St. John's in the Wilderness, New York facts for kids

St. John's in the Wilderness was a small community, or "settlement," located about one mile from a place called Sandyfield. It was part of the town of Haverstraw in Rockland County, New York, United States. Even though it's not a bustling place today, it has an interesting history.

What Was St. John's in the Wilderness?

St. John's in the Wilderness was once a lively and growing community. It started as a "mission," which is like a special project or a place set up to help people, often by a religious group. This mission was created in 1880. It became a small settlement where people lived and worked.

Where Was This Settlement Located?

This unique place was found in Rockland County, New York. It was close to the town of Haverstraw. One of the most interesting things about St. John's in the Wilderness is its location. It is the only piece of land that is privately owned inside the huge Harriman State Park. This means that while everything else around it is part of the park, this specific spot belongs to someone else.

The Beginning of St. John's

The mission of St. John's in the Wilderness was started in the year 1880. At that time, it was a very active and successful place. Missions like this often provided services to people living in rural areas. They might have offered education, healthcare, or a place for people to gather. Over time, a small community grew around the mission.

Why is it Special Today?

Today, St. John's in the Wilderness is no longer a busy settlement. However, its history as a thriving mission in the late 1800s makes it a notable place. Its unique status as the only private land within Harriman State Park also makes it stand out. It's a reminder of how communities grew and changed in New York State many years ago.