News & Events (Lots of Events!) from Revolutionary Westchester 250
NEWS
Discovering Local Stories of the Revolutionary War Era in New York State
The Albert Wisner Public Library in Warwick, N.Y. has prepared a useful guide to help historians, educators, and students discover a more complete story of their community in the Revolutionary War. Although the resources are often specific to the State of New York, the research strategies can help those researching other locations as well. See the guide here.
Educator’s Open House at Philipse Manor Hall
Educators of all backgrounds and grade levels are welcome to attend an Educator’s Open House free of charge with school ID. Explore the exhibits, learn more about field trip opportunities at Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site and other Yonkers organizations, and try your hand at the fur trade game! Sponsored by the Friends of Philipse Manor Hall, who will also provide refreshments.
Saturday, September 16, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, 29 Warburton Avenue, Yonkers, N.Y.
We Need Your Help!
As County-wide planning for 2026 begins, RW250 wants to make sure we’re reaching historical societies, heritage groups, reenactors, historic sites and museums in Westchester County. Can you help us contact key officers and program planners? Feel free to forward this newsletter to others and ask if they already receive it.
An email to 1776RW250@gmail.com with updated contact information for organizations would be appreciated. Anyone can sign up for the newsletter here.
¡Vénganse a explorar la casa histórica Philipse Manor Hall¡ (Spanish Language Tours of Philipse Manor Hall State)
Exploren el nuevo museo con una guía turística que habla español. Aprendan sobrelos pueblos europeos, africanos, e indígenas en Nueva York en la época colonial. Los niños son bienvenidos.
Entradas: $6 para los adultos, $3 para los Señores y los estudiantes. Los niños que tienen menos de 12 años : entrada gratis. Todos los domingos a la 1:30 de la tarde. Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, 29 Warburton Avenue, Yonkers, N.Y.
EVENTS
Native American Reenactor at John Jay Homestead
Join historical reenactor and Algonkian Drew Shuptar-Rayvis (Pekatawas MakataweU “Black Corn”) to learn about Algonkian culture and history in New York State during the 18th century. Drew will discuss Algonkian customs of war, adoption and captivity, alliances, and friendships and marriages between Natives, Europeans, and Africans. Best of all, he will be displaying several traditional items and artifacts for guests to examine. Feel free to bring your questions!
This free, family-friendly event will be held alongside the John Jay Homestead’s weekly Farm Market. The Homestead will be featuring Living History presenters on the first Saturday of every month through October.
Saturday, September 2, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. John Jay Homestead State Historic Site, 400 Jay Street, Katonah, N.Y.
Historical Games
How did people entertain themselves in the past? Join us indoors (outdoors, weather-permitting) at Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site to try your hand at all kinds of historical games. Learn the history behind these games and then learn how to play Quoits, Nine Men’s Morris, Shut the Box, Cribbage, Whist, and more!
This event is free, no registration required. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Saturday, September 2, 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, 29 Warburton Avenue, Yonkers, N.Y.
Carving Legends: Gravestones to Gourds in Sleepy Hollow
An interactive program with artist and pumpkin carver Jonas LG Karlsson to learn carving techniques using gourds, followed by an exhibit on colonial and patriot gravestones at The Historical Society, Inc., serving Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown.
There are three sessions on Friday and Saturday, September 8 and 9. A fee of $15 includes a gourd and use of carving tools. Click here to register.
The Historical Society, Inc., serving Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown. One Grove Street, Tarrytown, N.Y.
Tales of the Hudson Valley
Master storyteller Jonathan Kruk, accompanied by musician Steve Kelman, will delight audiences of all ages with 18th and 19th century stories focusing on the legends and lore of the Hudson Valley. Jonathan’s presentation will both entertain and educate visitors about our local heritage and culture. This event is free.
Saturday, September 9, 2 p.m. Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site, 44 Battlefield Road, Stony Point, N.Y.
Common Sense, a Musical About Thomas Paine
Tutti Bravi Productions, Inc. in collaboration with the New Rochelle Public Library, presents Thomas Paine: Common Sense, an original musical written by John Taylor Thomas of New Rochelle. The performance centers on the influential life of the political activist, philosopher, writer, and patriot who lived out his later years on his farm in New Rochelle. Some of the historical figures who gave birth to our country are also brought to life in this spirited production.
There are two free performances. Registration requested, click here for Saturday and here for Sunday.
Saturday & Sunday, September 9 & 10, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Ossie Davis Theater, New Rochelle Public Library, 1 Library Plaza, New Rochelle, N.Y.
Sherwood House Tours
Sherwood House Museum, operated by the Yonkers Historical Society, will open to the public for tours on Sunday, September 10, and every Sunday thereafter until December 3. Learn the history of this 1740 tenant farmhouse and the families that lived there before the Revolutionary War.
