Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival Planned for Next Week

OAK HILL — Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival is just around the corner, promising an unforgettable weekend of larger-than-life musical performances. Scheduled for July 17-21 at the picturesque Walsh Farm in Oak Hill the 2024 installment of the legendary bluegrass celebration is set to be a highlight of the summer.

As anticipation builds, festival organizers are thrilled to unveil the complete stage schedules for Grey Fox 2024. Attendees can now plan their perfect festival weekend experience with ease, thanks to the newly released schedules and program book accessible through the Grey Fox Music Festival website. Physical copies of the Grey Fox program book will also be available to attendees on-site through

From main stage headliners like Del McCoury Band, Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, and Yonder Mountain String Band, to burgeoning talents and beloved bluegrass veterans, Grey Fox 2024 promises a diverse and satiating experience. Festival highlights include sit-ins from artist-in-residence Della Mae, the acclaimed Bluegrass Academy for Kids, providing young musicians a platform to improve their talent, and the highly anticipated Emerging Artists program, which features acts from all over the globe––this year including the award-winning South Korean bluegrass group Country GongBang. With exciting collaborations and surprise appearances in store, next weekend’s festivities are set to create lasting memories for all Grey Fox attendees. 

In addition to the outstanding musical lineup, Grey Fox continues its tradition of community engagement with the Grey Fox Workshops, where bluegrass enthusiasts of all skill levels can participate in interactive sessions led by industry experts. These workshops cover a range of topics from instrument technique to the history and future of bluegrass music.

"We can’t wait to welcome everyone to Walsh Farm for another fantastic festival experience,” shares festival director Mary Burdette. “As we approach next week’s event, I can’t help but look back on some of the incredible moments and memories we've shared over the years. Grey Fox 2024 is shaping up to be our best festival yet, with an amazing lineup and plenty of surprises in store. Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of music, community, and fun!"

A limited number of tickets for Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival 2024 are available now, offering various options including general admission passes and camping passes. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit GreyFoxBluegrass.com/Tickets.

WHAT: 24th Annual Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival

WHEN: Wednesday, July 17-Sunday, July 21, 2024

WHERE: 1 Poultney Road, Oak Hill, NY 12460

TICKETS: $90-330 (Free for 12 + under)

TICKET PURCHASE LINK: bit.ly/GreyFox24Tix

FESTIVAL WEBSITE: GreyFoxBluegrass.com 

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LEGISLATURE STUFF - The Future of the Fairgrounds

By Michael Ryan

CAIRO - In the near or distant future, “a lot of meetings will be had,” says Greene County Legislature chairman Patrick Linger, referring to the purchase of land in the town of Cairo and what will become of it.

Lawmakers, at a recent meeting, approved a resolution authorizing the chairman to enter into a contract to obtain 16.85 acres that in the past served as what is known as the Old Cairo Fairgrounds.

The longtime overgrown lot is located between Route 84 and Main Street, selling for a cool $475,000 or just under $21,000 per acre.

“Greene County has been searching for a significant parcel of developable real property to plan for the future expansion and construction of the Greene County workplace campus,” the resolution states.

While the resolution goes on to declare the planned expansion includes the movement of multiple existing entities to the site, nothing is apparently written in stone at this early stage.

It is possible that the headquarters for the current Greene County Soil & Water Conservation District and Hudson Valley Center for Veteran Reintegration would move there.

Likewise transferring from their present spot, at an antiquated building next to Angelo Canna Park in Cairo, would be the county’s Mental Health and Community Services offices, according to the resolution.

There could further be a shifting of the county’s Records Management Center from Catskill to Cairo, spread out on the former fairgrounds.

Those ideas are in fact written on paper, but Linger, in a phone interview   said, “nothing has been decided,” in terms of what might go where.

“There are a lot of meetings that will need to take place before a decision is made,” Liger said, noting the potential project was a continuing topic of discussion during a legislative workshop, last week.

“We will first want to hear from the community to find out their thoughts,” Linger said, emphasizing the effort is two-fold.

Lawmakers, over the last two years, have been conducting engineering examinations of what is commonly called the Mental Health building.

