05 January 2019

Genealogy & History Programs at HVCC

The following was cut and pasted from the web site of Hudson Valley Community College's Office of Community and Professional Education.

Below are upcoming inexpensive non-credit programs for anyone interested in local history and genealogy. Contact the Hudson Valley office for further information:

Office of Community and Professional EducationPhone: (518) 629-7339
Fax: (518) 629-8103
Location: Guenther Enrollment Services Center, Room 252

Registration begins January 17.

Checks and Balances: Congress vs. the Presidency
This is an examination of how the Founding Fathers separated, then checked and balanced power in our political system. The Constitutional roots of this essential political structure in our democracy will be studied, with case examples from American history, including presidential impeachment and other struggles between the branches of government. Current and recent examples of checks and balances and their effectiveness will be discussed.
61157
$39
3 Sessions, DCC B06
Mon., 4/1 - 4/15, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Henry Bankhead, Instructor

Two Presentations in One!
The Story of Betsy Doyle: A Woman of Courage and Strength in the War of 1812
Betsy Doyle lived near Fort Niagara where her husband, Andrew (born in Canada) served in the US Army during the War of 1812. Andrew was taken prisoner by the British and sent to London to stand trial as a traitor to the Crown. After the fall of Fort Niagara, Betsy had nowhere to turn for shelter for herself and her children. So began her winter journey for shelter and to find out what happened to Andrew. Her destination? Greenbush Cantonment.
The History of Hampton Manor: From the Beginning to the Present
Join us for a talk on the area now known as Hampton Manor and learn about its history before the development of the houses, during the housing development, the more historical homes in Hampton Manor and community activities of the past and present.
61088
$12
1 Session, WIL 113
Mon., 4/8, 9:30 - 11:45 a.m.
Bobbie Reno, Instructor

Woman’s Work: Female Spies in the Civil War
During the Civil War there were thousands of spies of all kinds - Union, Confederate, official, unofficial, black, white, effective or ineffective. Of the thousands, probably several hundred were women. This was an unlikely group, but a fairly successful one. This is a brief exploration of the espionage careers of some of the more notorious agents from both sides, including Elizabeth Van Lew and Kate Warne from the Union side, and Belle Boyd and Rose Greenhow from the Confederate side, among many others. Many of their exploits were daring and quite successful, and make for great stories.
61091
$12
1 Session, WIL 113
Tues., 3/26, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Jim Cochran, Instructor
First Lady Dolley Madison: The Toast of Washington City
In 1809, when “Lady President” Dolley Madison and her husband President James Madison took residence in the “President’s Palace” – the White House – it was an unfinished and unfurnished hull. Washington City, as it was then known, was a rustic, muddy town with few public buildings and a curious political code. While her husband dealt with issues of international and domestic affairs, Dolley began transforming the White House into a welcoming, tastefully decorated public space. She crafted a social climate that fostered personal alliances, earned the respect of foreign emissaries, and promoted national unity.
At her lively parties, politicians and regular people mingled within a structure of polite behavior and personal interaction, forging connections that could serve the interests of the nation as a whole. In this presentation, we will explore Dolley Madison’s legacy and accomplishments, and find out why she remained the social center of Washington long after her husband’s death.
61089
$37
1 Session, WIL 113
Wed., 3/27, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Historic Interpreter Phyllis Chapman, Instructor
The Hudson Mohawk Region: The Silicon Valley of the 19th Century
The Capital District is widely considered to be one of the birthplaces of the American Industrial Revolution. An unparalleled crossroads of transportation led 19th century entrepreneurs to flock to this area. They used the cutting- edge technology of their day to transform the dominant rural-agrarian lifestyle into an infrastructure devoted to advancement of an American industrial enterprise. Developments in transportation, including the Erie Canal and railroads, were coupled with development of investment banking resources, as well as advanced educational opportunity, to lead to our modern urban-industrial way of life. Inventions and developments here produced many of the components of our modern lifestyle, such as mass production of practical clothing, labor-saving devices, mass-produced food and effective labor organizations. Their clear understanding of the cultural dimension of this technological change gave direction to some highly celebrated engineering innovations.
61109
$25
1 Session, WIL 113
Fri., 5/3, 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Michael Barrett, Instructor
New Discoveries: Researching the Abolitionist Movement in Rensselaer County
Join Kathy Sheehan, Rensselaer County and Troy City historian, as she discusses information uncovered in recent years about the abolitionist movement. This presentation includes research on the Baltimore Family and information gleaned from the Troy Savings Bank Archives. We never get to write the last line in history, and new scholarship is always coming to the surface from unlikely sources. This is a lecture not to be missed.
61115
$15
1 Session, WIL 113
Wed., 4/17, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Kathryn Sheehan, Instructor

