A History of Deerpark in Orange County, N. Y.

"A History of Deerpark in Orange County, N. Y." by Peter E. Gumaer is a historical account written in the late 19th century, specifically between the years of 1858 and 1862. The book focuses on the early settlement of Deerpark and its residents, outlining the genealogies, experiences, and hardships faced by the town's first settlers. It serves as a tribute to the pioneers and their descendants, capturing vital information about the area's history and the lives of its inhabitants. The opening of the history outlines Gumaer's motivation for writing the work, which stemmed from requests by local descendants wanting to know more about their ancestry. He reflects on the changes in community conversations from the time immediately following the Revolutionary War through the years of his own life. Gumaer shares his observations, interactions, and the knowledge he has amassed regarding the early settlers, their customs, and the evolving landscape of Deerpark. The narrative sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the area’s first inhabitants and their journeys, as well as the ecological and social transformations of the region over generations.