Markers being refurbished in anticipation of this year’s National Historic Marker Day. The Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS) will host an unveiling of the recently refurbished Ross Schoolhouse marker along with commemorative museum activities on April 26. (Submitted photo)

NORWICH – The Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS) will host a special unveiling of the recently refurbished marker commemorating the museum’s one-room Ross Schoolhouse at 7:30 a.m. on April 26. First restored by the Norwich Kiwanis Club in 1979, the schoolhouse served Preston’s District 3 between 1850 and 1917.

The unveiling is being held on National Historic Marker Day to honor the New York State Department of Transportation sign crew who have been helping to prepare and reposition the sign, as well as the local historians who have worked to retrieve and ensure refurbishment of this roadside attraction. As part of the morning’s festivities, Kandi’s Kitchen food truck will have breakfast available in the museum’s parking lot from 7-9:30 a.m. The Ross Schoolhouse will be open for tours and commemorative activities during the museum’s regular operating hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. that day.

Launched by the William G. Pomeroy Foundation in 2021, National Historic Marker Day brings people together to maintain local markers as a way to celebrate and preserve history. The refurbished Ross Schoolhouse historic marker will soon be installed near the structure’s original site in Preston.

“National Historic Marker Day is a terrific way to show our appreciation for those who have preserved our community treasures,” said Jessica Moquin, CCHS executive director. “We are grateful for the refurbishment and reinstallation of these landmarks which help to share our unique local history across Chenango County.”

First established in 1939, CCHS is the primary organization dedicated to actively and comprehensively preserving the history of Chenango County. The area’s premier heritage museum, the organization celebrates local culture – unique traditions, noteworthy residents, and unusual stories of the region. CCHS programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

The William G. Pomeroy Foundation is committed to supporting the celebration and preservation of community history. Established in 2005, the Pomeroy Foundation is a private, philanthropic organization located in Syracuse. As the nation’s leading funder of historical roadside markers, the Pomeroy Foundation has awarded more than 2,200 grants for markers and bronze plaques in 48 states.

The mission of the Chenango County Historical Society and Museum is to explore the culture of Chenango County through preservation and presentation of local heritage.

- Information from the CCHS