East Camp and West Camp

By November 1710, the Palatines had been moved north from New York City to East Camp and West Camp along the Hudson River.  Each family was given a 40’ by 50’ plot of land upon which they built huts and cleared an area for spring planting.  Robert Livingston, from whom Governor Hunter had purchased the land, had been given a contract to supply the Palatines with bread and beer.  Each family was also to receive beef or pork three times a week, and fish, cheese, flour or peas on the other four days.   Governor Hunter acquired additional funds to provide them with one dairy cow per family, and collectively three hundred horses, six hundred pigs, farm implements, and six hundred guns.   All of this cost more than what the British government had agreed to pay, so Hunter took out personal loans to cover it.  He strongly believed that the tar and pitch project would be so profitable that the government would gladly reimburse him.  Meanwhile the Listmasters kept accounts of how much each family received.  As the tar and pitch project couldn’t begin until spring, the Palatines were growing deeper and deeper in debt.

The inactivity of the long winter of 1710 - 1711 bred discontent among the Palatines.  They were aware of the original plan to settle on fertile land in Schoharie, and felt betrayed.  Described in a letter to Governor Hunter, the following conversation which occurred around a fire one evening, gives indication as to their restlessness.

“We came to America to establish our families – to secure lands for our children, on which they will be able to support themselves after we die.  That we cannot do here.” said one man in disgust.

“What is to be done in that case, but to have patience?” replied one of his companions.

“Patience and Hope make fools of those who fill their bellies with them.”  responded the first man, quoting a familiar German saying.

 

Reference:  “Becoming German” by Phillip Otterness