Grant Cottage program & event donations help support The Friends of The Ulysses S. Grant Cottage so they may continue to preserve the story of Grant.
Upcoming events at Grant Cottage include historical re-enactors, authors and book signings, historical talks and more!
Join us for our Literary Landmark Online Book Club. From January through April participants read historical titles and discuss the reading weekly via Zoom. It’s a great way to stay engaged with other history enthusiasts through the winter months and get more out of your reading.
One thing is certain, the famed Civil War General and two-term U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant had an incredible relationship with horses during his life. From breaking unruly horses as a young child to brave equestrian feats as a soldier, to driving fast trotters in the streets of Washington DC and raising prized horses on his St. Louis farm, Grant had a powerful connection to the animals. Travel back in time to join President Grant (portrayed by Grant Cottage staff member Ben Kemp) as he shares stories of his horses that illustrate how much they influenced his life and the history of the nation. A magic lantern slideshow of Grant's horses will add depth to the presentation.
THIS PROGRAM IS FREE TO THE PUBLIC AND DOES NOT REQUIRE REGISTRATION.
Join us to celebrate the U.N.’s International Day of Peace by learning about the relationship between people and the gardens of Earth, seed preservation, Native diets and meals, natural pest control, and the importance of the Circle of Life.
Our presenter is storyteller and author Joseph (Joe) Bruchac of Greenfield Center, N.Y. The program is based on his book, Native American Gardening. The book was co-authored with Michael J. Caduto and shares stories, projects, and recipes for families. Joe’s poems, articles, and stories have appeared in over 500 publications, and he is the author of more than 170 books for adults and children. Much of his writing is drawn from his connection to the Adirondack Mountain foothills town where he grew up and his Abenaki ancestry.
This is the second program in our 2024 Grant Cottage Literary Landmark Author Series. A book signing will follow the program.
Musician Dan Berggren will be playing Civil War Era music at Grant Cottage, on Mt. McGregor. Dan Berggren’s roots are firmly in the Adirondacks where he was raised but his music has branched out across many borders. The award-winning musician and educator grew up on the land farmed by his mother's family for generations and has worked in the woods with forest rangers and survey crews. Hearing stories and songs from local friends and neighbors, Dan has developed a style that captures the spirit of the mountains.
Come for a day of fun and friendly competition on the mountain.
There will be various games and activities available for all ages to enjoy throughout the day. From croquet to sack races, have some fun while learning some history about your favorite games and trying some you’ve never tried before. The Summer Olympics may be coming to a close, but Grant Cottage Historic Site will be keeping the spirit of healthy competition going.
For those looking for a bit more serious competition you can register to PLAY in our Mt. McGregor Open cornhole tournament fundraiser. Compete for the first ever championship while helping to raise funds to improve the historic site. Register here ($20 registration): https://share.scoreholio.com/8OWADZpOkLb
Date: Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, 10:00AM-4:00PM
Location: 1000 Mt. McGregor Road, Gansevoort, NY 12831
Carol Godette will discuss Victorian-era mourning and funeral customs; how William Burke’s involvement in the embalming of President Ulysses S Grant led him to open his own funeral home; and the rich history of Burke’s role as one of four operating funeral homes in Saratoga Springs.
Grant’s funeral flowers inside Grant Cottage
In honor of Remembrance Day (Tues. 7/23) Grant’s great-great grandson Ulysses Dietz will take us on a journey through time to gain insight into Ulysses and Julia’s great love, and life on the cusp of a pivotal era of change in America’s history.
Author Carol Daggs presents her book Saratoga Soul Brandtville Blues, a visual narrative on the Daggs Family story in the upstate Saratoga Springs, New York neighborhood of Brandtville. Along with the delightful collection of historic photographs, Daggs’ decidedly abecedarian approach recounts an African-American family experience through telling a narrative. This is the first program in our 2024 Grant Cottage Literary Landmark Author Series.
Programming & Events Tent Schedule
10:30 - Music by Adirondack Song Dogs
11:30 - Juggle This Juggling Performance
12:30 - Tea Dueling Competition
1:30 - Silent Wings Raptor Show
2:30 - Juggle This Juggling Performance
Join Us to Celebrate NYS Parks' 100th Birthday!
