Treason In Our Midst

During the American Revolution, the area of Bronxville witnessed raids, troop movements and other activities from militias, armies and neighbors on opposite sides of the conflict. Not far away, during September 1780, a plot was revealed that could have ended the war quickly and again placed the king of England in charge of the colonies.

Recognizing the people, events and sites related to what General George Washington described as “treason of the blackest dye,” referring to traitor American General Benedict Arnold’s attempt to surrender the American fortification at West Point, Revolutionary Westchester 250 (RW250) is launching an aptly named initiative – This Man’s A Spy. The program will create community awareness, understanding and enthusiasm for the historical significance of this critical event in
U.S. history.

See the announcement here. See a video about the plot here.

About RW250

RW250 is under the leadership of President Constance Kehoe, an Irvington resident. It is Westchester County’s commitment to remembering the local events and people associated with the American Revolution in accordance with the United States Semiquincentennial Commission Act of 2016. With the upcoming observation of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America during 1776, many local events preceding, during and after the Revolutionary War will be recognized by RW250.

This Man's A Spy will feature the stories about the Patriots of Westchester County who primarily were responsible for the capture of British Major John André and, by finding the plans to the American garrison, foiled Arnold’s treasonous plot. If Arnold’s plan had been successful, the loss of West Point could have led to an American defeat.

This Man’s A Spy will deliver an inclusive account of the historic events surrounding the Patriot militiamen’s (John Paulding, Isaac Van Wart and David Williams) capture of André of the British secret service as a spy in Tarrytown. The description of the strength of the West Point garrison provided by Arnold was found in André’s boot. The September 1780 treasonous plot has connections to more than 30 locations across Westchester, Rockland, Putnam and Orange counties.

RW250 programs will continue during the 250th nationally planned commemorative year of 2026 and then through 2033 to mark the full eight years of the American Revolution (1775-1783) that includes the anniversary of the betrayal.

This Man’s A Spy welcomes the involvement of all Westchester County organizations and individuals interested in the county’s history to assist in the planning and oversight of programs, and to share local and family stories related to the people, places and events associated with this significant historical event. Anyone who wishes to contribute to the preservation and interpretation of this critical period of local history should email ThisMansASpy@yahoo.com .