Our American Stories

Before Thanksgiving, New Yorkers Celebrated Evacuation Day

July 30, 2026·17 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

On this episode of Our American Stories, most Americans learn that the Revolutionary War ended at Yorktown. Fewer know the British Army occupied New York City for two more years before finally sailing away on November 25, 1783. For generations, New Yorkers celebrated that day as Evacuation Day, one of the city's biggest holidays.Our American Stories regular contributor Bill Bryk shares the remarkable story of the British departure, George Washington's triumphant return to New York, and the forgotten celebration that once rivaled Thanksgiving. Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)Support the show: https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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