In honor of George Washington and to benefit Fraunces Tavern Museum
The George Washington Birthday Ball, hosted by Sons of the Revolution in the State of New York, is held each year to honor George Washington and to benefit Fraunces Tavern® Museum.
Presented by the Saint Andrew’s Society of the State of New York
Scotland profoundly influenced Revolutionary America. Core tendencies in Scottish culture-such as common sense philosophy, the principle of popular consent, the appeal of personal autonomy, and the virtues of political moderation-had crucial reverberations across the Atlantic. This lecture will explore the ways in which Scotland shaped and informed the Declaration of Independence. We will begin by discussing the signers of the Declaration who were either Scottish-born or of Scottish (and Scots Irish) descent. Next, we will examine other prominent Scots active during that era (including one New Yorker who has been less known that he should be) who profoundly influenced American life, along with their varying reputations among the American people. Finally, we will analyze the intellectual role of the Scottish Enlightenment in forming the ideas expressed by Thomas Jefferson in the Declaration.
The year 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the nation’s founding. Join historian Robert Watson for this talk exploring some of the fun and intriguing stories behind the stories as well as common myths and misconceptions about both remarkable events.*
Join this interactive craft cocktail class hosted by pop historian, comedian and certified mixologist, Jacey Powers. This unique event combines one-part humor, one-part history and shakes them up for a perfectly blended celebration of fascinating women in history, worthy of raising a glass to.
As we approach America's 250th birthday, we'll look at the story behind our nation's most enduring symbol: the United States Flag. We've all heard the story of Betsy Ross, but is it fact or an American fable? Together we'll untangle the tale and shake up a historic cocktail inspired by the recipes and drinking culture of colonial America. This high-energy happy hour will illuminate the way we tell women's stories with every guest learning a little and laughing a lot.*
In the final months of 1775, Thomas Paine, a recent immigrant from England wrote "Common Sense," the most influential pamphlet of the era. He convinced reluctant Americans to declare themselves independent. Paine then volunteered with the Pennsylvania militia and marched to war as a private. He transferred to the Continental Army and stayed on the front lines of the war during 1776. He accompanied George Washington’s army on their harrowing retreat across New Jersey. He then wrote "The American Crisis," the most stirring rallying cry in American history. The new pamphlet boosted morale just as Washington was deciding to cross the Delaware River and counterattack the enemy at Trenton.
In later years, Paine’s stature was diminished because of his enthusiasm for the French Revolution and his publication of a tract defending his deist faith. His reputation never recovered, but he remains for many a towering figure in early American history and one of the most insightful and large-hearted of the founders.
Join Jack Kelly, author of Tom Paine's War: The Words That Rallied a Nation and the Founder for Our Time, for this lecture exploring the life and work of Thomas Paine.*
On April 27, 2026, Sons of the Revolution℠ in the State of New York, Inc. invite you to gather with us to commemorate the 251st Anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, which took place on April 19, 1775. At this commemoration, we will also honor the winner of the 2026 Fraunces Tavern Museum Book Award.
The Fraunces Tavern Museum Book Award is presented annually to the author of the best newly published work on the American Revolutionary War that combines original scholarship, insight, and good writing. This year's winner is The Fate of the Day: The War for America, Fort Ticonderoga to Charleston, 1777-1780 by Rick Atkinson*.
Come in and warm up from the cold with a Colonial style mulled wine as we discuss and celebrate the sequential art (comic book) of George Washington.
Join author Renee Witterstaetter* as she presents on her book, Cloaked Crusader: George Washington in Comics and Pop Culture, looking at the visage of Washington in everything from tavern signs to comic books to movies, over the past 250 years.
This lively presentation will be preceded by a wine tasting with offerings from Brotherhood Winery out of Washingtonville, New York, fittingly enough.
To round out the evening, we will also have caricature artist Edward Murr on hand to make you an art creation yourself.
Don’t miss this entertaining evening with Renee and Ed, where the “Oldest Winery in the US” is featured at the oldest building in Manhattan and raise a glass to Washington in Comics and Pop Culture for the nation’s 250th!
Our guest speaker will be Kevin Draper, historian and co-founder of New York Historical Tours, who will speak on the subject of the American Revolution in the greater New York region in 1776. This 250th lecture is featured in coordination with our special exhibit commemorating the semiquincentennial, Path to Liberty: The Emergence of a Nation.
Kevin Draper is a sought-after New York City Historian and Co-Founder of New York Historical Tours. An impassioned native New Yorker, Kevin actively brings to life the incredible and inspiring stories that have made New York the most exciting and influential city in the world. For over fifteen years Kevin has provided top-rated first class tours and New York City experiences to locals and visitors from all over the globe.
