AUGUST 30, 2018 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • PAGE C1 Come celebrate 's Revolutionary story

An invitation to the Times Beacon Record 4th annual Culper Spy Day News Media© Inside: Event Guide and Map PAGE C2 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • AUGUST 30, 2018 VISIONS OF CULPER SPY DAY 2017

Photos by Greg Catalano AUGUST 30, 2018 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • PAGE C3 CULPER SPY DAY Fourth annual Culper Spy Day celebrates our Revolutionary story BY HEIDI SUTTON One of the more interesting features of the home are the original late-18th-centu- ry hand-painted floral wall frescoes on the ‘Lucky is the child who listens to a story walls of the Jayne Parlor. Commissioned by from an elder and treasures it for years.’ William Jayne II, they were rediscovered — Barbara Russell, underneath wallpaper by Sherwood in 1916 Town of Brookhaven Historian who had them restored by well-known artist argo Arceri first heard about George Emil Gruppé. “One small panel was left un- Washington’s Setauket spies from touched so that you can see how it’s weath- M her Strong’s Neck neighbor and ered through the years,” St. George pointed local historian, Kate W. Strong, in the early out during a recent tour. 1970s. Arceri lights up when talking about The home contains artifacts that specif- her favorite spy, Anna Smith Strong. ically relate to the , in- “Kate W. Strong, Anna Smith Strong’s cluding paneling on the fireplace wall and great-great-granddaughter, originally told me shutters on a bar in the Tap Room that came about the Culper Spy Ring when I used to visit from the Tallmadge House of Setauket, be- her with my neighbor and Strong descendant lieved to be the birthplace of Colonel Benja- Raymond Brewster Strong III. One of her sto- min Tallmadge, a founding member of the spy ries was about Nancy (Anna Smith Strong’s ring who would become ’s nickname) and her magic clothesline. My love chief intelligence officer. of history grew from there,” she said. As a special treat, Big Bill the Tory, portrayed Five years ago Arceri approached the by David Burt, will make a guest appearance Three Village Historical Society’s President during each tour and share his views on the Steve Hintze and the board about conduct- Photo by Darren St. George, Preservation Long Island Culper Spy Ring and the noble intentions of ing walking, biking and kayaking tours while Meet Big Bill the Tory at the Sherwood-Jayne Farm in East Setauket on Culper Spy Day and learn King George III. “He’ll explain what life has sharing her knowledge of George Washing- the TRUTH about George Washington’s pesky band of renegade spies! been like for him as a Loyalist — the other side ton’s Long Island intelligence during the After a successful three-year run, the However, when the Revolutionary War of the story that we’re really not hearing too American Revolution. fourth annual Culper Spy Day will be held on broke out, Jayne chose to remain a Loyalist much of,” explained St. George. Today, Arceri runs Tri-Spy Tours in the Saturday, Sept. 15 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. offer- and a steadfast supporter of the crown. Parking will be in the field next to the Three Village area, which follows in the actu- ing self-guided tours of 24 locations includ- “William Jayne II was a known Tory in property and visitors are asked to line up at al footsteps of the Culper Spy Ring. “I wanted ing eight new spots for the ultimate Culper the neighborhood,” said St. George. “Long the back door for the tour, which will be on- to target that 20- to 60-year-old active per- Spy Day experience. “The more the merrier,” Island was occupied by many Tories, many going from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Apple cider and son,” she said. “I have to thank AMC’s minise- laughs Arceri. people still supported the king and didn’t donuts will be available for purchase. ries “TURN” because 80 percent of the people One new event you won’t want to miss is want to upset the status quo, but as the war Arceri’s favorite part of the day is “seeing all who sign up for the tour do so because of that an interactive tour at the Sherwood-Jayne concluded, most Torys moved to Canada or these different organizations coming togeth- show,” she laughs. Farm in East Setauket where you’ll experi- or they turned their back on the er as a whole. It really is our Revolutionary It was during one of those tours that Arceri ence a different spin on George Washington’s king entirely, but Jayne doesn’t. He still stays story,” she said. “Everywhere you turn in the came up with the idea of having a Culper Spy Culper Spy Ring. Maintained by Preservation a Tory, he has his reputation and still thrives Three Villages you are looking at an artifact, Day, a day to honor the members of Long Long Island, the property boasts a 1700s salt- in the community,” eventually acquiring the and as the historical society believes, the com- Island’s brave Patriot spy ring who helped box home, apple orchard, barn, an ice house, nickname Big Bill the Tory. munity is our museum and that I would really change the course of history and helped corn crib, a pasture and nature trail. When Jayne passed away, the home re- love to put on the forefront of people’s minds.” Washington win the Revolutionary War. According to Darren St. George, education mained in the family until it was sold in Admission is $25 adults, $5 children ages 6 “Visiting places like the Brewster House, and public programs director at Preservation 1908 to Preservation Long Island’s founder, to 12 and may be purchased in advance at the which is owned by The Ward Melville Heritage Long Island, the farm was originally owned Howard C. Sherwood, who used the home to Three Village Historical Society (TVHS), 93 Organization, the grave site of genre artist by the Jayne family. showcase his many antiques. It was placed North Country Road, Setauket, by calling 631- William Sidney Mount at the Setauket Presby- “The property was purchased by Mathias on the National Register of Historic Places 751-3730 or by visiting www.tvhs.org. Veter- terian Church cemetery (whose paintings are Jayne in 1730 [who built a lean-to saltbox in 2009. ans and children under the age of 6 are free. at The Long Island Museum) and the Country dwelling] which is eventually passed down During Culper Spy Day, ticketholders will Tickets may be picked up at the TVHS House, which every one of the spies visited,” to William Jayne II in 1768 who expands the be able to take part in a 20-minute guided from Sept. 11 to 15. At that time, participants Arceri thought “there has to be a day designat- house after his second marriage,” he said, tour of the first floor of the home, specifical- will receive a bracelet and a copy of the Culp- ed to celebrating all these organizations in the continuing, “[William] was involved with lo- ly the Jayne Parlor (which was added after er Spy Day map with all event listings and in- Three Village and surrounding areas; where cal government, he was a constable, so he had the Revolutionary War), the Sherwood Living clude access to 24 Culper Spy Ring locations. each of us can give our little piece of the story some stature and clout in the community and Room (which was the original 1730 home) If available, tickets on the day of the event and that’s how Culper Spy Day developed.” it was nice to have a more substantial home.” and the Tap Room (kitchen/dining room). may be purchased at the historical society.

