America 250 Initiative Highlights Oyster Bay’s Revolutionary War Legacy

As part of the Town of Oyster Bay’s celebration commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States, Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board unveiled a new historical marker at Fort Hill, the final resting place of Robert Townsend, the Revolutionary War patriot known as “Culper Jr.” and one of General George Washington’s most trusted intelligence operatives. The marker commemorates both the Townsend family’s enduring contributions to American history and Oyster Bay’s important role in the nation’s founding.

“America’s fight for independence was won not only on battlefields, but through courage, sacrifice and intelligence gathering,” said Supervisor Saladino. “Robert Townsend risked everything to provide General Washington with critical information that helped secure victory in the Revolutionary War. As celebrate America’s 250th birthday, it is fitting that we honor one of Oyster Bay’s greatest patriots and preserve his remarkable story for future generations.”

Established in 1668, Fort Hill began as a private burial ground for the Townsend family. John Townsend and his brother Henry Townsend were signers of the Flushing Remonstrance of 1657, a landmark petition advocating religious freedom and one of the earliest expressions of religious liberty in colonial America. After facing persecution under Dutch Governor Peter Stuyvesant, the family relocated to Oyster Bay in search of greater freedom.

More than a century later, Robert Townsend would play a pivotal role in the American Revolution. Operating under the alias “Culper Jr.” as part of Washington’s famed Culper Spy Ring, Townsend gathered valuable intelligence from British-occupied New York City. His reports were secretly transmitted through a network of couriers and whaleboats, ultimately reaching Washington’s headquarters and helping shape military strategy during the war.

Following his father’s death in 1790, Townsend returned to the family home, now known as Raynham Hall Museum, where he lived until his death in 1838. His identity as Washington’s secret agent remained hidden for nearly a century until historian Morton Pennypacker uncovered the truth in 1930.

“The Town of Oyster Bay is proud to preserve and share the stories of the individuals who helped shape our nation,” added Town Clerk Richard LaMarca. “This marker will serve as a lasting tribute to Robert Townsend’s patriotism and remind visitors that Oyster Bay played a significant role in America’s struggle for independence.”

Town Clerk LaMarca noted that any residents who are interested in engaging in some form of family research of their own may do so through ancestral services offered by his office. For more information, visit oysterbaytown.com or contact the clerk’s office at (516) 624-6332.