Cayuga County lost one of its greatest historians on July 8, 2010. Hallie Sweeting, a long time historian at Sterling, NY passed away at her home at age 81. She often served as a mother figure for many historians in our County, with her gentle words of encouragement.
Hallie was an avid researcher and was as much at home on her farm with her many animals as she was searching local history. She loved a good mystery and touched the lives of so many. With a quip sense of humor, a visit with Hallie always involved laughter.
For those that have not met Hallie, I found a wonderful biography of her on the Morgan Horse Association.
Biography of Hallie Sweeting
Hallie was a member of many heritage groups, including the Daughters of the American Revolution as well as the Daughters of 1812, the latter being her favorite. She enjoyed researching civil war soldiers as well as those that belonged to the Hudson Post GAR in Fair Haven, NY. She recently contacted me when she discovered my ancestor George Kilmer was once a member at this post. He had transferred to the Lockwood Post GAR at Port Byron.
It was this constant exchange of history that drew people to Hallie. I would not be a historian today if it wasn't for her. I first met Hallie when searching for a branch of my own family that were early residents of Sterling. That contact would lead to a 20 year friendship with a historian that loved the hunt as much as I did.
One thing I learned from her was that history of one municipality often affects the history of another with the interaction of people and their descendants. Hallie authored many books on local history.
Her legacy will include the gift of history that she left behind for all of us to enjoy. The depth and scope of her historical work is nothing less than inspiring. With my deepest sympathies to her family, Hallie Sweeting will be truly missed.
