Waterford Museum Blog

Remember the Museum when making your end of the year doantions

2011-12-20T08:40:00.000-08:00

Dear Friend,

Another year has passed, and I wanted to let you know of all the good things that our museum has been able to bring to the community despite the dual challenges of a recovering economy, and rising operational costs. I’m sure you will agree that our programs have both breadth and depth, for the young and the young at heart.

Our Immigrant Exhibit Series culminated by documenting Waterford’s Irish-American community, and included a wonderful collection of oral histories gathered from over 75 of your friends and neighbors. That dovetailed nicely with our 10th Annual Concert Under the Stars and Irish Festival at the Waterford Harbor Visitor’s Center, where over 3,500 people enjoyed Hair of the Dog, Irish foods, beers, and crafts on a glorious summer day!

Do you remember when our “Canalways” was just for Waterford Elementary students? Would you believe that it has since blossomed into our Fourth Grade Education Program, serving over 500 students, teachers, and chaperones. The Pancake Breakfast, and Spring and Fall bus trips were as popular and well attended as ever, with Emily Wilson’s Day Trippers exploring and enjoying house museums and delicious luncheons. And back by popular demand, Dr. Joe Goss’ Science and Technology Lecture Series is in its second season, feeding both minds and bodies. Our First Friday Open houses featured New York State wines, and local home brews. If you haven’t joined in on the fun of the bus trips, lectures, or First Friday Open Houses, you don’t know what you’re missing!

Anyone who has embarked on a home improvement project that unexpectedly doubled in size and cost surely might be able to sympathize with our plight. Thanks to a legislative initiative from Assemblyman Canestrari and a loan from the Waterford IDA, we were able to replace the decking on our main porch and small front porch, as well as install a new security system. Ripping up the rotting boards led to a grim discovery—the pylons holding the porch and the massive columns were no longer structurally sound. This was an expense we were not prepared to take on, but one that could not be avoided. On the bright side, literally, we now have a beautifully restored pendant light befitting the Homestead, thanks to equal doses of Ted Taylor’s generosity and elbow grease.

Just how do we continue to bring fun and interesting events to you year after year with less and less in our budget? It’s because we have a dedicated and hard working staff, Board of Trustees, and volunteers who are always going above and beyond. We were forced to make the tough decision to reduce Director Brad Utter’s hours to make ends meet. But I’m afraid a bare bones budget and staff and volunteer hard work is not enough this time, we desperately need your financial commitment to keep the lights on and our doors open. For these important reasons I urge you now, in addition to your annual membership dues, to make a financial contribution to our Annual Appeal Campaign. Remember, your donation is tax deductible.

To make a donation via PayPal just visit the Museum's webpage- www.waterfordmuseum.com

Very truly yours,

Patricia Burke
President

Wine & Cheese Tasting at the Waterford Museum

2011-11-16T11:00:00.000-08:00

The Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center will be hosting a wine and cheese tasting fundraiser featuring New York State wines on Friday, December 2nd, 6 p.m. – 9p.m. Admission to the event is $10, which will include a complimentary wine glass. A local wine expert will be on hand to discuss the various wines. The Museum will be open during the event and visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibits and shop in the Museum’s Holiday Gift Shop for one of a kind holiday gifts. All profits go toward the Museum’s general operating funds. The 1830 Hugh White Homestead will be decorated for the holidays.
The Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center is located in the 1830 Hugh White Homestead on Museum Lane in the Town of Waterford. The Museum offers various programs and exhibits year round. For more information about the Museum and its programs please contact the Museum at 238-0809 or check our website www.waterfordmuseum.com OR- KEEP AN EYE ON THIS BLOG).

Madison Handbag Fundraiser

2011-11-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

Get Your Fashion Groove On…PURSES WITH A PURPOSE

How about a little you time? I bet your girlfriends could use it too! A few hours devoted to fun, friends, and fashion could just be the answer. Come on and join us for some sparkling drinks, a few simple snacks, and spend some uninterrupted time having fun. When was the last time you did that?
Surround yourself with fabulous friends and gorgeous fabrics. Design a custom Madison Handbag that fits your unique personality. Share that experience with the girls and walk away with a fashionable memory… a very special handbag designed just for you, by you. It’s just three easy steps: select your bag, choose your fabric, and order your design! The Waterford Museum gets 10% of all proceeds. Pressure free shopping with a personal touch…it doesn’t get any better than that.
Stop by the Waterford Museum after work on Thursday, December 1 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Support a local business this holiday season—Madison Handbags, and the Waterford Museum!
http://www.madisonhandbags.com/

Eerie Walking Tour and Ghost Hunts at the Waterford Rural Cemetery and along the Old Champlain Canal

2011-10-19T09:10:00.000-07:00

This event has been cancelled due to the snow headed our way tomorrow.

The Waterford Museum, along with the Waterford-Halfmoon School Band, will be sponsoring three different experiences– history walking tour of the cemetery in the dark and two real Ghost Hunts, one at the Waterford Rural Cemetery and one along the Old Champlain Canal Towpath.
Saturday, October 29th
Eerie Walking Tours of the Cemetery– Three eerie walking tours will be held in the cemetery 7pm, 7:30pm and 8pm. $5 per person. Learn about some of Waterford’s past residents and look out for ghosts and goblins! Meet tour in front of cemetery office. Parking is available in back.

Ghost Hunts
Old Champlain Canal Towpath 7pm.
Waterford Rural Cemetery at 9pm. Meet in front of the cemetery office, off of Saratoga Ave. for both “hunts.”
*Reservations required - payment in advance $20. Call or e-mail the Museum to reserve your spot. Registration for each hunt is limited to 20 people. The cost is $20.00 per hunt and includes copies of all of the evidence that is collected. This will include audio and video and any still photos. Participants are encouraged to bring their own digital recorders and video cameras as long as they have night vision capabilities. Some of the newest available equipment to read fluctuating electro-magnetic fields, as well as recording equipment, will be used during the hunt. Each hunt will take 1 to 2 hours.
Each hunt will be limited to 20 people. Participants must be 18 years old or older. Ghost Hunt fee also includes the walking tour. Call or e-mail the Museum to reserve your spot. Send check or money order to:
Waterford Museum, 2 Museum Lane
Waterford, NY 12188

Science and Technology Lecture Series

2011-10-17T07:52:00.000-07:00

The Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center proudly
announces our second annual Science and Technology Lecture Series, with your host and moderator Dr. JB Goss. Enjoy splendid food, fascinating facts, great conversation and engaging company though the Fall and Winter at 7pm on the second Thursday of every month at Costanzo's, one of this areas fine restaurants.

Come in out of the cold and join us for the following talks/discussions:
November 10th: NASA's Search for Life in the Galaxy. (What are the prospects of finding life elsewhere in the galaxy? How are such measurements
possible? When will we have the capability to do so?) Speaker: John W. Delano, Ph.D.; Distinguished Teaching Professor, Department of Atmospheric & Environmental
Science, UAlbany; Associate Director of a NASA Astrobiology Institute at RPI and scientist for NASA.

