News & Events
Toast 250! Tavern Nights
Celebrate the 250th anniversary of these United States with friends and neighbors at Toast 250! Tavern Nights. Be transported to tavern life during the Revolution with historic guests, tavern games, music, libations and more!
Taverns were at the heart of social and political life in the 18th century—serving as community hubs where locals and travelers gathered to enjoy refreshments, exchange news, and share revolutionary ideas. In that same spirit, and in support of Revolutionary Westchester 250’s mission to build awareness and appreciation of Westchester County’s Revolutionary War–era history, we are excited to launch Toast 250! Tavern Nights throughout Westchester County in 2026.
Imagine entering your favorite tavern and being greeted by a fiddler or fifer dressed in their finest period attire. You sidle up to the bar to share a traditional brew with Colonel John Glover, offering a few rousing toasts to General George Washington. Then you test your skills at classic tavern games—cards, dancing limberjacks, or shut the box—while sharing a savory meat pie (and perhaps a whispered conspiracy) with Mrs. Benedict Arnold and Major John André…if they dare to show up!
Next, put your Revolutionary War knowledge to the test by challenging friends and fellow tavern teams in a customized Westchester Edition Revolutionary War Trivia game. Win bragging rights—and prizes we promise aren’t worth a Continental dollar.
All the while, foot-stomping traditional tavern tunes fill the room.
Feel free to dress the part—a drawstring skirt and mob cap, a tricorn hat and hunting shirt—or any outfit that puts you in the spirit of revolutionary fun! And because history is for everyone, a Tavern Night can also be planned as a Tavern Day, with authentic activities for all ages.Let’s gather to learn, laugh, celebrate—and raise a toast to commemorate the 250th!
Attend a Toast 250! Tavern Night or consider hosting one! For details click here.
Announcing RW250’s Roundtable Book Group Selection
For this holiday season we suggest giving a book to yourself, or others on your list, and get started reading Richard Brookhiser’s Glorious Lessons, John Trumbull, Painter of the American Revolution, the next RW250 Roundtable Book Group. Discussion to be held in February 2026.
Glorious Lessons brings art and history together and includes full color plates of paintings by John Trumbull. Copies are also available to borrow through the Westchester Library System.
This free, Zoom-only event will be held February 22 at 4 p.m.
The Zoom link will be provided in our February newsletter and also on RW250 social media, or click here to register in advance: https://docs.google.com/.../1FAIpQLSeCVV2Tn92h1p.../viewform
A Revolutionary Loyalist
The Surprising Story of Peggy Shippen Arnold
A presentation by RW250 V.P. Char Weigel, based on her primary source research on the life of Benedict Arnold’s wife.
Margaret Arnold, perhaps better known by her childhood name Peggy Shippen, has been portrayed through history as either a total innocent or the scheming mastermind behind Benedict Arnold’s treason. Based entirely on primary sources, Char Weigel brings to life this complex, nuanced woman and the choices she made in her youth. The true story of her involvement is more fascinating than the fiction as is the path that her life took after the discovery of her husband’s plot and his defection. Come ready with your questions!
Weigel will also share some remarks on local loyalist Sarah Bates, who lived in what is today the Odell Rochambeau House until her family was forced to flee to British-controlled New York City.
Char Weigel frequently publishes and presents on new research on Benedict Arnold’s treason and Revolutionary War history in the lower Hudson Valley. She is on the board of the Friends of the Odell Rochambeau Museum and Vice President of Special Projects for Revolutionary Westchester 250.
Free, but registration required.
REGISTER HERE: https://greenburghlibrary.libcal.com/event/15626550
Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at 7 p.m.
Greenburgh Public Library, 300 Tarrytown Road, Elmsford NY
Enlist in the Continental Army!
SAVE THE DATES & ENLIST
SATURDAY/SUNDAY - 27 & 28 SEPTEMBER, 2025
REV FEST 250 is taking over Croton Point Park. Immerse yourself in the people, passion, and power that shaped a nation. Experience military demonstrations, cavalry maneuvers, cannon firing, period craft demonstrations and working oxen. Engage with performances and hear live music on two outdoor stages.
And now you can also get in on the action by ENLISTING IN THE CONTINENTAL ARMY!
Recruits will wear military garb, set up encampments and tents, assemble, march and parade under the direction of the commanding officer, interact with civilian visitors, and become immersed in the living history of an 18th century revolutionary soldier. Recruits can opt to enlist for one day or for both days. RECRUITS ARE ORDERED TO HAVE AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE!
