Raising the Flag at Washington's Headquarters – Huzzah!

I was delightfully surprised to be given the privilege on July 22 to join New York State Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Erik Kulleseid in cutting the ribbon to unveil new walking paths and landscaping improvements at Washington’s Headquarters State Historic in Newburgh. Earlier this year, our National Society donated a new flag and flagpole as part of the site improvements at this, the first publicly owned historic site in the nation (purchased by New York State due to its historical significance in 1850).

Washington spent more time here than anywhere else during the Revolution, some 16 months in all.  It was here that Washington rejected the idea of an American monarchy; ended the Newburgh Conspiracy, preventing potential military control of the government; created the Badge of Military Merit, forerunner of the Purple Heart; and circulated an influential letter to State Governors outlining the key principals he felt necessary for the new republic.

I have long been involved in support of this historic site, which lies almost directly across the Hudson River from my home. The site also hosts the Tower of Victory — the monument ordered by the U.S. Congress to mark the centennial of the war in the 1870s. I chaired a committee to restore the original roof on the Tower of Victory several years ago and have helped with multiple other efforts here through the years. It was especially exciting to see the recently restored East Gate finally replaced on the tower — it had been damaged by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. 

I was so very grateful to have our National Society add the beautiful 60-foot flagpole to the grounds and to send along a magnificent Flag of the United States of America that flew over our DAR Constitution Hall for this ceremony.  Both are now quite visible for passing boat traffic on the Hudson below. I am deeply grateful to those of you who make possible donations like this through your support of our various committees and the General Fund. In particular, the 1890 Giving Circle that benefits the General Fund often allows us to be able to complete this sort of public outreach – an important part of my goal for DAR to rise and SHINE through improved public visibility. Allow me to thank the Sustaining Supporters who so faithfully provide financial support that enables this type of public involvement – something that is so critical to our ability to both raise awareness of the good works of our Society and attract new women to our enduring mission.