Saratoga County History Center

Experts Next Door #25 - The CCC in Saratoga County and the Adirondacks
2024-11-06 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Online
The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) began on March 31, 1933 under President Roosevelt’s New Deal to relieve the poverty and unemployment of the Depression. Workers built trails, roads, campsites, dams, stocked fish, built and maintained fire tower observer cabins and telephone lines, fought fires, and planted millions of trees. The CCC disbanded in 1942 due to the need for men in WW II.
There were over 200 CCC camps in New York State, including one locally in Stillwater, from where men worked developing Saratoga Battlefield as an historic site.
Join Marty Podskoch, historian and author of 11 books, as he discusses the role and legacy of the CCC in our area.
Marty is the author of 11 books, including “Adirondack Civilian Conservation Corps Camps: Their History, Memories and Legacy of the CCC“, and also writes a weekly column, “Adirondack Stories“, in 5 Adirondack newspapers. He is presently gathering information on the CCC camps in VT for future books. Podskoch is keenly interested in meeting individuals who may have CCC stories and photos to contribute to his next book. Those that have information should contact him at 860-267-2442 or podskoch@comcast.net
This is an online event. A Zoom link will be sent out within 24 hours of the start.
This event is free for members. There is a suggested donation of $5 for non-members, but any donations are always welcome and gratefully received.
Please register HERE.

Make & Take: Alcohol Ink Tiles
2024-11-09 12:00 - 15:00 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
This event is sold-out. Please email info@artyladymsd.com if you have any questions.
Join artists, Ottavia Huang and Maria DeAngelo for a free art experience. Learn to create beautiful tiles with alcohol inks.
*This event is FREE to the public with all supplies provided, however pre-registration is required. —Saratoga Arts made this program possible through the Community Arts Regrant Program, funded by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.
The Ballston Spa Committee on the Arts also helped make this program possible through funding from the Village of Ballston Spa, as well as provided programming and promotional support.

From Malta to the Moon: The Rocket Test Station
2024-11-12 19:00 - 20:30 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
Paul Perreault, former Town of Malta Historian, will use images and video clips to tell the story of how and why Luther Forest in the Town of Malta was selected to begin America’s space program. Developed almost 75 years ago by the Federal government in collaboration with General Electric, this rocket test facility is in our own backyard and remnants still exist today.
This event is free but donations are gratefully accepted.

This event is sold-out.

Sounds in Winter Concert: Stringwynde
2024-11-16 15:00 - 16:30 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
In August of 2017, an ambitious flutist emailed a highly recommended harpist, and inquired if she might want to play some duets together – and, thus, Stringwynde was born. The artists each hold graduate degrees in music and perform in a variety of musical genres. As individual performers, their appearances have included solo recitals, chamber ensembles, symphonies, and many private events. As versatile educators, they have taught countless private music students as well as working in both public and private school classrooms. Flautist Melanie Chirignan and Harpist Darhon Rees-Rohrbacher are well known throughout the Capital Region and specialize in music of the Celtic tradition.
They will be performing in the Long Room at The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum on November 16 at 3pm.
The concert open to the public and free, though donations are always appreciated, either online or at the event.
This program is made possible by a grant from Saratoga Arts and The Music Performance Trust Fund of the American Federation of Musicians.
Register HERE

Brookside's 50th Birthday Party
2024-11-17 14:00 - 16:00 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
50 years ago, a dedicated group of local people opened the doors on Brookside Museum, now the home of Saratoga County History Center.
We want to celebrate that event with a party, cake and the premiere screening of the new film
50 Years of Brookside Museum
There will be a short business part of the gathering for members to vote on the proposed budget and 2025 board members.
Register HERE

Artisan's Market Open Tuesdays - Sundays
2024-11-30 - 2024-12-24 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States

Opening of the 2024 Artisan's Market
2024-11-30 11:00 - 17:00 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
Join us on Saturday, November 30 from 11am – 5pm for the opening of the 24th annual Artisan’s Market at Brookside Museum!
The Artisan’s Market runs from “Small Business Saturday” November 30 through December 24, 2024.
Like its predecessors, the twenty-fourth installment of the market will feature only handcrafted products created by local artisans. Everything from natural soaps and lotions to unique ornaments and jewelry to pottery and photography – simply the best that our community has to offer.
Brookside Museum, headquarters of the Saratoga County History Center, is located at 21 Fairground Ave, Ballston Spa, NY 12020.
The 2024 hours are as follows:
Tuesday – Thursdays 12pm – 4pm
Friday 12pm – 5pm
Saturday & Sunday 11am – 5pm

