First Oval Office Project at Dey Mansion Washington’s Headquarters
The First Oval Office Project, curated by the Museum of the American Revolution, portrays Washington’s war tent as both a command center and a symbol of leadership. Now, this powerful experience is coming to Dey Mansion Washington’s Headquarters.
Visitors Will Experience:
- Interactive displays curated by costumed interpreters from the Museum of the American Revolution
- A walk-through encounter with Washington’s tent, set up as it would have appeared in 1780
- The chance to connect this national story with the local history of Dey Mansion
What is the First Oval Office Project?
The First Oval Office Project is a traveling, immersive program from the Museum of the American Revolution that brings George Washington’s wartime headquarters to life. At the heart of the program is a full-scale replica of Washington’s Revolutionary War tent — the very space where he made critical decisions, wrote correspondence, and led the Continental Army. Often referred to as the “First Oval Office,” this tent was both a command center and a symbol of leadership. Now this powerful experience is coming to Dey Mansion Washington’s Headquarters, where visitors will experience a walk-through encounter of the tent featuring interactive displays curated by costumed interpreters from the Museum of the American Revolution.
What’s Going On at Dey Mansion Washington’s Headquarters?
- Set up Washington’s tent: Help set up the First Oval Office on Friday, with staff from the Museum of the American Revolution explaining its story along the way. On Sunday afternoon, help take the tent down, as Washington’s staff would have done at the end of his two stays at Dey Mansion.
- Experience Revolutionary-era military demonstrations: See reenactors perform drill demonstrations, the mid-day “nooning of the troops,” and experience dramatic Revolutinary-era cannon fire!
What Other Activities Are Going On?
- The Battle for Great Notch War Game: Experience the excitement of the fictional Battle of Great Notch in an immersive tactical wargame event.
- Dinner with Washington and His Troops: Celebrate the tent raising on Friday or Saturday evening with a catered dinner,. Choose from dinner with the Continental Army troops, or an exclusive dinner inside Dey Mansion with George Washington himself!
- Lectures on Revolutionary War History: Come on Thursday for a lecture on Benjamin Franklin and his relationship with his loyalist son William, presented in costume by Dey Mansion museum attendant Paul Maloney. On Wednesday, Local historian Tom Dempsey shares the history of daily events at the headquarters in July 1780.
- Get even more involved and win some swag by signing on to the First Oval Office Project at Dey Mansion Lets Rallie App! Sign in to the events you go to for a chance to win special prizes during this momentous week! By connecting with us on Lets Rallie, you’ll also get first notice of future experiences happening at Dey Mansion and Passaic County.
Admission & Location
- Outdoor activities and parking are FREE for all visitors.
- Dey Mansion admission: $5 per person (free for children 17 and under).
For more details, call 973-706-6640.
Schedule of Events
Special Exhibit Opens – Revolutionary Objects
See our brand-new exhibit, featuring historic objects from the Revolutionary War period.
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Washington at Dey Mansion in 1780: A Lecture by Tom Dempsey
Local historian Tom Dempsey returns to Dey Mansion to share the history of daily events at the headquarters in July 1780. In his presentation, Tom will discuss how events were shaped by the anticipated arrival of the French forces. The General Orders and correspondence from that time reflect a growing resolve by Washington to launch an attack on New York, despite troubling reports of British naval superiority. As the month progressed, Washington learned that the British had their own menacing plans, ultimately forcing the Continental Army to leave Preakness.
Event is free but registration is required. Please call 973-706-6640 or email deymansion@passaiccounty.org to secure your spot!
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
The Battle of Great Notch Wargame
Step into the shoes of George Washington and experience the excitement of the fictional Battle of Great Notch in an immersive tabletop wargame event. Command your troops and test your tactical skills as you learn about the predicament of the Continental Army in October of 1780 while encamped at Dey Mansion.
What is a tabletop war game? A tabletop war game is a strategy game played on a physical surface, usually a table, that simulates military battles or conflicts set in historical, fantasy, or science fiction worlds. Players use miniature figures, vehicles, and detailed terrain pieces—often hand-painted—to represent armies and landscapes, measuring movement and attack ranges to recreate, simulate, or invent battles. Blending elements of chess, model building, and storytelling, these games invite players to combine tactics and creativity on a miniature battlefield.
Event is free but registration is required. Please call 973-706-6640 or email deymansion@passaiccounty.org to secure your spot!