CLICK HERE to fill out the ENLISTMENT FORM. Living History Education Foundation, Inc. will supply gear, garb, and directions to each new recruit. Once your form is received LHEF will be in touch to confirm your enlistment and provide further details. Participation in this event is free (a deposit is required for use of the garb and gear and will be refunded when the items are returned to LHEF). Supplies are limited so sign up now.
Questions: email livinghistory@optonline.net
HUZZAH!
Join us for REV FEST 250!
September 27 & 28, 2025
11:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m. each day
Croton Point Park
1 Croton Point Ave.
Croton-on-Hudson, NY 10520
This event is free!
Head to the Hudson to commemorate the 250th Anniversary of the Revolution in Westchester! On Saturday, Sep. 27 and Sunday, Sep. 28, 2025, bring the family for live battle re-enactments, musical performances and historical storytelling on two stages, period-inspired demonstrations, crafts, food and travel back in time to a Westchester that was alight with patriots, loyalists and those caught in between. Free to the public.
Come to the RW250 tent both days to “Meet the Women of Revolutionary Westchester” and hear how women—enslaved and free, wealthy and tenant farmers—experienced the eight brutal years of war.
Click below for the full schedule, list of exhibitors, directions, FAQs and more.
Meet the Women of Revolutionary Westchester: A Living History Family Day
Saturday, June 28, 2025
12:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Free for everyone
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
29 Warburton Ave, Yonkers, NY, 10701
During the Revolutionary War, Westchester County was known as “The Neutral Zone,” a war-torn area where ordinary people struggled to get by while armies, militias, and vigilantes clashed in their backyards. The war was especially hard for women on both sides of the conflict. Join us for this special outdoor living history family day. Interact with the women of revolutionary Westchester, from those doing ordinary tasks like spinning, weaving and cooking, to camp followers caring for the troops with herbal medicines, to women who joined the military in disguise. In the outdoor tent experience the performances of Peggy Shippen who was married to traitor Benedict Arnold, wealthy loyalist Mary Philipse, an enslaved and then manumitted woman named Liss, and Phoebe Ward who was a mother caught between two armies. History At Play’s award-winning performance, A Revolution of her Own! explores the life of Continental soldier Deborah Sampson.
Learn more from area cultural and heritage organizations highlighting the histories of diverse women with connections to revolutionary Westchester County.
Enjoy live period music, dancing, 18th century hands-on crafting and demonstrations, period games, and more as you mingle and converse with the costumed performers.
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
In partnership with Revolutionary Westchester 250. Sponsored by the Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area and Westchester County Government.
PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
Performances will take place under the big tent on the front lawn. Schedule subject to change.
12:00 PM – Event Opens: live music, opening remarks
12:30 PM – Meet Mary Philipse Morris
1:00 PM – Meet Deborah Sampson – “A Revolution of Her Own!”
2:00 PM – Live Music
2:30 PM – Meet Liss & Robert Townsend
3:00 PM – Meet Peggy Shippen
3:30 PM – Meet Phebe Ward
4:00 PM – Live Music
5:00 PM – Program closes
Watch Spies of the Lower Hudson on Youtube
On May 20, Char Weigel, RW250 V.P. for Special Projects, and Dave Welker, historian with the U.S. government who specializes in wartime intelligence, presented "Undercover and Unknown—Arnold, André and the Spies of the Lower Hudson," to over 560 attendees as part of the New York State Archives Magazine Online Speaker Series. The presentation explored the hidden world of espionage during the American Revolution, focusing on how the infamous treason of Benedict Arnold and the daring actions of British Major John André shaped American history, as well as the pivotal role spies played in the lower Hudson Valley.
Click this link to watch the presentation on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KEjayIxS9vs&t=1s
Weigel presented original research about the double agents Benedict Arnold revealed in the papers he gave to John André on September 22, 1780. You can read an article on her research that was published in the Fall 2024 edition of the New York Archives Magazine here: https://tinyurl.com/4ex4x8pk
EXCITING NEWS!
Westchester County Tourism & Film has been awarded a $250,000 grant through Empire State Development's Market New York program to support two immersive, two-day events in 2025 and 2026 at select Westchester County parks—showcasing the pivotal roles of Westchester County, the Hudson Valley, and New York State in the Revolutionary War. The funding will also enable the creation of dynamic website content to educate visitors about Westchester's history and heritage.
