From Bunker Hill to Ground Zero: A Button’s Journey Through History
Among the fragments of timber and history uncovered at the World Trade Center site in 2010, archaeologists discovered the remains of an 18th-century wooden gunboat—likely built near Philadelphia in the early 1770s and used during the Revolutionary War. Amid the wreckage, they found an unexpected clue to the vessel’s past: a small, worn military button. At first glance, it seemed ordinary, like one of many buttons commonly used on British military uniforms during the 18th century. But this particular button bore the number “52,” linking it to the 52nd Regiment of Foot, a British infantry unit that played a prominent role in the American Revolution.
The 52nd Regiment is known for its involvement in key early battles, including Lexington and Bunker Hill in 1775. Over the next few years, it was deployed to campaigns in New York and Philadelphia, returning to New York in 1778. The presence of this button within the ship’s timbers offers a compelling thread in the broader story of the vessel’s origin and fate.
Research now suggests that the ship itself was constructed near Philadelphia shortly after 1773. Its design matches the shallow-draft American gunboats built for navigating rivers and harbors during the Revolutionary War. The military nature of the vessel is further supported by the recovery of musket balls, iron canister shot or grape shot, and gun flints from the same site.
Together, these finds suggest a vivid possibility that the ship was originally American, played a role in the war effort, and was later captured by British forces—perhaps even by soldiers of the 52nd Regiment. This single button, no more than an inch in diameter, has become a powerful piece of evidence, demonstrating how even the smallest artifacts can unlock remarkable stories from the past.
Now on View
Don’t miss the chance to see the original military button, along with other everyday 18th-century artifacts recovered from the World Trade Center site, displayed alongside the reconstruction of the Gunboat happening now at the New York State Museum!
Related Information
What’s Inside? New York State Museum Announces Partnership With Albany Medical Center to CT Scan Dinosaur Egg and Giant Beaver Skull
(Top) New York State Museum’s Hadrosaur dinosaur egg. Credit: New York State Museum; (Bottom) The oldest fossil of the Giant Beaver (Castoroides ohioensis). Credit: New York State Museum
It’s the ultimate prehistoric time capsule—and we’re about to unlock it. The New York State Museum is thrilled to announce its partnership with Albany Medical Center to look inside two of its most awe-inspiring artifacts, including a 70–80 million-year-old dinosaur egg that has captivated tour groups and young learners for years.
Believed to be from a Hadrosaur—a duck-billed dinosaur from the late Cretaceous Period—the egg likely originates from Asia. Roughly the size of a cantaloupe and weighing seven pounds, this fossilized relic has the potential to teach us specific details of the early life of these amazing, extinct creatures, known to have also lived in the Northeastern United States – forging a link between this fossil and our region’s ancient past.
Dr. Robert Feranec, Director of Research and Collections and Curator of Pleistocene Vertebrate Paleontology, said, “While the New York State Museum’s collections contain countless rare artifacts and specimens, there is perhaps none that holds more mysteries to us as the dinosaur egg. Regularly, we are asked, ‘Is there a baby inside?’ Partnering with Albany Medical Center provides us the opportunity to see below the egg’s surface for the first time to answer that question and further our understanding of this incredibly unique specimen stewarded within the Museum’s collections. This analysis could hold information about dinosaur reproduction and embryonic development, for this group of dinosaurs of the late Cretaceous. We are deeply grateful to Albany Medical Center for their partnership and enthusiasm in helping to bring science to life.”
Dominic Zanello, Manager of CT Scan and MRI at Albany Medical Center, said, “Our state-of-the-art imaging supports the best patient care, and as an academic medical center, community partnerships such as those centered around research and discovery are important to our mission. Our 256-slice CT technology—the most advanced imaging capability available in the region—provides three dimensional cross-sections of the artifacts, allowing us to see what’s invisible to the naked eye—layer by layer, detail by detail. It’s a fascinating collaboration between medicine and paleontology that helps uncover details long hidden within these extraordinary objects, and one we are honored to partner on.”
The Museum's dinosaur egg isn’t the only fossil going to the doctor’s office. Also under the digital knife is the skull of a Giant Beaver (Castoroides ohioensis)—an Ice Age mammal that was as large as a modern black bear. The State Museum holds the first described skull and oldest fossil of this extinct species, and for the first time, its internal structure will be digitally examined.
Native to Pleistocene-era New York, giant beavers’ skulls and teeth point to a unique diet and lifestyle. These scans will help scientists better understand this extinct species, its ecology, and how it is different from modern species.
Stay tuned. In the coming weeks, the Museum and Albany Med will share behind-the-scenes footage, scan imagery, and expert analysis of what’s discovered—from the prehistoric to the Pleistocene.
About the New York State Museum
Established in 1836, the New York State Museum is the oldest and largest public museum in the United States. Home to leading scientists, historians, archeologists, and anthropologists, its collections represent the State’s rich cultural and natural heritage from the past and present, including a staggering 20+ million artifacts spanning 1.1 billion years ago to today. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website and subscribe to our newsletter.
About Albany Medical Center
Albany Medical Center, northeastern New York’s only academic medical center, is one of the largest private employers in the Capital Region. It incorporates the 766-bed Albany Medical Center Hospital, which offers the widest range of medical and surgical services in the region, and Albany Medical College, which trains the next generation of doctors, scientists, and other healthcare professionals. It also includes the region’s largest physicians’ practice with 500 doctors. Albany Medical Center works with dozens of community partners to improve the region’s health and quality of life. Albany Medical Center is a member of the Albany Med Health System, which also includes Columbia Memorial Health, Glens Falls Hospital, Saratoga Hospital, and the Visiting Nurses. The region’s largest locally governed health system, it has 1,520 beds, more than 800 physicians, and 125 outpatient locations throughout the Capital Region.
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Credit: New York State Museum
The oldest fossil of the Giant Beaver (Castoroides ohioensis)
Credit: New York State Museum
Peering into the Prehistoric: A Dinosaur Egg and Ice Age Giant Go Under the Scanner
A prehistoric time capsule is about to be opened, and the New York State Museum is at the helm of this thrilling scientific journey! In an unprecedented collaboration with Albany Medical Center, the Museum is preparing to peer inside two of its most captivating fossils using cutting-edge CT scanning technology.
First up: a 70–80 million-year-old dinosaur egg. About the size of a cantaloupe and weighing seven pounds, this remarkable fossil offers a rare glimpse into prehistoric life. Believed to be from a Hadrosaur—duck-billed dinosaurs that roamed the Earth during the late Cretaceous Period—this fossil likely originated in Asia.
Now, for the first time, scientists will look inside this egg to uncover its secrets. Could it contain the remains of an embryo? What might it reveal about dinosaur development and reproduction? Advanced imaging technology will allow researchers to explore these questions without damaging the specimen, bringing new insight into the ancient lives of these remarkable creatures.
But the dinosaur egg isn’t the only fossil heading into the CT suite. Also under the digital microscope is the skull of a Giant Beaver (Castoroides ohioensis)—an enormous Ice Age rodent that once lumbered through Pleistocene-era New York. As big as a modern black bear, this species had unique features that set it apart from today’s beavers, especially in its skull and teeth.
This particular specimen is historic, as it marks the first skull ever described for the species. Scanning it will provide a clearer picture of its internal structure, helping scientists better understand its biology, behavior, and place in the ecosystem of ancient North America.
This remarkable fusion of medical technology and paleontology marks a new chapter in fossil research. Over the coming weeks, the NYSM and Albany Med will reveal behind-the-scenes footage, stunning scan images, and expert interpretations—unlocking secrets that have been hidden for tens of thousands, even millions, of years.
Stay tuned as science brings the ancient world vividly to life.
Benjamin Franklin's Anti-Slavery Petition
Even as Washington remained silent on the issue of slavery, other Founders, including Benjamin Franklin, publicly advocated for the abolition of slavery in the United States. This petition was signed by Franklin and presented to the US Congress in New York City in February 1790.
Front and back of Benjamin Franklin's Anti-Slavery Petition, February 1790.
Courtesy of the National Archives
To the Senate & House of Representatives of the United States,
The Memorial of the Pennsylvania Society for promoting the Abolition of Slavery, the relief of free Negroes unlawfully held in bondage, & the Improvement of the Condition of the African Races.
Respectfully Sheweth,
That from a regard for the happiness of Mankind an Association was formed several years since in this State by a number of her Citizens of various religious denominations for promoting the Abolition of Slavery & for the relief of those unlawfully held in bondage. A just & accurate Conception of the true Principles of liberty, as it spread through the land, produced accessions to their numbers, many friends to their Cause, & a legislative Co-operation with their views, which, by the blessing of Divine Providence, have been successfully directed to the relieving from bondage a large number of their fellow Creatures of the African Race. They have also the Satisfaction to observe, that in consequence of that Spirit of Philanthropy & genuine liberty which is generally diffusing its beneficial Influence, similar Institutions are gradually forming at home & abroad. That mankind are all formed by the same Almighty being, alike objects of his Care & equally designed for the Enjoyment of Happiness the Christian Religion teaches us to believe & the Political Creed of America fully coincides with the Position. Your Memorialists, particularly engaged in attending to the Distresses arising from Slavery, believe it their indispensable Duty to present this Subject to your notice. They have observed with great Satisfaction that many important & salutary Powers are vested in you for "promoting the Welfare & Securing the blessings of liberty to the People of the United States." And as they conceive, that these blessings ought rightfully to be administered, without distinction of Colour, to all descriptions of People, so they indulge themselves in the pleasing expectation, that nothing, which can be done for the relive of the unhappy objects of their care, will be either omitted or delayed. From a persuasion that equal liberty was originally the Portion, It is still the Birthright of all men, & influenced by the strong ties of Humanity & the Principles of their Institution, your Memorialists conceive themselves bound to use all justifiable endeavours to loosen the bounds of Slavery and promote a general Enjoyment of the blessings of Freedom. Under these Impressions they earnestly entreat your serious attention to the Subject of Slavery, that you will be pleased to countenance the Restoration of liberty to those unhappy Men, who alone, in this land of Freedom, are degraded into perpetual Bondage, and who, amidst the general Joy of surrounding Freemen, are groaning in Servile Subjection, that you will devise means for removing this Inconsistency from the Character of the American People, that you will promote mercy and Justice towards this distressed Race, & that you will Step to the very verge of the Powers vested in you for discouraging every Species of Traffick in the Persons of our fellow men.
Philadelphia February 3, 1790
B. Franklin
President of the Society
Transcript Source
This transcript was sourced from:
https://www.colorado.edu/herbst/sites/default/files/attached-files/brooks_lunch_seminar_day_1.pdf
George Washington: An American Paradox Exhibition Resources
This page provides transcriptions of original historical documents featured in the exhibit George Washington, an American Paradox. The handwritten documents—many in 18th-century cursive—can be difficult for modern readers to interpret. These transcriptions offer accessible versions of the texts to help visitors engage more deeply with the ideas, contradictions, and lived realities of early America.
George Washington's Farewell Address
In his farewell address, Washington warned of the dangers of sectionalism, political partisanship, and entangling foreign alliances. After 45 years of public service, the 64-year-old Washington sought to retire to his Mount Vernon estate to enjoy “the benign influence of good laws under a free government” while denying such enjoyment to more than 250 enslaved individuals.
The first five pages of George Washington's 19-page farewell address of 1796.
George Washington Relics, New York State Library
George Washington's Farewell Address was delivered on September 19, 1796. Listen to a portion of the speech recorded in 1913 by Harry E. Humphrey. (Courtesy of the Library of Congress).
Friends and Fellow Citizens
The quotation in this address, was composed, and intended to have been published, in the year 1792; in time to have announced to the Electors of the President & Vice President of the United States the determination of the former previous to the sd Election but the solicitude of my confidential friends, added to the peculiar situation of our foreign affairs at that epoch induced me to suspend the promulgation; lest among other reasons my retirement might be ascribed to political cowardice. In place thereof I resolved, if it should be the pleasure of my fellow citizens to honor me again with their suffrages, to devote such services as I should render, a year or two longer: trusting that within that period all impedements to an honorable retreat would be removed.
In this hope, as fondly entertained as it was conceived, I entered upon the execution of the duties of my second Administration. But if the causes wch produced this postponement had any weight in them at that period it will readily be perceived that there has been no diminution in them since, until very lately, and it will serve to account for the delay wch has taken place in communicating the sentiments which were then committed to writing and are now found in the following words.
“The period which will close the appointment with which my fellow citizens have honoured me, being not very distant, and the time actually arrived, at which their thoughts must be designating the citizen who is to administer the Executive Government of the United States during the ensuing term, it may conduce to a more distinct expression of the public voice, that I should apprize such of my fellow citizens as may retain their partiality towards me, that I am not to be numbered among those out of whom a choice is to be made.
“I beg them to be assured that the Resolution which dictates this intimation has not been taken without the strictest regard to the relation which as a dutiful citizen I bear to my country; and that in withdrawing that tender of my service, which silence in my situation might imply, I am not influenced by the smallest deficiency of zeal for its future interests, or of grateful respect for its past kindness: but by the fullest persuasion that such a step is compatible with both.
