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O R A T I O N

A 'J' THE

Dedication of the Site

OF TME

^rt Schuyler Monument,

ft f«» Jl-PfWCR* Of tHB (JMSIDA HtSTOHICAl. SOOIBTYj

4fn r Mh, .isas.

tSAAC S. HARTLEY, B. T).

, i'lttS-'KIW. (SO Okmihek RTHK»rr.

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IJl/l

ORATION

AT THE

Dedication of the Site

OP THE

Fort Schuyler Monument,

(Undeh the Auspices of the Oneida Historical Societv,)

JULY 4th, 1883.

ISAAC S. HARTLEY, D. D.

(JTICA, N. Y.

EtAAS M. UOBEUTS & CO., PlUNTGitS, 60 GEKESKE STREET.

16M.

• ^

FORT SCHUYLER IN HISTORY.

BY REV. DR. ISAAC 8. HARTLEY.

Jl/r. Pi'esident, Friends and Felloxc- Citizens:

Beneath these genial skies and uniitl an atmosphere fairly laden
with the music of freedom and joy, and on a day when as a people
we took our place among the distinct nationalities of the world,
we have here assembled to mark a spot pre-eminently historic to
us, the citizens of this emerald c..^ .

There have been periods in our history when, laying aside our
usual avocations, we have been called together to consider ques-
tions bearing upon our national polity and life. And there have
been seasons when, awakened by the din of war and the clash of
arms, we have convened to arouse, enlist and equip brave hearts
and strong arms for the conflict. Hut at this hour, though drums
beat, bugles sound, flags wave and the measured tread of soldiers
in martial array is heard in our midst, we liave come to rescue
from threatened oblivion the humble site, around which more than
a century ago our fathers gathered, and from whence they sallied
forth to glorious victory.

America, rich in fertile valleys and noble streams, lias none,
however, more historic than those which these wooded hills garrison,
and where flow yon rapid rippling waters. The great Roman
orator tells us that, when he was at Athens, he could scarcely move
without meeting some record commemorative of illustrious deeds
or of illustrious men. The thundering eloquence of Demosthenes
and the divine ethics of Plato were floating in the air. So here;
every field, every forest, every acre and yon waters suggest mem-
ories dear to every freeman's heart, and such as all true Americans
should delight ever to recall.

From the time in which it was known that this beautiful valley
led to the great lakes and the extensive prairies of the west, it has
been the avenue along which the most valiant forces have moved,
as well as the scene for struggles bitter, persistent and sanguinary.
True, those of the whites who were the first to thread it from the
east were our own Dutch forefathers, and like their fathers were
in quest of the trade which made them the most successful mer-

.^^■^Vi....7'.n,:^-:r-;--,: . ii-rr.^' . ,

chants in tho world ; wliilo those wlio passed in from tlio west were
the missionaries of the (M'oss, who, as they followed its {jjrassy
level, held hiijjh in air the synihol of tlieir faith. But thouij;!! tho
cross and eominere-e so early entt'red its verdant tjales, only a few
years passed ere it witnessed seenes, than wliieh the pasjjes of iiis-
tory nowhere record any more terrible or severe. Here it was
where the Five Nations made their home, whose 'i\'kawlio«j;ea, or
war eaptain, was always of the Mohawks. First, these eonfeder-
ate tribes were in league for the preservation of their own cabins
and hunting groi'nds. Later, when strengthened by the addition
of the Tusearor. they formed an alliance with tho Dutch. Still
later, they became wedded to the Knglish; later still, they were
friends of the white man of every nationality.

For more than a century tlu^ grand problem that was ever j»re-
senting itself to the more aggressiv<> nations of Kuro[)e was, shall
the vast area of the Iroquois become a dependence; or shall tho
red man retain his native fields and remain the sole monarch of
the western world? The atteTn])ts to solve this far-reaching
problem have made this valley most historic, antl gave to its early
people the name of "The IJomans of America," while it led the
Spartans of classic Greece to be called "The Mohawks of the Old
World."

It does not eomi)ort witli the exercises of the hour that I should
sketdi, even rudely, (he events of wliich the acreage about us is
so suggestive, and whi('h these hills once looked down upon in
silent awe. Wt, who in this assembly that knows where he stands
can fall to recall the associations so surely connected with the spot,
aside from the fact that works were hero erected for safety an<l
defense. Over the very area whercjon we are now gathered lay
the only frecpientcd road through this part of tlu^ valley. Some
two centuries ago could we have looki'il down upon this very
locality, as did the eagle from his secluded nest, we migl. , have
soon Father lorpies with his associate bretlren in quest of the wig-
wams of the Mohawks, to ac(piaint their dusky tenants with tho
story of the cross; and a little later, mlssionarie! from our own
Dutch church at Albany desiring an ac<piaintaiice with the western
tribes contemplating their mental and spiritual tnprovement. In-
deed, anterior to this, an Indian delegation went eastward asking
from their .Albanian friends to be (aught anew the Christian
truths, that by dying in the (christian faith, they might obtain the
Christian reward. We might have seen likewise the brave chiefs
of the Irotniois as they lourneye.l — now for a national council —

now to carry to tlioir captors new tokens of their fidelity and
allegia!ice. In truth, no warrior, no sohlier, in war or in peace, no
itinerant, no discoverer, nor army of any nationality conUl move
to the rijj;ht or left without pas^sing the field about us, and thus
the site we would this day perpetuate. It was the luiturul and
traditional path. The orij^inal Irail from the brambles and bushes
of the Mohawk here terminated, and also the trail whic-h Wd from
the his/her grounds and the thicker forests at the west.