Sunday, September 10, 17, and 24, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sherwood House, 340 Tuckahoe Road, Yonkers. Free parking is available on the site.
Private small-group tours may be arranged by contacting the YHS at: info@yonkershistoricalsociety.org or by phone at 914-961-8940.
3rd New Jersey Garrison Day at Fort Montgomery
Witness a day of tactical demonstrations, drills, camp life, and cooking at historic Fort Montgomery. The 3rd New Jersey Regiment is a living history group dedicated to historical authenticity, offering an exciting, authentic glimpse of Continental soldiering and camp follower life during the American Revolution. This family-friendly outdoor event is free.
Sunday, September 10, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fort Montgomery State Historic Site, 690 Route 9W, Fort Montgomery, N.Y.
Unfriendly to Liberty: Loyalist Networks and the Coming of the American Revolution in New York City
Most histories of the American Revolution focus on those who became “patriots,” or revolutionaries. The standard narrative tracks their activism from the mid-1760s until the Battles of Lexington and Concord. This story, however, misunderstands and omits the importance of those who became loyalists in the American Revolution. Many, if not most, future loyalists opposed the British Parliament’s reorientation of the British Empire—just like those who became patriots. This talk will focus on a group of New Yorkers who became loyalists and document their paths to the American Revolution. In doing so, it will challenge traditional understandings of not only loyalists but also the coming of the American Revolution, the origins of American political practice, and the history of New York City.
Virtual tickets are free. Register here. In-person seating is limited. Call 914-965-4027 to reserve your spot. Tickets are $6 for adults, $3 for seniors and students, pay at the door. Doors open at 6:45 p.m.
September 13, 7 p.m. Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, 29 Warburton Avenue, Yonkers, N.Y.
Rendezvous with Treason: Benedict Arnold & John André
Join Gary Petagine and Sean Grady as they portray General Benedict Arnold and Major John André meeting for the first time in Haverstraw to discuss transmitting the plans of West Point to the British Army. This 45-minute dramatic presentation will explain the famous Arnold/André plot and the importance of West Point to the American cause. Please arrive early to secure a seat for this popular performance. This event is free.
Saturday, September 16, 2 p.m. Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site, 44 Battlefield Road, Stony Point, N.Y.
Yonkers Waterfront Walking Tour
Why was Philipse Manor Hall built where it was? Why did the Munsee have a village in downtown Yonkers for thousands of years? How did the Yonkers waterfront change over time? Learn the answers to these questions and more as you explore the daylighted Saw Mill River and Yonkers’ Hudson River waterfront.
Tickets are $6 for adults $3 for seniors and students and include museum admission. To reserve your spot email sarah.johnson@parks.ny.gov or call 914-965-4027.
Saturday, September 16, 10:30 a.m. Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, 29 Warburton Avenue, Yonkers, N.Y.
Colonial Wool Spinning and Dyeing
Discover out how wool was carded and spun in the 18th century. Spin your own sample of knitting wool! Watch a natural dyeing demonstration and learn about the dyeing process from Handweaver’s Guild member and reenactor Barbara Johns. This free program has a hands-on component for kids.
Saturday, September 16, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fort Montgomery State Historic Site, 690 Route 9W, Fort Montgomery, N.Y.
John Jay and the United States Constitution
Join Sons of the Revolution in the State of New York to celebrate the signing of the United States Constitution on September 17, 1787, featuring special guest Justice Mark Dillon. Dillon is the author of The First Chief Justice: John Jay and the Struggle of a New Nation. He will speak on John Jay and the United States Constitution.
The in-person event is a fundraiser, but the presentation will be free on Zoom. Click here to register for either event.
Monday, September 18, 6:30 p.m. Fraunces Tavern Museum, 54 Pearl Street, New York, N.Y.
Harvest Festival at Philipse Manor Hall
Step back in time to the late 18th century! This free family-friendly outdoor festival will feature costumed reenactors and hands-on activities. September was the time of year when tenant farmers on the Philipse Manor would harvest their wheat and start to bring it to the Philipse grist mills for assessment and grinding into flour. September was also apple harvest time in the Philipse orchards.
Try your hand at grinding grain in a stone mill, grinding up apples for cider in a cider press, and other hands-on activities. Meet military and civilian reenactors, including General George Washington and his horse Nelson, members of Lord Dunmore’s Ethiopian Regiment and the American First Rhode Island Regiment, colonial-era craftsmen, and more. Play colonial-era games and learn more about the history of Westchester County before and during the American Revolution. The festival coincides with Yonkers RiverFest, featuring music, shopping, and food. Spend the day!
This free event is sponsored in part by the Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area and the Friends of Philipse Manor Hall.
September 23, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, 29 Warburton Avenue, Yonkers, N.Y.