December 8th: Cross-Country Skiing for Beginner/Intermediate Skier. A lecture on Cross-Country Skiing for the Beginner/Intermediate Skier. Whether in the mountains or in your local park, cross-country skiing is fun and easy to learn. Hear about equipment, clothes and best places to ski with expert Rich Macha, owner of Adirondack Paddle'n'Pole, one of the area's leading outfitters for both xc skiing and paddling. Talk begins at 7pm followed by question and answer session.

January 12th: Why We Sleep, Dream and other Mysteries of the Brain - Part II. What do your dreams mean? Why do we sleep? Do we really only use a small amount of our brains? Can people hear colors and see sounds? What do rabbits know that humans do not? Speaker: JB Goss, Ph.D.; clinician, scientist and writer presents more fascinating facts about our mysterious human brains.

February 9th- Forged for Clandestine Warfare: the little known history of a Confederate secret weapon. Come and hear a fascinating recounting of this
virtually here-to-fore unknown aspect of the Civil War and see one of only three known surviving examples of the actual device. Mr. Thatcher's newly published book on this subject, , will be available for purchase. Joseph M. Thatcher, Fellow and Past President of the Company of Military Historians, and recently retired Supervising Curator for the New York State Bureau of Historic Sites. Author of: “Confederate Coal Torpedo:Thomas Courtenay's Infernal Sabotage Weapon”

March 8th: Grand Unveiling of the New “Making Waterford Our Home: Online” website, with Brad Utter, Director of the WHMCC and Aine Leader-Nagy, Lead Researcher and Oral Historian for the Making Waterford Our Home series. Brad and Aine will take the audience through the new online exhibit adding special insight to the process and the results.

April 12th-Local Waterfalls: Workhorses of the Industrial Revolution. It was both waterfalls & the absence of waterfalls that made N.Y. the Empire State. Learn how, why, and the location of these magnificent waterfalls with Russell Dunn & Barbara Delaney who are both N.Y.S. licensed guides and authors of regional guidebooks on waterfalls, hiking and paddling.

Please check our website, website blog and/or Facebook for the latest news.

At Costanzo's Riverside Restaurant, 405 Hudson River Road, Waterford, NY 12188 Waterford, NY 12188
Dinner Special- $9.99
Includes Salad Bar
Choose from; Chicken Parmesan with Pasta, Eggplant Parmesan with Pasta, Spaghetti w/ Meatballs or Sausage, Broiled Haddock or Costanzo Eight Ounce NY Strip Steak. Special can not be combined with coupons or other offers.

Program Runs 7-8pm, Registration Starts at 6:30pm. Food & Drink available for PURCHASE all evening. Suggested donation is $6 per person ($5 members)

Space is limited and pre-registration is recommended by calling. 518-238-0809 or by
e-mail info@waterfordmuseum.com

Annual O’Connor Lecture: Irish Bridgets

2011-10-07T05:49:00.001-07:00

The Waterford Museum proudly announces that the Annual O’Connor Lecture about “Irish Bridgets” on October 26, 2011, at 7pm. Our featured speaker will be Dr. Margaret (“Peggy”) Lynch-Brennan who will discuss her book, The Irish Bridget: Irish Immigrant Women in Domestic Service in America, 1840-1930. The lecture topic is inspired by the Museum’s current exhibit “Making Waterford Our Home: Irish.”

“Bridget” was the Irish immigrant servant girl (i.e., cook, waitress, chambermaid, etc.) who lived and worked in American homes from the second half of the nineteenth century into the early years of the twentieth. She was a widely known cultural cliché in popular American literature of the period--the young Irish girl who wreaked havoc in middle-class American homes. In her presentation on her book, which is the first book-length treatment of the topic, Dr. Lynch-Brennan will give voice to these young Irish women, many of whom worked in the Capital Region and whose descendants still live in the Capital Region, to celebrate their untold contribution to the ethnic history of the United States.

The event will take place at the Museum and admission to the lecture is complimentary and light refreshments will be served.

Thank You Waterford

2011-08-17T07:30:00.000-07:00

On behalf of the Waterford Museum and the 10th Annual Concert Under the Stars and Irish Festival Committee, I would like to thank the community of Waterford for their support for our recent event on Saturday, August 13 at the Waterford Harbor.

Inspired by the Waterford Museum’s current exhibit “Making Waterford Our Home: Irish,” the concert and Irish Festival brought the community together to celebrate our shared heritage and appreciation of Irish culture.

Hair of the Dog put on a great show and helped to draw an enthusiastic crowd to the waterfront. But the record turnout would not have been possible with out the support of all of our sponsors, especially Momentive Performance Materials, New York State Marine Highway, the historic railroad barge "Pennsylvania Railroad 399," Brown’s Brewing Company and the Town and Village of Waterford. The extra support provided by the Town Police and Rescue Squad helped to make the event a safe and enjoyable environment for all.

The 10th Annual Concert Under the Stars and Irish Festival was a great success and helped to raise some much needed funds for the Museum. We are excited to begin planning for the 2012 event and with the continued support of the community we know it will be another success!

Sincerely,

Brad Utter, Director

Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center

Co-Chair 10th Annual Concert Under the Stars Committee

10th Annual Concert Under the Stars and Irish Festival

2011-08-03T07:20:00.000-07:00

10th Annual Concert Under the Stars and Irish Festival
August 13, 2011, 3pm - 9pm at the Waterford waterfront
Featuring Hair of the Dog

This Irish Festival will be held at the Waterford waterfront and will include Irish-themed music, entertainment, food, and Irish themed vendors. Schedule Below

Some vendors who will be there:
* Black Watch Steakhouse. Their menu will consist of: Irish Stew with bread, Cod Caserole, and Apple Cider Donut Bread Pudding with Vanilla Ginger Cream Sauce!
Ben & Jerry's
and more

Schedule of Events
1:30pm Irish Themed Canal Tour– Walk the old towpath with local author Russ Vandervoort and hear some stories from the old canal days. Meet at Lock 2 park. Pre-registration is requested, but not required – RSVP – info@waterfordmuseum.com or 238-0809

3:00pm– Opening Ceremonies at Waterford Harbor Visitor Center-
Immediately following ceremonies there will be a concert by the Scotia Glenville Pipe Band

4:00pm- Irish Dancers-Tentative

4:30 – 6:30pm- “The Boys of Wexford” playing Irish folk music.

7pm-9pm- the Concert Under the Stars featuring the “Hair of the Dog” live on the Tug Grand Erie

All Day- restaurant venders, Irish themed
merchants, Irish themed heritage groups, family activities and more.

3pm- 9pm- Microbrewery Beer Tasting aboard the historic railroad barge “Pennsylvania Railroad 399” featuring the beers of Brown’s Brewing Co. of Troy. The tasting will cost $20, which will include a free glass. All proceeds go toward the Museum.

IF RAIN, the festival and concert will be held at the Waterford Halfmoon School, 125Middletown Road, Waterford

Special thank you to our major sponsors - New York State Marine Highway,
Momentive Performance Materials, the Town of Waterford and the Village of Waterford.