- This is a FREE event -
Civil War Reenactors
Cannon Firing by 2nd Continental Artillery
FREE Grant Cottage open house / walk-through every 10 minutes
FREE Juggle This juggling show
FREE Pony Rides by Dreamcatcher Farm
FREE Face Painting
FREE Petting Zoo
Raptor Show by Silent Wings Raptor
Twisty Balloon Fun Balloon Artist
FREE Music by Adirondack Song Dogs
Kaleidoscope Café & Time Square Catering Food Trucks
Bubble Artist Phil Dixon
FREE Cake
Mr. Ding-A-Ling Ice Cream Truck from 11am-3pm (FREE bomb pop junior to the first 100 kids)
FREE Kids & Adult Games
FREE Scavenger Hunt
FREE entertainment under the Programming & Events Tent
Guests are also invited to wear their own historical costuming!
Lt. Col. Clarence W. Dart, famous Saratoga Springs member of the Tuskegee Airmen and decorated WWII fighter pilot was shot down twice in his 95 missions, earning two Purple Hearts. This program is presented by his son Warren Dart.
This program will be held at the Saratoga State Park offices, Saratoga admin building, in the Gideon Putnam Room. 19 Roosevelt Drive, Saratoga Springs NY 12866
Join us for The Friends of Grant Cottage Annual Meeting, followed by our first program of 2024. Learn about the many accomplishments The Friends have achieved over this past year and the exciting new endeavors in store for 2024, while enjoying music by Tom Smith.
Saratoga County Poorhouse
Saratoga County Historian Lauren Roberts presents on the Saratoga County Poorhouse, established in 1827, when the county purchased land to accommodate an Alms House for ‘the victims of misfortune’. The Poor House complex included a large-scale farm, schoolhouse, imposing brick residence, and an infirmary. In 1961, the poorhouse was demolished. Though the building no longer exists, this institution played a significant role in the care of county residents for well over a century.
An official business meeting for Members only will follow.
Step into a world of wonders celebrating the Victorian era with a retro-futuristic twist!
~ Get Ready to Immerse yourself in Victorian Splendor: Come one, come all, and embrace the enchanting era of the past and future at Fall for All @ Mt. McGregor - Home of Grant Cottage: A Victorian Sci-Fi Spectacle ~
Join us at the captivating Mt. McGregor site on Saturday, September 30th (rain date: Sunday, October 1st) from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm for a day filled with magic, history, and enchantment. Discover the grandeur of the Victorian era, infused with marvels, and experience the allure of Mt. McGregor, once the final home of Ulysses S. Grant, a 2-term President, and 6-Star General. Mark your calendars for September 30th and prepare for a day filled with wonder, history, and camaraderie among fellow enthusiasts. Together, let’s make this a journey into the heart of the Victorian era like no other!
Unveiling the Victorian Sci-Fi Marvels: Prepare to be enchanted by an array of enthralling attractions and experiences that celebrate the essence of the Victorian era:
1. TinType Photographer: Capture your timeless Victorian look with a vintage touch. Our skilled TinType photographer will create stunning photographs reminiscent of the 19th century.
2. Civil War Medical Reenactor: Witness history come alive as a skilled reenactor showcases the medical practices and equipment of the Civil War era. Discover the intriguing world of medicine during this momentous period.
3. Barnabus - Home of Grondahl’s Wizard Workshop: Enter the realm of enchantment with Barnabus - Home of Grondahl’s Wizard Workshop. Engage in spellbinding demonstrations and uncover the secrets of mystical artifacts.
4. Live Owl Encounter: Delight in the presence of majestic owls and learn about these mysterious creatures from expert handlers. A rare opportunity to get up close and personal with these feathered wonders!
5. Identify the Artifact Table: Test your knowledge and sleuthing skills at the Identify the Artifact Table. Examine intriguing historical objects and guess their purpose in the grand tapestry of the Victorian era.
6. Victorian Era Magician: Be spellbound by the mesmerizing performances of a Victorian-era magician. Prepare to be amazed as they weave magic and illusion, leaving you in awe.
