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Come See the Return of Fort Delaware's Stocks

The original stocks (pillory) at Fort Delaware in Narrowsburg

Narrowsburg, NY – Strange as it may sound, a replica of a device once used as a form of public humiliation and punishment was for many decades one of the more popular photo spots at Sullivan County’s Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History. And this weekend, it will return.

Volunteers will be sawing and hammering a new version of the Fort’s famous (or infamous) stocks – more formally known as a pillory – this Saturday, May 25 and Sunday, May 26, when the Fort reopens to the public for the summer season.

Such hinged wooden structures were long employed to punish and humiliate criminals, or anyone local authorities wished, locking their arms and neck in an uncomfortable position where they would be jeered at and spat upon. These devices disappeared from use in the 19th century, but the Fort re-creates life in the 17th century, so a pillory is accurate to the time period.

The original pillory is long gone, but a nostalgic public’s demand for the return of their favorite photo op led volunteers to begin reconstruction this weekend. Of course, the Fort’s version will not lock, and rather than being a spot for humiliation, it will welcome those willing to have their picture taken in a spirit of family fun and silliness.

Located along Route 97, the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway, in Narrowsburg, Fort Delaware is an authentic depiction of the life of the Delaware Company Pioneers who settled in the Upper Delaware Valley in 1754. A tour of the multi-level colonial structure includes demonstrations of early settlers’ lifestyles and craft-making. A gift shop and picnicking facility are located on the grounds. The Fort is owned, operated and maintained by Sullivan County through its Department of Parks, Recreation and Beautification.

From Memorial Day weekend through all of June, the Fort will be open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Starting July 1, the Fort will be open for visits and tours from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Labor Day.  (Last tours are given at 4 p.m.)

Adult tickets are $7 apiece, while kids under 5 are free (must be accompanied by an adult). Children 5-14 are $4 apiece, and seniors aged 62 and over are $5 apiece. A $20 Family Pass admits up to two adults and three children, while veterans who present a valid ID issued through the County’s FAVOR Program are admitted free. Special rates available for camps, student groups and adult groups.

For more info, visit www.sullivanny.us/Departments/ParksRecreation/FortDelaware or call 845-252-6660.