Dive into Albany's rich history with Dr. Michael Lucas, curator of Historical Archaeology, as he uncovers the layers of our past in this gallery talk. Explore the groundbreaking discoveries beneath Albany's streets—from the remnants of Fort Orange, New Netherland's first permanent Dutch settlement, to the remains of the 18th-century Quackenbush-Douw rum distillery. Gain unique insights into the city's evolution through archaeological finds that illuminate daily life, trade, and the growth of one of North America's oldest European cities. This presentation will provide a glimpse into the artifacts and stories that shape Albany's legacy.

Visitors should meet in the Museum Lobby prior to the start of the tour.

Did you know that hundreds of earthquakes have occurred—and continue to occur—in and around New York? Discover the fascinating world of earthquakes and ancient geology with Dr. Charles Ver Straeten, Curator of Sedimentary Rocks at the New York State Museum. 

Join us at the Earthquake Center exhibit (across from Discovery Place) to engage with Dr. Ver Straeten, ask your burning questions, and explore how geological research helps us better understand Earth's history. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn from an expert in the field! 

Join us for a captivating film screening of Back to Las Villas, followed by an insightful panel discussion featuring Ismael “Ish” Martinez, author of Las Villas of Plattekill and Ulster County, and Jimmy Castro, the film’s director and Founder/CEO of Ritmo Caribe Promotions. Moderated by New York State Historian Devin Lander, the discussion will delve into the rich cultural legacy of these once-bustling resorts, their impact on Latin music, and their role in shaping Latino community life outside of New York City. Don’t miss this chance to learn about how these retreats became a vital cultural and recreational hub for Spanish-speaking communities and delve into their lasting impact on New York’s heritage.  

Join us on October 16th for National Fossil Day as State Paleontologist and Curator of Invertebrate Paleontology Dr. Lisa Amati presents "New York’s Titanic Traces," spotlighting the impressive Climachtichnites trace fossils. Discover the story behind these colossal tracks. Dive into the world of trace fossils and learn where in New York’s fossil record these extraordinary imprints are preserved.

Dive into the world of fish with NYSM Curator of Ichthyology Dr. Jeremy Wright. Join us near Discovery Place to engage with Dr. Wright, ask your burning questions, and explore the evolution and ecological interactions of fishes. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn from an expert in the field!

Celebrate New Netherland Day with Chelsea Teale of the New Netherland Research Center. Join us for a lunchtime lecture focused on the 1685 journal of Kiliaen Van Rensselaer. This diary, kept as van Rensselaer prepared to become lord of the manor of Rensselaerswijck, includes practical details such as shopping lists, financial accounts, and notes from his journey from the Netherlands to New York. It provides insight into the priorities of Van Rensselaer, who died just two years after arriving and who remains an ambiguous character in the history of colonial New York.  

Join us for an enlightening lecture with author Darren Bonaparte on Colonel Louis Cook, a significant figure in the American Revolution. Known by his Mohawk name, Akiatonharónkwen, Cook defied alliances and played a crucial role in the Continental Army, navigating complex relationships with both British and American forces. This lecture will explore his life, his rivalry with Joseph Brant, and his lasting impact on New York State. Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into the story of a man who shaped history through his extraordinary journey.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with Bronte Roman at the New York State Museum. Experience Bronte’s musical fusion of Latin-Pop and Latin-Traditional Hits in a performance that showcases her vibrant energy and unique vocal style. Don’t miss this chance to experience Bronte’s exceptional talent and passion live! 

This concert is co-sponsored by The Music Performance Trust Fund and The Albany Musicians Association, Local 14 of the American Federation of Musicians, a union of dedicated professional musicians covering every genre of music. Its members can be seen playing in concerts, clubs, weddings, parades, musicals, and symphony orchestras, both locally and beyond.
 

In choosing their wedding clothes, brides and grooms are influenced by fashion, economics, technology, religion, geography, celebrity, personal taste, and their role in society. This was as much the case in the past as it is today. 

