History & Genealogy 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

Email: communityed@hvcc.edu

Location: Guenther Enrollment Services Center, Room 252

Registration begins January 19th.

Town of Watervliet into the City of Watervliet

This fascinating program discusses the Town of Watervliet’s colonial origin from the manor of Rensselaerwyck to the fragmentation of the town from its founding in 1788 into smaller towns and villages. It also documents the changes that resulted in the transformation of the Town of Watervliet into the City of Watervliet. We’ll discuss the significance of three of these villages – Port Schuyler (formerly Washington) Gibbonsville and West Troy – and their merger into the incorporated Village of West Troy and then the City of Watervliet in 1896. Instructor Tom Ragosta.

Monday, 4/11
9:30 am - 11:30 am
$22

Oakwood Cemetery Walking Tour

Founded in 1848, Oakwood Cemetery in Troy was one of the first “rural cemeteries” in the country, with serpentine roads, lovely landscaping and beautiful monuments. We’ll stroll along Millionaire’s Row and hear fascinating stories about some of the influential citizens of 19th century Troy as well as interesting tales of some not-so-famous ‘residents.’ We’re always adding new stories when we discover them! Our walk will be highlighted by stops at the site where HBO filming was done for “The Golden Age” and at the panoramic overlook where you can see the Cohoes Falls, the Hudson and Mohawk Rivers and sometimes even a soaring hawk or bald eagle. Dress appropriately for the weather and wear good walking shoes. You might want to bring bottled water as well. This slow-paced walk is approximately 1.5 miles round trip and is on mainly level paved roads with one or two dirt paths. Course fee includes $15 materials fee. Heidi Norton Klinowski, Instructor Paula Johannesen, Coordinator.

Wednesday, 4/27
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
$25

Irish Genealogy - A Fresh Approach

Have you been researching your Irish ancestry and run into brick walls? Tired of seeing all those records that just say “Ireland”? Fed up with ancestors with the same name? It’s time for a new approach! Join genealogist-in-residence for the Irish American Heritage Museum Lisa Dougherty for some new ideas to locate that elusive place of origin for your Irish family!

Tuesday, 3/22
9:30 am - 11:30 am
$15

Getting Started With Your Family History

Genealogy, or the study of family history, has been described as the “fastest-growing hobby in America.” With the popularity of television shows like “Who Do You Think You Are,” the trend of giving DNA kits as gifts and the reconnecting of distant relatives using social media, it’s no wonder more Americans than ever before are interested in discovering their roots. Professional genealogist Lisa Dougherty will help you get started in the pursuit of your own family history by offering guidelines for gathering information, effectively using DNA testing and social media, and organizing your research.

Tuesday, 4/26
9:30 am - 11:30 am
$15

Let Those Meneely Bells Ring

We all have heard about them, some may have even seen a few, but the background of the Meneely bells is absolutely fascinating in the Troy area. Come get the scoop and hear all about them. What they were made of? How they were tuned? Where are they now? Find out the difference between a chime, a carillon and a peel. Instructor Gene Burns will share his experiences and fascinating knowledge.

Monday, 4/25
9:30 am - 11:30 am
$22