Past Events 2024 – Fulton County Historical Society

Kilboy Was Here: The Erie Canal Balladeer with David Brooks (Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site)
Wednesday, January 17th, 6pm
Click here to register

This program explores the life of a canal towing company operator along the notorious “Sixteens” of the Erie Canal. Discover the mayhem, graft, and dirty underside of the canal. Truth will ring out, proving that Kilboy was here!

David Brooks is the Education Director at Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site in Fort Hunter, N.Y. – within the system of sites operated by the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation. Schoharie Crossing interprets and preserves the significant history of the Erie Canal and its contributions to the state as well as the nation.

Entertaining Fulton County: The Kasson and Schine Legacies with Samantha Hall-Saladino
Wednesday, February 7th, 6pm
Click here to register

From the construction of Alexander J. Kasson’s Memorial Hall and it’s grand live performances to the opeing of the Schine brothers’ Glove Theater and the introduction of “talkies” and beyond, explore the stories of the men who brought opera, vaudeville, musicals, and the best films of the day to Fulton County.

Samantha Hall-Saladino is the Executive Director of the Fulton County Historical Society and has served as the Fulton County Historian since 2013.

This Old House: Constructing a House History with John Scherer (Town of Clifton Park Historian)
Wednesday, February 21st, 6pm
Click here to register

To many, Home Sweet Home is the house that they call home. Join Town of Clifton Park Historian John Scherer will explain how to put together the history of a house, examining the many sources available and how to use them. Scherer will begin by looking at architectural styles and building techniques to date the structure and the changes made throughout its lifetime, and end with sources to identify the occupants, their family dynamics, and their role in the community.

John L. Scherer has been the Historian for the Town of Clifton Park since 1978. He is Historian Emeritus at the New York State Museum and Deputy Regional Coordinator of the Association of Public Historians of NYS (APHNYS) Region 5.

Landslide: Adirondack Gentrification and the Erosion of Local Memory with Dr. Eliza J. Darling
Wednesday, February 28th, 6pm
Click here to register

The Adirondacks are gentrifying, displacing working class residents in the wake of rising rents, a depleted year-round housing stock, the domination of the AirBnB economy and the overall casualization of the built environment. When longtime Adirondack locals leave, they take more than their possessions with them: they take their experiences, their stories, their memories and their family folklore, leaving behind gaping holes in the social history of a wilderness landscape where human artifacts struggle to endure in the face of harsh climate, acidic soil, public retrenchment and bureaucratic indifference. Does it matter? What is at stake in the loss of working class histories in a region where the very nature of work itself has changed so drastically with the deindustrialization of the twentieth century? This talk considers the postwar challenge of historiography in the southern Adirondack foothills in at the intersection of housing, memory and labor.

Dr. Eliza Jane Darling is an anthropologist specializing in the social and environmental history of the Adirondacks. She currently teaches at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, CUNY.

Songs of the Labor Unions (1850-1940) with Cosby and Tom
Saturday, March 16th, 1pm
Free

Join Cosby and Tom at the FCHS for “Songs of the Labor Unions.” The labor union movement in the United States was a just short of a revolution with rioting by thousands of workers, weapons, and skirmishes. Songs were used to communicate and to inspire the unionizers, with many being written by labor leaders themselves. The resulting victory over the oppressors was important for the whole world as it brought fairer workplace practices that continue today.

This program is made possible by the Fulton County Board of Supervisors Office and the Fulton County Historian.

Vanishing Views: 20th Century Urban Renewal in Gloversville
Wednesday, April 17th, 6pm
$5 donation

Beginning in 1949, the federal government provided grants and loans to cities through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to fund urban renewal projects. This process involved the seizure and demolition of property in an effort to improve infrastructure and modernize cities. In reality, this often meant the destruction of historic structures, and disproportionately affected low-income communities and small businesses. The Empire State Plaza in Albany is perhaps one of the state’s most well-known urban renewal projects, spearheaded by Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller. But smaller cities, like Gloversville, also undertook these projects, for better or for worse.

