French Alliance Programs part of Nine Months in York Town celebration

While Continental Congress was meeting in York Town in 1777 - 1778, France pledged its support by officially adopting the Treaty of Amity and Commerce and the Treaty of Alliance. These first international treaties recognized the Colonies as an independent nation and assured France's essential financial, military and naval support of the American cause. In recognition of the 225th anniversary of the signing of the treaties, numerous programs will be held during the month of May. A free presentation "The French Influence on the American Revolution" will be held at the Heritage Senior Center in Dover May 1, at 10 am, and at the Delta Senior Center on May 22 at 11 am. During these 1-hour programs, Richard Banz, Chief Curator, of the York County Heritage Trust will discuss the signing of the French treaties and the influences the French have had on the American military. Justine Landis, Curator of Decorative Arts and Historic Houses, will present the French influence on American culture, including paintings, clothing and furniture. The public is invited to attend these programs. Reservations are not required. - More - French Alliance Programs - page 2 of 2 During the Olde York Street Fair on Sunday, May 11, free activities highlighting the French Alliance will be held at the Colonial Court House and the Historical Society Museum. A Revolutionary War encampment will be set up on the grounds of the Colonial Court House at the corner of N. Pershing Avenue and W. Market Street in downtown York. Interpreters, portraying Colonial soldiers and townspeople, will demonstrate the numerous influences the French have had on the American Army and way of life. Activities include firing exhibitions with French muskets, cooking, and kids' crafts and games. Free hourly tours of the Colonial Court House will be offered. The Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor at the Historical Society Museum, 250 E. Market Street, will feature French décor. There will be a cost for refreshments. "Nine Months in York Town" is a celebration of the Continental Congress' stay in York from September 1777 through June 1778. More information about the May programs and other upcoming events is available by logging on to www.yorkheritage.org and clicking on the Nine Months in York Town logo or by calling 848-1587.

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