It is situated at what, in a previous incarnation, was known as the county farm, built in 1883, in no way intended for its current usage, housing the Soil and Water District, Veterans Reintegration and Mental Health.

The building has a 19th Century Style cupola that is perhaps charming but deteriorated to the point where birds are more comfy there than humans.

Studies financed by the county to determine the condition of the building have shown it is still solid but “it was never designed to be conducive for our operations,” Linger said, 

Even as conversations are happening surrounding what could eventually emerge at the old fairgrounds, separate discussions would need to simultaneously occur on the fate of the Mental Health building.

“We are very early in that process,” Linger said. “If somebody wanted to go in there and renovate, there is some cosmetic stuff that needs to be done but that would be fine. Or it may be torn down.”

Public input would similarly be sought before a direction is nailed down with Linger noting the current building is not handicapped accessible or up to 21st Century specifications, such as elevators, cooling and heating, etc.

Meanwhile,officials say the fairgrounds property would nicely accommodate a new municipal building, having ample room and good dirt.

Well aware this day was coming, Linger said lawmakers have been setting aside funding for this project as well as others, eliminating the need to borrow money while also not impacting property taxes.

County officials say the tires were kicked at the fairgrounds before agreeing to make the deal, checking for anything that would inhibit development, such as archaeological finds, wetlands, etc.

The fairgrounds have been utilized for a myriad of purposes, rolling out the red carpet for the Greene County Fair beginning in 1870, just prior the construction of the county farm.

Lawmaker Harry Lennon (District 8, Cairo), recalled, in a phone interview that the fairgrounds, in his teens, hosted Sunday stock car races.

Horse-racing took place too, on a smooth track, although within the past half-century, most likely only woodchucks, mice and a few dogs and perhaps coyotes) have done any trotting in the brush there.

It is anticipated that whatever lawmakers choose, groundbreaking would not be seen until 2025, requiring two to three years to complete.

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Greene County Legislature Explores Maplecrest Bridge

By Michael Ryan

WINDHAM - There were no comments made when the Greene County Legislature held a public hearing on the replacement of the bridge connecting the hamlet of Maplecrest with the rest of the world.

Lawmakers hosted the required session on Monday night, continuing a process that may run into legal snags before coming to fruition.

County officials are hopeful that three necessary right-of-way acquisitions will go smoothly, including the former Morrow’s General Store and Maplecrest post office.

That historic structure, which rests at the juncture of county routes 40 and 56, must be removed in order to most effectively accomplish the project, according to engineers from Barton & Loguidice.

Engineers detailed the right-of-way acquisition procedure during the public hearing, explaining that the initial step will be a private visit by a property specialist to the involved landowners.

Those property owners also include the Catskill Mountain Foundation and the town of Windham, impacting various aspects of the job.

As part of the personal visit, the property specialist will welcome input from the landowner, gathering information from them that will lead to an appraisal being made on the site.

An offer will then be submitted to the landowner, based upon what the engineers termed “just compensation” for the right-of-way.

The price will be determined by fair market value which will be “nothing less than the highest appraisal amount,” engineers said.

It is hoped a simple transference of deed will follow, although the appraisal can be appealed by a landowner, potentially lengthening the process and delaying reconstruction.

County highway superintendent Scott Templeton appeared before the town of Windham  a year ago, outlining the project that is expected to have a price tag in the vicinity of $2 million.

The county has concluded that Morrow’s Store, a quaint but antiquated structure, must be removed in order to facilitate the work.

While nothing is certain at this early stage, about how complex the required securing of various rights-of-way might unfold, it may be necessary for the county to turn to eminent domain.

It is rare for the county to resort to that complexity. Lawmakers, last month, approved a resolution mapping out the replacement which will include a realignment of the bridge and intersection and a switch of Stop signs.

Templeton anticipates that resolving all right-of-way issues will easily extend into 2025 with construction not beginning until 2026.

Once the job is completed, the intersection will be significantly changed, coming to a T where the two roads meet rather than the somewhat confusing twin curves currently in play.

