Loyalist History Packs the House at Old Stone Fort

Jeff O'Connor presented On Penalty of Death- Loyalist Recruitment on New York's Western Frontier at the Old Stone Fort.

SCHOHARIE — History enthusiasts packed the Old Stone Fort Museum on April 11 for Jeff O’Connor’s compelling presentation, On Penalty of Death: Loyalist Recruitment on New York’s Western Frontier. The event drew a full house, with every seat filled and attendees eager to explore the lesser‑known Loyalist perspective of the American Revolutionary War.

O’Connor guided the audience through the fraught divide between Loyalists and Patriots, focusing on the experiences of those living in what is now Schoharie County. He highlighted the community of New Dorlach and detailed the activities that unfolded there, offering a vivid look at the tensions and dangers faced by residents who remained loyal to the British Crown. His deep knowledge and engaging delivery kept the crowd captivated throughout the program.

This presentation, along with Kevin Berner’s recent Bluebird program, is now available for viewing on Schopeg.com under Videos on Demand.

More History Programs Ahead

The Old Stone Fort’s spring lineup continues with several upcoming presentations:

May 2 – 2:00 PM

• The Battle of Normanskill and The Battle of the Flockey — presented by Mark Stolzenburg

3:30 PM — Jeff O’Connor returns with Schoharie County: The Breadbasket of the Revolution

May 16 – 2:00 PM

• Author Talk: Fallen Heroes: The Civil War Dead of the Town of Jefferson, Schoharie County — Stephanie Ruquet

May 30 – 2:00 PM

• Historic Marker Training Day & Presentation — Bill Bellinger

June 30 – 10:30 AM

• Eagles of Schoharie — Bill Combs

The museum’s robust schedule promises a season rich with local history, expert storytelling, and community engagement.