The Torture Tree of Cuylerville, NY: A Haunting Landmark of History
Tucked away in the quiet hamlet of Cuylerville, New York, lies a somber piece of history known as the Torture Tree. This ancient tree stands as a powerful reminder of the darker chapters of America’s past, specifically, a brutal event during the Revolutionary War that left an indelible mark on the region.
The Legend of the Torture Tree
The Torture Tree is associated with the story of Lieutenant Thomas Boyd and Sergeant Michael Parker, two American soldiers who were captured, tortured, and killed by Seneca warriors allied with the British during the Sullivan-Clinton Campaign of 1779. This campaign was a major military operation ordered by George Washington to weaken the Iroquois Confederacy, which had sided with the British.
Boyd and Parker were part of a scouting party sent ahead of the main American forces. They were ambushed near Cuylerville, captured, and brought before a council of Iroquois and British leaders. After interrogation, they were subjected to gruesome torture—stories say Boyd’s fingernails were pulled out, his tongue was cut out, and eventually, both men were executed. The tree near where this took place became known locally as the “Torture Tree.”
A Solemn Memorial
Today, a historical marker and plaque stand near the tree’s location, commemorating Boyd and Parker’s sacrifice. The tree itself—though long since dead—is remembered in oral histories and historical documents. This chilling landmark is part of a broader network of Revolutionary War sites in the region, including the Boyd & Parker Memorial Park, which offers visitors a chance to reflect on the sacrifices made in the struggle for American independence.
Visiting the Site
Located off Route 20A in Cuylerville, this site is open to visitors who want to learn about its lesser-known history. It is a quiet place that tourists often overlook, but those who do stop by find themselves profoundly moved by the significance of the events that took place there.
If you’re interested in Revolutionary War history or simply want to explore New York’s lesser-known landmarks, the Torture Tree site is a sobering but important stop. It reminds us that the freedoms we enjoy today were hard-won, and sometimes came at great personal cost.
Getting To The Torture Tree
Address: Boyd-Parker Memorial Park. 3064 Cuylerville Road (Route 20A). Leicester, NY