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The New York State Museum will celebrate New York State History Month in November with a variety of free public programs for children, families and adults.

“November is New York State History Month,” said State Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia. “Across the state, New Yorkers of all ages can learn about the Empire State’s history at museums, libraries and cultural institutions. The Board of Regents and I invite everyone – students, teachers, families – to attend a history program in their community and learn more about New York State history.”

“To understand New York is to understand America. New York State History Month is a great time for New Yorkers to celebrate our state’s extraordinary history,” said State Museum Director Mark Schaming. “The State Museum, along with thousands of cultural institutions across the state, is pleased to offer a variety of history programs for the community during New York State History Month.”

Below is a schedule of free New York State History Month programs at the State Museum. 

Cinema Sunday: Grand Central Station
November 1, 2:00pm
A film chronicling the history of New York City’s Grand Central Station.

Conversation with a Curator: 10 Minute Talk
Thursday, November 5 & 12 at 1:00pm | Sunday, November 15 at 12:30pm | Thursday, November 19 at 11:00am
Participate in a quick conversation with a historian and curator about an artifact that is especially unique or intriguing.

Creative Art Day: Represent: Contemporary Native American Art
November 8, 1:00 – 3:00pm
Families are welcome to participate in a creative art activity based on the Museum’s contemporary Native American art exhibition.

The Brothers Vonnegut Talk Presented by Author Ginger Strand
November 19, 7:30pm
Author Ginger Strand will talk about her new book, The Brothers Vonnegut. This talk is a featured public event of the Researching New York Conference. 

A Day in the Life of the Shakers
November 28, 1:00 – 4:00pm
Children and families can get a glimpse into what life was like for Shaker children in this special Shaker Kids Space program.

Weitsman Stoneware Collection Lecture and Book Signing
November 29, 1:00 – 2:30pm
Senior historian emeritus John Scherer will discuss the recently published book Art for the People: Decorated Stoneware from the Weitsman Collection, featuring the Museum’s extensive stoneware collection. Books will be available for purchase through the Museum Shop.

Shaker Weaving Project
November 29, 2:00 – 4:00pm
Families are invited to create a placemat using Shaker weaving methods. 

The Museum has also created a website to celebrate New York State History Month: http://exhibitions.nysm.nysed.gov/historymonth/. The website features a schedule of State Museum History Month programs, educational resources, and a “New York Minutes” feature which includes a New York State history fact of the day for every day in November.

In 1997, November was established as New York State History Month by the New York State Legislature. The goal was “to celebrate the history of New York state and recognize the contributions of state and local historians”. New York State History Month represents the opportunity for historians, museums, and cultural institutions to highlight the importance of New York State’s history through public programs, exhibitions and other learning opportunities.

The New York State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department's Office of Cultural Education. Located on Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.  It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Admission is free. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or visiting the Museum website at www.nysm.nysed.gov.