Grade VI Visits Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan
By Mr. Landesman
Boys from grade VI walked in the footsteps of George Washington on Monday, November 16, following his retreat from Brooklyn, then his triumphant march down Broadway on Evacuation Day. They even ate chicken fingers and cheeseburger sliders where George Washington once ate. Though the historical record is silent on Washington’s thoughts on chicken fingers, the boys of grade VI learned a great deal of American history and managed to walk three miles in the process.
The trip started with a brisk walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, where the boys learned about how the Roebling family overcame crippling illness and the bends while using caissons and suspension wires to build the great bridge.
After working up their appetites, the boys ate at Fraunces Tavern, where George Washington said farewell to his troops. The boys learned the meaning of the quote, "I most devoutly wish that your latter days may be as prosperous and happy as your former ones have been glorious and honorable."
Later, the boys stepped foot on Battery Park, touched the original fence at Bowling Green, visited Alexander Hamilton’s grave at Trinity Church, put their hands in the shrapnel scars at the JP Morgan building, and ended up the tour at Federal Hall.
The boys celebrated Evacuation Day, posed for photos, learned about the Zenger Trial, and Washington’s inauguration, which all took place there.
At the end of the trip, the boys were tired, a bit sore, but happy. They liked many parts of the trip, but their favorite part was lunch.
Special thanks to Caleb N. for taking the photos.
