Experience “The Early Years of the Revolutionary War as a Militia Soldier” on Aug. 3 with historic reenactor George Cummings as part of “Saturday Summer Series” hosted by the Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS). Sponsored by the Otis A. Thompson Foundation, the “Saturday Summer Series” is inspired by the national commemoration of America250. (Submitted photo)

NORWICH – The Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS) will offer additional programs during this inaugural season of the “Saturday Summer Series.” Created to connect community with local history in engaging ways, the series is held during select Saturday mornings.

Sponsored by the Otis A. Thompson Foundation, this year’s series is inspired by the national commemoration of America250.

The “Saturday Summer Series” places local emphasis on nationwide activities that are being hosted in honor of this historic milestone, with commemorations continuing now through 2033. Topics connect to America250 themes, such as “Changing Interpretations of the Revolution,” “Unfinished Revolutions,” and “We the People.”

On July 27, join CCHS staff from 10:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. for a film screening of “Harvest of Shame” at the Guernsey Memorial Library, located at 3 Court St. Edward R. Murrow’s 1960 documentary opened the eyes of many Americans to the situations of migrant agricultural workers, a common source of labor post-World War II. This seminal work features a farm in Chenango County, drawing a strong connection to our local history with migrant farmworkers. After the screening, CCHS staff will lead a thoughtful discussion of the themes of the film and how it connects to modern issues.

The Aug. 3 session will feature an interactive program exploring the daily life of a militia soldier during the early years of the Revolutionary War. The facilitator, George Cummings, will be in full period dress and will have many maps, muskets, and artifacts; discussion points will include the Battle of Lexington/Concord and the turning point of Saratoga in September and October of 1777. The talk will last 45 minutes, with a 15-minute question and answer period, during which museum guests will have the opportunity to examine the artifacts more closely.

“This generous investment from the Otis A. Thompson Foundation allows us to commemorate America250 in a way that is truly unique to Chenango County,” said Jessica Moquin, CCHS executive director. “We are extremely grateful for the opportunity to offer this dynamic cultural heritage programming.”

America250 is a multi-year initiative to engage people with the semiquincentennial anniversary of our country. It is an opportunity for communities to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future for the next generation and beyond.

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 – its enduring traditions, noteworthy residents, and unique stories. 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. Additional funding for the “Saturday Summer Series” has been provided by the Otis A. Thompson Foundation. For more information, visit www.ChenangoHistorical.org or call (607) 334-9227, ext. 2.

The Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS) explores the culture of Chenango County – its enduring traditions, noteworthy residents, and unique stories – through preservation and presentation of local heritage.

- Information from Chenango County Historical Society & Museum