For centuries, humans had been interacting with the geology and environment of Upstate New York, but when construction of the Erie Canal commenced in 1817, the vastness of the project and the environment that it would cut through became its largest obstacle. [Read more…] about Through the Mire: Erie Canal Environmental History
Rome Historical Society
The 49th Fighter Interceptor Squadron
From its beginning in 1941 at Hamilton Field, CA through 1987 when it called Griffiss Air Force Base near Rome, NY, home, the 49th Fighter Interceptor Squadron had a pivotal role in the air defense of North America during the Cold War. [Read more…] about The 49th Fighter Interceptor Squadron
Conservation Grant Awardees Announced
The New York State Council of the Arts and Greater Hudson Heritage Network Grant Program now offer three opportunities for collecting institutions in New York State including Conservation Treatment Grants, Preservation Supplies Grants, and Site Assessment Grants. [Read more…] about Conservation Grant Awardees Announced
July 4th Ceremony at American Revolution Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers
The Rome Rotary Club in partnership with the Rome Historical Society will hold their Independence Day Observance at 10:00 am on Tuesday, July 4th at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers of the American Revolution located on the corner of James and Liberty Streets in Rome, NY. [Read more…] about July 4th Ceremony at American Revolution Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers
The Rome, NY Colonels Baseball History
In the early 20th century Rome, NY was a baseball town with many outstanding teams playing in various pro, semi-pro, and industrial leagues. One of those leagues was the Canadian American (Can-Am) which came to the city in 1937 and would continue through 1951. [Read more…] about The Rome, NY Colonels Baseball History
Women’s Social Organizations in Rome NY
In recognition of Women’s History Month, Diane Miller will present a program on the rise of women’s social organizations in Rome, Oneida County, NY, at the turn of the 20th century. [Read more…] about Women’s Social Organizations in Rome NY
Revivalism and Educational Reform: Roots in Oneida County
Three notable 19th century religious and education figures started their paths to national fame in Westernville, Oneida County, NY: Rev. Charles Grandison Finney, Rev. George Washington Gale and Theodore Dwight Weld. [Read more…] about Revivalism and Educational Reform: Roots in Oneida County
Oneida Wampum: Ceremonial, Ornamental, Diplomatic and Commercial
For generations, the Indigenous people in the northeast region of North America have used wampum, onikó:lha’ (o knee goal), for ceremonial, ornamental, diplomatic and commercial purposes. Wampum has represented friendship, alliances, and rank. In some cases, it is considered part of the historical record. [Read more…] about Oneida Wampum: Ceremonial, Ornamental, Diplomatic and Commercial
Airplane Tales From Central NY and Rome Army Airfield
The Rome Historical Society will host “Airplane Tales II,” a program with aviation historian James “Jim” Coulthart set for Wednesday, December 21st. [Read more…] about Airplane Tales From Central NY and Rome Army Airfield
Holiday Music & Traditions of the Mohawk Valley
Colonial America was a melting pot of people from varied nations and traditions. The Puritans of New England did not celebrate Christmas at all. The early German and English immigrants to the Mohawk Valley were more accustomed to celebrating the holiday. In combining elements from various cultures, America developed its own unique traditions.
The custom of burning the Yule Log goes back to before medieval times. Yule is the name of the old Winter Solstice festivals in Scandinavia and other parts of northern Europe, such as Germany. From 1659 to 1681, the celebration of Christmas was outlawed in Boston, and law-breakers were fined five shillings. [Read more…] about Holiday Music & Traditions of the Mohawk Valley