“The impressions under which I entered on the present arduous trust were explained on the proper occasion. In discharge of this trust I can only say that I have contributed towards the organization and administration of the Government the best exertions of which a very fallible judgment was capable. For any errors which may have flowed from this source, I feel all the regret which an anxiety for the public can excite; not without the double consolation, however, arising from a consciousness of their being involuntary, and an experience of the candor which will interpret them. If there were any circumstances that could give value to my inferior qualifications for the trust, these circumstances must have been temporary. In this light was the undertaking viewed when I ventured on it. Being, moreover still farther advanced into the decline of life, I am every day more sensible that the increasing weight of years, renders the private walks of it in the shade of retirement, as necessary as they will be acceptable to me. May I be allowed to add, that it will be among the highest as well as purest enjoyments that can sweeten the remnant of my days, to partake, in a private station in the midst of my fellow citizens, of that benign influence of good laws under a free Government, which has been the ultimate object of all my wishes, and in wch I confide as the happy reward of our cares and labours. May I be allowed further to add as a consideration far more important, that an early example of rotation in an office of so high and delicate a nature, may equally accord with the republican spirit of our Constitution, and the ideas of liberty and safety entertained by the people.
“In contemplating the moment at which the curtain is to drop for ever on the public scenes of my life, my sensations anticipate and do not permit me to suspend, the deep acknowledgments required by that debt of gratitude which I owe to my beloved country for the many honors it has conferred on me, for the distinguished confidence it has reposed in me, and for the opportunities I have thus enjoyed of testifying my inviolable attachment by the most steadfast services which my faculties could render. All the returns I have now to make will be in those vows which I shall carry with me to my retirement and to my grave, that Heaven may continue to favor the people of the United States with the choicest tokens of its benificence; that their union and brotherly affection may be perpetual; that the free Constitution which is the work of their own hands, may be sacredly maintained; that its administration in every department, may be stamped with wisdom and with virtue; and that this character may be ensured to it, by that watchfulness over public Servants and public measures, which on one hand will be necessary to prevent or correct a degeneracy; and that forbearance, on the other, from unfounded or indiscriminate jealousies which would deprive the public of the best services, by depriving a conscious integrity of one of the noblest incitements to perform them; that in fine the happiness of the people of America, under the auspices of liberty, may be made compleat, by so careful a preservation, and so prudent a use of this blessing, as will acquire them the glorious satisfaction of recommending it to the affection—the praise—and the adoption of every Nation which is yet a stranger to it.
“And may we not dwell with well grounded hopes on this flattering prospect; when we reflect on the many ties by which the people of America are bound together, and the many proofs they have given of an enlightened judgment and a magnanimous patriotism.
“We may all be considered as the children of one common Country. We have all been embarked in one common cause. We have all had our share in common sufferings and common successes. The portion of the Earth allotted for the theatre of our fortunes, fulfils our most sanguine desires. All its essential interests are the same; whilst its diversities arising from climate from soil and from other local & lesser peculiarities, will naturally form a mutual relation of the parts, that may give the whole a more entire independence than has perhaps fallen to the lot of any other nation.
“To confirm these motives to an affectionate and permanent Union, and to secure the great objects of it, we have established a common Government, which being free in its principles, being founded in our own choice, being intended as the guardian of our common rights—and the patron of our common interests—and wisely containing within itself a provision for its own amendment, as experience may point out its errors, seems to promise every thing that can be expected from such an institution; and if supported by wise Councils—by virtuous conduct—and by mutual and friendly allowances, must approach as near to perfection as any human work can aspire, and nearer than any which the annals of mankind have recorded.
“With these wishes and hopes I shall make my exit from civil life; and I have taken the same liberty of expressing them, which I formerly used in offering the sentiments which were suggested by my exit from military life. If, in either instance, I have presumed more than I ought, on the indulgence of my fellow Citizens, they will be too generous to ascribe it to any other cause than the extreme solicitude which I am bound to feel, and which I can never cease to feel for their liberty—their prosperity—and their happiness.”
Had the situation of our public affairs continued to wear the same aspect they assumed at the time the aforegoing address was drawn I should not have taken the liberty of troubling you—my fellow citizens—with any new sentiment or with a rep[et]ition, more in detail, of those which are therein contained; but considerable changes having taken place both at home & abroad, I shall ask your indulgence while I express with more lively sensibility, the following most ardent wishes of my heart.
That party disputes, among all the friends and lovers of their country may subside, or, as the wisdom of Providence hath ordained that men, on the same subjects, shall not always think alike, that charity & benevolence when they happen to differ may so far shed their benign influence as to banish those invectives which proceed from illiberal prejudices and Jealousy.
That as the Allwise dispensor of human blessings has favored no Nation of the Earth with more abundant & substantial means of happiness than United America, that we may not be so ungrateful to our Creator—So wanting to ourselves—and so regardless of Posterity—as to dash the cup of benificence which is thus bountifully offered to our acceptance.
That we may fulfill with the greatest exactitude all our engagements, foreign and domestic; to the utmost of our abilities whensoever, and in whatsoever manner they are pledged: for in public, as in private life, I am persuaded that honesty will forever be found to be the best policy.
That we may avoid connecting ourselves with the Politics of any Nation, further than shall be found necessary to regulate our own trade; in order that commerce may be placed upon a stable footing—our merchants know their rights—and the government the ground on which those rights are to be supported.
That every citizen would take pride in the name of an American, and act as if he felt the importance of the character by considering that we ourselves are now a distinct Nation the dignity of which will be absorbed, if not annihilated, if we enlist ourselves (further than our obligations may require) under the banners of any other Nation whatsoever. And moreover, that we would guard against the Intriegues of any and every foreign Nation who shall endeavor to intermingle (however covertly & indirectly) in the internal concerns of our country—or who shall attempt to prescribe rules for our policy with any other power if their be no infraction of our engagements with themselves, as one of the greatest evils that can befall us as a People; for whatever may be their professions, be assured fellow Citizens and the event will (as it always has) invariably prove, that Nations as well as individuals, act for their own benefit, and not for the benefit of others, unless both interests happen to be assimilated (and when that is the case there requires no contract to bind them together)—That all their interferences are calculated to promote the former; and in proportion as they succeed, will render us less independant. In a word, nothing is more certain than that, if we receive favors, we must grant favors; and it is not easy to decide beforehand under such circumstances as we are, on which side the balance will ultimately terminate—but easy indeed is it to foresee that it may involve us in disputes and finally in War, to fulfil political alliances. Whereas, if there be no engagement on our part, we shall be unembarassed, and at liberty at all times, to act from circumstances, and the dictates of Justice—sound policy—and our essential Interests.
That we may be always prepared for War, but never unsheath the sword except in self defence so long as Justice and our essential rights, and National respectability can be preserved without it—for without the gift of prophecy, it may safely be presumed, that if this country can remain in peace 20 years longer—and I devoutly pray that it may do so to the end of time—such in all probability will be its population, riches & resources, when combined with its peculiarly happy & remote Situation from the other quarter of the globe—as to bid defiance, in a just cause, to any earthly power whatsoever.
That whensoever, and so long as we profess to be Neutral, let our public conduct whatever our private affections may be, accord therewith; without suffering partialities on one hand, or prejudices on the other to controul our Actions. A contrary practice is not only incompatible with our declarations, but is pregnant with mischief embarrassing to the Administration—tending to divide us into parties—and ultimately productive of all those evils and horrors which proceed from faction—and above all
That our Union may be as lasting as time. for While we are encircled in one band we shall possess the strength of a Giant and there will be none who can make us affraid—Divide, & we shall become weak; a prey to foreign Intriegues and internal discord, and shall be as miserable & contemptible as we are now enviable and happy—And lastly—
That the several departments of Government may be preserved in their utmost Constitutional purity, without any attempt of the one to encroach on the rights or priviledges of another—that the Genl & state governmts may move in their propr Orbits—And that the authorities of our own constituting may be respected by ourselves as the most certain means of having them respected by foreigners. On expressing these sentiments it will readily be perceived that I can have no view now—whatever malevolence might have ascribed to it before—than such as result from a perfect conviction of the utility of the measure. If public servants, in the exercise of their official duties are found incompetent or pursuing wrong courses discontinue them. If they are guilty of mal-practices in office, let them be more ex[em]plarily punished—in both cases the Constitution & Laws have made provision, but do not withdraw your confidence from them—the best incentive to a faithful discharge of their duty—without just cause; nor infer because measures of a complicated nature—which time, opportunity and close investigation alone can penetrate, and for these reasons are not easily comprehended by those who do not possess the means, that it necessarily follows they must be wrong; This would not only be doing injustice to your Trustees, but be counteracting your own essential interests—rendering those Trustees (if not contemptable in the eyes of the world) little better at least than cyphers in the Administration of the government and the Constitution of your own chusing would reproach you for such conduct.
As this Address, Fellow citizens will be the last I shall ever make to you, and as some of the Gazettes of the United States have teemed with all the Invective that disappointment, ignorance of facts, and malicious falsehoods could invent, to misrepresent my politics & affections; to wound my reputation and feelings; and to weaken, if not entirely to destroy the confidence you had been pleased to repose in me; it might be expected at the parting scene of my public life that I should take some notice of such virulent abuse. But, as heretofore, I shall pass them over in utter silence; never having myself, nor by any other with my participation or knowledge, written or published a scrap in answer to any of them. My politicks have been unconcealed; plain and direct. They will be found (so far as they relate to the Belligerent Powers) in the Proclamation of the 22d of April 1793; which, having met your approbation, and the confirmation of Congress, I have uniformly & steadily adhered to—uninfluenced by, and regardless of complaints & the attempts of any of these powers or their partisans to change them.
The Acts of my Administration are on Record. By these, which will not change with circumstances—nor admit of different interpretations, I expect to judge & If they will not acquit me, in your estimation, it will be a source of regret; but I shall hope notwithstanding, as I did not seek the Office with which you have honored me, that charity may throw her mantle over my want of abilities to do better—that the grey hairs of a man who has, excepting the interval between the close of the Revolutionary War, and the organization of the new government—either in a civil, or military character, spent five and forty years—All the prime of his life—in serving his country, be suffered to pass quietly to the grave—and that his errors, however numerous, if they are not criminal, may be consigned to the Tomb of oblivion, as he himself soon will be to the Mansions of Retirement.
To err, is the lot of humanity, and never, for a moment, have I ever had the presumption to suppose that I had not a full proportion of it. Infallibility not being the attribute of Man, we ought to be cautious in censuring the opinions and conduct of one another. To avoid intentional error in my public conduct, has been my constant endeavor; and I set malice at defiance to charge me, Justly, with the commission of a wilful one; or with the neglect of any public duty, which, in my opinion ought to have been performed, since I have been in the Administration of the government. An Administration which I do not hesitate to pronounce—the infancy of the government and all other circumstances considered—that has been as delicate—difficult—& trying as may occur again in any future period of our history. Through the whole of which I have to the best of my judgment, and with the best information and advice I could obtain, consulted the true & permanent interest of my country without regard to local considerations—to individuals—to parties—or to Nations. To conclude, and I feel proud in having it in my power to do so with truth, that it was not from ambitious views; it was not from ignorance of the hazard to which I knew I was exposing my reputation; it was not from an expectation of pecuniary compensation—that I have yielded to the calls of my country; and that, if my country has derived no benefit from my services, my fortune, in a pecuniary point of view, has received no augmentation from my country. But in delivering this last sentiment, let me be unequivocally understood as not intending to express any discontent on my part, or to imply any reproach on my country on that account. The first wd be untrue—the other ungrateful. And no occasion more fit than the present may ever occur perhaps to declare, as I now do declare, that nothing but the principle upon which I set out—and from which I have, in no instance departed—not to receive more from the public than my expences has restrained the bounty of several Legislatures at the close of the War with Great Britain from adding considerably to my pecuniary resources. I retire from the Chair of government no otherwise benefitted in this particular than what you have all experienced from the increased value of property, flowing from the Peace and prosperity with which our country has been blessed amidst tumults which have harrassed and involved other countries in all the horrors of War. I leave you with undefiled hands—an uncorrupted heart—and with ardent vows to heaven for the Welfare & happiness of that country in which I and my forefathers to the third or fourth progenitor drew our first breath.
Transcript Source
Transcript text above (Clean):
https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/05-20-02-0108-0002
PDF Transcript (With original edits) was prepared by the New York State Library
2025 New York History Conference Resource Page
New York State Museum Reveals Scientific Findings From CT Scan of Dinosaur Egg and Giant Beaver Skull
State Museum Partnered with Albany Medical Center to Advance Its Research and Understanding of Two Important Artifacts
Downloadable Photos and Video Can Be Accessed in the Online Press Kit
New York State Museum paleontologists have traveled 70-80 million years into the past in collaboration with radiological experts at Albany Medical Center. The strategic partnership between the two research institutions allowed scientists to take a look inside two of the Museum’s rarest artifacts, including a dinosaur egg believed to be from a Hadrosaur—a duck-billed dinosaur from the late Cretaceous Period, and the skull of a Giant Beaver (Castoroides ohioensis)—an extinct Ice Age mammal that was as large as a modern black bear.