Wedding clothing holds memories, and pieces—dresses, shoes, suits, and headwear—are often preserved and passed to subsequent generations. A couple’s choices reveal information about both the individuals who wore them and those who made them. Some garments, like those exhibited here from the 1910s to 1940s, find their way to museum collections. Unveil these stories with clothing expert, Connie Frisbee Houde, as she highlights pieces from the exhibit, Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s. 
 

Join us for a captivating exploration of contemporary Indigenous art featuring works from one representative artist of each Haudenosaunee Nation, Shinnecock Nation, and the Stockbridge-Munsee Mohican Band of Mohican Indians. This event invites you to get acquainted with the talented Indigenous artists who are shaping the cultural landscape of New York. Through a curated selection of pieces from the New York State Museum’s Indigenous Art Collection, visitors will discover diverse subject matter, innovative mediums, and unique styles that are influential in today's contemporary Indigenous art scene. Engage in meaningful conversations about the significance of these artworks and the stories behind them and gain a deeper appreciation for the rich artistic heritage of Indigenous communities in New York. 

Perry Ground (Turtle Clan, Onondaga) shares Stories from the People of the Longhouse. This storytelling presentation is filled with traditional Haudenosaunee legends that have been told for hundreds of years. These stories teach about the beliefs, customs, and history of the Haudenosaunee people and continue to be an important part of Haudenosaunee culture. 

Join us at the New York State Museum for a fascinating lecture celebrating the 50th anniversary of Lucy’s discovery. Renowned geochronologist Dr. Jim Aronson will discuss an unforgettable journey to Hadar, Ethiopia, where the iconic fossil was unearthed in 1974. Experience firsthand accounts of the exploration as Dr. Aronson shares how he utilized comparative sedimentology to reconstruct Lucy’s ancient environment—a lush, diverse ecosystem that contrasts sharply with today’s arid Afar Triangle. You’ll hear about his remarkable findings on the “First Family,” a group of 13 hominins, and gain insights into how they lived and died 3.22 million years ago. This engaging talk promises insights into our evolutionary history and a celebration of a milestone that shaped our understanding of human ancestry. Come be part of this exciting exploration into the past!

Join us for a hands-on workshop led by Bernadette Scott, Seneca, Deer Clan residing on the Cattaraugus Territory, NY. In this engaging session, participants of all ages will learn the art of making traditional cornhusk dolls. Discover the cultural significance behind this timeless craft and connect with history through creativity. Bring your family and friends to explore the beauty of cornhusk creations and leave with your very own handcrafted doll. Don’t miss this unique opportunity for cultural learning and artistic expression! 

Join us as we celebrate the enduring legacy of PBS’s beloved series, Reading Rainbow! The festivities will kick off with a special story time hour featuring readings from classic Reading Rainbow books, followed by related crafts that ignite creativity and a love for reading.

This will be followed by a screening of the inspiring documentary Butterfly in the Sky, which captures the magic and impact of this revolutionary reading movement.

This event promises a nostalgic journey through the pages of Reading Rainbow’s history and a chance to celebrate the power of reading. Join us for a day of inspiration, nostalgia, and engaging conversation.
 

11 am - 12 pm
Stories and Crafts

12 - 1:30 pm 
Film Screening

Join us in Bird Hall for a delightful bird-themed story time with State Librarian Lauren Moore. This engaging program will feature stories, songs, and games, all inspired by our feathered friends. Bring your little birdwatchers for a morning filled with laughter, learning, and a love for reading!

Join us for a gallery tour of Margery Ryerson: Art is Contagious, led by Dr. Jennifer Lemak, Chief Curator of History, and Karen Quinn, Senior Historian/Curator of Art and Culture. This exhibition celebrates the life and work of this lesser known, yet profoundly impactful painter and printmaker. Spanning over seven decades, Ryerson's career was marked by her dedication to capturing the essence of childhood, particularly through her powerful depictions of children in settlement houses where she taught.