The events and online content will be organized in coordination with Westchester County's key partners, including Revolutionary Westchester 250 and local historical organizations.
In September 2025 a two-day festival, an expanded version of our 2024 Revolution on the Hudson event, will be held at Croton Point Park.
In October 2026 a two-day 250th anniversary event with the reenactment of the Battle of White Plains will take place at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
RW250 President Constance Kehoe said: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Westchester County Tourism & Film on programs that bring the history of the American Revolution to life in Westchester. This grant will allow us to greatly expand our current initiatives and create lifelong memories of the 250th Commemoration for residents and visitors. We look forward to a continued partnership highlighting our region's rich and diverse heritage.”
Read the full press release here.
The French Are Coming: Why, When, How, Where?
Join us for The French Are Coming: Why, When, How, Where? presented by Dr. Iris de Rode, hosted by Revolutionary North Salem 250.
“Dr. de Rode, a member of the RW250 Advisory Committee, brings a unique perspective to the Revolutionary War in Westchester County,” said RW250 president Constance Kehoe. “Our first allies, the French, spent time in North Salem, making it so appropriate to have Dr. de Rode in this community!”
Friday, March 21 at 6:30 p.m. Arrive at 6:00 pm to enjoy a glass of French wine before the presentation.
North Salem Community Center, 3 Owens Road, Croton Falls, NY 10519.
Registration is required for this free event; North Salem residency is not required. Register online here. If you have trouble registering online please email Recreation@northsalemny.gov
Spotlight on Westchester’s Revolutionary Women
Spotlight on Westchester’s Revolutionary Women, presented by RW250, sponsored by the Village of Port Chester. RW250’s president Constance Kehoe and VP for Special Projects Char Weigel share little-known stories of several Westchester women who worked and fought on both sides during the War for Independence, including Peggy Shippen Arnold, portrayed by Weigel. Learn what RW250 does and how your community can get involved. For a colonial lunch that precedes the program, an RSVP to Maryann Nielsen is required. Call (914) 939-4975 by March 14.
Thursday, March 20 at 1:00 p.m.
Port Chester Village Hall, 222 Grace Church Street (REAR Building), Port Chester, NY 10573.
This event is free.
Announcing our January 2025 Book Group selection
Our January 2025 selection is The Great New York Fire of 1776: A Lost Story of the American Revolution by Benjamin L. Carp.
The discussion will take place on Sunday, January 12 at 4 p.m. on Zoom.
To register click here.
The Institute for Thomas Paine Studies (ITPS) at Iona University is once again joining RW250 as a cosponsor. Dr. Michael Crowder, former ITPS public historian and currently Assistant Professor at Texas State University, will moderate the discussion.
Benjamin L. Carp’s book explores the mysterious origins of the Great Fire of 1776 and the political forces that drove a rebellious American army to burn down cities on their own soil rather than succumb to British capture. Uncover the lesser-known truths about the American pursuit of happiness.
“The Great New York Fire of 1776 makes us rethink many of our assumptions about the American Revolution and New York City’s role in it. Carp presents the reader with a violent, confused account of the Revolutionary War. Instead of virtuous revolutionary leaders, we find rebels who ‘skulked and deceived, burned and massacred, unleashed campaigns of terror, and denigrated people as less worthy of citizenship,’ among other sins. It is not a story that lends itself to nationalistic pride or heroic memorialization. It is, however, one that includes many more voices from a much more varied and diverse set of people than most influential histories of the Revolution present, and it is one that has a distinctive resonance with the era of confusion and political violence in which many Americans now find ourselves.”
— The Gotham Center for New York City History
Get your copy from a local library or bookseller and plan to join us on January 12.
Treason of the Blackest Dye Exhibit Closing Day
Free Tickets & Special Programs!
Thousands of people and hundreds of school children have already seen Treason of the Blackest Dye—The True Story of André, Arnold and Three Honest Militiamen. The exhibit will close on Wednesday, December 11 with a special guest and program.
In addition to seeing the papers and artifacts related to the Tarrytown capture of British spy Major John André that revealed Benedict Arnold’s treason, you will be joined by Benedict Arnold himself, ready to answer your burning questions about this Revolutionary War turning point!