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
A Family Divided: Benjamin Franklin on His Complicated Relationship with William Franklin: A Lecture in Costume by Paul Maloney
Join us for a thought-provoking lecture exploring the complex relationship between Benjamin Franklin and his son, William Franklin. Discover the personal and political tensions that defined their bond during the American Revolution, and how their differing loyalties shaped their lives. The lecture is provided by museum staff member Paul Maloney, who will be portraying the famous Benjamin Franklin.
Event is free but registration is required. Please call 973-706-6640 or email deymansion@passaiccounty.org to secure your spot!
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
The Battle of Great Notch Wargame
Step into the shoes of George Washington and experience the excitement of the fictional Battle of Great Notch in an immersive tabletop wargame event. Command your troops and test your tactical skills as you learn about the predicament of the Continental Army in October of 1780 while encamped at Dey Mansion.
What is a tabletop war game? A tabletop war game is a strategy game played on a physical surface, usually a table, that simulates military battles or conflicts set in historical, fantasy, or science fiction worlds. Players use miniature figures, vehicles, and detailed terrain pieces—often hand-painted—to represent armies and landscapes, measuring movement and attack ranges to recreate, simulate, or invent battles. Blending elements of chess, model building, and storytelling, these games invite players to combine tactics and creativity on a miniature battlefield.
Event is free but registration is required. Please call 973-706-6640 or email deymansion@passaiccounty.org to secure your spot!
6:00 PM
Meet and Greet with the Marquis de Chastellux
Before the evening’s lecture, join us for a special meet and greet celebrating the Marquis de Chastellux, the French general who played a vital role in the Revolutionary War as liaison between General Rochambeau and General George Washington.
This informal gathering offers guests the unique opportunity to explore the historic context of Chastellux’s 1780 visit to Dey Mansion, enjoy light refreshments provided by High Societea Tea in Wayne, and connect with fellow history enthusiasts.
Following the meet and greet, Dr. Iris de Rode will deliver a lecture drawing from Chastellux’s rediscovered private papers, shedding new light on his friendship with Washington and the Franco-American alliance that helped secure American independence.
6:30 PM
Lecture on the Chastellux-Washington Relationship with Dr. Iris de Rode
Dey Mansion is proud to welcome Dr. Iris de Rode for a special lecture on the historic 1780 meeting between General George Washington and the Marquis de Chastellux, which took place right here at Dey Mansion.
As a major general in Rochambeau’s expeditionary force, Chastellux played a pivotal role in logistics and strategic planning, and—most importantly—served as the key liaison between General Rochambeau and General Washington. Throughout the campaign, Washington and Chastellux developed a deep friendship that strengthened the Franco-American alliance and helped shape the course of the Revolutionary War.
Drawing from Chastellux’s long-forgotten private papers—rediscovered by Dr. de Rode in the Chastellux family château in Burgundy—this lecture will vividly bring their transformative encounter to life and offer fresh insights into the human bonds at the heart of this historic alliance.
Light refreshments will be provided by High Societea Tea in Wayne. This program is free and open to the public.
Please call 973-706-6640 or email deymansion@passaiccounty.org to secure your spot!
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
First Oval Office Project Set-Up
Join us and the Museum of the American Revolution in setting up the First Oval Office Project! This unique, hands-on experience offers participants the chance to explore a full-scale replica of General George Washington’s field headquarters—his iconic War Tent. Learn about the daily lives and duties of Washington’s military “family,” the team of aides, servants, and soldiers who supported the Commander-in-Chief during the Revolutionary War. Discover how this mobile command center shaped the course of history, and gain a deeper appreciation for the people and stories behind the American fight for independence.
Museum Entry is $5.00 per person.
12:00 PM
Meet and Greet with Washington and the Marquis de Chastellux
Join us for a special meet and greet celebrating General George Washington and Major General François-Jean de Chastellux, the French officer who played a vital role in the Revolutionary War as liaison between General Rochambeau and General Washington himself.
This informal gathering offers guests the unique opportunity to explore the historic context of their 1780 meeting at Dey Mansion
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
18th Century Fashion Lecture by Hannah Rodums
Curious about what people in Preakness, NJ wore during the American Revolution? Join us on for an engaging lecture by museum attendant Hannah Rodums, exploring the fashion of the 1770s — from elegant haute couture to everyday attire.
Seating is limited! To reserve your spot, please call 973-706-6640 or email deymansion@passaiccountynj.org.
6:00 PM
Chastellux Arriving Ceremony
General Washington welcomes the Marquis de Chastellux to Dey Mansion!
