Fort Decker: MVHS hopes to continue to open Fort Decker on the last Sat.'s of the month between 1 and 4 PM through until October. It will next open to visitors on Aug. 27th. On the two final tour dates, there shall be a presentation by popular speaker, Frank Salvati, offered outdoors at 1:00 PM. On Sept. 24th, his topic will be "Betrayals - Surrender of Fort William Henry". On Oct. 29th, he'll talk about "Brant - After The War"- regarding the Mohawk chief who raided our Minisink region. Please bring a lawn chair for these "On the Lawn" specials - held weather-permitting.
MVHS Archives: Our archives at the Port Jervis Library is accessible by appointment. We remain extremely limited on the number of people allowed in our room, and need to implement a policy that anyone wishing to use the archive will have to make an appointment. Please plan ahead, especially If you are traveling from a distance, and contact us before finalizing your trip. We abide with the regulations of the Port Jervis Library - as the archive is located on the Upper Floor. If the library is closed - we cannot access.
Email: minisinkvalley@gmail.com
Also, please watch the Minisink Valley Facebook page for updates.
Port Jervis Transportation History Center:
https://pjthc.org/ | https://www.facebook.com/portjervisthc/
Do check back here and on our Facebook page for all updates.
Please keep in mind that while we could not remain open due to COVID, we still had expenses. We depend on your generous support to maintain the buildings and grounds, pay utilities, etc. We also welcome anyone interested in assisting as tour guide at the fort. Please contact the society.
All of us involved with the history of the Minisink Region share a common link - an uncommon love for the preservation of history. Part of that history is Fort Decker, constructed prior to 1760, and attacked during Joseph Brant's raid on the Minisink in 1779.
Unfortunately, time has ravaged our beloved Fort, and she now needs our help. Won't you consider making a small contribution of $10 (more if you can) to help keep the Fort from further decay? This will be a yearlong effort to raise funds for the restoration.
Please make a donation and pass the word of our efforts to your family, friends and co-workers to support this cause.
Within the yellow oval is the area of severe water damage.
While there is a need to re-point the entire building this side is critical.
Through the years different styles and types of masonry techniques have been applied to the building.
Much of this patch work has been deteriorating and needs our attention.
The spaces at ground level make wonderful entry ways for moisture and furry little critters.
The inside of the second floor fireplace - The water no longer leaks into the chimney since the copper caps were installed in 2011.
Damage to second Floor plaster wall against chimney and fireplace.
Minisink Valley Historical Society is a 501c3 - your tax-deductible gift in any amount is an investment that will be of direct benefit to Fort Decker. Minisink Valley Historical Society is an all volunteer organization.
or mail your contribution to
MVHS, PO Box 659, Port Jervis, NY 12771.
Click Here to download a printable pdf donation form/flyer.