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.: View exhibit and interact with Benedict Arnold
2 p.m. to 3 p.m.: Special interactive program where you can engage with exhibit artifacts and papers in an interactive, educator-guided program. Probe into Arnold’s treason, the fate of the American double agents he exposed, and the unfolding of André’s capture by militiamen John Paulding, Isaac Van Wart and David Williams. Register for the 2 p.m. ticket slot to participate in this program!
Free tickets are available here. Please note!
Click the “Register Now” button and navigate to December 11 on the calendar.
Click on a time to register. Benedict Arnold will be at the exhibit all day.
If you want to participate in the special one-hour interactive program, register for the 2 p.m. time period.
Questions? Email 1780capture@gmail.com.
Revolution on the Hudson!
Revolution on the Hudson! Living History Experience
Saturday, November 9, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rain or shine
Croton Point Park
FREE & FUN FOR ALL AGES
A living history day where the American Revolution and the story of Teller’s Point (now Croton Point Park) come to life!
Over 100 historic reenactors plus 18th-century craftspeople, musicians, farm animals, food trucks & more!
Explore British & Continental military camps, meet generals, soldiers, traitors, spies and revolutionary women!
Watch weavers, cooks, medics and demonstrations of blacksmithing and Lenape skills.
Participate in colonial games, colonial dancing, and try your hand at Revolutionary War spycraft.
See cannon and musket firings, horse drills, oxen pulls, colonial-era music performances, and a grand finale parade!
See displays from local historic sites and heritage organizations.
All on the beautiful Hudson River!
Free parking in the park or use the free shuttle from the Croton-Harmon Metro North Station.
We especially welcome veterans to this event honoring our original veterans.
Produced by Revolutionary Westchester 250 with the support of Westchester County; Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area; Village of Croton-on-Hudson; and Croton Historical Society.
Reflections on Heroes and Highwaymen: A Local Perspective on the Capture of Major André
This video of Dr. Sara Mascia’s 2024 Pocantico Fall Forum lecture provides a local perspective on Major John André’s remarkable capture in Tarrytown during the American Revolution and why the spy’s fame eclipsed the reputation of his captors. Using historical images of the capture and the local militiamen responsible, Dr. Mascia reflects on why local militiamen John Paulding, David Williams, and Isaac Van Wart—who captured André as he fled toward New York City—have often been overlooked, diminished, or vilified. She also explores the rise of André’s persona in popular culture, as well as the historical importance and consequences of his capture.
Dr. Sara F. Mascia completed her Ph.D. in historical archaeology with a secondary area of historic preservation from Boston University. She is vice president of the cultural resource management firm Historical Perspectives Inc. and an assistant professor at SUNY Westchester Community College. She is also the executive director of The Historical Society, Inc. Serving Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown, the village historian of Tarrytown, and the author of numerous publications and presentations.
Special Event: Treason of the Blackest Dye Exhibition
Revolutionary Westchester 250 is thrilled to announce the September 25, 2024 opening of a very special free exhibit that highlights one of the most remarkable chapters in the Revolutionary War—one that played out right here in Westchester County. Intrigue, betrayal, and chance circumstances will come to life for visitors to Treason of the Blackest Dye, the True Story of Arnold, André, and the Three Honest Militiamen. If the events that unfolded here in 1780 had turned out differently, America’s war for Independence may well have been lost!
Curated and produced by Revolutionary Westchester 250 (RW250) and hosted by The Pocantico Center of the Rockefeller Brothers Fund, the exhibit highlights Benedict Arnold’s treasonous plans and the remarkable capture of the British spy, Major André. The exhibit runs from September 25 to December 11, 2024 and brings together rarely seen and valuable original documents and artifacts as well as costumes from the popular AMC television series Turn: Washington’s Spies. Following opening day, high quality facsimiles stand in for the some of the documents and artifacts. Several related events, including an immersive experience using AI-generated imagery and 360-degree content, will also take place in September.
It was very much a “treason of the blackest dye” that began to unfold on September 22, 1780. Meeting secretly, General Benedict Arnold turned over plans for West Point to British spy Major John André. With the plans, which André concealed in his boots, the British might have captured West Point and turned the tide of the war. Instead, André was captured in Tarrytown by three local militiamen and Arnold’s plot was uncovered. André would be executed as a spy days later, while Arnold made a narrow escape and defected to the British.
Benedict Arnold's pass for John André under the name "John Anderson."
Now, nearly 250 years later, the original “boot papers” return to Tarrytown for the very first time. Loaned by the New York State Archives, the rare papers will be on view during the exhibit’s opening day, and then replaced with exact facsimiles for the duration of the show.
