In 1778, the East Branch of the Delaware River valley's settlers were driven off by the American Indians. In June 1778, a combined force of Tories and Indians led by Joseph Brant raided the valley, including the Margaretville area. On August 26, 1778, a general evacuation was ordered, assisted by guard from Great Shandaken. Before the settlers were driven from their homes, they were given a timely and friendly warning by an Indian named Tunis and returned to the Hudson Valley. The settlers returned after the American Revolutionary War.