A Night to Remember: The 2026 250Ride.org Gala

Guests gathered outside Thousand Acre Farm, eagerly awaiting the arrival of Caesar Rodney after his historic journey across Delaware.

Following a remarkable first day retracing Caesar Rodney’s historic ride across Delaware, supporters gathered at Thousand Acre Farm to celebrate history, community, and the road that still lay ahead.

The evening of June 12, 2026, marked far more than the conclusion of the first day of the 250Ride.org reenactment. Set against the beautiful waterfront backdrop of Thousand Acre Farm in Middletown, the gala celebrated Delaware’s history, the partnerships that made an ambitious vision possible, and the community that came together to honor one of America’s most significant journeys toward independence.

Ruth Mertens Thompson and her husband, Caleb Thompson, provided elegant live harp and violin music during the gala's cocktail hour, welcoming guests before Caesar Rodney's historic arrival.

As supporters, sponsors, volunteers, community leaders, historians, and friends of the Delaware Italian American Foundation arrived shortly before 6:00 p.m., Ruth Mertens Thompson and her husband, Caleb Thompson, welcomed guests with the elegant sounds of harp and violin during cocktail hour. Guests browsed the silent auction, enjoyed hors d’oeuvres prepared by Randazzo’s Trattoria, admired patriotic décor, and reflected on the remarkable first day of the reenactment.

The evening’s atmosphere was further enhanced by Tom Burton, better known as DJ Big Country, whose music provided the perfect backdrop for the celebration. His thoughtful mix of patriotic favorites and timeless classics complemented the evening from beginning to end, helping create a warm and festive atmosphere for guests.

A brief stop in the shade to water the horses highlighted the care and respect shown to these remarkable animals throughout the reenactment by Caesar Rodney and the entire 250Ride.org team.

Although the summer heat made for a demanding journey, the horses’ health and comfort remained the highest priority throughout the day. Carefully planned stops provided fresh water, shade, rest, and attentive care, allowing both the horses and their devoted horsemen to safely complete the first leg of the historic ride.

Earlier thunderstorms had given way to clearing skies, and as anticipation grew for Caesar Rodney’s arrival, the stage was set for an unforgettable evening.

An Evening 250 Years in the Making

At approximately 6:30 p.m., Caesar Rodney arrived at the 250Ride.org Gala, stepping down from the carriage to a warm welcome from guests gathered to greet him after a remarkable first day on the road.

Most galas celebrate the conclusion of an event. The 250Ride.org Gala became part of the event itself.

Held midway through the two-day reenactment, the evening became a living chapter of Caesar Rodney’s historic journey. Rather than arriving by limousine or stepping onto a stage, Caesar Rodney entered the celebration exactly as history intended, by horse and carriage after spending the day retracing one of America’s most consequential rides.

Guests were not simply attending a dinner inspired by history, they were witnessing history in motion. As the carriage rolled into Thousand Acre Farm, the reenactment paused just long enough for supporters, volunteers, sponsors, community leaders, and guests to celebrate the journey before it continued north toward Philadelphia at first light the following morning.

For a few unforgettable hours, the road to independence led not only through Delaware’s countryside, but into a room filled with people committed to preserving its story.

It was more than a gala.

It was history taking a well earned pause before continuing the road to American independence.

After beginning the day at Christ Church in Dover, Caesar Rodney arrived by horse and carriage at the 250Ride.org Gala, making a memorable entrance down the driveway of Thousand Acre Farm following a remarkable day retracing history across Delaware.

Then, at precisely 6:30 p.m., conversations naturally shifted toward the entrance.

As word spread that Caesar Rodney’s carriage was approaching, guests gathered outside to welcome him after completing the first day’s journey. Cameras clicked, applause filled the air, and smiles spread across the crowd as the carriage rolled into Thousand Acre Farm. For many, it became the defining moment of the evening.

In that instant, history no longer felt distant. It had traveled Delaware’s roads, arrived by horse and carriage, and was now being welcomed nearly 250 years after the original ride.

After stepping down from the carriage, Caesar Rodney personally greeted guests gathered outside Thousand Acre Farm, taking time to shake hands and exchange a few words before the evening's festivities began. Arriving precisely on schedule after a full day retracing history across Delaware, his warm welcome was met with equal enthusiasm by those who had eagerly awaited his arrival.