Participating organizations: Library, Long Island Collection; Emma S. Clark Memorial Li- Preservation Long Island; Raynham Hall Museum; Rock The fourth annual Culper Spy Day is presented by Tri-Spy brary; Fairfield Historical Society, Fairfield Museum & Histo- Hall Museum; Setauket Elementary School; Setauket Harbor Tours, the Three Village Historical Society, the Long Island ry Center; Frank Melville Memorial Park; ® Task Force; Setauket Neighborhood House; Setauket Presby- Museum and The Ward Melville Heritage Organization in Museum; Gallery North; History Close at Hand; Huntington terian Church; Sherwood-Jayne Farm; Stirring Up History; collaboration with the District of the Historical Society; Huntington Militia; Joseph Lloyd Man- Stony Brook University Libraries, Special Collections; Stony Boy Scouts; Campus Bicycle; Caroline Church of Brookhav- or House; Ketcham Inn Foundation; Northport Historical Brookside Bed and Bike Inn; Three Village Community Trust; en; Country House Restaurant; Custom House; Discover Long Society; Old Methodist Church; Paumanok Tours; Port Jef- The Three Village Inn; Times Beacon Record News Media; Island; Drowned Meadow Cottage Museum; East Hampton ferson Chamber of Commerce; Port Jefferson Free Library; and the Underhill Society of America Inc. PAGE C4 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • AUGUST 30, 2018 CULPER SPY DAY Let’s take a walk through history Visit Revolutionary War spy locations on Culper Spy Day BY BEVERLY C. TYLER

It happened in Setauket! A clandestine op- eration to provide General Washington with in- formation on the activity of the British on Long Island and in existed in Setauket during the Revolutionary War. You too can ex- Image from Beverly Tyler SORUHWKHVLWHVWKDW¿JXUHGLQWKHRSHUDWLRQRI Mural by Vance Locke, 1951, depicts the Culper Spy Ring, as it was known. , left, bringing secret On Saturday, Sept. 15, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., messages to . many historic locations in the Three Villages and HISTORY CLOSE AT HAND the surrounding areas dating as far back as 1655 BY BEVERLY C. TYLER will open their doors to the public as we cele- 2. THOMPSON HOUSE, 91 North Country 4. FRANK MELVILLE MEMORIAL brate the fourth annual Culper Spy Day — Our 5RDG 6HWDXNHW %XLOW LQ  WKLV ¿YHURRP PARK/GRIST MILL, 1 Old Field Road, Se- What was the situation on Long Island Revolutionary Story, offering docent-led tours, VDOWER[ IDUPKRXVH ZDV KRPH WR ¿YH JHQHUD- WDXNHW:DONSDVWWKHSRVWRI¿FHLQWRWKHSDUN during the Revolutionary War? Why do we exhibitions, demonstrations, children’s activities tions of the Thompson family. According to his until you come to the 1937 reproduction of the know so little about the Setauket-based and more. Start at whichever location you like diaries, Dr. Samuel Thompson treated members Setauket Grist Mill. Here you will hear from Culper Spy Ring? Who were they? What did and go at your own pace. of the Culper Spy Ring, including Abraham docents the story of the construction of the park they accomplish? Well! The Setauket spies Ticket holders will be entitled to admission Woodhull and Austin Roe. Samuel and his fa- and the history of the grist mills that operat- were just commonplace men and women to the following locations and events: ther Jonathan Thompson were members of the ed in Setauket from the 1660s until the 1930s, who grew up in a small farming community Colonial Militia in 1775. After the British oc- grinding the wheat, corn and other grains of Se- on the North Shore of Long Island — ordi- cupation of Long Island, Samuel, Jonathan and tauket farmers. 631-689-6146. nary people who did extraordinary things. their families became refugees in Connecticut. ABRAHAM WOODHULL, a descendant Costumed docents will guide visitors through of Richard Woodhull, an early Brookhaven the house discussing the architecture and fasci- Town leader and magistrate, was born on his nating history of the family including Thomp- family’s farm in Setauket, overlooking Little son’s allegiance to the Patriot cause. Explore Bay, in 1750. He was a farmer by occupation. the question of whether it could be possible that Probably because of his elder brother Rich- Thompson was a spy, and role-play being a pa- ard’s death at the early age of 32, Abraham tient of Thompson’s to learn of the treatments inherited the family home (circa 1690) and he would give, including herbs and bloodletting. farm. The land had been in the family since 631-751-2244. Richard Woodhull came to Setauket, some- 1. THREE VILLAGE HISTORICAL SOCIETY, time between 1655 and 1657. 93 North Country Road, Setauket. Located in From the beginning of the Setauket the circa 1800 Bayles-Swezey house. Here you spies in 1778, Woodhull was in charge of can purchase tickets for Culper Spy Day and ob- day-to-day operations. His code name tain a copy of the story of the Culper Spy Ring. was Samuel Culper and the spy operation Take part in an invisible ink project, meet came to be known as the . Anna Strong and her famous clothesline, attend 5. SETAUKET NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE, Woodhull was referred to as Samuel Culp- a book signing by award-winning children’s 95 Main Street, Setauket. The original part of the er Sr. after he recruited , book author, Selene Castrovilla, and enjoy Co- house, where the central chimney is located, was who became known as Culper Jr. Not only lonial music presented by the Three Village built in the early 1700s. In 1820 it was moved did Woodhull direct field activities, but Chamber Players from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Grab to its present location from its original site on he also risked his life countless times by a snack or lunch at the Tavern on the Field next Setauket (Conscience) Bay by Dr. John Elder- personally collecting information in New door and visit the society’s gift shop. kin. After the death of Elderkin in 1836, his son, York and on western Long Island. The Huntington Militia will be encamped out John, moved from New York City and took up Woodhull was responsible for evaluat- RQWKH¿HOGQH[WGRRUZLWK&RORQLDOFRRNLQJDQG 3. THE STUDIO AT GALLERY NORTH, residence in the old home. He added the sections ing the reports received from all sources, camp life demonstrations throughout the day. 90 North Country Road, Setauket. Originally a to the right and left of the original house some- determining what was to go