The winter of 1779 – A memorable season
From History of Long Island City, New York, J. S. Kelsey, 1896:
>The winter of 1779 was one of almost unparalleled severity. Snow began to fall November 10 and continued more or less daily till the following March. “In the woods it lay four feet upon a level,” says a certain chronicler. A fuel famine was abroad. All over New York Island trees of every sort were cut down, gardens, court yards, and avenues, as well as lanes and forests, were depleted. Apple, peach, plum, cherry and pear trees fell before the woodman. The cold was extreme. The bay and harbor of New York was solid as terra firma. Likewise the East River and Long Island Sound nearly to New Haven.
Sorry, no pics, hope that doesn't break this sub's guidelines. Just found this fascinating.