Between 1839 and 1845 tenant farmers in New York State revolted against paying rents to the patroon system — a system of land ownership implemented by the Dutch in New Netherland that prohibited farmers from owning their land outright.
Disguising themselves in calico gowns and leather masks to demand change. Their struggle, known as the Anti-Rent War, helped shape the future of American democracy and land ownership.
The conflict was part of wider attempts to force broader democracy in the Jacksonian period during the economic disaster of the Panic of 1837, including the “Patriot” movement in Northern New York and Upper and Lower Canada (1837-1838), the Dorr Rebellion in Rhode island, the a new wave of political factions struggling to control Tammany Hall.
Although the New York Constitution of 1846 limited suffrage for Black American men, it also included democratic reforms such as added provisions for tenants’ rights, abolishing feudal tenures and outlawing leases lasting longer than twelve years.
After the Rent War and the 1846 Constitution the remaining Manors (including Cortlandt, Livingston and Rensselaer) dissolved quickly as the patroons sold off the lands.
The New York State Museum in Albany will host a special screening of Calico Rebellion: The Anti-Rent War and the Second American Revolution (2024, 75 mins), an award-winning documentary that brings to life one of New York’s most dramatic but often overlooked chapters of history.
Following the film, which is directed by Victoria Kupchinetsky, the filmmaker and members of the production team will lead a moderated discussion with the audience, offering insight into the making of the film, the legacy of the Anti-Rent movement, and the descendants who continue to preserve this story today.
This program is presented as part of New York State History Month, a time to celebrate and reflect on the people, events, and movements that shaped our state and nation.
This event will take place on October 5, 2025 at 2 pm at the Huxley Theater in the New York State Museum on Madison Avenue in Albany. Admission if free.
Read More about the Anti-Rent War.
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