The author began collecting material, "with the view of making it public", in 1837. He endeavored to "present incidents which ahve excaped the knowledge of previous writers, or transactions to which I could add enw facts, generally noticing in their place, however, the most important events published by other authors." To this end, he interviewed "many hoary-headed persons of intelligence", seeking "individuals sustaining a character of conscientious regard for the truth." This highly readable and informative work covers the typical general history material, with much information on interaction with the Indians and the Revolutionary War, and many esoteric items as well. The following is a brief sampling of the contents: Origin and signification of Schoharie, Poverty of Schoharie Germans, Ancient apple trees, Groat family settle in the Mohawk Valley, Strength of the Vrooman family, Burning of the Gaspee, Indian treaty in Schoharie, A female spy and Maj. Tallmadge, Murder of Durham and his wife, An Indian attempts to surprise a sentinel at the Upper Schoharie Fort. A new every-name index has been added to aid researchers in using this book.