The New York State Museum’s collection holds the first described skull of a Giant Beaver, and while the dinosaur egg likely originates from Asia, this group of dinosaurs was known to have also lived in the Northeastern United States. CT scan technology allowed researchers to digitally examine the internal structure of both artifacts for the first time, providing a detailed look inside without causing any damage to the items.
The CT scan on June 11, 2025, provided Museum paleontologists with a crucial view of the Giant Beaver skull, enhancing their understanding of the extinct mammal in ways previously impossible.
Although the scan of the dinosaur egg did not reveal density differences to confirm an embryo, it suggests the egg is intact. A small internal cavity will be further examined for identification.
Michael Mastroianni, Interim Deputy Commissioner of Cultural Education, said “We are deeply grateful to Albany Med for their partnership and expertise. With their support, we were able to uncover new scientific insights into two of the Museum’s most intriguing specimens. The information gained from these scans will be an invaluable resource for our researchers and educators for years to come. At the New York State Museum, we strive every day to inspire curiosity and connect the public with the wonder of discovery—and collaborations like this help us do so in even more meaningful and powerful ways.”
Dr. Robert Feranec, Director of Research and Collections and Curator of Pleistocene Vertebrate Paleontology, said, “Wednesday’s scan has provided us with valuable insight to better our understanding of the reproduction and embryonic development of these extinct creatures. Our scientists are recognized as some of the best in their fields, but we can only see so much with the naked eye. There is much more we can learn from both the beaver skull and dinosaur egg, with these results acting as momentum pushing us closer to our answers. Collaborations like this are crucial to unlocking and preserving New York State’s past.”
Dominic Zanello, Manager of CT Scan and MRI at Albany Medical Center, said,
“As a research institution, we are happy to partner with our community to lend our expertise in scientific discovery. This was a fascinating project that allowed our team not only to participate in something they don’t see every day, but also to learn more about the advanced capabilities of our leading-edge technology.”
Museum researchers will continue to analyze the scans over the coming weeks and months.
About the New York State Museum
Established in 1836, the New York State Museum is the oldest and largest public museum in the United States. Home to leading scientists, historians, archeologists, and anthropologists, its collections represent the State’s rich cultural and natural heritage from the past and present, including a staggering 20+ million artifacts spanning 1.1 billion years ago to today. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website and subscribe to our newsletter.
About Albany Medical Center
Albany Medical Center, northeastern New York’s only academic medical center, is one of the largest private employers in the Capital Region. It incorporates the 766-bed Albany Medical Center Hospital, which offers the widest range of medical and surgical services in the region, and Albany Medical College, which trains the next generation of doctors, scientists, and other healthcare professionals. It also includes the region’s largest physicians’ practice with 500 doctors. Albany Medical Center works with dozens of community partners to improve the region’s health and quality of life. Albany Medical Center is a member of the Albany Med Health System, which also includes Columbia Memorial Health, Glens Falls Hospital, Saratoga Hospital, and the Visiting Nurses. The region’s largest locally governed health system, it has 1,520 beds, more than 800 physicians, and 125 outpatient locations throughout the Capital Region.
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Unlocking Prehistoric Secrets With 21st Century Tools
New York State Museum and Albany Medical Center Collaborate on Groundbreaking Paleontological Research
The New York State Museum has partnered with Albany Medical Center to conduct advanced research on two significant artifacts from the Museum’s collection: a dinosaur egg believed to originate from a Hadrosaur and the skull of a Giant Beaver (Castoroides ohioensis), a large extinct mammal from the Ice Age.
Utilizing CT scan technology, paleontologists and radiological experts were able to examine the internal structures of these rare specimens without damaging them. This marks the first time such detailed imaging has been used on these particular artifacts.
The CT scan of the dinosaur egg, which likely originated in Asia but represents a species known to have lived in the Northeastern United States, revealed no definitive evidence of an embryo. However, the scan did indicate that the egg is intact, and a small internal cavity identified during the scan will undergo further analysis.
Meanwhile, scans of the Giant Beaver skull offered answers right away, providing researchers with new anatomical details that were previously inaccessible. As the first described skull of this extinct Ice Age species, the specimen is a key piece in understanding the biology and evolution of the Giant Beaver. The CT data significantly enhances scientific knowledge of the structure of it's skull and teeth and is expected to support ongoing research into its life history and paleoecology.
Ultimately, this unique partnership between museum and hospital exemplifies how interdisciplinary collaborations can expand the scope of scientific discovery. Researchers from both institutions will continue to study the data collected from the scans in the coming weeks and months, with the goal of deepening understanding of prehistoric life and improving educational outreach.
Join us for an hour-long cinematic journey through the overlooked and underground worlds of mycology. This film foray features a curated selection of short films that spotlight lesser-known voices and visionary perspectives in fungal science and culture. From the poetic to the peculiar, each film uncovers the hidden figures who’ve shaped—and are reshaping—how we see the mushrooming world around (and beneath) us.
Featured Films:
- 23 and Mary: A Banning Abecedarium – Maya Han (20 min)
- The Mushroom King – Aaron Fedor (17 min)
- Beneath – Beth Walker (4 min)
- Fly Amanita – David Fenster (5 min)
Don’t miss this special screening inspired by the legacy of Mary Banning and the NYSM’s new exhibition Outcasts: Mary Banning’s World of Mushrooms
Registration recommended: RSVP HERE
Step right up for a whirl of fun! Join us at the New York State Museum for a joyful celebration of National Carousel Day! Enjoy a morning full of fun with carousel-themed stories, creative crafts, and the chance to ride our historic 111-year-old Herschell-Spillman carousel—a treasure of American folk art and childhood joy. Learn about the carousel’s rich history and the magic of its makers. This free, family-friendly event promises to have kids (and grownups!) spinning with joy.
Join Susan Winchell-Sweeney, Anthropology Collections Manager at the New York State Museum, for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the South Street Seaport archaeology collection—a trove of over 2 million artifacts spanning 300+ years of Manhattan’s past.
Gain an insider’s perspective on this extraordinary collection, which includes the largest archaeological assemblage from Dutch New Netherland and discover how its transfer deepens our understanding of early New York City.
From clay pipe fragments smoked by Dutch settlers to broken China cups from mid-19th-century tea sets, Susan will reveal how these seemingly ordinary objects hold extraordinary stories. Learn how even the tiniest artifacts help reconstruct the daily lives of early New Yorkers—and why these mundane fragments remain vital for ongoing research and reinterpretation.
Space is limited. Registration is required: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hidden-stories-from-the-south-street-seaport-collection-tickets
Join us for a reception to celebrate the opening of the New York State Museum’s newest exhibition: George Washington: An American Paradox.
George Washington has been celebrated as a hero of American independence and democracy. A closer look reveals a legacy marked by monumental achievements, but also by profound contradiction. Featuring compelling artifacts and stories, this exhibition highlights the diverse voices that shaped—and were shaped by—New York’s Revolutionary era. Engage with the enduring promises of liberty and freedom and consider how these ideals sparked movements for equality that continue today.
Enjoy light refreshments and a cash bar featuring Common Roots Brewing Company.
Presented by the Albany 250th Commission.
Join Aaron Noble, NYSM Senior Historian and Curator of Political and Military History, for a thought-provoking gallery talk in the museum’s newest exhibition, George Washington: An American Paradox. Discover the complexities behind the icon—how the legacy of America’s first president was shaped by both revolutionary ideals and stark contradictions. Through compelling artifacts and overlooked narratives, explore how New York’s Revolutionary era continues to inspire questions about freedom, equality, and the unfinished work of democracy.
Dive into the fascinating world of ichthyology with this rare, behind-the-scenes tour of the New York State Museum’s Fish Lab, led by Curator of Ichthyology Dr. Jeremy Wright. Explore how cutting-edge genetic techniques, ecological surveys, and museum collections are reshaping our understanding of freshwater biodiversity in New York—and far beyond. Learn how Dr. Wright’s research is uncovering hidden species, tracking the impacts of pollution and invasive species, and helping scientists better understand the diversity and evolution of fish communities across the region. This off-site experience offers a unique chance to see where science meets discovery and to ask questions in an active research setting not normally open to the public.
Registration for this program is now closed.
Join us on July 24th to commemorate the historic day in 2011 when New York’s Marriage Equality Act took effect, and same-sex couples across the state were finally able to legally marry. City halls and marriage bureaus opened their doors to joyful celebrations, marking a powerful moment in the ongoing fight for equal rights.
This special program features a screening of I Now Pronounce You Husband & Husband, a short documentary by Stephanie Donnelly about New Paltz Mayor Jason West, who in 2004 defied state law by officiating weddings for two dozen same-sex couples. His actions sparked national attention and helped propel the marriage equality movement forward.
Following the screening, join Ashley Hopkins-Benton, Senior Historian and Curator of Social History, for a guided tour of the New York State Museum’s exhibit New York Pride: The Fight for Marriage Equality, which explores the decades-long struggle for equal marriage rights in New York and its national impact.
12 pm: Film Screening | Huxley Theater
I Now Pronounce You Husband & Husband
12:30 pm: Gallery Tour | New York Metropolis Hall
Explore the exhibit New York Pride: The Fight for Marriage Equality with Ashley Hopkins-Benton
Join us for a special screening of Hallowed Ground, a compelling WCNY documentary that explores four endangered Revolutionary War battlefields in New York State. Through interviews with historians, tribal leaders, archaeologists, and community members, the film uncovers the history and present-day preservation challenges of these pivotal sites—Chemung, Newtown, Fort Ann, and Bennington Battlefield. Discover how these landscapes shaped the course of the American Revolution and continue to offer insight into our nation's past.
Join us for a special screening of New York's Seaway Lighthouses, a captivating WPBS documentary that explores 23 historic lighthouses along New York’s scenic Seaway Trail. Discover the fascinating stories of when and why these beacons were built and learn about the dedicated keepers who ensured their lights continued to shine. From towering landmarks to lesser-known gems, this film offers an illuminating journey through the maritime history of New York’s northern waterways.
Join us for the second of two special screenings of Discovering Jefferson County, a WPBS documentary series tracing the rich history of New York’s North Country.
Part 3: Tourism, Tragedy, and a Pirate: The Thousand Islands attracts visitors from all over the globe, as do the stories of wealthy castle owners, notable politicians, and famous historic figures that made the North Country their home or summer playground—notables like Ulysses S. Grant, author Marietta Holley, and of course, the most infamous pirate in these parts, Bill Johnston.
Part 4: Connections: Roadways, waterways, and an airport brought agriculture and tourism to the forefront in Jefferson County. This final episode brings the construction of the Thousand Islands Bridge, the creation of the St. Lawrence Seaway, the development of various roadways, and the Watertown International Airport.
Join us for a special screening of The Gray Riders, a WSKG documentary chronicling the over 100-year history of the New York State Police. Through rare archival footage, historic photographs, and powerful interviews with past and present troopers, the film traces the origins and evolution of one of the nation’s most respected law enforcement agencies. From its founding in 1917—sparked by a tragic crime and a call for justice—to a century of dedicated service, The Gray Riders honors the legacy, integrity, and enduring mission of the New York State Police.
Join us for the first of two special screenings of Discovering Jefferson County, a WPBS documentary series tracing the rich history of New York’s North Country.
Part 1: The French Connection and Early Settlers explores the early presence of the Oneida, Iroquois, and Algonquin tribes, the arrival of French explorers like Samuel Champlain, and how conflicts such as the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 shaped the region’s development.
Part 2: Burning, Building, and Rebuilding turns to the rise of Pine Plains—now Fort Drum—and its pivotal role in regional growth. As soldiers and their families settled nearby, towns flourished. Yet the period’s rapid expansion came with setbacks, including devastating fires that consumed timber-built structures like homes, mills, and businesses.
The Treaty of Canandaigua
The Treaty of Canandaigua is one of the earliest treaties establishing peace between the new United States and Native nations as sovereign entities. Among the signatories are Seneca leaders Cornplanter, Red Jacket, and Handsome Lake. Washington's signature is at the bottom.
Treaty of Canandaigua, 1794
Courtesy of the National Archives
The President of the United States having determined to hold a conference with the Six Nations of Indians, for the purpose of removing from their minds all causes of complaint, and establishing a firm and permanent friendship with them; and Timothy Pickering being appointed sole agent for that purpose; and the agent having met and conferred with the Sachems, Chiefs and Warriors of the Six Nations, in a general council: Now in order to accomplish the good design of this conference, the parties have agreed on the following articles, which, when ratified by the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate of the United States, shall be binding on them and the Six Nations.
Article I. Peace and friendship are hereby firmly established, and shall be perpetual, between the United States and the Six Nations.
Article II. The United States acknowledge the lands reserved to the Oneida, Onondaga and Cayuga Nations, in their respective treaties with the state of New York, and called their reservations, to be their property; and the United States will never claim the same, nor disturb them or either of the Six Nations, nor their Indian friends residing thereon and united with them, in the free use and enjoyment thereof: but the said reservations shall remain theirs, until they choose to sell the same to the people of the United States who have right to purchase.
