May 2, 2017 Meeting Minutes
Knox Historical Society Meeting May 2, 2017
The regular meeting was called to order by President Dennis Barber at 7:04 . Members attending were Nancy Frueh, Kathleen Putzig, Donna Gwin, Jayson Romanchuck, Bill Donato, Anna Wolfe, Anna Lefkaditis, Zenie Gladieux and Ray Hand.
Kathleen Putzig read the meeting minutes. One correction was made (1722 vs 1822) and the minutes were approved as corrected.
Treasurer’s Report by Anna Wolfe was that our bank assets total 4615.54.
We received our first Duanesburg Historical Society newsletter and also the Guilderland HS newsletter.
Annual Dues are being collected.
Old Business:
4-H Tour of Saddlemire Homestead Museum– no date chosen yet, per Anna L. Anna also said the Auxiliary uniform is not intact, or in good enough shape to be donated. There is just a cape and an apron. The cap is missing also.
IRS report from Donna: For data purposes, it doesn’t matter that she filled out the form with “social organization” as opposed to “educational organization.” That is only for census or data reporting. We now have our EIN number, and it is fine. It is saved atpay.gov. The last page has to be signed by an officer. The cost will be approx. $275.00 payable to the IRS for the privilege of being a 501 (c)(3). If we want to pursue a permanent charter, we have to become a 501 (c)(3). Annual paperwork has to be filled out by the treasurer when we are a 501 (c)(3). When we looked into grants in the past, they all required the organization to be a 501 (c)(3). Dennis made a motion that Anna Wolfe be authorized to sign the paperwork. Anna L. seconded. The motion passed.
We need to email a sign up sheet for 2 volunteers every Wednesday from 12-2 at the Homestead during July and August.
We have a date for the reenactor – Sep. 22. We will need to request a grant from the PTA to cover expenses. The reenactor will be acting as Benjamin Franklin. The social studies dept. will be offering students extra credit for attending. Nancy doesn’t have a quote for his charge yet.
A Week in the Life of Great Aunt Nellie program for August 12 is proposed by Nancy Frueh. The Homestead should have tools for the chores mentioned in the song “Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush” with different chores each day. She will check with the Town of Berne to make sure there are no scheduling conflicts with their events.
Nancy suggested a possible July program would be a blacksmithing demonstration during the Pucker Street Fair. Dennis made a motion that we authorize Bill to make an offer of up to $150 (including expenses) if we can get Noah Khoury to agree to this. Nancy seconded the motion, which then passed.
The Altamont Fair has a blacksmith demonstration. Noah Khoury is a local with a shop that does blacksmithing. There may have been an article in the Altamont Enterprise about him. Dennis will ask Lou Saddlemire for information from the research he has been doing on blacksmiths in Knox.
June 17 we will do a presentation on Farming in Knox: Past, Present and Future, either here or at the Homestead.
Bill stopped to speak to Mr. Dean, but he was on vacation. Nothing has changed with the Cemetery so we should still be able to work there.
Donna spoke to Ms. Torok about the washing machine, but she didn’t have any specific information.
Dennis didn’t hear from Kathy Ouimet yet about the Grange materials.
Dennis suggested we decide a work date to clean up the Homestead. He suggested the week of May 15th. KHS members preferred weekdays, and so they decided on May 15th, to vacuum and take the sheeting off protected items.
Donna talked to someone who owns the domain for the KHS website. We have paid an annual fee before. The person at Weebly Donna spoke to said it was a free website. Then Donna asked John Elberfeld about it, since he set it up. He hasn’t gotten back to her yet. She did get a bill last May (2016), but when she tried to log in to pay the bill this year, she couldn’t log in. Since Weebly said it was free, she will wait to hear from John for confirmation before trying to talk to Weebly again to be sure it is free.
Dennis has spoken to reps. from the Thacher Park Visitor Center about putting up a painting from KHS. He will bring the painting on Thursday at the opening ceremony. Half of the park is in Knox. He will get pictures of it then and we will be able to send them to the Cherry Valley Historical Society, since the lady who actually painted it (Leila Moore Waldron) is from Cherry Valley.
Zenie asked if we were going to have a float in the Memorial Day Parade. We are not planning on it.
Nancy asked Kathleen if she had done the NYS Ed annual report yet. She has not.
Bill said in 1941 equipment from a pill box factory in Knox was donated to New York State Museum and they still have it. They have pictures, molds, a bench, etc. It is a 20 – 30 piece collection. He is asking them to let us see it, if they would get it from their warehouse and consolidate it.
Dennis read the annual President’s Report.
Elections: The nominating committee has recommended a slate of officers. The line officers are all returning in their current positions, and two trustees are returning (Bill Donato and Ray Hand). There is one new trustee (Donna Gwin). Nancy made a motion that the secretary cast one ballot for the slate as presented, and Dennis seconded it. The motion passed unanimously.
Ray will create a guestbook for the Homestead for 2017. Nancy will get more 1/3 cut brochures printed and give us a bill.
The meeting was adjourned at 8 p.m. by President Dennis Barber.
Respectfully submitted,
Kathleen Putzig
Secretary
The regular meeting was called to order by President Dennis Barber at 7:04 . Members attending were Nancy Frueh, Kathleen Putzig, Donna Gwin, Jayson Romanchuck, Bill Donato, Anna Wolfe, Anna Lefkaditis, Zenie Gladieux and Ray Hand.
Kathleen Putzig read the meeting minutes. One correction was made (1722 vs 1822) and the minutes were approved as corrected.
Treasurer’s Report by Anna Wolfe was that our bank assets total 4615.54.
We received our first Duanesburg Historical Society newsletter and also the Guilderland HS newsletter.
Annual Dues are being collected.
Old Business:
4-H Tour of Saddlemire Homestead Museum– no date chosen yet, per Anna L. Anna also said the Auxiliary uniform is not intact, or in good enough shape to be donated. There is just a cape and an apron. The cap is missing also.
IRS report from Donna: For data purposes, it doesn’t matter that she filled out the form with “social organization” as opposed to “educational organization.” That is only for census or data reporting. We now have our EIN number, and it is fine. It is saved atpay.gov. The last page has to be signed by an officer. The cost will be approx. $275.00 payable to the IRS for the privilege of being a 501 (c)(3). If we want to pursue a permanent charter, we have to become a 501 (c)(3). Annual paperwork has to be filled out by the treasurer when we are a 501 (c)(3). When we looked into grants in the past, they all required the organization to be a 501 (c)(3). Dennis made a motion that Anna Wolfe be authorized to sign the paperwork. Anna L. seconded. The motion passed.
We need to email a sign up sheet for 2 volunteers every Wednesday from 12-2 at the Homestead during July and August.
We have a date for the reenactor – Sep. 22. We will need to request a grant from the PTA to cover expenses. The reenactor will be acting as Benjamin Franklin. The social studies dept. will be offering students extra credit for attending. Nancy doesn’t have a quote for his charge yet.
A Week in the Life of Great Aunt Nellie program for August 12 is proposed by Nancy Frueh. The Homestead should have tools for the chores mentioned in the song “Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush” with different chores each day. She will check with the Town of Berne to make sure there are no scheduling conflicts with their events.
Nancy suggested a possible July program would be a blacksmithing demonstration during the Pucker Street Fair. Dennis made a motion that we authorize Bill to make an offer of up to $150 (including expenses) if we can get Noah Khoury to agree to this. Nancy seconded the motion, which then passed.
The Altamont Fair has a blacksmith demonstration. Noah Khoury is a local with a shop that does blacksmithing. There may have been an article in the Altamont Enterprise about him. Dennis will ask Lou Saddlemire for information from the research he has been doing on blacksmiths in Knox.
June 17 we will do a presentation on Farming in Knox: Past, Present and Future, either here or at the Homestead.
Bill stopped to speak to Mr. Dean, but he was on vacation. Nothing has changed with the Cemetery so we should still be able to work there.
Donna spoke to Ms. Torok about the washing machine, but she didn’t have any specific information.
Dennis didn’t hear from Kathy Ouimet yet about the Grange materials.
Dennis suggested we decide a work date to clean up the Homestead. He suggested the week of May 15th. KHS members preferred weekdays, and so they decided on May 15th, to vacuum and take the sheeting off protected items.
Donna talked to someone who owns the domain for the KHS website. We have paid an annual fee before. The person at Weebly Donna spoke to said it was a free website. Then Donna asked John Elberfeld about it, since he set it up. He hasn’t gotten back to her yet. She did get a bill last May (2016), but when she tried to log in to pay the bill this year, she couldn’t log in. Since Weebly said it was free, she will wait to hear from John for confirmation before trying to talk to Weebly again to be sure it is free.
Dennis has spoken to reps. from the Thacher Park Visitor Center about putting up a painting from KHS. He will bring the painting on Thursday at the opening ceremony. Half of the park is in Knox. He will get pictures of it then and we will be able to send them to the Cherry Valley Historical Society, since the lady who actually painted it (Leila Moore Waldron) is from Cherry Valley.
Zenie asked if we were going to have a float in the Memorial Day Parade. We are not planning on it.
Nancy asked Kathleen if she had done the NYS Ed annual report yet. She has not.
Bill said in 1941 equipment from a pill box factory in Knox was donated to New York State Museum and they still have it. They have pictures, molds, a bench, etc. It is a 20 – 30 piece collection. He is asking them to let us see it, if they would get it from their warehouse and consolidate it.
Dennis read the annual President’s Report.
Elections: The nominating committee has recommended a slate of officers. The line officers are all returning in their current positions, and two trustees are returning (Bill Donato and Ray Hand). There is one new trustee (Donna Gwin). Nancy made a motion that the secretary cast one ballot for the slate as presented, and Dennis seconded it. The motion passed unanimously.
Ray will create a guestbook for the Homestead for 2017. Nancy will get more 1/3 cut brochures printed and give us a bill.
The meeting was adjourned at 8 p.m. by President Dennis Barber.
Respectfully submitted,
Kathleen Putzig
Secretary
April 4, 2017 Meeting Minutes
Knox Historical Society Meeting April 4, 2017
The meeting was called to order by President Dennis Barber at 7:10. Regular members attending were Nancy Frueh, Kathleen Putzig, Donna Gwin, Ray Hand, Bill Donato, Anna Wolfe, Anna Lefkaditis, and Rev. Jay Francis.
Kathleen read the meeting minutes from March and they were approved.
Treasurer Anna Wolfe reported on the finances. She also reported that KHS has received the usual monthly correspondences from neighboring historical societies such as Spindle City. She noticed a recent article in the Altamont Enterprise on how to research archives online.
Nancy Frueh reported on the display at the Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast. Several people gave donations. Popular items given as thank you gifts included bumper stickers, note cards, books and pill boxes. She handed out many membership forms.
Dennis has been working on a comprehensive list of town supervisors since 1722, after a request from
Chandra Reis (518-421-0115) from the Altamont Fair Farmhouse Museum contacted Nancy, requesting display items to share during the fair this summer. The theme this year is farmhouse animals, but any items are welcome. Dennis suggested putting information about this on the website.
The nominating committee (Ray Hand and Nancy Frueh)reported that all line officers have agreed to retain their current positions. Board of Trustees up for election are Donna Gwin, Bill Donato, and Ray Hand. Nominations can still be made from the floor at the next meeting. Voting will take place at the May meeting.
Dennis called Maureen from Thacher Park about a display at the Visitor Center, but she didn’t return his call as of the time of this meeting.
Kathleen donated two Sesquicentennial Booklets to the Schoharie Central School libraries, and got a picture of the high school librarian holding her copy.
Kathy Ouimet will be returning the Grange materials to Dennis.
Donna is still working with the state to get guidance regarding the EIN number for KHS as an organization with the IRS. The collections management policy was emailed by Nancy and everyone had a chance to look through it. Nancy moved that we adopt it as presented with the changes included in the last email. Bill seconded the motion and it passed.
At the Pucker Street Fair in July, KHS will open the Homestead to the public.
The Homestead’s sign fell. When the Town of Knox and Fire Dept. put up their new sign, we will reinstall the Homestead sign at a better location. If the Knox sign isn’t installed by Memorial Day, we may put it back up temporarily in its old location.
Dennis reported that Supervisor Lefkaditis is looking into an alarm system to be installed in the Homestead.
Kathleen received copies of oral histories from the Knox Reformed Church and will add them to the current binder in the Homestead. We should get an index for the front of the binder. There is also a CD with oral histories on it. The histories don’t have dates on them, but we may be able to research the publication dates for the church newsletters to get a year for them at least.
Dennis made a motion, and Nancy seconded it for the Homestead to be open 12-2 on Wednesdays during July and August. The motion passed.
Memorial Day Weekend the Homestead will be open 10-1. Dennis and Bill will host. We will need to clean the Homestead to open it for spring.
Dennis got a call from Jason Anderson about donating an old washing machine. He got it from his father, who got it from (possibly) his aunt. It was used in Knox around the turn of the century. Dennis has it in his garage, and has pictures on it. It was made between 1898 and 1902 according to online sources. Dennis will research it. Jason claimed it was made in Knox, but may just have been used here. Dennis wanted to know if we wanted to accept it, and Nancy suggested since it is so large, we should get more information about it before we decide. We might put it on the porch during the summer. It needs to be cleaned up. Kathleen made a motion that we accept the washing machine. Donna seconded the motion, and it passed. Donna will email Margaret Turak to ask if she knows anything about it, as she is somehow related to the Andersons.
Anna Lefkaditis said someone approached her with an offer to donate a uniform from the Knox Fire Auxiliary. Dennis said we have no display about the Fire Dept and should consider creating one. Anna said it is a long dress uniform. Don Champion found an old air pack the Fire Dept used, and if we find more items we could create a display for the Homestead. Dennis suggested we find an area to dedicate to the Fire Dept. and have a program next year for their 70th Anniversary. The Patriot’s Room might be appropriate.
Anna L. also asked if we could do a Homestead tour for the 4H club during one of their regular meetings. There are about 14 children, between 1st and 9th grades. The children would sign up, so we would know whom to expect.
Dennis ended the meeting at 8:24 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Kathleen Putzig Secretary, KHS, Knox Town Historian, Berne Town Historian
The meeting was called to order by President Dennis Barber at 7:10. Regular members attending were Nancy Frueh, Kathleen Putzig, Donna Gwin, Ray Hand, Bill Donato, Anna Wolfe, Anna Lefkaditis, and Rev. Jay Francis.
Kathleen read the meeting minutes from March and they were approved.
Treasurer Anna Wolfe reported on the finances. She also reported that KHS has received the usual monthly correspondences from neighboring historical societies such as Spindle City. She noticed a recent article in the Altamont Enterprise on how to research archives online.
Nancy Frueh reported on the display at the Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast. Several people gave donations. Popular items given as thank you gifts included bumper stickers, note cards, books and pill boxes. She handed out many membership forms.
Dennis has been working on a comprehensive list of town supervisors since 1722, after a request from
Chandra Reis (518-421-0115) from the Altamont Fair Farmhouse Museum contacted Nancy, requesting display items to share during the fair this summer. The theme this year is farmhouse animals, but any items are welcome. Dennis suggested putting information about this on the website.
The nominating committee (Ray Hand and Nancy Frueh)reported that all line officers have agreed to retain their current positions. Board of Trustees up for election are Donna Gwin, Bill Donato, and Ray Hand. Nominations can still be made from the floor at the next meeting. Voting will take place at the May meeting.
Dennis called Maureen from Thacher Park about a display at the Visitor Center, but she didn’t return his call as of the time of this meeting.
Kathleen donated two Sesquicentennial Booklets to the Schoharie Central School libraries, and got a picture of the high school librarian holding her copy.
Kathy Ouimet will be returning the Grange materials to Dennis.
Donna is still working with the state to get guidance regarding the EIN number for KHS as an organization with the IRS. The collections management policy was emailed by Nancy and everyone had a chance to look through it. Nancy moved that we adopt it as presented with the changes included in the last email. Bill seconded the motion and it passed.
At the Pucker Street Fair in July, KHS will open the Homestead to the public.
The Homestead’s sign fell. When the Town of Knox and Fire Dept. put up their new sign, we will reinstall the Homestead sign at a better location. If the Knox sign isn’t installed by Memorial Day, we may put it back up temporarily in its old location.
Dennis reported that Supervisor Lefkaditis is looking into an alarm system to be installed in the Homestead.
Kathleen received copies of oral histories from the Knox Reformed Church and will add them to the current binder in the Homestead. We should get an index for the front of the binder. There is also a CD with oral histories on it. The histories don’t have dates on them, but we may be able to research the publication dates for the church newsletters to get a year for them at least.
Dennis made a motion, and Nancy seconded it for the Homestead to be open 12-2 on Wednesdays during July and August. The motion passed.
Memorial Day Weekend the Homestead will be open 10-1. Dennis and Bill will host. We will need to clean the Homestead to open it for spring.
Dennis got a call from Jason Anderson about donating an old washing machine. He got it from his father, who got it from (possibly) his aunt. It was used in Knox around the turn of the century. Dennis has it in his garage, and has pictures on it. It was made between 1898 and 1902 according to online sources. Dennis will research it. Jason claimed it was made in Knox, but may just have been used here. Dennis wanted to know if we wanted to accept it, and Nancy suggested since it is so large, we should get more information about it before we decide. We might put it on the porch during the summer. It needs to be cleaned up. Kathleen made a motion that we accept the washing machine. Donna seconded the motion, and it passed. Donna will email Margaret Turak to ask if she knows anything about it, as she is somehow related to the Andersons.
Anna Lefkaditis said someone approached her with an offer to donate a uniform from the Knox Fire Auxiliary. Dennis said we have no display about the Fire Dept and should consider creating one. Anna said it is a long dress uniform. Don Champion found an old air pack the Fire Dept used, and if we find more items we could create a display for the Homestead. Dennis suggested we find an area to dedicate to the Fire Dept. and have a program next year for their 70th Anniversary. The Patriot’s Room might be appropriate.
Anna L. also asked if we could do a Homestead tour for the 4H club during one of their regular meetings. There are about 14 children, between 1st and 9th grades. The children would sign up, so we would know whom to expect.
Dennis ended the meeting at 8:24 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Kathleen Putzig Secretary, KHS, Knox Town Historian, Berne Town Historian
March 7, 2017 Meeting Minutes
KHS Meeting March 7, 2017
President Dennis Barber called the regular meeting to order at 7:06 p.m.