7. Victorian Lawn Games: Engage in friendly competition with traditional Victorian lawn games, providing joy and laughter for all ages.
8. Food Truck: Kayla’s Kitchen will be onsite to serve up yummy food for purchase from 10am - 4pm.
9. Tea Dueling: (in the exhibition tent) a quaint Steampunk game. The rules of tea dueling are relatively simple. The duel is a contest of wills between two competitors. Each competitor is provided a cup of tea and their choice of weapon, in this case, a Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookie. Five cookies are presented face down to avoid any advantage that may or may not be conferred by the chess piece on the cookie. Once a competitor places a finger on a cookie, that cookie is considered chosen. The competitors must hold the cookie in a two-fingered hold. Any two fingers may be used. When instructed to dunk, the competitors must submerge at least 75% of the cookie in the tea for a count of five. The cookies are removed and then the duel begins. The last person to achieve a “clean Nom,” meaning that the entire cookie is consumed without it breaking or falling on the participant’s hand or body, is the winner. One elbow is allowed on the table as a steadying mechanism, but competitors may not use gravity to achieve their nom.
Special Experiences: Discover the rich history of Mt. McGregor, an enchanting location with a storied past. For a fee, explore the hidden gems of Grant Cottage, the final home of Ulysses S. Grant, a 2-term President, and 6-Star General. Additionally, embark on the captivating Hidden History Hike to uncover the secrets of this historic site, once a Victorian luxury hotel, tuberculosis clinic, children’s facility, and even a prison.
Calling all Victorian Sci-Fi Enthusiasts: Are you passionate about history and Victorian culture with a sci-fi twist? The tent is available for you to showcase your knowledge, share stories, and discuss any related topic—no charge required! Share your expertise and love for the Victorian era with a futuristic flair with the community.
Join the Spectacle: ‘Fall for All @ Mt. McGregor’ welcomes everyone to experience the magic of the Victorian era entwined with futuristic marvels. Dress up in your most exquisite Victorian attire and become part of this unforgettable extravaganza.
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GENERAL ADMISSION TO THIS EVENT IS FREE, allowing you to explore the wonders of the Victorian era. However, some special experiences, like Grant Cottage and the Hidden History Hike, are available for a fee.
Photo by Lawrence White
Connect with Us: Stay up to date on the latest news and event details by following us on social media @grantcottage.
Presenter Frank Scaturro is an author, attorney with constitutional law expertise, historian and public advocate. As a college student, he spearheaded the restoration of Grant’s Tomb in New York City’s Riverside Park and is the current president of The Grant Monument Association which is dedicated to the preservation of Grant’s Tomb. He is the author of several books including President Grant Reconsidered (1998) and The Supreme Court’s Retreat from Reconstruction (2000). Scaturro is also co-editor of Grant at 200: Reconsidering the Life and Legacy of Ulysses S. Grant (2022).
Located at: 1000 Mt. McGregor Rd, Gansevoort, NY 12831
We are thrilled to invite you and your Scouts to participate in the inaugural Scouting Day at Grant Cottage on Mt McGregor, on September 9th, 2023. Enjoy a day filled with adventure, learning, and camaraderie as Scouts of all ages come together to explore the historical significance of Grant Cottage and engage in a wide range of activities.
Storyteller and author Joseph (Joe) Bruchac of Greenfield Center, N.Y., will present this compelling program on the life of Colonel Cook. Joe’s poems, articles and stories have appeared in over 500 publications, and he is the author of more than 170 books for adults and children. Much of his writing is drawn from his connection to the Adirondack mountain foothills town where he grew up and his Abenaki ancestry.
Living historians Steve Trimm and Melissa Trombley-Prosch will interpret the life of this special couple through anecdotes and stories in celebration of their 175th wedding anniversary year.
Join the Grants on the Cottage porch as they celebrate their 34th wedding anniversary together in Gilded-Aged Saratoga.
Our presenter will be Dr. Chris Mackowski – Managing Editor of the Emerging Civil War book series and blog, Professor of communication and Jandoli School Assistant Dean at St. Bonaventure University. Mackowski is the author of nine books and co-editor of Grant at 200: Reconsidering the Life and Legacy of Ulysses S. Grant (2022).
