The Ticonderoga Historical Society has released a line-up of exhibits and programs for 2016. Principal exhibits will include a look at pivotal world events through Adirondack eyes.

Opening March 18, A Terrible Beauty addresses how Irish-Americans in Ticonderoga, the Adirondack region and New York State provided support for Irish independence and the subsequent creation of the Irish Free State. The opening will feature a program by Diane O’Connor.

In addition to the exhibit of nearly 100 loaned items relating to Irish freedom, the Historical Society will four Irish-themed movie and discussion evenings on April 15, May 20, June 3 and July 8. Movies will include “The Quiet Man,” “Michael Collins,” “The Wind that Shakes the Barley,” and “The Secret of Roan Inish.”

Herbal History of the Adirondacks opens on April 8 and looks at how Native Americans and early white settlers utilized native plants as medicinal preparations and how this has led to a contemporary herbal culture that continues to thrive today. Noted local herbalist Nancy Scarzello was the principal designer of the exhibit and will speak at the opening.

Opening on May 6 is From the Adirondacks to the Arctic, which will examine the life and accomplishments of pioneering local aviator Floyd Bennett, who piloted Admiral Byrd on his historic – and controversial 1926 flight over the North Pole. Also included in this exhibit is a broader discussion of local connections to exploration and discovery, including the USS Ticonderoga’s role in spacecraft recovery. Historical Society President Bill Dolback will present a program at the opening.

On Saturday, July 16, the community is invited to attend “Happy Birthday Hancock House,” a
1920s style picnic supper celebrating the 90th anniversary of the dedication of the building that sits at Moses Circle. Bath tub gin, flapper dresses and jazz by Hot Box Honey will highlight the evening, with a costume contest and other activities in store.

The Summer O’Fair will take place on August 13 and feature a military encampment in addition to
a celebration of Celtic music, dance and spoken word. Robert Lamb’s will speak about “WWII Battle of North Cape” on May 6.

Specific information regarding programs and events can be obtained by calling the Historical Society at (518) 585-7868, by checking Facebook or the THS Website.

The Ticonderoga Historical Society was founded in 1897 and chartered in 1909.

Photos of Floyd Bennett and the Proclamation of the Irish Republic provided.