As Route 40 comes down a rather steep incline from the town of Jewett, there will be a Stop sign before continuing onto Windham.

An existing, one-way Stop sign, where Route 56 begins and heads toward Big Hollow, will be gone, better indicating which road is which.

A major culvert relocation will occur on the upper end of Route 40. Pre-cast slabs will form the base of the new bridge that will have two, 10-foot wide travel lanes, measuring just under 30’ overall.

The resolution approved by lawmakers states that Greene County, “owns and is responsible for the maintenance and repair of CR 40 (Maplecrest Road) and CR 56, including the bridge that carries CR 40 over the Bataviakill  Kill in the Town of Windham.

“The existing bridge was constructed in 1936 and consists of a single span superstructure with prestressed concrete voided slab units founded on cast-in-place concrete abutments,” exceeding its expected lifespan.

“A 2020 Biennial Inspection of the bridge resulted in a rating indicating that the structure is moderately deteriorated, and that major repairs or a complete replacement would be required in the near future.

“The streambed of the Bataviakill below the bridge is degrading due to the poor alignment of the existing bridge abutments and stream channel.

“The alignment of the CR 40 and CR 56 intersection immediately east of the bridge has multiple geometric deficiencies,” the resolution states.

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Out Lexington Way

By Christine Dwon

We extend deepest sympathy to all the family and friends of Albert VanEtten who passed away last week.

What a wonderful worship service on July 7 under the Lexington Pavilion.  There were over 60 in attendance and it was Pastor Mark Hamann’s first service as the new Pastor for the Mountain Top Parish Churches.  It was such a pleasure to meet him and fiance MacKenzie.  A bountiful covered dish lunch was held after the service.  

Happy birthday to Bailey Lynne Aurigema on Thursday, July 11.

Sunday, July 14 is Wilma and Ed France’s wedding anniversary.

Happy birthday to Irene Barnum on Sunday, July14.

July 14 is also Benjamin Randolph’s birthday.

Karen Aurigema’s birthday is Monday, July 15.

Also celebrating a birthday on July 15 is Keith Mellott.

Happy birthday to Cheyanne Lee Clark on Tuesday, July 16.

Thursday, July, 18 is Jay Fink’s birthday.

Best wishes to everyone.

Saturday, July 13 is the 2nd annual Fashion Show and Tea Charity Event sponsored by the Kaaterskill United Methodist Church to benefit the Kaaterskill UMC Hunter Thrift Shop.  Donation at the door $10, items $10. The fashion show is being held in the Kaaterskill UMC, 5942 Main Street, Tannersville from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., refreshments served.  There is a need of fashion models of all ages and sizes.  Also accepting new and gently used designer clothing.  If you have questions, please call Sue at 518-947-4100 or Leslie at 646-425-1351.

Sunday, July 14 at 9 a.m. the Lexington/West Kill UMC will have worship service in the West Kill Methodist Church.  All are welcomed.

Also on Sunday, July 14 at 2 p.m. you are invited to the Mitchell Hollow Chapel service, 901 Mill Street and Mitchell Hollow Road, Windham.  Lula Anderson will be the speaker.  There will be special music – guitar and singing with Eric and Arlene.  Please come to help maintain this non-denominational historic church.

The next Lexington Farmers Market will be Saturday, July 20 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. under the pavilion at the Lexington Municipal Building.

Stop by the Mountain Top Library, 6093 Main Street, Tannersville, on Monday, July 22 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. for an afternoon of Rock n’ Reptiles with a live presentation from Hudson Valley Reptile Rescue at 1 p.m., games, exhibits, crafts and more. 

The 70th Greene County Youth Fair is Thursday, July 25, Friday, July 26, Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Fireworks on Saturday.  Free admission.  The Fair is held in Cairo on Joseph D. Spencer Lane.

Potluck Dinner Church will be held on Friday, July 26 at 6 p.m. at the Ashland Community UMC.  All welcomed.

