The General Israel Putnam Branch No.4 of the SAR, in conjunction with Wood Memorial Library and Museum in South Windsor, is offering a series of Revolutionary War events during the six weeks, beginning October 12 through November 16. The focus for these programs is an exhibition ....ALIKE AS BROTHERS, UNITED IN ONE CAUSE....in the Wood Gallery.
These artworks, of rare and original renderings of American military uniforms, was compiled mid 20th c by the late James C. Tily, Captain, CEC, US Navy. Although his initial interest was primarily naval uniforms, his exhaustive study eventually covered all militia and the era of the American Revolution, 1755-1795. His work was published by The Company of Military Historians.
The exhibit title came from a petition by servicemen as early as 1778 for proper uniforms so that all may "appear alike as brother united in one cause." These drawings have been loaned by Tily's grandson, Carl J. Gimbrone of South Windsor, and his family.
To open the six-week series of events, the Connecticut Line Living History Color Guard Unit, SAR, will bivouac on Library grounds from 11 to 4 p.m. Monday, Oct. 12.
Two speakers, noted for their lecturing style and factual authority, will follow later in the month. On Wednesday evening, Oct. 21, at 7:30 p.m., the guest speaker will be George C. Neumann, whose topic will be: HOW WASHINGTON WON THE UNWINNABLE WAR. Neumann is the author of numerous books and articles on the American Revolution, and a consultant/participant for a major Revolutionary War multi-series TV project. He created the Neumann Collection of Revolutionary War Militaria now on display at the Valley Forge National Historical Park and has served on advisory boards for several historical/military organizations.
A popular lecturer, his venues have included the Smithsonian, West Point, and Valley Forge.
Mr. Neumann is looking forward to coming to Connecticut. He is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Wesleyan University in Middletown, with post graduate studies at both Princeton and Harvard, and is a native of New Britain. He saw active duty himself during World War 11, as a Lt. Junior Grade, USNR, in the Pacific Theater, 1944-1946. He is a retired CEO from several large corporations.
On Wed. Oct. 28 , at 7:30 p.m., guest speaker will be Rev. Paul F. Everett, whose great interest in 17th and 18th century American history stems from his family's roots in the America of the early 1630's. Ancestors fought in both the French and Indian War and the American Revolution. For his topic, THE BIRTHING OF THE STARS AND STRIPES, he will bring samples from his collection of historic flags, and include a prior history of banners and standards from the Middle Ages through the settlement on the Stars and Stripes for America. He is currently working on a book for young people on this subject.
Rev. Everett is a former Manhattan businessman turned Presbyterian minister. He was Executive Director of the Pittsburgh Experiment, an interdenominational ministry of the laity to the business and working community in Pittsburgh, PA. He continues to minister to the business community with articles in religious journals and newspapers, giving talks and leading retreats including those in prisons and penitentiaries. In 2005 he authored The Prisoner, a biography of a murderer who underwent a miraculous life-changing experience in prison. The book now enjoys a second printing.
Paul currently lives with his wife in Sherman, CT.