Educational programs are integral parts of Onondaga Historical Association’s mission. We offer a number of programs that were created especially by OHA’s Education Department. All programs last between 45-90 minutes, and can be scheduled to take place either at an OHA facility or off-site. Click the titles below to learn more about each program. Program fees $200-$500 per performance, with a discount for nonprofits. Events held outside of Onondaga County will incur an additional mileage charge. To book a program or discuss specific pricing, contact OHA’s Education Specialist Scott Peal at scott.peal@cnyhistory.org or 315-428-1864 x317.
Onondaga Historical Association’s programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.
Learn more about each Educational Program below!
She Said, He Said
The Stantons of Waterloo take part in an Equal Rights Convention of the mid-19th century on women’s suffrage. Meet with the radical thinkers Elizabeth Cady Stanton and her abolitionist husband, Henry Stanton (Henry conducts the meeting as it was improper for a woman to do so at the time.) Learn about the life and times of this unique couple and be ready to debate the controversy of a woman’s role in the society of the day.
Wear Me Out
Fashion Fad, Facts & Fun: Explore history and fashion from bygone days, including headwear to underwear for ladies and gentlemen from OHA’s Education Collection. The usual museum mantra is ”please do not touch,” but at our fashion happening, please touch, feel, and try on. Become Syracuse’s next top model. Our retro couture is enhanced with fashion trivia and Syracuse’s own fashion past. ,Relive the days of the Persian Terrace’s “Fashion at Luncheon” with OHA.
The Hat Show
Looking for a little something to top off your meeting, gathering or luncheon? Think about the OHA Hat Show – it may be the feather in your cap. This half hour provides a peek at trivia from Syracuse’s fashion past and hats from the OHA’s Education Dept. collection (vintage and reproductions, ladies’ and gentlemen’s hats). Modeling yesterday’s chapeau will be the perfect way to accessorize your event.
Sluices, Locks and Hoggees
Meet Syracuse’s own James Geddes who helped to survey an architectural feat in its day, the Erie Canal. Mr. Geddes will guide you through the canal’s history from its earliest conception to its busiest days. You will also be introduced to those who lived and worked on the waterway. Anecdotes and interactive activities will allow the audience to become part of the Erie Canal experience.
Tailspins
Be it around a campfire, or a fireplace, long before hi-definition, folks gathered to warm themselves and share tales of heroes and heroines, characters and creatures, and magic and monsters. Invite early settler and fur trader, Ephraim Webster to spin a tale or two of Central New York in which the audience may play a part.
Salt City Abolitionists
Syracuse was a center of abolitionism in the 19th century and was watched by the entire country. Join two of the Salt City’s crusaders for freedom, Reverend Samuel May (of the May Memorial Church) and Caroline Loguen (who with her husband, Reverend Jermaine Loguen, assisted many on their way to freedom). Learn about, and become part of, an antislavery meeting of the day.
The Danforths of Onondaga County
Meet Major Asa, his wife Hannah, and their family and friends. The Major and Hannah share the hardships faced by soldiers and their families during the Revolutionary War. Experience snippets of their rugged life in the wild west of Central New York in the late 18th century. Become privy to the trials and tribulations of one of our first families during their life in Onondaga Hollow and help them in the decisions they must make. Experience an insightful interactive adventure of early life in the wilderness for young and old.
The Local Connection
OHA’s Local Connection offers a unique way to combine world events with local history. This compilation of local topics, using primary sources from OHA’s extensive collection, relates to 11th grade history and can supplement Social Studies CORE curriculum.
You can learn more by clicking each of the items below or by emailing Scott Peal or by calling at 315-428-1864 x317
Index of 11th Grade Common Core Curriculum Local History Primary Documents From OHA