Members present were Donna Gwin, Bill Donato, Anna Lefkiditis, Ray Hand, Kathleen Putzig, and Nancy Frueh. Anna is a new member, along with her husband Vasilios. They have supported KHS in the past, and are welcome additions.
Treasurer’s report: Total assets in January were $4534.65, in February $4488.94, and in March $4551.94.
We received correspondence from the IRS concerning our status as a corporation and assignment of an EIN. We also received mail from Friends of Pruyn newsletter, Guilderland Historical Society newsletter, and Art Conservator Magazine.
Ray got the computer and scanner from the Homestead working. He will lend them to Susan Miner, and teach her how to use them. She will borrow the Merrymen’s Teahouse guest books, one at a time, and scan them. She will also type a list of names so it is searchable. Although not sure how much time she can devote to the project until she gets started with it, we are grateful for her help. This is an excellent idea for other friends or members of KHS to make meaningful contributions from their own home, scanning, transcribing, and documenting the historical documents of the Town of Knox.
Donna Gwin has a final draft of the Collections Accession Policy, which she will email to all members so we can vote on it next meeting.
Regarding the IRS letter, Donna will contact the number given to get advice on cancelling our EIN as a corporation, and reapplying as a nonprofit organization. She will also ask if we have a valid EIN as a nonprofit, or if we need to fix it. She has been in touch with Sarah Jastremski at the State Education Department’s Charter section. Nancy read information from the Town of Knox Sesquicentennial (Not for Profit) Corporation. We need to find out if we can keep that name and EIN, or if we need to start over with a new name and status. Otherwise we may be responsible for filing tax forms starting in 1993.
Dennis has discussed the fire alarm system with the town board, and it is being worked on.
We need a nominating committee for the 2017 elections. The bylaws state the committee should consist of 3 people. Nancy, Ray and Kathleen agreed to be on the committee. Dennis, Nancy and Kathleen have agreed to hold their current positions for the upcoming year. Kathleen stipulated that she not be required to listen to the recording of the meeting to type up the notes. She will continue to record the meetings in case there are questions about the minutes later. They will be deleted after the final minutes are approved for that month. Ray will contact Anna Wolfe to ask if she will continue to be the Treasurer.
We discussed the Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast, and whether we should set up a display for people waiting to be seated. We had a display last year, and it was a success. Kathleen will ask if we can set up a display. Nancy will take care of the display and presenting it.
June 17 we will have the Homestead open from 2-4 p.m. and have a presentation on farming, past, present and future. Kathleen is in contact with the Agriculture teacher (Mr. McConnelly) at Berne-Knox-Westerlo school, and with students who took the half year class last fall, asking them to prepare a presentation on the present and future of farming in Knox. Dennis will volunteer and help demonstrate the farm implements.
The July (4th) and November (Election Day) 2017 KHS meetings will be cancelled due to conflicts.
October Path Thru History Weekend will be held on the weekend of the 7th and 8th. On the 7th, from 2-4 the Homestead Museum will be open.
July 7/8 is the Pucker Street Fair. We would like to have a presence, and should think about what we want to do. We might have the Homestead open, and perhaps do a fund raiser. We might put some of our farm equipment out on the side lawn. We will invite the Kiwanis to sell their bird houses, bee traps and trellises in that same area of the lawn.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:24.
Respectfully submitted,
Kathleen Putzig, Secretar
President Dennis Barber called the regular meeting to order at 7:06 p.m.
Members present were Donna Gwin, Bill Donato, Anna Lefkiditis, Ray Hand, Kathleen Putzig, and Nancy Frueh. Anna is a new member, along with her husband Vasilios. They have supported KHS in the past, and are welcome additions.
Treasurer’s report: Total assets in January were $4534.65, in February $4488.94, and in March $4551.94.
We received correspondence from the IRS concerning our status as a corporation and assignment of an EIN. We also received mail from Friends of Pruyn newsletter, Guilderland Historical Society newsletter, and Art Conservator Magazine.
Ray got the computer and scanner from the Homestead working. He will lend them to Susan Miner, and teach her how to use them. She will borrow the Merrymen’s Teahouse guest books, one at a time, and scan them. She will also type a list of names so it is searchable. Although not sure how much time she can devote to the project until she gets started with it, we are grateful for her help. This is an excellent idea for other friends or members of KHS to make meaningful contributions from their own home, scanning, transcribing, and documenting the historical documents of the Town of Knox.
Donna Gwin has a final draft of the Collections Accession Policy, which she will email to all members so we can vote on it next meeting.
Regarding the IRS letter, Donna will contact the number given to get advice on cancelling our EIN as a corporation, and reapplying as a nonprofit organization. She will also ask if we have a valid EIN as a nonprofit, or if we need to fix it. She has been in touch with Sarah Jastremski at the State Education Department’s Charter section. Nancy read information from the Town of Knox Sesquicentennial (Not for Profit) Corporation. We need to find out if we can keep that name and EIN, or if we need to start over with a new name and status. Otherwise we may be responsible for filing tax forms starting in 1993.
Dennis has discussed the fire alarm system with the town board, and it is being worked on.
We need a nominating committee for the 2017 elections. The bylaws state the committee should consist of 3 people. Nancy, Ray and Kathleen agreed to be on the committee. Dennis, Nancy and Kathleen have agreed to hold their current positions for the upcoming year. Kathleen stipulated that she not be required to listen to the recording of the meeting to type up the notes. She will continue to record the meetings in case there are questions about the minutes later. They will be deleted after the final minutes are approved for that month. Ray will contact Anna Wolfe to ask if she will continue to be the Treasurer.
We discussed the Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast, and whether we should set up a display for people waiting to be seated. We had a display last year, and it was a success. Kathleen will ask if we can set up a display. Nancy will take care of the display and presenting it.
June 17 we will have the Homestead open from 2-4 p.m. and have a presentation on farming, past, present and future. Kathleen is in contact with the Agriculture teacher (Mr. McConnelly) at Berne-Knox-Westerlo school, and with students who took the half year class last fall, asking them to prepare a presentation on the present and future of farming in Knox. Dennis will volunteer and help demonstrate the farm implements.
The July (4th) and November (Election Day) 2017 KHS meetings will be cancelled due to conflicts.
October Path Thru History Weekend will be held on the weekend of the 7th and 8th. On the 7th, from 2-4 the Homestead Museum will be open.
July 7/8 is the Pucker Street Fair. We would like to have a presence, and should think about what we want to do. We might have the Homestead open, and perhaps do a fund raiser. We might put some of our farm equipment out on the side lawn. We will invite the Kiwanis to sell their bird houses, bee traps and trellises in that same area of the lawn.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:24.
Respectfully submitted,
Kathleen Putzig, Secretar
January 3, 2017 minutes
The regular meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order at 7:05 by President Dennis Barber. Members attending were Kathleen Putzig, Nancy Frueh, Anna Wolfe, Duanesburg Town Historian Howard Ohlhaus, Pastor Jay Francis, Javid and Mara Afzali, Bill Donato, Ray Hand, and Donna Gwin.
Kathleen read the October minutes. They were approved with the following corrections: Dennis took care of getting the cave crawl put back away when it was returned. Sandra Kisselback invited KHS members to participate in the Berne Historical Society’s Spooky Rooms of History Halloween activity
Nancy read the November minutes. They were approved.
Anna Wolfe made a treasurer’s report. We have $4490.40 in the bank, between checking and savings.
The Bicentennial quilt is now in storage in its new acid free box. A motion to pay the bill for the box was made by Bill Donato, and seconded by Ray Hand. The motion was approved.
Anna reported on correspondence. We received some newsletters, and one membership check.
Dennis reported on the historical markers, that there are none at the Voorheesville DOT highway department location.
Donna has been working on the collections management policy. She will send a final draft so everyone can review it, and we can vote on it at the next meeting. She is also considering the charter. Nancy suggested we also review the constitution and bylaws.
Ray is examining the computer from the Homestead.
New Business: Bulbs were purchased for the garden. The Ostrander Cemetery owner passed away. Bill will talk to the caretaker to see what future plans are for the property.
Dennis will talk with the Knox Town Board about a fire alarm system, and whether a phone line could be installed in the Saddlemire Homestead. He will see if they would be willing to add the Homestead on to their alarm system, perhaps as a rider.
Nancy reported that in 1917 Women’s Suffrage was approved, but women didn’t first vote until 1918. Jay Francis related that his great grandparents voted in Knox, and one voted Republican, the other Democrat. When they got home, his grandfather said, “Well, Ella, I think we wasted our time.”
There was general discussion of future programs and re-enactors.
Howard talked about their new museum being built in Duanesburg on Quaker Lane. Their funding came from paintings that were donated by the Gaige family of Knox but never accessioned. The museum will look like a Greek Revival mansion, similar to two homes in Duanesburg on the historical register. Ann Marie Collins will be giving a Women’s Suffrage program in March. The Duanesburg Historical Society newsletter will be coming out soon with a list of the upcoming programs.
The meeting ended at 8:40 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Kathleen Putzig, SecretaryKnox Historical Society Meeting Minutes
Kathleen read the October minutes. They were approved with the following corrections: Dennis took care of getting the cave crawl put back away when it was returned. Sandra Kisselback invited KHS members to participate in the Berne Historical Society’s Spooky Rooms of History Halloween activity
Nancy read the November minutes. They were approved.
Anna Wolfe made a treasurer’s report. We have $4490.40 in the bank, between checking and savings.
The Bicentennial quilt is now in storage in its new acid free box. A motion to pay the bill for the box was made by Bill Donato, and seconded by Ray Hand. The motion was approved.
Anna reported on correspondence. We received some newsletters, and one membership check.
Dennis reported on the historical markers, that there are none at the Voorheesville DOT highway department location.
Donna has been working on the collections management policy. She will send a final draft so everyone can review it, and we can vote on it at the next meeting. She is also considering the charter. Nancy suggested we also review the constitution and bylaws.
Ray is examining the computer from the Homestead.
New Business: Bulbs were purchased for the garden. The Ostrander Cemetery owner passed away. Bill will talk to the caretaker to see what future plans are for the property.
Dennis will talk with the Knox Town Board about a fire alarm system, and whether a phone line could be installed in the Saddlemire Homestead. He will see if they would be willing to add the Homestead on to their alarm system, perhaps as a rider.
Nancy reported that in 1917 Women’s Suffrage was approved, but women didn’t first vote until 1918. Jay Francis related that his great grandparents voted in Knox, and one voted Republican, the other Democrat. When they got home, his grandfather said, “Well, Ella, I think we wasted our time.”
There was general discussion of future programs and re-enactors.
Howard talked about their new museum being built in Duanesburg on Quaker Lane. Their funding came from paintings that were donated by the Gaige family of Knox but never accessioned. The museum will look like a Greek Revival mansion, similar to two homes in Duanesburg on the historical register. Ann Marie Collins will be giving a Women’s Suffrage program in March. The Duanesburg Historical Society newsletter will be coming out soon with a list of the upcoming programs.
The meeting ended at 8:40 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Kathleen Putzig, SecretaryKnox Historical Society Meeting Minutes
November 1, 2016 Meeting Minutes
The regular meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order on Tuesday, November 1 at 7:05 pm by President, Dennis Barber. Members present were Zenie Gladieux, Anna Wolfe, Bill Donato, Jayson Romanczuk, Nancy Frueh, and Donna Gwin.
Due to the illness of the secretary, the vice-president recorded the minutes of the meeting. The minutes of the October meeting will be approved at the next meeting.
Anna presented the treasurer’s report showing $946.90 in the checking account, and $3545.11 in the savings account. There was no activity this month. We received a bill from Jane McLean for the hoops used in the Grandma Brown quilt display. Nancy also has a bill for the printing of the Quilt Barn Trail driving tour and for some hanging tags used to label items in the tool room. She will e-mail copies of the bills to Anna, since she forgot to bring them, again. Zenie moved and Bill seconded that we pay the bills. Carried.
Anna reported that we received the Guilderland Historical Society newsletter. We also received correspondence about a document preservation workshop, which was given to our Accessionist, Donna Gwin.
Old Business:
We rescheduled the cemetery clean-up for Sunday, November 6. Helpers should meet at Town Hall at 10 am to car-pool to the Ostrander Cemetery.
Dennis reported that he has not yet contacted the Department of Transportation concerning retrieving historic markers. Berne is missing many of theirs, and we hope to be able to facilitate returning missing markers to their original homes.
Ray Hand is examining the computer that has been in the Reading Room at the Saddlemire Homestead to determine if it works, and if we can make use of it.
Donna will compare our Collections Management Policy, as adopted on 4/6/2010, to those of Schenectady and Altamont and report back if there are any areas that need our attention.
Donna asked if there are any smoke detectors in the Homestead, and asked about possible ways to monitor them remotely. Jayson and Bill will look into some possible technology to do so. Dennis will bring it up to the Town Board that we are looking into such things, perhaps tying into the wi-fi at Town Hall. Anna will call our insurance carrier to see if they have any suggestions, and to see if installing such a system will affect our rates.
The desk that was removed from the Reading Room of the Homestead bears no accession number, so it was assumed it was never accessioned. It is clearly homemade, and not of very good quality, and is of no value to us. Donna moved and Zenie seconded that Dennis be authorized to take it to the transfer station. Carried.
After further consideration, it was decided that it would be better for the Bicentennial Quilt to be stored in an acid-free box each year, rather than leaving it hanging and risking mouse damage or fire. Anna will order the box and contact Donna when it arrives to arrange removing the quilt from the Homestead, and getting it into the safe storage area in Town Hall. Dennis will buy and install pet-safe mouse proofing in the Homestead.
Kathleen is working on making a list of things that need to be done annually to prepare the Homestead for winter. Nancy laid all the framed photos face-down in the Patriot’s Room to reduce fading, and laid the binders flat. She also oiled the fife with mineral oil. Any excess oil can be wiped off with a soft lint-free cloth next spring. Anna covered the mannequins and baby carriage with sheets.
Carl Parker from the Department of Environmental Conservation met with Bill and toured the Barclay cemetery after Anna reported the felling of tree limbs onto the cemetery. En Con has been looking for the cemetery for many years, having a 1960’s document which mentioned its existence. They will be cleaning up the area in the spring and installing a sign and upgrading the entrance.
Bill will work with the Val Pulliam family to get their undocumented family cemetery properly documented.
New Business:
The Albany County History Collaborative will meet on Saturday, November 5 from 10 am to noon at the Cohoes Visitor Center, 58 Remsen St, Cohoes. No one from our group was available to attend the meeting.
Nancy will submit an article on Ice Harvesting for the winter edition of Knox Rural Roots. She will try to include some Knox photos, but the article was written by Mary Ellen Johnson of the Guilderland Historical Society, and is used with permission. If no Knox photos can be obtained, it will be published with the Guilderland photos.
Zenie announced that the Helderberg Hilltown Association is inviting representatives from area historical societies, town historians, and library officials to a Historical Summit meeting on November 12 from 10 to 12. They are hoping to facilitate the sharing of information and publicity among organizations, and perhaps work toward a series of local programs concerning the Anti-Rent Wars in 2018, perhaps in conjunction with the NYS Path Through History weekends. She invited us to share our publicity with Dawn Jordan for inclusion in the HHA newsletter, and asked us to bring our Suitcase of History to the meeting to show other attendees. Anna will retrieve the suitcase from Kathleen, and make sure it gets to the Summit.
Hearing no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:00 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Frueh, vice-president
Due to the illness of the secretary, the vice-president recorded the minutes of the meeting. The minutes of the October meeting will be approved at the next meeting.
Anna presented the treasurer’s report showing $946.90 in the checking account, and $3545.11 in the savings account. There was no activity this month. We received a bill from Jane McLean for the hoops used in the Grandma Brown quilt display. Nancy also has a bill for the printing of the Quilt Barn Trail driving tour and for some hanging tags used to label items in the tool room. She will e-mail copies of the bills to Anna, since she forgot to bring them, again. Zenie moved and Bill seconded that we pay the bills. Carried.
Anna reported that we received the Guilderland Historical Society newsletter. We also received correspondence about a document preservation workshop, which was given to our Accessionist, Donna Gwin.
Old Business:
We rescheduled the cemetery clean-up for Sunday, November 6. Helpers should meet at Town Hall at 10 am to car-pool to the Ostrander Cemetery.
Dennis reported that he has not yet contacted the Department of Transportation concerning retrieving historic markers. Berne is missing many of theirs, and we hope to be able to facilitate returning missing markers to their original homes.
Ray Hand is examining the computer that has been in the Reading Room at the Saddlemire Homestead to determine if it works, and if we can make use of it.
Donna will compare our Collections Management Policy, as adopted on 4/6/2010, to those of Schenectady and Altamont and report back if there are any areas that need our attention.
Donna asked if there are any smoke detectors in the Homestead, and asked about possible ways to monitor them remotely. Jayson and Bill will look into some possible technology to do so. Dennis will bring it up to the Town Board that we are looking into such things, perhaps tying into the wi-fi at Town Hall. Anna will call our insurance carrier to see if they have any suggestions, and to see if installing such a system will affect our rates.
The desk that was removed from the Reading Room of the Homestead bears no accession number, so it was assumed it was never accessioned. It is clearly homemade, and not of very good quality, and is of no value to us. Donna moved and Zenie seconded that Dennis be authorized to take it to the transfer station. Carried.
After further consideration, it was decided that it would be better for the Bicentennial Quilt to be stored in an acid-free box each year, rather than leaving it hanging and risking mouse damage or fire. Anna will order the box and contact Donna when it arrives to arrange removing the quilt from the Homestead, and getting it into the safe storage area in Town Hall. Dennis will buy and install pet-safe mouse proofing in the Homestead.
Kathleen is working on making a list of things that need to be done annually to prepare the Homestead for winter. Nancy laid all the framed photos face-down in the Patriot’s Room to reduce fading, and laid the binders flat. She also oiled the fife with mineral oil. Any excess oil can be wiped off with a soft lint-free cloth next spring. Anna covered the mannequins and baby carriage with sheets.
Carl Parker from the Department of Environmental Conservation met with Bill and toured the Barclay cemetery after Anna reported the felling of tree limbs onto the cemetery. En Con has been looking for the cemetery for many years, having a 1960’s document which mentioned its existence. They will be cleaning up the area in the spring and installing a sign and upgrading the entrance.
Bill will work with the Val Pulliam family to get their undocumented family cemetery properly documented.
