Oyster Bay, New York – With anticipation building towards the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Raynham Hall Museum in Oyster Bay is already looking ahead to the historic occasion. With that in mind, Assemblymember Charles Lavine (D-North Shore) has secured a $30,000 grant for the museum, which will go towards educational programs and events commemorating the momentous events of 1776 and of the Revolution. Lavine, a long-time supporter of the national landmark, announced the grant during a visit on September 19th, where he met with the museum’s executive director, Harriet Gerard Clark, and colleagues. 

Assemblymember Charles Lavine said: “It is my honor to have secured this funding, which will help people of all ages learn about one of the most fascinating elements of our history: George Washington’s Culper spy ring, a key element in the Revolutionary War, which was centered right here in our own backyard. I am looking forward to seeing what special programs are arranged for this great and historic occasion.”

Harriet Gerard Clark said: “The 250th is the perfect occasion to celebrate the remarkable, resilient people whose actions helped our nation on the road to freedom from despotic rule. We are enormously grateful to Chuck Lavine for his steadfast support of this museum and for his love of history! We are planning a full calendar of events for next year, and we invite the public to keep an eye on our website (raynhamhallmuseum.org) for details.”