Re-Enactors Wanted for Battle of Brooklyn Event

Fire Your Weapons in New York City

Sunday, August 24, 2008

The largest annual commemoration of the American Revolution takes place in -- of all places -- New York City, with Battle Week events throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn marking the Battle of Brooklyn, the largest engagement of the war by the number of troops engaged.

The re-enactment held during the closing ceremony -- this year on Sunday, Aug. 24 -- provides a rare opportunity to fire black powder weapons within New York City.

Green-Wood Cemetery is a magnificent Victorian gem that protects a large portion of the original battlefield from the bustle of Brooklyn.

Also called the Battle of Long Island, the contest was the first battle fought by the United States after the Declaration of Independence.

While Boston and Philadelphia are more closely associated with the War of Independence, New York has a very rich history of sacrifice to the American cause. (Details at www.nyfreedom.com.) Approximately three-fourths of the Patriots who died at the hands of the British died in New York, largely because of the many prisons and prison ships.

In an important book, "The Battle for New York," Barnet Schecter makes the point that while the Americans could not hold the extensive port against the world's greatest maritime power, the British did not have the resources to both hold the city and maintain a permanent foothold elsewhere in the colonies.

The battle is particularly remembered for the bravery of the Maryland 400, who stood off the entire British Army in multiple attacks on the Old Stone House, allowing the main American force to successfully retreat to Brooklyn Heights. Maryland derives its nickname of "The Old Line State" from this heroic action.

The re-enactment will begin at 12:30 p.m. at Green-Wood Cemetery, 500 25th St., Brooklyn. Overnight camping can be arranged by appointment. Lunch will be served after the event.

For more information, visit www.nyfreedom.com/battle.htm, email erickramer@cableone.net or call 201 230-3457. For a complete listing of Battle Week events, visit www.theoldstonehouse.org or www.nyfreedom.com.

Battle Week is coordinated by the Old Stone House of Brooklyn located in J.J Byrne Park, 5th Ave
at 3rd St. P. O. Box 150613, Brooklyn, NY 11215 (718) 768-3195
www.theoldstonehouse.org