
October is New York State History Month!
New York State’s history community is dynamic and diverse. In October, historians, scholars, curators, preservationists, librarians, archivists, genealogists, re-enactors, and educators will work together to promote the education and appreciation of New York State’s rich and complex history.
Please join us for special in-person programming at the New York State Museum for October 2023 History Month and explore additional resources below.
Programs & Exhibitions at the NYSM
Enjoy a month of programming highlighting the upcoming 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. Explore the diverse perspectives of those impacted by the revolution and the ongoing work to secure the freedoms for all Americans that were promised by the revolution but not delivered.
The Fidelity Medal: Treason at West Point
September 29, 2023 to December 31, 2023
WEST CORRIDOR
This exhibition delves into Major General Benedict Arnold’s betrayal of West Point during the American Revolution and British Major John André’s involvement in Arnold’s plot. View important historical artifacts and information related to this aspect of the American Revolutionary War, including the rare Fidelity Medallion, three links from the Great Chain constructed across the Hudson River to prevent British ships from sailing north from New York City, and images of the papers found on André when he was captured.
Jack Kelly Presents: God Save Benedict Arnold: The True Story of America’s Most Hated Man
Dr. Christopher Minty Presents: Unfriendly to Liberty: Loyalist Networks and the Coming of the American Revolution in New York
Panel Discussion: The Continuing Revolution for All New Yorkers
Dr. Scott Manning Stevens Presents: Paths Forward: Native America and Museums
Statewide Programs & Resources
Path Through History
Discover how I Love NY's Path Through History can guide you to over 500 historical attractions and sites across New York!
https://iloveny.com/pth-nyshistorymonth
Be sure to select “NYS History Month” as an event category.

Statewide Events, Programs, and More!
Visit the Office of State History events page for a comprehensive list of statewide events, lectures, site visits, and more related to New York State History Month!
http://www.nysm.nysed.gov/research-collections/state-history/events
Resources for Educators
Earn CTLE in New York History
The NYSM currently offers several CTLE programs with an emphasis on events and artifacts central to the history of New York State.
Educator Guides to NYSM Exhibitions & Programs
October is also American Archives Month!
New York is home to thousands of repositories, including the New York State Archives, that preserve and make accessible the primary source materials that help tell the history of our great state.
Visit the New York Archives Partnership Trust "Archives Month Resource Page" to learn more!
History Month Promotion Kit (PDF)
Download information on how to promote History Month events in your community.
New York State 250th Commemoration Field Guide
Planning for the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of this nation is underway. Explore themes and suggestions for how your community or organization can recognize the American Revolution commemorative era from 2025 through 2033.
A New York Minute in History
Listen in to discover the unique tales of New Yorkers throughout American history.
Discover the New York History Journal!
Learn how to subscribe to the journal, purchase past issues, or submit articles.
Compete in Capital Region History Day!
It's never too soon to learn how to participate in this "historic" competition held annually in March.
Office of State History
Your year-round resource for NY's history-related news, events, and resources.
Featured Video
The American Origin Myth: Remembering the American Revolution with Historian Michael D. Hattem
NYSM History Video Library
-
October 29, 2023Social History
-
October 22, 2023Social History
-
October 15, 2023Political History
-
October 1, 2023Political History
-
May 30, 2023Cultural History
-
April 6, 2023Social History
-
March 8, 2023Social History
-
November 17, 2022Political History