Additional items on view will include the original Fidelity Medal awarded by a grateful Congress to one of the militiamen, Issac Van Wart, on loan from the New York State Museum; an original Revolutionary War orderly book, loaned by the U.S. Military Academy Library, with “Treason of the Blackest Dye” written boldly across its pages on the day General Nathanael Greene received news of Arnold’s treason; the buttons from the Hessian coat local militiaman John Paulding was wearing at the time of the capture, loaned by The Historical Society serving Sleepy Hollow & Tarrytown; and other items loaned by private collectors. Costumes, original cast photos and a script from the AMC Series Turn: Washington’s Spies will highlight the ongoing interest in this event in the popular imagination. (The Fidelity Medal and Orderly book will also be replaced with facsimiles after opening day.)
Information panels created by RW250 using primary sources and rarely seen visual material will tell the story of this remarkable event and the key players. In addition to the public viewing, RW250 is offering free docent-led field trips open to any Westchester school. The field trips incorporate the New York State Social Studies Framework for grade 7 (History of the United States and New York State) and grade 11 (United States History and Government) and allow students to engage with the wealth of primary sources included in the exhibit. To learn more about scheduling a field trip, contact 1780capture@gmail.com.
With financial support from Westchester County, RW250 has created a free informational brochure about the Arnold/André plot, based on the exhibit panels. The brochure will be available at The Pocantico Center exhibit and also distributed to the public at historic sites and other locations.
Treason of the Blackest Dye Exhibit
September 25 to December 11, 2024
The Pocantico Center, 200 Lake Road, Tarrytown N.Y.
The exhibit is free, but advance timed-ticket reservations are required.
To reserve one of the limited number of tickets click here. Tickets issued on a first-come basis. Some original documents will be replaced with facsimiles after Sept. 25.
Fall Forum Lecture and Reception
At this year’s Pocantico Fall Forum, Sara Mascia, Ph.D., will present Reflections on Heroes and Highwaymen: A Local Perspective on the Capture of Major André. The 7:00 p.m. lecture will be preceded by a reception with special access to the exhibit.
September 25, 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
The Pocantico Center, 200 Lake Road, Tarrytown N.Y.
Free tickets will be offered beginning September 3 here.
ADDITIONAL EVENTS
Rendezvous with Treason: The André/Arnold Conspiracy
In partnership with RW250, Rockefeller State Park Preserve is excited to announce a special event in honor of this pivotal moment in our nation’s history. In a dramatic performance, Sean Grady and Gary Petagine will bring to life two of the most intriguing characters in the American Revolution—Major John André and General Benedict Arnold during their fateful meeting in Haverstraw, New York in September of 1780. The events following their collusion played out across Putnam, Westchester, Orange, and Rockland Counties. The 50-minute production allows these infamous men an opportunity to tell their side of the story and the motivations behind the plot that could have ended the cause for independence. A Q&A will follow the performance.
This special Rockefeller State Park Preserve program will take place at the Pocantico Hills Fire Department, 531 Bedford Rd., Tarrytown, NY 10591. The building is wheelchair accessible. The event is free but advance registration is required.
Sunday, September 8, 2:00 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. To register click here.
The Real Story: André, Arnold and Treason of the Blackest Dye
On September 23, 1780, Tarrytown was the site of an event that likely altered the outcome of the Revolutionary War: the capture of British spy Major John André and discovery of American General Benedict Arnold’s treason. Almost immediately, fabrications and fake news sprang up, myths that persist in today’s popular imagination.
Char Weigel, Vice President for Special Projects for Revolutionary Westchester 250, will correct the record with the real story of the capture by three honest Westchester militiamen and introduce new research on Arnold’s disclosure of two Westchester-based double agents.
This free presentation will be given online twice during September:
Wednesday, September 11, 7:00 p.m. for Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site. This program is sponsored by the Friends of Philipse Manor Hall and Tompkins Bank. Tickets for this virtual program are free, but registration is required. To register click here.
Tuesday, September 17, 7:00 p.m. for Warner Library in Tarrytown. Tickets for this virtual program are free, but registration is required. To register click here.
