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.
In When the City Stopped, Snyder not only captures the fear and isolation of the moment but also the solidarity that helped sustain the City during its darkest days. Through these intimate stories, Snyder fosters understanding and empathy between those who faced the pandemic's dangers directly and those who remained in relative safety. This lecture offers a powerful and timely reflection on New York City’s resilience, documenting an unforgettable chapter in the City's history for future generations.
Special Exhibit Display
Throughout this program, participants can view a special display of Covid-related collections from the NYS Museum, Library, and Archives .
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.
Join Dr. Patricia Kaishian, Curator of Mycology at the New York State Museum, for an immersive gallery tour of Outcasts: Mary Banning’s World of Mushrooms. This exhibition highlights the fascinating life and work of Mary Elizabeth Banning, one of the first American mycologists, who defied the social and scientific barriers of her time to make significant contributions to the study of fungi.
As Dr. Kaishian walks you through the exhibit, you'll discover Banning’s extraordinary illustrations and letters, her pioneering research on mushrooms, and the historical context in which she worked. Learn how fungi—often seen as "outcasts" in the natural world—were embraced by outcast scientists like Banning, who defied expectations to make lasting contributions to science. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the often-overlooked world of fungi and celebrate the legacy of a remarkable woman scientist.
Join us for an engaging evening of history, science, and the story of women in mycology at our next History & Hops event at the Albany Outpost! Delve into the life of Mary Elizabeth Banning, a pioneering 19th-century mycologist, and explore how the field of fungi became a rare space for women in science during a time when their contributions were often overlooked.
Ashley Hopkins-Benton, Senior Historian and Curator of Social History, will kick off the evening with an engaging discussion about the challenges women faced in the 19th century and the fight for women’s rights during Mary Banning's lifetime. Ashley will give historical context to the barriers women overcame to pursue careers in science, despite being marginalized by institutions.
Dr. Patricia Kaishian, Curator of Mycology, will follow with a look into the life and work of Mary Banning, the "outcast" scientist whose contributions to mycology were dismissed during her lifetime. Patty will highlight Banning’s incredible achievements and will discuss how Banning’s work, while overlooked in her time, now serves as inspiration to women in the sciences.
Following the presentations, we’ll open the floor for a Q&A session—so bring your questions and join us for a lively conversation!
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/
Join Dr. Chuck Ver Straeten, Curator of Sedimentary Rocks, for a hands-on exploration of sedimentary rocks and learn how to "read" their history. Discover how the features visible in these rocks reveal clues about past environments, from ancient seas to volcanic landscapes. Whether you're a budding geologist or just curious about the natural world, this interactive session will help you understand the fascinating processes behind rock formation and the stories they tell about millions of years of Earth's history. Ideal for all ages!
Join us for the gallery opening of Outcasts: Mary Banning’s World of Mushrooms, an exhibition that showcases 28 of Banning's exquisite watercolors and original descriptions from her unpublished manuscript The Fungi of Maryland. These beautiful works, once lost to history, have been brought back to life in this one-of-a-kind exhibit.
Experience a dramatic reading of The Mushroom Letters by former New York State Museum Curator of Mycology, Dr. John Haines, animating Banning’s passionate pursuit of mycology and the challenges she overcame.
Enjoy food and drinks available for purchase from Collar City Mushrooms and Brooklyn Cider House and discover a world of mushrooms like never before!
Free Event Registration
This family-friendly event is free, however registration is highly recommended.
» REGISTER HERE
Schedule of Events
6:00 - 6:30 PM
Gallery Opening & Welcome
Explore the Outcasts exhibit. Food and drinks are available for purchase from Collar City Mushrooms and Brooklyn Cider House. Opening remarks from Dr. Patricia Ononiwu Kaishian, Curator of Mycology at the New York State Museum.
6:30 - 7:15 PM
The Mushroom Letters: Dramatic Reading
Former NYSM Curator of Mycology, Dr. John Haines, presents a dramatic reading of the correspondence between Mary Elizabeth Banning and Charles H. Peck.
7:15 - 9:00 PM
Gallery Exploration & Socializing
Continue to explore the exhibit and engage with fellow guests. Food and drink available for purchase while supplies last.
This event is made possible in partnership with The New York Mycological Society.
