The Green-Wood Historic Fund is commemorating the anniversary of the Battle of Brooklyn with a weekend of events on Saturday and Sunday, August 26-27, 2017.
Fought on August 27, 1776 across Brooklyn, including land that is now part of Green-Wood Cemetery, it was the first battle of the American Revolution to be waged after the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
In terms of the total number of British and American troops poised and ready to fight, this was the largest battle of the Revolution.
On Saturday, August 26, 2017, from 7 to 10 pm, the Green-Wood will host the Brooklyn Contra, who will lead dance demonstrations to festive music, along with storytellers regaling with tales of battles won and lost, musical interludes by the duo Charming Disaster, and a sampling of beers donated by Lagunitas Brewing Company. The cost is $25 for adults, $10 for children 5 and older, free for children under 5, and $20 for members of the Green-Wood Historic Fund and members of the Brooklyn Historical Society. Reservations are recommended. To make an online reservation or to find out more information, click here or call (718) 210-3080.
On Sunday, August 27, 2017, from 11 am to 12:30 pm, the Green-Wood will host re-enactors who will demonstrate revolutionary weaponry and tactics. Attendees will have the chance to meet soldiers and other historic figures of Colonial America. From 12:30 to 1:15 pm, a Battle of Brooklyn Parade will be held, including a Revolutionary regiment flag carry and march from Green-Wood’s Main Gate to Battle Hill with The Regimental Band of the United States Merchant Marine Academy. From 1:15 to 2 pm a Commemorative Ceremony will be held to honor the heroes of the Battle of Brooklyn atop Battle Hill, the highest natural point in Brooklyn, while overlooking the New York Harbor. All events are free. To register, click here or call (718) 210-3080
The Green-Wood is located at 25th Street at 5th Avenue, Brooklyn. Free parking is available.
Photo: Green-Wood Cemetery, courtesy David Shankbone.
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