TWO PRESENTATIONS IN ONE!
Schuyler Mansion: The House and the Sisters Who Lived There
The Schuyler Women
The Schuyler Sisters have been causing quite a stir in the Broadway musical “Hamilton: An American Musical,” but did you know that there were actually five sisters? Learn what it was like growing up in the wealthy Schuyler household during this in-depth look at the history of the Schuyler women, which centers on their daily lives and the impact they had in shaping their family’s history.
The Restoration of Schuyler Mansion: Tradition and Technology Accomplish the Impossible
For the 100 years that Schuyler Mansion has been an historic site open to the public, a restoration of the Ruins of Rome and a glorious papier-mâché ceiling have been, it seems, impossible to accomplish. Learn how advances in technology and new techniques have helped restore the mansion to the grandeur of the 18th century. Other fascinating projects will be highlighted as well, along with a peek into what’s in store for future restorations.
61116
$15
1 Session, WIL 113
Mon., 3/25, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Heidi Hill, Instructor

DNA & Genealogy: A Beginner’s Guide
New to the world of genealogy and DNA? The television commercials make it look so easy, but can you really use your DNA test to help discover your family history? Professional genealogist Lisa Dougherty will outline the basics of both traditional genealogy research and understanding your DNA test. Learn how to combine the two and make important discoveries in your family history!
61086
$15
1 Session, WIL 113
Tues., 3/12, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Lisa Dougherty, Instructor

DNA Testing for Genealogy - Beyond the Basics
DNA testing can be a powerful tool for finding living family, confirming your paper trail research, and debunking family myths. Find out how to use your matches to achieve these goals, and how to branch out from Ancestry DNA to find different matches and more sophisticated tools, without paying for another test. Join professional genealogist Lisa Dougherty for a guide to taking your DNA test to the next level! (This class is for those who have already taken a DNA test and have received their results.)
61080
$15
1 Session, WIL 113
Tues., 4/16, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Lisa Dougherty, Instructor

Ten Broeck Mansion Tour with Tea
The elegant Ten Broeck Mansion was the home of two of Albany’s most prominent families. It was originally built in 1798 as a Federal-style country home for merchant and Mayor Abraham Ten Broeck, who had served as a major general of the Albany militia during the Revolutionary War and distinguished himself at the Second Battle of Saratoga in 1777. Architectural details from this period include a delicate roof balustrade on the outside and a superb spiral staircase within. In 1848, the home became the residence of banker and philanthropist Thomas Worth Olcott and underwent modifications that included the addition of Greek Revival porticos to the doorways and marble mantels in the main first-floor rooms. Arrive early and after parking at the rear of the mansion gardens, stroll the tulip-filled path to enter the mansion and have a tour followed by a lovely tea. Course fee includes $15 materials fee.
60959
$27
1 Session, meet at Ten Broeck Mansion
Tues., 5/21, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Jean Chenette Coordinator

Knickerbocker Family Mansion - Ghosts, Tour and Lunch
The Knickerbocker Historical Society will be our hosts as they tell us about the history of the Knickerbocker Mansion, which dates from about 1770. They will arrange for historical ‘ghosts’ to give moving first-hand accounts of their lives and experiences, and they will explain the renovations – the not-for-profit Society rescued the mansion from certain demolition and has continued to restore it. Our visit concludes with a chance to tour the mansion and to a colonial lunch cooked with authentic recipes, a delicious side to the history of the mansion. Course fee includes $25 materials fee.
60018
$35
1 Session, meet at Knickerbocker Family Mansion
Thurs., 5/16, 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Marie D’Entrone, Coordinator

