We offer educational history lectures for groups of all kinds. Each program provides an engaging look at Saratoga County’s past.
Current Programs:
Historic Holidays Learn how holidays have evolved over time. View images of past festivities and see holiday-related objects. Participants are encouraged to share their own holiday memories of Christmas, Hanukkah, Independence Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and other holidays important to them.
A Few Lines to Let You Know Discover the world of Alonzo Bump, a Civil War soldier from Saratoga County, through the letters sent home to his wife. Learn about what life was like for Alonzo on the battlefield and for those back at home. We will read excerpts of his letters, discuss the timeline of the Civil War, and examine original and replica items from the era.
Passing the Time in Victorian Saratoga County What did people do for fun during the Victorian era? They certainly had plenty of events, activities, and organizations to choose from. Learn about the many fraternal groups, soirees, fairs, church socials, casinos, and academies that offered entertainment and enrichment to Saratogians long ago.
A Virtual Tour of Ballston Spa Explore this Saratoga County village and compare and contrast modern views with ones from over a century ago. Learn about how this booming tourist destination adapted and evolved into an industrial center in the nineteenth century. Discover the many hidden stories of the County Seat.
Weather Memories Stories of extreme weather and other natural phenomena are interwoven throughout our local history. Explore the influence of weather and learn about the ways in which locals tried to control these natural forces (such as dams and changes in infrastructure). We will examine a variety of historical resources and participants will also be invited to share memories or family stories of storms and other natural events.
Programs in Development:
School Days A new lecture exploring how one-room schoolhouses shaped rural life in Saratoga County. This program will highlight memorable stories collected through an oral‑history project currently underway.
Booking Information:
In‑Person Programs (Delivered at Your Location) Each in‑person history program is $120 per session, plus a round‑trip mileage fee calculated at the current Federal reimbursement rate. Mileage is based on travel to and from 21 Fairground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY. Our educator travels directly to your site, providing a convenient and engaging program experience for your group.
Programs Hosted at Brookside Museum Groups may also choose to hold their program at the museum. The on‑site program fee is $150, which includes a visit of up to two hours featuring:
- A 45–60 minute history lecture
- A seasonal tour of the historic garden, offered when weather and conditions allow
- Private use of the museum’s Longroom
This option offers a rich, immersive experience in a historic setting.
For more information or to join our mailing list, please contact our Director of Education, Charlene DuBuque, at education@brooksidemuseum.org.
