Wappinger marks 250th with town's first formal reading of the Declaration of Independence

Wappinger marked the 250th anniversary of American independence on July 4, 2026, with remarks from Town Supervisor Joseph D. Cavcini, a performance of the national anthem by resident Brendan Sohan and a formal, public reading of the Declaration of Independence by Town Clerk Joseph P. Paloney at Brexel Schlot House Park.

Supervisor Joseph D. Cavcini opened the program by congratulating attendees on the bicentennial milestone and thanking local volunteers and officials. "As always, it is a great honor and privilege to welcome you to Brexel Schlot House Park," Cavcini said, noting the "volunteer firefighters" of the Hackinack Fire Company and inviting other local elected officials and staff to the ceremony.

Resident Brendan Sohan performed the national anthem to applause, and Assemblyman Anil Bipan led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Town Clerk Joseph P. Paloney then offered a local history of Revolutionary War activity in the Hudson Valley corridor, describing troop movements through the region, defensive measures such as chains placed across waterways, and the role of nearby sites including Fort Washington and Fishkill. Paloney also referred to the displacement of local Native American communities, citing Daniel Ninham's people in his remarks.

Paloney concluded the historical remarks by reading the Declaration of Independence in full. He told the crowd this was the town's first formal reading of the Declaration and said the organizers hope to make it an annual July 4 observance. Portions of the declaration recited included, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal," and other passages read aloud for the assembled audience.

The ceremony closed with thanks to volunteers and staff who helped stage the program and with leaders wishing the crowd a happy Independence Day.

The program was largely ceremonial; there were no motions, votes or formal town actions recorded during the event. Organizers acknowledged several visiting officials and staff, including Councilwoman Heather Odell, Dutchess County legislator Kevin Giles, Fishkill town clerk Cooper Miles Leatherwood and Parks & Recreation Director Jessica Fulton, who were introduced from the stage.