This exhibition showcases a diverse range of Ryerson's subjects, including captivating landscapes, vibrant cityscapes, enchanting still-lifes, and dynamic portrayals of musicians and dancers. Beyond her visual art, Ryerson was a prolific writer and illustrator—contributing articles, poetry, and artwork for books, greeting cards, and calendars. Discover how her multifaceted talents have left a lasting legacy in the world of art.
 

Join us for a gallery tour of Margery Ryerson: Art is Contagious, led by Dr. Jennifer Lemak, Chief Curator of History, and Karen Quinn, Senior Historian/Curator of Art and Culture. This exhibition celebrates the life and work of this lesser known, yet profoundly impactful painter and printmaker. Spanning over seven decades, Ryerson's career was marked by her dedication to capturing the essence of childhood, particularly through her powerful depictions of children in settlement houses where she taught.

This exhibition showcases a diverse range of Ryerson's subjects, including captivating landscapes, vibrant cityscapes, enchanting still-lifes, and dynamic portrayals of musicians and dancers. Beyond her visual art, Ryerson was a prolific writer and illustrator—contributing articles, poetry, and artwork for books, greeting cards, and calendars. Discover how her multifaceted talents have left a lasting legacy in the world of art.
 

Dive into the deep past with Dr. Ed Landing, State Paleontologist Emeritus, as he unveils the fascinating story of Stark’s Knob—a one-of-a-kind geologic treasure in Saratoga County. Deeded to the Museum in 1916, this unique volcanic formation dates back 460 million years to a time when molten rock surged through the ocean floor, shaping the landscape of eastern North America.

Discover how this remarkable site, featured as a national “Geoheritage” site in GSA Today, offers clues to Earth’s dynamic history and learn about Stark’s Knob’s role as the first example of “petit volcanism” on a subducting plate. Whether you're a science enthusiast or curious explorer, this lecture will ignite your imagination and deepen your appreciation for the natural wonders beneath our feet!
 

Get ready for a magical journey at the New York State Museum on Sunday, December 8th! Join us for a day filled with train-themed fun and holiday cheer. Explore fascinating railroad-themed displays from the New York State Library's collections, including highlights from the Jack Shufelt Collection featuring timetables, union agreements, original notes, photographs, maps, and more. Let your creativity shine with a festive craft activity, and don’t miss a special screening of The Polar Express in the Huxley Theater.

11 am - 1pm
NYSL Collections & Crafts

1 - 3pm
Film Screening: The Polar Express

Join storyteller April Armstrong for a vibrant celebration of Kwanzaa! Sing, clap, and immerse yourself in uplifting folktales from African, Caribbean, and African American traditions. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate community and culture through the magic of stories and music!

Join us for a fascinating day at the New York State Museum with Elliott & Schlemowitz, renowned magic lanternists! Experience history brought to life with their performances using original late-Victorian and Edwardian era magic lantern glass slides and projectors. Discover the captivating charm of this 17th-century invention, which transformed storytelling into an enlivened visual experience. Performances will take place several times during the day, with shorter demonstrations in between.

Children’s slide sets will include “The Educated Cats” and “The Precocious Pigs,” as well as “Belle Belton and her “Bicycle Adventure,” animated moving slides showing circus performers, astronomy lessons, and comic visual gags. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see the artistry of magic lantern projections and learn about its rich history.

Join us for the opening of Margery Ryerson: Art is Contagious, an inspiring exhibition celebrating the life and work of this lesser known, yet profoundly impactful painter and printmaker. Spanning over seven decades, Ryerson's career was marked by her dedication to capturing the essence of childhood, particularly through her powerful depictions of children in settlement houses where she taught.

This exhibition showcases a diverse range of Ryerson's subjects, including captivating landscapes, vibrant cityscapes, enchanting still-lifes, and dynamic portrayals of musicians and dancers. Beyond her visual art, Ryerson was a prolific writer and illustrator—contributing articles, poetry, and artwork for books, greeting cards, and calendars.