Referring to the topographical features of our innnediiUe neigh-
borhood, in early days, two trails or paths lay on either side of the
river; one leading to Fort William at tlie west, the other to a
route by the wooded banks of the Black Uiver and thence to
Canada. Along this latter trail the French traveled in their over-
land incursit)i,s aimed at the expulsion of the s"ttlers on our
northwestern frontiers. As it branched off some ten miles or so to
the northwest towartls Fort William, it made a more circuitous
route to this part of our State than the trail on the south side of the
river; of which our own (k'nesee street, with its numerous stores and
palatial houses is merely the development. A few rods to the east
of us a little rivulet Howetl, and it still fiows bearing the present
namy of Hallou creek; or, as it wiis called by our Dutch fathers,
ISchicelii Fresser Kill, making its outlet in yonder curve in the broader
current of the Mohawk; while a hundred or more l'e;'t to the west,
on the north bank of the river. Heels creek emptied its babbling
■waters. Insignificant tributaries to the Mohawk ! True, but in
their day though secondary streams they had a historic import
quite eciuivalent to the early Tiber, or to the more pellucid current of
the Tagiis. If r,h.' waters of the Adonis were esteenu'd sacred by
the Asiatics, and tiie Phrygians remlereil honors to the Marsyasand
the Meander, and the concpiering (Jreek, previous to his rufHing
the surface of the Sinde, poured libations into it from golden gob-
lots, every lover of freedom should hold most dear yon streams for
the services they have rendered to Auierican growth and to Amer-
ican glory. The meeting of these two humbh' rivulets, coming
down from the cooling springs born in yonder hills, laden with
^;'.7id ami gravel, and entering the river nearly opposite each other,
made the Moliawk fordable; a. id I need hardly say it was the
fordableness of tin; river that constituted the place whore wc aro
now assembled the highway of this valley. On the angle of land
formed by tho south baidc of the river, and the west shore of
Schwein Freisor Kill the Fort was located, whose site we this day
would mark. Consequently it {^uarded not merely tho river itself,

which when in repose reflects the evening star and the blusli of
morn, but the tortuous travel east and west that led to it. Its site
then was most wisely chosen. Its position made it one of the
gates of this valley, nor could a friend or enemy pass seeking the
east by the Mohawk, or the west by the double trail without pay-
ing to it, if demanded, |)roper tribute.

Remembering, then, where we now stand, how numerous must
have been the scenes to which tliis site has been witness ! But
when I speak of the scenes with which this place is so surely con-
nected, I have not in mind so much those in which loving peace is
so often eloquent, and upon wliich orators and poets always delight
to lavish, and appropriately, their loftiest jiraises, when

Buried was the bloody hatchet—
Buried was the dreadful war club —
Buried were all war-like weapons,
And tlie war cry was forgotten —

rather am I thinking of what Avon's bard so truthfully described
as

" That sou of hell
Whom angry heavens do make their minister,"

of war, savagery, slaughter, rapine, and all that kindred terms so
naturally suggest. It is said that a single mound remains, with
here and there a ditch, to mark the ancient site of the old city of
Verulam. But connect these debris of her former greatness with
her history, and the mind instantly becomes moved, and deeply.
Once she enjoyed all the rights of Roman citizensliip. Here the
brave Queen Boadicea defended the Roman army. Here St. Alban
received his martyrdom. Here, also Britain knew British, Roman,
Saxon, Danish, Saxon and Norman dynasties. So when I pause to
recall where we are now met, scene after scene passes before me just
as great and changing. Indeed, in imagination, I can see the
moving to and fro of Indian scout, fired with revenge, learning
when and where his inflamed passions shall next be given icheir
sway. I can see the fleeing of bleeding, decimated and homeless
families hurrying hither and thither, crimsoning their way with
blood, seeking that protection which civilization and only civiliza-
tion can give and perpetuate. I can se.' cruel hordes advancing
from yonder marshes to scalp, to wound, to kill ; and the marching
of iSnxon forces to check, to conquer and to tame. Nor is it difli-
oult to recall the alternate moving and retreating of Indians,
French, Dutch, English, flushed with the hope of speedy victory,

or tllsheartened and crushed by sudden defeat. For the Caucasian
knew this spot, as did the lowly and cruel red man. No doubt it
has been the passive observer of nuuiy a skirmish, and, it may be,
bitter struggle. And as at yonder ford tlie weaker rested to
bathe, so the stronger availed themselves of the pebbled path and
hurrying over, sought victory beyond.

Omitting the earlier scenes with which tliis part of our lovely
valley is fairly burdened, let me ask; was it not through the
very lields whereon we stand that the sachems so often passed for
their peculiar talks to the ancient place of treaties — Albany; that
the adventiiroiis Bradstreot crossed with bis nrmament for Oswego ;
and when its Fort was com])leted that the motely brigades of Mer-
cer, Schuyler and others marched to occupy and defend it; and
that the relief corps of Webb so sluggishly journeyed ? Indeed
scarce had the rude posts of the stockade settled in their holes ere
Prideaux and Johnson reached yon ford with the confederate
troops of Now England and New Jersey on their way to Niagara;
breaking camp at Canajoharie on the 19th, and journeying by this
site on the oOth of June, The same was true of other commanders,
and other forces bent on kindred missions. As the tides rise and
fall, or flood and ebb, so have valorous hosts moved to and fro
before this ])lace — now to defeat — now to victory — now to vic-
tory — now to defeat. In yonder meadow the gallant Herkimer
bivouacked after his glorious victory at Oriskany — that royal
struggle Avhich turned the current of the devolution and ended in
our national birtli. Beyond a doubt the lirst water that cooled
and cleansed his mortal wound was dipped up from yonder daisied
bank. Tlie wily St. Leger also would have rested here had not
the brave German assured him, by bullet messages, that the
longest way round was the shortest way home. Here Arnold
halted in seeking the relief of Fort Stanwix.

Numerous, very numerous, are the associations of this place ; nor
is there an area in all central New^ York abounding in memories of
men more noble, in events more decisive, or in scenes more
thrilling and important.

Referring, as I now am, to some of the event;;; that have made
this section of our valley so historic, may I add; few have ever
estimated the strategic importance of central New York, and the
bearing its topography has exerted upon our national destiny. In
the line of hills a little to the soutli of us, no less than three
streams have their rise, wliich with our own gently flowing
Mohawk and the Hudson command nearly one-half the e- 'em area

of these ITniterl States; and by following the course of our streams
and valleys we can invade no less than twenty States and two-
thirds of the territories of the union. Streams form a nation's
natural defense and are her proper highways; so have believed the
mighty conquerors of the past, and mucli later the confederates
in our recent war. In no mean sense then, New York State com-
mands the iniion. Nor can there bo but one government on this
continent so long as our rivers, valleys and mountains remain as
now. The honored President of this society, Horatio Seymour,
the sage of Deerfield

Qui decori decus addit avuo,

assures us that, in company with General Winfield Scott, from an
elevated point near the confluence of the Mohawk and the Hudson
rivers, he overlooked the range of higlilands which marked their
courses; and that the hero of so many battles, stretching out hia
arm, remarked : "Ilcmomber this has been the strategic point in
all the wars waged for the control of this continent." And this
is simply one of the highlands of our State. Add to it those of
which I have just spoken, those wooded summits which the sun
first doth gild, and from them we can pass down not merely to our
seaboard cities, but to the vast, vast acres which make our
reunited and prosperous country.

