Washington made history here

Cantonment plans weekend activities New Windsor — Many places claim that “George Washington slept here.” But he spent far more time awake and making history in New Windsor and Newburgh than any other locations during the eight years of the Revolutionary War. The New Windsor Cantonment State Historic Site is celebrating the general’s birthday, and the 225th anniversary of the army camp, on Feb. 16 through 18. Most activities will take place outdoors or in buildings heated by fireplaces, so visitors should dress for the authentic experience of a winter camp. • Saturday, Feb. 16, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. — Learn how the Cantonment was built, changing in six weeks from a forest to a massive military base housing 7,500 Continental Army soldiers and some 500 of their wives and children. House restoration specialist Norm Glass from Pennsylvania will conduct ongoing talks and demonstrations on the types of tools and techniques used to craft timber and stone buildings over 200 years ago. Demonstrations of blacksmithing and 18th-century medicine will also be held. The day’s activities are sponsored by the Friends of the State Historic Sites of the Hudson Highlands. • Sunday, Feb. 17 — Revolutionary War troops take to the field from 1 to 4 p.m. for demonstrations of musket firing and field maneuvers. Two of Washington’s extraordinary officers, who died 225 years ago, will also be remembered. Visitors of all ages will have the opportunity to “enlist” in the army, drilling with wooden muskets and drawing “pay” for their service. • Monday, Feb. 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. — Games and demonstrations will show the celebrations and pastimes that gave soldiers and their families a break from their usual routine. Toys will be available for the youngest guests to enjoy. Also open this weekend are the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, located at the same site, and Washington’s Headquarters in Newburgh, a short drive from the Cantonment. The New Windsor Cantonment and the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor are located on Route 300 (Temple Hill Road) in the Town of New Windsor, four miles east of Stewart Airport. It is three miles from the intersection of I-87 and I-84 in Newburgh.