Join us for an afternoon of art, conversation, and inspiration as we honor Ryerson's legacy and her tireless commitment to the arts. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore her remarkable contributions and engage with fellow art enthusiasts!

Explore the tools and techniques of ice harvesting with Monica Gray, Director of Archival Services at the New York State Archives. Learn how ice was once harvested from lakes and rivers during the winter months, see historical photos, and try out real ice tongs. 

Join Dr. Denise Mayer, Curator of Malacology at the New York State Museum and Director of the Museum’s Field Research Laboratory for a fascinating journey into the world of freshwater mussels. Dr. Mayer will share Museum/New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's recent survey efforts in the uppermost reaches of the Hudson River, from the headwaters at Lake Henderson to Queensbury. Discover the hidden ecosystems of these rarely explored sections of the river through footage from her fieldwork. Learn about the important role mussels play in keeping our waterways healthy and what we’ve uncovered about their populations in both the Adirondacks and downstream sections of the Hudson River. Bring your curiosity and your questions!

Grab a drink and take a break from winter to join Dr. Denise Mayer for a fun and interactive dive into the fascinating world of freshwater mussels and the vital role they play in our ecosystems. This engaging talk will take you on a journey through the uppermost reaches of the Hudson River in the Adirondack Park—from the headwaters at Lake Henderson to Queensbury. Dr. Mayer will share captivating footage from recent surveys, offering a glimpse of these rarely seen sections of the river. She’ll also summarize discoveries from downstream Hudson sections, revealing the hidden life of mussels that keeps our waterways thriving. Science has never been this much fun—or this refreshing! 

This fun, interactive program is free. Food and drink are not included. 

The Hollow Bar + Kitchen is located at 79 North Pearl Street, Albany, NY 12207.
www.thehollowalbany.com

Get an insider’s look at New York’s feathered residents with NYSM Ornithologist and Curator of Birds and Mammals, Dr. Jeremy Kirchman! Join Dr. Kirchman for an engaging guided tour of the Birds of New York exhibition, featuring fascinating insights into the state’s diverse bird species and their habitats. Don’t miss this opportunity to see special specimens, ask your burning bird questions, and connect with an expert in the field!

On the eve of International Holocaust Remembrance Day, discover the extraordinary history of Fort Ontario, the only shelter in the United States established by the federal government to protect Holocaust refugees during World War II.
 
This compelling program features Paul Lear, retired Site Manager of Fort Ontario, and Ann Allen, author of Holocaust Refugees in Oswego: From Nazi Europe to Lake Ontario. Together, they will shed light on the lives of the 982 mostly-Jewish refugees who found temporary sanctuary behind the barbed wire of Fort Ontario in Oswego, New York. Moderated by Aaron Noble, Senior Historian and Curator of Political and Military History at the New York State Museum, this lecture will delve into the impact this remarkable refuge had on both its residents and the local community.
 
Following the lecture, we invite attendees to visit the Museum’s exhibit, Holocaust to Haven, which tells the powerful story of the Fort Ontario Emergency Refugee Shelter and its lasting legacy. This exhibit features artifacts, including a section of the original fence, and highlights the courage and resilience of those who sought a safe haven in America.
 
Join us for an inspiring reflection on this unique chapter in Holocaust and American history, commemorating the lives and stories of those who sought refuge and the enduring lessons they left behind.
 

Join us for an engaging evening of history and beer at our inaugural "History and Hops" event at the Albany Outpost! Explore the transformative impact of the Erie Canal on New York’s history and beer culture as we gear up to celebrate the canal's 200th anniversary in 2025!

Highlights of the event will include: 

• Brad Utter, Senior Historian and Curator of Science and Technological History, will kick things off with a fascinating talk on the Erie Canal's role in revolutionizing transportation, commerce, and industry in New York State.
• Craig Gravina, New York Beer Scholar, will take the stage to reveal how the Erie Canal shaped beer production, distribution, and brewing innovation across the state.

