through the Treasury Section of Fine Arts, Dows was awarded the 1940 painting head ithead up.it Through the Treasury Section of Fine Arts, Dows was awarded the 1940 of the Rhinebeck Post Office murals to stand as a permanent educational tool. painting of the Rhinebeck Post Office murals to stand as a permanent educational tool.

Because the Post Office was builtinin the the image a 17th century local Dutch house, Because the Post Office was built imageofof a 17th century local settler’s Dutch settler’s initial vision was was for the to feature traditional Dutch portrait paintings house,Roosevelt’s Roosevelt’s initial vision forinterior the interior to feature traditional Dutch portrait fromfrom thatthat period, known as the Golden Age. But Dows argued for the paintings period, known asDutch the Dutch Golden Age. But successfully Dows successfully argued depiction of local history, starting with the arrival of the first European, Henry Hudson. for the depiction of local history, starting with the arrival of the first European, Henry As a result, we are left (as are future generations), with a rich, thoughtful view of local Hudson. As a result, we are left (as are future generations), with a rich, thoughtful view of history through the lens of 1940 American sensibilities, one that sparked controversy and local history through the lens 1940 American sensibilities, one that sparked controversy community discussion in of 2020. and community discussion in 2020.

The point that any depiction of the past should require reassessment, is explained by The point that any depiction of the past should require reassessment, is explained by Dutchess County Historian William P. Tatum III, PhD, who speaks to the distinction between Dutchess County Historian William P. Tatum III, PhD, who speaks to the distinction “the past,” certain people, places, events and things that actually happened, and what he between “the past,”ascertain people, events andattempt things that actually differentiates “history,” whichplaces, is any generation’s to explain “thehappened, past.” Thisand of what he differentiates as “history,” which is any generation’s attempt to explain “the past.” course becomes an imperfect process for any range of reasons including bias, incomplete This oforcourse becomes an imperfect process for any range of reasons including bias, incorrect information. incomplete or incorrect information.

Stemming from the same principle underlying Tatum’s point, Vassar Professor Lucy Maynard

Stemming from the same principle underlying Tatum’s point, Vassar Professor Lucy Salmon argued a century ago that a historian’s most important work is to get closer to a Maynard Salmon argued century of ago that a by historian’s most important work is to by get truth by pursuing newa avenues research, seeking new voices and perspectives, closer finding to a truth by pursuing new avenues of research, by seeking new voices and new information, and by correcting past bias. She provocatively called it the need perspectives, by history. finding new information, and by correcting past bias. She provocatively to “rewrite” called it the need to “rewrite” history.

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Toptoto bottom: Original Kip Top bottom: Original Kip House, Rhinecliff, destroyed by House, Rhinecliff, destroyed by fire in 1908. The 1940 Post fire in 1908. The 1940 Post Office.

Office. Lucy Maynard Salmon Lucy Maynard Salmon and her and her 1929, posthumously 1929, posthumously published published book on the need to book on the need to “rewrite” “rewrite” history. history.

INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

and for Inthese reasons, we look at the we 1940 of Rhinebeck Post Office that spirit, and for these reasons, lookmurals at the 1940 murals of Rhinebeck Post Office ally focus the stories of Black the degree they depicted. andon intentionally focus on thehistory, stories oftoBlack history, to the are degree they areWe depicted.

We look at then, what stories werestories told then, and can be told toviewers contemporary stories were told and what can bewhat toldstories to contemporary viewers — by We looking at begun source material. have begun a similardiverse process and of bringing at source material. have a similarWe process of bringing diverse and contemporary voices, views, and context to the depictions of Indigenous y voices, views, and context to the depictions of Indigenous Peoples in the Peoples in the Rhinebeck murals. urals.

Community conversations at the end ofthe 2020 about theto best way towe ensure we move onversations at the end of 2020 about best way ensure move toward a more complete and inclusive history, in this public space specifically, e complete and inclusive history, in this public space specifically, were wide were wide ranging. There was general consensus, however, that a good next step would be e was general consensus, however, that a good next step would be to begin to begin to lay out some of the untold stories and context which can be found in source me of the untold storiesinand which can be found in source material, material, resulting this context publication. is publication.

Art historian, scholar, and author William B. Rhoads writes that in the 1940 brochure,

scholar,Dows and author William B. Rhoads writes that in the 1940 Dows was originally described the stevedores as enslaved but brochure, that the reference cribed the stevedores as enslaved but that the reference was removed before removed before publication by others. A reference to slaves in Dows’ corresponding y others.

A reference to slaves in Dows’ corresponding his (FDR’s booklet for his subsequent project, the murals in the Hyde booklet Park Postfor Office reference slaves. roject, hometown), the murals retains in the aHyde ParktoPost Office (FDR’s hometown), retains a laves.