forward to one-room Mobil gas station built in 1935, the time around 1835. The house then became Ye Washington’s headquarters and seeing The staff of Raynham Hall Museum in Oyster Bay will be on hand to portray Robert Townsend building was expanded in the 1970s. Today it Old Elderkin Inn. Besides running the inn, John that the dispatches were carried across the continued his drug business, which began in the Sound by Caleb Brewster. His health was (Samuel Culper Jr.), one of George Washing- functions as the Studio at Gallery North, a green FLW\KDGDJHQHUDOVWRUHSRVWRI¿FHEDQNDQGD poor, partly caused by stress as he lived in ton’s most important spies during the Revolu- work space that provides printmaking, painting, Franklin Library in the building. constant fear of discovery. tionary War, and his wife, Sally Townsend. Your drawing and other collaborative classes and pro- After the war, Woodhull became the first Culper Spy Day 2018 ticket also grants you ac- grams for artists of all ages and abilities. Attend During the 1860s, the inn served as a home judge of Suffolk County. He died Jan. 23, cess to the Raynham Hall Museum the entire the Three Village Historical Society’s TURN for a stage coach line that ran between Se- 1826, and his grave in the Setauket Presby- weekend. See more on page C11. memorabilia auction and sale at Gallery North’s tauket and the Lakeland Railroad Depot near terian Church graveyard was marked by the Walk across the street to Gallery North’s Studio from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and don’t miss the Ronkonkoma before the Long Island Railroad Mayflower Chapter of the Daughters of the Studio to view the historical society’s TURN live auction at 2 p.m. Items to be auctioned off line was built on the North Shore. American Revolution in 1936. memorabilia auction and sale from 11 a.m. to 3 include a dragoon coat and musket from AMC’s John Elderkin’s wife Renelcha was a wom- p.m. with a live auction at 2 p.m. (see listing #3). television series “TURN: Washington’s Spies.” DQ RI JUHDW UH¿QHPHQW HQHUJ\ DQG DPELWLRQ CULPER SPIES continued on page C5 631-751-3730. 631-751-2676. DQGWKHLQQZDVQRWHGIRULWVKRVSLWDOLW\DQG¿QH AUGUST 30, 2018 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • PAGE C5 food. Many famous people made this their stop- and a Colonial extension of the Church of En- Church minister, Benjamin Tallmadge, and ping place. Robert Bonner of the New York Led- gland. During Long Island’s more than seven General Washington’s intelligence chief. CULPER SPIES ger was a frequent visitor and many residents years of occupation, American Loyalists, Brit- Tallmadge was responsible for the design Continued from page C4 remembered his famous trotting horses, Dexter LVK RI¿FHUV DQG VROGLHUV ZRUVKLSHG KHUH7KH and implementation of the Setauket-based and Goldsmith Maid. graveyard contains the remains of seven Patriot Culper Spy Ring that provided Washington Docents on hand to discuss the history of the soldiers as well as soldiers from World War I with complete and accurate details on British home that dates back to the early 1700s. Steve Bo- and II. Enter the church for a guided tour and and Loyalist activities in New York City and erner and Frank Sorrentino of the East Hampton don’t miss the church’s History Center featur- on Long Island. Library Long Island Collection and the Underhill ing an exhibit on the church and the communi- Members of the Setauket Harbor Task Society of America Inc., will be on hand discuss- ty in the 1800s on the lower level of the Parish Force will be stationed here to discuss the ing their ongoing Culper/American Revolution- House. 631-941-4245. changes of water quality over the years and ary War in New York project. (See more on page the challenges Caleb Brewster would have C11) Visit the Culper Spy Day information booth met on the Long Island Sound also known as on site to help plan your day. 631-751-6208. the Devil’s Belt. Meet Margo Arceri of Tri-Spy Tours here at 11 a.m. or 1 p.m. for an abbreviated walk- ing tour of the historic district. Representatives from Paumanok Tours will be on hand to discuss marine life in our bays and harbors as well as the route Caleb Sketch by Col. John Trumbull Brewster would have taken to meet Abraham Benjamin Tallmadge, c. 1781, in his dragoon Woodhull and cross the sound. Find out about (cavalry) uniform the organization’s kayak rentals, lessons and BENJAMIN TALLMADGE, organizer and guided spy tours. leader of the Revolutionary War Setauket Spies, was born in Setauket on Feb. 6. PATRIOTS ROCK HISTORIC SITE, 25, 1754. The son of the minister of the Main Street, Setauket. This glacial erratic Setauket Presbyterian Church, he was the youngest of the Culper spies. The home boulder is said to be the location of the Battle 8. SETAUKET PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH where he was born is still standing in Se- of Setauket on Aug. 22, 1777. Hundreds of Pa- AND CEMETERY, 5 Caroline Ave., Setauket. tauket at the end of Runs Road. Tallmadge triot soldiers, under General Parsons, crossed The previous church (1714–1811) was a part grew up in Setauket, attended school Long Island Sound and attacked the fort erect- RI%ULWLVKIRUWL¿FDWLRQVGXULQJ7KHIRUW here with his close friend Abraham Wood- ed around the Setauket Presbyterian Church. was under the command of Loyalist Com- hull and, like many residents of Suffolk Under the direction of Captain Caleb Brewster, mander Col. Richard Hewlett. The present County, he grew to have a healthy distrust the Patriots mounted a cannon next to the boul- building dates from 1812. The minister before for British authorities in New York. A class- der. Loyalist forces, under Colonel Richard and during the Revolutionary War was Rev- mate of , Tallmadge graduat- Hewlett of Queens, successfully defended the erend Benjamin Tallmadge, father of Major ed from Yale in 1773 and, like Hale, taught fort. Stop here to meet representatives from the Benjamin Tallmadge, soldier, patriot and head school for a time in Connecticut. Three Village Community Trust who will dis- of General Washington’s secret service. Come When the Revolution began, Tall- cuss the importance of Patriot’s Rock and its into the church sanctuary to hear from docents madge enlisted in the local and environmental history. 