Victory Day in Washington County

On October 17, 1777, British General John Burgoyne surrendered following his defeat in the Battles of Saratoga, a victory widely recognized as the turning point of the American Revolution. Celebrate the 249th anniversary of this surrender with an afternoon and evening of history, remembrance, and celebration.

Choose your own Victory Day experience! Attend one event, two events, or enjoy all three. Each program is a standalone experience, offering a fun and meaningful way to commemorate one of the most significant days of the American Revolution.

Saturday, October 17

VICTORY DAY AGENDA

EXPERIENCE I – LEARN

Revolutionary Conversations at Tiashoke Farm Store

2:00–4:00 p.m

Bring a lawn chair and enjoy this free program featuring engaging presentations that explore Washington County’s role in the American Revolution.

Topics to include:

Taking of Fort Ticonderoga, Henry Knox in Washington County, Building the Navy, General Burgoyne in Washington County

EXPERIENCE II – CELEBRATE

Revolutionary Conversations at Victory View Vineyard /11975 NY-40 Schaticoke, NY

4:30 p.m. – The festivities include readings from the firsthand accounts of John Peter Becker, Baroness Riedesel, James Wilkinson, and Oliver Boardman, offering personal perspectives on the events surrounding General Burgoyne’s surrender and bringing the history of 1777 to life. The 2nd Continental Artillery will conclude with a cannon firing at dusk (approximately 6:08 p.m.)

The Significance of the Date and Location

On October 17, 1777, British General John Burgoyne surrendered following his defeat in the Battles of Saratoga, a victory widely recognized as the turning point of the American Revolution. While many people travel great distances to visit places where history was made, we are fortunate to have one of the most remarkable sites in our own backyard. From Victory View Vineyard, you can overlook the very countryside where Burgoyne’s army laid down its arms. It is a setting that invites both reflection and celebration.

EXPERIENCE III – DINE

Victory Day Pig Roast at Tiashoke Farm Store

Beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Enjoy a delicious pig roast featuring locally sourced food.

Advance ticket purchase is required.

BIOS FOR THOSE TO BE MENTIONED IN EXPERIENCE II …….

1)  JP BECKER

John Peter Becker’s final resting place is in the Bottskill Church cemetery in Greenwich, NY. In December 2025, a ceremony to honor Becker was organized by the Washington County 250th Commemoration Committee.

2)  J WILKINSON

James Wilkinson served as General Horatio Gates’ deputy adjutant general during the 1777 Saratoga Campaign, spending time in what is now Washington County.

3)  BARONESS   REIDESEL

The Baroness stayed at the Old Fort House in August 1777 while accompanying General Burgoyne’s army. The museum specifically notes the house hosted the Baroness von Reidesel during the Revolutionary War.

4)  OLIVER BROADMAN

Broadman left a day-by-day journal of the events and daily life of soldiers in the American Army at Saratoga. In his journal, he witnessed both battles of Saratoga and the surrender of the British Army in Saratoga (Schuylerville).