Revolutionary Westchester: The Story of Benedict Arnold, John André, and Three Honest Militia Men
In conjunction with the exhibit, the White Plains Public Library has created an immersive experience using AI-generated imagery and 360-degree content for the library’s new panoramic “Igloo” video room, funded by the Library Foundation and Optimum. Revolutionary Westchester: The Story of Benedict Arnold, John André and Three Honest Militiamen tells the story of Benedict Arnold’s treason, André’s role as General Clinton’s top spymaster engaged in negotiations with Arnold, André’s capture, Arnold’s escape behind British lines, and André’s trial and execution as a spy.
Thursday, September 26, 5:00 p.m. to 5:45 p.m., with additional dates below. Seating is very limited. To register click here. White Plains Public Library, 100 Martine Avenue, White Plains, N.Y.
Additional dates: October 3, October 15, and October 24.
RW250 Highlights Contributions of Black Soldiers,Indigenous Soldiers and Women in the Revolutionary War
Author Shirley L. Green, Ph.D.
Judith Kalaora portraying Deborah Sampson.
As the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States approaches, there is no better time than Black History Month (February 2024) and Women’s History Month (March 2024) to highlight the under told stories of the black soldiers, indigenous soldiers and women who fought for and created this country. The local non-profit organization Revolutionary Westchester 250 (RW250) is working to share a more complete picture of Westchester County’s crucial role in the war that includes the diversity of those involved in the war effort.
RW250 President Constance Kehoe commented, “There was much broader participation in the American Revolution than many realize. Women played an essential role in local encampments, caring for soldiers and sometimes themselves fighting. Free black men picked up their muskets to enlist as did enslaved men who were promised freedom at the end of the war.” She continued, “Wappinger Sachem Daniel Nimham, Captain in the American Army, along with his son and nearly every adult Wappinger male gave their lives fighting for America in what was then Westchester County. It is important that our county’s commemoration be an inclusive depiction of local sacrifice and success.”
RW250 is sponsoring a presentation in Ossining by author Shirley L. Green, Ph.D. as part of the Bethany Arts Community (BAC) Black History and Culture Exhibit: Black Presence. Profound Influence. The exhibit, running February 2 through March 8, will include the role of black soldiers in the Revolutionary War.
Joyce Sharrock-Cole, BAC board member, Village of Ossining Historian, and member of RW250 Advisory Committee said, “RW250 connected us to the Living History Co. We are excited that they will portray Revolutionary era black soldiers and black women who were camp members during our February 2 opening reception.” Sharrock-Cole continued, “We are grateful to RW250 for sponsoring Dr. Green’s presentation on her book Revolutionary Blacks: Discovering the Frank Brothers, Freeborn Men of Color, Soldiers of Independence as part of our exhibit.” Dr. Green’s February 22 presentation will start at 7 pm after a 6 pm reception at the Ossining Public Library (free but registration required at www.ossininglibrary.org).
RW250 is also sponsoring a presentation by Dr. Green on February 24 at 10 am at the Grinton I. Will Public Library in Yonkers (free but registration required at www.ypl.org/grinton-i-will-library). In both presentations, Dr. Green will discuss the experiences of William and Benjamin Frank, brothers who enlisted in Rhode Island Regiments during the American Revolutionary War in 1777. The brothers’ experiences include two major battles and the tragic circumstances met by Rhode Island soldiers at Pines Bridge (Yorktown, NY) in 1781. Dr. Green will talk about the significant distinction between free Blacks in military service and those who had been enslaved, and how they responded in different ways to the harsh realities of war.
RW250 is sponsoring a one woman living history experience by Judith Kalaora, founder of History at PlayTM LLC, at the Greenburgh Public Library on March 27 at 6:30 pm. In A Revolution of Her Own,TM Kalaora portrays Deborah Sampson, the first woman to enlist, fight, and be honorably discharged from the American Military. Disguised as a man and fighting in the Fourth Massachusetts Regiment, Sampson was wounded near Tarrytown. Families are encouraged to bring school-aged children given the youth focus of this experience (free but registration required at www.greenburghlibrary.org).
George Latimer, Westchester County Executive stated, “Westchester County holds a unique position in the tapestry of the American Revolution, boasting numerous crucial historical sites. In the narrative of our heritage, it is imperative to illuminate the pivotal roles played by indigenous, African-American, and female figures. Through RW250, we embark on a journey to tell the complete story, ensuring that these historical figures' voices and contributions are acknowledged and celebrated, forging a richer and more inclusive understanding of our shared past.”