New Business:
The Albany County History Collaborative will meet on Saturday, November 5 from 10 am to noon at the Cohoes Visitor Center, 58 Remsen St, Cohoes. No one from our group was available to attend the meeting.
Nancy will submit an article on Ice Harvesting for the winter edition of Knox Rural Roots. She will try to include some Knox photos, but the article was written by Mary Ellen Johnson of the Guilderland Historical Society, and is used with permission. If no Knox photos can be obtained, it will be published with the Guilderland photos.
Zenie announced that the Helderberg Hilltown Association is inviting representatives from area historical societies, town historians, and library officials to a Historical Summit meeting on November 12 from 10 to 12. They are hoping to facilitate the sharing of information and publicity among organizations, and perhaps work toward a series of local programs concerning the Anti-Rent Wars in 2018, perhaps in conjunction with the NYS Path Through History weekends. She invited us to share our publicity with Dawn Jordan for inclusion in the HHA newsletter, and asked us to bring our Suitcase of History to the meeting to show other attendees. Anna will retrieve the suitcase from Kathleen, and make sure it gets to the Summit.
Hearing no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:00 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Frueh, vice-president
Sept. 6, 2016 MINUTES
Knox Historical Society Meeting Minutes
Date September 6, 2016
The regular meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order by President Dennis Barber on September 6, 2016 at 7:12 p.m. Members present were Bill Donato, Nancy Frueh, Anna Wolfe, Donna Gwin, Maureen Driscoll and Kathleen Putzig.
Kathleen read the minutes from the August meeting. Donna Gwin asked that the minutes be corrected to show that she had the idea (rather than the Helderberg Hilltown Association) to move the quilt show to fall during the Farm and Artisan Tour weekend. With that correction, Donna moved that the meeting notes be approved. Anna seconded, and the motion carried.
There was a discussion of the Fall Into Knox Festival and Carnival, with posters and times clarified.
There was discussion of the gravestones on DEC property that had a tree dropped on them, and who should be notified. Anna said she would call the DEC Central Office to tell them what had happened.
Nancy reported on the Albany County History Collaborative meeting she attended. She met with the webmaster to update our information and the picture of the Saddlemire Homestead.
At that meeting, it was agreed that in future, the host site will provide a meeting room, and directions to that site, as well as refreshments but will not put on a program. The next meeting will be Nov. 5th at Spindle City Historical Society in Cohoes. The program will be on Heritage Tourism. (November is State History Month, but no special events are going to be planned.) They are discussing creating a virtual tour on the website of the Women’s Suffrage display
Feb. 11th is the second upcoming meeting scheduled, to be hosted by Colonie Historical with a program on Member Recruitment and Retention.
May 2017 will be hosted by the Bethlehem Historical Association. Those are the next 3 meetings planned.
Anna gave the Treasurer’s report. In the checking account we have $1,035.21. In savings we have $3544.52. In correspondence, we have an insurance bill, which is the same as it was last year. It covers $8000 in property damage. Kathleen made a motion that we pay the bill, and Nancy seconded. Motion carried.
The Merrymen’s Tea was a great success. Borrowed materials were returned.
Nancy is making more copies of a brochure of our most popular tour, the Helderberg Quilt Barn Trail.
New Business
Maureen Driscoll brought a collection of papers, pictures and books from Dan’s records. She brought Dan’s Fife and Drum Corps. uniform to donate to KHS. There were tin horns that Dan had made, and one that he had gotten as a souvenir from Berne during the Sesquicentennial. Bill made a motion that KHS accept everything Maureen donated. Donna seconded the motion. Motion carried. Dan’s daughter Debbie is continuing his work on the Lime Kilns.
KHS will open the Homestead during the Fall Into Knox Festival from 12-4 on Saturday, and 12-2 on Sunday. The following weekend during the Helderberg Hilltown Association Farms and Artisans Tour, we will open the Homestead from 12-2 on Sunday. The way Nancy phrased it in the newspaper, was to watch for the “Open” flag. Members present at the meeting volunteered to cover all shifts.
September 23 at the Berne Knox Westerlo High School at 6:30, Nancy asked that our volunteers arrive to set up for the 7:00 p.m. event. The BKW PTA provided a grant to present a Teddy Roosevelt re-enactment. We got volunteers for attending and handing out brochures (and possibly selling books), and a couple of offers for cookies (Dennis, Nancy and Kathleen). We could use more refreshment volunteers.
We have a vacancy on the Board of Trustees. Nancy made a motion that we elect Bill Donato to the Board. Kathleen seconded the motion. Motion carried. Ray Hand, and Glenn Humphrey are the other Board members.
We discussed how to move the Cave Crawl between two groups that want to borrow it on the same weekend. Dennis will let the first group come pick it up on Friday September 30 after work, and Mike Nardacci will bring it to the Octagon Barn for a fund raiser. Mike also wants to borrow maps of the Knox Cave, and that was approved by the Board of Trustees.
Cemetery Clean Up will be discussed at the October meeting.
In later September we will change the display at the Town Hall. It was decided to do a display of the Fife and Drum Corps. Donna will look for pictures and frames at the Homestead.
Having no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:40.
Respectfully submitted,
Kathleen Putzig, Secretary
Date September 6, 2016
The regular meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order by President Dennis Barber on September 6, 2016 at 7:12 p.m. Members present were Bill Donato, Nancy Frueh, Anna Wolfe, Donna Gwin, Maureen Driscoll and Kathleen Putzig.
Kathleen read the minutes from the August meeting. Donna Gwin asked that the minutes be corrected to show that she had the idea (rather than the Helderberg Hilltown Association) to move the quilt show to fall during the Farm and Artisan Tour weekend. With that correction, Donna moved that the meeting notes be approved. Anna seconded, and the motion carried.
There was a discussion of the Fall Into Knox Festival and Carnival, with posters and times clarified.
There was discussion of the gravestones on DEC property that had a tree dropped on them, and who should be notified. Anna said she would call the DEC Central Office to tell them what had happened.
Nancy reported on the Albany County History Collaborative meeting she attended. She met with the webmaster to update our information and the picture of the Saddlemire Homestead.
At that meeting, it was agreed that in future, the host site will provide a meeting room, and directions to that site, as well as refreshments but will not put on a program. The next meeting will be Nov. 5th at Spindle City Historical Society in Cohoes. The program will be on Heritage Tourism. (November is State History Month, but no special events are going to be planned.) They are discussing creating a virtual tour on the website of the Women’s Suffrage display
Feb. 11th is the second upcoming meeting scheduled, to be hosted by Colonie Historical with a program on Member Recruitment and Retention.
May 2017 will be hosted by the Bethlehem Historical Association. Those are the next 3 meetings planned.
Anna gave the Treasurer’s report. In the checking account we have $1,035.21. In savings we have $3544.52. In correspondence, we have an insurance bill, which is the same as it was last year. It covers $8000 in property damage. Kathleen made a motion that we pay the bill, and Nancy seconded. Motion carried.
The Merrymen’s Tea was a great success. Borrowed materials were returned.
Nancy is making more copies of a brochure of our most popular tour, the Helderberg Quilt Barn Trail.
New Business
Maureen Driscoll brought a collection of papers, pictures and books from Dan’s records. She brought Dan’s Fife and Drum Corps. uniform to donate to KHS. There were tin horns that Dan had made, and one that he had gotten as a souvenir from Berne during the Sesquicentennial. Bill made a motion that KHS accept everything Maureen donated. Donna seconded the motion. Motion carried. Dan’s daughter Debbie is continuing his work on the Lime Kilns.
KHS will open the Homestead during the Fall Into Knox Festival from 12-4 on Saturday, and 12-2 on Sunday. The following weekend during the Helderberg Hilltown Association Farms and Artisans Tour, we will open the Homestead from 12-2 on Sunday. The way Nancy phrased it in the newspaper, was to watch for the “Open” flag. Members present at the meeting volunteered to cover all shifts.
September 23 at the Berne Knox Westerlo High School at 6:30, Nancy asked that our volunteers arrive to set up for the 7:00 p.m. event. The BKW PTA provided a grant to present a Teddy Roosevelt re-enactment. We got volunteers for attending and handing out brochures (and possibly selling books), and a couple of offers for cookies (Dennis, Nancy and Kathleen). We could use more refreshment volunteers.
We have a vacancy on the Board of Trustees. Nancy made a motion that we elect Bill Donato to the Board. Kathleen seconded the motion. Motion carried. Ray Hand, and Glenn Humphrey are the other Board members.
We discussed how to move the Cave Crawl between two groups that want to borrow it on the same weekend. Dennis will let the first group come pick it up on Friday September 30 after work, and Mike Nardacci will bring it to the Octagon Barn for a fund raiser. Mike also wants to borrow maps of the Knox Cave, and that was approved by the Board of Trustees.
Cemetery Clean Up will be discussed at the October meeting.
In later September we will change the display at the Town Hall. It was decided to do a display of the Fife and Drum Corps. Donna will look for pictures and frames at the Homestead.
Having no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:40.
Respectfully submitted,
Kathleen Putzig, Secretary
Aug. 5, 2016
July 5, 2016
Knox Historical Society Meeting Minutes
Date July 5, 2016
The regular meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order by President Dennis Barber on July 5, 2016 at 8:10 p.m., following a presentation by Ray Hand and Nancy Frueh on Bouck White, his Helderberg “castle” known as Federalsburg, and his Bouckware pottery. Members present were Maureen Driscoll, Dan Driscoll, Donna Gwin, Charlene Stevens, Jayson Romanczuk, Bill Donato, Ray Hand, Nancy Frueh, Dennis Barber and Kathleen Putzig.
Committee Reports: Treasurer was not present. Donna reported that the Audit was completed and is fine.
Old Business:
There is no news on the electric sign the Town of Knox is trying to acquire.
We should send a thank you note to the BKW school board for the excellent work Colleen Skiff, Primary School Art Teacher did during our Art Show. Kathleen will send the note.
Bill and Dennis will be at the Homestead tomorrow for the first 12-2 Wednesday opening this summer.
Let Nancy know when we run low on printed material at the Homestead.
Nancy and Ray found a case of old copy paper in the upstairs closet. They moved it to the floor in the school room, and urged those officers who make copies to use it before it gets any more yellowed. Nancy took a ream and will try to be sure Anna gets one, also.
Quilt Show Saturday, July 17th: 35 Quilts have been registered for display. We need help on the morning of the 16th starting at 8 a.m. to get frames from the basement, and set up. We also need helpers on the 17th. The Berne Historical Society will also ask for helpers from their membership. The show runs from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. There will be a hand quilting presentation by Pat Lightbody, and penny rug making by Joanne Brady. Jane sent embroidery hoops to display samples she made from material donated by Mary Browne from her husband Steve’s grandmother. We are getting gift certificates from Township Tavern and Maple on the Lake. Maryann Saddlemire is donating certificates for pies which can be picked up at Newcomb’s Farm. The Maple gift certificate will go to the prize winner for needlework, and the Township gift certificate for visitors’ favorite quilt. We will also use items from the Berne and Knox Historical Societies such as commemorative plates, and history books. Sandra Stempel Kisselback from BHS is writing an article for the Altamont Enterprise and will also submit the information to the community calendars.
Dan Driscoll had donated a book on Historic Albany City and County that he purchased from the Albany County Historical Association, and Nancy read over the past month. She moved it be accessioned, Dan seconded the motion, and it carried.
John Elberfeld sent a CD on Bouck White, which Kathleen moved be accessioned and Nancy seconded. Motion carried.
Volunteering at the Homestead: Nancy has a print out of the tasks volunteers should do to open and close the Homestead each Wednesday, and will put it in the slot in the top of the desk in the main room. Ray made envelopes to record and store income received, which are also in the desk.
Thank you to Mike Nardacci for going through the accession list of items that should be in the Cave Room at the Homestead. Some items that had been accessioned were missing. Kathleen went with Mike to the Homestead, worked in the records room while he worked in the cave room, and took his report.
New Business:
Dennis met with Craig Saddlemire and his father, who were in town to visit Mr. Don Paul. They made a $100 donation to KHS and purchased a book on Helderberg History. They mentioned to Dennis that Mr. Paul has items from WWII he might donate to KHS. Dennis will contact Mr. Saddlemire to thank him and ask about WWII items to look out for when the house is eventually cleaned out.
Dan gave a report on lime kilns. On June 11th New Scotland dedicated a historic marker at Lime Kiln Farm. Dan wrote an article for the Altamont Enterprise explaining about lime kilns and asking people to contact him if they knew of any. Dennis got a call from a woman with 2 lime kilns, perhaps on Beaver Dam Road. He will send the information to Dan, who will contact her. Dan plans to study aerial photos and laser imaging to see if he can find evidence of lime kilns in the area. The past president of Clarksville Historical Society has done research, but Dan has not been able to reach him yet.
Paula Shafer invited Dan to visit her father, Ray Shafer, who is almost 102 years old. Dan did an interview, which he recorded. It needs to be transcribed.
The Pulliam twins’ presentation is scheduled for the August 2nd meeting on School # 12 at7 p.m. Nancy will advertise it.
It was noted that some historical markers, especially in the Town of Berne, are in very bad shape. BOCES has a welding program. They may be able to help restoring historical markers. Dan has the paint and a booklet on how to do the restoration. We should ask permission from land owners before fixing the markers.
There is no new information on the Knox Fall Festival.
The Knox Newsletter has not been released yet.
The Teddy Roosevelt re-enactment will be at the BKW HS auditorium September 23rd. Please bring refreshments.
Donna showed us a marble doorstop received from Lou Saddlemire. She got the history of it and we can accession it. It is from approximately 1900 – 1920, and is engraved with “Lahndorff.” It is from the Elmer Becker house now owned by Dave Poole, and was previously a public bar or restaurant with various names such as Carmody’s, Flo & Jo’s, and Wolf’s. Donna moved to accession the doorstop, and Dan seconded the motion, which passed.
Margaret Torok is moving. She gave KHS Sesquicentennial Celebration scrap books. Kathleen moved to accept and accession these, and Nancy seconded the motion, which passed.
Jamie Tubbs visited Dennis and has items to donate to KHS, including some from Knox Cave.
Hearing no other business, this meeting was adjourned at 9:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Kathleen Putzig, Secretary
Date July 5, 2016
The regular meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order by President Dennis Barber on July 5, 2016 at 8:10 p.m., following a presentation by Ray Hand and Nancy Frueh on Bouck White, his Helderberg “castle” known as Federalsburg, and his Bouckware pottery. Members present were Maureen Driscoll, Dan Driscoll, Donna Gwin, Charlene Stevens, Jayson Romanczuk, Bill Donato, Ray Hand, Nancy Frueh, Dennis Barber and Kathleen Putzig.
Committee Reports: Treasurer was not present. Donna reported that the Audit was completed and is fine.
Old Business:
There is no news on the electric sign the Town of Knox is trying to acquire.
We should send a thank you note to the BKW school board for the excellent work Colleen Skiff, Primary School Art Teacher did during our Art Show. Kathleen will send the note.
Bill and Dennis will be at the Homestead tomorrow for the first 12-2 Wednesday opening this summer.
Let Nancy know when we run low on printed material at the Homestead.
Nancy and Ray found a case of old copy paper in the upstairs closet. They moved it to the floor in the school room, and urged those officers who make copies to use it before it gets any more yellowed. Nancy took a ream and will try to be sure Anna gets one, also.
Quilt Show Saturday, July 17th: 35 Quilts have been registered for display. We need help on the morning of the 16th starting at 8 a.m. to get frames from the basement, and set up. We also need helpers on the 17th. The Berne Historical Society will also ask for helpers from their membership. The show runs from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. There will be a hand quilting presentation by Pat Lightbody, and penny rug making by Joanne Brady. Jane sent embroidery hoops to display samples she made from material donated by Mary Browne from her husband Steve’s grandmother. We are getting gift certificates from Township Tavern and Maple on the Lake. Maryann Saddlemire is donating certificates for pies which can be picked up at Newcomb’s Farm. The Maple gift certificate will go to the prize winner for needlework, and the Township gift certificate for visitors’ favorite quilt. We will also use items from the Berne and Knox Historical Societies such as commemorative plates, and history books. Sandra Stempel Kisselback from BHS is writing an article for the Altamont Enterprise and will also submit the information to the community calendars.
Dan Driscoll had donated a book on Historic Albany City and County that he purchased from the Albany County Historical Association, and Nancy read over the past month. She moved it be accessioned, Dan seconded the motion, and it carried.
John Elberfeld sent a CD on Bouck White, which Kathleen moved be accessioned and Nancy seconded. Motion carried.
Volunteering at the Homestead: Nancy has a print out of the tasks volunteers should do to open and close the Homestead each Wednesday, and will put it in the slot in the top of the desk in the main room. Ray made envelopes to record and store income received, which are also in the desk.
Thank you to Mike Nardacci for going through the accession list of items that should be in the Cave Room at the Homestead. Some items that had been accessioned were missing. Kathleen went with Mike to the Homestead, worked in the records room while he worked in the cave room, and took his report.
New Business:
Dennis met with Craig Saddlemire and his father, who were in town to visit Mr. Don Paul. They made a $100 donation to KHS and purchased a book on Helderberg History. They mentioned to Dennis that Mr. Paul has items from WWII he might donate to KHS. Dennis will contact Mr. Saddlemire to thank him and ask about WWII items to look out for when the house is eventually cleaned out.
Dan gave a report on lime kilns. On June 11th New Scotland dedicated a historic marker at Lime Kiln Farm. Dan wrote an article for the Altamont Enterprise explaining about lime kilns and asking people to contact him if they knew of any. Dennis got a call from a woman with 2 lime kilns, perhaps on Beaver Dam Road. He will send the information to Dan, who will contact her. Dan plans to study aerial photos and laser imaging to see if he can find evidence of lime kilns in the area. The past president of Clarksville Historical Society has done research, but Dan has not been able to reach him yet.
Paula Shafer invited Dan to visit her father, Ray Shafer, who is almost 102 years old. Dan did an interview, which he recorded. It needs to be transcribed.
The Pulliam twins’ presentation is scheduled for the August 2nd meeting on School # 12 at7 p.m. Nancy will advertise it.
It was noted that some historical markers, especially in the Town of Berne, are in very bad shape. BOCES has a welding program. They may be able to help restoring historical markers. Dan has the paint and a booklet on how to do the restoration. We should ask permission from land owners before fixing the markers.