Cloaks and Greatcoats - 18th Century Outerwear
2025-01-03 19:00 - 20:30 | NY
The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum announces “Cloaks and Greatcoats: 18th Century Outerwear” with well known historical clothing expert, Henry Cooke. This presentation will take place on Friday, January 3rd, at 7 pm at Brookside Museum in Ballston Spa, NY.
Learn how people kept warm in the 18th century and view original and replica garments. Mr. Cooke will cover not only material and construction techniques, but also aspects of social history.
The event is free and open to the public, though donations are always welcome. (In case of inclement weather, please check with Brookside Museum).

This event is sold-out.

This event has been made possible through the collaborative efforts of the 24th Regiment of Foot in North America and is supported by the Campaign for Saratoga 250, Inc., a non-profit dedicated to highlighting the importance of the Saratoga Region during the American Revolution.

Sounds in Winter Concert - String Theory Trio
2025-01-18 15:00 - 17:00 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
The String Theory Trio is a newly formed ensemble comprised of three friends who recently began exploring repertoire that exists for two violins and a cello. For many years, they have performed with local orchestras, choral groups, and chamber groups, and have taught their instruments to students of all ages and levels of experience.
They will be performing in the Long Room at The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum on Saturday, January 18th at 3pm.
The concert is open to the public and free, though donations are always appreciated, either online or at the event.
Registration is sold-out but there will be a very limited number of seats available for walk-ins on a first-come-first-serve basis.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Brian Mooney has been playing the cello for 36 years and studied with Matthias Wexler and Jean-Michel Fonteneau, among others. He grew up in Colonie, NY and attended the Crane School of Music at Potsdam as well as the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. He is currently in his 20th year of teaching orchestra at Niskayuna High School and is active as a gig musician.
Dana Probeyahn-Smith is a local music educator and violinist. This is her 21st year teaching strings in the South Colonie School district where she currently directs the 6th, 7th, & 8th grade orchestras at Lisha Kill Middle School. She holds a Bachelor of Music Education and Violin Performance from the Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam and a Master of Music from Ithaca College. She has played with the Glens Falls and Schenectady Symphonies and performed with the Rome Festival Orchestra in Italy. She lives in Delmar with her husband, 5-year-old daughter, and pup.
Kathryn Tomlin has been playing violin for 36 years and grew up in Baldwinsville, NY, studying under Jim Krehbiel of Syracuse, NY. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Violin Performance from SUNY Albany in 2005. Since 2002, she has played with several local orchestras in the Capital District, including: Schenectady Symphony, Utica Symphony, Catskill Symphony, and Berkshire Symphony, as well as a number of choral and chamber ensembles. As a freelance musician, she frequently plays in small ensembles for weddings and other special events. She also teaches violin and viola as a private instructor. She lives in Schenectady with her husband, 7-year-old daughter, 2-year-old son, and two cats.

This program is made possible through Ballston Spa Committee of the Arts, and by a grant from Saratoga Arts and The Music Performance Trust Fund of the American Federation of Musicians.

END #26 - Connor Williams Greetings from the Great Camps: The History of the Adirondack Vacation
2025-01-23 19:00 - 20:30 | Online
In 1850, the Adirondack region was a blank spot on the map, largely unorganized and uncharted.
But, by 1900, the Adirondacks hosted elaborate summer estates for the wealthiest families in America: Vanderbilts, Rockefellers, Carnegies, Whitneys and Morgans. Thomas Edison and Albert Einstein summered and sailed on the same mountain lake. Adirondacks were a destination. How did this happen, and why?
Join Dr. Connor Williams, scholar, teacher and the historian at Great Camp Sagamore (where he directs their history programming) as he answers these questions, and discusses how environmentalism, opulence, industry, inequality, architecture and nature all intersected to produce the Adirondack Park (and the Adirondack vacations) we still connect to today.
Register HERE.
This is an online event. A Zoom link will be sent out within 24 hours of the start.
This event is free for members. There is a suggested donation of $5 for non-members, but any donations are always welcome and gratefully received.

