On May 17, 2025, the Saint Kateri Tekakwitha National Shrine in Fonda, N.Y., a ministry of Our Lady of the Angels Province, partnered with Montgomery County History & Archives and County Tourism for a special commemoration. In May 1775, 250 years ago, a conflict took place around the raising of a Liberty Pole on what is now the shrine grounds, leading to the county’s first bloodshed of what would become the Revolutionary War. The practice of raising a red “Liberty Cap” on the end of a pole or spear as a symbol of a freedom began in ancient Rome.

Liberty Poles were used in symbols during the Renaissance when there was dissent over who was ruling a nation and were erected during Colonial times to express opposition to British rule. The shrine’s event marked the importance of its grounds during the founding of New York and the United States.

The day-long event also featured educational demonstrations of traditional crafts and a number of booths from other local history organizations. Approximately 125 people attended, in addition to the various reenactors, volunteers, and staff. The shrine was excited to hold the inaugural event for the commemoration of the American Revolution in the Mohawk River Valley.

Kateri was declared Venerable by Pope Pius XII on January 3, 1943; beatified by Pope Saint John Paul II on June 22, 1980; and canonized by Pope Benedict XVI on October 21, 2012. This National Shrine was established to honor Saint Kateri and to continue her legacy of devotion, healing, and intercultural encounter between Native and European Americans.

Submitted by:
Melissa Miscevic Bramble
Director of Operations
Saint Kateri Tekakwitha National Shrine and Historic Site

Photo credit:
Mark Perfitti