One need go no further than the 1938 book written by one of the co-authors of the

no further thanmural the 1938 book written by one to of find the co-authors of absence the original original booklet, William Seabrook, the erasure or of history.

In The Foreigners,tohefind writes, the characters and places in this book are real.” t, William Seabrook, the“All erasure or absence of history.

In The His“All chapters depict Scandinavian Americans, Italian are Americans, German Americans, e writes, the characters and places in this book real.” His chapters Americans, Russian Americans, and Native Americans.

Native Americans? We inavian Polish Americans, Italian Americans, German Americans, Polish Americans, quickly come to realize he is referring to White settlers who were born in the United ricans, and Native Americans. Native Americans? We quickly come to realize States from earlier immigration. There is no reference to Persons of Color. ng to White settlers who were born in the United States from earlier There is no reference to Persons of Color.

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A 1938 book by Post Office mural A o1938 b o k lbook e t cby o -Post a u tOffice h o r mural W i l l i booklet am co-author William in a nonSeabrook, in Seabrook, a non-fictional fictional account of Rhinebeck, makes account of Rhinebeck, makes no no mention of Persons of Color. mention of Persons of Color.

1. THE MURAL DEPICTS 1. THE MURAL DEPICTS

IN SETTLEDIN INRHINEBECK RHINEBECK IN1774 1774GEN. GEN.&&JANET JANET MONTGOMERY MONTGOMERY SETTLES

“GeneralRichard Richard Montgomery wife, Janet Livingston, seedlings on “General Montgomery andand his his wife, Janet Livingston, plantplant locustlocust seedlings on whatwill willbecome become lawn Grasmere. bricks were baked a home made what thethe lawn of of Grasmere.

TheThe bricks were baked in a in home made kiln.”kiln.” Olin Dows, 1940.

Olin Dows, 1940.

Gen. Montgomery was killed in battle in the Revolutionary War at Quebec in 1775. In Gen. Montgomery was killed in battle in the Revolutionary War at Quebec in 1775. In 1805 1805 Janet Montgomery moved to a new home, what is today called Montgomery Janet Montgomery moved to a new home, what is today called Montgomery Place at Bard Place at Bard College. In 1828 the original Grasmere building was destroyed by fire and College.

1828 the original Grasmere building was destroyed by fire and the building that the buildingInthat stands today was constructed.

stands today was constructed.

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1. SOURCE MATERIAL REVEALS

THE WIDOW MONTGOMERY CAME TO OWN 12 SLAVES BY 1820 1.

SOURCE MATERIAL REVEALS

As a widow, Mrs. Montgomery went on to become an ambitious and successful estate manager until her death in 1827, the same year that slavery was abolished in New York State. She acquired slaves through purchase, and through children born of her enslaved women.

THE WIDOW MONTGOMERY CAME TO OWN 12 SLAVES BY 1820

As a widow, Mrs. Montgomery went on to become an ambitious and successful estate manager until her death in 1827, the same year that slavery was

abolished in New York State. acquired slaves through purchase, and through children born of her enslaved women.

1790: 425 of Rhinebeck’s 491 Persons ofShe Color were enslaved.

Therefore, the man working the were 1790: 425 of Rhinebeck’s 491 Persons ofatColor (c). kiln was more likely enslaved, than not. Source: 1790 enslaved. (a).

FederalTherefore, census.the man working at the kiln was more likely enslaved,

than not. Source: 1790 Federal census.

In 1820 Montgomery owned 12 enslaved In 1820 Montgomery owned 12 enslaved individuals (a): individuals (a): men, four and adult men, four adult eight whoand wereeight youngwho girls,were or young or young adult girls,women. or young or 1820 adultFederal women.

Source: 1820 Source: census.

Federal census.

Montgomery’s enslaved families grew from births (b).

“There was born of my slave Margaret, a male child named Montgomery’s enslaved families grew John,” Montgomery testified, August 27, 1799. Source: Official from births (b).

“There was born of my slave Margaret, Town records, Rhinebeck Historical Society. a male child named John,” Montgomery testified, enslaved families grew through purchase AugustMontgomery’s 27, 1799. Source: Official Town records, (c). Historical Society.

Rhinebeck

(b).

For $100, “a certain female negro slave named Susan, aged about 14 years” was purchased from Johannes Klum. November Montgomery’s enslaved families grew University Library.

15, 1808. Source: Property deed, Princeton

through purchase (c). For $100, “a certain female negro slave named Susan, aged about 14 years” was purchased from Johannes Klum. November 15, 1808.

Source: Property deed, Princeton University Library.

