- Schenectady County Historical Society

Threads of Liberty: Schenectady in the American Revolution

February 6, 2026 – November 14, 2027

This exhibition explores the story of Schenectady and Schenectadians during the American Revolution, weaving together different “threads” of the Revolutionary War-era.

Exhibition Details

The Menagerie: Animals in the Archives

June 27, 2026 – October 29, 2027

A hidden menagerie dwells deep within the SCHS archives: Powerful eagles, pastoral sheep, and elusive stags that adorn household objects from Schenectady's far and recent past. These animals appear on furniture and figures, on tools and toys. But they are more than mere ornaments -- for centuries, Americans have looked to the animal kingdom to represent facets of ourselves. These creatures symbolize creation, culture, creed, and everything in between. This exhibition unites SCHS’ menagerie, showcasing the myriad ways animal forms have inspired and characterized us. Come meet our menagerie, and discover the enduring mark animals have left on our region’s material culture.

Exhibition Details

Another Face of War: Enslaved and Free Blacks in the Revolution

March 4, 2026 – November 15, 2026

The Revolutionary War changed the lives of every New Yorker. For the enslaved and free Blacks living here, it opened new avenues for self-emancipation through military service. This exhibit highlights particular stories of some of those brave souls.

Exhibition Details

Many and Varied Hands: The Work and Labor of the Enslaved

March 4, 2026 – November 15, 2026

For two-hundred years enslaved Africans and their descendants were the major labor force throughout the colony of New Netherland and later New York. From sunup to sundown, they toiled in urban and rural spaces doing tasks that were essential to the growth and prosperity of the colony and its peoples. This exhibit explores the large variety of work accomplished by those held in bondage throughout their lives.

Exhibition Details

Gathering Light: Works by Marisa Benoit

September 5, 2026 – December 19, 2026

Inspired by nature, music, and personal experience, the exhibition seeks to evoke contemplation and invite viewers into visual stories that celebrate light, connection, and the enduring sense of wonder found in the human experience.

Exhibition Details

Beyond the Pines: Early Schenectady

May 3, 2025 – May 31, 2035

Explore early Schenectady: its founding, its people, and what life was like for early Schenectadians.

Exhibition Details

A New Nation: Schenectady in the Early Republic (1798-1830)

–

Schenectadians of the early Republic lived through some of the most exciting and perilous years of the nation’s history. They were part of a growing city in a new nation, which would have to shape diverse peoples, religions, and geographical spaces into a free and prosperous republic.

Exhibition Details

Farming the Valley: Three Centuries at Mabee Farm

–

This exhibition delves into the history and legacy of Mabee Farm, and showcases some of the Farm's most significant artifacts!

Exhibition Details

Crafted in Schenectady: the Building of a Community

–

Join us as we examine the evolution of Schenectady’s craft economy and reveal its critical role in the development of the Mohawk Valley and the building of our community.

Exhibition Details