Along Oriskany and Big Creeks: Geology, History and People

Feeding into the Mohawk River, the Oriskany and Big Creeks have sustained not only the people of Sangerfield, Franklin Springs, Clinton, Kirkland and surrounding towns but also a vibrant ecosystem. Native American Brothertown, Stockbridge and Oneida tribes were the first to thrive along the abundant waters, but European settlers soon followed, establishing towns along the banks. During the Revolutionary War, the region became the site of the Battle of Oriskany. Meanwhile, mills, agriculture, quarries and the arrival of the canal and railroad spurred economic development, and the trout fishing became some of the finest in the nation. Local historian Richard L. Williams reveals the history of the ten communities along the creeks as never presented before, alongside the geology, flora and fauna that have shaped this dynamic environment.