Raise a glass to the Erie Canal and discover how this iconic waterway fueled New York’s beer scene!

This fun, interactive program is free to attend. Food and drink are not included but are available for individual purchase at the venue.

Location:
Common Roots Albany Outpost
19 Quackenbush Square
Albany, NY 12207
https://commonrootsbrewing.com/ 

Groundhog Day, with its quirky tradition of predicting six more weeks of winter, has become an iconic part of American culture. Join us at the New York State Museum for a fun and interactive exploration of Grundsaudaag—the original German name for what we know today as Groundhog Day.

In this family-friendly event, we’ll dive into the fascinating history of how German-speaking communities brought their winter traditions to the United States, blending European customs with their new American surroundings. Discover how the ancient German celebration of Candlemas Day evolved into the modern-day tradition of predicting spring’s arrival. It’s a chance to celebrate not only the weather, but the rich cultural exchange that shaped our country’s unique traditions.

So, whether you're predicting spring or bracing for more winter, come join us in celebrating Grundsaudaag—a Germanic twist on an American tradition that’s sure to warm your heart (even if the groundhog sees his shadow)!

Join us for a lively evening of history and sports at the Common Roots Albany Outpost! Stephen Loughman, Sports Curator at the New York State Museum, will guide you through a transformative decade in New York's sports history. From the creation of the Mets, Jets, Islanders, Nets, and Buffalo Braves to the rise of the Bills and Sabres, discover how the expansion era of professional sports forever reshaped the state's sports culture. Don’t miss out on this fun, interactive discussion!

This fun, interactive program is free to attend. Food and drink are not included but are available for individual purchase at the venue.

Location:
Common Roots Albany Outpost
19 Quackenbush Square
Albany, NY 12207
https://commonrootsbrewing.com/

**This program was originally scheduled for Thursday, February 6.**

Come and enjoy a free screening of WMHT's original documentary film North to New York: The Great Migration in NY's Capital Region. Immerse yourself in the journey of individuals traveling from the South to New York's Capital Region during the Great Migration.

The screening will be followed by a discussion featuring:

• Stephanie Woodard - President, Rapp Road Historical Association
• Willie White - Founder, AVillage Inc.
• Clarence Samuel Johnson - Son of Reverend John "Jack" Johnson
• Jennifer Lemak, PhD - NYSM Chief Curator of History 

Seating may be limited. Please arrive early.
Doors open at 2:30 p.m. We hope to see you there!

Join the New York State Library for a fun-filled story time! We’ll explore the frosty world of winter sports like hockey and ice skating, with stories that will spark imaginations and encourage little ones to dream big on the ice.

Join Dr. James C. Lendemer, Curator of Botany at the New York State Museum, as he prepares rare botanical specimens for our herbarium—live and on display! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn about plant preservation and the fascinating world of botany up close.

Perry Ground (Turtle Clan, Onondaga) shares Stories from the People of the Longhouse. This storytelling presentation is filled with traditional Haudenosaunee legends that have been told for hundreds of years. These stories teach about the beliefs, customs, and history of the Haudenosaunee people and continue to be an important part of Haudenosaunee culture. 

In choosing their wedding clothes, brides and grooms are influenced by fashion, economics, technology, religion, geography, celebrity, personal taste, and their role in society. This was as much the case in the past as it is today. 

Wedding clothing holds memories, and pieces—dresses, shoes, suits, and headwear—are often preserved and passed to subsequent generations. A couple’s choices reveal information about both the individuals who wore them and those who made them. Some garments, like those exhibited here from the 1910s to 1940s, find their way to museum collections. Unveil these stories with clothing expert, Connie Frisbee Houde, as she highlights pieces from the exhibit, Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s. 
 

In choosing their wedding clothes, brides and grooms are influenced by fashion, economics, technology, religion, geography, celebrity, personal taste, and their role in society. This was as much the case in the past as it is today. 

