sentences:  Historians and archeologists have learned more about the continuing relations between the Esopus, the original inhabitants of the area, and the Huguenots.Some results of research can be found at the HHS site at "Relations between the Huguenots of New Paltz, NY and the Esopus Indians .The "Before Hudson" exhibit, currently on view at the DuBois Fort Visitor Center, shows some of the highlights of archaeological excavation in our area with artifacts dating back 6,000-8,000 years ago.The historical record of slavery in New Paltz begins in 1674, three years before its founding, when Louis DuBois purchased two African slaves at a public auction held in Kingston (then called Esopus).