10th Annual Concert Under the Stars and Irish Festival

2011-05-27T09:11:00.000-07:00

10th Annual Concert Under the Stars and Irish Festival
Featuring Hair of the Dog
"...America's number one Irish folk band."
August 13, 2011

Plans are underway for this big event which will replace Heritage Day this year. The festival will take place along the Waterford waterfront from the early afternoon until 9pm. We are putting together a day of all things Irish and welcome your ideas and your help!

To share your ideas and/or to express interest in helping out please e-mail the Museum at info@waterfordmuseum.com

Janney Contributes Toward CanalWays and DVC Positions

2011-05-27T09:09:00.001-07:00

The Museum is proud to announce that Janney Montgomery Scott, LLC, a full-service financial services firm, has made a contribution of $1,250 toward our CanalWays fourth grade education program and our Docent Volunteer Coordinator (DVC). The donation will help pay the salaries of our CanalWays Project Coordinator and DVC.

These funds have enabled us to re-hire Aine Leader-Nagy to continue her work as the DVC. We have also been able to hire Aaron Robinson as our new CanalWays Project Coordinator. This will enable us to maintain our expanded hours on Saturdays and continue to run our successful CanalWays program.

Expanded Gift Shop

2011-05-27T09:08:00.002-07:00

The Museum has expanded its inventory for the gift shop and will continue to do so over the next few months. We have purchased over 800 new children’s books priced between $1.50 and $7.00! The books represent a wide variety of topics and are sure to please the pickiest child.
We also have new books for adults, like local canal expert Russ VanDervoort’s new book “Canal Canaries: and Other Tough Old Birds” and we have the last run of the “Erie Canal Through Saratoga County” by Amelia O’Shea. This hard to find book will sell out quickly so stop by to get your copy today!

THANK YOU

2011-05-27T09:08:00.001-07:00

Thank you to McGreivey’s for hosting the wonderful IrishFord night and for donating $5 per person to the Museum!

Thank you Maloney’s Flower Shop for donating a flower arrangement for our opening and a gift certificate that we will be raffling off at our next First Friday.

Thank you Keybank for the 21st Annual Neighbors Make the Difference Day. Although we got rained out, we appreciate the efforts of our local Keybank staff who were ready to help.

Thank you Tim Starr for donating 10 copies of his book “Invented in Saratoga County.” Now on sale in our gift shop!

A Case for Conservation

2011-05-27T09:06:00.000-07:00

From our most recent Newsletter-
Featured Artifact: 1854 pencil-on-paper sketch of Isaac Newtown Eddy’s burial site. This article is a follow up to the one which appeared in our last Piece of History written by our guest columnist Paul Schneider, Independent Historian.
For a quick reminder I have inserted a section of his article-

Dating from late 1854 this sketch was drawn by a sailor named Walter A. Kizar, a former crew member of the schooner Eleanor, on which Thomas Jefferson Eddy’s oldest son, Isaac Newton Eddy, briefly served until his early death, at age 19, thousands of miles from home.
In pursuit of the truth of his son’s disappearance from Waterford in 1853, Thomas traveled to Salem, Massachusetts to talk with the Captain of the Eleanor. In a letter dated November 1854 he recounts the origin of the sketch:
“...he [Benjamin Swasey, Captain of the Eleanor] introduced me to a young man, Walter A Kizar ….He is very good at drawing and made me a sketch of Comoro, the tree where Newton and Allen [another sailor] were buried, how their graves are located as described by Captain Swasey.”
Kizar promised to send Thomas a more complete sketch; this is the one believed to now be in the museum’s collections. When Thomas returned to Waterford, he commissioned local artist Ralph A. Savage to memorialize his son’s final resting place through the creation of a painting based on the details provided in Kizar’s sketch. The painting survives today in the collections of the Albany Institute of History and Art, but the sketch from which that painting was done was never mentioned again and was presumed lost—until I opened that folded piece of paper in 2010!

Paul ended the article by saying that we had arranged for a conservator to view the sketch and provide us with an estimate to have it conserved and properly mounted for viewing and storage. We did just that and we have a treatment proposal for this wonderful treasure.
The treatment proposal includes: minor surface cleaning; humidification to flatten the piece; structural repairs; mounting and preservation framing. The new frame will be a UV filtering acrylic box that will allow viewing of the front and back while providing the safest environment possible to help ensure the longevity of the sketch for future generations.
The total cost for all of this work is only $500. We are looking for a sponsor or sponsors to help fund this project– to save a true piece of Waterford’s history.
If you would like to donate toward our Conservation Fund, please send a check or money order to the Waterford Museum, Conservation Fund, 2 Museum Lane, Waterford, N.Y.

Museum to Offer Free Admission to Military Families Memorial Day – Labor Day

2011-05-27T09:04:00.002-07:00

The Waterford Museum is proud to announce the launch of Blue Star Museums, a partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and more than 1,300 museums across America to offer free admission to all active duty military personnel and their families from Memorial Day through Labor Day 2011. Leadership support has been provided by the MetLife Foundation through Blue Star Families. The complete list of participating museums is available at www.arts.gov/bluestarmuseums.

“The Waterford Museum is proud to give free admission to military families as just a small gesture of our gratitude for all they to do preserve our freedom,” stated Museum Director, Brad Utter.

Wish List—

2011-05-27T09:04:00.001-07:00

Sponsor for Adobe Creative Suite 3 (or higher)- this would help us work with photographs and design exhibits. Roughly $500 for older version up to $1,500 for newer version.
Newer Model Dehumidifier
8 1/2 x 11 Photo Paper
Stamps
Sponsor for an Area Rug to go in the Chestnut Room/Gift Shop- $150-$200

New Porch and Updated Security Becoming Reality

2011-05-27T09:03:00.000-07:00

As you may remember, the Museum received a legislative initiative of $10,000 from Assemblyman Canestari in the 2009-10 State budget. The grant process requires that the Museum pay for the services and then get reimbursed by the State. This provided the Museum with a challenge and the Town of Waterford IDA has come to our rescue and is providing the Museum with a non-interest loan so we can get the work started.
The work will be completed in June and will include new decking for our main porch and an updated security system.

Thank You Assemblyman Canestari and the Waterford IDA!

Museum Receives Grants for Online Immigrant Exhibit

2011-05-27T09:02:00.002-07:00

We are proud to announce that we have received two grants toward our next exhibit in the immigrant series, “Making Waterford Our Home: Online.” We have been awarded $4,846 from the New York State Council on the Arts and $3,000 from the New York Council for the Humanities. Board member Patrick Richar is donating his time as our web designer! The project would not be possible without this huge donation!
The new website will include an exhibit comparing the experiences of each of the immigrant groups we have researched. Work for the project has already begun and we are planning to include interactive maps, walking tours, a database with additional information and a way for people to submit more family stories, genealogy and pictures for our collection.

The Irish Bring Out Further Support
Support for the Irish exhibit and the Immigrant Series has been tremendous. Mohawk Fine Papers has donated $1,000 for the series and over $500 from private donors has been received! One Day Signs donated the panels and banners for the exhibit!

Thank you for your
support!