Following his arrival, Caesar Rodney greeted guests, posed for photographs, and remained the centerpiece of the evening while continuing to represent the patriot whose determination helped change the course of American history.

“The road to independence was never traveled by one man alone. It was built upon the courage, sacrifice, and conviction of countless individuals. Tonight, I am honored to see that same spirit alive once again.”— Caesar Rodney, portrayed by Ciro Poppiti III

Guests then gathered for an exceptional dinner prepared by Randazzo's Trattoria, whose authentic Italian cuisine and warm hospitality perfectly complemented the evening's celebration. A family-owned Delaware favorite known for its commitment to traditional recipes, generous hospitality, and bringing people together around the table, Randazzo's delivered a meal worthy of the occasion, creating an atmosphere where guests could relax, reflect, and celebrate Delaware's remarkable role in America's founding while sharing in one another's company.

Guests raised their glasses in celebration during one of several heartfelt toasts that honored Delaware's history, the remarkable reenactment, and everyone who helped bring the journey to life.

Guests also enjoyed the exceptional wines of Capo Isetta, the family-owned Sonoma Valley winery founded by Bill and Marilyn Isetta. Built on generations of winemaking tradition, Capo Isetta’s award-winning wines beautifully complemented the evening while reflecting the craftsmanship and heritage celebrated throughout the gala. Bill Isetta and his entire family have become cherished friends of the 250Ride.org mission and the Poppiti family, making their participation feel less like that of a featured winery and more like family helping family celebrate an unforgettable milestone.

Guests also raised a glass with a special sparkling wine from Treviso, Italy—the ancestral home of the Poppiti family, adding another meaningful connection to the family’s heritage and the spirit of the evening.

A can of Liberty Lager, specially brewed by First State Brewing Company for the 250Ride.org reenactment, awaited guests throughout the evening. Captured just as Caesar Rodney's carriage rumbled into Thousand Acre Farm, the locally crafted beer became another memorable part of the gala experience.

The evening also featured Liberty Lager, brewed exclusively by First State Brewing Company as the official commemorative beer of the 250Ride.orgcampaign. Created specifically for the reenactment, Liberty Lager gave guests another opportunity to toast Caesar Rodney’s journey while supporting 250Ride.org’s mission to preserve and share Delaware’s remarkable story.

Before dinner, guests gathered in the Cider Barn adjacent to the main barn at Thousand Acre Farm to sample a selection of apple spirits from Laird & Company, America's oldest licensed distillery, adding another authentic touch to the evening's celebration.

Guests also enjoyed an authentic taste of Revolutionary history with the presence of special guest Lisa Laird Dunn, President and CEO of Laird & Company, America’s oldest licensed distillery. Lisa graciously joined the celebration as attendees sampled Laird’s Straight Applejack 86 and Laird’s 7½ Year Old Apple Brandy, expertly served by Prime Beverage. Together, they brought another meaningful connection to America’s colonial heritage and added a memorable touch to an evening dedicated to honoring our nation’s founding.

The gala welcomed an extraordinary gathering of elected officials, military leaders, historians, preservationists, community partners, and distinguished guests.

U.S. Senator Chris Coons joined Caesar Rodney, portrayed by Ciro Poppiti, for a photograph during the 250Ride.org Gala at Thousand Acre Farm, celebrating Delaware's enduring role in the nation's founding.

Among those in attendance were U.S. Senator Chris Coons; Major General James A. Benson, Adjutant General of the Delaware National Guard; Major General (Ret.) Francis D. Vavala, former Adjutant General of the Delaware National Guard; New Castle County Councilman Tim Sheldon; and retired Delaware Superior Court Judge Richard “Dick” Cooch, a descendant of the colonial Rodney family whose remarks offered guests a uniquely personal connection to Delaware's Revolutionary heritage.

The evening also welcomed members of the media who helped document and preserve this historic milestone. Delaware Live News, the official media partner of 250Ride.org, was on hand after providing comprehensive coverage throughout the entire two-day reenactment, joined by George D. Rotsch, Interim Publisher and Vice President of Client Communications. Representatives from Delaware Online and The News Journal were also in attendance, along with Christopher Tremoglie of the Washington Examiner.

Miss Delaware USA 2025 Tetra Shaylice Shockley and Miss Delaware Teen USA 2025 Cali Williams pose with Caesar Rodney, portrayed by Ciro Poppiti, and members of the Unheard Voices of the Revolution during the 250Ride.org Gala at Thousand Acre Farm.