Wedding clothing holds memories, and pieces—dresses, shoes, suits, and headwear—are often preserved and passed to subsequent generations. A couple’s choices reveal information about both the individuals who wore them and those who made them. Some garments, like those exhibited here from the 1910s to 1940s, find their way to museum collections. Unveil these stories with clothing expert, Connie Frisbee Houde, as she highlights pieces from the exhibit, Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s. 
 

Join Dr. Joseph Gonzalez, Curator of Mineralogy at the New York State Museum, for a special opportunity to ask an expert all about rocks, minerals, and Earth’s ancient history! Whether you're curious about how mountains form, how minerals are created, or what secrets rocks can reveal, Dr. Gonzalez will be on hand to answer your questions and share his expertise. Bring your curiosity and learn firsthand from a scientist who studies the deep history of our planet!

Ever wonder how we got here? Join Dr. Jeremy J. Kirchman, Curator of Birds and Mammals at the New York State Museum, for an evening of science at The Hollow Bar + Kitchen. In celebration of Darwin’s birthday, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of evolution—no lab coat required!

Dr. Kirchman will take us on a tour of scientific discovery from the radical, brave thinking of Charles Darwin to the current era of genomics research that is revealing the ways that humans have been both the target of natural selection and an agent of selection on other species. Whether you're a science enthusiast or just looking for something new and exciting to learn over a drink, this is the place to be. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and your thirst for knowledge (and maybe a pint too)! Let's toast to Darwin and the amazing journey of life.

This fun, interactive program is free to attend. Food and drink are not included but are available for individual purchase at the venue.

Location:
The Hollow Bar + Kitchen
79 North Pearl Street
Albany, NY 12207
www.thehollowalbany.com

Discover the inspiring story of William Still, one of the most important heroes of the Underground Railroad. The documentary blends history, characters, and evocative reenactments with sometimes shocking, often touching, accounts from the day. The exhilarating and deeply compelling story comes to life in this WNED PBS production.

Join us for a special screening of WNED’s The Niagara Movement: The Early Battle for Civil Rights which explores the Black elite and intellectual society at the turn of the 20th century, a class rarely presented. It examines the heated debate and conflict between W.E.B DuBois and William Monroe Trotter with Booker T. Washington on how to best uplift the race and secure equality for their community.

Join Dr. Andrew Kozlowski, Curator of Quaternary Landscape Materials, for a 30-minute guided tour of Ice Ages: How Ice Shaped the Land and the Life in New York. This exhibit takes you on a journey through New York’s geological history, from the massive glaciers that sculpted the landscape to the giant mammals like mastodons and woolly mammoths that roamed the land 15,000 years ago.

Dr. Kozlowski, an expert in Pleistocene geology, will share insights from his research on glacial deposits and landforms, offering a deeper understanding of how the Ice Ages shaped the state’s present-day topography and ecosystems. Don’t miss the chance to see rare Ice Age fossils from the museum's collection and learn about the forces that transformed New York’s landscape. 

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a lively performance by Toss the Feathers, a band known for traditional Irish music and songs. Experience the magic of traditional jigs, reels, and ballads, bringing the heart of Ireland to the Museum. Between songs, the band will share fascinating stories about the history of Irish music and the Irish community in the Albany area, offering insight into how these cultural traditions have shaped the local landscape. It’s an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in Irish heritage and enjoy the festive spirit of the season! 

Join us for an insightful and educational session with Dr. Gwendolyn Saul, the New York State Museum's Curator of Cultural Anthropology, as she explores the importance of Black Ash trees in Haudenosaunee basketry. Black Ash splints are the preferred material for creating these intricate and meaningful baskets, a craft deeply rooted in tradition. 

Dr. Saul will discuss the art of Haudenosaunee basket making and highlight current efforts to protect Black Ash trees from the invasive Emerald Ash Borer beetles, which threaten the survival of this vital resource. As a special bonus, attendees will have the unique opportunity to view a new art acquisition that ties directly to this important cultural and environmental topic. 