You don’t want to miss the annual Thunder in the Mountains Car Show that is being held on Saturday, July 27, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the grounds of the Lexington Municipal Building, 3542 Route 42.  There will be breakfast sandwiches, then hot dogs and hamburgers for lunch and beverages for purchase.  Vehicles 1995 or newer will have their own class.  Gift baskets raffle, 50/50 raffle and of course, trophies.  Lexington Fire/Rescue Company will be there with the antique fire truck and a special guest – Sparky the Fire Dog.  Bring the whole family, the kiddos will enjoy the new swing set.  All proceeds benefit the West Kill/Lexington Community Improvement Association.  Call Mary at 518-989-6813.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Bette Knapp on Sunday, July 28 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. under the Lexington Pavilion with a covered dish meal.  

The Thrift Shop, 7889 Main Street, Hunter, is open Tuesdays, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturdays 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

The Greene County Department of Human Services Senior Nutrition Program menu for the week of July 15 – July 19 is as follows:  Monday—Beer battered fish, O’Brien potatoes, spinach, tropical fruit; Tuesday—Chicken Parmesan, spaghetti, Italian mixed vegetables, pears; Wednesday—Salisbury steak, meatballs, California vegetable mix, egg noodles, chocolate chip cookies; Thursday—Roasted turkey with gravy, cranberry sauce, green beans, sweet potato, stuffing, vanilla mouse with fresh blueberries; Friday—Egg salad plate with lettuce and tomatoes, low sodium V8 juice, cold beet salad, Mexicali salad, croissant, fresh fruit.  All persons age 60 and older and spouses are invited to join for lunch.  Suggested donation is $4 per meal.  Congregate dining reservations are required at least a day in advance by noon by calling the appropriate centers.  The number to call for the Senior Service Center at the Jewett Municipal Building, Route 23C, Jewett is 518-263-4392.

Thank you to all law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, dispatchers, healthcare providers, volunteers, veterans and actively serving military, farmers, truck drivers and so many more.

Prayers for all who are dealing with loss, illnesses, healing, difficulties, our country, our military and their families, the world,

Until next week take care, be thankful, be respectful, be safe and please be kind to one another.  Your act of kindness may change someone’s life.

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Sgt. James F. Carty, DSC VFW Post 1545

This Fourth of July parade went well. Our only WWII veteran, Pete O’Brien missed the parade due to having a procedure at Stratton VA Hospital the day before. 

He’s doing well for a 98-year-old veteran. He is such an nice man who during his years as a member held many positions in the post including Post Commander. Get well Mr. O’Brien. 

We only had 5 members of the post who attended the parade and Billy MacGregor (Korean Vet) and Jim McLaren (Vietnam Veteran) were riding in Nick’s 71 Cadillac convertible. 

We had Joe Gallagher (Vietnam Veteran) and Joe D’Acunto (Vietnam Veteran) and me (Vietnam Veteran) marching in front of the Cadillac. I had fun fist bumping the kids on the parade route. They were so much fun. 

I want to thank the Windham Hose Co. #! for organizing the parade as they have done for many years. The attendance at the parade was exceptional as usual. It’s so great to see the patriotism that everyone showed. 

Waving American flags and cheering as we passed by. I even got a few hugs along the way along with “Thank You for Your Service.” 

We are officially in “summer feel” once schools are closed, and the temperature goes up. We have moved on from complaining it’s too cold to complaining about the heat. Mother Nature has it all figured out. 

That leads me into our annual VFW Post 1545 golf outing at Christmans Windham House on Friday August 2nd.  It will be a scramble format register at 9 a.m. and tee off at 10.

Pick up a registration form at the Pro Shop or email me at marcf1545|@gmail.com. 18 holes with cart, lunch at the turn, longest drive and closest to the pin for men and women.

Dinner to follow with an auction and 50/50 drawing. Come and have a nice day at a great facility. Christman’s puts the Country in Country Club. This is for a good cause.

Remember to keep our troops still serving  in your thoughts and prayers. God Bless America. 

Marc Farmilette, Commander VFW Post 1545.

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Sgt. James F. Carty, DSC VFW Post 1545

We just celebrated Independence Day, this past week, and I have few  observations and facts for you to think about.