Behind the Scenes of Outcasts: Mary Banning's World of Mushrooms
Mary Elizabeth Banning (1822–1903) was one of the first American mycologists, specialists in the study of fungi. She was a talented, self-taught scientist who studied mushrooms in Maryland in the mid-1800s. Banning was also one of the first women to describe new species of fungi to science.
Join NYSM Curator of Mycolory Dr. Patricia Kaishian as she discusses Banning's life, her research and connection to the New York State Museum, and her invaluable contributions to the study of mushrooms.
Behind the Scenes of Outcasts: Mary Banning's World of Mushrooms
Mary Elizabeth Banning (1822–1903) was one of the first American mycologists, specialists in the study of fungi. She was a talented, self-taught scientist who studied mushrooms in Maryland in the mid-1800s. Banning was also one of the first women to describe new species of fungi to science.
Join NYSM Curator of Mycolory Dr. Patricia Kaishian as she discusses Banning's life, her research and connection to the New York State Museum, and her invaluable contributions to the study of mushrooms.
Join us for a special screening of A Castle in Every Heart, a captivating documentary by Mountain Lake PBS, as we journey back in time to meet Adirondack legend and theme park pioneer, Arto Monaco. Known for his creativity and vision, Monaco designed some of America’s earliest theme parks, including beloved attractions like The Land of Makebelieve and Santa’s Workshop.
This film offers an intimate look into Monaco’s life and work, showcasing his unique ability to blend storytelling, artistry, and a deep love for entertaining children and adults alike. Known as a gifted storyteller and a true original, Monaco’s legacy continues to inspire generations.
Don't miss this opportunity to explore the fascinating world of Arto Monaco and discover how he brought magic and joy to the Adirondacks.
Join us for a special day of fungi fun with author Chris Baker as she reads aloud from her delightful picture book On a Mushroom Day! This enchanting book takes young readers on a magical walk through the forest, learning all about the beauty and wonder of mushrooms. After the read-aloud, explore our new exhibit Outcasts: Mary Banning’s Mushrooms with Dr. Patricia Kaishian, Curator of Mycology at the New York State Museum, and discover the fascinating world of fungi. Learn about Mary Elizabeth Banning’s pioneering work and see her stunning illustrations and descriptions of mushrooms.
The fun doesn’t stop there! After the gallery exploration, enjoy coloring sheets and a craft activity where kids can create their own mushroom masterpieces. This event is perfect for families, nature lovers, and budding mushroom enthusiasts. Come for a day of adventure, art, and discovery!
On a Mushroom Day, written by Chris Baker and illustrated by Alexandra Finkeldey, is a recipient of a 2025 River by Award from the John Burroughs Association.
Join WMHT for a special preview screening and discussion of NOVA Revolutionary War Weapons with New York State Museum Senior Historian Aaron Noble and Fort Ticonderoga Curator Matthew Keagle, PhD.
In 1775, a ragtag army of farmers and tradesmen defeated the most powerful army in the world to win American independence. What military technology did the American colonies use in their fight for freedom, and how did it help propel them to one of history’s most unlikely victories? Archeologists and historians uncover the real stories of innovation, skill, and strategy that determined the outcome of important battles. From the Brown Bess musket to the world’s first military submarine, get a closeup look at the powerful and sometimes ingenious weapons that helped win our independence.
Get inspired by Charles Clough's monumental painting Clufffalo: Art Omi during our tissue paper art project this April Break Week! Clough’s vibrant 9 x 16-foot masterpiece is on view in New York Hall, and now it’s your turn to create your own colorful work of art. Using tissue paper and your imagination, kids will explore Clough’s abstract style, bringing their own creations to life. Whether you're a budding artist or just love to craft, this hands-on activity will spark your creativity and offer a fun way to engage with contemporary art. Come make your mark and take home a unique masterpiece!
Join us at Common Roots Albany Outpost for an informal, engaging evening exploring the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution! Enjoy a drink while hearing from New York State Museum experts as they bring history to life. Dr. Michael Lucas, Curator of Historical Archaeology, will discuss the discovery of the World Trade Center Ship, a Revolutionary War-era vessel unearthed at Ground Zero. Aaron Noble, Senior Curator of Political and Military History, will highlight key objects from the Museum's collection, and Devin Lander, New York State Historian, will explore how the 250th commemoration connects the past to present-day events. It’s the perfect mix of history, conversation, and community!