Don't miss this chance to learn about the intersection of art, culture, and conservation in an engaging and meaningful way! 

Join us for a thought-provoking panel discussion exploring sustainable clay practices and the importance of building respectful, responsible relationships with the land. "Clay from the Ground: Collaborations with the Land" brings together a diverse group of artists and environmental advocates: Margaret Boozer, Connor Czora, RL Martens, and Shino Tanikawa. Together, they will share insights on sourcing, working with, and honoring the earth’s materials in the context of ceramics. Through their collective experience, they will discuss how artists can contribute to the environmental conversation and build a collective agreement for collaborations that are mindful of both tradition and ecological responsibility. 

This lecture will offer a unique opportunity to delve into the intersections of art and sustainability, and to reflect on how we as a community can be better stewards of the land we work with. 

This panel is presented in conjunction with Little Brown Jug, on view through March 30, 2025. This juried exhibition, presented in collaboration with The Arts Center of the Capital Region and Broken Mold Pottery, celebrates the rich history of Albany slip glaze through stunning contemporary pottery inspired by 19th-century stoneware. 

Join us for a special lunchtime lecture as we celebrate Women’s History Month. This program will feature short presentations from the New York State Library, New York State Archives, and New York State Museum highlighting significant figures, accomplishments, and resources from our collections, followed by a brief Q&A session. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the contributions women have made throughout history. Bring your lunch and enjoy a thought-provoking presentation. 

Join us for a special screening of WCNY's documentary Floating Ideas: How the Erie Canal Helped Shape America, as we examine the spread of ideas along the Erie Canal, with an emphasis on women’s rights, suffrage, and the quest for social justice. 

Join us for The Mushroom Letters, a dramatic reading of the correspondence between Mary Elizabeth Banning, a self-taught mycologist, and Charles H. Peck, a leading mycologist at the New York State Museum. Banning, who dedicated her life to studying fungi, created stunning illustrations and described new species, despite living in relative obscurity and poverty. Her unpublished manuscript, The Fungi of Maryland, filled with 175 exquisite watercolors, remained hidden for nearly a century before being rediscovered in the 1980s. This event brings to life the letters that captured her passionate pursuit of mycology and her connection with Peck, offering a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of a woman working in a male-dominated field. 

Banning’s correspondence reveals the depth of her fascination with fungi. At a time when women were often excluded from formal scientific study, Banning and other self-taught women mycologists contributed significantly to the field, challenging societal norms. Through this reading, we celebrate Banning’s contributions to mycology, her artistry, and the legacy of her work, which continues to influence the scientific world today.  

Join Robert W. Snyder, Official Manhattan Borough Historian, for an insightful lecture on his new book, When the City Stopped: Stories from New York's Essential Workers. In this powerful collection of personal accounts, Snyder brings to light the experiences of New Yorkers who worked on the frontlines during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through poems, first-person narratives, and interviews, Snyder illuminates the stories of healthcare workers, transit staff, and community activists who faced the uncertainties of the virus head-on.

Join us for a special screening of WNED's documentary, Discovering New York Suffrage Stories. In New York State, the epicenter for reform in the mid 1800’s, the suffrage movement’s success depended on many women, but today, several of their stories are absent from history. Meet a few of the diverse suffragists in this New York Emmy-nominated documentary who tirelessly navigated issues of religious intolerance, sexism, politics, and racism as they fought for the vote and for women’s equality.

Join us for a special screening of WCNY's documentary Syracuse Challenger Baseball: The Road to Williamsport. Led by Dom Cambareri, Syracuse Challenger Baseball—the oldest and largest team in Little League Baseball's special needs division—embarks on an unforgettable, first-ever trip to the Little League World Series. Follow the team's diverse personalities as they share a once-in-a-lifetime experience playing where Little League Baseball was born.