Also called the Fourth of July, Independence Day marks the historic date in 1776 when the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress. 

The written declaration stated the American colonies were tired of being ruled by Great Britain. The Patriots during that time had a goal and went after it. 

The founding fathers were clear in what direction the 13 original colonies wanted. I often mention what is on my motorcycle helmet, and that is “for those who fought for it, Freedom has a flavor the protected will never know”. 

Today we do not seem to have the same unity that prevailed in those early days of our nation.

How did we get so divided? Is freedom that complicated? I do not understand why. We are all Americans and should unite and understand each other’s opinions. 

Compromise and work towards a solution that works for all. We have politicians today that serve in office for extended amounts of time. 

Forget Democrat or Republican, they seem to put in time and for some reason do not want to agree. We all have the same goal of freedom. 

It seems like the leaders of our country play the blame game. Our news media says one thing, and another says another, and we are left with trying to figure out which news is telling some semblance of truth.

When we served our country in years past, the military made decisions best for our nation during conflicts. Our country was led by leaders with common sense not political motivations with name-calling and bickering. 

I may be idealistic thinking that our leaders, Democrat or Republican, can work without all this conflicting  direction. We should all be doing what is best for our country.

We all want to live in a country that works together for what our founding fathers wanted. I believe our nation will survive this divisive era and get back to working together. 

Let us come together and pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. 

Let us continue to follow this and we will always be Americans. God Bless America and keep our troops in your thoughts and prayers to keep them safe. 

Marc Farmilette, PDC – Commander VFW Post 1545.

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Charlie Dazzles at MATH

By Bradley Towle

TANNERSVILLE — The Maude Adams Theater Hub (MATH) wrapped another successful production this weekend with the closing of Charlie and The Chocolate Factory on Saturday night at The Orpheum Performing Arts Center. The weekend began with a sold-out performance on Friday night and nearly full houses for Saturday’s matinee and evening shows. The play marked the MATH debut of Jake Shipley as Willy Wonka and the young Ezra Kashman as Charlie Bucket. Shipley and Kashman were joined on stage by a host of talented performers hailing from Saugerties, Jewett, Windham, Lexington, Hunter, Phoenicia, Elka Park, Woodstock, and Jefferson, under the direction of a nine-and-a-half-month pregnant Liz Piccoli. The crowds were treated to rousing musical numbers, bratty kids and their enabling parents, hilariously over-the-top new reporters, little squirrels, and, of course, Oompa Loompas, with many in the MATH cast pulling double or triple duty. Throughout the performance, it was clear that everyone was enjoying themselves, both on and off the stage. 

Lauren Kashman (co-owner of Last Chance Cheese and Antiques) confirmed that her son and young star, Ezra, appreciated the experience. “Ezra is super happy with the way the show went,” she writes. “He is sad that it is over as he made so many new friends and enjoyed spending time with them during rehearsals. It was a true bonding experience for him and the rest of the cast and crew. This inclusive and positive environment was all thanks to the producer and director, as well as the other adult performers. He can’t wait for the next MATH production.” Anyone in attendance could see the ten-year-old Kashman was relishing his time on stage just as easily as they could see that the cast and crew were looking out for the young performers, of which there were many. That, in a nutshell, is part of what makes the MATH performances so charming. Aside from the impressive talent of everyone involved, new to the stage or not, one gets the sense that they are watching a performance created by nice and generous people who love being able to be a part of something together. For more information about Maude Adams Theater Hub and its upcoming events, including a summer camp, visit www.maudeadamstheaterhub.org. 

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Prattsville Scoop

By Abby and Gabby

PRATTSVILLE – Thank you to our active military and our veterans. You gave us an opportunity to rejoice and celebrate our freedoms. Heard the 4th of July Parades in Windham and Tannersville were something to be viewed. Windham’s parade was on July 4th and Tannersville’s was on July 6 so you could have attended both.

There will be no Prattsville Scoop column for July 19.