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/
Join WMHT and Bring on the Spectrum (BOTS), for a special Autism Month celebration and interactive day of discovery at the New York State Museum! Explore our fascinating collections through hands-on activities, special exhibit connections, and engaging opportunities designed for children and families. Throughout the museum, visitors will find activities inspired by Carl the Collector, PBS KIDS’ groundbreaking series that celebrates the joy of collecting and the uniqueness of every individual.
Episodes of Carl the Collector will be playing in the Huxley Theater, where Carl, a curious and warm-hearted autistic raccoon, embarks on adventures, solving problems with his attention to detail and unique perspective. As you explore the museum, take part in activities that connect to the exhibits, bringing Carl’s world of collecting to life.
This event is a collaboration between the New York State Museum, WMHT, and BOTS, offering a welcoming, inclusive environment for visitors of all ages and abilities. It’s a chance to explore the museum’s diverse collections while celebrating differences, working together, and discovering something new. We can’t wait to see you there for this family-friendly day of fun, learning, and exploration!
Celebrate the season of renewal with a fun and easy spring-themed craft session for kids at the New York State Museum. This hands-on activity is perfect for children of all ages—no experience necessary! All materials will be provided, so just bring your creativity and a big smile!
Enjoy a day of hands-on learning at the New York State Museum on April 10 for Homeschool Day! Join scientists and educators for talks and activities about animal diversity and rich history in New York. Local community partners will be on hand to provide learning resources and contribute to understanding our local history.
Event Highlights
Gallery Tours:
- Tour Fire Engine Hall with Brad Utter
- Learn about the birds of New York and their habitats with Dr. Jeremy Kirchman
Open Classrooms:
- Learn about animal adaptations and do hands-on activities with the museum educators
Registration
Registration is encouraged and the first 40 individuals who register will receive reserved parking.
Please register here: https://forms.office.com/r/BZPbcY9Bbv
If you have any questions, call or email the Museum Group Registration Office:
(518) 474-5843
groupreg@nysed.gov
Community Partners:
- Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
- Albany County Historical Association
- WMHT Public Media
- New York State Library Youth Services
- Talking Book and Braille Library
- Archives Partnership Trust
Join us for a special screening of Bloom: The Toxic Threat to the Finger Lakes by WCNY PBS. This powerful documentary delves into the recent outbreaks of cyanobacteria, also known as toxic algae or harmful algal blooms, across the eleven Finger Lakes. Through a compelling exploration, Bloom examines the causes, impacts, and potential solutions to this growing environmental issue, which threatens drinking water, native wildlife, and the multi-billion-dollar tourism economy of Central New York. As research into this problem continues, Bloom takes you beneath the waves to uncover the environmental factors contributing to the disruption of this beloved region. Don’t miss this eye-opening documentary that brings vital awareness to the future of the Finger Lakes!
Join us for a special screening of Lumberjack Skypilot, a classic historical film that offers a nostalgic glimpse into the lives of lumberjacks in the Adirondacks and Tug Hill Plateau during the 1930s and 1940s. Filmed by Reverend Frank Reed, this captivating documentary captures the strength, resilience, and spirit of these hardworking men who shaped the region’s timber industry.
Join us for an opportunity to meet Devin Lander, New York’s 16th State Historian and Head of Museum Chartering. As the State Historian, Devin is dedicated to preserving and sharing New York's rich history. Stop by his table to learn about his role in shaping how we connect with and understand our past. As co-host of the award-winning podcast A New York Minute in History and co-editor of New York History, Devin brings history to life in exciting new ways. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just curious about the work of the State Historian, come have a conversation and discover how history is being made today!
Join us for a wild celebration of Archie, the tiny titan of history and the New York State Archives' very own Junior Archivist! Archie isn’t just any mascot—he’s a curious, document-loving beaver who digs into New York's fascinating history and shares its stories with everyone he meets. On his special day, we’re inviting YOU to celebrate with crafts, games, and plenty of birthday fun!
Bring your curiosity and creativity for hands-on activities, crafts, and even enjoy some birthday treats as we celebrate Archie’s big day! There will be plenty of surprises in store, so don’t miss out on this beaver-tastic event.
For kids of all ages—come ready to party with Archie and explore the wonders of New York’s past! Let’s make it a birthday to remember with fun, friends, and a little bit of history!
Join us for a discussion on the legacy of Black farming in New York, exploring its historical significance and current challenges.