His dynamic knowledge, professionalism and gift for storytelling have awarded him consistent five-star reviews, Trip Advisors Certificate of Excellence year after year and won the accolades of the most discriminating clientele. Kevin has led historical talks and lectures for top universities and Fortune 500 companies and is a respected historical consultant for major media and publications including CBS, ABC, Bloomberg, The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal.
We thank our event sponsors:
Michael P. Coneys
William S. Eakins
Peter C. Hein
Laura B. Matson
Peter J. W. Sherwin
Tri-Spy Tours
Sons of the Revolution in the State of New York, Inc. and its Fraunces Tavern Museum are joining the New York City Bar Association Legal History Committee to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the publication of Thomas Paine’s Common Sense. At this event, members of the New York City Bar Legal History Committee will orate selected readings from the text of Thomas Paine's book in person at the Museum.
Join us for a virtual interview conversation with John Ferling, author of Shots Heard Round the World: America, Britain, and Europe in the Revolutionary War. How can the American Revolution be understood as a global war? How were the war’s effects felt at home and abroad? We will discuss the subjects of Ferling’s most recent book and the broader scope of the Revolutionary War, with an audience Q&A to follow.
On December 4, 1783, George Washington and his officers met at Fraunces Tavern to say an emotional farewell. Join us in the room where it happened for a special reenactment and opportunity to converse with Washington himself before he returns to Mount Vernon!
On November 13, 2025, at 6:30 PM, the Museum will host a preview reception for our newest exhibition in the Adeline Moses Loeb Gallery, Path to Liberty: Orders, Discipline and Daily Life. This exhibition includes orderly books that detail how officers used daily orders to train, manage, and discipline soldiers, turning ordinary colonists into a trained force capable of challenging the world’s most powerful army. Featured in the exhibition is the book used by Colonel Benjamin Tallmadge (best known for his leadership of the Culper Spy Ring during the American Revolutionary War) while stationed in New York in the summer of 1776.
The reception, which will include wine, beer and hors d'oeuvres, will include brief remarks around 7:00 PM from special guests and the exhibition's curators, who will be available to answer questions from attendees about the entire Path to Liberty series throughout the evening.
Don’t miss your chance to experience history in a whole new light!
Our exclusive Living History After Dark event transforms the museum into a magical, candlelit adventure, where every shadow holds a story and every hallway echoes with the secrets of the Revolutionary era. Meet passionate costumed interpreters, discover rare artifacts unveiled just for this night, and immerse yourself in tales that will spark your imagination. Secure your ticket now and enjoy a special themed goody bag as a keepsake from a night you’ll never forget!
Doors open at 5:30pm, Doors close at 6:30pm.
Fun for all ages! Costumes encouraged, not required!
Join licensed tour guide Bruce Racond to visit the New York City that George Washington would have known from 1776 to 1790! This walking tour explores the people and places of NYC during the Revolutionary War and Washington’s first term as president, including the important contributions of women and African Americans.
Join licensed tour guide Bruce Racond to visit the New York City that George Washington would have known from 1776 to 1790! This walking tour explores the people and places of NYC during the Revolutionary War and Washington’s first term as president, including the important contributions of women and African Americans.
Join Anne and Ridley Enslow for Celebrate 250: Music of the American Revolution,a concert of lively 18th-century songs about the struggle for American independence. The show will include “liberty songs,” humorous ballads lampooning the British troops, and songs celebrating American victories, plus drinking songs and a dance tune or two. There will even be a song by a signer of the Declaration of Independence about the so-called Battle of the Kegs.
As always, Anne and Ridley perform in 18th-century dress and on instruments of the period—hammered dulcimer and a 1776 violin. They will have their little dancing man called a limberjack, who pleases audience members from 9 to 90! Before each song Anne will provide an interesting and entertaining introduction to the piece, setting the context in American history.
This program was created for the celebration of the U.S. Semiquincentennial, which is commemorated in our special 250th exhibition: Path to Liberty: The Emergence of a Nation.
Join author Michael Cecere for a lecture in our special 250th series, covering important events in 1775 across all of the thirteen colonies, with a special emphasis on the Middle Colonies and New York.*
Join licensed tour guide Bruce Racond to uncover Central Park’s hidden Revolutionary War history! This walking tour explores some of Central Park’s most beautiful but least-known areas—including the grounds of historic forts and other sites from the war. You’ll encounter great vistas, hear captivating stories, and see vivid images and maps transporting you back to the 18th century as you experience the history of the land that would become Central Park.
