After a successful launch of Saratoga County Historian’s tours in 2022, the History Center at Brookside Museum has released its tour schedule for 2023. “The response last year was overwhelming” said Jim Richmond who is organizing the tours. “Attendees were excited to learn more about our local history through the stories told by our tour leaders.”
Five tours have been scheduled from mid-July through September. Registration must be made in advance at the History Center website https://brooksidemuseum.org/events/. A suggested donation of $10 per registration (individuals, couples or families) will support the programs of the History Center and a not-for-profit organization chosen by the tour leaders. Specific directions and parking locations will be provided to registrants in advance of the tour dates.
“Getting your feet on the ground where history happened is an excellent way to gain a deeper understanding of our modern communities.” said Lauren Roberts, Saratoga County Historian. “These walks reveal a glimpse of the past while providing context for the places we drive by everyday.”
Each of the tour leaders are experienced historians with a depth of knowledge about their communities and the people who lived there. Tours are scheduled for 90 minutes and distances vary up to 1.5 miles.
Wednesday, July 19, 10 am – Hillside Cemetery & Burnt Hills Baptist Church. Ballston Town Historian Rick Reynolds will explain how the Town of Ballston is preserving its past in Hillside Cemetery and tell stories of those buried there. Learn more at https://brooksidemuseum.org/event/historians-walking-tours-hillside-cemetery-burnt-hills-baptist-church/
Thursday, August 17, 1 pm – Round Lake. Village Historian Lance Spallholz and Scott Rigney will describe the community’s history which started in 1868 as a location for Methodist Camp meetings. The unique architecture of the village’s buildings will be on display. Learn more at https://brooksidemuseum.org/event/historians-walking-tours-round-lake/
Friday, September 1, 10 am – Ballston Spa Sensory Tour. Anne Clothier, Education Director at Brookside Museum will explore the sights, sounds and smells of days of olde. Bring your children and grandchildren to this tour! https://brooksidemuseum.org/event/historians-walking-tours-ballston-spa-sensory-tour/
Saturday, September 9, 10 am. – Historic Jonesville. Join Clifton Park Historian John Scherer for a walk through the historic hamlet of Jonesville and a tour of the Jonesville Rural Cemetery. https://brooksidemuseum.org/event/historians-walking-tours-jonesville/
Tuesday, September 26, 1 pm – Waterford 1810-1880. Russ Vandervoort, Waterford Town Historian will lead a walking tour of downtown Waterford, describing local landmarks and influential residents who lived there in the mid-19th century. https://brooksidemuseum.org/event/historians-walking-tours-waterford/
Downtown Waterford
Round Lake Cottage
Ballston’s “Chocolate Factory”