Utilizing newspaper archives, city records, and other resources, explore the history of Gloversville’s urban renewal projects, from the proposed Midtown Park to the never-completed “ring road.” Learn how these efforts affected the community and take a tour through photos to see just what has changed downtown.

Community BBQ and Ice Cream Social Fundraiser
Friday, May 17th, 5-7pm
Tickets available here

Join us for an exciting new community celebration and fundraiser at the museum this spring! All the best parts of the Ice Cream Social, plus delicious BBQ by Sturgess Family Catering. Eat in or take-out. Stump City Brewing will be on-site selling delicious locally-brewed farm-fresh beer (eat in only). Enjoy tunes from Sheaman and Marty, then take a tour of the museum and check out this year’s special exhibit, “Road to Revolution!”

First Friday: Open Mic Night with Bill Ackerbauer
Friday, June 7th, 6-8pm
Free (donations appreciated)

Back by popular demand — kick off our 2024 First Friday series with an Open Mic Night, hosted by Bill Ackerbauer! Family-friendly performances of song, spoken word, and comedy are welcome! Performer spots will be available for sign up at the door. Please bring your own chairs and feel free to bring snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.

NEW DATE: Iron-Hearted: The 115th NY Volunteer Regiment in the Civil War with David Brooks
Wednesday, June 26th, 6pm
$5 donation

During the Civil War, Colonel Simeon Sammons received authority to recruit a regiment in the counties of Fulton, Hamilton, Montgomery and Saratoga, with headquarters at Fonda. On August 26, 1862, it mustered in the service of the United States for three years. Join local historian David Brooks in an exploration of the history of the “Iron-Hearted Regiment.”

Hands On History for Kids: Elizabeth Leads the Way! Elizabeth Cady Stanton and the Fight for Women’s Suffrage
Thursday, July 11th, 10am
Free

Join the Fulton County Historical Society on special Thursday mornings for Hands on History at the museum! Each week, we’ll focus on a different theme and use our exhibits and collections to explore these themes in local history. We’ll finish the morning with a craft activity. This program is geared toward ages 5-10.

This week, we’ll explore Fulton County’s role in the fight for women’s suffrage with a story time (“Elizabeth Leads the Way” by Tanya Lee Stone). Then you’ll have a chance to make your own suffrage sashes and posters inspired by examples from history.

This series is made possible through the support of the Fulton County Board of Supervisors and the Fulton County Historian’s Office.

First Friday: Museum After Hours
Friday, July 12th, 4-7pm
* Please note that July’s First Friday will be held on the 12th due to the 4th of July holiday.

Explore the museum after hours and enjoy some light refreshments. Catch a demo of our newest addition to the technology collection, a 1920s Edison Disc Phonograph.

Hands On History for Kids: The Artists’ Colony at Canada Lake
Thursday, July 18th, 10am
Free

Discover the community of world-famous artists, writers, and film-makers who camped along Caroga Lake, then make your very own masterpiece using a variety of mediums.

This series is made possible through the support of the Fulton County Board of Supervisors and the Fulton County Historian’s Office.

Hands On History for Kids: Rosie Revere the Engineer with miSci
Thursday, July 25th, 10am
Free

We’ll welcome miSci back to the museum in July for “Rosie Revere the Engineer.” Learn about the science of engineering through an engaging story and hands-on engineering project. Kids build their own take-home flying machine and get to test and improve its performance.

This series is made possible through the support of the Fulton County Board of Supervisors and the Fulton County Historian’s Office.

Hands On History for Kids: The Circus is Coming to Town!
Thursday, August 1st, 10am
Free

Can you imagine elephants parading down Main Street in Gloversville? That’s just what happened when the circus used to come to town! Explore what you might find at a circus in the 1900s and discover how circuses traveled all over the country and advertised their shows. Then design your own circus poster using inspiration from historic images and items from the museum’s collection!

This series is made possible through the support of the Fulton County Board of Supervisors and the Fulton County Historian’s Office.

