History - Andes, New York

The Town of Andes is steeped in history. One of the area's most infamous events occurred in the Summer of 1845 during the Anti-Rent War of New York. Sheriff Osman Steele, accompanied by his deputies, arrived at the Moses Earle farm to collect overdue rents. Earle's neighbors, knowing of the Sheriffs intentions, were ready to make a stand. Disguised as Indians, the protestors confronted Steele, shots were fired and Osman Steele fell dead. Over 100 men were arrested and two were sentenced to death.

This incident brought to national attention the plight of New York's poor tenant farmers. Happily, the "Calico Indians" were set free and in 1847 the system of feudal tenures was abolished. (The original painted mural of the Anti-Rent War (pictured above) appears on the wall of Delhi's Post Office.) The original site can be reached by car, driving out Lower Main Street and is marked by a an historic register sign.

Hunting Tavern Museum
The famous Hunting Tavern was built in about 1800 by Ezra Benedict. It is one of the oldest structures in Andes. During the Anti-Rent Wars of the 1840’s, Ephraim Hunting owned and operated the tavern. It was here that Delaware County Undersheriff, Osman Steele, had his last drink and proclaimed the famous words, “Lead cannot penetrate Steele”, just before he was fatally shot at the Moses Earle Tax Sale on August 7, 1845.

The Hunting Tavern has been beautifully restored and is open for tours on Saturdays beginning with Memorial Day Weekend in May through mid-October.