There is no new information on the Knox Fall Festival.
The Knox Newsletter has not been released yet.
The Teddy Roosevelt re-enactment will be at the BKW HS auditorium September 23rd. Please bring refreshments.
Donna showed us a marble doorstop received from Lou Saddlemire. She got the history of it and we can accession it. It is from approximately 1900 – 1920, and is engraved with “Lahndorff.” It is from the Elmer Becker house now owned by Dave Poole, and was previously a public bar or restaurant with various names such as Carmody’s, Flo & Jo’s, and Wolf’s. Donna moved to accession the doorstop, and Dan seconded the motion, which passed.
Margaret Torok is moving. She gave KHS Sesquicentennial Celebration scrap books. Kathleen moved to accept and accession these, and Nancy seconded the motion, which passed.
Jamie Tubbs visited Dennis and has items to donate to KHS, including some from Knox Cave.
Hearing no other business, this meeting was adjourned at 9:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Kathleen Putzig, Secretary
June 7, 2016 minutes
Knox Historical Society Meeting Minutes
Date June 7, 2016
1. The regular meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order by President Dennis Barber on June 7, 2016 at 8 p.m. Members present were Maureen Driscoll, Dan Driscoll, Anna Wolfe, Donna Gwin, Bill Donato, Ray Hand, Nancy Frueh, Ann Hein, Kathleen Putzig. Visitors were Kris Driessen, Marie Viscio, Sheila J. Galvin and Margaret Torok.
2. Reading of the Minutes of the last meeting: Kathleen Putzig
Corrections to last month’s minutes: – Indian Ladder Farms in Voorheesville, not Altamont as stated previously. No presentation of suitcases of history was done at school yet. The minutes are accepted as corrected.
3. Treasurer’s Report: income 209.30. Checking Account balance 1033.16. Savings account balance $3543.63. Total assets: $4576.79.
4. Lime Kiln Historic Marker will be unveiled July 7. 10 a.m. This information was received in a correspondence from New Scotland Historical Association.
5. Dan Driscoll is interested in learning more about Lime Kilns in Knox. Lime was harvested off of Street Road for lime kilns.
6. We got a Guilderland Historical Society Newsletter. There is an article about old Memorial Day observations. Of special interest in the article was a mention that the Altamont Post of the GAR, a Civil War veterans’ group, was named after Knox’s MH Barckley (Post 198) and it dissolved when the last members died in 1928.
7. The postcard from the William Pomeroy Foundation stated that they will now consider markers for myths and other types of local lore. KHS has shared that information with Jayson Romanczuk, in case he wants to pursue it for the Witches’ Grave. KHS had previously voted to stick to strictly historical applications.
Old Business
1. Thanks to those who worked on the flooring project and cleaned the homestead, provided and served refreshments, and greeted visitors on Memorial Day.
2. Donna completed the audit. She approves the Treasurer’s info.
3. Report from Donna on Quilt Show – all is going fine. 26 promised so far. Berne is working on it. We have needlework pictures. Knitted items will be displayed in a side room. Flyers are being distributed. There is a request for items at the Spinning Room. There is info on our website and our Facebook page. She has sent info to the Altamont Enterprise, and Rural Roots as well as putting up posters.
4. Treasurer’s business: Anna submitted a bill for $130: $30 for woman to advise on care for the quilt; $119.85 for flooring supplies (1 gallon tung oil, 2 microfiber heads). There were considerable other expenses which Anna covered on her own as a gift, for which KHS is very thankful. $149.85 total. Motion made by Nancy Frueh and seconded by Donna Gwin to pay this bill. Carried.
5. Katherine Greenwald gave advice on the quilt. She is a textile expert recommended by Jane McLean. Ms. Greenwald didn’t think the Bicentennial Quilt needed to be cleaned. None of us are willing to risk damaging the quilt by cleaning it if it isn’t essential. We decided to display it in the summer, air it out on a king sized quilt in the sun on a nice day in the fall, and store it at the Town Hall during the winter. Anna secured permission from Supervisor Vas to do this. Due to the floor replacement project, it had been stored in a plastic tote for the winter, and was damp, so we know that is not a good way to store it in the future. She estimated that the quilt was worth $2500. We could get the quilts formally assessed for value for $25 each, which could be used for insurance purposes. The advisor [Katherine Greenwald] gave us a sheet on care and cleaning of quilts. She noted that none of the quilts were identified and recommended putting a muslin label with information about the quilt on each quilt. Donna noted that none of the quilts were ever accessioned. The Wolford Quilt from 1888 was a gift from Zenie Gladieux. Donna will check the minutes to get background information on the quilts, especially the 1920’s Dresden Plate Quilt.
6. Nancy reported that the Teddy Roosevelt re-enactor program is all set for Friday, September 23, 2016 at 7:00 pm at the BKW High School Auditorium. Mr. Bentley filed the building use form, the PTA has agreed to pay the $175.00 fee directly to Mr. Paul Stillman after the presentation that evening, and Nancy has a confirmation email from Mr. Stillman indicating that he will speak in character for an hour presentation, and then entertain questions from the audience, followed by a meet and greet where the students can take their picture with him. KHS will serve refreshments and have KHS membership information available. Dennis will contact Noreen Shunney, the Superintendent’s secretary, and ask that it be included on the school calendar.
7. Student Art Show 6/18/16 discussion: Town Hall can be reserved starting 1 so the kids can set up. We need volunteers for tending the Homestead and bringing refreshments. Dennis can bring a refreshment. Kathleen will advertise through the Path Through History.
8. Cemetery clean up – We decided on July 7th 5-8 and 23rd 9-1. We need an email person to alert the whole membership and send info if there is cancellation. Kathleen will include it with the request for help on Wednesdays.
9. Mark your calendars for the Tea honoring Merrymen’s Tea House August 13th 2-4 pm. Gil and Warrin Brower will be attending.
New Business
1. Anna, Dan and Kathleen reported on the ACHC (Albany County History Collaborative) meeting they attended in May. Dan brought a book on Historic Albany City and County that we may decide to accession. The collaborative want us to send in information on links and a contact person (info@albanycountyhistory.org). Dennis has been and will continue to be the contact person. Devon Landers is the NYS Historian. They are working on ideas for NY State History Month in November. They don’t have a theme for 2016, but in 2017 it will be the 100th anniversary of Women’s Suffrage. On August 27th KHS is hosting the next meeting
2. Kathleen passed around a sign-up sheet asking for volunteers to staff the Homestead on Wednesdays 12-2 in July and August. Nancy will look for the envelopes the treasurer used to provide that made it easy to account for the monies taken in at the Homestead.
3. Anna will send out reminders for dues.
4. John and Jane sent us a gift of a book they wrote on Life in Knox at the Start of the 21st Century. Anna has filled out the accession papers for it. She moved to accept it. Ray seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
5. Anna had two items she got at a yard sale from Dr. Kolanchik’s. One is an enamel cook pot, white with a red rim and handles. It may be from the 1930s. The other was a nut grinder perhaps from the 1940s with a cut class bottom and a metal top with a red handle. The house was on the corner of Witter Rd and the Berne Altamont Rd. It was called Point View Farm and owned by the Greissel family. Dr. Kolanchick’s parents Eldy and John were the second owners. We have a red enamel dish that doesn’t seem to be accessioned in the Homestead. Anna filled out the paperwork to accession the items, and motioned they be accepted. Nancy seconded the motion, and it was carried.
6. Margaret Torok donated 7 old mason jars from her house. The old ones seem to be from the early 1900s. Donna has been researching them. They were in the basement at the house labeled as the oldest house in West Berne, which is in the town of Knox. Donna moved to accession these, and will fill out the paperwork, research the ages and types of jars and make labels. Nancy seconded, and it was carried.
7. Donna has accessioned over 120 books so far, and is still working on that project. Donna will talk to Marijo Doherty, the Altamont archivist for advice on taking care of the books.
8. Donna researched when our Weebly website bills have been paid in the past, and determined it was in May, so she renewed our service and is submitting a bill for $59.92 for the renewal.
9. Knox is going to be having a newsletter published twice a year. It will be going out in July. Dennis will be submitting a brief article on the history of the Knox Historical Society. Kathleen will be doing a short article on the position of Town Historian.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:34.
A presentation was given before the meeting by Kris Driessen about sacks, their history and uses. She had several examples, and also gave the KHS a copy of her typed information.
Respectfully submitted by
Kathleen Putzig, Secretary
May 3, 2016 minutes
The regular meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order on May 3, 2016 at 7:05 pm by President Dennis Barber. Members present were Donna Gwin, Charlene Stevens, Ray Hand, Bill Donato, Angel Smith, Anna Wolfe, Dan Driscoll and Nancy Frueh.
The minutes of the last meeting were read and corrected to show that the HHA tour is Sunday, September 18, (not 20th) and the Homestead will be open from 12 to 2 that day.
Anna gave the treasurer’s report showing $ 824.16 in the SEFCU checking account and $3,543.33 in the SEFCU savings account.
Anna reported that we received a flyer from Jeff and Pam O’Connor, who work at the Old Stone Fort in Schoharie, advertising their new business venture, Turning Point 1777, which provides living history and hands-on programs, specializing in the Colonial and Revolutionary War periods in the Schoharie and Mohawk Valleys. Anna suggested we consider the “pocket” Pam makes, inscribed with the date of our founding, as a possible fund-raiser for our bicentennial.
We also received the monthly newsletter from the Guilderland Historical Society.
Anna forwarded the thank you we received last month for the wonderful driving tours to John and Jane, who did most of the work in creating those tours.
Under Old Business, Dennis announced that the new flooring is in place, thanks to Bill Donato, Anna Wolfe, Glenn Humphrey, Dennis Barber, and the work party from the prison. Ray and Bill agreed to try to meet on Monday at 11 AM to apply the first coat of tung oil.
Details concerning the Art Show for June 18 are still in flux. Nancy and Kathleen will continue to work with the elementary art teacher and the 4th grade teachers to determine the details. If it ends up being held at BKW school on Monday, June 20, Dennis would be available to emcee and Donna would be available to greet guests and hand out our literature.
The new electronic sign for the town events has hit a snag, since it must be on town property, not on fire department property. We will wait for resolution of this problem before moving our sign. Bill and Dennis think they have a location in mind that would not impede the sight distance of the proposed electronic sign, and would still advertise our existence and display our quilts.
Nancy spoke with Maryellen Gillis about getting a presentation of our Sesquicentennial Books to the Schoharie Schools before she retires in June, but has heard nothing back. Nancy will try again.
Anna has given Donna the financial records for audit, and Donna will report at the next meeting.
Nancy moved, and Bill seconded, that we invite Kris Driessen, of the Quilt Bug Shop, to speak before our June 7 meeting on the History of Feedsack Sewing and Quilting, and offer her a $20.00 honorarium. Carried.
Donna reported that she has added an “In the News” tab to our website, and it currently features an article about Dan Driscoll IPA, a beer brewed at Indian Ladder Farmstead Cidery and Brewery in Altamont. Forms for the quilt show are also available under this tab.
Donna will send information on the quilt show to the Knox Rural Roots newsletter and to the Altamont Enterprise. Charlene reported that the Voorheesville quilting group will distribute our flyers during their show on the same dates.
Anna is working on getting recommendations concerning cleaning the Bicentennial Quilt.
Nancy is still working with Mr. Bentley on getting a Teddy Roosevelt re-enactor program.
Mr. Bentley, from the BKW Social Studies department, is looking for a student to help us with Facebook, but has not found anyone yet. Nancy stated that perhaps she could learn to do it, since she does the publicity for most of our events.
There will be a Craft Fair and Harvest Fair outside the Knox Town Hall on September 10. It will have many of the same vendors as the Thatcher Park Fall Festival. The group decided we should be represented, but more details are needed. Nancy will send in the application. If the event is actually being held in the parking lot, it was suggested we simply open the shed door of the Homestead and post our “open” sign. If it is in the park pavilion, we will need to set up a table and have some sort of objects on display to attract attention, along with our membership brochures and driving tours.
Our subscription for Weebly, the provider that we use for our website, expires May 11, 2016. It will cost $49.99 to extend it for another year. Donna will talk with Jane to review the details, and then renew it, and submit the bill at our next meeting.
Nancy helped Dennis give the President’s Annual Report, stating that over 150 people signed our guest book during the year. We presented Suit Cases of History to about 80 students at BKW. Nothing of value was de-accessioned. Two new historic markers were installed. The kitchen exhibit was redone. The upstairs storage room was refurbished, bi-fold doors were installed, and it is now home to our potty chair and health exhibit. A new floor was installed in the front room of the Saddlemire Homestead. It was a very successful year, and Dennis found it to be very rewarding. We have lots more projects on the horizon for 2016-17.
One of the projects Dennis would like to see in the next year is a tribute to the original founders of the Knox Historical Society. Dennis will try to interview Fred Oettinger soon.
We also have the cemetery clean-up project, and the wainscoting still needs to be installed in the school room.
Bill and Dennis suggested putting screens in the cellar windows of the Homestead to improve ventilation in the building.
Nancy suggested that Donna contact Marijo Dougherty, the archivist in Altamont, for recommendations about how to preserve the books in the school room.
Bill asked that files sent by email be pdf files, and not Word documents, since he and others cannot open Word files.
The nominating committee of Dan Driscoll and Nancy Frueh reported the following slate of officers: President, Dennis Barber; Vice-President, Nancy Frueh; Secretary, Kathleen Putzig; Treasurer, Anna Wolfe, and Trustees Dan Driscoll, Ray Hand, and Glenn Humphrey. Bill moved, and Dan seconded, that the secretary cast one ballot for the slate of officers presented by the nominating committee. Carried. According to our by-laws, the officers assume their duties at the end of this meeting.
Hearing no more business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:15 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Frueh, Secretary
The minutes of the last meeting were read and corrected to show that the HHA tour is Sunday, September 18, (not 20th) and the Homestead will be open from 12 to 2 that day.
Anna gave the treasurer’s report showing $ 824.16 in the SEFCU checking account and $3,543.33 in the SEFCU savings account.
Anna reported that we received a flyer from Jeff and Pam O’Connor, who work at the Old Stone Fort in Schoharie, advertising their new business venture, Turning Point 1777, which provides living history and hands-on programs, specializing in the Colonial and Revolutionary War periods in the Schoharie and Mohawk Valleys. Anna suggested we consider the “pocket” Pam makes, inscribed with the date of our founding, as a possible fund-raiser for our bicentennial.
We also received the monthly newsletter from the Guilderland Historical Society.
Anna forwarded the thank you we received last month for the wonderful driving tours to John and Jane, who did most of the work in creating those tours.
Under Old Business, Dennis announced that the new flooring is in place, thanks to Bill Donato, Anna Wolfe, Glenn Humphrey, Dennis Barber, and the work party from the prison. Ray and Bill agreed to try to meet on Monday at 11 AM to apply the first coat of tung oil.
Details concerning the Art Show for June 18 are still in flux. Nancy and Kathleen will continue to work with the elementary art teacher and the 4th grade teachers to determine the details. If it ends up being held at BKW school on Monday, June 20, Dennis would be available to emcee and Donna would be available to greet guests and hand out our literature.
The new electronic sign for the town events has hit a snag, since it must be on town property, not on fire department property. We will wait for resolution of this problem before moving our sign. Bill and Dennis think they have a location in mind that would not impede the sight distance of the proposed electronic sign, and would still advertise our existence and display our quilts.
Nancy spoke with Maryellen Gillis about getting a presentation of our Sesquicentennial Books to the Schoharie Schools before she retires in June, but has heard nothing back. Nancy will try again.
Anna has given Donna the financial records for audit, and Donna will report at the next meeting.
Nancy moved, and Bill seconded, that we invite Kris Driessen, of the Quilt Bug Shop, to speak before our June 7 meeting on the History of Feedsack Sewing and Quilting, and offer her a $20.00 honorarium. Carried.
Donna reported that she has added an “In the News” tab to our website, and it currently features an article about Dan Driscoll IPA, a beer brewed at Indian Ladder Farmstead Cidery and Brewery in Altamont. Forms for the quilt show are also available under this tab.
Donna will send information on the quilt show to the Knox Rural Roots newsletter and to the Altamont Enterprise. Charlene reported that the Voorheesville quilting group will distribute our flyers during their show on the same dates.
Anna is working on getting recommendations concerning cleaning the Bicentennial Quilt.
Nancy is still working with Mr. Bentley on getting a Teddy Roosevelt re-enactor program.
Mr. Bentley, from the BKW Social Studies department, is looking for a student to help us with Facebook, but has not found anyone yet. Nancy stated that perhaps she could learn to do it, since she does the publicity for most of our events.
There will be a Craft Fair and Harvest Fair outside the Knox Town Hall on September 10. It will have many of the same vendors as the Thatcher Park Fall Festival. The group decided we should be represented, but more details are needed. Nancy will send in the application. If the event is actually being held in the parking lot, it was suggested we simply open the shed door of the Homestead and post our “open” sign. If it is in the park pavilion, we will need to set up a table and have some sort of objects on display to attract attention, along with our membership brochures and driving tours.
Our subscription for Weebly, the provider that we use for our website, expires May 11, 2016. It will cost $49.99 to extend it for another year. Donna will talk with Jane to review the details, and then renew it, and submit the bill at our next meeting.
Nancy helped Dennis give the President’s Annual Report, stating that over 150 people signed our guest book during the year. We presented Suit Cases of History to about 80 students at BKW. Nothing of value was de-accessioned. Two new historic markers were installed. The kitchen exhibit was redone. The upstairs storage room was refurbished, bi-fold doors were installed, and it is now home to our potty chair and health exhibit. A new floor was installed in the front room of the Saddlemire Homestead. It was a very successful year, and Dennis found it to be very rewarding. We have lots more projects on the horizon for 2016-17.
One of the projects Dennis would like to see in the next year is a tribute to the original founders of the Knox Historical Society. Dennis will try to interview Fred Oettinger soon.
We also have the cemetery clean-up project, and the wainscoting still needs to be installed in the school room.
Bill and Dennis suggested putting screens in the cellar windows of the Homestead to improve ventilation in the building.
Nancy suggested that Donna contact Marijo Dougherty, the archivist in Altamont, for recommendations about how to preserve the books in the school room.
Bill asked that files sent by email be pdf files, and not Word documents, since he and others cannot open Word files.
