Tensions were high in the colony of Massachusetts in the spring of 1775. Two years earlier, in
response to the Boston Tea Party, the British crown had placed the colony under military rule
under the command of Major-General Thomas Gage. Since then, colonial resentment of British
taxes and regulations had only grown stronger, and local militias had become more numerous
and active. On April 18, 1775, General Gage was informed that a significant amount of weapons
and ammunition were being stockpiled by local militias in the town of Concord. Gage dispatched
a patrol to the area in order to seize the weapons and prevent violence. As the patrol moved
forth that evening, Paul Revere and patriot spies learned of their mission and began to mobilize
an opposition force. In the early morning hours of April 19th, the two forces crossed paths in the
town of Lexington. At some point in the confrontation, a shot – which would later become known
as the “shot heard ‘round the world”- was fired, and the first battle of the American Revolution
was fought.
Now, 250 years later, towns and cities all across the country are planning and hosting events to
celebrate the start of our nation’s journey to independence. I’m proud to announce that
Clarkstown will be among those towns participating in this commemoration. As the year
progresses, we will be hosting a series of events offering opportunities for all generations to
engage with our nation’s past. From educational programs and reenactments to community
gatherings, this celebration will be both a tribute to our history and a bridge to our future. I
encourage each of you to take part in the activities that best speak to your interests and help
our younger generations gain a deeper appreciation of the remarkable efforts our forefathers
undertook to secure our independence.
Kicking off our celebrations is a unique opportunity to get a taste of what life was like during the
American Revolutionary War period. A program of free daytime activities open to the general
public will take place on Saturday, April 26th on the grounds of the Historic Traphagen Property
in West Nyack. Beginning at 2:00 pm, visitors can participate in Colonial-period activities such
as candle making and a blacksmithing demonstration. Tours of both the Traphagen and Budke
historic houses will be available, and there will be performances by military and political re-
enactors.
Following the free daytime events, the town will host its first-ever Colonial Campout, where
registrants can camp out on the grounds and enjoy an evening of family fun, including a
barbecue dinner, a movie and games, and roasting marshmallows by the campfire. Overnight
guests will awaken to a light breakfast provided by town staff on Sunday morning. The cost is
$25 per adult and $20 per child under 18. Again, this portion of the celebration is by registration only. Please call the Clarkstown Parks and Recreation Office at 845-639-6200 or visit their
webpage to register. Space is limited, so act soon.
The American Revolution was more than just a war; it was the birth of the noble idea that a
nation could stand where all people were created equal and had the right to life, liberty, and the
pursuit of happiness. This anniversary is not only a chance to honor our history but also an
opportunity to reflect on how we, as a community, can continue to uphold and advance these
principles.
I hope you will join us for one or both of these family fun events on Saturday, April 26th. My staff
and I are planning other celebrations throughout the year, so stay tuned and watch for further
announcements for opportunities to have some fun in the present while celebrating our
revolutionary past.
