Members Attend Lafayette Ball At The Historic Sansay House.

After the wonderful events on The Morristown Green on Sunday, July 13, 2025, two members attended the Lafayette Ball at the historic Sansay House in Morristown. The event was a re-enactment of the ball held 200 years ago to celebrate Lafayette’s return visit to Morristown.

The Sansay House was the actual venue for the original ball, and the hosts, Dillard and Adrienne Kirby, of the contemporary party truly went all out to make this celebration memorable. The house entry was adorned with blue, white and red flowers in the gardens, in honor of the the Marquis’s home country. The “dining” room was set as though the Marquis and his hosts and guests had just finished a grand meal, while around the room were originals of correspondence from, and to, the Marquis owned by the Gilder-Lehrman Institute for American History – what a treat. Proceeding to the back yard, guests were treated with French champagne cocktails upon entry. The passed foods were delicious, French-themed wonders.

President Jeff La Marca and compatriot Ellis Bailey joined the approximate 130 guests in enjoying the festivities of toasts from the re-enactors, specially composed music from an ensemble from the Baroque Orchestra of New Jersey, and an exhibition of period dances by professional dancers from NYC and CT, in costume.

This was a wonderful event held by those that support the history and triumphs of America, and Morristown’s contributions.

The splendid Sansay House decorated for the Ball.

The Ensemble from the Baroque Orchestra of New Jersey.

The “Sansay’s” escorting their esteemed guest, “The Marquis de Lafayette.”

Jockey Hollow Members Host Table On The Morristown Green To Welcome Lafayette’s Return

Five compatriots staffed a table on The Morristown Green on Sunday, July 13, 2025 to celebrate the bicentennial of the Marquis de Lafayette’s farewell tour of America. The wonderful event brought more than an estimated 1000+ people out to visit the displays, watch and march in the parade, listen to the guest speakers and enjoy the Baroque Orchestra of New Jersey’s rendition of the specially composed music for the event.

President Jeff La Marca, in full uniform, along with Vice President Michael Smilek, Sergeant-at-Arms George Link, and compatriots David Paretti and Ellis Bailey were visited by many of the attendees, answering questions about the SAR, our chapter, and our projects. Numerous men completed forms to allow follow up for possibly joining the chapter.

The parade saw the arrival of the Marquis in horse drawn carriage, escorted by a fife and drum corps, dragoons from the 2nd Continental Light Dragoons, re-enactors from the 1st Rhode Island Regiment, cannon fire, church bells, other period re-enactors and townsfolk. Numerous town officials and re-enactors participated in the event. The Marquis circulated through the crowd, being welcomed by all, much like the event 200 years ago.

It was a wonderful day of camaraderie, enlightenment and celebration.

and at: https://morristowngreen.com/2025/07/14/lafayette-conquers-morristown-once-more/

Re-enactor Julie Diddell (Westfield Chapter, DAR)

Sargent-at-Arms George Link and President Jeff La Marca ready for visitors.

The Marquis de Lafayette (Michael Halbert), his escort Ned Hector (Noah Lewis) and event co-chair Carol Barkin.

Compatriots Enjoy the Symposium “The Marquis de Lafayette: Human Rights Champion.”

Two chapter compatriots enjoyed the symposium “The Marquis de Lafayette: Human Rights Champion” held on July 14, 2025 at the Morris County Library in Morristown. Over 120 people attended.

Prior to lunch, Alan Hoffman, President of the American Friends of Lafayette, presented “Lafayette and the Anti-Slavery Cause” and Diane Windham Shaw, Curator Emerita, Lafayette Collections of Lafayette College, presented “Lafayette and Human Rights”. Both presentations were excellent and provided great insight to the hero’s beliefs and actions.

After lunch, a panel, moderated by Chuck Schwam, Executive Director of the American Friends of Lafayette, included the two presenters in addition to John Becica (author and historian), Pat Sanftner (DAR past state historian re-enacting a Quaker woman), and Leslie Bramlett (owner of “From the Grey Fortress” educational consultancy re-enacting Hannah Till, Washington’s cook who served Lafayette). The panel discussed various topics and questions about Lafayette and his role as human rights champion.

