Minisink battle commemoration, picnic

MINISINK FORD, NY — The 224th anniversary of the Battle of Minisink will be observed on Sunday, July 20, at the Minisink Battleground Park in Minisink Ford.

Ceremonies this year begin at noon with a presentation by the Navasing Long Rifles, demonstrating 18th century camp life, clothing, weaponry, cooking and blacksmithing. The re-enactors will  camp out all weekend at the park and they welcome visitors.

Under the park’s covered pavilion at 2:30 p.m., noted local historians Peter Osborne and Mary Curtis will offer an informal discussion entitled “Reflections on the Battle of Minisink” .

Sullivan County Historian John Conway will deliver the keynote address and a special military salute will take place at 4:00 p.m.

Ceremonies recall the engagement which occurred on July 22, 1779. After a series of raids led by Mohawk Chief Joseph Brant around Port Jervis, NY, militiamen from Goshen and Sussex County, NJ pursued the Indian and Tory raiders along the Delaware River, catching up with them at Minisink Ford. About 40 of the militia died when Brant overran their positions after a day-long struggle.

The Upper Delaware Heritage Alliance will sponsor a picnic following the ceremony. Hamburgers, hot dogs, rolls, soda, and paper products will be provided by the UDHA. Guests are asked to contribute side dishes and desserts to share.