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2. THEDEPICTS MURAL DEPICTS 2. THE MURAL

AMERICAN PATRIOTS & BRITISH LOYALISTS

BY SIDE MERICAN PATRIOTS & BRITISH LOYALISTS LIVEDLIVED SIDE SIDE

BY SIDE

“Tories” or “Loyalists” were those loyal to the King of England. or “Loyalists” were those loyal to the King of England. The Tories The Tories described American “Patriots” as either “Rebels” or ed American “Patriots” as either “Rebels” or “Whigs.” In 1775, those on “Whigs.” In 1775, those on the side of the American Revolution, e of the American Revolution, required each man to swear an oath to the required each man to swear an oath to the Patriot cause called cause called the “Articles of Association” (a). Guns were in supply, short supply, the “Articles of Association” (a). Guns were in short depicts Downs Patriotsdepicts havingPatriots a military drill or exercise, one man one uses a having a military drill or exercise, k (b). man uses a pitchfork (b).

men did, but Quakers refused to sign as to a sign matter broader Mostnot menall. did, but not all.

Quakers refused as aofmatter e againstoftaking It seems about oaths.

30% Itofseems Dutchess broaderoaths. principle against taking men were Loyalists who did notCounty support thewere Patriot cause. If about 30% of Dutchess men Loyalists into this who category, you might have been imprisoned in did not support the Patriot cause. If you fellExeter, ampshire,into or on ship dedicated for that at Kingston. thisa category, you might havepurpose been imprisoned ou were willing to New swearHampshire, an oath, you allowed to be at in Exeter, or onwere a ship dedicated but unarmed, here with Loyalist for that which purposeisat depicted Kingston. Or, if you wereawilling ering his to gun (c). an oath, you were allowed to be at large swear but unarmed, which is depicted here with a Loyalist his gunof(c).his gun while men take the Dows, “Asurrendering Tory is relieved ionary pledge and drill.” Dows, 1940.

From Dows, “A Tory is relieved of his gun while men take the Revolutionary pledge and drill.” Dows, 1940.

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(a).

(b).

(c).

2. SOURCE MATERIAL REVEALS 2. SOURCE MATERIAL REVEALS

1777 ~ ENSLAVED JACK STOOD UP FOR U.S. PROMISEA.OF LIBERTY 1777 ~ ENSLAVED JACK STOOD UP FOR U.S. PROMISE OF LIBERTY

The Minutes of the Committee for Detecting and Defeating Conspiracies of September 1777 reveal the depth of the patriotism of one enslaved man in particular. Jack was owned

by Patriot Hendrick Freligh who lived in south Rhinebeck, near Southlands. Through Jack’s testimony we learn of the physical for andDetecting familial proximity of The Minutes of the Committee and Defeating Conspiracies of September Loyalists and Patriots.

1777 reveal the depth of the patriotism of one enslaved man in particular. Jack was owned

by Patriot Hendrick Freligh who lived in south Rhinebeck, near Southlands. Through Jack’s Hendrick Freligh’s barn wasphysical burned and to the ground

by British Loyalists,and probably involving testimony we learn of the familial proximity of Loyalists Patriots.

Teunis Peer and associates. Peer lived less than a mile east of Rhinebeck Village in a stone Hendrick Freligh’s barn Itwas to theso ground bywould Britishhave Loyalists, probably involving house that stands today. wasburned September, the loss included harvested crops.

Teunis Peer and associates.

Peer lived less than a mile east of Rhinebeck Village in a stone It would have been particularly costly to the Patriot cause. house that stands today. It was September, so the loss would have included harvested crops.

It would have been costly Loyalist to the Patriot Jack resisted offers from theparticularly aforementioned Teuniscause.

Peer to engage in activities against Patriots.offers For example, tried to persuade Jack to burn Patriot Isaac Sheldon’s Jack resisted from thePeer aforementioned Loyalist Teunis Peer to engage in activities barn by throwing a hot cinder on the thatched roof.

Jack also rejected offers from Sheldon’s Peer to be against Patriots. For example, Peer tried to persuade Jack to burn Patriot Isaac taken to British occupied New York City, where freedom may have been promised. barn by throwing a hot cinder on the thatched roof. Jack also rejected offers fromJack Peerwent to beyond resistance played New alongYork withCity, Peerwhere to gather information he been wouldpromised. ultimatelyJack bring be taken to Britishand occupied freedom may have towent the Committee, the beyond resistance and played along with Peer to gather information he would source of this information. ultimately bring to the Committee, the source of this information.

Typical time, Patriot Hendrick Freligh a Loyalist brother, Johannes, who close was Typical at at thethe time, Patriot Hendrick Freligh hadhad a Loyalist brother, Johannes, who was close to Peer.

