The Tri-Hamlet 250 Committee has started preparations for the United States’ 250th anniversary, organizing a kickoff event called “Fired Up for Freedom/Countdown to 250.” The event took place on July 19 at the Mastic Beach Property Owners Association and included music, food, and Revolutionary War re-enactors. The celebration is part of a larger effort to recognize local history and build community pride ahead of the nation’s semiquincentennial on July 4, 2026.
During the event, several William Floyd School District students were honored for their contributions to an art contest connected to the celebration. Students recognized in person included James Start (rising senior), Sophia Paulicelli (rising freshman), Tracy Rodney (rising sixth grader), and Jaylee Reyes (rising fifth grader). Other winners acknowledged but not present were Khrys Zapata (logo winner), Isabella Humberstone, Selena Henderson, Yuriladys Jimenez, and Jacob Romero.
The committee has planned a series of events over the next year. These include participation in the Chamber of Commerce of the Mastics and Shirley Christmas Parade, a community celebration on William Floyd’s birthday in December, educational programs about William Floyd and other founding fathers, a musical tribute in spring, involvement in Memorial Day activities with Arthur H. Clune American Legion Post 1533, and culminating festivities on July 4, 2026.
The Tri-Hamlet area includes historical sites such as the William Floyd Estate and Old Mastic House—the former home of Declaration signer William Floyd—as well as Manor of St. George. The latter was involved in Revolutionary War events like the Battle of Fort St. George where Elijah Churchill received what would become known as the Purple Heart for his actions under Major Benjamin Tallmadge.
Organizations partnering with or supporting these efforts include local civic groups such as Mastic Beach Property Owners Association, William Floyd Community Summit, Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library, Pattersquash Creek Civic Association, Marine Corps League East End, Arthur H. Clune American Legion Post 1533, Chamber of Commerce of the Mastics and Shirley, Daughters of the American Revolution chapters Col. Gilbert Potter and Col. Josiah Smith.
Local officials working with the committee are NYS Senator Dean Murray; NYS Assemblyman Joe DeStefano; Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine; Suffolk County Legislator Jim Mazzarella; Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico; Brookhaven Town Councilwoman Karen Dunne-Kesnig; and Fire Island National Seashore representatives.
Sponsors for these events include Beechwood Homes along with several local officials and organizations.
“The Tri-Hamlet 250 Committee looks forward to celebrating the 250th anniversary of America and the signing of the Declaration of Independence with the community!” stated organizers.
For further information about upcoming events or involvement opportunities related to America’s semiquincentennial celebrations in Tri-Hamlet communities, contact trihamlet250@gmail.com.