Kehoe added, “Our commemoration of Westchester’s singular role in the Revolutionary War cannot be fully understood without including the names and stories of Captain Sachem Daniel Nimham, the Frank Brothers of the Rhode Island Regiment, Deborah Sampson, and other black and indigenous soldiers and women.”
Residents and visitors can stay informed about these and other upcoming events by subscribing to Revolutionary Westchester 250’s monthly e-newsletter here. They can also follow the organization on Facebook @revolutionarywestchester250 and on Instagram @revolutionary_westchester_250.
About Revolutionary Westchester 250
Revolutionary Westchester 250 (RW250) is a charitable not-for-profit corporation organized to provide for the observance and commemoration of the pivotal role of Westchester County, NY in the American Revolution, the founding of the United States and related events. RW250 was created to further the purpose of the national Semiquincentennial Commission, established by Congress in 2016 to commemorate the coming 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States, 1776-2026.
About the Bethany Arts Community
Bethany Arts Community in Ossining is a space and environment where all forms of art can be learned and expressed, where hope & acceptance are the norms. Nurturing the creative process, Bethany welcomes artists, from young to old, and all levels of experience, to explore and create art that the community can engage with. Bethany fosters sharing, connection, and collaboration, in an inclusive culture where people experience the power of art to improve lives and expand their perceptions and perspectives of the world. https://bethanyarts.org/
RW250 Roundtable Book Group
Professor Michael Crowder from Iona University’s Institute for Thomas Paine Studies moderated a wide ranging discussion of Rick Atkinson’s book The British are Coming, the first volume of a trilogy about the American Revolution. From the statistics about death rates of soldiers (one in ten), to how very long the conflict lasted (3,089 days—longer than WWII), participants covered topics such as the perception of the Hessian auxiliary troops, the Declaration of Independence, the Battle of White Plains—more than “just” the battle at Chatterton Hill. Nearly 40 people joined the discussion and viewed a short video of Atkinson revealing his experience examining newly-available British government documents in Windsor Castle—one of the first researchers to be given access.
To participate in our next book group discussion subscribe to our free monthly newsletter here.
RW250 Sets Sights on 250th Anniversary Celebration of American Independence Coming in 2026
From left to right, RW250 Executive Committee members Niles Jaeger, Constance Kehoe, Char Weigel, Marc Cheshire, Frank Kaiman review Revolutionary War era letters at the United States Military Academy Library at West Point.
The British are coming! And the French! In fact, representatives from countries around the world will arrive in the region in July of 2026 to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States. The local non-profit organization Revolutionary Westchester 250 (RW250) is working to ensure that Westchester County plays a central role in these regional celebrations, matching the crucial role the county played during the Revolutionary War itself. The organization has set an ambitious agenda for 2024, seeking to build momentum towards the “semiquincentennial,” while rolling out new programming ranging from free, GPS-enabled audio tours to presentations across the county.
RW250 President Constance Kehoe commented, “Many Westchester residents remember the excitement of the Bicentennial celebrations in 1976. As we approach the 250th Anniversary of our nation’s founding, we want to ensure that new audiences, including our young residents, gain an appreciation for the role that Westchester County played in the American Revolution.” She continued, “Perhaps we can even inspire a sense of wonder at the origins and future of our nation’s grand democratic experiment while we continue to work together to build a more perfect union.”
During 2024, RW250 plans a number of special initiatives. During Black History Month in February, the organization plans programming drawing attention to the often overlooked contribution of Black soldiers of the Rhode Island Regiment. During Women’s History Month in March, a program will highlight the remarkable story of Deborah Sampson, a courageous woman who disguised herself as a man and fought in the Continental Army.
In spring 2024, the organization will launch a free, GPS-enabled audio tour, created in partnership with TravelStorysGPS, that highlights key Revolutionary-era sites throughout Westchester County. Residents and visitors will be able to download the free app and the tour to their iPhone or Android devices and listen as they travel to the various locations. RW250 will also be debuting a free map and guide to key Revolutionary War sites across the county for residents and visitors to access.
In fall 2024, RW250 will partner with the Rockefeller Brothers Fund on a special exhibition at The Pocantico Center in Tarrytown with details to be announced.