The Fort that formerly occupied this site was built in 1759;
more than forty years after the erection of Forts Ticonderoga and
Onondaga, and some forty-seven years after Fort Hunter, the lat-
ter being the first Fort erected among the Five Nations. It was
merely one in a long chain of similar structures that united the
waters of the Hudson with the vleeper and bluer waters of our
western lakes. On the west, the nearer were Forts Bull and
William, with Forts Herkimer and Hendricks at the east. It had
its origin in the colonics desiring to strengthen themselves in this
valley, and the necessity of supplies and ammunition being con-
veniently located, as well as shelter for the settlers when threatened
or pursued by thirsty and bloody foes.

Under date of July 16, 1755, the lords of trade wrote to Gov-
ernor Hardy for an opinion as to the best system to be laid down
for the defense of the frontiers; ibr the management of the
Indians; what Forts should be built, where located, and the num-
ber of troops required to give efficiency to the colonies. Hardy,
in replying to this communication, suggested that three Forts
should be erected on the northern frontiers; one on the Hudson

river; anothor at Lake George; a tliird at or about where Wood
creek and South Buy mix their waters; another in the Onondaga
country where tlie f^cneral councils of the Six Nations were held;
and still another some eighty miles to the west of Oswego. They
were not, however, to be ecjiial in extent, nor of tlie same magni-
tude. On the contrary, he exprcssily mentions that some, as Fort
Onondaga, need not be very strong, as a picketed one with a num-
ber of block-liouses would be sufKcieiit, The recommendations of
the governor were adopted. So soon, therefore, as aat'"'.fity
arrived for their erection they were begun. As General SI irley
at this time was in command of the north and western frontier, iie
imd^rtook the construction of the more needed cues, leaving the
less important to be built after the com})lelion of those demanded
for strategic pnrjjos^^-s. To his honor and magnanimity be it said,
not one was located arbitrarily. On the other hand, he not only
sought the permission of the Indians, but solicited also their active
co-operation. Notably was this true of the Fort built at Oneida.
Ere, however, the plans of the government could be carried out,
Shirley was superseded by the Earl of Loudon ; it was, therefore,
under his administration that this particular Fort was built, and
from whom also it I'cceived, so to say, its cliarge. Before the
Indians yielded their assent to the multiplication of defenses
among them, inasmuch as they were desired for the present emerg-
ency, and their erection somewhat interfered with their fishing and
hunting places, and they who garrisoned them too frequently
abused their privilege, it was expressly stipulated that all minor
pests should be destroyed, so soon as the war ended.

The size and shape of Fort Schuyler I have yet to learn, as well
as the s])ecial character of its construction. As Fort Stanwix at
Home was erected the year j)revious, and at an expense of nearly
three hundred thousaiul dollars, and upon the most true and
approved scientific principles of military engineering, it is not
probable that the Fort on whose site we are now met was either
as costly or extensive. Rather, since the completion of Fort
Stanwix gave abundant accommodations for a large garrison, and
afforded comi)lete shelter for sup])!!! s and fugitives, it is more than
probable that it was a simple block-house, with openings for can-
non and musket, and i)alisaded so as to furnish proper protection
to all needing it for safety or aggressive warfare. I thus (^peak,
for such was the character of the Forts to the east which occupied
similar subordinate positions. In Barber's collection of New York,
we are told that the "first building erected within the limits of

Utica VV.18 a mud fort, during the old Frencli war. It was situated
between Main street and the bank of tlie river a little eastward of
Second street." When Fort Schuyler had accoin])lished its mis-
sion, or the war over, the authorities kept the promise made to the
allies, and with other constructions of like character, it was given
over to decay.

Following the custom of the day the Fort was named for an
officer, at this very period in the acrive service of his country,
Colonel Peter Schuyler, of New Jersey. Already had the noble
deeds of Peter Schuyler, of Albany, btcome household words; but
as the dash, bravery, heroism and i)hilanthro])y of his namesake
were daily coming more and more into view, and were command-
ing the astonishment and admiration of his countrymen, it received
his name, simply as a feeble acknowledgment of the services he
liad already rendered the government, as well as a reminder for
further faithfulness, devotion and sacrifice.

That the Fort was called for the Jersey and not for the Albanian
Schuyler, we need but recall the custom that prevailed at this day
in naming every stockade or defense for an officer then in active
service. Unhappily when its foundations were laid Peter Schuyler,
of Albany, had been in his grave twenty-five years, while his name-
sake of Xew Jersey was in command of the Jersey Blues then
garrisoning Oswego. Nor among all the officers in the army was
there one more popular, self-sacrificing, or the recipient of higher
honors. When others were timid and doubtful, he was bohl ; when
they i)arleyed and delayed, lie was nervous and anxious for action;
when the State was unable to pay its troops, he advanced moneys
for the san^fl from his private resources ; and more especially, when
the general government could not and did not ransom her soldiers
from captivity, Peter Schuyler, of New Jersey, became their
deliverer by personally purchasing their redemption, and with no
hope of retuni. Indeed his bravery, patriotism and philanthropy
endeared him to the whole country. It is likewise the testimony
and tradition of his descendants still living in New Jersey, that it
was their ancestor for whom tliis Fort was called ; and at this very
hour their choicr^t heirloom consists of the sword once worn by
their noble sire during his campaigns in our valley, when the old
block-house first came into being. While Peter Schuyler, of
Albany, had frequently given his services to his country, and
enjoyed a most enviable reputation among the Indians, he was^
however, more a man of peace; in fact, he was offered the
honor of knighthood for his civic services. Peter Schuyler, of

New Jei*sey, was a man of war, and for liis mliitary dash and
sagacity received the commenihition of tlio English i)arliament,
througli William Pitt; while the colonies manifested their gratitndo
for his great philanthropy by frequently rendering him unwonted
honors.