Historical Sewing Sessions for Reenactors and those Looking to Volunteer at Saratoga 250 Events: Apons
2025-01-25 13:00 - 16:00 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
Join us for an afternoon of stitching, tea, and camaraderie as we share information, resources, and ideas for clothing that can be worn during upcoming events related to the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.

All are welcome to attend these free gatherings, but pre-registration is required. Email aclothier@SaratogaCountyNY.gov to sign up.

January 25: Aprons
February 22: Caps & Accessories
March 22: Bedgowns & Wrapping Gowns/Banyans
Participants can work on any project, but these will be the subjects of focus for anyone wanting additional help and guidance. Options will be included for men’s, women’s, and children’s garments.
Limited fabric selection available with advance notice. Beginners are welcome.

Saturdays, 1-4 pm at Brookside Museum
21 Fairground Avenue,
Ballston Spa, NY
Sponsored by Saratoga250 and the Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum.

Sounds in Winter Concert: Lark Strings
2025-02-08 15:00 - 16:00 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
Led by Distinguished Artist-in-Residence at Skidmore College, Michael Emery, and including Jessica Belflower, Stephani Emery and André Laurent O’Neil, Lark Strings plays composers like Bach, Vivaldi and Mozart alongside the rock musicians they influenced.
They will be performing in the Long Room at The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum on Saturday, February 8th at 3pm.
The concert is open to the public and free, though donations are always appreciated, either online or at the event.
This event is sold-out.
This program is made possible through Ballston Spa Committee of the Arts, and by a grant from Saratoga Arts and The Music Performance Trust Fund of the American Federation of Musicians.

Historical Sewing Sessions for Reenactors and those Looking to Volunteer at Saratoga 250 Events: Caps & Accessories
2025-02-22 13:00 - 16:00 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States

Frida Kahlo and the Bravest Niña in el Mundo - Saratoga Opera Event for Children
2025-03-08 14:00 - 15:00 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
Together with Ballston Spa Committee on the Arts, Saratoga County History Center is proud to present a performance by Opera Saratoga, especially for children

Frida Kahlo and the bravest Niña in el Mundo is an interactive children’s opera composed by Joe Illick with libretto written by Mark Campbell. The story is about Mariana, a young girl living in Mexico City in the late 1940s. Mariana’s family encourages her to have her portrait painted by the renowned artist, Frida Kahlo. Mariana is initially frightened, but is emboldened and charmed by Kahlo, the animals in her household including a monkey, a parrot and a dog, and a visit by the exuberant artist Diego Rivera. As Mariana sits for her portrait, she learns all about Frida’s life, and begins to understand the meaning of bravery.
The 45-minute opera explores the art of Frida Kahlo as well as themes of courage and family.
Opera Saratoga will be presenting this opera in the Long Room at The Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum on Saturday, March 8th at 2pm.
This opera is appropriate for ages 5-11.
All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Register HERE
The concert is open to the public and free, though donations are always appreciated, either online or at the event.
Follow the Ballston Spa Committee on the Arts on social media for more arts events in Ballston Spa through Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/bspaarts/ ) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/bspaarts/)
This program is a joint event offered by Saratoga County History Center and the Ballston Spa Committee on the Arts.

Historian Tea Talks: Love Your Neighbor
2025-03-19 15:00 - 16:30 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
On Wednesday, March 19th, at 3pm, for the first of the 2025 season of Historian Tea Talks, Saratoga County History Center will host Ruby Marcotte, a 4th generation traditional artist of Abenaki Native American and Quebecois French heritage, and previously Town Historian for the Town of Day, who will present a program, “Love Your Neighbor”, about her life growing up in an informal, out of the way community, “on the mountain”, west of Corinth, a community with a rich, long history of connectedness.

Tea and cookies will be served. Registration is free and recommended, but a donation of $5 per registration, online or at the event, would be appreciated to support the programs of Saratoga County History Center.
This event is sold-out.

Historical Sewing Sessions for Reenactors and those Looking to Volunteer at Saratoga 250 Events: Bedgowns & Wrapping Gowns/Banyans
2025-03-22 13:00 - 16:00 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States

Historian Tea Talks: Saratoga in the Gilded Age and the Lost Park
2025-04-02 15:00 - 16:30 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
On Wednesday, April 2nd, at 3pm, for the third of the 2025 season of Historian Tea Talks, Saratoga County History Center with host Hollis Palmer, who will present a program “Saratoga in the Gilded Age and the Lost Park”.
This event is sold-out.

