Ever wanted to ask George Washington what was really going through his mind during the Battle of Long Island? Or how he felt about British tea? Now’s your chance—sort of.
In a historical-meets-high-tech twist, Raynham Hall Museum in Oyster Bay is giving Long Islanders the chance to chat with the nation’s first president, courtesy of artificial intelligence.
Here’s what’s happening:
- Date: Thursday, April 24
- Time: 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Location: Raynham Hall Museum, 30 W Main St, Oyster Bay, NY 11771
- Admission: Free, but registration is required at raynhamhallmuseum.org
This interactive AI-powered experience, dubbed “Meet George,” lets visitors hold a face-to-face virtual conversation with General George Washington himself. The event marks the 235th anniversary of Washington’s 1790 tour of Long Island, when he visited Oyster Bay after the Revolutionary War.
“This exciting new technology is just the latest innovation offered to visitors at Raynham Hall,” said Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “Visitors will experience how artificial intelligence can be a powerful tool for learning.”
Why Raynham Hall?
This isn’t just any old historic house. Raynham Hall was once the home of Robert Townsend, a key member of George Washington’s Culper Spy Ring and a major player in the shadowy espionage network that helped win American independence. The house was also occupied by British Lt. Col. John Graves Simcoe during the war, so it’s seen its fair share of secrets and scandals.
Today, the museum showcases two distinct periods:
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The Revolutionary War era, featuring the original colonial history and spy intrigue
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The Victorian transformation of the house from the 1850s, offering a glimpse into 19th-century life
Want to (virtually) meet the Father of Our Country? Head to Raynham Hall on April 24, ask him a question, and watch history answer back. No actual handshakes—unless you count a very enthusiastic wave from a digital George. And maybe skip the cherry tree story—he might still be touchy about that.
Learn more and register at www.raynhamhallmuseum.org or call 516-922-6808 for details.
Photo: Raynham Hall Museum website.