His program is this year’s Grant Remembrance Day event and Part 1 of the Friends’ second annual Grant Cottage Literary Landmark Author Series.
A book signing will be held at the conclusion of the program.
Step back in time with magician Jim Snack, as he assumes the persona of Maxwell Treat, a fictional magician from the 1800’s. His two shows will feature conjuring, mind-reading, and sleight of hand as was performed in parlors and drawing rooms during that period. You’ll enjoy an intimate performance using common objects to recreate magic and illusions popular during the time Ulysses Grant lived.
If one name is synonymous with magic in the Capital District, that name is Jim Snack. He has performed as a professional magician for over four decades at schools, corporate events, fairs, festivals and on television. With degrees in theater and communications, Jim combines the two in his work, presenting for business, educational, healthcare and human service organizations.
Whether he is doing a motivational keynote on The Magic of Change for a national association, speaking on leadership and communication, or stressing the importance of reading to school children, Jim’s presentations are often a captivating blend of magic and message. When not performing or speaking, Jim teaches in the Communication Department at the University at Albany.
Performances at 1:00 & 3:00PM on Sunday, July 9th
Step back in time with magician Jim Snack, as he assumes the persona of Maxwell Treat, a fictional magician from the 1800’s. His two shows will feature conjuring, mind-reading, and sleight of hand as was performed in parlors and drawing rooms during that period. You’ll enjoy an intimate performance using common objects to recreate magic and illusions popular during the time Ulysses Grant lived.
If one name is synonymous with magic in the Capital District, that name is Jim Snack. He has performed as a professional magician for over four decades at schools, corporate events, fairs, festivals and on television. With degrees in theater and communications, Jim combines the two in his work, presenting for business, educational, healthcare and human service organizations.
Whether he is doing a motivational keynote on The Magic of Change for a national association, speaking on leadership and communication, or stressing the importance of reading to school children, Jim’s presentations are often a captivating blend of magic and message. When not performing or speaking, Jim teaches in the Communication Department at the University at Albany.
Performances at 1:00 & 3:00PM on Sunday, July 9th
Gates open at 9:30 am, welcoming guests to explore the stunning surroundings of Mount McGregor. Visitors are encouraged to bring their best 4-legged friends, as the outdoor areas are pet-friendly. Activities from the 1800s will engage and delight attendees of all ages. Children's games and pastimes such as croquet, hoops, marbles, and more will transport participants back in time, providing a unique and educational experience. Test your knowledge of historical objects with Guess the Artifact or capture a memory at the Dress like a Civil War Soldier photo face cutout. For those seeking adventure, a Scavenger Hunt will lead guests through the historic site, uncovering hidden treasures around the site grounds. Purchase a ticket to Tour the iconic Grant Cottage and discover the remarkable legacy of the two-term President of the United States and General who saved the Union. Advanced reservations strongly recommended to ensure your spot for this informative and inspiring Tour. While visiting, don't miss the Visitor's Center with its exhibit area, and browse the diverse collection at the Gift Shop.
Special events begin at 10:30 am, with a reading of the Declaration of Independence in front of the Cottage by the Executive and Artistic Director of Home Made Theater, Eric Rudy, reaffirming the principles upon which our great nation was founded.
At 11:30 am, the First Annual Patriotic Kazoo Band will take center stage, featuring participants from the audience. Grab a flag and kazoo while supplies last to warm up your kazoo skills for the Pups and Patriots Parade.
Join the Pups and Patriots Parade at NOON, where your four-legged companions are encouraged to participate. The Pups and Patriots Parade will wind its way around the Memorial Garden in front of Grant Cottage, showcasing patriotic attire and spreading joy throughout the festivities.
*Please note: Dogs must be on a leash while on Grant Cottage grounds.
Complimentary cupcakes and lemonade will be available, along with small flags to wave proudly. Refreshments, kazoos, and flags provided while supplies last.
For more information about Grant Cottage and to reserve your Tour please visit https://www.grantcottage.org/.