The nominating committee of Dan Driscoll and Nancy Frueh reported the following slate of officers: President, Dennis Barber; Vice-President, Nancy Frueh; Secretary, Kathleen Putzig; Treasurer, Anna Wolfe, and Trustees Dan Driscoll, Ray Hand, and Glenn Humphrey. Bill moved, and Dan seconded, that the secretary cast one ballot for the slate of officers presented by the nominating committee. Carried. According to our by-laws, the officers assume their duties at the end of this meeting.
Hearing no more business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:15 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Frueh, Secretary
The regular meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order on April 5, 2016 by President Dennis Barber, following a presentation by Jim Spencer on his 1700’s stone house, located on the Bozenkill. This is believed to be the oldest structure in Knox, and the Society is privileged to have a copy of the research binder prepared by Alan Dietz about this property in its collection. It is believed that this property served as a tavern in the 18th century. Guests present to hear the presentation were Deb and Thom Breitenbach, Bob Griffin, and Ralph and Jan Miller.
Members present were Donna Gwin, Bill Donato, Kathleen & Bart Putzig, Anna Wolfe, Ray Hand, Charlene Stevens, and Nancy Frueh.
Nancy read the minutes of the last meeting, and hearing no corrections, they were accepted as presented.
Anna gave the treasurer’s report, showing $ 458.46 in the SEFCU Checking account and $ 3,543.04 in the SEFCU Savings account.
We received a copy of The Art Conservator magazine from Williams College, newsletters from the New Scotland Historical Association and the Pruyn House, and we received a nice thank you note from members of the Spindle City Historical Society (Cohoes, NY), thanking us for the excellent driving tour of our new world Dutch Barns. Nancy suggested that Anna scan and email the note to John Elberfeld and Jane McLean, since they are the ones who did most of the work to produce the driving tour.
Anna also noticed that Cohoes had recently presented a program on preserving historic textiles, and will contact their presenter to see if she is available to do a program for us, and determine what the cost would be. She will also seek a recommendation on how to clean the Bicentennial Quilt.
Nancy presented the bill for our newly printed membership brochures. The treasurer will keep a supply and the rest will be stored in the Homestead once the floor project is completed.
Bill reported on the cemetery clean-up project, which will be attempted after the floor project is completed. We simply need to let Mr. Dean know when we’re going to be there. We should car-pool from the Museum, as a limited number of cars can park in his yard, and they would prefer we not park on the road. Brush-clearing tools will be needed like a weed-eater, leaf blower, small chainsaw, pruning shears and rakes. Mr. Dean offered the use of his tractor if it is needed.
The Albany County History Collaborative meeting was held in New Scotland on March 12, with Dennis, Kathleen, and Dan attending. Dennis reported that the ACHC is still a work-in-progress, and we will be hosting the next meeting on August 27. Nancy will email the link to their website to everyone. This is going to be a great resource for sharing links and information amongst historical societies. Kathleen also noted that Bethlehem historian, Susan Leath, is willing to give a program on her new book about Bethlehem history.
The Nominating Committee of Dan Driscoll and Nancy Frueh presented the proposed slate of officers: President, Dennis Barber; Vice president, Nancy Frueh; Secretary, Kathleen Putzig; Treasurer, Anna Wolfe; Trustees: Ray Hand, Dan Driscoll, Glenn Humphrey.
Kathleen has been working with Colleen Skiff, the BKW art teacher for grades K-9, trying to develop a possible program for June 18th. Kathleen will be presenting the Civil War Suitcase of History to 4thgrade art classes, and Colleen is trying to work up an art project around this theme.
Nancy reported that, due to a scheduling conflict, the grange program will be postponed to 2017, and a tea honoring Merryman’s Tea House will be presented on August 13, 2016. Jacki Reed-Perry, a re-enactor from Mechanicville, has agreed to provide the tea and tea service for us at no charge. Kathleen moved and Bart seconded that we offer her a $30.00 honorarium. Carried. We are working with Gil Warren and his older brother to try to serve treats from the original tea house recipes. If that is not possible, Nancy has cookbooks from that era. Gil also suggested that we contact the families of former employees and invite them to participate in the program. We also have the guest book that Leslie Brower kept of all her patrons, and will try to have that scanned and searchable for this event. We’ll try to find period background music to play, too.
Nancy staffed a Knox Historical Society information table at the Kiwanis pancake breakfast, using her laptop to show the ACHC website, which rotates through photos from our website. It attracted a lot of attention and many membership brochures were handed out.
Kathleen, as town historian, will be looking into getting some buildings, and maybe even the hamlet, onto the National Register of Historic Places, especially during the bicentennial year of 2022, or as lead-up activities in preparation thereof.
A new historic marker is another possibility. Nancy and Kathleen have also been discussing other possible projects, including limited-edition Christmas ornaments, a calendar, a cookbook, and maybe a new plate.
Under new business, a discussion of installing the floor in the front room of the Museum was held. Supervisor Vas has offered the assistance of the prisoner work party, if needed. Volunteers will be there to help, and to direct the work party.
The town is working on getting an electronic sign to replace the fire department sign and to promote town events. They have asked if we could move our sign since it blocks the sight distance of the proposed electronic sign. The group decided to give President Dennis the executive authority to make the final decision, but recommended that its orientation stay the same and look for a location closer to the upper driveway that does not block the proposed sign sight distance so much.
It was decided that the Museum will be open from 10 am to 1 pm on Memorial Day. Dennis, Bill and Ray volunteered to staff the museum and hand out membership brochures and event schedules. Donna and Dennis will provide cookies, and Nancy will provide something to drink, and make sure the table cloth and supplies box is there. Nancy will also contact Mike Nardacci to see if he can help out that day.
Donna reported that the quilt show is on for Sunday, July 17, and Berne Historical Society will be participating with us. Voorheesville has a show the same weekend, but we are asking if they would allow us to have flyers for our show available at their show, since theirs is both days. There was room for 55 bed-size quilts upstairs at our show two years ago, so the plan is to have space for 25 quilts from each town, and wiggle-room of five quilts. Knitted and crocheted work will be displayed in the side rooms on tables. Downstairs will only be utilized if we have an over-flow situation. Pat Lightbody will be doing some quilting demonstrations and they are talking to Joanne Brady of Berne about doing some rug-making demonstrations. Charlene will broach the subject of a shared flyer or cross-advertising with the Voorheesville group at their next meeting.
We decided the Homestead will be open for the Helderberg Hilltown Association driving tour on Sunday, September 20 from 12 to 2.
Hearing no other business, the meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Frueh, Secretary
Members present were Donna Gwin, Bill Donato, Kathleen & Bart Putzig, Anna Wolfe, Ray Hand, Charlene Stevens, and Nancy Frueh.
Nancy read the minutes of the last meeting, and hearing no corrections, they were accepted as presented.
Anna gave the treasurer’s report, showing $ 458.46 in the SEFCU Checking account and $ 3,543.04 in the SEFCU Savings account.
We received a copy of The Art Conservator magazine from Williams College, newsletters from the New Scotland Historical Association and the Pruyn House, and we received a nice thank you note from members of the Spindle City Historical Society (Cohoes, NY), thanking us for the excellent driving tour of our new world Dutch Barns. Nancy suggested that Anna scan and email the note to John Elberfeld and Jane McLean, since they are the ones who did most of the work to produce the driving tour.
Anna also noticed that Cohoes had recently presented a program on preserving historic textiles, and will contact their presenter to see if she is available to do a program for us, and determine what the cost would be. She will also seek a recommendation on how to clean the Bicentennial Quilt.
Nancy presented the bill for our newly printed membership brochures. The treasurer will keep a supply and the rest will be stored in the Homestead once the floor project is completed.
Bill reported on the cemetery clean-up project, which will be attempted after the floor project is completed. We simply need to let Mr. Dean know when we’re going to be there. We should car-pool from the Museum, as a limited number of cars can park in his yard, and they would prefer we not park on the road. Brush-clearing tools will be needed like a weed-eater, leaf blower, small chainsaw, pruning shears and rakes. Mr. Dean offered the use of his tractor if it is needed.
The Albany County History Collaborative meeting was held in New Scotland on March 12, with Dennis, Kathleen, and Dan attending. Dennis reported that the ACHC is still a work-in-progress, and we will be hosting the next meeting on August 27. Nancy will email the link to their website to everyone. This is going to be a great resource for sharing links and information amongst historical societies. Kathleen also noted that Bethlehem historian, Susan Leath, is willing to give a program on her new book about Bethlehem history.
The Nominating Committee of Dan Driscoll and Nancy Frueh presented the proposed slate of officers: President, Dennis Barber; Vice president, Nancy Frueh; Secretary, Kathleen Putzig; Treasurer, Anna Wolfe; Trustees: Ray Hand, Dan Driscoll, Glenn Humphrey.
Kathleen has been working with Colleen Skiff, the BKW art teacher for grades K-9, trying to develop a possible program for June 18th. Kathleen will be presenting the Civil War Suitcase of History to 4thgrade art classes, and Colleen is trying to work up an art project around this theme.
Nancy reported that, due to a scheduling conflict, the grange program will be postponed to 2017, and a tea honoring Merryman’s Tea House will be presented on August 13, 2016. Jacki Reed-Perry, a re-enactor from Mechanicville, has agreed to provide the tea and tea service for us at no charge. Kathleen moved and Bart seconded that we offer her a $30.00 honorarium. Carried. We are working with Gil Warren and his older brother to try to serve treats from the original tea house recipes. If that is not possible, Nancy has cookbooks from that era. Gil also suggested that we contact the families of former employees and invite them to participate in the program. We also have the guest book that Leslie Brower kept of all her patrons, and will try to have that scanned and searchable for this event. We’ll try to find period background music to play, too.
Nancy staffed a Knox Historical Society information table at the Kiwanis pancake breakfast, using her laptop to show the ACHC website, which rotates through photos from our website. It attracted a lot of attention and many membership brochures were handed out.
Kathleen, as town historian, will be looking into getting some buildings, and maybe even the hamlet, onto the National Register of Historic Places, especially during the bicentennial year of 2022, or as lead-up activities in preparation thereof.
A new historic marker is another possibility. Nancy and Kathleen have also been discussing other possible projects, including limited-edition Christmas ornaments, a calendar, a cookbook, and maybe a new plate.
Under new business, a discussion of installing the floor in the front room of the Museum was held. Supervisor Vas has offered the assistance of the prisoner work party, if needed. Volunteers will be there to help, and to direct the work party.
The town is working on getting an electronic sign to replace the fire department sign and to promote town events. They have asked if we could move our sign since it blocks the sight distance of the proposed electronic sign. The group decided to give President Dennis the executive authority to make the final decision, but recommended that its orientation stay the same and look for a location closer to the upper driveway that does not block the proposed sign sight distance so much.
It was decided that the Museum will be open from 10 am to 1 pm on Memorial Day. Dennis, Bill and Ray volunteered to staff the museum and hand out membership brochures and event schedules. Donna and Dennis will provide cookies, and Nancy will provide something to drink, and make sure the table cloth and supplies box is there. Nancy will also contact Mike Nardacci to see if he can help out that day.
Donna reported that the quilt show is on for Sunday, July 17, and Berne Historical Society will be participating with us. Voorheesville has a show the same weekend, but we are asking if they would allow us to have flyers for our show available at their show, since theirs is both days. There was room for 55 bed-size quilts upstairs at our show two years ago, so the plan is to have space for 25 quilts from each town, and wiggle-room of five quilts. Knitted and crocheted work will be displayed in the side rooms on tables. Downstairs will only be utilized if we have an over-flow situation. Pat Lightbody will be doing some quilting demonstrations and they are talking to Joanne Brady of Berne about doing some rug-making demonstrations. Charlene will broach the subject of a shared flyer or cross-advertising with the Voorheesville group at their next meeting.
We decided the Homestead will be open for the Helderberg Hilltown Association driving tour on Sunday, September 20 from 12 to 2.
Hearing no other business, the meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Frueh, Secretary
MARCH 1, 2016 MINUTES
The regular meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order on March 1, 2016 by President Dennis Barber at 7:05 pm. Members present were Nancy Frueh, Bill Donato, Donna Gwin, Dan Driscoll, Kathleen Putzig, Ray Hand, and later, Anna Wolfe.
Nancy read the minutes of the last meeting, and hearing no corrections, they were accepted as presented.
With the unexpected absence of the treasurer, we moved on to Old and New Business.
Dennis has been trying to contact the owner of the 1700’s house on Bozenkill Road with no success. Bill will attempt to make the contact.
Bill has contacted the caretaker of the Bob Simonson place, who thinks restoring the cemetery there is a great idea, and will help us make contact with Bob Simonson, the owner, who lives in New York City (Brooklyn) and visits here about twice a month. Mr. Dean, the caretaker, will also see if there are any more records of historical value there, too. Mr. Simonson would be a good candidate for an oral history interview.
Dennis also mentioned that there is a cemetery on Gibbs Road where all the stones are laying down, which is another possible restoration project.
Nancy is still trying to contact student, Michelle Ferraino, to see if she is interested in taking care of our Facebook page. If not, Nancy will attempt to follow up with Mr. Wright or Mr. Bentley of the Social Studies department at BKW.
Nancy will also continue to talk to Mr. Bentley and the Old Stone Fort to see if we can make a Teddy Roosevelt re-enactor event happen on September 30, 2016.
Since the Youth Council camping event is scheduled for June 4, which conflicts with other events involving re-enactors, and is very close to our other commitments of being ready to open Memorial Day and our Path Through History event June 18, it was decided not to collaborate with the Youth Council on a Back-to-Basics day at this time.
Nancy suggested our programs for 2016 should be Saturday, June 18 for NYS Path Through History weekend, the quilt show on the weekend of July 16-17, and Saturday, August 13 for the final program, which she hopes will be on the Helderberg Grange.
Kathleen mentioned she is trying to create programs to help get the town ready for the bicentennial in 2022. Some thoughts she had were health and hygiene, the Underground Railroad in Knox, and a house tour. She also suggested we consider having classes on creating historic gardens and historic interior decorating, in case townspeople would like to dress up their historic home for the bicentennial. Dan suggested getting some buildings on the national register of historic places could be part of the bicentennial. Kathleen also suggested a tea in honor of the Merryman’s Tea House. Perhaps someone would like to create costumes to sell for townspeople to wear for the bicentennial. Perhaps we could sell basswood tree seedlings. We also need to work on an update to the sesquicentennial history book, and the cave group has volunteered to update their section. Nancy suggested we continue to consider how to incorporate ice harvest activity, since there seems to be a lot of interest. She also asked to seek permission from Maryellen Johnson of Guilderland Historical Society to reprint her recent ice harvest article in Knox Rural Roots next winter. Donna suggested we build a program around some of the tools in the tool room, finding someone who could explain their use, and maybe demonstrate some of them.
The Pulliam boys will present their family history as it relates to School #12 at 7:00 pm on August 2, preceding our regular meeting.
Donna suggested we hold the quilt and afghan show on Sunday, July 17 from 10 to 4, with set-up on Saturday. It was decided the entries must be quilted, crocheted or knitted in Knox, but can now be owned and exhibited by anyone. We will also accept wall hangings and smaller size handi-work this year, rather than limiting it to bed quilts. Donna will contact Kris Zimmer and Pat Lightbody about doing a quilting demonstration during the show.
Altamont Train Station quilters did not end up borrowing the quilt frame last month because they did not have enough space to display it.
Upon the arrival of the treasurer, we heard that we have $ 861.96 in the SEFCU checking account and $ 3,542.74 in the SEFCU savings account.
The only correspondence received was the Guilderland Historical Society newsletter.
Dennis will talk to Amy Anderson, manager of the Altamont Fair, about the availability of the School Building to present a program there some time in the future, featuring the Pulliam family who attended that school.
Kathleen moved and Dan seconded that we give all of the Knox Town Board members a copy of the sesquicentennial history book to help get them thinking about the upcoming bicentennial. Carried. Kathleen will work on writing an article to publicize our upcoming events and the availability of the history books as graduation gifts.
Nancy and Dan will serve as the nominating committee to recommend a slate of officers for next year.
Donna volunteered to audit the treasurer’s books and report at the May meeting, as called for in our by-laws.
Looking ahead, it was noted that the first Tuesday in November 2016 is the first, which is NOT election day, so we will have a regular meeting.
It was decided that we would continue to have the Homestead open on Wednesdays during July and August from 12 to 2 pm. We will send around a sign-up sheet for hosts and refreshments when the time is closer, and Nancy will contact the town to request the downstairs bathrooms be opened during this time.
Kathleen donated wooden maple sap collection buckets that were used in Knox. Dan moved and Bill seconded that we accession them. Carried.
Nancy volunteered to staff a Knox Historical Society table at the Kiwanis Pancake breakfast on March 20. She will display one of the wooden sap collection buckets and a more modern metal one, with the homemade spiles from our collection, and will have membership brochures available. She will also bring a laptop to show off our website and the virtual tours of the Saddlemire Homestead.
Kathleen will contact Colleen Skiff, the art teacher at BKW, to see if we can figure out a program or art show featuring student artwork connected to historical artifacts for our June 18th program.
Dennis reminded us that we have no known written agreement with the town concerning care of the Saddlemire Homestead. Nancy recommended that we talk to Mike Hammond and get into writing as much as he remembers. Dennis gave Vas a copy of the tentative agreement from 1974-1999 that may never have been implemented. We have never been able to locate a copy of a final agreement.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:39 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Frueh, Secretary
FEBRUARY 2, 2016 MINUTES
The regular meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order on February 2, 2016 by Vice-President Glenn Humphrey at 7:06 pm. Members present were Nancy Frueh, Charlene Stevens, Kathleen Putzig, Donna Gwin, Anna Wolfe, Bill Donato, Dan Driscoll, and Jenn Geckler.
Nancy read the minutes of the last meeting and they were accepted as presented.
Anna gave the treasurer’s report showing $792.96 in the SEFCU checking account and $3542.46 in the SEFCU savings account.
Anna reported that we had received an invitation to participate in the Berne Memorial Day Parade, and a schedule of events from the Bethlehem Historical Society.
Donna reported that she has been in contact with Sandra Stempel of the Berne Historical Society about their possible involvement in our quilt show. It was agreed that if we offer to include Berne residents in our show, the Berne Historical Society would have to provide man-power and security and hanging frames for their items. Kathleen and Donna will continue to be in touch with them, as they won’t have a meeting until the end of March.
