On May 23, 1789, Nathaniel Sackett sent a long, rambling letter to newly inaugurated president George Washington. The letter informed Washington that Congress had denied Sackett’s proposal that he be granted federal lands in order to create a new state bounded by the Ohio, Scioto, and Muskingum Rivers and Lake Erie. [Read more…] about Nathaniel Sackett: Godfather of American Intelligence
Culper Spy Ring
Long Island Project: Setauket’s Deeper History
There is more to Setauket, Long Island than the story of the Culper Spy Ring. The deeper story, which includes the original Setalcott inhabitants and generations of African Americans, does not often show up in the historical record.
On the latest episode of The Long Island History Project, we speak with anthropologist Christopner Matthews about how archaeology can help bring this neglected past to life. [Read more…] about Long Island Project: Setauket’s Deeper History
Culper Spy Day Set For September 15th
The 4th Annual Culper Spy Day, celebrating the members of the Long Island patriot spy ring that helped change the course of the American Revolutionary War, has been set for September 15th, at Sherwood-Jayne Farm, 55 Old Post Road, in Setauket on Long Island.
While most Culper Spy Day events highlight the exploits of George Washington’s patriot spies, the Sherwood-Jayne House will give visitors a Loyalist’s view of this time period in Long Island’s history. Local Long Island Tory, William Jayne II, also known as “Big Bill the Tory”, will hold court at the Jayne family home at 55 Old Post Road. [Read more…] about Culper Spy Day Set For September 15th
Feinman: Make NYS History Great Again
On August 28, 2012, Governor Andrew Cuomo launched the Path through History program.
The plenary address was given by Kenneth Jackson of Columbia University. In his address, Jackson spoke of the ways in which New York had been a national leader over the centuries. He recounted various events, named various people and places, and highlighted the prominence of the Empire State. He also noted how much better other states like Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Virginia were at touting their history. You would never know that George Washington spent more time here than in any other state during the American Revolution.
How have things gone in the last six years? What should we advocate for during this gubernatorial election year? To read more go to Make New York State History Great Again.