NEW ROCHELLE, NY (June 25, 2026) — The New Rochelle Council on the Arts is presenting an exhibit titled “It Happened Here: Life in New Rochelle During the American Revolution” at the Rotunda Gallery in City Hall. The exhibit will run from July 1 through September 11.
The exhibit explores the historical significance of New Rochelle during the Revolutionary War, focusing on the period when British General William Howe stationed nearly 10,000 troops there in October 1776. This era marked New Rochelle as part of the “Neutral Ground,” a lawless area between British-occupied New York and Patriot-held lands.
Curating the Past
The exhibit is curated by Barbara Davis and Theresa Kump Leghorn, with design by Susan Nagib. It features early records, maps, and eyewitness accounts juxtaposed with modern images by photographer Adam Pape.
“During this period New Rochelle was part of the so-called ‘Neutral Ground,’ which to modern ears sounds safe,” said curator Barbara Davis. “But in fact it was more like a ‘no-man’s land of pillaging, plundering and strife.’
The NRCA, founded in 1975, aims to encourage the study and presentation of the performing and fine arts. The Council has sponsored various cultural events and is supported by ArtsWestchester and Westchester County.
About the Photographer
Adam Pape, a photographer based in New York City, is also a lecturer at SUNY Purchase. His work has been featured in numerous publications and exhibitions.
The exhibit can be viewed during business hours at City Hall, 515 North Avenue, New Rochelle. For more information, visit www.newrochellearts.org.
This article was prepared with the assistance of AI tools under the direction and editing of Robert Cox.
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