Donna and Charlene asked if the Altamont Library could borrow one of our quilt frames to display the raffle quilt at their 100th anniversary gala. Donna moved and Kathleen seconded that we loan one of our quilt frames to the Train Station Quilters, at no cost, to display their quilt at the Altamont Library gala on Saturday. Carried. Donna will make arrangements to get it to them.
Old Business:
Glenn is still researching how to best clean the Bicentennial Quilt. It was agreed that if any of his consultants need to see the quilt, he would e-mail the Board of Trustees that he was taking the quilt for consultation.
Because Dennis Barber was unexpectedly absent, there was no report on the progress of scanning the original paperwork of the 1700’s house on Bozenkill Road, or progress in contacting Bob Simonson, the owner of the Ostrander Cemetery property on Bozey Hollow Road.
A volunteer is still needed to take care of the KHS Facebook page. Kathy Ouimet is not able to do it at this time. Anna reported that when she called the BKW high school principal about another matter, she was told that the request for a student to help with such things had been forwarded to the Social Studies Department. No one present knew anything about this contact. Nancy will attempt to contact the student who expressed interest in the Knox Historical Society at the Lincoln/Lindemann presentation in November. We were reminded that it would be courteous to include the Superintendent and perhaps even the School Board in our requests, so they know about our interaction with the students and staff.
Nancy has located several Teddy Roosevelt re-enactors, all of whom are out-of-state. The Old Stone Fort Museum in Schoharie has expressed a willingness to collaborate with us in trying to get a grant to pay for one of them to appear for KHS on Friday, September 30, 2016 and at their History Fair on Saturday, October 1st. Nancy will continue to research this project and talk to the school about a possible collaboration and use of their facilities, since we were maxed out size-wise with the Peter Lindemann/Lincoln program.
Anna reported that Lou Saddlemire is working on many projects, including the cemetery records, blacksmiths in the 1800’s, doctors in the 1800’s, Civil War soldiers, and Captain Hiram Cliff, a whaling captain who sailed all over the world but settled in Knox. KHS is hoping that Lou would share some of his research in written form for the Knox Rural Roots newsletter.
Nancy reported that as of this afternoon, the Miller’s Mills Ice Harvest is still scheduled for Sunday, February 14, starting at 11:00 am until the ice house is full. They use the ice for an ice cream social in the summer. Watch their Facebook page for up-to-the-minute information.
Glenn reported on our Back-to-Basics day. We are still talking to the Knox Youth Council about the possibility of collaborating with them at their Family Camping Day. It would also be a possible program for Path Through History on June 18. Glenn visited the Twin Rivers Boy Scout Council, asking if some of their senior members might do some demonstrations for us. Dan offered to demonstrate origami, the art of folding paper. He also suggested finding someone to demonstrate paper making. Glenn talked to Karen Kuck about a simple weaving demonstration. It was also suggested that Glenn contact Sue Mason about her petting zoo, pony rides, and possible 4-H involvement.
NEW BUSINESS:
Albany County History Collaborative will meet on March 12 at New Scotland Town hall from 10 to noon, hosted by the New Scotland Historical Association. Dennis and Kathleen plan to attend.
Dan has written a history of the Helderberg Kiwanis that is available at HelderberKiwanis.org. If we can’t get anything fresh from Lou, Nancy will see if she can adapt Dan’s article for the Knox Rural Roots newsletter.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Frueh, Secretary
JANUARY 5, 2016 MINUTES
The regular meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order on January 5, 2016 by President Dennis Barber at 7:02 pm. Members present were Nancy Frueh, Dan & Maureen Driscoll, Anna Wolfe, Glenn Humphrey, Mary DeFazio, Donna Gwin, and Bill Donato. Kathleen Miller Putzig was also present and joined the Society.
Nancy read the minutes of the last meeting and two corrections were made: In the paragraph reporting on the Peter Lindemann program, the last sentence was amended to read, “Dan reported that he gave a copy of the booklet “Historic Markers in the Town of Knox” to Mr. Lindemann to show him where the Knoxville Academy that he mentioned was located.”
and the paragraph reporting on School #12 was amended to read, “Dan also mentioned that Brett Pulliam’s sons are interviewing Pulliam relatives who attended the school, which is presently located on the Altamont Fairgrounds. Possibly a program could be centered on School #12 and be held in the building on the Fairgrounds. Dennis will talk to Amy Anderson, Fair Manager.”
Anna gave the Treasurer’s Report showing $807.25 in the Checking Account and $3542.16 in the Savings Account.
Our Accessionist, Donna Gwin, reported that many of the books in the School Room were never accessioned, and many of the ones that were received in the 1970’s in “excellent” condition are no longer in excellent condition. It has been our policy to allow visiting children to handle the books that are in less than pristine condition. A work day will be scheduled in the Spring to decide if any of the books should be disposed of, and to decide if any of the books need more intensive conservation efforts. The original accession records also need to be reviewed to see if we can determine which school the books were from. Many were donated by D.C. Robinson, the owner of the roller rink at Knox Cave.
Dan reminded us that the wainscoting in the school room has never been installed, and perhaps it could be done while we are working on the floor project this spring.
We have the records of the Helderberg Kiwanis Club dating back to its formation in 1959. Dan moved to accession the items, mostly archival scrapbooks put together by John Elberfeld, plus a framed Kiwanis Logo and a BKW Little League Thank You plaque. Glenn seconded it, and the motion carried. It was suggested that Dan try to develop a brief program to present at a future meeting giving an over-view of the history of the Kiwanis Club. We need to be sure to invite the Kiwanis Club when we present this program.
Dan also presented a paper entitled, The History of the Saddlemire’s 1702-2000, written by Lou Saddlemire. Dan moved to accession it, seconded by Glenn, and carried.
It was reported that Kathy Ouimet will be taking the box of Grange records from Nancy to see if she can come up with a program on the grange that was located in Township.
OLD BUSINESS:
Glenn is still working on gathering information on how to best clean the Bicentennial Quilt.
It was announced that we still have an opening on the Board of Trustees and that Jenn Geckler has declined the nomination. Dan moved and Glenn seconded that new member, Kathleen Putzig, fill the position of Trustee. Carried.
Dennis has not yet scanned any of the original paperwork of the 1700’s house on Bozenkill Road.
Dennis announced that Jayson Romanczuk has volunteered to help him install the bi-fold doors in the upstairs room.
Dennis announced that the Town Board has agreed to spend $500.00 towards the new flooring in the front room of the Saddlemire Homestead. Anna has researched prices and will arrange for delivery by early April. Bill Donato will check to see what sort of polyurethane finish is recommended for use on floors.
Nancy reported that she contacted the Cherry Valley Historical Society regarding the painting by Leila Moore Waldron. They do not have any of her paintings, and do not have any reason to believe they are of any exceptional value. Some of their members remembered her, and Nancy knew her brother, Howard Moore.
Dennis will begin contacting families to make presentations at regular meetings so a schedule can be developed and advertised.
If afghans are to be included in our summer quilt show, we would need table space to display them, since they can’t be hung in the same manner as quilts. A possible theme suggested was “Old Things That Are New Again.” Discussions with the Berne Historical Society are ongoing, since they don’t meet in the winter. To control the size of the show, the group agreed that exhibitors should still be limited to Knox residents.
Glenn announced that the Knox Youth Council may be interested in collaborating with us on a back-to-basics program. We have to be careful what activities we offer as “hands-on” opportunities, keeping in mind safety and liability issues. Glenn offered to teach members some simple crafts to demonstrate, but the group felt we need outside demonstrators, since there will be many other roles to fill and our membership is not large enough to do it alone. Glenn will report back at the next meeting with a list of suggested demonstrations and names of people who are willing to do them.
Dennis has learned the owner of the Ostrander Cemetery on Bozey Hollow Road is Bob Simonson, and we are still trying to make contact with him. Russ Pokorney would like to help with the clean-up of this cemetery.
A volunteer is still needed to take care of the KHS Facebook page. Nancy will ask Kathy Ouimet.
Nancy has contacted a re-enactor who she thinks does a Teddy Roosevelt impression, and is waiting to hear back from him.
NEW BUSINESS:
Lou Saddlemire is constantly doing research on various topics of Knox History. Through John and Jane, KHS supported the email newsletter, Knox Rural Roots. Nancy would like to try to convince Lou to share some of this research through articles in this publication. The membership supported this idea.
The membership authorized Nancy to use the KHS email list to alert people of the January 10 open house to honor outgoing supervisor, Mike Hammond, and the two retiring town councilmen.
Nancy reported that several people have suggested an ice harvest event during the Knox Bicentennial. She suggested that some people take a ride out to Miller’s Mills to view their event, scheduled for February 14, 2016, to see exactly what is involved. Bill Donato said he owns ice harvesting equipment. Nancy suggested that during the Bicentennial Year (2022), perhaps KHS could charter a bus and have the trip as a fundraiser for KHS, choosing an alternate destination in case the weather makes harvesting ice impossible.
Nancy asked if KHS would consider holding our summer programs on Saturday instead of Sunday this year, so she can be present without taking any more time off from work. The group agreed.
Glenn showed us some wooden-handled tools he is working on restoring with boiled linseed oil, rather than using modern varnish. The varnish looks pretty, but may lead to blisters when using the tools.
Dennis announced that we’ll have to decide on the hours we want to be open on Wednesdays in the summer. Last year, we were open 12 to 2 pm, and while we didn’t have a lot of visitors, it provided a dedicated time to work in the museum. The hours were chosen to coincide with the Town Clerk’s hours, so there would be access to restrooms. However, the town clerk has changed her Wednesday hours this year, so we need to decide if we want to be open 10am to noon, or if we should keep the 12 to 2 pm time slot and ask that the downstairs bathrooms be opened. Mike Nardacci and Kathy Ouimet have both expressed a willingness to help staff the Homestead on some Wednesdays during the summer. Dennis announced we will have a sign-up sheet when summer is closer.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
Nancy Frueh, Secretary
Dec. 1, 2015 MINUTES
The Dec. 1, 2015 meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order at 7:05 p.m. by President Dennis Barber. Members present included Mary DeFazio, Bill Donato, Dan and Maureen Driscoll, Jay Francis, Donna Gwin, Ray Hand, Glenn Humphrey, Howard Ohlhous, and Anna Wolfe.
The minutes of the Oct. 6 meeting were read and approved.
Anna gave the Treasurer’s report. Three new members joined in October. KHS has $823.25 in the SEFCU checking account and $3,541.57 in the SEFCU savings account. Anna was reimbursed $25 for the purchase of Peter Lindemann’s book A Crooked Gun: The Civil War Dead of Schoharie County. Donna gave Anna $7 received from visitors to the Saddlemire Homestead during the HHA Farms and Artisans Tour in September. Donna submitted a bill for $34.29 for the purchase of 3 copies of the book Henry and the Cannons, the story displayed on the StoryWalk in the Knox Town Park from August through November.
Donna displayed items donated by Margaret Torok: 7 chapter books, the genealogy of the Meigs/Ogden Families, Sanitary Laws and Regulations of the Town of Knox 1885, and news items about town officials. A photograph of V.B. Wolford and wife and a framed marriage certificate, received by John Elberfeld, were also displayed. Glenn made motions to accession all of the items, and Jay seconded the motions. The motions passed. The binders in the Homestead can be used for the genealogies that we are collecting. The photograph will be placed in a file cabinet in the Homestead. The framed certificate will be placed in the storage area in the Town Hall basement.
Dennis mentioned that additional shelving is needed in the School Room.
Glenn checked with Train Station quilters to see if anyone had a suggestion about cleaning the Bicentennial Quilt. Glenn was referred to other people and he will check with them. The quilt is not damaged but it could use a cleaning.
A trustee is still needed for KHS. Glenn will ask Jenn Geckler if she is interested in filling the position.
Dave Shafer removed the carpet in the front room of the Saddlemire Homestead, sanded the floor, and nailed loose boards at no cost to the KHS. A thank you note should be sent to Dave. Ray, Dan, Dennis, Amy Pokorny, and Mike Hammond looked at the floor and decided that 8”-10” pine boards will be the best option for the front room. At the December Town Board meeting, the Board will vote to allocate up to $500 to cover the cost of the wood flooring. The cost of installation, sanding, and poly-urethaning will have to be covered by KHS and the labor will be done by KHS members. Anna is checking with vendors for the price of premium pine boards and the cost of renting sanders. Square cut nails were used on the boards in the Reading Room. The boards in the front room will be installed in a similar fashion.
Peter Lindemann gave a very well-received presentation on November 17, re-enacting President Lincoln and speaking about the role of Schoharie residents during the Civil War. About 40 people attended. Glenn remarked that re-enactors usually draw a good crowd. Inviting the BKW history teachers increased the attendance for Lindemann’s presentation. Mr. Lindemann does other personas, something to keep in mind for future programs. Dan reported that he gave a copy of the booklet “Historic Markers in the Town of Knox” to Mr. Lindemann to show him where the Knoxville Academy that he mentioned was located.
Dennis found the gavel and base made from wood from the old Plank Road. These items were donated to KHS by the Plankroaders in 2001. Howard Ohlhous of the Duanesburg Historical Society took photos of the gavel and base for the KHS website.
Dennis reported that the Town Highway Department planted 2 basswood trees near the Saddlemire Homestead.
Dennis has been in contact with the historical societies in Berne, Westerlo, and Rensselaerville.
Dennis will contact Jim Spencer, owner of the 1700’s stone house on Bozenkill Road, and will get the original paperwork on the property scanned.
The possibility of a Quilt Show in the summer of 2016 was discussed. Past quilt shows focused on quilts made at the Knox Reformed Church and modern day quilts made by Knox residents. Glenn asked about including knitted and crocheted afghans in the show. Possibly the Berne Historical Society would like to have a quilt show as they did in 2014. Charlene Stevens emailed Dennis saying she would be happy to help with a quilt show if we decide to have one this summer. Marie Viscio has offered her help. Discussion will continue at future meetings.
The Homestead was open every Wednesday from 12-2 p.m. this past June, July, and August. We didn’t have many visitors but it provided a time slot for working in the Homestead. John Elberfeld and Jane McLean painted the kitchen, installed new shelving, added display items, and made the kitchen area much more appealing. For summer 2016 we can have a sign-up sheet for KHS members to open the Homestead to the public.
Dennis mentioned that work should be done this winter to obtain a permanent charter for KHS.
Dennis reported that BKW HS history teacher, Mr. Bentley, suggested having a Living history program centered on the Revolutionary War or Colonial Living or a program centered on Theodore or Franklin Roosevelt.
Glenn suggested having a “Nature’s Classroom: Back to Basics” program. People with skills such as using an atlatl spear throwing, cooking in a colonial or reflector oven, making ink, making toys, storytelling, etc. would be recruited to demonstrate their skill at stations. Participants rotate through the stations, observing and then trying their hand at the skill. It would be necessary to find people with skills willing to participate. Maureen suggested Nancy Payne, storyteller, and Mike Tarbell who makes atlatls. Glenn suggested using the Town Park pavilion and involving the Scouts. Glenn will begin working on recruiting people with skills.
Dennis said that programs that highlight families in the Town are always popular. Families such as the Gaiges or Ostranders could be considered for future presentations. We should try to get more family genealogies.
Dan mentioned that Paula Shafer’s interview with her father, Ray Shafer, appeared in the Altamont Enterprise. A program centered on the Shafer Family would be interesting.
Dan also mentioned that Brett Pulliam’s sons are interviewing Pulliam relatives who attended the school, which is presently located on the Altamont Fairgrounds. Possibly a program could be centered on School #12 and be held in the building on the Fairgrounds. Dennis will talk to Amy Anderson, Fair Manager.
Glenn suggested having a potluck dinner on the same day of a program in the summer to attract new members.
Bill Donato spoke about his work restoring the Dunnsville Cemetery, a small cemetery on Rt. 20 near Dunnsville Road in Guilderland. Bill repaired the wrought-iron fence, cleaned up the stones and sent the information he gathered from the stones to the online services of New York Gravestones and Find a Grave. Dan mentioned that cemeteries on Quay Road, Knox-Gallupville Road, and the Elsass Cemetery have recently been cleaned-up and repaired. The Ostrander Cemetery, on Bozey Hollow Road, is another small family cemetery now in need of clean-up and repair. Dan photographed the site and Bill estimates there are about 15-20 stones. Dan will check the tax maps to see who owns the property on which the cemetery is located. Dan said it would be a good project for either a Boy Scout or the KHS to undertake.
Dennis displayed many items given to him for the Homestead by Mrs. Truax of Guilderland. An ancestor, William J. Smith, lived in Knox. Items included: discharge papers from service in the Civil War, a Civil War Medal, Mexican Border service medal, letters written to his wife during the war, a tintype of Smith in his Civil War uniform, a receipt from Mr. Church for rent payment, his blacksmith ledger, school records from Knox School House #2, and a photo of Smith and his wife in front of their Knox home. Dan made a motion to accession all of the items, Glenn seconded the motion and the motion passed. Dennis will have Mrs. Truax sign the accession agreements. Dennis said perhaps the items could be submitted for an article in the Altamont Enterprise. A newspaper clipping from the Duanesburg Review and a school book from Duanesburg were given to Howard Ohlhous.
Anna reported on correspondence she received from Ms Vrooman-Prugh asking for genealogy information. It was suggested that Anna tell Ms Vrooman-Prugh to contact Helen Quay, registrar for the Town of Knox and the New York State Department of Health, Vital Records Section.
Thom Breitenbach has slave graves and tunnels on his property and is seeking more information. Dan suggested that Mr. Breitenbach speak to Mary Liz Stewart about the Underground Railroad in this area and to check the census records. Perhaps the Stewarts could do a program about the Underground Railroad for KHS.
Anna reported that KHS has received an invitation from the Bethlehem Historical Society for a Christmas party Dec. 6 and 7, from 1-4 p.m.
Donna reported that no one presently is doing the KHS Facebook page. If anyone is interested in maintaining the page let Donna know.
The meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Donna Gwin
The regular meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order on March 1, 2016 by President Dennis Barber at 7:05 pm. Members present were Nancy Frueh, Bill Donato, Donna Gwin, Dan Driscoll, Kathleen Putzig, Ray Hand, and later, Anna Wolfe.
Nancy read the minutes of the last meeting, and hearing no corrections, they were accepted as presented.
With the unexpected absence of the treasurer, we moved on to Old and New Business.
