Sharon Historical Society Honors Black History Month with Two Fascinating February Lectures

SHARON SPRINGS – The Sharon Historical Society continues its popular historic lecture series with two programs each month, held on the 2nd and 4th Mondays at 7 PM. All programs are offered via Zoom, and the 2nd Monday sessions are typically also held in-person at the Community Room of the Sharon Public Library.

In honor of Black History Month, the Society will present two engaging programs in February, shining a spotlight on the rich history and enduring legacy of Black New Yorkers. (Note: February programs will be held exclusively via Zoom.)

The first program, “Routes To Freedom: Upstate New York and the Underground Railroad”, will take place on February 9th. Historian and freelance writer Betsy Wilson will guide audiences through a little-known yet extraordinary chapter of American history.

“Every building, every canal town, every street in Upstate New York has a story to tell about courage and resistance,” says Wilson. “Through these stories, we see how ordinary people—fueled by faith and conviction—risked everything to help others find freedom. It’s history you can feel.”

From farmhouses to church basements, participants will explore the courageous paths to freedom forged by ordinary people and discover how iconic figures like Harriet Tubman and Jermain Wesley Loguen, alongside citizens of Syracuse who openly defied federal law, shaped this daring movement. Through vivid storytelling and real historical locations, this program brings the Underground Railroad to life as a bold, coordinated effort rooted in courage, community, and moral conviction.

The second program, “Building New York: The Black Experience from Colony to Statehood”, will be presented on February 23rd by Ron Ketelsen, historian and President of the Sharon Historical Society.

“A lot of people don’t realize just how much Black individuals shaped New York State from the very beginning,” says Ketelsen. “Their work, their fight for freedom, their communities—it’s all part of the story of New York. I want people to walk away feeling like they’ve really met the people behind the history, not just read about them in a book.”

This program uncovers the powerful, often overlooked story of how Black New Yorkers—enslaved and free—shaped New York’s cities, farms, infrastructure, and ideals of freedom. Through compelling storytelling and careful historical insight, attendees will explore untold stories of survival, resistance, and leadership that continue to shape the state today.

The Sharon Historical Society’s Lecture Series is free for members as part of their membership benefits. Non-members are encouraged to make a donation to support the lecture series, with the option to join the Society at registration.

For more information or to register, visit www.sharonhistoricalsocietyny.org/upcoming-talks-and-programs  or call (518) 860-5513.