Brigade of the American Revolution

Next June, two neighboring counties will come together for a single, immersive weekend of Revolutionary War living history. With both Putnam County and Westchester County marking the 250th anniversary of American independence, the Brigade of the American Revolution—alongside partner organizations—has developed a coordinated plan that highlights regional collaboration while delivering a meaningful and engaging public experience.

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The weekend begins on Friday evening, June 5, when reenactors and living historians will be welcomed to Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park in Putnam County, New York, where participants may arrive, set up tents, and remain overnight in preparation for Saturday’s main event. The centerpiece of the weekend takes place on Saturday, June 6, as Putnam County hosts its official 250th-anniversary commemoration, sponsored by the 5th Connecticut Regiment, the Brigade of the American Revolution, and Putnam County, New York Revolutionary 250. This full day of programming will feature military drills and demonstrations, stirring fife and drum music, musket firing exhibitions, and immersive interpretive programming for the public. Participating units are encouraged to bring their full camp tentage and will take part in tactical demonstrations and battlefield interpretation throughout the day. Each reenactor will receive a $200 stipend in recognition of their participation in this primary commemorative event.

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While military programming is underway in Putnam County on Saturday, The Grange in Yorktown Heights will host complementary civilian-focused programming centered on women’s history. This will include portrayals of Martha Washington and demonstrations of 18th-century laundry, domestic crafts, and household life, providing a broader interpretive lens on the Revolutionary era.

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Following the conclusion of the Putnam County event at 5:00 PM, participants will journey to The Grange in Yorktown Heights for an 18th-century–themed community dinner, an 18th-century dance, and ground fireworks at 9:00 PM, offering a shared evening experience that keeps participants engaged and connected. Participants are invited to remain overnight in Yorktown Heights on Saturday night, allowing for a smooth transition into Sunday’s programming.

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On Sunday, June 7, the weekend continues with the Rochambeau Festival in Yorktown Heights, where military units and civilian interpreters will reunite for a full day of tactical demonstrations, living history vignettes, and public engagement. Participation on Sunday is an essential component of the weekend’s collaborative framework. Each participant will receive an additional $100 stipend from the Rochambeau Association, bringing the total weekend compensation to $300 per reenactor.

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This coordinated effort allows Putnam County and Westchester County to jointly showcase their Revolutionary War heritage while maximizing impact, participation, and public engagement across the region—creating one unified weekend with a clear focal event and strong continuity throughout.