Steve and Liza Birnbaum stopped by with a super supply of snack candies for our hospitalized veterans. Thank you on behalf of our veterans. Lisa’s father was career military so she has an understanding and appreciation of our veterans. Steve continues to move the earth around their home and his improvements are something to be proud of. Their Sundays, after church, is filled with some side trips that make memories for their distant golden ages. Thanks again Lisa and Steve.

Last week we asked you to send some get well cards to Albie Van Etten and we are sorry to let you know that Albie lost his battle with health issues. But rest assured that your cards and notes to Albie will now bring comfort to his family. Our Nancy Olsen is Albie’s sister and we send her our condolences.

The Faro family yard sale on Route 23, Grand Gorge was a treasure hunter’s dream. It was a time for Stan Thorington to pick up an oil lamp similar to the one that sat on his family’s kitchen table when he was young and he also said they had the hand pump to bring water into the kitchen. Stan, by his own admission, said he is in his early 80’s and these are good memories for him. Carl Rappleyea, Bev (our favorite mixologist), and other were looking for that treasure. By mid-morning people were loading up their vans with stacks and boxes and more of their found treasures. You could furnish a whole house with items for sale. Did find out that one of six Faro sisters, Linda?, was at one time a curator of a material or quilt museum in Kentucky. How is that for talent? Have knowledge of Hancock Fabrics of Paducah Kentucky and know they have a top notch selection of fabrics for quilting.

The Trivia Night, Wednesdays, at the Prattsville Tavern has participants with a lot of knowledge and talent taking part in the fun games. This is done under the auspices of Matt and Melinda Peters. Matt is the forager for the facts for the categories and Melissa is the MC. There are some dark horse participants who are wowing the crowd with their knowledge in all categories. Sounds like a good way to spend a Wednesday evening. Plus there are prizes of value.

Bobby Goff stopped by for a visit and to say he is happy with his hay crop. He said although the cutting was a little delayed and the tops of the hay seemed to be somewhat dry, the grass below that was green and lush and continued to grow supplying lots of top notch eating for some thoroughbreds on Long Island. Bobby is a good businessman and he coordinates his cutting with the arrival of trucks from the ultimate buyer so it is cut and ted, bail and load in one organized procedure. He also continues to build “spec” houses for the multitude of people moving into our area and looking to own their own home. Good to talk to you Bobby.

Michala Briggs is again the front person at RSK Farm Stand. She said she is glad to be at work, and that is good to hear, local girl helping local business. Stop by for a chance to get those superb vegetables. It is amazing what a few days of rain will do for the growth of vegetable plants and a goodly\\ supply of the vegetables.

Adam Brainard, son of Elliott and Shelly, was in the area on Sunday. He stops on a regular basis to take of the major lawn mowing for his parents, as in his father. His wife Kelly was home dong some major clean up because they just got a new supply of chickens. Chickens now number 12 and ducts are at 20, plus two dogs and a hairless cat, to name a few. Well, to each his own. Adam and Kelly have a mini farm and the category and number of animals vary from month to month.

Lots of people taking advantage of the water at the Barrier Dam over the 4th of July weekend. Some were even clever enough to bring a pop up canopy to stay out of sun. It was shoulder to shoulder people on Saturday. Enjoy! We can share the heat and water. Stay safe.

If you are interested in sending Shirley Thompson Van Valkenburgh, formerly of West Kill, a card or note, her address is: Sugarmill Manor, Assisted Living & Memory Care, 8985 S. Sun Coast Blvd., Homosass, FL 34446.

Because there will not be a column for The Scoop for July 19, those birthdays and anniversaries are included in this week’s column. Get those cards and best wishes to those celebrating.

Happy Birthday to Lester Chase on July 15. On July 16 it is Happy Birthday to Ann Oliver. On July 17 we wish Chrissy Thorington, Brianna Cross. Sophia Baker and Karen Aurigema a Happy Birthday. Arnold Jaeger and Javin Traver are wished Happy Birthday on Jly 20. On July 21 it is Happy Birthday to John Baker, Kaitlyn Cross, and cousins Lukas Pruyn and Arabella Gurley. Alexis Marsh and Dave Rikard are wished Happy Birhday on July 22. On July 24 it is Happy Birthday to Deb Case Brainerd and Jane Bemis,sister of Laurel Irwin Van Aken. Tony Marsh and Kipp O’Hara are wished Happy Birthday on July 26. Happy Anniversary to Eric and Jennifer Lane on July 16. On July 20 it is Happy Anniversary to Eddie and Lisa Zimmerman. Deb and Gene Brainerd are wished a Happy Anniversary on July 23. Happy Birthday and Happy Anniversary to all.