As in studying the earl} lustory of this section of our State, we
frequently meet with the names Fort Schuyler and Old Fort
Schuyler, luay I observe in ])assing, that during the '{evolutionary
war an attempt was made to give the name of Scnuyler to the
Fort erected on or near the site of Fort Stanwix, at Home; while
th Fort which we this day would commemorate was alluded to
us Old Fort Schuyler. But as these two Forts derived their names
from two ditterent indivduals of the same distinguished family, so
did they occupy ditferent cites. To repeat, our Fort Schuyler
derived its name from Colonel Peter Schuyler, of New Jersey, and
of Indian renown ; while the Fort which supj)lanted Fort Stanwix
was called after General Philip Schuyler, of New York, and of
Revolutionary memory.

Here un imperfect sketch of the Schuyler family will not be out
of place.

The family of Schuyler has always played a most important
part in the history of our commonwealth. The first who appears
on the historical page Avas Philip Pieterscn Schuyler, a pi' re
Hollander, who came to these western shores in 1G50. His ^m-
cestral acres lay about the famous old city of Dordrecht. After
an honored career, he died on the 0th of jMry, 1683, O. S. and was
buried in tbe old Dutch church at Albany. His fourth child bore
his father's name, nor was he any the less distinguished. He was

7 ^ CD

born at the city of Albany, and after its incorporation became its
first mayor, occupying this position from 1680 to 1694. In 1688 he
received the commissioji of major of the militia, and before the close
of the year was given command of the B''ort in his native city. He
was also made a member and, at a later period, became tlu' president
of his majesty's council for the province of New York ; and for a
while acting governor of the colony. He was chief commission ,'r
for India' aflfairs, and held that arduous and responsible posi-
tion man^ years. To impress the government of Queen Anne
with the character of its allies, in 1710 he visited England, taking
with him several Iroquois chiefs with whose constituency he was
on terras of intimacy. As a token of her respect for the services
he had rendered the government, Queen Anne presented him on his
return with a silver vase. This was the Schuyler whom the
Indians loved to call "Brother Queder." He died in 1724.

■^ta^MABfia

i i

The iiintli cliild of Philij) Pioterscn Schuyler was .lolin, whose
sou John was the honored father of General Philii) Schuyler, the
trusted and tried fiiend of America, and who fought iso bravely
for her iiid'j]»;Midence. He was l)ai)ti/ed, as was his friend
Benjamin Franklin, on the day of his birth.

The sixth child of Philip Pietersen was Arent Schuyler, who was
born in the city of Albany in 1G02. He was given the name of
his niatern.d _randfath'M\ He married Jenneke Teller, No/ember
26th, 1684, and commenced house-keepinu; on North Peai I street,
Aioany, as the records read, "in the house where the eag.e hangs
out." Th(^ notarial papers inform us that as his name Arent
meant eagle, he hung out in a cage a live eagle, to mark his
residence, instead of a door plate. About the year 1093, he
removed to New York city. In an Indian deed dated July 13th,
1696, he is styled, " Merchant of the city of New York."
Having purchased, however, an extensive tract of land in N'iw
Jersey, near Pompton, he removed there perhaps in 1706, and evcv
afterwards regarded this State as his hcmie. In vXpril, 1710, he
purchased an additional farm on New Barbadoes Neck, the present
site of Belleville, to which he removed the same year.

As an illustration of the surj)rises that await the more bold and
adventurous, let me relate an incident which, as we shall see, gave
him no mean wealth, as well as social inilueuce, in his adopted
State. As one of his negroes was plowin[ he happened to turn
up a greenish heavy stone, which he took to his master, who, dis-
covering that it contained copper, sent it to P]ngland for analysis.
It was found to possess eighty per cent of this valued metal.
Desiring to reward the faithful and thoughtful slave, Schuyler
asked him to name three things that he desired most, assuring him
that his wishes would be gravely considered. The slave answered
first, that he might remain with his master as long as he lived;
second, that he might have all the tobacco he could smoke; and
third, that he might have a dressing-gown like his tYiaster's, with
big V)rass buttons. Schuyler suggested he should ask for some-
thing ihore. After a moment's thought, the negro replied ''that
he might have a little more tobacco." How true that were the
loftiest ambition of some fully gratified, it would end in smoke !

The family of Arent Schuyler consisted of his sons Philip,
Casperus, John, Peter, Adoniah, and his daughters Eve and
Cornelia. His third son William died in infancy. Peter, his fifth
son, the noble man whom we this day would honor, was born on
his father's farm in 1710; whether the one at Pompton or Belle-

villo it is diffiouU to say. Of hi.j early days little is known beyond
his receivintf a liberal education, and snch as qnaliiiod bim for
future usefulness.

His father dyin.i? in 1730, and leavinij I1..1 by li's will some
eeven hundred and sixty aeres of land near the Ividiwry 1 -ver, on
the site of the present city of Elizabeth, led him to nia^o New
Jersey his home. He married Mary, daughter of John Walter,
of New York, a man of considerable influence and fjreat wealth,
who lived at this period in Hanover scpiare in the same city. It
appears he had but one child, a daUi^hter named Catharine; to
whom, as his will reads, he bequeaths all the residue of his estate,
and her heirs and assigns for ever.

Ibit rather than occupy ourselves with the biojifraphy of Colonel
Schuyler, since he was quite a prominent tiijfure in the struggle in
which the colonists were now engaged, let me, though nece^ irily
very imperfectly, review the condition of the country at this U
and as we unfold it, mark the man.

From the hour in which the French had obtained a foot hold on
American soil, and had become? :icquainted with its general
character, they coveted to make it a dependency of the French
crown. For the accomplishment of this purpose, every known
expedient was resorted to from actual jjurchase, to forcible
expulsion. To add efticiency to their desigti, a chain of Forts was
begun to extend from Canada to the mouth of the INIississippi;
while later they w( re planted westward as far as the ]>resent city
of Detroit; thus literally to hem in the colonists, and when the
j)roper hour arrived to take possession of the country. The
formal declaration of war, by the powers in Europe in 1744, added
to the growing hatred of the contending parties; and laid open
our frontier State wider to all the horrors with which they had
become already too familiar. Indeed, the atrocities of the French
rapidly assumed such proportions, that i-he province became most
clearly impressed with the conviction that their only permanent
safety lay in the conquest of Canada, and in making it a tribute
to the English realm. With this in view, Governor Shirley, of
Massachusetts, proposed at once the capturing of Louisburg, and
particularly it, since all conceded this settlement to be the key to
the French occupation. At the same time aid was dispatched to
Oswego, the many frontier Forts were strengthened, and measures
entered upon to engage the Iroquois in the war now upon the
nation. While the colonists were thus paying their attention to
the invaders at Cape Breton, all the country, especially that

ssm

I !

portion along onr northern frontier, was kept in perpetual disturl)-
aiice, by the actions of the French and their tawny allies.

