Friends of Miller House/Washington’s Headquarters Announces New Leadership

Friends of Miller House/Washington’s Headquarters Announces New Leadership

White Plains, NY: Today, Friends of Miller House/Washington’s Headquarters announced that new leadership has been elected for the term commencing on January 1, 2021.

Former New Castle Town Board member and long-time advocate for Miller House, John S. Diaconis has been elected President. Adam Rodriguez has been elected Vice President. Mr. Diaconis and Mr. Rodriguez are partners in the law firm of Bleakley, Platt & Schmidt LLP. One of Westchester’s oldest firms, Bleakley Platt has a history of civic engagement in Westchester County. The founding member was William Bleakley, Westchester’s first County Executive.

Edward L. Woodyard was elected Vice President as well. Mr. Woodyard has been involved with the Friends since its inception, and he is active in community affairs. Mr. Woodyard is a former President of the organization. Leo Vircillo will be the new Treasurer.

Linda Fernburg has stepped down as President, but will remain on the board of directors. The Friends are appreciative of Linda’s past service and pleased she’ll stay on as board member.

Mr. Diaconis said: “We are grateful for County Executive Latimer’s leadership in preserving this historic landmark. The Elijah Miller House is an 18th century farm house used by General George Washington during the Revolutionary War as a headquarters command post. The house was home to Ann and Elijah Miller and their 7 children. Elijah Miller and two sons John and Elijah, Jr. all died as members of Westchester’s militia in 1776. A woman of great courage, Ann Miller then turned the house into a hospital for Continental soldiers. During the Battle of White Plains, soldiers took shelter under the shade of a 300 year old sycamore that’s preserved on the property.”

Mr. Rodriguez added: “George Washington’s leadership during and after the American Revolution set this great nation on a path that has endured for over two hundred years.  The Friends are committed to sustaining Washington’s legacy.  We’ll assist the County in programming and plan to educate citizens both young and old not only about Washington’s unprecedented achievements, but also his position and struggle with other controversial issues.”

Mr. Diaconis and Mr. Rodriguez both thanked Daughters of Liberty’s Legacy for their hard work in preserving the house.

The Friends are looking to fill board of director vacancies and for members. Those interested may contact Mr. Diaconis directly at jdiaconis@bpslaw.com.