Johannes Freligh’s slave, also named Jack, was active in Loyalist activities. to Peer. Johannes Freligh’s slave, also named Jack, was active in Loyalist activities. We learn We were learn “18 there “18 or 19” Loyalists the woods aroundone Rhinebeck, one buried of whom there or were 19” Loyalists in the woodsinaround Rhinebeck, of whom had a had of buried a chest clothesathat included a British uniform. chest clothes that of included British uniform.

Peer, Johannes Freligh, and Johannes Freligh’s slave Jack, were all sentenced to prison, Peer, Freligh, and JohannestoFreligh’s all sentenced to prison, but but Johannes released, given their willingness take theslave oath Jack, to thewere Revolutionary cause. released, given their willingness to take the oath to the Revolutionary cause.

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From the top: The Teunis Peer house today. From the Hyde Park Murals byTeunis Olin Dows Fromcompleted the top: The Peer just house after theFrom Rhinebeck the today. the Hyde murals, Park Murals depiction of a burning barn in that completed by Olin Dows just after town, an all-too common and very the Rhinebeck murals, the depiction costly threat. of a burning barn in that town, an alltoo common and very costly threat.

2. SOURCE MATERIAL REVEALS 3. THE MURAL DEPICTS

1790 ~ RHINEBECK’S SOCIAL CENTER WAS THE FLATTS

1790 ~ RHINEBECK'S SOCIAL CENTER WAS THE FLATTS

“The social center of the Flatts as Rhinebeck was called has always been

this intersection Sepasco Trail with highway.”

Dows, 1940.

“The social center of of thethe Flatts as Rhinebeck wasthe called has always been this intersection of the Sepasco Trail with the highway.” Dows, 1940.

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3. SOURCE MATERIAL REVEALS 3. SOURCE MATERIAL REVEALS

1762 ~ ENSLAVED ISAAC ESCAPED PUBLIC FLOGGING 1762 ~ ENSLAVED ISAAC ESCAPED PUBLIC FLOGGING

Unfortunately, public places were not always serene. While we do not know the exact location of were Rhinebeck’s whipping Unfortunately, public places not always serene.post, While we do notwas know the exact Rhinebeck’s whipping the punishment meant to belocation carriedofout very visibly.

Peter post,athe punishmentCaptain was meant be carried out very deWitt was distinguished in thetoRevolutionary War. visibly. Peter deWitt was Captain in the His tombstone is visible today in athedistinguished Reformed Dutch Church Hisunknown tombstone is visible today in the (shownRevolutionary bottom right).War. For an reason, the enslaved Reformed Dutch Church (shown bottom right).

For an man he owned named Issac was ordered to endure a flogging unknown reason, the enslaved man he owned named Issac in public, a terrifying experience that leaves deep scars. was ordered to endure a flogging in public, a terrifying experience that leaves deep scars.

Constable Joseph Rykert was ordered by County Courts “to Constable Joseph Rykert wastoordered County Courts “to whip Isaac, a negro slave belonging CaptainbyPeter deWitt whip Isaac, apublic negrowhipping slave belonging to But Captain Peter deWitt at at the [Rhinebeck] post…” for unknown thea document [Rhinebeck]dated public whipping But for reasons, October 21, post…”

1762 reveals, “theunknown reasons, did a document dated October 21, 1762 “the said said Constable refuse and neglect to whip the reveals, said negro Constable did refuse and neglect to whip the said negro but suffered him to escape…contrary to the duty of his office.” but suffered him to escape…contrary to the duty of his office.”

Dutchess County Ancient Documents Collection, Dutchess Dutchess County Ancient Documents Collection, Dutchess County Clerk’s Office (image, right).

County Clerk’s Office (image, right).

It is to where know where Slavery would It is hard tohard know Isaac Isaac wouldwould have have gone.gone.

Slavery would NewState York for State for another 65 years.

In 1728, the first Above: A 1762 Court document exist in exist NewinYork another 65 years.

In 1728, the first charges Constable Joseph Rykert Quakers into southern and eastern Dutchess County and Quakers movedmoved into southern and eastern Dutchess County with failing in his duty to flog an became first prominentreligious religiousgroup group to to reject reject slavery. and became thethe first prominent slavery. But enslaved man he allowed to escape.

1762 Court document it was not until 1769 that they became the first “Friends Above: The Atombstone of the enslaved But it was not until 1769 that they became the first “Friends charges Josephtoday Rykert man’sConstable owner is visible in the Meeting” in the US to free slaves.

Meeting” in the US to free slaves.

Church cemetery. withReformed failing in Dutch his duty to flog an

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enslaved man he allowed to escape.

The tombstone of the enslaved man’s owner is visible today in the Reformed Dutch Church cemetery.

