Presidents Day Weekend is always a big deal in Newburgh, home to Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site where the General lived when he turned 51-years-old in 1783.
This year marks the 280 years since George Washington’s birth and event organizers at the historic site promise that the three-day celebration starting Saturday, February 18 will have “something of interest for everyone.” They also advise visitors to be prepared to sing “Happy Birthday” at the start of each day.
Since it’s the anniversary of General Washington’s birth, guess who will show up every day? That’s right! – General Washington, portrayed by John Koopman. As a special treat, Thaddeus McGregor will provide musical entertainment accompanied by his wee friend, a wooden “limberjack,” who answers to the name of Jim.
For the children, there will be Fireside Tales, on Saturday. All three days, a game entitled “Lead The Way To Newburgh,” will be played, and a build-a-puppet craft will be open to all who would like to use the decorated puppet theatre for a little show in George Washington’s honor.
On Saturday, Tom Lake, from the Hudson River Almanac, will tell visitors about “The River Before George.” On Sunday, Christian Crouch, an Assistant Professor of History at Bard College, will present, “I Want To Be A British Officer: Washington and the Seven Years War.” On Monday, Richard Lahey, a long-standing member of the Mid-Hudson Drivers’ Association, will speak about “Sleighs of the Hudson Valley.” Utilizing slides and actual sleighing equipment, Mr. Lahey will elaborate on the importance of that particular means of transportation during the early years of our country’s growth.
Listen, watch and learn about 18th-century military life and firearms from re-enactors. On Saturday, a lecture and drills will be given by Lamb’s Artillery. On Sunday, the 5th New York Regiment will offer a program about its history, along with presenting drills. On Monday, the 5th Connecticut Regiment, rounding out the weekend, will provide a program and demonstration in similar fashion.
Enjoy daily events that will entertain and enlighten all who attend. On Saturday, catch up on some trivia playing the “First Ladies Name Game.” On Sunday, hear about an important document written by General Washington while in Newburgh, “The Circular Letter.” On Sunday and Monday, have some fun playing “Presidential Trivia.”
Bring your camera and put yourself in the picture as George or Martha Washington. The famous couple will be featured in a cutout board all three days.
Call 845-562-1195 for more information and a daily program schedule.
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