Thank you Town of Waterford and Waterford IDA

2011-05-27T09:02:00.001-07:00

Once again the Town of Waterford government has demonstrated its commitment to heritage tourism and the preservation and interpretation of Waterford’s treasured past by appropriating $5,000 to the Museum. These much needed and appreciated funds will help the Museum to pay general operating expenses.
The Waterford Industrial Development Agency has also stepped up to help the Museum as an anchor of Waterford’s tourism efforts by granting the Museum $2,000 to help purchase new marketing materials.
THANK YOU!

Making Waterford Our Home: Irish Exhibit Now Open

2011-05-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

Come see our third installment of this popular
series and learn the story of
Waterford, New York’s Irish-Americans.

First Fridays 7-9pm at the Museum
June 3rd – Made in Ireland– come explore special Irish antiques that will be on display courtesy of “Tipperary at Tara” from Brunswick. Irish themed refreshments will be available.
August 5th – Home Brewing Tasting and Pipers- come sample some locally brewed Irish beer and enjoy the music of a local Irish pipe band.

Spring Day Trip to West Point, N.Y. Wednesday, April 20, 2011

2011-03-16T06:09:00.000-07:00

The Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center’s Spring Day Trip will be Wednesday, April 20, 2011 to the United States Military
Academy at West Point, N.Y.
The 90 minute tour is a combined bus and walking tour with a guide on the coach telling the story of West Point, its role in the American Revolution and its famous history with stories about graduates who shaped our nation.
After lunch at the historic Thayer Hotel, we will spend time at the
Visitors Center and Museum.

Lunch: will be at the historic Thayer Hotel on the grounds of West Point. A
buffet lunch menu will be served and based on chef selection: usually salads, soup of the day, hot entrees, assorted desserts, brewed coffee and assorted teas.

Departure: 8:00 a.m. from the rear parking lot across from the Wesleyan Church, 75 Grace Street,Northside, Waterford. Approximate return to Waterford 5:00 p.m.

Cost: Current members- $75.00 - non-members $80.00. Price includes parking, motor coach transportation with Wade tours, admission fees, guided tour and lunch.

Please note- Due to security regulations all persons registering for this trip will need to bring government issued photo ID, such as drivers license or current passport, and provide complete date of birth.

Paid Reservations by April 6, 2011
Call in your reservations to Emily Wilson at 518-237-7122. Please have the following
information ready when you call– Name, DOB, gender, type of ID and country or state of ID issue. A completed manifest has to be sent to West Point with complete information one week prior to the trip.
Please make checks payable to the Waterford Historical Museum and mail directly to:
Emily Wilson, Treasurer
26 Columbus Ave., Waterford N. Y. 12188

Canal Clean Sweep at the Old Champlain Lock 4

2011-03-16T06:08:00.001-07:00

Saturday, April 16th
Volunteers Needed to Help Clean
Around Lock 4
Once again this year we will be joining forces with the NYS Canal Corporation and Parks and Trails New York by participating in their Canal Clean Sweep on Saturday, April 16th. Our project will be working on cleaning the area around old Lock #4 which is directly in front of the Museum. We will be meeting at 9:00 a.m. at the Museum.

THANK YOU

2011-03-16T06:07:00.001-07:00

Thank you to Ward and Teri Patton for their donation of the paint used cover the entire first floor of the outside of the Homestead.

Thank you and good bye to the Troy Arts Guild. The Guild who met at the Museum monthly, decided to cease operations. Their last official act as a group was to donate the remaining funds in their bank account to the Museum.

Thank you to McGreivey’s and the Broad Street Café for hosting our successful Science and Lecture Series and to
Joe Goss for organizing the great program!

Exhibit Series Sponsors Needed

2011-03-16T06:06:00.002-07:00

Over the past year we have been researching the Irish population of Waterford. All of the research will culminate in an exhibit that is set to open in May and run until March, 2012. But, we need your help! Sponsors are needed to help make this exhibit reach its potential.
If you would like to make a donation toward the Museum exhibit fund please send a check or money order to the Museum or make a donation online through PayPal at our website. Donor’s names will be listed in the credits of the exhibit.
Send Your Tax Deductible Donation to:
Waterford Museum, Exhibit Fund
2 Museum Lane
Waterford, NY 12188

From the Director

2011-03-16T06:06:00.001-07:00

Spring is just weeks away and we ARE busy. Aine, Aaron, Paul and I are working hard to pull the Irish exhibit together in time for our May 6th opening. I also have been applying for grants and writing for sponsorships, ultimately trying to keep our programming at the level you have come to expect from the Museum and that we expect of ourselves. So it is a challenging time and an exciting time.
As you will see throughout the year the Board and staff are doing our best to bring in more funds to the Museum. Joe Goss’s Science and Technology Series is one such example. It was a tremendous success and brought new monies and reached out to new audiences! The first big change for 2011 is that the Board has decided to charge admission to the Museum this year. The charge will be $5 for adults and free for children 18 and under; members will also be free. The gift shop will be enhanced this year with an expanded inventory of new books and other items. We will also be undertaking new marketing efforts that you will witness as we move forward. There will be some new fundraisers and programs to come and we hope you will join us at these events– not only helping us to keep the status quo– but helping us to be better!

Thank you for your support! Brad

“IrishFord” Museum Dinner Night at McGreivey’s

2011-03-16T06:04:00.002-07:00

“IrishFord” Museum Dinner Night at McGreivey’s

In honor of our new Irish exhibit, the Museum has partnered up with McGreivey’s “The Original Irish Restaurant and Pub in Waterford” to do a fundraiser Irish dinner on April 28th. The Irish themed event will include appetizer hour, a four course meal paired with five Irish beers.
The fee is $40 per person (which includes a $5 donation to the Museum), plus tax and gratuity. Make Reservations Now by calling McGreiveys Directly! (518) 238-2020. Space is limited to 80 people!
For full menu featuring Irish foods and beers check out our website and/or Facebook page.
www.waterfordmuseum.com

Annual Pancake Breakfast

2011-03-16T06:04:00.001-07:00

Sunday, April 10th

Join us at our Annual Pancake Breakfast fundraiser which will be Sunday, April 10th, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Waterford Civic Center. This is one of our major fund raising activities for the year. If you can’t come, please send a donation to help us meet our goal of $1,100.
Waterford Civic Center
Third Street, in the Village of Waterford

Docent Training

2011-03-16T06:03:00.002-07:00

This season we will have two separate training classes. The Practical Training class will cover docent responsibilities as well as address new Museum policies. The Understanding the Exhibit class will lend insight into the latest exhibit. The classes are free and open to anyone interested in serving as a volunteer guide at the Museum. All classes are held at the Museum. Contact Aine at 238-0809 or dvc@waterfordmuseum.com to sign up. If you are interested in either of these classes but are unable to attend the dates offered, please contact Aine to make other arrangements.

REQUIRED: Practical Training:
April 26th, 9-10am OR 6:30-7:30pm

RECOMMENDED: Understanding the Exhibit:
May 12th, 9-10am OR 6:30-7:30pm

Making Waterford Our Home: Irish Exhibit Opening

2011-03-16T06:03:00.001-07:00

May 6, 2011, 6-8pm,Admission is Complimentary
Come is see our third installment of this popular
series and learn the story of
Waterford, New York’s Irish-Americans.