Bring the whole family to step back in time and re-enact the exciting moment in 1780 when this historic house officially became “Washington’s Headquarters.”
6:30 PM (First Seating) | 8:30 PM (Second Seating)
Dinner with George Washington & His Staff Inside Dey Mansion
Immerse yourself in a once-in-a-lifetime dinner with General George Washington and his staff. Join us on this exclusive evening with savory dishes and an educational conversation with the Father of the Nation himself, his top generals and aides.
Seating is extremely limited and a reservation is required! Call 973-706-6640 or email deymansion@passaiccountynj.org to place your reservation. The cost of the program is $65.00 per person.
Payment is only accepted in Cash or Check made out to the Friends of Dey Mansion.
10:00 AM
Encampment Opens to the Public
10:30 AM
Spinning Presentation by Celeste Sherry (Dining Tent)
Living historian Celeste Sherry demonstrates 18th-century spinning techniques, showing how wool and flax were processed using a spinning wheel and drop spindles, with interactive, hands-on activities for visitors.
11:00 AM
Formation of troops for Inspection (Front Lawn)
Troops form up for inspection, standing in ranks as officers review their appearance, equipment, and readiness—demonstrating historic military discipline and routine.
11:30 AM
Military Drill Demonstration (Front Lawn)
The military drill demonstration showcases soldiers practicing maneuvers and commands, giving visitors insight into training and battlefield tactics of the past.
12:00 PM
Cannon Demonstration (Front Lawn)
Visitors can witness an exciting cannon demonstration, showcasing historic artillery in action as part of the living history program.
12:00 PM
Nooning of the Troops (Front Lawn)
The “nooning” of the troops is a midday rest period where reenactors pause for a meal and relaxation, offering visitors a glimpse into soldiers’ daily routines and downtime.
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
The Battle of Great Notch Wargame
Step into the shoes of George Washington and experience the excitement of the fictional Battle of Great Notch in an immersive tabletop wargame event. Command your troops and test your tactical skills as you learn about the predicament of the Continental Army in October of 1780 while encamped at Dey Mansion.
What is a tabletop war game? A tabletop war game is a strategy game played on a physical surface, usually a table, that simulates military battles or conflicts set in historical, fantasy, or science fiction worlds. Players use miniature figures, vehicles, and detailed terrain pieces—often hand-painted—to represent armies and landscapes, measuring movement and attack ranges to recreate, simulate, or invent battles. Blending elements of chess, model building, and storytelling, these games invite players to combine tactics and creativity on a miniature battlefield.
Event is free but registration is required. Please call 973-706-6640 or email deymansion@passaiccounty.org to secure your spot!
1:00 PM – 2:15 PM
Music and Muse: A Celebration of Phyllis Wheatley Peters (Dining Tent)
Dey Mansion is proud to present an afternoon of music, poetry, and discussion exploring the life and writings of Phillis Wheatley Peters, the first enslaved poet to be published in the American Colonies.
The event will feature performances by National Book Award–winning poet Cornelius Eady and composer and author Charlie Rauh. Through their projects, Mercy Poetry Cycle and A Hymn to the Morning, they offer two unique perspectives that celebrate Wheatley Peters’ profound influence during Revolutionary America.
2:00 PM
Military Drill Demonstration (Front Lawn)
The military drill demonstration showcases soldiers practicing maneuvers and commands, giving visitors insight into training and battlefield tactics of the past.
2:30 PM
Loyalist Lecture by Todd Braisted (Summer Kitchen)
In Reduced Circumstances: Loyalist Women and British Government Assistance, 1779-1783
The American Revolution involved every man, woman and child in America, directly or otherwise. While some women followed their husband’s or family’s allegiance in the conflict, others viewed their own opinions. Those retaining an allegiance to the British faced a wide range of experiences, ranging from mob violence to abject poverty and homelessness. Many lost family members. Others accompanied their husbands on campaign while some actively supported the crown in the secret service. We will examine the circumstances and tribulations of many of these Loyalist women and what became of them once the war ended.
3:00 PM
18th Century Spinning Presentation by Celeste Sherry
Living historian Celeste Sherry demonstrates 18th-century spinning techniques, showing how wool and flax were processed using a spinning wheel and drop spindles, with interactive, hands-on activities for visitors.
4:00 PM
Cannon Demonstration (Front Lawn)
Visitors can witness an exciting cannon demonstration, showcasing historic artillery in action as part of the living history program.
