The Online Speaker Series is back—and the 2026–2027 season is officially live. We are so excited for another season of compelling stories, fresh perspectives, and New York history you won’t want to miss. Explore the full lineup and reserve your spot today.
Remembering 9/11
Tuesday, September 8th - Via Zoom
Join us for the kickoff of a new season of our Online Speaker Series: “Remembering 9/11.”
NYS archivists will explore documents held in the New York State Archives that tell the story of the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Center, as well as the work undertaken to heal, rebuild, and restore New York City and communities across the state in the aftermath.
Together, we’ll reflect on the records that preserve this pivotal moment in New York’s history—and the stories of resilience that followed.
Rev250 New York State Freedom Train Revisited
Tuesday, October 13th - Via Zoom
As we celebrate 250 years of our country, revisit the New York State Freedom Train, which toured the state in 1949 and 1950. The Freedom Train carried 83 historic documents including the draft of the United States Constitution, the Flushing Remonstrance and the second New York State Constitution, a petition for Women’s suffrage, and the 1799 state law for the gradual abolition of enslavement. Join us as we explore these and the other documents on the train and how they can be used by parents, teachers and students.
Protecting the Coast
Tuesday, November 17th - Via Zoom
New York’s 127 miles of coastline make it the state with the 14th longest coastline. Protecting the coastlines has been considered an essential defense since the War of 1812, when New York Harbor was fortified. Join Retired Colonel Richard Comstock for a unique program that focuses on New York’s coastal defenses during World Wars I and II.
The Sing Sing Prison Museum:
200 years at Sing Sing through Oral History & NYS Archive Collections
Tuesday, December 8th - Via Zoom
The New York State Archives preserves and makes available hundreds of thousands of case files of individuals who were incarcerated in New York’s prisons, including one of the oldest state prisons in the United States, Sing Sing. Join curators from the Sing Sing prison and an archivist at the State Archives for a discussion that brings to life the stories and experiences of the incarcerated and the people responsible for operating the prison and bringing about reform for those who were under their supervision.
Democracy Ready NY
Preparing NYS Students for Civic Participation
Tuesday, January 12th - Via Zoom
Civic participation is a foundation of our democratic republic. Helping students understand their role, responsibilities and resources as engaged citizens is important in preparing them to participate as adults. Join representatives from Democracy Ready NY and the State Education Department as they discuss the tools, and resources that help develop engaged citizens.
Gristmills and Slavery
Tuesday, February 16th - Via Zoom
How can a map showing a gristmill help us to better understand enslavement and the enslaved? Join archaeologist and researcher Wendy Harris as she helps us learn to dive deeper into documents to discern what is not obvious, but that contain important and often hidden history.
Women’s History Month:
Women, Immigrants, and the Working-Class Battle in Little Falls, NY
Tuesday, March 16th - Via Zoom
Little Falls, NY, was the scene of an important convergence of communities struggling to improve their social and economic status and achieve equal rights. Join J.N. Cheney and New York State Museum Chief Curator Jennifer Lemak for an exploration of the events in Little Falls and how they are emblematic of a broader struggle for equality and justice across the country.
Rev 250 New York State Constitution
Tuesday, April 13th - Via Zoom
As New York approaches the 250th anniversary of its first state constitution, join historian Dr. Colin Williams for an in-depth exploration of the document that helped shape the state—and the nation.
Drawing on his expertise in both military and early American history, Dr. Williams brings fresh insight into how New York’s leaders forged unity in a time of crisis and laid the groundwork for state government. This program offers a compelling look at the origins of New York’s political identity and its lasting impact 250 years later.
Beyond the Gods of the Hills:
A Reassessment of Vermont's Early Years
Tuesday, May 11th - Via Zoom
For generations, our understanding of Vermont’s foundational legal battles has relied on traditional, often singular narratives. This talk discusses previously unexamined court records and transcripts housed in New York and Vermont archives to reexamine the pivotal ejectment trials of 1770 and 1771 in Albany.
When we place New York and Vermont records side by side, a beautifully complex historical picture emerges—one that moves us beyond simple narratives into a deeper appreciation of the past. By grounding our analysis in these primary sources, we can appreciate a richer, multidimensional view of the frontier legal landscape that adds vital depth to our shared history.
Play Ball! The Story of a Town and A Game
Tuesday, June 8th - Via Zoom
Ilion, located just 28 miles from Cooperstown and the National Baseball Hall of Fame, has witnessed events that helped shape America’s enduring fascination with the sport.
Author and historian Joe Collea traces baseball’s footprint in Ilion—from friendly rivalries between company-sponsored teams, including those from Remington (manufacturer of firearms and typewriters)—to the construction of local parks and fields. He also explores a later effort by five Ilion residents to erect a statue of Abner Doubleday in Cooperstown, then believed to be the inventor of baseball.
Through Ilion’s growth and challenges, baseball has remained a constant—animating the community’s hearts, minds, and ambitions. Join us to learn about Ilion’s contributions to a sport that has captivated New Yorkers and fans around the world for generations.
