TVHS acquires Abraham Woodhull's books at auction
- development020
- Sep 18, 2023
- 2 min read
There is no doubt that Long Island played a major role in the success of the American Revolution.
In fact, Setauket was home to numerous individuals who comprised a network of clandestine intelligence operatives known as the Culper Spy Ring.
One of those Setauket spies was Abraham Woodhull (1750-1826).
Woodhull, known for his alias Samuel Culper Sr., resided in British-Occupied Setauket during the war and used invisible ink to send encoded messages of enemy troop movement to General George Washington.
Unfortunately, there are few artifacts and belongings of Woodhull’s which survived, both through the passage of time as well as the 1931 fire that razed his former home.
On July 26th, 2023, the Three Village Historical Society (TVHS) acquired two books at auction that belonged to the Woodhull family, one of the books bearing Abraham Woodhull’s signature.
These books hold promise as a cultural resource for the community, and for their research potential of Three Village history and the history of our nation.
The society welcomes researchers who wish to study these historical objects further.
The Three Village Historical Society is currently exhibiting the Woodhull books for a limited time.
These books can be viewed at TVHS headquarters located at 93 N Country Rd, East Setauket NY
Thursday, Saturday, Sunday 12 – 4 pm
Friday 2 – 6 pm during our weekly Farmers Market
Admission to SPIES! How a group of Long Island Patriots helped George Washington win the Revolution
$5 Children & Students
$10 Adults
Free for Members
Write Up courtesy of Scott Ferrara, Exhibits & Collections Coordinator
Photographs courtesy of Kimberly Phyfe, Development Coordinator
Acknowledgments: Acquisition of these historical items would not have been possible without the combined efforts of the Three Village Historical Society’s Staff and Trustees. Specifically, the Collections Committee comprised of Christina Tortora Ph.D., Brian Bennett and Judi Wallace, as well as Brookhaven Town Historian Barbara Russell, Three Village Historian Bev Tyler, the Society’s director Mari Irizarry, and President of the Board of Trustees, Jeff Schnee.
I recently visited a local historical society exhibit and was fascinated by the stories of covert operatives like Abraham Woodhull during the American Revolution. Learning how he used invisible ink to relay messages to George Washington was truly eye-opening and highlighted the creative risks taken by patriots. It reminded me how history is preserved through delicate artifacts and the community's dedication to keeping these stories alive. After a day of history, it’s nice to unwind with some light entertainment-games like Block Blast offer a fun way to relax and recharge.
Grateful to the Three Village Historical Society's team (Christina Tortora, Brian Bennett, Judi Wallace), Brookhaven Town Historian Barbara Russell, Bev Tyler, director Mari Irizarry, and president Jeff Schnee. Their collaborative dedication enabled acquiring significant historical items. Playing Wordle Unlimited celebrates ingenuity like theirs!
What a fascinating glimpse into the pivotal role Long Island played during the American Revolution! The story of Abraham Woodhull and the Culper Spy Ring highlights the ingenuity and bravery of those who fought for independence. As we explore these historical treasures, it’s a reminder of how vital documentation is in preserving our past. For anyone needing assistance with academic writing or research, our lab report writing services can help ensure your findings are presented with clarity and precision.
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