Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary at the historic Sands-Willets House in Port Washington on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 12-4 p.m. Admission is free!

The Cow Neck Peninsula Historical Society will mark America’s 250th anniversary with a special open house celebration on Saturday, July 25, from 12-4 p.m. at the historic Sands-Willets House at 336 Port Washington Blvd. in Port Washington.

The event will honor the Revolutionary-era legacy of the Sands family and the role the Cow Neck Peninsula played in the fight for independence. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the circa 1735 Sands home, where the seven sons of John Sands III were born and raised, becoming Patriots during the American Revolution.

As visitors explore the property, Revolutionary War reenactors and period music will help recreate the spirit of the era. The Historical Society will also honor local Patriots buried in family cemeteries in the Port Washington area.

At the July 25 event, knowledgeable docents will be on hand, sharing stories of colonial life, Revolutionary-era events and the peninsula’s rich local history.

For this special anniversary event, visitors can peruse all 10 rooms of the Sands-Willets House, a rare opportunity to wander through the historic property at their own pace. Visitors can also explore the Society’s circa 1690 Dutch Colonial barn, which houses antique farming and shell-fishing implements.

Free parking at Vincent Smith School.

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