On February 22, 2020 the St. Lawrence County Deputy Association made a generous donation to the campaign to refurbish the headstones and placement of a plaque for Sheriff York and his wife Lavinia. Sheriff York was the county sheriff during the battle of Ogdensburg, in 1813. He commanded an artillery piece against the British and Canadian attackers during the battle. He was taken prisoner and was released when his wife, Lavinia went to the authorities in Prescott, Ontario and demanded him returned.
Every year, during the Battle of Ogdensburg Weekend, there is a wreath laying ceremony at Sheriff York’s grave. The years have taken a toll on the grave site in Ogdensburg Cemetery.
The drive to fund the refurbishment has been spearheaded by the Ogdensburg Historical Commission, Forsyth’s Rifles and the Fort La Presentation Association. Additional funds have been donated by both the Canadian and American re-enactors who recently took part in the Battle of Ogdensburg event.
Those who wish to contribute to this project can make checks payable to the Ogdensburg Comptroller, with “York Graves “in the memo section, and sent to City of Ogdensburg Comptroller, 330 Ford St., Ogdensburg, NY 13669. Wetherbee and Whalen are working on a restoration plan and schedule.
fort1749.org 