Write a commentThe Oswego County Historical Society (OCHS) is planning a “Day Away” bus trip tour of historic sites in Seneca Falls, New York on Wednesday, July 10.
It will start in Oswego at 8 a.m. at Fort Ontario State Historic Site parking lot at 1 E. Fourth St. “Through the years the historical society has provided popular getaway tours and last year we brought that back as an option for those that enjoy local history sites,” said Justin White, OCHS board trustee. “It is a fun day to spend with friends while learning about the unique history of other communities in Central New York.”
Seneca Falls has a remarkable story to tell as the infancy of the women’s rights movement which first occurred there in 1848. “This is the same year Oswego became a city and it was a time when the population was steadily growing as were many progressive ideas about social rights, equality and diversity. Ideal connections were being made between forward-thinking women in these communities. They would eventually become known as suffragettes, together fighting for the right to vote”, added White. “This part of New York State has played an important role in the women’s rights movement history.”
Among the most well-known pioneers are Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony. Seneca Falls is the place that they first met and now have an amazing history as of one of the most famous lifelong friends. The stories of these pioneers and other notable women that made history, will be a focus of the tours. The first visit will be the Women’s Rights National Park Museum. A highlight of the tour will be a visit to the historic Wesleyan Chapel site, where the First Women’s Right Convention was held in 1848. This special moment in history sparked the movement for women’s right to vote and equality for all. A special part of the National Park complex is the home of Elizabeth Cady Stanton. This is where she lived during her time in Seneca Falls and it will be a highlight of the tour.
The bus tour will also include a visit to the National Women’s Hall of Fame. Remarkable stories of the women throughout American history are told through biographically accounts and photographs. This is one of the first organizations to recognize and celebrate the achievements of American women. The women that have been inducted into the hall of fame have made substantial influences during their lifetimes. Among the many pioneers honored is Oswego native Dr. Mary Walker.
The Seneca Falls Historical Society will be a bonus addition to the tour. Formed in 1896, it has since preserved the history of the community for more than 120 years. The society is headquartered in a lavish 23-room Queen Anne style mansion built in the late 19th century as part of the historic neighborhood of Seneca Falls. The museum includes several original period rooms and local history displays, which is reminiscent of the Richardson-Bates House.
The cost of the trip is $65.00 and includes bus rental, admission to the historic sites and a catered lunch. The bus tour is open to the public. Due to limited bus seating pre-registration with payment to OCHS is required in advance by contacting the Richardson-Bates House Museum by phone at 315-343-1342 or by email at ochs@rbhousemuseum.org.
The Oswego County Historical Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the rich history of the county. The society maintains and operates the Richardson-Bates House Museum located 135 E. Third St., a historic landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum is open to the public Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 1-5 pm, and other days by appointment. For more information call the museum during regular hours at 315-343-1342.