Article III. The land of the Seneca nation is bounded as follows: Beginning on Lake Ontario, at the north-west corner of the land they sold to Oliver Phelps, the line run westerly along the lake, as far as O-yong-wong-yeh Creek at Johnson’s Landing-place, about four miles eastward from the fort of Niagara; then southerly up that creek to its main fork, then straight to the main fork of Stedman’s Creek, which empties into the river Niagara, above Fort Schlosser, and then onward, from that fork, continuing the same straight course, to that river; (this line, from the mouth of O-yong-wong-yeh Creek to the river Niagara, above Fort Schlosser, being the eastern boundary of a strip of land, extending from the same line to Niagara River, which the Seneca Nation ceded to the King of Great Britain, at a treaty held about thirty years ago, with Sir William Johnson;) then the line runs along the river Niagara to Lake Erie; then along Lake Erie to the north-east corner of a triangular piece of land which the United States conveyed to the state of Pennsylvania, as by the President’s patent, dated the third day of March, 1792; then due south to the northern boundary of that state; then due east to the south-west corner of the land sold by the Seneca nation to Oliver Phelps; and then north and northerly, along Phelps’ line, to the place beginning on Lake Ontario. Now, the United States acknowledge all the land within the aforementioned boundaries, to be the property of the Seneca nation; and the United States will never claim the same, nor disturb that Seneca nation, nor any of the Six Nations, or their Indian friends residing thereon and united with them, in the free use and enjoyment thereof: but it shall remain theirs, until they choose to sell the same to the people of the United States, who have the right to purchase.
Article IV. The United States having thus described and acknowledged what lands belong to the Oneidas, Onondagas, Cayugas, and Senecas, and engaged never to claim the same, nor to disturb them, or any of the Six Nations, or their Indian friends residing thereon and united with them, in the free use and enjoyment thereof: Now the Six Nations, and each of them, hereby engage that they will never claim any other lands within the boundaries of the United States; nor ever disturb the people of the United States in the free use and enjoyment thereof.
Article V. The Seneca Nation, all others of the Six Nations concurring, cede to the United States the right of making a wagon road from Fort Schlosser to Lake Erie, as far south as Buffalo Creek; and the people of the United States shall have the free and undisturbed use of this road, for the purposes of traveling and transportation. And the Six Nations, and each of them, will forever allow to the people of the United States, a free passage through their lands, and the free use of their harbors and rivers adjoining and within their respective tracts of land, for the passing and securing of vessels and boats, and liberty to land their cargoes when necessary for their safety.
Article VI. In consideration of the peace and friendship hereby established, and of the engagements entered into by the Six Nations; and because the United States desire, with humanity and kindness, to contribute to their comfortable support; and to render the peace and friendship hereby established strong and perpetual; the United States now deliver to the Six Nations, and the Indians of the other nations residing among and united with them, a quantity of goods of the value of ten thousand dollars. And for the same considerations, and with a view to promote the future welfare of the Six Nations, and of their Indian friends aforesaid, the United States will add the sum of three thousand dollars to the one thousand five hundred dollars, heretofore allowed them by an article ratified by the President, on the twenty-third day of April 1792; making in the whole, four thousand five hundred dollars; which shall be expended yearly forever, in purchasing clothing, domestic animals, implements of husbandry and other utensils suited to their circumstances, and in compensating useful artificers, who shall reside with them or near them, and be employed for their benefit. The immediate application of the whole annual allowance now stipulated, to be made by the superintendent appointed by the President for the affairs of the Six Nations, and their Indian friends aforesaid.
Article VII. Lest the firm peace and friendship now established should be interrupted by the misconduct of individuals, the United States and Six Nations agree, that for injuries done by individuals on either side, no private revenge or retaliation shall take place; but, instead thereof, complaint shall be made by the party injured, to the other: By the Six Nations or any of them, to the President of the United States, or the Superintendent by him appointed: and by the Superintendent, or other person appointed by the President, to the principal chiefs of the Six Nations, or of the nation to which the offender belongs: and such prudent measures shall then be pursued as shall be necessary to preserve our peace and friendship unbroken; until the legislature (or great council) of the United States shall make the equitable provision for the purpose.
Note: It is clearly understood by the parties to this treaty, that the annuity stipulated in the sixth article, is to be applied to the benefit of such of the Six Nations and of their Indian friends united with them as aforesaid, as do or shall reside within the boundaries of the United States: for the United States do not interfere with nations, tribes or families, of Indians elsewhere resident.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the said Timothy Pickering, and the sachems and war chiefs of the said Six Nations, have hereunto set their hands and seals.
Done at Canandaigua, in the State of New York, in the eleventh day of November, in the year one thousand seven hundred and ninety-four.
Timothy Pickering
Witnesses:
Israel Chapin
William Shepard, Jr.
James Smedley
John Wickham
Augustus Porter
James H. Garnsey
William Ewing
Israel Chapin, Jr.
Interpreters:
Horatio Jones
Joseph Smith
Jasper Parrish
Henry Abeele
Signed by fifty-nine Sachems and War Chiefs of the Six Nations
Canandaigua, New York — November 11, 1794
O-no-ye-ah-nee
Kon-ne-at-or-tee-ooh (Handsome Lake)
To-kenh-you-hau (Capt. Key)
O-nes-hau-ee
Hendrich Aupaumut
David Neessoonhuk
Kanatsoyh (Nicholas Kusik)
Soh-hon-te-o-quent
Oo-duht-sa-it
Ko-nooh-qung
Tos-song-gau-lo-luss
John Sken-en-do-a
O-ne-at-or-lee-ooh (Handsome Lake)
Kus-sau-wa-tau
E-yoo-ten-yoo-tau-ook
Kohn-ye-au-gong (Jake Stroud)
Sha~qui-ea-sa
Teer-oos (Capt. Printup)
Soos-ha-oo-wau
Henry Young Brant
Sonh-yoo-wau-na (Big Sky)
O-na-ah-hah
Hot-osh-a-henh
Kau-kon-da-nai-ya
Non-di-yau-ka
Kos-sish-to-wau
To-he-ong-go
Oo-jau-gent-a (Fish Carrier)
Oot-a-guas-so
Joo-non-dau-wa-onch
Ki-yau-ha-onh
Oo-tau-je-au-genh (Broken Axe)
Tau-ho-on-dos (Open the Way)
Twau-ke-wash-a
Se-quid-ong-guee (Little Beard)
Ko-djeoto (Half Town)
Ken-jau-au-gus (Stinking Fish)
Soo-noh-qua-kau
Twen-ni-ya-na
Jish-kaa-ga (Green Grasshopper, Little Billy)
Tug-geh-shot-ta
Teh-ong-ya-gau-na
Teh-ong-yoo-wush
Kon-ne-yoo-we-sot
Ti-oo-quot-ta-kau-na (Woods on Fire)
Ta-oun-dau-deesh
Ho-na-ya-wus (Farmer’s Brother)
Sog-goo-ya-waut-hau (Red Jacket)
Kon-yoo-tai-yoo
Sauh-ta-ka-ong-yees (Two Skies of Length)
Oun-na-shatta-kau
Ka-ung-ya-neh-quee
Soo-a-yoo-wau
Kau-je-a-ga-onh (Heap of Dogs)
Soo~nooh-shoo-wau
Tha-og-wau-ni-as
Soo-nong-joo-wau
Ki-ant-whau-ka (Corn Planter)
Kau-neh-shong-goo
Transcript PDF
This transcript was sourced from:
https://www.onondaganation.org/government/the-canandaigua-treaty-of-1794/
Tabulated Statement of Household Expenses
This manuscript, in the handwriting of George Washington, documents the household expenses from May 24 to August 24, 1789, in New York City at the start of his first term as President of the United States. Included in the document are expenses for several "Negro servants" - including enslaved seventeen-year-old Ona Judge.
Tabulated Statement of Household Expenses, 1789
George Washington Relics, New York State Library
Transcript PDF
This document has been transcribed to preserve its original formatting. Due to formatting limitations, it cannot be displayed directly on our website. However, it is available for download as a PDF for your convenience.
» Download George Washington's Tabulated Statement of Household Expenses (PDF)
NYS 250th Commemoration Field Guide
In 2026, the United States will mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence—a milestone in the nation’s founding and a pivotal chapter in world history. New York played a critical role in both the Revolutionary Era and the centuries that followed. To support meaningful and well-coordinated commemorations across the state, the Association of Public Historians of New York State (APHNYS), in partnership with the Office of State History at the New York State Museum, has created the New York State 250th Commemoration Field Guide. This guide offers themes, ideas, and practical information to assist local and regional planners in honoring this historic anniversary.
The NYS 250th Commemoration Field Guide (PDF)
Stop by and meet Lauren Lyons, Chartering Coordinator and Assistant to the State Historian at the New York State Museum, for an interactive tabling experience celebrating the diverse world of New York’s museums and historic sites! Learn how museums across the state are officially chartered and discover some of the most unique and surprising institutions in every region.
Love the Cohoes Mastodon? Fascinated by the Haudenosaunee Longhouse? Based on your favorite New York State Museum exhibits, Lauren will help you discover museums and historic sites across the state that connect with your interests. Plus, plan your very own museum road trip—whether it’s a quick local getaway or a statewide journey of discovery!
Perfect for museum lovers, curious travelers, and anyone eager to explore the stories of New York State.
Join us for a special storytime with author Anne Clothier as she reads from her brand-new children’s book, Overhearing History: The First in the Revolutionary Saratoga Story Series. This engaging tale follows 12-year-old Nathaniel, a young boy growing up in the Saratoga District in 1775, as he navigates the rising tensions of a community on the brink of revolution. Through the voices he overhears and the conversations unfolding around him, Nathaniel—and the reader—begin to consider the many perspectives and complexities of life during the American Revolution.
Illustrated by Alex Portal and published with support from Saratoga County and the Campaign for Saratoga250 Inc., this thought-provoking story explores themes of family, community, and the personal impact of historic change. Perfect for young readers and families, this program invites you to reflect on the past and its relevance today through the power of storytelling.
Curious about New York's past? Come uncover the stories behind the state's history— one document at a time! Join us every Thursday at 11:00 a.m. for "Ask an Archivist" at the New York Museum. Each session offers a peek into New York State’s rich and surprising history through carefully chosen original documents, photographs, and videos. An expert archivist will be on hand to share stories, answer your questions, and reveal how we uncover and preserve the past. You never know what fascinating piece of history you’ll discover!
Outside the Box: 20th Century Educational Media, Tools and Programs
Learn about the background material used for the Archive's summer 11th floor display!
Ever wonder how early sailors knew where they were going? Try your hand at this quick and interactive game! Match each historical navigation tool with its description and discover the everyday ingenuity aboard Revolutionary War gunboats.
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 Lafayette: A Hero’s Return, a new documentary from WCNY that explores the Marquis de Lafayette’s enduring legacy in both New York and American history. It traces his deep-rooted commitments to freedom, self-governance, and commerce, and examines the significance of his 1824–25 tour through the lens of a divided post-war nation, drawing powerful parallels to the present day.
At the heart of the story is Lafayette’s grand farewell tour of 1824–1825, when—at Congress’s invitation—he traveled through all 24 states of the young republic. His journey culminated with poignant visits to Buffalo, Rochester, Auburn, Albany, and Syracuse, before heading to Boston to lay the cornerstone of the Bunker Hill Monument.
Don't miss this opportunity to explore a defining chapter in our shared history—and the enduring power of one man's vision for liberty and unity.
George Washington: An American Paradox
For nearly 250 years, George Washington has stood as a symbol of American independence and democratic ideals. Revered as the commander who led the Continental Army to victory and as the nation’s first president, his leadership helped shape the foundation of the United States. Yet a fuller view of his legacy reveals profound contradictions. Washington enslaved hundreds of people at Mount Vernon, authorized the devastating Sullivan Campaign against Indigenous nations, signed laws that reinforced slavery, like the Fugitive Slave Act, and never publicly condemned the institution of slavery, even as some contemporaries, like Benjamin Franklin, eventually did. Confronting these truths does not erase his accomplishments but invites a more honest and inclusive understanding of the past.
A complete perspective on George Washington must include both his monumental contributions to the founding of the United States and the grave harms committed under his command. Washington played a pivotal role in establishing the nation, yet his story also reflects the deep tensions between the ideals of liberty and the entrenched systems of white supremacy, wealth, and power in early America.
As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of its independence in 2026, the New York State Museum invites the public to critically engage with the complexities of the nation’s founding through its upcoming exhibition Revolutionary New York. The exhibition will feature stories and artifacts that illuminate New York’s pivotal role in the American Revolution, and explore how African Americans, Indigenous groups, women, and other marginalized groups experienced, influenced, and were affected by the Revolutionary struggle. It will also examine how the era’s promises of liberty and freedom fueled later movements for equality in the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries.
Exhibition Resources
View accessible transcriptions of the original 18th-century documents on display in this exhibit, including Washington's Farewell Address and an anti-slavery petition drafted by Benjamin Franklin.