Museum Wish List

2011-01-07T10:10:00.001-08:00

Wish List— newer model dehumidifier,8 1/2 x 11 photo paper, power strip with circuit breaker, and we can always use stamps.

Calling all GE Employees and GE Retirees

2011-01-07T10:08:00.000-08:00

Calling all GE Employees and GE Retirees
We are registered with the GE Foundation employee matching program. The GE Foundation will match GE Employee’s and GE Retiree’s donations to the Museum. We ask that GE Employees remember the Museum when donating to their favorite non-profit agency. Contact the GE Foundation to let them know about your donation.

Village Officials Support Museum

2011-01-07T10:07:00.001-08:00

Village Officials Support Museum
The Museum received a stipend of $1,200 from the Village of Waterford to help with general operating expenses. The Village also sponsored the Concert Under the Stars and the Marching Band for the Heritage Day parade! Many of the wonderful events and programs would not be possible without the support of the Village of Waterford.
Thank You Village of Waterford!

NYCH Grant for $2,500 for Irish Exhibit Planning

2011-01-07T10:06:00.000-08:00

NYCH Grant for $2,500 for Irish
Exhibit Planning

We are proud to announce that we have received a New York Council for the Humanities mini-grant for $2,500 to help pay for the planning costs for our upcoming Irish exhibit. The money will be used to help pay for Aine Leader-Nagy to continue on as our Lead Researcher for the exhibit. Her main tasks will be compiling the research, script development and assisting with the writing and editing of the exhibit script. As part of the script development we continue to collect information, oral histories, historic photographs and objects that will be used to help illustrate the lives of Waterford’s Irish community.
Our research phase for this project began in May of 2010 and will continue through the Fall. So far, a majority of the work has been done by Aaron Robinson. Aaron, currently a student in the UAlbany Public History Graduate Program, served as a full-time intern this past summer and will continue to volunteer to help see the project through to completion. He has been a tremendous help and has done an excellent job!

Museum Receives $4,900 NYSCA Grant

2011-01-07T10:05:00.000-08:00

Museum Receives $4,900
NYSCA Grant
For New Online Exhibit and Resource Database for our
Immigrant Series. Details to come soon.

Science and Technology Lecture Series Continues

2011-01-07T10:04:00.000-08:00

The Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center proudly announces our new Science and Technology Lecture Series. Enjoy splendid food, fascinating facts, great conversation and engaging company though the Fall and Winter at 7pm on the second Thursday of every month in Waterford. Registration starts at 6:30pm and food and drink will be available for purchase all evening.
Get out of the house, come out of the cold and enjoy an evening of great food and conversation at our new Science and Technology Lecture Series.
On January 13th, Dr JB Goss, Waterford Resident, Clinician, Scientist and Author will present a talk on dreams. What happens when we sleep? What have scientists learned about sleep? Do dreams have meaning? If so how do you interpret them? How do we differentiate real facts from fiction about sleep? Learn all of this and more.

Upcoming Topics-
• NEXT WEEK- January 13, 2011: Sleep and Dreaming, What do my dreams mean? Dr. J.B. Goss, Clinician & Scientist at the Broad Street Café, 7pm.
• February, 10, 2011: The mid-nineteenth century disappearance of a young man. Paul Schneider, Independent Historian. At McGrievey’s, 7pm.
• March, 10, 2011: Ask the Wildlife Pathologist. Q&A on nature, wild animals and our environment. Ward Stone, State Wildlife Pathologist. At McGrievey’s, 7pm.

NEW Complete Index to Hammersley’s “History of Waterford”

2010-09-01T06:53:00.001-07:00

Museum volunteer Kyle R. Patton worked for almost a year to complete the 55 page index/glossary. Every name that appears in the history is now in the index, as well as every organization, place, business and event that is in the book.
This is a tremendous new resource that we have already put to good use.
Thank you Kyle!

From the Director

2010-09-01T06:52:00.000-07:00

The Franco-American exhibit has been very well received and we have been conducting research all summer on Waterford’s Irish population. This Fall we will have an exciting new workshop series based on the Franco exhibit, a new Science and Technology Lecture Series which will take place at McGreiveys (see insert for more details), a wonderful Day Trip, a French Night Open House and much more.
The Museum is at a critical crossroads right now and we look to you, our members and supporters for help. Amidst this troubling time we strive to provide the best programming, exhibits and collections care that we can for the community. Your support can be in numerous forms like making a financial donation, sharing your fundraising ideas, volunteering for docent work, serving on a committee, attending programs, getting some friends to join or visiting the Museum.

Thank you for your support!
Brad

Attention Waterford’s Irish-Americans

2010-09-01T06:51:00.001-07:00

Are you of Irish descent? Has your family been in Waterford for multiple generations or did they immigrate to Waterford? If so, we want to speak with you. Help us write the history of Waterford’s Irish.
The next phase of our immigrant series is underway and we are now researching Waterford’s Irish-American population. We already have a few experts on board to help out, including one in Waterford, Ireland! This promises to be a fun project and we need your help!
We will be conducting interviews this Fall and we need your help! If you know someone of Irish-American descent from Waterford who might like to be interviewed please let us know. Call the Museum at 238-0809 or e-mail us at info@waterfordmuseum.com

Heritage Day- Thank You Volunteers and Sponsors

2010-09-01T06:47:00.000-07:00

Another successful Heritage Day and Concert Under the Stars is under our belts. It would not have been possible without the hard work of our wonderful volunteers and the support of our sponsors, who are too numerous to list here.
Although the weather hampered our plans and kept away some of the antique engines, there were many highlights over the course of the two day event.
A break in the rain allowed us to hold the concert and BBQ outside! We had a large crowd who danced the night away. We had our largest crowd ever for the parade! The wet down of J.W. Ford Hose’s new engine was truly a unique one of a kind event! Another highlight was that the late Catherine Button, great granddaughter of Lysander Button, was able to attend and wish the Button engine crews luck. Her support garnered a victory for the crew of the TW Lane, a Button engine from Mystic, Ct. as she looked on.
We will be developing a new theme for next year’s Heritage Day and look forward to all of your support and involvement.

See more pictures on our Facebook page. Just go to www.waterfordheritageday.com and click the Facebook link.

Fall Program Line-up

2010-09-01T06:45:00.000-07:00

October 1st– So you can Speak French? Join us for a special First Friday open House. We encourage you to come speak French. Of course, English speaking guests are encouraged to join us as well. 6-8pm.

October- See website for “Home Cooking Franco-American Style” Workshop series. http://www.waterfordmuseum.com/annualworkshop.htm

October 13th- Autumn Day Trip to Fort Edward and Granville, NY

October 20th- O’Connor Lecture Series –Annual Membership Meeting- Aine Leader-Nagy will give an interactive presentation on our Franco-American exhibit and research. 7pm

November 13th- Docent Appreciation Brunch

December 3rd– Holiday Open House- Friday evening wine & cheese tasting. 6-9pm.