631-689-0225. about this church that served the congregation and was soon awarded the rank of major. from the 1660s. Later, General Washington appointed Leaving the church, walk to the left, go through him head of his secret service and tasked the gate into the cemetery, turn left alongside the Tallmadge with establishing an espionage church and then left behind the church and right network against the British in New York to the brick-encased memorial marker that is 10. SETAUKET ELEMENTARY SCHOOL City. To conduct this vital undercover op- the grave site of Abraham Woodhull of George AUDITORIUM, 134 Main Street, Setauket. eration on Long Island, Tallmadge choose Washington’s Spy Ring. Docents will give more Completed in 1951, the auditorium contains the his boyhood friend Abraham Woodhull. Together they chose other friends and details about some of the famous people who are murals of artist Vance Locke. A gift of Ward and Dorothy Melville to the community, the murals neighbors from Setauket; men and the permanent residents of the cemetery, which women who could be trusted and who dates to the founding of Setauket and the Town of tell the stories of Setauket/Brookhaven history. In 2018, Setauket School fourth-grade stu- would prove to be so discreet in all their Brookhaven in 1655. 631-941-4271. contacts that their identity would not be dents wrote and recorded the story of each mural discovered until the 20th century. from the community life of the Setalcott Native Major Tallmadge, referred to by the Americans before European contact to cutting code name John Bolton, not only led ice on the Setauket Mill Pond about 1900. On Washington’s secret service but was the east wall between the full-length windows also in most of the battles involving the DUH WKH ¿YH PXUDOV RI WKH 5HYROXWLRQDU\ :DU Continental Army in the northern states. depicting the British control of Long Island Among his many exploits was the capture (1776), the Battle of Setauket (1777), the Culper of Fort St. George at Mastic in November Spy Ring (1778 and 1779) and the Battle of Fort 1780. After the war was over, Tallmadge St. George (1780). The auditorium is open to the retired from the Army with the rank of public only on Culper Spy Day. Each mural sec- colonel. In 1784 he married Mary, eldest 9.SETAUKET VILLAGE GREEN, Main tion contains a QR code that brings the students daughter of General of Mas- Street, Setauket. Following the end of the recorded story to life. tic — Long Island’s signer of the Declara- 7. CAROLINE CHURCH OF BROOKHA- Revolutionary War and the departure of all The head of the Culper Spy Ring, Abraham tion of Independence. Tallmadge lived in VEN AND CEMETERY, 1 Dyke Road, Se- the British and Loyalist forces from Long Is- Woodhull, portrayed by historian Beverly Tyler, Litchfield, Connecticut, and represented tauket. Built in 1729, this timber frame build- land in 1783, the residents of Setauket held will be stationed in the Setauket School Audito- that state in Congress for 16 years. He ing has maintained its Colonial appearance. an ox roast on the Setauket Village Green rium to discuss the Revolutionary War murals died in Litchfield in 1835 at the age of 81. Now an Episcopal Church, during the Revolu- in honor of their native son Benjamin Tall- and will also be glad to answer any questions CULPER SPIES continued on page C8 tionary War the Caroline Church was Anglican madge, son of the Setauket Presbyterian about his life and times. 631-730-4600. PAGE C6 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • AUGUST 30, 2018 AUGUST 30, 2018 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • PAGE C7 PAGE C8 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • AUGUST 30, 2018 famous English actor Thomas Haddaway. Spir- CULPER SPIES itual seances would be held there, with neighbor William Sidney Mount trying to conjure up past Continued from page C5 spirits, a popular practice at the time. In 1970 it became a restaurant known as the 1710 House. In 1975 it was reopened as the Haddaway House and in 1978 it became The Country House Restaurant. On Culper Spy Day the restaurant will serve up a special spy-themed lunch with seatings at noon and 2 p.m. Adult meals start at $14. Chil- dren’s meals, which includes a soft drink, are $10.95. Kids can decode a secret spy code and win a free dessert (everyone’s a winner). Call 631-751-3332 for reservations. 13. SHERWOOD-JAYNE FARM, 55 Old Post Road, East Setauket. Originally built around 1730 as a lean-to saltbox dwelling, the house and farm were maintained as an operational farmstead for 11. EMMA S. CLARK MEMORIAL LI- over 150 years by members of the Jayne family. In BRARY, 120 Main St., Setauket. The library 1908, Preservation Long Island’s founder, Howard Photo from Bev Tyler (circa 1892) will present songs, chanteys and C. Sherwood, acquired the property to showcase Anna Smith Strong and her magic clothes- sea slang from Colonial days with the Roy- line as portrayed by Donna Smith his lifetime interest in collecting, studying and al Yard (the duo of Stuart Markus and Robin living with antiques. Restored by Joseph Everett ANNA SMITH STRONG, the great-grand- Greenstein) from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the li- daughter of Setauket’s lord of the manor, Chandler of Boston, one of the leading Resto- brary lawn. Bring a folding chair or blanket. ration/Colonial-Revival architects of the time, the Colonel William (Tangier) Smith, was a strong There will also be a children’s Colonial craft and ardent Patriot. She devised, according house contains period furnishings and features from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., as well as a display RULJLQDO ODWHHLJKWHHQWKFHQWXU\ KDQGSDLQWHG ÀR- to a folklore story first detailed by Morton case of Revolutionary War soldiers’ equipment Pennypacker in his book “George Wash- ral wall frescoes. The farm features walking trails, in the library’s lobby. Learn about the library’s ington’s Spies,” a wash line signal system to a barn, outbuildings, an apple orchard and pasture. Culper Spy Ring website (www.spyring.em- 15. THE LONG ISLAND MUSEUM, 1200 identify for Abraham Woodhull the where- Come tour the historic house and hear Wil- Route 25A, Stony Brook. The museum is a abouts of Caleb Brewster’s whaleboat, so that maclark.org) and check out related materials liam Jayne II, aka Big Bill the Tory (played by at the information tent adjacent to the front 6PLWKVRQLDQ $I¿OLDWH ZLWK SHUPDQHQW DQG Woodhull could find him and pass along the David Burt) in his full Loyalist regalia, explain changing exhibitions on American history and messages meant for General Washington. entrance. Tickets are not required for library the noble intentions and virtuosities of King As detailed by Pennypacker and embel- activities. 