News? Send to gurleyrv@gmail.com or call 518-299-3219.   

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July at the Pratt Features Zadock Pratt, Ralph Ingersoll, and the Ghost Troops of WWII

PRATTSVILLE—We have an exciting month of events here at the Zadock Pratt Museum and hope to see you at some or all of them! Mark your calendar for Saturday, July 13th, when former Pratt Museum curator Suzanne Walsh will be giving a lecture on the Zadock Pratt, Ralph Ingersoll, and The Ghost Troops of WWII. Join former Pratt Museum Curator Suzanne Walsh as she recounts the recently declassified story about how Zadock Pratt’s great grandson, Ralph Ingersoll was front and center in the smoke and mirrors escapades that saved the lives of thousands of US troops and helped win the war in the operation of the “Ghost Army of World War II”.  “Every army practices deception. If they don’t, they can’t win…” (RTD. USA Gen. Wesley Clark). The “Ghost Army of World War II” tells an almost unbelievable story of not just any kind of historical military deception, but one that was audaciously out-of-the-box, due to a big helping of Ralph Ingersoll, himself. Because of the declassification, we now know in June 1944 the United States Army created a new one-of-a-kind secret unit called the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops, a regiment formed to deceive and confuse German troops in Europe during World War II into not only believing the US military had far more forces in Europe than it actually had, but also into believing a decoy army was the real one while the real units critically operated on the front lines elsewhere. Relying on the talents of inspired actors, writers, artists and fashion designers, this regiment of patriotic “con artists” was a tactical deception unit designed to be flexible and stealthy enough to create battlefield illusions in one strategic location and vanish, only to appear suddenly in an entirely different location, confusing the enemy and manipulating Hitler’s decisions. Their military equipment consisted of the brilliant and creative maneuvering of inflatable rubber tanks, jeeps, artillery positioned in sight of front lines. Their illusions and trickeries were completed with fake radio broadcasts, sonic noises, amplified recordings of US troops quietly shooting the breeze, along with phony messages disseminated in code, all of which theatrical complements contributed to these “Cecil B. DeMille Warriors” helping to win the war--big time! The Ghost Army had camouflage, sonic and radio. The camouflage unit was equipped with inflatable tanks, cannons, jeeps, trucks and airplanes. What began as a spic idea in Ralph Ingersoll’s imagination helped win World War II. In the end, the Ghost Army—and Zadock Pratt’s great-grandson, Ralph Ingersoll—would be credited with saving an estimated 25,000 lives with their creative deceptions. Later in the month, we are celebrating alongside many cultural institutions in the region for Upstate Art Weekend. We will have a reading by local author Jennifer Kabat, a panel discussion on the current exhibition Whose Folk, and the Second Annual Zadock Pratt Lecture: Lafayette’s Visit to Greene County, NY by Greene County Historian Jonathan Palmer. The Zadock Pratt Museum’s mission is to excavate, elevate, and share the rich histories and cultures of Prattsville and the greater tri-county Catskills region. With the life and legacy of Zadock Pratt at our core, it aims to be a critical beacon of local research and education; serve and preserve through community-minded programming, events, and encounters that tell expansive stories; and to contextualize and cultivate ideas that matter. The Zadock Pratt Museum is located at 14540 Main Street, Prattsville, NY 12468. Admission is Free. Refreshments are served. Visit us at zadockprattmuseum.org or on Facebook @ Zadock Pratt Museum for more information. The Museum receives generous support from the Bank of Greene County, Greene County Legislature’s Cultural Initiative Program, Nicholas J. Juried Foundation, and the Town of Prattsville.

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