4.THE THEMURAL MURAL DEPICTS DEPICTS 4.

1762 ~ CHANCELLORLIVINGSTON LIVINGSTON DRIVEN DRIVEN BY 1762 ~ CHANCELLOR BYBLACK BLACKCOACHMAN COACHMAN

“Margaret Beekman Livingston and her son Chancellor Livingston arrive in her coach…”

“Margaret Beekman Livingston and her son Chancellor Livingston arrive in her coach…” Olin Dows, 1940.

Olin Dows, 1940. While prohibiting from their own While prohibiting any enslaved individualany fromenslaved making theirindividual own decisions aboutmaking professions, certain decisions about professions, activities were “allowed.”

We find African Americans activities were “allowed.” Wecertain find African Americans in roles as gardeners, coachmen (later chauffeurs), footmen, body servants, and in the 19th century,waiters, barbers. footmen, body servants, and in roleswaiters, as gardeners, coachmen (later chauffeurs), in the 19th century, barbers.

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SOURCEMATERIAL MATERIAL REVEALS REVEALS 4.4.SOURCE

1762~~LIVINGSTON LIVINGSTONSLAVES SLAVESTREATED TREATED BY

BY RHINEBECK’S RHINEBECK’S DR. DR. COOPER COOPER 1762 In a letter Annanias CooperCooper dated June 30,June 1763, Rhinebeck, written towritten “Col. Robert In a from letterDr. from Dr. Annanias dated 30, 1763, Rhinebeck, to “Col. Livingston, Livingston” (who was a cousin to Chancellor Livingston), Dr. RobertManor Livingston, Manor Livingston” (whoand wasneighbor a cousin and neighbor to Chancellor Cooper returns Livingston’s JackLivingston’s eight days earlier than planned, having a Livingston), Dr. Cooperslave returns slave Jack eight days earlierreceived than planned, request to doreceived so fromaLivingston prior evening. having request tothe do so from Livingston the prior evening.

C.

Dr. Cooper lived in a brick on what was then the main Albany Road, called Dr. Cooper lived in a brick househouse on what was then the main Albany PostPost Road, nownow called Old Post Road, 1 1/4 miles north of the village center.

The house no longer stands.

Cooper Old Post Road, 1 1/4 miles north of the village center. The house no longer stands. Cooper sent back Jack to back the manor with prescriptions a courteously worded advisory to ”not sent Jack thetomanor with prescriptions and aand courteously worded advisory to ”not put [Jack] to any hard work” until he is better. put [Jack] to any hard work” until he is better.

A ledger of Robert Livingston (again, the Manor Livingston, not the Chancellor) shows A ledger of Robert Livingston Manor Livingston, not likely the Chancellor) clothing expenses for his(again, slaves.the Quash stands out as his coachman shows because Quash Dr. Cooper lived just north of the Dr. Cooper lived northPost of the village on thejust Albany Road clothing expenses forand his slaves. stands out as coachman Quash received a vest britchesQuash in January 1764, andhisa likely few months laterbecause was given a suit ofvillage ass . a s on t hthe i s Albany 1 7 8 9 Post m a p Road show received a vest and britches in January 1764, and a few months later was given a suit of clothes purchased for one pound four shillings. This was much more elaborate than whatthis Through letter dated June 30, 1789 mapa shows.

Through a letter 1763, to come understand clothes purchased forreceived. one pound four shillings. This was more elaborate than what any dated any other slave [Long Hammering.

1994.

Bymuch A.J. Williams-Meyers.]

Junewe 30,come 1763, we to the interaction between Dr. understand the interaction between other slave received. [Long Hammering. 1994. By A.J. Williams-Meyers.]

Cooper and andRobert RobertLivingston, Livingston, In May of 1791, another enslaved coachman, James Hemmings, half-brother to SallyDr. Cooper relative to the medical treatment Hemmings and owned by Thomas Jefferson, led horses and carriages past Dr. Cooper’srelative the medicalenslaved treatmentman of atoLivingston’s In May of 1791, another enslaved coachman, James Hemmings, half-brother to Sally Livingston’s man house when Jefferson and James Madison took their ambitious tour of the Hudson Valleyof anamed Jack. enslaved Letter courtesy of Hemmings and owned by Thomas Jefferson, led horses and carriages past Dr. Cooper’s named courtesy of theof the Jack.

GilderLetter Lehrman Institute via the Post Road. house when Jefferson and James Madison took their ambitious tour of the Hudson Valley via Gilder American History, Lehrman Institute of American the Post Road.