First Friday: Explore the Glove Theatre Museum
Friday, August 2nd, 5-7pm
Free (donations appreciated)

Join us at the Glove Theatre Museum and discover Gloversville’s fascinating entertainment history! The museum was recently reorganized and reopened in the summer of 2023. Theatre volunteers will be on-hand to answer questions and discuss ongoing projects. This is a must-do for anyone interested in film, the arts, and the revitalization of the city’s historic downtown.

Military Re-enactor Encampment at the Museum
Saturday, August 3rd, 11am-4pm

From 1914-1918, the world was thrown into total war in a way that it had never before seen. The experiences of the soldiers who served – from America, Germany, France, and elsewhere – were varied and complex. Join us at the museum for this special living history event, featuring a select group of re-enactors and historians who have delved deep into researching the lives and experiences of men from both sides of the conflict.

Harnessing Nature: An Interactive Discussion About the Great Sacandaga Lake
Saturday, September 14th, 4-6pm at the Gloversville Middle School Auditorium

In 1930, the Great Sacandaga Lake, then called the Sacandaga Reservoir, was created with the construction of the Conklingville Dam. Using clips from the documentary “Harnessing Nature: Building the Great Sacandaga,” local historians will discuss more in-depth the stories of their hamlets, the way the lake affected them, and how our community has changed since the lake’s creation. A Q&A session with attendees will follow.

This event will be held in the auditorium at the Gloversville Middle School.

The Underground Railroad Revisited
With Paul and Mary Liz Stewart, Underground Railroad Education Center
Wednesday, September 25th, 6pm
Donations appreciated

The Underground Railroad, often remembered as being characterized by tunnels, dark of night escapes, coded language and hidey-holes, was far more extensive and complex than these ideas have led us to believe. In the midst of significant pro-slavery sentiment, New York State was home to many abolitionists working to abolish the institution of slavery in our state and nation and it was visited by many who had escaped enslavement and sought a life of freedom. Join with Paul and Mary Liz Stewart of Underground Railroad Education Center as they share a new interpretation of a very old story and its relationship with us today.

Adirondack Fire Towers’ 115th Anniversary: Their History & Restoration with Marty Podskoch
Wednesday, October 2nd, 6pm
Donations appreciated

Author and historian Marty Podskoch will give a Power Point presentation on “The 115^th Anniversary of Fire Towers in the Adirondacks.” It was in 1909 the first fire towers were established in the Catskills on Hunter Mt., Balsam Lake Mt., and Belleayre Mt. and in the Adirondacks on Mount Morris, Gore Mt., Snowy Mt., and West Mt. During the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries, fires raged out of control in many of New York State’s vast wooded areas. The years 1903 and 1908 were particularly disastrous! Public outcry for protection from the devastation led the state to begin a rigorous fire prevention and control program, including the building of fire towers. Explore the 115 year history of Adirondack fire towers and how their roles have changed over time with this great presentation!

4th Annual History Fair
Saturday, October 5th, 11am-3pm

Celebrate local history with us at the 5th Annual FCHS History Fair! Featuring displays from local organizations, re-enactments, and more!

Participating organizations:
Johnstown Historical Society
Caroga Historical Museum
Johnstown Daughters of the American Revolution
Town of Stratford
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Town of Ephratah Historical Wo with
Memorial Hall Cultural & Arts Center Inc.

This program is made possible through support of the Fulton County Board of Supervisors and County Historian’s Office.

Haunted History at the Museum with Brian J. Cano
Monday, October 28th, 6:30pm
$30 per person (tickets are limited; get tickets here)

The museum is one of the most haunted buildings in Fulton County. Paranormal investigators have captured evidence of footsteps, whispers, voices, laughing, and more. Not to mention the experiences of staff and volunteers, who have seen hats fly off of mannequins and the FJ&G model train start on its own. Is it the building that’s haunted, or do the museum’s artifacts hold the energy?

Join paranormal researcher Brian J. Cano for a special event at the Fulton County Historical Society and dive deeper into the world of these phenomena. Learn about haunted objects, featuring items from the museum’s collection, and have the chance to explore the museum’s attic.