Dennis has been trying to contact the owner of the 1700’s house on Bozenkill Road with no success. Bill will attempt to make the contact.
Bill has contacted the caretaker of the Bob Simonson place, who thinks restoring the cemetery there is a great idea, and will help us make contact with Bob Simonson, the owner, who lives in New York City (Brooklyn) and visits here about twice a month. Mr. Dean, the caretaker, will also see if there are any more records of historical value there, too. Mr. Simonson would be a good candidate for an oral history interview.
Dennis also mentioned that there is a cemetery on Gibbs Road where all the stones are laying down, which is another possible restoration project.
Nancy is still trying to contact student, Michelle Ferraino, to see if she is interested in taking care of our Facebook page. If not, Nancy will attempt to follow up with Mr. Wright or Mr. Bentley of the Social Studies department at BKW.
Nancy will also continue to talk to Mr. Bentley and the Old Stone Fort to see if we can make a Teddy Roosevelt re-enactor event happen on September 30, 2016.
Since the Youth Council camping event is scheduled for June 4, which conflicts with other events involving re-enactors, and is very close to our other commitments of being ready to open Memorial Day and our Path Through History event June 18, it was decided not to collaborate with the Youth Council on a Back-to-Basics day at this time.
Nancy suggested our programs for 2016 should be Saturday, June 18 for NYS Path Through History weekend, the quilt show on the weekend of July 16-17, and Saturday, August 13 for the final program, which she hopes will be on the Helderberg Grange.
Kathleen mentioned she is trying to create programs to help get the town ready for the bicentennial in 2022. Some thoughts she had were health and hygiene, the Underground Railroad in Knox, and a house tour. She also suggested we consider having classes on creating historic gardens and historic interior decorating, in case townspeople would like to dress up their historic home for the bicentennial. Dan suggested getting some buildings on the national register of historic places could be part of the bicentennial. Kathleen also suggested a tea in honor of the Merryman’s Tea House. Perhaps someone would like to create costumes to sell for townspeople to wear for the bicentennial. Perhaps we could sell basswood tree seedlings. We also need to work on an update to the sesquicentennial history book, and the cave group has volunteered to update their section. Nancy suggested we continue to consider how to incorporate ice harvest activity, since there seems to be a lot of interest. She also asked to seek permission from Maryellen Johnson of Guilderland Historical Society to reprint her recent ice harvest article in Knox Rural Roots next winter. Donna suggested we build a program around some of the tools in the tool room, finding someone who could explain their use, and maybe demonstrate some of them.
The Pulliam boys will present their family history as it relates to School #12 at 7:00 pm on August 2, preceding our regular meeting.
Donna suggested we hold the quilt and afghan show on Sunday, July 17 from 10 to 4, with set-up on Saturday. It was decided the entries must be quilted, crocheted or knitted in Knox, but can now be owned and exhibited by anyone. We will also accept wall hangings and smaller size handi-work this year, rather than limiting it to bed quilts. Donna will contact Kris Zimmer and Pat Lightbody about doing a quilting demonstration during the show.
Altamont Train Station quilters did not end up borrowing the quilt frame last month because they did not have enough space to display it.
Upon the arrival of the treasurer, we heard that we have $ 861.96 in the SEFCU checking account and $ 3,542.74 in the SEFCU savings account.
The only correspondence received was the Guilderland Historical Society newsletter.
Dennis will talk to Amy Anderson, manager of the Altamont Fair, about the availability of the School Building to present a program there some time in the future, featuring the Pulliam family who attended that school.
Kathleen moved and Dan seconded that we give all of the Knox Town Board members a copy of the sesquicentennial history book to help get them thinking about the upcoming bicentennial. Carried. Kathleen will work on writing an article to publicize our upcoming events and the availability of the history books as graduation gifts.
Nancy and Dan will serve as the nominating committee to recommend a slate of officers for next year.
Donna volunteered to audit the treasurer’s books and report at the May meeting, as called for in our by-laws.
Looking ahead, it was noted that the first Tuesday in November 2016 is the first, which is NOT election day, so we will have a regular meeting.
It was decided that we would continue to have the Homestead open on Wednesdays during July and August from 12 to 2 pm. We will send around a sign-up sheet for hosts and refreshments when the time is closer, and Nancy will contact the town to request the downstairs bathrooms be opened during this time.
Kathleen donated wooden maple sap collection buckets that were used in Knox. Dan moved and Bill seconded that we accession them. Carried.
Nancy volunteered to staff a Knox Historical Society table at the Kiwanis Pancake breakfast on March 20. She will display one of the wooden sap collection buckets and a more modern metal one, with the homemade spiles from our collection, and will have membership brochures available. She will also bring a laptop to show off our website and the virtual tours of the Saddlemire Homestead.
Kathleen will contact Colleen Skiff, the art teacher at BKW, to see if we can figure out a program or art show featuring student artwork connected to historical artifacts for our June 18th program.
Dennis reminded us that we have no known written agreement with the town concerning care of the Saddlemire Homestead. Nancy recommended that we talk to Mike Hammond and get into writing as much as he remembers. Dennis gave Vas a copy of the tentative agreement from 1974-1999 that may never have been implemented. We have never been able to locate a copy of a final agreement.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:39 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Frueh, Secretary
FEBRUARY 2, 2016 MINUTES
The regular meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order on February 2, 2016 by Vice-President Glenn Humphrey at 7:06 pm. Members present were Nancy Frueh, Charlene Stevens, Kathleen Putzig, Donna Gwin, Anna Wolfe, Bill Donato, Dan Driscoll, and Jenn Geckler.
Nancy read the minutes of the last meeting and they were accepted as presented.
Anna gave the treasurer’s report showing $792.96 in the SEFCU checking account and $3542.46 in the SEFCU savings account.
Anna reported that we had received an invitation to participate in the Berne Memorial Day Parade, and a schedule of events from the Bethlehem Historical Society.
Donna reported that she has been in contact with Sandra Stempel of the Berne Historical Society about their possible involvement in our quilt show. It was agreed that if we offer to include Berne residents in our show, the Berne Historical Society would have to provide man-power and security and hanging frames for their items. Kathleen and Donna will continue to be in touch with them, as they won’t have a meeting until the end of March.
Donna and Charlene asked if the Altamont Library could borrow one of our quilt frames to display the raffle quilt at their 100th anniversary gala. Donna moved and Kathleen seconded that we loan one of our quilt frames to the Train Station Quilters, at no cost, to display their quilt at the Altamont Library gala on Saturday. Carried. Donna will make arrangements to get it to them.
Old Business:
Glenn is still researching how to best clean the Bicentennial Quilt. It was agreed that if any of his consultants need to see the quilt, he would e-mail the Board of Trustees that he was taking the quilt for consultation.
Because Dennis Barber was unexpectedly absent, there was no report on the progress of scanning the original paperwork of the 1700’s house on Bozenkill Road, or progress in contacting Bob Simonson, the owner of the Ostrander Cemetery property on Bozey Hollow Road.
A volunteer is still needed to take care of the KHS Facebook page. Kathy Ouimet is not able to do it at this time. Anna reported that when she called the BKW high school principal about another matter, she was told that the request for a student to help with such things had been forwarded to the Social Studies Department. No one present knew anything about this contact. Nancy will attempt to contact the student who expressed interest in the Knox Historical Society at the Lincoln/Lindemann presentation in November. We were reminded that it would be courteous to include the Superintendent and perhaps even the School Board in our requests, so they know about our interaction with the students and staff.
Nancy has located several Teddy Roosevelt re-enactors, all of whom are out-of-state. The Old Stone Fort Museum in Schoharie has expressed a willingness to collaborate with us in trying to get a grant to pay for one of them to appear for KHS on Friday, September 30, 2016 and at their History Fair on Saturday, October 1st. Nancy will continue to research this project and talk to the school about a possible collaboration and use of their facilities, since we were maxed out size-wise with the Peter Lindemann/Lincoln program.
Anna reported that Lou Saddlemire is working on many projects, including the cemetery records, blacksmiths in the 1800’s, doctors in the 1800’s, Civil War soldiers, and Captain Hiram Cliff, a whaling captain who sailed all over the world but settled in Knox. KHS is hoping that Lou would share some of his research in written form for the Knox Rural Roots newsletter.
Nancy reported that as of this afternoon, the Miller’s Mills Ice Harvest is still scheduled for Sunday, February 14, starting at 11:00 am until the ice house is full. They use the ice for an ice cream social in the summer. Watch their Facebook page for up-to-the-minute information.
Glenn reported on our Back-to-Basics day. We are still talking to the Knox Youth Council about the possibility of collaborating with them at their Family Camping Day. It would also be a possible program for Path Through History on June 18. Glenn visited the Twin Rivers Boy Scout Council, asking if some of their senior members might do some demonstrations for us. Dan offered to demonstrate origami, the art of folding paper. He also suggested finding someone to demonstrate paper making. Glenn talked to Karen Kuck about a simple weaving demonstration. It was also suggested that Glenn contact Sue Mason about her petting zoo, pony rides, and possible 4-H involvement.
NEW BUSINESS:
Albany County History Collaborative will meet on March 12 at New Scotland Town hall from 10 to noon, hosted by the New Scotland Historical Association. Dennis and Kathleen plan to attend.
Dan has written a history of the Helderberg Kiwanis that is available at HelderberKiwanis.org. If we can’t get anything fresh from Lou, Nancy will see if she can adapt Dan’s article for the Knox Rural Roots newsletter.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Frueh, Secretary
JANUARY 5, 2016 MINUTES
The regular meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order on January 5, 2016 by President Dennis Barber at 7:02 pm. Members present were Nancy Frueh, Dan & Maureen Driscoll, Anna Wolfe, Glenn Humphrey, Mary DeFazio, Donna Gwin, and Bill Donato. Kathleen Miller Putzig was also present and joined the Society.
Nancy read the minutes of the last meeting and two corrections were made: In the paragraph reporting on the Peter Lindemann program, the last sentence was amended to read, “Dan reported that he gave a copy of the booklet “Historic Markers in the Town of Knox” to Mr. Lindemann to show him where the Knoxville Academy that he mentioned was located.”
and the paragraph reporting on School #12 was amended to read, “Dan also mentioned that Brett Pulliam’s sons are interviewing Pulliam relatives who attended the school, which is presently located on the Altamont Fairgrounds. Possibly a program could be centered on School #12 and be held in the building on the Fairgrounds. Dennis will talk to Amy Anderson, Fair Manager.”
Anna gave the Treasurer’s Report showing $807.25 in the Checking Account and $3542.16 in the Savings Account.
Our Accessionist, Donna Gwin, reported that many of the books in the School Room were never accessioned, and many of the ones that were received in the 1970’s in “excellent” condition are no longer in excellent condition. It has been our policy to allow visiting children to handle the books that are in less than pristine condition. A work day will be scheduled in the Spring to decide if any of the books should be disposed of, and to decide if any of the books need more intensive conservation efforts. The original accession records also need to be reviewed to see if we can determine which school the books were from. Many were donated by D.C. Robinson, the owner of the roller rink at Knox Cave.
Dan reminded us that the wainscoting in the school room has never been installed, and perhaps it could be done while we are working on the floor project this spring.
We have the records of the Helderberg Kiwanis Club dating back to its formation in 1959. Dan moved to accession the items, mostly archival scrapbooks put together by John Elberfeld, plus a framed Kiwanis Logo and a BKW Little League Thank You plaque. Glenn seconded it, and the motion carried. It was suggested that Dan try to develop a brief program to present at a future meeting giving an over-view of the history of the Kiwanis Club. We need to be sure to invite the Kiwanis Club when we present this program.
Dan also presented a paper entitled, The History of the Saddlemire’s 1702-2000, written by Lou Saddlemire. Dan moved to accession it, seconded by Glenn, and carried.
It was reported that Kathy Ouimet will be taking the box of Grange records from Nancy to see if she can come up with a program on the grange that was located in Township.
OLD BUSINESS:
Glenn is still working on gathering information on how to best clean the Bicentennial Quilt.
It was announced that we still have an opening on the Board of Trustees and that Jenn Geckler has declined the nomination. Dan moved and Glenn seconded that new member, Kathleen Putzig, fill the position of Trustee. Carried.
Dennis has not yet scanned any of the original paperwork of the 1700’s house on Bozenkill Road.
Dennis announced that Jayson Romanczuk has volunteered to help him install the bi-fold doors in the upstairs room.
Dennis announced that the Town Board has agreed to spend $500.00 towards the new flooring in the front room of the Saddlemire Homestead. Anna has researched prices and will arrange for delivery by early April. Bill Donato will check to see what sort of polyurethane finish is recommended for use on floors.
Nancy reported that she contacted the Cherry Valley Historical Society regarding the painting by Leila Moore Waldron. They do not have any of her paintings, and do not have any reason to believe they are of any exceptional value. Some of their members remembered her, and Nancy knew her brother, Howard Moore.
Dennis will begin contacting families to make presentations at regular meetings so a schedule can be developed and advertised.
If afghans are to be included in our summer quilt show, we would need table space to display them, since they can’t be hung in the same manner as quilts. A possible theme suggested was “Old Things That Are New Again.” Discussions with the Berne Historical Society are ongoing, since they don’t meet in the winter. To control the size of the show, the group agreed that exhibitors should still be limited to Knox residents.
Glenn announced that the Knox Youth Council may be interested in collaborating with us on a back-to-basics program. We have to be careful what activities we offer as “hands-on” opportunities, keeping in mind safety and liability issues. Glenn offered to teach members some simple crafts to demonstrate, but the group felt we need outside demonstrators, since there will be many other roles to fill and our membership is not large enough to do it alone. Glenn will report back at the next meeting with a list of suggested demonstrations and names of people who are willing to do them.
Dennis has learned the owner of the Ostrander Cemetery on Bozey Hollow Road is Bob Simonson, and we are still trying to make contact with him. Russ Pokorney would like to help with the clean-up of this cemetery.
A volunteer is still needed to take care of the KHS Facebook page. Nancy will ask Kathy Ouimet.
Nancy has contacted a re-enactor who she thinks does a Teddy Roosevelt impression, and is waiting to hear back from him.
NEW BUSINESS:
Lou Saddlemire is constantly doing research on various topics of Knox History. Through John and Jane, KHS supported the email newsletter, Knox Rural Roots. Nancy would like to try to convince Lou to share some of this research through articles in this publication. The membership supported this idea.
The membership authorized Nancy to use the KHS email list to alert people of the January 10 open house to honor outgoing supervisor, Mike Hammond, and the two retiring town councilmen.
Nancy reported that several people have suggested an ice harvest event during the Knox Bicentennial. She suggested that some people take a ride out to Miller’s Mills to view their event, scheduled for February 14, 2016, to see exactly what is involved. Bill Donato said he owns ice harvesting equipment. Nancy suggested that during the Bicentennial Year (2022), perhaps KHS could charter a bus and have the trip as a fundraiser for KHS, choosing an alternate destination in case the weather makes harvesting ice impossible.
Nancy asked if KHS would consider holding our summer programs on Saturday instead of Sunday this year, so she can be present without taking any more time off from work. The group agreed.
Glenn showed us some wooden-handled tools he is working on restoring with boiled linseed oil, rather than using modern varnish. The varnish looks pretty, but may lead to blisters when using the tools.
Dennis announced that we’ll have to decide on the hours we want to be open on Wednesdays in the summer. Last year, we were open 12 to 2 pm, and while we didn’t have a lot of visitors, it provided a dedicated time to work in the museum. The hours were chosen to coincide with the Town Clerk’s hours, so there would be access to restrooms. However, the town clerk has changed her Wednesday hours this year, so we need to decide if we want to be open 10am to noon, or if we should keep the 12 to 2 pm time slot and ask that the downstairs bathrooms be opened. Mike Nardacci and Kathy Ouimet have both expressed a willingness to help staff the Homestead on some Wednesdays during the summer. Dennis announced we will have a sign-up sheet when summer is closer.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
Nancy Frueh, Secretary
Dec. 1, 2015 MINUTES
The Dec. 1, 2015 meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order at 7:05 p.m. by President Dennis Barber. Members present included Mary DeFazio, Bill Donato, Dan and Maureen Driscoll, Jay Francis, Donna Gwin, Ray Hand, Glenn Humphrey, Howard Ohlhous, and Anna Wolfe.
The minutes of the Oct. 6 meeting were read and approved.
Anna gave the Treasurer’s report. Three new members joined in October. KHS has $823.25 in the SEFCU checking account and $3,541.57 in the SEFCU savings account. Anna was reimbursed $25 for the purchase of Peter Lindemann’s book A Crooked Gun: The Civil War Dead of Schoharie County. Donna gave Anna $7 received from visitors to the Saddlemire Homestead during the HHA Farms and Artisans Tour in September. Donna submitted a bill for $34.29 for the purchase of 3 copies of the book Henry and the Cannons, the story displayed on the StoryWalk in the Knox Town Park from August through November.
Donna displayed items donated by Margaret Torok: 7 chapter books, the genealogy of the Meigs/Ogden Families, Sanitary Laws and Regulations of the Town of Knox 1885, and news items about town officials. A photograph of V.B. Wolford and wife and a framed marriage certificate, received by John Elberfeld, were also displayed. Glenn made motions to accession all of the items, and Jay seconded the motions. The motions passed. The binders in the Homestead can be used for the genealogies that we are collecting. The photograph will be placed in a file cabinet in the Homestead. The framed certificate will be placed in the storage area in the Town Hall basement.
Dennis mentioned that additional shelving is needed in the School Room.
Glenn checked with Train Station quilters to see if anyone had a suggestion about cleaning the Bicentennial Quilt. Glenn was referred to other people and he will check with them. The quilt is not damaged but it could use a cleaning.
A trustee is still needed for KHS. Glenn will ask Jenn Geckler if she is interested in filling the position.
Dave Shafer removed the carpet in the front room of the Saddlemire Homestead, sanded the floor, and nailed loose boards at no cost to the KHS. A thank you note should be sent to Dave. Ray, Dan, Dennis, Amy Pokorny, and Mike Hammond looked at the floor and decided that 8”-10” pine boards will be the best option for the front room. At the December Town Board meeting, the Board will vote to allocate up to $500 to cover the cost of the wood flooring. The cost of installation, sanding, and poly-urethaning will have to be covered by KHS and the labor will be done by KHS members. Anna is checking with vendors for the price of premium pine boards and the cost of renting sanders. Square cut nails were used on the boards in the Reading Room. The boards in the front room will be installed in a similar fashion.
