The Mystery of the Underhill Medal

A reader named Mike S. discovered a silver medal buried in his grandfather's garden in Shirley, New York approximately 25 years prior. The medal, awarded in 1847 to R.T. Underhill, commemorated his cultivation of Isabella and Catawba grapes on Croton Point. Mike's grandfather found the artifact while tilling his garden and passed it along as a "lucky charm," sparking questions about its origins and journey to Long Island.

Richard T. Underhill: The Grape King

Richard T. Underhill established the first commercial winery in the United States on Croton Point. He initially purchased European grape varieties from Andre Parmentier, a Belgian nurseryman in Brooklyn. When European varieties failed to thrive in New York's climate, Underhill shifted focus to American grape varieties, particularly Catawba and Isabella grapes.

Beginning in 1827, Underhill's vineyard expanded to 75 acres, becoming "the first large vineyard in the country." His grapes were sold in New York City markets, establishing his reputation as the region's grape authority.

The American Institute

Founded February 19, 1828, the American Institute promoted "domestic industry in this State, and the United States, in Agriculture, Commerce, Manufacturing and the Arts." The organization held annual fairs awarding prizes to outstanding contributors. The 1847 fair at Castle Garden exhibited products from 2,194 contributors with over 20,000 articles displayed.

Underhill and his brother William A. won multiple awards for their grapes, plums, and quinces throughout their involvement with the Institute.

Robert Lovett, Medal Designer

Robert Lovett Sr. (1796-1874) was a renowned engraver who designed the Underhill medal. Born in New York, he apprenticed under master seal engraver Thomas Brown before establishing his Philadelphia business in 1816. By 1824, he relocated to New York City, maintaining his shop at 249 Broadway until his death.

Lovett also designed the medal commemorating the Old Croton Aqueduct's opening on October 14, 1842.

The Unsolved Mystery

Despite extensive research, the article's authors cannot definitively explain how the medal traveled from Croton Point to Long Island. Speculation suggests possible connections through the Underhill family's historical presence in areas including Flushing, Southold, Setauket, and Oyster Bay.