Cookies with André
Spend a delightful afternoon with British Officer and spy Major John André, who will speak about his infamous life and death during the American Revolution. Major André will discuss his interactions with the traitorous Benedict Arnold as well as his career in the British Army. In true British fashion, tea and cookies will be served to all guests. Reenactor David Neilsen brings the infamous spy back to life just in time to celebrate the 243rd anniversary of his capture in Tarrytown by three honest militiamen. This program is presented by The Historical Society, Inc., serving Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown, in partnership with Revolutionary Westchester 250.
Seating is limited, advance reservations equired. Click here.
Saturday, September 23, 2 p.m. Christ Church, 43 South Broadway, Tarrytown, NY. On street parking is recommended. There is no parking on the church property.
Spencer’s Additional Regiment Encampment
Raised as an auxiliary force for Washington’s Continental Army, the reenactors in Spencer’s Additional Regiment will conduct camp activities while explaining the unit’s start in New Jersey and how they followed the army. Spencer’s Regiment also garrisoned Stony Point in 1780 and was present during the Arnold/André affair. This event is free.
Saturday, September 23, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site, 44 Battlefield Road, Stony Point, N.Y.
This Man’s A Spy!
This Man’s A Spy! is a concert of songs inspired by the fateful encounter of American General Benedict Arnold and British Major John André and their treasonous plot to deliver West Point to the British. Had their plan succeeded, the British may have won the Revolutionary War. The songs are composed and performed by Carla Lynne Hall and Jim Keyes. This lively event is appropriate for families, children ages 6+ and history enthusiasts.
Saturday, September 23, 1 p.m. Fort Montgomery State Historic Site, 690 Route 9W, Fort Montgomery, N.Y.
Networks of Slavery: How Bondage Shaped Hudson River Valley Culture
Dr. Nicole Saffold Maskiell, author of Bound by Bondage: Slavery and the Creation of a Northern Gentry will discuss the ways that slavery shaped Hudson River Valley culture by examining the social and kinship networks that intertwined enslavers with those they enslaved in the region and throughout the Northeast. She is an Associate Professor of History at the University of South Carolina and has appeared on CSPAN, the podcast Ben Franklin’s World, and in a Historic Hudson Valley documentary film about the life and legacy of Margaret Hardenbroeck Philipse, an early female trader and enslaver.
This is a free hybrid event, presented by The Hudson River Valley Institute and hosted by the Marist College Office of Alumni Relations. Registration is required whether you attend in person or online. For registration details click here.
Thursday, September 28, 7 p.m. Marist College, 3399 North Road, Poughkeepsie, N.Y.
George Washington’s Tents from the Museum of the American Revolution will be a highlight of Colonial Day.
Colonial Day, Featuring George Washington’s Tents from the Museum of the American Revolution
Come see what life was like during the 1781 Encampment of American and French troops in Greenburgh, N.Y.! Tour Washington’s Revolutionary War Tents, guided by historic interpreters from Philadelphia’s acclaimed Museum of the America Revolution.
Meet George Washington, Le Comte de Rochambeau, and Ben Franklin. See military marching and drills by re-enactors of the 5th New York Regiment and Hearts of Oak. Watch demonstrations of colonial cooking, wool spinning, blacksmithing, children’s toys and more. Learn about the role Odell House Rochambeau Headquarters played in the encampment and how this historic site is being restored.
Admission is $10 for ages 13+; $5 for ages 3-12 and active service members/veterans (with ID). Children under 3 are free.
Pay with cash, check or Visa, MasterCard and Discover cards at the event.
Saturday, September 30, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Hart’s Brook Park & Preserve, 156 Ridge Road, Hartsdale, N.Y.
Parking at Ridge Road Park, 287 Ridge Rd, Hartsdale, NY.
Free shuttle bus service to the nearby event site.
Sponsored by Friends of Odell House Rochambeau Headquarters and the Town of Greenburgh.
18th-Century Living Crafts
Barbara Johns will demonstrate spinning as done in the 18th century. From flax breaking to drop spindles and spinning wheels, she will explain how these spun fibers turned into sheets of cloth for clothing. At the same event Sharon Morrison will demonstrate how to weave a basket—an everyday item used during the American Revolution. Take your basket home too!
No reservations required for this free event.
Saturday, September 30, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site, 44 Battlefield Road, Stony Point, N.Y.
In Their Own Words, the Battle for Fort Montgomery
Come for a unique, extended tour of one of the Hudson Valley’s most dramatic battle sites. Drawing mainly on first-hand accounts and archaeological data, this ramble will bring to life the Revolutionary War attack on Fort Montgomery using the words of the soldiers who were there and what they left behind. Program will last about 2 hours and include rarely visited spots of the battlefield. This event is free.
Saturday, September 30, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Fort Montgomery State Historic Site, 690 Route 9W, Fort Montgomery, N.Y.