Join licensed tour guide Bruce Racond to uncover Central Park’s hidden Revolutionary War history! This walking tour explores some of Central Park’s most beautiful but least-known areas—including the grounds of historic forts and other sites from the war. You’ll encounter great vistas, hear captivating stories, and see vivid images and maps transporting you back to the 18th century as you experience the history of the land that would become Central Park.
The HMS Asia shelling of lower Manhattan, which included a cannonball through the roof of Fraunces Tavern, began the evening of August 23, 1775, and continued into the early morning of August 24, 1775. This commemorative event will include a social reception with hors d'oeuvres and drinks together with brief remarks, followed by an optional dinner (starting at 7:30 pm). Attendees at the reception can view the first installment of our recently opened 250th anniversary special exhibition Path to Liberty: The Emergence of a Nation (which includes recognition of the HMS Asia shelling event).
We warmly invite you to join us for a delightful Story Hour designed especially for young children!
This engaging program features captivating tales and illustrations that will transport little ones back to colonial America, giving them a glimpse into the daily lives of children from that era. Our interactive storytelling experience encourages imagination, supports early literacy development, and offers a fun and educational outing for toddlers and early elementary-age children. It also provides a wonderful opportunity for parents and caregivers to share in the joy of reading and connect through cherished stories. We look forward to seeing you there!
Drop in from 1:00-2:00pm to hear historical tales with museum educators.
FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
Spies, espionage, and intelligence operations during the American Revolution have long captured the public's imagination, thanks in part to popular books and television series. While these dramatizations highlight a captivating aspect of the Revolutionary War, they often blur the line between fact and fiction. Join historian Charles Dewey to uncover the real stories of the men and women—soldiers and civilians alike—who risked or sacrificed their lives for the cause.*
Discover the beauty that can flourish within a vibrant colonial city by joining us for an engaging workshop focused on crafting paper carnations. This hands-on experience is designed to be both informative and enjoyable for participants of all ages. As you create these delicate flowers, you will gain insight into the significance of floral arrangements in colonial décor and daily life. This workshop provides a unique opportunity to explore your artistic abilities, connect with historical contexts, and take home a thoughtfully handmade keepsake. We invite you to join us for a fulfilling experience that merges creativity with history.
Drop in any time from 12:30-2:30pm to try your hand at this all-ages activity!
FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
We warmly invite you to join us for a delightful Story Hour designed especially for young children!
This engaging program features captivating tales and illustrations that will transport little ones back to colonial America, giving them a glimpse into the daily lives of children from that era. Our interactive storytelling experience encourages imagination, supports early literacy development, and offers a fun and educational outing for toddlers and early elementary-age children. It also provides a wonderful opportunity for parents and caregivers to share in the joy of reading and connect through cherished stories. We look forward to seeing you there!
Drop in from 1:00-2:00pm to hear historical tales with museum educators.
FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
Explore the art of storytelling through quilting! Join us at the Fraunces Tavern Museum for a special hands-on program where we’ll decorate quilt blocks while learning about Freedom Quilts and their role during the American Revolution.
Discover how quilts were more than just blankets — they were symbols of resistance, freedom, and communication. We’ll discuss the meanings behind different quilt patterns and their connections to the fight for independence.
Drop in any time from 12:30-2:30pm to try your hand at this all-ages activity!
FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
Join us for an immersive experience at Tavern Game Day, where we invite you to step back into the vibrant atmosphere of an 18th-century tavern! Engage in an afternoon filled with laughter, camaraderie, and timeless classic games. This family-friendly event features traditional colonial pastimes such as Nine Men’s Morris and Shut the Box—recreations that have captivated early Americans for generations.
Tavern Game Day offers an excellent opportunity to disconnect from modern distractions, foster connections with others, and enjoy a spirit of friendly competition. Whether you possess a keen interest in history or are simply looking to explore something new, we are confident you will leave with joyful memories and perhaps discover a new favorite game.
Drop in any time from 12:30-3:00pm to try your hand at this all-ages activity!
FREE WITH MUSEUM ADMISSION
Join us for an afternoon of special programming exploring 19th century New York! Hear from speakers on topics including the Marquis de Lafayette's return to America early in the century, immigration to New York, and the Gilded Age as we join cultureNOW's IT HAPPENED HERE program to celebrate the 400th Anniversary of the founding of New York.
Celebrate Independence Day at Fraunces Tavern Museum with $1 admission all day long!
Starting at 1:30pm, you can also attend an afternoon of talks as a part of the Lower Manhattan Historical Association’s It Happened Here programming.
The July 4 Symposium features a special highlight of Fraunces Tavern Museum history, including insights on our newest special exhibition, Path to Liberty: The Emergence of a Nation, and other speakers on important figures and events of the 18th century.