Among the evening's honored guests were Miss Delaware USA 2025 Tetra Shaylice Shockley and Miss Delaware Teen USA 2025 Cali Williams, whose presence reflected the spirit of service and community that defined the celebration. It was a privilege to welcome both titleholders to the 250Ride.org Gala, where they joined guests in honoring Delaware's remarkable role in the nation's founding. Their participation added another meaningful connection between Delaware's proud traditions and the next generation of ambassadors representing the First State.

Throughout the evening, thoughtful remarks, laughter, applause, and enthusiastic cries of “Huzzah!” reminded everyone that this was more than a formal dinner, it was a celebration of Delaware’s enduring legacy.

The gala was also honored by the presence of numerous historians, preservationists, museum professionals, authors, community leaders, business executives, sponsors, and distinguished guests from across Delaware and beyond. While only a handful are highlighted here, every guest played a meaningful role in making the evening so memorable. We extend our sincere appreciation to all who joined us in celebrating this historic occasion. The memories of the evening were beautifully preserved by Delaware photographer Ashlee Emerson of Ashlee Emerson Photography, whose artistic eye and attention to detail captured the celebration with remarkable authenticity. Known for her ability to document life's most meaningful moments through timeless imagery, Ashlee's photographs now serve as a lasting visual record of an evening that celebrated Delaware's history, heritage, and enduring spirit.

Community partnerships also played an important role in the gala’s success. Carman Auto Group, led by Larry Giacchino, expanded awareness of the 250Ride.org campaign through media partnerships with iHeartMedia’s 94.7 WDSD and Draper Media’s WDEL, while display vehicles outside the venue reflected the broad community support behind the reenactment.

While guests celebrated inside, the horses rested peacefully just steps away on the grounds of Thousand Acre Farm. Their close proximity allowed visitors to quietly admire the remarkable animals while their caretakers remained nearby, ensuring they received exceptional care throughout the evening.

The True VIPs

While the celebration continued inside, some of the true stars of the reenactment rested only feet away on the grounds of Thousand Acre Farm.

One of the venue’s most remarkable features was its ability to accommodate both the gala and the reenactment. Rather than being transported elsewhere, the horses simply stepped off the road into a safe and comfortable environment on the farm, remaining only feet from the celebration and never far from their devoted caretakers.

Their overnight stay at Thousand Acre Farm reflected the same commitment to their health and well-being that guided every mile of the two-day journey. Rested and ready, they would depart again at sunrise to continue toward Philadelphia.

It was a fitting reminder that while Caesar Rodney may have been the face of the journey, these magnificent horses were indispensable partners in bringing history to life.

Guests capped off the evening by enjoying handcrafted ice cream from The Frozen Farmer, a sweet ending to an unforgettable day celebrating Delaware's history and hospitality.

As the evening drew to a close, guests gathered one final time to enjoy handcrafted ice cream from The Frozen Farmer, the Delaware favorite that gained national recognition through Shark Tank. It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable celebration.

By morning, the needed rest would be over.

The wheels would turn once again, and the road that had briefly stopped at Thousand Acre Farm would carry Caesar Rodney north toward Philadelphia, where the reenactment would reach its inspiring conclusion.

Members of the 250Ride.org team gathered with Caesar Rodney, portrayed by Ciro Poppiti, following his heartfelt remarks thanking the dedicated volunteers, partners, sponsors, and organizers who made the historic reenactment possible.

The 250Ride.org Gala was far more than an evening reception. It celebrated the volunteers, horsemen, reenactors, sponsors, partners, supporters, elected officials, military leaders, historians, and guests whose collective efforts transformed an ambitious vision into a remarkable reality.

As guests departed, they carried home more than memories of an exceptional evening. They left having experienced history not as spectators, but as participants in preserving one of Delaware’s greatest stories for future generations.

Editor’s Note

This article commemorates the 250Ride.org Gala held on June 12, 2026, at Thousand Acre Farm in Middletown, Delaware, during the first day of the historic Caesar Rodney reenactment. Produced by the Delaware Italian American Foundation, the 250Ride.org initiative honors Caesar Rodney’s legendary ride for independence while inspiring a deeper appreciation for Delaware’s indispensable role in the founding of the United States.

Preserving Delaware’s Story. Inspiring America’s Future.