Tour & Book at the Batcheller Mansion
On this outing, participants are treated to a first-person tour of the Batcheller Mansion by Mr. George S. Batcheller, portrayed by local author and Victorian historian Hollis Palmer. The Batcheller Mansion is an icon of Saratoga. Built in 1873-74, the house had to be finished in time to host a reception for President Grant. Though the outside may look imposing, those who have been inside have experienced the house’s true magnificence and warmth. The entire experience takes about 90 minutes and allows guests to appreciate what it was like to live in the Victorian house the New York Times called “Saratoga’s Crowning Glory.” Course fee includes $20 materials fee.
61081
$32
1 Session, meet at Batcheller Mansion
Thurs., 3/21, 1 - 3 p.m.
Paula Johanessen, Coordinator

A Visit to the Burden Iron Works Museum
Located in the former office of one of the most important firms in the history of iron and steel, the Burden Iron Works museum covers the industries that made Troy one of the birthplaces of the American Industrial Revolution. Among other things, the area gave the world the detachable collar and cuff, the hook headed railroad spike, the armor for the USS Monitor, machine-made horseshoes at a rate of 51 million a year, the modern fire hydrant, heating and cooking stoves and so much more. Course fee includes $10 materials fee.
60949
$22
1 Session, meet at Burden Iron Works Museum
Fri., 3/29, 10 a.m. - noon
Marie D’Entrone, Coordinator

The Saugerties Lighthouse
Join us at the Saugerties Lighthouse, an 1869 landmark on the Hudson River that now stands proudly as a living museum and a renowned bed and breakfast. Step back in time over a hundred years to experience the charm and rustic simplicity of life in the middle of the river. The Saugerties Lighthouse Conservancy maintains the lighthouse and adjacent lands for the enjoyment of the public. The restored, red-brick lighthouse offers overnight bed and breakfast accommodations, public tours and special events. Furnished as it may have looked in the early 20th century, the lighthouse contains a small museum, gift shop, parlor, kitchen, keepers’ quarters, and two guest bedrooms. The operational light tower offers a panoramic view of the Hudson River Valley and Catskill Mountains. Because of its location on the river, tours must be scheduled with tide schedules in mind. The lighthouse can be reached via a half-mile nature trail of dirt and rock paths with wooden bridges and boardwalks and sandy trails. It is at the end of Lighthouse Drive in the village of Saugerties, New York. Suitable, comfortable shoes are recommended. Course fee includes $8 materials fee.
60470
$18
1 Session, meet at the lighthouse, Saugerties, NY
Thur., 5/9, noon - 1:30 p.m.
Linda Lyden, Coordinator

Visit Historic Grant’s Cottage
Ulysses S. Grant, hero of the Civil War and 18th President of the United States, died at Grant Cottage, in the town of Wilton, NY, on July 23, 1885. When the clock on the mantel was stopped at 8:08 a.m., the hour and minute of Grant’s passing, time itself stopped within Grant Cottage. The rooms and their furnishings are as they were that sad morning of Grant’s death.
As well as touring the cottage and hearing about the General’s tragic but ultimately triumphant and inspiring final year, guide Steve Trimm will share little-known and fascinating stories about U.S. Grant. Grant Cottage is full of marvelous and unexpected tales. A walk out to Promontory Point on a clear day is amazing, with views of the Berkshires, Green and Adirondack Mountains. This is a two-and-a-half hour program with a lot of standing and walking. Please wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking on paved and uneven surfaces and dress for the weather. Course fee includes $10 materials fee.
60457
$20
1 Session, meeting at the Grant Cottage Visitor’s Center
Mon., 5/13, 10 - 12:30 p.m.
Lea Darling, Coordinator

Walking Tour of Troy’s Historic Washington Park, Surrounding Homes and Artists Studio with Tea
Enjoy taking a step back in time to the mid-1800’s to see and experience the genteel living of the nouveau rich of Troy’s Washington Park, surrounding neighborhoods and newly-added artist enclave. You will be able to see firsthand the care taken to rehabilitate and update many of these one-of-a-kind homes. You will see many different types of architecture, including Greek Revival, Gothic Revival, Italianate and Queen Anne. We may even see a restoration in progress at one of the homes. Recently, several artists have been setting up studios in this rich cultural area, and we will visit one or more. A tea reception will be held in our last home visit on the tour.
There will be lots of walking on mostly uneven surfaces: sidewalks, grass, roads, and some home interiors with multiple flights of stairs, climbing up and down. Be mindful of your capabilities to keep up with the group as we have a tight schedule to adhere to for the 2 1/2 hour tour. Wear comfortable walking shoes as you will be on your feet for all of the tour. Course fee includes $10 materials fee.
60460
$20
1 Session, meet in Washington Park across from the front of 195 2nd Street
Thurs., 5/23, 10 - 12:30 p.m.
Cynthia Serbent, Coordinator

