One Family’s Revolution - The Townsends and the Birth of the United States

Experience the American Revolution as lived by the Townsend family of Oyster Bay during the era that gave rise to the United States. Samuel Townsend’s role in the New York Provincial Congress and his son Robert Townsend’s service in the Culper Spy Ring place this household at the heart of revolutionary events. Set against the backdrop of British occupation, this program, presented by Justinne Lake-Jedzinak, Director of Education and Public Programs at Raynham Hall Museum, explores alliances, loyalties, espionage, and enslavement—offering a deeply human perspective on how independence unfolded inside one Long Island home 250 years ago.