Compatriots David Paretti and Ellis Bailey enjoyed the presentations and discussions about the great leader.

Panel discussion and Q&A. Diane Windham Shaw, John Becca, Leslie Bramlett, Pat Sanftner, Alan Hoffman and moderator Chuck Schwam.

Jockey Hollow Members Attend “Father Anonymous” Play to Celebrate America 250

Four chapter members attended the June 21, 2025 presentation of the off-Broadway play “Father Anonymous” to celebrate America 250. The play “tells the story of America’s forgotten founder Dr. Joseph Warren and his more famous friends, Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and Paul Revere. Opening on the day of the Boston Massacre (1770), it closes with Joseph’s martyrdom at Bunker Hill (1775)” – https://fatheranonymousplay.com

The story of Joseph Warren is truly inspiring – the ultimate sacrifice so that we can have the opportunity to celebrate 250 years as a democracy.

President Jeff La Marca, Vice President Michael Smilek, and Compatriots George Robb and Ellis Bailey attended the wonderful play. Vice President Smilek is the Producer of the play and facilitated the event for the members. Everyone had a wonderful time at the outing.

The play is currently at the AMT Theater on West 45th Street, NYC

President La Marca and Vice President Smilek discuss the play during intermission.

Members George Robb, Michael Smilek, Jeff La Marca and Ellis Bailey enjoyed the outing.

Jockey Hollow to Attend an Off Broadway Play!

The Jockey Hollow Chapter, NJSSAR, the largest chapter in the state of New Jersey is on a roll! At our May 31st Chapter meeting, our new Vice President, Michael Smilek, was sworn in and also received the Outstanding Young Member (Joseph Plumb Martin) Medal.

Vice President Smilek is currently producing an “Off Broadway” play (it’s a mere block and a half west off of Times Square in NYC) entitled “Father Anonymous” that “tells the story of America’s forgotten founder Dr. Joseph Warren and his more famous friends, Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and Paul Revere. Opening on the day of the Boston Massacre (1770), it closes with Joseph’s martyrdom at Bunker Hill (1775)” – https://fatheranonymousplay.com

Not only will this showcase an intriguing story relevant to the founding of our country, but many of our Chapter members will be attending a performance on June 21st. Not only that, but our Chapter has already been mentioned in several articles, as well as publicity materials that promote the play! Huzzah, Compatriot Smilek!

IMPORTANT: Jockey Hollow Chapter members wishing to attend this great event should contact us IMMEDIATELY for receive a special offer!

R to L: Jockey Hollow President Jeff La Marca and Vice President Michael Smilek.

Jockey Hollow Members attend Battle of Monmouth Annual Luncheon

Three members of the chapter attended the June 7, 2025 NSSAR quarterly meeting celebrating the Battle of Monmouth. President Jeff La Marca, Past President Roger Loomis, and compatriot Ellis Bailey especially enjoyed the unique venue – aboard The USS New Jersey (BB-62) in Camden, NJ.

Prior to the luncheon, the Society held its State Board of Managers meeting. During this time, visitors could take a tour of the impressive ship, the largest battleship ever built and the most decorated in Navy history. BB-62 was built at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, just a short distance across the Delaware River from where she is docked now, and launched December 7, 1942—just a year after the Pearl Harbor Attack brought America into WWII. The size of the Iowa-Class ship made it easy to have the luncheon on the aft deck for the many members and visitors. Captain Baker, the last officer to captain the ship during military action in the Middle East, was a guest and told very interesting anecdotes about the great vessel and its crew. He explained that although currently not in active duty and serving as a living museum and memorial, the ship has been outfitted with modern weapons, is fully functional, and can get underway if called to duty.

