Members of the Jerusalem Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution gathered May 16 at the Old Jackson Family Cemetery to honor Revolutionary War veteran Thomas Jackson, linking a local piece of history to the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebration.
The ceremony took place at the historic cemetery on Wantagh Avenue, next to St. Frances de Chantal Church, where Jackson — a resident of the community when Wantagh was still known as Jerusalem — is buried.
The event also marked the 50th anniversary of a similar tribute held during the nation’s Bicentennial in 1976, when members of the Jerusalem Chapter DAR placed a bronze Revolutionary War veteran marker on Jackson’s grave.
“This was a wonderful opportunity to remember a local patriot and connect our community’s history with America’s founding,” said Alison Cook-Lorch, historian and publicity chairwoman for the Jerusalem Chapter DAR.
The ceremony was organized by Cook-Lorch, chapter Vice Regent Jennifer Turcinovic and Registrar Valerie D’Aguanno with oversight by regent Kay Kenney. The chapter decided to revisit Jackson’s gravesite as communities across the country begin commemorating America’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
Nassau County Legislator Kayla Knight performed “The Star-Spangled Banner,” while State Sen. Steve Rhoads and Hempstead Town Councilman Chris Schneider attended the ceremony. Legislator Michael Giangregorio was also invited.
A floral arrangement was placed on Jackson’s grave by Scout Allesandro C. of Troop 96, and an American flag was presented in tribute to the veteran’s service. Anthony T., the son of Turcinovic, performed taps.
For Cook-Lorch, the event carried special significance. She also attended the original 1976 ceremony as a 9-year-old alongside her mother, Ellen Cook, one of the Jerusalem Chapter’s founding members and a former regent and vice regent.
Founded in 1968, the Jerusalem Chapter DAR was named for Wantagh’s original name and has spent decades preserving local history. Organizers said the ceremony served as a reminder that the story of the American Revolution remains alive in communities like Wantagh, where local patriots such as Jackson continue to be remembered generations later.
