Caught: Patriots Detain British Spy

If not for three Patriot militiamen, residents of Westchester might still speak with a trace of a British accent and enjoy tea in the afternoon. But, when British Major John André was captured in Tarrytown on September 23, 1780 the plot by American General Benedict Arnold to turn over the Patriot garrison at West Point was foiled and the war for independence continued for another three years to a successful conclusion for the Patriot side. The three militiamen -- John Paulding, Isaac Van Wart and David Williams -- received personal thanks from General George Washington in a house that still stands in Cortlandt.

Revolutionary Westchester 250 (RW250), under the leadership of President Constance Kehoe, 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 in 1776, many local events preceding, during and after the Revolutionary War will be recognized by RW250.

“RW250 is collaborating with local and regional groups to promote heritage tourism and to enhance the experience of the war for independence for Westchester residents,” said Kehoe, a resident of Irvington. “We are working with heritage and historic, art and cultural, and educational organizations along with libraries, veterans’ organizations, municipalities, private businesses and others to commemorate Westchester County’s contribution to the 250th anniversary of the founding of this great country. Treason and a spy – and, thankfully, quick-thinking Patriots – in our midst are part of our story."

This Man’s A Spy

Recognizing the people, events and sites related to what General George Washington described as “treason of the blackest dye,” RW250 is launching an aptly named initiative – This Man’s A Spy. See the entire announcement here.

This Man’s A Spy will feature the stories about all the Patriots of Westchester County who were responsible for the capture of André and revealing Arnold’s plot. If Arnold’s plan had been successful, the loss of West Point could have led to an American defeat.

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Watch the RW250 video about the plot here.

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Co-chaired by county residents Lynn Briggs and Bob Fetonti, This Man's A Spy will create community awareness, understanding and enthusiasm for the historical significance of this critical event in U.S. history through a variety of public outreach programs.

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 .