Polly Cooper Shawl
This elegant shawl is understood to be a gift from Martha Washington to Polly Cooper according to Oneida oral tradition. On loan from the descendants and family of Chapman Scanandoah, and on display in a museum for the first time in years, the shawl honors Polly Cooper’s vital contributions to the American cause during the Revolutionary War, when she aided George Washington’s troops at Valley Forge with food, medicine, and care.
Join Dr. Jeremy Kirchman, NYSM Curator of Birds and Mammals, for a gallery tour of Birds of New York with a special focus on spring migration. Discover how and why birds navigate to and through New York. Dr. Kirchman will guide you through the exhibit’s habitat groups, highlighting the remarkable journeys and diverse ecologies of migratory bird species. The tour concludes with time for Q&A, so come with your birding questions!
The Office of Cultural Education Launches New Video Series: Look at This!
The New York State Office of Cultural Education is excited to announce the launch of a new video series, “Look at This!”—a lively, behind-the-scenes journey that pulls back the curtain to show viewers the often unseen quirky, captivating, and surprising collections housed in the state’s cultural institutions.
Created to engage audiences of all ages, “Look at This!” spotlights the unexpected and conversation-starting objects from the extensive holdings of the New York State Museum, Library, and Archives. Season one kicks off with eleven episodes featuring the Museum’s most curious artifacts—from oddball inventions such as dog treadmills and egg vending machines to endearing relics like the Beech-Nut Circus Bus. Each video is roughly two minutes long and presented with nostalgia, historical insight, and a sense of wonder.
Interim Deputy Commissioner for Cultural Education Michael Mastroianni said, “This series is all about sharing the joy and wonder of discovery. We have millions of artifacts, specimens, and items in our possession and these collections belong to all New Yorkers. ‘Look at This!’ offers a fun, accessible way for everyone to explore some of the State’s greatest treasures. We understand that not everyone can visit the Museum in person, so this allows us to bring the Museum to them in a fresh and engaging new way through the power of social media.”
Featured in the first season is Senior Historian Steve Loughman, who brings his wit, passion, and deep knowledge to all eleven episodes. Loughman said, “I always tell our guests that history is full of surprises — and this series proves it. These artifacts are not just informative; they’re downright fun and it’s a privilege to be able to share them with a new audience. I think people will see history and the New York State Museum in a whole new way.”
The first three episodes can be found on the New York State Museum’s YouTube channel and social media accounts. New episodes will premiere every other Wednesday.
This is just the beginning — future seasons and spin-off series will expand beyond the Museum to showcase the expertise and behind-the-scenes stories of the New York State Library and Archives. From rare books and hidden documents to the dedicated professionals who preserve and interpret them, viewers will gain a unique and engaging glimpse into the heart of New York’s cultural heritage.
Don’t miss out — subscribe to the State Museum’s YouTube channel today and get ready to Look at This!
About the Cultural Education Center
Established in 1836, the New York State Museum is the oldest and largest public museum in the United States. Home to leading scientists, historians, archeologists, and anthropologists, its collections represent the State’s rich cultural and natural heritage from the past and present, including a staggering 20+ million artifacts spanning 1.1 billion years ago to today. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website.
The New York State Library is part of the Office of Cultural Education within the New York State Education Department. Visit the New York State Library website for a complete list of upcoming programs. To receive news, resources, and other updates, please subscribe to the quarterly newsletter.
The New York State Archives holds many of the oldest and most important archival treasures in the nation. The Archives preserves and makes accessible over 250 million records of New York’s State and colonial governments dating from 1630 to the present. The State Archives provides free access to photographs, artifacts, documents, manuscripts, and other materials that tell the story of New York’s history via its Digital Collections on the Archives website.
The Archives Partnership Trust was founded in 1992 to build an endowment and provide project support to enhance humanities programs, increase access to these outstanding treasures, and continue the preservation of New York's historical records. Since its founding, the Partnership Trust, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has supported exceptional projects and programs. These include the Research Residency Program, the Student Research Awards Program, history conferences, special exhibitions, public education programs, book signings and lectures, publications, teacher training institutes, preservation projects, and more.
The State Museum, State Library, and State Archives are programs of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or by visiting the Office of Cultural Education website.
(518) 474-1201
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www.nysed.gov
Jennifer Saunders Appointed Director of New York State Museum
Saunders Becomes First Woman to Lead New York State Museum
The New York State Board of Regents and State Education Department Commissioner Dr. Betty A. Rosa today announced the appointment of Jennifer Saunders as Director of the New York State Museum, following a highly competitive national search. Ms. Saunders makes history as the first woman to lead the Museum in its nearly 200-year existence. A nationally respected museum leader, she brings more than two decades of experience guiding cultural institutions through transformational change to best serve a modern audience, with a distinguished record of institutional transformation, enhancing public engagement, promoting inclusive historical narratives, and advancing institutional sustainability.
Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young Jr. said, “Jennifer Saunders brings not only an impressive record of organizational leadership and public service, but also a deep understanding of how museums can foster civic dialogue, identity, and lifelong learning. We look forward to working with her to advance the Museum's role as a vital contributor to New York’s educational landscape."
Commissioner Dr. Betty A. Rosa said, "Jennifer Saunders is a visionary leader whose commitment to inclusive storytelling, educational innovation, and community engagement aligns powerfully with the mission of the New York State Museum. Her experience leading state agencies and collaborating with Indigenous nations and educators will ensure the Museum continues to serve as a dynamic cultural and educational resource for all New Yorkers."
Since 2011, Saunders has served as Director of the Washington State Historical Society and the Washington State History Museum, overseeing statewide programs and leading major capital, educational, and curatorial initiatives. Under her leadership, the Museum underwent a sweeping reimagining of its core exhibitions, including transformation of the Great Hall of Washington History and the creation of multiple award-winning special exhibitions. Most notably, she spearheaded This is Native Land, a new permanent exhibition developed in partnership with Indigenous curators that centers Native sovereignty and lived experience, opening this fall.
During her tenure, Saunders doubled the organization’s operating budget, expanded statewide services, and launched impactful public programs such as Black History in Washington—a multi-platform initiative resulting in curriculum-aligned resources, a digital app, and a permanent monument to early Black Pacific Northwest settler George Bush on the Washington State Capitol Campus.
Saunders also led a $10 million statewide capital grant program and enhanced infrastructure for local museums and heritage organizations, establishing new funding pathways and awards that elevated excellence in community-based history. Her leadership and expertise have also positioned her as a key voice within the American Association for State and Local History (AASLH), where she has served on the Governing Council and will co-chair the 2026 national conference. In addition, she serves as an active accreditation peer reviewer for the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), underscoring her commitment to advancing best practices and professional standards across the museum field.
Earlier in her career, Saunders served as Executive Director of the Harbor History Museum in Gig Harbor, Washington, where she successfully led an $11.7 million capital campaign and oversaw the construction of a new museum facility. Under her leadership, the museum’s operating budget more than tripled, enabling expanded public access, enhanced programming, and a strengthened community presence. She began her professional journey at the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, where she developed a strong foundation in nonprofit strategy, grantmaking, and philanthropic leadership.
Saunders holds an M.Phil in Politics from the University of Oxford, where she studied as a British Marshall Scholar, and a B.A. in Political Science and Economics from Wellesley College.
Dr. Brent D. Glass, Director Emeritus of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History and Search Committee Chair said, "Jennifer Saunders emerged as the clear choice to lead the New York State Museum into its next chapter. She combines strategic vision with hands-on experience in collections, education, and public engagement. Her leadership will help to further position the Museum as a national model of relevance, inclusivity, and innovation."
Sarah Van Anden, Executive Director of the Museum Association of New York said, “Jennifer Saunders brings a powerful blend of experience, vision, and collaboration to this critical role. Her commitment to elevating regional heritage, investing in museum infrastructure, and centering historically excluded voices reflects the values shared by museums across New York State. We are excited to welcome her into this leadership position and look forward to working with her to advance the museum field statewide.”
Incoming Museum Director, Jennifer Saunders said, "It is an extraordinary honor to serve as the next Director of the New York State Museum. I am inspired by its rich collections, dedicated staff, and powerful mission to interpret the state's incredible history. I look forward to deepening connections with New Yorkers from all regions and backgrounds, and working together to ensure the Museum is a welcoming, vibrant place of learning, dialogue, and discovery."
Saunders will begin her tenure as Director in the fall. Dr. Glass, who chaired the national search, will remain engaged with the Museum in an advisory capacity to support a smooth leadership transition.
About the New York State Museum
Established in 1836, the New York State Museum is the oldest and largest public museum in the United States. Home to leading scientists, historians, archeologists, and anthropologists, its collections represent the State’s rich cultural and natural heritage from the past and present, including a staggering 20+ million artifacts spanning 1.1 billion years ago to today. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website and subscribe to our newsletter.
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(518) 474-1201
Press@nysed.gov
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Join Dr. Michael Lucas, Curator of Historical Archaeology at the New York State Museum, for a gallery tour of The Gunboat at Ground Zero: A Revolutionary War Mystery, presented in the South Lobby where the vessel is currently being reconstructed before your eyes.
Discovered beneath the World Trade Center site in 2010, this 18th-century wooden gunboat lay hidden for over two centuries, preserved beneath layers of Manhattan’s historic landfill. Believed to have been built near Philadelphia in the early 1770s, possibly captured by the British, and eventually abandoned along the Hudson River, the ship’s journey remains a captivating enigma.
Dr. Lucas will guide visitors through the ship’s remarkable excavation, the historical clues uncovered during research, and the ongoing conservation efforts that are breathing new life into this rare maritime relic. Don’t miss this chance to witness archaeology in action and learn how a forgotten gunboat helps illuminate the Revolutionary era and its enduring legacy.
Join Archivist Monica Gray for a fun and fascinating look at the history of New York State Regents Exams. Discover how student assessments have evolved over the decades—and try your hand at real exam questions from the past.
Are you smarter than a 9th grader? Whether you're a history buff, trivia fan, or just curious, this interactive experience will have you seeing school exams in a whole new light!
Hispanic Heritage Resources
Join us as we celebrate Hispanic heritage and honor the diverse histories, cultures, achievements, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities and individuals. This page offers a variety of resources, including materials for educators, recorded lectures, and program opportunities at the New York State Museum and throughout the state.
National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 to October 15. Its origin dates back to 1968 when it was initially established as Hispanic Heritage Week by President Lyndon B. Johnson. Later, in 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded it to a monthlong celebration. This month of special recognition coincides with the independence days of several Latin American countries. September 15 marks the anniversary of independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively.
Statewide Hispanic Heritage Month Events
New York State Hispanic Heritage Month Events
Discover Hispanic Heritage History Events taking place at museums and historical societies across New York State.
Arts, Culture, and Ongoing Exhibits
In the Spotlight: Louis Agassiz Fuertes
Louis Agassiz Fuertes (1874–1927) was an ornithologist, artist, and illustrator of Puerto Rican heritage who, in 1904, was commissioned by then New York State Museum Director, John Mason Clarke, to provide illustrations for an extensive research study on the state's bird species. Fuertes's collaboration with Elon Howard Eaton, who conducted the extensive research and wrote the text, resulted in the two-volume publication, Birds of New York.
Discover more about how Fuertes's illustrative work not only contributed to the scientific community but also helped inspire a wider interest in bird and nature conservation throughout New York.
Edward Chavez (1917–1995)
Abstraction, n.d.
Bronze
NYSM, Historic Woodstock Art Colony: Arthur A. Anderson Collection
Edward Chavez
Born in New Mexico and descended from Spanish settlers, Edward Chavez spent most of his career based in Woodstock, New York. His upbringing in the West informed his art, however, and he returned often over the course of his life. He produced murals, easel paintings, prints, sculpture, and jewelry, much of which was inspired by his travels. During the Depression he painted murals for federal programs in Nebraska, Colorado, and Texas in his own twist on a social realist style. After WWII, he embraced a more abstract approach and also began to work in sculpture. Abstraction is one of his subtly textured non-representational bronzes based on precariously balanced geometric forms.
Ongoing Exhibition: The Gutierrez Barber Shop
In 2005, the NYSM acquired the fixtures and contents of the Gutierrez Barbershop to create this ongoing exhibition in New York Metropolis Hall. Established in New York City in 1929 by Antonio Gutierrez who emigrated from Spain, the barbershop served a vital role as a place where where people of diverse backgrounds could feel a sense of belonging.
Highlights from the Collection
The History and Historic Archaeology collections at the New York State Museum document New York’s diverse history from the 17th century through the present day. The objects below are a few examples that help tell the histories of those with Hispanic and/or Latino ancestry in New York. View all »
Celebrate in Color!
Download and decorate two special coloring sheets—one in English and one in Spanish—designed to honor this vibrant cultural celebration.
Video Presentations & CTLE
Pedro A. Regalado is Assistant Professor of History at Stanford University where he researches and teaches the history of race, immigration, planning, and capitalism in urban America. His first book, Nueva York: Making the Modern City, is a history of New York City’s Latinx community during the 20th century, from the “pioneers” who arrived after World War I to the panoply of Latinx people who rebuilt the city in the wake of the 1975 fiscal crisis. Across a range of topics, from urban renewal to the rise of Latinx bankers, US military operations in Central America to drug workers who repurposed tenement buildings, Nueva York demonstrates how the democratic ideals of the city hinged, in large part, on the experiences of Latinx New Yorkers.