Peter Lindemann gave a very well-received presentation on November 17, re-enacting President Lincoln and speaking about the role of Schoharie residents during the Civil War. About 40 people attended. Glenn remarked that re-enactors usually draw a good crowd. Inviting the BKW history teachers increased the attendance for Lindemann’s presentation. Mr. Lindemann does other personas, something to keep in mind for future programs. Dan reported that he gave a copy of the booklet “Historic Markers in the Town of Knox” to Mr. Lindemann to show him where the Knoxville Academy that he mentioned was located.
Dennis found the gavel and base made from wood from the old Plank Road. These items were donated to KHS by the Plankroaders in 2001. Howard Ohlhous of the Duanesburg Historical Society took photos of the gavel and base for the KHS website.
Dennis reported that the Town Highway Department planted 2 basswood trees near the Saddlemire Homestead.
Dennis has been in contact with the historical societies in Berne, Westerlo, and Rensselaerville.
Dennis will contact Jim Spencer, owner of the 1700’s stone house on Bozenkill Road, and will get the original paperwork on the property scanned.
The possibility of a Quilt Show in the summer of 2016 was discussed. Past quilt shows focused on quilts made at the Knox Reformed Church and modern day quilts made by Knox residents. Glenn asked about including knitted and crocheted afghans in the show. Possibly the Berne Historical Society would like to have a quilt show as they did in 2014. Charlene Stevens emailed Dennis saying she would be happy to help with a quilt show if we decide to have one this summer. Marie Viscio has offered her help. Discussion will continue at future meetings.
The Homestead was open every Wednesday from 12-2 p.m. this past June, July, and August. We didn’t have many visitors but it provided a time slot for working in the Homestead. John Elberfeld and Jane McLean painted the kitchen, installed new shelving, added display items, and made the kitchen area much more appealing. For summer 2016 we can have a sign-up sheet for KHS members to open the Homestead to the public.
Dennis mentioned that work should be done this winter to obtain a permanent charter for KHS.
Dennis reported that BKW HS history teacher, Mr. Bentley, suggested having a Living history program centered on the Revolutionary War or Colonial Living or a program centered on Theodore or Franklin Roosevelt.
Glenn suggested having a “Nature’s Classroom: Back to Basics” program. People with skills such as using an atlatl spear throwing, cooking in a colonial or reflector oven, making ink, making toys, storytelling, etc. would be recruited to demonstrate their skill at stations. Participants rotate through the stations, observing and then trying their hand at the skill. It would be necessary to find people with skills willing to participate. Maureen suggested Nancy Payne, storyteller, and Mike Tarbell who makes atlatls. Glenn suggested using the Town Park pavilion and involving the Scouts. Glenn will begin working on recruiting people with skills.
Dennis said that programs that highlight families in the Town are always popular. Families such as the Gaiges or Ostranders could be considered for future presentations. We should try to get more family genealogies.
Dan mentioned that Paula Shafer’s interview with her father, Ray Shafer, appeared in the Altamont Enterprise. A program centered on the Shafer Family would be interesting.
Dan also mentioned that Brett Pulliam’s sons are interviewing Pulliam relatives who attended the school, which is presently located on the Altamont Fairgrounds. Possibly a program could be centered on School #12 and be held in the building on the Fairgrounds. Dennis will talk to Amy Anderson, Fair Manager.
Glenn suggested having a potluck dinner on the same day of a program in the summer to attract new members.
Bill Donato spoke about his work restoring the Dunnsville Cemetery, a small cemetery on Rt. 20 near Dunnsville Road in Guilderland. Bill repaired the wrought-iron fence, cleaned up the stones and sent the information he gathered from the stones to the online services of New York Gravestones and Find a Grave. Dan mentioned that cemeteries on Quay Road, Knox-Gallupville Road, and the Elsass Cemetery have recently been cleaned-up and repaired. The Ostrander Cemetery, on Bozey Hollow Road, is another small family cemetery now in need of clean-up and repair. Dan photographed the site and Bill estimates there are about 15-20 stones. Dan will check the tax maps to see who owns the property on which the cemetery is located. Dan said it would be a good project for either a Boy Scout or the KHS to undertake.
Dennis displayed many items given to him for the Homestead by Mrs. Truax of Guilderland. An ancestor, William J. Smith, lived in Knox. Items included: discharge papers from service in the Civil War, a Civil War Medal, Mexican Border service medal, letters written to his wife during the war, a tintype of Smith in his Civil War uniform, a receipt from Mr. Church for rent payment, his blacksmith ledger, school records from Knox School House #2, and a photo of Smith and his wife in front of their Knox home. Dan made a motion to accession all of the items, Glenn seconded the motion and the motion passed. Dennis will have Mrs. Truax sign the accession agreements. Dennis said perhaps the items could be submitted for an article in the Altamont Enterprise. A newspaper clipping from the Duanesburg Review and a school book from Duanesburg were given to Howard Ohlhous.
Anna reported on correspondence she received from Ms Vrooman-Prugh asking for genealogy information. It was suggested that Anna tell Ms Vrooman-Prugh to contact Helen Quay, registrar for the Town of Knox and the New York State Department of Health, Vital Records Section.
Thom Breitenbach has slave graves and tunnels on his property and is seeking more information. Dan suggested that Mr. Breitenbach speak to Mary Liz Stewart about the Underground Railroad in this area and to check the census records. Perhaps the Stewarts could do a program about the Underground Railroad for KHS.
Anna reported that KHS has received an invitation from the Bethlehem Historical Society for a Christmas party Dec. 6 and 7, from 1-4 p.m.
Donna reported that no one presently is doing the KHS Facebook page. If anyone is interested in maintaining the page let Donna know.
The meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Donna Gwin
Oct. 6, 2015 Minutes
The regular meeting of the Knox Historical Society was called to order on October 6, 2015 by President Dennis Barber at 7:10 pm. Members present were Nancy Frueh, John Elberfeld, Jane McLean, Dan Driscoll, Anna Wolf, Freddie Dunn, Jayson Romanczuk, and Jenn Geckler. Visitors present were Bill Donato, Glenn Humphrey, and Mary DeFazio, all of whom became members.
The minutes of the September meeting were read and corrected: It was School #5, not 6, that was refurbished by Kiwanis. Dan moved and Dennis seconded to accept the minutes as corrected. Carried.
John gave the treasurer’s report, showing $1017.38 in the SEFCU checking account and $3541.27 in the SEFCU savings account.
Old Business:
Dennis reported that the bi-fold doors have been purchased, and are upstairs in the room, waiting to be installed. He will talk to Dave Shafer to get an estimate on the cost of installing them.
Dennis reported that the town was planning on removing the stump, and will be transplanting some basswood trees from Street Road to the museum grounds.
Dan spoke to Brett Pulliam about school #12. Brett’s sons are developing questions to pose to Val Pulliam and the other people who went to school there. Dan will urge them to think about an historic marker for that site. Dennis also spoke with Chuck Vinehout, whose family also attended school there. Chuck’s grandmother used to go down every day to start the fire at the school. Charlene is still working on getting information from Betty Spadaro about her experiences at this school. (Note: the August 6, 2015 article in the Altamont Enterprise refers to this school as #10, but both the Beers Map and the Sesquicentennial Book state that it is #12.)
John bought the 13x19 binder and put some of the maps into it, re-hanging the photos on the wall that had been taken down when the maps were displayed. John will submit the bill to the new treasurer.
Jane will send us the name of a contact to advise us on how to clean the bicentennial quilt.
Due to her impending move out of the area, Jane had to rescind her offer to write the mini-grant application. Dan has agreed to do so, if Nancy and Dennis will meet with him to go over the purpose of the project. Nancy has still not heard anything from Christopher Templin, who we were hoping to hire as a consultant on the project.
The current plan is to get the carpet out of the front room, and then the town board wants to come look at it to better evaluate the situation. A work-bee was scheduled for October 24 at 2:00 PM to empty out the room and take down the bicentennial quilt. Glenn offered the use of a large tote to store the quilt.
Everette Rau did not know what our mystery object was.
New Business:
Dan donated a map showing the dirt remains of the Old Plank Road. He moved we accession it, John seconded the motion, and it carried. Dan suggests we install it in the same frame as the map showing the Palatine Road.
Travis Stevens donated a corn-husk doll made by his mom for the sesquicentennial. Jenn moved we accession it, Jane seconded the motion, and it carried. Jenn will get an accession form from Travis.
John donated a box of historical stuff for Donna to go through. He does not want any of it back.
Jane will give Donna the box of quilt show equipment.
Kathy Ouimet and Donna Gwin have volunteered to take over the website and Facebook responsibilities from Jane. Jane will meet with Donna and Dan to teach them how to use Weebly, and they will train Kathy when she is in the area.
President Lincoln (Peter Lindemann) will be visiting Town Hall on Tuesday, November 17 at 7:00 pm. He will recount his trip to Gettysburg of 1863 and the famous address he made there. Then Peter Lindemann will discuss the books he wrote about Civil War Veterans from Schoharie County. Many of the names are familiar names in this area. Nancy will submit an article to The Enterprise, and Dennis will talk to Mr. Galvin to be sure the Social Studies teachers at Berne-Knox-Westerlo know about our program. Glenn will bring beverages, Dennis will bring cookies, and Jenn will bring something for refreshments.
Donna asked if she should continue to maintain duplicate copies of the hand-written accession book, in addition to the electronic version. The group felt it was a good idea. It was also suggested that if there are major changes and we feel a new copy needs to be printed for the 11x17 binder, that we do so just once a year, perhaps at the beginning of the season. Dennis will talk to Donna.
The Indian Ladder painting we are considering giving to the Thacher Park Visitors’ Center was donated by Lesley Brower and was painted by Leila Moore Waldron from Cherry Valley. Nancy will contact the Cherry Valley Historical Society to see if they know anything about her, and if her paintings have any monetary value.
We received the following message from Harold Miller: “My latest book, "Berne and Knox, Some Early Families to 1787" is finally finished. It is a follow-up to my earlier book "Berne and Knox, Our German Heritage" which covers the early history of Berne and Knox through 1787. Both are available from my brother, Ralph Miller, Town of Berne Historian, 1136 Helderberg Trail, Berne, NY, 12023. The books cost $20 each if picked up at his house or $25 if they are mailed. Checks should be made to Ralph Miller with a notation as to which book you would like.”
John and Jane are moving out of the area, and so have resigned their positions in the historical society. Dennis has agreed to become the representative to the ACHC (Albany County History Collaborative).
The ACHC has experienced delays getting their website live, but if they manage to get it up in time to celebrate October as Archives Month, as planned, Nancy will submit a link to the Albany Hilltowns.com website leading to the information on Merryman’s Teahouse, as they requested.
Dennis will extend an invitation to the Berne, Westerlo, and Renssalearville historical societies to attend our December 1st meeting, just to get to know them and have a general discussion on any topics of mutual interest.
There was no interest in having a formal Christmas Party this year.
John moved that membership be half price from 7:00 pm on October 6, 2015 through April 30, 2016 when our new membership year starts. Jenn seconded the motion, and it carried. All members are urged to reach out to friends and neighbors and extend a personal invitation to join us. Membership information is on our website.
Dan spoke with Thom Breitenbach, who lives on Route 146, and has some slave graves and a tunnel on his property. He is seeking information on slaves and the Underground Railroad in the area. Nancy suggested he be put in contact with The Underground Railroad History Project.
Dan brought Chinese Chestnuts to share, since he had a bumper crop this year.
Allan Dietz wrote a book about the big 1700’s stone house on the Bozenkill. Dennis has learned that the owners have some of the original paperwork on that property, and will try to scan some of it.
Jane moved that the secretary cast one ballot to elect Anna Wolfe as treasurer. John seconded the motion, and it carried. Dennis will go with Anna to SEFCU to update the information on the bank accounts. All checks must be signed by both the president and the treasurer.
Jane moved and John seconded that the secretary cast one ballot to elect Glenn Humphrey as vice president. Carried.
Freddie Dunn will update the contact information on the 7 Town Hound calendar, showing Dennis’ contact information. Dennis thanked Freddie for all of the advertising he does for us.
The membership extends a HUGE “Thank You!” to John and Jane for all they have done for the Hilltowns and Knox Historical Society!
The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Frueh, Secretary
The minutes of the September meeting were read and corrected: It was School #5, not 6, that was refurbished by Kiwanis. Dan moved and Dennis seconded to accept the minutes as corrected. Carried.
John gave the treasurer’s report, showing $1017.38 in the SEFCU checking account and $3541.27 in the SEFCU savings account.
Old Business:
Dennis reported that the bi-fold doors have been purchased, and are upstairs in the room, waiting to be installed. He will talk to Dave Shafer to get an estimate on the cost of installing them.
Dennis reported that the town was planning on removing the stump, and will be transplanting some basswood trees from Street Road to the museum grounds.
Dan spoke to Brett Pulliam about school #12. Brett’s sons are developing questions to pose to Val Pulliam and the other people who went to school there. Dan will urge them to think about an historic marker for that site. Dennis also spoke with Chuck Vinehout, whose family also attended school there. Chuck’s grandmother used to go down every day to start the fire at the school. Charlene is still working on getting information from Betty Spadaro about her experiences at this school. (Note: the August 6, 2015 article in the Altamont Enterprise refers to this school as #10, but both the Beers Map and the Sesquicentennial Book state that it is #12.)
John bought the 13x19 binder and put some of the maps into it, re-hanging the photos on the wall that had been taken down when the maps were displayed. John will submit the bill to the new treasurer.
Jane will send us the name of a contact to advise us on how to clean the bicentennial quilt.
Due to her impending move out of the area, Jane had to rescind her offer to write the mini-grant application. Dan has agreed to do so, if Nancy and Dennis will meet with him to go over the purpose of the project. Nancy has still not heard anything from Christopher Templin, who we were hoping to hire as a consultant on the project.
The current plan is to get the carpet out of the front room, and then the town board wants to come look at it to better evaluate the situation. A work-bee was scheduled for October 24 at 2:00 PM to empty out the room and take down the bicentennial quilt. Glenn offered the use of a large tote to store the quilt.
Everette Rau did not know what our mystery object was.
New Business:
Dan donated a map showing the dirt remains of the Old Plank Road. He moved we accession it, John seconded the motion, and it carried. Dan suggests we install it in the same frame as the map showing the Palatine Road.
Travis Stevens donated a corn-husk doll made by his mom for the sesquicentennial. Jenn moved we accession it, Jane seconded the motion, and it carried. Jenn will get an accession form from Travis.
John donated a box of historical stuff for Donna to go through. He does not want any of it back.
Jane will give Donna the box of quilt show equipment.
Kathy Ouimet and Donna Gwin have volunteered to take over the website and Facebook responsibilities from Jane. Jane will meet with Donna and Dan to teach them how to use Weebly, and they will train Kathy when she is in the area.
President Lincoln (Peter Lindemann) will be visiting Town Hall on Tuesday, November 17 at 7:00 pm. He will recount his trip to Gettysburg of 1863 and the famous address he made there. Then Peter Lindemann will discuss the books he wrote about Civil War Veterans from Schoharie County. Many of the names are familiar names in this area. Nancy will submit an article to The Enterprise, and Dennis will talk to Mr. Galvin to be sure the Social Studies teachers at Berne-Knox-Westerlo know about our program. Glenn will bring beverages, Dennis will bring cookies, and Jenn will bring something for refreshments.
Donna asked if she should continue to maintain duplicate copies of the hand-written accession book, in addition to the electronic version. The group felt it was a good idea. It was also suggested that if there are major changes and we feel a new copy needs to be printed for the 11x17 binder, that we do so just once a year, perhaps at the beginning of the season. Dennis will talk to Donna.
The Indian Ladder painting we are considering giving to the Thacher Park Visitors’ Center was donated by Lesley Brower and was painted by Leila Moore Waldron from Cherry Valley. Nancy will contact the Cherry Valley Historical Society to see if they know anything about her, and if her paintings have any monetary value.
We received the following message from Harold Miller: “My latest book, "Berne and Knox, Some Early Families to 1787" is finally finished. It is a follow-up to my earlier book "Berne and Knox, Our German Heritage" which covers the early history of Berne and Knox through 1787. Both are available from my brother, Ralph Miller, Town of Berne Historian, 1136 Helderberg Trail, Berne, NY, 12023. The books cost $20 each if picked up at his house or $25 if they are mailed. Checks should be made to Ralph Miller with a notation as to which book you would like.”
John and Jane are moving out of the area, and so have resigned their positions in the historical society. Dennis has agreed to become the representative to the ACHC (Albany County History Collaborative).
The ACHC has experienced delays getting their website live, but if they manage to get it up in time to celebrate October as Archives Month, as planned, Nancy will submit a link to the Albany Hilltowns.com website leading to the information on Merryman’s Teahouse, as they requested.
Dennis will extend an invitation to the Berne, Westerlo, and Renssalearville historical societies to attend our December 1st meeting, just to get to know them and have a general discussion on any topics of mutual interest.
There was no interest in having a formal Christmas Party this year.
John moved that membership be half price from 7:00 pm on October 6, 2015 through April 30, 2016 when our new membership year starts. Jenn seconded the motion, and it carried. All members are urged to reach out to friends and neighbors and extend a personal invitation to join us. Membership information is on our website.
Dan spoke with Thom Breitenbach, who lives on Route 146, and has some slave graves and a tunnel on his property. He is seeking information on slaves and the Underground Railroad in the area. Nancy suggested he be put in contact with The Underground Railroad History Project.
Dan brought Chinese Chestnuts to share, since he had a bumper crop this year.
Allan Dietz wrote a book about the big 1700’s stone house on the Bozenkill. Dennis has learned that the owners have some of the original paperwork on that property, and will try to scan some of it.
Jane moved that the secretary cast one ballot to elect Anna Wolfe as treasurer. John seconded the motion, and it carried. Dennis will go with Anna to SEFCU to update the information on the bank accounts. All checks must be signed by both the president and the treasurer.
Jane moved and John seconded that the secretary cast one ballot to elect Glenn Humphrey as vice president. Carried.
Freddie Dunn will update the contact information on the 7 Town Hound calendar, showing Dennis’ contact information. Dennis thanked Freddie for all of the advertising he does for us.
The membership extends a HUGE “Thank You!” to John and Jane for all they have done for the Hilltowns and Knox Historical Society!
The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Frueh, Secretary
