On Sunday, April 10, the Ridgefield Historical Society was presented with an America 250 Commendation by the recently formed Cannon Ridge Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR). The Commendation recognizes the RHS’s “extraordinary efforts to honor the men and women who achieved American independence and educate others about their service and sacrifice.” Awards were also presented to the Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center and local historian, Jack Sanders.
Fittingly, the RHS commendation was accepted by Sharon Dunphy, past president of the Ridgefield Historical Society and project director of the National Park Service American Battlefield Protection Program grant, managed by RHS, which is supporting in-depth research and study of the 1777 Battle of Ridgefield. The grant was awarded following the 2019 discovery of skeletal remains in Ridgefield.
“The discovery of those skeletons was an absolute surprise that opened up a whole new chapter of interest and discovery in the Battle of Ridgefield and its role in the Revolutionary War,” says Dunphy, who was already a student of the Battle. “We are now learning new details about the battlefield, the soldiers, and the town Loyalists that have not been wholly examined in past. We are also more fully understanding the importance of the Battle of Ridgefield in swaying patriotic sentiment in the colonies, and ultimately influencing the outcome of the Revolution.”
All three recipients of the America 250 commendations received a certificate of commendation and a medal, as well as an additional certificate of commendation and congratulations from U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal.
The RHS greatly appreciates NSDAR’s recognition of our work, and congratulates them on their founding. “Ridgefield has such a rich, interesting history,” says Dunphy, “and we look forward to collaborating to preserve and share it.”
