​Local Filmmaker Presents Docuseries on 1949 Peekskill Riots

from the Putnam Valley Library

The Putnam Valley Library is proud to present the third episode of a powerful 5-part docuseries by local filmmaker Jon Scott Bennett, examining one of the most significant, yet often overlooked, events in American history — the Peekskill Riots of 1949.

Episode Three: A Riot Erupts

On August 27th, 1949, a benefit concert for the Civil Rights Congress featuring Paul Robeson was violently attacked in Peekskill, NY. What began as a day of music and solidarity for the Jewish and Black working-class communities in the Hudson Valley quickly turned into a scene of chaos and violence. Stirred by local resentment towards Robeson and the concert’s intended audience, a group of protestors—organized by the Peekskill Evening Star and local veteran's groups—marched with the intent to shut down the event. The peaceful gathering erupted into a brutal riot, leaving innocent concertgoers, including men, women, and children, under siege.

This episode dives deep into the harrowing events of that day, uncovering how years of simmering animosity in Peekskill finally exploded into a national scandal. The documentary sheds light on the underlying tensions and societal factors that transformed a small riverside city into the epicenter of a violent and racially charged conflict.

Screening Details

Join us at Putnam Valley Library on October 19th at 7:30 PM for an exclusive screening of this episode, followed by a conversation with the creator, Jon Scott Bennett. This event offers a rare opportunity to engage directly with the filmmaker and gain insights into the research and creative process behind the series.

Register Today: Secure your spot at bit.ly/PVLRIOTS1019.

About Jon Scott Bennett

Jon Scott Bennett is a local filmmaker dedicated to uncovering the stories that shape our history. His previous documentaries, The Leather Man and The Pound Ridge Massacre, have gained attention for their deep historical insights. For more about Jon and his work, visit his website at JonScottBennett.com.