Recognizing patriots of American Revolution
To the Editor,
The Richfield Historical Society, in partnership with various local organizations, is planning to celebrate the United States’ upcoming 250th Semiquincentennial anniversary of independence and the founding of our nation in 1776.
I appreciate my own family’s participation in the American Revolution. My great grandfather (x4) Josiah Brown, Sr. was a private who served in Colonel Henry Ludington’s New York militia. This regiment, made up of neighbors who were mostly farmers, hunters and tradesmen, partnered to protect the Hudson Highlands of New York and Connecticut from the invading British troops and loyalist sympathizers. Josiah, and some of his teenage sons, participated in battles throughout the revolution.
Women and teenage children were often asked to bear arms to help the American cause. Colonel Ludington’s daughter, Sybil, at just 16 years old became known as the female Paul Revere for her 40-mile midnight ride to notify the minutemen of her father’s regiment of approaching troops. Her ride allowed Colonel Ludington’s men to assemble and march toward Danbury, Connecticut, to try to stop the British from burning American supplies and homes of known patriots.
This is just one story of the many brave Americans who helped us achieve our independence. We hope that through the Richfield Historical Society’s awareness campaigns, events, and parade, that we can all celebrate our bond as neighbors and for being part of this great nation.
Visit the Richfield Historical Society website, richfieldohiohistoricalsociety.org, for updates about the 250th Semiquincentennial celebration.
Dwayne GentnerAlger Road