Earthquake imagery

New York State Museum Earthquake Center

Ongoing Exhibition
Discovery Place

While most people associate earthquakes with California, New York State does experience an average of 18 earthquakes per year. Although most of these quakes are not strong enough to be felt by residents, New York has endured a few large and destructive events throughout its history.

Visit the NYSM's ongoing earthquake exhibit to gain a greater understanding of both local earthquakes and significant events happening around the world.

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Map displaying earthquake activity in New York State
Northeast earthquakes over the past 100 years.

Seismic Activity

Interactive displays include a real-time seismographic showcase, allowing you to observe ongoing seismic activity around the world and understand how earthquakes are measured. From minor tremors to the notable 1944 St. Lawrence County quake, this exhibit provides a comprehensive look at New York's earthquake history, impact, and monitoring.

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Schist
Calc-silicate schist, Lake George, NY

Geological Specimens on View

This exhibit features a captivating array of geological specimens, including folded, faulted, and polished rocks that vividly illustrating the forces created during quakes.

Fun Facts: Did you know?!

  • Hundreds of earthquakes have and continue to occur in and near New York. These are mostly small events located within about nine miles of the surface.
  • On September 4, 1944, New York endured it's largest earthquake measuring 5.8. Centered between Massena, NY, and Cornwall, Ontario, Canada, it caused an estimated two million dollars in damage to the two cities. 
  • Other notable New York earthquakes include the 5.5 magnitude quake in New York City in 1884, the magnitude 5.6 quake in Attica in 1929, and the 5.1 magnitude quake in Blue Mountain Lake in 1983..
Roadway destroyed in an earthquake

View this Exhibit Online!

Visit this online feature to learn more about the Earthquake! exhibit, to access resources that monitor seismic activity in upstate New York, and to view the geological specimens that illustrate the effects of earthquake forces.