Dr. Michael Lucas, Curator of Historical Archaeology at the New York State Museum, will share his research the Powell homestead, which traces the journey of Thomas and Betty Powell, formerly enslaved individuals who purchased land in 1818 and built the largest African American-owned farm in the Albany area, their descendants maintaining ownership for 140 years while experiencing triumph, tragedy, success, and loss.
Christine Hutchinson, co-director of the Northeast Farmers of Color Land Trust, will then discuss the ongoing struggles and triumphs of Black farmers today, including issues of land access, food sovereignty, and community empowerment.
This event offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history and future of Black farming in New York. All are welcome to attend!
Dive into history with Dr. Daria Merwin, Co-Director of the Cultural Resource Survey Program. Naval battles and waterborne skirmishes were crucial in shaping the Revolutionary War in New York, where the powerful British Navy faced off against the resourceful Patriots. Many of these events have left behind hidden archaeological sites, offering fascinating glimpses into America's struggle for independence. Join Dr. Merwin as she uncovers New York's maritime history and reveals the untold stories beneath the surface.
Bring your favorite stuffed animal to the New York State Library for a fun overnight adventure! During Museum Storytime Adventures with the State Librarian, you can drop off your stuffie to participate in an exclusive after-hours tour of the Library, Museum, and Archives. Your stuffie will get checked in and have the chance to see special collections and meet junior archivist, Archie! Who knows what kind of mischief they'll get into?
Be sure to pick up your stuffie at the Museum on April 10 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm and follow along on the Library's social media channels to see all the excitement!
Join us this May for a powerful screening series in honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. Each week, we’ll explore a different chapter in American history through the acclaimed WETA for PBS series Asian Americans, a bold and personal five-part documentary that reshapes how we understand our past—and our present. Told through the lived experiences of those who helped shape the nation, Asian Americans brings to light stories of strength, identity, struggle, and triumph.
Screenings will be held weekly and include one to two episodes that trace the evolution of Asian American experiences from the 19th century to the 21st. Discover how Asian Americans have long been at the heart of the American story—and how their contributions continue to guide the way forward.
Good Americans
During the Cold War years, Asian Americans are simultaneously heralded as a Model Minority, and targeted as the perpetual foreigner. It is also a time of bold ambition, as Asian Americans aspire for the first time to national political office and a coming culture-quake simmers beneath the surface.
Join us this May for a powerful screening series in honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. Each week, we’ll explore a different chapter in American history through the acclaimed WETA for PBS series Asian Americans, a bold and personal five-part documentary that reshapes how we understand our past—and our present. Told through the lived experiences of those who helped shape the nation, Asian Americans brings to light stories of strength, identity, struggle, and triumph.
Screenings will be held weekly and include one to two episodes that trace the evolution of Asian American experiences from the 19th century to the 21st. Discover how Asian Americans have long been at the heart of the American story—and how their contributions continue to guide the way forward.
Join Dr. Peter Fix, Principal Conservator of the World Trade Center Ship and expert in Archaeological Watercraft Conservation at Texas A&M University, for a 30-minute lunchtime talk presented live in the South Lobby—where the ship is currently being reconstructed and on view to the public.
Unearthed in 2010 beneath the World Trade Center site, this Revolutionary War-era gunboat lay hidden for over two centuries beneath the Hudson River shoreline. Believed to have been built near Philadelphia in the 1770s and possibly seized by the British during the war, the vessel offers a rare glimpse into early American maritime history.
Peter will share updates on the conservation process, along with insights into the ship’s discovery, historical significance, and the meticulous work involved in bringing this 18th-century artifact back to life. Don’t miss this chance to witness history in the making and explore the connection between America’s revolutionary past and its modern-day preservation.
Join Brad Utter, NYSM Senior Historian and Curator of Science and Technological History, for a fascinating tour through Fire Engine Hall, where fire engines are not just machines, but symbols of civic pride and innovation. Explore the evolution of firefighting apparatus, from hand-drawn engines to motorized fire vehicles, and discover how New York State was at the forefront of firefighting technology in the 19th and 20th centuries.
On this tour, you'll dive into the rich history of fire protection, learn about the brave communities who pioneered new methods to battle blazes. See iconic items like the 1791 hand engine, ceremonial fire trumpets, and even the dazzling 1875 Parade Fire Carriage. Along the way, we will share insightful stories and fascinating facts about the culture, technology, and tradition of firefighting.
Whether you're a history enthusiast or just curious about the legacy of fire safety, this tour is an engaging experience for all ages.
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!