B\if to attempt any history of tlie atrocities of the Frendi at
this time, along tlie frontiers of our State, would he merely a
recapitulation of the massacre at Schenectady in 1000, and tho
still later barbarities of Wyoming and Cherry Valleys. As they
were of an uncalled for character they awoke a spirit of determined
resistance among the colonies, and spurred them to vigilance and
action. Among other results thev drew Colonel I'eter Schuvler
from his Jersey acres, and led him to offer his services to the
country. This was in 1 740. The records of the acts of the New
Jersey legislature for this year contain the following : " For colonel
of the forces raised in this province for the intended expedition,
it is unanimously reconunended his honor, Peter Schyider, Esq.,
a gentleman well-known to several members of this board, of good
estate atid reputation, and very proper to be coinmissionated for
the ])urpose." Having accepted this high and responsible
position, oiu" hero was iran)ediately ordered to ])rocecd to Oswego,
to garrison the Fort, and make ready for any servici' to which ho
might be summoned. Surrounding himself with the troops he
had been able to enlist, on the third of September he embarked at
Amboy, en route for Oswego, via the Hudson river and Albany.
As the government, however, had failed to furnish the necessary
additional force, that was to come from England, Schuyler, after
a delay of live months in Albany, w.iS recalled. Though deeply
chagrined at the failure of the home governnient to redeem its
promise, and the inefficiency also of those who had the care of
colonial affairs, this experience, however, simply brought out
some of his more prominent characteristics, and led the
authorities to see with whom they were dealing. Duruig his
detention at Albany, he informed the New Jersey governor that
his men were in want of a surgeon, medicine, shirts, flints, colors,
bread and peas. Besides this, unless they soon received their pay,
they had threatened to leave; taking with them their arras and
ammunition. In Governor Hamilton's reply to tiieir communica-
tion, he complimented Colonel Schuyler for the zeal he had shown
in his majesty's service ; and at the same time gave him assurance
that that very day he had ordered for each one of his soldiers a
pair of shoes and two speckled shirts. But as the troops felt that
this promise of the authorities would be similar to others with
which they had become acquainted, Colonel Schuyler, fearing they
might desert, advanced from his own private means several

thousand pounds, cnoui^li to meet tlicir wants, and to siU'noc all
their murmurs. The more important nci'ds of his men having
thus been mot, Cohjiud Schuyler was ordered to proeeed to
Saratoga and await the commands that tliere would he sent him.
Unfortunately, the same experiences that had overtaken him
while at Albany were here repeated ; and they were met in the
same way. In the mean time, articles of ])eace were signed at
Aix la Chapelle, whicli bringing an end to the war, left Colonel
Schuyler nothing to do but to return to New Jersey; where, after
a tew weeks' delay he found himself engaged once more in his
former labors.

Though tho war had bei'u officially declaied to be at an end, so
far, however, as America was concerned, after all nothing really
had been gained. On the contrary, the country had greatly
sutt'ered, and so had humanity. The bimndaries between British
and French possessions were yet unsettled ; nor had either con-
testant acknowledged tho right of the other to portions of Maine;
but morr' particularly to tho basin of the Ohio. With such
important cpiestions unadjusted, the opjiortunities for renewing
old hostilities were exceedingly fre<iuent ; so much so that even
an unprejudiced mind easily discovered them. The following
added very nnich to the acciimulating complications. The
English governmriit, (under the treaty of Lancaster of I74f) had
])crniitted Virginia to assume the right of territory as far west
as the Mississipj)i. In harmony with this treaty, a large grant of
land situated on the Ohio river was given to several individuals
of wealth and influence, residing in England and in Virginia.
The grantees on taking possession of their property naturally
adopted measures for their government and ])rotection. The
goverimicnt in Canada having learned of these proceedings, and
regarding them as an intrusion upon French rights, informed the
governors of New York and Pennsylvania of the encroachments
thus made; an J warned them that in case they did not desist,
such steps would be taken as the invasion of a domain demanded.
His threats receiving no attention, in pursuance of his purpose,
the French governor ordered his troops to the town of Picqua, in
the valley of the Miami, to demand its surrender with the English
traders therein and their eifects. The Indians in charge, declaring
that the English were their guests, refused ; whereupon the
French assaulted the town and destroyed the Fort, and to show,
it may be, the determination with which they proposed to carry
out their measures, the king of the Piaukeshawa was sacrificed

and eaten. Tlm-<, in Ohio hcnjun anew tiiiit. tliiiim \vhos(( burioil
fircH were onou more to illuminate not simply tlu; western frontiers,
but the homes and the hearths of all the coloides.

Dinwiddie, the lieutenant ijovernor of Virginia, regarding eon-
duct so unprovoked as tantamount to an invasion, in 1763,
dispatched Major (reori^e Wasliini^ton with a letter to the eom-
inander of the French forces in the Ohio, demanding that he with-
draw from the territory of his majesty, and make due explanation
for an act so (histardly and cruel. De St. Pierre then the commander
of the Ohio, who ret .ived this letter, replied that he had acted
from instructions given him by the trovernor general of Canada;
still he would forward to him the communication. While the
correspondence was progressing, the French increased tho
diitieulties by fitting out an expedition under Diupiesne to occupy
the Ohio valley ; learning which the Indians determined to resist.
Two feet runners passed down this very valley to the home of
Sir William Johnson with belts, soliciting his assistance. At tho
same time an Indian envov met the French at Niagara, and
warned them back. Nothing daunted, however, they pushed on,
till they came to the harbor of Erie, where they were again
entreated to return. As the speech of Tamacharisson, the half
king, brought a reply from the French commander that proved a
hurricane to the flames already smoldering, permit me to repro-
duce the two in their entirety. " Father," said the Indian, "you
are disturl)ers in this land, l)y taking it away unknown to us and
by force. This is our land, and not yours. Father, both you and
the P]nglish are white; we live in a country between. Therefore
the land belongs to neither the one nor the other of you; but tho
Great Being above allowed it to be a dwelling place for us ; so,
father, I desire you to withdraw, as I haA'e done our brothers,
the English."

