News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:
Kathleen Mitchell
845-562-1195
(CAN BE PRINTED UNTIL FEBRUARY 15TH)
WASHINGTON’S HEADQUARTERS CELEBRATES
GEORGE WASHINGTON’S BIRTHDAY
(Newburgh, NY … January 22, 2010) NEWS FLASH!! GEORGE WASHINGTON CELEBRATED HIS BIRTHDAY HERE!!! Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site, in Newburgh, is honoring the occasion for the twenty-ninth year in a row with a three-day party. On Saturday, February 13th, Sunday, February 14th and Monday, February 15th, from 12:00 until 4:30 PM, Continental Army re-enactors, live music, topical talks and special guest, General George Washington will be the order of the day. Admission is by donation.
All three days, General George Washington, portrayed by John Koopman, will cut his birthday cake as visitors sing “Happy Birthday.” Each day, Mr. Koopman will hold a question and answer session after his brief talk about Washington’s role as Commander-in-Chief. A fun and informative presidential trivia quiz will also be given every day.
Visit the Marketplace, in the Museum, where you will find souvenirs, books, and a make-and-take craft for children. Across the lawn is the Hasbrouck house, General Washington’s headquarters, where you will be transported back in time to the 18th Century by costumed interpreters and the authenticity of the surroundings.
On Saturday, February 13th, the 5th New York will present a history of their unit and uniforms in the Museum. A drill outside and a troop inspection by General Washington will follow. The talented musical duo of Erik Lichak and Melanie Zanakis will perform 18th Century selections in the historic headquarters. Enjoy birthday cake donated by Mary’s Cheesecake Headquarters, Newburgh.
Sunday, February 14th, in the Museum, Lamb’s Artillery will talk about their duties, followed by a cannon demonstration outside. Richard Lahey, of the Mid-Hudson Drivers Association, will speak about “Sleighs of the Hudson Valley” and display a cutter and sleighing equipment. Thaddeus MacGregor, 19th Century song stylist, will play and sing in the headquarters. The birthday cake will be donated by Alexis Diner, Newburgh.
Monday, February 15th, the Continental Army, represented by re-enactors, will muster in front of the General’s headquarters. In the Museum, Historic Interpreter Johanna Porr will offer a presentation on “The Struggle for Final Victory.” Thaddeus MacGregor will continue to provide musical entertainment throughout the day. The birthday cake will be donated by Hannaford’s Supermarket, in New Windsor.
Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site is a registered national historic landmark. It is located at the corner of Liberty and Washington Streets within the city of Newburgh’s East End Historic District. The site is one of 35 historic sites within the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and is one of 24 facilities administered by the Palisades Interstate Park Commission in New York and New Jersey. For further information contact: (845) 562-1195. For more information about New York State Parks, please visit our website at www.nysparks. com.