December 4th- Holiday Open House- Decorate A Wreath Workshop

Programs still in the “works” Halloween Ghost and History Walking Tour, an additional Lecture as part of the O’Connor Lecture Series and more to be announced in early September. Keep an eye on our website for updates.

The Dessert Shoppe
All of our Fall programs that take place at the Museum will feature our new The Dessert Shoppe where we will be offering desserts and beverages for a modest fee.

Science and Technology Lecture Series

2010-09-01T06:44:00.000-07:00

Science and Technology
Lecture Series

The Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center proudly announces our new Science and Technology Lecture Series. Enjoy splendid food, fascinating facts, great conversation and engaging company though the Fall and Winter at 7pm on the second Thursday of every month at McGreiveys, one of this areas finest restaurants.
Waterford has an active and working harbor with a dozen or more boats from around the world docked here throughout the summer. Weekly Farmers Markets and countless annual special events have made Waterford an important destination. Three world-class canals and lock systems are central to our local history. Peebles Island (the State Park set on an island) boat launches, fishing wharfs and numerous hiking trails draw thousands here every summer.

Our new lecture series continues the Summer excitement into the Fall and Winter.

October 14, 2010: History of Emma Willard, Journey Through Waterford.
Trudy Hanmer, Teacher and Historian
November 11, 2010: Canoe and Kayak our Local Waterways PART ONE
Russell Dunn, Author
November 18, 2010: Introduction to Canoe and Kayaking PART TWO
Rich Macha, Owner of Adirondack Paddle and Pole
December 9, 2010: From River Village to Canal Town
Brad Utter, Director of WHMCC and Town Historian
January 13, 2011: Sleep and Dreaming, What do my dreams mean?**NOTE this lecture will be at the Broad Street Cafe, Broad Street Waterford
Dr. J.B. Goss, Clinician & Scientist
February, 10, 2011: The mid-nineteenth century disappearance of a young man.
Paul Schneider, Independent Historian.
March, 10, 2011: Ask the Wildlife Pathologist. Q&A on nature, wild animals and our environment. Ward Stone, State Wildlife Pathologist. At McGrievey’s, 7pm.

At McGreiveys, 91 Broad Street, Waterford, NY 12188

Program Runs 7-8pm, Registration Starts at 6:30pm
Food & Drink available for PURCHASE all evening.

The WHMCC nurtures, protects and preserves this rich heritage that annually brings visitors from around the world to our village. Get out of the house, come out of the cold and enjoy an evening of great food and conversation at our new Science and Technology Lecture Series.

Suggested donation is $6 per person ($5 members)
Food and Drink Are available for purchase throughout the evening.
Your host and moderator for the series is Museum Trustee, Dr J.B. Goss.
Space is limited and pre-registration is recommended by calling. 518-238-0809 or by
e-mail info@waterformuseum.com

More details on each presentation will be distributed this Fall!

Come Celebrate Firefighting Heritage July 23-24, 2010

2010-07-15T05:54:00.002-07:00

Waterford Heritage Day and Old Fashioned Firemen's Muster
Check the Heritage Day site for all of the latest information about the event.

Crafters & Artists Wanted for Heritage Day Celebration

2010-07-15T05:54:00.001-07:00

Crafters and artists of handmade items can reserve space now for Waterford’s Annual Heritage Day Celebration to be held on Saturday, July 24th at Garrett Field. For more information or to reserve space, visit the Heritage Day website at
www.waterfordheritageday.com or contact Nancy at 237-3931.

From the Director

2010-07-15T05:53:00.000-07:00

We kicked off the season with a another successful CanalWays program and the opening of our new Franco-American exhibit. We have received great positive feedback from both programs! As our energies turn toward Heritage Day and research on Waterford’s Irish, I encourage you to take part in the process or join us at one of our events. Heritage Day plans are coming together and promises to be very special as we help christen Ford Hose’s new fire engine, which proudly has “Home of the Button Fire Engine” on its door!
We have a new full time intern on board for the summer, his name is Aaron Robinson. Aaron is in the Public History graduate program at the University at Albany. He will be working with Aine and me on Irish exhibit research and he has already jumped in and helped at CanalWays.
Speaking of CanalWays, you can find CanalWays pictures and much more on our Facebook page, just go to our website and click on the link to Facebook, you do not need to have a Facebook account to see our page.
I encourage you all to take the opportunity to visit the Museum this year and join us for one of our many programs.
Thank you for your support!
Brad

Waterford Museum Day at the Aerospace Museum

2010-07-15T05:46:00.000-07:00

Members of the Waterford Museum will be treated to a special guided tour of the Empire State Aerosciences Museum (ESAM) on Tuesday, July 20th at 6:30pm. The tour, which will be free for our members, will be conducted by ESAM President Kevin Millington, who is also a member of the Waterford Museum.
The tour is FREE but we request that you make reservations in advance by calling the Waterford Museum at 238-0809 or by e-mail at info@waterfordmuseum.com by July 16th. For more information about the ESAM please check their website at www.esam.org.

Thank You KeyBank

2010-07-15T05:45:00.001-07:00

Neighbors Make a Difference Day

Thank you to the employees of KeyBank of Waterford, who volunteered to do yard work
at the Museum as part of the KeyBank’s “Neighbors Make a Difference Day.”

Attention Waterford’s Irish-Americans

2010-07-15T05:44:00.000-07:00

Are you of Irish descent? Has your family been in Waterford for multiple generations or did they immigrate to Waterford? If so, we want to speak with you. Help us write the history of Waterford’s Irish.
The next phase of our immigrant series is underway and we are now researching Waterford’s Irish-American population. We already have a few experts on board to help out, including one in Waterford, Ireland! This promises to be a fun project and we need your help!
If you know someone of Irish-American descent from Waterford who might like to be interviewed please let us know. Call the Museum at 238-0809 or e-mail us at
info@waterfordmuseum.com

Town Appropriates $5,000 for the Museum

2010-05-04T11:30:00.001-07:00

The money will be used toward general operating expenses. Thank you to the Town Board for this tremendous support!
We are thrilled that the Town Board is pleased with our success over the past few years. Our current and future success has a direct link to their support.

Museum Opens May 1st

2010-05-04T11:26:00.000-07:00

New exhibit- Making Waterford Our Home:Franco-Americans
New Parlor Display– the parlor will be set up to resemble a boy’s birthday party circa 1900.
Our Lock 4 Model has received some new improvements and will certainly please any canal enthusiast.
New items in the Gift Shop including: Postcards; note cards; toy train whistle and a new wood Jacob’s ladder game.
2010 Hours
May 1st — October 30th
Saturday 10 am - 4 pm
Sunday 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Wednesday—Friday 10 am - 2 pm
or open year round by
appointment. Researchers must make appointment.

