Boldt Castle [NY]

Description

At the turn-of-the-century, George C. Boldt (1851–1916), millionaire proprietor of the world famous Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, set out to build a full size Rhineland castle in Alexandria Bay, on picturesque Heart Island. The grandiose structure was to be a display of his love for his wife, Louise. On the death of his wife in 1904, construction was ceased. The site tells of the Boldts' lifestyle and the history of the 1000 Islands region. There are a total of six structures: the Castle; the Power House, which was inspired by Medieval architecture and contains a period steam engine; the Alster Tower, used for entertainment purposes; the Hennery, containing a water tank and pigeon house; the Arch, modeled after Roman monuments, and a stone Gazebo.

Boldt Castle offers a 15 minute film, exhibits, and self-guided tours.

Manlius Historical Society [NY]

Description

The Manlius Historical Society aims to preserve and heighten awareness of the history of the town of Manlius, New York. To this end, the society maintains a museum. The Manlius Historical Museum has several permanent displays, including a replica schoolroom and general store. Attached to the museum is an authentic working Blacksmith Shop and an authentic (non-working) Outhouse. The Cheney House Research Center and Library contains archives and genealogy files.

The society offers archival access and museum exhibits.

Old Economy Village [PA]

Description

Old Economy Village interprets the history of the Harmony Society, a highly successful 19th-century religious communal society, and preserves and interprets the unique material culture of the Society during its period of residence in Beaver County, PA, for citizens of and visitors to the Commonwealth.

The site offers tours, exhibits, educational programs, workshops, and occasional recreational and educational events.

Honesdale Fire Museum [PA]

Description

The Honesdale Fire Museum hosts an impressive collection of fire equipment and memorabilia which is centered around the 1874 Silsby steamer no. 483 and its replacement, the 1936 Seagrave triple combination pumper. Displays also include other pieces of historic firefighting memorabilia, including photographs and helmets.

The museum offers both public and private guided tours by appointment. The website offers basic visitor information.

Lower East Side Tenement Museum National Historic Site [NY]

Description

The Lower East Side Tenement Museum is located in a historic tenement that was home to roughly 7,000 people between 1863 and 1935. Today, the building stands as a historic museum, where visitors can tour the cramped living space and learn about the lives of past residents of the building.

The museum offers presentations, special events such as plays, art exhibits, and readings that represent the immigrant experience, and guided tours. The website offers a history of the site, along with lesson plans for students, visitor information, and a virtual tour of the museum.

Gomez Mill House Museum [NY]

Description

The Gomez Mill House, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, is the oldest standing Jewish Dwelling in North America. Built in 1720, the home was originally intended as a trading post for local colonists. Today, the home is open to visitors as a historic house museum.

The home offers tours, exhibits, and special events, including educational activities and guest lecturers. The website offers visitor information, a history of the building, information on all past occupants, and information regarding upcoming events.

Franklin County Historical Society – Kittochtinny [Pennsylvania]

Description

The "Old Jail" at 175 East King Street in Chambersburg, PA, is home to the Society. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970, the Old Jail also houses a museum and genealogical library. The Society also owns and maintains the Brown's Mill School (a primary school in use from 1836–1921).

The society offers research library access, tours, and lectures; the museum offers exhibits and tours; the school offers access.

St. Lawrence County Historical Association [NY]

Description

The St. Lawrence County Historical Association seeks to preserve and share the history of St. Lawrence County, New York. To this end, the association operates an archival center and a museum located within the 1833 Silas Wright House.

The association offers archival access, a Civil War discussion group, period rooms, and exhibits. The website offers genealogy-based lesson plans.