"Child," replied the French officer, "you talk foolishly; you
say the land belongs to you ; but not cO much of it as the black
of your nails is yours. It is my land; and I will have it, let who
will stand up against it." What arrogance ! What assumption !
Who can wonder that such words should quicken, inflame and
curdle even Indian blood.

The mission of Washington proving as fruitless as the entreaties
of the Indians, on his return to Virginia ])reparation3 were
immediately made to assert the right of the colonists. As soon as
possible a regiment was raised, and under the command of
Washington moved for the Ohio; but meeting with defeat

VOll

notliiiifT was accomplislied, Alioady liiid the French advanced a»
far eastward as the present site of Pittshurjjf; and ai(l«'<l by a
strong force under Do Contrectcur possessed tlietnselves of the
Fort the Virs^inians had here erected. It was at this time that the
colonists were exiiorted to confederacy. Accordingly, on tho
10th of June, 1154, a conference of conunissioners from every
State north of the Potomac met in Albany, to consider a plan
which their own needs and the exigency of the hour demanded.
It was the o|)inion ol every member of the council, that a union of
all the colonies v as absolutely recjuired. From this hour tho
French discovered the English were in earnest ; nor were they
deceived. The '•'"■tes having become confederated felt their
duties and re^p >-. '-'"es. Concerted measures were therefore
prepared, not n. j check the advance of the Frencli, but to

drive them out or me country. Massachueetts, New York, New
Jersey, Pennsylvani.' and Virginia immediately voted supplies for
the campaign, and rnmy of their valiant sons were soon on the
march. The resolves of the colonists quite paralyzed tho
home government. While, however, it was hesitating, the Duke
of Cambridge, early in 177ri, sent over General IJraddock with a
detachment of the army in Ireland, to be used by the colonies as
were their needs. One of the tirst measures adopted by Braddock
after his arrival was calling together the several governors, for
the double purpose of learning the true condition of affairs, and to
agree on some [)lan for united action. This council convened at
Alexandria, in Virginia, April 14, 1755, at which the following
four expeditions were agreed upon : The first was to be directed
against Fort Duquesne, to be commanded by Braddock in person ;
the second, to capture Forts Frontenac and Niagara, under
General Shirley; the third, to seize Crown Point, under the
leadership of General William Johnson ; while the last, under
Lawrence, the lieutenant governor of Nova vScotia, was to reduce
this province, according to the English interpretation of its
boundaries.

It was now that the martial and patriotic spirit of Colonel Peter
Schuyler bt-came again aroused, and that he puts his sword and
life at the control of his country. Since his former campaigns had
made him quite familiar with frontier life, he was at once
ordered to occupy with his regiment Fort Oswego, which
he did, reaching it July 20, 1755. As B»addcck, however,
had just experienced an inglorious defeat, which exposed
the State of New Jersey to the inroads of the French hirelings.

FT"

^il

in December of the same year, lie was instructed to abandon
Oswego, return lionie and prepare for such contingencies, to which
it was thought the recent reverses must k'ad. During the winter,
)ie occupied a block-house on the banks of the Delaware. In the
spring, on his return to the north, he was ordered back to Oswego,
which, after many delays, he reached July 1, 1756. On his
arrival, learning that Montcalm had determined on the invasion of
the province, and that he j)ro|)osed to begin hj- the reduction of
the Fort at Oswego, Colonel Schuyler prepared himself for the
threatened conflict. Meanwhile, the provincials, learning through
Indian spies of the proposed attack, instructed General Webb to
march with the force at his command to Schuyler's relief. lie
failed to arrive in time. The Fort was attacked with great
earnestness and vigor. When the struggle began. Colonel Schuyler
was posted with his men some six Iiundred yards to the westward
of the Fort, in a small) unfinished redoubt, used for keeping
cattie; and in the afternoon of the same day was busy in cutting
down the bushes near the Fort and making fascines. The next
morning. Colonel IVfercer, the commander of the garrison, was
killed. On learning his death, Lieutenant Colonel Liltlehales sent
for ^Colonel Schuyler, and, after a council of war, orders were
issued to cease firing and prepare for cajjitulation. Colonel
Schuyler opj)osed the surrender; but being over-ruled was obliged
to yield. It would be difficult to find in all history a more
ignonunous submission, though it stipulate(l that the entire
garrison should march out wi( the full honors of war. On
razing the Fort, Montcalm immediately returned to Canada,
carrying among other prisoners, the brave, uncompromising
Colonel Schuyler, the hero of this happy hour.

Thougii in captivity and in the hands of his enemies, if caring
for one's command and mitigating the hard trials of his fellow-
countrymen, situated as was he, in providing for their wants, and
in aiding the poor Indians who, through this and other disasters to
provincial arms, had fallen into French hands, be any indication
of loyalty — or true manhood, even in Canada, Colomd Schuyler
was none the less active in the interests of his country than when
in the field. His military abilitie:*, social position and ntagna-
nimity of spirit were soon discovered by the French, and duly
acknowledged. Liberties were accorded to him that others Imd
never enjoyed, which he embraced ; nor did he ever abuse them.
As he loved his country and Hs flag, so did he love her sons and
her wards.