Tickets are $30 per person. All proceeds benefit the Fulton County Historical Society in fulfilling its mission to acquire, preserve and promote the history of Fulton County, NY and to convey the significance to the public with tours, exhibits, programs, and research. Space is limited, so be sure to get your tickets today!

Brian J. Cano is a distinguished paranormal researcher, renowned for his extensive contributions to the field. With a passion for the unknown and an insatiable curiosity, Brian has dedicated his life to unraveling the mysteries that lie beyond the realms of conventional understanding.

Brian’s journey into the paranormal began with a profound fascination during his formative years. This intrigue led him to delve deep into the study of the supernatural, exploring haunted locations and investigating unexplained phenomena with unwavering determination. It was in 2002 that the self-proclaimed skeptic teamed up with friend Chris Mancuso as they shared their urban exploration of well-known haunts on their homebase of Staten Island. The cable access show, Scared on Staten Island (2002-2004) quickly grew in popularity and it was not long before the show title was changed to Scared! (2004-2013) with Brian and Chris venturing beyond the Island to explore notorious places such as Danvers Mental Institution, Philadelphia State Hospital, Eastern State Penitentiary, and The Lizzie Borden House. These trailblazers unknowingly set a precedent for the onslaught of paranormal TV shows seen today.

A pivotal moment in Brian’s career came with his appearances on television, where he captivated audiences worldwide with his expertise and authentic approach. His numerous TV appearances include Most Terrifying Places in America (2010), Haunted Collector, Bermuda Triangle – Science of the Abyss, Paranormal Caught on Camera, The Curse of Oak Island – Drilling Down, Doomsday Caught on Camera, and The UnXplained – with William Shatner. Brian brings a unique perspective and invaluable insight to the shows, earning him a reputation as one of the foremost authorities in the field.

In addition to his television work, Brian is the visionary behind his trailblazing History of the Paranormal Exhibit. Introduced in 2018, the Exhibit was taken mobile in 2020 with successful showings at twelve historical locations (NJ, PA, NY, CT, MA, VT, RI, OH, IN, DE, NH, WV) thus far. The ultimate goal? ALL 50 states! This immersive experience showcases the rich tapestry of supernatural lore throughout history, offering visitors a glimpse into the enigmatic world of ghosts, cryptids, and otherworldly phenomena. Through meticulous research and curation, Brian has created a compelling narrative that bridges the gap between past and present, shedding light on the enduring fascination with the unknown.

Brian’s passion for the paranormal extends beyond the screen and museum walls. He is also an accomplished author, having penned the acclaimed book Grains of Sand: A Journey Through the Paranormal that earned him the spot of 2022 Finalist – Next Generation Indie Book Awards. In this seminal work, Brian shares his firsthand encounters, expert analysis, and profound insights gleaned from years of dedicated research. Through captivating storytelling and thought-provoking revelations, Grains of Sand invites readers to embark on an unforgettable exploration of the unexplained, challenging preconceived notions and inspiring a deeper understanding of the mysteries that surround us.

With his boundless enthusiasm, unwavering commitment, and unparalleled expertise, Brian J. Cano continues to push the boundaries of paranormal research, leaving an indelible mark on the field and inspiring future generations to seek answers in the shadows.

Psychic Faire with Into Wishin’
Saturday, November 16th, 11am-4pm
$5 per person (readers set their own fees)

Join the Fulton County Historical Society and Into Wishin’ Studio & Crystal Shop for a Psychic Faire on Saturday, November 16th from 11am-4pm. Intuitive readers from the Capital Region will be available for consultation and Into Wishin’ will offer a variety of crystals and other items for purchase. Explore the museum’s exhibits and hear evidence of spiritual activity in the building captured by paranormal investigators. Admission is $5 per person. Fees for readings will be set by the individual readers. A list of readers and contact information will be available soon. Interested readers should email ssaladino@fultoncountyhistoricalsociety.org.

The Psychic Faire aims to partner with readers, business owners, and members of the community, while raising awareness about this spectacular piece of history right in Fulton County. Proceeds will support the FCHS.