Join us for the first day of the Lower Manhattan Historical Association’s It Happened Here programming! Beginning at 2:00pm, you the afternoon of talks will feature speakers on the early history of New York City
Join Sons of the Revolution in the State of New York, Inc. to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Bunker Hill with a lecture by Dr. Samuel A. Forman, author of Dr. Joseph Warren -The Boston Tea Party, Bunker Hill, and the Birth of American Liberty, followed by an optional dinner. Part of our special Liberty 250 events.
Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States on June 14, 1777 by resolution of the Second Continental Congress. While not a federal holiday, this special day is observed across the nation, from small towns to big cities, often with parades. Since 1916, Sons of the Revolution in the State of New York, Inc. (SRNY) has hosted the Flag Day Parade, Celebration, and Open House here in New York City.
Our 2025 Flag Day Parade will kick off at noon on Friday, June 13 from City Hall Park, follows down Broadway, and ends at the grandstand in front of Fraunces Tavern at about 12:30pm. The Ceremony includes the student Essay Contest winners reading their essays on “What the American Flag Means to Me” and more!
In-person tickets are sold out, but you can still join us on Zoom!
Join this interactive craft cocktail class hosted by pop historian, comedian and certified mixologist, Jacey Powers. This unique event combines one-part humor, one-part history and shakes them up for a perfectly blended celebration of fascinating women in history, worthy of raising a glass to.
From women on the battlefield, to nurses at camps; from authors inspiring the masses to ladies posing as spies--many of the unsung heroes of the American Revolution wore corsets rather than tricorne hats. The stories of Phyllis Wheatley, Mercy Otis Warren, Margaret Cochran Corbin, Mammy Kate and more will unfold during our high-energy happy hour. We'll be mixing up a contemporary take on Martha Washington's famous Revolutionary Rum Punch, while learning about the drinking culture of colonial Americans.*
Join author Kostya Kennedy for this lecture exploring the dramatic events of April 18 and 19, 1775—the night of Paul Revere’s famous ride. With new insights from archives, family documents, and contemporary accounts, discover how the legendary ride is far more complex than it is usually portrayed.*
Walking Tour Led by Bruce Racond*
American history comes alive on the streets where it happened in historic locations critical to the lives and partnership of Alexander Hamilton and George Washington! Relive the first reading of the Declaration of Independence and the subsequent revolt, honor the fallen American troops in the Battle of Brooklyn, celebrate the Constitution’s ratification, and applaud Hamilton's achievement of the Compromise of 1790. Stand at the site of Washington's momentous inauguration, dig into the history of the infamous duel between Hamilton and Aaron Burr, pay your respects at the final resting place of the Hamiltons, and much more. This is an immersive tour for lovers of United States’ history and the musical Hamilton!
On April 21, 2025, Sons of the Revolution℠ in the State of New York, Inc. invite you to gather with us to commemorate the 250th Anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, which took place on April 19, 1775. At this commemoration, we will also honor the winner of the 2025 Fraunces Tavern Museum Book Award and present our new exhibition, Path to Liberty: The Emergence of a Nation, officially opening to the public the following day.
Walking Tour Led by Bruce Racond*
American history comes alive on the streets where it happened in historic locations critical to the lives and partnership of Alexander Hamilton and George Washington! Relive the first reading of the Declaration of Independence and the subsequent revolt, honor the fallen American troops in the Battle of Brooklyn, celebrate the Constitution’s ratification, and applaud Hamilton's achievement of the Compromise of 1790. Stand at the site of Washington's momentous inauguration, dig into the history of the infamous duel between Hamilton and Aaron Burr, pay your respects at the final resting place of the Hamiltons, and much more. This is an immersive tour for lovers of United States’ history and the musical Hamilton!
The Museum is wheelchair accessible.
*The views of the speakers are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of
Sons of the Revolution℠ in the State of New York, Inc. or its Fraunces Tavern® Museum
Fraunces Tavern® Museum is owned and operated by, and FRAUNCES TAVERN® and and Liberty 250® are registered service marks of,
Sons of the Revolution℠ in the State of New York, Inc., a Section 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation
instituted in 1876 and incorporated in 1884.
Copyright © 2026 SRNY, Inc. All rights reserved.
![The Battle of Bunker Hill, a Seismic Early Revolutionary War Conflict and Dr. Joseph Warren, a Compelling Personality from the Founding Era [Liberty 250 Event]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/57444aa540261d8f099759f9/aec4218d-9928-47cf-9560-eed4b45d10d0/Dr+Joseph+Warren.jpg)
