Four historic groups spanning the US and Canada border have come together to create, In the Footsteps of the Ancestors, a series of unique, custom-designed tours running September 29th through October 4th, that will provide guests with an opportunity to explore history through immersive activities.
Johnson Hall Historic Site, Johnstown Historical Society, Fort Plain Museum & Historical Park, and UE Loyalists Bridge Annex, a charter branch of the United Empire Loyalists’ Association of Canada (UELAC), created the unique program of events, many not typically part of public programming.
While the complexities of the Revolutionary War may have divided colonial Mohawk Valley, in the spirit of friendship and shared belief in preserving and exploring the legacy of those who were once neighbors, friends, and family, the groups worked together to build “hands-on history” experiences.
The week explores the complex history of the Mohawk Valley through a series of themed experiences:
Sunday, September 29th – Johnson Hall Comes to Life!: Experience life at Johnson Hall with “Who Were the People in Your Neighbourhood?” program where attendees can meet characters who once lived and worked on Sir William Johnson’s estate; enjoy lunch onsite, and guided tours of the house and grounds.
Monday, September 30th – Divided Loyalties: Revolution in the Mohawk Valley: Explore the complex history of choosing sides during the American Revolution at Fort Plain Museum including a guided walking tour of Historical Park; enjoy lunch at Ayres House in Fort Plain, and a private tour of Fort Frey
Tuesday, October 1st – Mourning in the Afternoon: As mourners, attendees will experience 18th Century Death & Mourning at Johnson Hall; then end the day with an evening ghost walk in the Colonial Cemetery.
Wednesday, October 2nd – A Tour Back to Colonial Johnstown: Tour historic Johnstown sites including private tours of the Johnstown Museum, Drumm House, and St. John’s Episcopal Church; followed by an evening of 18th Century Merriment at the Burk Inn with traditional chocolate drinks and music.
Thursday, October 3rd – Stepping into the Heat of Battle: Guided walking tour of the Battle of Johnstown followed by lunch at Johnson Hall; Supper & Private Viewing of artifacts at St. Patrick’s Masonic Lodge est. 1766 by Sir Wm. Johnson; and evening lecture by Eric Schnitzer about his new book, Campaign to Saratoga – 1777: The Turning Point of the Revolutionary War in Paintings, Artifacts, and Historical Narrative, part of Fort Plain Museum & Historical Park Lecture Series.
Friday, October 4th – Revisit the 1780 “Burning of the Valleys” Campaign: Tour key battle sites including: Stone Arabia Churches; Palatine Church; followed by Lunch, Lecture & Tour at Fort Klock; Private Tour of Nellis Tavern. A day of reflecting on the chaos of war amidst the natural beauty of the region.
Spaces are limited to provide greater engagement and interaction. Individuals are encouraged to reserve as soon as possible. For more information or to register, click here, or email explorehistorymv2019@gmail.com.
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