631-941-4080. DUW DORQJ ZLWK WKH ¿QHVW FROOHFWLRQ RI KRUVH George III. Enjoy apple cider and donuts while drawn carriages in the country, some of which lished by Strong family historian Kate Strong Big Bill tells you the TRUTH about George in her “True Tales,” to avoid detection by the belonged to Revolutionary War heroes. Washington’s pesky band of renegade spies! Activities during the day will include black- British it was necessary for Brewster to hide Refreshments are available for purchase on site. his boat in six different places, each identified smith demonstrations in the Samuel West Black- In addition, artifacts from Preservation Long smith Shop from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and lessons by a number. “Nancy” Strong, as she was Island’s collection with a connection to mem- known by friends and neighbors, hung her with a schoolmarm in the one-room Nassakeag bers of Long Island’s famous Culper Spy Ring Schoolhouse (1877) from 2 to 4 p.m. The Ben- laundry from the line in a code formation to will be on exhibit at the Sherwood-Jayne House. direct Woodhull to the correct location. A jamin Tallmadge District of the Boy Scouts will Among these are items from the home of Colo- black petticoat was the signal that Brewster set up a Revolutionary era encampment on mu- was nearby, and the number of handker- nel Benjamin Tallmadge, a founding member of seum grounds and give cooking demonstrations the spy ring, who would become George Wash- chiefs scattered among the other garments RYHUDQRSHQ¿UHDOOGD\&XOSHU6S\'D\WLFN- on the line indicated the meeting place. LQJWRQ¶VFKLHILQWHOOLJHQFHRI¿FHU ets will also be accepted on Sept. 22 and 23 for Using the most ordinary of personal items Your Culper Spy Day 2018 ticket also grants visitors to the new exhibition, Elias Pelletreau: and improvising on the most ordinary of you access to Preservation Long Island’s other Long Island Silversmith & Entrepreneur, open- personal tasks, Anna made an extraordinary properties the entire weekend, Sept. 15 and 16, ing Sept. 21 in the Art Museum. 631-751-0066. contribution to the cause of freedom. including the Custom House in Sag Harbor, Jo- Anna Strong lived on Strong’s Neck with seph Lloyd Manor in Lloyd Harbor and the Old her six children throughout the war. Her Methodist Church in Cold Spring Harbor. (See husband, Selah Strong, was confined in a more on page C10) 631-692-4664. New York prison in January, 1778, for “Sur- 12. JOSEPH BREWSTER HOUSE, 18 Runs reptitious correspondence with the enemy.” Road, corner of Route 25A, Setauket. Circa She got permission to bring him food, 1655, it is considered to be the oldest house in which evidently saved his life, and she ob- the Town of Brookhaven. During the Revolu- tained his release by appealing to her Tory tionary War, the house was owned by Joseph relatives. He was still in danger and spent %UHZVWHU ¿UVW FRXVLQ RI &XOSHU 6S\ &DOHE the rest of the war in Connecticut. Brewster and neighbor of the ring’s founder, While British officers luxuriated in the Benjamin Tallmadge. In order to preserve his Manor House (no longer standing — a KRPHDQGSURSHUW\IURPFRQ¿VFDWLRQ-RVHSK 19th-century manor replaced it), Anna Brewster operated a tavern out of the home, 16. STONY BROOK GRIST MILL, 100 lived in a small cottage across the bay from hosting the occupying British forces. Harbor Road, Stony Brook. Long Island’s Woodhull’s farm, staying there to also pro- Docents depicting Joseph and Rebecca most completely equipped and working mill, tect her family’s rights to the estate. A good Brewster will lead you on a tour of the house the Stony Brook Grist Mill, circa 1751, is list- friend of Caleb Brewster, as a member of and show artifacts from an archaeological dig 14. THE COUNTRY HOUSE RESTAURANT, ed on the National Register of Historic Plac- the Culper Spy Ring in Setauket, she was of the site while 18th-century cook and living 1175 North Country Road, Stony Brook. Built in es. During the Revolutionary War, occupying a vital link between the Continental Army historian Diane Schwindt of Stirring Up Histo- 1710, the restaurant was originally a home and officer Caleb Brewster and Abraham Wood- %ULWLVKIRUFHVFRQ¿VFDWHGPXFKRIWKHJUDLQWR ry will be serving up some tasty and authentic used as a farm. Throughout the centuries, it was hull, the Patriot spy posing as a Loyalist. provision their own troops. A miller will be on treats from America’s past on the front lawn. used for many different purposes such as a stage- hand to demonstrate the workings of the mill CULPER SPIES continued on page C9 631-751-2244. coach drop-off. In the 1800s it became home to the from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 631-689-3238. AUGUST 30, 2018 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • PAGE C9 19. CAMPUS BICYCLE, 1077 Route 25A, Stony Brook. Taking the Long Island Rail Road CULPER SPIES to Stony Brook? Rent a bicycle for the day! The bicycle store, located across from the train sta- Continued from page C8 tion, will offer a special Culper Spy Day rate of In one letter during the spying operation $30, which includes a helmet and lock. When Brewster noted that he was “up behind making reservations, please mention Culper the Strongs.” In a letter written to British Spy Day. 631-689-1200. Intelligence Chief Oliver Delancy in Febru- ary 1781, British spy William Heron wrote, “Private dispatches are frequently sent From your city to the Chieftain [Washing- ton] here by some traitors. They come by the Way of Setalket [sic], where a certain 23. DROWNED MEADOW COTTAGE Brewster receives them at, or near, a MUSEUM, corner of West Broadway and Bar- Certain woman’s.” The certain woman was num Avenue, Port Jefferson. The Revolutionary 17. THE STONY BROOKSIDE BED & almost certainly Anna Smith Strong. War era Roe House was originally constructed BIKE INN, 48 Main Street, Stony Brook. Start After the war Anna and Selah were reunit- circa 1755 and Phillips Roe, a member of the your Culper Spy Day adventure from Stony ed and Selah led Washington’s carriage and Culper Spy Ring along with his brother Nathan- Brook on bicycle. Enjoy breakfast at the Three party to the Roe Tavern in April of 1790 when iel and cousin Austin, was known to have lived the then President Washington made his Village Inn or take a tour of the Stony Brook there. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., costumed docents tour of Long Island. Anna died in 1812 and Grist Mill before starting a guided bike ride to will lead tours of the house, which will show- Selah in 1815. They are buried in the Smith- Setauket to complete your Culper Spy Day ex- case painting, prints and photography exhib- Strong family graveyard along Cemetery perience. Park in Stony Brook Village and meet 20. STONY BROOK VILLAGE CENTER, its. Enjoy Colonial activities including games, Road on Strong’s Neck. at the Stony Brookside Bed & Bike Inn at 9:45 111 Main Street, Stony Brook. Costumed do- cooking demonstrations, children’s costume CALEB BREWSTER was perhaps the most a.m. with your bike. Return guided bike ride to cents from the Ward Melville Heritage Organi- zation’s Youth Corps will be stationed in front and coloring station, reading activities and time bold and daring of the spies. He was the Stony Brook from Setauket will take place at only one of the group that the British had RIWKHSRVWRI¿FHDVZHOODVLQIURQWRIWKH+HU- period music. 631-473-4724. SP)RUDJHVDQGXS)LUVWFRPH¿UVW definitely identified as a spy. When the Revo- cules Pavilion on historic Main Street to point serve. Space is limited. Call for more details and lutionary War broke out, Brewster enlisted in reserve a spot today. 631-675-0393. out areas of interest from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 631- the local militia. 751-2244. After the August 1776 in Brooklyn, Brewster joined the Con- tinental Army with the rank of a lieutenant of artillery. He returned to Setauket in August of 1777 as part of the attacking force from Connecticut that fought in the battle of Se- tauket. In November 1780 he was one of the officers under Major Benjamin Tallmadge who captured Fort St. George at Mastic. They returned to Connecticut with the entire complement of the fort captured. In spite of his service designation, one of 24. PORT JEFFERSON CHAMBER OF Brewster’s task throughout the war was to 21. STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY, Frank COMMERCE, 118 West Broadway, Port Jef- command a fleet of whaleboats operating 0HOYLOOH -U 0HPRULDO /LEUDU\ QG ÀRRU ferson. Built in 1682, the John Roe House is from the Connecticut shore against British Room E-2320, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook. saltbox in design and originally stood at the edge and Tory shipping on Long Island Sound SBU’s Special Collections will hold a special of the salt marsh. John Roe, an Irish shoemak- (known as the Devil’s Belt). This, together with his knowledge of the Long Island Open House from 11 a.m. to noon and again er from Maspeth, Queens, built this home with shoreline, his work as a mate on sailing ships from 1 to 2 p.m. View two original Culper Spy added additions for his family in the early 1700s. 18. THE THREE VILLAGE INN, 150 Main Ring letters authored and signed by George and his boyhood association with Benjamin His son Nathaniel Roe came to the property in Tallmadge, made him an ideal choice to carry Street, Stony Brook. Known as the Old Home- Washington in 1779 and 1780. Free parking in 1710. Nathaniel Roe Jr. and other Roes includ- stead, the original structure of Mirabelle at intelligence back and forth across the Sound. the parking garage near the Wang Center (west ing Austin were all part of the Culper Spy Ring. It was Caleb Brewster who most likely Three Village Inn was built in 1751 by Rich- campus). 631-632-7119. In 1840 Henry Townsend divided the home into gave Benjamin Tallmadge the idea to use ard Hallock. In 1835, Jonas Smith, one of two halves and inserted a two-story addition in Setauket as a center for intelligence opera- the country’s most prominent ship owners, the center, creating the Townsend House Inn. tions. Beginning in 1777, Brewster gathered purchased the Hallock Homestead for use as Upon entering the home you can see exposed information on the activities of British and a summer house. After his death in 1867 the KDQGKHZQ WLPEHUV VXSSRUWLQJ WKH VHFRQG ÀRRU Loyalist units on Long Island from his friends, house had a series of owners until 1929 when mortise and tenon joints pinned with tree nails relatives and other contacts and gave the Jennie Melville purchased and renovated it for and lath construction consisting of narrow wood mostly verbal information to his boyhood use as a Women’s Exchange. As people visited strips. It was moved in 1896 to a location near friend Tallmadge. the area, she started serving tea, sandwiches the railroad tracks where it served as a bar for Once Tallmadge formalized the activities and refreshments. What began as a simple tea the trainmen after working hours. The house was of the Culper Spy Ring, Brewster took his room in the 1930s became a large restaurant moved to its present site in 1982 and now serves whaleboat crews to Setauket and neigh- with rooms to accommodate overnight guests 22. ROE TAVERN MARKER, Route 25A, as a community information center and home for boring coves to bring messages back to in 1939 and the Three Village Inn was born. Setauket at the corner of Bayview Avenue. the Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce. Fairfield, Connecticut, for Major Benjamin The restaurant will feature a special spy Stop here on your way to Port Jefferson to view Visit the house on Culper Spy Day and Tallmadge to deliver to General Washington. breakfast at 8 a.m. to kick off the day. Buffet the sign marking the former site of Roe Tavern. view books on the Revolutionary War on loan Brewster also made numerous trips with his PHQX ZLOO IHDWXUH VFUDPEOHG HJJV PXI¿QV Originally a home built by Selah Strong, it was from the Port Jefferson Free Library. Costumed whaleboat crews into Long Island Sound to attack British and Loyalist ships. This activity croissants, a fruit platter, French toast, orange sold to the Woodhulls, who sold it to Captain volunteers will help children create a secret also provided opportunities for gathering juice, coffee and more. Cost is $10 per person Austin Roe, a member of the Culper Spy Ring, spy message using invisible ink, set up Anna intelligence for General Washington. plus tax and tip. Reservations are required. who made it into a tavern. General George Smith’s clothesline and create their own mini 631- 751-0555. Washington slept there in 1790. clothesline using secret coded messages. CULPER SPIES continued on page C10 PAGE C10 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • AUGUST 30, 2018