Away from the noise of war ai»<l in retirement, he spent his
time not in planning new canipaiij;ns, nor in (U'visinj; means for
escape; bnt in visitini;, comforting and caring for the nnhappy
prison soldiers about him, Knglish, American and Indian, who,
through the chances of war, had beco. 'C captives. Fatiiers and sons^
who could illy be spared from their homes, he gladly and promptly
ransomed from his private purse; while for the sick he proeured
tmusual attention, knowing no nationality in his nunistries of
sympathy and love. In fact, during his stay in Canada, he was
allowed by the authorities to have a house by himself, whose doors
were ever wide open for his countrymen, all of whom were free to
visit him; norwere any who sought his kindly counsel or beiu'fac-
tions sent empty away. At this period in his history, he advanced
more than twenty thousand livres to secure the release of Indians,
personally caring for them until they were able to be retjirned to
their homes. Many provincials received advances in money, far
beyond their ability to pay; and when reproved for his liberality,
]w informed his censors that his silver could not be better be-
stowed. Nobleman! () generous heart ! When will others, with
far greater means, be moved with similar feelings for our common
hunninity, and leirn this })lain lesson, that moneys expended in the
interests of those who ])Ht their lives at the service of their coun-
try, is spent most In 'nanely, most wisely. Let those in our city,
whom fortune has favored, give as freely of their accumulations
or inheritance as did Colonel Peter Schuyler, for the heroes who
have gone forth from the homes about us, and this very hour, not
only would many a domestic want be met, but in some one of our
streets we should see a monument conmiomorative of their sacrifice
and heroism, iis stately, grand and beautiful as any which the sun
this day gilds, or which this night the stars silently watch and so
gladly look down upon.

In the :iutuinn of 1750, Colonel Schuyler was allowed on parole
to leave Montreal and visit the city of New York, bearing a
commission from the governor general of Canada to make terms
for the exchange of piisoners. Ho arrived in New York in
November; and as his reputation for sympathy, kindness and great
philanthropy — all that he had done tor the redemption of his
captive countrymen had preceded him, he was received with un-
usual demonstrations of joy. The same evening the city was
illuminated, bonfires were kindled on the common, and an elegant
entertainment awaited him at the King's Arm Tavern, where the
public generally testified their great gratification at his return^^

The next d.ay ho set out for lionio. His neighbors ana friends
■welcomed his arrival with cheers and the booming of cannon. On
visiting Newark the following day, the roar of cannon again
awaited him; the dwellings, also, of the people were illuminated,
an honor which they felt pre-eminently due him for his humanity,
as well as for his self-sacrifice and devotion to his country's
interests. On going to Princeton, similar marks of respect and
consideration were bestowed. As he entered that now classic towu»
the citizens went out to nu'et and escort him to his stopping place*
and as he approached, a young lady advancing, thus addressed
him:

Dear to eacli muse, and to my country dear,
Welcome once more to breathe tliy native air ;
Not half so cheering is the solar ray
To the harsh region of a winter's day ;
Not half 80 grateful fanning breezes rise
When the hot dog-star burns the summer skies ;
Caesar's shore with acclamation rings!,
And, welcome Schuyler, every shepherd sings;
See for thy brows the laurel is prepared,
And justly deemed a patriot, thy reward ;
E'en future ages shall enroll thy name
In sacred annals of immortal fame.

Thus • ' • it whenever he journeyed. The entire State was
moved by ms presence, and the distinguished in every walk of life
strove to do him honor. As many of her private sons could not
forget the favors which they had received, no more could the State
withhold paying him, on all proper occasions, the honor which his
services had so often and nobly won.

But the days of his parole soon passed away. In obedience to
his promise, should no exchange be made in his absence, he pre-
pared to return to the city of his ca))tivity. William Pitt, and
even the king himself, com])limented him for the zeal he had
manifested in the service. Still, on the expiration of his parole,
neither was able to redeem him. Even his jailer, the Marquis de
Vaudreuil, referred to him as " the brave old Peter Schuyler."' Leav-
ing, therefore, his honie he set out for Montreal, July 1, 1758,
arriving there late the same month. Before his departure from
New York, General Abercrombie invested him with full powers
for such an exchange of prisoners as the interests of the country
demanded. To what extent he was able to carry out the com-
mands of his senior officer is not known ; but it is known that
shortly after his arrival at Montreal he was exchanged for M. De

Noyan, the commandant at Fort Frontcnac. Onco more then at
liberty, he returned liome, having been absent nearly six months.
But he did not journey thitlierward alone; on the contrary, he
gathered up sucli English prisoners as he had been able to exchange,
and many also whom he had purchased from their captors with
his private funds, paying for the same a very high price. Indeed,
it is said on his arriving at Fort Edward, he had in his company
no less than eighty-eight men, women and cliildren ; among whom
was Mrs. Howe of New P]ngland, afterwards the heroine of a
romance styled, "The Fair Captive." IMr. George W. Schuyler of
Ithaca, N. Y., in furnisliing me with this interesting incident adds:
"while a prisoner Mrs. Howe was sought but not won, by two
Canadians, father and son. Her situation was embarrassing, but
Colonel Schuyler came to her relief. He secured her from her
suitors by buying her of her owner." Unhappily during Colonel
Schuyler's caj)tivity the war lost none of its virulence, nor had the
nations come to any better understanding of their rights, than if
a sword liad not been drawn. True, several attempts had been
made at invasion, and numerous plans had been proposed for at-
tacking the French and dispossessing them of their lands ; but
owing to serious disagreements among British and American or
provincial officers concerning rank, and the breaking out of small-pox
in the ai-my, nothing permanent had been accomplished. The recent
advent, however, of William Pitt to the premiership of'England
ga' e the colonists new hope, and inspired them with new purposes.
On his accession, three expeditions were immediately proposed,
one against Louisburg, the second against Crown Point and Ticon-
deroga, while the third was directed against Fort Duquesne;
resulting in the reduction of Louisburg, the occupation of Fort
Duquesne, but defeat at Crown Point and Ticonderoga. Though
the events of the year did not equal the expectations which bad
been entertained, from the joy and enthusiasm the change in the
English ministry had put into the heart of the colonists, the
advantages gained were marked and decisive. The acquisition of
the island of Cape Breton oj)ened the way to Quebec and up the
St. Lawrence ; and the success in the west enabled a stronger force
to be brought against Canada. It was, therefore, determined to
attempt by an overwhelming force once more the subjugation of
Canada; and thus close a war which had been so detrimental to
the interests of l)olh nations. Now it is that the brave Colonel
Schuyler is called again to the front with his Jersey Blues, and
with the combined forces of the provinces advances northward.

li^'i;

! liJi:

'ii:

In this expedition, he shows the same cure for his soldiers, and
exhibits the same devotioji to his country's welfare as in his
former cainpaiiriis. But withoiit following the army as it moved
for the Canadian lines, it need only be said that, this last invasion
resulted in the colonists, under I.ortl Amherst, finding their way
to Montreal; in I)e ^'audreuil surrendering all Canada; and in
our hcr<», Colonel Peter Schuyler, entering victoriously the city,
and seeing the flag of St, George float in glorious triumph on the
very gat<>s which but a short time before had kept liim in
captivity, ft need hardly be said that ])eace soon followed, though
the treaty for the same was not signed till November, 1 76'2. On
the ca|)itulation of Canada, Colonel Schuyler immediately returned
to his home on the banks of the Passaic, where after a brief rest,
he died, March 7, 1762, in the tifty-second year of his age;
leaving behind him a reputation for loyalty, bravery, benevolence
and chivalrous lionoi", unexcelled by any who had been engaged in
the conflict now tr'Mraphantly closed.

