The New York Archives Conference, which brings together archivists, manuscript curators, local historians and local government record keepers to discuss issues of mutual concern to professional holders of historical records, will be held virtually this year, and admission will be free. [Read more…] about New York Archives Conference Goes Virtual & Free
New York State Archives
NYS Archives Celebrating 50th Earth Day
In recognition of the 50th Earth Day on April 22nd, 2020, the New York State Archives is showcasing records that document the climate, pollution control and abatement, water supply management, and forest preservation and management in New York State. [Read more…] about NYS Archives Celebrating 50th Earth Day
Researching New York Conference Call for Papers
The Researching New York 2020 Conference, the only general statewide history conference, has announced a call for papers. The conference is planned for November 19-21, 2020, at the University at Albany. [Read more…] about Researching New York Conference Call for Papers
New York History Day Winners Celebrated at Fort Ti
Cole Siebels, a sophomore at Gouveneur Central School in St. Lawrence County, aspires to a career in film production. “I want to create things that people enjoy. I want to create things that bring out emotions in people,” he said.
Siebels has gained valuable school-to-work experience competing four consecutive years in the documentary category of the North Country History Day regional competition, aimed at introducing middle school and high school students to historical research and presentation skills. [Read more…] about New York History Day Winners Celebrated at Fort Ti
A Historic Day Adoptee Rights in NYS
January 15, 2020 is a significant day for adoptees in New York State. Taking effect that day is a state law that gives adult adoptees the right to obtain their own original birth certificates by applying to the Health Department (that right of access is also extended to the descendants of deceased adoptees). It was passed with overwhelming bipartisan support by the Legislature, even ultimately swaying some legislators who’d opposed such a change in past sessions.
For decades, the only way for an adult adoptee to obtain his or her own original birth certificate was by petitioning the court. Such petitions were rarely granted. [Read more…] about A Historic Day Adoptee Rights in NYS
NYS Archives Launches Collegiate Essay Competition
New York Archives magazine recently announced an essay competition to promote and recognize excellence in collegiate student research.
The purpose of the competition is to encourage undergraduate and graduate students to explore the wealth of resources held in archival repositories across New York State. [Read more…] about NYS Archives Launches Collegiate Essay Competition
Featured Records: A Surrogate Records Back Door (1648-1848)
Two record collections available online offer a different approach to surrogate court records in New York State.
Between 1786 and 1829 the Supreme Court and the county courts of common pleas shared with the Surrogate’s Courts the power to prove and record wills devising real property, and also wills whose witnesses were unable to appear in court. In addition, between 1801 and 1829 the Supreme Court had the exclusive power to prove and record wills devising real property located in several counties. [Read more…] about Featured Records: A Surrogate Records Back Door (1648-1848)
NY State Museum, Library, Archives Celebrating NYS History Month
The New York State Museum, State Library, and State Archives will celebrate New York State History Month in November with a variety of free public programs for children, families and adults. State History Month represents the opportunity for historians, museums and cultural institutions to highlight importance of New York State’s history through public programs, exhibitions and other learning opportunities.
In 1997, the New York State Legislature established November as New York State History Month with the goal “to celebrate the history of New York state and recognize the contributions of state and local historians.” The celebration had been all but abandoned by 2002, but was revived by then State Historian .
[Read more…] about NY State Museum, Library, Archives Celebrating NYS History Month
Featured Collection: NYS Underwater Land Records
This collection of applications to the Commissioners of the New York State Land Office, later the Division of Land Utilization, for grants to lands under water is located at the New York State Archives. [Read more…] about Featured Collection: NYS Underwater Land Records
New York Council for History Education Formed
The New York State Archives Partnership Trust has partnered with the National Council for History Education to form a state council – the New York Council for History Education (NYCHE).
This partnership is expected to enhance the Trust’s ability to promote historical literacy by strengthening regional networks of educators, historians and cultural organizations and providing locally focused professional development and outreach activities. [Read more…] about New York Council for History Education Formed