The Seat of Action

Xiomaro returns to the Long Island Museum (a Smithsonian Affiliate) with photographs drawn from his collection of the William Floyd Estate, which was commissioned by the National Park Service. Floyd was a Founding Father and signer of the Declaration of Independence. He was a General under George Washington and served in the first Continental Congress. The photographs present interior views and perspectives that visitors to the sprawling 25 room house are not likely to see.

The Seat of Action: Long Island in the American Revolution and Beyond, is timed to mark the America250 Semiquincentennial. The exhibition spotlights the experiences of the Long Island region when it was under martial law and British control, which was longer than in any other part of the colonies during the Revolutionary War. The occupation, between 1776 to 1783, led to the loss and destruction of property, the separation of families, and an unprecedented level of suffering across this area. Floyd’s family escaped to Connecticut and his home was taken over.

The post–Revolutionary War era was one of profound reconstruction. Floyd returned to a ransacked house, which he restored to receive visitors such as Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and other notable guests. At the same time, the tragic impacts of the War also brought about powerful and transformative legacies leading to more democratic politics across this region and to the eventual end of slavery, both on Long Island and in New York State.

The exhibition will feature nearly 80 artifacts and images that help to tell the story of this significant era of American history.

All photographs are available for exhibition and purchase. Contact Xiomaro