A Revolutionary Day featuring Sheldon’s Horse: the Second Regiment Light Dragoons

"Sheldon's Horse," the Second Continental Light Dragoons, was formed under the command of Colonel Elisha Sheldon in December, 1776 at the direct request of General Washington. The regiment consisted of six troops, comprised largely of men from Connecticut, augmented by two companies of light infantry. The regiment saw action during vairous battles and also performed as the first U.S. "pony express" relaying messages along a string of express rider stations between Washington's headquarters and the nrothern colonies. The regiment served as advanced scouts for the American army and earned the title "Washington's eyes." The regiment also became "Washington's ears" in Talmadge's "Culper spy ring" on Long Island. In 1781, the regiment became the first American unit to conduct a combined combat operation with our French allies in Tarrytown, NY and today a monument to the battle stands at the train station. Sheldon's Horse was never officially disbanded making it unique among all Continental regiments.

Today's Dragoons: founded in 1978, Sheldon's Horse is a reestablished military organization which participates in civic, ceremonial and educational activities througout the Northeast. They will give us a glimpse of cavalry life during the American Revolution. We look forward to welcoming the troops and their horses to teh Homestead for educational displays, artillery and cavalry demonstrations, crafts and more.