Brooklyn’s Revolutionary War history will come to life this summer through Brooklyn 250, a series of free programs, tours, exhibitions and events at historic sites across the borough and online.
The program marks the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Brooklyn — the largest battle of the Revolutionary War — and the founding of the United States.
Brooklyn 250 is presented by the Green-Wood Cemetery, the Old Stone House, Brooklyn Public Library’s Center for Brooklyn History, Prospect Park Alliance, Fort Greene Park Conservancy and Friends of Fort Defiance. The program is supported by $350,000 in state funding secured by state Sen. Andrew Gounardes and Assemblymembers Robert Carroll and Jo Anne Simon. Programs will continue through the end of 2026.
“Few places in New York can tell the story of the American Revolution as directly as Brooklyn. Visitors can stand on Battle Hill, look across the landscape where the Battle of Brooklyn unfolded, and see where the defining moment in our nation’s history took place,” said Meera Joshi, president of the Green-Wood Cemetery.
The program highlights Brooklyn’s role in the Revolutionary War, including the Battle of Brooklyn. It explores the experiences of Black New Yorkers, Indigenous people, women and others whose stories have often been undervalued.
Events include a Battle of Brooklyn reenactment in Prospect Park, walking and trolley tours, concerts featuring reimagined Revolutionary-era music, educational programs and exhibitions.
The Green-Wood Cemetery will host a major commemoration on Aug. 23 with costumed interpreters, more than 50 regimental flags, historical objects, music and activities focused on the meaning of freedom.
Prospect Park Alliance is also presenting exhibits and tours about the battlefield and the experiences of Africans enslaved by the Lefferts family. Friends of Fort Defiance will showcase newly discovered artifacts and research about Red Hook’s Revolutionary history.
Residents can find the full schedule and information about participating in events across Brooklyn and online.
