America 250 Symposium Cape & Islands in the Revolution
On Saturday, July 26, 2025, our chapter, in collaboration with the Falmouth Historical Society, hosted the Cape & Islands in the Revolution America 250 Symposium. Following introductory remarks by Falmouth Historical Society Executive Director, Rachel Lovett, and our Chapter Regent, Kathryn Illo, Dr. David Martin, President of the Marstons Mills Historical Society, introduced the program speakers. Ron Petersen, Chair of the Orleans Historical Commission and member of the Orleans Historic District Study Committee, delivered a presentation called "The Tea Party on Cape Cod: The Wreck of the William." Nancy Shoemaker, Town Historical Commissioner and historian of the Barnstable and West Barnstable Historical Societies, discussed West Barnstable’s Otis family and the September 27, 1774 march to the Court of Common Pleas.
The event was well received by all attendees and offered a fantastic opportunity to explore our rich heritage and celebrate the vibrant stories of our past. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our sponsors, the Falmouth Historical Society staff, Nancy Krug, our former Chapter Regent for her leadership in making this event happen, and everyone who joined us for this memorable occasion.
David S. Martin is past president of the Marstons Mills Historical Society and of the Cape Cod Genealogical Society. He has written several books and coordinated the 2020 Symposium on Cape Cod’s importance in the Plimoth Colony.
Ron Petersen is chair of the Orleans Historical Commission and serves on the Orleans Historic District Study Committee. He frequently writes and lectures about local history.
Nancy Viall Shoemaker is vice-chair of the Barnstable Historical Commission and historian of the Barnstable and West Barnstable Historical Societies. Nancy is a printer and graphic designer who has published over 70 books for local authors.
Questions? Please email Cape Islands Historians
Our Event Sponsors
Booje Calfee – In memory of the Halletts, “Falmouth was fortunate that Dudley & Julia Hallet were so instrumental in the Museums’ growth and played such a huge role in keeping Falmouth’s past alive.”
1775 Platinum Level