CULPER SPIES ROBERT TOWNSEND (code name Samuel Auxiliary Revolutionary War and Culper Culper Jr.) coordinated the efforts of the Continued from page C9 spy network in New York. We will probably Spy Ring sites to visit never know all the spies who contributed information on British movements, but we A. HUNTINGTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY, was wounded, Sgt. Elijah Churchill, who became do know that Townsend was the principal headquarters at 209 Main Street, Huntington. WKH¿UVWUHFLSLHQWRIWKH3XUSOH+HDUW+RXUVDUH contact in New York between most of 1779 The society maintains the 1795 Dr. Daniel Tuesdays through Sundays from 1 to 4:30 p.m. and 1781. Kissam House Museum, 434 Park Avenue, For more information, call 631-757-9859 or visit During portions of that time Abraham Huntington. The house now standing on this www.northporthistorical.org. Woodhull (Samuel Culper Sr.) took over historic site, one of the original home lots that from Townsend, as he had done before faced the old Town Green, was built in 1795 C. PRESERVATION LONG ISLAND, www. recruiting Townsend. The Culper Spy Ring supplied General Washington with vital E\7LPRWK\-DUYLVDKRXVHZULJKW,WZDV¿UVW preservationlongisland.org. In addition to Sher- information concerning British troop move- occupied by Dr. Daniel Whitehead Kissam, a wood-Jayne Farm in East Setauket, Preserva- ments, fortifications and intentions in New physician from Oyster Bay. Considered one of tion Long Island (formerly the Society for the York and the surrounding area during the the most outstanding three-quarter plan houses Preservation of Long Island Antiquities) main- perilous war years from 1778 to 1783. RQ/RQJ,VODQGLWLVQRWHGIRULWV¿QHDUFKLWHF- tains and interprets historic sites and collections The sensational intelligence transmitted tural details. In 1840, Dr. Charles Sturges, the that embody various aspects of Long Island’s by the spies led to the capture of Major son-in-law of Dr. Kissam, added a “modern” history including: John Andre (he was hung as a spy on orders kitchen wing and converted the old kitchen to a 1. Old Methodist Church, 161 Main Street, of General Washington) and the discov- formal dining room. The home was purchased Cold Spring Harbor. Headquarters for Preserva- ery of ’s plot to turn over by the society from the estate of Hilda Taylor in tion Long Island, the Cold Spring Harbor Meth- West Point to the British. The spy ring also 1967 and restoration and reinterpretation of the odist Episcopal Church was built in 1842 by Is- Image from Bev Tyler supplied Washington with information that interior was begun by the society in 1984. rael Valentine during the heyday of whaling on Vance Locke mural of Austin Roe riding enabled him to prevent the British from Built in 1790 in the nearby farming commu- a site acquired from Judge Richard M. Conklin, from the Brooklyn Ferry with spy messages attacking the French Army as they arrived nity of Lloyd Harbor, the barn on the property one of the partners in the Cold Spring Harbor in Newport, , in July 1780, and can be historically traced back to the Rogers Whaling Company. After serving its congrega- AUSTIN ROE ran a tavern in East Setauket possibly also destroying the French fleet family, who used the structure on their home- tion for 149 years, the church closed its doors where food and drink were served and that transported them to Newport. stead for livestock housing. Legend has it, how- and the society acquired the building in 1996 for where travelers could stay overnight on their One of the most important contribu- ever, the barn also housed British troops who adaptive reuse as its exhibition gallery, program way to or from the south or east end of Long tions of the Culper Spy Ring was to provide were quartered there during the Revolution. The DQG PHHWLQJ VSDFH DQG DGPLQLVWUDWLYH RI¿FHV Island. The original location of the tavern General Washington with accurate and museum is open by appointment. Visitation by appointment. 631-692-4664. (it was moved in 1936) was along what is detailed intelligence. In many instances, The society also maintains the David Conk- now Route 25A, just west of the south end Washington was able to check the veracity 2. Joseph Lloyd Manor, 1 Lloyd Lane, of Bayview Avenue. The site is marked by a of information received from other sources lin Farmhouse, 2 High Street, Huntington. The Lloyd Harbor. Completed in 1767 for Joseph state road sign that details a few of the most by comparing it with intelligence received Conklin house contains artifacts and is decorated Lloyd, the second lord of the Manor of Queens important facts about Austin Roe and the from the Culper Spy Ring. to illustrate three periods of the country’s histo- Village, the Joseph Lloyd Manor House was the tavern. Captain Austin Roe used his position There were many other Patriot spies ry: Colonial, Federal and Victorian. When you seat of a 3,000-acre agricultural estate. The British as a tavern owner to justify his trips to New reporting to General Washington, some visit this National Register property, occupied by occupied it during the Revolutionary War, and it York City (). known and many still unknown. They all the Conklin family for over 150 years, you will ZDVWKHKRPHRI-XSLWHU+DPPRQRQHRIWKH¿UVW While in New York, Roe gathered supplies risked their lives, soldiers and civilians alike, see the original rooms of the house constructed published African American authors. Enslaved by he needed for the tavern and expensive to provide vital intelligence that allowed c. 1750 and a table and chair used by George the Lloyd family for most of his life, Hammon materials and goods for Anna Strong. These General Washington and the Continental Washington during his tour of Long Island in wrote powerfully about the paradoxes of Ameri- trips provided the cover he needed to obtain Army to defeat the greatest army in the 1790. You will also see the area where Sybel can freedom and slavery. The house remained in the spy messages he carried to Abraham world and to “turn the world upside down.” Conklin and her children lived and worked while the Lloyd family until 1876 and eventually be- Woodhull in Setauket that had to be relayed her husband, David, was held prisoner by the came the country house of Mrs. Anna Matheson to General Washington. British in 1777. One of the earliest museums on Wood who donated the property to Preservation Born in 1748, Austin Roe was 29 years Long Island, this home was given to the society Long Island in 1968. Today, Lloyd Manor is fur- old when he first agreed to be a part of the by Ella Conklin Hurd in 1911. The property is nished to the 1793 inventory of Joseph’s nephew, Setauket spies. He made the 110-mile round open Fridays and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. and John Lloyd II, and occupies a spectacular 2.5-acre trip at least once a week. by appointment. 