Hosted by the FDR Presidential Library and Museum on Saturday, June 13, 2026, Dutchess County continues its commemoration of America’s semiquincentennial with RevCon 2026. Reenactors from the Brigade of the American Revolution will demonstrate military camp life, tactics, and weapons and answer questions about life in Revolutionary America. Examine Dutchess County’s role in the war at the accompanying history fair. Pose for photos with Dutchess Tourism's "Commander in Cheers" and hear stories of Dutchess County's revolutionary heroics as told by a pint-sized, augmented reality version of George Washington, "Tiny George."
Fun for all ages; free event (rain or shine). Registration is not required.
Author Talks and Signings
June 20, 2026
Roosevelt Reading Festival Henry A. Wallace Center
Time: 9:45am-5pm ET
On Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 9:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the FDR Presidential Library and Museum will host the annual Roosevelt Reading Festival. This day-long program will highlight the recently published work of fifteen authors – including a special America 250 afternoon presentation with Mary E. Stuckey, author of REMEMBERING JEFFERSON: WHO HE WAS, WHO WE ARE.
“Long a fan of Jefferson, FDR found him both personally inspiring and politically useful … considering Jefferson to represent the most important national values.” – Mary E. Stuckey
In six concurrent sessions taking place throughout the day, fifteen authors of works that draw upon the Roosevelt Library archives – or focus on the Roosevelt era – will present author talks (and book signings). Copies of all the books will be available for sale in the New Deal Store. The program begins at 9:45 a.m. with coffee and refreshments.
PLEASE NOTE: This program is in-person only. Sessions will be recorded for later broadcast.
New History Shorts
Mark Frost: The Yankee Sphinx
Now Available
Known for his work on Twin Peaks and Hill Street Blues, Mark Frost adapted the diaries of his great grand Uncle William Hassett, FDR's Correspondence Secretary, in a novel about FDR's time in office. An excerpt from a conversation with FDR Library Director William Harris. In this clip he tells a tragic story in the early life of Franklin Roosevelt.
Take a Closer Look: Stories from the Library Grounds
Now Available
FDR always planned for a Gatehouse to collect tickets at the entrance of the FDR Presidential Library and Museum, but he scaled back his plan when the cost estimates came back too high. Builder John McShane surprised the President with an unexpected option for this feature.
During WWII, service flags were displayed in many American homes. A blue star indicated a family member was serving in the military. A gold star signified a family member had died while in service. This handmade needlework flag was sent to FDR by the maker, Esther J. Cheals of Pasadena, CA.
