During the American Revolution Loyalists across New York were displaced by political violence, turning many into refugees. Those who remained in their homes often faced public censure and a struggle to make ends meet.
Many Loyalists in New York were targeted first by Committees of Safety, then Commissioners of Sequestration, and after the state legislature passed the 1779 Act of Attainder, by Commissioners of Forfeiture, as they found themselves dispossessed of their homes and properties. (Read about these committees here.)
During and after the war, some Loyalists escaped into self-imposed exile, while others were formally exiled from the colony on pain of death.
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site and Johnson Hall State Historic Site are partnering to highlight the experiences of Loyalists in New York during a public virtual symposium, “Declaring Dependence: Loyalist in Revolutionary New York” on November 14-15, 2026 online via WebEx.
Featuring scholars and researchers from around the country, this two-day virtual symposium covers a wide variety of topics on Loyalists in locations throughout New York, including Manhattan and the greater New York City area, the Mohawk River Valley, and Long Island.
Keynote speakers include professor and historian Ruma Chopra, author of Unnatural Rebellion: Loyalists in New York City During the Revolution and Todd Braisted, historian and author of Grand Forage 1778: The Battleground Around New York City. Braisted also manages Loyalist Studies Institute.
Registration is free and open to everyone, supported by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation (State Parks). For the full symposium schedule, visit this website.
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