October is New York State History Month

Originally, November was designated as New York State History Month by the New York State Legislature in 1997 with the addition of Section 57.02 to the state’s Arts and Cultural Affairs Law.

Since many history-related organizations close after Columbus Day, legislation was passed in 2019 that changed History Month to October to allow for more organizational participation and to align with the state’s Path Through History Weekend.

New York State History Month represents an opportunity for historians and cultural institutions to assert the vital importance of preserving and learning about the state’s history. It is also a time to engage with the public through programs and learning opportunities about the history of New York State and the ways in which we can help preserve our history.

The New York State Museum will host several virtual programs to celebrate NYS History Month. Programs will begin at 10 am, and include Virtual Field Trip: Going for a Ride in FDR’s 1932 Packard on October 14th; Virtual Field Trip: Treasures from the NYSM’s Collections on October 21st; and Virtual Field Trip: Treasures from the New York State Museum’s Collections on October 28th.

How can history related organiztions get involved?

The New York State Museum encourages historians, museums, historic sites, archives, and libraries across the state to join us in presenting events, tours, lectures, discussions, publications, and exhibitions that highlight the importance of New York State history and the role history community professional and the public play in preserving it.

Any historical or cultural organization hosting programs for New York State History Month is encouraged to use the New York State History Month logo in their marketing. It is recommended that Path Through History sites also use the Path Through History logo.

To submit your New York State History Month event for inclusion on the statewide ILOVENY.com event calendar, please contact your county Tourism Promotion Agency for assistance.

To submit your event for consideration to be included on the Path Through History event calendar, go to: www.iloveny.com/events/submit-your-event/. Check the criteria for event submissions, to make sure your event qualifies. Events can also use the hashtag #NYSHistoryMonth.

For more information about New York State History Month, including events, exhibitions, and more, you can visit the New York State Museum’s History Month website.