Reminder Pancake Breakfast This Weekend

2010-04-21T08:37:00.001-07:00

Annual Pancake Breakfast
Sunday, April 25th

Join us at our Annual Pancake Breakfast fundraiser which will be Sunday, April 25th, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Waterford Civic Center. This is one of our major fund-raising activities for the year. If you can’t come, please send a donation to help us meet our goal of $1,100.
Waterford Civic Center
Third Street, in the Village of Waterford

Spring Day Trip to Hyde Park, N.Y. Wednesday, May 5, 2010

2010-03-05T06:11:00.000-08:00

The Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center’s spring Day Trip will be Wednesday May 5, 2010 to the Eleanor Roosevelt National Historic Site, Val-kill, and to the Vanderbilt National Historic Site in Hyde Park, N.Y. Come enjoy a spring day out and bring your friends.
The Eleanor Roosevelt N.H.S. is the only national park service site dedicated to an American First Lady. A short biographical film and a guided tour of the cottage will take place in the morning.
After lunch we will visit the Vanderbilt Mansion for a guided tour.
Lunch: at Coppola’s Italian American Bistro in Hyde Park. A hot and cold buffet will consist of salads, entrees, vegetables, dessert and beverages– coffee, tea or water. Soda or other beverages on your own.

Departure: 8a.m. from the rear parking lot across from the Wesleyan Church, 75 Grace Street, Northside, Waterford. There will be a brief coffee stop on the Thruway in the morning. Approximate return to Waterford 5p.m.
Cost: Current members- $70.00 - non-members $75.00. Price includes parking, motor coach transportation with Wade tours, admission fees, guided tours and lunch.

Paid Reservations by April 3, 2010
Make reservations today. Call in your reservations to
Emily Wilson at 518-237-7122.
Please make checks payable to the Waterford Historical Museum and mail directly to: Emily Wilson, Treasurer
26 Columbus Ave., Waterford N. Y. 12188

From the Director- Newsletter Column

2010-03-05T06:09:00.000-08:00

From the Director

Spring is around the corner and I can’t wait! Although we have not been hit by the snow, it has been cold. It is hard to sit and write to you all without passing on the sad news of the proposed cuts to the New York State Parks and Historic Sites. By the time you read this newsletter the announcement will have already been in the papers, but it is fresh on my mind. What is scary is the big picture and long term effects of such a move. Will Schulyer Mansion ever reopen once closed? What will happen with its collection, the wonderful building and visitor center? How about the staff? Will this history be lost? The next to get cut will be the funding agencies like the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) which has already taken large cuts. Our immigrant series has been made possible by grants through NYSCA and the New York Council on the Humanities. We are in the process of applying for another NYSCA grant to help with the online phase of the immigrant series and I am keeping my fingers crossed that there will be some money for NYSCA to even consider our application. I encourage you all to contact your elected state officials to express your feelings on this matter.
On a more happy note, I am pleased to say that the funding we received from NYSCA last year has helped purchase new exhibit furniture and exhibit elements like our new touch screen interactive station. These new items will help us better serve the public for many years. The French-Canadian or Franco-American exhibit will be the second exhibit to really benefit from these new improvements. Aine Leader-Nagy and I are hard at work putting together the new exhibit and we are thrilled with the turnout for interviews! The exhibit will open May 1st. If you are of Irish descent please start collecting your family history to share with us this summer and Fall.
Heritage Day and the Concert Under the Stars will be at a new time this year, July 23rd and 24th so please mark your calendars and plan to attend.
Thank you for your support! Brad

Eagle Scout Project

2010-03-05T06:07:00.002-08:00

Eagle Scout Project Improves Parking Lot
Anyone who has parked in our lot knows the challenge of not going too far off the pavement. Now, thanks to an Eagle Scout Project by Ryan Carlson of Troop 632 based in Waterford, this problem is a thing of the past. Ryan and members of Troop 632 moved our existing barriers closer to the parking lot and added three more. Now you can park with confidence!
Thank you Ryan and Troop 632!

Canal Clean Sweep

2010-03-05T06:07:00.001-08:00

Canal Clean Sweep at the Old Champlain Lock 4
Saturday, April 17th

Volunteers Needed to Help Clean Around Lock 4
Once again this year we will be joining forces with the NYS Canal Corporation and Parks and Trails New York by participating in their Canal Clean Sweep on Saturday, April 18th. Our project will be working on cleaning the area around old Lock #4 which is directly in front of the Museum.
We will be meeting at 8:30 a.m. at the Museum.

Annual Pancake Breakfast

2010-03-05T06:05:00.002-08:00

Annual Pancake Breakfast
Sunday, April 25th

Join us at our Annual Pancake Breakfast fundraiser which will be Sunday, April 25th, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Waterford Civic Center. This is one of our major fundraising activities for the year. If you can’t come, please send a donation to help us meet our goal of $1,100.
Waterford Civic Center
Third Street, in the Village of Waterford

Sponsors Needed for Franco-American Exhibit

2010-03-05T06:05:00.001-08:00

Sponsors Needed for
Franco-American Exhibit

Over the past year we have been researching French Canadians or Franco-Americans in Waterford. All of the research will culminate in an exhibit that is set to open in May and run until March, 2011. But, we need your help! Sponsors are needed to help make this exhibit reach its potential.
If you would like to make a donation toward the Museum exhibit fund please send a check or money order to the Museum or make a donation online through PayPal at our website. Donor’s names will be listed in the credits of the exhibit.
Send check to:
Waterford Museum, Exhibit Fund
2 Museum Lane
Waterford, NY 12188

Local Resident- "Baldy"

2009-12-17T06:16:00.000-08:00

"Baldy" is the name that I have given to our local Bald Eagles. Because I cannot tell them apart and I know there is more than one, I just call them all Baldy. I have seen Baldy at least once a week for the past month right out my window here at the Museum. Some weeks, I have seen one or more of them each day. Over the past few years there has been more and more eagles spending time in the winter here on the Mohawk. I still find it exciting each time I see one.
As a historian, I can't help but wonder if these wonderful birds were all around 100-150 years ago? Was it common for those who lived in Northside to spot eagles on their way to work in Cohoes each day?

Lock 4 on Old Champlain Canal

2009-12-17T06:08:00.001-08:00

Lock 4 is full of water! Apparently, the Canal Corp has opened the valves on the dam to allow more water flow into the Old Champlain Canal. This will help keep the water levels up near Lock 2 on the Barge Canal this winter.
Lock 4 is located right in front of the Museum.

Wine & Cheese Tasting and Gift Shop Sale

2009-11-25T10:19:00.000-08:00

Wine & Cheese Tasting at the Waterford Museum
Who: The Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center
What: Holiday Open House Wine & Cheese Tasting and Holiday Gift Shop
Where: Waterford Museum, 2 Museum Lane, Waterford NY
When: 2 Days- Wine and Cheese Tasting Fundraiser – Friday, December 4th, 6-9pm,
Open House- Saturday, December 5th, 1-4pm
Admission: $5 for Wine and Cheese Tasting Fundraiser, Saturday Open House Free
Details:
The Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center will be hosting a wine and cheese tasting fundraiser featuring New York State wines on Friday December 4th, 6 p.m. – 9p.m. Admission to the event is $5, which will include a complimentary wine glass. Wine expert Roger Savoy of Hennessy Homebrew Emporium will be hosting the wine tasting. The tasting is part of the Museum’s annual Holiday Open House festivities. Also part of the festivities, the Museum will be open on Saturday, December 5th, from 1p.m. to 4p.m. Visitors are invited to enjoy the exhibits and shop in the Museum’s Holiday Gift Shop which will have discounted prices for one day only. New Waterford greeting cards and postcards will be on sale as well as many other unique gift items. The 1830 Hugh White Homestead, which houses the Museum, will be decorated for the holidays. Refreshments will be served for Saturday’s open house and admission is complimentary.

