The 9th Annual American Revolution Hessian Christmas Party and Tree Lighting, an event blending history, culture, and community, is set to take place on Dec. 7. Organized by the Cedar Swamp Hill Historical Society, the Underhill Society of America, and other local groups, the celebration honors Hessian soldiers who played a complex role in the American Revolution.
The event begins at East Hillside Cemetery in Glen Head, where several Hessians—German soldiers hired by the British during the Revolution—are buried in unmarked graves. Steve Russell Boerner, one of the organizers, noted the significance of commemorating these individuals, whose histories have long been overlooked.
“We’re trying to have a spirited, intellectual discussion about how complicated this all is, and how relevant it is today,” Boerner said. “It’s not black and white.”
The Hessians are credited with introducing elements of Christmas culture, such as the decorated Christmas tree, to America. At the cemetery, attendees will gather around a tree Boerner planted years ago to honor the soldiers. Now standing over 10 feet tall, the tree is central to the ceremony.
Boerner, a local historian, emphasized the importance of recognizing New York’s pivotal role in the Revolution, often overshadowed by narratives centered on New England and Virginia.
“This area was deeply divided, with families pitted against each other,” Boerner said. “Oyster Bay was mostly Loyalist, but I would say we were actually more apathetic.”
The celebration begins with a solemn procession to the cemetery, led by a bagpiper and drummer. Boerner will offer remarks on the Revolution and the ongoing research into Hessian history. Guests will join in caroling, including a rendition of “O Tannenbaum” in German, before the tree is lit.
After the tree lighting, attendees will head to the Reformed Church of Locust Valley’s Fellowship Hall in Lattingtown for a festive evening featuring a catered German dinner, live Christmas music, and desserts. Traditional German dishes such as bratwurst and sauerkraut will be served alongside eggnog and other seasonal beverages.
In keeping with the spirit of giving, attendees are encouraged to bring gifts for Ronald McDonald House and New Ground, a local nonprofit supporting homeless families.
Boerner revealed plans to expand the historical society’s efforts beyond the event. In January, the group will establish a permanent space for meetings and exhibits, and an Urban Forestry Initiative will launch in spring.
“We’re combining history with conservation,” Boerner said. “We’ll plant a Hessian Christmas tree from a farm in Pennsylvania as part of Arbor Day celebrations, connecting the past with the present in a tangible way.”
Boerner is also working with researchers in Germany to identify the Hessian soldiers buried at East Hillside Cemetery. The goal is to install a plaque by next year, offering a definitive account of their history.
“From the beginning, the guiding principle has been ‘all welcome,’” he said. “It’s not about celebrating an enemy—it’s about understanding our shared history and building community.”
The first two parts of the event—the cemetery ceremony and the tree lighting—are free and open to the public. Tickets for the dinner are available in advance.
For more information or to RSVP for the dinner, contact Boerner at stevenrussell1970@gmail.com.