Lewis Frazier of Milan, buried in Rhinebeck Cemetery, made the leap from country boy toHistory, New York City man by being a coachman, allowing his daughter to attend that led toburied her having a nationalCemetery, leadershipmade role the for the Lewisschools Frazier of Milan, in Rhinebeck leapadvancement from of boy women and Persons Color page 19).allowing his daughter country to New York Cityofman by(detailed being a on coachman, to attend schools that led to her having a national leadership role for the advancement of women and Persons of Color (detailed on page 21).

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5. THE MURAL DEPICTS 5. THE MURAL DEPICTS

1780 ~ CORNSHUCKING BEE 1780 ~ CORNSHUCKING BEE “Cornshucking bee. The boy who has found a red ear kisses the girl who brings the cider.” Olin “Cornshucking Dows, 1940. bee. The boy who has found a red ear kisses the girl who brings the cider.”

Olin Dows, 1940.

Somehave havenoted notedthe thealmost almost unfinished unfinished aspect aspect of of the Some the portrayal portrayal of of the theman manororyoung youngman manwho appears to be grabbing corn stalks.

The text refers to the tradition at the time where “the who appears to be grabbing corn stalks. The text refers to the tradition at the time whereboy” whoboy” findswho the red earthe is allowed to allowed kiss the “girl” of the his choosing.

And yet the depiction, below “the finds red ear is to kiss “girl” of his choosing.

And yet the left, appears to show an older man and woman, neither of whom appear to be terribly happy depiction, below left, appears to show an older man and woman, neither of whom appear the prospect.

An original sketch by (below right) to have beenappears a younger toabout be terribly happy about the prospect.

AnDows original sketch byappears Dows (below right) child.

Furthermore, there is no doubt that if a Black adult, young adult, or boy, found to have been a younger child. Furthermore, there is no doubt that if a Black adult, the red ear, they would not found be allowed to ear, kiss they the “girl” ofnot theirbechoice.

Directly the of young adult, or boy, the red would allowed to kissabove the “girl” windows where the public with where Post Office staff, many people their choice.

Directly above interacts the windows the public interacts withfind Postthis Office depiction troubling. staff, manyconfusing, people findorthis depiction confusing, or troubling.

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5. SOURCE MATERIAL REVEALS 5. SOURCE MATERIALIN REVEALS 1780 to 1827 ~ THE ENSLAVED LABORED AN AGRICULTURAL ECONOMY 1780 to 1827 ~ The Enslaved Labored in an Agricultural Economy

In theInperiod leading up toup thetoabolition of slavery in New on July 1827, the period leading the abolition of slavery in York New State York State on4,July 4, 1827, Dutchess County’s economy was dominated by agriculture.

During the Revolutionary War, Dutchess County’s economy was dominated by agriculture.

During the Revolutionary eachWar, side each aimedside to disrupt enemy’stheir supplies and supplies protect their In peacetime, aimed their to disrupt enemy’s andown. protect their own. In agriculture was not only about feeding one’s family, but one’s also about peacetime, agriculture wasself-sufficiency not only aboutinself-sufficiency in feeding family, but providing “currency” to pay bills. People bought sold anything fromsold newspaper also about providing “currency” to pay bills.and People bought and anythingsubfrom newspaper subscriptions to medical visits, paying wheat, or apples, chickens, scriptions to medical doctor visits, payingdoctor with wheat, apples,with chickens, firewood, for or firewood, for example. slave owners paid their by their through the use of their example.

Some slave owners Some paid their bills by through the bills use of enslaved persons’ As some ofads these local newspaper ads show, persons are labor.enslaved As somepersons’ of these labor. local newspaper show, persons are described as “bred to the described as “bred to the farming business,” “accustomed farming business” or "well farming business,” “accustomed to farming business” or “wellto acquainted with counacquainted with country work.” years the 1799 Act for Gradual try work.”

Four years after the 1799Four Act for theafter Gradual Abolition of the Slavery (seeAbolition image) of Slavery became the Shop May 1803 ad ofthe Henry mentions thewoman, sale of a became law,(see the image) May 1803 ad oflaw, Henry mentions saleShop of a 19-year-old 19-year-old woman, “with the time fixed by law of her male child, one year and to six “with the time fixed by law of her male child, one year and six months old.” This refers months old.”

This refers to the fact that, under the relatively new law, the boy, and his the fact that, under the relatively new law, the boy, and his mother, would be freed from mother, would beon freed slavery or indenture on July 4, 1827. slavery or indenture Julyfrom 4, 1827.

Above: the 1799 law Above: the 1799 law “gradually” “gradually” abolishing abolishing slavery New slavery in New YorkinState, courtesy NY State York State, of courtesy of NY Archives.

Various local State Archives.

Various local newspaper newspaperads. ads.