Well Dressed: Gowns of the 1770s - Public Program & Workshop by Emily Stringham
2025-04-04 19:00 - 20:30 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
Well Dressed: Gowns of the 1770s
A public program & workshop by Emily Stringham of At the Sign of the Golden Scissors
Public Program: Friday, April 4 at 7 pm – Free
Workshop: April 4-6 – $295
Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum
21 Fairground Avenue, Ballston Spa, New York

Learn about the importance of this garment that was worn by women of all classes. The Friday evening program will cover the social history and construction details of the garment and also include an opportunity to view an original gown from the 18th century. The Friday evening program is free and open to the public, but pre-registration is encouraged.
Register HERE.

The three-day workshop will guide participants through the making of the gown and is $295. Pre-registration is required and space is limited. Registration opens at noon on Saturday, February 22 at https://atthesignofthegoldenscissors.com/pages/workshops

Traveling the Mother Road: America's Route 66
2025-04-10 19:00 - 20:30 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
US Route 66 had its official beginnings in 1926 when the Bureau of Public Roads began the nation’s first federal highway system. The creation of the road led to development of businesses all along the route and created the American idea of “road trips.” But, as we come close to its 100th anniversary, do you know that you can still travel most of that road and relive the era when cars were beginning to dominate the American scene?

On Thursday, April 10th, at 7pm, join Joanne and Rick Reynolds, in Brookside Museum, as they share the story of their personal and professional road trip from the beginning to the end of America’s Route 66 – from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. This presentation is not a travelogue but an examination of the story of this road. Full of stories, pictures, and an emphasis on preservation of the past for all to experience now and into the future.
The presentation is free to attend, but donations are always welcome and appreciated, either online or at the event.
Register HERE.

Random Acts of Poetry: Writing Workshop
2025-04-12 09:30 - 11:30 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
Join the Ballston Spa Committee on the Arts and SCHC at Brookside Museum for the Random Acts of Poetry Writing Workshop. The event will be led by Elaine Handley and ages 10 and up are welcome.
This event is free, but registration is required. Sign up HERE

Day of Celebration: Portraits, Play & Progress
2025-04-12 13:00 - 16:00 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
Mark your calendar and join us on Saturday, April 12th, at 1PM, for a day of celebration and new beginnings.
We’ll unveil Portraiture: Faces and Legacies, a new exhibit featuring stunning portraits from our collection, including rarely displayed pieces.
We’re also thrilled to announce the grand opening of the History Hunters Hangout, a dynamic, interactive space for children and families to engage with history through hands-on activities, creative play, and games.
Take this opportunity to also meet and welcome Suzanne Maloney, our new Executive Director.
Refreshments will be served as we celebrate these exciting Brookside milestones together.
RSVP HERE

Historian Tea Talk: Women of the Saratoga Campaign
2025-04-16 15:00 - 16:30 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
On Wednesday, April 16th, at 3pm, for the third of the 2025 season of Historian Tea Talks, Saratoga County History Center with host Anne Clothier, who will present a program “Women of the Saratoga Campaign”.
This event is sold-out.

Having a Layer Flock in Your Backyard
2025-04-26 08:30 - 13:00 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
Having a layer flock in your backyard, a class to cover:

Local laws or how to make them chicken friendly

Breeds

Housing/pen design

Feed

Egg collection and care

What to do with older birds

The latest info on the bird flu

Class size has been limited and early sign up is suggested.
Register HERE
Presented by the Milton Grange #685
The Milton Grange is dedicated to the protection and promotion of the rural community through a variety of volunteer and educational activities.

Random Acts of Poetry: Performance Reading
2025-04-26 19:00 - 20:30 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
Join the Ballston Spa Committee on the Arts and SCHC at Brookside Museum for the Random Acts of Poetry Performance Reading. Hear Poetry by Steven Guilfoyle and other local poets!
Register HERE

The Cello Experience Sound Bath
2025-04-27 14:00 - 15:00 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
This event is sold-out.