CTLE Credit (1.5 hour): Link to Online Form for All That Has Disappeared
New York City’s Latinx small-business owners were frequent victims of urban renewal “slum clearance” during the 1950s. By the next decade, they wielded the federal War on Poverty to reimagine the relationship between government and Latinx New Yorkers, brokering between them to address hunger, public health, and the plight of credit-starved entrepreneurs. This lecture explores the history of Gotham’s Latinx storefronts—especially bodegas—during this transition. It reveals what their overlooked experiences teach us about the power of place in shaping community. It also offers new insights into how Latinx business owners helped to transform the trajectory of postwar New York.
CTLE Credit (1 hour): Link to Online Form for The Bodega, with Historian Pedro A. Regalado
Additional Resources from the Office of Cultural Education
A New York Minute in History Podcast: Las Villas
Learn about an enclave of restaurants, bars, and resorts that catered to predominately Latin American clientele near the Catskill Mountains. As more and more Latinos immigrated to New York City for work, they began to look to places outside the city for recreation and to connect with other Spanish-speaking tourists. By the mid-1950s there were 50 resorts in the Plattekill area that focused on Spanish-speaking visitors.
New York State Archives
Hispanic history and culture is present throughout the year in the thousands of documents available through ConsidertheSourceNY.org. However, we invite you to visit the Archive's Hispanic Heritage page for direct access to highlighted resources centering the history of Hispanic Americans in New York State.
Additionally, this September the New York State Archives’ presents, Lights, Camera, Action.
The display focuses on the work and achievements of Hispanic American dancers, actors, filmmakers and photographers. Featured records include images from New York City based companies Ballet Hispánico and Soul and Latin Theater; New York State Motion Picture Division filmscripts; and reproductions of photographs featured in the 1986 New York State Museum exhibition, New Traditions: Thirteen Hispanic Photographers. Material will be on display in the 11th floor lobby of the Cultural Education Center through the end of the month.
New York State Library: Talking Book and Braille Library
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, we have curated a selection of braille and audiobooks. Our materials are available to anyone who has a print-reading impairment due to a visual, physical, or reading disability. With BARD, Braille and Audio Reading Download, readers may instantly download books in audio or digital braille to any compatible phone or device. Our large collection includes the latest bestsellers and award winners, along with books and magazines for all ages in over 50 languages. There is never a cost for our personalized service and there are no waitlists or late fees. Help us spread the word to all who are eligible. So that all may read!
PBS Learning Media
Access the Hispanic Culture & History folder featuring curated classroom resources from PBS LearningMedia. These multimedia support materials teacher-created, standards aligned, and free for use with K-12 learning environments.
New Exhibition Feature: Sadako’s Crane
On view in the World Trade Center: Rescue, Recovery, Response Gallery
Two-year old Sadako Sasaki lived with her mother and grandmother in Hiroshima, Japan. On August 6, 1945, the family was approximately one mile from ground zero when the United States dropped the first atomic bomb. Sadako and her mother survived the bombing, but by 1955, Sadako was diagnosed with leukemia. She was hospitalized at a Red Cross hospital in Hiroshima on February 21, 1955.
In August, Sadako learned of a Japanese legend that if a person folded 1,000 origami cranes, the folder would be granted one wish. She set about folding the intricate paper birds, completing more than 1,300 before her death at the age of 12 on October 25, 1955. This tiny origami crane was created by Sadako Sasaki using the red wrapper of a methotrexate medicine container donated from the United States in March 1955.
In 2007, the crane was donated by the Sasaki family to the families of victims of the September 11, 2001, attacks and the 9/11 Tribute Museum, where it was on display until the museum’s closure in 2022 during the COVID 19 pandemic. The crane was among the many items transferred to the collections of the New York State Museum for safekeeping after Tribute’s closure.
Crane Conservation
Although the exhibition "Sadako's Crane" will remain open indefinitely, in an effort to limit light exposure, the original 1955 crane created by Sadako will only be on view from September 10 to October 6, 2024, after which the exhibit will feature a reproduction crane. Each September, the original crane will be placed back on view for a limited time in honor of the 9/11 anniversary.
Related Information:
The World Trade Center: Rescue, Recovery, Response
This exhibition details the history of the World Trade Center, the September 11 attacks, the rescue efforts, the evidence recovery operation at the Fresh Kills facility, and the public response to the September 11th events. The exhibition includes many objects, images, videos, and interactive stations documenting this tragic chapter in New York and America's history.
Have you ever seen a nearly two-foot-long walking stick? Or a beetle as large as the palm of your hand? Did you know that an adult insect's life span can be as short as twenty minutes or as long as 50 years? Join New York State Entomologist, Dr. Timothy McCabe, as he reveals more incredible insects and fun facts on a tour of the New York State Museum’s Entomology collection.
Visitors who have received registration confirmation should meet in the Museum Lobby prior to the start of the tour.
Registration:
Our apologies, but registration for this program is now closed!
State Museum Hosts Students From the City of Albany’s Light Summer Youth Employment Program and Girls Inc. Eureka!
Local Youth to Participate in Staff-Led Opportunities, Intensive Learning, and Paid Work Experiences Through Hands-On State Museum Program
The New York State Museum (NYSM) is pleased to celebrate the success of its collaboration with the City of Albany’s LIGHT Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) and Girls Inc. Eureka! in a landmark year for its summer programming. The Museum proudly expanded its initiative to include Girls Inc. Eureka!, which provided young women with immersive STEM experiences. Over the course of the four-week program, students from each organization made a significant impact by engaging with nearly 2,000 Museum patrons through their public programming initiatives.
Eight local students, ages 14 to 18, participated in the program, gaining invaluable work experience across various fields, including science, history, and the arts. This enriching experience not only fostered career exploration but also offered compensated employment at the New York State Museum, ensuring a rewarding and educational journey for all involved.
Throughout the summer, students had the unique opportunity to work directly with Museum professionals—scientists, historians, educators, archivists, librarians, and exhibit planners. Guided by these experts, the students utilized the Museum’s collections and research materials from the New York State Library and Archives to craft their own public programming experiences, greatly enhancing the visitor experience.
The program concluded on August 9th, featuring seven students from the City of Albany’s LIGHT Summer Youth Employment Program and one from the Girls Inc. Eureka! Program. Funded by the City of Albany, SYEP students earned $15.00 per hour for 20 hours a week, adding an element of financial support to their educational experience.
New York State Museum Director of Education Kathryn Weller said, “We are thrilled to support the City of Albany’s LIGHT Summer Youth Employment Program and the Girls Inc. Eureka! Programs. The Summer Youth Employment Program offers a unique opportunity to introduce local students to the many professional opportunities and career paths within the New York State Museum, Library, and Archives. We love the enthusiasm and creativity our SYEP students bring to developing public programs for our visitors. We’re excited to see what the future holds for these talented students and are happy to provide a meaningful workplace experience that we hope inspires them in their future careers.”
City of Albany Department of Recreation Youth & Workforce Services Commissioner Jonathan Jones said, “The City of Albany's SYEP is incredibly fortunate to have a partnering worksite like the NYS Museum. The exposure to STEM and the Arts through the work at the Museum allows our youth employees to grow their knowledge in a variety of areas while developing their communication and problem-solving skills."
Summer Youth Employment Student Vanelia Anguilet said, “What I really enjoy here at the museum are the New York minerals; they are so majestic to see. I also participate in the Summer Youth Employment Program to possess and develop more skills like public speaking or helping people in difficulty and more. I always do this, even at school, when I have the chance. I hope to be someone in the future, a good person, to find the career that fits my personality and that will help me be myself so that I can give people the best of me.”
Vanelia graduated this year from the City School District of Albany. She made the Principal’s List for Innovation Academy and plans to attend Hudson Valley Community College in the Fall.
Throughout the summer, Museum visitors enjoyed various educational and hands-on programming created by the dedicated students from the City of Albany’s LIGHT Summer Youth Employment and Girls Inc. Eureka! Programs. These engaging, pop-up-style activities sparked creativity and curiosity, offering fresh experiences with every visit.
The City of Albany’s LIGHT Summer Youth Employment Program(link is external) is a 30+ year-old program that provides summer employment for youth between the ages of 14-18. LIGHT stands for Learning Initiatives and Gaining Headway Together, which symbolizes the program curriculum used in Albany for five weeks each summer. The City of Albany’s LIGHT program introduces youth to the labor market by helping them acquire skills and insight with work experience that can be used to improve school performance and become responsible adults.
Girls Inc. Eureka! is a free and unique five-year program that introduces girls to STEM, personal development, sports, mentorship, and career exploration.
About the Cultural Education Center
The State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website.
The New York State Library is part of the Office of Cultural Education within the New York State Education Department. Visit the New York State Library website for a complete list of upcoming programs. To receive news, resources, and other updates, please subscribe to the quarterly newsletter.
The New York State Archives holds many of the oldest and most important archival treasures in the nation. The Archives preserves and makes accessible over 250 million records of New York’s State and colonial governments dating from 1630 to the present. The State Archives provides free access to photographs, artifacts, documents, manuscripts, and other materials that tell the story of New York’s history via its Digital Collections on the Archives website.
The Archives Partnership Trust was founded in 1992 to build an endowment and provide project support to enhance humanities programs, increase access to these outstanding treasures, and continue the preservation of New York's historical records. Since its founding, the Partnership Trust, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has supported exceptional projects and programs. These include the Research Residency Program, the Student Research Awards Program, history conferences, special exhibitions, public education programs, book signings and lectures, publications, teacher training institutes, preservation projects, and more.
The State Museum, State Library, and State Archives are programs of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or by visiting the Office of Cultural Education website.
Phone: (518) 474-1201
For More Information Contact:
Dora Ricci
Press@nysed.gov
www.nysed.gov
State Education Department Commemorates Black History Month With Inspiring Exhibitions, Events, and Educational Programs
Resources, Online and In-Person Programming, and Public Broadcasting Events Available Throughout February Across the State
The Moral Arc Toward Freedom: Lincoln, King, and the Emancipation Proclamation Special Exhibition Opens February 13
In honor of Black History Month, the New York State Education Department (NYSED) proudly recognizes the profound history, culture, and invaluable contributions of African Americans to the State and nation. Through February, special exhibitions, educational resources, and compelling in-person and online programs will be available, highlighting the significance of Black history in New York State. The monthlong celebration underscores the value of fostering unity and solidarity among diverse cultural identities and highlights the role of education as a unifying force that bridges these varied experiences.
Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr. said, “The celebration of Black History Month is more than just about commemorating the significant contributions of people of African descent to American history and culture. It provides an opportunity to recognize and honor the achievements of a people who have made a tremendous impact on our society and have often been overlooked or undervalued. By learning about their struggles and triumphs, we can better understand our shared history and work towards a more inclusive and equitable future. The Board of Regents and the New York State Education Department remain committed to igniting and inspiring teaching and learning to build a culture and society based on a foundation of access, opportunity, trust, and respect for all New Yorkers.”
State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, “Black History Month is a tribute to those who came before us in the relentless pursuit of freedom, justice, and equality while advocating for a better future and more inclusive society. As we participate in this month’s events and programs, let us not only celebrate the accomplishments, pride, courage, and resilience that define the Black experience but also strive for a future where the principles of liberty, inclusivity, and equity are universally embraced.”
New York State Museum:
- A comprehensive list of in-person and virtual Black History Month programs happening across the state is available on the Museum’s website.
- The Museum, in partnership with the State Library and State Archives, will feature the centerpiece of this year’s Black History Month observance with a special exhibition, The Moral Arc Toward Freedom: Lincoln, King, and the Emancipation Proclamation. This exhibition opens Tuesday, February 13, goes through Sunday, March 3, and focuses on the historical connections between President Abraham Lincoln, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and the Emancipation Proclamation. It includes two historic documents: President Abraham Lincoln’s 1862 Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation and select pages from a speech Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered in New York City in September 1962 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation. This draft of the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation is the only surviving version of the document in Lincoln’s handwriting.
- To mark the opening of The Moral Arc Toward Freedom: Lincoln, King, and the Emancipation Proclamation Exhibition, a special program, A Conversation with New York State Poet Patricia Spears Jones, Historian Dr. Jennifer Burns, and New York State Museum Curator Dr. Jennifer Lemak, will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 15, 2024, in the Huxley Theater.
- The spirit and music of the Jazz Era will be celebrated with Jazz in the Galleries featuring live performances from Project H Jazz Quartet and the musical duo Lucia and Levi from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, February 22, in the Museum’s Metropolis Hall. This program is sponsored by The Albany Musicians Association and can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages.
- For more information on Black History-related programming provided by the New York State Museum on how artifacts, either archaeological or historical, help document the history of Black New Yorkers from the colonial period to the modern age, visit the Museum’s website.