It’s well known that, during the Civil War, Ulysses S. Grant and James Longstreet fought on opposite sides. What is less well known is that, in the early 1840’s, they were cadets together at West Point, where they became close friends.
As young officers, they served together in the Mexican War. They were such close friends that Longstreet was Best Man at Grant’s wedding and Grant was Best Man at Longstreet’s. The Civil War might have turned them into bitter foes, but the truth is the day after the Confederate surrender at Appomattox, they picked up their friendship right where they had left off.
Join James Longstreet, General CSA retired (portrayed by Grant Cottage tour guide and living historian Steve Trimm) as he reminisces about his old friend U.S. “Sam” Grant.
Join us as we celebrate Juneteenth with a program presented by author Robert C. (Bob) Conner based on his biography General Gordon Granger: The Savior of Chickamauga and the Man Behind “Juneteenth” and learn the compelling story of this Civil War general’s career.
To mark this historic day, please join tour guide Steve Trimm as he portrays U.S. Grant and reflects upon the evolution of his thoughts on the subject of slavery. Grant would ultimately become our first Civil Rights President. Learn more about Grant’s moral growth on the subject, lesser-known aspects of Grant's life, and his experiences during a time of great change.
Presenter A.J. Schenkman is a New York-based writer. Since his start writing for local newspapers, he has branched out into writing for magazines, blogs, and academic journals, in both history and other subjects. Schenkman is also the town of Gardiner Historian. His book Unexpected Bravery: Women and Children of the Civil War will be available for purchase, and a book signing will be held at the conclusion of the program.
The long-time caretakers of Grant Cottage, Oliver Pendleton Clarke (O.P.) and his wife Martha Josephine Kelsey Clarke (Josie) began their life on Mount McGregor in the fall of 1889. They would spend the rest of their lives on the mountain dedicating themselves to preserving Grant Cottage and the memory of U.S. Grant’s final battle there in 1885.
Discover the allure of swishing taffeta, flouncing lace, and intricately stitched details that combined to create women’s fashion in the nineteenth century.
This virtual program is part of the ongoing In the Footsteps of Grant series featuring interviews with staff at Grant-related sites.
Join Grant Cottage online Wednesday evening’s for the Literary Landmark Book Club! Register by emailing ben@grantcottage.org
Ulysses S. Grant’ Bicentennial Birthday Gala Fundraiser by The Friends of the Ulysses S. Grant Cottage in the historic Gideon Putnam Hotel & Resort directly supports the building of an Education & Events Pavilion to increase accessibility to the Ulysses S. Grant Cottage National Historic Landmark.
Saratoga: A Series of Borderland Conflicts
Friday, October 7
(online virtual program)
Due to geography, the vista of Mount McGregor provides a unique view over the surrounding region. The historic landscape was the front line of a military and diplomatic background that witnessed six wars over 125 years. The colonial borderland was home to a diverse community of Native Americans, enslaved Africans, and Europeans of different cultural and religious backgrounds. Join Saratoga town Historian Sean Kelleher as he presents a virtual program exploring the people and places of these borderland conflicts where empires clashed, and a nation was born.
Saratoga town Historian Sean Kelleher
Battle of Rogers Rock
“I took a family member for a pre booked tour and it was magnificent. Steve was our tour guide, and it was just two of us on his tour. Many great individual stories about the Grant family and some new artifacts on display. We brought lunch and enjoyed that on the overlook, on a clear day with that spectacular view. Everyone locally needs to visit this well preserved historic site, whether for a tour, enjoy a program, or just to enjoy the property. Linger a while in the gift shop, too.”
-BennCoah, TripAdvisor May 2022
Ulysses S. Grant Cottage
1000 Mt. McGregor Rd.
Wilton, NY 12831
Mailing Address:
Ulysses S. Grant Cottage
PO Box 2294
Wilton, NY 12831
(518) 584-4353 info@grantcottage.org
The Friends of the Ulysses S. Grant Cottage is the 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which manages the daily operations & programming at Grant Cottage. Your generous support helps us keep history alive as we tell the story of Ulysses S. Grant's time on Mt. McGregor.
