October 17, 2009

Fulton Montgomery Community College,
Johnstown NY

The third biennial Western Frontier Symposium explores
the ways that transportation improvements changed the culture,
economy and social life in the Mohawk Valley from 1700 to 1890.
As turnpikes, canals and railroads
made it easier to move people and goods,
New York’s colonial frontier became
the central corridor into America’s midlands.

"Registration for Special Events Deadline EXTENDED
to October 13.
Last Chance to sign up.

Our keynote speaker will be Daniel Larkin,
noted author of books on railroad and canal engineering,
and editor of The Erie Canal: New York’s Gift to the Nation,
He will talk about the central role of
Mohawk Valley transportation and technologies
in shaping the New York State we know today.

Other symposium scholars will present fascinating insights into various aspects of this region’s transportation history - from native American trails and early canals, through the glory days of the Erie Canal and into the railroad age and the first bicycle craze. Learn about early roads, the businesses that served merchants and travelers, and the impact of these movements on the Palatine and Dutch settlements of the Mohawk Valley.

October 18, 2009

Talks & Tours at Sites throughout the Mohawk Valley Heritage Corridor

Spend a day at historic sites throughout the region, viewing special exhibits related to transportation history and discussing specific topics
with additional speakers in the field.
See the program of activities here.

FREE ADMISSION TO ALL PRESENTATIONS

Co-Sponsored by
Mohawk Valley Heritage Corridor Commission
and these Organizations.

Funding Provided By:
New York Council for the Humanities

 

Don’t Miss the Symposium’s
Special Companion Exhibition
at
The Arkell Museum at Canajoharie
August 20 - November 4, 2009