ThePort Washington Public Librarywill open a new exhibit exploring the area’s role during the American Revolution, shedding light on the hardships, divided loyalties and acts of quiet resistance that shaped life on the Cow Neck Peninsula during British occupation.

“Cow Neck in the Revolution” will be on display in the library’s History Center Annex from June 1 through Dec. 11, with an opening reception scheduled for Thursday, June 11, at 3 p.m. The exhibit is presented in collaboration with theCow Neck Peninsula Historical Societyas part of commemorations marking 250 years of American independence.

The exhibit examines the seven-year British occupation of the area now known as Port Washington during the Revolutionary War. According to organizers, local residents were forced to house British troops, saw children pressed into military service and faced raids from pirates operating along the coast. While some residents openly supported the Patriot cause, others remained loyal to the British Crown, and some secretly aided the revolution while publicly appearing loyal to England.

“Much has been written about towns like Huntington and Oyster Bay, but I’m sure it will surprise people to learn just how much happened right here in Port Washington during the Revolutionary War,” said Liz Agramonte, head of local history at the library.

Agramonte said the exhibit draws from artifacts and archival materials held by both the library’s History Center and the historical society, focusing in part on the experiences of three local families connected to the war.

“Our town has such incredible local history, and it has been a pleasure to collaborate with the Cow Neck Peninsula Historical Society to bring it to life,” she said.

Among the featured artifacts is a royal pardon issued by King George III to local resident Thomas Dodge on Jan. 30, 1777. The document, from the Dodge Collection at the library’s History Center, was granted after Dodge formally swore allegiance to the Crown.

According to exhibit materials, Dodge privately sympathized with the American cause but publicly professed loyalty to British authorities to protect his family and retain his Cow Neck homestead during the occupation. He later secretly assisted the Patriots by smuggling gunpowder for the Continental Army.

The exhibit will be open to the public beginning June 1.

Source: LI Press