631-427-7045. setting overlooking Lloyd Harbor. The property is The road was heavily traveled by Brit- open for tours on Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. from ish and Tory troops and by highwaymen B. NORTHPORT HISTORICAL SOCIETY, Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day (thieves and robbers). Captain Roe would 215 Main St., Northport. Second Lieutenant receive information (usually directly from and by appointment. Admission is $5 adults, $3 Robert Townsend). The messages were writ- Henry Scudder, a resident of a large farm near children ages 7 to 14. 631-692-4664. ten in code or invisible ink. Crab Meadow, was captured by the British af- 3. Custom House, 912 Main St., Sag Harbor. Roe would ride back to Setauket and pass ter the Battle of Long Island in August of 1776. 7KLVZDVWKHUHVLGHQFHDQGRI¿FHRI6DJ+DUERU¶V the information to Woodhull, who would +HZDVSDUROHGLQDSULVRQHUH[FKDQJHDQGÀHG ¿UVW8QLWHG6DWHV&XVWRP0DVWHU+HQU\3DFNHU secretly meet Brewster. The intelligence to Connecticut rather than take an oath of alle- Dering, who lived in the house with his family would then go across the Sound to Fairfield giance to the British Crown. From Connecticut, from 1790 until 1822. The house was originally and then to General Washington. Captain he planned and led numerous raids on Long Is- located at the corner of Union and Church streets Austin Roe made numerous trips to New land, becoming a courageous and elusive spy for before moving to its current site in 1948 by the York and was never discovered. He moved to the Continental Army. Old Sagg-Harbour Committee in order to save it Patchogue in 1798 where he founded Roe’s Scudder often penetrated enemy lines, sending from demolition. In 1966, Preservation Long Is- Hotel. He died there in 1830 at the age of 81. back important information on troop movements. land acquired the property. Today, it is interpreted The present location of the Roe Tavern, During one spying mission on British held Fort WRUHÀHFWWKHZRUNDQGGDLO\DFWLYLWLHVRI'HULQJ where on April 22, 1790, President George Image courtesy of LIM Slongo, Scudder and Bryant Skidmore drew a his wife, and nine children. The property is open Washington enjoyed the hospitality of Aus- Robert Townsend decodes a spy message plan of the fort and sent it to General Washing- for tours Saturdays and Sundays in September tin Roe and spent the night, is off Old Post from George Washington in ‘Culper Spy’ by ton. Utilizing the map, 100 American raiders through Columbus Day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Road. The house is private and not open to Mort KÜnstler. rowed across the Sound and launched a success- Admission is $6 adults, $5 seniors, $3 children the public. ful attack on the fort in 1781. Only one American ages 7 to 14. 631-692-4664. AUGUST 30, 2018 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • PAGE C11 D. RAYNHAM HALL MUSEUM, 20 West other home. Culper spy Anna Smith Strong is a H. EAST HAMPTON LIBRARY, LONG Georgian Colonial was occupied by Amer- Main St., Oyster Bay. Home of George direct descendant of William Smith. ISLAND COLLECTION, 159 Main Street, ican Patriots during the winter of 1776. The Washington’s intelligence operative, Robert During the Revolutionary War the British East Hampton. The Morton Pennypacker Georgian-style home was then purchased by Townsend (code name Samuel Culper Jr.) erected Fort St. George on the site. The fort was Long Island Collection at the East Hampton the Hewlett family who lived there from 1824 who spent the war in New York City (Man- a depository of stores, dry goods, groceries and Library is one of the premiere collections of to 1948. The property was then deeded to the hattan). Purchased by Robert’s father Samuel arms to supply British forces in Suffolk Coun- Long Island and New York historical records. Town of Hempstead. After an extensive resto- around 1740, this home tells the story of the ty. In November 1780 Benjamin Tallmadge Of particular note in regard to the Culper Spy ration, it opened as a museum in 1953. Hours Townsend family during the Revolutionary and a detachment of dismounted dragoons at- 5LQJ VWRU\ DUH WKH OLEUDU\¶V VLJQL¿FDQW FRO- are Wednesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 War. The museum is open Tuesday through tacked, captured and burned the fort and the lections of Townsend, Woodhull and other p.m. and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. Free Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. For admission fees British ships in the harbor loaded with stores, important families’ business, real estate and admission. 516-239-1157. and other information, call 516-922-6808 or without the loss of a man. On the way back to personal archives. Working with the Under- visit www.raynhamhallmuseum.org. the North Shore they burned the British supply hill Society for the past seven years they have I. FRAUNCES TAVERN ® MUSEUM, 54 of winter forage in Coram, thus ending British methodically cataloged, digitized, transcribed 3HDUO6WUHHWQGÀRRU1HZ

On the cover: From left, Major Benjamin Tallmadge (Art Billadello) and Abraham Woodhull (Beverly C. Tyler) read a copy of The Royal Gazette dated July 21, 1780 on the grounds of the Sherwood-Jayne Farm in East Setauket as Big Bill the Tory, aka William Jayne II (David Burt), looks on. Billadello is wearing a dra- goon coat from the AMC television series SPECIAL THANKS TO THE CULPER SPY ‘TURN’ that will be auctioned off at Gallery DAY COMMITTEE FOR ALL THEIR HARD North’s Studio during Culper Spy Day. WORK AND DEDICATION. Photo by Heidi Sutton ©123910 PAGE C12 • ARTS & LIFESTYLES • AUGUST 30, 2018

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