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, 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.