Previous Programs

The Hadley-Lake Luzerne Historical Society sponsors several programs on historical topics each year. During 2023 we have had the pleasure of hosting the following topics and presenters:

Hadley Lake Luzerne Historical Society

Speaker Series 2022

Sunday, May 22, 2022, Noon - Long Horn Restaurant
Ken Tingley, Author & Editor

EYE-WITNESS TO ADIRONDACK HISTORY

With close to a half-century of award-wining news reporting, former Glens Falls Post Star News Editor Ken Tingley is renowned for his ability to decipher a story and recognize the historical context in his journalistic works. Ken will discuss highlights of covering news throughout the southern Adirondacks and the countless characters (many local) who he has covered and worked with over the years. He has just published his latest book, The Last American Editor.

Thursday, June 9, 6:30 pm - Rockwell Falls Public Library Erin McKernon, Taxidermist

TAXIDERMY TALENT, TECHNIQUES AND TRENDS

Taxidermist Erin McKernon is a recognized expert on taxidermy, and the proper preservation of a variety of animals. With a background is biology, anatomy and mammal skeletal structure systems, she will showcase the science and art of taxidermy utilized for zoological study and display. The process of preserving skins can be traced back to the beginnings of civilization and is today conducted with the utmost in respect and technique.

Wednesday, July 13, 6:30 pm - Rockwell Falls Public Library Sterling Goodspeed, Historian and Former District Attorney

SEN ROBERT KENNEDY
& FAMILY RAFTING ON
THE HUDSON RIVER

During the summer of 1967, U.S. Senator Robert Kennedy and US Interior Secretary Morris Udall journeyed with their families to our region and sought to experience the Hudson River whitewater. Long an athletic family, the Kennedys spent 4 days rafting through the upper Hudson River in what has been described as a journey filled with adventure and challenge. Mr. Goodspeed will discuss the planning, and share photos of the Robert Kennedy family on this trip, fondly remembered by many locals over a half-century later.

Wednesday August 3, 7:00 pm - Lake Luzerne Town Hall Dr. Richard Dressner, American History Professor

HOW DID LAKE LUZERNE EARN ITS NAME?

Noted Historian and American History Professor Dr Richard Dressner has conducted extensive research on Diplomat Anne-Cesar de la Luzerne, our town's namesake who is considered one of the unsung heroes of the American Revolution. As a close associate to George Washington and the Founding Fathers, de la Luzerne played a key role in in the Continental Congress once it gained independence from Britain. In the twilight of his career, he was appointed ambassador to the Court of St. James in London and was truly recognized as a citizen of the world.

Wednesday, September 14, 6:30 pm - Hadley Town Hall Marie D.A. Williams, Author, Blogger and Local Historian

THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION IN THE ADIRONDACKS

While the people of the Adirondacks tended to either be loyalists or apathetic to either side, British General Burgoyne's ventures leading his armies down from Canada quickly changed all that in 1777. In an effort to capture what we now know as New York State, Burgoyne's defeat at Saratoga followed the series of raids throughout the region to interrupt supply lines and terrorize the people of the local community These wilderness raids are the focus of Marie Williams' studies. She will reveal the gumption local populations had to defend their rights and freedoms.

Funding for our Programs is made in part by Warren County, the Town of Lake Luzerne, the Town of Hadley, and generous donations from our members, residents, and visitors.

Thank You!

Thursday, May 19, 6:30 pm - Rockwell Falls Public Library Joseph Cutshall-King, author of