The Ballston Spa Committee on the Arts presents The Cello Experience! Enjoy an afternoon of Cello Sound Therapy with Demetria Koninis of The Cello Experience. Relax, restore and realign with the soothing vibrations of the cello. This immersive sound healing session blends deep, resonant tones to promote balance and inner peace.
Bring a yoga mat, blanket or cushion for comfort.
While this even is free to attend, registration is required as space is limited to 20 people.
*Registration information with be shared with the Ballston Spa Committee on the Arts.

Sheep to Shawl Community Day
2025-05-10 13:00 - 16:00 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
The long-running interactive “Sheep to Shawl” program at Brookside Museum returns to the Saratoga County History Center. Sheep, lambs, farmers, herders, the famous Fred the Shearer, and the Rock Day Spinning Guild will assemble on Brookside Museum’s front lawn to demonstrate every facet of sheep raising, shearing, and spinning to produce the wool clothing that was so ubiquitous in early America. Sheep to Shawl is a hands-on, family-friendly event. Young and the young-at-heart will have fun petting the sheep, meeting farmers, and participating in demonstrations. A terrific opportunity to embrace the spring weather, learn about Saratoga County’s agricultural past, and enjoy some quality family time. We are grateful to the Stewarts’ Shops Holiday Match program for their generous support of this educational opportunity.

Regional Pre-Contact Archaeology of New York State
2025-05-15 19:00 - 20:00 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
John Garbellano of Hartgen Archaeological Associates will explore aspects of New York State pre-contact archaeology and the broader cultural and environmental history of the Capital Region and Hudson Valley; archaeological sites evidencing the movements of Indigenous people since the end of the last ice age; and two projects Hartgen recently completed in the Towns of Malta and Cambridge, and how they fit into the larger picture of New York State Archaeology.
He will also discuss why Cultural Resource Management is an important service and contributor to New York State Archaeology.
Since 1973, Hartgen Archaeological Associates has successfully completed thousands of archaeological and historical resource studies throughout the Northeast. Our dedication to providing responsive and effective Cultural Resource Management services has helped advance archaeology in this region and the public’s understanding of the history and culture surrounding them. The Regional Pre-Contact Archaeology of New York State is important because of the larger, interconnected complex evidencing the movements of Indigenous people since the end of the last ice age.
This even is sold-out.

Summer Garden Program: Pollinator Partnerships: Advice from the Pollinator Community
2025-05-18 14:00 - 15:30 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
Come and join the Saratoga County History Center at Brookside Museum for an afternoon of celebrating and learning about the essential role of pollinators on Sunday, May 18, at 2:00 P.M. Listen as a lively panel of guests from the area’s community of masterful pollinator gardens discuss their efforts to create habitats for the pollinator communities that play a vital role in supporting the ecosystems and agriculture upon which our lives depend. Afterward, please join us for the naming and dedication of our nascent and evolving pollinator garden. After the day’s events conclude refreshments will be served.
Program Presenters:
· Tom Denny: Founder, SoBro Conservancy of Saratoga
· Suzanne Balet Haight: Owner: Balet Flowers & Design
· Valerie Robinson, Master Gardener: Saratoga Spa State Park
· Mina Dunnam, Master Gardener: Pauline’s Pollinator Habitat at Pitney Meadows Community Farm
REGISTER HERE

Miller's Backyard Barbecue
2025-05-30 15:00 - 18:00 | Brookside Museum, 21 Fariground Ave., Ballston Spa, NY, 12020, United States
Summer is Here at Brookside Museum with Miller’s Backyard Barbecue

Include Brookside Museum in your dinner plans for Friday, May 30th, order some delicious Millers Backyard Barbecue and pick it up from Brookside Museum.
Chicken and pulled pork dinners are available for $15.00 and beef brisket dinners for $20.00 (beef brisket by pre-order only). All dinners include baked potato, cole slaw and corn bread. An 8 oz. serving of mac & cheese is also available for $5.00.
Drive-thru pickup/take out only.
There will be some additional meals available without pre-ordering (but not the brisket).
Reserve your meals HERE

Union Avenue Walking Tour
2025-06-11 10:00 - 11:30 | NY
Join local author and historian Hollis Palmer for a walking tour of the great cottages along Union Avenue and Circular street that ushered in the Gilded Age in Saratoga Springs. This mile and a half walk will begin across from Congress Park in front of Empire State College. Parking is available along Union Avenue and Regent Street. There are no bathrooms on this walk. Donations appreciated. The tour is limited to 25 people.
This event is sold-out.
