Revolutionary War Regiment Musters at Historic Manor

The sounds of musket drills and marching commands returned to the historic Manor of St. George in Mastic as members of the 3rd New York Long Island Regiment mustered in preparation for a major Revolutionary War reenactment.

Under the command of Patchogue resident Andrew Freleng, the living history organization recreates the experiences of Continental soldiers who fought for American independence beginning in 1775.

“We're not just dressing up and playing soldiers. We're honoring the men who left their homes and families 250 years ago to fight for independence,” Freleng said. “When we muster at a place like the Manor of St. George, we're standing on ground where that history actually happened.”

The original regiment included three companies recruited from Long Island communities, including Brookhaven, Southampton, East Hampton, Southold and Huntington.

The reenactors' gathering at the manor carries special historical significance. During the Revolutionary War, the property became a British stronghold known as Fort St. George until it was liberated in a daring November 1780 raid led by Colonel Benjamin Tallmadge. American troops were subsequently stationed at the manor.

“The Manor of St. George is a living connection to our nation's founding,” said Manor Trustee John Scott Prudenti. “Long Island played an important role in the American Revolution, and groups like the Third New York Regiment are essential to keeping that history alive for future generations.”

The regiment is preparing for the October 24–25 reenactment of the Battle of White Plains at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation in Westchester County, commemorating the 1776 engagement between George Washington's Continental Army and British forces.

“White Plains gives us an opportunity to show people what these soldiers experienced, from the discipline of military life to the hardships they endured in the field,” Freleng said.

Through authentic uniforms, military drills and reproduction firearms, the nonprofit organization continues honoring Long Islanders who sacrificed during America's fight for independence.