Westchester’s Revolutionary Youth: Gen Z of 1776

Imagine being a teen or twentysomething in Westchester County, NY, during the Revolutionary War. You’d envision a very different life, but could you envision life in Westchester—the war’s notorious “Neutral Zone”— sandwiched between two warring armies?

Westchester County was a prized location then, just like now. British Loyalists and American Patriots hope to secure the 150-square mile prime Westchester real estate for its strategic proximity to New York City and the Hudson River for moving supplies and troops. Caught in the middle, Westchester became a lawless no-man’s land, described as “a country in ruins” by one of the war’s chief chroniclers, Dr. James Thatcher.

Though the term Neutral Zone paints a picture of an area that’s conflict-free, Westchester was a cauldron of chaos. Bandits known as “Cow-boys” and “Skinners” terrorized residents, stealing livestock and valuables and destroying property. Many fled. Those who remained faced devastating food shortages. As older males joined the war, Westchester’s children had to step up to plow fields, feed and guard livestock, and protect their families from raids.

In 1776, Gen Z—youth ages 13-28—were caught in the crossfire. But they didn’t just sit on the sidelines. Resourceful and courageous, many helped shape American history, demonstrating grit beyond their years. As messengers, scouts, guides, and informants, they navigated tough terrain while dodging enemies and marauders. But some young men, and even some women, went further by joining the Continental Army.

A commemoration of Westchester County’s 250th Revolutionary War history must also honor its remarkable youth. Here are the stories of brave young people who rose with courage to help secure life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for generations to come.

Unsung and Underage: Westchester Patriots

Despite a 16-year-old enlistment requirement, many young men were keen on joining the Continental Army. For them, war was an adrenaline-packed escape from the drudgery of farm life. Some boys as young as 10 joined by lying about their age or getting parental consent. They often served in non-combat roles as messengers or as the regiment’s fife or bugle player.

One young man, however, greatly influenced Westchester’s Revolutionary War history. Captain George Hurlbut, a Connecticut native, was just nineteen when he fought in the Battle of Bunker Hill. He later became a Captain in George Washington’s “Life Guards” or 2nd Continental Dragons. Captain Hurlbut displayed extreme bravery during “The Action at Tarrytown,” a pivotal battle that raged near its harbor, a vital supply point. He and a small group of men, armed only with swords and pistols, valiantly defended military supplies and extinguished fires on American sloops set by British forces. A musket ball wound from the battle plagued Captain Hurlbut’s health for years to come, contributing to his death in his late 20s. Today, a bronze tablet commemorating the battle and Captain Hurlbut sits outside Tarrytown Village Hall.

An Undercover Heroine

While not a daughter of Westchester County, Deborah Sampson certainly showed Westchester spirit when she disguised herself as a man and enlisted in the Continental Army at age 21. Sampson became part of the Massachusetts Regiments and was chosen to serve with the Light Infantry Troops—the most active troops in the Hudson Valley from 1782 to 1783. She also claimed that she fought during the siege of Yorktown. Despite injuries, she refused to seek medical aid, knowing her identity might be revealed. Her secret was eventually discovered two years later when she became sick during an epidemic. Despite breaking gender norms, Sampson was honorably discharged and was one of the first women to receive a military pension.

Washington’s Westchester Whisperer

John Odell, only 19, was a Westchester Militia volunteer who soon became one of General George Washington’s most trusted guides. Odell’s job was dangerous—he moved by night to track the enemy, lead hit-and-run raids, and keep Washington’s forces one step ahead. Odell was part of an elite group of scouts who knew Westchester’s wooded terrain well. Despite having a significant bounty on his head, Odell continuously evaded capture. He also saved many lives during a surprise attack near Philipse Manor Hall, where he persuaded panicked troops not to surrender and led them across the Saw Mill River to safety.

Pre-Revolutionary Resistance

Before the war, some Westchester teens risked their lives to protest injustice. Once such young man was Kofi, a teenage dock worker enslaved by Adolph Philipse, owner of Philipsburg Manor in Sleepy Hollow. At that time, the Philipse family was the largest enslavers in colonial New York. Kofi, also known as Cuffee, was separated from his father and brought to work in New York City unloading ships for the Philipses. Kofi was later accused of being a ringleader in the New York Conspiracy of 1741, an alleged plot to burn down New York City and kill white residents. At his trial, Kofi spoke in his defense about the injustices of slavery. In the end, Kofi and more than 30 others were executed. By bravely speaking out, Kofi created a spark of resistance against brutal oppression.

Today, young people in Westchester County share many similarities with their Revolutionary counterparts. They are committed to driving progress on issues like climate change, gun safety, and equal rights. They protest injustice, just like Kofi did. Others raise awareness on important issues, like Sybil Ludington and John Odell, by using modern technology and social media. Many serve their communities as volunteers and activists, like George Hurlbut and Deborah Sampson.

As we reflect on the 250th Anniversary of the Revolution, it’s clear that revolutionary youth are deeply rooted in Westchester’s history. Then and today, young people throughout Westchester County play an important role in shaping our history and our future.