5:00 PM
Site Closes for the Day
6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Colonial Tavern Night
Step back in time and sip on something special! Join us and the Continental Army at Dey Mansion for an evening of food, drink, and games. Stroll the historic grounds, enjoy live music, and sample craft beers from local breweries. Watch historical reenactments come to life and share a meal alongside the troops, experiencing 18th-century camp life up close.
Reservation required, fee $35.00. Call 973-706-6640 or email deymansion@passaiccountynj.org to reserve your spot.
10:00 AM
Encampment Opens to the Public
10:30 AM
18th Century Spinning Presentation by Celeste Sherry
Living historian Celeste Sherry demonstrates 18th-century spinning techniques, showing how wool and flax were processed using a spinning wheel and drop spindles, with interactive, hands-on activities for visitors.
11:00 AM
Formation of Troops for Inspection (Front Lawn)
Troops form up for inspection, standing in ranks as officers review their appearance, equipment, and readiness—demonstrating historic military discipline and routine.
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
The Battle of Great Notch Wargame
Step into the shoes of George Washington and experience the excitement of the fictional Battle of Great Notch in an immersive tabletop wargame event. Command your troops and test your tactical skills as you learn about the predicament of the Continental Army in October of 1780 while encamped at Dey Mansion.
What is a tabletop war game? A tabletop war game is a strategy game played on a physical surface, usually a table, that simulates military battles or conflicts set in historical, fantasy, or science fiction worlds. Players use miniature figures, vehicles, and detailed terrain pieces—often hand-painted—to represent armies and landscapes, measuring movement and attack ranges to recreate, simulate, or invent battles. Blending elements of chess, model building, and storytelling, these games invite players to combine tactics and creativity on a miniature battlefield.
Event is free but registration is required. Please call 973-706-6640 or email deymansion@passaiccounty.org to secure your spot!
11:30 AM
Military Drill Demonstration (Front Lawn)
The military drill demonstration showcases soldiers practicing maneuvers and commands, giving visitors insight into training and battlefield tactics of the past.
12:00 PM
Cannon Demonstration (Front Lawn)
Visitors can witness an exciting cannon demonstration, showcasing historic artillery in action as part of the living history program.
12:00 PM
Nooning of the Troops (Front Lawn)
The “nooning” of the troops is a midday rest period where reenactors pause for a meal and relaxation, offering visitors a glimpse into soldiers’ daily routines and downtime.
12:30 PM – 1:15 PM
Music and Muse: A celebration of Phyllis Wheatley Peters (Dining Tent)
Dey Mansion is proud to present an afternoon of music, poetry, and discussion exploring the life and writings of Phillis Wheatley Peters, the first enslaved poet to be published in the American Colonies.
The event will feature performances by National Book Award–winning poet Cornelius Eady and composer and author Charlie Rauh. Through their projects, Mercy Poetry Cycle and A Hymn to the Morning, they offer two unique perspectives that celebrate Wheatley Peters’ profound influence during Revolutionary America.
2:00 PM
Loyalist Lecture by Todd Braisted (Summer Kitchen)
The Plan to Kidnap George Washington
The winter of 1779-1780 was referred to as “the severest in human memory.” The main British Army under Sir Henry Clinton was laying siege to Charleston, South Carolina. George Washington’s main army lay hutted at Jockey Hollow, about five miles northwest of Morristown, where Washington himself took quarters at the Ford Mansion, with but a small detachment of his Life Guard. Morristown’s distance from British-occupied New York City and the severity of the weather ensured his safety better than a large army surrounding him could. Or so he thought. Join us as we examine the British plot to spirit the Father of our Country into British captivity and perhaps bring the Revolutionary War to a shocking end.
2:30 PM
Reenactment of the News of the French (Front Lawn)
This reenactment brings to life the moment when news arrives that the French fleet has reached Newport, Rhode Island, to support the Continental Army—capturing the hope and excitement this alliance sparked among American troops and citizens.
3:00 PM
Breakdown of the First Oval Office Tent
Following the news of the French arrival, reenactors demonstrate the breakdown of the First Oval Office Tent, showing how Washington’s mobile field headquarters was carefully packed and moved as the army prepared to join their new allies.
3:30 PM
Military Inspection, Drill, and Cannon Demonstration
Visitors can watch as reenactors undergo final military inspections, practice drills, and fire a cannon, offering an authentic glimpse into the discipline, training, and artillery of soldiers from the past.