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6. THE MURAL DEPICTS 6. THE MURAL DEPICTS

1807 ~ ENSLAVED STEVEDORES AT SLATE DOCK 1807 ~ ENSLAVED STEVEDORES AT SLATE DOCK

“On August 7th the Clermont sailed by Slate Dock on its maiden trip from New York to “On August the 1940.

Clermont sailed

by Slate Dockthat on Dows its maiden trip from York“Slaves to Tivoli.”

Tivoli.”

Olin 7th Dows, William Rhoads found originally had New written, Olin Dows, 1940.

William Rhoads thatit Dows originallybefore had written, “Slaves loading [were] loading a sloop with grain,”found but that was removed publication.

In [were] the Hyde aPark sloop with grain,” but that it was removed publication.

In Rhinebeck, the Hyde Park Post Office murals which Dows workedbefore on immediately after his Post notesOffice are murals which Dows worked on immediately afterimage Rhinebeck, notesright), are published saying the published saying the following (relative to the shownhis above “Before 1741, following (relative to the his image shown above cleared right), “Before 1741, Jacobus Stoutenburgh, his Jacobus Stoutenburgh, sons, and slaves the land.” sons, and slaves cleared the land.”

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6.

MATERIALREVEALS REVEALS 6. SOURCE SOURCE MATERIAL

1807 ~ RHINEBECK DOCK 1807 DOCK & & FERRY FERRY OPERATORS OPERATORSOWNED OWNEDSLAVES SLAVES AtAtthis economy was was largely largelyagricultural. agricultural.Enslaved Enslavedindividuals individuals thistime, time,Dutchess Dutchess County’s County’s economy would have been involved at every step of the process from planting, to harvesting, would have been involved at every step of the process from planting, to harvesting, to tomilling, milling,totopacking packingand andshipping. shipping.The The 1802 1802 Salisbury Salisbury Turnpike Turnpike Map Map shows shows William William Radcliff’s at Rhinecliff Rhinecliff (known (knownas asLong LongDock, Dock,ititwas wasjust just Radcliff’sownership ownership of of aa dock dock and and ferry ferry at north hehe owned five slaves.

Just northofofSlate SlateDock), Dock),while whilethe the1800 1800census censusshows showsthat that owned five slaves.

Just north,

by Aaron Aaron Camp Camp north,Woods WoodsLanding Landing (sometimes (sometimes Rhinebeck Rhinebeck landing) was operated operated by and andOliver OliverWood.

Wood.They Theyran ranan anad adseeking seekingthe thereturn returnofof“runaway” “runaway”Tom, Tom,aged aged24, 24,soso were as well. well. wereobviously obviously slave slave owners as Right: New York Gazette, Sept. 5, 1799.

Right: New York Gazette, Sept.

5, 1799.

Facsimile reproduction.

Facsimile reproduction.

Map of the Salisbury Turnpike, 1802.

Dutchess County Clerk’s Office.

A map of the town of Rhinebeck by A. Thompson, 1798, showing Woods Landing just north of Radcliff’s dock. Library of Congress.

Slaves

1800 Federal Census indicating William Radcliff owned five slaves.

1800 Federal Census indicating William Radcliff owned five slaves.

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7.7.THE THEMURAL MURAL DEPICTS DEPICTS

1807 1807 ~ ~ THE THE YOUNG YOUNG MARY MARY GARRETTSON GARRETTSON

From the Dutchess County Historical Society 1932 Yearbook, showing what was a recent DCHS “pilgrimage” to the Garrettson home.

From the Dutchess County Historical Society 1932 Yearbook, showing what was a recent DCHS “pilgrimage” to the Garrettson home.

Miss Mary Garrettson later in life.

“Wildercliff’ was built in 1799 by the Methodist Circuit rider Freeborn Garrettson, seen here Miss Mary Garrettson later in life. walking with hiswas wifebuilt Catherine, LivingstonCircuit daughter, their little Mary. She is “Wildercliff’ in 1799 another by the Methodist riderand Freeborn Garrettson, seeninhere with his wife Catherine, another Livingston and their1940. playing the walking Methodist Grove where large out-door services weredaughter, held.” Olin Dows, Mary. is playing Thelittle house stillShe stands today. in the Methodist Grove where large out-door services were held.” Olin Dows, 1940. The house still stands today.

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7. SOURCE MATERIAL REVEALS

1807 ~ MISS GARRETTSON GIVES LAND FOR “COLORED” BURIALS The mention of Miss Garrettson affords the opportunity to talk about her 1853 gift of a half acre of land just south of the Village, expanding the existing Rhinebeck cemetery to allow for a “colored cemetery” or “negro burial ground.” Well into the early 20th century, burial of Persons of Color was allowed Above: A 2011 geophysical survey led by Vassar Professor Brian McAdoo identified only in separate, segregated cemeteries, or segre60 potential burials. Image courtesy of gated sections of larger cemeteries, as is the case McAdoo. here, with few exceptions. In 2011, Vassar College Prof. Brian MacAdoo led a class investigating this burial ground called “Section E” and the adjacent Frazier family plot. Using ground-penetrating radar McAdoo identified up to 60 potential burials.

