In celebration of the Semiquincentennial of our nation, The Historical Society of Old Yarmouth is holding a series of commemorations, lectures, demonstrations & outdoor events.
Beginning with the June 5th grand re-opening day/weekend of the Captain Bangs Hallet House & Museum, there will be new exhibits, including on the Revolutionary War, highlighting Captain Joshua Gray commander of the local militia. Events will range from telling the stories of Yarmouth’s involvement in the American Revolution to showing how trades such as printing & glassmaking were performed in support of the war effort. Research by the Society indicates nearly 70% of Yarmouth males over the age of sixteen participated in the Revolution. A new monument commemorating these 445 participants will be dedicated with the celebration to include the State SAR Militia, demonstrations & insights from characters in period dress performing in plays or talking graveside in the Ancient Cemetery about a veteran’s service. Many will take place on June 20, 2026 as on this day in 1776, the inhabitants of Yarmouth raised a Liberty Pole & declared a state of independence from Great Britain, two weeks before the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress. More events will occur through July 4th & the summer, concluding with a special marking of each grave of the Revolutionary War heroes of Yarmouth. Please visit https://www.hsoy.org/events to sign up.
