The sound of muskets and cannons firing reverberated throughout Green-Wood Cemetery on Sunday, August 25, as history buffs from near and far converged on the old burying ground to mark the 237th anniversary of the Battle of Brooklyn, which was fought, in part, on the rolling hills of the cemetery.
Among those who came together to honor those who had fought and died during the early battle of the American Revolution were Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley, cemetery representatives and members of the Battle of Brooklyn Memorial Society, which arranges for the re-enactments that are a key facet of the day’s activities.
Besides the battle and 18th century life re-enactments, the day included also a march past an array of Revolutionary War era flags to the summit of Battle Hill, Brooklyn’s highest point, where the state of Minerva waves to the Statue of Liberty, some three and a half miles away in New York Harbor.
Another highlight was the reading of the names of the Maryland 400, the militia members who early in the skirmish made a spirited defense of the nearby Old Stone House that enabled George Washington and his troops to make their escape from Brooklyn so they could continue the struggle for independence at another place and time.
Angus Hendry with sailor behind him.
A child examines a tombstone.
A young soldier waits for the call.
Cook Caroline Capehart, prepares a fish in 18th century style.
Marchers carry flags up to Battle Hill.
The white-coats advance.
The cannon is fired at the Battle of Brooklyn reenactment in Green-Wood Cemetery. (BROOKLYN MEDIA GROUP/Photos by SB News)
SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.
ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.