Numerous awards and medals were presented during the luncheon to compatriots and guests for their service to the society and to the community. Following that, guest speaker Gary Ecelbarger, award-winning author of ten books and numerous other publications discussed his new work “George Washington’s Momentous Year 1777: Twelve Months that Transformed the Revolution, Philadelphia to Monmouth.” The Battle of Monmouth played a key role in this.

You can learn more about the USS New Jersey at https://www.battleshipnewjersey.org/

The USS New Jersey (BB-62) docked in Camden, NJ.

The color guard prepares to present the colors.

Jockey Hollow Chapter Holds Quarterly Meeting

The Jockey Hollow Chapter held its quarterly meeting on May 31, 2025 at The Exchange Restaurant in Rockaway, NJ. The lunch meeting began at 11:30 A.M. with special guest Chris Sands, President of NJSSAR.

Officer reports were delivered. President La Marca indicated volunteer help is needed for the following activities:

Grave Markings
Web Site Assistance (Newsroom)
Pomeroy Foundation Markers
Color Guard
Speakers Bureau
Education Committee
Liberty Tree

If you can help with any of these, please contact President La Marca.

The vote to ratify the newly prepared bylaws was conducted by ballot. The bylaws were ratified by the membership.

An update of the Wreaths Across America program was given, indicating that the chapters transferring its support to the First Presbyterian Church/ United Methodist Church Cemetery in Succasunna so that we can work with the Ferro Monte DAR Chapter that runs the program. Volunteers will be needed, with more information to come.

Initiation of the new Vice President, Michael Smilek, was done by President La Marca. President La Marca also initiated new members George Kirby and Jake Hays.

Compatriots were recognized with awards and medals for service to the chapter and community. Members were presented the awards by President La Marca or President Sands, followed by a hearty, “Huzzah, huzzah, huzzah!”

The fascinating featured presentation, “Cudjo ‘Jack’ Banquante: Newark’s Revolutionary War Soldier and First Black Businessman,” was delivered by special guest speaker Kofi Ayim. His enlightening speech recounted the remarkable life and indomitable spirit of Cudjo Banquante—who was born into Ghanaian royalty, sold into slavery, and later substituted for his master in the Revolutionary War. He fought gallantly in many major battles and, upon earning his freedom, was granted an acre of land. With this, he became Newark’s first documented Black businessman—at the age of seventy. Mr. Ayim spends his time in Newark and in Ghana and has authored three books.

Michael Smilek received the Outstanding Young Member Medal (Joseph Plumb Martin Medal).

James Naisby received the Roger Sherman Bronze Medal and the NSSAR Color Guard Challenge Coin.

David Paretti received the Henry Knox Achievement Bronze Medal.

Jeff La Marca received the NSSAR Color Guard Challenge Coin.

Jockey Hollow Members Attend Anniversary of General Lafayette’s Historic Visit to General Washington in Morristown.

Two members of the Jockey Hollow Chapter attended the Salute to Lafayette on May 10, 2025 on The Morristown Green. President Jeff La Marca and compatriot Ellis Bailey attended the ceremony on the beautiful spring morning to celebrate the kick-off of the 2025 celebration activities for General Lafayette, marking the 245th anniversary of his historic visit to General George Washington at the Ford Mansion in Morristown, when he delivered the news that France would support the fight for freedom. The event was held around the Alliance Statue, depicting Washington, Lafayette and Hamilton to commemorate the event. Morristown Mayor Doherty and other officials spoke and attended, as well as reenactors of General Lafayette and a colonial singer. This was prelude to the celebration of the 200th anniversary of Lafayette’s return to Morristown in July, 1825. A memorable parade is planned and festivities on The Morristown Green on Sunday, July 13, 2025 will include a table for the Jockey Hollow Chapter.

The Alliance Statue on The Morristown Green.

Singer Pat Sanftner from the Morristown Chapter DAR.

President La Marca and Compatriot Bailey honored to stand with the greats.

