Events

HOOSICK HISTORY AND HERITAGE FAIR May 18, 2024 The Hoosick History and Heritage Fair is back for its 2nd year! This popular event, sponsored by the Friends of the Bennington Battlefield and the Hoosick Township Historical Society, will be held on May 18th, from 10 am until 3 pm at the Hoosick Falls Armory on Church St. in Hoosick Falls. Get immersed in our local history and learn about the many interesting historic sites and museums in our locality as well as the activities presented by local historical organizations. In addition to the many historical sites, societies and groups represented, there will be a live owl presentation by the Berkshire Bird Paradise, fun kids activities (the quill pens will be back!), and reenactors who will share their knowledge and love of history in a unique way. A new feature of the event will be guest speakers from two new and important area museums. Paul Stewart, from the Underground Railroad Museum in Albany, will talk about Stephen and Harriet Myers, African Americans whose home was a station for the enslaved fleeing to Canada in the mid-19th century. Stephen Myers was born enslaved in the town of Hoosick about 1800 and was freed in the 1820s. The second speaker, Paul Cole, represents the new Kate Mullaney Museum in Troy, NY. Kate Mullaney was a late 19th -century worker in the backbreaking laundry industry in Troy. Cole will speak about the history of trade unionism in the United States, a movement in which Mullaney made a mark as one of the first women in union leadership. For our readers, we have a free “book swap.” If you have nonfiction historically themed books, bring one to donate, and perhaps take home a free one for yourself. The highlight of the Fair is back: the free trolley ride to and from the Bennington Battlefield with guides to answer questions and share our amazing history. The Moose Kaboose food truck will cater a chicken Barbeque lunch in the Wood Memorial Park from 11:00 AM until they are sold out. The meal includes half chicken with sides and homemade and chocolate chip cookies for dessert. Tickets can be purchased for $15 each. To preorder your tickets, please contact the Hoosick Township Historical Society at 518-686-4682. Proceeds from the barbeque will benefit the Friends of Bennington Battlefield and the Hoosick Township Historical Society. Mark your calendars, spend all day or only a short time, but make plans to come to Hoosick Falls!