New York State Library:
- During February, on the 7th floor of the New York State Library, a special exhibit, Understanding Lincoln through Primary Source Documents, will feature cases with selected books and primary source documents from the Library’s collections on President Abraham Lincoln and the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation. Topics of the exhibit will include Lincoln’s life, the writing of the proclamation, how the State Library came to have the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, and Lincoln’s death.
- A webinar entitled “Lincoln, the Founding, and an America Worth Saving,” with Dr. Lucas Morel of Washington and Lee University, will be held from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, February 15, 2024. To learn more about the program and how to register, visit the New York State Library website.
- A webinar entitled “A Dreamer with A Tiny Spark”: E. J. Josey Transforms the Modern Library Profession, with Dr. Renate, Chancellor of Syracuse University, will be held from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, February 21, 2024. To learn more about the program and how to register, visit the New York State Library website.
New York State Archives Partnership Trust/New York State Archives:
- ConsidertheSourceNY.org Teaching with Historical Records(link is external) is available for use during Black History Month and beyond. The continuously expanding collection of document-based activities is developed by the New York State Archives Partnership Trust and teachers around the state. This resource is available to New York State educators with ready-to-use archival resources and learning activities aligned with the New York State Learning Standards. It contains original New York State Archives primary sources and learning activities along with many educational materials.
- During February, on the 11th floor lobby of the Cultural Education Center, a special exhibit, Before Brown: Desegregating New York’s Public Schools, will highlight the early mid-20th century school segregation battles in Hempstead and Hillburn that were taken on by the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, a civil rights firm founded by Thurgood Marshall. Education resources are available on ConsidertheSourceNY.org.
New York State Public Broadcasting:
- Learn more about Black culture and history in New York State and beyond with PBS Learning Media. A variety of multimedia support materials are available for the classroom suited for grades PK–12. To learn more about these resources, visit the PBS website.
Offices of P12 and Cultural Education:
- Educators are invited to utilize the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation and the 1962 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Civil War Centennial speech within classroom studies. Use these remarkable primary sources to engage students and uplift their voice through project-based learning. Then, share student work with us via social media using the hashtags #BlackHistoryNY and #MyHistoryMyFuture. A full suite of classroom materials is available on the New York State Library website..
Social Media:
- #BlackHistoryNY: Throughout the month, the State Education Department will feature information on Black History on the Department’s Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn accounts.
- #MyHistoryMyFuture: The State Education Department and Education Trust—New York are highlighting students’ work and reflections on the impacts of history and its relevance to their generation. Through the #MyHistoryMyFuture social media campaign, the Department intends to amplify the voices of young people. We encourage students to not only reflect on the past but to be proud of where they come from and take action to make their schools, communities, and the world a better place for future generations.
- #StudentsExhibitingMLK and #NYSMLK: Together with the New York State Office of General Services, the New York State Education Department is highlighting artwork by students from across New York that honors Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s messages of equality, love, and peace. This campaign may be viewed on the Department’s social media accounts. View the NYS Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Student Art & Essay Exhibit online or in person on the Empire State Plaza North Concourse in Albany.
Phone: (518) 474-1201
For More Information Contact:
Dora Ricci
Press@nysed.gov
www.nysed.gov
New York State Museum Celebrates Women’s History Month by Honoring Women’s Contributions to State History With Special Programs, Events, and Exhibits
Family History Day to be Held on Sunday, March 10
To commemorate Women’s History Month, the New York State Museum (NYSM) will honor the significant roles of women in New York State history. Throughout March, there will be numerous special programs, events, educational resources, and exhibits to honor and celebrate the diverse achievements of women, both past and present. From engaging in-person experiences to helpful online resources, visitors of all ages are invited to learn about the pivotal role women have played in shaping our State heritage.
Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr. said, "Throughout the history of the United States, women and girls have made significant contributions despite facing discrimination and adversity. During Women's History Month, we recognize the brave women who fought for and earned the right to vote, advocated against injustice, broke numerous barriers, and expanded opportunities for all women and girls. Our history is also filled with inspiring examples of women who have paved the way in the recent and distant past, working tirelessly to open doors of opportunity for everyone."
State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa said, “Women's History Month is an opportunity to celebrate the insurmountable spirit, resilience, and invaluable contributions of women throughout history, while also serving as an inspiration to the women of today to script their own narrative in the ongoing story of women’s history. This rich selection of important programs and events serve as a platform to foster a society that celebrates the achievements of women, highlights their diverse stories, and paves the way for a future where every woman’s potential is realized and celebrated.”
In recognition of Women’s History Month, learn more about these significant contributions by exploring the following educational resources and programs for classroom teachers, educators, and the public from the State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education’s collections, exhibits, and research.
New York State Museum:
- A comprehensive list of in-person and virtual Women's History Month programs happening across the state is available on the Museum’s website.
- The Museum will host Women’s History Month Family History Day on Sunday, March 10, 2024, from 12 p.m. until 3 p.m. This event, for all ages, is an opportunity to celebrate the dynamic role women play in New York’s history. There will be hands-on history activities, curator-led exhibit tours, and a short-film series, Change-Makers Along the Women’s Rights Corridor, Virtual Video Visits, presented by 1st Amendment-1st Vote, Incorporated at 2 p.m. in the Huxley Theater.
- The New York State Museum presents its annual Women of Science program. Learn more about these talented current and past scientists and their research through online presentations.
- As an approved provider of Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLE), the New York State Museum is offering Women's History Month Online CTLE Credits for educators this month. Explore the 360 Gallery Tour of the NYSM's exhibition, Votes for Women: Celebrating New York’s Suffrage Centennial, and earn one CTLE credit hour.
New York State Library:
- A webinar entitled, “Fearless Women: Feminist Patriots from Abigail Adams to Beyoncé,” with Dr. Elizabeth Cobbs, historian, novelist, and documentary filmmaker, will be held from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, March 5, 2024. To learn more about the program and how to register, visit the New York State Library’s calendar of events.
- A webinar entitled, “Eleanor Roosevelt After 1945,” with Dr. Sandra Opdycke, historian, and author, will be held from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Wednesday, March 20, 2024. To learn more about the program and how to register, visit the New York State Library’s calendar of events.
- A webinar entitled, “Celebrating the 19th Amendment: Women's Suffrage and Anti-Suffrage Documents for Educators,” with Marisa Gitto, New York State Library Senior Reference Librarian, will be held from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Monday, March 25, 2024. To learn more about the program and how to register, visit the New York State Library’s calendar of events.
New York State Archives/ New York State Archives Partnership Trust:
- Tune in on Tuesday, March 12, at 12:30 p.m. for A Woman’s Place: The History of the New York State Women’s Division, A New York Archives Magazine Online Speaker Series Program. Register for the free Zoom program on the Archives Partnership Trust website. The New York State Archives presents, “A Woman’s Place: The History of the New York State Women’s Division.” This display highlights records created by the Women’s Division, a unit within the Executive Chamber that promoted equal status for women and worked with state government agencies on issues affecting women. The material highlighted during the Zoom program will be on display in the 11th floor lobby of the Cultural Education Center throughout March.
- During Women’s History Month, hundreds of ready-to-use primary sources and standards-aligned, teacher-created learning activities can be accessed on ConsidertheSourceNY.org. Historical records spanning from the Dutch colonial period through the preset day offer students an opportunity to practice their document-analysis skills and discover the role of women in New York State history.
New York State Public Broadcasting:
- Toolkits for the classroom. Learn more about Women’s History Month with these free, ready-to-use multimedia resources for the classroom. This folder features videos, lesson plans, media galleries, and more, all focused on Women’s History and culture. All of these resources are educator-created and standards-aligned from PBS stations.
The State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website.
The New York State Library is part of the Office of Cultural Education within the New York State Education Department. Visit the New York State Library website for a complete list of upcoming programs. To receive news, resources, and other updates, please subscribe to the quarterly newsletter.
The New York State Archives holds many of the oldest and most important archival treasures in the nation. The Archives preserves and makes accessible over 250 million records of New York’s State and colonial governments dating from 1630 to the present. The State Archives provides free access to photographs, artifacts, documents, manuscripts, and other materials that tell the story of New York’s history via its Digital Collections on the Archives website.
The Archives Partnership Trust was founded in 1992 to build an endowment and provide project support to enhance humanities programs, increase access to these outstanding treasures, and continue the preservation of New York's historical records. Since its founding, the Partnership Trust, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has supported exceptional projects and programs. These include the Research Residency Program, the Student Research Awards Program, history conferences, special exhibitions, public education programs, book signings and lectures, publications, teacher training institutes, preservation projects, and more.
The State Museum, State Library, and State Archives are programs of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or by visiting the Office of Cultural Education website.
Phone: (518) 474-1201
For More Information Contact:
Dora Ricci
Press@nysed.gov
www.nysed.gov
New York State Museum Announces June Public Programs
June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month
The New York State Museum announces its upcoming programming for June, offering educational opportunities for New Yorkers of all ages. Through special programs, including events, lectures, exhibits, and a host of online resources, children, families, educators, and students can experience art, science, and history in a fun and engaging way. As indicated in each listing, the following upcoming free programming is available in person or online.
LGBTQ+ Stories in Our Galleries
Thursday, June 6, 2024 | 12 PM | Museum Lobby | Free
Sunday, June 30, 2024 | 2 PM | Museum Lobby | Free
Throughout our history, New Yorkers have led the charge for equality, including fighting for the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals. In 1969, a spark was lit in the already growing gay rights movement at the Stonewall Uprising in Greenwich Village, New York City. As the movement grew nationally over the next few decades, New Yorkers participated in activism across the state, from the struggles of Gay Liberation through the AIDS crisis to the successful fight for marriage equality in 2011. Join Senior Historian Ashley Hopkins-Benton as she highlights a few LGBTQ+ stories in the New York State Museum’s galleries.
Learn more about June 6, 2024, LGBTQ+ Stories in Our Galleries
Learn more about June 30, 2024, LGBTQ+ Stories in Our Galleries
Searching for Timbuctoo, a film by Paul Miller
Saturday, June 15, 2024 |10 AM – 4 PM | Huxley Theater | Free
In 1846, New York State enacted a law requiring African American men to own $250 worth of property to vote. To circumvent this unjust law, radical abolitionist Gerrit Smith gave away 120,000 acres of land in Essex and Franklin Counties to 3,000 free Black men, thereby qualifying them to vote. Searching for Timbuctoo tells the history of this forgotten settlement and New York State on the brink of the Civil War. It follows an archaeology team looking to unearth evidence of the community. (The 55-minute film will run on a loop throughout the day.) Join us for a showing of Searching for Timbuctoo (2021), a film by writer and photographer Paul Miller.
Learn more about Searching for Timbuctoo, a film by Paul Miller
Gallery Tour Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s
Sunday, June 16, 2024 | 2 PM | New York Metropolis Hall | Free
Thursday, June 27, 2024 | 12 PM | New York Metropolis Hall | Free
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 true in the past as it is today. Wedding clothing holds memories; pieces—dresses, shoes, suits, and headwear—are often preserved and passed on to later 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 Exhibit Curator Connie Frisbee Houde as she highlights pieces from the exhibit Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s.
Learn more about June 16, 2024, Gallery Tour Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s
Learn more about June 27, 2024, Gallery Tour Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s
All That Has Disappeared: Latinxs and Urban Redevelopment, 1937-1962 A Lecture with Dr. Pedro A. Regalado, Stanford University
Thursday, June 20, 2024 |7 PM | Huxley Theater | Free
Pedro A. Regalado is an Assistant Professor of History at Stanford University, where he researches and teaches the history of race, immigration, planning, and capitalism in urban America. His first book, Nueva York: Making the Modern City, is a history of New York City’s Latinx community during the twentieth century, from the “pioneers” who arrived after World War I to the panoply of Latinx people who rebuilt the city in the wake of the 1975 fiscal crisis. Across a range of topics, from urban renewal to the rise of Latinx bankers, US military operations in Central America to drug workers who repurposed tenement buildings, Nueva York demonstrates how the democratic ideals of the city hinged, in large part, on the experiences of Latinx New Yorkers. Regalado’s work has been featured in the Journal of Urban History, Boston Review, The Washington Post, Platform, The Chronicle of Higher Education, and Public Books. Before coming to Stanford, Regalado was a junior fellow of the Society of Fellows at Harvard University. He was born in the Dominican Republic and raised in New York City’s Washington Heights.
Learn more about All That Has Disappeared: Latinxs and Urban Redevelopment, 1937-1962 - A Lecture with Dr. Pedro A. Regalado
Cabaret for Kids Presented by The Pride Center of the Capital Region
June 22, 2024 |12 PM - 2 PM| Huxley Theater | Free
Frieda and Carmie will host a fun-filled show and event with songs, games, prizes, and sing-alongs for kids of all ages.
Learn more about Cabaret for Kids, Presented by The Pride Center of the Capital Region
The State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website.
Phone: (518) 474-1201
For More Information Contact:
Dora Ricci
Press@nysed.gov
www.nysed.gov
New York State Museum Announces July Public Programs
New York State Museum Announces July Public Programs
The New York State Museum (NYSM) announces its upcoming programming for July, offering educational opportunities for New Yorkers of all ages. Special programs include events, lectures, exhibits, and a host of online resources. These offerings allow children, families, educators, and students to enjoy art, science, and history in an engaging way. The following upcoming free programs are free and are available in person or online, as indicated in each listing.
