President’s Message

We begin another year with continued hope for a future filled with the nostalgia of Cornwall’s history to share with our community. Now in our 8^th year, the Society remains steadfast in preserving the rich treasures of the past for the enjoyment of our citizens. The financial support of our membership and the combined energies of our volunteers, trustees, and officers have blessed us with many accomplishments through the years, and we trust these will be the inspiration for your continued support in 2007. We welcome your volunteering...a few hours of your time will have a marvelous benefit.

As we move along on our journey through the year, we hope to share with all our members the joy of being a part of the historic trek that is the Cornwall Historical Society. By volunteering your time, and coming to meetings, we ensure that this important history is not forgotten, but shared with our community.

Included with your membership renewal is the volunteer pledge. Please help by selecting the events that you can share your time and volunteer to keep the Cornwall Historical Society alive.

Sincerely,

Maryanne Rose

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Historic Milestones

The Society has a prominent role in Town & Village public events such as Memorial Day, RiverFest, Independence Day, the Fall Street Fair, the 9-11 Memorial Observance ceremonies and Veterans Day. With the approval of the 2002 Town Board, the Society conducted the fund-raising drive to bring a 9-11 memorial bench to the Town’s traffic circle. Each year since, we have organized a memorial service.

Grants to Upgrade Museum & Collections Documentation

In 2004, a $20,000 grant sponsored by State Senator Bill Larkin made it possible to begin upgrades of the museum displays, purchase a copier and laptop computer to prepare a complete inventory of the collections in the museum. Further purchases of a sound system and projector offers the Society the opportunity to bring to the community these wonderful treasures.

In 2005, a $5000 grant sponsored by State Assemblywoman Nancy Calhoun made it possible to maintain our museum and a display case at the Library.

Historical Society Museum

We request and gladly accept donations pertaining to the long history of Cornwall.

Historic House Plaques

In 2004, we provided the first of 31 house plaques identifying historic homes 50 years old and older across the Town and Village. Jane Harkinson chairs this program. She can be contacted at 534-8458 if you wish to purchase a house plaque.

Cemetery Protection

Trustee Barbara Devitt and others have created a Town law protecting older cemeteries from the ravages of development. These laws are now enacted in the Town of Cornwall.

Society Website

In 2006, we came on line with our own website: www.cornwallhistoricalsocietyny.com - look for current news and information regarding society happenings and membership news.

Junior Historians Program

In 2006, Colette Fulton and Frank Rovello initiated the Junior Historians monthly program for youngsters. The sessions have been very rewarding, acquainting young people with customs and items from the past.

Society Celebrations

Our membership has enjoyed two major social celebrations each year: an Annual Dinner and a Wine & Cheese tasting party. This year’s annual dinner will be March 24^th at Mountainville Manor between the hours of 5-9 PM, with entertainment by Johnny Jakes and dancing following dinner. Our Wine & Cheese Event is held in October at the Storm King Lodge Bed & Breakfast. Fun raffles and valuable silent auction items are held as our main fund-raiser of the year.

Meetings and Speakers

Last year we were fortunate in having very interesting speakers scheduled at our monthly meetings. Check the Cornwall Local and our website for details on monthly speakers and meeting dates.

Plans for the Future

The Historical Society is participating in the preparation of various historical anniversary events coming up. This year marks the 100^th year for the Erie Trestle. Check Bethlehem Art Gallery for beautiful art relating to this historic landmark.

Also, the 50^th Anniversary of the O&W railroad is in March. Member Lou Boselli hopes to share his love and history of this important mode of transportation.

The Hudson/Fulton/Champlain celebration will begin in 2009. Although, this seems years away, we are joining the Town, Village and State to mark this anniversary.