As communities across the country commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence, Teatown is hosting a special day of storytelling exploring Teatown’s connections to the American Revolution.
On Saturday, September 26, acclaimed master storyteller Jonathan Kruk will lead two programs at Teatown, bringing the people, places, and stories of Revolutionary-era Westchester to life for audiences of all ages.
Long before Teatown became a land trust and environmental education center, the landscape and surrounding communities were part of a region deeply shaped by the struggle for American independence. The September programs will invite visitors to experience that history through storytelling, music, audience participation, and the local tales that connect Teatown to a pivotal chapter in the nation’s founding.
“Teatown is a place where people come to connect with the landscape, and that landscape has a history of its own,” said Kevin Carter, Executive Director of Teatown. “As we celebrate America 250, we’re excited to work with Jonathan Kruk to share the stories of Teatown and Revolutionary-era Westchester with our community.”
The afternoon begins with Teatown Tales, a family program from 2–3 pm. Children will become part of the storytelling themselves, stepping into roles as Kruk shares tales inspired by the history and landscape of the Hudson Valley. The program will include local place-name stories, the tale of the Hudson River’s formation, and more, with musical accompaniment by “Caffeine” Steve Kelman.
That evening, Teatown will present Revolutionary Teatown! from 6–7:30 pm, an adults-only program exploring Teatown’s Revolutionary origins and Westchester’s struggle for independence. Kruk will be joined by Historical Balladeer Linda Russell for a musical journey from the Revolutionary era through Teatown’s story today, complete with period songs, sing-
along pub tunes, hammer dulcimer, and guitar. Ticket price includes refreshments, beer, and wine.
The evening program will also serve as a special fundraiser supporting Teatown’s ongoing campus transformation. As Teatown celebrates the history rooted in its landscape, the event offers an opportunity to help shape the organization’s next chapter and the future of environmental education and conservation at Teatown.
Celebrate America 250 with Teatown and master storyteller Jonathan Kruk:
- Saturday, September 26, 2026
- Teatown Tales — for families 2–3 pm
- Revolutionary Teatown! — for adults 6–7:30 pm
Advance registration is required. Tickets and additional information are available at teatown.org/revolutionary-teatown