The State Education Building
The Education Building of the State of New York was completed in 1912 and was the first major governmental building constructed exclusively for educational purposes. The tour begins with a look at the architectural elements of the building. Inside, it includes stops at the Liberty Bell, the Rotunda, the mural paintings, the Regents Room, and concludes with a viewing of the monumental artwork “The Genius of America” in Chancellor Hall. Please bring photo identification.
61095
$12
1 Session, meet at 89 Washington Ave, Albany
Sat., 4/6, 12:30 - 2 p.m.
Marie D’Entrone, Coordinator

Unique Schoharie Tour - History, Eggs, Folk Art and More
We will visit several unique Schoharie County sites. See the Mildred Vrooman Easter Egg Collection with thousands of hand-painted eggs. Marvel at egg dioramas: U.S. Presidents, 1st Thanksgiving, a circus and more. Join us to tour the 18th century Colonel Peter Vrooman house, with original features including Dutch doors, wide plank floors, ancient beams, and unexplained markings. Hear interesting stories about the house and its owners. This is the first time the house has been opened for tours by the present owners. We’ll also visit a covered bridge and Old Stone Fort Museum and conclude with a delicious lunch at the Apple Barrel Country Store and Cafe, the Capital Region’s longest running country store. Please note parts of this trip are not handicap accessible. Course fee includes $37 materials fee.
61120
$49
1 Session, Meet at Old Stone Fort
Wed., 4/17
Berna Heyman, Coordinator

Crailo: the Dutch Lifestyle 350 Years Ago
Crailo, the museum of the Colonial Dutch in the Hudson River Valley, offers so much to discover. Join us for a tour on the foodways and domesticity in the 17th century colony of New Netherland. By closely examining archaeological artifacts, historic reproductions, documents and Dutch genre paintings, a rich picture of the Dutch lifestyle 350 years ago along the Hudson River is revealed. The tour will end in Crailo’s kitchen cellar where a costumed interpreter will share recipes, cooking techniques and typical menus of a Dutch American home of the 1600s. Course fee includes $4 materials fee.
61122
$14
1 Session, Meet at Crailo
Tues., 3/19, 10 a.m. - noon
Marie D’Entrone, Coordinator

Tour the American Italian Heritage Museum
The American Italian Heritage Museum is the largest Italian American Museum in the east, ten rooms of exhibits plus a gift shop. The mission of the museum is to honor the region’s Italian immigrants, tell their story and showcase the contribution of Italian Americans. Professor Philip J. DiNovo is the museum’s founder and president, and in 1994 he was knighted by the Italian government for his years of service to the Italian American community. Come visit and absorb some of the immigrant experience. Course fee includes $5 materials fee.
61121
$15
1 Session, American Italian Heritage Museum
Fri., 3/22, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Jean Chenette, Coordinator

Gravestone Restoration
In honor of Mother’s Day, Historic St. Agnes Cemetery will host a gravestone restoration workshop focusing on the graves of women and children. Tragically, this Victorian-era cemetery, like most of its kind, serves as the final resting place for thousands of mothers and children who were unfortunate victims of a time when medical care and medicines were primitive and often ineffective. Some statistics note infant mortality in the 19th century as high as 50 percent before the age of one year. Childbirth was dangerous and too often fatal. Over time the memorials to these poor souls have suffered the effects of the elements and need cleaning and repair. This special workshop is a way for us to remember the lives of mothers and children gone too soon. Materials for cleaning and simple repair are provided. You will need to bring waterproof work gloves, a plastic trowel and a spade for digging. Refreshments and bottled water provided. Feel free to bring lunch or order from a local deli. Restroom facilities are on site in our Visitors Center located in St. Agnes Cemetery. Course fee includes $15 materials fee.
61067
$25
1 Session, St. Agnes Cemetery
Fri., 5/10, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Kelly Grimaldi, Instructor

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