The city of Beacon was formed from two villages: Fishkill Landing and Matteawan, in 1913. In the days of the revolution, this region was known primarily as “Rombout’s Patent,” after the Dutch trader who purchased the land from the Wappinger tribe. Beacon’s location on the Hudson River gave it great strategic importance for Washington and his army. Here, among the bustling military ports and peaceful country homesteads, both illustrious figures and ordinary folk worked together to light the spark of liberty. This map explores 20 places - and tells 20 stories - that illustrate Beacon’s role in America’s beginning.

Visit the Beacon Historical Society to receive a free copy of this map (with stories on verso) and learn more about Beacon’s role in the American Revolution. An exhibition will be forthcoming in the spring of 2026. This project was paid for in part by Dutchess County.