There was obvious dignity in being buried in a way that was thoughtfully memorialized.

In making her will in 1865, Lydia Johnson, who was freed by Henry Livingston in 1818, instructed her son to “purchase a stone for my grave suitable for a person occupying my position in life.” The historian Howard Morse said of her in 1908, “she was a bright, happy, hard-working woman until the last. Had a pleasant word for everyone.” Her headstone is visible today, among others such as Jack, who was born in Africa. No last name is noted.

The Frazier family plot was purchased by Susan Elizabeth Frazier (photo above right) before 1920 to allow remains of those who died up to that point to be relocated from the family farm in Milan. Andrew Frazier was a Revolutionary War Veteran whose Dutchess County descendants have served in every major conflict up to and including World War Two. Susan Elizabeth Frazier became the first Woman of Color allowed to teach White students in New York City in 1892, and was the founder and President of the Women’s Auxiliary to the Harlem Hellfighters in World War One. 21

Top to bottom: Rhinebeck cemetery headstones for Rev. War veteran Andrew Frazier and his descendants Susan Elizabeth Frazier, and Lewis M. Frazier who lived in Rhienbeck Village. “Jack” died just before slavery was abolished in New York with a headstone that predates the opening of the cemetery (as does Andrew Frazier’s).

SOURCES & ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Special thanks to Laura Kufner who co-hosted an initial, small community conversation involving Carmen McGill, Jackie Harper and Nancy Foster of the Poughkeepsie-based Celebrating the African Spirit, and Rhinebeck community members Gary Bassett, Sophie Geller, Elizabeth Spinzia, and Brendt Sverdloff. Thanks also to County Historian Will Tatum who keeps the County’s history community active, engaged and contributing to important issues like this. Special thanks also for the unique support I get from my DCHS colleague and friend, Melodye Moore, who sculpts ideas, finds needles in haystacks, and knocks out typos, all at the same time. Thanks also to Bard College Professor Myra Armstead who submitted a formal proposal to the Town of Rhinebeck endorsing the creation of context, such as this booklet. Finally, thank you to the local Post Office staff and Postmaster for your your stewardship of this unique gem! ~ Bill Jeffway

• Contemporary photos including murals by Bill Jeffway.

• William B. Rhoads, Olin Dows, Art, History and

• A survey of the roads of the United States of America by Christopher Colles., 1789. New York Public Library.

• Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History.

• Dows sketch of Cornshucking Bee. • Map of Salisbury Turnpike, 1802, Dutchess County Clerk’s Office.

• Map of Rhinebeck, 1797, Library of Congress.

• Newspaper ads retrieved from newspapers.com and Dutchess County Historical Society.

• Mary Garrettson photo, retrieved from findagrave.com and Beverly Kane.

• Wildercliff photo, Dutchess County Historical Society 1936 Yearbook.

• Report of Brian McAdoo, Vassar College Professor of Environmental Science. Race and Class in the Hudson Valley: Geophysical Investigations, 2011.

a Usable Past. From The Livingston Legcy: Three Centuries of American History, 1987, Bard College.

• Kip House photo and photo of Library. Dutchess County Historical Society.

• Lucy Maynard Salmon photo, Vassar College.

• These Foreigners. Private collection.

• Census records, retrieved from ancestry.com.

• Janet Montgomery, declaration of slave birth, Rhinebeck Historical Society.

• Janet Montgomery, enslaved individual property deed, Princeton University.

• Dutchess County Ancient Documents Collection, Dutchess County Clerk’s Office.

Bill Jeffway has a degree in American Studies and English literature from Wesleyan University.

Jeffway is the Executive Director of the Dutchess County Historical Society and founder of History Speaks, an organization that helps research and publish under-represented local histories. Jeffway serves on the research committee of the Poughkeepsie-based Celebrating the African Spirit, and on the Vassar College President’s Inclusive History Initiative. Jeffway has a regular history column in the Northern & Southern Dutchess News & Beacon Free Press. He is a video documentarian, frequent speaker, and member of The Authors Guild.

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S I LENTS ENTI NELSOFLOCALBLACK HI S TORYS PEAK:

R h i n e b e c k P. O.MURALS

BEYOND THES URFACEOFTHE

F r o m ac o mmu n i t yc o n v e r s a t i o ni nRh i n e b e c k , Ne wY o r k