by Margaret Kelly

While exploring Westchester County on a weekend you may not immediately think of Pelham. However, the people of this
distinctive and historically rich town may beg to differ. With the combination of a busy downtown business district, an
established art center, a variety of restaurants and a historic theater, Pelham maintains a certain small town charm.

Anne Hutchinson and sixteen colonists were the first inhabitants of Pelham in 1642. The colony thrived until August 20, 1643
when a massacre by the Siwanoy Indians killed Anne and all of the colonists. In 1654, Thomas Pell, an Englishmen from
Fairfield, Connecticut, signed a treaty with the Siwanoy Indians purchasing land that included present day Pelham and
extended along the Long Island Sound including the entire borough of the Bronx. Thomas Pell named this land after his
tutor, Pelham Burton.

The American Revolution also has roots in Pelham. On October 18, 1776, The Battle of Pelham was fought along Split Rock
Road and Wolf's Lane. During the battle, George Washington ordered that his troops fall back to what is currently White Plains.
This intelligent move helped Washington achieve his eventual victory.

On March 7, 1895 Pelham was incorporated as a town by State Legislature and was reduced to its current size. After
Westchester became a county in 1683 it was further divided into the Village of Pelham and Pelham Manor. Today, this
distinction remains. In 1848, the New Haven Railroad opened with a station called “Pelhamville.” The station still exists in
the downtown business district and links the small town to one of the greatest cultural centers of the world- New York City.

Interested in finding out more about Thomas Pell? After exploring Pelham, take the short trip to New Rochelle to explore
Bartow Mansion, Thomas Pell’s home and Pelham Bay Park where Anne Hutchinson first arrived. Bartow Mansion boasts
formal gardens and exhibits both the architecture of the 19 th century and the Greek Revival period. A gallery located in the
carriage house displays how the Mansion was run. Visitors can see where Thomas Pell signed the treaty between the
Siwanoy Indians in 1654.

As warmer weather rolls into historic Westchester County, there has never been a better time to get out and explore the village
of Pelham. Sitting just thirty minutes outside of New York City, Pelham remains highly accessible while maintaining all its
small town charm, making it a perfect destination for any weekend stroll. This June, the Pelham Art Center will take part in
a Street Fair where a diverse group of vendors will line the streets of Pelham selling various crafts and jewelry. Refreshments,
music and other attractions including a petting zoo for children will be located in the courtyard. For more information, please
email: info@pelhamartcenter.org.

Resources:
www.pelhamgov.com
www.historicpelham.com
www.co.westchester.ny.us/calendar
www.wikipedia.org