As we approach the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, our Revolutionary Rye 250 initiative is deepening our understanding of this pivotal time in American history and the role Rye had to play in it. Our committee contributes to several community-driven events focused on American history; this webpage houses the details of prior and upcoming RR250 events.
Lafayette Returns to Rye: Celebrating 200 Years (1824 - 2024) - August 18, 2024
In August 2024, the American Friends of Lafayette Bicentennial celebration commemorated the 200th anniversary of Major General Lafayette’s return tour to America, including his lunch at the Square House. The Square House, now part of the Rye Historical Society and serving as a museum, is one of few stops from his NY tour that still stands.
The day included proclamations welcoming Lafayette, a Q&A, and a tour of the Square House where Lafayette once dined.
Caden Powers, Rye Historical Intern & RCDS Junior with Marquis De Lafayette at the August 18th celebration.
Independence Day Event
July 4, 2024 at 10am, Library Steps and Village Green, Rye, NY
The Rye Historical Society, in collaboration with Leaders of Tomorrow, hosted a special event on July 4th to honor Rye's pivotal role in American independence. This program was part of the Revolutionary Rye 250 initiative and promised a day filled with historical significance and patriotic celebration.
The centerpiece of this event was a thoughtfully curated lineup, focusing on Rye's crucial contributions to our nation's independence. Highlights included historical reenactments, speeches, songs, and family activities.
Immediately following the program of activities, the Square House Inn & Tavern Museum were open for Guided Tours. All activities were free and open to the public.
Douglas Carey as Ebenezer Haviland leads the July 4th festivities.
Virtual Book Talk: 1774, Reflections on a Long Year of Revolution
May 9, 2024
In collaboration with the Rye Reading Room and the Institute of History, Archaeology, and Education, esteemed historian and author Dr. Mary Beth Norton delivered a virtual discussion about the often-overlooked year of 1774. This pivotal period in American Revolution was marked by stirrings of resistance and dissent.
A fascinating discourse and discussion led by Pam McGuire, co-chairman of the Rye Historical Society’s Revolutionary 250 Committee followed Dr. Norton’s remarks. Pam delved into Rye’s significance in 1774, a time when Dr. Haviland, a prominent member of the Rye community, spearheaded efforts as town supervisor, town clerk, and leader of the Rye Patriots. Learned about the pivotal meeting held on August 10, 1774, likely at the Square House, in response to the Boston Tea Party, and the formation of a committee supporting the Continental Congress in Philadelphia and protested taxation without representation
If you couldn’t make it to the event and are interested in learning more about this period in American history, Dr. Mary Beth Norton’s book focused on it is available in the Square House Museum gift shop. You may also view the PowerPoint of the event agenda here.