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.

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.

Due to the heat advisory, this program will be held inside the air-conditioned Visitor Center.

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.

In 1861, at the start of the Civil War, Samuel Clemens (the future Mark Twain) was a member of a Confederate militia group called the Marion Rangers, and Colonel U.S. Grant (the future General Grant) was commanding a Union force pursuing the Rangers.

In spite of this history, Mark Twain would one day become the publisher of Grant’s Memoirs. However, the relationship between the two men was more than that of publisher and author. By the last years of U.S. Grant’s life, they had become close friends.

Author and Grant Cottage tour guide Steve Trimm will share the inspiring story of this unlikely friendship.

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.

Connect with Us: Stay up to date on the latest news and event details by following us on social media @grantcottage.

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.

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.

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.