One area of focus for RW250 in 2024 is working with regional partners including Sail 4th 250. This organization is well underway in its work to create the “Sail4th 250” celebration in New York, featuring tall ships from around the world. While New York City will be a focus for these vessels in celebrations culminating on July 4, 2026, RW250 is working closely with organizers to extend a Parade of Sail for selected vessels to sail north up the Hudson River immediately after the NYC event. Potential docking in cities including Yonkers and Peekskill, as well as spectator viewing from shoreline communities and the Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge Path, would enable local residents to experience these magnificent ships from distinctive vantage points. The county’s sound shore communities would also experience selected ships sailing into New York City’s breathtaking celebration in advance of July 4th. Long Island Sound was a hunting ground for privateers, smugglers, and spies during the revolution.
The Hudson River played a pivotal role in the Revolutionary War, so a parade of ships up the river is historically relevant and will also provide access to anniversary celebrations for a broad cross-section of New York State residents. Such maritime displays do require financial support, however, and for this reason RW250 and its regional partners are urging NY State lawmakers to allocate funds towards the initiative. Likewise, the group is urging Governor Kathy Hochul to complete the appointments needed to seat New York State’s 250th Commemoration Commission. Formation of the commission will qualify the State for Federal Funding related to the 250th Anniversary Celebration.
Natasha Caputo, Director of Westchester County Tourism and Film, and a member of the RW250 Advisory Board, added, “Westchester played a vital role in America’s battle for independence. We look forward to welcoming visitors this year and in the years ahead who seek to learn more about the people and places that led to our country’s founding. We’re confident that the combination of historic sites, special events, natural beauty and recreational opportunities here in Westchester will have visitors coming back for more!”
Visitors can stay informed about upcoming events by subscribing to Revolutionary Westchester 250’s monthly e-newsletter at www.rw250.org. They can also follow the organization on Facebook @revolutionarywestchester250 or on Instagram @revolutionary_westchester_250
“Treason of the Blackest Dye” at West Point
RW250 Executive Committee (left to right): Niles Jaeger, Constance Kehoe, Char Weigel, Marc Cheshire, Frank Kaiman.
The RW250 Executive Committee was thrilled receive an invitation from Douglass Litts, Archive & Special Collections Librarian of the United States Military Academy Library at West Point, to see some of the rare letters, reports and maps related to the treason of Benedict Arnold, along with maps of the Battle of White Plains. To further our mission to bring awareness to the critically important events of the Revolution that played out right here in the Hudson Valley, we work to research and amplify the accurate historical record of events like these.
With Douglass and fellow librarian Susan Lintelman, we were treated to a chance to look closely at an original 1780 letter signed by General Washington in the immediate aftermath of Benedict Arnold’s betrayal, an orderly book recording that “treason of the blackest dye” was discovered the previous day and a letter from an ordinary soldier, recording his reaction to Arnold’s attempt to turn over the fort at West Point to the British—a plan foiled by the capture in Tarrytown of his accomplice, British Major John André, by three militiamen in Tarrytown.
Orderly Book of Captain Samuel Frost (6th. Mass. Rgt.) under General Nathanael Greene, Headquarters, Orange Town, Sept. 26, 1780, using the term “Treason of the Blackest Dye”.
RW250 Roundtable Book Group Selection
The British Are Coming: The War for America, Lexington to Princeton, 1775-1777 by Rick Atkinson is the next RW250 Roundtable Book Group selection.
The discussion will take place on Sunday, January 21 at 4 p.m. on Zoom.
To register click here.
The Institute for Thomas Paine Studies at Iona University is once again joining RW250 as a cosponsor. Dr. Michael Crowder, ITPS Public Historian, will moderate the discussion.
The first book in the Pulitzer Prize-winning author’s Revolution Trilogy recounts the first twenty-one months of America’s violent war for independence. From the battles at Lexington and Concord in spring 1775, to the Battle of White Plains in the fall of 1776 and to those at Trenton and Princeton in winter 1777, American militiamen and then the ragged Continental Army take on the world’s most formidable fighting force. It is a gripping saga alive with astonishing characters: Henry Knox, the former bookseller with an uncanny understanding of artillery; Nathanael Greene, the blue-eyed bumpkin who becomes a brilliant battle captain; Benjamin Franklin, the self-made man who proves to be the wiliest of diplomats; George Washington, the commander in chief who learns the difficult art of leadership when the war seems all but lost. The story is also told from the British perspective, making the mortal conflict between the redcoats and the rebels all the more compelling. Full of riveting details and untold stories, The British Are Coming is a tale of heroes and knaves, of sacrifice and blunder, of redemption and profound suffering.
Get your copy from a local library or bookseller and plan to join us on January 21.