American Revolution 250th Anniversary Committee

Overview

The Town of Guilderland 250th American Revolution Committee (also referred to as the American Revolution 250th Anniversary Committee or REV250 Committee) serves as the official local body tasked with planning and coordinating commemorative activities in Guilderland, New York, leading up to and during the nation's Semiquincentennial—the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026 and the broader Revolutionary War era (1775–1783). Established following a 2024 Town Board decision to form such a committee, it works in alignment with statewide (New York State 250th Commemoration Commission) and county-level (Albany County USA-250) efforts to highlight Guilderland's specific historical contributions, including the active participation of local farmers in the war, their supply of foodstuffs to the Continental Army, and events like the Battle of Normanskill. Chaired by local historian Don Rittner and Aaron Mair, the committee organizes public forums, educational programs (such as book discussions on Revolutionary history), tree-planting initiatives (e.g., heritage New York apple trees to symbolize deep agricultural roots and wartime support), community events, and partnerships with groups like the Guilderland Historical Society and Guilderland Public Library to foster civic engagement, educate residents about the town's Revolutionary heritage, and encourage participation in meaningful, inclusive celebrations that reflect on both the ideals of the founding and their ongoing evolution. Meetings are held regularly at Guilderland Town Hall, and the committee aims to create lasting public awareness and pride in the area's role over the next several years.

Meetings

  • 3:00 pm
  • 3rd Wednesday of every month
  • Town Hall
    5209 Western Turnpike
    Town Board Meeting Room
    Guilderland, NY 12084

Members

  • Aaron Mair, Co-Chair
  • Don Rittner, Co-Chair
  • Gardner Gurney 
  • John Haluska 
  • Mary Ellen Johnson, Town Historian
  • Christine Napierski
  • Gustavo Santos 
  • Karen White