Putnam Celebrates America’s 250th Birthday With a Bang!

Revolutionary Putnam County Committee Co-Chairpersons George Whipple III and George Pataki are joined by Putnam Historian Jennfer Cassidy, County Executive Kevin Byrne, Elizabeth Whipple, Universal Commander Joe Ryan of the Fourth New York Regiment, and County Legislators Bill Gouldman, Amy Sayegh, and Laura Russo at the opening ceremony. Photo by Chloe Wareham-Gordon.

Staff Reports

“From Constitution Island to the Great Chain that kept the British from controlling the Hudson River, the Revolutionary War was won right here,” cheered the Hon. George Pataki, as he stood in period uniform in the center of Veterans Memorial Park in Carmel on June 6 to welcome attendees to the county’s joyful commemoration of 250 years of an independent America.

“It wasn’t just the generals who achieved victory, but ordinary men and women who did extraordinary things,” added fellow Revolutionary Putnam County Committee Co-Chairperson George Whipple III. “From Sachem Daniel Nimham and his son Abraham, to Sybil Ludington who rode through the night to raise her father’s militia, to Rifle Jack Peterson who fired on the British ship The Vulture to prevent Andre’s escape, the people of Putnam County contributed their best to help create this country that we love.”

“Putnam County Heroes Battle the Redcoats” was a celebration for the ages, as thousands of people young and old descended on the county park to view stage performances and reenactments, explore encampments, witness American and British military drills, experience cannon demonstrations, hear music, and enjoy period activities such as woodworking and blacksmithing – all to take pride in the part the county played in achieving independence for the American colonies beginning in 1775.

“Putnam County played a significant role in America’s fight for independence, and this event is an exciting opportunity for residents and families to experience that history firsthand,” said County Executive Kevin Byrne, himself a member of the Sons of the Revolution. “As our nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, we are proud to honor the heroes of the Hudson Highlands and bring Revolutionary-era history to life right here in Putnam County… This event would not be possible without the tremendous effort and passion of the committee, our county employees, and volunteers who have been working tirelessly to create a truly special experience for our community.”

According to Putnam Historian Jennfer Cassidy, the day was a huge success.

“This is a landmark event, with over 3,000 attending, and bringing together history enthusiasts, families, and visitors from across the region,” she said. “We welcomed 16 community groups devoted to Putnam County history. It was inspiring to see so many people engaging with local history through immersive experiences, storytelling, and hands-on experiences.”

The day’s highlight was a battle demonstration that included 130 reenactors on the field. As the Fifth New York regiment led by Rob Bucchieri, and supported by the Jersey Blues and the Fourth New York Artillery led by Larry Maxwell, moved down the field toward the British and Hessians troops, the smoke from their muskets and the sounds of fife and drum, the hoofbeats of the dragoons’ horses, and the cries of the “wounded” all helped the throng of spectators imagine themselves transported back hundreds of years.

The conflict was ably narrated by Col. Joe Ryan of the Fifth NY and the Living History Education Foundation.

Local events commemorating the 250 anniversary of the American Revolution continue throughout the year. For a calendar of activities and commemorations, visit www.putnamcountyny.gov/rev250.