History of Ontario County, New York, part 1

History of Ontario County, New York

“History of Ontario County, New York: With Illustrations and Family Sketches of Some of the Prominent Men and Families” is a comprehensive historical compilation, organized by Lewis Cass Aldrich and meticulously edited by George Stillwell Conover. Published in 1893 by D. Mason & Co., Syracuse, N.Y., this monumental work illuminates the rich tapestry of Ontario County’s past. Recognizing the voluminous nature of the original single volume, it has been thoughtfully divided into two parts for convenience and accessibility. Part 1 encompasses the historical and biographical narrative of Ontario County, laying the foundation for the genealogical treasures contained in Part 2.

Indian Wars of New England

Indian Wars of New England

This post discusses the historiography of early Indian conflicts in New England, highlighting the contributions of William Hubbard, Church, Belknap, and Palfrey. It critiques Hubbard’s narrative as tedious and emphasizes Palfrey’s general overview, noting the limited focus on Indian-hostilities. The text outlines the periods of peace and subsequent violence, particularly referencing the impact of French and Indian alliances on English settlers from 1688 onward. It suggests the narrative is intended to offer a comprehensive account of these tumultuous interactions, from the Pequod Wars through French incursions.

Queen Anne’s War – Indian Wars

Map providing overview of European territories after Queen Anne's War

Queen Anne’s War, declared in May 1702, intensified conflicts in North America as the French governor of Canada encouraged Indian raids on British settlements. Despite a treaty with local tribes, violence erupted, with significant attacks in 1703-1708, including the devastating assault on Haverhill. Major English military responses, such as expeditions led by Colonel Church, resulted in temporary gains against the Indians and their French allies. Although hostilities continued, a semblance of peace was achieved by 1713, ending the brutal cycle of warfare on the New England frontiers.

Queen Anne’s War (1702-1713)

The post details the military engagements and strategies surrounding Queen Anne’s War, particularly in North America. It discusses the Spanish invasion of the Muskogee Confederacy in 1702, where Spanish forces were defeated by a coalition of Apalachicola and Chickasaw allies. The subsequent joint British and Muskogean invasions devastated Florida’s Spanish mission system between 1703 and 1707, leading to significant loss of life and the displacement of indigenous populations. Pierre Le Moyne’s military strategies aimed at driving colonists from Carolina ultimately failed with his death in 1706.