Our Mission
The mission of the Fulton County Historical Society is 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.
Our Vision
The Fulton County Historical Society and Museum will be a vibrant history center and museum engaging the community and its residents in supporting and investing in the collection, preservation, and interpretation of Fulton County’s past.
Our History
The FCHS was formed on May 22, 1952. Shortly after the Society was established, a certificate of incorporation for a county historical society was found at the Gloversville Free Library, dated March 20, 1891, indicating that a historical society had been established 61 years previously. With no official headquarters, meetings were held at the Gloversville High School. The FCHS received its absolute charter from the New York State Board of Regents on April 28, 1972.
The FCHS and museum are housed in the former Kingsboro school building, built in 1900 on the site of the Kingsboro Academy. The Academy was established in 1831 by Rev. Elisha Yale as a private school; it became a public elementary school in 1863. Upon the completion of a new building for Kingsboro Elementary in 1972, the FCHS was given the old school for use as a museum. It opened its doors to the public in March 1973.
Permanent exhibits explore our community’s educational history, glove and leather heritage, military service, civic organizations, businesses, FJ&G Railroad, sports history, and more.
Through interactive and innovative programs and events for all ages, the FCHS encourages exploration of our past and actively participates in our community’s efforts to create a vibrant center of arts, culture, and commerce to improve quality of life in our county.