Summer at the Museum
Tuesday, July 16, 2024 | 11 AM - 1 PM | All Museum Galleries | Free
Thursday, July 18, 2024 | 11 AM - 1 PM | All Museum Galleries | Free
Tuesday, July 23, 2024 | 11 AM - 1 PM | All Museum Galleries | Free
Thursday, July 25, 2024 | 11 AM - 1 PM | All Museum Galleries | Free
Tuesday, July 30, 2024 | 11 AM - 1 PM | All Museum Galleries | Free
Throughout the summer, programs designed to spark creativity and curiosity will take place around the Museum. These family-friendly programs will change regularly, so make sure to come back!
Learn more about July 16, 2024, Summer at the Museum
Learn more about July 18, 2024, Summer at the Museum
Learn more about July 23, 2024, Summer at the Museum
Learn more about July 25, 2024, Summer at the Museum
Learn more about July 30, 2024, Summer at the Museum
BrainFood for the Curious: Canine Contrasts with Dr. Jeremy Kirchman
Wednesday, July 17, 2024 | 12 PM – 12:30 PM | Huxley Theater | Free
Explore the genetic and physical differences between wolves and coyotes by joining Dr. Jeremy Kirchman as he sheds light on the historical decline of wolves and the colonization of coyotes in New York. Learn how the history of coyote-wolf hybridization has made it difficult for hunters and wildlife management agencies to distinguish our ubiquitous eastern coyote from the occasional wolf that wanders outside of its core breeding range in neighboring Canada. This program includes a 20-minute talk and a brief Q&A.
Learn more about BrainFood for the Curious: Canine Contrasts with Dr. Jeremy Kirchman
Celebrate National Carousel Day at the NYSM
Thursday, July 25, 2024 | 11 AM – 1 PM | 4th Floor Terrace | Free
Celebrate National Carousel Day on July 25th with a day of fun activities at the New York State Museum. Enjoy carousel-themed stories, crafts, and a ride on the Museum's 110-year-old carousel. This free, family-friendly event will have everyone spinning with joy! National Carousel Day commemorates the registration of the first patent for a carousel design by William Schneider on July 25, 1871.
Learn more about Celebrate National Carousel Day at the NYSM!
Tour of the State Education Building
Saturday, July 27 | 2 PM – 2:45 PM | State Education Building
Tour the historic New York State Education Department Building! New York State Museum staff lead the 45-minute Education Building tour, and visitors can explore the building adorned with murals by Albany native Will H. Low. The tour starts outdoors on the front steps of the State Education Building, located at 89 Washington Avenue, Albany. Tours of the Education Building will be offered at 2 p.m. Each tour can accommodate 35 people, and reservations are required.
Learn more about Tour of the State Education Building
The State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website.
Phone: (518) 474-1201
For More Information Contact:
Dora Ricci
Press@nysed.gov
www.nysed.gov
State Museum Opens Exhibition: “Canine Contrasts: Unraveling Wolves And Coyotes In New York”
Join Dr. Jeremy Kirchman for Related Educational Lunchtime Lecture Series "BrainFood for the Curious: Canine Contrasts” in July and August
The New York State Museum (NYSM) announced today the debut of its latest exhibition, Canine Contrasts: Unraveling Wolves and Coyotes in New York. The exhibit will feature Taxidermy mounts and skulls of wolves and coyotes, both species from the Museum’s mammalogy collection. It will also tell the story of a wolf that was recently mistaken for a coyote and killed by a licensed hunter near Cherry Valley, New York.
NYSM Curator of Birds and Mammals Dr. Jeremy Kirchman said, “We are excited to display the Cherry Valley wolf specimen and use it to anchor an exhibit about the complex interactions between coyotes and wolves in eastern North America. The colonization of New York by coyotes that have hybridized with wolves and the occasional dispersal of individual wolves back into our area is a fascinating story that we are happy to share with the public. Specimen collections like ours are the basis of ongoing DNA research on wild canids here at NYSM and other museums and universities.”
The Canine Contrasts exhibit offers a unique opportunity to explore the differences between wolves and coyotes, including their physical and genetic characteristics and habitats. It also shows how the history of coyote-wolf hybridization has made it difficult for both hunters and wildlife management agencies to distinguish our ubiquitous eastern coyote from the occasional wolf that wanders outside of its core breeding range in neighboring Canada.
The New York State Museum will host two events related to the exhibit.
On Wednesday, July 17, starting at noon in the Huxley Theater, NYSM Curator of Birds and Mammals, Dr. Jeremy Kirchman, will host the "BrainFood for the Curious: Canine Contrasts with Dr. Jeremy Kirchman,"which is a short talk held during lunchtime in which he will discuss the natural history of wolves and coyotes. Following the talk, Dr. Kirchman will lead visitors to the new exhibit to continue the discussion. This program, "BrainFood for the Curious: Canine Contrasts with Dr. Jeremy Kirchman," will be held again on Wednesday, August 14th at 12 PM in the Huxley Theater.
The State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website.
The New York State Library is part of the Office of Cultural Education within the New York State Education Department. Visit the New York State Library website for a complete list of upcoming programs. To receive news, resources, and other updates, please subscribe to the quarterly newsletter.
The New York State Archives holds many of the oldest and most important archival treasures in the nation. The Archives preserves and makes accessible over 250 million records of New York’s State and colonial governments dating from 1630 to the present. The State Archives provides free access to photographs, artifacts, documents, manuscripts, and other materials that tell the story of New York’s history via its Digital Collections on the Archives website.
The Archives Partnership Trust was founded in 1992 to build an endowment and provide project support to enhance humanities programs, increase access to these outstanding treasures, and continue the preservation of New York's historical records. Since its founding, the Partnership Trust, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has supported exceptional projects and programs. These include the Research Residency Program, the Student Research Awards Program, history conferences, special exhibitions, public education programs, book signings and lectures, publications, teacher training institutes, preservation projects, and more.
The State Museum, State Library, and State Archives are programs of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or by visiting the Office of Cultural Education website.
Phone: (518) 474-1201
For More Information Contact:
Dora Ricci
Press@nysed.gov
www.nysed.gov
New York State Museum Announces August Public Programs
The New York State Museum announces its upcoming programming for August, offering educational opportunities for New Yorkers of all ages. Through special programs, including events, lectures, exhibits, and a host of online resources, children, families, educators, and students can experience art, science, and history in a fun and engaging way. The following upcoming free programs are available in person or online, as indicated in each listing.
Summer at the Museum
Thursday, August 1, 2024 | 11 AM - 1 PM | All Museum Galleries | Free
Tuesday, August 6, 2024 | 11 AM - 1 PM | All Museum Galleries | Free
Thursday, August 8, 2024 | 11 AM - 1 PM | All Museum Galleries | Free
Throughout the summer, programs designed to spark creativity and curiosity will take place around the Museum. These family-friendly programs will change regularly, so make sure to come back!
Learn more about August 1, 2024, Summer at the Museum
Learn more about August 6, 2024, Summer at the Museum
Learn more about August 8, 2024, Summer at the Museum
Tours of the State Education Building
Saturday, August 10 | 2 PM – 2:45 PM | State Education Building
Saturday, August 17 | 2 PM – 2:45 PM | State Education Building
Tour the historic New York State Education Department Building! New York State Museum staff lead the 45-minute Education Building tour, and visitors can explore the building adorned with murals by Albany native Will H. Low. The tour starts outdoors on the front steps of the State Education Building, located at 89 Washington Avenue, Albany. Tours of the Education Building will be offered at 2 p.m. Each tour can accommodate 35 people, and reservations are required.
Learn more about the August 10 State Education Building Tour(link is external)
Learn more about the August 17 State Education Building Tour(link is external)
Gallery Tour Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s
Sunday, August 11 | 2 PM | New York Metropolis Hall | Free
Thursday, August 15 | 12 PM | New York Metropolis Hall | Free
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 head wear—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.
Learn more about the August 11 Gallery Tour Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s
Learn more about the August 15 Gallery Tour Unveiled: Wedding Wear in New York, 1910s–1940s
BrainFood for the Curious: Canine Contrasts with Dr. Jeremy Kirchman
Wednesday, August 14 | 12 PM – 12:30 PM | Huxley Theater | Free
Explore the genetic and physical differences between wolves and coyotes by joining Dr. Jeremy Kirchman as he sheds light on the historical decline of wolves and the colonization of coyotes in New York. Learn how the history of coyote-wolf hybridization has made it difficult for hunters and wildlife management agencies to distinguish our ubiquitous eastern coyote from the occasional wolf that wanders outside of its core breeding range in neighboring Canada. This program includes a 20-minute talk and a brief Q&A.
Learn more about BrainFood for the Curious: Canine Contrasts with Dr. Jeremy Kirchman
The New York State Library is part of the Office of Cultural Education within the New York State Education Department. Visit the New York State Library website for a complete list of upcoming programs. To receive news, resources, and other updates, please subscribe to the quarterly newsletter.
The New York State Archives holds many of the oldest and most important archival treasures in the nation. The Archives preserves and makes accessible over 250 million records of New York’s State and colonial governments dating from 1630 to the present. The State Archives provides free access to photographs, artifacts, documents, manuscripts, and other materials that tell the story of New York’s history via its Digital Collections on the Archives website.
The Archives Partnership Trust was founded in 1992 to build an endowment and provide project support to enhance humanities programs, increase access to these outstanding treasures, and continue the preservation of New York's historical records. Since its founding, the Partnership Trust, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has supported exceptional projects and programs. These include the Research Residency Program, the Student Research Awards Program, history conferences, special exhibitions, public education programs, book signings and lectures, publications, teacher training institutes, preservation projects, and more.
The State Museum, State Library, and State Archives are programs of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or by visiting the Office of Cultural Education website.
Phone: (518) 474-1201
For More Information Contact:
Dora Ricci
Press@nysed.gov
www.nysed.gov
State Museum Announces Sadako’s Crane Exhibit on Display in World Trade Center Gallery
New Exhibit Highlights the Connection between Hiroshima and 9/11 Historical Events Through the Story of a Young Japanese Girl
Origami Crane on Display September 10 through October 6, 2024
The New York State Museum (NYSM) announced today the opening of a new exhibit, Sadako’s Crane, in The World Trade Center: Rescue, Recovery, Response Gallery on Tuesday, September 10th. On display until October 6, 2024, the new exhibit will showcase an important artifact that connects the tragedies of the 1945 Hiroshima, Japan atomic bombing and the September 11, 2001, attacks through the story of a young Japanese girl named Sadako Sasaki. In 1955, she created the tiny origami crane using the red wrapper of a methotrexate medicine container, a treatment for her illness. In 2010, Sadako’s brother, Mashiro Sasaki, donated the crane, one of only seven remaining worldwide, to the 9/11 Tribute Museum in New York City. This significant artifact was transferred to the State Museum from the 9/11 Tribute Museum in 2022.
“This exhibit commemorates a young girl’s wish for peace and understanding and reminds us of our shared connections across time, geographical boundaries, and cultural differences. This important artifact serves as a bridge between two profound tragedies—Hiroshima and September 11th—and offers a universal message of hope and resilience. We are honored to share Sadako’s legacy with our visitors through this meaningful exhibit,” said NYSM Chief Curator of History Dr. Jennifer Lemak.
Sadako Sasaki, born on January 7, 1943, in Hiroshima, Japan, was just two years old when the United States dropped the first atomic bomb on her city on August 6, 1945. Although she and her mother survived the bombing, Sadako developed leukemia by 1955 due to radiation exposure. She was hospitalized at a Red Cross hospital in Hiroshima on February 21, 1955.
In August, Sadako learned of a Japanese legend that the folder would be granted one wish if a person folded 1,000 origami cranes. Inspired by this, she began folding the intricate paper birds, completing more than 1,300 before her death at the age of 12 on October 25, 1955.
The delicate crane was previously displayed at the 9/11 Tribute Museum until its closure in 2022 during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was among the many items transferred to the New York State Museum collections for safekeeping after the Tribute’s closure, where it now stands as a testament to the enduring human spirit. It will be on display at the State Museum each September annually.
The State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website.
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(518) 474-1201
www.nysed.gov
Join Jordan Taylor Hill for a dynamic exploration of rhythm, movement, and cultural memory across the African Diaspora. The program opens with a powerful performance featuring traditional and contemporary rhythms from West Africa, Cuba, and the Black American tradition. Participants are then invited into an interactive workshop where Jordan guides them through rhythms and movement vocabulary that illuminate how these practices carry history, identity, and community.
Jordan is a 2026 NYSCA Support for Artists grant recipient through New York Folklore, developing his new work, Songs Born of Tradition. Drawing from years of study in Guinea, Senegal, and Cuba, he brings forward the lineage, technique, and spirit behind these musical traditions. Whether you’re a musician, dancer, educator, or simply curious, this experience offers a deeper understanding of how rhythm shapes culture and creativity.
All percussion instruments will be provided by Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, making the workshop accessible for all participants.
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.
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!