Wreath-laying ceremonies mark Macdonough Monument's centennial

PLATTSBURGH | The City of Plattsburgh, in partnership with 1814 Commemoration Inc., invites the community to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Thomas Macdonough Memorial Monument, one of Plattsburgh's most recognizable landmarks and an enduring symbol of the city's history. Commissioned by the State of New York, the monument honors Commodore Thomas Macdonough and the American victory during the Battle of Plattsburgh on Sept. 11, 1814. The monument was officially dedicated and unveiled in 1926 by Macdonough's great-granddaughter. Two ceremonies will be held in recognition of the monument's centennial, beginning on the anniversary of its original dedication and continuing as part of this year's Battle of Plattsburgh commemorations. Tuesday, Aug. 18 – 100th Anniversary Wreath-Laying Ceremony Time: 11 a.m. Location: Thomas Macdonough Memorial Monument, across from Plattsburgh City Hall A brief wreath-laying ceremony will mark exactly 100 years since the monument's dedication and unveiling in 1926. During the ceremony, City of Plattsburgh Mayor Wendell K. Hughes will announce the renewal of a proclamation first established in 1957, recognizing Sept. 11 as "Battle of Plattsburgh Day" in the City of Plattsburgh in 2026 and in future years. Following the approximately 20-minute ceremony, the monument will be open for public tours from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The monument is not regularly open to the public, making this a unique opportunity to step inside one of Plattsburgh's most historic landmarks. Thursday, Sept. 10 – Centennial Commemoration Ceremony Time: 11 a.m. Location: Thomas Macdonough Memorial Monument, across from Plattsburgh City Hall A larger military ceremony will commemorate the centennial of the Thomas Macdonough Memorial and recognize the service and sacrifice represented by the monument. Four wreaths will be laid in honor of Commodore Thomas Macdonough; American soldiers who fought in 1814; British soldiers who fought in 1814; and Americans who currently serve or have served in the United States military. The 10th Mountain Division (LI) Army Band from Fort Drum and the Police Pipes and Drums of Plattsburgh will perform during the ceremony. Following the approximately one-hour ceremony, the monument will again be open for public tours from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Limited seating will be available. Mayor Hughes and the volunteers of 1814 Commemoration Inc. encourage community members to take part in these historic centennial events and help honor the legacy of service, courage and sacrifice represented by the Thomas Macdonough Memorial. "A Celebratory Gathering" The centennial commemoration will continue on the evening of Thursday, Sept. 10, with "A Celebratory Gathering," hosted by 1814 Commemoration Inc. Date: Thursday, Sept. 10 Time: 5–9 p.m. Location: Valcour Inn & Boathouse, Route 9, Peru, N,Y, Cost: $35 per person; cash bar The gathering takes inspiration from a dinner held following the Battle of Plattsburgh. On September 20, 1814, Plattsburgh citizens invited Commodore Macdonough and his officers to a public dinner celebrating the American naval victory. More than two centuries later, the 2026 gathering will bring community members together overlooking Lake Champlain to celebrate the monument's centennial, reflect on the region's history, and enjoy an evening of food, beverages and entertainment. Reservations are available through the Battle of Plattsburgh website. Questions about the gathering may be directed to Event Coordinator Linda Masterson Ward at 518-570-7775.

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Wreath-laying ceremonies mark Macdonough Monument's centennial

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