Ghosts of Waterford and Beyond

2009-10-13T08:43:00.000-07:00

Ghosts of Waterford and Beyond
Presented by Author David J Pitkin

Friday, October 23, 2009 at 7PM
At the Waterford-Halfmoon School Auditorium
125 Middletown Road, Waterford NY
Admission is $3.00 per person or $10.00 per family

Co-Sponsored by the Waterford Halfmoon School Band
and the Waterford Museum

MYSTERY AND HISTORY
David J. Pitkin has sought the answers to mysteries throughout his life. At first a non-believer in ghosts, in 1968 he experienced footsteps on the floor of a barn loft that wasn’t there. Later, he discovered the loft, before being taken down, had been the site of a 1940 suicide.
When he moved to Saratoga Springs, he found an abundance of such stories relating to old historic houses and hotels. He also found many modern structures that had ghosts. He first wrote of these in his best-seller Saratoga County Ghosts in 1998, and again in Haunted Saratoga County in 2005. In 2002 he also published Ghosts of the Northeast, detailing over 200 eerie tales from New England, New York State and Canada.
In September 2006, Pitkin published New York State Ghosts, Vol. 1. Then, in July 2007, he published his first novel, The Highest Mountain: Death & Life in the Adirondacks, a metaphysical election year epic. In September 2008, he published his second NY State Ghosts volume.
A successful self-publisher, Pitkin is currently at work on New England Ghosts, hoping to publish it before Halloween 2010. Visit him at www.afterworld.info

Haunted History Walking Tour in the Waterford Rural Cemetery

2009-10-13T08:41:00.000-07:00

Haunted History Walking Tour in the Waterford Rural Cemetery
October 24 & 30, 2009
Co-Sponsored by the Waterford Historical Museum & Cultural Center
and the Waterford - Halfmoon School Band

Haunted or Un-Haunted

At the Waterford Rural Cemetery on Route 32/Saratoga Ave. in the Town of Waterford. Lines will form near the Cemetery office.
Daytime Tours (Un-Haunted) will be offered on the 24th
at 2pm and 3pm. There is no fee, but donations welcomed
Evening (Haunted) Tours will begin at 7 p.m.
and last one will depart at 8:45 p.m.

Evening Admission $3.00 per person $10.00 per family

Learn the history behind some of Waterford’s most famous and infamous families, but keep an eye out as there may be a ghost behind those stones.

Meet the Pathmaster

2009-10-08T11:23:00.000-07:00

Waterford History Highlighted at Conference
Local historian, Paul Schneider, has continued his research on the Eddy Family and will be presenting a paper at the upcoming Western Frontier Symposium to be held at the Fulton-Montgomery Community College, Johnstown, N.Y. in October. The focus of the conference is early transportation in the Mohawk Valley. Paul is going to present information culled from our collections relating to the extensive travel conducted by the Eddy’s to promote and sell their ink manufactured in Waterford, as well as other information relating to the business.
For more information about the conference please check their website at www.oldfortjohnson.org/symposium
Program at the Museum in conjunction with the Conference. The museum will be open Sunday afternoon October 18th from 2-4 p.m. We will have a half-hour special program offered twice at 2:15 p.m. and again at 3:15 p.m. Visitors will see Lock 4 of the original Champlain Canal and enjoy a short scenic walk along the canal towpath. They will be guided by the old path master who once worked on the canal and will explain his job and the history of the canal.
This program is open to the public and admission is complimentary.
For m

Heritage Week a Great Success!

2009-10-08T10:47:00.000-07:00

Heritage Week a Great Success!
Our first ever Heritage Week was a success and each of the events were well attended. The highlights of the week were the Concert Under the Stars, fireworks, firemen’s parade and muster on Heritage Day. Thank you to all of the committee members, sponsors, the Town Highway Department, the Town and Village of Waterford and all of our volunteers for making this event possible.
Check the Heritage Day website for more information- www.waterfordheritageday.com

“Home Cooking Italian Style”

2009-10-08T10:45:00.000-07:00

Annual Workshop Series at the
Waterford Historical Museum and Cultural Center
The “Home Cooking Italian Style” workshop series will offer lessons on how to make Italian treats as passed down through generations of a few Waterford Italian American families. You will also learn about their family traditions based around these special foods.

Italian Wine - Wednesday, October 7th and Thursday, November 12th
(Participants should plan to attend both dates for the wine workshop.)
Pasta - Thursday, October 22nd
Italian Cookies - Thursday, November 5th
Italian Cheese - Monday, November 16th

Each workshop will begin at 6:30p.m. at the Waterford Museum.
For forms and directions, please check our website www.waterfordmuseum.com
or call-518-238-0809

Attention French-Canadian Americans

2009-10-08T10:44:00.001-07:00

Attention French-Canadian Americans
After a short hiatus during the summer, we are conducting interviews once again and we need your help. The great success of the Italian exhibit has stirred the emotions and memories of many Waterford residents and now it is time for the French-Canadians to tell their stories. We want to know about everyday life as well as your adventures!
We are looking for people who are French-Canadian who either lived in Northside or had ancestors who did. If you would like to help preserve an important part of Waterford’s history and be interviewed or you know someone who might like to be interviewed, please let us know. Contact Aine Leader at dvc@waterfordmuseum.com or at 238-0809.

Annual Membership Meeting

2009-10-08T10:43:00.000-07:00

Annual Membership Meeting

Wednesday, October 21st

The Annual Membership Meeting will take place on Wednesday, October 21st at 7pm. Members will have the chance to cast their vote for members of the Board of Trustees who serve one year terms. After the brief meeting we will have Aine Leader give an encore presentation of her talk “Making Waterford Our Home: Oral Histories and Waterford’s Italian Community.” She gave this presentation in August and numerous people who were unable to attend have expressed interest in seeing it , so we have asked her to do it again at the meeting. The multimedia presentation about our immigrant oral history project was highly praised in August and we are looking forward to seeing it again.

Silpada Designs Jewelry Raffle

2009-10-08T10:40:00.000-07:00

As a result of the success of our Silpada Jewelry open house, we have three items to raffle off to support the Museum’s general operating expenses:

A: Sterling silver link necklace with matching earrings;

B: Turquoise and sterling silver necklace with matching earrings;

C: Copper coin pearl, smoky quartz, and sterling silver necklace;

All, from Silpada Designs.

Raffle tickets cost $3 a piece or $10 for 6. You select which item you would like to be in the drawing for. Tickets are available online, at the Museum, from a Board member or at one of our programs. The drawing will be held December 4th at our annual Wine and Cheese Holiday Open House. Pictures of the jewelry can be found on our website or by checking out the

Silpada website www.mysilpada.com/rusty.kindlon

Making Waterford Our Home: Italians in Waterford

2009-10-08T08:45:00.001-07:00

Today we did a review....