The Historical Society of Newburgh Bay and the Highlands, Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site and local Civil War reenactment groups are partnering to bring history to life on Saturday, June 14, 2025, commemorating the return of the 124th New York State Volunteers—the famed “Orange Blossoms”—from the Civil War.

The day begins at 12 pm with a river cruise hosted by the Historical Society aboard the Pride of the Hudson, retracing the regiment’s final journey home. Guests will sail into Newburgh Bay alongside reenactors portraying the Orange Blossoms, hear their stories, and enjoy a light lunch while learning about the hardships and heroism of these local Civil War soldiers.

Following the cruise, Washington’s Headquarters will host a free reenactment of the 1865 mustering out ceremony at 2 pm. Company H of the 124th Regiment—fifty local reenactors—will perform the original speeches and ceremonies that took place as the soldiers returned to the very spot where George Washington once dismissed the Continental Army.

In June 1865, the famed “Orange Blossoms,” the 124th Infantry Regiment of local Civil War recruits, landed at Newburgh’s pier after a three-year ordeal fighting to save The Union and abolish slavery, facing adversity at many pivotal battles, including Chancellorsville and Gettysburg. Join us on June 14 to learn more about these local heroes.

Cruise Tickets (meet at 12 pm at the Pride of the Hudson dock at 4 Washington Street, Newburgh, NY; cruise will be 12:30-1:30):

• Standard: $50 (includes cruise, historical lecture, and light lunch)

• Donor: $75 (includes recognition at the event as a supporter of local history)

• Ticket deadline: June 13 at 6 PM

Reserve your cruise tickets today!

All sales are final. All proceeds support the Newburgh Historical Society. Hope to see you there!