CARMEL, NY - Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne joined members of the Enoch Crosby Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) at the Historic Courthouse this month to celebrate the organization’s 100th anniversary and announce a contribution toward the restoration of one of the county’s most iconic Revolutionary War monuments. 

As part of the celebration, DAR Regent Susan Rebentisch presented a $1,000 donation to support the “Restore Sybil” project, a comprehensive effort to rehabilitate the Sybil Ludington statue overlooking Lake Gleneida. 

The bronze equestrian statue, originally unveiled in 1961 and gifted to Putnam County in 1985, honors Sybil Ludington, whose legendary 1777 ride helped rally local militia forces during the Revolutionary War. 

“Putnam County is proud to partner with the Daughters of the American Revolution as they mark a century of preserving and promoting our nation’s history,” said County Executive Byrne. “Their generous contribution to the restoration of the Sybil Ludington statue ensures that this powerful symbol of courage and independence will continue to inspire future generations, especially as we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding.” 

The anniversary event included a commemorative gathering and reenactment photo on the courthouse steps, highlighting the DAR’s longstanding role in preserving local and national heritage. 

According to Putnam County Historian Jennifer Cassidy, the restoration effort has already garnered significant support through a growing public-private partnership. 

“The legend of Sybil Ludington is deeply rooted in Putnam County’s identity, and this restoration project is about more than preserving a statue, it’s about preserving a legacy,” said Cassidy. “Thanks to the collaboration between the County, the DAR, state and local partners, and private donors, we are ensuring that this monument remains a source of pride and education for generations to come.” 

To date, more than $100,000 has been committed to the project, with contributions from Putnam County, New York State Senator Pete Harckham, philanthropist George Whipple, the DAR, and others.

The restoration will include the temporary removal of the statue for specialized conservation work, including surface cleaning, patina restoration, and protective finishing. The statue’s fieldstone pedestal will also undergo inspection and repair by the Putnam County Department of Public Works. Additional site enhancements will include native plantings and landscaping improvements in coordination with Cornell Cooperative Extension, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, and the Brewster/Carmel Garden Club. 

The statue is expected to be removed following the upcoming 249th anniversary of Ludington’s ride later this month, with the goal of completing the restoration in time for the 4^th of July. 

The Sybil Ludington statue, located on land within the New York City watershed, has stood for more than six decades as a tribute to one of the region’s most enduring historical figures. Over time, exposure to the elements and prior damage has made restoration necessary to preserve its structural integrity and appearance.