semiquincentennial 

  1. A 250th anniversary. synonym ▲

The year 2026 will mark the semiquincentennial of the founding of the United States.

What is Revolutionary Rye 250?

Revolutionary Rye 250 (RR250) is a committee of the Rye Historical Society, committed to researching, preserving, and celebrating the unique heritage of United States Revolutionary Era History. Inspired by America 250, the NYS 250th Commemoration Commission, and Revolutionary Westchester 250 (RW250) which commemorates the 250th anniversary or semiquincentennial of the Declaration of Independence, RR250 is focused on the enduring legacy of the American Revolution, with a special emphasis on our local narrative.

The original settlement of Rye began in 1660 at Peningo Neck, established by a group of settlers who named it after Rye in Sussex, England, in 1665. Rye was initially part of a larger area acquired from Native Americans by settlers from Greenwich, Connecticut. This area encompassed what are now Rye, Port Chester, and parts of Harrison and Purchase. Over time, Rye’s broader boundaries evolved, and the surrounding areas developed into the distinct towns and villages we know today. Our steering committee reflects members from the greater Rye community, acknowledging this shared history.

By engaging various stakeholders—including residents, educators, artists, the business community, students, and policymakers—RR250 seeks to foster a connection with our collective history. This engagement aims to deepen the understanding and appreciation of the events in and around Rye, NY, that have shaped the broader narrative of the United States, showcasing the evolution of core ideals such as freedom, liberty, and justice over time.

Revolutionary Rye 250 Steering Committee

The RR250 Steering Committee Commission has established a plan and is implementing events leading up to the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026.

Co-Chairs:

  • Jeannette Cummins, Rye Historical Society

  • Pam McGuire, Rye Historical Society

Members:

  • Lear Beyer, Rye Historical Society

  • Douglas Carey, Leaders of Tomorrow

  • Suzanne Clary, Jay Heritage Center

  • Josh Cohn, City of Rye

  • Joie Cooney, Rye Historical Society

  • Barbara Cummings, Rye Historical Society

  • Rachel Estroff, Office of State Senator Mayer

  • Clemmie Everett, Rye Country Day School

  • Peter Feinman, Institute of History, Archaeology, and Education

  • Peter Fellows, Mamaroneck Historical Society

  • Tracy Fitzpatrick, Purchase College

  • Paul Hicks, Rye Historical Society

  • Howard Husock, Rye Historical Society

  • Jackie Jenkins, Rye Historical Society

  • Constance Kehoe, Revolutionary Westchester 250

  • Lisa Keller, Purchase College

  • Jan Kelsey, Rye Historical Society

  • Shelley Mayer, Office of State Senator Mayer

  • Susan Morison, Rye Historical Society

  • Daniel O’Day, Rye Historical Society

  • Steve Otis, NY Assembly Office

  • Milly Pena, Purchase College

  • Jono Peters, Rye Historical Society

  • Debbie Reisner, Town of Rye

  • Paul Rheingold, Rye Historical Society

  • Frank Sanchez, Manhattanville University

  • Chris Shoemaker, Rye Free Reading Room

  • Jonathan Spurrell, Rye Historical Society

  • Arthur Stampleman, Rye Historical Society

  • Tracy Stora, Conservation Commission/Advisory Council

  • Jean Taplett, Town of Harrison

  • Lisa Urban, NY Assembly Office

  • Teresa Vega, Rye Historical Society

  • James Ward, The Rye Sustainability Committee

Rye Historical Committee Staff:

  • Anne Gold, Executive Director

  • Christine Moore, Archival Researcher