George Washington returns to New Utrecht to share his story
In advance of his February 22 birthday, George Washington, his personal bodyguard alongside him, visited the New Utrecht Reformed Church where he reminisced to an audience about his life and accomplishments.
People both young and old showed up at the church’s parish house, 1827 84th Street, to listen to the former president — portrayed by Michael Grillo — speak. Among the crowd, Matthew Sterling and Michael Fame, both history enthusiasts, dressed in 18th century garb to show their excitement.
The event was run by the Friends of Historic New Utrecht(FHNU), whose president Dave Elligers introduced the organization, its mission and its efforts to restore the church. Later, Elligers invited Washington’s bodyguard to come out and speak about his duties, uniform and weapons.
Following his introduction, he stood to the side during the main event, a speech by former President of the United States, George Washington.