2025 Jockey Hollow Chapter Special Promotion

For Our May 31, 2025 Luncheon

Due to popular demand, the Jockey Hollow Chapter, SAR is proud to announce a special promotion designed to:

Promote our Chapter within the community,
Show off our “Jockey Hollow Pride” (Yes, we’re the greatest chapter of all time!),
Increase awareness of our Chapter’s activities,
Encourage attendance at our luncheons/meetings, and
Build some espirit du corps!

So, what exactly does this entail? Specifically, Jockey Hollow now has an Official Chapter Baseball Cap! This cap is made by the same company that produces those for the National Society, Sons of the American Revolution and is shown below.

The Official Jockey Hollow Chapter, SAR Baseball Cap!

The cost for this cap is the same that National SAR charges for theirs – $25. However, we realize that this is such an incredible bargain that our members will want two – one to wear to our meetings and one for everyday wear in the community! So, if you would like to purchase a second cap, you’ll not only be able to purchase the second one for $20, but you’ll also receive another bonus at no additional cost! Specifically, members purchasing the second cap will also receive (if they are eligible), the appropriate SAR Service Label Pin that demonstrates how many years (in five-year increments) they have belonged to SAR. While members may purchase these pins on their own directly from National (at a cost of $20 each), those purchasing a second cap from us will receive their appropriate pin at no additional cost.

What about Chapter members who have belonged to SAR for less than five years? Instead of receiving a service pin honoring their years of service to SAR, they will receive a “challenge coin” (or similar item).

How many years of service do I have?

The SAR service pin is awarded in five-year increments (e.g., 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 years etc.). Based on our latest statistics, please use the following table. In the event that you are a chapter member, and your name does not appear below, please contact us:

IMPORTANT!

In order to participate in the promotion, members must RSVP and register no later than Thursday, May 15, 2025, so that we may order everything in time for you to receive your items at our luncheon on May 31, 2025 (all caps, pins, etc. will be distributed at the meeting so that you will need to attend).

Don’t Want to Participate in our Special Promotion?

No problem! Merely register for our luncheon as usual.

Register Today!

Use the Attached RSVP Form & Select Your Option. Hope to see you on May 31, 2025!

Recognition and Celebration of Patriot Cudjo Banquante

Numerous organizations and leaders have teamed together to recognize, celebrate and honor a local Revolutionary War hero – Cudjo Banquante.

Cudjo Banquante was born sometime in the 1720s in the Gold Coast (now Ghana), West Africa into a family of royal heritage. As a youth he was taken by European slave traders across the Atlantic, eventually being purchased by the wealthy Coe family of Newark, New Jersey.

During the American Revolution, Benjamin Coe sent the enslaved Cudjo to fight as a substitute for himself in the war against the British. Cudjo served in the Essex County and Morris County militias. He took part in the Battles of Monmouth and Germantown. He was with George Washington at Valley Forge in the winter of 1777 and later served with General Sullivan at the Battle of Yorktown in 1781.

After the war Cudjo was emancipated for his military service. The Coe family gave him land in Newark on which he established a nursery selling ornamental plants. Cudjo was the first African American businessperson in Newark. He died in 1823 at around 100 years of age. He was buried in the cemetery of Newark’s Trinity Church, located where the New Jersey Performing Arts Center now stands. (Thanks to the organizing team for this wonderful biography.)

For more information about Cudjo Banquante’s life, go to the website of the New
Jersey Historical Society: www.jerseyhistory.org/cudjo/

Events in Newark, in late April and early May, include exhibits, unveiling of a commissioned painting, reenactors, specifically composed music performances, a genealogy workshop, film screenings, an academic symposium, bus tours, an historic marker unveiling, and more, supported by the Newark Museum of Art, the Greater Newark Conservancy, the New Jersey Historical Society, the Newark Public Library, the Amistad Commission, the Newark History Society, Rutgers University, the NJ Institute for Social Justice, the NJ Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), the DAR and others. Join dignitaries, politicians, civic leaders, composers, authors, performers, and many others in the celebrations.

The detailed schedule, more information and sign ups, can be found at: https://www.newarkhistorysociety.org/honoring-cudjo-banquante/