In person, Colonel Schuyler was tall and hardy, rather rough it
may be at flrst view, yet, after a little acqaintance revealing deep
and genuine sincerity. In conversation, he was above all artifice,
or the traffic of forms; yet he enjoyed friendshi]) with a true
relish, and in all the relations, what he seemed to be, he was. A
newspaper of the day concludes its reference to his character in
these words: "Wherefore, by their fruits ye shall know them."

Such, friends and fellow-citizens, is a rapid outline of the man,
and of his relation to our country, for whom this old Fort was
called ; nor could it have received a name more honorable, or one
that coidd awaken throughout the entire country more real,
genuine love and enthusiasm. It may have been, some officer
gave it this name because Colonel Schuyler had ransomed him,
and thus returned him to his home. Pe this, however, as it may,
it was the tribute of the province to a bold, brave, determined,
kind and faithful soldier and citizen. I greatly rejoice that our
loved city has blended with its origin a name so noble and so
historic, and one '^o free from stain and reproach, that other
generations, as well as our own, will delight to respect and invest
it with that accumulating glory which at all periods is so fully its
due.

I have dwelt too long upon the events with which Colonel
Schuyler was associated to think of commenting upon the sug-
gestivenesB of the exercises in which we are now engaged. There
come to me thoughts upon which I should love to dwell, and that

3ft

never can be too frequently alluded to, or too plainly expressed.
My friends, we but too feebly estimate the struggle in which
many of our honored sires were engaged, the price, the fearful
price, that has been paid for our country's liberties, and the great
courage, devotion and sacrifice they represent. A nation
knows nothing of abiding peace till nerve, muscle, heart, soul, all
we hold most dear, have been taxed to their utmost, and its altars
have been made crimson with blood. Under a benignant and
overruling providence, the peace and prosperity we this day enjoy
<5ome from the zeal, faith, courage, consecration and suffering of
those who have gone before. In this world, beautiful as it is,
peacefjl acres represent the price of blood. Would to (Jod that
we might remember this truth, not for vain glory but to honor
such as we tiiis day recall, to thank, to reward, to perpetuate. I
trust that the linie has forever passed when the tread of marshalled
men shall again shake this continent, and this beautiful valley
shall again resound with the notes of war, either for aggression or
defense. Our inheritance to-day is peace. Being therefore peace,
our only ambition should be to keep it, guard it most jealously
and sacredly; to be known and I'omembered for the multitude of
our virtues, and for the noble aspirations of sanctified and
cultivated genius. And the more so, since to attain this no city
need be sacked, no fields devasted, nor blood sIumI, not even a tear
fall. Next to suffering and dying for freedom, is the noble duty
to preserve it. The old Jewish rabbi was right when lie sai<l that,
were the sea ink and the 1 jiid parchment, the former could not bo
able to describe, nor the latter to comprise all the praise of liberty.
Liberty is tlie mother of every virtue and the best nurse of
genius. The immortal Burke, in one of his impassioned sentences,
asks, wliat is liberty without wisdom and without virtue? We
answer it is nothing. It is a vessel without a rudder, a charter
without a seal. Virtuous libL'rty should be our aim,*as it has been
the desire of all wiio have coveted its wealth, and who have
sought its establishment. P^very country thai submits to be a
land of slaves, <leserves to be a land of ruin. An Itali;in poet
once signalized his love of imperial Rome in these noble words:
" Eternal gods ! may ti)at day be the last on which I forget the
happiness of Home.'" So should we think, and so should we say.
He who is unwilling to imperil his life, if need be, at the summons
of holy freedom, does not merit life. He who sincerely loves his
country leaves the fragrance of a good name to many ages. But
I can not say what I would. I close, then, by remarking that it

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is written of Cicero, when he arrived at Atbeu8, he desired to bo
immediately led to the tomb of Archimedes, no doubt to abandon
himself to the inspirations which such a classic spot would so
naturally excite. Let me say, however, at this hour, to all such as
desire to lend themselves to the higher inspirations of valor,
courage, faithfulness, zeal, philanthropy and all that goes to make
up the honored citizen, the noble patriot, the brave soldier, the
modest and unassuming philanthropist, eon'o and visit this
triangular site; and as you walk about its grassy sides, and fe^TO
upon these warlike trophies that are to mark it, remeniber, it i'
thus that a grateful people would hallow the memory of their triei
servants ; atid especially, that this city would forever embalm lA
her purest affections and patriotic memories the name of Colonel
Peler Schuyler; he for whom its first structure was called, and
which had it received his good old Dutch name would have stin-ed
the proudest remembrances in every loyal heart, and such, in truth,
as no African city, though rich in narrative and radiant with
classic lame and glory, could possibly awaken.

One more period and I shall have finished. As a most fitting
sequel to my remarks, and to commemorate also this happy
occasion, tliere will now be flung to the breeze the first flag, bear-
ing on a swan white field the original State arms, as reconstructed
under the laws of 1882, and now the adopted insignia and banner of
our noble commonwealth. As it rises up yonder stafl", and
unfolds itself to be caught and waved and kissed again and again
by the j)as8ing wind, let it receive with its suggestive emblems,
that joyful salutation from you and from me also, which its first
appearance in our midst, and among the broad acres in our State,
80 projierly merits. >

Hail imperial Banner ! speed thy virgia way,
Utica first doth greet thee — this thy bridal day.

Tne benediction was pronounced by Rev. J. J. Emmegahbowh,
an Ojibway Indian missionary, in his native tongue.

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